Shadowed Love

Chapter 1

Miami, Florida, USA

Almost three years had passed since the fight with Galaxia. The battle was long over; the enemy reduced to dreams and there was no mission anymore.

Everyone was moving on with their lives back home. Mamoru and Usagi were happier then ever, their wedding was expected to happen in the next couple of years. Ami had finished high school early and was considering which medical school she wanted to attend.

Makoto was busy balancing her school work with her cooking show.

Mina had her own singing show.

Rei was running the temple and it was doing the best business ever.

Setsuna had chosen to stay for a while; there was really no need for her to rush back. Hotoru was doing extremly well and enjoying her time in this life.

Michiru and Haruka had decided to take some time away from the others. Partly because Michiru was in demand in the United States; and Haruka was becoming increasingly unhappy. Neither of them could figure out why she was so restless; but something in her was demanding that they leave the group, if only for a time.

So here they were, in the intense heat of Miami Florida. It should have made Haruka happy. But it didn't. With her mission over, she should be able to go back to being a racecar driver. Perhaps that's why she spent every single day at the Miami race track. She watched from the stands instead of being on the track; she wasn't a star anymore and they wouldn't let her in if she wasn't a driver. Haruka could have gotten in if she really wanted to; but instead she watched from the spectator stands.

In the distance the sounds of multiple engines roared and faded. There were always people moving about. She could see them, even from the distant stands. Out on the track there were three cars, they weren't officially racing, just practicing. But Haruka knew that each driver was competing against the others. They all wanted to be the best, even if it was just a practice.

She stood with a sigh and turned to leave; when something caught her eye. Turning quickly she felt a smile touched her lips as she watched the figure. She instantly recognized the woman that was running up the stairs. Her pace was quick but not hurried.

The warm Florida sunshine gleamed off the long brown hair; it swung back and forth past her shoulders; the sun brought out the silver highlights. It was like watching moonlight flare in broad daylight. It was captivating. Her flawless pale skin glittered with sweat as she jogged steadily up the bleacher steps. Her lean pale arms were pumping a steady rhythm, her slim legs pushing off each step and bringing her closer to the top. Her sunglasses kept her eyes from view; but Haruka knew what color they were, her eyes were unforgettable.

She reached the last step and slumped against the railing. Her ample chest rose and fell at a quick pace as she pushed her damp hair off her face.

Haruka looked her over once more. The girl's outfit matched; black sleeveless top, black shorts and black shoes with black socks. It matched the black band that was wrapped around her wrist; Haruka couldn't remember a time when she didn't wear the band. Even to black-tie events, it was there.

The girl turned as if sensing someone. Haruka smiled to herself. The woman had no idea how beautiful she was. Her mouth was the color of fresh rose petals and perfectly bow-shaped, full on the bottom so that she pouted slightly, but also full on top; it was perfect. She had a high forehead that matched the long, goddess-like lines of her face. Her body was perfect; full of curves, and lean muscle.

Haruka sighed to herself and she shook her head. If only she didn't have Michiru, she could have this woman. Haruka laughed at the thought that followed; it would be a worthwhile experience.

The girl was still watching her; Haruka knew she wouldn't approach first. She never did.

"Stilly trying to out run your self, Frost?" Haruka used Japanese, knowing the other girl would understand her.

She smiled and it made her stunning, "Only if you're in front of me." Her response was perfect Japanese.

"I'm always in front of you." Haruka teased and Frost laughed.

With the initial greeting over, Haruka crossed to stand in front of her. She put her hands in the pockets of her pants and stood looking down at her. There was a four inch height difference between them.

"What are you doing in the U.S.?" Frost asked casually. She kept her sunglasses in place and crossed her arms.

"Vacation," Haruka smiled at her, "You?"

Frost gave a sigh, "My father demanded I return."

Haruka looked toward the track and felt a twinge of longing. "You're brother is racing."

"Yes, he's on the practice track with Clark and Adam."

"Stiff competition."

The girl laughed, "I suppose."

"Let me walk you back?"

