Disclaimer: I don't own it, so if you plan on suing me, go ahead. You'll get some lint and a pen with no ink.
Author's Note: I'm sorry I took a while, but the long awaited is here at last! WARNING: This chapter is not for the weak of heart!
~*^*^*~ = Change in scenery completely
~*~*~ = Change in perspectives
~Saturn's Tears: To Hell and Back~
Written by,
Luna Dragon
Chapter 2: Sacrifice for the Apocalyptic Earth
/ / "Trust in my self-righteous suicide.
I cry when angels deserve to die . . . ."
~System of a Down: Chop Suey! \ \
Over the green, brown and blue planet surrounded by lush white clouds, the moon was shining dangerously serene. Filled with whiteness and once the holder of the peaceful Lunarian race, the moon was seemingly oblivious as it rotated around the Earth. Yet, what little inhabitants were left on the large planet were unaware of the comforting radiance the moon was giving them. A comforting radiance of light, which was not there previously, for neither, was the Moon. And, neither was the lone figure incased in a white dress and beautiful rosy colored, feathered wings. With long, pink hair that brushed the floor with its shimmering length, bright red eyes, full lips and a yellow crescent moon on her forehead, she stared down upon the Earth; a saddened expression on her once tranquil face.
"Let me help you . . . Hotaru," The teenaged angel whispered, taking a step forward, then another, and another. As she walked across the hard surface of the moon barefoot, white mist rose from the ground behind her, following her footfalls. "You cannot do this single-handedly . . . ." The whiteness of the mist swirled, mixing with pinks and purples, until the mist transformed into a pair of light incased figures. They took a step forward, and the light surrounding them shattered, mixing in with the white mist that covered wherever the angel once stood. Both teenage species knelt before the angel as she stopped where she could view the Earth, full and darkened incredulously.
"But neither can you, Chibi Usa," One of the kneeling followers spoke. He brought his head up and golden eyes blared with determination; giant white wings unfolded themselves, showing off their great beauty. A yellow horn twinkled as it was exposed to the brightness of the angel in front of him, his white hair just a shimmer in the mist. "Which is why, I, Helios, have come to help you." He stood his usual white and blue clothes visible as the mist covered only his ankles.
The second figure stayed on his knees; rainbow colored fairy wings moving slightly as he raised his head. Grayish-teal eyes hardened with declaration and fortitude as his white hair moved in the mist-filled breeze. "I, Peruru, have come to help you as well." Standing as well, his white and aqua clothes revealed themselves over the mist and glimmering rainbow wings moving once again as he stretched them slightly. "Let us protect you once more, Chibi Usa. We failed you the last time, but we will not this time."
The teenage Chibi Usa, not little anymore, turned her head slightly to the side, staring at them with warm red eyes, much like her mother's. Her face still saddened, she turned her head back to the Earth she had once helped protect, the Earth she had once lived in, the Earth that was destroyed . . . and reborn anew, only to have chaos and disaster once again region over it. They had all failed to protect it, all but Hotaru, who, once again, was left in solitude. A solitude that was broken when she met one male much like her own self, lost and alone in so many ways. The one male that had ceased her endless wandering and fed her more love than any and all of her long deceased friends could provide her with. The one male that completed and filled her very soul, obliterating her heartache. The one male that was taken away from her by her father, the Devil himself.
Yes, Chibi Usa knew very well that she couldn't do this alone. How was she, a mere former Senshi and now an angel, demised for only a small amount years, supposed to go and help Hotaru fight her father? And she knew well and doubt, that Hotaru wouldn't be able do much by herself. Because she was the Devil's daughter, no matter how powerful she was, the monstrosities in Hell were immune to her dark powers. But not to the powers of justice, love, and light, as Chibi Usa possessed those. The only obstacles that would be in her way, were Lucifer's minions . . . . She closed her eyes tightly at the memory as she swung around; facing her friends . . . also demised. Was she strong enough to let them help her? Due to their virtuous powers, and the fact that already they were dead, if Lucifer . . . or his henchman caught them . . . there was no way to get them back. They would be lost forever, damned to eternal suffering, pain and sorrow. Was she strong enough to risk it? For her safety? For Hotaru's? For Mirai Trunks's? But what of them? It was obvious they were willing. Determination was set in their grayish and golden eyes, loyalty, hope, love. But what of them?
What of them indeed . . . . Besides willing, they were strong enough to help. Peruru and his glass flute. It was once Chibi Usa's, as he had offered it as a gift before he left. Now, it was safely back in his hands, ready to assist as he had planned on offering his services yet again to aid her. Was she willing to put to chance on sacrificing a life and soul so pure to the depths so hateful? Chibi Usa directed her gaze to Helios, the human form of the white winged, yellow horned Pegasus, former protector of dreams. He had a golden sword sheathed at his side, his righteous weapon of choice. And once again, after helping for so long, he was willing to do it again. Was she willing to risk also his life and soul so bright to the depths so dark? Was she willing to extinguish such beauty in them both?
