A Pole Encounter by Ian_Buddy

Ch5: A Battle For Love

Author: SailorAuntieV

Author: Ian_Buddy

Rating: PG

Genre:  Romance

 

Author’s Note: Hey guys, the fifth and final chapter is here *yeah*.  I’m so happy that the story was interesting enough that you made it all the way through.  I hope I don’t disappoint.  There is going to be another action scene, sorry can’t be helped, so I hope you enjoy this chapter.  I also want to thank DaJeanneInABottle for her wonderful and encouraging review, and thank you to asimunek as well.  I really appreciate your kind reviews.  Now enough of all this talking, on with the story.  This story, like my others, is a clean sappy romance (meaning no sex or cursing).  Enjoy!!

 

Disclaimer: SailorMoon, and of course that means Darien, does not belong to me…sob sob sniff!  This story is written only for fun not for profit.

 

A POLE ENCOUNTER

 

 

Chapter 5: A Battle For Love

 

 

“Serena!” Darien screamed as he catapulted himself over the fallen trees.  < Please be alright please.  I can’t lose you now. >

 

Darien’s heart felt like it was crumbing into a thousand pieces.  It had taken him so long to find his true love, and now that he found her it seemed as though life had snatched her from his grasp.  The only thought going through his mind at the moment was getting to Serena.  He hoped and prayed with earnest that she was ok and the tree had not fallen on top of her.

 

As he slid to the ground around where he last saw her, all he could see were broken branches, leaves and tree limbs scattered about.  He immediately began rummaging through the branches in search for her.

 

“Serena,” he continued to call.  “Serena, can you hear me?”  There was no response to his calls, which made him fear the worst.

 

As he cleared away many of the branches he finally spotted her.  He increased his efforts in order to reach her.  < Please be ok.  Hold on Serena, Please hold on, I’m coming. >  Thankfully the tree had narrowly missed her so Darien was able to pull her out.  He quickly looked her over and noticed that she only had a few cuts and bruises but she was still breathing.  Instant relief flooded through his body when he realized she was alive.  So he gently lifted up her limp body and proceeded to carry her out of danger.

 

He quickly found a small clearing that was out of the way of fallen trees.  He laid Serena’s small body on the ground and immediately began checking her vitals.  < She’s still breathing and everything looks ok.  I hope she doesn’t have any internal injuries. >

 

“Serena, sweetheart…please wake up,” he cooed softly as his hand gently caressed her face.

 

Finally he heard a faint moan escape her lips.  Darien’s heart fluttered with joy at the sound.  “Serena, open your eyes honey.  You’re safe now.”

 

Serena could hear the sweet and soothing voice calling to her through the darkness.  She thought for a moment that the voice sounded like Darien’s but she quickly dismissed that thought.  Instead she let the voice pull her out of the darkness and into the light.  The voice felt so warm and safe that she imagined she was in the arms of her love and he was protecting her from danger.  She definitely didn’t want this feeling to go away, but she couldn’t help but obey the soft cajoling commands of the voice.  Therefore she slowly opened her eyes to the bright world.

 

As her eyes gradually adjusted to the light she was finally able to focus on the smiling kind face of whom the voice belonged to.  < Darien! >  Serena was completely caught off guard.  She couldn’t believe that all those sweet adoring words and that complete sense of security came from her long-time enemy.  But here he was staring down at her with what she could only see as love from his eyes.  < This can’t be real, I’m definitely dreaming.  Darien only looks at me this way in my dreams, but I don’t feel like I’m asleep.  He looks so happy to see me, like I just woke up from a coma or something.  Wow he’s handsome.  Why can’t he be concerned about me and so loving towards me when I’m awake? >

 

“Hey sleepy head,” Darien teased lightly.

 

“Hey,” Serena croaked out then cleared her throat.

 

“Are you alright?”

 

“Yeah, I think so,” she responded as she gazed intently into his stormy blue eyes.

 

“Good, I was starting to get worried about you.”

 

< Worried, about me?! >  “Um Darien…am I dreaming?”

 

Darien chuckled, “No Meatball Head, you’re wide awake,” he responded sweetly as his finger gently touched the tip of her nose affectionately.

 

Serena was stunned by his intimate gesture that she didn’t chide him about his use of that hated name.  Actually, for some weird reason, the name kind of sounded like a romantic pet name coming from him. 

 

Darien saw the confusion outlined on her face and started to get concerned.  “Are you sure you’re ok?”

 

Serena quickly snapped out of her stupor, “Yeah, I’m fine.”

 

“Are you achy?  Does anything feel broken?” he asked while helping her to her feet.

 

“No everything feels intact,” she answered as she moved her limbs around.  “But I do feel a slight headache coming on.”

 

“That should be expected.  The tree did knock you unconscious.”

 

“The tree?  What happened?” she asked surprised at his statement.

 

“A yoma came out of nowhere and started throwing trees around.  Unfortunately I wasn’t able to protect you when it threw a couple of trees at us.  I’m sorry Sere that I couldn’t protect you from harm,” he said as he gently brushed the bangs from her eyes.

 

Serena shivered involuntarily to his tender caresses.  < I can’t believe I’m shaking like a schoolgirl, what am I saying I am a schoolgirl.  But Darien’s being so romantic like I’ve always wanted him to, so how else am I suppose to act.  He’s so sweet now instead of his usual obnoxious mean self, and he’s apologizing…to me.  Now I know the world is about to end, my most horrid tormentor, and secret love of my life, is apologizing for not protecting me.  What a wonderful guy. >

 

“I’m just so glad you’re ok,” he finished with a relieved smile.

 

Serena suddenly felt dizzy and slightly breathless with his close proximity, so she took a small step back to give them some breathing space.  “Uh…so where are we?” she asked nervously while trying to avoid eye contact.

