Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon Sailor Stars: Chaos Theory
Act 29: The Guardian
By: Sora Kazeno
Sailor Star Maker quickly assessed the injury and said grimly, "It's really bad… she needs help immediately."
Sailor Star Maker's words hit Sailor Moon hard. She began to feel rage build up. Another person was injured again because of her. She wasn't frozen in place anymore. Her forehead began to burn. A spark of light began to emerge from her forehead, from her crescent moon mark.
The light caught the attention of Sailor Venus. She gasped when she realized what was about to happen. Swirls of white energy surrounded the base of Sailor Moon's boots.
Sailor Mercury became aware of the situation as soon as she heard Sailor Venus gasp. She was the closest to Sailor Moon and tried to talk to her, "Usagi-chan, you have to stay calm." She was afraid she was about to reveal herself as Sailor Cosmos to the enemy.
Sailor Mars and Sailor Jupiter rushed to the other side of Sailor Moon.
Their actions attracted the attention of Haumea and Deucalion. They turned toward Sailor Moon. Haumea smiled with glee.
Sailor Moon seemed to be in a trance like state. She stared at Sailor Star Fighter. She blocked everything else out. She knew the other girls were speaking to her, but it sounded distorted and muffled. The light on Sailor Moon's forehead grew brighter and began to take the shape of an eight pointed star; there was no turning back. The light flashed brightly once more and then dimmed. A soft glow radiated from the star.
"The mark of the Guardian…." Haumea said in awe. "Finally."
The energy shimmering from the ground at the base of Sailor Moon's boots began to travel upward. The crystal around her neck reacted to the energy, it flashed brightly several times. It was as if she activated her transformation item without a word. Her sailor fuku turned into dark pink ribbons hanging loosely around her body. The ribbons at the brooch began to turn white. Within a matter of seconds, the ribbons reformed themselves in a white sailor fuku dress. Her hair was pure white with heart shaped odangos. In her right hand she held a long staff. As the light died down, her eyes gradually opened. Her eyes focused on Deucalion with a piercing gaze.
Mamoru sat on the couch in his living room, rehashing the events of this afternoon. He wondered what happened in the memories Usagi recalled. He hoped they were at least happy memories. Suddenly he felt a surge of energy. Seconds later, an amount of light entered the apartment from his window.
He jumped up from his seat and rushed out onto his balcony. He noticed a large column of white light in the area of Juuban. All of the air rushed out of his lungs. She was in danger and he was so far away. He should be there protecting her. "Usako…" he whispers. He was about to transform into Tuxedo Kamen until he remembers how many floors up he was from the ground. He turned around and ran up to the roof, as he has done so many times in the past with a rose in his hand.
Haruka sat on the couch with her eyes closed. She smiled while Michiru played a difficult section of Bach's Violin Concerto in A minor. The music abruptly stopped without warning.
Haruka opened her eyes to determine why Michiru stopped. Michiru seemed terrified as she stared out the large glass window behind her. Haruka turned around in her seat trying to make sense of everything. "No…" She said softly at first, a column of bright white light lit up the night sky. "No!"
Michiru's eyes softened as she delicately placed her violin on top of the piano.
"Setsuna-san, Hotaru-chan," Haruka called loudly, "It's time to go to work." Haruka held her crystal pendant in her hands.
Within seconds, Setsuna and Hotaru were in the room, each holding their pendants.
Sailor Star Healer and Sailor Star Maker stared at Sailor Cosmos without a word. The enemy had won, they drew her out. But what was the cost? A noise behind them redirected their attention.
Princess Kakyuu dropped to her knees beside them. Panic was in her eyes as she examined Sailor Star Fighter's condition. "I need both of you to protect us. I'm going to do everything I can to heal her," her tone was firm. She struggled to keep her emotions in check. A part of her was amazed Sailor Star Fighter was still breathing, but she kept this information to herself. She gingerly placed her hands on the wound to Sailor Star Fighter's lower abdomen and closed her eyes. Her fingers dimly emitted red energy. Fighter had already lost a lot blood. She hadn't seen a wound like this since Sailor Galaxia attacked Kinmoku. "Her injuries are very serious…" her voice gave away the hopelessness she felt.
Sailor Star Maker and Sailor Star Healer turned their attention back to the fight. Right now they had to keep guard and pray that Princess Kakyuu could save Fighter in time.
Deucalion laughed joyfully, "It was so easy to call out the Guardian. We should have had the others do this sooner."