Sighing, Chibi Usa lowered her arms that had been crossed across her chest as she thought, her wings sagged lowly, rosy feathered tips brushing against the cold surface of the once beauty filled moon. Out of the corner of her eyes, she could see the once beautiful Earth turning into Hell's destructive play toy. That was when she knew her answer. She wasn't her mother -- she would help others at the risk of others, no matter how painful it would be if the inevitable happened. Earth would not be used for evil anymore. She would stop Hotaru's father from overtaking Earth, and Hotaru would have to stop her father herself. Both Hotaru and Chibi-Usa knew the consequences, and both were willing to take them. "Very well," she spoke to Helios and Peruru, who seemed relieved by the answer. "We must leave now, however." Turning toward the Earth, she jumped from the moon, the gravity that was not there propelling her upward. A transparent sphere wrapped around her as she drew closer to Earth at an unbelievably fast pace, almost impossible to comprehend. Peruru and Helios were right behind her when they landed, no more than five minutes later.
All were left gaping, angry and incredibly saddened at the Earth around them. What was once the most popular and most populated city after the androids were destroyed laid in ruins once again. Houses, buildings, and the like were nothing but flattened rubble, pieces of dust and concrete and wood. People ran around screaming hysterically as the sewers erupted with molten rock and lava, spraying some unlucky citizens and burning them to the ground slowly and painfully. The ground stayed all but still, constantly engulfing bystanders and almost laughing as they cried out for mercy when lava washed over and silenced their worthless pleas. Thunder rolled in the distance as angry downpours came without kindness. Lighting came in a giant spectacle of electric blue light without compassion. Heavy winds uprooted what little life remained on this planet. Tornados dominated the lands and destroyed what could not be reached by massive, unforgivable waves, tsunamis, and the like, which destroyed coastlines angrily and without pity.
The Earth was in turmoil, but that was not all. Ghostly Phantoms, bloody Demons, Beasts -- all of the Devil's minions enjoyed torturing unfortunate victims. Some ripped them to shreds agonizing small piece after piece, not enough for them to die yet, but enough to feel the pain of their life slipping away as their blood rolled on the floor and as their soul wished it could leave with their anguished screams. Others worked like deadly viruses, their mist-like body seeping into the people's bodies and destroying them from the inside slowly; eating away their lungs, their intestines, and their bones. They could do nothing but scream and pray for a death that seemed forbidden, yet instead getting slow and painful torture. Other Demons and the like grabbed what they considered 'fresh meat,' and suck them dry of blood, engulfing their soul and making themselves stronger. Beasts roamed around or flew, chasing humans away and blasting them with fire that ejected from their chest, where they would have had a heart if they could ever attain one. Blood and corpse stained the street and the smell of death was fresh in the air.
It was the Apocalypse itself all over again.
Anger, hatred, sympathy, pity, love, turmoil. All of these clouded Chibi-Usa's mind as she screamed, tears running down her face at the destruction before her. Only a few, unoccupied demons even turned to look at her, and when they did, their eyes burned with hatred. Immediately they advanced as Chibi Usa drew a long pink staff with a heart at the top of it, radiating with her Ginzuishou. "I am Usagi Small Lady Serenity, Chibi Usa, and I will not let you condemn this Earth to Hell!" She spun her staff around, anger clearly dissipating as she began to perform her attack. "Heaven's Heart Ache!" She shouted, her wings enveloping her. Giant and shimmering light burst from under the wings as Chibi Usa brought her staff out -- pointing directly at her pursuers. The Beasts that had charged at the demised Princess instantly regretted it as pink, red, gold, silver, and white hearts both big and small charged at them. However, before they hit, they exploded, turning into ribbons made completely of hearts filled with love and justice. The ribbons wrapped themselves around the three Beasts that hadn't managed to dodge and burned their skin at the slightest touch. The green, wart-filled Beasts exploded in a dark wind as the ribbons disappeared in rainbow colored tears, healing whatever purity touched, killing whatever evil got in their way.
The fight had only just begun for the three heroes that so bravely and foolishly challenged the minions of Hell.
~*~*~
Behind her, Helios and Peruru had already jumped into action. Helios used his golden sword and cut through any evil that stood in his way, turning them to nothing but smoke and ashes as their spirits left this world and went back to where they belonged, unable to return. His horn was glowing immensely with golden light that threatened any of the Phantoms from coming close enough to rapture his insides with their torturous virus.
But, all of his efforts were futile when one Phantom managed to do what his horn tried to stop. This Phantom was blacker and darker than the shade itself, spinning wildly and laughing around Helios, his horn light barely burning holes into its body -- if it could even be called a body. It had no perceptible mouth, yet insane laughter could be heard coming directly from an invisible throat. Its eyes were crimson, blood red -- sickeningly shining with enjoyment at all the blood shed around him. He had no arms, fingers, legs, or toes, yet more of a wavy form without substance; a Shadow with red eyes and nothing but. Flowing around Helios as the justice minded teenager followed with his golden eyes, the Phantom attacked with remarkable agility and breathtaking effects -- literally.
