Disclaimer: I don't own either Ranma ½ or Sailormoon...I wish I did so I can
skip this part ^_^
Sun and Space: Lord Strife (bishop_hikusaak@yahoo.com)
'xxx' – Thoughts {xxx} – Panda Signs
Version 1.1 Chapter 4
~ Rooftops, Juuban Ward ~
"So have you gotten any leads?" asked a black cat with a crescent moon symbol on her forehead.
Her companion merely shook his head. He too was a cat but of white color and have similar markings on his forehead.
Luna sighed. Ever since Usagi, a.k.a. Sailor Moon, told her about the two newly awakened senshi, she had been prowling the
night with Artemis in hopes of running across the two...or at least some leads to where they could find them.
Among the senshi, aside from Sailor Pluto who was never reincarnated, Sailor Sun and Sailor Vesta seem to recall much of the
days of the Silver Millennium faster than when the others were awakened. Since Setsuna was a _little_ reluctant to share
information on those matters, she had hoped these two would be much more willing to disclose such details.
Artemis sat next to Luna, "I went to Rei and asked her regarding the results of her fire reading...it's quite strange
actually...."
Luna turned her head to her companion, urging him to continue.
"Yesterday, she said she was getting clear readings on the matter...then suddenly today she said it was nil..."
Luna looked at him with a curious glare, "...as in, totally nothing?"
"Yes."
Luna pondered this a little, "That's...weird. I went to check on Ami earlier to see if her Mercury computer found anything...she
too said yesterday she was able to get some _probable_ results...but when I asked her again earlier she said she was at a lost.
Apparently the result the Mercury computer gave her was so chaotic she could not make a conclusive deduction...whatever that
means..."
Artemis looked up, "Hmm...did she start fumbling about anything to excuse herself?"
Luna looked at him with a startled look, "Now that you mentioned it...yes she did...did Rei acted like that too?"
Artemis nodded, "Yes, she did. From what I can tell it's either a coincidence, or those two are hiding something from us."
Luna sighed again, "Its hard enough if Pluto hides things from us...but if those two started doing it as well..."
"I agree, but let's not jump into conclusions...yet. They may have a good reason for it. Why don't you check out on Ami more
and I'll keep a tab on Rei. If they are hiding something..."
Luna had to agree, "But be careful...I hear Rei's cousin is extremely scared of cats...if he gets a whiff of you..."
"I'll be careful. So do we stake out tonight or tomorrow?"
~ Tendo Residence, Nerima Ward ~
Nabiki sat on a chair beside her bedroom's window, apparently in deep thought. 'A couple...one having an arrogant demeanor...the
other a fiery temper.... And probably lives somewhere in Juuban.' She silently chuckles. 'If I didn't know any better I
would have said it was Ranma and Akane...but apparently she said those two are deeply in love with each other...so it couldn't be
Ranma and Akane...would it?'
Nabiki turned to her ledger, the woman Setsuna said no price is too high, just that she finds where a certain 'Arthel' and
'Lithea' reside. She even gave a down payment of 500,000 yen and another when Nabiki finds them.
"Hmm...since Akane is in Juuban, perhaps I can ask her and see if she knows any other couple like that..." Nabiki paused.
"And I better make sure it isn't them as well."
~ Hikawa Shrine, Juuban Ward ~
Ranma was on the roof, lying on his back gazing up at the stars at the night sky. He turned to his left and saw Akane came
up the roof and gently walked towards him.
Akane stop and sat next to him, "Just got a call from Nabiki."
Ranma raised an eye-brow, "What? Did any of Nerima Wrecking Crew found us already?"
Akane shook her head and failed to stifle a giggle. "Nah, she was asking if we knew of any other couple here in Juuban that
had similar personalities to our own."
"Why would she want...that..." Ranma stopped then grinned.
"Setsuna!" Both said at the same time.
"I guess we better be doubly careful, unless Nabiki stumbles upon our little secret."
Akane nodded in agreement.
"Say, Akane?"
"Yes?"
"Don't you find it weird?"
She turned to her fiancé with a look of non-understanding, "Weird? What's weird?"
"About us...." Ranma said nonchalantly. "...we died a month before the other senshi did, and I'm quite certain that Queen
Serenity did not send us to the future...otherwise Setsuna would have searched for us as well."
