In God's Hands: A Princess and Her Knights.
Destiny shot up in bed. The gentle light of Sol hit her face.
*Today's the day,* she thought happily.
"Hi Des!"
She looked over to see her cousin Reenie, the four asteroid soldiers, and two others.
One was male. He had short, spiky black hair, and slightly slanted blue eyes. His eyes gave away the anxiety he was holding inside. His skin was very darkly tanned. He wore his formals. This was Prince Maximillian Brian Waters.
The other was female. She had long jade-green hair that reached below her knees. Her skin was a lot fairer then her brother's. She had gentle, doe-brown eyes. She had on a full-skirted formal forest-green dress, with matching pumps, and silver heels. This was Princess Jennifer Cora Waters.
"Hiya!"
Reenie hugged Destiny. "You're fourteen today. And today you'll become a senshi leader, just like me."
Destiny got up. "Um... Maxie... Could you turn away a minute? I have to change."
"Okay..." Maxie turned his back to them all, muttering a few things.
"Oh never mind..." Destiny grabbed her clothes and ran into her bathroom. "I'll change in here," she said from behind the door.
Maxie tugged at the heavy sword at his side. "Why the fuck did Dad make me wear this thing anyway... It's annoying..."
"Oh, I dunno," said June. "I think it's kinda cool. It makes you look like those medieval princes..."
Maxie cut her off. "That's exactly what I don't want to look like! I wanna have formal attire that includes jeans, spikes, and all that stuff, just like Max has!"
"Well Max is kind of psycho... Why can't he be more like his sister?" asked Celia.
"Max just has... Problems... I mean, he actually enjoys being immortal!"
Destiny walked back out in her princess dress. (The one that was described in chapter one.) "Done."
"Is my lipstick smeared?" asked Vaesah.
"Of all people to worry about their make-up," muttered June.
"Hey, I want to look pretty... Can't us tomboys want to look pretty?" asked Vaesah with her hands on her hips.
"I personally don't care what I look like," replied June. "It's the inside that counts and..."
"Oh shut up!" shouted Vaesah. "I've heard that stupid speech enough in my life, I don't care to hear it again!"
June and Vaesah continued arguing.
"Um... Could you two take it outside?" asked Parah. "I don't like fighting..."
June and Vaesah shot angry glares at Parah.
"Um... Okay... Fight all you want," said Parah, backing away.
"Could we please try and get along!?" asked Reenie, annoyed. "This is a special day for Des, and I'd rather not have it ruined for her."
Vaesah looked down. "Sorry Des... But she never respects me, or my opinions!"
"Like you respect mine?!"
They began shouting at each other again.
Reenie sighed. "That's it..." She grabbed the two and pushed them out of the room, where they kept on fighting.
Destiny breathed a sigh of relief. "Those two are impossible... If one said the moon was made of cheese, the other would say it was made of broccoli..."
"Ew... Broccoli..." Reenie stuck a finger in her mouth, to show her dislike for the miniature trees.
"Oh, I don't know," said Jennifer. "Broccoli is very good for you, and when you put cheese on it..."
"Cheese over broccoli? That sounds even more disgusting!"
"Finally someone agrees with me!" said Maxie.
"I'm sorry Jen, but I'll have to go with these two," said Destiny. "I detest the stuff."
"That's a shame Destiny," said Jennifer. "It really does make a good snack.
"To her, dill pickles make a good snack too," whispered Maxie to Reenie and Destiny, snickering.
Reenie ran into the bathroom, holding her stomach, hoping she wouldn't throw up.
Jennifer crossed her arms and glared at Maxie. "Whatever is so funny?"
"Oh, I was just telling them how you like mu shu turkey wraps. Ya know... That turkey, dipped in plum sauce."
"Please Maxie, stop," pleaded Destiny. "You're making us sick."
"I like plums!" declared Parah.
Celia put an arm around Parah. "Parah... Plums, and plum sauce, are two very different things," she whispered.
"Oh..."
"What is with the sudden interest in my diet?!" asked Jennifer angrily.
"We're not interested!" said Reenie. "But he sure seems to be!" She pointed at Maxie.
Maxie laughed.
"If I weren't a royal princess, I'd punch you!" spat Jennifer.
Maxie kept laughing. "And I'm sure I'd be so very hurt..."
"Hmph! Do excuse me ladies, but I need a glass of water." Jennifer stomped off.
"You really should try and be a bit nicer to her Maxie."
"Hell no! After all the hell she put me through as a child? All the, Maximillian, eat your food this way, and Maximillian, wear this, not that... It was more then I could take!"
Vaesah and June sulked back in.
"Finished arguing yet?"
They both nodded.
"Good. Happy birthday Des." Reenie hugged Destiny.
Destiny returned the embrace. "Thank you."
"Happy birthday," said a deep voice. There stood the dark figure of Dallas in the doorway.
"Good morning Dallas. "
"Here," he said, handing her a box. "This is for you."
"Why... Thank you..."
"Open it, faerie."
She took the lid off of the box. "It's... The Violet Diamond!?"
"A sculpture. Just a sculpture. I used what sorcery I know to make diamond, and color it purple... Then cut it."
"You can't make diamond," said Maxie. "That's defying Einstein's law. E=MC2. Matter cannot be created or destroyed, it can be changed, or converted into heat or energy..."
"I know," Dallas interrupted. "Strong sorcerers can defy those laws, but I merely took an ordinary rock and changed it."
"It's pretty Dallas. Thank you." Destiny grinned.
"Of course princess. I thought you may want a little something like this. I myself consider diamonds, gold, and things like that worthless. But I know your kind value them and find them beautiful. So I give this to you."
Destiny nodded. "I thank you."
"You were kind of supposed to save that for later Dallas."
"I wanted to give it to her now. Is that a problem?"
"I guess not..."
Dallas nodded. "I didn't think so. Now I'm supposed to go help them decorate Destiny. I'll see you later." He disappeared.
"I think he's kind of a cutie," said June.
"Then why don't you go out with him?" asked Celia teasingly.
June glared at Celia.
"When is your induction?" asked Maxie.
"In the middle of Sol... The rejoicing begins at the rising of Kokuki."
"My induction began at the rise of Selene," said Reenie.
"I know... But Sol is a star... And I am supposed to be inducted under the light of a star. Then the feasting and merry-making comes when a moon rises."
"Your... Your soldiers Des. Have you thought about them?"
Destiny's eyes slightly widened. "Oh... I nearly forgot."
"You've never seen them before!?"
"Nope... Never."
"I wonder... What they'll be like..."
"Oh Des you ninny! You know very well what they'll be like... Mary, and the princesses of Trinisiah and Blaire!"
"Reenie... Trinisiah and Blaire have no princesses."
"Oh..."
"Hi!" came a high-pitched voice from behind the door.
There stood a tall stately figure, with long, curly red hair. Her skin was lightly tanned, and she wore a full red dress covered with the most elaborate of jewels and embroidery. She wore a red ruby around her neck and a jeweled barrette in her hair. She had finely arched eyebrows and hazel eyes, thickly lashed. Her lips were thin, painted red. This was Princess Marlena Lee of Glossiah.
:) "By the way... It's pronounced Mar-lay-na. Not Marleena. Mar-lay-na as in Marlena off of Days of Our Lives,
Destiny, recognizing the voice, muttered something and turned around. "What the hell are you doing here Mary?"
"I just wanted to come and wish you a happy birthday..."
"Well that's nice and all, but what did you really come here for?"
Marlena frowned. "We both know I am going to be one of the unknown soldiers. So I just wanted to lay down some rules..."
"Excuse me," interrupted Vaesah, "but I do believe she is the leader. She makes the rules, not you."
"But I am definitely the most mature," said Marlena, twirling a strand of red hair around her finger. "And I think I should have a say too."
"Well you don't," said June with a smirk. "So fuck off, friend."
Marlena glared at June. "I believe I rank higher then you little girl, so I would watch your words."
Destiny stood up straight. "They're right Mary. I do make the rules. I am leader... And if you don't straighten up your act, you'll find yourself ranking last out of the others."
Marlena sniffed. "You're so stuck up Destiny. Why can't you be a lady, like your mother, instead of a prude little brat who looks down on everyone who ranks below her... Quite sad..."
A vein popped out of Destiny's head.
"And the way you Harmonians keep your skin so pale makes you look so horrid... And how you were born with such strange eyes, I'll never know... That goes for Reenie also..."
That drove Reenie over the edge. "You, get out, now!" Reenie literally picked Marlena up and threw her out of the room, right into a passing servant, who was pushing a cart of dirty laundry.
Marlena fell into the cart.
"You horrible, horrible woman!" she screeched at Reenie. "My mother will hear of this!"
"And what will your mother do?" asked Reenie with a smirk. "Declare war? If that is to be her course of action, then she will be horribly outnumbered and easily defeated."
Marlena jumped out of the cart and tried to run back into the room and lunge at Reenie, but Maxie slammed the door in her face.
Marlena slammed her forehead on the door and fell back, in tears.
"What the hell is going on!?"
There stood Lance and Jay.
Lance was trying to keep from laughing.
Jay was giggling into his sleeve.
"That horrible rabbit threw me in that!" Marlena thrust a finger in the direction of the cart.
"Well... Um..." Lance helped Marlena up. "Perhaps we should send you home."
"But I'm going to be one of the unknown soldiers! I have to be here!"
Lance crossed his arms. "You don't know that."
"But I do! There's got to be a soldier for every planet!"
Jay chuckled. "How do you know you're the one?"
"I'm the princess, and heir to Glossiah's throne! No other could possibly be a Sailor Glossiah!"
"We will find out today," said Lance. "Come on now... Let's get you cleaned up."
Marlena followed Lance away from them.
"That was sweet!" yelped Jay in glee. "What happened!?"
"Let's just say Marlena crossed the line."
"Well anyway... What do you think your soldiers will be like?"
"I don't care what they're like. I just hope they like me."
"You're a loveable one Des. How could they not like you?"
"We're here!" called out four voices in unison.
There stood Danielle, Willow, Jasmine, and Deimos.
"Hi guys!" exclaimed Destiny with glee.
"Hiya Des. Happy birthday." Jasmine grinned.
"Thanks."
"How do you like my dress guys?" Danielle twirled around. "Isn't it pretty? Setsuna made it just for me!"
"Setsuna made your dress!?" Jennifer's eyes flashed with a glint of jealousy.
"Yep! Michiru is real close to Setsuna and was able to convince Setsuna to let Max watch the gates long enough to make a dress for me!"
Danielle was decked out in a long silky dress of aqua. It fell to her ankles, leaving a train behind her. It was held up by tiny seed pearl straps. She had golden arm clasps around both her upper arms. She had a band of dark blue sapphires around her waist. She wore a headdress, which was a band of gold around her head, topped with transparent aqua and dark blue material, set with a few sapphires. She wore Cinderella slippers on her feet.
"She made that whole outfit for you!?" Reenie gasped. "Did you have to pay for it!? Uranus's budget has been a bit limited since Haruka-chan won't stop spending money on battle ships and things like that... Stuff she can drive. How did you ever get the money..."
Danielle glared a bit at Reenie. "For one, if we had had to pay for it, my mother would have, not Michiru. And for two, Uranus is having no financial problems whatsoever. We did not have to pay for it... Setsuna made it out of friendship for me."
"It's really pretty," Jennifer said in awe.
"Thank you." Danielle bowed.
"Why didn't you two get dresses from Setsuna?" asked Reenie to the twins. "Those don't look like her type of design."
They shrugged.
"She didn't have time to make all of us one." Willow grinned. "So our tailor made ours. She's really quite good... But she had to make clothes already designed."
"I see."
"What's up my homie g's!?" There stood Max, all dressed up in his "formals", grinning cheesily at Destiny. "Hiya tootsie roll."
Destiny threw a shoe at Max. "What are you doing?"
"Jeez... Just came down to see all my thugs. See, you're my bitch, she's my bitch, she's my bitch, she's my bitch, she's my bitch, and she's my bitch." He said that pointing a finger at Destiny, Reenie, Jennifer, Danielle, Willow, and Jasmine.
