*** Hey there! It has been forever since I updated, and while this particular part of the story isn't done yet, I decided to post any ways. Reviews are always welcome. Please let me know what you think. Sailor Moon and all related characters are not mine, of course, however Sailor Star is and I ask you do not use her without my permission. Either way, on with the never-ending story! _ ***
Evening Star
With the Coming of the Dawn
Chapter 14
Aurora walked into the dark stables, not bothering to turn on the lights above Firewalker's stall by way of the light breaker off to the left of the Stable's main doors. She saw very little in fact as she walked passed stall after stall, her head bent, her mind lost in thought. It was Firewalker's soft whinny at her approach that drew Aurora out of her introspective mood. Lost silver eyes looked into the soft, concerned eyes of the white stallion.
"Firewalker…" Aurora trailed off, her long tapered fingers gently moving over the soft hair of Firewalker's forehead. With an air of detachment, Aurora's fingertips traced the outline of Firewalker's Star Mark, her eyes dark with remembrance.
"Firewalker…. I've done something terrible…"
~ ~ ~
Luna sat on the low black coffee table facing the lover of her charge, listening with a growing dread as he related his story of the past few hours. Luna felt cold with fear at knowing the truth of Sailor Star, her sharp, analytical mind trying desperately to make sense of the information, assimilate it, and use it to her advantage in protecting Serena.
Darien stopped with a sigh of defeat. He had not told Luna all of Aurora's personal details, but enough to keep the ever alert Guardian from suspecting that he was keeping something from her. Luna's reaction worried him though; she seemed to be taking the news rather badly. Had she heard of the Sorceress before? Did she know more than he on the dangers this new enemy posed? Or was it simply because she did not know that worried her so?
"What should I tell them Luna? Serena and the others? If I tell them everything, they might panic, as you are now," Darien looked at Luna's surprised expression through slightly narrowed eyes, "and if I don't tell them…"
"They'll think you betrayed them, especially Serena," Luna finished, her tone cold.
Luna watched as Darien tensed his muscles and lifted his long frame off of his leather couch, and with a restless air, walk to the balcony doors to look out. She had the distinct feeling that something was missing from Darien's recount of the afternoon, but decided not to press it – not yet at least. With a sigh, she answered his question.
"You have to tell them, there's no way to avoid that. Mercury will want to run scans and I want to start formulating new training sequences for the girls in order to prepare them. There's a threat to Serena and this Earth and the Scouts need to be aware of it. Why would you even question telling them?" Luna demanded, albeit a bit harder than she'd intended and regretted it when she saw Darien flinch ever so slightly.
"I'm not sure. Perhaps because I don't really have any true answers. I can neither confirm nor deny Rei's or Serena's opinion of her, I can not tell them where to find this Sorceress, and outside of running from her minions, I can not tell them how to protect themselves from her power. The only reassurance I can offer them is that Aurora will protect them if or when the Sorceress attacks, and we both know that will come as little comfort to Mars or Jupiter. Thankfully however, from what Serena told me, Venus and Mercury seem to be on Aurora's side," Darien sighed, "You know the girls best Luna, you and Artemis. I wanted to make sure that telling them really was the best course of action."
Luna watched the shoulders of the Earth Prince slump ever so slightly. She bowed her head in momentary shame as she came to the realization that Darien had asked her here seeking her guidance on the matter and all she was doing was throwing it back in his face. Luna appreciated Darien's recognition that she and Artemis were the girl's appointed counselors and for respecting that position enough to come to her first.
Swallowing her pride, Luna offered in an apologetic tone, "You were right to come to me first Darien, and I appreciate it. I'm sorry for my shortness; this matter of Sailor Star is quite unsettling."
Darien turned to look at Luna then, a small smile of thanks crossing his sharp, masculine features.
"I know what you mean, Luna," Darien said more so to himself as he turned back to the view of Tokyo in early evening.
"They have to be told. They may be young, but all of them are experienced warriors. They are more than capable of coming to their own conclusions on the matter and acting accordingly. If you'd rather, I can tell them," Luna offered, hoping Darien would refuse. It would be better coming from him. It was he that talked to the young woman after all. Darien did not disappoint her.
"No, it would be better coming from me. I don't want them thinking I'm hiding something."
Returning to his place on the couch, Darien reached over and pet the black feline, mostly out of comfort for himself. He'd always loved cats. Luna for her part let him, somehow knowing the reason for the unexpected gesture.
His hand dropping from scratching her neck gently, Darien asked with another tired sigh, "So you know nothing of this Sorceress Luna?"
Luna shook her head, "No. I don't remember Serenity speaking of any such force."
"So, outside of what Aurora told me, we have nothing more to go on do we?"
"I'm afraid not," Luna responded with a sigh of her own.
"Should we call a meeting now or wait 'til morning?"
Luna took a moment to consider. It was after 6 p.m.
"No, I think its best to call a meeting now, while all the facts are fresh and straight in both our minds."
"Here or the temple?"
Luna looked back in surprise, then around the meticulously kept apartment with its sleek black leather furniture, mahogany wood tables and chairs, and strategically placed houseplants.
"You want to bring five teenage girls into this apartment?" Luna gave him a look that made it clear to Darien that Luna was questioning his sanity at the moment.
The tall man laughed lowly, a rumbling chuckle that was far too unintentionally seductive for its own good. Luna found herself shaking her head.
Note to self, Luna thought sardonically to herself, Talk to Serena about Birth Control sooner rather than later…
"So, the temple then," Darien asked with humor filled eyes.
"Yes," Luna returned, smiling despite herself.
"Alright then," Darien stood up once more, heading for his car keys, "We'll pick up Serena at her place, then the others if need be."
Luna cleared her throat after Darien failed to notice her standing by the telephone.
"It would be a good idea to call ahead first. That will give Serena the chance to get ready and call the other girls and alert them to the meeting. Besides," Luna added in a knowing tone, "That way you wont have to actually go into her house to explain things, risking the wrath of her father."
Luna had to suppress a fit of laughter at the abject horror that crossed Darien's face at the mention of Serena's father.
"Point taken Luna," Darien added hastily as he moved to pick up the phone. Luna stopped him momentarily.
"Its good to have you back, Darien," Luna admitted softly, "Your presence has been sorely missed."
Darien looked away in modest acceptance of Luna's compliment, "Thank you Luna. I've missed being a part of everything."
With a motherly smile, Luna brushed up against Darien's hand in a gesture of affection and moved aside so he could call Serena.
The phone rang a few times before a mature female voice came over the line, "Hello?"
"Hello," Darien responded warmly, "Would Serena be in?"
~ ~ ~
They were back by the brook, the same small running body of water by which they'd both stood before rushing off to the aid of the Moon Princess. It was dark now, the stars shinning brightly. Aurora could see her Star, easily distinguishing it from the countless others shinning in the heavens. Intermediately, she could see it flash its characteristic ruby red.
She had transformed once Firewalker and she had reached the clearing, needing to hear his voice. Right now they lied by the side of the brook that was more so a river, in a patch of grass, Sailor Star resting against the side of her giant Guardian, legs stretched out in front of her.
