Author's Notes - I sorry I haven't written lately. There is this thing called writer's block and I seem to have a very bad case of it. I would like to thank everyone for their support of this story, especially those who told me VERY nicely what was wrong with my story. Anyway keep up with your comments and suggestions they help me a lot.-_-; Now here's chapter three!
Meghanscuderi@hotmail.com
Disclaimer - Obviously I do not own Sailor Moon but this story and its original characters ARE mine so please don't take them.
Rating - PG13 for curse words.
"We write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospection."
- Anais Nin
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I Shall not Perish
Chapter Three
By: Messy Meg
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The halls of the palace are a definite change from what I'm used to. They're cramped and dark despite the bright lighting from the ceilings above. Plunarians have absolutely no regard for those with claustrophobia! I am sure I would be highly uncomfortable if not for the millions of beautiful paintings that tell our Galaxy's history used for relief on the drab walls. They amaze me. Their colors and emotions are fascinating. We have been walking to my room for a little over ten minutes. I'm so hungry. General Karal says we are almost there. I can't wait to eat! I'm sure that he hears my stomach. It's sooo embarrassing but who could blame me? It's not like I only have to eat once a week like the Mercurians.
General Karal really puts me on edge. He seems impatient one minute, but then, it's like he suddenly remembers exactly who he's with and is totally serious and courteous. As for my behavior towards him, well let's just say I'm the perfect queen.
"Your Highness, we're here." General Karal informed me.
" Thank you General, but please just call me Serenity seeing as we will be together for quite awhile. Also, I wish to thank you for escorting me to my room. I am truly grateful for all you have done for me."
I said to him as any good queen would. It was also a clear dismissal but he stayed where he was and nodded in agreement with me.
I stared at him obviously waiting for a response and a good night.
" Yes well, you can be assured it was no trouble on my part. Of course we will be able to talk about this once we are seated for dinner."
I hope I don't look as shocked as I feel. He just invited himself to take part in MY dinner, when I had clearly stated that I did not want him there. I am the Queen of the Silver Millennium! No one ever invites themselves to dine with the Queen! Not even the highest-ranking general on Pluto!
Okay, so I am a *little conceited* I admit that, but let's be fair and agree that the cause of this trait was from my upbringing. Anyway back to the problem, what exactly can I do? Slam the door in his face? I guess I could but then again, what would that accomplish? Humm…. well he would be out of my room. That's a plus. That would also mean I can finally have some time to myself. I could eat, take a bath, and rest all I want. Four extra points there..... On the other hand he would think me extremely childish, and that is not exactly the image I want to present. Okay that would deduct just about all those points so I should just decide what I want. Do I want him to see me as a child or as the Queen that I am....hmm what to do, what to do....like there was really any other choice, the child in me won by a landslide.
" Yes of course once we are seated…." I started as I opened the door and walked in smiling sweetly, " for dinner tomorrow night." I continued as I slammed the door in his surprised face.
" Thanks for escorting me General Karal." I yelled through the door grinning ridiculously.
Hopefully I won't see him tomorrow. He's already starting to annoy me, and I have to spend the rest of my life with him! What did I get myself into!!? Sighing, I took a glance around as I leaned heavily against the door. I seem to be in the common room. It fortunately is completely unlike the halls behind me, even though those paintings were beautiful. The rooms seem to be designed specifically for Lunarian tastes, bright and airy. But that is not really important because there sitting on a table is, miracle of miracles a HUMONGUS tray of food! I'll look around later....
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Michiru and Haruka found me a couple of hours later having a meaningful conversation with the toilet.
" 'Rena you idiot, didn't anyone ever tell you you're not 'supposed to gorge yourself after starving for two days?"
Haruka always did have a way of making you feel better.
" Thanks for the support, Runka, you're always there when I need you." I grumbled raising my head slightly from the toilet so that I could see them. She grinned happily at me.
" Any time."
"Oh Rena..... you poor thing. Here let me pull back your hair." Miri said as I emptied my stomach yet again.
Her hands felt cool on my neck just like Mother's did that day when dad died. It's funny, that's the only time I can remember her comforting me. I was four... no five when Daddy died in that raid on Jupiter. I remember Mother with me in my room when I found out. We sat on my bed and I cried myself to sleep in her arms...while she rubbed my head until her hands finally fell to rest on my neck. I think she loved me that day, just for being myself. I wasn't her strange fanciful failure, but was instead her grief stricken daughter. I had to give mother that, she was considerate to me that day. We had both lost the one person we loved most. Daddy was a connection between us that was shattered and we both felt the pain of not having him anymore. After his death Mother drifted farther away from me. I guess it was because I acted so much like him she couldn't stand it.
" 'Rena" Haruka said shaking the memory from my mind. " Why is there a man standing outside your door?"
" He's still here? Why is he still here? I sent him away hours ago! I can't believe he would have the nerve to stay there all this time!!"
I was practically screaming when I finally registered the killing look on my cousin's face and Miri's worried glance.
" Oh no Runka, no it's not like that, it's not anything like that. He's not some weirdo who's following me looking for a date. The King assigned him to my permanent guard. He's General Karal, supposedly the highest-ranking General on all of Pluto. He's harmless." I gasped out calming myself down as well as Haruka.
They glanced at each other but I could not catch on to what they were thinking. Haruka looked away from Michiru and switched her direct gaze to me.
" And General Karal agreed to this?" She barked startling me. I lowered my head back to the toilet bowl.
" Ye- yes why? I was planning on asking Miri to search him with her mirror as soon-" Michiru interrupted me.
" Rena did you agree to him coming into your service?"
" Yes. What? What did you want me to do, refuse him? He was a "gift" from the king." I snapped becoming annoyed. What did I do wrong? Miri lowered her voice.
" We need to go practice."
"In the middle of the night!!?" I protested.
Seemingly oblivious to my shock, Haruka agreed with her " Your right, like always pet." she stated lovingly and then barked at me, " 'Rena get sum suitable clothes on you can't practice 'n that." she said looking down at my frilly dress.
She reached for my arm but I snatched it away from her grasping hand. I raised my self from the toilet shaking slightly from exhaustion. Angry with them I stormed out of the room. "Make sure you bring that worthless crystal of yours too." Haruka growled behind me.
What did I do wrong? I can't believe the way they are acting towards me! Practice in the middle of the night when they know I'm not feeling well! And what the hell did Haruka mean "worthless" crystal? She knows that the Silver Imperial Crystal is the most powerful weapon in this galaxy! How dare she insult me! How could she say that? Hot tears sprung up, welling in my eyes. I WILL NOT CRY!
I struggled into some men's slacks and forced a black sweater over my head. I collapsed down on a nearby chair to put on my boots and just about lost it when Runka walked into my room. She immediately came to my side and hugged me leaving a sisterly kiss on my cheek. I was confused. One minute she was extremely mean and the next all loving. What the hell was she trying to pull?
" Ru-" She placed a hand on my lips, commanding silence with her eyes, as she shook her head indicating that I was not to speak. I may be mad at her, but even angry I still trust her with my life. I nodded indicating that I would follow any lead she started. She grinned at me and quickly laced up my boots for me. Then she yanked me to my feet and started towards the common room, I followed like a cowed dog.
Miri was waiting for us with a pack slung on her shoulder. She nodded curtly and then we headed for the door. Runka positioned herself behind me and Miri took the lead. Haruka smiled at me and pointed to her ear and then around the room indicating that the room was bugged. Realization choose to dawn on me finally, and I nodded that I understood. She grinned once more but I didn't respond, I had to throw up again. Miri issued a biting comment towards me for the benefit of the bug.
