Here's Chapter Seventeen! It's a little blast into the past of the Planet Mars. There will be a couple more chapters like this one so stay tuned! Thanks again everyone for all the reviews. :) Enjoy!
Forgotten Secrets of Mars
A lone figure of a woman hovered high above a red planet. Her scarlet eyes glowered at its beautiful surface, filled with a strange jealousy. She began to descend upon it, laughing wickedly as she did so. Four generals followed her, all surrounded by horrible monsters ready for the attack.
"Watch out King of Mars. You are old, and you are weak. Nothing can stop me- not your army, not your court, or even that lovely granddaughter of yours." Queen Beryl shouted at the Fire Palace beneath her.
Soldiers began to pour out of the wrought iron gates below and were soon met by the gruesome army from above. They attacked them viciously, showing no mercy. The soldiers were quickly overwhelmed for the numbers of their enemies were too much to bear. A lone figure glared up at the wicked queen from his place on the ground. He was small by stature, but regal and calm. Power radiated from his old body, revealing he was still a force to be reckoned with-but he was no fool. Beryl would win this battle.
"Sire!" Came a voice by his side.
The king turned to see his granddaughter's guardian, Chadwick, kneeling before him. The king acknowledged his presence with a nod and motioned for him to get up. The young man nodded, and rose to his full height.
"Sire, what should I do? Should I remain with you here on the battle field?" Chad asked desperately, wanting to serve his king.
The king smiled softly, a touch of pride on his lips- but he shook his head. "No, Chadwick. You must go protect my granddaughter. I fear she is in trouble, and she is our planet's only hope. This enemy is too strong for our army and I know we will not last much longer. Find her and take her to the Moon Kingdom. I entrust you with her life." The King said calmly, but regret filled his old eyes.
Mars Knight stared at him with disbelief. He shook his head slowly, not quite able to accept it. Mars was going to be destroyed?
"But Sire, what about you? I must get you out of here too! The planet needs you!" Chadwick pleaded.
"I must stay and protect Mars with all the power I have left. Now get Princess Raye off this planet and to the Moon!" King Mars commanded, his temper- much like his granddaughters- finally rearing its fiery head. However, a strange sadness was in his voice as well.
Chad backed away, and nodded. He bowed low, and looked back at the old king with such misery, he winced.
"And Chad..." he began softly. Chad looked at him. "Tell my granddaughter I love her. Have a safe journey, and please protect her."
"Yes, sire." Chad complied, feeling the tears rise.
He rose to his feet and ran quickly in the direction of the palace without looking back. The king turned back towards the woman who hovered above him at a distance. Her four generals stood around her, grinning wickedly.
"All right you old witch," he shouted, drawing his sword. "Let's get this over with."
"Yes, old man, and it will be over soon. But don't worry, we will find some sort of use for you." Queen Beryl said, her dark purple lips forming into a horrible smile.
Queen Beryl began to laugh as the old king charged towards her, ready to welcome his death.
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Chad was running through the palace halls, trying desperately to find the princess. The paintings of the fiery mountains and the passionate lovers of Mars loomed above him as he reached the throne room. Off to the right was the palace's fire shrine, and to the left, the Princesses chambers.
'Which way do I go?' He thought wildly. The palace began to shake and he had to catch his balance before he fell. Screams began to pour out of the Sacred Fire Room.
"Princess Raye!" he shouted and ran for the door with all the speed he could muster.
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Raye ran for the door, trying desperately to get to it before the floor gave way beneath her. She dimly heard herself screaming incoherently about her vision.
"Beryl! It's Beryl! Oh please! I must stop her!" She cried over and over again as she tried to reach the door.
The floor was crumbling beneath her and she tried to quicken her pace. The Sacred Fire roared behind her, warning her to go faster. She screamed as the floor fell away and she began to fall. Her hand clutched desperately for something to hold onto. Suddenly, she felt strong fingers grasp her wrist and she looked up to find Chadwick, her guardian.
"I've got you! Oh Raye, please hold on!" Mars Knight screamed fearfully.
"Don't let go of me!" She screamed back helplessly, gaping at the dark abyss beneath her.
"I won't, I'll never let you fall..." He said lovingly.
He pulled her with all of his strength, feeling his own feet begin to slip forward. Raye cried out as his fingers almost slipped from her wrist, but he gritted his teeth and held on, bracing himself again, and pulling back.
He lifted her until she was safely beside him. He wanted to make sure she was all right, but there was no time. He grabbed her hand and yanked her towards the door. He led her through the falling ruins, using his powers often to destroy the falling rubble around them. When they were finally outside, he stopped her.
"Princess, we have to leave now! We must go to the Moon." Mars Knight said, taking her hand.
"Wait!" Princess Raye exclaimed. "What about my grandfather? We can't just leave him!"
Chad looked down, unable to answer his princess' request.
"Chad! What's the matter with you?" Raye demanded suspiciously. She suddenly became afraid. "Where's my Grandpa?"
"He is fighting Queen Beryl..." Chad murmured, tears choking his voice. "I've been instructed to take you to the Moon. He told me he most likely wouldn't be following..." Chad said with a lot of reluctance.
Raye stared at him for a moment, her jaw quivering, then she exploded.
"NO! I'm not going anywhere! Not without my Grandpa!" She screamed, crying uncontrollably.
Chad reached for her, trying to bring her close, but she evaded his hands and ran towards the ruins of her kingdom. She raced passed piles of bodies belonging to men who had died bravely fighting for her planet and she looked away in horror and regret. She imagined the body of her grandfather among them and she ran faster. She had to save him. She had to!
She was halfway across the battlefield before Chad caught up with her and tackled her to the ground. He lifted her up and dragged her away as her tears and screams nearly tore his heart in two. He silenced his ears from her begging sobs and listened instead to the thunderous cries of grief from his own heart. She tried again to pull away, but tripped and fell to the ground in a struggling heap.
Chad took her in his arms, and held her tight as she beat his chest with her small hands ineffectually. He closed his eyes and transported them away before she could say anymore. He turned just in time to watch the palace crumble into nothing. The tears finally began to fall as he realized that somewhere down there, laid the body of his beloved king and the ruined memories of his glorious planet...
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Raye had fainted during the transport and had collapsed in Chad's arms. He now carried her before the gates of the Moon Kingdom. There he met the queen's royal guards.
"Who goes there?" A young man demanded, lifting a lantern.
The light revealed the figure of a man, carrying a beautiful girl in his arms. Although the boy's attire was torn and dirty, he was unmistakably of the noble class. The girl in his arms wore a lovely flame colored dress and the guards recognized her as the Princess of Mars. Until now they had only viewed her from a distance.