She'd spent well over an hour telling Firewalker everything that had transpired between Darien and herself, and now awaited his judgement on her actions. She feared, for some inexplicable reason, his anger and disgust at her weakness. Aurora knew that was ridiculous, but the fear was there all the same.
Firewalker sensed her unrest.
You did nothing wrong Aurora, Firewalker's deep voice, calming and soothing, caressed her mind, allowing her to let go of the tension that had laid claim to her body.
"How can you be so sure? I just might have killed Serena with my actions today," Aurora closed her eyes in anguish. Why hadn't she just walked away?
I wouldn't be so sure of that, Aurora. The Universe has gone to great lengths to keep the Moon Princess safe; I doubt it will fail her now when she needs its protection the most.
Aurora chuckled humorlessly, "And what if I am the Universe's idea of protection for her?"
Well then, all is doomed, Firewalker spoke simply. Aurora sat up straight and whipped around to look at her Guardian in mock outrage and annoyance. Slapping him hard on his front right shoulder, Aurora fumed.
"I'm being serious here!"
Firewalker knew she was all but holding back the laughter.
So am I, He replied in mock innocence.
Aurora glared, "Don't even try that innocent act with me, Firewalker!"
She felt more than heard the deep rumble of his laugh. She laughed with him.
Let's not worry about want may happen. If you concern yourself with Serena too much, you'll be distracted and vulnerable when the Sorceress attacks next. Worry about your mission first, not the off hand chance of the Sorceress taking interest in the Scouts. We'll jump off that bridge when we get to it.
Aurora settled back against Firewalker's massive side, heeding his advice carefully. He was right of course, he's always right. She was letting this ordeal with the Scouts become a distraction. The Sorceress may not even know about her run in with the Scouts and Darien, and if she did, she may not even care. It would be better to put that worry aside and concentrate on the matter at hand – finding the last two crystals – and worry about the Scouts when there is serious cause too. Besides, exams were coming up in a week and a half, and she had yet to start studying.
"You're right Firewalker. I've got to start focusing my attention to matters at hand. I'll worry about the Scouts if or when the Sorceress attacks them, because until that happens, my hands are tied. I can't rightfully send them off the planet, which would be about the only safe place I could think to send them!"
Firewalker chuckled, That is very true…
~ ~ ~
"Alright Luna, what is it you wanted to talk to us about?" Serena asked in earnest once all of the girls had arrived at the Temple. Serena had been particularly puzzled when Darien had called, asking her to summon the girls to the temple for a meeting, but hadn't questioned it after learning that Luna was with him. Now that everyone was here, she wanted answers.
"Not Luna, Serena," Darien spoke up, "Me."
"Is there some kind of danger, Darien?" Amy asked, her tone direct and professional.
At Amy's question, Serena felt her heart begin to pound out of panic and fear.
No, not now! I've just gotten Darien back! There can't be a problem; there can't be danger!
Serena felt the telltale tears come to her eyes. Quickly she diverted her gaze away from everyone so as not to draw on Rei's wrath for being such a crybaby.
Why can't we be happy for just a little while… Serena sighed to herself.
Serena's reaction did not go unnoticed by Darien, however, and getting up from his position by the rice paper door, he sat down next to Serena and put his arm around her. Serena started at the sudden, open gesture but settled into his embrace quickly and easily. She gently placed her head on his shoulder. Darien took that as a sign to continue.
"I'm not sure Amy," Darien replied reluctantly, looking down upon Serena resting against him. He felt her tense at his words.
Taking his eyes off his petite love, Darien looked around at the room full of young female warriors. Clearing his throat, and with one last look at Luna, he began.
"I have something I need to tell all of you. I'm going to ask that you let me finish before asking any questions. Can you do that?" Darien looked at each in turn.
After a moment of silence, Rei answered for all of them.
"Yes Darien, we can do that."
~ ~ ~
Aurora slipped out of her school uniform and into the hot bath she had run herself. She shivered as the overheated water flowed over her chilled skin as she lowered herself into the porcelain basin. First dipping her head under to wet her hair fully, she rested her head against the sloped back of the basin, designed especially for bath lovers. She sighed contentedly as the hot water did its work relieving her tension filled muscles, allowing her to relax.
She hadn't wanted her evening out with Firewalker to end. After their discussion about Darien and the Scouts, they had fallen into light banter and relaxing small talk about anything and everything. It lightened her heart to no end to be able to talk to Firewalker as one would talk to their best friend or brother, without the stress and strain of her duties as Sailor Star. They had waded into the river near the end of it, splashing each other playfully. It had been great fun, but had landed Aurora with a chill she couldn't quite get rid of. Hence the bath.
Closing her eyes, Aurora forced her mind blank. Leaving her alone to think was a dangerous thing. If she didn't keep her train of thoughts in check, Aurora could easily have herself panic filled and riddled with anxiety in a matter of moments. Right now, she just wanted to enjoy the state of blissful ignorance that had fallen over her.
With a sigh of contentment, Aurora lowered her head 'til all but her eyes and nose were submersed in the hot water, and for a little while, forgot about the world around her.
~ ~ ~
Silence. It resounded throughout the Temple room. Each young woman was lost in her own thoughts.
It had taken Darien nearly an hour to explain to the girls exactly what he had explained to Luna about his encounter with the ever-elusive Sailor Star. Now that he was finished, he waited pensively for the young female warriors' reactions.
"Well, what the fuck are we supposed to make of that?!" Rei was the first to break the silence, her temper flaring to its full fiery potential.
"Rei!", Serena exclaimed, "After everything Darien just told us, you can't possibly still consider her an enemy?"
Serena looked at her raven hair protector with disbelief in her wide cerulean eyes.
Rei returned her gaze with fire.
"You're not serious, Serena!" Rei gestured sharply to Darien, "She had your boyfriend on the ground with her hand at his throat! She fucking near killed him Serena, and you're going to defend her?!"
Serena sat up straight, her own eyes now blazing.
"But she didn't kill Darien, Rei, she stopped! She had felt threatened! She reacted just as any one of us would have! How can you condemn her for that?"
Amy's brow shot up at Serena use of vocabulary, but was wise enough to keep quiet.
"Easily!" Rei hissed, "That could have been you she walked past in the street, Serena! That could have been you she had pinned to the ground, strangling to death. Except you might not have been so lucky as to have her recognize you before she killed you!"
Rei was right in front of Serena now, her violet gaze hard and demanding. Serena meet her gaze head on.
"I understand how bad the situation looks Rei, but don't forget, it was my boyfriend she nearly killed and if I can forgive her for it, so can you."
"And how can you forgive her, Serena?" Rei shot back.
"Because she stopped Rei. Don't you understand the significance of that? She could have killed Darien, even after she recognized him but she didn't. She stopped," Serena stood up to look Rei better in the eye, trying to get her point through to the Martian Princess, "She had felt threatened. She reacted to that threat, and when she realized she was wrong, she backed off. She didn't have to, but she did. She made a mistake Rei! She apologized for it, for Heaven's sake!"
"As if saying I'm sorry is supposed to make it all better?" Rei countered, her tone mocking.
