I do not own the characters.
As much as I can - I try to incorporate storylines and actual wording from the manga. I think it makes for a stronger story.
AN: Lyrics added, 12.10.07
Chapter 4: A Crystal Clear Destiny
"I'll sing it one last time for you
Then we really have to go
You've been the only thing that's right
In all I've done
And I can barely look at you
But every single time I do
I know we'll make it anywhere
Away from here
Light up, light up
As if you have a choice
Even if you cannot hear my voice
I'll be right beside you dear
Louder louder
And we'll run for our lives
I can hardly speak I understand
Why you can't raise your voice to say
To think I might not see those eyes
Makes it so hard not to cry
And as we say our long goodbye
I nearly do
Light up, light up
As if you have a choice
Even if you cannot hear my voice
I'll be right beside you dear."
- Run, Snow Patrol
Time seemed to come a virtual standstill as the soldiers ran into camp. Everyone froze, unsure what to do next. Darien was the first to move and calmly walked over and knelt by Serena's side. He wrapped his arms around her and held the beautiful Princess close. His men shared a look. Their Captain had never acted like this. He rarely showed emotion, and although he occasionally threw himself at beautiful strangers...they were usually not enemy pursued princesses.
Within Darien's embrace, Serena's large blue eyes came open and she looked up at the American, and whispered, "You came for me."
"Of course I did."
Serena reached out and brushed some of Darien's dark hair out of his face. It was such a loving gesture that everyone watching felt as if they were intruding on a very intimate moment. Mia motioned the girls to give Serena and Darien some privacy. Mia didn't understand how her Princess, someone who she had known since diapers, seemed to know this American soldier from a world away, but the spark between them was something that could not be denied. The duchess thought of the images from the fire, and in that moment, recognized Darien as the handsome Prince. His last actions as been brave, but in vain. Although he had protected Serenity from certain death, his own end had motivated the Princess to killing herself.
As the former senshi and shitennou left their Prince and Princess to get reacquainted, there was a gulf of silence between them. The girls, with the horrific images in their heads from minutes ago, were unable to look the men in the eye...and trying to come to terms with the betrayal they had seen.
Malcolm looked across at Mia…her formerly short hair was long and beautiful now, just like he imagined it would be. He longed to reach out and touch those silky locks. She was looking at him with an incredibly pained expression on her face.
Who had caused her so much pain?
Nick was the first to speak, and asked casually, "What exactly happened to those soldiers back there?"
Lita answered proudly, "We can take care of our own without help, thank you very much."
The men shared a look of disbelief. Four European duchesses ruthlessly took down an entire group of trained Nazi soldiers? Something wasn't adding up. Malcolm looked at Mia, and stated, "We are under orders to escort Serena to safety."
Rae spoke up, "What can you offer her that we can't?"
Jake responded, "The Queen herself wrote with wishes to remove Serena from of the country."
"And we're supposed to believe that? Why would the Queen want Serena to leave Europe? This is Serena's home and her country is under attack!"
Jake drawled, "Just following orders, m'am. Darien is going to feel the same way."
They were interrupted by Serena screaming in the distance. As they all sprinted for the clearing, nothing could prepare them for the scene in front of them. Serena was being held hostage by a new unit of Nazi soldiers. Circling Darien, they hesitated, unsure whether his uniform was authentic, and if he should be trusted. There was a brief scuffle, but before the Americans or senshi could do anything, Darien had been captured as well. As Captain Shields continued to struggle, he was stilled by the order, "Make one move and we'll run her through."
"No, you won't," Mia spat angrily, "She's worth everything in one piece."
"Who is your commanding officer?" Nick asked in German, hoping to get a further moment of distraction by pretending to be a Nazi soldier.
But the wary soldiers were too fast, and the same officer who had threatened Serena, gave the order, "Fine, we will not hurt the Crown Princess, but we have no problem maiming one of our 'own.'"
One of the soldiers holding Darien whipped out a knife and pressed it to the American's neck.
"NOOOO!" Serena screamed shrilly, and locked eyes with Darien.
A single tear escaped from the Princess's wide blue eyes. The tear appeared normal enough but grew silver and then began to glow. In front of everyone, the girls transformed into their senshi uniforms and Serena changed into a flowing white dress, her blonde hair faded to silver and grew - matching the hairstyle of the princess from the picture. The tear continued to grow until it was a large jewel, glowing brighter than any diamond. Although it had never been seen, no one could mistake the Ginzuberg Diamond. The crystal of legend and myth was real. Those who witnessed its arrival were struck by the sheer power they could feel radiating from it. The words whispered through the senshi's ears...
… Imperium Silver Crystal…
Mia whispered, "It can't be..."
Serena looked down at the Crystal within her hands, then gazed slowly at the soldiers holding Darien. In the blink of an eye, Serena yelled out and blasted the men away from Darien. In her blast, a light shone from the crystal. The remaining soldiers didn't wait to see what would happen if they tried attacking and sprinted towards the forest. The American soldiers stood, entranced by the light. The crystal seemed to refract the light and they could see images within it. Each man caught a glimpse of his former life, as before, the images ended with their terrible demise…at the hands of the very women in front of them.
The light stopped and it was quiet once again.
All of the Nazis were gone, leaving the American soldiers, the transformed senshi, Darien and Serena looking again at one another.
Serena collapsed. As Darien ran to catch the Princess, Mia ran for the Crystal, which attached itself onto the end of her chain.
