The Fiery Soul: Present Chapter Eleven: Pain, a Sailor Moon + Ranma Crossover fanfic

Attention Readers: Welcome to Chapter Eleven: Pain. I know it has been awhile since an update for this story, but in between college, the holidays, dental work I've been swamped on time. I am currently looking for a beta reader to help me continue to make The Fiery Soul a better story. I would appreciate any constructive reviews. Thank you and enjoy the latest chapter.

Chapter Eleven: Pain

General Matsumoto sat as his desk and began to read a file. {Knock. Knock.}

"Come in," General Matsumoto called out. He saw his allies. "Yes?"

"We have discovered who the Sailor Senshi are," replied Mrs. Kimura. General Matsumoto happily slammed his hands into his desk. His allies stared at him in surprise.

"Finally," General Matsumoto shouted merrily.

"Sir?" Lieutenant Captain Shimizu asked. "Are you okay?"

"Better then okay," replied General Matsumoto. "You could say I am ecstatic." He waved his hand and sat down. "Go on."

"Right," Captain Mochizuki began. "My plan didn't quite work out but data tables on residents living in the Azabu Jūban district have narrowed the list down."

"I see," General Matsumoto said. "Carry on. What have you learned?"

"Fifteen months ago, Minako Aino moved from Japan to England," Mrs. Kimura said. "Now that same day Sailor V appeared." She showed a picture. "Throughout her time there Minako had a white cat living with her."

"Could be a coincidence," General Matsumoto said.

"There is more," began Lieutenant Captain Shimizu. "Eleven months later Sailor Moon appeared in Azabu Jūban and protected it. A black cat like in this picture was seen tagging along with her." Mrs. Kimura showed a picture of Usagi and a black cat. "At the same time Usagi Tsukino got a new cat."

"It still could be a fluke," General Matsumoto said.

"One week later Ami Mizuno moved to Azabu Jūban," explained Mrs. Kimura. "That same day Sailor Mercury joined up with Sailor Moon." She showed another picture of Ami, Usagi, and Luna." General Matsumoto sat up and looked at his allies with rapt attention.

"It gets better sir," Captain Mochizuki said. "A week after Sailor Mercury united with her teammates Makoto Kino moved to Azabu Jūban…"

"Let me guess another Sailor Senshi?" General Matsumoto asked.

"Yes sir," Lieutenant Captain Shimizu replied. "Sailor Jupiter enlisted with the team." He smiled, and looked at his allies. "Now, sixteen days later, Minako Aino moved back to Azabu Jūban. At the same time Sailor V who is really Sailor Venus helped out the other Senshi."

"The best part is yet to come sir," Mrs. Kimura said. She pulled out a photo. "Two weeks later Ranma was seen in Azabu Jūban. That same day Ranma's curse locked and she changed her name to Rei."

"That was the day the last Sailor Senshi joined the team. Sailor Mars," explained Captain Mochizuki. Mrs. Kimura put the photo in her hand on the table.

"Here is a picture of all those girls who moved into Azabu Jūban at the same time each Sailor Senshi joined the team," Mrs. Kimura said.

"I don't think it is coincidence that they moved to Azabu Jūban became friends and at the same time a Sailor Senshi joined the team," Lieutenant Captain Shimizu said. "We know who they are now. We need to take them down." General Matsumoto put his hand on his friends hand and shook his head.

"Now is not the time for rash action," General Matsumoto said. He stood up and looked at his allies. "Clearly, the Sailor Senshi are more powerful, smart, and clever than we thought." He motioned for his allies to follow and left the room. "We need to put our heads together and plan things carefully or everything will fall out from under us. How long till we begin phase green?"

"Twenty-Eight days," answered Captain Mochizuki. He flanked behind his allies.

"The final phase is a month from that day," General Matsumoto exclaimed. "Phase red. If everything is online after that phase is done we'll plan our attack two months from today. Let's get to work."

"Alright sir," Mrs. Kimura said. "I will mark that day." (Too bad it won't work like you think.) Mrs. Kimura thought. (You are a fool General Matsumoto.)

At Makoto's apartment the Inner Sailor Senshi ate snacks and relaxed after another day of school. Luna and Artemis were off to the side lost in thought.

"We've been very busy since we learned of Xytar's threat," exclaimed Ami. "At the time we didn't know that his seven generals were forced to fight us against their will." She looked up from her supercomputer. "Are we sure that we are doing the right thing by stopping Xytar?"

"Why question this now?" Minako asked. She looked at her friend.

"We were devastated after Ayano Hayashi died," explained Ami. "We didn't know the consequences of our actions."

"And we tried to bring Mr. Nakamura and Ayano Hayashi from death," Minako added. She sat in her armchair and looked out the window. "And it failed. We couldn't bring them back."

"If we battle General Savaski," Rei began, "then we would be taking another life. We haven't even had time to mull over it since the Black Moon Clan arrived."

"What do we do then," Usagi asked. She threw her hands in the air and fresh tears fell down her face. "We couldn't do a damn thing. Not a thing as Xytar tortured that man."

"Damned if we do. Damned if we don't," Makoto said. Artemis and Luna walked up over to the Senshi. Artemis looked up.

"This situation is not by accident," exclaimed Artemis. "Your enemy knew this. I doubt Gao's people designed it like that. I think somehow someway Xytar has control of who becomes his generals."

"He knows that you all love life," Luna said. "That it causes a lot of pain to watch innocents suffer." She looked around, and shook her head. "That is why he tested you. He learned of your values and is now using them against you."

"Doesn't make it any easier," Rei said. "If we can't find a way to prevent it, then it means more lives will be taken away." She sat up and paced the room. "I wish there was an easy answer for all this." She sat back down.

"I can't stand by," Makoto said, "and watch life on our planet be killed."

"Although it may be painful," decided Usagi, "and we may cry. We can't sit and ignore this threat. If we do nothing and let Xytar destroy our world it would also be wrong. I say we fight." She looked at her friends. "We'll try and rescue those lost and we'll do our best to prevent any more deaths. Who is with me?"

"I am," Rei and Minako said.

"I can't back down now," added Ami.

"We'll stop Xytar," Makoto said. "And we'll find a way to not have any casualties."

"If that becomes unavoidable," exclaimed Usagi, "We'll never forget the burden of their lives." Each Senshi put her hand on top of each other and cheered.

"With your determination," Luna proudly said. "I know you'll find some way to defeat Xytar."

"You make me proud," teary-eyed Artemis said.

At the pier, Chibiusa, stood near the water. She held her Key of Space-Time in her hand. She smiled and looked at Usagi, Minako, Rei, Makoto, and Ami. Mamoru sat nearby.

"Now that the threat from the Black Moon Clan is over," sniffled Chibiusa. "I can go home. I'll miss you." She put her hand to her face and wiped away several tears.

"Take care," Minako said and she drew the pink-haired girl in a hug.

"Bye," Rei said. She hugged her and smiled. "If you ever want to visit and pray at the Hikawa Shrine again you'll always be welcome."

"Have fun and be safe," Makoto said as she hugged her.

"We'll miss you," Ami said. She hugged her and Usagi and Mamoru walked over.

"I'll miss you," Mamoru said. "I had fun playing with you." He hugged her.

"I'll miss you," Usagi said. "Take care." She hugged her, and they cried. Chibiusa disengaged from the hug, looked at her parents, and friends, smiled, walked over to the pier, and held up her Key of Space-Time. She looked at everyone again.

"Bye," Chibiusa said.

"Take care," Usagi, Minako, Rei, Makoto, Ami, and Mamoru said.

The portal appeared and Chibiusa walked through and disappeared from sight, and the portal faded.

Sailor Uranus and Neptune approached the old throne room and saw Queen Serenity. They walked closer and bowed before their queen. Her ghostly appearance shimmered in the room like a soft glowing light.

"My Queen," Neptune said.

"Hello Queen Serenity," Uranus said.

"Sailor Uranus, Neptune," Queen Serenity said. "It's great seeing you." She looked around her palace and sat up. "The situation has turned serious."

"What can we do?" Neptune asked. She looked at Uranus and back at her Queen.

"The important mission that you two have been assigned has taken a dangerous turn," explained Queen Serenity.

"Are the Death Busters getting more forceful in their search?" Uranus asked.

"Yes," affirmed Queen Serenity. "They are attacking more often."

"What about Sailor Pluto," Neptune asked. "She is dead." She looked at her ally, and then at her Queen.

"Sailor Pluto's soul is connected to not only Pluto but to the Gates of Time," explained Queen Serenity. "It will take time but after a long while she'll be back."

"That's good," Neptune said.

"I am glad," Uranus said. "We'll need her help in stopping them and Xytar."

"I have called you here for another reason," Queen Serenity said. She looked at them. "My daughter and her guardians are about to reveal their identities to close friends and family."

