Chapter 5: The Geometry of Shadows
Following ChibiUsas recount of the incident with the Nijizuishou Crystal, the Senshi were lost in thought. ChibiUsa-chan may I see your transformation broach for a moment, I would like to scan it, Ami asked.
Ok, ChibiUsa replied as she removed her broach and handed it over the blue haired girl.
Accepting the broach from ChibiUsa, Ami began to scan it. Then upon finishing her scans, she brought up data she had collected shortly after she first became Sailor Mercury when she was using her computer to scan everything Senshi related in an attempt to see how they all worked. Unfortunately, she had not been able to understand how the items gave them their power; however, she had saved the results of her scans of Usagis broach and now she compared those stored scans to the ones that she had just taken.
Finally nearly ten minutes later, Ami spoke, I think that I may have a partial reason for why that crystal teleported to ChibiUsa during the battle. The crystal appears to be resonating with a crystal inside ChibiUsas broach. At first I missed that there as a crystal in the heart of her broach and even now that I have determined that there is one there it is still nearly impossible for me to detect; it is almost as if it is just a shadow of one.
A shadow of another crystal? Luna thought to herself as she pondered Amis statements. Wait a moment, Neo-Queen Serenity would have the Ginzuishou, could that locket contain a projection of the crystal allowing ChibiUsa access to the crystals powers? Realizing that to be the answer, Luna declared, Thats it! gaining quite a few puzzled looks from the other Senshi. Continuing she said, That crystal from today is a fragment of the Ginzuishou. When Queen Serenity defeated the Shadow Warriors, she sealed them into the Ginzuishou. The crystal must have shattered into seven fragments when she sent it to earth. Each fragment being born much the way your Sailor Crystals were. Only that in this case a new soul also accompanied the crystal fragment in the rebirth.
Huh? responded all but Ami. For Ami, her response was Sailor Crystal? What is that?
I dont remember. That term just came up in my head; I dont remember anything beyond the term. How about you Artemis?
No, I dont remember anything either, only that it feels like that it should be a very basic concept. Hopefully our memories will start sorting themselves out soon. Anyways, that is not important. What is, is that that crystal is a fragment of the Ginzuishou.
And ChibiUsas broach contains a projection of the Ginzuishou of the future, continued Luna. While that is all good there is a very big downside, as that Dark Kingdom General almost certainly has realized that he wont be able to collect any more of the crystal fragments while ChibiMoon is around. Consequently, we must be prepared for them to make concerted efforts to eliminate ChibiUsa.
That statement chilled the others as their euphoria of having been able to one-up the enemy turned to fear over what was going to happen the next time their paths crossed. For Usagi, she wrapped her arms tightly around ChibiUsa, not wanting anything to happen to her daughter. She wanted to very much prohibit her daughter from participating in any more of the battles, but knew that like herself that her daughter would not react well to such a prohibition.
Seeing the mood that had fallen over the others, Luna decided that some distraction was needed and so she said, Now since we are all here, why dont we do some training.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Elsewhere in the city
Rubeus was currently wandering around the seedier parts of the city. His stay here in the past was now indefinite, so he was going to need a source of income. While he could go out and rob banks, that was not a good way to keep a low profile. Unfortunately, being a traveler from the future prevented him from having the necessary documentation to perform any reputable work, not that many of those jobs would appeal to him, hence the reason why he was currently wandering around this particular portion of town. Most people kept out, afraid of what went on, but those things did not scare him.
He had taken the liberty earlier to acquire some basic means of disguising himself from the rabbit. While the threat of running into her was low, he knew that the way his luck was currently going he would. So, he now wore a cloak that obscured his identity, but afforded him plenty of mobility. And in case someone got a close look at his face, he now wore a headband covering the mark of his family, a family that now longer existed.
Hey buddy I suggest that you reverse your direction and leave this area if you know what is good for you, challenged a voice from his side.
Turning and observing the voice, he removed the hood before smiling. And why should I leave, you are nowhere near the strength of a Senshi. Pulling a large knife that he had also acquired; Rubeus prepared for the inevitable surprise attack from his flanks. When it did come, he was most disappointed, but that is what you get when you fight ordinary humans. Keeping true, Rubeus refrained from using obvious shows of his power. While he did not hold any regard for the life of these humans, he did refrain from killing them.
