Sailor Moon Fan Fiction ❯ Her Battle ❯ That Which was Taken ( Chapter 20 )

I'm finally back with the next chapter. I want to thank everyone who reviewed after the last chapter; I really enjoyed reading everything that everyone wrote.

 

Kenshkrix - Thanks, a lot of back-story went into this so I'm glad you feel it's coming together well.

 

Hofftailing - I'll revised the last chapter as soon as I can. I really should stop writing at three in the morning ;) Sorry, about the careless mistakes, I think need to revise better. I tried to do a better job with this one, hopefully I did. Ah, her…I really need to give you guys her name so you can call her that instead ; P

 

LS - What can I say cliffhangers are fun ;) BTW, you're still a kid if you 14 ; P Sorry, I couldn't resist : )

 

TopazDragon - Hotaru? I can't say any thing on her, but if you're wondering, where she is at present; she's with Professor Tomoe. Minako and Setsuna? I can't really saying anything on them either, other then I'll have to wait and see. Actually, let me say this, just so it's clearer. I know if Hotaru will be this or not and I know what will happen with Minako and Setsuna, I just can't say because it will spoil things.

 

King of Chaos - Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the last chapter. Curiously, when does a story qualify as an epic?

 

imagiland guard - Well, I do my best to get out a chapter a month. It really depends on the length of the chapter, how well it comes together, and how much time I can actually devote to writing. Rest assured that I know what every chapter from here on will entail, it's just matter of putting it together.

 

Lokiador - I'm sure you already know I'm going to say this, but I can't answer your questions. Thanks and I'll keep your advise in mind. Fighting is key here, but it won't be the only that drives characters relationships.

 

The 13th Knight - Thanks for leaving your comments. I always love hearing from new reviewers, it lets me know other people are reading this other then my regulars ;)

 

This chapter should clear up a few things…

 

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

 

Chapter 20 - That Which was Taken

 

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

 

Mamoru drove as fast as he could legally to Ichinohashi Park. He felt Usagi transform and headed to that location and if he wasn't mistaken all of the girls were with her. He was a little curious about why she transformed, `She's not being threatened because I don't sense any fear from her. Rather, I sense concern for another.' Mamoru thought and floored it when he felt the girl's concern increase ten-fold. In no time, he saw the entrance to the park's parking lot and sighed in relief. `About time.' he thought as he pulled smoothly into the parking area and turned off the car. In a matter of seconds, he was out of the car and transformed in to his alter ego. Once he was transformed, a sense of urgency nearly overwhelmed him. `I've got to hurry.' He thought and ran as fast as he could to where he sensed Usagi to be.

 

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

 

Uranus stopped and looked around as she heard something. “What is it?” Mercury asked quietly, unsure of whether an enemy was nearby or not.

 

“We have to go to Usagi.” Uranus said quickly and took off in a different direction then they would head before, forcing Mercury to try to match Uranus' impossible speed. `What just happened? There was a strange wind just now.' she thought to herself and pick up her pace even more, widening the gap between Mercury and herself.

 

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

 

Neptune stopped so abruptly Jupiter almost ran into her, but she able to stop herself just in time. Jupiter looked at her curiously and was about to say something when Neptune spoke, “There's been a change of plans, we're going to Sailor Moon's side.”

 

“What happened?” Jupiter asked, but Neptune didn't answer, instead she ran off to where she felt Moon was. Jupiter just sighed and matched the pace Neptune set.

 

`Something must have happened, I felt something strange.' Neptune thought as she ran.

 

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

 

Both Pluto and Venus stopped their sprint and looked at each other. “You felt that too.” Pluto asked.

 

Venus nodded her head and tried to focus in on exactly what she felt. She shut her eyes and concentrated for a moment, “Sailor Moon…oh my God Rei!” Venus yelled when her eyes opened. Before Pluto could say anything Venus was in a dead run to where she believe Sailor Moon to be. Without a word followed closely behind her.

 

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

 

Moon hung her head and started to cry harder, “Rei.” She whispered sadly.

 

“Sailor Moon!” Uranus called as she pushed her way through the last of foliage. Moon looked up when she heard Uranus call her. She turned to the taller woman and Uranus immediately noticed the tears in her eye, “What's wrong?”

 

After Uranus asked that, all the other soldiers emerged from the thick trees behind Sailor Moon. Venus was the first to react and she ran to Sailor Moon and knelt beside her. She covered Moon's hand with her own and gently asked, “What happened?”

 

Moon gaze followed the hand up until she met Venus' worried eyes. The concern Moon saw from Venus only seemed to cause her own eyes to fill with fresh tears. Moon fell into Venus' arms and cried, “Th-they took h-her.” She said quietly, so quiet that Venus wasn't sure Sailor Moon had said anything.

 

“Did you say something?” Venus asked.

 

“They took her, Venus. They took Rei right in front of me!” Moon yelled.

 

All the girls looked shocked at what Moon just said. They looked around and indeed Mars was nowhere to be seen. Venus was the first to react, “Mercury, use your computer to search the area for any trace of where they might have went.” She ordered. Mercury nodded and lowered her visor and took out her mini supercomputer.

 

A few moments later Tuxedo Kamen ran into the area the girls were in. He observed all of their expressions and came to one conclusion, something had happened as he thought. “What going on?” He asked to know in particular.

 

“The youma Rei was fighting kidnapped her.” Jupiter said quietly.

 

Tux looked over to Sailor Moon, who was on the ground being comforted by Venus. “I'll get her out of here.” He said. All the senshi nodded their heads, if the enemy were to return Sailor Moon was in no condition to fight.

 

“I'll conduct a more thorough scan of the area, hopefully I missed something.” Mercury said and lowered her visor again.

 

Tuxedo Kamen nodded and walked over to Sailor Moon. He gently brought her to her feet and whispered, “Come on, let the others search for now.”

 

Sailor Moon surprised him by shaking her head, “I can't. It's my fault.”

 

Everyone stopped what they were doing when they heard what Sailor Moon said and looked over to her. “What do you mean, this wasn't your fault.” Tuxedo Kamen said reassuringly.

 

“I was right here…I didn't stop it…I should have stopped it.” Moon said.

 

Venus stood up from where she was kneeling and walked over to Sailor Moon, “If you could have stopped this, I know you would have. This is not your fault.”

 

Moon looked up at Venus and shook her head slightly, but before she could saying anything, Jupiter stepped up to her as well, “Don't blame yourself for something that was out of your control. Mercury is working on finding where they went right now and when she finds their location, we'll contact you.”

 

“But…” Moon started to say, but this time Uranus addressed her.

 

“Leave this to us, Princess.”

 

“But…” She started to say again, but stopped when she felt a hand on her shoulder. She looked up to see who it was and saw Tuxedo Kamen looking at her.

 

“Come on, I'm sure they'll contact us when they learn anything.” He said and smiled sadly. She looked at the other girls each nodded their head in agreement. Sailor Moon lowered her head in defeat and undid her transformation and Tuxedo Kamen did the same.

 

“You will let me know, won't you?” Usagi asked.

 

“We will.” Venus replied.

 

Usagi nodded her head and turned away from her friends slowly. Mamoru nodded his head as well and turned to Usagi. The other girls could notice him whisper something, followed by Usagi moving closer to him. Mamoru put his arm around her shoulders and they started to walk away.

 

Venus waited until she was sure Usagi and Mamoru were out of earshot before voicing her frustrations, “This is stupid, how can they disappear into thin air and leave no trace behind!” Venus said angrily.

 

Pluto looked over to Mercury typing away at her computer and sighed, “You should stop for now. If you haven't found anything yet, you won't.”

 

Mercury didn't look up from the screen as she spoke, “I can't stop now. I have the highest probability to find something now, if I stop and try again tomorrow any trace of the portal the youma used will be gone, I can't stop.” She said and continued typing furiously at her computer.

