BOOK TWO: "Falling Towards Apotheosis"
The Fragility of Time BOOK TWO: "Falling Towards Apotheosis"
Chapter 32: "The Needs of the Moon"
Author: etj4Eagle
Email:
Lasted Edited: 11/7/04
Disclaimer: A reminder I own none of the characters of this story, all rights are owned by others. However, the unique circumstances of the story are mine. If you distribute the story, do only so freely and inform me of where you post it.
Hearing the door to the house open, Mercury looked up from her book and saw that it was Usagi and her family returned from their trip. Glancing back at her textbook she memorized the current page number before closing the book and placing it down on the end table. Standing up, she proceeded to summon her computer and visor while walking over to Usagi. By the time she reached her best friend, she was already running a detailed scan of the other girls vitals. Consequently one would have thought she would have noticed the warning signs of the pending brain activity crash in Usagi. However, she didnt and was instead only alerted to Usagis fainting by the sudden high pitch trill her computer emitted, barely giving her enough time to catch Usagi.
Though catch was probably too generous a word for what Mercury was able to do, as she was not able to arrest Usagis downward momentum, only gently guide the two of them down to the ground. With Usagi laid down beside where she now knelt on the floor; an apologetic Mercury looked up at her friends mother, hoping that the other woman did not blame her for what just happened. But she didnt have long to worry, as Usagi began to stir almost immediately having only momentarily blacked out.
Ooh, that was not fun. The silver haired girl complained from where she. Looking up at her savoir, he brow crumpled as she tried to remember what was going on. The last thing she could remember was arriving home, but Ami was in her Mercury form?
Seeing the obvious confusion on her friends face, Mercury decided to help her out. Im only in this form because Minako-chan decided to come along and help.
Mina-chan is here? Usagi replied enthusiastically. And then with some confusion continued, But that doesnt explain why you are in your Senshi form.
Ikuko, standing at her daughters feet, on the other hand did understand how Minako was the simple and very complete explanation as to why Sailor Mercury was here instead of Mizuno Ami. And she was very glad that Ami was here as Sailor Mercury and that she would not be having to live through first hand some of those horror stories ChibiUsa had recounted to her. And for this reason she said a silent prayer of thanks to Kami-sama.
Releasing a sigh, Ami raised her right hand and pointed towards a frozen statue of Minako, I am in my Mercury form because I had to do that.
You froze Mina-chan? asked an incredulous Usagi, as she scrambled to her feet and dashed to check on her friend.
Hai, I did. If I hadnt this house would be a disaster area. As it is, it took me the better part of three hours to put things back together and I had only finished a few minutes before you arrived. Ami explained as she reverted back to her civilian form. With her Senshi form released, her control over her spells was also released and the ice trapping Minako vanished.
Released of her icy prison, the warrior of love collapsed to the ground with uncontrollable shivers while also uttering, what are you doing? the sentence that she had been speaking prior to her being flash frozen. However the shivers were short lived now that she was free of the frigid cold of Mercurys spell. And on top of that, she quickly found herself wrapped up tightly in Usagis arms.
She lay in Usagis arms for a few minutes, enjoying the warmth of the other girls embrace. While she couldnt see anything other than Usagis blouse and had not had time to focus on anything other than the floor before she was wrapped up in this embrace, she realized from the commotion about that the Tsukinos were back and knew instantly from the love that was radiating from the one holding her that it was Usagi who was holding her.
When she finally decided to break free of Usagis embrace she pulled back slightly so that she could look the other girl in the face. As she did, she remembered that Usagi was the sick one and the prior incident with Ami was completely forgotten, as she once again became Nurse Venus. Usagi youre back. Dont worry about anything, Nurse Venus is here to take care of you. Minako declared as she suddenly pulled out of Usagis embrace and adjusted her position so that she was now holding the other girl instead.
It was at this point that, Usagi first took notice of the nurse outfit that Minako was wearing. Unsure of why she was suddenly feeling trepidation to this declaration, Usagi mumbled an uncertain assent.
Come on lets get some soup into you. My grandmothers secret recipe is bound to have you feeling better in no time. Minako announced with enthusiasm. Then glancing briefly at Ami, added with a less pleasant tone, I would already have had a bowl ready for you, but someone decided to pour it down the drain.
Guilt crossing Amis face, she defended herself by saying, I am sure that your grandmother had a great recipe, but I dont think it called for two chili peppers, four cloves of garlic, raw eggs in addition to whatever else you put in it. If she had drunk that, she would have spent the next two days in the bathroom thoroughly cleaning out her digestive system.
Bah, you just dont have faith. Minako replied, not at all fazed by what Ami had said.
When I poured it down the drain, it violently reacted with what was in trap. Amis attempts to defend her actions were silenced as Ikuko come up beside her and placed a soft hand on her shoulder. Looking up at the older woman, she allowed herself to be led back to the couch.
Sitting down beside Ami, Ikuko said, Dont worry, I know that you had Usagis and our best interests at heart with what you did. And I am sure you did not take the action of freezing Minako without trying every other option first. ChibiUsa told me about Minako and her attempts to help the sick this weekend. Hearing that Ikuko knew full well what Minako was capable of the tension in the blue haired girls body faded, no longer worried about having to defend her actions. Now you just sit here and relax, Ill go watch Minako. Here you can continue reading your book. Ikuko trailed off at the end as she saw exactly what book Ami was reading. Well if anybody should be reading a Steven Hawkings book, it should be her.
Getting up from the couch, Ikuko headed over to the kitchen. Walking in she saw ChibiUsa barely constraining her amusement while Minako attempted to make something and Usagi looked on dubiously.
Now we just need to puree it for five minutes in the blender and then nuke it for thirty seconds and the patented Aino family instant energy drink will be ready. Minako declared as she poured the contents of a mixing bowl into the blender. Putting the bowl in the sink she placed the lid on the blender and pushed the on button.
In the future when Ikuko thought back to this incident she never was able to figure out what happened next. The mixture, whatever it was (and from some of the makings of it scattered on the kitchen counter she never dared to hazard a guess as to what Minako was putting in that drink) did not appear to be anything that should have given the blender any trouble. There was no logical reason why the blender should have just exploded as it did, bit it did. The motor hadnt even started when the explosion occurred. All she knew was that from one moment to the next tranquility became chaos. She just counted herself lucky for listening to the sudden gut need to bring her arms up over her head and to turn her body away from the table.
Lowering her arms and turning back to look at the devastation, Ikuko discovered that she was wearing some of what she now realized to be a quite awful smelling broth. The walls of the kitchen were covered in many areas by that broth as well and she could see fragments of the blender in some of the cabinets. That ignited her motherly instinct, suddenly fearing for injury of the three girls.
Rushing forward she found Usagi lying on the ground on her back with her crystal lying on her chest. Even before she knelt down to look at her daughter, Usagi was attempting to sit up. Ooh what youma hit me that time? she said as for the second time that day she found herself waking up after being knocked out. Releasing a sigh, Ikuko turned to locate the other two girls, though a part of her mind was telling her that something was up, especially since Usagi was lying a decent distance from where she had been standing only moments before.
Looking for Minako and ChibiUsa, Ikuko noticed that the kitchen table was now upturned and on the other side of the room. Not even trying to figure that one out she instead just located Minako and ChibiUsa. Minako was on the ground not that far away, though she was leaning on the dishwasher door with a clearly perplexed expression on her face. ChibiUsa for her part was still sitting on a chair by the door to the rest of the house, but had a very clear I am not amused expression on her face and was completely drenched in Minakos concoction.
As it looks like the kitchen is going to be out of commission for a while, I suggest that the two of you all head up stairs and wash off. Usagi, could you find some clothes that Minako can borrow. Make sure to bring down the clothes that you are currently wearing so that I can throw them into the wash.
Hai. The three girls agreed as they began to move. Upon standing up, Usagi looked around and not understanding what had just happened asked, What happened?
Minako-chan blew up the blender. ChibiUsa stated with a hint of amusement in her voice as she headed out of the kitchen.
But that doesnt explain why Usagi has the Ginzuishou out. Minako added, stopping her exit.
Actually it does. The crystal must have reacted to Usagis sudden feeling of danger the only way it could in the split second it had. A voice explained from the doorway. Looking that way, the four occupants saw a very amused Ami standing there. Then continuing, Ami said, The crystal released a pulse of energy, knocking everything away from it. As a result, Usagi was spared from the blender debris. However, being caught off balance she was knocked over by the force of the blast. Then suddenly producing a small camera she snapped a picture of Minako and then one of ChibiUsa before returning to the couch.
Minako was about to give chase to Ami to get the camera back, however she caught the eyes of Ikuko before even one foot had left the ground. The reproving look she was given ended those thoughts and instead she headed upstairs with ChibiUsa to get changed. Usagi for her part stayed in the kitchen with her mother.
Usagi was looking around the kitchen and taking in the full scope of the disaster when her mother said, Dont worry, Ill get it myself. After ChibiUsa and Minako finish getting washed up, I want you to take a long soak in the furo. You may be feeling better, but you dont want to push yourself too much and this will help relax your muscles after the long car ride.