Sailor Cosmos was silent. She glared at Deucalion.
Haumea bit her lip. Now that the Guardian was found, she was afraid. She knew the lengths of her power. She heard about the stories. Even Eris did not wish to face the Guardian without the Master. Her comrade did not know all of this and Deucalion taunted her. Deucalion baited her with someone she cared deeply about. She placed a hand on her associates' arm as a way to tell her stop; it won't end well.
Sailor Cosmos raised her staff from the ground and pointed it at the two older women.
Haumea was terrified. She would have to dodge the attack and try to use a counterattack. She knew if she was blasted head on, it would be her demised. "Deucalion…" she said in a rigid tone, "She is a very dangerous person, we will have to work together to survive this."
Deucalion's demeanor changed. She looked at Haumea for confirmation, Haumea was scared. But she was never scared. What did Haumea not tell her about this legendary senshi? Deucalion wondered if she would survive this. She gathered energy into a small ball. They needed to attack her first.
The duo launched their attack seconds before Sailor Cosmos unleashed hers. The energy collided. When the light and wind disappeared the two were several steps further back. Sailor Cosmos was unmoved.
The Inner Senshi watched in awe with the Starlights. They had moved to act as a barrier with the Starlights to prevent any further damage to Sailor Star Fighter and give Princess Kakyuu as much time as possible to heal the senshi's lesion. None of them dared to stand in Sailor Cosmos' way.
Princess Kakyuu's shoulder slumped. She realized she could no longer heal Sailor Star Fighter. Tears gushed down her cheeks. She couldn't look at the others. She didn't have the heart to tell them.
Sailor Cosmos prepared to attack again, but Deucalion and Haumea beat her to it. She effortlessly moved a few steps to the side. She refused to waste her time on creating a barrier. Small shooting stars began to spin around her body and staff. The energy gathered around the tip of her staff. "Starlight…." She made a downward gesture, "Breaker!" The attack formation was very similar to Sailor Star Fighter's. The energy dispersed in the direction of Deucalion.
Deucalion unleashed a blood curling scream as the energy ripped apart her body.
Haumea could do nothing, but look on helplessly. She quickly assessed the situation and knew if she did not leave in the next few seconds, she would be next.
Sailor Cosmos let out a deep breath and said, "Everything is going to be different now that I don't have to hold back my powers anymore."
"Another time," Haumea said in an even voice. She tried to put on a brave front as she vanished. She dared not show her back to her, her eyes followed Sailor Cosmos until she completely disappeared.
Sailor Cosmos snapped back to reality now that Haumea left. She turned around and focused her attention to Sailor Star Fighter. She ran over to the other senshi. No one spoke as she approached them.
Sailor Star Maker and Sailor Star Healer were on the ground by Princess Kakyuu crying. The Inner Senshi couldn't look at Sailor Cosmos.
Sailor Cosmos felt her heart drop when she rushed past them to Fighter's side. "What's wrong?" No one verbally responded. Many sniffles and sobs were heard. "What is wrong with Fighter?" She asked, even though a part of her already knew the answer.
Sailor Star Maker tried to tell Sailor Cosmos, but all she could muster was a shake of her head side to side.
Everything moved in slow motion again, everything clicked into place. "No…" Sailor Cosmos said in disbelief. Fighter was strong… she couldn't. She dropped to her knees next to the fallen senshi. Sailor Star Fighter didn't move; she didn't breathe. "No!" Sailor Cosmos screamed in anguish.
Sailor Uranus, Sailor Neptune, Sailor Pluto were a short distance away when they recognized the scream of their Princess.
Sailor Uranus increased her speed at the sound. Her mind raced as a several scenario's played in her mind. The other three senshi were a short distance behind, none could match her speed. A few minutes later they finally arrived to the battleground too late.
Sailor Uranus noticed the Inner Senshi to the side of the Starlights and Sailor Cosmos, visibly upset. The two Sailor Starlights tried to comfort Princess Kakyuu. Sailor Cosmos cried over Sailor Star Fighter. Sailor Uranus kneeled down to the ground to speak to Sailor Mars, she seemed the least distraught. "What happened?"
Sailor Mar's sniffled as she cleared her throat. She kept it short, "Deucalion attacked Sailor Star Fighter to lure out Sailor Cosmos… she didn't survive."
