Shadowed Love

CHAPTER 3

Tokyo, Japan

The moon glittered and glowed in the star-filled night sky. It was the perfect evening to be on a date; the perfect time for Mamoru to spend with Usagi and tell here again, how much he loved her. But Usagi wasn't with him. She was busy with Makoto and the others tonight; something about Mina's new record album.

The silent park was deep in shadows, the street lamps were spaced every few feet, but that did nothing to weaken the inky black pools of darkness. Despite the frightening setting, he was comfortable. He was walking in an effort to clear his head of the dreams that had been plaguing him the last week. Ever since that new senshi showed up...who was she? Why did he care so much?

Mamoru sighed and paused as the path ended and broke into two directions. Going left or right would pull him into another area of the park, going straight would lead him the lake. He went straight, leaning on the guard railing and watching the dark water twinkle in the starlight.

"Nice night for a walk."

He jumped and turned his head; standing not two feet away was the mystery girl. He stood up straight and she joined him at the rail. He wasn't sure what to say to her.

"Relax," She told him, her gaze on the water below them, "This reminds me of a garden I used to play in when I was younger."

Mamoru gasped, he couldn't help it. This place echoed the memories of a garden on the Moon Kingdom. He'd secretly met Usagi there when the Palace had parties. They would spend hours wandering the shadows and making plans for their future together.

The girl turned her head and looked at him, her green-amethyst eyes flared and glowed with dark mystery. "My name is Frost by the way."

He was staring at her, still not sure what to say. Frost didn't look away form him. "You and I share a lot in common, Prince Mamoru." She stood up straight and turned around, leaning her back against the rail, looking at him. "The Moon Kingdom was a place where we both found love and lost it."

He found his voice, "I know you from the Future as well."

She gave a nod, "I am aware of our...alliance in the Future."

"But Usagi and the others, they don't know about it."

"No. You and I kept it secret."

"Why? I have no secrets from Usako."

Frost arched a brow at him, "Are you sure about that?"

"Yes." He believed the word. he didn't have secrets from his love. So why did his heart not agree with him. "What could I possibly have to hide from her?"

"The Future is a long time away, my King." Frost stared at him as she spoke; he was tense at her words. "The point is, there is history between us that does not involve the Moon Kingdom."

Mamoru suddenly remembered, it was what his dreams had been trying to tell him all week.

The Past

Prince Mamoru stared up at the moon with a deep longing in his heart. If only he could see her again. But to see her was dangerous; if he were caught, the alliance between the Earth and the Moon would crumble. Neither Kingdom could afford that.

At his back he heard motion and sighed as a servant appeared. "Your Highness, you have a visitor."

"I'll be right in." He said and the servant left.

Mamoru took one last longing look at the Moon and returned to the house. The warm interior did nothing to comfort him and he slumped into a chair. He wanted to see her again.

"Highness?"

Mamoru glanced at the entrance and was surprised, "Queen Chandra."

The woman stepped into the room; her long silver-black gown sparkled. Her floor length silver-brown hair shone with a mysterious light. She wore a black band around her left wrist; a silver chain glittered against her pale neck and the pendant disappeared into her dress. The tiara atop her head was made of black diamonds and sparkled in the bright lights of the room.

"You're dressed up," He remarked coolly. Not moving from his chair.

"I came from a party." She mused and sat down across from him. "You were not at Court this morning."

"I am not feeling well."

Chandra gave him a knowing smile, "The Moon Princess is very sweet."

He jumped and glared at her, "What are you talking about?"

"Come now, cousin." She laughed gently, "You love the young woman."

Mamoru frowned at her but could not lie to his cousin. Chandra was unusually sensitive to people and their emotions. Lying to her was impossible.

"It's a doomed love, Chandra. She is of the Moon, I am of Earth. Our love would crush the alliance."

"Or not," Chandra said coolly and settled more into the chair. "Perhaps your love will only strengthen it, in the future."

Mamoru shook his head, but then paused. He had heard that Chandra's powers for seeing the future were unmatched, not even by the Princess of Neptune.

He glanced at her, "The future."

Chandra's hypnotic green-purple eyes sparkled with a secret. "Exactly."

"How long?"

His cousin gave no answer. "Time does not matter if love is deep enough."

He sighed, "It will be a long time then."

She chuckled softly. As always, her laugh made him feel warm and fuzzy all over. It wasn't lust or love, it was just her. She had a personality that could welcome and warm you or frighten and terrify you. She was a the perfect balance of opposites. Dark in her mood and sense of humor, but light in her emotions and thoughts. Chandra was the Princess of the Dark Moon, one of the oldest kingdoms in their universe.

Mamoru sighed, "I heard you had a meeting with Queen Serenity today."

"It was postponed until tomorrow. You don't like her."

"No, I don't." Chandra did not hide her feelings about others.

The prince stood up and began to pace, "I find your dislike of her to be unusual. She is your aunt; your mother is of the White Moon. Why do you not like the Queen?"

