Days of A Silver Past!
                           By Daniel C. Harrison
                 (A Sailor Moon Story of the Silver Imperium!)  

     
     Prologue: Over a thousand years ago once existed a great Empire in the Sol
Solar System. This story is about the people of this empire. Their
hopes..their dreams..their relationships. It is a story of glory..and tragedy.
It details the friendship and betrayal of friends and neighbors...and leads to
ultimate destruction. Now let us look through the barrier of time as we
view...Days of A Silver Past!


                      Chapter One: Unknown Neighbors!


     Minister Alcon squinted as he gazed through his telescope. Zooming in
more, he brought the large continent into view as he tried to see what activity
there was. Like the Silver Imperium Empire, the people from this continent were
space farers. Less then a few hundred years ago their fleet of ships had come
from outside the solar system and had chosen not to contact anyone. They had
used their technology to wall off themselves from the more primitive denizens
of Earth. But now...perhaps the time had come to make contact. They would know
of the Silver Imperium's existence. It was said their ships had scanned the
Imperium when they came through. Queen Serenity had chosen to wait until
contact was made but, none had. And so...like the rest of Earth they were
unknown except for the few times Serenity had chosen to send representatives to
Earth. A small retreat existed for the Queen but, beyond that, the Imperium had
tried to leave Earth alone and let it develop on it's own. Queen Serenity felt
that undue influence to any primitive culture would be damaging.
     But...this continent. It's technology was far advanced above anything on
Earth. And, it had recently come under Alcon's scrutiny because, it seemed to
be making overtures to one of the more advanced continents on Earth...Atlantis.
     
    "Minister Alcon?" a voice said. 
     Alcon turned and smiled as he saw the inquisitive face of Princess
Serenity, the Queen's daughter. She giggled.
     "Are you trying to surprise an old man, dear lady?" Alcon grinned.
     Serenity giggled again and nodded. "Are you looking at Earth again?"
     Alcon nodded and turned back to the telescope. "The Queen may have ways of
seeing our neighbors that don't depend on instruments such as this Princess
but, I have always been one to use more classic means. Magic doesn't solve
everything you know. Science must work hand in hand with it."
     Serenity looked over his shoulder. "Why don't those people make contact
with us? Why do they keep to themselves?"
     Alcon shrugged. "Who can say? Fear perhaps. But, I've been talking to the
Queen and, she thinks the time may be right to send representatives to Earth to
actually meet these people. She has also been considering sending overtures to
Atlantis."
     Serenity smiled. "That's good. I think we should meet our neighbors and
maybe, if they want, make them a part of the Silver Imperium. After all, I think
it's inevitable we will all someday meet."
     Alcon nodded. "Perhaps. Yet, in every encounter there are always unknowns.
Your mother is wise. She'll know what to do."
     Serenity smoothed her dress as she sat down. "My birthday is tomorrow." 
     Alcon leaned back in his chair and grinned. "Yes, I know. I imagine the
Queen has some special gift for you. As will your friends the Princesses of the
respective Imperium planets."
     Princess Serenity stood up and looked into the telescope. "Atlantis. Do
you feel we should trade with them and the others? Who are they?"
     "The others?" Alcon shrugged. "I have tried to listen in on them but, they
seem to use a different form of communication. Telepathy perhaps? I believe the
continent is called Lumeria."
     "Lumeria." Serenity repeated the name slowly. "And your feelings?"
     Alcon laughed. "Your like a miniature version of your mother, Princess.
You look like her too." He sighed. "My feelings? Atlantis is very advanced and,
they are native to Earth. They are not from outside like we are...or the people
of Lumeria."
     "Has Lumeria contacted Atlantis?" Serenity continued to gaze through the
telescope.
     "I don't know. Maybe your mother does." Alcon winked at her.
     Serenity stood up. "I'm going to ask her."
     "So inquisitive." Alcon chuckled. "Why? You never were before."
     Serenity nodded. "I know. But...I feel like it's time I learned more about
the Imperium. And, our neighbors. The Imperium is a wonderful place, Alcon.
Shouldn't we want everyone to share in that happiness?"
     Alcon shrugged. "Yes but, you have to remember. Not everyone may feel
secure with that knowledge. They may look at it as a possible threat. How would
you feel if you thought you were strong and suddenly found an entire empire at
your doorstep?"
     "But you said they know about us."
     Alcon held up his finger. "Ah ah! Lumeria I am sure knows. But, Atlantis?
That's a different story."
     Serenity reached over and hugged him. "Thanks, Alcon. I'll talk to you
later. I'm going to see my mother."
     Alcon hugged the Princess close. "Your growing up so fast, Serenity. I can
remember when you were just a baby. Now, your turning into a young woman.
Granted, you will be young a long time. Our race is eternal. But, you will
someday look on this time and wish for it again."
     Serenity pulled away. "I know what I want for my birthday tomorrow."
     "Oh?" Alcon grinned.
     "I want to meet the people on Earth."
     Alcon nodded. "Maybe it's a good time then. Of course, that decision is up
to your mother, dear lady."
     Serenity turned away and walked toward the door. As she did so, she looked
back over her shoulder. "I know how to handle mother. Thanks again!" She
giggled and swept out with a rustle of her long dress...

     Alcon sighed and turned back to the telescope. Lumeria...and Atlantis. He
wondered if the two had yet met. If so, maybe the time for trade had come.
Lumeria would undoubtedly tell Atlantis about the Imperium.....                

     Princess Serenity moved happily down the long corridor smiling at the
guards that bowed to her as she passed. The castle where she lived was a
wonderful place. She could see the huge columns which poured water into the
large pool out front. There were happy people laughing and enjoying themselves
in the pavilion. She stopped a moment to look at herself in the large golden
mirror which hung in the main hall. People were moving quickly around her about
their various tasks. Yet, they always seemed to have time to smile as they did
so. Ever since she had been born, she had enjoyed a warm and comfortable
feeling with them. Of course, her mother being Queen might have something to do
with that. But, she could tell just by looking into their eyes the feelings
were genuine. Life was good she felt. And yet...she blinked at herself in the
mirror. And yet, something seemed to be missing. She wasn't sure what. But,
being a young Princess at fourteen years, she knew if she looked hard enough
the answer would eventually come..

     Serenity moved on and reached the main Receiving room where she knew her
mother held court for the Imperium. She could see representatives from Mars
talking to her. The Queen looked up and smiled as she saw her daughter. 
     "Serenity dear, please come here."
     Princess Serenity moved forward and curtsied to the men. "Good morning."
she said.
     The men nodded and bowed. "It is an honor to meet you Princess." one of
them said grinning.
     Queen Serenity turned back to the men. "You can tell King Holar that I
support and respect his opinion. I was thinking along similar lines as well. I
have already consulted with the other planets of the Imperium. I have yet to
receive word from the planet Mara on this. I think they may be holding out."
     "It is understandable." The man sighed. "Mara and Chronos are the two
inner defense planets. They have an important duty to the Imperium just as our
world does and the outer planets."
     It is a big decision." The Queen smiled. "I will let you know my decision
before the end of the week. Depending on what events occur, it could be
sooner."
     "Very good your Majesty." The men bowed again and then bowed to Princess
Serenity before leaving.
     
     Queen Serenity smiled and hugged her daughter close. "You are growing so
fast. I know why you are here." 
     Princess Serenity looked up. "Really mother? I know that Luna and Artemis
are telepathic. I didn't realize you were."
     "I didn't mean that." The Queen looked at her daughter. "Your birthday
is tomorrow. I haven't forgotten."
     "Mother!" Serenity hugged her mother again. "But, you don't really know
what I want do you?"
     The Queen shrugged. "I may. But, if you want me to guess I will."
     The Princess laughed. "No mother. I'll tell you because, I want you to
know my reasons. I just left visiting with Minister Alcon."
     "Alcon." The Queen leaned back on her throne. "He's a good man and very
valuable to us."
     "Then what do you think about him watching what's going on with Earth?"
     The Queen blinked. "I knew he was keeping a close eye. Has something
happened?"
     "Well..." the Princess hesitated as if not sure what to say. "He was
telling me about the two advanced continents...Lumeria and Atlantis."
     "Yes, we discussed that last week." The Queen sighed. "And you're here to
tell me...?" she trailed off leaving her daughter the opening.
     "Mother.." Princess Serenity's voice grew in excitement. "I...I want to
meet them! If the people of Lumeria are advanced like we are, shouldn't we be
trading with them? And if Atlantis is ready..them too?"
     Queen Serenity stood up. "It isn't as simple as that. But, perhaps the
time has come. I have wondered why Lumeria hasn't contacted us yet. They must
know of the Imperium. It is hard to miss. Perhaps even Atlantis knows of it
now."
     "Minister Alcon says those are the only two continents advanced enough on
Earth to understand us." Princess Serenity continued. "If we just approach
them, maybe we can get to know each other."
     The Queen nodded. "You have to understand something though. The people of
Earth are human. They are mortal and not like us. The people of Lumeria may be
like us..I don't know as, we don't know enough about them yet."
     "Then maybe we should find out?" The Princess winked. "Please mother? It
would be an adventure."
     "You have lots of adventures with your friends." the Queen smiled again.
"But...I think you are right. In fact, I was just talking to those men about
this very subject. King Holar of Mars thinks that the time for contact with our
unknown neighbors has arrived. There is a very good possibility they are
already trading with Atlantis although, Lumerians rarely leave their area of
influence. They may be travelling by teleport and we can't see it."
     Princess Serenity squealed with delight and hugged the Queen. "Mother you
are so good to me! Everyone loves you so much! Maybe when we become good
friends, they could join the Imperium?"
     The Queen laughed. "In time perhaps. But, let's deal with things as they
come. I know that the ruler of Lumeria is a Queen. Queen Beryl if I remember
right. I'll talk to Alcon, Artemis, and Luna about how to go about this. I
imagine the Minister of Defense will have something to say about it as well."
     "But you know what's best for us mother." Princess Serenity pulled away.
"When we finally go down to meet them...I want to go too!"
     The Queen nodded. "After such a wonderful speech about inter-world
relations how could I refuse? I am impressed you want to learn so much about
Earth. Do you have an interest in it for a reason perhaps?"
     Princess Serenity shook her head. "No..I just feel like I want to meet
them. I know what exists in the Imperium. I've been with you to all the worlds
and all my friends are Sailor Senshi. I know you've had me train with them.
But, this is something totally new."
     "New is better?" The Queen grinned. "I understand. Do you like learning to
be a Senshi?"
     "Yes. But..sometimes learning to fight when we have nothing but peace
doesn't make much sense to me. Maybe as I get older I'll understand."
     The Queen moved over to the window and put her arm around her daughter.
     "It is through being able to defend ourselves that we can have peace. But
if all else fails.." She waved her hand and, her Crescent Wand appeared. Atop
it was the Silver Crystal. Queen Serenity nodded. "If all else fails...I can
use this if I have to." She saw her daughter's face filled with concern. "Don't
worry. I probably never will have to in defense. I much prefer using it to heal
those in need and help people."
     "Helping people is best." The Princess looked up at Earth that hung in the
darkening sky. "That's why I want to meet them. I know we can't show them our
advanced technology but..we can help in other ways. Thank you Mother."
     Queen Serenity smiled. "I guess that answers my question that I was going
to ponder. I'll call a meeting of the Leaders of the Imperium. But, the
consensus has already been reached. After a little more study, we'll make
contact with Lumeria...."

                       
                      Chapter Two: New Relations

     The sea crashed against the rocks sending a shock of spray against the
protective wall that surrounded the large castle. Below in the harbor, the
great ship rocked back and forth. It's strange design made Prince Endymion feel
something stir inside him as he watched it glide gently up to the dock. A knock
at the door caught his attention. "Come in." he said.
     The door opened and, a man with blonde hair entered. "They're here, Your
Highness."
     "I can see that." Endymion nodded toward the window. "After several months
of messages, they've finally come. I wonder what the Lumerians are like, Felv?"
     Felv shrugged. "I don't have a clue but, I know your father will be quite
upset if you aren't there to meet them with him and your mother. This is a
great day for our country."
     "Yes, it certainly is." Endymion sighed as he looked at the blue sky
overhead. White clouds gently moved across it. "Although it is a little scary.
We've traded with many nations that are less advanced then we are. But, this is
the first time we have ever encountered anyone more advanced. What if they are
enemies?"
     "I'm sure the military has already advised your father of that
possibility." Felv indicated the door. "If Your Highness is ready, they are
waiting now."
     Endymion grinned and walked past Felv. The young warrior followed behind
the Prince and shut the door. "It won't do to have the Lord Prince absent when
our new friends and possible future allies arrive."
     Endymion listened to Felv as he rounded the corner and went down the huge
marble staircase. As he did so, he could see the huge ship through one of the
windows arrive at dock. Endymion stopped and stared at it a moment. "It's almost
like...it glides across the water..or maybe on top of it...not even touching!"
     "If we don't get down there to meet them, your the one that will be
touched young Prince!" Felv's eyes were fixed on him.
     Endymion laughed. "Young Prince? You're only a few years older then I am,
Felv!"
     "But with more wisdom I think." Felv pushed Endymion gently. "Our guests
are waiting. I suggest we hasten our pace."
     Endymion nodded and the two moved quickly. A crowd was gathered as they
exited the main doors and descended the long stairwell down to the dock. Guards
were present everywhere standing by with their long swords and crossbows.
     Endymion nodded to each man as he passed. He could see his mother turn and
glare at him from the head of the reception platform. His father didn't look
very happy either.
     As Endymion climbed up on the platform which was directly across from the
strange ship, his mother turned to him. "Honestly Endymion! When are you going
to think responsibly? You're going to rule Atlantis someday and, we can't have
you being late at every important event. Especially this one!"
     "I apologize, Mother." Endymion bowed. He shot a quick grin at Felv who
sighed.
     His father King Edicor remained silent. The strange ship with a metallic
surface that seemed smooth suddenly made a humming sound. Endymion turned
quickly and saw that the military was standing ready. Although in ceremonial
dress for their guests, they held a hint of altertness..ready to attack if
needed.
     The humming continued. Then, the smooth surface broke to reveal a door.
The door opened and at the same time, a plank came down to meet with the
platform. For a moment there was nothing. Then, several people appeared. They
were led by a young man..and a young woman who seemed to be dressed as a
warrior. The column of people came down the ramp. Edymion looked at the young
man. He was older then the Prince but, he seemed to hold a certain youth about
him. The woman with him wasn't wearing a sword. Instead, she had a strange long
instrument that was gold and appeared to have an orb on it. The men behind her
also had it. She was dressed in a gray uniform with black boots and had long
blonde hair.
     The man was dressed in green and had dark hair. As he came closer, Endymion
saw his mustache, neatly trimmed and he wore high polished black boots. Endymion
looked down at his own clothes. The Lumerians seemed to be made of different
material. 
     King Edicor stepped forward. "I am King Edicor. Ruler of Atlantis. This is
my wife, Queen Karlel." He waved Endymion to come forward. "This is my son and
heir to the Atlantean Kingdom, Prince Endymion." King Edicor nodded. "You are
most welcome here."
     The man looked at each of them. For a moment he didn't appear to
understand. Then, he smiled. "Thank you." he said slowly. Endymion could tell
the language was different. "I am gaining the use of your tongue but, I am not
yet proficient in it. I am Duke Kinches. I have been asked by Queen Beryl to
come here as a representative and to formally open relations between our two
peoples. I bring a message from the Queen for you..and a gift."
     Queen Karlel smiled. "You speak very well, Duke Kinches. We would be
honored if you would join us this evening for dinner and this afternoon
beforehand we can discuss whatever buisness you wish."
     Kinches nodded slowly. "That is acceptable." He waved the woman forward.
"This is General Aubel. She has been sent as my personal bodyguard but, seeing
I am among friends, I have little use of one." He grinned.
     General Aubel nodded and held up a box. "On behalf of Queen Beryl..please
accept this."

     She opened the box and suddenly, an image appeared of a beautiful woman
with red hair and a crown on her head. Everyone gasped. King Edicor looked at
Kinches. "I..is this some kind of picture?"
     "Holographics." Kinches smiled. "In time as we share our technology with
you, we will let you know about many things." 
     General Aubel turned something on the box and, the image began speaking:

     "Greetings and a warm welcome to our new friends. I am Queen Beryl. I have
ruled the people of Lumeria ever since it's existence. Until recently, we have
kept to ourselves and not wished to influence anyone by our precense. However,
as we have watched you grow, we feel there is great potential between an
alliance and a new beginning for both our people. I would be honored if you
would send a representative back to Lumeria with my people so that we can show
you what we have to offer. We can help you in ways you cannot imagine. In this
box is a crystal from our original world which is gone. We are not from your
world. But, we have chosen to make this one our home and, we wish to be friends
if you would accept."
     Endymion noticed the image flicker. It was like a moving picture but, it
wasn't real. The woman smiled. "I hope this is the beginning of a long
relationship that will benefit both our people. I await your representative
within the week. I will see to it they are given full transportation and any 
questions will be answered. Till then, farewell..."
     The image of the woman faded out....

     King Edicor grinned. "Most impressive, Duke Kinches. Now, let us show you
our hospitality." 
     Duke Kinches nodded and turned to General Aubel. "Please remain on the
ship with the others. I will let you know if anything is required."
     "Very good." Aubel bowed once and went back up the ramp with the men
following her.
     Endymion turned to Duke Kinches. "She said...your not from this world?"
     Kinches nodded. "That's correct. It's rather hard to explain but, we
travelled here in a ship like this. Only much larger..and several of them.
There is also something else you should know while I am here."
     "Oh?" Queen Karlel looked at him. "And what might that be, Duke?"
     "Your being watched by a very large empire called the Silver Imperium."
     King Edicor stared at him. "That's not possible. We knew of your existence
but, other then you, we know there are no other nations that..."
     "They are not on your world, Your Majesty." Kinches cut in.
     Prince Endymion glanced quickly at Felv who looked concerned.
     "You mean...they are over the world?" Endymion asked.
     Kinches nodded. "That's correct, Prince. Your world is in a blackness we
call outer space. It orbits the bright orb in the sky we call the Sun. You will
learn all these things as our relationship with you improves and technology is
slowly brought into your system. However, we don't want to do anything too
quickly. It might induce culture shock."
     King Edicor nodded. "My astronomers that watch the night sky have told me
of this blackness you call space. We see many lights in the sky. Is this empire
a threat to us?"
     "I don't believe so." Kinches smiled. "If they were, they would have
struck you already. Like them, we have been watching you. It was only a matter
of time before our people met and, we cannot wall ourselves off forever. It may
be that soon, you and your people will meet the Silver Imperium, Your
Highness."
     Queen Karlel looked concerned. "Perhaps we should have plans ready in the
event this does happen. Will they arrive the way you do?"
     "I don't know." Kinches stopped and examined a flower that was growing.
"Interesting. We don't have these on Lumeria and I haven't seen them." He
noticed their faces and laughed. "If I knew more I would tell you. But, I
didn't come to just talk about the Silver Imperium. I came to tell you of my
people and to deliver Queen Beryl's message. In fact.." he turned to Endymion,
"if you would permit it, I'd be honored if Prince Endymion would return to
Lumeria with me as the requested representative."
     "Not alone Sir." Felv's tone was firm.
     Endymion winked at Felv. "You'll have to excuse Felv, Duke Kinches. He
doesn't like me to go anywhere unless I'm under constant supervision." Endymion
smiled at his mother. "With your permission, I'd like to go. It would be a good
experience and, you seem to want me to have those."
     "It might teach you some responsibility." King Edicor snorted. "I think
it's an excellent idea. Now then, shall we discuss the proposed alliance? I
have a place prepared where we can talk."
     Kinches nodded. "Of course, Your Majesty...."

     Endymion trailed behind as the Duke talked with his parents and entered the
castle. He stood next to Felv with his hair blowing in the wind.
     "What are you thinking, young Prince?" Felv inquired.
     Endymion brushed the hair from his eyes feeling the wind tug at his cape.
"The Silver Imperium. It has a beautiful name."
     "And completely unknown. Best to be on our guard."
     "You don't trust them?" Endymion grinned.
     "I don't trust anyone until I truly know them, Sir. You know that. I won't
feel safe until I really know THESE people are friends. Everytime we
encountered someone at sea, it never bothered me. At sea and on land, we are
unmatched. But..." his voice stopped.
     "But?" Endymion pressed.
     "Now we have the Lumerians." Felv pointed at the large ship. "Have you
ever seen anything like that? No sails..no deck. It's completely enclosed. I
have no idea what even moves it. Yet, you said it yourself. It glides across
the water without even touching it. And, that Duke."
     "What about him?" Endymion shrugged. "I found him to be very nice."
     "Of course he is!" Felv shook his head. "He's on a diplomatic mission.
Yet, he tells us of an empire in the sky! Maybe he's doing that so we more
easily trust him."
     "Then you don't believe such an empire exists?"
     Felv shrugged. "There probably is. Maybe he's here to gain us as an ally
so later on we fight against them."
     "That's not going to happen." Endymion turned and walked toward the castle.
Then, he turned and looked upward at the Moon. "An empire in the sky. The
Silver Imperium. It sounds more fascinating then Lumeria. If it's true...I
want to meet them!"
     Felv watched Endymion disappear through the doorway....


