Okay! This is my first Mamo-chan and Usako fanfic. (My second in total) I hope to have more stories soon so stay tuned. Legal stuff: Sailor Moon is not mine. (No matter how much I want it, I just can't buy it. Boo-hoo.) K, yadda yadda. You don't need all the other junk. P.S. I've NEVER seen the original Anime (*gasp*). And I'd like to say that I don't mind the dubs. so... DOWN WITH DUB-BASHIG!!! [think 'bout it. If they weren't dubbed, you wouldn''t have so many fans of SM. Though I'd love to see all of the series in the original form.] On with the story. Ooooo! One last ting! Thanx so much ta Shalom-chan she's a reall great person and I'd really like ta thank her for being the first (and only) one to e-mail me *so far* (got that? I hope others will e-mail soon). Check out her story called: Only Time Will Tell. Note:thoughts and things said by characters are both marked by "_" (sorry. But when I cut and paste, the italize gets erased. One of these days I won't be lazy and I'll stop writing e-mail and work on changing it. That and working on my *ahem* 5 other 'fics in process. ::sheepish smile:: Hey! Check out the SM manga volume 2 and 3, they're really neat! Whatever... now get on with the story already!! Rating: 'bout PG "A Love to Last All of Time." Started May 4, 1999. Ended on May 24, 1999. I Flashback (*Tyna is pronounced Tie - Na) Serena hummed happily to herself. Tonight at five o'clock, Darien was taking her out to dinner for her birthday. She smiled at herself in the mirror. She wore a long, sleeveless, white dress. Her hairstyle was still the same even though Serena was now 20. It was the day after her birthday, a Saturday. Her birthday party yesterday had been enjoyable, with just her close friends. A knock was heard on the door downstairs, Serena patted her hair one last time before running down the steps. Of course, Sammy had already gotten the door. He was staring at Darien, who stood there in a nice tux. Serena smiled at him. “Ready to go?” He asked. “Yes, let's go!” She gave Sammy a nervous look, he always seemed to come up with something embarrassing to say. When he didn't say anything, she yelled, “Bye Mom, Dad!” Serena followed Darien outside to his convertible, he opened the door for her and she got in. They were soon driving on the highway. Serena finally asked, “Where are we going?” Darien smiled. “It’s a secret.” He laughed when Serena sighed. She laughed too. Two years before, Queen Beryl of the Negaverse had returned to try and take over the universe [again]. Serena had lost her heart crystal to Beryl, but had defeated her as Neo-Queen Serenity. Some how a miracle happened, Serena had been given back her life even though she had used the full strength of the silver crystal. [*Note- this paragraph ^ above relates to my first fic: Beryl's Last Fight (BLF for short).] Serena smiled as she watched the passing lights and thought, She turned to look around. They had stopped in front of a two-story building. Large balconies circled the building and large glass windows appeared all over. The sign over the door read, Italiano Resturante. Darien smiled, pleased at Serena’s reaction, Darien’s thoughts were interrupted by Serena who had turned around to face him. “Well...?” She asked, “Are we going in? Or are we admiring it from the outside?” Darien got out of the car and walked to the other side. He helped Serena out and turned to lock the doors. (The roof of the convertible was up, Darien knew that Serena would not like her hair mussed-up if they were going into a fancy restaurant.) While Serena was busy looking at the gardens in front of the building, Darien felt in his pocket to make sure his present was in there. He realized that he almost forgot something. Quickly, he unlocked the car and reached beneath the driver's seat. He placed it in another pocket , then he joined Serena. He held out his arm for her, “Would you like to go in?” Serena nodded with a grin. They walked through the glass doors into a large reception hall. At the end of the hall,Serena could see a large ball room. Couples were out on the floor moving gracefully to instrumental music played by a live orchestra. She noticed two stairwells leading down to the dance floor. A waiter came to meet them. Darien told him the reservations and the waiter asked if they would follow him. They walked up one of the stairwells to the second floor. Serena looked around, noting that there was a large crystal chandelier in the middle of the ceiling. On the balcony she spotted tables and chairs set up. Finally the waiter led them to a table for two looking out over the ball room below. Serena and Darien sat down and the waiter handed them menus. He moved on to other guests and left them alone. “I had no idea this place was so huge! It looked big from the outside, but when you come inside, you see all this!” Serena gestured around her. Darien grinned, “I wanted to take you someplace special for your birthday. What would you like to order? I haven’t been here before so don’t ask for suggestions!” Serena grinned and opened up her menu. She looked over all the choices. Her eyes couldn’t take it all in. “There is too much stuff here! How do they expect you to order?” She looked around again and finally decided, “I’m going to get tonight’s special, the pasta dish, and a large salad. What about you?” She asked. Darien closed his menu, “I think I’ll get the same. What would you like to drink? In case you didn't notice, they have practically everything here. Look on the back.” Serena flipped over her menu and arched her eyebrows. The choices were a lot. “Well, did you have anything in mind for after dinner?” She asked. He thought, “It depends...” He said. Serena went back to looking. “Okay, then I’ll probably have the lemon carbonated water.” The waiter came back to their table. Darien ordered for both of them. He requested the lime carbonated water to drink. The waiter took their menus from them and walked off. Serena thought, She turned her gaze to the dancers blow her, she listened to the slow music and imagined herself down there dancing. Darien watched Serena as she looked around. Her face showed her awe. Darien smiled, he had known this was a good place to go, He stopped, pausing to think, He looked over at Serena who was still staring down at the dancers, “Serena,” he called. She look at him, “I got this for you for your birthday.” Darien reached into his pocket and took out a small box wrapped carefully in blue paper. She took the box and set it on the table. Carefully, Serena started to unwrap it. She opened the box to find a small round locket. “It’s pretty!” She exclaimed. She examined it carefully to find her name engraved in it and a small crescent moon above it. Serena looked at the hinges, but noticed that they were welded shut. “Why are they like this?” She asked, pointing to the hinges. Darien smiled, “That is why the locket is so special. Inside is locked a wish. It is a wish that I made that had to deal with you.” Serena opened her mouth, but Darien cut her off, “I can not tell what I wished for! Otherwise, it might not come true! I wouldn’t want that!” Serena wrinkled her nose. She was very curious about what he had wished. She put on the necklace and arranged it nicely. The waiter returned with a cart of their food and drinks. Serena’s face lit up happily as she saw the food. The pasta dish was served on a large plate (one for each order) and the salad came in one bowl, but the waiter passed out two smaller bowls. The waiter asked, “Is there anything else I can get you tonight?” Darien replied “no” and the waiter bowed and left. The dinner conversation was general, mostly on what the other scouts were doing this summer and what new places and movies were opening. At the end of the meal, it was about 6:30. Darien watched Serena’s face as she looked out the balcony windows. He turned away to look for the waiter. Soon he returned and took their plates away. Darien wondered. Serena’s eyes were again lingering on the couples dancing below, He reached into his pocket and pulled out the little velvet box that he had taken from under the driver’s seat. He sighed. “Serena,” she turned to face him. He took another deep breath, “how would you like to go out on the balcony?” “Sounds fine to me!” She answered. Darien got up and placed the small box in his pocket again. Then he pulled Serena’s chair out for her. She got up and they walked to one of the glass doors. The evening breeze was slightly cool, but the air was fairly warm. Darien led Serena to the railing and they looked out across the city. “It’s a nice night out.” Serena murmured. Darien nodded in agreement. “Darien, what do you want? I don’t think you just wanted to take me out here.” She looked up at him and blinked. Darien didn't move. He just bit his lip. kept running through his head. Finally he turned to face her. He took her hands in his and looked into her eyes, “Now Serena- Wait, I have no idea how to put this.” He shook his head. “Yes?” Her voice sounded tentative. “Well, you know how those battles that we fought against Beryl and the DarkMoon family. I, well, kinda wanted to make our destiny to come true.” He stopped to reach into his pocket. Darien pulled out the small jewelry box and opened it, “What I’m trying to ask is: Will you marry me?” He turned the box to her to show a golden ring with a diamond shaped as a rose bud. The steam of the rose was made of emerald. Serena blinked, thoughts rushing through her head, She smiled up at him, “Don’t you know the answer?” Her breath quickened, “Of course! Oui! Si! Yeah! Yes, with all my heart!” She cried. Tears of joy glistened in her eyes. Darien looked less tense. He held Serena close, “I’m so glad. It was so strange to know our future, and then having to wait for it to happen!” He looked down at Serena, she looked up. They just smiled. Soon Serena moved away and Darien gave her the ring. He gave a little wink, “A reminder of your Tuxedo Mask!” She grinned and put the ring on. Music floated outside and Darien saw Serena’s eyes fill with longing, “If you want to dance, then come on!” Serena followed him down the stairs and onto the dance floor. The next song that started was a slower-moving one. Darien and Serena glided across the floor. They continued to dance for about half an hour. Darien had a happy smile on his face the whole time. Finally he stopped and they walked off to the side of the room. “Would you like to go?” Darien asked. Serena looked around one last time. Then she nodded, “Yes, I’m ready to go.” She looked at Darien and so many thoughts filled her mind, Serena took Darien’s arm, which he held out for her, and walked to the counter in the main hall. Darien stopped to pay the bill, and then the two continued out to the car. They got in and Darien paused as he put the keys in the ignition. “Wait a minute, where would you like to go to? It’s 7:15, if you want to know the time.” Serena thought, “Well, I’d kinda just like to talk, so where is someplace quiet to do that?” He gave her a lop-sided grin, “We can go to my apartment, I cleaned it yesterday so I know it’s not cluttered.” She nodded. Darien started the car and they drove to his apartment. Darien switched on the light as they walked in. He took off his tie and jacket of his tuxedo, “Sit down.” He gestured to the couch, “Do you want anything to drink?” Serena walked over to the couch and leaned back, closing her eyes. “Hmm? Oh, no thanks!” She replied. She opened her eyes again to find Darien come to sit down next to her. “You look tired.” He told her. Serena stifled a yawn. “I guess I am.” He sat down and Serena curled up next to him, resting her head on his shoulder. She gave a small snort of laughter. “And the joke is...?” Darien asked. “Oh, I was just wondering what the others will say when they find out what you asked me tonight. And I’m talking about the ‘others’ meaning: the scouts, Luna, Artemis, my parents, and Sammy, etc..” Darien raised and eyebrow. “Okay, so you think that’s funny?” He said in mock offendance. Serena giggled, “Actually, yes! Raye is going to be, well, I don’t know.” She stopped to ponder how Raye would react. Darien just shook his head and grinned, “I have to admit, it will be strange.” He thought about Andrew, They sat quietly, wrapped up in their own thoughts. Finally Serena asked, “Isn’t it strange to you that no evil has come for the past two years, I mean there has always been someone after the Sailor Scouts. But now there isn’t.” “Yeah, I was thinking about that earlier today. I’m worried that some strong force will attack soon. I just have these feelings.” He finished. Serena agreed. “Is Beryl really gone for good?” She whispered. Darien looked down at her. His arm was around her shoulder and he had noticed that when she said Beryl’s name, she trembled slightly. “She is gone forever. That I know.” He answered. “Uh, Darien?” Serena started. “Hmm?” He asked. “I wanted to