Sailor Moon Fan Fiction ❯ Her Battle ❯ Fateful Night under the Stars Act I ( Chapter 31 )

Sorry for the wait…yeah I know that seems to be a recurring theme with each update (as few and far between they are). Well, here's the much awaited chapter 31 (I'm sure someone awaited it).

 

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Chapter 31 - Fateful Night under the Stars Act I

 

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Usagi woke with a start; her mother was pounding on her door and yelling for her to get up. Her head turned over to the clock on her desk. 7:33 The time flashed on the clock's display. She shut her eyes for a moment and sighed, `I knew it'd be like this.' She heard her mom call for her again. “I'm awake, mom!” She called back. After a few seconds she could hear her mom call back. She didn't hear everything, but she got the gist of it. It essentially had to do with her needing to hurry or be late. That was already a fore-gone conclusion as far as she was concerned; it was now simply a matter of how late she was going to be.

 

She slid out of her bed and padded across her room to the door. Usagi opened her door and stepped out to make her way over the bathroom across the hall. She shut the door once inside and turned the water on in the sink. She cupped her hands under flowing stream until a small amount gathered in her hands. She splashed the lukewarm water on her face and looked at herself in the mirror above the sink. Her eyes widened as she stared at her reflection. She tilted her head to the side to get a better look at the side of her neck. She touched the finger shaped bruises gently. They didn't hurt as bad as they looked, but she'd have to cover them up somehow, she didn't want to have to answer the questions the bruises would bring.

 

She closed her eyes for minute and thought back to the previous night's events that caused the bruises. She shook her head afterwards. There wasn't any point thinking about that, it only conjured up negative feelings. There was no doubt in her mind that things would be different when they meet again. There was no sense thinking about the past when it was the present and future that she needed to focus on. `The future eh…' she thought on that for a short time when she realized something, she had a link to the future. And she didn't live too far away. She didn't really want to ask the senshi of time about the future, but it was important. Anything Setsuna could say wouldn't change anything she planned to do, when she thought about it. Though, the older woman could clear her mind of any lingering doubts. There's a lot at stake tonight…a lot…and it all starts with getting Rei back.

 

“Usagi, aren't you finished yet? It's getting late!”

 

The teen was brought out of her thoughts by her mother's voice. She needed to take shower before doing anything. Usagi walked over to the bathtub and turned on the water for her shower before disrobing. Once she was finished, she put her hand under the water, testing it. Satisfied with the temperature, she stepped into the bath and took a quick shower. She shut off the water and exited the tub after she finished. She dried herself. Afterwards she wrapped the towel around her body and exited the room.

 

She returned to her room and went to the desk beside her bed and opened the top drawer. She pulled out a few items cosmetic items and set them on the desk before sitting down on the chair at the desk. With the aid of a small mirror, she applied concealer to the dark spots on her neck. When she finished she inspected her work, it looked much better, but it still looked a bit off if you looked close enough. She felt satisfied with how it looked now; she didn't want to add too much make-up because that'd likely draw more attention and that was the last thing she wanted.

 

“Usagi…?”

 

The young girl nearly jumped out of her seat at the unexpected noise. She hastily put away all the items she'd been using and got up. “Hi Luna. I didn't know you were awake yet.” Usagi said and walked over to her dresser, opening the top drawer.

 

The black cat watched the teen search through the dresser and pull out a bra and panty set as well as a pair of socks. When Usagi let the towel she had wrapped around her drop to the ground, Luna looked over the clock in the girl's room. She debated asking the girl about what she was doing at her desk, when she awoke, but held back once she saw the time and another question entered her mind. “Shouldn't you have left for school already, Usagi?”

 

The blonde looked over to her bed, where Luna sat, as she fastened her bra behind her back. “I'm not going to go to school today.” She said calmly and put her arms through the straps.

 

“What do you mean?”

 

She didn't answer her right away; instead she slipped on her underwear. Once done, she looked at the black feline seriously for a short time. When she broke eye contacted, she walked over to her closet and opened, taking out her school uniform as she said, “I thought about it Luna and there's something I have to do before meeting Rei again.”

 

“The letter said not to do anything until tonight. Why not just call a meeting for this afternoon? I can…”

 

Usagi shook her head, “I need to do this Luna. It's important that I do this and I'd rather do this without everyone around.”

 

“What about the other girls? Won't they be worried if you don't show up at school?”

 

She froze for second at her question, the last time she ditched a day of school everyone got drawn into a fight. She didn't think that would happen this time though, but just in case… “I'll send them each messages and tell them not to worry. I should be able to make there before lunch break.” She paused and looked at Luna thoughtfully, “Luna, there is something you can do for me though.”

 

“What did you need me to do?”

 

“Could you find Mamoru and tell him to be at Mako-chan's…around four? He should be at work now, he doesn't have school today.”

 

“Where will you be going?” The feline asked her charge.

 

“I'm going to Haruka and Michiru's house.” She stated and began putting on her uniform.

 

Luna watched her as she finished getting dressed, `Why would she be going there?'

 

“Can you let him know Luna?” Usagi asked and picked up her school bag. She made her way to her door, but stopped and looked over to the black cat expectantly.

 

“I will.”

 

Usagi smiled, “Thanks.” And with that she left her bedroom.

 

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

 

Diana stepped out of her room and closed the door behind her before leaning against it heavily. She didn't sleep well at all and she still had reservations about what she'd been told she had to do. While it was true that girl's power unrestrained could be very dangerous, it wasn't, she controlled it well…unlike herself. Unrestrained power in anyone's hands could be dangerous. She didn't wish to commit herself to killing the girl if it could be avoided, like she believed. It was that thought that prevented her from achieving the peaceful slumber she wished for. She sighed audibly. She feared that she wasn't fully prepared for her next encounter with the girl or the other warriors she'd been told about, for that matter. Perhaps, she wouldn't have to fight too soon, though her instincts told her otherwise.

 

She couldn't deny a part of her wished meet that girl again. There was something about her and she couldn't put her finger on exactly what that something was, but it did worry her a little. It's never a good to have any feelings for your enemy. She did find the Serenity girl attractive; perhaps that's what it was. At least, she that's all she hoped it was. `I'll be happy when this is all over…' She thought but froze immediately afterwards. “When this is all over huh…” She muttered under her breath. What was next? She didn't know nor did she plans for anything afterwards. Everything, all her thoughts, have been about finishing the task at hand, beyond that…there's nothing. It was almost as though she were some machine with one objective to complete and had nothing else when done. She shook her head at the ridiculous thought and chalked it up to her sleep deprived state.