     Laughter filled the room as the great banquet hall was filled with
entertainers. The King and Queen had retired early and the party was now left
to the many minor nobles of Atlantis and the party's host...Prince Endymion.
     Duke Kinches sipped his wine and looked over at Endymion who appeared
thoroughly bored. "This type of party doesn't appeal to you, Prince Endymion?"
     Endymion shook his head. "I get very impatient when it comes to these type
of functions."
     Kinches smiled. "Surprisingly...so do I." He chuckled. "Let's get some air
if you don't mind."
     Endymion stood up and quickly waved his hand to the women who moved to
assist him. "I'm fine. Please tell the guards that the Duke and I are walking
the grounds and do not require protection."
     The women complied and Endymion winked at Kinches. "If we don't move fast,
my personal bodyguard will show up."
     "Yes, he did seem the untrusting sort." Kinches followed Endymion out into
the main corridor. "So, where are we going?"
     "I'll show you around if you like." Endymion pointed upward. "There are
hundreds of rooms here but, to be honest I want to go outside. I feel cooped up
right now."
     "I understand perfectly." Kinches glanced over his shoulder at the many
nobles that talked in the hallway. "It seems rather stuffy to me as well."
     The two exited the main corridor and walked through the main doors. Again
Endymion declined attention from servants and, he led the Duke down a small
hill. "There's a lake down here I like to go to. Sometimes I go fishing."
     Duke Kinches smiled. "I too like to fish sometimes. We seem to have a few
things in common. I'm only a few years older then you are I think. This world
is still new to me. It is much different from where we originally lived."
     Endymion stopped as they reached the lake and turned to him. "So, you
travelled through space...in those ships?"
     "These ships are too small, Endymion." The Duke stopped. "May I call you
Endymion?"
     "Please do." The Prince laughed. "Sometimes it's nice to just hear ones
name. You don't like being called Duke all the time do you?"
     "It does get tiresome at times." Kinches grinned and sat down on the
grass. "There is much we have to learn from each other. When we arrived on your
world, we dismantled the larger ships and used their materials to build the
central part of what is now Lumerian City. Queen Beryl also used her own powers
to help."
     "Mental powers?" Endymion gave him a blank look.
     "Your court magicians have them I am sure. Perhaps a few others. Even you
may and don't know it."
     "Do you have these mental powers?" Endymion's voice gained in excitement.
"What can you do with them?"
     "Well..." Kinches stood up. "I can do...this." He closed his eyes and
concentrated. Then slowly, he lifted off the ground.
     Endymion gasped. "You...you can fly!"
     Kinches continued to concentrate then slowly lowered himself back down. He
opened his eyes and nodded. "It takes a great deal of effort but, it can be
done. I imagine if given enough mental energy, I could fly very well. But, all
I can really do is some minor levitation."
     "Is..is it hard to learn?" Endymion's eyes reflected the light of the Moon
off the lake.
     "I could teach you. Given time, I could teach you many things. We have
been watching your people for a long time, Endymion. Queen Beryl feels that you
are a special people. Had we never arrived on your world, you would have
evolved eventually to our level. But, since we are going to be trading with
you..and learning new experiences...I see no reason why we can't show you
things that we ourselves take for granted."
     "Thank you." Endymion sighed. "Tell me about Lumeria."
     Kinches for the next hour told Endymion of his glorious nation. A people
ruled by wonderful Queen Beryl. Beryl had led the people from their dying
planet to Earth. She had supervised and worked with her skilled counselors and
her special protectors the "Ocean of Light." The "Ocean of Light" were her
specially trained warriors. As Endymion heard this, his face belied concern but,
Kinches assured him they were only for the Queen's defense. He went on to
describe fascinating technology. In addition to the ships the Lumerians used to
move around the water and even the air, ground vehicles were used. The closest
Endymion had seen to this was a wagon or one of the eastern nations chariots.
But these supposedly moved under their own power and required no horse to pull
them.
     As the night wore on, the two fell silent. Endymion was still drinking all
the knowledge in. He found Duke Kinches fascinating and, the two began to form
a strong friendship. Finally, he found himself looking upward. "I wonder what
they will be like?"
     "They?" Kinches questioned.
     "The Silver Imperium you told me about."
     "Ahh." Kinches nodded. "Yes, they are a great unknown even to us. When we
first entered your system of planets, we detected 12 planets. Only one was not
teeming with life. The others all had high technology. As we moved toward this
world, we expected resistance. Instead, there was none. But, we knew they were
watching us."
     "Why didn't you contact them?" Endymion asked.
     "We considered it. But.." Kinches shrugged. "Maybe it was the feeling that
if we let each other alone there would be no chance of any trouble."
     "I see." Endymion stood up and found a flat stone. Aiming it, he threw
watching it skip across the water. "If they do contact you, or you them, I'd
like to go see them."
     "Their main capital appears to be based on this world's moon." Kinches
pointed upward. "We found that rather strange but, who can say why they are set
up this way? They used a different language then we did so, that probably added
to the decision to leave them alone. But.." Kinches smiled. "that's going to
change. It has to. We know of their existence and now, so do your people. It's
possible they would have contacted you before us had we not come first.
Atlantis is a large continent. You have a lot of influence in this world."
     "Does Queen Beryl plan on contacting them?"
     Kinches looked at the Prince. "Why are you so infatuated with the Silver
Imperium? I know very little of them. Queen Beryl was talking with our
Spiritual Leader concerning the matter."
     "Spiritual Leader?" Endymion blinked.
     "Priestess Vindalla. She is second ruler of Lumeria. If Beryl is away or
if something happened to her, Vindalla would be in charge. You will meet her
next week when you come to visit us. I am looking forward to seeing her again."
     Endymion smiled. "Is Vindalla special to you?"
     Kinches turned away. "I haven't known you long enough to properly answer
that question, Endymion. Suffice it to say, she is very close to me. I have
feelings for her, yes."
     "Maybe things will work out for you." Endymion threw another rock. "It's
getting late but, I'm not very tired. All of this has been too exciting I
guess."
     Kinches laughed. "And it hasn't been for us? I know we are more advanced
technologically then your people but, I don't doubt there are some things you
can teach us." He looked upward at the Moon. "Just as there are things they
will be able to teach us. And we them."
     Endymion nodded. "Yes. This is going to sound very stupid but...I almost
feel drawn to even the thought of meeting them. It's like destiny perhaps."
     "Destiny can be good or bad." Kinches put a hand on his shoulder. "Do you
have someone special?"
     "Me?" Endymion laughed. "I have girls I know in the Kingdom. But.." his
voice trailed off. "No..nobody special."
     "And you ask about me and Vindalla?" Kinches shook his head. "A Prince of
a Kingdom needs to be thinking about a bride. How old are you?"
     "I'm eighteen." Endymion felt a thin smile come to his lips. "What are the
girls like in your nation?"
     Kinches laughed and put his arm around Endymion, "Well, there are so many
of them that, you will find it hard to look away. A veritable fountain of
loveliness. You will be most welcome."
     "Sounds like fun." Edymion moved away and began walking up the hill. "It's
getting late, I guess I'd better get to bed. Thank you for telling me so
much. I'll see you in the morning at breakfast. Please feel free to look
around as much as you like.."
     The Duke waved and watched Endymion go. Then, he sighed and looked up
at the moon again.

     "Silver Imperium...what are you thinking right now?"



                    Chapter Three: First Glimpse!

     "Serenity, don't you think it's time to come in? It's getting rather
late."
     Princess Serenity turned and smiled at Sailor Neptune. "Sorry. I
was..admiring the view."
     Neptune nodded. "You mean Earth? Yes, it is a most beautiful world. But
the Council meeting of the Imperium to decide the matter of contact is tomorrow
morning. You need your rest."
     Serenity sighed and took one last look at Earth before turning away and
going back inside. "Are the other Senshi coming tomorrow?"
     "Sailor Chronos arrived this evening. She was sent as a representative.
Sailor Mara and Pluto are expected tomorrow. The rest should also be here
tomorrow. All of the Imperium rulers are coming from their respective Kingdoms
except for those that have designated Senshi to be there in their stead. Myself
and Uranus will be doing that, as well as Pluto.
     "My friends that have recently become Sailors?"
     Neptune nodded. "The old Senshi have passed their torches to the new
Sailors...Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, and Venus. Their parents will be at the
meeting though. That will give you someone to spend time with while we hash
this whole thing out."
     "I want to be there too, Sailor Neptune." Serenity smiled. "I'm just now
seeing how much goes into running the Silver Imperium. If I'm to do that myself
someday, I need to know more about what goes on. I'll be attending the meeting
with my mother."
     "As you wish, Princess." Neptune bowed.
     Serenity giggled suddenly. "Why do you treat me this way? Aren't you a
princess as well?"
     "I am of my respective planet. But, you are the one that will one day rule
the Imperium. Queen Serenity has been a good person. It's a shame that King
Transil passed on."
     Serenity nodded. She tried not to think of her father that had died long
ago and left her mother and her to run the Imperium. Trying to remember how the
Imperium started was something she didn't have enough patience to pursue. It
was enough thinking of the future.
     "Sailor Neptune?"
     Neptune looked up. "Yes, Princess?"
     "Do you think meeting the Earth people will change things for us? I know
they are less advanced then us."
     Neptune shrugged. "The people of Lumeria may be more advanced then we
know. Atlantis is in a state of flux right now. They are between the stages of
primitive barbarism by our standards and, peaceful understanding. I think that
all things considered it's inevitable that we will meet. I can almost bet what
the Council vote will be."
     Serenity nodded and got ready for bed. "Thank you, Sailor Neptune. I'll
see you in the morning."
     Neptune nodded and turned to leave. "Good night, Princess." She shut the
door and left.
     After a time, Serenity sat up and realized she couldn't sleep. Thoughts of
her mother came to her and, smiling, she threw on her robe to go see her....


     Sailor Chronos pushed back her long pale hair and adjusted her sword which
hung at her side. There was a feeling of almost anticipation in the air.
A feeling of...something.
     "How long are you going to stand there?" a voice said behind her.
     Chronos turned and smiled as she saw Sailor Mara. "Hey! I thought you
weren't going to be here till tomorrow?"
     Mara grinned as she climbed the stairs to the balcony that overlooked the
courtyard. "I teleported here sooner then planned. I thought they might need me
at home but, I was told to come here early. Queen Serenity wishes to see both
of us." She smoothed her gold and white fuku as she spoke.
     "Let me guess..advice?"
     Mara nodded to her friend as they descended the stairs. "The Queen is
always ready to hear our advice. But, the matter at present is very important.
She knows that we're opposed to this."
     "At least till we know more." Chronos nodded. "Perhaps we're going to be
sent on a mission to Earth?"
     "That's my guess." Mara shrugged. "Anyway, let's go see..."

     Queen Serenity looked up as a man approached her. She sat in her room with
papers spread across the desk and with a holographic ball in the center
displaying Earth. "Yes?" she said.
     "Sailors Chronos and Mara are here to see you as requested."
     "Please send them in. And, see to it no one disturbs us." The Queen's tone
was serious.
     The man opened the door and let the two Sailors in and departed. The two
Sailors came forward and bowed to the Queen. "We are at your service, Your
Majesty." Sailor Mara said.
     Queen Serenity nodded. "Please sit down. I have called you here for an
important reason." The two sat down and, Serenity sighed. "As you know, the
Council of the Imperium meets tomorrow morning to discuss the pro's and con's
of revealing ourselves to Lumeria and Atlantis...and opening trade with both.
I already know the position of both your world's governments. Your two planets
are the only ones opposed to it. I wanted to ask you personally why you felt
that way?"
     "Us personally, Your Majesty?" Chronos asked.
     "Yes. Your opinions." The Queen nodded.
     Sailor Mara leaned back. "In my opinion...it's a risk. Lumeria we might
check out a little more but, Atlantis isn't nearly advanced enough. The culture
shock of knowing an empire such as ours exists would be..."
     "They already know." the Queen interrupted.
     Sailor Chronos stared at Sailor Mara then back at the Queen. "They know
about us, Your Highness?"
     "Yesterday afternoon, we confirmed that Lumeria went to Atlantis and
contacted them. Representatives from Lumeria have been staying there. One of
Lumeria's ships is still in their harbor. By now I am sure an alliance is
forming between them or trade agreements. Since we already suspect Lumeria
knows of us, they would not keep such knowledge from Atlantis."
     "What would you like us to do?" Mara asked.
     "I want you two to go down to Atlantis. If this is confirmed...I want you
to make contact with them."
     "An official contact?" Chronos gasped.
     "By the time you determine this, the Council will have ruled for contact.
There is almost no need for this. But, it is the proper thing to do. Since your
worlds seem to be the most opposed to it, I wanted you both to meet our
potential trading partners first. From this, you can form your own opinions.
Take this." The Queen handed Sailor Chronos a green crystal. "This is a
specially prepared message for the Atlanteans. I want you to understand that,
if our fears are groundless to not reveal yourselves."
     "That's perfectly understandable." Mara nodded. "Very well. If it appears
they have signed a full agreement with Lumeria though, you wish us to welcome
them on behalf of the Imperium?"
     "Exactly." Queen Serenity smiled. "I believe you two are well qualified
for this. Is it not what you expected?"
     Chronos looked at Mara then back at the Queen. "We weren't sure what to
expect, Your Majesty."
     "We had discussed a possible recon mission though." Mara said.
     "Spying is not a good way to enter new relations." Queen Serenity stood
up. "That is why if they are advanced enough due to Lumeria's interference in
their culture, we must reveal ourselves. That way we can perhaps convince
Lumeria to bring them along slowly. Once you have established contact, I will
visit them and Lumeria myself with my daughter."
     "Both of you??" Mara shook her head. "That's not wise, my Queen!"
     "It will show them they can trust us. We want only peace and I pray they
want the same."
     "Then we will do our best to see to it we make the proper impression."
Chronos stood up and nodded to Mara. "Let's go. We have a mission to complete.
     Queen Serenity smiled as the two Senshi bowed to her and left. She sighed
and picked up her papers and straightened them. Then, she looked at the
holographic ball which hung over the desk. She waved her hand and, the image of
Earth grew more. Faster and faster, the image changed until, it cleared to
reveal the harbor with the silver ship gently rocking. The Queen waved her hand
across the ball again and, the image changed to show two men walking on the
parapets of the castle. She zoomed in on them and noticed one wore the uniform
of Lumeria while the other seemed to have dark hair and was Atlantean. He was
dressed very well with a cape. Perhaps he was a Prince or high noble...
     The Queen watched as the Lumerian man moved away from the edge of the
parapet and closed his eyes. Then, he slowly lifted off the deck and hovered
for a moment. Serenity gasped as she saw the Atlantean close his eyes. The
Lumerian said something to him and the Prince repeated it. Then, slowly, he too
began to slowly lift off the ground.

     The Queen turned quickly as she heard a sharp cry and saw her
daughter behind her. "Serenity!" she said.
     Princess Serenity walked slowly into the room and continued to stare
at the Atlantean Prince in the ball as he experimented with this new
power.
     "Mother...who is he?"
     Queen Serenity looked at the ball and watched as the young man slowly
lowered himself. The older man with him smiled with approval and said
something to him which made him laugh. "I don't know." the Queen replied.
"But, Lumeria's influence on Atlantis is now confirmed. We have no choice
now but to reveal ourselves to them."
     Princess Serenity watched the two men with fascination. Her eyes
tracked the younger man as he laughed. She felt something stir inside her
as he held up his hand and described something. The other man nodded and
then, the young Atlantean Prince reached over and picked a strange red
flower."
     "Mother..what's that?" Serenity asked.
     "They are called "roses" on Earth." the Queen continued to watch. The
Prince asked the Lumerian something and, the man nodded. Then, the Prince
closed his eyes, waved his hand over the rose and threw it!!
     "Mother!" Serenity gasped as the rose flew from his arm and stuck
tightly into the stone wall behind him.
     Queen Serenity nodded. "They have been shown not only how to levitate
but to make use of living things...as weapons."
     "Then we're going to meet them soon?" Serenity's eyes were shining as
she continued to watch the young Atlantean Prince.
     "We have no choice now." The Queen waved her hand over the ball and
the image faded. A second later, Luna appeared in it. 
     "Queen Serenity?" her feline advisor asked.
     "Luna...have Sailor Chronos and Mara departed?"
     "No, they haven't. Is something wrong?"
     Queen Serenity sighed. "Tell them there is no need for their mission.
Instead, they will be accompanying me and the Princess to Earth tomorrow.
The Council meeting will be shorter then I anticipated. I have positive
evidence that Lumeria is changing Atlantis culture...."


     As morning fell Serenity looked at the light coming through the Council
chambers. She felt nervous. She had rarely been to Council as, her mother only
recently had asked her to try to learn more about the Imperium. Now with the
prospect of new people...things were changing.
     "Pay attention Princess!" Sailor Mars hissed.
     Serenity looked up. Sailor Mars was pointing at the man who was speaking.
He was King Sora from Venus. Serenity smiled at Sailor Venus as she watched her
father. Both her and Sailor Mars were new Senshi. The older Senshi had retired
and passed the torch down to them. Sailor Venus looked over and winked at her
friend. Serenity giggled.
     Several people glanced at her which caused Serenity to stifle her laugh.
It wasn't good to show such lack of protocol..even if you were a fifteen year
old girl. She was new to this sort of thing.
     King Sora indicated the glowing crystal that was in the center of the
chamber. "Watch now as I show this. It took place over a hundred years ago."
     The chamber fell silent as the crystal showed an image of several ships.
     "These are the Lumerians when they first arrived." Sora explained. "At the
time, we had considered hailing them. But, we detected no means of
communication. However, watch this..."
     The fleet of ships at this point changed direction in almost perfect
synchronization...
     "If you notice here.." Sora pointed at the ships, "it's almost as if they
knew what to do. We found no evidence of them detecting our defenses. Yet,
their approach takes them the far way around past the orbit of both Chronos and
Mara. Now, we could have easily attacked them if we felt they were a threat.
Instead, they simply continued onto Earth..."
     Queen Serenity nodded. "So, they knew of our defensive area of influence
somehow. They must have detected the energy from the two planets which creates
the inner grid."
     "Perhaps." Sora looked at everyone. "Venus position on this is, if they
were able to do that before they ever reached Earth and, they are influencing
Atlantis now...what will they be like if we don't contact them?"
     "I see your point." King Holar stood up. Sailor Mars smiled at her father.
She could see her mother, Queen Tirsi..the former Sailor Mars watching him.
     "If we wait too long, they will perhaps fear us as a threat." Holar
continued. "It's good sense to contact them now."
     "Agreed." King Bolva of Jupiter nodded. "I vote that we send a contact
party at once to Atlantis. After that, we can go to Lumeria. Both continents
must be contacted and made to understand, the Silver Imperium is not a threat
to them."
     Queen Serenity nodded. "King Mosel? What are your thoughts?"
     "I agree with contact. And, it must be done soon." King Mosel smiled at
his daughter, Sailor Mercury. Mercury grinned and winked at Princess Serenity.
     Serenity looked at Sailor Jupiter. She too looked excited.
    Queen Serenity turned to the group of Sailor Senshi that sat near the end
of the council chambers.
     "Outer Senshi...how did you vote?"
     Sailor Uranus stood up. "We vote for contact. But...with great caution.
This is not a situation where we know it is safe. We must stand ready should
something go wrong."
     "I agree." Sailor Neptune added. She smiled at Uranus and squeezed her
hand. The relationship of the two was well known in the Imperium and everyone
respected them. They were two of the best Sailor Senshi.
     "Sailor Pluto who guards the Gateway has already told me her vote for
Pluto." Queen Serenity sighed. "Sailors Chronos and Mara voted against contact.
Is that vote the same?"
     Chronos and Mara stood up. Chronos looked at her then nodded. "As the two
inner defense planets, it's our duty to protect the very heart of the Imperium.
If contact is made, we recommend only limited access to our culture. At least
until we are sure they are true friends."
     Queen Serenity turned toward a man at her side. "What does the Minister
of Defense say to this?"
     Minister Devol stood up. "It's true that we are on the threshold of a
great unknown. Long ago the Imperium was formed and we set up a great empire
that has been peaceful for thousands of years. The advancement of Lumeria in
contacting Atlantis and moving their technology forward tends to threaten that
peace. We don't know what Lumeria's goals are. By making contact, we can
plainly be involved in the process and help nurture Atlantis toward being a
peaceful society. At the same time, we can work with Lumeria and hopefully
convince them not to move ahead too quickly. Contact is extremely important at
this time. Although I can see everyone's fears, there is also great hope. The
inner defense worlds are naturally concerned. But, as Minister of Defense, I
would like all Sailor Senshi and the standard military to look on this as not a
threat but, a new beginning. If it turns out things look dangerous, we can
easily raise our defenses or attack if necessary. I have every confidence the
Sailor Senshi can defeat any possible threat."
     King Holar nodded. "That about covers it, I think."
     Queen Serenity looked at everyone. "Very well. All in favor?"
     "AYE!" the room echoed.
     Serenity looked at Mara and Chronos. "Opposed?"
     "You know our position." Mara said quietly.
     The Queen smiled. "And I trust your judgement. It appears that the
vote to make contact and establish normal trade and possible alliance
negotiations with Lumeria and Atlantis is passed. Atlantis will be the
first nation contacted. I will lead the contact party.."
     "YOUR MAJESTY!!!"
     "QUEEN SERENITY!!!"
     The shouts echoed throughout the chamber. Serenity put up her hand
silencing them. "This is an important contact. They need to know how
serious our intentions are. I will be taking Princess Serenity with me.
For guards, I will be taking Sailors Chronos and Mara."
     "Allow us to come as well." Sailor Uranus said.
     Queen Serenity shook her head. "Perhaps another time. This will be
our first glimpse into Earth society. Up until now, we have watched from a
distance and only had a "retreat" in the northern continent. While I
negotiate with the two nations, Minister Alcon will be in charge. Please
prepare your respective Kingdoms should we need it."
     All the planet rulers nodded.
     "Serenity..." The Queen looked at her daughter smiling.
     Princess Serenity stood up feeling the excitement in the air. The
image of the young Atlantean was still fresh in her mind...
     "We must dress well to represent the Imperium. I will meet you in the
central courtyard in one hour. Wear your best white dress."
     "Yes, Mother." Princess Serenity smiled excitedly at her friends.
     The meeting was adjourned and Serenity moved excitedly through the
crowd receiving hugs from her friends.
     Sailor Mercury smiled. "Congratulations Serenity! Tell us all about
what Atlantis is like when you get back okay?"
     "I will." Serenity blushed feeling something stir in her.
     "Keep your mind on what's important." Sailor Mars said. "Your
representing the entire Imperium remember?"
     "I know. But, I get so excited that..."
     "You'll do fine." Sailor Jupiter hugged her. "Good luck."
     Sailor Venus came up. "Hey, when you get back, we have a late birthday
present for you. We'd planned a party but..."
     "HEY!" Sailor Mars glared at her. "It was supposed to be a surprise! Way
to go Venus!"
     Sailor Venus blushed. "Opps! I..I guess I forgot in all this excitement."
     Serenity giggled and hugged them all one more time. She moved quickly
to her room and changed eagarly. Brushing her hair, she could see Earth in
the mirror glass behind her. She stepped back and spun around excitedly
watching her long white dress fly outward. She giggled and put her long
hair into the familiar balls on her head and the long pigtails that flowed
down her back.
     "I'm going." she whispered excitedly. "I'm finally going." Her mind
went back to the image of the young Atlantean she had seen in the
holograph..
     "I'll be meeting you soon..." she whispered....    


                      Chapter Four: New Things!

