Sailor Moon Fan Fiction ❯ When Destiny Changed ❯ Chapter Six ( Chapter 6 )

New words for those who don't know (seems doubtful as most of us writers use it now and then).

Minna or mina: Everyone/Everybody

Tensai: Genius

Konnichiwa: Hello (Formal)

Atashiwa: My name is…/Name…

Kay, that's it. For my reviewers who do review many thanks! Cha!

SFS

Disclaimer: Kay got this idea from someone else. I disclaimed in the beginning. So, why do it every time? SM is not mine but all unknowns are my creation. Cha!

Chapter Six

The fire has always burned, bright and fierce at times of trouble. Now, it seemed to just burn, uncertain, flowing and fluttering as a normal fire would. It spoke of nothing. Only confusion and yet remorse for something I didn't understand. But I wouldn't give up, my concentration as sharp as a blade. Sleep was irrelevant, food unnecessary. Strength of will and determination would keep me going; understanding and endurance would nourish me. I needed nothing and no one. I was one with my inner mind and I blocked all around me.

Of coarse, there were those who worried for my health. Grandfather commented I looked pale and thin, Yuuichirou said I was fragile and my eyes seemed darkened and that rest was needed as well as food. I paid them no heed. Now was not the time to be distracted by superfluous things. If needed, I would comply with their wish but it happened very few times.

But most of what bothered my meditation was… them.

They wouldn't give up, they seemed determined that something was wrong with me. `If I'd only talk to them' were their words: to come to an acceptance of some kind. Acceptance… what need had I of that. Yes, it happened, yes, nothing could change it. But… I knew I could find why I had not seen this. There had to be a way. Even if years passed, I would know the answer… without rest, without food if necessary.

I felt the shift in movement around me, an alternating of the air. Still I kept my eyes closed, my hands folded before me as I sat in sight of the fire.

"I wish to be alone."

"You know I won't stop coming. Not until things change. This has got to stop. It's been over two months already."

My forehead furrowed but I wouldn't not let her words deter me.

"You seem the only one who's been able to get in here unnoticed. I've made it clear to grandfather what my wishes are and he respects that. How you do get in is a mystery. He prowls my door quite often."

It sounded like she made an off hand sound, shrugging, "I have my methods. And the others don't know I come so you needn't worry."

My voice didn't change at all as I continued my thoughts; "I'm not. You may as well leave. Nothing has changed."

"Yes," a new voice grew more stern, "It has." No sounds of footstep, no warning and I suddenly found myself on my back, hurled meters away from the fire, my face stinging. I opened my eyes then, and breathed in surprise, "Haruka-san."

Her figure was shadowed by the glow of the fire behind her and her hand was a tight fist at her chest, "Gomen. I didn't want to have to do that." Another figure stood in front of the fire, the one who always visited me.

My face grew angered, even irritated, "Traitor."

She shrugged nonchalantly, "Some things are necessary. Besides, she insisted."

"Either way," Haruka spoke, "I'd have come. Rei-chan, it's time you come with us."

I stood, dusty off my robes and walking with determination to the fire again. As I was about to pass between them, Haruka grabbed my arm, "I do insist."

I turned and glared at the other, "ET Tu., Makoto-chan?"

Her face was grave and stern as she took my other arm, "It's for your own good, Rei-chan."

I knew I could struggle, possibly have them down… but it wouldn't matter. They would only try again and I didn't exactly have somewhere to run.

"This is where I want to be…and this is where I will stay," I spoke between gritted teeth.

"Please don't make them carry you out," a third serious voice rang out and I knew my other captor as she stood in the shadows by a panel wall. Setsuna stood in civilian clothing but held her staff beside her.

" What is this? Can I not be left in peace! Gra-" I couldn't call out as Haruka's hand came over my mouth tightly.

"Gomen, Rei-chan," Makoto said quietly, "But this is for your own good."

