A/N: Hey guys it's me again with chapter 13! Things are going slower since my wonderful brain likes to give me writers block. I have a plan for TSK, or at least I thought i had one. When i had started writing it I had planned it to be made up of 5 story arcs, each roughly 15 to 20 chapters in length. Now i find myself at a crossroads. I love working on TSK and will continue to do so, however arc 1 will be ending in two chapters. What I want to know from you all is this: Do you want me to place all 5 arcs under one story, or do you want me to break up the arcs like I had planned to do in the first place. just let me know when you review. Either way I will continue the series, I just want to know what would be mostly preferred.
Why do i have to go through this EVERY SINGLE TIME!!!!! I don't own Sailor Moon. If I did I wouldn't be here writing Fan Fiction would I?
Chapter 13: Inexplicable Occurrences!
It was mid afternoon at the shrine as the Senshi sat around inside Rei's room with the door closed for a private meeting. The subject matter revolving around the children, and the song that had engulfed them earlier. It would stand to reason the children would react in such ways dealing with the planets were so used too abiding by. Even so, it didn't lessen the drama everyone faced as a result. In fact all it did was place everyone on higher edge. A song of such sorrow had the ability to be sung by voices of children, their children. The fact that they could comprehend it, was what boggled the minds of their parents the most.
Usagi had gone to visit her mother while Chibiusa decided to stay behind to relax around the shrine. Since no Senshi was to go wandering off alone, Makoto and Yasu followed along quickly. This left Ami to deal with a small sleeping Hotaru that currently occupied her lap. Chibiusa had over heard the conversation for quite some time, and decided to make her thoughts known. Currently the bluenette was the only one outside of the loud room. She could hear in, and occasionally added her two cents to the topic via her communicator to keep her voice to a minimum.
"If I may," The future princess spoke quietly setting next to Ami "I find that you are looking at this as if they lost every thing. I know they haven't and you know it too, but they don't know this place very well. It's not the same as the moon kingdom, and I don't imagine they would find any of this easy. With that said however, you will be what they remember one day, it just happens to be taking longer than they would like."
"Indeed, however we don't really know what it is that makes this time so different. I'm sure it would include a great many factors. We just don't know what they are, and you would know far better than most." the Senshi of water spoke quietly. If they could get any type of helpful information out of this talk then she would gladly listen.
Fidgeting for only a moment Chibiusa thought carefully. She had greatly matured in her ability to think things through, a trait that still eluded her mother a little. The little girl could retain simple logic far easier, and her willingness to actually sit and think things through was very helpful in times like this. Surely the increase in maturity came from the fact she was raised to rule to a kingdom from the start, unlike Usagi, who was raised to be a normal member of society after her rebirth.
"Well, the earth is like the moon in quite a few ways, that's why it was easer for me when I had come here the first time. Yasu is used to the ways of Jupiter mostly, but that's due to Makoto's influence I would think. She likes to be on the move, constantly causing havoc. Mercury is a quiet place mostly, and because of the order retained there, she hardly dealt with it well." Chibiusa said thinking carefully about what changes could be made to have Yasu settle into herself the way she should have. "I also tend to think the main reasons she's not happy is the fact of location. This is a shrine, a far cry from the wooden armor and metal houses often found on Jupiter. If you think about it earth has many elements regarding each planet. All you need to figure out is how to incorporate what you know into a possible solution."
"We would love too." Rei piped up from behind the door, clearly listening in. "Anyway, aside from what we saw in the past we have no idea what we are dealing with. We can all agree the way of life differs greatly, but how can we incorporate each of their homes into daily life so easily. This is earth after all."
Chibiusa thought for a moment, smiled and walked away. Raised eyebrows and quiet utterances of confusion spilled from the lips of the older Senshi. Minako was highly perturbed by such a troublesome look and made her view known. Michiru held a simple confusion but remained quiet, and Ami just sat quietly not really dwelling on what the young girl had said. She returned quickly with a thick textbook, a smile on her face as she handed it to Rei.
"Galaxy History and Geography? What is this thing?" Rei said as she looked at the thick text book in confusion. It looked like a school book, yet it was different than what she was used too. Scanning through the pages Rei noticed something that seemed off.
None of the photos of Mars looked like the place she visited. The book showed the land in a far different light, as if it had people living there. It confused her to see her home planet allow such a way of life. More details showed places of worship and other things that while Rei had heard people speak of she had never scene.
"That's a text book from when I had to study. It's of no use to me now, but you all may find something of value in it. I can't really explained how each planet lived since they all had differing ways of life but, that may help some." Chibiusa said as she quietly excused herself to go walk about the shrine leaving that adults to themselves.
"Well this looks promising. What exactly does that thing say about your planet Rei?" Michiru asked while looking past raven tresses to see a few photos for herself.
"A lot, where the hell do you want me to start? It looks like this book goes into more detail than what we could possibly use." Rei sighed as she handed the book to Haruka and took her place back at the door frame.
"Actually, this book may be helpful. Take a look at this…" The tall blond said as she scanned over her planet. Clothing styles among other things, were different for each planet. It would stand to reason that climate and other conditions made it important to adapt to the planet accordingly.
"Ok, so you all look like you wanted to look like birds for a living. What the hell does that have to do with the importance of your planet?" Rei sighed missing the point entirely.
"My planet was the aeronautic capitol, we lived in these airship things. When me and Mari went to go see the planet there was no ground. I assume the feathers are some sort of protection of the elements we faced." Haruka explained as she flipped back to Rei's planet and shoved the book back in her direction. "Look for yourself."
Taking a careful look at the page she was presented she noted her people wore a long fur cloak with hoods. It was most likely to keep all the random dust out of their eyes. She also noticed that large animals stood along side them. Her people were nomadic and that explained the lack of large cities. The book went into greater detail to note the flora and fauna. All the life seemed to be able to withstand the harsh conditions and little water that Mars offered.
