Sailor Moon Fan Fiction ❯ Her Battle ❯ … Sarawareta Mars! ( Chapter 19 )

Shadowcub - That wasn't exactly how I was trying to portray him. (thinks) I'll try to do a better job, but I don't want his actions to be easily understandable either though.

 

Tenkaichi - Glad to hear I surprised you. I wanted to get enough done in that one to know I could get everything I need to be done in this chapter, if that makes any sense. Honestly, I surprised myself with how long it ended up being, 13,585 words.

 

LightningStrikes - Ok, kid ; P Since the Ami/Makoto storyline is only a subplot here, I know I have a tendency to put it on the back burner sometimes, but that's only to advance the main plot. And believe me, without advancing the main plot, the Ami/Makoto storyline will go nowhere. “Anything by you is worth reading.” :blushes: That's so sweet of you to say, thank you. Umm, do you mind I abbreviate your name to LS; it's easier then typing out LightningStrikes every time. Oh, and good luck with your gf :)

 

Serena CrystalMoon - I understand your meaning now then. Ah, the actual confession, I already have it written out, but I can't tell when it might happen. You're pretty much right with the title. I was going for `Evil's Ambition', but it could also be `Ambition of Evil'; they mean the same thing anyway.

 

ShoujoGirl - Thank you. I'm glad I could show you that Rei/Usa stories aren't all that bad. I hope you continue to enjoy the upcoming chapters :)

 

Kenshkrix - Thank you and who has displayed OOCness?

 

ms - Wow, thank you for taking the time to write all that! :blushes: Thank you for all your compliments. I think I'm ability to capture the characters comes from my love of them. I mean, each is so unique and awesome in their own way, but that also makes them difficult to write at times too. Rei's angst won't reach the level she experienced in Kirika's `Absence', but my primary inspiration for writing my own fanfic was `Absence', so… I could never make Mamoru into a jerk for a couple reasons; first, he is a good guy, at least I believe so, and I've always said and told other writers that the personal feelings of the author should not be reflected in his or her portrayal of any character. Second, its way too easy and I do not intend to take the easy way out here. Thank you for being the first to mention Chibi-Usa. She is very important even if I haven't really mentioned her, but I've done that for a reason, but again I can't say here. I'll just say you'll understand by the end of the story. ;) What do you think my next fic should be about now? Oh and don't worry, I felt you were coherent, at least enough for me ; ) Oh, and if you would have left your e-mail I could have given you a better response, but I can't take up page to reply here (and believe me I could too).

 

Lokiador - Ah, the Rei and Mamoru confrontation, it was essentially Rei venting some emotions she hadn't previously said aloud. I wrote out a different scenario for her to go off on someone else, but realized it didn't work well, so Mamoru was just an easy second choice.

 

I'm surprised there weren't any comments some more specific things, but I guess I gave you guys a lot to digest in the last chapter. I don't have anything else to say, so I'll let the chapter speak for itself. This starts right where the other left off…

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

Chapter 19 - … Sarawareta Mars!

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

“There's no way…you can't be her…”

 

“You still keep saying that, even after all I've shown you? Look at me…look at this!” She commanded and held her wrist up to Setsuna. “You know there is no one else that could have this.”

Setsuna stared at the woman wrist, `That's…'

 

~~~~******~~~~

Flashback ??? years ago

 

Pluto stood over a young girl with short black hair and looked down at her fondly. The girl was dressed in a long black dress that fit her body snugly. She was well developed even though she could be no older than sixteen years old. Pluto, on the other hand, was dressed in a uniform reminiscent of her Sailor fuku.

 

“I'm not really supposed to do this, but…” Pluto said removed a silver bracelet from her left wrist. “Give me your left hand.” She commanded. The young girl did as commanded and Pluto put the silver band around her wrist.

 

“Y-You're giving this to me?” She asked, clearly taken aback.

 

Pluto nodded her head slightly, “Yes. Think of it as a congratulatory present on finishing your training.”

 

The girl's eyes filled with tears and she ran to Pluto and wrapped her arms around the taller woman, Pluto responded in kind. The girl buried her face into Pluto's chest, “Thank you. Thank you.” She whispered over and over again.

 

“Just don't tell anyone, okay?” Pluto said and roughed up the young girl's hair.

 

“Hai, I won't Plu-chan.” She chirped and added seriously, “I'll treasure it forever…”

 

End Flashback

~~~~******~~~~

 

Setsuna stopped her retreat, `How can she be here? How could I have not known?' Setsuna was in a state of shock; she couldn't seem to find her voice anymore either. Setsuna looked the woman over, there was no doubt, `She's older, but there's no doubt. But still, how?'

 

“There are variables to every situation, you told me that once or have you forgotten? Nothing is certain. Or was that all a lie to let me think we weren't all bound by destiny?” She said and stepped even closer to Setsuna, extending her hand as she did.

 

“Don't come any closer!” Setsuna yelled and backed further away, out of the woman's reach.

 

“Now that's rather harsh. You run away from my touch even after all this time. I guess time can't heal all wounds can it, Plu-chan?” She said with a sinister smile.

 

“Don't you dare call me that! You lost your right to call me that after what you tried to do!” Setsuna said angrily.

 

“You're still this upset over that? She survived that didn't she? Well, that is thanks to you, that girl, and her.” She said, adding a resentful tone at the end. She stopped her approach of the taller woman, but Setsuna continued to eye her cautiously.

 

“How could you think I wouldn't still be upset over that? You betrayed me...” Setsuna said sounding hurt.

 

“I never betrayed you. Everything I did, I did for you.”

 

“You still say that? I never asked you to do anything for me! I was perfectly fine with my place in everything.” Setsuna said.

 

“And you're still saying that lie. I guess you can't be honest with me until I free you.” The woman said with an evil smirk.

 

“What are you saying?” Setsuna asked, fearing the other woman's response.

 

“I think you know what I'm saying…the only way to shatter the bonds of destiny is through death. I think you know whose life I seek.”

 

`Usagi!' Setsuna's eyes widened and they held emotions she hadn't truly felt in a long time; they held shock and fear. “I won't let you!”

 

“Pluto Planet…!”

 

The other woman sighed and moved like quick silver. She was beside Setsuna in an instant and grabbed her hand before she could finish her henshin phrase. Setsuna looked at arm, where the other woman held it and glared at it. The woman uttered some inaudible words and Setsuna looked at her in shock, “You wouldn't dare…”

 

The woman just smiled and finished her chant by saying, “Stop.” The woman released Setsuna arm and walked around Setsuna so she was standing behind her. Setsuna tried to move her arm, but found it to be frozen. Despite knowing the uselessness of it, she tried to move her leg, but as before, she found herself frozen in place. “Now, that's much better.” The woman said and smiled again. She reached up and moved Setsuna's long green hair off the back of her neck and placed it over her right shoulder. She slowly moved closer to Setsuna exposed neck before pausing for a moment to speak, “You know with you in this position there are so many things I can think of doing…” she said lustfully and moved her lips even closer to her neck before stopping mere centimeters away from her skin, “…but it wouldn't be any fun if you weren't a willing participant.” She said and pulled away. “Which brings us back to the matter at hand…”

 

Setsuna finally felt a little more at ease when she could feel the other woman wasn't as near, “Why do you aim for the Princess' life? She's never done anything to you.”