     "Now that's a beautiful sight, isn't it?"
     Endymion turned and saw Duke Kinches behind him. "What are you referring
to?"
     "The children playing below. It represents a renewal of life."
     "Don't you have children in Lumeria?" Endymion asked in surprise.
     "Sadly, no." Kinches turned away. "I can't go into why. But, we are
extremely long lived. Because of that, Queen Beryl used her power so that none
would be born."
     "NONE?" Endymion gasped. "But..but that's..insane. How do you continue your
race if..."
     "As I said..we are extremely long lived, Endymion. When we have known each
other longer, perhaps I will explain that. We have no need of children. But,
I'm glad to see your people are expanding..growing..and learning new things. Us
contacting you will change your way of life. I hope you are all ready for
that."
     Endymion was still trying to comprehend a race without children. It made no
sense. How did they survive? They'd have to be thousands of years old to have
no children and not lost anyone! "Change..is good." he said quietly.
     "I see from your voice you are disturbed by this unknown development."
Kinches smiled.
     "I..I didn't expect it. I guess I will have to get used to a lot of
unexpected things from now on. I'm looking forward to seeing your nation."
     Kinches turned away and looked out over the field. "You don't have much in
the way of defense here. Maybe we can change that soon."
     Endymion looked at him. "Until we encountered your people, there was no
fear of it. But now..." his tone was serious, "you sound like you think we need
it. We have a strong army and an excellent navy."
     "But not much in the way of magic and science." Kinches turned to him.
"Don't get me wrong. I am not criticizing your people. I am seeing as a General
the holes in Atlantis defenses."
     "You're a General?" Endymion sounded surprised again.
     "I am a diplomat, a noble, and a General. I am the personal adviser of
Vindalla and I work directly with her and General Jedite. Jedite is the advisor
of Queen Beryl. You have to understand, we came here to help you. We came to
accept you as our allies if you would have us. This means we will be sharing
with you knowledge of which you have scarcely thought existed. We will be
upgrading your military..showing you new things. Teaching you about your mind."
     "Our minds?" Endymion stepped back.
     "Observe." Kinches said. He closed his eyes and began to rise off the
ground. He opened them still floating. "Your mind must be free and open. You
must look into your inner self. You must believe that you have the power to do
this. Above all else, you must feel that power within you and bring it forth.
Now...you try."
     Endymion laughed. "I can't do that. I'm not even sure how to start!"
     "Then you never will succeed, Endymion." Kinches lowered himself. "I cannot
teach you nor your people if you have the attitude that it isn't possible. That
is the first thing you must throw away. All things are possible. The mind is
limitless. Once you know how to tap that energy, you can do incredible feats.
You can jump higher..levitate...run faster. All these things are tied into the
mind. Most humans on this planet I would not waste my time even trying to
teach. But, you are different. I sensed it when I met you. I feel we can be
close friends and therefore, I'm willing to share all I know with you. Do you
believe what I am saying?"
     Endymion nodded. "Yes...I do."
     "Then believe in me, and in yourself. Your race is on the threshold of a
new beginning. We are going to take Atlantis to new heights. To some, this may
seem very frightening. But, it is all a part of advancement. I've already
signed the proper documents on behalf of Queen Beryl with your father. Once you
have visited Lumeria, we will begin in earnest to teach your people an
incredible new way of life. At the same time, you will be teaching us about
your culture. The key is to maintain the best of both so neither culture is
swallowed up by the other. You must maintain your traditions and values and
therefore keep your identity."
     "I see." Endymion smiled. "You really do care about us don't you?"
     "I care about keeping a strong bond. This is done through trust and
understanding." Kinches nodded. "Now then...open your mind...look within..and
reach that which is yourself. Ignore all doubts. Imagine yourself with no
weight..no worries. Once you have mastered this skill, you will be able to do
this without even thinking."
     Endymion closed his eyes. Then he concentrated reaching deep into himself.
Somewhere he felt something he hadn't before. "I feel it." he whispered.
     "Now...lift yourself." Kinches whispered.
     Endymion felt the wind blow gently around him as he imagined himself
floating. Then, he felt as if his feet were leaving the ground. He heard a
satisfied sigh from Kinches. Cautiously he opened his eyes and looked down.
     "Don't lose your concentration!" Kinches warned.
     Endymion gasped as he saw he was five feet hovering off the ground!
"This..is.."
     "Keep your concentration!" Kinches repeated. "Leave all doubt aside!
You've already seen you can do it! I knew you could, you just had to believe it
yourself."
     Endymion continued to hold the concentration but felt a sudden fear. Slowly
he lowered to the ground. "I...I think I lost it."
     "No...you just...feared." Kinches nodded to the flowers. "Take a rose from
there."
     Endymion walked over. He plucked a rose and turned back. "Now?"
     "Wave your hand over it. That rose can become a weapon. Believe it."
     Endymion nodded and concentrated on the rose. He waved his hand over it
and, it seemed to harden..alter form. It was the same rose and yet, it wasn't.
The end was sharp!
     Suddenly, Endymion turned to the wall behind him and threw the rose hard.
It flew with incredible speed and hit the stone wall digging deep into it!
     Endymion grinned and took a step back. "I did it!"
     "Of course you did. You have that strength within you." Kinches slapped a
hand on his shoulder. "Come on, let's get something to eat. It's been a busy
morning and, we will be leaving in a few days for Lumeria. I want to see more
of your country."
     "I'll be glad to show you after breakfast." Endymion shook his head. "It's
incredible what you have shown me in such a brief time. I'm anxious to learn
all I can."
     "Queen Beryl will have much to tell you when you meet her." Kinches
replied. "I have to meet with your father this afternoon. Also, I will need to
check in with General Aubel..."
     "I understand." Endymion turned when suddenly, Kinches froze. He looked at
the Duke puzzled. "What..what is it?"
     Almost instantly, a small bubble formed in the air in front of them
floating over the stairs. An image appeared. Endymion saw it was the same woman
that was on the ship.
     "General Aubel?" Kinches said.
     "Queen Beryl has contacted us!" Aubel said quickly. "She's received a
message...from the Silver Imperium!"
     Endymion stared at the ball then back at Kinches. He swallowed. "The Silver
Imperium..they are...coming?"
     Aubel nodded. "Yes. They are going to be arriving within the hour...at
your location."
     Kinches looked at Endymion. "So it's come. I knew it would soon." he turned
back to General Aubel. "We don't know what to expect. What are Queen Beryl's
orders?"
     "To invite them to come to Lumeria with us. And for you to be the first
noble to welcome them."
     Kinches sighed. "Very well. I'll see you soon. Have the soldiers onboard
stand by but, do not make any hostile moves. Take only defensive measures till
we know what we are dealing with."
     "Understood Sir." Aubel's bubble faded out...
     Kinches smiled at Endymion. "You'll be getting your wish soon."
     "My wish?"
     "To meet the Silver Imperium. And perhaps...your destiny?"
     Endymion felt something he didn't understand stir within him. He nodded.
"Let's go eat. An hour isn't a long time. I wonder if my parents know of this?"

     Endymion found as they returned that a similar message had appeared in the
middle of the Main Hall. It had startled several people seeing a glowing ball
and a woman appeared in the middle. King Edicor described the woman as very
beautiful with a golden crown..and that she had identified herself as Queen
Serenity. When the message ended, the King had ordered complete preparations
made for visiting dignitaries. He made his apologies to Duke Kinches who
confirmed that a similar message had appeared on Lumeria. Kinches moved away
from the activity that was going on and looked across the sea...
     "And so...change is now inevitable. Will we be able to live together in
peace? For our sakes...I hope so.." his whisper died as the wind picked up
again...



                          Chapter Five:Contact!

     Sailors Chronos and Mara looked up as they stood in the courtyard and saw
Princess Serenity coming down the path toward them. She was dressed in a long
flowing white dress with gold trim and golden sandals adorned her feet. Beside
her, her mother, Queen Serenity walked. She was dressed in a long silver dress
and silver sandals. In her right hand she held a golden pouch which contained
documents. The Silver Imperium's overtures and trade agreements with the two
nations....
     Queen Serenity turned to Sailor Chronos. "Was the message sent out ahead
of us?"
     "Yes, Queen Serenity." 
     "Thank you." Queen Serenity looked at the huge assemblage that stood
watching them. "I want to thank you all for your support in this effort.
Hopefully if an alliance is formed with the two Earth nations and regular trade
is established, certain attitudes toward Earth may one day change as well."
     Princess Serenity glanced up at her mother wondering what she had meant by
that statement. She noticed Sailors Chronos and Mara look down then at each
other. Their eyes met and they seemed to exchange some sort of secret.
     Queen Serenity nodded. "It is time..."
     The two Sailors, the Queen, and Princess, stepped into a circle. Princess
Serenity could feel the excitement in the air. Suddenly, she saw Science
Minister Alcon watching. "Wait a minute!" she said. She ran to him and threw
herself in his arms.
     Alcon laughed and hugged her back. He pulled away grinning. "So, you're
finally getting your wish, young Princess. I'm so happy for you. Happy
birthday."
     "Thank you Alcon." Serenity hugged him again. "I'll tell you all about
Earth when I get back."
     "Good luck to you and your mother." He looked up and nodded to Queen
Serenity who stood watching. Princess Serenity kissed him on the cheek and went
back to join her mother.
     "Queen Serenity!"
     The Queen looked over her shoulder and saw the Outer Senshi standing
together. "Sailor Uranus?"
     Sailor Uranus looked at Sailor Neptune then stepped forward. "Your
Majesty, we Senshi would feel much more secure with your safety of there were
more of us with you. Sailor Neptune and I volunteer."
     Queen Serenity smiled and shook her head. "I thank you all for your
concern but, I don't think it's necessary. I would not be taking my daughter if
I felt there were any danger. Sailors Chronos and Mara are quite capable should
I need any help."
     Sailor Uranus looked at the others and they all bowed. Queen Serenity
looked at the two Senshi on either side of her. Sailors Chronos and Mara began
to glow along with the Queen and Princess.
     "SAILOR.....TELEPORT!!!!"
    There was a sudden flash and the four vanished.....


     Felv shook his head as he continued to watch the flurry of activity. Ever
since the Imperium Queen's message had appeared, the castle had become a
madhouse! People had turned the Main Hall into a diplomacy discussion area. The
ballroom was being decorated with bright colors and stars..in honor of the
Imperium Queen.
     "Does all this trouble you? a voice said.
     Felv turned in annoyance and saw Duke Kinches behind him. "Oh..it's you."
     "I take it by your tone that, you don't like me?" Kinches grinned at Felv.
     "I don't trust anyone until I know their true intentions." 
     "But, I've been alone with the Prince several times. Aren't you his
bodyguard?"
     "I've had you watched." Felv responded. He patted the hilt of his sword.
"I know what you've been teaching him. So far, I've chosen not to intervene."
     "If you saw all that, surely you must know we wish to help your people."
Kinches smiled.
     "Your magic tricks don't impress me." Felv glared at Kinches. "I don't
trust you until I see more evidence your friends. And I trust the idea of this
huge empire from the blackness even less!"
     "It was inevitable." Kinches shook his head. "You can't stay in a
primitive society forever and..."
     "PRIMITIVE???" Felv shouted. He reached back and began to draw his
sword...
     "FELV!!!"
     Felv looked to his right and saw Prince Endymion coming toward him. "Lord
Prince...excuse me.." Felv bowed and stepped aside.
     Endymion watched him move to a corner but, his eyes remained watching
Kinches. The Duke shook his head. "Your friend doesn't like me. He's afraid of
change I think."
     "He's just concerned for my well being. It's his job." Endymion sighed.
     Kinches noticed his face was flushed. "Are you nervous?"
     "I...I guess so." Endymion straightened his collar. "I wanted to meet the
Imperium but, I didn't expect it to be so soon. My parents are turning this
place inside out." 
     Kinches laughed. "Yes, I saw that. I think the Imperium is getting a
better reception then we did. But no matter. If you're ready, it's almost time
for them to arrive..."
     The two men left the castle and moved to the courtyard area in front. On
their right, the military was assembled. On the left, all or most of the castle
nobles. In the center, King Edicor and Queen Karlel waited.
     Endymion grinned. "This looks familiar. We did this a few days ago."
     "This looks very impressive." Kinches grinned. "I must properly represent
my people as well. Let's join your parents."
     King Edicor looked as he saw the two approaching. He was about to say
something when suddenly, a bright glow began to appear in the center of the
assemblage. Then it turned into a large pink ball and, in the center, Endymion
could see four women. As the color began to disipate, he could see two that
were dressed in short skirts that looked like uniforms. One wore black and
white with silver trim and a large bow of silver. At her side hung a large
sword. Her hair was pale in color and a silver tiara was on her forehead.
Across from her, the other woman wore a gold and white skirt with a red bow and
she held a small staff with a red symbol on it. Endymion was fascinated. Both
wore boots. Then...his eyes grew wide as they fell upon the other two...
     The older woman wearing a long silver dress and carrying a pouch was
impressive herself. Her hair was white and hung down her back in long pigtails.
But, the younger girl next to her....Endymion felt his heart stop and he sucked
his breath inward.
     The girl had been watching the crowd when, her eyes fell on him. For a
moment she gasped in surprise then, she smiled. 
     Duke Kinches looked at her then at Endymion. "Do you know her?" he asked.
     "I...I don't..think so. But...I feel something." Endymion stammered.
     The older woman scanned the crowd and saw the King and Queen across from
her. She bowed once and the other women followed suit. Then, she came forward
with the younger one beside her and, the two others flanking her.
     "Greetings.." she said to the King and Queen. "I am Queen Serenity. I am
the ruler of the Silver Imperium. We are most honored to meet you."
     King Edicor looked nervous then, he smiled. "You are most welcome here,
Queen Serenity. I am King Edicor..ruler of Atlantis. This is my wife, Queen
Karlel." He looked at Endymion. "This is my son..Prince Endymion."
     Endymion noticed the younger woman smiling at him. He felt something stir
inside him that made his heart leap! Slowly he stepped forward watching as her
blue eyes tracked him. He stopped in front of them.
     "It..it is wonderful to meet you." he said.
     Queen Serenity nodded. "This is my daughter..Princess Serenity. And, these
other two are my personal guardians, Sailor Chronos, and Sailor Mara."
     The two bowed respectfully. Endymion swallowed still looking into the eyes
of Princess Serenity. He felt as if for a moment they were frozen in time
together. Duke Kinches looked at him amused. He stepped forward. "It's good to
finally meet representatives from the Silver Imperium." He saw the Imperium
Queen look at him. He bowed. "I am Duke Kinches. I was sent here from Lumeria
by Queen Beryl. I am authorized at this time to discuss full diplomatic
relations with you."
     "Excellent...and thank you, Duke." Queen Serenity nodded to King Edicor.
"On behalf of the Silver Imperium, I am here to discuss relations with your
people and also that of Lumeria. We hope this day will form a strong and
everlasting bond between our three nations."
     King Edicor grinned. "Most gracious, Queen Serenity. We've prepared a
place for you and your party to stay. We also have set up a diplomatic area so
that we may discuss the benefits of trade and possible alliance immediately."
     The Queen nodded and Duke Kinches began to follow her. He noticed Endymion
still looking at Princess Serenity.
     "Please wait, Your Majesties." he said.
     They all looked at him. He smiled. "I think that it would be good if
Prince Endymion showed Princess Serenity around while we have our talk. Young
people become bored rather quickly with such matters."
     Queen Serenity looked at her daughter who seemed to be blushing. She
smiled. "That is acceptable. Thank you, Prince Endymion."
     Endymion nodded nervously then watched them go. The two Senshi warriors
looked at him momentarily then followed...
     As the crowd began to break up, he turned and saw the Princess was looking
at the ocean. "Have you seen an ocean before?" he asked.
     "Yes." she replied. His heart leaped for some unknown reason as he heard
her sweet voice. "We have one on the Moon. But, it's different then Earth I
think." She looked at him and blushed slightly.
     "Uhmm.." Endymion felt awkward. "What would you like to see while you're
here visiting?"
     Serenity walked past him over the grass and down the hill. The wind blew
her golden hair and white dress gently. "I want to see everything." she said.
     Endymion felt a lump in his throat. His heart was beating faster and he
felt warm inside. It was a good feeling he had never before experienced. "I'll
get us a carriage and show you the country." he grinned.
     After taking Serenity to the stable, Endymion had a carriage prepared and
for the next several hours took her all over the area. He showed her the
towns..the lakes..the beautiful forests. She drunk it all in laughing and
speaking freely. He told her all he knew of his country and she of the Moon.
His eyes grew in wonder at her stories of the colors and beauty of not only the
Moon but all the other planets in the Imperium.
     Endymion sighed. "I want to visit your Imperium."
     She nodded. "You will. Someday soon. As soon as I saw you,I wanted to
visit you and..."
     "Visit me when you saw me?" he asked in surprise.
     She turned red and turned away. "I...I meant when I first saw you when we
came here...I...I wanted to meet you."
     "I see." He grinned and continued on....
     As evening fell, the two returned to the castle. A dinner was planned and
King Edicor declared the day a national holiday of peace. Endymion noticed Duke
Kinches who had recently spent a lot of time with him was maintaining his
distance...almost as if he were encouraging Endymion's being with the Princess..
     After dinner, a dance followed. The two danced and Endymion felt like he
never wanted to let her go. The Princess leaned against him and, she sighed
deeply. Later on as the dance continued, he led her outside onto the lawn and
down the hill.
     The two stopped at the nearby lake that Endymion and Kinches had been at
only a few days before. Serenity looked up at the Moon. "So far away. And yet,
it's part of Earth."
     She sat down on a large rock and Endymion sat next to her.
"I...Princess..this is...rather..difficult.."
     "Difficult?" she looked at him.
     "I can't explain this feeling I have. It's been with me all day. A
happiness that I've never felt before."
     She smiled and looked at the water. "I too have felt it...Endymion."
     He noticed she had used his name without the title for the first time. He
swallowed and looked into her eyes. "I...I have a lot of feeling for you. I
know this doesn't make any sense because, we've only met today."
     "I know." she whispered. We're from two different worlds..yet, why do I
feel so close to you?"
     "I...I don't know..." his words faltered and he felt himself being drawn
closer to her. Her face was aglow now with an inner light he couldn't
comprehend. The moonlight shone down on them illuminating her eyes.
     "I...I think...I'm in love with you..." he whispered.
     "This is...going too fast." she replied. "I hardly know you. But, I don't
want it to end...Endymion." Her lips were close to his now as they whispered to
each other.
     "I...I'm in love with you." he whispered back. "I love you."
     She smiled. "This doesn't make any sense but...I feel I love you too. But,
I'm from the Imperium..."
     "I'm from Atlantis." he answered. "And it doesn't matter to me. I love
you."
     "I...love you too." she moved closer and the two suddenly joined in a
passionate kiss. He held her closer feeling her love as the wind blew softly in
the night. "I don't ever want to let you go..."
     They kissed again feeling their passion ignite...ignoring all fears of
what it might entail.....


     The morning light came through the window and, Endymion blinked feeling
the heat from the sun on his face. He turned over and opened his eyes fully
remembering the night before with a smile. He stood and walked to the window
rubbing his eyes. Down below on the shoreline he could see a figure with long
blonde pigtails and a white dress walking barefoot in the sand. He grinned and
moved quickly to dress. His heart was full feeling his love for her.
     A knock sounded at his door. Endymion looked up and moved to answer it. As
he opened the door he stepped back in surprise as he saw one of the Sailor
Senshi at his door. It was the one in gold and white. She held her staff in her
right hand. "Good morning Prince." she said. She brushed her brown hair aside
and locked eyes with him. "I would speak with you if you have the time."
     Endymion looked back at the window anxious to see Serenity. He nodded and
let the Senshi in. "Please..sit down." He indicated the chair next to him.
     The Senshi sat down. "I am Sailor Mara. It is my duty to protect the
Silver Imperium. I came here to ask you to do something."
     "Do something?"
     Sailor Mara nodded as Endymion sat down. "With all due respect
Prince...stay away from Princess Serenity. It's good to be friends but, take it
no further!"
     Endymion stared at her stunned. "Wha...what?"
     "You heard me, Lord Prince. Princess Serenity is very special. I don't
want her hurt."
     "I...I would never hurt her!" Endymion gasped.
     "I intend to make sure you don't get the chance." Mara stood up and looked
down at him. "I am pleased our nations will be getting to know each other. But,
don't push it too far. She is not for you."
     "I love her!" Endymion stood up. "I've never felt that way about anyone!"
     "Nice words." Mara responded. She looked at her staff a moment. "Don't
strain our new friendship, please. I'm not very sure the Queen would approve of
what went on last night."
     "You..you saw?" Endymion swallowed.
     "Let us just say that, if it had gone much farther, myself and Sailor
Chronos would have been there very rapidly. As it was, you chose wisely to come
inside when you did." Mara turned and moved toward the door. "Please do as I
ask so there is no more strain between our two nations."
     As she opened the door, Endymion glared at her. "She is her own person! She
has the right to choose who she wishes!"
     Sailor Mara turned back. "I was hoping you would be reasonable. Now, I'm
going to tell you in a way you will listen." She moved forward till she was
directly in front of him. She lifted her staff until the tip of it was under
his chin. Her brown eyes stared at him. "Leave....her...alone!" Mara's eyes
flashed. Endymion swallowed feeling a sudden fear. Mara nodded once then left
and shut the door behind her....


    "Princess Serenity...may I speak with you?"
     Serenity hopped over a tidepool and turned to see Sailor Chronos watching
her. "Sailor Chronos! Look how nice it is here! The sun is so warm on my back!
I feel light as a feather!" She giggled and spun around.
     "Princess...please...may I speak with you?"
     Serenity nodded and sat down on a rock. The sound of sea birds filled the
air as the tide crashed on the shore. Serenity looked up at the Senshi smiling.
"What did you want to talk about?"
     Chronos looked away for a moment out over the sea. Her pale hair flew in
the wind behind her. "This is...very difficult for me. But, I want you to
understand the seriousness of it. I doubt it's something you would know."
     Serenity nodded. Chronos looked at her. "A long time ago.." she began, "in
a small country far far east of here there was a common man from the Imperium
who met a girl and fell in love."
     "What?" Serenity looked up. "But..but mother said that this was our first
visit here!"
     "She has kept this to herself...as have most of the nobility of Chronos.
It is not common knowledge and, I would not be telling you unless I felt that
situation was about to be repeated. If attitudes were different...I would not
be talking to you right now."
     Serenity nodded. "So...who were these people in that country?"
     "My parents." Chronos whispered. Her answer was barely audible above the
crash of the surf on the shore.
     "I..I see." Serenity smiled. "But, why would you..."
     "Please...let me finish." Chronos looked away. "My father was a mere
citizen. He was curious about Earth. He watched it through his telescope every
night. Then one day..he went there."
     "Without permission? Serenity gasped.
     "Yes. That alone would have caused a stir up in things. But then...he met
the woman who became my mother. He fell in love with her and, he brought her
with him back to the Imperium. It caused an uproar on Chronos that was hard to
cover...but they did. Queen Serenity knew but, no one else. I have only shared
this information with Sailor Mara..and now you."
     Serenity looked at the sand. "So...why?"
     "The government of Chronos was going to exile them." Chronos gripped the
handle of her sword. "But, the former Sailor Chronos...she stepped in and
suggested something. They would give up their daughter to be the next Sailor
Chronos and in exchange they were allowed to remain."
     Serenity sighed. "You...it was you..wasn't it?"
     "Of course." Chronos looked at her. "My father was a mere citizen. But,
you would cause an even greater shake-up. If enough people didn't like what
they saw....it would split the Imperium. My..." Chronos closed her eyes then
opened them looking determined. "My duty as a Senshi is to protect the
Imperium. Yours is to one day rule it. However, a ruler cannot control a split
empire. Nor can you force certain attitudes to change overnight. Do you
understand what I am saying?"
     Chronos serious tone made Serenity feel a great aching in her heart.
"You're...you're talking about...Endymion."
     "Prince Endymion...is from Atlantis. Please for your own sake..and
ours..let it go no further."
     Serenity felt tears coming. She bowed her head and nodded. "I..I
understand. But..." She looked up at Chronos. "BUT I LOVE HIM!" she shouted.
     Her voice was mixed with the crash of the surf as it hit the shore.
     "Perhaps someday, things may change. But for now...I must insist that you
be only friends with him." Chronos sighed. "Neither Sailor Mara nor I have
talked to the Queen about this. We want it to end here...now. Before it turns
into an uproar that threatens all our nations." 
     "I..I'll tell..Endymion." Serenity whispered.
     "Sailor Mara is letting him know. I would ask that you spend no more time
alone with him. This feeling will pass in time."
     "I...I don't know about that." Serenity stood up and walked down the
shoreline. The wind blew through her hair and, Chronos could hear her sobbing
over the waves.....


