Title: A Broken Promise
Author: Matrix
Chapter 3: A Battle and a ÔPremonitionÕ
AuthorÕs Notes: Konnichiwa minna-chan! IÕm back, with another chapter. Anyway, another new character is introduced...alongside a few old ones...eh...youÕll see! Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I donÕt own Sailor Moon and friends. But I -do- own Kimitsu and Wakeru. [So THERE!] ^.~
Character Name Changes:
Cooan=Catzi
Beruche=Bertie
Kalveras=Avery
Petz=Prizma
Ah, gomen nasai! gomen nasai! I feel like such an evil person right now. Hai, I have finally got off my lazy butt and found the Japanese versions of the four sistersÕs names, and I will be using them from now on. Gomen, gomen...[Also: Demando=Diamond.]
[Story START]
ÔBring out the sake. IÕve come for a visit.Õ
Instinctively, the whole group sent their gazes skyward, only to be greeted by the smirking face of one, Wakeru. He stood, looking very comfortable, in the middle of the thinnest of roof beams. PetzÕs description of him really didnÕt do him justice, Minako and Makoto both concluded as a sort of side thought.
Looks definitely had nothing to do with how sullied your soul was, obviously. Though this boy had been described as some sort of demon to be feared, his charming boyish looks were enough to create a weak spot in the senshisÕ defenses. Mamoru, completely and 100% straight, [fortunately for Usagi], Rei having had sworn off men for the time being, Haruka and Michiru already in love, watched on in disgust as the rest of the girls ogled this young man, whom until now had said nothing.
ÒYou know...I think having an infatuation with the man who took part in your princessÕs capture, is a big no-no,Ó Rei sneered sardonically, as the rest of the girls regained their common senses.
Ami turned to face Rei, her VR Goggles* apparent over her blue eyes. She had not been ÔinfatuatedÕ with him; yet was examining him.
ÒWell, what are we waiting for? Transform!Ó Haruka ordered, her transformation wand appearing out of thin air.
Cries of transformation spells echoed throughout the complex, bouncing off the walls. As their civilian clothes melted off of them, Tuxedo Kamen and the senshi, defenders of the solar system appeared before Wakeru, eyes all shining with honor.
ÒSo, pretty boy--wanna tell us where Usagi-chan is? Or shall we do this the -hard- way?!Ó Jupiter hollered, lightening flickering threateningly in her gloved palms. Remembering what had happened to their dear princess had made this ÔhandsomeÕ young man appear like some sort of deformed mutant gone wrong in JupiterÕs eyes.
Wakeru chuckled, an identical laugh to his sisterÕs, but in a lower octave. It had the same tune of chaos his sibling possessed in her own laugh. ÒAh. Makoto Kino, isnÕt it?Ó
Tuxedo Kamen balled his hands into fists, tired of this sort of replayed act. ÒLook--knowing our names and such wonÕt help make you seem special. I donÕt care if you list off each and every purchase I made at the grocery store for the past year; nothing can faze me right now.Ó
Wakeru snickered, grinning at Tuxedo Kamen. He leaned forward, his balance on the thin piece of wood impeccable. ÒThe boyfriend, isnÕt it? I canÕt say I know how you feel...it must be obvious IÕm not a one-woman man. Yet--anyone could tell that youÕd kill just to win her back. We couldÕve used someone with your amount of hatred back in the Black MoonÕs first tried invasion...unlike some traitors.Ó
The four sisters glared contemptuously at the confident Black Moon official, making it clear to him that they did not regret their decision.
ÒDonÕt even -try- to lower me down to your peopleÕs level,Ó the cloaked Terran hissed.
WakeruÕs smirk just became more evident as he continued, ÒDonÕt pretend. IÕve seen the girl...Usagi. Right when Kimitsu arrived back at the base. SheÕs really beautiful. Pale white skin...luscious curves...golden honey hair...Ó
Tuxedo Kamen took a step forward; he would not have -anyone- talk about his Usako like this.
ÒMamoru. Keep your cool,Ó Neptune muttered.
Wakeru grinned as he saw the beast-like fury presenting itself in the former Earth princeÕs face. He loved how he could read peopleÕs emotions like a book and provoke them to no end. ÒOh, donÕt worry, the prince will Ôtake careÕ of your princess,Ó Wakeru said, the words sliding off his tounge like oil, Òbut when heÕs too busy with his domination plans...IÕd like to have a taste of her,Ó he polished this statement off while sliding his tounge over his lips.
