twelve

"Good morning!" Haruka called out cheerily as she stomped up the last of the shrine's steps. She whipped off her designer shades as she stepped forward; her heels clicked and clacked obnoxiously. Rei, in the middle of peacefully feeding Phobos and Deimos, cringed.

"Were you always this flashy, or is it—"

"Absence makes the heart fonder?" Haruka winked, squatting down beside Rei. "You missed me, admit it."

Rei threw a helpless glance at Michiru, who was more considerably subtle as she approached. Michiru took pity on her. "Haruka, cut it out."

"But I'm just so glad to see people!" Haruka protested. She grabbed a handful of seeds from Rei and gently chucked them on the ground. "Really, that crowd in Norway was not made of human beings. They were too stiff. Had no reaction to anything at all."

Michiru rolled her eyes fondly. She took a seat on the edge of the shrine floor, eyeing the grounds just as Setsuna made her way through the shrine entrance. Setsuna joined her, keeping her own sunglasses on. The two sat side-by-side, watching as Rei slapped Haruka on the arm for chucking a seed at Phobos.

"She thought it was funny!"

"No she didn't, she's glaring at you—"

"That's a smile!"

Michiru couldn't help but laugh. She tried to hold it in but found herself covering her face and looking away. Setsuna sighed. "And that, Michiru, is the other half of your child."

"How do I stand it?" Michiru shook her head, crossing her legs. "This feels nice, though, doesn't it?"

"Mm," Setsuna said. "This calm before the storm."

"If you want to call it that. I myself prefer 'a rare moment of peace.'"

"You, the optimistic?" The two women shared a small smile before they were very much distracted by Shin and Ryo in nothing but sweatpants and sneakers as they jogged around the corner. The two young men waved at Haruka and Rei (Haruka threatened to chase after them if they didn't pick up their pace; Ryo stuck his tongue out at her as he passed by while Shin winked at Rei) before they noticed Michiru and Setsuna.

Shin started once he spotted them; he paused in front of them, a tired smile on his face as he bowed. "Setsuna, Michiru-san."

"Good morning," Ryo said respectfully before he started off again. Shin followed after. Michiru and Setsuna wordlessly leaned over, watching them as they disappeared from sight.

"Oh my," Setsuna said, her hand at her mouth.

"I wouldn't mind having lunch with that every so often," Michiru joked, poking Setsuna in the side. "Who knew that under those sweater vests was rippling, sweaty muscle—"

Setsuna hit Michiru on the shoulder. "You stop that right now!"

"—or toned, rock-hard abs—"

"Your image is quite the deception," Setsuna retorted, hitting her again. "If only everyone knew you weren't as gentle as you seem."

Michiru winked. "I'm not the one blushing."

"My skin is dark, I don't blush," Setsuna said, clearing her throat. She was saved from further embarrassment as Haruka flopped down on the other side of her as Rei sat down beside Michiru.

"So, Rei, shirtless boys running around the shrine? What does your grandfather think?"

"If he knew, I'm sure he'd have a heart attack," Haruka added in addition to Michiru's quip. "Little miss shrine maiden, however, has just informed me that her grandfather is out of town."

"Is that so?" Michiru raised her eyebrows, glancing at the priestess. "And so when ojiisan is away, boys come to play?"

"You guys are too much," Rei grumbled, although she was smiling. "Men are—"

"Troublesome, dirty, a waste of time, tell me about it," Haruka said flippantly. "But come on, gossip with us. Don't you think that Hashiba kid's a looker?"

Rei continued to ignore her. Haruka sighed heavily as Michiru put a finger to her lip. "Hashiba, the one with the blue hair, no? I assumed Makoto was interested in him..."

"Did you really come here to gossip with me?" Rei asked.

"We came to enjoy the calm before the storm," Michiru said, her smile fading away. "I would have liked to call it 'a rare moment of peace' but of course Setsuna disagrees."

"What are the chances that Shutendouji will be allowed to return?" Setsuna asked, glancing at Rei's suddenly contemplative expression.

"He seemed very sure."

"I see. I have spoken to Kayura about the yoroi ball. She seems puzzled as to how it was in the enemy's possession. They're searching every man at the palace now."

"That yoroi ball is the least of my worries." At Rei's words, the three older senshi frowned. Michiru touched her shoulder.

"What do you mean?"

"This Badamon character... They all seemed wary of him. They said he was capable of dark magic. If he's truly that strong, then I'm not surprised he managed to escape. We all need to be careful."

"Usagi," Haruka said. "You mean Usagi."

"We need to watch out for her. Ami's concerned, too." Rei lifted her eyes to them with a sigh. "She messaged me last night after she left. Apparently that corrupt yoroi ball—you know about that, right? Apparently it gave a... reaction only when the Ginzuishou started purifying it."

"A reaction?"

"Ami thinks the Ginzuishou changed the yoroi ball rather than purify it. She thinks that whatever powers it had before will be different now."

"And this puts Usagi in danger?" Haruka questioned. It was Michiru who nodded and answered.

"I see. If the enemy finds out what she can do, they'll realize who she is and target her instead of Jupiter. Understood. Ami was right to worry. I'll keep a close eye on her. Everyone else can focus on battle, I'll protect her."

Setsuna looked faintly bothered. "You think Usagi won't notice?"

"Of course she will," Haruka said. "And she's stubborn. She'll say that we don't need to protect her, that she wants to protect us. She'll cry until we give in."

"Unlike you saps, I'm quite accustomed to crocodile tears," Michiru said as she modestly brushed off her skirt. "Who was, after all, Hotaru's toughest mother?"

