SAILOR JOURNEYS: SECRETS OF AN UNKNOWN PAST.
Chapter 21: The Atlantis Mission. To mend a broken heart.
Yohann just remained on his place, completely shocked and confused. Robin continued talking, her voice cracking a little.
"You can forget completely about us. I don't want to see you ever again!"
In that moment, Usagi approached her friends, and standing next to Robin, she said. "You can't be serious! Robin, are you all right?"
"No, I'm not right..." said Robin, gasping for a moment. "But I have to do this." She then turned around and, without looking back, she added. "Now, if you excuse me, I have to return to my room." With that, she headed back to her room with all the dignity she could muster from the situation.
As soon as Robin turned the corner, the Guardian approached Yohann. The later hadn't moved an inch, his hand still on his cheek. "Sir... are you alright?"
Yohann didn't say a word. Instead, he turned around, almost bumping with a pair of orderlies that had been looking for him. Wordlessly, he passed them and walked towards the elevators.
With the moment passed, the hospital staff returned to their normal occupations, with the exception of Usagi, Mamoru and the Guardian. The first one to break the silence was the Guardian. "Can someone please explain to me what happened?"
At his questioning, Usagi and Mamoru looked at each other, worry etched on their faces. Finally, Mamoru addressed the Guardian. "Just the beginning of a new set of problems, Hogosuro. A big deal of them..."
* * * *
The next day, Robin had been released from the hospital by authorization of Dr. Mizuno. Yohann, however, had to remain for two more days. He spent those days receiving the visit of all the other members of the team, all the while the Guardian kept watch on his door.
The last day, Technuma checked on Yohann's medical chart and, after making a couple of notations on it, he said. "Well, I have to admit it. You recovered really fast. If the last lab tests come clean, you'll be back home by the end of the day."
"Thank goodness." Muttered Yohann.
Technuma decided to let that comment pass, and instead he focussed on something else. "Tell me Lieutenant. What are you going to do now?"
"I intend to return to my base, repair what I can there... and finish what I came here to do, I guess." Answered Yohann. "Why?"
Technuma raised an eyebrow, and continued. "That's very commendable of you, Lieutenant. But that's not what I asked." Seeing that Yohann didn't have a clue, he added. "I mean, in respect of my daughter. What are you going to do now?"
"I don't know, sir." Sighed Yohann. "She doesn't want to see me anymore... and frankly, I don't blame her. I was so... rotten with her."
"You did what you thought was right at the moment, Lieutenant. Granted, you went overboard with the things you told her, but you did it with her best interests in mind."
"I don't believe that anymore, sir. I... I think I did all that because I'm an egotistical, manipulative and egomaniac bastard." Said Yohann, looking away from Technuma.
"Do you really believe that of yourself?" queried Technuma.
"I don't know anymore, sir... at least, that's what Robin thinks of me now..."
"I don't think so." Countered Technuma. "You see, you are her first loved one outside me and the girls. Now, this is also her first emotional disappointment. And for that, I'm as guilty as you." Seeing that Yohann was listening at his words now, he continued. "All this could have been avoided if I hadn't pressed you to leave her. I guess I was... jealous of you."
"Jealous, sir?"
"Yes, jealous. Jealous of how you won her heart so easily. Jealous of how happy you were together. And jealous of you in general." Finished Technuma.
"Sir, I... am sorry, sir."
"Don't apologize for something that's not your fault, Lieutenant. That's in the past now." Both men remained silent for a couple of minutes, after those Technuma asked again. "So... any plans for her now?"
"Are you sure you still want me in your family, sir?" asked Yohann.
"Let me put it this way, Lieutenant... she could've done worse."
"Touché."
"Well, Lieutenant? What's your answer? Are you up to the challenge?" asked Technuma. Seeing that Yohann was still hesitant, he decided to add a little more weight. "I happen to recall something a person once told me, and I quote... 'I won't allow nothing or no one... not even YOU... to stay between us.'
"Sounds familiar?"
"Yes..." murmured Yohann. "I remember clearly now. I didn't fulfill that promise, right?"
"Looks like it, but there's still time to rescue something from the situation." Said Technuma. Adopting a serious expression, he asked. "So... are you up to the challenge?"
Yohann's only answer was a smile and a nod.
* * * *
Three days later...
Usagi and Robin were having their lunch in the school cafeteria. By general agreement, all the girls had accepted to continue helping Yohann with the last two bases that needed to be closed, but there still were lots of work to do in respects of repairing the base. Also, using the minerals and precious metals obtained with the desalinization plant at the base, Yohann and co. got enough money to do a complete overhaul of the house. The repairs in that respect were already done, with the help of the construction bots. With the help of Setsuna, Sonya had made sure to buy some specialized equipment using false names in order to prevent Cauldron to trace such equipment back to them. Also, with the exception of the specialized equipment made of the Agency's technology, most of the base had been refurbished and rearmed.
"Robin, you should eat... you're losing a lot of weight lately." Said Usagi.
"I'm not that hungry... besides, I need to lose some extra pounds I gained recently." Answered Robin.
Usagi looked at her friend worriedly. During the last days, she had lost that spark, that spunk that characterized them. She still went to the training sessions, but it was obvious that her heart wasn't in them. In general, she spent lot of time feeling miserable. Something Usagi and the rest didn't like one bit.
At that moment, Usagi was wondering what to do to help her friend, but so far, nothing had work. Robin didn't admit it, but she still missed Yohann. The rest of the gang tried to distract Robin from her heartbreak, but they stumbled with complete failure time and time again.
"Robin... what do you say if we go to visit the mall after school?" tried Usagi one more time. And one more time, she received the same answer.
"Thanks... but I'm not in the mood."
Usagi repressed the urge to groan at her friend, but refrained herself at the last second. She was trying to figure out what else to say when they were interrupted.
A messenger approached them in that instant, and after checking something with a group of people next to the door, he headed in their direction. Once there, he addressed them. "Excuse me, do you know a certain..." he checked a notepad he was carrying with him. "... Miss Robin Redwing?"
Usagi and Robin looked at each other, puzzled. In unison, both shrugged, and Robin answered. "I'm Robin Redwing."
"Good!" said the stranger. "For a moment, I thought we couldn't make it on time." Turning on a walkie-talkie, he said. "We did it guys. Bring it in!"
Before anyone could say a word, a group of five waiters entered the cafeteria, three of them carrying trolleys covered with linen cloths and silverware services, along with a violinist. In a moment, they cleared the table of the two surprised teenagers, and began to place silver service in front of them.
After the initial shock passed, Usagi was the first one to talk. "What is the meaning of this!?!?"
The headwaiter (Or at least that's what he said he was) answered. "Doing our job, miss. We were hired to serve lunch to Miss Redwing here, full service."
"But... who's paying for this??" asked Robin, still slightly in shock.
The headwaiter handed Robin a single red rose with a card. "I have strict instructions to give you this when you make that question, milady."
Robin took the card from the rose, and read it. Her eyes opened incredulously when she read the short message.
Usagi couldn't contain her curiosity any longer, and taking the card from Robin's numb fingers, she read it herself. Her eyes misted a little and smiled slightly when she read it. Printed on the card, were only five words:
I'm sorry. Please forgive me. signed, Y.S.
"Isn't he sweet, Robin? I think you should give him a chance." Gushed Usagi. "I mean, not everyone does something like this for anyone, don't you agree?" when she didn't get an answer, she looked at her friend. "Robin? Robin, are you there? Hello? Earth to Robin, come in..."
Usagi would have continued trying to get Robin out of her shock, but when the first dishes were served, she told to herself. "well, it will be a real shame to let all this food go to waste, don't you think?"
And with those words, their lunch started, among the looks of the student body. During the whole lunch, Robin just stared at the food, still in shock.
After school, Usagi and Robin had to wade among a veritably sized group of curious friends, all of them eager to learn all about the mysterious 'Y.S.' that paid for such entertainment during lunch. Doing a fine job that any politician would envy with a 'non-answer' series of answers, they finally got out of the mob and headed to their homes.
"I can't believe he did that!" said Robin, fuming. "That was so embarrassing!"
"I don't know." Said Usagi. "Those crepe suzettes were delicious!"
"You know what I mean..." muttered Robin.
In that instant Laurella, Minako, Ami and Makoto joined them, and the group of friends began to talk about their last classes. Usagi couldn't stop herself to talk about the lunch incident. As expected, the reactions were unanimous.
"that's so sweet!" said Laurella.
"Not to mention romantic." Added Minako.
"what surprises me is that the school board allowed such spectacle to happen." Said Ami.
"I was as surprised in that respect as you are, believe me." Said Robin. "But they had permission. How he got it, I don't know...but he did it."
"Well, at least he's persistent. We have to handle him that." Said Makoto, the rest nodding in agreement. She then addressed Robin directly. "So... what are you going to do?"
"Do? What do you think I'm going to do? He can't expect for me to jump to his arms with such a pathetic attempt!" retorted Robin, fuming. "I'm not going back with him, and that's final!"
"You know? That didn't sound as strong as she intended..." commented Laurella.
"I think so." Said Usagi.
"Same here." Added Makoto.
"Ami, what are the odds that Robin will forgive him?" asked Minako.
"Very good, actually." Said Ami, smiling.
"Ami, how could you!?!?" said Robin, scandalized.
The rest of her friends just laughed hard at her reaction, and decided to cut her a slack. The rest of the walk proceeded with a certain semblance of tranquility. That is, until they reached the corner where they were going to go their own ways.
"Well, guys. See you tomorrow, ok?" said Robin, getting ready to get to Setsuna's place.
"Sure! Keep in touch, ok?" said Usagi.
The rest were going to get on their way, when Minako noticed it first. "Hey, isn't that a delivery truck in front of your place, Robin?" she pointed. Everybody turned immediately in such direction.
Effectively, in front of Setsuna's mansion was parked the delivery truck of a well-known flower shop.
The whole group just stayed there, looking at the truck, until the sound of Robin's schoolbag hitting the floor distracted them. As one, the girls looked at their friend. Robin was looking at the vehicle with a look of dismay no one had ever seen on her.
"He didn't..." she murmured, and ran immediately in direction of her place. The rest were hot on her heels, after Makoto retrieved the discarded schoolbag. They arrived at the same instant the truck was leaving the entrance.
Before anyone could say a thing, the front door opened, and Haruka, Michiru and Setsuna appeared, all of them with a stern look on their faces. Haruka was the first one to talk.
"Robin," she started, "You have to do something about this."
"The situation has to be handled as soon as possible. It could have serious consequences if left unattended." Continued Setsuna.
"Not to mention that we have limited space to live here." Finished Michiru.
"What are you talking about??" asked Robin.
The trio of older women just stepped aside from the entrance. Robin felt a sense of dread about getting inside, but after taking a deep breath, she entered the house. There was a moment of silence before it was broken by a very loud "HOW COULD HE??" That prompted the rest of the group to enter before her. Nobody said a word at the sight that presented in front of them.
On every free bit of space available, there were floral arrangements of every size and form available. There was hardly space to walk around.
"I can't believe it..." muttered Usagi.
