Secret Soul
**DISCLAIMER: Sailor Moon and other characters belong to Naoko Takeuchi, Cartoon Network, etc. The ideas (i.e. the slayer, watcher... etc.) of BTVS belong to it's creator Joss Whedon, the WB, etc. None of these characters belong to me. **
Author's Notes: Hi. This is my first fanfic so please bear with me. This is an AU and I portrayed Serena/Sailormoon quite differently than how she originally is. So don't be surprised if you don't see her klutzing out ever now and then. Please send some feedback! and Enjoy reading. :)
Rating: PG-13
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"Begin at the Beginning and when you get to the end stop" -Alice in Wonderland.
Secret Soul
by: Anaika Knight
CHAPTER NINE
"Clank! Clank! Clank!" The sounds of swords clashing filled the room as Serena and Ethan spared against each other in one of the training rooms. The room was brick walled with wood paneled flooring. It was empty except for a few weapons alongside the wall and the two combatants moving around it.
"Advance with your left. Stop using your right." Ethan ordered as he lunged towards her with his sword. Serena easily blocked it as she looked at him with annoyance. Her hair was already falling out of its braid. Sweat glistening off her skin as she stood there eyeing Ethan coldly. Rolling her eyes she quickly switched her sword hands. "Fine, but be careful what you ask for." Serena said as she took her stance with the sword in her left hand. "We'll see." He replied as they began circling each other. Tapping the other's sword every now and then. They kept that pace until Ethan made a move and began his advance.
Serena was ready for him as she blocked his moves while gracefully moving back. Soon they were absorbed in their match that they didn't hold back on their strength. Their swords began to fly everywhere at a fast pace. They advanced each other and began using more than just sword fighting. Serena elusively added some gymnastics as she flipped and kicked Ethan hard. As he stumbled back, Serena took the chance to swipe him effectively off his feet. Ethan fell hard against the floor with his sword only a few inches away from him. Ethan looked up at Serena before his eyes darted towards his sword. In an instant, Ethan reached for his sword but was easily stopped as Serena stepped on his wrist before he could get to it. Ethan looked up at Serena and was now face to face with the end of her blade.
"Smooth move, but do you have to hit me so hard?" Ethan joked as he stared at his newfound friend. It's been a couple of days since she visited the morgue. Two days since she found out her family was still out there somewhere. He had to admit she was becoming more determined in training with him. Just today alone, they've been training for nearly four hours straight. From hand to hand, long bows, and to swords, they've done it. She was still worried for her family and her nightmares from before started again. He recalled her asking him if she could stay with him for a while. Obviously, he said yes. He couldn't leave her alone, not for the world even if it meant he'd gain a new roommate for a while.
"I didn't hit you that hard. It was just a tap." Serena said innocently as pulled her sword back and reached out for his hand. Ethan rolled his eyes as he took her hand and brought himself up to his feet. "So what are we going to do about the people who are in the morgue?" Ethan asked as he grabbed a towel off a nearby chair. Serena followed him with two bottles of water. "We'll have a funeral for them. We'll pretend that they're my family during the mass but they're tombstones-" She hands him a bottle of water. "Will say they're real names. It's the right thing to do. I need whoever took my family to believe I don't know the truth yet." Serena explained as she sat on the mats. Ethan sat down beside her.
"Okay. I'll call and get the preparations taken care of." Ethan looks down at his watch to see it's already 7:00am. "It's getting late. You better get ready for school and I have an early meeting at the firm." Ethan said as he got up and helped Serena to her feet. "Thanks, Eth." Serena said as she hugged Ethan caringly. "Thank you for being so great this couples of days and for letting me stay here with you." Serena said as she stepped back from him. "Don't mention it. Anyway, why don't you go take a shower first and I'll clean up here." Ethan offered as he began to pick up the water bottles and towel. "All right. Thanks again Ethan." Serena said as she started walking out of the room. Ethan continued to clean up the room as he watched her leave. Once she was upstairs, Ethan hurried out of the room and went into his study. Closing the doors behind him, he made his way to his desk. Suddenly a telephone rang. Ethan picked it up and answered it. "Hello?" "Yes, I know it's been nearly 500 years." "I assure you, she'll be ready." Ethan listened closely. "The next full moon?" "I'll be ready. She'll die on the next full moon. That I promise." Ethan vowed before he placed the phone back onto its cradle.
He sat down as his mind began to be consumed with thoughts. "It's been so long. I'll finely get my chance and Serena… I'm sorry for.." Ethan's thoughts were disturbed as he heard his name being called. "Ethan! I'm going now. I'll see you later this afternoon." Serena called from the hallway. Ethan stood up and went to the door. "Okay. I'll see you later, Sere." Ethan called back as he walked into the hallway just in time to see her go. Ethan stared off at the closed door before he finally went up stairs to get ready for his meeting.
***
Darien got up early for his morning jog like he usually did. Yet, he didn't expect this jog to be any different than the other ones but a certain meatball head had to do the unexpected: Be awake at 7:30 in the morning and already on her way to school. As he turned the corner past the park he saw her crossing the street towards him. He watched her walk to him in surprise. Sure, she's done lots of things that surprised him but she never seemed to be to stop amazing him. Darien jogged toward her till she stopped in front of him. "Hey, Darien. Why are you up so early in the morning?" Serena asked kindly. Darien looked down at her and smiled. "I was about to ask you the same thing. Actually, I'm out for my morning jog. I jog every morning and I've never seen you out here before." Darien said curiously.
"Oh, I got up kind of early today and I thought I'd try to get to school on time. So I better get going if I still want to be on time." Serena said simply. Darien nodded. "Later, Darien." Serena said before she walked around Darien and went on her way. Darien looked at her before he jogged up to her again. "Serena, do you mind if I walk you to school?" Darien asked as he started to walk alongside her. Serena looked at him as she felt her eyebrow rise in suspicion. "Okay, but don't you need to get ready for school too?" Serena asked. "Not really. My first class is gym anyway so I don't have to change. Plus, I left my books in my locker so I don't have to go back and get them." Darien explained. Serena nodded before she stared out in front of her.
'Why is he being so nice to me? He has always been mean to me except for when I was the so-called Selene. Does he know about my family? Is it just pity he's showing?' Serena questioned to herself as she kept looking forward as she averted her eyes from him. "Serena, are you trying to avoid me?" Darien asked bluntly. Serena looked at him a bit startled. "I'm not avoiding you. I'm standing right here." She answered dumbly. Darien laughed lightly. "Obviously, but you looked so intent on looking everywhere besides me. I was curious on why." He explained. "I'm sorry if it seemed like I was avoiding you, but I was just wondering why you're actually being nice to me." Serena replied sincerely. Darien grinned. "I realized that if you have the urge to be nice to me, why not do the same? Anyway, you're starting to grow on me." Darien answered truthfully. Serena smiled at him as her face turned slightly red. "I'll take that as a compliment. Thanks." Serena answered. They continued walking as they began talking about small things like school but they're pleasant conversation soon came to a close.
