Inside the Dead Moon Circus Tent, Zirconia and the Amazon Trio were busy watching a projection via Zircon's Eye. It was a compilation of replays of all the times the Amazon Trio fought the Guardians. When it finished, Zirconia was a little less than pleased as she always had been.

"Amazon Trio, you've fought with the guardians countless times and have been soundly defeated," Zirconia ranted. "Honestly, are the three of you ever going to capture pegasus, or is that too much to ask?!"

"With all due respect, Madam Zirconia," said Fish's Eye.

"We've searched through the dream mirrors of countless humans," said Tiger's Eye.

"But we haven't found Pegasus in any of them," said Hawk's Eye. "Even the ones you specifically chose yourself."

Zirconia groaned. "That's the problem with you young people these days. You don't know how to think for yourselves. If your actions aren't working, then use your heads to think of a way! Or I'll find someone else who will!"

Having no other words, the Amazon Trio bowed and then took their leave.

At the Cafe Bar in the tent, Tiger's Eye, Hawk's Eye, and Fish's Eye looked through all the photos to choose their next target.

Fish's Eye was still complaining from the recent dress-down. "As usual, Zirconia makes it sound so easy," he huffed. "How does she expect us to find something that isn't even there?"

"I know, right? Besides, we've only been given ordinary targets, like these worthless things," Hawk's Eye agreed. "Nothing but silly college girls who are starving for love. How boring!"

Then, Tiger's Eye had an idea as he gathered up all of the photos. "In that case, I'll take them all myself," he smirked.

Hawk's Eye and Fish's Eye were taken aback by this.

"Just what are you planning to do this time?" Fish's Eye asked.

"A change in tactics," replied Tiger's Eye. "If you think about it, as a handsome devil like myself, why should I waste time wooing one girl when I can just woo dozens of girls instead?"

"So it's quantity over quality? Even a lousy marksman can get lucky, is that it?" Fish's Eye questioned.

"Are you sure you can handle that many girls at once?" Hawk's Eye asked doubtfully. "If you haven't noticed, you're not exactly the type to multitask with women."

"It's called using your head, but I doubt you would understand," Tiger's Eye spoke snootily. "Just watch and learn."

And with that, Tiger's Eye walked briskly away, leaving his two companions puzzled about his attitude. Then, Fish's Eye noticed a photo slip out from Tiger's Eye's arms as he disappeared. Feeling curious, he picked it up and looked at it, seeing that it was of Makoto standing in a field, smiling cheerfully.

At a college known as K.O. University, which Mamoru attended as a student, the place was alive with the sounds of a festival. People were bustling about taking pictures with mascots, eating food from stands, and playing games. There was even a dance party set to start in the auditorium. Usagi and her group were all dressed in formal attire, all set to get ready for the dance party. Among them, Makoto wore a beautiful violet dress with a large red rose at the skirt, black pumps, and a gold necklace with a red ruby diamond in the middle.

"You guys think I went a bit overboard with the dress?" Makoto asked while blushing shyly.

"Not at all!" smiled Usagi.

"That's right! After all, it's a college festival!" Minako spoke with firm determination while snorting like a bull ready to charge. "And the competition will be cutthroat, so you have to stand out to catch the biggest fish!"

"Easy there, Toro," said Harusuke. "But that aside, you look amazing, Makoto. You haven't gone overboard at all."

Makoto could only advert her eyes but smile.

Then, Mamoru, Motoki, and Reika came up.

"Hey, everyone!" Mamoru greeted. "You all made it!"

"And you all look nice!" added Reika. "I take it you're all here for the dance party?"

"Yup, you guessed it," said Rei. "And we can't wait!"

"Our college dance party has become pretty well-known to the public as an unofficial matchmaking event," said Mamoru.

"That's right," concurred Motoki. "Each year, several dance partners leave as serious couples and would eventually get married, so you'll never know if the person you dance with might end up being that special someone."

"D-Did you say married?" Chibiusa gasped while blushing.

"That's right," smiled Reika. Then she teasingly winked at her brother. "And if I recall correctly, dear brother, isn't that how you ended up with Reika?"

Everyone looked at Motoki in surprise while he went a deep shade of red. Even Harusuke and Mamoru teased him.

"Well, well, Motoki," Mamoru grinned. "Way to go."

"Didn't think you'd be the kind of guy to snag a girl that way," Harusuke jokingly taunted while nudging him lightly. "You sly dog."

