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'': Thoughts (thinking)
"": Talking
Chapter 30
Selene rushed over to Usagi and held her as Usagi cry into her chest, "My sweet Usa, I believe that to be untrue. It was never the current Inner Senshi destiny to be Sailor Soldiers which is why they were easily turned away from their duties and mission. If they truly accepted their destiny we wouldn't be having this discussion."
"So do you truly think that if I let the Sailor Star Seeds vanish, the new Inners will be more accepting?" Usagi asked, hiccuping her words.
"I believe so, but at the same time I have no idea who the new Soldiers would be so I have no idea how their lives are or how much it would affect their lives." Selene answered and Usagi nodded, "However you don't have to make this decision now, you can take all the time you need to make this choice."
Usagi lifted her head and stared at the moon goddess, "Really? I don't have to choose now?"
"Of course not, I was just letting you know what you can do about the Star Seeds. I'm sorry if I made it sound like you have to choose now." Selene apologized
Usagi released a sigh of relief, this day alone had been earth-shattering with the truth about the Inners and now learning that she can either keep the Star Seeds in the box or release it so the true Inners can be awaken. Usagi felt completely overwhelmed this new decision. "I know I should make this decision as soon as possible but I just don't know."
Selene kissed Usagi's hair, "It's okay but I just want you to know when you are making your decision that you aren't keeping the true Inners from living a normal life, but keeping them from their true destiny."
"But Grandmother, what if this life as a Sailor Senshi isn't the life that they want?" Usagi asked
"At the same time how do you know it is what they need? What if they been looking to sky feeling like there's something more for them, something important for them to do?"
Usagi groaned, "I wish there was a way I could know who the true Inner Senshi are, then it would be super helpful."
Selene tapped her chin with her index finger and gave a thoughtful look, "Hmm, what if can find out who the identities of the true Inner Senshi?"
"Can we?"
Selene shrugged, "Probably, I bet after we remove the Inners powers, I could use the Sailor Star Seeds of the Inners and most likely find out who the true Inner Senshi are. But right now" she started as she lifted both herself and Usagi up from floor, causing Usagi to do a double take on the strength of her Grandmother, "Let me show how to remove the powers of the Inner Senshi."
She led Usagi back over to the boxes that sat on the pillars, "Now guess, how do you think you will be able to talk away the powers of the Inners?"
"Um well I would say by removing the Sailor Star Seed but that would be impossible since the their normal Star Seed and the Sailor Star Seed has merged together." Usagi said
"In other circumstances you would be correct but since you are a goddess and along with the power of the Silver Crystal nothing is impossible for you to do."
Usagi felt hesitant since she worried about accidentally breaking their Star Seed and turning them into monsters, Selene must've felt her hesitance, "Don't worry love, everything will be okay plus I will be there with you to ensure that nothing goes wrong."
Usagi smiled, "Thanks Grandmother but I just have to ask how do you know everything will be okay?"
Selene chuckled, "Sweetheart don't you think as someone who helped merged the Star Seeds didn't think to plan how to split the Star Seeds?"
"Uh?"
"Like I said before I was never okay with Queen Serenity's idea because they weren't meant to be your Senshi. An unbinding ritual had to be made in case anything happens. Either if the power of the Senshi proved to be too much or they proved to be unworthy to be Senshi, it was necessary it have that option." Selene explained
"Okay" Usagi nodding, putting her full trust in the moon goddess, "So what's the first step?"
"First step, all of the Inners should be standing on their symbols and from that moment they won't be able to move from that spot." Selene began
Usagi thought for a second, "Can we do this ritual on Earth or does it have to be on the Moon?"
"We can do anywhere, why?"
"If I bring them here, to the Moon Palace, it would be very obvious something's going to happen and they would immediately be suspicious." Usagi stated
Selene couldn't help but agree with Usagi's words; the last thing they want is the Inners to start fighting as Usagi begins the ritual. Each part of the process is important and any disruption could lead to either injury or even the death of the Inners.
"Okay then, let's start. Usagi be sure to remember every step." Selene ordered.