Haruka and Setsuna paused for a moment, reflecting back to a time where Hotaru had knocked over the Stradivarius. She was forced to retune it, only after apologizing to the violin itself. She had been five at the time.

"You were so mean," Haruka said, suppressing a shudder. "Poor Hotaru, no wonder she likes me best—"

"Excuse me," Setsuna said, stepping on Haruka's foot. Michiru reached over and pinched her.

"Ow! I was just kidding!"

Setsuna sighed, glancing back to Rei. The priestess was smiling, but she seemed tired. "Have you been sleeping alright?"

"Hm?" Rei blinked a few times. "Yes, why?"

"You look like you need some rest, that's all." Setsuna smiled kindly. "We should leave you alone, shouldn't we?"

As if on cue, Ryo and Shin rounded the corner again. Setsuna was very aware that Michiru was smirking; she kept her gaze determinedly at Shin's face, determined not to prove her sister senshi right. Haruka snorted. "You guys call that running? I would've done a lap twice as fast—"

"Now now, Haruka, we like the slow running," Michiru chided as Ryo and Shin passed on by. "More time for Setsuna to appreciate."

Setsuna slapped Michiru's knee. "Didn't I say cut that out?"

"Jeez, Setsuna, isn't this a bit overkill?" Haruka teased, catching on. "How much older are you anyway, like ten years—"

"Ten years—you little—"

"Hm, they are kind of cute," Rei said, her head tilted as Ryo and Shin disappeared from view. Only Michiru heard; Setsuna had pinched Haruka's ear and twisted, hard. Haruka was shrieking about the indignity of it all.

"Oh? Your type, Rei?"

"Not at all," Rei said, rolling her eyes. "Your type, Michiru?"

"Not at all," Michiru repeated, smiling teasingly. "Of course, it doesn't hurt to look, no?"

Rei, of course, didn't answer, choosing instead to examine her nails and comment on the weather.

After a moment, Michiru and Haruka left. They promised they would return the next day, ready to embark on the journey to the Youjakai to save their little girl. Setsuna stayed behind, mentioning that she wanted to speak with Shin.

Fortunately for her, it only took a few minutes before Shin and Ryo completed their final lap. She and Rei watched as they approached. To Setsuna's slight relief, they had found their shirts. "Man, what a workout," Ryo was saying, a big grin on his face. "We meet our goal, a hundred?"

"Hundred and one," Shin said. "You miscounted, but I didn't feel like correcting you—"

"Haruka left?" Ryo asked, glancing around, as if she would pop out from behind a pillar.

"Mm, she and Michiru plan on visiting the pool later." Setsuna wrinkled her nose as Shin sat down beside her. "Don't you smell lovely, Mouri."

"I try," Shin jested, nudging her. "Oops, sorry, I don't want to get your designer suit dirty—"

Rei raised her eyebrows, trying not to look too surprised at Setsuna. It had always been a mystery to the Guardian Senshi as to what Setsuna actually did. Guard the Time Gates, sure, and maybe work part-time at Keio University. But other than that, they had no idea. Minako theorized that she was running a harem (courtesy of Haruka's slick off-the-hand comment one day) and Makoto seemed inclined to agree ("What? Setsuna's got game!"). Usagi couldn't handle the thought of Setsuna living that kind of lifestyle, and Rei and Ami both thought the idea was ridiculous.

But seeing Setsuna now smile the way she was smiling at Shin—Rei was wondering if the theory held. "Setsuna and the Harem," she murmured, more to herself.

Ryo gave her an odd glance. "What was that?"

"Nothing," Rei said in a clipped tone. She side-eyed him. "Have a good sleep?"

"Yeah, thanks again," Ryo said. He was getting used to Rei—everything about her, the way she was, how she spoke. It was all rude at first, and maybe condescending, but he figured she was just like Seiji. A little cold on the outside and nothing but warmth on the inside. He didn't think he'd be getting to witness the warmth firsthand anytime soon, but he wasn't going to force that side of her to come out. "Come on, Shin. I'm pretty sure everyone else is trying to get Touma up right now."

"I doubt our combined forces will help any," Shin joked. He nodded a farewell to Setsuna before he and Ryo disappeared behind the screen door. As soon as she was sure they were out of earshot, Rei turned to the older woman.

"Setsuna, you need to be careful as well."

"Hmm?" Setsuna took off her sunglasses, placing them on the ground beside her. "Any particular reason?"

Rei fumbled with the sleeves of her robes. She pushed them back, reaching into the tie around her waist. From there she produced a card, handing it to Setsuna. Setsuna wordlessly turned it over; a grim smile played on her lips.

It was a tarot card, of Death.

"The last time I pulled that," Rei said hesitantly, "was during Galaxia's time. Right before I died."

"And you're saying this is for me?"

"It feels like it's for you." Rei took in a breath. "I wouldn't want to scare you, or make you wary. I don't know what this means."

"Of course." Setsuna continued to stare at the card. "If I may be honest, I've suspected for awhile..."

"Suspected?"

"Known."

"Setsuna..."

"It all fits, anyway," Setsuna said. She played with the edge of the card. "My duties are to the Time Gates. I have broken them again, after being punished last time. I've gone to the future, I've looked to the past. Forbidden, you know, as a time guardian is just that—a guardian."

"What did you go to the future and the past for?" Rei's question was quiet. Setsuna shook her head.

"I wanted to know there was still hope. That at the end of this battle, everything will be okay."

"And will it?"

Setsuna glanced at Rei, almost surprised to find the amount of trust the priestess had in her. "Of course it will be. It always will be, Rei, if you remember why you're here. I happened to forget, sometime along the years. And now I remember. There was no point in me going to the future. Everything will always be alright."