 

“You must know if I just wished for her demise, she would be dead already. However, such a death is too simple, too quick, for her daughter.”

 

“How dare you speak of her in such as disrespectful manner?!” Setsuna said.

 

“I've already immobilized you, don't make me silence you as well.” The woman warned and waited a moment to see if Setsuna was going to say anything else, when she didn't she continued. “As I was saying, I wish for her to suffer. Death is quick and once it's done, that's it, there's nothing more. I can't derive any satisfaction merely from death. However, if I can insure she suffers, not only physical pain, but emotional, I can truly be satisfied knowing she suffered so.”

 

“What the hell have you become?” Setsuna asked.

 

“Nothing more then I was made to be.” The woman replied with no emotion.

 

“I never taught you be a cold and sadistic killer.”

 

“I'm not here to discuss the past because that's all it is, the past. The past is something that can not be changed, its events have already happened and for better or for worse we must live with it.” The woman said somewhat sadly. “The future on the other hand is not set, you most of all must know this. There are many variables in the threads of time, but all lead to some point in the future. That's something you told me, right? If something comes along and servers all of those threads, what future can we expect?”

 

“That's not possible. Once a thread has been started, it can't be severed by any mortal. To suggest that one can sever all of the threads of time is impossible.” Setsuna said.

 

“I have to disagree. Even the strongest threads can be broken when enough pressure is applied. I'm proof of that.” The woman said waited to see Setsuna reaction, but she didn't get one. The woman gathered that either she was thinking it over or was at a loss for words; which ever it was the woman continued, “You didn't see my coming and I've used that to my advantage. You must remember the first step; you looked into the Gates for insight into the threat on Earth. You didn't get any information on that, did you? Of course you didn't. Instead, you were given the impression that a soldier would soon jeopardize the future, and you weren't at all wrong. I let you take that information and do as you pleased, however even I didn't know you would you aid me as much as you've done.”

 

“What do you mean? You can't manipulate the Gates.” Setsuna said. She was unsure of where this was going, but knew it wasn't going to be anything she wanted to hear.

 

“You're right, I can't manipulate the Gates, but I didn't have to. The mind is far easier to manipulate, you assumed the conclusions you came to were your own?” The woman said and walked in front of Setsuna again, “Did you ever doubt yourself? Did you ever wonder if what you were doing was right?”

 

Setsuna stared at her in shock. Her own thoughts resurfaced in her mind, `If I doubt myself, what can I believe in?'

 

“Yes, if you can't trust your own thoughts, where does that leave you? Yet you continued to press on despite that small doubt. You went and did something unnecessary; you called the Prince back to Tokyo. You forced me to speed up my plans, but as it turns out this may be for the best. For even as we speak, I've set into motion the unstoppable events that will lead to the downfall of this destiny that has bound everyone for far too long.”

 

“What do you mean? What are you planning?” Setsuna demanded.

 

“Shh…” the woman said and put her forefinger to Setsuna's lips, “If I tell you everything that will ruin the surprise, and I can't have that.” She pulled her hand away when she realized Setsuna wanted to say something.

 

“Have you not learned anything? The past is for that too, you should learn from it. I believe I taught you that as well.” Setsuna said.

 

“I have learned from the past. I've learned not to underestimate my opponents, no matter how insignificant they seem to be.” The woman said her hand subconsciously the back of her thigh through her black clothing. “I've learned the extinction of the Serenity blood line is the key to freedom.”

 

“What will it take for you to stop this madness?”

 

“I think you already know the answer to that.” The woman replied.

 

“That's not possible.” Setsuna said firmly.

 

“Then it's as I expected. You can't think for yourself until you've been freed.” She said and started to back away slowly. “It's been so long and yet you haven't changed one bit.”

 

“Stop this!”

 

“This doesn't stop until the Moon Princess is dead.” The woman said and backed away until she was one with the room's shadows once again.

 

Once the woman's presence had completely vanished Setsuna could feel she was free to move again. She dropped her henshin stick and walked unsteadily over to the desk she was sitting at just a short time ago. She slammed her fist as hard as she could in to, “Damn it! I was helpless before her again. How the Hell can she be here?” She said and slammed her fist into the desk again. After the seconded slam resonated through the room the door open with a loud boom.

 

“Setsuna, what's going on down here? I heard some noises coming from down here.” Haruka yelled and ran into the room when she saw Setsuna.

 

Setsuna looked up at Haruka, “We need to talk about some things.” She said seriously.

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

Yuuichirou was walking down the hallway that would lead him past Rei's room when the sight of Rei standing by her door caught his eye. `I wonder what she's looking at.' He thought and slowly approached the girl. He walked up behind her and put his hand on her shoulder. Rei reacted almost instantly by shifting her weight away from where she felt the person causing him to stumble forward a little. Before he could react, Rei was behind him and holding him against the wall, demanding to know who he was.

 

“Calm down, Rei it's just me.” Yuuichirou said franticly. Yuuichirou breathed a sigh of when he felt Rei release him, `Where did she learn something like that? She moved before I could do anything.'

 

“What the Hell are you doing, coming up behind me like that?” Rei yelled.

 

Yuuichirou turned to Rei, “I'm sorry, I was just worried.”

 

“You don't need to be worried; I don't need anyone to be worried about me.” Rei said.

 

“You know people only feel like that because they care about you.” Yuuichirou said, but Rei remained quiet. Every so often, she would glance at the door beside them and soon this drew Yuuichirou's attention. “Why were you staring so intently at this door?” Yuuichirou asked when they heard a voice from the other side of the door. Both of them looked at the door at that time.

 

“I'll go check it out.” Rei said and started toward the door when Yuuichirou stepped in front of her.

 

“I don't think so. I'll go see and you wait here.” Yuuichirou said.

 

“No, I'll do it. It's my room.” Rei said determinedly.

 

Yuuichirou knew how Rei could be and therefore knew there would be no going in there without her. Yuuichirou took and deep breath and decided a compromise would be best, “Why don't we go in there together then?”

 

“Fine.” Rei said, but she still sounded a little annoyed. The two headed to the door and when they reached it Rei spoke again, “I'll go in first.” She said in a very serious tone. `Whatever's beyond this door…it doesn't feel human.'

 

Yuuichirou wasn't given much of a choice because right after Rei spoke she slid open the door and slipped inside. Yuuichirou quickly followed behind, but he didn't get far because Rei was only a few steps inside the room when she stopped. Rei was staring straight ahead and Yuuichirou followed her eyes to see where she was looking.

 

Sitting in the middle of the room was a rather disheveled man. He sat cross-legged and with his head down, so his face was not very visible. `He looks like a homeless man…' Yuuichirou thought. “I'm sorry, but if your looking for a place to rest you have to go to a different part of the jinja.” He said, but the man gave no response.

 

Yuuichirou started to walk toward the man, but Rei grabbed his arm, “Don't approach him.” Yuuichirou looked and Rei and back to the man, who was lifting his head up. The seated man glared at Yuuichirou, but when his gaze traveled to Rei, a sinister smirk crossed his lips.