Mia nodded at Amy and asked gently, "Why don't you try and explain to the men what's going on as we know it? Let the Americans know what we've discovered so far...in the book."
Amy, ever the voice of reason, did her best to try and put the events together in a logical form. Making eye contact with the quartet, she explained, "As far as can be determined, we, the court of Crown Princess Serenity from the kingdom of Ginzuberg, are the reincarnated versions of young women that lived on the Moon many years ago. We were, in our former lives, very much the same roles we are today – protectors and advisors to our Princess. The forms we have now are those we used to have. Warriors sworn to protect the Princess."
The men took in the strange and revealing costumes…short colorful skirts…high heels, hardly effective when it came to combat.
Amy continued, "These forms seem to become available to us when Serena is in danger and we have, er, special powers that help us protect her. You saw the result of that when we had to free Serena from the Nazi soldiers earlier."
Zach looked in disbelief, "That was the work of the four of you back there?"
Amy nodded shyly.
Nick asked, "So how do we fit into all this? What was that we saw just now?"
Amy took a deep breath, "We've seen the same thing you have…mostly images of a happy time that was interrupted by a dark power. We're not sure what led up to these events."
Rae spoke up, "It's why we're not sure we can trust you."
There was a moment of silence.
Malcolm looked at Mia, "What's this about a book?"
Amy went to get the book out of the rucksack that they had put on Morning Star's back. As everyone followed, Darien looked down at the unconscious Serena. The crystal was obviously the weapon his commanding officer was referring to. Somehow, he had to get Serena and the crystal back to the safety of the United States. Darien shuddered to think what the Nazi scientists would do if they could release that kind of power on the world.
You think she's just going to part with that jewel willingly, Shields? You think she'll just hand it over to the United States government? You think the girls with her are just going to give up something that obviously belongs to them?
Darien sighed deeply. He wanted to be honest with Serena and tell her the truth of why he was in her country, but knew no one could know the real reason behind getting Serena to the States. Darien had to separate in his mind his responsibility to his country and the world and to the beautiful Princess. Try as he might, he couldn't forget the images the crystal had revealed. There had been a man that looked like him, dressed in armor, and a woman who looked identical to the way Serena looked now. They looked so in love…until something had killed him. Tears welled up in his eyes as he recalled how the young woman had taken her own life.
What did it all mean?
The men finished looking silently through the book. Although difficult to admit, there was one picture that stuck in their minds. The girls were just as they were now and men who looked very much like themselves were with them…romantically. No one could deny how happy the couples were.
Jake scoffed, "So you really want us to believe that we are actually the people in this story? Somehow, we've been reincarnated? Yeah, right. I think this is obviously a case of hallucination. We've all been under a lot of stress and have had almost no sleep."
Rae looked skeptically at Jake, and asked, "Then how do you explain the Crystal coming out of the Princess' tears?"
Jake looked to Zach, "Zach, why don't you take this one?"
Zach could no more come up with the answer than stop gazing at Amy. Caught staring at his favorite duchess, Zach tried to come up with an answer, "Well, Jake, the thing is…I have no idea how to explain any of the events we've just witnessed. If we are all hallucinating, it would have to be a very powerful substance to create the images we've all witnessed this evening."
Fiery tempered Rae was getting angry. She walked over to Jake, smiled, and jammed the point of her red stilettos into his foot.
"OWWWWWWWWW!"
"Now, do you still think you're dreaming?"
Jake shot Rae a mean look, while holding his foot.
Mia looked around, "This is obviously getting us nowhere. As far as we know, the story and the things we've seen are all in the past. Maybe this is all a strange way of getting a second chance. However, we have to admit the obvious. We're all connected and until we figure out exactly how, the main focus is getting Serena to safety."
Darien had walked up to the group, with Serena in his arms, and said clearly, "We leave now." There was nothing in Darien's tone that suggested this was something that could be debated, "And this time we stay together."
Malcolm asked, "What is our destination?"
"England. We'll find safe passage there to the States."
The girls shared a look. Mia looked at Darien, "The States?"
"I'm doing as your Queen wishes. Also, Europe is not safe," Darien shifted Serena in his arms. She leaned into him and sighed. With the exhale of her breath, the Princess transformed into her old clothes, altough her hair remained in its longer condition. The girls found themselves de-transforming as well. The men tried to avert their eyes, but were pleased with what they could catch a glimpse of. Mia immediately dropped to the ground and quickly found what she was looking for…the Crystal. Using one of Serena's newly elongated long hairs, she tied placed the jewel around the Princess's neck.
Although unconscious, Serena's hand went and clasped the Crystal around her neck. She smiled as she held it tight, like a small child would do with a beloved teddy bear.
The group walked in silence through the forest. They were all on alert, but also lost in their own thoughts. Mia's thoughts turned to the power of the Crystal. What good would come of running and hiding in the protection of the United States? Shouldn't they turn and make a stand for Ginzuberg? Was the power of the Crystal enough to defeat the Nazis? Mia looked ahead at Serena and thought about how drained she felt. The changed identities clearly took a lot out of everyone. Mia's eyes were drawn to Malcolm's broad shoulders and she was struck how he was missing something. A cape.
General Kunzite…
Malcolm casually looked back at the group, but his gray eyes lingered on Mia's curvy figure. Was it only a few mornings ago they had…? In his mind, he savored one of the images he had seen earlier in the Crystal…he and Mia were dancing together. There was no duty or service…just the two of them, alone, dancing. Malcolm knew that in this crazy situation, things could change at a moment. Even a soldier was allowed a moments peace...