"And you and you," he said, pointing at Jay and Maxie, "are my homie G thugs."
Jay laughed. "Well homie G thug, how about we take your other homie G thug, and your bitches, and go get some breakfast?"
"Breakfast... What's on the menu? Extra crispy Harmonian bacon?"
"If you wish." Jay grinned.
"Yes! Setsuna never cooks. Let alone, extra crispy bacon."
"Well Max, her being the guardian of time and all..."
Max waved a hand to silence Willow. "Come on my bitches and thugs, let's go get something to eat!"
They all paraded down to the kitchen, stomachs churning with hunger.
"Hi kids!" said a plump, jolly looking woman, with rosy red cheeks and straight platinum blonde hair. This was Florence, the head cook in the Harmonian kitchens. "Hungry this morning?"
"You bet!" they exclaimed in a chorus.
"How about eating in the dining room today? It's a big day for our princess." She smiled at Destiny.
"Well..." Destiny grinned brightly, loving to eat in the dining room. "Okay!"
Just for the fun of it, they all tried to walk like ladies and gentlemen, shoulders straight, chest out, noses up.
At least that was Max's "gentleman" pose.
Florence laughed loudly, seeing how humorous they looked. "You kids want the whole menu?"
"Hell yeah!" yelled the three boys together.
Florence nodded and rushed out of the dining room.
Jay, Max, and Maxie let out whoops of happiness.
"How can you eat so much!?" asked Jasmine in shock.
"We're growing boys!" answered Max. "We need much more food then you girls do!"
"True," agreed Danielle.
"Hey, whatever happened to Jennifer?"
Maxie shrugged. "Her pride was hurt. I'll bet she left."
"No, I did not leave!" There stood Jennifer in the immense doorway, with her arms crossed.
"Well, well, well, welcome back 'sis." Maxie chuckled.
Jennifer took a deep breath and sat down beside Willow. "What are you guys doing?"
"Waiting for the whole menu."
"Excuse me?"
"After a little... Incident with Mary... We all came down here for breakfast. The fly boys over there ordered the whole menu."
Jennifer stared wide-eyed at the boys.
"What?" asked Jay, in response to being stared at.
Jennifer shook her head.
"Here you are children!" Florence beamed, as a lot of cooks and servants started setting platters down on the table.
"Mmmm! Devilled eggs!" Jennifer dug in.
"Yuck!" Reenie refused to look at the devilled eggs and helped herself to some fruit and scrambled eggs instead. She spread some freshly made butter on some toast.
"Hey Reenie, do you have the raspberry preserves over there?" asked Jasmine.
Jay grinned and held them up as he piled his plate with as much food as he could. "Looking for these?"
"Gimme!" shouted Jasmine.
Willow held her back from making a lunge at Jay.
"Excuse me!" said the same high-pitched voice they heard that morning.
To their disappointment stood Marlena again, all cleaned up from the previous onslaught from Reenie.
Danielle groaned.
"Who invited you?" asked Reenie with a sneer.
"Well, after almost ruining my dress, the least you could do is treat me to that lovely breakfast you have there."
"And if we refuse?" asked Willow.
"What are you gonna do? Call your priss of a mother?"
"Come on Destiny, it's your castle, tell her to go away!"
Destiny was getting a little panicky. Never in her life had she been asked to turn someone out, let alone actually do it.
"I am a guest here in this palace," shot back Marlena. "It would be quite un-regal for her to refuse."
"Guest?" asked Jay. "Um... No one invited you to come here. So you can't really be considered a guest."
That one hurt Marlena, as it was quite a known fact she had feelings for Jay.
"So, unless Destiny says you can stay, I'm afraid you'll have to leave," added Maxie coolly.
Little beads of sweat trickled down Jennifer's forehead, hoping Destiny wouldn't be so cruel as to refuse Marlena's presence.
Destiny closed her eyes. "As we are all quite sure that Marlena will be a soldier under my command by the end of today... It would be quite rude of me to tell her to leave." She sighed. "Mary, you are welcome to join us for breakfast if you so desire."
Reenie elbowed Destiny in the stomach. "What the hell is wrong with you?" she hissed. "You can't just give into her!"
Destiny shook her head. "It isn't in me... To feel hate..."
Reenie sighed and forked some honeydew melon into her mouth.
Marlena scooped some yogurt onto her plate. "Now Destiny, we should begin to discuss business."
"Business?" asked Max, sounding appalled. "For Kami's sake Mary, she hasn't even been inducted yet! Let her enjoy her last day as a normal princess before she has to have 'warrior' added to her title."
Marlena laughed and looked at Max. "Destiny has never been a normal princess, nor will she be a normal queen. She will rule Crystillia, and that is no normal job. Now, as I was saying. I believe that all soldiers should have an equal say in what goes on..."
"Duh Mary," said Reenie. "But the leader, in cases where an unanimous decision cannot be reached, must decide."
"In cases like that, I believe a vote should be taken."
"That wouldn't work!"
"How do you know!?"
"I've been a senshi leader since June thirtieth."
"You've only been in battle once!"
Reenie growled. "That's not true. Both me and Dessy have been in battle many times, as chibi senshi!"
"That doesn't really count." Marlena frowned.
Reenie shook her head. "Hopeless," she muttered to herself.
Breakfast was finished in silence, save for Marlena's constant chatter.
"Kids?" A lady peeked in. "You guys dressed?"
This woman looked much like Allura, except her cheeks were a bit fuller. She had straight honey-blonde hair and misty blue eyes. She wore a periwinkle dress with silver trim. Her skin was tanned slightly. This was Queen Romelle Orla (what the hell was Sven's last name?).
Destiny, nor any of the others, had ever seen this woman in their lives.
"Who are you?" asked Destiny, looking a bit confused.
Romelle also looked confused. "Don't you know me?"
Destiny shook her head. "You resemble my Aunt Ally some. But I'm afraid I don't know you. What about you guys?"
They all shook their heads.
Romelle seemed a bit hurt. "Why... I'm your cousin. I'm first cousin to Allura... I rule the planet Pollux, with my husband... Sven. Don't you know?"
"Wait," said Jay. "I remember a Sven being mentioned once. Was he... The original pilot of the Blue Lion?"
Romelle nodded. "Yes, he was."
Jay shrugged. "I only know his name. Nothing else."
Romelle sighed. "Well, I'm afraid this is the first time I've seen any of you in years. I guess I shouldn't be surprised none of you know me. But I don't know you two." She pointed to Maxie and Jennifer.
"I am Prince Maximillian, of the planet Necon." Maxie bowed his head. "This is my sister, Jennifer."
"Pleased to meet you." Romelle smiled. "I myself have someone I especially want Destiny and Jay to meet."
"Hmm?"
The two siblings looked intently at the woman.
"Come on Katherine. Come out here and meet your cousins."
There was a pause for a minute.
Then suddenly, from the doorway stepped a tall girl. Long white hair tumbled down her back. She had sparkling green eyes. Her skin was tanned, and it was clear she wasn't any weakling. She wore a simple green dress that reached her ankles. Two slender gold bands came around from her back and were joined in the middle by a red jewel of some sort. She had a valiant look about her.
"This is my daughter Destiny. Her name is Katherine."
"Do we call her Katherine?" asked Jay. "Or Kathy?"
"Don't ask my mother what you should be asking me," the girl said in a fearless voice. "Call me Kathy and I'll kill you. If you call me anything besides Katherine, you will call me Kat."
"Kat?"
"Yes. Kat. Either Katherine, or Kat. I have no wish to be called after that old age television host."
They had no idea what she was talking about.
Katherine rolled her eyes.
"Well... I'll let you kids be to get acquainted."
Katherine muttered something.
Romelle left in a worriedly manner.
"Well then... I obviously know who you two are." She pointed at Destiny and Jay. "And I know who you are." She then pointed at Reenie. "But I have no idea who you, you, and you are. Or you, you, and you."
"I told you," said Maxie, getting a bit annoyed by this girl. "My name is Maximillian. And her name is Jennifer," he said, jerking his chin in his sister's direction.
"Don't you have a nick name? You don't look like someone who should be called Maximillian. If you are, I pity you."
Maxie growled. "They call me Maxie."
"Maxine?"
"Maxie!" he roared.
"Close enough. And you? Are you called Jenny? Jen?"
"Jennifer, thank you."
"Well you don't have to get snotty about it!" She then turned her head toward Max. "And you?"
"I am Maxorion Meiou, master of all time!" exclaimed Max, claiming his sister's title for his own, hoping to impress the pretty damsel.
"Whatever." She shrugged off his words. "And what about you three?"
"I am Princess Danielle, and these are my sisters, Jasmine and Willow."
"Of where?"
"Neptune..."
"Neptune... Been there before, long time ago... Never did like it much."
A vein popped out of Danielle's head.
She looked to Destiny. "So... You're gonna be the leader of sailor soldiers eh? I hope I'm not one of them! For one, I'd despise being led into battle by a girl who looks like she's never fought before in her life! And I couldn't stand running around in those stupid little short skirts."
"They're made to look like sailor suits," Destiny replied, trying to keep calm.
"If I do remember correctly, sailor suits are often composed of long pants and some kind of shirt. Never once in my life did I ever see a sailor wearing sleeveless leotards, short skirts that practically climb up your ass, pumps, and any type of shoe they please."
"Hello girls, sorry I wasn't here earlier." Standing before them was a beautiful woman, with plump heart-shaped odangoes and glorious long black hair that fell a little below her knees. She had big yellow eyes and wore a short dress of yellow, with transparent black material that fell below it, down to her ankles. It was held up by thin yellow straps, connected to the dress by two black roses. A yellow ribbon was around her neck and the crystal moon shone on her forehead. This was Luna, known ruler of Mau, and long-time advisor to Queen Serenity. She, like Amalthea, could change from human to animal at will.
"Luna!" Reenie ran and hugged her tightly.
Katherine just stared.
Luna looked at her, and smiled. "White hair... Just like my Artemis."
"Artemis? You're married to a girl?"
They all silently thanked God that Artemis was not there to hear that, for Artemis was always sensitive to the fact that he was named after a female goddess.
Luna laughed and shook her head. "Not at all. Artemis is male, I assure you."
"But... In Greek mythology, Artemis was female. She was the goddess of hunt and chase, and of the moon. The goddess of the moon has many different names, those being Luna, Artemis, Diana, and Selene. I am sure there are others. And the name Luna belongs to you, I presume?"
Luna nodded.
"Well you look like a Luna. The moon mark and everything. Can't say the same for pinky right here," she whispered, pointing to Reenie.
"Who is this, ladies and gents?"
"Her name is Katherine," they all replied. "She's princess of Pollux."
"Ah, Sven and Romelle's girl I presume?"
Katherine nodded. "I received many of my mother and father's genes. Sit down all of you... I'll tell you more about myself. Forgive me for being so rude earlier, I tend to get nervous when I'm around strangers, and get mean... Like my father."
They all did as commanded.
"Well, my mother went through many hardships as a teenager... Her cousin of course, was Allura, but Arus and Pollux weren't exactly buddies. My grandfather's name was Cova, but I can tell you, I'm not proud to have him as an ancestor. His story... See, he wanted to marry Aunt Victoria... Well, she's my great aunt... But anyway, he made a plan to kidnap her, but see, that didn't work out the way he planned... Aunt Orla, Victoria's sister, bore a great resemblance to the almighty queen of Arus. He accidentally kidnapped Orla... And by her, Romelle was born. My Uncle Bandor was also mothered by my Grandmother Orla. Cova then had three children. My deceased Uncle Avoc, Romelle, and Bandor. They say he actually grew to love her... And no longer had a will to live, when she was rescued by my great Uncle Alfor and returned to Arus. He faked loyalty to Zarkon and the Drule Empire... And meanwhile... A secret romance formed between Romelle and her half brother Avoc... Avoc and his followers planned to overthrow Zarkon and Cova after Pollux had taken over Arus... And won the war. To do this he let the old witch Hagar talk him into becoming a Ro-beast... That was his ending. Pollux lost the war, and my mother lost the man she loved. But... Luckily, she found her true soul mate... Sven, the original pilot of Blue Lion."
