Chapter 16 - SMG
* * * * *
Lord Agate sat and pondered the recent events, good and bad. He had created the Sage long ago after discovering that by mixing some magically enchanted trace metals with gold made it, as he called it, more sensitive to the winds of fate. He made the Sage of that metal mixture, and spent long hours forging the magic to animate the golem, and make her able to think and operate on her own, though still retaining her absolute loyalty. He was sure she was unbeatable but the senshi had stopped her attack on them, then destroyed her.
The senshi had someone assisting them however, Jadeite. Jadeite was now being a thorn in Lord Agate's side. Jadeite had been appearing on the other planets of the system, starting revolts against Lord Agate. Mars had already fallen to the rebels, and there were still threats on all other fronts.
Lord Agate smirked, thinking of Jadeite and how pointless Jadeite's efforts where. Lord Agate now had all the Shards. He had cast homing spells on the Dark Shards in case his subjects ever rebelled against him. He had not expected the senshi to get them. Fortunately they had foolishly left the Shards unguarded and he was able to active the spell without trouble. He now had both sets of Shards. All the Shards of the same type were connected at one end forming a five-point star.
He then gazed at the only other being in the room, who was positioned 20 feet away. The one flanked on both sides by the Shard Stars, their magic flowing through him. He was physically and magically bound by his arms and feet into position, and he was being used as focus for a gateway to the Plane of Shadow. Lord Agate thought for a moment if it was wise to use Shade like that but he shook his head. The Plane held a strange and powerful kind of energy that he was trying to harness. If he succeeded he would become the most powerful being in this dimension. It was worth the risks.
He chuckled to himself lightly. The senshi were now coming to get him, but he wasn't afraid. If he had not figured how to transform the power of the Plane of Shadows towards his own ends, he'd just use the Shard Stars to destroy them. Then he'd have plenty of time to undo all the harm they had done, thus making their sacrifice pointless. He found that very amusing and satisfying.
He didn't notice that the nexus surrounding Shade had black cracks forming from its corners.
* * * * *
"Um, what is going on?" asked Sailor Moon, gazing at the three shadows.
"This dimension is endangered as are others. We must strike at and remove the head from foolish beast, which runs towards its own and this dimension's destruction," replied Guardian from beneath the layers of metal she wore.
Sailor Mercury said, "I presume you meant Lord Agate. However I think Sailor Moon was probably referring to the, overload I think you called it."
Guide responded in her normal way, 'Each of us has a shadow crystal within us, though Host has two, and we draw our powers to work our magic and even exist. Though it is risky to us, we can overload them, drawing more power then usual, but it makes us more vulnerable to permanent destruction. In this case I believe it's necessary. However we can not keep this up for long, so we better go. Follow me.' With that Guide turned and ran towards one of the exits of the cavern the senshi were in.
The senshi glanced at each other and followed.
The group turned through different, caverns, and their changes in direction seemed random to most of them. They saw no one as they ran, and while Sailor Moon didn't notice, just happy to have no trouble, Guardian, Sailor Jupiter and Tuxedo Kamen noticed.
"I don't like this. We should have to fight for every inch here, especially after we destroyed the Sage. I wouldn't think Lord Agate would give us a chance," Sailor Jupiter pointed out.
Sailor Moon explained it away with, "Oh he's probably worrying about Jadeite and forgot about us. Now we can sneak in!"
"And what reality are you in?" asked Sailor Mars.
"Hey, you guys are just too worried for your own good," Sailor Moon replied.
Guardian made a, 'Be quiet,' gesture, as she moved strangely silently in the heavy plate armor. The others fell quiet and followed.
After a few minutes, they turned a corner and suddenly found themselves heading towards a huge cavern. In the middle of the cavern was some kind of strange and foreboding castle. Some kind of strange liquid surrounded the castle, and its drawbridge was up. "How are we supposed to get into that?" asked Sailor Venus.
Tuxedo Kamen pointed towards small window ledges near the drawbridge and suggested, "Seems to be more for looks then protection. We can jump up onto the window ledges, then the ledge above the drawbridge then over."
Sailor Moon smiled and nodded to Tuxedo Kamen then said, "Ok, let's do it!"
"Right!" replied the others.
The six senshi, cats and Tuxedo Kamen jumped from ledge to ledge, then over the castle wall. Guardian, Guide simply changed back to spheres, and along with guide, then flew over the wall to the other side.
As they landed, the senshi looked on in shock. The had found themselves in a courtyard filled with youmas staring back at them, and no easy way out.
Guardian was not intimidated as she changed back to her armored warrior form, this time wielding a mace. She told the senshi, "Follow us and conserve your power. You'll need it."
"But..*" started Sailor Venus as she looked around. She couldn't see how they'd be able to get through here without all of them using there powers, but she and the other senshi had to rush forward to keep with the shadows.
The youmas moved forward to meet Guardian, Guide and Host. Guardian bashed her way forward, slashing at any youmas in range, instantly cutting them apart. She began to cut a path through the mob of youmas.
One youma decided to not bother swinging but instead tackle Guardian, but Guide instantly stunned it with a psychic attack and then pounced on it knocking it out.
Youmas then began launching magical attacks on the group as the three shadows formed a protected wedge. Host intercepted these, their magic being captured by its ring and after the magical energy ran around its ring it was released after it was turned in direction to strike other youmas. As other youmas ran forward, Host captured them in its circling moons then launched them flying back at their fellow youmas.
As the senshi watched in awe the three shadows made their way forward, as Guardian bashed through the mass of youmas, opening them a path, while Guide and Host protected her back. The senshi followed along but except for the carefully placed rose of Tuxedo Kamen's the senshi had little trouble, as they made it to the other side of the courtyard and another set of double doors.
Guide and Host moved to the other side of the group to protect them. Guardian then moved forward and her mace began to glow brightly, turning back into a sword. She then took several, hard to see, lightning-quick slashes at the. After only a few moments she stopped and part of the door fell away, enough for the others to duck through as the shadow creations of Shade guarded away. The crystals within them began to pulse as they continued to try to maintain their power levels.
"Ok, we have to get through these halls then we'll reach the throne room. They are there," Guardian told them. She seemed to be a little less energetic, and the armor seemed to weigh a little heavier on her.
Sailor Moon replied, "Right. This time we are leading though. You are getting weak."
Guardian gave no reply but Guide simply said mentally, 'Right.'