"Serena has a point, Rei," Lita spoke up. When the priestess turned on her Jovan friend in outrage, Lita held her hands up.
"Look, I don't like the situation any more than you do. If I'd come across her in that glen, I'd have kicked her ass," Lita spoke harshly, her eyes glinting, "But she did stop Rei. And on top of that, she apologized for it – profusely."
"Yeah, Rei," Mina added, her tone somewhat sarcastic, "That isn't exactly the way of evil doers. They usually just keep on killing you."
Rei closed her eyes for a moment, and took a deep breath. Standing as she was in the middle of the room, all eyes were on her, waiting for her reaction. Finally, she spoke.
"So what are you guys saying? That we should just over look the fact that she damn near killed the reigning Monarchy of this planet because her parents are dead?" Rei's sarcasm was thick.
"Rei," Darien finally spoke up, his tone soft and level, "I appreciate your concern over my life. And you make a good point of saying that it could have been Serena out there with Aurora today instead of me. But it wasn't Serena and Aurora didn't kill me. I think we need to look past that incident for the moment and concentrate on the rest of the information she told me."
Amy smiled in appreciation for Darien's calm demeanor and sound logic, "I agree with Darien, Rei. There is much more important matters to discuss right now than a bad situation that has come and gone, of which we can do nothing about."
"Fine," Rei bit out, and turned to take her place once more on her low standing wooden bench. Serena watched her closely.
"Before we get into it all guys, Rei just answer one question," Serena waited until Rei's eyes came up to her own, "Why do you still not trust Sailor Star? Despite the obvious…"
Rei held Serena's gaze for a few moments. Luna and Artemis watched both of the girls carefully, as did the rest of the group, eager to know the priestess' reasons.
Rei sighed, the fight visibly leaving her body.
"You can't sense from her what I can, Serena. There is an intrinsic darkness within her that is very strong. She's fighting it, but it's a war she won't win," Rei spoke softly, looking into Serena's eyes, pleading for her understanding.
"I'm not doing this out of jealous or spite," Rei continued solemnly, "I am seriously afraid of what Sailor Star will be capable of when the darkness inside her takes over. I don't want you or any one of us around when it happens. If she wants us to stay away from her, then that's what I believe we should do. Take her advice on protecting ourselves from this Sorceress, by all means; it's sound advice, I won't dispute that. But leave it at that.
Rei looked into Serena's eyes, her own somewhat defeated, "Don't go trying to save her, Serena, just let it be. The darkness inside of her can't be dispelled; all it will do is grow stronger. Let her go on with her life and her mission. And if her enemy becomes a problem to us, well, we'll just have jump off that bridge when we get to it."
Mina quietly thought over Rei's words, "How do you know the darkness within her can't be expelled?"
The fiery young woman looked to her friend, "Because it is a part of her, and most likely always has been. I know this because I can sense it. The roots of the evil go deep into her soul; removing it would kill her."
Silence fell once more over the group. Serena kept her eyes on Rei, though if the Martian Princess noticed, she gave no sign of it. Serena had never known Rei to admit she was afraid, of anything. The fact that she was expressing her fear over Sailor Star made Serena pause. The more Darien had revealed of Aurora's nature, the more Serena had begun to hope that Rei was wrong; that Sailor Star wasn't evil, just hurt and angry, tired and alone. It seemed now that that wasn't the case, though Serena couldn't bring herself to believe that the powerful young woman who had saved her life and Darien's was destined to fall into darkness.
"She had stated explicitly that she was not an enemy of ours, that if she was, Darien would be dead. Can you at least concede that that is the truth Rei, that she is not our enemy?" Amy prompted, trying to find some common ground.
"I agree that she isn't," Lita answered, "But I also agree with Rei that we should not go looking for trouble. If Aurora wants us to stay away, then we stay away. This isn't our battle, and I'm not prepared to risk Serena's life in order to get closer to her. Sailor Star would know best concerning her own enemy. Aurora's been fighting this Sorceress for two years now, on her own. Just because she's in Tokyo doesn't mean she's suddenly incapable of fighting alone and is in need of our help."
Amy nodded her agreement, "Yes Lita that's true. If she has been fighting this Sorceress alone for so long, and surviving the battles, I highly doubt she is in any need of our help. Our interference in her battle might only come as a hindrance."
Mina studied the quiet priestess closely, "So what do you think Rei? Can you at least agree she isn't an enemy of ours?"
"I can agree that she isn't an enemy of ours yet – but that she has the potential to be," Rei answered, her voice clear but emotionless, her eyes fixed on her hands.
"Can we all agree that it is best to leave Sailor Star to her own war, as she's asked us?" Lita asked dryly, continuing Amy's efforts to define a common ground on the issue.
"No," Serena spoke quietly, "No, I can't leave someone to suffer, not when I feel I can do something to help them."
Serena looked up and held the eyes of each of her Guardians in defiance. Rei sighed heavily in annoyance.
"Gods, Serena! Why do you have to be so stubborn! Just what do you think you can do for her? She's asked to be left alone. I would consider that doing as she's asked would be the greatest help," Rei said harshly, her eyes flashing.
Serena kept quiet for a moment.
"Aurora asked for us to stay out of her fight, and I will respect her wishes. But mark me, if she ever comes and asks for our help, for my help, I will not turn her away," Serena spoke with indisputable authority, "I can't do that, leave someone to suffer alone. I would hope, when it comes down to it, neither would any of you."
The girls all bowed their heads in thought.
"If she asked for it, I would help her," Mina conceded. Amy nodded her head slowly.
"Myself included."
Lita and Rei remained silent. Serena looked at both of them, waiting for their response. When none was forth coming, Serena asked them directly.
"And you Lita? Rei?"
After another moment of silence, Lita answered with a sigh.
"It would depend on the situation Serena – exactly what she needed my help with and how much of a threat would be placed upon you if I did help her."
Rei continued on in silence.
"Rei?" Serena prompted, hopeful.
"No, Serena. I wouldn't help her. Helping her would place you in danger, and as your Guardian, I couldn't do that. Aurora was very quick to make the distinction that she was not one of us – that her loyalties lie else where. I can't be placing your life in danger for the sake of someone that has no connection to us or to you, someone who might turn on us with time. I'm sorry."
Rei held Serena's hurt filled gaze for as long as her heart could stand it, then looked away. Another silence fell over the temple.
~ ~ ~
Aurora towel dried her hair as she walked out of the steamy warmth of her private bathroom into her chill filled dorm room. There were no lights on, only the moonlight gave Aurora the ability to navigate her way to her dresser, pulling out a T-shirt and PJ bottoms. The cool air chilled her bare flesh, still wet from the bath. Quickly, dropping the towel she used to dry her hair, Aurora pulled on the clothes, warming slightly. With a tired smile of satisfaction, Aurora turned down her bed covers and crawled in. Her mind and body was languid, not from worry or stress, just tired.
Peacefully, Aurora pulled the covers up around herself and closed her eyes.
Sleep soon took her.
