I do not own Sailor Moon, or it's Characters.
Created own Characters: Sailor Star Striker/Striker, the Children of the Senshi, Seiya's family, and Kakyuu's family.
Also Created: Toshi, Yuudai and Taro.
Created Own Evil: Starlight, and Darkness's Army.
USAGI
I was so happy, after being intimate with Seiya, but then she goes and says she's missed me, which I didn't understand. I had no idea that I'd being distant, or even noticed that Seiya and I hadn't spent much time together lately. I felt so guilty, but I felt alot better, after telling her about my worries, and nightmares. I always feel better after talking with her, and I should really start doing what she says, and talk to her whenever something is bothering me.
I told her about what Akihiko told me, which is one thing I constantly think about, and I could tell by the look on her face, she was shocked. I actually wonder what else Akihiko knows.
We then went and helped get things ready, but I was worried when I noticed Usa looking scared almost.
"What's wrong?", I asked her, pulling her aside from the others.
"I'm nervous", she replied, looking down. "I love Helios so much, but what if he doesn't love me the same?", she asked, worried. "What if he realises tomorrow, that he doesn't want to spend the rest of his life with me, and..",
"Calm down Usa", I insisted, placing my hands on her shoulders.
I have never seen her so nervous before, but I knew something, that I'd being keeping secret, which might just make her relax.
"There is something I need to tell you Usa", I started, feeling a little nervous myself. "You and Helios had met before, when Mamoru was meant to be your Father", I confessed nervously.
"We did?", Usa asked, looking at me confused.
"You did", I replied, taking a deep breath. "You met when you visited me in the past, and I guess you could say you loved each other then, though you were too young to know what love was, but you were very close. Then when Helios met you, as you are now, I told him what had happened, and that you weren't the same, but he insisted on getting to know you, and he actually confessed to liking the changes in you. He didn't care if you didn't love him anymore, as he was just happy to know you exsisted, and hoped to at least be friends", I informed her gently.
I remember feeling bad, telling Helios that Usa wasn't mine and Mamoru's Daughter, as he was so happy to know she had been born. She was five at the time, and he saw her new look, but said she still held the same shine she did in the past. I'm glad they fell in love, as I know Helios will always look after Usa, and even Seiya approves of their marriage.
"So he loved me all that time, and even when I changed he loved me, but was prepared to let me love another if I chose too?", Usa questioned, obviously thinking about what I said.
"Yes", I replied cautiously.
"Just like Mum did with you", she mentioned, sounding pleased with the fact.
"Yes", I replied smiling.
"I always dreamt of been in love, like you and Mum", Usa started, as she looked right at me. "And now I know I am going to fulfill that dream. I have to make sure everything is organised for my wedding. The day has to be absolutely perfect, and nothing is going to ruin it", she exclaimed determined. "I love you Mum, and I don't care that you changed who I was. I'm happy, and I love my life, and I believe you did the right thing", she cried, hugging me tightly. "Now I have to go see Sora. She is my Matron of Honor, and we need to make sure everything is organised", she added, rushing off and leaving me alone.
I laughed lightly, seeing her so happy, and headed off too, also wanting the day to be perfect.
Everything was organised, and ready for Usa's wedding, though there was the problem of getting Seiya to Usa's room, so she could help our Daughter get ready. I know she isn't into the whole beauty thing, but she almost looked scared as Yaten and I dragged her there, but thankfully she gave in, and so Yaten and I left her, and headed off to get ready ourselves.
"Do you think Seiya is alright?", I asked, as Yaten did my hair.
I felt quite relaxed after our massage, and was ready to face the day ahead of me.
"No", she replied laughing. "She'd be complaining, getting angry, and be about ready to Star Serious Laser someone right about now", she continued, finding it amusing. "Makes me wish I was there", she added, winking at me.
I laughed also, as I know what my Daughters can be like. I've helped them numerous times, with getting ready for dates, Balls, and even I can find them a little overwhelming at times. Kei actually surprises me, as she is very much a tomboy like Seiya, but she does love to have her nails done.
Once Yaten had finished my make up, and I was ready, I made my way to meet up with Seiya, but decided to stop past Akihiko's room first.
"You look beautiful Mum", Akihiko beamed, as I found him, with Seiji and Ryo.
"And you all look very Handsome", I smiled, helping Seiji with his tie. "Where is the Groom?", I asked, noticing he wasn't there.
"Here I am", Helios replied, stepping out of the Bathroom.
"You look nervous", I smiled, as he approached us slowly.
"Just a little", he responded, putting his jacket on. "I'm still getting used to the idea that this is happening, as I honestly thought she'd find another", he mentioned, somewhat embarassed.