Akane pondered this a little, "Now that you mentioned it...and also, our memories aren't as Swiss-cheesed like the others
were..." Akane regarded Ranma with a thoughtful look. "You're saying...there was another force that had power to do so?"
Ranma shrugged, "Probably. For reasons I have no idea..."
Akane began to stand, "We can ask Rei or Ami about that...maybe they can get some info or something."
Ranma nodded, he too stood up. He was walking towards the edge of the roof when he suddenly stopped. Akane noticed this,
"What's wrong?"
"C-cc-cat..."
Akane began frantically looking in every direction, "Where? I can't see a cat anywhere?"
"No...I...felt one approaching...it...has...an aura..."
Akane looked at him puzzled, "Aura? That cat must be magical in nature if you could sense it..."
Ranma nodded then another memory hit his head. "Artemis..."
"Who?" Akane asked.
"One of Queen Serenity's advisors...c-cat advisors...Artemis...you know the white c-cat..."
Akane seemed to stop at that, then her face lights up as she recalls who Artemis was. "Artemis...so is he the one you sensed?"
Ranma frantically nodded, while gazing around as if expecting the white cat to pop out of nowhere.
"If I remember correctly, the other cat advisor was named...Luna!"
Ranma again nodded, "Why did they have to be c-cats..."
Akane sighed, "I wonder if those two cats know how to cure Neko-ken..." Akane shook her head, "In any case we better be
careful not to talk too much about anything senshi-related or those two will start telling the others...and the moment they
do...I bet Setsuna would be knocking on our doorsteps in an instant."
Ranma had to agree, "Better tell Rei to be extra careful though, I think they may be on to us."
Ranma and Akane soon went down the roof and headed inside just as Artemis arrived. And from a certain distance from the
shrine three figures, female judging from their silhouettes in the shadows left quietly muttering something like "...a greater
threat than Metallia..."
~ Somewhere ~
Cephei studied the battle data Aquilae had procured during their last encounter with the senshi. 'Hmm...perhaps I can enhance
the youmas' intelligence factor by 32%...that will give them enough brains to think without making them totally sentient.'
She walked towards a newly competed Omicron youma, complete with the omicron organic armoring. 'I can modify this one's
intelligence, and send it to battle the senshi.' A small wicked smile crept to her face. 'Yes, I will prove I am the
smartest individual in this universe!' Her mad laughter echoed within the confines of her lab.
~ Mizuno Residence ~
Ami was staring outside her window, she had just waked up from a dream...no, it was more of a long forgotten memory. She
whispered something barely audible, "Arthel..."
~ Past...Silver Millennium, Flowing Silver Palace of Planet Mercury ~
A huge celebration was being held at the royal palace. The kingdom was celebrating the appointment of Princess Melira as
Sailor Mercury, and no quarter was spared for the occasion.
Melira just sighed. She was happy to be able to bring honor to the family by being named Sailor Mercury...but she just hated
parties. It's not she dislikes happy occasions...it's just she's so shy she hardly feels comfortable among many people. But
her mother insisted that she come, after all she is the reason for the celebration and besides, since she is now Sailor
Mercury she should get used to people since she will be spending a lot of time protecting the citizens of the Silver
Millennium.
"Princess, time to come down to the banquet hall!" said a servant as she politely entered her young mistress' room.
"Tell father and mother I'll be in a little while."
With a small gesture from her, the servant retreated to tell her parents that she will be along in a few moments.
*Sigh* "Guess better get it over with I think..." With one final adjustment to her dress, she left for the banquet halls.
She took her time walking through the corridors; she stopped halfway to her destination having second thoughts on joining the
festivities.
"I...I don't think they'd mind if I don't come..." she whispered to herself. Unknowns to her, another person heard her soft
whisper.
"Of course they would mind, after all you are the very reason for this occasion Princess Melira." said a male voice from
behind her, which nearly made her jump out of her clothes.
Melira whirled around to see a young man around her age or so, dressed in formal attire. She regarded his face and saw a
cocky smile on his handsome face made her blush a little. She then tore her gaze off of him and shook her head slightly.
'What am I thinking?' She thought to herself.
She eventually regained her composure, and immediately recognizes the other person's regal emblem. "Forgive me for my
rudeness, you are Prince Arthel of Vesta and its' appointed senshi are you not?" Melira said with a slight formal bow, given
to another person of similar stature.
"That I am." Arthel returned her bow. He smiled at her causing her to blush even more. "Why won't you come to the banquet
halls?"
