The True Meaning of Destiny
NOTE: I do not have any legal rights to the Sailor Moon series or anything else related to Sailor Moon, and yes I do quote scenes from the anime. I don't intend to make money so yeah, that's that. This is merely a fanfic of my own devising. I was truly touched by the relationship that was hinted at between Seiya and Usagi and I simply wished to create a world in which these two may share their lives together as one. This is NOT an anti- Mamoru story. I adore Usako and Mamochan, but the way Seiya and "Odango" were portrayed in Sailor Moon Sailor Stars was too appealing to simply ignore and let fade away. I think that both the Manga and the anime were wonderful, so I have decided to kind of incorporate both into my story here. That said I truly hope you enjoy my writing! Feel free to be completely and even brutally honest with any comments you may have ^_^
xX**UPDATE 7/25**Xx
Heh, well I replaced chapter one with a slightly revised version (I will probably change it again later, who knows), and I plan on posting chapter two ASAP. Please R/R for me! Thanks so much for reading ^_^
***
Remembrance
Usagi sat straight up in the velvet arms of night, her heart pounding. Her room was so dark that she could barely make out the lines of her window. Even the moon seemed to be hiding. She felt cold, as though the icy hand of Death had reached into her heart and pierced it with its long gnarled fingers. What was going on?
Swinging her legs around to the edge of the bed, Usagi sat there for a moment, trying to steady herself. Her hands gripped the edge of the bed so tightly that if she could have seen them, her knuckles would have been white. Usagi felt that her heart was constricted so tightly in her chest she was sure it would be squeezed into nothingness by her ribcage. As she tried to stand up in order to turn on her desk lamp, her knees gave way. Her legs buckled beneath her, causing her to fall to the floor in a crumpled heap.
Breathing somewhat rapidly, Usagi heaved herself up by grabbing onto a corner of her desk for support. With trembling fingers she managed to turn the switch. Never had a switch seemed so small or so complicated. Exhausted she slumped over her desk in a half-standing position, too tired to even pull out her chair. What was going on with her tonight?
It had been two years since Mamoru left her to study in America. Two years since the battle with Galaxia. Two years of absolute peace. Ami, Makoto, Minako, Rei...they were all there with her, as close as friends can possibly be without sharing blood. Mamoru...she received letters at least three or four times a week from him, sharing with her all the details of his life and how his experiments were going at Harvard. Even Luna had relaxed and let up on Usagi, being more of a friend these days rather than a strict teacher. Her days were filled with love and laughter and fun. So why had she been waking up for the past three weeks in the middle of the night with this aching in her heart? Her eyes were drawn to the tattered corner of a photograph sticking out from between the pages of her favorite comic book. Her hand automatically moved towards it, as if to remove it from in between its paper guardians, but Usagi stopped herself from taking it out. She knew that this was not the time for regrets.
Instead, Usagi separated a piece of creamy pink potpourri scented paper from the others that were in a pink box on her desk, feverishly hoping that composing a letter to Mamochan would calm her body and soul enough so that she could sleep. She sat down slowly in her chair, making sure her legs were steady. Taking her favorite pen in hand (it was a fountain pen with beautiful swirls of silver and pink inside of clear glass, a gift from Mamochan), she tapped it thoughtfully against her chin, trying to decide what would be worthy enough to write down in a letter to her love. Her eyes automatically shifted to the photograph at her left. Two smiling faces beamed back at her, their eyes sparkling with love and the promise of a new future together.
The young man in the picture was handsome. Intelligence radiated from his eyes and there was kindness in his smile. His black hair fell casually to one side. It was somewhat long, but neatly trimmed and did not get in the way of his beautiful sapphire-colored eyes. There was a gentle air about him, something that was present even in this frozen moment the photograph presented. It was gentle yet strong, an air that conveyed strength and confidence, as well as dependability. Mamochan, Usagi thought silently. I miss your face so much my love. Please, please come back to me soon.
***
Sailor Star Fighter sighed as she gazed up into the night sky. All was peaceful as usual, the things became after the fight with Galaxia. That terrifying, beautiful fight in which Fighter had been shown a love that she had not known existed before arriving on Earth. Adjusting her black fuku, she felt a twinge of annoyance with the shiny black outfit. Rarely did she don any other attire and lately the fuku had been getting on her nerves. The laces just didn't seem to want to stay tied these days! It was almost as if even her clothing was relaxing, as though it could somehow sense the peace that enveloped the galaxy. What a stupid analogy. Fighter chastised herself for thinking clothing could actually have a will of its own, but at the same time the irritation she felt drained away somewhat.
Sighing again, this time with an edge of impatience, Fighter stood up and stretched her arms up into the night sky, admiring the view of hers, Maker's, and Healer's stars from her viewpoint on the cliff. They shone quietly, their rich red, blue, and yellow auras illuminating the sky around them, putting the other stars to shame.
"Fighter?" A soft, feminine voice announced its presence at her left elbow. Startled, Fighter spun around to confront its owner.
"Ah, Kakyuu Princess. Forgive me, I was a little surprised by you just now." Fighter stammered out an excuse, hoping her actions hadn't offended the princess.
"Fighter...I sense that you are troubled. Something...something is stirring in your heart at this very moment. It's almost as if...even after peace was restored you've carried a burden ever since we returned. Do you wish to speak with me about it?" The princess' eyes were kind and understanding was in her voice. She reached out to gently place her small white hand on Fighter's shoulder, offering reassurance.