Sailor Venus looked back through the ruined door and remarked in surprise, "You took so many out and I don't think you killed one of them. Oh well."
The group quickly moved down the hall. Occasionally they spotted a youma, but quickly dealt with them. After a time they reached the entry hall, which was guarded by a bunch of youmas. As the group approached, ready to fight their way to Lord Agate, a larger group of youmas came up from behind them, trapping them.
Tuxedo Kamen looked at both groups and said, "This can't be a good sign." Guardian just looked at him for a moment as her only response then turned her attention to the youmas coming from behind.
The senshi let loose their magical attacks on the youmas near the door making them back off. Sailor Chibi-Moon pointed and said, "Look, the door is open a little!"
Guide sent a mental message to the group, 'We'll watch your backs. Go through the door and close it. Then you'll only have Lord Agate left.'
Sailor Mercury shouted, "Shabon spray!" and covered the area in a thick fog.
As the youmas became disoriented, the cats and the senshi went through one by one until only Tuxedo Kamen remained, on the other side of the door but still looking towards where the shadows creations were. He shouted, "Come on, we are..*" but he we startled as the door closed on its own, pushing him into the room with the others.
The room Guardian, Guide and Host were in fell silent as the youmas backed off. The three moved to the door but found it not only physically, but magically blocked them. They moved away and then faded into the shadows of the room, leaving only youmas in it as the fog cleared.
* * * * *
A large boom echoed through the chamber as the door closed. Then silence.
The senshi looked around the room but one end was hidden in darkness. Tuxedo Kamen announced after trying the door, "There is no turning back."
"You are quite right, Tuxedo Kamen. Welcome, and prepare for your doom," came Lord Agate's voice from the dark area of the room. Golden lights lit up at the other end, and they lit up Lord Agate who sat on his throne, and held his dark crystal staff. To the side was a nexus, with Shade hanging in the middle. To either side of him were the two Shard Stars, their energy passing through them.
"Hey, you creep, let him go!" shouted Sailor Venus.
Sailor Moon pointed at him, "We are here to right wrong and to fight for justice. End your wicked ways now!"
Lord Agate looked at the glowing crystal on his staff, and he didn't even seem to pay attention. After a moment he turned to the senshi and asked, "Are you finished?"
Sailor Jupiter responded, "Just wait till we finish with you! You will never know what hit you."
Lord Agate stood up from his throne and said, "Oh yes, I'm sure," clearly unimpressed. He then told them, "Anyhow first some unfinished business." With that he tapped the end of his staff onto the ground. At the same moment, a magical bolt shot from his staff, one from his free hand and a third from his eyes, all headed towards Tuxedo Kamen.
Tuxedo Kamen tried to jump away, but the bolts homed into him. One by one they struck him sending him flying into the large doors. "Tuxedo Kamen!" screamed Sailor Moon and Sailor Chibi-Moon as they both ran to him.
Lord Agate proceeded to launch three more bolts. They dodged around Sailor Moon and Sailor Chibi-Moon to reach Tuxedo Kamen first, and they all struck him. Sailor Chibi-Moon turned to Lord Agate and cried, "You big jerk! Leave him alone!" As Sailor Moon reached Tuxedo Kamen. The other senshi formed a wall between Tuxedo Kamen and Lord Agate.
Lord Agate shook his head and said, "I was willing to let you live, in slavery, after I have slayed Queen Beryl's lover, but you foolishly get in the way."
Sailor Moon responded, "He never loved her, he was under mind control!"
Lord Agate shrugged, "She wanted him. That is enough reason to destroy him. Now I will destroy you all."
"We will defend those we care about no matter what you try!" shouted Sailor Moon as she took out her scepter.
"Whatever you say. First I'll deal with him," Lord Agate responded. He then removed his crown and threw it at Tuxedo Kamen much like Sailor Moon would throw her tiara. The crown sailed over the wall of senshi as Sailor Chibi-Moon tugged Tuxedo Kamen, and tried to pull him out of the way. Sailor Moon stood right in front of him, and jumped into the way of the crown. She was suddenly trapped within a large dark ring covered in thorns. "Foolish girl," Lord Agate said as he gestured and dark energy flowed around the ring.
Sailor Moon screamed in pain.
Lord Agate smirked while Sailor Mars shouted as she readied her flame, "Release her or eat fire!"
"No," replied Lord Agate, sending more energy through the ring.
The ring fell to the ground around Sailor Moon.
"What?" asked Lord Agate in surprise. He narrowed his eyes as he saw the severely injured Tuxedo Kamen, who leaned against the doors, another rose in his hand. "How are you even conscious?" he asked.
"I will always protect Sailor Moon," Tuxedo Kamen replied weakly.
Lord Agate nodded and said, "I see." With that he pointed his staff towards Tuxedo Kamen and launched a bright golden bolt of energy at him, smiling confidently.
"Rainbow moon heart ache!" comes Sailor Moon's response, blocking Lord Agate's magic with power of her own.
Lord Agate ended his attack and silence fell for a moment, except the occasional crackle of energy from around Shade. Lord Agate waited, still confidant.
The senshi took the chance to go on the offensive. Sailor Mercury said, "Now might be our chance." The others nodded and she started, "Mercury aqua rhapsody!" and played a harp made of water.
"Right, let's finish this!" said Sailor Mars before she chanted, "Mars flame sniper!" and fired a bow of flame.
"I'm going to give him the shock of his existence," Sailor Jupiter said. " Jupiter oak evolution!" she then said, spinning around.
Sailor Venus added, "He can kiss his evil plans good bye." She then blew him a kiss and shouted, "Venus love and beauty shock!"
"I'll teach you to hurt my friends! I am Sailor Moon and I will punish you!" Sailor Moon finished with, and added her own attack call, "Rainbow moon heart ache!"
Water, fire, light, electricity and magic shot from the senshi in a combined attack towards Lord Agate. Lord Agate smirked and began to spin his staff rapidly creating a golden shield in front of him before the energy struck. It was a powerful force however, and while the shield blocked it, to his surprise Lord Agate was pushed back.
"You are much stronger then all records," murmured Lord Agate.
"It's not too late to give up," Sailor Venus told him.