 

“I understand.” Pluto said and backed away.

 

Uranus looked at Pluto and then to Venus, “Neptune and I need to discuss some things with Pluto in private.”

 

Venus looked at Uranus curiously, “This isn't something you can discuss with us as well?” She asked.

 

“No.” Uranus replied simply.

 

“We're sorry, Venus.” Neptune apologized and looked at Venus sadly.

 

There really was nothing more for them to do there, Venus knew that already and yet she still felt a little hurt that they didn't want to remain with them, it felt as though they'd give up already. She didn't like them have secrets from her and the others either. `It's as though there's still a wall between us.' She thought, recalling their refusal to work with them when they first encountered them. “If the three of you feel you must leave, I won't stop you.” Venus said and turned back to Mercury. Even though Venus was no longer looking, the outers nodded and proceeded to retreat.

 

Jupiter walked up behind Mercury and tapped her on her right shoulder, causing her to jump a little, but she continued typing nonetheless. “I'll stay with you.” Jupiter said quietly and stood beside her. Mercury smiled her thanks, but her eyes remained fixated on the screen.

 

After watching the short exchange, Venus walked over to Mercury as well, “As will I.” She said and stood on Mercury's other side.

 

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

 

Kenjiro followed Ryuji until he stopped at a dead end. Kenjiro eyed the youma, curious as to why he lead them down a hallway that would only lead to a dead end. Ryuji looked over his shoulder, “This is as far as you go.”

 

“What?!” Kenjiro yelled angrily.

 

“Exactly like I said, you can't continue past this point.” Ryuji said in his usual serious tone.

 

“And you will stop me?” Kenjiro asked, almost encouraging Ryuji to finish his threat.

 

“I will kill you if try to go any further then this point. She does not wish for anyone other then her or myself to know Mars' exact whereabouts.” Ryuji said with a sinister smile before disappearing in a black light.

 

`Was all that walking through these corridors merely meant to throw me off? I should have expected as much.' Kenjiro thought to himself. `I won't be made a fool by him or her.'

 

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

 

Ryuji looked down at a motionless and restrained Mars and smiled, `She will be pleased.' He thought and crutched down in front of Mars. “You'll lucky she didn't want you seriously harmed. I do hope if we happen to fight again though, you'll put up a better fight.” Ryuji stood and walked away from her before disappearing in the blink of an eye.

 

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

 

`I wonder if he even plans to come back here.' Kenjiro thought, but no soon did he think that when Ryuji reappeared in the same spot he was only a few minutes before. “That was fast, you mind tell me where you went? I see Mars is no longer with you.”

 

“That is none of your concern.” Ryuji said and took a step past the other youma.

 

“Then where are you going now?” Kenjiro asked.

 

“To inform her that everything went as planned.” Ryuji said and started to walk away.

 

“If you're going to see her, I'm coming too.” Kenjiro said.

 

“You don't choose when to have an audience with her; she chooses.” The larger youma said, clearly angered by the other youma's assertion.

 

“I want to know the Hell is going on here! Since you refuse give me answers, I'll speak with her.” Kenjiro said.

 

“You have some nerve; I should slay you now for your insolence.” Ryuji said and materialized his halberd once again. Kenjiro stepped back and entered his fighting stance.

 

`Stay your blade Ryuji. If Kenjiro wishes to speak with me, bring him along.'

 

`You're back?' Ryuji asked.

 

`Yes, now do as I've ordered.'

 

`As you wish.' Ryuji responded mentally. Ryuji dematerialized his weapon and entered a relaxed state, “It appears she has granted you life as well as an audience. You should thank her when you see her, because she is allowing you to continue your sorry excuse of an existence for at least a little longer. If it were me, you would be dead where you stand.”

 

“You are her obedient dog after all.” Kenjiro commented and relaxed his stance as well.

 

Upon seeing Kenjiro falling into a relaxed state Ryuji smirked. The demon moved faster then Kenjiro could react and before he knew it he was punched on the side of his face. The force combined with him not being prepared was enough to knock Kenjiro roughly to the ground. Ryuji stepped over the grounded youma and started walking away, “I thought you wished to speak with her…she won't wait for you.”

 

Kenjiro glared at Ryuji from the ground and rubbed his cheek, but decided against saying anything. Instead, he merely stood up and followed the youma with utter hate in his eyes.

 

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

 

The three outer solders silently walked into their shared home together, with Setsuna in the lead and Haruka bringing up the rear. The car ride back was unusually quiet between them as well. Even when Haruka would drive at outrageous speeds neither Setsuna nor Michiru brought it to the sandy haired blonde's attention. Since both women knew well enough that driving at high speeds was one way for the senshi of wind to relief some frustrations or anger. Once all three women were in side

 

“What the Hell is going on Setsuna? You said she was after Usagi!” Haruka exclaimed.

 

“Ruka…” Michiru said quietly, but in a calm voice.

 

“She is, she confirmed that herself.” Setsuna said.

 

“Then how does this involve Rei?! Why was she taken then?! Did you leave anything out of your explanation?” Haruka said and looked to Setsuna for an explanation.

 

“I told you everything I could.” Setsuna explained calmly.

 

“Then that means you did leave stuff out.” Haruka concluded from Setsuna's statement. Haruka and now even Michiru looked at Setsuna, expecting some explanation.

 

“You know there some things I can't tell, even to the two of you.” Setsuna and looked between both women.

 

“So what you left out, could that have lead to us considering Rei as some kind of target as well?” Michiru asked curiously.

 

“Perhaps, but you know there is only so much I can tell the two of you. There are some things I can't interfere with.” Setsuna said and turned to away from the two women and started walking away.

 

“Then you're fine with this?” Haruka asked.

 

“Ruka, you know that's not what Setsuna meant. Right?” Michiru said and looked over to Setsuna for confirmation.

 

Setsuna turned around and addressed the two women, “If I could have prevented this, I would have. You need remain calm. Don't you think this is something she wanted to achieve by doing this? The threat to Usagi still remains and if we don't stay as one, she will be able to have her way! Above all else, we must ensure Usagi remains safe. You know that would be what Rei would want as well. If we aren't united, we will fail and that is not acceptable!” Setsuna said and sighed audible when she added. “I'm only telling you what you already know. Our Princess' safety takes priority over all else and our guard must not drop because of this.”

 

“Then what do you suggest we do about Rei?” Haruka asked, much calmer then she was only a few minutes ago.

 

“Right now there's nothing we can do. Until we more information or a possible location where she might be, we can't do anything.” Setsuna said honestly.

 

“You know I'm not good at waiting.” Haruka said.

 

“Well, try this time, for Usagi.” Setsuna said and Haruka was noticeably surprised by what she said and Haruka reluctantly nodded her head. “I glad you finally agree with me. Now I'm to go to my room to rest.” Setsuna said started to walk away again.

 

“Setsuna?” Haruka called.

 

“Yes?”

 

“I'm sorry about going off on you like I did, I…” Haruka said, but when she was about to say more, Setsuna cut her off.

 

“You don't need to apologize. I know you're only worried. I can handle anything you need to say, I've been in this position for many, many years remember.” Setsuna said and continued on her path to her room upstairs.

 

Once Setsuna was out of earshot Michiru looked over to Haruka, “That's not all that's on your mind is it?”

 

“My attention was so focused on our Princess that I didn't focus enough of my attention on Rei; even though she was the one in the most immanent danger. I should have been able to do something to prevent all of this.” Haruka said.

 

“You were only fulfilling you duty to protect our Princess, as was Setsuna and I. You shouldn't feel responsible for what happened. We had to believe Rei could handle herself. We know she is a well enough fighter, so there's now way we could have suspected the enemy would kidnap her.”

