United Love: Chapter 6.5 A tale told by Guardian Angel One Rated PG pure_angel_i@yahoo.com www.geocities.com/Area51/Dreamworld/3042/ Sorry this took forever to get out, guys, but this was not only one a hard part to write, but I didn't have much quality time spent writing it. It seems every time I finish a project for school, another one pops up and I just get so busy! I'll try to get these things out faster. GOMEN! The Disclaimer is here. The Disclaimer tells a sad Guardian that she does in no way and can in no way own Sailor Moon. Guardian brightens with the news that the story idea and bad guys are hers to keep. +++ Change of scenery < > Present character's thoughts * * A memory Please read the bottom notes! ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ o}--+----- June 4, 1998 Rose Palace King Ravi of Earth groaned as he pushed himself up, using the wall to keep steady. He ran his tan hand through his light silvery hair, his rose red eyes flashing as they glanced over the damaged room. Everything was in shambles, but nothing couldn't be replaced or repaired. Using a little of his Sun powers, he felt around for his family. After a breathless minute, he finally felt both their presence. Endymion was in the gardens with Jadeite and Raine, while his wife was in the Private room. All four were sleeping. He turned to the side, where a now burnt-out-and-smashed-in-comm was located. Sighing, he stumbled to the door. Best to go see who was up and about, and then find out why no one had awakened him if any one was. The window caught his eye. He remembered what he had seen before being knocked out- the Kingdom of the Moon, headed straight for the palace! Gasping, he practically ran over to the window, which only furthered his shock. Standing next to the walls, which served as the palace border, was the walls that bordered the Moon Palace! "WHAT THE DEVIL!" "What is it?" asked an edgy male voice. Ravi motioned Kunzite over to the window. "HOW ON EARTH did THAT get THERE!" he shouted, anger seeping into his silvery eyes. Kunzite stared out at the impossible sight, feeling his jaw go slack. Further angered by his sudden display of emotion, Kunzite turned his eyes away, forcing a mask on his face to cover his emotions. "We must contact the others. I'll have every guard around the perimeter. We should meet in the war room to- my liege?" Kunzite realized his audience had turned his attention to the door, his intent apparent. "Where are you going? I've already contacted everyone, and no one was severely harmed-" "I know that. But I don't think the Moon is the only planet attached to us," was the reply. Kunzite's only show of emotion was a raised eyebrow, as he dutifully followed his king out the door to the war room. There, they could analyze who their new neighbors were, and how to deal with all the destruction and new living conditions. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ o}--+----- June 4, Crystal Tokyo Palace King Endymion was the first to regain consciousness in the palace. Looking around him, he noticed the children lying around in various spots around the room. Turning to his sides, he quickly checked his children. Nothing but a few minor injuries. Realizing he was holding his breath with worry, he closed his eyes and exhaled. Endymion concentrated, focusing his powers on the link he had with the other Neo- Queens and Kings. His mind swept through each, finding only Raye, Jadeite, Amy, Zoicite, Alex, Adler, Sophea, and William awake. asked Neo-King William of Pluto. Raye said. Amy's strained voice. Zoicite interrupted. muttered the Martian Queen. A now awoken Mina tried to keep her voice from trembling. William broke in, his deep voice lightening a little, showing his surprise. The fact that William would show surprise so suddenly perked everyone's attention. demanded an impatient Endymion. Jadeite's chuckles could be heard through the mental link. Endymion lost his train of thought as he looked out the window, facing what was usually the setting sun. He had looked out that window with his arms around Serena when she told him she was pregnant with Kenji and Ikuko. They had watched a hundred and twenty-six sunsets through that window. He had watched Serena walk with Raye and Mina, pushing their baby strollers with sleeping princesses in them. He had stared out that window a thousand times after her death, thinking of where she was. Remembering the sunsets they shared. But they would see the beautiful sun sink below the Earth no longer. Because not very far from the window stood the PhobosDeimos Castle. And next to it, the restored Moon Palace and a golden Magellan Castle. And if he looked hard enough, he could see Jadeite waving, Raye hitting him, Mina trying to shout to him, and a frustrated Kunzite trying to keep his wife from falling out of the window. And if he squinted further, he could see the rest of the Sailors, standing at their windows of their castles facing various angles, in their respective kingdoms. King Endymion felt a presence next to him. Neo-Sailor Venus was standing next to him, her light blonde hair floating around her cherubim face as her gray eyes twinkled with surprise, then happiness as the fourteen-year-old clapped her hands. "HEY MOM! HEY DADDY! CAN WE KEEP IT LIKE THIS?" ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ o}--+----- Later, Crystal Tokyo It had taken a time to get everyone in order, but everyone was now gathered in the room. A circular table made of marble took up most of the gigantic meeting hall, and with the everyone there, the room seemed to be perfectly suited to them. Each family constituted of the king, the son, the daughter, then the queen, only to be followed in the similar pattern. The unofficial head was the spot occupied by King Endymion, his daughters on his left, his sons on his right, and Helios after them. Between him and his daughters sat an empty throne- he had never had the heart to take it down. It would be like he was erasing her from his life, and after so many changes, even the littlest thing was hard to let go. In a way, it was like a comfort, knowing that she could be there in spirit, laughing at the way they were so serious about everything in this room. Mina thought to herself in her seat as Neo-Queen Venus. Using her powers, she felt through the hearts of everyone. The kids were a bit hesitant, since they had never faced a serious threat before. The adults were calmer, but confused and angry over the events. Mina looked in her own heart and admitted that she was ready to kill the guy who had dared to harm her children, but she also realized that from the apparent display of power she wouldn't get very far. Years of experience had taught her to look before she leapt, and Mina always listened to her instincts. The stress over the threat seemed to also affect everyone physically. All the adults seemed weary, even a couple of the kids, who had been working non-stop since they were awakened. She had a feeling her schedule would be full for awhile. As the royal counselor, her job tended to get busy all at once. She looked down at her own family. Neo-Princess Margaret of Venus, Neo-Sailor Venus, with her mother's white blond hair and her fathers gray eyes, she was almost exactly like her mother, but just a bit more flighty. Next to her was her older brother, Kevin, the Neo-general to Prince Kenji. Kevin was a fighter and strategist, though he dearly loved his sister. And then her husband, Neo-King Kunzite, General to King Endymion. His steel gray eyes seemed to take in all she did, and a glance at her was all she needed to see that he was angry over this also, his hard gray eyes sparkling with danger. Endymion cleared his throat, effectively grabbing everyone's attention, and a frown from the Mercurial Court. "I know we are all upset about the recent events, but we have to be logical about all of this. Uranus, Venus, what did you find out about the surrounding kingdoms?" "I think you should see for yourselves," Queen Uranus spoke. She nodded to King Nephrite, who pushed a couple buttons. A small square opened up in the middle of the table, and light shone out to reveal a holographic 3-D image map. "We are all located at these points," King Adler for his wife. "The darker areas are unidentified territories, although scans have shown their are startling similar. Almost like mirror planets to each one of ours, in doubles. Their technology is not as advanced as ours, and they seem to be very weary of everything." "Has there been any motion of contact?" asked William. Of the entire Royal Pluto family, he was the one who seemed most interested in the discussion. Queen Pluto and her daughter seemed unaware of anything going on around them, a rare oddity that caused some concern in all of them. Venus probed a little bit into the Plutonian mind, only to be kicked out rudely. Pluto spared Venus a dark glance, silently ordering Venus to allow her problems to be left in solitude before returning her gaze to the tabletop in front of her. Neo-Princess Sibillia was no better, although her youth allowed her some emotion on her face. She seemed troubled, as if there was something deeply wrong that she desperately wanted to tell everyone, but knew that she couldn't. Venus was glad she was not placed as the Time Guard- she would have failed after ten seconds. "No, although that may be due to casualties and the destruction. Mainframe says they woke up about the time we did, though our damage has been more extensive as we are ill prepared for such phenomena. The unidentified territories seem to be more prepared for such attacks." "Any sign of hostility?" asked Lita. She leaned her brunette head in further, elbows placed before her, and hands folded underneath her chin. Her emerald eyes looked curiously at Adler. "Not so far." "How much damage did Crystal Tokyo suffer?" King Endymion quietly inquired. Amy typed in a couple words on the computer console in front of her seat. A smaller hologram viewer showed the image of Crystal Tokyo up-close. "Because we were caught off- guard, none of our shields were raised in time to completely block the unidentified force. However, the attack seemed not to have any designated target or purpose, and the beam was randomly enough not to direct enough power on a certain point to cause too much damage. Damage is minor, but extensive in some areas. Fortunately, those areas aren't inhabited. Minor casualties of over a thousand worldwide, no major casualties, deaths, or missing persons reported." "In other words, this attack may not have been an attack," King Zoicite concluded. "And about the other kingdoms? From the information so far, it appears they have not caused this." Queen