Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon Sailor Stars: Chaos Theory
Act 31: The Royal Court of the Silver Millennium
By: Sora Kazeno
Everyone was in high spirits leaving Rei's shrine. It was the end of the second day of their group study and most of them had accomplished in completing their school assignments. Ami had completed all of her work, along with Yaten. Makoto and Minako still have several hours of school work to complete. Seiya and Usagi were halfway done. Rei enjoyed the company of everyone else while she read and worked on a few tasks for her private school. Their feelings of accomplishment quickly turned to anger at the sight of Haumea.
"I've been looking for you," Haumea said with a wicked grin.
Quarora appeared next to her, "So these are the little girls giving you such a hard time?" He eyed them closely. "They are much younger than I expected." His eyes narrowed when he saw Usagi. Haumea's description of the one they were after was unmistakable with Usagi's appearance. "The Guardian."
"Who are you?" Rei asked as he eyed the older man. He was a new face to them.
"Quarora," he responded without interest. "But we're not here to chat." He raised his hands over his head, a sign he was about to attack.
"Mercury Eternal, Make Up!"
"Mars Eternal, Make Up!"
"Jupiter Eternal, Make Up!"
"Venus Eternal, Make Up!"
"Fighter Star Power, Make Up!"
"Maker Star Power, Make Up!"
"Healer Star Power, Make Up!"
"Cosmos Crystal Power, Make Up!"
Quarora's attack separated the senshi into two groups. The Inner Senshi to the right and to the left the Starlights and Cosmos.
Haumea eyed Sailor Star Fighter carefully. The senshi stood next to Cosmos in a protective stance. Haumea thought it was funny considering Fighter was the one that would likely need the protection. However, her plan today was to go after Sailor Cosmos. She needed to know if what they suspected was indeed another weakness of Cosmos. If they needed to she could always go after Sailor Star Fighter again.
"I'll leave this to you," Quarora said as he turned around walking away and he disappearing into thin air.
Sailor Cosmos took a few steps forward in front of the Starlights and the Inner Senshi. "This is my battle," she said, as she stood in the middle between Haumea and the other senshi. She didn't want to see anyone else hurt because of her. She knew she could defeat Haumea if they fought individually.
Haumea grinned. She took the bait. "I wouldn't have it any other way."
Quarora reappeared behind Sailor Cosmos without a sound. He smirked.
"Odango, behind you!" Sailor Star Fighter shouted, but there was little she could do. Everything happened too fast.
Sailor Cosmos turned around to face Quarora. She reacted exactly how he expected which made his plan easier to execute. Quarora sprayed her with a red colored mist. As soon as Sailor Cosmos inhaled some of the mist she began to cough. She felt like she could barely breathe. Between coughs she gasped for air. Her knees buckled beneath her and she hit the pavement hard.
The other senshi rushed to her aid, but there was little they could do. The Starlights reached her first and pulled Sailor Cosmos away from the mist. None of them were affected by the mist. For some reason, it seemed to only affect Sailor Cosmos.
"I … can barely…. breathe…." Sailor Cosmos stuttered between coughs. Sailor Star Fighter remained next to her. She was desperate to help her, but she didn't know how. Sailor Cosmos was no longer in the red cloud but she still struggled to breath.
"Mercury Aqua Mirage!"
"Jupiter Coconut Cyclone!"
Sailor Mercury and Sailor Jupiter unleashed their attacks at Haumea to keep her occupied and prevent her from attacking Sailor Cosmos. They knew the Princess would need time to recover. Haumea laughed with glee and easily dodged their attacks.
Meanwhile Sailor Mars and Sailor Venus attacked Quarora.
"Mars Snake Fire!"
"Venus Rolling Heart Vibration!"
Quarora evaded their attacks with ease. The girls were too busy trying to attack the duo rather than trying to defeat them; their attacks where cast haphazardly. He grinned at their discovery. "It looks like we have discovered a second weakness of the Guardian." He taunted them. He wanted to make them suffer since it was because of them that Deucalion was gone. "It is ironic, is it not? The legendary senshi from Kinmoku now struggles to breathe when exposed to elements from its atmosphere." He laugher louder this time, as Sailor Cosmos continued to struggle to breathe.
Sailor Cosmos didn't understand what was happening. The mist continued to linger in her lungs and the air around her. She needed a gust of wind to clear her air away. She forced herself to concentrate. She grabbed her staff and it flashed brightly, it created a gust of wind knocking any remnants of the mist to disperse from the air near her. But it was too late, the damage was already done. She felt even more lightheaded after using her powers. She begun to feel dizzy and weak just like she had experienced while she had been on Kinmoku. She felt like she would collapse any moment if it weren't for Sailor Star Fighter resting her arms along her back to prevent her from collapsing. She was powerless. All of her energy seemed to be drained. She felt helpless in front of her enemies and everyone was worried about her. Her breathing became easier and she coughed less, but she was incredibly weak.
Haumea snickered at the display and told them, "That was only a minimal dose. Imagine what would have happened if he used a higher concentration? I guess we will have to find out next time."
"Our experiment was a success for today. We've done what we needed to Haumea," Quarora said signaling her to leave with him.
