Normally sleep should be mandatory for everyone. Yet not everyone who wasn't 'normal', even for the ageless goddess of time. And every so often, she would get memories of the past or the future. They were images that moved quick inside her head, and it was hard to make them out.
The dark green haired woman known as Setsuna Meioh lie in bed, turning her body and squint her eyes. 'I know I have guarded the gates of time for over a thousand years, but it's been so long of what my early years were like,' she thought. Letting out a breath, she tried to focus her mind on the images.
Within her own mind, the dark green haired woman was clad in a sailor fuku, one that was Sailor Pluto. It was her duty to guard the gates of time, an assignment given to her by Queen Serenity. No outside forces were allowed, even if they claimed to be allies. However, there were exceptions but only to members of the royal family.
As Pluto walked around, she kept her guard up with her Garnet Staff by her side. The surroundings were covered by a fog, and within that fog were voices. Ones that sounded raspy.
Obviously these were voices that came from the past. Her past to be more precise, but it had been so long. Those memories were blurred and hard to make out sometimes. She only remembered her time at the gates, which were filled were loneliness back then. And right now, she was alone in this fog.
"…Pluto…"
Garnet eyes turned to where the voice came from, hard to "Who's there?" She spoke up, keeping her guard up. The whispers didn't help, making it hard to pin point her target.
"Setsuna…"
The whispers continued to grow in number, as the guardian of time continued to move around. "Show yourself!" She demanded, refusing to yield in the face of danger.
"Princess Setsuna of Pluto!"
The voice spoke loudly, making it through the whispers of the fog. If anything, it was so sharp and powerful, that the whispers in the fog were silenced. A figure was formed, mostly in lavenders and silvers, but it was a form that was blurred before the time guardian.
"Pluto…It's been too long," The figure from the fog spoke, clearly in a feminine voice that seemed to be relaxed and calm.
Sensing the change in atmosphere, the dark green haired woman looked at the figure within the fog. "How do you know my name?" She asked, keeping her staff close to her. "Are you someone from my past?"
"You could say that…In fact, we were senshi in arms once."
"Senshi in arms…" Pluto spoke those words softly. She wanted to know more, but sensing the atmosphere change, she noticed the fog turning to a smoky black. "What is happening?" She asked.
The figure from the fog sensed the danger as well, not having much time. "There is a threat coming to your planet," She answered, the tone in her voice changing to utmost serious now.
A threat was coming to Earth? It didn't surprise her, but she needed to know more. "Who is the enemy? Is it a threat from beyond the galaxy?"
"They come from within the Outer Solar System…From a planet that was forgotten for many years..."
It sounded familiar. The fact that there was another planet, within the Outer Solar System…Another thought occurred inside Pluto's mind. "Tell me, does this forgotten planet have a Guardian?"
Before she could get her answer, the buzzer from her alarm clock went off. The dark green haired woman shot up, breathing heavy. 'That presence…was it real or…something more?' She wondered, sighing deeply. She couldn't ignore this. If this was a new enemy on the horizon, she would need to investigate this. Standing up, Setsuna walked over to her closet and picked out a silky crimson robe to wear, and tied the knot to cover her body.
Walking downstairs, she made her way into the kitchen of the Outer Senshi household. Upon entering, her garnet eyes shifted over to an eighteen-year old girl with black-purple hair reading a medical book. The other was an aquamarine haired woman, who was Setsuna's house mate. "You're certainly up early reading Hotaru-chan," Setsuna spoke, expressing a warm smile upon her adoptive daughter.
Dark violet eyes shifted over to her adoptive mother, nodding her head. "Is something wrong Setsuna-mama?" She asked.
Nothing got past Hotaru. Setsuna's smile faded, nodding her head reluctantly. "Yes… It is best that we wait for Haruka to join us." She answered, her gaze shifting over to Michiru. "I take it your Talisman picked up something as well?"
"Yes… I looked within it and sensed a great presence on Earth," Michiru explained, looking up at the older woman.
It had been so long. Ten years to be precise. After the defeat of Galaxia, everyone from the Inner and Outer Senshi found peace. Their friends had not only graduated from high school, but they went to college and started their own careers.
With their thought process being interrupted, a woman with short-cropped sandy blonde hair stepped in, letting out a sharp breath. Teal eyes focused on not just her adoptive family, but fellow Outer Senshi. "I felt a strong change in the winds," She informed them, and her gaze shifted over to Michiru. "We haven't felt something like this in awhile."
Michiru nodded her head, seeing Haruka walk up to her. "I know we should inform the others love, but… it's something else as well," She looked up at the tall woman, and then slowly shifted her gaze to Setsuna.
"The presence you mentioned here on Earth… it maybe another senshi," Setsuna said, hoping this wouldn't surprise her family, but certainly have them raising questions "I still retain all of my memories of the Silver Millennium, but some remain foggy… The presence within my mind, told me that an enemy from our section of the galaxy was coming here to Earth. They are from a forgotten planet that once inhabited the Outer Solar System."
Haruka looked at Setsuna, giving her a skeptical look. "Are you sure?" She asked, not knowing if this was true. It wasn't that she doubted Setsuna. The older woman did keep to herself, but she only shared knowledge of what she did know. "I don't recall another planet within our solar system…"
Michiru took Haruka's hand, knowing her partner could get very tense in discussions similar to this. "There are holes and memories we all haven't gotten back yet," She pointed out, ocean blue eyes looking up at the air guardian.