Alex sat back in her chair, her cropped dirty blond hair matted against the high-backed chair. Even to this day, she still showed some masculine qualities, and had refused to allow her hair to grow out even after she became a queen with Adler as her king. The former Moon General looked at his wife, taking her words into consideration. "I sense no evil intentions," Queen Raye quietly stated. "The mirror has shown no hostility between them and us." King Dylan answered for his wife. Endymion looked to Pluto. "I suppose you cannot reveal to us what the future may hold?" "I cannot reveal anything. The Gate..." Pluto raised her head high, her stoic face trying to mask the pain she was feeling. Princess Serenity was the first to catch on to her oldest friend's feelings. "Pu! What is wrong?" "The Time Gate, some how, has locked it's doors to us," answered Neo-Princess Sibilia for her mother. Gasps of shock could be heard around the room. "What? But what does this mean? Why would the Gate of Time lock you out?" asked Neo-Queen Ana of Saturn. "We don't know. All we know is that nothing is allowed in or out." "What of your powers?" King Kunzite inquired. "We can still access the powers to Pluto. But we are 'ordinary' after that." Pluto finally spoke. Her magenta eyes hardened with determination. "Unfortunately, we do not know what caused this. Which means a powerful, unidentified power is somewhere around here, playing tricks on us. And if they can control the Time Gates... God have mercy on us." "But You can still fight! Be thankful for your powers and don't worry about it now. We'll take care of it. Besides, nothing's happened so far," Princess Honor of Uranus responded. Her parent's confidence had been a major inherited characteristic. "Why don't we talk to the other kingdoms? Perhaps they know more?" asked King Zoicite. "Shall we?" Endymion responded, gesturing to Mina to hail the other kingdoms. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ o}--+----- the War Room, Earth Palace Everyone had arrived. The royalty of Neptune and Mars had been able to teleport to the Rose Palace safely. Now, the Neptus King Murray and Queen Cordelia sat with their daughter, Princess Marina. Opposite of them was the Martian King Keegan and Queen Etana, with their daughter, Princess Raine. Next to her sat the Earth/Sun prince, and her fiancé, Prince Endymion. His four guards, Kunzite, Jadeite, Nephrite, and Zoicite sat around the Solan King Ravi and Earthen Queen Primrose, Endymion's parents. On the center of the long steel table they sat at was a censored map, showing the "new arrangement". "We are surrounded by our enemies, and separated. This is proof that they caused this!" roared Keegan, his Martian temper quickly coming in full force. His daughter and wife nodded. "But where could they get the power? And if they could do that, then why not use the power to kill us, instead of doing this?" questioned Cordelia. "We must not assume anything. That will be our downfall. First, let us organize ourselves." Primrose told them. She looked around at everyone, looking for any sign of objection. Keegan nodded his head for her to continue after a moment. "First of all, I suggest all shields to be raised at half-power. That way we conserve energy and are protected. Also, a double set of guards. All will be called in, no man spared. "Communication shall be minimum. Everyone will be ordered to stay indoors until we get things straightened out. Only necessary repairs will be made. We should try and create a tactical plan in case the others-" ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ o}--+----- The Moon Palace, same time "-should strike while we are weak." Queen Serenity proposed. The other royalty of the Allied Silver Millennium nodded their heads in agreement, except for Princess Margaret of Venus. "Margaret, is there something wrong?" The Crowned Venusian Millennium Princess tilted her head slightly, examining the viewing globe similar to the one at the Rose Palace's (Earth!). "How can we be sure that they didn't do this to us? Why can't we just talk to them? A diplomatic mission? They were hit pretty hard too. What if they didn't do this and-" ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ o}--+----- The Rose Palace, same time "-they are blaming us also?" asked Endymion. There was silence around the room as the possibility hung in the air. "Well, who else could have done this? The Star Kingdom? The Galaxia Kingdom? Or maybe another evil empire? And why would they bother with us? The Star Kingdom and Galaxia Kingdom are fighting their own war, and have washed their hands of us years ago. And all the others wish for either neutrality, or to also bring down the Allies. Why would they want to harm us? The only one to gain is the Moon and their pathetic alliance!" accused Princess Raine. Her temper was larger than her mother and father put together, and her spirit was stronger than both were. Endymion glared at her. "What if there is some one else we don't know about, who has their own motives?" Crimson eyes met midnight as the couple looked at each other, a battle of spirit obvious. "Well, there are these surrounding kingdoms we know nothing about. And that gigantic hole located at the west edge of the palace. We should find out everything before we point fingers." Jadeite strategically managed to calm down the two, and had proved a point to the others, who were now focused on the unknown. Ravi looked at Nephrite. "My spies can easily find that out. We can have results in the-" Beep... beep... beep... Everyone turned to map, where a yellow light was flashing yellow in time to the alarm in the corner of the screen. Ravi stared dumbly at the signal for a second, before pressing a couple buttons. The beeping and light turned off, and a screen behind the Sun King and Earth Queen fizzed to life. "What is that?" asked Queen Etana. "A comm system. We're receiving a message from one of the unknown kingdoms. The message claims the place is called 'Crystal Tokyo'." ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ o}--+----- The Moon Kingdom, same time "Crystal Tokyo? What's that?" asked Princess Letitia of Jupiter. Most of the people around the room seemed equally stunned at Queen Serenity's announcement. "Isn't a large city on Earth called Tokyo?" asked Princess Amelia of Mercury. "Quite right my dear, one of the most populated cities on Earth, on a large island called 'Japan'." Her mother, Queen Dalila nodded with her husband King Conrad. "Intentions?" asked Artemis. "They claim it to be 'diplomatic', although I don't see why they would want to," Princess Venus answered, looking at the signal. "Hold on. We know nothing of this mysterious kingdom, or the others for that matter. Besides, look at the composition of the planet. It's nearly two millennia older than our enemies' are, and more advanced than any kingdom I know of. Perhaps, another planet with the same named place?" King Brian of Jupiter analyzed. "Why don't we open a comm link and see?" asked Queen Melanie. Her magenta eyes were slightly red, showing her distress. The others nodded and smiled encouragingly. There had been a scare when the Plutian Royalty were refused by the Time Gate, the doors shut to their thoughts. It had taken awhile for Queen Melanie, King Jarus, and Princess Sibilia to reassure the others that they would be all right. The three had grown quieter, and any encouragement was given to them. "Good idea." London reached over to enter the command. A screen behind the Moon Royalty, who sat at the head of the table, fizzed to life. And all jaws fell to the ground as the figure, looking strangely like a cross between King Ravi and Prince Endymion appeared, in a lavender suit, with older versions of the princesses with the Moon and Earth generals in the background. Their surprise was mirrored by another screen, showing the other group in the Rose Palace. "Oh My God." "What is the meaning of this?" demanded King Ravi in the side screen. The adults managed to tear their eyes away from the 'Crystal Tokyo' people and stare at their enemies. "Who are you?" asked Prince Endymion. "I am King Endymion of Crystal Tokyo. Whom, might I ask, are you?" The lavender suited man seemed a bit shocked and angry at the question. "I am King Ravi of the Earth Kingdom-" "WHAT?" the older Neo-Queen Mars bellowed in the background. "What planet did you from? Crystal Tokyo is the Kingdom of Earth and Moon regions!" "Impossible! The Earth and Moon are at war! There is no alliance with those heartless bloody beasts! I am King London of the Moon!" "Excuse me, but what is going on?" Everyone in all three kingdoms turned their heads to see a new picture pop up on the screen. It was the same people of Crystal Tokyo, only younger looking. The girl who had spoke was blue-haired and petite, and would have looked prettier if she the haunted look and streaks of past tears didn't mar her face. They were sitting around what looked like a wooden box containing fire in a religious room of sorts. "Who are you-" "WHO are YOU?" the black-haired newcomer, who could be Prince Endymion of Earth's twin, asked, shocked. His hair was mussed and his eyes were red, the only sign of his devastation. "DADDY!" the little girl with pink hair jumped from his lap to come closer to the viewer. "I missed you so much! Can I go home now?" "What is this? Will someone explain what's going-" "This rake thinks he's-" "Don't speak to him like that!" "EXCUSE ME-" "What-" "HEY!" a loud scream came quieting everyone down. A very pregnant woman dressed in dark maroon and gold, with pink hair and blue highlights not being able to hide her glaring pink eyes. "ENOUGH!" Everyone stared at her. She took a deep breath before continuing. "I don't know who you all are, but what I do know is that we are in Tokyo, something really weird has happened, and there are now all these kingdoms surrounding the Earth we are currently on. NOW, we are in no condition to talk, since Sailor Moon is... gone, and everyone is really confused, and I JUST WANT SOME SLEEP BECAUSE I HAD A LONG FLIGHT ACROSS THE GALAXY! SO EVERYONE ONE NEEDS TO GO HOME AND WE CAN TALK LATER!! GOT IT!?" Everyone visibly gulped and nodded. Alan took his wife's hand gently and led her out of the room. "We can meet here, in Crystal Tokyo. Mercury, begin sending out coordinates," King Endymion quietly ordered. Then everyone signed off. All those who sat in the fire room of Raye's temple looked to the door their savior had just gone through with her husband. "Wow." Yavin whistled. "So what do we do now?" asked Seth. Everyone looked at each other. "You help Tokyo," came a voice from the doorway. Grandpa stood in the doorway, with Alan