"I need to see Queen Serenity. Mars has been destroyed." Chad said, lifting his head high.
The men stepped back in awe and with fear. "Of- Of course, go right ahead. If you wait, I can get you a proper escort." The young man stammered.
"That won't be necessary. I can carry the Princess." Chad said. He bowed his head at the guards, and kept walking towards the palace.
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Princess Raye awoke inside a room that was not hers. The four-poster canopy bed had white and pink curtains, and those were definitely not the colors that adorned her bedroom. She sat up, realizing she was in the Moon Kingdom. She gasped, and woke up the sleeping figure next to her bed.
"Princess?" Chad asked sleepily. He opened his eyes and looked at her fuzzily, then shook his head and stood up at attention. "Princess! You have to rest, please lay back down."
"Chad, please don't call me Princess- you know Raye is fine. I want to get up." She said, waving his arms away.
She threw her legs over the side of the bed and stood up. All of a sudden the past events of the day struck her at full force, and she collapsed back onto her bed. Chad saw this and ran to her side.
"Raye..." he said gently.
"NO! You just leave me alone! You left my Grandfather to die! You should have stayed with him! You-you should have done something!" she sobbed uncontrollably.
He wrapped his arms around her, and she tried to push him away- but he held her tighter. She finally gave up and allowed him to hold her as she sobbed into his shoulder. He gently stroked her hair, waiting patiently for her to calm down. After a few minutes, he finally spoke.
"Raye..." he began softly. "We've been friends for as long as I can remember. I've sworn to protect you and have done so ever since. Don't push me away when we need each other most." He said, holding her at arms-length. Raye saw the tears glistening in his eyes and realized he had taken this just as hard as she had.
Raye nodded, and clung to him again. Having a friend there with her was just what she needed. Before she could say this, Chad was speaking to her again.
"Raye, your Grandfather gave me a message to give to you. He knew his fate Raye, and he wouldn't accept my help. He told me to tell you that he loved you. You were the most important thing in his life, you know. And..." Chad hesitated suddenly, and then began again. "And you are the most important thing in mine..." He ended softly.
Raye pushed herself back so she could look him full in the face again. He was looking at her shyly, and desperately, and there was another emotion there as well... She gasped! It was love!
"Chad..." Raye began.
"No, Raye, stop." Chad said, placing his finger to her lips. "I have loved you for a very long time, but I have kept it a secret." He looked down, and took a deep breath before he met her eyes again. "Raye, I know we are already betrothed, but I have come to realize something. I would love you even if we weren't supposed to marry. I love you so much that I want you to be happy not matter what. It doesn't matter what happens to me." He paused, then continued on reluctantly. "Raye, I'm giving you the chance to back out of the marriage promise. I swear to you I will not object. If we were married, I would want you to love me because you want to- not because you have to. My happiness means nothing without yours." Chad said, staring straight into her eyes.
Raye looked down, a fierce blush blooming in her cheeks. She had never thought of their betrothal like that before. She always had thought it would be fun to be married to Chad, but she never had thought about it as love. She felt strange and sort of detached. She realized she didn't love Chad... But she didn't love any other either. She suddenly had another scary thought. Was she capable of love?
"Chad..." Raye began gently, not wanting to hurt him. He looked up at her with hope in his eyes, and she gulped, but continued on bravely. "I must admit that I do not love you." She paused, and then plunged on, not trusting herself to look him in the eyes. "Truthfully, I have never thought of marrying for love. The opportunity was never given to me. I'm sorry I cannot return your love, but do not be angry with me. I do not love anyone else either." She said looking down.
This wasn't exactly the conversation she was used to having with Chad. It made her feel funny, sort of fluttery. She also had a strange feeling that she was being untruthful.
Chad looked at her sadly, but nodded in acceptance. He stood up, and placed a hand to her cheek. "I could never be angry with you Raye." He murmured softly. He turned and left the room to give Raye her privacy, but stood guard at the door, ready for anyone who would dare to disturb her.
Raye watched him as he walked away, chiding herself for being so cruel- but she couldn't lie. She leaned back onto the pillows and closed her eyes. Before too long, she was dreaming of the lover she so wished for. He came in the form of Chad, but she would not remember this... After all, her psychic abilities didn't always kick in.
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Raye was awakened when a young woman entered her room. She opened her eyes to see Princess Serena above her, gazing at her worriedly.
"Serena? What are you doing here?" Raye asked sleepily.
"I just came to check on you, and to tell you about the meeting today for the scouts and my mother. The guardians will also be attending." Serena said, sitting on Raye's bed.
"Serena..." Raye choked. "I've never been more scared in my life. My-my Grandpa... He-he's..." she broke off there and began to sob.
Serena looked shocked for a moment, but her look quickly became sympathetic, and she wrapped her arms around her friend.
"Shhhh..." she soothed. "I know, Chad told me- but there is more to tell... Everything will be revealed at the meeting, but you have to be strong. You are not the only one who has lost a loved one..." Serena said softly.
Raye backed off and looked at Serena, tears still streaming down her cheeks. "You mean- the girls too?" She asked, trailing off. She gasped as Serena nodded sadly.
"There is too much to tell now. You must get ready. We meet in a couple of hours." Serena said, getting up to leave. She paused at the door, and smiled. "You know," she said, almost laughing. "Your guardian is very possessive. He refused to leave your side while you were unconscious. It was sort of sweet really. He cares for you very much."
Raye nodded and smiled, wiping away her tears. Serena grinned back and left Raye to get ready.
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Raye and Chad sat at a huge table in Queen Serenity's chambers, waiting for her begin the meeting. Princess Venus, Mercury, and Jupiter were also present with their own guardians. The men hovered over their princesses, their love evident on their faces. It was a feeling Raye had yet to experience... However, it was easy to see she wasn't the only one suffering out of the group.
Princess Lita's once determined, yet cheerful face was now slack and beaten. A handsome young man stood next to her, obviously worried for troubled lover. (Much later Raye would try to figure out why the man had looked so familiar, but unsurprisingly, the vision would elude her.) Princess Mina's usual vivacious expression had been replaced with a look of incredible pain and fear. She clung to her guardian, Anthony, for support. She feared she would lose control any moment.
Princess Mercury sat staring into nothing, her face a mask of confusion and disbelief. Her beautiful features were worn and her eyes were distant and unfocused. She had seen the most horrors and had even witnessed her parents' deaths at the hands of Queen Beryl. Mercury Knight had barely been able to transport her away before she herself was destroyed. Gregory now stood behind her, his arms placed on her shoulders in a gentle attempt to console her.
Raye wore similar expressions, although she did not know it. Chad sat next to her, holding her hand, like any friend would. She was thankful he was there with her. She had known the other princesses for a very long time, but Chad had been with her since the beginning. Raye broke out of her thoughts as Queen Serenity began to speak.