Lord Agate walked to over where Shade was and replied, "Give up? How amusing." He gestured and the energy from the Shard Stars stopped coursing through Shade. Shade's existence fluctuated for a moment but he solidified, still trapped and unconscious. He eyed the black cracks that seemed to branch off from the corners of the nexus and tapped his staff to one. The staff vanished. Lord Agate murmured, "Curious. That could be useful to harness." He then removed the two Shard Stars and turned to the senshi and asked, "Now are you prepared for oblivion?"
In the shadows another figure watched. She did not really need to be there but she wanted to see things to the end, and knew she could help. Dreamerie focused on the semi-conscious Shade and whispered in a dream, 'Come forth Draconian Shadow. Come forth and gather your Master of Shadows.' Her message sent, she settled back, hidden from mortal eyes, to watch.
Three figures appeared between Lord Agate and the senshi. One was a giant shadowy panther, another a were-wolf like humanoid in plate mail, and the third was what looked like a miniature grey planet. Guide, Guardian and Host had arrived.
Lord Agate frown and shot energy from both Shard Stars. Senshi and shadows dodged with only Guardian standing her ground. She reflected the energy with her shield but got pushed back as the energy poured at her.
Guide moved to the side and looked at Shade for a moment then paused at another message. She nodded and then telepathically told the senshi 'You have a great challenge in front of you but do not give up. Believe in each other and you shall win. Just wait for your chance. Farewell.'
As the senshi watched, Guardian stepped aside from the energy blast and all three shadow creations moved forward. Guardian charged with a sword, while Host flew forward, ready to crash into Lord Agate. Lord Agate shot energy from both shards, pure black from the Dark Shard Star, and grey from the Light Shard Star as he mixed his negative energy with it.
Sailor Moon took the distraction to ready her scepter once more. However Lord Agate noticed and shot energy towards her. Before Lord Agate could get much energy off though, Guide jumped at him slashing with her claws, knocking the Shard Star of Light away for a moment and ending the attack. Sailor Moon got hit by the dark energy but quickly got up again, determined to win. What she saw next caused her to lose some of her determination.
Lord Agate snarled and said, "How DARE you damage me. You too can be destroyed." With that he leveled the Dark Shard Star at Guide and blasted her. She flew through the air and struck a wall as the crystal inside of her glowed from the increased strain. Lord Agate did not let up however and continued pumping dark energy at her, pinning her to the wall, feet dangling above the floor. Guide roared in pain, but after a moment the crystal inside absorbed too much negative energy and went dark. Lord Agate let up the energy as Guide faded away leaving a darkened shadow crystal in her place. The crystal, which was the main source of Guide's existence, fell to the floor and shattered, destroying her.
Lord Agate smiled and said, "One down." Guardian and Host immediately retreated, so Lord Agate turned to the senshi. "That was most impressive," he said. He calmly walked towards where the Shard Star of Light floated alone.
A reptilian roar interrupted Lord Agate's line of thought. Everyone turned towards Shade and the nexus. Before their eyes two spheres flew to and joined with him, which grey motes of light faded in near him and flowed into him. As the lights faded the roar happened once again. Lord Agate snared as he saw through the nexus, in the distance a large shape approaching. He quickly grabbed the second Shard Star and used them both around Shade to try to destroy whatever approached behind him. The creature ignored it.
It roared once more and Luna and Artemis, hidden near the door, murmured together, "Paradox," as Diana looked on.
True enough it was Paradox. Lord Agate recognized it too and tried to destroy it as he asked rhetorically, "Paradox and Shade are one. How can this be?" Paradox flew forward through the shadows and opened its mouth wide. The open mouth grew wider then the nexus but suddenly somehow it was through. It closed its mouth over Shade then faded away. The nexus remained a moment longer before it collapsed.
"Did Paradox eat Shade?" asked a concerned Sailor Mars.
"It sure did look like it but I thought Paradox was gone," Sailor Venus replied.
Lord Agate slowly turned back to the senshi and told them, "No matter. You are still doomed." With that he let loose with energy from both Shard Stars at the senshi. They were forced to scramble, barely keeping ahead of the blasts, as they ducked and dodged.
Lord Agate then paused in his attack and asked smugly, "You started a minor revolt, which flushes out traitors to me, and I shall crush. You destroyed the Sage, whom I can recreate. You stole the Dark Shards from my worthless followers, and I have them all now. What do you have to show for yourselves?"
The others slowly got to their feet as Sailor Moon looked at him and declared, "We still have our friendship, the love in our hearts and the courage to face evil like you!"
"I am impressed," Lord Agate said dryly, "That is very useful." He readied to attack once more.
Sailor Moon took a deep breath and waved a hand in front of her locket. It opened to reveal the ginzuishou crystal. She cupped her hands and it moved between them.
"Going to use your weak crystal on me? There is a reason the Shard Stars were separated. With their power you have no chance," Lord Agate proclaimed. He then used each hand to let loose a blast from each Star.
Sailor Moon opened her heart and readied to use the crystal to block the attack.
Unfortunately for Sailor Moon the attack didn't head at her. Lord Agate sent both energy blasts straight at the injured Tuxedo Kamen. Tuxedo Kamen opened his mouth to scream but no sound came out as the energy hit him.
"You obsessed creep! Leave him alone!" Sailor Chibi-Moon cried before she threw herself in the way of the energy stream.
Lord Agate's laugh started to echo eerily through the chamber as he continued the attack.
Sailor Moon, without another thought, moved between Lord Agate and Tuxedo Kamen and Sailor Chibi-Moon. She called forth the power of the stone to deflect the energy attacks with a positive energy shield. However a strange thing happened. While the shield blocked the negative energy, the grey energy from the Light Shard Star was not blocked and knocked Sailor Moon back.
Lord Agate stopped for a moment, impressed by his own power. "Your crystal is worthless," Lord Agate told Sailor Moon.
Sailor Moon got back up from the ground, looked at the ginzuishou and murmured, "It didn't block it." She shook her head and stood up defiantly and declared, "I will defend my friends to the end."
'Even so there should be a balanced chance,' came Shade's voice, telepathically to everyone.
Lord Agate looked around and asked, "What is this? Show yourself traitor."
A lone Shard fell from above, not Light or Dark, but Grey.
"The strange Shard that Shade possessed?" asked Sailor Mercury, with her visor down, analyzing it.
"A eleventh Shard? You can't fool me Grey One," declared Lord Agate. He proceeded to turn the Shard Stars' power onto the Grey Shard to destroy it.