 

She wandered away from her room and set off down the hall. `I need some fresh air.' She thought and turned left at the first corner she reached. She walked straight down that hall until she reached an archway with a set of doors; it was the end of the hall. She pushed the doors open and stepped through them. She shivered as she stepped away from the building; the large star was giving light and warmth to the opposite side of the satellite. She didn't like the cold; she was out of her element in it. She silently called upon her power to warm herself, which she did successfully. She walked down the few steps outside the doors and headed to one of the many pillars that surrounded the building. The raven haired girl touched the marble-like surface and immediately noticed something…`It's magically enchanted.' She tired to figure out what exactly it could do, but came up empty. `It's infused with strong magic…I can tell that much.' Her hand dropped from the column and she turned around, someone was coming. She watched the person emerge from the building and walk up to her.

 

Kei's eyes strayed from the young girl to the object she stood next to, “They serve an important purpose. First, they provide a barrier for this place, the barrier itself provides two types of protection. It's impossible to penetrate this barrier without knowledge of this place's exact location. The barrier also makes this place invisible to the naked eye, at least to the eye of one without magical abilities.” She explained, answering the girl's unasked question.

 

“Who made them?” Diana asked.

 

The woman smiled at the question, “Someone who died a long, long time ago. When I came here they still stood, for the most part, and while it wasn't a simple task, I reactivated them.” Diana nodded in understanding. It was silent for a short time, before Kei spoke once more, “Come. There is much we need to discuss.” She said and motioned for Diana to follow. She simply nodded and walked behind the other woman slowly.

 

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

 

“Should I wake Hotaru? She might be hungry.” Michiru asked the woman across the table from her.

 

Haruka bit into her toast after a few moments she swallowed the piece, “Let her sleep, she won't be able to sleep like this much longer.” She said and took a healthy drink of orange juice. “Besides, she's been a little anxious the last couple days. I think she's worried about something, but she's keeping it to herself.”

 

“What do you think it could be?”

 

“I'm not sure. If it were a vision of some kind of danger, I'm sure she would have told us, she's been upfront with us about everything so far.” She paused for moment, seeing concern on the other woman's face, “It's also entirely possible that I might be seeing something that isn't there as well.” Haruka added

 

“I trust your instincts, Ruka.” Michiru said and smiled warmly at the woman across the table. She lost the up-turned expression when she spoke again, “Should we ask her about it? If it's something we can help her with, we should. She's our responsibility. She doesn't have any other family.”

 

The other woman nodded her head slowly, Michiru was right. Even though she didn't act like it much, she was still a child. “It'd probably be a good idea. Though, I'd like to see if she'd come to us first.”

 

Just then the door bell rang. Both women stood up, but Haruka held up her hand and said, “Don't worry, I've got it. It's probably no one important.” The blond stood up and exited the kitchen. She walked to the front door, when she reached it the bell rang once more. She sighed to herself, the person seemed quite impatient. She looked through the peephole on the door, `Usagi?' Haruka quickly threw open the door.

 

“Bunny? Is something wrong?” The sandy blond asked, fearing the worst at the sudden appearance of the Moon Princess.

 

Usagi shook her head quickly; the thought that maybe she should have called ahead of time crossed her mind then, “No. No. It's nothing like that.”

 

“That's a relief.” The other woman responded immediately. She then realized what time it was and asked, “Shouldn't you be at school, Usagi?”

 

The blond in question blushed and smiled sheepishly, “Yes…I will be there shortly. And before you ask, I already sent the girls messages that I'd be late today and not to worry. I just wanted to talk with Setsuna about something first. May I come in?”

 

Haruka stepped aside and motioned for the other girl to enter, which she did. She shut the door and looked at Usagi, “What did you want to talk with Setsuna about?” she asked curiously.

 

The teen didn't answer right away, choosing to stare at the ground instead. “I'm sorry Haruka…I'd like to talk with Setsuna first.”

 

The taller girl nodded her head slightly, prompting the other girl to apologize once again. Haruka shook her head this time and said, “Nah…there's no need to apologize to me. If you need to talk with Setsuna about something, I'm sure it's important.” She paused and added, “She was in her study when I came down earlier, she's probably still there. Do you remember where it is?”

 

Usagi nodded, “Yeah, thank you Haruka.” She started to go up the stairs when another person entered the room.

 

“Ruka, who….” Michiru began as she entered the front-room, but noticed someone unexpected hurrying up the staircase next to Haruka. “Oh, Usagi! What brings you here?”

 

She stopped midway up the stairs and turned to address who just spoke, “Good morning Michiru. I need to talk with Setsuna about something.”

 

Michiru was about say something else when she saw her partner shake her head quickly, as if she sensed what the other woman was going say. “Oh, well it's good to see you Usagi.”

 

The other girl smiled in response, “It's nice to see you as well.” She said before continuing her trek up the stairs.

 

Once Usagi was out of sight, Michiru addressed her companion, “What was that about?”

 

Haruka shook her head, “I'm not sure, but whatever it is it seems she only wants to talk to Setsuna about it.” she said and shrugged. “Come on…let's finish breakfast for the time being.” Haruka said and her arm around the other woman's shoulders.

 

They both walked back to the kitchen and took the same places they were in before. After no more than five minutes, Usagi walked into the kitchen with her head lowered. The two women looked up at the new arrival. They each thought the same thing…that was way too quick. Plus, their Princess looked to be more disappointed than anything.

 

“Usagi, what's wrong?” Michiru asked.

 

“She wasn't there.” She replied simply.

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“Setsuna. She wasn't there, Haruka.” Usagi explained. She sat down at the table with the two outer senshi, “I'm sorry, but do you mind if I stay for a little while until she returns?”

 

“Not at all, are you hungry or did you want anything to drink?” Michiru offered.

 

“Some water would be nice.” She answered. Michiru walked over the refrigerator and took a bottle out and walked back to where Usagi sat. She handed her the bottle and the moon princess smiled before thanking the other woman. The room was silent as the two outer senshi watched the teen as she took a healthy drink from the bottle.

 

“You look tired. Did you sleep well last night?” Haruka asked.

 

She put the bottle down on the table and leaned back on to her chair, “I didn't get very much sleep last night…” She paused upon seeing the questioning looks she was being given. She didn't want to go over why it was that she didn't sleep well, but she could see that question was coming if she didn't offer up some answer now. “Something happened last night that prompted me to do a lot of thinking.”

 

“What happened?” Michiru asked.

 

“I saw Rei last…”

 

“Rei?!” Both women explained in unison.

 

Usagi nodded her head, “Yes, but I wanted to discuss this with everyone this afternoon. It's important that both of you, along with Hotaru and Setsuna are there. I promise I'll explain everything at Mako-chan's place after school.”

 

“When should we be there?” The senshi of wind asked.

 

“Four.” She answered and paused for moment. “I haven't actually run it by Makoto yet, but I'm sure she won't have a problem with it.” She said, laughing a little at the end.

 

The other two women shook their heads at her. Michiru got up from her seat and put her hand on Haruka's shoulder when she walked past her, prompting the other woman to look up at her. “I'm going to take a shower and get changed now. I'll be back down shortly.”