 

“Who are you and what are you doing here?” Yuuichirou asked and stood protectively in front of Rei. Rei gave him an irritated look, but didn't say anything.

 

“I'm merely a fan, just a fan of the great Miko that resides here, the great fire seer Hino Rei.” He replied.

 

`That voice…he's the youma from the hospital.' Rei thought to herself.

 

“Be that as it may, visitors are not allowed in this part of the jinja.” Yuuichirou stated.

 

“What?” the man said, sounding irritated. “I came here to speak with the great Miko of this shrine, not to exchange words with a simple human. If you don't cease your false bravery I will become angered and you do not want that.” He said and started to rise.

 

Yuuichirou was about to make another comment when Rei spoke up, “Leave us, Yuuichirou.”

 

Yuuichirou turned to Rei and whispered, “I'm not going to leave you alone with this stalker.”

 

“This is not your choice here, Yuuichirou.” Rei said and stared at Yuuichirou until he backed down, which he did reluctantly.

 

Rei watched Yuuichirou as he made his way to the door but he stopped before leaving and spoke to Rei again, “I don't think this is good idea.” Rei didn't say anything but continued to watch Yuuichirou leave. Finally, Yuuichirou stepped through the door and slid it shut, allowing Rei to devote her full attention to the unwelcome intruder.

 

“Do me a favor and get rid of that ridiculous disguise.” Rei said disguisedly, `It's just one unwelcome visitor after another today.' She thought to herself.

 

“As you wish, it's not as though I enjoy posing as a human.” Kenjiro said and a dark light filled the room for a few seconds. When the light faded, Kenjiro stood before Rei as she saw him the other night.

 

“What is it that you want? I'm sure you didn't come here to chat.” Rei said seriously and started to reach into her kimono.

 

Kenjiro smiled at the girl's forthcoming tone, “I am here to talk in fact. So you can take her hand off you henshin stick.”

 

“I think I'm comfortable the way I am.” Rei responded, but Minako's words echoed her mind.

 

~

“So as leader the Princess bodyguard I hereby order to avoid any and all battles to the best of your ability until further notice.”

~

 

`I won't transform unless I need to, but I still have that threat.'

 

“Suit yourself.” Kenjiro said and started walking around the room, as if he was inspecting his surroundings. Rei eyed him warily as he walked. “Is this your room?” Kenjiro asked and grabbed a photo frame from the dresser.

 

“Get your filthy hands off of that.” She said seriously.

 

Kenjiro smiled at her again before smashing the frame against the dresser. He brushed aside the shattered glass and removed the photo, “I see…” he said and examined the picture, “…your friends.” He said as a statement rather then a question.

 

“If you don't let go of that I'll…” Rei started to threaten, but Kenjiro interrupted her before she could finish.

 

Kenjiro torn his eyes off the photo and looked at Rei, “Don't make threats you can't back up. I'm merely trying to start up a conversation here and you resort to threatening me.”

 

“Don't make me laugh, creatures like you don't have any interest in talking. Just say what you came here to say before I take my frustrations out on you.” Rei said and glared the youma with hatred in her eyes.

 

“Frustrations? Don't tell me everything isn't perfect in the life of the Sailor Senshi?” Kenjiro said with a smirk.

 

Rei tightened her grip on her henshin stick, `He's just trying to provoke me.' She told herself and loosened her grip a little. “Why don't you just come here to say what you wanted to say and leave?”

 

Kenjiro cocked his head to the side, “Is something wrong? I seem to remember you being one to jump into a fight, what's with your hesitation today? I hear you didn't hesitate when you killed my brother last night.”

 

“What?!”

 

“You must remember it was only last night.” Kenjiro said.

 

`I didn't kill any youma last night…Usagi did. Is that what this is about? Better me then Usagi.' Rei thought to herself. “Oh, you mean that coward of a youma was related to you?”

 

“Yes, and despite being an idiot, he was still my blood and I'll have my revenge for him.” Kenjiro said confidently. “In fact, I have a proposition for you.”

 

“What kind of proposition?” Rei asked.

 

Kenjiro smiled sinisterly, “It's simple. You're a nuisance. A nuisance that must be eliminated, but I'm a fair man.” Kenjiro said noticed the disgusted look
Rei gave him. “…So to speak. I am willing to give you fair fight, a one on one fight. I chose the location, though.”

 

“And if I refuse…”

 

“I was hoping you would ask that. If you refuse I will personally take away what is precious to you. It would be so easy too. If someone with your senses could not notice me until I let you, someone with no ability to sense presences would be too easy. Do you think a Princess' bleeds as normal humans do?”

 

“I'll kill you if you try to lay one finger on her.”

 

“Then, you accept…” Kenjiro said quietly.

 

Rei didn't even take time to think it over, `I won't let him get away with threatening Usagi.' “Just tell me when and where.” She said in a deathly calm voice.

 

The youma smiled again, “I'm glad, this time there will be no interruptions. You agree to that stipulation?”

 

“Just tell me when and where!” Rei said angrily.

 

“Fine, tonight at seven your time, in Ichinohashi Park. You do know where that is?”

 

“Of course I know where that is! Now leave, before I decide to start it right here.” Rei ordered.

 

Kenjiro smiled again, “I don't think you'd that, but I guess it is time that I took my leave. I will be eagerly awaiting next encounter.” he said and disappeared in flash of dark light.

 

A moment later Yuuichirou burst through the door, “Are you alright?!”

 

Rei turned and looked annoyed by Yuuichirou's rather loud entrance. “What do you want Yuuichirou?”

 

“I just wanted to know if you're alright. He didn't do anything to you did he?”

 

Rei walked over to her futon and sat down heavily on it and put head in her hands, “No.” she said quietly. Rei waited for a few minutes and expect Yuuichirou to leave, but she realized that he was still there, “Is there something else?”

 

“Umm…” he mumbled. `Should I ask her about what I heard?'

 

“What is it?” Rei asked, a little irritated by his lack of an answer.

 

“Rei-san, umm…why are you meeting that guy again?”

 

“What are you saying?” Rei asked quickly, but maintained her calm exterior for the most part.

 

“Well, I kinda overheard…”

 

“You were eavesdropping!” Rei stood up and yelled.

 

Yuuichirou put up his hands defensively, “No, that wasn't it. I just happened to hear the end, where that guy that you would meet again tonight.”

 

`Damn it, he wasn't supposed to hear any of that.' Rei thought. “It's none of your concern; this is just something that I need to do.”

 

“What do you mean? You can't just go and do this by yourself!”

 

“This is not up for discussion. You would do best to forget anything you heard.” Rei said and sat back down.

 

“What? This is something the police should handle.”

 

`The police?' “Listen to me; if I don't do this, there are worse things that could happen. I have to do this and that the end of this discussion.” Rei said with a tone of finality at the end.

 

“But…”

 

“No, buts and this does not leave this room got it.”

 

“You want me to lie just so you go and put yourself in danger?” Yuuichirou asked.

 

“No, I'm telling you to keep this to yourself. If care about me, even a little bit, you will keep this to yourself.” Rei said seriously.

