Disclaimer: Once again for legal reasons, I do not own Sailor Moon,
Dragonball Z or any other anime, nor do I own anything that is associated
with these anime. Thank you!
A/N Thank you for reading my fic. Once again, please if you see any grammatical errors or inconsistency please review and let me know. So, continue on and read and hopefully enjoy!
Hotaru winced as her spies gave they're reports on the Vegetaseii and Chikyuusei army. Apparently they had been massing for months on Vegetaseii's moon, one of the safest places to do it since they were always holding drill maneuvers up there. But why join forces now? What had caused the ruling monarchs to allow the assimilation of the Chikyuu troops with Vegetaseii's? With a sinking feeling in her stomach, she finally understood the five questions that had plagued her since the beginning.
Who? Chibi-Usa's resolve had finally worn away and she had tipped them off to the whereabouts of the many rebel camps. More than likely, Radditz, one of Vegeta's advisors, who was rather intelligent and quiet cruel, and Nappa, General over all of Vegeta's army as well as being one of Vegeta's advisors, who wasn't quite as intelligent as Radditz until it came to tactics and general warfare, but was more cruel and very sadistic, were the ones in charge of the operation. To be brutally honest, that terrified her. Radditz and Nappa were an unlikely team, but when they had a common goal, practically nothing could stop them. Evil was the only word to describe those two. Then again, that word could be used to describe Setsuna.
What had been the cause of the assimilation? Apart, the two armies were nothing, but unified? They would be one of the more powerful armies, and the only chance they had to even think of attempting to defeat Setsuna in all her power. Vegeta knew this and it had probably been a blow to his pride, which was why the combined army was under his control. A boost to his ego and a salve to his damaged pride. Rumors had also spread about a possible alliance between Vegeta and Freeza.
Freeza, Cooler's younger brother, was said to be more dangerous, stronger, smarter, et cetera. But in truth, Cooler was worse, much, much worse. She had met both of them, and it had only reinforced her opinion of who was the strongest. But if rumors were true, and they were to become allies, they would give the rebels a run for their money. She would have to see if they could sabotage any possible meetings between the two.
Where? She knew where they were, HAD, been gathering, and more than likely they had received training on the same place. Vegetaseii's moon was a harsh environment and very few creatures could live there, even Saiyans had a hard time surviving.
The ideal training ground, soldiers always had to be alert, aware of their surroundings. One brief moment of relaxation, you would never get a chance to experience it again. No matter what they did, it would always work against them. By themselves, they were easier to kill, and it was harder to defend oneself. In a group they were more conspicuous, and they tended to lower their defenses. Great training ground.
However, she had no idea where they were going to start their assault. Frustration coursed through her veins; angry because she knew the answer was right underneath her nose, yet it eluded her grasp. Flitting through her mind so quickly she could not possibly comprehend the warning. Atari! What is the answer? Where are they attacking? But no answer came, no sudden inspiration flashed through her in answer. The silent plea to her Goddess had been unheeded.
When? Judging by the reports, the attack was imminent. The army was either on it's way, or already there. But when had Chibi-Usa talked? Decisions made in good judgement were impossible until she had an estimate on when the betrayal had occurred. Instinct, however, was screaming that the assault was happening now. Since her instinct had never led her astray yet, she would trust in it again. Still though, when had Chibi-Usa finally cracked?
Why? Gohan was a good kid, or had been when they had first met, and Chibi- Usa still was. Hormones played a good part in the betrayal; it had been an instant attraction when they had met. Saiyan culture says that one cannot mate out of their class, unless they are bonded. Bonding was what happened between the two, a mental, physical, and even spiritual at times, link between two soul mates. When Vegeta learned of this, he immediately used it to his advantage. Using Gohan to get Chibi-Usa to tell him where the Rebels were. Gohan had been told lies, lies like it was for the good and safety of his family. Two good kids thrown and then wrapped up, in politics.
Serenity had been told about this and, instead of losing her temper, as was expected since her views of interracial marriages wasn't favorable, she had been thrilled. She seemed to understand right away the implications of the bonding. Turning the tide of war in their favor was no longer a remote possibility.
Being the vicious woman that she had turned into, Serenity had been more than willing to use her only daughter for political reasons. Pretending to be a loving mother (Hotaru and Setsuna believed she had forgotten how to love a long time ago while Michiru and Haruka believed she had never truly known how to love in the first place,) she had manipulated and lied to her daughter. If Chibi-Usa so much as breathed a word against her mother, she could be killed on the spot. Of course Chibi-Usa couldn't, wouldn't, do such a thing, but her mother trusted no one anymore, if she had ever trusted anyone at all. Eyes blinded, Chibi-Usa refused to see Serenity for what she really was.
It was the same with the Senshi. Refusing to call them the Inner Senshi because it associated them with the Outer Senshi, Setsuna called them youma now, but Hotaru and the other two never went that far. Crystal Tokyo had gradually been corrupted from within, so slowly that no one had noticed, no one except for Setsuna, who then began to cut off all ties to the Kingdom and counseled the others to do so was well. The corruption had seeped into the minds of the citizens was well as the Senshi.
"Power tends to corrupt, absolute power corrupts absolutely." An old proverb, but it was still true. Serenity and Endymion had forgotten the proverb and refused to give up any of their power, but, once again, Setsuna had understood the such a problem and within her own Kingdom had appointed a council that her subjects had chosen and every year they were either reinstated or replaced. The council had the power to overrule her decisions if her subjects wished it.
Alas, if only the other Senshi had followed her example. Perhaps such a situation could have been averted. Now, though, practically the whole Universe was embroiled in this war. Serenity, Vegeta, Freeza and his allies against Setsuna and her allies, and maybe, just maybe, Cooler and his allies. Rumors were spreading about such an alliance between the two, but even Hotaru, Michiru, and Haruka didn't know if they were true or not. They, like everyone else would have to wait and see
"Lady?" A timid, small man, wearing the symbol of a medic's apprentice, cautiously approached her. "Drettenth has awoken from the coma." Before she could reply he scurried off.
Ignoring his impromptu exit, she to ran off. Running as if the Deathhounds were after her, she shoved through the crowd milling in the courtyard. Heedless of everything but getting to Drettenth. Sprinting through doors and endless corridors, up and down multitudes of stairways, before she finally stopped in front of a lone door in a cold, dank hallway. Grinning like a maniac because finally she could feel his mind touch, she flung the door open and stepped into utter darkness. "Can we have a light perhaps?"