"But we can defeat them here and now!" Haumea argued with him. She wanted revenge for her fallen comrade.
"Another day, you know it is not part of his orders for today," Quarora retorted back. Quarora emphasized the word "he" to Haumea so she would understand. He needed to keep her in check to prevent her from doing something that would go against Eris' orders. It wasn't time for the other senshi to learn about Eris and their grand plan for this planet.
Haumea bit her tongue. She knew Quarora was correct. Exposing the weaknesses for the Guardian was the next step. She didn't understand why Eris did not conquer Earth already. But he must have his reasons and it was not her position to question him. "Until we meet again," she told the senshi. She turned to Quarora and nodded her head. She was ready to leave. They vanished without another word.
"Odango, are you alright?" Sailor Star Fighter asked Sailor Cosmos. Fighter was very concerned about her present state. Cosmos appeared pale. The image reminded Fighter of how Cosmos appeared on Kinmoku when she began to get sick due to the effects the planet had against her.
"… I don't feel well…." Sailor Cosmos murmured. It was the same as last time. She needed to leave Earth again. "The Prayer Room…" she whispered. It had cured her last time and she hoped it would do the same again this time. "I need to return home…" Sailor Cosmos struggled to stand and would not have been able to without Sailor Star Fighter's help.
"Let me go with you," Sailor Star Fighter said. She wasn't sure if Sailor Cosmos would be able to make it on her own.
Sailor Cosmos nodded her head in agreement. She knew it would be a near impossible task if she went by herself. The orb on the top of her staff grew brightly for a moment and they disappeared.
The other girls exchanged worried glances. They knew the Black Moon would exploit all of Sailor Cosmos' weaknesses.
"We know they will go to any lengths to win," said Sailor Mars in dismay. "It means we should not hesitate to do what is necessary to protect Usagi." A sense of dread began to build.
"I think it shows a sign of desperation," Sailor Star Marker chimed into the discussion. "Unless they have a trump card they will not be able to defeat Sailor Cosmos. We must approach each battle seriously and we cannot rely on Sailor Cosmos for every battle."
"Desperation makes them more dangerous," added Sailor Star Healer with concern in her eyes.
The bright white light faded near the entrance to the palace. Sailor Cosmos staggered forward, while Sailor Star Fighter held her arm around Sailor Cosmos tightly for support. Sailor Star Fighter hated to see her in this condition. She knew it would probably not be the last time; this thought worried her. She had a hard time imagining the Black Moon not using this tactic against Cosmos again. They walked in silence until they reached the Prayer Room.
Fighter slowly guided Cosmos to the large crystal once more. "Stand back," Sailor Cosmos instructed Sailor Star Fighter. "I'm not sure how the crystal will react and I don't want you to be hurt."
Sailor Star Fighter was about to argue, but decided against it. She took a few steps back, but she stayed close by in case Sailor Cosmos collapsed.
As soon as Cosmos' fingertips touched the crystal, it reacted with an explosion of light. The Maboroshi no Ginzuishou flashed within Cosmos' staff. Her sailor fuku began to sparkle as it grew longer. The garment transformed into the flowing gown of Princess Serenity. The crescent moon on her forehead shone brightly. She gradually felt her strength return to her. She closed her eyes and enjoyed the warmth she felt.
A gold orb of energy appeared to right of Princess Serenity. She turned her head sharply at the sudden light. She relaxed once she realized there was a person within the sphere.
Sailor Star Fighter took a few steps closer to Princess Serenity, unsure of what was happening. She closed the distance between the two of them, if needed to she could shield the Princess from the attack.
"It's okay," Princess Serenity reassured Sailor Star Fighter. The light from the large crystal diminished.
The orb faded and revealed a woman with long silver hair and wearing a floor length white dress. It was Queen Serenity, her mother. "Mother…" Princess Serenity whispered with a few tears in her eyes.
"Hello, my daughter," the Queen greeted Princess Serenity. The Queen turned her head to the side when she noticed Serenity was not alone. "I do not recognize you as a senshi from the Milky Way… and it is curious as to how you are allowed within these sacred grounds."
"It's okay, Mother," said Princess Serenity, as she lowered herself to the floor to be able to see her mother better. The crystal had restored her and she was back to full strength.
"Mother…?" Sailor Star Fighter repeated. "But…. how?"
"I'll explain later," Princess Serenity said to Sailor Star Fighter. She knew her mother would not be able to materialize for long and didn't want to waste a second. "This is Sailor Star Fighter, from Kinmoku."
"Kinmoku?" Queen Serenity repeated in alarm. "A Sailor Starlight… here…no…" Her eyes lowered in disappointment. "My daughter… what has happened to you? Your sailor fuku… is it…" She couldn't bring herself to finish the sentence.
Princess Serenity glowed for a moment and became Sailor Cosmos again.
Queen Serenity stared at her daughter's new appearance. Her eyes focused on the eight pointed star on her forehead. "The mark of the Guardian… so the predictions were true." There was sadness in her voice. "I hoped you would never have to awaken those abilities."
"You knew?"
"Yes."
"How?"