returning with an embarrassed Ann behind him. "The city seems to be in a frenzy. Also Serena's family and their friends are looking for Serena and some other missing people. You must tell them." "We already know," Irene said from her other side of the hallway. "But you are right. Tokyo needs all of you right now." The scouts and friends looked at each other around the room. The past few hours had been misery. Serena was dead. Their leader, best friend, princess, and hope had died with her. Now Tokyo was in chaos. Darien looked into the fire. It reminded him so much of Raye, and her strength inside and out. Serena and Raye had been the best of friends. She had told him that the thing she admired most about Raye was her endless strength of spirit, showing powerfully on the outside, but quietly fatal when you peered inside. His midnight eyes grew dark as he peered into the white-hot flames, until he finally saw the spirit that lurked in the first sparks of life. Filled with a new courage, he sent a prayer to whoever was listening. "Split into groups. One group goes to the police to tell them what is going on. Another to the people, so they stop panicking. Another will come with me to calm the rest of the earth. We need to do this quickly, before we lose control." "What do you want us to do?" asked a man Darien recognized as Andrew's father. He smiled at the families. "Watch after Reni, and if anyone comes, try and calm them down." "Could you also call my mum? She'll be upset." Amy blushed at the request. "Of course, dear," Irene smiled. "Then we better get going. The faster we do this, the faster we can meet with the others and straighten this out," Sophea said, her magenta eyes still holding a stoic pain. "Pluto Planet Power!" As the others transformed, Kenji came up to Darien. "Do you know where my daughter is? She and the others ran off-" "What others?" Darien asked, confused. "Molly, Andrew, Melvin, Rita, and Rita's cousins Belle, Kimi, and Gwenyth. They said there was a monster at the park they had to take care of." "But why would they go with Serena? Only Serena could have defeated the demon. The others don't have that kind of power." "They do. The girls are all Sailor Scouts, and the boys were called 'Guardians'. We saw them transform, it was so wicked cool!" Sammy interjected, smiling at the shocked reactions. "MELVIN, Molly, Andrew, and Rita are SAILOR SCOUTS? But who? Why didn't she say anything?" Lita's jaw was scraping the floor practically as everyone took in the news. "But how did they become Sailor Scouts? The time line never should have been like this! There was no possibility, their heart crystal is human..." Sophea's wide eyes turn to look into the fire, seeking the answers Raye could always see in meditation. "This is for another time. For your meeting with the other mysterious planets. Now you must worry about yours," Grandpa reminded them. Silence followed his wise words, and Darien shoved his growing questions about this news and cries of anguish over Serena out of his head. He needed to protect Tokyo first- then he would get answers and mourn. "Will all of you-" "Help? Of course. We'll go through the streets, try to calm down the people and get help to those who need it. You can concentrate on the rest of the world. We'll talk later," Kenji interrupted. The Sailors, Fiore, Alan, and Ann nodded, leaving almost immediately. Darien was almost out the door when Molly's mother stopped him. "Darien, do you know where they are?" Her eyes and voice shined with hope, and Darien's heart lurched. . *Molly and Serena were laughing, practically choking on their ice cream at some joke. Darien had watched them for a minute, enjoying her smile and laughter, before taking her away from Molly. Molly and Serena had hugged good-bye and promised to call each other that night. *"You two looked like you were having fun," Darien had commented, pulling her out of the cafe with his arm around her shoulders. *"We always do! Molly's my best and longest friend! We've been friends FOREVER! She and I naturally click, and we know each other's darkest secrets, so it's cool between us; we're kinda like sisters!" She giggled, and he smiled at her enthusiasm. *"Oh Usako, you're so beautiful, inside and out."* "We will wait to tell you." Darien's voice was strained slightly. He didn't want to tell them, not yet. He had to go, he was needed with the others. And the news would devastate them. His mind held a picture of Serena and Molly, that day he had seen them. They were sisters in every way that mattered, and he couldn't hurt Molly's mother for the very reason he couldn't bear to hurt Serena's mother. And with a rose and a flash, Tuxedo Mask was gone. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ o}--+----- Tokyo, a few hours later It had taken them several hours, but finally the world was listening to them. The Sailors had appeared before the police, assuring them that they would give any aid necessary, before appearing to the Japanese government. This had led to an emergency meeting of all the political leaders, via Sailor Teleport. It had taken a good hour to explain their story and about the other kingdoms, resulting in the complete telling of the Silver Millennium and their lives. They also revealed their civilian form and identities, which gained trust but doubt that a grade school girl, nine high-schoolers, two college students, three aliens, a talking tree and two talking cats could protect them and straighten out what was supposed to be an impossible situation. In the end, the Sailors won out. The world was at their mercy, as long as they protected them from the other kingdoms. The Sailors blew out a sigh of relief when they got back to Raye's temple. Everyone had calmed down, and with the Sailors now as Earth's official delegates, things would be running under control. Now came the hardest part, and the one thing they had been avoiding all day- Serena and her parents and friends. Alan felt terrible. True, it had just been a crush and he loved Ann and his baby so much, but Serena... she was different. She was one of the best friends he had ever known. She'd saved him and Ann from destroying the tree, and vice versa. She had taught them about love and truth. She had been with him when Ann was hurt. When he and Serena had gone into the mind of the tree, something had clicked between the three of them. Alan had never really talked to his wife about it, but somehow, he and Serena had been in complete mind link for a minute with the tree, learning about its history and life. And it was then he completely understood her love for Darien, and realized his love for Ann was almost equal to their eternal love. It was then they had truly become friends. But now she was gone. As they dragged their feet up the stairs to the temple, Alan looked at everyone. He wanted to comfort them all, especially Darien. He remembered how he felt when he thought Ann had died. If Darien was feeling anything like that, Alan knew they needed to talk. He didn't know Darien that well, but he had a feeling he would bottle up his anger and denial until he exploded in a rage. And with Darien's power, that could be devastating. Ann squeezed his hand startling Alan. She smiled at him. She knew what he was thinking about, and sadness darkened her carnation pink eyes. Serena had been one of the best and sweetest person she ever had the pleasure of meeting. Even when Ann had been nasty, Serena had never hurt Ann like Ann knew she had hurt Serena. A small bit of guilt had always been in her heart, as well as jealousy, but Ann shoved that aside. Serena would never have gone after Alan. And she never would... Ann wanted to scream. Why couldn't they have gone faster, come earlier? Serena didn't deserve this. If anything, Ann deserved it after her behavior before Serena saved them. But Serena? Why would fate take away the universe's savior, its one source of good and light? Ann noticed how everyone was looking darker, sadder, and closed off. Even Fiore had his head hanging, with the tree drooping in a dark shadow. It was as if without Serena, there was no light to shine on them, to make them happy. "How did things go?" asked Mrs. Wellington. Ann recognized her from seeing her and Andrew at the arcade, when she was spying on Darien. The woman had always given her funny looks, as if she knew Ann wasn't for real. Ann had been nervous, but now she only felt comfort. And misery. "Everything is under control. We only have to go to Crystal Tokyo now and discuss this with the others. Maybe we can figure out what's going on." Darien's voice was stoic, showing nothing. Venus and Mars looked at him. Venus was attuned to emotion, and of the group, Mars knew him the best. They both realized that this next hour would be their toughest. There was nothing they could do to keep their minds off her now. And Darien wouldn't grieve. The two knew in both their hearts that they had to do something. Alex sighed as she detransformed from Uranus to civilian form. She looked around at the growing group and spotted Reni. "Hey squirt. Were ya good for them?" she gave a small grin. Reni grinned back. "Yeah, I was. What's going on? Can I go see my daddy now?" Everyone snapped to attention with that request. Darien walked over and kneeled in front of Reni. "Why don't we take a nap first? We're all really tired, and we want to be in top shape to meet with your daddy and his friends. Okay?" She nodded and smiled. "Let's go Mamo-chan! We can take the- what's wrong Mamo- chan?" Darien had frozen at the name. Mamo-chan. Usako. He closed his eyes, forcing himself to breathe. He mustered up a tight smile and miraculously kept his voice from cracking as he told her, "Why don't you go lay down now? I have to talk with your aunt and uncle for awhile." She nodded. "All right Mamo-chan." And she skipped back into the temple, Luna-P right behind her. "What happened to my daughter." A male voice sliced the air with its frigidity. The silent command was spoken after a minute of stony silence, everyone's eyes on Darien, who had not moved his gaze from the door Reni left through. It was a statement, not a question. But it demanded an answer. "We didn't know she was in trouble until it was too late. The bond I share with her that let's me know when she is in trouble didn't alarm me. We all felt our bond of power with her break. By the time we got to where she had been, all we found was her blood and a sword, lying in the disaster area in the park. We... didn't find any trace of her, just the blood..." "Our bodies are not like others," Amy broke in with her voice barely above a whisper. "When those of great power die, their body reverts to a "magic dust". There