I'm sooo sorry this took so long! I tried writing action for the first time in this chapter!

THANK YOU goes to ChibiPyroDuo for all of the help with the action scene. I really appreciate the tips for improvement, and I tried to do so ;D

Okay, so last time's preview doesn't really work with what actually happens. So, I guess I'll try and give ya an updated preview without revealing too much =D

TODAY ON... Desiring Need!
More friends join the group! One of these friends is a Slytherin girl, and she's getting too-close-for-comfort to Draco... Or does it only seem that way to jealous Usagi? Why does it feel as though Draco is slipping away... Is it all in her mind? Is it the truth? Or is it an influence of something completely different...? Regardless of what is causing it, Usagi doesn't know how to deal with the situation in any other way than letting go... What will happen? Find out in today's episode... Jealousy!

x-x-x-x-

Desiring Need...

J e a l o u s y

"No way," Ron blurted, looking at Draco and Usagi with wide eyes. He turned his incredulous expression to Luna. The older woman bit her lower lip gently, trying desperately to maintain a professional demeanor.

"Well it's a last resort," she said hastily, "and not one I would avidly recommend on a normal basis."

"I don't see why not," Minako said with a sly grin. Everyone looked at her, baffled by her personality.

"Well, there are other more urgent matters more closely at hand," Luna began softly. "The three of you—Usagi, Minako, and Makoto—you will have the imperative mission of fighting the youmas in the school. The headmaster has been notified of this, as well as all of your teachers."

"Where has the headmaster been?" Harry interrupted abruptly. "I mean, I haven't really seen him for the majority of the year."

Luna nodded briefly. "Yes, he's been out a great deal in order to keep a closer surveillance of Beryl and Voldemort's progression. He left Snape and I in charge of matters here when he is not around."

"Seems like you and he have your hands full," Draco commented.

Luna offered him a faint smile. "That is where your father has been a big help, keeping Severus and I sane enough to continue." She turned back to Minako. "You have seen the power you possess the other day. You will now have to learn how to fully utilize this power. Minako, Makoto... although you are working alongside Usagi, it is your imperative mission to protect her."

Usagi frowned at this. "I'd never want them to risk their lives for my sake," she said quietly. "Let's just go about things as we usually do. I don't want things to start changing drastically all of a sudden."

The others nodded in a silent agreement, unaware of the somber smile that shadowed upon Luna's face. 'Oh Usagi...you really don't realize just how much things have already begun to change.'

x-x-x-x-

"Latèrre has failed, madam," whispered a raspy voice.

The young-looking woman who sat upon the throne-like chair glanced at the kneeling servant with cold eyes. "I'm not surprised," she replied in a cool tone, taking a sip of the dark liquid within the wine goblet she held.

"Still, it would have been nice to defeat them so quickly," the man sitting next to her mused lightly.

"Masster, Mistress," the servant croaked eagerly, "it would be my honor to defeat those silly foolssth."

A mocking smile curled upon the woman's ruby, crescent-shaped lips. "Oh, would it?" she all but cooed. "Fine. Go on with it, then. Do not fail me, lest you meet the same fate as Latèrre." The servant bowed respectfully from her kneeling position, scampering away quickly.

"Do you really think Screasha will complete the task?" the man asked, an underlying amusement in his tone.

"No," the woman sneered truthfully, her fiery red hair fluttering as she sharply turned her head to look at him. "But it will keep them busy while out power grows."

"True," he agreed softly, placing his hand lightly on top of hers. The woman glanced at the affectionate twining of their hands, a frown marring her beautiful face. Shifting her gaze back to his own, she managed a pleasant smile. This alliance was necessary, she reminded herself. Sometimes one had to go to extraordinary lengths for power...

And revenge.

x-x-x-

"The next step to this spell can be found on page 217. After the indicated steps, turn to page 221 and continue with the alternative method indicated within the picture," Professor McGonnagal explained in an all but droning voice. "Please be advised to not..." Her words trailed off upon seeing a breathless Ron Weasely enter the room. "Mister Weasely," McGonnogal said, a touch of irritation in her voice from being interrupted.

"Pu...Professor McGonnogal," he huffed out quickly. "Need... Usagi... Monster... Hallway..." He took a deep breath, regaining his composure. "Minako's already there, interrupted herbology." Usagi stood quickly, bowing respectfully to the professor. McGonnogal inclined her head, waving her consent. Ron ran out of the room, followed by Usagi quickly in toe.

x-x-x-

"Crescent beam!"