Helios didn't know what hit him as his sword fell to the floor next to his feet. But a pain was clear and nauseous in his throat, working its way down the insides of his body. He tried to scream in pain as he grabbed his throat, but only gasps of air came out as his golden eyes closed tightly. He fell to his knees and what seemed like dozens of monsters from Hell mounted on top of him, scratching, biting, burning, hurting, and beating him to what was like near death. Had he not been an Angel of Heaven and already dead, he would surely have died now.
But inside of him, inside of his soul, the one thing that the Phantom had no control over, burst forth as his bloody wings stretched themselves. The minions on top of him screamed, all trying to escape from the light, but to no affect as they melted into black and green ooze. Black and gold light divided his body into a battle of colors, but the golden light surrounded him, as his body seemed to melt away. Skin turned into fur, arms and legs turned into white furred legs with hooves. His face stretched and was covered in white fur, eyes moving to the sides of his face as his nose moved to the bottom, mouth with hard rock teeth underneath. Black smoke left his body and evaporated away.
He was no longer Helios. Now he was the white winged, golden horned Pegasus.
~*~*~
Peruru flew through the air swiftly, avoiding various Phantoms and Beasts, his flute clutched in his hands. He couldn't understand why these monsters were even here. He had wanted to help -- and he still did -- but there had to be a specific reason for them attacking the Earth with such a strong army. But, if he could find what he was looking for . . . .
Out of a rare building that was left standing, a giant, growling dog-like creature howled. It had a long, black body, darker than the night itself. As the threatening sound swished from his throat, long, razor sharp teeth were visible. It lowered it's head an body menacingly, showing off its rippling black fur and red eyes that shined in anger for some fool who dared to migrate through its territory. The creature howled a response once more, and more Dog-like beats joined him in his call from the ground.
Suddenly, the Dog jumped onto Peruru's back, biting at his neck as the fairy screamed in pain, falling to the ground because of the extra weight. He landed with a sickening crack, no longer able to feel his left arm. He screamed again as more of those same Dogs jumped on top of him, ripping and nipping painfully at his skin. Already he could feel the blood running down his back, his legs, his face, neck, and arms. He screamed, trying to wriggle his way away from their lockjaw grip, only ripping his skin worse in the process.
Clutching his flute with his arm under his body, he kept that away from the flesh eating monsters. He still needed to play it to get help. Keeping the flute under his shirt and stomach, he quickly grabbed the leg of one of the Dogs and threw it away from him. The Dog landed no more than a few feet away before he tried to get back on. However, Peruru was prepared for that. Grabbing another Dog by the tail, he painfully ripped it away from him, feeling a chunk of skin leaving his body. Already weakened by his lose of blood, Peruru used the last of his strength and threw the Dog in front of his face. The first one had just jumped for Peruru but landed on top of the other, and in seconds the two were fighting in anger. The others growled at one another, and Peruru took this chance to shift his weight to another side. Two Dogs that had aimed for his neck found it gone and they rammed into each other, teeth bared. Another fight between them started, and it didn't take long before the Dogs were all fighting one another, instead of eating him.
Quickly, or as quick as Peruru could go, he got up. Pain shot up his back and sides as his blood lay in a large pool on the floor. Dizziness overcame Peruru, but he took into the air, his rainbow colored wings shredded close to nothing. But the fairy continued to fly slowly, his left arm limply hanging, a bone protruding through where his elbow once was located. His blood fell to the ground from the sky, just tempting other Demons to follow; Peruru panted as he flew faster. One more attack and he would not survive it.
~*~*~
She fell to her knees, panting heavily. A white barrier surrounded her as she held her staff in the air, the Ginzuishou's light stopping any of the monsters injudicious enough to come near it. Once they touched it, they were obliterated into nothing but dust, smoke, or ashes. However, holding the light barrier took more than enough energy from Chibi Usa's already drained body. They had fought for what seemed like days, when in reality, it was barely over three hours. Her bones felt like they were going to turn to dust at any given moment, and her dissipating energy did nothing to help.
Suddenly a pain shot through her and Chibi Usa whimpered, suppressing a scream when claws erupted from the ground and scratched at her angrily. Her barrier gave way as her Ginzuishou was thrown backwards, away from her grasp. She beat her wings wildly as she tried to get away from the Beast that had dug his claws deep into her skin, through her tissue and muscle. Already Chibi Usa could see her attacker and if she weren't in such pain, she would have had to fight the urge to retch at its appearance.
His skin was a dark green, giant warts and the like blotched his skin as he tore through the Earth, the concrete splitting at his immense weight. His short, pudgy, green legs were just as the rest of his skin, and long claws overhung from his feet. The razor sharp claws that were dug into Chibi Usa's back were long and black, sucking her life force away from her; eating her very soul. It was then Chibi Usa cried for death, cursing the fact that she no longer could die. She was an angel, demised already, after all.