Instead, he just smiled and turned to the gentleman who had first addressed him. I think your friends here are not much use in protecting your territory. They were not a challenge at all; I am surprised that you and the rest of your friends have not already been removed.
The large grin on Rubeuss face was unnerving to the man who found his earlier bravado flee him as turned and fled down back into the alleys. The battle was not, however, unwatched. From the shadows, a recruiter of talent watched this newcomer with anticipation. He would be a perfect addition to the organization. I think I will follow him some more.
As much as the watcher thought that he was unnoticed, Rubeus was quite aware of the mans presence and therefore knew that his plan was starting to come together. He only hoped that his admirer would not take too long before letting himself be known; he needed to develop his intelligence network quickly. Something told him that things were going to move faster than the version of history that he had studied before coming to the past.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Dark Kingdom Base
Zoisite, why have you failed to obtain that crystal! stated a very pissed off queen.
Bowing even lower and with a very humble voice, Zoisite replied, Your majesty, I am at fault for not being prepared for the sudden new strength of our enemy. I was not prepared for the new Senshi that joined in todays battle.
More Senshi?!? bellowed an even more irate queen.
Yes my lady, two more Senshi joined the battle, one calling herself Sailor Venus, the other Sailor ChibiMoon. Sailor Venus appears to be as much a threat as Mars. Though, I was not about to risk my hide to find out for sure. But, Sailor ChibiMoon does not appear to be a threat, for she is but a child, a pint sized version of that annoyance Sailor Moon.
You were chased off by a child? growled a now even more displeased queen.
My queen, if you would let me explain. ChibiMoon by herself is not a threat, but she was somehow able to call the Nijizuishou Crystal to herself. Her broach seems to resonate in energy with the Nijizuishou Crystal. I am afraid that any other attempts to acquire the Nijizuishou Crystals will meet with similar fates, if that brat is around.
My queen, I have to agree with Zoisites interpretation. We will need to change our plans based on the presence of that child, came the words from another male voice. The owner of the voice had previously been unnoticed in the room, but now his presence was noted.
Kunzite, since you seem to agree with Zoisites interpretation I am placing the two of you in charge of collecting the Nijizuishou Crystals. If I do not see those crystals soon, both of you will face the same fate as Jadeite. You are dismissed. The threat caused both Kunzite and Zoisite to shiver.
After they left the chambers Zoisite asked, Why did you do that for me back there?
There was nothing you could have done differently, and I believe it will take two to obtain those crystals, without letting the Sailor Senshi get anymore. If I had not spoken, Beryl in her mood would most likely have killed you, and without the help of another, I too would soon have met with Beryls temper. Now come, we must plan our next attack.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back in the underside of Tokyo
Wanderer I think that we may be of beneficial use to each other. I have seen how you handle yourself in a fight, and I like what I see. You have lots of talent, and I know of one who would pay well for your services. Rubeuss silent watcher finally said as he separated himself from the shadows.
Rubeus turned to address his tail for the past six hours. Is that so? What do you have in mind and why should I aid you?
Right to the point, I should not have expected less after seeing this fellow in action. Your fighting skills are excellent, and my boss has need for soldiers. But, I get the feeling that you have far more to offer, and I am sure that a position in our organization to your liking can be found. You have the stance and eyes of a leader of men and those are always in need. As to why you should consider my employer. Well it appears that you are not of this area, and the way you have been wondering this part of town I assume that you are in need of the kind of employment that I can provide. Additionally you are probably in need of an identity, of which would be no problem for us.
You are right on your assumptions. I am willing to listen to your employers offer. My name is Rubeus. The last part he stated while removing his hood. What the watcher saw in the eyes of the man that now stood in front of him confirmed all his assumptions about the mans abilities, but also sent a chill down his spine, causing him to think I do not want to be on the opposite side of that man.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A week later
The meeting with the employer had gone very well. Rubeus relayed a fairly accurate account of his past, though one with massive holes. However, even with those holes, the others seemed to buy that he was a general from a foreign country whose organization had recently bought the dust. There were enough wars going around that this was a plausible story (they never did ask what country and whether he was a rebel or loyalist general, it was not important).
Rubeus was assigned some men and the task of keeping an eye on certain transactions. He was to be the support should something go wrong. This was not a permanent assignment for Rubeus, but only a test of loyalty and ability. Later once he proved himself, he would be given more choice assignments.