"Do you want us to stop them?" Neptune asked. She looked at her ally.

"No," Queen Serenity said. "They'll need help in order to take down another threat. The Vieal."

"My Queen. Are the Vieal really that big a threat?" Uranus asked.

"Ami has uncovered a lot of evidence," explained Queen Serenity. "The Vieal will declare war on Earth once Xytar is defeated." She waved her arm in the air. "You and the Inner Senshi will not win that battle alone. You'll need help."

"And what do you need us to do?" Neptune asked.

"Keep searching for the talismans," ordered Queen Serenity. "You'll also need to assist the Inner Senshi against Xytar and his generals." She looked at them. "Until the situation is solved regarding the talismans I would keep your identities secret from the public."

"Yes my Queen," Neptune replied.

"Should we remain in the shadows until the Inner Senshi need help with Xytar or should we help them from the start?" Uranus asked.

"That's a good question," mused Queen Serenity. "Since Xytar and the Inner Senshi are aware of your presence." She looked at them again. "It might be best to remain out in the open."

"Okay," Uranus said. She bowed before Queen Serenity.

"Thanks my Queen," Sailor Neptune said and bowed.

"Good luck," Queen Serenity said.

Ami sat in her chair and looked up from the Supercomputer and smiled.

"I am ready," Ami said. She looked at her friends. "Where are Rei and Makoto?"

"They are practicing martial arts," replied Usagi. Ami put away her Supercomputer and sat up.

"I take it they are practicing in the usual spot behind the Hikawa Shrine?" Ami asked.

"Yep," chirped Minako. She smiled, sat up, and walked over to her friend. "Are we ready to go?" Her friends nodded and they left Ami's house.

Rei dodged a punch, ducked under another, and threw her own. Makoto sidestepped it, and did a spin kick. The attack knocked Rei back, and she grinned.

"You are doing great," Rei said. "Our practicing and battles with our enemies have improved everyone's skills."

"Very true," agreed Makoto. "We still have a ways to go." She looked at Rei and smiled. "Are you ready?"

"Yep," replied Rei.

"Makoto, Rei," Usagi called out. Makoto and Rei turned around and looked at their friends. Usagi, Ami, and Minako walked over.

"I am ready to arrange a meeting and tell our family and friends about our Sailor Senshi identities," explained Ami. She looked down at her Supercomputer and back at her friends.

"What's the next step?" Minako asked.

"We'll arrange a meeting with everyone outside of Tokyo," replied Ami. "All I need everyone to do is tell your friends and family about this vacation and I'll take care of the rest."

"Okay," Usagi said.

"Perfect," added Makoto.

"All right," Rei said. "Is everyone ready to practice more?" Her friends nodded and they got into position.

Keiji Kino sat on his chair talking to his wife Rika. He looked out at the window for a second and then back at his wife.

"I wonder why Makoto decided to visit?" asked Rika.

"Hmm. We haven't really heard from her since she moved out," Keiji said. (Knock. Knock.) "Come in." Makoto walked in and smiled. She hugged her Uncle and Aunt and sat down. "So what brings you here?"

"My friend Ami and I have important meeting that you need to attend this weekend," Makoto replied.

"You know I can't go," Keiji said. "It's a busy time of the year."

"It's all been arranged," Makoto said. "You have the time off."

"How did you manage to get time off for your uncle?" Rika asked.

"Ami arranged it," explained Makoto.

"I'll have to confirm it with work," Keiji said.

"Since you are here," Rika said. "How has school been going?"

Ami sat at her desk and was busy doing her homework when she heard her mother come in. (I wonder if she is surprised that she has time off this weekend.) Ami thought. Saeko walked to her daughters room.

"Ami," Saeko said. "The strangest thing happened today." She looked at her daughter. "I have this weekend off."

"That's good," Ami said. "I was wondering if we could go on a vacation this weekend."

"That is a great idea," Saeko replied.

"Grandfather," Rei asked. She looked up at him and smiled. "Could we go on vacation this weekend?"

"Sure," Grandfather Hino replied. "I'll have to have someone watch the Hikawa Shrine this weekend but I don't think it'll be a problem."

"Thanks," Rei replied as she went back to her duties.

Minako walked into her home and saw her parents Kin and Yori. She smiled and put away her school bag.

"Minako," Kin asked. "How did you do on your last test?" Minako smiled and pulled out her test. Her mother looked it over and a large smile flashed across her face. "You got a whole letter grade higher than usual. Minako I am impressed." She hugged her daughter.

"I am glad to hear that," Yori added. "By the way, I have the weekend off."

"That is wonderful," chirped Minako.

"I miss Chibiusa," Usagi said in between a bite as she ate dinner with her family.

"I do too," Ikuko said.

"It'll be quiet around the house," Kenji murmured.

"Mom?" Shingo asked. "When will she visit again?" Ikuko looked at her son and smiled.

"I don't know," Ikuko replied.

"On another note," Kenji said. "We have a vacation this weekend."

"That's wonderful," Ikuko replied.

"I can't wait," Usagi added.

Past Scene

Violinist Michiru Kaiou: Sailor Neptune

Michiru swam in the pool. Her wet marine blue hair moved through her arms as she swam powerfully from one end of the pool to another. Her lover Haruka Tenou watched her swim. After swimming back and forth nine times Michiru climbed out of the pool and walked over to Haruka in a sexy way.

"We could make out here," Michiru whispered to Haruka. Her dirty-blond haired lover smiled.

"In front of all these people?" Haruka asked. She kissed her girlfriend.

"I wish we had the time," Michiru teasingly replied. "But we have our concert tonight."

"After our concert?" Haruka asked. Michiru kissed her and smiled.

"Perhaps," Michiru laughed playfully.

Michiru played her violin and Haruka played the piano. They played Beethoven's "Kreutzer" Sonata like they never wanted it to end. They held onto the last note much longer than the composer had written it in the score. Michiru and Haruka stood up and bowed. The audience clapped politely.

"Now for last piece," Michiru said. They began to play. At the end they bowed again.

"Thank you all for attending," Haruka said. "Have a pleasant evening." The two lovers walked home. They held hands.

"We can have some fun tonight," Michiru whispered into Haruka's ear.

"I can't wait," Haruka replied as she looked seductively at her lover.

Michiru walked home after her last class of the day at Keio University. She was near the park when she saw Sailor Moon and the Inner Sailor Senshi locked in battle with the youma Wveaxal and the droid Qverva. Calaveras was off to the side and held Tuxedo Kamen prisoner.

(Those girls look so familiar.) Michiru thought. (Why is that?)

In the distance she saw Mars duck under an attack and throw a punch. Wveaxal ducked under it, and threw a punch that Mars rolled away from. Mars did a spin kick and knocked her enemy away. (I can barely make out their voices.) Michiru thought. (But they sound familiar.)

"Crescent Beam," Venus called out. A beam began to charge in her left hand before she dropped her left hand next to her right hand. Both hands released a beam of light but it was blocked by Qverva. The droid threw her spear and nicked Jupiter. She recoiled from the attack and blocked a kick.

"Moon Tiara Action," Moon called out. She grabbed her tiara on her head, and threw it at high speeds. It spun towards the youma but it was blocked. Moon's weapon returned to her.

"Sabão Spray," Mercury called out. A thick frost fog covered the area but her enemies waded through the attacks with their own.

"Piercing Storm," Wveaxal said.

"Wind Gale," Qverva said. The two attacks combined into a large strong wind that moved at ninety-eight miles an hour. The attack struck the Senshi and launched them in the air and the next part made itself known. Thirty-five wind spears emerged in the air. The girls managed to avoid many of the weapons but were unable to evade all of them. The wind stopped, and the Senshi plummeted to Earth. Michiru saw each of the Senshi take heavy breaths.

"Not so smug now are we?" Qverva asked in a taunting voice.

"What are you waiting for?" Wveaxal asked. "Beat us and save your precious Tuxedo Kamen, Sailor Moon. Hahahhahahaha."

Sailor Moon's eyes grew in anger, and she attempted to attack her opponents, but Sailor Venus placed her hand on her, before she could recklessly charge. Venus shook her head.

Memory

"It is the duty of every Sailor Senshi to protect the Silver Millennium Empire from threats," Queen Serenity said in her throne room. "As Outer Senshi your job is stop external threats and to also protect Princess Serenity." She looked at Sailor Neptune and Uranus. "If necessary you may do so at almost any cost." She looked down and then back at them. "There are several rules, however, that you must always follow."

"What are they my Queen?" Uranus asked.

"You must never sacrifice innocents unless absolutely deemed necessary," Queen Serenity said.

"We understand," Neptune said.

"Along with Sailor Pluto you two hold talismans that can bring Sailor Saturn to life," Queen Serenity added. "She must never be woken unless I order it."