With brown, chipped teeth and black eyes, the Beast sneered at Chibi Usa and dared any other to come claim his 'prize.' Phantoms, deranged Dogs, other Beasts, dark breed Minions -- all of these and more stared at the Beast that was eating away Chibi Usa's soul to please their master, the Devil himself. Most dared not to come even a step near, but those narrow-minded fools that did, were met with a fate worse than what they had now. The Beast opened his mouth, and those within a large radius were turned to spheres of blackness, swallowed by the Beast which attained their soul, and their power. So the monsters just stayed back, holding their ground, and watched in amusement as Chibi Usa's soul was being slowly and painfully being stolen from her.
'Is it wrong . . . to ask for your forgiveness, Mother? Once again I have . . . failed you.' The angel thought, red eyes closing as her body limply sunk into the Beasts grasp.
~*~*~
Pegasus galloped at a Phantom in front of him, his horn a glowing radiance of light as he slammed into it. The Phantom dissipated into nothing and a shrill escaped its invisible throat before it was once more sentenced to Hell. They had fought long and hard; himself, Peruru, and Chibi Usa. But their effects were proving futile as two more minions took the place of the one that was sent away.
The white horse that once guarded Dreams turned his head with a neigh; golden eyes narrowing at the sight they met. 'Chibi Usa!' He thought drastically, striding toward the Angel and the Beast that held her. But as he got closer to the pink-haired demised Princess, wings flapping to gain speed, a black bolt of lightning struck at him. Narrowly he avoided it, but his speed was no match as three more headed his way.
Suddenly, his horn began to glow and a golden barrier surrounded him. Lowering his head and wings to gain more speed, Pegasus neighed angrily, slamming into the side of the Beast. The green monster screamed, tearing away his claws from inside Chibi Usa, and charged at the white-winged horse. Slashing desperately, anger feeding his moves, the large Beast fought the retreating Pegasus.
The protector of dreams lifted his front legs, squared, white teeth showing as he neighed. Bringing his legs down forcefully, his horn glowing with golden light, Pegasus trampled the furious Beast, ultimately sending it back to Hell when the golden light penetrated through its rock hard skin. Wasting no time, Pegasus did a full one-eighty turn, galloping toward Chibi Usa's limp body.
~*~*~
Landing onto the hard floor with half-shredded fairy wings, Peruru collapsed on his knees with a series of gasps, his eyes shutting tightly as he tried to block out the pain. He had made it--barely surviving--and now his plan was almost complete. Shakily climbing to his knees, Peruru held his broken arm with a grimace, walking slowly toward the Radio Tower, leaving a trail of crimson red blood behind him.
He was not alone, however. A pair of blood red eyes watched Peruru from the shadows; being attentive to his every move, his every breath, gasp, and grimace. Slowly, silently, a form revealed itself to what little light was left. Its body was that of a lizard; long and stubby and stout. Its coloring was a midnight red; helping it as it walked through the shadows. A long tail accompanied its body, and at the very tip of it, was a bulky sphere of needles, each a different and deadly poison that could kill, even at the slightest touch. Almost smirking with short but sharp fangs, if this Lizard from Hell could, he followed Peruru up to the top of the Radio Tower.
He would not be so foolish as to let any of the three Angels get to Hell. He would please his master….
Peruru took a seat in front of the system that used to broadcast radio waves all over this city. He had had to walk up only a few flights of stairs, and now he was panting as if he had ran a fifty-mile marathon. But he couldn't let this stop him now; not just the whole city, the whole world was at stake this time. His face pale and full of pain, Peruru set to work on his task. If he could just manage to change around the programming, he might just be able to cause the Radio Tower to emit sound waves instead of radio waves. If he could do that, the rest of his plan would be simple….
Abruptly, Peruru tensed. He could hear the thing before he saw it. Someone or something (you could never be too sure when dealing with Lucifer) was in the room with him. Clutching his broken arm, he realized he was in no condition to fight back…. The hairs on his neck stood straight up when a low growl reached his ears. 'Not again,' The elf/fairy thought, biting his lower lip to keep out a groan.
Slowly he turned around and saw the Lizard, its blood red eyes and midnight red skin intimidating him with the power he possessed. Before either could say a word, however, the glass that showed the view of the city shattered, sending glass everywhere. A flash of white crossed Peruru's vision, and he shielded his eyes from the bright light.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
End of Chapter
Author's Note: I know this chapter had no Hotaru in it, but this part is basically needed. Very angst-y in my opinion, but I hope you liked it. Thanks to everyone who reviewed. The next chapter should be out soon. Umm....oh yeah....Firefly the Dancing Author and her faithful muse Peruru.....heh....Sorry for the things I put you through Peruru, but I had to do it.
That's about it. Um....oh right! ^-^ Please review!
P.S: I'm sorry this took so long! I would have had it up sooner but my internet crashed, and then I got it working, only to find out fanfiction.net was BROKEN! *sigh*
Oh, right, please read the very important note that will be posted as soon as this chapter is.