"As you all know, our alliance is under siege by a very powerful force. We were all taken by surprise at this unexpected attack. Admittedly our countries were primarily focused on expanding the Silver Millennium for when Serenity was married. We wanted to make sure you all would inherit the best this universe had to offer." She paused, and then went on. "As you know, your planets suffered the worst because they were in the direct path of the Moon. This new energy is still coming, and we believe there is no stopping it." Queen Serenity said sadly.
"Queen Beryl is leading this amazing attack. She controls a powerful energy called the Negaforce that originated in another dimension we have begun to call the Negaverse. This dimension can survive only by the constant collection of life energy. Queen Beryl is tired of collecting human and animal life energy, however, and is seeking a new source: my Silver Imperium Crystal." Queen Serenity shook her head in dismay, and began again.
"If she succeeds in taking it from me, the crystal will supply her with enough power to keep the Negaverse running forever. She will have the power to take control of the whole universe, including the Silver Millennium. She has already destroyed my strongest allies and their respective planets." A single tear rolled down the queen's face.
"Long ago, your parents and I had sealed her inside of the Negaverse, preventing her from coming again to this world... But somehow she has come by enough energy to escape from her prison. I fear there is no stopping her..." Serenity said sadly, but she grew hopeful.
"I need your help, princesses. I believe your power could defeat the Negaforce. I was hoping you would honor the alliance of your families and fight with me when the time comes to face Queen Beryl. I hope you can help me to avenge your families." Queen Serenity finished.
The four princesses stared at her for a moment, digesting this new piece of history. Princess Jupiter was the first to speak.
"I will help you defeat this evil my queen- on behalf of Jupiter, and my parents!" she said angrily. Tears spouted from her eyes, but she made no move to wipe them away.
"I will help too." Princess Mercury said standing up, her eyes also filled with tears. "The power of Mercury will aid the Moon in the fight."
Mina also stood up, though remained silent. Her eyes were over-bright and her face was grave as she nodded. Raye glanced at her sadly and followed suit.
"I did not see this Beryl in person, but I did in a vision. She is very powerful, but I will help. The fire of Mars will defeat this evil, and I will restore my planet when the battle is won! I will make sure my Grandfather did not die in vain!" Raye said vehemently, crying again. She wiped her tears away quickly and raised her chin in obvious defiance.
This touching scene was broken when the room's doors opened with a dim boom. Prince Darien entered, his face expression worried. He bowed respectively before the queen, and asked her forgiveness for interrupting at such a bad time. Queen Serenity nodded and motioned for him to get up. Serena, unable to contain herself any longer, raced into his arms. He forgot his mission for a moment and held her close, wishing to kiss her, but knowing it would be disrespectful in front of the queen. He stepped back out of her embrace and smiled at her, but his look became grim again as he spoke.
"Forgive me again for my rude entrance, Your Highness. I have come with the utmost urgency." Darien said apologetically.
"Please proceed young prince." Queen Serenity said.
"My queen, Earth is under attack. An enormous energy has invaded my planet, led by a Queen Beryl. My forces can't hold up much longer, and I fear Earth will be defeated soon." Darien said breathlessly.
"And what would the Prince of Earth wish from the Moon?" Serenity asked, leveling him with a soft gaze.
"Your assistance, your grace. I need champions for a mission behind enemy lines. We will attempt to assassinate the traitorous generals Malachite, Nephrite, Zoicite, and Jedaite. I loved and respected them once, but no longer. They now lead Beryl's armies and are equipped with the many secrets of the kingdom. I fear the Earth Palace itself with soon be breached." Darien said, bowing his head in shame.
Queen Serenity shook her head sadly. She knew if the Earth fell, the Moon would come soon after. "Prince, I am afraid I cannot help you. I have no champions to spare. I must prepare my soldiers for any possible attack. I cannot leave my borders unprotected." She said.
Darien's head shot up in shocked dismay. Queen Serenity was his last hope with all the planets gone! What was he to do now? But it was the mysterious hero of Jupiter that stepped forward first.
"My queen, I wish to aid Prince Darien in his quest. The Earth is also a part of the Silver Millennium and demands protection as well. I will fight for it in the name of Jupiter." He stopped suddenly and looked at his princess. She stared at him with frightened eyes. "That is," he began again, "if my Princess will give me leave to do so."
Queen Serenity looked at him with amazement and pride. He was very brave, a man to be admired.
"Will you Princess Lita?" she asked.
Princess Jupiter stared at her protector in shock, not believing he could leave her. The fearful look soon left her though, and she nodded deftly, knowing the Earth needed him. He would be of much better use fighting with Prince Darien.
"I wish to help too, if I may be given the leave of my princess." Venus Knight said, standing also. Princess Mina expected this, and though tears fell from her eyes, she nodded as well.
Mercury Knight came to his feet and offered his services only to be given permission with the same reluctance from Princess Mercury. Only Mars Knight remained silent, not wanting to leave the side of his beloved Raye, but also wishing to help. Raye stared at him, wanting him to say no, and to stay with her, but she knew he wanted to volunteer. She suddenly lashed out of him, letting her fiery temper take over.
"Well, you might as well go too!" she snapped, tears filling her eyes. "I know you want to! Don't worry about me. I'll be fine!" she cried, and before he could say anything, she fled from the room.
Chad stared after her helplessly, but nodded at Darien, letting him know he would join them in the quest.
"Thank you all," Darien said gratefully. "You all will be rewarded handsomely. I know this mission will save the Silver Millennium and the planets will once again be reunited." Darien proclaimed bravely.
The knights only nodded, knowing this mission was very dangerous. They also knew there wasn't much left of their home planets to unite with the Earth and the Moon now- but it didn't matter. They had to help preserve what was left of the world they lived in.
"It's settled then," Serenity said. "I will hold a ball tonight to wish you farewell. I imagine you must leave immediately?" She nodded at Darien's affirmative expression. "Well, I will see you all again this evening. Farewell."
The four men nodded silently, and turned away to their chambers to contemplate their fate.
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Princess Raye looked out at the ball around her. Everyone was masked and beautiful, twirling round and round as if they had not a care in the world. She smiled as Serena danced gracefully with Prince Darien before he went to battle. He was dressed as his alter ego Tuxedo Mask and looked very handsome.
The other Princesses were also enjoying their last moments with their guardians. Princess Mercury had disappeared a while ago with Gregory. Raye suspected they were in the garden, saying their own private good-byes. Princess Amy hated to be cry in front of everyone, and Raye had no doubt there would be an abundance of tears that night.
