AN: I do not own the characters.

Chapter 8: Captured!

As Art and Jake rushed from the room on their way to extract Rae and whoever else was at the brothel, Zach, Nick, Amy and Lita quickly invented excuses to leave the room as well. Nick winked as he closed the door quietly behind him and smirked, "Play nice, you two. Save your energy for killing Nazi soldiers, not each other."

Malcolm was the first to comment, "He's right, you know."

Mia looked at the tall man in front of her, "I guess."

"So where does that leave us?"

"Why did you come after me?"

"Answer my question first."

"I don't know."

"Well, I don't know either then."

Both leaders crossed their arms.

Way to go, Miss Senshi of Love. What are you waiting for? Do you think you're going to wake up tomorrow and the world will go back to the way it was? Because it's not. In another lifetime, you promised, for better or worse.

Mia walked across the room and tentatively put her head on Malcolm's broad shoulder, who instantly wrapped her up in a strong hug. The Venusian senshi sighed, "We do better when we don't talk."

Malcolm laughed and Mia could hear the rumble deep in his chest. He began to stroke her hair, "I just couldn't stand the thought of you…" He tried again, "Imagine if you walked on me and some other woman."

"I'd kill her." The response was instant.

Malcolm laughed again, "See what I mean."

Not making direct eye contact, Mia grumbled, "For the record I'm glad you were there."

"You have a weird way of showing your appreciation."

"Will this work instead?"

Mia looked and up and put her hands on either side of Malcolm's face, bringing his mouth down to meet hers. More than a few minutes later, Malcolm opened his eyes and brushed his thumb across Mia's now swollen lips. He planted a kiss on her nose before saying, "From now on, let's make decisions together."

Mia answered strangely, "They're here."

Rae and Jake burst through the door, with an additional four young women following them. The American soldier commented brusquely, "Your 'refugees.' Art is currently providing, ahem, a tour of our property for our remaining guest."

The group fell into the room, and the tension level increased dramatically. Mia recognized them as the women from the brothel the evening before. She locked eyes with the women, Uranus, who had helped her.

Something's changed…

The tall woman spoke, "Feeling better?"

Mia willed her cheeks not to redden, "Much."

"I believe you have something of ours," Uranus said in a clipped voice.

Mia dipped her head slightly and said coolly, "This way."

The group went to the kitchen. Mia lifted her arm and pointed, "If they are, as you claim, yours, I'm sure you'll have no trouble finding them"

Each of the four women moved as if in a trance, drawn towards something within. Amy, Lita, and Rae, who had followed behind Mia looked at her questioningly. She told them quietly, "I know you might think I'm crazy, but I believe these women can help us save the country."

They looked back in the room, where the women had indeed each found one of the objects and was staring at them intently. Lita said gently to the quartet, "You're with friends now. Come upstairs and let me show you where you can rest."

They nodded, following the tall brunette and clasping their newly found objects. She led them to the upstairs bedroom and said, "We'll try and answer your questions as soon as we have the answers."

On her way back down the hall she ran into Nick's imposing figure and asked, "Can you make sure no one comes out of that room?"

"Anything," he added softly, "For you."

In the kitchen, Rae told Mia, "I need to do a fire reading. Maybe I can find something out about our new guests."

Drawing together what they could, they soon had a decent fire going in the kitchen. Rae peered into the flames intently. She closed her eyes for a long time and whispered various incantations and mysterious phrases. When she finally opened them, Mia asked, "What did you learn?"

"They are with us."

"Explain 'with us'?" Amy asked, ever curious.

"We are on the same side."

Mia let out an exasperated laugh, "Of course we are. I didn't think they were Nazis."

Rae blinked her eyes and responded slowly, "It's different. They have had different lives, similiar to ours."

Entering the small kitchen, Lita asked, "Do you think they are from the Silver Millenium?"

Rae answered solemnly, "It's possible."

Amy placed a hand on Mia's arm, "You said yourself there might be Outer Scouts."

Mia had to hold down her voice, "But how would we not have known about them? I thought we recovered all our memories!"

Lita said glumly, "I hate to say it, but I think that's a question for Serena. She has been the key to our past lives the entire time."

Rae looked into the fire again and, after a few moments, jumped back and was breathing heavily. Mia put an arm around her, "What did you see now? Is Serena okay?"