Sailor Neptune kneeled next to Sailor Uranus in shock, "Can… you repeat… that?" She couldn't believe what she heard. "I'm not sure if I heard you correctly… Fighter…"
Sailor Jupiter shook her head repeatedly back and forth. "There was nothing we could do… it happened so fast. Princess Kakyuu tried to heal her… but the damage…"
Sailor Uranus sat on the ground, next to the Inner Senshi. "No one deserves that…" she said solemnly.
Sailor Pluto and Sailor Saturn stood behind the two Outer Senshi on the ground.
Sailor Saturn griped her glaive tightly. She had healing abilities, but they were severely limited. She brought death; she didn't restore people from it. She looked up at Sailor Pluto for direction.
Sailor Pluto watched Sailor Cosmos weeping form intently. "… Fighter may not be beyond saving. If anyone could save her it is Usagi-chan… look." She watched Sailor Cosmos closely.
Confused, the group collectivity turned their attention to their Princess.
A few tears fell from Sailor Cosmos' eyes onto the middle ring of her right hand. The ring began to glow brightly.
The Starlights and Princess Kakyuu shielded their eyes from the intensity from the light since they were closest to the source.
Princess Kakyuu began to feel hope for the first time in the past ten minutes. She knew Usagi was able to bring a near dead flower back to life in the Kinmoku, but to bring back a person from the dead? She wasn't sure if it was possible. If anyone was able of such an act, it would be Sailor Cosmos.
The Maboroshi no Ginzuishou appeared in Sailor Cosmos' hands. The sight of the crystal usually made everyone nervous of what it usually symbolized. The crystal was usually a last resort, one that could kill her. Sailor Cosmos was mesmerized by the shine of the crystal. The crystal began to sparkle. The light's intensity began to match the ring around her finger. Eventually she and Sailor Star Fighter were engulfed in a bright white light. The light was blinding. Everyone around them had to shield their eyes.
When the light dimmed, Sailor Cosmos was gone. She was replaced with Neo Queen Serenity. Instead of a large white bow on her back, she wore a smaller China Pink bow. Her dress was sleeveless and she lacked a crown. The embroidery and beading around her bust remained the same. This time they had a clear view of their future Queen. She kneeled next to Sailor Star Fighter. The crystal in her hands flashed once more and gradually began to lose its luster. It ascended to the top of her staff, to its resting place. A momentary spark emitted from Sailor Star Fighter's brooch. Neo Queen Serenity became Usagi. Her eyes slowly closed. She collapsed to the side of Sailor Star Fighter.
Everyone rushed over to the two, unsure of what they would find.
The Starlights and Princess Kakyuu were the first to reach them. Sailor Star Maker checked on Usagi while Sailor Star Healer and Princess Kakyuu examined Sailor Star Fighter for any changes.
"Usagi-chan is okay… just unconscious," Sailor Star Maker stated. She moved to the side to allow the other senshi to check on her.
The Inner Senshi rushed to Usagi's side, while the Outer Senshi kept their distance. They knew the others would take care of her. Their focus, as always, was to protect from afar.
The Inner Senshi crowded around Usagi. They needed to see for themselves Usagi was unharmed. They felt relieved; all their attention remained on her.
Sailor Star Fighter groaned softly as she forced her eyes open. Sailor Star Healer and Sailor Star Maker gasped when they noticed for the first time Sailor Star Fighter was breathing again.
The Inner Senshi were oblivious to what happened next to them, their attention remained on Usagi.
"Seiya!" Sailor Star Healer exclaimed.
Sailor Star Fighter tried to sit up. The simple act sent a shooting pain on her side. She winced at any movement. She looked confused at Sailor Star Healer and Sailor Star Maker. "What happened?"
"… You died," Sailor Star Maker told her bluntly. "Sailor Cosmos brought you back."
"Sailor Cosmos… Odango… where?" Sailor Star Fighter tried to form a coherent sentence but was unable.
Sailor Venus realized the all three of the Starlights were talking to each other. She was the first to notice Sailor Star Fighter sitting up and alive. She shouted in excitement, "You're okay!"
The three other senshi turned their heads and felt relieved to see Sailor Star Fighter alive.
Sailor Uranus chuckled in the distance and said, "It's not that easy to get rid of any senshi."
"Oh?" Sailor Neptune said, her full attention on her partner. "You sound as if, you two actually get along."
Sailor Uranus muttered a displeased sound at Sailor Neptune's last comment. "I know kitten would be upset and no one deserves a death like that." She turned her attention back to the other senshi.
"We should be going…" Sailor Jupiter said. She moved to take Usagi with her.
