The Inner Workings of My Convuluted Mind

Huh.

2008-12-16T04:11:35Z

...so, apparently I won Best Angst over at sm_monthly for July.

Nifty.

Brainstorming potential Christmas (nonfandom) ideas. May or may not come into fruition in the next week or so.

no_retreat @ 2008-07-07T00:16:00

2008-07-07T04:29:51Z

Title: In Sheep’s Clothing
Author: no_retreat
Theme: If Only Hotaru's Mother Had Not Died in the Explosion
Genre: Dark
Version: Anime
Rating: PG

Chibiusa tried to dig her feet into the carpet of the Tomoes’ hallway as Kaori Night pulled her hand along. “Hotaru-chan…we were playing!” she protested.

“The girl needs to rest.” Kaori turned around and glared down at Chibiusa. “Actually,” Kaori hissed, leaning down, “It’d be better if you didn’t come back at all.”

Tears brimmed up in Chibiusa’s eyes. “But…Hotaru-chan’s…she’s my friend.”

“You tire her out,” Kaori replied. “She doesn’t need a friend like that.” Chibiusa began crying silently, this wasn’t happening.

“Kaori-san.” The housekeeper turned around and Chibiusa noticed another woman standing there. It seemed like she had appeared out of the darkness of the hallway, her long, black hair framing the frail, white body. “Who is this?” she asked.

Kaori turned her face away. “She was here visiting your daughter, Tomoe-san.”

“Oh?” The other woman smiled at Chibiusa. “I’m Hotaru’s mother. It’s very nice to meet you…?”

“Usagi,” she blurted out, and then realized what she said. “Well, my name’s Usagi, but everyone just calls me Chibiusa.”

“I see.” Hotaru’s mother smiled wider. “Thank you for being friends with Hotaru, Chibiusa-chan. You must have a very pure heart.”

Chibiusa fidgeted. “Um, yeah,” she muttered. She looked between the two women. “Um…I better get home.” She quickly bowed to Hotaru’s mother. “Thanksforlettingmecomeover!” she said, making a break for the door.

Keiko watched the girl run out the door. “Kaori-san,” she said, her voice becoming soft and low, “How is Hotaru-chan?”

“She’s tired from playing with the brat,” Kaori spat out.

“Now, now.” Keiko patted the other woman on the shoulder. “I wouldn’t judge the girl harshly.” She continued to walk down the hallway. “I’ll go check on my daughter.”

Hotaru’s room seemed to be darker than the rest of the house. Keiko closed the door to her room, while her daughter lay motionless on the floor. “I see the Mistress made a friend,” Keiko said, kneeling down and brushing her daughter’s face. “How very nice…Perhaps she’ll help you find your pure heart.”

Hotaru’s body twitched as Keiko sat beside her, forming a plan. “You did well, Hotaru-chan,” Keiko said, “Pharaoh 90 will like this girl.”

*cackle* I love twisting characters sometimes.

I'm Back (Or So She Says)

2008-07-06T05:30:38Z

It's an update! Omgyay!

Title: Tonight’s Promises
Author: no_retreat
Theme: If Only Someone Else Had had a Sibling
Genre: General, Slight Against
Version: Manga (Classic)
Rating: G

Makoto checked her watch. The minute hand hadn’t moved from the 9 in the last four seconds. She frowned, and shook her wrist impatiently.

Tonight was the night they were going to find out everything. That they were going to go to the Moon Kingdom. Makoto’s stomach, to be honest, was in knots.

She sighed again, unwrapping a piece of bread. They always had some around the house, it helped soothe her nerves before going to school. Or a test. Or after a fight. There’s a reason why it was called comfort food; Makoto knew that as a truth.

From the depths of the apartment, a door creaked open. Makoto’s head snapped towards the hallway as the light flickered on. “Miyabe?” she called out, “What’s up?”

The eleven-year old shuffled out of the doorway, clad in a long nightshirt emblazoned with anime characters. Her dark brown hair stuck up in several directions. “I couldn’t sleep, nee-chan. Are you staying up to watch ‘The Three Swordsmen?’”

“I thought that’s on Mondays,” Makoto replied, pulling off a crust of bread. She couldn’t remember when the drama aired exactly.

“Yeah, but you asked me to tape it for you.” Miyabe fidgeted, “I thought we could watch it together.”

Makoto checked her watch again. “I’m going out in a bit.” Okay, five after nine. She should leave in ten minutes to meet up with Minako and Ami. And then another twenty minutes to walk to the park-

The quiet “Nee-chan” interrupted Makoto’s thoughts again. “What?” Makoto asked.

Miyabe sat down across from Makoto, slumping in the wooden chair. “You’re always hanging out with your friends. We don’t even make dinner and watch anime anymore.”

Makoto bit her lip. That was true, but with her current lifestyle, a bit hard to do.

“It’s scary…I wake up thinking that you’re not home anymore, and I-”

“Miyabe-chan…” Makoto reached across the table and grabbed her sister’s arm. The younger girl jerked it away, and stared at Makoto. “Oh, Miyabe,” Makoto said, “I know I’ve been busy lately. But you know I’ll always be here. Right?” She tried to smile as Miyabe looked away.

Makoto checked her watch again. She should be leaving. Grabbing her purse, Makoto pushed her chair away from the table. “Look, I have to run out,” she said, “Don’t stay up too late watching anime.” Miyabe didn’t answer back.

She tapped her little sister on the shoulder, and stared into the same pair of green eyes. “We’ll watch the ‘Three Swordsmen’ tomorrow. I promise. I’ll even make hamburgers.”

Miyabe’s mouth formed a big ‘O.’ “Promise, Nee-chan?”

Makoto nodded, and kissed her little sister on top of her head. “I’ll be back soon, okay? Get some sleep.” She walked out the door, giving her little sister a thumbs-up before shutting it.

Tonight, she promised they would eat hamburgers tomorrow. But tonight’s promises, Makoto thought as she ran down the street, would only last until daybreak.

Title: Minako’s Sick Day
Author: no_retreat
Theme: If Only A Character Hadn't Been at the Peak of Health
Genre: Comedy
Version: Anime (Stars)
Rating: PG

“Search for your love hontou wa
Dakishimetai no sa….”

“Mm…Yaten-kun…” Minako flopped around on her bed, cuddling her pillow. Yes, this was very nice for her, she could just lay here all day and listen Yaten (and Seiya and Taiki) sing to her.

“Minako.” Was that Yaten? Minako’s eyes opened to find a white head floating over her. “Yaten…kuuun…”

Two sets of very sharp claws dug into her shoulders.

“YEOOOW!” Minako bolted up, grabbing her shoulder. “Artemis!”

The cat popped out of the covers. “You were asleep. And you’re going to be late.”

“You couldn’t wake me up like a normal cat?” Minako inspected the spot she had gotten attacked. “It’s kind of warm in here,” she murmured.

Artemis leapt out of her bed. “I’m not surprised you slept so late. You spent all night studying, remember?”

“Huh?” Minako raised her hand to her head. Wow, did it feel really warm. Maybe she should leave off the comforter if it was getting warmer out…

“You’re going to be late,” Artemis said, flicking his tail. Minako looked over at the clock, blinking a large “8.05.”

“AUGH!” Minako dove into the closet, hunting for her uniform. It still felt really warm, though; maybe she just needed to get out of the room.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“You have until the bell to complete this exam,” Ogata-sensei droned on. Minako propped up her head. It still felt really warm. Maybe her mother wanted be too mad if she went home after this.

“Psst.” Minako drowsily turned her head towards Makoto, who was giving her a thumbs-up. Minako gave one back, although she felt like absolute crap. Oh well. She was probably going to take the make-up exam anyway.

“And, begin!” Oh. Yeah. The test. Minako looked down at the sheet of paper in front of her, the kanji and English letters swimming in front of her. She was feeling a bit dizzy, though. Maybe se’d just try a few and then…

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sailor Iron Mouse wasn’t feeling very well.

“Achoo!” She blew into a tattered tissue and threw it aside. “Stupid human cold,” she muttered. She just wanted to go home and rest; it wasn’t very productive to be looking for Star Seeds if she didn’t feel very well.

But Galaxia-sama hadn’t been very happy with Iron Mouse as of recent, particularly with her failed searches for Star Seeds. To top that off, Lead Crow was also taking delight in the fact that Iron Mouse’s reputation was on the line.

“ACHOO!” Iron Mouse grabbed the trunk of the tree she was sitting in, nearly falling off. “I hate this!” she whined. “There’s gotta be something I can do for this…this plague!”
She leapt down from the tree, falling over as she hit the ground. “Oww,” she rubbed her head as she sat up.

While Iron Mouse’s health was not in the best, fate decided to be kind to her today. Flapping in a nearby garbage can was yesterday’s newspaper. The headline, Iron Mouse noticed with increasing interest read, “Juuban-Ward Hospital New Head of Pathology” with a handsome looking doctor underneath.

“Heh.” Iron Mouse whipped out her sunglasses. “Heee hee hee.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Minako trudged home. “Well, I failed that one spectactularly.” She tried to remember how many questions she managed to fill in before passing out in the middle of class. Which would seem to be…none.

She sighed as she walked along the sidewalk. Maybe her mother would let this pass since she was sick. It wasn’t that Minako hadn’t studied, it had just made her head funny.

And it’s like they say, all that work can make you sick. Or something like that.

Minako turned at the Juuban Hospital, home being another two blocks away. She began to sway again. “Augh. Better sit down.” Her head dizzy and swimming, Minako plopped down on a bench outside of the hospital. She just wanted to go home, and sleep.

A scream jolted Minako out of her catnap.

“Huh? What?” She looked around, her eyes bleary. Standing a few yards away was a doctor being menaced by a girl with white hair…and mouse ears?

“Oh, no,” Minako groaned. This was the last thing she needed today. But, when duty called… “Venus Crystal Power, Make-up!”

“Come on,” Iron Mouse cooed. Suigata-sensei fell to the ground. “Just cure my cold and I’ll get your Star Seed as well. It’s so *achoo* perfect!”

The doctor stuttered. “Pl-please. Take whatever you want! Just-just don’t hurt me!”

“Ooohh?” Iron Mouse smiled as she held up her bracelets. “You’re so cooperative!”

“Love Me-Chain!” The gold chain smacked Iron Mouse’s wrists. “Huh?” Iron Mouse looked up at Sailor Venus, holding her weapon. “You! *achoo* You’re horrible!”

“I’m horrible?” Venus frowned. “I’m not the one hurting people who are responsible for curing patients and making them feel better!”

