Disclaimer: I do not own or have any title, interest or right in either
Gundam Wing or Sailor Moon. This fanfiction is not being used for
commercial purposes. I own all other rights (to the extent legally
permissible) in connection with this writing.
* * * * *
The late morning sun was shining brightly on the group of travelers riding down the narrow trail near the outskirts of the forest. The group had only gotten a few hours of sleep the night before, and were roused early in the morning to resume their journey. The riders had been travelling for the past several hours without any rest under Heero's guidance.
As a knight, Duo had been conditioned to endure such long and grueling journeys. This excursion paled in comparison to some of the training he had to endure. But he was slightly concerned for the princesses.
Duo glanced at the three young ladies riding next to him. Princess Minako appeared somewhat fatigued, but she otherwise seemed fine. The tall brunette, Princess Makoto, seemed to be perfectly at home atop her horse. If Duo didn't know any better, he suspected that she was actually enjoying the morning ride. But it was the blue-haired Princess Ami that looked the most uncomfortable. Although she tried to hide it, Duo could tell that Ami was not holding up as well as the others. Duo also suspected that Heero was completely oblivious of this fact.
"I'm tired!" Duo complained loudly to Heero. "I want to take a rest!"
Heero glowered at him.
"We ride for another two hours, Duo," Heero informed him.
Duo sighed in an exaggerated manner. "Come on, Heero! We can't accomplish our mission if we're all completely exhausted. Besides, I'm going to get calluses on my butt. And I will hold you responsible for that!"
This last comment earned Duo a couple giggles, even from Ami.
"Two more hours," Heero stated flatly.
"I think we should rest," Rei suggested in a cool voice. "We can make up the time by riding a little longer tonight."
Heero turned to stare at her. Her violet eyes were calm, but resolute. He was not entirely sure how to react to her challenge of his decision to continue on. But for some inexplicable reason, he could not seem to find the words to protest.
"Fine," he agreed in a level voice. "We will take a brief rest by that cluster of trees up ahead."
Duo's jaw dropped in shock. Did Sir Yui Heero back down so easily? Duo was in such shock, he could not even formulate the proper words to mock his friend. Instead, he simply settled for shaking his head in amazement.
After Duo had tied up his horse to a nearby tree, he went to help Princesses Minako and Ami with their steeds. Princess Makoto had already secured her own horse to a nearby sapling.
Ami immediately went to curl up next to a small tree.
Duo walked by and kneeled down next to her.
"How are you feeling, your highness?" he inquired politely.
She offered him a genuine smile. "I'm feeling fine, thank you."
"Good!" Duo said, somewhat satisfied that she was looking a little better. He stood up and wandered off to help Wufei and Yuuichirou with the remaining packhorses.
"Are we enjoying ourselves?" Duo asked the other two knights.
Yuuichirou stared at him blankly. "How can this be fun...?"
"Just think about it! We get to have a romantic ride with a couple beautiful princesses! I can't imagine anything more fun."
"Shut up, Maxwell," Wufei snapped. "Can't you ever be serious?"
Duo's eyebrows quirked up slightly. "Possibly. But you and Heero are smothering us with your grim faces. Someone has to compensate for it."
"Baka!" Wufei snorted, as he finished up tying the last packhorse. Wufei glanced up and he seemed to notice something behind Duo. Wufei turned to glare at Duo.
"What?" Duo asked in confusion.
"Why don't you make yourself useful and help Princess Minako?" Wufei suggested gruffly.
Duo turned around to look at Princess Minako. The blond princess was apparently having difficulty opening a water flask. Without any hesitation, Duo strode over to the young princess.
"May I be of service, Minako-chan?" he asked gallantly.
Minako's face twitched slightly. "Minako-chan?" she exclaimed in shock. "Sir Duo, when did I ever give you permission to call me that?"
Duo shrugged and took the water flask from her. After a quick twist, the cap came open.
"You probably didn't give me permission," he agreed, handing the opened water flask to her. "Here you go, Minako-chan!"
She stared at him for a moment. An evil smirk appeared on her face. "Thanks, Duo-chan!"
"Duo.......chan?" Duo bristled slightly. After a moment of reflection, his face relaxed somewhat. "I suppose I had that one coming."
Minako gave him a quick smile before delicately sipping some water.
"Do you ever think about the consequences of your actions before you act?" she questioned him in a light voice.