"Wait," said Princess Kakyuu. "I think it would be best if Usagi-san came with us…in case she has any injuries, I can help her."
Sailor Jupiter looked at Sailor Venus, Sailor Mars and Sailor Mercury for their input. Sailor Mercury and Sailor Venus shrugged their shoulders.
"But she has used the crystal many times before; she just needs to rest," argued Sailor Mars. She wanted to be able to talk to Usagi as soon as she woke up.
"It's different this time," countered Sailor Venus. She reflected on the times Sailor Moon had used the crystal in the past. "Normally… using her power in that way… it should have killed her." Sailor Venus' realization hit the other senshi hard. They knew she was right.
"I'm concerned about her two new abilities that surfaced in such a short period… if something were to happen, would you be able to help her?" Princess Kakyuu questioned the others politely. She wanted to emphasize this was different than before.
Sailor Mars parted her lips slightly to respond but stopped. She didn't understand Sailor Cosmos like Princess Kakyuu. She hated the idea that she would not be able to help Usagi with this. She could only help her with her premonitions, but those wouldn't matter unless she was intact. "… Call us if anything happens." Sailor Mars said softly in defeat.
Sailor Pluto touched Sailor Uranus' shoulder to tell her to let it go.
Sailor Uranus turned around to glare at Sailor Pluto in disbelief. She wanted to argue but the look in Sailor Pluto's eyes told her it wouldn't be right.
Sailor Star Healer carefully helped Sailor Star Fighter to her feet. It was a struggle for her to stand but their apartment was nearby. Sailor Star Fighter felt sluggish and her steps were clumsy. Without Sailor Star Healer, the short walk would be impossible. Sailor Star Healer noticed the crescent moon mark on Sailor Star Fighter's brooch. Her eyes widened but she did not say anything. She wasn't sure what it meant.
Sailor Star Maker picked up Usagi, "We'll be in touch as soon as we know anything." Sailor Star Maker walked away with Princess Kakyuu to her side.
"Wow…" whispered Sailor Venus after their departure. "Everything is going to be different now."
Sailor Neptune walked over to the younger girls to discuss her observations, "This is the second time we have seen Usagi-chan as Neo Queen Serenity in such a short period of time. Her time of awakening is approaching."
No one spoke.
Sailor Mars focused on the appearance of Neo Queen Serenity's dress. Her bow was significantly different. It was a pinkish purple color and much smaller. Could the change in her dress have to do with the change in the timeline? She had so many questions she wanted to ask, but she didn't want to alarm the others if they didn't notice. She could remain quiet for now.
"Sailor Neptune is correct, it is only a matter of time until she ascends the throne," added Sailor Pluto. "Everything you thought you knew about the future has to be thrown out. Everything has changed."
"I don't believe it," Sailor Jupiter said in disbelief. "She's too young."
Tuxedo Kamen turned and walked away. He arrived in the distance in time to see Sailor Cosmos sobbing over Sailor Star Fighter. She was in such pain and he wanted to comfort her, but he hesitated. It felt as if it wasn't his place, given recent events. To comfort her right after losing him. Then he saw her unlock another ability as Sailor Cosmos. She used the Maboroshi no Ginzuishou to save Sailor Star Fighter. Then he saw Neo Queen Serenity. Seeing her dressed that way was as if it was seeing a glimpse of what he was missing.
When she collapsed, he began to move forward but stopped when he realized her dress was different than the one he had seen in Crystal Tokyo. After he heard Sailor Pluto's words to discard the future they had seen. It was like he was stabbed in the back. He was a part of the old future. He bit down on his lip slightly to plan his next move. He has also been told multiple times that the future can still change.
He had felt so hopeful earlier today to appeal to Usagi's past self but now… she was different when she was Sailor Cosmos. He shook his head. There is no way he would be able to talk to her now when she was asleep. He would have an opportunity to talk to her one last time and he would make it count.
Haumea returned to the headquarters of the organization. She searched various rooms until she found Eris in an empty room. He sat at a table with papers sprawled everywhere.
"I have to speak to you about the Guardian," Haumea said as she entered the room.
"Have you found the Guardian?" He asked. The topic of the discussion caused him to look up from the mounds paperwork. Some of the sheets had pictures depicting a black crystal in the shape of sphere.
"Yes."
"Tell me what has transpired."
"Sailor Cosmos and the Moon Princess are one in the same. Deucalion attacked Sailor Star Fighter… and Sailor Cosmos emerged. She… destroyed Deucalion."