Frost gave a playful smile, "Only if you come for dinner tonight."

Haruka hesitated. Tonight Michiru had a gallery opening she was going to. She was going with the artist; the artist didn't like Haruka and Michiru wanted to keep the doors to America open.

Haruka nodded, "Sure, I have no where to be tonight."

Frost grinned. The effect surprised Haruka; it was just a smile, right? "Then you can walk me back."

There is a smell to the air once you're inside the world of racing. It's the smell of motor oil, sweat, warm leather and of competition. It fills you up and rolls you in the slightly sickening richness of it all. It was a scent Haruka had missed greatly and the moment it hit her she had to stop and inhale.

Frost glanced back and gave her a knowing smile. She slowed her pace but didn't make a show of waiting for the other woman to follow. After a moment, Haruka matched her stride and they walked together into the pit. The sound of power drills, conversation, and music competed to be heard over the roar of engines and countless people.

Frost's father and two other brothers were gathered around the second and third cars. The crew that maintained the three cars was also there and it seemed a meeting was underway. One of the brothers glanced up and frowned deeply at Haruka. She ignored him and followed Frost into one of the three trailers that were parked off to the side of the garage.

Frost was stripping out of her jogging top as Haruka shut the door. Frost didn't pause as she walked into the bathroom; she left the door open and turned on the shower. A moment later she was naked and looking around for a towel to hang by the shower.

Haruka watched her; it was impossible not to. Her eyes were caught by the sight of a tattoo on Frost's shoulder. It was a dark mark against that other wise moon-pale skin. The tattoo was new; Haruka wanted a closer look, it reminded her of something familiar.

She leaned her shoulder up against the door way; there was a sharp pain. It reminded her of the warrior she was. Frost turned and arched a slim brow in question. Haruka gave her an innocent expression which made Frost laugh gently.

"You didn't have a tattoo last time." Haruka remarked, still using Japanese.

"It's new." Frost licked her lips and glanced away, she drew in a shallow breath and smiled gently. "Would you like a closer look?"

Haruka smiled, "That would be teasing."

"I'm a big girl, I can take it."

Haruka reached out a single hand; the room was small and she had long arms. Her fingers touched Frost's pale skin; they were a contrast in color. Haruka was golden and Frost was white. It was like the sun meeting the mist and instead of one over powering the other, they blended. Her fingers drifted down the pale shoulder to where the mark sat; on the right shoulder blade. She traced the lines and recognized it.

"Uranus." Haruka whispered and looked into Frost's eyes.

As always her eyes captivated and hypnotized the viewer. The rich amethyst depths were touched with the purest of green streaks. As if an artist had taken a brush and added each dash of green, one touch at a time. Those eyes had haunted Haruka's dreams for years; even after she had Michiru to hold, she still saw those eyes.

The warm shower was filling the tiny room with steam; Haruka forced herself to blink and dropped her hand. Because of the moisture in the air, her fingers slid off Frost's skin. The other girl shuddered and reached for the retreating hand. Haruka stepped out of reach and had to swallow before she could talk.

"This isn't the place for..." She stopped abruptly and had to take another step back. "I'll wait outside."

Haruka quickly left the trailer; she stopped only when she was in the warm sunshine. The hand that had touched Frost was tingling. Her heart was racing and she couldn't breathe without choking. She leaned against the back of the trailer and pressed a hand to her forehead.

It had been years; and still Haruka wanted Frost. It was a desire that would never been fully satisfied. No matter how much Haruka loved Michiru and how devoted she was to protecting her Queen and the future; as long as Frost was in this world, Haruka would never be free of this maddening desire.

She rolled her head back, bumping it against the plastic walls of the trailer.

"Tenoh,"

Haruka felt her shoulders tense as she lifted her head, her eyes narrowing as she found the source. "Hello Winter." She used Japanese.

"You're in America now, speak American."

Haruka smiled, "Or you'll what?"

"Look you..." Winter took a breath, "Stay away from my sister. She's just started getting over you."

Haruka hid her surprise and crossed her arms as she stood up, "Mind your own business."

