DISCLAIMER:
Sailor Moon is the property of Naoko Takeuchi and other
companies. I don't own her (Grrr), and this story is written with the sole
purpose of entertainment without any intention of commercial gain. No
copyrights infringement is intended. ((Translation: I don't have any money, so
please don't sue me, I'm poor!))
What has happened before:
After arriving at her new home, Serena finished the final
bureaucratic details for her to finally be installed in that world. After some
remembrance of what she had to do, she was utterly surprise when she found out
that she was roommate with a strange feline-like being. After a rather hot
beginning, the both of them finally became friends. Following some cursory
introductions once the mess had been cleared out, Serena, being who she is and
in order to start with the right foot a new friendship, nicknamed her new
companion Luna.
* = Change of Scene
( ) = Thoughts
+ + = Computer Responses or Electronic Communications
COMMANDER
GALOS
CHAPTER 3: THE LONG, WINDING ROAD.
Once she helped Luna get installed, Serena and her new friend went to the small kitchen and prepared themselves some snacks. It wasn't much since none had gone shopping for groceries. Even so, the sandwiches Serena made for herself and the cold meat cutlets that Luna ate were enough; they were getting comfortable with each other's company, after all. Currently, they were seated at the small table on the kitchen.
"No way! You were a defender of love and justice in your
world?" Luna asked, befuddlement clear in her expression.
"Yes, I was." Serena said, looking down at her lap, the last
sandwich forgotten. "But I wasn't that good. At least, that's what my other…
teammates said over and over again. And they were right."
"Oh, that's a big load of crap and you know it!" said Luna,
slamming her hand on the table. "Heck, if what you told me is half the truth,
then it's quite the opposite! It's THEM who can't do a thing without you, not
the other way around!"
"I wish I could believe you…" Serena said, her voice barely
a whisper. Talking more to herself than to her companion, she added. "There has
to be something wrong with me… or my ex-boyfriend shouldn't have dumped me the
way he did."
"His loss then!" Luna snorted, grateful for her enhanced
hearing. "If he couldn't appreciate you for who you are, then he didn't deserve
you." Deciding that a change of subject was needed, she then said. "Come on,
let's get something else to eat. These little snacks just made me hungrier!"
Serena shook her head to get rid of the impending
depression. "Sure, why not? And let's take the opportunity to stock on food!"
As an afterthought, she added. "Hey, with any luck, we'll meet a friend of
mine. If so, I'll present you with him."
"That's the spirit! Let's go!" once Serena retrieved her
purse from her room, the two friends went on their mission.
* * * *
Time passed.
The cafeteria on sector 35 was buzzing with the sound of
voices and other sounds coming from the attendants. The place was a favorite
among the students in the Academy since it offered a wide variety of meals for
all tastes. One of the main features was that, with its big window panes, the
place offered the illusion of being in the open, dismissing the image of a
closed environment. It was at a table near one of the windows that three people
were having lunch and chatting amiably.
"So, how is everything going?" asked the young man, taking a
sip from his coffee.
"When you said that it was going to be hard, you weren't
kidding!" answered the young blond woman seated in front of him. She was
rubbing her left elbow. "I almost broke my arm on the last self-defense lesson!
And the teachers at school can be so hard! I think I have been in detention
more time than I've been back at my bed."
"Heh, no kidding!" the female felinoid of the group said
between mouthfuls of her turkey. "I've already lost count of the times I've had
to wake you up during a lecture. Girl, I've told you time and time again, go
see a doctor! All that sleep is not normal!"
"Luna's right, Serena." The young man said. "Although I have
to say that it's not unheard of. Besides, you have been pushing yourself too
hard."
"Thanks Syl. I appreciate your words." Serena smiled in his
way. "It hasn't been easy these last four months, but it's been greatly
satisfying."
"You have earned it Sere!" Luna said after licking the last
of the turkey from her fingers. "I don't know if I could have made it through
some of the subjects without your help. Human Psychology is so confusing…"
"The same goes to you Luna. Mathematics has always been hard
for me. Without you tutoring me, I'm sure I should have flunk it a long time
ago."
"I'm happy seeing you getting along so well." Said Syl,
calling the robot waiter to refill his cup. "So Serena, are you still being
mobbed?"
"Don't remind me…" groaned Serena, frowning a little at the
memory. "It's getting harder to turn down all those guys asking me for dates."
