This is it, you guys! This has been a long time coming, but here it is!

The last chapter for S Arc!

You've been waiting a while, but here it is!

Enjoy the read!

When Harusuke next regained consciousness, he found himself lying in bed, waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the warm rays of the sun. As his eyes fluttered open, the first things he saw were the relieved faces of Usagi, Chibiusa, and all of his friends at his bedside.

"Uncle Sunny, you're awake!" said Chibiusa happily.

Harusuke sat up. "Chibiusa. Everyone," he murmured. "I'm glad you're all okay."

"Not as glad as we are to see you're okay," said Ami. "How do you feel?"

"I'm fine. More or less," said Harusuke. He suddenly remembered. "Wait, what happened? Is the battle over? And what happened to Sailor Saturn and Pharoh 90?"

Uncomfortable looks spread all around, but then Usagi spoke up.

"The battle is over," she spoke quietly. "Pharoh 90's gone, and so is Sailor Saturn. She sacrificed herself to save us."

Harusuke's face fell as he looked at his hands as they clenched, grabbing a fistful of the covers. "I see," he said quietly. "I'm so sorry, everyone. Especially you, Chibiusa. I know how much you wanted to save Hotaru, but..."

"Harusuke, please don't apologize," said Chibiusa. "We all did everything we could to save her. Besides, if it weren't for her, we wouldn't be here right now."

"And don't forget what Chibiusa told us," said Usagi. "Even though she's gone, she's still alive in our hearts, and she'll always be with us."

Harusuke then smiled. "You're right. I should try to cheer up. There's no reason for me to feel so down," he said. "Thanks for not holding it against me."

But Usagi and Chibiusa couldn't help sense the pain behind Harusuke's demeanor despite his smile. Harusuke then got out of bed.

"Well, I'm going to go ahead and get dressed," he said, trying to sound upbeat. "No sense laying around in bed all day."

"But, are you sure you should be up and about, Harusuke?" asked Rei worriedly.

"Yeah. Maybe you should try to take the time to rest some more," added Minako.

"I'll be fine," reassured Harusuke. "I... need to take some time alone for a while, okay? I'll be back in a little while."

And with that, the boy walked out of the room, leaving his friends and family feeling worried.

A little while later, Harusuke got dressed and left the house to take a walk. As he did, Usagi and Chibiusa both watched him go while keeping out of sight from behind the gate, the two ordangos looking concerned. Then, Luna and Artemis came up.

"What's the matter, you two?" asked Luna. "You both look worried."

"It's Harusuke," said Usagi. "He's trying so hard to act like he's strong, but he must be feeling terrible about Hotaru."

"Harusuke's doing it is because he knows that it would be hard on us to see him grieving," said Artemis. "That's most likely why he wants to be alone."

"That reminds me. Do either of you know where Haruka and the others went?" asked Usagi. "I haven't seen them since the battle ended."

"I'm afraid we haven't seen any sign of them anywhere," replied Luna. "Minako and the others are looking as we speak, but they haven't found anything yet."

Chibiusa then gently tugged on Usagi's sleeve to get her attention. "Usagi? Do you think we should watch over Uncle Sunny?" she asked. "I'm kinda worried about him, and I want to make sure he's okay."

Usagi crouched down so she was at eye level with her future daughter and kindly patted her head. "Don't worry, Chibiusa. I'm as worried for Harusuke as you are, but I think it's for the best that we leave him alone for a bit. The Death Busters are finished, so it's not like he'll be attacked. However, I'll ask Ami if she can keep track of him just to be safe."

Chibiusa agreed, but she still couldn't help but feel worried and sorry for her uncle.

Meanwhile, in a cafe in Downtown Juuban, Haruka, Michiru, and Setsuna were enjoying tea and coffee. While they did, Michiru was feeding Hotaru with a bottle of formula.

Haruka couldn't help but chuckle as she watched them. "You're quite a natural at this," she told her.

"I agree," concurred Setsuna. "You look like the very picture of a mother."

"It's going be nice to live a peaceful life as a family of four," said Michiru. "So, naturally, I should act as such." She then took the bottle out of Hotaru's mouth and rocked her gently. "She's going to grow up to be a happier young lady."

Just then, they heard a voice.

"Well, now, you girls look like a happy family."

The three girls looked up and were surprised to see Specter standing beside their table.

Haruka was quick to get defensive. "What are you doing here?" she asked suspiciously.

"Such a scary face, Haruka," Specter spoke, pretending to be frightened. "I would say that making a face like what will give you wrinkles, but something tells me that I better not antagonize you." They looked across to Baby Hotaru, who stared at them with curiosity. "Well, now, it would appear that Hotaru's been reincarnated, no doubt thanks to Sailor Moon. She certainly looks quite adorable."

"So, why are you here, Specter?" asked Michiru. "I doubt that you came here just to admire Hotaru."

Specter then took a seat. "Quick to cut to the chase, eh? And here I was hoping we could have some tea," they said. "Well, to come right to the point, I wanted to ask you where you plan to go from here. The Death Busters have been defeated, and Sailor Saturn didn't destroy the world, so I can't help but be a little curious."

"Let's just say we've taken on a new mission," said Setsuna. "One that requires the care of this little girl."

"I see," said Specter as they tipped their hat. "And something tells me that this mission is out of town, am I right?"

Haruka, Michiru, and Setsuna stayed silent.

"Well, if that's what you plan to do, then I have no right to stop you," said Specter. "All I can do is wish you luck, and make sure to take good care of Hotaru, now that she has an opportunity to grow in a loving family. She needs people to care for now that her father is no longer with us. However, before you girls leave, I'd like for you to do me a small favor. It's something that only the three of you can do."