     "It appears that our nations have an agreement then." King Edicor shook
hands with Queen Serenity and then turned to Duke Kinches. "I look forward to a
prosperous relationship."
     Kinches shook hands and nodded. "As do I." He turned to the Queen. "Queen
Serenity, thank you for coming. We had hoped to establish contact soon. Are you
coming to Lumeria with us?"
     "Yes, I am." The Queen glanced past him and saw her daughter standing
quietly. For some reason, all her happiness of the previous day seemed muted
somehow. She looked at Prince Endymion and noticed he too was quiet. She sighed.
"I look forward to meeting Queen Beryl. If you'll excuse me, I have to rest for
a bit."
     "Of course." The two men bowed to her and, she left.
     Kinches nodded. "It's a good beginning. I think it will go just as well in
Lumeria."
     Edicor turned to his son and saw Endymion was watching Princess Serenity.
She had wandered onto the lawn and was walking down the hill. "Endymion?"
     Prince Endymion turned quickly. "Yes, father?"
     "Are you packed and ready to leave for Lumeria tomorrow?"
     "Yes..." Endymion looked back at Serenity. Duke Kinches grinned. King
Edicor stepped forward.
     "Endymion..what has gotten into you? Look at me!"
     Endymion glanced up. "Oh...sorry father. I was..preoccupied."
     "So I see." The King shook his head. "There will be time for idle thoughts
of youth later. Tomorrow, you have an important mission. I want you to review
our treaties and be ready to answer any questions that Queen Beryl asks."
     "Yes Father." Endymion's voice was vacant.
     "Hmmph!" Edicor shook his head and walked off.
     Kinches looked at Endymion who's back faced him. "I haven't seen it this
bad in years."
     "It?" Endymion answered.
     "Love." Kinches smiled and stepped forward. "Not since a certain Major
fell for a Priestess in training."
     Endymion sighed. "I...don't know what to do."
     Kinches put a hand on his shoulder. "Do what you feel is right. Follow
your heart."
     "If I do that, it may destroy this fledgling alliance!" Endymion glared at
him. "I can't do that!"
     "Do you love her? Stupid question I know...I can see it."
     "More then I've loved anything. It's insane. I only met her yesterday.
Just being apart from her tears me up inside."
     "Then why be apart?" Kinches looked at Serenity who was walking in the
distance. "Does she love you just as much?"
     "I..I don't know." Endymion grit his teeth and looked down. "Her beauty is
like...nothing I've ever encountered! I...I think she does.."
     "If you don't know...you need to confirm that." 
     "But how can I? If I go near her, those Sailor Senshi will be all over
me!"
     "True love is not conquered by mere interferences. If you're truly a man,
seek her out and find out her true feelings. Accept nothing less, Endymion."
     "What about you and Vindalla?" Endymion asked. "You seem to indicate you
love her and yet..."
     "That situation...is entirely different. When she changes, I will take her
in a second! I am not with her because, she has not chosen it. She has...other
concerns."
     "Then, she must not really love you." Endymion sighed.
     "She loves everyone." Kinches looked at him. "But, it's a love that is
filled from within. It's a deeper love I can't begin to understand that goes
beyond the physical aspects. When you meet her, you'll understand better."
     Endymion balled his hands into fists and looked up at Serenity. "I can't
get her out of my heart. I love her too much."
     "Remember I spoke of destiny?" Kinches smiled. "Perhaps there was a reason
you felt something that night we spoke and you looked at the moon. Perhaps..she
is your destiny. Endymion...don't let anything stop you. Not fears of destroying
an alliance..or the wrath of Sailor Senshi."
     Endymion nodded and ran forward. He ran hard across the grass toward where
he had seen Serenity walk. As he came down the hill he saw her by the lake. As
he closed the distance, he gasped as someone slammed him to the ground!
     Shaking his head, he looked up and saw Sailor Mara.
     "I warned you Prince. Didn't you listen?"
     "LET ME GO TO HER!" Endymion shouted.
     Serenity looked up and gasped. "ENDYMION!!!"
     Mara looked quickly at her. "Princess...please...go join your mother."
     Serenity hesitated. Endymion stood up. "I LOVE YOU SERENITY! I WON'T GIVE
YOU UP!!!" I DON'T CARE WHAT ANYONE SAYS!!!"
     Mara glared at him. "You don't care if your actions destroy a nation?"
     "Things will work out." Endymion answered. He drew his sword in one swift
stroke and faced Mara. "I'm going to see her. Get out of my way!"
     Mara glared at him then, her look softened. "Did you hear nothing that I
said to you this morning?"
     "DON'T HURT HIM!!" Serenity shouted.
     Mara shook her head and sighed. "Fools...this is..." She looked at
Serenity. "I will have to inform your mother of this now. I see Chronos and I
can't do anymore."
     Endymion smiled and ran past Sailor Mara. Serenity ran to him and, the two
fell into each others arms....
     Sailor Chronos stepped out of the trees and sighed. "I wonder if my
parents were as passionate when they met?"
     Sailor Mara nodded. "It happened so fast. Too fast perhaps. Maybe it is
destiny after all."
     "We have to inform Queen Serenity." Chronos smiled. "But if it does work
out...it will heal a lot of feelings. Especially on Chronos."
     Sailor Mara nodded and the two walked off together.
     
     "Don't let me go." Serenity sobbed in Endymion's arms. "I love you. I don't
want to be without you."
     "I was dying inside." he whispered. "The thought of never being with you.
This..this fire. The passion is consuming me." He kissed her deeply. As he
broke the kiss, he hugged her close to him. "I won't ever part from you. Before
I do that, I'll die first. I'll make you my wife. We'll be King and Queen of a
new empire!"
     "Yes," she whispered. "A joining between the Silver Imperium..and Earth!"
     
     

                         Chapter Six: Love Pains!

     Queen Serenity looked out the window and watched as she saw the two fall
together...her daughter..and this Atlantean Prince. She sighed and turned away
sitting down heavily. Taking her hand, she waved it in the air and, a
holographic ball formed. "Luna." she said.
     The ball flickered for a moment and, two cats appeared..Luna and Artemis.
"Yes Queen Serenity?"
     "How are things in the Imperium?"
     "Going just fine." Artemis said. "Everyone is celebrating your successful
mission to Earth. Congratulations." Both cats smiled.
     Queen Serenity sighed. "Perhaps...not very successful."
     The image of the two cats looked at each other then back at the Queen.
"But..your report said..."
     "This is not in the report." Serenity looked at her feet. "Princess
Serenity has fallen in love...with an Earth man."
     "WHAT??" The two shouted in unison. 
     Queen Serenity looked up. "Please do not tell anyone of this. It is a
matter I must deal with but, I wanted both your advice. You know how much I
value it."
     "An Earth man?" Luna swallowed.
     "Yes. An Atlantean Prince. Prince Endymion."
     "Well...at least it's a Prince.." Artemis began.."
     "OH SHUT UP!" Luna scolded. She turned back to the Queen. "Your
Majesty...what are you planning to do?"
     "Not much I can at the moment. I will have a talk with her...and with him.
I want to know how serious this is. I know that earlier Sailors Chronos and
Mara tried to intervene. But, it was useless. She has fallen...very hard."
     "If it's serious...that means she wants to marry him?" Luna gasped.
     "Yes." Serenity got up and looked out the window. "They are together even
as we speak. If I forbid her to see him, she may rebel. If I don't...something
worse may happen." She looked at the two cats. "In your opinions...how will
this effect the Imperium?"
     Luna sighed. "Well...the Kings of the respective planets will never allow
a man from Earth to rule over them. They have accepted you and they are willing
to accept Princess Serenity. But..if she marries an Earth man..who knows?"
     Queen Serenity nodded. "As I thought myself. The Silver Imperium would be
split. Some worlds would side with her out of loyalty. The others.." Serenity
bowed her head. "The Outer worlds would never accept this. And, I'm not sure
King Holar of Mars would either. It's not something I expected although, at her
age I suppose I should have."
     "The problem is, he's an Atlantean." Artemis said. "If he were Lumerian,
it might change. The Lumerians are supposedly advanced technologically."
     The Queen nodded. "I will be going to Lumeria tomorrow with their
representative. From all indications, they are as advanced as we are but, on a
different level. They have chosen to remain on Earth rather then rebuild an
Empire. Duke Kinches told me they came from many light years away. Their world
was destroyed."
     "Destroyed?" Luna asked.
     "During the wars. The Sailor Wars." The Queen shook her head. "It no
longer matters. I must deal with this situation as it stands. I'll confront
Serenity tonight and she will have to think this over. If the young Prince is
serious, perhaps a time of courting would be acceptable."
     "Queen Serenity.." Artemis eyes narrowed. "How do you feel about this?"
     "Me?" Serenity laughed. "I want her to be happy. If she chooses this man
and he cares for her, what more can I ask for? Forcing her to marry a son from
one of the respective planets will not solve anything. And, I've seen her with
him. Seen the way he looks at her. I feel it too. It's real."
     "Then...we'll have to deal with it I guess." Luna sighed again. "When will
you be returning to the Imperium?"
     "I want to meet this Queen Beryl and discuss with her just how fast they
intend to advance Atlantis technologically now that they have contacted it. I
am hoping her goals are the same as my own. If they are not...we may have
words."
     "Please be careful, Queen Serenity." Artemis said. "You're walking into an
unknown situation. Perhaps we should send some of the other Senshi down to
you?"
     "No.." The Queen smiled. "That would make it look as if we didn't trust
them. We'll be fine...and I have the means to escape should something go wrong.
Also, Sailors Chronos and Mara are quite capable. Again, thank you both for
your concern. I just wanted to seek your advice."
     Luna nodded. "All we can do now is wait and see if they are serious.
Perhaps they will find it isn't."
     The Queen nodded and waved her hand over the ball. "Farewell my friends. I
will see you in a few days. Tomorrow, I'll be in Lumeria. If there are any
problems, I'll notify you."
     The ball faded away and Queen Serenity looked out the window again. From
her room she could see the lake off to the right and the form of her daughter
standing by the water. The young Prince was standing next to her, holding her.
     A knock sounded at the door. The Queen turned. "Yes?"
     "Sailors Mara and Chronos. May we please come in?"
     "Please do."
     The door opened and, the two Senshi entered. Mara shut the door and, she
nodded to Chronos.
     Chronos hesitated. "Queen Serenity...we...we have something..unpleasant to
report."
     "It would depend on one's perception what is unpleasant." the Queen
responded. She smiled. "You are referring of course to my daughter's love for
this Atlantean Prince?"
     Mara looked at Chronos then back at the Queen. "You knew?"
     "Of course. Did you think it would pass my notice? I've seen him with her.
I've also seen Duke Kinches has encouraged it. I don't know why but, that is
unimportant now."
     "Kinches." Chronos growled. "I should have known."
     "Queen Serenity....what do you intend to do?" Mara sounded fearful.
     "What do you mean?" Serenity asked.
     "You do remember the situation with Chronos several years ago?"
     Queen Serenity smiled. "Of course. Sailor Chronos knows that better then
anyone. But...remember when I said before we left I hoped an alliance would
change certain attitudes within the Imperium?"
     "Yes." both Senshi answered together.
     "I am hoping that as our nations grow closer such prejudicial things will
no longer exist. Only time will tell."
     "But if Kinches encouraged this..." Mara began, "what does Lumeria have to
gain?"
     "It may have nothing to do with politics. If you're so concerned...why don't
you both ask him?"
     "You already know." Chronos said. "Don't you?"
     "Yes." Queen Serenity met their eyes. She looked suddenly several years
older. "If the Imperium did not accept this man, it would split us. This is a
great possibility. If my daughter chooses to marry him and remain on Earth as
the new Atlantean Queen..."
     "Who will rule the Imperium?" Mara cut in. "Of course! This is a plot! It
has to be. And that damn Kinches has encouraged it! He aimed that Prince right
at Princess Serenity!"
     "I would believe that if she had not already seen him...and had feeling
for him...before they ever met."
     "What?" Chronos shook her head. "I don't understand."
     Queen Serenity described the night before in her chambers when she had
viewed the Prince and Kinches working together. The two Senshi listened then
when the Queen finished, Sailor Mara swore...
     "This Kinches is really beginning to irk me! What he's teaching them.."
     "They should not be learning yet. They are advancing too fast for their
own good." Queen Serenity nodded. "That is why I chose to make contact
now...before they were literally on our doorstep."
     Chronos gripped her sword. "I think you and I need to talk to this Kinches
Sailor Mara."
     "I agree." Mara glared out the window." If you'll excuse us Your Majesty?"
     "One moment." 
     The two Senshi looked at the Queen. She smiled. "We must be delicate.
Tomorrow we are all going to Lumeria and will be their guests. While there, I
want you both to observe everything. Understand?"
     "Understood." they bowed to her.
     "What of Princess Serenity and this Prince?" Chronos asked.
     "For the moment..." Queen Serenity sighed. "we'll leave it alone."


     Duke Kinches made his way through the hallway heading for his room. He
watched as the activity continued. Sighing, he opened the door to his room and
went inside feeling the fatigue.
     "We need to talk." a voice said.
     Whirling, Kinches moved at lightning speed only to find the form of Sailor
Chronos inches from him. Her sword was out and ready. Kinches glared at her
then saw Sailor Mara behind him. "Hmm.." he shook his head. "Is this any way
for future allies to act?"
     "That all depends." Sailor Mara moved forward. "You're the one that has
been encouraging Prince Endymion in his pursuit of Princess Serenity."
     "So?" Kinches shrugged. "I see no harm in it. He loves her. It's obvious
even to you two. Let them be happy."
     "You know what's at stake!" Chronos glared. "Or perhaps maybe you don't."
     "I think he does." Mara smiled. "I think he knows it will cause such an
uproar that..."
     "That the Silver Imperium will be destroyed." Kinches nodded. "Yes, I can
see why you would think that. But I assure you both, those are not my
intentions."
     "Really." Mara snorted. "Why don't I believe that?"
     "Perhaps because you've never had a love you cannot have?" Kinches raised
his eyebrows. He turned to Chronos."I don't know why but, you seem very
emotional about this. Perhaps you have experienced it. Suffice it to say, I
want for Prince Endymion what I never had. I believe it is destiny for him to be
with Princess Serenity."
     "And how would you know this?" Mara said hotly.
     "Because I feel it. He has a chance at love that I never have. Like him, I
have a woman I love. She knows it. She cares for me but, her duty comes first.
Because of that duty, she denies herself that happiness that I feel I could
give her. That is all I seek."
     Chronos lowered her sword but kept it in hand. "So, you have no designs to
use this situation to destroy the Imperium?"
     Kinches laughed. "If your Imperium is so strong, it will surely withstand
this. If it doesn't..then perhaps it's best it fall."
     "WHY YOU.." Mara shouted. She moved forward.
     "Wait Mara!" Chronos put up her hand. "I can see his point. Let's not let
emotions get in the way. The Imperium should be able to withstand this."
     "Wisely said." Kinches moved past Chronos and stood by the window. "I want
you two to put aside your sense of duty for a moment and think of yourselves as
women. You are both very beautiful. Yet, you've had no time for a boyfriend, a
husband, or other things that make life enjoyable. Now look at your Princess
here..." He nodded toward the window. "Did you see the joy in her face when she
was reunited with Endymion? They have been inseparable. It doesn't matter to
them they have known each other only two days. What matters to them is what
they feel. Only time will tell if it is real but, you two need to stand back
and let them see for themselves. Stop interfering in their love."
     Mara glared at him. "My concern is for the..."
     "Yes, you've said that." Kinches grinned. "The Imperium is very important.
Unlike Lumeria, it's a vast empire that controls the entire solar system. Queen
Beryl has noticed this. It might be why we took so long to contact you. When
your a fly on the wall and you want to avoid those that might crush you, the
best policy is to remain still and hope your not seen."
     Chronos sighed. "We would never hurt you. The Imperium does not attack
anyone. We only defend ourselves.."
     "We did not know this." Kinches nodded. "It's good you came down here to
Atlantis first. Queen Beryl has had time to make the adjustment of your coming
and, you will be most welcome."
     Mara sighed. "I suppose we'll have to back off on this for now. But, we'll
be watching you."
     "The sign of a good alliance." The Duke smiled. "Mutual trust. We too will
be watching you. We have for years."
     Chronos took Mara's arm and steered her toward the door. "We'll see you
later, Duke Kinches..."
     Kinches watched them go and moved to the window. He watched the two lovers
walking by the shore. A thin smile crept to his lips. "That could have been
us...Vindalla."
     
     Endymion smiled and had dinner with Serenity for the last time in his home
country. Tomorrow, all of them would be leaving for Lumeria. Duke Kinches had
confirmed that Queen Beryl had made all arrangements and was anxiously awaiting
their arrival. As they finished dinner and Endymion helped Serenity up from the
table, Queen Serenity turned to him. "Prince Endymion...I wish to see you and my
daughter immediately."
     Endymion looked quickly at Serenity and the two followed the Queen to an
empty room. The Queen shut and locked the door then turned to them. "Please sit
down. I've been told by your father that I may use this room to discuss some
issues with you."
     Endymion nodded. "What issues, Your Majesty?"
     The Queen sat down across from him and looked directly into his eyes.
Endymion shifted uncomfortably. Her face remained calm. "The issue of whether
you will be a King of Atlantis..or a King of the Imperium."
     "What??" Endymion gasped,
     "Mother..." Serenity hesitated.
     "How much do you love my daughter, Prince Endymion?"
     Endymion swallowed nervously then took Serenity's hand. "With...with all my
heart. I've never felt this way about anyone."
     "Have there been a lot of others?" the Queen's eyes seemed to pierce him.
     "I...no..not really but.."
     "Then how can you be so sure you love my daughter so much you wish to make
her your Queen?"
     Endymion looked down. "I know what I feel..."
     "Serenity..." the Queen said.
     Princess Serenity looked at her mother. Her eyes were filling with tears.
"Yes...yes Mother."
     "Serenity...you have never had anyone before. No other boyfriends I know
of and certainly no marriage proposals. Do you truly feel that this young man
is the one for you?"
     Serenity met her mother's gaze as the tears fell down her cheeks. "Yes!
Yes! I know he is mother! I love him! I loved him when I first saw him. I don't
know how else I can explain or justify this. It's happened so fast I know
but..."
     The Queen smiled and put up her hand. "I don't need you to convince me. I
need you to realize this yourself. You are only fifteen. That is marriageable
age but, you should court others before making such a final decision."
     "NO!" Endymion gripped Serenity's hand firmly. "Your Majesty please! I know
she is the one for me. I would do anything for her. I would give my life up!"
     Queen Serenity smiled. "So both of you truly feel you love each other so
much that you would forsake everything?"
     "Yes." Endymion said without hesitation."
     "Yes, Mother." Serenity echoed.
     The Queen nodded. "Very well. There is nothing I can do now but to
sanction it."
     "Wh..what?" Endymion gasped.
     "I will allow you to court Serenity. If in a few months you both truly
feel it is real, I will announce your engagement. This will possibly hurt the
Imperium and maybe Atlantis too...but I am willing to take that risk if you
both are truly going to be happy together."
     OH MOTHER!!" Serenity flung herself into her mother's arms and hugged her.
"I love you Mother! Thank you! Thank you!!!"
     The Queen felt her daughter's tears of fear turn to ones of joy. She smiled
at Endymion as she held her daughter. "You have an important decision to make
Prince Endymion. If in a few months you two decide to wed...you must decide
whether you will rule Atlantis..or possibly the Imperium. If you choose the
Imperium...it will not be an easy road for you. There will be great
resistance. If you choose Atlantis...I will lose my daughter and I will be
forced to find a successor. True love has many pains. In this case, it will be
for many." She bowed her head still hugging her daughter. "Please choose wisely
when the time comes..."
     "Mother.." Serenity pulled away. "Why can't we just bring Earth into the
Imperium?"
     The Queen shook her head. "You are so young...but you will soon understand
Serenity. Lumeria will sign a trade agreement and a possible alliance. But...if
we tried to annex Earth into the Imperium...it would threaten their
individuality...and we would become...enemies."
     "That won't happen." Serenity smiled and hugged her mother again. "We'll
make it work. Thank you mother!" She took Endymion's hand. "Let's dance together
Endymion."
     Endymion looked at the Queen who nodded that they were dismissed. As they
left, she bowed her head. "I hope I have made the right decision." she
whispered. "If the future is willing...things will work out...."

     

                        Chapter Seven: Lumeria!

     "Excuse me..Priestess Vindalla?"
     Vindalla opened her eyes and looked up at her alter. The sweet smell of
incense hung in the air. She brushed back her long black hair and turned to
face her caller. "Yes? What is it General Zoisite?"
     Zoisite bowed. "Queen Beryl wishes to see you as soon as possible."
     "I'll come now. Thank you, General." Vindalla rose  to her feet and bowed
once to the alter. "Forces of time and inner strength. Until we meet again."
She turned and walked toward the exit to her temple....
     As Vindalla moved through the great city of "Norba" she watched all the
excitement around her. She stepped into a waiting magno-flux car with General
Zoisite. "This has to do with my feelings toward the Imperium doesn't it?" she
asked.
     Zoisite shrugged. "I don't know, Ma'am. But Queen Beryl is expecting both
the representative from Atlantis and the delegation from the Imperium. She
wants you present when they both arrive."
     "So soon." Vindalla sighed. Her voice fell silent as the car rose off the
ground and moved quickly through the streets. It's faint hum was almost
comforting as she thought back to a conversation she had with Duke Kinches only
days ago....

     "Beryl is sending you on this mission?" Vindalla stared at Kinches.
     "Yes. She feels I am the best person to make the first overtures to
Atlantis."
     Vindalla sat down heavily and looked at him. "Does she realize that once
we make contact with Atlantis and begin to influence them, the Imperium will
come?"
     "I'm sure she does. I'm only following orders." Kinches sat down and,
Vindalla leaned against him. "Are you still troubled by all this?" He put his
arms around her and stroked her long hair.
     "Kinches...I am not...disturbed by Atlantis. I think we can help them.
But, we know nothing of the Imperium. And I fear, if we are not careful our own
culture will be destroyed as they meld with us."
     "Then we must be ready to accept that and maintain our own identity."
Kinches pulled away and looked into her eyes. "You know my feelings. I have
always wanted you. I'll stand by you no matter what the future holds for us. I
was with you when we left our home planet and..."
     "This isn't about us!" Vindalla stood up. "It's about our people becoming
nothing more then pawns! We have lost our original home. We can't lose this
one! I'll do whatever it takes to take care of our people. As Spiritual Leader,
I can do no less!"
     "I understand." Kinches stood up. "But, no matter what happens...I love
you.."