Usagi was able to learn the first steps in removing of the Inners powers however Usagi decided to continue learning the next day and Selene agreed since the wrong move could either injure or even kill the Inners. Besides Usagi had something else she had to do before the day was over.
The Inners weren't the only ones who needed to be punished. Luna and Artemis could easily be taken care of by Usagi putting a limiter on their abilities or even disable their ability to become human. However Mamoru was another issue and since he is Earth's prince, Usagi wasn't even sure if she could even do something since Mamoru was practically tied to the Earth, which is why she need to speak to him. Helios.
She hasn't seen Helios since he returned to Elysion after the defeat of the Dead Moon and Queen Nehellenia but she knew he was the best person to talk to since he is also a guardian of Earth along with Elysion.
Relying on her memory of when Helios first brought her and Mamoru to Elysion, Usagi used her powers to open a portal to Elysion. Stepping through she and Tsuki entered in the garden that was completely silent; as least for a moment it was. Suddenly Usagi found herself surrounded by priestesses holding staffs towards her.
Before the Academy, Usagi probably would've started panicking in a situation like this. However thanks to Mrs. Baron Usagi used to this, but the only difference is, is that she wasn't surrounded by enemies but allies. At least she hoped so.
"Wow you guys definitely beefed up security since last time." Usagi chuckled
That statement confused some of the priestesses but before any of them could move a male voice yelled out, "STOP! Stand down!"
The priestesses turned towards the voice while Usagi turned around and smiled, "It's been a while, Helios."
Helios bowed, "Welcome back to Elysion, Neo-Queen Serenity." The priestesses gasped and immediately lifted up their staffs and bowed to Usagi. "I hope you can forgive the priestesses for not recognizing you but when we felt a massive release of mana and the priestesses acted in response."
Usagi nodded, "I understand Helios besides it's my fault for not letting you know in advance I was coming. Also I'm not Queen yet so you don't have to address as such."
Helios smiled, "Of course Princess Serenity but I must say your power feels different than the last time we met."
Usagi shrugged casually, "I have been training so my powers have…matured." She said with a smile
Helios was hoping that Usagi would provide more insight but she stayed quiet, "Yes we can feel that but I have a feeling that you're here because of something else."
Usagi nodded, "You're right, you see I wanted to ask if you feel like Mamoru has been a good prince and co-guardian of Earth." Helios made a face but stayed quiet, "What? You can tell me."
"Leave us." Helios ordered to the priestesses and before they left they did a final bow to Usagi. Once the two were alone in the garden, "May I first wonder why, Princess Serenity, you are asking this question?"
Usagi mentally cursed herself as realized she should've been subtle in her question since she just flat out just questioned Mamoru abilities as a prince and guardian of the Earth. Especially since she doesn't know the true relationship between Helios and Mamoru, for all she knew the two could've gotten close and Mamoru could've told Helios everything from his own perspective. Usagi wanted to slap herself for not even considering that.
Usagi sighed before speaking, "There has been issues between myself, the Senshi and Mamoru since some things have been brought to light and I feel things need to changed not only for the future of the Earth but also for myself."
Helios furrowed his brow as what Usagi said was vague yet he could kind of understand why she asked the question regarding Mamoru. "Okay" Helios began, "Well to be honest with you since defeat of the Dead Moon and Queen Nehellenia, I thought Prince Endymion and I were going to start discussing about the future of Elysion and our duties as guardians but he said he wanted to focus on his studies. I understood that as I knew he has new responsibilities in this life however that was the last time we ever spoke. Even with the aftermath of Sailor Galaxia, Prince Endymion never came to speak with me."
"Even though he is my prince, I have to say that Prince Endymion have not stepped up to his duties and seemingly ignores the signs of the Earth being in trouble. And if anything it is you Princess Serenity of the Moon Kingdom who saves the Earth repeatedly so it makes one wonder what the Prince of the Earth is doing." Helios stated.
