Soul Mates
by lady

CHAPTER EIGHT
Dreams Denied, Dreams Fulfilled

 

Fireworks exploded in a bright shower, covering the night sky in a rainbow of light. The delighted spectators below clapped and cheered as the spectacular display continued, marking the beginning of a new year.

Although the clocks had struck midnight more than half an hour past, noise and revelry still reigned everywhere in the city. Everywhere, that is, except for a certain skyscraper that stood in the middle of downtown Tokyo. Here, instead of light and gaiety, darkness and silence pervaded.

The shaded windows on the first thirty floors fairly screamed the emptiness of the building. Only the bright glow coming from the roof structure hinted at the presence of people in the restaurant on the top floor. But even within its walls, utter silence reigned as the two groups gathered there stood still and wary, waiting for someone to make the first move.

"Usako..."

Sailor Moon watched as Mamoru took a step forward, half holding out his hand as if to touch her. She stepped back slightly and fought the urge to flee before he managed to reach her. When she gazed into his eyes however, she saw the plea plainly written there and felt a softening in the barrier she had built around her heart.

Makoto looked at Nephrite and couldn't help but admire the handsome picture he made in his uniform. Then she suddenly remembered the past few weeks and her heart fairly broke at the thought of how he'd deceived her. She had judged him to be kind and gentlemanly, and had truly believed he cared about her when he said so. But all the time he was her enemy. The one who had fought Sailor Moon and her two other friends. The one who had used an innocent girl to further his evil plans. The one who had--fallen in love with another.

Michiru was also thinking of her love but with totally different thoughts. She was thanking her lucky stars that Ashe was not an enemy and that she didn't have to fight him. Admittedly, he seemed the more powerful of the two of them. But she couldn't have born the guilt if she had ever managed to hurt him. Now, that eventuality had no possibility of coming true, and she was glad.

Minako and Ami were both totally confused about who was a friend and who was a foe. They both regarded the three Moon Kingdom generals, as allies but weren't too sure about the four Earth generals. They had been hurt a lot by the latter in the past and were wary of their presence. And yet, they had helped to defend them. Why?

Haruka studied Galen's person carefully, noting the slight bruises and scrapes he had obtained from fighting the youma. She wished she had Saturn's talent for healing so she could erase the pain he must be feeling at the moment. Then, suddenly realizing what she was thinking, she stiffened in shock. She was no stranger to pain herself and had never minded it before. But now that it was Galen's pain, she felt like it was burning through her skin. Michiru must be right, Haruka finally accepted. I must be in love with him. She found herself stepping forward, ready to bid Galen and the rest welcome when...

Rei watched the Royal Guard with doubting eyes, trying to ascertain their motives for appearing friendly. They must have somehow tricked Usagi and the other three men into believing what they wanted. She didn't know how they managed to come back to life, or even what their plans were, but she was definitely going to keep a watchful eye on them. She felt certain the four men had something evil in the works and watched in horror as Mamoru stepped forward, holding out a hand to them. Rei exclaimed without thinking...

"Mamoru-san, be careful!"

Although Sailor Moon didn't react physically to the exclamation, emotionally she reeled back. She had almost given in and met Mamoru halfway before Rei had uttered her warning. Now she stood still as all the hurtful memories of that day, four years ago came pouring back. They had not trusted her then, too. It seemed they still didn't.

She looked at the wary expressions on the Inner Senshi's faces and pasted a cynical smile on her face. "Yes, Mamoru-san. Be careful. I can't be trusted, you know."

Rei regretted her hastily spoken words when she realized Sailor Moon thought it was directed at her as well. She tried to rectify her mistake unsuccessfully. "I didn't mean--"

"Don't bother, Rei. We all know how you feel about me. It doesn't really matter," Sailor Moon interrupted. She stepped back until she felt Falcon's presence behind her. "I have other friends now." And, looking up at him, "Some who are very special to me."

Mamoru felt the impact of her words like a blow to the chest. What a fool he'd been to think that she would gladly walk back into his arms after the way he'd treated her. He saw the way she was looking at Falcon and felt dismay all the way to his soul. Does she love Galen now? Was she lost to him forever?

Falcon stared down at Sailor Moon and felt divided loyalties in his heart. He had seen the way Haruka was watching him and felt sure she was close to coming around to his way of feeling. But everything would be lost if he did what Usagi's eyes were asking. He sighed his frustration. The plea in her eyes was heartrending and Falcon couldn't let her down. He had been taking care of Usagi for so long and found that really old habits were hard to break.

Forgive me, Haruka, he said silently to his loved one before putting an arm around Usagi and holding her close. She gave him a grateful smile.

Haruka couldn't believe it when Falcon held Sailor Moon close. She could have sworn that he had been looking at her longingly just a few moments ago, before Rei had spoken. But he kissed Princess at the airport, remember, her subconscious chided. Usagi IS Princess and he likes her.

She closed her eyes, cursing herself for being a fool. But her woman's heart only knew that it was close to breaking and a flood of tears threatened to well. She swallowed hard to keep them tethered and swiftly walked out of the room without turning back.

Michiru saw her friend's condition and was quick to follow. Wolf run to intercept her before she could reach the entrance.

"Michiru, please, I'm not the enemy," he said when she turned to face him, willing her to believe it.

She smiled softly and touched his cheek. "I know."

He sighed in relief. "Thank God." He pulled her close and held her for a few moments until she gently pushed him back.

"I need to go after Haruka," she explained, looking towards the entrance. "She's hurting right now. I think she could use a friend."

"I understand," he replied. "I'll see you later?"

"Of course." She gave him a quick kiss on the lips before hurrying after the other girl.

Falcon had watched Haruka's hasty departure with sorrowful eyes, and regretted causing her pain. He knew it was going to be a lot harder to gain her trust again after this, and just hoped he would manage to do so. I'm sorry, he thought for the hundredth time. I'll make it up to you, somehow.

Wolf rejoined the group just as Sailor Moon started speaking again. There was more confidence in her voice now that she felt Falcon's supporting presence around her.

"I haven't come back to disrupt your group or to change anything. These men," she said, gesturing to the seven behind her, "are my new friends, and they've helped me to decide that I needed to fulfill my destiny. If that meant coming back to Japan and fighting beside you again, that was fine. But it doesn't mean I'm going to force myself into your group, so you don't have to worry about that."

"But you're our leader, Sailor Moon," Ami insisted. "You'll always be a part of our group."

Sailor Moon shook her head. "No, I'm not, Ami. I distinctly remember stepping down from that position more than four years ago. You don't honestly want me to believe that you haven't chosen another leader yet?"

"We haven't," Makoto answered. "We made a mistake, Sailor Moon. We didn't realize it until much later but, when we did, we knew nobody could take your place. And nobody has."

Sailor Moon didn't want to listen to their explanations. The fresh hurt the memories brought back filled her mind and hardened her heart. She felt their betrayal like it only happened yesterday and no amount of words can make her forgive them for what she'd suffered.