Amy was running over the entire evening in her mind. What struck her was when the Crystal had appeared. Serena had been in danger multiple times in the past week and so had the Queen, but the powerful stone had only come out when Darien was in danger. Somehow he was pivotal in the Crystal's energy. Amy's thoughts drifted ahead of her to Zach. She looked again and saw him wearing a strange uniform.
…Zoisite…
Zach walked along, his mind working overtime. Logic, his old friend, was letting him down. None of the events in the past week added up to where they were now. He would do anything to get access to a laboratory and the Crystal. He also would do just about anything to get a few minutes alone with Amy…
Duchess Rae wished she had stepped on both Jake's feet. Something about him had gotten under her skin and she was not too pleased about it. It used to be only Jadeite could get her this worked up, this passionate.
...Jadeite…
Jake, walking ahead of Rae, swore he could feel the temperature rising. What was the source of the heat? Surely it couldn't be…and yet, clearly radiating from behind him was Rae. Jake looked down at his foot…maybe he wasn't dreaming.
Lita was enjoying her daydream. In her mind she saw herself, in her senshi uniform, asleep in a large kitchen. Suddenly right before her was a tall, broad shouldered man with long reddish hair. He was looking at her so lovingly...
…Nephrite…
Nick had a sudden desire for pastries. He wasn't sure why, in the middle of the forest, running from the Nazis he would get this crazy craving, but he swore he could taste them…sweet and delicious, much like imagined Lita's lips would taste like.
And so the group continued on through the night…
Darien had a difficult decision in front of him. The Crystal - his main mission for coming to the country - was within his grasp. All he would have to do is inform his men of the true plan, and they would be able to complete the orders he had been sent with.
You're not actually considering that option, are you? Furthermore, in case you were blind to those images, I'm not so sure your men would so willingly leave the duchesses...
Deep down, from the moment he had touched down on Ginzuberg soil, he knew his mission had changed. From entering the palace and receiving the orders from the Queen, he knew his real purpose for being in country was to rescue Serena and see her safely away. Protecting Serena meant protecting the Crystal as well, and he vowed, that could mean keeping the secret of the jewel from his own government. To accomplish his goal, he needed to separate Serena from the group, as he knew they could travel faster without additional people. He felt an incredible urgency to get her off of this continent, as far away from Hitler as possible. Even though he possessed a letter from the Queen herself, he knew Serena was as duty bound as he was, and might not want to leave. Still, he had to try. Without hesitating, he swung around quickly, "This is where we part company. Malcolm, your mission has changed. Your new assignment is to rescue the Queen and bring her to an Allied government."
Malcolm nodded. He knew the group dynamic was too big to travel without raising obvious awareness. Darien continued, "Men, you are now under Malcolm's direction. "
The men saluted while the girls shared a look. Mia spoke up, "Captain Shields, while I don't appreciate you not consulting me, I do respect what you are trying to do. I alone will go with you. My fellow duchesses will go with your men to help rescue the Queen. Do not expect us to take 'no' for an answer. While the United States Army has not trained us, we have been educated in hand-to-hand combat, languages, and a variety of weapons. I think you'll find Serena's court unlike any other women you've ever met."
Darien sighed deeply, knowing there was no way of telling these young women to leave this mission in the hands of professionals. He nodded, "Well, let's separate what supplies we have left. No doubt the Nazis are still looking for us."
The group made quick work of the supplies. Mia and Darien decided it would be best if they took Morning Star. Mia looked anxiously at Malcolm. She watched his commanding presence as he spoke to the other men. They had been given such a short time together and now it was ending. In these dangerous times, there was no promise they would see the other again. The thought made her feel sick, but what could be done? This was a case of duty, and not a time to be selfish. Sighing deeply, Mia looked across at Serena, who was still unconscious. Her Princess needed her. Mia looked back at Malcolm who looked up and locked eyes with her cerulean ones. There was a need in his eyes that made Mia shiver. Even with all that was going on, Mia had a momentary daydream of taking Malcolm's hand and running away.
Maybe...maybe this time things would work out for us. Maybe after the war was over, we can all find peace.
In response, Mia winked seductively at Malcolm and turned away. As much as she wanted it, there would be no chance for a proper goodbye. She called the girls over to her. The young woman tried to be strong, but her voice cracked as she told her friends, "Look after each other. I know it may be awhile before we see each other again. But we will."
Rae's purple eyes flicked anxiously over at Serena, "You will take care of her?"
Mia smiled and nodded, "I will guard her with my life."
Lita crossed her arms, "Don't worry about us. I think we're going to be looking after the Americans before this is all over."
"Well, yes, of course, but don't let them think that." They all shared a laugh. Mia continued, "Well, Amy, looks like you also have some mystery on your hands. I hope you can discover what all these images and costumes mean. If they really are our past lives..."
Amy tired to look cheerful, "I'd love to get a look at the Crystal under a microscope, but I think it may be awhile before I get a chance at that."
With a group hug, kisses to Serena, and brave faces the girls parted company…none sure when they would ever be together again in their beloved country. Darien led Morning Star, while Mia held Serena up in the saddle. Mia did her best not to turn around and stare at Malcolm's broad retreating back. She couldn't be positive, but was pretty sure part of her heart was walking in another direction.