know, do you-” She broke off as an annoying beeping sounded. Her heart beat fast. She quickly sat up and reached into a hidden pocket on her dress. “What’s-” Darien broke off. He realized that it was the scout communicator. “Serena!” Raye’s voice yelled. Serena rolled her eyes and replied, “Yeah, yeah. What’s up?” To herself she thought, “Raye, you are going to pay big time for this!” “Listen, Amy found something strange in the park. It’s like a spaceship thing. We’re not sure what it is, but I’m getting bad vibes from it. Come on over here now! Okay?” “Actually- oh forget it. Sure I’ll be over.” Serena sighed and closed the communicator and put it away. She turned back to Darien. “Why tonight?!” She made a face, “Sorry about this. I guess I have to go.” She stood up and Darien did too. “You think I’m not going? Come on, we’ll drive there. That’s a lot quicker.” Serena smiled, she had hoped that he’d say something like this. Within five minutes, Darien and Serena arrived at the park. Serena looked down at her dress, “Huh. I’m wearing just the perfect outfit to go outside. A white dress!” She said sarcastically. “Whatever, let's go.” They got out and walked to where they heard voices. They came around a turn in the path to find Lita, Mina, Amy, and Raye standing there looking at two car-sized “space-ships”. One was a Fluorescent blue, while the other was a brilliant purple. “I see you didn't call the outer scouts.” Serena announced. The girls turned. She slightly blushed. “Where in the world were you tonight?” Raye asked, then she greeted Darien, “Oh, hi there!” She turned back to Serena. “Raye, it just so happens you need to know when to call me up, and when not to. Tonight, was not a good night.” Serena walked up to Amy, “Why don’t you change into Mercury and scan the things?” Amy replied, “That’s what I was about to do before you got here.” She added in a whisper to Serena, “I’m sorry about breaking your date with Darien. I remembered it right after Raye contacted you. It must have been hard for you to leave.” Serena muttered, “You don’t know the half of it.” She turned back and noticed Lita talking to Raye quietly. She noticed Raye flush. “Um, sorry Serena.” She said sheepishly. “I forgot.” Serena sighed, “That’s okay.” Meanwhile, Amy had transformed into Mercury and had started to scan the ships. “Wow! This is major weird! It’s almost like these things are from another dimension!” Mercury exclaimed, “I can’t get clear readings on them.” Darien walked towards the space-ships, but kept a two-feet distance between him and the ships. “They are really strange.” He paused, feeling a strange sensation, “I’m getting a really bad feeling about this!” He fell back as two blurs of color dashed up to the sky. “What was that?” Yelled Lita. “Well it wasn’t the ships, they’re still here!” Mina pointed to where the space-ships flickered in the darkening sky. Mercury transformed back into Amy, “I think it was some kind of life form. I only got a quick reading on my computer because those ‘things’ were much too fast!” Serena squinted up at the sky. She felt a dark energy around her. Absently, she fingered the ring Darien had given her earlier. Raye noticed and asked, “Hey! That’s a nice ring. Where’d you get it from?” Serena glanced down at her hand, She glanced over at Darien who was getting up from the ground and brushing himself off. “Well, I , uh, got the ring earlier today.” She finally replied. Raye rolled her eyes, “I figured that. From who? What for?” Darien answered her, “I did, for her birthday.” Serena let out a small sigh of relief. Raye looked at him and wrinkled her nose. Then she shrugged. “Hey! I gotta go. I still want to see the new movie about a model’s life.” Raye announced. They all groaned, “Raye!” Mina cried, “Why do you pick those crazy movies? They are so stupid!” “Don’t be mean!” Raye snapped, “I know they’re crazy. I just want to write reviews on those ‘stupid’ movies. Okay?!” Darien whispered to Serena, “Let’s go. This could get ugly!” “You’re right. When Raye gets started on an argument, she can go on all night!” She whispered back. Serena walked over to Amy, “I’ll see you tomorrow, okay?” Amy nodded, “Sure! And, could you please tell me what happened tonight? You seem, well... different.” “Of course! I’ll tell you when we meet here at twelve o'clock. We’ll talk over lunch. Bye guys!” Serena called. Mina and Raye kept on squabbling as Lita tried to straighten things out. Serena laughed, and Darien just shook his head. They drove back to his apartment and Darien got water for them to drink. “Here you go!” He handed Serena a glass before settling down next to her on the couch. “What were you going to ask me before?” He asked. Serena looked into her glass before answering, “I don’t really know if I want to ask right now.” To change the subject she asked, “Want to ‘see’ what’s on the radio?” Before getting a reply, she got up and walked to the radio. The announcer sounded, “And a special request from... oh, there’s no name here. Okay, anyway it’s to some one named ‘Princess Serenity’. Is this a code name or something? Here’s the song ...” Serena stared at the radio with her mouth open. “What? Who?-” She broke off to listen to the song title. She gasped as she heard, “The song is ‘My Only Love’ .” “Deep in my soul Love so strong It takes control Now we both know Secrets bared, The Feelings show Driven far apart I’ll make a wish On a shooting star. There will come a day, Some where far away, In your arms I’ll stay, My only love Even though you’re gone, Love will still live on The feeling is so strong My only love, my only love...” Serena blinked away tears as she listened. She had only listened to this song once or twice, but somehow she knew that the song meant something special. Whenever she heard it, she would remember the time when Darien was turned into a Nega-warrior. [mmm... wonder why? hee, hee. Oh this is Sailor ClearMoon writing this wacky note.] Serena always remembered that day at the Starlite tower when she had found out that she was the Moon princess, and that Darien was Tuxedo Mask- and Prince Darien. The song ended and the radio went dead. Darien walked over and looked at the radio. “What station was that?” He asked. “Um, I think 100.2.” Serena replied, still stunned. Darien turned the knob on the radio but he still couldn’t find the station, “Weird.” To himself he wondered quietly, He turned back to Serena, her face was calm again. Darien shook his head, “I don’t get it. I can’t find the station at all!” She shrugged, “That’s okay. Darien? Did that song sound familiar? I mean I have heard it before, yet I think I know it from someplace else.” He nodded, “I know. It’s the same thing with me.” He sighed and sat back down on the couch. Serena looked out the window, then snuggled up next to him. She looked at the clock and realized that it was only 8:45, it seemed later. “Serena,” Darien started, “who are we going to tell first about our engagement?” She thought, “Personally, I would like it to be a secret. For a little while. It makes it more, well, mystical.” She added to herself. He had the same thought, “Why not? Next question: let's see, how should I put this? I sorta want to know if you’d like to look for a house sometime. I don’t know why, but to me it sounds strange to ask this question.” Serena knew what he meant. It did make perfect sense to look for a house, but it seemed silly when they already knew what their future was. The only problem, neither of them knew when they would become King Endymion and Neo-Queen Serenity. Finally she replied, “Let’s wait. I admit that it does feel silly to look for a house when, well, we know that we’ll live in the Crystal Palace someday. Don’t you feel weird knowing the future?” Darien nodded his agreement. The two of them sat in silence and listened to the cars passing by on the street below. Darien tensed suddenly and gave a moan. Serena sat up quickly, “What is it?” She asked worriedly. Darien stood up and put a hand on his head, “Something’s wrong, I can feel it. Serena, I think it’s time for Sailor Moon!” She bit her lip. Then she shouted, “Moon Eternal Make Up!” Before Darien appeared Eternal Sailor Moon. He transformed too, Tuxedo Mask stood in his place. “Let’s go!” He said. “But where to?” Sailor Moon asked. She watched as he closed his eyes and tried to focus on the trouble. A frown formed on his forehead and he clenched his jaw. Tuxedo Mask focused harder on the location, but during that time the voice of his future self cautioned, ^Sailor Moon should not go. If you don’t want her to get hurt, leave her here. She mustn’t go! She can’t! Listen to me!-^ The voice disappeared and Tuxedo Mask knew where to find the trouble. In the park. He glanced over at Serena. The last time that King E. had spoken to him about not being with Serena had been in his dreams when Darien had been 18. At that time, King E. sent the dreams to make sure that Serena’s and Darien’s love was strong enough, it had been the only way to win the battle against Wiseman. He shook the warning off, even though a part of him yelled Tuxedo Mask walked to the balcony with Sailor Moon following. “It’s in the park! Let’s go Sailor Moon.” He grabbed her hand and they flew off to the park. (Yeah, I believe Eternal Sailor Moon has flying powers, otherwise I do know that Tuxedo Mask can fly, or rather, something like that.) They landed at the edge of the park and ran through it. Finally they heard yells and shouts through the trees. “Sounds like Mars!” Sailor Moon murmured. Sure enough, they came into a clearing of grass where all of the scouts stood. “Mercury, do you have a scan on those things yet?” Jupiter shouted. “No, they have to be from some totally different dimension!” She answered. The “things” Jupiter was referring to were two human-like creatures floating in the air above the scouts’ heads. One was a light-blue color, and the other was a purplish color. “There’s Sailor Moon!” The blue one yelled. She had black hair that was in one braid that reached her knees. Both “aliens” (as they obviously were), wore a close-fitting metallic armor that covered almost their whole body. The arm coverings ended at the wrists, and their feet were covered in black boots. The neckline went up to the base of the neck, and the purple alien wore a green visor over her eyes, the same color as her hair. The purple one’s hair was a bright green and it was pulled up into a pony-tail. “Sailor Moon?” The purple one laughed, “I’ll introduce my sister and I. She is Rianna and I am Tyna. Say good bye.” Startled, Eternal Sailor Moon just looked up at Tyna and Rianna. “Huh?” She was confused. Before she knew it, Rianna gathered a dark-blue energy and shouted, “Too bad you didn't say good-bye quick enough!” She laughed and let loose the power. All the scouts and Tuxedo Mask yelled, “Serena!” At the very last moment, the eight scouts pooled their powers, creating a clear, crystal shield that surrounded Sailor Moon. But Rianna’s power was too strong and her power cut through, blasting Sailor Moon to the ground. The locket that Darien had given her earlier that evening broke open to reveal a piece of paper. “No!” Screamed Tuxedo Mask. He ran to Sailor Moon, her transformation compact also fell loosely to the ground, causing her to transform back into Serena. “I will come back. Save me by-” Her voice was so quiet. Tuxedo Mask held Serena closely, “I’ll get you back! I know you’re not gone, you can’t be! Serena!” He wept. A tear rolled down his cheek. He reached out and grabbed the broken locket and piece of paper. He crumpled the small paper and threw it. “Some wish.” Tyna and Rianna laughed, though not for long. Sailor Neptune and Uranus doubled up to attack Tyna, who disappeared in a flash of smoke. The inner scouts teamed up to take Rianna, their attack was also a success and Rianna let out at scream as she vanished. With Tyna and Rianna gone, the scouts gathered ‘round to mourn. “What did happen tonight?” Mercury asked softly. “I will not tell. Not unless Serena gets better.” Tuxedo Mask said in a tightened voice, The piece of paper that he had thrown, was opened by the wind. In small hand-writing the wish was written, 'I wish for you to be my true love, for now, and forever. I will always protect you, I promise'. “Serena.” He whispered, “Come back...” Thanks to all of you who read/edit my story. It’s so wonderful to have such great friends and teachers who want to read my writings. My thanks goes to: Sindhu, my best friend and a fellow Moonie, Mrs.. Dugdale, my reading teacher, Mrs. Mueller, my English teacher, and my mom who lets me get on the computer at night. (You know, she sometimes gets mad because she wants to read her e- mail and do her stuff, but she’s a great mom and let's me work on my story from about 8:00-10:00.) Later peoples! --------------------------------------------------------------------- Insert Legal Jazz here: (Look in the 1st