"But you'll die."

"I will die." Rei didn't look away at the coldness of the words, but her eyes watered. "Please don't mention this to anyone."

"Why are you telling me?"

There was a break in Rei's voice. Setsuna looked away. "I'm sorry. I'm being selfish. I hadn't intended on letting anyone know, but you approached me and..."

And she wanted someone—just anyone—to listen.

"Setsuna, I can't just—"

"I will die," Setsuna repeated more firmly. "Just as you have died for your princess before. It is my decision."

"There's another way," Rei said, standing up. "There has to be. It can't just—be like this, Setsuna. You'll come back, you'll go through the Cauldron and you'll come back."

"I won't come back," Setsuna said quietly. "Sit down, Rei. And, for a moment, can we just pretend that we don't know any of this? I'd like this rare moment of peace to last a bit longer."

Rei's breath shook as she stared at Setsuna, who was admiring the blossoms on the trees. After a moment, she sat back down, her fingers gripping the folds of her hakama tightly. She bowed her head, able to keep the tears in, but unable to accept what she had feared for awhile now.

Setsuna sighed, placing a hand on Rei's back. "It will be alright," she said softly.

"The talismans," Rei finally confessed, her voice shaking. "I see them destroying the world."

Setsuna's expression was neutral, but her mind was running. The talismans? What did they have to do with anything? The Silence had come and gone, Saturn had awakened without threatening the balance of the world... Unless... "You haven't told anyone, have you?"

"I don't know what any of this means."

"We both have our secrets then."

"I can't keep this to myself," Rei choked out, wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. A few tears still fell, leaving big splotches on her hakama. She closed her eyes, trying to calm down. "What you're planning, Setsuna, it's not fair. You know that."

"It will be alright," Setsuna echoed.

A part of her wondered how long she could keep saying that, how long she could keep pretending that she didn't want another solution.

x

A day later, Usagi found herself gaping at the newcomer who suddenly appeared in a beam of light. The light died down, revealing the young man in dark blue robes. "Rei," she said quietly with wide eyes, "you never told us was hot."

"Was it necessary?" Rei said, not even bothering to look at her friend. Mamoru, standing right behind Usagi, sighed. Michiru patted his arm comfortingly. The Senshi and Troopers watched as Shuten took a step forward, his eyes locked onto Setsuna.

"Guardian," he murmured respectfully. Usagi's hands flew to her mouth at the sound of his low voice.

"I'm glad we could meet again," Setsuna said, nodding her head. "Death has treated you kindly."

"Not nearly as kindly as life had treated you."

"I think you missed that detail on purpose," Minako whispered, appearing on Rei's other side. "You wanted him for yourself."

"He's dead," Rei said flatly, turning to exchange an exasperated look with Makoto. To her dismay, the taller Senshi wasn't even paying attention to the conversation, taking instead to stare at Shuten.

"But hot dead," Usagi continued as she and Minako tilted their heads to check him out.

"You're kidding," Rei grumbled.

Shuten suddenly looked in their direction. Usagi's eyes widened even more. "Woah," she said, nudging Ami, "he looks so manly and serious! Your type, Ami, your type!"

"U-Usagi," Ami said, a bit flustered as Shuten stepped towards them. He bowed low, his hair spilling over his shoulders.

"Sailor Senshi," he said as he straightened up. "It is an honor."

Then he turned to the Troopers.

Shutendouji was exactly as Ryo had remembered. It was if he hadn't aged—of course he hadn't, he had died, Ryo thought. But he was wearing the same robes, carrying the same staff and looking at them with the same guarded expression. The Troopers, all in their subarmor, apprehensively stared back, wondering what to say, what to do. 'Thanks for sacrificing yourself so we could save the world' was most certainly not the way to go.

There was a pause, as if time itself had stopped. Then Shuten smiled. "I see you all are doing well."

Ryo stepped forward first, shoving away all thoughts of guilt. He clapped Shuten on the shoulder with a grin. "You look great yourself."

It was as if a dam broke. Shuu laughed openly, punching Shuten on the arm as if they had been great friends and not once-enemies. "Yeah, I bet you're getting all the chicks in the afterlife!"

"I'm glad you're here, Shuten," Shin said, clasping his hand in a shake. Touma nodded, propping his elbow on Seiji's shoulder.

"Really, we'd be lost if it weren't for you."

"No clue how to open a portal," Seiji added.

"It is my pleasure to be able to assist," Shuten said modestly. He caught Nasuti's eye and inclined his head slightly. "Nasuti-san, hello."

"Shuten," Nasuti said warmly, a smile blooming on her face. A small moment passed between them, in which she was comfortable in just looking at him. Shuu and Shin raised their eyebrows and whistled innocently as Touma counted the passing seconds.

"Well," Ryo said, interrupting the moment. Shuten glanced away from Nasuti, nodding at Ryo.

"I suppose we get down to business now?"

"First, here," Touma said, tossing Shuten his yoroi ball. "This belongs to you."

Shuten caught it deftly, but there was a curious look on his face. "Thank you. You purified it yourself?"

"With the help of a princess," Touma said, nodding his head at Usagi. Usagi grinned feebly, waving.

"Thank you," Shuten said, bowing again. "I cannot tell you how much I appreciate it."

"Oh, no, the pleasure was all ours," Minako said, stepping forward. Her eyes sparkled as she looked him up and down. She didn't know what she had been expecting when she heard about a dead guy coming back to life, but the man in front of her was definitely not it. Before she could say any more, Rei grabbed her by the shoulder and pulled her back. "Ow, Rei—"

"Cut it out," Rei said, rolling her eyes. She turned her sharp gaze onto Shuten. "Your journey was alright?"