"Princess...I...well...I guess I just feel restless these days. After fighting for so long for this peace we've been blessed with, I guess it's hard to not be constantly looking over my shoulder. It feels as though this peace is fragile, like a lotus flower. I am afraid that these beautiful petals upon which we are resting will suddenly wilt beneath our feet. Am I being overly cautious?" To Fighter, it sounded like her words were hollow, lacking the depth of feeling and truth that she wanted them to have. Of course that was a concern for the Starlights, but in truth those feelings were further away from them than they ever had been in many years.
The princess merely smiled that soft, loving smile of hers and settled down on a flat rock overlooking the cliff, her ruby-red hair flaring about her as it settled around her in the evening breeze. "Fighter...I think I have an idea of what it troubling you, if I may be so bold as to say so. Healer and Maker have been concerned about you, so they asked me to help them solve the mystery of what's troubling you." The princess smiled at Fighter's astonishment and spoke before she could open her mouth. "Please...we only wish to help you, and see that you are happy."
Fighter opened her mouth to speak when she saw two figures emerging from the surrounding brush. "Healer...Maker...you...you knew that I was troubled?" Her voice trailed off on the last word as a strong sense of shame swept over her body. She was supposed to be strong, a true soldier to the last, not causing her friends and even her princess to worry about her. Why couldn't she have hidden her true feelings better? "Gomen...I never meant to trouble you with my petty problems. We have many other things to worry about, such as the continuing reconstruction of our planet and..." She stopped speaking as Maker came very close to her, placing both hands on her shoulders. Maker's deep violet eyes pierced her own blue ones rendering her unable to speak.
"Fighter...please be honest with us. Now is not the time for secrets my friend. We three know you the best and we all have our own speculations, but we would rather hear it from you. So please Fighter...share your thoughts with us." Maker's rich, low voice was soothing, its comforting effect washing over Fighter's body, making her feel relaxed and clear- headed. Fighter glanced over at Healer who nodded, her silver hair glinting in the starlight like a million strands of precious metal. Taking a deep breath, she stated her thoughts.
"Healer...Maker...Kakyuu Princess...I wish to return to Earth." Fighter paused, unsure if she should go on as she read their expressions. Their faces were smooth and unreadable.
"I wish to return to Earth...for good."
***
"Usagi-chan! It's time to get up! You're supposed to go shopping today for Mamoru-san's homecoming gift, remember?" Luna's voice drifted into Usagi's room. "Usagi! Hurry up or you're going to miss out on all the best sales!"
Luna padded down the hallway into Usagi's room wondering what was taking her so long. Yesterday she was so excited to go shopping for Mamoru-san and now she doesn't want to get up? Luna peered around the corner of Usagi's door with large, inquisitive brown eyes.
Usagi was already up and sitting at her table. Her back was to Luna, but Luna could see that she was holding something in her hand. It looked like a photograph with tattered corners, but she couldn't be sure. Luna was about to say her name when she heard Usagi sigh heavily. Her long blonde hair, done up in its usual bun-and-pigtail style, partially covered her face so Luna couldn't see her expression, but she had known Usagi long enough to know when she was crying. Wondering what was troubling this normally carefree girl so much, Luna's questions were answered in a single glance.
It was a photo. But it wasn't of Mamoru-san like she had thought. It was an old magazine clipping of Seiya Kou of Three Lights.
***
Healer walked down the hallway towards Fighter's room, yawning lazily and brushing her silver hair out of her eyes as she went. What in the world has gotten into her? Has Fighter gone mad, wishing to return to Earth for good? What about her duty to protect our princess? Healer shook her head in confusion, her green eyes looking troubled. She knew the reason, the true reason why Fighter wished to return. It was all for that girl, Sailor Moon. Fighter's "Odango" so to speak. Healer wasn't sure what to make of it all. They were on opposite ends of the galaxy. Sailor Moon had her own destiny to fulfill, that much was certain. She is, after all, the Moon Princess, Healer thought glumly. I suppose there is no real way to get out of this other than to let Fighter do as she wishes. Hell, it's her greatest dream. Sighing, Healer stopped at Maker's door and rapped her knuckles softly against the rich cherry wood. As she waited patiently for Maker to answer, a smiling face with a pair of huge blue eyes and long blonde hair tied with a red bow danced in her mind's eye. Smiling, Healer concluded that everyone has dreams, and that each dream is just as important as the next.
***
"Come in." Maker looked up, surprised at Healer's glum expression. Normally she was bright and cheerful, especially these days since peace had returned to the galaxy. "Healer. Something is troubling you. May I be of assistance?" Maker put down the book she had been reading and stood up to place a comforting arm on her friend's shoulders. She didn't need Healer to tell her what she already knew - it was about Fighter wanting to leave Kinmoku for good. Ignoring the open door, she led Healer over to the window ledge, where they could look out over the beautiful aqua-colored meadow dotted with flowers. For a long time the two women sat together, studying the scenery that stretched out before them, like an endless sea. The blades of grass rippled in the afternoon breeze, making it seem as though the entire palace was surrounded by a sea of aqua jade. Unbidden, the image of Ami Mizuno came to mind. It was just for an instant, but it was enough to cause Maker to inhale sharply. Why did I think of that girl? Her violet eyes wide with shock, she was scarcely aware that Healer had placed a hand over her own.