Haruka, Michiru, and Setsuna were puzzled as Specter began telling them about his favor. When he finished, Haruka, Michiru, and Setsuna agreed.

"If that's all you want us to do, then we'll do it," said Haruka. "Besides, we had some unfinished business anyway."

"Glad to hear it," said Specter as they got up. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll have to go make some preparations. Make sure you don't take this too seriously."

And with a tip of his hat, Specter walked away.

Harusuke was walking around Downtown Juuban, wandering around with no particular place to go. As he did, he could see all the people going about with their daily lives.

"It's kind of surprising seeing this. A major battle happened not too long ago, and it's like the whole thing never happened," thought Harusuke. "I am grateful that we won and saved the world, but... I can't help but think about how steep the price was. In the end, I couldn't do anything. Just like before, I lost someone because I'm weak."

He squeezed his hands into fists in frustration as he thought back to his life as Prince Taiyou when his mother passed away and Sailor Saturn's smile before passing out, which made him feel all the sadder. He eventually made his way to Juuban Park, hoping to go to his hidden area to have some time alone. But he passed by a bench; he heard a voice.

"Yo, Harusuke. It's nice to see that you made it out in one piece.

Harusuke stopped and looked towards the bench to find Specter now sitting on it.

"Hey, Specter," Harusuke said quietly. "I guess I should count myself lucky, I suppose."

"What seems to be the problem, Harusuke?" asked Specter. "Even though peace has returned to this town, you're looking like it's the end of the world."

"Well, you'd feel the same as I do if you knew what happened," said Harusuke. "We may have stopped the Death Busters and saved the town, but... in the end, we couldn't save Hotaru. She died as a result of Mistress 9 destroying her body and sacrificing herself to saving us. Even though I promised myself I would do whatever I could to make sure everyone would survive, I broke that promise, so you can't really blame me."

"But you didn't fail," said Specter. "Everyone did make it out of that battle alive. Including Hotaru."

Harusuke felt his heart get caught into his chest as he immediately turned towards Specter. "Wh-What did you say?" he stammered.

"I said everyone did make it out of the battle alive, including Hotaru," repeated Specter. "Did you not know that?"

Harusuke stared at Specter with wide eyes, not believing his ears. "N-No. You're lying," he denied in refusal. "You're... just trying to give false hope."

"Harusuke, I've never lied to you before, so why would I start now?" said Specter. "Hotaru Tomoe still lives."

"But... how can that be?!" Harusuke asked. "I heard from the others that Sailor Saturn gave up her life to save us."

"Yes, that girl has suffered through all of her years because of being possessed by Mistress 9 and Sailor Saturn," said Specter. "But not long after her sacrifice, Sailor Moon became Neo Queen Serenity and used her power to revitalize the city, and in addition, Hotaru was reincarnated as a baby on this world, allowing her to start a new life."

"Then, where is she?!" demanded Harusuke. "Where is Hotaru?! Is she all right?!"

"If you wish to know, then I'd recommend you head over to Sankakuzu at the ruins of Mugen Academy," said Specter. "There, you'll find what you're looking for, and maybe a little something more."

The mysterious being then got up and walked away.

"Wait a minute, Specter!" Harusuke called out. "What do you mean by that?!"

But Specter had already disappeared.

The sadness Harusuke now was replaced with confusion, surprise, and a slight twinge of hope. Could it be true? Could Hotaru really be alive? After taking a few seconds to think about this, Harusuke activated his bracelet, giving Usagi a call.

A little later, after Harusuke told the girls what Specter said, the gang formed a search party and began their search around the ruins of Sankakuzu. Rubble lay everywhere, and there was even a deep crater that filled up with seawater. The group split into different parties, Usagi, Rei, and Makoto on one, Luna and Artemis on another, Ami, Minako, Chibiusa making the third, and Harusuke by himself. The teens searched high and low, and Ami even used her computer to find any signs of life or clues, but no one could find anything. Eventually, Ami, Minako, and Chibiusa waited for the others to return at a meetup spot while Ami took one last look.

"It's no use. I'm not getting any active readings on my computer," said the bluenette while shutting her laptop. "There isn't even a trace of anything out of the ordinary."

"I was hoping we might find some kind of clue around here, but I guess not," sighed Minako.

Then, Usagi, Rei, and Makoto returned.

"Did you find anything Usagi?" asked Mamoru hopefully.

The ordango blonde shook her head. "No. All that's left around here is rubble. It's practically a demolition site now."

"If it makes you feel any better, we didn't find anything much either," said Minako. "Even Ami's computer couldn't pick up anything. We searched all over this place, and there's no sign of Hotaru anywhere."

Chibiusa looked crestfallen. "Hey, guys? Do you think that Specter lied to us? I mean, we all saw Hotaru... I mean, Sailor Saturn sacrifice herself, so is it even possible she's still alive?"

"You never know Chibiusa," said Usagi. "I know things may seem bleak, and you shouldn't get your hopes up, but try to be positive."

Chibiusa could only nod.

Then, Harusuke returned from his search too. He still looked miserable.

"No luck from you either, Harusuke?" asked Ami.

Harusuke could only shake his head in response.

"Listen, Harusuke. You've got to try and cheer up," encouraged Rei. "What happened to Hotaru wasn't your fault. You did everything you could to try and save her."

"I know," said Harusuke. "But still..."

Meanwhile, Luna and Artemis were just outside the perimeter, still searching. However, they haven't been able to find anything either. They were just about to head back to the others when something caught Artemis's eye, and when he did, he couldn't help but gasp.