"All of this information is well and good, but what can we do with any of it? This is earth, not Mars." Rei sighed as she put the book back in the middle of the table. Ami was lost in her mind once again with deep ponderings, and it didn't go unnoticed.
"Alright, I know that look. Say some thing about what ever it is your thinking about." Minako said poking at the bluenette with a pencil to get her out of her outward stupor.
"I'm not thinking too hard really. You all just made a fine point that I wanted to take note of. While it is true we may not be able to use all of the information that's in this book, we can use it as a guide. There are places on earth with the same conditions as each of our planets. We don't have to mimic everything. Lets just read up on each planet to see where it is they are coming from, clearly we all missed a step someplace." Ami said as she noted Minako's extreme discomfort for the countless time today. "As for you, why are you in so much pain today?" Ami asked as she stood up to get closer to her blond friend, passing Hotaru off to Michiru in the process.
"Don't ask me! Your the wannabe doctor!" Minako said as she clenched her teeth once again. Out of all of the Senshi pregnancies Minako was moving along the fastest, It was odd to even think that a power merger could speed up a pregnancy so much. Even so, it was painfully obvious that this wouldn't be anywhere near close to nine month time span.
"Rei, do me a huge favor and look up the planet of Venus, after you've done that see if you can find out about reproduction. Then do the same for Mars, I want to know if this has any normalcy at all, or, if Minako and the baby are in real trouble." Ami ordered as she and Haruka helped their friend to the bed.
Rei quickly flung the pages around looking for any of the information that would be needed, however in her now panicked state it was impossible to scan the words correctly. Haruka quietly walked out of the room as too not create a scene only to have Luna by the scruff of the neck upon returning. "See that? I know you know why this is happening, so unless you want to become a rug I suggest you explain." The blond growled in sure annoyance.
"Would you relax! You can stop acting as if this isn't normal." Luna shot back as Haruka dropped her to the floor. "This is simply a sign of the sped up pregnancy. After all, the baby does carry the blood of a Senshi. This little one must have more of Venus in her." Luna said taking note of the orange light protruding from Minako's midriff.
"More of Venus?" Ami asked as she typed away at her computer. "What do you mean by that? I thought the power merger was equal." This earned a round of whispers in agreement leaving Luna to explain carefully.
"While it is true the power merger is almost fully equal the children still have dominant and recessive traits. It seems for example while your children seem to take the look and powers of both parents, it's clear that each has a planet they hold in higher regard. For Yumi that planet was Mars, meaning she will most likely be called to that deity when the time comes, Venus will still need a heir though, and this little one seems to be showing signs that she could be it." Luna said with a soft smile.
"Well that's all well and good but why does this hurt so damned much!" Minako said between gritted teeth before another thought came to mind through her excessive pain. "What about Yumi she's the one in charge of combat." The blond growled before biting down on her lip to stifle what would have been a very loud scream before the pain started to dull again.
"Yumi can lead just fine as the heir to Mars, there is no law to dictate the combat leader, usually it is the one who is able to take charge and lead in battle from a young age, that is normally why each planet sticks to traditional situations when producing an heir. I also assume that's why the planets your children chose were the ones they visited the most." Luna said placing a paw on Minako in an attempt to soothe her.
That was when the others burst into Rei's room with Makoto dragging Saeko along quickly. Usagi was the first to catch her breath enough to speak. "We came as soon as we heard! What's going on!" The blond asked in a rush as she went to Minako's side.
"Nothing is going on yet Usagi. Apparently this is just the power merger we were expecting." Minako said calming her friend down now that she was used to the dull throbbing that still coursed through her. The majority of the pain seemly had subsided.
"That kind of thing will happen every now and then. It's nothing to worry about as long as you see some type of light being given off. That indicates that the Senshi powers are merging together. It can be painful sometimes, but there's nothing we can really do to stop it from happening." Luna said in affirmation that this was nothing to worry about.
After a few more scans from the ice nine Minako requested to be alone for a while for some much needed rest. Rei and Luna stayed behind to keep watch while the others busied themselves with other tasks. Usagi was a handful to keep amused since she still insisted on watching Minako as if she were some sort of time bomb. Finally at the excuse of baby shopping she was dragged away from the shrine. In the mean time Yumi was in careful thought on how to deal with Hotaru. She had aged spastically and at the moment appeared to be around the age of eight, memories that were vital such as vocabulary and motor skills were implanted into the child's head as she grew to accommodate for the fast aging.
She also seemed to have a memory development of things that would have happened if she had aged normally. Her closeness to Chibiusa was an expectation so it's didn't surprise Yumi to see actions play out. What did worry Yumi was what planet would be best to attune to Hotaru. In the meantime however she knew now a curtain time mage was meddling in ways she shouldn't be.
"Saria, come out of hiding. I know you're here." The small blond sighed as the time mage came out of the tree she was hiding in. Saria looked different. A clear sign she did what Yumi had fully expected her too do, much to the dismay of the leader in combat. "I told you not to do it, and what do you do? You defy my orders again."
"Someone had to fulfill the task. There will be time for another Pluto to come to pass. We needed a Saturn now." Saria said as she held her weapon firmly in place. It was still the scythe she was so skillful to have, however it was no longer a key. The bottom of the weapon was no longer blunt, but, held another blade. One that used to mirror Hotaru's old one.
"You do realize this was not in the planning, correct?" Yumi sighed as she faced down the much older Senshi in front of her. "Your feelings allowed you to become Saturn, but that doesn't mean I agree to this. I can not believe you pulled this stunt. I hope you at least told Setsuna."
With a nod the older girl gave affirmation. "Yes, not only did I tell her, she helped me complete the task. Saturn is in hibernation, and Hotaru will no longer accelerate once she ages to about ten. This was the gift of Saturn bestowed to me when I completed the task."