 

“In the park,” Darien answered cautiously.  He was a bit confused with her behavior towards him.

 

“The park!” she said with surprise. “How are we in the park?  I thought we were going to the arcade?”

 

Darien was unquestionably confused now.  He had no idea what she was babbling about.

 

Serena looked around frantically wondering how her situation had changed so drastically.  “Where’s Mina?  How did I get here, and why am I here with you?”

 

“Wait a minute, slow down,” he stated calmly at the frenzied girl before him.  “What do you remember?”

 

Serena thought for a second before answering, making sure her thoughts were actually real and not something from a dream.  “I remember…walking to the arcade with Mina.  You were also there…wait a minute, you came later, and we were arguing over something…I can’t remember what.  Yeah the last thing I recall is us arguing, and now I’m here in the park with you.”

 

Darien’s heart instantly broke into a thousand pieces at Serena’s words.  “So you don’t remember anything else,” he whispered sadly to himself.

 

But Serena heard his somber comment and saw the hurt and loneliness in his eyes.  She was very confused by his forlornness.  < What in the world happened that made him react like that?  He looks like a sad little boy who just lost his dog.  What have I done? >

 

“Darien,” Serena said softly as she gently placed her hand on his arm.

 

Darien glanced up into her concerned eyes hoping beyond hope that she remembered their love for one another.

 

“Please, tell me what’s going on.  I feel like I just shoved a dagger through your heart.”

 

He could see the sadness and deep concern emanating from her gaze.  At that moment his heart began to heal.  He could tell by looking deep into her eyes that she loved him.  Darien smiled softly at the knowledge, then took a step forward to close the distance between them.  His hand came up and began to caress her cheek.

 

Serena jumped slightly at the intimate contact but then relaxed as she saw the love pouring from his eyes.  In an instant she knew he felt the same amount of love for her that she had for him.  < I can’t believe it…he loves me.  Wow! >  It appeared at that moment the only people who existed in the world were them.  Time seemed to come to a stop.

 

“Serena, I’ve been wanting to tell you…” but his words were crudely cut off by loud-pitched screams.

 

Serena immediately snapped out of her dream-like state and looked in the direction of the commotion.  She saw people running everywhere with snake-like creatures in hot pursuit.  Some people were already lying on the ground with the snakes wrapped tightly around them absorbing their energy.  Serena realized that she had been so preoccupied with Darien that she hadn’t noticed the dangers around them.  < What in the world is going on?  Wait a minute…didn’t Darien say a yoma threw a tree at us?  Oh no!  I have to get out of here and become Sailormoon.  But how can I?  There’s no way Darien’s going to let me go.  But I have no choice these people need me. >

 

< I can’t believe I forgot about the yoma.  I was so preoccupied with my own feelings that I let all these people’s lives be put in jeopardy.  We need to transform…but Serena, this Serena, doesn’t know I’m Tuxedo Mask.  And she definitely doesn’t know that I’ve discovered her secret identity.  If we transform together she might start asking questions and we don’t have time for that.  What to do? >

 

“Um Darien…I…I need to go…and get help,” she stammered.

 

“Ok,” Darien responded coolly.

 

“Don’t try to stop me, I really need to…what did you say?” she asked as Darien’s response finally registered.

 

“I said ok.  Go get help,” he said with a smile.

 

Serena wasn’t sure if she should be thankful for him being understanding so she didn’t have to formulate a stupid lie, or be ticked off because he was letting her run off into danger.  But she didn’t have time to reflect on such things, innocent people needed her.  Besides, his mannerisms suggested he was being supportive.  “Thank you,” she said kindly then turned to leave.  But before departing she turned back to him, “Darien please find a place to hide.  I’ll feel happier knowing you’re safe,” she pleaded earnestly as she grasped his hands in hers.

 

Darien smiled softly.  It felt good knowing she was so concerned about him.

 

“Promise me,” Serena begged as her eyes desperately sought affirmation.

 

“I promise, I’ll try to be careful,” he said tenderly not removing his gaze from hers.

 

Serena sighed inwardly, < I guess that’s all I can expect from him.  Well it’s better than nothing. >  “Thank you,” she responded with a smile then turned to leave.

 

As she got a few yards away Darien stared after her retreating form in dismay.  < I can’t let her go like this.  If something goes wrong I might not get another opportunity.  I have to stop her. >  “Serena wait,” he called out to her desperately.

 

Serena, upon hearing his call, stopped in her tracks and turned to face him.  < I wonder what happened.  Maybe he forgot something. > she thought as he jogged up to her with a determined look on his face.

 

Darien quickly approached her, and in one swift motion his arms wrapped around her waist and pulled her against him.  Then in a split second, and to Serena’s surprise, his lips captured hers in a gentle but passionate earth-shattering kiss.

 

Serena was stunned and stood rigid as a statue not sure of what was happening.  As realization dawned on her, a millisecond later, she began to return the kiss with as much passion and love as he was giving.  Unconsciously her arms snaked up around his neck causing their bodies to meld into one being as their lips danced to a slow and sensual rhythm.  Nothing else existed in the world at that moment; not her duties as a warrior, not the yoma, nothing.  All that mattered was Darien and how much she loved him, now more than ever.  She had been waiting for this day for so long and now that it had arrived she never wanted it to end.  But, to her disappointment, just as quickly as the sensual kiss began it ended.

 

Darien rested his forehead against hers as they both tried to catch their breaths.  He had poured his heart and soul into that kiss, and he was pleasantly surprised when she had responded with as much intensity.  He had not wanted it to end so soon but he knew there were pressing matters at hand.  But he couldn’t have possibly let her go without first telling her how he felt.

 

As he was finally able to regulate his breathing Darien softly whispered, “I love you Serena, with all my heart I do.”