wouldn't be a body if she..." Silence overtook the group, until Irene could no longer bare the pain in her heart. With a loud sob, she turned into her husband, her cries racking her body as tears fell in torrents. Kenji put his arm around her, closing his eyes and squeezing her tight as tears fell from his eyes. Sammy's eyes were large as he fully understood what the others were saying. He bowed his head, then stood by his parents, a few tears crawling down his face as he embraced his parents. Mrs. Baker stepped forward, putting one hand on her best friend's shaking back. "And of the others?" Amy turned her folded head away, as if by not looking at Serena's family, she wouldn't feel the pain either. "I found some unknown blood around Serena. I didn't scan it, but it was most likely... and if they were also scouts..." "No..." Mrs. Wellington gasped, turning into her husband. Mr. Tiger clutched his silently crying wife in the same manner Kenji was, also putting an arm around Mrs. Baker. Together, the four broken families came together in their tears, silently crying out for their children's return. Venus couldn't help it. She hated locking her emotions in. Her sobs were muffled by her hands and golden hair falling around her head like a veil as she leaned against the wall by the stairs for support. Amy broke next, followed by Ann, Ana, Lita, Alan, the Starlights, Mira, Alex, Sophea, Raye, held by her Grandpa, and finally Fiore. The courtyard was full of weeping people, crying for the lost souls of the children they loved. The children they believed they could never see or be with again. Darien was the only one not crying. He was reliving his past. His family gone. Swearing never to cry again. And he hadn't. Not in the face of death. Not when he found her again. Not when he had the nightmares. Not even when he had broken up with her to protect her. He refused to cry. But he was closer than he ever had been before now. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ o}--+---- Crystal Tokyo, June 6, 1998 It had taken two days for everyone to calm down and set everything back in order. The three groups of people finally decided it was the time to talk. Prince Kenji coolly watched the portal room. He wasn't sure how to handle all this, but things had been working out so far. Now they would find answers to their questions. And boy, did he want some answers. He and his guards had spent most of the morning getting work crews up to repair the extensive damage, and he was tired of the destruction. Now all he wanted to do was understand what he should really be doing, and perhaps understand who his enemy was. The anger he felt towards whatever had done this was building, but he refused to show it. So here he was, a mask of serenity on his face, awaiting for their guests to arrive so he could lead them to the conference room. "Hey Ken, what's up?" Kevin walked up, slapping him on the back. Ken looked at his friend, glaring slightly. "Kev, what are you doing?" Kevin was one of his closest confidants, and as head of his generals, Kevin was extremely loyal. The firstborn of his father's guard and mother's guard, his sister was also Reni's guard's leader. And it appeared Kevin's Venusian blood was stronger today. "Not as much as you are right now. Do you remember what they looked like? That was weird. I could swear they looked like younger versions of our parents. Like our parents when they were our age. Weird, huh?" Kevin's blue eyes sparkled, his blond hair falling in his eyes. Ken gave a small smile back. "Yeah. And then the others, who looked like older versions of our parents-" "They looked like our grandparents! This is going to be one long day, bro." "Yeah. Where are our parents?" "My dad went to go find yours. My mom is somewhere with the other Sailors and our sisters, insisting they talk before we meet with the others. I think the other generals are taking care of some last minute business in the city. Dunno." "Kevin, your father is King Kunzite, the captain of the Inner Generals. He is suppose to know where everyone is. Haven't you picked that up yet?" "Kenji, your father is King Endymion, our supreme commander and leader. He is suppose to know where everyone is and what everyone is doing, and even more. Haven't you picked that up yet?" They both stared at each other for a couple seconds before grinning. "Are we interrupting something?" The boys turned to the soft yet regal voice that came from the portal. A woman, a head shorter than them, with silvery gray eyes and silver hair with a bluish tint stood in a beautiful tight silk ball gown, with a pressed white velvet bow with a large golden crescent moon in the center. Her hair was in two 'meatballs' with diamonds around them, matching the diamond necklace and ring on her wedding finger. Her fair skin seemed to emit a silver haze, taking their breath away. Both of the boys had been at the conference when first contact was made, but now, up close and personal, Kenji fell in a state of shock. His mind was locked into flashback mode. *Neo-Prince Kenji sat in his father's lap in King Endymion's private room. His father was going through some photos of when he and the other adults were younger. All the adults and kids were draped around the room in various places and positions. *"Daddy, who's that?" the five-year-old prince had asked as they came