Hi Everyone! Here is part two to "The Crystal scouts."
Hope you like it and yes Rini's granddaughter will be coming back to but she will be the last one.
E-mail me with suggestions and feedback to AngelRaye2@aol.com.
Also visit my web site at http://angelrayeschibiscouts.homestead.com/angelraye.html
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Disclaimers: I do not own Sailor Moon. With the exception of Rini I own this generation of Sailor Scouts.
The Crystal Scouts
Part Two: The Mercury Crystal
By Angel Raye
In the future shortly after Ashley returns...
Amy sat looking over her schedule. Every day it got busier. When Ariel and the other Cosmic Scouts were children her schedule had been much lighter. But then they had children and their children had children. Amy was grateful that Ariel had followed in her footsteps and became a doctor. Madelyn also became a doctor so Amy had plenty of help now.
"Hello Mom," Ariel came walking in wearing her lab coat.
Amy smiled at her daughter. "How did it go today," she asked.
"Crazy," Ariel muttered. "All of Violet's kids have the flu right now. Poor Violet is beside herself right now. She is so tired."
"I hope she is going to get some rest," Amy pointed out.
"She is," Ariel replied. "Daisy promised to keep an eye on her grandchildren so that Violet could get some rest."
"I sent for Marina a little while ago," Amy informed her. "But she has not arrived yet."
"She just called me on the communicator and she is on her way," Ariel replied. Her daughter Marina did not follow the Mizuno tradition and become a doctor. Instead she became a lawyer. She was the lawyer for the Crystal Palace. Now that there were so many people at the palace Marina was always busy with legal work.
The door opened and Marina also known as Sailor Elysian Mercury walked in. She was dressed in a business suit and her dark blue hair was pulled back in a French twist. She sat right down. "Sorry Mother and Grandma," she stated. "I got slammed with a stack of paper work at the last minute."
"It's okay Marina," Ariel replied. She turned to Amy. "So what is this meeting about?"
"You know that Ashley just came back from the past after retrieving the Mars Crystal," Amy stated. "It is now time for Melody to go back and retrieve the Mercury Crystal."
"I knew this was coming," Marina sighed. "I hate to let her go. She is such a huge help with her younger brother and sister."
"I remember now when she came back," Ariel recalled. "She was always trying to take care of me and I did not know who she was."
"You were only six," Amy reminded her. "Melody is now nine so yes she will be older than you will be when she goes back."
"Do we need to get permission from their majesties and the Venus Scouts," asked Marina.
"Yes they are waiting for us," Amy replied. She pulled out her transformation pen. Ariel and Marina did the same. They all transformed and headed to the throne room.
Elysian Venus was grumbling. She was not happy to be at another meeting. Her mother had agreed to keep the kids tonight so that she could have a romantic evening with her husband. Now Mercury had called a meeting and since she was the leader of the Elysian Scouts she had to attend.
"Lighten up Celine," Cosmic Venus ordered. "You are such a sourpuss."
"At least I take my life seriously unlike some people," snapped Elysian Venus. Cosmic Venus glared at her daughter.
"Cool it you too," Venus ordered. "Can't you two go for two minutes without arguing?"
"Sorry Mother," Cosmic Venus sighed. She sat down and looked over some paperwork she had.
"I must say Venus I do not envy you at all," Rini stated. "It must be tough being in charge of all the Scouts and trying to keep these two in line."
Venus was about to retort when the Mercury Scouts, Sailor Mercury, Sailor Cosmic Mercury and Sailor Elysian Mercury all came in.
"Thank you for meeting with us your Majesties and Venus Scouts," Mercury bowed in front of them. Her daughter and granddaughter did the same.
"Always Amy," Serenity smiled. "What can we do for you?"
"Luna detected the aura of Mercury in my great-granddaughter Melody," Mercury replied. "We are here to request that she be allowed to go to the past and retrieve the Mercury Crystal."
"Nani," shouted Elysian Venus jumping up. "Not another one."
"Elysian Venus," Chelsea sternly demanded. Elysian Venus sat back down.
"I know you will give Melody full instructions on what to do and how she cannot reveal anything," Serenity stated. "But I trust her because she is such a mature child."
"We will give her a full briefing," Cosmic Mercury promised.
"Your Majesties," Elysian Mercury stepped forward. "I know Ashley has already been back. Even though Melody is older and more responsible I would feel better if there was some way to watch over her."
"We understand," Chelsea replied. "I will feel the same way when it's Rayna's turn. Don't worry. I will provide Elysian Venus with the orb she needs so she can watch over her."
"Nani," Elysian Venus shrieked again. "Do I have to watch over all the Crystal Scouts when they go back?"
"They will be your responsibility when they all become Scouts," Venus reminded her granddaughter. "Just like the Cosmic Scouts were my responsibility when they became Chibi Scouts."
Elysian Venus grumbled. She hated being piled on with all these responsibilities. Everyone ignored her.
"Very well Mercury scouts," Serenity stated. "Be sure to have her report to Sailor Venus for complete instructions."
"Thank you your Majesties," Mercury replied as she and the other Mercury Scouts bowed. They left the room.
"Elysian Mercury go and get Melody," Cosmic Mercury told her daughter. "Mom and I will be waiting."
"Very well," Elysian Mercury headed off in search of her daughter.
Melody Mizuno sat staring at the book in front of her. She knew she was supposed to read it for school but unlike her mother, grandmother and great-grandmother Melody was not a bookworm. She did well in school and had a high IQ but she preferred to do other things besides study.
She reached down and picked up a stuffed animal that belonged to her three-year-old sister, Ami. She also found a game belonging to her seven-year-old brother Ryo. "Those kids never pick up their toys," she thought to herself. Melody was so deep in thought that she did not even hear her mother come in.
"What's on your mind Melody," asked Marina.
"Mom," gasped Melody. "I wasn't expecting you home so soon."
"Actually I just came to get you," Marina smiled at her oldest child. "Your grandmother and great-grandmother wish to see you."
"About what Mom," asked Melody. She pushed her glasses back up her nose and ran her fingers through her chin length midnight blue hair.
"That is something we will discuss when we get there," Marina replied as she placed her hand on Melody's cheek. "Let's go."
Melody obediently followed her mother.
Amy noticed that Ariel was very quiet. "What's on your mind Darling," she asked.
"I was just remembering now when Melody came back," Ariel sighed. "I did not know who she was. I got so annoyed with her for trying to baby me."
"Well you were very babied," Amy recalled as she fondly remembered that time when Ariel was only six. Since Ariel had been the youngest of her generation of Scouts no one had wanted to see her grow. Back then Ariel could be mature one minute and babyish the next.
"I know but I wanted you to be the one to do that not her," Ariel replied. "It wasn't until we sent Ashley back to get the Mars Crystal that I was able to make the connection."
"All of us decided that we did not want your girls to know anything about your future," Amy explained. "We had all found way to much about our futures when you girls visited us in the 20th century. Even though we were thrilled to know about you we did not get to experience the joy of surprise. We wanted all of you to be able to experience it."
"I see," Ariel murmured. Whatever else was popping into her mind disappeared when Marina and Melody entered.
"Grandma, great-grandma," Melody smiled in delight.
"Hi Darling," Amy took the little girl into her arms and hugged her. Melody went over to Ariel and hugged her next.
"Mom said you both wanted to see me,"
"Yes," Amy replied. "You are aware that Ashley just returned from the past with the Mars Crystal."
"Yes," Melody replied. "So she is going to be the next Sailor Scout of Mars."
"That's right," Ariel nodded her head. "Luna and Artemis scanned you and you are going to be the next Scout of Mercury."
"I thought so," Melody murmured.
"You did," asked Marina.
"Yes," Melody replied. "Ami is too young and Ryo is a boy so that left me since Grandma never had any more children." She turned to Ariel. "Why didn't you Grandma?"
Ariel smiled. She knew the price for having more children. All of the Scouts had warned the Cosmic Scouts about it but only Ariel took heed and stopped at one child while the other Cosmic Scouts had more then one. All of them were now watching, as those children who did not become Scouts grow older. Daisy had ended up with six children. Her youngest was now seventeen. "I can still have more Melody," Ariel told her. "One thing about being a Sailor Scout is that you will always be able to have children."
"Are you ready to go back to the past," Amy asked.
"Yes Great-grandma," Melody replied.
"There is something you should know," Ariel suddenly said. "My past self will be younger than you when you go back. You should be prepared for that."
"I am used to that Grandma," Melody smiled.
"Your mother and Sailor Venus will give you your instructions," Amy stated. She reached down and gave her great-granddaughter a kiss. "Good luck. We will be waiting for you when you get back."
"I won't let you down," Melody promised as she accepted a kiss from Ariel. She left with Marina.
Ariel closed her eyes and sent out a thought. "Best of luck my darling."
In another realm a woman approached her mistress. "You wanted to see me Lady Daphne," she asked.
"Yes Shimura," Lady Daphne replied. "As you know Tania failed to destroy the Crystal Scout of Mars. The Crystal Scout of Mercury is going to go back to the past to retrieve her planet crystal. You must destroy her."
"I won't let you down," Shimura promised as she bowed before her. She left to fulfill her mission.
Lady Daphne gazed at an image of Melody. "Watch out child," she laughed. "You're life is about to end."
During the time of the Chibi Scouts...
"What a glorious day this is," Lita exclaimed as she and Daisy returned to the palace.