“But that’s what I need!” Iron Mouse wailed. She held up her bracelets and launched two beams at Venus.

Venus leapt to the side, and managed to miss the lights. She ended up falling over. “Oh, little *achoo* Miss Special can’t fight today?” Iron Mouse mocked. “You’re a lot better for me to get your Star Seed.” Venus tried to stand up, if only her head wasn’t so dizzy and…

“Star Sensitive Inferno!” A stream of light knocked Iron Mouse away. Venus could barely make out who had made the attack…it was one of the Starlights who had that attack, wasn’t it?

“I can’t believe you!” Venus heard Iron Mouse yell as she blacked out.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
“Search for your love hontou wa
Dakishimetai no sa….”

Minako opened her eyes, making out a white head of hair. “Ya-Yaten-kun?”

“You’re awake.” Minako sat up and rubbed her eyes. The last thing she remembered was fighting one of the Animates in front of the hospital and then…and then…

And then what?

“Taiki and I found you asleep in front of the hospital.” She looked over at Yaten-kun sitting beside her bed. “We took turns carrying you home.”

“Yaten-kun…” Minako murmured. Yaten stood up and stretched. “We’re running late for an interview, with no thanks to you.”

“No,” Minako shook her head, “I appreciate what you did.”

Yaten pouted. “Yeah. Whatever. Next time, if you feel sick, stay at home.” He walked toward her bedroom door. “See you at school when you feel better.”

“Yaten-kun, wait!” Minako blurted. The idol cocked an eyebrow at her, his hand on the doorknob. “When you found me…ah… um…” Minako tried to think of the best way to phrase this. “You didn’t see…anything, did you? Anything weird?”

Yaten shrugged. “Not really. Your panties, maybe.”

“Ah.” Minako settled back. “Okay. Fine.” Yaten left Minako to her sickbed, and began walking away.

Five minutes later, Minako shot back up in bed. “MY WHAT?!”

I had a lot of fun writing the second one.

no_retreat @ 2008-03-03T00:28:00

2008-03-03T05:28:42Z

*pops out from stacks of papers* O hai thar.

Title: Manners & Consolations
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Hino Rei/Sailor Mars
Genre: General
Version: PGSM
Rating: G
Word Count: 245

Rei frowned at the little box she was carrying. All that work- well, not too much, now that she thought more about it- and they were shuffled away.

Then again, it was rather an unexpected day.

“Should we tell Usagi we were there too?” She looked up at Makoto, holding up her own consolation prize.

“I’d rather not,” Rei said, her voice sharp.

“Oh.” Makoto smiled. “Right, because you wouldn’t do anything like a mascot contest.” Rei glared at the taller girl. “You have to keep up your appearance, don’t you?” Makoto finished.

Rei sighed. “I don’t have to. I just don’t want to hear about it.” The girls walked along silently towards the Hikawa Shrine, neither one of them saying anything.

“Y’know,” Makoto said after some time, “Consolation prizes aren’t that bad at all.” Rei glared at her again. “We gave it a good shot.” They stopped at the shrine gates. Makoto reached into her bag and handed Rei the charm Usagi had made. “Should put it up anyway, right?” Makoto said.

Rei took the wooden plaque. “I’ll find somewhere for it,” she said softly, “I’ll see you tomorrow.” Rei turned around and began to walk away.

“Hey!” She stopped and looked over her shoulders. Makoto was leaning up against the side of the gates. “Don’t you know not thanking people is bad manners?” Makoto called out.

Rei smiled, replying, “Thank you.”

“For what?”

Thanks for going with me,” she finished, turning back around.

*goes back to flurry of papers and midterms*

Back from the pits....

2008-02-09T19:57:53Z

Title: Trading Barbs
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Cornered
Genre: Angst, Romance
Version: Anime/Manga
Rating: PG

Mina should have known better than to let that girl out of her sight.

"Damn it." She snapped her phone open and quickly hit the call button. "It figures she'd disappear when Tsukino-sama needs her the most." Mina could hear faint conversation from the ballroom, incessant business chatter. This was the night, as she'd put it so many times to the subordinates, to keep up appearances. In more ways than one, Mina thought.

The other end picked up immediately. "Rei," Mina’s voice got hard, "She's gone off again."

"I've gotten a report from Kino-san. She saw ojou-san exit the building with another guest approximately five minutes ago."

"Is she still in position?"

"Yes. Do you want me to intervene?"

"Let Kino continue observation. If it gets to be too long, send someone in to break up."

"Roger."

Mina pursued her lips, before asking, "Do we have confirmation of this guest's identity?"

"I believe it's the gentleman from that company." Rei’s voice spat over her end. "I'll keep tabs. If something happens, we'll keep it quiet."

"Excellent." Rei knew how these things worked, ever since the beginning. "Keep me updated." Mina snapped the phone shut, and leaned against the wall. "I need a drink," she sighed, crossing her pale arms against her tight black dress. That girl…Tsukino-sama will deal with her daughter later, but Mina would get reprimanded before that. She closed her eyes.

"You look like you need something," a low voice said, into her ear.

Mina opened her dark blue eyes, looking up into a pale pointed face. The man standing before her laughed and moved back. "I scared you, didn't I?" He ran his hand through his cropped white hair.

"I'd advise you to go back to the party, sir," Mina said, her voice stern. She locked eyes with him. "I'm sure your host would prefer that."

"Feisty." He extended a hand. "Let's get acquainted, shall we?" Mina didn't reach back, instead, she stood there with her mouth open. "It's not," the man said, moving towards her again, "like I have anything important to do."

His white shirt was unbuttoned slightly, his skin just barely showing. Mina's cheeks flushed a bright red. "I…"

"I'd like to talk to you about a similar interest our companies have. Perhaps in a less open space-"

The next thing Mina knew, the man had staggered back a few steps, his hand raised to his face. She could make out the small droplet of blood on his fingers. "Sorry," she said. Her cell phone buzzed, and Mina grabbed it. "Yes," she answered the phone, her eyes never leaving her intruder. "Yes…get out there as soon as you can." She dropped her hand to her side, her throat dry as she tried to say something. He stared at her, a bruise on his pale cheek growing red, with faint stain of blood on his equally pale lips. Mina sighed angrily, and turned on her heel. "Leave me alone," she snapped, not looking back, "I'd leave this party if I were you."

"And who are you?" he finally said.

Mina paused, her hand on a large oak door. She looked back at her pursuer, and brushed her long blonde hair to the side. "Wouldn't you like to find out?" she said. She grabbed the door handle and rejoined the party.

AN: Same storyline as Lightning Rose, just different perspectives.

Hi there.

2007-09-15T02:51:15Z

Title: Rival Strategy
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Paragon
Genre: General
Version: Anime
Rating: G

"You're pretty much unrivaled, huh?" Ryo's eyes watched Ami switch out one of his pawns for her knight. She shook her head. "I've had some," she said as she sat back, anticipating Ryo's next move.

"Other than me, you mean?" He moved a bishop onto an empty space.

Ami moved her second knight. "You don't count."

"I don't?" Ryo took one of her pawns.

"It wasn't the same once you told me about your...talent." Ami folded her hands under her chin, contemplating her next move. "Just being able to know the answers isn't the same as studying."

"I do study."

"But not as much I have to?" Ami sacrificed her bishop. "...you know what I'm going to do next, aren't you?"

Ryo sighed. "Not particularly."

"Liar."

"I'm not using my power, honest! This is a good, old-fashioned battle of the minds." Ami glared at him over the chessboard, Ryo breaking his queen from his formation. She moved her knight again. "Although..." Ryo said slowly, "I know why you don't have too many rivals." His queen took her bishop.

Ami's hand hovered over the knight, preparing to take his queen. She moved. "Why do you say that?"

"Because you make sure your rivals never challenge you, that's why." Ryo took another pawn of Ami's, allowing for her to take his king.

"Check."

11. Title: ...From Somewhere...
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Remember
Genre: General
Version: Anime (First Arc R)
Rating: G

"Waaaaahhh!" The wail pierced the hallways of Juuban Junior High School, causing the packed group of students to jump back. "Usagi-chan! You're making a scene!"

Ami craned her head back to catch a glimpse of whomever it was making all of the fuss. She was used to wailing students- there were enough of those at cram school- but the idea of publicly crying a little...well, immature.

Through the sea of uniformed students, she could barely make out the sobbing girl. The girl was shaking her head, her blonde pigtails flying around furiously, as her friend tried to comfort. "No no no! I don't wanna go to make-up classes!"

A black cat. Transformation pens. Senshi. Aqua Illusion. Mercury.

Ami blinked. The girl looked familiar, but, "She's not in my prep classes." Ami turned back to the board, looking for the girl's name- what did her friend call her? Usagi?- if they had met in an exam before. Ami didn’t forget people too easily.

Moon Kingdom. Princess. Metallia. Ginzuishou. Death.

Ah, there it was- Tsukino Usagi, near the bottom of the scoreboard. Ami blanched at the girl's score. "I must have seen her around school then," she murmured, picking up her schoolbag. She walked by the crying blonde, her friend still attempting to cheer her up. :Usagi, come on, we'll go to Crown after school."

Ami shook her head, repressing the urge to the girls that they should be studying instead of playing games. It wasn't her business, though- it wasn't not like she knew them.

no_retreat @ 2007-09-10T00:03:00

2007-09-10T04:08:12Z

Title: Requesting Your Presence
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Descent
Genre: Romance
Version: Manga
Rating: PG

Athena tapped the arm of her chair. Honestly, must there be a party for her? She wasn’t even deserving of one, what with was going on the Moon Kingdom and the Earth.

Yet her mother insisted for the party. "The princess could do without one protector, she has enough with Venus and Mars on her side." It wasn't even an important occasion to warrant for Athena's presence. The queen had simply requested her attendance, as "you ARE the crown princess, regardless of Serenity's interest in you. You could play some role in our entertainment."

The door to Athena's chamber opened. She turned around, her blue hair brushing against her cheek. "Jupiter," she said, as the tall Jovian entered, "I thought you would be tied up with our ambassadors."

"Your mother was sending a servant to get you, I offered my services instead." Jupiter flicked her hair. "This much different from what I've heard about the Mercurials."

"Mm." Athena stood up, her gown sweeping around the chair. "It's more of my mother's doing...she's gotten more into the social aspect of running the kingdom." She crossed the room towards Jupiter. "Honestly, I would prefer to be back at the princess's side."

