Disclaimer: Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon belongs to the GREAT Naoko Takeuchi.
I just borrowed her characters and made my own plot line. This is an AU fanfiction! That means anything goes… If you wanna bitch about my writing make an appointment with my ass and kiss it! If you don't like my story DO NOT READ IT! If you have any questions please feel free to ask. 8-P
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT, my one and ONLY Reviewer SAILOR LUNA KITTY! I'm soo Happy people are reading my story I didn't really expect a lot of reviews, obviously because it was the first chapter and all, but a little inspiration and ideas wouldn't hurt.
Thought and News Cast
"...speaking..."
NOW ON WITH THE STORY!
If you fall, I'll catch you…
The Crown karaoke was demolished a few years ago when the American franchise boom erupted and invaded foreign shores. The Starbucks Nation had assaulted…
Stopping for a cup of rejuvenating java and discussion was common for the fabulous five. There hadn't been a paranormal attack on Japan in three years, no word from the future, all was calm and peaceful.
They were best friends, had been almost for forever if you wanna be technical; five completely different lives that would intersect once or twice a week to 'catch up'. All the girls were in their third year of college except for Ami, of course, who ended up earning college credit in high school and graduated with a BS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology one year after entering Tokyo University. Miss Mizuno, currently in her second year of medical school, would be starting an internship at St. Luke's International Hospital very soon. Minako Aino, now pursuing dual careers in modeling and acting; kept her Sailor V career as a Trump Card should the former not work out. Lita Kino, presently an established culinary expert, has a thriving new cooking program on the local cable network. Rei Hino continues her work as a Shinto priestess and is now officially head priestess at the Hikawa Shrine. She attends Tokyo University part-time as an erudite of philosophy.
"Welcome to Starbucks, how can I help you?" the cashier waited patiently for the blonde woman across the counter to answer.
"Yes, umm… can I have a double espresso caramel macchiato with extra whip cream?" She haphazardly dumped her Dooney & Burke purse on the counter and started to fish through its contents for her credit card, all the while continuing her conversation on her cell phone. "No Miranda! I want the Escada shoot…. I don't care… well fit it into my schedule, what do I pay you for? Figure it out, it's a shoot in Bali, bikini… just tell them that I'll do it… well cancel it or make them reschedule! You're my agent, start acting like one!" She placed the phone on the counter; it was on speaker, thus having two free hands to dig for her card. "YES!" the blonde exclaimed as she handed the Black Card to the cashier.
"So you do want me to cancel the DKNY gig?" Miranda asked in confusion.
"NO! OMG Miranda just have my schedule set out so I can look at it when I get back to the studio, okay? I'm late…don't worry so much… I'll call you when I'm on my way… uh huh… yes… take care, I'll see you later… okay? Buh-bye!" she ended the call, signed for her coffee and had her purse in tow as she picked up her drink. She journeyed toward a small lounge off in the corner.
Upon her arrival she encountered a beautiful blue haired medical student with her nose stuck in the latest edition of Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Medicine and Surgery.
She smiled to herself. It's so like Ami to be in a public place and not notice anything around her. She would still be sitting there, in her own world, even if a car blew up right outside the window.
"Hey Aims." The blonde interrupted.
The blue haired women glanced up, caught off guard. She took off her reading glasses and started to stand.
"Hey you, Japan's top idol, long time no see." She smiled warmly.
"I know. I missed you." The women embraced each other gingerly.
"So, how was Monaco? I heard great reviews about Roberto Cavalli's designs and that his models were 'Best in Show'." She winked.
The blonde sank into the red velvet couch across from Ami. "It was great. I've never worked that fast or hard before. European designers, high fashion in general, are so organized. It was go-go-go from the time I got off the plane. I loved it." She sighed and then took a sip from the macchiato.
Ami gulped her iced chai latte. She placed her cup on the coffee table in between piles of textbooks. Her dark sapphire orbs searched the blonds aquamarine eyes. Her face seemed to age within minutes transforming from aspiring doctor to noble sage. Her tone was soft but it carried grave importance.
"Did you find her?"
"No. Nothing, not even a lead; it's like she disappeared into thin air, it feels like a dream. Like she never existed at all, we remember everything about her but no one else does. Her parents deny that they even had a child older than Sammy. I don't know what to do," she stated while rubbing her temples. "Where are Rei and Lita?" she asked as an after thought.
Ami smiled reassuringly, "Rei's on her way and Lita called me and said she's going to be here in ten minutes because she has to finish filming, she's making Coconut Meringue Cake today."