"Can't you do anything right? You obviously can't carry the pack, so stop trying too. Goddess I wish we could leave you."
I picked up the thread instantly.
" I'm sorry Michiru. I promise I'll try harder. I need you, if your not here with me then no one will listen to me. I'd lose the throne!! Please don't leave me!" My voice was high pitched and almost on the verge of sobs. I could see Haruka wince out of the corner of my eye. Ahh... how sweet revenge can be, at least I could get her back a little bit. A few real tears actually sprung up as my thoughts drifted to Mina. If I could, I would thank her for all those acting lessons she gave me.
" Just shut up and stop crying 'r else someone will think sumthing's wrong." Haruka growled while making stupid faces at me.
I started smiling and covered growing giggles with fake sobs. I composed myself, steadying my shaking limbs, as Miri opened the door. On the other side of the small hall stood the handsome General Karal, agitated and impersonal.
"My Highness," he breathed bowing low. "I thought I would not see you again tonight."
" General, please stand." He straightened, giving me one of his handsome smiles. " I also had not intended on seeing you again tonight, but the ladies Uranus and Neptune say that it is imperative that we practice tonight. Now if you will excuse us...." I said.
" Do you need an escort Highness? Pluto has many hidden dangers." He asked already walking towards us to join our small group.
" No, thank you General but I'm sure the Ladies will be sufficient guides as well as body guards." He opened his mouth to protest but I quickly cut him off.
" General, it's time you get some rest." I ordered. " I expect you to meet me tomorrow morning and I need you well rested and able to think or else you will be worthless to me. You can't do that if you join us on our night escapades. We unlike you General have no need to sleep as I'm sure you know." That was a total fib but no one actually knew what the Outer Soldiers and High Queen could really do. General Karal not wanting to look like he didn't already know this tidbit of information nodded wisely. He could get a lot of money for that little piece of gossip.
"Yes of course my Highness, I had forgotten your abilities. I was only concerned about your safety. Please excuse my rudeness." He said masterfully.
" Of course General, now please don't worry about us. Go and get some rest. I'll see you in the morning." I said to him.
" Yes Highness."
" It's Serenity."
" Of course... Serenity."
I shivered when he said my name. There was something unnatural about his pronunciation of it that left a slimy feeling all about. Runka shot him a dirty look as we started to leave. He bowed as we passed him and hurried around a standing manservant in the hall.
Once we were out of the wing Miri took hold of my elbow as I fought down the urge to vomit. As soon as I could steady myself we continued through the cramped halls. It seemed like forever before we finally reached the backcourt yard. I took cover beside a bush and dry heaved as Miri and Runka stood watch, waiting for me to finish.
" I told ya she was gonna blow." I heard Runka say to Miri. At least she was getting some humor from this because I sure as hell am not.
I raised myself when I was done, and wiped my mouth on my sleeve as strange new smells caught my attention. The air was musty and cold from the lack of sunlight. It chilled my face as the strange type of bush I leaned against pricked my arm.
" Ouch! Why didn't you warn me this thing pricks?" I whispered groggily at their feet.
" Sorry it didn't occur to me. Come on we can talk once we reach the practice fields." Miri whispered back as she led me away from the offending bush.
" Is Setsuna gonna be there?" Haruka asked.
"Yes, I finally got in contact with her while you were helping Rena." Michiru answered.
Slightly curious I asked about this Setsuna woman.
" Who is she?" I mumbled to Haruka.
" Who, Setsuna? She's the Lady Pluto." She said wrapping her arm about my shoulders as Miri led the way through dense underbrush to what appeared to be an abandoned practice arena . " Setsuna is her birth name, but you don't tell anyone else that 'cause she wants it secret. No one else knows 'cept for King Chronas and-" I stumbled. "-oops steady now, here get a better hold on my arm, you ok now?" At my weary nod she continued. "Anyway the last person to know her name is the Queen of the Silver Millennium, which is now you. That's not counting us, but we wouldn't be in the count anyway cause we're her fellow soldiers as you will soon be."
We came to a halt at the edge of the field lingering in the shadows of silent trees waiting most likely, for the Lady Pluto. My guess was correct because a figure, which seemed to consist of nothing but shadows itself drifted towards us. She walked on silent feet, her gray cloak moving slightly with her movements. Just as I was certain I was imagining her she reached us and removed her hood revealing deep ruby eyes swimming with knowledge, along with the tan skin and dark green hair I was slowly becoming accustomed to here on Pluto.
She stood before me and I bowed in respect, acknowledging that she was of higher standing than I.
"Lady," I said, " It is a pleasure to finally meet you." I stood slowly as she responded, trying to recapture balance on my unsteady legs.
" Highness, it is also my pleasure to meet you." She said returning my bow. " I have been waiting for you. It is time that you start your training. I will be teaching you stealth and magery. Haruka will teach you in physical training, identification and immunization of all known poisons, and self defense. Michiru will teach you in etiquette, as well as the art of healing. We have let you join us and now you must show that you are equal to our opinions of you. Are you willing to sacrifice yourself for your Kingdom, Serenity? Can you make this commitment? There is still time to back out. Once you know our secrets there is no turning back. You will be bound to us by a part of your soul as a part of our soul will in turn, be bound to you."
I hesitated to answer. I wanted very badly to join them in soul but I was not sure I could sacrifice that part of myself. What if it was necessary to betray them? Could I actually do it? What if I had no choice? What if they were to die or get hurt rendering me emotionally unable to rule. In time, what if the Kingdom's salvation depended on me and I was not able to come through because of this bonding to them. Could I really endanger my whole people for this.
Michiru explained a little more for my benefit. " That means that if you betray us you will die, but don't think that this is only a leash we have to keep a tab on you. With the bonding of our souls you will also receive three friends who know you and understand you more than you understand yourself. It is also how you will understand us. You won't have much privacy because we will be able to feel any strong emotion you have, but the bond is the most wonderful thing in my life. You will feel our pain and love as we will feel yours. I would not withdraw my bond with Haruka and Setsuna if my life depended on it. It's beautiful Rena, truly beautiful."
I still did not answer although they were waiting. A slight breeze brushed my cheek and toying slightly with my hair. A symphony of night creatures started, celebrating the calm night together. I listened trying to find an answer to give them.
Runka understood my hesitation. " If it is needed you may betray us to save the Silver Millennium. If it is the only way you can save the Kingdom, you will be left unharmed physically and free to reign with full powers. The only problem with that solution is that you will be extremely saddened until your death. You would be unable to take much joy out of life, except for the joy of helping your people, but you will still be able to be a good Queen. Your responsibility to the Silver Millennium will always come before us."
" There is always a risk. Will you join us Serenity? Are you willing to become a Sailor Soldier?" Setsuna demanded in a ringing voice, her hair moving with the breeze around her gray cloak.
The wind picked up as if in response to her demand and my emotions. How could I refuse? Miri and Runka are already part of my family. I want revenge for the moon too badly to give in because of a slight chance that I would not be able to rule the Silver Millennium. The slight chance that I might die leaving everyone else in chaos. I need to become a soldier. I need to fight for my people actively and among them. I need to stand by them on the fields of battle against Metallia. We will defeat them together!!!
" Yes I will join you. We will fight with our people." I stated." We will destroy the resistance and once again live in peace. Before peace is to come though we must revenge all those who are hurt or who have died. We will fight for them together the four of us and any who will join our cause. METALLIA WILL BE PUNISHED!!" I screamed as the wind shrieked around us, whipping my hair and battering my body as the surrounding trees howled and years of decaying leaves ripped off the ground to join in the fury.