~ ~ ~
"Darien, what is your opinion of Aurora?" Amy asked in hopes of breaking the tension filled silence that had settled over them. She had noticed the dark man's silence and wondered about it.
Darien looked a little startled at the question, obviously not expecting it. Serena now sat on his lap, his arms around her. Three of the four Guardians had watched as he had gathered her up into his arms after her confrontation with Rei, which had obviously left her a bit shaken. Rei, for her part, had not looked up from her close scrutiny of her hands since.
Darien felt Serena move her head against his chest to better look at his face, waiting for his answer. He considered for a moment, then attempted to explain.
"I can understand Rei's reserve," Darien said finally, holding Rei's gaze when she looked up in surprise at his support.
"Really, Darien?" Serena asked, her voice thick with emotion. Closing her eyes, Serena willed away the tears. Why did everything always have to be so complicated? Why was everyone so ready to condemn someone they hardly knew?
"Yes, Serena," Darien sighed quietly, "I saw the lethal intent in Aurora's eyes when she attacked me; Aurora has the makings of a ruthless killer, of that I have no doubt. I could feel pain radiating from her in waves. There was such anger in her…"
Darien shook his head slightly, his handsome face marred by a look of consternation and furrowed brows, "I saw first hand the darkness Rei is warning you about. I can understand and condone her belief that Aurora is dangerous. I believe Aurora is dangerous - but only to her enemies. As of yet, that short list doesn't include us.
But there is also light," Darien spoke softly, looking directly at the Soldier of Fire, "I believe there is a light within Aurora, just as there is a darkness. When she all but begged forgiveness for attacking me, when she stood firm on protecting Serena and all of you at the cost of her own well being, I saw hope and light in her. Aurora has known very little happiness in her life. Perhaps the darkness is so strong in her because she has never been given the chance to nurture the light within her and let it grow stronger."
When Rei could only purse her lips in skepticism, Darien continued.
"Put yourself in her place Rei, just for one moment. Imagine that Luna only revived your powers when the Dark Kingdom attacked. Imagine that there was no Sailor Moon, no Mercury, no Jupiter, no Venus, only you. Only you to fight against Beryl's Generals; only you to fight Beryl's monstrosities; only you to find, collect and protect the seven rainbow crystals so that the Silver Crystal could be brought forth and the Moon Princess found. Imagine fighting alone against a force you know you can not defeat, with no one to fall back on when you're injured in battle and no one to confide in and draw strength from when there seems to be little or no hope. Imagine doing this for years alone, living every day with the knowledge that if you fail, if you fall in battle and don't keep getting back up, if you fail to stay one step ahead of Beryl, the world as you know it will be lost.
Now imagine Luna comes to you and says she could give you the opportunity to fight along side a group of warriors just like yourself, a team of soldiers that would fight with you against Beryl. You wouldn't be alone anymore; the fate of the world wouldn't rest on your shoulders alone, any longer. If you failed, there would be someone to keep on fighting. Would you be able to say no, Rei? After everything you suffered, would you be able to say no? Would any of you?"
Darien opened the question to all of them, but each of the girls remained silent. Darien felt Serena grasp his shirt tightly as her arms wound themselves around his waist. A silent thank you.
Rei exhaled slowly.
"I don't know," she admitted softly, her eyes adverted has she found the strength and confidence to answer Darien truthfully, "I don't know what I would do. The battle with Beryl was by far the single most difficult thing I had ever faced. There were so many times when, if it hadn't been for Mercury, or Jupiter, and then finally Venus, I would have fallen at the hands of the enemy."
"So many times it all seemed so hopeless," Rei's voice wavered, she eyes fixed on the floor beneath her feet, "And to have faced all of it without Sailor Moon, without the one person I knew could finally defeat Beryl…"
Each of the other Guardians watched as a tremor ran down the length of the priestess' body, knowing it was out of fear, feeling such a fear themselves. The hopelessness of such a situation as Darien had described was overwhelming.
"Well Rei," Darien spoke with all seriousness, "I gave Aurora one such offer."
Everyone in the room looked at him sharply with surprise in their eyes, even Luna. Darien had not mentioned such a thing to her.
Darien felt Serena lift her head off his chest in wonderment and confusion. He looked down at her, his eyes warm with love. Softly he ran his finger down his cheek, his chest tightening when she leaned into the caress.
"I couldn't leave her alone," Darien whispered quietly to the room, his eyes never leaving Serena's, "It seemed like such a terrible fate to leave her to face alone. She had spent hours arguing with me over the necessity to keep you away from her, to keep you safe, but when she turned to leave…."
Darien sighed as he raised his eyes to the rest of the room, his peripheral vision alerting him that Serena was still watching him closely.
"I couldn't let her go. It seemed so wrong…" Darien's brow furrowed as he tried to make sense of his own jumbled emotions as they pertained to Aurora, "I offered for her to come back with me, to talk to all of you personally. It was then, and is still now, my opinion that Serena would be safest with Aurora at her side. I expressed my view, giving her the chance to end her loneliness and ease her suffering. I offered her a team of allies, myself included, but she refused."
Darien looked at each of the young Guardians in turn, his eyes resting on Rei.
"She was more concerned about your lives, and Serena's above all else, than she was about herself. She turned away from me and my offer. That act of selflessness alone should be enough to convince you that there is still hope for her, Rei. She might not be beyond all limits of salvation yet."
Rei bowed her head in thought, serious thought. Perhaps…. No. She could not let Darien's hypothetical reasoning sway her from the truth of her senses. Aurora was a threat – the darkness in her was growing. Rei could no more ignore that fact than she could deny her destiny.
The whole room had grown silent in thought, each person lost in their own mind. As Serena leaned her head back against Darien's chest, she focused her senses on listening to his heart beat and breathing. There was such unmistakable power within him, in his body. Such beauty and strength, and he was hers – or was he?
Not for the first time since the truth of their past was reveled, Serena questioned her worthiness of Darien. He was after all, significantly older than she – by six years. She was just nearly fifteen, he was twenty. He was in control of his emotions, in control of his life. He was mature and intelligent; he was cultured and civilized – destined for greatness. She was none of these things.
Serena had paid close attention to Darien as he spoke of Aurora. It was obvious to her that he cared for this mysterious young woman, perhaps he even felt deeply for her. He had spoke of his meeting Aurora with a subdued passion, almost as if he was trying to keep himself in check – almost as if he had been trying to hide his emotions – but it was passion all the same. Serena couldn't blame him really. Aurora was very beautiful. She was graceful and intelligent, powerful and worldly – everything Darien was and Serena was not.
Unconsciously, Serena tightened her hold on Darien's waist. It did not go unnoticed by the Prince and he looked down at her. Tears were forming in her eyes; Serena couldn't bare the thought of it, but she had to face reality – she would most likely lose Darien. Given time, he would grow tired of her and her imperfections and leave her for a woman more befitting him. Serena swallowed a sob of pain. All at once her heart was breaking. Not trusting herself, she all but jerked away from Darien's soft fingers trying to tip her chin up so he could see into her eyes. Whispering a broken apology and making some excuse of needing air, Serena unwrapped her arms from Darien and walked quickly out into the gardens of the temple.