 

Serena snapped her head up in shock after his heart-felt confession.  Tears quickly sprang into her eyes as his words were completely absorbed into her heart.  < I can’t believe it…he loves me…me!  Oh how I’ve waited so long to hear him say those words.  I know I must be dreaming, nothing this wonderful ever happens in real life.  But I know that kiss was definitely real.  There is no way I could ever imagine something so…wonderful and…amazing.  I must tell him how I feel…that is of course if I don’t burst into tears in the process. >

 

“Darien I…” but before the words could come out her mouth more screams were heard around them.  < Oh no the yoma.  Well I guess my confessions of love will have to wait. >  “I must go.  Please understand.”  She saw the look of sadness in his eyes and it broke her heart knowing that she was the cause.

 

But Darien just smiled then leaned in and gingerly brushed his lips against hers.  “Go get ‘em,” he said then swiftly patted her behind causing a slight yelp to escape from her lips and a red tinge to stain her cheeks.  He then turned on his heel and ran out of the park.

 

Serena stood stunned staring at his retreating from.  Normally she would have been greatly offended by his actions, but not now especially since she knew he loved her.  < Well it’s time to get moving Sere.  There are people who need saving and yomas to be destroyed. >  So she proceeded to run out of the park and into an alleyway so she would not be detected when she transformed.

 

Before her transformation Serena took out her communicator and contacted the other scouts.  “Hey guys.  We have a big nasty yoma here on Kent Street right beside the park.  Get here a.s.a.p,” she stated firmly.

 

Ami’s face appeared on the communicator, “We know, we’re actually on our way.  We should be there in about 2 minutes.”

 

“Great, I’ll try to distract it until you arrive, but please hurry.  You know I can’t stand fighting these things by myself,” Serena responded with forced bravery.

 

“Huh? Serena did you just say…” Ami started but was cut off by Mina.

 

“Hey Sere, how did you know how to work the communicator?  Are you starting to get your memories back?”

 

Serena stared at her friend in confusion, “ What are you talking about Mina?  Never mind, I don’t have time to figure it out I have to help these people.  Hurry and get here please.”

 

After she switched off the communicator she quickly poked her head out of the alley to make sure the coast was clear.  Then she thrust her hand into the air and yelled, “Moon Prism Power…Make up!”  In an instant she transformed into the beautiful sailor-suited solider, Sailormoon.

 

Sailormoon walked out the alley and gasped as she saw dozens of people lying along the ground drained of energy.  Angrily she stomped up to the yoma and demanded its attention.  “Hold it right there yoma!” she yelled with anger dripping from her voice.

 

The creature turned at the sound of her voice and Sailormoon almost fainted with fright.  There before her stood a hideous looking Medusa-like creature.  It had a long snaky body with arms, a long green powerful tail, and a large head with tons of smaller snakes coming out like hair.  She also noticed the yoma’s tail was the thing creating all the damage and destruction.  As it swayed it smashed into buildings causing them to crumble.  She somewhat remembered seeing the tail throw the tree at her and Darien earlier.

 

< Well don’t just stand there gawking at it destroy the thing. > she thought trying to build up her confidence.

 

Sailormoon took a big gulp then faced the yoma squarely.  “How dare you ruin everyone’s peaceful day.  People were enjoying the nice weather, lovers were declaring eternal love for one another, and you had to come and shatter the romantic atmosphere.  For this I will not forgive you.  In the name of the moon, I will punish you,” she stated then finished with a pose.

 

The yoma let out a high-pitched scream then flung its tail at the posing solider.

 

Sailormoon barely managed to dodge out of the way as the tail made a huge crater at the spot in which she had just stood.  She gaped in shook, < I could have been a pancake, or worse.  I change my mind, I don’t want to distract this thing.  I’ll just wait for the other scouts to show up. >

 

Unfortunately the yoma swung its tail at her again.  Sailormoon leapt to the side avoiding the potentially fatal blow.  Then she grabbed her tiara off her head and flung it.  “Moon Tiara…Action!”  The tiara sailed towards the yoma and sliced its belly.

 

The yoma let out an ear-shattering cry as it recoiled in pain.

 

Sailormoon was hopeful, “Yes I’ve weakened it, now for the final…” but she didn’t get a chance to finish as the yoma swiped its tail at her again almost crushing her.  But thankfully she was able to roll out the way before getting pounded.  As she looked up to see where the tail had gone, she immediately realized it was descending upon her.  Not able to avoid the hit she closed her eyes and hoped for a swift painless death.

 

“Fire Soul!” Sailormoon heard the attack called.  She immediately opened her eyes and saw the yoma retreating and screaming in pain as it tried to douse the flames on its tail.  She looked around and noticed the other scouts had arrived, and just in the nick of time.

 

“Looks like I’m always having to save your behind Meatball Head,” Sailor Mars stated arrogantly as she helped Sailormoon off the ground.

 

Sailormoon glared at her companion, “Yeah keep dreaming Fire Ball.  This was nothing compared to me saving your hide last week three times in a row.  So don’t get all high and mighty on me.”

 

Mars was taken aback by Sailormoon’s comment.  “Sailormoon are you feeling ok?” she asked with concern.

 

“Yeah why?”

 

“Because you’re acting strange.”

 

“What do you mean, I always act this way,” Sailormoon answered with confusion.

 

“No I mean…are you starting to remember?”

 

“What?” Sailormoon asked baffled at her friend’s question.  < What is wrong with her?  First Mina asks me weird questions now Mars.  What is going on? >  But she didn’t have time to think about it as the yoma’s tail almost took her head off, thankfully Mars pushed her down in time.  “Thanks.”

 

“No problem, just saving you again,” Mars laughed then got up and ran over to help her friends fight.