and last parts of my story to find full legal junk.) PG II The scouts and Tuxedo Mask transformed to their normal-day appearance. He lifted Serena off the ground, the locket still clutched in his hand. The girls looked over at him. “Where will you take her?” Michiru sniffed. “She will stay at my apartment.” Darien’s voice replied, hollow with guilt and grief. He turned away and started walking. “Wait!” Raye said. He paused and turned. “Shouldn’t she see a doctor? Maybe a doctor could cure her!” He shook his head, “No. They can’t help.” In his mind he added, “Besides, Serena is not breathing, yet she lives. Doctors would say she was...” He couldn’t make himself think that. Again he turned and walked away. The others stayed behind. (end of flashback) I glanced over at the bed where Serena lay. She looked peaceful, with a slight smile on her face. I just stared at her. “My love, if you can hear me, I don’t know what to do. I can’t talk to anyone, it hurts too much to explain what had happened. If only you were okay. Serena, you have faced so many dangers, but they seem to be nothing like this. Soon we were going to start on some wedding plans, remember? I can’t believe that you’re actually 20. Time has seemed to fly by. Yet now it drags on. My love...” Despair filled me as I watched Serena’s unmoving body. I had taken Serena back to my apartment . If we had seen a doctor, the doctor would have said simply that she was... dead. I knew she wasn’t, Serena was just in some sort of deep sleep. It was somewhat like the tale of Sleeping Beauty. Now if only a kiss would wake her. Serena lay on my bed in my apartment. I had been sleeping on the couch for the last week. I stood quietly watching Serena’s face. “If only I had heeded my warning!” I cried aloud, “My love, come back! You promised you would! Please, come back!” I felt as if I was in a large house, but slowly all the doors closed until I was looked in one room. That room was filled with guilt, grief, and despair. I would watch Serena day and night, trying to come up with an idea to get her back. When I had told Luna about what had happened to Serena, she said something about having to erase Serena’s parents’ memories. Luna explained that, “If her parents knew that Serena was harmed, they’d have to have an explanation. They mustn’t know about this, and they shouldn’t remember her, for now. When, and if, Serena recovers, they will remember her.” I had just stared at her and thought, “if” indeed. Luna decided to stay with Mina and Artemis, so that left me alone with Serena. I had been inside my apartment for a whole week, ever since the first week of July when my love was lost. “Serena.” I closed my eyes and headed back into my main room. I lay down and fell quickly asleep. I woke up in a cold sweat. A nightmare had come to me. I dreamed that Serena and I were dancing, but all of the sudden the floor broke apart. Serena floated away calling my name. I ran to follow her, but a hidden wall always stopped me. “What can I do Serena? Why can’t you come back to me. It’s just not fair! Not even in my dreams can we be together.” I sat up and rested my elbows on my knees. With my face in my hands, I cried. Never in my life had I ever remembered crying for anyone. Not even for the loss of my parents, most likely because I did not remember them (and I still don’t remember them). But Serena was different. I had fallen in love with her more than a thousand years ago at the Moon Kingdom. I fell in love with her when I met her again after and during the first fight with Beryl. Now she was gone. I felt as if more than half of my life was taken away. “Please,” I begged, “Serena! I love you, come back. I failed to protect you, but if you come back I will always protect you. Just come back! Wake up!” The phone rang and I dried my tears. “Hello?” My voice was shaking. “Darien? You all right?” Raye asked. “Yeah, what is it?” Raye took a breath, “Well the scouts want to have a meeting, with you. So we wanted to know if we could come to your place since you refuse to leave. Is that all right?” I thought. I did want to meet with the others, so why not? “Sure. When were you thinking the meeting should be held?” She answered, “We hoped that maybe today, like in the afternoon, would work out? The only thing is, some of us may come a little earlier.” “I guess that sounds fine.” I looked at my clock, it was already ten in the morning. “Why don’t you say that everyone should meet here by one o'clock. They should eat before hand. I don’t have that much food to feed everyone.” Raye laughed, “Okay! I’ll let the others know. See ya!” She hung up and I slowly did the same. I closed my eyes, and leaned against the wall, “I wish we could find a way to bring her back...” I opened my eyes and went into my room. I went through my drawers to find a pair of jeans and a black shirt, then went out of that room to change. At lunch I made a sandwich and looked at the morning paper. It was a Saturday so some of the news was old, giving the report on the previous weeks’ news. I finished my lunch and went back into my bedroom. I stared at Serena. Her expression was changed. Her slight smile was a normal, unfeeling line. It showed no expression, no feeling, no emotion. I frowned, wondering what had made her change. I didn't have much time to ponder this because just then I heard a knock on the door. I opened it to find Raye, Amy, Lita, Mina, Luna, and Artemis standing there. I blinked as Luna ran past me into the bedroom. “Hey there!” Lita gave a smile. “Hi.” I answered. “Go on in, she hasn’t changed...” “much.” I added to myself. The girls and Artemis went by me to check on Serena. They soon came out again. “I hope we didn't come too early!” Amy told me, “Raye insisted that we come here about an hour before the actual meeting.” “No it’s fine.” I assured her. “Sit down, I know there’s not much room, but we’ll make due.” Mina gave a small smile, “So nothing has changed?” I shook my head, “At all?” “No. Serena has been the same the whole time.” I answered. They hung their heads, “I’m really beginning to worry.” Luna said. “You weren’t before?” I asked her flatly. “To tell you the truth,” Luna started, “I really wasn’t. You see, she has been through so many things that I think that she should be able to live through this.” “She will!” I shouted. The four girls who had been sitting jumped. “Sorry.” I muttered. I stayed standing. Soon another knock came on the door. This time it was Michiru, Haruka, Setsuna, and Hotaru. “Any-” Setsuna started. “Changes?” I finished for her, “No.” Michiru bit her lip. “If you can find a spot, sit down.” I said. Setsuna, Hotaru, Haruka, and I ended up sitting on the floor. “What can we do?” Mina asked. The girls looked at one another. I just looked at the floor, knowing that the one who could tell us was not in this time. That gave me an idea. “Would it work? I know that King Endymion knows how to save Serena. Otherwise it would be Serena herself who would know. But how can I contact King E.? Could Setsuna help? She is the Sailor Scout of time.” I looked over at her. “Setsuna?” My voice was hesitant. “Yes?” She replied. “Could you, contact someone from the future?” The room was silent. Setsuna stared at me. I gave her a questioning look. Finally she answered, “No. I am not allowed to do something like that yet. I tried once out of curiosity to see if I could see into the future, but then I had a headache for days and a weird voice kept yelling at me.” I put my head in hands, “The future... but how can I contact someone?” I sighed. Amy asked, “Any other ideas?” Luna looked around. No one showed any signs of an idea. I thought about the last night that I had been with Serena. I remembered my warning from King E. Why hadn’t I listened? Now Serena paid for my mistake by being stuck in some strange “sleep”. We sat there quietly, most of the girls fidgeted and looked at the ceiling or floor. Still no one had an idea. It was Lita, who was looking up at the ceiling, that first noticed the little pink cloud floating above us. “Hey!” She shouted. I looked up, when had been the last time I’d seen something like this? A pre-teen girl with pink hair landed on the ground with a “thunk”. By her, Luna P. floated. I gasped with the others, “Rini?” I asked, too astounded to say more. The girl got up and brushed herself off, “I do hate time travel! Hey everyone!” She smiled. Rini wore a white T-shirt and a sky-blue skirt. We all just stared, stunned. I did not speak. I could feel my heart beating faster, I was happy that Rini was here again, but with Serena gone... Raye greeted, “Rini! Wow we did not expect you! But Darien was just talking about trying to contact someone in the future!” Hotaru ran up to Rini, “Hi Rini! What reason did you come to the past this time?” Rini had a funny puzzled expression on her face, “To tell you the truth, I have absolutely no clue why I’m here. Just all of the sudden, Sailor P came to me and said I had to go back and help my friends. But I wasn’t able to hear anything else, I think she was trying to give instructions.” I sighed, “I knew it was too good to be true.” I muttered. Rini turned to me, “What’s wrong? I mean you’re all so quiet. And Darien, where’s Mo-, uh Serena?” I noticed that she caught herself before calling Serena “mom” or something like that. My eyes stung, “Come here Rini.” She came over solemnly, she knew something was wrong. She sat in front of me and I looked straight at her, “Serena was attacked by two aliens named Tyna and Rianna. She is in some sort of deep sleep. Yet she doesn’t breath, and is still alive.” Rini’s eyes filled with tears, “No!” She shook her head, “I don’t believe it! No!” I stood up and motioned for her to follow me. The others were silent. We walked into my bedroom where Serena lay on the bed, her hands resting at her sides. “Mom-ma?” Rini whispered. She ran over. I turned away. I knew I wasn’t able to watch. “Serena. I pray that you will come back to us! We all want to see you again, and now Rini is here. She is so much older, probably about twelve. Come back to see us, come back to your friends.” My eyes blurred and I wiped away tears. I looked over at Rini who was kneeling next to the bed crying. I walked out of the room to let her be. The girls and cats had been talking quietly. They stopped as I walked in. I glanced around, wondering what they had been talking about. Michiru looked at her watch, “Oh no! I have a violin lesson! Sorry, have to go. I’ll be back later, okay?” She asked me. “That’s fine, just let me know when you’ll be coming.” She nodded and left. Haruka got up after her slowly. “I better go, it seems like you’d like to have some time with Rini.” she gave a crooked smile. Hotaru walked after her. She stopped at the door to look one last time at my bedroom door with a worried frown. Setsuna got up, “I don’t exactly want to leave, but-” I cut her off, “Then stay, I don’t mind. Rini will probably be in there for a while.” I could hear her sniffles coming through the doorway. I walked out onto the balcony and placed my hands in my pockets. From the right one, I took out the locket that I had given Serena for her birthday. It was still broken. I remembered my wish, and promise. I had not kept my promise. “I’m so sorry! I did not keep my promise, but I will help you find your way home.” I whispered, “No matter what, Serena, you will always be my only true love. Forever.” Behind me I heard footsteps, I looked over my shoulder to see Amy. “Darien,” she said quietly, “we wanted to have a word with you. Or rather, Luna does.” I nodded and went back inside. Luna sat on a chair and looked up at me with somewhat sad eyes. “Darien,” she began, “I realize that this is incredibly hard for you. It is for all of us. I want you to keep Rini here, I don’t think we’d actually be able to get her away.” I nodded, I had already planned on that. Luna continued, “You have to realize that the ‘sleep’ spell that Serena is under, won’t last forever. There is a chance that Serena might die.” Her voice was quiet, so that Rini would not hear. I blew up at her, “What is the matter with you?! She is not going to die! I know that for sure.” I didn't, but it felt good to say, “She is not going to... die. She can’t.” I whispered, my eyes were stinging again. In an even softer voice I said, “She can’t. We finally agreed to get married. She can’t leave me.” To most of the group, this was a shock (for some reason). But to Amy and Raye, it was no surprise. Amy came over and grabbed my hand, “I had thought that was what had happened the night after Serena’s birthday. Her rose-ring is an engagement ring?” I nodded, “Yes.” I slipped from her hold and went to the couch. I sat down in the open spot and laid my head back. “Why?” I cried. After a while, the girls and cats left one-by-one. Amy was the last one left. “Darien.” I looked up at her, she stood next to me, “I want you to know that you must try to keep