Author's Note: I'm sorry I took a while, but the long awaited is here at last! WARNING: This chapter is not for the weak of heart!
~*^*^*~ = Change in scenery completely
~*~*~ = Change in perspectives
~Saturn's Tears: To Hell and Back~
Written by,
Luna Dragon
Chapter 2: Sacrifice for the Apocalyptic Earth
/ / "Trust in my self-righteous suicide.
I cry when angels deserve to die . . . ."
~System of a Down: Chop Suey! \ \
Over the green, brown and blue planet surrounded by lush white clouds, the moon was shining dangerously serene. Filled with whiteness and once the holder of the peaceful Lunarian race, the moon was seemingly oblivious as it rotated around the Earth. Yet, what little inhabitants were left on the large planet were unaware of the comforting radiance the moon was giving them. A comforting radiance of light, which was not there previously, for neither, was the Moon. And, neither was the lone figure incased in a white dress and beautiful rosy colored, feathered wings. With long, pink hair that brushed the floor with its shimmering length, bright red eyes, full lips and a yellow crescent moon on her forehead, she stared down upon the Earth; a saddened expression on her once tranquil face.
"Let me help you . . . Hotaru," The teenaged angel whispered, taking a step forward, then another, and another. As she walked across the hard surface of the moon barefoot, white mist rose from the ground behind her, following her footfalls. "You cannot do this single-handedly . . . ." The whiteness of the mist swirled, mixing with pinks and purples, until the mist transformed into a pair of light incased figures. They took a step forward, and the light surrounding them shattered, mixing in with the white mist that covered wherever the angel once stood. Both teenage species knelt before the angel as she stopped where she could view the Earth, full and darkened incredulously.
"But neither can you, Chibi Usa," One of the kneeling followers spoke. He brought his head up and golden eyes blared with determination; giant white wings unfolded themselves, showing off their great beauty. A yellow horn twinkled as it was exposed to the brightness of the angel in front of him, his white hair just a shimmer in the mist. "Which is why, I, Helios, have come to help you." He stood his usual white and blue clothes visible as the mist covered only his ankles.
The second figure stayed on his knees; rainbow colored fairy wings moving slightly as he raised his head. Grayish-teal eyes hardened with declaration and fortitude as his white hair moved in the mist-filled breeze. "I, Peruru, have come to help you as well." Standing as well, his white and aqua clothes revealed themselves over the mist and glimmering rainbow wings moving once again as he stretched them slightly. "Let us protect you once more, Chibi Usa. We failed you the last time, but we will not this time."
The teenage Chibi Usa, not little anymore, turned her head slightly to the side, staring at them with warm red eyes, much like her mother's. Her face still saddened, she turned her head back to the Earth she had once helped protect, the Earth she had once lived in, the Earth that was destroyed . . . and reborn anew, only to have chaos and disaster once again region over it. They had all failed to protect it, all but Hotaru, who, once again, was left in solitude. A solitude that was broken when she met one male much like her own self, lost and alone in so many ways. The one male that had ceased her endless wandering and fed her more love than any and all of her long deceased friends could provide her with. The one male that completed and filled her very soul, obliterating her heartache. The one male that was taken away from her by her father, the Devil himself.
Yes, Chibi Usa knew very well that she couldn't do this alone. How was she, a mere former Senshi and now an angel, demised for only a small amount years, supposed to go and help Hotaru fight her father? And she knew well and doubt, that Hotaru wouldn't be able do much by herself. Because she was the Devil's daughter, no matter how powerful she was, the monstrosities in Hell were immune to her dark powers. But not to the powers of justice, love, and light, as Chibi Usa possessed those. The only obstacles that would be in her way, were Lucifer's minions . . . . She closed her eyes tightly at the memory as she swung around; facing her friends . . . also demised. Was she strong enough to let them help her? Due to their virtuous powers, and the fact that already they were dead, if Lucifer . . . or his henchman caught them . . . there was no way to get them back. They would be lost forever, damned to eternal suffering, pain and sorrow. Was she strong enough to risk it? For her safety? For Hotaru's? For Mirai Trunks's? But what of them? It was obvious they were willing. Determination was set in their grayish and golden eyes, loyalty, hope, love. But what of them?
What of them indeed . . . . Besides willing, they were strong enough to help. Peruru and his glass flute. It was once Chibi Usa's, as he had offered it as a gift before he left. Now, it was safely back in his hands, ready to assist as he had planned on offering his services yet again to aid her. Was she willing to put to chance on sacrificing a life and soul so pure to the depths so hateful? Chibi Usa directed her gaze to Helios, the human form of the white winged, yellow horned Pegasus, former protector of dreams. He had a golden sword sheathed at his side, his righteous weapon of choice. And once again, after helping for so long, he was willing to do it again. Was she willing to risk also his life and soul so bright to the depths so dark? Was she willing to extinguish such beauty in them both?
