Hi Everyone. Due to popular demand here is part four of "The Crystal Scouts." Many people have asked me about Elysian Venus. Well the answers to some of your questions will be here. Just to warn you there is some hints of child abuse in this part. There isn't anything graphic but there are hints.
As for the next subpart in Maggie and Daisy's part in "The Friendship Series," it is in the works. Now that I am off for a couple of months I will have more time.
E-mail me with suggestions and feedback to AngelRaye2@aol.com.
Also visit my web site at http://angelrayeschibiscouts.homestead.com/angelraye.html
Captain Commando has set up a Chibi Scout message board at http://pub53.ezboard.com/bangelrayeschibiscouts. Please drop by and leave a message.
Disclaimers: I do not own Sailor Moon. With the exception of Rini I own this generation of Sailor Scouts.
The Crystal Scouts
Part Three: The Venus Crystal
By Angel Raye
Sailor Venus sat at her desk going through her paperwork. Now that the newest generation of Scouts was being awakened Venus was going to have to set up a schedule for their training. As commander of all Scouts that was her job. Venus did not mind. If she could handle her daughter Gloria when she was a child she could handle anyone.
"Mother," Venus looked up and saw her daughter Gloria also known as Cosmic Venus standing at the doorway. "You wanted to see me?"
"Come in Gloria," Venus stated as she powered down. Gloria smiled and sat down. She accepted a cup of tea her mother offered her. Mina took a sip of her own tea. "It is time to send Tiffany back so that she can find the Venus crystal."
"I thought so," Gloria sighed. "I remember it all now. She arrived shortly after Lily left. When Lily returned I figured Tiffany would be the next to go."
"I have sent for Celine and she should be here soon," Mina stated. "How do you think she will react?"
"Who knows," muttered Gloria. "She might be glad to be rid of Tiffany for a while." Gloria took in another sip of tea and then murmured, "Sometimes I wish Minako was the one who would be Elysian Venus."
"I know you do," Mina placed a comforting hand on Gloria's. "Minako probably would have accepted it better too but Artemis did not detect the Scout aura in your younger daughter. It was found in Celine."
"It just pains me that both Minako and Kazuto have to age and die," Gloria sighed sadly.
"We all know the price of eternal life," Mina reminded Gloria gently. "Your son and your other daughter both live happy lives. They have children. Just remember that Minako and Kazuto will live on in their descendents." Gloria only nodded her head.
The door opened and Celine swept in. Her icy blue eyes focused on her mother and grandmother. "What is it now," she demanded.
"Please have a seat Celine," Mina motioned to an empty chair. Celine sat down. Mina decided to get to the point. "It is time to send Tiffany back to get the Venus crystal."
"I see," Celine muttered. "The only reason why I had her was so that there could be another Venus Scout."
"Get off that," Gloria said. "Most people are happy to have such a pretty daughter. I don't understand why you aren't."
"I was quite content with just my two sons," Celine snapped. "I didn't want another child and I did not want a daughter. Having to help out with Minako so many times was enough with that."
"You still blame me for your father's death," Gloria rasped. "You were twelve years old when that happened. Why can't you let it go?"
"He went out because he was worried about you," Celine shouted. "You were off fighting that terrible youma and it was shown on the news. Dad saw you and went out after you. He died because of you. Then you had to marry someone else and have Minako. Kazuto and I weren't enough. You had to have a child with him and I had to help out so many times with her that I did not want a daughter. Minako has two girls and Kazuto has one. Why couldn't one of them been a Sailor Scout?"
"Stop blaming me for your father's death," Gloria shouted. "Not a day goes by where I don't think about what happened. I do not need your blame. As for my other granddaughters, they could not be Scouts because their parents aren't. That is why you had to have Tiffany. She is a sweet, beautiful child. Most people would love to have a child like her."
"Cool it both of you," Mina stepped in. "Right now we need to talk about Tiffany. It is time for her to go back. I have already discussed it with their Majesties and it's all settled. Chelsea will provide you with the orb so you can keep an eye on her Celine. Now I need you to go and get Tiffany."
"Very well," Celine growled and she left the room. As soon as she left Gloria broke down and started crying. Mina put an arm around her daughter to comfort her. This was very typical in the Venus family.
Tiffany Aino nervously finished braiding her red hair. At seven years old she was very self-sufficient. Her mother was very strict about that. Tiffany knew her hair would have to look good. Celine had threatened to cut it off if she did not take care of it. Tiffany never knew when her mother would come in.
Sighing Tiffany gazed at the picture of a man on her bedside table. "Daddy," she whispered. "Where are you? Why did you leave us?" Her father left three years ago and never returned. Celine married someone else but he did not care about Tiffany. He was more interested in her older brothers Isao and Chomei but he had no use for a little girl. Tiffany loved it when she could visit her grandmother and great-grandmother. They always gave her the love she longed for.
A slamming door told Tiffany that her mother just walked into their quarters. Nervously Tiffany sat down on her bed. Celine swept into the room. "What have you been up too," she asked.
"Nothing Ma'am," Tiffany whispered.
"You need to come with me," Celine snapped.
"Why," asked Tiffany in a scared voice. There was one time Celine had taken her to Amy and Ariel. Tiffany loved them but Celine told them that Tiffany was trying to kill herself. Amy had promptly stuck her in the palace hospital. While she and Ariel worked with Tiffany they found out Celine had told them a story. Disgusted Amy had discharged Tiffany while Ariel gave her a long lecture about parental responsibility. Since then Tiffany was scared about what her mother might try next to get her out of her hair.
"Your grandmother and great-grandmother wish to see you," Celine replied coldly.
"Really," Tiffany's face brightened. "Am I going to stay with Grandma tonight?"
Celine scowled at her daughter. "No questions," she barked and Tiffany winced. "Just come with me."
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany choked as she followed her mother out the door.
Gloria and Mina looked up when Celine came in with Tiffany. Both of them could tell that Tiffany was close to tears. Gloria knelt down and held her arms out. "Hi Sweetie," she said.
"Grandma," Tiffany ran into her arms. She held onto Gloria tightly. "Play any funny pranks today?"
"Not today darling," Gloria smiled as she ran her hand over Tiffany's face.
Mina reached down and picked Tiffany up. She gave the child a kiss. "How are you little one?"
"Okay great-grandma," Tiffany replied. With Celine standing right there, she didn't dare tell the truth.
"I have some news for you Tiffany," Gloria stated. She sat down and motioned for Tiffany to sit on her lap. Tiffany ran over to her and climbed up. "Artemis and Luna detected the aura of Venus in you. You will be a Sailor Scout of Venus like me, your mother and great-grandmother."
"Really," Tiffany's eyes lit up. "I am going to be a Sailor Scout like Ashley, Melody and Lily?"
"Yes," Mina replied. "You are going to go back to the past so you can find the Venus crystal. Your grandmother will only be nine years old when you go back. You must not reveal who you are. After you find the crystal you can tell my generation of Scouts who you are but the Chibi Scouts are not to know."
"I understand," Tiffany was brimming with excitement. She was going away without her mother for a few days. Her grandmother will only be a couple of years older then her and her great-grandmother will be taking care of her. "Maybe I can find a way to stay," Tiffany thought to herself.
"Your mother and I will be going over the instructions with you," Mina told her. "So we need to get you ready. Give your grandmother a kiss goodbye."
Tiffany ran over to Gloria and gave her a hug and kiss. "Goodbye grandma I love you," Tiffany said.
"I love you too," Gloria replied as she held her granddaughter in a very tight embrace. "I will be waiting for you when you return." Tiffany nodded and then followed Mina and Celine out the door. Gloria reached into her pocket and pulled out a picture. It was of herself at age nine with Tiffany. How happy Tiffany looked in that picture. Gloria said a silent prayer for her grandchild's safety.
Lady Daphne sat in her realm glaring at images of the Sailor Scouts. There were three complete generations and one incomplete generation. Lady Daphne was determined that no more generations on soldiers would be completed.
"Topaz," she called and the woman stepped forward.
"Yes my lady," she said as she bowed.
"The child who is to be the crystal Scout of Venus is going back to the past," she replied. "She must not find that crystal. Your predecessors failed me. I expect you to succeed."
"And I will my lady," Topaz declared. "Little Tiffany Aino will be destroyed."
"Very well Topaz," Lady Daphne nodded her head. "Proceed and bring me back a success story." Topaz held up her time key and disappeared.
"Now remember what I said," Celine ordered. "If I have to come back there and deal with you then I will give you a whipping that you will never forget."
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany choked. She headed toward the time gate. Sailor Pluto was waiting for her. She turned around and saw that Celine had already left. Tiffany turned back and ran toward the gate.
During the time of the Chibi Scouts...
Greg pulled the car into the palace carport. He glanced at Amy who was sitting in the passenger seat. Ariel was asleep in her arms. "She's wiped out isn't she," he observed.