 

Haruka nodded and watched as her lover left. Her eyes fell on the younger girl again, “Are you sure it's nothing I can help you with, Princess? There's really no telling when Setsuna will be back.”

 

Usagi smiled briefly, “I know, there's just something I wanted to ask her before tonight.”

 

“Alright, but I'll be here if there's anything you want to talk about.” She said and went about finishing what was left of her breakfast. Usagi simply sat there, though a couple times she appeared as though she was going to say something, but didn't. She mostly played with the bottle she had, taking a sip from it from time to time. Haruka took her time finishing, once there was finally nothing left she got up, took her plate over to the sink, and place it and the utensils she had been using in it. She turned on the faucet and began washing hands, when she was done Usagi finally spoke.

 

“How did you know it was true love with Michiru?” Usagi said out of the blue.

 

Haruka turned around and leaned against the sink behind her, “What brings this on?”

 

Usagi didn't seem to expect that question, so she quickly offered up the best answer she could think of. “I-I'm just curious.”

 

“Curious…eh?” Haruka questioned as she scrutinized the younger girl. The Moon Princess blushed under the other woman's gaze, prompting her to smile charmingly.

 

“Haruka, I'm asking you a serious question. Please answer me seriously.”

 

“Okay. Okay.” Haruka said holding up her hands defensively. “You asked how I knew it was true love with Michiru, but that's hard to say, it's just something I knew. One thing that was different was that I wasn't ever serious with anyone until I met Michiru. Of course, we got off to a rough start, due to my own denial of certain things.” She said and thought back to her time before she accepted her senshi duties. “Even though I didn't let myself acknowledge my feelings for Michi, I think they were always there from the moment I met her. We had a connection that I couldn't ignore. When I finally accepted my destiny, I also gained a partner for life on the battlefield and off. We understood each better than I thought possible, we know what the other is thinking without having to voice it. At that time, no even before then, I knew there could no one else for me.”

 

“The two of you are truly soul-mates then…” The younger girl muttered, almost inaudibly. She fell silent for a short time afterwards. She felt a little more relaxed after listening to Haruka. Even though she didn't get an answer to the question she came ask, she felt at ease with her decision whether it was right or wrong only time would tell. She glanced that the clock on the wall across the room, it was getting later and she'd have a bit of a hike to school from her current location. “I think I'll be going Haruka. Thanks for your help.”

 

`Help?' She thought, feeling somewhat perplexed. “Didn't you want to wait for Setsuna?”

 

“It's alright. I should head to school anyway. I shouldn't skip the full day. Besides you said it yourself, there's no way to tell when she'll be back anyway, right?”

 

“Yeah, that's true but…”

 

“It's okay.” Usagi said with a warm smile. “I'll see her later away way.” She collected her bag from the ground and started toward the door.

 

Haruka was behind after a few moments, “Do you want me to give you a ride? It'd be a lot quicker.”

 

She stopped and appeared to be thinking over the offer before shaking her head, “No, I think I'd like to walk. Thanks for the offer though.” She reached for the door and turned the knob. “I'm sorry to have dropped by unannounced like I did.”

 

“Its fine, drop by when ever you want, I won't complain.” Haruka said with a small smile.

 

Usagi smiled in return and opened the door. “I'll see you this afternoon, be sure to be there.” She said and stepped through the door.

 

“Don't worry, we'll be there.” The senshi of wind assured her.

 

Usagi nodded, “Thanks.” She called before skipping away.

 

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

 

Diana continued to let Kei lead her until they reached a pair of familiar doors. Kei pushed the doors opened and let her companion enter first. When they were both inside she closed the doors and they continued deeper into the room. Kei took her familiar seat, towards the end of the room. She took one deep breath before speaking, “Everything has been set in motion to bring an end to this fight. The letter you delivered was the beginning. After reading the contents, Serenity without a doubt come look for a fight.”

 

Diana stared at the other woman with unblinking eyes, “I-I'm sorry…what?”

 

“It's exactly as I said. If everything goes as it should, this will all end tonight. A speedy resolution is best, I'm sure you can agree to that.” Kei explained.

 

“Yes, but…”

 

“Are you not pleased, Diana?” Kei asked.

 

“A quick end is always preferable. A long drawn-out fight only leads to unnecessary causalities.”

 

“There are always causalities; it's unavoidable in any conflict. If you can't handle the consequences fighting you should be fighting.” Kei stated.

 

“That's not the issue.”

 

Kei leaned forward a bit and asked, “Then what is?”

 

“I…I just have some things on my mind, that's all…” Diana said and trailed off somewhat as she looked away from her companion.

 

“Such as…” Kei said encouraging the other woman to continue.

 

She turned her head back and wore an expressionless face. She didn't like the implication that she was weak. “Nothing important, there's reason to have brought it up.” She said dismissively.

 

Kei looked at her as if she didn't believe her, but she disguised it quickly and stood up from her chair and walked down to Mars. Mars made no movement and only watched Kei approach. Kei stopped in front of Mars and leaned down to the younger girl's ear, “I'll keep you away from the fight if you can't…” she said softly.

 

Mars felt hot breath on her ear as Kei talked, but remained unemotional, “That won't be necessary, I'll handle them.” Mars said. This wasn't how she hoped it to happen, but there was no doubt in her mind that she could handle anyone. Of course, she couldn't say that she had any desire to kill the girl that she'd already been told she had to kill. `This would be the quickest way to see her again though and at that point I can decide what to do.'

 

Kei had feeling that Mars must have just thought something, but for some reason she couldn't read her mind that time, but dismissed it as a misinterpretation. “You are dismissed, Diana.”

 

She merely nodded and began to exit the room. However, when she reached the door she paused, “It's rude to try to read someone's mind without their permission. I've stayed out of your mind and I'll thank you to do the same in the future.”

 

On the other side of the room Kei's eyes widened, `She blocked me?' Diana didn't wait for any kind of response before leaving the still stunned woman behind. She wasn't surprised often but she was surprised right now. She felt something she hadn't anticipated to feel, especially when everything was in place exactly how she wanted it. She felt apprehensive about using Mars. There were better candidates to use, but using her added a special element to her plan.

 

“Can she really be trusted to handle the Sailor Senshi?” Ryuji asked as he stepped out from behind her `throne'.

 

“This is what I have worked so long for. It is most ironic for her kill her princess, the one she should be protecting from harm, but more than that she holds on to these ridiculous notions of love and where has that gotten her. And yet even without knowledge of exactly who Serenity is, she does still seem hesitant to kill her.” Kei acknowledged. She brought her hand to her chin in thought, “Perhaps it would be a good idea for all the key players to enter the fray.” Kei said bringing a smile to Ryuji's face. “There is a task I need you to accomplish, Ryuji.”