"My sister is my business."

Winter had the same silver-brown hair that his sister had, but his eyes were strictly a dull green. They weren't like Frost's at all. He was a large square and was as stubborn as they came. He was also the eldest of the siblings and took it personally when something happened in the family.

He raised a fist and waived it at Haruka, "Just stay away." he spoke each word precisely and carefully.

"Winter!"

Haruka wanted to turn as Frost came out of the trailer, but she didn't take eyes off the man in front of her.

Frost came up beside Haruka wrapped in a thick black robe, her long wet hair still dripping with water. She hadn't dried off yet.

For an instant Haruka was distracted at the image of water trailing down those lovely shoulders. Like crystal rivers on the smooth surface of the moon.

"That's enough!"

Haruka blinked and was reminded of the large man in front of her. She refocused and noticed their father had joined in. He had one hand firmly planted on Winter's shoulder. Alexander "The Hammer" Stovick was a big man. More then seven feet and just as wide and powerful as one would expect. He stood almost a foot taller then his son and more then that over his only daughter.

"Daddy, please. He was harassing Haruka." Frost was using English but Haruka could still understand the conversation.

"I see," Alexander looked at the blonde woman, "So that's what got his boxers in a twist."

"Daddy!" Frost had crossed her arms, "He was waving his fist at her."

Alexander's dark brown eyes flared for a moment, he was still staring at Haruka.

Haruka knew he didn't like his daughter's interest in women. She knew it worried him and lead him to push Frost away. Haruka also knew that Frost didn't care what her father thought. She was her own person and she could do or feel whatever she wanted.

As much as Alexander Stovick disliked his daughter's tastes; he was an old-fashioned man and waving your fist at a woman, regardless of her orientation, was a big mistake.

"Winter," That one word was enough to make the air cold, "Let's talk."

"But Dad!" Winter didn't get a chance to continue as his father literally dragged him away.

Frost turned to Haruka and switched instantly to Japanese. "I'm sorry. He's just...What an idiot." She paused, "I guess I shouldn't have interfered, but if Daddy had seen you kicking Winter's butt, he would've been really embarrassed."

Haruka smiled gently, Frost was one of the few people who understood that Haruka could handle herself.

"We don't want to upset Daddy." Haruka said gently. She stared into those eyes again.

Frost stepped back this time but was smiling softly, "Dinner at my place, say around seven?"

Haruka nodded, "I'll need directions."

Frost took a piece of paper from the pocket of the robe and held it out. "I look forward to it." She turned and went back inside without further teasing.

Haruka stared at the slip of paper and closed her fingers around it. Her heart was still racing and she suddenly realized what this feeling insider her was. It was anticipation. She wanted to see Frost tonight. She wanted to watch her and hear her voice.

It was more then sheer lust; Haruka suddenly realized what it was about Frost Stovick that refused to leave. Nothing about this woman was related to the Sailor Soldiers. Frost didn't know what a Star Seed was or care about past lives or anything else. Frost lived for racing and competition, just as Haruka did.

With a sigh of resignation she left the track and made her way across the parking lot. Once at her car she had to stop; she had to shake loose the feeling of regret that was blooming in her chest.

Racing was how Frost and Haruka had met; all those years ago. Long before Haruka was Sailor Uranus and before everything changed. Those had been good days, happy days.

The distant days of fun rivalry, secret love, and life-long friendship. Frost had been the American star of racing, Haruka was Japan's star. They had met at a press conference when they were both signed to the same sponsor. Their connection had been instant.

In the warm Miami sun, Haruka sighed to herself and shook her head. She had to lean against her car; she was suddenly over come with memories.

Frost had been a kid, just like Haruka, but her soul was old. One look into her fantastic eyes and you knew she was old. Haruka had been attracted to the old soul and the wild spirit that sparkled in those unforgettable eyes. The more she got to know this American racer, the more she realized just how similar they were. They were both trying to find their own way in the spotlight and running away from things they didn't fully understand.