"Oh, come on! Not you guys, too!" complained Motoki.

"In that case, there's no time to lose, girls!" Rei then spoke impatiently. "Let's hurry and get inside!"

"That's right! Our fateful encounters are waiting for us!" concurred Minako.

So everyone then headed inside for the gym. But as Makoto was about to enter, she stopped at the dance party poster beside the doors, which showed a man and a woman dancing together. She also couldn't help but remember what Motoki and Mamoru said.

"My fateful encounter," she thought.

Inside the gym, music was blasting, lights were flashing, and everyone was dancing and having a good time. Usagi and the other girls were quick to find partners and enjoyed dancing.

Everyone except for Makoto, who was standing beside the wall alone.

Harusuke then approached her. "Hey, Mako. What are you doing here?" he asked. "I would have thought you, of all people, would already be dancing."

"Well, when you're tall like me, no one ever asks you to dance with them," said Makoto. "I'm just used to this."

Harusuke smiled as he held out his hand to the girl. "Well, may I have this dance?" he asked. "I don't mind if you're tall. Besides, it'd be a pity if you didn't get the chance to show how beautiful you are."

Makoto blinked before chuckling as she took the boy's hand. "All right then. Why not?"

The two went to the dance floor and started dancing, twirling around and stepping in time. Makoto even lifted Harusuke off the ground, much to his surprise and enjoyment. The crowd couldn't help but take notice and were amazed. Even Usagi and the others couldn't help but stare.

"Wow! Look at Mako go!" gasped Chibiusa in wonder.

"And Harusuke, too!" gushed Usagi. "Those two make an awesome pair!"

At that time, Tiger's Eye arrived in disguise. He wore a white suit with purple trims while his blonde hair was colored black. As he walked in, he, too, took notice of Makoto and marveled at her beauty and dance skills.

"That girl's not bad," he murmured. "Not bad at all."

He took the photos from his person and skimmed through them to see if she was a potential target. However, he didn't see Makoto's picture, unaware of dropping it back at the tent.

"It looks like she isn't one of the targets I'm after," he said. "But there's no reason I can't use her to start my search."

He then snapped his fingers, using his powers to cut the music and turn off the lights, much to the crowd's bewilderment.

"What just happened?" wondered Harusuke.

"Is it over already?" puzzled Makoto.

Tiger's Eye then cut through the crowd and approached the two, and his eyes were fixed squarely on Makoto.

"Excuse me, Miss," he said, putting on the charm. "But may I have this dance?"

Makoto was caught off guard, her cheeks going pink, immediately smitten. "Y-You want to dance with me?" she asked. "Really?"

But she didn't forget about Harusuke as she looked across at him, only for him to smile in understanding.

"Go ahead, Mako," he said. "Enjoy yourself."

Makoto smiled in thanks, and as Harusuke stepped back, a beautiful waltz melody began to play as Makoto and Tiger's Eye began to dance, gliding gracefully across the floor. As she danced with him, Makoto's imagination took flight as she began imagining herself as a princess in a white gown dancing with a handsome prince while smiling in bliss.

"Am I dreaming right now? Dancing never felt this wonderful before." she thought. "Wouldn't it be wonderful if this was my fateful encounter?"

The song ended, and as soon as it did, numerous girls swarmed around Tiger's Eye like bees in a hive, each pleading to be his next dance partner.

"Well, look at this," Tiger's Eye thought smugly. "I threw in a sprat and caught a whale. See what happens when I put my mind to it?"

"Um, excuse me," Makoto called out to the male. "Would you dance with me again?"

Tiger's Eye heard her and smiled. "I would like to, but I'm afraid I'm going to be booked for a while," he said. "If you don't mind, we can dance later."

He was then dragged away by the mob of girls while Makoto's eyes sparkled as she swooned.

"Oh, boy," sighed Harusuke. "She's got the look in her eyes."

"No way," Usagi murmured in surprise. "Is this...?"

"Yup, definitely love at first sight," smirked Minako cheekily.

A little while later, Usagi's group had lunch outside, close to the dining area by the stalls. As they ate, Usagi and the others told Mamoru, Reika, and Moktoki about Makoto, who had chosen to stay behind at the gym for quite a while, much to their surprise.

"Hold on. Mako's been staying at the gym ever since?!" Mamoru asked incredulously. "You're kidding!"