Chandra frowned but answered, "She is soft. Her soul is not strong enough for-"

Mamoru looked at her sharply, "For what?"

"She is a weak queen, cousin. I can only hope her daughter will not be like her."

Chandra stood, casting her eyes over him. "You need to see your lover, Mamoru."

"Usagi isn't-"

"I will arrange to have you come with me on my trip to the Moon." Chandra crossed to the door and looked back. Her expression was dark. "When the time comes, I will expect you to remember what I am about do for you."

With that she left and Mamoru wondered what she meant.

In Present Day Tokyo, Mamoru Chiba gasped as the memory ended. He grabbed the railing to stay upright and slowly looked at the woman next to him.

"We were family."

"My father and your Father shared the same blood."

He leaned his head on his folded arms. "Because of you, Usagi and I were able to keep meeting. We fell in love because you arranged my continued passage to the Moon."

"Yes, I did." Frost crossed her arms as she watched him gasp for breath. "It's not all bad, cousin."

"Don't call me that." He snapped and looked at her with angry eyes. "Whatever we had in the past, no longer exists here. We are not family in this time, do not assume I care about that."

He was startled when her eyes flashed; the green was light brilliant lightening. Their light was almost blinding. He backed away from her.

"You owe me!" She kept her voice strangely calm.

"Not in this life." He said darkly.

Frost smiled, it was a cold expression. "Are you challenging me?"

"Are you threatening us?"

Frost was quiet for a moment, "I do not mean you harm."

"But the others, Usako and the rest? What about them?"
"I am not here for war, Prince. I am here for what is long over due."

"And what's that?" He had a feeling he should already know, but the knowledge eluded him.

Frost seemed to realize that. "If you do not already know, you are obviously not ready. I have nothing left to discuss with you."

Mamoru blinked in surprise and she was gone. He was startled. None of the others could move like she did. A thought occurred to him, he gazed at the shadows that rested peacefully around them.

Could it be that simple?

Mamoru shook his head; it was impossible.

Frost was making her way down the street on foot. She'd decided against driving today. She was far too emotional to be behind the wheel, no telling how reckless she would be. Instead she walked, stomping her rage out on the pavement.

That was stupid, she chided herself, Very stupid.

Mamoru had not been aware of their past before she mentioned it. He was not ready for the truth. She'd been a stupid fool for trying to push him to remember.

She paused at the crosswalk and stared at the ground. Do I really need him?

The question haunted her as she continued to walk. Did she need Mamoru for this? Probably not. The politics and alliances of the Old Kingdom were dead, along with those that had forged them. There was no one she could side with here...except Mamoru. But even as she thought it, she doubted it. He was loyal to Usagi, to the others, just as she had thought he would be. But she had not anticipated his rage at the idea that he owed her.

"Don't be ridiculous, Frost." She snapped at her self, "Of course he's going to reject you. This is the modern 21st century. Not the Moon Kingdom of two-thousand years ago."

She sighed heavily. Once, back in the beginning of all this, she could depend on the support and council of her Earth born cousin. But here...that did not exist here. She was no better then he was, except in memory and she'd learned last night, that to Chiba Mamoru, the present is all that mattered.

"I am truly alone." She concluded and felt that oh so familiar twinge of ache and hate in her heart.

Mamoru was distracted as he walked with Usagi and her friends. He kept thinking of Frost and how she had encountered him last night. She hadn't lied to him; his memory of that long-ago life confirmed that. But the look on her face before she had left, it had been frightening.

He had no doubt she was powerful...that thought hit a nerve and he had to keep the sudden shock of knowledge to himself. If she was the mysterious senshi, then why help them but then ask for his personal help?

"Mamo-chan?"

He blinked and had to focus on Usagi, "Sorry, what?"

"I was asking if you wanted to go to a movie with us?"

He smiled, "Sure."

The evening was painting downtown Tokyo in vibrant colors; the setting sun was spectacular. From the twenty-first floor of her apartment, Frost watched it. Had her heart been lighter, she would have enjoyed it. But she had no joy for a sunset this evening.

Looking away from the awesome display of color and nature, she went to the kitchen, passing by the phone. There was a message on her machine; she'd already heard it a dozen times. But it still didn't make any sense to her. She paused by the phone and pressed the PLAY button. Thirteen was a lucky number, right?

"Frost, it's your father." There was a pause as noise filtered in; there were people around. "I'm calling you from the plane, we're heading home. Don't come." He paused again, "Frost, I'm sorry. But I can't stand the thought of your...lifestyle anymore. Don't come back and don't try to contact us. None of us can help you and we don't want to be distracted by it. This is a big year for us; if we do well, we'll be set for life. Good bye."

The machine beeped and she stared at it. Thirteen times she'd heard that message and it still didn't make much sense. She let out a sigh that was more a curse and sank to the floor. Putting her back up against the wall, she closed her eyes and tried to cry. But she couldn't. Tears were something she'd only shed once in her life; the day Haruka Tenoh had left her.