"But if this planet did exist, why wasn't its Guardian reincarnated along with the rest of us?" Hotaru asked, thinking this should be addressed. "And if so, shouldn't the planet this enemy came from be activated as well?"
The others looked at Hotaru, thinking these were all valid questions. In order for a senshi's powers to be awakened, the planet that they were assigned to guard should be alive. The planet this mystery senshi was from, was it still alive?
"Those are very good points Hotaru-chan," Setsuna agreed on her daughter's questions, but feeling this wasn't the time or place for it. There were other engagements to attend to. "But for now, I believe we should all get ready for an important day."
Hotaru nodded her head, smiling in Haruka and Michiru's direction. "Setsuna-mama does make a good point." She said, her eyes looking in the blonde tomboy's direction now. "Even you should be prepared for this papa."
Haruka, in all her seriousness, felt a blush creep in. "Hey, I wouldn't forget koneko-chan's birthday!" She exclaimed in mock defense, but looked at Michiru. "After all, she's important to all of us."
"Ah, but you seem to hold her close to your heart Ruka," Michiru teased her, rubbing the hand that she held and eyed the ring on the racecar driver's ring finger on the left hand. "She is our princess, but don't forget whom else you're committed to as well."
Haruka laughed lightly, taking the hand Michiru held and brought it close to her chest. "Hey now, I still remember our vows… I'll always be yours and you being mine," She said, slowly raising Michiru's hand to her lips and kissed it. No one else captured her heart such as the mermaid-like woman right in front of her.
"Flatterer," Michiru giggled, placing a hand on Haruka's cheek. "Now go shower. I'll be making breakfast and after that, we should go to the park where everyone else will be there."
Haruka nodded, reluctantly leaving her lover's side. Before she made her way to the stairs, her gaze shifted to Setsuna. "After this, we should look into this manner before it comes to Earth," She whispered.
Setsuna couldn't agree more. Haruka made a point about wanting to look into this mystery. The time senshi leaned against the refrigerator, deep in thought. If this supposed mystery senshi was on Earth, was she the one who was connected to the figure in the fog? Or was it the mystery senshi's past self that came to warn her? And the threat that was coming to Earth attracted to this senshi as well?
…
Elsewhere within a hotel in the city of Tokyo, someone else was having an epidemic of their own. Bed sheets covered the person's body, enjoying the warmth that came from them. A young girl, who was only eighteen years of age, was sound asleep. Yet her expression changed, groaning as she felt something within her mind interrupted her peaceful slumber.
Within the mindscape, the young brunette was dressed in her night clothes. As she walked around, she noticed it was her hometown of Philadelphia, but the streets were covered in fog.
"If this is the part where I say 'I guess we aren't in Kansas anymore', I am not going to be surprised," She said in a dry way, as her lavender eyes wandered around her surroundings. 'I've had dreams that mostly involved clowns or…whatever…In my case, this is totally new.'
As the brunette continued to walk around, she heard a sound and quickly whipped around.
"Okay, whoever's in my…dream…Show yourself and be prepared for an ass kicking," She warned, getting into a stance.
"You would do well to respect those of rank…princess."
The brunette's body stiffened, not recognizing the voice. It was clearly a man's voice from what she gathered. And why did he call her princess?
"The only people I show respect to are to those I know," She shot back, trying to pinpoint where the sound of the voice came from. "Just who are you anyway?"
The male voice chuckled, appearing before her in a suit of silver armor with white and copper markings. His face was covered in a mask, one with a mouth piece markings on it a copper colored visor, tail coat behind the waist, and a hood to complete the look. Wielding a long board sword in hand, the armored figure walked towards her.
"Don't worry I'll be coming to you soon…Very soon," He reassured her. "Princess Destiny!"
"Whoa!" The brunette's body shot up, a surprised look on her face. "I have to stop watching late night marathons of the Arrow series… The dude looked way too similar to Deathstroke."
Hearing a groan, the brunette looked down to see a male German Shepherd covering his ears with his paws. "Dallas, what I have told you about mentioning superhero related stuff around me?" The canine spoke up, keeping his eyes closed. "It's too early to deal with your humor."
"Or in this case, my brand of humor," The girl called Dallas grinned, getting up and squatted down, poking her guardian's forehead. "Come on Koda, loosen up a little. We're on vacation."
Koda opened one eye, the left one with the gold eye with a scar mark across it was looking up at Dallas. "You're on vacation," He corrected her, slowly rising and stretched his body. "I'm along for the ride to make sure you don't back out on it," He explained, looking up at her. "And being here will do you some good."
Dallas sighed, nodding her head in defeat. Walking over to the window, she looked down at the city. She always wanted to visit Japan, but not like this. There were a lot of things on her mind, such as her neighborhood in Philadelphia and certain events before that. Someone had to look out for the people, but it got harder everyday trying to maintain the peace.
"Before I woke up, there was someone wearing armor and carried a long sword," The brunette began to talk letting Koda know about what she woke up from.