"No we canNOT have a light perhaps." Contrary to the words being spoken, a soft light appeared and illuminated the speaker. "Drettenth is sensitive at the moment." The short, squat woman stopped speaking and glared at Hotaru's snort of amusement. "Yes, sensitive! Or at least his eyes are. Because he has not been exposed to light for so long..."
Hotaru cut her off. "Yes, yes I understand all that Helga, but he is all right considering his eyes, right?"
Helga, who was of Scandinavian and Drettan descent, was a brusque woman who didn't care who or what you were, as long as you were trustworthy, honorable and could fight, intellectually or physically. Drettans were a hardy race from a planet that had no sun. Thick-skin and their genetic make-up made them impervious to the freezing temperatures. They thrived in cold weather; such environments were their paradise. Gravity wasn't a problem either, Dretta-sei was a planet renowned for it's gravity-pull, it was a scientific anomaly. A planet with no sun and no planet to revolve around, it stayed in the same place and the gravity-pull seemed to come from the middle of the planet itself. Her mother was a Drettan who worked as an assassin and her father a Scandinavian who worked as a bounty hunter. It was how they met, so Helga and grown up fighting all her life.
"How is he?!" Panic laced Hotaru's voice as Helga hesitated. "I need to know!"
"He's. better." Helga's voice was noncommittal, and she took a step back from the outraged Hotaru.
"What do you mean, better?!" The panic was gone, replaced by anger a hint of distress "Give me a straight answer demon-witch. How. Is. He. Doing?!" Stepping forward menacingly, Hotaru glared at the mage, who winced at the blatant insult, especially since Helga wasn't, and never would be (hopefully) a demon-witch.
Taking a deep breath, and taking a moment to still her trembling figure, she gave Hotaru a straight answer. "I meant what I said, and I said what I meant." She murmured wryly. "He's doing. better. He's no longer in a coma, but he's incredibly weak. That's what I meant." Helga sighed in relief as Hotaru's gaze finally relented. "Give him two more days and he'll be up to full strength."
"TWO DAYS?!" Hotaru screeched. "We don't have two days! I have to get to Setsuna NOW!" She began to pace frantically. How could this happen? For all she knew the attack was happening right now, and she could do NOTHING! "AAARGH! Now what am I going to do?" Life just wasn't fair. Without Drettenth she couldn't get to Setsuna quickly or send any messages.
"Hotaru?" A voice from the far wall asked weakly. "You're here? I can't really see."
Chuckling, Hotaru brightened the light a little bit. The idiot had his eyes closed. "Maybe if you had your eyes, oh I don't know, OPEN? But yeah, I'm here. Took you long enough to wake up, stupid." She gave him a quick once-over to see if there were any real injuries. He looked all right, considering all that had happened to him. "You look pretty bad, loser."
Drettenth scowled fiercely, trying, unsuccessfully, to scare Hotaru. "You wouldn't look so good either, wench."
"I'm glad you're doing better." Hotaru grinned at the large dragon. "It was pretty bad while you were out." Neither of them noticed Helga quietly excusing herself and leaving.
"Can't wait to hear all that's gone on." Drettenth croaked. "Do you have any food and water?"
"Oh no!" Hotaru's eyes widened in shock. "I am SO sorry. I forgot, totally, I'm sorry, really! Please forgive me."
"Never fear young 'uns." Helga bustled back in, followed by two large troughs. "I'll take care of both your needs. Just give me a moment," She flicked her hand and the troughs landed in front of Drettenth, filled with various kinds of meat and water. With another flick a table with food and drink appeared in front of Hotaru. "You haven't been eating well. You, more than any of us, need to keep up your strength. Don't let him gorge or he'll be sick." She looked pointedly Drettenth, who was stuffing himself. Then, with a slight bow, she disappeared once again.
"You heard the woman," Hotaru grinned at the dragon. "Stop eating so fast, or you really will get sick. Stupid."
Drettenth looked at her for a minute. "You try being in a coma for who knows how long, then wake up starving. Let's see you not gorge yourself. Anyway, tell me what's happened."
"Um, Serenity and Vegeta have now become "official" allies." She scowled. "They are using Chibi-Usa against us; they're hoping that through her, they'll have a clearer understanding of how Setsuna's mind works. I have no idea what Setsuna and the rest know or believe, we haven't heard from them since last month. Rumors have started about Setsuna and a possible alliance between her and Cooler, which reminds me." Her face darkened considerably. "Serenity and Vegeta have also allied themselves with Freeza."
"I've been out for somewhere around a month and this is all that's happened?!" Drettenth snorted. "How boring. I should've stayed out for longer." He stopped eating and the trough disappeared. "Have you tried contacting them?"
"No." Hotaru blushed slightly. "We've been waiting for them."
"HA! There's your problem!" He sounded positively smug. "You should have tried as soon as you knew something was wrong. Go try, right now. I'll still be here." He laughed as she snarled and stalked off.
"We aren't ready for this!" Setsuna glared hatefully at the approaching army. "All the dragons are out of commission, and there's not enough ground troops to tide us over."
Michiru growled. "We'll have to make do with just us then." She smiled, feeling the lust for battle overtaking her senses. "Keep the dragons on the ground and have them attack all those who pass by them. We will just have to use our magic."
"We can use Buruma as well." Haruka cut in. "Her training has gone very well, besides, there's nothing like the real thing to give you experience." She grinned at Buruma who blushed at the compliment from such an unexpected person. "Each of us will take some of the troops to back us up, then go to various, strategic positions around the camp. Setsuna! Are you listening?!"
Setsuna, who had been chuckling, was now laughing her head off at the reprimand. "We can get Cooler to back us up! I'll go contact him right now. Buruma, you're with me!" Oblivious to the incredulous looks she was receiving, she sprinted away. "I'll check on Raven as well!"
The three soldiers blinked. Twice. None of them had any idea what Setsuna had been talking about. They had just seen a side of the usually calm, collected woman no one had ever seen, and it threw them for a loop. Finally Michiru pushed Buruma in the direction Setsuna had run off in. "Go follow her. We'll take care of everything here." At Buruma's hesitation, Michiru shoved her harder. "Get going! We don't have time for this!"
Finally responding, Buruma took off after Setsuna. "Good luck, guys!" She shouted back to them before disappearing down the hill.
Blinking, Haruka looked at Michiru, not really understanding what had just happened. Then, it hit her. "We're allies with Cooler?!" Shock, incredulity and then anger flashed in her eyes. "How come I wasn't told about this? Why am I always the last one to know?!"