The circular stream of golden energy struck the female youma in her oddly shaped chest. A gaping hole was left in the attack's wake, a thick, black liquid trickling in steady streams from the injury. A loud scream erupted from the monster's purple lips, causing Sailor Venus to wince in pain. The shrieking sound continued, visible pulses of dark energy emerging from the wounded creature. As one of the waves swept over Sailor Venus, she collapsed to the ground, clutching her head in a feeble attempt to stop the sudden pain.

The dark blood that had flowed from the wound on the creature's chest slowly faded, the large hole shrinking rapidly until it disappeared. Screasha approached the wincing senshi at a crawl-like pace, cackling with her painfully harsh voice.

"Thssailor Venussth," she hissed, a heavy lisp evident in her raspy voice. Once the female youma stood directly in front of the pained senshi, a vicious smile twisted upon her dark purple lips. She leaned down close to Sailor Venus, her mouth parting. She let out a curt barking scream, black energy erupting in a sphere-shaped formation. The ball of darkness slammed into Sailor Venus, blasting her against the opposing wall. The senshi of love cried out in pain, collapsing from the feeble standing position she was forced into from the blow.

Sailor Venus gritted her teeth, standing once again with the wall as a frail means of support. "Venus...Love Me Chain!" she yelled, extending her arm with the whip-like entrapment of light energy.

The female youma jumped to the side, narrowly avoiding the attack from the injured senshi. "Thissth issthe end," whispered Screasha, opening her mouth wide. She let out another agonizing shriek, a large ball of dark energy charging at the weakened senshi.

An equally large circular ball of crackling green energy crashed into the attack, causing both spheres to explode in a nullifying effect. Screasha turned sharply to the source of the interruption. "Thssailor Jupiter," she hissed angrily.

The senshi of thunder barely spared a second glance at the youma, running over to her injured friend. "Minako!" she said urgently, kneeling next to her. "Are you alright?" she carefully shook the blonde's shoulder, worry clearly etched in her features.

Screasha smiled darkly, looking at the two. "How thsweet," she sneered raspily. "Your companionship will be your downfall. That'ssth why it'ssth better to work alone!" She roared the last word, jagged shards of energy coming forth from her mouth. Sailor Jupiter's eyes widened, barely managing to react to the sudden attack. She swiftly pushed Sailor Venus out of the way, scarcely avoiding the full blast of energy.

"Ssthand sstill and die," whispered the infuriated youma, preparing to attack again.

"Hey creep, who do you think you are!" cried an angered voice. The female youma rolled her copper eyes, turning to the newest arrival. There stood Sailor Moon, worry and anger quite apparent upon her face.

"You thsenshi are like fleas," hissed Screasha. "An annoying itch of a problem that needsth to be quickly alleviated. I am Screasha, and you are dead!" She finished with a loud yell, the dark swirls of energy charging at the moon warrior. Sailor Moon yelped as she barely scrambled to the side, looking at the youma angrily.

"Hey! That wasn't fair," she whined, inwardly preparing for an attack.

Screasha narrowed her eyes, annoyance flickering beneath the partially closed lids. "Thissth iss not a game of fairnessth," she replied icily.

Sailor Moon sighed, nodding vaguely. "I guess you're right... Moon Tiara Action!" The glowing discuss of energy struck soundly against the youma's midsection.

"No, Sailor Moon!" Sailor Venus cried out, far too late.

The youma shrieked in pain, the waves of energy pulsating from her mouth. Sailor Moon began to wince, her knees weakening. "What... What is this?" she asked weakly, seeing her tiara fall to the ground with a harmless clatter.

"Your power," Skreasha began softly, "is no match for mine!" A hollow scream began to come forth from her mouth, sure to hit the frozen senshi.

"Shabon Spray Freeze!"

A thick stream of icy blue energy flew into Screasha's mouth, a large circle of ice left protruding between her gaping lips. A misted fog settled upon the area, making it hard to see. Her coppery eyes widened immensely, clutching at her throat in a desperate attempt to breath.

"Sailor Moon, now!" said the soft-spoken voice of their unknown savior.

Sailor Moon nodded quickly, wasting no time. 'Please...please Ginzuishou,' she pleaded inwardly. She felt the soft, pulsing glow of energy, and the scepter materialized within her grasp. "Moon Princess Helation!"

The youma could not even groan in pain, her body quickly engulfed in the shimmering light. When the bright luminance subsided, only a thin pile of dust was left in its wake.

Sailor Moon hurried over to Sailor Jupiter and Venus, but it was the newest arrival who inquired about their condition. "Are you all alright?" she asked softly.

"We're fine," Sailor Venus said with a small smile, standing with the slight assistance of Sailor Jupiter. "Who are you?"