"I kid you not," said Usagi. "She said she's going to wait in case that guy came back and wanted to dance with her again."

"You know how Mako gets when she falls for someone," Minako added. "Once she does, she falls all the way. It's like a bottomless pit."

"Chibiusa and Harusuke both went to try and get her," said Ami. "They might even be waiting with her."

But Mamoru still felt worried. "I think we should go check on her, too," he said. "Just to be safe."

Everyone else agreed with him.

Over at the gym, Makoto, Harusuke, and Chibiusa were waiting outside. The sun had already begun to set, and the dance party was closing for the day.

Then, Tiger's Eye finally walked out of the gym with his entourage of women, much to Makoto's delight.

Tiger's Eye was surprised when he saw Makoto waiting for him. "Oh? You're still here?" he spoke casually.

Chibiusa was quick to snap at him from his tone. "Hey! Watch your attitude, bub!" she barked crossly. "Mako's been waiting all this time to dance with you!"

"Now that is a problem," Tiger's Eye spoke with sympathy. "I still owe dances to all of these ladies."

"That's fine," smiled Makoto. "I can wait."

Everyone couldn't help but look at the girl, even more surprised.

"But, Mako, are you sure about doing this?" asked Harusuke.

"Yeah, I don't mind," reassured Makoto. "I can wait until he's done."

Tiger's Eye took a minute to think. "I don't have time to spend on a girl who's not even on the photo list," he thought. "All right then," he said. "I'll see you later."

He then walked away while his fangirls followed. As they left, Usagi and the others arrived, and when they saw Tiger's Eye and the others, they couldn't help but feel indignant too.

"Did that guy just leave you?" asked Minako. "That's pretty cold! What a jerk!"

"Nah, it's not like that," denied Makoto. "I admire him for not breaking his promises with those other girls. Besides, he remembered who I was and stuff."

"That is true," said Rei. "But still..."

"Well, the dancing may be over for today, but it'll continue tomorrow," said Motoki. "Why don't we all go home for today?"

But Makoto shook her head. "Nah. You guys go on ahead," she said. "I think I'll stay here for a bit longer."

Everyone was unsure, but they respected Makoto's decision as they left.

A little while later, it had started raining by the time the Tsukinos made it home.

Harusuke was lounging around on his bed, watching the rain fall outside. As he stared, he couldn't help but start thinking about Makoto, worried if the girl was all right.

"I sure hope Mako's made it home and out of the rain," he thought. "It can't be healthy staying out in this weather."

Then, he heard a few knocks on the door, and Chibiusa came in. "Say, Uncle Sunny? Can I talk to you for a minute?"

"What's up, Chibiusa?" asked Harusuke.

The boy could see that Chibiusa was worried.

"It's about Mako," the pink ordango girl said. "I can't understand why she's so crazy about that guy she met. She only met him today."

Harusuke took a second before responding. "Well, I can't give a straight enough answer for that question," he said. "But based on my experience, along with watching you girls and other people, time doesn't matter when it comes to love at first sight. Once you end up head over heels, you become oblivious to everything around you. That's why when it happens, it can not only be the greatest thing in the world but also become dangerous. That's why you better be careful, kiddo. The same thing might happen to you."

Chibiusa then remembered seeing Pegasus in her dreams, which made her heart skip a beat as she slightly blushed. "Y-Yeah. I guess so," she replied.

Just then, they heard Usagi exclaim from her room.

"What?! Are you sure?!"

Feeling concerned, Harusuke and Chibiusa went to the ordango blonde's room to see what was wrong.

"Usagi, what's the matter?" asked Harusuke.

"It's Mako!" Usagi cried with concern. "I just heard from Motoki and Reika that she hasn't returned home yet, and is still by the gym!"

Both Harusuke and Chibiusa gasped in shock.

Back at the university, everyone had gone home for the night. The entire place was dark, and all the stands were covered in tarps for protection.

The only one that remained was Makoto, who was still sitting by the gym but stayed under its canopy to keep herself dry.

Then, as she waited, she was blinded by a pair of headlights as a familiar red sports car pulled up. It was Mamoru, along with Usagi, Chibiusa, and Harusuke.

Usagi and Harusuke immediately got out and rushed to their friend, while Chibiusa and Mamoru stayed close to the car.

"Mako! What are you still doing here?!" Usagi demanded worriedly.

"Yeah, even you should've gone home this late and with this weather!" said Harusuke.