"You think I knew about this?!" Michiru snapped back. "Open your eyes, fool! No one knew about it! It might not even be Cooler, it might be a code-name for someone else to make us think she's allies with Cooler." She turned thoughtful. "I have no idea what's going on anymore. No one knows, except for Setsuna. Even then." She trailed off.
"I don't know what to think." Haruka sighed. "If it is Cooler, are we supposed to be happy to have such a powerful ally, or concerned? Life is too hectic anymore. I wish it was still the good 'ol days, when life was simple. When killing youma was all we had to worry about. The pure heart escapade was much less confusing."
"Yeah, I understand the feeling." They both sat there, thinking. "What are we doing?!" Michiru jumped up, effectively dispelling the strange mood they had both been in. "We have a calling to preserve the peace and we can't do that by living the past. We live for the next fight, the next kill. We are fighters, warriors, adapting to every new environment we are thrust into. We do not cry or complain, we follow our orders and fight to the death when necessary. We do not have time to sit and reminisce, not when there are battles to fight and wars to win. Get up and act like the proud warrior you are!" Michiru's voice carried across the campsite, full of power, echoing in every corner.
Every person who was there heard her and they no longer believed the situation hopeless. As long as they fought and did not run, perhaps some would survive this horrific day. After the sight of large army, most if not all, had been terrified, but now, now there was courage and as one, they shook off the horrible feeling of dread.
"Compelling speech. Just what we needed." Haruka glanced at the now busy camp. Everyone was busy preparing, Medics, soldiers, wives, children, they all were acting as one. "I believe they," she glanced at the enemy. "Were using their magic to try and break us. You did well. I only hope Setsuna and Buruma will be fine. Come!" She laughed. "We have a battle to fight!"
Desperately wanting to shout to Setsuna, Buruma wisely kept her mouth shut. She had been running for awhile now with no sight of Setsuna, no trace either. The task was beginning to seem hopeless. Finally she just gave up. "SETSUNA! WHERE THE HE. oomph." The wind was knocked out of her as she was punched in the stomach.
"Stupid! Are you TRYING to give away our location?" Setsuna hissed. She grabbed Buruma and dragged her into a cave. "Keep quiet for a minute, don't speak until I say." Setsuna closed her eyes and focused all her energy on the spell she was weaving. It was hard, seeing as how it was both a defensive and offensive spell, but it had to be done. Finally she opened her eyes and focused on Buruma. "Turn on the computer."
"Wha. oh." It still hurt to breathe and talk, but at least she could. She walked over to the terminal and turned it on. "What did you just do?"
Her breathing labored, Setsuna collapsed on the chair in front of it. "I cast a wall, figuratively speaking, around the back of the camp. The enemy is trying to surround us, and if it worked all really would be lost. I've made it so they can only attack from the front. It'll help Haruka and Michiru. The "wall" will also attack those who try to get through, giving them less opponents to deal with." She was typing furiously, password after password, trying to get them done as quickly as possible.
"Oh." Buruma was silent for a moment, gazing around the cave. She had never seen such advanced technology, except for once but she wasn't supposed to have seen it. This was a mechanics paradise! Everywhere she looked, a machine. Her life would be complete if she could take some of them apart and then put them back together again. "Who're you trying to contact?"
"Cooler." Came the short reply. Then, "Don't even THINK about touching any of these machines. You don't have the proper access code, yet." They were silent for a minute. "YES! I've gotten through to Cooler's personal line!"
"Is that a good thing?"
"Of course it is, SHH!" Setsuna waited impatiently as a mouse appeared on the screen. "My name is Queen Setsuna, I have an important request for Lord Cooler. Password is Neo-Queen Serenity is NOT an equal." She paused, then grinned as the mouse flicked random claws up at her. "That's a stupid password." The mouse let out an indignant squeak. "Sorry, please, let me talk to Cooler."
"What was all that about?" Buruma was shocked at the appearance of the mouse; it just didn't seem to fit what she'd heard about Cooler.
"I'll explain later, don't speak unless I give you permission." Setsuna glanced at Buruma, then back at the screen. "Nothing personal, I'll explain everything later. Promise."
"I'm busy! Send the important message the normal way, witch." A deep voice boomed out. The screen was completely black. "I'm very busy and have no time to deal with inexperienced hackers who think they're worth something!"
A light frown graced Setsuna's mouth. "Are you calling ME an inexperienced hacker, you overgrown purple lizard?!" She snapped irritably. "Because I am far from inexperienced, fool. I have to talk to you, so get off your high-horse and listen, I don't have time for your games."
There was silence on the other end, then Cooler appeared, looking far from apologetic. He glared at Setsuna, then looked at Buruma, who had to fight to hold his gaze. His eyes were so cola and hard! Completely devoid of any true feeling but the lust for blood. A true killer. Not even Freiza looked so scary and powerful. Even through the screen Buruma could sense his overwhelming power, it seemed to surround him and snap and hiss whenever he moved. Finally he looked back at Setsuna and Buruma could breathe again.
"Well?" His voice was as cold and hard as his eyes, but it was tinted with anger. "Don't just stand there and gawk, what's so important?"
Immediately Setsuna snapped out of whatever trance she had been in. "I do not gawk! Kindly take that false remark back." She met his glare with one of her own, and they stayed that way for a moment, probing for any new weaknesses. A huge explosion that rocked the cave, followed by a few more, smaller ones interrupted them. Setsuna smirked as she listened to the angry cries that followed the failed attack.
"What just happened? You're not fighting any wars without me are you?!" It was an accusation, and Cooler almost sounded, and looked, hurt. Almost. "That would be just like you, wouldn't it. Go behind my back and fight, without me." He hissed at her. "This is the kind of thanks I get? I offer my help, which you accepted, and then you have the audacity to not tell me that you are fighting. That hurts, it really does. I'm crushed."
Setsuna had waited patiently for him to finish ranting and when he paused, she immediately spoke up. "That's why I am here. I have realized the error of my ways and am now begging for your forgiveness. Please all mighty Lord Cooler, forgive me." It was quite obvious she was being sarcastic with the exaggerated rolling of her eyes, the heavy sighs in between sentences and her tone of voice.
"HA! It's good to hear from you, old friend. I was getting worried." Cooler laughed and it was not a nice laugh, it was harsh and cold and sent shivers down Buruma's spine and gave her a cold lump in her stomach. She didn't think he was capable of worrying. Setsuna seemed unaffected. "I am at your service great Lady. What can I do for you?"
"We need your help." Setsuna growled low in her throat. "The cowards launched a surprise attack while we are short on available fighters. There's a traitor. She gave them the information they needed."