In Saria's hands she held two things. One was a bracelet, it had the name of every Senshi who was Saturn before her. Hotaru's name was also engraved. This signified the fact that many were Saturn before her. Her name would one day also become engraved in piece of metal when her heart could no longer bare the responsibility. The other was a coin in the shape of a hand. it had the index finger pointing outward as if to indicate a person or object, on it was one word, Blame.
This word not only accounted for Saria, but for all the Senshi who were at one time Saturn. They were belittled, hated, feared, everything but accepted. It was also known to Saria that only those who hated themselves could become the deity of such malice. The carrier of the deity sought punishment for a wrong in their life, often it consumed them. Saturn was the gift to give back to the world around them, an willingly help others, at the cost of an unhappy life. However should a planet need to suffer for something, it was also the job of Saturn to see that atonement would be carried out. Often the crime of such a punishment resulted in not only the destruction of life for the planet, it also meant the rebirth. The deity of Saturn welcomed only those willing to fully accept the punishment and hardship one would face. Finally when the soul had suffered enough no longer would they wield Saturn as a deity. It was only when they could no longer blame themselves for the crime they committed that the soul would move on.
It was because of the flexibility in what blame actually was that allowed Saturn to accept a great many as a carrier. This why as long as one would fully accept everything that made the deity what it was, the power had no issue to convert to a different soul. Saria not only had the ability to blame many, and point her finger, she also inwardly blamed herself for everything she was unable to stop, so many people she was unable to save.
"I can not believe Setsuna allowed you to do this." Yumi said shaking her head. Saria was correct though, on all counts. Not only was Saria able to wield the deity willingly, there would be plenty of time for Setsuna to produce an heir. It was common knowledge that those with a mage bloodline could live well over ten-thousand years as long as they stayed in good health.
"She did though, and that's all that matters. She has her gift as well, After she finishes what ever it is she's doing at the gates it will seal off now that it has no planet power to govern." Saria said as she turned to the shrine. "She said she intends to make a three way paradox."
Yumi's face paled when she thought carefully at Saria's implications. "WHAT! Your joking right? That'll get her into deep shit with the time god! She better have a good excuse."
"She does." Saria said in exasperation, though she lost her powers as a mage when she accepted Saturn as her deity she still retained her knowledge on the gates and the reason Setsuna pulled the stunt she did. "Think of it. If she can manipulate the flow of time enough in the present the babies will be born before the ice. If she can manipulate that same time flow in the future there will be no need for the ice. With the time gates totaled and no longer in use there will be no reason for any of the past to ever repeat itself." Saria said as if she just explained simple logic and nothing more.
This would have been fine if someone hadn't overheard. Primarily Ami who grasped exactly what it was they were trying to accomplish, and also why Saria claimed the deity she did. "Of all the times for Setsuna to pull an idiotic stunt it just has to be now! Even if it is crazy, it's not ill planned. She plans to make it so the future will carry out as preordained without the past getting in the way. I'll go farther to point that she's not worried about the trouble she could get into, is she Saria?" She questioned with a critical eye.
"Your right on the money." Saria nodded with a soft smile. "I have done the task given, I have accepted my job as Saturn, and with it, I have accepted my first pact. When the time comes, I'll leave for a little while, not forever, just a little while. My rebirth dictates I'll be around for the 30th century. You all will have the time of peace you wanted, and the large families to go along with it. The queen will ascend with little issues, and if your lucky one day you may get to ally with the man that is her brother. The future will have done as it should have, albeit a few changes, and I can guarantee you all will have a brighter future." with that Saria pulled out a backpack from a bush near the shrine wall. It was packed and ready too go, this was also well planned it seemed.
"Why do you always do that!" Yumi yelled in annoyance "You always leave like this! First it's them, now it's you! Damn it Saria! You know better than to keep going off on your own!" Yumi said as she grasped the backpack to slow down the departure. "You think you know what's best! Turn around and confront me! That's an order Saria!" Yumi yelled.
Normally the request would have been obeyed without question, but now it was only Usagi or Minako that Saria owed her allegiance too at the moment. She served under the current princess, and currently that was not Chibiusa, but the child's mother Usagi. "I no longer obey your call Yumi, please take care of the others, they are who need your guidance, not me."
"Then what about me!" Usagi called out, she felt the distress from inside the shrine and had been watching closely. The powers of the moon had been collecting more and more power, making it easier for Usagi to sense when emotional disturbances were around. Sometimes it was a blessing, other times all it did was add to the havoc.
Saria turned around and responded to the woman she was now fated to protect. "My future queen." Saria said as she knelt before Usagi as the queen she would one day become. "Is there something I can do to offer you my aide?"
"You can tell me why I see Yumi crying, and why Chibiusa seems very distressed even if she won't act on it." Usagi said as she removed the backpack from the girl in front of her.
"As you can see, I have taken Saturn's deity. All will be fixed shortly I can assure you. I have accepted a pact that will give light to the moon kingdom, though I can not speak it out loud. Only in confidence would the words protrude my lips, and only to that of royalty I serve, if you wish too know, it must not be spoken in the presence of others." Saria said quietly and obediently.
"Are you really going to leave here? Then come with me and we will take a nice long walk in the park. I don't wish for you to make any rash choices. I'll just carry this for you until you are ready to make your departure. We wouldn't want you to get tired easily." Usagi said as she took hold of the back pack. She had matured greatly in the past few weeks and it was a very large wake up call for everyone that perhaps the future was closer than they all thought.
As the two walked off in the distance Yumi went to find the others as Ami sat in deep thought. The older Senshi came out from the Shrine and were given the briefing that Ami knew about. No one knew what to say or how exactly to say it. No one really knew what would happen when time became a paradox. It was a fearful thought to say the least.
When Yumi had enough time to herself she went to find Minako. "Are you ready to visit our guardian planet? We must get the gift before you become unable to travel." Yumi said as she sighed.