They arrived at school with fifteen minutes left to spare. "Well we're here. Thanks for walking with me. I should go find the girls. They'll probably faint at the sight of me early." Serena joked as they stopped at the steps of the school. "Yeah, I guess you should. See ya later, meatball head." Darien responded with a smile. "I'll let that one pass this time, but don't do it again." Serena said happily. Darien nodded as they walked up to the doors of the school. "Bye, Dare." Serena said before she began to walk down the hall. Darien stood there in a stupor as her words rang through his ears. 'Dare?' He kept thinking about it. Where did he hear that before? Suddenly, as if a light bulb just clicked in his mind. He remember that Selene, the mysterious woman called him that before she left on her bike. It sounded so familiar, yet how could Serena and Selene be the same person. True, their names were near the same but their hair and eyes were completely different. Plus, Serena doesn't even own a motorcycle and she has never even raised a hand at someone, let alone fought with someone. Darien kept thinking about it as he made his way towards the locker room. "But then again, I know nothing about Serena." Darien thought some more. "Maybe it's time I started getting to know her." Darien said to himself as his mind started contemplating ways on how to spend more time with a certain Meatball Head.
***
Two days later, Serena held a funeral for her family, well the people that looked like her family anyway. It was a decent funeral, her family and friends came, and each giving her a show of support. Though her family wasn't actually dead, as far as she knew, she was at least content to know that they were there for her. Ethan stayed by her side the whole time. Giving her comfort and helping her, as she had to lie to her friends about her family's demise. There was also Darien, he has been so nice and she couldn't believe that he was the same person. It was as if he had a total change of heart towards her. At times, even now, with him only a few feet away she couldn't help but wonder what was his ulterior motive. Was it sympathy? Did he suspect her of being Selene? She really didn't know, but she didn't have enough time to worry about that right now. After the ceremony, Ethan and she went alone to the cemetery where they buried the bodies. Everyone else went to her home during that time. She felt remorse for not having the real families there to bury them and say goodbye, but she had to do this if only to save her family. A tear fell down her face for each of them as she placed a rose on their graves before she left with Ethan back to her house.
When they arrived, her family and friends warmly greeted them. She greeted everyone and encouraged him or her to eat and talk. Soon everyone was mingling, eating, and crying as well. Serena watched everyone with a heavy heart. Everyone in her house was grieving for her family and she didn't even know if they were even alive. It only heightened her worry and desire to find them, but how was she going to do that? Serena was in deep thought that she didn't realize Ethan was standing beside her with his arm over her shoulders. "Sere, are you alright?" Ethan whispered as he leaned toward her. Serena nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine. I was just thinking about my family. I hope they're all right. I really don't want to do this for real." Serena replied as she leaned into his hold. "Don't worry we'll find them. Now why don't we go get something to drink? You haven't had anything all day." Ethan offered as he led her to the kitchen.
Elsewhere in the room, the girls watched in sympathy and curiosity towards their friend. "Who is that guy hanging around Serena?" Raye asked as she stood with the girls and Darien in the corner of the room. "That's the guy who walked with her to the arcade before. He's cute." "Mina!" Everyone cried. Mina just shrugged. "If that is true. Why is he here? Maybe he's a friend of the family. They do seem pretty close." Amy said as she watched Serena and her friend walking back into the room. "Maybe that's her boyfriend." Lita offered. The girls nodded but Darien scowled. "I don't think so. I've been talking to her lately and she never mentioned having a boyfriend. She did mention having him as a close friend though. Anyway, we're talking about Serena. She could never have a boyfriend. No one would dare date her." Darien replied spitefully. "Except for-" He thought to himself before he heard a familiar voice invade his thoughts.
"I thought you were beginning to change. That you actually liked me as a friend. I guess I was wrong huh?" Serena stated disappointedly as her eyes gazed at him sadly. Darien felt horrible. He didn't mean for her to hear that especially since it was a complete lie. Anyone with their right mind would date her. She was kind, sweet, and she was intriguing in every way. It's just he never noticed it before, but in just one day of spending time with her. He knew she wasn't just some immature klutz that he pegged her out to be. They went to the park and they talked for such a long time about school, family, and he even told her about his feelings towards his parents. He never was so open before, but now he probably ruined it now. Especially when he was beginning to enjoy her friendship.
"Serena, I didn't mean what I said. I was just being a jerk. I'm sorry. You have to believe me." Darien pleaded as he looked at her hopefully. Serena looked up at him and she could see the sincerity in his eyes. She thought for a second about staying mad at him but, in truth, he's insulted her enough times that it kind of rolls off you in seconds. She just became used to it. Yet, it hurt more than before. Probably because she had seen how caring he was to her when she was Selene and how sweet he had been the other day while they were at the park. Sure he still called her Meatball Head, but this hurt more. Though she didn't really know why, except that he was starting to be her friend and that meant something to her.
"I forgive you, Darien. Just tell me why. Why do you still have to say things like that about me? I'm not that bad am I?" Serena stared at him pleadingly, asking for him to prove her wrong, but she couldn't stay long enough to know the answer. "I'm sorry, I have to go see my aunt. I'll see you guys later. Bye, Dare." Serena said softly before she turned and quietly walked out of the room. Darien stood there as he thought about her. She was something else. Her voice alone held so much maturity that he couldn't believe sometimes that she was the same crybaby he met a couple of years ago. In the back of his mind, he kept wondering if she was the one, the mysterious woman from before. If only, she didn't have blond hair but silver, then he'd know. Darien stayed that way for a while until he was interrupted only a second or so later.
"I can't believe you, Darien. Do you have to make fun of her especially today?" Mina tossed at him madly. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean it. It's just the idea of Ethan being her boyfriend just-" "makes you jealous." A confident voice said from behind him. Darien quickly turned around to see Ethan walking straight towards him. "I heard what you said about Serena. You know, with friends like you who needs enemies." Ethan said snidely. Darien stared at him angrily. "What the hell would you know? You've been here, what, only a week. You don't know a single thing about me and I hardly believe you know anything about Serena." Darien said forcefully as he took a step towards Ethan.