The girls watched Serena leave, confusion crossing their faces. Had she really been so upset over her confrontation with Rei? Mina was about to get up to go after her, concern flashing in her eyes when Darien motioned for her to stay. Mina caught a glimpse of Darien's troubled expression and turbulent blue eyes as he looked after the retreating form of his young girlfriend.
"I'll go talk to her," Darien spoke to Mina and the others, concern darkening his features, "Perhaps now would be a good time to run over the new training sequences you're hoping to implement Luna."
And with that, Darien left in search of Serena.
~ ~ ~
In a darkened dorm room, a young woman slept peacefully. The moonlight washed over her sleeping form, leaving her hair tainted silver and her complexion abnormally pale. She began to turn in her sleep, a cross look marring her beautiful features. The darkness of the room was disrupted then as a ruby red light, pale in comparison to the moonlight, began to shine. The mark of a ruby red, five-point star shone brightly upon her forehead, its beam of light reaching to the ceiling. The hum of power in the room awoke its sleeping inhabitant.
Slowly Aurora opened her eyes. Her instincts were alive, screaming at her to get up, to move, to defend. Her silver eyes came to rest on the reflection of her star mark on the ceiling above her. It was the sign, one she had seen eight times before.
A crystal was calling for her. It wanted to be found.
~ ~ ~
Darien's long strides took him out to the middle of the temple's lands before coming across Serena. She stood with her back to him, arms around her waist, looking to the moon. Once again Darien was struck by Serena's raw beauty. Standing as she was, alone and awash with moonlight, he could hardy remember a time when she'd looked more fragile. His heart in pain at her obvious distress, Darien walked to stand in front of Serena. Still, she would not look at him.
"Serena?" Darien prompted softly. When he got no response, he tried once more to tip her chin up so her eyes could meet his. She avoided his grasp.
Pain lacing through his chest, Darien whispered almost in anguish, "Will you not look at me?"
"I'm fine Darien," came Serena's soft voice, lifting her eyes finally to meet his own, "I'm just tried. I needed some air to clear my head."
Darien felt his chest tighten at the sight of her unshed tears. Pained concern flashed within his eyes as he gently reached up to wipe the tears away.
"Serena, what is wrong?" Darien all but pleaded, fear settling in the pit of his stomach, "Did your argument with Rei really upset you so much?"
Serena gave a soft laugh, "No. If I said the sky was blue, Rei would say it was pink just to spite me. It is in her nature to fight me and I accept that."
"Oh, Serena," Darien said softly, his fingers gently tracing the curve of her cheek, "I don't think Rei was trying to spitefully oppose you."
Serena gave a weak smile, her eyes diverted, "Oh I know. It's what Rei believes and I respect that even I don't share in her belief."
"Then what has you so upset?" Darien whispered his soft plea, the tightening in his chest making it hard to breath. His empathic capabilities, though no where near Rei's sophistication, were beating at him, telling him of Serena's emotional upheaval.
For a moment, Serena considered remaining silent, but she had heard the desperation in his voice and the pain, and could not deny him an answer.
"Aurora is very beautiful isn't she?"
This made Darien pause.
"What?"
"Aurora is very beautiful isn't she?" Serena repeated in a wavering voice.
Darien's features darkened in concern.
"Serena, I…"
"She's beautiful and intelligent; she's strong and graceful…courageous…so much like you Darien…"
Darien listened to Serena's dejected whisperings, the fear in the pit of his stomach intensifying.
"Serena, what are you trying to say?"
Serena's face rose to meet Darien's, the moonlight reflecting off the trails of tears making their way down her cheeks. Immediately Darien's hand came to brush the tears away.
"What is this about Serena?" Darien asked softly.
Serena sniffed quietly for a moment before answering.
"I know you care for her Darien."
Darien's brows furrowed, "Who? Aurora?"
Serena nodded softly.
"Of course I care for her, Serena, but so do you. How could we not given her situation?"
"I mean really care for her Darien," Serena spoke softly, her head bowed once more.
Darien stopped. He looked down at Serena's small form, her eyes diverted to the landscape around her. It took him a moment to understand the insinuation behind Serena's words. Heartbroken that she could ever doubt him, he put his fingers under her chin and forced her to look at him.
"Why would you even think that?" Darien looked straight into her eyes, "Serena I love you. How could you ever doubt that?"
Though he had been trying to keep his voice from wavering, Serena picked up on the underlying pain in Darien's tone. She winced, knowing she was the cause of it. Slowly, she started to explain herself.
"I'm so young Darien; young and inexperienced, clumsy and stupid. I can't stand up on my own two feet! I'm so far from graceful; I'm disorganized and far from socially refined. You deserve better than that!"
Serena looked vehemently up at Darien, "You deserve someone who can go to all of your business parties and university functions and not make a complete fool of you or herself, someone who can engage in conversation, someone you can be proud of! I'm not any of those things and probably never will be. You should be dating beautiful, educated women like Aurora, not me."
Serena breathed heavily with the force of trying to hold back her tears.
Darien could do nothing but stare, his eyes a turbulent mixture of emotions.
"Serena," his voice hoarse with emotion, "I don't want anyone else, I want you. Its you I love, for everything you are. I wouldn't change you for all the world."
When she refused to look at him, Darien took her hand and pulled it to his chest, over his heart. Startled, Serena's wide eyes snapped up to his.
"I'm a better man with you in my life," Darien spoke with a soft smile, "I'm whole with you."
Gently he stroked the top of her hand pressed to his chest, "I never had a childhood. I never had the chance to grow up, but you have that chance and I wouldn't take that from you for anything. I want you to grow up at your own pace. I will never push you to be more than you are until you feel ready."
Darien laughed softly, "You think I was as 'graceful' at your age as I am now? I was rather short for all of my childhood years. Once puberty struck, I went from being 5'3 to 6'0 over night. My limbs were so gangly I had no control over them! I was tripping over my feet left right and center."
Serena giggled at that. Darien smiled broadly at the sound of it.
"You just need to give yourself a chance Serena. You're not done growing yet. Once you have, I promise you the awkwardness you feel will go away."
Leaning closer to her, he whispered against her lips, "But I can tell you something, I have yet to lay eyes on someone who could compare to your beauty in my mind. I'm yours Serena, I always have been and I always will be. Please, never doubt that."
With that, he kissed her, long and soft, wrapping his arms around her slender waist. He felt her wrap her arms around his neck, pulling him close. This time when he felt her tears, he didn't wonder at their cause.
Serena pulled back, gracing Darien with one of her infamous, light filled smiles, about to say something to him when a soft whinnying stopped her. Darien heard it too, and both turned to look deeper into the gardens of the temple. Moving to crouch behind a low hedge of bushes, Serena and Darien watched as a magnificent white stallion, adorned in silver and ruby red, landed on a section of grass. Riding atop the horse was Sailor Star. Serena's eyes widened.