"You're too lovely for your own good girl." Growled Luna,
the effect somewhat ruined by the smirk she was sporting. "Although it's fun to
see the flocks of hormone-crazy guys following you around."
"I wonder why am I not surprised by those news?" said Syl,
smirking as well. He then addressed Luna. "You should have seen my shipmates during the time we first met. One
more week and she would have been hard pressed to turn down all kind of
proposals."
Serena chocked on her tea upon hearing that. It was the
first time she knew about it! "You're kidding! How come I never noticed?"
Syl shrugged his shoulders, adopting an air of innocence
that none of the females on the table bought for a minute. "I have no idea. I
think it was because you were still recovering. Besides that, no clue."
"Hmph! Men… they're the same all over, no matter the species
or race." Muttered Luna.
"Since we're discussing the subject, I've been wondering…"
Serena looked straight into Syl's eyes. "How come you've never even made a pass
on me? Am I not good enough for you?" there was no way for any of the presents
not to detect the note of mischief that coated her words.
Syl took his time drinking his coffee before answering.
After making a show of cleaning his lips with his napkin and placing it on the
table, he finally said. "It's not that, Serena. Granted, you're a lovely and
attractive young woman. But let's be sincere; first, the age difference is too
great for me to be comfortable. You are, what? Fifteen? There's a four years
difference. And second, and the most important point… somehow, I don't see you
as a potential lover. I like you, don't misunderstand that, it's only that I
see you more like a little sister than anything else."
"You didn't have to be so direct, you know?" growled Luna.
"I'm not offended, but thanks anyway Luna." Serena said. She
then addressed Syl. "She's right you know? You were too direct, but still,
thanks for your sincerity."
"You deserve nothing but the truth Serena." Syl replied her
way, smiling faintly. "You've already suffered too much because of secrets… I
don't want you to go through that ever again."
Deciding to change subjects to something a little less
risky, he then commented. "One thing I'm not going to ever get used to, is
seeing you with that haircut. I still say it was a crime to make you cut your
hair."
"Oh, I agree with you Syl! I was so envious of her long
hair, and just because of regulations to cut it… I still want to gut the barber
with his own scissors!" Luna growled with hardly contained ferocity at the
memory.
Serena sighed at her friends' reaction, unconsciously fingering
her now shoulder-long hair. When she first heard of the rule to cut her hair,
she fought tooth and nail for it. But when, during the first self-defense
class, the instructor used her own pigtails to hog-tie her… It had been a hard
lesson for her to accept. As beautiful as it was, her long mane was a liability
in a battle situation.
(Well, at least I got a good haircut. I was afraid they
would make me use a page cut… or something shorter!) Serena mused a moment
more.
"Speaking of gutting… how many more have gone down the
Lane?" Syl asked all of a sudden.
"So far, another ten." Luna commented, sighing. "Four
humans, two polyphims and four felinoids. And I should know, our bedroom's
windows look straight at the Lane. Damn, and one of those felinoids was cute!"
They were talking about the exit passage from the Academy.
Officially, it was called Route 147-A, but everybody at the Academy called it
Loser's Lane. That, because it was the standard exit for all those who gave up
during the training. There was no biggest shame than going down that path,
despite having the chance to re-enlist the next period.
"There's been moments when I wanted to go down the Lane…" at
her comment, Serena's friends looked at her, shocked. "Not that I want now,
mind you! I've gone too far to give up at this time!"
"Please, don't scare me like that again!" said Syl,
clutching his chest with one hand.
"If you ever say that again, I'll personally slap you silly
until you regain your senses!" commented Luna, leaning closer to her friend.
Serena raised her hands in a placating manner, trying to
stall the attack. "Ok, Ok! It was only a joke! Sheesh, you don't have a sense
of humor!"
"Damn right!" Luna then sat back straight, a smug smirk on
her face.
At that moment, Syl looked at his watch. "Sorry to cut our
meeting so soon ladies, but I have to go now if I want to get back to classes
on time."
"That's right! Today we have an astronomy test and I haven't
reviewed the material yet! What am I going to do???" Serena's eyes went wide at
the realization, paling a little.
Sighing, Luna took out her own laptop and a disk, placing
the items on the table. "Here, you can use my notes. It's a wonder you pass the
classes with that kind of study habits!"
