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:
Preparations are complete. The last problems have been solved and the crew is ready to start their journey into the future. Among all this, the Senshi found themselves in the interesting position of lending their powers to activate a series of defective battle robots. Even more, Chibi-Usa finally revealed the existence of the time key she used to travel to the past. Now, Maximillian Hathaway seemed to have found a way to use it to send the whole of the Lucky Star into the time stream using it.
Now all they have to do is hope for the best.
* = Change of Scene
( ) = Thoughts
+ + = Computer Responses or Electronic Communications
SILVER TEARSBY
COMMANDER GALOS
CHAPTER 13: TO BOLDLY GO...
The last twenty-four hours on board the Lucky Star had been hectic to say the very least. The maintenance crew had worked non-stop modifying all essential systems for the upcoming battle, and the whole crew had been on yellow alert, half expecting the Dark Moon Family to send their next general during the middle of the ship's impromptu overhaul.
During that time, the Senshi, after recovering from their previous experience, decided to do something besides staying in their quarters. For that effect, they did their best to help the ship's crew in any way they could.
Mercury had gone to the scientific wing, in hopes to help with more research. It came to no surprise when Hathaway dragged her to Engineering, where the two of them [along with a group of technicians] worked against the clock to modify the ship's main system: The Dimensional Jump Drive, the heart of their dimensional shifting capabilities.
Jupiter, for her part, had decided to put her culinary knowledge to good use. After getting permission from captain Vardeen, she went to the ship's main kitchen, where she impressed the cooks there with her knowledge and ability.
Mars, for her part, had joined Tuxedo Kamen into joining the security forces. Her character and fiery disposition impressed the people there. But when she made a demonstration of her fire-based powers she gained the respect of the soldiers. Tuxedo Kamen, for his part, found a little difficulty in impressing the soldiers. Albeit his keen reflexes using his cane as a weapon, his rose-tossing ability earned a few snickers.
Venus… well, for starters, she was banned from anything related to engineering after her attempt in modifying a plasma rifle ended up with the thing melting in the test bench. After drifting aimlessly in the corridors, she ended up stumbling with one of the recreation areas. In there, she found, of all things, a karaoke machine! After finding a good selection of songs, she began to sing with all her heart. It wasn't long before a good audience gathered in the lounge, listening to her. Unknown to Venus, her performance helped to boost the crews' confidence.
Chibi-Usa, for her part, decided to spend the rest of the time with Serena, talking about little things. The two girls put their differences aside, finally cementing a good friendship.
All in all, by the time the ship was ready for departure, the crew had changed their mind about the Senshi. Instead of seeing them as traitors and heartless, envious and careless girls, they finally realized that they were a group of teenagers that had been tossed into a series of events they didn't have control over. There were a few resentments still there, but not as obvious or strong as there were at first.
It was 14:17 hours according to the Star's clock when everything was ready. The last of the weapons had been recalibrated and tested, the Jump Drive had the time key inserted with all the modifications ready, and the crew was rested and ready for whatever they might face. Deciding to keep the ship out of earth's scanning systems, the Lucky Star had positioned itself behind the moon.
The Senshi, along with Serena and the Four Sisters were in the bridge, along with Tuxedo Kamen and Hathaway. It was the latter who addressed the captain.
"Well sir, all's set. We connected the time key module to the touch pads on your command chair. And, remember, you have to use the P.A. system to speak the activation phrase… whatever it is. A couple of speakers have been introduced into the module, just in case."
"Very impressive, doctor Hathaway." Said the captain. "All your good work will be mentioned in your permanent record."
"Thank you sir."
It was at that moment that the communications officer made his announcement. "Sir, I'm receiving a sub-spatial message. It's the attack group, they're here."
"On screen." Said the captain. And sure enough, on the screen a series of bluish portals appeared; all on the bridge witnessed as a series of ships began to emerge from those portals. For the earth citizens, the scene was imposing at best, awe-striking at most, but for the rest of the personnel in the bridge, it was something normal.
The Epsilon-Theta battle group had arrived.
There weren't too many ships, but what they saw easily was enough. Four super-dreadnought class ships, each around the size of Tokyo and neighboring wards; six dreadnought class ships, which Serena told the others were carriers, each around a third of the size of the four big ships; ten battle cruisers, each bigger than the Star itself, and about fifteen destroyers, slightly smaller than the Lucky Star, their hulls brimming with weapons.
"Sir, incoming message." The communications officer said.
"On screen." Said captain Vardeen. Immediately, the image shifted to show the man in command of the battle group. His uniform similar to the captain's, with the difference of three stars on the neck, unlike the two bars on the captain's.
+ Captain Vardeen, good to see you. This is Admiral Carlson, battle group Epsilon-Theta. +
"Admiral, good to see you too." Answered the captain. "You arrived just in time, we were about to make the jump without you."
+ So, this isn't where my boys have to clean up? It doesn't make any difference, anyway. So, where are we going then? +
"Well, you see sir, it's not a question of where, but a question of When." Seeing the inquiring look on the admiral's face, captain Vardeen proceeded to give a brief summary of the situation. "And as you can see, this is the right place, but not the time. The science group of the Star was able to develop a way to shift through time and arrive where we are needed."