"Maker...you're thinking of them too, aren't you? Those girls that love and protect Sailor Moon." Healer's voice was gentle. A trace of wistfulness was in her eyes as she stared out the window over the rippling meadow. "I wish to see them again too, almost as much as Fighter does." Maker could not muster any sort of response that seemed adequate so she merely bowed her head and nodded silently.
Kakyuu watched the two young women, studying them thoughtfully. Nodding her head, she walked away silently, making no more noise than the gentle spring breeze.
***
Fighter stood out on the balcony off her room, going through the reactions of the others when she finally voiced her greatest wish to them. As expected, they were shocked, but not in the way she had expected them to be. They had always known of Fighter's love for her "Odango" even though she had never told them directly about it. They knew that Fighter would one day wish to return to Earth in order to see her. What they hadn't expected was that Fighter wished to leave planet Kinmoku for good, in order to at least be near Odango.
Fighter gazed down wearily at her hands. It feels like a million years since I have been able to see her last, she thought. I wonder if...she and Mamoru-san are happy together. They must be nearly married by now. Maybe I am just a fool for wanting to leave the planet I have guarded with all my strength for my entire life but...I want to see her. Even if she is with Mamoru-san, I must see her, be near her in some small way. Fighter's eyes were drawn to a couple on the grass below her balcony. They looked blissful; lying there in the soft grass with their arms wrapped one another. "I wonder if...it would be that way with her and me...if it wasn't for the fact that she is with Mamoru-san...I could..." A memory conjured itself in her mind's eye, beginning with a long golden strand that eventually wound itself into a bun...
Seiya is walking alongside Usagi down the street discussing why he wished to continue on with the musical when the director is so hard on him. Seiya stops and turns to face Usagi.
"Tell me Odango...do you have a boyfriend?"
"I do...overseas."
"Hmm. I still have a chance then." Seiya's smiles somewhat coyly at Usagi as he continues to walk past her.
"What?"
Seiya smiles more broadly to himself and continues walking down the road. The image of Usagi grows fainter and fainter as he walks...
Fighter felt her chest tighten and her stomach tie itself in knots. She winced as the familiar burning sensation set her heart aflame and pricked her eyes. "Odango," she whispered. "I wonder if you think of me as much as I think of you."
"Fighter." Fighter did not turn towards the speaker, instead keeping her eyes fixed on the happy couple below, her hands clenched into tight fists, a mechanism to keep herself from feeling the ache full blast. "Fighter...please, look at me." Kakyuu's voice was soft, but firm. Reluctantly Fighter brought her ultramarine eyes to meet her princess' deep bronze ones. "Fighter, this is your greatest wish, is it not? To be near the one you love with every inch of your very being...it is indeed painful when you are separated by a few miles, let alone an entire galaxy." The princess' eyes were faraway, focused on something that only she could see. "I experienced a love like that myself...as you very well know...and even though he is gone, destroyed by the hands of Galaxia, I feel blessed to have been able to experience such a love. I feel content to have been able to be with him for that short time instead of feeling a sense of permanent loss when he died."
"Princess..." Fighter's voice trailed off as she studied the profile of her princess, unsure of what she could possibly say to her, a woman whom she swore to protect with her life. Any words now would be as bitter to swallow as vinegar, no matter how sincere.
"Fighter, what I am saying is this: I want you to go." Kakyuu kept her eyes locked on the distant horizon, her poise as elegant and controlled as ever. "I don't want you to live your life without having the chance to experience that same bliss I was blessed with. Please Fighter," she turned towards her, her eyes wide and her tone reassuring, "Please do not miss out on something you may regret for the rest of your life." Placing gentle hands on both of Fighter's shoulders, the graceful princess looked her straight in the eye. "The three of you must go. You have done more than I could ever have dreamed of for both myself and the rest of the galaxy. Now is your time to achieve your greatest wishes!"
Fighter was speechless. The three of them? A flash of movement in the corner of her eye caught her attention. Looking over the princess' head she saw Healer and Maker approaching, both of them looking excited and worried all at once. Swallowing hard she addressed her friends. "The three of us...?"
Maker smiled and nodded while Healer piped in teasingly "Of course the three of us. Didja think that you were the only one with a dream to fulfill?" Fighter smiled happily at her princess, tears clouding over her beautiful ultramarine eyes.
"Arigato gozaimashita, Princess!"
***
Crown's was crowded for the midday meal as usual. The patrons were happily chatting away and eating their food without a care in the world. In the far corner of the café at a large table were seated four young women. One was elegant-looking and black-haired, with large, exotic, deep purple eyes. She was looking over a magazine with another girl who possessed wavy, nutmeg-brown tresses held back in a ponytail. Her large, dark green eyes darted from one picture to the next in the magazine as she chatted and laughed with her friends. Seated across from the two was a bubbly-looking blonde with long straight hair adorned by a single giant red bow. Her cornflower-blue eyes sparkled with excitement as she showed an ad for a talent contest to a sweet-faced thalo-blue haired girl with lovely eyes that radiated intelligence to match. These four women looked so happy and normal that no one would have guessed they were actually Sailor Senshi.
"Ooooooooo, what about that one!" Rei squealed with excitement so loudly that Makoto winced as she felt her ear drum get blown away. Her long slender finger pointed out a beautiful leather bag with polished brass buckles. "I am positive Mamoru-san would like to have this. It matches his intelligent personality and busy lifestyle perfectly!" Makoto nodded, feeling a headache coming on from Rei's earlier outburst.