Malcolm looked around at the group, but really looked to catch a glance of Mia's blonde hair walking away from him. He was glad with the responsibility that Darien had given him and knew he was up to the task, but wished a certain duchess was at his side. Without Mia around, Malcolm felt empty. It wasn't made easier by the obvious budding romances happening between his soldiers and the duchesses of Ginzuberg.
Darien and Malcolm had decided that the best plan would be to disguise the girls as soon as possible. No doubt the Nazi soldiers knew exactly what the duchesses looked like. Darien hoped that if they didn't see Serena's distinctive looks, that they wouldn't look as closely. Once they found a secure location, the first step would be to find where the Nazis had taken the fair Queen.
Malcolm was so lost in his thoughts; he almost jumped when he felt a delicate hand on his shoulder. It was Rae. Although Malcolm could admit the raven-haired girl was attractive, she didn't hold a candle to Mia.
"Yes, Rae?"
"I know you're 'leading' this whole thing," she commented skeptically, "So I thought I might offer you some of my skills."
"Such as?"
Rae locked her amethyst eyes on his grey ones, "Sometimes, I have the ability to read the future…I can sense things. I'll need a fire."
"Do you think you can locate the Queen?"
"If you give me chance…I'll try my best."
Malcolm thought a moment. Two weeks ago he would have turned around and kept walking. Today, his intuition told him to stop the group and gather some firewood, "Rae, take Jake to gather the firewood she needs. The rest of you scout for some food. This place looks as good as any to stop for the night and we all need some rest."
Rae rolled her eyes, but was secretly pleased when Jake walked with her to find some suitable wood. As Jake followed after Rae, for possibly the first time in his adult life, he couldn't think of anything to say. He always had a line or a flirtatious comment, but watching the lustrous black hair in front of him, he could barely remember his own name. Rae called back to him, "By the way…"
"Yes?"
Rae was glad she wasn't facing the blonde solider, "I don't think I ever properly thanked you for saving my life back at the castle."
"Not a problem," Jake said chivalrously.
Rae found herself uncharacteristically shy, "Well, I, I mean we, the duchesses, appreciate what you are trying to do."
"My pleasure," said Jake, enjoying the effect he was having on Duchess Rae of Ginzuberg.
Within a half hour, Rae and Jake had returned with wood and the rest of the group had found some fruit and mushrooms that would pass as dinner. Rae pointed her finger at the pile of wood and a fire instantly started.
Jake muttered under his breath, "Someday you're going to have to teach me that trick."
Rae grumbled right back, "I tried to…"
Jake and Rae shared an intense look and both had to turn away, smiling the same secret smile.
Amy looked curiously at both of them and questioned, "How is that possible? You only met a few days ago."
Rae said softly, "I think it was on the Moon."
Jake nodded.
There was a quiet moment. Malcolm nudged Rae, "Can you see anything?"
"Give me a moment."
The others tried to give her some privacy. Lita and Amy knew that Rae would sometimes take an entire afternoon to visit the shrine in the gardens at the castle. Jake lingered to watch her work. Rae closed her eyes and kneeled in front of the fire. She clasped her hands together and took a deep breath. Jake couldn't take his eyes off this fiery priestess in front of him. He remembered the day Rae had tried to teach him the fire lighting technique. It had ended…well; they had almost started a fire between the sheets that day.
Rae looked up from the flames, worried, "Everyone come here!"
The tone of her voice made everyone come running.
Mia was having a difficult time getting her mind to shut off. She was worried about Serena who had still not woken up yet. She was worried about her best friends who were going into certain danger. She was worried that she would never experience love like Malcolm's again. Mia looked down at the small pen in her hand. Somehow having it there gave her strength. Darien's voice woke her from her reverie, "I think we should try and wake Serena up."
Mia passed Serena to Darien's waiting arms and then slid off the horse herself. Darien set the Princess gently down on the forest floor. He shook her gently. Serena stirred, then sat up suddenly and shouted, "Mother!"
The Crystal flared with silver light. The Princess looked up at Darien and said, "I have to return to my country."
"No."
"No?!"
Mia tried to shrink; she didn't want to see what would happen when a Captain tried to cross a Princess. Especially this Princess. Serena didn't take well to not having her way. Especially when her mother or her country was involved.
"I have to."
Darien held up the crumpled paper, "But what about this letter? The Queen wrote it."
Serena looked up at the sky, her tears glowing in the moonlight, "My mother is no longer the Queen."
Like a bolt of lightning, Serena was hit with the realization that her childhood, like all of her friends, was over. Although the Crystal might be interesting, and certainly the thought of a previous life was curious, but this was a new world. She needed to make decisions that would protect her country and its way of life. There were sacrifices that needed to take place, and while the world might see a petite teenager, she would do what it would take to prove to them she was capable of much more.
Rae said sadly, "The Queen has been killed."
Everyone sat down hard. The repercussions - if the Queen was indeed dead - could be unbelievable. They hadn't heard anything from the outside world for at least a week. It was entirely possible Hitler could have taken drastic actions in a political move to draw other countries into the war. It also meant that the country of Ginzuberg was currently without a leader. The group knew that without the Princess or her court, the country had no regent…no hope, no protection.
Amy looked up and said what was on everyone's mind, "Serena is the Queen."
Darien looked at Serena. He asked softly, "I'm sorry for your loss, but don't you think she'd want to see her last wishes fulfilled? Serena, you have to survive - if not for...your friends, than for your mother's last wish!"