"It's too late," she almost screamed, and Falcon held her closer to keep her from breaking. She was grateful for his strength. "It's too late," she repeated more calmly. "I don't want to be a part of you any more."

The Inner Senshi looked at her sadly, not knowing how to make amends. They all felt helpless against her hurt and anger.

"These men have their own stories to tell, but I'll leave that up to them," she continued. "This is Galen," she introduced, indicating the warrior beside her. "He is also known as Falcon, the leader of the Knights of Selene, a Moon Kingdom general. These two are his friends and comrades. Ashe, also known as Wolf, and Drake who, as you already know, is also Lynx."

Walking closer to the four men at the back, she gave them a smile of encouragement. "These are the generals of the Royal Guard. Or, more specifically, Endymion's protectors."

Mamoru and the Inner Senshi were taken aback by that statement. They couldn't believe what they were hearing.

"This is Kenjo or Kunzite," she said, gesturing towards the white-haired gentleman before quickly going through the rest of the introductions. "Zachary or Zoisite, Nathan or Nephrite, and Justin or Jadeite. I know they look familiar to most of you, but they're not who you think they are. Give them a chance to tell their tales and you'll see what I mean."

The strength seemed to leave her body after uttering those words and she leaned against Jadeite for support.

"Are you okay, Usagi?" he asked, concerned.

"I'm fine," she reassured him. "It must be all the anticipation and pressure I've been feeling today. It suddenly caught up with me."

"You should get some rest," Falcon recommended. "Why don't we change back and I'll walk you to your suite?"

Sailor Moon nodded and got a hold of the tip of her cape. In a few moments, she and all the men had transformed back to their ordinary selves. She let Galen take her hand and lead her towards the door, feeling a few pairs of eyes boring into her back.

When Ashe followed the two of them, leaving the Earth generals, Mamoru and the Inner Senshi alone, none of them knew what to do. Mamoru was unaware of the tension among the others, lost in his own misery as he watched his only love leaving with another man. He didn't want to stick around to be hurt anymore and turned to leave the place where he'd found and lost her again in a matter of moments.

"I'm going home," he announced to one and all. "If you want a ride, I'll wait for you downstairs."

The four girls eagerly answered an affirmative, glad for an excuse to leave. Ami and Mina were out the door before Kenjo and Zachary realized what was happening. Rei was close to disappearing around the bend when Justin caught up with her.

"Rei, wait up!"

She rounded on him. "Get away from me, Jadeite! I don't know what you're up to, but leave me out of it!"

"Will you listen?!" he persisted.

"No!" she screamed before fairly racing down the hall to the elevators.

"Damn!" Justin exclaimed, hitting the wall with his fist.

Makoto witnessed their exchange of words as she walked towards the door. Not wanting to let her go without an explanation, Nathan was right behind her.

"Mako!" he said, reaching out to touch her, but changing his mind when she turned around. He saw the hurt in her eyes and blamed himself for causing it. "We need to talk."

She started shaking her head. "I don't know," she said hesitantly. "You're not who I thought you were. I...I..."

"You have to give me a chance to explain," he interrupted, a plea clearly in his tone.

Makoto closed her eyes. She didn't know what to do. Should she trust him long enough for an explanation? She decided she didn't have anything to lose.

"Alright. I'll meet you tomorrow afternoon at two at my place. We can take a walk from there."

"Thank you. You won't regret it, I promise."

"I hope so," she whispered softly before taking her leave.

I hope so too, Nathan thought silently. Or life won't be worth living after tomorrow.

From the other side of the room, Hotaru and Drake witnessed the interactions, or the lack of it, between the Senshi and the generals, and wished there was something they could do. But, short of telling the ladies about their lives in the Moon Kingdom, there was nothing else to do. Besides, they might not believe it if they were just told. The men had to find a way to prove it to them, somehow.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

The early morning sun found Ashe sitting in his car just outside the gates of Haruka and Michiru's residence. He had called earlier that morning and asked Michiru to have breakfast with him so they could talk.

The door of the mansion opened and his lady appeared at the entrance. She smiled at him and quickly made her way to the car. "Good morning!" she greeted as she entered the vehicle. "So, where are we having breakfast?"

He smiled at her enthusiasm. "I thought we'd have it at the Silver Millennium," he replied and, at the look of confusion in her face, quickly amended, "That's the name of Nathan's restaurant, the one where we had the party last night. It also happens to be the name of the entire building."

"The Silver Millennium," she repeated, testing the sound of it out loud. "It's appropriate, I guess, since the owners all come from that time period."

"We thought so," he agreed before starting the car and heading towards downtown Tokyo.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

In Morgon's camp, deep within the Earth, one of the lesser seers looked at his prince in fear as he burst out, "What you're saying is impossible! It can't be true!"

"I'm afraid there is no mistake, my lord," the troubled Wiseman answered. "None of us can feel Drago anymore. He must no longer be in existence."

"And the youma that were with him? Have any of them returned?"

The Wiseman shook his head.

"Damn those Sailor brats!" Morgon screamed. "It's all their fault! How could they best Drago? Tell me! How?!"

The seer kept his silence, knowing that he wasn't really expected to answer.

"I want those Senshi eliminated, do you hear me?" Morgon continued. "If it has to be done one by one, I want it accomplished. I'll hold you personally responsible, Athol."

"Yes, my lord," he accepted the command. "It shall be as you wish."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

The elevator doors opened to show Nathan standing by a fully prepared table for two near the picture windows. He smiled and bowed deeply when his two friends reached his side, holding a chair out for Michiru.

"My lady," he said gallantly, gesturing for her to sit down.

"Why, thank you, kind sir," she replied, playing along with his game. "And here I thought chivalry was long dead."

A rakish grin appeared on his face momentarily before he once more assumed the mask of the ever-helpful servant. "What can I get for you today?"

She quickly named two of her favorite breakfast dishes before Ashe added his own choices. Nathan jotted the items down like a professional waiter and closed his notebook when he was done.

"If that's everything, I'll leave you two uhh--alone--while I ask the chef to prepare your meal." Then, with another grin directed at Ashe, he continued, "I'll make sure they bring it as quickly as possible."

"Not TOO quickly!" Ashe shouted at Nathan's retreating back.

When he had gone beyond the partition to the kitchen, Michiru looked towards Ashe enquiringly. "What's up with him?"

"I think he's nervous," was the quiet reply. "He's supposed to meet Makoto later today to explain things, and he's trying not to dwell on it."

"I see. She's actually going to listen to him?" she half questioned, surprised. "From what I saw last night, things seemed pretty tense between them."

"They were. But Makoto got to know him really well before she found out that he was Nephrite, and I think she liked him a lot. It's kind of hard to erase everything she learned to appreciate about him in the past few weeks, just because of what she'd heard about him in the past."

Michiru nodded her understanding but wasn't totally convinced. "The only problem is--Makoto is very loyal to her friends. How is she going to let herself like Nathan when the others hate what he represents."

"I guess it's up to Nathan to bypass that obstruction. It all depends on what he tells her this afternoon and how convincing he is."

"I guess so."