Frost was a legend before she came to Japan. She was the only daughter to the racing world's foremost mechanic and her brothers were racing champions in their own right.

Some people joked that fuel ran in her blood.

Haruka sighed and had to shake the memories loose. Those days were gone. The track was no longer her life and neither was Frost Stovick or her family.

The sun was sinking on the horizon as Michiru moved about the apartment. The shadows were deep and pooling in the corners. The distant view of the ocean threw sparkling light into the sky which seemed to fall across the floor of the living room. Haruka was watching her partner from the couch. The room smelled of soft perfume, the gentle rustle of silk against skin was loud in the silent space.

"Have a good time." Haruka said idly.

"I'm sorry you can't come." Michiru glanced over, "But then, art has never been your area of fun."

Haruka smiled gently, "You're fun enough."

Michiru crossed the floor and looked down at Haruka on the couch; their eyes met and it was the same as always. The connection between them was strong; it resonated to their souls and into the far reaches of space and time. One look and they both knew that theirs was true love. Haruka reached up and caressed that silken sea-green hair. Michiru was the most beautiful woman in the world and it was all Haruka could do not to weep from it.

"I'll be home late, so don't wait up." Michiru took her partner's hand, turned it palm up and kissed it. "I'll see you tomorrow morning."

Haruka let her hand drop to the couch as Michiru went to the door, gathered her evening purse and left. The door clicked firmly behind her and Haruka let out a deep sigh.

She stood up and crossed to the large window. The sun was slipping slowly into the ocean; she watched as Michiru climbed into a cab and was whisked away into the evening. Haruka put a hand against the glass and sighed again.

Never in any of her past life memories, was there ever a conflict like this. Back on the Moon, when the Kingdom had been strong, Haruka and Michiru had been inseparable. There was no question, no distraction, and no Frost Stovick. But in this modern time, that was rushing head-long to a future it did not know; there were distractions, there were questions and then there was Frost Stovick.

Haruka remembered the tattoo on that pale skin; it had been the planetary symbol of Uranus. Haruka's planet; her personal symbol. Frost had no idea how much that meant to Haruka. She closed her eyes and the dark image was clear. The symbol of the planet inked into that beautiful shoulder for all time and never to be forgotten.

It made her heart clench and Haruka realized she was near tears, again. But not because of beauty, but because of something she didn't fully understand.

Like so much surrounding Frost, Haruka didn't understand. That was part of the relationship that meant so much to her; this lack of understanding, this constant mystery. That's what Frost really was, she was a mystery. No matter how much Haruka learned about her or how long they talked, Frost Stovick was still a mystery.

Haruka opened her eyes and stared at the darkening ocean; just like the sea, there was so much below the surface.

The condominium building gleamed like a white spire reaching into the dark sky. The moon sat fat and lazy over the whispering ocean. It's silver light rippling as the water moved. The air smelled of fading sunlight, spicy heat, and secrets yet to be discovered.

Haruka pulled open the building door and strode across the foyer to the elevator. There was no one to stop her; the building was empty and quite. The elevator was already there and the ride was quick and quiet.

She stood before the only door in the hall and rang the door bell; the door opened a second later. In that instant, her worries and fears vanished. She smiled instantly at the sight before her.

Frost was in a black sarong skirt that was touched with silver thread; her black sleeveless top had a deep V-neck and wrapped around her middle. Her hair was loose and sparkled with silver fire.

The loose hair was like warm silk as Haruka touched it, "You remembered."

Frost smiled, "Naturally." She stepped aside; Haruka stepped inside and looked around. She'd never seen Frost's Miami apartment, just her Tokyo one.

The apartment was large; with a full wall of windows and a balcony, all mere feet from the ocean. The main room that was immediately visible was lavishly decorated. A large oil-on-canvas painting dominated the far wall. Two couches in black leather sat facing each other; a glass topped table complete with crystal sculpture was between them. A black and silver rug was placed under the table.

The rest of the floor was pale oak and glistened in the dim light of the apartment. There was a stronger light source to the left, where Frost had vanished to.