Thirty minutes later found Usagi enjoying the warmth of the hot water. Instantly upon getting in the furo, she had felt the tension in her wing muscles fade away. So content she was, that she did not notice the knocking on the rooms door at first. It was only when the tepid knocking repeated itself that she realized that someone was trying to get her attention.
Yes? she responded.
A timid voice then proceeded to ask, Usagi-chan may I come in, I would like to run some scans.
Usagi could clearly tell by the tone of Amis voice that something was bothering the other girl quite a bit. Not even considering the loss of privacy she replied, Hai, you can.
Arigatoo, Usagi-chan. Ami said as she entered the room and walked over to where Usagi was soaking. She avoided looking at Usagi as she walked over and even still after she had sat down on the floor and began to run her scans.
The two of them remained in silence for a couple of minutes with Usagi continuing to relax in the tub while Ami scanned her. However, upon glancing over at her friend, she realized that Ami wasnt paying any attention at all to the computer and instead appeared to be lost in thought. She also instinctively knew that Ami wasnt lost in her analysis of the situation and her efforts to find the solution. No she knew that Ami was lost in thoughts of worries.
Ami-chan, what is wrong? Usagi asked with a comforting voice.
Mom arrived a little while ago and she and your mom have been talking about what happened at your aunts place. My brief scan from when you first arrived did not turn up any signs of infection or disease. Of course I could easily have missed something. But I am just worried that this is related to what is happening when you try to use the Moon Tier. Ami explained. Initially as she began to talk, she continued to stare out into the same spot in space nor did she adjust her position at all. But then at the end she turned to look at Usagi with barely held back tears.
Seeing those tears, Usagi got up so that she was kneeling at the side of the tub and opened her arms. Ami did not need any prodding and was a moment later nestled inside of Usagis arms against the girls chest. Holding Ami tight, Usagi also wrapped her wings around her friend.
Letting Usagi rock her back and forth, Ami continued her explanation, though this time it was partially broken up with sobs and hiccups. I Im just worried that this means that something is going to happen to you. That before long youll not be able to sustain yourself anymore and youll die.
Usagis eyes went wide as she heard Ami explain her fears. She had never considered the possibility that this was anything more than just some minor nuisance. Though even with hearing Ami voice those fears, she did not consider that possibility any more likely.
If something were to happen to you, I just dont know what Id do. You mean so much to me. Youre the one who was able to see through my intelligence to see the real me inside, the one who brought that me out of hiding. But I dont think I can continue to remain this way without you here with me. Also you are the glue that holds all of us together, we wouldnt be the same without you.
Usagi listened to Amis words never having thought about how she was the glue that had brought the very divergent group of girls together, making them friends of one and another. She wanted to believe that they would continue to be there for each other even if something happened to her. But for some reason she knew that Ami was right, the group would last for a little while, but eventually they would start to drift apart. And then there was Naru, Naru didnt even have the others should something happened. Thinking about her best friend for a moment, Usagi realized that she had been neglecting her friend. Before there was the excuse of them being Sailor Senshi, but now that Naru knew everything there was no reason why she couldnt be part of the group activities.
But those thoughts were not for now; right now she had to find a way to reassure her very distraught friend. Resting her head against Amis, she made soothing sounds as if she was quieting a baby now that Ami had finished talking. As she slowly felt Amis grip loosen from a death grip to something more relaxed she finally spoke, Ami dont worry Ill always be here for you.
Unwrapping her wings and arms from Ami, she pushed the other girl back and bit. A glance at Amis face showed that her friend was not buying it, but Usagi continued. Yes its true, no matter what happens, I will always be with you. I will be here in your heart guiding you even if I am no longer left. She said this as she placed a hand on Amis chest making the point. My mother, Queen Serenity is still here to guide me as a ghost and I will guide you one way or the other. But dont think that I am going to be dieing anytime soon. Mamo-chan still needs to marry me and theres still more of Reis Manga that I havent read, oh and there is sale at the mall in three weeks, plus the new Sailor V video game
By the time that Usagi got to the Sailor V video game as a reason why she couldnt die anytime soon, Ami found herself unable to control her giggles. There feeling better now? Usagi asked the giggling girl.
Hai, Arigatoo Usagi. Ami replied.
No problem, however we should think about finding you a change of clothes as well.
Why? Ami asked before she looked down at her own clothing and realizing that they were dripping wet, that being the one downside of getting hugged by someone who was in the tub. Oh. She said as she realized the answer. Usagi smiled as she got out of the tub and wrapped herself up in a towel and then proceeded to lead Ami to her room so that the two of them could put on some dry clothing.
By the time that Ami and Usagi returned to the living room, Ikuko and Rikou had moved beyond talking about Usagis condition and unto other topics. Hearing the steps of the two girls as they entered the room, Rikou looked up. Seeing her daughter clothed in some of Usagis clothing she raised an eyebrow, but did not say anything more, given that Minako was also borrowing some clothing while her clothes were washed. Though Rikou had thought Ikuko had said that Ami was not in the kitchen during Minakos failed attempt to make a power drink. And while she felt guilty for thinking it, she was silently glad that the blender had exploded, as she was sure she would be in the hospital right now having Usagis stomach pumped if Usagi had actually drunk that concoction.
Rikou waited for Usagi to sit down first and to then take one of the cookies, which she had brought over, off the table to munch on before she got up. Usagi-chan I would like to give you a quick examination.
Pulling back her hand, which had been reaching for one of the two untouched teacups, Usagi looked up at Mizuno-san and said, Ok, go ahead.
Dont worry this wont take too long and then you can have your tea. Rikou said. Then turning back to the table for a moment she picked up her medicine bag and placed it on the table. Opening it out she took out her stethoscope and pressure cuff. She started by first taking Usagis blood pressure and measuring her heart rate, she skipped taking the girls temperature given that she had just come from a hot bath. Following that she moved on to check Usagis eyes, ears and throat.
Finishing up some minutes later, she placed the disposable parts of her instruments into a medical waste bag and then put everything back into her bag. I am all finished Usagi, you can have some tea and some more cookies now. she said with a smile, before walking back over to where she had been sitting before. Taking a seat she said, Well to my cursorily examination Usagi appears to be perfectly fine. It is entirely possible that whatever she has may be in remission. Even still there should still be some evidence of it in her blood and there are a couple of blood tests that I would like to run, though youll need to bring her by the hospital tomorrow so that I can draw her blood and run those tests. That request did not earn a happy face from Usagi who very much did not like needles.
As it is right now, I have no idea what was wrong with her and I dont understand how she can appear to be so healthy now after your description of how she was the past few days. I guess it is possible that she had caught a nasty flue bug but that her unique physiology allowed her to fight it off faster. That is my best guess right now, but I cant really be sure. All I can say is to continue watching her for the next few days and if anything appears to be off give me a call. Then remembering that her daughter had that computer of hers, she looked over at Ami and asked, Ami does your computer detect anything that might be wrong with Usagi?
Looking up from her computer, Ami replied, Iie, all my scans show Usagi to be perfectly healthy and fully regained of her energy. While she had some concerns of which she had just recently partially voiced to Usagi, she gave no hint of those to her or Usagis mom. She did not have anything concrete to base them on and did not want to needlessly worry Usagis parents; she also felt that she really should not have bothered Usagi with those fears either.
Later that night found Artemis and Luna outside of the Amis bedrooms window. Hearing their light scratching of the window, Ami got up from her desk where she was still staring at her computer scans and walked over to the window. Opening the window, she let the two cats in.
Luna-chan, Artemis-chan, what are the two of you doing here? she asked.
Luna here thinks that something is bothering you and therefore concluded that that means that something is wrong with Usagi. I tried to tell her that you would have told us if something was wrong owe! Artemis yelped the last bit as Luna gave him a swipe with her claws.
Luna did not give any explanation for her swipe, but anyone looking at her face could tell that she was not at all pleased with Artemiss explanation and how he portrayed her concern. Nothing was said for the next few minutes as Ami sat at her chair looking at the two cats that patiently sat on her floor.
Six minutes after she had let them in, Ami spoke, At first glance Usagi appears perfectly healthy. But that is the problem; she is too healthy. There should be some indication of her illness, especially given how low her energy was this morning and yesterday. The way ChibiUsa described Usagis moon mark indicates that something was directly effecting Usagis energy levels, however my scans this evening show that everything is perfectly fine, that she was fully recovered. But that should not be the case. Ugh! Ami exclaimed frustrated by her inability to solve the problem as she threw up her hands.
Ami-chan I am sure that you will figure out what you are missing. Luna said.
Hai, and remember that Usagi is okay right now so dont kill yourself trying to solve the problem. Artemis said
Hai, I know, but even still.
Already knowing what Ami was going to say this, Luna and Artemis had gotten up from where they had been sitting on the floor to climb into her lap where they began to purr. No further conversation followed. An hour later, the two cats bid their farewell to a now relaxed Ami-chan who proceeded to turn in.
Racing through the hallsThursday morning, Usagi turned the corner and entered her classroom a whole five minutes before the bell. Only slightly out of breath she found Naru and walked over to her best friend. Naru saw the silver-haired girl walking over her way and thanked Kami for sending her salvation from Uminos fascinating description of the life cycle of the humble earthworm. She couldnt remember what had started him down this track. They had started by discussing some of the latest gossip, but how that had migrated to earthworms she had no clue.