At that very moment a dark haired priestess adorned in traditional chihaya entered the coffee shop. No one would have taken a second glance if it weren't for her disheveled appearance. If looks could kill, everyone within the facility would have burst into flames. She noticed the looks she received and composed herself, seeking solace she made her way over to the blonde and Ami.
"Rough day?" the blonde smiled at her long time comrade.
Rei glared at her while plopping down on the plush chocolate brown love seat next to Ami. "Don't ask," Rei sighed. Being head priestess was taking its toll. She also had school to worry about along with constantly performing fire readings in search of Usagi.
They all sat silently for a moment. The atmosphere was heavy; no one had anything to say. Minako sipped her macchiato, Ami glanced at her anatomy book uninterestedly, and Rei stared off in deep contemplation. None of them noticed the green eyed Amazon's approach.
"Who died?" quoted the bombshell brunette.
All three of the girls snapped out of their dazes. They welcomed the newcomer. Lita returned the greetings with a sweet smile. She sat on the red couch next to Minako and across from Rei. She handed Rei a cup, "Here, I saw you come in. It's a Caffé Latte; I know it's your favorite, right?" Rei nodded her thanks.
"So, it's been three years." Lita glanced around the group. The girls avoided eye contact. "We are exactly right where we were three years ago. How does a person disappear without a trace? I feel like a failure, I mean, we are her guards. We're supposed to protect her; we could've helped her with whatever she was running away from," she agonized.
"All I want to know is what she was thinking? Not a word, not even a letter, email or phone call. I hope she's alive so when I see her I can strangle her." Rei's eyes seemed to glow red with excitement, though she was joking.
"Poor Luna, how is she doing?" Ami gazed over at Lita.
"She's doing great; she acts just like a house cat, sleeps all day and is up all night. She and Artemis spend all night outside on the roof. I guess they talk about stuff. She was really depressed after Usagi's disappearance; I think she's come to terms with it." Lita glanced out the window.
"What about him? Is he going to come?" Minako addressed the new topic.
Ami responded in his defense, "He said he was going to try and make it. He said he felt really bad about not coming to see us but he's been out of the country a lot. I understand being Japan's most eligible bachelor is a tough job."
"Pssst…eligible bachelor my ass! More like the Machiavelli of the corporate world. Ever since Usagi left he's immersed himself in his business, he's changed." Rei sulked.
"Give him a break. I'm sure he was heart broken after finding out she vanished. He was in love with her." Lita stated.
"If he was in love with her, why on Kami's green earth would he break her heart?" Rei countered.
"We all know why. So just drop it." Minako's tone ended the discussion.
All the girls sat quietly sipping on their drinks, each girl reflecting and analyzing memories of this day three years ago, when the glue that held them together suddenly vanished. Most of the patrons within the shop headed back to work, their late afternoon break was over. It was getting dark outside due to the daily rain storm that seemed to hit everyday around three o'clock. The wind was picking up, it was colder than normal this season and the leaves started to change earlier. Fall was coming. The chime of the bell on the front entrance woke the girls from their enchantment.
"Well… Speak of the Devil." Rei was astounded.
The subject of their argument stood across the room from them. They were surprised, Minako shot Rei an 'I told you he would come' look. Rei just glared back. It was evident that Rei was correct, he had changed a lot.
He was about six foot in stature; dressed casually, at least that's how it appeared to the untrained eye. He wore a black long-sleeved sweater and white-washed blue jeans that were folded up making a two inch cuff and fell over black loafers. He was adorned in a navy blue New York Yankees base ball cap along with black sunglasses. He proceeded to purchase a drink and as he was walking over to grab a couple of napkins he spotted them.
Ami was the first to stand and embrace him. "Hey! Nice shades. So, the devil really wears Dolce & Gabbana?" she smiled.
He placed his cup on the center table, took off his glasses and looked Ami over while hinting a sexy smile. Taking in all the details he'd missed over the last eight months. She was beautiful, even more now than before, her hair was longer and it started to curled half way through, she had her bangs pinned back. She was wearing make up and a royal blue chiffon sweetheart dress. Wow! She's even filled out and no longer wearing sweaters or hiding behind her glasses. I've gotta keep an eye on her. Someone is going to notice soon.
He greeted Minako in traditional American custom, exchanging kisses on the cheek. He'd seen her just four months ago in France at the Cannes Film Festival. She was the diamond in the ruff, everyone wanted to know who she was after they were photographed hugging each other, rumors were flying like kamikaze. Every interview consisted of twenty questions about their 'relationship'. She'd changed also, she cut her hair and added low lights; it was braided like a halo in front then pinned in the back and it was curled all over making her look like an angel. She wore a white cotton babydoll tunic, blue jeans and white stilettos. Extremely fashion-savvy but that's what I expect from Japan's top idol.