"Because I couldn't possibly if there's even a chance he might return," said Makoto. "I'd never forgive myself if I missed him."

"But you don't even know who he is or where he's from!" pointed out Usagi.

"You're right about that," said Makoto. "But that's why I want to see him again." She stepped out into the rain and began to dance while remembering her time with the boy. "It was my dream to wear a frilly dress and dance with my prince charming, and it came true," she continued. "If I let my prince get away now, I might regret it for the rest of my life."

Everyone couldn't help but stare at Makoto.

Then, Harusuke sighed as he approached Makoto and put a coat around her. "If you insist on doing this, you can try to buddle up. I mean, you can't exactly afford to get sick if you're waiting all night."

"That's right," concurred a familiar voice. "Otherwise, you might regret it and never see him again."

The voice came from Ami, who had arrived with Rei and Minako. Makoto was about to ask what they were doing here, but Rei quickly cut in.

"Usagi called us," she explained. "And so we're going to wait here with you."

"I'd figured we'd stay up telling each other stories," smiled Usagi.

Makoto felt touched and grateful, but he also felt a bit guilty. "I'm sorry for troubling you, everyone."

"No need to apologize," smiled Minako. "That's what friends are for."

As everyone went under the canopy, Mamoru decided to take Chibiusa home. The little girl was still worried about her friends, but Mamoru told her not to worry.

"Let's leave the rest of this to Usako and the others and go home for the night," he said. "We'll be back tomorrow to check on them."

Chibusa agreed, and the two left for home.

From there, Usagi and her group stayed up through the night, keeping Makoto company. Eventually, the teens grew tired and, one by one started to fall asleep until Harusuke and Makoto were the only ones still awake. Harusuke was using another coat to cover up his sister and Rei as they slept while leaning against each other.

"You know, those two are pretty adorable when they're not at each other's throats," Makoto chuckled lightly.

"I'll have to agree," said Harusuke.

The two then went silent as they listened to the pitter-patter of the rain.

At last, Harusuke broke the silence. "Say, Mako. You love this guy a lot, don't you?"

"Yeah, I do," said Makoto. "More than anything."

"Well, I can respect that," said Harusuke. "But there's something I want you to know."

"What is it?" asked Makoto.

Harusuke paused for a brief moment before speaking. "Look, it's commendable with how far you're willing to go for this guy, and anyone would want a girl with that kind of loyalty," he said. "But some people are willing to take advantage of that."

Makoto stared at Harusuke as he stared at the rain while he continued.

"Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not trying to discourage you or tell you to stop pursuing the guy," he went on. "You're free to love whoever you want, but I don't want you to end up with someone who will use your affections against you. If you're sure you love this guy, then by all means, go for it, but please try not to let your love blind you to the point of forgetting your surroundings and yourself."

There was silence. But Harusuke was quick to relent.

"I mean, well, you can forget what I said," he said nervously. "Like, what do I know when it comes to love? I'm just an awkward idiot who doesn't know about dating, so I shouldn't be saying anything."

But Makoto smiled. "Thanks, Harusuke. I appreciate it," she said quietly. "And I'll promise to be careful, so you don't have to worry."

Harusuke gave his friend a blank look before smiling a little too. "All right then. Glad I could help," he said. "Anyway, I'm going to sleep now. Make sure you get some rest, too. Night."

"Night," Makoto said back to him.

As Harusuke closed his eyes and fell asleep, Makoto couldn't help but think about his words, making her ponder. But as she did, her eyelids began to grow a bit heavy, and before long, she was fast asleep, too.

The following day, the festival reopened in full swing.

Tiger's Eye was heading back to the gym, looking forward to continuing his hunt. But as he made his way, his eyes fell upon something that made him do a double take.

Over on the stage, a beauty pageant was happening, and five girls stood on stage. Among them was Fish's Eye, who was in disguise like him.

"Ladies and gentlemen," the announcer spoke out to the crowd. "The winning title of our Twelfth Annual Beauty Pageant goes to... entry number thirteen, Miss Nanami Uokawa!"

Fish's Eye jumped for joy as the crowd cheered. However, his happiness was rudely interrupted as Tiger's Eye stormed up front.

"Fish's Eye! Get over here!" he barked crossly. "What the hell do you think you're doing here?!"

Fish's Eye saw Tiger's Eye and gasped, suddenly remembering. "Oh my gosh! Tiger's Eye! I totally forgot all about you!" he apologized. "I was looking for you!"