Duo winked at her. "Probably not as often as I should. But when it comes to a beautiful woman, such as yourself, I tend to act without thinking."
Minako grinned. "So you think I am beautiful?"
"Your beauty is as radiant as the golden sun, and as majestic as the heavens themselves!" Duo waxed poetically. He was waving his arms in dramatic fashion as he spoke. The young man winked at her. "Should I go on?"
Minako was giggling profusely at this point. "Very tempting," she laughed. "But I'm not sure if I can handle anymore, right now."
Before Duo could take the opportunity to flirt any further with Minako, he was forcibly yanked by his braid.
"What do you want, Wufei?" Duo demanded indignantly.
Wufei glanced at him in irritation. "Shut up, Maxwell. Something is bothering Yui."
Duo noticed that Heero was staring up the path ahead. The braided youth tried vainly to determine what had captured Heero's interest, but Duo's eyes were not as keen as Heero's hawk-like vision. Princess Rei was standing quietly next to him, looking equally disturbed.
"Everyone, mount up," Heero ordered in a low voice. He swiftly sprung onto his steed. The young knight rested his hand on the pommel of his sword.
"Damn," Duo cursed lightly. Duo and the others hurriedly mounted their horses.
Duo's eyes continued to scan the horizon until he saw several mounted figures in the distance approaching them. As the figures drew closer, he noticed that they were all cloaked in dark clothing.
"Do you think they are unfriendly?" Duo queried.
"We can't be sure. We will need to be prepared in case they are an enemy," Heero advised. He turned to look at the other knights. "Our priority is to protect the princesses. For now, I want each of the princesses to stay in the center of our group. If we have to flee or if our group gets separated, we will meet at Leunire, a small town that lies several leagues ahead to the southwest."
Heero urged his horse forward several yards in front of the group. The young knight waited until the riders were within a reasonable distance for him to speak.
"Greetings," he called out in a plain voice.
The riders paused. Duo grimly noted that there were at least thirty or more of these horsemen. The braided youth was getting a strange sensation from the figures them. All of the riders had fixed an uncomfortable stare at the group of young knights and princesses.
Without a single word, the lead horseman drew his sword and charged forward.
* * * * *
Quatre calmly strode down the extravagantly decorated hallway of his father's palace. The young prince was dressed in fine silken, white robes trimmed with gold. He was accompanied by two attendants.
The enormous palace proudly sat in the center of Hadi, the capital of the Hadiya Kingdom. Quatre had spent the past night and most of the morning riding on horseback to reach the capital. The Desert Prince had been escorted on his journey by a handful of Maguanacs. Rashid had been left in charge of the remaining Maguanacs while Quatre was at the capital.
Quatre paused as he reached the massive, golden doors of the main reception chamber. One of the attendants meekly went up and rapped on the door softly. The doors were slowly pulled inwards in response. The opened doors revealed an ornately decorated chamber, filled with exquisite tapestries, stone sculptures, jewels, and fine silks. At the center of the room was a large table.
Quatre immediately noticed that his father was sitting at the large table with another man. His father had not changed much after all these years. The King's face was stern and noble, but marked with a sadness that Quatre never understood. His long, grey hair fell down to his shoulders.
Quatre did not recognize the other person sitting at the table. The stranger was a shockingly beautiful, young man with fine features and long, golden hair. He was dressed in a highly decorated uniform. Quatre noted the sinister gleam in the man's green eyes.
Prince Quatre kneeled down on the floor and bowed deeply before his father.
"My son, please join us," King Raberba Winner said.
Quatre stood up and walked over to the table. He could sense the stranger's icy stare upon him the entire time. Quatre respectfully seated himself near his father.
King Raberba Winner turned to look at his son. "We have received an emissary from a distant land. It appears that your men have been battling with his soldiers. I have summoned you so that you may talk with him. He has come to work out a peaceful resolution."
The Desert Prince nodded and turned to the stranger.
"Greetings, Prince Quatre," the blond stranger spoke in a smooth alto. "I am Lord General Zoisite. I have a proposal that may be of interest to you."
* * * * *
The dark horseman and his group hurtled toward the group of knights and princesses. The young knights drew their swords and braced themselves for the impeding onslaught. Minako realized that the four unarmored knights could not withstand the assault alone. The sheer numbers of the enemy would overwhelm all of them. She was not going to simply sit there and watch.
Princess Minako stretched out her right hand towards the heavens.