"Luna! Come quick!" he yelled.

The black cat quickly rushed over. "What is it, Artemis?" she asked.

The white cat pointed with his paw, and when Luna looked, she was surprised too. The two cats saw a familiar yellow sports car sat parked outside of the site, making them realize that Usagi and the teens weren't alone.

Back with the others, Usagi and the others were waiting for Luna and Artemis to come back. Then, a sweet and melancholy melody filled the air, catching everyone's attention.

"That sound!" gasped Mamoru. "That's a violin!"

"And based on how it's being played, there's only one person who can play like that!" said Usagi.

Then, Harusuke looked up, and sure enough, standing on top of some of the wreckage was Michiru, who was, of course, playing her violin, and Haruka, sitting next to her throwing up a rock and catching it with her hand. He then started walking towards them.

"Haruka! Michiru!" he called out. "What are you two doing here?"

At that moment, Haruka gripped the rock in her hand and gave and glared in anger at Harusuke. "You stay where you are, Solaris," she spoke coldly.

Then, she threw the rock straight at Harusuke, making it hit the ground just in front of him, much to the surprise of him and the others. When Harusuke looked back up, Haruka and Michiru had mysteriously disappeared. Then, Michiru stepped out in the shadows from a piece of rubble closer to the group on the right, while Haruka stepped out from another from the left, both of which wore expressions as cold as ice yet filled with anger.

"Solaris, we have some unfinished business with you," said Michiru.

"While it's true that you and the other guardians helped save this world," spoke Haruka. "But we can't let you go unpunished for what you've done."

"Your sympathy for the Guardian of Destruction and because you didn't stop Sailor Chibi Moon set off a chain of events that eventually led to the awakening of Sailor Saturn," said Michiru firmly. "Your naivete nearly cost us this world!"

"Therefore, Harusuke Tsukino!" the two of them spoke together. "You are unfit as a Guardian and aren't qualified to be king!"

Harusuke was speechless, unable to speak and not believing his ears.

Usagi and the others were angry.

"How could you say that him?!" demanded Ami. "That's too cruel!"

"After everything we've been through!" Minako spoke crossly. "We thought that you two would have understood by now!"

"Take it back, right now!" snapped Rei.

"Haruka! Michiru! It's not Harusuke's fault!" Chibiusa pleaded. "I was the one that went off by myself to save Hotaru! So if anything, I'm the one to blame!"

"Guys, don't even bother," scoffed Makoto. "Nothing we say is going to get through to them! Besides, they're just acting like how they always were, a couple of hardheads that are too stubborn to accept us!"

"Oh? And is that your way of challenging us?" taunted Michiru.

"If that's what you want!" barked Makoto. "We'll gladly take you on!"

Usagi also stepped forward, ready to fight, much to the surprise of Mamoru and Chibiusa.

"Usa?! You, too!" exclaimed Mamoru.

"Don't get me wrong, I don't want to fight them," Usagi spoke quietly. "But, there's no way I'm going to stand by and let them be mean to my brother after everything he did to save this world!"

"Girls, wait a minute!" cried Harusuke trying to intervene. "Please, don't fight!"

But the ordango blonde's words fell on deaf ears as both Haruka and Michiru took out their transformation wands, followed by the Inner Guardians.

"URANUS PLANET POWER MAKE UP!

"NEPTUNE PLANET POWER MAKE UP!"

"MOON COSMIC POWER MAKE UP!"

"MERCURY PLANET POWER MAKE UP!"

"MARS PLANET POWER MAKE UP!"

"JUPITER PLANET POWER MAKE UP!"

"VENUS PLANET POWER MAKE UP!"

Transformation Sequence: Haruka

The symbol of Uranus glowing yellow spins onto Haruka's Lip Rod. Haruka's hand takes hold of it, her fingernails azure blue and the orb releasing a brilliant flash of light. Haruka is enveloped in a glow, and using her Lip Rod in her hand, spins around, tracing a circle outline of wind. She closes her arms around herself as the wind erupts, surrounding her body. Her sailor leotard, gloves, tiara, and boots immediately appear, the color scheme being white, dark blue, and yellow. The transformation completed; Haruka flips her hair back as her lip gloss appears, spins around, and finishes with her signature pose.

Transformation Sequence: Michiru

The symbol of Neptune glowing blue spins onto Michiru's Lip Rod. Michiru's hand takes hold of it, her fingernails teal and the orb releasing a brilliant flash of light. Michiru is enveloped in a glow, and using her Lip Rod in her hand, spins around, tracing a circle outline of water below her spreading her arms wide. A geyser of seawater erupts from the circle, submerging her and, her sailor leotard, gloves, tiara, and boots appear, the coloring being white, sea green, and blue. The transformation completed; Michiru flips her hair back as her lip gloss appears, spins around, and finishes with her signature pose.

Transformation Sequence: Usagi

Usagi's Cosmic Heart Compact opens, revealing the pink heart-shaped crystal inside, waving her hand over it. It flashes twice and erupts in pink light. Usagi is now standing in the middle of a light blue heart that's spinning to the right. She stands one leg while holding up her arms and begins pirouetting in the opposite direction, going faster until, in a burst of light, pink ribbons envelop her torso and midsection, transforming into her leotard. She elegantly stretches out her arms, and pink ribbons cover them, forming into her gloves. She then raised her right foot high with incredible flexibility, and pink ribbons cloak it changing into her boots. The heart made of blue light then turns into a circle of sparkles swirling around her waist, forming her skirt and bow. Now no longer in light, Usagi spins around a couple of times like a ballerina and takes a small bow. As she comes out from her bow, a crescent moon mark glows in the middle of her forehead. Then, a tiara appears bearing a gold symbol of the Moon, along with her earrings, choker, and her ordango covers. Finally, Usagi opens her eyes, her transformation now complete, and strikes her signature pose.