She lost a little of her smile as she turned to face the doors to the hall. "It's just...I don't like being with too many
people..."
"Why is that?"
"It's just...that...I'm shy...of other people...it...also makes me...feel uncomfortable."
Arthel shook his head slightly, "Better get used to it princess. After all you are now one of Queen Serenity's senshi and
you would be dealing with a lot of people...and most will not be as polite as the people in there right now."
"I know...but still..."
"Think of this as a little training for you...it may help you a little in dealing with other people, and..."
"And?"
"Never think you are alone. I and the other senshi will not hesitate to be there for you."
Somehow what Arthel said made her blush.
"Arthel! Melira!" A voice was heard from behind them, and they turned to see Princess Lithea running towards them.
"Lithea!" Melira squealed happily as she hugged her distant cousin. "It's been so long since I last saw you!"
"I know, been busy really. I have been looking for Arthel here because your mother asked me to look for you since you
haven't shown up at the halls yet."
Melira looked abashed, "I'm sorry...it's just..."
"Still don't like being in a crowd eh?"
Princess of Mercury merely nodded.
"Don't worry, Melira. You'll get used to it."
Melira couldn't help but noticed as to how close her cousin was standing next to Arthel was.
"Umm...you two seemed very close."
Arthel and Lithea blushed as her comment. "Actually..." Lithea started "He's my fiancé. He asked me last week if I wanted to
marry him and I said yes."
The two looked lovingly into each other as they failed to notice a look of disappointment flooded Melira's face.
'Guess he was taken already, by my cousin no less...*sigh* She cleared her throat as to get the attention of the other two.
"I'm happy for the both of you! Congratulations Lithea!" She hugged her cousin again. "So when's the wedding?"
The three started talking about the imminent occasion as they walked towards the banquet halls.
~ Mizuno Residence ~
Ami just sighed; she remembered how her past self felt about Arthel...Ranma. She hid her feelings then because she cared too
much for her cousin too and it was also because she saw the way Arthel looked at Lithea that made her decide not to
interfere.
'It was like that then...it's still is now...those two are still very much in love with each other.'
Ami shook her head to clear it of confusing thoughts. She took one last glance outside before deciding to sleep again. This
time it was a dreamless sleep.
Unknown to her, Luna watched her from the tree outside. 'Seems like Ami just had a dream of the old Silver Millennium...I
wonder if I should ask her about it?' Luna pondered this for a moment before she left, heading back towards the Tsukino
residence.
~ Hikawa Shrine, midnight ~
Grandfather Hino was making late night rounds in the shrine to ensure everything was in order since his disciple Yuuichirou
was out of town. He paused momentarily as he neared the sacred fire. He smiled inwardly, guessing who was the one
meditating in front of the sacred fire.
He walked in slowly into the room, "You should be resting now Rei. You have school tomorrow." He paused, then corrected
himself "Make that later, since it's already morning."
Rei opened her eyes slowly. She felt her grandfather's presence even before he entered the room, so she wasn't surprised by
his voice at all. "I'll be done in a minute grandfather."
"What's keeping you awake dear?" the elder Hino asked.
"Nothing really grandfather...Ranma just taught me some methods of ki- manipulation that I could use during my fire-readings and
I'm currently trying it out."
"Is that so? Was it any help?"
Rei nodded, "Quite really. I never got such clear readings before. He said the method he taught me was just the first step.
Other more complex meditations are to follow once I fully master this one."
Grandfather Hino nodded with pride. His grandchildren were exceptional indeed. His grandson was a top caliber martial
artist that has incorporated ki-techniques into the art. While his granddaughter was no martial artist, she was no slacker
in terms of ki-meditations and was even quick to learn from her cousin. "That's all well and good Rei. But even shrine
maidens need their rest. Now off to bed!"
"Yes grandfather."
Grandfather Hino left. He knows Rei will not leave the sacred fire until she feels she has done all what she can, and right
now it may be a while before she goes to bed. He never lost his smile as he continues his rounds. "Those young ones are all
too alike. They are always in a rush."
Rei was left in the sacred fire. She continued her fire-readings. She felt another force...something very powerful...yet so
kind and gentle at the same time. 'Ranma and Akane said that they died a month before the fall of the Silver Millennium...so
it couldn't be Queen Serenity that sent them to the future...but another force...the one I'm feeling now.' She shook her head
to clear it of all distractions. What she told her grandfather was true, she has now much clearer image in her readings than
before but...this entity with such power and such gentleness she could not point out.