"I had fun today Mom," Daisy stated.
"So did I Darling," Lita replied as she gave her daughter a hug. "And if you want you can have Maggie spend the night tonight since it isn't a school night."
"Yippee," Daisy squealed as she jumped up and down. "Can I tell her now?"
"Of course," laughed Lita. Daisy took off running toward the palace entrance. Suddenly she heard a sound coming from the bushes. She stopped in her tracks.
"Mom," she shouted.
Lita came running up to her. "What is it Daisy," she asked.
"There's someone in the bushes," Daisy whispered.
Lita quickly pushed Daisy behind her. "Come put whoever you are," she demanded. She was surprised when a young girl of about nine stepped out. She was thin with midnight blue hair which was cut in a chin length bob. Glasses rested on her blue eyes.
"I'm sorry," she stated nervously. "I didn't want to scare anyone."
"It's okay," Lita replied relaxing her guard. "Who are you?"
"My name is Melody," the child replied. "I am here from the future."
"Another one," Daisy gasped.
"So Amy what did you find out," asked Serenity as she and the Scouts meet later.
"She is definitely from the future and she seems to be related to me," Amy replied.
"Could she be your great-granddaughter," asked Raye as she remembered Ashley's recent visit.
"Possibly but she wouldn't say," Amy answered. "She will be staying with me."
"Are we going to get all of these kids," asked Haruka in an annoyed voice."
"We don't know," Mina replied. "It would seem that these kids were told to keep their mouths shut."
"What concerns me is that someone tried to kill Ashley while she was here," Hotaru pointed out. "It's possible that someone might try and come after Melody too."
"We'll just have to be on our guard and watch over her," Serenity pointed out. "In the meantime let's continue to keep this information from the children and the Knights."
"Right," everyone nodded in agreement.
"Thank you for letting me stay here Aunt Amy," Melody stated politely.
"I'm glad to have you," Amy smiled at her young guest. "My little Ariel should be in our quarters now. I will introduce you to her."
"Can't wait to meet her," Melody replied. She wished she could reveal to Amy who she was right now but she couldn't.
"Here we are," Amy announced as she opened the door to her quarters. Melody followed her inside.
"Mommy," Ariel ran out and jumped into Amy's arms.
"Hi Darling," Amy picked the little girl up and hugged her. "There's someone I would like you to meet." Ariel looked down at Melody. "This is Melody and she will be staying with us for a while."
"Hi Ariel," Melody said. Ariel shyly rested her head on Amy's shoulder. "Oh grandma you are adorable."
"Ariel where are your manners," Amy asked.
"Hi," Ariel whispered softly. She then reached over and whispered in Amy's ear, "Can I go play with Madelyn?"
"Not now Darling," Amy replied. "I would like you to show Melody your room. Then you need to get ready for dinner since we are going to the palace-dining hall tonight. You'll see Madelyn there."
Ariel pouted, "All right." She slid down from Amy's arms and walked up to Melody. "Come on I'll show you my room." Melody followed her grandmother into the room. It was a good size room with two twin beds. A blue kitten was sleeping on one of the beds. "Moonbeam," Ariel called.
Moonbeam woke up and gave an enormous yawn. "What is it Ariel," he asked.
"This is Melody," Ariel told him as she picked him up.
"Please to meet you Melody," Moonbeam stated.
"Pleased to meet you too," Melody replied. "You are so cute as a kitten Moonbeam. You're all grown up where I come from."
Ariel sat down on one of the beds. "So who are you," she asked. "Why are you here?"
"I can't tell you that right now," Melody replied. "But I hope you and I can be friends."
"Girls," Amy poked her head in. "It's time to get ready for dinner now. Ariel do you have a clean dress to wear?"
"Yes Mommy," Ariel called. She ran to the closet and pulled out a white dress with blue flowers all over it. Melody reached into her bag and pulled out one of her best dresses. She quickly changed and watched as Ariel put hers on. She ran over to her. "Here I'll do your buttons for you," she offered.
"No," Ariel snapped jerking away from Melody. "I can do it." Ariel struggled but managed to get her dress buttoned. Once the girls were dressed they ran to meet Amy and Greg.
"So who is she," Madelyn asked Ariel at dinner that night.
"I don't know," Ariel replied. "She seems nice but..."
"But what," Madelyn prodded.
"She tried to act like Mommy when we were getting ready," Ariel muttered. "I don't want her to act like Mommy."
"Maybe she will leave you alone," Madelyn suggested.
"Maybe," Ariel sighed. She gazed down at her dress and saw that she got some food on it.
"Here Ariel let's clean you up," Melody came over with a napkin. She started to try wiping the food off of Ariel's dress.
"Don't," Ariel shouted as she pushed Melody away. "You're not Mommy."
"Sorry," moaned Melody. "I am really sorry grandma. You are just so little and cute. Just like my little brother and sister."
Maggie came over and pulled Melody away. "Why don't you come with me and Daisy for a while," she suggested. "You don't have to be a babysitter."
Melody sighed and followed Maggie. Ariel glared after her and took a sip of her juice. The juice spilled down her front.
"Mommy, who is Melody," Ariel asked sleepily later on. She was curled up in Amy's lap right now. Amy had given her a bath and Ariel had asked to be rocked in the rocking chair. Amy had a feeling that Ariel was a little unsettled about their young visitor.
"She is just someone who needs to stay with us for a while Darling," Amy replied. "You might say she is a distant relative."
"She is trying to be like you," Ariel pouted. "I don't want her too."
"Hush Darling," Amy whispered. "Get some sleep now and don't worry about Melody." Amy continued rocking and Ariel got lulled off to sleep.
"What is taking Aunt Amy so long Uncle Greg," Melody asked.
"It can take a while sometimes to get Ariel calmed down enough to go to sleep," Greg replied. "And there are times when Ariel wants her mother to stay with her until she goes to sleep. It looks like tonight is one of those nights."
Melody got up and went into Ariel's room. She saw Amy sitting in the rocking chair. Ariel was asleep in her lap. "Hi Melody," she whispered. "She just went to sleep." She got up and carried Ariel over to the bed. Melody couldn't resist. She tucked the blankets around Ariel when Amy laid her down. "You're very good with children aren't you," Amy asked.
Melody flushed. "I help my mom out a lot," she murmured.
"Really," Amy asked. "My goodness there are more?" She went over and picked up the stained dress. "I swear I may have a child with a high IQ but she is so messy when she eats." Melody giggled. She had heard stories about how messy her grandmother was. "That amuses you," Amy commented and Melody nodded. "Well I just hope she outgrows it."
"Don't worry great-grandma, she does," Melody thought.
Amy smiled down at her young guest. "I think maybe you should start getting ready for bed now," she stated. "It is getting late and I'm sure you have had a busy day."
"That I have," Melody admitted. She gave Amy a kiss and got ready for bed.
Ariel was running away from the youma that was after her. The other Chibi Scouts were trying to protect her but they were failing. The youma seemed intent on getting her. Ariel continued running when she tripped and fell. She looked up and saw the youma standing right over her. Ariel was too scared to move. The youma brought up a weapon and crashed it right down on Ariel.
Ariel sat up in her bed screaming. It had only been a nightmare but it seemed so real. She could still see the youma standing over her getting ready to attack her.
Melody climbed out of bed and rushed over to Ariel. "It's okay Ariel," she stated. "It's only a dream."
"Get away," Ariel screamed pushing Melody away. "MOMMY!"
Amy flew into the room with Greg right behind her. She sat down on the bed and gathered Ariel into her arms. "It's okay Darling," she soothed as Ariel clung to her. "Mommy's here."
"Youmas were after me," Ariel sobbed. "They were trying to kill me."
"It was just a bad dream," Amy assured her as she carried Ariel over to the rocking chair. She began to rock gently in an attempt to calm Ariel down.
Melody sat and watched helplessly. She so badly wanted to help. She felt a hand on her shoulder and looked up. It was Greg. He motioned her to follow him. Melody followed Greg into the kitchen. He poured her a glass of milk. "Don't take it too personally," Greg told Melody. "When Ariel has nightmares Amy is the only one who can comfort her. When Amy is away I just have to hope that Ariel will have good nights."
"She has been pushing me away whenever I try to help her," Melody sighed.
"Ariel can be mature one minute and babyish the next," Greg replied. "When she is babyish only Amy will do. She also doesn't know you and Ariel has always been a little shy. Just give her a few days."
"I will," Melody muttered.
Amy came into the kitchen. "She fell back asleep," she reported. "Hopefully she'll be okay for the rest of the night."
"I guess we will see," Greg stated.
Amy placed a hand on Melody's shoulder. "You should get to sleep now," she suggested. "It's late."
"Good night," Melody got up and went back into Ariel's room. Ariel was curled up under her blankets, clutching a stuffed animal to her chest. Moonbeam was curled up asleep beside her. Melody walked over and kissed Ariel on the cheek. "Goodnight Grandma I love you," she whispered.
In the palace garden Shimura sat in the tree and watched for her target. She was going to try a different tactic than Tania. She watched as the children played. "Where is my target," she asked herself.
Melody came out with Maggie and Daisy. "Ah hello Crystal Scout of Mercury," she thought. "Hang tight. In a few minutes you will be wiped out of existence."
Ariel came running out with Madelyn right behind her. Ariel had a hat resting on her head. "Perfect," Shimura thought to herself. "If I destroy her not only will Crystal Scout of Mercury cease to exist but also the Elysian Scout of Mercury."