" Serenity VI, Queen of the Silver Millennium and the fallen Moon Kingdom, I bond you now to the protector of Neptune, Lady Michiru, princess of the royal family Kaioh of Neptune, second heir to the throne of Neptune." Setsuna screamed above the wind.
I felt another presence inside my heart. I felt the ache of love, a beauty incomparable with anything else in this world. I felt a deep ocean full of life and surprises. I heard the strains of a violin playing gently throughout the twisting depths. I felt eloquence and grace. I felt Michiru. I gasped as The Time-Keeper continued with the ceremony.
"Serenity VI, Queen of the Silver Millennium and the fallen Moon Kingdom, I bond you to the protector of Uranus, Lady Haruka, princess of the royal family Tenou of Uranus, third heir to the throne of Uranus." Her voice overpowered the windstorm so great was her power. I felt a shiver run through me as a second presence entered my body, Haruka.
Once again there was love, a love so great it was almost overwhelming. She was the wind around me. She let me feel freely how she rode the wind in her free time. It was her greatest joy. Her devotion to me was almost scary so fanatical was her need to protect me. She was no longer my cousin but was instead my sister. I felt her unending love for Michiru. I felt her longing for a fight and her curiosity to see any world she could. I felt her hot temper as fast as the wind and just as deadly when blown into a storm. I rejoiced to have her. Setsuna continued on.
"Serenity VI, Queen of the Silver Millennium and the fallen Moon Kingdom, I bond you to myself, the protector of Pluto, Lady Setsuna, Keeper of the time gate, protector of all worlds."
Her presence joined the others but hers was greater than Runka's and Miri' combined. She was a creature of wisdom, the oldest known being in all the galaxies. She was filled with memories and regrets. Her sense of duty was greater than that of Haruka. She was the result of the need for a protector to keep the time line stable. She understood my pain, sharp as a twisting knife in my gut. She could relate to losing loved ones. Our two thousand year lifespan was like an Earthling's scant one hundred years compared to her. She has lived millions of years and yet has only been alive for a couple of decades. She felt my frustration of not being able to help and I felt her sorrow at letting the Moon Kingdom and my Mother die. We understood each other.
**************Flash Back***************************
My side is aching. I don't understand how we can be under attack. How can we be this defenseless? Endy should not be fighting the damn fool! I can't believe he told me to hide! I have to speak to Mina; she'll know what's going on.
I ran through hallways filled with panicked screaming people all trying to reach out to me, all wanting my protection and comfort. But I could not stop so I shouted to them words of comfort as I ran past.
"It's alright everything's under control. Find a place to hide and I will come get you when this disturbance is over."
They clung to my repeated phrase with undoubting belief, so great was their faith in me. I ran on past them to the War Command Room where I found all of my court.
" Mina what's going on? Endy said we were under attack and he told me to hide but I didn't believe him until I started hearing all those screams. My people don't know what to do and I don't know what to do, and I want to know. What do I need to do!!!" I was slightly hysterical.
Every couple of seconds I felt another person die and their pain stabbed deep in me. I had a strong bond with my people, so strong that I felt every violent death on the moon. I could only imagine what Mother felt. She was boned with all the people in the Sliver Millennium! I doubled over in pain. One of the Palace guards fell from a wound in the stomach. Mother hasn't taught me how to dim my link with my subjects yet and now I'm feeling all their pain. I screamed.
"Help- help them ! I can feel everyone.... it hurts so much....please...help them!!!" I whispered urgently to Rei who had fallen to my side.
" Rena, it's okay. Open your mind to me. Open your mind Rena, come on Rena it's okay. Everything will be all right just open your mind." I did as she commanded.
The pain was no longer so intense. It was bearable. Rei had blocked their pain from me. The tears still ran down my face. Rei held my face comforting me. I noticed that my friends were in their Sailor Solider uniforms.
"It's really that serious Rei? Was Endy right?" At her solemn nod I cried again and staggered to my feet.
"It's time for you to hide." Lita said to me eyeing up my shaking limbs. "You are too exhausted to wield any type of weapon."
" I want to help" I stated wincing as another of my subjects fell.
" You can't, you'd only get yourself killed." Mina stated as if I couldn't do anything. I did have some power. I could help too.
"You can go willingly or else we'll drag you to the shelter. Don't think that we won't either." Lita said.
"They're dying! MY PEOPLE ARE DYING! I NEED TO HELP THEM!!!"
"Rena you need to lead the people to the shelter. We already tried but they won't listen to us. Look at them, they're pitiful. They love you and will follow you wherever you lead them because of that. They need your direction and it's your duty to help them." Ami said while the others agreed. Trust Ami to always find a reason for you to do something.
"Ok, I can do that, but when I'm done I'm coming to help." They nodded reluctantly to my compromise.
Pain of the death of yet another Lunarian hit me, making me realize just how urgent it actually was to get my people to safety.
"You guys be careful. I'm gonna go get started." I said before flying out of the room. Paying no heed to their shouts of caution I gathered the first heap of terrified people and ushered them towards the shelter gathering more as we moved slowly on.
If the death of my people was hard then the death of the members of my court felt like the destruction of the galaxy. Lita went down first. I felt every shard of dark crystal slam through her body. I felt the moment one piece butchered her lung popping it like a balloon. I felt the exact instant another pierced her heart and I felt in her last few seconds her head being mashed to a pulp by the stampeding troops of Metallia, ruining any chance of recovery for her.
Ami was next, dear sweet Ami. It was just as I was staggering back to my feet from living Lita's death amongst my grief stricken people in the shelter, that I felt her. I lived through the last agonizing hour of her life. I remember her surprise when she recognized Zoisite, her former lover, and then her heart break as he betrayed her. Toying with her he easily overpowered her magic with the help of Metallia. I remember the feel of the ropes he bound her with. I could feel the pain of her body as she was gang-raped and I felt every thrust as he looked on and laughed. And I remember her relief when he finally ended it by hacking off parts of her body piece by piece.
By the time he was finished with her I was too late. I don't know exactly how or when I got out of the shelter but I do remember stumbling into the room in the palace where she was held and seeing parts of her scattered about. I stumbled into the room unable to accept that I could not save her. I had already lost Lita. I was not about to lose her. I stared using my healing powers. I pieced her back together but her body could not live again. I was not strong enough to bring her back. At least my dear Ami was no longer in pieces.
" I will remember what he did to us," I whispered to her corpse. " The bastard will pay Ami, I swear he will pay." I promised while kissing her cold stiff brow.
It may have been a couple hours before I finally left her, but then again it may have only been a couple of minutes. I can't really recall the time. But I do remember the first signs of Rei being in trouble.
I found both Rei and Mina out in the back courtyard. They were fighting right by that cursed bridge. Mina was bleeding heavily. Rei was distressed and rightly so because Jadeite was her opponent. Jadeite was her lover, best friend, and in short he was her entire world. She sensed me and glanced my way. She knew what had happened to Lita and Ami. She also knew that I had felt what they had. I was her last hope. The Goddess had said that the coming of my true powers was the only thing that would stop Metallia. My powers did not come. I had already depleted what little powers I had by trying and failing to save Ami.
I shook my head indicating that they had not come. I saw her despair and I saw her request. She wanted to die. She would rather die by her lover's hands than to fight against him especially if there was no hope for the kingdom. I could not deny her request. I gave her permission with a nod while screaming in my mind for her to fight him.