Umino-kun, sorry but I need to go speak with Usagi a bit before class starts. Girl stuff you know. she said as she extracted herself from Umino.
Hai, dont worry we can continue during lunch, their reproduction is quite fascinating.
Naru tried to avoid showing any emotion other than looking utterly forward to that discussion. Then turning to look at Usagi she gave her friend a large smile as she said, Usagi-chan youre on time this morning.
Dont act so surprised Naru, I have been getting better.
Hai, youre right, you were only late once in the past two weeks. Naru agreed.
So what was Umino telling you about? It did not appear to be the latest gossip.
Iie unfortunately gossip somehow migrated into earthworms. Naru said while making a gagging expression flowed by a chuckle that Usagi joined her in.
Well thats Umino for you. Say what are your plans for this weekend? Theres that new movie opening Friday night.
Hai that sounds great, though Friday doesnt work for me. My mom needs me to help her with the end of the monthly financials at her store. But I should be free Saturday, and that will keep me from having to help her clean out the storeroom. The last bit she said with a smile.
Ok, how about I meet you at that sushi place for lunch? Usagi suggested.
Iie. Naru replied while shaking her head. If I do that I will be there for a few hours while you sleep in some more. No I will come by your house at 11 to meet up with you.
But that means I have to get up earlier Usagi whined, but was cut short by the bell. And the two girls joined the rest of their classmates in taking their seats as Haruna-sensei entered the room.
That night the Sailors sat around the Tsukino household munching on cookies that Ikuko had prepared for them. Off to one side Ami sat punching away at her computer while Luna, Artemis and Setsuna looked on. The four talked softly amongst themselves, making sure that they all agreed with Amis analysis and conclusions. Luna had of course seen the results the previous day and had then called for this meeting. Even still she was closely looking over the data a second time trying to discover some error she had made; unfortunately she found none.
Ami-chan while I do know some of what is happening to the princess. The specifics of her condition are unknown to even me, as this power that she is coming into was not supposed to occur until later. Some of it even millennia in the future. Setsuna said. That and the final awakening marks the end of my guardianship and hence my knowledge of the future . Setsuna added to silently to herself. With that said, I have to agree with your analysis.
Setsunas mention of Usagi coming into this power millennia in the future caught Amis attention and she filed it away in the back her mind as another clue to puzzle over later. Looking at Luna and Artemis and getting nods from the two of them, Ami stood up and walked over to where the rest of the group was sitting. The others quickly noticed Amis arrival and lapsed into silence. Usagi and Rei who were stalking Shingo with murder in their eyes also moved away from the boy and found seats with the others.
Minna-san I think I have an idea of what caused Usagis illness last weekend. Ami said. Both the tests that I ran using my computer and that my mom ran on the blood sample from Usagi did not turn up any sign of disease. As far as we can tell, Usagi was never sick last weekend. And while it is possible that maybe her body or the Ginzuishou was able to fight off the illness and completely eradicate it, none of us think that is likely. This she said while gesturing at Luna, Artemis, and Setsuna.
For one thing there is the coincidental timing of her recovery with their return to Tokyo and that it resulted in a full recovery by the time they reached home is also significant. I have theorized for a while that there is something special about Tokyo that draws the demon attacks here. After all, if Beryl had taken her energy collecting missions to another continent we would have been unable to do anything. And she actually did start her operations in England, but yet moved here and decided to continue sending new generals here after we took out each one out.
And while some of what is motivating Rubeus may be a psychological war plan, given that he is fighting a front of a war taking place against us in the future and there is the search for those talismans. The mentioning of the talismans caused the Guardian Soldiers to look at Haruka and Michiru with annoyed glares (there were still some hard feelings over the delay in the retuning of Reis heart crystal and that she might have been sacrificed to retrieve one of these talismans that Uranus and Neptune were also searching for, a mission that they insisted on doing themselves). Still he should be attempting to carrying out his energy collection missions in other areas than Tokyo, even just an hour train ride a way would be sufficient.
No there is something special about Tokyo that is drawing all our foes here. And while Setsuna wont tell me what it is, she has confirmed for me that there is something special about Tokyo, something that we will discover in the not too distant future. At this point Ami paused to take a breath and to run her calculations through her head one more time. Opening her eyes to regard the group again, she saw the warm smile on Usagis face and all of her doubts faded away. I believe that Usagi is also affected by this power, for lack of a better word, that exists in Tokyo. Somehow this is a source of her power and strength. When she left Tokyo, she left the power nexus and as a result was weakened. It was these symptoms that created the illusion of a nasty flue bug.
But Ami-chan, in the future momma goes to countries. Last year we went to Moscow. ChibiUsa replied defensively.
That is true small lady. However, what is happening to the princess is causing problems not so much because it is happening but because it is happening sooner than it was originally supposed to. Some of what is happening now has not even happened yet in the future that you come from. She is coming into her own before her body is ready to handle that responsibility. What the end results of this strain will be I do not know. I can only hope to weave a path back to the future that once was, but never knowing if I have enough thread left to make it back. Setsuna answered.
This pronouncement caused a somber mood to fall over the group. The moment of silence created by Setsunas answer extended from just a moment and into a minute and then five minutes before Makoto finally broke the silence. So how does this change things? Usagi is back to her old self, the only difference being that she might be constrained to remaining in Tokyo for the near future. Makoto said in a forced upbeat voice.
Hai that is right. Luna agreed, Amis findings are also still preliminary at this moment, as she has not been able to get a scan of Usagis body when she is away from Tokyo. Only after then will we know if this is the case and what this means.
So then lets throw Usagi in the car and go for a drive. Haruka suggested.
Actually a drive would not be best. I really need to see what happens when she is suddenly removed from Tokyo, thereby eliminating any complicating factors. We can do this using a Sailor Teleport. After talking with Setsuna and consulting with Luna and Artemis and I have found a way to do the teleport so that we can take Usagi as a passenger and additionally be able to teleport back immediately should the need arise.
What will happen is that for the first teleport: myself, Minako, Makoto, Rei, ChibiUsa and Setsuna will do the teleport taking Usagi, Haruka and Michiru as passengers. Then after we arrive at our destination, Haruka, Michiru and ChibiUsa will teleport back here with Usagi as their passenger. I know Mamoru-san can aid us by acting as a catalyst to Usagi and ChibiUsa, so he will stand near the circles helping ChibiUsa but not traveling with us.
Can this really work? a disbelieving Haruka asked.
Yes it can, you can look over the math yourself. Ami replied as she pulled out a clipboard that contained a dozen sheets of paper utterly crammed with various equations (not all of which were written in any language currently spoken on the Earth).
Oh, I think Ill take your word for it. Haruka said.
Oh and Usagi, you will need to lend ChibiUsa the Ginzuishou for these teleports.
Nani-ka! exclaimed the Sailors minus Setsuna.
Small lady will need to use the Ginzuishou to focus and amplify the teleportation magic for this to work. Dont worry; the level of control and use of the Ginzuishou is easily within ChibiUsas ability, even if she hasnt had any lessons in the future yet in using the crystal. Also there is no danger to her life from over using the power of the crystal. What she is attempting to do could be done with just a simple spell focusing crystal, unfortunately we dont have any so we will have to use the Ginzuishou instead even though it is overkill. This is also the reason why Small Lady is participating in both teleports.
And before we do this for real we are going to do a dry run over at the shrine, tonight. Then if everything works fine, tomorrow afternoon after school with you all rested, you will do this for real. Luna added.
Well then I guess I should get some dinner ready for all you girls. Ikuko said as she got up from where she had been sitting beside her husband off to one side of the room.
Later that night found the girls on the shrine grounds talking amongst themselves while Ami was making some final adjustments to her computer program.
So where are we teleporting to? Makoto asked as Ami finally returned to the group.
School was her one word reply.
That of course elicited a sharp chorus of school!? in response.
But school is over for the day and tomorrow morning is still a long way off. I dont want to go there. Why dont we go to the video arcade Usagi whined, a whine that was agreed to by a vigorous nodding Venus.
For her part, Jupiter muttered, Why am I not surprised under her breath.
Well we just want to go a short distance. And to make this easier we should go to someplace that we know, and appearing at the school should draw the least amount of attention since it should be deserted now. Ami explained. And while some of the girls did see her logic, Usagi and Minako were still not happy with Amis explanation.
As Usagi so eloquently pointed out you have school tomorrow so lets get this test underway so that you can all head home and get some sleep. Luna stated from where she, Artemis, Diana, and Urawa were sitting off to one side.
With those instructions the girls began to form up into their teleportation circles. Ami directed Usagi to stand in the center with Haruka and Michiru flanking her; she then had ChibiUsa stand slightly in front of those three. Finally she had the rest of them form a circle around those four, holding hands and facing inward.
Okay Usagi hand ChibiUsa the Ginzuishou. Ami instructed.
Hai. Usagi replied as she removed the broach from her chest and handed it over to ChibiUsa.