"Venusia Star Power!" she called out in a clear voice.
She was momentarily surrounded by a golden column of light that seemed to descend from the heavens. The young princess continued to glow with a bright radiance after the column of light vanished. Minako felt an intense surge of energy flood her body. Visible trails of energy swirled around her like a strong wind.
Minako studied the scene before her with a clear mind. Without any hesitation, she focused the raging power within her. The young princesses gestured towards the lead rider and unleashed a golden beam of energy. It raced through the air and slammed into the horseman before he could reach the group. The rider dropped to the ground like a stone.
From the corner of her eyes, she saw the stunned looks of amazement from the young knights.
Suddenly, Minako heard another voice call out to the heavens.
"Marseia Star Power!" cried out Princess Rei. The raven-haired princess was surrounded by a fiery, crimson aura. She clasped her hands together and launched a blast of flames at the oncoming horsemen. The burning flames lanced through the ranks of the approaching warriors and caused their terrified horses to break their formation.
As the horsemen attempted to regain control of their mounts, Princess Makoto turned her palm towards the heavens. "Jupeia Star Power!" she shouted out.
There was a brilliant flash of green light from the brunette princess. She sparkled like a fiery emerald. Power crackled from her fingertips. Makoto hurled a bolt of electricity that raked through the horsemen as they attempted to regroup.
Minako's eyes turned to gaze expectantly at Princess Ami. The blue-haired girl nodded gravely and raised her hand to the heavens. Ami's mellifluous voice spoke out, "Mercuria Star Power!"
The air around the blue-haired princess shimmered briefly for a moment. Ami drew her arms close for a moment and then thrust them out at the general direction of the enemy. An unnaturally heavy mist immediately enveloped the entire area.
"Ride out!" commanded Heero's clear voice.
Although Minako's vision was obscured by the mist, she could hear the nearby horses gallop off to her right. She guided her horse in that direction and hoped to stay close with the others. The young princess was somewhat reassured when she could detect the sounds of other horses nearby.
Once Minako broke free from the mist, she finally was able to see some of the others. Princess Ami was riding along with Sir Wufei up ahead.
When Minako turned to her left, she saw Duo's grinning face.
"Hello, Princess!" he winked at her.
Minako flashed him a quick smile. She glanced back over her shoulder and hoped that the others were safe as well.
* * * * *
"Ride out!" Heero's voice rang out through the mist.
Princess Rei heard some of the others ride off to her right. The young princess attempted to urge her horse in that general direction. But her startled horse reared up and bolted off to the left. Desperately, Rei tried to rein in her steed, but the fearful mare continued to gallop wildly through the woods. She ducked low to avoid getting caught by the tree branches overhead.
After several long and terrifying minutes, her steed seemed to calm down and settled into a steady trot. The mare continued to snort nervously as it continued to press further into the woods. Rei pulled herself upright and forcibly tugged on the reins. The mare reluctantly halted.
Rei paused to study her surroundings. She was alone in the middle of a more densely wooded area of the forest. The only noise she could detect were the sounds of insects and small animals scurrying about. Only faint traces of sunlight made their way through the heavy canopy overhead.
The young princess calmly closed her eyes in concentration. She let her mind stretch out to the surrounding area. She could sense the presence of the horsemen about a mile away. The distinct magical aura that dark horsemen emanated was unusually cold and distant. Rei shuddered.
Rei continued to let her mind wander out further to see if she could detect the other princesses' magical energy. Unfortunately, she discovered that the other princesses were even further away than the horsemen. Apparently, Rei was the only princess that had ridden out in this particular direction.
She also felt another faint, magical power near one of the other princesses. But the presence of the magic was masked quite well. Rei realized that she would only be able to read this particular kind of energy after considerable effort. The raven-haired princess sought to probe more deeply. She was not able to detect any hostile or evil aura. Rei was somewhat satisfied that it was not an immediate threat to the others.
"I guess all I can do now is meet the others in the town of Leunire," Rei sighed softly. She nudged her horse to the south.
* * * * *
Princess Makoto heard the command to escape through the mist. She deftly pulled on the reins of her stallion and sought to direct her mount to the safety of the forest.
Suddenly, her steed collided with something in the murky mist. She heard loud whinnies, snorts and hoof beats all around her. Makoto clenched her teeth in frustration when she realized that she was trapped in the middle of the frightened packhorses. This predicament was going to make her escape difficult.