"The last shipment arrived just a few minutes ago." Said Haruka. "there's no more place to put anything else around here!"
"Last... shipment?" asked Robin, dumbfounded.
"We've been receiving all kind of things all day long, young lady." Said Setsuna. "and the delivery man said that there is more on the way."
"You should go and check your room. This is nothing!" said Michiru.
Robin didn't wait to hear anything else, and sprinted in direction of the stairs, her friends right behind her. The climb was slightly difficult, due to the small flowerpots that were on each step. The second floor looked more like a greenhouse than anything else, the scent of the flowers permeating each and every corner of the place. Robin looked at the closed door of her room, not daring to open it.
Looking that Robin wasn't going to move anytime soon, Minako decided to take action on her hands, and opened the door. The whole house rocked on its foundations with the group's jaws hitting the floor at the same time (figuratively, of course.) Nobody said a word when they entered the room slowly, trying to assimilate the sight in front of them.
Michiru was right. If there was hardly any space to move around in the house, Robin's room was a place where no movement was possible. Stuffed to the roof were an immense quantity of boxes, flower arrangements and stuffed animals. In front of the imposing wall of presents was a toy bear the size of Robin, with sad eyes. Secured on its paws, was a big card with these words.
Please, would you forgive me? Y.S.
There was another awkward moment of silence, until Makoto broke it. "You were saying something about a 'pathetic attempt' before, Robin?"
"He's really trying hard." Commented Laurella.
Nobody paid attention to the doorbell, but Robin shuddered at the sound of it.
"Hey, look at this!" said Usagi. "There has to be at least forty chocolate and candy boxes, and just on this corner!" With that as a signal, the rest began to look around the boxes, taking care of not toppling them on top of them.
"Oh my God!" said Minako. "And look at this! Oscar de la Renta... Pierre Cardin... Gucci... And those are the brands that are visible just here!"
"That's nothing!" said Laurella. "This whole pile... comes from Tiffany's!"
"Incredible..." murmured Ami. "there's an iMac here! With a whole set of programs of all kinds available for it!"
In that moment, Haruka appeared at the doorframe. "Robin... you have to come here. There's another present here for you."
"Another one?" asked Robin, still trying to regain her bearings.
Sighing exasperatedly, Haruka grabbed Robin's hand and literally dragged her to the front door. The rest followed them, curious. When they arrived, they couldn't believe what they were seeing.
Right at the entrance, was a metallic blue Pontiac convertible, with a huge red ribbon on the hood. Setsuna and Michiru were looking at a card on the steering wheel. Trembling, Robin took the card and opened it. As she expected, there were the same words than in all the other cards she had read the whole day.
Please, would you forgive me? Y.S.
"This... is a major overkill." Said Makoto.
"You could say that again." Said Ami.
"All right, that's it!" said Robin. "Where is my schoolbag?"
"I... left it in your room." Said Makoto.
"Thanks." Without waiting another moment, Robin entered the mansion, leaving the rest to check the car.
"You know?" said Michiru, taking Haruka's hand on hers. "This reminds me of our first fight."
Haruka smiled at Michiru. "I wasn't this bad, was I?"
"No. You were worse."
Everybody turned around in time to see Robin leaving the house, cellular phone in hand. "Yes, you heard me right. I need two big trucks before sunset. And make sure to bring lots of people. I want certain things to be moved before eight o'clock. Yes, charge it to my credit card, you already have the number. Yes, I'll be waiting. Thank you!"
"Robin... what was that all about?" inquired Usagi.
"I'm sending all this back his way." Said Robin. "If he thinks he's going to buy my affection with these... these... trinkets, he's grossly mistaken!" addressing Setsuna, she added. "If you need me, I'll be on the living room, trying to take a nap. I have a headache" She then returned to the house, all the time muttering things better left unsaid.
Nobody said a thing for a couple of minutes, until Setsuna broke the silence this time. "Well, she took this better than I expected."
* * * *
It was quarter to eight when the last of the presents were securely loaded on one of the moving trucks and sent on their way to the base. Sighing in relief, Robin closed the door and headed towards her room, while the rest of the Outer Senshi headed to their own rooms. Around ten, Setsuna left her room, transformed into Sailor Pluto, and opened a portal to head towards the Gate.
She wasn't surprised to see the Commander guarding the place. "Good evening, Galos."
"Good evening, Setsuna." Said the Commander, nodding her way. "I hope Yohann didn't cause too many inconveniences."
"Let's just say, that this experience was... interesting." Answered Setsuna. "So... anything new while I was on the timestream?"
"Not much. Just the same things we foresaw before." Said the Commander. Turning around to see her straight, he added. "Although, I think it's fair to warn you..."
"You know the Rules of Time, Commander." Interrupted Setsuna. "Don't tell me a thing unless it's vital to preserve the timeline."
"I'm perfectly aware of the Rules, Setsuna. But I think that you should know..."
"If it's not important, then don't say a thing, and I mean it." Interrupted Setsuna again. "Now, if you don't mind, I want to check the timeline myself."
"Suit yourself." Said the Commander, stepping aside to allow Setsuna to start. "But don't say later that I didn't try to warn you."
"I'll keep that in mind, thank you." With that, Setsuna began to check the timeline, all the while the Commander kept looking at her, an amused look on his face. An undetermined time later, she finished. "We'll have to make a couple of corrections here and there, but everything looks fine."
"It's always a pleasure to see a professional at work..." murmured the Commander, looking intently at her.
"Excuse me? You said something?" asked Setsuna.
"No, nothing. Don't worry, it wasn't really important." Said the Commander, but he kept looking at her. When she finally noticed it, she decided to ask.
"Is there anything you want to tell me that I don't know?"
The Commander smiled broadly, and took a small box from one of the pockets on his cape. "Just a couple of things, Setsuna. This is for you."
Setsuna sighed, having had her quota of receiving presents for the next century, but still she accepted the box. Opening it, she saw an orquid corsage inside.
"I was wondering..." started the Commander, "if you would mind... joining me for dinner this Sunday evening... that is... if you... well... I... you see..."
"Galos... you're babbling." Interrupted Setsuna.
"Aaah... yes, you're right." Finally said the Commander, looking sheepishly at his feet. Clearing his throat, he tried again. "The point is... do you accept?"
Setsuna raised an eyebrow, looking at him. She felt flattered, but was cautious not to show it. Finally, she decided. "It would be a pleasure, Galos."
The Commander let out the breath he didn't know he was holding, smiling at her. "Excellent. At your place, eight o'clock?"
"You're not planning to take me around the centuries again, are you?"
"I could if you want to." Said the Commander, smirking at the thought, all the while he started to plan in that direction.
"I pass for now, thank you." Said Setsuna. "I prefer a quiet, normal dinner. If you don't mind."
"Consider it done." As an afterthought, the Commander added. "Why don't you go to sleep now? You had a rough day. I can keep watching here."
"Don't mind if I do." Said Setsuna, smiling slightly his way. "And you're right, this was a really tiresome day."
"Good night, Setsuna. And sweet dreams."
"Thank you, Galos. See you this weekend." Said Setsuna, after which she crossed the Gate back to her mansion.
The Commander shook his head slightly, sighing. "You should have listened to me, Setsuna. I'm afraid these are our last moments together... and I plan to take advantage of each second of them."
His words turned out to be proven by the weekend.
* * * *
Hikawa Temple, afternoon.
Rei and Sonya were together having a nice cup of tea and cookies, the first after a tough day at school, the second after an exhausting day at the base. They were happy to have a moment of solace and tranquility between them.
"He did it again, eh?" asked Rei.
"Yes." Sighed Sonya. "I don't know what he's trying to accomplish. I mean, Robin has left perfectly clear that he can't get to her with material presents. But he keeps going on."
"You have to remember that men can be pretty dense." Said Rei. "Normally, they don't get a clue, even if we hit them in the head with it... repeatedly."
"That's so true..." Said Sonya. "Hey, do you know that Hogosuro is going to take cooking classes?"
"Cooking classes?" inquired Rei. "Him? I never thought he had it on him."
"Believe it, he has it. You should see what he bought for himself... an apron that says 'kiss the cook'!"
Rei had the mental picture of such a muscle-bound mountain with an apron and a spoon on his hand, and couldn't contain herself from laughing out loud, Sonya joining her as well. It took them a few minutes to get back to their senses, but once in a while they giggled at the memory.
"So..." started Sonya after they had some semblance of control, "how are you doing?"
"Fine..." commented Rei, looking slightly crestfallen. "Now that I'm entering my fifth month, Dr. Mizuno says that I should stop going with you for the rest of the attacks."
"And I agree completely with her." Said Sonya. "Remember that you have to think of your new family now as well as the others."
"I know, I know... but that still doesn't mean I have to like it."
"The burden we all female warriors have to face one time or another." Sighed Sonya.
In that moment, the door opened, allowing a very furious Robin to enter the room.
Rei blinked a couple of times, not accustomed to see her friend in such state, but regained her bearings almost immediately. "Robin... hi. What can I do for you?"
"Nothing, thank you... well, unless you can create an anti-Yohann ofuda." Said Robin, kneeling next to Sonya.
"What did the Lieutenant do this time?" asked Sonya, sounding tired.
"The nerve..." began Robin, gritting her teeth. "This time, he had the audacity to make a little donation for the scholarship program of the school."
"And how... little... was his donation?" asked Sonya.
When Robin mentionned the quantity, Rei's jaw hit the floor, while Sonya just covered her face with her hands. "And that wasn't the worse part!" finished Robin.
"I'm afraid to ask..." Said Rei. "And what was it, then?"
Robin fumed at the memory, but answered nevertheless. "That now, every girl in the school want ME to give THEM his phone number!"
Nobody said a thing for a minute, too stunned to say a thing. Finally, Sonya broke the silence. "But... how did they know that you and the Lieutenant are no longer an item?"
Robin only stared at Sonya, her looks serious. Rei answered for her. "Let me guess... our fearless leader did it again..."
"That's right." Said Robin, sighing. "But it wasn't her fault. Apparently, one of the girls heard us commenting how I didn't want to get back with him, and... well, you know how are the rumor mills at schools."
"I can imagine." Said Rei, sighing as well. "So, what are you going to do now?"
"That's the point. I don't know." Said Robin. "Any advice you can give me?"
Sonya and Rei looked at each other, not exchanging a word. In unison, they nodded, and turning to look at Robin, they smiled at her. Robin squirmed at the sight, suddenly unsure.
"It looks to me," started Sonya, "that, in order to stop all this, you have to talk with the Lieutenant."
"Mind us," continued Rei, "we're not saying that you have to get back with him. Just discuss things, and reach an agreement."
"At the very least, you can stop him from making a fool of himself, and embarrassing you in the process." Finished Sonya.
"Well... I don't know..." said Robin.
"The more time you take, more presents will come your way." Said Rei, smiling mischievously.
"Good point." Said Robin, shuddering at the memory of the last days. "When do you think will be a good time?"
"The sooner, the better." Said Rei.