As the energy streams struck the shard in unison, both streams suddenly went grey as both Stars were pulled from Lord Agate's control. Lord Agate instantly tried to use his magic to call them back. They slowed down but did not stop. They reached the shard and went to either side of it, and it in turn passed their power towards each other. Soon the Dark Shard Star was being enveloped in the Light Shard Star's positive energy and vise versa.
Lord Agate saw the energy and teleported forward to stop the Shards from possible destroying one another. He magically created a scimitar of gold, lifted it above his head and empowering it with his magic, he sliced down at the Grey Shard shouting, "You shall not deny my power, Shade!" He then cut the magically created Grey Shard in two equal pieces.
The two pieces fell to the ground. The two Stars just floated there, and became dormant. Shade appeared on the other side just fading into view, looking at the broken Shard.
"I am continually impressed by you," said Lord Agate as he smirked and reached for the Stars.
"I am sure.." Shade responded as both half Shards suddenly let loose with the rest of their stored energy at each Star. Shade then thrust his hand forward creating a cone of force, which struck both Shard Stars. Each Star Shard burst apart into its five Shard components.
Lord Agate snarled and let loose a magical blast of his own making at Shade. Since Shade was still weak he was unable to stop it and was knocked to the ground. Lord Agate then turned in the direction the Dark Shards had fallen, and raised a hand. The Shards of Darkness one by one flew to his hand and using his dark power he reformed them into the Shard Star of Darkness, and murmured, "As I said, I am very impressed, which what you achieved." He then turned to the more difficult task of calling the Shards of Light to him.
To his displeasure, he saw Sailor Venus, Sailor Mars, Sailor Jupiter, Sailor Mercury and Sailor Chibi-Moon each held one of the Shards of Light. "Looking for something?" Sailor Jupiter asked him as she smiled grimly.
"Oh, are you going to use those against me? You don't even know how," pointed out Lord Agate.
Sailor Mars responded, "If someone as dumb as you figured it out, it can't be that hard."
Lord Agate just shook his head, then attacked with the Dark Star. Energy lanced out at each of the Shard carrying senshi. The held the Shards in front of them, trying to will them to life, but they did nothing as the energy hit them. Despite all Tuxedo Kamen's injuries he reached forward to protect Sailor Chibi-Moon, in the process becoming even more hurt.
"I must defend my friends," said Sailor Moon as she stood up and concentrated on her ginzuishou crystal, "I must defend my world." A glow began to envelop her as a white dome covered her. She then stood and walked towards Lord Agate to block his attack on her friends.
Lord Agate frowned and said, "I know my mistake now. I should of destroyed you before, long ago. Now your friends will see your death." Then, no longer distracted by multiple Shard Stars and working with one truly suited to his disposition, he unleashed the full power at Sailor Moon.
Sailor Moon cried out and gritted her teeth as the energy hit her shield and started pushing her back.
"Pathetic. You don't know how to use the Shards are your crystal is too weak. This is the end Sailor Moon, I shall avenge Queen Beryl's death!" Lord Agate shouted.
Sailor Moon lost her concentration for a moment as she though, didn't he hate Queen Beryl? She quickly regained her concentration as Lord Agate he added his own magic to the Shard. She was pushed further back and forced to one knee as she gritted her teeth, and dark energy started to get through to her.
Sailor Venus closed her eyes, sat where she had been knocked down to and murmured, "Come on Sailor Moon. You haven't let us down yet. You are a great person with a great heart. I believe in you." The Shard of Light clutched in her hand started to glow yellow.
The rest also closed their eyes and concentrated. Sailor Jupiter quietly said, "We've beat all the others, only one more to go, and we can stop fighting. I know you can do it. I believe in you." Her Shard began to glow with a greenish tint.
Sailor Mercury whispered, "You have stood by all our sides in good times and bad. You may not try your best in school but you always try your best for us. I believe in you." Her Shard of Light also began to glow, this time blue.
"You may be a cry baby, lazy and a klutz but you always come through when we need it. We may get into fights a lot but you are the best friend I could have, even if you talk to dogs. I believe in you," Sailor Mars quietly said and her Shard glowing red.
Sailor Chibi-Moon said, "You may be bossy and you don't treat Mamo-chan good enough but I know your heart is in the right place even if your brain isn't. I believe in you." As Tuxedo Kamen gently let her go and slowly stood up, the Shard she held began to glow pink.
Tuxedo Kamen made his way to one side of Sailor Moon to support her, while Shade rose and moved forward and stood on the other side, though a bit further away. Luna, Artemis and Diana ran forward to stand behind Sailor Moon as the other senshi rose to stand behind her with the felines.
Lord Agate snarled as the positive energy started to push his power back. He then triggered his secret power source. The throne far behind his suddenly began to glow from awakened stored power. The energy shot forward and into Lord Agate giving him a golden glow, that the senshi might consider beautiful if the power wasn't to be used to try to destroy them. "I am prepared for everything. Die!" A globe of dark energy expanded from Lord Agate to meet the energy from Sailor Moon and push it back.
The energy being released in the room started the walls crumbling and rocks from the ceiling began to fall, only to be disintegrated from the energy which began to distort the very air.
"He's too..*" Sailor Moon tried to get out but couldn't finish as she had no energy to spare.
"We believe in you, Sailor Moon!" the senshi declared.
At the same time Tuxedo Kamen, transformed into Prince Endymion and said, "We all believe in you, Sailor Moon."
Shade stepped further from Sailor Moon, uncomfortable near so much aligned energy but said, "Reality is all perception. What is believed to be real, becomes real." As he began to say that the Shards began to glow more brightly. They flew from the senshi's hands and using the ginzuishou as the middle, they reformed a star around it. Sailor Moon magically changed into the Moon Princess.
As Lord Agate sent as much power as he could through the Dark Shard Star, Princess Serenity concentrated on her new Star of Light, using her crystal as the focus. "It can't be!" shouted Lord Agate in denial as the positive energy around the Moon Princess began to expand.
Lord Agate fought it as much as he could, but his hate and anger was not strong enough to hold back her love and hope. As the positive energy overwhelmed the Shard Star of Darkness and approached him, Lord Agate screamed out, "Beryl!" Then he was no more.
As the energy in the room faded the ginzuishou separated from the Shard Star of Light and landed in Princess Serenity's hands. The two Shard Stars floated in the room, silent once more. Princess Serenity turned to her friends and smiled. She quietly whispered, "We won."