"The brat with pink-hair?" Cooler snorted as Setsuna nodded. "I told you she would, that it was only a matter of time. Did I not say those exact words?"
"Yes! OKAY!" Setsuna snarled. "I remember your exact words! But if you will remember my exact words, I told you I was well aware of the problem, but that the advantages outweighed the risks at that moment." She shook her head viciously. "Will you help us or not?"
"Cooler sobered immediately. "One hour is the quickest I can get there. It's the best I can do." He sighed. "Leave some for my men. I've got to go. Cooler out."
As the screen went black, and computer shut itself off, Setsuna and Buruma locked eyes. "We have a battle to fight. I'll check on Kayla and Raven on the way back. You go straight to Haruka and Michiru, whoever you see first and tell them what's happened. I will be there shortly."
Buruma nodded and they both took off. Out of the cave and then in different directions. Setsuna towards Kayla, and Buruma towards the main battle. Understanding the gravity of the situation, Buruma was running as fast as she could, but the only thoughts in her mind were those revolving around what had just transpired.
"Buruma! Hey, Buruma, over here!" Michiru was standing on a hill, waving her arms trying to catch Buruma's attention. "STUPID! HURRY UP!"
She shook herself out of her reverie, and quickly changed direction. "I'm coming!" Buruma snapped back. "No need for insults. Jeez." She stopped next to Michiru, and they both slowly walked down the hill. "Where's Haruka?"
"She's with the first contingent of soldiers up ahead. They're going to ambush the first ground troops that pass by them. Where's Setsuna? Didn't she come back with you?" Michiru looked around, hoping Setsuna was somewhere close by, she had some bad news to tell her.
"She's checking on Kayla, I'm to report to you." Michiru nodded, telling Buruma to go on. "Setsuna has secured our backsides with a magical wall, she really did meet with Lord Cooler." Buruma trailed off with a shudder at the memory of Cooler.
"Well?" Michiru impatiently hissed. "What happened? Hurry, we don't have much time!"
"Sorry." Buruma smiled weakly. "He has promised to help us, but will not arrive until an hour from now. Before then, we are on our own."
"All right then. I fell safe in assuming that she did not give us any orders. Didn't think so. You will stay with me and fight." Michiru began to yell. "We've waited long enough! Come my comrades in arms, we have to go and help out Haruka! Quickly! To battle!"
With a resounding cry, the soldiers who had been waiting for this moment echoed her last words. "TO BATTLE!" Before anyone could move, though, they heard to sounds of battle, accompanied by indistinct shouts, and then one, clear shout.
"FALL BACK! TO THE HILLS! THE HILLS!"
"Are we ready for this friends?" Without waiting for an answer, Michiru shouted, "We have no fear! We live for the fight! LET US WIN THIS BATTLE!"
With another fierce cry, the soldiers, with Michiru and Buruma at their head, rushed up the hill and straight into the fight. To Buruma it was almost overwhelming, everywhere one looked, there was fighting and bloodshed. Intermingled with the cries of pain and the cries of victory, as well as the stench, was the dust. It blanketed everything until one could hardly tell friend from foe. The odds are against us, was her last coherent thought before she submitted to the carnal bloodlust all her race suffered from.
Right-hand jab, uppercut, block, block, head-butt, kill. Fireball over there, freeze some people over there. Tiger-claw to the front, mule-kick to the back. It's been far too long since I've done hand-to-hand combat. Block sword-attack, parry with dagger to the ribs. Signature move, "WORLD SHAKING!" Take out sword, tab, thrust, block, parry, kill to the left and to the right. Use magic, collapse hill on group of enemies. Kill someone in front, defend my back. "Where's Setsuna?" Haruka shouted to whomever could hear her.
Haruka's shout freed Buruma, momentarily, from the grip of the blood lust. "She should be here soon. She was checking on Kayla!" She didn't know if Haruka had responded or not because she was too busy fighting. High-kick, low-kick, uppercut, kill. Ki-blast, head-butt, block, block, body-slam, break a neck. It was almost as if Buruma was a spectator, watching herself fight. Someone else was in her body using moves she didn't know she could do. It was a strange feeling.
Michiru grunted as a magic blast slammed into her, momentarily disorienting her. After a jab to her stomach and a kick to her backside, she came back to herself. Somehow she had been cut off from the main group and now had only five, no four soldiers. Nope, now there was three. "Cover my back!" Michiru shouted. "I have to try and get the attention of the Dragons, they're killing too many of our soldiers."
"Go! We've got things covered here!" One of the three remaining soldiers yelled back. She was an elite who was called Chaos; no one remembered her real name anymore. A powerful fighter, she preferred hand-to-hand combat and fighting a large group, she caused Chaos wherever she went. Hence the name. Average height, she had flaming red hair that was kept in a tight braid. With clear, piercing gray eyes she could intimidate an enemy with a single, cold glance.
"Hey! Where are the other Dragons? We can't find ours!" Death, another elite shouted to Michiru, but it was too late, Michiru was in too deep of a trance to hear her. "Havok! To your left!" This to the third of their company. Death was taller than Chaos but still wasn't very tall. Thin and inconspicuous, she made an excellent assassin, who completed every assignment given her. She had dark-blue eyes and her hair was a dark, dark brown.
"Yeah, yeah, I've got it! Don't worry!" Havok snapped back, she had been teammates with Chaos and Death for years. They had a strong bond and it showed in all of their actions. Havok was about as tall as Chaos but that was where all similarities ended. Havok was more reserved than Chaos and she preferred fighting one-on-one using weapons. She had white hair and intense coal-black eyes. Like the other two, she was an elite and a Dragon- rider; all three used Greater-Dragons.
The three fell to the task of protecting Michiru with enthusiasm. Forming a triangle around her, they easily dispatched any enemy that came into range. To them this was but practice, a trial run before the real battle, where they would fight true soldiers, elite fighters that would pose a true challenge. Now was the time to perfect their timing and attacks, to test new moves. They could hardly wait.
Two Dragons fell in behind Setsuna, easily keeping pace with her. They knew where she was headed, they were the ones who had showed her the place. It was a cave that seemed to accelerate one's healing and Kayla and Raven were both in there. "We need to return to our Riders soon." One of them, a large, purple dragon rasped. "They need us, the war is not going well."
A/N: Well there it is! Ch. 3! A longer one too! Sorry it took so long, kept on having these minor writers block, forgot the plot-line for a while, oh it was hell. But I won't bother you guys with it. Thanks for waiting everyone! Ch. 4 should be up sooner than this one was!
gorigirl - thanks! I really appreciate it. It's nice to know when people like your stuff. If you have any ideas please, let me know! Criticisms anything like that.