"When you were a young child, you played with the Maboroshi no Ginzuishou one day… and at the age of six you displayed mastery that would normally take an adult years to achieve. The Maboroshi no Ginzuishou reacts the strongest to those with a pure heart… the same pure heart which allowed you to become Sailor Cosmos. I knew at that moment the Guardian was no longer a legend," Queen Serenity explained, it pained her to see her daughter as the Guardian.
"You never told me this before…." Sailor Cosmos' voice trailed off. "Why? It was difficult when these powers first emerged…. I was not myself… I was controlled by Chaos."
"I never wanted you to have the life a senshi. There are too many hardships. I'm sorry."
"By working together, we've overcome many hardships," Sailor Cosmos said as she recalled several of them. "It has allowed me to grow as a person… to become stronger than I ever thought I could be." She smiled. "Though there is something else I do not understand… Mother, why is Kinmoku toxic to us?"
"It is a mystery we were never able to solve… wait how do you know this? Have you been there?"
"Yes… I spent several weeks with the Sailor Starlights training at the Scarlet palace. I still have much to learn about my new abilities. I became very sick and they brought me back here. The crystal saved me."
"You must limit your expose to that planet or it will kill you. Once your abilities grow as Sailor Cosmos, it might be possible for you to develop an immunity since Sailor Cosmos was originally from the Kinmoku star system… but until then you must not return there. Being of lunar descent is deadly."
Sailor Cosmos slowly let out a deep breath. "I wish I would be able to go back there… it is a wonderful place with such caring people…" She turned to Sailor Star Fighter, "If you have to return to Kinmoku it would be so hard to be apart from you."
Sailor Star Fighter gave Sailor Cosmos a half smile and placed her hand on top of Sailor Cosmos. She squeezed Sailor Cosmos' hand lightly.
Queen Serenity narrowed her eyes at the obvious display of affection. "Where is Prince Endymion… he should know all of this as well."
Sailor Cosmos bit her lip as she thought about how she would break the news to her mother. "I… I am no longer with him…" her voice trailed off. It sounded weird for her to admit it out loud. She reflected back on how her mother gave her life to save her during the destruction of the Silver Millennium. She neglected to tell her mother about the turmoil she felt and how she might run back into Endymion's arms at any moment.
Queen Serenity did not respond at first, but her eyes displayed disappointment. "What happened?" She knew something grave must have occurred in order for her to cast him aside.
"A lot of things happened since I spoke to you last," Sailor Cosmos said, as she shifted uncomfortably on her knees.
It was clear Sailor Cosmos did not want to go into further details. "You used to be so close… you were to be married within a few months, if not for Queen Beryl. I used my powers to give you a second chance-"
"I am using this second chance wisely," Sailor Cosmos cut off her mother. It was clear Queen Serenity was disappointed in her decisions. "Endymion… has done some questionable things and has hurt me by his actions." She turned to look at Sailor Star Fighter as she continued, "I love Seiya and he will never hurt me like Endymion has." Sailor Cosmos began to feel an uneasiness in her stomach when she thought about how she had hurt Seiya, even though he was unaware.
Queen Serenity was quiet as she reflected on her daughter's words. After a long hesitation she spoke, "It is just like the previous legend then." If it is what she chose, so be it. She knew her daughter would change if she awakened as Cosmos. She turned her gaze to Sailor Star Fighter, the Starlight that captured her heart. She gasped when she noticed the mark on Sailor Star Fighter's brooch.
The Queen's full attention turned to Sailor Star Fighter, "That mark… why do you have that mark?" She didn't give the Starlight time to answer, "That is the mark of the Royal Family and you are not-" she suddenly stopped talking mid-sentence. Queen Serenity turned her attention to her daughter, Princess Serenity, "How old are you?"
Sailor Cosmos was confused by her question, "I'm seventeen…" she responded slowly. Her question seemed random. "Why is my age important?" Sailor Cosmos tried to make sense of her mother's reactions. "What is going on?"
"The mark on Sailor Star Fighter's brooch…. symbolizes your coming of age," Queen Serenity explained to the duo. "Shortly before the new Queen sits upon the throne, she selects senshi to be a part of the Royal Court. They serve as protectors to the Silver Millennium; those that she finds worthy." Her eyes hardened as she added, "Your ascension to the throne to the Silver Millennium will happen soon." She smiled at her daughter, "Your time is at hand."
Sailor Cosmos was taken aback at her mother's words. "Are… are you sure? That can't be right."
Sailor Star Fighter was speechless while she digested this new information. Even though, they had recently discussed Sailor Cosmos' dreams she had a hard time picturing Usagi as a Queen. Sailor Star Fighter assumed Usagi would become Queen, years down the road, but not anytime soon.
"I am sure," Queen Serenity reassured her, "No one outside of the galaxy has ever received this mark. It was unheard of … an outside senshi to join the Royal Court. However, a lot of changes have occurred. Sailor Cosmos had her own soul mate long before you, Serenity, met Endymion." Queen Serenity's image began to fade as she offered her departing words, "All I ask Serenity is that you do not forget your past here. The abilities you will learn as Queen will be the key to your future and a peaceful reign. Goodbye, my daughter." Queen Serenity vanished from sight.