"Princess Raye, " a voice broke through her thoughts. She turned to see a handsome masked man in a black tuxedo. He held his hand out to her and lifted his mask so she could see his face. He smiled shyly. "May I have this dance?" Chad asked.
Raye smiled, feeling a touch of shame for blowing up at him earlier. She nodded and took his hand, allowing him to lead her onto the dance floor. He held her close and she felt her heart begin to pound as he twirled her lightly across the floor. It was easy to forget where she was when she danced, but dancing with Chad had never felt like this before. She felt as if she were in a dream- one so delicate a mere word could destroy everything and cause her to lose the memory of it forever.
When the music ended, Chad led her out into the royal garden. He stopped only to pick the loveliest flower he could find: a rose as red as fresh blood. He held it out to her and she took it, being careful not to be pricked by the thorns. They sat in silence for a moment before Chad spoke up.
"Raye, do you really wish for me to go? Say the word and I will stay. I only want to do what pleases you." He paused, embarrassed, and then continued on shyly. "I hate to be separated from you anyway. I hope you don't feel as if I am abandoning you." He said earnestly. He was startled by Raye's soft laughter.
"Oh Chad, I want you to go. You have as much duty to protect the Silver Millennium as I do. We will be together- fighting the same battle for the right reasons. I will not be by your side, but I will be in your heart always." She said softly, trying to sound cheerful, but didn't make it.
"I cannot bear to be apart from you Raye. It's so hard accepting the fact that I might never see you again. Imagining every moment I'm going to spend without you is more frightening than death itself. I just need to know- if I come back, will you be mine forever? Will you still be waiting?" He pleaded, falling to his knees. Raye stared at him, stunned, then managed to find her voice.
"Chad, please don't ask me that. You make it sound as if you believe you're never coming back. You had better return to me! I can't live my life without my best friend." She paused for a moment. "I'm sorry, but I can't pledge my heart to you Chad. I will wait as long as I can, but anything can happen in time." Her eyes filled with tears.
What was she saying? How could she be so cruel? She shuddered and looked away. She was horrible. She was a horrible friend and a poor excuse for a woman. Why did everything always come out so wrong?
Chad looked so hurt, she ran away before he could respond. She left him there to spend his last night alone. It would become a night she would regret for the rest of her life.
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Chad had just finished slipping a small note under Raye's door when Gregory greeted him in the hallway. Chad nodded back, before gazing sadly at her closed door. He shook his head and turned around. He walked slowly through the rest of the palace, feeling an enormous depression sweep over him. He thought of the possibility of never seeing this place again, never seeing Raye again, and he felt his heart fly even further into despair.
He was nearing the transport unit when a figure off to the side caught his eye. He stared at the girl in the lovely red dress with her hands folded in front of her. She was looking around apprehensively when her eyes finally settled on him. They flashed with an imperceptible emotion and he gasped in surprise. His princess had come to say goodbye to him! He smiled as she ran towards him, only to stop short and stare directly into his eyes, looking unsure. Then, without a word, she leapt into his arms and planted a firm kiss on his lips, stunning him completely!
He was motionless for a few moments, but when she didn't pull away, his arms raised to pull her close. She pressed into his embrace even further and he plunged his hands into her soft raven hair as the kiss deepened. The idea of kissing her was something he had only imagined, but actually experiencing it was a far greater fantasy. She ran her hands through his long hair and pressed her lips gently against his again and again. She felt a twinge of dismay when he pulled away and looked at her.
"Raye..." He said, looking at her strangely. "Not that I'm complaining, but what was that about?"
Raye laughed and tears spouted from her eyes. "I've always wanted to kiss you Chad, and I may never have another chance to do it. Sometimes you don't get second chances, and I finally realized this. I wanted to say goodbye, and I wanted to pledge myself to you. I have always loved you, I've just been to afraid to admit it." She lowered her eyes shyly. "You were right Chad... you are the only one for me, and when you come back, my love will have its chance to grow and match yours." she said, her eyes finally overflowing.
Chad's heart soared at her honest words and reached forward only to give her another passionate kiss that left them both breathless. He parted from her as he heard the urgent call behind him. He frowned and turned to say goodbye, but Raye stopped him.
"No, don't say goodbye. Only say what you know I want to hear," she said. Tears were now streaming steadily down her face. He wiped them away, knowing she wouldn't mind now.
"I love you Raye. Always and forever." He said. She smiled and nodded. He embraced her once more, and then turned and entered the transport.
He was beamed to Earth in a moment, following his friends to battle. Raye watched him go, and felt a part of her go with him.
"He'll come back." Serena said, coming up to her from behind. She placed a gentle hand on Raye's shoulder. "They'll be safe."
Raye closed her eyes and nodded. A solitary tear slipped from beneath her lid and rolled down her cheek. She never saw him alive in that time again.
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Raye suddenly opened her eyes to find herself back in front of the Gates of Time. Chad stood next to her, tears streaming down his face. His eyes looked older now, and very wise.
"So that is now the story goes." Sailor Pluto said. "You were killed in combat trying to rescue both your friend Gregory and Sailor Mars's grandfather from the Negaverse. You went after Beryl when she transformed Gregory into one of the Seven Shadows. Though you fought bravely, your power alone was no match for hers, and she defeated you in a short time. You were a valiant and powerful warrior Mars Knight- always ready to fight for love and honor."
"Your princess took your death very hard. Although Raye does not remember your love, she did care for you then, and she cares for you now. Your death, as well as those of the other Knights, weakened the forces of the Sailor Soldiers. Queen Serenity was forced to destroy her own kingdom. She sent her daughter and her court to the Earth to live once again in the distant future." Sailor Pluto leveled Chad with a steady gaze. "Queen Beryl is now dead, but the evil of the Negaverse still remains. I am giving you the chance to fight again if you are willing. Will you accept this challenge?" Sailor Pluto asked.
"I will." Chad said without any hesitation at all.
Sailor Pluto smiled at him and opened her hand only to reveal the stone that had started it all.
"This is your power stone and will be used in your transformation. To activate it- shout 'Mars Planet Power.' You will then become the long lost warrior, Mars Knight. Protect your princess, Mars Knight. After all, you are still her guardian." Sailor Pluto said softly, and then turned to Raye.
Raye stood there, shocked, and changed as well. She felt all these new emotions for Chad the memories had awakened. She had noticed her reactions to her emotions before, and decided it was best to keep her mouth shut before she said something she didn't mean. Her lips still tingled though, remembering her kiss with Chad on the Moon.
"Princess Raye, please help Mars Knight fit in with the Sailor Soldiers. No one knows the ropes better than you. Give the girls my love. We will see each other again." Sailor Pluto said mysteriously.