She heard a familiar voice cursing nearby. It was the voice of Sir Yuuichirou, who had been only a few feet away. It was obvious that he was trying to get his own steed clear of the confused packhorses. But apparently, the packhorses were not interested in separating from each other.
Makoto anxiously looked around. The mist was slowly disappearing. She could see the nervous packhorses milling around her and Yuuichirou. The shadowy shapes of the horsemen were also drawing dangerously close. Makoto bit her lip as she considered whether to use her powers.
Makoto suddenly noticed that the packhorses were beginning to behave somewhat oddly. The packhorses appeared to have calmed down and began to move in a more deliberate manner. A path seemed to open up before her and Yuuichirou. Without any hesitation, Makoto spurred her horse to the woods and she could hear Yuuichirou following close behind.
The two raced through the forest on their steeds. Makoto noted that four dark horsemen were pursuing them. The young princess guided her horse skillfully through the forest. Makoto glanced over her shoulder and noticed that Yuuichirou and his steed were barely able to keep up with Makoto.
"Watch out!" Makoto cried in warning.
But she realized that it was too late. Yuuichirou tried dodging a low hanging branch, but the young man's head connected with the offending branch. He was knocked instantly off his mount to the forest floor.
Makoto wheeled her horse around towards Yuuichirou's prone body. Although Makoto had no particular plan in mind, she could not simply abandon him to the enemy. She steadied herself as the four horsemen rapidly approached..
Princess Makoto raised her hands to the heavens, once more seeking to call upon the powers of the star of Jupeia.
"You won't need to do that," a quiet voice murmured.
Makoto nearly jumped out of her saddle in shock. She spun around and saw a tall, handsome man seated upon a rust colored stallion only a few feet away. Makoto's eyes widened in recognition.
"What are you doing here?" she gasped.
Trowa Barton wordlessly drew his slim sword and charged at the dark horsemen ahead.
* * * * *
The dimly lit chamber was illuminated by the purple orb in Ninth Mistress' open palm. Her dark eyes studied Princess Usagi.
The blond princess was dangling by the chains shackled to her wrists. Golden strands of hair had fallen out from her usual buns. Her head was hanging limply to one side in exhaustion.
Ninth Mistress watched the silvery thread of energy drain from Princess Usagi's body into the violet orb. As the orb continued to suck away at the life force, the blond princess would occasionally convulse in pain.
Stop this! a voice demanded.
The voice broke Ninth Mistress' concentration. The purple orb flickered slightly and it ceased consuming Princess Usagi's life. Ninth Mistress glanced around in surprise. It took only a moment for Ninth Mistress to realize that the voice did not come from outside this borrowed body.
Is that you, poor little Hotaru? Ninth Mistress mocked. I thought I had sealed away your mind and soul. I am quite surprised you can even speak to me now.
Stop this, now! Hotaru's mind reiterated.
How does it feel to be trapped within your own body? sneered Ninth Mistress. Do you feel helpless? It must be terrible for you to watch me torment Princess Usagi. She was so nice to you.
Please, leave her alone! Hotaru insisted. You can do as you wish with my body!
Your body? But Hotaru, this body no longer belongs to you. I have owned your body ever since that fateful day you should have died. Without my presence, your body would wither away and die instantly.
I did not ask for this. My father should have let me die. Hotaru thought bitterly.
Perhaps... mused Ninth Mistress. Unfortunately, your father did not realize that in exchange for saving your pathetic life, he would be dooming both your souls. Tragic, isn't it?
There was a long pause.
I will destroy my own body... Hotaru threatened.
Ninth Mistress' face turned into a scowl. She felt a burning sensation deep within the body she shared with Hotaru. Ninth Mistress howled in pain when she felt the internal organs begin to collapse. She quickly focused all her own energy and directed it towards Hotaru's consciousness.
Hotaru's mind cried in anguish and there was silence.
I will not tolerate your foolishness! Ninth Mistress warned. I can make sure that your soul will suffer for all eternity. I even have the power to torture your beloved father's soul. Do not interfere with me again!
Ninth Mistress waited for a response. After a few moments, Ninth Mistress was satisfied that she could resume her task without disruption. With an evil glint in her eyes, Ninth Mistress continued to drain the life from Princess Usagi.
* * * * *
Author's Notes: Thanks everyone for the wonderful reviews! I am both grateful and very happy to receive such kind reviews. They are quite helpful and have provided inspiration for some of the story and character interaction. I will endeavor to work hard and get my next chapter out as soon as possible. Please review! Thanks again!