'Heh, if I didn't know better I'm guessing is that the kami themselves are blocking my fire-readings.' She laughs a little
on that private joke. 'Guess grandfather is correct, I do need my sleep. Perhaps Ranma can help me with other meditation
techniques and see if I can finally see who or what this force is.'
She gave one final respect to the scared fire before she left the room. After she has gone, a quiet whisper could be heard
from the sacred fire: 'It's not yet time for you to know us, Rei. But soon...perhaps...'
~ Gates of Time ~
Sailor Pluto was still watching the wild fluctuation of the future. Crystal Tokyo and Metallia's unmentionable alternative.
Still she felt something like confidence that they can make it out in one piece. After all, the senshi are now virtually
complete. Powers of the elements are at their disposal, not to mention the combined powers of Time and Space.
Her thoughts lingered to that of Vesta and Sun. 'You can run but you can't hide forever you two!' She smiled. She had
forgotten how much it felt good when you smile. Her smile was lost when she looked at the wild fluctuation. A third
probable outcome manifested itself. She gasped at what she saw.
"By the gods!!! It...it couldn't be!"
Then she noticed the original two visions gradually was ceding against the third future. Before she could react a portal
opened itself in front of her, and out step a man dressed in regal armor.
"You shall not interfere in our affairs mortal." The stranger said casually.
Sailor Pluto prepared to battle the stranger, but was caught unaware of his speed. Before she could react, she finds herself
thrown out of the Gates of Time. "What the..."
"Be thankful I did not kill you mortal. Your future has been decided." The Gates of Time slowly closed while Sailor Pluto
sat there, watching helplessly.
~ Next Morning, en route to Juuban High ~
Ranma, Akane, and Ami were walking together towards Juuban High, after seeing Hotaru off to her school.
"I still say we should ask Haruka and Michiru to transfer Hotaru to Juuban High so at least we can watch over her."
Ranma shook his head, Lithea...Akane can be so over-protective sometimes.
Ami merely giggled, "So...did you two study for our history test today?"
Akane nodded but soon noticed Ranma stiffened. "Don't tell me you forgot Ranma?"
Ranma merely grunted, and Akane slapped her forehead. "Baka!"
Usagi chose that moment to appear (To know why she is early? Hard to say...she's harder to predict than a Tornado would appear
^_^). "Ohayou, minna-san!" She gleefully greets her friends.
"Ohayou, Usagi-chan." Akane and Ami chorused together.
Usagi smiled but notices Ranma's distress. "Umm...what's wrong with Ranma?"
"Apparently..." Akane began, "He forgot to study for our history test."
Usagi nodded, but soon Akane's word struck home. "WE HAVE A TEST?!"
Everyone within a five-mile radius could have sworn they heard a sonic boom pass over them.
~~~
After calming down a crying Usagi, Ranma and the others continued to school.
"I think I'm not feeling well..."
"Nice try Usagi. But you won't get off the hook that easy." Akane said grimly.
Ami merely smiled, while stealing glances at Ranma.
They were close to school when they noticed Setsuna leaning heavily against the wall, she was apparently breathing hard.
"Setsuna!" Ami and Usagi called out as they ran towards her. Ranma and Akane followed suit.
"What happened to you?" Ami asked.
"Setsuna eyed Ranma and Akane briefly, "Umm. It's kind of _private_, perhaps later."
Ami and Usagi understood what she meant by private. Ranma and Akane too, but did not show it in their faces. And Ami knew
that Ranma and Akane would understand as well.
"I see...well we better get you to the school clinic then. Ranma how about some help?"
Ranma nodded at Ami's instruction and help Setsuna up.
'Who ever did this to Setsuna would have to be extremely good.' This though echoed in the minds of the four teens.
'Hmmm...now that I think about it...Rei's cousin Ranma looks familiar...' is what's echoing in Setsuna's mind.
~ Juuban Museum ~
Cephei emerged from the shadows. 'Good...more than enough people to cause a commotion to acquire the senshi's notice.' She
motioned to her omicron youma to begin its attack.
People's screams and Cephei's mad laughter filled the museum's halls.
To be continued...
Author's Notes: Up next, the Nerima Wrecking crew finally makes their debut...will Ryouga survive Akane's wrath? Oh and
Happy Easter!!!