"Of course my Queen," Neptune said.

"Finally," Queen Serenity said. "Keep your distance from the Inner Sailor Senshi unless you absolutely must assist them."

"We understand," Uranus replied. She nodded at her Queen and her ally.

"Then I hereby accept your promotion to Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune with all the rights and responsibilities pertaining thereto," Queen Serenity said. "Congratulations." She stood up, smiled, and hugged them.

End Memory

(I am Sailor Neptune.) Michiru thought. (I have to protect them.) She raced around the corner and found a wooded area. She found a small abandoned house and entered it.

"I must protect Princess Serenity," Michiru said. She sat down, closed her eyes and meditated and felt the calm ocean surround her. The Neptune Henshen Rod appeared in her hand. "Neptune Power, Make Up." She felt magic fill her body, and she felt power from the planet Neptune flow through her. The clothes she wore vanished. A white body suit with a marine blue neck covered her chest and her lower body. A blue bow with a marine blue jewel in the center covered her breasts and a blue bow appeared on the back of her outfit. Two white gloves covered her hands, and small light blue heels covered her feet. A small marine blue skirt appeared. Half a moon upside-down appeared on her face, and a golden tiara fitted with a marine blue gem concealed it.

She opened her eyes, turned around and saw Sailor Pluto. "Welcome back Sailor Neptune," Pluto said.

"Good timing," Neptune said. "We can help Princess Serenity and her guardians." She headed towards the door when Pluto put her arm on her shoulder.

"We can't help them…not yet anyways," explained Pluto. She looked at her friend.

"Why not," Neptune asked.

"I am sure that you are aware of Xytar Lexeaba," replied Pluto. "And the great evil he has already spread." Pluto took her hand off Neptune's shoulder and sat down.

"Yes I am," confirmed Neptune. She sat down next to her friend and sighed. "Wouldn't that be all the more reason to help them?"

"The menace from Xytar is but one threat that Princess Serenity and the Inner Sailor Senshi are facing," claimed Pluto. She folded her hands. "In addition the Black Moon Clan is after Chibiusa, Princess Serenity's future daughter. Not to mention the Death Busters have Hotaru Tomoe and have corrupted her." Pluto looked at Neptune and shook her head. "If they succeed in waking up an evil Sailor Saturn then all life will die."

"We have to stop the Death Busters," Neptune said.

"That's right," agreed Pluto. "We must rescue Hotaru. There are two talismans that we need to find." She looked out the window. "That's why it is imperative that we keep away from the Inner Senshi and Princess Serenity so that Xytar won't become aware of our presence."

"I understand," Neptune replied. "Will they be alright?" Pluto nodded.

"I have no doubt," affirmed Pluto. "But we need to deal with the Death Buster threat without their help. They have enough on their plates." She sat up and smiled.

"Pluto," Neptune said. "With all these dangers why haven't you woken up me and Uranus?" She looked at her friend.

"Queen Serenity has always believed that every Senshi has a right to choose if they wish to become Sailor Senshi," explained Pluto.

"Has Sailor Uranus awoken yet?" Neptune asked. Pluto shook her head. "I have a feeling that she will choose to awaken once she learns of the situation."

"Of that I have no doubt," Pluto said. "Haruka always took her duty seriously." She walked over to her friend. "Still she must be given the choice."

"Of course," agreed Neptune. "When will we be able to help the others deal with Xytar?"

"We'll watch the battles and if they need help we'll assist them and remain hidden as long as possible," explained Pluto. "It'll take all of us including Sailor Saturn to defeat Xytar."

"It's good to be back," Neptune said.

"I am glad that you are back," Pluto replied.

End Past Scene

Rei knocked on Akane's door. Akane walked over to the door and opened it and saw Rei. She smiled.

"Hello Akane," Rei said.

"Hello Rei," Akane said. "Would you like to talk?" Akane sat down on her bed and Rei took a seat at her desk and faced the other girl.

"I know words haven't always been easy for me and I should have told you months ago but I was afraid," explained Rei. She fiddled with her hands.

"Afraid of what?" Akane asked.

"When I met you I was lonely," began Rei. "I spent much of my childhood on the road and all I wanted was friends." (Why is it that I hear her now?) Akane thought. She looked out the window and then back at Rei. (Did my anger at those perverts block the reason from my mind or was it love?)

"If only I had listened to you," Akane apologetically said. "I let anger cloud my judgment." She repositioned herself on the bed and smiled.

"You weren't the only one who let their anger control them," Rei replied.

"We were both jerks," claimed Akane. "I am sorry."

"I am sorry as well," Rei replied. She stood up and walked over to Akane and sat on the bed. "When Yuka, Aya, Saki, and Mizuki befriended me they accepted me for who I was before I even acknowledged it." She looked at Akane. "As the weeks and months went by it became easier being a girl." She paused and the tears came. "I had my own life and friends. I wanted nothing more than that but then everything got complicated and I didn't know what to do." She looked at Akane. "It took me over a year to make the decision that I wanted."

"Nabiki told me that I fell in love with you shortly after Ryouga appeared," explained Akane. She paused, looked out the window, took a breath, and looked at Rei. "Then Xian Pu declared that she loved you and I grew jealous."

"Minako pointed out to me a while ago that you had fallen in love with me," Rei said. "And I realized that I didn't see it."

"It makes sense now looking back at all that occurred," Akane said. She looked at Rei and smiled. "In our own way we made the entire situation more complicated than it needed to be." Rei quietly giggled and Akane joined her in a small fit of laughter.

"We sure did," agreed Rei. "I still hope we can be friends."

"Of course," Akane said. "I am glad that we worked that all out." She hugged Rei.

"Are you just about ready to leave for the Hamada house at Soka?" Rei asked.

"Just about," Akane said, smiling. "I need to pack a few things."

"Okay," Rei replied. "I'll meet you there."

As Rei sat before her father's grave and silently talked to him, the breeze blew in the air and her long black hair swayed in the strong gusts of wind. She didn't take notice as she remained entranced in conversation like a worker bee fixated on their task. Off to the side a ghostly shadow watched her. Genma held out his transparent arm but he didn't dare talk or say anything. He stared at his child, and heard his daughter talk.

"I practice the art every day," Rei softly whispered. She looked up and wiped a tear. "I miss you Pops and I miss you mother. I sometimes dream that the two of you are alive…" She held out her right arm closer to the grave. "But I wake up and it dawns on me that you are gone."

Genma's ghostly form shimmered and the lights shored through him. He stepped forward, and opened his mouth but a small hand grasped his shoulders. He turned around and saw his wife Risa behind him; she shook her head, and with her right hand motioned Genma away from his tombstone. Rei sat in the background unaware that her dead parents were close by watching her. They walked out of earshot but they were still able to observe their daughter.

Genma looked at his wife in shock his dead mouth hanging open. He put his hand up towards her face and his arm touched it. "What is going on? Genma asked. "How is this possible?" He looked at Rei once more and turned towards his wife. "Is this a dream or some place of punishment?" Risa looked up at Genma and shook her head.

"Neither," Risa plainly replied. She looked over at her daughter and a smile formed. "It is Rei's conscious and unconscious will and desire to reunite with us even beyond our deaths and with the help of the Maboroshi no Ginzuishō that will can become a reality." She looked at her husband and smiled sadly. "The powers of Silver Millennium Empire are fearsome and majestic to behold."

"If that is so why won't you let me speak to her?" Genma asked. He held up his hands in angst.

"Because it's not time," Risa replied. She looked at her daughter and shook her head. "You left her in the worst possible way any father can leave his child…and yet her love for you." She looked up at Genma, "and your love for her is not in question."

"Then why," Genma asked in annoyance.

"Rei has not yet fully come to terms with our deaths," explained Risa and she sat down. "To reveal your presence now would only reinforce your death and bring more harm than good for I suspect that she has yet to fully forgive you." Risa looked at a blade of grass shuffle in the wind. "And I have yet to comprehend all of your reasons and actions for everything you put her through."

"I wanted to make sure that she was the best in the art," Genma pitifully muttered.

"And yet your real reason and the one you refuse to admit is," interrupted Risa, "…was yourself. And look what is cost you Genma?" She stood up and held up her hand. "You killed me and stole away Rei from her mother and my daughter from me." Genma looked up. "You alienated almost all of our friends and became a wanted man." She put her hands on her hips and shook her head. "And finally when everything you wanted crashed and burned you took your own life and severely emotionally wounded our daughter."

"I…I…" Genma began.

"But it's not too late," explained Risa.

"Too late for what?" Genma asked. Risa turned and faced away from Genma and looked at her daughter once more. She whipped around her hair and it settled behind her and she turned to face him. The moonlight pierced through them.