A sound reached her, she opened her eyes and realized she'd fallen asleep right where she sat. The deep shadows of the apartment cuddled her in their own way. She wasn't surprised at falling asleep; she hadn't been sleeping at all these days. The nightmares were getting worse and she wondered if she was going insane because of them.

The sound came again; she followed it with her eyes, not moving her body. The henshi device sat in arms reach; it was blinking in musical pulses. The five colored stones blinking on and off with each pulse. They needed her. All she had to do was reach out and take the device in her hand.

She sat watching the blinking colored lights; her gaze focused on the two stones on the right. They blinked green and gold. The musical tune was one she knew well. It had been her first waltz tune as a child, her favorite song as a baby and the song at her parent's wedding.

Frost let out a sigh and reached for the device. Her fingers stopped just above it and wouldn't touch the glowing black surface.

As she had done in the past, she did now. Frost Stovick, the reincarnation of Queen Chandra and Sailor Shadow Moon, stood up and walked away.

She walked for what seemed an eternity and paused only at the sounds of a fight. She approached the battle and realized with sad dismay she had walked to the scene. Some part of her did want to join in and help; some very small, tiny part of her had directed her tired body here.

Leaning against the wall, she closed her eyes and sank to the ground. She heard their screams, their terrified voices carried over the laughter of the monster. She huddled up, trying to block the noise and forget reality.

Chandra, the soft whisper of a voice touched her mind, she opened her eyes. My beloved, Chandra. You must help them.

"No, I don't." She said harshly.

The Queen of the Moon is dead, my love. The sins of her time have faded to nothing but dust. Her child is not guilty of any crime against you.

"That's not the point!" Frost cried. "They won't accept me. I am cursed to be alone."

The White Princess is not one for hate, Chandra. She is willing to accept you, let her.

"NO!"

IF you love me still, you will save them. If for nothing else, then for me. I am loyal to the Moon, and even I cannot help them tonight. Look if you can, see me?

Frost peeked around the building and focused on the body; they were lying too still, their chest did not rise very much. The people next to them were also too still. The only ones standing were Saturn, Pluto and Sailor Moon. Not even the Earth Prince was standing.

Saturn's shield was beginning to crack under the monster's constant attack. They would not live much longer.

Please my love, please. Protect those that I cannot.

Frost felt tears sting her eyes as she willed the device to her hand. The hated tears spilled down her face as she called the powers. As the black light faded, she sat in her uniform and was still crying.

Rising to her feet, Shadow Moon walked out and held out her right hand. The tears refused to stop as she summoned her attack and watched the monster disappear.

A moment later, Saturn collapsed, Sailor Moon held her closely. It was Sailor Saturn who stared at Shadow Moon; a surprised, sorrowful expression on her knowing face.

Only Saturn and Shadow Moon would know how much this act had cost her.

Sailor Moon looked up as Shadow turned to go. "WAIT!"

Saturn touched a hand to the young Princess' shoulder, "Let her go, Sailor Moon."

Half a block down, Shadow was replaced wiht Frost who could do nothing but cry all the way to her empty apartment.

Setsuna was unable to enjoy the card game; she could only think of today's battle. It wasn't the fact they had nearly lost. It was the expression of Chandra as she defeated the monster. Her eyes were filled with such deep sorrow, a broken spirit. Today's action, in saving the group, had cost Frost more then anyone would ever know. Except Pluto. She knew what it had cost, she knew everything.

Unrepentantly the doorbell rang, Michiru excused herself and went to answer it. A moment later she came back, "Setsuna, it's for you."

Rising she wondered who would be here. Frost had no clue where the outer scouts lived; so it couldn't be here. Perhaps it was Usagi?

As she entered the hallway she paused, it was Mamoru. He stood just inside the door and was looking tired and distracted. The last few days he'd been very unlike himself. It was worrying Usagi, but she wasn't about to start questioning him, yet.

"Mamoru?" She questioned and he looked up. His normally peaceful blue eyes were dark with unhappiness. "Is Usagi alright?"

"She's fine." He said absently and rubbed his left eye. "I need Frost's address."

Setsuna didn't hide her surprise, "What makes you think I have it?"

"You're the Guardian of Space and Time; you know everything about the sailor scouts."

She was truly stunned, now. "So...you know."

He gave a slow nod, "Frost came to ask me for help a few days ago. I handled it very badly."

"You did?"

"I got angry with her." He sighed and rubbed his face again, "I didn't give her a chance to explain anything. I just assumed she was a threat."

Setsuna sighed; it was a reaction she had been expecting. "I see."

He shook his head, "I made a mistake, Setsuna. I know that now."

"What makes you think you made a mistake?"
"I don't even know what she wants from us, but she saved us...again."

Setsuna kept quiet for a moment, "So what are you hoping to do?"

"Apologize, I don't know."

"Mamoru," she closed the distance between, lowering her voice to a soft whisper. "No one can ever know about your friendship with her. They have no memories of her ever existing."