"She had a big day," Amy smiled as she kissed her daughter. They had just spent the day at a computer fair. Ariel had a wonderful time but now she was exhausted. Amy decided to let her sleep for a little while before dinner.
Greg parked the car and got out. Amy carefully got out with Greg's help. Ariel stirred but did not wake up. Greg and Amy walked out of the carport and onto the breezeway. A rustle in the bushes got their attention. "What was that," asked Greg.
"I don't know," Amy replied as she tightened her hold around Ariel. Cautiously they walked over to the bushes. They relaxed when a little girl of about seven emerged. She had red hair in two braids and the greenest eyes they had ever seen. "Hello there," said Amy. "Are you lost?"
"No Ma'am," the child whispered. "My name is Tiffany."
"Who are you," asked Greg.
Tiffany was about to reply when Mina suddenly came hurrying up the breezeway. "Hi Amy," she called. "Who is this?"
"Great grandma," Tiffany thought. Without any warning she threw herself into Mina's arms and began to cry.
"Oh my," Mina gasped in surprise. She reached down and picked the child up. "Are you okay honey?"
"Greg take Ariel," Amy commanded as a feeling of déjà vu came over her. Greg took Ariel from her arms. "I am going to take our young guest here to my office and scan her." With that she ushered Mina into the palace.
"So we have another visitor from the future," Haruka sighed. "I guess this one is related to Mina."
"Yes," Amy replied. "Her name is Tiffany."
"Where is Mina," asked Raye.
"She is in my office," Amy informed her. "Unlike the others this child is very upset and frightened. She won't let go of Mina right now so I decided she should stay in there with her."
"That was a good idea," Serenity stated. "In the meantime if she is here for the Venus crystal she could very well be in danger. We need to look out for her and protect her."
"And of course the children and our husbands must not know about this," Hotaru added and everyone nodded in agreement.
Mina had finally calmed Tiffany down. The child would not tell her anything. Fortunately Tiffany agreed to stay with Lita for a few minutes so that Mina could prepare Gloria for their visitor. When Mina entered her quarters she was almost knocked down by a blast of loud music. Groaning Mina put her hands over her ears and went into her daughter's room. Gloria was dancing on her bed. Annoyed Mina walked over and turned the music off. "Hey," Gloria snapped. "What's the big idea?"
"It's too loud and how many times have I told you that the bed is not for dancing on," Mina replied sternly.
"Pooh I like dancing on the bed," Gloria stated in a rude voice.
"If you break it then you can pay for a new one with your allowance," Mina informed her.
"Fine," Gloria grumbled as she got down. "So what do you want?"
Mina sat down and motioned Gloria to sit down by her. "We have a visitor who will be staying with us," Mina began.
"Its not that drip Heather is it," asked Gloria.
"No it's not," Mina replied. "Her name is Tiffany. You might say she is a distant relative. She will be staying with us for a while."
"Is she friends with Ashley, Melody and Lily," Gloria asked curiously.
"Yes," Mina told her. She got a stern look in her eyes and placed a hand under Gloria's chin. She lifted Gloria's face up so that they were making direct eye contact. "Now listen to me. This child is very timid and very unhappy right now. I want you to be nice. Any trouble and you will get punished. Do you understand?"
"Fine," Gloria grumbled. She folded her arms and followed her mother out into the living room. A few minutes later Lita arrived with a little girl. Gloria looked at the child closely. "She's pretty," Gloria thought.
"Grandma," Tiffany thought. She suddenly ran over and flung her arms around Gloria's neck. She began to cry again. Gloria was astonished. But after a couple of awkward seconds she returned the hug and made up her mind she would be nice to this child.
"Are you girls ready for dinner," Mina asked later on.
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany replied as she emerged wearing a green dress.
"Honey you can call me Aunt Mina," Mina told her.
"Sorry," Tiffany blushed. Mina had noticed that this child was very nervous all the time.
"I'm ready," Gloria came out wearing her blue dress.
"Then let's go," Asai called.
Tiffany followed them and accidentally bumped into a table, knocking a vase of flowers off. It crashed to the floor shattering the vase. "Oh I'm so sorry," Tiffany howled as she bent down and began to clean up the mess. "I am really sorry."
"It's okay honey it was just an accident," Mina assured her as she came over to help.
"I'm a stupid clumsy fool who can't do anything right," sobbed Tiffany.
"No you're not," Mina took Tiffany's hands in hers. "It was an accident that could happen to anyone. Don't be so hard on yourself." Mina pulled the child into her arms and held her tight. Tiffany was tense at first but then she relaxed. She was not used to receiving these kinds of treatment whenever she did something wrong.
Gloria watched all this with sympathy in her eyes.
"She's scared of her own shadow," Mina told her friends at dinner that night. "When she accidentally knocked that vase of flowers over she went to pieces."
"Maybe she has very strict parents," Lita suggested.
"Maybe," Mina sighed. "I just hope she relaxes."
"If you want me to talk to her I will," Amy offered.
"We'll see," Mina replied. "I don't want to scare her more."
"Mommy," Ariel came over. "I don't feel very good."
Amy placed a hand on Ariel's forehead. "Oh my, you are burning up," she gasped. She stood up with Ariel in her arms. "I had better get her back to our quarters. Mina if you need me to help with Tiffany then let me know."
"Thank you," Mina replied hoping it wouldn't come to that.
That night Gloria and Tiffany were getting ready for bed. Gloria was telling Tiffany about a prank she played in school that day. "It was so funny," Gloria said. "Our teacher was trying to teach and could not figure out what was making those funny noises."
Tiffany giggled. "Hey you can laugh," Gloria stated and Tiffany blushed. "It's because of you Grandma. You always make me laugh."
"Well if my pranks make you laugh I will have to play some more while you are here," Gloria declared.
"I would like that," Tiffany replied softly. She began to unwind one of her braids so she could finish getting ready for bed.
Mina went into Gloria's room. She was not surprised to see Gloria bouncing around. She was surprised to see that Tiffany had undone her braids and her hair fell in a nicely brushed mane. "Well Tiffany I was going to brush your hair for you but it looks like you have already taken care of that," she stated. She turned to Gloria. "Park it so I can take care of yours." Tiffany watched at Gloria sat on the bed. Mina took the bow out and began to brush Gloria's hair. Tiffany felt a prickle of sadness. Celine never did that with her. After Gloria's hair was brushed Tiffany watched as Mina tucked her into bed and kissed her goodnight. Tiffany felt more sadness.
Mina came over and sat down beside her. She began to tuck the covers around Tiffany. "What are you doing," asked Tiffany.
"Tucking you in silly," Mina laughed. "Is there anything wrong with that?"
"No Ma'am," Tiffany blushed with embarrassment. She was not used to this treatment.
"Call me Aunt Mina," Mina whispered as she kissed Tiffany on the cheek. "Goodnight and pleasant dreams."
"Goodnight," Tiffany whispered back. Her eyes moistened as Mina left the room. "I don't want to find the Venus crystal. I want to stay here."
"How's our young visitor," Asai asked.
"Tense and nervous," Mina sighed. "She could not believe I was actually tucking her into bed. I wonder if she is nurtured at home."
"We won't know unless she talks," Asai sighed.
"Well I don't know how long she will stay but I will care for her like my own," Mina vowed.
Much to Tiffany's relief she got placed in Madelyn's class at school. She did not like the idea of being in a class of strangers by herself. Madelyn had friends and they were happy to let in the group. Tiffany was glad but she really wanted to be with Gloria. So after school she ran right over to Gloria and Annika.
"Hi Tiffany," Annika called. "Did you have fun today?"
"It was okay," Tiffany replied softly. "I wish I was in class with you though."
"Be glad you aren't," Gloria whined. "I can't believe Ariel had to be out today when we were taking that stupid test. I was going to copy her answers."
"What test was that," asked Maggie as she and Daisy came up.
"We had too list all the major cities in Japan," Annika explained. "I thought it was easy but then Mama quizzed me on them last night."
"Maybe you should do that Gloria," Hope added as she joined the girls. "Then you wouldn't need to copy Ariel."
"Why did she have to get sick now," Gloria grumbled.
"Come on let's go home," Daisy sighed and the girls headed back to the palace.
Topaz kept an eye on Crystal Tokyo Elementary. She knew which child she was looking for and she was determined she would find her today.
Finally she saw a group of girls leaving the playground together. She saw the child she was looking for. Her red braids made her easy to find. "There you are Tiffany Aino," she laughed. She held up her hand and a beam of energy came out. It headed right for Tiffany.
Annika suddenly gave a gasp and stopped in her tracks. "What is it Annika," asked Maggie.
"I feel a strong force," Annika replied. The other girls stopped.
"Tiffany you had better go somewhere safe," Gloria ordered. Tiffany nodded her head. She started to walk away when a beam of energy hit her. She screamed as she lost all movement. "I can't move," she shouted.
"Got you child," laughed Topaz. "Now it is time to destroy you."