"Hai, I think this one will be good for Mamoru-san. Minako-chan, Ami-chan, what do you guys think? Should we get this one for Mamoru-san's homecoming present or keep looking?" Minako and Ami leaned over to see the picture of the briefcase while long drawn-out "Ooooooooo's" escaped their lips.
"I think it's perfect for a student like Mamoru-san," Ami announced. "It will be useful for keeping his papers and important articles organized!" The other three nodded in agreement. At that same moment, they saw three waiters approaching the table with their orders. While Makoto bent down to place the magazine back in her bag, she received a sharp pinch on her arm from Rei.
"Ow!" she exclaimed, coming up from under the table, "What's the big i-"
Rei kicked her ankle underneath the table and whispered hastily in her ear "Oh my god Makoto-chan, look and see how handsome our waiters are!" Makoto barely had time to look up when her eyes met the most gorgeous pair of peridot-colored eyes she had ever seen.
"Your order, miss." There was something familiar about that low, slightly throaty voice that caused her to look more closely at the waiter. His hair was completely hidden by a large chef's hat that nearly fell over his eyes. Likewise, she noticed that the other girls (especially Minako and Rei) were all starry-eyed as they came face to face with their handsome waiters.
Their orders in place, the three men stepped back from the table and bowed. The middle one looked up at the girls, causing them to blush as he looked at each one in turn with his amazing ultramarine eyes. "Is there anything else we can do for you?" His slightly low voice made each girl blush even more furiously as each struggled to keep their poise in the presence of such beautiful men. Ami risked looking up once more at the waiters before saying everything is all right when she met the gaze of the tallest waiter. His wide violet eyes were locked on hers, rendering her speechless for a moment. No...It can't be, she thought. There is no way that it could be him...
"Yaten-kun!" Minako's joyful cry caused heads to whip in the direction of the girls' table. "Yaten-kun! Seiya-kun! Taiki-san! Welcome back!" The others looked hesitant until Seiya looked down at them and winked. Never had there been a more joyous reunion until that moment as the four women and three men embraced.
***
Usagi dropped her bags and headed straight for her bedroom. Arms outstretched, she collapsed onto her wonderfully soft bed. Shopping for four hours was enough to tire anyone out! Not bothering with her new purchases, Usagi immediately walked over to her bookshelf and plucked her favorite comic book from a row. Opening the book in the middle, she plucked out a tattered piece of paper. Familiar ultramarine eyes gazed back into her sapphire ones. Those eyes, that long black hair tapered into a ponytail, that wonderful smile...Usagi's heart ached as she studied his handsome face. Seiya...wherever you are, I hope you are doing well. Her fingers lightly trailed over the picture as crystalline tears formed in the corners of her eyes. "I miss your face," she whispered, trying to fight off the urge to cry. "I even miss the way you used to call me 'Odango', Seiya. I miss your presence!"
Tears flowing freely down her cheek, Usagi lay down on her side, clutching the old magazine clipping to her heart. Inside she was torn. She knew she had her destiny to fulfill; being the Moon Princess and the future Neo- Queen Serenity of 30th Century Crystal Tokyo. Yet inside she somehow felt hollow, as though a huge piece was missing from her life. Things were going well between her and Mamochan but...her thoughts constantly drifted back to Seiya. At first a dull ache would begin in her heart, but she wasn't really sure why. As she held the photo as close to her body as possible, a memory came to mind, completely unbidden...
"Odango!"
"Hmm?"
"I am glad you finally got together with your boyfriend."
"It was because of Seiya that I made it. It was because of you, Seiya, that I could hang in there."
"O-Odango..."
"Hmm?"
"I'll never forget you!"
"Yes! We'll be friends forever!"
"...Oh come on!"
Usagi blushed a bit at the memory, but smiled broadly nonetheless. At the time well...she hadn't quite understood the range of Seiya's emotions for her. She had merely assumed he had only wished to be her closest friend, someone to look out for her while Mamochan was away. When was it that I realized he had been in love with me? Usagi gazed at the picture, studying that handsome face. Why didn't I see it sooner? All those things he did for me...and the way he respected my relationship with Mamochan...he must have loved me very much. I was so bakageta. Tracing the outline of Seiya's face with her fingertip, Usagi felt her heart swell with a very different kind of emotion. It was similar to what she felt for Mamochan, but not quite. It filled her heart to nearly bursting and made her blush.
I've fallen in love with him.
The realization forced her to sit up straight, her heart pounding so hard she was sure it would leap out of her chest at any moment. I love Seiya. I really do love him. I wonder how long I've been pushing these feelings away, stuffing them deep down inside of me because of my predestined devotion to Mamochan. Sighing, Usagi glanced over at her desk to the picture of her and Mamochan. They looked so happy in that picture together. Her heart was being torn between the two men. Maybe I can just ignore my longing for Seiya, she decided. He is, after all, on the other end of the galaxy. I will most likely never see him or Yaten or Taiki ever again. Giving a rueful sigh, she replaced the magazine clipping in her comic book and headed towards the kitchen in order to prepare dinner.
Diiiiiiing-dooooong!
The doorbell sounded, causing Usagi to visibly jump into the air a bit. Checking the clock, she wondered who on earth it could be. She knew the girls were planning on going shopping for Mamochan's homecoming gift this afternoon so it couldn't be for any of them. Shuffling her feet a bit she called out "Hai!" and slowly opened the door. The light was so bright in the hallway that at first she couldn't see anything. Squinting into the light, she shielded her eyes with one hand.
"Hai?"