Raye nodded, and with a flash, she felt herself being transported again. This time, however, she was hand in hand with her newfound guardian.
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Forgotten Secrets of Mars
A lone figure of a woman hovered high above a red planet. Her scarlet eyes glowered at its beautiful surface, filled with a strange jealousy. She began to descend upon it, laughing wickedly as she did so. Four generals followed her, all surrounded by horrible monsters ready for the attack.
"Watch out King of Mars. You are old, and you are weak. Nothing can stop me- not your army, not your court, or even that lovely granddaughter of yours." Queen Beryl shouted at the Fire Palace beneath her.
Soldiers began to pour out of the wrought iron gates below and were soon met by the gruesome army from above. They attacked them viciously, showing no mercy. The soldiers were quickly overwhelmed for the numbers of their enemies were too much to bear. A lone figure glared up at the wicked queen from his place on the ground. He was small by stature, but regal and calm. Power radiated from his old body, revealing he was still a force to be reckoned with-but he was no fool. Beryl would win this battle.
"Sire!" Came a voice by his side.
The king turned to see his granddaughter's guardian, Chadwick, kneeling before him. The king acknowledged his presence with a nod and motioned for him to get up. The young man nodded, and rose to his full height.
"Sire, what should I do? Should I remain with you here on the battle field?" Chad asked desperately, wanting to serve his king.
The king smiled softly, a touch of pride on his lips- but he shook his head. "No, Chadwick. You must go protect my granddaughter. I fear she is in trouble, and she is our planet's only hope. This enemy is too strong for our army and I know we will not last much longer. Find her and take her to the Moon Kingdom. I entrust you with her life." The King said calmly, but regret filled his old eyes.
Mars Knight stared at him with disbelief. He shook his head slowly, not quite able to accept it. Mars was going to be destroyed?
"But Sire, what about you? I must get you out of here too! The planet needs you!" Chadwick pleaded.
"I must stay and protect Mars with all the power I have left. Now get Princess Raye off this planet and to the Moon!" King Mars commanded, his temper- much like his granddaughters- finally rearing its fiery head. However, a strange sadness was in his voice as well.
Chad backed away, and nodded. He bowed low, and looked back at the old king with such misery, he winced.
"And Chad..." he began softly. Chad looked at him. "Tell my granddaughter I love her. Have a safe journey, and please protect her."
"Yes, sire." Chad complied, feeling the tears rise.
He rose to his feet and ran quickly in the direction of the palace without looking back. The king turned back towards the woman who hovered above him at a distance. Her four generals stood around her, grinning wickedly.
"All right you old witch," he shouted, drawing his sword. "Let's get this over with."
"Yes, old man, and it will be over soon. But don't worry, we will find some sort of use for you." Queen Beryl said, her dark purple lips forming into a horrible smile.
Queen Beryl began to laugh as the old king charged towards her, ready to welcome his death.
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Chad was running through the palace halls, trying desperately to find the princess. The paintings of the fiery mountains and the passionate lovers of Mars loomed above him as he reached the throne room. Off to the right was the palace's fire shrine, and to the left, the Princesses chambers.
'Which way do I go?' He thought wildly. The palace began to shake and he had to catch his balance before he fell. Screams began to pour out of the Sacred Fire Room.
"Princess Raye!" he shouted and ran for the door with all the speed he could muster.
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Raye ran for the door, trying desperately to get to it before the floor gave way beneath her. She dimly heard herself screaming incoherently about her vision.
"Beryl! It's Beryl! Oh please! I must stop her!" She cried over and over again as she tried to reach the door.
The floor was crumbling beneath her and she tried to quicken her pace. The Sacred Fire roared behind her, warning her to go faster. She screamed as the floor fell away and she began to fall. Her hand clutched desperately for something to hold onto. Suddenly, she felt strong fingers grasp her wrist and she looked up to find Chadwick, her guardian.
"I've got you! Oh Raye, please hold on!" Mars Knight screamed fearfully.
"Don't let go of me!" She screamed back helplessly, gaping at the dark abyss beneath her.
"I won't, I'll never let you fall..." He said lovingly.
He pulled her with all of his strength, feeling his own feet begin to slip forward. Raye cried out as his fingers almost slipped from her wrist, but he gritted his teeth and held on, bracing himself again, and pulling back.
He lifted her until she was safely beside him. He wanted to make sure she was all right, but there was no time. He grabbed her hand and yanked her towards the door. He led her through the falling ruins, using his powers often to destroy the falling rubble around them. When they were finally outside, he stopped her.
"Princess, we have to leave now! We must go to the Moon." Mars Knight said, taking her hand.
"Wait!" Princess Raye exclaimed. "What about my grandfather? We can't just leave him!"
Chad looked down, unable to answer his princess' request.
"Chad! What's the matter with you?" Raye demanded suspiciously. She suddenly became afraid. "Where's my Grandpa?"
"He is fighting Queen Beryl..." Chad murmured, tears choking his voice. "I've been instructed to take you to the Moon. He told me he most likely wouldn't be following..." Chad said with a lot of reluctance.
Raye stared at him for a moment, her jaw quivering, then she exploded.
"NO! I'm not going anywhere! Not without my Grandpa!" She screamed, crying uncontrollably.
Chad reached for her, trying to bring her close, but she evaded his hands and ran towards the ruins of her kingdom. She raced passed piles of bodies belonging to men who had died bravely fighting for her planet and she looked away in horror and regret. She imagined the body of her grandfather among them and she ran faster. She had to save him. She had to!
She was halfway across the battlefield before Chad caught up with her and tackled her to the ground. He lifted her up and dragged her away as her tears and screams nearly tore his heart in two. He silenced his ears from her begging sobs and listened instead to the thunderous cries of grief from his own heart. She tried again to pull away, but tripped and fell to the ground in a struggling heap.
Chad took her in his arms, and held her tight as she beat his chest with her small hands ineffectually. He closed his eyes and transported them away before she could say anymore. He turned just in time to watch the palace crumble into nothing. The tears finally began to fall as he realized that somewhere down there, laid the body of his beloved king and the ruined memories of his glorious planet...
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Raye had fainted during the transport and had collapsed in Chad's arms. He now carried her before the gates of the Moon Kingdom. There he met the queen's royal guards.
"Who goes there?" A young man demanded, lifting a lantern.
The light revealed the figure of a man, carrying a beautiful girl in his arms. Although the boy's attire was torn and dirty, he was unmistakably of the noble class. The girl in his arms wore a lovely flame colored dress and the guards recognized her as the Princess of Mars. Until now they had only viewed her from a distance.
"I need to see Queen Serenity. Mars has been destroyed." Chad said, lifting his head high.