"If there is one thing I learned these last twelve years or so," explained Risa, "it is that there is an all encompassing all powerful force that supports everything that works towards a greater good." She looked at the moon. "The Universe exists in one constant motion and even the bad teach us something new, something that we never think of in the time that we had and have and will have." She faced Genma. "Despite all you've done, all you wrought Genma, I know that one day you'll be there to protect our daughter and rescue her from the darkness and evil that she and her friends struggle against." She embraced her husband from behind.

"But why?" Genma asked. He looked at his daughter.

"Because you're a good man and despite what you've done you will always strive for good even when you don't know it." Risa turned him around and kissed him, and they hugged. "I believe in you and one day you'll believe in yourself and in your daughter just like I do." (But how? How can I after all I have done.) Genma thought. "For now though, we must watch, wait, and let the world affairs handle itself."

"I understand," replied Genma as he embraced his wife.

"Good," laughed Risa. "For the first time you've finally listened to me." She wiped a ghostly tear away. "I am so happy." The two deceased parents watched Rei stand up, gather her things, and walk off. In the shadows of moonlight Risa and Genma vanished, not once seen by the living.

At the Hamada household in the city Soka, all the families and friends of the Inner Sailor Senshi and Princess Serenity gathered for a meeting. Kho Lon looked around and saw many changes since she last visited the place.

"The household is a lot bigger," Mizuki pointed out. She looked around in awe at how many changes had occurred.

(I wonder how many of them realize what this meeting will entail.) Ryouga thought. "It sure has changed," Ryouga dryly commented.

"Thanks," Reina said. She smiled inwardly.

"They said the meeting would begin soon," impatiently called out Keiji. He looked at his watch. "I don't have all day."

"Patience," Kasumi said. "It will begin soon." Keiji turned to glare at her when they all heard a voice.

"Welcome all," a mysterious female voice called out.

"Who is there?" Yori asked.

"We are the advisors to," a male voice replied as he stepped forward into the light. "The Sailor Senshi." Everyone saw a white cat speak. "My name is Artemis and this is Luna."

"Am I dreaming," Kenji asked as he looked at the two cats. "Are those cats speaking?"

"Ah um," coughed Luna grabbing everyone's attention. "We are not cats. We are from the planet Mau and we are the guardians and advisors to the Sailor Senshi." All at once many people began to speak.

"Please be quiet," shouted Kho Lon. "We need everyone's attention. "Please carry on."

"Of course," Artemis said. He smiled. "After great deliberation, talks, research, and soul searching Princess Serenity and the Inner Senshi have decided to reveal who they are." He looked at Luna and smiled.

"I am sure that many of you have already figured out who they are," began Luna. "But before they introduce themselves there are several things we need to discuss." She looked at everyone. "Now we are aware that Sailor Pluto has already informed some of you who they are." Luna and Artemis smiled. "We thank you for keeping your promise of secrecy. Regretfully she has died in the line of duty and is unable to attend this meeting."

"Don't worry. Sailor Pluto is not permanently dead for her soul is connected to Pluto and The Gates of Time," explained. Artemis. He looked at Kho Lon. "Now we are about to explain the main requirement. Kho Lon."

"We have agreed," Kho Lon began, "that everyone must sign a document promising that they will never reveal who the Sailor Senshi are under any circumstance." She looked at everyone. "Anyone who wishes to not partake in this may leave and their memories of being here will be erased."

In an adjacent room, Usagi, Minako, Rei, Makoto, and Ami sat together in quiet anticipation.

"The meeting has begun," Minako finally said. She smiled at her friends.

"In a couple of minutes," Makoto said slowly, "our families and friends will know our secret." She looked out the window. "I won't deny that I am nervous."

"When we transform will they see the changes?" Rei hesitantly asked moments later.

"No," Ami replied. "To them the change will appear instant." Her friends sighed in relief and Ami giggled. "I know the feeling I didn't want anyone to see me naked either."

"Thankfully the transformation appears instantly to anyone else," Usagi said.

Kho Lon looked over at the last signed document and smiled. "We are all set," Kho Lon said. "We can bring them in."

"Of course," Artemis replied. He and Luna walked off and into another room and came back moments later.

"When they come out," explained Luna. "We need everyone to keep silent and their emotions in check." Usagi, Minako, Rei, Makoto, and Ami walked out from the next room and took their places in the front of the room. Usagi stood up.

"Hello everyone," Usagi calmly said. "I am Princess Serenity. Many of you know me as Sailor Moon." She sat down and Minako stood up and walked closer to everyone.

"Hi all," chirped Minako. "I am Sailor Venus and the leader of the Inner Sailor Senshi."

Rei stood up and walked over to Minako and grinned. "Hey all," Rei said. "I am Sailor Mars." Makoto walked over to Rei and stood next to her.

"I am Sailor Jupiter," Makoto said with a smile and when she finished speaking Ami walked over to her.

"And I am Sailor Mercury," explained Ami. Usagi walked over to Minako and stood proudly beside her friends. They looked at each other, smiled, and nodded.

"Moon Prism Power, Make Up," Usagi called out.

"Venus Power, Make Up," Minako called out.

"Mars Power, Make Up," Rei called out.

"Jupiter Power, Make Up," Makoto called out.

"Mercury Power, Make Up," Ami called out. Their friends and family stared out at them as the truth kicked in. They looked at each other and de-transformed and took their seats.

"Why did you keep this a secret from us," Ikuko asked. She looked at her daughter.

"Don't you realize how dangerous it is?" Kin asked.

"They have told us now," Saeko said. "They must have a good reason." Kho Lon raised her hand.

"May we please have everyone's attention," Luna called out. Artemis and Luna walked over to Princess Serenity and the Inner Senshi.

"We have a lot to cover," Artemis added. "We need to stay focused."

Just then, the room's temperature chilled and Tephra appeared. She looked at everyone and then focused on her little sister. She smiled.

"How are you little sis?" Tephra asked.

"I am well and you?" Rei asked in reply. Rei and Tephra hugged before Rei sat back down.

"How can this be? Rika asked. She blinked her eyelids multiple times.

"My name is Tephra and I am…" replied Tephra.

"You look a lot like Rei except older," exclaimed Grandfather Hino.

"Good observation," Tephra said with a smile. "I am Rei's older sister and at one time was Sailor Mars."

"How can you even be here," stuttered Yori. "You're you're dead." Tephra sat down and looked at everyone.

"That's right I've been dead for over ten thousand years," explained Tephra. "By the power of the Maboroshi no Ginzuishō, and because my soul is aligned with the planet Mars I am able to appear." She stood up and looked at Kin. "You are right Kin being a Sailor Senshi is very dangerous that is why Queen Serenity and her ancestors never forced anyone to be a Sailor Senshi against their will."

"Then why would you appear to support their decision to be Sailor Senshi when you know how dangerous it is?" Kenji asked.

"I could tell you," Tephra replied. "But it will be easier to explain by showing you." She stood up and began to channel. "Don't be alarmed. What you are about to see is my memories."

Scene

The Battle at the Border Outpost

Aiko Aino sat in a chair in a comfy room and watched her friends Tephra Hino and Miyo Kino spar while Akira Mizuno used her Supercomputer.

"Good block there Tephra," Miyo said in between punches as her brown hair swung from side to side. "I'll be ready for the tournament next month." She ducked under a kick and rolled out of the way from a spin kick. The quick jab was unexpected and Miyo put her guard up.

"With the way you two practice," mockingly said Aiko. "I think the tournament won't last that long Miyo." She whipped her head around and her medium-long blond hair settled behind her.

"Aiko, some of the best martial artists will be there," Tephra replied as she continued to block and evade attacks. "It's not like Miyo can power up." The two martial artists continued to practice.

"I just got a message from Queen Serenity," Akira said. Her friends gathered around her and looked at the blue haired girl with rapt attention. "Minako, Rei, Makoto, and Ami's Sailor Senshi training is about to begin. We've been ordered to return to Moon Palace and begin their training."

"I'll let the pilot know," Aiko said. "Thanks Akira." She left the room and came back. "He's adjusted course."

"So Tephra are you glad to be able to spend time with your sister?" Akira asked. "I haven't seen cousin Ami in a while. I miss her." Tephra nodded and smiled.

"I know the feeling," Tephra said. "We spent a lot of time together until we were sent on this mission." She looked towards her room. "No one had any idea how close the Dark Moon Kingdom had infiltrated near our borders until we put a stop to them."

"I can't wait till I see my daughter again," Miyo said and she looked at a picture. "I miss her."

"Well we'll be able to see our family again soon," Aiko replied. "It'll be nice to train cousin Minako." She smiled and looked at her friends. "In fact Queen Serenity told me that…" A soldier ran in with a panicked look on his face.

"My lady," the soldier said. "We just got a distress call from the Border Post." He wiped the sweat off from his face. "The Dark Kingdom has attacked it."

"How many?" Akira asked.