"Are you sure you want to go?" Minako asked when she noted Yumi wasn't in the most calm of states. The wordless nod in replay was as good as any, and to further make her point known Yumi pulled her mother up to stand noting she was still in a small bit of pain.
"We must go before it's too late. Mari will complete her task when Michiru is able. It seems you are not the only one feeling the merger of the power effects. What ever it is Setsuna is doing, it's now effecting this time enough to warrant random age changes. As we saw within Usagi today, it won't be long until what ever it is they have planned comes along full circle." When Yumi finished she threw down the orb that contained the orange power of Venus and helped her motherly figure through the light.
On the other side was the planet that used to be known for its riches. Gold lined the streets and even though it was deserted, it was by no means in shambles compared to the stories of how the other planets looked. The houses were built with minerals and crystals of high value, even hard metals and stone were sculpted to perfection.
"I lived in this place? I don't remember it being so expensive looking." Minako said in wonder as she took in the scenery. It truly was beautiful, and the diamonds that studded the more expensive housings made it look like the planet shimmered in the stars.
"Yes, though most of the time you were on the moon, this was your place of birth. As you can see, even in this ruined state it is no where near the harsh conditions the other planets faced. We have no need to go to the forging point of the crystal since this entire planet is built up of the same substances, smashing it anyplace will do." Yumi said as Minako nodded.
She took one look at her crystal before throwing it to the ground allowing more of her light to envelop them. A large gem encrusted box lifted from the ground, covered in gold. When she approached the box she noted the craftsmanship. Slowly and gently she lifted the top and found the inside lined with velvet. Inside was her gift, a locket. It was etched in fine delicate metals and attached to a golden chain. Inside was left empty with a small paper note saying 'fill with love'. and next too it still in the red velvet was her coin in the shape of five figures. Her word was Sister.
She though long and hard of what that would mean for her. She had a large family, unlike her Senshi counter parts her blood relatives were everywhere. It wasn't exactly closely knit, but the family was very large and spanned the globe. Some in America, others scattered the UK and Japan. Out of all of the scouts she was the one with the biggest family by relation. Thinking on it carefully, she also noted that she wasn't very close to most of them. She hardly knew most of them, and if she was honest with her self, she really didn't mind not knowing who they were.
She was like Ami in that way, happy to muse about family she never sees. Then she thought about Usagi, and how she looked like her twin, jokingly calling each other sister on occasion. She thought of Makoto and how many times they had saved each others sorry butt over the years. All of the encouragement and slight rivalry they had. She thought about Rei and all the love she had for her, and how much like a family they all were to each other. It was then she realized, they were her family of Senshi. Sisters in arms, to protect the ones they loved. She also noted, that Venus and Earth were noted to be sister planets. The moon came from the earth. When she thought about it everything clicked into one galactic puzzle piece.
Minako closed her eyes as Yumi approached and when she closed her eyes slow darkness covered their surroundings before they found the shrine before them. Mari was standing next to Michiru as they spoke in a hushed whisper. When Minako took a closer look at the Neptunian before her she noticed that something was odd, she was different somehow.
"Michiru? Is that really you?" The blond asked astounded as she took note of longer aqua tresses and slightly taller frame. She didn't look older, but she did look far more sophisticated, not that the woman had any trouble in the department to begin with. It wasn't only her body that changed, her attire did as well. Light netted cloth covered her torso, barely doing enough to cover her more feminine futures. Small shells lined the bottom hem at her feet, and the shall she wore was of thicker netting draped in aqua. She truly looked like a maiden of the sea.
"Yes it's me. I was quite surprised as well, however if you think this is amazing go see our princess, she came back from the walk recently, and to top it off she's been very mysterious ever since. She's been using the crystal to help us along, it was one of the things Saria asked her too do, though she won't say just why." Michiru spoke in her graceful voice as she took note once again at the changes happening within her and her fellow Senshi with her slender eyebrow raised as she looked towards the shrines tree.
When Minako followed the gaze she saw Haruka, her tall frame strong and valiant just like knight. Her hair was still cropped short and very neatly groomed as it tussled lightly with the light breeze. She seemed quiet and calm, serine in more ways than a racer of her caliber was known for. She wore a white suit with a yellow feather cloak to match. On her hip was the space sword and on her back rest the shield. While the changes in her seemed subtle it was very clear to Minako that Haruka had changed in other ways too, not only in the form of dress. she had a presence that demanded attention, perhaps the tall blond had grown in strength. She noted next to Haruka stood Rei. How different she looked largely caught Minako off guard.
Her hair was long, and she had grown her bangs to frame her face. It was pulled back into a tail at the base of her neck with a very thin band. Her long slender legs were extremely toned, and she seemed to have gained more definition in her abdomen and arms. She too had changed in height slightly, and surely her attire matched the planet on which she grew. She wore a priestess garb not largely different than normal. On her shoulder perched the very young raven. She had a bow of flame at one side, though for odd reasons it seems to not be burning the cloth Rei donned. On her back was a hooded cloak made of thick fur, no doubt to help keep the dry sands of Mars away from her face.
Ami sat on the other side, truly looking like an ice queen. Had Minako not known her friend so well by now, she would have assumed Ami was a bitter cold woman full of spite. She wore a dress that looked to be made from ice crystals, on her feet were clear heels to match. She wasn't very toned at all in terms of fighting, in fact, she looked extremely delicate compared to the others. She wasn't much taller, but she had grown in the bust slightly and had a figure expected of a young woman. Not fully an hourglass, but no longer did she look like the brainy school girl. If Minako was honest even she was intimidated by the way Ami looked. Her lips donned a blue color one would have though would be non existent in a normal store and the barely there eyeliner accented her eyes wonderfully. With the computer resting on one hand, and a glass of water in the other, it was only the truly happy smile she gave when Makoto embraced her that showed the woman behind the mask.