 

“Rei…” Yuuichirou started to say, but Rei spoke over him.

 

“Tell me you'll keep this to yourself.”

 

Yuuichirou looked at Rei, `She's serious, but how can I…' he thought.

 

“Yuuichirou…” Rei said.

 

He bowed his head to spoke, “Fine, but I still don't agree with this.”

 

“You don't have agree; just keep your word.” Rei said and sighed. “Could you leave me, then? I think I need to rest.” Yuuichirou kept his head low and exited the room, wordlessly. `Please don't be upset with me Minako. Putting my safety ahead of Usagi's is just something I can't do.' Rei thought before she closed her eyes and fell back on to her futon to try and sort her mind through everything.

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

“What was that all about?” Makoto and Ami asked together when Usagi returned to their booth with a worried expression.

 

When Usagi heard the question, she flashed them a bright smile, but her two friends knew her well enough to know that wasn't one of her real smiles. “I'm not too sure, but Minako will find her and let us know if she's alright.” Usagi said and the other two girls nodded their heads slowly. Even as she finished her answer, Usagi glanced back at the door to see Minako leaving.

 

The girls were silent for a few minutes when Motoki brought over their orders, “Here ya go.” He said and noticed the booth was minus two people, “Where did Minako-chan and Rei-chan go?”

 

None of the girls seemed eager to answer his question, but finally Makoto spoke up, “They went outside, but they should be back soon.”

 

“Oh, well I hope you girls enjoy your orders.” Motoki said and went back to work.

 

Again, the booth was silent, except for the occasional sipping of soda. Ami watched Usagi as she played with another french-fry. `She's barely touched her food even though she said she was so hungry earlier.' Ami thought. Ami put down her drink and finally decided to ask what was on her mind, “You're worried about her, aren't you?”

 

“Huh?” Usagi asked looking up from her food.

 

“Did you even hear anything I said Usagi?” Ami asked, but she only meet Usagi's confused gaze.

 

“I'm sorry, I must have zoned out for a moment there.” Usagi apologized.

 

“Usagi, it's alright to be worried. We're a little worried too, right Ami?” Makoto said, picking up where Ami left off.

 

“Yeah, Minako will find her and get to come back with her so we can see what's wrong.” Ami added.

 

“Thanks guys. I guess we just have to wait then.” Usagi said and added a smile at the end, bringing a smiled to the other girl's faces as well.

 

After that Usagi seemed to eat more and both Ami and Makoto looked relieved at that. When all three had already finished their orders and there was still no sign of Minako or Rei, all three girls could feel the worry increase at the booth once again.

 

“It shouldn't be taking this long should it?” Usagi asked Ami and Makoto.

 

Neither girl knew what to say and now they were both starting to get worried as well. Finally, Makoto spoke up, “Maybe I should…” she started offer when they heard the bell at the door. All three girls looked up at the entrance to see Minako walking into the Crown. They kept looking, expecting Rei to follow in behind her, but she was alone.

 

Minako made her way over to the booth she knew her friends were at and put on one of her perfect smiles when she got there. “I'm sorry guys I guess Rei really wasn't feeling well. I didn't try to make her come back.” Minako said apologetically. She to each girl to gauge her reaction, both Ami and Makoto seemed to reluctantly accept what Minako said after a little thought, after all why would Minako lie? Usagi seemed even more reluctant than the other two girls did.

 

“Are you sure Minako? She seemed fine when she was here earlier and even last night.” Usagi inquired. Ami and Makoto gave Usagi curious looks, but Minako didn't seem at all surprised.

 

Minako put her hand on Usagi's shoulder and squeezed it gently, “It's nothing to worry about, I promise.” Minako smiled at Usagi and she couldn't help but return the gesture.

 

“Umm…Usagi, what do you mean by last…?” Makoto started ask, but the bell at the entrance caused her to pause and look up instinctively. Stepping through the entrance she saw a tall man with short black hair, someone she hadn't seen in quite some time.

 

The man made his way casually over to booth where the four girls sat, “May I sit here?” he asked, startling Minako and Usagi a little because they didn't have a clear view of the door to see he was coming.

 

Usagi stood up and hugged the taller man, “Oh, Mamo-chan I'm glad you're here. We were just going to talk about what happened last night.” she said and released him before she slid down in the booth so he had room to sit.

 

The three other girls watched the couple with some interest. A while back Rei talked to them and told them not to bring Mamoru up around Usagi, unless Usagi started the conversation. Even though they were curious why, they agreed. A few days after that they learned why when Usagi told them that Mamoru left the country. She didn't go into details, but the girls could tell it wasn't a happy parting. Whatever happened didn't seem to be effecting them now though.

 

“Umm, Usagi what were you saying about last night?” Ami asked.

 

“It all started when I went over to Rei's last night…” Usagi explained. Usagi explained most of what happened the previous night and what she didn't explain, Mamoru filled in. The three girls listened to events closely and tried to figure anything they could from the events, “…And that's everything that happened.”

 

`So that's what happened…it seems as though the youma timed his attacks carefully. He wasn't stupid either; he had knowledge of how to go about fighting them, by the sound of it. Mamoru showing up must have thrown him off…' Minako thought as she tapped her finger on the table.

 

“What are you thinking, Minako?” Ami asked.

 

Minako stopped tapping her finger on the table and looked up at the group, “These youma seem to be getting stronger. I mean, after we defeat one of them another one come along that's even stronger then that last one.”

 

“That does seem to be a trend…” Makoto added.

 

“They don't seem stupid either. They plan their attacks in advance and have back-ups ready, or at least it seems that way.” Ami said thoughtfully.

 

“There's got to be kind of connection though.” Usagi chimed in.

 

“Have these youma expressed any interest in anything in particular?” Mamoru asked.

 

Minako bit her lip, and didn't say anything. Ami glanced over curiously at Minako, her small movement didn't going unnoticed by the blue haired girl. Before Ami had a chance to question her, Usagi spoke, “Not as far as I can tell, but we have been curious about a few things.”

 

“Like what?” he asked.

 

“Well, they seem to have knowledge of our identities, or at least Rei's.” Usagi said.

 

“How's that?” Mamoru asked.

 

“They have attacked Rei without her revealing herself to be Mars and now going by what Usagi just said, he must have some knowledge of who she is as well. On top of that, the jinja has been attack on one occasion before.” Minako said.

 

“Have you tried to follow up on that?” He asked curiously.

 

“We've tried, but these youma don't leave many clues behind.” Ami said a little dejectedly.

 

“We'll just have to keep looking.” Makoto said and smiled at Ami.

 

“We won't let them have their way though. What ever their plans are, we'll stop them.” Usagi declared.

 

Everyone looked at Usagi in surprise, Usagi wasn't usually the type to make strong statements like that. `That sounds more like Rei.' Minako thought and smiled. “That's what we're here for isn't it? Stop evil's ambitions, whether their ambition is to take over the world or destroy it, we'll be there to stop them.” Minako added.

 

“Yeah, I'm sure we're bound to get a break that will help learn about this enemy.” Ami said optimistically.