Mia was in shock, but not enough shock to do what she had been trained for her whole life, and answered coldly, "Captain Shields, you're speaking to the regent of Ginzuberg. If Serena wants to go to back to her country, she will."
Darien couldn't believe what was happening. He was always in control of situations and missions. Since arriving in this country, he had somehow lost this ability. Serena stood up, a new light in her eyes, "I have to protect my country."
Darien was skeptical, "And you're going to do that on your own? Ginzuberg has no standing army - just a small group of ceremonial soldiers - the Queen's Guard."
Serena looked up at Darien with her big blue eyes, and replied, "Come with me."
"Why?"
"To become king of Ginzuberg."
Mia could not believe what she had just heard. Did Serena just propose to Darien? A U.S. Captain who she had known all of a day? Furthermore, was Darien actually considering her offer?! She said haltingly, "Sere, are you sure you're okay? I mean, you have been passed out for the past hour or so, maybe we should talk this out. Maybe, you're in shock from our mother's passing..."
Serena looked up at her taller companion, "No, I'm thinking clearly."
Darien had similarly confusing thoughts. Five minutes ago, Serena had been a soft and beautiful woman in his arms. Now, she was the regent of an occupied country.
Although still pale, Serena flashed a hint of a smile as she watched Mia and Darien's faces. She spoke clearly, "Darien, please don't think of this as a love match or some fleeting romantic wartime fantasy. I'll be honest with you. I need you to strengthen my ties to the States. As you said, there is no way I can do this on my own. This is diplomacy - nothing more."
Somehow, her words rang false. Darien couldn't be entirely sure of what he saw in the crystal, but he understood his feelings. Like the proverbial punch to the gut, Darien had immediately felt protective and respsonsible for the Princess of Ginzuberg. Catching a glimpse of their former lives together had only intensified his feelings. However, why was she talking as if this was a business transaction? Did she not feel the same powerful feelings for him? Serena, who was surprised she had misjudged Darien's emotions, took the Captain's silence as something completely different, and said, "Okay, I get it, you don't want to be tied down or anything. I'll make a deal with you."
Darien heard himself saying, "Yes?"
"If and when this whole war thing ends, we'll divorce, and you can go back to the States. You won't inherit anything, because Ginzuberg's fortune passes solely to the females in the family, but I'll make sure you're adequately compensated."
Darien regained his voice and answered, "Okay, but I have a few conditions of my own."
Mia blurted out, "Okay?! As in 'okay, you might actually be considering this?'"
Serena looked surprised, she wasn't used to people making her concede anything. She asked coolly, "What would those be?"
"The story cannot get out that you…um…"
Mia was happy to fill in the word, "Proposed?"
Darien glared at Mia, "Yes, that you proposed to me."
"And why is that?"
Mia was curious, "Yes, why is that?"
"Well, the leaders of the world might see through Serena's ruse."
"Her what?"
"They might think she married me for…well, for exactly the same reasons she just mentioned."
Serena sighed, "And the opposite is also true. If you proposed to me, my country might just think you were trying to becoming King and somehow influence the country. They don't usually trust outsiders."
Mia sighed and spoke up, "I can't believe I'm actualy even thinking of helping you two with this plan, but I think the only thing to do here is act like this is a love match. We'll leak the story that Darien was sent to rescue Serena and didn't plan on falling in love during the mission. If you guys make goo goo eyes at each other and do the whole get married in secret lovey dovey thing, we might be able to convince the world that yours is a cause worth helping."
"The restoration of the Selene line to the throne of Ginzuberg?"
Mia laughed, "No silly. True Love. There is no more nobler cause."
Serena and Darien looked at each other. Serena said, one eyebrow raised, "Mia, are you sure you don't need to lay down and rest for awhile?"
Darien asked, "True love?"
Mia rolled her eyes, and, as any acting goddess of Love and Beauty would do, explained the situation, "Look, let's face it, the world isn't the same as when we grew up. Cities are being bombed, people are being killed, and Hitler is trying to exterminate an entire race of people. We need all the help we can get, and if the U.S. sees Darien looking dashing in his dress uniform marrying an equally ravishing Queen Serena in romantic Paris, that will be all the motivation they need to get off their asses and start helping! People may not be able to understand the politics behind it, but when they see the tiny, 'innocent' Mrs. Darien Shields, they will jump at the chance to help."
Serena thought a moment and looked at Darien, "She's got a point."
Darien looked at both blondes, "Well, obviously, it can't be Paris."
Mia looked upset. She wished it could be the City of Lights. In her mind, she and her fiancé (formerly a minor detail, now resembling a certain silver haired solider) would be married in secret in Paris before returning to Ginzuberg to have an elaborate reception.
Serena grasped the Crystal in her hands. She wondered aloud, "How about New York?"
Darien took a deep breath and replied, "Okay, sweetheart, let's get ourselves to the Big Apple."
Mia smiled at the "happy" couple, then said, "Wait a minute, what about the others? What will they do....now?"
Darien took Serena's hand comfortingly, and said, "I have a new mission for them."
Serena looked at her 'fiancé', and answered sweetly, "I hope it involves establishing some sort of underground resistance in Ginzuberg."
"Precisely what I was thinking, my dear."
Mia looked at the pair and asked, "How exactly are we going to get them that message?"
Serena looked around, "Morning Star. I think I can guide her through the Crystal."
Mia thought a moment, and stated, "I think we should regroup. I think it will be more romantic and we will make a more pathetic, 'help us' picture if it's just us girls and Darien in New York."