Tiger's Eye could only blink in puzzlement.

Meanwhile, Usagi and Chibiusa were heading back to the gym themselves. They had just gone through the stands and bought lots of food for their friends.

"I hope Mako's feeling hungry after all that waiting," said Chibiusa.

"No kidding," said Usagi. "I mean, she has to eat something. Otherwise, she'll collapse from hunger."

Then, as the two went past a secluded area, they happened to notice something. Tiger's Eye and Fish's Eye stood alone together, looking all sorts of shady, and so, being the nosy girls they were, they crept behind a couple of bushes and eavesdropped on their conversation.

"So, what did you want to talk to me about?" asked Tiger's Eye. "This better be good."

Fish's Eye then handed him the picture of Makoto. "Here. You dropped this from that huge stack of photos back at the bar," he said. "I figured I'd take the liberty to deliver it to you." He then blushed. "But as you may have noticed, I got distracted by all the cute boys here and forgot about it."

"That sounds like you," Tiger's Eye sighed as he looked at the photo. But when he saw it, he recognized who it was immediately. "That girl!" he gasped.

"What's up?" asked Fish's Eye. "You know her?"

"Sort of," replied Tiger's Eye as he quickly stuffed the photo into his pocket.

"By the way, how's it going?" questioned Fish's Eye teasingly. "After all of your boasting, it'd be a shame if you came up short."

"If you must know, it's going just fine!" Tiger's Eye snapped huffily. "The ladies can't keep their hands off me like bees and honey! I could easily nail twenty of them if I wanted to!"

When she heard this, Usagi scowled in anger, accidentally squishing the food she had bought in her hands, much to Chibiusa's surprise.

"Well, that's good," said Fish's Eye. "And while you're at it, why don't you show her a good dream, too?"

Tiger's Eye smirked maliciously as he walked away. "I will."

As soon as they were gone, both Usagi and Chibiusa were irate.

"That guy's a womanizer! An enemy to all women!" growled Chibiusa indignantly.

"Unforgivable!" agreed Usagi. "That guy's nothing but a lousy playboy! And what's worse, he's done nothing but toy with poor Mako's feelings! He needs to be taught a lesson!"

Back at the gym, as the staff got ready to reopen, Makoto and the others were still fast asleep, unaware that it was morning. Then, Tiger's Eye came walking towards them. When she heard him coming, Makoto opened her eyes, and when she saw him, she was immediately wide awake.

"Hello there again," greeted Tiger's Eye. "I can't tell how touched and honored I am that you waited for me."

Makoto then got up. "I was starting to wonder you wouldn't come," she said happily as she stood up.

"Don't be silly," smiled Tiger's Eye. "How could I ignore such a wonderful woman like you?"

"Do you mean that?" Makoto spoke heartfeltly. "I'm so happy. I've been waiting all this time for you because I've always believed you'd come back to dance with me one more time."

It was then that Tiger's Eye was taken aback seeing how happy Makoto looked, which made him go a bit pink while his heart skipped a few beats.

"What's wrong with me?!" he wondered internally. "I'm supposed to be seducing her, not the other way around! So why am I getting all flustered."

Feeling puzzled, he couldn't help but ask. "You believed me? Why? How can you trust me so much?"

Makoto was also confused herself, as well as the others who had also woken up. But then they were rudely interrupted by Fish's Eye, who sprang up from the bushes.

"Oh, come on! What are you waiting for?!" he snapped. "Hurry up and do it already!"

Before anyone could react, Fish's Eye jumped out from his hiding place while shedding his disguise and initiated the countdown as he landed.

"One!"

His slab sprang up from behind Makoto.

"Two!"

Metal clamps clasped around her ankles and wrists.

"Three!"

With a cry of pain, Makoto's dream mirror sprang out from her chest in front of her, but she somehow managed to stay conscious.

"Mako!" everyone cried as they rushed to help their friend.

But they were stopped by Fish's Eye, who threw a net, capturing and entangling them.

"We're trapped!" cried Minako.

"Damn it! I can't move!" cursed Harusuke.

"Now, hurry up and finish the job!" Fish's Eye ordered Tiger's Eye. "Don't just stand there!"

Makoto could only stare at Tiger's Eye feeling hurt and distraught. "No, it can't be true," he spoke with pleading eyes. "Are you one of them?"

Tiger's Eye responded by shedding his disguise and brandishing his whip while Makoto felt her heart sink.