"We weren't able to get an accurate reading," the soldier replied. "We suspect no less than thirty youma since communications has been disrupted."

"Tell the pilot to increase engine speed to maximum," ordered Aiko. "And take us in."

"As you wish," the solider replied and he left the room. Aiko nodded at her friends.

"Venus Power, Make Up," Aiko called out.

"Mars Power, Make Up," Tephra called out.

"Jupiter Power, Make Up," Miyo called out.

"Mercury Power, Make Up," Akira called out. She pulled out her supercomputer. When Queen Serenity appeared on the screen she spoke. "My Queen. We just learned that the Border Post has been attacked by the Dark Kingdom."

"What?" Queen Serenity asked. "They have never come out this far." A frown appeared on her face. "The closest help is days away…good luck."

"Thanks my Queen," The Inner Senshi said in unison. Queen Serenity nodded and her face vanished from the supercomputer.

"Time to drive out the youma," Venus said.

"We must stop them," Jupiter said.

"We won't let them get away with attacking innocents," Mars added.

"We are almost there," pointed out Mercury.

The Inner Senshi teleported into the middle of the battle field and all they saw was dead bodies.

"They killed so many innocents," Mars somberly said. "So many children dead."

"Isn't this supposed to be a military base?" Venus asked.

"It was," confirmed Mercury. "Queen Serenity has magically altered the planet down below to support life and they had moved here to settle on it." She looked around and saw hundreds of mutilated bodies.

"What planet is it?" Jupiter asked.

"I would be glad to look it up when we drive the Dark Kingdom away," Mercury said. Jupiter nodded and the four Senshi continued to look around. They turned a corner and saw smoke in the distance. They jogged closer towards the roaring fire where they saw a large youma about twice their size. She saw them and cracked out an evil smile.

"Well well well. What do we have here?" The youma asked. "The Inner Sailor Senshi. The heroes of the Silver Millennium Empire have come to stop big bad me." She raised her right claw in the air and pointed it at them. "Oh oh oh this shall be fun." Her claw fell down to her side and she raised her left claw. "To me my friends. Our targets have arrived." The four Senshi found themselves surrounded by twenty-five youma and Commander Claw. "I Commander Claw will kill you now."

"You sound like you were expecting us," Mercury said matter of fact. "Why?"

"Simple really," Commander Claw replied. "You see…this Solar System is ours now and all life—all good shall be wiped out. Prepare to die." She charged at the Inner Sailor Senshi and swiped at Mars as fast as she could.

"And we will stop you," Venus replied. Mars ducked an attack, and kicked her enemy in the groin, flipped high in the air, and smiled at Venus who nodded. "Let's use our Quad Attack."

"Hey Commander Claw," mocked Mars. "Are you ready for some fun?"

"Wait what?" Commander Claw asked. "How did you get up there?"

"Jupiter," Mars called out. "Are you ready?" Jupiter smiled and jumped up in the air and bounced off a youma and turned it to dust.

"Time for your end youma," claimed Venus. She did a roll and kicked a youma, and flipped herself into the air.

"Alright," Mercury exclaimed. "Here we go." She ran over to a building and bounced off the side, kicked a youma into the ground and turned it to dust. Mercury, Jupiter, Mars and Venus nodded and each Senshi held up a hand and they began to glow.

"Sabão Spray Freezing," Mercury called out. The attack covered the area in a thick frost fog, and a large ice smaller then a car crashed into the air and smashed into three youma and turned them to dust.

"Supreme Thunder," Jupiter called out. Electrical energy began to appear around her. Soon a lightning rod appeared on her tiara, and it collected the energy, and she discharged the energy at the large ice and electrified it. Lightning now crackled around the large ice and it struck three youma and turned them to dust.

"Fire Soul," Mars called out. A small fireball appeared on her hands, and she fired the attack off towards the electrified large ice. The flames formed a spiral, the attack struck it and the splash of ice and fire struck four youma and turned them to dust.

"Crescent Beam," Venus called out. A beam began to charge in her left hand before she dropped her left hand next to her right hand. Both hands released a beam of light that struck the burning electrified ice and all the energy combined together and it blinded all their enemies. The beam also pierced through four youma and turned them to dust.

"I can't see," Commander Claw yelled. She moved around but was unable to see where she was going and she crashed into several youma.

The four Inner Sailor Senshi glowed brightly, and closed their eyes and their combined attack of ice, electricity, fire, and energy rose into the air. The mass of elemental force twisted until it was high in the air. It stood over its targets and it began to glow brightly. They opened their eyes.

"Elemental Quad Attack," Mercury, Jupiter, Mars, and Venus called out. The attack released a high power beam of ice, electric, fire, and energy down at the youma and turned all of them to dust. Commander Claw looked up at the Inner Sailor Senshi and smiled.

"So perhaps you do have what it takes after all," Commander Claw said and she fell to the ground and turned to dust. The Inner Senshi heard a sound and landed on the ground. They walked over and saw a large dark portal that rose several feet up in the air.

"Mercury?" Venus asked. "Can you seal the Dark Kingdom portal?" She looked over at her friend.

"Yep," Mercury replied. "I just need a minute." Mars looked over to her right and saw two youma about to attack a young girl and her mother. One youma held a spear in her hand. Mars ran off to help her.

"Mars," Jupiter said. "Wait for me." They heard the portal make the sound again and two youma appeared from it. "Supreme Thunder Dragon." Electrical energy began to appear around her. Soon a lightning rod appeared on her tiara, and it collected the energy, and she discharged the energy in the form of a dragon at one youma and turned it to dust.

"Crescent Beam Shower," Venus called out. A light beam began to charge in her left hand before she dropped her left hand next to her right hand. Both hands released a large beam of light that struck the other youma and turned it to dust.

Mercury pushed a button on the supercomputer and the dark portal faded from view. "Well that takes care of that," Mercury said with a sigh of relief. She turned and along with Jupiter and Venus and saw.

Mars ran towards the youma who were now close to striking the little girl. (She looks five years old.) Mars thought. (I can't let her die.) "I won't let you hurt her," cried out Mars. She pushed the girl and her mother out of the way. One youma clobbered her spear straight through Mars heart and it went through her back. The other youma's claw slashed through her abdomen. They pulled their weapons out of the wounded Senshi of fire and jumped back a step. Mars fell down to the ground, and blood poured out from her wounds.

"Sparkling Wide Pressure," Jupiter cried out. Electrical energy began to appear around her. Soon a lightning rod appeared on her tiara, and it collected the electrical energy, and she released the electricity from her tiara. Bolts of lightning began to rain down on the spear youma and turned her to dust.

"Shine Snow Illusion," Mercury yelled out. Large drops of water began to form around her, and her hands collected the water. She aimed her attack, and unleashed a torrent of water at the other youma and turned her dust.

Venus ran over to Mars and held her. Venus saw her severe wounds and blood that formed on her friend's mouth.

"Mars," Venus sniveled out. Mars looked up at her friend and smiled.

"Are they safe?" Mars weakly asked. Her friend nodded. "Good. I am…am…glad." Her friends Jupiter and Mercury kneeled next to her, tears in their eyes.

"We'll get medical help," claimed Jupiter. "You'll be all right. You'll see."

"Not enough time," Mars replied. "I can feel the life force draining from my body." She slowly turned her head at the girl. "I am glad that you're alright." Energy surrounded Mars and instantly her powers transformed her back to Tephra.

"Mommy," the girl asked. "Why did Princess Tephra turn back from being powered up?" She ran to her mom, tears in her eyes and buried her face into her stomach.

"Tephra is dying," the mother silently said.

"When a Sailor Senshi is fatally wounded," Tephra answered in a cough, "and if a replacement has been selected then the powers automatically go to the successor."

"Take it easy Tephra," Venus said. She wept and held her friend. "What about bringing her back to life?" Mercury shook her head.

"We are too far away from the Moon Palace," Mercury said. "We won't be able to get there in time." She held onto Tephra's left hand and felt the tears flow down her face.

"So there is nothing we can do?" Jupiter asked. She held Tephra's hand. "She's growing cold."

"I had hoped," Tephra said. She turned and faced her friends. "That I would be able to train my sister and be there for her." She felt the tears fall from her face. "I can't tell you how proud I was to be your friends." Her breath shortened. "Keep an eye on my sister for me. Will you?"

"Of course," Mercury replied. She held her friends hand tighter.

"I was proud to call you my friend," Venus added. She held her friend with her left arm and wiped away a tear.

"We'll always be friends," Jupiter replied. Tephra smiled at her friends and once more at the young girl and her mother.

"I am so…so very…glad," Tephra said and her head slumped to the side and her eyes closed.

"We'll miss you," Venus tearfully said.

"I'll never forget you," Jupiter added.