Sighing, Chibi Usa lowered her arms that had been crossed across her chest as she thought, her wings sagged lowly, rosy feathered tips brushing against the cold surface of the once beauty filled moon. Out of the corner of her eyes, she could see the once beautiful Earth turning into Hell's destructive play toy. That was when she knew her answer. She wasn't her mother -- she would help others at the risk of others, no matter how painful it would be if the inevitable happened. Earth would not be used for evil anymore. She would stop Hotaru's father from overtaking Earth, and Hotaru would have to stop her father herself. Both Hotaru and Chibi-Usa knew the consequences, and both were willing to take them. "Very well," she spoke to Helios and Peruru, who seemed relieved by the answer. "We must leave now, however." Turning toward the Earth, she jumped from the moon, the gravity that was not there propelling her upward. A transparent sphere wrapped around her as she drew closer to Earth at an unbelievably fast pace, almost impossible to comprehend. Peruru and Helios were right behind her when they landed, no more than five minutes later.
All were left gaping, angry and incredibly saddened at the Earth around them. What was once the most popular and most populated city after the androids were destroyed laid in ruins once again. Houses, buildings, and the like were nothing but flattened rubble, pieces of dust and concrete and wood. People ran around screaming hysterically as the sewers erupted with molten rock and lava, spraying some unlucky citizens and burning them to the ground slowly and painfully. The ground stayed all but still, constantly engulfing bystanders and almost laughing as they cried out for mercy when lava washed over and silenced their worthless pleas. Thunder rolled in the distance as angry downpours came without kindness. Lighting came in a giant spectacle of electric blue light without compassion. Heavy winds uprooted what little life remained on this planet. Tornados dominated the lands and destroyed what could not be reached by massive, unforgivable waves, tsunamis, and the like, which destroyed coastlines angrily and without pity.
The Earth was in turmoil, but that was not all. Ghostly Phantoms, bloody Demons, Beasts -- all of the Devil's minions enjoyed torturing unfortunate victims. Some ripped them to shreds agonizing small piece after piece, not enough for them to die yet, but enough to feel the pain of their life slipping away as their blood rolled on the floor and as their soul wished it could leave with their anguished screams. Others worked like deadly viruses, their mist-like body seeping into the people's bodies and destroying them from the inside slowly; eating away their lungs, their intestines, and their bones. They could do nothing but scream and pray for a death that seemed forbidden, yet instead getting slow and painful torture. Other Demons and the like grabbed what they considered 'fresh meat,' and suck them dry of blood, engulfing their soul and making themselves stronger. Beasts roamed around or flew, chasing humans away and blasting them with fire that ejected from their chest, where they would have had a heart if they could ever attain one. Blood and corpse stained the street and the smell of death was fresh in the air.
It was the Apocalypse itself all over again.
Anger, hatred, sympathy, pity, love, turmoil. All of these clouded Chibi-Usa's mind as she screamed, tears running down her face at the destruction before her. Only a few, unoccupied demons even turned to look at her, and when they did, their eyes burned with hatred. Immediately they advanced as Chibi Usa drew a long pink staff with a heart at the top of it, radiating with her Ginzuishou. "I am Usagi Small Lady Serenity, Chibi Usa, and I will not let you condemn this Earth to Hell!" She spun her staff around, anger clearly dissipating as she began to perform her attack. "Heaven's Heart Ache!" She shouted, her wings enveloping her. Giant and shimmering light burst from under the wings as Chibi Usa brought her staff out -- pointing directly at her pursuers. The Beasts that had charged at the demised Princess instantly regretted it as pink, red, gold, silver, and white hearts both big and small charged at them. However, before they hit, they exploded, turning into ribbons made completely of hearts filled with love and justice. The ribbons wrapped themselves around the three Beasts that hadn't managed to dodge and burned their skin at the slightest touch. The green, wart-filled Beasts exploded in a dark wind as the ribbons disappeared in rainbow colored tears, healing whatever purity touched, killing whatever evil got in their way.
The fight had only just begun for the three heroes that so bravely and foolishly challenged the minions of Hell.
~*~*~
Behind her, Helios and Peruru had already jumped into action. Helios used his golden sword and cut through any evil that stood in his way, turning them to nothing but smoke and ashes as their spirits left this world and went back to where they belonged, unable to return. His horn was glowing immensely with golden light that threatened any of the Phantoms from coming close enough to rapture his insides with their torturous virus.
But, all of his efforts were futile when one Phantom managed to do what his horn tried to stop. This Phantom was blacker and darker than the shade itself, spinning wildly and laughing around Helios, his horn light barely burning holes into its body -- if it could even be called a body. It had no perceptible mouth, yet insane laughter could be heard coming directly from an invisible throat. Its eyes were crimson, blood red -- sickeningly shining with enjoyment at all the blood shed around him. He had no arms, fingers, legs, or toes, yet more of a wavy form without substance; a Shadow with red eyes and nothing but. Flowing around Helios as the justice minded teenager followed with his golden eyes, the Phantom attacked with remarkable agility and breathtaking effects -- literally.