"See you later girls, have to go now. And good luck with
your test." With those words, Syl turned around and left the cafeteria,
chuckling the whole time.
* * * *
More time passed.
The main training field had been decorated for the august
occasion. Bleachers had been arranged in a horseshoe manner around a big open
area, including the special facilities for those beings that would need them.
At the open end of the arrangement, a podium had been set. And in the central
open area, a good thousand seats were placed.
The day had been perfect for the occasion, only a few clouds
were up in the sky, and a gentle breeze blew over the area. Even the chirping
of the birds was somewhat subdued, as if they were sensing the solemnity of the
ceremony taking place in that moment.
It was the final moments of the closing ceremony, the last
speaker had said its words (strange moment, since the speaker hadn't been even
remotely human.), the last of the diplomas had been handed, and now, the
director of the Academy was addressing all the present people.
"And to close, distinguished guests, honored members of the
Agency, I have to add my own personal thoughts. I am very proud of this
generation of graduates. Each and every one of them had fought so hard to be
here today, they trained and studied with all their enthusiasm to achieve what
they have earned today.
"Cadets, be proud of your accomplishments, of your
sacrifices, of your achievements. You have earned them with your efforts. They
won't go un-rewarded, and always remember that if you go though life with that
same mental attitude, nothing in the universe will be impossible for you.
"And now, it is with great pride and pleasure that I present
to you all, the Class of '63."
As soon as the words left his lips, a roar erupted from the
gathered crowd. The band was playing with all its feelings, adding to the happy
atmosphere that prevailed in the area.
At one corner, a happy reunion was taking place amidst the
myriad others around them.
"Girls, I couldn't feel prouder of you. You made it!" Syl
said, his face lit with a proud smile. "I feel so happy that I could burst!"
"I still can't believe it myself… it was so hard at times!
I'm happy that it's over!" despite her words, Serena couldn't help but smile
brightly at her friends. She looked great in her light gray dress uniform. The
tone was so that it seemed to have a blue hue, a tone that matched greatly with
her eyes. She was holding her diploma with both hands, keeping it close to her
heart.
"Oh please, spare me the sentimentalism! We made it through,
and that's what's important!" Luna said, her face equally grinning with
happiness. Despite her words, her tail was lashing with nervous energy. "As I
told you two one day, nothing can beat us Moon Girls!"
Syl couldn't help but smile and shake his head. For the last
months, that had been somewhat of a private joke among the two of them, caused
by Serena's meaning of her past name and Luna's real one. Nobody else but him
knew about it, and the three of them were perfectly fine with that.
Syl then produced a small camera from a pocket. "Now, can I
have the honor to take a photo of the newest cadets?"
"SURE!" the two ladies said in unison, immediately striking
a pose, their heads touching by the cheeks and displaying their new diplomas.
Their smiles were dazzling.
"Ok, hold it!"
After the photos were taken, Syl then said. "Ok, since this
is your day, how about I invite my two favorite girls to dinner? You name the
place!"
Upon hearing that, Luna and Serena smiled mischievously at
him. It was Serena who talked. "Well, now that you mentioned it… there is a
restaurant that we heard so much about…"
"Yeah, it's located near one of the starports, if I'm not
mistaken… The Starbright Hall, if I'm not mistaken." Finished Luna.
Upon hearing that, Syl paled slightly. (Ooh dear, me and my
big mouth! That's one of the most expensive restaurants in this sector!) But
when he saw the radiant expressions on their faces, he sighed and smiled as
well. (It's their day… they deserve it… Oh well, what the heck!) Stepping
between them, he offered his arms. "Your wish is my command. Shall we go
ladies?"
The Starlight Hall had a reputation among the inhabitants of
that sector. It only hired the best chefs in the known galactic quadrant, the
food was top-quality, the service was superb, the decoration was tasteful and
elegant, and the music was played by the best bands that credits could afford.
But the most prominent feature of the place was what gave it its name in the
first place.
A humongous window allowed an unparallel view of outer
space, letting the customers have a breathtaking view of the stars.
Occasionally, a ship crossed the view, but that only added to the unique flavor
of the place.