"Well I doubt she would, especially after I told her the truth yesterday", I mentioned, shocking him.
"She knows?", he asked stunned.
"I had to tell her", I stated, hoping he wouldn't be mad. "She was panicking, thinking you don't love her like she loves you, so I told her, and she is more than excited to be marrying you today", I smiled, helping him with his tie also.
"Now I'm really nervous", he sighed, looking at his feet.
"Don't stress too much", Akihiko suggested kindly. "I'll be right beside you, like you were for me, and always will be", he stated, shaking Helios's hand.
Akihiko and Helios are actually the best of friends, and Helios was Akihiko's Bestman when he married Sora.
"Thanks Akihiko", Helios smiled relieved. "I guess we should get going now", he added, looking alot more relaxed.
I nodded, and after taking Akihiko's arm, we headed off to Usa's wedding.
"We haven't really had the chance to talk since..",
"You don't have to say anything Mum", Akihiko assured me, cutting me off.
"But I do", I responded, as we continued on our way to the wedding. "I thank you for coming to help me, but you shouldn't have put yourself in harms way like that", I spoke firmly.
"I'm not going to apologise for wanting to protect you Mum", he responded seriously, stopping us from walking.
"But you could have died", I worried loudly. "I know you wanted to protect me, but if you had died, I don't think I could have gone on", I expressed, caressing his cheek. "Losing any of you Kids, your Mother, my friends, would destroy me. That's why I hate having anyone risk their life for me. I don't want a life where none of you are in it", I finished, controlling my tears.
"And I don't want to live in a life, where I only have one Mother", he responded rather angrily. "You know I watched you, but do you have any idea how much it hurt, knowing that you were suffering, because of how much you loved me?. There were so many times, I wanted to show myself, and tell you to let me go, so you didn't suffer anymore, or to tell you that Mum was still alive, but I knew I couldn't. All I have ever being able to do is stand back and watch, but this time...this time I refused to be just a spectator, to be useless", he added, looking so deeply hurt.
"You're not useless Akihiko", I spoke sadly, wondering why he hurt so much.
"But I am", he groaned, running his fingers through his hair. "Do you know how hard it has been, to grow up the Son of Sailor Moon?. To sit back and watch as your three Sisters recieve the power to protect those they love, while your taught to use a sword?", he asked, breaking my heart. "I love you Mum, and I am proud to be your Son, and that is why I will do whatever I can to protect you, and if that means I have to act as a human shield, then so be it, but I won't stand back and watch you suffer anymore", he added, looking so determined.
It may sound stupid, but I never once considered how my two Sons felt, not having powers like their Sisters. I never wanted any of my Children to inherit powers, as I never wanted them to fight like I did, but hearing Akihiko now, I realised he was hurting, and I didn't even know.
"I never wanted any of you to fight Akihiko", I spoke gently, embracing him tightly. "And I'm sorry that you've suffered for being my Son, but you should know I never had children, so they could inherit our powers. I had Children because I wanted a family, so never say you are useless, as just being you, is all you ever need to be", I expressed with love.
He reminded me so much of Seiya in that moment, worrying about being good enough.
"I know, and being your Son is great, I just need you to understand, that while you fight to keep everyone safe, I want to do the same for you", he smiled, pulling away from me.
"Well I may not like it, but you're too much like your Mother, so I know it's pointless to argue, but just promise me, that if anything ever happens, you won't do anything rash", I insisted, knowing no matter what I said, he'd do what he wanted anyway.
"I promise", he smiled, before kissing my forehead. "Now let's get my Sister married", he added, holding out his arm.
I smiled, and took hold of his arm, and once again, we made our way to Usa's big day.
The ceremony was beautiful, as was Usa. I can't believe she had a dress made, that was mine and Seiya's combined. She was practically glowing, as was Seiya, even if she did complain about what she went through, she looked amazing because of it.
I cried as they became Husband and Wife, then joined everyone inside for the reception. I felt a little guitly, for not dancing with Usa, in the traditional Father Daughter dance, but I did smile seeing her dance with my Father, then Seiya's. Of course Seiya wasn't the only one, Usa had asked to do something they don't really like to, for her special day, and when she grabbed my hand, and lead me out of the room, I knew it was now my turn to keep my promise.
She lead me out, to a secluded area of the garden, where we could hear the music from inside, and she looked at me smiling brightly.
"Come on", she urged me, to which I sighed in response too.
I then took my Star Brooch out, and after taking a deep breath, I transformed into male form, where I was wearing a black suit, much like Akihiko and Seiji were wearing, and looked at my Daughter, feeling really awkward.