"Odango!"
NOTE: I do not have any legal rights to the Sailor Moon series or anything else related to Sailor Moon, and yes I do quote scenes from the anime. I don't intend to make money so yeah, that's that. This is merely a fanfic of my own devising. I was truly touched by the relationship that was hinted at between Seiya and Usagi and I simply wished to create a world in which these two may share their lives together as one. This is NOT an anti- Mamoru story. I adore Usako and Mamochan, but the way Seiya and "Odango" were portrayed in Sailor Moon Sailor Stars was too appealing to simply ignore and let fade away. I think that both the Manga and the anime were wonderful, so I have decided to kind of incorporate both into my story here. That said I truly hope you enjoy my writing! Feel free to be completely and even brutally honest with any comments you may have ^_^
xX**UPDATE 7/25**Xx
Heh, well I replaced chapter one with a slightly revised version (I will probably change it again later, who knows), and I plan on posting chapter two ASAP. Please R/R for me! Thanks so much for reading ^_^
***
Remembrance
Usagi sat straight up in the velvet arms of night, her heart pounding. Her room was so dark that she could barely make out the lines of her window. Even the moon seemed to be hiding. She felt cold, as though the icy hand of Death had reached into her heart and pierced it with its long gnarled fingers. What was going on?
Swinging her legs around to the edge of the bed, Usagi sat there for a moment, trying to steady herself. Her hands gripped the edge of the bed so tightly that if she could have seen them, her knuckles would have been white. Usagi felt that her heart was constricted so tightly in her chest she was sure it would be squeezed into nothingness by her ribcage. As she tried to stand up in order to turn on her desk lamp, her knees gave way. Her legs buckled beneath her, causing her to fall to the floor in a crumpled heap.
Breathing somewhat rapidly, Usagi heaved herself up by grabbing onto a corner of her desk for support. With trembling fingers she managed to turn the switch. Never had a switch seemed so small or so complicated. Exhausted she slumped over her desk in a half-standing position, too tired to even pull out her chair. What was going on with her tonight?
It had been two years since Mamoru left her to study in America. Two years since the battle with Galaxia. Two years of absolute peace. Ami, Makoto, Minako, Rei...they were all there with her, as close as friends can possibly be without sharing blood. Mamoru...she received letters at least three or four times a week from him, sharing with her all the details of his life and how his experiments were going at Harvard. Even Luna had relaxed and let up on Usagi, being more of a friend these days rather than a strict teacher. Her days were filled with love and laughter and fun. So why had she been waking up for the past three weeks in the middle of the night with this aching in her heart? Her eyes were drawn to the tattered corner of a photograph sticking out from between the pages of her favorite comic book. Her hand automatically moved towards it, as if to remove it from in between its paper guardians, but Usagi stopped herself from taking it out. She knew that this was not the time for regrets.
Instead, Usagi separated a piece of creamy pink potpourri scented paper from the others that were in a pink box on her desk, feverishly hoping that composing a letter to Mamochan would calm her body and soul enough so that she could sleep. She sat down slowly in her chair, making sure her legs were steady. Taking her favorite pen in hand (it was a fountain pen with beautiful swirls of silver and pink inside of clear glass, a gift from Mamochan), she tapped it thoughtfully against her chin, trying to decide what would be worthy enough to write down in a letter to her love. Her eyes automatically shifted to the photograph at her left. Two smiling faces beamed back at her, their eyes sparkling with love and the promise of a new future together.
The young man in the picture was handsome. Intelligence radiated from his eyes and there was kindness in his smile. His black hair fell casually to one side. It was somewhat long, but neatly trimmed and did not get in the way of his beautiful sapphire-colored eyes. There was a gentle air about him, something that was present even in this frozen moment the photograph presented. It was gentle yet strong, an air that conveyed strength and confidence, as well as dependability. Mamochan, Usagi thought silently. I miss your face so much my love. Please, please come back to me soon.
***
Sailor Star Fighter sighed as she gazed up into the night sky. All was peaceful as usual, the things became after the fight with Galaxia. That terrifying, beautiful fight in which Fighter had been shown a love that she had not known existed before arriving on Earth. Adjusting her black fuku, she felt a twinge of annoyance with the shiny black outfit. Rarely did she don any other attire and lately the fuku had been getting on her nerves. The laces just didn't seem to want to stay tied these days! It was almost as if even her clothing was relaxing, as though it could somehow sense the peace that enveloped the galaxy. What a stupid analogy. Fighter chastised herself for thinking clothing could actually have a will of its own, but at the same time the irritation she felt drained away somewhat.
Sighing again, this time with an edge of impatience, Fighter stood up and stretched her arms up into the night sky, admiring the view of hers, Maker's, and Healer's stars from her viewpoint on the cliff. They shone quietly, their rich red, blue, and yellow auras illuminating the sky around them, putting the other stars to shame.
"Fighter?" A soft, feminine voice announced its presence at her left elbow. Startled, Fighter spun around to confront its owner.
"Ah, Kakyuu Princess. Forgive me, I was a little surprised by you just now." Fighter stammered out an excuse, hoping her actions hadn't offended the princess.
"Fighter...I sense that you are troubled. Something...something is stirring in your heart at this very moment. It's almost as if...even after peace was restored you've carried a burden ever since we returned. Do you wish to speak with me about it?" The princess' eyes were kind and understanding was in her voice. She reached out to gently place her small white hand on Fighter's shoulder, offering reassurance.