"Transform everyone," shouted Gloria and everyone held up their pens.
"VENUS POWER MAKE UP!"
"MARS POWER MAKE UP!"
"JUPITER POWER MAKE UP!"
"PLUTO POWER MAKE UP!"
"NEPTUNE POWER MAKE UP!"
"URANUS POWER MAKE UP!"
"SATURN POWER MAKE UP!"
"Hold it right there," Chibi Venus shouted. "I do not know what your intentions are but you will leave Tiffany alone."
"Don't interfere brats," Topaz shouted. "I am going kill this child and I won't take any interference from you."
"Not if I can help it," shouted Chibi Jupiter and she powered up. "JUPITER DEADLY LIGHTENING BOLT!" Her attack flew out and hit Topaz. Tiffany was freed from the energy. Chibi Pluto ran forward and grabbed her.
"All right," roared Topaz in rage. "Now I am really angry." She held up a stone and it began to glow. The tree behind the Chibi Scouts came to life. Chibi Mars powered up. "MARS FIRESTORM!" The tree youma laughed and blocked the attack from hitting him. It ricocheted off and hit the Chibi Scouts. They all screamed as they went down.
"Minna," cried Tiffany. "This is all my fault just like everything else is."
"Now I cam destroy the Chibi Scouts and this child," laughed Topaz.
"Hold it right there," called a new voice. Topaz looked up and saw Cosmic Moon standing there. "How dare you attack an innocent child. I am the agent of love and justice, a pretty soldier in a sailor suit. I am Sailor Cosmic Moon and in the name of the moon I will punish you."
"Just in time Cosmic Moon," groaned Chibi Neptune.
Cosmic Moon jumped down next to the Chibi Scouts. "We don't have Chibi Mercury with us today so we need to do our best. Chibi Venus use you attack from behind to hit the youma. Chibi Uranus you help her. Chibi Pluto you take care of Tiffany. Chibi Mars and Chibi Jupiter you deal with her."
"And what about me," asked Chibi Saturn.
"Help take care of Tiffany," Cosmic Moon replied.
"All right girls enough talking," shouted Topaz. "Time to fight. Get them my youma."
The tree youma approached the Chibi Scouts. Chibi Venus and Chibi Uranus ran behind him and powered up.
"VENUS BEAUTIFUL SHOCKWAVE!"
"EARTHQUAKE TEMORS!"
The youma did not see the attacks and got hit. He screamed in pain and weakened.
"Now Cosmic Moon," shouted Chibi Saturn who was standing in front of Tiffany.
Cosmic Moon got out her scepter. "MOON PRINCESS HEALING KISS!" The attack flew out and hit the youma restoring back to a tree.
"I'll remember this," shouted Topaz. "And I will be back." With that she disappeared.
"Is everyone all right," asked Cosmic Moon.
"We're fine," Chibi Uranus replied.
"Tiffany it's okay," Chibi Pluto stated. Everyone saw that Tiffany was crying.
"What are you crying about," asked Chibi Venus as she powered down.
"I'm sorry," sobbed Tiffany. "All this is my fault."
"How is it your fault," asked Rini gently.
"Because everything is always my fault," cried Tiffany and she ran off.
"Tiffany," called the others.
"Are you sure that is what she said," Mina asked Rini later.
"Yes," Rini replied. "She told us that everything is always her fault."
"Someone had to have been telling her this all of her life," Amy pointed out. She turned to Mina. "I want you to bring her in to see me."
"Very well," Mina sighed. "I'll bring her to you later on today."
"Tiffany," Gloria came into her room. Tiffany was sitting on the bed. "It wasn't your fault. We are fighters for justice. It is our job to protect people."
"But you all were fighting because of me," sobbed Tiffany.
"So what," Gloria cried. "I am not going to let anything happen to you and neither are my friends so stop blaming yourself."
Tiffany gazed at Gloria. "You always say that to me Grandma," she thought. She reached over and hugged Gloria tightly.
"Is everyone okay in here," asked Mina as she walked in.
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany replied wiping her eyes.
Mina sat down on the bed beside Tiffany and placed her hand on the child's face. "I want you to come with me for a while," she said. "Amy wants to talk to you."
"Are you going to put me in the therapy room," Tiffany asked in sheer terror.
"No," Mina assured as she hugged the child. "She just wants to talk for a few minutes. If you like I will stay with you."
Tiffany tightened her grip on Mina's arm and nodded her head.
"Please sit down," Amy pointed to the couch. Tiffany and Mina sat down. Tiffany kept a tight grip on Mina's arm. Amy got out her notebook and sat down across from them. "Rini told me that you said that everything is always your fault."
"Well everything is my fault," Tiffany choked. "It always is. I'm a stupid clumsy fool who cannot do anything right."
"You've said that before," Mina pointed out.
"And who tells you that Tiffany," Amy asked gently.
"What do you mean," asked Tiffany in alarm.
"Someone has to be telling you this," Amy explained. "Who is it?"
"NO," Tiffany screamed. She threw her arms around Mina and howled. "I won't tell. I won't tell."
"I think we had better end this session," Mina stated as she held the frightened child close to her. "We have a party to get ready for tonight anyway."
"I agree," Amy sighed. "But I want to talk with you later." Mina nodded in agreement and left carrying the sobbing child with her.
"I'm sorry," Tiffany said back in Mina's quarters. "I should not have yelled like that."
"Honey it's okay," Mina assured her. "Everyone gets upset once in a while."
"So I can cry," asked Tiffany.
"Of course," Gloria came in. "Annika always cries and Aunt Raye lets her."
"Gloria," Mina muttered. "We have to get ready for the party tonight."
Gloria pulled a face. "How boring," she moaned. "Ariel is lucky. I wish I had the flu right now."
"No you don't," Mina told her. She turned to Tiffany. "Aunt Lita is loaning you one of Daisy's dresses that she outgrew a few years ago. Why don't you let me do something pretty with your hair tonight?"
"Okay," Tiffany smiled. Her mother never did her hair.
Asai sat and waited for Mina to finish with the girls. "What's going to happen when Gloria is a teenager," he asked Artemis.
"We'll be waiting twice as long," Artemis replied.
Mina emerged with Gloria and Tiffany. Mina had done Tiffany's hair up in green bow. Her red hair was loose and wavy. Mina was amazed at how beautiful it was.
"Now don't you girls look pretty," Asai commented.
"Thank you Sir," Tiffany replied.
"Drop the formalities," Mina ordered. She held up a camera. "Let me get a picture of the two of you."
Gloria put her arm around Tiffany. Tiffany gave a big smile and for the first time for as long as she could remember she felt happy. Mina clicked the camera and the picture was taken.
"What are you planning," Annika asked Gloria suspiciously.
"Why do you ask that," Gloria replied in an innocent voice. They had been at the party for an hour now and both of them were bored.
"You have that look on your face that tells me you are planning something," Annika told her. "So what is it?"
"Tiffany needs to be happy," Gloria stated. "I am going to play a prank to make her laugh."
"And what are you going to do," asked Annika.
Gloria giggled and pulled a frog out of her pocket. "I am going to put this on the table," she laughed. Annika giggled. This was going to be funny.
"Annika," Raye came up behind them.
"Mama," Annika quickly turned to face her mother.
Raye knelt down by Annika and pushed her hair out of her face. "I want you to come with me for a while."
"Why Mama," asked Annika as she hugged Raye.
"I just do," Raye replied. She took Annika's hand and led her away.
"She must have sensed I was up to something," Gloria muttered. She went off in search of Tiffany and found her standing by Mina. Gloria went up to her and took her hand. "Come with me."
"Where are we going," asked Tiffany.
Gloria pulled the frog out of her pocket. "I am going to put this on the dessert table," she giggled.
Tiffany laughed. "That is going to be funny," she replied. "Oh Grandma you always know how to cheer me up."
Gloria and Tiffany went over the dessert table. Gloria carefully placed the frog on the table. Then she and Tiffany stepped back to watch the fun. Neo-Queen Serenity came up to the table. "Ooh cakes," she sighed. "I am ready for dessert." She got a plate and started piling it with cakes. Suddenly the frog jumped up and landed right in the center of her plate. Serenity gave out a loud scream and dropped her plate. Everyone came running over.
"What is it," Endymion cried in alarm.
"A frog," Serenity yelled. "There was a frog on the table."
"Gloria," shouted Mina as she ran over. Her daughter was doubled over in laughter. Tiffany was giggling too. "Can't you go for one evening without a prank?"
"I was trying to make Tiffany laugh," Gloria shouted.
"Well now you can come with me," Mina snapped. "Palla is staying with Ariel so you can just go and stand in the corner of Aunt Amy's quarters."
"Aunt Mina please," sobbed Tiffany running over. "This is my fault. She was only trying to cheer me up. Please don't punish her."