 

“But Usagi blames herself! She put the blame solely on her shoulders when it was more our fault then hers.”

 

“You and I both know that's the type of person our Princess is. She's too sweet to hold anyone else accountable other then herself. Since she was there when it happened, she blames herself.” Michiru said sadly.

 

“Then there's only one thing for us to do…” Haruka said.

 

“What's that?”

 

“Get Rei back as soon as possible.” Haruka said firmly.

 

“Where do we start, though? Ami couldn't locate where the enemy went with her super computer, so we're kind of at a dead end.” Michiru said and looked at Haruka curiously. Haruka had and odd expression on her face, but Michiru recognized what she was thinking, “I know that look, but don't you think we should inform the others. I'm sure they would go along with it if it meant we could get Rei back quicker, especially Usagi. But what about what you agreed with Setsuna?”

 

“This is to help Usagi though.” She reasoned with Michiru and added, “I guess if there are more of us involved, it would be more effective.” Haruka agreed.

 

“Then what is it exactly you had in mind?” Michiru asked.

 

Haruka smiled dangerously, “We call the enemy out instead of waiting for them to come after us.”

 

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

 

Setsuna sat down on her bed tiredly, `It's not that I didn't want you two know…it's that I didn't know that was going to happen myself.' Setsuna lowered her head into her hands, `Has she clouded my mind so much I can't see what she's planning? What is your plan Kei? How did everything go so wrong with you?'

 

~

Flashback ? years ago

 

“Focus. You'll never be able to advance if your mind is all over the place.” Pluto instructed.

 

“I am focusing…this is just too hard.” The dark haired girl said. She shut her eyes again and held her hands out. After a few moments, her hands started to glow a bright gold, but after only a few seconds the glow faded and the girl fell to her knees, breathing heavily.

 

Pluto sighed as she watched the young girl try unsuccessfully to manifest her spiritual powers yet again, “That's enough for now.” she said and waved the girl over to her. “Let's rest under that tree for little while, it's starting to get too warm to train outside anyway.” The young nodded and walked over to the tall woman.

 

Together the two walked over to the tree Pluto pointed out. Pluto sat down and leaned back against the tree, while the dark haired girl chose to lie beside her rather then sit. The girl rested her head on Pluto's thigh, surprising her a little, but the girl just smiled fondly up at Pluto, causing Pluto to do the same in return.

 

“What will happen after I finish my training?” the girl asked curiously.

 

“It's too early to be thinking about that. Your training has only just begun. I think you should focus more on now rather then the future, there's plenty of time for all that later.” She replied.

 

“Please?” she asked and gave Pluto the sweetest `puppy dog' eyes. Pluto sighed in defeat, she couldn't ever resist such techniques. If there were a technique that she could learn to resist that, she would be the first in line to learn it.

 

“Alright, you will have a great honor. You will be a warrior for our Queen. You will uphold the peace throughout this solar system. You will ensure that evil does not gain a strong hold anywhere in this system. You will…” Pluto stopped when she saw the look of overwhelmed in the young girl's eyes. Pluto smiled down at the girl and ruffed up her hair, causing her to give Pluto an irritated look. “These things, though, are things you needn't worry about yet child.”

 

That comment received another irritated look from the girl, “I'm not a child! I'm thirteen years old, I'm nearly a woman.”

 

Pluto smiled affectionately at the girl, “But you are still a child. You haven't even mastered how to control you ki yet…”

 

Before she could finish the dark haired girl stood up, “If I can master controlling my ki, you'll recognize me as a woman?” She said quickly and expected a response just as quickly.

 

Pluto sighed, “Don't try to over do it, you're already moving faster in your training then I expected. It was premature of me to ask you learn that already.”

 

“You're not answering my question, will you recognize me as a woman if I can master my ki training?” She asked again.

 

“You can't…” Pluto started to say, but the dark haired girl was already countering her statement with her own.

 

“Please, Plu-chan…will you?” she asked again.

 

Pluto lowered head in defeat once again, “Hai, but you can't…”

 

“Thank you, I'll do it then!” She said and ran back to the same spot she was training a short time ago.

 

`Stubborn girl…' Pluto thought as she watched her resume her training by herself.

 

The next morning…

 

“Plu-chan…Plu-chan…wake up! Plu-chan!”

 

Pluto groaned at being woken so loudly. She cracked her eyes open a little and looked at the source of the noise, tiredly. “What time is it?” she asked her voice barely above a whisper.

 

“What does that matter?! Just get up!” she called, now also pulling her arms and forcing the taller woman into a sitting position.

 

“Fine, fine, I'm getting up.” Pluto said and opened her eyes wider. When she looked around, she saw the young girl was covered in dirt and looked very tired. “Good Lord child, don't tell me you've been training all night?”

 

The girl nodded her head enthusiastically, “I have and don't call me a child any more. I'm a woman.” She said with pride.

 

Pluto woke up fully at the girl's words, `There's no way she could master that overnight.' She thought. “Show me.” She said. The girl nodded and moved to the door, Pluto following close behind. Once outside she repeated the same thing she said inside, “Show me.” Pluto stepped away from her, to give her room, and watched. Her eyes widened as she watched the girl, `She's actually doing.' She thought and saw the girl form a small ball of gold energy ball in her hand. When she had stabilized the attack, she threw it at a nearby tree, turning it into a pile of wood-chips.

 

The girl turned and looked at Pluto expectantly, “A solider never goes back on her word…” she said, bringing a large smile to the other woman's face.

 

She ran at Pluto and wrapped her arms around the taller woman, “I told you I could do it!”

 

“Yes, yes you did.” was all Pluto said as she returned the embrace.

 

End Flashback

~

 

Setsuna shook her head to clear her mind of such thoughts, `No. I shouldn't think of her from then. She is no longer that girl…she…she changed.' Setsuna told herself. She fell back on to her bed and looked up at the ceiling. A part of her wanted to head to the Gates for information, but another part of her was worried if she did whatever information she learned would be used against her like before. `I shouldn't be the one surprised by things and yet I've been blind to her intentions since this started. Everyone looks to me for guidance, but I'm afraid I am of little help with this. I can look to the past, that I do know.' She told herself. `And Rei, could she have remember her to be…is that why she took her? Is she just a means to hurt Usagi or something else?'

 

Setsuna closed her eyes and thought about possible reasons, `There are so many things she could be planning, so many things she could do Rei. She's never been trained to handle anyone like her, none of them have. The mind is a fragile thing and knowing her like I do, she'll exploit any weakness she can find. We have to find out where Rei is before she has a chance to do anything, that's her only hope. Stay strong of mind until then, Rei.'

 

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

 

“I couldn't stop him. I was right there and I couldn't do anything to stop him from taking her.” Usagi said repentantly. Despite everything that her friends said, she couldn't fight the near overwhelming guilt. `I should have stopped them.' She kept thinking.

 

“I'm sure she's alright Usako.” Mamoru said comfortingly.

 

“I want to believe you, I really do, but you don't know that for sure.” Usagi said worriedly. She couldn't shake the sinking feeling in her stomach that something very bad was happening to Rei. To make matters worse, there was nothing she could do about it.

 

Mamoru felt utterly helpless, he couldn't seem to do anything to ease Usagi's worries and then he couldn't help but feel worried himself for Rei. It was dangerous being captured by the enemy, something he knew all too well. `I'm fairly sure they haven't killed her. They could have done that if they wanted to instead they captured her. Why?' Mamoru thought to himself and looked over to a very distraught Usagi that was pacing the floor. “Usako, we'll figure out what's going on and get her back.” Mamoru said confidently, though he was trying to convince himself as well.

 

“Do you really think so?” Usagi asked hopefully.