He was surprised by that, "How? Why?"

She shook her head, "Not here. It's too complicated. I will give you the address, what you do with it, is up to you. Just be aware, this could change everything."

"I have an alliance with her in the Future, Setsuna." Mamoru looked into those ancient crimson eyes, "She can't be all bad."

Setsuna shook her head, "Frost is not bad. She is far from it."

"So then why are you afraid of her?"

That surprised the Time Guardian, but she smiled at him. "You are perceptive, Mamoru."

He shrugged, "Why are you afraid of her?"

"Go, talk to Frost. Do whatever is it that has to be done."

Mamoru left the house with the address and wasn't sure what to do next. After a moment he realized he had to talk to Frost. He had to apologize. She wasn't deserving of his anger, she'd done nothing, but help and he owed her an apology. As he drove toward her place, the thought hit him; he owed her more then that...much more then that. She'd been right.

Shaking his head, he drove faster.

The apartment building was luxurious, it was exclusive and at 2 a.m. it was open for visitors. He walked into the foyer and realized that the elevators wouldn't work unless a resident let him in. He didn't even know what floor she lived on. Looking at the list of tenants he found the name F. Stovick on the 32nd floor.

He pressed the button beside it. Minutes passed. He tried it again.

There was a hiss of static, "Yes?" The voice didn't sound the least bit sleepy.

"It's Mamoru, I need to talk to you."

"About what? You made your stance clear."

"I was wrong."

There was only silence. He wondered if she had disconnected him.

"Come up." There was a beep sound and he heard the heavy sound of the elevator moving. A moment later the doors chimed open and he went in.

He stood before her door and found it open. He walked in slowly and there was very little light; just the dim spill of kitchen light. The living room was deep in shadows. There was just enough illumination to see the outline of the furniture. There was a figure on the couch.

"Frost?"

"Close the door." She was on the couch and didn't sound sleepy. But her voice held something.

He closed the door, took off his shoes, and stepped into the living room. She hadn't invited him to sit, so he didn't.

"What do you want?"

He sighed, "I am sorry about the park. I over reacted and I never gave you a chance to explain anything."

"So?"

"I want to know what you want from us."

"From you, you mean. I came for your help, not theirs."

He nodded, "My help."

She turned and her eyes flared in the dim light. It was eerie but not frightening. "Sit down. This may take a while."

He sat down and the furniture was surprisingly comfortable. It was a chair made for long conversation. As he sat he noticed the open window, the view was spectacular.

"What do you remember from the past?" She asked after a long silence.

"I remember Usagi and the others, Queen Beryl destroyed the moon and we were sent here."

"Hmm, she did a good job then."

"Who did what?" He asked, instantly curious.

"Serenity. She did a good job of wiping your memories."

"But I just told you, I remember-"

"I meant about things before that. There's a hell of a lot that you don't remember. None of them seem to, except Pluto and perhaps Saturn. I'm not surprised that they remember. It's impossible to make them forget." Frost paused and moved around the couch again. "The Moon Kingdom had existed for a millennia before Queen Beryl came. The Shadow Moon Kingdom was ancient even before that. It was no secret that the White Moon and the Shadow Moon were at odds in terms of power.

When Serenity took the throne she started to forge alliances with the other planets. Mars and Mercury were the first to agree, Jupiter and Venus followed shortly. The outer planets, Pluto, Saturn, and Neptune took longer. Uranus never really did agree to the alliance. They were wary of the Queen of the Moon."

"They seem fine now." Mamoru muttered.

"Hmm, two thousand years later."

"I don't remember ever hearing about the Shadow Moon. Not even in astrology class."

Frost chuckled, that was a sound he knew well. "I'm getting to that." She paused and looked out the window, her hair flared silver for an instant. "Serenity had a single child, a daughter named Usagi. The young girl became the pride of the Kingdom. She was everything to her mother. Serenity always hoped Usagi would lead the Moon Kingdom and the others into a brilliant future. But she feared enemies would attack and destroy the Kingdom, so she along with the other eight Kings and Queens, developed a defense. The Sailor Senshi. Each Princess or prince, depending, would be given the henshi device of their planet either by their guardian or in times of crisis."

"You mean Luna and Artemis."

"Yes they are the Guardians"

"So what happened?"

"It's all so...complicated." She sounded so tired.

Mamoru frowned, "Setsuna said that earlier, what's complicated?"
Frost turned her head quickly, looking at him, "You spoke to Pluto about this?"

"She gave me your address. I asked her what the heck was going on, she said it was complicated."

Silence followed him.

"You came here because you wanted to know why I wanted your help. If you can't remember the past then I shouldn't attempt to ask for your help. You won't understand my motives."

"Remind me, you did in the park."

"I didn't like the outcome of that."

He sighed, "Please, Frost. Remind me. Tell me at the very least."

Frost was quiet again and finally sighed. "What I say to you doesn't go beyond this room. Do you understand?"