The kitchen doors opened and a waiter walked out with their order. To both their surprise, it wasn't Nathan anymore.

"Where'd your boss go, Hayashi-san?" Ashe enquired of him while he laid out the dishes.

"He's in the gym doing some training exercises, Usaka-sama. He said he needed the practice."

"For what?"

The waiter shrugged his shoulders and held tightly to the empty tray as he left their presence.

At Ashe's bewildered expression, Michiru gave a tinkle of laughter. "Your friends are weird, Ashe. But they're also funny."

"Our friends," he corrected. "Believe me, they're your friends too."

Michiru noted the sincerity of his tone but couldn't help asking anyway. "Are they?"

"Yes," he replied but didn't elaborate. "Speaking of friends, how's Haruka this morning?"

"Not too good, I'm afraid." Suddenly, all the gaiety seemed to leave Michiru's face, and a worried frown replaced the smile that was there a moment before.

"Did she say anything to you?"

"I tried to talk to her last night but she wouldn't say a word about her problem. She said she wanted to be alone for a while so I didn't bother her." She raised concerned eyes towards him. "I'm really worried about her, Ashe. She cried last night. I've never seen her do that before. It just isn't something Haruka does."

Ashe reached across the table to hold her hand, comforting her. "Don't worry, I'll help you. Do you have any idea what the problem is?"

Michiru nodded her head. "It's Galen. She loves him."

"Haruka said she loves Galen?" he asked incredulously. It seemed too good to be true.

"She actually only said that he was very special to her, but I could see it in her eyes. And, after the way she reacted when he held Usagi last night, there can be no mistaking her feelings."

"I see."

"Is there something between Usagi and Galen, Ashe? Is Haruka's case hopeless?"

It was his turn to shake his head. "There was something between them in the past but I thought it was all over. I don't know why he acted like he did last night, but, as far as I know, he cares a lot for Haruka."

"He does?" she repeated hopefully.

"He does," a deeper voice answered from the entrance, making the couple turn in that direction.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Galen had gotten up early that morning after a restless sleep. He was too troubled by the previous night's events to be able to rest easily. After a shower and a change of clothes, he went up to the top floor to see if he could find any of the other men.

He had just reached the closed doors when he heard Ashe asking, "...how was Haruka this morning?"

"Not too good, I'm afraid."

He recognized Michiru's voice and clenched his fists at her words. The more he listened to their conversation, the more he hated himself for doing what he did last night. And he hated himself all the more for agreeing, indirectly, to repeat his actions in the foreseeable future.

When he walked Usagi to her suite last night, they talked for a while. He asked her what was going on and she answered hesitantly...

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

"I almost gave in, Galen. Just before Rei warned Mamoru off, I almost walked back into his arms...into his life."

"And that's a bad thing?"

"It just won't do. I don't want to pick up where I left off four years ago," she tried to explain. "I need to know that they really want me as their leader. That they'll trust me when things get tough."

"But they admitted they made a mistake, Usagi. They never picked another Senshi to replace you," Galen reasoned out.

"A mistake?" she laughed bitterly. "A mistake that cost me my home, my family, my entire life as I knew it!" She paused to take a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. "When I left, I had no self-respect, no sense of self-worth. I knew they were wrong to accuse me of the things they did, but deep down, I thought, maybe there was some truth in their words," Usagi continued tearfully. "I thought that maybe I should have done something more, something different. That maybe if I was stronger or smarter, I wouldn't have been hurt, and I wouldn't have been late in getting to them. I started doubting everything I did. I totally lost my self-confidence."

"I'm sorry," Galen said, taking her in his arms to comfort her.

"It doesn't matter now. It's old news," she said against his chest. "My new family helped me to regain all I've lost. They taught me that I was special, and that I could do whatever I wanted." She laughed then, trying to lighten the mood. "I even managed to be good in Math!"

He made an effort to smile, knowing that that was what she wanted. He would shield her from all hurt if he could. But Usagi was a grown up now, and didn't need his protection anymore.

"What do you want me to do?"

She disentangled herself from his embrace and turned around, looking out through the glass patio windows. She was quiet for a long moment before she finally spoke. "I could keep the Senshi at bay until I'm ready to confront them, but Mamoru is a different matter. I've chased him for so long--and loved him for so long--it's become a habit that's hard to break. I can't deal with him right now. I need to put some distance between us." She turned back and looked him in the eye. "That's where I need your help."

Galen sighed resignedly. "Let me guess. You want us to pretend to be a couple so he won't come after you, right?"

Usagi nodded, unsure of his reaction.

He shook his head. "If I know Mamoru, a little thing like another man won't stop him. And we both know I'm talking from experience."

"Maybe it will, maybe it won't. But at least there's a chance it might distract him. He'll have more to think about than just trying to talk me back into his life. He'll have to get rid of your presence first."

"A prospect I don't exactly savor," he put in.

"Oh, come on, Galen. You know you can handle him if you wanted to."

"But I don't. Want to, that is. He's a good friend, Usagi, even if he doesn't remember it. I don't want to hurt him in any way."

"And I don't want you to, either. Just help me keep him at a distance until I can deal with my feelings for him." At his stoic expression, she moved closer and made him look at her. "Please. I promise it won't be for long."

"You don't know what you're asking, Usagi," he said firmly, thinking of Haruka.

"Please."

Giving up, he drew a resigned breath. "Very well. But only for a short while."

"Thank you," she said wholeheartedly, giving him a grateful smile.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Standing outside the restaurant doors and still listening to the conversation within, Galen learned that he'd made Haruka cry--something that even he had never seen her do--and he wanted to hit something. It wasn't right, what he was doing. But he had promised.

Galen knew Haruka cared about him and Michiru's words just confirmed it. He had to let his friends know that he felt the same. He had to let somebody know what was happening or he'd go crazy trying to bottle his feelings.

"...he cares a lot for Haruka."

"He does?"

"He does." Galen had walked the few steps necessary to bring him inside the restaurant. He watched as both Ashe and Michiru turned towards him.

Ashe was the first to speak. "Galen, I didn't realize you were there."

"I heard you talking and I thought I could answer Michiru's question better."

"Please do," that Senshi replied. "Why don't you join us and we'll talk some more."

Galen took the empty seat on Ashe's right and settled in for a long conversation. "Maybe it would help if you knew everything from the start, Michiru. A thousand years ago, in the time of the Silver Millennium..."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

A few hours later, at Makoto's house, Nathan stood looking at his watch on the doorstep. It wasn't quite two o'clock in the afternoon yet, so he debated whether to knock or not.

All morning long, he had anticipated and dreaded this moment at the same time. He had done everything to keep himself from thinking about it and was exhausted from the hard workout he had put himself through in the gym earlier. At one o'clock, he couldn't wait any longer and started the short drive to Makoto's place. He ended up sitting in his car for the better half of the past hour and was now even a little early to be standing on the doorstep. Nevertheless, he knocked on the door to announce his presence.

Makoto had just finished changing when she heard the knock. She knew it must be Nathan and hesitated about answering the door. Coward, she called herself silently. You promised you would hear him out. You can't back off now. She gathered her courage and pasted a smile on her face before heading for the entrance.