 

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

 

Michiru and Haruka sat next to each other on their sofa in their front room watching television. It had been nearly a half hour since Usagi left and there was still no sign of the senshi of time. After taking getting dressed Michiru woke up Hotaru, who was currently taking a shower of her own. Suddenly and without a word Setsuna entered the room with a cup of coffee and sat down on the chair beside the sofa.

 

After a few minutes of silence, save for the background noise of the television, Haruka asked, “Where were you?”

 

The older woman took a sip from her mug and replied, “I was just straightened up some loose ends.”

 

“Bunny was just here.” Haruka said casually.

 

The green haired woman stared at the woman who just spoke, “Usagi was here?”

 

“Yes. She said that she wanted to speak with you, but you weren't here.” Michiru explained. “It seemed like she felt it was important, but after she talked to Haruka, she left. It was a short time ago, just before you arrived.”

 

Setsuna turned from Michiru to the other woman in the room, “What did she talk with you about?”

 

“It wasn't much. She just asked me about how I knew Michi was my other half. I'm not sure why Usagi wanted to know, but after I told her how I knew, she up and left for school.”

 

“Usagi-san was here?”

 

The three women looked to the door and saw the youngest of their group standing in the door way. Hotaru looked at the group curiously; she could have sworn she heard Haruka say something about their Princess being there.

 

“Yes. Usagi came by to talk with Setsuna, but she was out and she left before Setsuna could return.” Michiru explained and slid closer to Haruka to make room for the other girl. Hotaru came inside and sat beside Michiru, who continued once she was seated. “Another important thing did come up while she was here though. She told us that she ran into Rei last night.”

 

Setsuna closed her eyes for a moment, even though she regretted not being there when Usagi came by, she knew she did the right thing. Everything was going to conclude shortly and Usagi's conversation with Haruka sealed in her mind exactly what path things would take, that made it even more critical that she finished what she was doing, they were out of time.

 

“She also wants all of us to meet at Makoto's place at four to discuss what happened.” Michiru added.

 

Hotaru looked at Setsuna, as though she was trying to read her, but she couldn't tell what the stoic woman was thinking at all. From the sound of things though, everything was drawing to a close…very soon.

 

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

 

Usagi stopped and leaned against the brick column and pulled out her cell phone from her backpack. She flipped it open and stared at the time. It was nearly lunch period, she expect to back before then. As it was she surmised it was to simply wait outside the entrance until the tone sounded to signify the start of the next period. She took the time to send messages to her friend letting them know she was outside the school waiting for the next period to start and that she'd see them in their usual spot. She was sure they'd have their phones close by and they'd get her message before seeing her. Only a short time later, Usagi heard the noise she was waiting to hear. She wondered ideally why it never felt like it came that quickly when she was waiting for it in the classroom. She waited a bit longer for other students to start filing out for lunch before entering the grounds. At the first sign of other students she casually walked past the entrance. She quickly went to the tree that she and other girls always sat under; she knew that would be where everyone would go.

 

She sat down and leaned against the tree and scanned the area for her friends. She expected them to show up quickly and most likely be full of questions once they saw her. After only her third scan over the area she spotted her friends rushing over to where she sat. It seemed like they hoped she was there. After weaving in and out of people, her three friends were finally sitting next to her.

 

“Where were you?” That was the first thing out of Minako's mouth.

 

Before she could answer, Makoto chimed in, “Yeah, your message only said you'd be a little late. The day is almost over.”

 

“Some thing must have happened, right Usagi?” Ami asked.

 

“Okay. Okay. First…” Usagi said and looked at Minako, “I went to Haruka's place. Second…” She said and looked at Makoto this time, “I wanted to talk to Setsuna, but she wasn't there. I waited for her, but she still didn't show. Third…” This time she turned to Ami, “Nothing happened today, but something happened last night.”

 

All three girls looked relieved to have the initial questions answered but that just brought more questions to mind. Usagi knew exactly what was coming next though, “It's Rei. I saw her last night, and she gave me something from the woman behind all this.”

 

“What did she give you?” Minako asked.

 

“A letter, which reminds me…” Usagi said and looked the tall brunette in their group. “Mako-chan I hope is alright, but I kind of already step up a meeting at your place after school. I sort of wanted to discuss all of this with everyone then.”

 

Makoto shook her head slightly, “Its fine, that's where we've been having meetings mostly anyway.”

 

“Sorry, I didn't ask first.”

 

“Don't worry about it.” Makoto said dismissively.

 

The school bell toned after that, informing them break was over. All four girls stood up and headed toward the school. Ami looked over to Usagi, “I hope you have a good excuse thought out, or you might get in trouble.”

 

“Eh…an excuse.” She replied and thought about it, actually she hadn't really thought about it. Usagi put her hands together and gave the blue haired genius her puppy dog eyes, “Ami-chan, help me think of an excuse.” She begged.

 

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

 

A few hours later at Makoto's apartment…

 

“I don't think I have to say it, but this is obviously a trap.”

 

That was the first statement after Usagi finished. Everyone looked at Haruka after what she said. None gave a response, mostly due to them knowing she was right. The whole thing reeked of a trap to all of them, even Usagi herself. Usagi just went over the events of the night before, leaving out a few details. She didn't tell them that Rei hurt her like she did. It was between Rei and her, she reasoned with herself.

 

“But we don't any other choice.” Minako reasoned.

 

“But this is the opportunity we've been looking for, isn't it?” Ami asked the group optimistically.

 

Hotaru nodded, “It is. We know Rei-san will be there and all of us will be as well…this is the time we've been waiting for.”

 

“Actually Hotaru I wanted to ask, what's the first step in our plan?” Usagi asked.

 

Hotaru smiled, “I'll restrain Rei first and after that we'll have the opportunity to give you your power-up. The rest will be up to you then.”

 

Everyone looked at Hotaru curiously, but only one among them voiced their question, “Restrain her how exactly?” Minako asked.

 

Again the young girl smiled mysteriously, “You'll see.”

 

The room became silenced as some tried to determine what the senshi of death and rebirth had planed, while were simply thinking about the coming battle and what would happen afterwards. “We should leave shortly.” Setsuna suggested, getting everyone's attention, something that her suggestions often did.

 

“Let's move out then.” Haruka said and stood up, the waiting game wasn't any fun anyway. The rest of the group stood up and began to file toward the door.

 

“Usagi-san, do you think I can have a word with you before we leave?” Hotaru asked

 

The Moon Princess looked at Setsuna to see if they'd have enough time, she didn't say any thing, but the slight nod she gave her was enough. She stopped and watched everyone else walk out. When it was just the two of them, Hotaru shut the door and walked back to the center of the room. “Usagi-san, I want you to think seriously about what Rei means to you.”

 

“I have been…ever since that night she was taken, Hotaru-chan.”