Speaking of Makoto, she was quite the sight to take in. Her hair was a hell of a lot shorter than Minako remembered it to be, cut jagged as if someone had placed it in a ponytail and chopped it off at the base with a sharp knife. Now the longest strands rested at the tip of her shoulder, while the shorter strands rested in a zigzag pattern layering nicely. The two longest strands that normally framed her face were not cut, but instead braided, one was icy blue, the other, a shocking green. Her clothing underneath was a simple green Gi, and on top of it a breastplate of thin woven tree bark offered protection. She had a cloak of woven vines across her back and her Lance rested on a diagonal line tied by the very same lines as her cloak. She was far taller in height and the muscles in her arms and legs far out matched any of the other Senshi. She now stood taller than Haruka by at least a good inch. Surprisingly she didn't look that odd considering who it was she currently had her arms wrapped around.
When Minako felt a tender hand touch her shoulder she turned around to see Saeko at her side. Saeko had not changed in appearance, however she did gain the icy form of clothing Ami wore. Though it was not a dress, it was an army uniform, not the armor used for fighting, more formal for every day affairs. Six buttons in two rows of three clasped a white blazer, with it's light blue boarder. The pants she wore were neatly pressed and the small click of heeled boots offered an interesting perspective. Her gloves were darker blue and at her side was that same clear blue sword.
"Holy crap! You too? What is Usagi thinking? I mean you look amazing and all, but why is she doing this?" Minako asked as she took in the appearance of the Mercurian.
"I would assume it has too do with what Saria told her, though I'm not exactly sure. She won't tell anyone what happened. All she told me was simple information, and to be ready. I'm not sure what it all means, but I can assure you, She's really starting to mature more and more as the queen you all willingly speak of. Take a look." Saeko said as she pointed behind her to the shrines door.
When Minako entered she wasn't expecting to be standing before what looked to be royalty. At least not yet. There sat Usagi primed and proper, her dress was the same one she wore on the moon Kingdome long ago, so that wasn't out of normalcy. What had caught Minako off guard was the fact that her friend had a seemingly perfect air about her. Very serene and calm, the gentle smile on her face made it increasingly hard to believe that this was the same person who would trip over a non existent pebble in the ground.
"Ah, Minako! I was wondering when you would return!" Usagi said as she got too her feet and proceeded towards Minako only to trip on her dress.
"Nice to know some things are the same around here." Minako sighed as she helped out the royal klutz. "Care to explain to me why everyone seems to have transformed somehow?" Minako asked as she joined Usagi back at the coffee table.
"Yes, I guess you and I should speak on it. Saria told me to not reveal a lot of information too everyone else, but she did say I could discuss it with you. After that she said it would be in your hands how to handle the situation." Usagi said as she sipped on a piping hot drink offering Minako a mug of the same. Hot chocolate was always a favorite among both blonds and it was comforting to Minako that what ever was going on still head some familiarity. "I assume you are aware by now I'm not the only one who has changed in appearance."
Minako could only nod in agreement. "I did take note of that, Yes. My question being what exactly is going on? Is this apart of the ice to come, or, is it something else entirely?" Minako could often remember the conversations of the past, in a way it was nice to relive a conversation not fueled by the teenaged idiocy. Often times in the past it would only be the two of them.
"It would seem that Setsuna is planning to do something to recall the ice for now. She apparently thinks that it can be prevented, also the gates will be destroyed fully soon, and with it, any chance possible for us to visit the past. The coins you have all received apparently hold significant value, though Saria was very vague. From what I understand they wish for a new timeline to take hold." Usagi explained as she lightly twirled her drink in very careful thought.
"Hmm. Well I have a feeling we don't need to worry about Hotaru anymore, Saria seems to have taken the emotional weight, she's, become almost consumed in distressing pain. Then again, it was to be expected. Still I hadn't gotten full confirmation, she seems to have embraced her task fully, so I think we need not worry. What I do see deep concern with, is the fact that they seem to see hope in a different timeline." The Senshi of love thought long and hard. The coin had value, they had a new plan. It was her task to keep Usagi safe and as such it, the importance to know exactly what Setsuna had been planning increased by the moment. "Do you think we will have to worry that their preparation was in vain? I don't wish to fall by the galactic war that plagued the future."
Usagi shook her head. "That's what I wanted to be sure of myself. What they are suggesting actually holds merit. You know, it seems like each and every time we rule our own planets we also succeed in creating small civil war zones? Well, they propose that perhaps that's where the main issues are. We are all very set in each of our ways, each planet seems to have customs that others can not, or simply, will not accept because of direct confliction."
"I agree, in fact that was a rant of mine in the past as well. Do they have an idea to correct it? At this point I'm up for any new ideas." Minako said in a sigh, she knew how hard it was to keep peace among their own planets let alone anyplace out of their territory.
"Yes they do. Though I must admit, I'm still slightly worried." Usagi said as she set down her mug and made careful eye contact with Minako, her eyes full of concern. "Life will one day return to all planets. It has been proven that not everyone can coexist without accommodations made to help those who are not native to each. This poses two issues. One is that due to such extremes those who must visit the consulate not on their planet are often in danger, or become inferior. The second is, as my Senshi you must reside on the moon with me, however where does that leave your planets?"
"It leaves them screwed up the rear-end, I know that all too well." Minako said simply, it was one of the reasons she remembered what happened in the past so well. It was never easy on any of them to leave their homes only to return when there were meetings to hold and fights to stop.
"Exactly, that's why they think the Senshi should not reside on the moon, but on earth. Saria believes since we all came here this time around a consolidate should be built where it would be the norm to reside on your respective planets. The conditions could be adaptive and it would allow a galactic merger." Usagi said as she adjusted herself on the sofa and carefully thought about whether or not to voice the next part. Minako knew she was holding something back and her silence gave way as if to inquire what exactly it was her friend and future queen happened to be hiding. After a few moments her quiet inquiry received an answer. "Also, I know now for a fact that reincarnations of the dark moon reside here along with us. More will be born over time. What Saria plans is to awaken them, pact with them and build forces from the underground up. Over time families will be born and over many generations a new era can start anew."