Nathan breathed a sigh of relief when he heard the lock being turned. He had been afraid that Makoto had changed her mind when it took her a while to answer. Now he stood looking at her, taking in the smile that didn't reach her eyes and the uncertainty that was lurking there instead.

"Hello," he greeted with a smile, trying to put her at ease. "Ready to take a walk with me?"

She nodded. "I'll just grab my jacket and be right out." She disappeared inside the house for a few moments before reemerging wearing a suede bomber jacket. With that, her jeans, a thick knit pullover, and ankle-high boots, she was all prepared for a nice stroll on a cold winter day.

Nathan, who was wearing almost the same outfit except for having a leather jacket instead of suede, noted the similarity of their clothing and counted it as a good omen. At least they seemed to be on the same wavelength so far. He only hoped they would stay in perfect harmony throughout the afternoon.

"You're very quiet today," Makoto ventured to comment. "I thought there was something you needed to tell me."

"There is," he answered. "I just don't know where to start. It's very complicated."

"The beginning is usually a good place to start."

"You're right," he agreed, coming to a halt. Looking around, he finally spotted a bench located in the middle of some evergreens which looked appropriate for a private conversation. "Let's sit over there for a while," he suggested. "This explanation might take some time to finish."

Makoto wasn't sure if she wanted to be so private with him, but her conscience jabbed at her again. Coward. "Alright. Lead the way."

They walked the short distance to the bench and had been settled for a couple of minutes before Nathan finally found a way to begin his story.

"Do you remember anything about the Silver Millennium, Mako?"

"Not much. Actually, all I know are bits and pieces of the final battle against the Dark Kingdom, when Queen Serenity saved us all and sent us to the future."

"I thought as much. That's the big difference between you and me, Makoto. You see, while you hardly know anything about your past, I remember everything about mine."

"You remember the final battle too?" she asked. Then, shaking her head as if she'd asked a stupid question, "Of course you remember the final battle. You were one of the generals who led the attack."

It was Nathan's turn to shake his head. "It's true that I was there during the final battle, but not in the capacity you think. I never raised a hand against the Moon Kingdom."

When Makoto seemed about to protest, Nathan raised his hand to stop her words. "Please hear me out, Mako, before making any judgments. I find it very difficult, as it is to repeat those last hours in the Moon Kingdom. I promise to answer all your questions afterwards, if you'll only listen to me first."

Seeing the earnest look on his face, Makoto was compelled to agree. After all, she was only saying yes to what she'd already promised him last night. She nodded her head.

Taking a steadying breath, Nathan closed his eyes and tried to envision the past. In his mind's eye, images flashed in reverse, going back all the way to the beginning. The first time he saw Makoto.

"I was chosen to be one of Endymion's protectors when I was eighteen because of my combat skills as well as the fact that I was a member of a royal house. Kenjo, Justin and Zachary were also chosen at the same time, for the same reasons, and we all started our roles as generals of the Royal Guard together. We moved to the palace to live and trained to be the best protectors Endymion could ever have. In the process of achieving that goal, we became good friends."

"Because Endymion was young and not one to cower behind anybody's back, he decided to train with us. Soon we didn't think of him as the prince anymore but as our buddy, someone we could trust with our very lives."

"Then, one day, the King ordered him to go to the Moon as an ambassador for Earth. Endymion gladly accepted the position, knowing that the Moon was the center of the Silver Millennium and reputed to be very beautiful. Of course we accompanied him on the journey two days later and were presented to Queen Serenity as soon as we arrived. That's when I first saw you, Makoto. You were standing on one side of Princess Serenity, looking very beautiful in a light green gown. You and the rest of the Inner Senshi were whispering among yourselves, and I remember wondering what you thought about the five of us."

"I was glad when the queen asked her daughter to show the prince around the kingdom, hoping that you would accompany her as well. Of course the princess was less than thrilled at the prospect but dutifully accepted her mother's wishes. She asked the prince to meet her at the garden the following day."

"When I saw you with her the next morning, I was so happy I almost missed the fact that the situation wasn't exactly ideal for everyone. The princess was hardly talking to the prince except when necessary, and Minako was trying to defend her actions in low tones to Kenjo, who was arguing for Endymion's side. Behind us, Rei was quietly glowering at a bewildered Justin who didn't know what he had done to deserve such treatment. Only Zachary and Ami were talking to each other, unaware of the confusion going on around them. In the midst of all these turmoil, I tried to clear my mind and find a way to start a conversation with you."

Nathan went on to describe how he found out about their shared love for cooking and used it as a means to get closer to her. As the days passed by, they were constantly thrown in each other's company and their friendship soon grew to a more serious relationship. They fell in love.

"It seemed everything was turning out perfect for all of us, since the prince had finally won his princess and the rest of our friends had also matched up. We were all quite happy for a time and we all looked forward to Serenity's eighteenth birthday." Here Nathan's voice became softer as he almost whispered, "I was going to ask you to marry me at the ball."

Makoto clenched her fists in her lap, feeling disbelief and frustration at the same time. All of her dreams had been centered on the man beside her for the past month, and not even in them had she dared to believe he would ask her to share his life. Now here he was, telling her that he had almost fulfilled her most fervent wish in the past.

"But I was never able to do it," Nathan finished.

"What happened? Did you change your mind?" she asked, grasping at anything that could keep her anger from dissipating. What he was saying was starting to penetrate her mind and soften her heart. She was starting to believe him.

A ghost of a smile passed Nathan's lips so quickly, that Makoto wasn't sure if she'd actually seen it. Then a grim expression settled on his face.

"No, I didn't change my mind. I still feel the same way, even now. But something happened before I could get back to the Moon Kingdom, and to you. That something was Queen Beryl."

Standing up and pacing back and forth a few times, he suddenly stopped in front of her. "I still remember holding you that last time, and telling you I loved you. I promised to be back as soon as possible before letting you go to join my comrades. Even as we were leaving, I was already looking forward to seeing you again. I never knew I would live to regret that sentiment later."

Makoto watched the muscles tense on Nathan's arm as he continued to talk. He was looking straight ahead, at the evergreens at her back, but seemed to be viewing a totally different picture. He was totally lost in his own story.

"When we finally reached Earth, there was chaos all around. Human bodies littered the ground like so much dirt, and blood tinged everything in sight. The four of us told Endymion to get out of there quickly and go back to the Moon. He was hesitant to go, not wanting to leave us, but we convinced him he had to go warn them of the danger ahead. I guess the thought of keeping the princess safe finally made him agree to go."

"We decided to split up then, each going in a different direction to reach the palace. We thought one of us had more of a chance of getting there that way. We were wrong."

"Before I even reached the woods surrounding the palace, I heard a loud explosion coming from that direction. I hurried my pace but met with a number of youma when I was halfway through. I managed to destroy all of them but was wounded in the process. I staggered on, and was almost at the courtyard, when I came upon Zoisite. He was bleeding from a deep cut on his side and was quickly losing consciousness..."