Shuten seemed to be amused, not at all bothered by the fact that Makoto was tight-lipped and staring at him with an obvious blush. "It was fine. I hope I didn't keep you up too late last night."

A very quiet and very high noise escaped both Usagi and Minako at the implication of that sentence. They stared at Rei who, to her credit, didn't even bat an eyelash. "Don't worry, I was only pretending to listen to you and actually fell asleep," she said flippantly. Shuten didn't take offense; he chuckled, bowing his head.

"I will admit, I'm pleased to actually hear your sharp wit in person."

"Don't get used to it."

"I'm afraid it's too late for that."

"Oh my god," Usagi whispered behind her hand. "Is Rei flirting with a dead guy?!"

"Hot dead guy, Usagi," Minako corrected, looking concerned. "No wonder she's always sitting in front of the fire, saying she's uninterested in men. I bet she's dating a ghost."

Rei turned her darkest glare on the both of them. Quite unfazed, Minako put a hand to her chin and nodded.

"No mission is impossible. Usagi, you in?"

"In on this?" Usagi looked incredulous. "You bet I am!"

Haruka stepped forward. As much as she loved seeing Rei get so riled up (and especially that Minako and Usagi were the ones to do it), she wanted nothing more than to get to the Youjakai. The sooner they got there, the sooner they could get back. "All fun and games aside," she said, catching Shuten's attention, "we're ready to go. Are you?"

"Of course." Shuten turned to the Troopers, pausing as his eyes fell on Nasuti again. Seiji caught his meaning.

"Nasuti, perhaps you should stay here?"

"Oh," Nasuti said. Her expression fell, but only for a moment. Of course she had to stay. Unlike before, when she had been to the Youjakai with Jun, she had nothing to offer. She would just be a burden. Still... "Right."

"You'll take care of Jun, right?" Ryo added, slinging an arm around her shoulder. She started, still unaccustomed to the fact that these boys—young men—were now all taller than her. When she had met them, they had just been teenagers...

"Jun can take handle himself, you know that," Nasuti replied. She patted his hand. "Be safe, you guys."

Shuu and Touma both saluted her. "Yes ma'am."

"Seiji, Shin, you'll take care of these boys?"

Seiji smiled, nodding his head as Shin laughed. "We'll do our best."

So Nasuti stepped back, watching as Shuten pushed back his sleeves. During their goodbyes, the Senshi had all transformed. It was odd, eerie, mystical, even, to see them all gathered in one place. A thought came over Nasuti, one that always made her turn her eyes to the ground. These Sailor Senshi were the same as the Troopers—they depended solely on themselves. It almost seemed like they were shouldering the weight of the world, and they had no one else but each other to rely on.

Nasuti was glad both groups found each other.

"So," Uranus said, hands on her hip. "How does this work?"

"You try not to lose your lunch," Ryo said wryly, exchanging a glance with Touma. He distinctly remembered feeling slightly sick the first time Shuten had thrown them into the Youjakai.

"And try not to get lost," Touma added. Jupiter and Mercury automatically grabbed Sailor Moon's hands.

"Oh come on, guys, it's not like I'm a puppy—"

"You're a puppy," Jupiter said. "Don't even try to deny it."

"Pfft," Sailor Moon grumbled, though she was grinning.

"If you're all prepared," Shuten said, holding out his staff. The rings tinkered against each other playfully, creating a melody that caused Pluto to smile slightly. Memories, she thought, of the original Kaos. She had hardly known him, but she had known the sounds the staff made.

"We're ready," Venus affirmed. Her eyes slid to Mamoru, who had taken his place beside Nasuti. "Ty not to get kidnapped while we're gone, will you?"

Mamoru's smile was fairly polite as he nodded. "As long as you keep her safe."

"Pfft," Sailor Moon said again, rolling her eyes. She was the only one who missed the slight tension in Venus's shoulders at his words. "As if, Mamo-chan, you know I'll be protecting her—"

"Let's go," Mercury said hurriedly before Venus could say something biting. It didn't happen often, but Mamoru and Minako butted heads—always at the wrong place, and always at the wrong time. Usagi was the only one who didn't notice, and no one bothered to tell her. It was just Mamou being overprotective, Minako being stubborn.

Shuten spun the staff in his hands, the rings clinking noisily together; without warning, he threw it into the air. Sailor Moon's eyes squinted almost shut as the staff disappeared in a blinding pillar of light. She glanced around, seeing Jupiter start to sparkle. A second later, Mercury also started shimmering. And soon, one-by-one, the rest of the Senshi and the Troopers were glowing.

Sailor Moon turned her gaze back to Shuten, her brow furrowed. Before she could open her mouth and ask what was happening, the world disappeared before her eyes and she was flying straight up into the pillar. She clenched her eyes shut, gripping Jupiter's and Mercury's hands tightly. It was an odd sensation, having the ground so far away, and yet it wasn't uncomfortable.

In fact, she felt as if the Ginzuishou were guiding her.

As sudden as the sensation started, it stopped. Sailor Moon opened her eyes, glancing around wildly. Beside her, Mercury had activated her goggles. Jupiter let go of Sailor Moon's hand, taking her around the shoulder. "How you feeling?"

"It's weird," Sailor Moon mumbled, shaking her head. "It felt like..."

"Gee, wish I was warned about all this water," Venus grumbled, interrupting her train of thought. She was standing on one foot, trying not to get the other wet. Mars and Neptune looked equally uncomfortable. "Hey, Shuu, wanna give me a lift?"