"I'm sorry Tiffany but Gloria know she is not to play pranks at these parties," Mina replied. She dragged Gloria off. Upset, Tiffany ran out onto the balcony. There was no one out there since it was a cold night. Tiffany leaned over and began to cry hard.
Suddenly a hand grabbed her by the nape of her neck. Tiffany gave a cry of pain. She looked up and saw Celine standing angrily over her. "M...m...mother," she gasped.
"Do what you are supposed to do," Celine snapped. "Stop being the lazy fool you are and get something accomplished for a change."
"I haven't done anything wrong," Tiffany sobbed.
"STOP THAT CRYING," Celine shouted as she spanked Tiffany hard across her backside. "You are supposed to get the Venus crystal and get back to our time. You aren't doing anything worthwhile. Now what are you supposed to say?"
"I'm a stupid, clumsy fool who can't do anything right," Tiffany choked as she wrapped her arms around herself.
"And don't you forget that," Celine snapped. "Watch what you say around my grandmother and Amy. I don't want them finding anything out. Now find that damn crystal and get home."
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany whispered. She watched as Celine disappeared and then shakily went back into the party. Mina had just gotten back. Taking a deep breath, Tiffany walked over to her. She wrapped her arms around Mina's waist.
"There you are," Mina exclaimed and she picked Tiffany up. She noticed Tiffany's tear stained face. "Are you okay Sweetie?"
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany whispered. "Please love me Great-grandma. I need your love." She rested her head on Mina's shoulder and was pleased when the woman tightened her embrace around her.
That night Gloria lay in her bed listening to Tiffany toss and turn. She was glad she managed to get her to laugh tonight but when her parents came and got her Gloria noticed that Tiffany had been crying again. She tried talking to Tiffany but the child did not say anything. "She's like Annika in a way," Gloria thought. "But she is also so different. She acts like she's afraid people are going to hit her."
Suddenly Tiffany sat up screaming. "Daddy," she screamed. "Grandma, Great-grandma help me!"
"Tiffany," Gloria said as she got up. She ran over to Tiffany and was surprised when the younger girl wrapped her arms around her in a death grip. Still screaming Tiffany hung on tight to Gloria.
The door opened and Mina and Asai flew in. Mina sat down on the bed and pulled the screaming child into her arms. "It's okay Tiffany," she soothed. "You're safe."
"Dad," Gloria hissed to Asai. "What is wrong with Tiffany?"
"I don't know honey," Asai sighed as he watched his wife calm the child down. "I am glad you are being nice to her."
"Asai I am going to let her sleep with us tonight," Mina informed him as she stood up with Tiffany in her arms. "I think it's for the best."
"I agree," Asai replied.
"Can I come too," asked Gloria not wanting to be alone all of the sudden.
"Of course," Mina replied. Everyone went into the master bedroom and got settled. Tiffany felt safe between her grandmother and great-grandmother. She fell into a peaceful sleep.
The next few days were uneventful. Topaz did not try to get Tiffany again. Ariel got over the flu. Mina took Tiffany to see Amy but the child refused to reveal anything. Tiffany found herself wanting to stay with Mina and Asai more and more. She had not been this happy since her father left. "If only I could live with my grandma in the future," she thought. "She and my great-grandma love me so much. Mother doesn't. I heard her telling my step-father she did not want a daughter." Tiffany felt a tear roll down her face. She had heard Celine say that two months ago and it still burned a hole in her heart.
"There you are," Topaz suddenly appeared in front of her. "Now I can get you."
"Go away," Tiffany screamed. She turned around and tried to run but a vine came out of nowhere and wrapped around her ankle. Tiffany fell down.
"Got you," laughed Topaz. "There is no escape for you little one. I will kill you."
"Not if I can help it," shouted a voice. Topaz turned and saw Sailor Venus, Sailor Jupiter, Sailor Chibi Venus and Sailor Chibi Mars standing there. "Let that child go," commanded Sailor Venus.
"Not a chance," Topaz shouted. She began to power up.
"JUPITER OAK EVOLUTION!" The attack flew out and released Tiffany from the vine. Chibi Venus ran over and pulled her to her feet.
"Come on," she gasped. Get to someplace safe."
Tiffany nodded. She started to run but Topaz saw her. "Get back here you brat," she shouted and she hurled an energy burst at Tiffany.
Suddenly Chibi Venus jumped in the way and took the full brunt of the attack. She screamed as the beam went right through her. A crystal shot out of her.
"Chibi Venus," screamed Venus.
"No Chibi Venus," cried Chibi Mars as tears fell down her face. In anger she powered up.
"MARS FIRESTORM!"
"VENUS LOVE AND BEAUTY SHOCK!"
The two attacks hit Topaz who screamed in pain and crumpled. At that moment Cosmic Moon appeared.
"Now Cosmic Moon," shouted Jupiter who had picked Tiffany up. The child had fainted. Venus dashed over to tend to her daughter.
"Right," called Cosmic Moon and she pulled out her scepter. "MOON PRINCESS HEALING KISS!"
"No," Topaz screamed. "I will not be defeated!" The attack washed over her and she disappeared.
"How is she," Chibi Mars asked as she rushed to Chibi Venus's side.
"We need to get her to Amy," Venus replied. She swept Chibi Venus up in her arms. In her hand she clutched the crystal that came out of her.
When Tiffany came too she was in the palace hospital. She moaned and woke up. "Well it's about time," Mina stated as she took Tiffany's hand in hers. "You have been out for a while."
"How's Gloria," asked Tiffany anxiously.
"She's fine," Mina replied. "Right now she is resting peacefully. Asai is with her."
"I'm sorry," Tiffany choked. "She got hurt because of me."
"Stop all of this self blame," Amy ordered. "Gloria was doing her job. We are all proud of her."
"I was wondering," Mina began as she dug in her pocket. "If this is what you are looking for." Mina pulled out an orange crystal.
Tiffany took it in her hand and felt a surge of power. She held it up. "VENUS CRYSTAL POWER MAKE UP!" Stars and hearts surrounded her. Her clothes melted into a yellowish orange uniform and a navy bow.
"You are Sailor Chibi Crystal Venus aren't you," asked Mina.
"Yes Ma'am," Chibi Crystal Venus replied. "I am your great-granddaughter. Gloria is my grandmother."
"So you came back for the Venus crystal," Amy concluded.
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany replied as she powered back down. She turned to Mina. "I wish I could stay here with you."
Mina smiled and knelt down. "Maybe you can stay for a while longer," she said.
"Really," Tiffany's eyes lit up. "I can stay with you."
"No you cannot," Sailor Pluto appeared. "I'm sorry little one but you must go back."
"Please let me stay here," Tiffany begged but Pluto shook her head.
"You must go home," she repeated. "Besides I know two people who are anxiously waiting for your return."
"Who," asked Tiffany.
"Your grandmother and great-grandmother," Pluto replied. "They both miss you."
"I guess I'll go back then," Tiffany sighed. "But only because they miss me."
Mina picked Tiffany up. "You are welcome to come back and visit," she stated.
Amy came over too. "Talk to my future self," she suggested. "I could not help you here but maybe I can help you in the future."
"I will," Tiffany replied.
"So you really have to leave," asked Gloria sadly. She and her parents were walking Tiffany toward the Gates of Time.
"I'm afraid so," Tiffany sighed.
"I'll miss you," Gloria stated as she hugged Tiffany.
"I'll miss you too," Tiffany replied. "But I will see you in a few minutes grandma."
"I have something for both of you," Asai said. He gave each of them a picture. It was the picture taken of the two of them on the night of the party. Both of them in princess gowns and big smiles.
"I'll keep it forever," Tiffany promised.
"Me too," Gloria added.
Mina hugged Tiffany tightly. "Goodbye and good luck Darling," she whispered. "And remember that you are loved."
"Goodbye," Tiffany whispered. "I love you Great-grandma."
"Goodbye," Asai hugged Tiffany.
"Will I see you again," Gloria asked.
"You will," Tiffany replied. "I love you grandma." Tiffany hugged everyone again and then went through the time gate. Gloria turned to her mother. "Mom will I ever see her again?"
"I guarantee it," Mina replied as she hugged her daughter.
Tiffany arrived in her time and saw Mina, Gloria and Celine all waiting for her. Gloria held out her arms. "Grandma," Tiffany shouted as she ran into Gloria's arms.
"Hi Darling," Gloria hugged Tiffany tightly. "I missed you."
"I missed you," Tiffany added. She held up the picture. Gloria smiled and held up hers. It was old and weathered but you still see the two girls in it clearly. "You kept all this time?"
"Of course," laughed Gloria.
"Welcome to the team Tiffany," Mina told her. "I know you will make us proud."
"Thank you Great-grandma," Tiffany replied. She glanced over at Celine but only saw a sour look in her mother's eyes. Tiffany held on tightly to Gloria as they walked back to the palace. Pluto was right that Mina and Gloria both loved her. "One day," she thought. "I will go back where Great-grandma can be my mom and Grandma can be my sister."