What am I supposed to do? an anxious ChibiUsa asked, her previous experiences with the mystical crystal of the Moon empire not being ones to inspire much confidence in her abilities. The strongest memory she of course had was of her first attempt to use it when it vanished. And then there was the hazy memory of the final battle with the Wiseman. She only really remembered discovering that the Ginzuishou had been inside of her all along when her tears had brought it out. That part of the memory was firm, but from then on what happened was more of a dream than a memory. She could remember feeling as if both Usagi and her mothers future self were there with her guiding her with what she had to do.
The eyes of everybody, except Setsuna turned to Usagi, who upon seeing their looks said. Dont look at me, I have no idea how it works. It didnt come with any instruction manual.
Usagi no baka. was Reis response.
Its okay Usagi-hime. Pluto said. You were only just beginning your lessons into using the Ginzuishou at the time of the fall. However, even if you were fully trained in the use of the crystal that would not be of any help to you now. Your use of the crystal is on an instinctive level; very different from the way the previous Moon queens have used the crystal. Knowing how they used the crystal would only confuse you and while you would be able to do some things that you cant now, you would not be able to bring out as much of its power as you can.
Okay. A now confused Usagi replied.
Small Lady, just open your mind to the crystal and the Sailor Teleport. Dont push; just guide the flow of energy. If you push, the crystal will begin drawing on your own energy, but if you just guide the flow, it will work as an amplifier and not pose any danger to you.
Uh huh. ChibiMoon replied, know holding the crystal slightly away from her body as if she was afraid that it would suddenly bite her.
Well then if everyone is ready lets get this seesaw on the road. Venus said. The others didnt even attempt to parse her mangled expression.
With that Mars, Jupiter, Mercury, Venus and Pluto began the teleport. With only four soldiers teleporting three passengers the teleportation spell built very slowly, appearing to be unstable and near collapse at many points. But ever so slowly the summoned energies began to coalesce into a sphere of energy around the group, slightly lifting them off the ground as it beet into the ground. When the four appeared to have given all they could, ChibiMoon held aloft the Ginzuishou and opened herself to its energies. From just outside the glowing sphere of energy Tuxedo-Kamen held aloft a single red rose as he focused in on his love for his future daughter, lending her his strength and guidance.
Feeling the reassuring cool damp energy wrapping around her from Tuxedo-Kamen, ChibiMoon felt the Ginzuishou pulse with energy. As she felt their warmth, the physical world around her faded away and was replaced by one in which only the magical energies summoned by her friends existed. With her mind she was able to reach out and touch the energy of their planets and direct them to pass through the crystal during their orbits. To the cats watching from a safe distance the flickering blue, red, green and violet energies suddenly began to grow in strength and stability and as they did so the group became enveloped in a silver glow. Then with a massive explosion of energy, a silver pillar arced up into the sky, blasting the earth beneath it every which direction.
The downwash from the teleport washed over the assembled onlookers. The cats where thrown helter-skelter with Artemis landing in a bush. Tuxedo-Kamen was knocked off his feet and blown backwards, however with a twist of his body he managed to land on one knee. Ryo was the only one who managed to remain on his feet, though his front side was nicely covered with a layer of dirt.
Climbing out of a bush that he had been blown into, Artemis said, Next time remind me to stand much farther away when they try that.
Luna that didnt happen last time did it? Ryo asked.
Iie, it didnt. I dont think it happened back during the Silver Millennium either. I think this teleportation downwash is caused by the girls only having barely enough energy to make the teleport. You see when you cast a spell its much harder to control the side effects if you barely have enough energy.
But didnt this use up a fair bit of their energy? Ryo asked while gesturing towards what many would think had been the result of a mini-tornado.
Yes it did, and as a result it is less taxing to cast a spell when one is fully rested then when one is exhausted. Luna replied
And to that Artemis added, It much like it how you are more prone to make errors when you are tired or exhausted.
I think I understand. Ryo replied, Though it would have been nice if my gift had been kind enough to give me a warning to this side effect. That comment gathered agreeing nods from the others.
Ryo had only just turned to look back at the spot where the girls had left when he felt his skin stand up on end. The sensation was not one that his body was so much feeling, but the magic that he had been granted the ability to use first by Metalia and then by Usagi was feeling. He instantly knew that the arrival of the others was only moments away and he was proved correct when just seconds later the inner circle of 4 Sailor Soldiers appeared.
When the light flash surrounding the girls vanished, ChibiUsas eyes went vacant as her arms dropped and the Ginzuishou fell to the ground. Bursting out from between Haruka and Michiru, Usagi caught ChibiUsa, who was know dressed in a gown instead of her Sailor Fuku, before she had fallen more than a dozen centimeters. Dropping to her knees she laid ChibiUsa down while holding her daughters head in her lap.
Dont worry, shes just tuckered out from those two teleports. I could use a nice long nap myself. Haruka said as she came up beside Usagi.
Here place her head down on the ground and raise her legs. Michiru added as she adjusted ChibiUsas position. Then seeing the confused look in Usagis eyes and the girls strong reluctance to let ChibiUsa out of her lap, Michiru added, This is how you treat fainting. She needs more blood in her head, keeping her in your lap wont help.
Not able to help herself, Luna took a jibe at her charge, Usagi-chan, didnt you just have a unit on first aid a few weeks ago?
Looking quite guilty, Usagi looked at Luna and said, Hai, I did. But it was so boring. Anyways why would I have need for any of that? Its not like I want to be a doctor.
From where she was standing, Haruka looked down at Michiru and quietly said, She didnt just say what I thought she said. The resigned shrug that she got from her love, was all the confirmation she needed, and Haruka just sighed. She was not alone in sighing, as Luna had been left speechless by that comment.
Your highness, remember that we are soldiers. You may not be looking to make a career in medicine, but you have fought enough battles when one of us has been hurt. And while Ami has done a great job so far, what if she is the next one to get hurt?
Harukas explanation only took a few moments to sink in and the result was instantaneous with Usagis expression changing instantly to one of guilt and horror. Knowing, Usagis mood swings; Luna had an idea of the scenes that Usagi was contemplating right now. But before she could try to head off Usagis thoughts, they reached the boiling point and Usagi broke out into a loud wail over how she doesnt want to kill Ami-chan.
ChibiUsa for her part had regained consciousness soon after Michiru had stretched her out on the ground. After opening her eyes and looking around and seeing nothing interesting happening and realizing that she was quite tired she had decided to just lay there resting a bit. A part of her mind also wondered if she might be able to get Usagi to carry her home. Her mothers loud wail brought an abrupt end to her resting. Usagi no baka, some of us are trying to sleep here. She yelled up at Usagi while getting up slightly and turning to face the older girl.
Hearing ChibiUsas voice instantly diverted Usagis attention and she stopped in mid wail. Reaching out she pulled a surprised ChibiUsa into a hug, holding the other girl tight she said, Youre all right. I was so worried when you passed out.
ChibiUsa debated with herself on how she wanted to respond to Usagi. Part of her wanted to continue being difficult and to tease her mother some more. But another part of her wanted to give into the warmth that she was feeling in this hug. Finally the desire to feel the warmth won out. Hai Im ok. Im just tired. ChibiUsa said with a yawn
Then lets go home. Usagi said as she pulled ChibiUsa in closer and then stood up with the younger girl still in her arms.
Watching the two begin to walk down the steps, Haruka and Michiru followed behind, knowing there was no way Usagi could make it all of the way back to the Tsukino household carrying ChibiUsa. And so Haruka planned on offering Usagi a ride home, plus she wanted to make sure her princess was not stupid enough to try to carry ChibiUsa down the shrine steps.
The cats and Mamoru followed behind Haruka and Michiru leaving Ryo as the only one left. Smiling to himself, Ryo thought for a moment of what it would be like to have his own child. To the younger part of his soul it was something mysterious and far off in the future, for the ancient part of his soul it was a reminder of a happier time. Pushing aside the two different set of feelings his thoughts turned to Ami-chan. There both parts of his soul agreed and felt the same love for the blue haired girl, both hoping that he and Ami shared some fraction of the depth of love that Usagi and Mamoru shared.
Ryo was about ready to leave the shrine when something glittering caught his eye. Walking over to look at it, he realized that the Ginzuishou had been left forgotten on the ground. Reaching down to grab it, Ryo suddenly stopped himself when a powerful vision suddenly assaulted his mind. Coming to a few minutes later, Ryo found himself lying on the ground with a blinding headache, his form having also shifted back to its natural state. Wow, what happened? he thought. Trying to force his memory to recall the vision he drew a blank. Not satisfied he tried again and again, finally by looking at the crystal while forcing his mind to recall the visions was he able to recall a few fragments.
However those fragments were not much help. All he could remember was some memory of the city, but as it must look in the future with various points glowing. He wished he could remember it more clearly, but he could not remember where any of those points were or even how many there were. The second fragment he was able to remember was of just the crystal itself and the shearing pain of it exploding into a million fragments, each one sharp as a dagger. What was also strange about those visions was that they felt like they were visions of a vision. That was just too strange for him. Though he made a mental note to speak to Rei about them, maybe she would have an idea of what the fragments meant.