Almost as if on cue, the mist began to subside, revealing their assisting ally. She wore a sailor fuku similar to theirs, the majority of the outfit a deep shade of blue that matched her short hair. Her dark blue eyes were kind-looking, an appealing contrast to the soft smile upon her lips. "I am Sailor Mercury, a fellow inner senshi and guardian of the princess. Or..." She paused slightly, allowing her transformation to drop. "Ami Mizuno of the Ravenclaw house. Luna came to me the other day and reawakened my memories. It's nice to meet you—oh!"

She was cut off short upon being enveloped in a hug by the three senshi.

"Thank you for your help!"

"It's so nice to meet you!"

"Do ya have a boyfriend yet?" Everyone sweatdropped at Minako.

x-x-x-

The girls were forced to go back to their classes, having to catch up in the work they had missed. Indeed, prevailing over justice and finishing class work was proving immediately to be an arduous task to manage in itself. After several strenuous classes, they adjourned to the agreed location of the library along with Hermione. Ami turned out to be as smart, if not smarter, than her, striking an instant friendship.

"According to Luna, there is one more inner guardian. It seems she too resides in the school," Ami explained.

"Ohh, what planet senshi is it?" Minako asked with excitement.

"Sailor Mars," Hermione said logically. "Since Mars is the other inner planet."

"Right," Ami confirmed with a faint smile.

"Another little friend?" said a sarcastic voice.

Usagi tensed a little as Draco placed his hands upon her shoulders. Things had been fairly awkward between them after Luna's revelation. He took a seat next to her, gazing at Ami in a silent request of an introduction.

She blushed faintly, inclining her head politely. "Forgive me rudeness, I'm Ami Mizuno, in Ravenclaw." She paused for a moment. "I believe we have Transfigurations together."

Draco nodded briefly. "Yes, we do. Draco Malfoy," he introduced coolly. "It should be your pleasure to know me." Ami blinked several times, unable to determine if he was joking or not.

Usagi rolled her eyes. "It's hardly a pleasure to know him, I assure you," Usagi said, nudging him.

Draco looked at her with a smug expression. "No, but it can be," he quipped, the innuendo quite blatant.

Usagi blushed and shifted in her seat, fidgeting uncomfortably. Draco frowned at her slightly, having only meant it all in a joking manner. Things definitely had to be resolved. "I apologize, ladies," he said in a mockingly soft voice, "but Usagi and I need to converse in private." He rose from his seat and grasp her hand, pulling her up as well.

Minako looked at the two with a sly grin. "Gonna go about saving the world?" she asked with a wickedly amused expression. Draco smirked slightly, walking away with Usagi without another word.

Ami looked at her with confusion. "Did I miss something?" she asked quietly. "Usagi seemed fairly upset."

Minako's grin widened. "Well ya see, what happened was..."

x-x-x-

"What did you want to talk about?"

Silence.

"Where are we going?" He merely kept walking with her not far behind, his hand loosely encircled around her wrist. Usagi sighed and stopped talking, though she became increasingly apprehensive as she realized their destination.

He murmured the password to his room and strode in. Usagi couldn't help but jump slightly as the door shut soundly behind them.

"Sit down," Draco said softly.

Usagi slowly walked over to the large table, sitting in the wooden chair.

"We need to talk," he repeated firmly, pacing slightly. "Things have been fairly uncomfortable between us, and I fail to understand why."

Usagi laughed uneasily, rubbing the back of her neck in a nervous gesture. "I'm sorry," she said quietly. "I guess it's just the whole...situation."

Draco took a seat on the edge of the bed, resting his elbows against his knees, his hands clasped idly beneath his chin. "What Luna said, correct? The...bonding?"

Usagi blushed slightly, the faint smile on her lips turning somber. "Yes, but... Not just that. Everything, I guess." She glanced at him with saddened eyes. "I guess I'm just kinda worried about everything that's been going on. And then of course there's the possibility of dying," she mumbled.

"You're not going to die," Draco said firmly, as though it was not even an issue to be considered. "Regardless of if the bonding occurs or not, I won't let you die."

A frown hinted across her lips, before changing into her usual smile. She stood from her seat, giggling slightly. "It's okay, I guess. Everything will work out. I guess I'm just overreacting, I'm sorry. I tend to do that sometimes and—"

"Usagi."

She stopped rambling, turning to him once again. "Hmm?"

He sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose lightly before standing as well. "You don't need to put on a brave act in order to get through this. You will be fine, so it would be highly advisable to stop worrying so much."

Usagi nodded numbly, even as she felt his arms encircle around her. She leaned her back against him, resting her hands against his arms. "You're right," she murmured softly.

Or at least, she hoped he was.

x-x-x-

"Another failure," the woman hissed with a scowl.