"I know more than you know. She's my frien.. my girlfriend and I won't leave her even if I have to face off with you every single day." Ethan took the final step and stood face to face with Darien. "But if you hurt her in any way. I promise, you'll wish you never met me." Ethan replied passionately before he left Darien steaming from head to toe. "I don't believe him. Who does he think he is!" Darien said angrily as the girls crowded around him. "A person you really don't want to fight with, especially since all he is doing is looking out for Serena, his girlfriend." Mina stated truthfully as she stressed out the last word. Darien couldn't believe that Serena would date a guy like him and why didn't she tell him. Who are you kidding, Darien. You only spent time with her for one day and I don't think she would tell you something as personal as that. Darien told himself as he began to simmer down once he realized the protectiveness Ethan had for her. For that, he respected him but that's as far as his respect went for the arrogant jerk. Darien thought before a beeping noise surrounded them.
****
"You told him what?!" Serena nearly screamed as she started to pace in her bedroom after Ethan finished explaining his little encounter with Darien. "I'm sorry, but he insulted you. Where I come from, it's my duty to step in-" "And tell him I'm your girlfriend!" Serena filled in hotly. "Yes!" Ethan collapsed on her bed in frustration. "How can you like him? I don't get it, you deserve better." Ethan stated compassionately. Serena looked at him sternly but it soon faded away as she smiled at him caringly. "I know and I don't like him. He's just a potential friend." Serena looked at him intently. "Thank you for being here with me." Serena walks up to him and stands in the middle of him as she lifts up his face so he would face her. "You're my knight in shining armor, you know that." Serena said as she leaned down and kissed is forehead. Serena stared into Ethan's eyes and was saddened. As she stared deeply into his eyes she could see emotions swimming in pools of green: sadness, longing, and love. She didn't know what to make out of it but she knew she wanted him to be happy instead. He was the one who deserved better, not her.
"Serena?" Mina's voice called from the other side of the door. Serena stepped back from Ethan but she grabbed onto his hand as she answered back to her friend. "I'm coming." Serena replied as she turned back to Ethan. "Come with me?" Serena looked at him hopefully. "I have one more thing to do before the day is through." Serena said mysteriously with a smile. Ethan couldn't help but smile back as he joined her before they walked out of the room.
***
"Scouts! Hurry to the pier. There's a griffon attacking the people." Luna announced through the communicator. The girls and Darien agreed before they moved away from their small corner of the room. "We better hurry. Mina, why don't you tell Serena we're leaving." Raye instructed as they began to head to the door. Mina nodded and went upstairs toward Serena's room.
"Are you leaving already?" Serena said as she walked into the main foyer with Mina and Ethan beside her. Mina walked up and grabbed her coat with the rest of the girls as they stood by the door. Raye nodded as she signaled the others to start leaving. "Yeah. I'm sorry Serena, but we'll be back. It's just we promised my grandfather to pick up some deliveries for the temple." Raye lied. Serena nodded simply. "Okay. Thank you for coming. I really appreciate it." Serena thanked her before Raye hurried out to the car with the others. "Let's go. Darien, hurry to the pier." Raye ordered as they all jumped into the car and sped towards the scene.
A block away, you could see the crowd already fleeing. Darien quickly parked as everyone piled out of the car. "Hurry." Darien said as he pulled out a rose from his jacket and transformed into Tuxedo Mask. The scouts followed in suit.
"Venus Star Power!"
"Mars Star Power!"
"Jupiter Star Power!"
"Mercury Star Power!"
A bright light surrounded the scouts as their sailor uniforms replaced their normal clothes. After their transformation, they ran to face something they didn't quite expect.
***
"Grr.." The griffon lashed out at whatever was in its way. "Mars fireballs charge!" "Venus Crescent Beam Smash!" The griffon stopped attack and moved to see the Scout's attacks coming right for him. "A monstrous cry filled the air. "Bulls-eye." Mars exclaimed but was cut short when the griffon fought back with a fireball of its own. The Scouts scattered, dodging the fire. "My turn. Jupiter Thunder Clasps Crash!" Bolts of lightning attacked the griffon but it only phased him for a moment. "Again!" Darien cried as he hurried in bringing the innocent people out of harms way.
The Scouts called upon all their powers and fired in unison. The griffon screamed in pain as a dark light surrounded it. When it disappeared, a big gray wolf stood in its place as a man in a gray uniform with long brown hair floated above it. "Where is the silver haired fighter? I want her and her friend here or I'll send my youma into the business district." He stated determinedly. The Scouts looked at him passively. "We don't know whom you're talking about. Who are you?" Venus called out as she took a fighting stance. The man laughed lightly. "I'm Nephlite, commanding officer in the Queen's ranks. You have five minutes to produce my warrior or I'll start sending more than this youma." Nephlite repeated his threat as he disappeared into thin air.
The youma, in its wolf form, let out a thundering howl before it began running straight towards Darien who was standing off a distance away from the scouts. "No!" The Scouts yelled as they saw the animal jump, ready to bite and attack their Prince. Darien brought his cane in front of him ready to fight the wolf. He watched it jump towards him as he braced himself for the attack but suddenly a petite body stood directly in front of him with a long staff in her hands. He couldn't see the person's face but the long silver braid told him everything. It was her again. As he realized what she was doing, anger rose in him. "What are you doing?" Darien scolded as he brought his cane and began to help her push the wolf away. With both their strengths they pushed it to the ground. "Protecting you, what does it look like?" She snapped back as she positioned the staff into a fighting position. "It's looks like you're trying to get yourself killed or is this just a plot to get me to lower my defenses?" He accused as he remembers what Nephlite said. 'My warrior.'
He couldn't trust her, no matter how much his gut told him to. The Negaverse was getting desperate and they'd try anything to get to them even by using her. It wasn't safe to trust her, not yet anyways. "What! You think I'm with the Negaverse! You've got to be kidding me." Serena looked away from Darien in anger as she focused on the wolf that was starting to come towards them again. "I don't have time for this." Serena finished as she went towards the wolf while Darien and the Scouts stood where they were.
Darien watched as the wolf and Serena went straight for each other. He felt compelled to help her but in an instant the most amazing thing or probably the most suspicious thing happened. Only a couple of feet from Serena, the wolf stopped and held its place as it stayed still. Bewildered, Darien watched the wolf close and noticed its eyes were directly on her. Why? What power does she have over it? Is she the one who sent it? Darien questioned as he stepped away from her. He could hear the Scouts coming up behind him as they watched the wolf make its way towards the girl as if it were a faithful pet. They stood there in wonderment until a cocky voice filled the air. "I knew you couldn't stay away! So where's you're friend. Is he going to save you again?" Nephlite asked mockingly as he floated closer to her. Serena looked up at him icily. "Not this time." Serena looked towards the Scouts. "I think you might want to powers, right about now!" Serena said strongly as she glanced over at Nephlite. The Scouts agreed as they each began to attack Nephilte. Their attacks didn't harm him but it did force him to disappear again and that's all Serena needed right now.