Koda didn't say anything, looking at his mistress and friend at this sudden news. Still, he had a guess of what it could be, but he didn't know for sure. The canine had some holes in his memory, and some were blurry. All he had knowledge on was that he had a mission to guide the eighteen-year old American in the fight against evil. Not the type of evil that was in America though.
"Do you know what he said?" The canine asked.
"All he said was that he was coming very soon, and called me Princess Destiny," Dallas answered, recollecting the important details of this dream or vision. "I mean, it's just a bad dream. Me, a princess, am I right?"
"Princess Destiny," Koda mumbled, turning his head away and was thinking about what she said. The name sounded familiar, but nothing popped up in his name. "…Yeah, it's probably just a bad dream."
Something within Dallas was told other wise, as she looked at Koda with an arched eyebrow. "You think it's more than just a dream, don't you?"
"The dream part we can worry about later, it's the name that's you mentioned that's got me thinking about now," Koda sighed, looking Dallas with a serious expression on his face. "There are some things I still don't know, but I do know is that you have this power that lies within the stars of the solar system."
"And it's my responsibility to wield this power for justice," Dallas took a deep breath, lavender eyes looking down at the floor.
Her curiosity of why she was chosen to be a hero was still a mystery. Fighting 'evil' in physical combat was something only police officers and soldiers, who had trained and dedicated their lives to, should be the ones handling it. But no, fate had a different plan for Dallas that was both a blessing and a curse. In the back of her head, she felt like her powers for every day rescue missions and patrolling the streets seemed out of place. Yet she was content with using them to protect people from typical criminals that threatened innocent lives in Philadelphia.
Koda knew what Dallas was thinking. The young girl thought she had found her place in life as her neighborhood's 'resident superhero'. However, she was starting to wonder what her own future. He knew what she wanted to do, but even if she did find those answers, what was the next step going forward? It was best not to think too hard on it.
"Let's go outside," Koda suggested, feeling the urge to walk off the jet lag. "I've got an urge to walk off some energy after being cramped into that kettle." He added, using his dry wit to express his disdain for the situation. Not that he was complaining, but he hated being contained in one spot for such a long period of time.
"I take it someone wants his walkies?" Dallas quipped, covering her mouth to contain her laughs, which only formed into snickering.
Koda gave her a pointed look, mostly out of comical exaggeration, but he hated when someone used baby talk to him when he was present.
Dallas held her hands up defense. "I'm kidding!" She exclaimed, expressing an apologetic smile. "But you are right. I can't stay cooped up in this room all day… Let's find a place that serves breakfast, and head to the park."
"At long last, the fan girl is going to be among the locals," Koda said in playful tone, smirking at the petite brunette.
Dallas rolled her eyes, giving the sarcastic dog a noogie. Not that she was annoyed with him, but she took great pride in studying the culture. It was a very unique language to speak, and she found the sense of honor, unity, and passion to be strong. While she would always be a Philly girl by nature, her heart belonged to Japan and it was her dream to come here since she was a little kid.
"Ha ha, real cute," It was her turn to mumble something sarcastically in a dry way. "Let me just take a quick shower, get dressed, and we'll head out."
Koda nodded in understanding as he walked Dallas go to the bathroom. 'A man in armor with a long sword…I have a bad feeling about this.' He reasoned within his mind. Whoever the mystery man was, he certainly didn't fit the type to scream out 'supervillain'. 'If this is a new type of evil, we'll need to be on our guard.'
…
It was already eleven thirty at the park in Tokyo, with everyone there to help lend a hand with setting up brunch. Even though having brunch at a restaurant was fitting, but it was a nice day out. Even a certain blonde woman with her hair set up in two odango-styled buns with long pigtails enjoyed the sunshine.
"It's such a nice day," She said, wearing a white dress that stopped to her ankles, with flowers on it and a short sleeved jacket over it. Turning her attention to a man with short raven black hair, sapphire blue eyes focused on him. "Don't you think so Mamo-chan?"
The man known as Mamoru Chiba, who was helping one of her friends with setting up the plates on the benches, turned his attention to his wife. "Of course," He said with a good natured smile. "I'm glad it's nice out for your birthday Usako." He added, using one of the pet names he used for his wife
"Mamoru-san, don't get too distracted," A woman with long raven hair with purple highlights spoke up, setting down some plates. She lightly chided Mamoru in a friendly way.
"Yeah, I'll do my best not to," Mamoru said in good nature.
In one of the spots at the park, Setsuna was sitting at one of the benches lost in thought. Thinking about what happened in her mind, it certainly was an unknown phenomenon of someone reaching out to her thoughts while she slept. She contemplated whether this person in the fog was the real enemy, but she seemed to be genuine in wanting her help. Yet who was the enemy that was connected to her and the Outer Senshi' lives in the Silver Millennium?
"Penny for your thoughts Setsuna-san?"
Setsuna turned her head to see a familiar blue-haired woman. "I am just thinking about something," She answered as she kept her expression the same, but her eyes were warm.
Always formal and respectful with the Inner Senshi, she had gotten to know them better over the years. Feeling a kinship with Ami, the time guardian not only respected her intelligence, but also her kind and caring nature. If anything, she had taken a notice in the once shy genius' in maturing as a determined woman to help others as a doctor.