"But unfortunately," added Sonya, "it seems that you'll have to wait for a better moment." At Robin and Rei's inquiring gazes, she explained. "Before coming here, the last shipment of equipment we needed arrived. The base will be ready in a matter of hours, and we'll be ready to move on to the next objective."
"I didn't know..." muttered Robin.
"That's because you were playing hard-to-forgive and you weren't paying attention of the latest developments." Quipped Rei, unable to contain herself.
"That's what I came here to say to Rei. That tomorrow there's a briefing scheduled after you all get out of school." Finished Sonya.
"At least, that might give us some breathing space until we return." Said Robin.
"What do you mean by that?" asked Rei.
"I don't think Haruka, Michiru and Setsuna would stand another day of seeing their house stuffed to the gills with floral arrangements." answered Robin. " You know? There's been a slight compensation to all of this... it's really a sight to see Setsuna almost losing her temper each time the doorbell rings."
"Don't say..." said Sonya, suddenly interested in the way the conversation was heading.
"Yeah." Quipped Robin. "She commented yesterday that she was seriously considering to, and I quote, 'to rip that device from hell to shreds and send it to the end of time'."
"Woah!" breathed Rei.
The rest of the afternoon, the three friends continued discussing what had been going on, and the reactions of the others to such events.
* * * *
The next day...
All of the senshi were gathered around the main table at the War Room. Upon arrival, the first thing they noticed was that the repairs were done; or at least, all that could have been done with the available resources.
"Before we start," commenced Yohann, standing up, "I want to deeply apologize to all of you. My past conduct has been completely inexcusable. I acted thinking that I was protecting you, and instead put all of you in great danger. I don't really deserve your help, and even more... your friendship. I have completely dishonored myself with my actions, and if you don't want to assist me, I'll understand." He then bowed deeply, and remained in that position.
Nobody said a word for a few moments, until Sailor Moon started to speak. "Yohann... personally, I understand why you did all what you did. You thought you were doing the right thing, but you take the wrong way somewhere down the line. The important thing to remember here... is that you truly understand the consequences of your acts, and are ready to make amends for that." She looked around slowly, stopping to look at each one of the people in the place for just a second. Once she finished, she continued. "I can't speak for everybody, but personally... I want to continue helping you, Yohann."
The next one to speak was Endymion. "Yohann... I know exactly why you did that, believe me. And I also understand how you must feel because of that. You need someone that can understand and trust you, and if you allow me, I want to help you too. People like us... have to be together, don't you think?"
"Yohann... you thought you were protecting us, and that speaks well of you." Said Sailor Venus. "Your only mistake was not trusting us to be with you. But right now, you are back to your old self... and that's precisely the guy I want to help."
"You trusted your knowledge more than your own heart, Yohann," said Sailor Mercury. "I used to believe the same thing in the past. Fortunately, I have good friends now that helped me to see that feelings are also important. And I can see that you learned the same lesson by yourself. If you allow me, I want to help you too."
"You were blinded by your own need to accomplish your duty, complicated by your necessity to protect the ones that you care for" said Sailor Jendra. "You were willing to pay the ultimate price for that thought... and almost did it. But you saw in time that you don't have to be alone on this quest. As Mamoru said, we have to be together."
"I'm still not happy for you leaving us behind." Said Sailor Jupiter. "But in a way, I have to thank you too for that. You let me and Jendra to prove our worth against a sneak attack, and in the process, we were able to gain our Soul Power. I don't know how much longer would have taken us to achieve it without that attack, but fortunately, everything worked out fine. Also..." she then looked slightly in the Guardian's direction, "I realized that there is something else for me down the line. Count me in."
Each and every one of the presents gave their own opinions, but in the end, they all agreed to help him till the end. Alex had been a little more vocal in her opinion, but she forgave Yohann for what he had done, and expressed her happiness for her 'Pork Chops' being back to his old self. The general atmosphere was bright and full of hope. That is, until it was Sailor Saturn's turn.
"I'm not sure if I can forgive you for what you did, Yohann. Or for what you've done for the last days. But one thing is for sure: I have a sworn duty to my prince and princess, and that is to protect them. If they want to offer their help, by extension I am going to help you too. Just make one thing clear: this is only purely professional, nothing more, nothing else."
Yohann stood up, looking at Saturn sadly, but he managed to smile wanly. "I understand, Saturn. I'll keep that in mind." It took all his will strength to look away from her, but he finally did it. He then addressed the others. "Thank you, all of you. You don't know how much your support and friendship means to me."
"The same goes for us, Yohann. Believe me." Said Sailor Moon, smiling brightly. "So... what's next, Yohann?"
"I'll let Alex explain that to you. Alex?"
"Thank you, sweetbuns!" Linking with the War Room's computer, Alex displayed a world map, this time the mark of their next destination blinking in one zone of the Atlantic Ocean. "You were right, Mercury. My sweetie really HAD a copy of Cauldron's log in the armor's memory banks. So, according to this data, the next base to close is located here." The image then enlarged to show the exact position of the base's remains. "And guess what, Endymion? It's located in your old neighborhood!"
Endymion looked intently at the projection, thinking hard of Alex's words. Finally, it dawned on him. "Alex... you don't mean..."
"That's right! The location of this base is none other than in what was known as Atlantis!" finished the Artificial Intelligence.
"Atlantis... the ancient kingdom of Earth..." muttered Endymion, deep in his thoughts.
"It's not going to be that easy." Pointed our Sailor Mercury. "We all have to remember that, after Beryl's attack, and later the counterstrike made by Queen Serenity, the whole continent went under the waves."
"And that means, that the actual location of the base is underwater." Finished Alex. "That's why Mercury and I designed a whole new set of submarine breathing devices compatible with all of your armors..."
"Whoa, whoa, whoa! Time out!" interrupted Emerald Knight. "Are you telling us that we have to go to the bottom of the ocean this time?"
"I'm afraid so." Said Mercury. "But look at the bright side. Since it's been underwater all this time, it's highly improbable that something remains functioning on that place. It might very well be just a reckon mission."
There were murmurs of agreement around the table, each one thinking of what had been said. Once calm returned to the meeting, it was Sailor Mars the one that made the next question. "So, what is the exact location of this place?"
Alex and Mercury then proceeded to enlarge the area, until a very defined section was visible. To everybody's surprise, the designated area was located right in the Caribbean. "This is too rich to be a coincidence." Said Alex. "Because the place is right in the Bermudas!"
"Neat!" said Sailor Moon. "Do you think we could stop nearby to grab a suntan? It's been so cold lately!" at this comment, all the presents developed some very impressive sweatdrops.
"We'll... see about that." Said Yohann, recovering from the impression. "For now, let's concentrate in what we have to do, ok?"
"Just one question." Said Sailor Neptune. "I don't know if it's related to this or not, but isn't that region known also as the Bermuda Triangle?"
"Now that you mention it, that's right..." muttered Sonya. "If what I learned of that place is right, that area has been known for quite some time for strange disappearances and occurrences, correct?"
"Oh, nonsense!" interrupted Alex. "You can't believe that widow's tales, can you?? I mean, that zone is a heavy maritime traffic area! For each supposed disappearance, there are dozens of ships and planes that cross that place unharmed! No, those phenomena can be easily explained by meteorological occurrences, or human mistake."
"I agree with Alex." Said the Guardian. "Even for our line of work, to think that there's truly something strange in that place, is ridiculous."
"And what makes you say that?" inquired Sailor Jupiter.
"Tell me something... if there was something supernatural in that place, don't you think any of you would have noticed it by now?" finished the Guardian.
"Good point." Conceded Sailor Jupiter.
"Well, now that the place has been deemed secure by our resident experts," began to say Sailor Uranus, "and with Cauldron and MerLynn out of the picture, it's safe to assume that this outing is going to be a walk in the park?"
"I wouldn't say that exactly." Said Yohann. "But it's a good guess that it won't be as difficult as the previous ones. Nevertheless, we have to be prepared."
"So, what do we have to do now?" inquired Sailor Venus.
"Not much, really." Said the Guardian. "Unfortunately, we lost most of the simulation programs of the Gymnasium, so we can't practice for Deep Sea dives. Therefore, we all have to trust on our current equipment and abilities to pull this one out."
"The best we all can do, is practice swimming in the pool." Said Mercury. "Besides that, there's nothing else we can do."
"Somehow, I find this situation depressing." Commented Emerald Knight. "We are going to go to that place totally unprepared."
"It's not going to be that different from when we all started." Quipped Sailor Moon. "Come on! We can do it! We've always been victorious, and this time, we will prevail as well, in the name of love and friendship, we'll be triumphant!"
Everybody looked at her, incredulity easily seen on their faces. But the moment passed soon, to be replaced with their echoing voices. Yohann looked all around, feeling satisfied and happy in company of his friends. However, his feelings suddenly made a dive when he looked at Robin. He knew he had a lot of work to do if he wanted to repair the bridges of friendship and love that he so foolishly had destroyed.
* * * *
That Friday morning...
"I still don't like it." Muttered Rei. "I should be going with them!"
Rei, Sonya, the Tsukinos, Dr. Mizuno and Technuma were together in the Hangar, watching carefully the loading procedures the others were already finishing. For the last two days, all of the Senshi had been spending at least two hours swimming in the pool, in an attempt to improve their abilities. As expected, Ami and Michiru excelled in that field, the only one that could swim in par of them was Usako. It was still something weird for them to accept that Chibi-Usa had grown so much, from a little girl to a stunningly beautiful teenager. When Alex and the others learned about that, the first thing they did was to hack into Tokyo's computer systems and create a whole new identity for her, complete with papers to allow her to attend the same school Usagi and Robin were going.
"Sorry, but you know that at this stage, you shouldn't exert yourself, young lady." Said Akane. "Besides, since your element is fire, I don't think your powers would make too much good in an underwater environment."
"I'm afraid she's right, Rei." Said Technuma. "You could ignite your flames, but they wouldn't be able to travel too long before dissipating."
"And that kind of exertion is definitely not good for you under your conditions." Finished Ikuko. "You have to think of your children now."
"I know, I know... Don't remind me..."mumbled Rei, leaning against the wall. "But why Hogosuro has to go instead of you, Sonya? I don't get it."
"I asked them for it, dear." Said Sonya, smiling gently in Rei's direction. "Besides, I don't move that well underwater. I would be a hindrance in this mission."
"And Hogosuro is better than you? But he can't even float!" retorted Rei.
"Granted, but he has a great advantage above all of us." Countered Sonya. "He doesn't need to breathe, and can move faster underwater. Besides, do you really think he would have remained here knowing that Jupiter is going?"
"A very good point, indeed." Admitted Rei, not helping a mischievous smile appear on her face.
A few minutes later, everything was on board and all the ones that were going to be on that mission had started to board the Leviathan. In that moment, Yohann approached Saturn, not very sure of what he wanted to say, but nevertheless wanting to do anything.
"Robin... is everything ok?" 'Oh, boy... I can't be lamer than this!'
""Everything is perfectly fine, Lieutenant Starr." Answered Robin, her voice cold and methodical. "All the necessary material has been loaded, and the ship is in full operational order. All our equipment is functioning perfectly, and we are as ready as we can be. Is there anything else you want to ask?"