Sun and Space: Lord Strife (bishop_hikusaak@yahoo.com)
'xxx' – Thoughts {xxx} – Panda Signs
Version 1.1 Chapter 4
~ Rooftops, Juuban Ward ~
"So have you gotten any leads?" asked a black cat with a crescent moon symbol on her forehead.
Her companion merely shook his head. He too was a cat but of white color and have similar markings on his forehead.
Luna sighed. Ever since Usagi, a.k.a. Sailor Moon, told her about the two newly awakened senshi, she had been prowling the
night with Artemis in hopes of running across the two...or at least some leads to where they could find them.
Among the senshi, aside from Sailor Pluto who was never reincarnated, Sailor Sun and Sailor Vesta seem to recall much of the
days of the Silver Millennium faster than when the others were awakened. Since Setsuna was a _little_ reluctant to share
information on those matters, she had hoped these two would be much more willing to disclose such details.
Artemis sat next to Luna, "I went to Rei and asked her regarding the results of her fire reading...it's quite strange
actually...."
Luna turned her head to her companion, urging him to continue.
"Yesterday, she said she was getting clear readings on the matter...then suddenly today she said it was nil..."
Luna looked at him with a curious glare, "...as in, totally nothing?"
"Yes."
Luna pondered this a little, "That's...weird. I went to check on Ami earlier to see if her Mercury computer found anything...she
too said yesterday she was able to get some _probable_ results...but when I asked her again earlier she said she was at a lost.
Apparently the result the Mercury computer gave her was so chaotic she could not make a conclusive deduction...whatever that
means..."
Artemis looked up, "Hmm...did she start fumbling about anything to excuse herself?"
Luna looked at him with a startled look, "Now that you mentioned it...yes she did...did Rei acted like that too?"
Artemis nodded, "Yes, she did. From what I can tell it's either a coincidence, or those two are hiding something from us."
Luna sighed again, "Its hard enough if Pluto hides things from us...but if those two started doing it as well..."
"I agree, but let's not jump into conclusions...yet. They may have a good reason for it. Why don't you check out on Ami more
and I'll keep a tab on Rei. If they are hiding something..."
Luna had to agree, "But be careful...I hear Rei's cousin is extremely scared of cats...if he gets a whiff of you..."
"I'll be careful. So do we stake out tonight or tomorrow?"
~ Tendo Residence, Nerima Ward ~
Nabiki sat on a chair beside her bedroom's window, apparently in deep thought. 'A couple...one having an arrogant demeanor...the
other a fiery temper.... And probably lives somewhere in Juuban.' She silently chuckles. 'If I didn't know any better I
would have said it was Ranma and Akane...but apparently she said those two are deeply in love with each other...so it couldn't be
Ranma and Akane...would it?'
Nabiki turned to her ledger, the woman Setsuna said no price is too high, just that she finds where a certain 'Arthel' and
'Lithea' reside. She even gave a down payment of 500,000 yen and another when Nabiki finds them.
"Hmm...since Akane is in Juuban, perhaps I can ask her and see if she knows any other couple like that..." Nabiki paused.
"And I better make sure it isn't them as well."
~ Hikawa Shrine, Juuban Ward ~
Ranma was on the roof, lying on his back gazing up at the stars at the night sky. He turned to his left and saw Akane came
up the roof and gently walked towards him.
Akane stop and sat next to him, "Just got a call from Nabiki."
Ranma raised an eye-brow, "What? Did any of Nerima Wrecking Crew found us already?"
Akane shook her head and failed to stifle a giggle. "Nah, she was asking if we knew of any other couple here in Juuban that
had similar personalities to our own."
"Why would she want...that..." Ranma stopped then grinned.
"Setsuna!" Both said at the same time.
"I guess we better be doubly careful, unless Nabiki stumbles upon our little secret."
Akane nodded in agreement.
"Say, Akane?"
"Yes?"
"Don't you find it weird?"
She turned to her fiancé with a look of non-understanding, "Weird? What's weird?"
"About us...." Ranma said nonchalantly. "...we died a month before the other senshi did, and I'm quite certain that Queen
Serenity did not send us to the future...otherwise Setsuna would have searched for us as well."
Akane pondered this a little, "Now that you mentioned it...and also, our memories aren't as Swiss-cheesed like the others
were..." Akane regarded Ranma with a thoughtful look. "You're saying...there was another force that had power to do so?"