***
'They stood there watching me in amazement once Nephlite disappeared. If only they knew how amazed I was at this moment. I was on my way to the cemetery with Ethan for our first official patrolling together when I saw the people running. I told him to go on a head to the cemetery while I checked out what was at the pier. He reluctantly agreed and went off in the other direction while I made my way to the youma. When I arrived, I saw Darien dressed up as Tuxedo Mask. He was about to be pounced on, so I did the brave thing and stepped in between them. The wolf is already in midair when our eyes connect for an instant. It stayed there until Darien helped me push it hard to the ground. Then what does he do? He accuses me of working for the Negaverse. The nerve of him, if he only knew the truth.' I thought as I tightened my grip on the staff in my hands. The wolf now was slowly walking towards me as if it was transfixed only on me. Its face softened as I stared into its eyes again.
Suddenly as I stared at it, visions appeared in my mind as I watched Nephlite and Jedite, the general from before, capture a little boy and a golden retriever. I saw them transformed them into the griffon/wolf. Images of the boy and his family filled her mind along with images of him and his dog. Then in an instant she remembered who he was. 'John?' She said in her mind as she watched the wolf slowly and cautiously walk towards her. "It can't be... What did they do to you?" Serena whispered as she kneeled down and reached out for him. "Can you hear me John?" Serena asked as she wondered on how cruel these people were to turn a poor innocent boy into an evil monster. A hideous pain filled her as she felt his fear and his remorse for what he did to the people on the pier. Serena could feel his presence but it was still hidden under the Negaverse's powers. Serena stayed focus on him till she threw her attention towards the Scouts, a little too late.
***
"Let's get rid of the youma while she has it distracted before she gets hurt." Mars stated. The others agreed. "Jupiter Thunder Claps Crash!" "Venus Crescent Beam Smash!" "Mercury Bubbles Blast!" "Mars Celestial Surround!" The Scouts commanded as their attacks ripped straight towards the youma.
Serena heard them call out their attacks and fear filled her eyes as she saw it coming for him. "No!!! John! Stop, please. He's human, don't!" Serena cried helplessly since their attacks were already coming towards him. On pure instinct, Serena jumped up to her feet and stood in between 'John' and the Scouts' attacks. "God, help me." Serena prayed as she closed her eyes and focused her energy on protecting 'John' from being harmed.
The Scouts and Darien watched in horror as they saw the girl take in the full impact of all four attacks. "Oh my gosh!" Amy gasped out loud. "Selene!" Darien cried as he tried to make his way towards her but was stopped as the Scouts held him back. "We have to help her." Darien stated passionately. "It's too late. No human could survive that." Mars voice said filled with grief and remorse as she watched one by one, each attack, hit her small body. Darien stood there stunned; she risked her life to save a youma.. A human she said. How does she know? Darien questioned as the residue from the attacks soon disappeared into the night leaving a small body kneeling on the floor.
As the dust disappeared the Scouts looked on to see Selene on her knees as a faint silver glow surrounded her slightly as it engulfed the youma. Gasps escaped the Scouts' lips as they Selene looking straight at them with blood and burnt marks all over her body. Her clothes were scorched and black while tints of blood stained her once white skin. The silver glow pulsated around her as the most severe burns began to disappear from her skin. They watched in awe as the silver glow began to leave her and surround the youma fully. A bright flash burst into the air as the silver disappeared. Now all that was left, was a still bruised and battered girl with a full healthy youma.
Darien felt water form in his eyes as he stared at this painful sight. The youma saved her with its powers. Why? What is she to him? She has to be part of the Nevgaverse. Why else would they try to save each other? Darien thought to himself as he slowly walked towards her. "We have to get you some help. Come with-" Darien was cut off short when the wolf jumped in between them, teeth fully exposed. The youma growled in defense, protecting the one that protected him. Darien back up but it still stood there. "What do we do? She needs help.. because of us. We attacked an innocent person." Mars cried out regretfully. "It's not our fault it was an accident. So lets-" Amy stopped in surprise as she watched Selene begin to stand slowly onto her own two feet. The Scouts watched as she brought herself to her full height on her weak legs. She stared at them in comfort and understanding.
"It's not your fault. I took the risk to save him. He's my responsibility." She explained sincerely as she wiped the blood from the side of her lip. The youma stood in front of her, still in its protective position. "He won't hurt anyone anymore. He knows the truth now. We better go." She finished mysteriously before she turned and slowly began to walk away. "Wait! Who are you? Are you an ally?" Darien asked desperately, wanting to finally know the truth. Serena turned her face towards him. "I don't know who I am. I am just here and I am on my side not yours or the Negaverse." She signaled 'John' to her. He willingly came to her side. "Be careful whom you fight. The Negaverse is using humans as youmas. You don't want to be responsible for the death of an innocent life. I can't jump in front of every youma." She said as she looked down at 'John'.
Her eyes started to glow metallic silver as a silver essence surrounded John enabling him to turn back into his griffon state. John now stood ten feet tall with full size wings on the sides of his lion body and falcon head. The Scouts stayed still as they watched the griffon bend down low enough for her to easily climb onto its back. Serena faced them one last time as she smiled to them comfortingly. "Later, Scouts." She looked at Darien personally. "Later, Dare. By the way, you're welcome." Serena said as she winced in between from the pain in her body. Serena looked down at where her hand was holding her side. Blood was seeping through her clothes.
"John. Take me out of her, please." Serena whispered close to the griffon's ear. John moved its head up and down. Soon, Serena became amazed as she felt the wind brush up against her. She winced at the feel of it but she held it in as she saw the lights of the city below her. "Go to the cemetery. We'll find a friend there." Serena said softly as she leaned close onto his back as she found herself loosing consciousness amongst his feathers and fur.
***
Darien watched her in awe as he saw her being carried off by a youma. It was something he never thought he'd see but he did. She was amazing and now was a bigger mystery then before, but there was something he was sure about now. After all the contemplating and all the questions he knew who she really was. Who else would call him Dare? Especially in the same tone of voice... as Serena Tuskino.
'Scouts... I think I know who Selene really is. Its Serena." Darien said faintly still unsure if he was right as he heard the gasps from his friends. "That's absurd. Serena is totally different from Selene. It can't be. Anyway, it seems the Negaverse knows Selene pretty well. She could be evil. Serena doesn't even have an evil, let alone, fighting bone in her body. How can you be so sure? " Raye asked as she de-transformed with the other scouts. Darien looked at her. "That's the thing, I'm not sure. I'm just going with my gut feeling. That's why we need to find out. Soon before the Negaverse gets to her first."
***
TBC.. so what do you think? Please send some feedback.. thanks. Dasvidanya!