Ariel had just sat down to make a daisy chain with Madelyn when a sudden gust of wind blew her hat off. "Oh no," she cried. "I have to go get i. Mommy told me to be careful with it if I wore it outside."
"You'd better get it then," Madelyn called.
Ariel chased after her hat. It blew away over the palace gates. "Oh no," she wailed. She went through the gate and saw it landing on the ground. Ariel dashed over to get it. "Got it," she proclaimed as she picked it up.
"And I have got you," Shimura shouted as she jumped out in front of the startled little girl.
"Who are you," Ariel gasped.
"Never mind that," Shimura grabbed Ariel. "Get ready to be destroyed." Ariel let out a piercing scream.
"Did you hear that," Madelyn asked Maggie, Daisy and Melody.
"Yes we had better go and see," Daisy replied. The four girls ran over. They saw a woman attacking Ariel.
"Ariel," Melody shouted.
"We had better transform," Maggie stated. She turned to Melody. "Go somewhere safe." Melody nodded and ran back through the gate. Maggie hit her communicator. "We need scout power. Ariel's being attacked!" Various voices responded. The others got out their transformation pens.
"JUPITER POWER MAKE UP!"
"PLUTO POWER MAKE UP!"
"SATURN POWER MAKE UP!"
The three girls transformed and ran forward. "Put her down," shouted Chibi Jupiter in fury.
"And what are you girls doing here," asked Shimura annoyed at this interference.
"Protecting one of our own," Chibi Pluto replied.
"Well I am going to destroy her," Shimura held up her hand. The fingers turned into knives. Ariel screamed as she saw that the knives were aiming for her neck.
"DESTRUCTIVE RAY!" Chibi Saturn's attack flew out and hit Shimura. She screamed and dropped Ariel to the ground.
"Why you little brats," she shouted and she powered up. A shimmering wave of energy came flying out and it hit the Chibi Scouts and paralyzed them.
"I can't move," gasped Chibi Jupiter.
"Perfect," Shimura reached for Ariel who was also paralyzed.
"MARS FIRESTORM!"
"VENUS BEAUTIFUL SHOCKWAVE!"
"TIDAL WAVE!"
"EARTHQUAKE TREMORS!"
The onslaught of attacks knocked Shimura back. Cosmic Moon dove forward and scooped Ariel up in her arms. Ariel gave a strangled cry of terror before passing out.
"How dare you attack a small child," shouted Cosmic Moon as she handed the unconscience Ariel to Chibi Jupiter. She pulled out her scepter. "I am Sailor Cosmic Moon and in the name of the moon I will punish you."
"I won't waste my time," snarled Shimura. "But I will be back." With that she vanished just as the Scouts came running out.
"Is everyone all right," asked Venus.
"What happened," asked Mars as Mercury took her unconscience child from Chibi Jupiter.
"We're not sure," Chibi Pluto replied.
Amy sat by her daughter in the hospital room. Ariel was still out cold. Amy gently ran a hand through Ariel's short hair. Amy had thoroughly checked her out and saw no injury. Ariel was just out from shock. Moonbeam was curled up next to his young mistress. "I hope she wakes up soon," he stated.
"She will," Amy gently rubbed behind Moonbeam's ears. "Just give her some time."
"Aunt Amy," Melody came in. "Is she going to be all right?"
"She'll be fine Melody," Amy placed a reassuring hand on the child's shoulder.
"I wish I could have helped but I am not a Sailor Scout yet," Melody moaned.
"Try not to worry about it," Amy assured her.
Serenity came walking in with Sailor Pluto. "How is she Amy," asked Serenity.
"She's fine," Amy smiled. "She just hasn't awakened yet."
"If we could have a word with you," Pluto requested.
"Of course," Amy stood up. She turned to Melody. "Stay with her and let me know when she wakes up."
"Of course," Melody replied. She watched as the adults left the room. She then turned to Ariel and gently kissed her on the cheek. "I am so sorry grandma," she whispered. "All this is my fault."
"So what do you need to see me about," asked Amy as she led Serenity and Pluto into her office.
"I don't normally like to reveal the future but in this case it's necessary," Pluto replied. "This person who attacked Ariel is trying to disrupt the timeline."
"How so," asked Amy.
"Someone is trying to prevent the Crystal Scouts from finding their planet crystals," Pluto explained. "That is why Ashley was attacked when she was here. Now Melody is here but Ariel is the target."
"I get it," Amy exclaimed in horror. "If Ariel is killed then both Marina and Melody will cease to exist."
"Exactly," Pluto replied.
"We have to protect Ariel," Serenity added.
"You don't have to tell me that," Amy declared. She was furious that someone would try to kill her daughter in order to disrupt the timeline.
"We'll keep an eye on her," Pluto promised. "Serenity is going to alert the other Scouts. Ariel will not be harmed."
"Thank you," Amy replied gratefully.
Melody sat by Ariel hoping she would wake up soon. She hated to think that her grandmother was in danger. "If only I could protect you grandma," Melody thought to herself. "You didn't tell me you were so little and cute."
Ariel's eyes fluttered open. She looked at Melody. "Melody," she whispered.
"Hi Ariel," Melody's face lit up. "I am glad you are okay."
"Where's Mommy," Ariel murmured as she sat up.
"She is talking with the queen and Pluto right now," Melody replied. She reached over and pushed Ariel's hair out of her face. Ariel jerked away. She saw Moonbeam and reached down and picked him up. He purred while she rubbed his chin.
"I want Mommy," she stated flatly.
Melody was about to protest because she badly wanted to take care of Ariel. Then she remembered what Greg had told her. "Okay," she said softly. "I'll go and get her."
At that moment Amy came walking in. "Mommy," Ariel shrieked.
"Ariel darling you're awake," Amy cried as she dashed over to the bed. She pulled Ariel into her arms. "How are you baby?"
"I'm okay," Ariel replied as she snuggled into Amy's arms. "What happened?"
Amy sighed and lifted Ariel up. "Sweetie there is something I need to tell you."
"Does she have to be here," Ariel scowled as she pointed to Melody. "I am tired of her trying to be like you."
"I'm sorry," Melody whispered. "I just want to help."
Amy walked over and placed a comforting hand on Melody's shoulder. "If you could let me talk to Ariel alone," she requested. "I'll see you in a while."
Melody nodded her head and left Amy's office. Deciding she needed a little fresh air she walked outside to the palace garden. She found the palace pond and sat down. Melody remembered Cosmic Mars telling her that she loved to sit here all the time.
"Stop meddling," she heard a stern voice say behind her. Melody turned and saw a very annoyed Celine standing behind her.
"Aunt Celine," she gasped. "What are you doing here?"
"I have the unfortunate job of watching over you kids when you go back for your crystals," Celine replied. "I have enough to do right now and do not want to have to come back to the past to deal with you kids. I thought you would have been no problem."
I haven't caused any trouble," Melody protested.
"No but you have not been doing what you're supposed to do either," Celine pointed out. "All you are doing is annoying your grandmother by trying to mother her."
"I wasn't aware that was a crime," Melody muttered.
"It isn't but you are supposed to be looking for the Mercury Crystal," Celine snapped. "Stop trying to mother Ariel. She has a mother who is very capable of looking after her."
"But she's so cute," Melody sighed.
Celine gave Melody a hard stare. "That's not the point," she stated. "You are here to look for the Mercury Crystal and that is it. "Do what you are supposed to do and then get back home."
"Yes Ma'am," Melody glared at Celine. The woman nodded her head and held up the time key. She disappeared. "I wonder how she ever got married," Melody grumbled.
"Mommy who is Melody," Ariel asked. "Why is she here and why is she trying to be like you?" She and Amy had gone back to their quarters and right now Amy was on the couch with Ariel curled up in her lap.
"She's a distant relative," Amy replied. "I am not sure why she is here. As for mothering you Melody is just a very mature child who just wants to help out."
"Well I don't want to try and be like you," Ariel griped.
"Ariel I know you are a little frustrated right now but I want you to be nice to her," Amy stated. "She is a long way from her mother right now and she needs some understanding. In the meantime you understand that you cannot leave the palace without an adult."
"Yes Mommy," Ariel sighed gustily.
At that moment Melody came walking in. She looked a bit steamed. "Are you okay Melody," Amy asked in concern.
"I'm okay," Melody replied. How she wished she could tell Amy about Celine's visit but she couldn't. "Stupid timeline."
Amy was not convinced but she decided not to press the issue. "I think we need to start getting ready for dinner now girls," she softly said. Ariel and Melody both nodded and left the room.
"Ariel," Melody said that night after dinner. The two girls were in Ariel's room. Ariel was waiting for Amy to start getting her ready for bed. "Can I ask you something?"
"Sure," Ariel replied.
"May I see your Mercury wand," Melody asked.
Ariel frowned but she got out her wand and passed it to Melody. Melody took it and studied it closely. "Is it some kind of crystal," she asked next.
"I don't think so," Ariel replied. "Why?"
"Just wondering," Melody sighed.
"Hi girls," Amy came walking in. She turned to Ariel. "Let's get you into the tub now."
"Okay Mommy," Ariel hopped down off the bed. Hand in hand she and Amy left the room.
Melody continued to study the transformation wand. "Ashley said she found the Mars Crystal in Annika's tears," Melody whispered. "But I don't know where to find the Mercury Crystal."
"What was that honey," asked Greg as he and Moonbeam came into the room.