+ I see. Transmit the data; my combat engineers will refit the group so we can follow you. +
"Yes sir." Nodding in the direction of the communications officer, said officer began a high-speed transmission of what they had learned so far. A couple of minutes later he signaled that the transmission was complete.
+ Data received, we'll start immediately. +
"Understood sir. In the meantime, we'll test the drive's modifications."
+ Do so. Good luck, captain. +
"Thank you sir. Lucky Star, out." Once the communication was over, captain Vardeen addressed Hathaway. "Are you sure this will work out?"
"I'm positive sir." Answered the scientist. "Now, what you have to do is just sit down, place your hands on the touch pads and recite the key's activation phrase. And don't worry, there will be no feedback." He then added under his breath, too low for anyone to hear him. "I hope…"
Sighing, the captain took his place on his command chair, placed his hands on the touch pads and signaled to the communications officer to open the P.A. system. Clearing his throat he said.
"Attention all hands, this is captain Vardeen speaking. We are about to initiate the test of the Jump Drive. I have been assured that everything will work out, but you all know the procedures for this kind of things. All non-essential personnel are to remain on their quarters until the test is complete. Maintenance and Damage Control Groups are to remain on Yellow Alert.
"Good luck, everyone."
Making sure that the P.A. System was disconnected, the captain then addressed Serena. "All right Ambassador, what is this famous activation phrase?"
Serena then produced a small piece of paper, which she handed to the captain. Upon seeing what was written on it, the captain gave a piercing look in her direction. "Ambassador… is this some kind of joke?"
"Afraid not sir." Answered Serena, who was putting it all to not start laughing. "This is what Chibi-Usa told me has to be said to activate the key. I don't have reasons to believe that she was joking. This is the real thing."
Captain Vardeen took another look at the phrase, closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and finally addressed the communications officer. "Cut all communications with the battle group. I don't want anything to get out of here until we finish this test, is that clear?"
"Yes sir." Answered the officer, puzzled. After touching a few buttons, he reported. "Communications off, sir."
"Thank you." Without looking at anyone in special, he then said. "Initiate jump sequence. Open P.A. System." Then, under his breath, he murmured. "I can't believe I have to do this… the things I do to save a planet…"
All bridge personnel began to work for the impending Jump, all doing their jobs precisely and to the point. A few moments later, the chief engineer reported. "All set captain. Ready when you are."
(One thing is for sure… I'll never be able to live this down.) Thought the captain. After taking another deep breath, he finally said the activation phrase that would initiate what Hathaway dubbed the 'time jump'.
"Listen Guardian of Time and Space! Open it's gates, cracking the sky in front of me! I'm calling your name, almighty God of Time and Space, guardian father, Chronos! Please lead me! Please protect me! Open the light path before me!"
The silence that invaded the bridge [not to mention the whole ship] was overwhelming. More than one stared openly at the captain, who had his eyes closed and muttered something through clenched teeth. The silence was broken by a series of beeps coming form the engineering console.
"Ahem… sir… drive is online. Energy fluctuation is… between normal parameters. All systems… nominal." Said the chief engineer, fighting the urge to laugh out loud. He wasn't the only one. The Senshi and the Four Sisters, among a few other crewmembers, were biting their lips to not burst out laughing.
"Sir?" said the helm. "Energy fluctuation forming in front of us. High-energy particles and what the computer identify as Chronotrons detected. It appears to be some kind of dimensional rift."
"On screen." Muttered the Captain, mustering what was left of his wounded pride and dignity. However, his ego took another devastating blow.
Aghast, what the screen showed was a swirling vortex of clouds forming in front of the Lucky Star. The fact that CLOUDS were forming in space's hard vacuum wasn't what bothered him. It was the fact that they were PASTEL PINK clouds what made him feel sick.
The voice coming from the helm took him out of his gloomy thoughts, a distraction he welcomed with all his heart.
"Sir… something's happening. I lost navigational control of the ship!"
"Captain, the Drive… it's pouring the energy out of its containment fields and rerouting it to the ship's hull! I can't stop it!" reported the chief engineer, working feverishly on his station.
"Sir, we're moving straight towards that vortex! I can't stop the ship!" reported the helm, equally busy on his station.
"Abort test! Sound red alert!" said the captain. Immediately, lights dimmed and turned a red hue, while a siren was heard all over the ship. "Engineering, disconnect the Jump Drive manually, reset the navigational computers. If necessary, cut the reactors' power supply to the engines. We have to stop!"
The chief engineer relayed the orders through his station, while he continued to work on it. Finally, he said. "There's no use sir! We can't stop! If we try to shut down the reactors, the feedback will make them explode!"
"Captain, priority message from Admiral Carlson!" said the communications officer.
"That's all what we needed. On screen!" the admiral's face appeared on the main screen, although the image was wavering.
+ Captain Vardeen, what is going on? Why are you heading towards that rift? And why is your ship glowing pink?? +
"Something went wrong with the test admiral." Answered the captain. "We lost control over navigation, propulsion and power. We're being dragged inside the rift and we can't prevent it. We need help."
+ You are too far from the nearest destroyer for it to use tractor beams. We'll do what we can, though. Can you resist until we arrive? +
Captain Vardeen looked at his engineer, who shook his head in the negative. In that instant, the helm reported.