"You've only got yourself to blame, you know," he said snootily while flipping his hair. "Trusting so much after one dance. You must be out of your mind."

He then marched over to Makoto, cold and uncaring, and shoved his head into the dream mirror. Makoto screamed in agony, but she couldn't move or run away.

Usagi and Chibusa then rushed to the scene and saw what was happening.

"What the heck?!" exclaimed Usagi. "How did all of this happen?!"

"Never mind that!" Chibiusa spoke urgently. "We have to transform now!"

They quickly hid behind the corner of a building and transformed.

"MOON CRISIS MAKE UP!"

Transformation Sequence: Usagi and Chibiusa.

Usagi's Crisis Moon Compact and Chibiusa's Chibi Moon Compact open and their crystals inside them. They both begin to flash until they erupt with pink light. While enveloped in light with their compacts affixed to the middle of their chests, Usagi and Chibiusa stand side by side as pink ribbons made of light burst from their brooches, trailing and flapping in the wind-like capes. First, as she turns around, they wrap around Usagi, forming her leotard, and the same happens to Chibiusa. Next, the two stood back-to-back, bending backward elegantly as their skirt, boots, and ribbons materialized. Then, as they move around face-to-face, Chibiusa kisses Usagi's cheek, and as she pulls away, her tiara and other accessories appear along with Usagi's. The two then open their eyes, their transformations completed; they turn one and strike their signature poses while a yellow moon with pink roses appears in the background.

Tiger's Eye soon pulled his head out from Makoto's Dream Mirror while she fell unconscious, once again disappointed to find that there was no Pegasus.

"This girl has a lovely dream, but sadly he's not in here," sighed Tiger's Eye.

"Then, let's hurry up and get rid of them so we can get out of here," said Fish's Eye.

"Like we'll let that happen!" shouted a voice from above.

The two amazons looked up and found Super Sailor Moon and Chibi Moon standing on the roof.

"A woman's intuition is like telepathy!" said Super Sailor Chibi Moon. "You scoffed at a young girl's heart blinded by love at first sight! How insincere and deceitful can you be?! We're the Pretty Guardians who fight for love and justice! I'm Super Sailor Chibi Moon!"

"And I'm Super Sailor Moon!" she proclaimed as they leaped off of the roof on the ground. "And now, in the name of the Moon, we'll punish you!"

"Damn it! Not these brats again!" huffed Fish's Eye. He glanced at Tiger's Eye. "So now what? You got any ideas?"

"Well, since there's no Pegasus, I'm out here," said Tiger's Eye as he turned on his heel to leave.

Fish's Eye was indignant. "Hey! You can't be serious!" he complained. "In case you haven't noticed, we got people to get rid of here!"

"She was originally my target in the first place," Tiger's Eye pointed out. "You're the one who butted in."

As the two argued, Super Sailor Moon tried her best to free the unconscious Makoto while Super Sailor Chibi Moon removed the net from their others. And as soon as they were free, Harusuke quickly darted away.

"Hey! Harusuke! Where are you going?!" Rei cried while whispering.

But Harusuke didn't answer as he disappeared from behind a corner.

Tiger's Eye summoned his portal and was about to leave when something came down from the sky and landed on the ground in a crouch blocking his way.

The something turned out to be Solaris.

"Oh, great, now we have Mr. Sunshine to deal with," huffed Tiger's Eye. "Just what I needed today."

But Solaris remained silent as he straightened up while glaring at the blonde.

"What? No heroic speech?" Tiger's Eye taunted. "Cat got your tongue? Or are you just going to keep up the silent treatment?"

Still, Solaris remained silent much to the confusion of everyone, even Fish's Eye. Until, at last, Solaris took a breath as he responded.

"I only have one thing to say to you," he said to Tiger's Eye. "And that's I pity you."

Tiger's Eye raised a brow. "What?"

"You heard me. I said I pity you," Solaris continued in a calm yet icy tone. "You may have a beautiful face and attract women left and right, but that reminds me of an old saying: Beauty is only skin-deep. And not only that, you've pretty much set the world record for being the only thing you're good at, shallow."

Tiger's Eye's eyebrow twitched as he glared. "Excuse me?"

"And you know what's even sadder?" Solaris went on, his eyes never leaving his enemy. "That girl who you selfishly blamed for loving you at first sight? While she may have been blind to who you truly were, she's shown that she's more honest and loyal than a bleach-blonde sorry sack of a pretty boy like you. And you better believe I mean it in an insulting way."