"I would too." Jupiter looked behind her at the closed door. "However...Athena..." Athena paused in her steps. They had never called each other by their true names, only the formal titles of :Lady Mercury" and "Lady Jupiter" were used on the Moon. "I'd much rather have you by my side at the moment."

"Jupiter-" Athena shook her head. "Mother would be expecting us by now." Jupiter smiled, knowing that this was no time for intimacy, held out her hand. "Shall I escort you downstairs?"

Athena took her fellow soldier's hand, and then felt the girl's lips descend upon hers. Athena closed her eyes as Jupiter pulled away, stroking Athena's hair. "Hera..."

"You said your mother would be waiting." Jupiter opened the door.

"Yes," Athena went through the door, descending to her mother's ball.

no_retreat @ 2007-09-09T12:08:00

2007-09-09T16:18:43Z

Title: Siren Song
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Image
Genre: General; Dark
Version: Animanga
Rating: PG

AN: Partially inspired by Nightwish's "The Siren," particularly the 'song' bits.

Flick. The cold water splashed on Ami's face. She shuddered, pulling her white cover-up closer around her shoulders. It was too cold to properly enjoy the beach today. The choppy water dove in between Ami's legs as she picked her way around the rough seashell pieces embedded in the surf.

"Ami-saaaan!" She turned around to face the beach house where they had been staying. Hotaru and ChibiUsa were waving to her. "Hurry up! It's gonna rain!"

"In a minute!" Ami wrapped her sweater tighter. She should really be heading back inside, there was really no reason for her to be standing in the water if it was this chilly.

...come to me...

"Eh?" Ami blinked, the sea water splashing about her legs. "I thought...did someone say something..."

...somewhere, my faerie queen...

"Music?" Ami cupped her hands around her ears. There. Some sort of exotic music...but from where?

Come to me... Ami looked out across the ocean, the dark waves bobbing up and down on the horizon. In the distance, she could barely make out a person, standing there. Ami gasped, and began to go further in the water. "Hold on, I can help you!" The water stung her body as she waded in.

The song kept getting stronger, as Ami pushed herself past the waves. She had lost her sweater, but that didn't matter. And the person, she kept getting closer, and they looked familiar. "Hold on," Ami panted, kicking her legs. Hold on!

Her hand reached in front of her, grabbing onto their clothing. A cloak? Ami struggled, keeping her head above water. "Who are you?" she sputtered out. "What are you?"

The person started to laugh as Ami plunged under water; scaly, webbed hands pulling her further down in the black waters. "You are the sea's now," The form melted back into its original shape, "my Mercurian princess."

4. Title: Old Scars of Projects
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Experiment
Genre: General, Angst
Version: Manga
Rating: PG

Hotaru pushed the petri dish across the table top. This was so boring, waiting for the little buds to sprout. It had been a project that her science had assigned for all of them. She looked over at the worksheet packet she had to complete. "Bean Growing Experiment," Hotaru read, murmuring the words. Her stomach tightened.

Just call it a project. Project doesn't sound harmful. She touched her left shoulder. The scars and cybernetic parts were gone, disappeared when she had been reborn. Hotaru still felt them sometimes, mostly at night. When she could feel Mistress Nine retaking her body.

"Honestly!" She slammed her fists down on the table, the petri dish clattering. "What does that have to do with simple schoolwork?"

"Hotaru-chan?" She looked up from her table to the bedroom door. Ami was there, holding her computer, "Setsuna-san and I heard you shouting. Everything okay?"

Hotaru blushed. “Yes...a bit frustrated, that's all." She held up the petri dish. "It's not growing fast enough."

Ami nodded. "Well, all right. Setsuna-san said to call if you needed anything."

"Thank you." Hotaru winced as she heard Ami head back down to Setsuna-mama's room. She sighed, flopping backwards onto the floor. "Honestly..." she said.

no_retreat @ 2007-09-08T00:40:00

2007-09-08T04:45:13Z

Title: When She Was...
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Divorce
Genre: Drama
Version: Animanga
Rating: G

When she was three, Ami's most favorite thing to do was to paint with her father. He'd take her to his studio, and they would paint together. Ami would wear a big old smock of her father's, and they would spend hours together. Her father painted landscapes back then. Ami drew her family. She liked it very much.

When she was four, her father gave Ami a book of paintings. He told her one of his paintings was in the book. Ami carried it around everywhere she could, absorbed in the fantastic colors her father created. He showed her the different types of painting styles that other artists used. Her mother, on the other hand, was happy to see Ami reading so much. It wasn't just the one painting book, it was anything Ami had. She liked to read when she was feeling sad.

When she was five, her father went overseas. Ami's new favorite chore was getting the mail. Her father sent them handmade postcards every week, sketches of the places he'd been and the people he'd meet. The postcards were addressed to Ami, always starting with "My little Ami-chan," and ending with an "Always missing you."

When she was six, Ami returned from school to find her mother home early. They had a quiet dinner, not so different from the dinners of the last few months. Ami's mother said that they should be getting used to this. That night, Ami pulled out her brand new dictionary to look up the word her mother had told her, "Divorce: to end marriage with a husband or wife."

When she turned seven, Ami got another postcard from her father. She hadn't gotten one from him for months. There was a hand-drawn picture of a cake on the front. On the back, her father had written, "Missing you on your birthday. Sorry I can't be there." Ami put it in her desk drawer. Her father didn't write again until her next birthday.

Now with more fic!

2007-09-04T14:02:21Z

Twice in one day...yeah, this is the way to kill myself over the month.

Title: New School Year
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Back to School
Genre: Poetry
Version: PGSM
Rating: G

Pens, paper, and books
All neatly packed
Schoolbag placed by the door
Uniform, pressed and waiting
A cool spring morning dawns
Still sleeping, alarm ready
She holds a scrap of paper tight
With smudged characters, wishing
Hopes for the new semester
I want to have friends

no_retreat @ 2007-09-04T07:11:00

2007-09-04T11:12:48Z

Title: Top of the Game
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Competitive
Genre: Comedy
Version: Anime
Rating: PG

There is one rule that those in Japan’s national practice exams followed: Every student for themselves. Every one involved saw each other as another threat, another obstacle into getting into the very best schools.

Mizuno Ami had such an obstacle.

She held the unopened results, examining the envelope. There weren’t many in the country who matched her scores, a fact Ami was quite proud of. So when her position was threatened, she only knew one method- fight.

Looking around the park for any recognizable academic foes, Ami slid her house key across the top of the envelope. The pamphlet slid into her shaking hands. The little white sticker holding the pages together glared at her, as Ami carefully removed it. “Okay...” she said, her eyes scanning the first page. Number one score: Mercury, 500. Top scores in all subjects.

“Thank goodness,” she sighed. And here to think that she might have slipped up on one or two questions. She placed the score pamphlet into her school bag. “I’ll have to get Usagi involved with these.” Ami stood up and stretched, making plans to stop and buy some pork buns for a job well done.

“Ne, Kurume-san! What were your practice scores this time?” Ami stopped, looking at the two boys ahead of her. The green-haired boy with the glasses laughed, “Beaten out by Mercury, again. They’re really good.”

“They beat you by a point! You two must be really good!” His friend smacked him on the back, “Glad they don’t go to our school, huh?” Ami’s fingers were searching for the pamphlet, as she mentally cursed herself for not seeing who else had made the top scores. The other boy kept talking, “No one at our school can beat Kurume Suri, the regional genius.”

Kurume Suri? Ami’s mind raced as she flipped to the beginning of the pamphlet. Number one score, Mercury, but number two was...

Number two was...

She looked up at the two boys who had began moving onward. Kurume Suri...Sukurime...Kisumure...Muresiku... Ami’s eyes widened in realization.

“MERCURIUS!!!”

no_retreat @ 2007-08-01T22:23:00

2007-08-02T02:26:51Z

Title: Why I’d Fight For You
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Vengeance
Genre: General
Version: Anime
Rating: PG

Part 1

"Makoto-chan!" She stopped, looking behind her. Ami was running to catch up to Makoto, her leather school bag swinging in the air. "Computer club just let out...are you on your way home?" Makoto nodded, as Ami said, "Shall we walk together?"

Ami jabbered on about her upcoming practice exams ("But after the Juuban exam, college exams should be even harder!"), as Makoto merely nodded. She was walking slowly than normally, in part to let Ami keep up with her, but also that her shin was still bruised up from her yanki encounter a week ago. "Makoto-chan?"

"What?" Makoto suddenly jumped, being jarred out of her thoughts.

Ami frowned. "You've been pretty quiet this week. Did something happen to you?" Makoto shook her head. "Are you sure?"

Before Makoto could answer, a roaring sound came rushing down the street. They both looked ahead, Makoto's chest tightening. Rumbling down the road was a biker gang- more yankis. "Ami-chan..." she said quietly.

"They might be passing by," Ami said, clutching her bag close to her stomach. Very rarely was Ami ever wrong- this was one of those moments.

The biker gang slowed up in front of the two girls, all of them glaring towards Makoto. There were about seven or eight yankis, and Makoto recognized one. "Hey there, girlie," the yanki called out. "What'd you say to me?" Makoto stepped back as the yankis got off of their bikes.

The leader made her way up to Makoto, grabbing her by the chin. "You've messed with the wrong people, you tall freak." Makoto couldn’t see what Ami was doing. "Shall we cut up her pretty face?" The yanki leader sneered as she held out a hand to receive as razor.

Makoto shut her eyes. Just take it and hope that they let it go. She could feel the cold metal against her skin. Brace youself...

Thunk. The hand gripping Makoto loosened. "What the fuck?" Makoto fell to the ground, and she looked up. "A-ami-chan?"

Ami was standing in front of the group of yankis, her face twisted in anger. At the feet of the yankis lay Ami's school bag, her books and papers spilled about. "Leave her alone," Ami said.

"Why should we?" someone else yelled.

"This," Makoto said, punching the leader in the stomach. The yanki leader toppled over, and Makoto grabbed Ami's school bag, shoving her things into it. "Run!" she shouted, as she and Ami ran off.

After some time, they both collapsed onto a park bench. "I...think...we...may have...lost them..." Ami panted.

"Why'd you do that?" Makoto asked, "They're already out for me, I don't need you to get involved too."

Ami smiled at her, her face red from running. "You're my friend, Mako-chan."

Makoto frowned. "That's got nothing to do with it-"

"They were going after my friend," Ami said, opening up her bag, "I wasn't going to leave you behind...oh dear, my computer book cover is scratched..."

Makoto smiled. "Come on," she said, "Want to study back at my place?"