Sailor Cosmos did not speak as she stared at the space where her mother had just stood before she vanished. Hundreds of thoughts raced through her mind. She was not ready to be Queen. She was breaking a rule to have an outsider serve as a member of the Royal Court. It was a lot to take in at once. What did her mother mean to not forget her past? She had more questions than answers.
Sailor Star Fighter closed the distance between them and hugged Sailor Cosmos tightly. Fighter's actions snapped Sailor Cosmos back to the present. She tried to give Sailor Star Fighter a reassuring smile, but she could not hide the worry from her. "I'll help you in any way that I can." Sailor Cosmos nodded her head slowly. "I'm not going to give you up," Sailor Star Fighter whispered in Sailor Cosmos' ear.
Sailor Cosmos hugged Sailor Star Fighter back tightly without saying a word. She just wanted to be held for a few moments. They eventually parted and Sailor Cosmos took a deep breath. She needed to refocus her thoughts. If she was going to become Queen, this palace needed a lot of work. Sailor Cosmos slowly stood up and picked up her staff. Sailor Cosmos reached her hand down to Sailor Star Fighter to offer her assistance standing up, "I think I want to work on restoring some of the palace while I'm here."
Sailor Star Fighter clutched Sailor Cosmos' hand and stood up. "Sounds great," she added with a smile.
Sailor Cosmos led Sailor Star Fighter down several corridors until they reached a large empty room with a lone staircase against the back wall. It was the same room Sailor Cosmos had tried to restore before, but could not recall all of the details. She stood thoughtfully in the center of the room with Sailor Star Fighter. "Not forgetting my past…" she murmured quickly. She closed her eyes, subconsciously she transformed into Princess Serenity. When she opened her eyes there were hundreds of people inside the room. They were dressed in beautiful ball gowns.
Sailor Star Fighter gasped while she spun around the room to see hundreds of people dancing, talking, and completely obvious to the two. The people were transparent and ignored Sailor Star Fighter and Princess Serenity. Sailor Starr Fighter looked over at Princess Serenity and witnessed a broad smile on her face. Sailor Star Fighter wondered if this was a past memory Princess Serenity had of the place. Sailor Star Fighter's questions were answered when she observed another Princess Serenity descending the staircase. Sailor Star fighter turned her attention to the staircase. A man with a following black and red cape quickly approached the staircase. It was a person Sailor Star Fighter recognized all too well.
Tuxedo Kamen without a top hat, walked over to Princess Serenity and reached out his hand to touch hers. The gesture startled her; her eyes were drawn to the man that placed his hand on top of hers. She turned to face him. Once she realized it was him, she smiled warmly.
"May I have this dance?" Tuxedo Kamen asked his Princess.
Princess Serenity smiled at him and responded, "Of course." She twirled around in a circle once she reached the dance floor. "Endymion…" she murmured happily.
They danced silently for a moment until he broke the silence when he held her body close to his. "I'm sure a bitter war is about to break out between the Earth and the Moon," his voice was filled with frustration. They did not speak for a few minutes and danced wordlessly.
Sailor Star Fighter watched the scene in front of her. She was convinced it was a memory Usagi was reliving. She turned to face the Princess Serenity next to her. Princess Serenity watched on with saddened eyes. Her hands were clasped in front of her, below her bust. Sailor Star Fighter turned her attention back to the couple on the dance floor.
Tuxedo Kamen slowly turned the young woman to the side and discussed his concerns, "The Earth and the Moon will become future enemies. I am sure of it. I had to hide my identity for that very reason." Princess Serenity did not respond to his remarks as she took everything in. "I'm sorry everything has turned out this way." He pulled her close once more as they danced to the music.
Princess Serenity struggled to accept his response. "Will you… become my enemy?" She asked her question slowly and was disappointed in the answer she received.
"Metalia's power has increased and it is not a human being, but rather a mass of evil energy," Tuxedo Kamen explained in a concerned tone. He took a few steps forward as he danced with Princess Serenity and dipped her forward. He continued in a hushed tone, "Beryl is a witch. She is using Metalia's power. She is trying to conquer the Moon and the Earth."
They paused on the dance floor. Princess Serenity looked up at Tuxedo Kamen sadly. Tuxedo Kamen pulled her closer to him. Princess Serenity placed her right hand on his chest. She slowly glanced up at him and then rested her head against his chest. She felt dread after hearing his words. Their marriage was supposed to join the two planets together and now it seemed everything they tried to build was about to be ruined. They remained silent while they pondered what would happen to their respective homes.
Tuxedo Kamen took a step back from the Princess. He held her hand and gently led her to an outside balcony.
The two were out of sight from Princess Serenity and Sailor Star Fighter. Princess Serenity hesitated; she knew what was about to happen, but she was compelled to watch it again. It was bizarre to see herself from the distance. It was a different experience from first time she recalled this memory.
Sailor Star Fighter followed behind the Princess. She wasn't sure what she was about to witness, but it was important she was here since Princess Serenity was sharing this memory with her.
Tuxedo Kamen spoke in a hushed tone, "We have to stop Metalia right away and stop Beryl as well." The two stood at a short distance from each other. Princess Serenity's eyes were filled with tears as she looked into his eyes. "I will need your help," he pleaded with her. He gently grabbed her right hand and asked her, "Do you believe me?"