"Sir… we're entering the rift now."
Standing up from his seat, the captain approached the screen. With a neutral voice, he finally said. "Wish us luck admiral. And if you can, try to find us… or at least our remains."
The admiral's image began to blur, his voice becoming lost in static. However, his last words were clear enough.
+ Good luck captain. We'll do what we can. + With that, all communications with the battle group were lost. The image on the screen shifted to show a swirling mass of pink clouds dominating the whole view. All of a sudden, the ship began to vibrate.
Taking his seat, the captain opened the P.A. system. "Attention all personnel. Brace for impact… and good luck everyone." As soon as he said it, a white glow appeared on the screen, its brilliance augmenting despite the automatic filters. It wasn't long before the bright light, blinding all present, engulfed the whole bridge, at the same time the vibration increased in force to the point that everybody thought the ship would fall apart.
From the Epsilon-Theta battle group's perspective, the now pink-glowing ship entered the swirling vortex, a series of lightning bolts impacting it. Four destroyers made an attempt to follow the ship, but as soon as it crossed, the rift closed immediately. In a matter of seconds there was no trace of it, or the Lucky Star.
For all who witnessed the event, one thought was present.
The Lucky Star had, by all appearances, run out of luck.
* * * *
Captain Vardeen didn't know how much time passed between the entrance to the vortex and the time he regained consciousness. The last thing he remembered was his ship vibrating quite violently, instruments exploding in a shower of sparks, grunts and screams everywhere, at the same time a bright luminescence invaded the bridge. Through his closed eyelids he perceived the white glow, however its feeling was quite different. It had a… soothing quality on it. Opening his eyes just a crack, he turned his aching head to the origin of the light, half expecting it to be the main screen.
What he saw was Serena, Ginzuishou in hand. It was the crystal what was glowing. The second thing he noticed was that the ship's vibration was gone. It wasn't long before the crystal's glow subsided until it was no more; however, she kept the crystal at hand, ready to use it in case it was needed.
His own training kicking in, the captain shook his head to clear it from the last cobwebs he felt inside and took a look around. His crew, along with the rest of the women in the bridge were already standing up, groaning or moaning in some cases. Taking a deep breath, he immediately took command once more.
"All stations, report."
"Communications here. All functioning."
"Helm. Systems working once more."
"Science here. Everything is back to normal."
"Engineering. All systems back to normal. Damage Control reports minor to medium structural damage to the ship's hull and support systems, as well as a series of fractures and alignment failures on a few critical systems; they're working on fixing it."
Reports from all over the ship began to arrive, confirming that the Lucky Star had made it in relatively one piece, although barely. Once captain Vardeen was sure his ship and crew were fine, he addressed Serena. "Ambassador, what did you do? Do you know what happened?"
"I'm not quite sure myself, captain," began Serena, keeping the Ginzuishou in her right hand, "as soon as we crossed, the crystal appeared in front of me. I had the sensation that it was the excess energy from the time key that was tearing the ship apart, so I used the crystal to dissipate it. Besides that, I did nothing else."
"It was more than enough. You saved all our lives once more, ambassador. Thank you." Said the captain, smiling. He then addressed the rest of his crew. "Communications, call the battle group and tell them of our situation. Helm, find our where we are. Science, find out what went wrong with the Drive and fix it. Engineering, check the Drive and all affected systems; if something else was affected or suspect it was, check and fix it."
The crew immediately went to work. It wasn't long before reports began to come in.
"Sir, Engineering. In order to recalibrate the Jump Drive, we had to disconnect it completely. It will take at least 28 hours to run a full check."
"Science here. My team is going through all the calculations and specs. It will take us a full day to find out what went wrong."
Captain Vardeen acknowledged the reports, having expected something like that. However, the next reports took him completely by surprise.
"Sir? Helm here. I… I'm not getting a thing. Sensors don't pick up anything outside. No background radiation, no energy waves of any kind, not even dust… nothing! Astrogation systems can't locate a single star, so we have no way to know where we are."
"Captain, Communications here. I'm not picking anything. No beacons, no radio signals, no nothing. Not even static!"
In that instant one of the doors whoosh-ed open, allowing Chibi-Usa to enter the bridge, followed by the Luna-Ball. Without preamble, the little girl ran and latched herself to Serena's leg, sobbing.
"Honey, what's the matter?" inquired Serena, kneeling and embracing the little girl. Chibi-Usa's sobs subsided a little, just enough to let her talk.
"It… it was scary! Everything went red and that horrible sound blaring! Then the whole room began to jump and buckle… things began to fall off the furniture… I heard screams… I'm scared!!"
"Shh… Shh… everything's fine now, Chibi-Usa. All will work out, you'll see. There's nothing to be afraid of." Serena continued talking calming words to the little girl, all the time keeping her in her arms. While she was doing that, Mercury had taken out her computer and activated her visor, running a scan of her own. A moment later she had her results.
"I can't detect a thing. The only thing that shows on my scans is the ship itself. Outside of it, I can't find anything."
"Put the main screen back online. Let's see where we are." Ordered the captain. During the whole ordeal, the automatic systems had shut the screen down. But when the unit became active again, murmurs erupted from the ship's crew. What appeared was an apparently endless field of white mist… and nothing more. There was no way to differentiate the ground from the sky.