 

Sailormoon rolled her eyes at the fire warrior.  < Just wait until this is over you arrogant, cocky girl.  I’m gonna… >  As she was conjuring up ways to torture her friend a familiar figure caught her attention out the corner of her eye.  She looked closely and noticed it was…Darien!  < What in the world is he doing here, and why isn’t he hiding? >

 

She noticed that he was helping a woman who seemed to have her stroller stuck.  Sailormoon was touched by his act of kindness, and at the same time upset that he had broken his promise to her.

 

Suddenly the yoma pummeled the scouts with its long tail.  Jupiter and Venus both flew against a building, Mars up into a tree, and Mercury into a car.  Sailormoon gasped, < My friends they’re hurt.  What should I… >  But before she could finish her thought she saw the yoma take off towards the area where Darien was standing.  < Oh no, he’ll be killed! >

 

“Darien, look out!” she yelled.

 

Darien lifted his head and noticed the yoma’s tail swinging in his direction.  Reflexively he grabbed the lady and her baby and plunged to the ground just as the tail swooped over them smashing into the store window.  < Wow that was a close one.  Why I didn’t transform earlier is beyond me.  I probably could have been more helpful if I had.  But this woman needed help and I couldn’t just leave her. >

 

He glanced down at the hysterical women beneath him then up again at the yoma.  At that moment the yoma reached up and grabbed a couple of snakes off its head and flung it towards them.  < Oh great, we’re in trouble. > he thought with dread as the snakes slithered their way towards them.  He knew if those snakes got a hold of him they would suck all the energy out of him as they’ve done to all their other victims.

 

“Moon Tiara…Action!” he heard Sailormoon yell as her tiara sliced through the snakes causing them to disintegrate into dust.

 

Darien let out a sigh of relief thankful for the help.

 

The yoma, on the other hand, was not as pleased, so it angrily whipped its tail at Sailormoon barely missing her.

 

Sailormoon jumped around the street trying to avoid the assault, but she was nicked by the tail and stumbled to the ground.

 

Darien witnessed the yoma attacking the sailor warrior and knew he had to help her before she got killed.  So he quickly rolled off the frenzied woman, “Stay here, I’ll be back for you.”

 

The woman nodded them clutched onto her wailing baby for dear life.

 

Darien ran over to the store whose window was just smashed by the yoma’s tail.  He picked up a huge plane of glass and with all his might flung it like a Frisbee at the creature.  The glass crashed into the yoma knocking it over and taking a large slice out of its back.

 

The yoma let out a horrific scream then turned angry red bloodthirsty eyes in his direction.  Before he knew it the yoma was charging towards him at an impeccable speed.  < Oh no not again. >

 

“Darien run!” Sailormoon yelled.

 

But Darien ignored her and picked up another plane of glass to throw, but the yoma was approaching faster this time and he knew he wouldn’t have time to avoid the collision.

 

Suddenly the yoma came to an abrupt halt about ten or so feet from him still snarling and growling.  Curious he looked around and noticed that Sailor Venus had the creature’s tail in her ‘Love-Me-Chain’ hold.  The yoma desperately tried to get its tail freed by flinging it and the warrior from side to side.  As Sailor Venus flew through the air, still not letting up, the light from her ‘Love-Me-Chain’ flashed brightly into the plane of glass Darien was still holding.  The light reflected off the glass into the yoma’s face.  The creature shrieked in terror and tried to recoil from the light.  In the process many of the snakes atop its head began to shrivel up.

 

Darien was shocked at the creature’s reaction but didn’t have time to contemplate it as the blinded yoma started to smash its tail repeatedly into the building right over him.  Reacting fast Darien grabbed the woman and child and quickly tried to haul them into the shop as the outside walls of the building came crashing down around them.

 

“Darien!” Sailormoon screamed in horror as she saw the building fall on top of them.

 

“Fire Soul,” the fire scout bellowed as she set loose her power.

 

The other scouts followed suit, except Sailormoon.  Tears began to course down her cheeks as reality sunk in.  < He’s dead.  Darien is dead.  No…he can’t…No! >  A huge feeling of loneliness, loss, sorrow, and dread bombarded her senses all at once.  Without thinking she dashed over to the rubble and began frantically digging through the stones and bricks in search of him.  < I can’t believe I let this happen.  I can’t believe I couldn’t protect him.  I didn’t even get a chance to tell him… >

 

She was so concentrated on searching for him and so overcome with grief that she was oblivious to the chaos occurring around her.   The scouts were throwing everything they had at the yoma but it still didn’t seem like it was enough.

 

Unexpectedly the yoma’s tail whipped through the air and landed hard on the ground causing the earth to shake violently and the scouts to fall off balance.  The yoma took that opportunity and flung a multitude of energy sucking snakes at the scouts, including Sailormoon.

 

The scouts fired at the hoard of snakes as they neared.  Sailor Mars saw some of the snakes headed towards Sailormoon.  She wondered why the girl wasn’t paying attention to the dangers around her and was digging around in rocks.

 

“Sailormoon watch out!” Mars yelled.  But Sailormoon did not hear her friend’s warnings.  “Sailormoon… Sailormoon!”  < What is that girl doing, trying to get herself killed?  Well now I’m gonna have to save her behind again. > she thought as she sprinted off to save her friend.  Mars fired off a few shots but she was too far away to get the ones close to Sailormoon.  A feeling of dread came over her when she knew she wouldn’t get there in time.

 

Then out of nowhere a dozen or so roses came falling from the sky and landed on the snakes turning them to dust.  Sailormoon looked up in surprise as Tuxedo Mask approached her.

 

“Sailormoon, why are you standing there digging through rocks when you have a job to do?” he chastised.

 

Sailormoon didn’t move a muscle, instead she glared menacingly at her stylish savior.  Tuxedo Mask was taken aback by the fierce look in her eyes.  Her eyes seemed filled with overwhelming sadness, and a bit of hatred towards him.  That’s when he noticed her dirt covered tear streaked face.  The sight of her looking so sad and filled with pain about broke his heart.  “Sailormoon,” he breathed.