Rini’s sprits up, and your own. If you need help any time, call me.” I knew that Amy was going to say something else, but for some reason she didn't want to. “Thanks.” I told her. Amy left, leaving me with my thoughts and Rini. “Rini.” I got up and went back into the bedroom. She was asleep on one side of the bed next to Serena. “Don’t worry, Rini. Together we’ll get her back.” I turned away and walked out, turning off the lights as I did. I woke up the next morning to find Rini out on the balcony. How I could sleep so late was beyond me. “Hi Rini!” I called she turned around and gave me a smile. I sat up and stretched. She came inside and closed the glass doors. She sat next to me on the couch and said nothing. Finally I asked, “What do you want to do today? We can go anywhere you want.” I didn't want to leave Serena, but I also didn't want Rini to be sad all day, coped up in the apartment with the reminder of Serena. “I don’t know.” Rini sighed. I could tell that she was hiding her feelings. I wrapped my arm around her. “Hey, it’s okay! It’s not any one’s fault.” I added to myself, “Except my own.” Rini gave a crooked grin, “I guess you’re right. I only wish I could help.” She looked down at her hands. “Maybe we could...” She cut off, thinking. I thought too. There was nothing I could think of to do. I remembered Amy’s offer, “Rini,” she turned to look at me, “why don’t we go find out what Amy’s doing today? Maybe she has an idea.” She smiled at this, “Sure! Sounds cool!” (As it turned out, Rini was actually twelve.) I called up Amy, “Hello?” She answered. “Yeah, hi Amy, it’s Darien, Rini and I are looking for something to do today and we wanted to know if you had any suggestions, and if you would like to join us.” I let out a sigh. I could faintly hear laughter on the other end, when Amy was under control she replied, “Okay, that sounds great. How about you two meet me at and park in half-an-hour.” “Great! See you then! Bye Amy.” “Bye!” She hung up. I turned to Rini and gave her the “thumbs up”, she grinned. Soon we were in the park waiting for Amy. She came running up in a blue shirt and white skirt, “Hey you guys!” She greeted. “Hi Amy!” Rini replied. I gave her a smile. “Okay. So you said that you two have no idea what to do today?” Asked Amy. We shook our heads. Amy pursed her lips in thought, “The truth is, I’m not sure either. But there has to be something we can do!” We all thought. I watched as people walked by on the paths. “Uh, I think I got something.” Announced Amy. “Yes?” I asked. “It’s just an idea but, we could go to the museum. I hear that there’s a new ‘secret’ exhibit.” Rini smiled, “Sounds fun! Let’s go!” I shrugged, “Why not?” We headed off to the museum and spent the day there. The “secret” exhibit turned out to be on the moon. We left that area almost immediately. It reminded us too much about Serena. Soon it was around five o'clock. “I’m starving!” Rini announced. “I agree!” Amy stated. I thought a moment, wincing at the thought of eating more museum food, “Uh, how ‘bout we go someplace else to eat.” I suggested. “Fine with me! Why not try the new pizza place?” Asked Amy. The pizza was great! After we ate, Amy left Rini and I saying that she had to go do some research. She didn't tell us on what. I turned to Rini, sad that I had to take her back where we would be reminded that Serena was gone. I sighed, “Rini, you ready to go?” I saw her mouth tighten slightly, then she nodded. “Let’s go.” She whispered. I felt absolutely awful! I mean, Rini came back to the past not knowing what she was supposed to do, but I knew that she had expected to see all her friends. Including her future mother. Serena was gone and I could tell that it was hard on Rini. I just wished that somehow I could bring her back. We went into my apartment quietly. Rini ran to the bedroom, and I followed. Nothing. Serena just laid there, not moving, no expression on her face. The room felt empty, so did my heart. Rini went over to the bed and knelt beside it. I heard her murmur, “Someone help me. Tell me what I must do to save my mommy. She’s still here! It is not her time to go yet! Someone please help!” She begged. She felt the same as I did. Helpless, yet knowing that we could help. We knew that we were ignorant on how to save Serena and that made it worse. I closed my eyes. I didn't want to cry in front of Rini. In my mind’s eye, I saw Serena. She was searching, calling out for everyone. Then she sat down in despair. “Darien...” I heard her. My eyes opened and I looked to Serena. She had not changed. “What in the world was that?” I wondered, “Was she trying to contact me? Oh Serena!” I focused my attention on Rini again. She was shaking, which meant she was crying. “Poor Rini.” I walked over to her and placed my hand on her shoulder, “Rini, come.” “No. I don’t want to.” Her voice was high, it was clear that she was hiding back tears. “Rini.” I commanded. Actually I didn't want to leave, but my inner voice told me that she shouldn’t stay here. I knew that she shouldn’t. “Darien...” She whined. “Come!” I told her. Reluctantly she got up. At the door she turned around and looked in. I followed after her and closed the door. I sighed, “Now to find you a place to sleep.” I looked at the couch and winced. I didn't exactly want to sleep on the floor, but it looked like the only way. “You’ll have to couch tonight.” I said. “But Darien,” Rini gave me a quizzical look, “are you going to sleep on the floor?” I nodded. She shook her head, “Whatever.” She muttered. I turned around to go back in the bedroom. In the closet were some extra sheets and blankets. I pulled out my winter comforter and laid it out on the ground behind the couch. I found an extra pillow and put it on my make-shift bed. I also added a thin blanket, since the summer nights were sometimes cold, but usually warm. Rini was sitting on the couch and staring at the floor. “Uh, Rini.” I startled her. “Is there anything you’d like to do, or talk about?” She looked at me, “No.” She replied. I thought, I knew I had to somehow take Rini’s mind off Serena. But how? I glanced at the TV. I wasn’t sure if anything was on. Sometimes on Sunday nights there were movies on. I reached for the TV guide as Rini looked out the window. “Nothing’s on.” I thought. Aloud I asked, “Would you like to listen to some music?” I asked. Rini shrugged, “Fine.” I turned the radio on. It buzzed for a few moments, then it went clear. “Welcome all you who just joined us! We are here on 100 fm, the cooolest station around!” As the man went on to give a news report I blinked. “Is this 100.2? That was the ‘ghost’ station that Serena and I listened to.” The man continued, “That’s all for the news! Now on with the next song.” A lovely tune started up as I looked to find what station it was. Sure enough, it was 100.2. “I remember the time, when we were together. It was the best time of my life, Now you’re gone, my love, It is not fair, my love, for You were the one who always would love me, You’d cheer me up, Now I want you to return to me, Because I need you here! Don’t go away! Don’t leave me here, I want to hold you my dear! Oh.... I need you here beside me Without you, I’m nothing I have no reason to live, Without you. My love, My dear, There is nothing to fear, Just say you’ll be here And I’ll always be there for you too.” The song ended. I pondered how this station could always have songs playing that reflected on how I felt. It was so strange. “That was Millisa’s new song called ‘Without You Here’. Great, wasn’t it?” The man broke off before continuing, “Okay, here we go! If you have anything you want to ask, or anything you want to say over the air, or wish to request a song, call now at this number...” I rushed to find a pen and a piece of paper. I noticed Rini watching me out of the corner of my eye. I picked up the phone and dialed the number. As I suspected, there was no wait. “Hello?” The announcer's voice sounded over the telephone and the radio. “Yeah, uh, hello.” I replied. I waited for the man to continue, he did, “Am I right by calling you Darien?” My eyes went wide, “What?” I asked, “How do you know my name?” “I just do.” Was the response. “What would you like me to do for you?” I didn't trust this guy, it was too weird. “Forget it.” I said while hanging up. The announcer's voice came again over only the radio, “Well, I guess dear ol’ Darien doesn’t want to ask his question badly enough. Anyway, let's get on with the music. Our next song is-” I turned the radio off. “What was that about?” Rini asked with huge eyes. “I have no idea.” I replied. That guy was scary! The radio station was even worse! It left me with things to think about, I went out on the balcony and looked below me. I just thought. I must have been out there for a long time, for when I was aware of my surroundings, I realized that it was dark. I turned to go in and found Rini fast asleep on the couch. I closed the balcony doors and walked over to her. I pulled the blanket up around her, and gave her a kiss on the forehead. “Good night.” I whispered. She shifted in her sleep and gave a sigh. I walked away to turn off the lights. Then I went into my bedroom. The room should have been dark. The lights were off and the windows were closed, yet there was light. I noticed it floating around and above Serena. “What?” I gasped. The light reached out, mesmerizing me. “Darien.” A haunting voice called, “Come to me, save me.” I shook myself out of it. What was going on? Serena did not change, but that haunting voice had been hers. I closed my eyes, my ears, my mind, and all my senses to the things surrounding me. And my mind ‘listened’ for Serena. I called her with my mind. Finally, she came. It was Serena, she was sitting on the floor within a mist. “Serena!” I cried, happy to see her. She turned and let out a joyful laugh. “Darien!” She got up and ran towards me. “Ugh!” She yelled as something stopped her from getting any closer to me. I tried to walk to her, but the same wall blocked me off. Then, as if realizing something, Serena shouted, “Darien, only you can help me. I think. Oh, if only Rini were back in our time!” “She is!” I said. Serena looked up, “Really?” I nodded, “Then you do have a chance. As I was hit I heard someone tell me that only the love that Rini and you had for me could help me.” “How?” I asked as fog settled in, soon I could barely see her. “I don’t know! Good bye Darien, my love! I’ll return-” Her voice drifted away and the fog encased me. My eyes opened. I was laying on the floor of my bedroom. I sat up and groaned. My head felt as if a hundred bees were flying around it. I looked to the bed. The light that had radiated from Serena was now gone. But this time on her face she wore a small smile. Okay, let me know what you guys think. E-mail me at: whyfam@execpc.com --------------------------------------------------------------------- Remember to e-mail me! whyfam@execpc.com Okay, the plot thickens... (maybe. ^.~) Legal stuff here: SM not mine. III I moved over to the bed and looked closer at Serena, “You said that the love Rini and I have for you, will save you?” I looked at her, “But how?” I asked. I went into the main room and checked on Rini, she was still asleep so I decided to follow suit. My head ached from the short contact that I had with Serena. I laid down, and immediately I was lost in a tangle of dreams. The air around me was misty, but when I looked down at the floor, I saw complicated tile patterns. As I looked up again, I noticed that the fog was clearing. I was in a small room with one door. On the walls, large murals were painted. In those pictures I saw a painting of all the planets. Next to each planet was a girl, and I realized, as I looked closer, that they were the Sailor Scouts! A shadowy figure stood next to the sun, it made me wonder, “Is there a Sailor Sun?” More shadowy figures were spread throughout the paintings. I noticed myself next to Earth, I was painted staring at the moon. As I looked to the moon, I saw Sailor ChibiMoon (Rini) but only and outline of Sailor Moon. I touched the outline, it glowed at my touch and before I could do anything, I ended up in the middle of some strange ruins. “What is this place?” I asked aloud. A voice that sounded slightly familiar replied, “Why Darien, it’s the Moon Kingdom. Serena’s real home.” I turned to look at the gleaming spirit (or so it seemed to be) of a women who looked almost exactly like Serena. About the only thing different was the hair color. The woman’s hair color was a light purple. She looked familiar, yet I couldn’t quite remember her, “Who are you?” The woman smiled, “I knew that you probably wouldn’t recall me. I am Queen Serenity, Serena’s mother. I remember the day when the inner Sailor Scouts found their way back to the Moon Kingdom, that was many years ago.” I had to ask the burning question inside of me, “Please!” I begged, “Do you know how to save Serena from