Darien nodded. As much as he would've like to have his men with him, they could sneak in undetected to the country and lay the groundwork while Serena, Darien and the girls were scouting for support and supplies in the States. Mia continued, "Also, the plan starts now."
Darien asked, "What do you mean?"
Mia sighed, "We need everyone to get behind this. Let's face it, there's already tension in the group. We are dealing with some very loyal people. We need them to think it's in the best interest for both of you."
Darien looked off into the forest, "I don't like it."
Serena nodded, but looked up at Darien, "I don't either, but Mia's right. We can't start out divided, can we 'honey'?"
"Lead on 'darling'." Although Darien didn't agree with going towards the enemy with his new fiancé, Serena seemed confident that she would be able to get them out of the country quickly. Three people traveling with a mission can make up some ground. Mia knew she should be exhausted, but gripping her pen, she wasn't aware of any pain.
As they walked Darien asked Serena, "You said the name 'Endymion' earlier? What did you mean by that?"
Serena shook her head, "I'm not sure."
Malcolm asked, "And you're sure?"
Rae nodded sadly, and said, "I can see black shadows in the flames of the burning sun. Sinister...almost like a prophecy."
Lita looked up into the trees, "They'll be coming for Serena."
Nick gazed at the tall brunette, "How can you be so sure?"
Amy looked into the fire, "Hitler and his generals have probably leaked some story to the world that the royalty of Ginzuberg is dead. They'll want to follow up and make sure that story is true."
Zach sighed and looked closely at Amy, "Do you think Serena knows?"
Rae nodded, "There was another energy in the fire. Serena's mother may be dead, but the current Queen of Ginzuberg has a completely different energy around her. She's on the move."
Malcolm took a deep breath, "No doubt they are coming to meet us. Well, let's make it easier on them and meet them halfway."
It was sunrise when Serena, Darien, and Mia met the rest of the group. Mia's heart soared when she saw Malcolm again. Having not seen a razor in a week or more, Malcolm had a silvery beard gracing his square jaw line. Mia ran up and straight into Malcolm's strong arms. Malcolm returned her embrace and tightened his arms around Mia small waist. It felt like she belonged there. No one noticed; the girls were too busy comforting Serena and the other soldiers were talking to Darien.
Mia traced her delicate finger along Malcolm's stubble and whispered, "I missed you."
Malcolm held her tighter, stopping just short of kissing her senseless.
Amy asked the new Queen, a loaded question in her voice, "Are you okay?"
Serena nodded, and responded steadily, "I am."
Rae asked, "What are we going to do now?"
Serena, Darien, and Mia shared a look. Darien nodded at Serena. The tiny blonde said, "I think you should all sit down for this."
The group found seats. Serena spoke clearly, "As you know, my mother is dead. I am now the Queen of Ginzuberg. I have decided it is in my best interest to--"
Darien interrupted, and taking Serena's hand said, "I've asked Serena to marry me."
Serena looked at Darien and responded, "And I said yes."
Malcolm sensed something wasn't right, "I don't want to sound, well, like the voice of reason, but are you sure you're not rushing into things?"
Mia looked at Malcolm, "Can't you see? They've fallen in love. You can't pick when or who you fall in love with. In the middle of all that's going on, I'm glad there's something we can be happy about."
Malcolm looked directly into Mia's blue eyes, "I know."
Serena continued, "We've decided it would be best to get married in the States."
Darien clasped Serena's hand tightly, and looked at each of his men, "What I'm about to ask you guys is something I'm asking you as a friend, not as a Captain. I have to go to the States alone. As much as I would like you each by my side, I need you to go into Ginzuberg and…"
Jake finished his sentence, "Start securing the country?"
Darien smiled, "I knew you'd understand."
Rae asked, "And what exactly will we do? It's our country too."
Serena said, "The Nazis know your faces and will be looking for. After all, you're the next in line to the throne. You girls will accompany me to the States. We will be safer and more effective there."
Amy looked up sadly, "We're leaving Ginzuberg?"
Zach put his arm around her, "Don't worry, we'll keep it safe for you."
Mia had not broken eye contact with Malcolm, "Darien will give you the letter from the Queen. You can use it as a safe passage into the castle. Go to Art, he was one of the Queen's advisors and tell him who sent you. He will help you start organizing things."
Jake looked at Darien, "You know, I always thought I would be there for your wedding day."
The other men nodded, agreeing. Darien shook his head sadly. He wished that too. Mia looked around, "Well, what are we waiting for?"
Everyone looked at her strangely and the young woman continued, "It may not be binding, but I think Darien's men have every right to be at their friend's wedding."
Rae caught on, "What are we waiting for?"
Nick picked up on things, and declared, "I've seen it done a few times. I'll officiate."
Serena smiled, and with tears in her eyes said, "Mia, will you be my maid of honor?"
Mia smiled the same smile, with shining tears of her own, "I'd be happy to!"
Darien looked at Malcolm, who nodded smiling at his Captain, an unspoken agreement that Malcolm would serve as Best Man.
In a matter of minutes the group had assembled and the impromptu wedding had begun. Amy had gathered flowers and Lita had escorted Serena down the "aisle." Nick, with as much importance as he could muster, began the ceremony. Mia looked up and saw that Malcolm was staring at her. She blushed, but listened to the vows as she looked at him. Nick was coming up on the part when he would tell Darien to kiss his bride, when Serena realized it would be her very first kiss with her "husband." Although this wedding was in no way binding, Serena felt butterflies in her stomach. She looked back at her friends, who by now, all had tears running down their faces.