Rae's eyes were wide, "It wasn't Serena…it was the Generals."

Mia, Lita, and Amy shared a look. Amy took a deep breath and said, "There's something else we have to tell you about."

Across the Atlantic Ocean, Serena stood on the balcony overlooking the Shields estate. Serena looked up at the moon.

Mother…what would you have me do? How do I save my country? Tell me please, I don't want a repeat of my last life!

Darien silently joined her and put his arms around his young wife. He asked, "What's wrong?"

Serena looked up at her husband, "I don't know what to do."

He rubbed her arms, "We're doing all we can - some things take time."

Serena walked away from him, "That's not it."

For days, Serena's recent transformation replayed through her head. In all her life on the Moon she had always looked on enviously, as Mia and the girls had trained and honed their skills. She had been instructed in some forms of combat, but never on the level the senshi were.

How do I change back to her?

Darien's voice returned her to the present, "You're not worried about meeting with FDR, are you?"

They had finally received confirmation that a meeting would take place in the near future. After a brief honeymoon to Niagara Falls, they had returned to get word the President would see the young regent.

"That's not it." How could she explain what she was going through? In their previous life, Darien...Endymion...had died protecting her while she looked on, helpless to do anything. The appearance of the jewel and the strange fuku of her own made her feel truly empowered - that there was a chance she would be able to make a difference this time around.

Darien looked concerned, "Then what is it?"

Serena smiled. She hated keeping things from Darien, but Sailor Moon was someone she needed to get to know a little better before telling him. Changing the subject, she commented happily, "Everyone's together."

"The shitennou have found their senshi?"

Serena nodded, then narrowed her eyes and grasped the Crystal in her hand, "Yes, they have, but it feels like there are some others involved as well."

"Are they good or bad?"

"Both…neither. I wish we were there."

Darien gripped the railing, flexing his arms, "I do too. It doesn't feel right to be here when I know how much they are doing there."

Tell him now, Serena…the only thing that's holding him here is his concern for you. If he knew about Sailor Moon…

Let me train awhile and get used to my new powers. I can't rush over there and endanger everything.

The longer you wait…

Serena could sense Darien's frustration. She hugged him from behind, "We need to be patient a little while longer."

Haruka was holding the fierce looking blade in her hand. She stood up suddenly. Michiru put a comforting hand on her arm, "What's wrong?"

"How is it that I've never held this sword in my life, let alone any sword, yet now I feel as if my life is complete by having it?"

Mirchiru clasped the mirror to her chest, "I know what you mean."

The mirror began to glow…an ethereal white, then mystic blue, and a scene appeared in the reflective glass...

The day of the wedding dawned glorious. A light breeze blew over the shining satellite. Serenity had decided the Coronation Hall as the perfect place for the big wedding. Pink and white roses lined the walls. Light streamed in from open windows in the Hall. Everything was in place. Dignitaries from the entire Universe had come, including the outer Senshi, who arrived early that morning. The Inners had hugged their fellow senshi tight - it was a great reunion. In fact, it was none other than Setsuna who would perform the ceremony. The mysterious keeper of Time had insisted on the honor, as she also knew the unique martial customs of each planet. The majority of the nuptials would be similar, but each girl had something to make her part of the ceremony unique to her planet and customs. From Neptune, Michiru had brought her violin to serenade the group with her beautiful, enchanting music.

Setsuna asked softly, "When was that?"

Haruka commented, " We've met a version of everyone in that vision except the one young woman."

Hotaru said seriously, "The Crown Princess."

Michiru finished her statement, "Of Ginzuberg..."

The next day, Serena and Darien were attending a military ball. Serena was chatting with some of the other officer's wives. Her hand kept straying to the crystal broach at her neck. Darien was speaking with one of his superiors, and the older man commented, "That's a pretty piece of jewelry. A Shield's family heirloom?"

Darien tensed slightly and then answered casually, "Yes…my mother gave it to Serena as a wedding present."

"Very interesting…a diamond?"

Darien laughed, "Not quite sure. I just know it's expensive!"

The commanding officer joined Darien in a loud burst of nervous laughter. While the man took his leave, Jonathan Shields approached his son. The older man had felt compelled to go to Darien, propelled by something he could not define.

"Can I have a moment with you?"