"Oh, what is it about?" She asked, wanting to at least lend an ear or a second opinion on anything the older guardian had on her mind. "Is it something important or… Just in general? If it's something time-related, I don't want to meddle in your duties."
Letting out a small chuckle, Setsuna shook her head. "It's okay Ami-chan," She reassured her, her features softened but kept her garnet eyes on her. "I'm… wondering how much of my past do I remember?"
"You mean during the Silver Millennium?" Ami inquired, earning a nod from Setsuna. "I see… Are your resurrections the cause of making you lose those memories?"
"No, I retain all of my memories, but much of my early life is a blur," The goddess of time explained, taking a deep breath. Yes, that part was true. As much as she was alone during her time guarding the gates, she was honored to have been chosen by Queen Serenity to take on such a responsibility. And now, she was among friends who were like family to her. A family she took a vow to protect until her last dying breath.
"If it helps, I've started to regain some of my own memories of the past life," Ami turned her attention to a certain brunette, who was busy cooking some food on the grill. She formed a genuine smile. "Mako-chan and I found out that the Jupiter and Mercury in the past life were lovers… I knew she and I always felt a strong bond already, but it's nice to know that love, even during the Silver Millennium, can transition into a thousand years."
"Similar to our future king and queen," Setsuna knew this wasn't common knowledge, but it was fun to point out. "I suppose love transcends, whether in the Silver Millennium or any period of time."
Ami would've inquired more about Setsuna's answer, believing in facts first. Yet she acknowledged that her own relationship with Makoto was strong, no matter what time period or year they were in. "What about you Setsuna-san?" The blue-haired woman asked the fashion designer. "I know you were assigned to guard the gates from intruders, but-"
"Was I in love with anyone?" Setsuna already knew the answer to Ami's question. Again, it made her reflect on her own memories. Something inside her told Setsuna that she may have been in love once, but she didn't know the person's appearance or the name. "I may have at one point... but I find the love of my family and my fellow senshi to be rewarding enough."
Frowning upon hearing that answer, the young woman placed her hand on Setsuna's. "You're always important to everyone," Ami said with reassurance, kindness showing within her own blue eyes.
Setsuna was about to respond, but she felt something that was close by. "How about we join the others?" Setsuna suggested, standing up and looked at Ami with a polite smile.
Ami didn't have to answer, as she followed behind Setsuna. She could probably check on Makoto, to see if the food was ready and help her out.
Walking towards Haruka and Michiru, who accused themselves from helping out with the plates, the senshi of time looked at her house mates. "Did you feel that?" She asked.
"Yes, I felt a slight change in the wind," Haruka answered, confirming Setsuna's suspicion.
"I think we should be on guard… We need to make sure our princess enjoys her birthday," Michiru said, keeping a calm demeanor. For some reason, the oceans' vibes were a lot rougher than usual. The mermaid-like woman became concerned, wondering if the person Setsuna mentioned was dangerous.
Haruka turned to look at her wife, sensing her demeanor was calm. "Is everything okay Michi?" She asked as her teal eyes showed concern for the petite violinist.
"I'm fine Haruka… I'm preparing myself for the task at hand," Michiru reassured her partner, placing a hand on the tall blonde's forearm and smiled. "And I want to make sure that the threat we face, should know not to lay a hand on not just our dear friends, but you as well."
The sandy blonde woman chuckled, knowing of Michiru's fierce devotion to not just protect their princess, but also protecting her as well. It was something no enemy should mess around with. "Than I hate to be the poor bastard who lays a finger on me," She said, touching the soft hand that was on her arm. "Because I'm sure the enemy will be dead in a heart beat."
…
Within the same park, Dallas was walking off the breakfast she had this morning. Thankfully the restaurant had an outdoor section, being able to enjoy her meal in the nice weather and snuck some food for Koda to eat. As the brunette continued to walk, she enjoyed the scenery before her.
'Those cherry blossoms look lovely,' she thought, a smile creeping up on her lips.
"This park is rather beautiful."
Interrupted from her thoughts, she looked down at the German Shepherd and grinned. "Well, it helps that the trees here are beautiful." She said, stopping over a bridge and looked at the water.
Upon looking at her 5'4" frame in the reflection of the water, she wore gray hooded zip-up jacket with long sleeves, a red and black checkered flannel shirt, baggy denim blue jeans with large pockets, black fingerless gloves, a white and black baseball cap she wore backwards on her head, a pair of designer shades, and stylish black sneakers with red and silver markings.
Koda sensed that his student stopped, seeing her look down at the river. 'She looks happy…It certainly helps that her mind isn't focused on any upcoming crimes or danger,' He inwardly smiled. His head turned, sensing more than one strong energy signature within the park. 'Funny, I don't remember anything about Japan having any powerful super beings…Only time I sense it is when someone powerful is nearby.'
"Come on, let's go find a bench to sit on," Dallas suggested, having her sketchbook in her other hand. "I want to draw the cherry blossoms while we're still here."
If Koda had shoulders, he would shrug. He didn't respond as he walked by his mistress' side. The more he walked the energy he felt from before get stronger. The feeling certainly made him put up a strong emotional guard, wondering if an enemy was stalking them. Shifting his gaze, he looked at a group of women.