Ranma shrugged, "Probably. For reasons I have no idea..."
Akane began to stand, "We can ask Rei or Ami about that...maybe they can get some info or something."
Ranma nodded, he too stood up. He was walking towards the edge of the roof when he suddenly stopped. Akane noticed this,
"What's wrong?"
"C-cc-cat..."
Akane began frantically looking in every direction, "Where? I can't see a cat anywhere?"
"No...I...felt one approaching...it...has...an aura..."
Akane looked at him puzzled, "Aura? That cat must be magical in nature if you could sense it..."
Ranma nodded then another memory hit his head. "Artemis..."
"Who?" Akane asked.
"One of Queen Serenity's advisors...c-cat advisors...Artemis...you know the white c-cat..."
Akane seemed to stop at that, then her face lights up as she recalls who Artemis was. "Artemis...so is he the one you sensed?"
Ranma frantically nodded, while gazing around as if expecting the white cat to pop out of nowhere.
"If I remember correctly, the other cat advisor was named...Luna!"
Ranma again nodded, "Why did they have to be c-cats..."
Akane sighed, "I wonder if those two cats know how to cure Neko-ken..." Akane shook her head, "In any case we better be
careful not to talk too much about anything senshi-related or those two will start telling the others...and the moment they
do...I bet Setsuna would be knocking on our doorsteps in an instant."
Ranma had to agree, "Better tell Rei to be extra careful though, I think they may be on to us."
Ranma and Akane soon went down the roof and headed inside just as Artemis arrived. And from a certain distance from the
shrine three figures, female judging from their silhouettes in the shadows left quietly muttering something like "...a greater
threat than Metallia..."
~ Somewhere ~
Cephei studied the battle data Aquilae had procured during their last encounter with the senshi. 'Hmm...perhaps I can enhance
the youmas' intelligence factor by 32%...that will give them enough brains to think without making them totally sentient.'
She walked towards a newly competed Omicron youma, complete with the omicron organic armoring. 'I can modify this one's
intelligence, and send it to battle the senshi.' A small wicked smile crept to her face. 'Yes, I will prove I am the
smartest individual in this universe!' Her mad laughter echoed within the confines of her lab.
~ Mizuno Residence ~
Ami was staring outside her window, she had just waked up from a dream...no, it was more of a long forgotten memory. She
whispered something barely audible, "Arthel..."
~ Past...Silver Millennium, Flowing Silver Palace of Planet Mercury ~
A huge celebration was being held at the royal palace. The kingdom was celebrating the appointment of Princess Melira as
Sailor Mercury, and no quarter was spared for the occasion.
Melira just sighed. She was happy to be able to bring honor to the family by being named Sailor Mercury...but she just hated
parties. It's not she dislikes happy occasions...it's just she's so shy she hardly feels comfortable among many people. But
her mother insisted that she come, after all she is the reason for the celebration and besides, since she is now Sailor
Mercury she should get used to people since she will be spending a lot of time protecting the citizens of the Silver
Millennium.
"Princess, time to come down to the banquet hall!" said a servant as she politely entered her young mistress' room.
"Tell father and mother I'll be in a little while."
With a small gesture from her, the servant retreated to tell her parents that she will be along in a few moments.
*Sigh* "Guess better get it over with I think..." With one final adjustment to her dress, she left for the banquet halls.
She took her time walking through the corridors; she stopped halfway to her destination having second thoughts on joining the
festivities.
"I...I don't think they'd mind if I don't come..." she whispered to herself. Unknowns to her, another person heard her soft
whisper.
"Of course they would mind, after all you are the very reason for this occasion Princess Melira." said a male voice from
behind her, which nearly made her jump out of her clothes.
Melira whirled around to see a young man around her age or so, dressed in formal attire. She regarded his face and saw a
cocky smile on his handsome face made her blush a little. She then tore her gaze off of him and shook her head slightly.
'What am I thinking?' She thought to herself.
She eventually regained her composure, and immediately recognizes the other person's regal emblem. "Forgive me for my
rudeness, you are Prince Arthel of Vesta and its' appointed senshi are you not?" Melira said with a slight formal bow, given
to another person of similar stature.
"That I am." Arthel returned her bow. He smiled at her causing her to blush even more. "Why won't you come to the banquet
halls?"