* * * * *
Lord Agate sat and pondered the recent events, good and bad. He had created the Sage long ago after discovering that by mixing some magically enchanted trace metals with gold made it, as he called it, more sensitive to the winds of fate. He made the Sage of that metal mixture, and spent long hours forging the magic to animate the golem, and make her able to think and operate on her own, though still retaining her absolute loyalty. He was sure she was unbeatable but the senshi had stopped her attack on them, then destroyed her.
The senshi had someone assisting them however, Jadeite. Jadeite was now being a thorn in Lord Agate's side. Jadeite had been appearing on the other planets of the system, starting revolts against Lord Agate. Mars had already fallen to the rebels, and there were still threats on all other fronts.
Lord Agate smirked, thinking of Jadeite and how pointless Jadeite's efforts where. Lord Agate now had all the Shards. He had cast homing spells on the Dark Shards in case his subjects ever rebelled against him. He had not expected the senshi to get them. Fortunately they had foolishly left the Shards unguarded and he was able to active the spell without trouble. He now had both sets of Shards. All the Shards of the same type were connected at one end forming a five-point star.
He then gazed at the only other being in the room, who was positioned 20 feet away. The one flanked on both sides by the Shard Stars, their magic flowing through him. He was physically and magically bound by his arms and feet into position, and he was being used as focus for a gateway to the Plane of Shadow. Lord Agate thought for a moment if it was wise to use Shade like that but he shook his head. The Plane held a strange and powerful kind of energy that he was trying to harness. If he succeeded he would become the most powerful being in this dimension. It was worth the risks.
He chuckled to himself lightly. The senshi were now coming to get him, but he wasn't afraid. If he had not figured how to transform the power of the Plane of Shadows towards his own ends, he'd just use the Shard Stars to destroy them. Then he'd have plenty of time to undo all the harm they had done, thus making their sacrifice pointless. He found that very amusing and satisfying.
He didn't notice that the nexus surrounding Shade had black cracks forming from its corners.
* * * * *
"Um, what is going on?" asked Sailor Moon, gazing at the three shadows.
"This dimension is endangered as are others. We must strike at and remove the head from foolish beast, which runs towards its own and this dimension's destruction," replied Guardian from beneath the layers of metal she wore.
Sailor Mercury said, "I presume you meant Lord Agate. However I think Sailor Moon was probably referring to the, overload I think you called it."
Guide responded in her normal way, 'Each of us has a shadow crystal within us, though Host has two, and we draw our powers to work our magic and even exist. Though it is risky to us, we can overload them, drawing more power then usual, but it makes us more vulnerable to permanent destruction. In this case I believe it's necessary. However we can not keep this up for long, so we better go. Follow me.' With that Guide turned and ran towards one of the exits of the cavern the senshi were in.
The senshi glanced at each other and followed.
The group turned through different, caverns, and their changes in direction seemed random to most of them. They saw no one as they ran, and while Sailor Moon didn't notice, just happy to have no trouble, Guardian, Sailor Jupiter and Tuxedo Kamen noticed.
"I don't like this. We should have to fight for every inch here, especially after we destroyed the Sage. I wouldn't think Lord Agate would give us a chance," Sailor Jupiter pointed out.
Sailor Moon explained it away with, "Oh he's probably worrying about Jadeite and forgot about us. Now we can sneak in!"
"And what reality are you in?" asked Sailor Mars.
"Hey, you guys are just too worried for your own good," Sailor Moon replied.
Guardian made a, 'Be quiet,' gesture, as she moved strangely silently in the heavy plate armor. The others fell quiet and followed.
After a few minutes, they turned a corner and suddenly found themselves heading towards a huge cavern. In the middle of the cavern was some kind of strange and foreboding castle. Some kind of strange liquid surrounded the castle, and its drawbridge was up. "How are we supposed to get into that?" asked Sailor Venus.
Tuxedo Kamen pointed towards small window ledges near the drawbridge and suggested, "Seems to be more for looks then protection. We can jump up onto the window ledges, then the ledge above the drawbridge then over."
Sailor Moon smiled and nodded to Tuxedo Kamen then said, "Ok, let's do it!"
"Right!" replied the others.
The six senshi, cats and Tuxedo Kamen jumped from ledge to ledge, then over the castle wall. Guardian, Guide simply changed back to spheres, and along with guide, then flew over the wall to the other side.
As they landed, the senshi looked on in shock. The had found themselves in a courtyard filled with youmas staring back at them, and no easy way out.
Guardian was not intimidated as she changed back to her armored warrior form, this time wielding a mace. She told the senshi, "Follow us and conserve your power. You'll need it."
"But..*" started Sailor Venus as she looked around. She couldn't see how they'd be able to get through here without all of them using there powers, but she and the other senshi had to rush forward to keep with the shadows.
The youmas moved forward to meet Guardian, Guide and Host. Guardian bashed her way forward, slashing at any youmas in range, instantly cutting them apart. She began to cut a path through the mob of youmas.
One youma decided to not bother swinging but instead tackle Guardian, but Guide instantly stunned it with a psychic attack and then pounced on it knocking it out.
Youmas then began launching magical attacks on the group as the three shadows formed a protected wedge. Host intercepted these, their magic being captured by its ring and after the magical energy ran around its ring it was released after it was turned in direction to strike other youmas. As other youmas ran forward, Host captured them in its circling moons then launched them flying back at their fellow youmas.
As the senshi watched in awe the three shadows made their way forward, as Guardian bashed through the mass of youmas, opening them a path, while Guide and Host protected her back. The senshi followed along but except for the carefully placed rose of Tuxedo Kamen's the senshi had little trouble, as they made it to the other side of the courtyard and another set of double doors.
Guide and Host moved to the other side of the group to protect them. Guardian then moved forward and her mace began to glow brightly, turning back into a sword. She then took several, hard to see, lightning-quick slashes at the. After only a few moments she stopped and part of the door fell away, enough for the others to duck through as the shadow creations of Shade guarded away. The crystals within them began to pulse as they continued to try to maintain their power levels.
"Ok, we have to get through these halls then we'll reach the throne room. They are there," Guardian told them. She seemed to be a little less energetic, and the armor seemed to weigh a little heavier on her.
Sailor Moon replied, "Right. This time we are leading though. You are getting weak."
Guardian gave no reply but Guide simply said mentally, 'Right.'