My eyes widened as a sharp pain came to my neck and the world went dark.

~~~

"I really wish we hadn't needed to do that," I said as we drove in the yellow sports car, Setsuna in the back with Rei while Haruka drove.

"It was required," Haruka said looking forward at the road. I could only nod but I felt I had betrayed my friend in speaking of my seeing Rei.

"Don't worry, Makoto-chan," Setsuna said softly, "She will thank you later."

"I hope. Her grandfather and Yuuichirou will not suspect?"

"No," Haruka chuckled quietly, "They will leave her room alone tonight. From what Setsuna said, they'll be to tired to check on her."

I grinned a little, "Tensai, Setsuna-chan."

She smiled, "Not really. Just good ol' fashion sleeping pills in their coffee. They'll be all right in the morning."

"So where to from here?"

Haruka seemed quiet for a while before she spoke, "I think it's time Rei spoke to someone."

Setsuna was quiet as I asked, "Not a shrink, I hope. I had avoided that at all costs when…" I said nothing more.

"No," Setsuna answered, "They will be of no help to us. Do you know who has shift tonight?"

I thought and then blinked, "Well… you actually, now that you mention it. Shouldn't you be going there now?" Then it hit me, "You mean you want… But is that really a good idea to have both… I mean, they aren't exactly stable."

Haruka nodded, "He's begun to steady himself. Demo, it wouldn't hurt, I think, if they weren't alone later."

"So, we may have three of them together," Setsuna said quietly, "I just hope it works."

"Was this your idea?" I asked them both.

"Not entirely. Michiru and we had come to a decision and we happened to get a call from Ami. She had a suggestion and we're hoping it'll work."

"Do the others know then?"

"Not of how we planned to `kidnap' her," Haruka chuckled before becoming serious, "But yes, they are aware of the idea. Ami told them what she could."

I nodded and sighed deeply, "I hope this works." I leaned on a hand as I watched the world pass by.

Setsuna leaned forward, her hand on my shoulder, "How are you holding up, Makoto-chan?"

I tried to smile but failed, "I'm… I'm hanging in there. It's not the first time I've been exposed to death," I looked up in the night sky, forcing tears and thoughts of my parents away. Their plane crash… it still lived in my memory. The fear of planes was still there because of it. Would vehicles have the same effect because… I looked back, forcing a smile; "I'll survive."

"Don't let one death make you harder against another," she said quietly, with a reassuring squeeze, "Be sure to let your feelings release when needed. Rei is a good example of what happens when you don't. And I know you, Ami and Minako-chan have it rough hiding it while in school, especially around people who no longer know of… her."

I nodded as two tears rolled down my face, "Thanks, Setsuna-chan," I sniffed as Haruka handed me a tissue. Wiping my eyes and smiled genuinely, "I think I needed that. You know, after my parents were killed I felt like life had ended. But it began again when I met Usagi. She made me realize that fighting doesn't make the pain leave. It only increases it. I discovered love and friendship is what makes us stronger… and I felt I'd Iost that again when she… she died. I… I just can't deal with it anymore," these words caused the flood of tears I'd held for so long. I wept as Haruka leaned me to her where I cried in her shoulder, her arm around me as well as Setsuna's. "She's gone. My dearest friend in the world is gone!"

"It's okay. Let it all out." Haruka soothed as Setsuna rubbed my arm.

"Don't worry, Makoto-chan," She said softly, "This is good. It's the first step to healing. I only hope we can help the other three as well."

~~~

The door opened after I had knocked. In his usual dishelved appearance and hooded eyes, Mamoru stood there, surprised to see four of us instead of one. He blinked at Rei slumped in my arms. "Nani?"

"Gomen, Mamoru-san," Setsuna said as we entered the apartment, sitting down as I set Rei on one end of the couch. Mamoru ran a hand through his tangle of hair, take a seat at a kitchen chair.

"What's going on? Minna, I really don't want company these days."

"Gomen, Mamoru-chan," Makoto started, "But this is something that needs to be done."

My voice was stern as I turned to him, "As I said before, you may not be aware of what has been going on beyond your small apartment. You refuse to see the world so we bring it to you." I glanced at Rei's slumped form, "Setsuna, would you and Makoto explain?"

Nodding Setsuna address the quiet man, "Prince, Rei has been in deep meditation since that day over two months ago. She rarely eats, sleeps and does not speak with her friends."

"I happened to find a way in to see her," Makoto went on, "That's how I knew how bad it had gotten."

"She is determined to know why she didn't sense this coming. She burns her energy in search of answers. It will only weaken her if she goes on, maybe even kill her," Setsuna glanced down somewhat, then looked at Rei, "She blames herself and no one else, and she has no cause to. None of us saw this coming. Not even I… Guardian of the Time Gate itself. If it is anyone's fault, I blame myself more."

"Setsuna-chan," Mamoru raised a hand before letting it drop soon after, contemplating her words. I knew he must have thought of that too but he would say nothing to verify my thoughts.

"So," Makoto continued, "We decided that it was time for these feelings to be expressed. Believe me, it will be better for you. Three of you are whom we worry for the most. Rei losing her best friend, Hotaru losing one whom will never be born…and you losing your very soul mate." She had difficulty with these last words but swallowed bravely.

"It has been decided that you talk with each other, you and Rei first and perhaps Hotaru will join in."