"Oh nothing," Melody replied. "I was just looking at Ariel's transformation pen."
"Those things are quite remarkable," Greg agreed. "I don't really like the idea of my little girl out there fighting but she does a good job of it."
"And one day she will be a superb Sailor Scout," Moonbeam added.
"She will," Melody thought with pride.
A few days later Ariel was very grumpy. She was tired of having an adult around her at all times. "So what if someone attacked me the other day," she grumbled to Madelyn. "I'm a Sailor Scout too. I can take care of myself."
"Just wait until you become a mother," Lita stated. She had been assigned to keep and eye on Ariel for the moment. All of the Scouts were rotating times. "When your child gets attacked you will do whatever it takes to protect her."
"Bah," Ariel grumbled. She turned and narrowed her eyes at Lita. "I am going to ditch you in a few minutes Aunt Lita."
Melody was walking around with Annika outside. She found that Annika was pleasant to be with. "She's always sweet," Melody told herself. "Except for Grandma she is my favorite Cosmic Scout."
"Annika," Melody said. "What's it like being a Sailor Scout?"
"It can be exciting," Annika replied. "But it can also be scary. I was chosen to be a host for the fairy of friendship and that put me in a lot of danger since I was not allowed to tell anyone."
"I remember reading about that in the history books," Melody thought to herself.
"Look," Annika suddenly cried as she pointed it. Melody looked and saw Ariel running out the gate.
"I thought she was supposed to be with an adult all the time," Melody exclaimed.
"She is," Annika replied. "I have a bad feeling about this. You go and tell Aunt Amy. I am going to follow her."
"All right," Melody muttered and she took off toward the palace. Annika followed Ariel.
Ariel knew she would be in for a spanking when her mother got to her but she didn't care. She was tired of having an adult with her all the time. She had grabbed a handful of dirt and thrown it in Lita's eyes. While Lita was trying to get the dirt out Ariel took off. Madelyn did not follow her apparently deciding it would be best to help Lita and stay out of trouble.
"Stupid," muttered Ariel. "I'm a Chibi Scout I can take care of myself."
"We'll see about that," a voice behind her stated. Ariel turned and saw Shimura standing behind her.
"You," she shouted and she pulled out her transformation pen.
"I don't think so," Shimura threw a blast of energy at Ariel. The pen was hurled out of her hand and landed in some bushes nearby.
"Oh no," Ariel wailed as she realized she could not transform.
"Now to finish you off," laughed Shimura. She sent out another blast of energy. It engulfed Ariel. She let out a scream of pain. She found that she could not move. "Now little princess of Mercury," Shimura laughed. "We will just let that energy drain you of your life force. Once that is done then you will die."
"MARS FIRESTORM!" The ball of fire flew out and hit Shimura. The blast of energy disappeared. Ariel collapsed to the ground. Chibi Mars stood in front of her. "How dare you hurt my friend," she shouted. "I am the Chibi Scout of fire and in the name of Mars I will punish you."
Shimura narrowed her eyes at Chibi Mars. "Out of my way you brat," she snapped. She held up her hand and suddenly Chibi Mars found herself being flung against the wall. She groaned in pain. She started to get up when she realized that a force was holding her in place. "I can't move," she cried.
"Of course not," laughed Shimura. "Now you cannot interfere." She turned back to Ariel and sent out another blast of energy. Ariel screamed in pain. "I will destroy you little princess of Mercury."
Ariel screamed. As she screamed her planet symbol appeared on her forehead. It began to glow.
"MARS FLAME SNIPER!"
"MERCURY AQUA RHAPSODY!"
"VENUS BEAUTIFUL SHOCKWAVE!"
"TIDAL WAVE!"
"DESTRUCTIVE RAY!"
The volley of attacks flew out and hit Shimura disrupting the energy blast. Ariel collapsed to the ground. Chibi Mars found she was able to move. She stumbled over to the group of Scouts and Chibi Scouts and collapsed into Mars's arms.
"I don't know what your agenda is," Cosmic Moon shouted. "But I will no longer let you harm a member of my team."
"Stop interfering," Shimura shouted in rage. She turned back to Ariel but the child was safe in her mother's arms. Jupiter and Venus were standing in front of her protecting her. Shimura started to power up again.
"WORLD SHAKING!"
"DEAD SCREAM!"
Shimura screamed in pain. She was badly weakened from the attacks.
"Now Cosmic Moon," Sailor Neptune ordered.
"Right," Cosmic Moon called. She powered up. "MOON PRINCESS HEALING KISS!" Her attack flew out and destroyed Shimura.
"Is she all right Mama," Chibi Mars anxiously asked as everyone gathered around Ariel who was unconscience in Mercury's arms.
"I will need to get her to the hospital quickly," Mercury stated.
"Look," Chibi Venus shouted. The symbol of Mercury glowed brightly on Ariel's forehead.
"What is this," asked Sailor Venus. "This is unusual."
The glow grew brighter and it began to take shape above Ariel's head. Suddenly a crystal appeared.
Melody sat nervously in Amy's office. She did not know what was going on. She knew that Ariel was seriously injured and was recovering in the hospital wing. Amy had sent for Melody and told her to wait in her office. Melody wondered what this was about.
Amy and Serenity came walking in. Melody jumped up. "How is Ariel," she asked.
"She'll be fine," Amy assured her. "I will need to be back with her in a few minutes. Greg and Moonbeam are with her right now. I'll be spending the night with her here so you mind Greg."
"I will," Melody promised as she pushed her glasses up her nose. "So why did you ask me to come here?"
Serenity held something out. "We figured from Ashley's visit that this is what you are looking for."
Melody saw that Serenity had a crystal in her hand. "It came out of Ariel's planetary symbol on her forehead," Amy explained.
Melody took the crystal from Serenity. She held it in her hand and felt a power build up inside of her. She held up the crystal. "MERCURY CRYSTAL POWER MAKE UP!" Icy ribbons flew all over her and she found herself in a Scout uniform similar to all the Mercury Scout uniforms. Her uniform was an icy blue color with a royal blue bow.
"So you will be the fourth scout of Mercury," Serenity stated.
"Yes," Melody replied. "I am Ariel's granddaughter. I was sent back to the past to retrieve the planet crystal. My mother, grandmother and great-grandmother are waiting for me in the future."
"Melody," Amy knelt down in front of her great granddaughter. "Are there any more coming back?"
"I cannot tell you," Melody replied. "Sailor Venus told me not to reveal more than I have too."
"We understand," Serenity stated and Amy nodded.
"I guess you need to go back now," Amy sighed and Melody nodded.
"I would like to see Ariel first," Melody requested as she powered down.
"Of course," Amy took Melody's hand and led her out of the room.
"Daddy am I in trouble," Ariel nervously asked.
"Why do you ask," Greg asked as he rumpled Ariel's hair.
"Because I threw dirt in Aunt Lita's eyes," Ariel replied.
"You did what," Moonbeam cried in shock.
"Oh that," Greg stated dryly. "Well you can expect a talking to from me and Mommy when you get out and you will be apologizing to Aunt Lita too."
Ariel gave a gusty sigh. She did not know why Shimura had been so bent on killing her but she was relieved to hear that Cosmic Moon had destroyed her.
"How's my girl," asked Amy as she came in with Melody.
"Mommy," Ariel held out her arms and Amy sat down and pulled the child into an embrace.
Melody came over and sat down on the bed. "I am glad you are all right," she whispered.
"Thank you," Ariel replied.
"I have to go home now," Melody stated. "I just wanted to say goodbye."
"Will I ever see you again," Ariel asked.
"I promise," Melody smiled. "I'm sorry I tried to be like your mommy."
"It's okay," Ariel said.
"Can I have a hug," Melody asked. Ariel hesitated for a moment then with Amy's urging reached over and hugged Melody. "I love you grandma."
Amy walked Melody over to the Gates of Time. "I am glad to I got to meet you," Amy stated. "The only regret I have is that I have to wait for so long before I see you again."
"It will only be a few minutes for me," Melody told her. She hugged Amy tightly. "Goodbye Great-grandma."
"Goodbye Melody," Amy whispered. Melody headed over to the time portal and vanished. Amy sighed. It was nice to know that Melody was going to be a part of her life one-day but at least today Amy had her own little girl to take care of. Amy headed back down to the palace hospital. Once she got there she went right to Ariel's room. The child was curled up in Greg's arms with Moonbeam on her lap. "Mommy," Ariel squealed. Amy smiled and she went over to the bed. She pulled Ariel into her arms and held her. She was not ready to entertain the idea that this small child would be a grandmother one-day.
Melody walked through the Time Portal. She saw her mother, grandmother and great-grandmother waiting for her. Mina, Gloria and Celine were also waiting. "Mom," Melody cried as she ran over to them. Marina knelt down and pulled the child into her embrace.
"Hi Darling welcome home," Marina replied.
Melody turned to Ariel. "Grandma you were so cute," she cried.
"That's what everyone tells me," Ariel said as she hugged Melody.
"Welcome home Melody," Amy hugged the child. "We missed you."
"Sailor Chibi Crystal Mercury," Mina stated. Melody turned to her. "Welcome to the team."
"Thank you," Melody bowed before her commanders. She was home and she was a Sailor Scout. It was time to join the team.
Lady Daphne sat in her lair. "So Shimura failed," she grumbled. "Well I will have to see that the other Crystal Scouts never awaken."