"No way," Shuu said, laughing. "Not unless you say the magic word."

"Oh come on, be a gentleman!"

"Who told you to wear heels?" Ryo teased. She pouted at him, flipping her hair over her shoulder.

"Thank god for our boots," Jupiter commented. She looked around with a slight smile. The aesthetics was beyond anything she had imagined. It reminded her of Elysion, which made sense considering what Setsuna had told them. She bent down to touch one of the many lotus flowers that sparkled against the surface of the water. The flowers, though, were nothing compared to how close the stars were. "So this is the Youjakai?"

"It's very beautiful," Mercury said, sounding distracted as she read the symbols that flew across her goggles. "Also very similar to Elysion energy-wise. I wonder, is there a power source that fuels the energy?"

"Never thought of that before," Seiji said, looking at Shuten. "Any ideas?"

"It draws its powers from my mother planet," Pluto answered for him. She waved her staff; the mist around them cleared, revealing a partially opened red gate that stretch infinitely into the sky. "Good aim, Shutendouji."

Shuten shrugged at the compliment. "The gate should lead us straight to the palace," he explained, seeing the confused looks. "Kayura is expecting us."

"Then what are we waiting for?" Seiji murmured, leading the way. Venus immediately bounded after him, trying not to grimace every time her heels squished around in the water. Soon, the party passed through the gate to arrive in an abrupt change of scenery. The ground of water had faded away, leading into a wooden bridge. In front of them, against the backdrop of the starry sky (with the stars so close, so near, almost within reach) was a large, ornate palace.

"Looks better than when it was crawling with youja soldiers," Ryo commented.

"I have to agree," Shin said, nodding.

And there, waiting patiently in front of the palace, was Kayura. The second she spotted them, she held her hands up to her mouth, covering her smile. Beside her, Rajura, in his own subarmor, stared at them evenly, his bored expression unwavering as they neared.

"Oh man," Shuu said. "I forgot about the Masho."

"How could you forget?" Shin asked, smiling slightly. "Shuten is right there."

"I imagine this will be quite awkward," Seiji said, trying to keep his expression neutral.

"You bet," Ryo muttered, but he easily grinned when Kayura clapped her hands together.

"I'm glad you made it safely," she cried out as soon as they were within hearing range. Her eyes roamed each Trooper's face before they rested on Ryo. She beamed. "You all have grown."

"So have you, little lady," Seiji said amiably. "Or should we be calling you Empress?"

"Of course you'll call her Empress," Rajura said. Though his voice held no emotion, they could easily see the annoyance in his face.

"Rajura," Shin greeted before Ryo could retort. "You look well."

Rajura nodded, acknowledging the bearer of Suiko. Out of the Troopers, he had found Shin to be somewhat sensible. That didn't mean much, however, considering the rest of his company. He glanced around, his gaze passing right over the Senshi before his eyes fell on Shuten. "So you manage to break the laws of death as well."

"Temporarily," Shuten said with a slight smirk. Kayura's smile widened as he stepped forward; her hands returned to her mouth.

"Shutendouji—"

"I believe this belongs to you," Shuten said, holding out his hand. Kayura reached forward, taking the yoroi ball he offered. "Don't lose it again."

"No, I won't," Kayura said earnestly, holding the yoroi ball as if it were a treasure. "I promise. We figured out how it was stolen, though. It was a palace hand, hired by Badamon—"

No one missed the way she vehemently said his name. Uranus raised her eyebrows, sharing a look with Neptune. So this Badamon really was unpopular.

"I had suspected Badamon had a hand in it," Shuten said. "A yoroi ball that could open portals—what a ridiculous notion."

"Well, there goes that theory," Jupiter quipped.

"It wouldn't hurt to test it anyway," Mercury said, looking hopefully at Shin. The corner of his lips lifted; not for the first time, he couldn't help but think how similar she was to Touma.

"Maybe after this is all over."

Shuten turned to the entrance of the palace, eyeing it. No doubt he was thinking about how much had changed. "I assume those goons are bickering somewhere inside?"

"Of course they are," Rajura said, rolling his eye. "Those children."

"Oh, right!" Kayura said, focusing her attention back to the Senshi and Troopers. "Forgive me for being rude! We can use my dining room to discuss our plan of action next. Oh Shuten, Anubis and Naaza will be so glad to see you, they've been antsy since they found out you'd be coming—"

"Have they now?" Shuten looked amused as he stored away the information for future blackmail.

"Man," Shuu grumbled as he followed after Kayura into the palace. "Who wants to bet Naaza tries to poison us within five minutes?"

"I'd wager a dinner on that," Shin said, quietly enough so that no one but Shuu and Ryo could hear.

"Make it two dinners," Ryo grumbled. Jupiter, nearest them, gave them a skeptical look.

"You guys are awful. I thought you said they joined the good side."

"You can join the good side and still be evil, my lady," Shuu said, suddenly linking his arm through hers. "Don't worry, I'll protect you though."

Jupiter wrinkled her nose. "More like I'll protect you, midget."

"Midget?" Shuu's mouth fell open. "What does that make you, super midget? I'm taller, you know—"

At their exchange, Seiji gave Ryo an inquisitive glance. Ryo shrugged as Shin wiggled his eyebrows up and down. It was Venus, however, who threw her arm around Seiji and grinned. "Jealous of their newfound friendship? I assure you, Seiji, we can have the same thing, if you want—"

He was thankfully spared from answering as Kayura threw open the doors to the dining room of the palace. The sight that greeted them made everyone pause. Naaza was on the ground, his face smushed under Anubis's foot. He was flailing with his arms, trying to reach out for Anubis; Anubis, however, dodged every attempt to be dragged down. Hotaru sat off to the side, her chin in her hands, watching them boredly.