Various soldierÕs faces flushed and others stared at him with disgust. Tuxedo Kamen, on the other hand, did not stay rooted to the spot for Wakeru to survey his reaction. He had already acted on the rage building ever-so quickly inside of him and lunged, using his amazing jumping ability, straight at Wakeru. ÒYouÕre so DEAD!Ó our lovable masked man screamed, abandoning any of his usual speeches on love and friendship prevailing overall.
Wakeru was heard to snicker, as he jumped aside, landing on the next roof beam over. ÒTry again,Ó he commanded.
Tuxedo KamenÕs breath was heavy, as he summoned his sword, hidden in a cane*, out of nowhere.
Wakeru nodded knowingly, grinning again. ÒSword play then? All right, needed something to put my rusting spear up against, anyway. Prepare yourself.Ó A gleaming blade materialised in front of the Black Moon cooperative, its handle a deep shade of black. The spearÕs metal was wrapped around with a sort of dark light*. Wakeru took the sword in hand, making it point straight at Tuxedo KamenÕs heart, hiding below cloth and skin. ÒAnd tell your little friends to stay out of the way, eh? This is a manÕs battle.Ó
Tuxedo Kamen, surprisingly enough, obliged to WakeruÕs wish. ÒYou guys stand down. This guyÕs mine.Ó he hissed coldly, mirroring WakeruÕs actions and pointing his sword at WakeruÕs heart, which he estimated was black and withering away by now. The protests that followed went unnoticed, or, rather, ignored.
Wakeru grinned. ÒLetÕs begin.Ó
CLASH! CLASH! Tuxedo Kamen narrowly missed taking a swipe at the head. The ÔtwangÕ of both fighting instruments echoed ominously throughout the whole building. He swung the cane around again, trying to get WakeruÕs back, yet, Wakeru ducked, his moves almost snake-like.
Then out of nowhere, Wakeru cried, ÒICE DAGGERS!Ó Millions of pinpricks of ice appeared from WakeruÕs sword-free hand and headed straight at MamoruÕs face. He moved to the side, pondering why Wakeru would use such an elementary move, when it happened. Wakeru had obviously thought this attack through: as Tuxedo Kamen moved aside to avoid the ice daggers, Wakeru swung his sword, sticking it into Tuxedo KamenÕs side, emitting a grunt of pain from the future neo-king of earth. The tuxedo-wearing hero tumbled down, off the roof beam, completely blinded by the pain.
Uranus positioned herself right under Tuxedo KamenÕs falling form. She caught him, feeling his restless body against her own. She gently laid him down on the marble floor of the shop, trying to examine the fatality of the wound.
As he stood on the rooftop, Wakeru muttered a few choice words, and the sword suddenly disappeared from its position in Tuxedo KamenÕs body and reappeared in WakeruÕs right hand. There was not even a drop of blood to be found on the blade. ÒHeh. Instant wash. How nifty,Ó Wakeru commented, smiling malevolently. He then focused his gaze on the group gathered below. ÒYou have seen just a slice of the power I posses. Now consider that power times five hundred Black Moon warriors. IÕll save your minuscule minds of going to the trouble of having to work out the solution to this equation. YouÕre going to lose. Heh. Class dismissed.Ó With this final mocking comment, Wakeru vanished. Unlike his sister, he did not call upon a portal to transport him, he just...disappeared.
ÒI--I was going to attack and...Ó Mars trailed on, staring at her hands in shock. On the tips of her ten fingers were ten mini-fires. ÒI just couldnÕt attack. ItÕs like I forgot how to...I didnÕt remember the spell words at all...Ó
ÒHe used some sort of disabling power of his, probably,Ó Bertie started, sighing resolutely.
Another silence settled among the lot of them, before KalverasÕs tired voice broke in, ÒGo home. I know you guys have school tomorrow.Ó
ÒNani?! Are you kidding me?!Ó Venus cried, blue eyes wide and questioning.
ÒHow can we even -think- about school now?!Ó Mercury yelled, incredulous. Though studious, Ami couldnÕt just resume back to studying when she knew Usagi needed their help.