She sent a burst of her psychic powers towards me. I added them to my own also adding a piece of Rei to myself as well as a new power. She must of heard my unvoiced despair though because when she fell into his sword startling Mina into hysterics, she let out her life-force in a concentrated burst, burning out his mind.
Even though I had told her that she could die I could not repress my startled scream nor could I forgive myself for letting her die. At least she had the courage to take him with her. She died a Sailor Soldier.
"RRRRRRRREEEEEEEEIIIIIIIIIIIIII!!!!" I screamed.
Mina finally noticed me there. She must of had some idea of what had happened between me and Rei because she did nothing but run towards me and envelope me in a hug. I used the last of my healing energy to stop her bleeding.
"Rena, thank the Goddess your here. Did your powers come yet?"
"No, they didn't, I'm so sorry Mina, I'm so sorry." I whimpered.
"Shh it's alright, it's not your fault they didn't come. Maybe the Goddess has some different plans for us. Let's try and get a hold of Lita and Ami. Rei," Her voiced chocked as she finally realized that she was dead. "Rei killed Jadeite for us, and we shouldn't let her sacrifice be for nothing huh." She tried to say as if her best friend dying was an everyday occurrence.
"Ami and Lita are dead Mina, I couldn't save them. I used up all my healing powers trying to piece Ami back together but I couldn't bring her back, and there was no hope once so ever for Lita. I couldn't even save Rei. I failed you and I'm sorry." I sobbed.
It took Mina a while to take all that in. Then she slipped on a cold facade and used her disguise pen to turn herself into me.
"They won't know which one of us is the real princess like this." She said to me.
"Come on, we need to find your mother and get out of here."
We ran away from the bridge and through blood filled halls. We dodged small groups of fighting as if we were on the practice field. Finally we found Mother in the frontcourt yard with the Sailor Soldiers Uranus and Neptune, and with Endy guarding their backs. She did not look my way; she already knew that I had not received my powers. I was nothing but a failure to her yet again. Mina bristled at Mother's lack of response towards me. Endy gave us a worried glance.
" I don't know who's who but whoever's Serenity you should not be out here." He said.
It was my turn to bristle. Mina answered him. "There is no hope for the survival of the Moon Kingdom. We need to leave." She said.
And the strangest thing happened; Endy sprinted and pushed Mina to the ground succeeding in slamming himself into a powerful blast of energy from the head witch Beryl.
"Nnnnnnoooooooooooo!!!" Mina screamed, as I stood stupefied. Her love flowed from her body as he said his final words to her. I had always believed that she truly loved him. Now I knew why she had been avoiding me ever since my engagement to him.
"Rena," he said reaching for Mina's disguised face, "beloved I'm sorry."
"Noo ENDYMION!!" She screamed. I felt her intense pain to his death. I felt her sadness that it was not her name that he had spoken but mine. I felt that I had also betrayed her in my ignorance to her love for Endy. She was not sane when she let go of his body. She was beyond reason.
"Mina don't go near her!!" I screamed as she walked out of the shield that the Sailor Soldiers Uranus and Neptune had constructed.
She stepped out of the shield only to be blown back in as another killing blast of energy was let lose. Her death was coming quickly as was Endy's, but I still had time to bind them. I dragged her over to where Endy was. I laid their cold bodies side by side as I grabbed them both and rocked them into death while signing a song of sorrow and binding. Their life forces slowly faded away and Mina changed back from me into herself. Endy and Mina were together if not in life then at least in death. Within my song was a binding of souls. They were soul mates from now until the end of time.
Mother pried me from Endy's body right as I was closing his eyes. She shoved me into the hands of Uranus. I was in total shock by this time so I'm sure she did not expect an answer from me.
" Serenity, do not worry for me daughter, I can take care of myself. Worry instead for our kingdom and pick up the pieces after this battle is over. Your friends will be reborn on Earth in a time of peace as well as all the in habitants of the Moon. You shall travel to Pluto with Sailors Uranus and Neptune. Once this commotion dies down you shall take up the throne. The Silver Millennium must not fall. I do love you Serenity, never forget that. Go and live well."
With that said she left us. Her appearance was disheveled but
she carried herself proudly, like the Queen she was as she headed to
her death. Screams of torture flew around the area leaving me to shudder
and cry shamelessly as Uranus forced me away from Mother and towards the boarding deck. Sailor Neptune met us halfway to the dock.
" It's no good. Those scum have the docks blocked."
" What 'bout Duke Hashes private ships? His estate 's only a mile away? I'm sure he wouldn' mind us borrowing one." Uranus growled. Neptune nodded.
" All right we'll head there then. We have to hurry though."
She looked pointedly in my direction. I'm sure I was a sight to see, quaking and covered in blood, I was a nothing more than a burden to them. Even the fact that I was probably the most important being inour galaxy did not hold much sway for them. The Outer Soldiers never take up body guarding. That was what the Inner Soldiers were for. I knew I had to pull myself together. It would not be well if they had no respect for their future queen. If I did not show them I am strong now, they will never believe I can be. So I did the only thing I could.
"I can run. I've had a lot of practice. I can keep up." She glanced at me and gave another of her curt nods.
" 'lright then lets get going."
It was the longest run I had ever endured. This was no game with Lita. My life was at stake. We had reached the mansion in no less than ten minuets but it felt like ten hours. The only ship left was a little pleasure pod. While Uranus readied our small ship Neptune and I made a search of the empty house taking some clothing and provisions. When we returned the ship was ready so we boarded and took off dodging energy blasts from Metallia's space army.
" Damn bastards! When I get my hands on them ..." Uranus cursed.
The last thing I heard was Neptune calming her down as we reached safe space before I feel into a dream plagued sleep.
******************* End Flashback ***********************
I heard Haruka shout her shock at my memory and feelings and Michiru's scream transfixed me. Setsuna, her face filled with horror, fought the wind towards me. I felt her grab my arm and at the same time she also grabbed my mind. The wind died down. I realized suddenly that I had been controlling the wind during the whole ceremony. Miri uncurled from her fetal position on the leaf littered ground with the help of the shaking Runka.
"She is consumed with horrors and grief," Miri whispered. "Her pain is-is indescribable! How could she feel like that without even giving a hint of it?"
"You're wrong Miri, it isn't just horrors and grief, it's self hate. She despises herself. Her home was butchered and she hates herself for her failure to defend it. Although she does not know it the death of her guards is what gave her, her powers as the Goddess had predicted. They are hidden within her right now but soon they will come out and grow. But right now the only thing keeping her alive is her duty and her need for vengeance." Setsuna whispered towards the shaking couple, grief lines etched in her face. Then she continued.
"She shows her pain to you every day. Have you ever seen her grieve? She bottles her grief so that she can act as a good queen, as she must. Now you know how unstable she is. Now you know her breaking point is greater than most. She wields an amazing amount of power for one so young and she is on the verge of insanity. She will do anything to prevent the fall of another kingdom or even a friend. This is her greatest weakness but it is necessary that she have it. Now we must help her, cherish and protect her, and be the family she so desperately needs. She is the profit, the bringer of peace and the destroyer of evil. She is Sailor Moon."
Setsuna let go of my mind warily. I was stunned that they knew my feelings about the very things I have been working so hard to conceal. It hurt to see Haruka and Michiru shaking on the ground looking anywhere but at me. I glanced around at the wreckage of broken trees and then back to the woman standing before me. She held my arm firmly and did not flinch when I looked into her eyes. She did not fear my power. She did not fear me. I collapsed in her waiting arms and released all of my pain and rage in a half shriek half sob, which woke most of my subjects on Pluto.