"That is not all," said Luna. "You forgot something, unless you would rather not discuss it."
"Please do!" cried Destiny, growing more excited with each word of Katherine's family history.
Katherine smirked. "Very well. During Pollux's very temporary alliance with the Drule Empire, Syncline fell for Romelle, as he saw that Romelle was clearly almost Allura's twin. Cova came very close to forcing the two into marriage. But Pollux fell before he could make it happen. Lotor kept Romelle as his captive, and Bandor was named king of Pollux at the age of nine, to rule in his sister's absence. Romelle refused him time and time again, until Lotor finally got tired of her, and threw her into his dreaded pit of skulls. That is where my father found her, and saved her life. Though a part of her heart will always be with Avoc, she loved my father greatly. I was born shortly after they were married. And I was trained in the ways of a warrior."
"Wow..." Destiny looked quite pleased with the girl's tale of her family's past.
Luna nodded. "Destiny seems to have liked your story."
"Momma?" asked a small voice.
There in the doorway stood a little girl, with short lavender hair, done up in heart odangoes like her mother's, with a little pipe curl hanging down from each. She had light purple eyes, and was almost white. She wore black tights, and a short purple dress, complete with little glossy black shoes. This was Diana, only child of Luna and Artemis, and someday to become Reenie's advisor when she became queen. She too bore the crystal moon on her forehead.
"Hi Momma!" yelped the small one.
Diana was a frail girl, although she was barely younger then Reenie herself.
"Tiny little thing, isn't she?" asked Katherine to Destiny.
"Oh, she just needs to have a growth spurts or something. She'll be a very pretty girl someday, rest assured."
Diana looked at Destiny. "It's almost time Des! You gotta transform now. Trinity and Lance are waiting for you in the marble hall.
Destiny nodded and looked to the others. "Wish me luck guys."
"I'll be joining you, so don't worry!" Marlena grinned.
Max muttered something about why he had ever allowed that girl to be born.
"Transform for us," requested Danielle. "So we can see you as a chibi one last time."
Destiny nodded and held up her brooch. "Star Pearl Power, Make-Up!"
There stood Chibi Star, looking a bit solemn.
"Oh Des... Smile! Trust me, being a grown soldier isn't bad!" said Willow.
"You won't miss your chibi form at all!" said Reenie with a grin.
*Don't they understand?* asked Destiny to herself. *This was the form where everything happened... Everything. I've grown with this form... Who cares how much power I'll have when I'm a senshi? I'll miss being a chibi... The little one.* Without a word, she walked from the dining room, and strolled through the palace, heading to the pillared hall.
*I made all my friends, and got to know myself. I've helped to save the universe numerous times in this form.*
People she passed smiled at her and whispered words of encouragement, but she took no notice of them.
*I don't even want to use the Violet Diamond... A long time ago, I wanted it, but now I realize how precious it was to just imagine having it. It seems so not special now that I'm actually going to have it. I'm going to be a freaking warrior... I may die out there! What was I thinking in actually wanting this to happen!?*
"Ah, Dessy."
She heard her mother's voice.
"It's time, hon."
Her father.
"What's the matter sweetie? You look sick."
She felt herself wavering back and forth. What was that? Arms around her waist?
Then all went black.
***
"What?!" yelped Reenie. "Destiny fainted!?"
Willow fell over.
"I don't believe it," muttered Maxie. "The whole world and more waiting for her, and she passes out. Idiot."
"Well... She wasn't acting quite normal when she left the room," said Jasmine. "Perhaps she's sick."
"Who cares if she sick!" yelled Maxie. "She's got a job to do and sick or not, she's got to do it!"
"Maxie!" gasped Jennifer. "That's an awful thing to say!"
"Awful it may be," said Marlena. "But he's right."
"Who is with Destiny right now?" asked Katherine.
"Lance is," answered Trinity. "I should probably go join him soon."
"No," said Max. "Let them be."
Trinity looked at Max and frowned, but nodded, knowing there was a reason for his command.
"Well, are we going to have the induction today?" asked Katherine.
"We have to," said Trinity. "We just have to."
***
"Hon?"
Destiny's eyes fluttered open. "Daddy?"
"I'm right here baby." Lance dabbed at his daughter's forehead with a wet cloth, wiping off the perspiration.
"Daddy, what happened?"
"You passed out."
"Oh..." She rubbed her forehead, trying to ease the pain.
"Do you feel sick?" he asked her.
"Kind of..." She closed her eyes. "Dad, who was Sven?"
Lance looked down. "An old friend."
"Did you know he has a daughter?"
"Yes... You met her?"
"I did."
"She has... A very interesting life story."
"Whatever," he sighed. "Now why did you pass out?"
"I can't do this."
"It's your fate. You have to."
"I don't wanna leave my chibi form behind... No one understands!"
"Reenie would understand. Why don't you talk to her?"
"She is always wanting to grow up! She'd of course just tell me to go ahead with it! And there's no one else who would understand."
"Des, listen..."
"Why should I!?" Destiny was gradually losing her temper. She was slowly regaining a memory, a memory that she had banished from her mind long ago.
Lance could see the anger in her eyes. "Des, what's wrong?"
She jumped out of bed. "You never wanted me!" she screamed at him. "I remember! When I went back in the past... You hated me! You hated me and Chi Chi! You never wanted children at all!"
Lance was startled. "Dessy..."
"You had a huge fight with mom about us, and she ran away, and got captured! Remember!? I tried to warn you that she was in danger! But you told me to go away! You called me a little brat for no reason!"
"You don't understand!" he shouted back at her. "I wasn't even an adult yet Destiny! I was still a carefree kid, living on the edge, hanging around on the streets a lot, going out every night... The thought of getting married and having children, and being tied down didn't appeal to me at the time! I cherished my childhood Des, just like are right now! Yeah, maybe I was being a bit immature, maybe I shouldn't have shot off at you and your mother, but then that makes you no better then me! Because look at you, you have one of the biggest responsibilities in the whole damn galaxy to accept today, and you're laying here in bed, complaining about how you don't want to leave your childhood behind! Well guess what Des!? The damn induction isn't gonna make you grow up! Any decent person never grows up! It just makes you wiser, and more responsible!" He hugged her as tightly as he could. "You're my fucking daughter Des... I love you. I was only a child when I said I never wanted children... I have them now, and I wouldn't trade them for anything in the damn universe. Now be the brave girl I know you are, and go out there, and become Sailor Star. You can do it Des, I know you can."
"Plus the fact," said Max, walking in, "that if you don't, you're holding your soldiers back from becoming senshi. They'll never know who they really are."
"Hello Max."
"Sup Lance, how's life?"
Lance shrugged. "This surely hasn't been one of my better times of the day."
"Understood," said Max. "Des, it's time. You are fourteen today."
"I hate being fourteen." Destiny put her head in her hands.
Max looked to the door. "Trinity, you can come in now."
Trinity entered, holding her hands down in front of her. She had tanned features, and blue-green eyes. She wore Harmonia's crown on her head and bore the mark on her forehead. Her hair was the color of golden-rod on a sunny day. On her head were two pear-shaped odangoes. From each of these odangoes hung down two long strips of hair, each half as long as one of Usagi's. The dress she wore looked much like Kakyuu's, save the little balloon thing at the base of the torso. In place of that was something that resembled a pixie's dress, with the long, sheer skirt hanging down from it. This, without a doubt, was Queen Trinity Cleryse Kurogane.
"Destiny, your fourteenth birthday is nowhere near as bad as mine was."
"Why... What happened on your fourteenth birthday?"
"I'm sure you know that I was raised as a child on Calidyan by Zarkon."
"Yes... I do."
"On my fourteenth birthday was the day he told me I was not a Calidyan princess, but the duchess of Arus that had been presumed dead years ago. I was to marry Syncline and really become a Calidyan princess, someday to be its queen. My fourteenth birthday involved being locked up, a prisoner, in my room, and planning a grand escape, so I could return home. It also involved actually escaping, and then crash-landing into Maxie's planet."
Maxie ran in. "Yeah! My dad told me about the day you came into his palace and woke the Neconian spirits! He said him and Tyran almost had you executed!"
Destiny looked horrified.
"Now, compared to that, does your fourteenth birthday seem so bad?"
"But... You got to go home. You escaped from your prison. Didn't that make things okay?"
Trinity smiled. "That it did. Now think of the good points, out of your bad birthday."
Destiny shrugged. "There are lots of them, I guess."
"Name them to me."
"I'll finally gain the right to fight on my own... And I'll have the Violet Diamond, like I've always wanted. And then I'll have my own group to command, and..."
"You won't have to wear the go-go boots anymore."
"Yeah, and then there'll be a big party afterwards."
"Now what are the bad points?"
"I'll lose my chibi form forever."
"And you'll lose the boots you hate so much."
"And the little annoying pink bows in my hair."
"That's right. And you'll even have new power."
"But no Star Pearl."
"But the Star Pearl will return when you have your own little daughter."
Destiny slightly smiled at the thought.
"Are you ready, Destiny?"
She nodded.
"Then come."
Lance got up and straightened out his cape. "Where's Setsuna Max?"
"Right here." Max opened the portal to Pluto, and out of it stepped the emerald-haired princess.
"We must do it now, Trinity," said Setsuna. "We have to make it before Sol sets."
Destiny rose and smoothed out her skirt. "I'm ready."
Lance and Trinity walked behind her, as Destiny made her way out the door.
The others had formed a procession tunnel, and had their heads bowed.
Destiny walked down the tunnel, head held high, a spark of sorrow in her eyes.
Deep within each heart,
There lies a magic spark,
That lights the fire of our imagination.
And since the dawn of man,
Just the strength of "I can,"
Has brought together people of all nations.
Destiny emerged into the light of the outside, boots clicking against the silken red carpet.
The millions gathered erupted into cheers and applause, seeing their princess about to become their savior.
Destiny held the Star Pearl between her hands, the magic sphere floating, giving off its own magic light.
She looked up, and saw that somehow, her parents had reached the finish line before her. But it wasn't their finish.
It was hers.
Was this really going to be worth it?
There's nothing ordinary,
In the living of each day.
There's a special part,
Every one of us will play.
She suddenly noticed that she was enveloped in sunbeam, as she proceeded down the aisle.
"Go Dessy!" she heard her friends scream.
She looked over and smiled at them, and they flashed her signs and yelled words of encouragement.
Destiny kept her fake smile on her face, but kept walking, slowly, trying to take her time, knowing that once she reached the end, her life would be changed forever.
Feel the flame forever burn,
Teaching lessons we must learn,
To bring us closer to the power of the dream.
As the world gives us its best,
To stand apart from all the rest,
It is the power of the dream that brings us here.
She felt her legs taking her up the steps. She was now at the end. She reached the final step, then stood in front of her parents. She bowed to them.
They bowed back to her, and then Trinity looked out to the crowd. "Ladies, and gentlemen, of Crystillia, and of all other foreigners who may have journeyed here from other galaxies!"
The crowd stopped their cheers, and grew quiet.
Trinity smiled. "Today is a special day, as we all know. I'm sure that many of you were at the induction of Princess Serenity, when she became Sailor Moon. This will be somewhat like that induction, yet it will be different. Serenity knew who her soldiers would be. She trained with them and has known them since she was a small child. For Destiny, it will be the opposite. No one, not even the soldiers themselves, know who Destiny's protectors will be. Soon enough, we will find out.
Destiny became Chibi Star when she was five years old. She has fought side by side with me, and the other soldiers, since even before the beginning of her life. That, I will not explain, but the point I am making is, I am convinced that today, on her fourteenth birthday, she is ready to become a true sailor soldier." She turned Destiny around to face the crowd. "This is your princess, now to become your heroine, someday to be your queen!"
The crowd broke into applause.
Trinity looked toward the sky and closed her eyes, and began to chant something in ancient Harmonian.