"Aunt Rei was right", Usa smiled gently. "You look good as a Man", she added, making me blush.
I smiled feeling fooilish, and bowed to her, before taking her hand, and together we started dancing.
I almost had a heart attack, when she asked me to do this, but I couldn't deny her, especially not on her big day. Thankfully I managed to keep it quiet, so that no one else knew about it, and as I looked at Usa's face, the smile she was wearing made it all worth it.
I guess in a way, if I had never recieved this form, I may never have had Usa, and that is a thought I don't like. She may not be the annoying little brat, that I first met, though she is quite similar, but she has a more caring side now, and I am so glad she still got to be a part of my life.
"Thanks Dad", Usa smiled, as our dance finished.
"You know, after all this time, it's till weird to think I'm actually your Father", I mentioned shaking my head. "But I'm happy to be", I added, kissing her cheek, before losing my transformation.
"And I'm happy you are", she giggled, as Seiya and Akihiko joined us.
I was shocked that Seiya said Akihiko had seen us dancing, but loved having that moment of peace with Seiya. We then headed inside, after Seiji yelled out for us, and I spent the rest of the night dancing with Seiya, and of course I danced with Akihiko, Striker, and Keiji, though he spent most of the night at Hoshi's side. They do make a cute couple.
Finally the guests left, as had Usa and Helios, and I was exhausted, but as I looked at the Scouts, I knew I realised there was something I had to say to them.
"It was a beautiful wedding Usagi", Michiru mentioned, as I stood before them.
"I'm sorry", I apologised, causing them all to look at me confused.
"Sorry for what?", Makoto asked, as she stood with Motoki.
"Sorry for the way I acted", I apologised, feeling awkward. "I'm sorry for your Children having to fight, and for being the reason Starlight exsisted in the first place", I added, as Seiya placed her arms around me from behind.
We haven't spoken about what happened, and though we've being polite to each other, it's like we've all being walking on egg shells around each other, and I've hated that. I've actually woken a few times, almost remembering the pain of their attacks, and the pain of their somewhat betrayal, is still very present, but I can't keep making them feel as though it is all their fault, when I hold some of that blame. Plus if I can forgive Seiya, who's betrayal hurt worse, then I should be able to forgive them.
"You don't have to apologise for that", Michiru smiled kindly. "We should be the ones apologising for our behavior", she added, looking a little guilty.
"Yeah Usagi", Rei spoke next."We should have known she wasn't you", she added, looking guilty also.
"She did look like me", I shrugged, not really looking at any of them.
"But she didn't act like you", Ami responded sadly. "We should have known as soon as you said Striker was dead, that she wasn't you", she spoke sniffling.
"And my death would have made you realise how?", Striker asked confused.
"Usagi would be an emotional wreck if you died, where as Starlight seemed not to care", Taiki replied, knowing me so well.
"Well my life would be a great loss", Striker mentioned smugly.
I shook my head, and giggled lightly, while the others laughed. Trust Striker to try and use himself as a tension breaker.
"Can you tell us what actually happened, when Starlight first appeared?", Setsuna asked intrigued.
I looked at her a moment, unsure if I could relive that memory, but a gentle squeeze from Seiya, and I knew I could do it.
"I was at the Ball, dancing with Keiji, then we went outside and talked", I started nervously. "He then went back inside, and I stayed out there, just looking at the stars, then I heard her voice", I continued, shuddering at the memory. "She was her usual annoying self, telling me about Seiji being the one who helped her free herself, and that she'd had alot of time to remember what Darkness had known before her", I added, not really wanting to say what happened next. "Then I heard Striker calling me, and she stabbed me. She then attacked Striker, when he showed up, and then, then she touched my face, after making herself look like me. I didn't feel anything, until I hit the ground after being thrown over the balcony", I added rushed. "The last thing I remember, was Keiji calling my name, then nothing, till I woke up in the Healer's room", I finished, with tears running down my cheek.
"Oh Usagi", Michiru sighed sadly, looking shocked at what I said.
"What happened next?", Rei asked, with tears in her eyes.
"I woke up in the Healer's room, with Keiji beside me, and remembered what happened", I replied, remembering screaming out for Seiya.
"Keiji said they had to sedate you", Ami mentioned, crying softly.
"I was trying to leave", I shrugged in reply. "Starlight said she knew what made me strong, which I knew meant you were all in danger", I added weakly.
"Your screaming is what woke me up", Striker mentioned, looking at me kindly. "I thought you were in danger again", he added, with a small smile.
"Sorry", I apologised, knowing I didn't have to.