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

"Zach, can you make it?" Nephrite asked of his friend. "We have to get to the palace before any more youma appear."

"I'll try, Nate, but I feel so weak. I'll only hinder you."

"I'm not about to leave you out here," he replied determinedly. "Come on. Let's get moving."

He placed his arm around Zoisite's back while the other man held onto his shoulder for support. They moved along as best as they could and managed to reach one of the side doors of the palace. They both thought they had finally reached safety. Again, they were wrong.

As soon as they opened the door, the youma were upon them. Nephrite tried to put up a defense but was overwhelmed by the sheer number of attacks heading their way. It was a hopeless battle.

Weak and battered, they were taken to what was left of the palace throne room. All around, burnt pieces of furniture and charred tapestries were the only things left of the beauty that once surrounded the place. The blackened walls and missing roof bore testament to the explosion that happened earlier in this very room. And, in the middle of all this destruction, were Kunzite and Jadeite, who were just now regaining consciousness.

Upon the throne, instead of the King, sat a tall woman with long, flaming red hair. She looked at them through narrowed, snakelike eyes and laughed at their misfortune. "So this is Endymion's Royal Guard. How pathetic!" Another peal of jeering laughter echoed across the room, making Nephrite clench his fists. He tried to get up to attack her but was held in place by an invisible force.

"It's no use trying to destroy me, Nephrite. It's already too late. Even now my army gathers outside the palace to get ready to head to the Moon. It will all be over before you know it. But don't worry. I'll make sure you don't miss a thing." And with those words said, she raised her arm and focused on the four men in front of her. They were pushed to their feet by the same invisible force that had held them down earlier, and had no time to react before they were suddenly encased in crystal blocks. They couldn't move a single muscle but their minds were active, and they could see and hear everything around them.

"Did you do as I ordered?" they heard Queen Beryl ask one of her minions.

"Yes, my queen." The youma moved closer and handed her four little cylinders containing some fluid. She gave a satisfied smile as she examined them and found them to be just what she wanted.

"Take a good look, gentlemen," she smirked as she brandished the vials. "These are samples of the blood taken from your wounds and will prove to be the downfall of the Moon Kingdom. Watch!"

She emptied the vials in four different spots in front of the throne. Then, holding her staff with both hands, she forced powerful bands of dark energy from the crystal ball on top to strike the blood on the floor. The liquid started to boil and, unbelievable, seemed to increase in volume. Soon four puddles had formed and, as if poured into molds, started arranging themselves into human-like shapes. After everything had settled down, four male specimens stood where the fluids once were--and each of them looked exactly like one of the four generals of the Royal Guard.

Nathan felt shock go through his system as he watched his twin don a familiar uniform. It was an identical copy of his own except that it was done in gray instead of the usual black he wore. He longed to move closer then, to touch him, to look him in the eyes, to see if there was a soul lurking in their depths. But he no longer had any control of his body, and only his mind was free to make demands.

What are you planning to do with them, you witch! Whatever it may be, it won't work. The Senshi are too smart to be fooled by your copies. They'll know it's not us. They'll know.

He kept repeating the words as if trying to convince himself. Because, deep down in his heart, he was afraid for his loved one. Afraid that she might not realize it's a trap before it too late.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

"I watched as Beryl commanded some of her monsters to take us outside. As they carried us past the four clones, my double turned around and looked straight at me, and I felt the deepest fear settle in my heart."

Makoto saw a shudder run through Nathan as he sat down and took hold of her hands. She felt uneasy about the way he was looking at her, so she ventured to question, "What did you see?"

"Nothing. There was absolutely nothing in his eyes. No emotions. No feelings. Nothing to help keep the hope in my heart that you would be safe."

"After that, I didn't want to see what was going to happen anymore, but that choice wasn't mine to make. Beryl had her own way of punishing us for trying to oust her. When we reached the Moon, she had us set down high above the battlefield, but close enough to have a clear view of what was about to happen...

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Nathan watched helplessly as the impostors walked towards the closed gates of the Moon Kingdom palace where the Inner Senshi waited. He and his comrades had been forced to watch the battle from the onset and he had taken heart at the fact that the palace itself has not yet been breached. Their friends, the Knights of Selene, had successfully defended the kingdom from the first onslaught of youma and were now fighting the second batch. The Inner Senshi guarded the palace gates very well and managed to destroy everyone who had dared to try to pass.

But now they were looking at the approaching impostors with welcome in their eyes. When relieved smiles touched their lips, the real Nathan felt a constricting in his chest. He could literally taste the fear in his mouth as he watched Venus and Mars open the gates willingly. The doubles had been advised well and knew which lady to approach, the one most vulnerable to each general. They went unerringly to their targets without a single twinge of conscience at what they were about to do.

Mako, please be careful, Nathan warned as he saw his loved one open her arms in a welcome embrace. Look in his eyes! It isn't me. Oh God, please, know it isn't me! he pleaded. Mako!

His pleas went unheeded as she closed her arms about the fake general and raised her lips for his kiss. The clone didn't miss a beat as he lowered his head in response, all the while removing the dagger from his back and placing it between their bodies. In the next instant, he had thrust it to the hilt in Jupiter's chest, just below her heart, and slowly let go of her body.

Makoto looked down in shock at the dagger buried in her chest before dragging her eyes back to Nephrite. Confusion, betrayal, and finally accusation were written in them as she slowly fell to the ground, still unable to believe what had happened. She died looking at her murderer, lying at his feet, her life's blood pouring from her wound.

Nooooooooo!

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Nathan was clutching Makoto's hands so tightly, she thought they might break. But she didn't even think of removing them from his grasp. She was so moved by his story, by the emotions that passed through his face as he told it, and was unable to look away. Her heart went out to him.

"When I saw you die, I couldn't take it. My mind just shut down like a piece of machinery and, mercifully, everything went black. I don't remember anything after that."

He finally opened his eyes and shook his head, as if to wake himself up. He had actually felt like he was back in the past and wanted to rid himself of that particular nightmare. "So you see, Mako, there was never a chance of me ever being this other Nephrite who was fought by Usagi and the others. I heard he fell in love with a girl named Naru and there is no way I could have done that. How could I fall in love with another when my heart wasn't mine to give anymore? It's been yours since the first time I saw you, a thousand years ago."

Oh, how she wanted to believe him, but she still had a few reservations. Rei had been so adamant that the Earth generals were the ones they had destroyed before and therefore must be up to something evil. Minako and Ami weren't sure what to believe either, and were no help at all. If only there was any proof that he was telling the truth, anything at all, she would gladly take his side.

"Do you believe me, Mako?" Nathan prompted. "Everything I told you is the truth, I swear."

Makoto looked up to reply when she suddenly saw it--a monstrous hand with sharp claws about to slash Nathan to bits.