Transformation Seuence: Ami

The planet Mercury appears, and Ami puts her hand up, her fingernails begin to sparkle in bright blue, and her transformation wand comes to her hand spinning, now having a different design, as she takes hold of it. Next, her body becomes silhouetted in blue as water comes out from her wand. While spinning around, the water swirls around her body, forming her Sailor Uniform and her symbols. Finally, a ripple of water overshadows her, and she emerges wearing her uniform with knee-high blue boots, a pair of earrings, a light blue bow in front and the back, gloves with blue trims, and a blue skirt choker and collar. Ami then turns around, and in the middle of her forehead, her symbol appears, and her tiara materializes. Her transformation now complete; she assumes her final pose, her symbol and planet appearing in the background against a starry sky.

Transformation Seuence: Rei

The planet Mars appears, and Rei puts her hand up, her fingernails begin to sparkle in bright red, and her transformation wand comes to her hand spinning, now having a different design, as she takes hold of it. Her body becomes silhouetted in red as a giant pillar of fire erupts from her wand. While spinning around, the fire swirled around her body, concealing her in a cocoon and burst revealing several tongues of flame surrounding Rei's body. The flames disperse, revealing Rei in her red Sailor Uniform wearing red heels, a pair of earrings, a purple bow in front, a red ribbon in the back, gloves with red trims, and a red skirt, choker, and collar. Rei then turns around, and in the middle of her forehead, her symbol appears, and her tiara materializes. Her transformation now complete; she assumes her final pose, her symbol and planet appearing in the background against a starry sky.

Transformation Seuence: Makoto

The planet Jupiter appears, and Makoto puts her hand up, her fingernails begin to sparkle in bright green, and her transformation wand comes to her hand spinning, now having a different design. Next, her body becomes silhouetted in green as blue lightning erupts from her wand while holding it up. As she spins around a few times, until stopping with her back turned, the lightning swirls around her, forming rings like an atom. Finally, the lightning explodes, revealing Makoto in her green Sailor Uniform wearing green boots, a pair of rose earrings, a pink bow and ribbon, gloves with green trims, and a green skirt, choker, and collar. Makoto then turns around, and in the middle of her forehead, her symbol appears, and her tiara materializes. Her transformation now completed; she assumes her final pose, her symbol and planet appearing in the background against a starry sky.

Transformation Seuence: Minako

The planet Venus appears, and Minako puts her hand up, her fingernails begin to sparkle in bright yellow, and her transformation wand comes to her hand spinning, now having a different design. Her body becomes silhouetted in yellow as yellow stars erupt from her wand while spinning around. As she stops, a yellow circle appears below her and bursts into several yellow stars, revealing Minako in her orange Sailor Uniform wearing orange heels, a pair of earrings, a blue bow in front, and yellow ribbon in the back, gloves with orange trims, and an orange skirt, choker, and collar. Minako then turns around, and in the middle of her forehead, her symbol appears, and her tiara materializes. Her transformation now complete; she assumes her final pose, her symbol and planet appearing in the background against a starry sky.

At that time, Luna and Artemis arrived on the scene, and when they saw what was going on, they were bewildered. Chibiusa was worried, wondering if she should transform as well, but Mamoru held out a hand in front of her blocking her path, giving her a look to stay back.

"Uranus! Neptune! We bear no ill will of you!" said Sailor Moon. "But we can't forgive you for talking to Harusuke like that!"

"That's right! Harusuke fought with everything he had to save this planet!" said Sailor Mercury. "If it weren't for him, we wouldn't be here right now! He even stood up to Sailor Saturn when the rest of us couldn't!"

"Girls, please! That's enough!" Harusuke yelled loudly. "Stop this right now!"

Sailor Moon and the Inner Guardians looked back in surprise as Harusuke had his hands clenched tightly, trying to keep himself together.

"Listen, I don't need you to defend me," Harusuke spoke. "Not like this. So stand down, all of you!"

"Naive to the core as always," Sailor Uranus scoffed with scorn. "You're Usagi's older brother, all right."

"Harusuke, you can't let them get away with talking to you like that!" objected Sailor Jupiter. "Doesn't it make you angry to hear them say those things?!"

"Don't get me wrong, I'm as frustrated as you are, but as much as I hate to say it, they're right," Harusuke spoke bitterly. "I was naive, and because of that, I let Chibiusa get her soul and her Silver Crystal taken, and I was too weak to stop it from happening." He paused as he looked towards Uranus and Neptune. "But even so, I don't regret my decision to try and help Hotaru, not even for a minute! She may be the Guardian of Destruction, but she was and always will be a Guardian just like us! When she was breaking down back when Chibiusa saw her, I could almost hear her soul crying out, saying how lonely she was. All she ever wanted was a friend, and she was all alone! Not only that, but she also sacrificed herself to save Chibiusa and me! So call me whatever you want, but nothing's going to change how I feel and because I'm the Guardian of the Sun, it's my duty to not only protect her but also be there for her because she's a dear friend!"

"Is that so?" asked a voice. "Then, shall we put that to the test then?"

At that moment, stepping out from another piece of the rubble, Sailor Pluto appeared, much to everyone's shock.

"Puu!" cried Chibiusa. "Don't tell me you're their side too?"