the sleep spell that she is under?” I realized that she might not know about what had happened to Serena, so I explained, “It started about a week ago...” Queen Serenity frowned, “There is a way, but it is risky. You must use the silver crystal by-” Fog enclosed me again. Making me deaf to the words of Serenity. As I started to wake, I yelled, “No! I must know how to save her!” I opened my eyes to stare up into Rini’s anxious eyes, “Darien, what happened? You were yelling!” I rubbed my eyes and sat up. “It was a dream. Queen Serenity was telling me how to save Serena, but-” I broke off, “I woke up while she was telling me. Now I do not know where to start.” Rini sat beside me, “It’s okay Darien. We can get her back, don’t worry.” We got up. Rini followed me into the bedroom. Serena still lay there, unmoving. My mind was empty except for the fact that I knew that I had failed to find out how to save my love. “It’s not fair!” I whispered, “Why Serena? Why can’t anyone tell us outright how to save her!?” Tears flowed down my cheeks, “Luna said that it is possible that you could die. Please don’t Serena! I love you, I promise you that when you get back I’ll always protect you. I will not fail you like I did in the battle with Rianna and Tyna.” I heard Rini close the door, I turned to find that she had walked out of the room. She must have known that I wanted to be alone. I walked over to Serena and sat on the bed, watching her face. Nothing. No breathing, no change in expression, no life. She just lay there looking peaceful, yet alone. Most of my feelings were locked inside me, I didn't want to let people know how I really felt. The feelings I locked inside were anger, fear, remorse, love, guilt, loneliness, and so much more. I did let some of my feelings slip, but only slightly. I felt great anger towards Rianna and her sister, but I also felt confusion. I still did not understand, why had they tried to attack mostly Sailor Moon? Who were they? And were there more? I knew that I must figure the questions out, but I’d have to wait. As nice as it was to have Rini back, I felt that I had to wear a mask every time of day so that she couldn’t figure out my true feelings. I sighed and got up. I walked out of the room, surprised to find two plates set out for breakfast. “Darien, come sit down. I have bagels already made, hope that’s what you wanted.” I nodded and Rini continued, “I also have orange juice poured up.” She placed the juice on either side of the plates, then she placed a bagel on each. Together we enjoyed our breakfast. I was wondering what we should do that day when the telephone rang. “I’ll get it!” Rini offered as she ran to the phone. She picked it up. “Hello?” “Oh hi Hotaru!” She paused, waiting for Hotaru to speak. She looked to me, “Darien?” “What?” I asked. “Can I go with Hotaru to the mall today? Setsuna is dropping her off.” “Yes!” I thought, happy that I’d have a day to myself. “Sure!” I know that I had a lot of days to myself, but it’s just that I’m the kind of person who likes to be alone. And right now, I had so many things to think about. My thoughts were broken as Rini hung up the phone and said, “Okay Darien. Here’s what’s going on. Setsuna will pick me up and then stay with Hotaru and I as we shop. She is not sure when I’ll be home, but we’ll call you when we have an idea. There is only one problem, and I do hate to ask you this but anyway, I don’t have any money.” She blinked at me. A slight smile crept on my face, “Okay then. I can lend you twenty dollars. No more.” I went to get my wallet from the dresser in the bedroom and walked back out, handing Rini the money. Within a half hour, Setsuna and Hotaru appeared at my door. “Hello Darien. Any changes?” Setsuna asked. “Come in.” I said, “If I’m to explain the ‘changes’ then I’d better tell you the story...” I explained to Rini, Hotaru, and Setsuna about my strange dream, and even weirder contact with Serena. Setsuna did not show any feeling, she simply replied, “I’ll tell the others. Thanks for letting Rini come with us.” With that, the small group of three filed out my door. Rini turned around to wave good bye and then close the door. My apartment was now empty, and I remembered the first day that I taken Serena here. I recalled the feeling of failure that was hidden from the view of others. None of the scouts knew that I had had a warning before we all fought the battle with Rianna and Tyna. “Who were they? Where were they from? And, why did they attack Sailor Moon?” I murmured. I sighed, knowing that these questions were not to be easily answered. My feet turned me towards the bedroom and I walked in. Serena lay there. Like the time before, nothing. No changes at all. Yet, I had the feeling of foreboding. It scared me because I had no idea where the threat was coming from. “Shake it off Darien! It’s just some silly feeling, nothing serious. Now let's start on my questions. Amy mentioned something on research...” After a time, I planned to go to the library to look up some things. I wasn’t sure where to start or how much information I’d find, but it was worth a try. That afternoon, I was still in the library looking up UFO sightings. Nothing was much of a lead so far, but just as I was about to give up I found what I was looking for. I read the passage in the book, “Two UFOs were claimed to have been seen on June 12, 1998. The woman who saw these UFOs described them as ‘Car-sized ovals that gave off fluorescent light. One ship was pink, the other was a brilliant blue.’ Amazingly enough, the woman claimed to have seen the ‘aliens’ of the space-ships. She describes them, ‘One of them was purple with green hair. The other one was blue with black-hair. They looked like humans, but of course their brilliant skin colors were too unreal and so was their hair colors. They floated above the ground and one said her name was-” You can guess who it was, “Rianna. Both wore...’” The passage went on to explain what the aliens wore, I already knew that information. What amazed me was that Rianna had landed on Earth before. This UFO sighting had been seen in Paris in a small park. I skimmed through some of the reading but stopped as I read, “- The woman says that the purple alien (Rianna) was asking how and where to find someone named ‘Sailor Moon’. If you want to know my opinion, I think this is really crazy. I mean, who’s named Sailor Moon?” I slammed the book closed. “You wanna know who Sailor Moon is?” I snapped at the book, “She is my true love! Now I don’t think you want to get into ‘silly names’.” I stopped, embarrassed. Thank goodness no one was around. “I can’t believe I was talking to a book.” I put the book back on the shelf. I was reaching for another book when my head started to ache so badly that I knelt on the floor. “What?” I closed my eyes and saw a flash of Serena looking scared. “Serena!” I whispered. I ran from the library to my apartment. I knew all along that I shouldn’t have left her. When I reached my apartment, I opened the door to find the main room a mess. Noises came from the bedroom and I rushed in. In my room I found another creature like Tyna and Rianna. This alien was yellow with red hair. She was tearing apart my room as if looking for something. She turned as I walked in, “Oh!” She hissed in a crackling voice, “Forget it, maybe I didn't find what I was looking for, but at least I got the girl. Good bye Darien!” She laughed wildly as I ran towards her. The creature encased Serena in a glowing light and they flew past me. “No!” I screamed, “NO!” I ran after them and grabbed hold of the creature's leg, she hit me and I stumbled back. They continued out the open doors of the balcony and flew so quickly that all I could see was a blur of color. “NO!” I cried as I ran outside, “No.” I sat down and watched the sky. Now all of my hope was gone. Completely gone. I sat on the balcony for quite some time, my checks stained with tears. My eyes were dry, and my checks sticky from the tears when I heard a knock on my door. I turned around to face Setsuna, Hotaru, and Rini walk cautiously in. I realized then that I had not closed the door when I had rushed in. “Again it is my fault. I did not protect Serena, again.” “Darien,” Setsuna and the two younger girls came towards me, “what happened?” Rini asked. My expression did not change. They had every right to know exactly what had happened, but that meant letting them know that I had failed to protect Serena. I wasn’t sure what they thought. My whole apartment was literally ripped to pieces, and the truth was, I really had no clue about what had went on here. Rini was watching me, I saw her face change as she ran quickly from the balcony. As I had guessed, she ran into the bedroom. We heard a cry, “No! Mommy!” Rini ran out, “Where is she? Where?” She shouted to me. “I don’t know!” I responded, “And if I did, I wouldn’t be here. I don’t know what happened, I was-” I shook my head to clear my anger and fear, “gone.” “You must know something.” Setsuna said softly. Even her normally soft and calm face had a tint of anger, and fear. I nodded sadly, “It was one of those alien creatures...” I told them exactly what had happened. Hotaru let Rini cry on her shoulder as she fully realized that Serena could not be found, yet. I felt so bad, so angry at myself for not protecting the one that I loved. Rini was now here crying over Serena because I failed to protect Serena. I stood up, “What can I do?” I heard my voice betray the guilt that I felt, but I believe they took it as fear or sadness. “We must get the scouts and find someone to clean up this place.” Setsuna said sensibly, “I think we could tell the police that you came home to find your place totally destroyed, I mean it’s almost the truth.” I had to agree. My telephone was still intact so Setsuna called the police. It was around nine o'clock at night before any of the four of us could leave. The police asked us many questions, not many could we answer. As the four of us, Setsuna, Hotaru, Rini, and I, stood outside my apartment building, Hotaru used her scout communicator to contact the other scouts. She simply said, “We need to have a meeting. Now! Let’s meet in the park as soon as you can. Wait by the fountain.” We rode in Setsuna’s car to the park and waited for the others. It didn't take long for the other outer scouts and inner scouts, along with Luna and Artemis, to get there. “What’s going on?” Raye asked. She was wearing a knee-length, red dress with a white sweater over it. My patience had been low during the time that Serena had been gone, and now anger flared up in me as Raye complained, “This had better be important!” I almost made the mistake of offering a smart remark, but I remembered when Serena and I had been on a date just about ten days ago. “Where in the world were you tonight?” Raye asked, then she greeted me, “Oh, hi there!” She turned back to Serena. “Raye, it just so happens you need to know when to call me up, and when not to. Tonight, was not a good night.” Serena walked up to Amy, “Why don’t you change into Mercury and scan the things?” I stopped from making the remark and instead, worked on trying to mask my sorrow and pain that I felt during this situation. I realized that Setsuna was relying all that I had told her to the other scouts. “Now we are not sure where Serena is. She could be anywhere.” Setsuna finished. We all stood in solemn silence. The only noise was from the cars on the streets and the breeze. I watched the disturbed looks on the scouts’ faces. I noticed that many of them were watching Rini. They knew, as did I, that we would have to figure out where Rini should go. And on a related note, where would I go? Lita finally spoke, “Rini can stay with me in my apartment.” We looked from one to another. Amy answered, “That’s a good idea. Uh, Darien?” She asked. “I’ve already decided where to go.” I replied, Amy watched me curiously, “I’ll see if Andrew will let me stay at his place. He’ll understand, he’s my best friend.” I noticed a few surprised looks. I found that strange, Andrew was my best friend and he always listened and was helpful. I could probably come up with a simple excuse to need a place to stay. Mina interrupted my thoughts, “That’s fine. When will we meet up again? Do we wait for more information? Or do we just set a meeting time?” I broke in, “Did Setsuna tell you about my research findings?” “No,” Setsuna responded, “I thought it would be better if you explained.” I told the others about the sighting of two UFOs in 1998. The scouts expressed anger and confusion to this announcement. “I don’t get it!” Michiru exclaimed, “Why were, or should I say are, those aliens looking for Sailor Moon? What did she ever do to them?” We turned to each other for answers, the only one who didn't was Rini. I saw her staring at the ground. She was sitting on the edge of the fountain and dangling her feet above the ground. She said nothing and didn't