"Where the hell are we, anyway?" asked the second in command, puzzled.
"We're in the time stream." Said Avery, leaning on a wall for support, her sisters helping her to stand up. She had a small bump in her head, but dismissed the attempts to take her to the medical ward. "This is not a place, more like the embodiment of all time… past, present and future flows through here."
"Great." Muttered the officer. "Then how are we going to get out of here?"
"Perhaps Puu can help us!" muttered Chibi-Usa from Serena's embrace.
"Puu? And who… or what is this… Puu?" inquired the captain, puzzled.
"You'll see." Getting out of Serena's arms, she grabbed Luna-Ball and pressed its nose. She then began to talk to it. "Puu? Can you hear me? It's me, Chibi-Usa! I brought some friends with me but we need help! Can you help us?" she waited for a few moments, during which nothing happened. She then tried again. "Puu? Answer me, please! We need your help!"
Nobody said a word the whole time Chibi-Usa tried to contact this 'Puu', everybody expecting to see some results. However, after a few minutes of fruitless calls, Chibi-Usa released the Luna-Ball and stared at the floor. "Nothing. I can't contact her."
"You did what you could honey, don't worry. We'll find another way." Said Serena, embracing the little girl once more.
"All right, suggestions anybody?" inquired captain Vardeen, standing up and looking around. Nobody said a thing for a few minutes of uncomfortable silence, until Serena spoke up.
"Let me try something, captain. I might find a way out of here."
"Knowing you, I don't doubt you'll get us out of this situation, ambassador. Carry on." Said the captain, nodding in the direction of the helm. The officer there left his position, leaving it open for Serena to try whatever she had in mind.
Ushering Chibi-Usa towards the Senshi, Serena walked towards the station; instead of sitting down, she remained standing next to it. Grabbing the Ginzuishou once more, she closed her eyes and concentrated. The crystal began to glow softly, a gentle pulsing evident. Without opening her eyes, Serena finally said. "Captain… I'm not sure, but I can sense something out there."
"Impossible!" said the main scientist from his station. "Our sensors don't detect a thing!"
"Doctor, by now you should know that ambassador Moon can do the impossible on a daily basis." Commented the captain. He then addressed Serena. "Ambassador, take us there then. So far, that's the only clue we have."
"Yes captain." Still concentrating, she extended her left arm and let it hover on top of the helm's controls. Then, to the surprise of many, the controls activated by themselves! At the same time, the gentle vibration of the impulse engines was felt, indicating that the ship was moving.
"But… Serena… you can drive a space ship??" asked a dumbfounded Mars.
"But of course." Answered the captain. "She's one of the finest pilots I've ever seen."
"But… how can she operate the controls without touching them?" asked an astonished Mercury. She was so surprised that she forgot to scan the blonde.
"Telekinesis, what else? Now, let me concentrate, please." Answered Serena in a calm voice. That simple statement, however, sent another stake through the Senshi's hearts. It was becoming painfully clear to them that this person was a far cry from the gentle and klutzy girl they knew.
The bridge became silent after that, broken only by brief reports from all over the ship indicating the status of the different sections. An hour had passed according to the ship's clock before something happened.
"Captain, I'm receiving a faint echo in front of us." Reported the security officer.
"On screen." The image shifted to show a small speck of… something in it. "Magnify." Ordered the captain. The image then began to change, the size apparent of the strange object growing larger with each image shift, until it showed what it was.
"What the heck…" muttered Hathaway from his post. The main scientist had gone to the research wing to assist in the data refining of the Drive's modifications, leaving him on his place. "What is a door doing in the middle of nowhere?"
And that's what appeared in the screen. A door adorned with what appeared to be yellow moon crescents stood there, closed.
"The Time Gate…" muttered Catsy.
"That's it? That simple door is the famous Time Gate?" asked the captain, incredulous.
"Not so simple, captain." Reported Hathaway, shaking his head in disbelief. "I can't get any sensor readings from it besides its relative distance. Heck, I can't even determine its real size! Readings are jumping from zero to infinite… I've never seen anything like this before! According to sensor data, we shouldn't even be able to see it!"
His diatribe would have continued in that vein, but in that instant an alarm came to life from the security officer's console. "Sir! Incoming!" As soon as the words left his mouth the ship was rocked by a powerful impact, sending whoever was standing up to the floor.
"SHIELDS UP! ARM ALL WEAPONS!" screamed captain Vardeen. His order came in the nick of time. As soon as the shields were up another shot impacted them. "Damage report!"
"Structural breach on deck 12, damage control crews are working on it. Shields at 90% and holding, weapons armed and ready sir!"
"Find whatever is shooting at us and prepare to fire!" ordered the captain.
"Scanning… scanning… got it! On screen!" reported Hathaway. However, he gasped at what appeared on the screen. "What the…?"
"You have to be joking me…" murmured the security officer, blinking hard.
However, it was Chibi-Usa's exclamation of "PUU!!" what brought down the reality of the situation on their heads.
"THAT is Puu??" exclaimed the captain.