"Princess...I...well...I guess I just feel restless these days. After fighting for so long for this peace we've been blessed with, I guess it's hard to not be constantly looking over my shoulder. It feels as though this peace is fragile, like a lotus flower. I am afraid that these beautiful petals upon which we are resting will suddenly wilt beneath our feet. Am I being overly cautious?" To Fighter, it sounded like her words were hollow, lacking the depth of feeling and truth that she wanted them to have. Of course that was a concern for the Starlights, but in truth those feelings were further away from them than they ever had been in many years.
The princess merely smiled that soft, loving smile of hers and settled down on a flat rock overlooking the cliff, her ruby-red hair flaring about her as it settled around her in the evening breeze. "Fighter...I think I have an idea of what it troubling you, if I may be so bold as to say so. Healer and Maker have been concerned about you, so they asked me to help them solve the mystery of what's troubling you." The princess smiled at Fighter's astonishment and spoke before she could open her mouth. "Please...we only wish to help you, and see that you are happy."
Fighter opened her mouth to speak when she saw two figures emerging from the surrounding brush. "Healer...Maker...you...you knew that I was troubled?" Her voice trailed off on the last word as a strong sense of shame swept over her body. She was supposed to be strong, a true soldier to the last, not causing her friends and even her princess to worry about her. Why couldn't she have hidden her true feelings better? "Gomen...I never meant to trouble you with my petty problems. We have many other things to worry about, such as the continuing reconstruction of our planet and..." She stopped speaking as Maker came very close to her, placing both hands on her shoulders. Maker's deep violet eyes pierced her own blue ones rendering her unable to speak.
"Fighter...please be honest with us. Now is not the time for secrets my friend. We three know you the best and we all have our own speculations, but we would rather hear it from you. So please Fighter...share your thoughts with us." Maker's rich, low voice was soothing, its comforting effect washing over Fighter's body, making her feel relaxed and clear- headed. Fighter glanced over at Healer who nodded, her silver hair glinting in the starlight like a million strands of precious metal. Taking a deep breath, she stated her thoughts.
"Healer...Maker...Kakyuu Princess...I wish to return to Earth." Fighter paused, unsure if she should go on as she read their expressions. Their faces were smooth and unreadable.
"I wish to return to Earth...for good."
***
"Usagi-chan! It's time to get up! You're supposed to go shopping today for Mamoru-san's homecoming gift, remember?" Luna's voice drifted into Usagi's room. "Usagi! Hurry up or you're going to miss out on all the best sales!"
Luna padded down the hallway into Usagi's room wondering what was taking her so long. Yesterday she was so excited to go shopping for Mamoru-san and now she doesn't want to get up? Luna peered around the corner of Usagi's door with large, inquisitive brown eyes.
Usagi was already up and sitting at her table. Her back was to Luna, but Luna could see that she was holding something in her hand. It looked like a photograph with tattered corners, but she couldn't be sure. Luna was about to say her name when she heard Usagi sigh heavily. Her long blonde hair, done up in its usual bun-and-pigtail style, partially covered her face so Luna couldn't see her expression, but she had known Usagi long enough to know when she was crying. Wondering what was troubling this normally carefree girl so much, Luna's questions were answered in a single glance.
It was a photo. But it wasn't of Mamoru-san like she had thought. It was an old magazine clipping of Seiya Kou of Three Lights.
***
Healer walked down the hallway towards Fighter's room, yawning lazily and brushing her silver hair out of her eyes as she went. What in the world has gotten into her? Has Fighter gone mad, wishing to return to Earth for good? What about her duty to protect our princess? Healer shook her head in confusion, her green eyes looking troubled. She knew the reason, the true reason why Fighter wished to return. It was all for that girl, Sailor Moon. Fighter's "Odango" so to speak. Healer wasn't sure what to make of it all. They were on opposite ends of the galaxy. Sailor Moon had her own destiny to fulfill, that much was certain. She is, after all, the Moon Princess, Healer thought glumly. I suppose there is no real way to get out of this other than to let Fighter do as she wishes. Hell, it's her greatest dream. Sighing, Healer stopped at Maker's door and rapped her knuckles softly against the rich cherry wood. As she waited patiently for Maker to answer, a smiling face with a pair of huge blue eyes and long blonde hair tied with a red bow danced in her mind's eye. Smiling, Healer concluded that everyone has dreams, and that each dream is just as important as the next.
***
"Come in." Maker looked up, surprised at Healer's glum expression. Normally she was bright and cheerful, especially these days since peace had returned to the galaxy. "Healer. Something is troubling you. May I be of assistance?" Maker put down the book she had been reading and stood up to place a comforting arm on her friend's shoulders. She didn't need Healer to tell her what she already knew - it was about Fighter wanting to leave Kinmoku for good. Ignoring the open door, she led Healer over to the window ledge, where they could look out over the beautiful aqua-colored meadow dotted with flowers. For a long time the two women sat together, studying the scenery that stretched out before them, like an endless sea. The blades of grass rippled in the afternoon breeze, making it seem as though the entire palace was surrounded by a sea of aqua jade. Unbidden, the image of Ami Mizuno came to mind. It was just for an instant, but it was enough to cause Maker to inhale sharply. Why did I think of that girl? Her violet eyes wide with shock, she was scarcely aware that Healer had placed a hand over her own.