"Yes, but why should it be a secret? If it involves everyone-"

"It doesn't!" She snapped and had to take a deep breath. "That's just it. My presence here isn't about everyone just one person. The only reason I am sitting here and talking to you is for one person."

"Who?"

She sighed and looked out the window again. "It's a story you are very familiar with. I loved someone from the Past. That love was discovered and forbidden by Serenity."

"Why?" Mamoru had a sudden thought, it made him slightly queasy. "Was it Usagi?"

Frost laughed, it was a full bright sound. "No, no. It's not her." She looked at him with twinkling eyes, "Rest easy, Prince. It's not your belov'ed."

Mamoru felt his shoulders relax, "Then who. Why would Serenity interfere?'

"She was afraid of the repercussions of it. Serenity knew that without the eight alliances in place, the Moon was vulnerable to attack. She needed a solid alliance to protect her self." Frost paused and didn't seem able to go on.

"You weren't part of the alliance, why?"

Frost stared out the window again, "I had no desire to align with the weakest of the kingdoms. Serenity was desperate for the power and protection of the Shadow Moon. But her pleas for help only disgusted me. I said no. But I am not a totally monster. I told her that should the Moon ever be in dire peril and the alliances were not enough to protect it, I would help. But it was only under those circumstances. Serenity agreed and left. I never saw her or heard from her again. Until one day I received and invitation to her daughter's first ball. I went because my advisor thought it was a good way to maintain a positive attitude.

The Shadow Moon was not liked by any of the other kingdoms. It's not my fault really. I stayed out of their way, they stayed out of mine."

Mamoru was nodding, "That was the ball where I met Usagi."

"Yes, it was the first ever universal party. Every kingdom was there." Frost felt her throat tightening as she continued to speak. "You were not the only one who found love that night." She stopped and had to take a deep breath. "We met by accident. Both of us were hiding out in the same corner. She hated parties and so did I. We shared a common love of fast sports and were both runners and Kingdom Champions in our own world. I was also a celebrated Battle Champion and she was a fierce warrior. I wasn't musically or artistically inclined, but I loved both forms and I was an avid collector of some of the best works."

Mamoru gasped as it hit him, "It was Uranus."

She looked at him quickly, surprised. "I thought you didn't remember."

"I..." As he spoke he felt that flash of knowing. "I am starting to. You fell in love with Uranus." He was still astounded, "But why would that upset Serenity?"

"Think about it Prince, I was a Battle Champion and the Princess of Uranus was a fierce warrior. We were two very power battle-inclined kingdoms. If we had aligned, that would have practically crippled the Moon's hope of victory in war."

"Uranus would have fought for the moon."

Frost stared at him, the expression on her face made him go cold. "Would she?"

Mamoru was struggling with this, "Haurka is one of the most dedicated to Usagi. She'd never abandon the fight."

"She stays because the one she loves stays. She fights because that is what the people around her ask her to do." Frost shook her head, "I know Uranus, I know her heart. She would not fight if she did not have to. Her heart is in it only because those she cares for and loves, do it."

Another idea hit him like a thunderclap. "That's why Pluto is so nervous. You could make Haruka quit the team."

Frost looked away, but Mamoru didn't miss the sad expression on her face. "Yes."

"But you're one of the most powerful senshi; you must want to use your powers."

"No, I don't." She shook her head, her hair flared silver with every movement. "I hate war. It's ironic that I am so good at it. I have no competition when it comes to battle. Not even Mars or Mercury could challenge me. But my heart is for peace. My guardian used to say that I have the powers to end the universe and the heart to save it."

"You had a Guardian? Like Usagi has Luna?"

Frost nodded, "Both Moon kingdoms had them. Serenity gifted Venus with a guardian for their years of loyalty."

"Artemis." Mamoru was quiet for a moment. "How can you remember all this? I have no clue about any of this information."

Frost closed her eyes, "It's my curse."

"Curse?"

"I am the oldest, most powerful senshi to exist. Not even Galaixa could stand against me."

Mamoru gasped, "You fought Galaxia?"

"Yes, she came to the U.S. before coming here. I defeated her but could not reverse the effects of Chaos."

She stood up suddenly and went to the window. "But that's not the point. What I am here for is something that Serenity denied me two thousand years ago."

"You want Uranus back."

Frost watched him via the glass, "You make that sound like a crime, Prince."

Mamoru realized that 'prince' was a name she used for him. "Haruka loves Michiru. They've been through...a lot together. Their love is unshakable."

Frost shifted her gaze to beyond the window. "That's only because she does not remember me."

"You're saying Serenity made Uranus forget you?"

"Yes."

"Because she was afraid you would ask Uranus to not fight?"

"Yes."

Mamoru shook his head, "No, Serenity wouldn't do that."

Frost spun around; her eyes flared a frightening color, "YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT SHE DID!"

He stared at her, startled. "Serenity was a kind person."