 

“I'd imagine you have been.” Hotaru said quietly. “It's not that I want you to just think about that, I want you think about how far you're willing to go to ensure our Rei comes back. If my plan doesn't work, I don't know what we'll have to do.” Hotaru said seriously.

 

“What are you saying?” Usagi asked worriedly.

 

“I would prefer to not think about worst case scenarios, but I have to. If you can't bring Rei back as Eternal Sailor Moon, we may be forced to…” Hotaru started, but was cut off before she could finish.

 

“Don't say it! I will bring her back, no matter what it takes. If it comes to it, I'll use the Ginzuishou at its fullest potential…” Usagi paused when she saw Hotaru's expression, “I know what the consequences of that are, Hotaru. But I can't let Rei stay like that; I know it's tearing her apart inside.”

 

Hotaru nodded, “I understand Princess. Please have faith in yourself and in Rei-san. I have feeling that even for Eternal Sailor Moon this will be a difficult task, so be prepared.”

 

“Thank you Hotaru. No matter how difficult it may be, I will use every ounce of my power to bring her back.” Usagi vowed.

 

Hotaru smiled at Usagi's determination, she didn't know whether such at determination was good or bad but she believed in her. `She has truly grown into her role as this planet's savior. Her ideal to never let innocents suffer is truly her greatest asset. She will need all her will and strength on this; I just pray that will be enough. There is one other option, but don't know how willing she will be to…' A knocking on the door cut off Hotaru's thoughts.

 

“I'm sorry but we really need to be going. It's nearly six and we need to get to Juuban Central Park before then. The message said to meet there at shortly after sunset.” Mamoru said as he poked his head past the creak in the door.

 

“Ok, we'll be right out Mamo-chan.” Usagi said and Mamoru nodded in response before shutting the door again. Usagi turned back to Hotaru, “Don't worry, everything will work out. I won't fail, Rei means too much to me for me to fail.”

 

“Just so we're clear, your safety comes before Rei's. If things get out of hand…”

 

“Rei won't hurt me…” Usagi said as her hand unconsciously robed her neck through her turtleneck collar.

 

Hotaru stared at her blond friend curiously. She'd wondered why Usagi wore a turtleneck when it wasn't very cold out. “Usagi-san?” The girl in question quickly dropped her hand to her side, further piquing the younger girl's interest.

 

“Yes?” Usagi asked curiously.

 

“Let me see your neck.”

 

“Wh-Why?”

 

“Please, Usagi-san.”

 

Usagi sighed and lowered her head momentarily. She looked at Hotaru and reached up to her collar and pulled it down. The senshi of death and rebirth gasped at the purple and yellowish finger marks around the other girl's neck. She shook her head; she didn't think Rei would actually harm Usagi. She didn't have to ask the other girl for confirmation, it was obvious. “Come on and sit down. I can heal you if you give me a few moments.”

 

“Thanks, Hotaru.” Usagi said quietly. She sat down again and Hotaru walked behind her.

 

The dark haired girl held her hands over the other girl's neck. “You should have been more careful.” Hotaru said as she began to heal her. “I know Rei-san won't hurt you, but she isn't herself right now. You know that.”

 

“I understand that Hotaru, but I can't treat her like she's my enemy…I just can't do that.” She paused for a moment, enjoying the warm sensation she received in her neck from the young girl's technique. “Rei's hurting far worse than these bruises ever did. I won't let her continue to be in pain any more. This may sound selfish, but I need her. I just haven't felt whole with her gone. I've been missing something that is such a part of me I didn't even realize it was gone until she was taken from me.” Usagi looked over shoulder at Hotaru, “Does that make any sense at all?”

 

The senshi of death quietly listened to the other girl and at just about the same time as she finished talking, she finished healing her. She took her hands away from Usagi neck and walked in front of her. “It doesn't have to make sense, some feelings don't make sense they just are what they are. Take love for example, if some asked you why you love someone, you probably couldn't explain why; it just is what it is. Sometimes you can love someone and not even realize it or realize it too late and that person isn't around so you can't tell them how much you care about them.”

 

“Thank you, Hotaru.”

 

She nodded in response before adding, “We should be going.” Usagi nodded in agreement. With that, both girls left the room and joined everyone else outside.

 

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

 

Kei tapped her finger on the arm of her chair, it was nearly the promised time and for the first time in a while, she felt anxious. She scanned the room quickly but didn't notice any signs of the Ryuji. He was supposed to return as soon as he prepped the remaining youma for battle. `It shouldn't have taken this long.' She thought and stood up. Kei now took to pacing in front of her chair, she despised waiting and she thought that was a fact that she'd made clear to Ryuji previously. After what felt like the hundredth time walking back and forth, though it was actually closer to the tenth time, she heard some noise toward the front of the room. She looked up and watched it for a moment before sighing and sitting back down. Kei watched the youma approach quietly and didn't say anything until he knelt in front of her.

 

“And…?”

 

“Everything is prepared.” He answered simply

 

“Good. Now there is one more thing I need you to do.” Kei said and leaned forward slightly.

.

Ryuji nodded his head, “Whatever you wish.”

 

“It should nearly be evening in the city where the Sailor Senshi are, Tokyo. You should know of a place called Juuban Central Park, correct?” Kei asked, prompting the youma to nod. “Good. There you'll meet all of Sailor Senshi, I'm sure she'll bring all of them. Your purpose is to open a path for the Sailor Senshi to come here.” Kei instructed. “If they show any hesitation make sure they understand they only have a limited amount of time before you close the path. Remind them if they don't take the opportunity given to them, Mars will die.”

 

“So you only wish me to guide them here?” He asked

 

“Correct. Once they follow you, you are to return to me. Do you understand?”

 

“Yes, I will complete my mission flawlessly.” He said and turned to leave.

 

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

 

Two cars parked in to the nearly empty parking lot at Juuban Central Park and their occupants left the vehicles and marched into the park. Once they were sure they were away from any prying eyes, all members of the group under went a transformation.

 

“So, where exactly are we supposed to be in this park?” Uranus asked.

 

Sailor Moon shook her head, “I don't know, the letter just said to be in the park and we're already here.”

 

“I think we should just stay here. We're away from any civilians, just in case this gets out of hand here.” Venus said.

 

“I agree. We don't know what to expect now that we're here.” Neptune added.

 

Venus looked to her right at the blue hair girl beside her, “Mercury, scan the area for any youma.” She instructed, but no more than a few seconds later an unfamiliar voice resonated through out the area.

 

“Ah…so you did decided to bring all of them, Princess?”

 

The Sailor Senshi and Tuxedo Mask looked around for the owner of the voice without much luck. It became clear who the voice belonged to when a large youma stepped out from behind a small group of trees. How such a large youma remained hidden from them behind a few trees was unknown to the group.