Yohann felt like his heart broke in very tiny pieces, each one piercing his chest. Lowering his gaze, he tried one more time. "Just... to make sure... that, if you want, you can be the copilot this time."
"That won't be necessary. As per our previous arrangement, and since I piloted the ship last time, Uranus is the one that will be copilot for this mission." Turning around, Robin added, without looking at him. "If there is nothing else, I suggest we board the ship. It's getting late."
Making an effort to swallow the lump that suddenly had grown on his throat, Yohann was only able to say weakly, "yes... board. Let's go." With secure steps, Robin entered the Leviathan, leaving him behind. Yohann felt suddenly weak and slightly ill, but still he headed towards the entrance.
The ones to remain at the base had observed the whole exchange, and were commenting among themselves.
"I almost feel sorry for him." Said Sonya, shaking her head.
"What I'm worried about, is if this is going to affect this mission. It's my friends the ones that could be at risk there!" said Rei.
"Don't worry, dear." Said Dr. Mizuno. "After all, Usagi is going with them."
"Thanks... now I can panic in peace." Commented Rei, but all knew that she wasn't serious.
In silence, all watched as the platform raised to the surface, and still remained there a few more minutes after it lowered back.
* * * *
It had been an uneventful travel so far, everyone chatting amicably among themselves in order to pass the time. Even more, the Guardian had brought with him a deck of cards, and was engaged along with Emerald Knight, Endymion and Uranus in a friendly game of poker. Pluto, Neptune and Saturn were chatting, the same as the rest of the Inners. Alex had taken Mercury's place, and was monitoring the sensors, while Jendra had left the communications console in automatic. Yohann was the only one that was in his post, but he didn't mind that at all, since he wanted to have something to do to distract his mind and keep it focussed on something else than his heartache.
"We have just passed Cuba, sweetie." Reported Alex in that moment. "We'll be on top of the coordinates in another five minutes."
"Thank you, Alex."
Deciding to keep the ensuing conversation private, Alex decided to link with his armor and use their mental link. 'Sweetie... come on, snap out of it! This can't go on forever!'
'I wish I could believe you, Alex... but for the way things look like right now, I doubt I have a chance again.'
'Pork Chops... I know it's not my place for say this, but you should have seen Robin during the days you were... well, out. She was worried sick for you! That kind of feelings don't change in an instant.'
'However, I managed to do exactly that like the moron I am, isn't it?
'Yohann... all right, I accept that I don't have too much experience in the emotional department, but come on! You were the one that literally wanted to buy Robin's affection back with all those presents! And with Agency's resources, no less! Even I would be furious against you!'
'Intellectually, I know Alex... it's just that...'
'Hold that thought, sweetie. I'm getting something.' Immediately, Alex linked back with the Engineering console and began to check the last data. "Mercury... would you mind to come and check this readings? They don't make any sense."
In an instant, Mercury was back in front of the console, and checked the readings from the external sensors. When she finished reading them, she commented. "You're right, Alex. They don't make any sense."
"What is it, Mercury?" inquired Yohann.
"There seems to be an unfocussed spatial distortion up ahead. I doubt in saying that, since the area is pretty big. What is stranger, is that there is an increase in the magnetic energy concentration in the same area. I've never seen anything like this before."
"Hey, what's that?" with Uranus' question, everyone looked to the main screen. Quite visibly, was an enormous fog bank, obscuring a big section of the ocean.
"I don't get it!" exclaimed Mercury. "There simply mustn't be any fog in this time of the year and in this area! The meteorological conditions aren't adequate for that!"
"I don't like this." Said Moon. "This is too creepy!"
"Jendra, call Gaia. Use a shielded frequency; we better start transmitting everything we find out." Said Yohann, keeping the same course... that will eventually take them right into the middle of the mysterious fogbank. "Also, keep an eye open for the commercial communications. I don't want to have any surprises in there."
"Roger. Initiating data transfer now." Said Jendra.
A couple of minutes later, the Leviathan was flying almost touching the surface of the sea, its sensors at full power. They had reduced the speed, since under those conditions it was pretty dangerous to fly any faster.
"Great..." muttered Alex. "The readings on the Doppler radar are all screwed! I can't make heads or tails of the readings!"
"Regular radar is down too." Commented Mercury. "The only one that works now is the ultrasonic radar. At least it's not affected. Although the GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) system is functioning erratically."
"And the external cameras are of no use too." Said Uranus, grumbling. "I hate when I have to crawl like this!"
"Hold it gang! I'm getting something" Exclaimed Jendra all of a sudden. "I'm putting it on speakers." The message was garbled with static, but it was still discernable. With each phrase, the tension on the cockpit raised dramatically.
"... is fl... WA-1334, come... peat, this is flight... any vessel... area. Our ins... ents are down. Pos... on unknown. Request assis... Repea... is fl... TWA-13... to any..."
"Oh my God... those people! What happened to them?" asked Moon, worried.
"Looks like the magnetic distortion of the area froze their instruments." Offered Alex. "They could be flying in circles and they'd never know until they crash in the ocean!"
"Jendra, do you know where that transmission originated?" asked Yohann, already working on the flight controls.
"Yes. Bearing 221, about three thousand feet up." Answered Jendra.
"Yohann, do you think it's wise to intervene?" inquired Pluto. "Out need for secrecy could be severely compromised if we go there."
Yohann stiffened on his seat, but kept his voice calm. "Pluto, with all due respect... right now, I don't give a damn for secrecy! There's people in need for help, and so far, we're the only ones that can answer their plea." His hands moving at full speed, he adjusted the trajectory. "I'm taking full control of the ship now. We're going there." With a sudden burst of speed, the Leviathan flew in direction of the SOS.
They were almost 700 yards away from the origin of the call, when all of a sudden, the weather cleared. The Leviathan emerged into a perfect circle of calm. Even the water was perfectly calm, not even waves were visible on its surface.
"What the...? What is going on here??" asked Uranus, her mouth open.
"Amazing... there's not even wind blowing here. The calm is absolute in this sector." Muttered Mercury, trying with all her might to find a logical explanation to the strange phenomena.
"Keep calm, everyone." Said the Guardian. "For now, let's concentrate in finding that plane. They shouldn't be too far away."
"I got contact!" exclaimed Alex. "They are right on top of us, and to starboard!"
Before anyone could react, Venus screamed all of a sudden. "WHAT THE HELL IS THAT??"
All eyes focussed on the screen, and there was a collective gasp. In the surface of the unnaturally calm ocean, appeared a perfect circle of light. Suddenly, a thing ray emerged from the center of the circle, striking the plane that the team had gone to assist. On the speakers, the petition of help from the passenger plane changed.
"Mayday, Mayday! This is flight TWA-1334! Our engines have shut down! Our instruments are unresponsive! Mayday, Mayday! We'll attempt an emergency landing at sea! Position unknown! Repeat, Mayday, Mayday! This is flight TWA-1334!...
"Oh my God... what are we going to do??" exclaimed Jupiter.
"Mercury, Alex! Give me full power to shields on top of the ship!" exclaimed Yohann, at the same time he maneuvered the Leviathan.
"Full power, sweetie! But what are you going to do?" asked Alex.
"Something I hope works. Hang on, everybody! This is going to get rough!"
The Leviathan darted towards the rapidly falling passenger jet, carefully maneuvering under it. The more the ship approached, it became increasingly difficult to keep it stable, since the jet stream generated by the plane buffeted the Leviathan. With a sudden jerking, the Leviathan's shields made contact with the jet, partially enveloping the lower part of the later.
"What are you doing??" exclaimed Uranus. "You are going to kill us all!"
"Let's hope it doesn't come to that, Uranus." Said Yohann absentmindedly. "All right, Alex, Mercury, give me all the power you can and directed towards the main thrusters. We have to keep these birds on the air!"
"I really hope you know what you're doing, Yohann." said Mercury, at the same time she fidgeted with the controls on her console. "Reactor at full capacity. Directing auxiliary batteries' power towards the engines. You have everything we got!"
"come on baby... you can do this... don't fail me now!" Yohann began to pull the control stick, while keeping an eye on the altitude indicator. The ship was buffeting like crazy, so much that even the inertial dampeners were unable to cope with it. Currently, it was showing two thousand feet and dropping fast.
1800...
1500...
1000...
800...
500...
400...
300...
300...
350...
400...
500...
"It's working!" exclaimed Uranus. "We're climbing!"
"We're not out of it yet. We are right on top of that energy circle." Commented the Guardian. That was right. They were zooming right on top of that area.
"One problem at a time, please...!" muttered Yohann, who was sweating from the effort. In no time at all, they aircrafts had cleared the area in a steady, albeit slow, climbing.
"Sensors indicate that the jet regained its power!" reported Mercury. "Their engines are working again!"
"About time!" exclaimed Alex. "I wasn't sure we could keep that 737 on our backs for any longer!"
There was a cheer among the Senshi and their companions, followed by a 'uuff!' from Yohann. During the brief celebration, Jendra raised her voice. "Hold it, gang! It seems that some of the passengers saw us approaching. The jet is hailing us!" She then raised the volume of the speakers.
"This is flight TWA-1334 to unidentified craft. Whoever you are... thanks. Repeat, this is flight TWA-1334 to unidentified craft. Please respond."
"What the heck... why not?" Yohann then took the microphone and activated it. "Flight TWA-1334, it was a pleasure. Have a nice landing." He then addressed Jendra. "Cut the communications. Let them deal with that for a while."
"That was a reckless action, you know?" said Pluto, looking intently at Yohann. "Nevertheless, that was the right thing to do. You saved a lot of lives."
"It was nothing. I bet you could have done the same thing." Said Yohann, smiling. "All stations, damage report."
"Nothing here, Yohann." said Mercury. "All systems working fine."
"Same here." Said Jendra.
"Here too." Said Uranus. "I have to admit it. You put this ship together better than how it was."
The Leviathan was already separating from the jet when, suddenly, a second energy beam emerged from the circle, this time hitting the Leviathan. But unlike the previous one, this one continued focussing on the ship.
On the interior of the Leviathan, the lights went out, being replaced by the red emergency lights. A series of alarms began to sound at the same time a series of emergency indicators began to flash in all consoles.
"We lost the shields!" reported Mercury. "Main power is dropping fast! Switching to auxiliary!"
"All communications are jammed!" said Jendra. "I lost contact with Gaia!"
"Controls doesn't respond! Weapons systems are locked!" said Uranus, fighting with her controls.
"That was a close one!" said Alex, who had downloaded into Yohann's armor. "Main computer is down! It almost got me there!"
"I lost all thrusters! Graviton engines down! I can't control it!" exclaimed Yohann. "We're going down!"
The Leviathan, all power gone, became a dead weight in the air, but instead of falling in a straight line, it was dragged by the strange ray towards the glowing circle. In a matter of seconds, the ship hit the water and was rapidly underwater. As soon as the shock waves subsided, the mysterious circle vanished, at the same time the fog bank began to disperse. In the matter of an hour, there was no sign that something had happened.
The Bermuda Triangle had claimed another victim.