Frost cursed and turned her back on him, "Kind? What do you know? Your knowledge comes from a Guardian led regression to a shattered kingdom. Your memories come from the love of her daughter. Think, Prince. They're only going to be good memories."

Mamoru was quiet for a long time. "Frost, listen. I can't be of help to you in regards to Haruka. I don't even understand this at all. But what I do understand and what I can do is be your friend."

Frost hid her thrill of surprise. She kept her face blank. "Oh?"

"That's what you came to ask me in the park. You were asking for a friend..." He hesitated, "An alley." Mamoru spread his hands in a peaceful motion. "If nothing else, I can be your friend."

Frost stood staring out the window, her back to him. Mamoru wondered if she was even considering his offer.

"They cannot know about this." She said plainly.

Her words echoed Pluto's; Mamoru frowned, he hated keeping sercrets from Usagi.

"But you already keep secrets from her, Prince."

He jumped and stared at her, "You read my mind."

She gave a roll of shoulders, "What of it?"

He smiled slightly, "What else can you do?"

Frost turned and faced him; her expression was grim. "Agree to silence, or this ends here."

He sighed, "Agreed."

They stared at one another for a long time. Frost sighed and for the first time evening, Mamoru realized she'd been crying before he arrived.

"Don't you have a Guardian?" he asked, "Like Usagi?"

Frost went back to the couch and sat down, "I used to; but Serenity separated us. I haven't seen him in...a while."

"What kind of Guardian, a cat?"

She smiled softly, "Neocanus, is hard to miss, if you see him, you'll know."

"Neocanus?" Mamoru frowned, "That's an odd name." She shrugged, "Okay, so how do we get you back with...Neo-whatever."

"Neo is fine." Frost leaned back in the couch and shrugged again, "I've been searching for him since I was a child. I've never found him."

Mamoru looked at her for a second, "You've been aware of all this since you were a child?"

"Yes." Frost looked at him, "You and Usagi were friends growing up, weren't you?"

"Yes, we were, but I didn't know about all this until years later."

"Well I guess that makes me lucky. I've known this stuff since my first breath on Earth."

"So you've been searching to get back with Uranus for that long as well." Mamoru concluded, she stared at him and the look was enough. "Oh god, you and Haruka knew one another before this whole sailor senshi business."

"We were racing competitors on the circuit. Near the end of it, we were lovers. It was always interesting to race against my lover, I was never sure if I should win or not. If I didn't win she'd be all upset, saying I didn't try hard enough. If I did win, she'd be all up set and so on." Frost laughed softly, her voice carried a memory. "She was never boring."

"What happened between you?"

Frost lost her smile, her eyes grew dark. "Haruka left for Japan, with an offer to get on their circuit. Our relationship just fell apart. I tried desperately to get put on this circuit to stay with her, but my father interfered. Until a few days ago, I thought I'd lost her for good."

"She has no idea about what happened on the Moon or about you being Sailor Shadow Moon."

"None." Frost sighed heavily and crossed her arms over her stomach. "I've wanted to tell her. But I didn't know she was senshi until I got here. Just because I had my powers, didn't mean she would. I had no idea she'd been awakened."

Mamoru nodded, "Both she and Neptune fought together long before they met us."

"That's not surprising. They've been crisis all over th world for years."

Mamoru frowned at her, "You haven't been fighting them."

Frost shook her head, "No. I saw no need. Most of the 'problems' reverse themselves after a few hours. There was no need for me to interfere."

"But they're a threat to people."

The look she gave him, startled Mamoru. "You don't care."

"I told you. It's not my problem."

"You live on this planet, it is your problem."

Frost glared at him for a moment before sitting up straight and unfolding her arms. "Trust you to defend the Earth. Damn it, even when the Moon was in peril you jumped straight to their side. No questions asked. Did it ever occur to you, Prince, that there is a need for destruction and chaos?"

Mamoru had a flash in his mind, this was an old argument. They'd discussed this many times in the Past. As he recalled they never came to an agreeable decision.

Frost seemed to know his thoughts, again. "You see? There's a lot more to this then just romantic love and magical powers."

Mamoru sighed, "Okay, so putting this all aside and focusing on the present, how do we go about finding your guardian?"

Frost arched her brows at him, "What makes you think I need one?"

"Luna and Artemis have been instrumental to the Sailor Scouts. My guess is that Neo can help you."

She gave another shrug, "I have no idea how to find him. Like I said, I've been searching all my life for him."

Mamoru got a thoughtful look on his face, "I know that Luna just appeared one day and that was the start of all this. Could you have missed him? Perhaps you didn't see him?

Frost smiled, her eyes twinkled with it, "I doubt that, Neo is impossible to miss."

"What does he look like? Don't tell me he's a black cat?"

"No he's not a black cat." She was highly amused, "He's a black wolf." She laughed at his expression, "Keep in mind he's about ten times larger then a regular wolf, at least in battle mode. In regular form he is the size of a regular wolf."

"Does he have any markings?"
"Like what? Scars and such?"

"No, like a crescent moon, like Luna."