"Sure, Dad."

They took their drinks to a secluded hallway and Jonathan produced a small box. It looked like an antique. He handed to Darien, who accepted it carefully. He asked, "What is this?"

"I don't know."

Darien raised an eyebrow, "You want to give me something, but you don't know what it is?"

"I know it sounds strange, but I think I was meant to give it to you."

Darien rattled the box lightly, "What's inside?"

"I've never opened it."

"Curiouser, and curiouser," his son commented. "Should I open it?"

"Yes."

Darien carefully unhinged the delicate lock and took a deep breath. Both been looked intently as Darien opened the box. Inside, glowing with a strange light, rested four delicate stones. The former earth Prince knew instantly what they were. They were rare stones, not jewels... When would he use them? What was their purpose? Sealing the box, the wrapped his fingers around it and took strength from the inanimate object.

"Thank you," Darien said solemly.

Jonathan clapped a hand on his son's back, "I just hope there is a purpose for them."

Inside the occupied Palace, the platinum haired general summoned the other members of his staff. He addressed them gruffly, "We have a problem."

A soldier with long brown haired asked, "What is it, sir?"

For a long time, he didn't speak. When he did, it was in a voice his officers had never heard him use before. He stated curiously, "Somehow, I have been cloned."

The man with long blonde hair questioned, obvious doubt in his voice, "Cloned?"

His grey eyes flashed and he growled, "I think we may have underestimated our enemy."

Like many of her nights in Ginzuberg, it sometimes took Serena awhile to wind down after a big party. She brushed her long hair and looked fondly at the moonlight that caressed her sleeping husband's face. Feeling motivated, she snuck out of the room in search of a place to begin some much needed practice. Serena had to admit to herself that she felt a bit foolish as she wandered into the expansive gardens on the Shields estate.

What am I doing here? What if that form was just a hallucination?

A powerful voice answered her question; I guess there's only one way to find out.

Still feeling slightly anxious, Serena held her hand above her head, watching for a moment as the Crystal sparkled in the moonlight and shouted, "Moon Crystal power!" as she had seen her senshi do many times before…the only difference was this time she went through a glowing transformation of her own.

The Queen of Ginzuberg looked down at herself proudly…she had fuku of her own, which included knee high red boots and a golden tiara.

I wonder what my power is…or if I have any…

Serena wished she had some precedent to go on, some former memory she could use, but no words came to mind. Mia and the rest of the girls had their former attacks to shout, but the young regent found herself uncharacteristically speechless. Then, through the trees she heard the words whispered

...Moon tiara magic…

Serena yelled hesitantly, "Moon tiara magic!"

As she said the words the disc from her head spun in her hand and whooshed out through the forest, slicing through branches and trees.

Did I do that?

Sure looks that way.

Shouldn't you try it again to make sure it wasn't just a fluke?

Serena smiled and said, with more confidence this time, "Moon tiara magic!"

The tiara flashed brightly and flew out into the night.

Serena yawned, not too bad for a night's work. I bet the girls would be proud!

Serena grasped the Crystal closely and detransformed. Intent on making her way back towards the Shields mansion for a much needed shower. There was a rustle of branches and suddenly, out of nowhere, someone came up and snatched her. As rough hands grabbed her, Serena instinctively reached for her brooch, clawing and kicking at her attackers. Almost as soon as she did, another, equally rough hand, pried her hands from it and ripped it from her blouse. The moment the brooch was separated from its rightful owner, it flared a brilliant silver and Serena passed out, unaware who had her or their destination.

At the exact moment Serena was separated from the Crystal, the former Outer scouts felt a warm sensation and their fukus appeared. The Inner Scouts pens flared and they transformed as well. Venus looked at the group, "Serena!"

Mercury looked back at her blonde friend, "The mirror…."

The Inner senshi bolted upstairs. Images quickly flashed through her head and they remembered…the four scouts whose entire mission was to protect the Silver Millennium from the furthest corners of the galaxy. As they entered, Neptune looked around the room and stated, "I can see her."

The brilliant mirror, not of this world, flared silver, and each of the senshi crowded around to see where their Queen was. The image wasn't very clear, but they could see camouflaged men escorting her away, roughly. As there were no distinguishing or defining landmarks, it was impossible to see where Serena was or the identities of those who had taken her.