The former Black Moon crony looked over worn as she answered, her words slow and slurred, ÒLook. I want you all to just...resume back to your lives right now. The four of us will do research day and night until we get any information. Promise.Ó
Haruka stared angrily at Kalveras, both appalled and infuriated by the mere suggestion that they all rest while Usagi was still out there under the power of some mad prince. ÒLook! We have a princess, no, a -friend- to protect, and--Ó
ÒBlack Moon will come to us again. Trust me. TheyÕre all so arrogant. So why waste your time and effort trying to find them, when they will just come back to us?Ó Cooan said this, all syllables filled with reassurance, so that it was hard for Haruka to yell back a response.
But have we ever known Haruka to not at least -try- to get in the last word? DonÕt think so.
HarukaÕs green eyes were slit, as she stared suspiciously at the four sisters. ÒHow can we be so sure youÕre still not working for -them-?Ó
ÒAre you implying that--Ó
Haruka crossed her arms over her chest, staring at them with distrust etched clearly across her face. ÒYou know -clearly- as to what IÕm ÔimplyingÕ.Ó
At a loss for words, Petz shook her head. ÒGo home. Just...-go home-.Ó
Grumbles and mutters filled the air as the senshi detransformed and helped carry MamoruÕs still shivering form to his apartment, leaving four shaken sisters to wonder why the past wouldnÕt just leave them in peace.
~*~At MamoruÕs Apartment~*~
MamoruÕs violent shaking was still not put to a halt as he lay down on his bedÕs satin sheets. The wound had been bandaged, but other than that, the girls had to let Mamoru heal on his own. His friends watched their prince struggle with both physical, as well as emotional pain, clearly still there by the pained look on his usually calm face.
An hour went by and MamoruÕs completely regained health still lay unattainable. Rei concentrated on MamoruÕs face and said, ÒYou guys should go home...IÕll watch over Mamoru.Ó
ÒYou sure?Ó Minako asked, raising a skeptical eyebrow.
Rei smirked. ÒI pretty much run the temple all on my own. ThisÕll be cake.Ó
After a few more reassurances, Rei found herself sitting by MamoruÕs bedside alone, watching her friend stir restlessly.
But a girl does need her sleep...
***ReiÕs Dream***
Rei wandered through a meadow, filled with mixtures of beautiful flowers. She was befitted in a white gown, the light noon breeze making the fabric sway. The Sun above was warm against her skin, making the shrine maiden smile; everything was so right...nothing could hurt her in this dream world.
She continued to take a stroll among the flowers when she spotted them, white and delicate-looking: Casablancas, her favorite flower!
Excited, she ran towards them, and kneeled down on the dewy grass right when she reached them. Except, when she looked at them carefully, they were no longer Casablancas, but white roses...UsagiÕs favorite flower...
ReiÕs violet eyes grew wide as various recollections all at once ran through her mind: Usagi slung over KimitsuÕs shoulder, seemingly lifeless; Usagi no longer with them, but with Black Moon...
The black-haired girl stood, fueled now with rage. She stared around her, searching for any exit. However, there were none, just endless acres of flowers.
ÒSilly little princess...Ó
Rei froze; someone else was here with her.
ÒCanÕt seem to find your way out, can you?Ó the voice was light. More than likely female.
In all exasperation, Rei snapped, ÒWho are you?! Show yourself!Ó
The high-pitched voice gave a mocking laugh, before another voice interrupted, this one deep and soothing, ÒDo not mind her. After months in seclusion, the poor girl has gone insane.Ó
Immediately, the high-pitched voice took on a tone of deep annoyance, ÒOh -shut up-!Ó it hissed, ÒyouÕre no better than I, Saffiru!Ó
Rei gasped. Saffiru?! DemandoÕs late brother, Saffiru?!
ÔSaffiruÕ now sighed, ÒWell, there goes my mysterious air. Thanks a lot, Esmeraude.Ó
Rei winced. Esmeraude. The woman who would stop at nothing to win DemandoÕs heart. [Even become a black dragon!] ...Kami-sama help us all.
After a muttered, ÒOh very well,Ó both appeared in front of Rei, the distance between the duo and the Martian only about one foot.
They were both exactly as Rei remembered. Esmeraude with her long, light green locks. And Saffiru looking...somewhat like Mamoru in a blue wig.
Saffiru was first to speak, ÒWe have sent you this premonition, Ms. Hino--Ó
Rei smirked. ÒYou call -this- a premonition? WhereÕs the destruction? ThereÕs -flowers- here for crying out loud!Ó You can always count on Rei to say the worst possible thing at the worst possible time.