"What is she doing here?" Serena whispered to Darien in alarm. Darien just shook his head, his eyes alert and trained on the shimmering figure in the moonlight. Both silent spectators watched as the Imperial Soldier made her way to a rose bush covered in wild white roses. She bent, and after a few moments of digging deep into the soft soil beneath the plant, stopped and stood up. One hand seemed to hold something while another went under her skirts to bring out a silver drawstring purse. Sailor Star opened it and dropped something inside, moving to place the purse back around her waist under her skirts.
"What could that have been?" Serena whispered, more so to herself than Darien. Darien, nonetheless shook his head. Watching her closely, something inside Darien came to life – an instinct that warned of immediate danger. Before he could react, both Serena and he watched in horror as a powerful blast of black magic slammed into Sailor Star's back, throwing her violently against a tree several meters away with a sickening pop.
Serena's eyes widened and she made to scream. Darien quickly drew his hand over her mouth and pressed her back tight against his chest. His hand muffed her scream as he whispered harshly to her.
"Serena, listen to me. Slowly, I want you to start crawling away from here. When you are far enough away, get up and run to the temple. Get the girls and get away from here. Do you understand me? Do not transform, do not come back here and try to engage this enemy in battle. I want you to take the girls and get away. Do you understand me?"
He felt Serena's terse nod.
"Good," Darien continued, his eyes on the battle, "I am going to stay here and help her as I can. I promise you I won't let anything bad happen to her."
He felt Serena take a deep breath, one of relief he believed, and then relaxed his hold on her. He held his finger to his lips to signal her to be very quiet. Serena nodded and with one fearful look to Darien that told him to be safe and that she loved him all at once, Serena turned and crawled away.
Once she felt she was far enough, she got up and ran.
~ ~ ~
Back at the temple, conversation stopped as Rei's head snapped up, looking in the direction of the battle. The rest of the Guardians watched her closely. Mina was the first to speak.
"What do you sense Rei?"
Rei's eyes narrowed, "Evil."
~ ~ ~
Aurora's Guardian saw too little too late the attack that was about to befall his charge.
Aurora, look out! Firewalker's cry reverberated throughout her mind as Sailor Star's body tensed only a moment before the impact. The dark power pounded into her, throwing her head back and the rest of her body forward. The force of it stole the air from her lungs. Too late, Star saw the tree that was fast approaching. She had little time to prepare herself when her body collided with the massive plant, dislocating her left shoulder upon impact. She managed to stay on her feet, leaning heavily against the tree, attempting to slow her breathing to lessen the pain synapsing along her nerve endings. Gritting her teeth, Aurora slammed her shoulder against the trunk, relocating her shoulder.
Darien watched in relative horror as Aurora set her own dislocated shoulder. He heard her sharp breaths, undoubtedly trying to ease her pain. Clenching his jaw, Darien questioned his own ability to stand by and let her fight this on her own, but wondered of what help he would really be.
"My, I really was expecting more of a challenge than that, Aurora," A woman spoke as she emerged from the shadows. Blood pulsing down from a deep gash in her temple, and favoring her left side, Sailor Star turned towards the voice.
Dark, threatening silver eyes took in her attacker. Blond hair pulled back in a loose French braid, and tight red leather covering the entire woman's body save her neck and head. Around her waist, the woman sported a long whip, her long legs accentuated by equally high-heeled red leather boots. Aurora did not recognize her.
"Which of the Sorceress's many whores are you?" Aurora snarled, walking to face the minion.
A cold smile touched the woman's red lips but did not reach her cold green eyes.
"Resorting to petty name calling Aurora? I am Lara," the minion addressed Sailor Star coyly.
Aurora now stood but 20 feet from the woman, her shoulders set, her back straight, her silver eyes blazing.
"What do you want Lara?" Aurora asked, her tone equally coy.
"I want you dead and those crystals destroyed."
Aurora smirked, "Stand in line."
Lara closed her eyes as she smiled, opening them to look at Aurora.
"You'll find, Aurora, I am not a patient woman."
"Neither am I."
~ ~ ~
Serena tore towards the temple, desperate to get to her friends.
I'm sorry Darien! Serena's mind cried, But I can't leave you or Aurora to fight against this alone!
Turning a sharp corner, Serena had to stop herself short before running directly into Lita. The other girls were right behind her.
"Guys! What are you doing?!" Serena breathed frantically.
"Coming to find you, Serena," Rei snapped, "I sensed evil here."
Serena took another deep breath, "I know. Sailor Star is here and her enemy has attacked!"
Amy's eyes widened, "Did the minion see you? Where's Darien?"
"Darien sent me to find all of you, to get away from here. He stayed behind to help. But I can't leave him there! I can't! We have to go help! You should have seen what that thing did to her - it slammed her into a tree!" Serena began to all but hyperventilate.
"Serena," Rei spoke sharply, "Now is not the time to fall apart."
"She's right, Serena. We have a crisis on our hands, we need for you to stay calm," Mina said with equal calm to her Princess, though her tone brooked no argument.
"Rei wants to go and see the minion for herself and assess what threat it poses to the Temple. I will go with her. Lita," Mina turned to Lita and Amy, "Amy both of you go with Serena from the temple. Go to the arcade, we'll meet with you there."
"No!" Serena rebelled, " I will not leave Darien or any of you to face this alone. Either you come back with me or I go back alone!"
Serena's cerulean eyes flashed in the moonlight, her jaw set, her body tense with the desire to do something. All of the girls looked at her, knowing for the first time that Serena was serious – deadly so.
"You try and go back there and I'll haul your ass back to the temple myself," Lita all but growled, "Aurora wanted you to stay apart from her mission for a reason, and I'm not about to let you go running on in there!"
"So you're going to leave her to die?" Serena countered hotly.
"If that's her destiny, we're not the ones to argue with the Fates' decision," Rei's eyes flashed with barely suppressed frustration.
Serena stared at Rei in disbelief, "If you believe that, then stay here. I'll go make sure your precious temple will not be harmed."
With that, Serena turned and ran back towards the battle, Lita and Mina close behind her.
~ ~ ~
"I will have those crystals, Aurora."
Lara began to slowly pace, her eyes trained on the wounded Star Child as she slowly undid the whip about her waist, testing its strength and maneuverability with a few brisk flicks of her wrist.
Sailor Star watched her movements and watched the whip, trying to see a weakness, trying to see the strengths. The gash on her temple burned. She could feel the warmth of her blood running down her face and the dampness on her breast where the blood stained her uniform. That, coupled with the dull ache of her shoulder, Aurora fought to keep the pain from becoming a distraction as she waited for her enemy to make her first move.
Lara however, seemed very disinclined to initiate anything. Aurora decided to try a different tactic.
"Are you trying to impress me with the size of your whip?" Star raised a casual eyebrow.
Lara smiled at her subtle jab.
"I would hazard to guess that it would take much more than appearances to impress you, Aurora. Perhaps, instead, a demonstration is in order?"
Sailor Star tensed at the minion's words. So did Darien.
You are quite the instigator, Aurora. You can't leave well enough alone can you? His lips pressed into a thin line.
All at once, hell broke loose. Lara raised her whip high, turning it briskly in a close circle around her head before letting the whip fly. The long black cord, made of material unknown, came racing for Aurora's head. Passively, Sailor Star waited until the very last moment before leaping high and dodging the attack. In the bushes, Darien cursed her for her arrogant attitude.