The energy they emitted was certainly strong. However, from what he observed they looked like they were happy. It would certainly be a good idea for his student to make some friends. At least, the ones that seemed to be friendly.
"You know, you should make some friends while you're on vacation."
Dallas looked down at Koda, raising an eyebrow. "I don't think we'd be making friends that fast," She pointed out, sighing a bit. "Not that the idea is bad but… You know how the Japanese are with foreigners, and they have every right to be. I'd just be invading their… way of life."
"I highly doubt it'll be that bad," Koda said in a deadpan tone. This was another reason why his mistress needed to get away from Philadelphia. With the way Dallas' neighborhood was getting, it started to become divided in terms of its citizens not wanting to change its view on politics, welcoming immigrants into the city, racism, and corruption. "Besides, imagine the friendships you'd be making, and the bonds you would forge together. Those are important."
'That is true, the bonds that you share with people are important,' Dallas thought, suddenly thinking about her loved ones back home. 'It makes me think about Philly... It's not fair that I'm the one who gets to enjoy the trip. But than again, who's going to keep an eye on my neighborhood.'
Koda knew Dallas was thinking about her loved ones now. He had to get Dallas out of her rut before she got any ideas to go back to her neighborhood. Eyeing her sketchbook, he lunged for it and grabbed it with his mouth. If she wasn't going to go to those people, he might as well make her go to them.
Dallas felt her sketchbook leave her hand, gaping as her canine companion did the unexpected. "Koda," She growled in annoyance, mostly in a comedic way. "Come back here!"
Koda sprinted as he made his way to the group of women.
Near that location, Usagi helped set up the utensils and napkins while she hummed. "So, Haruka-san, when is your next race?" She asked, mostly out of innocence.
Haruka looked up at her future Queen with her trademark smile. "It'll be sometime in September… Right now, Michiru and I are just focusing on Hotaru's-" Before she could answer, she yelped as she felt something brush up against her legs. "What the hell was that?!"
Michiru looked at her partner's surprised reaction, seeing what caused it. "Haruka, calm down," She instructed her to not overreact, ocean blue eyes motioning to the canine that caused her to jump in surprise. "It's just a dog."
The sandy haired racecar driver shook her head. She was embarrassed. For a second there, she thought it was some pervert.
Usagi's attention shifted over to see the German Shepherd that walked in her direction. "Why hello there," She said, squatting to the dog's eye level and offered her hand. "Who might you be?"
"Usa…" Mamoru was about to speak up, telling his wife to be careful. However, he sweat dropped and saw the canine sniff her hand. "I was going to say be careful, but you have a way with animals."
Koda didn't hesitate to sniff her hand, dropping the sketchbook and licked it. He allowed the blonde odango-haired woman to pet him. However, he started to sense a powerful vibe from her. 'That energy emitting from her…It's comforting,' He noted, and for some reason he started to relax around her.
Michiru walked over to where Usagi was, kneeing down and picked up the sketchbook. She wasn't a nosy person, but she looked at the initials on it and they looked like it was written in American.
"Koda!"
Usagi slowly stood up and looked to see where the voice came from. Her sapphire eyes focused on the young brunette, who seemed to be speak English rather fluently. Also taking in the appearance, the clothes looked slightly big on her frame and it made her look very young. Was this her dog?
Dallas walked over to where her guardian was, seeing the group of people. She placed a hand over her face, groaning in embarrassment. Her guardian picked a fine time to put her in an awkward situation. "Gomen nasai," She apologized in Japanese, bowing as a sign of respect. "I hope you can forgive my dog… He doesn't go off on his own like that. If he's disturbed you and your friends, I'll pay for any damages."
Haruka felt a sudden shift in the air, teal eyes landing on someone that was new to her. 'That energy, it couldn't be,' She suddenly turned her gaze over to Michiru, making eye contact with her
Michiru shifted her gaze to where her lover's eyes were. She could sense the ocean's waves getting rougher by the passing second.
Setsuna felt the same energy as Haruka and Michiru, turning her gaze over to see the new girl before her. Garnet eyes focused intently on her. 'This energy…It's the same one Michiru mentioned. However…I feel like I've been around it before…Back in the Silver Millennium,' she thought, her gaze shifting over to Haruka. "I will approach her," She said, her words directed at Haruka.
Haruka looked at Setsuna. She had learned to pick up small cues from her housemate, and this was one of them.
Michiru handed Setsuna the sketchbook, thinking this would be the best way to see how this girl interacted with one of them.
Usagi saw how the young girl spoke to her and apologized, causing her to smile. "Its okay, your dog came up to me. He's very friendly," She said, her sapphire eyes meeting with the lavender ones that belonged to the girl. "I'm Tsukino-Chiba Usagi."
Before Dallas could introduce herself, she felt very strong vibrations go off within her head. As she turned her head, she saw that there was a tall woman with dark green hair approach Usagi's side. For some reason, the young girl instantly seemed to be lost in those garnet eyes. She was mysterious that's for sure. However, she felt calm around her and somewhere in the back of her mind it felt like she knew her.
"I take it this is yours?" Setsuna inquired, showing the brunette the sketchbook in her hand.