A/N Thank you for reading my fic. Once again, please if you see any grammatical errors or inconsistency please review and let me know. So, continue on and read and hopefully enjoy!
Hotaru winced as her spies gave they're reports on the Vegetaseii and Chikyuusei army. Apparently they had been massing for months on Vegetaseii's moon, one of the safest places to do it since they were always holding drill maneuvers up there. But why join forces now? What had caused the ruling monarchs to allow the assimilation of the Chikyuu troops with Vegetaseii's? With a sinking feeling in her stomach, she finally understood the five questions that had plagued her since the beginning.
Who? Chibi-Usa's resolve had finally worn away and she had tipped them off to the whereabouts of the many rebel camps. More than likely, Radditz, one of Vegeta's advisors, who was rather intelligent and quiet cruel, and Nappa, General over all of Vegeta's army as well as being one of Vegeta's advisors, who wasn't quite as intelligent as Radditz until it came to tactics and general warfare, but was more cruel and very sadistic, were the ones in charge of the operation. To be brutally honest, that terrified her. Radditz and Nappa were an unlikely team, but when they had a common goal, practically nothing could stop them. Evil was the only word to describe those two. Then again, that word could be used to describe Setsuna.
What had been the cause of the assimilation? Apart, the two armies were nothing, but unified? They would be one of the more powerful armies, and the only chance they had to even think of attempting to defeat Setsuna in all her power. Vegeta knew this and it had probably been a blow to his pride, which was why the combined army was under his control. A boost to his ego and a salve to his damaged pride. Rumors had also spread about a possible alliance between Vegeta and Freeza.
Freeza, Cooler's younger brother, was said to be more dangerous, stronger, smarter, et cetera. But in truth, Cooler was worse, much, much worse. She had met both of them, and it had only reinforced her opinion of who was the strongest. But if rumors were true, and they were to become allies, they would give the rebels a run for their money. She would have to see if they could sabotage any possible meetings between the two.
Where? She knew where they were, HAD, been gathering, and more than likely they had received training on the same place. Vegetaseii's moon was a harsh environment and very few creatures could live there, even Saiyans had a hard time surviving.
The ideal training ground, soldiers always had to be alert, aware of their surroundings. One brief moment of relaxation, you would never get a chance to experience it again. No matter what they did, it would always work against them. By themselves, they were easier to kill, and it was harder to defend oneself. In a group they were more conspicuous, and they tended to lower their defenses. Great training ground.
However, she had no idea where they were going to start their assault. Frustration coursed through her veins; angry because she knew the answer was right underneath her nose, yet it eluded her grasp. Flitting through her mind so quickly she could not possibly comprehend the warning. Atari! What is the answer? Where are they attacking? But no answer came, no sudden inspiration flashed through her in answer. The silent plea to her Goddess had been unheeded.
When? Judging by the reports, the attack was imminent. The army was either on it's way, or already there. But when had Chibi-Usa talked? Decisions made in good judgement were impossible until she had an estimate on when the betrayal had occurred. Instinct, however, was screaming that the assault was happening now. Since her instinct had never led her astray yet, she would trust in it again. Still though, when had Chibi-Usa finally cracked?
Why? Gohan was a good kid, or had been when they had first met, and Chibi- Usa still was. Hormones played a good part in the betrayal; it had been an instant attraction when they had met. Saiyan culture says that one cannot mate out of their class, unless they are bonded. Bonding was what happened between the two, a mental, physical, and even spiritual at times, link between two soul mates. When Vegeta learned of this, he immediately used it to his advantage. Using Gohan to get Chibi-Usa to tell him where the Rebels were. Gohan had been told lies, lies like it was for the good and safety of his family. Two good kids thrown and then wrapped up, in politics.
Serenity had been told about this and, instead of losing her temper, as was expected since her views of interracial marriages wasn't favorable, she had been thrilled. She seemed to understand right away the implications of the bonding. Turning the tide of war in their favor was no longer a remote possibility.
Being the vicious woman that she had turned into, Serenity had been more than willing to use her only daughter for political reasons. Pretending to be a loving mother (Hotaru and Setsuna believed she had forgotten how to love a long time ago while Michiru and Haruka believed she had never truly known how to love in the first place,) she had manipulated and lied to her daughter. If Chibi-Usa so much as breathed a word against her mother, she could be killed on the spot. Of course Chibi-Usa couldn't, wouldn't, do such a thing, but her mother trusted no one anymore, if she had ever trusted anyone at all. Eyes blinded, Chibi-Usa refused to see Serenity for what she really was.
It was the same with the Senshi. Refusing to call them the Inner Senshi because it associated them with the Outer Senshi, Setsuna called them youma now, but Hotaru and the other two never went that far. Crystal Tokyo had gradually been corrupted from within, so slowly that no one had noticed, no one except for Setsuna, who then began to cut off all ties to the Kingdom and counseled the others to do so was well. The corruption had seeped into the minds of the citizens was well as the Senshi.
"Power tends to corrupt, absolute power corrupts absolutely." An old proverb, but it was still true. Serenity and Endymion had forgotten the proverb and refused to give up any of their power, but, once again, Setsuna had understood the such a problem and within her own Kingdom had appointed a council that her subjects had chosen and every year they were either reinstated or replaced. The council had the power to overrule her decisions if her subjects wished it.
Alas, if only the other Senshi had followed her example. Perhaps such a situation could have been averted. Now, though, practically the whole Universe was embroiled in this war. Serenity, Vegeta, Freeza and his allies against Setsuna and her allies, and maybe, just maybe, Cooler and his allies. Rumors were spreading about such an alliance between the two, but even Hotaru, Michiru, and Haruka didn't know if they were true or not. They, like everyone else would have to wait and see
"Lady?" A timid, small man, wearing the symbol of a medic's apprentice, cautiously approached her. "Drettenth has awoken from the coma." Before she could reply he scurried off.
Ignoring his impromptu exit, she to ran off. Running as if the Deathhounds were after her, she shoved through the crowd milling in the courtyard. Heedless of everything but getting to Drettenth. Sprinting through doors and endless corridors, up and down multitudes of stairways, before she finally stopped in front of a lone door in a cold, dank hallway. Grinning like a maniac because finally she could feel his mind touch, she flung the door open and stepped into utter darkness. "Can we have a light perhaps?"
"No we canNOT have a light perhaps." Contrary to the words being spoken, a soft light appeared and illuminated the speaker. "Drettenth is sensitive at the moment." The short, squat woman stopped speaking and glared at Hotaru's snort of amusement. "Yes, sensitive! Or at least his eyes are. Because he has not been exposed to light for so long..."