Without Sailor Star's head to make contact with, the long cord continued on its path until striking the middle of the tree trunk Aurora had come to know almost personally a few moments before. Upon contact, a large surface portion of the trunk exploded in the shower of splinters, leaving a gaping hole in its wake.
Note to self, do not get hit by the whip
A sound decision, Aurora Firewalker commented from his place in the shadows. There was a chance Lara had yet to notice his presence, a fact he might yet be able to use to Aurora's advantage.
Darien stared in shock at the destruction caused by the whip. It looked as if someone had taken a saw to the massive trunk for all the wood splinters and dust that had settled to the ground. He looked to where Aurora had landed, albeit a bit less gracefully than Serena gave her credit for. He supposed being slammed into a tree would account for her lack of coordination. It appeared the Imperial Solider had not been exaggerating about the level of power and skill of the Sorceress's minions.
Aurora faced Lara with eyes burning of silver fire. This minion was new to her. Having no idea what to expect, she wanted to drive Lara to attack in order to gain insight into her unique battle tactics. So far, what Star saw did not bode well for her.
~ ~ ~
"Serena, stop!" Mina hissed in a whisper as she and Lita ran after their suicidal princess.
Serena would have none of it however, and before reaching the point where she knew she'd have to crawl back to prevent detection, she grabbed hold of her broach and whispered a command.
"Moon Crystal Power!"
"Damn it Serena!" Lita cursed, and with a sharp look to Mina, called forth her transformation pen.
"Jupiter Power!"
"Venus Power!"
In a moment, both Jupiter and Venus were crouched low on the ground behind Sailor Moon, who was now crawling back towards what both Guardians assumed was the battle site.
"Just what the hell are you going to do once we get back there, Serena?" Venus whispered sharply.
"I'm going to stop that thing from killing her and stop Darien from getting himself involved. He'll only wind up getting himself hurt."
Jupiter shot Venus a dark look at Sailor Moon's twisted logic.
"Serena," Venus hissed, "Darien sent you away to prevent you from getting hurt!"
Sailor Moon ignored Venus's protest. They were close. Already she could hear voices.
As she came around a cluster of high bushes, Serena laid eyes on Darien's turned back. Silently, she breathed a sigh of relief. He was still okay.
Her approach did not go unnoticed by the re-born prince however. His head turned sharply at the sound of her coming into the small clearing between hedges. When he laid eyes on her, then on Jupiter and Venus, Darien's eyes grew dark with anger while his stomach became sick with fear.
Moving to whisper directly into Serena's ear, Darien reprimanded her.
"Serena, I told you not to come back here! It's too dangerous for you here…!" Sailor Moon cut him off.
"I will not leave you and Aurora to this fate. Unless you plan to drag me away Darien, I'm here to see this through."
Darien leaned back to see into her eyes. They blazed with purpose and passion and a stubbornness that was all Serena. He knew he should demand that she turn back. He knew that he should drag her away from here and leave Aurora to her mission. But he also knew that if he did, he would draw the attention of the minion, something he could not afford at the moment – not with Serena there. So he set his mouth in a firm line, showing Serena how displeased he was at having been backed into a corner on this issue, and giving the two other Guardians a dark look for allowing her to come there, turned back to observe the battle. Not before, however, brushing against the hedge.
~ ~ ~
Sailor Star stood her ground not three feet from the nearly decimated tree trunk. Her body had not taken well to her impromptu flight through the air in attempts to avoid Lara's whip. The gash on her temple pulsed harder with the exertion, as did the throbbing in her shoulder. Already Aurora found herself at a terrible disadvantage of being against an unknown minion while wounded. Really, Star reasoned, her only hope was to wound the minion such that she had no other choice than to return to her Mistress. As it stood, Lara was already 2 and 0. It was going to be a long night.
Sailor Star was about ready to exercise a little of her own power when a rustling to her right caught her attention. For only a moment, Aurora's eyes and attention moved to the right. Lara, whose keen senses had been trained on the Imperial Soldier, noted Star's diverted attention. Not bothering herself with what actually caused the disturbance, Lara struck out once more with her whip. This time, Sailor Star was not fast enough.
Aurora...! was all Firewalker was able to get out before Lara launched her attack.
Sailor Star's head whipped back round to face her opponent, her eyes wide with the horror of what she'd done; she'd given her enemy an open window of opportunity.
Star's analytical mind took note of the path of the whip and seconds before it could reach its target, Aurora's hand came up to her throat, palm out. Consequently, the whip wrapped itself around Aurora's neck and the hand protecting the front of her throat. While this still left Star in a terribly compromising position, it did take the edge off of the upper hand Lara now held over her. At least now Aurora could use her own strength to prevent Lara from choking her to death and perhaps even loosen the whip and be free of it.
Lara smirked, "Tsk Tsk, Star Child, don't you know you should never take your eyes off your opponent? I was rather expecting more from the great Sailor Star. Though no matter," Lara's feral grin broadened, "I'll be having those crystals now Aurora."
Hold on Aurora, Firewalker's deep voice rumbled in a growl throughout her mind, I'll have you free…
No! Aurora protested fiercely, I will handle this. You will stay hidden Firewalker! I may need you yet, but not now...
Firewalker's subsequent silence was testament to his unease and unhappiness at following Aurora's orders.
With Firewalker currently dealt with, Aurora turned her attention back to the situation at hand. Forcing her throat muscles to move against the constriction of the whip and the back of her hand, Aurora met Lara's threat with one of her own.
"Fuck you," Star's voice sounded foreign even to her own ears, "Try to take them from me and I will kill you."
Lara's grin grew broader still, "I was hoping you would say that."
~ ~ ~
Darien had his arms locked tightly around Sailor Moon's waist. He'd had to physically restrain her from leaving their sanctuary to throw Sailor Star out of the way of the on coming attack. Now they all waited with baited breath to see what would happen next. Darien felt a wash of guilt run through him as he watch Aurora struggle to breathe against the tight hold of the whip. It was his fault her attention had been diverted. He'd been the reason for the bush rustling and now Aurora was paying the price. It seemed Mercury's prediction that their interference would only come as a hindrance to Sailor Star was correct.
Speaking of Mercury, Darien turned to look at the blue haired, silent Solider sitting just behind him and Serena with a clear view of the battle. Mars and Mercury had arrived in the small clearing only moments after Sailor Moon. Mercury had promptly set herself to evaluating the power levels of Star's enemy and the physical integrity of the whip she used as a weapon. So far, she had not spoken of her findings. Sailor Mercury's fellow Soldiers sat behind her, each carefully observing the shifting tides of power involved in the battle and their spirited Princess. None of them could afford to have her run out into the middle of a small war before Mercury could provide them with some insight on what they were facing.
Mercury looked up from her computer when she heard Sailor Star speak. Her lips formed a thin line when she heard Aurora's words before returning to her previous investigation. Darien noticed she was about to speak when a flash of dark light caused Mercury's head to snap up sharply and Sailor Moon to cry out.