He squeezed Lita's knee as he passed by giving her a reassuring smile. She returned it freely. "Long time no see stranger. How have you been?" She crossed her unbelievably long legs, her dark green velvet knee-high boots matched well with her hazelnut A-line business skirt, slit up the right thigh, and an ivory kimono-sleeved top.
He plopped down on the chocolate brown leather chair, "Great! I'm so happy to see all of you. It has been a long time. It was hell trying to get away from the office for a couple of hours but I really needed to see everyone. So…"
"It's a hard job dogging the paparazzi, huh, Mamoru? Or should I say Darien Shields. What do you prefer? I mean I'd hate to slip up in public and then have it splashed all over international entertainment weekly that the 'most eligible bachelor' in the world has a secret identity and actually has platonic relationships with four women. That might not work well for you image, Famous Man whore." Rei sneered.
"REI!" expelled Ami, astounded by her friend's behavior.
"Deny it! I dare you. You've had three girlfriends! Three! At the same time!" She held up three fingers to emphasize her point. She sat back and waited for him to defend his position but no response came.
"I was reckless, I know my behavior was erratic after Usagi disappeared but I needed to vent. It won't happen again, I promise." Darien sighed.
"You need to be faithful. Usagi left because you broke her heart. When she comes back…"
"We don't know if she's still alive. No one knows; the Tokyo police haven't found anything. I think it's great that you're moving on Darien. There hasn't been a youma attack or omen from the future all this time I think that is proof enough that we've irrevocably altered our path." Minako interrupted Rei.
"Or we're on a detour." Lita stated insightfully.
"We all miss her Rei but lashing out at Darien doesn't solve anything. He's living his life. If it's meant to be we will see her again. She's stronger than we think. I'm sure she needed to do something very important to leave without saying anything. I just pray everyday that she's safe and taking care of herself." Ami voiced quietly.
4:00pm – Tokyo, Narita International Airport Flight arrival at Gate 128, on time, from LAX Los Angeles USA to NRT Narita International Tokyo the arrival board flashed; signaling the long awaited return of Japan's Pop Culture Queen.
Her reign has been unchallenged for three years and it looks like no one will be able to take her down. Armed with Shitennou, as they are referred to by the locals, the Great Bleu Celeste has returned to grace Japan with their outrageous 'Party like a Rock star' mentality.
Once known as just a local garage-karaoke band from Sapporo, the capital city in the Hokkaidō region, they took Japan's underground scene by storm three years ago when they rocked local night clubs till the break of dawn. Though they only sing karaoke many of their followers love their interpretation of famous American mainstream bands.
Saying and I quote, "… the lyrics sound so different when she sings; it's almost like she is speaking from personal experience. It makes you want to cry but then when you look at her you feel ashamed to, because it is so beautiful."
All of the members are internationally known, each coming from different regions around the world. Rumor has it that they were contacted by the lead female singer. She voiced interest in singing with them and Bleu Celeste was born. It is also said that each member attended junior high together back in the states and that they've kept in contact since then. Little is known about them between that time and three years ago but we will keep you updated if anything juicy turns up.
This is Arisa Urahama with MTV Japan on Japan's new pop culture obsession.
CLICK…
The tall, strapping, long white-haired drummer of Bleu Celeste switched off the TV and tossed the remote on to the chair beside him. He stretched leisurely but was interrupted by the entrance of the equally tall, green eyed, long-haired brunette, bass player.
"How's she doing?" the drummer addressed the bass player.
He leaned against the lavatory door with a cigarette loosely-fitted between his thin pink lips. He fished his pockets for his vintage Zippo lighter. After discovering his buried treasure he proceeded to light his cigarette taking note of the flashing NO SMOKING sign.
He took in a long drag and exhaled slowly, "She hasn't spoken since we landed. I think she's nervous."
"That's expected, but what is she nervous about the gig or them? She knew that we might cross paths with them, it's a risk that she said she was willing to take." The drummer stated.
"I'm not worried about her; it's them I don't trust. We've been gone for too long. They're going to attack soon, the stars have predicted it. The planets are going to align shortly and then she must ascend the throne. The events have been set in motion. There is nothing we can do to impede it." He took another long drag on his cig.
COUGH… COUGH… COUGH
"Aye! You fuckin' bastard!" the voice came from inside the lavatory. The dweller pushed against the door which was blocked by the bass guitarist.