They all had good reason to be shocked. What appeared on the bridge's main screen was a woman, dressed in a fashion similar to the Senshi. Dark green hair, red eyes, tanned skin and holding what appeared to be a key-shaped staff was looking directly at them, the angle giving the illusion that she was staring at them directly from the screen. Then, to their shock, violet-colored energy began to gather on the heart-shaped top of the key until it formed a glowing violet sphere of energy. Once it grew to the size of a beach ball, it zoomed straight to the ship. The Lucky Star rocked one more upon impact.
"Captain, shields down to 75%! At this rate, she'll blow us in another four, five shots!" reported the security officer.
"Aim to that… woman and fire." Ordered the captain. Upon hearing that, Chibi-Usa ran to his side and grabbed his arm.
"NO!! You can't do that! She is my friend! Please, don't kill her!"
Captain Vardeen disengaged his arm from the girl's hold and stared at her. "That may be so, but she attacked us without provocation. She endangers the lives of all onboard this ship, including yours. Sorry, but I have to do this." He then addressed the security officer. "Aim frontal guns and fire."
"Captain! Energy spike detected next to the stranger!" reported Hathaway. "Sir… it's the Ethereal ambassador!"
"Hold your fire!" ordered the captain. He then stared hard at the screen. On it, after a flash of white light, the Ethereal ambassador appeared next to the strange woman, who turned around and confronted the Ethereal. "Damn… we can't fire with him so close. The shockwaves would kill him!"
"Captain, I'll go out." Exclaimed Serena, the Ginzuishou glowing fiercely on her hand. "That's my sensei, and I won't allow anyone to harm him."
"I'll go with you!" exclaimed Chibi-Usa, hurrying to Serena's side. Before the blonde could say a thing, the girl added. "She's my friend! I can convince her to stop attacking!"
"If you two are going, then we're going with you!" exclaimed Sailor Mars, walking towards Serena, the rest of the Senshi and Tuxedo Kamen following. "You may not like it, but we are going. Someone has to protect you. And nothing you say will stop us!"
Serena and Mars remained staring each other, none giving to the other. Finally, Serena nodded, much to the Senshi's relief. Turning her head just enough for her to look at captain Vardeen through her peripheral vision, Serena said. "Captain, permission to use teleport room 4."
"Granted. Besides, you would have done it despite me giving you permission or not." Said the captain, sighing. He then added. "However, if something happens, we're teleporting you back and then open fire with everything we got, understood?"
"Yes captain." Said Serena. Addressing the Senshi, she then said. "Let's go."
* * * *
Sailor Pluto, the guardian of the Time Gates, prepared to shoot once more at the intruder. She had been extremely busy repairing the rifts on the time stream created by the passage of the Dark Moon Family, so when Chibi-Usa called she hadn't been able to answer. Besides, she was sure that the little girl was safe in the past, so there was no need for that. She had barely had time to regain her energy when the time stream shifted once more. Thinking that it was the Dark Moon Family once more, she prepared mentally to stop them once and for all.
What she didn't expect was the appearance of another ship, its design like anything she had ever seen in her entire existence. Not wanting to take any chances, she launched a Death Scream at them as soon as the ship was in shooting range; she watched with satisfaction as her first shot blew open a hole in the side of it. However, she fumed when a strange energy field around it reflected the next two. Undaunted, she prepared to launch an even more powerful shot when, all of a sudden, a strange robed figure appeared next to her. Aiming the Time Key to the new arrival, she asked.
"Identify yourself."
(There is no need for violence, child.) Transmitted the Ethereal. (We mean neither harm nor conflict to you. We are here to help.)
"It is my duty as guardian of the Time Gates to prevent the entrance of anybody." Answered Pluto, showing no surprise at the telepathic communication. "Whoever tries will meet certain destruction."
(So… you are willing to destroy whoever comes, but you are willing to break the rules of time by sending someone from the future to the past?) Inquired the Ethereal, undaunted.
"That is different!" snapped Pluto, preparing to destroy the being judging her. "I had to do it out of necessity! Now leave before I kill you!"
(You can't do it, child. You have forgotten the true purpose of your guardianship. You have to be reminded of that.) Was the Ethereal's answer.
"Death Scream" murmured Pluto, launching the energy she had gathered towards the Ethereal. But, to her utter surprise, the energy sphere simply dissipated upon coming no more than two feet to the Ethereal. Gritting her teeth, she tried once more. "Death Scream." And once more, the results were the same.
(So much power, so little patience. It's a shame, really.) Commented the Ethereal. (You have allowed your feelings to cloud your better judgment, child. You have sacrificed life in the name of duty. A real shame.)
"SHUT UP! What do you know of what I've been through!?!? You have no idea of what my position implies! Death Scream." Pluto tried once more her attack, but the results remained the same.
(But I know child, I know. More than you can ever imagine.) Responded the Ethereal, unmoving.
Pluto was so concentrated in trying to destroy the Ethereal that she didn't notice seven columns of light appearing behind her; that is, until a voice she didn't expect to hear so soon brought her out of her concentration.
"PUU! Please stop, they are my friends!" Pluto didn't have time to turn around before a small body attached itself to her leg. Looking down, she stared at Chibi-Usa, who was looking at her with pleading eyes. "Puu, please… no more. Don't hurt them."
"Small Lady, I have to do it." Said Pluto, placing a hand on top of the girl's head. "Nobody can cross the Time Gate."