Usagi had to hold in the laugh she wanted to release but she didn't want to offend Helios. But she had to say she was happy to hear of Helios true feelings of Mamoru because it would make everything so such easier. "So say if someone want to remove Mamoru as guardian would you be in agreement with that?" Usagi asked
Helios raised an eyebrow, "Is that why you are here?"
Usagi nodded, "Soon I will be taking the powers of the Inners because I can't trust them anymore. It's the same with Mamoru which is why we are now separated but I needed to know if he was still considered to be a good guardian."
Helios raised his eyebrows in surprise of hearing the conflict between the princess and the Senshi but Usagi's statement raised a question. "While I'm surprised to hear this, I can only assume this was recently and hopefully you won't find me being rude when I ask that as the significant other of the Prince wouldn't you know if he was truly a good guardian?"
"I was in America for the past year so the Outers have been telling me what's been going on within the Senshi and for what I have been hearing he's been late in helping to deal with the monsters or he doesn't show up at all." Usagi said, "So I already I know the answer but I wanted your opinion and also your help."
Helios thought for moment as if contemplating whether or not he would ultimately betray his one and only prince. But at the same time the one who has saved the world repeatedly was the princess not the prince so wouldn't it smart to side with her? The answer was obvious. The Silver Millennium is over, the Earth Kingdom is no more and the only thing that remains of the Earth Kingdom was Elysion. Unfortunately the remaining successor doesn't seem at all interested leaving Helios with no other choice. Well its not if its a bad choice.
"Alright Princess, you already know my opinion on Prince Endymion and I will be more than happy to help you. My only condition is that you continue to protect Elysion and also for the two of us to work together now and in the future." Helios stated
Usagi smiled, "Of course, I would love nothing more." Usagi sticked her hand out.
Helios smiled as well and shook her hand, "I'm glad we are in agreement. Now how I can actually help you?"
Usagi giggled, "How about we go sit somewhere, this might be a long conversation."
After her conversation with Helios, Usagi wanted to head home and cuddle with Tsuki but then Naru texted her to go out for a late dinner. Usagi decided to just sleepover at Naru's after the dinner to which Naru was more than happy with. She quickly went home and and packed an overnight bag and let her parents know she was sleeping over Naru's house with Tsuki.
Once Naru learned Usagi was going to sleep over, she changed plans for the two of them to have takeout and eat in her room. When Usagi and the food arrived, the two found themselves sitting on the floor eating, talking and laughing while Tsuki laid on Naru's bed.
"So I heard there was a monster attack yesterday and it was taken care of really quickly. People saying are saying Sailor Moon is back even though no one saw her." Naru smiled while wiggling her eyebrows.
Usagi giggled, "Well unfortunately she couldn't make it but her friend Twilight come out to help out."
Naru tilted her head in confusion, "Twilight?"
Usagi smiled and nodded but then realized she never told Naru, "Oh right I forgot to tell you that I can't be Eternal Sailor Moon anymore."
Naru gasped, "What do you mean you can't be Sailor Moon anymore?!" She harshly whispered. "You just transformed in front in front me the other day."
"Calm down Naru and let me explain." Usagi answered, "Right now I'm in between my forms so I can't use my powers while as Eternal Sailor Moon but I transform and become Sailor Moon. But because my powers have increased I'm too powerful to use my powers as Eternal Sailor Moon and unfortunately I'm not strong enough to be my next form."
"Oh" Naru said finally understanding.
"But honestly my grandmother told me that I don't need to be Sailor Moon anymore because it was just a way my powers was able to come out."
Naru gasped, "So does that mean Sailor Moon is gone forever?" And Usagi shrugged. Naru wiped her mouth, "I hope not."
Usagi gave her a questioning look, "Why not?"
Naru raised her eyebrow as if saying 'Seriously?', "Usa do you not see how popular Sailor Moon is? She more talked about than Sailor V, who disappeared over three years. Speaking of which do you know her?"
Usagi laughed, "You do realize Sailor V is Sailor Venus?"
Naru eye's widened but then relaxed, "Well honestly I should've realized that. But anyways back to what we were saying about your popularity."