"Her loss is regrettable, but her death was not in vain. She furthered our cause. This information is invaluable. We know that she will protect Sailor Star Fighter at all costs. But we also know another weakness of hers we can easily exploit. More research will need to be conducted tonight and tomorrow. But I think we are close to using our new weapon." He picked up the image and smiled. "We just found the last key to unlock the ultimate weapon. The Guardian will help us… one way or another."
The following morning, Seiya woke up in Yaten's room. He rubbed his eyes as the light of the sun poked in threw the window. He felt stiff when he sat up. He slowly moved to the edge of the bed and stood up. He was light headed and sat back down. Once the feeling passed, he rose back up. He walked to the door and opened it.
Yaten and Taiki were seated in the living room and looked up at the sound of the open door. They smiled at him.
"Okay…. What happened?" Seiya asked. He placed an emphasis on the last two words. His mind was hazy and he wasn't sure what of anything in the past twelve hours.
Taiki and Yaten rushed over to Seiya to hug him. "Guys?" Seiya asked in a confused tone. He was clearly missing something.
"Are you okay?" Yaten questioned him.
"How are you feeling?" Taiki's voice was full of concern.
"I'm fine… but why are you guys acting so weird?" Seiya responded back as he moved to the couch to sit down. His gut told him to sit down. "I'm really tired and confused. Why do I feel sore? Why was I in Yaten's room?"
"Hold on," Taiki, he sat down next to Seiya. "What do you remember from last night? We can fill in the blanks from there."
"Well…" Seiya thoughtfully said, "I remember Odango called us for help. We rushed to help her and there were two women. The one with blonde hair said she was going to lure out the Guardian. She attacked me. It hurt and I flew backward. Later I remember Princess Kakyuu leaning over me, telling me to hang on. I woke up and I was in lot of pain. You," he turned to Yaten, "looked like you seen a ghost. Then…. I woke up here."
"Wow…." Yaten said, he thought how he wanted to tell Seiya what happened.
Taiki beat him to the punch, "You were mortally injured last night after Deucalion attacked you. Princess Kakyuu did everything in her power to heal you…. But it was beyond her abilities. You died."
"I… died?" Seiya repeated slowly. He tried to process the information. He was in disbelief. "But how… you sure I died?"
"You weren't breathing," Yaten confirmed. "After Sailor Moon witnessed the attack against you, she lost control and instantly became Sailor Cosmos. She even used a new attack and eliminated the woman that attacked you. Haumea fled. She was finally able to check on you, but you were gone."
Things slowly begin to sink in for Seiya. He felt horrible for putting Usagi through something like that. As they discussed what happened he recalled a blur of several different events.
"Sailor Cosmos unlocked a new ability and brought you back to life with the help of the Maboroshi no Ginzuishou. She collapsed after she exerted herself. Once we arrived back here, Princess Kakyuu finished healing the wounds Sailor Cosmos was not able to earlier," Taiki finished. He wanted to make sure he was thorough to allow Seiya to understand the gravity of what he experienced.
"Where is Princess Kakyuu now?" Seiya said.
"Asleep in my room," answered Taiki.
Something struck Seiya odd, "Wait… why wasn't I in my room?"
"Usagi-chan is still asleep," Yaten said. He knew as soon as Seiya learned Usagi was here his attention would be turned to her.
"Why didn't you say that sooner?" Exclaimed Seiya, as he stood up. He walked over to his room to check on her. He turned the knob to his door and felt anxious. He wanted nothing more than to hug her and hold her close. He softly closed the door behind him. His plan evaporated once he seen Usagi sound asleep in his bed. She slept on her left side and mumbled something in her sleeping. He didn't have a clue what she said. He frowned. He knew she needed to rest but he wanted to talk to her regarding what they learned about Sailor Cosmos. He grabbed a chair from the other side of the room and placed it by the bed. He smirked when he realized how many time he repeated the same behavior in the past two months.
After an hour, Seiya felt like he couldn't sit still any more. He left the room and noticed Princess Kakyuu at the counter eating food cooked by Taiki and Yaten. Seiya's stomach growled. Everyone laughed at the loud noise.
"I thought that was Usagi-san at first," Princess Kakyuu teased him.
Seiya sat down next to Princess Kakyuu and smiled, "I guess I'm hungry?"
"Give me a few minutes and I'll make you a plate," said Taiki. He opened the cupboard to grab a fresh plate.