Hotaru cut her off. "Yes, yes I understand all that Helga, but he is all right considering his eyes, right?"
Helga, who was of Scandinavian and Drettan descent, was a brusque woman who didn't care who or what you were, as long as you were trustworthy, honorable and could fight, intellectually or physically. Drettans were a hardy race from a planet that had no sun. Thick-skin and their genetic make-up made them impervious to the freezing temperatures. They thrived in cold weather; such environments were their paradise. Gravity wasn't a problem either, Dretta-sei was a planet renowned for it's gravity-pull, it was a scientific anomaly. A planet with no sun and no planet to revolve around, it stayed in the same place and the gravity-pull seemed to come from the middle of the planet itself. Her mother was a Drettan who worked as an assassin and her father a Scandinavian who worked as a bounty hunter. It was how they met, so Helga and grown up fighting all her life.
"How is he?!" Panic laced Hotaru's voice as Helga hesitated. "I need to know!"
"He's. better." Helga's voice was noncommittal, and she took a step back from the outraged Hotaru.
"What do you mean, better?!" The panic was gone, replaced by anger a hint of distress "Give me a straight answer demon-witch. How. Is. He. Doing?!" Stepping forward menacingly, Hotaru glared at the mage, who winced at the blatant insult, especially since Helga wasn't, and never would be (hopefully) a demon-witch.
Taking a deep breath, and taking a moment to still her trembling figure, she gave Hotaru a straight answer. "I meant what I said, and I said what I meant." She murmured wryly. "He's doing. better. He's no longer in a coma, but he's incredibly weak. That's what I meant." Helga sighed in relief as Hotaru's gaze finally relented. "Give him two more days and he'll be up to full strength."
"TWO DAYS?!" Hotaru screeched. "We don't have two days! I have to get to Setsuna NOW!" She began to pace frantically. How could this happen? For all she knew the attack was happening right now, and she could do NOTHING! "AAARGH! Now what am I going to do?" Life just wasn't fair. Without Drettenth she couldn't get to Setsuna quickly or send any messages.
"Hotaru?" A voice from the far wall asked weakly. "You're here? I can't really see."
Chuckling, Hotaru brightened the light a little bit. The idiot had his eyes closed. "Maybe if you had your eyes, oh I don't know, OPEN? But yeah, I'm here. Took you long enough to wake up, stupid." She gave him a quick once-over to see if there were any real injuries. He looked all right, considering all that had happened to him. "You look pretty bad, loser."
Drettenth scowled fiercely, trying, unsuccessfully, to scare Hotaru. "You wouldn't look so good either, wench."
"I'm glad you're doing better." Hotaru grinned at the large dragon. "It was pretty bad while you were out." Neither of them noticed Helga quietly excusing herself and leaving.
"Can't wait to hear all that's gone on." Drettenth croaked. "Do you have any food and water?"
"Oh no!" Hotaru's eyes widened in shock. "I am SO sorry. I forgot, totally, I'm sorry, really! Please forgive me."
"Never fear young 'uns." Helga bustled back in, followed by two large troughs. "I'll take care of both your needs. Just give me a moment," She flicked her hand and the troughs landed in front of Drettenth, filled with various kinds of meat and water. With another flick a table with food and drink appeared in front of Hotaru. "You haven't been eating well. You, more than any of us, need to keep up your strength. Don't let him gorge or he'll be sick." She looked pointedly Drettenth, who was stuffing himself. Then, with a slight bow, she disappeared once again.
"You heard the woman," Hotaru grinned at the dragon. "Stop eating so fast, or you really will get sick. Stupid."
Drettenth looked at her for a minute. "You try being in a coma for who knows how long, then wake up starving. Let's see you not gorge yourself. Anyway, tell me what's happened."
"Um, Serenity and Vegeta have now become "official" allies." She scowled. "They are using Chibi-Usa against us; they're hoping that through her, they'll have a clearer understanding of how Setsuna's mind works. I have no idea what Setsuna and the rest know or believe, we haven't heard from them since last month. Rumors have started about Setsuna and a possible alliance between her and Cooler, which reminds me." Her face darkened considerably. "Serenity and Vegeta have also allied themselves with Freeza."
"I've been out for somewhere around a month and this is all that's happened?!" Drettenth snorted. "How boring. I should've stayed out for longer." He stopped eating and the trough disappeared. "Have you tried contacting them?"
"No." Hotaru blushed slightly. "We've been waiting for them."
"HA! There's your problem!" He sounded positively smug. "You should have tried as soon as you knew something was wrong. Go try, right now. I'll still be here." He laughed as she snarled and stalked off.
"We aren't ready for this!" Setsuna glared hatefully at the approaching army. "All the dragons are out of commission, and there's not enough ground troops to tide us over."
Michiru growled. "We'll have to make do with just us then." She smiled, feeling the lust for battle overtaking her senses. "Keep the dragons on the ground and have them attack all those who pass by them. We will just have to use our magic."
"We can use Buruma as well." Haruka cut in. "Her training has gone very well, besides, there's nothing like the real thing to give you experience." She grinned at Buruma who blushed at the compliment from such an unexpected person. "Each of us will take some of the troops to back us up, then go to various, strategic positions around the camp. Setsuna! Are you listening?!"
Setsuna, who had been chuckling, was now laughing her head off at the reprimand. "We can get Cooler to back us up! I'll go contact him right now. Buruma, you're with me!" Oblivious to the incredulous looks she was receiving, she sprinted away. "I'll check on Raven as well!"
The three soldiers blinked. Twice. None of them had any idea what Setsuna had been talking about. They had just seen a side of the usually calm, collected woman no one had ever seen, and it threw them for a loop. Finally Michiru pushed Buruma in the direction Setsuna had run off in. "Go follow her. We'll take care of everything here." At Buruma's hesitation, Michiru shoved her harder. "Get going! We don't have time for this!"
Finally responding, Buruma took off after Setsuna. "Good luck, guys!" She shouted back to them before disappearing down the hill.
Blinking, Haruka looked at Michiru, not really understanding what had just happened. Then, it hit her. "We're allies with Cooler?!" Shock, incredulity and then anger flashed in her eyes. "How come I wasn't told about this? Why am I always the last one to know?!"
"You think I knew about this?!" Michiru snapped back. "Open your eyes, fool! No one knew about it! It might not even be Cooler, it might be a code-name for someone else to make us think she's allies with Cooler." She turned thoughtful. "I have no idea what's going on anymore. No one knows, except for Setsuna. Even then." She trailed off.