 

“She said you would bring the whole team.” He said as he stared at Sailor Moon.

 

Tuxedo Kamen stepped in front of Sailor Moon, “Don't even think of trying anything, you're greatly outnumbered.”

 

“I wasn't talking to you.” The youma said angrily.

 

“Crescent Beam!”

 

Ryuji tilted his head to the side to avoid the beam of energy. “Tsk…tsk…this is not where we fight. I'm only your guide to setting of your demises.”

 

“Just shut up and take us to where Rei is!” Jupiter yelled at the youma.

 

“Very well.” Ryuji remarked quietly. He held his hand up and within a couple seconds a long pole formed in his hand. He grabbed the weapon tightly and looked back at the group behind him and smiled. With one downward swing, he cut open a gateway. Without any hesitation he started to walk forward, but stopped when he realized he wasn't being followed. “This will not stay open forever, so if you truly wish to meet with your senshi again you'd be wise to hurry.”

 

Everyone looked at one another; they didn't really have any other choice. With a quick nod to each other, they followed the youma to their unknown destination.

 

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

 

`They're here.' Kei thought to herself before looking to Mars for her reaction. Mars' head shot up quickly and she looked over her shoulder, toward the door. `So she's noticed as well…' “It seems our guests have finally arrived to the party.” Kei said and paused for a moment. “Would you be so kind as to greet them properly?”

 

Mars looked back to Kei and nodded her head slightly, “I can do that.” She said and stood up. Mars walked to the door and was about to open it when it opened. She watched a large youma walk past her in to the room as she was leaving. She didn't think much of it; it wasn't her choice what company Kei kept, besides she there were other things on her mind.

 

She walked down the hall that would lead her outside the walls of the palace at a quick pace. Her thoughts were jumbled and it worried her, `I'm not in the right state of mind to go into battle and yet that is the very place I march to.' There was no turning back now, but she'd made up her mind about what to do. She'd just beat them to the point where they'd be forced to give up.

 

She could hear voices in the distance and they grew louder as she continued walking. They didn't seem to make any effort to hide themselves. When she reached the end of the hall, she could finally make out what the voices were saying.

 

“Where did that youma go?” One of them said.

 

Mars stopped in the arch-way and leaned against the frame on the left, so she was still in the shadows. She peaked outside, but she couldn't see any one. `They must be around the corner.' She stepped out and followed the side of the building until she reached the corner. She took a quick look around the corner to confirm her suspicious, which she did. `They're sitting ducks waiting out in the open.' She thought to herself and shook her head. It would be easy to pick them off one by one from her position, but that was cowardly. She silently decided to watch them until the right moment arrived.

 

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

 

“Why did he take us here?” Jupiter thought aloud.

 

“What is here anyway?” Mercury asked. Everyone took some time to look around after the senshi of water's question.

 

The senshi of time gasped loudly and stared at their surroundings in shock. “I-It can't be…”

 

The group turned to Pluto; she was staring at some point high ahead of where they were. Everyone followed her line of sight and saw she was staring at the top of the building. A distinctly shaped object stood where they looked and even though part of it was broken, it was clearly a crescent moon.

 

“How is it possible?” Neptune asked.

 

Sailor Moon ran a short distance away from the group and stared wide-eyed at the blue planet that floated in space that seemed like a short distance from where she stood.

 

“Sailor Moon, you shouldn't…” Venus began to say, but was silenced by the beautiful sight Sailor Moon was already looking at.

 

“It really looks different from here.” She stated quietly.

 

Everyone joined the two blondes, except for Sailor Pluto who continued to stare at the building a little while longer. It was really a sight to behold and there were so few who could ever claim to see the Earth as they were now. As Sailor Moon stared at Earth, she could understand why she had such a fascination with it during the Silver Millennium. Even Pluto joined them after a short while; she hadn't seen such a sight in a long time. It wasn't often she saw the Earth from this perspective even when Serenity lived in the castle.

 

“It's rather beautiful from here, isn't it?”

 

Everyone froze at hearing that voice. Rei. None of them expected her just appear before like she was there the whole time. Almost on command everyone turned to her and stared at her in surprise. She stood just a short distance away from them, but she was the perfect distance away to be able to counter any attack that could be tried. None could seem to muster the ability to say any thing initially, perhaps due to the surprise. Moon knew from the previous night to not do anything that would make her seem threatened. She would stick to their plan and have Saturn take the first action.

 

It was almost comical seeing everyone turn to her simultaneously. It seemed no one was even aware of her presence until she spoke to them. She was somewhat disappointed, she hadn't done anything to hide her presence outside not making any noise, yet they were still none the wiser. Her eyes traveled over all the members of the group; unsurprisingly the girl she'd already met was noticeably the strongest. It did surprise her that the girl who seemed to the youngest among them was as strong as she was. She figured her powers couldn't have developed completely, but that seemed to be wrong, age didn't matter. She found herself staring at the girl at the center of the group.

 

Mars smiled a bit and bowed her head ever so slightly toward the girl in the middle of the group, “Serenity I've already meet. I've yet to be formally introduced to the rest of you.”

 

The smallest one suddenly stepped forward. As she approached she held out her right arm and after a few seconds a long pole materialized in her hand, at the top of the pole sat a long curved blade. The girl stopped a short distance away, just outside the weapon's range.

 

“That's an awfully big weapon you have there, kid.” Mars commented. The pole itself stood taller than the girl who carried it, but the blade at the top added several more inches to its overall length.

 

Saturn raised her weapon above her head, “I hope with this you'll come back to us…”

 

“What…?” Mars started to say before being cut off.

 

“Death Ribbon Revolution!”

 

Saturn finished by pointing the blade at Mars, who quickly took a defensive stance, she had no idea what the other girl was planning though. Everyone watched on, curious about the young girl's attack. They'd never actually seen her perform any attack, though they'd only seen her for such a short time previously. Saturn's ultimate power was known to them since they fought off the death busters. This attack was not one that could destroy the world though. It didn't seem it could do any damage for that matter. The purpose of her attack became quite obvious when ribbons shot forth from Saturn's Silence Glaive and enveloped Sailor Mars. As the ribbons bound her and she struggled to free herself, but it was to no avail. Saturn held her weapon tighter as Mars continued to try to break free. “Please don't struggle, Rei. We are going to help you.” Saturn said and stepped back a little, “Everyone please concentrate and lend your powers to Sailor Moon.” Saturn called.

 

All the Sailor Senshi cleared their minds so their only thoughts would be of helping their friend by lending their powers to Sailor Moon. All the senshi began glowing and their auras, which were normally invisible, became visible to the naked eye.

 

Sailor Mars fell to her knees due to the constraint the ribbons put on her, “What are you planning?!” Mars questioned angrily.

 

`I can feel them, their power and will to help Rei.' Sailor Moon thought as she shut her eyes.