The central dance floor was made of polished wood, so
perfectly crafted that it gave the illusion of being one single piece, with a
mirror-like shine. Blue curtains of the finest materials hanged from white
marble columns, while the rest of the dining area had a soft red carpet so
plush that it gave the impression of walking on a cloud. The waiters (the live
ones) were dressed impeccably with ivory jackets and black pants, while the
service robots were chromed in bright silver and gold, depending on their
function. At one end of the dancing floor, an elevated podium dominated the
whole area. On such podium a band was playing a tune that an inhabitant of
earth would have confused with one of those common on the USO bars in WWII.
The place literally reeked of opulence and decadence… making
it popular among the populace that could afford its prices. At the moment, a
trio consisting on two humans and one felinoid was being showed towards their
table, which happened to be next to the dance floor. Once they were comfortably
seated, the maitre handed them their menus and returned to the entrance.
When Serena saw the prices, she almost shrieked. "Oh dear
Lord!! This is a robbery! I heard this place was expensive, but… this?? No, we
can't eat here! Let's get to some place more economical!"
Upon hearing that, Syl sighed and, after placing his menu on
the table, grabbed Serena's hand in a reassuring manner. "Now, now. Just
because the prices are a little high doesn't mean you can't enjoy it. Don't
worry, it's all on me!"
"But…"
"No buts!" Syl cut her objections. "You wanted to come, and
I'm sure to give your wishes to you. Besides, you two deserve only the best the
Agency can offer, and nothing reflects it better than this place." He finished
his diatribe with a reassuring smile. He was rewarded with Serena relaxing.
"Are you sure you can afford this, Syl? I have to admit it
too, this is something that goes a… little out of our regular budget." Luna
added her two cents to the conversation.
"Don't worry about it." Syl said with a satisfied smile. "I
can afford it no problem. I have enough savings to make the point moot, so
let's not dwell on it anymore, ok?"
"Ok." Serena then began to look at the dishes, not the
prices. It wasn't long for her to decide what to order. After all, despite the
good quality of the take out and hers and Luna's cooking efforts, a good meal
wasn't something she was going to let pass!
Once their orders had been delivered, they began to eat in
peace and quiet, only chatting about unimportant things. It was when the
desserts were served that Syl began the more serious talk.
"I hope you don't mind me for asking this, but during the
ceremony, I couldn't help but notice that you two were a little… how to say it…
subdued? It was as if something was missing from your normal selves."
Pushing aside the empty dish of her Triple Chocolate Hot
Fudge (some things never change.), Serena sighed and decided to answer his
question. "Nothing really… it's just that… when I was there on the podium, for
a moment… I wished that my parents were there to see me graduate. I know it's silly,
but… I couldn't help it."
Luna then decided to answer the question as well, looking
deeply at her glass of sweet cream. "Funny. I was thinking the exact same
thing. I wished that my parents and family were here to see my dreams coming
true. It was awkward being among the few people that were alone during the
ceremony…"
Syl kicked himself mentally for such a goof. (But of course!
How could I have forgotten such an important detail?? They have been fending
all by themselves all this time, and I have to go and ruin the most important
moment of their lives!!! What a dork!!!) "I'm so sorry! This is inexcusable
from my part! I shouldn't have brought the topic out, please forgive me!"
"No, it's not your fault Syl." Serena said, smiling softly
his way. "It would have been nice, but I realize it was only a foolish wish.
There is nothing to apologize for."
"The same goes for me, so don't worry about it, ok?" added
Luna, finishing her cream. "That's something that can't be changed, so why
waste our good moods over that? What's done is done, and leave it at it!"
"Very well. Thanks girls." Syl said, feeling somewhat
better. Deciding to change topics towards something less depressing, he then
asked. "So, what are your plans now? It's been a long year since you arrived
Serena, so what do you want to do now? Are you going to apply for full
citizenship now, or do you want to wait for another year? And what about you
Luna? What are your plans?"
Luna leaned back on her seat, looking at the high ceiling
with a pensive air around her. "I planned to apply for officer training. That's
the logical step towards achieving my dreams after all… I'm not going to stop
until I am in command of one of those big ships. Besides, when I finally make
it, I would have opened the path for others like me to be more than they are
now."
"Those are some pretty big aspirations Luna." Said Syl,
looking at the felinoid with respect on his eyes. "And if someone can do it, it
will certainly be you."
"I'm sure that you'll make it Luna." Said Serena, smiling
brightly at her friend. "And don't forget, when you're captain of your own
ship, you'll have to take me with you for a ride, ok?"
"Count on it girlfriend! You'll be a guest of honor aboard!"