give any obvious signs of crying, but I could tell that she was or had been recently. I yawned and looked absently at my watch, it was 9:30. I cleared my throat, “If I’m to see if Andrew will let me stay at his place, I’d better be leaving. Are we going to meet tomorrow?” I noticed the scouts exchange glances, as if something else was going on. Finally Luna answered, “I don’t think we’ll need to meet tomorrow. How about you give one of us Andrew's phone number so we can call you to set up the next time for a meeting?” I gave them the number and walked back to my apartment building. I went back only to get my car. I got in and sat for a moment, thinking, “Where is she?! What is actually going on here? Why can’t I ever protect Serena? Sure, maybe I have. But only for little things, when Serena protected me she always would protect me from real harm. I failed again...” I had enough sense to cut off the guilt and get going. I drove to Andrew's apartment building and stepped out. At Andrew's door I hesitated, making sure that I had my “story” clear. I knocked and Andrew's face appeared. “Hi Darien! Long time, no see!” I gave the best fake smile I could. “Hey Andrew! Uh, I kind of need a place to stay right now.” He gave me a quizzical look, “Now what’s this? Come in and tell me about it.” I followed him in, closing the door behind me. Andrew had about the same size apartment I did. There was one bedroom, a kitchen, a main living room, and a bathroom. He also had a balcony that looked out over the city. Outside, I could see the night sky and wondered about where Serena was out there. “Well?” He asked. I sighed, “Okay. You see, I was out today at the library. All of the sudden I got this weird feeling, so I went home wondering what was wrong. When I go there my door was open and the apartment was ripped apart. Literally. At the last minute I saw a flash of color going out my balcony. I have no idea what happened. I was with the police all afternoon, telling them the information I knew. I don’t have a place to stay, so I was wondering-” Andrew interrupted, “No need to ask. Of course you can stay here. You can have the couch.” I smiled, he continued, “You said you’ve been with the police all afternoon? Then you’re probably hungry, you can help yourself.” He motioned to the kitchen. He yawned, “So sorry Darien. Yesterday I had a late night so I’m tired. After I get you a pillow and a blanket, I think I’m going to bed, that okay?” “Sure!” I answered. As Andrew got the blanket and pillow, I went into the kitchen to find what he had to eat. Truth to tell, I was really hungry. In the refrigerator I found some leftover pizza, so I heated it up and had two pieces. During that time I heard Andrew go to bed. I ate quietly, and after I was done eating I went to go sit on the couch. After a while, I reached down and took off my shoes. I stretched, thinking about the look that the scouts had exchanged. What were they hiding? As I wondered about this, I slowly drifted off to sleep- into some nightmares and some memories. I stood in a room of stone. It was dark and silent, then from one corner I saw her. Serena. She was curled up, asleep. I tried to speak to her, but when my mouth opened nothing came out. I tried again and again. Finally I decided to walk towards her, even though I suspected I probably wouldn’t be able to. “What’s going on here?” I asked myself as I stepped forward. I had been right, something held me back from walking towards her. I again tried desperately to shout to her. No sound. In front of me appeared a yellowish light. It materialized to reveal the creature that had taken Serena from my apartment. She frowned, “What are you doing here? Oh well, I guess I just have to get rid of you.” I wondered, what did she mean by ‘what are you doing here?' I fell back as she threw some weird light at me. I sat up and rubbed my head, “Huh? Who exactly are you?” I demanded, “And why are you after Serena?” The yellow girl just laughed, “Who am I? Why I am the stars in each galaxy, I’m the planets of the solar systems, I am what I am, and nothing more. I can be what I want and do what I want. That is all the answers that you will get from me!” She laughed and my surroundings dimmed. When I could see clearly again, I noticed that I was in some kind of creepy cave. I heard a scream that sounded like, “No! Tuxedo Mask!” I ran towards the sound, I was astounded to walk into what seemed to be (most likely) the past. Zoycite stood at one end of the cave and at the other, I saw myself-or rather- Tuxedo Mask and Sailor Moon. He (Tuxedo Mask) was lying on the ground with Sailor Moon kneeling by him, I knew what had happened. He had been hit by a crystal spear that Zoycite had created. I watched as Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Mask exchanged a few words, then he fell limp. As I watched I saw a tear glisten down Sailor Moon's cheek and as the seven rainbow crystal flew to join the tear. They combined to make the silver imperium crystal. It was at that time that I realized that Sailor Jupiter, Venus, Mars, and Mercury had come in and were now trying to find out from Luna and Artemis what was going on. Everyone in the cave, including Zoycite and I, looked to Serena who was now slightly floating. She turned slowly as she transformed into Princess Serenity. That was the time that Luna had finally found the Moon Princess that she had been waiting for. And I, had finally found my true love. I was faintly aware that my surroundings were again changing. This next time I found myself in the middle of the last battle with Wiseman. I saw Small Lady (Rini) and Neo-Queen Serenity using the power of the silver crystals, one from the “present” and one from the future. My next dream was more than a nightmare. It scared me so much that I must have started to yell or something because all of the sudden I felt someone shaking me, “Whoa! Darien, wake up! It’s just a dream!” I woke up to find Andrew shaking me by the shoulders. He stopped when he realized that I was up. I sat up and rubbed my eyes, “Huh?” I moaned. “Phew!” Andrew sat down beside me, “Darien you really had me worried! All of the sudden I hear these wordless shouts so I came out here. That was a real wake-up call for me, it’s around midnight!” I yawned, “Sorry Andrew.” “Well...?” he asked. “ ‘Well’ what?” He gave me the “how-stupid-can-you-be” look. “What in the world was that dream about?!” “Oh!” Now I understood, I guess I was sort of out of it, “Uh, Andrew, I’d really rather not talk about it. But I can tell you that it was about-” I broke off, did I really want to tell him this? But I continued as I saw his curious gaze, “Serena.” I finished. Now that surprised him, “Okay.” He paused, as if thinking about something. “Darien? You still going out with Serena?” I knew that some how Serena would eventually come up in our conversation, but this question hurt deeply. I answered briefly, “Yes.” Andrew kept thinking, “When did you meet her? The way I remember it, you hated her so much, then you turned out to like her, a lot.” “I met her when she was fourteen.” I replied, hoping that I was masking my feelings away so that Andrew couldn’t figure out that something was wrong. “Wow! So you’ve almost been together for six years! That’s a long time.” I didn't respond so Andrew continued, he started to laugh so I turned to find out what he thought funny, “Didn’t Serena and you meet up when she threw her math test back and it hit you in the face?” I nodded, half-smiling. He continued to laugh, “And had gotten a 30 on her test? She must have been embarrassed for a total stranger to find out how lousy she did on her math test.” I was beginning to think that this was turning into more than just a small conversation on Serena. I was right. The next question that Andrew asked startled me, “Darien, where is Serena? I know that she has been gone for almost a week and a half now.” “How’d you know that?” I realized immediately after I said it that I had lost all chances of coming up with a simple story to make Andrew quit worrying. “I kinda figured it out.” He answered, “I saw Serena on her birthday, but that was the last time that I’ve seen her. Raye, Lita, and Amy came to the arcade the other day with Hotaru and I overheard them chatting about not knowing what to do with Serena gone for the past week. The last thing that tuned me in that Serena is still gone is that you are not yourself. You never seem to be quite right when Serena is in trouble, gone on a trip, or when she’s simply not seen you lately. So where is she?” I looked at Andrew, “I do not know.” It was the total truth and it was the simplest thing to say. He looked back at me, “I just don’t know okay?! I mean, sure it’s fine that she’s gone, I’m sure that she’s fine!” I said sarcastically. He stood up, “All right Darien! You don’t need to go cranky on me!” “Sorry Andrew. I have no idea where she is. No one does and I do know that she’s in trouble. I know more, but I can’t tell you. I’m truly sorry.” “Hey,” he came back over, “it’s okay. I’m sure Serena will figure out a way to return. Maybe- wait that doesn’t work. So no one knows where she is?” I nodded. “That’s really strange. [yawn] I’d better go back to bed. You get some sleep too, tomorrow maybe we can start a search for Serena.” He flashed a smile at me. I gave a weak grin back. “Thanks.” I whispered. “Anytime.” He answered as he walked back to the bedroom. I sat there and thought for a time before going to sleep again. This time when I got some rest, I slept quietly with no dreams. My mind was empty of almost everything except a picture of Serena sitting in mist, looking to the sky at the Moon. AHHHHH! Where's Serena? Where did that nasty creature take her to? (Stay tuned and find out!) I luv mail so send me some comments to: whyfam@execpc.com Remember- I am Sailor ClearMoon, protector of a distant galaxy....yadda, yadda. [Uh, sorry. Maybe I'm a little bored.] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Okay, are you ready for my personal fav? (I luv this part!) Legal junk is at the end, okay? IV. I woke the next morning to find Andrew already eating breakfast, “Good morning Darien! Did you get some sleep last night?” I stretched, “Yes. And I wasn’t bothered by any more dreams.” Andrew smiled. “Good. Now come and have some breakfast.” We ate and then went out onto the balcony to talk. “So Darien, you say you know more about Serena’s disappearance? Why can’t you tell me?” I looked away from him, “Andrew, I wish I could. It’s just that-” I stopped, shaking my head, “Well you see, I could tell you some things but it wouldn’t make any sense because I can’t tell you how I got my information or how I have any thing to do with this. Does that make any sense?” I turned back to see confusion on Andrew's face. “Uh, no it doesn’t. I kinda get part of it. But couldn’t you just tell me what you know and I promise that I won’t ask questions?” He pleaded. He really wanted to help! I sighed, could I tell him? “I’ll let you know bits and pieces at a time. The first thing I’ll tell you is that I know vaguely who kidnapped Serena. And what has happened to her.” “What?” Andrew stammered. “You won’t believe it, but you can not ask questions! Remember that. Okay, an alien took Serena away yesterday afternoon. And... I’m not yet ready to tell you about what had happened before.” I broke off, feeling my tears build up again. “That’s strange.” Andrew's face revealed that he had many questions running through his mind. “But Darien, I promise to help. Where can we start?” I looked into his anxious eyes. I wished that he could help me, I wished with all my heart that I could find Serena. I had known the whole time that Luna was right, that Serena might die. Now I couldn’t check on her every day to see if she was changing. I wanted to find her. I wanted her to be here forever. I wished for her by my side right now, but I knew it couldn’t be true. “Andrew, I must go alone to find her. You can stay here and help by waiting for calls from Raye, Lita, Amy, Mina, etc. They’re looking too and we’re going to report back to each other if we find anything. Could you do that?” Andrew nodded, “Fine. Though I’d rather be out with you trying to find her.” He muttered. Even though he never really liked Serena, she was still his friend. I left fairly soon after my conversation with Andrew and walked to the park where the space ships had been. Of course they were gone, but it gave me a place to start. I closed my eyes and let my tears roll down my cheeks, the wind blowing them away. I looked up suddenly to see the yellow-alien floating above me. I had no time to protect myself. She must have transported me because when I could see again I was standing in the middle of a stone room. I sucked in my breath. This room was from my dream. “Hello Darien.” Greeted the yellow-creature, “I am called Milista, the only reason I’m telling you is that it seems you humans