"So… this is what the Senshi become after my absence?" said a new voice. Turning around, Pluto looked at a blonde young woman dressed in a gray and dark blue uniform who was staring hard at her. "Shooting at possible allies without asking questions. 'Lovely' policy, so fitting. I have half a mind of stripping you all of your powers."
"And who are you?" asked Pluto, aiming the Time Key in the blonde's direction. She hadn't watched the time stream due to the current emergency, so she didn't know what had happened to Usagi. Contrary to what most believe, she didn't watch everything in the time stream, only the most relevant events, and even then, not all.
"How dare you talk to Usagi like that??" screamed Sailor Mars, hurrying to stand in front of Serena.
Noticing Mars' presence, Pluto took notice of the rest of the Senshi. She opened her mouth as if to say something, but no words came out. She gave a thorough visual examination to the young woman the Senshi of Mars was defending, finally noticing the details. The eyes, the face, the way she stood… yes, she was the reincarnated princess, but why wasn't she wearing the royal hairstyle? "But… her hair…"
"I cut it, what about it? And don't talk as if I'm not here, those are bad manners." Said Serena, narrowing her gaze. She really didn't like the attitude of this Senshi.
Pluto looked shocked upon hearing those words. No one in the history of the royal family had ever cut her hair! Doing that was a sure sign of renouncing their heritage, and the last princess of the moon kingdom had done precisely that! But before she could reorder her thoughts, two more light columns appeared behind the Senshi. In a moment, the columns condensed and disappeared, revealing two new arrivals. One was apparently a man wearing some kind of space suit and porting a REALLY big gun. The other one…
"YOUMA!" screamed Pluto. The appearance of a cat-like creature out of a column of light was more than enough to set her back into battle mode. She then prepared to blast the demon. "Death Scre… OOOF!"
Noticing that Pluto was about to kill Luna-F, Serena let her battle reflexes take care of the situation. Without thought, she moved at amazing speed towards the time Senshi; in one swift movement she grabbed the Time Key while at the same time hitting the Senshi with a beautiful double air kick aimed to the chest. The force of the impact forced Pluto to lose her grasp of the Time Key, at the same time ending up flying backwards and landing unceremoniously on her rump. Before she could stand up, the muzzle of an active gun appeared in her vision field. What made up her mind was that, behind him, the weapons ports of the ship were glowing, a VERY good indication that they were aimed towards her. Without her Key, she was sure she didn't stand a chance to survive such an attack.
"Don't move lady. Don't make me shoot your beautiful face." Said Syl.
"Sere, are you all right?" inquired Luna-F, moving to Serena's side and assuming a battle stance. "What the heck is going on?"
"That is what I want to know myself." Said Serena, handing the Time Key to a surprised Venus. "Now, can somebody explain to us what the HELL IS GOING ON HERE??"
"Did you have to hit Puu so hard??" asked Chibi-Usa, unable to believe that someone, much less Serena, was able to hit the mighty Sailor Pluto.
"She was going to kill Luna. And before that, she tried to kill my sensei, not to mention my crewmates and the destruction of our ship. So yes, I had to do it." Answered Serena.
(There is no need for more violence.) Transmitted the Ethereal. He then addressed Syl. (Now young man, if you are kind enough to let her stand, I'm sure we'll have all our answers.)
Nodding, Syl took a couple of steps back, but he never let his aim waver. Without looking at him, Pluto stood up, gathering what remained of her dignity. A part of her mind was fuming at the treatment she had received, but a bigger one was proud of her princess. She had demonstrated that she had all the necessary qualities that would be needed in the future. Although there was one little detail that bothered her, and it didn't have anything to do with the princess. The words that young man said about her beautiful face… they stirred something in her, but Pluto wasn't sure what it was. She dismissed the thought for the time being since there were more important matters at hand.
"All right, now that we are all calmed down, let's get some answers." Said Serena. "Who are you, and why did you attack us?"
Kneeling down and looking at the 'ground', Pluto answered. "My princess. I'm Sailor Pluto, guardian of the Time Gate. I apologize for attacking you, but it is my duty to protect the time stream from intruders."
"Ok, that's swell and dandy," commented Luna-F, "but does that position give you the right to blast everything in sight? Come on! Not even this group of girls is that bad!" Pluto tensed upon hearing that, but Serena's next words stopped her.
"That's enough everybody. Now Pluto, stand up." Once the Senshi of Time was on her feet once more, Serena continued. "Now, what's the story behind all this? Why did you send Chibi-Usa back in time, and what is her connection with the Dark Moon Family? Why are they so intent on capturing her?"
Pluto debated with herself for a few minutes, deciding what to tell. She didn't want to reveal too much information due to the risk of a time paradox, therefore only a few details could be said. Her reverie was interrupted by the Ethereal's words.
(Perhaps I can help. Sailor Pluto, with your permission, I can create a mental link between you and all present. That will expedite the exchange of information.) Noticing her reluctance, he added. (No, I won't show them everything you know, only what you want them to know.)
"That's a good idea Sensei." Commented Serena, nodding. "Pluto, do you agree?"
"My princess… do you trust this… being??" asked a shocked Pluto.