Title: Being Called Back
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Haunted
Genre: Crossover (Lost); Dark; Angst
Version: PGSM
Rating: PG

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3

Makoto was walking along a very familiar stretch of sand, her feet sinking further in as the water rushed up around her ankles. The warm breeze whipped around her hair, blowing strands into her eyes. "It's so beautiful...I wish I could have seen more of it."

"You can still come back, Mako." She looked to her side, where Locke was standing with her. "It's over, Locke," Makoto said, "I'm home, with Motoki."

"We weren't supposed to leave. The island brought us here for a reason." His hand tightened, and Makoto noticed that he was holding a gun. "You have to come back." he said, looking straight at her. His mouth spilled blood, and his eyes...

Makoto stumbled onto the ground. "No...don't...I'm happy, I'm with Motoki...don't make me go back..."

"You have to, Kino Makoto. It's your destiny."

"It's not!" she yelled. "You don't know anything about my destiny!"

"What about your destiny?" Makoto laid on the sand, shaking her head. "Makoto? Mako-chan?"

She opened up her eyes to find herself back in bed, Motoki shaking her. "A dream..." she murmured.

Motoki rested his hand on her stomach. "The third time in the last two weeks," he said, "You were yelling this time."

"Sorry." He laid down next to her. "Makoto...y'know ever since you got rescued, you've been having these dreams."

Makoto turned her head away. "They’re nothing. It’s probably just stress."

"You keep saying stuff about locks and monsters. And...the rescue was three months ago."

"Still have some memories of it." Motoki turned her to face him. "I've asked you for a while," he said, "But...Mako-chan, what happened on that island?"

Makoto flopped over, her back facing Motoki. "I'm going back to sleep...good night." She shut her eyes, hoping that any more dreams would be a deep, blissful darkness.

Title: Leaving Home
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Coming of Age
Genre: General, Angst
Version: Manga
Rating: G

Her mother placed a hand on her shoulder. "It's one of the highest honors someone from our planet could have."

Hera looked up into her mother's eyes. "I don't understand...what's going on, Mama?" She always knew that her mother had all of the answers. That's why her mother was the queen of all of Jupiter.

"Queen Serenity wishes for you to live at the Moon Kingdom." Her mother smiled as they walked down the palace halls. "...Permanently."

"Permanently?" Hera blinked. "What...Mama, what do you mean?" Her small voice rose. They stopped in the middle of the hall, her mother kneeling down to look Hera in the eyes. "Mama?" Hera could see her mother's sadness.

Her mother started slowly, "Your birthmark...the one that appears sometimes?" Hera nodded; she had heard people talk about how it made her special. "That birthmark means that you're very important to Queen Serenity and her daughter. They want you to live with them from now on."

"But we don't even see the princess that much!" Hera shouted, "Why do I have to go and live with her?! Can't I stay here and be important?" Her mother shook her head. "That's your destiny," she said, taking Hera's head in her hands.

Hera's eyes filled up with tears as her mother continued. "You're going to have to learn many things when you get there."

"No... I don't wanna..."

"I'm sorry." Her mother swallowed, as Hera saw her fight to keep back tears. "Once you leave, you will not be Princess Hera anymore."

"I don't want to!" Her mother shook her head once more. "I cannot say no to Her Majesty." Hera's tears burst out, streaming down her cheeks. "You have to leave Jupiter, and learn your own destiny."

"Mama, please-"

"That is final." Hera stopped crying, her mother's face turned serious. "We will discuss your preparations tomorrow morning."

"Mama...?"

"That is all I have to say to you," her mother said, turning away, "Lady Jupiter."

FLOP

2007-07-31T02:22:39Z

Title: The Jealousy of a Reptile
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Turtle
Genre: General
Version: PGSM
Rating: G

The doors of the Crown Karaoke Center swished open, letting Makoto to walk through.
"Motoki?" She looked around, hoping to catch some sign of him. Sadly, the only living being in the foyer was about three inches tall, green, and in a tank.

"Hiya, Kamekichi-san," Makoto smiled as she tapped out a hello on the glass, "Do you know where Motoki is?" The little turtle raised its head, looking like he was waiting for Makoto to drop in a turtle treat. "Suppose you don't," Makoto propped her head up, leaning in front of the counter. "I'm sure Motoki told you all about our big news. You're not jealous of me, are you?" Kamekichi tucked his head back in. "Oh, come on," Makoto laughed, "he'll still make time for you. Just cause we're getting married doesn’t mean he'll forget about his little Kamekichi."

She smiled as the turtle stuck his head out again. "Look at me, I'm talking to a turtle. He says you're a good listener, though. Guess you don't have too much to say to me." Kamekichi pushed himself off of his little rock, plopping into the shallow water. "I'll be down in the karaoke room, okay? Let Motoki know when he gets back." Tapping her finger on the glass again, Makoto headed down the hallway.

Kamekichi poked his head out of the water. He wondered if and when someone was going to actually feed him today.

Title: What I Fight For
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Bruise
Genre: General, Action
Version: Anime
Rating: PG

Makoto fell to the ground, her hand scraping across the pavement. "Get up, girlie." The yanki delivered another kick to Makoto’s shins. "They said you could fight back," the yanki spit on the ground.

She pushed herself up, wincing at the pain forming in her legs and stomach and arms. From out of Makoto's eye, she could see the yanki reaching for a wooden sword. "Leave me alone," Makoto muttered, "I didn't do anything to you."

The yanki smirked, her bleached blonde hair sticking to her cheek. "See, girlie, you did. You hit my bike with some dirty water."

"Water washes off." Makoto supported herself against a lamp pole, wincing as her swollen and scraped hand hit the metal. "You should've said something too."

"SHUT UP!" The yanki moved forward, brandishing her sword. Makoto ducked out of the way, before delivering a kick straight into the yanki's legs, knocking her down. Makoto stooped down, and then delivered a blow to the yanki's stomach. Wincing in pain, the yanki gritted her teeth and glared up at Makoto. "You messed with the wrong people, girlie," she spat out.

Makoto hoisted the yanki up against the lamp post. "You leave me alone," she said calmly, taking deep breaths.

"Bullshit. My gang's gonna be after you so bad, girlie, you wished you'd never been born."

Makoto pinned the yanki back up harder than before, her green eyes flashing. "Leave me alone," she repeated, before throwing the yanki aside. "And wash your bike next time too," Makoto called back, as she staggered off down the street. The sky rumbled above, and Makoto felt the rain begin to pelt her bruised skin.

Behind. Again.

2007-07-26T12:08:06Z

Title: Our Perfect Day
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Image
Genre: General
Version: Animanga
Rating: G

"Mama, Mama!" Makoto ran into the stream, the clear water splashing up against her small legs, "I'm gonna get a fish!"

"Careful, Mako-chan," Papa said, as he watched her from the grassy banks, her mother unpacking colorful bentos from the picnic baskets. Makoto dove her hands into the water, trying to find little fish to grab and show off to her parents. "Fishy, fishy," she sung, stepping on the smooth rocks. "Aah!" Makoto stepped, teetered, and fell into the water right on her bottom. "Waah!" She pouted up at her parents, who were laughing. Her mother pulled out a towel from their bag, saying, "Come on, Makoto, it's time to eat."

Sopping wet, Makoto climbed out of the stream and wrestled into the towel by her mother. "Mako-chan, do you want to give Papa his special bento?"

"Yes!" Makoto handed over one of the bentos, "It's got tamogoyachi!"

Papa smiled, "My favorite!" Makoto smiled, grabbing her special green bento box. And then, "Mama, Papa?"

"Yes, my little chef?" Mama said.

"You won't be gone for too long, won't you?" Makoto looked at her parents. "You'll come home right away, right?"

Papa reached over and ruffled Makoto's hair. "We'll only be away for three days, Mako-chan. You'll be okay."

"We'll bring you back a lot of souvenirs," Mama added, reaching for the now-empty bentos, "So don't miss us too much!" Makoto nodded, as she hugged her mother. They were just going on a business trip, that was all. She shouldn't worry too much over it.

Title: A Tryst in the Woods
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Witch
Genre: General
Version: Manga
Rating: PG

“Princess...” Jupiter muttered, shooting another glance through the trees surrounding the Earth Kingdom’s palace. Of course she would have been the one stuck today to try to stop her princess’s now weekly-trysts with the prince. “When we get back, Serenity-sama is going to hear all of this.” She crossed her legs, shifting her balance on the branch she was seated on.

Snap. Jupiter’s ears perked up, and she froze, straining to hear another sound. There it was- a rustling. She jumped down from her perch, landing softly on the mossy ground below. “Show yourself!” Jupiter stated. The bushes rustled again, small branches snapping and crunching under someone’s foot. “Well?” Jupiter said, with more force.

A young woman emerged from the woods, her black hair tangled with leaves. “Please forgive me,” she said, breathlessly.

Jupiter’s eyes narrowed. “Who are you? Do you mean to do harm to the Princess of the Moon?”

The young woman held out her hands. “A mere servant of the household...I have heard rumors of the Moon Princess and her beauty; I only wished to see the truth.”

Jupiter’s gaze remained on the young woman, noticing that she was clutching something close to her chest. “Let me see that,” Jupiter held out her gloved hand towards the woman. Unsure, the stranger handed over a crushed red rose. “I...I picked it earlier,” she muttered, “You startled me into crushing it.”

“Is that all?” Jupiter said, letting a smile show through. Taking the rose by the stem, she closed her eyes and concentrated. When she open them, a vibrant red rose was in full bloom.

The young woman’s eyes lit up at the display. “Such magic...” she murmured, “are you a sorceress as well?”

“No,” Jupiter handed the flower back to the woman, who was still transfixed on the flower. “It’s only one of my skills.”

“Only a skill?”

“What did you mean, a sorceress?” Jupiter’s gaze returned to the hardened look of earlier.

The young woman smiled. “Only a mere magician in the King’s service...I amuse, tell fortunes...trivial matters.” She looked into Jupiter’s eyes, her black ones locked onto Jupiter’s. “I can see your own future in front of you, if you’d like to know.”

“I-” Jupiter’s answer was cut off by the rustling of branches once more. “The guardsmen,” the woman said, “Hide. They may see you as a threat.” Jupiter nodded, leaping back into her earlier hiding space, as the guards burst into the forest. “You!” One of the uniformed men pointed a sword towards the woman. “State your purpose, here, girl.”

The woman drew herself up. “Such questioning, sir. Surely you know not to disturb the sorceress Beryl during her divine meditations.” The guard withdrew his sword, ordering the troops to turn back. The woman looked up at Jupiter. “They won’t bother you...but I would suggest returning to the moon with your princess quickly.”