Haruka followed, glancing at the painting. She stopped abruptly and had to force herself to breathe. It was one of Michiru's paintings.

"Do you want wine or something?"

Haruka blinked and stepped into the kitchen. Frost was busy searching the fridge for something. "Water's fine."

Frost found what she needed and closed the door. "Ice?"

"No."

Frost filled a glass and handed it to her, "I saw you stop at the painting."

Haruka resisted the urge to flinch, "Kaioh is a famous painter in Japan."

"I know." Frost smiled gently, "Her work is dark, haunted but at the same time compelling and incredibly beautiful."

"Some of her work is," Haruka admitted, thinking back to all that Silence paintings Michiru had done. "Not all of it."

Frost was surprised, "You know her?"

Haruka frowned then, "I thought we were having dinner."

"It's almost ready, sit down." Frost brushed off the sudden change in topic without flinching.

As they shared dinner, the conversation was mainly about racing, cars and the circuit. Michiru's name never came up again, much to Haruka's relief.

"I think Taylor and Wilson have hit their last season." Frost muttered as she nibbled on a dinner roll. "Taylor can't keep his focus during a race, that's why he falls behind. Wilson's just in it for the money; he's never been it for the speed. But there's always Sanders to watch for, he's really coming up this year. His managers think..."

Haruka watched her talk and was caught by the way the night held her. Frost was illuminated by the moon and it made her seem mysterious and beautiful. Shadows seemed to caress her face and highlight the green in the amethyst depths of her eyes.

"What do you think?" Frost turned those eyes to her and Haruka blinked. "You haven't been listening." Frost narrowed those eyes and the shadows lost their romantic qualities. "What's up?"

"I was thinking about you, it takes a lot of concentration to do that."

She still wasn't placated; Haruka stood up and came to her chair. She couched down in front of Frost and stared into her face.

In truth her concentration had been on not giving into the desire to touch her arms. The moonlight caressed her skin like a secret hand and it made Haruka want to follow the same path.

They were inches apart and all Haruka had to do was lean in; Frost wouldn't stop her. They both wanted the other and it was a mutual passion. But Frost would never make the first move; it was one of her most charming qualities. Haruka had to move first, and then Frost would follow.

Haruka leaned in and her hands touched Frost's forearms. The skin was cool and smooth, she gently moved her hands up and Frost let out a sigh. The moonlight seemed to shy away suddenly as clouds blew across it's silver surface. It seemed hours, but was only seconds when the clouds passed, silver light poured into the shadowy space.

A moment later the phone rang, shattering the moment. Haruka pulled away with a sigh and cupped Frost's face; her cheeks were flushed a gentle rose color as she pulled in a breath. The phone continued to ring, the shrill sound ruining the peaceful silence.

"Let it ring," Haruka leaned in to continue their kiss.

The answering machine snapped on and a male voice filled the apartment.

"Frost, it's your father."

Frost pulled back quickly and jumped up, she dashed for the phone and picked up. The answering machine clicked off automatically and Frost spoke in a flushed tone.

"Sorry Daddy, I didn't hear the phone ring." She paused, "What? Ah, no, I was working out."

Haruka pulled in a breath and stood up, her body was screaming for more, but it was over for now. The magic of the moon and shadows had faded. She went back to her chair and sat down, turning her gaze out to the sea in the distance. But her thoughts didn't turn to Michiru; instead they lingered on the softness of Frost's lips.

Haruka closed her eyes and memories filled her mind.

Flashback

Tokyo was warm, it was mid-summer, and there was a carefree feeling in the air. Haruka was jogging her way through the park and trying to forget the nightmare that had woken her before dawn. It was the same dream, always the same dream.

She dogged a group of school girls and continued along the path; ahead she would have to join the main streets. It would make the jog more challenging but it would keep her mind off that dream.

Turning the corner she jogged along the block and had to pause at the intersection. She ran a hand through her blonde hair; sweeping it off her face. Once she returned to school, she'd have to shower and then go to the track. She had a practice race this evening.