Tiger's Eye's face started turning red as he balled up his hands into fists. "Oh, no. You did not just say that!" he snarled. "You think I'm going to let you get away with talking to me like that?!"

"Yes, because you were planning on leaving anyway," said Solaris. "And that's another thing. I pity you because that girl behind you never gave up or ran away while she waited and put all her trust in you, only for you to treat her like another number in your little playboy score and even go as far as to defile her dreams. It makes me wonder what she ever saw in someone like you. While you may have a handsome face, you're just as rotten, ugly, and cowardly, and I hope you end up alone and single for the rest of your miserable life."

Fish's Eye gasped while the girls stared at Solaris in shock with open-slacked jaws.

Tiger's Eye was overwhelmed with anger as he dangerously glared, veins visibly popping on his face as he cracked his whip. "You little bastard," he spoke in a heated tone. "I've had just about enough of your mouth. No one calls me ugly and lives to tell about it!"

Solaris summoned his sword and took a stance, countering with an icy-cold stare. "There's always a first time."

The two gazed grimly at each other, exhibiting murderous auras while the girls and Fish's Eye watched nervously.

"Oh, man," gulped Minako. "I may not have Rei's powers as a priestess, but even I can sense those two mean business."

Then, Solaris and Tiger's Eye launched themselves at each other and began their showdown, Tiger's Eye cracking his whip while Solaris slashed with his sword.

"Um, should we help him?" Super Sailor Chibi Moon Moon asked Super Sailor Moon.

"As a wise man once said, don't get involved in a dog fight. Especially if those dogs are rabid," whispered Super Sailor Moon. "Besides, Solaris can handle that guy. Plus, we have to get Mako out here."

But Fish's Eye happened to hear them and was quick to take action as his shadow extended on the ground. "Come forth, my Lemures!" he commanded. "Shufflefururo, the Sad Playing Card Master!"

A tornado of cards erupted from his shadow before dispersing, revealing the Lemures. It was male, skinny, wore a purple jumpsuit with red elf shoes and white gloves, and also wore a giant ace of spades playing card held together by straps. His face looked eerily similar to a playing card king, his skin colored white with a black spade painted on his upper face and blue teardrops under his eyes.

"OK, Furuo! You take care of these bumpkins!" ordered Fish's Eye.

He summoned his portal and jumped into it as it faded away along with the slab, freeing Makoto in the process, Super Sailor Chibi Moon catching her before she collapsed. Then, Rei, Ami, and Minako carried Makoto to safety as the two guardians got ready to fight.

Shufflefuruo began shuffling a deck of cards utilizing all sorts of tricks before pulling out a hand of them and taking out two.

"All right then! How's about we start with a pair?" Shufflefuruo spoke with a malicious smirk as he threw them with quick precision.

Super Sailor Moon and Chibi quickly jumped out of the way in time for the cards to narrowly cut a few strands of their hair.

"Oh, man! Those cards are sharp as knives!" cried Super Sailor Moon.

Super Sailor Chibi Moon then shouted. "Super Sailor Moon! Behind you!"

The ordango guardian looked back and squeaked in surprise, for Shufflefuruo's cards were so sharp that they managed to cut through the steel beams of the hallway roof, and it was about to fall on top of her. She quickly rolled out of the way as it fell with a thunderous clang.

Solaris and Tiger's Eye lashed and attacked each other, utilizing their weapons and close combat. They swung, slashed, punched, and kicked, neither giving an inch. Then, Tiger's Eye launched his whip aiming for Solaris's legs to trip him up. The golden guardian jumped up, avoiding the attack, and simultaneously dropkicked Tiger's Eye square in the chest, knocking the wind out of him and making him stagger.

"You want to play rough, do you?!" Tiger's Eye snarled. "Fine then! Nightmare Lemures arise! "

At his command, several of them sprang up from the ground.

"Now, go teach that little punk a lesson!" Tiger's Eye ordered. "Make sure you make him suffer!"

The Nightmare Lemures obeying his command, all swarmed around Solaris, about to release their negative energy, but Solaris quickly retaliated.

"Jupiter!"

At his command, Solaris's armor turned green, and he used one of Sailor Jupiter's moves, an antenna springing up from his helmet as he gathered lightning in his hands.

"SPARKLING WIDE PRESSURE!"