Helios didn't know what hit him as his sword fell to the floor next to his feet. But a pain was clear and nauseous in his throat, working its way down the insides of his body. He tried to scream in pain as he grabbed his throat, but only gasps of air came out as his golden eyes closed tightly. He fell to his knees and what seemed like dozens of monsters from Hell mounted on top of him, scratching, biting, burning, hurting, and beating him to what was like near death. Had he not been an Angel of Heaven and already dead, he would surely have died now.
But inside of him, inside of his soul, the one thing that the Phantom had no control over, burst forth as his bloody wings stretched themselves. The minions on top of him screamed, all trying to escape from the light, but to no affect as they melted into black and green ooze. Black and gold light divided his body into a battle of colors, but the golden light surrounded him, as his body seemed to melt away. Skin turned into fur, arms and legs turned into white furred legs with hooves. His face stretched and was covered in white fur, eyes moving to the sides of his face as his nose moved to the bottom, mouth with hard rock teeth underneath. Black smoke left his body and evaporated away.
He was no longer Helios. Now he was the white winged, golden horned Pegasus.
~*~*~
Peruru flew through the air swiftly, avoiding various Phantoms and Beasts, his flute clutched in his hands. He couldn't understand why these monsters were even here. He had wanted to help -- and he still did -- but there had to be a specific reason for them attacking the Earth with such a strong army. But, if he could find what he was looking for . . . .
Out of a rare building that was left standing, a giant, growling dog-like creature howled. It had a long, black body, darker than the night itself. As the threatening sound swished from his throat, long, razor sharp teeth were visible. It lowered it's head an body menacingly, showing off its rippling black fur and red eyes that shined in anger for some fool who dared to migrate through its territory. The creature howled a response once more, and more Dog-like beats joined him in his call from the ground.
Suddenly, the Dog jumped onto Peruru's back, biting at his neck as the fairy screamed in pain, falling to the ground because of the extra weight. He landed with a sickening crack, no longer able to feel his left arm. He screamed again as more of those same Dogs jumped on top of him, ripping and nipping painfully at his skin. Already he could feel the blood running down his back, his legs, his face, neck, and arms. He screamed, trying to wriggle his way away from their lockjaw grip, only ripping his skin worse in the process.
Clutching his flute with his arm under his body, he kept that away from the flesh eating monsters. He still needed to play it to get help. Keeping the flute under his shirt and stomach, he quickly grabbed the leg of one of the Dogs and threw it away from him. The Dog landed no more than a few feet away before he tried to get back on. However, Peruru was prepared for that. Grabbing another Dog by the tail, he painfully ripped it away from him, feeling a chunk of skin leaving his body. Already weakened by his lose of blood, Peruru used the last of his strength and threw the Dog in front of his face. The first one had just jumped for Peruru but landed on top of the other, and in seconds the two were fighting in anger. The others growled at one another, and Peruru took this chance to shift his weight to another side. Two Dogs that had aimed for his neck found it gone and they rammed into each other, teeth bared. Another fight between them started, and it didn't take long before the Dogs were all fighting one another, instead of eating him.
Quickly, or as quick as Peruru could go, he got up. Pain shot up his back and sides as his blood lay in a large pool on the floor. Dizziness overcame Peruru, but he took into the air, his rainbow colored wings shredded close to nothing. But the fairy continued to fly slowly, his left arm limply hanging, a bone protruding through where his elbow once was located. His blood fell to the ground from the sky, just tempting other Demons to follow; Peruru panted as he flew faster. One more attack and he would not survive it.
~*~*~
She fell to her knees, panting heavily. A white barrier surrounded her as she held her staff in the air, the Ginzuishou's light stopping any of the monsters injudicious enough to come near it. Once they touched it, they were obliterated into nothing but dust, smoke, or ashes. However, holding the light barrier took more than enough energy from Chibi Usa's already drained body. They had fought for what seemed like days, when in reality, it was barely over three hours. Her bones felt like they were going to turn to dust at any given moment, and her dissipating energy did nothing to help.
Suddenly a pain shot through her and Chibi Usa whimpered, suppressing a scream when claws erupted from the ground and scratched at her angrily. Her barrier gave way as her Ginzuishou was thrown backwards, away from her grasp. She beat her wings wildly as she tried to get away from the Beast that had dug his claws deep into her skin, through her tissue and muscle. Already Chibi Usa could see her attacker and if she weren't in such pain, she would have had to fight the urge to retch at its appearance.
His skin was a dark green, giant warts and the like blotched his skin as he tore through the Earth, the concrete splitting at his immense weight. His short, pudgy, green legs were just as the rest of his skin, and long claws overhung from his feet. The razor sharp claws that were dug into Chibi Usa's back were long and black, sucking her life force away from her; eating her very soul. It was then Chibi Usa cried for death, cursing the fact that she no longer could die. She was an angel, demised already, after all.