Princess Serenity did not respond verbally at first as she continued to stare into his eyes. Her eyes twinkled for a moment and told him, "Yes."
"Serenity…" Tuxedo Kamen whispered. He didn't break eye contact with her the entire time since they walked out onto the balcony.
Tears threatened to fall from her eyes at any moment. "Endymion…" she whispered back. She closed her eyes as Tuxedo Kamen leaned forward to kiss her deeply. They both knew they didn't have much time left. Tears flowed down Princess Serenity's cheek as she kissed her prince. He held her close in his arms, afraid to let her go. But it was not to last.
A large, dark cloud appeared on the Moon. It came from the direction of Earth. The ground beneath them began to shake. A section of the palace was destroyed and sections of the pillar crumbled to the ground.
An army of soldiers stood on the hill. Many had shields and swords. They were ready to serve Beryl and conquer the Silver Millennium in her name.
"Shabon Spray!"
"Fire Soul!"
"Supreme Thunder!"
"Crescent Beam!"
The four senshi attacked a large dark cloud. It was Metalia. The attack didn't faze the large cloud of dark energy. The mass responded back by releasing a large blast of energy at the kingdom. Sections of the kingdom turned to rumble.
Sailor Star Fighter was speechless as she watched everything unfold before her. She realized the kingdom was on the verge of destruction. She watched the demise of Princess Serenity's kingdom, her home. Sailor Star Fighter recalled how she felt when the Scarlet Palace was destroyed by Chaos.
Queen Beryl appeared on a large piece of rubble. Her boisterous laugh emphasized the pleasure she felt with the destruction around her. Once the laughter subsided she spoke. "I will be the new ruler of the Moon and Earth. It will be the birth of the Dark Kingdom!" She raised her staff in the air and unleashed more dark energy on to the crumbling palace. The energy destroyed the top of the dome of the Grand Hall. She lowered eyes when she noticed her pray; she teleported next to Princess Serenity. The Princess stood there alone.
Princess Serenity gasped and placed her hands over her mouth. She was in a state of shock. She didn't know what she could do to save her kingdom. She was powerless compared to the others.
Queen Beryl eyed Princess Serenity carefully and inspected the white dress on her figure. It was very similar to the Queen's. "You must be Princess Serenity?" She asked with an icy tone. It was apparent she despised the princess.
Princess Serenity did not respond to her question and took a few steps back to place more distance between the two of them.
Princess Serenity's actions confirmed Queen Beryl's assumptions. She glared at her. "You've taken a lot from me. I will return the favor by destroying your pretty face!" She lunged forward at the Princess.
Princess Serenity placed her hands in front of her face to protect herself.
A red rose was thrown at Queen Beryl, preventing her from attacking the Princess. Queen Beryl released a hissing sound from her mouth since she was caught off guard. She angrily turned her head in the direction the rose had been thrown from. Her facial expression softened when she realized Prince Endymion stood there.
"I won't forgive you if you lay a finger on the Princess," Prince Endymion said, as he took a few steps forward.
"Endymion," Queen Beryl said coyly.
Prince Endymion leaped off his feet and landed in front of Princess Serenity, anger plastered across his face. He extended his arm to the side to take a protective stance in front of Princess Serenity. He made his intentions clear; he was going to do anything to protect her.
Queen Beryl did not say a word; her body slowly rose from the ground. She hovered in the air before she spoken again. She had an offer to make him. "Why do you protect the Princess of the Moon when you are the Prince of Earth?" She continued to speak, without giving him a chance to answer her question. "If you marry me, you would be King of the Moon and the Earth."
Sailor Star Fighter was taken aback by Queen Beryl's words. It became clear to the Starlight that Queen Beryl blamed Princess Serenity for Endymion not returning her love. Queen Beryl was in a one sided love. A feeling Sailor Star Fighter knew all too well, until recently.
"Metalia is misguiding you, Beryl," Endymion responded in a firm tone. He tried his best to reason with her. He wanted to avoid a war between the two kingdoms. "You need to wake up and rid yourself of the evil."
His words did not sit well with Queen Beryl it only anger her more. "Shut up!" She yelled at him in rage. She did not handle rejection well. She believed she could turn Endymion to her side with ease. "I will kill you too!" She nearly screamed at him in response.
The overhead mass of dark energy struck the kingdom again. A few buildings remained partly standing. The kingdom was nearly destroyed, but she knew as long as the royal family still existed it could be repaired and flourish once more.
Endymion suddenly rose from the ground. He was caught in the vortex of energy that attacked the kingdom. He realized he was trapped and there was little he could do.
"Endymion!" Serenity exclaimed, the energy knocked her to the ground. She looked up at him with panic in her eyes.
Endymion could feel his body moving further away from her, higher in the sky. "Serenity!" He shouted back. He was terrified it would be the last time he saw her. "Stay back!" He urged her. He did not want her to be caught in the vortex of dark energy.
Princess Serenity rose to her feet and rushed forward calling out his name again, "Endymion!" She was terrified she was about to lose her love. She pushed herself and lunged forward. She needed to be closer to him. She refused to allow Queen Beryl to take him away from her. "Endymion!" She shouted his name again. She ignored the warning he gave her and entered the vortex. Soon she was floating in the air towards his direction.