 

“I don’t care anymore,” he thought he heard her whisper.

 

Tuxedo Mask reached out to place his hand gently on her shoulder, but to his surprise she harshly swatted his hand away.

 

“I DON’T CARE ANYMORE!” she yelled as tears continued to stream down her face.  “I can’t…do this.  I just can’t anymore,” she continued in a softer and tear-strained voice.

 

Tuxedo Mask knelt down beside her shaking form and gently lifted her face up to look at him.  “Why have you given up Sailormoon?” he asked softly.

 

“You wouldn’t understand.  You’ll just think I’m some stupid crybaby,” she responded venomly.

 

He smiled kindly at her, “Try me.”  He could hear the scouts battling with the yoma in the background.  They seemed to have everything under control for the time being so he knew it was safe enough to give comfort to the love of his life.

 

Sailormoon took her gaze away from his and settled it back towards the hated stones.  “I lost someone very special to me.”

 

“Did this person…did he mean that much to you?” he asked cautiously.

 

She looked back up at him with only sadness in her eyes, all traces of anger gone.  “ I love him…more than I’ve ever loved anyone else in the world.  And now…*sniff*…now I’ll never get the chance to tell him.”

 

Tuxedo Mask’s heart began to soar after hearing her confession.  How he had waited to hear those words spoken from her lips.  He smiled sweetly, tears filling his eyes, then he lifted his hands and tenderly wiped the tears from her cheeks.  “Please don’t cry Sailormoon, it always breaks my heart when you cry.  Besides, your love is still alive.”

 

Sailormoon gasped in shock, “He…he’s alive?  How do you know?”

 

“Because I’m…” he began but suddenly sensed danger behind him.  In a swift move he grabbed Sailormoon and jumped out the way of a couple of vipers that were about to pounce on them.  He strategically threw out a few roses turning them to dust.  < Wow, that was close.  We need to focus and get back to the battle before it’s too late.  I guess my confessions of undying love will have to wait. >  “We need to get back to this battle Sailormoon, come on,” he said rising from the ground.

 

He was about to drag her to the fighting when she suddenly whipped him back against the ground pinning him to the spot.  “We aren’t going anywhere until you tell me where Darien is,” she bit out forcefully.

 

Tuxedo Mask was momentarily shocked by her actions, but then had to suppress the urge to smile at her deep concern for him.  < Now is not the time. >  “Darien is…safe,” he said hoping to quench her worrying.

 

“How do you know?”

 

“Because I rescued him, including the woman and baby.  They are all safe.”

 

A flood of emotions washed over her like the feelings of relief, happiness, elation, and so much more balled up into one.  Impulsively she threw herself into his arms hugging him with all her might.

 

Tuxedo Mask couldn’t help but chuckle slightly at her brazen behavior.

 

As quickly as she was in his arms she released him, “Please take me to him.  I want to see him.”

 

“Not just yet.”

 

“What do you mean?  Why not?” she questioned with hostility.

 

He chuckled again at her quick change of demeanor.  “Because we have to destroy this yoma first.”

 

Sailormoon’s face turned red from embarrassment.  < Oh my goodness, I completely forgot about the yoma.  I was so worried about Darien that nothing else mattered. >

 

“Now let’s get going before you actually do lose someone important to you,” he said as he got up off the ground.

 

“Yes,” she agreed then rose from the ground dusting herself off.

 

“First we need to get over to Mercury.  I have a plan that might defeat this monster,” he stated as they made their way over to the scout.

 

*****

 

“I think your plan just might work,” Mercury acknowledged after Tuxedo Mask told his ideas to the group.

 

“Are you sure Mercury?” Sailormoon asked worriedly.

 

“If my calculations are correct, and they usually are, then we should be able to destroy this thing,” Mercury confirmed.

 

“Great!  Then let’s go kick some yoma tail,” Jupiter added with gusto.

 

“I’m game.  As long as I can avoid being hit with that tail again,” Mars commented as she winced in pain from her injuries.

 

“You are such a baby Mars,” Sailormoon teased while sticking her tongue out.

 

“Excuse me Moon Head, but at least I have been doing something, unlike you,” Mars retorted with fire.

 

“Hey that’s not fair,” Sailormoon whined.

 

“Enough you two, finish this little spat later.  Right now we’ve got work to do,” Mercury fussed.

 

“That’s right,” Venus chimed in, “Let’s do it.”

 

Everyone gathered around the yoma to get into position for the attack.  The yoma saw the scouts surrounding it and so it stood there in anticipation waiting for their useless attacks to proceed.  As the yoma eyed the bothersome scouts its gaze fell on Sailormoon.  The creature let out a loud roar then dashed towards the stunned warrior.

 

Sailormoon stood in shock not believing how bad her luck was.  But before the yoma got too close it abruptly stopped its forward progression as a series of roses fell in its path.

 

“Sailor Mars now!” Tuxedo Mask yelled as he swiftly swept Sailormoon away from danger.

 

“Fire Soul!” Mars sounded as a river of fire flowed from her hands and surrounded the yoma in a ring of flames.

 

The yoma screeched loudly then tried to recoil from the bright flames but realized it was trapped.  Panicking it started to throw out snakes towards the scouts.  Unfortunately for the snakes they were instantly dusted by Jupiter’s lightening bolts and Tuxedo Mask’s roses.

 

“Ready Venus?” Mercury prepped.

 

“Ready,” Venus sang.

 

“Now!” Mercury commanded.

 

“Venus Love-Me-Chain,” Venus called aiming the chain at the yoma’s head of snakes.

 

The yoma squeaked in surprise as the metal chain wrapped around its hair causing its head to be yanked backwards.

 

“Bubbles Spray Freezing!” Mercury said creating a huge wall of ice in front of the creature.