have to have a name for everything.” I bit my lip. What was to happen? “Get on with it!” I shouted, “What do you want?” Milista smiled and gestured for me to follow her. Against my will, I did. We walked into another stone room, and in one corner there she was. Serena. She was thinner and paler than the last time that I had seen her. She was laying flat on the stone floor. “Serena!” I yelled. I was stopped by Milista who shot out a red-colored power that encircled me, creating an impassable wall. “Oh no, Darien. You’re not getting to her.” I didn't understand exactly why I was here. Why did Milista want me? It seemed that she only wanted Serena. I didn't get it. “What do want with me?” I asked. “Actually, I have no idea. My master ordered that you come here. Said something about you always causing trouble.” She broke off to ponder. While she was distracted I transformed into Tuxedo Mask. I didn't have incredible attacks like the Sailor Scouts, but something inside me said that I could free Serena. I had to try. I forced myself to walk through the red-colored wall, it stung but I got through it. It was my rotten luck that Milista looked down to see me outside her spell. “Hey!” She yelled, “You’re not suppose to get through that!” I ran as fast as I could over to Serena. I didn't dare look behind me, in-case I tripped or something. I reached Serena to see if she was all right. She wasn’t different except for the fact that she was a lot thinner and paler. I just hoped that somehow I could still save her. Now my only problem was how to get out. I heard chanting behind me, so I turned to look at what was going on. Milista was floating above the ground while chanting in a weird language. She gathered a dark red power in her hand and shot it at Serena. Quickly, I protected Serena by placing myself in front of her. I screamed as Milista’s power hit me. I fell over next to Serena, breathing raggedly. “I promise that I won’t let her harm you, Serena.” I gasped. I got up again and turned to face Milista. “What a fool you are, Tuxedo Mask.” Milista said, “If you weren’t trying to protect Sailor Moon, you wouldn’t even be bothered by my kind!” “And what is ‘your kind’?” I asked. “I am part of the Hidden Galaxy. My people are much like you humans, only we have special powers.” She replied. I looked at her. I had to ask, even if she didn't give an answer, “Why are you after Sailor Moon?” Milista narrowed her eyes at me, “I guess I can tell you. We have a leader in our galaxy who can predict the future. He said that one day, our kind would try to come and live on Earth. The only thing was that someone named Neo-Queen Serenity would not let us come...” I gaped at her, could someone actually believe this? “Anyway, Master Remuel said that the Neo-Queen was Sailor Moon's future self. He said the only way to destroy her was to come now while she was still young and had less experience and power. So that is why we are after her, and anyone who stands in the way of getting her. Like you.” I sputtered, “And you believed this ‘Master Remuel’? He must have been lying! Neo-Queen Serenity will let other non-humans come to Earth! The only reason that she wouldn’t would be because those creatures were trying to bring doom, not peace. You’ve got it all wrong!” “Silence!” She shouted, “You humans babble too much! All we would like to do is to visit Earth occasionally, not destroy it. And Neo-Queen Serenity would have stood in our way. Now we are free to go to Earth and visit.” I noticed that she had said would’ve, not will. “No you aren’t!” I replied, “A lot of humans cannot believe that other beings from other planets and galaxies exist. Many of the humans would assume that you were there to attack Earth. The Sailor Scouts know that there are other planets with other beings living on them. They are some of the few that believe that all of us, human or non, can live in peace together. You must believe me!” “Well I don’t!” She snapped. The next thing I knew, Milista was gathering more power and hurled it at me. “Wait!” A new voice commanded. Milista’s power-ball disappeared as two more of her kind appeared. One was red with yellow hair, and the other was green with purple-streaked hair. The red one turned to face me, “I am sorry for what Remuel’s followers have done to you and your friend. ‘Master’ Remuel is a big liar with a lot of power. My companion, Tonnor, and I have been trying to gather our kind together and defy Remuel, but it seems that there are those who still follow him.” She gazed wearily at Milista. “SemiOtto, get out of my way! Those two humans there are the ones that will cause us trouble if we don’t get rid of them now! So move, otherwise be destroyed with the humans!” 'SemiOtto' planted her feet more firmly as Tonnor replied, “Milista, you forget that we hold more power than you. Now please stop this nonsense so you can go back home.” “Never! Not until those two are destroyed!” She shouted as she pointed at Serena and I. Tonnor and SemiOtto grabbed hands as they said a spell. Milista disappeared. I blinked, “Where is she?” I asked. Tonnor looked sadly at me, “She is now in the galaxy where only truth can be found. There she will find the right answer and find out that Neo-Queen Serenity would allow us to go to Earth.” I noticed that he also said would not “will”. I looked at Serena who lay on the ground. Her once white dress was now dirty. I saw a glimmer on her finger and saw the engagement ring. “Serena.” I whispered. I turned back to the human-like-creatures and asked, “Can you remove the sleep spell that she is under?” SemiOtto glanced at Tonnor, “Darien-” She cut off as the room rumbled. “Hello SemiOtto, Tonnor, and Darien.” The voice trembled across the room. A tall alien appeared. It was hard to see him because he wore a black robe. The hood fell back to reveal a human-type face. His hair was colored as black as night, his skin as red as a rose. “It doesn’t matter if you remove the spell, or that my minions are gone.” He continued, “I have succeeded. That wimp is finished,” he motioned to Serena, “and he will join her soon.” “Remuel, you won’t win. You must have seen it yourself, you being someone who can see the future.” Tonnor answered, “Darien will surely live, don’t doubt that, and SemiOtto and I will defeat you for good.” He didn't say anything about Serena Master Remuel laughed, “Wake up, ‘fighters’!” He taunted, “I am more powerful than anyone! If you do want to fight me, get started!” SemiOtto knelt beside me, “We’ll get Serena and you out of here. Then if anything goes wrong, you’ll be safe. I’ll send you into a void where you will wait for Tonnor and I to appear. We’ll send you back to Earth and do our best to lift the spell.” She started chanting. “Wait, what-” I never finished. Colors swirled and changed before my eyes as I floated in a void with Serena. “Oh, Serena.” I whispered, “What if they fail? I guess I can only hope that they will win. SemiOtto said that they’d ‘do their best’ at trying to free you of the spell. Does that mean it’s already too late?” I bit my lip. It couldn’t be too late. Serena had to still be alive, she had to be! After what seemed like days, Tonnor and SemiOtto appeared, “He was a strong fighter.” Tonnor breathed, “But we destroyed him. No longer will he be interfering with others’ lives.” “Please,” I begged, “can you save Serena?” The two again exchanged glances, “We’ll try.” Replied SemiOtto slowly, “You see, Darien, we’re not sure if Serena has survived this whole time through the sleep-spell. Humans and our kind are different. The spell that was used on her was never used on a human before.” My vision blurred, “Try it.” They nodded and floated a little above Serena. They outstretched their hands to one another and held on. Tonnor muttered words that I could not hear as SemiOtto called, “Lift the dark spell witch infects the sleeping human. Good and true is she, she is not the one who deserves this evil spell. Lift this spell! The sleep spell caused by Rianna and Tyna, lift and let the girl arise to life again.” The two twirled in the air as wind picked up. In a few minutes, it was over. The thing was, Serena didn't look better... but worse. “What?!” I cried. SemiOtto shook her head sadly, “I didn't think it would work. Now I must send you home with her, I’m so sorry that we can’t help more. Someday, our people will come to Earth. Please let them in... good bye!” Her voice faded and I fell into blackness. When I awoke, I was laying on the ground in the park. The moon was up and I wondered how long I had been gone. “What a weird dream.” I thought. I glanced over and was surprised to see a thin and very pale Serena laying there. “Serena! So it wasn’t a dream!” I knelt by her and held her hand. It was cold and limp. “Serena. Please wake up!” Tears streamed slowly down my cheeks. The spell was gone, but so was Serena. I shook my head, “No! I won’t believe it!” I touched her cheek, all I felt was coldness. I hugged her to me, “No, Serena!” I whispered. I held her as I cried and tried to think how I could have saved her. She had said that only Rini’s and my love for her would save her. But it hadn’t. My body shook with sorrow and fear. She couldn’t be gone! I couldn’t believe that I’d never see one of her klutz attacks again, I couldn’t believe that I’d never hear her voice, or feel her hand in mine. I just couldn’t believe she was gone. “Huh?” I asked the air. Serena’s outline was dimming, “No! What’s going on!” Serena vanished, the only thing left was her ring. “No!” I shouted. I was stunned and numb with shock. Where was she? I wept and held the ring in my hand. “Serena!” My cheeks grew wet from tears and I shook my head, trying to shake away my sorrow. “Darien.” The wind whispered. I looked up and felt a hand wipe away my tears, even though no one was there. “Don’t cry, please don’t!” The voice said. No one was to be seen. All I heard was her voice. The invisible hand again brushed my tears away. I felt a breathless kiss on my forehead as the wind disappeared. I knew that the ‘invisible’ person had to have been Serena. In a trance, I walked to Andrew's apartment. I knocked on the door. When it opened, I was surprised to find Setsuna looking out at me. She blinked, “Darien, where have you been the past three days?!” “What?” I asked shakily. She lead me inside to find all the scouts (including the cats) and Andrew sitting around. He got up worriedly. “There you are Darien! We all decided to meet tonight and see if we could figure out where to find you-” he stopped, looking at my face. I knew what he saw, complete despair. “Darien?-” I sat down hard in the chair that Amy abandoned. I whispered, “Amy, tell him everything. About who we really are, about who Rini is, about what happened to...” I tried again, “to... ugh! You know who!” I put my face in my hands. “Everything?” She asked I looked up. “Yes, Sailor Mercury.” She was stunned. “Of course. Andrew I guess Darien wants you to know that we here,” she motioned to the girls, “are the Sailor Scouts.” I saw Andrew's absolutely surprised face. Raye got up from her chair and Andrew sat down. Amy continued, “Darien is Tuxedo Mask...” She explained briefly about the scouts and their major battles. She also explained who Rini was and that she was from the future. The last thing that she explained was what had happened to Serena. Andrew sat there for awhile, looking at all of us. His eyes flicked from me to Rini, then back again, “That’s why you couldn’t explain.” He finally said, “Whoa! This is really strange, so Serena is Sailor Moon. I always knew something was fishy about those two cats.” He looked at Luna and Artemis who were sitting by Mina. Luna sniffed, “We are not ‘fish’, Andrew.” He was surprised. “I don’t know if I’ll be able to get used to hearing a cat talk.” Lita broke in, “Hold it! We need to get going and try to find Serena, before it’s too late. Oh, maybe we should hear where Darien has been.” I was barely listening. Lita had to call my name again and again to get me back to the present, “Huh?” “Come on Darien!” Haruka prompted, “We’d like to know where you’ve been!” I looked around the room at the anxious faces. My eyes rested on Rini, I knew that she wouldn’t be able to handle this. My vision blurred as I remembered Serena’s thin body, how she had looked almost like a ghost she was so pale. I couldn’t tell them, I just couldn’t. “Darien?” Asked Amy. I looked at her and she knelt on the floor by me, “We have to know what happened. Do we have any hope?” I whispered in a choked voice, “No. No hope.” I put my head in my hands, “I- oh.” Tears flowed down my face, making my hands sticky. I wanted to hear Serena’s voice again, calming me. I wanted to feel her beside me as we watched a movie or went for a drive. “Serena.” I whispered. Setsuna’s voice was firm but kind, “Darien, now.” Slowly in small pieces I retold the story of Master Remuel and of SemiOtto and Tonnor. If