 

“I do. Right now we have to figure out how to get her back.” Mamoru said sincerely.

 

“Oh Mamo-chan, I'm just so worried.” Usagi cried and ran into Mamoru's arms. He held her supportively as she cried on his shoulder. “Why would they take her? Why?” Usagi whispered through her tears.

 

`Why, that's what I would like to know as well.' Mamoru thought to himself. “I don't know, but we'll get her back no matter their reasons for taking her!” Mamoru vowed.

 

Usagi didn't say anything; instead, she just continued crying on Mamoru's shoulder. Mamoru did nothing to encourage her to speak, `I just need to be supportive, because that's what she needs from me right now.' Mamoru thought.

 

An indeterminate amount of time pasted when a thought finally struck Usagi, “Oh my God, I have to tell her Grandfather!” Usagi said and pulled herself away from Mamoru. Usagi picked up her coat and ran to the door, before another thought struck her, “What am I going to tell him? The truth is unacceptable and what if they want to speak to Rei.”

 

`That could be a problem.' He thought to himself. “Could you call the jinja instead of actually going there?”

 

Usagi shook her head sadly, “No, Yuuichirou already knew Rei left; he was the one who told me.”

 

Mamoru was silent for a moment when a thought struck him, “Do you still have that disguise pen of yours?”

 

“Yeah.” She replied.

 

“Why don't you pretend to be Rei then?” Mamoru suggested.

 

“I don't know…” Usagi said dejectedly.

 

“Why not? You know Rei better then anyone, so you know how she acts.” Mamoru said.

 

“It's not that. If I do that, they'll think I'm Rei. I'll have to lie to them and let them think she's ok. But I don't know if she's ok or when she'll come back or even if she'll come back.” Usagi said and started to cry again.

 

Mamoru walked over to her and held her as he did before, “Don't think like that. We will find her and get her back before you know it. They won't get away with this, I swear it.”

 

Usagi nodded her head and her tears finally lessened. She stepped back from Mamoru and wiped her eyes, “Thank you.”

 

“You don't need to thank me; I'm telling you the truth.” He said confidently.

 

She nodded her head again, “I should head over there now.”

 

“Do you want me to come with you?” Mamoru offered.

 

“No, I think I should do this my self.” She said and opened the door. “I'll let you know how it goes.” Usagi said and was out the door.

 

Mamoru stared at the door for a moment and sighed, `I think I'll keep an eye on her just in case.' He thought and grabbed his coat of the coat rack and in a moment he was out the door.

 

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

 

Seated on her usual high throne the woman sighed and looked the door expectantly. `The last time I should have seen him was when I sent him out earlier. Yet he has returned alive, it's an unexpected thing. I will need to speak with Ryuji about his actions…' she thought while her eyes remained fixated on the door. She played with the silver bracelet now as she watched the door, her patience starting to grow thin when she heard the door finally being opened.

 

Ryuji entered first, but he was followed closely by Kenjiro. The woman watched them as they approached and observed them for injuries, but found neither to be too injured. Her eyes fell on Ryuji when he knelt before her.

 

“I have brought Kenjiro as you wished…” Ryuji said, but was silenced by a wave of the woman's hand.

 

She focused her attention of Kenjiro. “I understand you wanted to speak with me, Kenjiro?” the woman said and sat back in her throne.

 

Kenjiro nodded his head and stepped in front of Ryuji. “You had no intention of letting me get revenge. You had your own little plan all along, didn't you?” Kenjiro asked.

 

The woman appeared unraveled by the youma's words, “That's not entirely true. I gave you all the opportunity you should have needed, if you had ability to get the job done. You couldn't follow through with your silly revenge, so it was your own fault. I never said you had an infinite amount of time to slay Mars, your time merely ran out.”

 

“Are you saying if I killed Mars before Ryuji arrived you were fine with that?” Kenjiro asked curiously.

 

“Of course.” She said calmly.

 

“Then what about the stuff he said to Mars as he fought with her? He said you didn't want her dead.” Kenjiro said.

 

“No, I didn't want him to kill her. If you had killed her already, that would mean she wouldn't have been worth my time. Despite what you may think, you are weak and if a weak creature such as yourself could kill her, she only be another unimportant solider. I won't lie though, I fully expected you to lose your life.” She said with an odd smile on her face.

 

“Did you just throw me out there hoping she would kill me then?” Kenjiro asked angrily.

 

She cocked her head to the side a little before speaking, “Your death…you speak of it as though it is not inevitable…as though your life is important.”

 

“And you talk as though when my life ends is solely up to you!” Kenjiro yelled.

 

“Silence!” She yelled, stood up and advanced of the angry youma. “If I tell you to go out and die right now, you will do it. Unless of course you wish for me to kill you right now! I have no use for a fool that questions me!”

 

Kenjiro stepped back and entered his fighting stance, fully expecting her to attack him. “Humph, you think you could challenge me when Mars nearly killed you.” She said, but Kenjiro didn't back down. “I see I need to put you in your place. If I kill you in the process don't blame me.” She said and stopped in front of the youma. Unlike Kenjiro, though, she didn't enter a fighting stance; she just stood casually in front of him.

 

“Is that your fighting stance?” Kenjiro asked.

 

“I don't need one against you. Don't be cocky enough to think you can fight on the same level as me.” The woman said serious and remained in her relaxed stance.

 

Kenjiro looked angered by her comment and charged her without thinking his attack through. He threw a quick punch at her midsection, but she sidestepped the attempted strike with ease. See his momentum still sending the youma forward, she extended her foot slightly and tripped the youma. Kenjiro fell to the ground rather clumsily.

 

“You're more pathetic then I realized. If I knew I had such a worthless creature under my command, I would have never given the opportunity to fight the Sailor Senshi because I would have killed you myself.” She said as she looked down at the youma with disgust. Kenjiro gritted his teeth before he pulled himself into a sitting position and swiftly pointed his arm at the woman standing over him.

 

“Catastrophe…”

 

Kenjiro started to call out his strongest attack, but the woman seemed unimpressed. She held her forefinger and middle finger in front of her lips and muttered some inaudible words before moving her hand away from her lips and running at the youma. She grabbed his arm just as he opened his mouth to finish the attack phrase, but she whispered the final word of her spell before he could utter his, “Stop.”

 

Kenjiro eyes widened when he tried to move his arm, but found it wouldn't respond. He looked over to the woman holding his arm, “What the Hell have you done to me?!”

 

“I've merely rendered your arm useless. You'll find the rest of your body is fine however. I do believe in a fair fight after all.” The woman said and released the youma's arm. She took a few steps away from him and waited for him to rise. Once he was standing again, she spoke once more, “When ever you're ready…”

 

Kenjiro looked at her angrily threw a punch toward her face, but she was able to catch his fist with little effort. “You're too slow.” She said and tightened her grip until she heard a couple of loud snapping noises. Kenjiro bit down on his lower lip, drawing his own blood, but refusing to scream. “These pain is nothing and if you're already this close to scream out, I'll end this now.” she said and swiftly preformed a spinning kick to the side of the youma chin, sending him a few meters to her left and into the ground. She held her hand out in front of herself, her palm facing the grounded youma.

 

“Chaos…!” she started to say, but stopped she heard Ryuji interrupt her.

 

“Forgive my interruption, but may I have a word with you mistress.” Ryuji said and bowed low to show her he meant no disrespect.

 

The woman looked at Ryuji and thought for a moment before she decided to indulge the youma. “Sure, but it had better be important.” She said as she lowered her hand and walked back to her chair to sit back down. Ryuji stood and walked over her side as she sat. “What do you need say?” she asked quietly. Meanwhile, Kenjiro was busy pulling himself up off the floor, rather unsteadily.

 

“I just thought that maybe you shouldn't kill him, yet.” Ryuji replied just as quietly.