Dallas sighed with relief, taking the sketchbook from the older woman and looked at her. "Thank you… I'm Dallas Mercer." She introduced herself.
"Meioh Setsuna, nice to meet you," Setsuna slowly dipped her head and showed a small smile, her garnet eyes keeping her gaze on brunette. When she heard her speak, it immediately made her think of the being from the fog had a similar voice to her's. Still, were they one and the same?
Dallas smiled back, feeling a sense of comfort and ease kick in. 'I don't know who she is but…I feel something from her,' she thought, sensing the strong vibrations from this woman. Even if she did just meet her, she felt a strong sense of compassion similar to a parent. Suddenly, she had a mental image of the dark green haired woman kick in, but it was for a brief second. 'What was that?'
Koda sensed the energy from Setsuna, forcing him to stay by Dallas side. There was something not normal about this woman. Unlike the energy emitting from Usagi, that was pure and full of warmth, Setsuna's power seemed to be mysterious and unknown. It was something that didn't sit well with the canine guardian.
"Usagi, what's taking you so long?" A familiar voice chastised from a distance.
Dallas noticed five other people and two cats walked up behind the blonde woman.
"Ah, let me introduce you to my friends," Usagi said, gesturing to the other girls. "These are my good friends. They are a little too energetic but they bear you no ill will."
"Is that how you introduce your friends, Usagi?" Rei reproved, annoyed. When she turned to Dallas, however, her annoyance instantly flipped to cheeriness. "I'm Hino Rei, nice meeting you."
Dallas nodded, impressed with how fast her manner changed. The little scolding Rei gave the blonde just now reminded Dallas of her friend. Remembering her, Dallas couldn't help but be disheartened.
'She used to scold me too,' Dallas mused. 'Always telling me to be careful or how to treat people…I wish she was here.'
She then pushed the thought aside as quick as it came. Faltering in front of people she'd just gotten acquainted wasn't her preference.
Another blonde, who was all smiles, stepped into her view. "Hi! Nice to meet you, I'm Aino Minako."
This young woman's aura was different from that of the previous. Hers wasn't unfeigned innocence, but overflowing confidence. 'Trait of a leader,' Dallas noted, smiling in response.
The blonde extended her hand towards Dallas. The brunette raised her brow in bemusement, her eyes travelled back and forth between the girl's face and her hand.
Minako laughed. "Doesn't foreigner shake people's hand when they first meet?"
"Ah, that," Dallas smiled in recognition. She took her hand and shook it, while explaining, "I understand Japanese don't like to breach personal space. I'm surprised you would know this."
"I used to spend time in London," Minako shrugged.
Came next was a tall brunette, whom Dallas noticed was taller than her by a few centimeters. "My name's Kino Makoto, nice to meet you."
Though her manner was civil, the woman called Makoto kept one of her hands perched on her hips, and her broad shoulders controlled. There was a tangible distance emanating from the brunette—she appeared as if ready for risky possibilities.
'Strong build, and a good stance,' Dallas perceived. 'She seems like a capable warrior.' A feeling of respect for Makoto arose from within her, although she had no idea why.
The last one to introduce her self was a blue-haired girl, whose eyes showed kindness before her expression did. "A pleasure to meet you, my name is Mizuno Ami." The girl gave a polite bow.
After everyone's introduction was over, Dallas replied, "Dallas Mercer, likewise," Lavender orbs landed on the only man in the group. "I'm sorry I didn't catch your name?"
"I'm Chiba Mamoru," The dark-haired man's arm enveloped Usagi's shoulders. "I'm her husband."
It was only for a moment, but she saw how the blonde in his arms seemed to beamed with pleasure when he declared that.
Rei gave her a scrutinizing glance. "You're not from around here, are you?"
"I'm from America."
"Your Japanese is so good," Usagi gushed. "You sound like you grew up here."
Dallas chuckled at the enthusiasm. "I study Japanese."
Minako's face slightly fell. "Ah… you'd be good friends with Ami-chan."
"Why?" Dallas quirked her brow.
"She loves studying," Minako said. The blue-haired girl smiled when mentioned, shaking her head in fondness at their exasperation to studies.
Dallas presented a casual smile. They appeared to know about each other enough to tease—meaning they were genuinely good friends.
Michiru turned her gaze over to her wife, smiling at her. "I suppose we should make ourselves known, ne, Haruka?"
"But of course," Haruka answered coolly, teal eyes focused on the brunette in front of their princess. "Even if she is just a cute girl, she could be an enemy."
"Haruka-papa, don't be too harsh," Hotaru chastised her adoptive father, dark violet eyes giving her a look.
"We have to be careful though, hime-chan," Haruka reminded Hotaru, taking a deep breath. But in this scenario, she needed to be wary of the new girl's presence.
"Your papa is right… we need to know what her intentions are," Michiru was in agreement with Haruka. "Nonetheless, let's approach the situation delicately."
As her make shift family made their way over, Setsuna gave them a sideways glance, nodding at them. "I'd like you to meet the rest of my family," She introduced her adoptive family to the young girl, hoping she wouldn't be scared by her friends' composed appearances.
Dallas looked at Hotaru primarily, sensing the powerful vibrations she gave. This young girl was probably close to her age, but she came off as mysterious looking. However, she focused on her eyes, which were full of innocence but also life to them as well.