Mamoru said nothing but only stared at the floor. There was a low moan and I could see Rei was coming around. Rising, I motioned for the others to follow me into the kitchen as Rei began to move.

Watching from the corner, I could see her eyes blink and register where she was. At first I could see an angry retort coming but it was halted by the haunted appearance of Mamoru sitting not far from her.

"M-Mamoru-chan," she whispered. He glanced up but said nothing. She just kept staring for a few moments and then suddenly, her eyes began to fill and she rushed to his side, gripping his hand and weeping in his arm, tears of too long holding. Her sobs were heavy and so heart felt I had to turn away to keep myself focused. I turned to the other two.

"Are the others coming?" I asked as Makoto nodded.

"Minako-chan was hesitant but I think she knew it would be best for Rei. Ami-chan took some convincing but I suppose since it was her idea, I believe she felt the healing process would be good for all concerned."

I nodded as Setsuna added, "Michiru will bring Hotaru. Whether or not anything happens is up to Hotaru. She is a child so this will all be very different for her. She may not wish this kind of help. She has her own ways."

"It will be tough for all of us," I said quietly and glanced around the corner as Mamoru had placed a hand on Rei shoulder, his eyes brimming as well. I felt confident.

"Demo I believe it is a start."

~~~

He glanced about, seeing that it was clear to continue. Walking across the busy intersection, I breathed in the night air, feeling its coolness envelop his lungs, and letting it out again. He kept his hands in the pockets of his long black leather trench coat; his dark shades still on, even if the sun was no longer out. His dark jeans and red silk shirt kept the cool breeze out and the black shoes were comfortable. This whole appearance was suitable, if not strange to him.

I suppose the styles here are not as bad as I had thought. It was just that boy it seems. It was rather strange at first to enter what they called a `mall' and when he found he needed some form of `money' to purchase certain items, he was unsure how to come by it. What he had worn into the mall was a cloak to hide his appearance and there were quite a number of odd looks that he gained from that.

So it was that he `came upon' some money by means not harmful to the thugs he had stopped but enough that would provide him well, and leave them a bit bruised but their victim very thankful and generous.

A strange place this was but none the less not much different from home. But while in the mall, he felt sure that someone had followed him. Not turning to see he had quickly disappeared in the crowd and soon lost his chaser. But who had it been? When he had turned, once out of site, all that could be seen were the crowds and a woman speaking with her child: an odd looking pair but nothing unusual. So he continued on his way, purchased items he felt necessary and then began his search for a place to stay.

This proved easier then the latter. He had come upon a quiet neighborhood not far from the bustle of downtown where he found himself an apartment. The landlady was in need of someone to care for the grounds and some maintenance. In exchange, an apartment was provided as well as some income for food and such. It was simple enough, though he was unaccustomed to this type of labor, but he soon found he enjoyed the gardening part and most often it was simple problems like leaks or heating troubles in the building. He felt it was sufficient.

At this time, he had begun his search. He had asked the landlady what she knew of any research facilities but all that was known was of one, year's back, which had been destroyed in a terrible storm. Perhaps if he asked around the city he may find out more. So it had been a long day of unanswered questions and false leads, ending the day feeling tired yet determined. Now he just strolled the streets, feeling a need not to be cooped up in a room.

He didn't realize where he was until the crash of garbage cans was heard. He looked up seeing the dark alley lit only by a forlorn street light. He could hear the cries and pleas for life, as well as the sniggering laughter and menacing sounds. He sighed as he went forward, catching sight of the dark shadows approaching the cowering couple in a corner.

"Come on, pops! I just want your doe!" one ruffian spat as the others grinned, waving knives.

"But we'd sure's likes a look at yer lady friend der," chuckled another, "Maybe we's could `get ta know' her, ne?" This caused laughter among them as the woman held the man with her tighter.

"H-here, take my money," the frighten man said, throwing his wallet before him, "Just leave my wife alone!"

"Oooh, I don't think I like your tone, mista!" the leader sniggered, "I think we need to teach you some manners."

"I'd say you need manners lesson more." Came a low voice from the shadows behind them. They spun to see him hidden in shadows.

From what could be seen, he wore black leather boots almost reaching mid thigh, followed by black leather pants. His top looked like armor, black with leather strapping it yet it didn't seem quite like armor. There were designs on it, engraved in silver, one looking like a small set of wings and a star, and he wore black leather gloves that just reached two inches past his elbows. He wore a dark hooded cloak, part of which covered his left shoulder and arm at an angle and something twinkled from his forehead but was unseen as his face was shadowed as well. It seemed that a long sword did hang at his side, the handle visible from within the cloak.

The leader of the thugs laughed, "Well, well what have we here?"

"Looks like we's got ou'selves a vigilante, Mick."

"Maybe it's wimpy Sailor Moon gone sour." Laughed another.

The leader chuckled, "Whoever he is, he's very suicidal."

The shadow chuckled darkly, "It would appear your companions have more creative ideas then your sad little mind can come up with. I'd have to say you're the suicidal one."

He growled, "No one talks to Slick Mick like that!" he rushed the shadow quickly, swiping his knife from side to side. The shadow stepped lightly away from each attack, jumping clear as Mick crashed head on into a wall.

"I take it you have not met with your other associates today," the shadow addressed the other two, "They were very sorry for hurting the nice people. Maybe you should apologize to this couple."

"Let's get `im!" Obviously not learning from their leaders mistake, the two thugs charged forward, knifes flashing. The shadow dodged each one, flipping over one and coming down with a swift kick to their head. He fell with a thud as the other carried on. The knife came close to slicing the shadows shoulder but he spun away and suddenly his sword was in his hand. He gave a quick kick to the man's chest sending him flying into more trashcans. Then in a flash of movement, his sword tip was pointed at the throat of the rising leader.

"Naughty, naughty. Now perhaps you'd apologize to these nice people and give them back their property."

Mick shook as he dropped the wallet before the couple, "S-sorry."

The shadow gave a quick glance to the couple, "I'd suggest you leave."

With no protest the couple fled the alley and were soon gone. The shadow brought their sword down and picked Mick up by the throat, "Now, how about a heart to heart?"

"S-sure, man. Anyt'ing you say."

"Who is this `Sailor Moon' you speak of?"

"S-she's some kind o-of s-super hero. Goes around s-saving people and g-getting' rid of m-monsters."

"And where might I find her?"

"I-I don't know…"

His fist tightened, "I'd suggest you be more willing to share information."

The man struggled but gurgled out words, "S-she's a b-blonde c-chick, in a s-sailor f-fuka. Haven't s-seen her around f-for months. I swear man, that's a-all I know!"

The shadow came close, his head lit from behind by the street lamp and his face dark, "It would be healthy for you to avoid coming out at night again. If I see you or your men again, you'll wish you'd never met me." He hissed the words, dropping the thug I suggest running. Fast!" the thug scrambled away quickly, tearing out of the alley and leaving his unconscious comrades behind.

He walked away from the scene, sheathing his sword as the cloak swirled behind him; his footstep sounding ominously to any would be attacker. He entered dark shadows and could not be seen.

Upon reaching the street, he stepped out as his appearance was as it had been before, coat, pants, shirt and shades. His ebony hair was tied at his neck and he adjusted his dark glasses. Seeing no one, he continued on his way home.

It seemed this world would not be so different after all.