The man chuckled slightly, shaking his head. "You weren't expecting any less, so do not act so surprised, Beryl."

The fiery red haired woman turned to him sharply, her blood red eyes glaring. She calmly reminded herself for the millionth time that this was a necessary alliance. "That is true," she said through gritted teeth, attempting a smile. "But even so, I do not like failure in any form it comes, Tom."

He smiled pleasantly, inclining his head. "Well, I should certainly hope not." He stretched his arms lazily, as though he didn't have a care in the world. "So, what shall be our next course of action?"

Beryl sighed in frustration, turning away from him to conceal her scowl. "I don't care about the petty senshi or guardians of hers. I only want to eliminate that blasted Moon Princess. So I suppose—"

"Tut, tut, tut."

Beryl barely contained her anger at being interrupted. "What?" she hissed at him.

He chuckled softly, tilting his head at her. "Well firstly, I think you should be a little kinder to me, hmm? And second, that was not the agreement, dear. We kill all of them, including Harry Potter, and Draco Malfoy." He smiled faintly as she groaned in displeasure, turning to him once again.

"Why is it so imperative to kill them as well?" she asked insistently.

Tom rose from his seat, surprised by his increasing strength. The longer they kept the senshi preoccupied, the longer his power increased. But he also knew the longer they dawdled, the more experienced the senshi would get with their fighting. It was a double-edged sword, the decision of how long to wait. Seeing her look at him impatiently, he placed his hands upon her slender waist.

Her crimson eyes widened, surprise the most evident emotion that he could place. "The same reason as you, darling," he cooed gently. Pulling her close, he said one simple word that made her sight with content.

"Revenge."

x-x-x-

"So, who is the last senshi that needs to be awakened?" asked Makoto.

Ami opened her mouth to respond, but stopped abruptly upon seeing Draco and Usagi reenter the library. They walked over to the table and took a seat, Usagi looking much happier. Minako's eyes widened incredulously. "Wow...that was fast," she murmured with awe.

Usagi hit her friend playfully across the table, rolling her eyes. "We didn't do anything," she said with a small smile.

"Suure ya didn't," Minako said slyly.

"We didn't!" Usagi insisted, beginning to blush at the implication.

Ami coughed politely, her head lowered. "We're not going to judge you any differently by your actions, Usagi-san," she said quietly.

Usagi groaned. "Not you too, Ami-chan," she whined. She looked at Draco with a pouting expression. "And I guess you're just gonna stay quiet, huh?"

"Yup."

Usagi sighed and shook her head. "Well anyway... let's get back to the serious issues at hand."

Ami nodded briefly. "Yes, I suppose that would be a good course of action." She cleared her throat slightly, speaking in a quiet but clear voice. "The last senshi that Luna needs to contact is Sailor Mars. I believe she intends to do this rather soon. It is a student in Slytherin, Rei Hino."

"I know her." Everyone turned to Draco who had just spoken.

"Know her how?" Usagi inquired.

"I have some classes with her, and I've spoken to her before."

"Oh," Usagi said, a little sullen. Something nagged at her, but she couldn't quite place what.

"Well, that'll make things slightly easier as far as becoming accepted," Ami said, smiling at them all. She knew things would probably be easy in that aspect regardless. All of the senshi were incredibly nice, and for perhaps the first time, she felt as though she had found a semblance of possible close friendships.

"So when will you all know?" Hermione asked.

Ami shrugged, shaking her head. "I'm not sure," she answered apologetically. "That is as much as I know, for now. I'm sure Luna will contact us all later for further details."

Usagi smiled, nodding her head in a silent decision. "I think we should try making friends with Rei before she's needed as a senshi. That way, it won't be as awkward for her," she said logically.

"Gi....n....zui...shou..."

Standing outside of the library door was a terribly deformed youma, large droplets of an acidic-looking liquid tumbling from its body.

"We may not get that chance," Ami said worriedly, standing quickly along with the others. The other few students in the library were quickly ushered to the back by the librarian, Madam Leoney. Once out of harm's way, the senshi transformed.

To their great surprise, the youma howled in pain before they could even strike. Large blazes of a magical fire enveloped its body, circles of the fire slamming into it. The acidic liquid that dripped from its body began to absorb the fiery attack, though smudged burn marks now coated its entire form.

Running into the library was none other than Sailor Mars, smirking slightly at the other senshi. They smiled at her, before, they all focused on the youma. This one seemed particularly weaker than the other two they had faced before, as it was already limping when it approached them. "Gin...zui...shou."

Sailor Moon did not waste time. "Onegai, Ginzui...gyah!" She quickly scrambled out of the way as the youma charged at her.