"Alright, I can see the reasons to view these actions as ones for concern. In saying that we also have to trust that no one will betray us, I don't think they would, not to be harmful. Lets just let things play out for now. I will not say anything too the others, however I assume I'm next on your list to transform, so get on with it." Minako said trying to lighten the mood, nothing more could be done at the moment and she knew worrying would only place everyone on edge.
Usagi wordlessly stood and nodded about to start the transformation before she remembered an important detail. "Before I do this, there's something you should know that I've already told the others. If I do transform you into a true native of the planet you were apart of no one knows what will change or how. Are you sure you want to do this now Minako?"
"Yes, I know I do. You act as if something bad will happen, I trust you with my life just like always. So please, don't worry, just go ahead and do it." She encouraged her friend. If they were going to do this, Minako was sure didn't want it to be halfway. She vowed to go to hell and back with the Senshi and her queen, many times she had been already. It didn't matter how much would change, as long as they were together.
At that Usagi didn't hesitate and closed her eyes holding the crystal in her hands. She whispered something that Minako couldn't quite hear as the light started to engulf her senses, she was not aware of the area around her, only that she knew in her heart she would be ok. After a few moments she felt a warmth embrace her and she knew it was her friend. Soft tears trickled down her cheeks, and Minako could tell that Usagi still had a small amount of that teenaged crybaby in her. Even if her tears were more heartfelt.
After she had calmed her sniffling friend, she took in her own appearance that she had forgotten had changed. Her attire consisted of a dress of white silk, lined lightly with a hint of gold. Completed shawl that graced her shoulders and heels lined with many fine metals she truly was beautiful. Her hair was only a little longer than it had been before, still in her signature bow. It was seemingly childish to have such a bow in her hair and when she removed it her hair cascaded across her face, leaving her even more breathtakingly beautiful than before.
"This is so far from that I had thought I would look like." Minako smiled in awe. Surely she hadn't looked like this in the olden days. Then again, no one looked exactly as they did back then and it seemed this too must be a change in the timeline.
"So this is where you snuck off too." Rei said as she entered the room, smiling as she turned to address Usagi. "Ami is looking for you, apparently there is something she wishes to talk about with only you. Not even Makoto knows what this is all about." After Usagi nodded slightly she went in search of the bluenette. She was becoming so attuned to her Senshi she already knew exactly what this was about. She could feel every single emotion each of them held within their hearts, and at the moment Ami's was that of worry, and perhaps a hint of uncertainty.
The bluenette had wandered aimlessly through the Shrine and the vast grounds. The wooded area behind it was where the kids were playing over the watchful eye of Makoto, who was teaching them the art of her favorite sport, basketball. She had spent the majority of the afternoon restless, for no apparent reason.
"Ami? Are you ok?" Usagi asked when she noted the far off look her friend had. It was not one of deep contemplation like normal, and not one of a daydream. More like she was trying to figure out exactly what she was thinking at the time. This confused her blond friend greatly.
"I guess I am. Well, perhaps not totally, but I'm not feeling unwell either. I just…" Ami trailed off. She didn't know how to place her thoughts, her feelings for Makoto were very strong, however after her transformation she, as well as the other Senshi noticed a very strong pull towards their future queen, and it made her uneasy. Turning to the one she was supposed to protect her eyes were unclear. "Why, do I feel like this, why do we all seem to now have even stronger feelings for you?"
"I am not sure of that myself, but, I can feel that emotion within you all. It is a feeling of purity so I do not feel a sense of fear from it, nor should any of you." Usagi said her voice calm. "However, I know at the moment, this feeling worries you. Then again anything having to do with deep emotions do, so I don't know why I should be surprised." Usagi said looking deep into the blue eyes that questioned her, perhaps even dared her to prove herself. Little did she know her own eyes were that of a question too, the one that was plaguing her very mind.
"Don't you worry what will happen if we all love you? Don't you worry what will happen if that love one day surpasses what even Mamoru can give? Rei was already on that boarder before, as were two others. Even so, we knew what fate had in store for you, and that's what made the ones that loved you so much pull away and move on. Now it would be so easy to give into that desire, but at what cost. The love of their families? The risk of hurting each other? There is not a single one of us who would not come to your call, but for those with that depth of love, it's that much harder to watch when he does." Ami said as emotions she couldn't begin to explain with clarity before took over her speech. It was so easy to become lost in this confusion she had. Surely she loved Makoto, but, she too had feelings for Usagi. She knew the other's did as well to a large degree, however Ami was uncertain of what to make of the feelings that had now grown stronger.
"I don't doubt it would be hard. Ami, you know I would willingly give whatever you would need. You know I would offer you anything even heart and soul, Mamoru knows this, as do the others. I know about Rei, so does Minako. That's why their relationship works so well. Minako knows Rei loves me in a romantic way, and they know that Rei can have that love while still loving each other as well. They are truthful in their relationship, and that honesty is what allows Minako that faith that we can both be loved equally. Even if Rei won't act on her emotions, she knows the look in Rei's eyes. My love is not unattainable, I too hold strong emotions for you all. Even Makoto can sense your feelings towards me as well, and she's indifferent to it overall. She doesn't mind." Usagi said in a comforting tone.
She knew her friend feared hurting others. She also knew since Ami was the first one to stand by her side as a Senshi her emotions would most likely be stronger. It came to no surprise that over time those feelings would begin to warrant the need to feel intimacy. She had assumed that like Rei she was happy to push them to the back of her mind, and find a love someplace else. Makoto offered that love, in vast amounts, and it was all too clear in that love came understanding. Ami and Rei were friends before the other's even met, and that's why they both shared the mentality. That was why Minako and Makoto offered support in any way they could. Offering love to those that loved them, silently understanding that they weren't the only ones that took residence in the hearts of the women they loved.