     "I love you too Kinches. But...with the people to care for, I must
put all my personal feelings aside and think only of their good. I have no
time for love."
     "I know..." he whispered. She could feel the hurt in his voice.
"But..for me...there will never be anyone else....."     

     His voice faded from her thoughts as Vindalla came back to the present.
She watched the people wave and smile as she went by. They all loved her. She
had through her teachings shown them inner peace and strength of will. Now, was
it all about to be replaced by the Imperium's teachings? She thought of her
research and how in this world's history she had seen the more barbaric
cultures destroy the weaker. They took everything. Even the language. Vindalla
grit her teeth. She was determined this would never happen to the Lumerians!

     "Come in Vindalla."
     Vindalla bowed once and entered Queen Beryl's chambers. Beryl smiled and
stepped off her raised dais. She met Vindalla in the middle of the floor.
"Thank you for coming. How are the people doing?"
     Vindalla sighed. "Spiritually, they are both excited and nervous. It is an
interesting feeling. But, there is a tone of underlying fear. Queen Beryl, may
I ask what your true intentions are regarding Atlantis?"
     "Intentions?" Beryl laughed. She moved to a table and poured a glass of
wine. She poured a second and handed it to Vindalla. "I simply feel that this
nation can no longer afford to be isolated. The Imperium is quite large so, it
would be nice to have someone we can depend on here...should attitudes change."
     "I see." Vindalla sipped her glass. "Then...you feel as I do that, the
Imperium is a concern?"
     "For over a hundred years they haven't bothered us nor we them. Did you
find it surprising that as soon as we chose to contact Atlantis they have now
moved as well?" Beryl's eyes narrowed. "They are deeply concerned. When they
arrive, we must treat them as friends. But, I intend to let the Imperium Queen
know that, we will not back down when it comes to Atlantis. I am sure she too
will have her own agenda. But, we will stand up to them. It's important that we
are strong."
     "I'm very glad to hear that." Vindalla smiled. "I've been searching
through the cosmos using my inner will. There are great forces out there that
may assist us should we need it."
     "Your astral travels." Beryl nodded. "What are you searching for?"
     "I am..." Vindalla hesitated.. "searching for a solution to this. If for
example Atlantis chose to ally with the Imperium and not us, we would need
another ally. It is my belief that ally is from inner space. Not outer. The
Imperium controls the outer space. I have not encountered them in my inner
travels. But, I have encountered others."
     "Others?" Beryl looked up. "Explain."
     "Strong forces. They seem receptive and welcome. I am investigating it
just as you are investigating the Imperium."
     Beryl smiled. "I have a simpler solution. I intend to join Atlantis to
us."
     "Oh?" Vindalla smiled. "How do you propose to do that, Your Majesty?"
     "I have not met Prince Endymion but, I hear from Kinches he is quite
handsome. I intend to offer him my beauty."
     "What?" Vindalla blinked.
     "I will propose to him a marriage. A marriage between him and myself that
will join our two peoples. This will unite us in a bond that even the Imperium
won't be able to break."
     Vindalla grinned. "Clever. Hopefully he will accept. If he doesn't then,
perhaps we can all be friends anyway. Nevertheless, I would like your
permission to continue my "inner space" explorations. I truly feel they are
beneficial to us."
     Beryl nodded. "Acceptable. Continue then. Please keep me advised as to the
spiritual needs of the people. The next few days I am sure will be crucial."
     "Thank, Your Majesty." Vindalla bowed to Beryl and left feeling more
confident. A marriage? Perhaps that would be an answer to this dilemma. It
would show the Imperium that friendship would be possible....but destroying
all Lumeria knew would not.....

     Vindalla returned to her temple. She opened her mind. It drifted..far
beyond Earth...far beyond her current dimension. "I am here. Where are you?"
she whispered.
     "I'm here friend." a voice answered.
     "If I need you, will you be there for me?" Vindalla asked. "I sense no one
in this sphere but you."
     "I am all there is" the voice said. "Please let me come visit you."
     Vindalla smiled inwardly. "Soon, my friend. I'm not ready yet to drop my
barriers. I am still unsure."
     "I understand." the voice said. "Is your world beautiful?"
     "Yes...very. But, there is an outside force called the Silver Imperium
that may threaten it. I am still unsure of that."
      "I can help you." the voice said. "If you really need me, I'll be there."
     "Do you have a name?" Vindalla asked. "I know we've been communicating for
weeks but, we never seemed to of gotten around to that."
     "I have a name." the voice said. "It's.....Metallia."


     "Represent us well my son."
     Endymion shook hands with his father and hugged his mother. He glanced
quickly at Princess Serenity who stood by Queen Serenity. Duke Kinches stood
behind them.
     "Come home soon." Queen Karlel said. She kissed Endymion and smiled at
Princess Serenity.
     Duke Kinches raised his hand toward the waiting ship. "Please...come
aboard everyone."
     Felv looked warily up the ramp. "This ship makes me nervous. It doesn't
have any sails or windows."
     "It does not require them." Kinches grinned. "All our needs will be seen
to on the voyage."
     Endymion offered his arm to Princess Serenity who took it. He started up
the ramp with her. Queen Serenity followed, with Felv trailing. The two Sailor
Senshi and Kinches brought up the rear.
     Sailor Chronos looked at the silver ship with interest. "I wonder if we
once travelled in ships like these?"
     "Maybe." Mara commented. She looked back at the Queen who was silently
watching her daughter and the Prince. They had reached the top of the ramp.
     Two Lumerian officers bowed to them as they entered. Both were female.
     "Welcome aboard." the first smiled. "I'm General Aubel. This is Lt. Ember.
We're pleased to meet you and to take you to Lumeria."
     Princess Serenity curtsied and the Prince bowed. They entered the ship.
Everyone else followed. The ramp began to shut.
     Sailor Mara looked up as soft lights came on and, a hum filled the ship.
     Endymion watched fascinated as Kinches pointed upward. "Electric lights
Endymion...something we will show your people soon. Also, a new source of power
that drives all our machines...magnetic energy."
     Queen Serenity glanced around her. Her face was unreadable except to
the Princess. Sailor Chronos caught it too. Queen Serenity was nervous.
     The hum continued and, everyone felt like their weight shifted. Then,
General Aubel smiled. "Follow me please, everyone."
     She led them inward through the corridors. The hum continued and, Endymion
felt the ship in motion. Aubel waved her hand over a door and it opened. A
small room was within with chairs.
     "Please have refreshments brought to the guests." Duke Kinches ordered.
     "Yes Sir." Lt. Ember left quickly. A moment later as they were all seated,
a liquid was brought which was dark red. Kinches nodded. "This is from Lumeria
although I've been told by King Edicor that it is similar to "wine" they have
in Greece."
     "I see." Queen Serenity nodded. "I assume Queen Beryl will meet us when we
arrive?"
     "Of course. Priestess Vindalla will be there as well."
     "Vindalla...." Mara looked hard at him. "You speak of her as someone who
cares deeply for..."
     "I'd rather not have that discussion please." Kinches cut the Senshi off.
     The room fell into an awkward silence. Princess Serenity smiled at Prince
Endymion who reached over and took her hand. He was making it no secret that he
loved her. Sailor Mara shifted uncomfortably. Chronos smiled amused.
     Kinches stood up. "Allow me to show you some things." He got up and waved
his hand over the wall facing them. It began to change and shortly, it was
transparent. Queen Serenity stood up and moved to the wall. In front of them,
the ocean streaked by at incredible speed.
     The Queen watched for a moment. "Your gliding over the water?"
     "Like a hydroplane." General Aubel answered. "We create a field that
utilizes the Earth's magnetic energy. This enables us to keep opposing poles in
balance and move at incredible speeds."
     Endymion blinked not understanding a word of what had been said. He looked
at Felv who looked like he was scared out of his wits. Endymion smiled amused.
All of this was fascinating to him. Princess Serenity smiled at him and
squeezed his hand.
     "Do you use magic as well as science?" Queen Serenity asked.
     "Yes, both." Duke Kinches looked at her. "I have been teaching Prince
Endymion some of the principles at mastering the mind."
     "When we have time, I wish to talk about that." The Queen answered. Her
voice sounded neutral.
     
     For several hours the ship travelled over the water. Then at last, it
reduced speed. General Aubel entered the room. "We're approaching Lumeria.
Queen Beryl is expecting us and will meet you all at the dock."
     The passengers all waited as the ship began to slow. Through the panel
they could see the shore. A huge city was towering on the land. Princess
Serenity gasped as she saw what looked like objects and people moving through
the air. "What...?"
     Duke Kinches smiled. "Welcome to our home. Lumeria you'll find is much
different from the Imperium...and certainly from Atlantis."
     The ship slowed to a stop and seemed to lock onto the dock. The door
opened and General Aubel led them to the ramp. Prince Endymion blinked as his
eyes adjusted from the low ship lighting to the bright sunlight. On the docks
he could see thousands of men lined up in the gray uniforms. They held swords
upraised to form a pathway. At the bottom of the ramp, two women awaited them.
     Sailor Chronos stepped out. She took a look over the expanse before her.
"This is much different then my world."
     "Mine too." Mara added. She gripped her staff.
     Queen Serenity looked at the Princess who seemed enthralled by all this.
She looked past the two Senshi and directly at the two women below. One had
bright red hair and a long red dress. The other had long black hair and a green
dress. Duke Kinches moved past the passengers and led them down the ramp. He
stopped before the two and went down on one knee. 
     "Queen Beryl. I have accomplished my mission." He rose and smiled. "This
is Prince Endymion of Atlantis."
     The red haired woman smiled. She looked quickly at the girl in the white
dress that was on the Prince's arm. "Welcome Prince Endymion to Lumeria. I am
Queen Beryl. I am most pleased to have you here."
     "Thank you, Queen Beryl." Endymion bent forward and kissed her hand. "I
bring greetings from my father, King Edicor. I am prepared to discuss full
diplomatic relations with you."
     The black haired woman nodded. "That is good to hear, Prince Endymion." She
stepped forward. "I'm Priestess Vindalla. I rule here as Spiritual Leader under
Queen Beryl."
     Beryl glanced quickly at Vindalla and smiled. "And the rest of you?" Her
eyes fell on Queen Serenity. "You must be the Imperium Queen I have heard so
much about. Welcome as well."
     "Thank you." Queen Serenity came forward. "This is my daughter, Princess
Serenity."
     "You look just like your mother." Beryl nodded to the Princess. "I see you
have made good friends with the Prince."
     Princess Serenity sensed something. She nodded and blushed slightly. Queen
Beryl frowned for a second then turned to the Queen. "And these others are?"
     "My two Senshi guardians. Sailors Chronos and Mara."
     "Charmed." Beryl's voice seemed to have an edge. "Well, then, let us first
have you relax from your voyage then, we can discuss important matters. I will
especially look forward to talking to the Prince."
     Endymion met Beryl's eyes and, she smiled. Queen Serenity fell silent. The
group moved on. Felv followed close behind Endymion feeling out of place. Beryl
led them to a vehicle and it drove them through the huge city. Endymion gasped
at what he saw...the huge towers...the flying machines..the
people...everything. It was all too impossible to comprehend. Queen Beryl
noticed his look and smiled. "Relax, Prince Endymion. It won't be long before
your nation too will have access to all this...and more."
     Princess Serenity saw her mother stiffen. For a moment, she and Beryl
seemed to stare at each other. It was then that Serenity realized....her mother
and Queen Beryl did not like each other...

     The vehicle reached a huge castle and, a man opened the door. Beryl smiled
and led them inside. Vindalla who had been quiet up to this point hung back
now. Duke Kinches turned to her. "Are you alright?"
     "That woman..." she nodded to Queen Serenity. "and her daughter...are a
threat to our way of life."
     Kinches sighed. "I don't think so. Once we truly get to know them, things
will work out."
     "My only concern is for the people of Lumeria." Vindalla stared at the
group as it entered the castle. "Queen Beryl had a plan...to unite our people
with Atlantis. But, I can see already it will come to nothing."
     "Plan?" Kinches stared at her. "What was she planning.."
     "She was going to marry Prince Endymion. But, it appears he has already
chosen the Imperium Princess. This could get difficult in the days to come.
I must be prepared for that."
     "Your always seeing the worst in people." Kinches grinned. "You need to
think about the good things."
     "If I didn't see the worst Kinches, I couldn't correct it, now could I?
I am responsible for the spiritual well being of our people. We cannot let
ourselves be swallowed up by the Imperium." Vindalla moved forward toward the
main door of the castle as she spoke. Her long black hair flowed down her back.
     "Kinches.." she stopped and looked back.
     "Yes?"
     "No matter what happens, I do love you. I wanted you to know that.
Sometimes I don't allow myself to feel it."
     Kinches moved forward and hugged her. Her head fell against him. "Does
this mean you'll allow yourself time...for us?"
     "I...I don't know. I think...let me see how things turn out okay? I have
been thinking that, there are times it might be better if I didn't just think
of others. I spend all my time visiting the sick and treating those in need
who's souls cry out for love. Kinches..." she looked up at him, "there is a
greater need then I can sometimes fill."
     "Perhaps the Silver Imperium can help?" he suggested.
     "I don't know. I do know that Queen Beryl and the Imperium Queen do not
see eye to eye. That will be a problem in any negotiations with them. If it's
possible, I would like to visit the Imperium and form my own conclusions based
on what I see there. I have watched them from a distance for over a hundred
years. I want to see what they are like close up." She smiled. "Can you arrange
that?"
     "I'll talk to the Queen." Kinches sighed. "The fact Endymion is attracted
to the Princess may be my fault."
     "What?" Vindalla stared at him.
     "I encouraged it." he admitted. "I told him to follow his heart. I wanted
him to have..."
     "What you never did." Vindalla finished. "This was a mistake on your part.
Don't let Queen Beryl find out..." She continued on into the castle......



                        Chapter Eight: Morality!

     Prince Endymion looked up in wonder at the ceiling filled with thousands
of bright gemstones. The walls of the castle were covered by a strange metal
that was smooth to the touch. Queen Beryl smiled. "Do you like this, Prince
Endymion?"
     "Yes, it's incredible." He looked at Princess Serenity who squeezed his
hand and avoided the eyes of the Queen. Queen Beryl looked away and continued
to lead them deeper into the castle.
     "Queen Beryl..." A woman in a gray uniform came forward. "Lord Onyx says,
the conference room is ready. We have prepared all as requested."
     "Thank you." Beryl indicated for the woman to lead them.
     Sailor Chronos looked at Sailor Mara who nodded knowingly. Both Senshi
felt on edge and therefore were prepared for anything. Behind Sailor Chronos,
Felv walked. His eyes never left Endymion but also, he continued to survey the
corridor they walked through.
     The group reached a room at the end of the corridor. Two men also
dressed in gray bowed.
     "Welcome." one said. "I am Jedeite. Personal advisor to Queen Beryl."
     Queen Serenity nodded but looked past him at the other man. His
smile seemed out of place. He nodded.
     "I am Nephrite. I am at your service."
     Princess Serenity smiled and looked happily up at Endymion. The group
entered the room. A huge table sat in the middle and, a tapestry hung on
the far wall of a green sun and seven worlds. Beryl took the head of the
table, assisted by Jedeite and Nephrite. They stood behind her as she took
her seat. Queen Serenity sat to her right. Prince Endymion to her left.
Princess Serenity sat next to her mother and, the two Sailor Senshi
sat a few chairs down from her. On the opposite side from the Senshi, Duke
Kinches sat. Beside him was Felv. Others filed into the room but remained
standing...
     "Welcome all." Queen Beryl smiled. "This is a historic day for my people.
This is our first time on this world we have contacted anyone. I hope it will
lead to a strong alliance between us all."
     Queen Serenity smiled and, Prince Endymion looked at Serenity. Beryl
momentarily frowned then beckoned for a man near the wall on her right to come
forward. A man dressed in black stepped forward. Princess Serenity shivered.
His eyes were black. He handed Queen Beryl a pouch and, she pulled forth some
documents. "I have here an alliance and full trade agreement which we are
prepared to offer to the Imperium. The documents between Lumeria and Atlantis
have already been signed."
     Queen Serenity looked at Endymion then at Kinches. Kinches smiled thinly.
     "I see." was all she said. After a moment of awkward silence, she turned
to Queen Beryl. "May I have a moment with you alone, Queen Beryl? There are
some things we need to discuss between us, I think."
     "Indeed?" Beryl smiled. "Very well." She nodded to Jedeite who moved around
the table and opened the twin doors. "Everyone please enjoy refreshments in the
main hall. The conference will be continued once I have spoken with the
Imperium Queen."
     Princess Serenity stiffened. She did not like the way Beryl was addressing
her mother...or her tone. She looked at Endymion who smiled confidently. 
     Sailor Mara glanced quickly at Chronos. The two exchanged a look that
spoke volumes! They were sitting on top of a volatile situation. Yet, they
could do nothing to interfere. This was between Queen Beryl and their own
ruler.
     As the men assisted everyone outside and the doors shut, Beryl turned to
Queen Serenity. "So...what are your concerns?"
     "I am...disturbed by what I have seen, Queen Beryl. Instances of higher
technology are being introduced too quickly to the Atlanteans. Duke Kinches has
been teaching mind control methods to Prince Endymion. Is this what you have
planned for Atlantis? You are pushing them toward a culture shock they may not
be ready to receive."
     "I have offered them aid and help."Beryl glared at her. "What have you
done? You chose not to even acknowledge their existence until we stepped
forward. Just as you chose to ignore us long ago when we first arrived!"
     The air seemed to grow heavy. Queen Serenity nodded. "You did not contact
us so, we chose to leave you in peace. That is our way. But, I believe if we
can put that aside, we can start a new beginning."
     "That is acceptable to me." Beryl said. "But, I do have a question Queen
Serenity. Tell me...what gives you the right to dictate your policies to
others? I have signed a trade and alliance agreement with Atlantis. I was
preparing to join our two nations. Now, I find, you have undermined my efforts
before I even start!" 
     "I..don't understand."
     "Then, I'll explain it in a way you can!" Beryl said hotly. "It was my
plan to offer myself to Prince Endymion in an arranged marriage. It would join
both our nations and, we would have a strong bond. The people of Atlantis are
intelligent enough to handle the changes which we will bring forth. It will
help them in ways your nation could never..."
     "You are going to push them too fast!" Serenity countered. "And, as for
your plans, I am truly sorry. My daughter and Prince Endymion fell in love
before any of us could prevent it."
     "Because YOU interfered!" Beryl almost shouted. She looked down. "Why did
you come here? It seems quite interesting that you chose to intervene just
after we contacted Atlantis. Cooincidence?"
     "No...we...did not know your intentions. We saw a possible threat unless
we clarified things." Serenity sighed. "Please, we do want to be friends. I
regret the past. Can we have a new beginning? I will interfere as little as
possible but, you must understand the gravity of what your doing? Atlantis must
be brought along slowly. We can help them and introduce them to higher
technology. But, we musn't push them into a future hundreds of years before
they are ready and invariably destroy their society! It's a moral obligation!"
     "Morality." Beryl snorted. "What do you know of morality? You sit on your
high Moon throne and look down upon us! I will do what I think is needed to
bring Atlantis and Lumeria closer. You have no right to dictate to me, Queen
Serenity. If you wish a trade agreement, I am more then willing. If you wish
alliance, that is acceptable. But, know this....I am already concerned about a
joining between the Silver Imperium..and Atlantis. Your timing was very bad."
     "I understand." Queen Serenity sighed. "I will agree to trade with your
nation. I will establish an ambassador as well. You may do the same."
     "Accepted." Beryl smiled. "Shall we join the others then? I will announce
our decision to everyone. I'm sure things will work out for the better. " She
moved past Serenity and opened the door. "Oh and one more thing, Imperium
Queen....DON'T interfere anymore in my overtures to Atlantis. Unless you want
our new friendship to turn to ashes as quickly as it has begun....."

     As Beryl walked out, Queen Serenity wiped a tear from her eye. Morality
had been trampled in the face of fear. What was to become of them
all?......    

     Princess Serenity looked up as she saw Queen Beryl enter the room. Her
mother came shortly after, her head downward. The Princess glanced quickly at
Prince Endymion before moving over to her.
     "Mother?" she asked.
     "I will...talk to you later." Queen Serenity moved over to the window and
stared out at the huge city around them. "High technology...forced upon those
not ready...leads to destruction of cultures." she whispered.
     Sailor Chronos glanced quickly at Mara. Queen Beryl had gone over to the
Prince. "Things are settled now so, there is no need to worry. A difference of
opinions is normal in any crucial negotiations."
     "Of course." Endymion smiled but looked past her at his Princess who stood
beside her mother.
     Queen Beryl nodded and turned to everyone. "I wish to announce that a new
day has dawned for all of us. Our three nations as of today will join together
for a common good. We will work together for the future to help those in need.

     As Queen Beryl spoke, Vindalla entered the room. She looked over and saw
the Imperium Queen standing with her daughter. Duke Kinches came over. "I'm
glad you're here. I was hoping you would be."
     "They don't seem happy with us, Kinches. Perhaps they are just as afraid
of us as we are of them."
     Kinches grinned. "I'm not afraid. I have become good friends with Prince
Endymion. I believe a bright future is about to dawn for us all."
     "Queen Beryl is also not pleased. I think she sees a possible alliance
between the Imperium and Atlantis growing out of control. I too feel this."
     "Your overeacting." Kinches frowned. "This gathering is a special
occasion. Why not get to know them?"
     "I shall." Vindalla moved past him and walked over to the two Sailor
Senshi. "Hello...I am Priestess Vindalla. It's good to talk to you two."
     Sailor Chronos looked quickly at her friend. Sailor Mara smiled. "Yes, it
is nice to meet you as well."
     "What is your capacity within the Imperium?" Vindalla asked suddenly.
     "Our capacity?" Chronos autocratic voice belied her concern. "We're
Senshi..we protect the Imperium."
     "Are you the first line of defense?" Vindalla sipped her glass.
     Mara shrugged. "Those of us that are Senshi work to protect the Imperium.
I don't know what else I can tell you."
     "Noble of you." Vindalla smiled. "Who cares for the spiritual needs of
your people?"
     "Queen Serenity of course." Chronos responded. "As well as the respective
planet rulers having their own."
     "And what beliefs do your people follow?"
     Mara looked at this woman in the long green dress. Her eyes were piercing
as she watched them. She seemed to be searching..probing..for information.
     "We believe in the eternity of the Imperium."
     "Meaning that you have eternal life?" Vindalla smiled. It was a smile that
seemed to hide something.
     "By your standards perhaps." Chronos shrugged. 
     "My people are very long lived as well." Vindalla looked past them and
nodded toward Princess Serenity. "How do you two feel about your Princess
joining with an earthman?"
     Mara swallowed. "I...I think that's a topic best not discussed at this
time."
     "Perhaps." Vindalla looked back at the two. "I think once we all get to
know each other, things will be fine." She seemed to drop her tone. "After
all...if they do get together, she will have to tell him sooner or later that
she will outlive him. After all...he's an ordinary human. Not much hope in that
type of relationship."
     Chronos glared at Vindalla and looked away. Mara's face flushed. "If
you'll excuse us..." She took Chronos arm and steered her away as they walked
out onto a terrace. 
     Vindalla smiled. "Yes...nice meeting you too."