The current assignment had him with three assistants keeping an eye on a weapons transfer. Each of his assistants carried a concealed automatic rifle. He himself carried no gun, instead preferring the knife that he kept (plus if things got hairy he had his powers). He still wore the cape; it gave him an intimidating appearance. Others in the organization would go out of their ways to avoid him. But these three, had been with him since he started six days ago and while they might still fear him, they did not visibly show it. Additionally, he had begun to give them some training, making them into far more lethal soldiers than before. They had great aptitude for learning; too bad they had no magical abilities.
Part way through the transaction that he was supposed to be supervising, something tugged at the back of Rubeuss mind and he thought, Something does not seem right. Scanning the scene he came across the problem, a car without it lights on was slowly creeping its way towards them. Must be one of those electric cars, to be so quite. Rubeus thought before motioning to his comrades, they moved to outflank the approaching threat. While they did that, Rubeus began to make his way towards the front of the car, and as he did so he noticed others attempting to stealthy move towards the transfer area. A quick look confirmed that they were police. Only five officers, plus two in that car. Well they should have brought more force.
Having made his assessment and determined the police to be only a minor nuisance, Rubeus moved out to take out the officer whom he was just about to pass. A quick motion and the officer silently fell to the ground, his throat cut. His three assistants who were already lined up for their shots each took out another officer. That left one officer standing and the two in the car. However, the sound of gunfire at the falling of the other three alerted the remaining three.
Freeze this is the police! came a shout from the car, where its two officers, actually make that four in SWAT gear had just poured out. A flick of Rubeuss wrist sent a knife flying at the other on foot officer and took him out of the battle. The group at the car still had not registered his presence. Instead, they were focused on his three assistants, who had given away their positions with a retaliation of gunfire.
Normally a drug bust would not have involved the heavy firepower that the four remaining officers carried. But, ever since the strange happenings with the appearance of the Sailor Senshi, the Tokyo PD had quietly begun to create some heavily equipped units. This new unit had Rubeuss assistants far out classed, and it was obvious to Rubeus that his assistants would soon perish. He initially considered letting them die, but they had shown great promise and he did not want to waste that. So instead, he flung a couple of dark energy globes at the police car. The resulting explosion lit up the night and for all anyone knew, one of the drug runners must have gotten very lucky and had his bullet some set off something explosive in the car.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following day at the Tsukino household
The Tsukino family was watching the television, when the report of the recent gang incident came on screen. As the TV camera panned across the scene, ChibiUsa suddenly tensed up. Instantly noticing the change, Usagi placed an arm around the child ChibiUsa whats wrong? asked a concerned Usagi.
That crater. It looks like one of Rubeuss. Like the ones that were left after he attacked you while you were protecting me from him.
The statement of his daughter being at the receiving end of whatever had caused one of those craters caused Kenji to wonder again, why he had agreed to let his daughter continue to be Sailor Moon. She was not supposed to every have been a Senshi. She should let the other Senshi do their job and protect her. But, he knew that his daughter would never stand for that. And that child was proof that she would survive, wasnt she?
Usagi pulled the child into a hug and tried to reassure her. Dont worry there is nothing to worry about. That crater was caused by a bullet from the gunfight setting off explosives in the car. Anyways I will always be here to protect her, musume.
While ChibiUsa was not convinced about the official report of how the car exploded, she still let herself be comforted by her mothers embrace. So Odango-Atama did you flatten Mamo-chan again? ChibiUsa asked a few minutes later, returning to one of her standard taunts this time in the past. Usagi still had not figured out ChibiUsas use of the familiar with Chiba-san, she figured that she must apparently become friends with that creep in the future. How she did not know, and apparently that child was getting her kicks out of seeing her badmouth Chiba-san. At first Usagi did not care for the taunting, but she quickly realized that whenever ChibiUsa was taunting she was much more at ease with herself. And that it was only during long periods of no taunting in which sorrow would cross ChibiUsas face.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Elsewhere in Tokyo the following day
Shortly after Rubeuss craft re-entered the normal flow of time it broke up. The explosion for the most part turned the craft into shrapnel. However, a core portion of the ship had survived nearly intact, the command center. This fragment had landed in a lake in Tokyo, and carried Rubeus here to earth. His four companions were also in this portion; however, they did not survive the impact and subsequent sinking. The rest of the ship, for the most part, burned up upon reentry into the atmosphere.