Koda glanced up at Hotaru, his body visibly tensing up. He could also sense the energy as well, making him uneasy.
Dallas turned to see her canine guardian was wary, rubbing the back of his neck to calm him down. Whoever she was, they made Koda feel uneasy right off the bat. She would have to keep her guard up just in case.
"I'm Tomoe Hotaru," Hotaru bowed out of respect, dark violet eyes meeting with the lavender ones. "It's nice to meet you."
As Dallas kept her gaze on Hotaru, she could feel a slight change in vibrations. Clearly this girl may have looked quiet, but she certainly seemed kind. "Dallas Mercer," she dipped her head in return. "It's nice to meet you too."
Hotaru's eyes glanced down at Koda, squatting down and looked up at Dallas asking, "Is the dog your's?"
"Hai, Koda is mine," Dallas confirmed.
"Is it okay if I pet him?"
Dallas shrugged before she gave Koda a look that interpreted as 'be nice or else'. "Sure, he's a pretty chill dog, so he doesn't mind."
Koda sighed, sniffing Hotaru's hand and didn't tense up when scratched his ears. 'Huh, who would think this girl was gentle,' he thought, leaning into her touch. For some reason though, he felt a sense of familiarity around Hotaru. It was like as if he knew from before, but from where?
The usually quiet girl also felt a sense of familiarity as well. For some reason, she felt like she knew the canine or his name from somewhere.
"Hotaru is our adoptive daughter," Setsuna informed Dallas.
Dallas was surprised by this piece of news. Still, the fact that she was adopted it gave her a sense of relating to Hotaru. "You and your… friends must be great parents," She said, expression a warm smile. "Everyone should be loved, and the three of you must be great influences in her life."
Haruka was surprised by the compliment. She was still wary, as she didn't get the chance to know whether or not if she was an enemy. It would be up to debate for later, but she reflected on Dallas' comment. 'It certainly is nice, to have people by your side.' She thought, her eyes landing on Michiru.
"Haruka-papa and Michiru-mama are cool to be around!" Hotaru said in agreement, letting the brunette know how important they were to her.
Dallas turned her gaze back onto Haruka and Michiru, realizing who Hotaru was talking about and felt her face flush from embarrassment apologizing, "Whoops! I didn't mean to be rude and introduce myself," she bowed out of respect to show she meant no harm. She felt incredibly rude not to notice Setsuna's friends.
Michiru expressed a one of her distinctive smiles saying in a reassuring tone, "Nonsense, you weren't rude in anyway."
Gazing around, her eyes stopped at a certain sandy blonde haired woman in male clothes, and felt her heart speeding up a bit just now as she looked into those teal eyes.
Haruka stared back at the young brunette, blinking as she noticed the brunette's cheeks turn a tint of red. 'Play it cool Haruka, you don't know her... she's an outsider,' She thought, shifting her shoulders and swallowed a lump in her throat. Mostly from another thought that occurred in her head. 'Than again, I can imagine Michiru isn't going to be happy…Mostly on the inside.'
Setsuna shifted her gaze at where Dallas was looking. It was obvious the young girl was instantly smitten by Haruka. Who wouldn't be by those handsome facial features, teal green eyes, and charming smile? Yet something emotionally started to shift inside the time guardian. She didn't know what, but it certainly had something to do with her thoughts about the masculine tomboy.
Michiru looked at where Dallas' eyes stopped at, staring at Haruka and suddenly felt a bit possessive. "My name is Kaioh-Tenoh Michiru," She introduced herself, putting on a polite smile. "It's nice to meet you."
The vibrations within Dallas' head changed, her thoughts were interrupted from her daze. Gazing at the aqua-haired woman, she looked very elegant and beautiful outwardly. 'I don't know what it is, but she's definitely intense.' She thought, suddenly feeling a bit nervous inwardly. "Nice to meet you too," She spoke up, making sure her relaxed façade didn't falter and looked at the last person in the group.
Koda's gold eyes landed on Michiru, seeing the way she stared at Dallas. Clearly whatever changed within the aqua-haired woman's mood, it sent red flags up within his mind.
Haruka looked at Michiru, then back at Dallas. If anything, she could tell her wife wasn't taken too kindly by the female stranger staring at her. "Tenoh Haruka," She introduced herself, extending out her right hand.
Dallas was about to extend that hand, but she lost her balance when she felt the ground started to shake. 'Did I miss any upcoming reports on earthquakes being in Tokyo?' She rhetorically wondered, quickly regaining her footing and held onto Koda in order to keep him close to her.
"Hey, is it my imagination or is the ground shaking?" Minako asked as her voice shook, trying to keep her balance.
Rei kept herself from falling, her face looking at the red-bow haired girl with a baffled look on her face. "Of course the ground is shaking Mina-baka!" She barked, her eyes shifting over to Usagi.
Usagi nodded her head, understanding the direness of the situation. She hated to leave her new friend behind, but there was no time for explanations.
"The wind certainly didn't mention any danger." Haruka growled, keeping her arm around Michiru.
Michiru kept herself close to Haruka, knowing full well that there must've been an enemy nearby.
Luna and Artemis were in Mamoru's arms, making sure the Moon cats weren't harmed by the shifting seismic activity going on.