* * * * *
The late morning sun was shining brightly on the group of travelers riding down the narrow trail near the outskirts of the forest. The group had only gotten a few hours of sleep the night before, and were roused early in the morning to resume their journey. The riders had been travelling for the past several hours without any rest under Heero's guidance.
As a knight, Duo had been conditioned to endure such long and grueling journeys. This excursion paled in comparison to some of the training he had to endure. But he was slightly concerned for the princesses.
Duo glanced at the three young ladies riding next to him. Princess Minako appeared somewhat fatigued, but she otherwise seemed fine. The tall brunette, Princess Makoto, seemed to be perfectly at home atop her horse. If Duo didn't know any better, he suspected that she was actually enjoying the morning ride. But it was the blue-haired Princess Ami that looked the most uncomfortable. Although she tried to hide it, Duo could tell that Ami was not holding up as well as the others. Duo also suspected that Heero was completely oblivious of this fact.
"I'm tired!" Duo complained loudly to Heero. "I want to take a rest!"
Heero glowered at him.
"We ride for another two hours, Duo," Heero informed him.
Duo sighed in an exaggerated manner. "Come on, Heero! We can't accomplish our mission if we're all completely exhausted. Besides, I'm going to get calluses on my butt. And I will hold you responsible for that!"
This last comment earned Duo a couple giggles, even from Ami.
"Two more hours," Heero stated flatly.
"I think we should rest," Rei suggested in a cool voice. "We can make up the time by riding a little longer tonight."
Heero turned to stare at her. Her violet eyes were calm, but resolute. He was not entirely sure how to react to her challenge of his decision to continue on. But for some inexplicable reason, he could not seem to find the words to protest.
"Fine," he agreed in a level voice. "We will take a brief rest by that cluster of trees up ahead."
Duo's jaw dropped in shock. Did Sir Yui Heero back down so easily? Duo was in such shock, he could not even formulate the proper words to mock his friend. Instead, he simply settled for shaking his head in amazement.
After Duo had tied up his horse to a nearby tree, he went to help Princesses Minako and Ami with their steeds. Princess Makoto had already secured her own horse to a nearby sapling.
Ami immediately went to curl up next to a small tree.
Duo walked by and kneeled down next to her.
"How are you feeling, your highness?" he inquired politely.
She offered him a genuine smile. "I'm feeling fine, thank you."
"Good!" Duo said, somewhat satisfied that she was looking a little better. He stood up and wandered off to help Wufei and Yuuichirou with the remaining packhorses.
"Are we enjoying ourselves?" Duo asked the other two knights.
Yuuichirou stared at him blankly. "How can this be fun...?"
"Just think about it! We get to have a romantic ride with a couple beautiful princesses! I can't imagine anything more fun."
"Shut up, Maxwell," Wufei snapped. "Can't you ever be serious?"
Duo's eyebrows quirked up slightly. "Possibly. But you and Heero are smothering us with your grim faces. Someone has to compensate for it."
"Baka!" Wufei snorted, as he finished up tying the last packhorse. Wufei glanced up and he seemed to notice something behind Duo. Wufei turned to glare at Duo.
"What?" Duo asked in confusion.
"Why don't you make yourself useful and help Princess Minako?" Wufei suggested gruffly.
Duo turned around to look at Princess Minako. The blond princess was apparently having difficulty opening a water flask. Without any hesitation, Duo strode over to the young princess.
"May I be of service, Minako-chan?" he asked gallantly.
Minako's face twitched slightly. "Minako-chan?" she exclaimed in shock. "Sir Duo, when did I ever give you permission to call me that?"
Duo shrugged and took the water flask from her. After a quick twist, the cap came open.
"You probably didn't give me permission," he agreed, handing the opened water flask to her. "Here you go, Minako-chan!"
She stared at him for a moment. An evil smirk appeared on her face. "Thanks, Duo-chan!"
"Duo.......chan?" Duo bristled slightly. After a moment of reflection, his face relaxed somewhat. "I suppose I had that one coming."
Minako gave him a quick smile before delicately sipping some water.
"Do you ever think about the consequences of your actions before you act?" she questioned him in a light voice.
Duo winked at her. "Probably not as often as I should. But when it comes to a beautiful woman, such as yourself, I tend to act without thinking."