At the sight of them, Hotaru abruptly stood up. Anubis's foot slid off Naaza's face, and Naaza sat up.

"Aren't you supposed to be dead?" Naaza said bluntly. Shuten raised his eyebrows.

"I thought some time would teach you to stop eating dirt off the floor, but I suppose that was wishful thinking."

Anubis snorted as he clasped Shuten's hand. It was as if Shuten had never died. "Believe me, not even a beating would teach him manners."

"Such a shame that task had to be left to you," Shuten commented. To everyone's surprise, Naaza just rolled his eyes.

"Touching reunion," Ryo mumbled, watching Naaza and Anubis carefully. There was something raw about them; where Rajura had been cold, the two of them were openly challenging the Troopers with their smug stares. Or maybe that was him being paranoid. They had joined the good side, right? And if Kayura had accepted them, then they were okay... Right?

"Naaza, you look well," Shin said cordially, making the first move. Naaza's attention turned from Shuten to Shin. He smiled unkindly.

"I wish I could say the same for you, Suiko no Shin," he said. Shin narrowed his eyes, but he kept his mouth shut. Naaza smirked until Kayura delicately stepped on his foot.

"Here goes," Seiji said under his breath.

"What was that, Kourin no Seiji?" Anubis tilted his head back. "Perhaps you'd like to repeat yourself for everyone to hear?"

"Stop embarrassing me," Kayura hissed, stepping on his foot as well. "Why can't you be more like Rajura—"

"Woah," Venus suddenly said, not even bothering to hide her stare at Anubis as she nudged Jupiter. Anubis stared back, looking almost troubled. "Hey Hotaru, who's the hottie?"

"Hotaru," Ryo suddenly said, his gaze snapping to her. In the midst of, well, everything, they had forgotten about the teenager. She stood there with a slightly amused look, although her expression quickly became flustered when Ryo abruptly threw his arms around her.

"Um excuse me," Uranus said as Neptune bit her lip to keep from smiling. Pluto raised her eyebrows but said nothing.

"Jeez, you had me so worried!" Ryo said after he broke apart from Hotaru, holding her at arm's length. She cringed nervously—not because of how close he was, but because of the look on Uranus's face.

"Hey, pretty boy, get your hands off—"

"Rekka no Ryo," Kayura said loudly, cutting in between the two. She swiftly grabbed Hotaru's arm, smiling almost too pleasantly. Uranus decided that she very much liked Kayura. "Shall we proceed to our discussions?"

"Yes, let's," Uranus said, grabbing Hotaru's other arm. She leaned down, dropping her voice to a whisper. "When we get back home, we are going to have a good talk, young lady—"

"Tell me about it," Hotaru mumbled, trying not to notice that both Naaza and Anubis (maybe even Rajura) had temporarily joined forces in order to glower at Ryo.

It took a moment for everyone to get seated (Venus couldn't make up her mind if she wanted to sit next to Anubis or Shin, and in her indecision was stuck next to Sailor Moon), but eventually they were all in place. Kayura looked first to Pluto, bowing her head. "I apologize for not greeting you earlier, Guardian."

"No apologies needed," Pluto said warmly, standing up. "I know firsthand how charming Shutendouji can be when he wants to."

"I do not blame him for attempting to charm someone as beautiful as you," Naaza said abruptly, causing Pluto to abruptly sit down in confusion. The Troopers stared, Rajura lifted an eyebrow, Anubis lowered his own, and Shuten looked terribly perplexed. Hotaru, however, reached under the table and pinched him. He glared at her. "Do that again and I will cut off your fingers."

"Naaza-san," she hissed, undaunted, "that is my mother—"

"Naaza-sama," he corrected, and he gave her a sour look. "And how on earth did something like you come from someone as beautiful as her?"

"Told you she's got it," Jupiter said quietly to Venus, who was biting on a finger in glee. Neptune was patting a very startled Pluto's shoulder as Uranus wondered what to make of his weird, beady-eyed man. Mars rolled her eyes and Mercury had clasped her hand over her mouth while Sailor Moon leaned forward in her seat, enjoying the spectacle.

"Naaza, stop that," Kayura said, looking cross. "You're creeping our guests out. And Hotaru is just as beautiful—"

Naaza crossed his arms, looking the very part of a scolded child. Shuu opened his mouth, found that he had absolutely nothing to say about what just happened, and closed it. Shin scratched his head. "I'm not sure how to react..."

"My apologies, Guardian Pluto," Kayura continued. "I suppose the first order of business then is to figure out a plan of action?"

"Right," Uranus said, taking charge before Venus could open her mouth. "How sure are you that the source of coming from Elysion?"

"Fairly certain," Kayura answered. Rajura handed her a large scroll, which she unfurled and spread across the table. "We have mapped out the potential next area of attack by the enemy. It seems that they're following some sort of alignment of the planets. We had intercepted them on their last battle."

"The planets?" Mercury stood up to get a better view of the map. After a moment she nodded, pointing at a spot marked with an x. "This mirrors our world completely. If you look here, this point would coincide with where your recital was, Michiru. And here," she moved her finger to another marked point, "is the flowershop. And the festival, and then the battle with Saphir and Demand... Where had you been attacked, Mako-chan?"

"Just outside of school," Jupiter answered with a frown. "Daikanyama."

Mercury nodded, tapping another marked spot on the map. "Approximately here. And so their next attack..."