Draco's first reaction was to try and help, but one look at the bubbling liquid upon the creature's body cautioned him to do otherwise. He gritted his teeth and moved out of harm's way, scowling at the prospect of being unable to help.

The youma looked at him, a smile mangling its way onto the crooked, gnarled lips upon its burned face. "You...want...power..." it hissed slowly. Closing its yellow eyes, the youma seemed to go into a trance.

"Sailor Moon, now!"

"Moon Princess Halation!"

The youma opened its eyes before the attack hit, turning its gnarled smile to Sailor Moon. "Too...late..." The attack engulfed the youma, diminishing it instantly.

The senshi dropped their transformations, looking at each other with slight confusion. "What happened, at the end?" asked Makoto. "And was it me, or did that fight seem a little too easy?"

"Thanks to Sailor Mars," Minako said with a grin, turning to Rei. Rei smiled slightly, nodding.

"I don't know what happened," Usagi said, "but we killed it so... No use worrying about it any further I suppose."

Ami and Minako went to the back to make sure Madam Leoney and the other students were alright. Draco walked back over to Usagi, and she smiled at him.

A frown marred across his face, however. What the youma said was true. He did want to have some sort of power, something to be more useful in protecting Usagi. He despised the thought with a vicious passion that he was unable to protect her, and if anything, it was her who was more adequate at protecting him.

"I guess introductions would be good," Minako said, joining them with Ami. Rei nodded once again, bowing slightly.

"Rei Hino of the Slytherin house...Nice to meet you all." She turned to Draco, her smile broadening slightly. "Hiya, Malfoy."

"You're so popular," Usagi mumbled.

Draco rolled his eyes at her, but nodded once at Rei. "Hello."

"Minako Aino, nice to meet ya!"

"Makoto Kino, it's a pleasure."

"Usagi Tsukino, nice to have you with us!"

"Ami Mizuno, I just joined this little group earlier today as well," she said with a small smile.

Rei smiled politely at them all. "Well, it's nice to meet you all too." She paused slightly, unsure if she should propose such a thing. "How about we go to Hogsmeade tomorrow afternoon to get better acquainted?" she suggested. She was relieved to see smiles and nods as her response.

They all decided to retire to their rooms, as it had turned out to be a very long day. Further discussions could take place in the morning, but for now they were all fairly tired.

x-x-x-

"Yet another failure," Tom murmured. He glanced at Beryl, frowning slightly at her trance-like demeanor. "What is wrong?" he asked with slight annoyance.

Her eyes snapped open, looking at him with a faint smirk. "I believe we may have some valuable information," she replied in a silky voice.

"Is that so?" he inquired, raising an eyebrow.

"Oh yes," she purred, standing up to walk back to her personal quarters. "But it will take some time, perhaps." She turned back around to look at him. "I will need to use a highly trusted member. I think Psylek will do the trick. However, I think you will find it most interesting."

Tom laughed softly, beginning to follow her. "Perhaps I will."

x-x-x-

"So you'll really help me?" Minako all but squealed, her eyes shining with hope.

Ami chuckled softly. "Of course, it's really a fairly simple assignment. Just a matter of proper calculations and decisive ordering of... I've lost you already, haven't I?" she asked with a faint blush, seeing Minako's clueless expression.

"Yup!" the blonde said cheerily, "but if you're willing to help me I should do great. Right Usagi?" Minako looked at her friend, tilting her head when she did not get an answer. She saw that Usagi was gazing intently at something, so she followed her general direction and was filled with realization.

Usagi was staring at Draco and Rei, whom were currently engaged in a conversation of sorts. Rei was laughing softly, and Draco was smiling ever so slightly. Minako shifted her gaze back to Usagi, watching a frown mar across her face.

"Soomeone is jeeealous," Minako sing-songed in a low voice.

Usagi snapped out of her gazing, turning to her fellow blonde. "What do you mean?" she asked with a frown.

Minako raised an eyebrow. "You're jealous," she whispered dramatically.

Ami and Makoto looked at one another, deciding not to intrude in the conversation.

"I am not!" Usagi cried indignantly, picking up her fork to begin eating once again. She glanced cautiously at Draco and Rei once again. "I'm just curious what they're talking about," she mumbled, chewing her food idly.

"Usagi-chan, you're such a bad liar," Minako said with a sigh, taking a bite of her omelet.

Usagi forced herself to turn completely so she faced Minako and not the conversation that occurred several tables away. She talked to Minako idly about several topics she knew would keep her occupied, plastering a smile as she did so. She was not jealous.

Was she?

x-x-

"So you and Usagi-chan are really together?" Rei asked casually.

Draco glances at her with a bemused expression. "Yes, we are."