    The wind whipped through their hair as the two Senshi stood outside. The
sounds of the great city came to them.
     "This is...not working out." Mara said.
     "I'm going to pound that woman!" Chronos swore angrily. "Ever since we've
arrived here, I feel like we're under observation! This has been completely
different from our visit to Atlantis."
     "It's obvious we aren't welcome here." Sailor Mara sighed. "Queen Beryl
apparently had some plans and our showing up messed them up." she giggled.
     "With her attitude, it serves her right." Chronos turned around and looked
through the glass. "That Vindalla woman...it's almost like she's prying."
     "I noticed that too." Mara sighed. "She says she's a Priestess but, I have
a feeling it goes deeper then that. Perhaps a magician or something as well.
But, I'm glad you're here with me, Alyssa."
     "We stick together." Chronos grinned. "You helped train me, you know. Your
probably my best friend in the Imperium. Our two planets have always done their
best. The inner defense is a big responsibility."
     "Now that your a full Senshi, you can help me train these new ones. The
new inner Senshi."
     Chronos laughed. "And with all these changes, it's something we will need
to do when we get back. Sailor Venus seems kind of flighty at times. Sailor
Jupiter looks at guys too much."
     "A lot of work." Mara agreed. She smiled. "Maybe we were wrong about those
two. They seem so happy."
     Chronos turned and watched Endymion standing with the Princess. "Yes...but
I remember too well the stories I was told regarding my parents. Those two
getting together might split the Imperium. Still...it's a risk that Queen
Serenity seems willing to take."
     Mara watched a little more and then turned to stare at the city. "I'll be
glad when this is over. It will be good to return to the Imperium again. I
think we're going to have to watch the Lumerians. They seem bent on pushing
Atlantis ahead too soon. It's a moral dilemma to say the least."
     "Maybe by design." Chronos voice fell. "Maybe...in preparation should they
need to fight against us."
     "And Princess Serenity getting together with Prince Endymion just ruined
that plan. No wonder things are so tense here!" Mara sighed.
     "We'll be ready for it." Chronos smile faded....


     Later that night, Vindalla entered her temple. She bowed and then knelt
down before the alter. Her mind reached outward. "Please...I need you." she
whispered.
     "I am here." a voice answered.
     "Is this Metallia?"
     "Yes...it is."
     Vindalla smiled. "I need your advice. The ones from the Silver Imperium
have come. We have signed agreements with them but, I do not trust them. I see
the possible destruction of my race."
     "A valid fear." Metallia answered. "I can help. Open your barriers to me
and I'll be there for you. Do you rule your people?"
     "No." Vindalla sighed. "And sometimes it makes me angry. I feel I have the
wisdom needed. But, Queen Beryl is in charge."
     "Queen Beryl..." the voice called Metallia was quiet a moment. "I want to
meet your Queen. Can you bring her to me?"
     Vindalla was silent a moment. "I....I can try. Why do you wish to meet
her?"
     "To convey your fears to her in my own way. I am good at such things. I
will show her that your fears are justified. After I have spoken with her, she
will be willing to listen to all things."
     Vindalla frowned. "I could tell her. What do you wish to say?"
     "It is better if I do it." Metallia answered. "I am not trying to belittle
you. But, if she hears it directly, she will more quickly support you. Does
that make sense?"
     Vindalla sensed something. Yet, if Beryl heard her concerns reflected back
through an outside source, she might listen. After all, the Queen's plan of
joining with the Atlanteans was in grave danger. Vindalla nodded. "I will bring
her to you. I'll convince her to listen to you."
     "But to properly understand me, I must be in direct contact with her."
Metallia said. "At that time, please drop your barriers."
     The urgency made Vindalla flinch. "I don't wish to offend you but, I don't
know you well enough yet to drop the barriers. You can talk to her through them
please."
     The precense seemed to be irritated. "I cannot help you unless I can make
contact! If you continue to mistrust me, I will be unable to convince your
Queen to listen. In time because of this...the Silver Imperium you describe
will be able to destroy you."
     "They would never do that!" Vindalla's thoughts showed fear. "I won't
allow it!"
     "Then...would you rather trust them...or me?" the voice said. It was
almost sinister but, Vindalla torn over thinking about the fate of her people
missed it.
     "I...will trust you." Vindalla answered. "When I'm ready, I'll bring Queen
Beryl here to you. And, I will drop the barriers. I hope you can help us."
     "No need to fear, my friend." Metallia laughed inwardly. "When I have
spoken to your Queen Beryl...you'll never have to fear the Silver
Imperium...or anyone else...ever again!"


                      Chapter Nine: Further Training!

     Duke Kinches arose early the next morning. His first impression was to
search for Vindalla but, he knew she was most likely still asleep or at work in
her temple. Best to not disturb her for now. He dressed and left his small
apartment in the castle. As he moved through the corridors, he caught a glimpse
of Prince Endymion standing near a fountain in the courtyard. He smiled.
     Prince Endymion closed his eyes. Holding a rose, he concentrated until he
felt it stiffen. Then, he spun at incredible speed and threw it hard! It
whistled through the air and stuck into the side of the fountain to join three
others that had previously been thrown.
     "That's too easy." a voice said behind him. "Try a real challenge."
     "Challenge?" Endymion turned and smiled as Duke Kinches came toward him.
"What do you mean?"
     Kinches pointed to the fountain. "Try throwing that rose through the
fountain. Try to hit that statue on the other side."
     "I see what you mean." Endymion nodded. "I can't see the statue through
the water and, the water will slow the rose down."
     "Exactly." Kinches grinned. "This is designed to do two things. It will
force you to draw on your "hidden skills" and focus without using your eyes. It
will also help you increase your speed. I'm glad your taking such an interest
in this."
     Endymion stepped back and faced the fountain. "I find all this
fascinating. I never knew I could do such things."
     "You'll be able to do more, my friend. I'll show you many things. But,
there is resistance to it."
     Endymion stopped and looked at him. "Resistance? Do you mean from Queen
Serenity?"
     "She is concerned that our contacting you will ruin your culture. It will
change your people and perhaps your course in history but, we have no plans to
ruin you. Like Queen Beryl, she is overeacting."
     "They don't trust each other...do they?" Endymion whispered.
     "No. When you have two great powers that come across each other, it can be
very dangerous. And, my attitude didn't help any."
     "Oh?" The Prince's eyes widened. 
     "Yes. I encouraged your budding relationship with Princess Serenity. I
see something in you that was once myself several years ago. I have hopes that
Vindalla and I will one day be together but, for now I simply allow things to
stay as they are. I didn't realize Queen Beryl might have other plans."
     "Plans for what?"
     Kinches laughed. "It hardly matters now, Endymion. But, I'm sure you'll
know soon. Please, continue with your training."
     Endymion shrugged and turned back to the fountain. He closed his eyes and
reached outward to where he knew the statue was. Then, with all his strength,
he threw!
     Kinches laughed. Hearing the laugh, Endymion opened his eyes. He saw the
rose floating in the water. "It didn't work." he sighed.
     "That's because your using physical strength. A test like this must be
accompanied by the spirit. Vindalla could explain it much more easily then I.
Suffice it to say, you must use a part of yourself from within to throw that
rose. Not just your strength. Most of your people couldn't begin to understand
this concept but, I believe you will."
     "Let me try again." Endymion plucked another rose that was on a bush and
concentrated. Once again, it stiffened.
     "You're getting quite good at that." Kinches complimented him.
     Endymion faced the fountain. This time, he closed his eyes and searched
within himself. Then, he felt something. Through the darkness, he could see a
shape in front of him. It was the statue. Opening his eyes, he focused on the
water from the fountain that ran down in front of him like a curtain. Suddenly
he moved too quickly for the eye to see and, the rose flew! It pierced the
water like an arrow and made a loud thunk as it stuck into the wall on the
other side.
     "Well done." Kinches smiled. "You catch on very quickly. How are your
flight skills?"
     Endymion smiled. "I...I haven't really worked on them. Takes more getting
used to."
     "No time like the present." Kinches indicated a high wall. "Launch
yourself from there and try to glide across the courtyard."
     Nervously, Endymion turned and walked up the steps on the opposite side.
Then, he scaled the high wall that was on both sides of the courtyard. He
swallowed as he realized the height. "This is harder then it looks."
     "It's no different from when you levitated yourself off the ground at
home. The difference of course is the distance you will travel. Don't think
about it. Simply focus your mind on the task at hand."
     Endymion felt fear and fought it down. Closing his eyes, he concentrated
and slowly he began to rise off the wall.
     "Now, will yourself across." Kinches instructed.
     Opening his eyes, Endymion almost gasped as he saw the ground below him.
He started to panic and he lost it. He fell and shouted but, before he hit, a
sudden cushion stopped him in midair. Still breathing hard, he turned and saw
Kinches smiling. "Relax, Endymion. You're in no danger."
     The Duke lowered Endymion to the ground. "You must believe that your skill
will keep you aloft. Granted, you can't fly for hours but, short term flight is
common in my society. Look around the city today and, you will see several
people doing it."
     "I have a lot to learn." Endymion sighed.
     "And we will teach you." a voice said behind him.
     Endymion turned and saw Vindalla coming toward him. Her hair was tied in a
ponytail and brought forward on her shoulder and, she wore a blue dress.
Endymion bowed to her. "Good morning, dear lady."
     Vindalla smiled. "I see Kinches is giving you a taste of things to come.
I'm glad you and he are such good friends."
     "It just seemed to fit." Endymion shrugged. "We have a lot in common."
     "Good." Vindalla smiled at Kinches. "The Duke means a lot to me. But, as
he has probably told you, I sometimes allow my duties to take precedence over
my personal feelings."
     "Sometimes?" Kinches snorted. "You're the veritable angel of mercy in our
society. You just need to be less suspicious of outsiders I think."
     "I welcome the Prince." Vindalla smiled at Endymion. "When you have time
Prince Endymion, I'd like you to visit my temple. I can show you many things
there. It's one of the more beautiful places in Lumeria." 
     "Sometime today perhaps?" Endymion grinned.
     "Very possible." Vindalla laughed. "You're a good man."
     "ENDYMION!!" a shout came from over them.
     They all turned and looked upward. Princess Serenity was at the top of the
stairs. She smiled and came down to join them. "Good morning."
     "Good morning, sweet Serenity." Endymion smiled and kissed her hand. "I'm
glad to see you. I was hoping you would be awake soon."
     Princess Serenity giggled and then nodded to the others. "Good morning."
     "Hello." Vindalla said. She smiled. "May I speak with you, Princess?"
     For a moment, Princess Serenity's smile faded. Then, she nodded. "Yes, of
course. That's what this trip is all about."
     Vindalla led the Princess down a pathway. "How much do you love the
Prince?"
     "Endymion? I love him eternally. I always want to be with him."
     "You do realize," Vindalla continued, "that there is a problem with this
don't you? He's a mere human and, you are an eternal. Or so I have heard."
     "Our love will keep us together." Serenity smiled.
     Vindalla sighed. "You do not understand what I am saying. Prince Endymion
will be outlived by you for several thousand years. Do you have the ability in
your society to prolong life?"
     "Uhmm...I never asked." Serenity shrugged. "But, my mother is a good and
kind person. I'm sure..."
     "In our society," Vindalla continued, "we use both science and the power
of the mind to prolong life. Don't you think Prince Endymion deserves that?"
     "Yes, of course but..."
     "Then wouldn't he be better off with someone who could give it to him?"
     Serenity looked up at her. "I think I can."
     "You think.." Vindalla smiled. "But, I know Queen Beryl can."
     "What are you suggesting?" Princess Serenity backed away.
     "I'm saying that it would be better for all of us if you thought of the
good of your Kingdom." Vindalla walked toward her. "In my opinion as someone
who gives 120% to her society, you are being a selfish person!"
     Princess Serenity swallowed. "Ummm...but...but we love each other!"
     "Sometimes love must come after what is right. Duty and honor should be
considered as well. I don't know your society but, I very much would like to
visit the Imperium. In fact, once things are wrapped up here and you all return
home, I would like Kinches and I to accompany you. I want to see for myself
what you have up there."
     "We would be honored to have you visit us." Princess Serenity curtsied.
"But...maybe you should think about some things too."
     "What?" Vindalla stared at her.
     "It seems that Duke Kinches loves you very much. Don't you love him? If
so, why not be happy together?"
     "Only a child could say that." Vindalla shook her head. "There are things
that you have yet to understand, Princess. A deeper love must sometimes take
precedence over your own."
     "But, if you aren't happy....how can you have any joy in making others
happy?" Serenity smiled. "Endymion and I know we love each other. We're already
making marriage plans."
     "Then I can say nothing to disuade you from this?" Vindalla swore. "The
impact on both of our societies will be tremendous. By marrying the Prince, you
will shift the balance of power."
     "But, we're all friends, right?" Serenity took Vindalla's hand. "It
shouldn't matter what any of us does. As long as we don't hurt each other,
there should be no concerns."
     "Maybe if you learned more about politics you would see." Vindalla looked
up and nodded. "Look."
     Princess Serenity looked and gasped as she saw Endymion fly overhead. His
eyes were focused on the opposite side of the courtyard. "En...Endymion!"
     "You see now?" Vindalla grinned. "Kinches is teaching him things that your
mother does not approve of. Perhaps you need to have a conversation with her. I
respect your feelings about love and your devotion to the Prince. But, look at
the overall picture won't you? Our nations are already strained because your
mother fears we are hurting Atlantis. If you marry the Prince...I can't be
responsible for what's to come."
     Princess Serenity sighed and bowed her head.
     "Think about it." Vindalla turned and walked off....


     All that afternoon Princess Serenity was troubled. Vindalla's words rang
in her head like the voice of doom and, she began to doubt more and more that
her new found happiness was the right thing to do. Prince Endymion in the
meantime smiled at her, never suspecting her fears and continued with his
training. Duke Kinches worked with him and, the Prince seemed totally intent on
learning new things...
     As she watched, she saw the two Sailor Senshi standing opposite the
activity. Sailor Chronos was watching with interest. Feeling a need to get her
feelings out, Serenity knew her mother was busy ironing out details with Queen
Beryl regarding the new alliance. She went to Chronos...
     "Sailor Chronos?"
     "Princess?" Chronos looked up at her. Sailor Mara standing beside her
smiled.
     "I...I wanted to ask you...about...Chronos...and...and why your parents
were considered...outcasts."
     Chronos sighed. "I told you. Are you having second thoughts about the
relationship with the Prince?"
     "I...I don't know." Serenity wiped tears from her eyes. "I want to be with
him but, I don't want to hurt anyone by doing so. If...if it will really
destroy everything...."
     "Everything?" Chronos said. "I'm sure it will make a lot of people angry.
But, Mara and I have discussed this. It may take a few years but, people will
learn to accept it. My parents are now accepted but, I remain a Sailor Senshi
out of duty. A lot of those attitudes are changing now. Both of us were
resistant to it."
     "That's true." Sailor Mara said. "But, I can see that you really do love
him. What has caused this change of heart?"
     "I..." Serenity struggled with the words. "I was talking with Vindalla.
She said...said that it would be better if Endymion was with Queen Beryl."
     Mara glanced quickly at Chronos. Sailor Chronos smiled and for a moment
dropped her autocratic nature. "And what do you feel?"
     "I...I love him. I don't want to lose him!" Her tears fell fully now.
"If..if I have to lose him...I'll die I think."
     Mara swallowed. "I don't think it's that serious, Princess. I suggest you
do what your heart tells you. We'll deal with the aftermath of it."
     Princess Serenity looked at Sailor Chronos. She nodded. "My parents are
still together. Be happy."
     Princess Serenity smiled and hugged them both. Then, she ran down the
stairs to join Prince Endymion...
     "Vindalla again." Mara sighed.
     "She definitely knows how to manipulate people." Chronos answered. "We'll
have to watch her....."
     
     
     Early evening, Queen Serenity was invited to visit Vindalla's temple. The
last of the alliance and trade negotiations had been completed. Queen Beryl
smiled. "I'm sure all our differences can be worked out very soon. I regret the
bad way we started."
     "As do I." Queen Serenity nodded. "Thank you, Queen Beryl. I shall be
returning home tomorrow. Vindalla asked me to visit her temple before I do so."
     "I'll have someone take you there. Would the others in your delegation
wish to go?"
     "Please." Queen Serenity smiled. "We very much appreciate learning all we
can about you."
     "Vindalla has expressed an interest in visiting your Imperium. I would
like to send her and Duke Kinches back with you. Would that be possible?"
     "Very much so, Queen Beryl. We would be most honored to have them."
     Beryl looked up as a man entered. "General Kunzite. Please take Queen
Serenity and her delegation to see Vindalla at her temple."
     "Yes, my Queen." Kunzite smiled. "I will await you in front of the castle,
Queen Serenity."
     Serenity nodded. After she had found Princess Serenity she, Prince
Endymion, and the two Sailor Senshi escorted the Queen along with Duke Kinches
to see Vindalla.
     As General Kunzite drove through the city, he pointed out many historic
features that went back over the time that Lumeria had been established.
Finally, he pulled up in front of a huge beautiful building that seemed to be
made of gold. "This is Vindalla's temple. Please, feel welcome."
     Kunzite led them to the doors and, two men were there to meet them. One
Princess Serenity recognized as a man named Onyx. His black eyes still made her
nervous.
     "Priestess Vindalla is waiting to see you." Onyx announced.
     He led the group inward. Princess Serenity gasped at the many tapestries
and strange pictures on the walls. The two Sailor Senshi looked at each other
then continued to survey what appeared to be a myriad of images engraved in the
walls as well. Golden statues and silver and bronze images were everywhere.
     The two double doors at the end opened. As they turned, they saw Vindalla
coming toward them. "Friends..please, come inside. I'm so pleased to have you
here."
     Queen Serenity nodded. "Thank you. This is..most impressive."
     "I am quite proud of it. But, these images have special significance. Each
represents a journey I have taken."
     "A journey?" Endymion looked at her.
     "I didn't know you travelled that far." Princess Serenity looked upward at
the roof. It was filled with stars and galaxies.
     "I never leave this temple...physically."
     Queen Serenity turned and stared at her. "You travel...astrally?"
     "Of course." Vindalla smiled. "This room and each one in this temple are
dedications to wondrous journeys I have taken. I have contacted many races and
entities far away. I have taken their teachings of love and a peace I find
difficult to describe and brought them here to my people. I have taught them
that, there is a better way then simply existing. Learning to reach into ones
own soul, we can touch each other and feel the needs of those that are hurt in
ways we could never before. I have healed many a person in need. I have brought
a calm acceptance to my people."
     "I see..." Queen Serenity walked around the room. "And when you take your
astral journeys...I assume you are protected?"
     "Do you think me a fool?": Vindalla sounded unsettled. Duke Kinches moved
toward her and watched concerned. She shrugged. "Forgive me. I am not used to
being questioned about my abilities. Yes, I am quite well protected. My skills
are quite unique and, I have put up several barriers so, I can travel where I
wish but bring nothing back with me. This way, I can contact many through inner
space but also, I shall never expose my people to the dangers within. I am
quite aware of my limits, Queen Serenity."
     The room fell silent. Prince Endymion stepped forward. "These skills you
use. Can they be taught?"
     Princess Serenity swallowed.."Uhmm...Endymion..."
     Vindalla laughed. She winked at Duke Kinches. "Relax dear little Princess.
I have no plans to teach your beloved anything that will harm him. Or you."
Vindalla smiled at Queen Serenity. "You have nothing to fear from me. I want us
all to be excellent friends." She turned to Prince Endymion. "I would like to
visit your Imperium if I may?"
     "Queen Beryl has already asked and I approved you and Duke Kinches as
ambassadors to visit us. We will be leaving tomorrow."
     "Thank you." Vindalla smiled at Kinches then turned to the Prince. "Prince
Endymion...are you coming as well?"
     "Of course." He smiled and took Princess Serenity's hand.
     Vindalla frowned then, she smiled quickly. "Excellent. Well, it should be a
most enjoyable trip then. Queen Beryl wants to see you this evening before you
leave tomorrow. She asked me to give you that message when you arrived here."
     "I'll see her then." Prince Endymion kissed Princess Serenity's hand and
bowed to everyone. "If you'll excuse me then." He turned and walked out of the
room with General Kunzite.
     Queen Serenity turned to her Sailor Senshi. "Please return home now and
inform Luna that we will be returning in the morning. I'd like a complete
reception prepared for our guests."
     "Yes, Queen Serenity." Sailors Chronos and Mara bowed then linked hands...
     "SAILOR.....TELEPORT!!!" they shouted.
     There was a flash and, the two Senshi were gone.
     Vindalla looked at Kinches. "Interesting. I will look forward to that mode
of travel soon."
     After a time, everyone departed and returned to the castle. Vindalla
watched them go then, as she went back inside, she smiled.
     She would examine closely the Silver Imperium. The Sailor Senshi. The
diplomatic structure of the Imperium realm. Then, she would decide once and for
all whether the Imperium was  friend....or enemy!

                             

                         Chapter Ten: Proposal!

     Prince Endymion got out of the vehicle as Kunzite pulled up to the castle.
The General smiled. "Queen Beryl awaits you."
     Endymion nodded and thanked the man then went inside. He noticed there
were fewer servants about as evening approached. He passed the large hall and
saw preparations being made for a farewell feast. He smiled. His visit here had
been good but, he was looking forward to seeing the Silver Imperium he had
heard so much about.
     Endymion reached Beryl's throne room and a man bowed to him. "Please, go
right in."
     Endymion pushed open the doors and stepped inside. At the far end, Queen
Beryl sat. She wore a beautiful golden gown and, her hair has richly adorned
with jewels. "Come in, Prince Endymion."
     Endymion went forward and down on one knee. "I'm at your service, dear
Queen."
     "Come here please." Beryl said.
     Endymion rose and, she stood up. "Walk with me for a bit. I have a
beautiful garden in back I'd like to show you."
     Queen Beryl led Endymion outside and down a small path. As she walked, she
spoke. "There are many here who are pleased with our new alliance, Endymion. I
myself would like to make it more permanent. I have an idea that would do just
that."
     Endymion sighed. He suspected what was coming but didn't know how to avoid
it. "Idea?" he said.
     Beryl pointed to the flowers around them. "Like this garden that so
beautifully flourishes, we of Lumeria can help your nation do the same. But,
there are some things I would love to show your people that the Silver Imperium
may object to. I would not want to rock the boat on those matters...if you
understand what I mean? We fully intend to show your people technology and ways
of doing things that are far superior to your own. But..." her voice trailed
off.
     "But..?" Endymion prompted.
     "But, we could show you far more if our alliance was more then a piece of
paper and promises. I suggest a more permanent joining."
     Endymion sighed. "I...I understand what you are saying. But, it's an
impossibility."
     "Oh?" Beryl looked hard at him. "Are you sure you understand me correctly
on this matter?"
     "You wish a marriage between you and I." Endymion smiled. "I appreciate
your kind offer and I'm sure so would my parents. But, I have someone I love
very much. And, I fully intend to wed with her."
     Beryl turned away. "Princess Serenity? It will never work. And, it would
put a great strain on things even more then if it were you and I."
     "I will take that risk." Endymion said. "She is worth more to me then
anything."
     Beryl turned angrily. "WHY? Why is she so important! A joining between our
nations could benefit us all! Endymion, do you not see what you are doing? You
are blinded by love! Cast it off and look at the bigger picture."
     "It is that bigger picture that keeps me on the path I have chosen."
Endymion put a hand on Beryl's shoulder. "I think you're a wonderful person. I
have enjoyed the talks we've had. And, I'm sure we'll have many more. But, our
marriage were it to be would only be one of nothing more then convience. You
must understand, this I cannot do. I'm sorry."
     Beryl was shaking. "I...I understand that you are taking an opportunity
and throwing it away. A joining between us could unite Earth! In time, we might
help this entire world! I have kept us remote and isolated but, if I were
joined with your people, I might reconsider that. As it is, if you join with
the Imperium Princess, what will you do? Will you rule Atlantis? Or the
Imperium?"
     "I...I don't know." Endymion looked upward at the moon. "But...I can't
turn back now. I love her too much and, I'll take whatever comes."
     Beryl grabbed him and stared into his eyes. "Is there nothing I can say to
change your mind? You have seen the wonders here! Your people would be
enthralled by it all! Don't throw it away!"
     The Prince smiled and kissed Beryl's hand. "I thank you for all you have
done. Atlantis will enjoy our alliance with you. Please try to show us as much
as you can without hurting our culture. On that, Queen Serenity and I are in
agreement."
     Beryl swore and walked away. "Fine. Do what you wish, Prince Endymion. I
will honor our nations agreements. I hope the Silver Imperium will as well.
But, I am increasingly concerned over the possibility that your nation will be
joined with theirs...." Her words faded away as twilight approached...