From the sky came four lights.
First, there was the white-gowned Bliss, then the lavender gowned Faith.
But there was also one that wore a lacy beige gown and had long dark brown hair. Her eyes were also brown, and she carried a green globe between her hands. Her lashes were long, with tiny pearls at the end of each of them. Her lips were the color of the crimson blood that flows inside of humans. This was the Peacekeeper, Charity.
The other wore a gold dress with unimaginably long sleeves, with the finest gold embroidery. A sheer white scarf came down from her bosom and up from her back, and held in place, a golden amulet. The scarf wrapped around at her thighs and settled on the floor. Her glossy brown hair hung to her feet in two braids held in place by two golden leaves. This was the Peacekeeper, Wisdom.
The four Peacekeepers smiled at Destiny as they descended down from the heavens, and then looked to each other. They stood in a circle, bowed their heads, and closed their eyes.
A beam of light struck out from each of them, coming together in the middle.
Trinity, Serenity, and Kakyuu, who was also present, bowed their heads as well.
Light came from the three queens also, and joined the growing orb of brightness in the middle of the Peacekeepers.
The bodies of the six women collapsed.
Everyone gasped, confused and shocked, at what they were seeing.
Even Destiny herself looked frightened.
Seiya, Yaten, and Taiki knelt by their beloved princess's side, holding her up, trying to revive her.
"That will not be necessary, guardians of Kinmoku," said a sweet, musical voice coming from the orb.
Suddenly, a shape formed in front of them all. It took on the shape of a human, yet it was glowing a brilliant light, hues of pinks, blues, and purples. A pair of beautiful, dark lashed, crystal eyes opened, and they saw lips form. It had beautiful silver hair that fell to its knees. It didn't seem to be wearing any clothes, but it didn't matter. There were no human details about it. The only human thing about it, was the shape of the body, and the fact that it had eyes, a mouth, and hair.
It was the most beautiful thing most had ever seen.
They waited for the light to vanish so they could see the true form of this creature.
It didn't take Destiny long to realize that this was indeed its real self.
"Whenever I walk among mortals," it began, "I often take the form of people, so I may fit in among my surroundings. But today, for the first time since the crowning of your queen, I come to you in my true form. I am Harmonia, the spirit of this planet."
The people did not know what to say. Never before had they seen a goddess.
"As you all know, I am sure, I am a demigoddess that works under Christ the Lord. I can only be, when the Peacekeepers have combined their power. Bliss, Faith, Charity, and Wisdom all gave me their energy. Then there were three others." She looked down at Trinity. "There was Queen Trinity, who stands for the Lord himself... She stands for divinity and holiness. Serenity, is love. And Kakyuu is stars and souls... Otherwise known as life. With these combined, I can be so I may be able to be visible to you all, without taking form of a mortal. I am here today, to give Destiny the power to become Sailor Star, and to also give power, to the other Crystillian soldiers, who will now be revealed."
Destiny grew tense.
"I first introduce to all of you, the soldier of the stars, Princess Destiny Katrina Kurogane. She is the Star Princess, and she will lead the soldiers of Crystillia into battle."
Your mind will take you far.
The rest is just pure heart.
You'll find your fate is all your creation.
Every boy and girl,
As they come into this world,
They bring the gift of hope and inspiration.
Harmonia stood up straight. "I will now reveal the Crystillian Soldiers." She raised a hand. "Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Aries!"
Out of the crowd walked a young girl. She had mid-back length brown hair with red highlights. She had red eyes, much like Reenie's and a very tan complexion. She wore a low-cut bright red dress, with a peek-a-boo neckline. She had a mark, un-planetary, glowing on her forehead. Her eyes appeared to be blank, as she walked forward.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Taurus!"
Down the aisle walked a frail looking girl, who wore a pale pink dress, and had mid-back length, thin, curly hair to match. Her whole face looked far away as she faced Harmonia. She too, bore some sort of mark on her forehead. Her skin was almost as white as sea foam, and all features about her were delicate and small.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Gemini!"
To the surprise of Reenie and the others, and especially to the shock of Sven and Romelle, Katherine stepped out of their protected bubble. Her plain green dress now seemed fit for any princess as she proceeded down the aisle. She walked as if she were already a hero, like the greatest warrior in the universe. Her eyes were not blank, like the others were. Her eyes were full of understanding, as if she had been expecting this.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Cancer!"
The girl who then walked out wore a silver dress and had a beautiful appearance about her. She had glossy black hair, and the dress itself had a Japanese look to it. It was clear she was of some sort of oriental ancestry. Her eyes were big, and clear as the sky. A pearl tiara glittered on her head. As did yet another mark.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Virgo!"
A girl in a dark maroon dress, that covered everything except her hands and face, and very aristocratic looking jewelry stepped away from the others. Her very dark brown hair was piled perfectly on top of her head and her lips were full and pouty. She took careful precaution with each step she took, and used some sort of staff to support herself. Her features were also very small and delicate. She had a very aristocratic air about her.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Libra!"
Everyone gasped.
From the crowd, stepped a very surprised looking young girl. She was a very delicate girl, with two long blonde braids. Her eyes were as blue as the bluest sea. She wore a light blue dress with a slit up the side, and matching heels. She proceeded up the aisle, looking very happy and proud.
Marlena growled. "I don't believe this..."
Up the aisle walked the sister of Marlena and Amber, Princess Jacqueline Florry Lee, of the planet Glossiah.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Scorpio!"
A girl with a short, black dress, and black heels stepped out. She wore dark cosmetics, and her eyes held an intense emotion in them. She walked down the aisle, looking back and forth at the people, a flame of pride sparking in her smile.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Sagittarius!"
A girl in an extremely dark purple and gold dress hurried down the aisle, looking as happy as can be. She almost tripped, but caught herself, looking over every once in awhile and grinning at any who was staring at her.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Capricorn!"
The ginger clad maiden slowly walked down the aisle, taking her time to smile weakly at all of the watching public. Her short-cut auburn hair blew steadily in the wind.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Aquarius!"
A girl clothed in a slinky turquoise dress and an amused smirk, strutted down the aisle. Her Michiru-colored hair fell in gentle waves over her shoulders as she haughtily waved at everyone, and skipped on.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Pisces!"
A small girl, no more then twelve years old, shyly stepped out of the crowd, looking worriedly back at her parents. Her long, gorgeous blue hair fell past her back, and her blue dress left a small train as she trudged to the end of the aisle.
Feel the flame forever burn,
Teaching lessons we must learn,
To bring us closer to the power of the dream.
The world unites in hope and peace.
We pray that it will always be.
It is the power of the dream that brings us here.
Destiny looked at all of her soldiers, as they stood on both sides of her.
*Who are these people?* she asked herself.
Harmonia looked out over her people. "I am sure a lot of you know these girls. And I'm sure you are wondering why it was chosen to give these girls the names of the Zodiac. As you know, Destiny will someday be queen of the stars, she represents them. It was only appropriate to give her soldiers names that also represent the stars. You may also note, there is no Sailor Leo. Leo is governed by the sun, which is a star. If Destiny could not be Sailor Star, she would most definitely be a Sailor Leo. That also is her zodiac sign. I will now introduce to all of you, the Zodiac soldiers." Harmonia opened her hand. "Come to me, sacred tear of mine!"
The Violet Diamond appeared, and settled in Harmonia's hand.
"I give you, Princess Ember Ohitsujino, Sailor Aires!" She aimed the Diamond's light at Ember, and she was in a sailor suit of red and silver. Her hair was in a long braid, tied with a red ribbon.
:) "The senshi's suits will not be thoroughly described just yet, as I have already made this story too long. " .
"I give to you, Princess Gabriella Oushino, Sailor Taurus!"
The light hit Gabriella, and she was then in a metallic pink and dark green senshi outfit. Her hair hung loose.
"I give to you Princess Katherine (WHAT THE HELL IS SVEN'S LAST NAME), Sailor Gemini!"
Katherine was then in a periwinkle blue and rich purple senshi outfit. Her hair was done up Princess Leia style (kind of... Ya know, bagel buns) and two long strips hung down from each of those that reached her thighs.
"I give to you, Princess Celina Kanino, Sailor Cancer!"
The oriental Celina was then in a black and silver senshi outfit. Part of her hair was piled on top of her head in a queen-like way and the rest hung down.
"I give to you, Princess Felicity Shojono, Sailor Virgo!"
Felicity wore a maroon and forest-green senshi uniform. Her hair hung loose, kept out of her face with a green bow atop her head.
"I give to you, Princess Jacqueline Urokono, Sailor Libra!"
Jacqueline now sported a very light blue and a darker blue senshi uniform. Her hair was in the two traditional blonde braids.
"I give to you, Princess Morganna Sasorino, Sailor Scorpio!"
The dark one was clad in a maroon and black senshi outfit. Her hair hung freely, in many layers, but was held out of her face with gold barrettes.
"I give to you, Princess Merrianne Ningenno, Sailor Sagittarius!"
Merrianne had an outfit of dark yellow and plum purple. Her hair hung in loose curls around her face.
"I give to you, Princess Julietta Yagino, Sailor Capricorn!"
Julietta's colors were ginger and sugar pink. Her short hair hung very straight, down to her chin.
"I give to you, Princess Callysta Umino, Sailor Aquarius!"
Callysta wore a turquoise and sea green uniform to compliment her hair of the some color. It was done Washu-style (the spiky thing).
"I give to you, Princess Penelope Uono, Sailor Pisces!"
The small girl wore a dark blue uniform with a bow of a slightly lighter blue. Her hair fell down her back, held back with a light blue bow.
Harmonia smiled and placed the Diamond into Destiny's hands. "I give to you, the leader of the Crystillian soldiers, Princess Destiny Kurogane, Sailor Star!"
There's so much strength in all of us,
Every woman, child, and man.
It's the moment that you think you can't,
When you discover that you can.
Destiny closed her eyes, and found herself inside the Diamond's light. She went from wearing her silken dress to a violet and silver senshi uniform. Instead of a bow in the back, were silver fairy wings. She held some sort of staff, which the Diamond set itself upon. She was now the heroine of Crystillia, its princess, and its soldier.
Feel the flame forever burn,
Teaching lessons we must learn,
To bring us closer to the power of the dream.
The world unites in hope and peace.
We pray that it will always be.
It is the power of the dream that brings us here.
"These," said Harmonia, "are the soldiers of Crystillia, the senshi of the Stars!"
All of the senshi, except Destiny, dropped to their knees, holding their hands in a sort of prayer pose.
In unison, they said:
"We pledge our allegiance to the Harmonian royal family, and swear to protect the Crystillian Empire, and Princess Destiny with the very blood of our hearts and light of our souls!"
Feel the flame forever burn,
Teaching lessons we must learn,
To bring us closer to the power of the dream.
The world unites in hope and peace.
We pray that it will always be.
It is the power of the dream that brings us here.
There in the moonlight that night stood twelve soldiers, all very different in character, but yet bonded to one another somehow, by fate of the heavens.
Kokuki rose behind them, illuminating them in moonlight. This was a day to be remembered, for that was the day that senshi power had finally dawned on Crystillia.
Among the collapsed bodies of the four Peacekeepers and her mother, shoulder held by her father's strong hand, stood a young girl who's face was no longer full of fear and worry, but full of courage, and love for all who looked upon her. A new fire burned in her eyes.
Kokuki also glowed a new and brighter light now. For there before it, beautiful and true, stood a Princess and her Knights.
The power of the dream.
The faith in things unseen.
The courage to embrace your fear.
No matter where you are.
To reach for your own star.
To realize the power of the dream.
Disclaimer: I do not own Voltron, Sailor Moon, TLU, or Celine Dion's song, The Power of the Dream. However, I do own the Zodiac senshi and Destiny, etc. If you are confused about who belongs to me and who doesn't please e-mail me ask, just don't take it... Because if you do... Does this mean anything to you? *tosses Violet Diamond up and down and glares at anyone who has ideas about using her characters without permission*
Anyhoo... That's all for now. Stay tuned for the next episode of, In God's Hands.