"Good night daughter of Mars," prayed Mercury and her allies fell into a deep mediation state in prayer for their fallen ally. Mercury and Jupiter let go of their fallen comrade's arms and stood up. Venus picked Tephra up and carried her off to their ship. Jupiter and Mercury helped the girl and her mother.

End Scene

Tephra's meditation faded and the scene before everyone's eyes ended. She looked at everyone around her and saw tears in their eyes. She looked at her sister and saw Rei's tears and how visibly upset she was. She walked over to her sister and comforted her.

"I am sorry Rei," soothed Tephra. She held her. "I know how painful that was but I felt it would help ease everyone's fears about our decisions to be Sailor Senshi." A few minutes passed and everyone began to calm down.

"How does that horrible scene we watched help our trepidations and deal with the fact that anyone of you might die?" Kin asked. She visibly shook from her sadness and tried to stand. Rei looked at her, disengaged from her hug with Tephra and stood up.

"I agree it is never easy watching a loved one or anyone die," Rei softly replied. She looked at her friends and waved her hand and they stood up and joined her.

"Protecting a loved one, an innocent is why we choose this life." Minako put her hand on Rei's shoulder and hugged her. Makoto smiled and looked outwards.

"The society we were raised in," explained Makoto, "has never been one about exploiting anyone." She looked at her friends. "We may be royalty but our love for everyone is why we choose to protect those from Earth and at one time those of the Silver Millennium Empire."

"Like our ancestors before us we have considered it necessary but never easy to lay down our lives for others," added Ami.

"Protecting one person from death or suffering even if it costs us our life," Minako said, "is worth it. We may cry, mourn, and despair over the loss but it is the ultimate good to help those in need." Usagi walked forward and hugged her friends.

"It is much of who we are," Usagi added. She looked at her friends and they smiled and they all sat down. Luna and Artemis walked over.

"I know this has been emotional for everyone," Luna said.

"We should take a break from the meeting," Artemis said. "And give everyone time to think." They all stood up and people began to talk to one another. Tephra walked over to her sister and her friends and smiled.

"You've grown up so much," Tephra replied.

"It's still painful sometimes," Rei replied. "I miss you."

"As do I," replied. Tephra. She smiled at Rei. "I'll see you later little sis."

"Bye," Rei replied and the ghostly vision of Tephra vanished.

Ami, Usagi, Makoto, Rei, and Minako, walked along the streets of Soka.

"Well the meeting is going well so far," Minako said.

"All in all not too bad,' agreed Usagi as she walked alongside Ami.

"My uncle and aunt took me aside," Makoto said, "and they asked me privately if I was alright." She shook her head and grinned. "It's the first time they have shown any genuine care about my wellbeing."

"I took a nap," Rei said. "I needed to calm down." Ami saw an ice cream shop and smiled.

"We could get some ice cream and talk," Ami said. "We could all use a couple minutes of downtime." Her Senshi Phone beeped and the group walked over to an alleyway. "Nevermind." Ami looked at her friends. "General Savaski has been spotted at Azabu Jūban."

"Moon Prism Power, Make Up," Usagi called out.

"Venus Power, Make Up," Minako called out.

"Mars Power, Make Up," Rei called out.

"Jupiter Power, Make Up," Makoto called out.

"Mercury Power, Make Up," Ami called out.

"Senshi Teleport," Moon, Venus, Jupiter, Mars, Mercury called out in unison. The five Sailor Senshi held hands and they vanished.

General Savaski grinned and looked around once he appeared in Azabu Jūban. He smiled, and swung his scythe at nothing. (The Sailor Senshi will be here soon and then the fun shall begin.) General Savaski thought. He grinned as he saw police officers converge on his location and blocking the large crowd of onlookers from getting closer. (How amusing.) He walked around until he saw the Senshi teleport in.

"Welcome to Azabu Jūban, Sailor Senshi," rasped General Savaski. "I hope you've been looking forward to this battle as much as I have been." He flipped off the ground and appeared in the air.

"We take no pleasure in this," Venus replied. She pointed her right arm at him. "But we will stop you, and free you from Xytar."

"Don't let the hate consume you," Mercury said.

"We will fight you if we must. And win," Mars added.

"And break you free in the process," claimed Jupiter.

"For love and Justice," proclaimed Moon. "I Sailor Moon shall free you from Xytar's grip in the name of the Moon." Moon did a pose.

"And we the Inner Senshi will help you as well," Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Mercury said and they followed Moon's pose.

"How amusing. This I must see," General Savaski said smugly. "We shall see if your desire for perpetuance becomes your downfall." He spun his scythe. "I must tell you lassies your life has come to a forfeit. I would enjoy your last day on this planet if I were you. For it is all you have left." His eyes turned bright red as he descended towards his enemies. "For I shall not give any mercy and you shall receive none." His eyes turned back to their original color.

Mars turned around and looked at Officer Takahashi. "Keep them backed away from the battle area," exclaimed Mars. Jupiter intercepted General Savaski and began to dodge his attacks. "This battle will turn dangerous very quick." He nodded and looked at her.

"We'll evacuate them," Officer Takahashi replied and he turned towards his coworkers.

"There is no need," mocked General Savaski. "The people of Earth shall watch you fall." A large barrier formed around the battle area. "You are stuck here Sailor Senshi and one by one you shall die." He grinned as he continued his assault against Jupiter. "The only way this barrier shall fall is if I leave or die—and I have no intention of leaving." He heaved his scythe at Venus, Mercury, and Moon.

As the weapon flew towards Venus, the ground shook all around and sharp rocks, islands, and quakes appeared all around the battlefield enclosed by the barrier. Jupiter who dodged an attack from her foe was launched high into the air and scattered in the wind. Mars dashed towards General Savaski and threw a punch, and the two began to attack and dodge each other.

Meanwhile, the scythe headed towards Venus and she barely managed to elude it. It slashed Mercury in the knee and the small wound bled, and it knocked her off course and she crashed face first into the ground. Moon ducked it but a return sweep struck her in the shoulder and her deep wound bled. It made an arc and flew towards the airborne Jupiter who sidestepped it before it turned and quickly flew towards Venus.

Mars continued to elude, and throw attacks at her enemy. She smiled, ducked under an attack, and kicked her enemy away. She turned around and nodded at Moon.

"Fire Soul Bird," Mars called out. A large fireball appeared on her hands, and she fired the attack off towards General Savaski. The flames formed a large firebird but the attack was blocked.

"You must be getting complacent," mocked General Savaski as he impeded the attack. With his attention diverted for a moment…

"Moon Princess Halation," Moon called out. The Cutie Moon Rod appeared in her hand, and she began to spin the weapon around to charge her attack. She aimed her rod at General Savaski and unleashed a wave of energy. It struck him in the back and he staggered for a moment.

Venus looked up and saw the scythe crashing down towards her and she rolled away and it struck the earth. The ground rumbled, and the earth split. Tremors erupted in the area and the entire battle ground opened up beneath them. Sharp spires of rocks, islands, rose up from the six meter hole.

The Senshi and General Savaski fell down. Venus swung off a newly formed spire and landed on an island, grabbed Mercury and Jupiter and pulled them to safety. Moon crashed into an island and Mars jumped between islands as she made her way to bottom.

"Venus Love-Me Chain," Venus called out. An energy of light began to surround her, and she formed a chain with hearts. She released the heart chain at General Savaski and the chain grabbed him. She released the chain and threw him into a spire and he crashed down into the bottom of the new hole.

"Supreme Thunder Dragon," Jupiter called out. Electrical energy began to appear around her. Soon a lightning rod appeared on her tiara, and it collected the energy, and she discharged the energy in the form of a dragon at General Savaski.

"Sabão Spray Freezing," Mercury called out. The attack covered the area in a thick frost fog, and a large chunk of ice hurled at General Savaski and the combined attacks knocked him down. The Senshi meanwhile leaped down and met up with Mars.

"Most impressive," praised General Savaski as he stood up. He looked at the gathered Senshi. "Now I know why you pushed General Isagotichi and General Caserillax to the brink and to defeat." He smiled, and gathered his hands to his chest. He stumbled back a step and his many wounds became apparent. "You are indeed a worthy opponent." He held his right arm at them. "Now prepare yourself for the real fight."

"You can barely stand," observed Jupiter.

"We should be careful," Mars carefully said and she looked at her allies. "Remember the last two fights."

"Right. They held onto some kind of secret weapon," Mercury added.

"As long as we work together we shall be fine," Venus said.

"We won't lose," finished Moon. She walked a step closer towards her enemy.

"I admire your courage and resolute behavior," complimented General Savaski. "Who knew that I would be forced to unleash such powers." He closed his eyes and smiled.

"I feel vast amounts evil radiating from him," Mars said. "Back up." Her allies backed off.