However, the cargo of those pieces did not necessarily face destruction during their reentry. Droid crystals are designed to face severe stresses. To these crystals, the strain of reentry and impact was of the order of a strong magical attack. So it was not surprising that some would survive reentry on their own. Sapphire in designing these crystals had also designed them with a safety feature, designed to help in the aid of a surprise attack. Any attempt to destroy a crystal other than a precise dismantling of the stone would activate the crystal. And as such, those few crystals that did survive reentry were activated. However, the strain of the abnormal time trip had drained most of their energy. Consequently, the resulting droids would need to absorb energy.
The Sailor Senshi had already, unknowingly, faced one of these demons. That particular droid had the misfortune of immediately drawing the attention of the Senshi upon activating. The current droid was of a stealth model. Upon activating it decided to gather information before filling its energy reserves. As such, it had determined that an ideal location for an energy drain was a nearby elementary school. It had inserted itself as a new piece of playground equipment, draining a little energy from each child that used it. Its energy reserves were now near full and it decided it was time to move onto default protocol 2: Destroy all targets not of the Black Moon Family.
With a new course of action set, it revealed itself, to the panicked screams of the children and with blast of energy, the droid quickly began trapping the children and draining them of their energy. This particular droid, due to its disguise, looked like a hodgepodge of various pieces of playground equipment and its current attack of choice was a dark energy chain to entrap and then drain its victims energy.
Included amongst the children was a pink haired child, who silently cried Momma, please help me, as she tried to hide. Currently there were still too many conscious people for her to transform, and anyways she knew that she would never be able to take down this demon by herself. Cowering and whimpering behind a wall, she once again wished that her mother was here.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Juuban Junior High
For Usagi, class was following its normal predictable procession. Her teacher was droning on in front while she struggled to keep her eyes open. These past few days she had actually managed to arrive to class in time in the morning. Though, that was as much ChibiUsas help as it was her own doing. ChibiUsa wanted to be walked to school by her mother, which required making sure her mother was up in time. As a result, Usagi was forcibly awoken every morning this week and had made it to class before the final bell. But, if she could not find a way to stay awake soon she would likely garner detention anyways.
Haruna sighed as she noticed Usagis head begin to droop for the umpteenth time this afternoon. I should not be surprised; though, I do have to give her credit for actually making it here on time lately. That new student, Ami seems to have been a good influence on her. Well I probably should wake her up again.
But before Haruna could open her mouth, Usagi suddenly sat straight up with a panicked look on her face. ChibiUsa-chan! she called out, getting the attention of the entire class, and then much to everyones surprise, except possibly Ami, she darted out of the room.
Haruna was not sure what to make of Usagis exclamation, but was concerned about the look of utter panic on the students face. However, before she could even begin considering what she should do about it, a similar, if not quite so severe, look appeared on Amis face, and then to her astonishment Ami ran out of the room. She was not sure what to make of the situation, only that something bad must have happened. With her mind in a daze, she gave her class a reading assignment while she tried to sort out what had just happened. Usagi I might expect something like that of, but for Ami to ran off too. And, she also had that look of utter panic.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outside the school
After nearly becoming hoarse in trying to get Usagis attention, Ami finally had managed to slow her friend down enough to allow her to catch up with the blond. Usagi, what is the matter? I heard you call out ChibiUsas name, and then that look of horror on your face.
Ami-chan, something has happened to her. I can feel her fear. Call the others, Moon Prism Power, Make Up! Usagi cried out before taking to the rooftops as Sailor Moon.
Quick on the uptake, Ami quickly followed suit, before summoning the others. It took a few moments for the other two to respond, they did need to extract themselves from class. Rei was not at all happy about being called away from school on a feeling from Usagi and as such Ami actually ended up shutting down her communicator in the middle of Reis rant about how this had better not be a false alarm.
Arriving at ChibiUsas school, Mercury felt her hope that this might be nothing more than a false alarm vanish as she took in the scene that lay in front of them. There in the middle of the playground was a demon and strewn around it were around a hundred children wrapped up in chains and unconscious. Hearing a sudden shriek and wail from beside her, Mercury turned to find her comrade dashing out in the middle of the mayhem, heading for one of the children, a child that Mercury could now see was ChibiUsa.