 

“Supreme Thunder!” Jupiter yelled causing a barrage of lightening to hit the wall of ice.  As the lightening struck the ice the light radiantly reflected off causing the yoma to scream out in pain as the snakes on its head began to shrivel and turn to stone.

 

“Now Sailormoon,” Tuxedo Mask whispered to the meatball headed sailor solider.

 

“Right!  Moon Tiara…Action!” she said as she flung her tiara at the practically stoned yoma.

 

The yoma’s screams came to an immediate halt as the tiara sliced off its head.  The head rolled lazily to the ground then it and the rest of the body slowly disintegrated into dust.

 

In the next few seconds the sky began to clear as the sun’s luminous rays broke through, and everything was calm and peaceful again.  People who were lying about started to regain their energy.  The scouts jumped for joy and began congratulating each other for their amazing display of teamwork.

 

“That was so awesome,” Venus laughed merrily.

 

“It definitely was,” Jupiter added.  “But this attack was more difficult than previous ones.”

 

“I agree Jupiter,” Mercury commented.  “We definitely need to have a scouts meeting tonight to strategize and reevaluate our game plan to avoid these kinds of tedious and time consuming battles in the future.”  Everyone nodded at Mercury’s complex but accurate assessment of the situation.  “If it wasn’t for Tuxedo Mask’s keen eye we might not have been as successful.”

 

At the mentioning of the masked hero Sailormoon’s head snapped up.  Her eyes immediately started to scan the surrounding area.  < Where in the world did he go?  He wouldn’t just leave after he promised to bring me to Darien…would he?  I doubt it.  I don’t believe he’s our enemy after all he’s done to help us.  So were is…there he is! >  She finally spied him heading into an alley.  But before entering he stopped and turned his head towards her.  Their eyes met for a brief second like he was making sure she saw him.  Then with a smile plastered on his face he took off into the alley.  < Did he just leave me?!  I can’t believe it, he promised.  How dare he do one of his disappearing acts and leave me hurting and wondering. >

 

“You jerk!” she unconsciously said aloud.

 

All the scouts stopped celebrating and turned to face their leader after her sudden outlandish outburst.

 

“Wh-what are you talking about Sailormoon?” Venus questioned.  But instead of receiving an answer Sailormoon darted off in the direction of the alley.  “Wait…where are you going?” she cried out to her departing friend.

 

The other scouts looked on in shock not knowing what to do.

 

“What did you say to her Venus?” Mars questioned accusingly.

 

“Nothing,” Venus responded innocently.  “Seriously!  We were all celebrating then for no reason she yelled out ‘You Jerk’, then took off.”

 

“Well you shouldn’t have acted like a jerk,” Mars continued to tease.

 

Venus let out an exasperated breath, “She wasn’t talking to me, she was looking towards the alley when she said it.”

 

“Well maybe that Meatball Head not only lost her memory when she walked into the pole yesterday, she lost her sanity too,” Mars stated with a smile.

 

“Get real Mars,” Venus started but Jupiter cut her off.

 

“No wait a minute, Mars might have a point.”

 

The other scouts looked at Jupiter like she had just grown a second head.

 

“Thanks Jupiter, I’m glad to see I’m not the only one who feels that way.”

 

“No that’s not what I meant,” Jupiter corrected.  “All I’m saying is that she’s been acting more different than she was this morning.”

 

“You’re right I did notice a change in her behavior,” Mars replied with sincerity.

 

“Maybe something’s wrong,” Mercury said with concern in her voice.

 

Everyone nodded their agreement.

 

“Well let’s go after her then,” Venus chimed in then set off running towards the alley.

 

The others briefly looked at each other then took off after Venus.

 

*****

 

< I think I lost her…finally! > Tuxedo Mask thought as he peered his head around the corner.  He had been running for some time, jumping across buildings, and dodging in and out of alleys trying to evade her.  < Sailormoon is definitely a headstrong resilient girl.  If she had just stayed put I would have come to her. >  He knew that Sailormoon was following him because she wanted to know the whereabouts of Darien.  But he wasn’t quite sure he was ready to disclose his identity to her yet.  Actually he so badly wanted to real himself, so he had tried to sneak away and then later return as Darien.  He assumed her pain would be easily healed by Darien’s arrival than by Tuxedo Mask telling her his true identity.  Unfortunately for him it didn’t seem as though he had that option…until now.

 

“Yup I think I lost her.  Goodness that girl is persistent,” he murmured to himself as he turned around to detransform out of sight.  “Finally I can go tell Ser…oofh!” he exclaimed as he held his stomach after the wind got knocked out of him with a strong kick to the gut.  He lifted his head and his gaze was met by stormy blue ones.  If looks could kill he would be a crispy fried chicken.  So what else could a guy in that kind of situation do?  “Hey,” he said with a bright but pained smile.

 

But for some unknown reason, yeah right, she didn’t seem to be very receptive to his warm greeting.  Instead she grabbed him by the shirt and slammed him hard against the wall.

 

Tuxedo Mask coughed roughly and tried to take in deep breaths to continue the flow of oxygen to his lungs after all the air was thrown out of him.  After regaining most of his composure he again looked up into Sailormoon’s steaming eyes, “So I see you caught up to me.”

 

“You’re not that hard to follow,” she stated icily, eyes still boring a hole through him.

 

Tuxedo Mask chuckled at her harsh tone, which only infuriated her more.

 

Sailormoon tightened her grip on his shirt and hit him against the wall.  “Now you listen to me, I don’t know who you think you are, and I don’t care if you are our ally or not.  What I do care about is Darien, and I want to know what you did with him,” she growled.

 

“I told you he was safe.  Don’t you believe me?” he asked gently trying to douse her flames of hate.

 

“No!” she yelled and threw him against the wall again sending him into another bout of coughs.  “I’m going to ask you one more time, where is Darien?”  Her aggressive demeanor would make even the toughest man quiver in his pants, but he knew her fire was being fueled out of love for him.