End of Part two.
So how do you like it? Please rate and review.
Hope you like it and yes Rini's granddaughter will be coming back to but she will be the last one.
E-mail me with suggestions and feedback to AngelRaye2@aol.com.
Also visit my web site at http://angelrayeschibiscouts.homestead.com/angelraye.html
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Disclaimers: I do not own Sailor Moon. With the exception of Rini I own this generation of Sailor Scouts.
The Crystal Scouts
Part Two: The Mercury Crystal
By Angel Raye
In the future shortly after Ashley returns...
Amy sat looking over her schedule. Every day it got busier. When Ariel and the other Cosmic Scouts were children her schedule had been much lighter. But then they had children and their children had children. Amy was grateful that Ariel had followed in her footsteps and became a doctor. Madelyn also became a doctor so Amy had plenty of help now.
"Hello Mom," Ariel came walking in wearing her lab coat.
Amy smiled at her daughter. "How did it go today," she asked.
"Crazy," Ariel muttered. "All of Violet's kids have the flu right now. Poor Violet is beside herself right now. She is so tired."
"I hope she is going to get some rest," Amy pointed out.
"She is," Ariel replied. "Daisy promised to keep an eye on her grandchildren so that Violet could get some rest."
"I sent for Marina a little while ago," Amy informed her. "But she has not arrived yet."
"She just called me on the communicator and she is on her way," Ariel replied. Her daughter Marina did not follow the Mizuno tradition and become a doctor. Instead she became a lawyer. She was the lawyer for the Crystal Palace. Now that there were so many people at the palace Marina was always busy with legal work.
The door opened and Marina also known as Sailor Elysian Mercury walked in. She was dressed in a business suit and her dark blue hair was pulled back in a French twist. She sat right down. "Sorry Mother and Grandma," she stated. "I got slammed with a stack of paper work at the last minute."
"It's okay Marina," Ariel replied. She turned to Amy. "So what is this meeting about?"
"You know that Ashley just came back from the past after retrieving the Mars Crystal," Amy stated. "It is now time for Melody to go back and retrieve the Mercury Crystal."
"I knew this was coming," Marina sighed. "I hate to let her go. She is such a huge help with her younger brother and sister."
"I remember now when she came back," Ariel recalled. "She was always trying to take care of me and I did not know who she was."
"You were only six," Amy reminded her. "Melody is now nine so yes she will be older than you will be when she goes back."
"Do we need to get permission from their majesties and the Venus Scouts," asked Marina.
"Yes they are waiting for us," Amy replied. She pulled out her transformation pen. Ariel and Marina did the same. They all transformed and headed to the throne room.
Elysian Venus was grumbling. She was not happy to be at another meeting. Her mother had agreed to keep the kids tonight so that she could have a romantic evening with her husband. Now Mercury had called a meeting and since she was the leader of the Elysian Scouts she had to attend.
"Lighten up Celine," Cosmic Venus ordered. "You are such a sourpuss."
"At least I take my life seriously unlike some people," snapped Elysian Venus. Cosmic Venus glared at her daughter.
"Cool it you too," Venus ordered. "Can't you two go for two minutes without arguing?"
"Sorry Mother," Cosmic Venus sighed. She sat down and looked over some paperwork she had.
"I must say Venus I do not envy you at all," Rini stated. "It must be tough being in charge of all the Scouts and trying to keep these two in line."
Venus was about to retort when the Mercury Scouts, Sailor Mercury, Sailor Cosmic Mercury and Sailor Elysian Mercury all came in.
"Thank you for meeting with us your Majesties and Venus Scouts," Mercury bowed in front of them. Her daughter and granddaughter did the same.
"Always Amy," Serenity smiled. "What can we do for you?"
"Luna detected the aura of Mercury in my great-granddaughter Melody," Mercury replied. "We are here to request that she be allowed to go to the past and retrieve the Mercury Crystal."
"Nani," shouted Elysian Venus jumping up. "Not another one."
"Elysian Venus," Chelsea sternly demanded. Elysian Venus sat back down.
"I know you will give Melody full instructions on what to do and how she cannot reveal anything," Serenity stated. "But I trust her because she is such a mature child."
"We will give her a full briefing," Cosmic Mercury promised.
"Your Majesties," Elysian Mercury stepped forward. "I know Ashley has already been back. Even though Melody is older and more responsible I would feel better if there was some way to watch over her."
"We understand," Chelsea replied. "I will feel the same way when it's Rayna's turn. Don't worry. I will provide Elysian Venus with the orb she needs so she can watch over her."
"Nani," Elysian Venus shrieked again. "Do I have to watch over all the Crystal Scouts when they go back?"
"They will be your responsibility when they all become Scouts," Venus reminded her granddaughter. "Just like the Cosmic Scouts were my responsibility when they became Chibi Scouts."
Elysian Venus grumbled. She hated being piled on with all these responsibilities. Everyone ignored her.
"Very well Mercury scouts," Serenity stated. "Be sure to have her report to Sailor Venus for complete instructions."
"Thank you your Majesties," Mercury replied as she and the other Mercury Scouts bowed. They left the room.
"Elysian Mercury go and get Melody," Cosmic Mercury told her daughter. "Mom and I will be waiting."
"Very well," Elysian Mercury headed off in search of her daughter.
Melody Mizuno sat staring at the book in front of her. She knew she was supposed to read it for school but unlike her mother, grandmother and great-grandmother Melody was not a bookworm. She did well in school and had a high IQ but she preferred to do other things besides study.
She reached down and picked up a stuffed animal that belonged to her three-year-old sister, Ami. She also found a game belonging to her seven-year-old brother Ryo. "Those kids never pick up their toys," she thought to herself. Melody was so deep in thought that she did not even hear her mother come in.
"What's on your mind Melody," asked Marina.
"Mom," gasped Melody. "I wasn't expecting you home so soon."
"Actually I just came to get you," Marina smiled at her oldest child. "Your grandmother and great-grandmother wish to see you."
"About what Mom," asked Melody. She pushed her glasses back up her nose and ran her fingers through her chin length midnight blue hair.
"That is something we will discuss when we get there," Marina replied as she placed her hand on Melody's cheek. "Let's go."
Melody obediently followed her mother.
Amy noticed that Ariel was very quiet. "What's on your mind Darling," she asked.
"I was just remembering now when Melody came back," Ariel sighed. "I did not know who she was. I got so annoyed with her for trying to baby me."
"Well you were very babied," Amy recalled as she fondly remembered that time when Ariel was only six. Since Ariel had been the youngest of her generation of Scouts no one had wanted to see her grow. Back then Ariel could be mature one minute and babyish the next.
"I know but I wanted you to be the one to do that not her," Ariel replied. "It wasn't until we sent Ashley back to get the Mars Crystal that I was able to make the connection."
"All of us decided that we did not want your girls to know anything about your future," Amy explained. "We had all found way to much about our futures when you girls visited us in the 20th century. Even though we were thrilled to know about you we did not get to experience the joy of surprise. We wanted all of you to be able to experience it."
"I see," Ariel murmured. Whatever else was popping into her mind disappeared when Marina and Melody entered.
"Grandma, great-grandma," Melody smiled in delight.
"Hi Darling," Amy took the little girl into her arms and hugged her. Melody went over to Ariel and hugged her next.
"Mom said you both wanted to see me,"
"Yes," Amy replied. "You are aware that Ashley just returned from the past with the Mars Crystal."
"Yes," Melody replied. "So she is going to be the next Sailor Scout of Mars."
"That's right," Ariel nodded her head. "Luna and Artemis scanned you and you are going to be the next Scout of Mercury."
"I thought so," Melody murmured.
"You did," asked Marina.
"Yes," Melody replied. "Ami is too young and Ryo is a boy so that left me since Grandma never had any more children." She turned to Ariel. "Why didn't you Grandma?"
Ariel smiled. She knew the price for having more children. All of the Scouts had warned the Cosmic Scouts about it but only Ariel took heed and stopped at one child while the other Cosmic Scouts had more then one. All of them were now watching, as those children who did not become Scouts grow older. Daisy had ended up with six children. Her youngest was now seventeen. "I can still have more Melody," Ariel told her. "One thing about being a Sailor Scout is that you will always be able to have children."
"Are you ready to go back to the past," Amy asked.
"Yes Great-grandma," Melody replied.
"There is something you should know," Ariel suddenly said. "My past self will be younger than you when you go back. You should be prepared for that."
"I am used to that Grandma," Melody smiled.
"Your mother and Sailor Venus will give you your instructions," Amy stated. She reached down and gave her great-granddaughter a kiss. "Good luck. We will be waiting for you when you get back."
"I won't let you down," Melody promised as she accepted a kiss from Ariel. She left with Marina.
Ariel closed her eyes and sent out a thought. "Best of luck my darling."
In another realm a woman approached her mistress. "You wanted to see me Lady Daphne," she asked.
"Yes Shimura," Lady Daphne replied. "As you know Tania failed to destroy the Crystal Scout of Mars. The Crystal Scout of Mercury is going to go back to the past to retrieve her planet crystal. You must destroy her."
"I won't let you down," Shimura promised as she bowed before her. She left to fulfill her mission.
Lady Daphne gazed at an image of Melody. "Watch out child," she laughed. "You're life is about to end."
During the time of the Chibi Scouts...
"What a glorious day this is," Lita exclaimed as she and Daisy returned to the palace.
"I had fun today Mom," Daisy stated.