 

“Did you have something else in mind?”

 

“Yes. The Moon Princess was present when I took Mars into our possession…” He said and saw a smile grace her features, “…She saw him there as well. Perhaps he could be our messenger to her…”

 

“You believe he could be that for us. Perhaps…but I would need you to keep him in check. We can't have him tell the Princess anything before I want her to know.”

 

“He knows nothing of consequence.” Ryuji relied quietly.

 

“You are wrong, he knows where we are and that would send the Sailor Senshi here to investigate, but that can't happen until all the preparations have been made.” She said and thought for a few minutes. “Alright, but you must be present at his next encounter with the senshi. And Ryuji, don't even question me again.” She said quietly before turning to Kenjiro, who was on one knee and breathing heavily. “Ryuji has convinced me to spare your life for now, but should you even cross me again you suffer the worst death I can put you through.”

 

Kenjiro didn't say anything, which prompted Ryuji to speak up again, “You would do best to thank her for allowing you to continue your pathetic existence, I merely suggested you be aloud to live a little longer the decision to allow to live was hers and hers alone. So, be the pathetic creature you are, gravel before her, and give her your thanks.”

 

Kenjiro pulled himself into a standing position and was about to speak when the seated woman waved her hand dismissively, “That isn't necessary Ryuji.” She said and looked down at Kenjiro with a smile, “He knows that if he challenges me again, he will die. Isn't that right, Kenjiro?”

 

He thought about for a moment, but he decided on doing the only thing that would allow him to leave the room with his life. Kenjiro dropped to one knee and bowed his head slightly, “Hai.” He said quietly.

 

The woman again before speaking, “I'm not sure I heard you clearly, could you say that again? Louder this time though.”

 

Kenjiro gritted his teeth and did his best to hold back the resentment in his voice when spoke again, “HAI!”

 

Kenjiro looked up when he heard clapping, “Yes that wasn't so difficult, was it? Now, be a good minion and go to your quarters until I need you again.” She said and looked over to Ryuji, “Make sure he makes it there and doesn't pass-out along the way or anything.” She instructed, but this prompted Kenjiro to speak again.

 

“I don't need his help.” Kenjiro said and stood once again. He swayed for a moment before finding his balance and turning to the door.

 

“Suit yourself.” She said apathetically and watched him walk unsteadily away from her.

 

Kenjiro opened the door and thought, `How is she so strong and what the Hell is she? Besides that, what kind of attack was she calling forth? If she had used that I would have been killed.' Kenjiro stepped through the door with those questions and others on his mind but no answer to them. Once he had cleared the door, he shut it behind himself.

 

“The stupid fool, at least his days are numbered…” the woman in black said before her gaze once again fell on Ryuji, “…But enough about him, what of Mars? Did you do as I instructed?”

 

“Yes, she is in the room you told me to put her in and she is restrained.” Ryuji relayed.

 

The woman smiled when she heard that, “Good, I think I shall pay her a visit.”

 

Ryuji bowed his head and spoke, “If that is what you wish…” he paused for a moment before asking the question that had been on his mind since he learned what she was planning on doing. “…What of your meeting with her?”

 

“I got my point across to her I think, but she was a little more combative then I expected.”

 

“Combative?”

 

“Yes, but it's none of your concern. I will deal with her as I see fit.” She said in an unquestioning tone and Ryuji nodded in response. “Now isn't the time to being worrying about Pluto anyway. I should go and greet our guest.” She said and stood. She took a step down from her throne and gave a sideways glance at Ryuji before continuing, “Don't ever attack on your own again.” She said coldly. Ryuji was about to say something but he felt her gaze harden on him, “Be silent. I know you interfered in Kenjiro and Mars' fight. Don't ever assume you know what I want. If you hadn't have interfered I could have proceeded with plans. Now I must take things slowly again. Don't forget, there is one more youma I can send to play with the senshi before we're ready.”

 

Ryuji bowed his head, “Please forgive my arrogance, it will not happen again.”

 

“I hope not…for your sake.” She said and started walking again with Ryuji following close behind her, his head still lowered.

 

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

 

Mercury slammed her fist into the small computer, catching her two friends off guard. “What is it Mercury?” Venus asked cautiously. She was not encouraged by Mercury sudden burst of anger.

 

“There's nothing! I can't find anything, other then traces of their presences. It's as though they disappeared through a wormhole or something.” Mercury said, sounding frustrated.

 

“A wormhole?” Jupiter asked.

 

“Yeah, but that's not possible. They don't exist.” Mercury said.

 

“Let's say they do exist, where could they gone then?” Venus asked.

 

“I can't tell. If they did travel through a wormhole, it would be impossible to tell where they went. I mean not only could they been sent to a different place, they could have been sent to an entirely different time. It would be an impossible task to find her with some many possibilities.” Mercury answered gloomily.

 

“I refuse to accept that. I don't care how impossible it might seem, we will find her and we'll punish the youma for taking her.” Venus said

 

Both Jupiter and Mercury looked a little surprised by Venus' declaration, but even though neither voiced it themselves, they both had the same feelings. “I'm sorry; I didn't mean to imply we won't be able to find her. It just seems as though everything's against us right now.” Mercury said

 

“No, I'm sorry. I know you did the best you could.” Venus said and sighed. “The two of you can head home. We've done all we can do for now.” Venus said and undid her transformation. After seeing Venus undo her transformation, the other two girls followed her lead.

 

“What about you?” Makoto asked.

 

Minako looked at her friend and smiled a little, “I'm going to stay here for a little longer.”

 

“You're sure?” Ami asked.

 

Minako nodded her head, “Yeah, I just want to be alone to my thoughts.” She said and looked away from her friends.

 

A thought struck Ami and she looked a Minako sadly for a moment before turning to Makoto, “Alright, we understand.” She said loud enough for Minako to hear and added quieter to Makoto, “Come on, let's give her the space she wants.” Makoto nodded her head, but still looked a little confused. That passed though and Makoto followed Ami out of the area.

 

Minako sighed quietly when she realized she was finally alone. `Why did you have to do that? Why didn't you listen to me?' Minako thought as she looked at the spot Sailor Moon told her Rei was last, where she taken. “This wasn't something you had to do by yourself. You could have come to me.” She whispered. Minako noticed her vision started to blur as she stared at the spot of grass, so she blinked a few times to clear her vision somewhat. “Why didn't you come to me, Rei? Why?!” Minako called in to the night. Hearing only the echo of her voice as her response, she finally allowed herself weep openly.

 

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

 

Makoto and Ami walked beside each other silently. Both girls were lost in their own thoughts, but still very much aware of each other's presences. Makoto noticed Ami still wore the same disheartened expression she had when they left Minako. “What's on your mind, Ami?” Instead of answering Ami just shook her head, but Makoto was satisfied with that response and persisted, “Come on, tell me.”

 

Ami sighed and kept her eyes away from Makoto, “I couldn't find anything. I just felt so useless, after everything we've been through and after all the knowledge I thought I learned I couldn't do anything to find Rei. Despite everyone putting their faith in me I failed.”

 

Jupiter reached over to Mercury's hand and hesitated for a moment before grapping her hand a squeezing it gently, “You did your best and that's more then I can say I did. We weren't fast enough to get to her and we failed her and Usagi. Usagi put her faith in us to find Rei before anything could happen, but we failed.”

 

“But instead of blaming us, she put the blame on herself.” Ami said, finishing what Makoto was about to say.

 

“Yeah and that's all the more reason get Rei back as soon as possible.”

 

“This just isn't fair though.” Ami said.

 

“When have our enemies ever been known to fight fair, this enemy is no different. We weren't quick enough to realize what was happening before it was too late.”