Prince Endymion frowned at her actions. He didn't want her to share the same fate as him. They both reach out their hands toward each other and held each other's hand one final time. After a considerable struggle, their fingertips finally meet for a few brief seconds before the two of them were blasted apart.
A wave of dark energy hit Prince Endymion in the back. He cried out in pain and their hands separated.
Princess Serenity then cried out in pain as a blast of dark energy hit her body. Her body became limp as the last of her tears fell down her cheeks. She was gone. Her body floated lifeless in the air arched back. Prince Endymion's body float close by in the same fashion.
Sailor Star Fighter turned her head to the side. She has just witnessed the original death of Princess Serenity. It reminded her of the horror she witnessed when the Scarlett Palace was under attack by Sailor Galaxia. But this was worse. Serenity had willingly followed someone into death. Sailor Star Fighter clenched her fist in exasperation. How could her relationship with Usagi compare? She shook her head to dismiss the thought. A familiar figure out of the corner of her eye redirected her attention to the final moments.
A woman with white hair and a flowing white dress cried out when she saw the bodies of her daughter and the Prince of Earth. "No!" Queen Serenity screamed in horror. Tears flowed freely down her cheeks.
Luna stood next to her in disbelief, "Princess Serenity…" Luna sobbed. Artemis was silent next Luna.
Queen Beryl laughed gleefully at the demise of the Moon Princess. "The Princess of the Moon is dead!" She gloated. If she couldn't have Endymion, she made sure no one else would be able to have him.
Queen Serenity dropped to her knees in grief. "Serenity…" she whispered her daughter's name. The next couple of months were supposed to be the happiest time of her life as she prepared for her marriage. Everything was taken away from the Queen in an instant. Her daughter and her kingdom. She refused to let it end like this. A crescent shaped wand appeared in her hands. She stared at the wand for a moment before she placed the Maboroshi no Ginzuishou into the wand. The crystal shone brightly as Queen Serenity stared at the object through her tears.
The light caused Luna and Artemis to look up at the Queen in fear of what she was about to do. Queen Serenity raised her wand. She was prepared to unleash the horrifying power, which would undoubtedly end her life. "But if you use the Maboroshi no Ginzuishou…" Luna's voice trailed off. She couldn't finish the sentence out loud. She witnessed enough death today and couldn't bear to see another.
Queen Serenity ignored her own tears and focused on the crystal. "It is alright Luna," she responded in an eerily calm voice. "My life is nothing compared to guarantying peace between the Moon and the Earth." She tried to give them a reassuring smile, but it seemed flat. She raised the crescent moon wand above her head. She was about to sacrifice herself for those she loved. "Moon Healing Escalation!" Pink energy poured out of the crystal and head toward Queen Beryl and her minions.
Within less than a minute, Queen Serenity and the two cats were the only ones that remain from the battle. The Queen's voice was weak as she whispered her final instructions to the two cats. "I've trapped everyone inside the crystal. Everyone will be reborn on Earth. It will give Serenity another chance, but should Queen Beryl return you will need to guide her. Only a descendant of the Silver Millennium can use the crescent moon wand. You cannot let the Maboroshi no Ginzuishou fall into the wrong hands. The crystal will truly shine when it is used by one of a pure heart." Queen Serenity lie flat on her back, struggling to breath. She raised her hand and the crystal slowly floated into the air. The crystal flashed brightly and several circles floated underneath the crystal. Within the circles were the bodies of everyone that was to be reborn. The Queen could feel her life slipping away. The crescent moon wand slipped out of hand and hit the ground. Luna and Artemis were enclosed in capsules and joined the others. Queen Serenity's body faded away.
The Silver Millennium reverted back to its restored form. Princess Serenity collapsed to her knees in tears. She had seen this all before but it was still difficult to see again. She didn't need to relieve the first time she died.
Sailor Star Fighter stood still while processing everything. Why did she see this memory too? It was horrible. This palace had such a dark history. After she took a moment to collect her thoughts she walked over to the weeping princess.
Princess Serenity cried. It was a buildup of seeing this memory again. Her struggle between Mamoru and Seiya, keeping things from Seiya, dealing with the Dark Moon and her uncertainties. She felt arms wrap around her, as Sailor Star Fighter hugged her tightly from behind. Serenity forgot the Starlight was still there. Had Fighter seen everything? She focused on her breathing and tried to settle her nerves.
"I'm sorry you had to experience that…" Sailor Star Fighter whispered near Princess Serenity's ear.
The Starlight's words rose more questions. Princess Serenity slowly positioned herself to face Sailor Star Fighter. "You… you saw all of that?" She asked. She needed confirmation.
"…Yes," Sailor Star Fighter responded slowly. There was sadness in her eyes as she looked into the eyes of the Princess. She carefully wiped away a few of her tears. "It must be difficult to have so many memories." She hugged her tightly again. "You're really strong, Odango."
Princess Serenity winced slightly as she thought about the information she withheld. She had to tell Seiya soon. But not right now. She had a different question to ask. "How… how do you live in a place with such difficult memories? How did you handle being in the Scarlett Palace after it was rebuilt?"