 

“Moon Eternal, Make Up.” Moon whispered and in the blink of an eye, she changed. Moon's crisis compact changed to her eternal compact, her moon kaleidoscope changed to her eternal tier, and fuku changed from Super Sailor Moon fuku to her Eternal Sailor Moon fuku. Sailor Moon opened her eyes and she had fully transformed into Eternal Sailor Moon.

 

All the senshi looked on in amazement, as Super Sailor Moon changed into Eternal Sailor Moon right before their eyes. Eternal Moon just radiated with love and immense power, far beyond what any of them expected, even Saturn and Pluto. Neither expected her be as powerful as she was without the extra power from Sailor Mars.

 

Saturn moved next to Eternal Moon and spoke to her quietly, “You don't have much time. You must bring Rei back now, while you can still maintain your transformation.” Sailor Moon nodded her head and approached the kneeling Sailor Senshi.

 

“Wh-What are you?!” Mars demanded. For a brief moment she saw a girl in a school uniform with a weird hairstyle smiling cheerfully at her, superimposed where this new senshi was standing in front of her. And for some reason, she didn't understand why, but seeing that school girl made her feel incredibly sad. One thing she could figure out from what she felt was that, she didn't want to be around that girl if she had to feel that level of sadness.

 

“Rei…” Eternal Moon said sadly.

 

“Don't come any closer to me!” Mars demanded, but Moon paid no heed to her demands. She tried to break free of the ribbons that bound her, but the more she struggled the tighter they seemed to get.

 

“Rei please, I'm going to bring you back.” Moon said resolutely and positioned her Eternal Tier in front of herself. Mars noticeably flinched at the light the object emitted.

 

“I won't let you! Go forth my youma!” Someone yelled appearing seemingly out of no where along with at least a couple dozen youma, including Ryuji; however he remained at her side unlike the other youma that just charged the Sailor Senshi.

 

`Damn it, we need more time.' Saturn thought and looked over her shoulder, “Everyone, please! We need more time! I can't leave my position until Sailor Moon has restored Mars.” Everyone, except for Pluto and Tuxedo Kamen, nodded their heads and ran to meet the new onslaught of youma.

 

`Good attack the small fries that will only make you open to our attacks.' Kei thought. “Ryuji, it's time! Go on a rampage!” Kei told Ryuji, and he smiled evilly at the senshi.

 

The large youma charged the senshi that remained with Mars like a bull seeing red. Suddenly three projectiles flew at the ground just ahead of his charge. The youma stopped on a dime before he could be struck by the objects. He looked at the ground and saw three thorn-filled red flowers just in front of his feet.

 

The lone male among the group of warriors stepped toward the large youma. He glanced over to Moon and Saturn before looked at the youma, “I'll give you some more time.”

 

“Be careful, he's very powerful.” Saturn said seriously.

 

Tuxedo Kamen nodded and opened his mouth to say something, but closed it without saying anything. He took a deep breath before opening his mouth once more, “Good luck.” And with that he sped off to meet the youma that left only Pluto with Saturn and Moon.

 

Pluto stared at the only person, who hadn't made any real motion to do anything, but she doubted that would last for long; the dark haired senshi of time knew where she had to go. “I will deal with Kei. She and I have unresolved issues. You two needn't worry, about her doing anything. Just do what you two have to do.” Pluto said addressing Saturn and Eternal Moon.

 

Both girls nodded their heads. Saturn looked over to Moon, “It's all up to you now.” She stepped away from the other girl a little, giving her all the room she could need.

 

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

 

The Sailor Senshi lined up, seemingly creating a wall between the youma onslaught and the three senshi behind them. Seeing the senshi lined up in front of them, they youma stopped their blind rush forward, it seemed they were rethinking that idea. There didn't seem to be a real leader among them though, making a new strategy difficult.

 

Uranus' eyes scouted the group of youma, “There looks to be about thirty of them.”

 

“That means roughly 6 youma each if Sailor Moon can't bring Mars back to our side quickly.” Neptune added as she looked down the line of warriors.

 

“None of them can be allowed to get past us.” Venus stated while she glared out at the gathering youma.

 

“Do you think there's any chance they'll do us a favor and come one at a time?” Jupiter asked, half jokingly.

 

“Doubtful.” Mercury said as she pressed her earring, causing the visor that covered her eyes to disappear. “These youma aren't particularly strong, however they do have numbers on their side and I'm sure they'll use that to their advantage.”

 

The youma seemed to find their bravado again because they seemed to begin their charge forward once more. “Let's do this then.” Venus announced, while her fellow senshi nodded their heads in agreement.

 

“World Shaking!”

“Deep Submerge!”

“Venus Love and Beauty Shock!”

“Jupiter Oak Evolution!”

“Mercury Aqua Rhapsody!”

 

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

 

Tuxedo Kamen held his cane defensively in front of himself, “I can't let you interfere with them.”

 

The large youma stared at the man for a short time before replying. “You must seriously have some kind of death wish little man…” Ryuji said with sinister smile on his face.

 

“I have no intention of dying any time soon.” Tuxedo Kamen replied back.

 

“Wrong…you won't last two minutes against me.” He said proudly.

 

“Why don't we just see about that?” The tuxedo clad man said and kicked off the ground. He leapt through the air with his cane raised above his head. As he descended down he swung the object down as hard as he could at the youma. A small smile spread across his lips as it seemed that he'd caught the monster unprepared, but it quickly faded as he saw him materialize a long pole into his hands, Tuxedo Kamen noticed the weapon bore a resemblance to Saturn's weapon. He frowned as his cane connected with the youma's weapon, instead of its body.

 

With his feet back on the ground, he held his cane tighter and tried to push the youma back. He gritted his teeth as he soon found it was he who was being pushed back, being overpowered by the youma. Tuxedo Kamen pulled back his cane and rolled to his left, giving him a bit of distance between the youma and himself. `It seems a battle of strength was a bad idea.' He thought as he observed the youma turning to him slowly. Witnessing his labored movement, another idea came to the tuxedo clad man. `Maybe I can use my speed against him…'

 

Tuxedo Kaman ran at the youma, but darted to his left just before reaching the creature. Ryuji's eyes widened slightly, not expecting the man to be so nimble, but his eyes quickly caught the tuxedo clad man. It seemed like he was trying to run circles around him, in order to make it hard to judge where he'd attack from. The youma shut his eyes and waited for the man to decide when to attack, there was no sense in him wasting energy. He opened his eyes, the human was about to attack.

 

“Fool!” Ryuji yelled and swung his large arm at the dark haired man.