"Watch out!" she screamed, pulling him forward, out of harm's way. Nathan reacted quickly and rolled away a few feet, taking her with him. When they were at a safe distance, he looked back and saw the creature that spooked Makoto. Only there wasn't just one, there was a whole army.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

A group of youma had been commanded to search the city for any sign of the Senshi as per their prince's wish. They had disguised themselves as humans, and were wandering around in no particular fashion, when one of them heard a conversation behind some trees. The names of several of the Senshi had been mentioned, and the speaker even once addressed the listener as Jupiter. The youma was positive she had found what they were looking for.

She called the others' attention and motioned them to come closer. She then removed her disguise and bared the sharp claws attached to her fingertips, before quietly moving through the trees to find the couple sitting unaware in the middle. Raising her hand, she got ready to strike, but the female looked up in time to pull her friend out of range.

Now the youma stood looking at the couple a short distance away. While, behind her, the other monsters started gathering around, ready to attack.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Quietly, without fanfare, Nathan closed his eyes and changed to Nephrite. Makoto, seeing this, raised her transformation pen and shouted, "Jupiter Star Power...Make Up!"

Soon the two of them stood side by side, ready for whatever may happen. Nephrite looked sideways at Jupiter and smiled crookedly. "This isn't exactly how I envisioned the scene after I told my story. I'm sorry I didn't pick a more private place to discuss things," he apologized. "Then we wouldn't be in this trouble."

"Don't worry," Jupiter assured him. "I've been in this kind of trouble before, and it's never bothered me." And, with those words, she crossed her forearms and said, "Jupiter Thunder...CRASH!"

The crash of lightning caused a number of the youma to turn to dust but the rest of the group still surged ahead. Nephrite, not used to being idle in a battle, put his palms together, as if in prayer, and uttered the words, "Boreal Turbulence..."

Great gusts of air gathered in front of his hands, blurring his image from sight. He then faced his palms forward and moved as if to push the disturbance towards the youma.

"ENCUMBER!"

Massive surges of wind pushed against the charging enemy, effectively slowing their attack. They were too preoccupied fighting to move forward and didn't notice what their opponents were doing.

"Well," Nephrite said, relaxing slightly, "that ought to hold them for now. But not for long."

"No problem. Jupiter Thunderclap. . . ZAP!"

She pitched a ball of lightning towards the helpless group and obliterated a whole bunch of them.

Nephrite smiled at her confidence before moving to attack himself. He held his right forearm forward, palms up with fingers slightly clenched as if to catch a falling object. In the blink of an eye, a rose suddenly materialized on his hand, ice blue in color and looking like a piece of ice sculpture. It disappeared within his fist as he clenched his hand completely before swinging his arm down and backwards, shouting, "Arctic Tunnel . . . BLAST!"

Turning partly sideways and reversing his swing, he hurled the petals at the unsuspecting youma. Ice blue bits flew in a spiral formation, creating a wide tunnel filled with freezing air. The icy blast hurled monster after monster backwards, freezing them in the process so that their bodies broke into a million pieces when they landed.

And still the rest of the pack surged forward, steadily advancing in the dissipating wind force.

"Damn!" Nephrite exploded. He knew he had no choice now. He had to take a chance on Makoto's remembering and risk their very lives on his next move. He prayed his faith in her memory wasn't in vain.

He planted his legs about two feet apart and raised both arms straight up; hands bent slightly outwards, fingers spread. He looked towards the sky and hoped he wasn't making a mistake.

"Whirling Tempest . . ."

The current of air above his open hands started swirling in a rapid motion, creating a funnel-like mass of wind and hail. When it had fully formed, he turned to Jupiter, who had just completed another attack, and shouted in a commanding voice, "Now, Jupiter!" Please don't let me down.

She looked at him blankly for a second before quickly mimicking his stance. She raised her head up to the sky and screamed, "Jupiter Thunder Cyclone . . . "

Sparks formed above her open hands and spiraled upwards, creating a funnel-like mass of blinding lightning, not unlike the one whirling above Nephrite's palms.

Then, like in a practiced play, they finished the combined attack together. "DESTRUCT!"

They synchronically lowered their arms and threw the whirling masses of wind and lightning towards the closing enemy. The two forces met in the middle, forming a bigger funnel composed of gusting winds, hail and crashing lightning. It moved in a wide circle and swept what was left of the youma in its fold, crushing and electrifying them before hurling them at great distances to be turned to dust.

As the last of the youma disappeared, Nephrite turned towards Jupiter to see if she was alright. She stood dumbfounded, looking at her hands in disbelief.

"Hey, Mako, are you okay?" he asked, concerned. "What's the matter with your hands?"

Jupiter looked at him with questioning eyes. "How did I do that?" she asked. "I've never used that power before. How did I know what to say?"

Nephrite understood what she meant and smiled in relief that she wasn't hurt. He took her hands and tried to answer as best as he could. "You knew what to do because you created that attack yourself-- with me. We used to train together along with the other Senshi and generals, and we found a way to combine our powers to make a more lethal attack. What you just saw is the result of that combination."

"We. . .created. . .it," she spoke slowly, emphasizing each word. What he'd just said was so unbelievable. But how can she deny his words, when she'd been given a demonstration of its truth.

"It's all true?" she muttered incredulously. "Everything you told me--the final battle, the clones, you and I--it's all true?"

Nathan nodded with a happy smile. He could see that Makoto was finally ready to accept his story. "Yes, it's all true. Do you believe me now?"

Suddenly, tears of relief started in her eyes and she walked into his arms to be enclosed in his embrace. "Oh, Nathan..."

"It's okay," he whispered comfortingly as he placed a kiss on top of her head. "Everything's going to be okay now that we're together."

Makoto silently agreed, as she stayed closely held in his arms, feeling like she'd finally come home.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

A few blocks away, in the condominium where he resided, Mamoru was trying to concentrate on his computer screen. He had been trying to block the previous evening's events from his mind the whole day and was getting nowhere with the program he was creating. He kept seeing Usagi leaving with Galen and couldn't help feeling like he'd lost her forever.

He got up restlessly and walked towards the shelf with the frame holding their picture together. He picked it up and studied the photo closely. She looked so young then, he thought, tracing a finger on her image.

Usako. . .I miss you so.

Then other words entered his mind. Words that she'd uttered last night. . .

I've got new friends now. Some that are very special to me... very special to me...very special to me...

Mamoru's hold on the frame tightened and threatened to break the glass. He quickly put it down before that could happen. Going out to the balcony, he watched as the sun set over the horizon, calming him somewhat. Then the sight of the glowing lights of the high-rise in the distance strengthened his resolve. He was going to talk to her. No matter how hard it was or how long it took, he was going to make her listen to him. He went back inside just as the sun completely disappeared. He was preparing to see Usagi to make his first attempt.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Luna was looking at Minako in shock as she regaled her with what had happened the night before. The feline had not been able to contact any of the girls earlier and was not particularly trying to anyway. It was only when Artemis paid her a visit later to let her know that something was up that she accompanied him to Minako's place. What the Senshi then told her was so incredible; she was still reeling in shock.

"Usagi here? You're sure?"

"I saw her with my own eyes, Luna. It was definitely Usagi but different somehow." Minako wasn't sure how to describe the changes in her old friend.

"Different how?"