TO BE CONTINUED.
Chapter 21: The Atlantis Mission. To mend a broken heart.
Yohann just remained on his place, completely shocked and confused. Robin continued talking, her voice cracking a little.
"You can forget completely about us. I don't want to see you ever again!"
In that moment, Usagi approached her friends, and standing next to Robin, she said. "You can't be serious! Robin, are you all right?"
"No, I'm not right..." said Robin, gasping for a moment. "But I have to do this." She then turned around and, without looking back, she added. "Now, if you excuse me, I have to return to my room." With that, she headed back to her room with all the dignity she could muster from the situation.
As soon as Robin turned the corner, the Guardian approached Yohann. The later hadn't moved an inch, his hand still on his cheek. "Sir... are you alright?"
Yohann didn't say a word. Instead, he turned around, almost bumping with a pair of orderlies that had been looking for him. Wordlessly, he passed them and walked towards the elevators.
With the moment passed, the hospital staff returned to their normal occupations, with the exception of Usagi, Mamoru and the Guardian. The first one to break the silence was the Guardian. "Can someone please explain to me what happened?"
At his questioning, Usagi and Mamoru looked at each other, worry etched on their faces. Finally, Mamoru addressed the Guardian. "Just the beginning of a new set of problems, Hogosuro. A big deal of them..."
* * * *
The next day, Robin had been released from the hospital by authorization of Dr. Mizuno. Yohann, however, had to remain for two more days. He spent those days receiving the visit of all the other members of the team, all the while the Guardian kept watch on his door.
The last day, Technuma checked on Yohann's medical chart and, after making a couple of notations on it, he said. "Well, I have to admit it. You recovered really fast. If the last lab tests come clean, you'll be back home by the end of the day."
"Thank goodness." Muttered Yohann.
Technuma decided to let that comment pass, and instead he focussed on something else. "Tell me Lieutenant. What are you going to do now?"
"I intend to return to my base, repair what I can there... and finish what I came here to do, I guess." Answered Yohann. "Why?"
Technuma raised an eyebrow, and continued. "That's very commendable of you, Lieutenant. But that's not what I asked." Seeing that Yohann didn't have a clue, he added. "I mean, in respect of my daughter. What are you going to do now?"
"I don't know, sir." Sighed Yohann. "She doesn't want to see me anymore... and frankly, I don't blame her. I was so... rotten with her."
"You did what you thought was right at the moment, Lieutenant. Granted, you went overboard with the things you told her, but you did it with her best interests in mind."
"I don't believe that anymore, sir. I... I think I did all that because I'm an egotistical, manipulative and egomaniac bastard." Said Yohann, looking away from Technuma.
"Do you really believe that of yourself?" queried Technuma.
"I don't know anymore, sir... at least, that's what Robin thinks of me now..."
"I don't think so." Countered Technuma. "You see, you are her first loved one outside me and the girls. Now, this is also her first emotional disappointment. And for that, I'm as guilty as you." Seeing that Yohann was listening at his words now, he continued. "All this could have been avoided if I hadn't pressed you to leave her. I guess I was... jealous of you."
"Jealous, sir?"
"Yes, jealous. Jealous of how you won her heart so easily. Jealous of how happy you were together. And jealous of you in general." Finished Technuma.
"Sir, I... am sorry, sir."
"Don't apologize for something that's not your fault, Lieutenant. That's in the past now." Both men remained silent for a couple of minutes, after those Technuma asked again. "So... any plans for her now?"
"Are you sure you still want me in your family, sir?" asked Yohann.
"Let me put it this way, Lieutenant... she could've done worse."
"Touché."
"Well, Lieutenant? What's your answer? Are you up to the challenge?" asked Technuma. Seeing that Yohann was still hesitant, he decided to add a little more weight. "I happen to recall something a person once told me, and I quote... 'I won't allow nothing or no one... not even YOU... to stay between us.'
"Sounds familiar?"
"Yes..." murmured Yohann. "I remember clearly now. I didn't fulfill that promise, right?"
"Looks like it, but there's still time to rescue something from the situation." Said Technuma. Adopting a serious expression, he asked. "So... are you up to the challenge?"
Yohann's only answer was a smile and a nod.
* * * *
Three days later...
Usagi and Robin were having their lunch in the school cafeteria. By general agreement, all the girls had accepted to continue helping Yohann with the last two bases that needed to be closed, but there still were lots of work to do in respects of repairing the base. Also, using the minerals and precious metals obtained with the desalinization plant at the base, Yohann and co. got enough money to do a complete overhaul of the house. The repairs in that respect were already done, with the help of the construction bots. With the help of Setsuna, Sonya had made sure to buy some specialized equipment using false names in order to prevent Cauldron to trace such equipment back to them. Also, with the exception of the specialized equipment made of the Agency's technology, most of the base had been refurbished and rearmed.
"Robin, you should eat... you're losing a lot of weight lately." Said Usagi.
"I'm not that hungry... besides, I need to lose some extra pounds I gained recently." Answered Robin.
Usagi looked at her friend worriedly. During the last days, she had lost that spark, that spunk that characterized them. She still went to the training sessions, but it was obvious that her heart wasn't in them. In general, she spent lot of time feeling miserable. Something Usagi and the rest didn't like one bit.
At that moment, Usagi was wondering what to do to help her friend, but so far, nothing had work. Robin didn't admit it, but she still missed Yohann. The rest of the gang tried to distract Robin from her heartbreak, but they stumbled with complete failure time and time again.
"Robin... what do you say if we go to visit the mall after school?" tried Usagi one more time. And one more time, she received the same answer.
"Thanks... but I'm not in the mood."
Usagi repressed the urge to groan at her friend, but refrained herself at the last second. She was trying to figure out what else to say when they were interrupted.
A messenger approached them in that instant, and after checking something with a group of people next to the door, he headed in their direction. Once there, he addressed them. "Excuse me, do you know a certain..." he checked a notepad he was carrying with him. "... Miss Robin Redwing?"
Usagi and Robin looked at each other, puzzled. In unison, both shrugged, and Robin answered. "I'm Robin Redwing."
"Good!" said the stranger. "For a moment, I thought we couldn't make it on time." Turning on a walkie-talkie, he said. "We did it guys. Bring it in!"
Before anyone could say a word, a group of five waiters entered the cafeteria, three of them carrying trolleys covered with linen cloths and silverware services, along with a violinist. In a moment, they cleared the table of the two surprised teenagers, and began to place silver service in front of them.
After the initial shock passed, Usagi was the first one to talk. "What is the meaning of this!?!?"
The headwaiter (Or at least that's what he said he was) answered. "Doing our job, miss. We were hired to serve lunch to Miss Redwing here, full service."
"But... who's paying for this??" asked Robin, still slightly in shock.
The headwaiter handed Robin a single red rose with a card. "I have strict instructions to give you this when you make that question, milady."
Robin took the card from the rose, and read it. Her eyes opened incredulously when she read the short message.
Usagi couldn't contain her curiosity any longer, and taking the card from Robin's numb fingers, she read it herself. Her eyes misted a little and smiled slightly when she read it. Printed on the card, were only five words:
I'm sorry. Please forgive me. signed, Y.S.
"Isn't he sweet, Robin? I think you should give him a chance." Gushed Usagi. "I mean, not everyone does something like this for anyone, don't you agree?" when she didn't get an answer, she looked at her friend. "Robin? Robin, are you there? Hello? Earth to Robin, come in..."
Usagi would have continued trying to get Robin out of her shock, but when the first dishes were served, she told to herself. "well, it will be a real shame to let all this food go to waste, don't you think?"
And with those words, their lunch started, among the looks of the student body. During the whole lunch, Robin just stared at the food, still in shock.
After school, Usagi and Robin had to wade among a veritably sized group of curious friends, all of them eager to learn all about the mysterious 'Y.S.' that paid for such entertainment during lunch. Doing a fine job that any politician would envy with a 'non-answer' series of answers, they finally got out of the mob and headed to their homes.
"I can't believe he did that!" said Robin, fuming. "That was so embarrassing!"
"I don't know." Said Usagi. "Those crepe suzettes were delicious!"
"You know what I mean..." muttered Robin.
In that instant Laurella, Minako, Ami and Makoto joined them, and the group of friends began to talk about their last classes. Usagi couldn't stop herself to talk about the lunch incident. As expected, the reactions were unanimous.
"that's so sweet!" said Laurella.
"Not to mention romantic." Added Minako.
"what surprises me is that the school board allowed such spectacle to happen." Said Ami.
"I was as surprised in that respect as you are, believe me." Said Robin. "But they had permission. How he got it, I don't know...but he did it."
"Well, at least he's persistent. We have to handle him that." Said Makoto, the rest nodding in agreement. She then addressed Robin directly. "So... what are you going to do?"
"Do? What do you think I'm going to do? He can't expect for me to jump to his arms with such a pathetic attempt!" retorted Robin, fuming. "I'm not going back with him, and that's final!"
"You know? That didn't sound as strong as she intended..." commented Laurella.
"I think so." Said Usagi.
"Same here." Added Makoto.
"Ami, what are the odds that Robin will forgive him?" asked Minako.
"Very good, actually." Said Ami, smiling.
"Ami, how could you!?!?" said Robin, scandalized.
The rest of her friends just laughed hard at her reaction, and decided to cut her a slack. The rest of the walk proceeded with a certain semblance of tranquility. That is, until they reached the corner where they were going to go their own ways.
"Well, guys. See you tomorrow, ok?" said Robin, getting ready to get to Setsuna's place.
"Sure! Keep in touch, ok?" said Usagi.
The rest were going to get on their way, when Minako noticed it first. "Hey, isn't that a delivery truck in front of your place, Robin?" she pointed. Everybody turned immediately in such direction.
Effectively, in front of Setsuna's mansion was parked the delivery truck of a well-known flower shop.
The whole group just stayed there, looking at the truck, until the sound of Robin's schoolbag hitting the floor distracted them. As one, the girls looked at their friend. Robin was looking at the vehicle with a look of dismay no one had ever seen on her.
"He didn't..." she murmured, and ran immediately in direction of her place. The rest were hot on her heels, after Makoto retrieved the discarded schoolbag. They arrived at the same instant the truck was leaving the entrance.
Before anyone could say a thing, the front door opened, and Haruka, Michiru and Setsuna appeared, all of them with a stern look on their faces. Haruka was the first one to talk.
"Robin," she started, "You have to do something about this."
"The situation has to be handled as soon as possible. It could have serious consequences if left unattended." Continued Setsuna.
"Not to mention that we have limited space to live here." Finished Michiru.
"What are you talking about??" asked Robin.
The trio of older women just stepped aside from the entrance. Robin felt a sense of dread about getting inside, but after taking a deep breath, she entered the house. There was a moment of silence before it was broken by a very loud "HOW COULD HE??" That prompted the rest of the group to enter before her. Nobody said a word at the sight that presented in front of them.
On every free bit of space available, there were floral arrangements of every size and form available. There was hardly space to walk around.
"I can't believe it..." muttered Usagi.