"Maker...you're thinking of them too, aren't you? Those girls that love and protect Sailor Moon." Healer's voice was gentle. A trace of wistfulness was in her eyes as she stared out the window over the rippling meadow. "I wish to see them again too, almost as much as Fighter does." Maker could not muster any sort of response that seemed adequate so she merely bowed her head and nodded silently.
Kakyuu watched the two young women, studying them thoughtfully. Nodding her head, she walked away silently, making no more noise than the gentle spring breeze.
***
Fighter stood out on the balcony off her room, going through the reactions of the others when she finally voiced her greatest wish to them. As expected, they were shocked, but not in the way she had expected them to be. They had always known of Fighter's love for her "Odango" even though she had never told them directly about it. They knew that Fighter would one day wish to return to Earth in order to see her. What they hadn't expected was that Fighter wished to leave planet Kinmoku for good, in order to at least be near Odango.
Fighter gazed down wearily at her hands. It feels like a million years since I have been able to see her last, she thought. I wonder if...she and Mamoru-san are happy together. They must be nearly married by now. Maybe I am just a fool for wanting to leave the planet I have guarded with all my strength for my entire life but...I want to see her. Even if she is with Mamoru-san, I must see her, be near her in some small way. Fighter's eyes were drawn to a couple on the grass below her balcony. They looked blissful; lying there in the soft grass with their arms wrapped one another. "I wonder if...it would be that way with her and me...if it wasn't for the fact that she is with Mamoru-san...I could..." A memory conjured itself in her mind's eye, beginning with a long golden strand that eventually wound itself into a bun...
Seiya is walking alongside Usagi down the street discussing why he wished to continue on with the musical when the director is so hard on him. Seiya stops and turns to face Usagi.
"Tell me Odango...do you have a boyfriend?"
"I do...overseas."
"Hmm. I still have a chance then." Seiya's smiles somewhat coyly at Usagi as he continues to walk past her.
"What?"
Seiya smiles more broadly to himself and continues walking down the road. The image of Usagi grows fainter and fainter as he walks...
Fighter felt her chest tighten and her stomach tie itself in knots. She winced as the familiar burning sensation set her heart aflame and pricked her eyes. "Odango," she whispered. "I wonder if you think of me as much as I think of you."
"Fighter." Fighter did not turn towards the speaker, instead keeping her eyes fixed on the happy couple below, her hands clenched into tight fists, a mechanism to keep herself from feeling the ache full blast. "Fighter...please, look at me." Kakyuu's voice was soft, but firm. Reluctantly Fighter brought her ultramarine eyes to meet her princess' deep bronze ones. "Fighter, this is your greatest wish, is it not? To be near the one you love with every inch of your very being...it is indeed painful when you are separated by a few miles, let alone an entire galaxy." The princess' eyes were faraway, focused on something that only she could see. "I experienced a love like that myself...as you very well know...and even though he is gone, destroyed by the hands of Galaxia, I feel blessed to have been able to experience such a love. I feel content to have been able to be with him for that short time instead of feeling a sense of permanent loss when he died."
"Princess..." Fighter's voice trailed off as she studied the profile of her princess, unsure of what she could possibly say to her, a woman whom she swore to protect with her life. Any words now would be as bitter to swallow as vinegar, no matter how sincere.
"Fighter, what I am saying is this: I want you to go." Kakyuu kept her eyes locked on the distant horizon, her poise as elegant and controlled as ever. "I don't want you to live your life without having the chance to experience that same bliss I was blessed with. Please Fighter," she turned towards her, her eyes wide and her tone reassuring, "Please do not miss out on something you may regret for the rest of your life." Placing gentle hands on both of Fighter's shoulders, the graceful princess looked her straight in the eye. "The three of you must go. You have done more than I could ever have dreamed of for both myself and the rest of the galaxy. Now is your time to achieve your greatest wishes!"
Fighter was speechless. The three of them? A flash of movement in the corner of her eye caught her attention. Looking over the princess' head she saw Healer and Maker approaching, both of them looking excited and worried all at once. Swallowing hard she addressed her friends. "The three of us...?"
Maker smiled and nodded while Healer piped in teasingly "Of course the three of us. Didja think that you were the only one with a dream to fulfill?" Fighter smiled happily at her princess, tears clouding over her beautiful ultramarine eyes.
"Arigato gozaimashita, Princess!"
***
Crown's was crowded for the midday meal as usual. The patrons were happily chatting away and eating their food without a care in the world. In the far corner of the café at a large table were seated four young women. One was elegant-looking and black-haired, with large, exotic, deep purple eyes. She was looking over a magazine with another girl who possessed wavy, nutmeg-brown tresses held back in a ponytail. Her large, dark green eyes darted from one picture to the next in the magazine as she chatted and laughed with her friends. Seated across from the two was a bubbly-looking blonde with long straight hair adorned by a single giant red bow. Her cornflower-blue eyes sparkled with excitement as she showed an ad for a talent contest to a sweet-faced thalo-blue haired girl with lovely eyes that radiated intelligence to match. These four women looked so happy and normal that no one would have guessed they were actually Sailor Senshi.
"Ooooooooo, what about that one!" Rei squealed with excitement so loudly that Makoto winced as she felt her ear drum get blown away. Her long slender finger pointed out a beautiful leather bag with polished brass buckles. "I am positive Mamoru-san would like to have this. It matches his intelligent personality and busy lifestyle perfectly!" Makoto nodded, feeling a headache coming on from Rei's earlier outburst.