It was then that Serena noticed Syl's questioning gaze. "I'm
still not sure, Syl… I mean, I would like to be a citizen of the Agency, but
even then, what would I do? I don't want to be a soldier, but what else is
there for me?"
Luna used the pause in the conversation to get her chair
closer to her friend. Putting an arm around Serena's shoulders, she then said.
"Well, why don't you come with me? You don't have to be a career officer if you
don't want to, but the extra little teaching and training won't hurt either.
Besides, why separate a winning couple like us?"
It was then that Syl remembered something else, a memory
from the time he had talked with the Lucky Star's doctor the day he had brought
Serena onboard. "Hey, if my memory serves me well, there is also a good motive
for you to join."
"And what is?" Serena asked, puzzled.
"Remember that first time on board the Star? When the doctor
said you are an esper?"
Luna looked at Serena's way with wide eyes, surprised. "You
never told me you were an esper! Girl, you are full of surprises!"
"But I am not! I still don't think I am one, anyway…" Serena
then fingered absently the Moon Brooch that adorned her formal uniform. During
the whole year, she had worn it out of habit, never expecting to ever use it
again. It was the last link of a past of bitter fights and memories she hoped
never to return.
"How do you know if you don't try?" Syl inquired, looking
into her eyes. "The best instructors are at the officers' school. And if you
are not, so what? You can't lose a thing, and as Luna said, a little extra
education won't hurt."
Serena felt flabbergasted at the twin assault. This was a
big decision, one she wasn't sure was able to take by herself. She debated with
her muddled thoughts for a moment, weighing the possible consequences of taking
such a step. It was when she saw the encouraging looks of her friends that she
made her decision. Taking a deep breath and sitting straighter on her seat, she
said.
"Very well… I'll do it!"
"GREAT!!!" Luna said, clapping her hands happily, sans
claws. "Then we'll go together to make the applications in two weeks, when the
subscription period starts!"
"And don't worry about a thing, Serena." Syl said, happy for
her decision. "I'll be there to support you all the way."
"We'll BOTH be there to support her, buster! Don't you dare
to take all the attention from her, or I'll use you as my personal scratch
post!"
Syl raised an eyebrow at that remark, but upon seeing the
mischievous glint on Luna's eyes, decided to play her game. "Oh yeah? You and
what army, furball?"
"Oooh! Just because you're going to pay the bill, I won't
slice you to shreds, pretty boy!"
Serena looked at her two friends, letting them bicker
amiably among themselves. She felt happy now for her decision. And felt even
happier seeing that she had at her side two good friends that wouldn't let her
alone, that would be by her side, no matter what. (Yes… they are good friends,
not like… no, better not think of that.)
Dismissing the brief pang of pain that came with that memory
flash, she then concentrated on looking at her friends' friendly banter.
* * * *
"Here are your keycards and your documents. Welcome to the
Officer's School." The clerk at the Admin building told the two new arrivals.
After checking that everything was in order, and they had all they would need
for their stay there, two young ladies (one human, one felinoid) crossed the
arch that lead to the assigned living quarters of the place.
"I'm sure going to miss the old place…" Serena commented to
her friend, walking somewhat burdened by her suitcases. "We spent a lot of good
times in that apartment."
"Oh, that's for sure." Said Luna, watching the numbers on
the doors. "Do you remember the first time you made that dish from your world?
Curry, I think you call it. For a moment I though you had killed a gamorian
dweller and put it on a plate!"
"Oh yeah? And what about the time you bought that package
thinking it had sausages, and ended up being a package of reticulan
flaggerworms? Those things ate all our fresh vegetables before we knew it!"
"Hey, I said I was sorry! You don't have to bring that up
every day, you know?" Grinning to herself, Luna added. "Do you think we got rid
of them all? I still think all our vegetables ran out too fast for only being
consumed by the both of us…"
Serena shuddered at the idea of a plague of those worms
running amok on the building. It had been hard enough the first time to get rid
of them in the first place! "I really hope you're wrong… I don't want to pay
for another exterminator!" It was at that moment that they arrived at their new
quarters. Taking the initiative, Serena used her own keycard and opened the
door.
Once inside, Luna gave a cursory look around. "Well, at
least it's roomier than our old place. I like it!" And it was. There was a
living room with a long couch and two armchairs, a proper dinning room with a
six-chair table, a kitchen with a bar to place the dishes, a small bar, and the
customary two bedrooms and one bathroom.