"That's Keio University," Touma said, staring at the next marked spot. "Assuming that they don't change their plans, of course."

"But we don't know when they're going to attack," Shin said. "Especially after we took the yoroi ball back..."

"I'm not familiar with this Badamon character so I wouldn't know his method of planning," Mercury said, putting a hand to her lip. "Assuming, though, that he had wanted us to use the yoroi ball when it was corrupt—perhaps he doesn't plan on changing his strategy—"

"Badamon was crafty," Rajura interrupted. "We need to be cautious."

Kayura narrowed her eyes. "He was crafty, but he was not very innovative. He had only one method of attack. I would not put it past him to keep with this battle plan."

"So what do we do?" Uranus asked. "From the way you guys talk, it doesn't seem like he's the kind of guy to come out and fight his own battles."

"No," Anubis said, "he most certainly is not."

"So we go to Elysion," Venus said. She turned her gaze onto the ceiling. "It just bugs me that something's going down there and yet Helios hasn't said anything..."

"Maybe he can't," Jupiter suggested. "We won't know until we try."

"If I may suggest something," Seiji said, drawing attention to him. "I'm still unsure of the details on this Elysion—"

"What a surprise," Anubis drawled. Seiji ignored him.

"—and as such, I don't feel comfortable having everyone traveling there while the Youjakai and potentially our own world are left defenseless."

"I agree," Neptune said. "Some of us should stay here, in case something happens."

"What, you don't already know?" Uranus teased. Neptune hushed her with a level stare.

"So," Ryo said, taking a deep breath. "Who goes and who stays?"

There was a moment of silence as everyone mulled the thought over. Touma spoke first. "I think Shin and I should stay here. Ryo, Seiji and Shuu, you guys can handle it?"

"Duh," Shuu said as Seiji nodded his agreement.

"Sounds good." Ryo turned to the Senshi. "You guys?"

Venus pursed her lips before she came to a decision. "Mars, Jupiter, you two go to Elysion. I'll stay. Mercury, I want you here, too, in case something goes wrong—this Badamon guy attacks the human world or something."

"Agreed," Mercury said. "Sailor Moon, I would like it if you were with us as well."

Sailor Moon chewed her lip. "But Elysion..."

"Oh come on, you'll have like centuries later to stare at it all you want," Venus said. She winked. "Come on, when's the last time we had fun with Ami?"

"Well, if you put it like that," Sailor Moon said, catching the hint as she not-so-subtly snuck a glance at Touma. "Sure, I'll stay."

"I'll stay as well," Neptune said, giving Mars a significant glance. She turned her gaze to Uranus. "Be nice to Setsuna and Hotaru, and try not to miss me too much."

"Already over it," Uranus said fondly. She looked pointedly at Anubis. "I want you to come with us."

Anubis raised his eyebrows. "And if I disagree?"

"You won't," Uranus said confidently. "Something about you says you enjoy danger."

Anubis didn't reply, but he smirked nonetheless.

"Man," Shuu muttered to Seiji, who tried not look unbothered at the fact that Anubis was joining them, "I was hoping they'd all stay."

"So the rest of us will remain here," Shuten concluded. He caught Mars's eye. "Unfortunately, I won't be able to see your so-called control over fire."

"Keep talking and maybe you will," Mars said smoothly, brushing off her skirt. Shuten did nothing to hide his smile.

"You're threatening me now, Sailor Mars?"

"Only if you want it to be a threat."

Venus and Sailor Moon (and also Seiji, even though he wouldn't admit it) looked between the two with much interest.

"So," Kayura said, tearing the attention away from them. "We'll travel to the assumed battle spot, and from there we could travel to Elysion."

"We?" Shuten shared a glance with Rajura. It was the elder who spoke.

"Kayura, you have a land to rule. We cannot allow you to come with us."

"But," Kayura said, her confident features taking on a rather childish look, "I can help. I'm not going to sit by and let Badamon do whatever he pleases!"

"Kayura," Touma said calmly, drawing her gaze to him. "The Youjakai needs you. If something should happen to you—"

"I'm quite capable of taking care of myself," Kayura argued. Jupiter and Mars, exchanging looks across the table, smirked approvingly.

"Empress," Sailor Moon piped up, "I know you're worried about what will happen if you're not there. Believe me, I want to go too. But you just have to believe in them."

Kayura stared at her for a moment before she closed her eyes, nodding. She sat down with a sigh, but she said nothing further.

"Great," Venus said, clapping her hands together. "Shall we get going?"

"Well," Hotaru said hesitantly, sharing a look with Rajura. He nodded, taking control of the conversation.

"We have been looking into the talismans."

"The talismans?" Neptune said sharply, narrowing her eyes at him. "What of them?"

"Replicas of your talismans had been created in this land," Rajura explained, not at all hindered by the caution in her eyes. "The three objects, though not quite as genuine as your own, did hold quite enough power to take down Arago. We had assumed them to be the Kikoutei, the Swords of Fervor and the Jewel of Life."

"Two of which no longer exist," Touma said, eyes widening. "What does that mean?"

"It means that while they were incredibly powerful, they were not talismans. We've found the real replica of the Mirror, but the Sword is still a mystery."

"I don't get it," Uranus said flatly. "Why are we talking about talismans? What does this have to do with anything? Okay, so you can't find it. So what?"

"This is simply a theory," Rajura continued, noting that Shuten was looking more concerned with each passing moment. "A wild one at that, with no real grounds. But there is the possibility that the Sword cannot be found because someone else is in possession of it."

"Badamon," Mercury said with wide eyes. "Oh no—you can't possibly think..."