 

Tuxedo Kamen hastily put up his arms in front of his face. He successfully blocked the youma's forearm, but the force behind the blow sent him head over heels across the ground several times, losing his hat in the process, before coming to a rough stop, face first in clay-like ground. He lay there motionless for several minutes, prompting the youma to walk closer to where he'd come to a stop, in order to inspect whether he'd already killed the human. The youma stopped when he finally saw movement from the man. The tuxedo clad man used his arms to push himself off the ground

 

“Do you see now human?” Ryuji said and paused, almost daring the man to respond. “I can kill any time I want, but it's been a while since I've had a fight. So, do me a favor and stay alive long enough for me to shake the rust off, okay?” He said and cocked his head to side, cracking it loudly.

 

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

 

Kei raised an eyebrow as she watched Sailor Pluto make her way over to her. She hadn't expected her to come to her directly. Of course, she wasn't greatly surprised either. It was almost better, this way she wouldn't be in the cross-fire of her youma. With her being so close, she could even subdue her if the need called for it. She couldn't help but let a smile cross her lips as Pluto got closer. “Do you like what I've done with the place?” Kei called as Pluto drew within earshot.

 

“I can't believe you'd desecrate this palace by allowing such foul creatures on these grounds. I didn't think you'd sink to this level.”

 

“You speak as though I've only just arrived here. If that's what you believe, you are quite wrong. I've been here for a very long time already. I simply thought it was time to invite the Princess back here.” She paused for a moment before adding, “I was honestly surprised so many of the structures still stood when I returned after so many years though.”

 

“Everything here is magical in nature. Of course they wouldn't fall under the weight of time. You should know that if you remembered your teachings. I see it was impossible for you to repair the damage this building sustained. Only one person could return everything to the splendor it once had…and that person is not you.”

 

“Enough talk about this decaying palace!” Kei stated angrily. “I had no desire to repair the damage to this place. As long as the defenses worked, that would be enough. They made sure you couldn't find me until I desired it.”

 

“That is true. It didn't even cross my mind that you'd use the Moon Palace as you have, but all that will end now.”

 

Kei stared at the senshi of time for a short time, `Why is she so confident?' Her eyes caught sight of the Moon Princess, both she and Saturn had Mars in a precarious position, but she wasn't worried. She had an idea as to what they were planning to do, it wouldn't work. A smug smile crossed her lips as she turned back to Pluto, “You must know their efforts are useless.” Kei said calmly.

 

“You're wrong.” Pluto said equally calm. “I believe they can be successful in undoing what you've done to Rei.”

 

She stared in the direction of Moon, Mars, and Saturn again. They definitely had something planned, but she knew her spell was flawless. Her gaze hardened as she said, “Impossible.” She looked back at Pluto, “Nothing she can do will reverse my spell.”

 

Pluto shook her head, “You don't understand the extent of the Princess' power. She's infinitely stronger than what she was just a few minutes ago.”

 

“Magical power alone isn't…”

 

“She also has the resolve to return Rei to her normal self, no matter the cost to herself.”

 

A smirk crossed Kei's face, though the senshi of time couldn't quite see it because her face was shadowed by her hood, “How noble…” her voice dripping with sarcasm.

 

“That's obviously something you can't understand. I had hoped there would still be a part of that girl you were at one time left, but it doesn't possible anymore. I thought my teachings would have had a big influence than what ever happened to turn in to what you are now.”

 

“I'm not a child anymore; don't speak to me as though I am one. Serenity will die. One way or another, I will make sure of that. And with that done, everything will be as it should have been!”

 

“As it should have been!” Pluto repeated angrily. “You don't understand a thing if that's what you believe. If the Princess were to lose her life this system would be thrown into utter chaos. Do you know why the Princess is to be protected, even if it cost all of us our lives?”

 

“Because that is what the fates have deemed.”

 

Pluto shook her head slowly, “Only she can bring peace to this solar system. Meaningless death upon meaningless death, only she can put an end to all of that. It is her destiny to do all of that and you have no right to interfere with that. Nor do you have the right hurt Mars as you have.”

 

“They both deserve what's coming to them.” Kei spat venomously.

 

“Where did all this anger come from? You weren't always the person you are now. The question has plagued me for so long…what brought about this change?”

 

“What the hell do you care for now?” Kei asked angrily.

 

“I've always cared! You simply lost your way so completely that you never saw it! I spent five years with you. Do you not think that I wished the best for you after I came to know you so well? I knew from the time you returned from that mission that you were different. I watched for any strange behavior and I saw the hard looks you would give Serenity, that's why I was there that night. Didn't you wonder how it was that I was there despite you hiding yourself perfectly?”

 

“I knew it wasn't a coincidence…and yet it wasn't you who stopped me, was it?”

 

“You're right it wasn't. Now though, I've seen you for what you are and I've resolved to do what I couldn't do back then. I will not let you have things your way. I won't allow you to harm the Princess any further. I will protect her life at all costs.” Pluto said and pointed her staff at her former apprentice.

 

“Chronos Typhoon!”

 

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

 

“What are you trying to accomplish?” Mars asked angrily.

 

Sailor Moon dropped to one knew in front of the solider of flames. She leaned forward, until her lips were next to Mars' right ear. “I'm going to restore you to your real self and then…I'll tell you when you're yourself again.” She said and stood up.

 

Mars stared at the other girl in confusion, “W-What?”

 

Sailor Moon only smiled in response. She then positioned her Eternal Tier in front of herself and Mars, “With this, I hope for you to return to your true self.” She held the object tighter and it then shot a burst of light at Mars. Moon could hear Rei scream out in pain and closed her eyes tightly, though a few tears slipped past her defensives. She had to keep repeating to herself why she was doing what she doing, Rei would thank her afterwards. The light grew brighter for an instant, before it started to fade.

 

“Did it work?” Saturn asked as she squinted her eyes due to the blinding light, trying to make out what Rei's condition was.

 

Eternal Sailor Moon fell to her knees and dropped her Eternal Tier, when the item hit the ground her eternal transformation began fading away. Everything that had changed from her transformation changed back and she was no longer Eternal Sailor Moon but rather Super Sailor Moon once again. The light began to fade even quicker and both Sailor Moon and Sailor Saturn looked hopefully in the direction of where Mars knelt earlier. As everything becomes visible again, they see…

 

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

End Ch. 31

 

Wow, this seemed to take forever to finish. It was going so smoothly initially and then I kind of hit a wall. I did add a lot in because initially, this chapter started in Makoto's apartment, but it would have been much shorter because where I ended this chapter is exactly where I wanted it to end. I won't make any promises as to when the next chapter will come out, just that it will come out…eventually. If it is a long wait, I promise it'll be worth it because everything that happens in it and of course you find you if Sailor Moon was successful.

 

 

*note: `Death Ribbon Revolution' is an attack Saturn uses in the SuperS video game for the Sega Saturn; I added my own twist to it. It seems to be a play on her `Death Reborn Revolution' attack that ends everything in exchange for her life, because when she uses that attack in the Infinity arc of the manga she seems to be surrounded by ribbons.