Princess Kakyuu leaned to her right and hugged Seiya closer to her. "I was afraid you were lost to us, Fighter." She hugged him tightly for a moment before she shifted her weight back to her seat. "I have another reason to be grateful to Usagi-san." Her voice became quieter when she continued, "I tried to heal your wounds last night… but I've never seen such a deep cut before. Usagi-san's powers as Sailor Cosmos are truly amazing. I was not aware she could bring people back."
"It is something she could do before… as Sailor Moon, but it comes with a price. Sooner or later… she won't be able to anymore," Seiya said with a frown. "It's very dangerous for her."
"I'm wondering how her powers as Sailor Cosmos will affect the Maboroshi no Ginzuishou. A few of her tears fell onto her ring and allowed her to learn the gift of resurrection. Was this new ability a merge of her powers as the Moon Princess?" Taiki's question was met with silence and a shrug of their shoulders.
Yaten placed a plate of food in front of Seiya. "There is something I wanted to ask you about. Last night… after Sailor Cosmos saved you, there was a crescent moon mark on your brooch. What does it mean?"
"What?" Seiya asked, shocked by his question. "I have no idea."
"Regardless, I think it you be best if you and Usagi-san take it easy for a few days to make sure there are no lingering effects from this ordeal," Princess Kakyuu said thoughtfully.
A few hours later, Usagi woke up. She quickly sat up when she realized she wasn't in her room.
"Odango," a familiar voice said.
She gasped when she saw Seiya stand up from the chair and move toward her. Usagi stared at him in shock. She couldn't speak. Tears spilled down her cheeks. "Seiya…." she said softly when she finally found her voice.
He sat down next to her on the bed.
"You're okay!" She shouted and threw her arms around him.
The noise quickly drew the attention of the occupations in the next room over. Princess Kakyuu slightly opened the door and saw Usagi and Seiya hugging. Princess Kakyuu smiled and closed the door behind her. "I think it would be best if we left for a little while… it will give them time to talk. They've been through a lot in the past 24 hours." Princess Kakyuu shifted her appearance to fit in as a regular earthling.
Yaten and Taiki were surprised by her actions, but they did not question her. The three quietly left the apartment.
"I was so afraid I lost you yesterday," Usagi said between tears. Seiya held her close to him and she cried into his shirt.
"Odango," Seiya said, as he gently pushed her away from him to allow him to look into her eyes. "You'll never lose me," he reassured her. He wiped a few tears from her eyes and kissed her on the forehead.
Such a simple act help put Usagi at ease. "I never want to experience that again. There is so much I still need to tell you..."
His eyes became downcast as he was about to discuss something rather unpleasant. "Odango, the other day at the shrine…"
Usagi cut him off, "I think I understand, Seiya. I just don't want it to happen again. I can't have everyone fighting each other." She smiled warmly at him.
Seiya was amazed at how much her demeanor changed in the past twenty hours. She changed once she became Sailor Cosmos. He was undecided if this was a positive change. "What did you want to talk about?"
"I haven't been completely honest with you about the dreams I've had of the future."
Seiya gave her a skeptical look, "In what way?"
"I never told you the second half. The one that… Chibi Usa turned into a different young girl with silver hair… the same shade as mine when I am Sailor Cosmos. She is running to me calling me mother and telling me her father is looking for her." Usagi hesitated, she knew once she told Seiya this it would change things forever. "A man enters the gardens and the little girl runs to him calling him her father. Seiya… that man is you."
Seiya's jaw dropped slightly. He didn't know what to say.
"And another time… Sailor Uranus tried to attack you because… she couldn't accept you as King…" Usagi continued, once she began to tell him about her dreams everything spilled out.
"Okay, I could see her trying to punch me," Seiya teased while trying to cut the tension. "But… wow! I understand why you've been quiet… but Odango… are these dreams or premonitions?"
Usagi looked up at Seiya and bit her lip. "I don't know." He hadn't responded yet to her confession. She began to doubt herself for telling him.
Seiya placed his hands on her shoulders. Usagi looked up into his eyes once more. "Either way… it doesn't sound so bad."
"…Seiya…" Usagi murmured. She could feel herself being drawn into his eyes.
He leaned over and kissed her deeply.
Usagi was hit with a whirlwind of emotions. His kisses were so different than the countless one she shared with Mamoru… but different in a good way. He didn't hold back. She realized at this moment that he was more passionate. When their lips parted, he left her breathless.