it had been another story, I’m sure that we would have all laughed at the name ‘SemiOtto’, but giving that this story lead up to Serena’s disappearance, we were all solemn. All the girls were crying at the end of the ‘story’. Artemis tried to comfort Luna, though he wasn’t really succeeding. I turned to Rini who was crying on Hotaru’s shoulder loudly. “Oh, Rini.” I whispered. My own tears fell steadily. Serena was gone. She was simply gone. Very slowly, the girls left until only Andrew and I were there. “I’m so sorry Darien.” He whispered. I didn't look up, I didn't respond. All sense of time was lost. Eventually I fell to sleep where I was confronted by a dream. “Serena!” I called. “Where are you?” I listened but the fog didn't shift or move. And a voice did not reply. I was about to try again as a brightly-lighted spirit came through the fog. Serena. “Darien? I’m still here!” I cried out happily, “Serena, you’re okay!” I ran towards her. She hugged me tightly, “I was beginning to think that I’d never see you again!” She told me. “Same here!” I replied. As we talked, fog set in. It made Serena disappear again. “Hey!” I yelled, “Where’d she go?” I thought I saw a shadow so I ran after it. When I couldn’t find the shadow anymore, I looked around. It was very misty. The only thing I could see clearly was some sort of dais up ahead. I noticed that something was on it. My heart beat fast, my feet ran. There she was, Serena. “No!” I cried. She was thin and pale. Her hands rested on her stomach with a single white rose held in them. “Serena.” I knelt beside her, not believing that she was truly gone. I touched her cheek, it was cold. I kissed her forehead, “I love you. And I always will. Serena, please don’t go! I love you so much, there is so much to do in life yet. Don’t go!” I cried. Slowly I woke up, “She’s truly gone.” I stammered. I cried until I could barely breath. I hiccuped myself to sleep again. At noon, I awoke to find Andrew standing out on the balcony. He came in. “Are you okay Darien?” He asked, I nodded dumbly, “I think you should take a walk. That always helps to relive stress.” I didn't argue. Pretty soon I was walking along the streets of Tokyo. I watched every face and saw all expressions; happiness, fear, anger, sorrow, guilt, and love. My feet turned me to the park. I didn't really want to go there, but I walked straight through anyway. Finally I stopped outside a building. I looked up to see that it was the arcade. “We met here many times.” I murmured. My eyes filled with tears and I tried to wipe them away without success. “Oh, Serena.” I sat for a time on a bench outside the arcade. I recalled when I had first met her outside of OSAP, Molly’s (Serena’s friend) mom’s jewelry store. Serena had crumpled up her test paper and threw it into my face. At that time I only knew her as “Meatball head”. How I wished that I could see her now. I got up and walked to my apartment building. I was curious to see if my place was cleaned up yet. I stood outside my doors and reached into my pocket to see if I had my keys. I was in luck, I took the keys out and opened the door. The inside was clean and straightened out, but it was very bare. Most of my furniture had been wreaked so a lot of it wasn’t there. I walked over to the telephone and called up Andrew, “Hello, Andrew. I’m back at my apartment. Later on I’ll come by and pick-up my car.” “Okay. Darien? You all right?” His voice was concerned. “Yeah, I’m fine. Thanks for being a great friend Andrew. I’ve needed it lately.” “Sure. If you ever need anything, let me know. Good-bye, Tuxedo Mask.” He hung up and I did the same. I sank down into an arm-chair and fell asleep again. (I don’t know exactly why I was so tired.) I woke up to hear knocking at my door. As I glanced at my watch, I noticed that it was six o'clock. I yawned and went to the door. I opened it... and... I gaped. “Darien!” Serena cried as she threw herself into my arms, “Oh, Darien!” She wept and I held her, crying myself. I pushed the door closed and looked down at her. “I thought you were gone!” I whispered, still crying, but this time I was crying for joy. “I didn't think I’d see you! Oh, Darien I don’t know what happened! Just all of the sudden a glimmer of light appears and talks to me. It told me how to become free again! And now I’m back, finally I’m back!” She smiled up at me with tears glistening in her eyes. Serena’s face was a healthy color again, though she was still thin. I realized that she was wearing a white T-shirt and a lavender skirt, instead of the white dress that she had worn on our date. “I just can’t believe it!” I said, “It’s a miracle! Thank goodness you’re all right!” We laughed happily and I twirled her around. “I’m so happy!” She whispered. “So am I.” I replied. I noticed her breath quickening as I bent down to kiss her. We broke our kiss and again we smiled. “I better call all the others, including Andrew.” “Andrew?” She asked. I flashed her a smile, “He knows about the scouts.” She gasped, surprised. I grinned and went to the phone. “Hi Raye! You won’t believe this but-” I turned to face Serena who was looking out the window, “Serena’s back.” I pulled the phone away from my ear as Raye shrieked. Serena turned around and laughed, “That Raye!” I grinned, knowing that finally things might be normal. For once. A few years later... I stood on the Crystal Palace balcony and looked out at the city in the darkening light, Crystal Tokyo. Only three months ago had Serena been crowned Neo-Queen Serenity and I, King Endymion. I turned around to see Serena- I mean (oh forget it. You know who I’m talking about) walk onto the balcony. She joined me by my side, “Oh, Darien. It’s so strange to be here. To actually be standing here looking out upon the city that used to be Tokyo. Have you gotten used to being here in the palace yet?” She turned to me. I grinned, “No way. I’ve been used to a small apartment all my life. Not some big castle!” She smiled back at me, though I noticed that something else was on her mind, “What is it?” I asked, “Not another fight with Raye, I hope!” I groaned, thinking about the last time those two had gotten into a fight. It had been awful. “No.” Serena replied, “I guess I’m just a little sad because we don’t see Setsuna much anymore. She’s so busy with guarding those time gates. I do wish that she could some how be free of her lonely duty.” “It’s okay. Sailor Pluto was destined to be guardian of the time gate, just as you and I were meant to be King and Queen of the Earth.” I gave her an encouraging hug. “I guess you’re right.” She sighed, “Amy is having so much fun with trying out all the computer stuff. Greg’s helping too. They’re having a blast. Lita’s been hanging out in the kitchen trying out new recipes, while Raye is working on writing songs. Mina is...” She stopped to think, “Actually, I don’t know what she’s doing. Michiru is working on violin. Haruka is-” “Whoa!” I cried, “I don’t need to hear about everyone! Are you trying to tell me that you’re bored or lonely?” She wrinkled her nose, “You know me too well.” I grinned, “Okay, okay. I admit that I am bored and lonely. It just seems like all my friends have found something they enjoy, but I’m left out of it. And then there’s something else I can’t explain.” She looked up into the sky at the rising moon, “It’s this urge to go, home.” I stared at the moon. “We will, someday.” I promised her. She nodded. “I know.” She sighed. Little footsteps sounded behind us and we turned to see Rini (only one at this time) walking towards us, “Mama.” She said. Serena knelt down. “Come here dear. You need to go to bed now.” “No.” Was the answer. I shook my head, “Oh, Rini. I guess you won’t be hearing a new bedtime story. Too bad.” I sighed. Rini’s eyes looked horrified and she ran over to me. She grabbed onto my leg and looked up, “Daddy, please!” I smiled and picked her up. “You ready for bed then?” I asked. She nodded. I told her, “I don’t think so young lady, you better go have Mommy help you change into you’re Pj’s. Go on now!” I set her down and watched her run off, pulling at Serena’s dress. I laughed and turned back out to look at the city. “So we made it this far. No trouble has been seen for years now. What will be the next enemy? And will Serena’s wish to go to the moon come true? I think I’d enjoy trying to fix up the Moon Kingdom.” My thoughts were broken as Rini ran back out with her Luna sphere following. “I’m ready now!” She called. “All right then, go in and I’ll be there soon.” She ran back in and I turned one last time to see the last of the sun. It was so hard to believe that there had once been people/aliens like Beryl, Alin, Anne, Wiseman, Rubeus, Rianna, Tyna, Milista, and Remuel. The world was finally at peace. And it was wonderful to have a rest from all those awful battles with strange creatures. Serena came out again, “Dear, Rini is waiting. Along with Artemis, Luna, and Diana.” I smiled. We walked to Rini’s room. She was sitting up in bed, petting Diana. “Okay. What story will I tell tonight?” I asked. Rini’s eyes lit up, “Moon!” She cried. I wasn’t surprised, her favorite stories were of those about Sailor Moon. “Luna? Artemis? Serena? Any suggestions?” I asked. Luna thought. “I think you ought to tell her of the time when I first started to find the scouts. I know that you have told those stories many times, but she likes them.” Luna said. I nodded, though I saw Serena give me a glare, “You had better not make me look silly!” I grinned, “Who? Me?” I laughed, then started the story, “Once long ago there was a teen-aged girl named Serena...” Rini watched the whole time with eyes wide as I retold the story, “And the next day, girls were talking about seeing a weird witch fighting Sailor V’s partner. But you and I know who it really was, Sailor Moon.” I saw the disappointment in Rini’s eyes. She knew that was all she would get to hear tonight. I always dragged the story out so that it would take many nights to tell. “Now, honey, it’s time to go to sleep.” She slid under the covers and I tucked her in. Diana curled up next to her and Luna and Artemis slept on the floor. Serena bent down and gave Rini a kiss, “Night! Remember, tomorrow we’ll go on a picnic!” Rini smiled. I bent over and whispered to Rini, “I’ll tell you more of the story tomorrow!” She giggled. I gave her a kiss on the forehead and followed Serena out. I turned the lights out and Rini’s little moon night-light came on. Serena and I walked down to the gardens. “Darien, how do you tell those stories so well?” she asked me. I shrugged, “Maybe because I’ve heard them before, or maybe because I’ve lived them.” She smiled at me. “I love you.” She whispered. “And I love you.” I replied. I picked a white rose from the garden and handed it to Serena, “To you, from Tuxedo Mask.” She took it from my hand and held it as she looked at the moon. She was so lovely, just standing there with the breeze making her hair float and the moon-light bathing her in white light. I smiled. No matter what, I knew that I’d always be with Serena. Even though she used to be a complete klutz, crybaby, and was always jealous, she was the one I loved. My true, and only, love. The End Hey everyone! How’d you like my story? I finished this on May 24 (at 10:18 p.m.) I’ll touch up a few spots, but I’m actually done! (^.~) Maybe it’s not a long as “Beryl’s Last Fight” (my other fanfic.) but I like this one a lot more. I guess I was in a dramatic mood to make this story so down and sad. But hey, I really enjoyed writing this! It’s a lot of fun! As always, if you have any comments, e-mail me at: whyfam@execpc.com tell me any comments or questions, I want to hear from you. Later! Okay, Hi again! It’s May 25 now. I fixed up a few parts and added more detail. I need some help from you other fellow Moonies, do any of you have any clue on what Darien’s job is or would be? (I can’t figure it out.) PLEASE E-mail me and let me know. Also, is there any ideas from any of you on what to include in my fanfics? I really enjoy writing ones about Serena and Darien. (And I guess I like to write sad stories since some of my favorite fanfics by others have been sad. I also love to read dramatic and romantic books. [It’s kinda a secret passion.]) R all of u wondering 'bout how Serena came back? Me too! Sorry, I really don't know what to say what happened. Disclaimer: I DO NOT OWN SAILOR MOON! (got it?!) The only characters that I made up in this story were: Milista, Rianna, Tyna, Tonnor, SemiOtto, Remuel, and I think that’s it. Thank you to all the people who help make Sailor Moon! And thanks to all of you out there who helped get Sailor Moon into the US. (Maybe even someday we’ll get the S and SuperS series in. Maybe even the movies!) [That’d be cool!] All right, I’ll go. I know that I’m going coo-coo so I’ll let you go and do whatever you need to do (like homework maybe, or chores?). Adios! Faithful Moonie, Sailor ClearMoon