Frost had to think about it. "The last time I saw Luna she had a gold crescent moon, right?"

"Yes, she still does."

Frost was quiet again. "Neo has a double moon on his forehead." She leaned forward and drew the design on the table top with her finger tip. "Two crescent moons stacked on top of the each other. They're silver not gold, just like his eyes are silver."

Mamoru nodded, "Tomorrow we should start looking at animal shelters."

Frost sighed heavily, "I don't even know if he is here in Japan."

"Luna was here when Usagi needed her. Neo will be here for you."

It was dawn by the time Mamoru left Frost's place. She walked him to the elevator. "So we'll meet at around noon and start looking."

"Are you sure you have time for this?" She asked as they waited for the elevator.

"Tomorrow is my day off. I'm not meeting Usagi until seven in the evening. I can spend a few hours helping you out. I'll bring my car."

"No need. Leave it here. We'll take one of mine."

He arched a brow, "How many do you have here?"

She laughed. The elevator arrived, "See you at noon. Be here on time, I don't like to be kept waiting."

Mamoru drove home and for the first time in awhile, he felt restful. Perhaps he would sleep at last.

Frost stared out the window of her apartment and for the first time in a week, she felt like she could sleep. Turning away from the brightening sky, she went to her bedroom and lay down. She was a sleep in a moment.

Mamoru didn't have to knock on Frost's door, it surprised him. Japan was a safe country, Tokyo was a safe city. But leaving a door ajar was still not entirely safe.

"Frost?"

She peeked out from the kitchen, and grinned at him, "You're early. Good, I like that even more." She came out of the kitchen and shut off the light. "Shall we go?"

He smiled; whenever he arrived early for Usagi, she would panic and start rushing everywhere. "Yes."

She picked up her keys and allowed him to close the door. Frost locked it and they went down to the elevator.

"I wanted to mention that it's not wise to leave your door open like that."

She smiled at him, "Don't be silly, I knew you were on your way up."

He let it go and didn't speak again until he saw her car in the garage. "This is yours?"

She smiled and nodded, "Do you like it? She's my favorite car."

"This is amazing." he slid into the passenger side and the engine growled to life. "I didn't even realize it was available yet."

"They're not. My sponsor gave it to me a few months ago. Perhaps I'll let you drive it one day."

They raced through the city.

Several hours later, they returned to the garage. Frost sat behind the wheel and sighed heavily. "It was a bust."

"Don't worry, like I said, Neo will show up."

"Yeah. I guess." She turned off the car and they got out. "It's almost six, you should start getting ready to meet Usagi."

Frost and Mamoru walked to his car and he took out his keys. She admired his car.

"This is rare."

He smiled, "That's why I like it."

Frost stepped back as he got in, "Hey, thanks for your help today."

"Your welcome." He glanced at her as he closed the door, "Don't worry okay?"

She wished it was that simple, "You know, Prince, there is a hell of a lot to this situation."

"Yes there is, and you'll be just fine."

She leaned down and smiled at him, "Just like you, to always be the calm voice of reason."

He looked into her eyes and saw the flicker of doubt. "We'll look again tomorrow." Then he frowned, "Oh, wait, I promised to spend the day with Usagi. The others will be there, its a group thing."

She sighed, "That's okay. I can look on my own."

"No, no. Come with us. We're going to the zoo. There are a couple animal shelters near by, perhaps Neo is there."

"I don't want to be a ninth wheel."

He laughed, "You won't be. Can you find the zoo?"

"Yes. I'll take the train."

He nodded, "Good plan." He focused on starting the car and glanced at her again, "See you tomorrow."

Frost stepped further away and waved, "Have fun tonight."

Usagi had to admit she was relieved, Mamoru was back to his normal wonderful self and she was happy to see it. The last few days had really made her worry. She brushed the thoughts aside and focused on enjoying herself.

The next afternoon they whole group was at the zoo. It was wonderfully warm and the area was busy with people. As they made their way toward the Canine area, Mamoru wondered where Frost was. She had said she would come. He reasoned she was at the shelters, looking for Neo.

"Mamo-chan, look at that one!" Usagi drew his focus to the wolf area.

He looked over and had to squint to see the large black wolf lying in the deep shade. He opened his eyes as if sensing the stares; his eyes were brilliant silver. Mamoru was startled and looked closer, did he have a double crescent moon marking? He couldn't tell.

"He's a large wolf." Makoto noted, "Larger then average."

Mamoru was convinced this was Neo. But what was he doing a zoo? Better yet, how could they get him out? As he was considering the question a chill went up his spine. He turned and there was Frost, making her way toward them. She was in black jeans and a black t-shirt. Mirrored sunglasses shielded her eyes, her hair was loose and waved around her hips as she walked.

She arched a brow as his stare; he nodded with his head to the wolf cage. She looked and her mouth dropped. Frost edged her way to the front and stared at the black wolf inside.