SaffiruÕs left eyebrow twitched, as Esmeraude bit out angrily, ÒListen here, brat! We thought that your fragile mental psyche would -burst- if we sent you that type of imagery! So weÕre doing you a -favor-!Ó
Rei glared at her. ÒFRAGILE mental psyche?! If I had such a FRAGILE mental psyche, I wouldnÕt be able to handle all those blows to the head IÕve taken from countless enemies!Ó
Saffiru bit his lower lip out of annoyance. How he hated it when he was being interrupted. ÒIf you girls are over your stupid hissy fits,Ó he sneered, stopping the 2 young women from further insulting one another, ÒIÕd -love- to continue.Ó
No arguments there.
ÒMiss Hino. WeÕve sent you this...premonition, dream, vision; whatever youÕd like to call it, because we know what happened to your friend, Usagi.Ó
Out of nowhere, Rei lunged at Saffiru, grasping his right arm tightly in her grip. ÒYou know where she is?! Do you?!Ó Saffiru laboriously managed to tug his arm away from ReiÕs almost over-powering grip. ÒHai. I do. Yet, we must talk later; tomorrow. Meet us in the place where your leaderÕs heart has once been stolen.Ó
The Martian frowned. ÒNani? And why canÕt you tell me now?Ó
Saffiru and Esmeraude both grinned simultaneously. ÒBecause youÕre about to wake up.Ó ***end***
ÒRei-chan, wake up...wake up...Ó
Rei opened one bleary eye and asked, amazed, ÒSaffiru-san?! YouÕre out of my dream!Ó
The being that had appeared to be Saffiru blinked. ÒSaffiru? Iie, Rei-chan: itÕs me, Mamoru.Ó
Rei regained complete, clear vision and saw that it was no lie: It was Mamoru hovering over her, not Saffiru. However, that only led the young woman to wonder why -Mamoru- was hovering over -her-. He was supposed to be in bed...ill...
ÒMamoru? Why are you--Ó
ÒBetter?Ó the black-haired man interrupted. He shrugged in reply. ÒNo clue. I just suddenly woke up and felt 100% better. Weird.Ó
Rei sighed. ÒNot as weird as my dream. Both Saffiru and Esmeraude were there...Ó Mamoru stopped his pacing to stare at Rei, interested. After a brief retelling of the incident in her mind, Rei grimaced. ÒDo you think that this is a legit meeting? Or am I just completely crazy?Ó
The Earth prince shook his head. ÒYouÕre not crazy. If anything, we should go: just in case.Ó
Rei stare lingered a bit into MamoruÕs eyes. Stormy blue eyes like the sea. Violent waves tossing and turning restlessly. ÒMamoru...donÕt do anything reckless, okay?Ó
Mamoru didnÕt return the psychicÕs glance; instead he chose to stare blankly at a stray book on the floor, reading: Human Psychology. He remembered reading that one professorÕs theory was that though humans had a varying range of emotions, anger was primary. Rage was the basis of every action taken. Mamoru was beginning to believe that that professor was right. Everything Mamoru had done since Usagi had been captured was fueled by anger. So how could he promise anyone, even one of his best friends, that he wouldnÕt do something reckless? Something stupid? Surely he would try, yet...
ÒGomen ne, Rei-chan...I wonÕt make promises I canÕt possibly keep.Ó
AuthorÕs Concluding Notes: EH! DONÕT SHOOT! DONÕT SHOOT! -hides from the rabid readers- I know this chapter sucked, but IÕve been having tremendous writerÕs block this week. -whimpers- I hate it, really I do. But IÕll try to make my next chapter a better one...may my muse return back to me...-goes starry-eyed- Send C&C to thepinkmatrix@aol.com or reviiiiiiew! Oh, any by the way, isnÕt Wakeru the ever lovable lilÕ perv? -shakes her head- ^.^;
Explanations:
1. VR Goggles: This is a nifty item that our dear Ami-chan possesses. She uses to scan an enemy for any weak spots...their energy ratings...etc. --wishes she had one of those-
2. sword hidden in a cane: I do recall an episode where the handle of Tuxedo Kamen-samaÕs cane was cut off and it revealed a blade inside. [THAT, or I could have just been imagining it...^.^;]
3. Dark Light: haha. That is -SUCH- an oxymoron.
ÔTill next chapter!