"Completely." Serena said with total conviction. That single word packed so much force and strength that Pluto couldn't do anything but agree.
"Very well, my princess." Pluto then addressed the Ethereal. "All right, what do I have to do?"
(You only have to open your mind and think of what you want to say. I'll handle the rest.)
Closing her eyes, Pluto concentrated. Once she had the images fixed in her mind's eye, she said. "Go."
In that instant, a whole set of images, sensations and words entered the minds of everybody present. Unknown to them, the same was happening on board the Lucky Star. All onboard the ship were having the exact same experience as the Senshi and company.
The mental link transmitted the future of Earth and the role the Senshi and Serena played on it. The arrival of a new ice age that sent all of humanity into hibernation for a thousand years. How Serena used the Ginzuishou to revive the planet and guide mankind to a new golden age. The creation of Crystal Tokyo and Serena's ascension to power, becoming Neo-Queen Serenity. How the few people that didn't accept her reign were exiled to the farthest planet beyond Pluto's orbit, the planet Nemesis. How they grew in power and mounted an assault against Earth, the attack ruthless and merciless. How during the final assault, the Neo-Queen got trapped inside a crystal prison created by a combination of dark power and the Senshi's attempt to protect her. How, in a move to force the Neo-Queen to surrender, the Dark Moon Family tried to capture Chibi-Usa, forcing Pluto to send the little girl to past so the Senshi of that era could protect her.
All that information was transmitted and assimilated in the lapse of a few seconds.
Once it was over, everybody shook their heads trying to regain their mental focus. The first one to talk was Jupiter. "Whoa… all that is true?"
(Yes, young one. Everything you experienced is true.) The Ethereal answered.
"Well, that settles it." Said Serena. Addressing Chibi-Usa, she added. "I promised that I'd help your family, and I'm going to do just that." She couldn't help but smile at seeing the radiant smile the little girl sent her way. She then addressed Pluto. "So, will you help us go there?"
"Yes, my princess." Pluto then addressed Venus. "Can you give me my key, please?"
"Only if you promise not to attack us again." Said the blonde Senshi.
"I promise." Said Pluto, sighing. Satisfied, Venus handed her the Time Key. Once in her hands, Pluto pointed the Key towards the Time Gate, concentrating on the task at hand. Without warning, a series of small balls of light came out of the Key and entered the keyhole of the Gate. Then, without a noise, they began to open. At first, a blinding white light came out of the Gate, forcing everybody to look away; it didn't last long. Finally, once the Gate was completely open, they looked at it… and noticed a seemingly infinite passageway bordered with Greek-looking columns.
"Now go. But be warned, the time stream can be very dangerous. Don't get out of the path, or you will be lost in time forever. Use the time key Small Lady used to guide you."
"Will do Pluto, and thank you for your help." Said Serena. She then addressed Luna-F. "Call the ship to beam us all up. Let's not waste more time."
"Only you and the Senshi can go, my princess. That ship has to remain here." Said Pluto, frowning a little.
Serena took a sharp breath upon hearing that. Thinking about what to do for a few moments, she turned around slightly until she faced Chibi-Usa. Making sure that nobody else could see her, she winked to the little girl. Without waiting for an answer, she then addressed Pluto directly.
"That is no good. Either we all go, or nobody goes. Then you can kiss the future goodbye."
"You better comply to her," commented Syl when he noticed Pluto's gasp upon hearing that, "once she gets an idea on that pretty head, there's no force in the universe that can change her mind."
Pluto turned in his direction; if looks could kill, he would have died a thousand times in a few seconds. However, when she noticed the stern expression on Serena's face, she deflated. "Very well… you all can go."
"I appreciate your kind cooperation, Pluto." Said Serena, smiling. She then nodded to Luna-F, who took her communicator out and activated it.
"This is ensign Luna calling the Lucky Star. Beam us up!"
(I will remain here for the time being.) Transmitted the Ethereal. Before anyone could say a thing, he added. (I will catch up with you shortly. There is something I have to do here first. And Pluto, don't worry. I won't interfere with the time stream in any way, you have my word.)
"Trust him, Pluto. He doesn't give his word lightly." Said Serena. She had enough time to see Pluto nod before everything was enveloped in a brilliant blue light.
Once they were onboard, Serena ordered the Senshi to go back to their quarters and wait for her call. Reluctantly, they obeyed. Once she was sure they were gone, Serena, Syl and Luna-F headed to the bridge. Upon arrival, captain Vardeen addressed Serena.
"That was a fine job, ambassador. I'm really impressed."
"Thank you captain."
"But where is the Ethereal ambassador? He wasn't with you when you were beamed up." Inquired the captain.
"He said he had some business to attend. Don't worry, he said he'd catch up with us; and I'm sure he'll do it, so there is no need to worry."
"If you say so…" said the captain, not fully convinced but in the end he decided to let it pass. "So, what now?"
"We need the time key in the Jump Drive. It will guide us through the time stream towards our destination." Answered Serena.
"With pleasure! I don't want that thing inside my Drive anyway!" commented the chief engineer with a relieved sigh, issuing the order to the engine room to bring the little key to the bridge. Three minutes later, an aide brought it to the bridge, handing it to Serena.
"Now captain, all we have to do is head to the Time Gate and cross. I'll use the key to guide us." Said Serena.