He pushed a few strands of her hair to the side. She seemed so different than how she acted just days ago. "There was something else I wanted to ask you about Odango…" His voice turned serious, "You mentioned in the meeting yesterday that you remembered things from the previous Sailor Cosmos."
"Hmmm?" Usagi vaguely responded, still distracted by the kiss.
Seiya smiled at her reactions and repeated his question.
"Oh… um…it started out as another dream on the Silver Millennium, I was with the other girls in the garden…." Usagi paused. Normally she would have left this part out but… she felt like she could tell him anything now. "Endymion showed up, the other girls left…. He kissed me and then there was a large gust of wind," she finished in a rush. "I stood in the distance and saw this other Sailor Cosmos with three completely different Sailor Starlights. They talked and laughed. I couldn't see anyone's faces but they each had different hair color."
"Tell me more about them," Seiya said. He was focused on the apart of Sailor Cosmos and the Starlights. His expression did not change when she discussed Endymion kissing her. It was only a dream.
"Well... Sailor Cosmos had long flowing hair… it was dark pink, the exact same color as Chibi Chibi."
"Chibi Chibi," Seiya repeated. He hadn't thought of the little girl in a long time. "Interesting… and the Starlights?"
"They had midnight blue, aqua and orange yellow hair. The one with midnight hair seemed to be the closest to Sailor Cosmos. The Starlight said she would protect her. Cosmos teased her… something about it was her fault for being in a predicament. Then… she said she was glad they were married. That was the last thing I saw before I was back in the present."
Seiya stood up and began to pace the room. Usagi was baffled by his actions. "Seiya, what's wrong?"
"Do you remember when I told you that several millennia ago there were three other Starlights that awakened as males once before?"
"Yes."
"You saw…. my ancestors."
"What? Are you sure?" Usagi questioned in disbelief. She struggled to believe the two were related.
"So they say," Seiya sat back down on the bed next to Usagi. "I tried to learn more about my family history… but it has been very challenging." Seiya sat silently without a word while he reflected on everything for several minutes.
"I don't understand why I keep seeing all of these visions," Usagi sighed, "The past, a different past, and the future. I wish I knew how all of them were related. There has to be something that links it all together."
"I'm sure… but it might take some time to figure everything out," said Seiya, trying his best to comfort Usagi. Seiya turned to face Usagi again and placed his fingers on hers. "We'll figure this out," he reassured her.
Usagi felt guilty for withholding everything from Seiya, "I'm sorry I didn't tell you about all of this sooner. And then after yesterday, I knew I had to talk to you." She felt tears begin to collect in her eyes, seeing an image of Sailor Star Fighter being injured and she was unable to do anything to stop it.
"It's how I felt when Sailor Galaxia took your starseed…"
Usagi gasped quietly when she remembered that moment. Sailor Star Fighter screamed and cried in defeat.
"How about… neither of us do that again?" Usagi asked. She wanted to push those memories to the side.
"Deal."
"I guess I have to get used to sharing everything with you… it's just sort of weird." Usagi nervously said a slight blush on her cheeks. "For the longest time… I kept my distance from you… and now I have to do the complete opposite."
"We'll get there… I'm sure there is still plenty you don't know about me too." He reached over and hugged her tightly. "One day, we'll figure this out. But I want you to know… no matter what, I will do everything in my power to protect you. I don't want to see anything bad happen to you." Seiya paused for a moment, "And I know everything is about to become more dangerous now that they know you are Sailor Cosmos."
"But now that they know… I don't have to hide my powers. It means I will be able to protect you, protect everyone!" Usagi shot back in defiance. "If you think I'm going to sitting back and do nothing, you've lost your mind."
Seiya smirked at her word choice. "I know you are more powerful as Sailor Cosmos…. But you need more practice with your abilities. Where can you train when they seem to be able to sense your energy every time you use your powers on Earth?"
"On…Earth…." Usagi repeated slowly while a plan began to form in her head. "I think I know just the place. Rei-chan can help me with the premonitions… Setsuna-san can help me with time…. I think it will work," Usagi babbled on.
"How about if we figure it out later?" Seiya asked. He drew her closer in his arms and kissed her again.
Akari frowned when she realized the Intel she had gathered led to another dead end. The large cave was an ideal location, far removed from civilization in a vast forest, but it was uneventful. She wanted to have something positive to report to Princess Serenity the next time they were in her presence. She also hoped her comrades would react with a calmer mindset. She understood why they were upset, but she did not believe it was their place to question the Princess.