~~~

I promise to help you.

The soft thought came to her but it seemed only a wistful fantasy. She could feel the cold in her heart still from when he had reached in her. He did own her… essentially.

Don't give in to those thoughts, came the soft voice again, It's what he wishes. Don't let him. You are stronger then you know.

Please… don't torture me with hopeless wishes. I know my fate. I will never escape.

Ahhh, I see he has reached you already. But take care, until he `enters' you, you are still free. I know… I know.

She only wrapped her arms around herself and huddled against the damp wall. She knew no hope. There was only sadness, darkness, and no escape. Why did her mind play such cruel tricks?

Please, believe me.

No, she thought without feeling, I have nothing, I hold nothing. There is no love nor was there ever. I've known only hardship.

I see in your very mind you once would never give in. You would fight for what is right.

I know of no such thoughts. Please, leave me. I do not wish for hopeless thoughts. He tortures me even now. Even my mind can no longer function.

At those words her eyes began to close, her very means of thinking beginning to vanish into nothing. The voice was sad yet filled with understanding.

I see it is too late. Nothing can be brought from this state. You feel you have lost all… and so you have. And yet… perhaps there is still a way. One that will leave me weakened and most likely, I too will be lost. But perhaps… you can be saved.

Light, soft yet ever growing began to glow above the girl. It slowly approached the unmoving body and kissed the tear stained face. Someone hissed.

`I see there was help. But this is too familiar. I will stop this!'

The light seemed to flutter, then with brilliance, entered the girl in a swift motion. The angry voice hissed in furry as it was backed away from the light. It cursed as the light died, only to find the girl gone.

`Infuriating light! But it could not have been he I hate. Woe is the one who seeks to prevent my wishes! I will find you, Little One! I own you, your very power and mind!' Everything rumbled and cracked like thunder, `Wherever you go, I will find you!'

You are mine!

~~~

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