Destiny shot up in bed. The gentle light of Sol hit her face.
*Today's the day,* she thought happily.
"Hi Des!"
She looked over to see her cousin Reenie, the four asteroid soldiers, and two others.
One was male. He had short, spiky black hair, and slightly slanted blue eyes. His eyes gave away the anxiety he was holding inside. His skin was very darkly tanned. He wore his formals. This was Prince Maximillian Brian Waters.
The other was female. She had long jade-green hair that reached below her knees. Her skin was a lot fairer then her brother's. She had gentle, doe-brown eyes. She had on a full-skirted formal forest-green dress, with matching pumps, and silver heels. This was Princess Jennifer Cora Waters.
"Hiya!"
Reenie hugged Destiny. "You're fourteen today. And today you'll become a senshi leader, just like me."
Destiny got up. "Um... Maxie... Could you turn away a minute? I have to change."
"Okay..." Maxie turned his back to them all, muttering a few things.
"Oh never mind..." Destiny grabbed her clothes and ran into her bathroom. "I'll change in here," she said from behind the door.
Maxie tugged at the heavy sword at his side. "Why the fuck did Dad make me wear this thing anyway... It's annoying..."
"Oh, I dunno," said June. "I think it's kinda cool. It makes you look like those medieval princes..."
Maxie cut her off. "That's exactly what I don't want to look like! I wanna have formal attire that includes jeans, spikes, and all that stuff, just like Max has!"
"Well Max is kind of psycho... Why can't he be more like his sister?" asked Celia.
"Max just has... Problems... I mean, he actually enjoys being immortal!"
Destiny walked back out in her princess dress. (The one that was described in chapter one.) "Done."
"Is my lipstick smeared?" asked Vaesah.
"Of all people to worry about their make-up," muttered June.
"Hey, I want to look pretty... Can't us tomboys want to look pretty?" asked Vaesah with her hands on her hips.
"I personally don't care what I look like," replied June. "It's the inside that counts and..."
"Oh shut up!" shouted Vaesah. "I've heard that stupid speech enough in my life, I don't care to hear it again!"
June and Vaesah continued arguing.
"Um... Could you two take it outside?" asked Parah. "I don't like fighting..."
June and Vaesah shot angry glares at Parah.
"Um... Okay... Fight all you want," said Parah, backing away.
"Could we please try and get along!?" asked Reenie, annoyed. "This is a special day for Des, and I'd rather not have it ruined for her."
Vaesah looked down. "Sorry Des... But she never respects me, or my opinions!"
"Like you respect mine?!"
They began shouting at each other again.
Reenie sighed. "That's it..." She grabbed the two and pushed them out of the room, where they kept on fighting.
Destiny breathed a sigh of relief. "Those two are impossible... If one said the moon was made of cheese, the other would say it was made of broccoli..."
"Ew... Broccoli..." Reenie stuck a finger in her mouth, to show her dislike for the miniature trees.
"Oh, I don't know," said Jennifer. "Broccoli is very good for you, and when you put cheese on it..."
"Cheese over broccoli? That sounds even more disgusting!"
"Finally someone agrees with me!" said Maxie.
"I'm sorry Jen, but I'll have to go with these two," said Destiny. "I detest the stuff."
"That's a shame Destiny," said Jennifer. "It really does make a good snack.
"To her, dill pickles make a good snack too," whispered Maxie to Reenie and Destiny, snickering.
Reenie ran into the bathroom, holding her stomach, hoping she wouldn't throw up.
Jennifer crossed her arms and glared at Maxie. "Whatever is so funny?"
"Oh, I was just telling them how you like mu shu turkey wraps. Ya know... That turkey, dipped in plum sauce."
"Please Maxie, stop," pleaded Destiny. "You're making us sick."
"I like plums!" declared Parah.
Celia put an arm around Parah. "Parah... Plums, and plum sauce, are two very different things," she whispered.
"Oh..."
"What is with the sudden interest in my diet?!" asked Jennifer angrily.
"We're not interested!" said Reenie. "But he sure seems to be!" She pointed at Maxie.
Maxie laughed.
"If I weren't a royal princess, I'd punch you!" spat Jennifer.
Maxie kept laughing. "And I'm sure I'd be so very hurt..."
"Hmph! Do excuse me ladies, but I need a glass of water." Jennifer stomped off.
"You really should try and be a bit nicer to her Maxie."
"Hell no! After all the hell she put me through as a child? All the, Maximillian, eat your food this way, and Maximillian, wear this, not that... It was more then I could take!"
Vaesah and June sulked back in.
"Finished arguing yet?"
They both nodded.
"Good. Happy birthday Des." Reenie hugged Destiny.
Destiny returned the embrace. "Thank you."
"Happy birthday," said a deep voice. There stood the dark figure of Dallas in the doorway.
"Good morning Dallas. "
"Here," he said, handing her a box. "This is for you."
"Why... Thank you..."
"Open it, faerie."
She took the lid off of the box. "It's... The Violet Diamond!?"
"A sculpture. Just a sculpture. I used what sorcery I know to make diamond, and color it purple... Then cut it."
"You can't make diamond," said Maxie. "That's defying Einstein's law. E=MC2. Matter cannot be created or destroyed, it can be changed, or converted into heat or energy..."
"I know," Dallas interrupted. "Strong sorcerers can defy those laws, but I merely took an ordinary rock and changed it."
"It's pretty Dallas. Thank you." Destiny grinned.
"Of course princess. I thought you may want a little something like this. I myself consider diamonds, gold, and things like that worthless. But I know your kind value them and find them beautiful. So I give this to you."
Destiny nodded. "I thank you."
"You were kind of supposed to save that for later Dallas."
"I wanted to give it to her now. Is that a problem?"
"I guess not..."
Dallas nodded. "I didn't think so. Now I'm supposed to go help them decorate Destiny. I'll see you later." He disappeared.
"I think he's kind of a cutie," said June.
"Then why don't you go out with him?" asked Celia teasingly.
June glared at Celia.
"When is your induction?" asked Maxie.
"In the middle of Sol... The rejoicing begins at the rising of Kokuki."
"My induction began at the rise of Selene," said Reenie.
"I know... But Sol is a star... And I am supposed to be inducted under the light of a star. Then the feasting and merry-making comes when a moon rises."
"Your... Your soldiers Des. Have you thought about them?"
Destiny's eyes slightly widened. "Oh... I nearly forgot."
"You've never seen them before!?"
"Nope... Never."
"I wonder... What they'll be like..."
"Oh Des you ninny! You know very well what they'll be like... Mary, and the princesses of Trinisiah and Blaire!"
"Reenie... Trinisiah and Blaire have no princesses."
"Oh..."
"Hi!" came a high-pitched voice from behind the door.
There stood a tall stately figure, with long, curly red hair. Her skin was lightly tanned, and she wore a full red dress covered with the most elaborate of jewels and embroidery. She wore a red ruby around her neck and a jeweled barrette in her hair. She had finely arched eyebrows and hazel eyes, thickly lashed. Her lips were thin, painted red. This was Princess Marlena Lee of Glossiah.
:) "By the way... It's pronounced Mar-lay-na. Not Marleena. Mar-lay-na as in Marlena off of Days of Our Lives,
Destiny, recognizing the voice, muttered something and turned around. "What the hell are you doing here Mary?"
"I just wanted to come and wish you a happy birthday..."
"Well that's nice and all, but what did you really come here for?"
Marlena frowned. "We both know I am going to be one of the unknown soldiers. So I just wanted to lay down some rules..."
"Excuse me," interrupted Vaesah, "but I do believe she is the leader. She makes the rules, not you."
"But I am definitely the most mature," said Marlena, twirling a strand of red hair around her finger. "And I think I should have a say too."
"Well you don't," said June with a smirk. "So fuck off, friend."
Marlena glared at June. "I believe I rank higher then you little girl, so I would watch your words."
Destiny stood up straight. "They're right Mary. I do make the rules. I am leader... And if you don't straighten up your act, you'll find yourself ranking last out of the others."
Marlena sniffed. "You're so stuck up Destiny. Why can't you be a lady, like your mother, instead of a prude little brat who looks down on everyone who ranks below her... Quite sad..."
A vein popped out of Destiny's head.
"And the way you Harmonians keep your skin so pale makes you look so horrid... And how you were born with such strange eyes, I'll never know... That goes for Reenie also..."
That drove Reenie over the edge. "You, get out, now!" Reenie literally picked Marlena up and threw her out of the room, right into a passing servant, who was pushing a cart of dirty laundry.
Marlena fell into the cart.
"You horrible, horrible woman!" she screeched at Reenie. "My mother will hear of this!"
"And what will your mother do?" asked Reenie with a smirk. "Declare war? If that is to be her course of action, then she will be horribly outnumbered and easily defeated."
Marlena jumped out of the cart and tried to run back into the room and lunge at Reenie, but Maxie slammed the door in her face.
Marlena slammed her forehead on the door and fell back, in tears.
"What the hell is going on!?"
There stood Lance and Jay.
Lance was trying to keep from laughing.
Jay was giggling into his sleeve.
"That horrible rabbit threw me in that!" Marlena thrust a finger in the direction of the cart.
"Well... Um..." Lance helped Marlena up. "Perhaps we should send you home."
"But I'm going to be one of the unknown soldiers! I have to be here!"
Lance crossed his arms. "You don't know that."
"But I do! There's got to be a soldier for every planet!"
Jay chuckled. "How do you know you're the one?"
"I'm the princess, and heir to Glossiah's throne! No other could possibly be a Sailor Glossiah!"
"We will find out today," said Lance. "Come on now... Let's get you cleaned up."
Marlena followed Lance away from them.
"That was sweet!" yelped Jay in glee. "What happened!?"
"Let's just say Marlena crossed the line."
"Well anyway... What do you think your soldiers will be like?"
"I don't care what they're like. I just hope they like me."
"You're a loveable one Des. How could they not like you?"
"We're here!" called out four voices in unison.
There stood Danielle, Willow, Jasmine, and Deimos.
"Hi guys!" exclaimed Destiny with glee.
"Hiya Des. Happy birthday." Jasmine grinned.
"Thanks."
"How do you like my dress guys?" Danielle twirled around. "Isn't it pretty? Setsuna made it just for me!"
"Setsuna made your dress!?" Jennifer's eyes flashed with a glint of jealousy.
"Yep! Michiru is real close to Setsuna and was able to convince Setsuna to let Max watch the gates long enough to make a dress for me!"
Danielle was decked out in a long silky dress of aqua. It fell to her ankles, leaving a train behind her. It was held up by tiny seed pearl straps. She had golden arm clasps around both her upper arms. She had a band of dark blue sapphires around her waist. She wore a headdress, which was a band of gold around her head, topped with transparent aqua and dark blue material, set with a few sapphires. She wore Cinderella slippers on her feet.
"She made that whole outfit for you!?" Reenie gasped. "Did you have to pay for it!? Uranus's budget has been a bit limited since Haruka-chan won't stop spending money on battle ships and things like that... Stuff she can drive. How did you ever get the money..."
Danielle glared a bit at Reenie. "For one, if we had had to pay for it, my mother would have, not Michiru. And for two, Uranus is having no financial problems whatsoever. We did not have to pay for it... Setsuna made it out of friendship for me."
"It's really pretty," Jennifer said in awe.
"Thank you." Danielle bowed.
"Why didn't you two get dresses from Setsuna?" asked Reenie to the twins. "Those don't look like her type of design."
They shrugged.
"She didn't have time to make all of us one." Willow grinned. "So our tailor made ours. She's really quite good... But she had to make clothes already designed."
"I see."
"What's up my homie g's!?" There stood Max, all dressed up in his "formals", grinning cheesily at Destiny. "Hiya tootsie roll."
Destiny threw a shoe at Max. "What are you doing?"
"Jeez... Just came down to see all my thugs. See, you're my bitch, she's my bitch, she's my bitch, she's my bitch, she's my bitch, and she's my bitch." He said that pointing a finger at Destiny, Reenie, Jennifer, Danielle, Willow, and Jasmine.