 

“Not all of us…remember what Minako said earlier about being worried about Rei and the fact that she seemed to be the focus of their attacks. I think tonight may have been the culmination of everything.” The blue-haired girl said.

 

“You think they've been planning this out from the start?” Makoto asked.

 

“Yes, and I think they took measures to make sure we couldn't track them. How they would know how to block my computer is beyond me though.”

 

“For what purpose though?” Makoto thought aloud.

 

“I don't have a clue, but I do know our best course of action is to get Rei back as soon as possible. This whole thing isn't sitting well with me, why kidnap her, what could that accomplish?” Ami asked. Makoto frowned when she thought about Ami's questions. Ami noticed the other girl's expression and asked, “What are you thinking?”

 

“Only two things come to mind. Either they're trying to separate us one by one or they plan to use her as bait in some kind of trap.” Makoto said grimly.

 

“I don't like either prospect.” Ami said sadly. “You think she'll be ok with the enemy until we can get her back?”

 

“I sure hope so. I do know one thing though.” Makoto said.

 

“What?”

 

“An angry Sailor Mars won't let them they their way, whatever they planning to do.” Makoto said causing Ami to smile sadly, “This isn't over though, you know that. You'll find her and make them pay for kidnapping her.”

 

“And the sooner the better.” Ami added.

 

It was only a short time later that the girls found themselves in front of Ami's apartment building. Ami looked up at the building with a little sadness and even though she tried to hid it, Makoto noticed it. “What's wrong?”

 

“It's just that when I walk into my apartment, no one's going to be there.” She said sadly.

 

Makoto lowered head a little; she knew that feeling just the same. She started to move her hand over, but realized she was already holding her hand. `I guess I never let go…I wonder why Ami let go either. It must have just felt natural to her too.' She thought and looked over to Ami when a thought struck her. “You know if you'd let me, I could…”

 

“Yes.” She said quickly, before Makoto could even finish what she was saying and catching her off-guard as well. Ami chastised herself mentally for being so rude, `What if she wasn't even say what I thought?' she questioned herself. “I'm sorry, that was rude of me. It's just that I don't want to be alone right now.” Ami said and looked at the ground ashamedly.

 

“Neither do I…” Makoto said quietly, almost so quiet Ami wasn't sure she heard her correctly. “We probably shouldn't stand out here all night though.” Makoto joked, hoping to relieve some of the stress of the moment and honestly the entire day.

 

Ami looked up at Makoto, “I'm sorry, let's go inside then.” She said and lead Makoto into the building.

 

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

 

Usagi stopped at the bottom of the steps of the Hikawa Jinja and looked up the steps. `I hope this works…' Usagi thought and held her disguise pen above her head. “Please turn me into Rei…

 

“Moon Power, Ni nare!”

 

Once the light from her transformation faded, she looked down at herself and inspected her new appearance. “It looks like it worked.” She said and sighed in relief, `Good, this changed my voice as well, but there's still one last test though…' she thought and opened the compact in her. She closed her eyes and brought the mirror up her face. She made a silent prayer that she really did look like Rei because even if she were dressed like Rei, if she didn't look like Rei it wouldn't matter. She opened her eyes to see Rei staring back at her. She could already start to feel tears fill her eyes, but she willed them not to fall. `I need to be strong to do this, Rei wouldn't be crying like me.' She thought and wiped her eyes with her sleeve incase any stray tears fell. She took a deep breath and started her ascent up the shrine's steps. She was only a little more then halfway up when she heard someone calling Rei.

 

“Rei is that you?!” Yuuichirou called from the top of the stairs.

 

She nodded, “Yeah, Usagi got to me before I reached the park and convinced me not to go through with it.”

 

“That's a relief.” He said and looked as though a weight had been lifted off his shoulders. “Usagi didn't come back with you, did she?”

 

Rei looked at him curiously, “No, why?”

 

“Uh, no reason.” He said quickly and finally got a chance to look at her in the light of the temple. Yuuichirou gave her a strange look, which started to worry her. “Why are you wearing your miko robes? You weren't wearing them when you left.” Yuuichirou asked quietly

 

`I hadn't thought about what she was wearing when she left.' Usagi thought to herself. “Oh, uh that's because…umm…” She started to say but the loud call of Grandpa Hino interrupted her. “I'll go see what he wants.” She offered and hurried away from Yuuichirou.

 

The young man just stood there confused. `Rei's certainly acting different.' He thought, but didn't dwell on it. He was just happy that Rei was safely back home and he had Usagi to thank for that. `I'll have to be sure to thank her the next time I see her.'

 

“Did you need something?” Rei asked from the doorway to the kitchen.

 

“That was fast.” He commented and continued chopping vegetables. “I just wanted to know if you hungry, because I'll be finished soon.”

 

“No, not really. There is something I'd like to ask you though.” Rei said.

 

Grandpa Hino moved the sliced vegetables into a bowl and looked over to Rei, “What did you want to ask me?”

 

“Yeah, would it be alright if I stayed over a Usagi's house for a few days.” She answered.

 

He didn't say anything, but proceeded to move over the stove what ever was being heated up. He then grabbed the bowl he put the vegetables in earlier, added them to the pan, and stirred the contents again. “Why would you like to do that?” He asked her casually.

 

“I…I just thought I could spend sometime with my friend.” She answered.

 

“Is that all?” He asked.

 

Usagi started to get concerned that Rei's grandfather was not quiet believing her. She just didn't know if it was because her whole reason was lame or because she wasn't acting enough like Rei or even a combination of both. “Really that's all there is to it.” She said sounding very believable, to her own ears at least.

 

“You wouldn't be trying to take advantage of me lightening your work load here, would you?” he asked.

 

“Of course not!” she said quickly.

 

“That's good to hear, I don't want you to forget about the Jinja.” He said.

 

“I wouldn't do that and it won't be for long, just for a little while.” She said, but frowned inside. `I don't know if I can keep this up, it's just one lie on top of another. I don't know how long I might be talking about.'

 

“You really want to leave your poor grandfather all alone.” The old man said, pouting a little.

 

Rei sighed, a little from relief and a little from the older man's childish antics, “You're not alone, Yuuichirou is here with you.”

 

“That's true.” He said and noticed something about his granddaughter, “You're serious?” He said, sounding almost surprised. He had initially assumed she was joking, but her reactions told him she was being serious. There was something else about her too, something he couldn't quite put his finger on. It felt to him almost as if he wasn't really talking to his granddaughter, but that couldn't be right. He pushed that thought aside though, because it was foolish, he reasoned.

 

“I am.” She said simply and waited for his reaction.

 

“Why so suddenly?” He asked.

 

“It's hard to explain, but please. This would mean a lot if you let me do this.” She answered. `Please, let that be enough.' Usagi thought to herself.

 

“You really have your mind set on this?” He asked and she nodded her head. “If that's the case, I'll let you if you know it will only be for a few days.” Grandpa Hino said.

 

“Thank you!” she said and hugged the shorter man. When she released him, she was already heading to the door.

 

“Are you leaving right now then?” he asked.

 

“Yeah, and thanks so much for letting me do this.” She said and ran out the door before he could say anything more. She ran down the hall, right past a confused Yuuichirou. She didn't even pause to allow him to say anything, `I can't pretend to be her any more, this was hard enough. I just hope they really bought it.'

 

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

 

Mars' eyes cracked open and she looked around her surroundings. She tried to move her legs in order to stand, but found she couldn't move them too far. Mars' eyes opened wider so she could see exactly where she was. It was very dark; the only light was from the numerous torches burning on the walls. `No, that wasn't the only light' Mars noted, there was light coming from her, or at least there was some light close to her. Mars looked at her hand and saw there was a glowing gold band on it. The band connected to a chain, that connected to the stonewall behind her. Mars quickly inspected her other three limps and the same was true for all of them.