"We are running out of time," Ayane said in dismay. She pushed a few strands of her black hair behind her ears. Ayane often took the role of a sounding board when Akari was in duress.
"You know I refuse to give up," Akari responded with a wink.
"I think it would be best if we returned soon," Hana chimed in to the conversation, "The bright light from last night… I think something happened." She looked at the other girls for confirmation; she heard none. "I just feel like something happened."
"It was Cosmos," Yui finally spoke up. "Though I don't understand why she used her powers. She is capable of saving this world as Sailor Moon." Yui said bitterly. She didn't want to associate the Princess with anything related to Kinmoku. She is supposed to be the royal princess of the Silver Millennium, but she became distracted from "those" from another world.
"I don't like sneaking around everyone's back," Rio said softly. "I know we have always watched over the Princess and the royal family from afar… but not helping her when she is in need, does it not go against everything we have stood for? Was that not the Queen's intention?"
Natsuki pushed her blonde hair back and placed a silver clip on each side. When she was nervous or bored, she played with her hair. "Princess Serenity can be… stubborn. We all know she was in love with Prince Endymion." She tried to calm the frustrations of the others, "I refuse to believe she would leave the Prince without a good reason. I imagine a lot has happened since we were gone."
Her words sunk in with several of the other senshi. They knew they were quick to judge her without understanding her reasons.
"Sooner or later we will have to accept the new status duo," Rin said, her position the complete opposite from the Royal Princess from Uranus. "We cannot be angry with her forever. One day, she will become our Queen, that is a fact," her tone was unyielding. "If she chooses to be with an outsider, we must accept it. It is her decision, let her be happy."
"Hmph," Nanami objected at Rin's words.
"No matter how much we may disagree with it," Natsuki said, as she looked at Nanami and Yui.
Yui narrowed her eyes at Natsuki. They were revived first and understood this world more than the others, but she still could not accept her current choice for a partner. She bit her tongue to refrain from saying anything more on the topic. "We need to get back to work. There are still a few more leads we need to check."
"I agree with Yui-chan," Akari said happily. "I want to have good news the next time we see the Princess in the next few days."
Princess Kakyuu walked quietly next to Yaten and Taiki for a few minutes, enjoying the afternoon sun. "There is another reason I am here. I wish to discuss an important matter with you." Her tone was somber. A part of her did not want to have this conversation with them since it would affect her greatly but she knew it was something that needed to be done. It was for the greater good. "This will be your final mission as senshi from Kinmoku."
"I was expecting this," responded Taiki with indifference.
"We know that Seiya would never leave Usagi-chan again… and the Three Stars are close to completing their training to become full-fledged Starlights."
"They have completed their training," confirmed Princess Kakyuu. "But I want you to remain here with Seiya as well."
This was a twist they did not anticipate. They assumed Seiya would remain behind and they would return to their home world. The two men stopped in their tracks to absorb this change of events. Princess Kakyuu walked a few steps and turned around once she realized they stood behind her.
"I will need you to remain here… think of it as an ambassador for Kinmoku. Usagi-san will need your help to complete the restoration of her former kingdom. Both of you can provide invaluable information," Princess Kakyuu explained her reasoning.
"But our duty is to protect you," Yaten argued, his tone slightly louder.
"You will protect me from afar. Should danger arise here, you will prevent it from heading in the direction of Kinmoku. Earth has a lot to offer you. I encourage you to let your guard down more with the people of this planet… just as Seiya has. You cannot be afraid to be close to the others," concluded Princess Kakyuu.
Taiki and Yaten were quiet for several minutes. They looked at each other for a confirmation of what to say next.
Yaten shrugged his shoulders.
"We will try our best," Taiki said with a half-smile. He doubted how well he would blend in with the people of Earth while remaining here permanently. It would be an adjustment and it was an order from his Princess.
Mamoru sat in his living room in the dark. He had spent the better part of the day thinking about Usagi. He knew speaking to her today would be futile after yesterday's events. Tomorrow, he decided, would be the day he would talked to her. He was going to give it everything he had.
Mamoru will get his chance to talk to Usagi again in the next part. If you've been waiting for Mamoru to do something… :P The organization has finally learned the identity of the Guardian and they have a lot in store for Usagi and the other senshi. Who is the organization? Any guesses? Find out next time! Act 30: Dark Ambitions.
Thank you Kikis87!