“Thank you,” Jupiter said as she made her way downward. But as she landed, the woman disappeared as quickly as she had appeared. “Where-” The only thing Jupiter could hear was the quiet of the forest.

no_retreat @ 2007-07-24T09:57:00

2007-07-24T14:00:31Z

Title: Leaving On A Jet Plane (Lost Crossover Finale)
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Promise
Genre: Crossover (Lost); Angst, Romance
Version: PGSM
Rating: PG

Part 1
Part 2

"The survivors had been living on a remote island in the Pacific. Scientists say such places are frequently found, while they are becoming rarer these days. However, the absolute horrors encountered by the passengers are still unknown.

We take you now to the press conference-" Makoto clicked off the television. Two days. Two days since they were taken to Hawaii, currently staying at one of the fanciest hotels on the islands. Two days since they had seen the helicopters finally approach the island.

Two days since Locke and Charlie died. She couldn’t even guess how long it had been since they had crashed.

She had finally called back home yesterday. Makoto wasn't sure what everyone would think, but it was worth a shot.

"Moshi moshi, Chiba residence."

Makoto twisted the phone cord. "Usagi-chan?" She almost dropped at the sound of the resulting yell. "YOU'RE ALIVE! Oh, Mako-chan, I can't believe it! We were so worried about you- well, Rei-chan thought you were all right, but me and Ami-chan were really, really worried!"

"I'm-I've been fine." Makoto smiled. Usagi hadn't changed a bit, she should've expected this.

Ami had been a different story. "Oh, Makoto..." she said, "I'm really sorry!"

"It's not your fault."

"But...If I hadn't suggested that trip in the first place...we never got word after the crash."

Makoto shrugged. "I'm going home in a few days," she said.

"Have you called Motoki-san yet?"

"...no." She couldn't do it, to be exact. Every time she dialed the number for the Crown Karaoke Center, she always hung up before the line could connect. Makoto's eyes drifted from the blank television set to the beige phone perched on the bedside table. It might be late, but he still might be there- Her thoughts were cut off by a sharp knock at the door.

Pulling her hair back into a ponytail, Makoto threw open the door. "No press conference?" she asked, looking Claire in the eye.

The blonde shook her head. "I don't need them hounding me and Aaron. What about you?"

"Didn't feel like it," Makoto muttered, going back into the room, Claire following behind. "Mind if I hang out here for a bit?" Claire asked, "Sun's watching the baby, but I need some time to...just to think things over."

Claire had joined Makoto over on the bed; Makoto sitting up against the headrest, Claire cross-legged on the edge. "Can't believe we're here," Makoto murmured.

"Gonna go back home soon," Claire said, "I can't wait to show my mum Aaron. And then..." She smiled, sadness etched on her face. "What's for you in Tokyo? Family? Boyfriend?"

"I guess..." Makoto drew up her knees. "He's...my boyfriend. I think."

"You think?"

"It’s complicated." They sat there in silence for a few minutes. "Mako?" Makoto lifted up her head. "When we all go home," Claire said slowly, "It'd be nice to keep in touch, y'know? After what we've been through." Claire began twisting a big clunky ring around her finger. "Not right after we leave. Just every once in a while, drop a letter...phone call...But I don't think anyone'll do it-"

"Why not?" Claire looked at a now-smiling Makoto. "I'll write you. Even when you need to talk."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Attention. We are now beginning our descent towards Narita International Airport. Please fasten your seatbelts and place your seat in the upright position."

Makoto was checking off names in the little book Claire had given her book in the Honolulu airport. She had passed it around to as many people as she could, hoping that there would be an influx of letters in the next few months. "Hu-go Re-yes, Los Angeles," Makoto memorized under her breath, "Rose and Ber-nard, Buf-fa-lo, New York. Claire and Aaron Littleton, Sydney."

Maybe Makoto wasn't about to get postcards from everyone she had met. She circled the bottom address for Australia. I know a good recipe for a birthday cake...but that’s another ten months away... She shut the little address book with a satisfied smile, as the plane touched down.

"MAKOTO-CHAAAAAAAN!" Usagi flew into her friend's arms the second Makoto appeared at the baggage claim. "I missed you so, so much!"

Makoto hugged Usagi back. "I missed you too, Usagi-chan," she said, trying not laugh too hard, particularly at Mamoru rolling his eyes.

"Was it scary out there?" Usagi asked, "I can't believe you made it for so long! Did you meet any interesting people?"

"A few," Makoto said, fingering the little book.

"Oohh!" Usagi clasped her hands. "You'll have to tell us about them!"

Mamoru pulled his wife over. "Forgive her, Makoto-chan."

"It's not a problem," Makoto smiled again. Usagi could always make her feel better.
"Ah, Mako-chan!" Usagi said, springing out of Mamoru's grasp. "We have a surprise for you!"

"A surprise?" Were Rei and Ami here? Perhaps Minako had a rare day off? Makoto looked around for a familiar face somewhere in the airport’s baggage claim, not noticing anyone in particular-

"Mako-chan?" Makoto felt the hair stand up at the back of her neck. She turned towards where Mamoru and Usagi were now standing, Motoki squeezed in between the two. "So..." Motoki slowly started, "Have a good trip?" Makoto bit her lip, trying not to cry as she nodded. "That's good," Motoki said. And then he held at his hand.

Makoto took it, and they hugged. She would have kissed him right then, but there would be time for that later. She had a lot tell him about these four months. All that mattered was the words he said to her at that moment,

"Welcome home, Makoto-chan."

This was a lot harder than I thought to write. Mako-chan's so much in the background, to really explain what's going on in her POV is tough.

no_retreat @ 2007-07-23T09:53:00

2007-07-23T13:57:48Z

Title: Bedfellows
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Kinky
Genre: Adult
Version: Animanga
Rating: PG-13/R

" 'Koto-chan..." Haruka lifted up the brunette's cheek. "You’re very pretty like this, have I ever mentioned that?"

"N-no." Makoto blushed, her blouse slipping from her shoulders. Haruka nuzzled the girl's neck, her hand reaching for Makoto's ponytail holder. She gently tugged it out, Makoto's hair spilling out onto her now bare shoulders. "Much better," Haruka murmured, as she began to unclasp Makoto's bra. That was off in a second. Makoto let out a little gasp as Haruka squeezed her chest. "I think you were right...you're quite suited up there."

"Haruka-san..." Makoto bit her lip as Haruka began unbuttoning her top, "What about Michiru-san?"

"I don't think she'll mind," Haruka tugged off the blouse and threw it into the corner of the bedroom. "But-" Makoto started.

"And Hotaru's over at a friend's," Haruka continued, her voice even and low, causing Makoto to blush again, "Setsuna is...somewhere. We're fine." Makoto felt one of Haruka's hands reaching around to her backside, tracing the top of her skirt.

"Well, well, well." The bedroom door opened, to reveal Michiru standing there, wearing nothing but a black teddy. "Getting a head start, are we?"

"I couldn't help myself." Haruka clasped Makoto's waist tightly, as Michiru made her way to the bed. "Are you ready for this, Ma-ko-to?"

no_retreat @ 2007-07-20T17:06:00

2007-07-20T21:09:31Z

Title: Codename: Hera (Lightening Rose pt. 3)
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Parents
Genre: AU; General
Version: AU (manga)
Rating: PG

Part 1
Part 2

Makoto made sure that she didn’t accidently cut in front of Mina-san or Rei-san. There were some unexpected knots building up in her stomach as they made their way to middle-floor office. “Tsukino-sama said that she’s gotten more information surrounding the most recent attack,” Mina-san was saying, keeping her voice low.

“Does it have anything to do with the potential merger?” Rei-san seemed to note everything in her head, Makoto had guessed. Those two do work excellently together.

Mina-san nodded. “Well, she thinks, those involved were once connected with that company.” She threw a glance of at Makoto. “Tsukino-sama is really interested in our new acquisitions.”

“But will they be sufficient?” Rei-san asked. The three women turned a corner, slowly coming to stop in front of a large door. “An American computer hacker and a sword fighter as bodyguards...” Makoto’s eyes narrowed at that last remark. “No offense,” Rei-san added, noticing the glare.

“I hope so,” Makoto muttered. Mina-san laid a hand on the door handle. “Tsukino-sama will be able to fill you in more detail about your position here,” Mina-san said, “as well as a clearer idea of what’s been happening these last few months.” She pushed open the door, stepping aside to Rei-san and Makoto enter first.

So this was Tsukino-sama’s office. Sunlight poured through large windows, illuminating the office’s white and blue decor. Makoto suddenly got the feeling of cleanliness as she stepped in. There was one large desk, off to the side, and a woman seated behind it. “Tsukino-sama,” Mina said, bowing. The woman stood up, her long light blonde hair shimmering like silver in the sunlight. “Mina-kun, Hino-kun,” Tsukino-sama smiled at them. “And you must be Kino Makoto-kun.”

Makoto bowed as well, suddenly a bit flustered. “Er, yes...it’s an honor to work for you, Tsukino-sama.”

“Please, sit.” Makoto took one of the smaller chairs that were placed in front of the desk, feeling as if her tall body was slowly shrinking every second. She noticed that Mina-san and Rei-san had been seated in front of her, their backs ramrod straight. “I’m sure Mina-kun filled you on the main aspects of this job?” Tsukino-sama asked, eyes directly focused on Makoto’s.

“Your daughter’s bodyguard,” Makoto answered, trying not to let her nervousness through. She wasn’t normally one to get nervous, but sitting in this office, being questioned by Tsukino-sama, who was sitting there so calmly, made her stomach tie into knots.

Tsukino-sama nodded, continuing, “My daughter’s been targeted by some unsavory characters as of recently. She needs stronger protection than what I can offer her.”

“And my involvement is to be...?”

“You and Anderson-san shall be working together to not only protect my daughter from any attacks, but also to uncover what groups are targeting the company and why,” Tsukino-sama said, leaning forward, “This position would require constant coverage.”

“What about Mina-san and Rei-san?” Makoto asked. Her two superiors looked at each other nervously. “I mean, they obviously have the skills as well.”

“Rei and I are the home protection,” Mina-san said quickly, “You and Amy-kun are for public detail.”

“Wait, I don’t understand,” Makoto said, looking between the three women in front of her. “Why’s it so important that you hand-picked us? What can be so dangerous that your daughter needs my protection?”