Author: Matrix
Chapter 3: A Battle and a ÔPremonitionÕ
AuthorÕs Notes: Konnichiwa minna-chan! IÕm back, with another chapter. Anyway, another new character is introduced...alongside a few old ones...eh...youÕll see! Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I donÕt own Sailor Moon and friends. But I -do- own Kimitsu and Wakeru. [So THERE!] ^.~
Character Name Changes:
Cooan=Catzi
Beruche=Bertie
Kalveras=Avery
Petz=Prizma
Ah, gomen nasai! gomen nasai! I feel like such an evil person right now. Hai, I have finally got off my lazy butt and found the Japanese versions of the four sistersÕs names, and I will be using them from now on. Gomen, gomen...[Also: Demando=Diamond.]
[Story START]
ÔBring out the sake. IÕve come for a visit.Õ
Instinctively, the whole group sent their gazes skyward, only to be greeted by the smirking face of one, Wakeru. He stood, looking very comfortable, in the middle of the thinnest of roof beams. PetzÕs description of him really didnÕt do him justice, Minako and Makoto both concluded as a sort of side thought.
Looks definitely had nothing to do with how sullied your soul was, obviously. Though this boy had been described as some sort of demon to be feared, his charming boyish looks were enough to create a weak spot in the senshisÕ defenses. Mamoru, completely and 100% straight, [fortunately for Usagi], Rei having had sworn off men for the time being, Haruka and Michiru already in love, watched on in disgust as the rest of the girls ogled this young man, whom until now had said nothing.
ÒYou know...I think having an infatuation with the man who took part in your princessÕs capture, is a big no-no,Ó Rei sneered sardonically, as the rest of the girls regained their common senses.
Ami turned to face Rei, her VR Goggles* apparent over her blue eyes. She had not been ÔinfatuatedÕ with him; yet was examining him.
ÒWell, what are we waiting for? Transform!Ó Haruka ordered, her transformation wand appearing out of thin air.
Cries of transformation spells echoed throughout the complex, bouncing off the walls. As their civilian clothes melted off of them, Tuxedo Kamen and the senshi, defenders of the solar system appeared before Wakeru, eyes all shining with honor.
ÒSo, pretty boy--wanna tell us where Usagi-chan is? Or shall we do this the -hard- way?!Ó Jupiter hollered, lightening flickering threateningly in her gloved palms. Remembering what had happened to their dear princess had made this ÔhandsomeÕ young man appear like some sort of deformed mutant gone wrong in JupiterÕs eyes.
Wakeru chuckled, an identical laugh to his sisterÕs, but in a lower octave. It had the same tune of chaos his sibling possessed in her own laugh. ÒAh. Makoto Kino, isnÕt it?Ó
Tuxedo Kamen balled his hands into fists, tired of this sort of replayed act. ÒLook--knowing our names and such wonÕt help make you seem special. I donÕt care if you list off each and every purchase I made at the grocery store for the past year; nothing can faze me right now.Ó
Wakeru snickered, grinning at Tuxedo Kamen. He leaned forward, his balance on the thin piece of wood impeccable. ÒThe boyfriend, isnÕt it? I canÕt say I know how you feel...it must be obvious IÕm not a one-woman man. Yet--anyone could tell that youÕd kill just to win her back. We couldÕve used someone with your amount of hatred back in the Black MoonÕs first tried invasion...unlike some traitors.Ó
The four sisters glared contemptuously at the confident Black Moon official, making it clear to him that they did not regret their decision.
ÒDonÕt even -try- to lower me down to your peopleÕs level,Ó the cloaked Terran hissed.
WakeruÕs smirk just became more evident as he continued, ÒDonÕt pretend. IÕve seen the girl...Usagi. Right when Kimitsu arrived back at the base. SheÕs really beautiful. Pale white skin...luscious curves...golden honey hair...Ó
Tuxedo Kamen took a step forward; he would not have -anyone- talk about his Usako like this.
ÒMamoru. Keep your cool,Ó Neptune muttered.
Wakeru grinned as he saw the beast-like fury presenting itself in the former Earth princeÕs face. He loved how he could read peopleÕs emotions like a book and provoke them to no end. ÒOh, donÕt worry, the prince will Ôtake careÕ of your princess,Ó Wakeru said, the words sliding off his tounge like oil, Òbut when heÕs too busy with his domination plans...IÕd like to have a taste of her,Ó he polished this statement off while sliding his tounge over his lips.