Now standing up, Ryo realized that he had had one more vision, and now having dealt with the other two he could remember this one very clearly. This one required no explanation, as it was a simple warning of what would happen should he touch the crystal with his own hands. Shifting back to his human form, Ryo took off his jacket and used it to pick up the crystal. Then wrapping the crystal he began the walk to the Tsukino household, knowing that the others had already left.
Some minutes later found Ryo arriving at the Tsukino household. And just as he was opening the gate to go up the front steps, he saw the Tsukino car pull into the driveway. Tsukino Kenji proceeded to get out of the car once it was parked.
Seeing the young lad, Kenji said, Ami-chan called Usagi up on her communicator a little while back and said that she and the others were too exhausted to walk back to their homes and asked if we could come give them a lift back. As Haruka-san was still here, the two of us headed over to give them a lift home. The last part explaining why he was back so soon from giving the others all lifts home.
Im not surprised that they are tired out from their teleport, Haruka and Michiru did not look that better off and they only had to take one passenger. Oh, Usagi left her crystal at the shrine. Ryo said as he brought his left arm forward and using his right hand opened the jacket wrapping the crystal.
To Kenji the unveiling of the crystal like that was very memorizing, even though Usagi had shown it to them before. There was just something about seeing it slowly unveiled all by itself and the darkness of the night accentuated its internal glow. Snapping himself out of the trance he had fallen into, Kenji asked, Why did you have it wrapped in your jacket, Its a bit cold to go around without a jacket on.
At first I was going to pick it up with my bare hands, however I got one of my future flashes. Unlike my normal flashes this one showed me a possible future, what would happen should I actually touch the crystal. For me it would be instant death. Even for a human like you the consequences would not be good. The crystal holds so much raw power that only the purest soul could wield it and not be corrupted. I dont think even the others could withstand the siren call of the power in the crystal for long with out succumbing. Not even Ami-chan. The last bit he added quietly in a side to himself.
Kenji did not know quite what to say to that. Luna, Usagi, and Setsuna had all told him and Ikuko that the crystal was a very powerful artifact and that its power was unrivaled across the galaxy, which was why so many coveted its power and why Usagi and her friends had to fight these wars. But to be able to corrupt anyone just because of the shear power that was contained in the crystal that was a level of understanding that he had not known. Though as he thought about it, something that had the power to pull life from death and to stop a war in its tracks would have to be a very powerful object. But why would the crystal kill Ryo instead of just corrupting him, wondered Kenji as his thoughts began to turn to the first part of Ryos statement. Wait didnt he mention something about it having bad consequences even for humans? What did he mean by even Humans like me? Ryo-kun, what did you mean by distinguishing yourself from humans?
Realizing his slip of the tongue, Ryo sighed. Though the girls all knew of course what he really was no one else did, not even his parents. He also knew that Kenji and Ikuko were not going to suddenly fear him when they learned his secret, even still he wished that he had not let this out. That is because I am not quite human and in a very different way than Usagi. I am also reborn from the time of the Moon Kingdom. However, during that war I was not on the side of the Sailor Senshi, I was one of the invaders, one of Beryls elite Shadow Warriors.
There were seven of us, elite warriors from another bane in the megaverse, entranced by the power that Queen Metalia had offered us. During the battle we killed the Guardian Soldiers, but when Queen Serenity unleashed her power she sent us into the future along with her daughter and guardians. She gave the seven of us a second opportunity at life, a chance to start anew. She merged each of our souls with a piece of the Ginzuishou, binding our past and essentially creating a new soul.
As such I was born human and lived as a human for 14 years. But then when the Dark Kingdom came to claim the Ginzuishou fragments, the ancient part of my soul was released. During my awakening the two parts of my soul found harmony and I regained access to what I was before. I am now a teenager who has memories that cover millennia and whose natural form is that of a creature not of this bane and one of nightmares. But my human side is dominant and I am not the one that I once was, I only have his memories, I am instead Ryo Urawa.
While Ryo had been giving his explanation, Kenji had come in close. Reaching an arm around Ryo, he embraced the young man. I know that was hard for you, especially to admit that you at one time once attacked my daughter. But I trust you and I know that you are no longer that creature. Come why dont we head in so that you can give Usagi back her crystal.
Ryo nodded his agreement to that and pushed back the sadness his story was threatening to bring up.
Anyways if you had any ounce of evil left in you, I know that you would not be here with that crystal. Instead you would be out there forcing the teachers to give extra tests and requiring 16-hour school days. Kenji said with a smile on his face, hoping to get a similar reaction from Ryo. And he was not disappointed, as Ryo could not hold his chuckles in for more than two attempts.
By the time Ryo arrived up at Usagis room he had managed to get his chuckles under control, however he did have a massive grin across his face, a grin that instantly caught Usagis attention. Ryo-kun! What are you doing here? Usagi asked, quite surprised to see Ryo. And what is so funny. She asked after realizing that her dad also sported an identical grin.
Ryo-kun and I were just discussing what he should do should he ever decide to take over the planet. I think he had finally decided on 4 extra hours of homework a night and 2 additional hours of school each day. Kenji replied with a very large smile.
Ahhh! Usagi screeched, Who in their right mind would ever want to increase the amount of homework and school? From where she sat on the bed flipping through a manga, ChibiUsa vigorously nodded her agreement. And while Luna would normally have scolded her charge for screeching as she had just, she did have to agree that Ryos fantasy seemed just a bit unpleasant.
As to why I am here, you left this at the shrine. Ryo said has he once again held out his jacket and unwrapped the Ginzuishou.
Kenji and Ryo could see in the reactions of the three room occupants the mental hand slapping against the foreheads that was going on. Luna began to open her mouth to yell at Usagi for forgetting the crystal, but closed it when she realized that she herself had also been there and so was therefore also partially responsible.
Usagi silently accepted the crystal and returned it to her locket. Deciding not to add to the guilty feeling of the others, Ryo and Kenji left the room and headed back down the stairs. Taking his leave from Tsukino Kenji, Ryo opened the door and walked out. However, Kenji followed him on out.
I am guessing that you havent told your family your secret yet. I think you should. You need all your loved ones, not just Ami, to know the truth about you. I understand if you are scared about telling them and dont worry I wont tell them. That bit caused Ryo to let out a small sigh as he had been starting to worry that Kenji was going to go tell them if he didnt. And if you ever feel the need to talk to someone, you can always come and talk to either me or Ikuko.
Arigatoo. Ryo replied suddenly finding that he felt relieved knowing that he had an adult he could turn to, someone who knew about the real him. Ill think about it. Ryo said, with the standard teenager intent of not following through, but also knowing that he was going to have to face it that he would not be able to hide away the need to talk to his parents forever.
School the following day passed quickly for the various warriors, each more lost in their thoughts over what was going to happen during the teleport than paying attention to their lessons. While they now knew that they could make the teleport, each was worried as to what would happen to Usagi and what this would mean for their friends future. Each loved her dearly and wished there was some other way to test Amis theory so as not to put Usagi in any discomfort. Besides Setsuna, only Ami had any idea of how dangerous this test could really be for Usagi.
With the ringing of the bell sounding the end of day, the Sailors along with Ryo and Naru left the school grounds and headed for Reis shrine. Arriving at the shrine they found that Minako and Rei had made it there before them. Grabbing some brooms they helped Rei with her chores before the ensemble cast retired to her room to begin their schoolwork. Or as was normally the case, some did their schoolwork and others tried to sneak into Reis manga stash. In all it was a typical study session for the gathered friends, if a bit more somber in mood than normal.
As the hour approached six, ChibiUsa arrived at the shrine, having spent the afternoon with Hotaru.
Konichiwa ChibiUsa-chan. How was school? Yuuichirou called out as ChibiUsa entered the Hino residence.
Konichiwa Yuuichirou-san. ChibiUsa replied. School was ok, but then me and Hotaru-chan went to the park and that was lots of fun. ChibiUsa finished her statement with a very large smile.
Usagi-chan and the others are in Reis room. However dinner is just about ready, so why dont you go let them know while I set out the food.
Hai! ChibiUsa agreed
Grandpa Hino was strolling through the courtyard of the shrine when he heard the footsteps of someone walking up the steps to the shrine. While he had no watch on he had no doubt that it was precisely 7:15 and that this was the final guest that Rei had told him would be joining her group. Heading over to great his guest he saw that she had a peculiar greenish tint to her hair. He also had a hard time believing that this lady was here to see his daughter and join in the study session. She appeared to be at least in her mid-twenties and looked to be very well off and probably an executive of some company from the way she was dressed.
I take it you must be Meiou-san. Grandpa Hino said with a bow.
Setsuna returned the bow. Hai I am. You have a very lovely shrine here, thank you for lending me the honor of visiting it.
It is not much, but me and my daughter along with my disciple try our best to maintain it. Here let me escort you to where my daughter and her friends are.
Arigatoo. Setsuna replied before following the older gentleman off towards the living quarters.
As they walked Hino-san finally asked, If you dont mind Meiou-san, but could you tell me what your connection to my granddaughter is?