"And you and you," he said, pointing at Jay and Maxie, "are my homie G thugs."
Jay laughed. "Well homie G thug, how about we take your other homie G thug, and your bitches, and go get some breakfast?"
"Breakfast... What's on the menu? Extra crispy Harmonian bacon?"
"If you wish." Jay grinned.
"Yes! Setsuna never cooks. Let alone, extra crispy bacon."
"Well Max, her being the guardian of time and all..."
Max waved a hand to silence Willow. "Come on my bitches and thugs, let's go get something to eat!"
They all paraded down to the kitchen, stomachs churning with hunger.
"Hi kids!" said a plump, jolly looking woman, with rosy red cheeks and straight platinum blonde hair. This was Florence, the head cook in the Harmonian kitchens. "Hungry this morning?"
"You bet!" they exclaimed in a chorus.
"How about eating in the dining room today? It's a big day for our princess." She smiled at Destiny.
"Well..." Destiny grinned brightly, loving to eat in the dining room. "Okay!"
Just for the fun of it, they all tried to walk like ladies and gentlemen, shoulders straight, chest out, noses up.
At least that was Max's "gentleman" pose.
Florence laughed loudly, seeing how humorous they looked. "You kids want the whole menu?"
"Hell yeah!" yelled the three boys together.
Florence nodded and rushed out of the dining room.
Jay, Max, and Maxie let out whoops of happiness.
"How can you eat so much!?" asked Jasmine in shock.
"We're growing boys!" answered Max. "We need much more food then you girls do!"
"True," agreed Danielle.
"Hey, whatever happened to Jennifer?"
Maxie shrugged. "Her pride was hurt. I'll bet she left."
"No, I did not leave!" There stood Jennifer in the immense doorway, with her arms crossed.
"Well, well, well, welcome back 'sis." Maxie chuckled.
Jennifer took a deep breath and sat down beside Willow. "What are you guys doing?"
"Waiting for the whole menu."
"Excuse me?"
"After a little... Incident with Mary... We all came down here for breakfast. The fly boys over there ordered the whole menu."
Jennifer stared wide-eyed at the boys.
"What?" asked Jay, in response to being stared at.
Jennifer shook her head.
"Here you are children!" Florence beamed, as a lot of cooks and servants started setting platters down on the table.
"Mmmm! Devilled eggs!" Jennifer dug in.
"Yuck!" Reenie refused to look at the devilled eggs and helped herself to some fruit and scrambled eggs instead. She spread some freshly made butter on some toast.
"Hey Reenie, do you have the raspberry preserves over there?" asked Jasmine.
Jay grinned and held them up as he piled his plate with as much food as he could. "Looking for these?"
"Gimme!" shouted Jasmine.
Willow held her back from making a lunge at Jay.
"Excuse me!" said the same high-pitched voice they heard that morning.
To their disappointment stood Marlena again, all cleaned up from the previous onslaught from Reenie.
Danielle groaned.
"Who invited you?" asked Reenie with a sneer.
"Well, after almost ruining my dress, the least you could do is treat me to that lovely breakfast you have there."
"And if we refuse?" asked Willow.
"What are you gonna do? Call your priss of a mother?"
"Come on Destiny, it's your castle, tell her to go away!"
Destiny was getting a little panicky. Never in her life had she been asked to turn someone out, let alone actually do it.
"I am a guest here in this palace," shot back Marlena. "It would be quite un-regal for her to refuse."
"Guest?" asked Jay. "Um... No one invited you to come here. So you can't really be considered a guest."
That one hurt Marlena, as it was quite a known fact she had feelings for Jay.
"So, unless Destiny says you can stay, I'm afraid you'll have to leave," added Maxie coolly.
Little beads of sweat trickled down Jennifer's forehead, hoping Destiny wouldn't be so cruel as to refuse Marlena's presence.
Destiny closed her eyes. "As we are all quite sure that Marlena will be a soldier under my command by the end of today... It would be quite rude of me to tell her to leave." She sighed. "Mary, you are welcome to join us for breakfast if you so desire."
Reenie elbowed Destiny in the stomach. "What the hell is wrong with you?" she hissed. "You can't just give into her!"
Destiny shook her head. "It isn't in me... To feel hate..."
Reenie sighed and forked some honeydew melon into her mouth.
Marlena scooped some yogurt onto her plate. "Now Destiny, we should begin to discuss business."
"Business?" asked Max, sounding appalled. "For Kami's sake Mary, she hasn't even been inducted yet! Let her enjoy her last day as a normal princess before she has to have 'warrior' added to her title."
Marlena laughed and looked at Max. "Destiny has never been a normal princess, nor will she be a normal queen. She will rule Crystillia, and that is no normal job. Now, as I was saying. I believe that all soldiers should have an equal say in what goes on..."
"Duh Mary," said Reenie. "But the leader, in cases where an unanimous decision cannot be reached, must decide."
"In cases like that, I believe a vote should be taken."
"That wouldn't work!"
"How do you know!?"
"I've been a senshi leader since June thirtieth."
"You've only been in battle once!"
Reenie growled. "That's not true. Both me and Dessy have been in battle many times, as chibi senshi!"
"That doesn't really count." Marlena frowned.
Reenie shook her head. "Hopeless," she muttered to herself.
Breakfast was finished in silence, save for Marlena's constant chatter.
"Kids?" A lady peeked in. "You guys dressed?"
This woman looked much like Allura, except her cheeks were a bit fuller. She had straight honey-blonde hair and misty blue eyes. She wore a periwinkle dress with silver trim. Her skin was tanned slightly. This was Queen Romelle Orla (what the hell was Sven's last name?).
Destiny, nor any of the others, had ever seen this woman in their lives.
"Who are you?" asked Destiny, looking a bit confused.
Romelle also looked confused. "Don't you know me?"
Destiny shook her head. "You resemble my Aunt Ally some. But I'm afraid I don't know you. What about you guys?"
They all shook their heads.
Romelle seemed a bit hurt. "Why... I'm your cousin. I'm first cousin to Allura... I rule the planet Pollux, with my husband... Sven. Don't you know?"
"Wait," said Jay. "I remember a Sven being mentioned once. Was he... The original pilot of the Blue Lion?"
Romelle nodded. "Yes, he was."
Jay shrugged. "I only know his name. Nothing else."
Romelle sighed. "Well, I'm afraid this is the first time I've seen any of you in years. I guess I shouldn't be surprised none of you know me. But I don't know you two." She pointed to Maxie and Jennifer.
"I am Prince Maximillian, of the planet Necon." Maxie bowed his head. "This is my sister, Jennifer."
"Pleased to meet you." Romelle smiled. "I myself have someone I especially want Destiny and Jay to meet."
"Hmm?"
The two siblings looked intently at the woman.
"Come on Katherine. Come out here and meet your cousins."
There was a pause for a minute.
Then suddenly, from the doorway stepped a tall girl. Long white hair tumbled down her back. She had sparkling green eyes. Her skin was tanned, and it was clear she wasn't any weakling. She wore a simple green dress that reached her ankles. Two slender gold bands came around from her back and were joined in the middle by a red jewel of some sort. She had a valiant look about her.
"This is my daughter Destiny. Her name is Katherine."
"Do we call her Katherine?" asked Jay. "Or Kathy?"
"Don't ask my mother what you should be asking me," the girl said in a fearless voice. "Call me Kathy and I'll kill you. If you call me anything besides Katherine, you will call me Kat."
"Kat?"
"Yes. Kat. Either Katherine, or Kat. I have no wish to be called after that old age television host."
They had no idea what she was talking about.
Katherine rolled her eyes.
"Well... I'll let you kids be to get acquainted."
Katherine muttered something.
Romelle left in a worriedly manner.
"Well then... I obviously know who you two are." She pointed at Destiny and Jay. "And I know who you are." She then pointed at Reenie. "But I have no idea who you, you, and you are. Or you, you, and you."
"I told you," said Maxie, getting a bit annoyed by this girl. "My name is Maximillian. And her name is Jennifer," he said, jerking his chin in his sister's direction.
"Don't you have a nick name? You don't look like someone who should be called Maximillian. If you are, I pity you."
Maxie growled. "They call me Maxie."
"Maxine?"
"Maxie!" he roared.
"Close enough. And you? Are you called Jenny? Jen?"
"Jennifer, thank you."
"Well you don't have to get snotty about it!" She then turned her head toward Max. "And you?"
"I am Maxorion Meiou, master of all time!" exclaimed Max, claiming his sister's title for his own, hoping to impress the pretty damsel.
"Whatever." She shrugged off his words. "And what about you three?"
"I am Princess Danielle, and these are my sisters, Jasmine and Willow."
"Of where?"
"Neptune..."
"Neptune... Been there before, long time ago... Never did like it much."
A vein popped out of Danielle's head.
She looked to Destiny. "So... You're gonna be the leader of sailor soldiers eh? I hope I'm not one of them! For one, I'd despise being led into battle by a girl who looks like she's never fought before in her life! And I couldn't stand running around in those stupid little short skirts."
"They're made to look like sailor suits," Destiny replied, trying to keep calm.
"If I do remember correctly, sailor suits are often composed of long pants and some kind of shirt. Never once in my life did I ever see a sailor wearing sleeveless leotards, short skirts that practically climb up your ass, pumps, and any type of shoe they please."
"Hello girls, sorry I wasn't here earlier." Standing before them was a beautiful woman, with plump heart-shaped odangoes and glorious long black hair that fell a little below her knees. She had big yellow eyes and wore a short dress of yellow, with transparent black material that fell below it, down to her ankles. It was held up by thin yellow straps, connected to the dress by two black roses. A yellow ribbon was around her neck and the crystal moon shone on her forehead. This was Luna, known ruler of Mau, and long-time advisor to Queen Serenity. She, like Amalthea, could change from human to animal at will.
"Luna!" Reenie ran and hugged her tightly.
Katherine just stared.
Luna looked at her, and smiled. "White hair... Just like my Artemis."
"Artemis? You're married to a girl?"
They all silently thanked God that Artemis was not there to hear that, for Artemis was always sensitive to the fact that he was named after a female goddess.
Luna laughed and shook her head. "Not at all. Artemis is male, I assure you."
"But... In Greek mythology, Artemis was female. She was the goddess of hunt and chase, and of the moon. The goddess of the moon has many different names, those being Luna, Artemis, Diana, and Selene. I am sure there are others. And the name Luna belongs to you, I presume?"
Luna nodded.
"Well you look like a Luna. The moon mark and everything. Can't say the same for pinky right here," she whispered, pointing to Reenie.
"Who is this, ladies and gents?"
"Her name is Katherine," they all replied. "She's princess of Pollux."
"Ah, Sven and Romelle's girl I presume?"
Katherine nodded. "I received many of my mother and father's genes. Sit down all of you... I'll tell you more about myself. Forgive me for being so rude earlier, I tend to get nervous when I'm around strangers, and get mean... Like my father."
They all did as commanded.
"Well, my mother went through many hardships as a teenager... Her cousin of course, was Allura, but Arus and Pollux weren't exactly buddies. My grandfather's name was Cova, but I can tell you, I'm not proud to have him as an ancestor. His story... See, he wanted to marry Aunt Victoria... Well, she's my great aunt... But anyway, he made a plan to kidnap her, but see, that didn't work out the way he planned... Aunt Orla, Victoria's sister, bore a great resemblance to the almighty queen of Arus. He accidentally kidnapped Orla... And by her, Romelle was born. My Uncle Bandor was also mothered by my Grandmother Orla. Cova then had three children. My deceased Uncle Avoc, Romelle, and Bandor. They say he actually grew to love her... And no longer had a will to live, when she was rescued by my great Uncle Alfor and returned to Arus. He faked loyalty to Zarkon and the Drule Empire... And meanwhile... A secret romance formed between Romelle and her half brother Avoc... Avoc and his followers planned to overthrow Zarkon and Cova after Pollux had taken over Arus... And won the war. To do this he let the old witch Hagar talk him into becoming a Ro-beast... That was his ending. Pollux lost the war, and my mother lost the man she loved. But... Luckily, she found her true soul mate... Sven, the original pilot of Blue Lion."