"So did I Darling," Lita replied as she gave her daughter a hug. "And if you want you can have Maggie spend the night tonight since it isn't a school night."
"Yippee," Daisy squealed as she jumped up and down. "Can I tell her now?"
"Of course," laughed Lita. Daisy took off running toward the palace entrance. Suddenly she heard a sound coming from the bushes. She stopped in her tracks.
"Mom," she shouted.
Lita came running up to her. "What is it Daisy," she asked.
"There's someone in the bushes," Daisy whispered.
Lita quickly pushed Daisy behind her. "Come put whoever you are," she demanded. She was surprised when a young girl of about nine stepped out. She was thin with midnight blue hair which was cut in a chin length bob. Glasses rested on her blue eyes.
"I'm sorry," she stated nervously. "I didn't want to scare anyone."
"It's okay," Lita replied relaxing her guard. "Who are you?"
"My name is Melody," the child replied. "I am here from the future."
"Another one," Daisy gasped.
"So Amy what did you find out," asked Serenity as she and the Scouts meet later.
"She is definitely from the future and she seems to be related to me," Amy replied.
"Could she be your great-granddaughter," asked Raye as she remembered Ashley's recent visit.
"Possibly but she wouldn't say," Amy answered. "She will be staying with me."
"Are we going to get all of these kids," asked Haruka in an annoyed voice."
"We don't know," Mina replied. "It would seem that these kids were told to keep their mouths shut."
"What concerns me is that someone tried to kill Ashley while she was here," Hotaru pointed out. "It's possible that someone might try and come after Melody too."
"We'll just have to be on our guard and watch over her," Serenity pointed out. "In the meantime let's continue to keep this information from the children and the Knights."
"Right," everyone nodded in agreement.
"Thank you for letting me stay here Aunt Amy," Melody stated politely.
"I'm glad to have you," Amy smiled at her young guest. "My little Ariel should be in our quarters now. I will introduce you to her."
"Can't wait to meet her," Melody replied. She wished she could reveal to Amy who she was right now but she couldn't.
"Here we are," Amy announced as she opened the door to her quarters. Melody followed her inside.
"Mommy," Ariel ran out and jumped into Amy's arms.
"Hi Darling," Amy picked the little girl up and hugged her. "There's someone I would like you to meet." Ariel looked down at Melody. "This is Melody and she will be staying with us for a while."
"Hi Ariel," Melody said. Ariel shyly rested her head on Amy's shoulder. "Oh grandma you are adorable."
"Ariel where are your manners," Amy asked.
"Hi," Ariel whispered softly. She then reached over and whispered in Amy's ear, "Can I go play with Madelyn?"
"Not now Darling," Amy replied. "I would like you to show Melody your room. Then you need to get ready for dinner since we are going to the palace-dining hall tonight. You'll see Madelyn there."
Ariel pouted, "All right." She slid down from Amy's arms and walked up to Melody. "Come on I'll show you my room." Melody followed her grandmother into the room. It was a good size room with two twin beds. A blue kitten was sleeping on one of the beds. "Moonbeam," Ariel called.
Moonbeam woke up and gave an enormous yawn. "What is it Ariel," he asked.
"This is Melody," Ariel told him as she picked him up.
"Please to meet you Melody," Moonbeam stated.
"Pleased to meet you too," Melody replied. "You are so cute as a kitten Moonbeam. You're all grown up where I come from."
Ariel sat down on one of the beds. "So who are you," she asked. "Why are you here?"
"I can't tell you that right now," Melody replied. "But I hope you and I can be friends."
"Girls," Amy poked her head in. "It's time to get ready for dinner now. Ariel do you have a clean dress to wear?"
"Yes Mommy," Ariel called. She ran to the closet and pulled out a white dress with blue flowers all over it. Melody reached into her bag and pulled out one of her best dresses. She quickly changed and watched as Ariel put hers on. She ran over to her. "Here I'll do your buttons for you," she offered.
"No," Ariel snapped jerking away from Melody. "I can do it." Ariel struggled but managed to get her dress buttoned. Once the girls were dressed they ran to meet Amy and Greg.
"So who is she," Madelyn asked Ariel at dinner that night.
"I don't know," Ariel replied. "She seems nice but..."
"But what," Madelyn prodded.
"She tried to act like Mommy when we were getting ready," Ariel muttered. "I don't want her to act like Mommy."
"Maybe she will leave you alone," Madelyn suggested.
"Maybe," Ariel sighed. She gazed down at her dress and saw that she got some food on it.
"Here Ariel let's clean you up," Melody came over with a napkin. She started to try wiping the food off of Ariel's dress.
"Don't," Ariel shouted as she pushed Melody away. "You're not Mommy."
"Sorry," moaned Melody. "I am really sorry grandma. You are just so little and cute. Just like my little brother and sister."
Maggie came over and pulled Melody away. "Why don't you come with me and Daisy for a while," she suggested. "You don't have to be a babysitter."
Melody sighed and followed Maggie. Ariel glared after her and took a sip of her juice. The juice spilled down her front.
"Mommy, who is Melody," Ariel asked sleepily later on. She was curled up in Amy's lap right now. Amy had given her a bath and Ariel had asked to be rocked in the rocking chair. Amy had a feeling that Ariel was a little unsettled about their young visitor.
"She is just someone who needs to stay with us for a while Darling," Amy replied. "You might say she is a distant relative."
"She is trying to be like you," Ariel pouted. "I don't want her too."
"Hush Darling," Amy whispered. "Get some sleep now and don't worry about Melody." Amy continued rocking and Ariel got lulled off to sleep.
"What is taking Aunt Amy so long Uncle Greg," Melody asked.
"It can take a while sometimes to get Ariel calmed down enough to go to sleep," Greg replied. "And there are times when Ariel wants her mother to stay with her until she goes to sleep. It looks like tonight is one of those nights."
Melody got up and went into Ariel's room. She saw Amy sitting in the rocking chair. Ariel was asleep in her lap. "Hi Melody," she whispered. "She just went to sleep." She got up and carried Ariel over to the bed. Melody couldn't resist. She tucked the blankets around Ariel when Amy laid her down. "You're very good with children aren't you," Amy asked.
Melody flushed. "I help my mom out a lot," she murmured.
"Really," Amy asked. "My goodness there are more?" She went over and picked up the stained dress. "I swear I may have a child with a high IQ but she is so messy when she eats." Melody giggled. She had heard stories about how messy her grandmother was. "That amuses you," Amy commented and Melody nodded. "Well I just hope she outgrows it."
"Don't worry great-grandma, she does," Melody thought.
Amy smiled down at her young guest. "I think maybe you should start getting ready for bed now," she stated. "It is getting late and I'm sure you have had a busy day."
"That I have," Melody admitted. She gave Amy a kiss and got ready for bed.
Ariel was running away from the youma that was after her. The other Chibi Scouts were trying to protect her but they were failing. The youma seemed intent on getting her. Ariel continued running when she tripped and fell. She looked up and saw the youma standing right over her. Ariel was too scared to move. The youma brought up a weapon and crashed it right down on Ariel.
Ariel sat up in her bed screaming. It had only been a nightmare but it seemed so real. She could still see the youma standing over her getting ready to attack her.
Melody climbed out of bed and rushed over to Ariel. "It's okay Ariel," she stated. "It's only a dream."
"Get away," Ariel screamed pushing Melody away. "MOMMY!"
Amy flew into the room with Greg right behind her. She sat down on the bed and gathered Ariel into her arms. "It's okay Darling," she soothed as Ariel clung to her. "Mommy's here."
"Youmas were after me," Ariel sobbed. "They were trying to kill me."
"It was just a bad dream," Amy assured her as she carried Ariel over to the rocking chair. She began to rock gently in an attempt to calm Ariel down.
Melody sat and watched helplessly. She so badly wanted to help. She felt a hand on her shoulder and looked up. It was Greg. He motioned her to follow him. Melody followed Greg into the kitchen. He poured her a glass of milk. "Don't take it too personally," Greg told Melody. "When Ariel has nightmares Amy is the only one who can comfort her. When Amy is away I just have to hope that Ariel will have good nights."
"She has been pushing me away whenever I try to help her," Melody sighed.
"Ariel can be mature one minute and babyish the next," Greg replied. "When she is babyish only Amy will do. She also doesn't know you and Ariel has always been a little shy. Just give her a few days."
"I will," Melody muttered.
Amy came into the kitchen. "She fell back asleep," she reported. "Hopefully she'll be okay for the rest of the night."
"I guess we will see," Greg stated.
Amy placed a hand on Melody's shoulder. "You should get to sleep now," she suggested. "It's late."
"Good night," Melody got up and went back into Ariel's room. Ariel was curled up under her blankets, clutching a stuffed animal to her chest. Moonbeam was curled up asleep beside her. Melody walked over and kissed Ariel on the cheek. "Goodnight Grandma I love you," she whispered.
In the palace garden Shimura sat in the tree and watched for her target. She was going to try a different tactic than Tania. She watched as the children played. "Where is my target," she asked herself.
Melody came out with Maggie and Daisy. "Ah hello Crystal Scout of Mercury," she thought. "Hang tight. In a few minutes you will be wiped out of existence."
Ariel came running out with Madelyn right behind her. Ariel had a hat resting on her head. "Perfect," Shimura thought to herself. "If I destroy her not only will Crystal Scout of Mercury cease to exist but also the Elysian Scout of Mercury."