Dont worry I am not connected to Reis father in any manner. Actually my connection is not so much to Rei as it is to Usagi. I have been away for many years, but I was a good friend of Usagis mother and Usagi herself when she was much younger. My work still keeps me quite busy, but I still try to make time when I can. Setsuna replied making liberal use of neglecting a thousand years here and there.
Grandpa Hino nodded his understanding to what Setsuna said. I wonder how old she actually is, if she knew Usagi a long time ago and was friends with Ikuko-san then. She has to be at least in her mid thirties if not over 40, if what she is saying is true. However that still does not explain why you are here tonight.
Setsuna gave Reis grandfather a smile knowing that he would not be easily deceived by her normal way of responding but not actually answering the asked question. Then with a larger smile she replied, I am sure you know Usagi-chans fathers reputation with regard to boys, especially older ones. Usagi-chan and Mamoru-kun plan on going on a date tonight after she finishes her studies, I will be tagging along discreetly to satisfy Tsukino-san.
That response was met by a very hearty chuckle from Grandpa Hino. Hai, I do know Tsukino-sans habit of threatening to kill anybody who would think of dating his daughter. I am glad to see that he has found a slighter better solution. Though of course my granddaughter wont be dating till she is thirty. Oh here we are, well have a good evening Meiou-san.
Arigatoo, Hino-san for showing me the way. Setsuna replied with a bow before entering the room. Inside she saw her princess and fellow warriors, Mamoru, Naru, ChibiUsa, Urawa, and of course the three cats. How they all were managing to fit into this small room with out some kind of fight breaking out amazed Setsuna. But now was not the time to worry about that bit of good luck, now was time for their teleportation attempt.
Once again Ryo watched in awe as colored pillars of energy formed into a single silver pillar before streaking out into the night sky. And once again Tuxedo-Kamen was blown backwards, though this time he was not so lucky and hit a tree. Ryo and the others this time, however, had the foresight to stand a further distance away from the teleportation. Unfortunately Tuxedo-Kamen helping as we was in the teleport did not have that option.
The silver rainbow had only been gone for a minute when a return arc of energy followed, depositing Uranus, Neptune, ChibiMoon and Usagi on the ground. From where she was standing, Naru did not like the lifeless way that Usagi had slumped to the ground with the others upon their return. She was sure that Usagi had told her that she was the only one who did not participate in any of the teleportation, which could only mean that something was very wrong.
Consequently when Sailor Uranus barked out, The princess needs help! Naru was already running as fast as she could to the recent arrivals.
The statement instantly stirred Tuxedo-Kamen back to his feet and he also began running along with the others to Usagi. He arrived second, just after Naru had picked Usagi up from the ground to cradle in her lap and sat down beside the girl.
Arriving third, Ryo walked over to where Mercurys computer lay on the ground and was emitting a very erratic set of beeps. Picking it, up his eyes went wide as he saw the currently displayed history.
Even though ChibiMoon had passed out again after completing the teleport, she had only just hit the ground when she woke back up. Not having the energy she crawled over to where Mamoru and Naru were holding Usagi. Dropping her head onto Usagis belly while wrapping her arms tight around the girls waist, she tearfully cried, Momma wake up! Please wake up.
Rolling herself onto her side, Michiru propped herself up. Everything happened so fast, we are not sure what happened. She began, trying to explain why Usagi was in her current shape. Even before we had finished the teleportation, Mercurys computer began to beep very rapidly and then suddenly its tone became continuous and Mercury screamed at us to teleport back immediately.
What you mean? asked a very agitated Luna.
Luna dont take out your frustration on them, they did the only thing they could do and that was to teleport back here as fast as possible. Artemis said as he came up beside Luna and began to purr, trying to calm her down some.
Artemis is right. According to these reading from Amis computer Usagi fat lined moments after they arrived at their destination.
You mean shes ? Luna asked, unable to finish the question.
No, death only occurs if that is allowed to continue. And while the readings are not very good, they do indicate that she is still alive. Ryo said.
Hai, she is still breathing. Naru said, being able to easily tell as she was holding the other girl after all.
Even still I dont like what the computer is showing me. We need to get her to a hospital and fast. Without immediate medical care she will likely get far worse. Ryo said, having to call upon the ancient part of his soul in order to keep his emotions in check. Even if we do call an ambulance, I dont think they will be able to get Usagi to a hospital in time. Ryo thought to himself, he did not want to share that fear with the others, knowing that they needed at least some hope to keep them going. I just wish that there was something I could do for her. I have all this power to kill and take life, power that I no longer want but I am powerless to help one who means so much to me. Wait, before the greet sleep, Metalia had punished me sometimes by taking away my strength and at other times had invigorated me my giving me extra strength. I wonder if the same is now true of Usagi, given that she is now my liege and in a way my master.
Grasping onto that single ray of hope and kindling it into a bright light in his heart, he let go of the Mercury computer and began to walk towards Usagi. As he approached his form shifted away from his human-self to his Shadow-shelf The others all instinctively pulled away from this creature of the night, which walked on many pointed legs and had eyes which seemed to bore into ones soul. Only Mamoru, ChibiUsa and Naru stayed where they were. ChibiUsa had her face lost in her mothers shirt, having not relented the least on her death grip and Naru was of course unable to move, given as Usagi was lying in her lap.
Even though their base instinct was one of fear and fright, they all knew not to be afraid of Ryo. Not just because they knew who he was, but also because the bright glowing crescent moon on his forehead reassured all who looked at it. Moving to kneel down on the other side of Naru from where Mamoru was, Ryo reached out and placed what went for a hand in this form on Usagis shoulder and closed his eyes. Looking into his soul he tried to find his connection to his liege, but he was unable to find any hint of that connection.
Growling a mind-shattering screech of frustration, Ryo redoubled his efforts to find that connection and was finally awarded to find her presence at the very edge of his senses. He could instantly tell that she was quickly slipping away from the rest of the world. Now with a focus he attempted to in his minds eye to reach out and grab a hold of Usagi. But every attempt he made was met with failure. The first time his fingers grazed the edge of her body. He then tried a second, third and a twenty-fourth time, but each of those subsequent tries fell further and further short. This is hopeless; there is no way that I am going to be able to reach her. If only I had tried this sooner; I would have reached her, I just needed only a few more seconds. Ryo thought as utter failure fell on his shoulders.
If you want to save her, I can help. Stated a female voice.
Confused Ryo turned to find the speaker. He had no idea how someone could be here with him in his minds eye. Finding the speaker, he was unable to make out any of her appearance, as shadows clung to her body as if they were a second skin.
Who are you? he asked.
Your master.
I serve no master any more. I am in the service of Tsukino Usagi, Princess Serenity of the Moon Kingdom.
The shadow figure chuckled. How deranged you are to believe that lie. You think a simple rebirth could cleanse your soul? You are mine for all time. There is no way for someone as pure as Sailor Moon to have you in her service. This is only a short respite, once again you will become the soldier of death and march to my tune.
I will not Ryo yelled as he lunged at this figure. However, before his feet could even leave the ground a staff was jammed into his gut sending him down to the ground and in quite a bit of pain. Walking up beside Ryo, this master jammed her staff down on his chest and then proceeded to hold it in that painful position.
You will.
Looking up Ryo was finally able see something more than just shadows, he was able to see very cold violet eyes looking down at him. But then suddenly they softened and the staff was gone. Finding himself back on his feet and this time in an open field with Usagi laying not too distant from where he stood he looked at this master in confusion.
You called upon me for a reason. I am not cruel; I just have the task of bringing an end to creation. However it is not her time and I have decided to help you accomplish your noble task. Now go kneel down beside her and place your hands on her chest and concentrate, dont force it. Ryo did as she instructed and was able to quickly feel a warm glow build at his hands, which flowed from there into Usagis body.
Looking back at the shadow figure in order to thank her he did get the change as reality shifted back to normal and his minds eye world vanished. Turning back to Usagi he saw that Mamoru also now had his hands on Usagis chest and they were glowing with a golden glow.
Looking at Usagis face he could already see the difference that their combined efforts were making. Color was returning to her cheeks and he could now hear that her breathing had become steady. Looking into her sleeping eyes, reality once again faded away. This time it was replaced by a battle taking place somewhere in Tokyo. The droid the Senshi were facing threw Sailor Mars into what appeared to look like a building made out of crystal. Mars left a noticeable dent in the side of the building before falling down onto a Model T Ford parked at its base.
The vision then suddenly shifted forward in time to all the Sailor Senshi except for Sailor Pluto staring up into the sky at a floating red headed man, whom Ryo figured must be Rubeus. He could not hear what Rubeus was saying, but he did see him snap his fingers. With the snap of his fingers, time came to a crawl for Ryos minds eye. He could hear the others suddenly cry out Sailor Moon, NO! But as that was happening his view moved to an eagle eye view of the city. As the city became but a backdrop intense points of light became visible on the city, each one crawling with energy. Then in time with the end of Rubeuss snap, the points of white energy suddenly flickered and became as black as night. As each one gave over to darkness, a tendril of black energy snaked out to connect it to one of its neighbors and then when they were all connected the manna nexus erupted into the afternoon sky.