"…you may now kiss the bride."
Darien leaned down and softly kissed Serena on the lips. In that moment, the Crystal flared silver. There was a blinding light and the remaining memories of their past lives shot through the Senshi and Shitennou. For what seemed like millennia, no one could speak. The collective events of what happened on the Moon so many years ago was a lot to process. Not only did the group have to come to terms with what had happened in the past, they had to somehow merge their past selves with their present ones.
Darien uttered, "I was reborn here...to meet you again...Serenity."
"Endymion!"
Slowly, each of the young men and women bowed low before their former regents.
Mia whispered, "And so, our true Princess is... We were reborn here to protect the Princess."
Malcolm stated heavily, "We are reincarnated to search for our master and Prince...Endymion."
Serena looked unbelieving at Darien, "I remember now, all about you...Endymion, my dearly beloved. You were the first royal Prince of the Earth. There was no one greater or stronger. I remember the happy times we had before we were reborn - when the earth was still one nation and the Moon was still one kingdom as well. I am the Silver Millenium's last heir, Princess Serenity."
Mia looked directly at Malcolm, and asked with a wavering voice, "How could you?"
Malcolm looked at the other men, before answering, "We didn't."
"Then who was out there on the battlefield, your evil twins?" Rae spat.
Zach tried to explain, "It was right before the wedding—"
Pictures began to flash through the mind of the Shitennou. Images of Endymion fallen and bleeding, horrific scenes of their senshi, the Moon Kingdom and Earth in total chaos. In short, everything they had worked for was going to be just a very distant memory.
"This is what is going to happen if you don't submit to me. Your Prince, fallen and dead, your beautiful senshi tortured and raped before being killed slowly. Both kingdoms in flames and ruin. It's your choice Shitennou. Give me your energy, your minds, or see this future become reality!"
The men, even in their trance, reached out to draw strength from each other. They desperately wrestled to get control of their minds. Yet, the answer had already been given from deep in their subconscious. Yes…the Shitennou were men of honor and would give their lives for those they loved, even if it meant their own deaths. The Darkness grinned, it was merely a matter of time, until their minds, their souls would belong to the Dark Kingdom!
"See your new Queen!"
A red haired woman in a flowing purple dress grinned evilly at them.
Nick looked sadly at Lita, "It was only in the moment of our deaths that we realized what we had done. We failed the Prince."
Jake finished his thought, "In our dying breaths, there wasn't enough time to explain."
Rae was still outraged, "So we died at the hands of you, our husbands, and went to our own deaths thinking we had been betrayed."
Serena looked at all of them, "It was a cruel fate."
In their own revelations, everyone had forgotten what had happened to their Prince and Princess, the two people they were supposed to protect above all others – including their own lives. The famed Senshi and Shitennou had not fulfilled their duties.
Serena continued, "That's why my mother sent us here, to the future, so that we might get another chance."
Amy looked wide-eyed, "Then the fairytale was true!"
Zach looked at his former love, he was so lucky to have found her in this life, and if it meant a lifetime of making up to her what had happened on the Moon, he would. He asked to no one in particular, "But why now?"
Mina looked off into the distance; "The Prince and Princess have been reunited…how appropriate that it is on Earth."
That inside joke got a chuckle out of Serena and Darien, and even Malcolm cracked a smiled. The royalty's courtship had taken off, when Serena, no, Princess Serenity, had been sent to the Earth for safeguard while the senshi had made sure the Moon was safe. Jake asked, "So what now?"
Rae scoffed, "What do you mean? We go ahead with the plan as scheduled. We've got to get Queen Serena to safety."
Serena looked at her now husband, "Well, considering the circumstances…"
Mia caught on, "No. No way, Serena. We don't know if these powers we have are going to last or even where they came from. We don't live on the Moon any longer, we live on Earth and you are the Queen of a country in the twentieth century."
Serena looked royally pissed off, but her advisors were doing exactly what they were supposed to do. Amy nodded, agreeing with Mia and Rae, "Serena, you don't know the power of the Crystal yet or how to use it. What if you accidentally cause more trouble? Let the Shitennou go in the country first. There are many ways of helping Ginzuberg."
The word had slipped out before Amy had even realized it.
Malcolm walked over and took a knee before Darien and Serena, "Please go to safety, Prince and Princess. Let us try and right the wrong we were responsible for in our past lives."
The other men followed. The soldiers were still trying to come to terms with what had happened…they felt doubly terrible. Not only had they been the cause of the death of their former loves, but also hadn't been there to protect their Prince from his death.
Darien looked down at his four generals. He had always felt an unexplainable brotherhood and kinship with his men and now knew that it went further than serving together. How cruel a fate that he would have to part from his most trusted friends now, after they had only really found each other. He knew he and Serena would be safer in the States, but still hated leaving his newly reunited team.
It was sensitive Zach who spoke for all of them, "We will meet again."
Amy tried to choke back a sob, "In this life?"
Serena took a calming breath, "We have to part company. No doubt the Nazis are trying to locate all of us. I know it's not much, but I'll give you each five minutes before we leave."
Malcolm didn't want to waste any time…too much had passed already; he grabbed Mia's hand and led her behind a tree. There was something about knowing his past that clarified things. Mia's hand raised itself, almost unconsciously to Malcolm's face, "You look so different without long hair, but I still should have recognized you…Kunzite."