Some American racer was in town and it was supposed to be a big publicity event. It made Haruka cringe to think of all the cameras, the press, the questions. She knew it would be a long evening and wasn't looking forward to it.

Absently she glanced to the left. Her attention was caught by the sight of a sleek black sports convertible. It was expensive and spectacular. It was rare too. Haruka had one herself, a priceless gift from one of her sponsors for all her success. She rarely drove it because people would always bother her and stare, but it was fantastic car.

Haruka glanced at the driver, expecting to see a man. She did a double take at the sight. The girl behind the wheel was the same age as Haruka. But there was something about her, a feeling, that made Haruka think the driver was much older. The girl turned her head as if sensing being watched; her mirrored sunglasses flashed in the warm sunlight. She reached up with one slender hand, the black band around her wrist slid along that pale skin. She lowered the lenses and Haruka gasped at the eyes that pierced her soul.

The girl behind the wheel smiled; it was a teasing, wild smile and Haruka returned it. The girl slid the glasses back into place and took off as the light changed.

That was the first time Haruka would meet Frost; but it would not be the last.

Haruka stirred, her eyes opened and she realized what had woken her. Reaching into her suit jacket she pulled out her cell phone.

Michiru had insisted they get them while in the United States. It wasn't a good idea to use their communicators, people would stare. In Japan, they could brush them off as advanced communication devices.

Haruka pressed a button and a moment later Michiru's voice came across.

"I'm heading back to Tokyo tonight."

"Why?"

There was a pause, "The sea is angry again. I think a new enemy may be there."

Haruka had to stop herself from sighing, "I'll join you."

"No, let me check it out. I'll call you if I need you." Michiru hung up and Haruka sighed heavily.

Galaxia had been the worst they'd ever faced. Her dreams were still haunted with dying during that battle. What other enemy could there be? What else was there to fight?

"Haruka?"

She glanced up as Frost walked into the room, "Who were you talking to?"

"It's nothing." She said coolly and stood up, "Is everything okay with your dad?"

Frost sighed, it was a defeated sound. "Not entirely, but I'll sort it out." Frost crossed her arms but Haruka knew it was a defensive action. Something had upset her and she wasn't going to share it.

"Tomorrow," Haruka said and crossed to her, Frost looked at her, "I'm taking you to lunch."

Frost smiled gently, "Really?"

"Yes, I'll be here for noon." Haruka ran her hands up those pale arms and felt Frost shiver. She kissed her deeply and for a moment felt that magic return.

Carefully, as she might shatter, Haruka stepped away from Frost. The girl stared up at her and her eyes were filled with mystery and passion.

"Stay." Frost gently drew her finger tips across Haruka's shoulders. "Please stay."

Frost's voice quivered and she was shaking slightly in Haruka's arms.

Haruka thought of Michiru, but there was no guilt. The other girl was probably already at the airport, she would be in Japan in a few hours. There was nothing to stop Haruka from giving into her need.

She looked down into those mesmerizing eyes; for one night she wanted to forget about being a solider. For one evening she wanted to be woman who was needed by another. There was no enemy to fight, no mission to complete. As Haruka held Frost she knew that despite her love for Michiru, this was just as real.

Sleep slid away like a slow wave; Haruka felt someone move next to her and wondered what Michiru was doing up so early. She opened her eyes and blinked quickly; Frost was sitting up, her breathing was too fast and she was shaking. Haruka was instantly awake and sat up; putting her arms around the woman.

"What's wrong?"

"Just a nightmare," Frost pressed her face into her hands and drew her knees up; the black silk sheets whispered against her skin.

Haruka knew the sun was up, it was morning. But the heavy blinds in Frost's room kept the light out. It might as well have been midnight. She held the girl in her arms as Frost rested her arms on her knees.

"You're still having nightmares?" Haruka asked after a moment of silence.

"They never stopped." Frost turned her head and looked at Haruka. Her silver-brown hair fell across her face like a mask. Haruka brushed it away and caressed the line of her jaw. "The only time I don't have nightmares is when you are with me."

"I am with you, and you had one."