Lady Daphne was furious. "Topaz failed," she snarled. "Well I will make sure that the crystal scout of Neptune does not awaken."
To be continued...
As for the next subpart in Maggie and Daisy's part in "The Friendship Series," it is in the works. Now that I am off for a couple of months I will have more time.
E-mail me with suggestions and feedback to AngelRaye2@aol.com.
Also visit my web site at http://angelrayeschibiscouts.homestead.com/angelraye.html
Captain Commando has set up a Chibi Scout message board at http://pub53.ezboard.com/bangelrayeschibiscouts. Please drop by and leave a message.
Disclaimers: I do not own Sailor Moon. With the exception of Rini I own this generation of Sailor Scouts.
The Crystal Scouts
Part Three: The Venus Crystal
By Angel Raye
Sailor Venus sat at her desk going through her paperwork. Now that the newest generation of Scouts was being awakened Venus was going to have to set up a schedule for their training. As commander of all Scouts that was her job. Venus did not mind. If she could handle her daughter Gloria when she was a child she could handle anyone.
"Mother," Venus looked up and saw her daughter Gloria also known as Cosmic Venus standing at the doorway. "You wanted to see me?"
"Come in Gloria," Venus stated as she powered down. Gloria smiled and sat down. She accepted a cup of tea her mother offered her. Mina took a sip of her own tea. "It is time to send Tiffany back so that she can find the Venus crystal."
"I thought so," Gloria sighed. "I remember it all now. She arrived shortly after Lily left. When Lily returned I figured Tiffany would be the next to go."
"I have sent for Celine and she should be here soon," Mina stated. "How do you think she will react?"
"Who knows," muttered Gloria. "She might be glad to be rid of Tiffany for a while." Gloria took in another sip of tea and then murmured, "Sometimes I wish Minako was the one who would be Elysian Venus."
"I know you do," Mina placed a comforting hand on Gloria's. "Minako probably would have accepted it better too but Artemis did not detect the Scout aura in your younger daughter. It was found in Celine."
"It just pains me that both Minako and Kazuto have to age and die," Gloria sighed sadly.
"We all know the price of eternal life," Mina reminded Gloria gently. "Your son and your other daughter both live happy lives. They have children. Just remember that Minako and Kazuto will live on in their descendents." Gloria only nodded her head.
The door opened and Celine swept in. Her icy blue eyes focused on her mother and grandmother. "What is it now," she demanded.
"Please have a seat Celine," Mina motioned to an empty chair. Celine sat down. Mina decided to get to the point. "It is time to send Tiffany back to get the Venus crystal."
"I see," Celine muttered. "The only reason why I had her was so that there could be another Venus Scout."
"Get off that," Gloria said. "Most people are happy to have such a pretty daughter. I don't understand why you aren't."
"I was quite content with just my two sons," Celine snapped. "I didn't want another child and I did not want a daughter. Having to help out with Minako so many times was enough with that."
"You still blame me for your father's death," Gloria rasped. "You were twelve years old when that happened. Why can't you let it go?"
"He went out because he was worried about you," Celine shouted. "You were off fighting that terrible youma and it was shown on the news. Dad saw you and went out after you. He died because of you. Then you had to marry someone else and have Minako. Kazuto and I weren't enough. You had to have a child with him and I had to help out so many times with her that I did not want a daughter. Minako has two girls and Kazuto has one. Why couldn't one of them been a Sailor Scout?"
"Stop blaming me for your father's death," Gloria shouted. "Not a day goes by where I don't think about what happened. I do not need your blame. As for my other granddaughters, they could not be Scouts because their parents aren't. That is why you had to have Tiffany. She is a sweet, beautiful child. Most people would love to have a child like her."
"Cool it both of you," Mina stepped in. "Right now we need to talk about Tiffany. It is time for her to go back. I have already discussed it with their Majesties and it's all settled. Chelsea will provide you with the orb so you can keep an eye on her Celine. Now I need you to go and get Tiffany."
"Very well," Celine growled and she left the room. As soon as she left Gloria broke down and started crying. Mina put an arm around her daughter to comfort her. This was very typical in the Venus family.
Tiffany Aino nervously finished braiding her red hair. At seven years old she was very self-sufficient. Her mother was very strict about that. Tiffany knew her hair would have to look good. Celine had threatened to cut it off if she did not take care of it. Tiffany never knew when her mother would come in.
Sighing Tiffany gazed at the picture of a man on her bedside table. "Daddy," she whispered. "Where are you? Why did you leave us?" Her father left three years ago and never returned. Celine married someone else but he did not care about Tiffany. He was more interested in her older brothers Isao and Chomei but he had no use for a little girl. Tiffany loved it when she could visit her grandmother and great-grandmother. They always gave her the love she longed for.
A slamming door told Tiffany that her mother just walked into their quarters. Nervously Tiffany sat down on her bed. Celine swept into the room. "What have you been up too," she asked.
"Nothing Ma'am," Tiffany whispered.
"You need to come with me," Celine snapped.
"Why," asked Tiffany in a scared voice. There was one time Celine had taken her to Amy and Ariel. Tiffany loved them but Celine told them that Tiffany was trying to kill herself. Amy had promptly stuck her in the palace hospital. While she and Ariel worked with Tiffany they found out Celine had told them a story. Disgusted Amy had discharged Tiffany while Ariel gave her a long lecture about parental responsibility. Since then Tiffany was scared about what her mother might try next to get her out of her hair.
"Your grandmother and great-grandmother wish to see you," Celine replied coldly.
"Really," Tiffany's face brightened. "Am I going to stay with Grandma tonight?"
Celine scowled at her daughter. "No questions," she barked and Tiffany winced. "Just come with me."
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany choked as she followed her mother out the door.
Gloria and Mina looked up when Celine came in with Tiffany. Both of them could tell that Tiffany was close to tears. Gloria knelt down and held her arms out. "Hi Sweetie," she said.
"Grandma," Tiffany ran into her arms. She held onto Gloria tightly. "Play any funny pranks today?"
"Not today darling," Gloria smiled as she ran her hand over Tiffany's face.
Mina reached down and picked Tiffany up. She gave the child a kiss. "How are you little one?"
"Okay great-grandma," Tiffany replied. With Celine standing right there, she didn't dare tell the truth.
"I have some news for you Tiffany," Gloria stated. She sat down and motioned for Tiffany to sit on her lap. Tiffany ran over to her and climbed up. "Artemis and Luna detected the aura of Venus in you. You will be a Sailor Scout of Venus like me, your mother and great-grandmother."
"Really," Tiffany's eyes lit up. "I am going to be a Sailor Scout like Ashley, Melody and Lily?"
"Yes," Mina replied. "You are going to go back to the past so you can find the Venus crystal. Your grandmother will only be nine years old when you go back. You must not reveal who you are. After you find the crystal you can tell my generation of Scouts who you are but the Chibi Scouts are not to know."
"I understand," Tiffany was brimming with excitement. She was going away without her mother for a few days. Her grandmother will only be a couple of years older then her and her great-grandmother will be taking care of her. "Maybe I can find a way to stay," Tiffany thought to herself.
"Your mother and I will be going over the instructions with you," Mina told her. "So we need to get you ready. Give your grandmother a kiss goodbye."
Tiffany ran over to Gloria and gave her a hug and kiss. "Goodbye grandma I love you," Tiffany said.
"I love you too," Gloria replied as she held her granddaughter in a very tight embrace. "I will be waiting for you when you return." Tiffany nodded and then followed Mina and Celine out the door. Gloria reached into her pocket and pulled out a picture. It was of herself at age nine with Tiffany. How happy Tiffany looked in that picture. Gloria said a silent prayer for her grandchild's safety.
Lady Daphne sat in her realm glaring at images of the Sailor Scouts. There were three complete generations and one incomplete generation. Lady Daphne was determined that no more generations on soldiers would be completed.
"Topaz," she called and the woman stepped forward.
"Yes my lady," she said as she bowed.
"The child who is to be the crystal Scout of Venus is going back to the past," she replied. "She must not find that crystal. Your predecessors failed me. I expect you to succeed."
"And I will my lady," Topaz declared. "Little Tiffany Aino will be destroyed."
"Very well Topaz," Lady Daphne nodded her head. "Proceed and bring me back a success story." Topaz held up her time key and disappeared.
"Now remember what I said," Celine ordered. "If I have to come back there and deal with you then I will give you a whipping that you will never forget."
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany choked. She headed toward the time gate. Sailor Pluto was waiting for her. She turned around and saw that Celine had already left. Tiffany turned back and ran toward the gate.
During the time of the Chibi Scouts...
Greg pulled the car into the palace carport. He glanced at Amy who was sitting in the passenger seat. Ariel was asleep in her arms. "She's wiped out isn't she," he observed.
"She had a big day," Amy smiled as she kissed her daughter. They had just spent the day at a computer fair. Ariel had a wonderful time but now she was exhausted. Amy decided to let her sleep for a little while before dinner.