**DISCLAIMER: Sailor Moon and other characters belong to Naoko Takeuchi, Cartoon Network, etc. The ideas (i.e. the slayer, watcher... etc.) of BTVS belong to it's creator Joss Whedon, the WB, etc. None of these characters belong to me. **
Author's Notes: Hi. This is my first fanfic so please bear with me. This is an AU and I portrayed Serena/Sailormoon quite differently than how she originally is. So don't be surprised if you don't see her klutzing out ever now and then. Please send some feedback! and Enjoy reading. :)
Rating: PG-13
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"Begin at the Beginning and when you get to the end stop" -Alice in Wonderland.
Secret Soul
by: Anaika Knight
CHAPTER NINE
"Clank! Clank! Clank!" The sounds of swords clashing filled the room as Serena and Ethan spared against each other in one of the training rooms. The room was brick walled with wood paneled flooring. It was empty except for a few weapons alongside the wall and the two combatants moving around it.
"Advance with your left. Stop using your right." Ethan ordered as he lunged towards her with his sword. Serena easily blocked it as she looked at him with annoyance. Her hair was already falling out of its braid. Sweat glistening off her skin as she stood there eyeing Ethan coldly. Rolling her eyes she quickly switched her sword hands. "Fine, but be careful what you ask for." Serena said as she took her stance with the sword in her left hand. "We'll see." He replied as they began circling each other. Tapping the other's sword every now and then. They kept that pace until Ethan made a move and began his advance.
Serena was ready for him as she blocked his moves while gracefully moving back. Soon they were absorbed in their match that they didn't hold back on their strength. Their swords began to fly everywhere at a fast pace. They advanced each other and began using more than just sword fighting. Serena elusively added some gymnastics as she flipped and kicked Ethan hard. As he stumbled back, Serena took the chance to swipe him effectively off his feet. Ethan fell hard against the floor with his sword only a few inches away from him. Ethan looked up at Serena before his eyes darted towards his sword. In an instant, Ethan reached for his sword but was easily stopped as Serena stepped on his wrist before he could get to it. Ethan looked up at Serena and was now face to face with the end of her blade.
"Smooth move, but do you have to hit me so hard?" Ethan joked as he stared at his newfound friend. It's been a couple of days since she visited the morgue. Two days since she found out her family was still out there somewhere. He had to admit she was becoming more determined in training with him. Just today alone, they've been training for nearly four hours straight. From hand to hand, long bows, and to swords, they've done it. She was still worried for her family and her nightmares from before started again. He recalled her asking him if she could stay with him for a while. Obviously, he said yes. He couldn't leave her alone, not for the world even if it meant he'd gain a new roommate for a while.
"I didn't hit you that hard. It was just a tap." Serena said innocently as pulled her sword back and reached out for his hand. Ethan rolled his eyes as he took her hand and brought himself up to his feet. "So what are we going to do about the people who are in the morgue?" Ethan asked as he grabbed a towel off a nearby chair. Serena followed him with two bottles of water. "We'll have a funeral for them. We'll pretend that they're my family during the mass but they're tombstones-" She hands him a bottle of water. "Will say they're real names. It's the right thing to do. I need whoever took my family to believe I don't know the truth yet." Serena explained as she sat on the mats. Ethan sat down beside her.
"Okay. I'll call and get the preparations taken care of." Ethan looks down at his watch to see it's already 7:00am. "It's getting late. You better get ready for school and I have an early meeting at the firm." Ethan said as he got up and helped Serena to her feet. "Thanks, Eth." Serena said as she hugged Ethan caringly. "Thank you for being so great this couples of days and for letting me stay here with you." Serena said as she stepped back from him. "Don't mention it. Anyway, why don't you go take a shower first and I'll clean up here." Ethan offered as he began to pick up the water bottles and towel. "All right. Thanks again Ethan." Serena said as she started walking out of the room. Ethan continued to clean up the room as he watched her leave. Once she was upstairs, Ethan hurried out of the room and went into his study. Closing the doors behind him, he made his way to his desk. Suddenly a telephone rang. Ethan picked it up and answered it. "Hello?" "Yes, I know it's been nearly 500 years." "I assure you, she'll be ready." Ethan listened closely. "The next full moon?" "I'll be ready. She'll die on the next full moon. That I promise." Ethan vowed before he placed the phone back onto its cradle.
He sat down as his mind began to be consumed with thoughts. "It's been so long. I'll finely get my chance and Serena… I'm sorry for.." Ethan's thoughts were disturbed as he heard his name being called. "Ethan! I'm going now. I'll see you later this afternoon." Serena called from the hallway. Ethan stood up and went to the door. "Okay. I'll see you later, Sere." Ethan called back as he walked into the hallway just in time to see her go. Ethan stared off at the closed door before he finally went up stairs to get ready for his meeting.
***
Darien got up early for his morning jog like he usually did. Yet, he didn't expect this jog to be any different than the other ones but a certain meatball head had to do the unexpected: Be awake at 7:30 in the morning and already on her way to school. As he turned the corner past the park he saw her crossing the street towards him. He watched her walk to him in surprise. Sure, she's done lots of things that surprised him but she never seemed to be to stop amazing him. Darien jogged toward her till she stopped in front of him. "Hey, Darien. Why are you up so early in the morning?" Serena asked kindly. Darien looked down at her and smiled. "I was about to ask you the same thing. Actually, I'm out for my morning jog. I jog every morning and I've never seen you out here before." Darien said curiously.
"Oh, I got up kind of early today and I thought I'd try to get to school on time. So I better get going if I still want to be on time." Serena said simply. Darien nodded. "Later, Darien." Serena said before she walked around Darien and went on her way. Darien looked at her before he jogged up to her again. "Serena, do you mind if I walk you to school?" Darien asked as he started to walk alongside her. Serena looked at him as she felt her eyebrow rise in suspicion. "Okay, but don't you need to get ready for school too?" Serena asked. "Not really. My first class is gym anyway so I don't have to change. Plus, I left my books in my locker so I don't have to go back and get them." Darien explained. Serena nodded before she stared out in front of her.
'Why is he being so nice to me? He has always been mean to me except for when I was the so-called Selene. Does he know about my family? Is it just pity he's showing?' Serena questioned to herself as she kept looking forward as she averted her eyes from him. "Serena, are you trying to avoid me?" Darien asked bluntly. Serena looked at him a bit startled. "I'm not avoiding you. I'm standing right here." She answered dumbly. Darien laughed lightly. "Obviously, but you looked so intent on looking everywhere besides me. I was curious on why." He explained. "I'm sorry if it seemed like I was avoiding you, but I was just wondering why you're actually being nice to me." Serena replied sincerely. Darien grinned. "I realized that if you have the urge to be nice to me, why not do the same? Anyway, you're starting to grow on me." Darien answered truthfully. Serena smiled at him as her face turned slightly red. "I'll take that as a compliment. Thanks." Serena answered. They continued walking as they began talking about small things like school but they're pleasant conversation soon came to a close.