Ryo had a sickening feeling as his mind processed the cry of the others from before and linked it to this nightmare of dark energy he saw in front of himself and Amis theory on what was happening to Usagi. In confirmation of that feeling of dread, the vision returned back to street level and time resumed its normal pace; this time allowing him to see the lifeless dead body of Sailor Moon fall to the ground, her fuku dissolving into nothing but pink ribbons, which themselves faded into nothingness.
Her was forced to gaze into her vacant eyes for many long minutes before his vision refocused to be looking at Mercurys computer. He watched the flat line readouts from her computer as the device produced a single solid tone. The others were too stunned to say anything, but Rubeus was not. He was laughing to the success of his attack. A laugh that continued to haunted Ryo even when the vision finally ended. Desperate to get away from that laugh and vision Ryo immediately began to back paddle upon the return of reality. However, as the horror of what he had seen continued to sink in he found that he could no longer hold down his dinner. For Naru he had thankfully just gotten far enough away from her that he did not cover her with any of it.
As Ryo lay on the ground emptying his stomach contents, Haruka who had returned to her feet, came over stand beside him and laid a comforting hand on his back. Even when he emptied his stomach the heaving continued. And it was not till six minutes later that he finally was able to get everything back under control. And the final return of control only came as a second hand was placed on his back and a soft voice asked, Ryo-chan are you okay?
I think that I am going to be okay now. Ryo said as he turned to see that Usagi was the owner of the voice and second hand. Ryo wanted to ask Usagi why she was up and about and to find out how she was doing, but seeing the concern in her eyes he knew that would only occur after he had relieved her concerns over his own welfare.
I had a vision. Ryo said, trying to figure out how to tell the person next to you that you had just seen her death.
What did you see?
Not now, I am still trying to sort it all out. Hopefully Rei might be able to make sense of what I saw both now and last night. And maybe if I am lucky it will turn out that my Shadow-self is skewing what I am seeing in these visions. I just hope that I am not seeing the actual future.
TELEPORT NOW! Mercury screamed
Wha Sailor Uranus began to say.
NOW! Mercury screamed back.
Looking to quickly get away from Sailor Mercury who looked like she would kill them if they waited any longer, Uranus, Neptune, and ChibiMoon initiated their return teleport. As soon as those three along with Usagi had left Mercury slumped to the ground.
Ami what just happened. Rei asked in a very icy voice as she stalked towards Mercury.
Yes what was with the hurry and why was your computer making that steady tone? Venus asked.
The princess fell into cardiac arrest. Pluto simply stated.
Nani-ka?! the other three exclaimed.
My calculations were wrong. Mercury meekly said from where she knelt on the ground and not having the strength of heart to look up at the others, just stared into the dirt. She was still benefiting from Tokyos energy nexus out in the country. But here on the other side of the planet where she is fully isolated from that energy nexus, she is unable to live at all. I was sure that the worst that would happen, might be her falling unconscious till we got her back. I never thought that taking her away from Tokyo could actually kill her.
NANI! Mars shouted at Mercury. How could you do that to her! She trusted you!
Rei calm down. Jupiter said. She and the others had seen Reis temper before, but her worst temper explosion was mild compare to how Reis temper was boiling now.
Rei just ignored Jupiter as she began to advance on Mercury. WELL? she challenged Mercury while her hands began to glow with the energy of Mars.
Mercury for her part just lowered her head even more, presenting Rei the back of her neck, making no move to defend herself.
That does it. Jupiter exclaimed as tackled the advancing Mars. Completely focused as she was on Mercury, Mars was caught unawares. Slamming Mars into the ground, Jupiter moved quickly to take advantage of the element of surprise and rolled Mars into a wrestling hold. Looking up at Venus she said, Venus get Mercury out of here, I will take care of Mars.
Jupiter you sure? the blonde asked, not wanting to leave Jupiter with Mars in her current state.
Hai, now go! The sooner you get Mercury away from here the sooner we will be able to calm Mars down. Assuming that I can get her to listen to reason at all.
Not wasting any further time, Venus run up to Mercury and picked up the other warrior in her arms. Mercury did not react at all to Venus picking her up and Venus knew that if she wanted to get Mercury to safety, she would have to carry her. Adjusting her hold of Mercury to better hold the younger girl, Venus began to race across the large park they had arrived in, heading for the buildings that lined the park and paying no attention to the very perplexed tourists. Have to ask Ami later what that tall pointy building is that we arrived next to.
Venus did not break stride as she came to the end of the park and arrived at the edge of the street, instead she leapt into the traffic causing drivers to slam on their breaks. However, she never noticed since her leap was aimed to land her on the roof of a passing truck and from there she jumped to the roof of a building awning and then up to the rooftops.
Once she reached the rooftops, she took off on a diagonal, hoping that might confuse Mars if she got loose from Jupiter and Pluto. As she ran she kept checking behind herself, trying to see if Mars was in pursuit. After traveling many blocks, she felt that they had put enough distance between themselves and so she found a nearby alley and dropped back down to street level.
Putting Mercury down on her own feet, Venus released her transformation. Now with the adrenaline rush from getting away from Reis wrath gone, she began to succumb to the exhaustion of the teleportation. Stepping backwards, she leaned up against the side of the building while she tried to catch her breath. Looking over to where Ami was standing she saw that the other girl had at least also released her transformation. But that was all; Ami still had that vacant resigned look on her face.
The trilling sound of their communicators drew, Minakos attention. Venus along with Mercury here. She said as she opened it.
Pluto, Mars and Jupiter also proceeded to chime in on the line.
Just to let the five of you know, the princess is doing fine now. Ryo-kun was able to somehow fully heal the princess and now she is busy fussing over the rest of us. Harukas voice said over the link.
Thanks. The four said before closing the link.
Ami-chan dont worry Usagi is doing perfectly fine. Minako said as gathered what strength she had to move and embrace her friend.
But I I almost killed her. I If it wasnt for Ryo-chan she would be Ami tried to say as she broke down into tears.
That is very true Ami-chan. said Setsuna who had some how appeared right next to the two, startling the heck out of Minako. However if you hadnt acted as you did, then the princess would be dead for real very soon. As foolish as this test was, it was needed to cause something else to happen.
Minako did not even try to puzzle out how Setsuna had found them or how she had gotten here so quickly and did not appear to be the least bit out of breath. Looking over at Ami, Minako saw that she did appear to be mulling over what Setsuna was saying.
Know that my duty above everything else is to protect the princess. Even Small Ladys life is expendable if it will save the princess. Consequently I would never have agreed to this if I thought that it would kill her.
Now I suggest you go and enjoy your time here in this city. It will be some hours before everyone is ready to attempt another teleport. And you know that the princess will be very unhappy with you if you mope around getting depressed over what you did.
Hai, Setsunas right. Heck Usagi probably has already forgiven you for what happened. That is if she ever even thought to blame you. Youll just make her sad and feel guilty if she knows that you spent your time here like this. Anyways I know you had a good reason for picking this city as our teleport coordinates, now didnt you?
Looking up at Minako sheepishly, Ami admitted, Hai I did. I wanted to go visit some of the Smithsonian museums.
Then get going. As for myself I am going to go find a nice café to rest at. Minako said
You sure? You look tired, I could join Ami began
No, you are going to go enjoy yourself. Now get yourself going girl. Minako said as she practically threw Ami out into the street.
After watching to make sure that Ami was indeed heading away, Minako returned to the alley and collapsed to the ground. Boy am I pooped.
Here let me give you a hand, I know of a good place to get a bite to eat not far from here. Setsuna offered.
Hai, that sounds great.
Three and a half hours later, found the five warriors from Japan reassembled at the Lincoln Memorial. Setsuna had suggested this as a location for them to meet at instead of the Washington Monument where they had arrived, since they would need to find someplace with cover in which to henshin. Being out in the open with tourists and their cameras everywhere is generally not a good placed to henshin if one wants to keep secrets.
Surprisingly it was Rei who was the last of the group to arrive at the meeting place. Of the five, she was the only one who had not wandered far from their initial arrival location. She had instead decided to tour the various memorials. Early on she had come across the Vietnam memorial and that was where the rest of her time had been spent. She had slowly moved down along the length of the memorial saying a separate prayer for each name that was on that wall and then some more for the fallen of wars not remembered.
Her spirit refreshed after paying her respect to those who had valiantly fallen in the line of duty she had found another Japanese tourist so that she could ask directions on how to find the Lincoln Memorial. With the quality of her English skills she did not want to try to get directions from one of the Americans, figuring that she would just get herself even more lost.
Finally she did arrive at the meeting place and immediately walked towards Ami. She inwardly flinched as she saw Ami pull back slightly and a flicker of fear cross the other girls face. Bowing very deeply to Ami she said, Moshi wake arimasen. Mizuno-san I am very ashamed for my actions earlier. There is no excuse for how I acted and even less excuse for how I would have acted if Makoto hadnt restrained me.
Rei Ami began, however Rei did not stop her apology.
No not even my concerns over Usagis safety excuse what I did. I know she will not approve of what I did and even if she had been lost to us, that still would not excuse what I did. While the other three knew that Rei would end up apologizing what Rei did next took them all by surprise. After my actions this afternoon I dont deserve to fight alongside you anymore. Rei said as she handed over her transformation wand.