"So when did our dark selves show up?", Yaten asked, hiding her tears.
"After I woke the next time", I replied, resting back against Seiya. "Striker helped me get to Kakyuu, and that's when they arrived. We knew straight away they weren't you, as having Striker beside me gave that away, but it scared me to think what had happened to you", I mentioned, looking up at Seiya.
"And that's when Queen Kakyuu called the Starlights", Taiki nodded, understanding what happened.
"Yes", I smiled shyly. "I wasn't sure what to expect, so I told Kakyuu to do what she had to. She didn't want to, as she knew I wouldn't be able to leave, but I told her she had to think of her people first. I also knew that meant Kei, Emi, Cheiko and Saki would be summoned, but there was no other choice. As much as I would have liked it to be just Striker and I, I wasn't going to risk the lives of so many", I stated firmly.
"I wish you had come for us", Hotaru sniffled, hugging Shingo.
"Keiji and I tried, but like we said, the portal had been locked, and Usagi needed us more", Striker responded, as kindly as he could.
I know he is just as upset over what happened, as I am, maybe even more, and isn't going to let anyone question our motives.
"Again we owe you our thanks Striker", Setsuna mentioned warmly. "You always seem to be there for Usagi, when she needs you, and I am grateful she has your loyalty", she smiled, bowing her head slightly.
"It's what I do", Striker smiled bragging.
Again everyone laughed, but I noticed Minako looking at me, with a painful expression, and wondered what was wrong with her.
"Minako", I said, earning her attention. "What's wrong?", I asked, knowing something was bothering her.
"When did you..you know...find out about your um..scars?', Minako asked, sounding uncomfortable with the topic.
"Like I said, I didn't feel it when they happened, though Starlight did", I replied, feeling my cheek. "It wasn't till Keiji took me to my room, that I saw them", I added, looking down. "I..I tried to use the Silver Crystal to heal them, but I'm stuck with them", I informed them shyly.
"I think they make you look tough", Striker mentioned, winking at me.
"And I still think she's beautiful", Seiya smiled, kissing my cheek.
I looked around at them all, and noticed that none of them looked at me with fear, or disgust, which made me happy.
"I really am sorry Usagi", Minako apologised, suddenly embracing me.
"It's alright Minako", I smiled, hugging her back. "I forgive you. All of you", I added, as she pulled away.
Seiya let me go, and one by one they all came and hugged me.
"There is one thing I would like to know", Taiki announced, looking at me curiously.
"What's that?", Seiya asked, as she held me again.
"Why couldn't Starlight take our Children's powers?", Taiki asked confused. "They have our powers, so why is it, that they were able to retain theirs, while we couldn't?", she asked, looking bothered by it.
"Because their powers are different", I replied, making them all look at me confused. "Akane and Maki have different powers from their Mother's. Akane has only just recieved hers, and are not as advanced as Rei's, and Maki can't control time like Setsuna", I started explaining, hoping I made sense. "And as for Usa, Kei, Emi, Saki, Cheiko, Sora and Manami, their powers are different, because of both their parents", I continued gently. "My three Daughters, are born from the Moon and Stars, while Saki is from the Stars and Venus, Chieko the Stars and Mercury, and Sora Manami are form Uranus and Neptune, but also from the Stars. Does that make sense?", I asked, hoping I explained it well enough.
"Yes", Taiki replied nodding. "I'm glad they were able to help you Usagi, and I will admit...I was proud of them", she added honestly.
The others all nodded in agreement, which made me smile, and I felt alot more relaxed around them.
"Well it's been a long day, so I suggest we all get some sleep", Motoki suggested, holding back a yawn.
We all nodded again, and started heading off to bed.
It felt good that I had spoken to them. I've being talking to Taiki and Yaten, but only because I can look at them, without seeing them attack me. I know eventually I'll be able to look at the others, and not see them attacking me, but at least I can talk to them now.
"Koneko".
I stopped in the Hallway, after hearing Haruka's voice, and turned to face her.
"Ruka", I smiled, as Haruka stood before me.
She looked at me sadly, and I knew what she wanted to say, without even having to say it, so I hugged her, knowing apologising isn't really her thing. I know she is sorry, for attacking me that second time, and though it still hurts, knowing she did it, I also know she is hurting for it also.
"Sorry", she whispered, holding me tightly.
"I love you Ruka", I whispered in response, making her squeeze me tighter. "Always will", I added honestly.
She then let me go, and left, while I turned to Seiya.
"Feel better?", she asked, caressing my face.
I nodded, and kissed her gently, before we too left. I do feel better now, and look forward to tomorrow.