Greg parked the car and got out. Amy carefully got out with Greg's help. Ariel stirred but did not wake up. Greg and Amy walked out of the carport and onto the breezeway. A rustle in the bushes got their attention. "What was that," asked Greg.
"I don't know," Amy replied as she tightened her hold around Ariel. Cautiously they walked over to the bushes. They relaxed when a little girl of about seven emerged. She had red hair in two braids and the greenest eyes they had ever seen. "Hello there," said Amy. "Are you lost?"
"No Ma'am," the child whispered. "My name is Tiffany."
"Who are you," asked Greg.
Tiffany was about to reply when Mina suddenly came hurrying up the breezeway. "Hi Amy," she called. "Who is this?"
"Great grandma," Tiffany thought. Without any warning she threw herself into Mina's arms and began to cry.
"Oh my," Mina gasped in surprise. She reached down and picked the child up. "Are you okay honey?"
"Greg take Ariel," Amy commanded as a feeling of déjà vu came over her. Greg took Ariel from her arms. "I am going to take our young guest here to my office and scan her." With that she ushered Mina into the palace.
"So we have another visitor from the future," Haruka sighed. "I guess this one is related to Mina."
"Yes," Amy replied. "Her name is Tiffany."
"Where is Mina," asked Raye.
"She is in my office," Amy informed her. "Unlike the others this child is very upset and frightened. She won't let go of Mina right now so I decided she should stay in there with her."
"That was a good idea," Serenity stated. "In the meantime if she is here for the Venus crystal she could very well be in danger. We need to look out for her and protect her."
"And of course the children and our husbands must not know about this," Hotaru added and everyone nodded in agreement.
Mina had finally calmed Tiffany down. The child would not tell her anything. Fortunately Tiffany agreed to stay with Lita for a few minutes so that Mina could prepare Gloria for their visitor. When Mina entered her quarters she was almost knocked down by a blast of loud music. Groaning Mina put her hands over her ears and went into her daughter's room. Gloria was dancing on her bed. Annoyed Mina walked over and turned the music off. "Hey," Gloria snapped. "What's the big idea?"
"It's too loud and how many times have I told you that the bed is not for dancing on," Mina replied sternly.
"Pooh I like dancing on the bed," Gloria stated in a rude voice.
"If you break it then you can pay for a new one with your allowance," Mina informed her.
"Fine," Gloria grumbled as she got down. "So what do you want?"
Mina sat down and motioned Gloria to sit down by her. "We have a visitor who will be staying with us," Mina began.
"Its not that drip Heather is it," asked Gloria.
"No it's not," Mina replied. "Her name is Tiffany. You might say she is a distant relative. She will be staying with us for a while."
"Is she friends with Ashley, Melody and Lily," Gloria asked curiously.
"Yes," Mina told her. She got a stern look in her eyes and placed a hand under Gloria's chin. She lifted Gloria's face up so that they were making direct eye contact. "Now listen to me. This child is very timid and very unhappy right now. I want you to be nice. Any trouble and you will get punished. Do you understand?"
"Fine," Gloria grumbled. She folded her arms and followed her mother out into the living room. A few minutes later Lita arrived with a little girl. Gloria looked at the child closely. "She's pretty," Gloria thought.
"Grandma," Tiffany thought. She suddenly ran over and flung her arms around Gloria's neck. She began to cry again. Gloria was astonished. But after a couple of awkward seconds she returned the hug and made up her mind she would be nice to this child.
"Are you girls ready for dinner," Mina asked later on.
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany replied as she emerged wearing a green dress.
"Honey you can call me Aunt Mina," Mina told her.
"Sorry," Tiffany blushed. Mina had noticed that this child was very nervous all the time.
"I'm ready," Gloria came out wearing her blue dress.
"Then let's go," Asai called.
Tiffany followed them and accidentally bumped into a table, knocking a vase of flowers off. It crashed to the floor shattering the vase. "Oh I'm so sorry," Tiffany howled as she bent down and began to clean up the mess. "I am really sorry."
"It's okay honey it was just an accident," Mina assured her as she came over to help.
"I'm a stupid clumsy fool who can't do anything right," sobbed Tiffany.
"No you're not," Mina took Tiffany's hands in hers. "It was an accident that could happen to anyone. Don't be so hard on yourself." Mina pulled the child into her arms and held her tight. Tiffany was tense at first but then she relaxed. She was not used to receiving these kinds of treatment whenever she did something wrong.
Gloria watched all this with sympathy in her eyes.
"She's scared of her own shadow," Mina told her friends at dinner that night. "When she accidentally knocked that vase of flowers over she went to pieces."
"Maybe she has very strict parents," Lita suggested.
"Maybe," Mina sighed. "I just hope she relaxes."
"If you want me to talk to her I will," Amy offered.
"We'll see," Mina replied. "I don't want to scare her more."
"Mommy," Ariel came over. "I don't feel very good."
Amy placed a hand on Ariel's forehead. "Oh my, you are burning up," she gasped. She stood up with Ariel in her arms. "I had better get her back to our quarters. Mina if you need me to help with Tiffany then let me know."
"Thank you," Mina replied hoping it wouldn't come to that.
That night Gloria and Tiffany were getting ready for bed. Gloria was telling Tiffany about a prank she played in school that day. "It was so funny," Gloria said. "Our teacher was trying to teach and could not figure out what was making those funny noises."
Tiffany giggled. "Hey you can laugh," Gloria stated and Tiffany blushed. "It's because of you Grandma. You always make me laugh."
"Well if my pranks make you laugh I will have to play some more while you are here," Gloria declared.
"I would like that," Tiffany replied softly. She began to unwind one of her braids so she could finish getting ready for bed.
Mina went into Gloria's room. She was not surprised to see Gloria bouncing around. She was surprised to see that Tiffany had undone her braids and her hair fell in a nicely brushed mane. "Well Tiffany I was going to brush your hair for you but it looks like you have already taken care of that," she stated. She turned to Gloria. "Park it so I can take care of yours." Tiffany watched at Gloria sat on the bed. Mina took the bow out and began to brush Gloria's hair. Tiffany felt a prickle of sadness. Celine never did that with her. After Gloria's hair was brushed Tiffany watched as Mina tucked her into bed and kissed her goodnight. Tiffany felt more sadness.
Mina came over and sat down beside her. She began to tuck the covers around Tiffany. "What are you doing," asked Tiffany.
"Tucking you in silly," Mina laughed. "Is there anything wrong with that?"
"No Ma'am," Tiffany blushed with embarrassment. She was not used to this treatment.
"Call me Aunt Mina," Mina whispered as she kissed Tiffany on the cheek. "Goodnight and pleasant dreams."
"Goodnight," Tiffany whispered back. Her eyes moistened as Mina left the room. "I don't want to find the Venus crystal. I want to stay here."
"How's our young visitor," Asai asked.
"Tense and nervous," Mina sighed. "She could not believe I was actually tucking her into bed. I wonder if she is nurtured at home."
"We won't know unless she talks," Asai sighed.
"Well I don't know how long she will stay but I will care for her like my own," Mina vowed.
Much to Tiffany's relief she got placed in Madelyn's class at school. She did not like the idea of being in a class of strangers by herself. Madelyn had friends and they were happy to let in the group. Tiffany was glad but she really wanted to be with Gloria. So after school she ran right over to Gloria and Annika.
"Hi Tiffany," Annika called. "Did you have fun today?"
"It was okay," Tiffany replied softly. "I wish I was in class with you though."
"Be glad you aren't," Gloria whined. "I can't believe Ariel had to be out today when we were taking that stupid test. I was going to copy her answers."
"What test was that," asked Maggie as she and Daisy came up.
"We had too list all the major cities in Japan," Annika explained. "I thought it was easy but then Mama quizzed me on them last night."
"Maybe you should do that Gloria," Hope added as she joined the girls. "Then you wouldn't need to copy Ariel."
"Why did she have to get sick now," Gloria grumbled.
"Come on let's go home," Daisy sighed and the girls headed back to the palace.
Topaz kept an eye on Crystal Tokyo Elementary. She knew which child she was looking for and she was determined she would find her today.
Finally she saw a group of girls leaving the playground together. She saw the child she was looking for. Her red braids made her easy to find. "There you are Tiffany Aino," she laughed. She held up her hand and a beam of energy came out. It headed right for Tiffany.
Annika suddenly gave a gasp and stopped in her tracks. "What is it Annika," asked Maggie.
"I feel a strong force," Annika replied. The other girls stopped.
"Tiffany you had better go somewhere safe," Gloria ordered. Tiffany nodded her head. She started to walk away when a beam of energy hit her. She screamed as she lost all movement. "I can't move," she shouted.
"Got you child," laughed Topaz. "Now it is time to destroy you."
"Transform everyone," shouted Gloria and everyone held up their pens.
"VENUS POWER MAKE UP!"
"MARS POWER MAKE UP!"