When Sailor Moon saw her daughter to be one of the victims, any sense of discipline fled her mind. Her entire being focused on the safety of her daughter, she had blindly run in and was know kneeling on the ground while gently cradling her daughters unconscious body in her arms. Focused as she was on ChibiUsa, she was unaware of how inviting of a target that she made herself. The only thing that saved her from being taken out by the demons dark energy chains was Mercury who upon seeing the attack, without a moments hesitation threw herself into the line of fire to protect her princess.
Hearing the scream of agony, Sailor Moon was jolted back to reality in time to see a battered Sailor Mercury fall to the ground. She moved to help Mercury, but was instead forced to jump out of the way as another attack came. Landing, she wanted to retaliate for what the creature had done to her daughter and her friend, but as long as she held ChibiUsa she could not, and she was not about to put down her unconscious daughter. Consequently, all she could do was to continue to dodge the creatures attacks and hope that it remained focused on her long enough for the others to arrive. Unfortunately, before long the creature got lucky and one of its chains managed to wrap itself around her leg causing her to fall to the ground. Falling, she twisted her body so that she would land on her back, a more jarring landing, but one that would not injure crushing ChibiUsa.
Now caught by the creature, Sailor Moon felt her energy begin be drained; however, before more than a little bit could be taken a rose split the chain that had trapped her and she was free. While she wobbly returned to her feet the masked thrower jumped down and took ChibiUsa out of her arms, while saying, Sailor Moon, I will protect her, you take out that youma.
Hai, replied Sailor Moon as turned to face off against the droid who had just decided to unleash a sand blast in retaliation for Sailor Moons escape. Coughing, the two jumped clear, each to separate areas of the playground. How am I going to defeat this demon? Oh, I hope Mercury is all right, I wish the others were here now.
As if to answer her prayers a call rang out How dare you disrupt this peaceful area of learning
And disrupt our attempts to learn. I am Sailor Mars
And I am Sailor Venus
And we will punish you. Venus and Mars finished together.
Turning to take in its two new opponents, the droid came face to face with both a fireball and a crescent beam. The attacks had been launched at near point blank range, and as such the demon was unable to dodge them. Unfortunately, the attacks barely phased the demon. Instead, it shot out a set of energy chains at both Senshi. Mars and Venus were able to dodge the attack, but only barely as they were in shock over how little damage their attacks had done.
With the droids attention drawn, Sailor Moon attempted to use her Tiara. However, it too failed to make a dent in the droid. At least, though, the droid did scream in pain before unleashing a massive attack barrage that had the Senshi looking for shelter. While this was going on, Mercury regained consciousness and crawled off to the sidelines of the battle. She still did not have enough energy to stand or use any of her magic. Therefore, she instead deployed her visor and began analyze their target. What she saw did not encourage her one bit. The power levels on this creature were substantially higher than the ones that they had fought before, causing her to herself wonder whether or not they had enough power to destroy the creature.
Noticing that the blue Senshi had awoken, but was staying at the sidelines, Tuxedo-kamen decided that he would be able to leave the child with her thereby allowing him to resume watching over Sailor Moon. Landing beside Mercury, he gently placed his cargo down beside her, but as the child left his arms, he felt a surge of energy pass from her into himself. Moving to aid the Senshi, he felt stronger. Curious as what that meant, he with a flick of his wrist sent a dozen roses streaming at the demon. What? I have never been able to summon more than a rose or two without feeling drained before. Could that child I placed down have had something to do with it? he wondered. Unfortunately, in reflecting, took his attention of the battle and as such he was caught off guard by the retaliatory strike by the droid. While he was able to dodge the attack, he had lost the advantageous position he was in moments ago.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back at Juuban Junior High School
Makoto sat watching the clock tick away the time, it had been a little over half an hour since Usagi and Amis sudden departure. For some reason she felt a strong urge to be elsewhere. Where she did not exactly know, only that she needed to get out of here. What is it with me? she wondered. Why do I have this urge to go? in trying to sort out her thoughts she thought back to lunch, when Usagi had befriended her. As she thought more about the new friend that she had made on her first day, she realized that she felt protective of that girl. Why am I feeling like this? Usagi never seemed to question my reputation. But why do I feel like I need to protect her. I cant take it anymore! I have to go find her!