Tsukino-sama stood up at her desk, placing one hand on the surface. “Mina-kun, Hino-kun...will you leave myself and Kino-kun alone for a moment?” Mina-san stood up from her seat, and grabbed Rei-san, both leaving the room without another word. The door shut quietly, leaving Makoto all alone in the big empty room with Tsukino-sama. “Mina-kun has told me a lot about your past, Kino-kun.” Makoto looked away. “Your parents died when you were young...?”

“Murdered.” Makoto felt her mouth go dry. “My father...ran into some trouble. We never saw it coming.”

Tsukino-sama closed her eyes. “He protected you, didn’t he? He made sure that you didn’t die by his killer’s hand?” Makoto looked away. “I would give up my life for Usagi,” Tsukino-sama said.

“Why us, then?” Makoto asked, her voice rising. “I’ve seen your resources, you have enough money to protect her-”

“She needs companionship.” Tsukino-sama sat back down. “Usagi is a lonely girl. I felt having companions there to protect her would help her adjust.”

“And us...?”

“Usagi grew up around Mina-kun. She sees my daughter much like a younger sibling...as does Hino-kun. Anderson-kun is the closest in age to my daughter. You, Kino-kun, I feel that you need to be strong for her.” Makoto clenched her fists again. “Please...help me protect her.”

“...you feel she’s not strong enough?” Makoto repeated slowly. “Right...I don’t know how much I’ll be needed...”

“You’ll take our offer then?” Tsukino-sama asked, extending her hand. Makoto reached out hers. “Welcome to the Tsukino Group, Kino Makoto-san.”

no_retreat @ 2007-07-18T18:17:00

2007-07-18T22:18:29Z

Title: Into That Good Night (Last Confrontations pt. 2)
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Scream
Genre: Crossover (Lost); Drama; Angst
Version: PGSM
Rating: PG-13

"John, don't!"

The flash of the muzzle lit up the trees. Makoto stopped dead in her tracks, eyes widening. "L-Locke?" she whispered. The firelight flickered across his face, highlighting the carnage before them. For one moment, time was frozen, with only Makoto and Jack staring at the body before them.

"...supplies." Makoto looked up at Jack, still in too much shock to say anything. "Go get whatever supplies you can find," Jack repeated, his voice even, "They'll be in my tent.”

"He- he's de-"

"Will you go and get them?" Jack yelled. Makoto’s legs obeyed, as her mind scrambled to form the situation. Locke's dead, Locke's dead, kept running through her mind as she sprinted towards the tents. "Mako!" Someone was calling her. "Mako, what's going on?" She kept running, and almost twisted her arm as she stumbled. She looked up at the person who'd stopped her. "What happened back there?" Hurley asked.

"Jack...medicine...Locke..." she breathed.

Hurley's face twisted. "Jack shot Locke?" Makoto shook her head furiously. "What was with the guns?" People were running towards the edge of the woods, Makoto noticed out of the corner of her eye. "He’s dead," Makoto said, quietly.

"Who's dead?"

"Locke," Makoto caught her breath, "Locke's dead, he put the gun to his head, HE'S DEAD!" she finally screamed, collapsing. "I saw him do it,” she sobbed, "Jack needs his medicine for Locke... he told me to get it..."

"Come on," Hurley dragged her back up, “Let's go."

"But...the supplies..." Makoto tried to turn back into the tent. "He doesn't need them," Hurley said quietly. They walked back towards Claire's tent, Makoto struggling to head back, and Hurley leading her away from the scene. "Why?" Makoto kept mumbling, "why would he...?"

"Where's Jack?" Makoto stumbled as they stopped in the sand, looking up at the couple...for a minute she didn't know who it was. The dark brown hair, that concerned look- Kate, that was it. And that man Sawyer. Makoto's head was still screaming questions, so much that she barely noticed Kate running off to Jack, leaving them behind. "Mako?" Hurley asked, "You all right there? Cause, uh, you're kinda shaking." She nodded.

They reached Makoto's tent in a number of seconds, Claire pacing about with Aaron in her arms. "It's not true, is it?" she asked, as Makoto sat down on her makeshift seat, "Locke’s not really..." Two nods confirmed it. "You saw it, didn't you, Mako?"

"We're getting off," Makoto said, quietly.

"Yeah," Hurley said, "but, dude-"

"Why?" Makoto clenched her fists. "Why are people still dying? Charlie's dead, and now Locke? We're supposed to go home together! It's not supposed to end like this!” Hot tears flew against her face. “Well?” Claire held Aaron tighter, and Hurley was looking out seaward. "What?" Makoto breathed.

"You hear that?" Mixed in with the crashing of the waves, there was a faint chopping sound; distant, but still audible. Makoto strained her eyes, barely making out the sight many of them had given up on weeks ago. The helicopter moved in closer, getting more and more noticeable.

no_retreat @ 2007-07-17T22:16:00

2007-07-18T02:18:02Z

Title: Tell Me Why Do You Make Me Cry?
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Domino
Genre: General; Slight Angst; Romance
Version: Animanga
Rating: G

Michiru slid the steaming cup across the counter-top. "Go through it once again, Makoto-chan; what exactly happened?" Makoto stared down at the mug in front of her, watching her reflection ripple against the ceramic. "Makoto...?"

She swallowed the bit of moisture left in her throat. "My senpai. He- well, he showed up out of nowhere."

Michiru raised her eyebrows. "Your infamous senpai?" She smiled as Makoto shot her a glare, commenting, "Well, the way you go on about it..."

"He shows up out of nowhere," Makoto continued, "acting like that nothing ever happened." She sighed. "He was with a girl from his high school too...I wasn't sure what I could say." Makoto gingerly dipped a fingertip into her mug.

Michiru took a long sip. "Maybe it’s all a coincidence...?" she said. Makoto shook her head. "Well, that’s the only reason I can come up with, Makoto-chan."

Makoto bit her lip. "He seemed to surprised to see me there...like he was expecting me to show up."

"Seems like a coincidence to me." Michiru drained the last of her tea and stood up. "Makoto-"

"I was really surprised to see him there, too, y'know?" Makoto said, wiping her eyes. "I'd thought I never wanted to see him ever again. But he just brushed me off out there...just asked how I was doing..." Michiru set done her teacup, murmuring something. "What- what did you just say?" Makoto asked, trying to control her voice.

"Je pardonne toujours, mais reviens," Michiru said, putting her hand on Makoto's shoulder, "It's a song about love," she added. " 'I'll always forgive you, if you return.'" Makoto looked down from Michiru’s face.

"Th-that's nothing to do with my situation," Makoto added hurriedly, "Why bring it up?"

"But would you forgive him if he moved on?" Makoto’s hands gripped her skirt. "You haven't seen him in a while, Makoto...why's it so important that you two met on the street?"

"Because...because I wasn't expecting it." Makoto’s eyes filled with tears again. "I knew he’d move on but...I was just..."

"Surprised?" Michiru asked. Makoto nodded. "Makoto-chan...do you still love him?"

Makoto looked back down into her now cold mug of tea. "I don't know."

AN: The song that Michiru sings, as well as the title, is called "Domino"

...Damn

2007-07-16T13:33:32Z

Title: The Importance of Thumbs
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Green Fingers
Genre: General; Romance
Version: PGSM
Rating: G

Makoto dug the spade into the dirt, turning it over as she inhaled the smell of earth. She smiled, feeling relaxed now. A bed of begonias were set up next to her, ready to planted into the plant holder she was turning dirt in.

“I don’t think they’re gonna survive,” Motoki said, placing down another set of flowers, “least, not in an apartment, anyway.”

“I’ve raised flowers in small spaces before,” Makoto murmured, pulling off the green plastic incasing the soil. “You raised a turtle in a karaoke center,” she added.

Motoki frowned. “Kamekichi’s different, Mako-chan. Flowers are a lot harder.” He watched her set two or three sets into a single plant holder, making enough room for the roots of each begonia. “What about sunlight? And air?”

“They’re going by the living room window. And one in the bedroom,” Makoto added. “The sickly one can be yours to take care of.” She pointed at a drooping purple flower. Motoki inspected it, turning it around to get a better look, spilling dirt in the process. “Ah, Mako-chan...”

“I can get it later,” she said, not really noticing as she moved on to her next plant holder.

“I don’t think that I can raise a plant.” Motoki frowned again. “You’re the one with the green thumb, not me.”

Makoto wiped her hands off, and then picked up Motoki’s plant, plopping it back down into his hands. “Have you tried to raise a plant before?”

“...Once...a daisy of my sister’s...it died in a week.” Makoto smiled. “I can help you with this, you know,” she said.

“But...what if we- I mean, I- kill it?” Motoki looked down at the forlorn little plant.

“We can always get a new one,” Makoto said, handing him the spade.

no_retreat @ 2007-07-16T00:40:00

2007-07-16T04:45:01Z

Title: Paying Attention, Or Else
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Boredom
Genre: Humor; Action
Version: Manga
Rating: PG

"What you want to do here," Jupiter said, positioning herself, "is make sure that your enemies never actually get you. Make sure that you can always dodge them." She straightened herself up, and turned back to the four younger senshi behind her. "Any questions?"

The Asteroid Senshi, as always, weren't paying attention. Ceres and Vesta were whispering about something, Juno was lounging on the grass, with Pallas sitting next to them, twisting long blades of grass together. Jupiter sighed heavily. This is why they weren't ready at all. She whistled sharply, causing all four girls to snap their heads up. "Yes, Jupiter-san?" Ceres asked, suddenly attentive.

"Were you guys even listening to me?" Jupiter said, eyeing all of them.

"Make sure that we can dodge the enemy," Juno said, not having moved from her spot on the ground. Jupiter narrowed her eyes. Pallas put down her grass braid, "Mercury-san said the same thing to us yesterday."

"Mars gave us the same lecture a week ago-"

"So did Venus-san!"

"You have to know these things!" Jupiter cut in. "It's not just all fun and games. You guys have a duty to do!"

"We know that," Vesta said, "But we've gotten the same things over and over again!"

"It's boooring," Pallas sing-songed.

"What do you want me to do?" Jupiter began to pace around. "It's not like I can call up a youma to attack you."

"Can we just have the rest of the day off, then?" Juno said, "It's not worth it, hearing the same things all the time."

Jupiter shook her head. "Fine. Go." She watched the Asteroid Senshi change back into their civilians forms, walking off towards the palace. "Well, what can I do?" she muttered.

"What was that?" Jupiter twitched as Venus stormed up to her. "That," Jupiter sighed, "was a failed training session."

"This is why Serenity doesn't think they're ready to protect the princess!" Venus huffed, "They can't pay attention!"

"Well, what do you suggest to get their attention, Venus?"