Malcolm got down on one knee in front of the blonde duchess. He reached out for her hand, "Mia…my Mina...I'm so sorry."
"I know. I am too."
"I—what? Why are you sorry?"
"Malcolm, we killed each other. There were two people there that day. Given the circumstances, you did what you had to do. I would have done the same."
Malcolm couldn't believe the poise Mia was showing. Others may describe her as blonde and ditsy, but Malcolm knew underneath it all, Mia's heart beat with the strength of a true warrior. He said, "Promise me something."
Mia was already tearing up. She'd had enough goodbyes this week to last her entire life. She answered in a wavery voice, "Yes?"
"Wait for me."
"What do you mean?"
"When all this is over, I want you by my side…permanently."
"That depends on who you are asking. Is it Princess Mina, Sailor Venus, or Mia?"
"Mia…just Mia, no titles, no past. Just the girl who I landed on in the middle of the night."
Mia got on her knees and joined Malcolm in a kiss that answered his question.
If the others were surprised at the speed with which the normally stoic Malcolm had left the scene, they didn't let on. Jake followed Malcolm's lead and grabbed Rae's delicate hand.
"But—"
"Let me talk first, firefly."
Rae grumpily nodded, but raised her amethyst eyes to meet his blue ones.
"There are no words for me to express how sorry I am for what happened in the past."
"That's for sure…"
"I thought we agreed I would talk first?"
"You decided—"
Jake put a finger on Rae's red lips, "Listen, Rae. A man learns a few things running around the forest with Nazis chasing him. I know we haven't had a lot of time to get to know each other, but I was hoping…"
Rae asked softly, "Yes?"
"I know we haven't had a lot of time together in this life, but if you can find it in your heart, wait for me."
Rae smiled, this was territory she knew, "What do you mean?"
Jake sighed, and remembered one of the things he loved so much about his fiery Princess, she challenged him in ways no other woman did. He took a deep breath, "I know when you go to the States, men will be following you everywhere. But, will you wait for me and be my sweetheart?"
Rae knew what he was asking, "I will on one condition…"
"Anything."
"I ask the same of you. Be faithful to me."
Jake swept Rae up in a searing kiss that would give them both something to remember in the weeks ahead.
Zach walked away from Darien and Serena. He didn't have the same confidence that the other men had…especially when it came to the beautiful and intelligent Amy. He looked over his shoulder and locked with two sad sapphire eyes. He took a deep breath and held out his hand…Amy got up and took it.
They walked in silence for a few moments.
Zach was more tongue tied than usual, he found the silence growing longer and longer. He took a breath and asked, "So, what do you think the Crystal is made of?"
Amy looked at him strangely; obviously, she had been expecting something different to come out of his mouth, "I'm not sure. I'm hoping Darien can arrange a lab for me to study it in."
Zach could hear the seconds ticking away. He blurted out, "There are some good things about our memories."
"Such as?"
"Do you remember how we met?"
Amy smiled shyly, "In the library."
Zach rubbed his hair, "You know…"
"Yes?"
"Maybe when this is all over, you can show me Ginzuberg's library."
"I'd like that."
For two such intelligent people, not many words had to be said. They each understood what the other was saying, without saying a word at all.
Lita left the clearing muttering something about ex-boyfriends. Nick had no choice but to run after her. He got close enough and grabbed her arm. The tall brunette spun around and looked down.
"Up here."
Lita had gotten so used to looking at down at people when she was talking to them, it was weird to lift her eyes and look up. With her long fingers she wrapped one hand around the collar of his now tattered uniform.
"I liked you better with long hair."
"Tell me about it. I almost didn't recognize Malcolm and myself… Do you still cook?"
Lita said, "Maybe."
"I would do anything for one of your pastries."
"What makes you so sure that's my specialty?"
His dark brown eyes locked with her emerald green ones and said seriously, "Some things never change."
Darien looked down at his new bride, "Serenity…"
Serena couldn't hide her feelings any longer, "Endymion!"
Their embrace was one of the sweetest she had ever known. Daren laughed into her pale blonde hair.
Serena looked up at him, "What?"
"Still sure this isn't a love match?"
Serena giggled as he swept her up in a circle.
Five minutes passed by too quickly – the couples made their way slowly back to Serena and Darien. Serena looked at her friends, "It's time to transform."
The girls nodded, they knew why.
Holding aloft their pens, they shouted:
"Venus Power!"
"Mars Power!"
"Jupiter Power!"
"Mercury Power!"
The transformations started, and the former Shitennou could only look on in amazement. In their former lives, only Kunzite had been fortunate enough to glimpse his senshi's transformation. Within a minute, all of the girls were clad in their revealing fuku. The girls shared a grin. Serena glowed silver and was wearing her Silver Millennium dress. The girls formed a circle around Darien and linked hands.
Darien looked at his men, "Guard the country, and yourselves. We'll see you soon!"
Their Captain nodded at Serena, who nodded at the girls, "Alright, let's all concentrate on the same place."
Well traveled young women, Serena and her court had traveled to New York on a number of occasions. Serena always made sure the trip included a visit to the Statue of Liberty. The Princess claimed she always felt safe under the towering female representation of safety and liberty. With one voice they shouted out, "Sailor Transport Power!"
Their circle glowed and they were gone, leaving the Shitennou alone again.
AN: As always, I LOVE hearing your thoughts – please review!