 

Once he recovered from the blow he couldn’t stop a little bit of a smirk from crossing his lips.  “Jeez Meatball Head, I’ve never seen you this rough before.  It’s a whole new side to you…I like it.”

 

Sailormoon was completely caught off guard by his comment and instantly released her grip on him as she stumbled back a few steps.  < Did he just call me Meatball Head?  No he couldn’t…there’s no way he could be… >

 

Tuxedo Mask continued to smile at her knowing the truth was finally sinking in.

 

Feeling shocked and confused she slowly walked up to the masked hero and, with shaky hands, proceeded to remove his mask.  Once his eyes were freed from the white cloth she let out a huge gasp.  The mask floated to the ground as her hands automatically flew up to her mouth.  < Darien!  Tuxedo Mask is really Darien.  I don’t believe it…why didn’t I ever see it before.  Unbelievable. >

 

Darien removed his top hat then gazed at his beloved warrior and smiled brightly, “Surprise!”  He could see the multitude of emotions crossing her face.  She then closed her teary eyes for a brief second to let it all sink in, and when she reopened them he couldn’t quite read her expression.

 

With a serious and determined look on her face Sailormoon stepped back up next to him, and without warning punched him in the face.

 

Darien was stunned that she just hit him.  “What in the world did you hit me for?”

 

“That’s for making me think you were dead,” she replied harshly.

 

Darien’s face softened as he let out a small chuckle.  “I told you I was safe.  You just didn’t believe me.”

 

Sailormoon just continued to stare back at him, her face still unreadable.

 

“Look Sere, I managed to run into the store before the wall fell on us.  I wanted to tell you what had happened as soon as I saw you but since you didn’t know I was Tuxedo Mask then I had to wait.”  Still he saw no change in her expression. 

 

He so badly wanted to hold her in his arms and take the hurt away.  He loved her so much and he couldn’t stand to see her like that.  So he held out his arms and moved to hug her.  “I’m sorry Sere, I was just trying to protect…oofh!”  Darien wasn’t able to finish his sentence because Sailormoon’s fist connected with his face…again.  His hands quickly went to his face to check for blood.  Thankfully there wasn’t any…yet.  At the rate she was going he was going to end up in the hospital before long.  Now he was getting annoyed with her behavior.  < What is her problem?  I just explained the situation to her.  First she’s beating me up because she loves me, now I’m getting my butt kicked ‘cause she hates me.  Ok now that sounds weird. >

 

“Why did you hit me again?  I just apologized for not telling you.”

 

“That’s for lying to me and not telling me sooner that you were Tuxedo Mask.”

 

Darien sighed in exasperation and ran his fingers through his hair.  “I’m sorry Sere…sweetheart.  I should have told you.  But in fairness you never told me that you were Sailormoon.  I had to figure that out myself.”

 

Her features began to relax and she nodded in understanding.  “You’re right, I’m sorry,” she said as a soft smile broke through her stony features.

 

Darien’s heart started to soar once he saw the smile on her face.  He wanted to grab her and pull her to him then kiss the daylights out of her.  But he quickly held back his emotions as he remembered her last reaction.  “You know I would really love to hold you right now, but I won’t,” he stated cautiously.

 

“W-why not?” she asked, her face crestfallen.

 

“Because I need you to promise not to hit me anymore.  You do realize that you are still a sailor solider and your punches hurt.  I think the next hit might break a bone and mess up my striking good looks,” he said with a smirk.

 

Sailormoon giggled at his playful arrogance, but then in a split second her face went from smiling to serious again.

 

< Oh crap!  What did I say now?  I was just kidding, good grief.  Please don’t hit me again. > he thought with dread.

 

Sailormoon swiftly closed the distance between them and Darien braced himself for another assault.  Then right before the attack he saw a mischievous little grin dancing on her lips and laughter in her eyes.  Before he could comment she clasped his face between both hands, pulled his head down, and captured his lips in a sweet and tantalizing kiss.

 

Darien was pleasantly shocked by her boldness.  After all the months of teasing, fighting, and agonizing wait he had finally captured her heart.  But to his disappointment, before he could respond fully and deepen the kiss she pulled away.  He looked deep into her loving eyes and smiled.

 

“That was because I’m so happy you’re alive, and because…I love you,” she said with all the love pouring from her heart.  “I almost died back there when I thought you were dead, and because I never got the chance to tell you how I felt.”

 

Tear began to stream down her face and Darien very tenderly wiped them away but did not speak.

 

“Now that I’m given another chance I won’t let this opportunity slip away.  I love you Darien Shields!  I fell in love with you the first moment I saw you but I was too stubborn to admit it.  Somehow I feel like I’ve loved you longer than that, but I know that’s impossible.  That probably sounds silly to you, but that’s just how I feel.”

 

“No it doesn’t sound silly,” Darien said soothingly as his arms snaked around her waist pulling her against his body.  “I feel the same way, as though I’ve loved you forever…and finally I’m able to tell you.”

 

Sailormoon gazed lovingly into his eyes as tears of joy continued to fall from hers.  She couldn’t believe what she was hearing, the love of her life confessed the same strong feelings for her.  It took a tremendous amount of willpower to not throw herself at him and crush every bone in his body because of her overabundant euphoria.

 

“I love you Serena Tsukino with all my heart and soul.”  With that Darien closed the last bit of distance between them as his lips found hers in a hot searing kiss.

 

< I can’t believe this is happening.  I’ve definitely died and gone to heaven this time. > she thought as her arms instinctively wrapped around his neck to pull him in closer, if that was even possible.

 

As the kiss deepened the two lovebirds were so engrossed in one another that they didn’t hear multiple footsteps approaching.  “Hey I found her you guys,” they heard the bubble voice behind them.