"Very well. So be it," called out General Savaski. He raised his left arm above his head and his gold glove vanished. The gray trench coat lining on that arm faded and darkness began to appear. It swirled around his entire arm and in seconds his skin was gone, replaced by swirling darkness and bones. He opened his eye lids and all they saw was an eyeless face. His former blond hair was now black and an eerie uncomfortable evil surrounded him.

"That is creepy in so many ways," shuddered Venus. She held her position despite her and her allies' growing fear.

"We'll need to stay on our toes," exclaimed Mercury as she looked up from her supercomputer. "All of his injuries have been healed and he is way more powerful than he was before."

"Stay calm," Moon added. "We can do this." She nodded at her allies. "I know we can."

"We can't back down—not now," Jupiter said. She readied herself. General Savaski stepped forward and as he walked the ground shook.

"Just remember to never let fear control you," warned Mars.

"Time to face your doom Senshi Team," boomed General Savaski. "Surely you must realize." He stepped closer and closer. "You are doomed. I shall enjoy taking you apart piece by piece. Mwhahahahaha." He held up his scythe and it doubled in size. The weapon was now covered by pieces of dirt all around it. He swung the weapon at his foes and the earth around them shook violently. The land changed shape all around them; new islands and rocky spires formed, and old ones vanished. Without warning, he dashed towards Moon and swung his weapon. She ducked under the attack and rolled out of the way. The earth around them shook and rumbled and the landscape changed again.

Mars, Venus, Mercury, and Jupiter were scattered around the battle field as they avoided the crushing earth around them.

Sailor Uranus and Neptune arrived at the battle just as the Inner Senshi avoided the large swinging scythe.

"Just in time," Neptune said. "Looks like they could use some help."

"Indeed," agreed Uranus. "General Savaski's power is fearsome indeed." She saw the barrier and took off.

"Wait," Neptune said. (Not now.) Neptune thought. (Damn. Why now.) "The Death Busters have attacked an innocent."

"But," began Uranus. She looked at the barrier and then her ally. "Princess Serenity and Inner Senshi need our help."

"You are right," agreed Neptune. "And they'll get it but we must stop the other attack first." Uranus nodded and the two dashed off.

Moon ducked under a heavy swing from the scythe, and rolled away from a grab by the dark hand. She kicked General Savaski and knocked him away. She took a breath and helped Jupiter up. General Savaski stood up.

Mercury, meanwhile, avoided the constantly changing geo structures all around her and smiled when her enemy crashed into the ground. She ran and helped Mars up and the two narrowly avoided a rock that crashed onto the ground.

Venus ducked from under a falling spire, and jumped in the air to avoid a tremor and landed on the ground when she saw Moon kick the changed general away. "Crescent Beam Shower," Venus called out. A light beam began to charge in her left hand before she dropped her left hand next to her right hand. Both hands released a large beam of light that struck General Savaski. He fell back to the ground then jumped in the air and righted himself.

"You lassies are handling yourselves well so far," complimented General Savaski. He leaped and floated in the air. "Now let's see how you can handle this." He raised his scythe in air. "Oh dark powers of death and destruction I beseech ye, bring thy poison to thy enemies. Poison Ball Fall." The area within the barrier turned green and tremors shook. Poison balls the size of cars began to fall from the sky. When they struck the barrier, a raised platform of earth or the ground the liquid splashed out several meters.

"What the hell," Jupiter shouted as she dodged a green ball.

"Watch for them," warned Mercury. "Our power as Senshi prevents us from being poisoned but it won't protect us from the actual impact." She rolled away from one that splashed into the ground. Its corrosive chemicals ate away at the earth.

"Great. First the earth constantly changes, General Savaski gets zombiefied, and now giant balls of poison are trying to crush us. How fun," joked Venus as she evaded a falling poison ball.

"Oh come on," smirked Mars. "It isn't that bad." She smiled as she evaded a ball and another structure of earth changing.

"How can you two make jokes at a time like this," scolded Moon. She twirled her way to safety. "We have our hands full. She looked at her allies and shook her head. "Oh well we might as well make the best of it."

"It won't be long now till you fall," rumbled General Savaski. He threw his scythe and it flew off towards Venus. He dashed towards Mercury and began to renew his attacks. Mercury found herself hard-pressed from evading multiple different attacks from many sources. Eventually he socked her and she flew into a rock and crashed into it.

Mars ran over to Mercury and helped her up just before a poison ball splashed into the ground. "Are you alright?" Mars asked. Mercury nodded.

"Sparkling Wide Pressure," Jupiter called out. Electrical energy began to appear around her. Soon a lightning rod appeared on her tiara, and it collected the energy, and she released the electricity from her tiara. Bolts of lightning began to rain down on General Savaski and he recoiled from the attack. He wiped the blood away from his face and grinned as Jupiter evaded another squashing liquid of death.

Venus meanwhile, evaded the attacking scythe by ducking into a space of formed earth. The weapon bounced off and returned to its master. She rolled out of the area just as it collapsed and was nearly struck by green water of demise.

"Now it is time that I unleash the ultimate horror," yelled out General Savaski. He held up his scythe and dark swirls appeared around him and the weapon. "Death Sickles." He tossed the weapon in the air and hundreds of smaller scythes flew out of the weapon and flew at incredible speeds towards the Senshi. Each Senshi found evading a real challenge as they came under constant assault from small scythes, poison balls, changing structure of earth that unleashed spires and islands at random, the giant scythe covered in dirt, and finally from assaults from General Savaski. Seconds turned to minutes and the battle continued on and on and on.

Mars evaded a mass of attacks and punched General Savaski in the gut and he impacted into the ground. "Venus," yelled Mars and the Senshi of love looked at her ally. "Think we ought to try that quad attack?" Venus nodded.

"I'll hold him off," called out Moon and she quickly ran towards General Savaski and began attacking. "Go now."

Jupiter kicked herself off from the ground and jumped into the air. "It's risky," Jupiter said. "But what choice do we have." Mars did a flip off the ground, avoided a death ball, and appeared near her allies.

"We can do this," Mercury said. She ran and bounced off a rock and joined her friends.

"Good call Mars," Venus shouted. "Maybe we can put an end to this stalemate." She jumped in the air and each Senshi held up a hand and they began to glow.

"Sabão Spray Freezing," Mercury called out. The attack covered the area in a thick frost fog, and a large ice the size of a vehicle crashed into the air and smashed into the ground.

"Fire Soul," Mars called out. A small fireball appeared on her hands, and she fired the attack off towards the electrified large ice. The flames formed a spiral before the attack struck it and flames formed around the electrified ice.

The four Inner Sailor Senshi glowed brightly and a shield formed around them and blocked off the attacks. They closed their eyes and their combined attack of ice, electricity, fire, and energy rose into the air. The mass of elemental force twisted until it was high in the air. It stood over its target and it began to glow brightly. They opened their eyes.

"Elemental Quad Attack," Mercury, Jupiter, Mars, and Venus called out. The attack released a high power beam of ice, electric, fire, and energy down at General Savaski and knocked him into a large spire. Moon joined her allies and smiled.

"That was wicked," Moon said as she and her allies continued to dodge all the attacks.

"Alright," cheered Mars. "We are almost there."

"That's right," agreed Mercury.

"Just a little bit more," Venus added.

"We can do this," Jupiter said as she took a breath. General Savaski stood up and took a deep breath. His wounds were very apparent.

"So I have been pushed to the very brink," rasped General Savaski. "Don't celebrate yet." He grabbed his scythe and threw it in air. It split into three scythes and each one grew. One of them had darkness swirl around it, another was filled with sharps spires of the earth, and final one was coated in poison. "Time to put an end to you now Sailor Senshi Team of the Silver Millennium Empire." He dashed towards Venus.

The dark scythe swung towards Jupiter, the poison one towards Mercury and the last on towards Moon. Mars evaded hundreds of small scythes that hurtled towards her.

"I call upon the powers of the Mars to aide me," Mars called out after dodging the small scythes. "Ancient Volcano." Her hands turned bright red and filled her with the spirit of Mars. Venus rolled away and the earth turned bright red, magma seeped up from underneath the ground and spewed out lava underneath General Savaski and ejected hot magma in the air for three seconds. His cloak burned. "Moon." Mars ran off. "I'll cover you. Get ready to attack the scythes." Moon nodded as she dodged.

Mars dashed off towards Moon, grabbed her, and pulled her away from the attacks. She nodded and took Moon's place of dodging the attacks from the earth scythe.