"I know." Ami said as a smile graced her lips, she had long figured out that Makoto also sought the love of another, it was just harder to point out unless you truly knew her. "She also wants to seek solace in another's arms. She's just afraid of coming out with the truth as I am. I think we both know, but we don't want to speak on such feelings. The thought of committing adultery never sat well with us, so we just choose not to say a word. Even so, I can't fault her for wishing to be embraced by her. though, I wonder where she got that particular interest from." Ami said with a small smile. She knew well of Makoto's little secret by now. It had been a run on joke at first between the two of them. Then it grew into a truth, Makoto had always had a level of fascination with Sailor V, though she would never outwardly admit it until Ami had found a few of her dirty manga one morning a few years back. It never really bothered Ami that Makoto read such things even years later. What did bother her was the types of intercourse that happened to take place in the reading material. If one really thought about it, in the lives of the Senshi finding a enemy like the ones in the manga wasn't out of the realm of possibility.
With one arched eyebrow Usagi looked at her in a joking tone. "You know, It's not necessarily a crime for her, perhaps an escape. I believe in a way we all had a sort of bisexual curiosity towards Minako at first. I know I did. Then when I found out I was Sailor Moon, all the glamour of a super hero life was cast away." She said as she searched her friends eyes carefully. "Also, think of it this way. you would not be the only one to act out on feelings such as these. I know for a fact Mamoru has, and so have I. Just because I'm a princess doesn't mean I'm the total image of perfection everyone wants me to be, and you know what Ami?" She said as she embraced her friend who now held tears in her eyes whispering in her ear. "It's perfectly alright to just be a woman, with real feelings and emotions. You don't need to be a walking super computer you know. Just talk to Makoto about your insecurities, she would never hurt you, and she knows you would never hurt her."
With that bit of information passed down Usagi took her leave. Luna smiled from the inside of a bush. The princess had grown so well over the years, and within an even shorter time had matured wonderfully. Ami for her part just stood in silence not sure what to think. Perhaps it was better off that way..
That night the kids went to bed early, having been worn out from playing with Makoto. All of them were spread out on the floor in one massive heap using the brunette as one very large, haphazard body pillow. In a way it amused Saeko how the lack of order seemed to still have a relaxing feel too it, not that she would like walking through the rubble on a day to day occurrence. Snacks littered the floor, as people seemed to be totally fine passing out on the hard surfaces.
"Ah, this takes me back." Michiru said as she quietly laughed at the strewn room before her and the many sleeping bodies. "I never thought I would be graced with this sight again, but then, I guess some things really never change." She said as she too a seat looking for all the world content.
"I never thought you would be one to like disorderly conduct, then again look at Haruka." Saeko said with a raised eyebrow. Looking at Ami asleep with Rei's foot on her forehead changed her mind a bit. "You know, I'll be honest, all this randomness is good for her, even if I still can't wrap my head around all of it. I think I stopped trying, yet, I can't help but wonder about a lot of things."
"I know what you mean" Michiru said with a slight nod. "even so, I find this to be one of the best parts about being a Senshi. Haruka and I never had an opportunity to be so relaxed before we met Usagi, so it's times like this that we find are the most welcoming." Michiru laughed quietly as Saeko gave her an odd look.
"You mean to tell me you actually like seeing toys, food, and your very partner asleep in that tangled mass of your friends on the floor? Speaking of, what exactly was everyone doing to attain this level of destruction? I've never known Ami, or Makoto for that matter to like such a messy place to sleep." Saeko said picking up a sock that was laying in a puddle of soda that had been on a child's foot at one point or another to prove a point.
"Knowing these idiots like I know them? Well, I think it was a pillow fight that got out of hand. It's happened before, and I know for a fact that after that kind of thing everyone just sort of passes out. It used to annoy me, but when I saw everyone in a calm state I thought about how much like children we all can be. Even Haruka and myself. You know it's funny how much fun it can be to throw a cheese doodle at a loved one. What you see here is the aftermath." Michiru said as she smiled softly when Hotaru scooted closer to Chibiusa.
The night remained tranquil for a short time as no more words were spoken. It seemed relaxed for the first time. There were no thoughts on impending doom as the soft sounds of night invaded Saeko's ears. This was what she has first thought of when she had become a parent. A messy child, with messy friends, who loved to run amok. That was why when Ami's childhood mirrored hers for so long Saeko often forgot just how young Ami really was. Now thinking about how long they would live it made them all seem that much younger. What would have been a continued calm was abruptly stopped when a dark shadow flew past a nearby window lading on the ground outside with a loud crash, effectively waking up those that were asleep.
"What the hell?" Haruka said as she shot out of bed from the noise searching the area around her quickly before rushing by the window that Michiru currently occupied. The other Senshi were right on her heels. "What happened out there Michi?" The blond asked as she prepared herself for the worst possible news.
"I'm not sure. A black mass just flew past the window and landed outside. I'm not sure what it is." Michiru explained as they looked at the small hole that had been made in the ground outside. Now the area was calm just as before and nothing else seemed to be amiss.
"Alright! Yasu I want you to stay inside with Chibiusa and the others, your in charge of keeping everyone safe. Mari I want you to come with me, we need to check this out." Yumi ordered as she raced outside Mari was quick to follow. Inside Yasu took a more sedate approach.
"Well you heard her. Everyone stay in this room." The small girl said as she sighed and leaned into the door frame to be sure no one tried to leave without her knowing. She glanced around at the confused eyes and smiled slightly. This was nothing new to the children on the future, even Chibiusa seemed far more calm than any of the adults. Yasu gave her a look as if telling her to explain what it was that was going on, but it was not needed as Yumi came back highly annoyed.
"You know she doesn't need to blast this thing all they way from Pluto! All she had to do was used her damned communicator like a normal Senshi." Yumi said as she held up a scroll. "I thought we were going to have trouble, not need to fetch a stupid letter."