"My apologies, Small Lady," said Sailor Pluto. "But I'm afraid Uranus and Neptune are correct. Harusuke was responsible for the unfolding events, and even I cannot turn a blind eye to that. That kind of foolish behavior will not only happen again, but next time, the Earth won't be nearly as lucky. However, that being said, I'm willing to give him a chance."

"And what do you mean by that?" asked Mamoru.

Sailor Pluto pointed her staff at Harusuke. "Harusuke Tsukino, you must fight me alone," she said firmly. "Your goal is to land a single hit on me. If you fail to do so, then you must renounce your title as a Guardian and as the Prince of the Silver Millennium."

"And what happens if I win?" Harusuke asked suspiciously.

Sailor Pluto paused impressively before responding. "If you, then we'll tell you where Hotaru is."

This made everyone's eyes go wide with disbelief.

"What?! Hotaru's alive, after all?!" exclaimed Sailor Moon.

"Then, Specter was telling the truth?!" gasped Sailor Mars incredulously

"Where is she?! Where is Hotaru?!" Chibiusa asked desperately. "Please tell us, Puu!"

"For the time being, she's been under our care. That's all I can tell you," said Sailor Pluto. "However, that may change if Harusuke refuses to accept the challenge."

"And what's that supposed to mean?" Mamoru demanded, his eyes narrowing in a glare.

"I believe you and I both know the implications I'm making, Prince Endymion," Sailor Pluto spoke, her voice cold as ice.

"I can't believe this!" scowled Sailor Venus. "I knew that you guys were acting out of line, but using Hotaru as a hostage?! Have you no shame?!"

But Sailor Pluto ignored Sailor Venus as she gazed solely at the male Tsukino. "So, what say you, Harusuke? Will you accept or not?"

Harusuke stared hard at Sailor Pluto, his eyes glaring daggers, but he calmed down, not wanting to lose his cool. "And you're sure there's no way we can talk this out?" he asked. "I beg you to please reconsider. Undo your transformation, Sailor Pluto, and tell me where Hotaru is."

"If you want her to, then you'll have to do so by force," replied Sailor Uranus.

"Otherwise, I'll consider your rejection as your way of giving up as guardian, and on Hotaru, Harusuke," added Sailor Neptune.

Harusuke then took a deep breath and knew what he had to do. "Very well then," he conceded. "If you want to fight, then so be it. But I want your word that Hotaru will not be harmed in any way. Is that understood?"

Sailor Pluto answered with a nod.

"No, Uncle Sunny! You can't!" objected Chibiusa. "Please don't fight Puu!"

"I don't have a choice, Chibiusa," Harusuke spoke firmly as he walked towards Pluto. "Now that I know that Hotaru's alive, I can't walk away from this. As for the rest of you, stay out of this. This is my fight."

Sailor Moon and the others could only watch with worry as Harusuke pulled down his sleeve, exposing his bracelet, and called out his transformation phrase.

"SOLAR CRYSTAL POWER SHINE ON!"

Transformation Sequence: Solaris (Post Crystal)

Harusuke's hand waves over the Sunstone Crystal, and it begins to pulse with light until it shines brightly. Harusuke, now shrouded in light, holds his hand with the Sunstone Crystal up high and throws his fist to the floor, and his symbol appears beneath him. Light encases his legs from his feet to his hips, and in a burst of light, his boots, along with his belt and some additional armor on his thighs, materialize. Then his right encompasses his right arm from hand to shoulder, and his gloves, along with some armor, appear, and the same happens to his left hand. Harusuke then punches his fists together, creating a spark of light, and crosses his arms as his chest is wrapped in light. Harusuke then throws his arms out, and his chest plate appears, the symbol in the middle glowing brightly. Finally, his helmet appears on his head, this time covering up his entire head, leaving his face exposed. Harusuke opens his eyes smiling with confidence, his transformation now complete, and assumes his signature pose, with the sun appearing in the background while his symbol overlapped it.

"So the star player finally makes his appearance," said Sailor Uranus.

"This should be interesting," said Sailor Neptune.

Both Solaris and Sailor Pluto took a stance, getting ready to start their fight, while Sailor Moon and the others watched on anxiously.

"Just to let you know, I won't pull my punches!" said Solaris. "So get ready, Pluto!"

"Whenever you're ready," replied Sailor Pluto.

Solaris dug his feet into the ground and charged, swinging wildly at his opponent, but Sailor Pluto dodged every one of them with ease, stepping from side to side. Then, as Solaris swung again, Sailor Pluto dodged while turning around and took hold of her staff and stabbed from behind her, nailing the end of it right into Solaris's stomach. The Guardian of the Sun skidded backward, feeling the impact as he stopped himself, but as he looked up, Sailor Pluto had mysteriously disappeared. Then he heard Sailor Moon.

"Solaris! Behind you!"

But despite her warning, Solaris felt something strike him from the back, sending him flying across the area and crashing into some rubble. As Solaris pulled himself out of the rubble, shaking the dizziness out of his head, he punched his hands together and pulled them apart as a large golden ball materialized in them.

"SUNSHINE METEOR!"

He launched his attack with a mighty punch, but Sailor Pluto twirled her staff rapidly, using it to block the incoming attack. Solaris then gathered up power, focusing it on his right hand.

"SOLARIS NOVA FLARE!"

As he thrust out his hand, a powerful beam of white light erupted from his hand. But Sailor Pluto remained calm and composed as she held out her staff in front of her.

"I'm afraid that's not going to be enough to beat me," said Sailor Pluto. "Now, GARNET BALL!"