Minako grinned. "So you think I am beautiful?"
"Your beauty is as radiant as the golden sun, and as majestic as the heavens themselves!" Duo waxed poetically. He was waving his arms in dramatic fashion as he spoke. The young man winked at her. "Should I go on?"
Minako was giggling profusely at this point. "Very tempting," she laughed. "But I'm not sure if I can handle anymore, right now."
Before Duo could take the opportunity to flirt any further with Minako, he was forcibly yanked by his braid.
"What do you want, Wufei?" Duo demanded indignantly.
Wufei glanced at him in irritation. "Shut up, Maxwell. Something is bothering Yui."
Duo noticed that Heero was staring up the path ahead. The braided youth tried vainly to determine what had captured Heero's interest, but Duo's eyes were not as keen as Heero's hawk-like vision. Princess Rei was standing quietly next to him, looking equally disturbed.
"Everyone, mount up," Heero ordered in a low voice. He swiftly sprung onto his steed. The young knight rested his hand on the pommel of his sword.
"Damn," Duo cursed lightly. Duo and the others hurriedly mounted their horses.
Duo's eyes continued to scan the horizon until he saw several mounted figures in the distance approaching them. As the figures drew closer, he noticed that they were all cloaked in dark clothing.
"Do you think they are unfriendly?" Duo queried.
"We can't be sure. We will need to be prepared in case they are an enemy," Heero advised. He turned to look at the other knights. "Our priority is to protect the princesses. For now, I want each of the princesses to stay in the center of our group. If we have to flee or if our group gets separated, we will meet at Leunire, a small town that lies several leagues ahead to the southwest."
Heero urged his horse forward several yards in front of the group. The young knight waited until the riders were within a reasonable distance for him to speak.
"Greetings," he called out in a plain voice.
The riders paused. Duo grimly noted that there were at least thirty or more of these horsemen. The braided youth was getting a strange sensation from the figures them. All of the riders had fixed an uncomfortable stare at the group of young knights and princesses.
Without a single word, the lead horseman drew his sword and charged forward.
* * * * *
Quatre calmly strode down the extravagantly decorated hallway of his father's palace. The young prince was dressed in fine silken, white robes trimmed with gold. He was accompanied by two attendants.
The enormous palace proudly sat in the center of Hadi, the capital of the Hadiya Kingdom. Quatre had spent the past night and most of the morning riding on horseback to reach the capital. The Desert Prince had been escorted on his journey by a handful of Maguanacs. Rashid had been left in charge of the remaining Maguanacs while Quatre was at the capital.
Quatre paused as he reached the massive, golden doors of the main reception chamber. One of the attendants meekly went up and rapped on the door softly. The doors were slowly pulled inwards in response. The opened doors revealed an ornately decorated chamber, filled with exquisite tapestries, stone sculptures, jewels, and fine silks. At the center of the room was a large table.
Quatre immediately noticed that his father was sitting at the large table with another man. His father had not changed much after all these years. The King's face was stern and noble, but marked with a sadness that Quatre never understood. His long, grey hair fell down to his shoulders.
Quatre did not recognize the other person sitting at the table. The stranger was a shockingly beautiful, young man with fine features and long, golden hair. He was dressed in a highly decorated uniform. Quatre noted the sinister gleam in the man's green eyes.
Prince Quatre kneeled down on the floor and bowed deeply before his father.
"My son, please join us," King Raberba Winner said.
Quatre stood up and walked over to the table. He could sense the stranger's icy stare upon him the entire time. Quatre respectfully seated himself near his father.
King Raberba Winner turned to look at his son. "We have received an emissary from a distant land. It appears that your men have been battling with his soldiers. I have summoned you so that you may talk with him. He has come to work out a peaceful resolution."
The Desert Prince nodded and turned to the stranger.
"Greetings, Prince Quatre," the blond stranger spoke in a smooth alto. "I am Lord General Zoisite. I have a proposal that may be of interest to you."
* * * * *
The dark horseman and his group hurtled toward the group of knights and princesses. The young knights drew their swords and braced themselves for the impeding onslaught. Minako realized that the four unarmored knights could not withstand the assault alone. The sheer numbers of the enemy would overwhelm all of them. She was not going to simply sit there and watch.
Princess Minako stretched out her right hand towards the heavens.
"Venusia Star Power!" she called out in a clear voice.