"JUPITER POWER MAKE UP!"
"PLUTO POWER MAKE UP!"
"NEPTUNE POWER MAKE UP!"
"URANUS POWER MAKE UP!"
"SATURN POWER MAKE UP!"
"Hold it right there," Chibi Venus shouted. "I do not know what your intentions are but you will leave Tiffany alone."
"Don't interfere brats," Topaz shouted. "I am going kill this child and I won't take any interference from you."
"Not if I can help it," shouted Chibi Jupiter and she powered up. "JUPITER DEADLY LIGHTENING BOLT!" Her attack flew out and hit Topaz. Tiffany was freed from the energy. Chibi Pluto ran forward and grabbed her.
"All right," roared Topaz in rage. "Now I am really angry." She held up a stone and it began to glow. The tree behind the Chibi Scouts came to life. Chibi Mars powered up. "MARS FIRESTORM!" The tree youma laughed and blocked the attack from hitting him. It ricocheted off and hit the Chibi Scouts. They all screamed as they went down.
"Minna," cried Tiffany. "This is all my fault just like everything else is."
"Now I cam destroy the Chibi Scouts and this child," laughed Topaz.
"Hold it right there," called a new voice. Topaz looked up and saw Cosmic Moon standing there. "How dare you attack an innocent child. I am the agent of love and justice, a pretty soldier in a sailor suit. I am Sailor Cosmic Moon and in the name of the moon I will punish you."
"Just in time Cosmic Moon," groaned Chibi Neptune.
Cosmic Moon jumped down next to the Chibi Scouts. "We don't have Chibi Mercury with us today so we need to do our best. Chibi Venus use you attack from behind to hit the youma. Chibi Uranus you help her. Chibi Pluto you take care of Tiffany. Chibi Mars and Chibi Jupiter you deal with her."
"And what about me," asked Chibi Saturn.
"Help take care of Tiffany," Cosmic Moon replied.
"All right girls enough talking," shouted Topaz. "Time to fight. Get them my youma."
The tree youma approached the Chibi Scouts. Chibi Venus and Chibi Uranus ran behind him and powered up.
"VENUS BEAUTIFUL SHOCKWAVE!"
"EARTHQUAKE TEMORS!"
The youma did not see the attacks and got hit. He screamed in pain and weakened.
"Now Cosmic Moon," shouted Chibi Saturn who was standing in front of Tiffany.
Cosmic Moon got out her scepter. "MOON PRINCESS HEALING KISS!" The attack flew out and hit the youma restoring back to a tree.
"I'll remember this," shouted Topaz. "And I will be back." With that she disappeared.
"Is everyone all right," asked Cosmic Moon.
"We're fine," Chibi Uranus replied.
"Tiffany it's okay," Chibi Pluto stated. Everyone saw that Tiffany was crying.
"What are you crying about," asked Chibi Venus as she powered down.
"I'm sorry," sobbed Tiffany. "All this is my fault."
"How is it your fault," asked Rini gently.
"Because everything is always my fault," cried Tiffany and she ran off.
"Tiffany," called the others.
"Are you sure that is what she said," Mina asked Rini later.
"Yes," Rini replied. "She told us that everything is always her fault."
"Someone had to have been telling her this all of her life," Amy pointed out. She turned to Mina. "I want you to bring her in to see me."
"Very well," Mina sighed. "I'll bring her to you later on today."
"Tiffany," Gloria came into her room. Tiffany was sitting on the bed. "It wasn't your fault. We are fighters for justice. It is our job to protect people."
"But you all were fighting because of me," sobbed Tiffany.
"So what," Gloria cried. "I am not going to let anything happen to you and neither are my friends so stop blaming yourself."
Tiffany gazed at Gloria. "You always say that to me Grandma," she thought. She reached over and hugged Gloria tightly.
"Is everyone okay in here," asked Mina as she walked in.
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany replied wiping her eyes.
Mina sat down on the bed beside Tiffany and placed her hand on the child's face. "I want you to come with me for a while," she said. "Amy wants to talk to you."
"Are you going to put me in the therapy room," Tiffany asked in sheer terror.
"No," Mina assured as she hugged the child. "She just wants to talk for a few minutes. If you like I will stay with you."
Tiffany tightened her grip on Mina's arm and nodded her head.
"Please sit down," Amy pointed to the couch. Tiffany and Mina sat down. Tiffany kept a tight grip on Mina's arm. Amy got out her notebook and sat down across from them. "Rini told me that you said that everything is always your fault."
"Well everything is my fault," Tiffany choked. "It always is. I'm a stupid clumsy fool who cannot do anything right."
"You've said that before," Mina pointed out.
"And who tells you that Tiffany," Amy asked gently.
"What do you mean," asked Tiffany in alarm.
"Someone has to be telling you this," Amy explained. "Who is it?"
"NO," Tiffany screamed. She threw her arms around Mina and howled. "I won't tell. I won't tell."
"I think we had better end this session," Mina stated as she held the frightened child close to her. "We have a party to get ready for tonight anyway."
"I agree," Amy sighed. "But I want to talk with you later." Mina nodded in agreement and left carrying the sobbing child with her.
"I'm sorry," Tiffany said back in Mina's quarters. "I should not have yelled like that."
"Honey it's okay," Mina assured her. "Everyone gets upset once in a while."
"So I can cry," asked Tiffany.
"Of course," Gloria came in. "Annika always cries and Aunt Raye lets her."
"Gloria," Mina muttered. "We have to get ready for the party tonight."
Gloria pulled a face. "How boring," she moaned. "Ariel is lucky. I wish I had the flu right now."
"No you don't," Mina told her. She turned to Tiffany. "Aunt Lita is loaning you one of Daisy's dresses that she outgrew a few years ago. Why don't you let me do something pretty with your hair tonight?"
"Okay," Tiffany smiled. Her mother never did her hair.
Asai sat and waited for Mina to finish with the girls. "What's going to happen when Gloria is a teenager," he asked Artemis.
"We'll be waiting twice as long," Artemis replied.
Mina emerged with Gloria and Tiffany. Mina had done Tiffany's hair up in green bow. Her red hair was loose and wavy. Mina was amazed at how beautiful it was.
"Now don't you girls look pretty," Asai commented.
"Thank you Sir," Tiffany replied.
"Drop the formalities," Mina ordered. She held up a camera. "Let me get a picture of the two of you."
Gloria put her arm around Tiffany. Tiffany gave a big smile and for the first time for as long as she could remember she felt happy. Mina clicked the camera and the picture was taken.
"What are you planning," Annika asked Gloria suspiciously.
"Why do you ask that," Gloria replied in an innocent voice. They had been at the party for an hour now and both of them were bored.
"You have that look on your face that tells me you are planning something," Annika told her. "So what is it?"
"Tiffany needs to be happy," Gloria stated. "I am going to play a prank to make her laugh."
"And what are you going to do," asked Annika.
Gloria giggled and pulled a frog out of her pocket. "I am going to put this on the table," she laughed. Annika giggled. This was going to be funny.
"Annika," Raye came up behind them.
"Mama," Annika quickly turned to face her mother.
Raye knelt down by Annika and pushed her hair out of her face. "I want you to come with me for a while."
"Why Mama," asked Annika as she hugged Raye.
"I just do," Raye replied. She took Annika's hand and led her away.
"She must have sensed I was up to something," Gloria muttered. She went off in search of Tiffany and found her standing by Mina. Gloria went up to her and took her hand. "Come with me."
"Where are we going," asked Tiffany.
Gloria pulled the frog out of her pocket. "I am going to put this on the dessert table," she giggled.
Tiffany laughed. "That is going to be funny," she replied. "Oh Grandma you always know how to cheer me up."
Gloria and Tiffany went over the dessert table. Gloria carefully placed the frog on the table. Then she and Tiffany stepped back to watch the fun. Neo-Queen Serenity came up to the table. "Ooh cakes," she sighed. "I am ready for dessert." She got a plate and started piling it with cakes. Suddenly the frog jumped up and landed right in the center of her plate. Serenity gave out a loud scream and dropped her plate. Everyone came running over.
"What is it," Endymion cried in alarm.
"A frog," Serenity yelled. "There was a frog on the table."
"Gloria," shouted Mina as she ran over. Her daughter was doubled over in laughter. Tiffany was giggling too. "Can't you go for one evening without a prank?"
"I was trying to make Tiffany laugh," Gloria shouted.
"Well now you can come with me," Mina snapped. "Palla is staying with Ariel so you can just go and stand in the corner of Aunt Amy's quarters."
"Aunt Mina please," sobbed Tiffany running over. "This is my fault. She was only trying to cheer me up. Please don't punish her."
"I'm sorry Tiffany but Gloria know she is not to play pranks at these parties," Mina replied. She dragged Gloria off. Upset, Tiffany ran out onto the balcony. There was no one out there since it was a cold night. Tiffany leaned over and began to cry hard.