to a photo he hadn't seen before. A beautiful girl, with flowing golden hair darker than Neo-Queen Venus' hair, up in the royal moon style, with deep blue eyes sat on a stone bench, hands supporting her as she leaned towards the camera to wink. A gorgeous smile played on her red lips; her attire was a simple velvet pink v-neck shirt and a short light blue skirt, with lacy white socks and black suede shoes. On the socks and skirt were cute bunny faces. Life seemed to shine around her, and the beautiful blue eyes held back nothing, revealing more love than Kenji thought a person could hold. *His twin sister looked at the picture. "Oh wow, she's a pretty lady!" *"Let me see!" cried Neo-Princess Honor of Uranus. *"Who is she?" asked Neo-Prince Jared of Mars. *Neo-Prince Samuel waddled over to his father and climbed over Kenji to see the picture. He broke into a big baby grin. "Mama!" *The kids seemed to gasp around the room. "No way! Your mom is hot Ken!" Jared said, looking at the picture. *Everyone had laughed as Neo-Queen Raye went wild over her son's comment and yelled at her husband for giving his son that trait.* Now, this woman standing before him... she looked just like that girl, only with different colored hair and a few worry lines around her face. That and the aura was different- while every picture of his mother radiated love, this woman held less love and more authority and wisdom. A man came up behind her and cleared his throat, putting his arm around her shoulders. It was obvious they were a couple, and from the wedding bands on their hands he decided married was the more appropriate word. The couple looked to be a little older than his father and Neo-Queen Pluto's age. Kevin realized they were staring at the woman, whose amazing resemblance to Neo- Queen Serenity had caused them to turn into blushing school boys, and snapped out if it, elbowing his prince in the side. A large group of people, some their age and others the age of the couple, now stood around the room. The large group seemed divided, with the majority on the right side. A few glares were tossed back and forth, but no one made a move to act on the obvious thoughts. Another large flash and a smaller group appeared. They looked the same age as Kenji and Kevin, with a slightly older guy. And when you put the two groups of the younger generation together, you could not tell them apart aside from their clothing. The two looked in wonder. How the twin groups seemed to look exactly like their parents, and the older generation seemed as if they could be related. A fact that startled him. Kevin tore out of his thoughts before elbowing his friend once more. "Um, I'm am Neo-Prince Kenji of Crystal Tokyo and the Allied Planets. This is my first commander, General Kevin, Neo-Prince Kevin of Venus." Ken managed a charming smile, only slightly stuttering at the beginning, and ending with a low bow. Kevin imitated the bow before turning to the eight men who had suddenly appeared behind him. "These are my comrades- second commander, General Jared, Neo-Prince of Mars; third commander, General Neil, Neo-Prince of Jupiter; fourth commander, General Zacheriah, Neo- Prince of Mercury." Kevin watched each of his friends bow low as he announced them, then stepped back, satisfied with their performance. A slightly younger man stepped forward. "I am Neo-Prince Samuel of Crystal Tokyo and the Allied Planets. My first commander, General Donal, Neo-Prince of Uranus; second commander, General Murray, Neo-Prince Neptune; third commander, General Jarus, Neo-Prince Pluto; fourth commander, General Louis, Neo-Prince Saturn." Each man stepped forward. The four kings of the outer planets stared at the boys. Each one that hailed from their planet had their name! What was this, the past? King Donal of Uranus sized up the general with his name and planet. Tall, blonde hair and more-green-than-hazel eyes, similar to his daughter, Honor. the King mused. Donal never allowed anything but power show on his face, keeping his stance rigid and protective of his queen and family. He smiled inwardly over his daughter's and wife's similar stance, showing true to the name of Uranus. "If you will follow all of us, please, we will show you all to the conference room." "Where is this Neo-King Endymion?" the question came out as a harsh command from King Ravi, and Kenji stiffened cordially in response, his answer curt with warning. "Waiting." ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Looks like I finally found a good place to stop! Anyways, sorry again for the time it took me to get this out. But now, I want to thank Mercury589, who has been egging me on with e-mails. And I wish to give a sound congratulations to Joe with his new chapter of Sailor Moon Silver, a REALLY good story. And Auston's latest edition to hers and Jade's "The Golden General". Congrats is also given to Princess Serenity, for finishing her site! Go to www.meatballhead.simplenet.com, her site is really COOL! So I suppose you want a little info? I had hoped to bring in the Generals and Prince Diamond and co. but I've decided to wait on that one. But I WILL bring them in. And they WILL have a role. I am going to place names on my web page later on, and will no longer be listing them here (except when I really feel like it is necessary). Questions, comments, and ideas are all acceptable!