******************
So that was the end of chapter three. How do you like it? Let me know!
Please review!
See you next chapter ~_~;
Messy Meg
Meghanscuderi@hotmail.com
Disclaimer - Obviously I do not own Sailor Moon but this story and its original characters ARE mine so please don't take them.
Rating - PG13 for curse words.
"We write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospection."
- Anais Nin
******************
I Shall not Perish
Chapter Three
By: Messy Meg
******************
The halls of the palace are a definite change from what I'm used to. They're cramped and dark despite the bright lighting from the ceilings above. Plunarians have absolutely no regard for those with claustrophobia! I am sure I would be highly uncomfortable if not for the millions of beautiful paintings that tell our Galaxy's history used for relief on the drab walls. They amaze me. Their colors and emotions are fascinating. We have been walking to my room for a little over ten minutes. I'm so hungry. General Karal says we are almost there. I can't wait to eat! I'm sure that he hears my stomach. It's sooo embarrassing but who could blame me? It's not like I only have to eat once a week like the Mercurians.
General Karal really puts me on edge. He seems impatient one minute, but then, it's like he suddenly remembers exactly who he's with and is totally serious and courteous. As for my behavior towards him, well let's just say I'm the perfect queen.
"Your Highness, we're here." General Karal informed me.
" Thank you General, but please just call me Serenity seeing as we will be together for quite awhile. Also, I wish to thank you for escorting me to my room. I am truly grateful for all you have done for me."
I said to him as any good queen would. It was also a clear dismissal but he stayed where he was and nodded in agreement with me.
I stared at him obviously waiting for a response and a good night.
" Yes well, you can be assured it was no trouble on my part. Of course we will be able to talk about this once we are seated for dinner."
I hope I don't look as shocked as I feel. He just invited himself to take part in MY dinner, when I had clearly stated that I did not want him there. I am the Queen of the Silver Millennium! No one ever invites themselves to dine with the Queen! Not even the highest-ranking general on Pluto!
Okay, so I am a *little conceited* I admit that, but let's be fair and agree that the cause of this trait was from my upbringing. Anyway back to the problem, what exactly can I do? Slam the door in his face? I guess I could but then again, what would that accomplish? Humm…. well he would be out of my room. That's a plus. That would also mean I can finally have some time to myself. I could eat, take a bath, and rest all I want. Four extra points there..... On the other hand he would think me extremely childish, and that is not exactly the image I want to present. Okay that would deduct just about all those points so I should just decide what I want. Do I want him to see me as a child or as the Queen that I am....hmm what to do, what to do....like there was really any other choice, the child in me won by a landslide.
" Yes of course once we are seated…." I started as I opened the door and walked in smiling sweetly, " for dinner tomorrow night." I continued as I slammed the door in his surprised face.
" Thanks for escorting me General Karal." I yelled through the door grinning ridiculously.
Hopefully I won't see him tomorrow. He's already starting to annoy me, and I have to spend the rest of my life with him! What did I get myself into!!? Sighing, I took a glance around as I leaned heavily against the door. I seem to be in the common room. It fortunately is completely unlike the halls behind me, even though those paintings were beautiful. The rooms seem to be designed specifically for Lunarian tastes, bright and airy. But that is not really important because there sitting on a table is, miracle of miracles a HUMONGUS tray of food! I'll look around later....
******************
Michiru and Haruka found me a couple of hours later having a meaningful conversation with the toilet.
" 'Rena you idiot, didn't anyone ever tell you you're not 'supposed to gorge yourself after starving for two days?"
Haruka always did have a way of making you feel better.
" Thanks for the support, Runka, you're always there when I need you." I grumbled raising my head slightly from the toilet so that I could see them. She grinned happily at me.
" Any time."
"Oh Rena..... you poor thing. Here let me pull back your hair." Miri said as I emptied my stomach yet again.
Her hands felt cool on my neck just like Mother's did that day when dad died. It's funny, that's the only time I can remember her comforting me. I was four... no five when Daddy died in that raid on Jupiter. I remember Mother with me in my room when I found out. We sat on my bed and I cried myself to sleep in her arms...while she rubbed my head until her hands finally fell to rest on my neck. I think she loved me that day, just for being myself. I wasn't her strange fanciful failure, but was instead her grief stricken daughter. I had to give mother that, she was considerate to me that day. We had both lost the one person we loved most. Daddy was a connection between us that was shattered and we both felt the pain of not having him anymore. After his death Mother drifted farther away from me. I guess it was because I acted so much like him she couldn't stand it.
" 'Rena" Haruka said shaking the memory from my mind. " Why is there a man standing outside your door?"
" He's still here? Why is he still here? I sent him away hours ago! I can't believe he would have the nerve to stay there all this time!!"
I was practically screaming when I finally registered the killing look on my cousin's face and Miri's worried glance.
" Oh no Runka, no it's not like that, it's not anything like that. He's not some weirdo who's following me looking for a date. The King assigned him to my permanent guard. He's General Karal, supposedly the highest-ranking General on all of Pluto. He's harmless." I gasped out calming myself down as well as Haruka.
They glanced at each other but I could not catch on to what they were thinking. Haruka looked away from Michiru and switched her direct gaze to me.
" And General Karal agreed to this?" She barked startling me. I lowered my head back to the toilet bowl.
" Ye- yes why? I was planning on asking Miri to search him with her mirror as soon-" Michiru interrupted me.
" Rena did you agree to him coming into your service?"
" Yes. What? What did you want me to do, refuse him? He was a "gift" from the king." I snapped becoming annoyed. What did I do wrong? Miri lowered her voice.
" We need to go practice."
"In the middle of the night!!?" I protested.
Seemingly oblivious to my shock, Haruka agreed with her " Your right, like always pet." she stated lovingly and then barked at me, " 'Rena get sum suitable clothes on you can't practice 'n that." she said looking down at my frilly dress.
She reached for my arm but I snatched it away from her grasping hand. I raised my self from the toilet shaking slightly from exhaustion. Angry with them I stormed out of the room. "Make sure you bring that worthless crystal of yours too." Haruka growled behind me.
What did I do wrong? I can't believe the way they are acting towards me! Practice in the middle of the night when they know I'm not feeling well! And what the hell did Haruka mean "worthless" crystal? She knows that the Silver Imperial Crystal is the most powerful weapon in this galaxy! How dare she insult me! How could she say that? Hot tears sprung up, welling in my eyes. I WILL NOT CRY!
I struggled into some men's slacks and forced a black sweater over my head. I collapsed down on a nearby chair to put on my boots and just about lost it when Runka walked into my room. She immediately came to my side and hugged me leaving a sisterly kiss on my cheek. I was confused. One minute she was extremely mean and the next all loving. What the hell was she trying to pull?
" Ru-" She placed a hand on my lips, commanding silence with her eyes, as she shook her head indicating that I was not to speak. I may be mad at her, but even angry I still trust her with my life. I nodded indicating that I would follow any lead she started. She grinned at me and quickly laced up my boots for me. Then she yanked me to my feet and started towards the common room, I followed like a cowed dog.
Miri was waiting for us with a pack slung on her shoulder. She nodded curtly and then we headed for the door. Runka positioned herself behind me and Miri took the lead. Haruka smiled at me and pointed to her ear and then around the room indicating that the room was bugged. Realization choose to dawn on me finally, and I nodded that I understood. She grinned once more but I didn't respond, I had to throw up again. Miri issued a biting comment towards me for the benefit of the bug.
"Can't you do anything right? You obviously can't carry the pack, so stop trying too. Goddess I wish we could leave you."