Venus thought for a moment. "Mercury mentioned something to me..."

"Do you think we were too mean to Jupiter-san?" Pallas asked the next afternoon, as the four girls headed to their training session. They would be with Mercury today, who had said that they needed to be extra prepared.

"Pfft." Ceres rolled her eyes. "Honestly, do they expect us to sit through the same thing all this time? We're so over it."

"But, maybe it is important-"

"Raargh!" The four stopped in their tracks, looking up to face a youma towering above them. "Crap!" Juno shouted, "How'd that get in the palace grounds?!"

"No time to talk!" Ceres yelled, "Everyone, go!"

"Flame Claw!" Vesta braced herself as the fire shot out, curving and slashing around the youma. The youma stumbled backwards, trying to avoid the flames. It extended one of its black arms, headed in Vesta's direction. "Vesta!" Pallas yelled, pushing her out of the way "Ice Sph- AHHH!" The arm circled Pallas instead, trapping her against the ground.

"Flower Storm!" Ceres called down a flurry of flowers, blinding the youma.
"Ivy Whip!" Juno’s whip swung around the youma, the balled end smacking into the youma, releasing Pallas.
"Flame CLAW!" Vesta threw her attack once more, successfully dusting the youma. "See," Ceres said, grinning, "We managed that one on our own!"

"WRONG!" The Asteroid Senshi looked behind, to find all four Inner Senshi glaring down at them. "You barely remembered to do anything we said!" Mars said.

"Thankfully, that youma wouldn’t have really hurt you," Mercury said, "being that it was artificial."

"Ar-artificial?" Ceres said, "Youmas aren't artificial!" Mercury pointed to the smoking body of the youma, now revealing several wires and circuitry.

"YES, ARTIFICIAL," Venus said, "I'm impressed that you dusted it, but still! Attacking without a plan!"

"But-!" Jupiter held up her hand. "Session. Now," she said.

"But-!"

"And you’d better pay attention from now on!" Venus said, as the Asteroid Senshi groaned. "I HEARD THAT."

Yes, this seems more in place with the "Training" theme, but...it works.

no_retreat @ 2007-07-14T13:34:00

2007-07-14T17:42:02Z

Title: Orientation
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Training
Genre: AU; Action, General
Version: AU (manga)
Rating: PG

Part One: Lightening Rose

Makoto stepped out of the cab, and faced the tall skyscraper looming over her. The headquarters of the Tsukino Group. This was where Winter-san had directed her to go, also to contact her whenever Makoto arrived.

The pay was good enough, and some of the recent target attempts seemed enough to satisfy Makoto. “However,” she had said during their second meeting, “if I see fit, I will leave my position.”

“You are free to do so, Kino-san,” Winter-san had replied, “although I do not recommend it.”

Makoto’s lips pursed as she thought back to that first meeting. This had better be worth what Winter-san said it was. She pushed open the large revolving doors to the building’s lobby. Makoto flicked her long ponytail over her shoulder, her bag swinging at her side. “You there!” A security guard called her over. “No one comes in without an appointment.”

One would guess that she would go for her weapons, but Makoto knew better than do anything stupid here. “I’m here as a guest of Mina Winter,” she said.

“Really.” The guard smirked. “I’m sure Ms. Winter has time to make in her schedule-”

“Actually, I do.” Winter-san appeared suddenly behind the guard. “Kino-san, so pleased you could make it.”

“Yes,” Makoto said simply.

“I can take it from here, sir,” Winter-san said with a smile. “Come with me, Kino-san. We’re all ready to begin with you.” She grabbed Makoto’s free hand and hurried her off to an elevator. “Now, we’re all done with that,” Winter-san said, “I’m glad you’ve taken up on the offer.”

Makoto looked over at her new boss. “Winter-san...”

“Call me Mina, please.” Winter-san smiled. “We’ll be working fairly close from now. I’d appreciate an air of familiarity around here.”

“Mina-san,” Makoto said. “Exactly what is your plan of operations here?” The elevator doors slid open to reveal a dark hallway. “This way,” Winter- no, Mina-san now- said, hurrying out. “The others have been waiting for your arrival, Makoto-san.”

“Others?” Makoto said, keeping up the pace.

Mina-san pushed open a door. “I’ve brought her,” she said on their entrance, “There was a bit of trouble with security.”

“About time.” A woman stood up from the table, pushing a few strands of her long, black hair out of her face. “Tsukino-sama has been asking about your new acquisition.”

Mina-san pushed Makoto in front of her. “Makoto-san, these are your fellow guards. May I introduce you to Hino Rei-san, my second-in-command,” she indicated the woman with the black hair. Hino-san extended a hand towards Makoto, saying, “Mina tells me that you’re good with defense.”

“I’d like to think that,” Makoto said.

“And that-” Mina-san said, pointing to the other side of the table, where a laptop computer was resting, with a younger girl typing furiously on it, “is Amy Anderson. I found her on an overseas trip.” The girl, Amy, waved, not taking her eyes off of the screen. Two Americans? Makoto thought, an interesting make-up. “As I’ve said, there’s several specializations in our job,” Mina-san continued, “Your training will begin immediately, Makoto-san.”

“I don’t know if I must really be trained-” Makoto started. Hino-san held up a folder. “Tsukino-sama knows of your skill with your blade,” she said, “although, it might not be enough in your position here.” Makoto was about to cut in, when a shrill ringing interrupted her. Mina-san pulled out a cell. “Yes? Yes. I’ll be right there.” She shut the phone. “Tsukino-sama would like to go over the arrangements with the pick-up,” Mina-san said to Hino, “Can you take care of Makoto-san here?” Hino-san nodded. “I’ll be back to check on your progress.”

As Mina-san left, Hino-san faced Makoto. “How are you with firearms?” she asked.

“I’m not a fan of them...they get a job done, but more of a mess,” Makoto said.

Hino pressed her lips. “Amy-san, let’s go.” The girl’s head popped up. “Are we going down to the firing range?” she asked; Makoto noted how well she spoke Japanese.

“It’s better if you started today,” Hino-san said, turning towards the door. Amy closed down her laptop and smiled at Makoto. “Don’t mind her,” she told Makoto, “she’s been wanting me to do more since I got here.”

“What is your place here?” Makoto asked. Amy blushed. “I’m...really good at making explosives,” she said quickly, “not to mention computer security.” Makoto nodded. “Mina-san has told me that you’re amazing with a sword,” Amy said.

“I’m decent,” Makoto said, quietly. The door opened again, with Hino-san looking at them annoyed. “May we get a move on?” Hino-san said.

Title: Second Helpings
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Hunger
Genre: General; Humor
Version: Anime
Rating: G

“Food...food...” Usagi was hunched over on one of the school benches. Makoto laughed. “Ate it early again?” she said, unpacking the spare bento she made just for Usagi.

The blonde’s eyes lit up then second she spotted the pink cloth. “Oh, Mako-chan! I don’t know what I’d do without you here!” She untied the knot. “Itakadekimassu!” Usagi began to stab at the food before having it snatched out of her hands. “Uh? Where’d it- Naru-chan!”

Naru held up Makoto’s bento. “Usagi-chan, I can’t believe you.”

“What? I didn’t do anything!”

“You’ve been taking advantage of Kino-san, that’s what!” Naru huffed. “I know you’re friends but having her make you lunches?”

“It’s not a problem, Naru-san,” Makoto said, “I like cooking, and Usagi likes it.”

“That is the problem!” Naru looked at Usagi. “You can’t eat your lunch right in the morning!”

“I was hungry this morning!” Usagi said, “I couldn’t help it, I overslept!” Makoto sighed, as she quietly unwrapped her rice ball. This argument could go on for hours.

The next morning, Makoto was running for the gate when she spotted Usagi, dashing as Luna hurried along. “Usagi-chan!” Makoto called out.

“Mako-chan!” Usagi slowed down, “Come on, we can still make it in time!” The two girls made it within the grounds before the first bell rang. “Yes!” Usagi shouted, jumping up.

“We’d better get moving,” Makoto said with a smile, “before Ami-” Her sentence was interrupted by a loud growling. “Usagi-chan?”

“What?”

“Did you...did you skip breakfast today?”

Usagi blushed. “Well, ah, yeah, but...but Naru-chan made me promise not to eat my lunch for breakfast! And I was hoping to show her- what are you doing, Mako-chan?” Makoto was digging in her bag, pulling out Usagi’s extra bento. “I knew you couldn’t make it through the day without this,” Makoto said.

“Yay!” Usagi hugged Makoto. “Oh, Mako-chan, thank you! I won’t eat my bento beforehand today! At least if Naru-chan doesn’t catch me...but then, this doesn’t really count!”

Backlog.

2007-07-13T17:25:44Z

Title: Proposition
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Freedom
Genre: Dark; Romance
Version: Animanga
Rating: PG

“You don’t have to be completely bound to your duty.” Nephrite leaned against the large tree, his eyes locked on Jupiter’s. “There’s so much more to your life than you know it.”

“And what makes you say that?” she said.

He moved away from his spot. “Because. I know someone who can show what your true potential is...and it’s not serving someone else.” Nephrite leaned in closer, his lips slightly touching Jupiter’s ear. She backed away cautiously, her eyes never leaving his.

“My duties are the same as yours, Nephrite,” she said, “This is the life we choose.”

“Ah. But that was before I was freed.”

Jupiter’s eyes narrowed. “You’ve left the service of Prince Endymion? Why would you...” Nephrite grabbed Jupiter’s hand and pulled her close to his body. “Come, Lady Jupiter. You really wish to spend your life in servitude to that girl? For what reason? Because it’s your duty?” He whispered in her ear. “We can work together.”

Jupiter caught her breath. “You...we...” She pushed herself away from Nephrite. Looking up, she noticed that his face had gone dark. “That...presence...” Jupiter drew herself up. “You traitor,” she whispered.

“My queen will give you all and more, Jupiter,” Nephrite said, reaching a hand out to her.

“Flower Hurricane!” The petals scattered about Nephrite, his shield surrounding him. “Your choice, Jupiter,” he said before disappearing into a dark portal. Jupiter stood for only a moment, before turning away. “I have to warn the others of this...”

Title: The Height of the Heel Makes the Girl
Author: no_retreat
Theme: “Just A Girl”- No Doubt
Genre: Humor; General
Version: Anime
Rating: PG

Makoto teetered as she tried to take a step forward. “Ahh!” She grabbed the wall in front of her. “Usagi-chan...I don’t think these are right for me.” She plopped down on a bench and began unbuckling the high heels currently strapped to her feet.