Sailor Venus looked back through the ruined door and remarked in surprise, "You took so many out and I don't think you killed one of them. Oh well."
The group quickly moved down the hall. Occasionally they spotted a youma, but quickly dealt with them. After a time they reached the entry hall, which was guarded by a bunch of youmas. As the group approached, ready to fight their way to Lord Agate, a larger group of youmas came up from behind them, trapping them.
Tuxedo Kamen looked at both groups and said, "This can't be a good sign." Guardian just looked at him for a moment as her only response then turned her attention to the youmas coming from behind.
The senshi let loose their magical attacks on the youmas near the door making them back off. Sailor Chibi-Moon pointed and said, "Look, the door is open a little!"
Guide sent a mental message to the group, 'We'll watch your backs. Go through the door and close it. Then you'll only have Lord Agate left.'
Sailor Mercury shouted, "Shabon spray!" and covered the area in a thick fog.
As the youmas became disoriented, the cats and the senshi went through one by one until only Tuxedo Kamen remained, on the other side of the door but still looking towards where the shadows creations were. He shouted, "Come on, we are..*" but he we startled as the door closed on its own, pushing him into the room with the others.
The room Guardian, Guide and Host were in fell silent as the youmas backed off. The three moved to the door but found it not only physically, but magically blocked them. They moved away and then faded into the shadows of the room, leaving only youmas in it as the fog cleared.
* * * * *
A large boom echoed through the chamber as the door closed. Then silence.
The senshi looked around the room but one end was hidden in darkness. Tuxedo Kamen announced after trying the door, "There is no turning back."
"You are quite right, Tuxedo Kamen. Welcome, and prepare for your doom," came Lord Agate's voice from the dark area of the room. Golden lights lit up at the other end, and they lit up Lord Agate who sat on his throne, and held his dark crystal staff. To the side was a nexus, with Shade hanging in the middle. To either side of him were the two Shard Stars, their energy passing through them.
"Hey, you creep, let him go!" shouted Sailor Venus.
Sailor Moon pointed at him, "We are here to right wrong and to fight for justice. End your wicked ways now!"
Lord Agate looked at the glowing crystal on his staff, and he didn't even seem to pay attention. After a moment he turned to the senshi and asked, "Are you finished?"
Sailor Jupiter responded, "Just wait till we finish with you! You will never know what hit you."
Lord Agate stood up from his throne and said, "Oh yes, I'm sure," clearly unimpressed. He then told them, "Anyhow first some unfinished business." With that he tapped the end of his staff onto the ground. At the same moment, a magical bolt shot from his staff, one from his free hand and a third from his eyes, all headed towards Tuxedo Kamen.
Tuxedo Kamen tried to jump away, but the bolts homed into him. One by one they struck him sending him flying into the large doors. "Tuxedo Kamen!" screamed Sailor Moon and Sailor Chibi-Moon as they both ran to him.
Lord Agate proceeded to launch three more bolts. They dodged around Sailor Moon and Sailor Chibi-Moon to reach Tuxedo Kamen first, and they all struck him. Sailor Chibi-Moon turned to Lord Agate and cried, "You big jerk! Leave him alone!" As Sailor Moon reached Tuxedo Kamen. The other senshi formed a wall between Tuxedo Kamen and Lord Agate.
Lord Agate shook his head and said, "I was willing to let you live, in slavery, after I have slayed Queen Beryl's lover, but you foolishly get in the way."
Sailor Moon responded, "He never loved her, he was under mind control!"
Lord Agate shrugged, "She wanted him. That is enough reason to destroy him. Now I will destroy you all."
"We will defend those we care about no matter what you try!" shouted Sailor Moon as she took out her scepter.
"Whatever you say. First I'll deal with him," Lord Agate responded. He then removed his crown and threw it at Tuxedo Kamen much like Sailor Moon would throw her tiara. The crown sailed over the wall of senshi as Sailor Chibi-Moon tugged Tuxedo Kamen, and tried to pull him out of the way. Sailor Moon stood right in front of him, and jumped into the way of the crown. She was suddenly trapped within a large dark ring covered in thorns. "Foolish girl," Lord Agate said as he gestured and dark energy flowed around the ring.
Sailor Moon screamed in pain.
Lord Agate smirked while Sailor Mars shouted as she readied her flame, "Release her or eat fire!"
"No," replied Lord Agate, sending more energy through the ring.
The ring fell to the ground around Sailor Moon.
"What?" asked Lord Agate in surprise. He narrowed his eyes as he saw the severely injured Tuxedo Kamen, who leaned against the doors, another rose in his hand. "How are you even conscious?" he asked.
"I will always protect Sailor Moon," Tuxedo Kamen replied weakly.
Lord Agate nodded and said, "I see." With that he pointed his staff towards Tuxedo Kamen and launched a bright golden bolt of energy at him, smiling confidently.
"Rainbow moon heart ache!" comes Sailor Moon's response, blocking Lord Agate's magic with power of her own.
Lord Agate ended his attack and silence fell for a moment, except the occasional crackle of energy from around Shade. Lord Agate waited, still confidant.
The senshi took the chance to go on the offensive. Sailor Mercury said, "Now might be our chance." The others nodded and she started, "Mercury aqua rhapsody!" and played a harp made of water.
"Right, let's finish this!" said Sailor Mars before she chanted, "Mars flame sniper!" and fired a bow of flame.
"I'm going to give him the shock of his existence," Sailor Jupiter said. " Jupiter oak evolution!" she then said, spinning around.
Sailor Venus added, "He can kiss his evil plans good bye." She then blew him a kiss and shouted, "Venus love and beauty shock!"
"I'll teach you to hurt my friends! I am Sailor Moon and I will punish you!" Sailor Moon finished with, and added her own attack call, "Rainbow moon heart ache!"
Water, fire, light, electricity and magic shot from the senshi in a combined attack towards Lord Agate. Lord Agate smirked and began to spin his staff rapidly creating a golden shield in front of him before the energy struck. It was a powerful force however, and while the shield blocked it, to his surprise Lord Agate was pushed back.
"You are much stronger then all records," murmured Lord Agate.
"It's not too late to give up," Sailor Venus told him.