Venus whispered, "They've separated her from the Crystal."

The senshi were not the only ones awoken. Inside the Shields mansion, Darien went through a transformation of his own. Looking down at himself, he didn't see the distinguished armor that he wore as a Terran prince, but instead a sharp looking tuxedo, complete with mask, top hat, and cane. Looking at himself in the mirror, he was confused, but not for long. He looked back at the bed and saw the petite form that usually slept right next to him was missing. Concentrating fiercely, he was able to return to his regular self, then immediately ran outside, rousing the entire household as he did.

When Eleanor and Jonathan Shields found their son, he looked completely devastated. Eleanor asked, "What's wrong?"

Darien looked up. He was holding a few long, silvery strands in his fingers, "They've taken her."

Jonathan put his hand on his son's shoulder and said resolutely, "We'll find her."

Darien stood up, his dark eyes glittering, "Search the grounds to see if you can find any trace of her."

Eleanor said, "Dear, don't you think we should call the police?"

Darien shook his head, "You can try, but I don't think they'll be that great a help. Go to the press. Immediately. I want Serena's picture splashed on every cover of every newspaper tomorrow."

Jonathan asked grimly, "Who do you suspect?"

Darien sighed, "I'm not sure who I can trust now."

Then he abruptly took off for the house, calling over his shoulder, "I'm going to Washington and no one in hell can stop me."

The gathered senshi looked at each other as the mystical mirror went dark.

Uranus said, "We had no idea. How long have you been in these forms?"

Venus looked thoughtfully across to the taller woman and admitted, "It happened when Ginzuberg was taken over…when Serena was in danger."

Mercury opened her mouth to attempt an explanation, then walked over to her bag and pulled out the worn copy of the book. She flipped to the page and showed the other women in the room, "We believe that we are all descended or reincarnated versions of warriors from a former kingdom that lived on the moon."

Venus picked up the story, "There's a reason why these particular weapons appeal to you." The blonde cracked the chain around her waist wickedly, "No doubt you'll recognize a series or words or phrase that will activate these talismans."

Pluto asked guardedly, "Let's say we buy this story. Who is the young woman we saw in the mirror?"

Lita's green eyes sparkled animatedly, "You probably know her as Crown Princess Serena of Ginzuberg. She is that person, but she is also the former Princess Serena of the Silver Millennium, the kingdom Mercury was telling you about."

Uranus made a fist, "Why do I feel so angry to see her being taken away?"

Mercury said, "She is who we fight for. It is our duty to protect her."

A tear slipped down Venus's cheek, "We were unable to protect her in our former life. It is our hope today that she survive and become a great regent in this time."

Petite Hotaru asked, "What do we have to do?"

As Darien zoomed through the night he wished again that his men were here with him. With the loss of Serena, he felt utterly alone. From within him he heard a voice answer, you're a Prince, not a weakling.

Who are you?

Prince Endymion…Tuxedo Mask. We are more than Darien Shields.

Darien blanched for a moment. He knew the name Endymion and the memories that came with that particular life. The name Tuxedo Mask was completely foreign…he thought back to what had happened earlier in the night, the image of himself resplendent in a killer tuxedo complete with mask.

He's finally getting it…

Finally getting what?

In order to defeat the evil you will face, you need more than the skills you have.

The Army's training isn't enough?

No.

What's my next move then?

Your current move will be progress enough, but be prepared that you may have to make things happen on your own. There is an evil present is bigger than Hitler...it will take more than the largest weapon any military has access to.

Darien considered the information and was struck by the gravity of the situtation. He was the guardian of the planet and would protect it against anything. This future would have a happy ending.

Serena woke up, completely disoriented. She was blindfolded, but could hear unmistakably German accents speaking in the distance. As she rocked gently, the sound of waves splashing somewhere and the dull drone of an engine alerted her to the fact that she was most likely on a ship. Tears silently flowed down her face. She knew she was separated from the jewel.

Without it, I can't transform…without it, how will anyone find me?

Be strong, Serena. Have faith in those that love and protect you.

Who's there?

Sailor Moon. Princess Serenity. We're not about to let what happened last time happen again.

But Darien…

Will come for you.