I picked up the thread instantly.
" I'm sorry Michiru. I promise I'll try harder. I need you, if your not here with me then no one will listen to me. I'd lose the throne!! Please don't leave me!" My voice was high pitched and almost on the verge of sobs. I could see Haruka wince out of the corner of my eye. Ahh... how sweet revenge can be, at least I could get her back a little bit. A few real tears actually sprung up as my thoughts drifted to Mina. If I could, I would thank her for all those acting lessons she gave me.
" Just shut up and stop crying 'r else someone will think sumthing's wrong." Haruka growled while making stupid faces at me.
I started smiling and covered growing giggles with fake sobs. I composed myself, steadying my shaking limbs, as Miri opened the door. On the other side of the small hall stood the handsome General Karal, agitated and impersonal.
"My Highness," he breathed bowing low. "I thought I would not see you again tonight."
" General, please stand." He straightened, giving me one of his handsome smiles. " I also had not intended on seeing you again tonight, but the ladies Uranus and Neptune say that it is imperative that we practice tonight. Now if you will excuse us...." I said.
" Do you need an escort Highness? Pluto has many hidden dangers." He asked already walking towards us to join our small group.
" No, thank you General but I'm sure the Ladies will be sufficient guides as well as body guards." He opened his mouth to protest but I quickly cut him off.
" General, it's time you get some rest." I ordered. " I expect you to meet me tomorrow morning and I need you well rested and able to think or else you will be worthless to me. You can't do that if you join us on our night escapades. We unlike you General have no need to sleep as I'm sure you know." That was a total fib but no one actually knew what the Outer Soldiers and High Queen could really do. General Karal not wanting to look like he didn't already know this tidbit of information nodded wisely. He could get a lot of money for that little piece of gossip.
"Yes of course my Highness, I had forgotten your abilities. I was only concerned about your safety. Please excuse my rudeness." He said masterfully.
" Of course General, now please don't worry about us. Go and get some rest. I'll see you in the morning." I said to him.
" Yes Highness."
" It's Serenity."
" Of course... Serenity."
I shivered when he said my name. There was something unnatural about his pronunciation of it that left a slimy feeling all about. Runka shot him a dirty look as we started to leave. He bowed as we passed him and hurried around a standing manservant in the hall.
Once we were out of the wing Miri took hold of my elbow as I fought down the urge to vomit. As soon as I could steady myself we continued through the cramped halls. It seemed like forever before we finally reached the backcourt yard. I took cover beside a bush and dry heaved as Miri and Runka stood watch, waiting for me to finish.
" I told ya she was gonna blow." I heard Runka say to Miri. At least she was getting some humor from this because I sure as hell am not.
I raised myself when I was done, and wiped my mouth on my sleeve as strange new smells caught my attention. The air was musty and cold from the lack of sunlight. It chilled my face as the strange type of bush I leaned against pricked my arm.
" Ouch! Why didn't you warn me this thing pricks?" I whispered groggily at their feet.
" Sorry it didn't occur to me. Come on we can talk once we reach the practice fields." Miri whispered back as she led me away from the offending bush.
" Is Setsuna gonna be there?" Haruka asked.
"Yes, I finally got in contact with her while you were helping Rena." Michiru answered.
Slightly curious I asked about this Setsuna woman.
" Who is she?" I mumbled to Haruka.
" Who, Setsuna? She's the Lady Pluto." She said wrapping her arm about my shoulders as Miri led the way through dense underbrush to what appeared to be an abandoned practice arena . " Setsuna is her birth name, but you don't tell anyone else that 'cause she wants it secret. No one else knows 'cept for King Chronas and-" I stumbled. "-oops steady now, here get a better hold on my arm, you ok now?" At my weary nod she continued. "Anyway the last person to know her name is the Queen of the Silver Millennium, which is now you. That's not counting us, but we wouldn't be in the count anyway cause we're her fellow soldiers as you will soon be."
We came to a halt at the edge of the field lingering in the shadows of silent trees waiting most likely, for the Lady Pluto. My guess was correct because a figure, which seemed to consist of nothing but shadows itself drifted towards us. She walked on silent feet, her gray cloak moving slightly with her movements. Just as I was certain I was imagining her she reached us and removed her hood revealing deep ruby eyes swimming with knowledge, along with the tan skin and dark green hair I was slowly becoming accustomed to here on Pluto.
She stood before me and I bowed in respect, acknowledging that she was of higher standing than I.
"Lady," I said, " It is a pleasure to finally meet you." I stood slowly as she responded, trying to recapture balance on my unsteady legs.
" Highness, it is also my pleasure to meet you." She said returning my bow. " I have been waiting for you. It is time that you start your training. I will be teaching you stealth and magery. Haruka will teach you in physical training, identification and immunization of all known poisons, and self defense. Michiru will teach you in etiquette, as well as the art of healing. We have let you join us and now you must show that you are equal to our opinions of you. Are you willing to sacrifice yourself for your Kingdom, Serenity? Can you make this commitment? There is still time to back out. Once you know our secrets there is no turning back. You will be bound to us by a part of your soul as a part of our soul will in turn, be bound to you."
I hesitated to answer. I wanted very badly to join them in soul but I was not sure I could sacrifice that part of myself. What if it was necessary to betray them? Could I actually do it? What if I had no choice? What if they were to die or get hurt rendering me emotionally unable to rule. In time, what if the Kingdom's salvation depended on me and I was not able to come through because of this bonding to them. Could I really endanger my whole people for this.
Michiru explained a little more for my benefit. " That means that if you betray us you will die, but don't think that this is only a leash we have to keep a tab on you. With the bonding of our souls you will also receive three friends who know you and understand you more than you understand yourself. It is also how you will understand us. You won't have much privacy because we will be able to feel any strong emotion you have, but the bond is the most wonderful thing in my life. You will feel our pain and love as we will feel yours. I would not withdraw my bond with Haruka and Setsuna if my life depended on it. It's beautiful Rena, truly beautiful."
I still did not answer although they were waiting. A slight breeze brushed my cheek and toying slightly with my hair. A symphony of night creatures started, celebrating the calm night together. I listened trying to find an answer to give them.
Runka understood my hesitation. " If it is needed you may betray us to save the Silver Millennium. If it is the only way you can save the Kingdom, you will be left unharmed physically and free to reign with full powers. The only problem with that solution is that you will be extremely saddened until your death. You would be unable to take much joy out of life, except for the joy of helping your people, but you will still be able to be a good Queen. Your responsibility to the Silver Millennium will always come before us."
" There is always a risk. Will you join us Serenity? Are you willing to become a Sailor Soldier?" Setsuna demanded in a ringing voice, her hair moving with the breeze around her gray cloak.
The wind picked up as if in response to her demand and my emotions. How could I refuse? Miri and Runka are already part of my family. I want revenge for the moon too badly to give in because of a slight chance that I would not be able to rule the Silver Millennium. The slight chance that I might die leaving everyone else in chaos. I need to become a soldier. I need to fight for my people actively and among them. I need to stand by them on the fields of battle against Metallia. We will defeat them together!!!
" Yes I will join you. We will fight with our people." I stated." We will destroy the resistance and once again live in peace. Before peace is to come though we must revenge all those who are hurt or who have died. We will fight for them together the four of us and any who will join our cause. METALLIA WILL BE PUNISHED!!" I screamed as the wind shrieked around us, whipping my hair and battering my body as the surrounding trees howled and years of decaying leaves ripped off the ground to join in the fury.