"Well... that's fairly interesting," she replied, toying with her food idly. "Why?"

He stopped chewing for a moment, looking at her once again. Swallowing the lump of food, he raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean, 'why'?" he asked in a bored tone.

Rei sighed, shaking her head. "Forget it." Seeing him frown, she sighed again. "I meant, why are you with her? I mean, I'm not saying there's anything wrong with it, I'm just...curious, I guess. I'm not too great with relationships, so I was curious as to why." She chuckled slightly. "Stupid I guess, huh?"

Draco smiled slightly. "Yes," he agreed. "Stupid." He paused, pondering the question regardless. "I suppose... I can't explain really. At first, it was a mission that made me go after her. But then it just progressed to wanting something further, I suppose. The concept of a relationship was foreign to me as well," he muttered, shaking his head.

A sad smiled touched upon Rei's lips, but she didn't say anything further. Perhaps this was a matter she shouldn't press.

x-x-x-

"Woohoo! Let's go to the Three Broomsticks!" Minako said with excitement. The very large group of the five senshi, Ron, Harry, Hermione, and Draco were all currently at the Shady Tavern, having conversed for the passed two and a half hours. The conversational barriers were broken fairly well between Rei and Ami, introductions were made between them and the others they had not met, and they all seemed to get along adequately.

"I dunno about that, Minako-chan," Rei said, "after all, didn't you say you have a tendency of getting a little lightheaded from the Butterbeer?" she teased.

Minako stuck out her tongue. "It doesn't take much for me to get air headed... wait..." Everyone laughed loudly, shaking their heads.

"No, I think we should just stay here a bit longer," Hermione suggested. "How many places are going to want a bunch of loud teenagers ruining the atmosphere?"

Ron looked at her incredulously. "Your worried about disrupting other people?"

"Well, naturally!" she said matter-of-factly.

Ron sighed, shaking his head. "I'll never understand you," he muttered.

"Of course you won't," Makoto said with a grin, "because Hermione is too smart for any of us to understand."

"Except maybe for Ami-chan," Usagi said with a giggle.

"Yep, both of them are fairly smart," Harry agreed with a nod.

"Can we talk about something else?" Ami and Hermione said in unison. The two looked at each other and blushed slightly, smiling.

"You're all ridiculous," Draco muttered. "Honestly, I don't know why I force myself to associate with you all."

"Oh, but we know why," Rei said with a sly smile, having heard the entire situation at hand.

Usagi blushed and hit Rei playfully. "That's soo not funny," she said, sticking out her tongue.

"I think it is, Odango Atama."

"Hey!" she cried angrily.

"What does that mean?" asked Draco, interested as to what made her angry.

"Dumpling Head, for those ridiculous dumplings on top of her head!" Rei said with a snicker.

Usagi huffed angrily. "There's nothing wrong with my hair style," she defended.

"Well, they are rather oddly shaped.. Perhaps like meatballs?" Draco suggested.

Usagi turned to him with a look of mock betrayal. "Don't team up with her!" she cried.

He raised an eyebrow. "But it's so fun to see you so aggravated. Besides, Rei brought up a fabulous point."

"Why thank you, Draco."

"Most certainly, Rei."

Usagi looked at the exchange of smiles and playful banter between the two, feeling that odd emotion stir within her once more. She decided not to say anything, though, merely plastering a smile. They were just kidding around after all. They were both in Slytherin, so it was only natural that they were spending more time together. Nothing was wrong with that...

Right?

x-x-x-

"Ohh, this is fairly interesting," murmured a clear, quiet voice.

"I was hoping you'd think so," Beryl said with a smirk. "Psylek, I want you to use this information wisely, and do what you see fit," she commanded.

A young man with short, navy blue hair stepped out of the shadows to offer a low bow to his mistress. "Of course, Queen Beryl-sama," he replied softly.

He opened his closed fist, and a small crystal appeared in his palm. His pale blue eyes glowed for a moment, and the crystal enlarged to the size of a beach ball. "We can watch the results together, Beryl-sama," he said sweetly, smiling at her.

A smirk twisted upon her own lips, nodding. "Yes," she cooed, "let's break them apart, emotion by emotion."

Usagi's face appeared in the screen, and Psylek smiled at it lovingly. Pursing his lips slightly, he blew out a thin stream of air. A silvery mist trailed from his lips into the crystal ball, weaving around Usagi's forehead.

He shifted his gaze to Beryl. "It will not take all too long," he said with a smirk.

x-x-x-

Usagi yawned tiredly as the ghostly professor droned on. Why did classes have to start up again? That was perhaps the worse part of an ended weekend. Indeed, History had to be the longest, most boring subject she ever endured. Today it seemed worse, however. She let her eyes drift shut, knowing the teacher wouldn't really notice. Quite soon, only soft snores were heard from the sleeping blonde..