They arrived at school with fifteen minutes left to spare. "Well we're here. Thanks for walking with me. I should go find the girls. They'll probably faint at the sight of me early." Serena joked as they stopped at the steps of the school. "Yeah, I guess you should. See ya later, meatball head." Darien responded with a smile. "I'll let that one pass this time, but don't do it again." Serena said happily. Darien nodded as they walked up to the doors of the school. "Bye, Dare." Serena said before she began to walk down the hall. Darien stood there in a stupor as her words rang through his ears. 'Dare?' He kept thinking about it. Where did he hear that before? Suddenly, as if a light bulb just clicked in his mind. He remember that Selene, the mysterious woman called him that before she left on her bike. It sounded so familiar, yet how could Serena and Selene be the same person. True, their names were near the same but their hair and eyes were completely different. Plus, Serena doesn't even own a motorcycle and she has never even raised a hand at someone, let alone fought with someone. Darien kept thinking about it as he made his way towards the locker room. "But then again, I know nothing about Serena." Darien thought some more. "Maybe it's time I started getting to know her." Darien said to himself as his mind started contemplating ways on how to spend more time with a certain Meatball Head.
***
Two days later, Serena held a funeral for her family, well the people that looked like her family anyway. It was a decent funeral, her family and friends came, and each giving her a show of support. Though her family wasn't actually dead, as far as she knew, she was at least content to know that they were there for her. Ethan stayed by her side the whole time. Giving her comfort and helping her, as she had to lie to her friends about her family's demise. There was also Darien, he has been so nice and she couldn't believe that he was the same person. It was as if he had a total change of heart towards her. At times, even now, with him only a few feet away she couldn't help but wonder what was his ulterior motive. Was it sympathy? Did he suspect her of being Selene? She really didn't know, but she didn't have enough time to worry about that right now. After the ceremony, Ethan and she went alone to the cemetery where they buried the bodies. Everyone else went to her home during that time. She felt remorse for not having the real families there to bury them and say goodbye, but she had to do this if only to save her family. A tear fell down her face for each of them as she placed a rose on their graves before she left with Ethan back to her house.
When they arrived, her family and friends warmly greeted them. She greeted everyone and encouraged him or her to eat and talk. Soon everyone was mingling, eating, and crying as well. Serena watched everyone with a heavy heart. Everyone in her house was grieving for her family and she didn't even know if they were even alive. It only heightened her worry and desire to find them, but how was she going to do that? Serena was in deep thought that she didn't realize Ethan was standing beside her with his arm over her shoulders. "Sere, are you alright?" Ethan whispered as he leaned toward her. Serena nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine. I was just thinking about my family. I hope they're all right. I really don't want to do this for real." Serena replied as she leaned into his hold. "Don't worry we'll find them. Now why don't we go get something to drink? You haven't had anything all day." Ethan offered as he led her to the kitchen.
Elsewhere in the room, the girls watched in sympathy and curiosity towards their friend. "Who is that guy hanging around Serena?" Raye asked as she stood with the girls and Darien in the corner of the room. "That's the guy who walked with her to the arcade before. He's cute." "Mina!" Everyone cried. Mina just shrugged. "If that is true. Why is he here? Maybe he's a friend of the family. They do seem pretty close." Amy said as she watched Serena and her friend walking back into the room. "Maybe that's her boyfriend." Lita offered. The girls nodded but Darien scowled. "I don't think so. I've been talking to her lately and she never mentioned having a boyfriend. She did mention having him as a close friend though. Anyway, we're talking about Serena. She could never have a boyfriend. No one would dare date her." Darien replied spitefully. "Except for-" He thought to himself before he heard a familiar voice invade his thoughts.
"I thought you were beginning to change. That you actually liked me as a friend. I guess I was wrong huh?" Serena stated disappointedly as her eyes gazed at him sadly. Darien felt horrible. He didn't mean for her to hear that especially since it was a complete lie. Anyone with their right mind would date her. She was kind, sweet, and she was intriguing in every way. It's just he never noticed it before, but in just one day of spending time with her. He knew she wasn't just some immature klutz that he pegged her out to be. They went to the park and they talked for such a long time about school, family, and he even told her about his feelings towards his parents. He never was so open before, but now he probably ruined it now. Especially when he was beginning to enjoy her friendship.
"Serena, I didn't mean what I said. I was just being a jerk. I'm sorry. You have to believe me." Darien pleaded as he looked at her hopefully. Serena looked up at him and she could see the sincerity in his eyes. She thought for a second about staying mad at him but, in truth, he's insulted her enough times that it kind of rolls off you in seconds. She just became used to it. Yet, it hurt more than before. Probably because she had seen how caring he was to her when she was Selene and how sweet he had been the other day while they were at the park. Sure he still called her Meatball Head, but this hurt more. Though she didn't really know why, except that he was starting to be her friend and that meant something to her.
"I forgive you, Darien. Just tell me why. Why do you still have to say things like that about me? I'm not that bad am I?" Serena stared at him pleadingly, asking for him to prove her wrong, but she couldn't stay long enough to know the answer. "I'm sorry, I have to go see my aunt. I'll see you guys later. Bye, Dare." Serena said softly before she turned and quietly walked out of the room. Darien stood there as he thought about her. She was something else. Her voice alone held so much maturity that he couldn't believe sometimes that she was the same crybaby he met a couple of years ago. In the back of his mind, he kept wondering if she was the one, the mysterious woman from before. If only, she didn't have blond hair but silver, then he'd know. Darien stayed that way for a while until he was interrupted only a second or so later.
"I can't believe you, Darien. Do you have to make fun of her especially today?" Mina tossed at him madly. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean it. It's just the idea of Ethan being her boyfriend just-" "makes you jealous." A confident voice said from behind him. Darien quickly turned around to see Ethan walking straight towards him. "I heard what you said about Serena. You know, with friends like you who needs enemies." Ethan said snidely. Darien stared at him angrily. "What the hell would you know? You've been here, what, only a week. You don't know a single thing about me and I hardly believe you know anything about Serena." Darien said forcefully as he took a step towards Ethan.