Lord Agate walked to over where Shade was and replied, "Give up? How amusing." He gestured and the energy from the Shard Stars stopped coursing through Shade. Shade's existence fluctuated for a moment but he solidified, still trapped and unconscious. He eyed the black cracks that seemed to branch off from the corners of the nexus and tapped his staff to one. The staff vanished. Lord Agate murmured, "Curious. That could be useful to harness." He then removed the two Shard Stars and turned to the senshi and asked, "Now are you prepared for oblivion?"
In the shadows another figure watched. She did not really need to be there but she wanted to see things to the end, and knew she could help. Dreamerie focused on the semi-conscious Shade and whispered in a dream, 'Come forth Draconian Shadow. Come forth and gather your Master of Shadows.' Her message sent, she settled back, hidden from mortal eyes, to watch.
Three figures appeared between Lord Agate and the senshi. One was a giant shadowy panther, another a were-wolf like humanoid in plate mail, and the third was what looked like a miniature grey planet. Guide, Guardian and Host had arrived.
Lord Agate frown and shot energy from both Shard Stars. Senshi and shadows dodged with only Guardian standing her ground. She reflected the energy with her shield but got pushed back as the energy poured at her.
Guide moved to the side and looked at Shade for a moment then paused at another message. She nodded and then telepathically told the senshi 'You have a great challenge in front of you but do not give up. Believe in each other and you shall win. Just wait for your chance. Farewell.'
As the senshi watched, Guardian stepped aside from the energy blast and all three shadow creations moved forward. Guardian charged with a sword, while Host flew forward, ready to crash into Lord Agate. Lord Agate shot energy from both shards, pure black from the Dark Shard Star, and grey from the Light Shard Star as he mixed his negative energy with it.
Sailor Moon took the distraction to ready her scepter once more. However Lord Agate noticed and shot energy towards her. Before Lord Agate could get much energy off though, Guide jumped at him slashing with her claws, knocking the Shard Star of Light away for a moment and ending the attack. Sailor Moon got hit by the dark energy but quickly got up again, determined to win. What she saw next caused her to lose some of her determination.
Lord Agate snarled and said, "How DARE you damage me. You too can be destroyed." With that he leveled the Dark Shard Star at Guide and blasted her. She flew through the air and struck a wall as the crystal inside of her glowed from the increased strain. Lord Agate did not let up however and continued pumping dark energy at her, pinning her to the wall, feet dangling above the floor. Guide roared in pain, but after a moment the crystal inside absorbed too much negative energy and went dark. Lord Agate let up the energy as Guide faded away leaving a darkened shadow crystal in her place. The crystal, which was the main source of Guide's existence, fell to the floor and shattered, destroying her.
Lord Agate smiled and said, "One down." Guardian and Host immediately retreated, so Lord Agate turned to the senshi. "That was most impressive," he said. He calmly walked towards where the Shard Star of Light floated alone.
A reptilian roar interrupted Lord Agate's line of thought. Everyone turned towards Shade and the nexus. Before their eyes two spheres flew to and joined with him, which grey motes of light faded in near him and flowed into him. As the lights faded the roar happened once again. Lord Agate snared as he saw through the nexus, in the distance a large shape approaching. He quickly grabbed the second Shard Star and used them both around Shade to try to destroy whatever approached behind him. The creature ignored it.
It roared once more and Luna and Artemis, hidden near the door, murmured together, "Paradox," as Diana looked on.
True enough it was Paradox. Lord Agate recognized it too and tried to destroy it as he asked rhetorically, "Paradox and Shade are one. How can this be?" Paradox flew forward through the shadows and opened its mouth wide. The open mouth grew wider then the nexus but suddenly somehow it was through. It closed its mouth over Shade then faded away. The nexus remained a moment longer before it collapsed.
"Did Paradox eat Shade?" asked a concerned Sailor Mars.
"It sure did look like it but I thought Paradox was gone," Sailor Venus replied.
Lord Agate slowly turned back to the senshi and told them, "No matter. You are still doomed." With that he let loose with energy from both Shard Stars at the senshi. They were forced to scramble, barely keeping ahead of the blasts, as they ducked and dodged.
Lord Agate then paused in his attack and asked smugly, "You started a minor revolt, which flushes out traitors to me, and I shall crush. You destroyed the Sage, whom I can recreate. You stole the Dark Shards from my worthless followers, and I have them all now. What do you have to show for yourselves?"
The others slowly got to their feet as Sailor Moon looked at him and declared, "We still have our friendship, the love in our hearts and the courage to face evil like you!"
"I am impressed," Lord Agate said dryly, "That is very useful." He readied to attack once more.
Sailor Moon took a deep breath and waved a hand in front of her locket. It opened to reveal the ginzuishou crystal. She cupped her hands and it moved between them.
"Going to use your weak crystal on me? There is a reason the Shard Stars were separated. With their power you have no chance," Lord Agate proclaimed. He then used each hand to let loose a blast from each Star.
Sailor Moon opened her heart and readied to use the crystal to block the attack.
Unfortunately for Sailor Moon the attack didn't head at her. Lord Agate sent both energy blasts straight at the injured Tuxedo Kamen. Tuxedo Kamen opened his mouth to scream but no sound came out as the energy hit him.
"You obsessed creep! Leave him alone!" Sailor Chibi-Moon cried before she threw herself in the way of the energy stream.
Lord Agate's laugh started to echo eerily through the chamber as he continued the attack.
Sailor Moon, without another thought, moved between Lord Agate and Tuxedo Kamen and Sailor Chibi-Moon. She called forth the power of the stone to deflect the energy attacks with a positive energy shield. However a strange thing happened. While the shield blocked the negative energy, the grey energy from the Light Shard Star was not blocked and knocked Sailor Moon back.
Lord Agate stopped for a moment, impressed by his own power. "Your crystal is worthless," Lord Agate told Sailor Moon.
Sailor Moon got back up from the ground, looked at the ginzuishou and murmured, "It didn't block it." She shook her head and stood up defiantly and declared, "I will defend my friends to the end."
'Even so there should be a balanced chance,' came Shade's voice, telepathically to everyone.
Lord Agate looked around and asked, "What is this? Show yourself traitor."
A lone Shard fell from above, not Light or Dark, but Grey.
"The strange Shard that Shade possessed?" asked Sailor Mercury, with her visor down, analyzing it.
"A eleventh Shard? You can't fool me Grey One," declared Lord Agate. He proceeded to turn the Shard Stars' power onto the Grey Shard to destroy it.