Serena was quiet with that information and tried to listen in on the conversation happening near her. She spoke perfect German, but couldn't hear all the words. The most she could understand was they were pressured to do some kind of experiment, possibly involving the jewel.

The collected senshi, still in their eye-catching fukus, had gathered the former Shitennou to fill them in on what had addressed everyone, "As far as we know, Serena has been captured."

Malcolm asked, "And what of Darien? Something had to have happened to him. He wouldn't willingly let Serena be captured."

Mars flushed and explained, "Serena can be…headstrong. She can get an idea in her head and not consider her safety."

Mercury said seriously, "Wherever she was, we cannot identify the nationality of those who took her captive."

Neptune pulled out the mirror, and said, "I consulted this talisman recently. Queen Serena is on a boat, that is all we know."

Nick spoke up, "That could imply the Nazis."

Venus crossed her arms, "But we can't rule out your government either."

Malcolm rolled his eyes, "You've got to be kidding. We're your allies!"

Jupiter said calmly, "We know that you are. However, we are not sure what other governments would do to get access to the Crystal."

Jake burst out, "Darien would've told us if that was our objective. So, I think we can rule out the Yanks."

A cold silence filled the room.

The usually cool Malcolm made a fist and punched the table, "This whole situation is ridiculous!"

Uranus spoke up, "Alright, let's look at this thing logically. Using Neptune's mirror, we should pool our collective wisdom and keep a watch to see when she arrives on shore. They can't stay at sea forever. I'm sure between all of us; we can recognize a distinguishing feature of a coastline."

Venus nodded and continued, "Once we recognize the location, a small team needs to be sent to extract Serena and get her to safety."

Zack sighed, "I wish there was some way to get Darien here."

Mercury looked around the room, her intelligent eyes taking in the group, "There might be a way."

Venus shook her head, "No way. It's too risky. The Outers haven't even been tested yet or practiced their powers. We could be setting up ourselves for a major failure."

Malcolm put his arm around Venus, "Or we could help reunite Endymion and Serenity."

Uranus growled, "And why don't you let us decide whose powerful enough?"

Venus nodded seriously, "It's worth a try."

The eight women joined hands, and bright and vibrant colors flared around each of them. Venus nodded at all of them, and said, "Concentrate your power and energy. You know the words - on the count of 3. 1...2...3..."

"SAILOR TRANSPORT POWER!!"

Darien made record time hurtling south on his Triumph motorcycle towards Washington. As if spurred on by the supernatural, he roared up to the gates of the White House and prayed the President wasn't in Warm Springs. The guards at the gate stopped Darien and asked, "Your business?"

"I need to see Franklin." He had been on a first name basis with the current leader of the U.S. since his graduation from West Point a few years back. His father had been friends with leaders from all industries and across the political spectrum and introduced his son t an early age. The authority in his voice alerted the two guards that there was a serious matter to be discussed.

"We'll see if he's available."

Darien waited patiently and a few minutes later, the gate went up and the guard said, "You've been expected - he'll meet you in the Library."

The new co-regent of Ginzuberg raked a hand through his hair and hesitated - wondering if he should've taken a few moments to clean up. Attempting to calm himself, he squeezed the box his father had given him, and felt better. The stones, resting comfortably, gave him a sense of peace.

"Darien? Or should I call you King Darien and bow?"

"None of that. I'm still the same guy."

One of the president's bodyguards wheeled the aging man in, and took a post at the door. Lighting a cigar, the older man puffed for a moment, then asked, "So, why are you here, m'boy?"

"It's Serena..." Darien's voice cracked, and he was embarassed. He cleared his throat and continued, "Something's happened to her. She's disappeared. I have no choice but to suspect the worst."

"You're sure?"

"Mr. President, on behalf of Ginzuberg, I simply must beg the support of the U.S. If we had the backing of the military..."

"It's more complicated than that."

Darien gritted his jaw and said, "You don't think I don't know that?! I've been in Europe for the past month - I've seen firsthand just how 'complicated' things can be. We sit over here, protected and safe, while the rest of the world suffers!"

FDR's eyes widened. Captain Shields sat down heavily and apologized, "I'm sorry, it's just...Serena. She's means everything to me."

"I can't. Unless you have concrete evidence that the Germans are behind this, or..."

"The jewel?"

"Yes. From the reports I've read - that artefact must absolutely not get into the wrong hands."