"I know more than you know. She's my frien.. my girlfriend and I won't leave her even if I have to face off with you every single day." Ethan took the final step and stood face to face with Darien. "But if you hurt her in any way. I promise, you'll wish you never met me." Ethan replied passionately before he left Darien steaming from head to toe. "I don't believe him. Who does he think he is!" Darien said angrily as the girls crowded around him. "A person you really don't want to fight with, especially since all he is doing is looking out for Serena, his girlfriend." Mina stated truthfully as she stressed out the last word. Darien couldn't believe that Serena would date a guy like him and why didn't she tell him. Who are you kidding, Darien. You only spent time with her for one day and I don't think she would tell you something as personal as that. Darien told himself as he began to simmer down once he realized the protectiveness Ethan had for her. For that, he respected him but that's as far as his respect went for the arrogant jerk. Darien thought before a beeping noise surrounded them.
****
"You told him what?!" Serena nearly screamed as she started to pace in her bedroom after Ethan finished explaining his little encounter with Darien. "I'm sorry, but he insulted you. Where I come from, it's my duty to step in-" "And tell him I'm your girlfriend!" Serena filled in hotly. "Yes!" Ethan collapsed on her bed in frustration. "How can you like him? I don't get it, you deserve better." Ethan stated compassionately. Serena looked at him sternly but it soon faded away as she smiled at him caringly. "I know and I don't like him. He's just a potential friend." Serena looked at him intently. "Thank you for being here with me." Serena walks up to him and stands in the middle of him as she lifts up his face so he would face her. "You're my knight in shining armor, you know that." Serena said as she leaned down and kissed is forehead. Serena stared into Ethan's eyes and was saddened. As she stared deeply into his eyes she could see emotions swimming in pools of green: sadness, longing, and love. She didn't know what to make out of it but she knew she wanted him to be happy instead. He was the one who deserved better, not her.
"Serena?" Mina's voice called from the other side of the door. Serena stepped back from Ethan but she grabbed onto his hand as she answered back to her friend. "I'm coming." Serena replied as she turned back to Ethan. "Come with me?" Serena looked at him hopefully. "I have one more thing to do before the day is through." Serena said mysteriously with a smile. Ethan couldn't help but smile back as he joined her before they walked out of the room.
***
"Scouts! Hurry to the pier. There's a griffon attacking the people." Luna announced through the communicator. The girls and Darien agreed before they moved away from their small corner of the room. "We better hurry. Mina, why don't you tell Serena we're leaving." Raye instructed as they began to head to the door. Mina nodded and went upstairs toward Serena's room.
"Are you leaving already?" Serena said as she walked into the main foyer with Mina and Ethan beside her. Mina walked up and grabbed her coat with the rest of the girls as they stood by the door. Raye nodded as she signaled the others to start leaving. "Yeah. I'm sorry Serena, but we'll be back. It's just we promised my grandfather to pick up some deliveries for the temple." Raye lied. Serena nodded simply. "Okay. Thank you for coming. I really appreciate it." Serena thanked her before Raye hurried out to the car with the others. "Let's go. Darien, hurry to the pier." Raye ordered as they all jumped into the car and sped towards the scene.
A block away, you could see the crowd already fleeing. Darien quickly parked as everyone piled out of the car. "Hurry." Darien said as he pulled out a rose from his jacket and transformed into Tuxedo Mask. The scouts followed in suit.
"Venus Star Power!"
"Mars Star Power!"
"Jupiter Star Power!"
"Mercury Star Power!"
A bright light surrounded the scouts as their sailor uniforms replaced their normal clothes. After their transformation, they ran to face something they didn't quite expect.
***
"Grr.." The griffon lashed out at whatever was in its way. "Mars fireballs charge!" "Venus Crescent Beam Smash!" The griffon stopped attack and moved to see the Scout's attacks coming right for him. "A monstrous cry filled the air. "Bulls-eye." Mars exclaimed but was cut short when the griffon fought back with a fireball of its own. The Scouts scattered, dodging the fire. "My turn. Jupiter Thunder Clasps Crash!" Bolts of lightning attacked the griffon but it only phased him for a moment. "Again!" Darien cried as he hurried in bringing the innocent people out of harms way.
The Scouts called upon all their powers and fired in unison. The griffon screamed in pain as a dark light surrounded it. When it disappeared, a big gray wolf stood in its place as a man in a gray uniform with long brown hair floated above it. "Where is the silver haired fighter? I want her and her friend here or I'll send my youma into the business district." He stated determinedly. The Scouts looked at him passively. "We don't know whom you're talking about. Who are you?" Venus called out as she took a fighting stance. The man laughed lightly. "I'm Nephlite, commanding officer in the Queen's ranks. You have five minutes to produce my warrior or I'll start sending more than this youma." Nephlite repeated his threat as he disappeared into thin air.
The youma, in its wolf form, let out a thundering howl before it began running straight towards Darien who was standing off a distance away from the scouts. "No!" The Scouts yelled as they saw the animal jump, ready to bite and attack their Prince. Darien brought his cane in front of him ready to fight the wolf. He watched it jump towards him as he braced himself for the attack but suddenly a petite body stood directly in front of him with a long staff in her hands. He couldn't see the person's face but the long silver braid told him everything. It was her again. As he realized what she was doing, anger rose in him. "What are you doing?" Darien scolded as he brought his cane and began to help her push the wolf away. With both their strengths they pushed it to the ground. "Protecting you, what does it look like?" She snapped back as she positioned the staff into a fighting position. "It's looks like you're trying to get yourself killed or is this just a plot to get me to lower my defenses?" He accused as he remembers what Nephlite said. 'My warrior.'
He couldn't trust her, no matter how much his gut told him to. The Negaverse was getting desperate and they'd try anything to get to them even by using her. It wasn't safe to trust her, not yet anyways. "What! You think I'm with the Negaverse! You've got to be kidding me." Serena looked away from Darien in anger as she focused on the wolf that was starting to come towards them again. "I don't have time for this." Serena finished as she went towards the wolf while Darien and the Scouts stood where they were.
Darien watched as the wolf and Serena went straight for each other. He felt compelled to help her but in an instant the most amazing thing or probably the most suspicious thing happened. Only a couple of feet from Serena, the wolf stopped and held its place as it stayed still. Bewildered, Darien watched the wolf close and noticed its eyes were directly on her. Why? What power does she have over it? Is she the one who sent it? Darien questioned as he stepped away from her. He could hear the Scouts coming up behind him as they watched the wolf make its way towards the girl as if it were a faithful pet. They stood there in wonderment until a cocky voice filled the air. "I knew you couldn't stay away! So where's you're friend. Is he going to save you again?" Nephlite asked mockingly as he floated closer to her. Serena looked up at him icily. "Not this time." Serena looked towards the Scouts. "I think you might want to powers, right about now!" Serena said strongly as she glanced over at Nephlite. The Scouts agreed as they each began to attack Nephilte. Their attacks didn't harm him but it did force him to disappear again and that's all Serena needed right now.