" Serenity VI, Queen of the Silver Millennium and the fallen Moon Kingdom, I bond you now to the protector of Neptune, Lady Michiru, princess of the royal family Kaioh of Neptune, second heir to the throne of Neptune." Setsuna screamed above the wind.
I felt another presence inside my heart. I felt the ache of love, a beauty incomparable with anything else in this world. I felt a deep ocean full of life and surprises. I heard the strains of a violin playing gently throughout the twisting depths. I felt eloquence and grace. I felt Michiru. I gasped as The Time-Keeper continued with the ceremony.
"Serenity VI, Queen of the Silver Millennium and the fallen Moon Kingdom, I bond you to the protector of Uranus, Lady Haruka, princess of the royal family Tenou of Uranus, third heir to the throne of Uranus." Her voice overpowered the windstorm so great was her power. I felt a shiver run through me as a second presence entered my body, Haruka.
Once again there was love, a love so great it was almost overwhelming. She was the wind around me. She let me feel freely how she rode the wind in her free time. It was her greatest joy. Her devotion to me was almost scary so fanatical was her need to protect me. She was no longer my cousin but was instead my sister. I felt her unending love for Michiru. I felt her longing for a fight and her curiosity to see any world she could. I felt her hot temper as fast as the wind and just as deadly when blown into a storm. I rejoiced to have her. Setsuna continued on.
"Serenity VI, Queen of the Silver Millennium and the fallen Moon Kingdom, I bond you to myself, the protector of Pluto, Lady Setsuna, Keeper of the time gate, protector of all worlds."
Her presence joined the others but hers was greater than Runka's and Miri' combined. She was a creature of wisdom, the oldest known being in all the galaxies. She was filled with memories and regrets. Her sense of duty was greater than that of Haruka. She was the result of the need for a protector to keep the time line stable. She understood my pain, sharp as a twisting knife in my gut. She could relate to losing loved ones. Our two thousand year lifespan was like an Earthling's scant one hundred years compared to her. She has lived millions of years and yet has only been alive for a couple of decades. She felt my frustration of not being able to help and I felt her sorrow at letting the Moon Kingdom and my Mother die. We understood each other.
**************Flash Back***************************
My side is aching. I don't understand how we can be under attack. How can we be this defenseless? Endy should not be fighting the damn fool! I can't believe he told me to hide! I have to speak to Mina; she'll know what's going on.
I ran through hallways filled with panicked screaming people all trying to reach out to me, all wanting my protection and comfort. But I could not stop so I shouted to them words of comfort as I ran past.
"It's alright everything's under control. Find a place to hide and I will come get you when this disturbance is over."
They clung to my repeated phrase with undoubting belief, so great was their faith in me. I ran on past them to the War Command Room where I found all of my court.
" Mina what's going on? Endy said we were under attack and he told me to hide but I didn't believe him until I started hearing all those screams. My people don't know what to do and I don't know what to do, and I want to know. What do I need to do!!!" I was slightly hysterical.
Every couple of seconds I felt another person die and their pain stabbed deep in me. I had a strong bond with my people, so strong that I felt every violent death on the moon. I could only imagine what Mother felt. She was boned with all the people in the Sliver Millennium! I doubled over in pain. One of the Palace guards fell from a wound in the stomach. Mother hasn't taught me how to dim my link with my subjects yet and now I'm feeling all their pain. I screamed.
"Help- help them ! I can feel everyone.... it hurts so much....please...help them!!!" I whispered urgently to Rei who had fallen to my side.
" Rena, it's okay. Open your mind to me. Open your mind Rena, come on Rena it's okay. Everything will be all right just open your mind." I did as she commanded.
The pain was no longer so intense. It was bearable. Rei had blocked their pain from me. The tears still ran down my face. Rei held my face comforting me. I noticed that my friends were in their Sailor Solider uniforms.
"It's really that serious Rei? Was Endy right?" At her solemn nod I cried again and staggered to my feet.
"It's time for you to hide." Lita said to me eyeing up my shaking limbs. "You are too exhausted to wield any type of weapon."
" I want to help" I stated wincing as another of my subjects fell.
" You can't, you'd only get yourself killed." Mina stated as if I couldn't do anything. I did have some power. I could help too.
"You can go willingly or else we'll drag you to the shelter. Don't think that we won't either." Lita said.
"They're dying! MY PEOPLE ARE DYING! I NEED TO HELP THEM!!!"
"Rena you need to lead the people to the shelter. We already tried but they won't listen to us. Look at them, they're pitiful. They love you and will follow you wherever you lead them because of that. They need your direction and it's your duty to help them." Ami said while the others agreed. Trust Ami to always find a reason for you to do something.
"Ok, I can do that, but when I'm done I'm coming to help." They nodded reluctantly to my compromise.
Pain of the death of yet another Lunarian hit me, making me realize just how urgent it actually was to get my people to safety.
"You guys be careful. I'm gonna go get started." I said before flying out of the room. Paying no heed to their shouts of caution I gathered the first heap of terrified people and ushered them towards the shelter gathering more as we moved slowly on.
If the death of my people was hard then the death of the members of my court felt like the destruction of the galaxy. Lita went down first. I felt every shard of dark crystal slam through her body. I felt the moment one piece butchered her lung popping it like a balloon. I felt the exact instant another pierced her heart and I felt in her last few seconds her head being mashed to a pulp by the stampeding troops of Metallia, ruining any chance of recovery for her.
Ami was next, dear sweet Ami. It was just as I was staggering back to my feet from living Lita's death amongst my grief stricken people in the shelter, that I felt her. I lived through the last agonizing hour of her life. I remember her surprise when she recognized Zoisite, her former lover, and then her heart break as he betrayed her. Toying with her he easily overpowered her magic with the help of Metallia. I remember the feel of the ropes he bound her with. I could feel the pain of her body as she was gang-raped and I felt every thrust as he looked on and laughed. And I remember her relief when he finally ended it by hacking off parts of her body piece by piece.
By the time he was finished with her I was too late. I don't know exactly how or when I got out of the shelter but I do remember stumbling into the room in the palace where she was held and seeing parts of her scattered about. I stumbled into the room unable to accept that I could not save her. I had already lost Lita. I was not about to lose her. I stared using my healing powers. I pieced her back together but her body could not live again. I was not strong enough to bring her back. At least my dear Ami was no longer in pieces.
" I will remember what he did to us," I whispered to her corpse. " The bastard will pay Ami, I swear he will pay." I promised while kissing her cold stiff brow.
It may have been a couple hours before I finally left her, but then again it may have only been a couple of minutes. I can't really recall the time. But I do remember the first signs of Rei being in trouble.
I found both Rei and Mina out in the back courtyard. They were fighting right by that cursed bridge. Mina was bleeding heavily. Rei was distressed and rightly so because Jadeite was her opponent. Jadeite was her lover, best friend, and in short he was her entire world. She sensed me and glanced my way. She knew what had happened to Lita and Ami. She also knew that I had felt what they had. I was her last hope. The Goddess had said that the coming of my true powers was the only thing that would stop Metallia. My powers did not come. I had already depleted what little powers I had by trying and failing to save Ami.
I shook my head indicating that they had not come. I saw her despair and I saw her request. She wanted to die. She would rather die by her lover's hands than to fight against him especially if there was no hope for the kingdom. I could not deny her request. I gave her permission with a nod while screaming in my mind for her to fight him.
She sent a burst of her psychic powers towards me. I added them to my own also adding a piece of Rei to myself as well as a new power. She must of heard my unvoiced despair though because when she fell into his sword startling Mina into hysterics, she let out her life-force in a concentrated burst, burning out his mind.