 

“We haven't fought an enemy that doesn't have a weakness and I'm sure this enemy is no different.” Makoto joined in.

 

Mamoru looked pleased, `Is this what I was missing? The optimism these girls have truly amazes me.'

 

“Well I don't know about everyone else, but I need to get going.” Minako said. `Maybe if I do some searching I'll something, I hope I'm just being over protective of her.'

 

“Now that you brought it up, I should get going too.” Ami said. `If I leave with Minako, maybe I can find out what she's keeping from us.'

 

“Yeah me too.” Makoto said. `I wonder what Minako knows, that she's not saying.'

 

“Everyone's leaving?” Usagi asked.

 

Everyone apologized and Mamoru spoke up, “I'm not leaving”

 

Usagi seemed to brighten up a bit, but still looked a little downcast. Everyone apologized again, but Usagi said, “It's ok, if you have to go, you have to go.” The girls felt a little guilty about leaving Usagi, but each had their own things they were looking to accomplish once they left.

 

Mamoru and Usagi watched as the three girls filed out of the arcade. Once the girls shut the door Mamoru looked over Usagi, but she still had her gaze fixated on the door, as if she were expecting someone to come through it. `She seems more reserved then usual, I wonder if it has anything to do with…'

 

“Say Usako, are you free tonight?”

 

Usagi looked away from the door and over to the man sitting next to her, “I don't have any plans for tonight.”

 

Mamoru smiled a little, “Well, if that's the case, would you mind doing something tonight?”

 

“What did you have in mind?” Usagi asked curiously.

 

“Could we just have dinner and talk? Would that be alright?” Mamoru asked.

 

Usagi took a moment to think about before answering, “I think I would enjoy that.” she said with a reserved smile.

 

“Good, do you want me to take you home to change?” Mamoru asked.

 

Usagi thought about and looked down at herself, “Is what I'm wearing alright?”

 

Mamoru smiled at her, “If that's what you want to wear…” he said and she nodded her head `yes', “Then it's fine.” Usagi blushed a little under his gaze and he just smiled at her again before standing up and extending his hand to her, “I know it's still early, but do you want to get then? We can talk and walk for a while before go out.”

 

Usagi took the offered hand and stood, “I would like that.” she and the couple walked out of the Crown, but not before say their goodbyes to Motoki.

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

“Minako?”

 

“Yeah Ami?” Minako responded.

 

“Is there anything more that you're not telling us?” Ami asked her seriously.

 

“What do you mean?” Minako asked, putting on her best `dumb blonde act'.

 

“I think you know exactly what I'm talking about Minako. I don't know if you're trying to keep something from Usagi or from all of us, but I'm sure there's more going on with Rei that you're not telling us.” Ami said.

 

“Why would I…?” Minako started to say, but Makoto finally decided to add her thoughts.

 

“I don't want to think you're lying to us, Minako, but I got the same impression Ami did.” Makoto said. When she noticed Minako's reaction, she added more, “If you are withholding stuff from us I'm sure you have a good reason to, but whatever it is, don't you think we can figure everything out better if all of us know everything.”

 

Minako lowered her head, `I can't tell them everything, but may I should let them know a little more.' “Fine, I'll tell you what I can.” Minako conceded.

 

“That's all we ask.” Makoto said and looked at Minako expectantly.

 

Ami looked over to Makoto and smiled her thanks, `I guess my persuasive skills need a little work.' She thought and turned her attention fully to Minako.

 

Minako lifted her head to meet her friends expecting expressions. She took a deep breath before starting, “I'm a little worried that this enemy hasn't made any real movements. We've fought in little skirmishes here and there, but I'm sure there's more to it then that. At first glance, all the attacks thus far may seem random, but I don't think they are. All of them have had one thing in common…”

 

“…Rei?” Ami thought aloud and Minako nodded her head slowly.

 

Makoto looked over at Ami for a second before thinking about it herself, `She's right. That's the one common thread.' Makoto looked back at Minako and asked the first question that came to mind, “What does all of this mean though?”

 

“I don't know, but that's what I'm trying to figure out. When I caught up with Rei she told me about last night and I did the only thing I could think of to buy us some more time. I ordered her not to transform, unless she ended up in a life or death situation.” Minako said.

 

“She couldn't have been happy about that.” Makoto commented.

 

“Well, she wasn't pleased, but I think she understands where I'm coming from.” Minako responded.

 

“Why didn't you let Usagi know about this?” Ami asked curiously.

 

“I didn't want to worry her. I think this is something we can handle ourselves without worrying Usagi.” Minako said.

 

“Are you sure? Don't you think this is something she should be told?” Ami asked.

.

“For the moment, I think its best we kept her out of this.” Minako said, reaffirming her stance. Minako looked at Ami and hoped that that would the last of her questions. Ami was very perceptive and her questions were probably for her to figure everything out.

 

Ami was quiet, but she seemed to be thinking over everything and after a deep breath, she finally spoke, “Alright, but still think you should tell Usagi the conclusions you've come to.”

 

“I understand that, but this is only until we can get some real evidence. I trust my instincts, but I haven't always been right.” Minako said.

 

“I'm with Minako, for now…there's no sense in worrying Usagi if there's nothing to worry about. I do wish you had talked with us about this before, Minako, and in the future I hope you don't leave us out of the loop.” Makoto said.

 

“I don't plan on it.” Minako assured them.

 

“That's good to hear, right Ami?”

 

“…Yeah.” Ami said after a moment.

 

“If that's it, I should really be going…” Minako said and took step away from the two girls for effect.

 

“I trust you'll keep us up to date with everything, Minako. And you'll let us know if you find out anything.” Makoto said and watched Minako nod her head before heading off. Makoto turned to Ami, “What do you say we do some investigating on our own?” she said with a smile.

 

Ami looked at Makoto curiously, “What are you proposing?”

 

Makoto's smile grew when Ami didn't turn the idea down out right, “Let's head over to the park where they fought last night. Maybe there are some clues there; it's worth a shot at least. What do you say?”

 

“Sure.” Ami replied.

 

“Then it's a date, I just need to…” Makoto stopped when she noticed freeze up after what she said. “Are you alright, Ami?”

 

Ami quickly shook her head to come back down to reality, `It's just a figure of speech.' Ami told herself. “Sorry, I'm alright. Please continue.”

 

Makoto looked at Ami with a confused expression, but left it at that, “Well, I was going to say I want to go home and change, so you could do the same if you wanted to. I'll come by your place after I'm done, since it's closer to the park.”

 

“Alright, see you then.” Ami said and hurried off.

 

Makoto watched her leave for a few minutes, but she didn't look back. `Did I say something to cause her to run off so quickly?' Makoto thought and sighed quietly, `I'll ask her later.' She thought and started to head toward her own house.

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

“But if what you're saying is true…” Haruka thought aloud.

 

“We need to always have someone within reach of Usagi.” Setsuna said.

 

“Usagi's in danger?” Michiru asked from the doorway. Both women turned to the door and Haruka got up quickly and walked over to her.

 

“You didn't have to come down on your own; you could have called for me.” Haruka said and swiftly picked her up off the ground. She proceeded to carry her `bridal style' over the loveseat she was sitting on moments before.