"More mature, maybe. Very serious and...and...angry, I guess."

"It's been so long," Luna whispered, happy that Usagi was alright and, apparently, back to stay. "I thought there was no hope of her ever coming back." Then, "I need to see her. Minako-chan, will you take me there?"

"Of course."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Mamoru was driving through the gates when he spotted Minako, carrying Artemis and Luna, and heading towards the large doors. He called out to her and she waved when she saw him. She waited for him by the entrance.

After parking his car, Mamoru joined her and the two cats and they entered the building together. The first person they met was Kenjo. He saw them come in and walked in their direction.

"Mamoru-san, Minako-san, it's good to see you again." Then, bending slightly to focus on the two cats, he smiled. "Luna and Artemis, I haven't seen you in so long. You're looking great. I'm sure Usagi would like to see you."

Reluctantly, Luna eyed their old enemy. "Kunzite..."

"Kenjo please. I'm only Kunzite when I have to do battle."

"Kenjo?" she asked, surprised.

"Uhh, Kenjo," Mamoru interrupted. "Is Usagi around?"

He nodded. "She's in her suite. I'll bring you up if you want."

"Please do."

"Follow me then." He headed for the elevators and punched the button for the thirtieth floor, just below the restaurant. When the doors opened once more, Kenjo walked down the hallway to the two doors facing each other. Mamoru followed suit, looking on the other side at the boardroom entrance. All the time he had met with Galen and Ashe in this very room, Usagi was just a few steps away. No wonder he always felt something, a feeling he can't describe, when he was in there. He had felt her presence but didn't know it.

Minako, still unsure whether to trust Kenjo or not, waited a few steps behind with Artemis and Luna. The three of them watched as the men knocked on Usagi's door.

"Who is it?" a voice called from within.

"It's Kenjo, Usagi. I brought someone who wants to see you."

They heard the lock being turned and, in another moment, Usagi opened the door wide to see who her visitors were. At the sight of Mamoru, she blanched and cast an accusing glance at Kenjo, who shrugged and moved away. Mamoru, not missing a beat, moved to occupy the space he had vacated.

"Usako."

"What do you want, Mamoru-san?" she asked as hostile as possible, trying to discourage his attentions.

"I just want to talk, that's all. It's been a long while, Usako." I really missed you. "I'd like to know how you've been all this time. Where you've been." Have you spent it in Galen's company? Has he enjoyed all the moments we should have spent together?

"I don't really think you have the right to ask me where I've been. I don't owe you any explanations."

"No, you don't. But I do owe you one," he admitted, wanting her to understand. "Will you listen to what I have to say? Please?"

"It doesn't matter now. It's years too late anyway. It has no bearing on the present." Please stop, Mamo-chan. I can't let myself listen to you. You'll only hurt me again.

"But it does," Mamoru said forcefully, taking a step forward but stopping when she moved further into the room. "It's got everything to do with you and me--with us."

"There is no US anymore." But her heart was breaking even as she said it. "There never was. It was just me making a fool of myself over you."

"That's not true!" he denied. "You can't honestly believe that."

"I do." Tears running down her face, she started to close the door while Mamoru struggled to find the words to stop her.

"Usagi, wait!" A female voice said from down the hall. Luna jumped from Minako's arm and quickly headed for her former pupil.

"Luna!" Usagi exclaimed, picking up her old mentor. "It's so good to see you again."

"I can't believe you're here. I've been so worried about you since you left. Where have you been?"

"Well, Luna, if you can stay for a while, I'll tell you all about it."

"For you, Usagi, I have all the time in the world."

Hugging her close, Usagi turned around and closed the door, not noticing the stricken look on Mamoru's face as she did so. He leaned on the wall and closed his eyes, hitting the wall with a fist to ease his frustration.

Towards the elevators, Minako looked at him with sympathy. "What's the matter with her? Can't she see he's suffering?"

"She had a hard time when she left everything behind," Kenjo tried to explain. "It'll take time before she'll forget it. But don't worry, I'm sure she'll come around."

Minako glanced nervously at Kenjo when he replied. She had actually been speaking to Artemis when she'd uttered the question and hadn't expected her old enemy to give an answer. But Mamoru's obvious misery made her forget her wariness and come to his defense.

"But can't she see he's sorry for what he did? Why won't she listen to him? She doesn't have anything to lose!"

"She's afraid to risk her heart again. She loved him so much before and she felt betrayed when he didn't stand up for her. It made her feel like a fool."

"I think she's being totally unreasonable," Minako insisted, almost stomping her foot in her conviction.

Suddenly, Kenjo threw back his head and gave a bark of laughter while she stared at him like he'd lost his mind.

"What is so funny?"

"This," he replied, indicating the two of them. "You, defending Mamoru, and me, defending Usagi. What a total about face for the both of us." And more laughter issued as he recalled certain moments in their past when they'd argued just like today. Only, she had always been on Serenity's side while he staunchly stood by Endymion.

Minako, still looking at him in confusion, stepped backwards to make her escape. He was acting very weird and she wasn't about to stick around to see how crazy he got.

Kenjo was still fighting to check his laughter when the elevator doors closed on her puzzled figure.

~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~

The following day, in a nearby coffee shop, Justin, Zachary and Kenjo sat drinking the hot brew to ward off the chill. They sat in silence, each thinking of the Inner Senshi closest to his heart.

Justin hadn't seen Rei since New Year's Eve and had taken his frustrations out at the gym yesterday. He had stayed longer than Nathan and was tired to the bone by the time he quit, heading for the showers and a soft bed to get some restful sleep. When he woke up in the morning however, all his frustrations were back with a vengeance.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

After waking up with a headache, Justin went to the restaurant, hoping that a cup of coffee might ease the pounding in his head. He met Ashe and Michiru as they were leaving after sharing breakfast for the second day in a row, and his old friend imparted to him the good news. Makoto was back together with Nathan. Justin felt the smile freeze on his face as the couple left and clenched his hands into fists. Coffee and headache forgotten, he went in search of Zachary and Kenjo to see if they wanted to do some hand-to-hand training. He felt an abundance of adrenaline running through his system and wanted nothing more than to pound something to get rid of it along with all his problems.

It wasn't that he wasn't happy for Nathan. He was. But his friend's luck only served to emphasize his own misery, and he needed an outlet for his inner turmoil.

He found his two buddies in Galen's office and persuaded them to join him for some karate exercises. After changing into their training outfits and getting to the gym however, they found Nathan and Makoto already occupying the room. She was laughing at something he had just said when she turned her head and saw them.

"Hello, guys!" she greeted, looking at them from a whole new perspective. "Are you coming to join us?"

Justin couldn't take it. The smiles. The open laughter. The intimate glances that passed between them. He just couldn't handle it. And he needed to get out of there like he needed air to breathe.

"Uhh, no," he replied to his friends' puzzlement. It was a good thing they were wearing outer clothes on top of their training uniforms or his lie would have been quite obvious. "We were just heading out to see a little more of Tokyo."