A pink spherical barrier enshrouded her body, protecting her body from harm as the Nova Flare struck it, dissipating while it remained intact. As Solaris shielded himself from the shockwave of wind with his arms, Sailor Pluto shot out of the smoke getting herself close to him, and held her hand over his chest before he could react.

"Too slow."

She then fired a shockwave of energy that sent Solaris flying and crashing through some rubble once again, skidded along the ground until he came to a stop just a few feet away from Sailor Moon and the Inner Guardians.

"Solaris!" Sailor Moon and the others cried as they rushed over to help him.

But Solaris yelled in their direction. "Stay back! Don't interfere!"

The girls then stopped as Solaris got back on his feet while summoning his blade.

"I told you, this is my fight," he grunted. "I don't need your help right now! Let me handle this!"

"But Solaris...!" protested Sailor Moon.

Then, Mamoru came up, placing a hand on Sailor Moon's shoulder, catching her attention. "Solaris must fight alone to prove himself to the Outer Guardians," he said firmly. "Let him fight."

Sailor Moon and the others still wanted to help their friend, but they did as Mamoru asked and said nothing more.

As Solaris shot forward with his sword poised, Sailor Pluto raised her staff and blocked him, the collision of their weapons making sparks fly. Solaris then continued to attack, swinging his sword, while Pluto parried them with ease.

"Tell me, Solaris," said Sailor Pluto as she pushed back a strike. "Can you tell me why you became a guardian and what it is are you fighting for?"

"You should know already!" Solaris panted as he swung, locking his sword with her staff. "I'm fighting to protect this world, my friends, and my family!"

"But you couldn't stop Mistress 9 from taking Chibiusa's soul and stop her from killing Hotaru, and you can't even beat me," Sailor Pluto pointed out. "How do you expect to be of any use to Sailor Moon if you're this weak?"

"Don't go assuming the outcome before it's even over!" Solaris snapped as he swung his blade even harder. "I'll get stronger for Sailor Moon and the others and beat you!"

"Not with shallow willpower like yours!" Sailor Pluto spoke as she pushed back his sword and nailed Solaris right in the stomach with her staff.

Solaris' eyes bugged out of his sockets, the blow knocking the wind out of his lungs. Then, as he staggered backward, Sailor Pluto twirled her staff as she unleashed one of her signature moves.

"PLUTO CHRONOS TYPHOON!"

With a mighty swing, she summoned a violet whirlwind that swallowed up Solaris, trapping him inside its vortex. The Guardian of Sun screamed in pain as the gales pierced and tore throughout his body.

Chibiusa covered her eyes as they filled up with tears. "I can't watch this anymore!" she cried. "Please, stop hurting Uncle Sunny, Puu!"

The Chronos Typhoon soon died down, and Solaris fell to the ground, having taken major damage. The Guardian of the Sun's armor was cracked in some areas while others had broken off a bit, and the mouthguard that covered his jaw had also come off, showing the scratched that covered his face. It seemed that he was down and out, but then, Solaris slowly got back up, stumbling a bit while using his sword to prop himself up on one knee.

"I'm amazed that you're able to get up after being hit by that," said Sailor Pluto. "But are you sure you wish to continue?"

Solaris gripped his sword and pulled himself back up while taking a stance, gasping for breath while his eyes burned with determination.

"You even need to ask me that?! I'll keep fighting!" he gasped. "I'll beat you, and I'll see Hotaru! After that, I'll get stronger! So much stronger that no one will ever get hurt again, and no one will have to die! If I give up now, everything I worked so hard to protect will have been for nothing! And also, I'm not doing this for me; this is also for Hotaru, too!"

Everyone stared as Solaris' voice grew even fiercer.

"Ever since she was a little girl, Hotaru was treated like a doll, an experiment for a sick man of a father, and a human suit by a monster, but through it all, she still retained her humanity till the very end!" he continued to shout, his eyes filling with tears of emotion. "And even when she knew she wouldn't last, she still chose to save the lives of the people she cared about more than she did herself! That may seem like nothing to you, but it means everything to me!"

As he spoke, Solaris' body began to radiate in a strange glow, much to the surprise of everyone.

"If I give up now, if I fall here, I'd be turning my back on everyone who risked their lives to save me and my family's lives, and that's even worse than death!" Solaris shouted. "Hotaru! Usagi! My friends! Chibiusa! Even my mom! They gave up their lives to save me, and I'd be disgracing them if I quit now! So you can go ahead and say what you want to break my spirit, and you can even break the marrow of my bones, but no matter what, there's one thing that will never break! And that's my spirit! No matter what it takes, I'll get stronger so that I'll not only protect everyone I love, but I'll also make sure that they never had to suffer like Hotaru did, ever again!"

At that moment, the symbol in the middle of Solaris's chest began to shine brightly. Then, with a mighty roar, he exploded in rainbow light, much to the bewilderment of the Sailor Guardians, the cats, Chibiusa, and Mamoru.

"That light!" gasped Chibiusa.

"It was the same light like before!" gasped Sailor Mars. "Could it be...?!"

Then, the symbol of the Sun appeared in the middle of Solaris' forehead, as he yelled at the top of his lungs a new transformation phrase.

"SOLARIS SUPER EVOLUTION! ! !"