 

“Honestly Ruka, I'm not disabled. I can walk on my own.” Michiru said in feigned anger.

 

“I thought you liked it when I carried you?” Haruka cooed back before gently putting Michiru down in a sitting position.

 

Setsuna smiled somewhat reservedly at the duo, “At least you've recovered, Michiru. We are going to our forces at full strength.”

 

“What are we dealing with here, Setsuna?” Michiru asked seriously.

 

Setsuna took a deep breath, “Our enemy…I fear our current strength will not be enough to defeat her.”

 

“Her? Are you saying you know who we're dealing with?” Michiru asked.

 

“Yes, she was kind enough to pay me a visit. However, knowing who she is does not help our situation. She has knowledge of ancient magic. Magic that we'll be helpless against if confront with.” Setsuna explained

 

“What kind of magic are we talking about here?” Michiru asked curiously.

 

“Magic that affects the body and…mind. There is almost no limit to the amount of things that she can do with her knowledge.”

 

Michiru couldn't help but be surprised to hear that, `How can someone have knowledge of such powerful magic?' She observed Setsuna more closely and realized the Setsuna sitting before her was not the Setsuna she'd always known. Setsuna was truly worried, as though she didn't have a clue any of this would happen or any idea of what will happen. Michiru hazarded to ask the first question that entered her mind, “Setsuna, how can someone have knowledge of such powerful magic?”

 

“She knows such magic because I taught it to her.” Setsuna said quietly and lowered her head somewhat.

 

“What do you mean?” Michiru asked.

 

Haruka sat back and listened to Setsuna as she prepared to explain to Michiru what she already told her. `I thought things were getting better, and now this. We've defeated everything she's thrown at us, but if what Setsuna says is right; these youma may have just been to gauge our abilities.'

 

“It's a long story, but its time the both of you knew it all.” Setsuna said.

 

`We know she wants to hurt Usagi and no matter what, I won't let her do that.' Haruka thought and clenched her fists.

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

Yuuichirou watched Rei as she grabbed her denim coat and slipped it on. He couldn't understand why Rei took that creep up on his offer to have a meeting with her. His only stipulation was that she come alone, which Rei agreed to. He didn't hear all of the conversation, but he couldn't help but feel like the Rei that talked to the stalker was a different person. Someone he didn't know. Someone he feared a little. He didn't think it was a good idea for her to go and he told her as much, but Rei just shrugged it off. He offered to come along but Rei told him no. The tone in her voice told Yuuichirou not press the issue, the Rei that told him no was the same Rei that spoke with that man. She was a person that he could muster the courage to challenge. He felt so helpless; Rei was going off to meet with that guy and he couldn't do anything to stop her.

 

Rei looked over to Yuuichirou, “I'll be going now.”

 

“I have a bad feeling about this; I keep thinking I won't see you again.” Yuuichirou said sadly.

 

“Don't be stupid! I'm coming back.” Rei said confidently.

 

“You're going off to meet some guy that broke into the jinja! You don't know what's waiting for you when you get there.” Yuuichirou said.

 

“Keep your voice down.” Rei said quietly. Rei wanted to avoid alerting her grandfather that she was leaving. “I will be coming back and don't you dare tell Jii-chan about this.” Rei warned.

 

“Won't you at least let me call the police? You shouldn't go there alone.” Yuuichirou said.

 

“If you do that, I won't forgive you. I can handle myself well enough.” Rei said, turned, and started walking to the door that would take her out of the shrine.

 

“Won't you please rethink this…I…I don't to see you get hurt.” Yuuichirou said, sounding like his voice was breaking at the end, but didn't look at him.

 

Rei paused for a second and spoke again, “I won't get hurt.” Rei said without turning around.

 

“Why won't you listen to me? I want to protect you.” Yuuichirou cried and fell to his knees.

 

Rei kept her back to Yuuichirou, “You're a man aren't you? Then get off your knees and start acting like one.” Rei said coldly and continued on her path away from the shrine, leaving Yuuichirou in a state of shock.

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

By the time Rei made it down the steps, she could already feel guilt build up inside. `Maybe I was too harsh…he's an idiot, but he doesn't know any better.' Rei thought and stared down at her feet as she walked. `Damn it, I can't think about that now. I'll apologize for snapping at him when I get back; I have to think about that damn youma. I won't let him hurt Usagi.' Rei thought to herself.

 

Rei reached into her jacket pocket and pulled out her henshin stick. She looked it for a few minutes, before holding it above her head. `I'm sorry I can't follow your order Minako, but I can put my safety above everyone else's, especially Usagi's. It appears they want me dead, but that won't happen. I've still got too much left to do…'

 

“Mars Crystal Power, Make Up!”

 

There was a bright red flash follow Rei's henshin phrase, but it subsided quickly. Mars quickened her pace to a speed that no normal human could match and ran down the street. She leapt onto a stone fence that lined the sidewalk and prevented any intruders unto private property. She ran along the top of it until she reached the corner, `Ichinohashi Park is this way.' Mars thought looking to her left. `I can get there in less then five minutes and I don't even have to run a full speed, that'll help me save energy too.'

 

Mars took off toward Ichinohashi Park and before she knew it she was at its entrance. `Now I guess it's just a matter of find that damn youma.' Mars thought and ran into the park. `I know what he feels like, I should be able to sense him then.' Mars thought and concentrated on located the youma in the large park. It wasn't long before she focused in on some evil centered in the distance to her right. `That's where he must be then.' she thought and ran into the direction she felt the evil aura.

 

`I wonder if I'm being lead into some kind of trap…' Mars thought as she closed in on the source of the evil presence. `He didn't give me much of a choice, I won't let him get away with threatening her.' Mars slowed her pace when she saw someone standing in the distance.

 

“You're right on time.” Kenjiro said, sounding very pleased with himself.

 

“As if you thought I wouldn't show up after you dared to threaten my Princess.” Mars said angrily.

 

“Hmm, what do you say we get started then?”

 

“I would like nothing better.” Mars said and entered her battle stance; Kenjiro did likewise when he saw that.

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

Usagi wasn't sure what drove her to the jinja, but here she was. She did something that she had never done; she cut short her date with Mamoru. She was already feeling guilty. It was only a feeling after all, but it was because she couldn't shake it she had to go to the jinja. What perplexed Usagi even more was that she didn't know exactly what this feeling of hers was all about, but she did know the feeling wasn't going away no matter how much she ignored it. `Rei's been acting differently since Mamo-chan returned last night and then this afternoon...' Usagi thought when she realized she was already standing in front of a large sign that read, Hikawa Jinja. `I should see how she's doing.' Usagi thought and began her ascent.

 

`Maybe I want to apologize for this afternoon? I know Minako said Rei wasn't coming back because she didn't feel well, but that can't be right. I don't know what I did, but I had to have done something.' Usagi thought with a sigh. `I wonder if she's upset with me over last night. Maybe I shouldn't have pressed her as much as I did, but she was the one that brought everything up. What were you trying to tell me, Rei?' Usagi thought and looked up at the top of the steps. When she did, she could see someone sitting down at the top, near the entrance to the shrine.