Neo lifted his head now, his focus on Frost. After a moment of staring he stood up and stretched his large body. His shook out his black body and jumped gracefully to the ground. He walked over to where she stood and moved to his hind legs. His giant front paws pressing against the protective bars.

The crowd began to scatter; Mamoru made a point of herding everyone away from the cage. He'd promised to hid Frost's senshi identity.

He glanced back as he hurried them away. Frost had leaned over the bar. She reached one hand over and touched that large head, there was no mark. The instant she touched him, silver light flashed for a second. When it cleared there was a double crescent moon on his forehead.

Mamoru smiled to himself and looked back to the group. He would meet Frost later and talk to her then.

It was well after dark when Mamoru was admitted to the apartment. He was thinking of asking for a glass of water, when he saw the expression Frost's face. It stopped him where he was. Frost was smiling and happier then Mamoru could ever remember her being.

"I told you." He said happily as he removed his shoes.

"I know." She waved a hand to the couch as she headed to the kitchen, "Prince, meet Neocanus."

Mamoru looked over and did a double take. The black wolf took up the entire couch; his black body glistened in the dim light. He lifted his head and stared at Mamoru with ancient silver eyes.

"Does he talk?"

"You bet he does." Frost appeared with a glass of water in hand. She waved him to the living room as she handed over the glass. Mamoru sat in an armchair across from the wolf. He sipped the water carefully, never looking away from the large animal.

"Hello Prince Mamoru." Neo's voice was a deep rumbling sound like a grumble of thunder. "It has been a long time."

Mamoru had no memories of the wolf, but nodded anyway.

Frost took up a seat on the floor at Neo's head. "He doesn't remember anything that far back."

The wolf glanced at her, a very human gesture. "Serenity did a good job."

Frost nodded, "I'll say."

Neo shifted his position on the couch, like a human rolling over in bed. "So, where do we begin?"

"How about telling me about the new enemy?" Mamoru suggested.

Neo blinked at him, "I have not yet studied them. I could talk to Luna I suppose, she might have some information." Frost tensed, Neo noticed. "My Queen?"

"Luna and the others don't know about...me." Frost muttered and drew her knees up to her chest.

He heaved a sigh, "Wonderful. That will make things much harder."

"They don't know who I am Neo. Pluto was hostile in our first meeting; I'm not keen on dealing with all eight of them at this point."

"It's not like you to run from a challenge." He commented dryly and stood up, he jumped off the couch and positioned himself so both people could see him. He sat down and looked incredibly regal. "I am sure, Prince, that my queen has informed you of her purpose here."

"To get Uranus back."

Neo seemed to frown, "Indeed. Aside from that."

"No." Mamoru glanced at Frost, "She hasn't mentioned anything aside from that."

The wolf looked weary for a moment. "In order for the Moon Princess to attain her final powers, as Neo-Queen, she needs a particular jewel."

As if on magical cue, Frost's henshi device appeared. Neo took it in his mouth and trotted over to Mamoru. "Notice the black jewel."

Mamoru studied it, "It looks like the Silver Crystal, only it's black."

Neo snorted and took the device back. He took up his post again and set the device gently on the coffee table. "The Silver Crystal he says...My Prince that is only one of three jewels available to the Moon Kingdoms. My Queen holds the second one, the Black Star Crystal. The third and final jewel still remains hidden. Once we find it, Princess Usagi can attain her Neo-Queen form."

"Won't that put us in the age of Crystal Tokyo?" Mamoru asked worriedly.

"No, it will not. It will start the age of Neo-Tokyo. The event you speak of is still two decades away from happening. Your daughter has yet to be born."

Mamoru remembered Chibusa with fondness and realized that Neo was right. Chibusa had to be born and be at least ten or so before Crystal Tokyo happened. He relaxed slightly.

"How do we go about finding the third jewel?"

"That I do not know at this point. Like I said, I don't know what enemy we're dealing with. Once I know that, I can begin to make suggestions."

Frost sighed, "A few days ago, Pluto and I had to combine our powers, and it was the only way to destroy the monster."

Neo glanced at her, "What attack were you using?"

Frost frowned, "The usual one. The silver frost kiss attack."

Neo shook his large head, "That will not work for much longer."

"It worked against Galaxia like a damn." Frost said coolly.

"Yes, I am sure it did." Neo paused a moment, "We need to help you regain some of your old powers, you need your second attack."

"Who do we do that?" Frost asked dryly.

"Face some of the monsters on your own." Neo glanced at Mamoru, "I trust you are willing to keep this quiet, Prince."

"Yes, I agreed to it already. But why do you keep calling me 'prince'."

Neo stared at him for a long time, "Because that is what you are. Do you not know you are the Earth Prince?"

"I know all that."

"Then don't ask silly questions." Neo stood up and padded to the bedroom. "Wake me for dinner, my Queen."

"Right." Frost was smiling slightly as Neo disappeared into the bedroom. "He's really nice, honest."

"I noticed." Mamoru muttered and she laughed gently.

Continued in Chapter 4