     Later that night, a grand ball was held in honor of the new alliances
signed. Queen Beryl attended but, other then occasional talks with Queen
Serenity, she kept to herself. Her eyes followed Prince Endymion and Princess
Serenity as they danced...the fire of jealousy and anger eating her within. Her
fears began to grow now as she saw the Silver Imperium Empire growing so large,
it would eventually consume Earth. She wished for a way to prevent what she
knew was to come....

     Princess Serenity smiled as she danced. Vindalla's words were only a dim
memory now. She knew that Endymion loved her completely. And, after her talk
with the two Sailor Senshi, she knew her feelings remained the same.
     "Princess Serenity...let's go outside."
     She nodded and followed him outside as they left the dance floor. The
night was warm and, above they could see the stars.
     "I can't wait to see your Imperium tomorrow." Endymion put his arm around
Serenity. "You've told me so much about it but, I can only imagine some of the
things."
     Princess Serenity leaned her head against him as they walked. "You'll love
it. I'll introduce you to all my friends. We'll visit each of the planets if
you want. I'll show you my home on the moon. There is so much to see, we could
spend days doing it."
     "I intend to spend days.." Endymion stopped and looked at her. "I intend
to make the Imperium my home."
     "En...Endymion." she whispered. 
     "I love you, Serenity. More then I've ever loved anything. I don't ever
want to part from you. If it can be done, I want to unite our people...and rule
them with you from the moon."
     "And Earth?" Serenity looked up at him. "You would leave Earth?"
     "I would still be able to come here. We would be together always and I
believe all our nations will flourish. Even Lumeria though Queen Beryl does not
realize it."
     Serenity looked away. "Queen Beryl...wants to marry you."
     Endymion smiled and moved her head to look at him. "She already
proposed...and I refused. I told her I have a love. A love I will never give
up. Now...I'm proposing to you, Serenity. Will you take this risk with me?"
     Princess Serenity felt tears of joy flow from her eyes. "Vindalla tried to
tell me this wasn't right. That I was being selfish. But, I look at you and I
feel your love. I feel eternity. I love you, dear Endymion. There could never
be anyone else. Vindalla was wrong. This is the right thing to do. No matter
what others feel...it's right. I'll take you, darling. I'll take whatever risks
we have to...together."
     Endymion hugged her close then drew her into a passionate kiss..... 

     Duke Kinches smiled as he watched from the balcony above them. He was
happy for them. No matter how Beryl felt..or his own love Vindalla..no matter
how it affected the future..it was right. "Well done....Endymion." he
whispered....


     Queen Beryl sighed and entered her room. Her feelings were eating her up.
She began to realize, she too cared for Prince Endymion. It wasn't just
something she could pass off.
     A knock sounded at the door. "Who is it?" she asked.
     "Lord Onyx."
     Beryl opened the door and walked back to a chair and sat down. The man
with dark eyes remained standing. "So...speak." she said.
     "You're gravelly concerned about this Silver Imperium, aren't you?"
     "Does it show so?" Beryl laughed. "It no longer matters. I intend to send
Kinches and Vindalla to evaluate it but, I already know what will occur. We
will make moves to advance Atlantis..thereby ensuring our continued survival.
But...I fully expect Queen Serenity to step in."
     "What if she does?" Onyx asked. "We would simply tell her..."
     "NO WE WILL NOT!!" Beryl shouted. "They don't need to know we're a dying
race! They can't help us anyway! It's because of the Sailor Wars that we're as
we are now. I will not ask the Imperium for help! Queen Serenity would never
understand! Our only hope is to unite with Atlantis! Yet, even that is
threatened now. So what is left? War with the Imperium? What would that do? It
would destroy us. No...we will simply fade away."
     Onyx bowed his head. "Queen Beryl...Vindalla has been making some
interesting contacts through inner space. I think you would find it
illuminating."
     "Vindalla is ambitious." Beryl said quietly. "She doesn't see the truth.
She has dreams of the Lumerians being as great as we once were...but they are
nothing. She doesn't know why we can't have children. We live long but, we are
not eternal. If we were, we too would be like the Imperium. For all our
advanced technology..we will one day die. It is inevitable. I had hoped to
continue on. But...the joining of the Imperium to Atlantis has doomed that
idea. There is nothing left, Onyx. We will live out our lives and perish into
history. The last of our people will die on this world."
     "Queen Beryl...please..it does not have to be this way." Onyx locked eyes
with her. "Let's see what happens before we lose hope. There are other elements
I'm sure that have yet to manifest themselves about the Silver Imperium. In
fact, if you would permit it, I'd like to go as well. Vindalla will be too busy
learning about the spiritual aspects. Kinches will no doubt be getting closer
to our "allies." You need someone there more objective. I know you care for
Duke Kinches but...he is..not open enough on such matters...."
     Beryl nodded. "Very well. You too may go, Onyx. Report to me everything
that is said. I know the others will do the same."
     Onyx narrowed his dark orbs as he noticed Beryl was crying. He moved
forward and stood behind her. "I know. But, don't lose heart yet."
     "I see...I see us passing into oblivion. Vindalla hopes for a dream..but,
I have no more dreams left, Onyx. They died...long ago."
     Lord Onyx turned and walked out of the room as Queen Beryl buried her head
in her hands weeping.......


     "LUNA!!!!"
     Luna looked up quickly as Artemis shook her. "Wh..what?"
     "Luna...we've received some...visitors. They are from Earth!"
     "Lumeria?" Luna woke up quickly.
     "No..Queen Serenity is still there. They haven't returned yet. Sailors
Chronos and Mara did a few hours ago but, that isn't why I woke you up! These
are different visitors."
     "Different??" Luna gasped....


     In the center of the main hall, two figures stood surrounded by the Sailor
Senshi. Sailor Venus, new to being a Senshi along with the newer inner Senshi
swallowed nervously. "Okay...who are you people?"
     "Forgive our abrupt arrival." The man bowed. He looked down at his
companion...a silver fox. "I am called...Merlyn. I bring greetings from the
Tuatha de Daanan. A race that the people of Earth would only refer to as elven."
     "Elven?" Sailor Mercury asked. She was scanning with her new
computer..still getting used to it. "I have heard rumors of some sort of race
like that on the Earth. But, we never found any real evidence. Sailor Chronos
would know best."
     Sailor Mars nodded. "So what do we do now?"
     The silver fox smiled. "I am called Arianrod. And unless I'm mistaken, the
proper thing to do with diplomats is welcome them."
     "You didn't exactly arrive with an official herald." Sailor Jupiter said.
"You took us by surprise, I'm afraid."
     "There are more of you then us." Merlyn laughed. "I think it's safe to
assume we're not a threat to you. I am aware of the negotiations going on
between your Imperium and the nations below of Lumeria and Atlantis. Lumeria
does not know of our existence...and apparently neither did you till now."
     "I guess not." Sailor Mercury said. "Are you here then to open
negotiations?"
     "Yes, we are." Merlyn held up a pouch. "I know that Queen Serenity will be
back today. As you can tell, we know quite a bit about you. Please don't find
this unusual..it's just the way my people the Tuatha are."
     A man stepped forward. "Welcome, Merlyn...Arianrod. I'm Minister Alcon."
He indicated the two cats next to him. "This is Luna and Artemis. I'll have
some refreshments prepared for you."
     "Excellent." Merlyn grinned at Arianrod. "Shall we enjoy ourselves a bit
before jumping into this?"
     "Oh by all means." Arianrod laughed. "Thank you very much, Minister
Alcon...."

     Sailors Chronos, Mara, Uranus, and Neptune arrived to see the two visitors
being welcomed. Uranus shook her head. "For years we don't even approach Earth
and now...they are visiting us."
     "It does appear to be the beginning of a new age." Neptune echoed.
"Perhaps it will be a good one."
     Mara sighed. "Well...one thing's for sure...we can't stop it."
     Sailor Chronos listened to the visitors talking to everyone as they were
asked questions. "The region they are describing they are from..and their
accents. I wonder..." Chronos went forward..
     "Alyssa?" Mara asked.
     Chronos walked up to Merlyn. "Excuse me? Ambassador Merlyn?"
     Merlyn smiled. "Well, not quite so official a title but, it will do. You
are?"
     "Sailor Chronos." Chronos surveyed him a moment. "You said that you're from
the British isles?"
     "The humans in that region call it that. We have other names." Merlyn
grinned. "Did you wish something?"
     "Have you heard of a place called "Londonium?"
     Merlyn looked at Arianrod. "Yes...I believe we've been there."
     "Definitely." Arianrod agreed.
     Chronos nodded. "I was curious. My mother was from that region."
     "Really?" Merlyn laughed. "Perhaps I knew her?"
     "I doubt it." Chronos dropped her autocratic air for a moment and smiled.
"It was long ago that she was there. She lives on Chronos now."
     "Ahhh yes but, we live quite long ourselves..." Merlyn chuckled. "I'd love
to talk longer but, I've got these other people also trying to learn more about
us. I imagine when Queen Serenity returns, there will be plenty of time for us
to talk."
     "Thank you for your time." Chronos bowed and looked hard at Merlyn before
returning to the Sailor Senshi.
     "Friends from your mother's homeland?" Sailor Mara winked at her.
     Chronos nodded slowly and continued to stare at Merlyn. "Maybe....but
until we know more...let's watch them."
     "Count on that." Sailor Neptune said. "They arrived without even a
warning."
     "And if they are enemies..." Sailor Uranus smiled. She made her right
hand into a fist and smacked it hard into her left. Neptune giggled.

     The shock of the visitors unexpected arrival swept through the Imperium.
In a matter of hours, delegates who had planned to arrive and meet the
Lumerians and Prince Endymion, arrived early. Merlyn and Arianrod found
themselves in the middle of a convention that would lead in the future to
terrifying results.....



                       Chapter Eleven: Silver Millenium

     Queen Serenity stared at Merlyn before smiling and extending her hand.
     "On behalf of my people, I welcome you to the Silver Millenium."
     Merlyn grinned and shook the Queen's hand. "Millenium? I thought it was
the Silver Imperium?"
     "It has been called both. It's usually referred to as the Imperium."
     "I see." Merlyn smiled at Arianrod. "We'll call it the Silver Millenium.
It sounds better, don't you think?"
     "Yes, and, it's very nice here." Arianrod wrapped her tail around herself
and chuckled. "How long have you been here, Queen Serenity?"
     The Queen sighed. "Thousands and thousands of years. When the Earth was
still young...we have always watched over it."
     "Then you consider yourselves protectors of the Earth?" Vindalla asked.
     Everyone turned to her. Her look was one who was trying to understand
something she wasn't sure of.
     "In a way..." Serenity smiled. "We have always made it our policy to never
interfere in Earth nations. We have watched from afar...."
     "Until now with Atlantis." Vindalla said quietly.
     Queen Serenity looked at everyone. "Well...I have stated my reasons to
Queen Beryl regarding that matter."
     Lord Onyx looked around. "It's very beautiful here, Queen Serenity. Thank
you for letting us visit it."
     "You are most welcome." The Queen nodded to some men. "Please bring
refreshments for our guests and have lodging readied."
     "Already done, Queen Serenity." the man smiled and indicated that the
table nearby in the main hall was being set up and prepared for a great feast.
     Duke Kinches looked at Vindalla who seemed to be examining everything with
great interest. "May we see all of the Imperium?" he asked.
     "Of course." Queen Serenity laughed. "I would not invite you up here and
only show you the Moon. The other planets in the Imperium know you are here.
     Merlyn laughed. "Oh please my lady, not another grilling session as
before? I am still worn out from those continued questions."
     Vindalla glared at him. "You really can't blame them, or us. Your race is
a complete mystery although, I have heard rumors through my travels.."
     "Well, we'll have plenty of time to get to know each other, won't we?"
Merlyn grinned. He accepted a glass as he was handed it by a man passing
drinks. "Queen Serenity, I'd like to propose a toast...to new friendships!"
     Everyone raised their glass and drank deeply. Duke Kinches looked around.
"I don't see Princess Serenity or Prince Endymion. Did they go somewhere?"
     Queen Serenity nodded. "She wanted him to meet her friends. They'll be
back in a few hours I imagine. For now, please make yourself comfortable......"


     Sailor Mercury looked at Prince Endymion. "So...this is the man you want
to marry???" she asked in an astonished voice. "But, he's from Earth!"
     Princess Serenity smiled and took Endymion's arm. "Yes but, that doesn't
matter. What matters is, we love each other very much and we want to be
together."
     Sailor Venus grinned and hugged Serenity. "I'm so happy for you! Maybe one
of these days I'll find someone too!"
     "You don't have time for a boyfriend with your duties as a Senshi!" Sailor
Mars glared at her. "But someday maybe."
     Sailor Jupiter sighed. "To find love at so young an age...but on Earth
it's a common thing I have heard."
     "True, they do tend to marry young in the more primitive kingdoms." Sailor
Mercury answered. She looked closer at the Prince.
     Endymion laughed. "Primitive? Is that how you people think of us?"
     Serenity giggled. "Not all of you. But, you have to admit that, the rest
of Earth is not like Atlantis and certainly not like Lumeria. Now, these other
people have shown up."
     "There is more to Earth then we ever thought." Sailor Venus sighed. "I
wonder what the future will be like with all these changes? A new golden age
perhaps that will surpass this one?"
     "Who can say." Sailor Mercury took out her computer and began to scan the
Prince. "His physiology is not very different from our own. Of course, there
are slight differences but, nothing that should interfere with you two being
together."
     Princess Serenity giggled again and hugged the Prince "You see Endymion?
It's all going to work out perfect for us."
     Prince Endymion smiled and stroked her hair while looking at the Sailor
Senshi smiling at him. "Thank you everyone." he said.
     "Hey!" Sailor Venus grinned. "I almost forgot, Serenity! We have a belated
birthday present for you!"
     Serenity turned and blushed. "You didn't have to..."
     "Of course we did." Sailor Mars handed her a box. "You're the Princess!
How would we look if we didn't get you anything for your birthday?"
     "You're my friends." Serenity smiled and looked at Endymion. "But, the
other day in Atlantis was the best birthday I ever had."
     Endymion nodded. "Happy birthday, Princess."
     "Open the box!" Sailor Jupiter grinned.
     Serenity set the box on her lap and pulled back the golden wrapping and
the silver ribbons. She opened the box and gasped in wonder. "It's a...a Sailor
Senshi outfit!!!"
     Sailor Venus giggled. "Your mother has had you do some training with us
and, even though you yourself will never be a true Senshi, we felt that making
you part of the team would be cool. So, we had Sailor Neptune make this for
you."
     Serenity took the outfit out of the box and admired the blue and red
colors. The red boots and jewels matched. "This is one of the most beautiful
things I have ever seen. So...I guess I'm...Sailor Moon now?"
     "Of course!" Mars grinned. "When you get a chance put it on and, you can
train with us. But, Sailor Mara and Uranus are pretty tough though." she
giggled.
     "I will...thank you everyone." Serenity wiped the tears of happiness from
her eyes. "You're all so very good to me. I have everything I could want. And
now..." she smiled at Endymion, "I have my love too. Everything is perfect."

     Later that evening after dinner, a great ball was held. People
continued to marvel at how fast events were unfolding. The new visitors
were greeted warmly by the Kings and Queens of the respective Imperium
planets. In all this, Vindalla silently watched only speaking when she
felt it was necessary...
     Duke Kinches noticed she was alone in the corner. She was watching
the two new visitors as they smiled and talked with Queen Serenity and
others. "Vindalla?"
     She looked up. "Kinches?"
     "Are you alright?" his face was filled with concern.
     "Yes...but this is all too pat for me."
     "Too pat?" Kinches sat down. "Do you mean the new visitors?"
     Vindalla nodded slowly continuing to watch everyone. "They happen to
show up at the exact moment that Queen Beryl decides to break our silence
and approach Atlantis. Now...there is a new element here."
     "I fail to see..." Duke Kinches began.
     Vindalla raised her hand to silence him. "I believe Kinches that the
existence of these people was already known to Queen Serenity. I also
believe that it's her intention to form a coalition of nations to sway
Atlantis away from us."
     "I don't think she has any intention of that." Kinches smiled.
"You're being paranoid."
     "Look at the facts, Kinches. If you wanted to put pressure on another
nation from being too close to your friends...what would you do?"
     Duke Kinches watched Arianrod laugh and roll on the floor at
something that Princess Serenity had said. "I...I would form a group of
nations that would support me, if I could."
     "Exactly." Vindalla nodded. "Lord Onyx is playing the diplomat. He
speaks with Queen Serenity while I stand back and observe. What I see is
us being set up for a situation that when we try to give Atlantis
technology and help, the Silver Millenium will step in and with the
support of the Tuatha and their friends stop us! It makes perfect sense to
me. Our nation will be the one that is left isolated."
     "I thought we were friends...and allies." Kinches whispered.
     "We are. But, in alliances, there are those who form "cliques" with
others. I think when the time comes for us to follow Queen Beryl's plan
and unite with Atlantis, these nations will not allow it. There is only
one thing left to do."
     "Talk to the Atlanteans?" Kinches answered.
     "I consider them a loss. Queen Serenity's..." Vindalla bowed her head
and spat out the words..."Millenium...will control all! She obviously has
been planning this for some time. I therefore will follow my instincts and
look for a source from outside Earth to help us. Queen Serenity may
control outer space but, I doubt she knows much about inner space! I will
pursue this and when I am ready, I will notify Queen Beryl. For now.." she
stood up and smiled.."we must look as if we suspect nothing. Dance with me?"
     Kinches nodded and took her hand. As he took Vindalla to the dance floor,
he found his heart being torn...between his love for Vindalla...and his
feelings that all of this she had just said...seemed wrong....

     "Hey everyone, over here!" Princess Serenity giggled.
     Sailor Saturn smiled as she saw a holo-camera being set up. "Oh no.
Princess Serenity has the camera bug again."
     Sailor Neptune sighed. "And so we must all assemble once again for the
yearly group photo."
     Queen Serenity smiled. "It makes her happy. And me."
     All of the Senshi came over and stood as one while the assemblage at the
ball watched. Princess Serenity stood with them holding hands with Prince
Endymion. "I hope you don't mind being in the photo with me, Endymion."
     "I'm glad I'm with you." Endymion grinned. "And, I like your friends."
     Sailor Venus giggled. "Okay everyone...smile!!!"
     Queen Serenity put her arms around Sailor Jupiter and Sailor Chronos who
stood next to her. "After this, I'd like one with our new friends."
     "YES! That would be wonderful, Mother!" The Princess giggled. "Things are
just so perfect for us all now!"
     The photo was taken and, Queen Serenity asked all of the ambassadors to
come over. Merlyn sighed. "All this diplomacy is getting tiresome."
     Arianrod laughed. "Well...it's for Queen Serenity and, she seems very nice
so, I don't mind."
     "Please everyone..gather together." Minister Alcon smiled at Luna and
Artemis. "You two get in there too."
     Luna smiled. "Oh why not, it should be fun."
     "Too crowded." Artemis commented. His look of exasperation gave way to a
grin as Luna realized he was kidding."
     "You jerk!" she said. She punched him playfully.
     Vindalla stood with Kinches as the Sailor Senshi grouped around them. She
smiled at everyone and showed happiness but inside, her fear of her people
being pushed aside and left alone tore at her. All of Beryl's plans were laid
waste. She knew unless she could do something...it would be all over.
     Later after the photos were taken, Vindalla approached Merlyn. "Ambassador
Merlyn, may I speak with you?"
     "Oh, of course." Merlyn grinned. "I am honored to be addressed by so
beautiful a lady."
     "Indeed?" Vindalla laughed. "I cannot help but be a bit curious about
your people. Now that you have contacted the Imperium, what is your goal?"
     Merlyn shrugged. "To promote trade and peace. To form a closer bond with
them."
     "Why did you not approach my people if you knew of our existence?"
     "Because we didn't feel the time was right. We waited until your Queen
Beryl made the first move with Atlantis. When the Millenium came down, we then
revealed ourselves."
     "And are you native to Earth?"
     Merlyn laughed. "More native then you are." He noticed her frown and
sighed. "I think that things may be difficult with all of us but, there's
no reason we can't trust each other...don't you agree?"
     "I would say that depends on the limits of that trust. You showed up
out of the blue without even a warning. What are your nation's plans? Do
you plan to join the Imperium?"
     "As friends and allies.." Merlyn nodded. "But, we'll still be a
separate nation. But, you should relax. This is a wonderful new beginning
for us all. I'm sorry we didn't approach Lumeria sooner. It just didn't
seem the right time."
     Vindalla looked past him at Arianrod laughing and playing with the
younger Sailor Senshi. "No...I guess it wasn't. But, no matter. We're
friends now. I assume that your nation will then form the same ties to
Lumeria as it will to the Imperium?"
     "In time yes." Merlyn smiled. "We are still getting used to the idea
of allying with the Millenium."
     "And you cling to the name Millenium because you hope to see this
alliance last for thousands of years?" Vindalla glared at him. "Forgive me
Merlyn but, you seem to be dancing around the issue. You must understand
my point of view on this."
     "I fail to see why you're so intense over this." Merlyn sighed. "I will
be glad to visit Lumeria when I am done here and show Queen Beryl our
intentions are clearly honorable to everyone. We did not mean to offend by
not contacting your people first."
     "Accepted." Vindalla smiled. "I'll notify her then to expect to hear
from you."
     Merlyn heard Arianrod call him and bowed. "I'll talk to you later then,
dear lady." He turned and walked away.
     "Do you see a pattern here?" a voice said behind Vindalla.
     She looked quickly and saw Lord Onyx. His face held a grave expression.
     "All of this Onyx...the pleasantries...the smiles...it's all false. I will
look at the rest of this so-called "Millenium" and if I don't like what I see,
I want you to back me up when I tell Queen Beryl that we can't trust them."
     "I already back you." Onyx said quietly. "I'm not sure Duke Kinches does."
     Vindalla glared at him. "Leave that issue alone, Onyx. I intend to find us
an ally. I have already been making preliminaries should they be needed.
Looking at the sudden appearance of the Tuatha and who knows what other allies
they have...it's obvious Queen Serenity has been planning this."
     "I agree with your assessment." Onyx whispered.
     "Then be there when I need you. Convincing the "Ocean of Light" and our
regular Generals will not be easy. We may very well find our backs against the
wall. Princess Serenity plans to marry Prince Endymion. Such an alliance would
also put Atlantis against us. I can't allow that to happen. I love our people
far too much to allow us to be subverted by any so-called "Millenium!"
     Lord Onyx nodded. "I shall be here when you require me." He bowed and went
back over to mingle with the others....