 

As she neared she started to make out exactly who it was, “Yuuichirou, what are you doing sitting out here?” Yuuichirou looked up at Usagi and she could despite him trying to hide it, he had been crying. “What's wrong?” Usagi asked and knelt beside him

 

“R-Rei-san, she…she…”

 

“Yuuichirou, where's Rei?” Usagi asked cautiously.

 

“She went to meet with some guy that broke into the jinja earlier. I think he said to meet at Ichinohashi Park.” Yuuichirou replied.

 

“She did what?!” Usagi yelled and took a step away from Yuuichirou.

 

“She already left…I-I couldn't stop her.”

 

`This is bad…you can't do this on your own Rei…' Usagi thought and started to turn to head back down the steps.

 

“Wait! Where are you going?” Yuuichirou asked quickly.

 

“I'm going to go get Rei.” Usagi said.

 

“If you do that, she'll know I told you and she'll be even more upset with me.”

 

“She won't be, I promise.” Usagi assured him.

 

“Please, get to her before she makes it to Ichinohashi Park. I don't want her to be hurt.” Yuuichirou pleaded.

 

“I'll get to her. I won't let her be hurt, either.” Usagi said and hurried down the steps. `If she's already transformed, I won't be able to reach before she gets to the park and I'll need help…' “Everyone head to the entrance of Ichinohashi Park, immediately!” Usagi called into her communicator. Without waiting for an answer from anyone she snapped the device shut and grabbed her henshin brooch.

 

“Moon Crisis Power, Make Up!”

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

`The quicker I end this the better.' Mars thought even as she called forth her most potent attack.

 

“Mars Flame…”

 

`Predictable, going right straight for your big guns.' Kenjiro thought and readied himself for her attack.

 

“Sniper!”

 

Kenjiro eyed the attack and waited until the last moment before leaping over the fiery arrow. He looked down as the arrow passed beneath him harmless. He smiled at the ease with which he avoided the attack. He was so enamored with his achievement that he didn't even notice Mars had already begun calling forth another attack.

 

“Burning Mandala!”

 

Kenjiro was able to hear her call the attack and twisted his body so he would be face the attack head on. `I guess I should fight fire with fire…' he thought and put his hand together and his body became enveloped in a black aura. His hands started to glow with some kind of dark energy.

 

“Catastrophe Cannon!”

 

A great amount of black energy erupted from his hands and sailed towards the rings of fire Mars sent at him. When the two attacks collided the rings of fire were consumed by the black energy, but his attack didn't stop after absorbing the fire. The attack continued toward Mars. Mars looked around and cursed, there was nothing she could hide behind. `I guess, I'll just out run it.' she thought and ran as fast as she could in the opposite direction the attack was coming from. The attack came faster then she expected and she was forced jump, so the tail end of the attack wouldn't hit her.

 

The force the attack cause her to fly an additional several meters. Mars landed roughly with the ground, but she had the opportunity to get her body in a good position so she wouldn't brake any bones. She rolled across the ground before friction did it's thing and stopped her. `What the Hell kind of power is that? He could easily destroy building or more with that attack.' Mars thought and lifted her head to see the youma smiling about twenty yards away from her position.

 

“I'm sorry you missed out on seeing this attack at the hospital, but you were unconscious and the solider of Uranus had to interfere. Imagine the beautiful destruction this would have done to that hospital.” Kenjiro said with a sick smile on his face.

 

“You're one sick bastard, has anyone ever told you that?” Mars and started to push herself into a sitting position.

 

“Yes in fact, but what ever gets the job done. You should understand, you do what ever you have to protect your little Princess.”

 

“Don't compare yourself to me!” Mars yelled.

 

Kenjiro ignored Mars and continued, “Honestly, I don't know what you see in her. She's nothing all that special.”

 

“Shut your damn mouth!” Mars yelled and stood up.

 

“Mars Flame Sniper!”

 

Kenjiro sighed and sidestepped the attack just before it would hit him. “Come to think of she seems to have an interest in her as well. Not the same kind of interest as you do mind you, but she's interested in her nonetheless. Well she also has an interest in you and that woman transcends time too. Do you happen to know why?”

 

`Woman that transcends time? Does he mean Setsuna? Usagi, Setsuna, and me?' Mars thought to herself.

 

“Well?” Kenjiro asked.

 

“How the Hell should I know?!” Mars yelled.

 

“Damn it, I was hoping to get some answers before I killed you. She just ignores my question and tells me to follow orders.”

 

“I don't know, take it up with whom ever you're talking about.” Mars yelled

 

“You know you're really boring me. I thought since you were healed and since I went to all this trouble I hoped you would fight seriously.” Kenjiro said, sounding a little disappointed.

 

“Fire Soul!”

 

Kenjiro watched the fire ball approached him with disinterest. As before Kenjiro sidestepped the energy attack without much trouble. “Don't you get it, your attacks won't work in this wide open space. So, just give up already.”

 

`If energy attacks aren't affective, what about mystical?' she thought. Mars materialized an ofuda in her hand and slowly started her approach of the youma.

 

“You think your God will help you?” Kenjiro asked in disgust.

 

Mars ignored his remark and started her chant, “Rin, pyou, tou, sha, kai, jin, retsu, sai, zen.” The ofuda started to glow red and Mars stopped so she was still a good distance away from him, “Say what you want but you can't nullify this, if you can't move. Akuryou taisan!” Mars yelled and threw the ofuda at the youma.

 

Kenjiro smirked and held out his hand, `Her God has no power over me.' he thought, but as soon as he did the ofuda attached it's self to his hand. He tried to move his other hand to remove the talisman, but his hand did not respond.

 

“Let's see if you can withstand my attack if you're unable to move.” Mars said and held her arms in front of herself, as if she were holding a bow.

 

“Mars Flame Sniper!”

 

`That'll hit its mark.' Mars thought as she released the fire arrow. She watched as the arrow stayed true to its target and smiled when she saw the youma's face, `He must realize he doesn't have any options left.' Her smile fell when she saw, out of the corner of her eye, a blurry figure speed in front of the arrow's target. Her eyes widened when she saw the figure held some kind of bladed pole weapon, `That looks similar to Saturn's Silence Glaive…' The figure held the weapon high, before slicing through the fire arrow with ease. The attack split off into different direction, each part colliding into the ground to left and right of its intended target. The split attack tore through the ground, kicking up dirt into the air, and clouding Mars' vision.

 

When the dust storm ended the figure in front of Kenjiro stepped out of the dust and toward Mars. Mars sighed, `So much for a one on one battle, but when have youma been known to fight fair.'

 

The large youma took a step toward Mars before speaking, “I've been waiting for this moment, solider of flames.”

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

“Thanks for coming so fast everyone. Rei's inside here fight the some youma and we need to get to her before she gets in over her head.” Moon said and started to head inside.

 

“Should we split up, to have a better chance of finding her?” Mercury suggested.

 

“That's a good idea. Mercury go with Uranus, Jupiter go with Neptune, and Venus go with Pluto.” Sailor Moon commanded.

 

“And what about you?” Uranus asked.