 

`Where am I?' Mars thought and tried to remember where she was last. She shut her eyes and thought back, `I was fighting with that youma from the hospital when another one showed up. Then Usagi showed up and…oh God.' “Usagi! Usagi, are you here somewhere?!” she called into the dark room, but the only response she got of the echoing of her own call.

 

`Damn it, Usagi. You weren't supposed to come there…if you got hurt because of me…' she thought but her train of thought was cut off when she heard voices and they were getting closer. Once Mars realized the voices stopped in front of the door to the room she was been held in she closed her eyes and hung her head to make it seem as though she were still unconscious. Mars could sense the presence of two them, one was a youma, but the other one wasn't. It felt as if the other one was human, but she could tell that neither were a friend to her, she could felt such hatred and evil being emitted by them.

 

Mars heard the unlocking of a door, followed by the creaking of the heavy door being opened. She did her best to appear as though she wasn't awake. Mars could tell that two presences had just entered the room without opening her eyes, the same two she felt coming toward the room she was in.

 

“You can leave me with Mars.” she heard one say.

 

“Are you sure?” the other asked, Mars recognized this one as being the second youma she fought earlier. She was about to stand up and attack the youma but then she realized her situation, `I need to pick my fights, if I'm going to get out of this.' She thought when the other spoke again.

 

“Yes, Mars is no threat to me.” the first one said again.

 

“As you wish.” Ryuji said.

 

Mars could tell the one held power over the youma, `Someone of a higher rank maybe?' she thought before hearing the sound of footsteps moving away, followed by the shutting of the door. Mars could tell that one left, but the other remained.

 

“You needn't pretend to be asleep, I already know you're wide awake.” the remaining presence said. Mars felt a little annoyed that her act was so phony, her capture could see right through it. “Come on now, don't be shy.” the

 

“I can't express to you how good it is to finally meet you face to face.” The woman said and crouched to get a better look at Mars' face. `She has the same eyes…'

 

“Just who the Hell are you?” Mars asked angrily. She tried to angle her head so she could get a good look at the person's face, but quickly realized the person was in the perfect position so all that Mars could make out was the lower part of the person's face; the rest of the person's face was covered by the shadow their hood made. Mars surmised the person to be female because she wore a dark red lipstick.

 

`…that same temperament I see.' She thought as she stood. “I don't believe you're in any position to be making demands. Besides, my name is of little importance. I believe you're more interesting in knowing why you are here.” She said and observed her reaction. She smiled to herself at Mars' surprised reaction, “But what am I saying, that's not the only question run through your head, is it? No, you're wondering why you're alive, where you are, who I am, and most importantly to you, you want to know if your Princess is safe.”

 

“How…?”

 

“It's simple really; you're psychic after all aren't you?”

 

“Are you saying that you know what I'm thinking?” Mars asked.

 

“To put it simply, yes, but your questions; no matter how important they may be to you are of no importance to me.” The woman said with a wave of her hand.

 

“Did you do anything to Usagi?”

 

“You really have a one track mind, don't you?” She said with a sigh. “Very well, if it focuses your mind away from her for a few minutes; she's fine and in the arms of her prince in fact.”

 

“You better not be lying to me.” Mars warned and glared at the mysterious woman standing before her.

 

“Don't call me a liar, based only on the fact that you don't wish to believe it. Who do you think is comforting her right now? Whose arms do you think she ran into once you were taken from her?”

 

“Shut up.”

 

“You were the one who brought it up in the first place, so don't be angry at me for telling you the truth.” She said arrogantly. “You would do best to think about yourself anyway. From here the only thing you can do from here is long for her anyway, oh wait, that's what you do when you're right next to her anyway.”

 

“I said, shut up!” Mars said angrily.

 

“I wouldn't be opposed to a subject change, but it's your mind still remains focused on her. Honestly, I can't see how you can do any task with that one-track mind of yours.” She said smugly.

 

“Fine then, why don't you tell me what is it exactly that you want? Why have been attacking this planet?” Mars asked, hoping that would be enough to change the subject. `This woman knows way too much…'

 

“The planet? This has nothing to do with the stupid planet or its people. I could careless whether this planet lives or dies. What I want is something so much more simple.” She said.

 

“Then why don't you tell me what you want?” Mars asked.

 

“In due time child, in due time. First, there is something I want to do. In fact, I've wanted to do this since I stepped into this room and saw you. Rise.” She said and made a hand gesture for her rise. Before Mars could do anything the golden bindings around her wrists started to glow brightly and pull her into a standing position, as if they was following her order. When Mars stood up fully the woman in the black cloak backed away from her a little. “Do you like those, they're my own invention. Not only do they obey my will, they also serve another purpose. They seal of your senshi abilities. They're quite ingenious, I think, and are good to keep your powers in check.”

 

“Do you fear me that much?” Mars asked and looked annoyed when she heard the woman standing before her laughing. “Is something funny?”

 

“It's not out of fear I do this. I just can't have you causing a scene with those annoying firepowers of yours that would only force me to hurt you. Rest assured though, you are no threat to me.” The woman said.

 

“Then what are your intentions? Why have you done all of this? Why am I here?!” Mars asked angrily. She was becoming frustrated the more she talked with this woman. Her answers, the few she gave, only lead too more questions for Mars.

 

“You really want to know that badly?” She inquired. Even though her face was obscured by a black hood, Mars had a feeling the woman wore a smirk on her face.

 

“Yes.” Mars answered simple, trying to hold back her anger this time.

 

“That's good to hear, but your questions will have to wait. There's something I feel I must give you…something I wish to repay you for. I was interrupted before, but there won't be any interruptions here.” She said and clenched her right fist at her side.

 

“What the do you mean `repay me for'? I don't even know you.” Mars said confusedly.

 

“Your present self no, but I could never forget your face…those eyes of yours…they're all the same.” She said, but her explanation only caused even more confusion for Mars.

 

“What are you…?” Mars started say, but before she could finish the woman before her moved like a blur. Only a few seconds after noticing her movement, Mars felt her fist connect with her stomach, knocking the wind out of her. The woman waved her hand and almost immediately the chains that were holding her in a stand position loosened and she fell to her knees. It took her a few minutes to regain her breathe, `What is she? She isn't a normal person.' Mars thought and looked up at the woman.

 

“Oh come on, that couldn't have hurt that much, I didn't even put all my strength behind it. I don't believe you're so weak as to be hurt too much by that; you wouldn't still be alive if you were that weak.” She said as she observed a kneeling Mars. “I guess my questions will have to wait for another day. It appears as though you've had a rough day, so let's continue this another time.” She said and turned away from Mars. After only a few steps she stopped, “Don't forget that I have your life in my hands and you're only alive right now because I need you for something.”

 

Mars glared at the woman's back, “And what would that something be?”

 

“You'll find out…when I want you to know.” She said and started walking away again.

 

“My friends will search for me, you know. You won't get away with what ever you're planning.” Mars called.

 

“I expect them to, but they won't find you, I'm sure of that.” She said without stopping. She opened the door and paused for a moment before stepping through it, “I would get comfortable if I were you. Now that I have you I can take as long as I wish.”

Before Mars could respond, the woman was already shutting the door. `What is that supposed to mean?' she thought, staring at the closed door. She pulled the chain attached to her left wrist, trying to pull it out of the wall. `I can't stay here; I have to make sure Usagi is alright.' She thought and pulled harder, but it was obvious she wasn't making any progress. She swore silently and stopped pulling, `It's no good; I can't do it. I have to find some way to get back I have to. Please Usagi; be safe until then, until I can get back to you again.' Mars thought and lowered her head in defeat.