Makoto seemed to believe him, but Nathan raised an inquiring brow, knowing his buddy too well to accept his words as truth. But then again, he also knew that Justin must have his own reasons for not wanting to stay, so he kept quiet and let the others say their good-byes.

"We'd better get going," Justin continued. "We'll see you two later."

"Okay," Makoto answered as they turned around. "Bye!"

As soon as they left the gym, Justin hurried towards the elevators; his two friends close at his heels.

"What was that all about?" Zachary wanted to know. "I thought we were going to do some training." When Kenjo only shrugged his shoulders, he turned to Justin.

"Justin?"

The other man gave a sigh of defeat, knowing he couldn't get away without saying anything. "I'm sorry, but I couldn't stay in there a minute longer," he confessed. "I'm glad for Nathan and Makoto because they deserve to be together. But to watch them laughing and smiling, and obviously in love is just something I couldn't do. It reminds me too much of the old days when I had my own Rei beside me. And it hurts."

His friends heard the misery in his voice and looked at him in sympathy, knowing how he must be feeling since they were in almost the same situation. They didn't ask any more questions as they left the elevators and walked out of the building.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

"I wish I could see Ami right now," Zach declared, bringing Justin out of his daydreaming. "I'd give anything if she'd just walk through that door right this minute."

"You wouldn't be so lucky," Justin replied sarcastically. "Fate is trying its damnedest to keep us all apart."

"You don't really believe that, do you? Just look at Nathan and Makoto. They're happy together. And what about Ashe and Michiru? They seem to be getting along."

"Then they're better men that I am since I don't seem to be doing so well. I haven't seen hide nor hair of Rei since New Year's eve."

Zachary couldn't refute his point, unable to deny that he too had been having problems pinning down Ami's whereabouts. He wondered how Kenjo was handling the problem since he hadn't mentioned anything about Minako since that fateful night. "What about you, Kenjo? You don't seem worried at all. Don't you miss Minako-chan?"

"Actually," Kenjo started, fidgeting in his chair. He hadn't told the others of his unplanned meeting with Minako yesterday. "I sort of saw Mi-ko yesterday."

"What?!" Justin exclaimed. "When? Where? Was she alone or did she have the others with her?"

"Whoa!" Kenjo put his hands up in a gesture of surrender. "One question at a time. I saw her yesterday afternoon when she brought Luna to see Usagi. Mamoru was the only one with her and he tried to talk to our princess again but had no luck." He smiled then, remembering what took place after. "Minako started arguing on his behalf and, of course, I took up Usagi's side. After exchanging only a few words though, the situation suddenly struck me as ironic and I started laughing. I couldn't stop myself even when I saw her leaving. I guess I'll have to apologize the next time I see her."

Zachary smiled at the picture he created, happy that at least one of them was getting somewhere. "You must have been in cloud nine then, having an argument with Minako again. Just like old times, eh, Kenjo?"

He answered with a smile of satisfaction, his happiness showing on his face. It was hard for Zach not to feel envy when he looked at him that way, so he turned away.

"Speaking of old times," he continued as he gazed out the coffee shop window. "Isn't that Rei crossing the street?"

Justin was immediately alert, looking in the direction he indicated. Then he was putting on his jacket and excusing himself as he hurried outside. In a few moments, his two friends saw him following Rei's path.

Rei was just coming from the new excavation site her team was working on. She was looking forward to a hot bath after a cold morning spent outside, unaware of Justin dogging her steps until he touched her shoulder. She quickly turned to see who it was.

"You again!" She shrugged his hand away and tried to lose him by walking faster. When he kept pace right beside her anyway, she asked as rudely as possible, "Why can't you leave me alone? I don't want anything to do with you."

"Not until we talk, Rei. I have so much to tell you about the past. So much that you don't know."

"If you had any part in it, I don't want to hear about it."

"You don't understand, Rei," he kept on, trying to get ahead of her so he can see her face. "I'm not who you think I am. I'm not..."

"Oh, stuff it! You're everything I think you are! Every bit the evil creature I know you to be. I don't know why Usagi thinks this disguise is real when you've donned so many others before, but I'm not as simpleminded or easy to fool as she is."

That comment stopped Justin dead in his tracks right in front of her, effectively halting her progress as well. "Wait just a damned minute," he said tersely, his own temper starting to rise. "You can say whatever you want about me since you don't really know me at all, but you have no right to say such things about Usagi. Those are just the kind of comments which led her to leave in the first place."

Rei looked at him in horror, hurting at his accusation. She hadn't meant to malign Usagi in any way but, as always, had said the first thing that came to mind. She didn't like the fact that this man, her enemy, was playing the role of her friend's defender when he must have more vile intentions planned for her.

"Don't try to con me by trying to defend Usagi," she retaliated. "She's my friend and I'll apologize to her if I have to, though I'm nowhere near as bad as you are. At least I'm up front with my emotions. If I'm mad at her, she'll know it right away. But you, you pretend to be her friend then stab her at the back."

Justin stiffened at her verbal attack, resisting the urge to shake her so she'd stop insulting him and stay quiet long enough to listen to his side. "You hardly know anything about me, Rei. Not enough to make those kind of judgments."

"Oh, I know you alright," she replied indignantly, furious that he'd dare to try to fool her even now. "I've fought you enough times to know you're nothing but a vicious pretender who'll do anything to further your evil plans." And she shouldered her way past his still form, aiming to go as far as possible while he was in a stupor. But his next words managed to halt her steps.

"Okay, Rei. You win." It took all of Justin's courage to say the words that would end all his hopes, all his dreams. It seemed he'd been living his whole life waiting for this moment. The moment when he would be alone with Rei once more--to talk, to love, to dream. But Rei's insults were like a dash of icy cold water, drenching his hopes and washing away all the color from his dreams. What was left was a soggy, lifeless picture. Nothing like he thought it would be.

He told himself that she wasn't the woman he remembered from the Moon Kingdom. That the arrival of the Dark Kingdom had distorted her point of view and she'd changed. But the invisible knife buried in his chest kept twisting and turning anyway, as if trying its best to carve his heart out of his chest. And it hurt.

"Win?"

"You win. I won't be bothering you anymore."

"Well, it's about time," Rei huffed haughtily, trying to quiet the voice inside that said she was making a big mistake. "But I'm sure you'll still be bothering me someday, when we meet in a field of battle."

That did it! When Justin thought he could feel nothing more than a churning mass of pain, his temper came to the rescue. "Enough! You go too far, Rei. I told you I won't be bothering you anymore, and I always keep my word. But before I leave you alone, Miss Know-it-all, there are certain facts you need to realize!" And he took hold of her wrist and half dragged her to a nearby deserted alley.

There, a shocked Rei stood unmoving as she tried to hide the sudden fear she felt inside. Justin was looking at her like he wanted to kill her from across the width of the alley, and she couldn't seem to make her feet move. Then her eyes went to his fingers as he lifted them to his shirtfront, determinedly loosening the buttons as quickly as possible.

She watched as the shirt started to gape and slapped a hand on her mouth to stop the shriek that wanted to escape.

Oh God!

to be continued...