Transformation Unknown

Five colored lights shoot out, red, yellow, green, blue, and white, representing the Sailor Guardians. The lights all swirled around Solaris as the boy looked at them in amazement. Then, all of the lights enter right in the center of his chest. A surge of power shoots through his body, causing his body to explode in a silver aura. At the same time, a magic circle appears above him, which bore a resemblance to his symbol but has the five lights and a crescent moon in the middle. The Guardian of the Sun flies up towards the circle, and as he does, various parts of his armor change, becoming slimmer and shinier while turning silver in several bursts of light. First his legs, then his left arm, his right arm, and as his chest changes, a pair of white wings sprout forth from his back, spreading wide. Finally, his helmet changed in design and color, turning silver, and covered his face completely, now with a faceplate and a pair of tinted lenses. Solaris explodes out from the magic circle now in his new form, in a brilliant flash of rainbow light. As he stands on top of it, he crosses his arms and throws them out, fists clenched and striking a standard power-up pose as his, Sailor Moon's, and the Inner Guardians symbols appear, clashing into one and creating a colorful explosion.

"N-No way!" Luna and Artemis exclaimed in shock. "Solaris transformed!"

"It's... that form again!" cried Sailor Moon. "Silver Paladin Mode!"

Solaris gripped his sword and charged at Sailor Pluto at an incredible speed, swinging his blade. Sailor Pluto brought up her staff, preparing to block, but Harusuke feinted and zipped to the left at the last second, aiming straight for Pluto's hip. The Guardian barely managed to block, feeling the force of the attack shake her staff and her arms. She then counterattacked, thrusting her staff, only for Solaris to quickly block it with his sword. The two exchanged and dodged blows back and forth, neither side giving an inch.

Those who were spectating this battle couldn't believe their eyes as Solaris and Sailor Pluto eventually stopped standing a few feet away from each other. But despite his current state, Solaris was growing weary and losing steam.

"It would seem as though despite your new power, you've reached your limited," said Sailor Pluto.

"Even so, I'll still win!" Solaris countered.

He took a stance holding his blade between his eyes as it began to shine with rainbow light. Then he took a stance gripping his sword with two hands while holding it above his shoulders and tensing his legs, and he shot forward, letting out a bellow.

"SOLARIS RAINBOW EXCALIBUR!"

Immediately, Sailor Pluto waved her staff, calling out her barrier again.

"PLUTO GARNET BALL!"

As it encased her again, Solaris trusted his blade forward, piercing at the barrier. The collision of their powers sent shockwaves through the area as their opposing powers ground against each other. Solaris struggled and pushed, putting every ounce of willpower he could muster into his blade, determined to win. Then, the Garnet Ball began to crack, starting small until it grew larger and bigger until it finally broke, shattering and bursting into pieces. As Sailor Pluto's eyes widened in surprise and disbelief, Solaris shot past her, his sword barely scraping the woman on her cheek and crashing to the ground.

Everyone couldn't believe their eyes, even Sailor Uranus and Neptune.

"Unbelievable!" Sailor Uranus spoke in amazement.

"He not only broke through Sailor Pluto's Garnet Ball, but he also managed to scratch her!" said Sailor Neptune. "He did it! He won!"

Now heavily exhausted, returning to his normal form, Solaris slowly got back up, gasping and heaving for breath as he bravely faced Sailor Pluto again, defiant.

"I... won't lose... again," he rasped as he slowly walked towards his opponent. "I'll get stronger... I've got to... I'll get strong enough... to protect... Sailor Moon... my friends... and Hotaru... I'll... grow strong enough... to protect... everyone. That way... they won't... sacrifice themselves...for me again."

When he was close enough to Sailor Pluto, Solaris raised a trembling fist and swung weakly, only to miss as he started to fall forward.

But then, Sailor Pluto caught him. "That's enough, Solaris," she said. "I believe you've won this fight. Congratulations."

Solaris weakly looked up at Sailor Pluto in confusion as everyone else rushed over to them.

"You did it, Solaris! You won!" cheered Sailor Moon. "That's my big bro!"

"Yeah. You were amazing!" agreed Sailor Jupiter. "You really gave it your all!"

"Thanks, guys," panted Solaris with a weak smile.

Then, Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune came up as well and kneeled before Solaris.

"Well done, Solaris, or should I say, my Prince," said Sailor Neptune. "You're as strong as we expected. We are pleased you passed the trial."

"Wait, trial?" repeated Sailor Mercury. "What do you mean?"

"You couldn't tell? Solaris was being tested," said Sailor Uranus.

"Wait, tested? What for?" asked Sailor Moon.

"To see if his bravery and willpower," said Sailor Pluto. "Not only that but to also see if he could reaccess Silver Paladin."

"We're sorry that we said such terrible things," added Sailor Neptune. "We feel bad for it and hope you can forgive us."

Solaris and the others didn't know what to say.

Sailor Pluto then stood up. "Now then, I believe it's time we make it up to you by giving you your reward for overcoming this trial," she said as she looked behind her. "You may come out now."

At that moment, Specter appeared holding a baby in their arms. Sailor Moon and the others were surprised to see a baby in the bundle as he walked towards them.

"Hold on, a baby?" said Sailor Venus. "Whose baby is that?"

Then, Chibiusa gasped, for when she saw the baby's familiar violet hair and eyes. Her eyes then filled with tears as she rushed over. "I... don't believe it!" she spoke. "It's her! It's Hotaru!"

Sailor Moon and the others gasped as they looked at Chibiusa and then at the baby.

"No way! That's Hotaru?!" exclaimed Sailor Jupiter.

Baby Hotaru looked up and smiled while reaching out for Chibiusa's hand. And as the pink ordango gave the baby her hand, the symbol of Saturn appeared in the middle of her forehead, glowing.

"Look! That's the symbol of Saturn!" gasped Mamoru. "It really is her!"