 

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

 

Usagi pulled her key out of her pocket and slid it into the lock. She felt bad about pretending to Rei and lying to her family, but her logical side told her that was the only thing she could do. `They shouldn't be worried about her. It's my fault, I wasn't strong enough to stop them from taking her.' She thought as she stepped into her house. Usagi slid off her shoes and headed straight for the stairs, she just wanted to lie down. She didn't want to be teased about being late and missing dinner, because honestly she wasn't very hungry anyway. She felt empty, not hungry, and Usagi knew that no amount of food could fill whatever the emptiness was.

 

“Usagi!”

 

The blonde girl stopped when she heard her name being called. When she turned around, she saw her mother in the doorway to the kitchen, “Why are you so late?”

 

“I'm sorry mom, I think I just lost track of time.” Usagi said.

 

“Alright, but do think you could call home if you going to…” She started to say, but stopped when she noticed she looked paler then usual, “Are you alright? You look like you might be coming down with something.”

 

“I'm alright, just tired. It was a long day.” Usagi said and did her best offer her mom a cheerful smile, but she feared that she failed miserably.

 

“Are you sure?” She persisted.

 

“Yeah, I just really want to get some rest. I'll be better in the morning.” Usagi said optimistically and started to climb the stair to her room.

 

“You'll let me know if you need anything, right?” Ikuko asked.

 

“I will mom.” Usagi said and continued walking.

 

Ikuko looked up at her daughter sadly, she knew something was bothering her but she didn't know what it was. `I'll be here if want talk about it.' She thought and turned to walk to the front room, where Kenji was watching television.

 

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

 

Usagi walked into her room and placed her purse by the foot of the door as she walked into the room. She didn't even bother to change in to her pajamas when she laid down on her bed. She pulled her blankets up and wrapped them tightly around herself. She closed her eyes, but when she did, she saw Rei; or to be more specific Rei being taken right before her eyes again. Usagi felt her eyes well up with tears, but she didn't have the will to stop them this time so she just let them flow unbridled down her cheeks. `Where are you, Rei? Are you alright?'

 

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

 

Luna slipped into the room as silently as she could. As if by chance she bumped into Mamoru a short distance away from Usagi home. He told her about what happened and he said he was worried about Usagi, which is why he wanted to be closer to her. Luna hurried home after thanking Mamoru for telling her everything; she wanted to make check Usagi for herself.

 

Luna walked in and even though she wasn't being very loud, she could hear Usagi crying. Luna sighed approached Usagi cautiously, “Usagi…?”

 

Usagi turned over and looked at the foot of her bed. “Lu-Luna…?” Usagi asked quietly

 

“What good is my power if I couldn't do anything to stop them from taking her?” Usagi cried and tried to swallow back a new wave of tears, but found herself unsuccessful.

 

Luna looked at the girl sadly; she didn't know what to say. `I can't think of anything to say…what do I say in this situation? I have to try to confront her anyway I can though…' “I'm sure we'll get her back.” Luna said as confident as was possible.

 

“But we don't have any clues. Ami even tried searching the area for anything, but her super computer couldn't find anything.” Usagi said dejectedly.

 

“You need to have faith. You know Rei better than anyone does. She a strong and capable girl.”

 

“I know all that and yet…” Usagi said and reached up to her chest and grabbed her brooch tightly.

 

“And yet…” Luna said, urging the girl on.

 

“And yet, I can't fight this feeling in my heart that if we don't get her back soon, something awful will happen to her.” She said and could feel tears fill her eyes again but she didn't let them fall. Usagi removed the object she was clutching from her clothing and opened it to reveal the crystal inside, “Luna, I can make wishes on this can't I?”

 

“Yes.” Luna replied.

 

“Do they always come true?” Usagi asked quietly.

 

“Most of the time, but not always. Why?” Luna asked.

 

“Last night Rei wanted to tell me something and I was just thinking…what if I never get to hear what she wanted to tell me.” Usagi said and removed the jewel from its place in her brooch. She held the crystal above her head and spoke, “Please, Ginzuishou, tell where Rei is.” She said and paused for some kind of response, but nothing came. “Onegai.” Usagi pleaded again, but again she got no response. It even greater effort from Usagi to will her tears not fall when she received no response after her second plea.

 

Luna looked at Usagi sadly, she wanted to do something for her charge, but the only thing she could do was offer her comfort. “Usagi, you can't…”

 

“Onegai!” Usagi cried again. Usagi waited again for a response, but as before nothing came. The girl lowered her arms and stopped fighting the tears that had been threatening to fall for some time. Luna walked over to Usagi to try to comfort the girl when she saw her start to raise her arms again.

 

“Usagi stop! This isn't the way to go about finding her. You are only putting an unnecessary strain on your body. Just put the Ginzuishou back into your brooch.” Luna said seriously.

 

Usagi looked over to Luna sadly, but she still clutched the crystal tightly. “But Luna…”

 

“No, Usagi. Trying to force an answer that isn't coming won't help. You need to rest. Tomorrow, we can try to figure something out. After some rest, you also be thinking more clearly.” Luna said and hoped that convince Usagi to calm down.

 

Usagi lowered her head and cried silently. She wordlessly put the crystal back in her brooch and stood. She walked over to her dresser and landed the object on the top, before making her way over to her bed. She stopped and looked out her window. It was a cloudless night and the moon shone brightly in the night sky; it was that object Usagi looked up at. The moon always reminded her of her mother, she could always feel close to her mother when the moon wasn't obscured. She would often ask her mother for advice while she looked up at the moon before she went to sleep and usually when she awoke the next morning, she had some answer to her question.

 

`If the Ginzuishou won't answer me, I'll ask my mother.' She thought and climbed into her bed and knelt in front of her window. `Why did something like this have to happen? The only thing I could do was sit back and watch, I failed her. I don't know what to do right now, but something tells me if we don't get her back soon something bad will happen. How can I find her mom? The Ginzuishou doesn't tell and no one else knows. I don't want to see anything bad happen to her, I could bare to see anything worse happen to her. Please give me some guidance; I really need you right now.'

 

Luna watched Usagi look up at the moon, but didn't say anything. `She is at such a loss right now and there's nothing I can offer her to give her comfort in this situation.' Usagi finally laid back in her bed and shut her eyes. Luna jump up on the bed and laid beside her head, instead of her normal spot at the foot of the bed. “Please do try to sleep, it doesn't do you or Rei any good to stay awake all night.”

 

Usagi nodded her head, silently hoping she could get some rest if only to see if her mother would answer her questions.

 

End Ch. 20

 

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

 

Now I've got Usagi acting all angsty, aren't I cruel ;p I honestly didn't intent to make it come out that way, but I guess it did (shrugs) And you know what else, I didn't go into this intending to make it this long either, but that's ok; these long chapters just wear me out. Anyone like the short flashback scene, well guess what there's more on the way : ) Anyone notice I snuck in her name, I know it's nothing impressive, but like all my original characters, the name means something. Besides, it's not her name that's important it's who she is…

 

Umm, before I end this let me just say I'm sorry about the wait here, life has just been really hectic lately. Plus, this chapter didn't come together as quickly as I expected it to. sigh But it's finally done, at least I'm always close to being about a month between updates : p I hope that was for everyone enough to `chew on' for about a month, since you know that will be about how it will be until another update, don't you? ; ) So before I go, let me remind you to hit that review button to let me know you thought of this chapter, see ya next chapter :)

 

Note - I realize Usagi's use of the disguise pen was never show to be able to actually change her into someone else; she would still look relatively like herself in the times she transformed. However, I see now reason why it wouldn't be possible, so when she used her disguise pen in this chapter she was able to look identical to Rei. Oh and exactly how the transformation phrase goes, I don't recall…it's been a long time since I've any episode of SM where she used her disguise pen (since most were in the first season and I'm not going to dig out those DVDs). Also, I hope that scene wasn't too confusing.