She lost a little of her smile as she turned to face the doors to the hall. "It's just...I don't like being with too many
people..."
"Why is that?"
"It's just...that...I'm shy...of other people...it...also makes me...feel uncomfortable."
Arthel shook his head slightly, "Better get used to it princess. After all you are now one of Queen Serenity's senshi and
you would be dealing with a lot of people...and most will not be as polite as the people in there right now."
"I know...but still..."
"Think of this as a little training for you...it may help you a little in dealing with other people, and..."
"And?"
"Never think you are alone. I and the other senshi will not hesitate to be there for you."
Somehow what Arthel said made her blush.
"Arthel! Melira!" A voice was heard from behind them, and they turned to see Princess Lithea running towards them.
"Lithea!" Melira squealed happily as she hugged her distant cousin. "It's been so long since I last saw you!"
"I know, been busy really. I have been looking for Arthel here because your mother asked me to look for you since you
haven't shown up at the halls yet."
Melira looked abashed, "I'm sorry...it's just..."
"Still don't like being in a crowd eh?"
Princess of Mercury merely nodded.
"Don't worry, Melira. You'll get used to it."
Melira couldn't help but noticed as to how close her cousin was standing next to Arthel was.
"Umm...you two seemed very close."
Arthel and Lithea blushed as her comment. "Actually..." Lithea started "He's my fiancé. He asked me last week if I wanted to
marry him and I said yes."
The two looked lovingly into each other as they failed to notice a look of disappointment flooded Melira's face.
'Guess he was taken already, by my cousin no less...*sigh* She cleared her throat as to get the attention of the other two.
"I'm happy for the both of you! Congratulations Lithea!" She hugged her cousin again. "So when's the wedding?"
The three started talking about the imminent occasion as they walked towards the banquet halls.
~ Mizuno Residence ~
Ami just sighed; she remembered how her past self felt about Arthel...Ranma. She hid her feelings then because she cared too
much for her cousin too and it was also because she saw the way Arthel looked at Lithea that made her decide not to
interfere.
'It was like that then...it's still is now...those two are still very much in love with each other.'
Ami shook her head to clear it of confusing thoughts. She took one last glance outside before deciding to sleep again. This
time it was a dreamless sleep.
Unknown to her, Luna watched her from the tree outside. 'Seems like Ami just had a dream of the old Silver Millennium...I
wonder if I should ask her about it?' Luna pondered this for a moment before she left, heading back towards the Tsukino
residence.
~ Hikawa Shrine, midnight ~
Grandfather Hino was making late night rounds in the shrine to ensure everything was in order since his disciple Yuuichirou
was out of town. He paused momentarily as he neared the sacred fire. He smiled inwardly, guessing who was the one
meditating in front of the sacred fire.
He walked in slowly into the room, "You should be resting now Rei. You have school tomorrow." He paused, then corrected
himself "Make that later, since it's already morning."
Rei opened her eyes slowly. She felt her grandfather's presence even before he entered the room, so she wasn't surprised by
his voice at all. "I'll be done in a minute grandfather."
"What's keeping you awake dear?" the elder Hino asked.
"Nothing really grandfather...Ranma just taught me some methods of ki- manipulation that I could use during my fire-readings and
I'm currently trying it out."
"Is that so? Was it any help?"
Rei nodded, "Quite really. I never got such clear readings before. He said the method he taught me was just the first step.
Other more complex meditations are to follow once I fully master this one."
Grandfather Hino nodded with pride. His grandchildren were exceptional indeed. His grandson was a top caliber martial
artist that has incorporated ki-techniques into the art. While his granddaughter was no martial artist, she was no slacker
in terms of ki-meditations and was even quick to learn from her cousin. "That's all well and good Rei. But even shrine
maidens need their rest. Now off to bed!"
"Yes grandfather."
Grandfather Hino left. He knows Rei will not leave the sacred fire until she feels she has done all what she can, and right
now it may be a while before she goes to bed. He never lost his smile as he continues his rounds. "Those young ones are all
too alike. They are always in a rush."
Rei was left in the sacred fire. She continued her fire-readings. She felt another force...something very powerful...yet so
kind and gentle at the same time. 'Ranma and Akane said that they died a month before the fall of the Silver Millennium...so
it couldn't be Queen Serenity that sent them to the future...but another force...the one I'm feeling now.' She shook her head
to clear it of all distractions. What she told her grandfather was true, she has now much clearer image in her readings than
before but...this entity with such power and such gentleness she could not point out.