The men stepped back in awe and with fear. "Of- Of course, go right ahead. If you wait, I can get you a proper escort." The young man stammered.
"That won't be necessary. I can carry the Princess." Chad said. He bowed his head at the guards, and kept walking towards the palace.
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Princess Raye awoke inside a room that was not hers. The four-poster canopy bed had white and pink curtains, and those were definitely not the colors that adorned her bedroom. She sat up, realizing she was in the Moon Kingdom. She gasped, and woke up the sleeping figure next to her bed.
"Princess?" Chad asked sleepily. He opened his eyes and looked at her fuzzily, then shook his head and stood up at attention. "Princess! You have to rest, please lay back down."
"Chad, please don't call me Princess- you know Raye is fine. I want to get up." She said, waving his arms away.
She threw her legs over the side of the bed and stood up. All of a sudden the past events of the day struck her at full force, and she collapsed back onto her bed. Chad saw this and ran to her side.
"Raye..." he said gently.
"NO! You just leave me alone! You left my Grandfather to die! You should have stayed with him! You-you should have done something!" she sobbed uncontrollably.
He wrapped his arms around her, and she tried to push him away- but he held her tighter. She finally gave up and allowed him to hold her as she sobbed into his shoulder. He gently stroked her hair, waiting patiently for her to calm down. After a few minutes, he finally spoke.
"Raye..." he began softly. "We've been friends for as long as I can remember. I've sworn to protect you and have done so ever since. Don't push me away when we need each other most." He said, holding her at arms-length. Raye saw the tears glistening in his eyes and realized he had taken this just as hard as she had.
Raye nodded, and clung to him again. Having a friend there with her was just what she needed. Before she could say this, Chad was speaking to her again.
"Raye, your Grandfather gave me a message to give to you. He knew his fate Raye, and he wouldn't accept my help. He told me to tell you that he loved you. You were the most important thing in his life, you know. And..." Chad hesitated suddenly, and then began again. "And you are the most important thing in mine..." He ended softly.
Raye pushed herself back so she could look him full in the face again. He was looking at her shyly, and desperately, and there was another emotion there as well... She gasped! It was love!
"Chad..." Raye began.
"No, Raye, stop." Chad said, placing his finger to her lips. "I have loved you for a very long time, but I have kept it a secret." He looked down, and took a deep breath before he met her eyes again. "Raye, I know we are already betrothed, but I have come to realize something. I would love you even if we weren't supposed to marry. I love you so much that I want you to be happy not matter what. It doesn't matter what happens to me." He paused, then continued on reluctantly. "Raye, I'm giving you the chance to back out of the marriage promise. I swear to you I will not object. If we were married, I would want you to love me because you want to- not because you have to. My happiness means nothing without yours." Chad said, staring straight into her eyes.
Raye looked down, a fierce blush blooming in her cheeks. She had never thought of their betrothal like that before. She always had thought it would be fun to be married to Chad, but she never had thought about it as love. She felt strange and sort of detached. She realized she didn't love Chad... But she didn't love any other either. She suddenly had another scary thought. Was she capable of love?
"Chad..." Raye began gently, not wanting to hurt him. He looked up at her with hope in his eyes, and she gulped, but continued on bravely. "I must admit that I do not love you." She paused, and then plunged on, not trusting herself to look him in the eyes. "Truthfully, I have never thought of marrying for love. The opportunity was never given to me. I'm sorry I cannot return your love, but do not be angry with me. I do not love anyone else either." She said looking down.
This wasn't exactly the conversation she was used to having with Chad. It made her feel funny, sort of fluttery. She also had a strange feeling that she was being untruthful.
Chad looked at her sadly, but nodded in acceptance. He stood up, and placed a hand to her cheek. "I could never be angry with you Raye." He murmured softly. He turned and left the room to give Raye her privacy, but stood guard at the door, ready for anyone who would dare to disturb her.
Raye watched him as he walked away, chiding herself for being so cruel- but she couldn't lie. She leaned back onto the pillows and closed her eyes. Before too long, she was dreaming of the lover she so wished for. He came in the form of Chad, but she would not remember this... After all, her psychic abilities didn't always kick in.
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Raye was awakened when a young woman entered her room. She opened her eyes to see Princess Serena above her, gazing at her worriedly.
"Serena? What are you doing here?" Raye asked sleepily.
"I just came to check on you, and to tell you about the meeting today for the scouts and my mother. The guardians will also be attending." Serena said, sitting on Raye's bed.
"Serena..." Raye choked. "I've never been more scared in my life. My-my Grandpa... He-he's..." she broke off there and began to sob.
Serena looked shocked for a moment, but her look quickly became sympathetic, and she wrapped her arms around her friend.
"Shhhh..." she soothed. "I know, Chad told me- but there is more to tell... Everything will be revealed at the meeting, but you have to be strong. You are not the only one who has lost a loved one..." Serena said softly.
Raye backed off and looked at Serena, tears still streaming down her cheeks. "You mean- the girls too?" She asked, trailing off. She gasped as Serena nodded sadly.
"There is too much to tell now. You must get ready. We meet in a couple of hours." Serena said, getting up to leave. She paused at the door, and smiled. "You know," she said, almost laughing. "Your guardian is very possessive. He refused to leave your side while you were unconscious. It was sort of sweet really. He cares for you very much."
Raye nodded and smiled, wiping away her tears. Serena grinned back and left Raye to get ready.
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Raye and Chad sat at a huge table in Queen Serenity's chambers, waiting for her begin the meeting. Princess Venus, Mercury, and Jupiter were also present with their own guardians. The men hovered over their princesses, their love evident on their faces. It was a feeling Raye had yet to experience... However, it was easy to see she wasn't the only one suffering out of the group.
Princess Lita's once determined, yet cheerful face was now slack and beaten. A handsome young man stood next to her, obviously worried for troubled lover. (Much later Raye would try to figure out why the man had looked so familiar, but unsurprisingly, the vision would elude her.) Princess Mina's usual vivacious expression had been replaced with a look of incredible pain and fear. She clung to her guardian, Anthony, for support. She feared she would lose control any moment.
Princess Mercury sat staring into nothing, her face a mask of confusion and disbelief. Her beautiful features were worn and her eyes were distant and unfocused. She had seen the most horrors and had even witnessed her parents' deaths at the hands of Queen Beryl. Mercury Knight had barely been able to transport her away before she herself was destroyed. Gregory now stood behind her, his arms placed on her shoulders in a gentle attempt to console her.
Raye wore similar expressions, although she did not know it. Chad sat next to her, holding her hand, like any friend would. She was thankful he was there with her. She had known the other princesses for a very long time, but Chad had been with her since the beginning. Raye broke out of her thoughts as Queen Serenity began to speak.