He launched a powerful disc made of lightning, forcing Tiger's Eye to roll out of the way to dodge as it destroyed all of the Nightmare Lemures in the blink of an eye. As Tiger's Eye got back up, he was shocked to see his minions gone while Solaris remained standing.

"Had enough, or do you want more?" asked Solaris. "You little tricks won't work on me."

Tiger's Eye growled in anger as he glared, getting back up. But as Solaris took a fighting stance, Tiger's Eye summoned his portal.

"I'll let you win for today," he seethed. "But make no mistake! I'll be back to make you pay for your insolence!"

He then jumped into it and disappeared.

Super Sailor Moon and Super Sailor Chibi Moon were dodging all of Shufflefuruo's cards by hiding behind various objects, only for the cards to slice straight through them like butter.

"Next, we'll have two pairs, three of a kind, and a full house!" cackled the lemures as he continued throwing his cards.

The two guardians continued to dodge the cards until they found themselves pinned to the wall while narrowly avoiding them.

"Now, this is one card game I'm not enjoying!" wailed Super Sailor Moon.

Seeing his enemies incapacitated, Shufflefuruo went in for the kill and spread his cards across his left arm.

"And now for the kill," he grinned maliciously. "The Joker's Shower!"

With his other arm, he rapidly shot his cards at the two guardians like a storm of knives. But just as they were about to hit their targets, a pair of familiar voices shouted.

"SUPREME THUNDER!"

Two powerful streams of thunder broke through the cards and struck Shufflefuruo, zapping him with their overwhelming volts. Then, Solaris and Sailor Jupiter stepped forth, much to Super Sailor Moon and Chibi Moon's delight.

"Solaris! Sailor Jupiter!" Super Sailor Chibi Moon cried happily.

"Way to save the day, you two!" thanked Super Sailor Moon.

"Sorry we're a little late," said Solaris.

"I thought I finally found my prince," said Sailor Jupiter, still feeling hurt. "But I think I'll vent my frustrations on this guy! Solaris! Mind if I take out this joker with you?"

Solaris smiled. "I'd be insulted if you didn't!"

Solaris gripped his sword, drew his magic circle, and took a stance as a mirage of wings sprung from his back while all the jewels on it shone along with the blade. Sailor Jupiter raised her arms above her head while spinning around and generating and gathering lightning as a large sphere of blue sphere of it appeared.

"SOLARIS DAWNING PENTAGRAM SWORD!"

"JUPITER COCONUT CYCLONE!"

Solaris's sword extended as he slashed while Sailor Jupiter launched the sphere with a mighty punch. Both attacks struck Shufflefuruo, and in an explosion of lightning and light, he was destroyed, his shadow appearing on the ground briefly before fading away in a puff of smoke.

After that, the festival ended, and all its participants went home.

However, Makoto stuck around along with the rest of her friends, processing her feelings as she stared at the empty gym.

"You know, now that I think about it," she said to no one in particular. "Maybe it was the dancing itself I fell in love with. Twirling around with the music, parting the crowd, and making the dance floor my own, no one taking their eyes off of me."

No one knew what to say about that. Then, Harusuke approached.

"You know, Mako, I feel the same as you do," he said. "Whenever I dance with you, Usagi, or anyone else, I feel like I'm in my own little world, swept away by the atmosphere, the music filling my ears, and my body moving in time. And when I was dancing with you, I was having the time of my life. It also made me remember days of our past lives when we lived on the moon."

He walked a few steps past Mako before turning around.

"Now, I may not be a prince charming or the best dancer in the world," he said with a smile. "But I would love to dance with you again sometime. That is if you want to."

Makoto stared. Then, she gave a heartfelt smile as she walked up to him. "Yeah. Me too," she said. "I also want to dance with you again."

It was then that Unazuki came rushing into the gym. She was excited.

"Hey, you guys! Guess what?!" she cried. "There's a dance party happening next week at the neighboring high school! Any of you want to go?!"

Makoto's face brightened as she became just as excited. "Count me in!" she said eagerly. She then grabbed Harusuke by the hand. "Come on, Harusuke! Let's go!"

Before Harusuke could react, Makoto was already dragging him out of the gym while the others watched them leave.

"Well, that's Mako for you," said Chibiusa. "Always quick to bounce back."

"I guess she's back to her old self again, and there's nothing to worry about," said Usagi.

The others all nodded in agreement.