Darien heistated for a long moment - even though he trusted the President, he remembered what the Prince had told him...there were bigger forces at play.

"I'll do it on my own then," Darien narrowed his eyes, grabbed his leather jacket, and headed towards the door. The President sighed deeply. However, there were too many forces at play - as much as he wanted to make a commitment, he couldn't.

"Darien - wait."

"What?"

"I'll give you my best offer. I'll send word to the Navy. I will put them on highest alert. If what you say is true, then they've no doubt sent Serena to Germany. She's proabably in the middle of the Atlantic. If she is caught, then we can discuss next steps."

"It's appreciated, sir."

"Best of luck, young Shields."

"Thank you, Mr. President."

Clipping from the New York Times:

Upstate New York: Army Captain and recent newlywed Darien Shields was horrified to wake up during the night and find his bride, Queen Serena I of Ginzuberg, had disappeared without a trace. After questioning everyone on the Shields staff and thoroughly looking over the entire estate, there was still no sign of the diminutive Queen. Serena's in-laws join their son and have released the following statement: "We pray for Serena's safe return. Anyone who has information regarding the whereabouts of the Queen, please come forward." They added that a cash reward would be given for any information leading to the safe return of Serena. Local authorities do not suspect any foul play and join the Shields family in the search for the visiting dignitary.

Jonathan folded the paper and looked across to Eleanor, "Do you think it will work?"

At that moment, one of the maids entered the breakfast room and announced, "The phone has been ringing constantly this morning. I have over 50 messages for potential leads on where the younger Mrs. Shields whereabouts."

Eleanor smiled and placed her hand over her husband's. She looked at the maid and replied, "Mary, please prepare our things and ready the New York penthouse. We won't be able to accomplish anything from out here."

Darien drove aimlessly...angry, upset, and not wanting to return home. There was nothing left for him staeside - Serena wasn't there and the real trouble lay across the waters. He suddenly felt a pulse, then an incredible urge to return to where they had first made contact in the country. Nearing Battery Park, Darien quickly made a phone call while he waited for the ferry to Liberty Island. He was directed to the private line of the Shields' townhouse in the city.

"Mom?"

"Yes, darling?"

"I'm going to leave."

"Do you know where Serena is?" Eleanor couldn't keep the hope out of her voice.

"I think I know where she's gone. Please don't worry about me. I will try to get word to you of my safety."

Eleanor sighed, "I guess you know best, son."

"Can you put Dad on the phone?"

"Sure. I love you."

Darien's smiled, glad for the one constant in his life, the love and support of his parents, "Dad?"

"What is it, son?"

"I'm going away. Can you watch my bike?"

Jonathan heard what Darien was not saying. 'Can you watch my bike?' was predetermined code. When Darien had entered the armed services, he and his father knew a day might come when, given their connections and influence, Darien might need help or assistance. In this case, Jonathan understood Darien suspected the line they were speaking on was not secure and couldn't give specific information of his whereabouts.

"Yes, son, I can watch your precious bike. Please be safe and we'll do our best to find that daughter-in-law of ours."

Darien did his best to keep his voice light, "I'm sure she'll turn up…probably shopping on 5th Avenue and not even realized the trouble she's caused."

"Let's hope so."

"I'll talk to you soon."

"I'm counting on it."

With the women's power fading from the room, Malcolm addressed the other men, "While the girls are gone, we're going to make room in this place for the entire team. Jake, I want you and Zach to add bunks to each of the rooms. Quarters will be tight and I think for now, we should separate the men and women. We don't need any complications or distractions."

Jake and Zach nodded.

"Nick, I want you on surveillance. We need more information on our 'twins' at the Palace."

Bootsteps sounded at the bottom of the stairs, and Malcolm's silver eyes flashed, "Art and Luna do not need to know the senshi or about anyone's previous lives. If the girls feel it is necessary, they will update the pair."

Luna opened the door and looked around the room and commented, "Well, it's not exactly my place, but I think with a few female touches, we could make it work."

Art looked around, "Where exactly did everyone go? They were here just a few minutes ago."

Jake, Zach, and Nick looked at Malcolm, who answered, "They had to go on a recovery mission, and they will be back shortly. In the meantime, we have a bit of a mission for you two. It looks like we're going to have a full house in a short time and we need all kinds of provisions."