Koda turned his gaze up to Dallas, seeing the brunette was hesitant to abandon her new friends. 'So much for an uninterrupted vacation,' He thought, motioning to Dallas to follow him.
Dallas sprinted, dropping her sketch book along the way. She headed to any nearby location that looked private and abandoned. Once there was privacy, she pulled down her designer shades. "Andromeda Cyber Power! Make Up!"
Setsuna saw that the tree was coming her way, and was tempted to use one of the forbidden taboos in order to freeze time.
"Setsuna-mama!" Hotaru cried out, about to use one of her abilities, but she froze upon seeing another else.
A barrier made up of pure sound waves formed over Setsuna, and the person that saved her.
"Everything is going to be okay."
"That would depend on the situation…" Her voice trailer off, her expression slightly changed and garnet eyes focused on the young woman before her. The colors that this person bore, they were the same ones from her thoughts.
She wore a white unitard made up of a sleek metal mesh with purple trimming near the rib area. The front and back bows were platinum silver, with a jade green gemstone in the front bow shaped like a music note; the mini-skirt was lavender; Metalized armored gauntlets that reach up to the elbows and knee-length armored boots that were white with matching purple markings and glowing lavender designs. Metal-like shoulder pads with platinum silver trimming and lavender highlights, a silver belt with purple trimming around her waist with metalized pockets; Platinum silvery metal choker around her neck with glowing lavender designs and a lavender gemstone on it. She also wore a white cape with purple lining connected to the shoulder pads. Finally, she had visor with platinum silver metal rims with sharp edged wing-like tips covering her ears and the color of the visor is lavender, including a face mask that covered her entire face and neck, and around her forehead what appeared to be a metalized tiara with a lavender gemstone on it.
As the costumed brunette used her sound-based powers emitting from her armored gauntlets to push the tree, she carefully pushed the tree and made sure no one was in harm's way. Once it was over, her lavender eyes focused on Setsuna. "My name is Sailor Andromeda," She introduced herself, her voice in a dual tone from the mask she wore and spoke in Japanese. "I guess no tree will be harming you." She quipped, grinning at the time goddess.
Once the earthquakes subsided, everyone stood there dumbfounded or flabbergasted. They tried to make sense of what just happened in front of them. If anything, they weren't prepared for the appearance of another sailor senshi.
"She's a sailor senshi?! There's another sailor senshi here on Earth!" Rei exclaimed, pointing her finger at the new senshi in front of her.
"Well, she did save Setsuna-san." Ami pointed out, studying the young heroine before her.
"She could be an enemy," Haruka pointed out, getting a closer look and teal eyes narrowed at her. "For all we know, she could've brought danger here to Tokyo."
"You mean how you thought the Sailor Starlights were working with Galaxia?" Minako asked, remembering what happened ten years ago. However, those thoughts were interrupted when a loud booming roar was heard and saw a creature nearby. "We can debate the whole thing later. There's some monster up ahead."
Haruka let out an annoyed grunt, not liking when things were unresolved. However, she felt a soft hand touch her's and looked down.
"Let's focus on what we can do, and get answers after the battle." Michiru stated, not wanting her partner to remain unfocused.
"Right," Haruka nodded her head in understanding. "I'd like to focus my frustration on the idiot who came by unannounced on koneko-chan's birthday."
Michiru smiled at her lover's protectiveness over her princess. It showed passion in her eyes, at how much loyalty there was being bound by duty to their princess. Still, now wasn't the time to get lost in thought, as she looked upon a gray-like reptilian creature make its entrance.
The young heroine looked at the creature, the vibrations in her head warning her of the danger it represented. "It's best that you get out of here." She suggested, charging into the direction of where this monster was. "I just wonder if this… thing isn't just here to enjoy the sights."
Once Andromeda was out of sight, garnet eyes focused on the brunette before. In her mind, she felt the name came out of familiarity, but couldn't get any mental images of her old life to make them out. "Sailor Andromeda... It seems you came at the right time." Setsuna said, pulling out a cool cylindrical object with a transformation crystal on it. "Pluto Crystal Power! Make Up!"
Setsuna used her henshin stick to transform into Sailor Pluto. Once the transformation was complete, the same dark green haired woman stood tall in a white leotard, with the front and back bows in deep reds. Her skirt, collar, choker, and the ends of her gloves are black. She wore long high heeled boots that were black with white accents at the top. The earrings and her brooch shone bright like the red Garnet Orb she wielded at the top of her staff.
'This young girl, she is certainly a mystery,' Pluto thought as garnet eyes focused on the one the creature before her, and she gripped her Garnet Staff tightly. 'For now, I believe this evil should be stopped.'
…
Notes: After putting this off for so many months, I finally got around to it! While I did write Sailor Moon story ten years ago, I lost interest. However, I feel like I found some renewed vigor and passion for it after reading some other Sailor Moon stories. Anyway, I'm open to any constructive criticism and reviews of what you guys thing. Be as honest as you can because I want to make sure this story lives up to the hype. Also, I had some help co-writing this chapter with Rakurai Densetsu. Thank you very much for your help and it's appreciated! I would recommend reading her Sailor Moon story, which is very much worth the read!