***
'They stood there watching me in amazement once Nephlite disappeared. If only they knew how amazed I was at this moment. I was on my way to the cemetery with Ethan for our first official patrolling together when I saw the people running. I told him to go on a head to the cemetery while I checked out what was at the pier. He reluctantly agreed and went off in the other direction while I made my way to the youma. When I arrived, I saw Darien dressed up as Tuxedo Mask. He was about to be pounced on, so I did the brave thing and stepped in between them. The wolf is already in midair when our eyes connect for an instant. It stayed there until Darien helped me push it hard to the ground. Then what does he do? He accuses me of working for the Negaverse. The nerve of him, if he only knew the truth.' I thought as I tightened my grip on the staff in my hands. The wolf now was slowly walking towards me as if it was transfixed only on me. Its face softened as I stared into its eyes again.
Suddenly as I stared at it, visions appeared in my mind as I watched Nephlite and Jedite, the general from before, capture a little boy and a golden retriever. I saw them transformed them into the griffon/wolf. Images of the boy and his family filled her mind along with images of him and his dog. Then in an instant she remembered who he was. 'John?' She said in her mind as she watched the wolf slowly and cautiously walk towards her. "It can't be... What did they do to you?" Serena whispered as she kneeled down and reached out for him. "Can you hear me John?" Serena asked as she wondered on how cruel these people were to turn a poor innocent boy into an evil monster. A hideous pain filled her as she felt his fear and his remorse for what he did to the people on the pier. Serena could feel his presence but it was still hidden under the Negaverse's powers. Serena stayed focus on him till she threw her attention towards the Scouts, a little too late.
***
"Let's get rid of the youma while she has it distracted before she gets hurt." Mars stated. The others agreed. "Jupiter Thunder Claps Crash!" "Venus Crescent Beam Smash!" "Mercury Bubbles Blast!" "Mars Celestial Surround!" The Scouts commanded as their attacks ripped straight towards the youma.
Serena heard them call out their attacks and fear filled her eyes as she saw it coming for him. "No!!! John! Stop, please. He's human, don't!" Serena cried helplessly since their attacks were already coming towards him. On pure instinct, Serena jumped up to her feet and stood in between 'John' and the Scouts' attacks. "God, help me." Serena prayed as she closed her eyes and focused her energy on protecting 'John' from being harmed.
The Scouts and Darien watched in horror as they saw the girl take in the full impact of all four attacks. "Oh my gosh!" Amy gasped out loud. "Selene!" Darien cried as he tried to make his way towards her but was stopped as the Scouts held him back. "We have to help her." Darien stated passionately. "It's too late. No human could survive that." Mars voice said filled with grief and remorse as she watched one by one, each attack, hit her small body. Darien stood there stunned; she risked her life to save a youma.. A human she said. How does she know? Darien questioned as the residue from the attacks soon disappeared into the night leaving a small body kneeling on the floor.
As the dust disappeared the Scouts looked on to see Selene on her knees as a faint silver glow surrounded her slightly as it engulfed the youma. Gasps escaped the Scouts' lips as they Selene looking straight at them with blood and burnt marks all over her body. Her clothes were scorched and black while tints of blood stained her once white skin. The silver glow pulsated around her as the most severe burns began to disappear from her skin. They watched in awe as the silver glow began to leave her and surround the youma fully. A bright flash burst into the air as the silver disappeared. Now all that was left, was a still bruised and battered girl with a full healthy youma.
Darien felt water form in his eyes as he stared at this painful sight. The youma saved her with its powers. Why? What is she to him? She has to be part of the Nevgaverse. Why else would they try to save each other? Darien thought to himself as he slowly walked towards her. "We have to get you some help. Come with-" Darien was cut off short when the wolf jumped in between them, teeth fully exposed. The youma growled in defense, protecting the one that protected him. Darien back up but it still stood there. "What do we do? She needs help.. because of us. We attacked an innocent person." Mars cried out regretfully. "It's not our fault it was an accident. So lets-" Amy stopped in surprise as she watched Selene begin to stand slowly onto her own two feet. The Scouts watched as she brought herself to her full height on her weak legs. She stared at them in comfort and understanding.
"It's not your fault. I took the risk to save him. He's my responsibility." She explained sincerely as she wiped the blood from the side of her lip. The youma stood in front of her, still in its protective position. "He won't hurt anyone anymore. He knows the truth now. We better go." She finished mysteriously before she turned and slowly began to walk away. "Wait! Who are you? Are you an ally?" Darien asked desperately, wanting to finally know the truth. Serena turned her face towards him. "I don't know who I am. I am just here and I am on my side not yours or the Negaverse." She signaled 'John' to her. He willingly came to her side. "Be careful whom you fight. The Negaverse is using humans as youmas. You don't want to be responsible for the death of an innocent life. I can't jump in front of every youma." She said as she looked down at 'John'.
Her eyes started to glow metallic silver as a silver essence surrounded John enabling him to turn back into his griffon state. John now stood ten feet tall with full size wings on the sides of his lion body and falcon head. The Scouts stayed still as they watched the griffon bend down low enough for her to easily climb onto its back. Serena faced them one last time as she smiled to them comfortingly. "Later, Scouts." She looked at Darien personally. "Later, Dare. By the way, you're welcome." Serena said as she winced in between from the pain in her body. Serena looked down at where her hand was holding her side. Blood was seeping through her clothes.
"John. Take me out of her, please." Serena whispered close to the griffon's ear. John moved its head up and down. Soon, Serena became amazed as she felt the wind brush up against her. She winced at the feel of it but she held it in as she saw the lights of the city below her. "Go to the cemetery. We'll find a friend there." Serena said softly as she leaned close onto his back as she found herself loosing consciousness amongst his feathers and fur.
***
Darien watched her in awe as he saw her being carried off by a youma. It was something he never thought he'd see but he did. She was amazing and now was a bigger mystery then before, but there was something he was sure about now. After all the contemplating and all the questions he knew who she really was. Who else would call him Dare? Especially in the same tone of voice... as Serena Tuskino.
'Scouts... I think I know who Selene really is. Its Serena." Darien said faintly still unsure if he was right as he heard the gasps from his friends. "That's absurd. Serena is totally different from Selene. It can't be. Anyway, it seems the Negaverse knows Selene pretty well. She could be evil. Serena doesn't even have an evil, let alone, fighting bone in her body. How can you be so sure? " Raye asked as she de-transformed with the other scouts. Darien looked at her. "That's the thing, I'm not sure. I'm just going with my gut feeling. That's why we need to find out. Soon before the Negaverse gets to her first."
***
TBC.. so what do you think? Please send some feedback.. thanks. Dasvidanya!