As the energy streams struck the shard in unison, both streams suddenly went grey as both Stars were pulled from Lord Agate's control. Lord Agate instantly tried to use his magic to call them back. They slowed down but did not stop. They reached the shard and went to either side of it, and it in turn passed their power towards each other. Soon the Dark Shard Star was being enveloped in the Light Shard Star's positive energy and vise versa.
Lord Agate saw the energy and teleported forward to stop the Shards from possible destroying one another. He magically created a scimitar of gold, lifted it above his head and empowering it with his magic, he sliced down at the Grey Shard shouting, "You shall not deny my power, Shade!" He then cut the magically created Grey Shard in two equal pieces.
The two pieces fell to the ground. The two Stars just floated there, and became dormant. Shade appeared on the other side just fading into view, looking at the broken Shard.
"I am continually impressed by you," said Lord Agate as he smirked and reached for the Stars.
"I am sure.." Shade responded as both half Shards suddenly let loose with the rest of their stored energy at each Star. Shade then thrust his hand forward creating a cone of force, which struck both Shard Stars. Each Star Shard burst apart into its five Shard components.
Lord Agate snarled and let loose a magical blast of his own making at Shade. Since Shade was still weak he was unable to stop it and was knocked to the ground. Lord Agate then turned in the direction the Dark Shards had fallen, and raised a hand. The Shards of Darkness one by one flew to his hand and using his dark power he reformed them into the Shard Star of Darkness, and murmured, "As I said, I am very impressed, which what you achieved." He then turned to the more difficult task of calling the Shards of Light to him.
To his displeasure, he saw Sailor Venus, Sailor Mars, Sailor Jupiter, Sailor Mercury and Sailor Chibi-Moon each held one of the Shards of Light. "Looking for something?" Sailor Jupiter asked him as she smiled grimly.
"Oh, are you going to use those against me? You don't even know how," pointed out Lord Agate.
Sailor Mars responded, "If someone as dumb as you figured it out, it can't be that hard."
Lord Agate just shook his head, then attacked with the Dark Star. Energy lanced out at each of the Shard carrying senshi. The held the Shards in front of them, trying to will them to life, but they did nothing as the energy hit them. Despite all Tuxedo Kamen's injuries he reached forward to protect Sailor Chibi-Moon, in the process becoming even more hurt.
"I must defend my friends," said Sailor Moon as she stood up and concentrated on her ginzuishou crystal, "I must defend my world." A glow began to envelop her as a white dome covered her. She then stood and walked towards Lord Agate to block his attack on her friends.
Lord Agate frowned and said, "I know my mistake now. I should of destroyed you before, long ago. Now your friends will see your death." Then, no longer distracted by multiple Shard Stars and working with one truly suited to his disposition, he unleashed the full power at Sailor Moon.
Sailor Moon cried out and gritted her teeth as the energy hit her shield and started pushing her back.
"Pathetic. You don't know how to use the Shards are your crystal is too weak. This is the end Sailor Moon, I shall avenge Queen Beryl's death!" Lord Agate shouted.
Sailor Moon lost her concentration for a moment as she though, didn't he hate Queen Beryl? She quickly regained her concentration as Lord Agate he added his own magic to the Shard. She was pushed further back and forced to one knee as she gritted her teeth, and dark energy started to get through to her.
Sailor Venus closed her eyes, sat where she had been knocked down to and murmured, "Come on Sailor Moon. You haven't let us down yet. You are a great person with a great heart. I believe in you." The Shard of Light clutched in her hand started to glow yellow.
The rest also closed their eyes and concentrated. Sailor Jupiter quietly said, "We've beat all the others, only one more to go, and we can stop fighting. I know you can do it. I believe in you." Her Shard began to glow with a greenish tint.
Sailor Mercury whispered, "You have stood by all our sides in good times and bad. You may not try your best in school but you always try your best for us. I believe in you." Her Shard of Light also began to glow, this time blue.
"You may be a cry baby, lazy and a klutz but you always come through when we need it. We may get into fights a lot but you are the best friend I could have, even if you talk to dogs. I believe in you," Sailor Mars quietly said and her Shard glowing red.
Sailor Chibi-Moon said, "You may be bossy and you don't treat Mamo-chan good enough but I know your heart is in the right place even if your brain isn't. I believe in you." As Tuxedo Kamen gently let her go and slowly stood up, the Shard she held began to glow pink.
Tuxedo Kamen made his way to one side of Sailor Moon to support her, while Shade rose and moved forward and stood on the other side, though a bit further away. Luna, Artemis and Diana ran forward to stand behind Sailor Moon as the other senshi rose to stand behind her with the felines.
Lord Agate snarled as the positive energy started to push his power back. He then triggered his secret power source. The throne far behind his suddenly began to glow from awakened stored power. The energy shot forward and into Lord Agate giving him a golden glow, that the senshi might consider beautiful if the power wasn't to be used to try to destroy them. "I am prepared for everything. Die!" A globe of dark energy expanded from Lord Agate to meet the energy from Sailor Moon and push it back.
The energy being released in the room started the walls crumbling and rocks from the ceiling began to fall, only to be disintegrated from the energy which began to distort the very air.
"He's too..*" Sailor Moon tried to get out but couldn't finish as she had no energy to spare.
"We believe in you, Sailor Moon!" the senshi declared.
At the same time Tuxedo Kamen, transformed into Prince Endymion and said, "We all believe in you, Sailor Moon."
Shade stepped further from Sailor Moon, uncomfortable near so much aligned energy but said, "Reality is all perception. What is believed to be real, becomes real." As he began to say that the Shards began to glow more brightly. They flew from the senshi's hands and using the ginzuishou as the middle, they reformed a star around it. Sailor Moon magically changed into the Moon Princess.
As Lord Agate sent as much power as he could through the Dark Shard Star, Princess Serenity concentrated on her new Star of Light, using her crystal as the focus. "It can't be!" shouted Lord Agate in denial as the positive energy around the Moon Princess began to expand.
Lord Agate fought it as much as he could, but his hate and anger was not strong enough to hold back her love and hope. As the positive energy overwhelmed the Shard Star of Darkness and approached him, Lord Agate screamed out, "Beryl!" Then he was no more.
As the energy in the room faded the ginzuishou separated from the Shard Star of Light and landed in Princess Serenity's hands. The two Shard Stars floated in the room, silent once more. Princess Serenity turned to her friends and smiled. She quietly whispered, "We won."