"That is not all," said Luna. "You forgot something, unless you would rather not discuss it."
"Please do!" cried Destiny, growing more excited with each word of Katherine's family history.
Katherine smirked. "Very well. During Pollux's very temporary alliance with the Drule Empire, Syncline fell for Romelle, as he saw that Romelle was clearly almost Allura's twin. Cova came very close to forcing the two into marriage. But Pollux fell before he could make it happen. Lotor kept Romelle as his captive, and Bandor was named king of Pollux at the age of nine, to rule in his sister's absence. Romelle refused him time and time again, until Lotor finally got tired of her, and threw her into his dreaded pit of skulls. That is where my father found her, and saved her life. Though a part of her heart will always be with Avoc, she loved my father greatly. I was born shortly after they were married. And I was trained in the ways of a warrior."
"Wow..." Destiny looked quite pleased with the girl's tale of her family's past.
Luna nodded. "Destiny seems to have liked your story."
"Momma?" asked a small voice.
There in the doorway stood a little girl, with short lavender hair, done up in heart odangoes like her mother's, with a little pipe curl hanging down from each. She had light purple eyes, and was almost white. She wore black tights, and a short purple dress, complete with little glossy black shoes. This was Diana, only child of Luna and Artemis, and someday to become Reenie's advisor when she became queen. She too bore the crystal moon on her forehead.
"Hi Momma!" yelped the small one.
Diana was a frail girl, although she was barely younger then Reenie herself.
"Tiny little thing, isn't she?" asked Katherine to Destiny.
"Oh, she just needs to have a growth spurts or something. She'll be a very pretty girl someday, rest assured."
Diana looked at Destiny. "It's almost time Des! You gotta transform now. Trinity and Lance are waiting for you in the marble hall.
Destiny nodded and looked to the others. "Wish me luck guys."
"I'll be joining you, so don't worry!" Marlena grinned.
Max muttered something about why he had ever allowed that girl to be born.
"Transform for us," requested Danielle. "So we can see you as a chibi one last time."
Destiny nodded and held up her brooch. "Star Pearl Power, Make-Up!"
There stood Chibi Star, looking a bit solemn.
"Oh Des... Smile! Trust me, being a grown soldier isn't bad!" said Willow.
"You won't miss your chibi form at all!" said Reenie with a grin.
*Don't they understand?* asked Destiny to herself. *This was the form where everything happened... Everything. I've grown with this form... Who cares how much power I'll have when I'm a senshi? I'll miss being a chibi... The little one.* Without a word, she walked from the dining room, and strolled through the palace, heading to the pillared hall.
*I made all my friends, and got to know myself. I've helped to save the universe numerous times in this form.*
People she passed smiled at her and whispered words of encouragement, but she took no notice of them.
*I don't even want to use the Violet Diamond... A long time ago, I wanted it, but now I realize how precious it was to just imagine having it. It seems so not special now that I'm actually going to have it. I'm going to be a freaking warrior... I may die out there! What was I thinking in actually wanting this to happen!?*
"Ah, Dessy."
She heard her mother's voice.
"It's time, hon."
Her father.
"What's the matter sweetie? You look sick."
She felt herself wavering back and forth. What was that? Arms around her waist?
Then all went black.
***
"What?!" yelped Reenie. "Destiny fainted!?"
Willow fell over.
"I don't believe it," muttered Maxie. "The whole world and more waiting for her, and she passes out. Idiot."
"Well... She wasn't acting quite normal when she left the room," said Jasmine. "Perhaps she's sick."
"Who cares if she sick!" yelled Maxie. "She's got a job to do and sick or not, she's got to do it!"
"Maxie!" gasped Jennifer. "That's an awful thing to say!"
"Awful it may be," said Marlena. "But he's right."
"Who is with Destiny right now?" asked Katherine.
"Lance is," answered Trinity. "I should probably go join him soon."
"No," said Max. "Let them be."
Trinity looked at Max and frowned, but nodded, knowing there was a reason for his command.
"Well, are we going to have the induction today?" asked Katherine.
"We have to," said Trinity. "We just have to."
***
"Hon?"
Destiny's eyes fluttered open. "Daddy?"
"I'm right here baby." Lance dabbed at his daughter's forehead with a wet cloth, wiping off the perspiration.
"Daddy, what happened?"
"You passed out."
"Oh..." She rubbed her forehead, trying to ease the pain.
"Do you feel sick?" he asked her.
"Kind of..." She closed her eyes. "Dad, who was Sven?"
Lance looked down. "An old friend."
"Did you know he has a daughter?"
"Yes... You met her?"
"I did."
"She has... A very interesting life story."
"Whatever," he sighed. "Now why did you pass out?"
"I can't do this."
"It's your fate. You have to."
"I don't wanna leave my chibi form behind... No one understands!"
"Reenie would understand. Why don't you talk to her?"
"She is always wanting to grow up! She'd of course just tell me to go ahead with it! And there's no one else who would understand."
"Des, listen..."
"Why should I!?" Destiny was gradually losing her temper. She was slowly regaining a memory, a memory that she had banished from her mind long ago.
Lance could see the anger in her eyes. "Des, what's wrong?"
She jumped out of bed. "You never wanted me!" she screamed at him. "I remember! When I went back in the past... You hated me! You hated me and Chi Chi! You never wanted children at all!"
Lance was startled. "Dessy..."
"You had a huge fight with mom about us, and she ran away, and got captured! Remember!? I tried to warn you that she was in danger! But you told me to go away! You called me a little brat for no reason!"
"You don't understand!" he shouted back at her. "I wasn't even an adult yet Destiny! I was still a carefree kid, living on the edge, hanging around on the streets a lot, going out every night... The thought of getting married and having children, and being tied down didn't appeal to me at the time! I cherished my childhood Des, just like are right now! Yeah, maybe I was being a bit immature, maybe I shouldn't have shot off at you and your mother, but then that makes you no better then me! Because look at you, you have one of the biggest responsibilities in the whole damn galaxy to accept today, and you're laying here in bed, complaining about how you don't want to leave your childhood behind! Well guess what Des!? The damn induction isn't gonna make you grow up! Any decent person never grows up! It just makes you wiser, and more responsible!" He hugged her as tightly as he could. "You're my fucking daughter Des... I love you. I was only a child when I said I never wanted children... I have them now, and I wouldn't trade them for anything in the damn universe. Now be the brave girl I know you are, and go out there, and become Sailor Star. You can do it Des, I know you can."
"Plus the fact," said Max, walking in, "that if you don't, you're holding your soldiers back from becoming senshi. They'll never know who they really are."
"Hello Max."
"Sup Lance, how's life?"
Lance shrugged. "This surely hasn't been one of my better times of the day."
"Understood," said Max. "Des, it's time. You are fourteen today."
"I hate being fourteen." Destiny put her head in her hands.
Max looked to the door. "Trinity, you can come in now."
Trinity entered, holding her hands down in front of her. She had tanned features, and blue-green eyes. She wore Harmonia's crown on her head and bore the mark on her forehead. Her hair was the color of golden-rod on a sunny day. On her head were two pear-shaped odangoes. From each of these odangoes hung down two long strips of hair, each half as long as one of Usagi's. The dress she wore looked much like Kakyuu's, save the little balloon thing at the base of the torso. In place of that was something that resembled a pixie's dress, with the long, sheer skirt hanging down from it. This, without a doubt, was Queen Trinity Cleryse Kurogane.
"Destiny, your fourteenth birthday is nowhere near as bad as mine was."
"Why... What happened on your fourteenth birthday?"
"I'm sure you know that I was raised as a child on Calidyan by Zarkon."
"Yes... I do."
"On my fourteenth birthday was the day he told me I was not a Calidyan princess, but the duchess of Arus that had been presumed dead years ago. I was to marry Syncline and really become a Calidyan princess, someday to be its queen. My fourteenth birthday involved being locked up, a prisoner, in my room, and planning a grand escape, so I could return home. It also involved actually escaping, and then crash-landing into Maxie's planet."
Maxie ran in. "Yeah! My dad told me about the day you came into his palace and woke the Neconian spirits! He said him and Tyran almost had you executed!"
Destiny looked horrified.
"Now, compared to that, does your fourteenth birthday seem so bad?"
"But... You got to go home. You escaped from your prison. Didn't that make things okay?"
Trinity smiled. "That it did. Now think of the good points, out of your bad birthday."
Destiny shrugged. "There are lots of them, I guess."
"Name them to me."
"I'll finally gain the right to fight on my own... And I'll have the Violet Diamond, like I've always wanted. And then I'll have my own group to command, and..."
"You won't have to wear the go-go boots anymore."
"Yeah, and then there'll be a big party afterwards."
"Now what are the bad points?"
"I'll lose my chibi form forever."
"And you'll lose the boots you hate so much."
"And the little annoying pink bows in my hair."
"That's right. And you'll even have new power."
"But no Star Pearl."
"But the Star Pearl will return when you have your own little daughter."
Destiny slightly smiled at the thought.
"Are you ready, Destiny?"
She nodded.
"Then come."
Lance got up and straightened out his cape. "Where's Setsuna Max?"
"Right here." Max opened the portal to Pluto, and out of it stepped the emerald-haired princess.
"We must do it now, Trinity," said Setsuna. "We have to make it before Sol sets."
Destiny rose and smoothed out her skirt. "I'm ready."
Lance and Trinity walked behind her, as Destiny made her way out the door.
The others had formed a procession tunnel, and had their heads bowed.
Destiny walked down the tunnel, head held high, a spark of sorrow in her eyes.
Deep within each heart,
There lies a magic spark,
That lights the fire of our imagination.
And since the dawn of man,
Just the strength of "I can,"
Has brought together people of all nations.
Destiny emerged into the light of the outside, boots clicking against the silken red carpet.
The millions gathered erupted into cheers and applause, seeing their princess about to become their savior.
Destiny held the Star Pearl between her hands, the magic sphere floating, giving off its own magic light.
She looked up, and saw that somehow, her parents had reached the finish line before her. But it wasn't their finish.
It was hers.
Was this really going to be worth it?
There's nothing ordinary,
In the living of each day.
There's a special part,
Every one of us will play.
She suddenly noticed that she was enveloped in sunbeam, as she proceeded down the aisle.
"Go Dessy!" she heard her friends scream.
She looked over and smiled at them, and they flashed her signs and yelled words of encouragement.
Destiny kept her fake smile on her face, but kept walking, slowly, trying to take her time, knowing that once she reached the end, her life would be changed forever.
Feel the flame forever burn,
Teaching lessons we must learn,
To bring us closer to the power of the dream.
As the world gives us its best,
To stand apart from all the rest,
It is the power of the dream that brings us here.
She felt her legs taking her up the steps. She was now at the end. She reached the final step, then stood in front of her parents. She bowed to them.
They bowed back to her, and then Trinity looked out to the crowd. "Ladies, and gentlemen, of Crystillia, and of all other foreigners who may have journeyed here from other galaxies!"
The crowd stopped their cheers, and grew quiet.
Trinity smiled. "Today is a special day, as we all know. I'm sure that many of you were at the induction of Princess Serenity, when she became Sailor Moon. This will be somewhat like that induction, yet it will be different. Serenity knew who her soldiers would be. She trained with them and has known them since she was a small child. For Destiny, it will be the opposite. No one, not even the soldiers themselves, know who Destiny's protectors will be. Soon enough, we will find out.
Destiny became Chibi Star when she was five years old. She has fought side by side with me, and the other soldiers, since even before the beginning of her life. That, I will not explain, but the point I am making is, I am convinced that today, on her fourteenth birthday, she is ready to become a true sailor soldier." She turned Destiny around to face the crowd. "This is your princess, now to become your heroine, someday to be your queen!"
The crowd broke into applause.
Trinity looked toward the sky and closed her eyes, and began to chant something in ancient Harmonian.
From the sky came four lights.