"I don't know what to think." Haruka sighed. "If it is Cooler, are we supposed to be happy to have such a powerful ally, or concerned? Life is too hectic anymore. I wish it was still the good 'ol days, when life was simple. When killing youma was all we had to worry about. The pure heart escapade was much less confusing."
"Yeah, I understand the feeling." They both sat there, thinking. "What are we doing?!" Michiru jumped up, effectively dispelling the strange mood they had both been in. "We have a calling to preserve the peace and we can't do that by living the past. We live for the next fight, the next kill. We are fighters, warriors, adapting to every new environment we are thrust into. We do not cry or complain, we follow our orders and fight to the death when necessary. We do not have time to sit and reminisce, not when there are battles to fight and wars to win. Get up and act like the proud warrior you are!" Michiru's voice carried across the campsite, full of power, echoing in every corner.
Every person who was there heard her and they no longer believed the situation hopeless. As long as they fought and did not run, perhaps some would survive this horrific day. After the sight of large army, most if not all, had been terrified, but now, now there was courage and as one, they shook off the horrible feeling of dread.
"Compelling speech. Just what we needed." Haruka glanced at the now busy camp. Everyone was busy preparing, Medics, soldiers, wives, children, they all were acting as one. "I believe they," she glanced at the enemy. "Were using their magic to try and break us. You did well. I only hope Setsuna and Buruma will be fine. Come!" She laughed. "We have a battle to fight!"
Desperately wanting to shout to Setsuna, Buruma wisely kept her mouth shut. She had been running for awhile now with no sight of Setsuna, no trace either. The task was beginning to seem hopeless. Finally she just gave up. "SETSUNA! WHERE THE HE. oomph." The wind was knocked out of her as she was punched in the stomach.
"Stupid! Are you TRYING to give away our location?" Setsuna hissed. She grabbed Buruma and dragged her into a cave. "Keep quiet for a minute, don't speak until I say." Setsuna closed her eyes and focused all her energy on the spell she was weaving. It was hard, seeing as how it was both a defensive and offensive spell, but it had to be done. Finally she opened her eyes and focused on Buruma. "Turn on the computer."
"Wha. oh." It still hurt to breathe and talk, but at least she could. She walked over to the terminal and turned it on. "What did you just do?"
Her breathing labored, Setsuna collapsed on the chair in front of it. "I cast a wall, figuratively speaking, around the back of the camp. The enemy is trying to surround us, and if it worked all really would be lost. I've made it so they can only attack from the front. It'll help Haruka and Michiru. The "wall" will also attack those who try to get through, giving them less opponents to deal with." She was typing furiously, password after password, trying to get them done as quickly as possible.
"Oh." Buruma was silent for a moment, gazing around the cave. She had never seen such advanced technology, except for once but she wasn't supposed to have seen it. This was a mechanics paradise! Everywhere she looked, a machine. Her life would be complete if she could take some of them apart and then put them back together again. "Who're you trying to contact?"
"Cooler." Came the short reply. Then, "Don't even THINK about touching any of these machines. You don't have the proper access code, yet." They were silent for a minute. "YES! I've gotten through to Cooler's personal line!"
"Is that a good thing?"
"Of course it is, SHH!" Setsuna waited impatiently as a mouse appeared on the screen. "My name is Queen Setsuna, I have an important request for Lord Cooler. Password is Neo-Queen Serenity is NOT an equal." She paused, then grinned as the mouse flicked random claws up at her. "That's a stupid password." The mouse let out an indignant squeak. "Sorry, please, let me talk to Cooler."
"What was all that about?" Buruma was shocked at the appearance of the mouse; it just didn't seem to fit what she'd heard about Cooler.
"I'll explain later, don't speak unless I give you permission." Setsuna glanced at Buruma, then back at the screen. "Nothing personal, I'll explain everything later. Promise."
"I'm busy! Send the important message the normal way, witch." A deep voice boomed out. The screen was completely black. "I'm very busy and have no time to deal with inexperienced hackers who think they're worth something!"
A light frown graced Setsuna's mouth. "Are you calling ME an inexperienced hacker, you overgrown purple lizard?!" She snapped irritably. "Because I am far from inexperienced, fool. I have to talk to you, so get off your high-horse and listen, I don't have time for your games."
There was silence on the other end, then Cooler appeared, looking far from apologetic. He glared at Setsuna, then looked at Buruma, who had to fight to hold his gaze. His eyes were so cola and hard! Completely devoid of any true feeling but the lust for blood. A true killer. Not even Freiza looked so scary and powerful. Even through the screen Buruma could sense his overwhelming power, it seemed to surround him and snap and hiss whenever he moved. Finally he looked back at Setsuna and Buruma could breathe again.
"Well?" His voice was as cold and hard as his eyes, but it was tinted with anger. "Don't just stand there and gawk, what's so important?"
Immediately Setsuna snapped out of whatever trance she had been in. "I do not gawk! Kindly take that false remark back." She met his glare with one of her own, and they stayed that way for a moment, probing for any new weaknesses. A huge explosion that rocked the cave, followed by a few more, smaller ones interrupted them. Setsuna smirked as she listened to the angry cries that followed the failed attack.
"What just happened? You're not fighting any wars without me are you?!" It was an accusation, and Cooler almost sounded, and looked, hurt. Almost. "That would be just like you, wouldn't it. Go behind my back and fight, without me." He hissed at her. "This is the kind of thanks I get? I offer my help, which you accepted, and then you have the audacity to not tell me that you are fighting. That hurts, it really does. I'm crushed."
Setsuna had waited patiently for him to finish ranting and when he paused, she immediately spoke up. "That's why I am here. I have realized the error of my ways and am now begging for your forgiveness. Please all mighty Lord Cooler, forgive me." It was quite obvious she was being sarcastic with the exaggerated rolling of her eyes, the heavy sighs in between sentences and her tone of voice.
"HA! It's good to hear from you, old friend. I was getting worried." Cooler laughed and it was not a nice laugh, it was harsh and cold and sent shivers down Buruma's spine and gave her a cold lump in her stomach. She didn't think he was capable of worrying. Setsuna seemed unaffected. "I am at your service great Lady. What can I do for you?"
"We need your help." Setsuna growled low in her throat. "The cowards launched a surprise attack while we are short on available fighters. There's a traitor. She gave them the information they needed."
"The brat with pink-hair?" Cooler snorted as Setsuna nodded. "I told you she would, that it was only a matter of time. Did I not say those exact words?"