The bass player smiled cynically and just as his victim was about to ram into the door he moved away from the door thus resulting in the occupant tumbling onto the floor.
He glanced up to the roof of the aircraft taking in his surrounding. His glare turned toward his foe. "Can't you read? It says NO SMOKING! Are you trying to kill me?" he accused the bass player as he lifted himself off the ground.
He stood coming about three inches shorter than the bass player; cornflower blue eyes shot spears into the forehead of his nemesis.
In an instant the bass player was 'too close for comfort,' "The thought never crossed my mind." He stated while blowing a cloud of smoke into the younger man's face.
Cough… Cough
He waved his hand in front of his face in an attempt to clear the air. Then like a child he jumped into the chair next to the drummer and complained, "Mal! Make him stop?" the youth whined.
Without looking away from the window Malakai pacified the situation, "Leave him alone Nepharius. He has to sing tomorrow."
"Sure o' fearless leader." Nepharius' sarcastic remark was ignored. "Hey you," He pointed to the vocalist. "Go check on Zoi, he's up front with the Queen Bee."
"Don't fluster her feather Jed, she might strangle you. Speak at your own risk." Mal warned as Jed walked toward the front of the plane.
"Don't worry I got dis." He waved behind him reassuringly.
"How long does it take to taxi a plane to the gate?" Neph grumbled to himself.
"It's gonna take awhile, our arrival has been broadcast all over MTV for the past twenty four hours. Everybody who is anybody is going to be on the deck when we exit. We haven't been in Edo for two years. Everybody's really hyped up. I hope she's ready." Malakai spoke softly.
Starbucks Coffee – 4:00pm
"Oh shit! It's four o'clock already. I gotta go. I told my subordinates that I was going to be back in the studio right now." Buzz…buzzzz. "That's them now." She sighed. "We have to get together and go out somewhere sometime. You too Dare. I miss ya'll way too much." Minako stood from the couch preparing for her departure.
"I agree. Let's do something this weekend, I'm sure Luna & Artemis would love to see everyone together. I have to get back to the studio; I'm making Spaghetti with Arugula Pesto and Seared Jumbo Shrimp!" Lita smiled and then hugged everyone good bye. "Give me a call when you decide what you wanna do." She waved on her way out the door.
"I'm out. I'll call you with the details." Minako kissed Ami and Rei on the cheek. "Take care of yourself Darien, I will call you tomorrow." She squeezed his face like an older sister messing with her little brother. She flipped open her cell as soon as she was out of the store signing 'peace' with her fingers as she crossed the street.
"Well I should get going. I got a lot of homework to do, Plato awaits." Rei sighed.
"Rei wait." Darien reached out toward her. Ami stood alert but remained silent.
"Don't worry, I'll see you tomorrow." She smiled reassuringly. "Go home get some sleep, you look like you need it and stop prancing around in your designer duds." She patted him on the back jokingly. She then hugged Ami and said farewell then hailed a cab to get back to the shrine before rush hour.
Darien and Ami now stood outside of shop in comfortable silence; she held three text book and a shoulder bag. He held his sunglasses. "Do you need me to walk you home?"
"No I'll be fine I live two blocks away didn't you drive here?" Ami questioned him.
"Yea I'm parked on the next block. I'm trying to avoid the paparazzi and I need to get some air. It's hard to just get out and walk around lately. Sometimes I feel like a hamster caught in a cage." He glanced around to check out the area.
"I understand. Just relax maybe you should get back to your roots or invest in a house away from Tokyo. All this hustle and bustle can grate on your nerves." She stated thoughtfully. She absent-mindedly rubbed his arm.
He smiled at her then leaned forward and planted a kiss on her forehead. "Thanks Ami. Be careful on your way home I'll give you a call tomorrow." He about-faced and walked toward his car whistling a familiar Densetsu.
Unbeknownst to them the proverbial 'click' of an aperture closing caught the tender moment on film.
Densetsu is in reference to Moonlight Densetsu that is played when Usagi opens her Star locket. It is Serena and Darien's official love song, I guess.
The Shitennou (Four Heavenly Kings) appear in the 'Dark Kingdom/Queen Beryl' Arc. If you think you know where this is going, guess again!
MUAHAHAHAHAHA…HA...hehe
I am going to mix the English dubbed version and the original manga/uncut anime. I grew up with the English dubbed version so I really like that they changed Makoto to Lita I feel the name change defines her more.
If you notice any grammar problems please let me know asap.
Oh and I feel like adding an OC so BOLO.
PLEASE REVIEW! -bunny (Sorry I've been having technical difficulties & writers block but i will definitely post a new chapter soon.)