 

“Sailormoon…huff huff…we finally found…” Venus stopped in mid-sentence when she realized what she was witnessing, “…you.”

 

All the other scouts stopped dead in their tracks as the lip-locked couple came into view.

 

Reluctantly the kiss ended and they both desperately gasped for air.  < Why now! > Sailormoon thought and sighed with frustration.  < Out of all the times to show up they had to come when I was getting my groove on…I mean having an innocent embrace with Darien.  *blush* >

 

She looked up into Darien’s sapphires and knew he was thinking the same thoughts.  Although he did have a mischievous smirk on his lips, which made her begin to think he was enjoying this little embarrassing moment.  < You are still the same arrogant punk as before…but now you’re my punk. > she thought with a smile.  < Well, gotta tell the girls the truth sooner or later…later would have been preferable. >

 

“Hey girls,” she said as she slowly turned around to face her friends.  Once she faced the scouts a collective gasp was heard.  < Why do they have to be soooo dramatic? >  “I know this is probably shocking to you guys.”

 

“That’s an understatement,” Mars remarked sarcastically crossing her arms in agitation.

 

Sailormoon suddenly felt a bit guilty.  She knew Rei has had a crush on Tuxedo Mask for a while now after she gave up hope on trying to get Darien’s attention.

 

“I can’t believe it,” Venus squealed, “Darien is Tuxedo Mask and Tuxedo Mask is Darien, wow!”

 

“Great deduction Venus, I wonder how you figured that out,” Mars patronized.

 

Venus stuck her tongue out at the fire warrior.

 

“So why didn’t you tell us you were Tuxedo Mask?” Jupiter questioned.

 

“The same reason why you didn’t reveal your identity to me Lita,” Darien shot back.

 

Jupiter’s eyes went wide in shock, as well as everyone else’s, including Sailormoon.  “H-how did you know that?” Jupiter stuttered.

 

Darien chuckled at their stunned expressions, “After I found out about Serena I figured out who you guys were.  Lita, Ami, Rei, and Mina,” he said emphasizing each scout’s name as he eyed them individually.

 

“Wha…I don’t believe it,” Venus shrieked.

 

“There’s no way you could have known, unless…” Mars stated then everyone’s eyes turned to glare at Sailormoon.

 

Sailormoon cringed as angry eyes looked fiercely at her.  “Why are you guys looking at me like that?”

 

“Sailormoon how could you tell Darien your secret?” Mercury finally spoke.

 

“B-but I didn’t, honest.”

 

“Fess up Meatball Brains we know you did,” Mars fussed.

 

“Wait a minute,” Darien interrupted the assault.  “She didn’t tell me.  What I meant was I figured it out myself.  Once I knew Serena was Sailormoon it all seemed to come together.  Everything just started to make sense.”

 

To Sailormoon’s relief her friends believed him.

 

After a little awkward silence Mercury broke the ice, “So how did you discover Serena’s identity?”

 

“Let’s just say amnesia seemed to be affecting them both simultaneously.”

 

“Ah,” everyone exclaimed knowingly.

 

Sailormoon looked at her friends with confusion.  “What so you guys mean by ‘Ah’?  What is going on?”

 

Now it was the scouts’ turn to be confused.

 

“During the yoma attack Serena got injured and regained her memories,” Darien clarified.

 

“Oh I see,” Mercury giggled.

 

“So does this mean you’re back to normal?” Venus sang with joy.

 

“Venus what are you talking about?” Sailormoon asked with irritation.

 

“She appears to be,” Mercury stated as she quickly w scanned Sailormoon with her min-computer.  “How about we detransform and finish this discussion at the temple.  I hear too many people walking about out there and anyone could easily stumble upon us.”

 

“Good idea,” Jupiter said as she transformed back into her real self.

 

Everyone else followed suit except Sailormoon.

 

“Hello!” Sailormoon yelled, “What is going on?”

 

Darien came up from behind and wrapped his strong arms around her shoulders.  “Don’t worry sweetheart, we’ll explain everything to you at the temple,” he whispered in her ear then placed soft butterfly kisses on her neck sending shivers down her spine.  She leaned back against his warm muscular chest relishing in the feel of his protective embrace.

 

“Come on you two lovebirds, lets go,” Rei said with a smile.

 

Sailormoon sighed then painfully disengaged herself from Darien’s embrace and proceeded to change back into her self.  “Ok I’m ready,” Serena said cheerfully then grabbed Darien’s hand and started out the alley with the rest of the girls.

 

“So Sere,” Mina chirped as she snaked her arm through Serena’s arm in a friendly gesture.  “What exactly were you and Darien doing back there?”

 

Both Serena’s and Darien’s face turned a bright shade of red at Mina’s probing comment.

 

Serena cleared her throat lightly before answering then stared at her nosey friend right in the eye.  “What do you think we were doing?” she said with a wicked smile.

 

Mina giggled, “Probably something I would do with my ‘Dream Guy’,” she said with a wink.

 

Both girls erupted into giggles, Darien smiled, and the other girls looked at each other in confusion.

 

The End

 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

 

End of Pole Encounter Chapter 5

 

I’M FINISHED!!!!!!!!!!!  I hope everyone enjoyed this story.  Wow I can’t believe it I’ve finally completed a story.  Mind you I have at least 5 stories that I have started but not finished, and about 45 more that I have outlines for.  Thank you to everyone who have kept me writing, and thanks for being patient and sticking it out with me.  Please checkout some of my other stories when I eventually get them posted. :)  I don’t like to post unfinished stories because who knows when I’ll get around to finishing them.  So hopefully I’ll get the next stories out soon.  Thanks again everyone for reading. *hugs*  Remember if you need to comment please be kind.  Luv you guys.  God Bless!!

 

V-Chan

February 9, 2006

Revised: June 8, 2007

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