Beside her, Mars had clenched her hands in fists. Ryo noted the tension in her posture, the way her eyes stared at the table, as if she couldn't bear to look up. Had she known about this? She had mentioned the talismans before, hadn't she? He'd have to confront her later...

"Again, it is a far-fetched idea," Rajura said. "But perhaps when all three replica talismans of this world come together, there will be no chance of winning."

"What," Shuu said, completely ruining the atmosphere. "What does that mean? What's a talisman?"

Pluto closed her eyes. "Neptune, Uranus and I are carriers of the three talismans of the human world. The Deep Aqua Mirror, the Space Sword and the Garnet Orb. When combined, they have the affect of waking up Sailor Saturn's powers, which will destroy the world."

"Obviously we found a way around that," Uranus said, glancing over at Hotaru. The girl looked relatively calm, despite the fact that Touma and Seiji were both staring at her apprehensively.

"The Jewel of Life," Shin said slowly. "It's in the human world, with Jun."

"And the Mirror is here," Kayura said, nodding her head. "He would have to fight desperately to locate all three."

"We can't take any chances," Sailor Moon said abruptly. Her eyes were worried as she bit her lip. "Some of us need to go back."

"Mamoru and Chibiusa," Jupiter said suddenly. "We can let them know, can't we? They can guard it."

"Chibiusa's still learning," Venus said. She looked dubious. "And Mamoru, well..."

"The Jewel of Life will be fine. The Golden Crystal is more than enough to protect it," Pluto said. She glanced briefly at Mars, who was sitting very still. "I trust the Mirror will be safe with you, Kayura."

"Of course it will," Ryo said. He stood up. "We're wasting time. The more we sit and talk, the more time Badamon has to act."

Moments later, the group gathered in front of the palace. The party heading towards Elysion stood together, saying their brief farewells. Neptune and Saturn were off to the side, speaking quietly; Uranus watched carefully. Tiny details pointed out that there was something wrong—a hint of sadness in Saturn's eyes, the barest confusion in Neptune's smile. The two casually rejoined the group after a moment, acting as if nothing was out of the ordinary.

Anubis smirked at Naaza before he turned to Pluto. "Guardian, shall we be off?"

He bowed, offering her his arm. Naaza's lips turned into a thin white line as Pluto blinked. She glanced at Neptune, who held up her hands as if to say, "Hey, you're the single one, not me."

"I need to know her secrets," Jupiter murmured to Mars as Pluto uncertainly took Anubis's arm. Saturn stared.

"A—Anubis, that's—my mother—"

As he led Pluto away, Anubis gave Saturn a look that clearly said, "I really don't care."

"How do I feel about this?" Shuu asked Seiji, who watched the scene with a grimace.

"I'll let you know once I figure how I feel," he answered. Ryo sighed, rubbing the back of his head.

"Well, we can't sit here all day acting like he's going to attack us."

"Although that is a good possibility," Shuu pointed out as Anubis gave Saturn another leer over his shoulder. Uranus laughed, her arm around Saturn as she tried to comfort the distressed girl.

"Oh come on," she was saying, oblivious to the glare Pluto was throwing at her, "let the old woman have her fun!"

"Let's just try to make the best out of this." Ryo saluted the party staying behind with Kayura. "We'll be back soon."

And they were off. Kayura was the first to retreat back into the palace; one-by-one, the others also left. Rajura and Neptune both stayed behind, watching them depart until they could no longer be seen. She tried to quell the coldness in her chest as she turned back to the palace. Saturn's words lingered in her mind, replaying endlessly.

"Michiru-mama, take care of yourself."

There had been no reason for her to say that, Neptune thought.

"You are troubled as well at their leaving," Rajura said, jarring her out of her thoughts. She turned to the one-eyed man, wondering why he was still there.

"It isn't every day I send my comrades off into battle," she said plainly, hiding her emotions easily.

"You are more astute than that." Rajura turned to her. She was surprised at the serious gaze he had; she had only assumed he was working with them for the sake of the following Kayura's orders. "What did she say to you before she left?"

Neptune's stare grew colder. "Is that any of your business?"

"I am making it my business."

Neptune stiffened. "I don't know what happened this past month you were with her," she said, her tone as cutting as possible, "and I don't quite care—"

"She expressed her concern that she and the Guardian Pluto will die," Rajura interrupted, his voice was just as icy. Neptune broke off, staring at him. Her breath caught in her throat.

"Explain."

"I believe this is the first time she has transformed in quite awhile?" Rajura watched for any hint of expression on Neptune's face. "I don't have to explain it to you. She harbors the power of ruin within her. In order to use that power and not destroy the world, she will have to rely on the Guardian Pluto to open a dimensional gate to seal her in."

Silence. Neptune stared at him so furiously that he was almost taken aback. This was just a repeat of everything, she thought. From the battle with Pharaoh 90... And what kind of parent was she that she hadn't caught on? What kind of mother overlooked details like that? She turned away, clenching her hands into fists. "Hotaru told you all of this?"

Rajura didn't have to answer. She looked at him and knew he was telling the truth.

"'Take care of yourself.' That's what she said." Speaking the words out loud had a chilling effect. Neptune found it hard to swallow, now that she knew what the words really meant. Rajura paused before he inclined his head.

"And for her sake, I hope that you do."

an ugh so many characters and longest chapter in the world ;;; and... does anyone have evidence of the senshi referring to sailor moon as just "moon"? for some reason, i typed it out as that and it just didn't feel right (hence the "sailor moon" vs "mercury/mars").

as always, thank you for reading! xo