~ ~ ~
A flow of dark energy sped down the length of the whip, crackling like black electricity. Aurora saw it coming and braced herself. It was not enough. The power slammed into her body, dropping Aurora to her knees almost immediately. She tried to scream, but the electrical pulses of the power caused her muscles to convulse painfully and just breathing became an impossible task. Aurora could feel the searing heat of the dark energy burning her exposed skin and eating through the fabric of her uniform. She couldn't open her eyes against the onslaught; her muscles would not respond. She felt the erratic beatings of her heart as the attack threw off the rhythm of her natural pacemaker. She could hear nothing save the dark roaring of the electrical attack as it continued to pummel her body. All of her senses had failed her leaving Aurora isolated in a world of darkness and torture.
Pain shredded nerve endings, fire scorched skin, and Aurora's mind went white with the agony of it. Knowing she would soon go mad if she did not escape Lara's hold, Aurora forced her mind blank. She blotted out the pain and the agony, blocked the image of the enemy from her mind, and went deep inside herself. A calm settled over her mind; sending an impulse to her arm, Aurora willed it to move. Slowly, she could feel the muscle contracting against the electrical impulses sent down the whip from Lara's energy reserves. Her arm moved to follow the command her brain had sent it, and through sheer strength of will, Sailor Star grasped the whip.
~ ~ ~
Darien held his hand over Sailor Moon's mouth as she struggled against him, desperate to free Sailor Star.
"Serena!" Darien hissed sharply in her ear, "Stop struggling! If that woman finds us here, we will all be in very real danger, Aurora included!"
Slowly, Darien felt Sailor Moon relax against him, though her shallow, rapid breathing spoke of the effort she was employing to do so. Her eyes were trained on Sailor Star, now on her knees under the onslaught of attack. In her mind, an image flashed unbidden to the surface. One of when she was fighting alone against Malachite. She and the Scouts had been trying to draw the Dark Kingdom out of hiding by pretending to break up as a team. One of the minions the Dark General Malachite had brought with him that day had employed a whip and had held her in a position similar to Sailor Star's. It had taken the Scouts' intervention before she could be free.
"What's her status Mercury?" Venus whispered with intent as her eyes remained on the battle before her, body tense.
"She's surviving it, though do not ask me how. The amount of force surging through that whip should be enough to kill her."
Darien shot the Soldier of Wisdom a dark look when Sailor Moon turned wide, frantic eyes towards her.
"Will she be able to escape?" Serena's voice wavered with fear and concern as tears pooled in the corners of her eyes.
Jupiter raised an eyebrow in surprise as she observed the ongoing fight. Not turning towards Sailor Moon, she whispered with a nod, "See for yourself."
Each young warrior turned their eyes on the battle and watched as Sailor Star seemingly defied the impossible and reached up to grasp the whip. They saw her lips move, though no words could be heard from their position. Her lips stopped moving and the clearing was filled with pale golden light and the screams of a tortured soul.
~ ~ ~
Aurora could feel the power of the Sorceress plow through her with greater intensity as she gripped the whip. The darkness of it violated her body, her cells dying from the poison of it. Focusing her strength and sheer spite, Aurora forced her mouth to form the words she knew would herald her freedom. Though her voice was barely a whisper, the words choked and twisted with agony, the result would always be the same.
"Sun…Beam…Burn…"
Aurora reveled as the radiating, destructive warmth of her powers washed through her body, keeping the Sorceress at bay. Bending the wild power to her will, Aurora forced her powers to extend down the length of the whip and smiled with lethal intent when she heard Lara's screams.
Slowly, Sailor Star could feel Lara's powers weakening as she was forced to defend herself against the Imperial Soldier's attack. As the flow of dark power ebbed, Sailor Star found the strength and control to stand up.
Menacing silver eyes beheld the sight of the blonde minion on her knee, the whip held tightly in her grasp as if it alone could save her. Sailor Star forced another surge of power down the length of the weapon, and watch with a detached sense of satisfaction as Lara collapsed on two knees.
Slowly, Lara forced her head up to look at her attacker. It seemed the infamous Sailor Star was winning after all. She had been warned by her Mistress not to underestimate the Star Child, nor to become too confident in battle. She had not heeded her Mistress' warning well enough it seemed; just when victory appeared to be hers, the little bitch had gained the upper hand. Lara's cool green eyes simmered with hatred at the smirk she saw cross Sailor Star's face.
You will not win so easily, Star Child! Lara seethed in silence.
Gathering her energies about her, Lara held her arm out straight, hand up, palm out. With a smirk of her own, Lara watched as a wall of dark energies slammed into the Solitary Soldier.
Aurora saw the impregnable wall of darkness fast approaching her as the powers pooled from Lara's outstretched palm. In her vulnerable position, Aurora could do little to defend herself, and had only a moment to brace for impact before the wall of power slammed her senses. More pain laced through her, her mind losing focus with the increased agony. Gritting her teeth, a darkness promising death flashing through her eyes, Aurora strengthened her hold on the whip and pooled all of her power into it, not even bothering to protect herself against Lara's continuing second attack. Aurora could only pray it would be enough.
Please Kiaya…may it be enough…
~ ~ ~
Darien grit his own teeth as the second of the blonde woman's attacks slammed Sailor Star. Unbidden, a rose formed in his hand, his transformation taking place. He struggled against the need to throw the steel tipped flower and bring Aurora her freedom. To do that, however, would mean revealing Sailor Moon's position and that simply was not an option. Sailor Moon was now at his side, trembling with fear for her new found friend and ally. Tuxedo Mask knew how desperately she wanted to become a part of Sailor Star's struggle, and perhaps bring an end to it, but neither he nor the Scouts were about to let her and she knew that. So she remained at his side, crouched low, her eyes tear filled, her jaw set with a determination he knew all too well, the Moon Scepter held tightly in her grasp.
"We have to do something!" Sailor Moon whispered frantically, never once taking her eyes off Sailor Star, "How can you all just sit here and watch her suffer?"
"Simple," Mercury responded with a cool detachment she had adopted to endure the pain of such battle, "She knows what she is doing. Sailor Star does not need our assistance."
Mars looked at her fellow soldier with equally cool violet eyes, "How are you so sure?"
Mercury nodded towards her small computer screen, "Sailor Star's enemy can not maintain the necessary level of output needed to keep both attacks strong. By attacking Sailor Star openly, the minion has no choice but to lessen the outpouring of energies into the whip. Sailor Star has realized this, it seems, and has increased the amount of power she was feeding into the whip."
Mercury moved slightly to the side, allowing Venus, Jupiter, and Moon to see her view screen. Mars only had eyes for the battle.
"As a result," Mercury concluded in hushed tones to her onlookers, "The integrity of the whip is failing. It will break in a matter of moments if Sailor Star's actions continue to go unnoticed by her enemy."
Tux looked back to Aurora, an impressed look on his face. Sailor Star seemed very adept at turning a bad situation around for her benefit. Sailor Moon looked on with a new hope shinning in her wide blue eyes.
Just hold on a little longer Sailor Star! Please….
~ ~ ~