Jake flashed a weary smile to Luna and Art who were nodding in agreement at their 'assignment', "Let's get going."

Malcolm said, "Be careful. I have a feeling that our exit from the Palace caused quite a stir."

After a sleepless night trying to come with explanations for what had happened in the previous day, General Steig had gathered his Generals, "I've just had word from Berlin. The Queen has been captured and they are transporting her to a secure location in Germany. We have been warned to keep security measures on high alert. If she escapes, it is likely she will attempt to return to her homeland."

The men nodded.

The platinum haired man continued, "I also want a full report on the man…the man who looks like me. The girl who he left with was speaking English. I suspect that may mean there is some sort of foreign government involved."

Arriving at Liberty Island, Darien smiled when he saw the young women waiting for him on the far side of the Statue. What he did not expect to see an additional four senshi.

Darien uttered, "But how…?"

Mercury did her best to explain, "You only met them briefly, on your wedding day."

Uranus walked up to the former Prince confidently, "It was our duty to watch over the Silver Millennium from a distance."

Darien shook his head sadly, "I hope this does not reflect how great a danger we are in at the moment."

Suddenly, their new King glowed bright silver. He looked down to see his clothes had been replaced with the tuxedo.

Pluto wondered aloud, "Who are you?"

Darien lowered his mask and winked, "It's me under here. I'm not sure where it's coming from."

Venus shrugged, and looked at the group, "Are you ready?"

Eight heads nodded.

A pale yellow aura flared and female voice yelled, "Sailor transport power!"

Queen Serena was being moved and taken to a room with bright lights. Taking a deep breath, she got her bearings. She was in a room with a small porthole, on a boat of some kind. Gathering her inner strength, Serena opened her eyes and swore that she would not embarrass herself or be intimidated by anyone who questioned her. Finally settled, and bound tightly to a chair, she asked coolly, "What do you want from me?"

"Fraulein—"

"Frau."

"My mistake," replied a heavily accented masculine voice, "We have in our possession—"

"My necklace. I'd like it returned at once."

A new voice hissed, "I don't think you're in any position to be making demands, Frau Shields."

"I'd prefer if you address me by my proper title. I'm sure you're familiar with it, as your soldiers were the ones to bestow it on me."

Her statement was greeted with silence.

"And if you could please return my broach?"

Hands grabbed Serena and pulled her up roughly.

"Return her to her room. We'll see if a little hunger won't make her more willing to talk."

When Darien came to, he saw a familiar pair of silver eyes smiling down at him. A hand reached down to pull him up, and Darien had to blink back tears as strong arms clapped around him, "It's good to see you too, Malc."

Darien warmly greeted each of his men, while the Inner senshi helped the now exhausted Outer senshi to a hastily organized room.

Neptune sighed heavily, "When we will de-transform?"

Mercury shook her head, "I'm not sure, as long as Serena is in danger, I guess."

Hearing the commotion upstairs, Art rushed up into the room and did a double take when he saw Darien, "Who is this man? What is he doing here?"

Darien confidently walked over and shook the older man's hand, "I am Captain Darien Shields. I recently wed the former Crown Princess of Ginzuberg."

Art sat down heavily, "It can't be."

With the Outer scouts out for a few hours, Venus walked back upstairs to confer with Malcolm. Seeing the near standoff that was occurring between her new King and her adoptive father, Venus ran up to hug the older man, completely forgetting Art hadn't yet seen her in her revealing fuku.

"And just what are you wearing, young lady?!"

Eyes darting around the room, the Venusian senshi looked for a quiet place. She was glad she could try her best in her own words to explain to Art what was going on. She asked simply, "Can you follow me?"

Art knew something was up, "Is this important?"

Venus nodded.

"Then maybe we should get Luna…"

Mia grinned, glad at least there was something to be happy about in all this madness, "Sure thing. Meet me in the attic in a few minutes."

Serena willed herself not to cry once she had been thrown back into her room.

At least I'm not alone.

That's right…we're here for you.

Serena looked up and out at the ocean that was sailing by. She had to stay optimistic. It was her heart the Crystal depended on and she doubted it would respond to depression. Settling in as best she could in the harsh conditions, the Queen wondered where and what her beloved Darien was doing.