It didn't take them long to get installed. As always, Serena
got dibs on the room closer to the kitchen. They were already making a list of
what they would need when a knock came from the entrance. Activating the small
intercom on the kitchen, Luna asked. "Yes, who is it?"
+ Hi girls! It's me, Syl! Can I come in? I have something to
ask Serena about. +
Before Luna could say a thing, Serena had already bolted to
open the door. It wasn't long before Syl came in in Serena's company.
"It didn't took you long to pay a visit." Luna said,
smirking.
"How did you know we were already here?" Serena asked, while
heading to the kitchen to get at least some water for her friend.
"I asked the clerk to give me a call the moment you two
arrived, that's all. Besides, my own living quarters are at the men's building
two blocks down the street." Syl said, taking a seat on the couch. Looking
around, he commented. "You got assigned a nice place ladies! It surely is
comfier than the last one."
"That's what we were discussing before getting in." Serena
said, giving him his water. After taking a seat on one of the chairs, she then
asked. "And what brings you here?"
After taking a sip of water and placing the glass on the
coffee table, Syl explain his reasons. "Thanks for reminding me. Before you do
anything regarding your schedules, I want to present you to the people that
will help you find out if you're an esper or not."
"And who those might be? A race I know about?" inquired
Luna, taking a seat on the other chair.
"Perhaps Luna… the people I'm talking about are the
Ethereals."
Upon hearing the name, Luna sat stiff, her eyes wide open.
It took her some time to find her voice back. "The… the Ethereals? Are you sure
about it? I mean, the rumors…"
"That's all they are. Only rumors without foundation." Syl
cut Luna's comment rather abruptly.
Serena looked at her friends, frowning at Luna's reaction.
Puzzled, she finally asked. "Ethereals? Who or what are they?"
"The Ethereals are a race of powerful psychic beings." Syl
began his explanation. "Nobody knows for sure where they come from or what they
were originally. The only sure thing is the incredible mental power they can
handle."
"That's putting it mildly!" Luna interrupted Syl's
explanation, much to his discomfort. Before he could stop her, she continued.
"There's a legend about how powerful they are. Around forty galactic years ago,
a race called the Trogarcs tried to invade their supposed homeworld. Chronicles
say that their fleet was one of the biggest ones ever assembled. More than
three hundred battleships, with thousands of heavily trained warriors entered
that solar system…" Luna just shook her head at that point.
In a very faint voice, Serena finally made the obvious
question. "So… what happened?"
"Nobody knows for sure. Of all those ships and warriors,
only a small escape pod with four passengers made it back. Nobody heard from
the rest ever again." Luna finished her story, looking at Serena with a serious
expression. "Those four were completely crazy, babbling incoherencies about
ships becoming dust, their fellow warriors turning into organic gel, energy
beams turning around against their originators, voices whispering inside their
heads, horrible images assaulting them at all times… personally, I wouldn't get
near an Ethereal even if that meant getting everything I ever wanted."
"Those are simply rumors, if you ask me." Said Syl,
snorting. "There isn't one piece of hard evidence to support that story. Heck,
there's not one single witness or registry in all the Trogarc's homeworld and
colonies that even hint that such a fleet ever existed. The Trogarcs have a
very retrograde mentality, so seeing a being like the Ethereals obviously
scares them. It's easy to assume that such story is nothing more than a
disinformation campaign."
"Even so Syl… remember what our history teacher taught us
Serena: 'every legend has a piece of truth at its core.' I won't dismiss that
story so lightly." Finished Luna.
"Well, I have to admit that dealing with them can be pretty
creepy." Said Syl, drinking the last of his water. "But that's all it is.
Granted, they prefer to be left alone and their living quarters are very
isolated from the rest of the Academy, but there's no denying that they are the
people to ask about things of the mind."
Nobody said a thing for a couple of minutes. Luna was the
first one to break it. "Serena, please… don't go with them. I don't want to
lose my very best friend! We can find another way!"
Serena looked worried for a moment at hearing Luna. She was
preoccupied by what she had said, but there were also Syl's reassurances that
everything was going to be all right. When she looked at Syl, he only stared at
her, waiting for her decision.
She was still debating with herself if to accept Syl's
suggestion when she felt a faint warm feeling doming from her chest. Puzzled,
she looked down and placed a hand on top of the Moon Locket. She gasped when
she felt it becoming warmer, in rhythmic waves as if it was a heart beating.