'Heh, if I didn't know better I'm guessing is that the kami themselves are blocking my fire-readings.' She laughs a little
on that private joke. 'Guess grandfather is correct, I do need my sleep. Perhaps Ranma can help me with other meditation
techniques and see if I can finally see who or what this force is.'
She gave one final respect to the scared fire before she left the room. After she has gone, a quiet whisper could be heard
from the sacred fire: 'It's not yet time for you to know us, Rei. But soon...perhaps...'
~ Gates of Time ~
Sailor Pluto was still watching the wild fluctuation of the future. Crystal Tokyo and Metallia's unmentionable alternative.
Still she felt something like confidence that they can make it out in one piece. After all, the senshi are now virtually
complete. Powers of the elements are at their disposal, not to mention the combined powers of Time and Space.
Her thoughts lingered to that of Vesta and Sun. 'You can run but you can't hide forever you two!' She smiled. She had
forgotten how much it felt good when you smile. Her smile was lost when she looked at the wild fluctuation. A third
probable outcome manifested itself. She gasped at what she saw.
"By the gods!!! It...it couldn't be!"
Then she noticed the original two visions gradually was ceding against the third future. Before she could react a portal
opened itself in front of her, and out step a man dressed in regal armor.
"You shall not interfere in our affairs mortal." The stranger said casually.
Sailor Pluto prepared to battle the stranger, but was caught unaware of his speed. Before she could react, she finds herself
thrown out of the Gates of Time. "What the..."
"Be thankful I did not kill you mortal. Your future has been decided." The Gates of Time slowly closed while Sailor Pluto
sat there, watching helplessly.
~ Next Morning, en route to Juuban High ~
Ranma, Akane, and Ami were walking together towards Juuban High, after seeing Hotaru off to her school.
"I still say we should ask Haruka and Michiru to transfer Hotaru to Juuban High so at least we can watch over her."
Ranma shook his head, Lithea...Akane can be so over-protective sometimes.
Ami merely giggled, "So...did you two study for our history test today?"
Akane nodded but soon noticed Ranma stiffened. "Don't tell me you forgot Ranma?"
Ranma merely grunted, and Akane slapped her forehead. "Baka!"
Usagi chose that moment to appear (To know why she is early? Hard to say...she's harder to predict than a Tornado would appear
^_^). "Ohayou, minna-san!" She gleefully greets her friends.
"Ohayou, Usagi-chan." Akane and Ami chorused together.
Usagi smiled but notices Ranma's distress. "Umm...what's wrong with Ranma?"
"Apparently..." Akane began, "He forgot to study for our history test."
Usagi nodded, but soon Akane's word struck home. "WE HAVE A TEST?!"
Everyone within a five-mile radius could have sworn they heard a sonic boom pass over them.
~~~
After calming down a crying Usagi, Ranma and the others continued to school.
"I think I'm not feeling well..."
"Nice try Usagi. But you won't get off the hook that easy." Akane said grimly.
Ami merely smiled, while stealing glances at Ranma.
They were close to school when they noticed Setsuna leaning heavily against the wall, she was apparently breathing hard.
"Setsuna!" Ami and Usagi called out as they ran towards her. Ranma and Akane followed suit.
"What happened to you?" Ami asked.
"Setsuna eyed Ranma and Akane briefly, "Umm. It's kind of _private_, perhaps later."
Ami and Usagi understood what she meant by private. Ranma and Akane too, but did not show it in their faces. And Ami knew
that Ranma and Akane would understand as well.
"I see...well we better get you to the school clinic then. Ranma how about some help?"
Ranma nodded at Ami's instruction and help Setsuna up.
'Who ever did this to Setsuna would have to be extremely good.' This though echoed in the minds of the four teens.
'Hmmm...now that I think about it...Rei's cousin Ranma looks familiar...' is what's echoing in Setsuna's mind.
~ Juuban Museum ~
Cephei emerged from the shadows. 'Good...more than enough people to cause a commotion to acquire the senshi's notice.' She
motioned to her omicron youma to begin its attack.
People's screams and Cephei's mad laughter filled the museum's halls.
To be continued...
Author's Notes: Up next, the Nerima Wrecking crew finally makes their debut...will Ryouga survive Akane's wrath? Oh and
Happy Easter!!!