"I love you, Draco," she whispered softly, kissing him once again.


"I love you too, Rei," he murmured back. Usagi pulled away sharply, stumbling as Draco walked right through her.. He walked over to the waiting Rei, a smile upon both of their faces.

"How did she take it?" she asked softly. "Ya know, telling Usagi that you couldn't do it anymore?"

"I didn't tell her yet," he replied with a saddened expression. "I'm sorry Rei, but apparently I have to stay with her until this whole mission is completed." He scowled slightly. "I hate this, I truly do."

Rei shook her head, smiling sympathetically. "It's okay, Draco. I understand. Just... Don't forget about the possibility of 'us', okay?"

Draco pulled her close. "I swear to you, Rei.. After this stupid mission is completed, I'll be with you and only you. Don't ever worry about such a thing," he murmured huskily, kissing her once more.

"No," Usagi whispered, tears clouding her vision. "NO!" she screamed.

"Miss Tsukino!"

Usagi popped up, startled. She looked at the students staring at her in the class, as well as the translucent professor. "Sorry," she mumbled, looking quite embarrassed.

The professor's expression softened. "It's alright. Indeed, this was a harsh time in history; your outward displeasure is understandable. The further events that occurred..." he droned on, the outburst forgotten.

Usagi couldn't forget, however. The images seemed too vivid, it all felt so real. She tried to calm herself down, much to no avail. She picked up her quill and forced herself to take notes for the first time in History, something to distract herself, even if only slightly.

x-x-x-

"That was a good lesson today class," Professor Moon said happily. They were nearly finished with the Lufu Potis spell, the majority of the class having went. She was especially happy that this class had the majority of the senshi in it; Ami was in Ravenclaw, so she did not share this class with them all.

"You may pack your things, and have an early dismissal for a job well done." She cast a look at the senshi and males associated with them, nodding secretly. They packed away their things slowly as the many students slowly filtered out of the room. After they had all left, Luna sighed softly and closed the door. "How did things go?" she asked expectantly.

"Things went well," Rei said with a smile. "These people aren't too bad. I think I can put up with them," she said with a hint of smugness.

"Or rather, we're being forced to put up with her," Draco quipped in a drawling tone. Rei stuck out her tongue at him, causing him to smirk faintly.

Usagi shifted in her chair uncomfortably, the images of her dream flashing vividly through her mind. Was it true? Maybe she had a premonition or something. She remained quiet, however, smiling warily as she listening to the idle chitchat of the others.

"Well, I'm pleased to hear that," Luna said happily. "I won't keep you then. I'm just glad things are going well. The youmas are probably going to be coming more steadily, so I'm relieved you're all working together nicely."

They said their goodbyes and began to leave, though Draco walked over to Usagi as she stood. "I want to talk to you," he said quietly.

Usagi felt her heart begin to weaken, like fine pieces of glass. "Okay," she whispered, closing her eyes. He grasped her hand, walking out of the room with her. They stood at the closed threshold outside of the door, talking in privacy. "You've been acting strange again," he said, gazing at her curiously.

Usagi refused to look at him, trying to keep the tremble of her voice to a minimum. "Oh?" was all she could manage. She paused and cleared her throat, forcing herself to continue. "Why are you with me?" she asked in a small voice.

Draco groaned, causing the glasslike state of her heart to crack further. "I don't see why I'm being asked this question again."

"Again?" she inquired softly.

"Yes... Rei asked me the same thing."

The crack deepened. "Oh? I see... Are you with me because of the mission?" she blurted before she could help herself, looking up at him.

His eyes widened incredulously, before he scowled. "What?" he hissed.

Usagi wasn't sure if he was angry she had asked because it was a lie...or because it was the truth. It's the truth, her mind seemed to whisper. "I... I'm sorry that you're forced to do this, I never wanted you to feel that way," she murmured quietly.

"Usagi, stop this... I shouldn't have to explain myself to you, but—"

"No," she interrupted. "You shouldn't have to explain anything. I can understand if you want to be with Rei. She's smarter, and prettier, and you don't have an obligation toward it. I'm just sorry there's the mission that stands in your way. It's okay, though...We can forget about the whole thing and—"

"Stop," he growled angrily, his eyes narrowed with disbelief. Why was she saying all of these things so suddenly? What had happened? "I don't know who put these thoughts in your head, or if it was your own stupid doubts, but I would strongly advice you to stop all of this. I'm with you because—"

"Because of the mission, I know," she interrupted. "I don't want to hear you say it, please..." She could almost hear her heart begin to shatter. She sighed softly, letting a tranquil feeling of peace come over her. She knew what she had to do. "I hope you can be happy now. I don't want you to be tied down because you have to. We all have to be happy and I want you to be happy with her so—"

He silenced her quickly by pressing a harsh kiss to her lips. She seemed dead set to not let him talk, so perhaps he'd have to communicate with her in another way. She began pulling away from him, but he held her firmly against him, kissing her with a passion that he hoped portrayed the words he was not all that adept at saying.