"I call upon the powers of the Moon to aide me," Moon called out once she had avoided the multiple attacks. She began to glow a soft yellow. Everything faded around Sailor Moon and the moon sat behind her in the distance glowing brightly. Moon did a pose. "Ancient Moon Blade." A large sheath appeared at Moon's waist. She unsheathed a large sword with four moon symbols on its hilt. The blade shimmered. The moon behind Sailor Moon vanished and everything reappeared around her. "This ancient blade shall be your undoing. I am Sailor Moon, and in the name of the Moon you are to be punished." She stopped glowing and jumped high in the air and before she landed she swung her weapon at the earth scythe and knocked it off course. As it was swung the weapon released a small moon, that homed in on the poison scythe and upon impact a small magic explosion occurred and tossed the scythe away, Moon sheathed her sword and it vanished.

"Shine Snow Illusion," Mercury called out. Large drops of water began to form around her, and her hands collected the water. She aimed her attack, and unleashed a torrent of water at the dark scythe and knocked it away.

"Final Thunder Dragon," Jupiter called out. Electrical energy began to appear around her. Soon a lightning rod appeared on her tiara, and it collected massive amounts of energy, and she discharged the immense amount of energy in the form of a large green dragon at General Savaski. His cloak was filled with holes, and charred from the volcano. His wounds became visible.

"Ooh," gasped General Savaski. He recoiled and Venus threw a punch. It stuck him and he staggered. "Oof." He threw a punch and she dodged but he grabbed her head with his undead hand. "Let's see you survive this." He kneed her in the face, and bashed her head with his, and picked her head up with his arms and swung her around.

Mars evaded a poison ball and ran off towards Venus when she was released. The earth changed under Mars and she lost her balance when General Savaski threw Venus. She sailed into Mars and they collided into the rocks with a loud thud.

Jupiter flinched when Venus's head was smashed and failed to notice the blunt side of a scythe smash into her. Her right arm broke and she crashed into her friends.

Meanwhile, Mercury evaded a poisoned ball and tumbled into the others. Moon ran over to her friends with concern.

"All you alright?" Moon asked. General Savaski closed the gap and held out his right hand. The three scythes combined into one large scythe that swirled with darkness, sharp earth spires, and poison. He was close enough to swing when he snapped his fingers and the earth stopped changing around them, and the poison balls just floated in midair. The Inner Senshi looked on wide eyed with panic unable to get away.

"Good night Sailor Senshi," mocked General Savaski. He readied his weapon and…

Sailor Neptune landed near General Savaski's side and threw a hard cross punch that knocked him over. Uranus grinned.

"World Shaking." Uranus called out. A streak of energy gathered above her head and created a large ring above her. She hurled it towards the ground. The ring floated above ground, it flew off towards General Savaski and struck him into the air. Uranus walked over and helped Jupiter and Mercury up.

"Sorry we that we are late," Neptune said as she helped Mars and Venus get up. "We got held up with another threat."

"We'll explain everything soon," Uranus added. "For now let's stop General Savaski."

"Of course," Moon replied. She looked at her allies and smiled.

"Are you okay Venus," Mars asked.

"A little shaky but otherwise okay," Venus replied. She stumbled but held her ground.

"I'm glad," Mercury said.

"Now let's put an end to this," exclaimed Jupiter. General Savaski stood up and looked at his enemies.

"So you heroes have managed to survive all of my powers," proudly claimed General Savaski. "Most impressive." He held up his right hand in the air. "Mwhahahahaha." He lowered it. "But you have forgotten one thing. My ace." (He must be talking about holding everyone down with the vines.) Neptune thought. (If he succeeds then we lose.) She sat down, closed her eyes and meditated and felt the calm ocean surround her. Water submerged around Sailor Neptune and protected her.

"Yajula Xaguerila Una Ba Nau Saoa," chanted General Savaski. (My divine powers unleash thy fury and imprison my enemies.) In a flash each Sailor Senshi but Sailor Neptune were held to the ground by incredibly strong vines.

The water protection around Neptune faded and she faced General Savaski. "Did you forget something," Neptune asked. Her enemy looked at her and flinched.

"But, but," General Savaski stuttered. "How?" He backed up a step from the shock.

"Meditation," replied Neptune with a smirk. "Now it is time to free you from Xytar." General Savaski swung his scythe and dashed towards her.

"I won't be denied my victory," cried General Savaski.

"I call upon the powers of the Neptune to aide me," Neptune called out. "Torrential Whirlpool." The sounds of the waves of the ocean were heard by all around the battle field. Seagulls chirped, and the roaring of ocean waves filled the air. Rough-and tumble-waters appeared under their target and formed a whirlpool that swept General Savaski up and subsequently released all the Senshi from their imprisonment.

"Princess Serenity," Uranus said as she stood up. "Finish him." Moon stepped forward and…

"Moon Tiara Action," Moon called out. She grabbed her tiara on her head, and threw it at high speeds. It spun towards General Savaski and knocked him into the ground and he fell in a bloody heap. Moon's weapon returned to her. The poison balls vanished.

"My Lord," General Savaski said. "I have lost." General Savaski's eyes closed.

A black light formed around General Savaski's body. Soon three feet of pure light covered the area. The light formed a pillar that rose high into the sky. The sky turned pitch dark across the planet; lightning fell and snow blanketed the ground as the earth shook and trembled.

"Congratulations Sailor Senshi," Xytar said profusely. "You have beaten three of my seven generals." He paused. "I wonder if you'll have what it takes to beat the fourth."

"We won't let you get away with your callous behavior," proclaimed Moon.

"We won't let you get away with any more murders," Mars added. She struggled to stand.

"Oh and you think you can stop me?" Xytar asked.

"We know we will," countered Jupiter.

"After all we have love on our side," exclaimed Venus with a smile.

"Goodness will prevail over your evil," Neptune said.

"And we'll find a way to save all the innocents whom you forced to be generals," Mercury added.

"We won't stop," claimed Uranus. She waved her hand in a victory pose, "until your evil has been brought to a close."

"You have yet to experience my true power," explained Xytar. "Soon you girls shall know the meaning of pain, fear, doubt, anger, loss, hopelessness, and desolation."

The pillar of light began to fade and sunlight became visible again. The ground from the battle field filled in and the Senshi felt themselves being lifted along with the ground. Eventually the ground leveled back to normal as if it never had been disturbed. The barrier that held them prisoner faded. The worldwide communications ceased when the pillar faded from view, and a man began to fall from the sky. Sailor Neptune caught him, and held him. He wore a white lab coat that covered his chest, legs and wore small black shoes.

"This is…is Gao Talah," stuttered Mercury. She looked down at her supercomputer and took readings.

"How can this be?" Mars asked as she sat down. Gao's eyes slowly fluttered opened.

"Easy there," Jupiter said.

"I thank you Sailor Senshi," began Gao and he coughed-"for rescuing me. There was a time when I thought I would never be freed from that prison."

"Who is he?" Uranus asked.

"He is an alien from another world that Xytar destroyed over one hundred billion years ago," explained Moon.

"That's right," agreed Gao with a nod.

"What did Xytar do to you?" Neptune asked. He looked at the Senshi and grimaced. "Sorry."

"Don't be," Gao said. "He used his technology to keep me alive and forced me to endure the torture just to amuse him." He coughed and held up his hands. "Thanks to you I am now free."

"Is there anything you can tell us? Anything," pleaded Venus, "to rescue you and the two other generals from death and any future general."

"You are Sailor Mercury?" Gao asked as he looked at Mercury.

"Yes," Mercury replied. She looked at him.

"Look up the planet Xar," Gao explained as he coughed. "It is my home worlds name and it might aid you in your search in finding any relevant information." He smiled at them.

"We will find a way," proclaimed Moon as tears fell down her face.

"Don't weep for me," Gao replied. "Despite what Xytar has claimed you are doing the right thing. My soul broke the third dome from the Soul Barrier. The cost is my life."

"It's not right," Venus said.

"Mercury," Jupiter asked. "Can't you do anything?" Mercury shook her head.

"We promise," Uranus said, "that we will stop Xytar."

"We'll do our best to give you back your life that was stolen from you," added Neptune.

"I can feel the life force fading from him," explained Mars.

"We will make sure your efforts to protect our world will not be in vain," Mercury slowly said.

"I know you will and I wish you the best of luck," Gao replied. He looked at them once more. "I can't hold out anymore. Take care." His eyes closed and life faded from him. Each Senshi cried as another victim of Xytar perished before their eyes. Sailor Moon lost track of the time.

"Princess Serenity," Uranus finally said moments later. "We won't let you face this threat alone." She stood up. Neptune stood up.

"We'll explain everything to you soon," Neptune whispered so only the Senshi heard her. "For now you must trust us that keeping silence on this peril is paramount." She walked over to her ally. Sailor Moon and the Inner Senshi nodded. She spoke in a louder voice. "Take care." Sailor Neptune and Uranus walked off.

"Senshi Teleport," Moon, Venus, Jupiter, Mars, Mercury called out in unison. The five Sailor Senshi held hands and they vanished. They all appeared at the Hamada house at Soka and found a place they could power down.