Various soldierÕs faces flushed and others stared at him with disgust. Tuxedo Kamen, on the other hand, did not stay rooted to the spot for Wakeru to survey his reaction. He had already acted on the rage building ever-so quickly inside of him and lunged, using his amazing jumping ability, straight at Wakeru. ÒYouÕre so DEAD!Ó our lovable masked man screamed, abandoning any of his usual speeches on love and friendship prevailing overall.
Wakeru was heard to snicker, as he jumped aside, landing on the next roof beam over. ÒTry again,Ó he commanded.
Tuxedo KamenÕs breath was heavy, as he summoned his sword, hidden in a cane*, out of nowhere.
Wakeru nodded knowingly, grinning again. ÒSword play then? All right, needed something to put my rusting spear up against, anyway. Prepare yourself.Ó A gleaming blade materialised in front of the Black Moon cooperative, its handle a deep shade of black. The spearÕs metal was wrapped around with a sort of dark light*. Wakeru took the sword in hand, making it point straight at Tuxedo KamenÕs heart, hiding below cloth and skin. ÒAnd tell your little friends to stay out of the way, eh? This is a manÕs battle.Ó
Tuxedo Kamen, surprisingly enough, obliged to WakeruÕs wish. ÒYou guys stand down. This guyÕs mine.Ó he hissed coldly, mirroring WakeruÕs actions and pointing his sword at WakeruÕs heart, which he estimated was black and withering away by now. The protests that followed went unnoticed, or, rather, ignored.
Wakeru grinned. ÒLetÕs begin.Ó
CLASH! CLASH! Tuxedo Kamen narrowly missed taking a swipe at the head. The ÔtwangÕ of both fighting instruments echoed ominously throughout the whole building. He swung the cane around again, trying to get WakeruÕs back, yet, Wakeru ducked, his moves almost snake-like.
Then out of nowhere, Wakeru cried, ÒICE DAGGERS!Ó Millions of pinpricks of ice appeared from WakeruÕs sword-free hand and headed straight at MamoruÕs face. He moved to the side, pondering why Wakeru would use such an elementary move, when it happened. Wakeru had obviously thought this attack through: as Tuxedo Kamen moved aside to avoid the ice daggers, Wakeru swung his sword, sticking it into Tuxedo KamenÕs side, emitting a grunt of pain from the future neo-king of earth. The tuxedo-wearing hero tumbled down, off the roof beam, completely blinded by the pain.
Uranus positioned herself right under Tuxedo KamenÕs falling form. She caught him, feeling his restless body against her own. She gently laid him down on the marble floor of the shop, trying to examine the fatality of the wound.
As he stood on the rooftop, Wakeru muttered a few choice words, and the sword suddenly disappeared from its position in Tuxedo KamenÕs body and reappeared in WakeruÕs right hand. There was not even a drop of blood to be found on the blade. ÒHeh. Instant wash. How nifty,Ó Wakeru commented, smiling malevolently. He then focused his gaze on the group gathered below. ÒYou have seen just a slice of the power I posses. Now consider that power times five hundred Black Moon warriors. IÕll save your minuscule minds of going to the trouble of having to work out the solution to this equation. YouÕre going to lose. Heh. Class dismissed.Ó With this final mocking comment, Wakeru vanished. Unlike his sister, he did not call upon a portal to transport him, he just...disappeared.
ÒI--I was going to attack and...Ó Mars trailed on, staring at her hands in shock. On the tips of her ten fingers were ten mini-fires. ÒI just couldnÕt attack. ItÕs like I forgot how to...I didnÕt remember the spell words at all...Ó
ÒHe used some sort of disabling power of his, probably,Ó Bertie started, sighing resolutely.
Another silence settled among the lot of them, before KalverasÕs tired voice broke in, ÒGo home. I know you guys have school tomorrow.Ó
ÒNani?! Are you kidding me?!Ó Venus cried, blue eyes wide and questioning.
ÒHow can we even -think- about school now?!Ó Mercury yelled, incredulous. Though studious, Ami couldnÕt just resume back to studying when she knew Usagi needed their help.