Sailor Star Fighter ended the embraced to be able to look at Princess Serenity. "It was really difficult at first. I would see images of the past. But then I would remember all of the happy times I had inside the palace as well. The way I see it there will always be some sad memories, but the happier ones will always outweigh the bad ones. Instead of focusing on the past, I decided to focus on making new memories in the palace that would be happy," explained Sailor Star Fighter. She was quiet for a moment before she added, "I want to do anything I can do in order to help you have happy memories in the palace again."
Princess Serenity smiled warmly at the Starlight. Fighter's words encouraged her. She knew her words were correct. She leaned forward and hugged Sailor Star Fighter for a moment. She broke the contact and began to stand up. "I think it is time I restore this room." The air around her right hand flickers as her Cosmos staff appears. She didn't say a word as the crystal began to glow. Her eyes were shut, her face demonstrated the deep concentration needed for the task.
The entire room glowed around the duo. As the light faded, it was filled with banners, decorations, and a finely polished floor. It was identical to how it appeared in her recent memory.
Sailor Star Fighter gasped at the splendor of the room. It looked even better than she had seen during Princess Serenity's and Prince Endymion's dance together. "It's perfect…" she said in awe.
Princess Serenity spun around the room admiring her work, but she still felt uneasy. She needed to talk to Fighter about her previous visit here with Endymion. If she stayed her much longer, she knew it would happen. She tried to push the guilt she felt to the side. Her staff flashed once and her dress was replaced with her sailor fuku. "We should return to Earth. I'm sure the others are worried."
Sailor Star Fighter nodded her head confused by Sailor Cosmos' sudden change, but didn't question it.
Seiya and Usagi stood outside the shinto shrine. Usagi felt herself relax now that she was no longer at the Silver Millennium. Some of her anxiety lessened. It was very difficult for her to spend time there due to recent events.
Seiya turned to walk inside and was stopped by Usagi. Usagi tugged at the hem of his shirt. Surprised, he turned his full attention on her.
"Thank you for helping me return to the Silver Millennium," Usagi said with the brightest smile she could muster.
Seiya returned the smile and said, "You know I will do whatever I can to help you, Odango." He placed his hands on her arm as a sign of reassurance.
Usagi didn't verbally respond, she looked up at Seiya and smiled at him.
Seiya learned forward to kiss Usagi. Usagi stood up on the tips of her feet to meet him halfway. While she enjoyed the kiss, she couldn't help but feel guilty. Once the kiss ended, Usagi looked up at him and said, "I think we should head in side… I have a lot to tell the others."
The girls and the two Lights were relieved to see Seiya and Usagi return. Taiki and Yaten hung around to wait for Seiya since they knew he would return to the shrine with Usagi. They needed to discuss what happened and the fact that it the gas that was used on Usagi seemed to have the same chemical components as their home planet. How did they know that would be a weakness against Usagi?
Usagi reassured everyone she was fine several times. "I went to the prayer room… and while I was there… I saw my mother."
The girls gasped while Taiki and Yaten appeared confused.
"It was more so a projection…" Usagi clarified for Taiki and Yaten. "Her spirit remains there. She was… sad to learn that her prediction was correct about me being Sailor Cosmos." Usagi hesitated for a moment. She wasn't sure if the others were aware of what she was about to disclose. "When I… healed Fighter… a gold crescent moon mark appeared on her brooch. My mother explained what it meant to us."
Minako inched closer to Usagi as she waited for the revelation. Ami sat quietly and her eyes were downcast. Rei bit her lower lip slightly. Makoto seemed indifferent. Taiki and Yaten had a poker face and were unreadable.
"The mark is given to those senshi that will serve the Royal Court of the Silver Millennium before the next Queen ascends the throne," Usagi explained in a rush.
No one spoke as they processed all of the information they learned.
Taiki spoke first, "What does this mean? Seiya serves Kinmoku."
"Well… it means that for the first time ever, someone from another star system was accepted in to the court. I don't understand the process myself, but according to my mother, it also means I will become Queen soon," Usagi tried her best to explain it to the others.
Minako frowned as a realization hit her. "Seiya-kun is the only one with a mark…" She didn't need to finish her statement for the others to understand what she alluded. The other girls have fought alongside Usagi for years, but were never given a mark. It was a slap in the face.
"There is still plenty of time and I am sure all of you will receive marks," Usagi said in her most reassuring tone. "I'm not even sure how the marks are given out…" Her eyes were downcast. She tried to reassure her friends, but she struggled without knowing all of the answers.
Makoto eye's widened slightly, "I wouldn't tell Haruka-san this information." The girls nodded their heads in agreement. She turned to face Seiya in a serious tone, "She might try to kill you."
Taiki and Yaten slowly nodded their heads in agreement. "It would probably be best to learn more about it before the others know." Taiki said.
While everyone continued to talk, Usagi struggled with the guilt she felt. She couldn't shake the feeling since her return from the Silver Millennium with Seiya. She tried to focus on the conversation at hand, but it was too difficult. Her mind constantly drifted back to Endymion.
Usagi was remarkably quiet on the walk home. Seiya tried his best to make small talk but it wasn't working. He knew something was bothering her and she was keeping it to herself again.