She was momentarily surrounded by a golden column of light that seemed to descend from the heavens. The young princess continued to glow with a bright radiance after the column of light vanished. Minako felt an intense surge of energy flood her body. Visible trails of energy swirled around her like a strong wind.
Minako studied the scene before her with a clear mind. Without any hesitation, she focused the raging power within her. The young princesses gestured towards the lead rider and unleashed a golden beam of energy. It raced through the air and slammed into the horseman before he could reach the group. The rider dropped to the ground like a stone.
From the corner of her eyes, she saw the stunned looks of amazement from the young knights.
Suddenly, Minako heard another voice call out to the heavens.
"Marseia Star Power!" cried out Princess Rei. The raven-haired princess was surrounded by a fiery, crimson aura. She clasped her hands together and launched a blast of flames at the oncoming horsemen. The burning flames lanced through the ranks of the approaching warriors and caused their terrified horses to break their formation.
As the horsemen attempted to regain control of their mounts, Princess Makoto turned her palm towards the heavens. "Jupeia Star Power!" she shouted out.
There was a brilliant flash of green light from the brunette princess. She sparkled like a fiery emerald. Power crackled from her fingertips. Makoto hurled a bolt of electricity that raked through the horsemen as they attempted to regroup.
Minako's eyes turned to gaze expectantly at Princess Ami. The blue-haired girl nodded gravely and raised her hand to the heavens. Ami's mellifluous voice spoke out, "Mercuria Star Power!"
The air around the blue-haired princess shimmered briefly for a moment. Ami drew her arms close for a moment and then thrust them out at the general direction of the enemy. An unnaturally heavy mist immediately enveloped the entire area.
"Ride out!" commanded Heero's clear voice.
Although Minako's vision was obscured by the mist, she could hear the nearby horses gallop off to her right. She guided her horse in that direction and hoped to stay close with the others. The young princess was somewhat reassured when she could detect the sounds of other horses nearby.
Once Minako broke free from the mist, she finally was able to see some of the others. Princess Ami was riding along with Sir Wufei up ahead.
When Minako turned to her left, she saw Duo's grinning face.
"Hello, Princess!" he winked at her.
Minako flashed him a quick smile. She glanced back over her shoulder and hoped that the others were safe as well.
* * * * *
"Ride out!" Heero's voice rang out through the mist.
Princess Rei heard some of the others ride off to her right. The young princess attempted to urge her horse in that general direction. But her startled horse reared up and bolted off to the left. Desperately, Rei tried to rein in her steed, but the fearful mare continued to gallop wildly through the woods. She ducked low to avoid getting caught by the tree branches overhead.
After several long and terrifying minutes, her steed seemed to calm down and settled into a steady trot. The mare continued to snort nervously as it continued to press further into the woods. Rei pulled herself upright and forcibly tugged on the reins. The mare reluctantly halted.
Rei paused to study her surroundings. She was alone in the middle of a more densely wooded area of the forest. The only noise she could detect were the sounds of insects and small animals scurrying about. Only faint traces of sunlight made their way through the heavy canopy overhead.
The young princess calmly closed her eyes in concentration. She let her mind stretch out to the surrounding area. She could sense the presence of the horsemen about a mile away. The distinct magical aura that dark horsemen emanated was unusually cold and distant. Rei shuddered.
Rei continued to let her mind wander out further to see if she could detect the other princesses' magical energy. Unfortunately, she discovered that the other princesses were even further away than the horsemen. Apparently, Rei was the only princess that had ridden out in this particular direction.
She also felt another faint, magical power near one of the other princesses. But the presence of the magic was masked quite well. Rei realized that she would only be able to read this particular kind of energy after considerable effort. The raven-haired princess sought to probe more deeply. She was not able to detect any hostile or evil aura. Rei was somewhat satisfied that it was not an immediate threat to the others.
"I guess all I can do now is meet the others in the town of Leunire," Rei sighed softly. She nudged her horse to the south.
* * * * *
Princess Makoto heard the command to escape through the mist. She deftly pulled on the reins of her stallion and sought to direct her mount to the safety of the forest.
Suddenly, her steed collided with something in the murky mist. She heard loud whinnies, snorts and hoof beats all around her. Makoto clenched her teeth in frustration when she realized that she was trapped in the middle of the frightened packhorses. This predicament was going to make her escape difficult.
She heard a familiar voice cursing nearby. It was the voice of Sir Yuuichirou, who had been only a few feet away. It was obvious that he was trying to get his own steed clear of the confused packhorses. But apparently, the packhorses were not interested in separating from each other.