She sighed within his arms, responding to the kiss out of habit and want, a deep, desiring need to always be close to him. She opened her eyes slowly, her gaze locking with his. She saw the smoldered passion in his eyes, the deep churning of emotions meant only for her. She saw these things, and she knew. Deep down, she knew she had been very foolish. How could she let herself become so clouded by doubt and jealousy?

He pulled away, as if in slow motion, resting his forehead against hers. "I'm not with you because of the mission," he said in a low voice, "and I will say this only once for the sake of confirmation. I'm with you because I damn well feel like it, and no other reason than that."

Usagi laughed hesitantly, amazed that he could make the snidest comments sound like endearing vows of love. Perhaps they didn't have a picturesque romance, but for now, it was enough.

x-x-x-x-x-

Aww... well that ended a lot differently than I had intended o.o I was gonna have some angst and drama in there, but hey, it works. I managed to squeeze two new characters (Rei & Ami), two fight scenes, and a bit o' fluff all in one chapter! You guys should be so proud of me =D Lol.

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As always, thanks a trillion for the reviews!

To: Phan Gurl, Hyru, Jewel, Libitina De Averna, draco's slave, Ro-koi, ABC Gurl, Quiney, assraelrui....Thanks so much for the reviews!!

SesshoumarusBunny-- Thanks for the review, 'neesan! I got your letter yesterday, I'll be sending mine this weekend I promise! I just gotta get a role of film developed so I can enclose a picture ::sweatdrop:: I love the pics you drew, they're great! ::hugs::

Serenity Silvermoon--LOL, I never looked at it like that, but I should so throw that in there xD

Dark Universe--I tried to make this battle scene a little better, a good friend helped me out with suggestions ;D I think it turned out a lil better at least. I can't wait to write the final battle scene =D Thanks for the review!

MFlower49--Thank you =) Perhaps I'll do that... I think I'm gonna have a lemony chapter separate for this fic, depending on how things work out as the plot progresses ::grin::

AdorableAngel--Yeah, I feel like Draco's starting to be more and more OOC and that I'm falling into the typical cliche of him ::sniffle:: I'm gonna change that next chapter, though...hopefully anyway ::grins evilly::

amazing-jax--LOL, that would be interesting... it could be their distraction tactics! rofl =)

Bambi Star--Lol, I s'pose so =D They probably will, but I dunno yet.. we'll just have to see ::grin::

simpLy maGic-eLite fenG--Yay! I'm glad you like Lucius in the story =D He's so cool... I didn't have him in this chapter, I just realized that =O or snape! =O!! Wow... I'm gonna have to make up for that seriously next chapter lol

liza--Lol, don't we all wish that ::sweatdrop:: Hmm I'm really not sure how it's going to end yet... but I'm already planning a sequel to the story, LOL. Hope ya liked this chapter, and thanks for the review!

Serenity Voldemort Riddle--lmao, yup! Isn't that sad, to think of such a scientific excuse for them to get it on? LOL. And don't worry about evil Draco... i think he'll be shining next chapter ::evil grin:: Lmao, I want a Malfoy too! soo sexy =)

Kitoky--Hehehe =) Don't worry about that, it should be coming out fairly soon. I've been so busy in real life (actually i haven't been...more like lazy :sweatdrop:) Oh well... soon I hope, sooon that nice fic will come out ::grin::

OtAkU--Yeah, I agree with you. I really lack in the action-area of writing, but I tried hard to improve it this chapter... I think I succeeded, even if only partially ::sweatdrop:: Thanks for the review, and for the criticism =D

TStarr--Yay! I'm glad you love it =D And as for him, he'll probably be making an appearence fairly soon... ;D

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As always, incentive ::giggle::

NEXT TIME ON...Desiring Need!

Another youma attack, another battle that Draco cannot help in... His frustrating mounts with his lack of use, and his lack of being able to help Usagi out. The manipulative psychic youma, Psylek finds out of his deep troubles and uses it to his advantage. A deal is struck between Draco and the darker forces... What is this deal? What is going on? Are things beginning to fall apart just as they were salvaged...? Find out in next time's episode... "Power!"