Usagi knew she couldn't hold it in anymore. She had to tell him, regardless of how events would play out. They were in a relationship together and he should know the truth. No matter how difficult it will be for her to tell him or how painful it will be for him to hear it. She would have to deal with the aftermath.
Her heart raced. They stood near the entrance to her home. She opened her mouth to speak, but sound alluded her.
"Odango," Seiya said, as he eyed her closely. "What's wrong? You've been really quiet and I know something is bothering you."
Usagi winced slightly at his words. She didn't hide her emotions as well as she believed. She took a deep breath. It didn't calm her. Nothing could soothe her at that moment. "There is something I need to tell you…" Usagi's voice became softer. "It isn't something you're going to like."
Her word choice alarmed Seiya. He began to feel uneasy, a sense of dread greeted him while he waited for her to continue. Panic took hold.
Usagi forced herself to look at him with great difficulty. "I didn't tell you the entire story when I was at the Silver Millennium the other day…" She wanted to stop and not tell him anything else, but she had already said too much. She had to continue. "Endymion… kissed me." There. She said it.
Seiya sighed in frustration. He expected Mamoru to try something like that, just not when Usagi was so vulnerable after learning about the Black Moon. The back of his neck began to feel warm. He needed to keep his anger in check. "You should have told me sooner." Seiya said curtly. He frowned a little at the tone he used toward Usagi, it was difficult for him to hold back.
"I'm sorry," Usagi apologized. "It's just…. I was afraid of how you would react since you nearly fought the other day…" She tried to make excuses for her actions. It was the truth, even though the reason sounded silly to her now. "The two of you have been having problems…" she didn't want to say Mamoru's name. It would only anger Seiya more.
Seiya stood silently in disbelief with his eyes closed. He couldn't look at Usagi for the moment; she had kept something so significant from him. He knew there was another question which needed to be asked. He shuddered at the response he might receive. He opened his eyes to allow him to study her response, "Did you kiss him back?"
Usagi had not anticipated such a forward question. She didn't know how to respond and the longer she stood in silence the clearer the answer would be. "…I… it was…. Yes." She finally stammered realizing it was impossible to discuss the matter in a positive light with him.
The color drained from Seiya's face. He quickly turned around and showed his back to her. He was livid. Where the past couple of days an act? She kissed another man, yet was so warm and caring when she was with him. Did he play the role of the fool? Had this all been a fantasy that could never last? "I'll talk to you tomorrow, Odango." He began to walk away from her.
Usagi knew he would be upset, but he was walking away from here without discussing it. "Seiya… wait…" She pleaded with him. She couldn't end things like this.
Seiya paused when he heard her voice cry out to him. It sounded like she was in pain but he did not turn around. "I can't deal with this right now." His tone was no longer full of anger but hopelessness. He quickened his pace and was out of her sight. Once he turned the corner down the street, he glanced over his shoulder to make sure he was alone. A part of him want to run to Mamoru's apartment and beat him up, but he knew it would only make things worse. The other part of him felt grief.
This is what Taiki and Yaten had warned him about, but he was too stubborn to listen to them. A part of him knew this would happen, yet he chose to brush those thoughts to the side every time. He could never doubt her and the affection she had for him. But he did not have the same history with her as she had with Mamoru.
Where should he go? He needed to collect his thoughts before he returned to the apartment. He couldn't talk to Taiki or Yaten about this. They were just given orders to remain on Earth because of his relationship with Usagi. Maybe it was better for him to return to Kinmoku. He shook his head at the idea. He didn't want to deal with Shiori again. He needed to think everything over and talk to Usagi tomorrow on how they would proceed.
Usagi wanted to run after him and apologize a million times, but he made it clear to her he wanted to be left alone. Taiki's words came to mind and his warning to not break Seiya's heart. Crestfallen, she turned toward her house. There was nothing she could do tonight. Another wave of guilt washed over her. Had she just broken his heart? For the second time? Was the chance they had and the future she had seen ruined?
Usagi entered her house, her face full of unshed tears.
Ikkuko was on the telephone, "Oh she just walked in… hold on." Ikkuko loudly called to her daughter, "Telephone call!"
"Not right now…" Usagi said in dejected tone. She knew it wouldn't be Seiya and she didn't want to talk whoever it was.
"Usagi, what's wrong? Was that Seiya-kun just leaving? He didn't stop by?" Her questions were answered by the sound of a door closing. Ikkuko sigh and returned her attention back to the telephone call. "I'm sorry…I guess she isn't taking any telephone calls. I can take a message?" The other person told her it wouldn't be necessary and would try another time. The conversation ended. Ikkuko placed the telephone back on the receiver and shrugged her shoulders.
Mamoru placed the receiver back and thought about what he overheard on the telephone. Usagi was upset and she was just with Seiya. He didn't want her to be upset, but any issues between her and Seiya would be a good thing for him.
Phew! A lot is going to happen in the next chapter which is why it will be the longest one yet! Usagi's premonition with Mamoru is going to be revealed, Seiya and Mamoru "talk", Usagi receives training on some of her abilities, the Moon Senshi return and a battle with the Dark Moon clan. Act 32: The Second Mark
Thank you Kikis87 for all the feedback on this story!