 

“I'll be fine. I'm sure Tuxedo Kamen is around.” Moon said with confidence.

 

“I'd feel more at ease you if you let me accompany you.” Uranus said worriedly.

 

“I'll be fine Uranus. Go with Mercury, you're senses and strength will complement her skills.” Moon advised.

 

Uranus was about to speak again, but when she notice shaking her head slowly, `She's thinking more about her friends then herself.' she thought and lowered her head.

 

Sailor Moon took that as a sign that Uranus gave up her protest, “Alright, let's get going.” she said and signaled for the group to separate and start their search. Everyone went their separate ways, each hoping to be the first to reach the solider of fire.

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

“I didn't ask for you assistance here Ryuji!” Kenjiro said angrily.

 

“I am not here to help you. I am here under her orders.” Ryuji said and stepped towards Mars, walking past Kenjiro as if he wasn't even there.

 

“I'm faltered your leader saw fit to send two of you to take me on, but even that won't be enough. I won't lose here!” Mars vowed.

 

“I'm afraid your fate has already been decided.” Ryuji said and ran at Mars at a great speed.

 

`He's fast.' Mars thought as she barely avoided his charge. Mars jumped back a few times hoping to put some distance between her and the quick youma, but when she landed on her third jump, she felt a presence to her back. She looked over her shoulder and saw the he had somehow already gotten behind her. Her eyes widened as the demon smiled, `How did he…?' Mars thought when she saw him pull back his arm, in preparation for a punch. Mars dove to the ground, causing Ryuji's punch to miss its target. Mars tried to perform a quick leg sweep, but Ryuji leapt over it. Mars rolled away from Ryuji as he tried to stomp on her, `I need to find some way to put some distance between us. He's too physically strong.' Mars thought and flipped onto her feet again. Mars leapt into the air, `This might not be enough to take care of him, but it should give me some time.' Mars put her hands together and summoned forth her powers.

 

“Fire Soul!”

 

The fireball left Mars' fingers and flew at the youma she was fighting. She watched as the fireball stayed on course and struck the youma. `Why didn't he try to avoid it?' Mars thought. She landed and looked curiously, where the youma stood. When the smoke cleared she could see the youma was completely unaffected by her attack.

 

“I expected better from you. How she talks of you, I thought you were a great solider, but you are nothing.” Ryuji said.

 

“What?” Mars asked angrily.

 

“She told me not to kill you, but didn't say you need to be conscious either.” Ryuji said and smirked evilly.

 

“Explain yourself!” Mars demanded, but Ryuji didn't say a word. “Then I'll make you explain yourself!”

 

“Humph…you can't. At your current abilities, I could kill without even breaking a sweat, but that's not what she wants.”

 

“Then why don't you tell me what she wants?” Mars said sarcastically.

 

“You are in no position to ask such a question.” Ryuji said and entered his battle stance once again.

 

Ryuji charged Mars again and as before he displayed great speed for someone his size. He was within reach of Mars within a few seconds and wasted no time getting back into the fight. He threw a punch at Mars' face, but she was able to see it coming and tilted her head away from his fist. The force of his punch displaced the wind so much that even though he didn't land the punch, he came close enough to cause a small cut just below her eye. `I really can't fight this guy in close-combat.' she thought as she saw him drawing his other hand back for another punch.

 

As he threw his second punch Mars ducked, hoping to reduce any damage he could do. She could feel wind blow past the top of her head, when she noticed something, `Because he puts so much force into his punches and kicks, this guy is vulnerable after his attacks.' she thought and sidestepped an attempted uppercut. `Here's my chance…' she thought and threw a punch into the youma's side. She smiled at her successful attack, but before she could react the back of the youma's hand struck the side of her face and threw her several meters away from him.

 

Mars' hand went up her the left side of her face and she touched it gingerly, but even as lightly as she touched it, it still hurt like Hell. “What the Hell are you made out of?!”

 

“Something stronger than a mere punch from you can hurt.” Ryuji explained

 

Mars took her hand away from her cheek and cursed silently. “You're good, I'll give you that much, but I won't lose here. I can't.” Mars said.

 

“You say that, but I know you must realize the futility in fighting me. I'll put this simply; you can't beat as you are here.”

 

“Rei! Where are you?!” a voice called from the distance.

 

Mars' eyes widened and she turned her head when she heard a familiar voice calling for her, “No, don't come here. It's too danger…” Mars started to say when Ryuji yelled something.

 

“An opening!” Ryuji yelled and charge Mars again, but this time he materialized a halberd out of thin air. He jabbed the pole end of the weapon into Mars' stomach just as Sailor Moon came into view of the battleground. Mars could feel her breath leave her body, making her feel lightheaded. Mars fell forward and Ryuji caught her before she could hit the ground. He threw her limp body over his shoulder and started to walk away when Sailor Moon yelled to him.

 

“What are you doing with her? Let her go!” Moon demanded.

 

Ryuji ignored her and turned to a stunned Kenjiro, “We have what we want. It's time to leave.”

 

Kenjiro was at a loss, `What we want?' he thought and looked at the girl Ryuji was carrying. “What is the meaning of this Ryuji?” Ryuji turned away from him without saying a word. Ryuji's attitude only seemed to anger Kenjiro. He hurried up behind Ryuji and grabbed him by his free shoulder, “Answer me! What the Hell is this?!”

 

“I said, STOP!” Sailor Moon yelled, her Moon Kaleidoscope already in hand. She held the object high in the air and glared at two youma.

 

Ryuji turned to Sailor Moon with a cocky expression on his face, “I would think better of that, unless you wish to hit her too.” Ryuji observed her surprised expression and smiled as she lowered her weapon, “I didn't think so. Now, if you'll excuse us…” he said and held his halberd above his head. When he did so, a `tear' formed before the youma. The tear seemed to suck them in, along with Mars.

 

Sailor Moon fell to her knees as she could only watch helplessly as Mars disappeared with the two youma. “MARS!!!”

 

End Ch. 19

 

~~~~******~~~~

 

How's that for another cliffhanger? I bet no one expected that, unless you understand Japanese and know what the title means. No guessing for this title it means: Mars Kidnapped! So makes the full title, `Evil's Ambition: Mars Kidnapped!' I hope people understand why I didn't use English for these last titles then. Expect my focus to shift away from Mars for the most part, since she can't do much if she's in the enemy's hands. This is what I meant by what I said before LS. I felt when all the senshi were kidnapped in the Black Moon saga; it was glossed over too much, even in the manga. It may just be me, but even though a chapter was devoted to each, it didn't feel as good as it could have been. Usagi and Minako didn't really get down to business until they were the only ones left. That wasn't likely Takeuchi's intention, but it felt like that to me. I'll shut up about this now before I go on forever about it though : P

 

This chapter took me a little longer then I intended, but I was busy with a lot of things. So, did I clear up anything on the leader of the enemy? : P I'll leave it at that because her history will play out as the story goes on. Even when I don't think a chapter will be long, it turns into long one anyway. Hope the wait was worth it everyone and that everyone enjoyed this twist. Keep an eye out for the next chapter and do me a favor and review, I want to hear people's thoughts on this. Until next chapter, ja ne minna-san : )