Usagi giggled, "I know Sailor Moon is popular but I just don't think she needs to make appearances anymore."
"Usagi, Sailor Moon is an idol and the savior in the eyes of all Japan. When she stopped showing up people started panicking wondering if the Outers and Inners could take care if it themselves. Although many times it was the Outers taking care of it themselves so it fueled that panic." Naru stated
Usagi sighed as she leaned back on Naru's bed, "Well at the moment I honestly can't be Sailor Moon so there's nothing I can do that. However with the Inners and Mamoru, they will soon be facing their punishment."
"What do you mean?" Naru wondered
"I'm taking the Inners powers away." Usagi stated nonchalantly
Naru eyes widened and gasped, "What the hell happened since we last spoke?!" She harshly whispered and Usagi told her all the happened between her and the Inners and Naru was furious. She stood up and walked angrily around her room, "That's it we're going to each and every one of their houses right now and kick their asses."
"Okay it's time for you to sit down because you are getting way too hype." Usagi giggled
"Usagi how could you laugh when they 'apologized' and yet still didn't defend you?" Naru chided
"Why do you think I'm taking away their powers?"
"I can't believe it. I can't believe them. I can't- I just can't." She said sound exasperated
"I know its infuriating but they are just proving they can't be trusted so I'm done with them." Usagi shrugged
Naru sat down and just looked at Usagi, "So that's it. Rei, Minako, Ami and Makoto will no longer be Senshi's? I mean they kinda deserve it but isn't that a bit drastic?"
Usagi laughed, "You didn't seem to have a problem with this a second ago."
"Yeah that's because I was pissed off and angry but now that I've calmed down and started thinking about it, it's kinda drastic." Naru said
"I thought so too; for a while I've been debating it. Especially after all they've been put through being Senshi but now we're moving towards the future and after learning what they think about me, can I just forgive them for their behavior and hope that one day, they will be sincere?" Usagi asked Naru.
Naru opened her mouth to speak but then closed it as she though about it. Friends are suppose to be the ones you know you can always count on and with all Usagi and the Senshi and Mamoru have been through shouldn't the bond between be unbreakable? But yet something happened causing the divide between them and Usagi. Soon Usagi will be Queen and needs to be with people she can trust; can those people be the Senshi and Mamoru?
Naru sighed and patted Usagi shoulder, "Maybe one day you can but not anything time soon. You have to do what best for, not only yourself but soon the world and if that means cutting down toxic friends then I'm all for it. I'll always support you no matter what."
Usagi smiled and hugged Naru, "I missed you so much Naru."
"I missed you more." Naru said sadly and Usagi knew where feeling was coming. Ever since she became Sailor Moon and befriended the Inners, her friendship with Naru was pushed to the sidelines. The fact that she would still stand her side and support her after that makes Usagi realize that this is what true friendship is about.
"So when are you gonna do it?" Naru asked
"Well I haven't chosen a date yet but it will be very soon, its' just right now I'm learning how to do it and there are some other things I need to straighten out before I can just before I can do that." Usagi said
Naru nodded, "I'm sure you have too since there might be drastic outcomes with taking the Inners powers." She said as she went back to eating her food.
Usagi smiled to herself, 'There probably would be consequences if the powers actually belong to the Inners.' At that thought, Usagi wondered what Naru's reaction would be if she told her that. Well Usagi will probably see it soon but only after she tells the Outers first as they have the right to know something like this. Usagi is sure that Setsuna will be more shocked than anyone as she probably had no knowledge about it. But of course she also didn't know about Selene either.
"So what about Mamoru? Naru asked, "He's not escaping the punishments is he?"
Usagi smiled, "Don't worry, he's kinda a special case but he's getting what's coming to him."
Naru smiled, "I am loving this badass side to you."
Usagi giggled and the two stayed up talking for another hour before Naru set up two futons on the floor so they can go to sleep.
AN: Thanks guys for this reading this chapter and don't worry the moment you've all been waiting will soon happen. Just give it some time. Stay safe guys, till next time ja ne!