"The last shipment arrived just a few minutes ago." Said Haruka. "there's no more place to put anything else around here!"
"Last... shipment?" asked Robin, dumbfounded.
"We've been receiving all kind of things all day long, young lady." Said Setsuna. "and the delivery man said that there is more on the way."
"You should go and check your room. This is nothing!" said Michiru.
Robin didn't wait to hear anything else, and sprinted in direction of the stairs, her friends right behind her. The climb was slightly difficult, due to the small flowerpots that were on each step. The second floor looked more like a greenhouse than anything else, the scent of the flowers permeating each and every corner of the place. Robin looked at the closed door of her room, not daring to open it.
Looking that Robin wasn't going to move anytime soon, Minako decided to take action on her hands, and opened the door. The whole house rocked on its foundations with the group's jaws hitting the floor at the same time (figuratively, of course.) Nobody said a word when they entered the room slowly, trying to assimilate the sight in front of them.
Michiru was right. If there was hardly any space to move around in the house, Robin's room was a place where no movement was possible. Stuffed to the roof were an immense quantity of boxes, flower arrangements and stuffed animals. In front of the imposing wall of presents was a toy bear the size of Robin, with sad eyes. Secured on its paws, was a big card with these words.
Please, would you forgive me? Y.S.
There was another awkward moment of silence, until Makoto broke it. "You were saying something about a 'pathetic attempt' before, Robin?"
"He's really trying hard." Commented Laurella.
Nobody paid attention to the doorbell, but Robin shuddered at the sound of it.
"Hey, look at this!" said Usagi. "There has to be at least forty chocolate and candy boxes, and just on this corner!" With that as a signal, the rest began to look around the boxes, taking care of not toppling them on top of them.
"Oh my God!" said Minako. "And look at this! Oscar de la Renta... Pierre Cardin... Gucci... And those are the brands that are visible just here!"
"That's nothing!" said Laurella. "This whole pile... comes from Tiffany's!"
"Incredible..." murmured Ami. "there's an iMac here! With a whole set of programs of all kinds available for it!"
In that moment, Haruka appeared at the doorframe. "Robin... you have to come here. There's another present here for you."
"Another one?" asked Robin, still trying to regain her bearings.
Sighing exasperatedly, Haruka grabbed Robin's hand and literally dragged her to the front door. The rest followed them, curious. When they arrived, they couldn't believe what they were seeing.
Right at the entrance, was a metallic blue Pontiac convertible, with a huge red ribbon on the hood. Setsuna and Michiru were looking at a card on the steering wheel. Trembling, Robin took the card and opened it. As she expected, there were the same words than in all the other cards she had read the whole day.
Please, would you forgive me? Y.S.
"This... is a major overkill." Said Makoto.
"You could say that again." Said Ami.
"All right, that's it!" said Robin. "Where is my schoolbag?"
"I... left it in your room." Said Makoto.
"Thanks." Without waiting another moment, Robin entered the mansion, leaving the rest to check the car.
"You know?" said Michiru, taking Haruka's hand on hers. "This reminds me of our first fight."
Haruka smiled at Michiru. "I wasn't this bad, was I?"
"No. You were worse."
Everybody turned around in time to see Robin leaving the house, cellular phone in hand. "Yes, you heard me right. I need two big trucks before sunset. And make sure to bring lots of people. I want certain things to be moved before eight o'clock. Yes, charge it to my credit card, you already have the number. Yes, I'll be waiting. Thank you!"
"Robin... what was that all about?" inquired Usagi.
"I'm sending all this back his way." Said Robin. "If he thinks he's going to buy my affection with these... these... trinkets, he's grossly mistaken!" addressing Setsuna, she added. "If you need me, I'll be on the living room, trying to take a nap. I have a headache" She then returned to the house, all the time muttering things better left unsaid.
Nobody said a thing for a couple of minutes, until Setsuna broke the silence this time. "Well, she took this better than I expected."
* * * *
It was quarter to eight when the last of the presents were securely loaded on one of the moving trucks and sent on their way to the base. Sighing in relief, Robin closed the door and headed towards her room, while the rest of the Outer Senshi headed to their own rooms. Around ten, Setsuna left her room, transformed into Sailor Pluto, and opened a portal to head towards the Gate.
She wasn't surprised to see the Commander guarding the place. "Good evening, Galos."
"Good evening, Setsuna." Said the Commander, nodding her way. "I hope Yohann didn't cause too many inconveniences."
"Let's just say, that this experience was... interesting." Answered Setsuna. "So... anything new while I was on the timestream?"
"Not much. Just the same things we foresaw before." Said the Commander. Turning around to see her straight, he added. "Although, I think it's fair to warn you..."
"You know the Rules of Time, Commander." Interrupted Setsuna. "Don't tell me a thing unless it's vital to preserve the timeline."
"I'm perfectly aware of the Rules, Setsuna. But I think that you should know..."
"If it's not important, then don't say a thing, and I mean it." Interrupted Setsuna again. "Now, if you don't mind, I want to check the timeline myself."
"Suit yourself." Said the Commander, stepping aside to allow Setsuna to start. "But don't say later that I didn't try to warn you."
"I'll keep that in mind, thank you." With that, Setsuna began to check the timeline, all the while the Commander kept looking at her, an amused look on his face. An undetermined time later, she finished. "We'll have to make a couple of corrections here and there, but everything looks fine."
"It's always a pleasure to see a professional at work..." murmured the Commander, looking intently at her.
"Excuse me? You said something?" asked Setsuna.
"No, nothing. Don't worry, it wasn't really important." Said the Commander, but he kept looking at her. When she finally noticed it, she decided to ask.
"Is there anything you want to tell me that I don't know?"
The Commander smiled broadly, and took a small box from one of the pockets on his cape. "Just a couple of things, Setsuna. This is for you."
Setsuna sighed, having had her quota of receiving presents for the next century, but still she accepted the box. Opening it, she saw an orquid corsage inside.
"I was wondering..." started the Commander, "if you would mind... joining me for dinner this Sunday evening... that is... if you... well... I... you see..."
"Galos... you're babbling." Interrupted Setsuna.
"Aaah... yes, you're right." Finally said the Commander, looking sheepishly at his feet. Clearing his throat, he tried again. "The point is... do you accept?"
Setsuna raised an eyebrow, looking at him. She felt flattered, but was cautious not to show it. Finally, she decided. "It would be a pleasure, Galos."
The Commander let out the breath he didn't know he was holding, smiling at her. "Excellent. At your place, eight o'clock?"
"You're not planning to take me around the centuries again, are you?"
"I could if you want to." Said the Commander, smirking at the thought, all the while he started to plan in that direction.
"I pass for now, thank you." Said Setsuna. "I prefer a quiet, normal dinner. If you don't mind."
"Consider it done." As an afterthought, the Commander added. "Why don't you go to sleep now? You had a rough day. I can keep watching here."
"Don't mind if I do." Said Setsuna, smiling slightly his way. "And you're right, this was a really tiresome day."
"Good night, Setsuna. And sweet dreams."
"Thank you, Galos. See you this weekend." Said Setsuna, after which she crossed the Gate back to her mansion.
The Commander shook his head slightly, sighing. "You should have listened to me, Setsuna. I'm afraid these are our last moments together... and I plan to take advantage of each second of them."
His words turned out to be proven by the weekend.
* * * *
Hikawa Temple, afternoon.
Rei and Sonya were together having a nice cup of tea and cookies, the first after a tough day at school, the second after an exhausting day at the base. They were happy to have a moment of solace and tranquility between them.
"He did it again, eh?" asked Rei.
"Yes." Sighed Sonya. "I don't know what he's trying to accomplish. I mean, Robin has left perfectly clear that he can't get to her with material presents. But he keeps going on."
"You have to remember that men can be pretty dense." Said Rei. "Normally, they don't get a clue, even if we hit them in the head with it... repeatedly."
"That's so true..." Said Sonya. "Hey, do you know that Hogosuro is going to take cooking classes?"
"Cooking classes?" inquired Rei. "Him? I never thought he had it on him."
"Believe it, he has it. You should see what he bought for himself... an apron that says 'kiss the cook'!"
Rei had the mental picture of such a muscle-bound mountain with an apron and a spoon on his hand, and couldn't contain herself from laughing out loud, Sonya joining her as well. It took them a few minutes to get back to their senses, but once in a while they giggled at the memory.
"So..." started Sonya after they had some semblance of control, "how are you doing?"
"Fine..." commented Rei, looking slightly crestfallen. "Now that I'm entering my fifth month, Dr. Mizuno says that I should stop going with you for the rest of the attacks."
"And I agree completely with her." Said Sonya. "Remember that you have to think of your new family now as well as the others."
"I know, I know... but that still doesn't mean I have to like it."
"The burden we all female warriors have to face one time or another." Sighed Sonya.
In that moment, the door opened, allowing a very furious Robin to enter the room.
Rei blinked a couple of times, not accustomed to see her friend in such state, but regained her bearings almost immediately. "Robin... hi. What can I do for you?"
"Nothing, thank you... well, unless you can create an anti-Yohann ofuda." Said Robin, kneeling next to Sonya.
"What did the Lieutenant do this time?" asked Sonya, sounding tired.
"The nerve..." began Robin, gritting her teeth. "This time, he had the audacity to make a little donation for the scholarship program of the school."
"And how... little... was his donation?" asked Sonya.
When Robin mentionned the quantity, Rei's jaw hit the floor, while Sonya just covered her face with her hands. "And that wasn't the worse part!" finished Robin.
"I'm afraid to ask..." Said Rei. "And what was it, then?"
Robin fumed at the memory, but answered nevertheless. "That now, every girl in the school want ME to give THEM his phone number!"
Nobody said a thing for a minute, too stunned to say a thing. Finally, Sonya broke the silence. "But... how did they know that you and the Lieutenant are no longer an item?"
Robin only stared at Sonya, her looks serious. Rei answered for her. "Let me guess... our fearless leader did it again..."
"That's right." Said Robin, sighing. "But it wasn't her fault. Apparently, one of the girls heard us commenting how I didn't want to get back with him, and... well, you know how are the rumor mills at schools."
"I can imagine." Said Rei, sighing as well. "So, what are you going to do now?"
"That's the point. I don't know." Said Robin. "Any advice you can give me?"
Sonya and Rei looked at each other, not exchanging a word. In unison, they nodded, and turning to look at Robin, they smiled at her. Robin squirmed at the sight, suddenly unsure.
"It looks to me," started Sonya, "that, in order to stop all this, you have to talk with the Lieutenant."
"Mind us," continued Rei, "we're not saying that you have to get back with him. Just discuss things, and reach an agreement."
"At the very least, you can stop him from making a fool of himself, and embarrassing you in the process." Finished Sonya.
"Well... I don't know..." said Robin.
"The more time you take, more presents will come your way." Said Rei, smiling mischievously.
"Good point." Said Robin, shuddering at the memory of the last days. "When do you think will be a good time?"
"The sooner, the better." Said Rei.
"But unfortunately," added Sonya, "it seems that you'll have to wait for a better moment." At Robin and Rei's inquiring gazes, she explained. "Before coming here, the last shipment of equipment we needed arrived. The base will be ready in a matter of hours, and we'll be ready to move on to the next objective."