"But… how are we going to cross? The ship will demolish that little thing upon approaching!" said Hathaway, his words hardly understandable due to his jaw hanging.
"Everything is taken care of, don't worry." Was Serena's answer.
"Very well… things can't be more bizarre than they already are." Commented captain Vardeen, sighing. "Helm, aim the ship to the… Gate and take us through it."
"Yes, sir." Said the navigation officer, his voice full of doubt. In a few moments, the view on the main screen shifted to indicate the Star was heading directly to the Gate. When they were only a few yards away, Hathaway noticed something on his instruments.
"Captain? I'm registering a quantum field coming from the Gate. I can't make sense of the readings… it's as if the Gate was… growing!" he raised his eyes from the console and looked at the main screen. That was the last straw. "Oh… my… God…"
On the view screen, the scene depicted showed the Time Gate approaching… and growing larger at the same time! It wasn't long before all that was seen was the passageway that Serena and company had witnessed.
"I should be surprised…" muttered the captain. "I should… but I'm not." Sighing, he addressed Serena. "All right ambassador, the ship's all yours. Guide us."
"Yes sir." Closing her eyes, Serena concentrated on the time key she was holding. It wasn't long before she felt a light tug coming from it. "All ahead, full."
"You heard the lady, helm. Ahead, full." Ordered the captain.
"Haye aye sir." Said the navigation officer, adjusting the trajectory.
"I don't know if it was my imagination, but did you notice something funny on that lady's eyes?" commented Syl to Serena and Luna-F.
"Like what?" asked Luna-F. "I was too busy making sure she didn't try anything funny."
"I noticed." Said Serena without losing her mental hold to the key. "Her eyes… they showed an incredible amount of loneliness."
"Yeah… along with what I think was longing." Added Syl. "I wonder what's her story?"
"We can ask her when we return." Finished Serena. She then addressed the helm. "Adjust trajectory. Two degrees starboard, three quarters impulse ahead."
"Haye aye ma'am!"
Sailor Pluto and the Ethereal watched as the Time Gate adjusted its size to allow the Lucky Star passage. Once the ship crossed it returned to its normal size and closed itself. Nobody said a word for a few minutes.
(I will take my leave now.) Transmitted the Ethereal. (Take care, Pluto.)
"Before you go, tell me. Who are you?" inquired Pluto.
(Like you, I have rules to follow. I can't tell you that, but your question will be answered in due time. Farewell.) With those words, the Ethereal began to walk away, his silhouette blurring with each step until finally, he was lost in the mist, leaving a puzzled Pluto behind.
Once he was sure that Pluto wasn't following him, the Ethereal stopped. Without turning around, he said. (Everything is in place. Now we wait.)
"Thank you, wise one. I don't know how to thank you for your help." Said a voice, definitely feminine and refined. From the Ethereal's right, a figure began to take form.
(Don't thank me. The result is still uncertain.)
"I know." Said the new arrival with a sigh. "In any case, the princess and her court will have a better chance now, thanks to you and your people."
(We only did what was necessary. The hard part was to correct the mistakes you did in the past, but we couldn't do a thing with what the princess' court did in the present. The princess hasn't forgiven them yet, and if she doesn't remember how to do it, then all will be lost.)
"I just hope she remembers." Said the figure.
(Let's hope she does, otherwise it will spell the end of all existence.) The Ethereal then turned around and faced his companion. At his mental command the mists moved away from the figure, revealing her to his gaze. (I have to go now. Farewell your majesty.)
"Farewell, wise one. And once again, thank you." Said Queen Serenity, bowing. The Ethereal returned the gesture. In an instant, he was enveloped in a white glow and in an eye-blink he was gone from the time stream.
Once more alone, Queen Serenity looked at the place the Ethereal stood for a few more moments, her silver hair and dress fluttering in a non-existent breeze. "My dear daughter… please, remember the goodness you carry in your heart. So much depends on it…"
With a heartfelt sigh, she turned around and walked away, her figure becoming transparent and diffuse with each step. It wasn't long before she disappeared. Once more, the time stream was empty, no trace of their presence remaining.
TO BE CONTINUED.
Author's notes:
Ok, first things first. Sorry for such a delay, but you all know that Fanfiction.net has been under heavy remodeling and wasn't able to post a thing. That, and having to fight both Real Life and Writer's Block can take its toll on inspiration, you know?
Come on, do you really expected me to send the whole Battle Group to the future along with Serena and the Senshi? Dream on! Such a powerful force would have killed the story in an eye blink, not to mention the Dark Moon Family! If you feel disappointed by it, sorry. And if not, that's great!
By now, you all know the drill. REVIEW PEOPLE!!! And if you can't review on FF, then e-mail me. The more you review, the easier will be to defeat that horrendous beast known as Writer's Block!
Special thanks are in order for Erin Finnlaith (a.k.a. Usagi Tsukino) and ShadowsDark for their help with the time key's activation Phrase. Thank you guys, you really helped me here!!! It's fans like you that help writers like me to continue writing!
And as always, a very special THANK YOU go to Yohann DeSabrais. His comments on the transit of the Star through the time rift were invaluable! Thank pal!!!
Ok… that's all for now. Later!