With that thought, she pushed back her chair stood up and walked out of the room. Once in the hall she began to run, where to she did not know, only that she needed to get there fast. Haruna noticed the new student get up and leave the room. Great, another one of my students has wandered off. She knew of Makotos reputation, but for some reason she felt that Makotos departure had something to do with Usagis departure. Guess I will try to find out answers when they return, and decide what to do then.
Makoto, for her part, was now barreling down the sidewalks, letting her instincts guide her. She began to hear sounds of a battle, which only caused her to run faster. Turning the corner, she saw three Sailor Senshi and a caped man fighting some kind of monster. Without even pausing, she continued straight onto the school grounds and towards the monster.
The droid focusing on what it saw as real threats did not pay much attention to the newcomer. This inattention allowed Makoto to get a series of punches in. The next thing the droid knew it was sailing through the air. If the Senshi had not been fighting for the past thirty plus minutes they may have been able to finish it off there and then. But, unfortunately, because of how long they had been fighting, they simply did not have enough energy left to destroy the creature.
Luna and Artemis, who had arrived some time earlier, where watching the fight with Mercury, also noticed the arrival of the newcomer. Artemis do you see what I see? questioned Luna referring to the glowing sigil of Jupiter on Makotos forehead.
Yes, it is the final Senshi, Jupiter, replied Artemis.
Not really waiting for Artemiss answer, Luna darted onto the battlefield. She ran towards the newcomer, who had the sense of mind to be running now from the enraged droids attacks. Jupiter take this wand and call forth your powers, commanded Luna as she did her back flip.
Makoto turned to see who was talking and saw a black cat that appeared to be addressing her, and then a cylinder was flying towards her. Instinctively, she grabbed the device out of the air and as she did so knowledge came up from the recesses of her mind. Jupiter Power, Makeup! she called out. And, with lightning bolts dancing out of the sky and around her body she became the Pretty Suited Soldier: Sailor Jupiter.
Turning, she began to advance on the droid. The droid itself began to back pedal as it attempted to assess this new threat. Unfortunately for it, Jupiter did not give it anytime as she immediately threw lightning at the creature and then followed through with more hand-to-hand combat. When she pulled out a few moments later, the dazed demon was hit by a combined attack from Venus, Mars and Sailor Moon and a floral arrangement and that combined attack finally proved too much for it and it disintegrated into moon dust.
With the monster destroyed, Venus, Mars, and Sailor Moon made their way over to Mercury before, along with Mercury, dropping their transformations and slumping to the ground. Jupiter who was still in relatively good shape moved to join them the others before also reverting back to her civilian self.
ChibiUsa had begun to stir near the end of the battle, and was now fully awake. Seeing Usagi slump to the ground, she cried out, Momma! and quickly moved from the hold that Ami still held on her to Usagi who wrapped her up in a bear hug.
After a few moments of enjoying her mothers embrace, the pink haired child began to take notice of more than just Usagi and in so doing saw Makoto who was standing outside the group looking a little lost. Mako-chan! she called out happy to see her other friend again, having wondered why she hadnt seen the Senshi of Jupiter these past few days. Where have you been? I thought Usagi must have been hogging all your delicious food.
A now thoroughly stunned and confused Makoto moved to take a seat next to the other girls. Who is she? How does she now my name, and why is she being so familiar with me? And why is she calling Usagi momma?
However, her questions were going to need to wait. We had better be getting back to class; we already are going to be in enough trouble as it is for skipping out like this, announced Ami.
Makoto was about to object, but was cut off by Luna. Ami-chan is right; you should get back to school. Though, we had better meet at the shrine later today to discuss this fight and to fill in Sailor Jupiter on what is happening.
Once everyone had given their agreements, a battered Usagi stood holding her daughter and began to move off the field. Ami, supported by Makoto, followed Usagi out, while she had recovered a lot from the blast, she still could not walk nor stand for long periods of time on her own. Minako and Rei also stood and began to move off towards their respective schools. Luna was about to suggest that Usagi leave ChibiUsa here with her classmates (who were just now starting to wake up), but one look at her princesss face killed that thought. There was no way Usagi was going to part with her child after that battle. Very likely Usagi was not going to let that child out of her sight for the rest of the day.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As the trio made their way back to the school, Makotos head was full of confusing thoughts as she attempted to make sense of what had just happened. Normally she would have demanded explanations right then and there, but something stopped her from asking for them. Instead she was helping Ami, at least that was what she thought the blue haired girls name was, walk back to the school. Usagi walked next to the two of them cuddling that pink hair child who had a strong resemblance to her against her chest. Usagi who had finally recovered from her emotional shock enough to talk interrupted her thoughts.