Ariel had just sat down to make a daisy chain with Madelyn when a sudden gust of wind blew her hat off. "Oh no," she cried. "I have to go get i. Mommy told me to be careful with it if I wore it outside."
"You'd better get it then," Madelyn called.
Ariel chased after her hat. It blew away over the palace gates. "Oh no," she wailed. She went through the gate and saw it landing on the ground. Ariel dashed over to get it. "Got it," she proclaimed as she picked it up.
"And I have got you," Shimura shouted as she jumped out in front of the startled little girl.
"Who are you," Ariel gasped.
"Never mind that," Shimura grabbed Ariel. "Get ready to be destroyed." Ariel let out a piercing scream.
"Did you hear that," Madelyn asked Maggie, Daisy and Melody.
"Yes we had better go and see," Daisy replied. The four girls ran over. They saw a woman attacking Ariel.
"Ariel," Melody shouted.
"We had better transform," Maggie stated. She turned to Melody. "Go somewhere safe." Melody nodded and ran back through the gate. Maggie hit her communicator. "We need scout power. Ariel's being attacked!" Various voices responded. The others got out their transformation pens.
"JUPITER POWER MAKE UP!"
"PLUTO POWER MAKE UP!"
"SATURN POWER MAKE UP!"
The three girls transformed and ran forward. "Put her down," shouted Chibi Jupiter in fury.
"And what are you girls doing here," asked Shimura annoyed at this interference.
"Protecting one of our own," Chibi Pluto replied.
"Well I am going to destroy her," Shimura held up her hand. The fingers turned into knives. Ariel screamed as she saw that the knives were aiming for her neck.
"DESTRUCTIVE RAY!" Chibi Saturn's attack flew out and hit Shimura. She screamed and dropped Ariel to the ground.
"Why you little brats," she shouted and she powered up. A shimmering wave of energy came flying out and it hit the Chibi Scouts and paralyzed them.
"I can't move," gasped Chibi Jupiter.
"Perfect," Shimura reached for Ariel who was also paralyzed.
"MARS FIRESTORM!"
"VENUS BEAUTIFUL SHOCKWAVE!"
"TIDAL WAVE!"
"EARTHQUAKE TREMORS!"
The onslaught of attacks knocked Shimura back. Cosmic Moon dove forward and scooped Ariel up in her arms. Ariel gave a strangled cry of terror before passing out.
"How dare you attack a small child," shouted Cosmic Moon as she handed the unconscience Ariel to Chibi Jupiter. She pulled out her scepter. "I am Sailor Cosmic Moon and in the name of the moon I will punish you."
"I won't waste my time," snarled Shimura. "But I will be back." With that she vanished just as the Scouts came running out.
"Is everyone all right," asked Venus.
"What happened," asked Mars as Mercury took her unconscience child from Chibi Jupiter.
"We're not sure," Chibi Pluto replied.
Amy sat by her daughter in the hospital room. Ariel was still out cold. Amy gently ran a hand through Ariel's short hair. Amy had thoroughly checked her out and saw no injury. Ariel was just out from shock. Moonbeam was curled up next to his young mistress. "I hope she wakes up soon," he stated.
"She will," Amy gently rubbed behind Moonbeam's ears. "Just give her some time."
"Aunt Amy," Melody came in. "Is she going to be all right?"
"She'll be fine Melody," Amy placed a reassuring hand on the child's shoulder.
"I wish I could have helped but I am not a Sailor Scout yet," Melody moaned.
"Try not to worry about it," Amy assured her.
Serenity came walking in with Sailor Pluto. "How is she Amy," asked Serenity.
"She's fine," Amy smiled. "She just hasn't awakened yet."
"If we could have a word with you," Pluto requested.
"Of course," Amy stood up. She turned to Melody. "Stay with her and let me know when she wakes up."
"Of course," Melody replied. She watched as the adults left the room. She then turned to Ariel and gently kissed her on the cheek. "I am so sorry grandma," she whispered. "All this is my fault."
"So what do you need to see me about," asked Amy as she led Serenity and Pluto into her office.
"I don't normally like to reveal the future but in this case it's necessary," Pluto replied. "This person who attacked Ariel is trying to disrupt the timeline."
"How so," asked Amy.
"Someone is trying to prevent the Crystal Scouts from finding their planet crystals," Pluto explained. "That is why Ashley was attacked when she was here. Now Melody is here but Ariel is the target."
"I get it," Amy exclaimed in horror. "If Ariel is killed then both Marina and Melody will cease to exist."
"Exactly," Pluto replied.
"We have to protect Ariel," Serenity added.
"You don't have to tell me that," Amy declared. She was furious that someone would try to kill her daughter in order to disrupt the timeline.
"We'll keep an eye on her," Pluto promised. "Serenity is going to alert the other Scouts. Ariel will not be harmed."
"Thank you," Amy replied gratefully.
Melody sat by Ariel hoping she would wake up soon. She hated to think that her grandmother was in danger. "If only I could protect you grandma," Melody thought to herself. "You didn't tell me you were so little and cute."
Ariel's eyes fluttered open. She looked at Melody. "Melody," she whispered.
"Hi Ariel," Melody's face lit up. "I am glad you are okay."
"Where's Mommy," Ariel murmured as she sat up.
"She is talking with the queen and Pluto right now," Melody replied. She reached over and pushed Ariel's hair out of her face. Ariel jerked away. She saw Moonbeam and reached down and picked him up. He purred while she rubbed his chin.
"I want Mommy," she stated flatly.
Melody was about to protest because she badly wanted to take care of Ariel. Then she remembered what Greg had told her. "Okay," she said softly. "I'll go and get her."
At that moment Amy came walking in. "Mommy," Ariel shrieked.
"Ariel darling you're awake," Amy cried as she dashed over to the bed. She pulled Ariel into her arms. "How are you baby?"
"I'm okay," Ariel replied as she snuggled into Amy's arms. "What happened?"
Amy sighed and lifted Ariel up. "Sweetie there is something I need to tell you."
"Does she have to be here," Ariel scowled as she pointed to Melody. "I am tired of her trying to be like you."
"I'm sorry," Melody whispered. "I just want to help."
Amy walked over and placed a comforting hand on Melody's shoulder. "If you could let me talk to Ariel alone," she requested. "I'll see you in a while."
Melody nodded her head and left Amy's office. Deciding she needed a little fresh air she walked outside to the palace garden. She found the palace pond and sat down. Melody remembered Cosmic Mars telling her that she loved to sit here all the time.
"Stop meddling," she heard a stern voice say behind her. Melody turned and saw a very annoyed Celine standing behind her.
"Aunt Celine," she gasped. "What are you doing here?"
"I have the unfortunate job of watching over you kids when you go back for your crystals," Celine replied. "I have enough to do right now and do not want to have to come back to the past to deal with you kids. I thought you would have been no problem."
I haven't caused any trouble," Melody protested.
"No but you have not been doing what you're supposed to do either," Celine pointed out. "All you are doing is annoying your grandmother by trying to mother her."
"I wasn't aware that was a crime," Melody muttered.
"It isn't but you are supposed to be looking for the Mercury Crystal," Celine snapped. "Stop trying to mother Ariel. She has a mother who is very capable of looking after her."
"But she's so cute," Melody sighed.
Celine gave Melody a hard stare. "That's not the point," she stated. "You are here to look for the Mercury Crystal and that is it. "Do what you are supposed to do and then get back home."
"Yes Ma'am," Melody glared at Celine. The woman nodded her head and held up the time key. She disappeared. "I wonder how she ever got married," Melody grumbled.
"Mommy who is Melody," Ariel asked. "Why is she here and why is she trying to be like you?" She and Amy had gone back to their quarters and right now Amy was on the couch with Ariel curled up in her lap.
"She's a distant relative," Amy replied. "I am not sure why she is here. As for mothering you Melody is just a very mature child who just wants to help out."
"Well I don't want to try and be like you," Ariel griped.
"Ariel I know you are a little frustrated right now but I want you to be nice to her," Amy stated. "She is a long way from her mother right now and she needs some understanding. In the meantime you understand that you cannot leave the palace without an adult."
"Yes Mommy," Ariel sighed gustily.
At that moment Melody came walking in. She looked a bit steamed. "Are you okay Melody," Amy asked in concern.
"I'm okay," Melody replied. How she wished she could tell Amy about Celine's visit but she couldn't. "Stupid timeline."
Amy was not convinced but she decided not to press the issue. "I think we need to start getting ready for dinner now girls," she softly said. Ariel and Melody both nodded and left the room.
"Ariel," Melody said that night after dinner. The two girls were in Ariel's room. Ariel was waiting for Amy to start getting her ready for bed. "Can I ask you something?"
"Sure," Ariel replied.
"May I see your Mercury wand," Melody asked.
Ariel frowned but she got out her wand and passed it to Melody. Melody took it and studied it closely. "Is it some kind of crystal," she asked next.
"I don't think so," Ariel replied. "Why?"
"Just wondering," Melody sighed.
"Hi girls," Amy came walking in. She turned to Ariel. "Let's get you into the tub now."
"Okay Mommy," Ariel hopped down off the bed. Hand in hand she and Amy left the room.
Melody continued to study the transformation wand. "Ashley said she found the Mars Crystal in Annika's tears," Melody whispered. "But I don't know where to find the Mercury Crystal."
"What was that honey," asked Greg as he and Moonbeam came into the room.