Rei quickly gained interest as looked at the slightly singed document. It was scribbled down quickly from the looks of it, but the message behind it was all too clear. As she read it aloud new meaning to what Senshi life would be was starting to take an obscure shape. One that not all of them knew how to deal with correctly.
Many things have changed due to the flow of time and because of this I am now unable to return for now. I will be back with you all one day, so please have faith I made the right choices. I have caused a rift in the time stream to cause a three way paradox, this will allow many good things to happen if you all can pull through the tough time ahead. There will be no ice. I made sure to eradicate any means for such an outcome to take hold. You now will follow the orders given to you by Yumi. She knows what's going on, even if she does not agree with the methods we used to attain the possible future you will work towards. Usagi knows only a small bit of what is too come and I'm sorry we could not give her more information. Please don't see Saria or I as traitors. we merely wanted to attempt to stop any possible wars to form like they had in the past, and this was the only way we knew how. Allow Yumi to guide you and all should be fine. You are all very capable people, and after she has given you the entire briefing I trust you will find a way to make what she says possible. I will stay here on Pluto and watch from a distance for now and offer guidance in anyway I can. That is all I can do currently, and I'm sorry I could not be there to help you all build this future firsthand.
Before I end this letter I offer you two bits of advice. Firstly, the time is drawing near for your children to be born. It is an effect of the paradox, so please do not worry, this was planned for an exact reason that you will know at the correct time. Secondly, I know that what Yumi may say seems impossible, or perhaps something that you will all feel guilt in doing, but please don't harbor such ill will towards yourselves, or others. The path chosen for you now may be even harder than the ice could ever be, but I can guarantee you this: if you can pull through this hardship then the future kingdom will be stronger as a whole. I bid you all good luck, the wheels are already set in motion.
"She's lost it! Finally that old fart finally lost all her marbles!" Haruka partly shouted as she flung her hands in the air before finding the wall to give it a good punch. The others just watched as she began a small tirade about Setsuna's apparent loss of brain mass among other things. Ami, Michiru, and Minako had a far different subject on their minds.
"I wonder just how long we have before we go into labor. She was very generic with her answer." Michiru said as she for the first time in a long while wanted to actually hit Setsuna herself for the lack of information provided.
"I'm not sure. Our computers are powerful but I'm not sure we could even begin to calculate that. This is one time when I hate to admit it, but it looks like we will have to wait and see." Ami said as she sighed slightly at the importune timing of it all. She thought for a moment quietly to herself as Minako's hyperactive panic took over the room.
"What do your mean your computers can't do it! MAKE THEM! The last thing we need is for all of us to have kids at the same time! What the hell was Setsuna thinking! Haruka's right she's totally lost it!" Minako agreed fully with Haruka who was still in a small tirade in the back of the room, Minako joined her.
"Mari, give me a hand would you, nothing will get done if those two keep at it." Yumi said as she began to restrain Haruka before she could do any more damage along with her ranting. Finally they taped her to a chair and placed a rag in her mouth to keep her from causing more racket. Minako was next, luckily she was easier to quiet down once she realized she was just adding more complexity to the situation.
"Now as long as everyone promises to not freak out into another round of pandemonium I'll be glad to answer questions." Yumi said as she took a seat on the floor. It was obvious what the first question would be as everyone stared at her bug-eyed awaiting some form of answer. "Alright, alright. I assume you want to know when the labors will hit?" After a round of nods and a few rude replies she sighed and relinquished the answer. "I can not say for sure since I am not the time mage, but I can say it all three babies will be born within the next 7 days. From there after they are born we will all need to part into different ways for the plan that Setsuna has set up." Yumi said quietly as she felt a twinge of pain in the depth of her heart.
"Part ways? Why is that Yumi?" Rei asked as she saw her daughter become pensively quiet. The other children knew basic information as well it seemed as they too grew somber. Looking to Usagi she knew a large portion of them had been left out of the loop.
"We have too, in order to bring upon a revolution. We will all build homes identical to our planets with the powers we have here on earth. From there we will call forth people who will follow us. Some will be nomadic enough to take residence on the other planets.. All in all it will unify all of them by us living here on earth. Setsuna had us place every planet into hibernation so when we grow in strength we can make the other planets like earth. That way, there will be little need for civil war since every planet will coexist. In this manner no one will feel endangered by they other plants way of life. It may make things easier." Yumi explained carefully as the others absorbed the information carefully.
"Other Senshi have also been sent. At this moment Seyia and the others are on a search for other Senshi to join out cause. We are sure many will be interested in joining up with us. It'll be a new revolution. We couldn't have told you all before, it wouldn't have gone well otherwise. I'll say this, the Dark Moon will also merger with us, they too will seek a home among us. I know for a fact it will be different this time. Before Saria left, she gave me insurance that it will work, and I do believe what she said to be fact." Usagi said as she also spoke of what would happen in the near future.
"If your sure Usagi, then I will trust it to be fact as well." Rei said in affirmation, joined quickly by Minako and then slowly the others. They all sat and deliberated on the events to come. Some were worried, others overly confidant. The kids seemed more pensive than ever before. Preparations needed to be made, and quickly. Things were changing in the timeline and only Setsuna knew for sure what to expect, and yet again, she wouldn't say a word. All they could do now was mentally prepare for the new changes, the new babies, and a far different future. This wasn't written in the stars, but then again, time was always changing. No matter what they did, it had to remain in the back of everyone's mind that time could change back once again, in the blink of an eye.
TBC!
There you have it chapter 13! Two more chapters in this story arc so tell me how you want this to continue! If i do it in an arc style like stated above then over all we are looking roughly at 5 books, one for each arc. If I make it one big fan fiction it will be roughly 75 chapters added together.. and that's a butt load of chapters if one thinks about it logically. some people may ask why so many but I have my reasons for it. More information will be added in my profile since I'm going to revamp it. Look it up and you'll see what I have planned.