"So, she was reincarnated after all!" Sailor Moon spoke happily. "Thank goodness."

Solaris stared at Baby Hotaru, feeling so bewildered that he couldn't speak. Baby Hotaru then looked in his direction and started cooing while reaching out towards him. At first, the Guardian of the Sun hesitated, but then he reached out his hand, allowing the baby to grab his fingers. His eyes began to feel with tears of relief and joy as he smiled too.

"I'm so glad for you," he whispered. "Welcome back, Hotaru."

At that moment, a soft purple glow radiated throughout Baby Hotaru's body. The glow then traveled towards Solaris's hand and into his Solar Crystal, which changed into violet and bore the symbol of Saturn within it.

Solaris couldn't help but be surprised. "M-My crystal!"

"It looks like you bonded to Hotaru, just like Sailor Moon and the others," said Specter. "Now, you can use her abilities as well through the Unison Fusion."

Sailor Uranus then placed her hand on top of Solaris's crystal, as did Neptune and Pluto. "And don't forget about us, too," she said with a smile. "Consider this another reward for passing the trial."

The Outer Guardian's bodies also radiated with a glow, Uranus being yellow, Neptune aquamarine, and Pluto purple. Their auras were also sucked into Solaris's crystal, and it changed into the same colors while bearing the symbols for each guardian.

"This couldn't have come at a better time," Solaris thought to himself. "Bet they'll come in handy once I master them along with this power." He looked up at the Outer Guardians. "Well, I guess I should thank you. I appreciate this. And thank you for keeping Hotaru safe."

"You're quite welcome," said Sailor Pluto. "But now, it's time for us to leave this city."

"Wait, what do you mean leave?" asked Sailor Moon.

"We've completed what we came here to do," smiled Sailor Uranus. "And now we've been bestowed a new mission."

"The world was saved from the Silence thanks to the Messiah," said Sailor Neptune. "And now that we've found her, our work here is finished."

"The true Messiah?" repeated Sailor Moon. "Who is she?"

Sailor Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto couldn't help but chuckle.

"That's just like her to say that," said Sailor Uranus. "Even after turning the Guardian of Destruction to an ally."

"But where will you go now?" wondered Solaris.

Sailor Uranus looked up at the sky. "Not sure," she replied. "Could be somewhere far away from here or even close by."

"And...will we meet again?" asked Chibiusa hopefully.

"Yes, of course, we will, Small Lady," said Sailor Pluto. "After all, we're friends. Always and forever. I'm sure we'll all meet again."

Chibiusa then rushed to Sailor Pluto, hugging her while her eyes filled with tears. "I know that. We're all friends," she sobbed as she wiped her tears. "We're all Guardians, so we'll definitely meet again! I'm sure of it!"

"Please don't cry, little princess," soothed Sailor Neptune as she took Hotaru back into her arms. "We all love you very much, so we will come back to you. That's a promise. And as a token to remind you, I'd like you to have this."

She then summoned forth her Deep Aqua Mirror and handed it to the pink ordango.

"Make sure to look at yourself in that mirror often," went on Sailor Neptune. "And until we meet again, work hard to become an even stronger Sailor Guardian, Small Lady."

"Also, please make sure to keep our prince and princess safe," said Sailor Pluto. "Protect them well."

They then turned to leave, walking away, and in a gust of wind, the Outer Guardians disappeared. All was now silent, with the wind blowing gently through the area as everyone stared up at the sky.

"I know that we'll see each other again," Sailor Moon thought to herself. "Haruka. Michiru. Setsuna. And you, too, Hotaru."

Then, just when everyone thought it was over, Sailor Uranus mysteriously reappeared in front of Solaris, surprising everyone.

"I almost forgot one more thing," said Sailor Uranus. "Consider this your second reward, Solaris, and my way of saying goodbye."

Before Solaris could even speak, Sailor Uranus held him by his cheeks and kissed him on the lips right in front of everyone. A moment of silence passed, then everyone let out one giant scream of shock.

"HUUUUHHHHH?!"

As Sailor Uranus pulled away, she gave one last smile and took off, disappearing into the wind. Needless to say, everyone was speechless, but Sailors Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, and Venus were all red in the face, completely dumbfounded.

"D-Did Haruka just-!" stammered Chibiusa.

"I think she did!" said Sailor Moon. "She-! She just kissed Solaris!"

All Solaris could do was stand there frozen like a statue, unable to speak or even breathe.

Specter, who had stepped away from the others, was sitting on top of a piece of rubble. They had seen everything.

"Well now, that was pretty bold of you, Sailor Uranus," they said to themselves in amusement. "Didn't think you were the type to get mischievous with Harusuke. But, of course, thanks to that stunt, all the girls are now going to go crazy. But I suppose there must be a bit of chaos to make things interesting. And things certainly have gotten interesting, to say the least."

They tipped their hat upwards, revealing their shining silver eyes, their skin being light-skinned, a small bang of black hair framing their eyes, and their lips rose pink, which curled into a smile.

"Harusuke Tsukino, you and the others continue to grow stronger," they said in a female voice. "For things will only grow all the more difficult for you, in the battle to protect Earth and in life, but I'm confident that you'll all be able to overcome them. Especially you, Solaris. After all, you are someone I look up to."

And with a turn of their heel, Specter jumped high to the air disappearing into the skies.

All right! There you have it! The end of Sailor Moon S of this fanfic!

I think I will take a much-needed break to plan the next part of my story!

As always, thank you all so much for supporting and sticking with me on this story, and I'll see you in the next chapter!

Dragomaster, signing off!