"I didn't know..." muttered Robin.
"That's because you were playing hard-to-forgive and you weren't paying attention of the latest developments." Quipped Rei, unable to contain herself.
"That's what I came here to say to Rei. That tomorrow there's a briefing scheduled after you all get out of school." Finished Sonya.
"At least, that might give us some breathing space until we return." Said Robin.
"What do you mean by that?" asked Rei.
"I don't think Haruka, Michiru and Setsuna would stand another day of seeing their house stuffed to the gills with floral arrangements." answered Robin. " You know? There's been a slight compensation to all of this... it's really a sight to see Setsuna almost losing her temper each time the doorbell rings."
"Don't say..." said Sonya, suddenly interested in the way the conversation was heading.
"Yeah." Quipped Robin. "She commented yesterday that she was seriously considering to, and I quote, 'to rip that device from hell to shreds and send it to the end of time'."
"Woah!" breathed Rei.
The rest of the afternoon, the three friends continued discussing what had been going on, and the reactions of the others to such events.
* * * *
The next day...
All of the senshi were gathered around the main table at the War Room. Upon arrival, the first thing they noticed was that the repairs were done; or at least, all that could have been done with the available resources.
"Before we start," commenced Yohann, standing up, "I want to deeply apologize to all of you. My past conduct has been completely inexcusable. I acted thinking that I was protecting you, and instead put all of you in great danger. I don't really deserve your help, and even more... your friendship. I have completely dishonored myself with my actions, and if you don't want to assist me, I'll understand." He then bowed deeply, and remained in that position.
Nobody said a word for a few moments, until Sailor Moon started to speak. "Yohann... personally, I understand why you did all what you did. You thought you were doing the right thing, but you take the wrong way somewhere down the line. The important thing to remember here... is that you truly understand the consequences of your acts, and are ready to make amends for that." She looked around slowly, stopping to look at each one of the people in the place for just a second. Once she finished, she continued. "I can't speak for everybody, but personally... I want to continue helping you, Yohann."
The next one to speak was Endymion. "Yohann... I know exactly why you did that, believe me. And I also understand how you must feel because of that. You need someone that can understand and trust you, and if you allow me, I want to help you too. People like us... have to be together, don't you think?"
"Yohann... you thought you were protecting us, and that speaks well of you." Said Sailor Venus. "Your only mistake was not trusting us to be with you. But right now, you are back to your old self... and that's precisely the guy I want to help."
"You trusted your knowledge more than your own heart, Yohann," said Sailor Mercury. "I used to believe the same thing in the past. Fortunately, I have good friends now that helped me to see that feelings are also important. And I can see that you learned the same lesson by yourself. If you allow me, I want to help you too."
"You were blinded by your own need to accomplish your duty, complicated by your necessity to protect the ones that you care for" said Sailor Jendra. "You were willing to pay the ultimate price for that thought... and almost did it. But you saw in time that you don't have to be alone on this quest. As Mamoru said, we have to be together."
"I'm still not happy for you leaving us behind." Said Sailor Jupiter. "But in a way, I have to thank you too for that. You let me and Jendra to prove our worth against a sneak attack, and in the process, we were able to gain our Soul Power. I don't know how much longer would have taken us to achieve it without that attack, but fortunately, everything worked out fine. Also..." she then looked slightly in the Guardian's direction, "I realized that there is something else for me down the line. Count me in."
Each and every one of the presents gave their own opinions, but in the end, they all agreed to help him till the end. Alex had been a little more vocal in her opinion, but she forgave Yohann for what he had done, and expressed her happiness for her 'Pork Chops' being back to his old self. The general atmosphere was bright and full of hope. That is, until it was Sailor Saturn's turn.
"I'm not sure if I can forgive you for what you did, Yohann. Or for what you've done for the last days. But one thing is for sure: I have a sworn duty to my prince and princess, and that is to protect them. If they want to offer their help, by extension I am going to help you too. Just make one thing clear: this is only purely professional, nothing more, nothing else."
Yohann stood up, looking at Saturn sadly, but he managed to smile wanly. "I understand, Saturn. I'll keep that in mind." It took all his will strength to look away from her, but he finally did it. He then addressed the others. "Thank you, all of you. You don't know how much your support and friendship means to me."
"The same goes for us, Yohann. Believe me." Said Sailor Moon, smiling brightly. "So... what's next, Yohann?"
"I'll let Alex explain that to you. Alex?"
"Thank you, sweetbuns!" Linking with the War Room's computer, Alex displayed a world map, this time the mark of their next destination blinking in one zone of the Atlantic Ocean. "You were right, Mercury. My sweetie really HAD a copy of Cauldron's log in the armor's memory banks. So, according to this data, the next base to close is located here." The image then enlarged to show the exact position of the base's remains. "And guess what, Endymion? It's located in your old neighborhood!"
Endymion looked intently at the projection, thinking hard of Alex's words. Finally, it dawned on him. "Alex... you don't mean..."
"That's right! The location of this base is none other than in what was known as Atlantis!" finished the Artificial Intelligence.
"Atlantis... the ancient kingdom of Earth..." muttered Endymion, deep in his thoughts.
"It's not going to be that easy." Pointed our Sailor Mercury. "We all have to remember that, after Beryl's attack, and later the counterstrike made by Queen Serenity, the whole continent went under the waves."
"And that means, that the actual location of the base is underwater." Finished Alex. "That's why Mercury and I designed a whole new set of submarine breathing devices compatible with all of your armors..."
"Whoa, whoa, whoa! Time out!" interrupted Emerald Knight. "Are you telling us that we have to go to the bottom of the ocean this time?"
"I'm afraid so." Said Mercury. "But look at the bright side. Since it's been underwater all this time, it's highly improbable that something remains functioning on that place. It might very well be just a reckon mission."
There were murmurs of agreement around the table, each one thinking of what had been said. Once calm returned to the meeting, it was Sailor Mars the one that made the next question. "So, what is the exact location of this place?"
Alex and Mercury then proceeded to enlarge the area, until a very defined section was visible. To everybody's surprise, the designated area was located right in the Caribbean. "This is too rich to be a coincidence." Said Alex. "Because the place is right in the Bermudas!"
"Neat!" said Sailor Moon. "Do you think we could stop nearby to grab a suntan? It's been so cold lately!" at this comment, all the presents developed some very impressive sweatdrops.
"We'll... see about that." Said Yohann, recovering from the impression. "For now, let's concentrate in what we have to do, ok?"
"Just one question." Said Sailor Neptune. "I don't know if it's related to this or not, but isn't that region known also as the Bermuda Triangle?"
"Now that you mention it, that's right..." muttered Sonya. "If what I learned of that place is right, that area has been known for quite some time for strange disappearances and occurrences, correct?"
"Oh, nonsense!" interrupted Alex. "You can't believe that widow's tales, can you?? I mean, that zone is a heavy maritime traffic area! For each supposed disappearance, there are dozens of ships and planes that cross that place unharmed! No, those phenomena can be easily explained by meteorological occurrences, or human mistake."
"I agree with Alex." Said the Guardian. "Even for our line of work, to think that there's truly something strange in that place, is ridiculous."
"And what makes you say that?" inquired Sailor Jupiter.
"Tell me something... if there was something supernatural in that place, don't you think any of you would have noticed it by now?" finished the Guardian.
"Good point." Conceded Sailor Jupiter.
"Well, now that the place has been deemed secure by our resident experts," began to say Sailor Uranus, "and with Cauldron and MerLynn out of the picture, it's safe to assume that this outing is going to be a walk in the park?"
"I wouldn't say that exactly." Said Yohann. "But it's a good guess that it won't be as difficult as the previous ones. Nevertheless, we have to be prepared."
"So, what do we have to do now?" inquired Sailor Venus.
"Not much, really." Said the Guardian. "Unfortunately, we lost most of the simulation programs of the Gymnasium, so we can't practice for Deep Sea dives. Therefore, we all have to trust on our current equipment and abilities to pull this one out."
"The best we all can do, is practice swimming in the pool." Said Mercury. "Besides that, there's nothing else we can do."
"Somehow, I find this situation depressing." Commented Emerald Knight. "We are going to go to that place totally unprepared."
"It's not going to be that different from when we all started." Quipped Sailor Moon. "Come on! We can do it! We've always been victorious, and this time, we will prevail as well, in the name of love and friendship, we'll be triumphant!"
Everybody looked at her, incredulity easily seen on their faces. But the moment passed soon, to be replaced with their echoing voices. Yohann looked all around, feeling satisfied and happy in company of his friends. However, his feelings suddenly made a dive when he looked at Robin. He knew he had a lot of work to do if he wanted to repair the bridges of friendship and love that he so foolishly had destroyed.
* * * *
That Friday morning...
"I still don't like it." Muttered Rei. "I should be going with them!"
Rei, Sonya, the Tsukinos, Dr. Mizuno and Technuma were together in the Hangar, watching carefully the loading procedures the others were already finishing. For the last two days, all of the Senshi had been spending at least two hours swimming in the pool, in an attempt to improve their abilities. As expected, Ami and Michiru excelled in that field, the only one that could swim in par of them was Usako. It was still something weird for them to accept that Chibi-Usa had grown so much, from a little girl to a stunningly beautiful teenager. When Alex and the others learned about that, the first thing they did was to hack into Tokyo's computer systems and create a whole new identity for her, complete with papers to allow her to attend the same school Usagi and Robin were going.
"Sorry, but you know that at this stage, you shouldn't exert yourself, young lady." Said Akane. "Besides, since your element is fire, I don't think your powers would make too much good in an underwater environment."
"I'm afraid she's right, Rei." Said Technuma. "You could ignite your flames, but they wouldn't be able to travel too long before dissipating."
"And that kind of exertion is definitely not good for you under your conditions." Finished Ikuko. "You have to think of your children now."
"I know, I know... Don't remind me..."mumbled Rei, leaning against the wall. "But why Hogosuro has to go instead of you, Sonya? I don't get it."
"I asked them for it, dear." Said Sonya, smiling gently in Rei's direction. "Besides, I don't move that well underwater. I would be a hindrance in this mission."
"And Hogosuro is better than you? But he can't even float!" retorted Rei.
"Granted, but he has a great advantage above all of us." Countered Sonya. "He doesn't need to breathe, and can move faster underwater. Besides, do you really think he would have remained here knowing that Jupiter is going?"
"A very good point, indeed." Admitted Rei, not helping a mischievous smile appear on her face.
A few minutes later, everything was on board and all the ones that were going to be on that mission had started to board the Leviathan. In that moment, Yohann approached Saturn, not very sure of what he wanted to say, but nevertheless wanting to do anything.
"Robin... is everything ok?" 'Oh, boy... I can't be lamer than this!'
""Everything is perfectly fine, Lieutenant Starr." Answered Robin, her voice cold and methodical. "All the necessary material has been loaded, and the ship is in full operational order. All our equipment is functioning perfectly, and we are as ready as we can be. Is there anything else you want to ask?"