"Hai, I think this one will be good for Mamoru-san. Minako-chan, Ami-chan, what do you guys think? Should we get this one for Mamoru-san's homecoming present or keep looking?" Minako and Ami leaned over to see the picture of the briefcase while long drawn-out "Ooooooooo's" escaped their lips.
"I think it's perfect for a student like Mamoru-san," Ami announced. "It will be useful for keeping his papers and important articles organized!" The other three nodded in agreement. At that same moment, they saw three waiters approaching the table with their orders. While Makoto bent down to place the magazine back in her bag, she received a sharp pinch on her arm from Rei.
"Ow!" she exclaimed, coming up from under the table, "What's the big i-"
Rei kicked her ankle underneath the table and whispered hastily in her ear "Oh my god Makoto-chan, look and see how handsome our waiters are!" Makoto barely had time to look up when her eyes met the most gorgeous pair of peridot-colored eyes she had ever seen.
"Your order, miss." There was something familiar about that low, slightly throaty voice that caused her to look more closely at the waiter. His hair was completely hidden by a large chef's hat that nearly fell over his eyes. Likewise, she noticed that the other girls (especially Minako and Rei) were all starry-eyed as they came face to face with their handsome waiters.
Their orders in place, the three men stepped back from the table and bowed. The middle one looked up at the girls, causing them to blush as he looked at each one in turn with his amazing ultramarine eyes. "Is there anything else we can do for you?" His slightly low voice made each girl blush even more furiously as each struggled to keep their poise in the presence of such beautiful men. Ami risked looking up once more at the waiters before saying everything is all right when she met the gaze of the tallest waiter. His wide violet eyes were locked on hers, rendering her speechless for a moment. No...It can't be, she thought. There is no way that it could be him...
"Yaten-kun!" Minako's joyful cry caused heads to whip in the direction of the girls' table. "Yaten-kun! Seiya-kun! Taiki-san! Welcome back!" The others looked hesitant until Seiya looked down at them and winked. Never had there been a more joyous reunion until that moment as the four women and three men embraced.
***
Usagi dropped her bags and headed straight for her bedroom. Arms outstretched, she collapsed onto her wonderfully soft bed. Shopping for four hours was enough to tire anyone out! Not bothering with her new purchases, Usagi immediately walked over to her bookshelf and plucked her favorite comic book from a row. Opening the book in the middle, she plucked out a tattered piece of paper. Familiar ultramarine eyes gazed back into her sapphire ones. Those eyes, that long black hair tapered into a ponytail, that wonderful smile...Usagi's heart ached as she studied his handsome face. Seiya...wherever you are, I hope you are doing well. Her fingers lightly trailed over the picture as crystalline tears formed in the corners of her eyes. "I miss your face," she whispered, trying to fight off the urge to cry. "I even miss the way you used to call me 'Odango', Seiya. I miss your presence!"
Tears flowing freely down her cheek, Usagi lay down on her side, clutching the old magazine clipping to her heart. Inside she was torn. She knew she had her destiny to fulfill; being the Moon Princess and the future Neo- Queen Serenity of 30th Century Crystal Tokyo. Yet inside she somehow felt hollow, as though a huge piece was missing from her life. Things were going well between her and Mamochan but...her thoughts constantly drifted back to Seiya. At first a dull ache would begin in her heart, but she wasn't really sure why. As she held the photo as close to her body as possible, a memory came to mind, completely unbidden...
"Odango!"
"Hmm?"
"I am glad you finally got together with your boyfriend."
"It was because of Seiya that I made it. It was because of you, Seiya, that I could hang in there."
"O-Odango..."
"Hmm?"
"I'll never forget you!"
"Yes! We'll be friends forever!"
"...Oh come on!"
Usagi blushed a bit at the memory, but smiled broadly nonetheless. At the time well...she hadn't quite understood the range of Seiya's emotions for her. She had merely assumed he had only wished to be her closest friend, someone to look out for her while Mamochan was away. When was it that I realized he had been in love with me? Usagi gazed at the picture, studying that handsome face. Why didn't I see it sooner? All those things he did for me...and the way he respected my relationship with Mamochan...he must have loved me very much. I was so bakageta. Tracing the outline of Seiya's face with her fingertip, Usagi felt her heart swell with a very different kind of emotion. It was similar to what she felt for Mamochan, but not quite. It filled her heart to nearly bursting and made her blush.
I've fallen in love with him.
The realization forced her to sit up straight, her heart pounding so hard she was sure it would leap out of her chest at any moment. I love Seiya. I really do love him. I wonder how long I've been pushing these feelings away, stuffing them deep down inside of me because of my predestined devotion to Mamochan. Sighing, Usagi glanced over at her desk to the picture of her and Mamochan. They looked so happy in that picture together. Her heart was being torn between the two men. Maybe I can just ignore my longing for Seiya, she decided. He is, after all, on the other end of the galaxy. I will most likely never see him or Yaten or Taiki ever again. Giving a rueful sigh, she replaced the magazine clipping in her comic book and headed towards the kitchen in order to prepare dinner.
Diiiiiiing-dooooong!
The doorbell sounded, causing Usagi to visibly jump into the air a bit. Checking the clock, she wondered who on earth it could be. She knew the girls were planning on going shopping for Mamochan's homecoming gift this afternoon so it couldn't be for any of them. Shuffling her feet a bit she called out "Hai!" and slowly opened the door. The light was so bright in the hallway that at first she couldn't see anything. Squinting into the light, she shielded her eyes with one hand.
"Hai?"
"Odango!"