Thanks for your help Makoto-chan. I did not think that we were going to survive that one. After school we will be able to explain everything to you.
It was no problem Usagi-chan. I felt a strange urge to find you after you ran out of class. By the way, who is that child you are carrying, how did she know my name, and why did she refer to you as her mother.
Because she is, and I am from the future Mako-chan, replied the pink haired bundle that had decided to enter the conversation. Though, to others I am her distant cousin.
Makoto was only half surprised to hear this, Kami-sama knows she had experienced enough weird stuff for one day and with that meeting this afternoon she expected it to get worse. So unlike the others when they heard of the relationship she just smiled, continued walking, her only response being So that is why she looks so much like you.
The pace of the trio had slowed upon reaching the front of the school. After a moment to get their nerve, the three stepped through the doors and headed back to the class they had run out on.
Haruna was in the middle of grading some papers, while her students did some assigned reading when the trio entered the room. Kami-sama what happened to them! she thought to herself upon looking up and seeing a battered Ami being helped to her chair by Makoto. Makoto herself did not appear to have any bruises on her. She must have arrived after whatever the other two ran off towards. Looking at the third member, she saw Usagi holding a small child in her arms. The protective grasp that Usagi had on the child and the look of sorrow on her face vanquished any thought of punishing the trio for running out. Instead, she moved to the trio to offer assistance.
Ami-chan, Makoto-chan, Usagi-chan what happened? Here let me take you three to the nurse.
As they were herded out of the room and down the hall, Makoto, the only one with any energy to answer the questions, spoke up. I am not quite sure what happened, when I arrived the Sailor Senshi were battling some monster. Mizuno-san was knocked out on the ground near the child whom Usagi-chan is holding. I believe she is a cousin of Usagi.
As she finished her explanation, they arrived at the nurses office. Ami was immediately taken and laid down on a bed. The nurse after convincing herself that Ami was okay and just needed rest now moved to examine Usagi and the child she held. The child appears to be in good shape, just a little lethargic, but I am worried about her big sister. She looks like she is about to go into shock. Usagi your little sister is going to be fine. You can let her down now.
As Usagi slowly began to truly become aware of her surroundings, she looked at her daughter and finally realized that ChibiUsa was in fine condition, and placed her down on the ground. However, the fact that the child was okay did not really help her. Instead, the fear she had been fighting finally got to her and she collapsed into a ball on the couch she was sitting on. Haruna and the nurse looked worriedly on the distressed student as they tried to calm her. Unfortunately, for them, any attempt to tell her that there was nothing she could have done was unsuccessful. Moreover, it just made her cry even harder, perplexing them.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
A figure had been watching the battle and aftermath from a place where time had no meaning. It took all her will not to interfere as she saw her future queen get taken for a ride by the creature. Thankfully, as she was about to say screw the rules, Jupiter entered the scene. She breathed a sigh of relief, as the creature was defeated. While the Senshi did not know why the creature was so much stronger than the others, she did. Earlier in the day, she had begun tracing down the other travelers who were caught by the blast in the time-stream. Unfortunately, one of them was Rubeus. She had sworn when she had discovered that he had been brought to the past. She had no idea where he was, but it was obvious that his droids had also survived the trip. The Senshi were not ready to battle these creatures.
Currently she was now watching the group in the schools nurses office. She was relieved when the nurse announced that Ami and Small Lady were okay. She had feared that Ami had been seriously hurt when she was unable to stand for more than a few moments on her own. Now she was watching as her future queen curled up into a ball and began to collapse. That does it! My queen needs me! and with that she open the Gate of Spacetime and stepped through.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Feeling a presence, Haruna looked behind her and was startled to find a strange woman standing behind her. I did not here the door open. She thought to herself. The mysterious lady was dressed in a nice business outfit, had long emerald colored hair, held a strange staff that resembled a key in her hand, and had eyes of severe determination that seemed to glow as much as the orb on top of the staff. The newcomer quickly moved towards the distraught student.
I am a family friend. She said, answering the unspoken question. Both the nurse and Haruna sensed that this strange lady might want some privacy and so moved back a bit.