Yohann felt like his heart broke in very tiny pieces, each one piercing his chest. Lowering his gaze, he tried one more time. "Just... to make sure... that, if you want, you can be the copilot this time."
"That won't be necessary. As per our previous arrangement, and since I piloted the ship last time, Uranus is the one that will be copilot for this mission." Turning around, Robin added, without looking at him. "If there is nothing else, I suggest we board the ship. It's getting late."
Making an effort to swallow the lump that suddenly had grown on his throat, Yohann was only able to say weakly, "yes... board. Let's go." With secure steps, Robin entered the Leviathan, leaving him behind. Yohann felt suddenly weak and slightly ill, but still he headed towards the entrance.
The ones to remain at the base had observed the whole exchange, and were commenting among themselves.
"I almost feel sorry for him." Said Sonya, shaking her head.
"What I'm worried about, is if this is going to affect this mission. It's my friends the ones that could be at risk there!" said Rei.
"Don't worry, dear." Said Dr. Mizuno. "After all, Usagi is going with them."
"Thanks... now I can panic in peace." Commented Rei, but all knew that she wasn't serious.
In silence, all watched as the platform raised to the surface, and still remained there a few more minutes after it lowered back.
* * * *
It had been an uneventful travel so far, everyone chatting amicably among themselves in order to pass the time. Even more, the Guardian had brought with him a deck of cards, and was engaged along with Emerald Knight, Endymion and Uranus in a friendly game of poker. Pluto, Neptune and Saturn were chatting, the same as the rest of the Inners. Alex had taken Mercury's place, and was monitoring the sensors, while Jendra had left the communications console in automatic. Yohann was the only one that was in his post, but he didn't mind that at all, since he wanted to have something to do to distract his mind and keep it focussed on something else than his heartache.
"We have just passed Cuba, sweetie." Reported Alex in that moment. "We'll be on top of the coordinates in another five minutes."
"Thank you, Alex."
Deciding to keep the ensuing conversation private, Alex decided to link with his armor and use their mental link. 'Sweetie... come on, snap out of it! This can't go on forever!'
'I wish I could believe you, Alex... but for the way things look like right now, I doubt I have a chance again.'
'Pork Chops... I know it's not my place for say this, but you should have seen Robin during the days you were... well, out. She was worried sick for you! That kind of feelings don't change in an instant.'
'However, I managed to do exactly that like the moron I am, isn't it?
'Yohann... all right, I accept that I don't have too much experience in the emotional department, but come on! You were the one that literally wanted to buy Robin's affection back with all those presents! And with Agency's resources, no less! Even I would be furious against you!'
'Intellectually, I know Alex... it's just that...'
'Hold that thought, sweetie. I'm getting something.' Immediately, Alex linked back with the Engineering console and began to check the last data. "Mercury... would you mind to come and check this readings? They don't make any sense."
In an instant, Mercury was back in front of the console, and checked the readings from the external sensors. When she finished reading them, she commented. "You're right, Alex. They don't make any sense."
"What is it, Mercury?" inquired Yohann.
"There seems to be an unfocussed spatial distortion up ahead. I doubt in saying that, since the area is pretty big. What is stranger, is that there is an increase in the magnetic energy concentration in the same area. I've never seen anything like this before."
"Hey, what's that?" with Uranus' question, everyone looked to the main screen. Quite visibly, was an enormous fog bank, obscuring a big section of the ocean.
"I don't get it!" exclaimed Mercury. "There simply mustn't be any fog in this time of the year and in this area! The meteorological conditions aren't adequate for that!"
"I don't like this." Said Moon. "This is too creepy!"
"Jendra, call Gaia. Use a shielded frequency; we better start transmitting everything we find out." Said Yohann, keeping the same course... that will eventually take them right into the middle of the mysterious fogbank. "Also, keep an eye open for the commercial communications. I don't want to have any surprises in there."
"Roger. Initiating data transfer now." Said Jendra.
A couple of minutes later, the Leviathan was flying almost touching the surface of the sea, its sensors at full power. They had reduced the speed, since under those conditions it was pretty dangerous to fly any faster.
"Great..." muttered Alex. "The readings on the Doppler radar are all screwed! I can't make heads or tails of the readings!"
"Regular radar is down too." Commented Mercury. "The only one that works now is the ultrasonic radar. At least it's not affected. Although the GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) system is functioning erratically."
"And the external cameras are of no use too." Said Uranus, grumbling. "I hate when I have to crawl like this!"
"Hold it gang! I'm getting something" Exclaimed Jendra all of a sudden. "I'm putting it on speakers." The message was garbled with static, but it was still discernable. With each phrase, the tension on the cockpit raised dramatically.
"... is fl... WA-1334, come... peat, this is flight... any vessel... area. Our ins... ents are down. Pos... on unknown. Request assis... Repea... is fl... TWA-13... to any..."
"Oh my God... those people! What happened to them?" asked Moon, worried.
"Looks like the magnetic distortion of the area froze their instruments." Offered Alex. "They could be flying in circles and they'd never know until they crash in the ocean!"
"Jendra, do you know where that transmission originated?" asked Yohann, already working on the flight controls.
"Yes. Bearing 221, about three thousand feet up." Answered Jendra.
"Yohann, do you think it's wise to intervene?" inquired Pluto. "Out need for secrecy could be severely compromised if we go there."
Yohann stiffened on his seat, but kept his voice calm. "Pluto, with all due respect... right now, I don't give a damn for secrecy! There's people in need for help, and so far, we're the only ones that can answer their plea." His hands moving at full speed, he adjusted the trajectory. "I'm taking full control of the ship now. We're going there." With a sudden burst of speed, the Leviathan flew in direction of the SOS.
They were almost 700 yards away from the origin of the call, when all of a sudden, the weather cleared. The Leviathan emerged into a perfect circle of calm. Even the water was perfectly calm, not even waves were visible on its surface.
"What the...? What is going on here??" asked Uranus, her mouth open.
"Amazing... there's not even wind blowing here. The calm is absolute in this sector." Muttered Mercury, trying with all her might to find a logical explanation to the strange phenomena.
"Keep calm, everyone." Said the Guardian. "For now, let's concentrate in finding that plane. They shouldn't be too far away."
"I got contact!" exclaimed Alex. "They are right on top of us, and to starboard!"
Before anyone could react, Venus screamed all of a sudden. "WHAT THE HELL IS THAT??"
All eyes focussed on the screen, and there was a collective gasp. In the surface of the unnaturally calm ocean, appeared a perfect circle of light. Suddenly, a thing ray emerged from the center of the circle, striking the plane that the team had gone to assist. On the speakers, the petition of help from the passenger plane changed.
"Mayday, Mayday! This is flight TWA-1334! Our engines have shut down! Our instruments are unresponsive! Mayday, Mayday! We'll attempt an emergency landing at sea! Position unknown! Repeat, Mayday, Mayday! This is flight TWA-1334!...
"Oh my God... what are we going to do??" exclaimed Jupiter.
"Mercury, Alex! Give me full power to shields on top of the ship!" exclaimed Yohann, at the same time he maneuvered the Leviathan.
"Full power, sweetie! But what are you going to do?" asked Alex.
"Something I hope works. Hang on, everybody! This is going to get rough!"
The Leviathan darted towards the rapidly falling passenger jet, carefully maneuvering under it. The more the ship approached, it became increasingly difficult to keep it stable, since the jet stream generated by the plane buffeted the Leviathan. With a sudden jerking, the Leviathan's shields made contact with the jet, partially enveloping the lower part of the later.
"What are you doing??" exclaimed Uranus. "You are going to kill us all!"
"Let's hope it doesn't come to that, Uranus." Said Yohann absentmindedly. "All right, Alex, Mercury, give me all the power you can and directed towards the main thrusters. We have to keep these birds on the air!"
"I really hope you know what you're doing, Yohann." said Mercury, at the same time she fidgeted with the controls on her console. "Reactor at full capacity. Directing auxiliary batteries' power towards the engines. You have everything we got!"
"come on baby... you can do this... don't fail me now!" Yohann began to pull the control stick, while keeping an eye on the altitude indicator. The ship was buffeting like crazy, so much that even the inertial dampeners were unable to cope with it. Currently, it was showing two thousand feet and dropping fast.
1800...
1500...
1000...
800...
500...
400...
300...
300...
350...
400...
500...
"It's working!" exclaimed Uranus. "We're climbing!"
"We're not out of it yet. We are right on top of that energy circle." Commented the Guardian. That was right. They were zooming right on top of that area.
"One problem at a time, please...!" muttered Yohann, who was sweating from the effort. In no time at all, they aircrafts had cleared the area in a steady, albeit slow, climbing.
"Sensors indicate that the jet regained its power!" reported Mercury. "Their engines are working again!"
"About time!" exclaimed Alex. "I wasn't sure we could keep that 737 on our backs for any longer!"
There was a cheer among the Senshi and their companions, followed by a 'uuff!' from Yohann. During the brief celebration, Jendra raised her voice. "Hold it, gang! It seems that some of the passengers saw us approaching. The jet is hailing us!" She then raised the volume of the speakers.
"This is flight TWA-1334 to unidentified craft. Whoever you are... thanks. Repeat, this is flight TWA-1334 to unidentified craft. Please respond."
"What the heck... why not?" Yohann then took the microphone and activated it. "Flight TWA-1334, it was a pleasure. Have a nice landing." He then addressed Jendra. "Cut the communications. Let them deal with that for a while."
"That was a reckless action, you know?" said Pluto, looking intently at Yohann. "Nevertheless, that was the right thing to do. You saved a lot of lives."
"It was nothing. I bet you could have done the same thing." Said Yohann, smiling. "All stations, damage report."
"Nothing here, Yohann." said Mercury. "All systems working fine."
"Same here." Said Jendra.
"Here too." Said Uranus. "I have to admit it. You put this ship together better than how it was."
The Leviathan was already separating from the jet when, suddenly, a second energy beam emerged from the circle, this time hitting the Leviathan. But unlike the previous one, this one continued focussing on the ship.
On the interior of the Leviathan, the lights went out, being replaced by the red emergency lights. A series of alarms began to sound at the same time a series of emergency indicators began to flash in all consoles.
"We lost the shields!" reported Mercury. "Main power is dropping fast! Switching to auxiliary!"
"All communications are jammed!" said Jendra. "I lost contact with Gaia!"
"Controls doesn't respond! Weapons systems are locked!" said Uranus, fighting with her controls.
"That was a close one!" said Alex, who had downloaded into Yohann's armor. "Main computer is down! It almost got me there!"
"I lost all thrusters! Graviton engines down! I can't control it!" exclaimed Yohann. "We're going down!"
The Leviathan, all power gone, became a dead weight in the air, but instead of falling in a straight line, it was dragged by the strange ray towards the glowing circle. In a matter of seconds, the ship hit the water and was rapidly underwater. As soon as the shock waves subsided, the mysterious circle vanished, at the same time the fog bank began to disperse. In the matter of an hour, there was no sign that something had happened.
The Bermuda Triangle had claimed another victim.
TO BE CONTINUED.