"As you all know, our alliance is under siege by a very powerful force. We were all taken by surprise at this unexpected attack. Admittedly our countries were primarily focused on expanding the Silver Millennium for when Serenity was married. We wanted to make sure you all would inherit the best this universe had to offer." She paused, and then went on. "As you know, your planets suffered the worst because they were in the direct path of the Moon. This new energy is still coming, and we believe there is no stopping it." Queen Serenity said sadly.
"Queen Beryl is leading this amazing attack. She controls a powerful energy called the Negaforce that originated in another dimension we have begun to call the Negaverse. This dimension can survive only by the constant collection of life energy. Queen Beryl is tired of collecting human and animal life energy, however, and is seeking a new source: my Silver Imperium Crystal." Queen Serenity shook her head in dismay, and began again.
"If she succeeds in taking it from me, the crystal will supply her with enough power to keep the Negaverse running forever. She will have the power to take control of the whole universe, including the Silver Millennium. She has already destroyed my strongest allies and their respective planets." A single tear rolled down the queen's face.
"Long ago, your parents and I had sealed her inside of the Negaverse, preventing her from coming again to this world... But somehow she has come by enough energy to escape from her prison. I fear there is no stopping her..." Serenity said sadly, but she grew hopeful.
"I need your help, princesses. I believe your power could defeat the Negaforce. I was hoping you would honor the alliance of your families and fight with me when the time comes to face Queen Beryl. I hope you can help me to avenge your families." Queen Serenity finished.
The four princesses stared at her for a moment, digesting this new piece of history. Princess Jupiter was the first to speak.
"I will help you defeat this evil my queen- on behalf of Jupiter, and my parents!" she said angrily. Tears spouted from her eyes, but she made no move to wipe them away.
"I will help too." Princess Mercury said standing up, her eyes also filled with tears. "The power of Mercury will aid the Moon in the fight."
Mina also stood up, though remained silent. Her eyes were over-bright and her face was grave as she nodded. Raye glanced at her sadly and followed suit.
"I did not see this Beryl in person, but I did in a vision. She is very powerful, but I will help. The fire of Mars will defeat this evil, and I will restore my planet when the battle is won! I will make sure my Grandfather did not die in vain!" Raye said vehemently, crying again. She wiped her tears away quickly and raised her chin in obvious defiance.
This touching scene was broken when the room's doors opened with a dim boom. Prince Darien entered, his face expression worried. He bowed respectively before the queen, and asked her forgiveness for interrupting at such a bad time. Queen Serenity nodded and motioned for him to get up. Serena, unable to contain herself any longer, raced into his arms. He forgot his mission for a moment and held her close, wishing to kiss her, but knowing it would be disrespectful in front of the queen. He stepped back out of her embrace and smiled at her, but his look became grim again as he spoke.
"Forgive me again for my rude entrance, Your Highness. I have come with the utmost urgency." Darien said apologetically.
"Please proceed young prince." Queen Serenity said.
"My queen, Earth is under attack. An enormous energy has invaded my planet, led by a Queen Beryl. My forces can't hold up much longer, and I fear Earth will be defeated soon." Darien said breathlessly.
"And what would the Prince of Earth wish from the Moon?" Serenity asked, leveling him with a soft gaze.
"Your assistance, your grace. I need champions for a mission behind enemy lines. We will attempt to assassinate the traitorous generals Malachite, Nephrite, Zoicite, and Jedaite. I loved and respected them once, but no longer. They now lead Beryl's armies and are equipped with the many secrets of the kingdom. I fear the Earth Palace itself with soon be breached." Darien said, bowing his head in shame.
Queen Serenity shook her head sadly. She knew if the Earth fell, the Moon would come soon after. "Prince, I am afraid I cannot help you. I have no champions to spare. I must prepare my soldiers for any possible attack. I cannot leave my borders unprotected." She said.
Darien's head shot up in shocked dismay. Queen Serenity was his last hope with all the planets gone! What was he to do now? But it was the mysterious hero of Jupiter that stepped forward first.
"My queen, I wish to aid Prince Darien in his quest. The Earth is also a part of the Silver Millennium and demands protection as well. I will fight for it in the name of Jupiter." He stopped suddenly and looked at his princess. She stared at him with frightened eyes. "That is," he began again, "if my Princess will give me leave to do so."
Queen Serenity looked at him with amazement and pride. He was very brave, a man to be admired.
"Will you Princess Lita?" she asked.
Princess Jupiter stared at her protector in shock, not believing he could leave her. The fearful look soon left her though, and she nodded deftly, knowing the Earth needed him. He would be of much better use fighting with Prince Darien.
"I wish to help too, if I may be given the leave of my princess." Venus Knight said, standing also. Princess Mina expected this, and though tears fell from her eyes, she nodded as well.
Mercury Knight came to his feet and offered his services only to be given permission with the same reluctance from Princess Mercury. Only Mars Knight remained silent, not wanting to leave the side of his beloved Raye, but also wishing to help. Raye stared at him, wanting him to say no, and to stay with her, but she knew he wanted to volunteer. She suddenly lashed out of him, letting her fiery temper take over.
"Well, you might as well go too!" she snapped, tears filling her eyes. "I know you want to! Don't worry about me. I'll be fine!" she cried, and before he could say anything, she fled from the room.
Chad stared after her helplessly, but nodded at Darien, letting him know he would join them in the quest.
"Thank you all," Darien said gratefully. "You all will be rewarded handsomely. I know this mission will save the Silver Millennium and the planets will once again be reunited." Darien proclaimed bravely.
The knights only nodded, knowing this mission was very dangerous. They also knew there wasn't much left of their home planets to unite with the Earth and the Moon now- but it didn't matter. They had to help preserve what was left of the world they lived in.
"It's settled then," Serenity said. "I will hold a ball tonight to wish you farewell. I imagine you must leave immediately?" She nodded at Darien's affirmative expression. "Well, I will see you all again this evening. Farewell."
The four men nodded silently, and turned away to their chambers to contemplate their fate.
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Princess Raye looked out at the ball around her. Everyone was masked and beautiful, twirling round and round as if they had not a care in the world. She smiled as Serena danced gracefully with Prince Darien before he went to battle. He was dressed as his alter ego Tuxedo Mask and looked very handsome.
The other Princesses were also enjoying their last moments with their guardians. Princess Mercury had disappeared a while ago with Gregory. Raye suspected they were in the garden, saying their own private good-byes. Princess Amy hated to be cry in front of everyone, and Raye had no doubt there would be an abundance of tears that night.
"Princess Raye, " a voice broke through her thoughts. She turned to see a handsome masked man in a black tuxedo. He held his hand out to her and lifted his mask so she could see his face. He smiled shyly. "May I have this dance?" Chad asked.