“But we have to get shoes today!” Usagi opened up another box of white heels. “Mama says the dress styles and shoes have to match.”

“I know,” Makoto jiggled the shoe off of her right foot, and began to work on the second one. “But I hate wearing heels, you know that. Makes me look like a freak.”

Usagi frowned, as Ami hurried up with another armful of boxes. “Still can’t find the right style?” Ami asked, with a look of disappointment. Usagi had planned to kidnap Ami from her studies in order to take her on this shopping trip, as her wedding with Mamoru was several months away, “and we have to pick these things out now!”

“It shouldn’t be this hard finding the right shoe style...” Usagi said sadly. “I really like this pair, maybe they’ll work.” She held up another pair- again, white, with straps to criss-cross the ankle. “The heel’s three inches,” Ami pointed out.

“Usagi, do you really want one of your bridesmaids to be taller than you?” Makoto sighed.

“I don’t think it’ll matter-”

“And not just that, I’d like to move in them as well,” Makoto said, “A low heel is fine. I won’t be towering over everyone else.”

“Especially Motoki-san?” Ami said, as she stood up to try out her pair. Makoto blushed. “He’s...he’s coming with Reika-san, isn’t he?” Makoto said quickly, “Isn’t that what Mamoru-san told you, Usagi-chan?” Makoto looked up, noticing the grin on Usagi’s face. “...what?”

“You still like Motoki-san,” Usagi said, grinning.

“That’s not really important...”

“You want to be petite for him! You still want to be his girlfriend!” Usagi giggled. “I can just imagine you cleaning up his apartment, and baking him love-love cookies-”

“SHUT UP!” Makoto shouted, her face turning a deep shade of pink. She rarely yelled at Usagi, but sometimes...sometimes...

“Aamii-chaaan.” Usagi pouted, “Mako-chan yelled at me.”

“What?” Ami had just finished a complete walk without tripping over once. “What happened?”

Makoto sighed. “Sorry, Usagi-chan...” she breathed, “But it’s not for Motoki.”

“Uh-huh. So you say.”

“Really!” Makoto grabbed a pair of the lowest heels she could find. “These are fine...it doesn’t matter what’s under the dress, right?” She looked between Usagi and Ami- Usagi was still grinning, whereas it was Ami’s turn to fluster. “I don’t mean in that way!”

“I think you do, Mako-chan.”

Oo. Crossovers!

2007-07-11T14:47:35Z

Title: Last Confrontations
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Lost
Genre: Crossover (Lost)
Version: PGSM
Rating: PG-13

WARNING: MAJOR spoilers for the Lost Season 3 finale. If you haven’t seen it, you’ve been warned.

“We are the survivors of Flight 815.” Makoto felt her heart surge in her chest. This couldn’t be real. After God knew how many months on this island, they were getting off. They were being rescued. That man- Ben, that’s what Jack had called him- looked like he had just heard that he was about to die.

Makoto bit her lip, trying to smile, but couldn’t help crying. It was over. It was really, and truly over.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The boat was on it’s way out to the island. By morning they would be off.

Makoto was trying to wring out the water that had gotten into her clothes- something that she still couldn’t figure out how it happened. We’re going home. Usagi-chan must’ve been so fraught with worry over the last three months. And Ami-chan- surely she might have blamed herself for suggesting that Makoto go on this trip. And Motoki...

Would he have assumed her dead? Probably. Given the wreckage, it was a miracle that this many people had survived. Even more so that they’ve survived for this long.
But...but...he might’ve thought that you made it out all right.

“You bastard!” The shriek cut into Makoto’s thoughts, and jarring her back into reality. She looked over in the direction of the cry. She could make out somebody with diving gear- that Diamond? Desmond, that was it- but he was on his own. And Makoto had sworn she had seen Charlie go off with him. And Claire was shouting something Makoto could barely make out.

Approaching the group, she made out the tail end of the fight. “...you let him into this!” Claire shouted, “He wanted to go down because of you!” That Desmond guy didn’t say anything. “Well? Say something, you coward!”

“Claire,” Makoto said quietly.

“He’s dead because of you!” Claire continued. “You told Charlie he was going to die. None of this would’ve happened if you hadn’t said anything!” Desmond paused in his tracks, and then muttered something. From what Makoto could figure, it was to defend his actions. It was enough for Claire to throw herself at him, kicking and yelling.

Makoto burst through the crowd, holding Claire down. “Stop it,” Makoto said, “Cool off, Claire.” Claire kept crying. “He’s gone...he’s gone...” No one else made a move towards the two women. Makoto didn’t move, letting Claire cry in her arms until the surf began to break against them.

It was still light out. They would spend their last night on the island much like the first- anticipating. Waiting to see that boat on the horizon. Makoto stuck by Claire, helping her with her baby, helping with the packing. People were coming to check on her, although Claire insisted she was “fine.”

At nightfall, though, was when something began to happen.

There had been a disturbance near the edge of the woods. Makoto felt her hairs prickle on the back of her neck. Was it the Others? Were they not truly dead?

“It’s Locke!” someone shouted. That feeling didn’t go away. Makoto felt her heart pound harder, as if she could do nothing but watch.

“Shall we go meet him?” Claire quietly asked.

“I don’t think so...” Jack had gone up to confront him...Makoto could barely make out the gun in Locke’s hand. “What’s going on?” Claire asked; at that moment, Aaron began crying.

Makoto felt her feet pushing the sand down. She was getting closer to the confrontation. I shouldn’t be involved in this! And then- “John, don’t!”

The flash of the muzzle lit up the trees.

Part two...coming soon...hopefully...

The Ways My Brain Works, Sometimes...

2007-07-10T15:30:44Z

Title: Lightening Rose
Author: no_retreat
Theme: Violence
Genre: AU; Action, Dark
Version: AU (manga)
Rating: PG-13

“Look at them.” The little girl swallowed back her tears, her captors twisting her short brown hair. “You’ve been raised by scum.” Her parents were bound and gagged; her mother’s face streaked with tears and blood, her father’s eyes flashing. “You wanna know what happens to fucking scum?” The leader of the gang pulled out his handgun, and blasted a round into her father’s chest.

She didn’t cry out. Not when her mother’s blood splattered across her white dress, not when they blew out her father’s brain. She cried silently, letting the tears stream down. But she didn’t cry out.

To get a job done, one would go to the little dive bar, right on the shore. None of the respectable vacationers to the quiet seaside town would go near that part of town, the locals acted like it didn’t exist. The bar was the haven for the best in business- normal society would have called them murderers and thieves. That was just their job description.

Which was why the bartender wasn’t too surprised by the blonde in business suit. They came whenever they needed something. “Help you?” he managed out in his best English.

“Bottle of Lightening Rose,” she replied back. Her Japanese was slightly accented.

The bartender smirked. “The back room,” he said, pointing, “There’ll be someone there.” The blonde headed in the way she was pointed, ignoring the stares and wolf-whistles and catcalls of the male (and quite a few female) patrons. She was here on a mission, and nothing was going to distract her.

The back room was marked off by a heavy, beaded curtain; a room that had seen more repair than the rest of the bar. A heavy smoke permuted the atmosphere, as a hidden, scratchy radio played foreign music softly. Sitting at a table nearest to the entrance was her target. “You are the one with Lightening Rose?” the blonde finally said.

The woman sitting at the table looked up. Her long brown hair was pulled back up, and the blonde noticed the two pink rose earrings that sparkled even in this dim light. “I may,” she said, “if you can give me a good reason.”

“I do have one, Kino Makoto-san. If you were to hear me out...?”

“Sit down.” The blonde took a seat not nearly across from Kino, only to watch her own back. “My name is Mina Winter, Kino-san,” she said, “I’m here to see if you’re interested in what our organization has to offer.”

“I’m not a trained dog- I believe you said you had a good reason.” Kino tugged on the sleeves of her shirt.

Mina pulled out a manila folder, dumping several papers onto the table. “Kino Makoto,” she started, “Alias, “The Lightening Rose.” Parents killed at age seven. Became known several years ago after the massacre of the Ryuzaki family. The reputation you’ve built up is quite impressive.”

Kino’s eyes narrowed. “May we get to the point, Winter-san?”

Minako smiled; she had heard the Rose stood for little bullshit when making a deal. “I represent the Tsukino Group. Are you familiar...?”

“Not particularly.”

“Our group is fairly influential globally. We’ve gained several political and economical allies, as well as many more enemies.” Mina drew out a photo from her papers. “My main concern is with her.” Kino took the picture from Mina’s hand, studying it. A primly dressed blonde was seated, laughing at something.

“Our president’s daughter,” Mina smiled. “I’m quite fond of the girl.” Kino placed the picture in the middle of the table as Mina continued, “Recently, we’ve suffered several...attacks. Mostly focused towards her. Her safety is her parents’ biggest concern at the moment-”

“And you want the infamous Lightening Rose to be a babysitter.” Kino pushed herself up from her seat. “Sorry. I’m not a babysitter.”

“I’m not quite finished, Kino-san.”

“I have heard enough. I’m not interested.” Kino began to head towards the door. “You should have made it worth my time.” Kino had barely touched the curtain when a dagger pinned the cloth to the doorframe. Kino spun around, seeing Mina holding another one in her hand. “I said I wasn’t finished, Kino-san.”

“I said I heard enough,” Kino grabbed the sword hilt, with great speed. “I’m asking politely, leave before you regret it.” Mina smirked. “A bad choice...” Makoto said.

She lunged towards the blonde, bringing the blade close enough to shave a few golden hairs from her head. Kino quickly avoided a kick towards her torso, allowing for Mina to hurl another dagger in her direction. That one caught Kino in the shoulder, slicing open the shirt and a thin line of blood appeared.

Mina, unfortunately, found herself laying flat against a table, the blunt end of Kino’s sword at her throat. “Spit it out,” Kino growled.

Mina spoke carefully, as not to aggravate Kino to press the sharper edge of her blade further. “My group is looking for bodyguards, yes. We are an elite team, with personal strengths and weaknesses. You were personally recommended to me.” The pressure was lifted, but only slightly. “I suggest that you come with me to inspect our operation.”

Kino withdrew her blade. “You still wish for me to babysit this girl?”

Mina began to gather her papers, her eye trained on Kino. “I wouldn’t refer to it as babysitting.”

“Then what is this job?” Mina only smiled, before saying, “It's a commitment, Kino-san.”

AN: Still fleshing it out a bit. I've got to come up with the bulk of the storyline, and a couple changes to a few characters...I hope this little bit's not too confusing.