With brown, chipped teeth and black eyes, the Beast sneered at Chibi Usa and dared any other to come claim his 'prize.' Phantoms, deranged Dogs, other Beasts, dark breed Minions -- all of these and more stared at the Beast that was eating away Chibi Usa's soul to please their master, the Devil himself. Most dared not to come even a step near, but those narrow-minded fools that did, were met with a fate worse than what they had now. The Beast opened his mouth, and those within a large radius were turned to spheres of blackness, swallowed by the Beast which attained their soul, and their power. So the monsters just stayed back, holding their ground, and watched in amusement as Chibi Usa's soul was being slowly and painfully being stolen from her.
'Is it wrong . . . to ask for your forgiveness, Mother? Once again I have . . . failed you.' The angel thought, red eyes closing as her body limply sunk into the Beasts grasp.
~*~*~
Pegasus galloped at a Phantom in front of him, his horn a glowing radiance of light as he slammed into it. The Phantom dissipated into nothing and a shrill escaped its invisible throat before it was once more sentenced to Hell. They had fought long and hard; himself, Peruru, and Chibi Usa. But their effects were proving futile as two more minions took the place of the one that was sent away.
The white horse that once guarded Dreams turned his head with a neigh; golden eyes narrowing at the sight they met. 'Chibi Usa!' He thought drastically, striding toward the Angel and the Beast that held her. But as he got closer to the pink-haired demised Princess, wings flapping to gain speed, a black bolt of lightning struck at him. Narrowly he avoided it, but his speed was no match as three more headed his way.
Suddenly, his horn began to glow and a golden barrier surrounded him. Lowering his head and wings to gain more speed, Pegasus neighed angrily, slamming into the side of the Beast. The green monster screamed, tearing away his claws from inside Chibi Usa, and charged at the white-winged horse. Slashing desperately, anger feeding his moves, the large Beast fought the retreating Pegasus.
The protector of dreams lifted his front legs, squared, white teeth showing as he neighed. Bringing his legs down forcefully, his horn glowing with golden light, Pegasus trampled the furious Beast, ultimately sending it back to Hell when the golden light penetrated through its rock hard skin. Wasting no time, Pegasus did a full one-eighty turn, galloping toward Chibi Usa's limp body.
~*~*~
Landing onto the hard floor with half-shredded fairy wings, Peruru collapsed on his knees with a series of gasps, his eyes shutting tightly as he tried to block out the pain. He had made it--barely surviving--and now his plan was almost complete. Shakily climbing to his knees, Peruru held his broken arm with a grimace, walking slowly toward the Radio Tower, leaving a trail of crimson red blood behind him.
He was not alone, however. A pair of blood red eyes watched Peruru from the shadows; being attentive to his every move, his every breath, gasp, and grimace. Slowly, silently, a form revealed itself to what little light was left. Its body was that of a lizard; long and stubby and stout. Its coloring was a midnight red; helping it as it walked through the shadows. A long tail accompanied its body, and at the very tip of it, was a bulky sphere of needles, each a different and deadly poison that could kill, even at the slightest touch. Almost smirking with short but sharp fangs, if this Lizard from Hell could, he followed Peruru up to the top of the Radio Tower.
He would not be so foolish as to let any of the three Angels get to Hell. He would please his master….
Peruru took a seat in front of the system that used to broadcast radio waves all over this city. He had had to walk up only a few flights of stairs, and now he was panting as if he had ran a fifty-mile marathon. But he couldn't let this stop him now; not just the whole city, the whole world was at stake this time. His face pale and full of pain, Peruru set to work on his task. If he could just manage to change around the programming, he might just be able to cause the Radio Tower to emit sound waves instead of radio waves. If he could do that, the rest of his plan would be simple….
Abruptly, Peruru tensed. He could hear the thing before he saw it. Someone or something (you could never be too sure when dealing with Lucifer) was in the room with him. Clutching his broken arm, he realized he was in no condition to fight back…. The hairs on his neck stood straight up when a low growl reached his ears. 'Not again,' The elf/fairy thought, biting his lower lip to keep out a groan.
Slowly he turned around and saw the Lizard, its blood red eyes and midnight red skin intimidating him with the power he possessed. Before either could say a word, however, the glass that showed the view of the city shattered, sending glass everywhere. A flash of white crossed Peruru's vision, and he shielded his eyes from the bright light.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
End of Chapter
Author's Note: I know this chapter had no Hotaru in it, but this part is basically needed. Very angst-y in my opinion, but I hope you liked it. Thanks to everyone who reviewed. The next chapter should be out soon. Umm....oh yeah....Firefly the Dancing Author and her faithful muse Peruru.....heh....Sorry for the things I put you through Peruru, but I had to do it.
That's about it. Um....oh right! ^-^ Please review!
P.S: I'm sorry this took so long! I would have had it up sooner but my internet crashed, and then I got it working, only to find out fanfiction.net was BROKEN! *sigh*
Oh, right, please read the very important note that will be posted as soon as this chapter is.