The former Black Moon crony looked over worn as she answered, her words slow and slurred, ÒLook. I want you all to just...resume back to your lives right now. The four of us will do research day and night until we get any information. Promise.Ó
Haruka stared angrily at Kalveras, both appalled and infuriated by the mere suggestion that they all rest while Usagi was still out there under the power of some mad prince. ÒLook! We have a princess, no, a -friend- to protect, and--Ó
ÒBlack Moon will come to us again. Trust me. TheyÕre all so arrogant. So why waste your time and effort trying to find them, when they will just come back to us?Ó Cooan said this, all syllables filled with reassurance, so that it was hard for Haruka to yell back a response.
But have we ever known Haruka to not at least -try- to get in the last word? DonÕt think so.
HarukaÕs green eyes were slit, as she stared suspiciously at the four sisters. ÒHow can we be so sure youÕre still not working for -them-?Ó
ÒAre you implying that--Ó
Haruka crossed her arms over her chest, staring at them with distrust etched clearly across her face. ÒYou know -clearly- as to what IÕm ÔimplyingÕ.Ó
At a loss for words, Petz shook her head. ÒGo home. Just...-go home-.Ó
Grumbles and mutters filled the air as the senshi detransformed and helped carry MamoruÕs still shivering form to his apartment, leaving four shaken sisters to wonder why the past wouldnÕt just leave them in peace.
~*~At MamoruÕs Apartment~*~
MamoruÕs violent shaking was still not put to a halt as he lay down on his bedÕs satin sheets. The wound had been bandaged, but other than that, the girls had to let Mamoru heal on his own. His friends watched their prince struggle with both physical, as well as emotional pain, clearly still there by the pained look on his usually calm face.
An hour went by and MamoruÕs completely regained health still lay unattainable. Rei concentrated on MamoruÕs face and said, ÒYou guys should go home...IÕll watch over Mamoru.Ó
ÒYou sure?Ó Minako asked, raising a skeptical eyebrow.
Rei smirked. ÒI pretty much run the temple all on my own. ThisÕll be cake.Ó
After a few more reassurances, Rei found herself sitting by MamoruÕs bedside alone, watching her friend stir restlessly.
But a girl does need her sleep...
***ReiÕs Dream***
Rei wandered through a meadow, filled with mixtures of beautiful flowers. She was befitted in a white gown, the light noon breeze making the fabric sway. The Sun above was warm against her skin, making the shrine maiden smile; everything was so right...nothing could hurt her in this dream world.
She continued to take a stroll among the flowers when she spotted them, white and delicate-looking: Casablancas, her favorite flower!
Excited, she ran towards them, and kneeled down on the dewy grass right when she reached them. Except, when she looked at them carefully, they were no longer Casablancas, but white roses...UsagiÕs favorite flower...
ReiÕs violet eyes grew wide as various recollections all at once ran through her mind: Usagi slung over KimitsuÕs shoulder, seemingly lifeless; Usagi no longer with them, but with Black Moon...
The black-haired girl stood, fueled now with rage. She stared around her, searching for any exit. However, there were none, just endless acres of flowers.
ÒSilly little princess...Ó
Rei froze; someone else was here with her.
ÒCanÕt seem to find your way out, can you?Ó the voice was light. More than likely female.
In all exasperation, Rei snapped, ÒWho are you?! Show yourself!Ó
The high-pitched voice gave a mocking laugh, before another voice interrupted, this one deep and soothing, ÒDo not mind her. After months in seclusion, the poor girl has gone insane.Ó
Immediately, the high-pitched voice took on a tone of deep annoyance, ÒOh -shut up-!Ó it hissed, ÒyouÕre no better than I, Saffiru!Ó
Rei gasped. Saffiru?! DemandoÕs late brother, Saffiru?!
ÔSaffiruÕ now sighed, ÒWell, there goes my mysterious air. Thanks a lot, Esmeraude.Ó
Rei winced. Esmeraude. The woman who would stop at nothing to win DemandoÕs heart. [Even become a black dragon!] ...Kami-sama help us all.
After a muttered, ÒOh very well,Ó both appeared in front of Rei, the distance between the duo and the Martian only about one foot.
They were both exactly as Rei remembered. Esmeraude with her long, light green locks. And Saffiru looking...somewhat like Mamoru in a blue wig.
Saffiru was first to speak, ÒWe have sent you this premonition, Ms. Hino--Ó
Rei smirked. ÒYou call -this- a premonition? WhereÕs the destruction? ThereÕs -flowers- here for crying out loud!Ó You can always count on Rei to say the worst possible thing at the worst possible time.