First, there was the white-gowned Bliss, then the lavender gowned Faith.
But there was also one that wore a lacy beige gown and had long dark brown hair. Her eyes were also brown, and she carried a green globe between her hands. Her lashes were long, with tiny pearls at the end of each of them. Her lips were the color of the crimson blood that flows inside of humans. This was the Peacekeeper, Charity.
The other wore a gold dress with unimaginably long sleeves, with the finest gold embroidery. A sheer white scarf came down from her bosom and up from her back, and held in place, a golden amulet. The scarf wrapped around at her thighs and settled on the floor. Her glossy brown hair hung to her feet in two braids held in place by two golden leaves. This was the Peacekeeper, Wisdom.
The four Peacekeepers smiled at Destiny as they descended down from the heavens, and then looked to each other. They stood in a circle, bowed their heads, and closed their eyes.
A beam of light struck out from each of them, coming together in the middle.
Trinity, Serenity, and Kakyuu, who was also present, bowed their heads as well.
Light came from the three queens also, and joined the growing orb of brightness in the middle of the Peacekeepers.
The bodies of the six women collapsed.
Everyone gasped, confused and shocked, at what they were seeing.
Even Destiny herself looked frightened.
Seiya, Yaten, and Taiki knelt by their beloved princess's side, holding her up, trying to revive her.
"That will not be necessary, guardians of Kinmoku," said a sweet, musical voice coming from the orb.
Suddenly, a shape formed in front of them all. It took on the shape of a human, yet it was glowing a brilliant light, hues of pinks, blues, and purples. A pair of beautiful, dark lashed, crystal eyes opened, and they saw lips form. It had beautiful silver hair that fell to its knees. It didn't seem to be wearing any clothes, but it didn't matter. There were no human details about it. The only human thing about it, was the shape of the body, and the fact that it had eyes, a mouth, and hair.
It was the most beautiful thing most had ever seen.
They waited for the light to vanish so they could see the true form of this creature.
It didn't take Destiny long to realize that this was indeed its real self.
"Whenever I walk among mortals," it began, "I often take the form of people, so I may fit in among my surroundings. But today, for the first time since the crowning of your queen, I come to you in my true form. I am Harmonia, the spirit of this planet."
The people did not know what to say. Never before had they seen a goddess.
"As you all know, I am sure, I am a demigoddess that works under Christ the Lord. I can only be, when the Peacekeepers have combined their power. Bliss, Faith, Charity, and Wisdom all gave me their energy. Then there were three others." She looked down at Trinity. "There was Queen Trinity, who stands for the Lord himself... She stands for divinity and holiness. Serenity, is love. And Kakyuu is stars and souls... Otherwise known as life. With these combined, I can be so I may be able to be visible to you all, without taking form of a mortal. I am here today, to give Destiny the power to become Sailor Star, and to also give power, to the other Crystillian soldiers, who will now be revealed."
Destiny grew tense.
"I first introduce to all of you, the soldier of the stars, Princess Destiny Katrina Kurogane. She is the Star Princess, and she will lead the soldiers of Crystillia into battle."
Your mind will take you far.
The rest is just pure heart.
You'll find your fate is all your creation.
Every boy and girl,
As they come into this world,
They bring the gift of hope and inspiration.
Harmonia stood up straight. "I will now reveal the Crystillian Soldiers." She raised a hand. "Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Aries!"
Out of the crowd walked a young girl. She had mid-back length brown hair with red highlights. She had red eyes, much like Reenie's and a very tan complexion. She wore a low-cut bright red dress, with a peek-a-boo neckline. She had a mark, un-planetary, glowing on her forehead. Her eyes appeared to be blank, as she walked forward.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Taurus!"
Down the aisle walked a frail looking girl, who wore a pale pink dress, and had mid-back length, thin, curly hair to match. Her whole face looked far away as she faced Harmonia. She too, bore some sort of mark on her forehead. Her skin was almost as white as sea foam, and all features about her were delicate and small.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Gemini!"
To the surprise of Reenie and the others, and especially to the shock of Sven and Romelle, Katherine stepped out of their protected bubble. Her plain green dress now seemed fit for any princess as she proceeded down the aisle. She walked as if she were already a hero, like the greatest warrior in the universe. Her eyes were not blank, like the others were. Her eyes were full of understanding, as if she had been expecting this.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Cancer!"
The girl who then walked out wore a silver dress and had a beautiful appearance about her. She had glossy black hair, and the dress itself had a Japanese look to it. It was clear she was of some sort of oriental ancestry. Her eyes were big, and clear as the sky. A pearl tiara glittered on her head. As did yet another mark.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Virgo!"
A girl in a dark maroon dress, that covered everything except her hands and face, and very aristocratic looking jewelry stepped away from the others. Her very dark brown hair was piled perfectly on top of her head and her lips were full and pouty. She took careful precaution with each step she took, and used some sort of staff to support herself. Her features were also very small and delicate. She had a very aristocratic air about her.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Libra!"
Everyone gasped.
From the crowd, stepped a very surprised looking young girl. She was a very delicate girl, with two long blonde braids. Her eyes were as blue as the bluest sea. She wore a light blue dress with a slit up the side, and matching heels. She proceeded up the aisle, looking very happy and proud.
Marlena growled. "I don't believe this..."
Up the aisle walked the sister of Marlena and Amber, Princess Jacqueline Florry Lee, of the planet Glossiah.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Scorpio!"
A girl with a short, black dress, and black heels stepped out. She wore dark cosmetics, and her eyes held an intense emotion in them. She walked down the aisle, looking back and forth at the people, a flame of pride sparking in her smile.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Sagittarius!"
A girl in an extremely dark purple and gold dress hurried down the aisle, looking as happy as can be. She almost tripped, but caught herself, looking over every once in awhile and grinning at any who was staring at her.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Capricorn!"
The ginger clad maiden slowly walked down the aisle, taking her time to smile weakly at all of the watching public. Her short-cut auburn hair blew steadily in the wind.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Aquarius!"
A girl clothed in a slinky turquoise dress and an amused smirk, strutted down the aisle. Her Michiru-colored hair fell in gentle waves over her shoulders as she haughtily waved at everyone, and skipped on.
"Come unto me, Crystillian soldier of Pisces!"
A small girl, no more then twelve years old, shyly stepped out of the crowd, looking worriedly back at her parents. Her long, gorgeous blue hair fell past her back, and her blue dress left a small train as she trudged to the end of the aisle.
Feel the flame forever burn,
Teaching lessons we must learn,
To bring us closer to the power of the dream.
The world unites in hope and peace.
We pray that it will always be.
It is the power of the dream that brings us here.
Destiny looked at all of her soldiers, as they stood on both sides of her.
*Who are these people?* she asked herself.
Harmonia looked out over her people. "I am sure a lot of you know these girls. And I'm sure you are wondering why it was chosen to give these girls the names of the Zodiac. As you know, Destiny will someday be queen of the stars, she represents them. It was only appropriate to give her soldiers names that also represent the stars. You may also note, there is no Sailor Leo. Leo is governed by the sun, which is a star. If Destiny could not be Sailor Star, she would most definitely be a Sailor Leo. That also is her zodiac sign. I will now introduce to all of you, the Zodiac soldiers." Harmonia opened her hand. "Come to me, sacred tear of mine!"
The Violet Diamond appeared, and settled in Harmonia's hand.
"I give you, Princess Ember Ohitsujino, Sailor Aires!" She aimed the Diamond's light at Ember, and she was in a sailor suit of red and silver. Her hair was in a long braid, tied with a red ribbon.
:) "The senshi's suits will not be thoroughly described just yet, as I have already made this story too long. " .
"I give to you, Princess Gabriella Oushino, Sailor Taurus!"
The light hit Gabriella, and she was then in a metallic pink and dark green senshi outfit. Her hair hung loose.
"I give to you Princess Katherine (WHAT THE HELL IS SVEN'S LAST NAME), Sailor Gemini!"
Katherine was then in a periwinkle blue and rich purple senshi outfit. Her hair was done up Princess Leia style (kind of... Ya know, bagel buns) and two long strips hung down from each of those that reached her thighs.
"I give to you, Princess Celina Kanino, Sailor Cancer!"
The oriental Celina was then in a black and silver senshi outfit. Part of her hair was piled on top of her head in a queen-like way and the rest hung down.
"I give to you, Princess Felicity Shojono, Sailor Virgo!"
Felicity wore a maroon and forest-green senshi uniform. Her hair hung loose, kept out of her face with a green bow atop her head.
"I give to you, Princess Jacqueline Urokono, Sailor Libra!"
Jacqueline now sported a very light blue and a darker blue senshi uniform. Her hair was in the two traditional blonde braids.
"I give to you, Princess Morganna Sasorino, Sailor Scorpio!"
The dark one was clad in a maroon and black senshi outfit. Her hair hung freely, in many layers, but was held out of her face with gold barrettes.
"I give to you, Princess Merrianne Ningenno, Sailor Sagittarius!"
Merrianne had an outfit of dark yellow and plum purple. Her hair hung in loose curls around her face.
"I give to you, Princess Julietta Yagino, Sailor Capricorn!"
Julietta's colors were ginger and sugar pink. Her short hair hung very straight, down to her chin.
"I give to you, Princess Callysta Umino, Sailor Aquarius!"
Callysta wore a turquoise and sea green uniform to compliment her hair of the some color. It was done Washu-style (the spiky thing).
"I give to you, Princess Penelope Uono, Sailor Pisces!"
The small girl wore a dark blue uniform with a bow of a slightly lighter blue. Her hair fell down her back, held back with a light blue bow.
Harmonia smiled and placed the Diamond into Destiny's hands. "I give to you, the leader of the Crystillian soldiers, Princess Destiny Kurogane, Sailor Star!"
There's so much strength in all of us,
Every woman, child, and man.
It's the moment that you think you can't,
When you discover that you can.
Destiny closed her eyes, and found herself inside the Diamond's light. She went from wearing her silken dress to a violet and silver senshi uniform. Instead of a bow in the back, were silver fairy wings. She held some sort of staff, which the Diamond set itself upon. She was now the heroine of Crystillia, its princess, and its soldier.
Feel the flame forever burn,
Teaching lessons we must learn,
To bring us closer to the power of the dream.
The world unites in hope and peace.
We pray that it will always be.
It is the power of the dream that brings us here.
"These," said Harmonia, "are the soldiers of Crystillia, the senshi of the Stars!"
All of the senshi, except Destiny, dropped to their knees, holding their hands in a sort of prayer pose.
In unison, they said:
"We pledge our allegiance to the Harmonian royal family, and swear to protect the Crystillian Empire, and Princess Destiny with the very blood of our hearts and light of our souls!"
Feel the flame forever burn,
Teaching lessons we must learn,
To bring us closer to the power of the dream.
The world unites in hope and peace.
We pray that it will always be.
It is the power of the dream that brings us here.
There in the moonlight that night stood twelve soldiers, all very different in character, but yet bonded to one another somehow, by fate of the heavens.
Kokuki rose behind them, illuminating them in moonlight. This was a day to be remembered, for that was the day that senshi power had finally dawned on Crystillia.
Among the collapsed bodies of the four Peacekeepers and her mother, shoulder held by her father's strong hand, stood a young girl who's face was no longer full of fear and worry, but full of courage, and love for all who looked upon her. A new fire burned in her eyes.
Kokuki also glowed a new and brighter light now. For there before it, beautiful and true, stood a Princess and her Knights.
The power of the dream.
The faith in things unseen.
The courage to embrace your fear.
No matter where you are.
To reach for your own star.
To realize the power of the dream.
Disclaimer: I do not own Voltron, Sailor Moon, TLU, or Celine Dion's song, The Power of the Dream. However, I do own the Zodiac senshi and Destiny, etc. If you are confused about who belongs to me and who doesn't please e-mail me ask, just don't take it... Because if you do... Does this mean anything to you? *tosses Violet Diamond up and down and glares at anyone who has ideas about using her characters without permission*
Anyhoo... That's all for now. Stay tuned for the next episode of, In God's Hands.