Closing her eyes, she concentrated first in not going with those Ethereal
beings. The Ginzuishou inside began to beat frantically under her fingertips.
Immediately, she though in accepting, this time the crystal's beating becoming
more subdued. She took that as a sign for what to do.
"I am sorry Luna… but I think, no, I BELIEVE this is
something I have to do." Serena said, much to Luna's distress. She then
addressed Syl. "All right, let's do it. What do I have to do?"
Smiling at her decision, Syl only said. "I already sent a
message to the Ethereals' citadel here on the Academy. When they saw the report
of that first time we met, they immediately agreed to meet you." He then looked
up, deep in thought. "That's strange, though… this is the first time I ever
heard of them wanting to see anybody. Normally, one has to beg for weeks before
they even let you talk with them." Regaining his bearings, he added. "They want
to see you as soon as possible, so, what better moment than the present?"
"Not so fast buster!" Luna said, almost snarling in his
direction. "If she goes there, then sure as Hell I'm going with you two! I
won't let them paw at my friend's mind if I can help it!"
"Thanks Luna, I really appreciate it." Serena smiled at her
friend, touched by the depth of her feelings for her. Addressing Syl, she
added. "Well, since they want to see me, then let's go, shall we?"
Standing up, Syl helped Serena to stand up as well.
"Perfect! We can rent a hovercar outside the Academy, and use it to reach the
citadel!"
With that as a closure, the trio left the apartment.
* * * *
An hour later, the three of them were standing in front of
the Ethereals' citadel. Situated in the middle of a forested area, the whole
construction defied the mind. Every time they tried to focus their eyes on one
spot, the whole structure seemed to shift and change shape, until it didn't resemble
what they wanted to look at in the first place. The material appeared to be
crystal, or perhaps it was organic, or even maybe something completely alien.
Yellowish in color, the whole construct seemed to be made of one single piece
of that material, even more, it appeared to have grown on the place it stood.
The trio was standing in front of a wall of what they
assumed was the front of the citadel. "Well… now what, oh wise one?" said Luna,
crossing her arms. It was obvious she was nervous. Her tail was twitching, its
hair on end.
"I'm not sure," muttered Syl, looking around for an
entrance, "when I contacted them, it was using text, not even voice. They never
mentioned a thing about how to get inside their place."
"Oh, that's just perfect!" muttered Luna. "Well, since it's
obvious they don't want visitors, let's go back to our place, ok? Hey, I'll
even buy lunch, how about it?" she then turned around, heading in the direction
of the hovercar.
"Oh Luna, don't be silly! There is nothing to be afraid of!"
Serena said, turning around from her examination of the wall to see her friend.
"Perhaps we just missed the entrance, that's all."
"Serena's right, Luna." Said Syl, turning around as well.
"All we have to do is walk around the place and look for the main entrance.
Nothing to it, really."
Sighing in exasperation, Luna began to turn around. "Well,
if you want to stay here, fine! But don't try and drag… me… with…" it was at
that moment that she looked behind her friends, her jaw hanging lifelessly.
"Luna, what's the matter? Are you all right?" asked Serena,
suddenly worried for her friend. When Luna just pointed behind her with a shaky
finger, she gulped. Very slowly, she turned around. Out the corner of her eye,
she noticed that Syl was doing the same thing. When she finally looked behind
her, she couldn't help but shriek and jump back.
Standing in front of an arch that hadn't been there a moment
ago, were three beings dressed in bright orange robes, complete with hoods that
covered their heads completely, obscuring their heads with complete darkness.
Standing at a respectable 7 feet tall, they didn't react to Serena's outburst.
Clearing his throat, Syl then addressed the new arrivals.
"Good afternoon. I'm ensign Sylpheed. I contacted you regarding the possibility
of esper training for a friend of mine. You asked us to come as soon as
possible." He waited for an answer, but it never came.
Luna was standing transfixed in the same place, around ten
yards away from her friends. Her claws were closing and opening alternatively,
her tail bristled with anxiety. It was obvious she was debating with her need
to protect her friend and staying away from those strangers that made her so
anxious.
Serena, for her part, stood in her place, eyes wide open.
Her breathing was shallow and fast, and her hands were clammy and cold. She was
extremely nervous now that the moment of meeting these strangers had arrived.