"Yes! OKAY!" Setsuna snarled. "I remember your exact words! But if you will remember my exact words, I told you I was well aware of the problem, but that the advantages outweighed the risks at that moment." She shook her head viciously. "Will you help us or not?"
"Cooler sobered immediately. "One hour is the quickest I can get there. It's the best I can do." He sighed. "Leave some for my men. I've got to go. Cooler out."
As the screen went black, and computer shut itself off, Setsuna and Buruma locked eyes. "We have a battle to fight. I'll check on Kayla and Raven on the way back. You go straight to Haruka and Michiru, whoever you see first and tell them what's happened. I will be there shortly."
Buruma nodded and they both took off. Out of the cave and then in different directions. Setsuna towards Kayla, and Buruma towards the main battle. Understanding the gravity of the situation, Buruma was running as fast as she could, but the only thoughts in her mind were those revolving around what had just transpired.
"Buruma! Hey, Buruma, over here!" Michiru was standing on a hill, waving her arms trying to catch Buruma's attention. "STUPID! HURRY UP!"
She shook herself out of her reverie, and quickly changed direction. "I'm coming!" Buruma snapped back. "No need for insults. Jeez." She stopped next to Michiru, and they both slowly walked down the hill. "Where's Haruka?"
"She's with the first contingent of soldiers up ahead. They're going to ambush the first ground troops that pass by them. Where's Setsuna? Didn't she come back with you?" Michiru looked around, hoping Setsuna was somewhere close by, she had some bad news to tell her.
"She's checking on Kayla, I'm to report to you." Michiru nodded, telling Buruma to go on. "Setsuna has secured our backsides with a magical wall, she really did meet with Lord Cooler." Buruma trailed off with a shudder at the memory of Cooler.
"Well?" Michiru impatiently hissed. "What happened? Hurry, we don't have much time!"
"Sorry." Buruma smiled weakly. "He has promised to help us, but will not arrive until an hour from now. Before then, we are on our own."
"All right then. I fell safe in assuming that she did not give us any orders. Didn't think so. You will stay with me and fight." Michiru began to yell. "We've waited long enough! Come my comrades in arms, we have to go and help out Haruka! Quickly! To battle!"
With a resounding cry, the soldiers who had been waiting for this moment echoed her last words. "TO BATTLE!" Before anyone could move, though, they heard to sounds of battle, accompanied by indistinct shouts, and then one, clear shout.
"FALL BACK! TO THE HILLS! THE HILLS!"
"Are we ready for this friends?" Without waiting for an answer, Michiru shouted, "We have no fear! We live for the fight! LET US WIN THIS BATTLE!"
With another fierce cry, the soldiers, with Michiru and Buruma at their head, rushed up the hill and straight into the fight. To Buruma it was almost overwhelming, everywhere one looked, there was fighting and bloodshed. Intermingled with the cries of pain and the cries of victory, as well as the stench, was the dust. It blanketed everything until one could hardly tell friend from foe. The odds are against us, was her last coherent thought before she submitted to the carnal bloodlust all her race suffered from.
Right-hand jab, uppercut, block, block, head-butt, kill. Fireball over there, freeze some people over there. Tiger-claw to the front, mule-kick to the back. It's been far too long since I've done hand-to-hand combat. Block sword-attack, parry with dagger to the ribs. Signature move, "WORLD SHAKING!" Take out sword, tab, thrust, block, parry, kill to the left and to the right. Use magic, collapse hill on group of enemies. Kill someone in front, defend my back. "Where's Setsuna?" Haruka shouted to whomever could hear her.
Haruka's shout freed Buruma, momentarily, from the grip of the blood lust. "She should be here soon. She was checking on Kayla!" She didn't know if Haruka had responded or not because she was too busy fighting. High-kick, low-kick, uppercut, kill. Ki-blast, head-butt, block, block, body-slam, break a neck. It was almost as if Buruma was a spectator, watching herself fight. Someone else was in her body using moves she didn't know she could do. It was a strange feeling.
Michiru grunted as a magic blast slammed into her, momentarily disorienting her. After a jab to her stomach and a kick to her backside, she came back to herself. Somehow she had been cut off from the main group and now had only five, no four soldiers. Nope, now there was three. "Cover my back!" Michiru shouted. "I have to try and get the attention of the Dragons, they're killing too many of our soldiers."
"Go! We've got things covered here!" One of the three remaining soldiers yelled back. She was an elite who was called Chaos; no one remembered her real name anymore. A powerful fighter, she preferred hand-to-hand combat and fighting a large group, she caused Chaos wherever she went. Hence the name. Average height, she had flaming red hair that was kept in a tight braid. With clear, piercing gray eyes she could intimidate an enemy with a single, cold glance.
"Hey! Where are the other Dragons? We can't find ours!" Death, another elite shouted to Michiru, but it was too late, Michiru was in too deep of a trance to hear her. "Havok! To your left!" This to the third of their company. Death was taller than Chaos but still wasn't very tall. Thin and inconspicuous, she made an excellent assassin, who completed every assignment given her. She had dark-blue eyes and her hair was a dark, dark brown.
"Yeah, yeah, I've got it! Don't worry!" Havok snapped back, she had been teammates with Chaos and Death for years. They had a strong bond and it showed in all of their actions. Havok was about as tall as Chaos but that was where all similarities ended. Havok was more reserved than Chaos and she preferred fighting one-on-one using weapons. She had white hair and intense coal-black eyes. Like the other two, she was an elite and a Dragon- rider; all three used Greater-Dragons.
The three fell to the task of protecting Michiru with enthusiasm. Forming a triangle around her, they easily dispatched any enemy that came into range. To them this was but practice, a trial run before the real battle, where they would fight true soldiers, elite fighters that would pose a true challenge. Now was the time to perfect their timing and attacks, to test new moves. They could hardly wait.
Two Dragons fell in behind Setsuna, easily keeping pace with her. They knew where she was headed, they were the ones who had showed her the place. It was a cave that seemed to accelerate one's healing and Kayla and Raven were both in there. "We need to return to our Riders soon." One of them, a large, purple dragon rasped. "They need us, the war is not going well."
A/N: Well there it is! Ch. 3! A longer one too! Sorry it took so long, kept on having these minor writers block, forgot the plot-line for a while, oh it was hell. But I won't bother you guys with it. Thanks for waiting everyone! Ch. 4 should be up sooner than this one was!
gorigirl - thanks! I really appreciate it. It's nice to know when people like your stuff. If you have any ideas please, let me know! Criticisms anything like that.