Frost smiled gently, "Good point, but they're less violent with you here. I don't wake up screaming like I normally do."

Haruka was familiar with nightmares; Michiru had them constantly during the time of Galaxia.

"Do you suppose they mean anything?" Haruka asked gently.

Frost sighed, "If they do, I don't want to know it." She looked away and rested her chin on her arms. "Such horrible things shouldn't happen."

Haruka felt her heart tighten, she agreed with Frost. "But sometimes they do."

"I know." Frost sounded so tired, so...old. Her voice was heavy with a deep sorrow and a deeper emotion that shook Haruka.

She wrapped her arms tightly around Frost and pulled her close. Frost cuddled against her.

"You're going to leave, again." Frost muttered.

Haruka realized she was drifting off to sleep again. "Not yet."

Haruka rested against the mattress with Frost clinging to her. Lazily her fingers stroked through the silver-brown hair. It was like warm silk; it whispered through her fingers and spilled across her shoulders. Haruka noticed the tattoo again and touched it lightly. Frost didn't stir.

"What possessed you to get this tattoo?" She asked the sleeping woman.

Haruka awoke and was confused for a moment, why was she awake? She heard the ring of her cell phone and sighed. Michiru...

Rolling over she searched the floor for her suit jacket. A moment later she pulled out the phone. "What have you found?"

"We're needed. Princess Fireball is back with a request for the King and Queen and she needs us."

Haruka absently stroked Frost's arm; it was flung across her stomach. "I'll leave on the first flight." As the words left her mouth she suddenly realized Frost's prediction had come true. She stared at the sleeping woman and was suddenly worried.

"Did Fireball say what she needed us for?"

"She wants us both here before she explains. The Starlight's are with her."

Haruka couldn't shake her worried feeling. "Galaxia?"

"I don't think so, it feels different."

"What does Setsuna say?"

"She won't say anything."

"Okay, I'll be there as soon as I can."

The call ended and Haruka closed her eyes as she rolled her head back; it gently bumped the wall and she suddenly realized she didn't want to leave. Nothing in her wanted to leave the warmth of this bed or the circle of Frost's arms. In that same revelation she knew that she would leave. She was Sailor Uranus, a Soldier and she had a destiny to protect the Queen of the Moon; a destiny that did not include people like Frost Stovick.

As she gently left the bed, she felt her heart shatter. Whatever dreams she'd ever had for a normal life, were finally over.

Pulling on her shirt and pants she paused as she felt someone watching her. She looked up and Frost was staring at her. The look on her face was pure understanding.

Without a word she got out of bed, pulled on a dress, and heeled sandals. She left her hair loose and they left the apartment together.

The drive to the airport was silent; Haruka kept looking at Frost, longing to explain, but knowing she couldn't. Frost wasn't a part of this and it wasn't her destiny to ever be a part of it.

Frost stood with Haruka was they waited for the boarding call; neither one had spoken. Haruka was holding her and trying to ignore the feeling of heartbreak that was eating at her.

"Frost," Haruka started but was cut off as the call finally went out. Frost stood away from the sailor soldier and crossed her arms.

Haruka wanted desperately to never leave. But it was impossible; there was no way she could stay.

Frost looked up at her and tears shimmered in her eyes. "Winter told me I would fall in love with you again. I told him I wouldn't. But..." She cut her self off and closed her eyes. Silver rivers tumbled down her cheeks. Haruka gently cupped her face and kissed her.

Frost's arms went around her.

Haruka stepped back and it was the hardest moment of her life. "I have to leave."

"I know."

They stared at one another and Haruka suddenly realized that perhaps Frost really did know. But how could she know any of this? There was no way she could be from the Moon Kingdom. Frost would have been awakened long ago to fight for the Earth.

Haruka shook her and stepped away, "Good luck with the Circuit."

Frost laughed harshly, "Yeah, thanks."

Haruka sat in her seat, staring at the terminal and couldn't stop the pain her heart. She closed her eyes and shut away the pain as the airplane lifted off and she headed back to her true calling.

Continued in Chapter 2