As Ami took a hold of it, she felt the power of Mars flow out of Rei and into the wand. Watching as she was from the side, Setsunas eyes went wide as she felt that transfer of power occur. This cant be. Rei has renounced her right to wield the power of Mars? She has embedded her Star Seed into that wand, preventing herself from ever calling upon the power of Mars again. The wands are just focusing tools, but she has made it the actual container of her power! Looking down at the wand she held, Ami saw that it had changed from being metallic in construction to now being constructed of some type of red crystal.
Whether you choose to take me back with you or leave me here that is your decision. And with that Rei turned her back on the others and began walking away.
Ami looked down again at the wand that she held in her hand, she did have to think about what she needed to do. Any other choice was unacceptable. Closing her hand around the wand she took off after the quickly disappearing Rei.
Makoto for her part moved to follow Ami, however Minakos hand restrained her. What are you doing? Makoto asked with an edge to her voice.
This is something Ami has to do herself. The rift between the two of them needs to be fully healed now. If not, Rei will never be able to accept the power of Mars again. Minako said
And if she does not, then she will die. Setsuna said from behind the two girls. Ignoring their reaction, she continued, Your powers are inherently interwoven with your soul. There is no way to separate them without killing the soul. Remember what her highness said before reawakening your powers? Rei may look fine now, but her soul is dieing. In an hour or so her body will begin to fade away as what is left of her soul finally fades away. In two hours, Rei will be no more and nothing not even the Ginzuishou will be able to able to bring her back.
Rei, Rei-chan wait-up. Ami called as she followed Rei out of the building and down the steps. Only when Rei reached the edge of the reflecting pool did the priestess stop walking and instead take a seat.
Taking a space beside Rei, Ami saw that Rei was avoiding her eyes. Rei-chan look at me. Ami commanded, knowing that right now she needed Rei to do as told, later would come the healing. And Rei did respond and looked into Amis eyes. Rei I accept your apology from before, but this is not the way to make it up to me. We need you, Usagi needs you. Along with Naru you are Usagis best friend. I know that you love her more than anything and probably more than you will ever love anyone else. And as such you push her to be the best that she can be. I know that every thing you do is in her best interests and that it was only your love for her that caused you to act before.
Seeing Rei attempt to say something, Ami held up her hand to silence the other girl. Just listen to me Rei. You made a mistake we all make mistakes. But no matter how bad the mistake is, Usagi always finds it in her heart to forgive. Remember Ann and Ail, they almost killed her yet she still considers them to be very good friends. She took Ryo into her service even though he served Metalia and was one of the warriors responsible for our own deaths.
What you are doing is not going to undo anything that you had done, nor undo what you wanted to do to me. Nor is it going to make anything better. You are just going to hurt Usagi very deeply when she hears that you have given up your powers. That will hurt her far more than even if you had killed me. You know she will just blame herself for your actions.
Furthermore none of us can fill the role you play. Without you, there is no way that Usagi will be able to become the queen and mother that ChibiUsa knows. She needs you, we all need you.
If you want to leave, then I cant return either for I am the root cause of this. If I hadnt made those unwarranted assumptions none of this would have happened. Ami said as she pulled out her own transformation wand and channeled her own energy into it. Let me know what you decide. Ami said while dropping the wand into Reis hand. However, not as trained with the spiritual powers as Rei, she had over exerted the channeling of her power into the wand and had trapped so much of her own essence in the wand that it not only changed to a blue crystal wand but now glowed very brightly and Ami immediately fell to the ground, her body appearing as if it was fading away.
The normally stoic Setsuna cursed under her breath as her keen eyes caught Ami falling to the ground. Surprising the other two girls she broke into a run as her form shifted to that of Sailor Pluto. How did I miss that knot in the tapestry? There is no way I should have been blind to one of us completely loosing our Star Seeds. Pluto thought to herself as she sprinted the distance, knowing very well that Ami only had minutes at most to live before she was lost forever.
Rei just watched in horror as Ami suddenly collapsed to the ground. Forgetting about the wand that Ami had dropped into her hand, Rei moved quickly to catch the other girl and lowered her to the ground. Whats going on, why is her body fading like this? It almost feels like I am holding air. Is this what was going to happen to me? I know that I would die, but like this? Rei thought to herself as began to recite prayers to save Amis soul.
Hearing footsteps, Rei looked up and saw Sailor Pluto along with Minako and Makoto arrive. Whats happening to her? Rei asked in between two prayers.
Ami has released her soul and without it her body is fading away. Pluto replied
She must have messed up the channeling and caught her own soul in with the planetary power. Rei wrongly thought to herself. Is there anything we can do?
We no, but you might still be able to save her. Pluto said.
How? I will do anything. Rei said without hesitation.
Then take up your transformation wand and call back your power. When you do so place Amis wand on her chest and hold it there with your hand. With luck because she gave you her power you will be able to return it to her.
Hai. Rei said as she reached out her arm and snagged her transformation wand from where Ami had dropped it. After transferring it to her other hand she reached behind herself to grab Amis wand her from it had been dropped. Then following Plutos instructions, she placed Amis wand on the girls chest and held her wand high in the air. Mars Power Make-Up! she called.
The blast of energy from her wand almost overwhelmed her senses and the energy she had given up came crashing back into her body. The experience was like nothing that she had felt before and made the sensation of that first henshin seem mild in comparison. As the fires of Mars burned off her civilian clothing and reformed into her Sailor Fuku she felt the fires begin to turn to ice in her left hand where she held Amis transformation wand. Then suddenly her hand felt like it was flash frozen in liquid nitrogen as the power of Mercury awoke and flowed into Ami.
Releasing Amis transformation wand, she pulled back her hand and instantly the cold sensation was gone. Sitting back on her legs she knew that she never wanted to experience the loss of her powers again. They were so much a part of her soul that she was not the same without them. And then to her delight she noticed that Amis body no longer looked like it was on the verge of fading from view and even better Ami began to slowly open her eyes.
Ami-chan youre okay! Rei exclaimed once Ami had fully awoken and pulled the other girl into a big hug.
Well so much for trying to keep a low profile. Minako said quietly to Makoto having taken notice of the fact that they appeared to have everyones attention and quite a few flash bulbs were going off.
Guess we might as well finish off the light show. Makoto replied as she produced her own transformation wand. And after getting an agreeing nod from Minako, the two girls henshin as well.
Dont ever do that again. Rei said to Ami in between the tears she was shedding as she held the other girl.
As long as you agree not to do anything stupid like that either. Ami replied with a smile.
Agreed. I was letting my emotions carry me away again.
I know, I did too. You need to let those emotions out more frequently so that you can control them better. Your over reacting is a result of how you bottle up those emotions. You try to not let out your love for Usagi and as such you loose it when her life is on the line. Ami said moving into her doctor mode.
Hai, Ill try better. Maybe Michiru, Makoto, or even Usagi might be able to help me. Rei agreed.
Ami simply nodded. Come lets go home she said as she stood up and pulled Rei to her feet.
Hai! Rei agreed with a smile.
-End Chapter 32End Notes: - Well I decided to skip on the promised cameo of Jack Ryan, just couldnt figure out a good way to write it in. I had it thought out in my head about two years ago (has it been that much time, yikes), but unfortunately never scribbled down any notes. As it was I think the cameo would have taken away from that part of the chapter.
- Well lets see I am only about four months late in getting this chapter out, and I thought I was getting back on top of things. Well what are my excuses, well there were some really good fanfics to read, then there of course is work and life. The light nights at work dont really do it, it is when it is time to right those final reports. When I am doing those, my desire to write is burned out by the time I get home. But that is what I get for being a contract researcher. But I get to play with fun things as well like writing code to turn digital video into time lapse photographs.
- The mystery of the time travel from the future should be revealed in two chapters I think. I wonder how many have figured out who Ryos master is. And for those who are wondering while Black Lady will not be making an appearance her evil twin sister will be.
- Before I leave you all, thought I would leave you with some other good stories to read to keep you happy till the next ice age, since my writing pace seems to have fallen to glacial speed.
- First there is Sailor Moon V: The Dark Adventures of the Sailor Scouts by Troy Silverton. This fic uses the American dub names, but is very very good, it is also for more mature audiences (though the first installment can be read by all For the Love of Mercury). Just dont make the mistake I made when I found his website with a couple chapter I hadnt read, make sure you dont read them all at once. One nice thing is that after you get up to date, he often makes small updates one or more times each week to the story.
- The other fics I have to recommend are actually Ranma 1/2 fics. On you can find Ranma a Different Path Taken by Kayemsi, Nekos Mate by Shall-Iin (a series of loosely related one-shot stories), and the Journey by Druth. and then at Comes the Cold Dragon by Don Granberry (another very good story).
- Oh and Princess Mononoke is very good movie if you get the chance to rent it.
- And a reminder to everyone that I have a yahoo groups mailing list that is used exclusively for emailing announcements of the posting of new chapters. Either send an email to: or visit And given how infrequent that is, it is probably quite useful. :)
- And Thanks to Horosha for pointing out that Rei should be fluent in English even though the anime had her not being (11-7-04)