Makoto anxiously looked around. The mist was slowly disappearing. She could see the nervous packhorses milling around her and Yuuichirou. The shadowy shapes of the horsemen were also drawing dangerously close. Makoto bit her lip as she considered whether to use her powers.
Makoto suddenly noticed that the packhorses were beginning to behave somewhat oddly. The packhorses appeared to have calmed down and began to move in a more deliberate manner. A path seemed to open up before her and Yuuichirou. Without any hesitation, Makoto spurred her horse to the woods and she could hear Yuuichirou following close behind.
The two raced through the forest on their steeds. Makoto noted that four dark horsemen were pursuing them. The young princess guided her horse skillfully through the forest. Makoto glanced over her shoulder and noticed that Yuuichirou and his steed were barely able to keep up with Makoto.
"Watch out!" Makoto cried in warning.
But she realized that it was too late. Yuuichirou tried dodging a low hanging branch, but the young man's head connected with the offending branch. He was knocked instantly off his mount to the forest floor.
Makoto wheeled her horse around towards Yuuichirou's prone body. Although Makoto had no particular plan in mind, she could not simply abandon him to the enemy. She steadied herself as the four horsemen rapidly approached..
Princess Makoto raised her hands to the heavens, once more seeking to call upon the powers of the star of Jupeia.
"You won't need to do that," a quiet voice murmured.
Makoto nearly jumped out of her saddle in shock. She spun around and saw a tall, handsome man seated upon a rust colored stallion only a few feet away. Makoto's eyes widened in recognition.
"What are you doing here?" she gasped.
Trowa Barton wordlessly drew his slim sword and charged at the dark horsemen ahead.
* * * * *
The dimly lit chamber was illuminated by the purple orb in Ninth Mistress' open palm. Her dark eyes studied Princess Usagi.
The blond princess was dangling by the chains shackled to her wrists. Golden strands of hair had fallen out from her usual buns. Her head was hanging limply to one side in exhaustion.
Ninth Mistress watched the silvery thread of energy drain from Princess Usagi's body into the violet orb. As the orb continued to suck away at the life force, the blond princess would occasionally convulse in pain.
Stop this! a voice demanded.
The voice broke Ninth Mistress' concentration. The purple orb flickered slightly and it ceased consuming Princess Usagi's life. Ninth Mistress glanced around in surprise. It took only a moment for Ninth Mistress to realize that the voice did not come from outside this borrowed body.
Is that you, poor little Hotaru? Ninth Mistress mocked. I thought I had sealed away your mind and soul. I am quite surprised you can even speak to me now.
Stop this, now! Hotaru's mind reiterated.
How does it feel to be trapped within your own body? sneered Ninth Mistress. Do you feel helpless? It must be terrible for you to watch me torment Princess Usagi. She was so nice to you.
Please, leave her alone! Hotaru insisted. You can do as you wish with my body!
Your body? But Hotaru, this body no longer belongs to you. I have owned your body ever since that fateful day you should have died. Without my presence, your body would wither away and die instantly.
I did not ask for this. My father should have let me die. Hotaru thought bitterly.
Perhaps... mused Ninth Mistress. Unfortunately, your father did not realize that in exchange for saving your pathetic life, he would be dooming both your souls. Tragic, isn't it?
There was a long pause.
I will destroy my own body... Hotaru threatened.
Ninth Mistress' face turned into a scowl. She felt a burning sensation deep within the body she shared with Hotaru. Ninth Mistress howled in pain when she felt the internal organs begin to collapse. She quickly focused all her own energy and directed it towards Hotaru's consciousness.
Hotaru's mind cried in anguish and there was silence.
I will not tolerate your foolishness! Ninth Mistress warned. I can make sure that your soul will suffer for all eternity. I even have the power to torture your beloved father's soul. Do not interfere with me again!
Ninth Mistress waited for a response. After a few moments, Ninth Mistress was satisfied that she could resume her task without disruption. With an evil glint in her eyes, Ninth Mistress continued to drain the life from Princess Usagi.
* * * * *
Author's Notes: Thanks everyone for the wonderful reviews! I am both grateful and very happy to receive such kind reviews. They are quite helpful and have provided inspiration for some of the story and character interaction. I will endeavor to work hard and get my next chapter out as soon as possible. Please review! Thanks again!