SaffiruÕs left eyebrow twitched, as Esmeraude bit out angrily, ÒListen here, brat! We thought that your fragile mental psyche would -burst- if we sent you that type of imagery! So weÕre doing you a -favor-!Ó
Rei glared at her. ÒFRAGILE mental psyche?! If I had such a FRAGILE mental psyche, I wouldnÕt be able to handle all those blows to the head IÕve taken from countless enemies!Ó
Saffiru bit his lower lip out of annoyance. How he hated it when he was being interrupted. ÒIf you girls are over your stupid hissy fits,Ó he sneered, stopping the 2 young women from further insulting one another, ÒIÕd -love- to continue.Ó
No arguments there.
ÒMiss Hino. WeÕve sent you this...premonition, dream, vision; whatever youÕd like to call it, because we know what happened to your friend, Usagi.Ó
Out of nowhere, Rei lunged at Saffiru, grasping his right arm tightly in her grip. ÒYou know where she is?! Do you?!Ó Saffiru laboriously managed to tug his arm away from ReiÕs almost over-powering grip. ÒHai. I do. Yet, we must talk later; tomorrow. Meet us in the place where your leaderÕs heart has once been stolen.Ó
The Martian frowned. ÒNani? And why canÕt you tell me now?Ó
Saffiru and Esmeraude both grinned simultaneously. ÒBecause youÕre about to wake up.Ó ***end***
ÒRei-chan, wake up...wake up...Ó
Rei opened one bleary eye and asked, amazed, ÒSaffiru-san?! YouÕre out of my dream!Ó
The being that had appeared to be Saffiru blinked. ÒSaffiru? Iie, Rei-chan: itÕs me, Mamoru.Ó
Rei regained complete, clear vision and saw that it was no lie: It was Mamoru hovering over her, not Saffiru. However, that only led the young woman to wonder why -Mamoru- was hovering over -her-. He was supposed to be in bed...ill...
ÒMamoru? Why are you--Ó
ÒBetter?Ó the black-haired man interrupted. He shrugged in reply. ÒNo clue. I just suddenly woke up and felt 100% better. Weird.Ó
Rei sighed. ÒNot as weird as my dream. Both Saffiru and Esmeraude were there...Ó Mamoru stopped his pacing to stare at Rei, interested. After a brief retelling of the incident in her mind, Rei grimaced. ÒDo you think that this is a legit meeting? Or am I just completely crazy?Ó
The Earth prince shook his head. ÒYouÕre not crazy. If anything, we should go: just in case.Ó
Rei stare lingered a bit into MamoruÕs eyes. Stormy blue eyes like the sea. Violent waves tossing and turning restlessly. ÒMamoru...donÕt do anything reckless, okay?Ó
Mamoru didnÕt return the psychicÕs glance; instead he chose to stare blankly at a stray book on the floor, reading: Human Psychology. He remembered reading that one professorÕs theory was that though humans had a varying range of emotions, anger was primary. Rage was the basis of every action taken. Mamoru was beginning to believe that that professor was right. Everything Mamoru had done since Usagi had been captured was fueled by anger. So how could he promise anyone, even one of his best friends, that he wouldnÕt do something reckless? Something stupid? Surely he would try, yet...
ÒGomen ne, Rei-chan...I wonÕt make promises I canÕt possibly keep.Ó
AuthorÕs Concluding Notes: EH! DONÕT SHOOT! DONÕT SHOOT! -hides from the rabid readers- I know this chapter sucked, but IÕve been having tremendous writerÕs block this week. -whimpers- I hate it, really I do. But IÕll try to make my next chapter a better one...may my muse return back to me...-goes starry-eyed- Send C&C to thepinkmatrix@aol.com or reviiiiiiew! Oh, any by the way, isnÕt Wakeru the ever lovable lilÕ perv? -shakes her head- ^.^;
Explanations:
1. VR Goggles: This is a nifty item that our dear Ami-chan possesses. She uses to scan an enemy for any weak spots...their energy ratings...etc. --wishes she had one of those-
2. sword hidden in a cane: I do recall an episode where the handle of Tuxedo Kamen-samaÕs cane was cut off and it revealed a blade inside. [THAT, or I could have just been imagining it...^.^;]
3. Dark Light: haha. That is -SUCH- an oxymoron.
ÔTill next chapter!