Noticing the change, ChibiUsa looked up. PU! she exclaimed and bounced from her mothers side where she had been trying to cheer up the collapsed Usagi into Plutos arms.
Small Lady. Pluto acknowledged the little childs presence and somehow managed to catch the bundle with the limited warning that she had. Now carrying the concerned child she moved up next to Usagi. My queen, forgive me she quietly asked while kneeling in front of Usagi.
The formal title use had the desired effect. Forgive you for what? At first Usagi did not know who this strange woman in front of her was, but then she noticed the time staff and realized that it was Pluto.
For not being there to protect you and the princess, my queen.
It is not your fault, we should have been better prepared. responded Usagi, not wanting anyone else to feel responsible for her.
This was the answer that Pluto was looking for. Grasping Usagis chin and forcing her to look into her eyes she told Usagi: If it is not my fault, then you cannot be at fault either. Without letting Usagi object, she continued. Remember that we are your guardians. Your and the princesss welfare is our responsibility. We have our powers so that we can protect you. There was nothing you could have done differently to defeat that droid.
Usagi tried her best to find fault with Plutos reasoning, trying to find some way to blame herself. But after a minute, she gave up and instead attempted to put the incident behind her. To the other two in the room, Usagis change was a miracle. One moment she was crying and emotionally collapsed and the next she had regained her composure. All because of whatever that strange women had said to her. Looking more closely Haruna noticed that the strange glow from the orb on top of that peculiar staff had all but vanished.
Standing, Pluto pulled Usagi up as well. ChibiUsa now stood on the floor between the two of them. Her mood was now a cheery one, as her mother was no longer depressed. Usagi let me take you home.
The nurse made a move to interject. But that look of determination on the womens face made her consider otherwise. Well that child seems to know her real well and Usagi does seem to trust her.
Pluto looked towards the nurse and addressed her. I will take Usagi-chan to her house. Juuban Elementary School should be called and informed that a student by the name of Tsukino Usagi was brought here and is now being taken home with her cousin. And, that she is fine after the demon attack on the school. When she mentioned ChibiUsas name, she patted ChibiUsas head to indicate that she was referring to the smaller child and not the older teenager.
Pluto stopped on her way out to check on Makoto and Ami. Ami lay resting on the bed, while Makoto kept an eye on her. Makoto-chan, I am taking Usagi home. I will see you two later at the Hikawa Shrine.
Great, someone else who seems to know everything that is going on Makoto muttered to herself. The nurse cleared Makoto to return to class, and so she returned with Haruna. Ami remained in the nurses office, awaiting the arrival of her mom whom had just been called by the nurse.
For Makoto the rest of the school day passed by in a blur. Afterwards she did not have any recollection of what they went over in class, her notebook remained unwritten in. Instead, she was lost in thought pondering all that had happened that afternoon. Haruna noticed how distracted Makoto was, but decided it best to let her be. She herself, after all was having a hard enough time trying to cope with what had happened. And, she, unlike Makoto, had not seen those mythical Senshi in action.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Juuban Elementary School
Zoisite and Kunzite were examining the battlefield for the third time. Earlier in the day they had decided to locate their next target. However, shortly after arriving they felt strong energy surges nearby, usually the hallmark of a battle with magic. Curious they had decided to locate the source of these energy surges, hoping to possibly use it to aid in their goal.
They were not at all prepared for what they found at this particular location. Gathering information from those who had seen what had occurred had just confused the two Dark Kingdom Generals even more. We should be the only forces operating in this area. But the Senshi obviously battled a demon of some sort. Who sent it and why? wondered Kunzite. To Zoisite he spoke Could this be related to that energy spike Beryl had you investigating before?
I dont know, but I am guessing so. We obviously have another party here. What worries me is the time span those bystanders gave for the battle. This battle apparently lasted nearly an hour and according to at least a couple people the Senshi while victorious took a very severe beating. Unspoken, but evident was the concern that this new party appeared to be far stronger than the Dark Kingdom.
We are going to need to inform Beryl of this development, she is not going to be pleased. But if can find a way to use this new party for our own purposes. Deciding that they had collected enough information the two opened a portal and prepared to make their less than desirable report to Beryl. At least we wont have to inform her of a failure was the only uplifting thought that they could come up with as they stepped into the portal.
End Chapter 5