"Oh nothing," Melody replied. "I was just looking at Ariel's transformation pen."
"Those things are quite remarkable," Greg agreed. "I don't really like the idea of my little girl out there fighting but she does a good job of it."
"And one day she will be a superb Sailor Scout," Moonbeam added.
"She will," Melody thought with pride.
A few days later Ariel was very grumpy. She was tired of having an adult around her at all times. "So what if someone attacked me the other day," she grumbled to Madelyn. "I'm a Sailor Scout too. I can take care of myself."
"Just wait until you become a mother," Lita stated. She had been assigned to keep and eye on Ariel for the moment. All of the Scouts were rotating times. "When your child gets attacked you will do whatever it takes to protect her."
"Bah," Ariel grumbled. She turned and narrowed her eyes at Lita. "I am going to ditch you in a few minutes Aunt Lita."
Melody was walking around with Annika outside. She found that Annika was pleasant to be with. "She's always sweet," Melody told herself. "Except for Grandma she is my favorite Cosmic Scout."
"Annika," Melody said. "What's it like being a Sailor Scout?"
"It can be exciting," Annika replied. "But it can also be scary. I was chosen to be a host for the fairy of friendship and that put me in a lot of danger since I was not allowed to tell anyone."
"I remember reading about that in the history books," Melody thought to herself.
"Look," Annika suddenly cried as she pointed it. Melody looked and saw Ariel running out the gate.
"I thought she was supposed to be with an adult all the time," Melody exclaimed.
"She is," Annika replied. "I have a bad feeling about this. You go and tell Aunt Amy. I am going to follow her."
"All right," Melody muttered and she took off toward the palace. Annika followed Ariel.
Ariel knew she would be in for a spanking when her mother got to her but she didn't care. She was tired of having an adult with her all the time. She had grabbed a handful of dirt and thrown it in Lita's eyes. While Lita was trying to get the dirt out Ariel took off. Madelyn did not follow her apparently deciding it would be best to help Lita and stay out of trouble.
"Stupid," muttered Ariel. "I'm a Chibi Scout I can take care of myself."
"We'll see about that," a voice behind her stated. Ariel turned and saw Shimura standing behind her.
"You," she shouted and she pulled out her transformation pen.
"I don't think so," Shimura threw a blast of energy at Ariel. The pen was hurled out of her hand and landed in some bushes nearby.
"Oh no," Ariel wailed as she realized she could not transform.
"Now to finish you off," laughed Shimura. She sent out another blast of energy. It engulfed Ariel. She let out a scream of pain. She found that she could not move. "Now little princess of Mercury," Shimura laughed. "We will just let that energy drain you of your life force. Once that is done then you will die."
"MARS FIRESTORM!" The ball of fire flew out and hit Shimura. The blast of energy disappeared. Ariel collapsed to the ground. Chibi Mars stood in front of her. "How dare you hurt my friend," she shouted. "I am the Chibi Scout of fire and in the name of Mars I will punish you."
Shimura narrowed her eyes at Chibi Mars. "Out of my way you brat," she snapped. She held up her hand and suddenly Chibi Mars found herself being flung against the wall. She groaned in pain. She started to get up when she realized that a force was holding her in place. "I can't move," she cried.
"Of course not," laughed Shimura. "Now you cannot interfere." She turned back to Ariel and sent out another blast of energy. Ariel screamed in pain. "I will destroy you little princess of Mercury."
Ariel screamed. As she screamed her planet symbol appeared on her forehead. It began to glow.
"MARS FLAME SNIPER!"
"MERCURY AQUA RHAPSODY!"
"VENUS BEAUTIFUL SHOCKWAVE!"
"TIDAL WAVE!"
"DESTRUCTIVE RAY!"
The volley of attacks flew out and hit Shimura disrupting the energy blast. Ariel collapsed to the ground. Chibi Mars found she was able to move. She stumbled over to the group of Scouts and Chibi Scouts and collapsed into Mars's arms.
"I don't know what your agenda is," Cosmic Moon shouted. "But I will no longer let you harm a member of my team."
"Stop interfering," Shimura shouted in rage. She turned back to Ariel but the child was safe in her mother's arms. Jupiter and Venus were standing in front of her protecting her. Shimura started to power up again.
"WORLD SHAKING!"
"DEAD SCREAM!"
Shimura screamed in pain. She was badly weakened from the attacks.
"Now Cosmic Moon," Sailor Neptune ordered.
"Right," Cosmic Moon called. She powered up. "MOON PRINCESS HEALING KISS!" Her attack flew out and destroyed Shimura.
"Is she all right Mama," Chibi Mars anxiously asked as everyone gathered around Ariel who was unconscience in Mercury's arms.
"I will need to get her to the hospital quickly," Mercury stated.
"Look," Chibi Venus shouted. The symbol of Mercury glowed brightly on Ariel's forehead.
"What is this," asked Sailor Venus. "This is unusual."
The glow grew brighter and it began to take shape above Ariel's head. Suddenly a crystal appeared.
Melody sat nervously in Amy's office. She did not know what was going on. She knew that Ariel was seriously injured and was recovering in the hospital wing. Amy had sent for Melody and told her to wait in her office. Melody wondered what this was about.
Amy and Serenity came walking in. Melody jumped up. "How is Ariel," she asked.
"She'll be fine," Amy assured her. "I will need to be back with her in a few minutes. Greg and Moonbeam are with her right now. I'll be spending the night with her here so you mind Greg."
"I will," Melody promised as she pushed her glasses up her nose. "So why did you ask me to come here?"
Serenity held something out. "We figured from Ashley's visit that this is what you are looking for."
Melody saw that Serenity had a crystal in her hand. "It came out of Ariel's planetary symbol on her forehead," Amy explained.
Melody took the crystal from Serenity. She held it in her hand and felt a power build up inside of her. She held up the crystal. "MERCURY CRYSTAL POWER MAKE UP!" Icy ribbons flew all over her and she found herself in a Scout uniform similar to all the Mercury Scout uniforms. Her uniform was an icy blue color with a royal blue bow.
"So you will be the fourth scout of Mercury," Serenity stated.
"Yes," Melody replied. "I am Ariel's granddaughter. I was sent back to the past to retrieve the planet crystal. My mother, grandmother and great-grandmother are waiting for me in the future."
"Melody," Amy knelt down in front of her great granddaughter. "Are there any more coming back?"
"I cannot tell you," Melody replied. "Sailor Venus told me not to reveal more than I have too."
"We understand," Serenity stated and Amy nodded.
"I guess you need to go back now," Amy sighed and Melody nodded.
"I would like to see Ariel first," Melody requested as she powered down.
"Of course," Amy took Melody's hand and led her out of the room.
"Daddy am I in trouble," Ariel nervously asked.
"Why do you ask," Greg asked as he rumpled Ariel's hair.
"Because I threw dirt in Aunt Lita's eyes," Ariel replied.
"You did what," Moonbeam cried in shock.
"Oh that," Greg stated dryly. "Well you can expect a talking to from me and Mommy when you get out and you will be apologizing to Aunt Lita too."
Ariel gave a gusty sigh. She did not know why Shimura had been so bent on killing her but she was relieved to hear that Cosmic Moon had destroyed her.
"How's my girl," asked Amy as she came in with Melody.
"Mommy," Ariel held out her arms and Amy sat down and pulled the child into an embrace.
Melody came over and sat down on the bed. "I am glad you are all right," she whispered.
"Thank you," Ariel replied.
"I have to go home now," Melody stated. "I just wanted to say goodbye."
"Will I ever see you again," Ariel asked.
"I promise," Melody smiled. "I'm sorry I tried to be like your mommy."
"It's okay," Ariel said.
"Can I have a hug," Melody asked. Ariel hesitated for a moment then with Amy's urging reached over and hugged Melody. "I love you grandma."
Amy walked Melody over to the Gates of Time. "I am glad to I got to meet you," Amy stated. "The only regret I have is that I have to wait for so long before I see you again."
"It will only be a few minutes for me," Melody told her. She hugged Amy tightly. "Goodbye Great-grandma."
"Goodbye Melody," Amy whispered. Melody headed over to the time portal and vanished. Amy sighed. It was nice to know that Melody was going to be a part of her life one-day but at least today Amy had her own little girl to take care of. Amy headed back down to the palace hospital. Once she got there she went right to Ariel's room. The child was curled up in Greg's arms with Moonbeam on her lap. "Mommy," Ariel squealed. Amy smiled and she went over to the bed. She pulled Ariel into her arms and held her. She was not ready to entertain the idea that this small child would be a grandmother one-day.
Melody walked through the Time Portal. She saw her mother, grandmother and great-grandmother waiting for her. Mina, Gloria and Celine were also waiting. "Mom," Melody cried as she ran over to them. Marina knelt down and pulled the child into her embrace.
"Hi Darling welcome home," Marina replied.
Melody turned to Ariel. "Grandma you were so cute," she cried.
"That's what everyone tells me," Ariel said as she hugged Melody.
"Welcome home Melody," Amy hugged the child. "We missed you."
"Sailor Chibi Crystal Mercury," Mina stated. Melody turned to her. "Welcome to the team."
"Thank you," Melody bowed before her commanders. She was home and she was a Sailor Scout. It was time to join the team.
Lady Daphne sat in her lair. "So Shimura failed," she grumbled. "Well I will have to see that the other Crystal Scouts never awaken."
End of Part two.
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