Raye smiled, feeling a touch of shame for blowing up at him earlier. She nodded and took his hand, allowing him to lead her onto the dance floor. He held her close and she felt her heart begin to pound as he twirled her lightly across the floor. It was easy to forget where she was when she danced, but dancing with Chad had never felt like this before. She felt as if she were in a dream- one so delicate a mere word could destroy everything and cause her to lose the memory of it forever.
When the music ended, Chad led her out into the royal garden. He stopped only to pick the loveliest flower he could find: a rose as red as fresh blood. He held it out to her and she took it, being careful not to be pricked by the thorns. They sat in silence for a moment before Chad spoke up.
"Raye, do you really wish for me to go? Say the word and I will stay. I only want to do what pleases you." He paused, embarrassed, and then continued on shyly. "I hate to be separated from you anyway. I hope you don't feel as if I am abandoning you." He said earnestly. He was startled by Raye's soft laughter.
"Oh Chad, I want you to go. You have as much duty to protect the Silver Millennium as I do. We will be together- fighting the same battle for the right reasons. I will not be by your side, but I will be in your heart always." She said softly, trying to sound cheerful, but didn't make it.
"I cannot bear to be apart from you Raye. It's so hard accepting the fact that I might never see you again. Imagining every moment I'm going to spend without you is more frightening than death itself. I just need to know- if I come back, will you be mine forever? Will you still be waiting?" He pleaded, falling to his knees. Raye stared at him, stunned, then managed to find her voice.
"Chad, please don't ask me that. You make it sound as if you believe you're never coming back. You had better return to me! I can't live my life without my best friend." She paused for a moment. "I'm sorry, but I can't pledge my heart to you Chad. I will wait as long as I can, but anything can happen in time." Her eyes filled with tears.
What was she saying? How could she be so cruel? She shuddered and looked away. She was horrible. She was a horrible friend and a poor excuse for a woman. Why did everything always come out so wrong?
Chad looked so hurt, she ran away before he could respond. She left him there to spend his last night alone. It would become a night she would regret for the rest of her life.
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Chad had just finished slipping a small note under Raye's door when Gregory greeted him in the hallway. Chad nodded back, before gazing sadly at her closed door. He shook his head and turned around. He walked slowly through the rest of the palace, feeling an enormous depression sweep over him. He thought of the possibility of never seeing this place again, never seeing Raye again, and he felt his heart fly even further into despair.
He was nearing the transport unit when a figure off to the side caught his eye. He stared at the girl in the lovely red dress with her hands folded in front of her. She was looking around apprehensively when her eyes finally settled on him. They flashed with an imperceptible emotion and he gasped in surprise. His princess had come to say goodbye to him! He smiled as she ran towards him, only to stop short and stare directly into his eyes, looking unsure. Then, without a word, she leapt into his arms and planted a firm kiss on his lips, stunning him completely!
He was motionless for a few moments, but when she didn't pull away, his arms raised to pull her close. She pressed into his embrace even further and he plunged his hands into her soft raven hair as the kiss deepened. The idea of kissing her was something he had only imagined, but actually experiencing it was a far greater fantasy. She ran her hands through his long hair and pressed her lips gently against his again and again. She felt a twinge of dismay when he pulled away and looked at her.
"Raye..." He said, looking at her strangely. "Not that I'm complaining, but what was that about?"
Raye laughed and tears spouted from her eyes. "I've always wanted to kiss you Chad, and I may never have another chance to do it. Sometimes you don't get second chances, and I finally realized this. I wanted to say goodbye, and I wanted to pledge myself to you. I have always loved you, I've just been to afraid to admit it." She lowered her eyes shyly. "You were right Chad... you are the only one for me, and when you come back, my love will have its chance to grow and match yours." she said, her eyes finally overflowing.
Chad's heart soared at her honest words and reached forward only to give her another passionate kiss that left them both breathless. He parted from her as he heard the urgent call behind him. He frowned and turned to say goodbye, but Raye stopped him.
"No, don't say goodbye. Only say what you know I want to hear," she said. Tears were now streaming steadily down her face. He wiped them away, knowing she wouldn't mind now.
"I love you Raye. Always and forever." He said. She smiled and nodded. He embraced her once more, and then turned and entered the transport.
He was beamed to Earth in a moment, following his friends to battle. Raye watched him go, and felt a part of her go with him.
"He'll come back." Serena said, coming up to her from behind. She placed a gentle hand on Raye's shoulder. "They'll be safe."
Raye closed her eyes and nodded. A solitary tear slipped from beneath her lid and rolled down her cheek. She never saw him alive in that time again.
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Raye suddenly opened her eyes to find herself back in front of the Gates of Time. Chad stood next to her, tears streaming down his face. His eyes looked older now, and very wise.
"So that is now the story goes." Sailor Pluto said. "You were killed in combat trying to rescue both your friend Gregory and Sailor Mars's grandfather from the Negaverse. You went after Beryl when she transformed Gregory into one of the Seven Shadows. Though you fought bravely, your power alone was no match for hers, and she defeated you in a short time. You were a valiant and powerful warrior Mars Knight- always ready to fight for love and honor."
"Your princess took your death very hard. Although Raye does not remember your love, she did care for you then, and she cares for you now. Your death, as well as those of the other Knights, weakened the forces of the Sailor Soldiers. Queen Serenity was forced to destroy her own kingdom. She sent her daughter and her court to the Earth to live once again in the distant future." Sailor Pluto leveled Chad with a steady gaze. "Queen Beryl is now dead, but the evil of the Negaverse still remains. I am giving you the chance to fight again if you are willing. Will you accept this challenge?" Sailor Pluto asked.
"I will." Chad said without any hesitation at all.
Sailor Pluto smiled at him and opened her hand only to reveal the stone that had started it all.
"This is your power stone and will be used in your transformation. To activate it- shout 'Mars Planet Power.' You will then become the long lost warrior, Mars Knight. Protect your princess, Mars Knight. After all, you are still her guardian." Sailor Pluto said softly, and then turned to Raye.
Raye stood there, shocked, and changed as well. She felt all these new emotions for Chad the memories had awakened. She had noticed her reactions to her emotions before, and decided it was best to keep her mouth shut before she said something she didn't mean. Her lips still tingled though, remembering her kiss with Chad on the Moon.
"Princess Raye, please help Mars Knight fit in with the Sailor Soldiers. No one knows the ropes better than you. Give the girls my love. We will see each other again." Sailor Pluto said mysteriously.
Raye nodded, and with a flash, she felt herself being transported again. This time, however, she was hand in hand with her newfound guardian.
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