Even though I had told her that she could die I could not repress my startled scream nor could I forgive myself for letting her die. At least she had the courage to take him with her. She died a Sailor Soldier.
"RRRRRRRREEEEEEEEIIIIIIIIIIIIII!!!!" I screamed.
Mina finally noticed me there. She must of had some idea of what had happened between me and Rei because she did nothing but run towards me and envelope me in a hug. I used the last of my healing energy to stop her bleeding.
"Rena, thank the Goddess your here. Did your powers come yet?"
"No, they didn't, I'm so sorry Mina, I'm so sorry." I whimpered.
"Shh it's alright, it's not your fault they didn't come. Maybe the Goddess has some different plans for us. Let's try and get a hold of Lita and Ami. Rei," Her voiced chocked as she finally realized that she was dead. "Rei killed Jadeite for us, and we shouldn't let her sacrifice be for nothing huh." She tried to say as if her best friend dying was an everyday occurrence.
"Ami and Lita are dead Mina, I couldn't save them. I used up all my healing powers trying to piece Ami back together but I couldn't bring her back, and there was no hope once so ever for Lita. I couldn't even save Rei. I failed you and I'm sorry." I sobbed.
It took Mina a while to take all that in. Then she slipped on a cold facade and used her disguise pen to turn herself into me.
"They won't know which one of us is the real princess like this." She said to me.
"Come on, we need to find your mother and get out of here."
We ran away from the bridge and through blood filled halls. We dodged small groups of fighting as if we were on the practice field. Finally we found Mother in the frontcourt yard with the Sailor Soldiers Uranus and Neptune, and with Endy guarding their backs. She did not look my way; she already knew that I had not received my powers. I was nothing but a failure to her yet again. Mina bristled at Mother's lack of response towards me. Endy gave us a worried glance.
" I don't know who's who but whoever's Serenity you should not be out here." He said.
It was my turn to bristle. Mina answered him. "There is no hope for the survival of the Moon Kingdom. We need to leave." She said.
And the strangest thing happened; Endy sprinted and pushed Mina to the ground succeeding in slamming himself into a powerful blast of energy from the head witch Beryl.
"Nnnnnnoooooooooooo!!!" Mina screamed, as I stood stupefied. Her love flowed from her body as he said his final words to her. I had always believed that she truly loved him. Now I knew why she had been avoiding me ever since my engagement to him.
"Rena," he said reaching for Mina's disguised face, "beloved I'm sorry."
"Noo ENDYMION!!" She screamed. I felt her intense pain to his death. I felt her sadness that it was not her name that he had spoken but mine. I felt that I had also betrayed her in my ignorance to her love for Endy. She was not sane when she let go of his body. She was beyond reason.
"Mina don't go near her!!" I screamed as she walked out of the shield that the Sailor Soldiers Uranus and Neptune had constructed.
She stepped out of the shield only to be blown back in as another killing blast of energy was let lose. Her death was coming quickly as was Endy's, but I still had time to bind them. I dragged her over to where Endy was. I laid their cold bodies side by side as I grabbed them both and rocked them into death while signing a song of sorrow and binding. Their life forces slowly faded away and Mina changed back from me into herself. Endy and Mina were together if not in life then at least in death. Within my song was a binding of souls. They were soul mates from now until the end of time.
Mother pried me from Endy's body right as I was closing his eyes. She shoved me into the hands of Uranus. I was in total shock by this time so I'm sure she did not expect an answer from me.
" Serenity, do not worry for me daughter, I can take care of myself. Worry instead for our kingdom and pick up the pieces after this battle is over. Your friends will be reborn on Earth in a time of peace as well as all the in habitants of the Moon. You shall travel to Pluto with Sailors Uranus and Neptune. Once this commotion dies down you shall take up the throne. The Silver Millennium must not fall. I do love you Serenity, never forget that. Go and live well."
With that said she left us. Her appearance was disheveled but
she carried herself proudly, like the Queen she was as she headed to
her death. Screams of torture flew around the area leaving me to shudder
and cry shamelessly as Uranus forced me away from Mother and towards the boarding deck. Sailor Neptune met us halfway to the dock.
" It's no good. Those scum have the docks blocked."
" What 'bout Duke Hashes private ships? His estate 's only a mile away? I'm sure he wouldn' mind us borrowing one." Uranus growled. Neptune nodded.
" All right we'll head there then. We have to hurry though."
She looked pointedly in my direction. I'm sure I was a sight to see, quaking and covered in blood, I was a nothing more than a burden to them. Even the fact that I was probably the most important being inour galaxy did not hold much sway for them. The Outer Soldiers never take up body guarding. That was what the Inner Soldiers were for. I knew I had to pull myself together. It would not be well if they had no respect for their future queen. If I did not show them I am strong now, they will never believe I can be. So I did the only thing I could.
"I can run. I've had a lot of practice. I can keep up." She glanced at me and gave another of her curt nods.
" 'lright then lets get going."
It was the longest run I had ever endured. This was no game with Lita. My life was at stake. We had reached the mansion in no less than ten minuets but it felt like ten hours. The only ship left was a little pleasure pod. While Uranus readied our small ship Neptune and I made a search of the empty house taking some clothing and provisions. When we returned the ship was ready so we boarded and took off dodging energy blasts from Metallia's space army.
" Damn bastards! When I get my hands on them ..." Uranus cursed.
The last thing I heard was Neptune calming her down as we reached safe space before I feel into a dream plagued sleep.
******************* End Flashback ***********************
I heard Haruka shout her shock at my memory and feelings and Michiru's scream transfixed me. Setsuna, her face filled with horror, fought the wind towards me. I felt her grab my arm and at the same time she also grabbed my mind. The wind died down. I realized suddenly that I had been controlling the wind during the whole ceremony. Miri uncurled from her fetal position on the leaf littered ground with the help of the shaking Runka.
"She is consumed with horrors and grief," Miri whispered. "Her pain is-is indescribable! How could she feel like that without even giving a hint of it?"
"You're wrong Miri, it isn't just horrors and grief, it's self hate. She despises herself. Her home was butchered and she hates herself for her failure to defend it. Although she does not know it the death of her guards is what gave her, her powers as the Goddess had predicted. They are hidden within her right now but soon they will come out and grow. But right now the only thing keeping her alive is her duty and her need for vengeance." Setsuna whispered towards the shaking couple, grief lines etched in her face. Then she continued.
"She shows her pain to you every day. Have you ever seen her grieve? She bottles her grief so that she can act as a good queen, as she must. Now you know how unstable she is. Now you know her breaking point is greater than most. She wields an amazing amount of power for one so young and she is on the verge of insanity. She will do anything to prevent the fall of another kingdom or even a friend. This is her greatest weakness but it is necessary that she have it. Now we must help her, cherish and protect her, and be the family she so desperately needs. She is the profit, the bringer of peace and the destroyer of evil. She is Sailor Moon."
Setsuna let go of my mind warily. I was stunned that they knew my feelings about the very things I have been working so hard to conceal. It hurt to see Haruka and Michiru shaking on the ground looking anywhere but at me. I glanced around at the wreckage of broken trees and then back to the woman standing before me. She held my arm firmly and did not flinch when I looked into her eyes. She did not fear my power. She did not fear me. I collapsed in her waiting arms and released all of my pain and rage in a half shriek half sob, which woke most of my subjects on Pluto.
******************
So that was the end of chapter three. How do you like it? Let me know!
Please review!
See you next chapter ~_~;
Messy Meg