Nobody moved for some time, each of the presents looking at
the other group. The Ethereals, for their part, had their attention focused on
Serena, their attitude seemingly indicating they were studying her as if she
was a new specimen to dissect. When they apparently were satisfied with what
they saw, they took positions surrounding Serena. Needless to say, this made
her even more nervous.
Luna tensed for attack, supposing Serena was going to be
attacked. However, before she could react, she heard a voice… inside her head.
(There is no need to worry, child. We have been expecting
this girl for a very long time.)
Obviously, Serena heard that as well since she asked the
nearest ethereal. "You… were expecting me?"
(Yes, young one. We have been preparing for your arrival for
many life spans. There is no need to fear, you are perfectly safe. We won't
hurt you, or allow any harm come your way while you are among us.)
Syl decided to join the conversation at that moment, his
face showing his puzzlement. "But… how can it be? I met her barely over a year
ago… how could you have known of her before that?"
(We have ways to know that your mind can't comprehend, boy.
Suffice it to say, that everything is fine. Report to your superiors that this
young one will stay with us for the time being. All her needs will be taken
care of from now on.)
"Hey, wait a minute here!" Luna recovered enough to step
closer to the three Ethereals… although not much. "If she's staying here, them
I'm staying too!"
(Your place is not with us, child. Your destiny lies in
other place. We approve of your loyalty and caring of your friend, but you need
to follow your own path, just as she needs to follow hers. Now, it is time to
begin. Come with us young one.)
Luna growled at the way she was being dismissed. She was
about to attack the Ethereals when Syl got in her way. "Move over Syl! I won't
let these creeps take Serena with them!"
"No Luna, listen to me! They are not going to harm her,
that's for sure! It is obvious that they want to help her, so it's not our
place to interfere. Let's go back."
"He's right Luna." The felinoid turned her gaze towards her
friend. She was so focused with Syl in front of her that she hadn't noticed
that Serena and the Ethereals were now on the other side of the arch. "Don't
worry about me, I'll be fine. I thank you for your friendship and support, but
they're right. This is something I have to do… I don't know how, but all this
feels… right. As if it was meant to happen. Go back to the Academy with Syl,
and don't worry. I'll be in touch, ok?"
Hearing that, Luna deflated, feeling defeated. Still, she
found the strength to talk once more. "Just… promise me you won't let yourself
get brainwashed, ok?"
Serena couldn't help but smile, touched by her friend's
attitude towards her. It warmed her in her heart and soul. "I promise. I'll
call you soon. And take care, please." In that moment, the walls seemed to
become liquid, flowing to fill the arch. In a moment the wall was once more
complete, no trace of the entrance's existence remaining.
Luna embraced herself, feeling cold all of a sudden. She
already missed Serena… After all, the blond had been the very first person that
wanted to be friendly with her, despite her own explosive character.
"Come one, let's go back." Syl placed a hand on her elbow in
a reassuring manner. But he betrayed his own feelings when he looked back at
the empty wall before boarding the hovercar.
When they were on their way back to the Academy's living
quarters, Luna sent one last thought in her friend's direction. (Remember
Serena… you promised. Please, come back safe and sound.)
TO BE CONTINUED.
Author's notes.
Phew!! Another chapter ready. I can't believe it; I'm on a
roll here! Sorry if this chapter seems a little rushed because of those huge
jumps in time and only a few scenes describing the time Serena spent on the
Academy. But if I wrote all I wanted, this chapter would have been humongous!
And by extension, it would have taken a very long time to come out.
For those who don't know who are the Ethereals, they are
characters of a videogame called X-COM: UFO DEFENSE (also known as X-COM: ENEMY
UNKNOWN in Europe) by Microprose. In the game, they were the bad guys, but in
my story, they'll be the good ones! And just wait; it will become interesting
from now on!
Once again, a big THANK YOU goes to Yohann DeSabrais for
being a good friend and a strict prereader. This chapter became what it was
thanks to your input and comments. Thanks buddy!
And last but not least, thanks to all of you who have
reviewed this story and e-mailed me with encouraging words. This is for you
all!
Next chapter will be what some have asked about: a look at
what has happened back on Serena/Usagi's homeworld! All intermixed with
Serena's training with the Ethereals. Wish me luck, because I want it to be
special!
Ok, that's all for now… later!