Suddenly a hand grabbed her by the nape of her neck. Tiffany gave a cry of pain. She looked up and saw Celine standing angrily over her. "M...m...mother," she gasped.
"Do what you are supposed to do," Celine snapped. "Stop being the lazy fool you are and get something accomplished for a change."
"I haven't done anything wrong," Tiffany sobbed.
"STOP THAT CRYING," Celine shouted as she spanked Tiffany hard across her backside. "You are supposed to get the Venus crystal and get back to our time. You aren't doing anything worthwhile. Now what are you supposed to say?"
"I'm a stupid, clumsy fool who can't do anything right," Tiffany choked as she wrapped her arms around herself.
"And don't you forget that," Celine snapped. "Watch what you say around my grandmother and Amy. I don't want them finding anything out. Now find that damn crystal and get home."
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany whispered. She watched as Celine disappeared and then shakily went back into the party. Mina had just gotten back. Taking a deep breath, Tiffany walked over to her. She wrapped her arms around Mina's waist.
"There you are," Mina exclaimed and she picked Tiffany up. She noticed Tiffany's tear stained face. "Are you okay Sweetie?"
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany whispered. "Please love me Great-grandma. I need your love." She rested her head on Mina's shoulder and was pleased when the woman tightened her embrace around her.
That night Gloria lay in her bed listening to Tiffany toss and turn. She was glad she managed to get her to laugh tonight but when her parents came and got her Gloria noticed that Tiffany had been crying again. She tried talking to Tiffany but the child did not say anything. "She's like Annika in a way," Gloria thought. "But she is also so different. She acts like she's afraid people are going to hit her."
Suddenly Tiffany sat up screaming. "Daddy," she screamed. "Grandma, Great-grandma help me!"
"Tiffany," Gloria said as she got up. She ran over to Tiffany and was surprised when the younger girl wrapped her arms around her in a death grip. Still screaming Tiffany hung on tight to Gloria.
The door opened and Mina and Asai flew in. Mina sat down on the bed and pulled the screaming child into her arms. "It's okay Tiffany," she soothed. "You're safe."
"Dad," Gloria hissed to Asai. "What is wrong with Tiffany?"
"I don't know honey," Asai sighed as he watched his wife calm the child down. "I am glad you are being nice to her."
"Asai I am going to let her sleep with us tonight," Mina informed him as she stood up with Tiffany in her arms. "I think it's for the best."
"I agree," Asai replied.
"Can I come too," asked Gloria not wanting to be alone all of the sudden.
"Of course," Mina replied. Everyone went into the master bedroom and got settled. Tiffany felt safe between her grandmother and great-grandmother. She fell into a peaceful sleep.
The next few days were uneventful. Topaz did not try to get Tiffany again. Ariel got over the flu. Mina took Tiffany to see Amy but the child refused to reveal anything. Tiffany found herself wanting to stay with Mina and Asai more and more. She had not been this happy since her father left. "If only I could live with my grandma in the future," she thought. "She and my great-grandma love me so much. Mother doesn't. I heard her telling my step-father she did not want a daughter." Tiffany felt a tear roll down her face. She had heard Celine say that two months ago and it still burned a hole in her heart.
"There you are," Topaz suddenly appeared in front of her. "Now I can get you."
"Go away," Tiffany screamed. She turned around and tried to run but a vine came out of nowhere and wrapped around her ankle. Tiffany fell down.
"Got you," laughed Topaz. "There is no escape for you little one. I will kill you."
"Not if I can help it," shouted a voice. Topaz turned and saw Sailor Venus, Sailor Jupiter, Sailor Chibi Venus and Sailor Chibi Mars standing there. "Let that child go," commanded Sailor Venus.
"Not a chance," Topaz shouted. She began to power up.
"JUPITER OAK EVOLUTION!" The attack flew out and released Tiffany from the vine. Chibi Venus ran over and pulled her to her feet.
"Come on," she gasped. Get to someplace safe."
Tiffany nodded. She started to run but Topaz saw her. "Get back here you brat," she shouted and she hurled an energy burst at Tiffany.
Suddenly Chibi Venus jumped in the way and took the full brunt of the attack. She screamed as the beam went right through her. A crystal shot out of her.
"Chibi Venus," screamed Venus.
"No Chibi Venus," cried Chibi Mars as tears fell down her face. In anger she powered up.
"MARS FIRESTORM!"
"VENUS LOVE AND BEAUTY SHOCK!"
The two attacks hit Topaz who screamed in pain and crumpled. At that moment Cosmic Moon appeared.
"Now Cosmic Moon," shouted Jupiter who had picked Tiffany up. The child had fainted. Venus dashed over to tend to her daughter.
"Right," called Cosmic Moon and she pulled out her scepter. "MOON PRINCESS HEALING KISS!"
"No," Topaz screamed. "I will not be defeated!" The attack washed over her and she disappeared.
"How is she," Chibi Mars asked as she rushed to Chibi Venus's side.
"We need to get her to Amy," Venus replied. She swept Chibi Venus up in her arms. In her hand she clutched the crystal that came out of her.
When Tiffany came too she was in the palace hospital. She moaned and woke up. "Well it's about time," Mina stated as she took Tiffany's hand in hers. "You have been out for a while."
"How's Gloria," asked Tiffany anxiously.
"She's fine," Mina replied. "Right now she is resting peacefully. Asai is with her."
"I'm sorry," Tiffany choked. "She got hurt because of me."
"Stop all of this self blame," Amy ordered. "Gloria was doing her job. We are all proud of her."
"I was wondering," Mina began as she dug in her pocket. "If this is what you are looking for." Mina pulled out an orange crystal.
Tiffany took it in her hand and felt a surge of power. She held it up. "VENUS CRYSTAL POWER MAKE UP!" Stars and hearts surrounded her. Her clothes melted into a yellowish orange uniform and a navy bow.
"You are Sailor Chibi Crystal Venus aren't you," asked Mina.
"Yes Ma'am," Chibi Crystal Venus replied. "I am your great-granddaughter. Gloria is my grandmother."
"So you came back for the Venus crystal," Amy concluded.
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany replied as she powered back down. She turned to Mina. "I wish I could stay here with you."
Mina smiled and knelt down. "Maybe you can stay for a while longer," she said.
"Really," Tiffany's eyes lit up. "I can stay with you."
"No you cannot," Sailor Pluto appeared. "I'm sorry little one but you must go back."
"Please let me stay here," Tiffany begged but Pluto shook her head.
"You must go home," she repeated. "Besides I know two people who are anxiously waiting for your return."
"Who," asked Tiffany.
"Your grandmother and great-grandmother," Pluto replied. "They both miss you."
"I guess I'll go back then," Tiffany sighed. "But only because they miss me."
Mina picked Tiffany up. "You are welcome to come back and visit," she stated.
Amy came over too. "Talk to my future self," she suggested. "I could not help you here but maybe I can help you in the future."
"I will," Tiffany replied.
"So you really have to leave," asked Gloria sadly. She and her parents were walking Tiffany toward the Gates of Time.
"I'm afraid so," Tiffany sighed.
"I'll miss you," Gloria stated as she hugged Tiffany.
"I'll miss you too," Tiffany replied. "But I will see you in a few minutes grandma."
"I have something for both of you," Asai said. He gave each of them a picture. It was the picture taken of the two of them on the night of the party. Both of them in princess gowns and big smiles.
"I'll keep it forever," Tiffany promised.
"Me too," Gloria added.
Mina hugged Tiffany tightly. "Goodbye and good luck Darling," she whispered. "And remember that you are loved."
"Goodbye," Tiffany whispered. "I love you Great-grandma."
"Goodbye," Asai hugged Tiffany.
"Will I see you again," Gloria asked.
"You will," Tiffany replied. "I love you grandma." Tiffany hugged everyone again and then went through the time gate. Gloria turned to her mother. "Mom will I ever see her again?"
"I guarantee it," Mina replied as she hugged her daughter.
Tiffany arrived in her time and saw Mina, Gloria and Celine all waiting for her. Gloria held out her arms. "Grandma," Tiffany shouted as she ran into Gloria's arms.
"Hi Darling," Gloria hugged Tiffany tightly. "I missed you."
"I missed you," Tiffany added. She held up the picture. Gloria smiled and held up hers. It was old and weathered but you still see the two girls in it clearly. "You kept all this time?"
"Of course," laughed Gloria.
"Welcome to the team Tiffany," Mina told her. "I know you will make us proud."
"Thank you Great-grandma," Tiffany replied. She glanced over at Celine but only saw a sour look in her mother's eyes. Tiffany held on tightly to Gloria as they walked back to the palace. Pluto was right that Mina and Gloria both loved her. "One day," she thought. "I will go back where Great-grandma can be my mom and Grandma can be my sister."
Lady Daphne was furious. "Topaz failed," she snarled. "Well I will make sure that the crystal scout of Neptune does not awaken."
To be continued...