     The following week, Prince Endymion marveled in the wonders of the Silver
Imperium. He visited all the planets with everyone and saw a light and goodness
that didn't exist on Earth. His heart grew even closer to Princess Serenity and
he was constantly with her.
     Duke Kinches friendship with Prince Endymion drew them closer as he
continued to show the Prince different methods of "mind over matter." But, even
as that friendship grew, he felt his own love being slowly removed from him.
Vindalla was very distant and seemed to be always watching. He knew she was
very suspicious of the Imperium. The arrival of the Tuatha had not helped in
that regard. Lord Onyx too seemed to be distant. Friendly on the outside but,
Kinches could tell he too was unsure of this situation. It made Kinches feel
isolated even more....
     At last as the week ended, the visitors from Earth readied themselves to
return home. Queen Serenity smiled. "Thank you all for coming. Please feel free
to return at any time. We will be setting up a communication network with all
our nations if there is no objection to that?"
     "Why not." Merlyn grinned. "Arianrod and I will be coming and going a lot.
But, keeping in contact is an excellent idea. Our trade with you will begin
within the week."
     The Queen nodded and turned to Prince Endymion. "I know that you will be
here quite a lot." She smiled at her daughter. "I know Serenity doesn't want
you to go."
     Endymion smiled and hugged the Princess close. "But, we won't be apart
much. I'll be back in a few days. You're going to establish a means to transport
us as well?"
     Queen Serenity turned to Minister Alcon. "You'll handle that won't you
Alcon? I can't have my Sailor Senshi having to constantly be used as
transporters."
     Alcon laughed. "Yes, I'll take care of it. I don't want to see Princess
Serenity alone for too long. She can be such a whiner sometimes..."
     Serenity glared at him. "I DONT whine!" She giggled. "Well..maybe a little
sometimes. Thank you, Alcon."
     "No problem." he winked.
     Endymion hugged Serenity close. "I'll miss you. But, we'll be together
forever soon."
     Vindalla glanced quickly at Kinches then smiled. "Queen Serenity thank you
so much for inviting us. I was quite impressed by everything I saw. Please
thank the planetary rulers for us. I look forward to seeing you all again
soon."
     The Queen took Vindalla's hands. "I hope that your visit has resolved any
fears or concerns you or Queen Beryl might have had concerning us. All we want
is your friendship."
     "And us as well." Vindalla smiled and looked quickly at Merlyn and
Arianrod. "It was...a most informative visit."
     The two Tuathan ambassadors waved goodbye and teleported out. Queen
Serenity nodded to the Sailor Senshi who formed a ring and put Vindalla, Onyx,
Kinches, and Endymion in the center..."SAILOR....TELEPORT!!!!" they shouted.

     As they disappeared, Princess Serenity smiled and hugged her mother. "I
can't wait to marry him, mother."
     "Yes..." The Queen frowned. "I just hope that everyones fears are over.
Convincing the planets in the Imperium of your marriage to Prince Endymion will
be difficult enough without outside concerns..."

     
     Vindalla entered her temple and closed her eyes..."Metallia...are you
here?"
     "I am here." the voice of Metallia said.
     "It's worse then I feared. Another nation called the Tuatha is now
involved! They are making overtures to Atlantis and acting as if the Silver
Imperium is also new to them. But I can tell that, this is all a set up!"
     "Your insight serves you well." Metallia's voice took on an edge. "This is
all designed to destroy your people. I can help you. Please bring Queen Beryl
to me."
     "I...I'm still not sure. I'm looking at other ways to.."
     "I thought you said you could trust me." The voice sounded hurt. "You said
the next time you contacted me, you would let me help. How can I assist you if
you won't allow it? Why tell me anything if you don't want my help? There is no
point in this! Either let me help or leave me!"
     "I...I did not mean to offend you." Vindalla sighed. "I just care for my
people so much, I am overly cautious."
     "It is that caution that is going to destroy you!" Metallia said harshly.
"Your people will be consumed by this Imperium! Has everything you feared
come to pass?"
     "More so.." Vindalla whispered. "I want your help...please."
     "Then bring Beryl to me now! And when she does...drop the barriers!"
     Vindalla felt a sudden fear. "I...I'll bring her. But...I'm not ready to
drop the barriers just yet."
     "As you wish." Metallia's voice sounded nonchalant. "It is your nation
that is being destroyed by this evil. I can help but, you must be willing to
trust me."
     Vindalla ended the link. Purposefully, she left the temple and took her
vehicle to Queen Beryl's castle. As she moved toward Beryl's room, the voice of
Metallia continued to echo through her head. Was Metallia their nation's
salvation? Did she dare trust this precense...?




                      Chapter Twelve: Fatal Decision!

     Duke Kinches stood looking out over the ocean from the central balcony in
the main hall. The visit to the Silver Imperium had been an interesting one. He
had learned a lot. But, something didn't feel right. It wasn't the Imperium. 
It was Vindalla. And, the more he thought of it, the more it concerned him.
     "Kinches...what are you doing?"
     Turning, he smiled as he saw Vindalla coming to him. Her hair blew in the
wind and, her face looked happy. She was for a moment like the Vindalla he knew
of old. Always happy and full of bright ideas. Always thinking of ways to help
her people.
     "I was..looking at the ocean. Thinking of what it would be like to visit
other nations on Earth."
     "You've been to Atlantis." Vindalla leaned her head against him. "And the
Imperium. Is that not enough? The other nations on Earth would hardly be able
to handle our ways."
     "That's true enough." Kinches was feeling contented for the moment. Having
her lean against him, his heart softened and he stroked her dark hair gently.
They stood together watching the surf crash on the shore. Vindalla smiled.
     "Kinches...I have been thinking. I have a plan that is really going to be
great. As you know, I've been using my magic and skills to contact other
entities and nations through inner space. This world is too primitive and, I
believe that I can improve and help Lumeria in this manner for future
expansionism."
     "You're always thinking of our people." Kinches smiled and hugged her
close to him. "So caring. Sometimes, I don't think Beryl properly appreciates
you."
     "Then will you support me?" She looked at him hopefully. For a moment,
her face was not only beautiful but very young. "I've decided to open a doorway
to another dimension. Not just an astral contact but, an actual one."
     "A doorway to another dimension?" Kinches face changed slightly to
concern. "Isn't that a little dangerous?"
     "I feel great power from it, Kinches. I'm not sure what it is but, I'm
sure it can benefit us."
     "But...it's very dangerous." he repeated.
     "So is dealing with the Silver Millenium." Vindalla's tone changed. Her
lightheartedness faded like a sun behind a cloud. Kinches felt a wrenching in
his heart. "I need your support, Kinches. I have a feeling that this entity can
help us. She is very concerned for the welfare of our people."
     "Does this person have a name?" Kinches asked. The romantic mood that had
been there was gone now. He felt defeated.
     "Metallia. She is much like myself. She looks at the reality of things
and, she agrees, the Imperium is a threat."
     "I...I don't know." Kinches looked into her eyes. "Please give it some
time before you make a final decision. I know you are always telling me that
being careful is important."
     "But...being too careful...may lead to us being destroyed." Vindalla
whispered. She smiled. "I think the Imperium may get a surprise, Kinches. Them
and the Tuatha will see that, we too have allies."
     "Vindalla please..."Kinches felt great pain in his soul. He didn't want to
lose her but, this greatly concerned him. "I really wish that you would..."
     Vindalla glared at him and suddenly, she swung hard slapping his face!
     "KINCHES! I thought I could depend on you. I THOUGHT you loved me! If you
won't support me, that's fine! I'll do what I think is best for our people!
You've seen what the Imperium has! Even Lord Onyx agrees with me on this!"
     "LORD ONYX..." Kinches shouted, "IS A YES MAN!" He turned away. "He's
going to tell you what you want to hear." Turning back again, his eyes were
pleading. "I beg you to reconsider this! I don't feel you've given the Imperium
a proper chance! I think if you just step back away from your fear of our
people being subverted, you'll see this kind of a decision needs more time!"
     Vindalla looked down. "I don't know you anymore. You used to support
anything I thought would help us. You never questioned my judgement when it
came to our people."
     Kinches suddenly hugged her close. "I love you, Vindalla. I love our
people! That's why, I can't let you make this kind of a decision without
contesting it. I feel a goodness from the Silver Imperium. They aren't evil.
You need to see this too."
     For a moment, Vindalla smiled. Then, she turned away. "Thanks, Kinches. We
all have to do what we think is right. Now...I must do what I feel will save us
before it's too late." She pulled away and walked back inside heading for Queen
Beryl's chambers.
     Kinches gripped the edge of the balcony feeling a hopelessness that was
growing. Vindalla was unreasonable now. Her fear of the Lumerians being
destroyed had blinded her. He grit his teeth. Another dimension? An actual
doorway? But...what was on the other side? Who was this...Metallia?

     The knock at the door made Queen Beryl look up. "Come in."
     The door opened and Vindalla walked in. Behind her, Lord Onyx stood
silently.
     "Onyx has told me of your visit with the Silver...Millenium." Beryl said.
Her voice was filled with sadness. "The Tuatha are another race you say?"
     "They are elven." Vindalla sat down. "They have great power. They can
teleport, do magic..many things. They even have science."
     "This is...disquieting." Beryl sighed. "They plan to contact us?"
     "When they get around to it." Vindalla's tone was filled with acid. "I
don't see them too interested in us. They may suspect we're a dying race and
see no sense in it."
     "So it would seem." Beryl looked at Lord Onyx. "Onyx has given me a full
report on his observations while there. I assume yours is the same?"
     Vindalla looked back at Onyx and nodded. "We agree there is concern here.
I would recommend letting the "Ocean of Light" know at the very least. With the
Tuatha and who knows what other allies they have and Princess Serenity's soon
to be marriage to Prince Endymion, any hope of uniting with Atlantis is now
lost to us."
     "Then...what do we do?" Beryl buried her face in her hands. "Do we simply
let this Millenium come and take over?"
     "They claim to be protectors of the Earth." Lord Onyx said. "Yet...they
now seem to be moving away from that non-interference role. At least where
Atlantis is concerned. I have already stated my concerns."
     "Yes..you did." Beryl whispered.
     Vindalla leaned forward. "Queen Beryl...all is not lost. I have a solution
to this deplorable situation. But, I need you to trust me."
     Beryl looked up. "What solution?"
     "What we need is something to equalize this problem. The Tuatha are very
much united with the Imperium. So shall be Atlantis soon. We need an outside
source that they will not know about. Then, if we do need help...it will come
and defend us!"    
     "Outside source from...where?" Beryl's voice sounded weak.
     Vindalla smiled. "Inner space. I have made a powerful contact that I know
will assist us. Her name is, Metallia. She seems to be leader of a great force.
I feel we can trust her. She wants to meet with you. I will accomplish this by
setting up a link and letting you speak with her directly. If you feel it is
safe, I will drop the barriers which permit entry and you can invite her to
stay with us. We can then discuss alliances."
     "Metallia." Beryl nodded. "I see no harm in speaking to her. But, Duke
Kinches did give a different report on the Imperium. He feels we can trust
them."
     "Kinches...is blinded by their ways." Vindalla bowed her head.
     "Usually you two agree on things." Beryl smiled. "Your feelings..."
     "It doesn't matter what I feel for Kinches." Vindalla interrupted. "What
matters is the good of our people. I have made a career of it. Will you go with
me to my temple and speak to Metallia now, Queen Beryl?"
     Beryl was silent a moment. Then, she stood up. "Very well. Let us go. I am
out of ideas. I will listen to yours now....."

     Duke Kinches looked up as he heard footsteps coming down the hallway.
Queen Beryl was approaching with Vindalla and Lord Onyx. Behind Onyx walked
Generals Jedeite and Kunzite.
     "Queen Beryl," Kinches began, "I must speak with you..."
     "Later, Duke Kinches. Right now, I am on important buisness."
     Kinches looked at Vindalla who gave him a slight smile as she passed then,
they were gone....
     For a moment he stared at the doorway they had left through. He could hear
the Queen's vehicle driving off with them. Driving off...to Vindalla's temple!
     Kinches felt an overpowering fear. He didn't know why. He reached in his
pocket and pulled out a small cloth bag..and within..two golden rings. He had
bought them as gifts for Princess Serenity and Prince Endymion. He had planned
to visit Endymion soon. Now...it seemed it would be sooner then he thought. He
no longer had a voice here. Queen Beryl's ears were deaf to anything he might
say. Vindalla was too blinded by her fears and those fears may very well be the
end of them. This...Metallia. Kinches had no idea what it was but...something
told him...it was terrifying!
     Kinches moved purposefully through the doorway and down to the docks. The
great ships of Lumeria were there. He nodded to guards as he passed...
     "One moment Sir!"
     Kinches looked. "Soldier..is there a problem?"
     The men came forward. "Sir, may I see your authorization from Queen
Beryl?"
     "Authorization!" Kinches face fell. "I...I'm Duke Kinches! I have full
authorization to use any ship I need for any.."
     "Sir, I'm sorry but, that authorization has been revoked. Queen Beryl has
ordered that no ships are to leave the continent."
     "No ships...?" Kinches swore angrily. Vindalla! She had Beryl believing
that he might try something contrary to her plan..and thus had advised her not
to allow anyone to interfere! She was a step ahead of him...as usual. Kinches
swore again and looked at the ships. "I need to go to Atlantis. It's very
urgent, soldier."
     The men looked at each other. Then, they aimed their staffs at him. "Sorry
Sir. We can't permit that."
     Kinches felt his heart sinking as he realized...he was trapped...


     Queen Beryl looked around as she entered the temple. "You've made some
improvements since the last time I was here. Very beautiful. Now, show me this
Metallia you have contacted."
     Vindalla nodded to Onyx who shut the doors. Generals Jedeite and Kunzite
looked at each other and remained standing. Vindalla went down on her knees in
the center of the pentagram then moved to the edge of it. Then, she opened her
mind... "Are you here, Metallia? It is I."
     "YES!" a voice echoed throughout the room. Queen Beryl turned startled.
The two Generals looked nervous. Lord Onyx stood like a silent statue unfazed.
     "I have brought my Queen." Vindalla smiled. "I have established the link
so you can speak with her directly and she can learn about you."
     There was a moment of silence. Then...the voice echoed...
     "QUEEN BERYL..WELCOME. I AM...METALLIA. I HAVE HEARD YOUR DESIRE TO BE RID
OF YOUR ENEMIES. I CAN HELP."
     Queen Beryl nodded. "I'm not sure they are enemies. But, we are
outnumbered by a great empire. We need support. What sort of help can you give
us?"
     "I AM POWER!" the voice echoed. "I AM SHE THAT CAN END YOUR FEARS. I WILL
MAKE YOUR PEOPLE GREAT! YOU QUEEN BERYL WILL BECOME A GODDESS. YOU WILL RULE
ALL WITH MY HELP."
     "A goddess." Beryl whispered. "I...I want my people to be happy. I want
them to live forever. This...Silver Millenium. They have eternal life. Can you
give that to my people?"
     "I CAN." the voice boomed. "I CAN GIVE THEM LIFE...POWER...I CAN BRING
THEM SECURITY. TRUST ME AND, YOU WILL BE A GREAT NATION ONCE MORE. WHAT DO YOU
DESIRE?"
     Beryl looked at Vindalla who stood silently watching. She nodded. "I
desire all of this, Metallia. I desire to be a goddess! I desire to have my
people be strong so no one can hurt us! We have been hurt too much in the past!
We are a dying race! If you can change that...I will trust you."
     "I CAN GIVE YOU ALL THAT...AND MORE." Metallia answered. "INSTRUCT YOUR
PRIESTESS TO LOWER THE BARRIERS...SO THAT WE MAY SEE EACH OTHER AND MEET
PROPERLY. FROM THERE, WE WILL BUILD A POWER THAT NONE CAN DEFEAT!"
     Beryl hesitated a moment. Then, she turned to Vindalla. "Very well.
Priestess Vindalla...drop the barriers of protection. Allow Metallia to come
through your conduit."
     Vindalla nodded then, she felt a sudden fear. "I...just a moment Queen
Beryl. I think you should learn more..."
     "YOU DON'T TRUST ME VINDALLA?" the voice boomed. "I CAN GIVE YOUR PEOPLE
ETERNAL LIFE. OR, IS IT PERHAPS YOU DON'T DEEM YOUR PEOPLE WORTHY OF SUCH AN
HONOR? YOU WILL NEVER KNOW IF YOU LET YOUR FEARS RULE YOU..."
     Vindalla smiled. "Very well...I will do as you ask. Queen Beryl...open
your mind...."


     Duke Kinches sighed. "I...I understand men. Doing your duty is important."
He started to turn away.
     The two soldiers relaxed and in that instant, Kinches moved too fast for
the eye to see and slammed them together. Gasping, they fell unconscious...
     As Kinches moved past them, he saw in the distance, the top of Vindalla's
temple. But...what was that...over it..? He gasped as a great cloud seemed to
form. His heart beating faster, Kinches ran to the nearest ship and ran up the
ramp.
     "HOLD IT!!" a shout sounded.
     Kinches froze as a staff was inches from his stomach..it's power crystal
glowing. Lt. Ember glared at him. "I don't know what you think your doing Sir
but.."
     "EMBER!" he shouted. "I don't have time to explain. I must get to
Atlantis! They must be warned!"
     Ember's eyes grew as she looked past him. "What in the name of...?"
     Kinches turned and gasped as he saw the cloud growing darker. It seemed to
take on a shape...a shape of something terrifying!

     "GET OUT OF HERE!" Kinches screamed. He shoved Ember inside and slammed
the door shut. Running hard, he heard Ember on his heels as he flew through the
corridors and reached the control room. He jumped in the control seat and began
flipping switches. Nothing happened. He spun and stared at Ember, his eyes
wild. "ACCESS CODE!"
     "I..can't." Ember whispered. "Not without.."
     "YOU FOOL!" he shouted. He pointed out the windshield. "DO YOU SEE THAT??
Vindalla has called something from another dimension! It's going to destroy us
all unless I get help!"
     Ember stammered out the code and, Kinches fired the engines into life. "I
have to get to Atlantis! I have to warn them and the Imperium..or we're all
finished!"
     As the small ship began to move, the darkness that covered the temple
like a cancer moved outward to consume the city....


     Inside the temple, the two Generals screamed as a darkness suddenly
invaded. A darkness so thick they couldn't see. Queen Beryl in the heart of it
wailed in agony as it consumed her soul. Her essence was torn from her and
ripped to reform into something that was once only a shadow of her former self.
Her physical form was altered. Her skin color grew lighter and, horns grew on
her shoulders. Her eyes began to change....
     Vindalla screamed realizing the terrifying error she had made! She grit
her teeth and used all her power to try to shut the conduit. Her mind grappled
for an instant with this dark evil. But, she found herself being smothered!
Screaming, she was thrown crying into the far wall!
     Not yet taken over, she looked up and saw the wraith form of Queen Beryl
floating toward her.
     "VINDALLA...THANK YOU FOR HELPING ME TO COME TO YOUR WORLD! NOW...I WILL
DO AS YOU WISHED. I WILL MAKE YOUR PEOPLE GREAT...BUT THEY WILL BE MINE!!
     "You're..you're not...Beryl." Vindalla whimpered. Tears flowed from her eyes
as the room became darker. "Oh..oh my god!"
     "I'm still Beryl." Beryl's voice suddenly sounded normal. "But, Metallia
has opened my eyes. She has shown me what we should have done." She turned to
her two Generals who stood waiting. The darkness had consumed them and now,
they were part of it.
     "General Jedeite...General Kunzite!"
     "YES METALLIA!" they shouted together.
     Vindalla swallowed in terror. "No..Oh god no...."
     Beryl smiled. "You'll be with us soon Vindalla. Don't worry. I wouldn't
think of destroying the Silver Millenium..and everything else..without you."
     As Vindalla shook in terror in the corner, Beryl turned to her two
Generals.
     "Assemble my Staff. Bring Generals Zoisite and Nephlite here. You four
will no longer be Generals. I shall make you Kings! You shall be known as the
Four Kings! You will each rule a part of this world once we have destroyed our
enemies! NOTHING WILL STAND IN OUR WAY!!!!!"
     Vindalla looked at the door. Slowly, she began to move. She had to warn
her people! She had to stop this evil she had brought down upon them all!
     *KINCHES!!!!" she shouted with her mind, *WARN THEM!! WARN THEM ALL!!!!*

     Vindalla screamed as suddenly a bolt of light slammed into her. A dark
shape hung in the air over the wraith that had once been Queen Beryl. Beryl
laughed. "I have a special purpose for you, Vindalla. You are too ambitious to
be a mere Priestess. You have served your purpose. I will now make use of your
other talents!"
     "Talents?" Vindalla whispered in terror.
     "YOU SHALL BECOME ONE OF MY LESSER COMMANDERS." Metallia's voice echoed.
"BECAUSE YOU TRIED TO CLOSE THE CONDUIT. YOU SHALL BE KNOWN AS COMMANDER
VINDALLA. AND YOU SHALL LEAD THOSE KNOWN AS...THE OCEAN OF LIGHT! BUT...THERE
IS NO MORE LIGHT. SO SHALL THEY NOW BE CALLED...THE OCEAN OF DARKNESS...THEY
ARE...FEDKEL UMI!!!!"
     Vindalla screamed as the darkness ripped into her. No longer able to fight
it, she felt the very essence of her soul consumed by this evil. Her last
thoughts before she lost all feeling were for Kinches..a man she would always
love..and never have...

     Within minutes, the evil began to consume all of Lumeria. People who were
once happy became shadows of their former selves. The city fell into darkness.
Metallia's spirit hung over the continent and laughed...
     Queen Beryl turned to Vindalla. "Commander Vindalla...soon we shall begin
our destruction of the accursed Silver Millenium. How shall we proceed?"

     The evil woman dressed in black turned to her Queen. "It is quite simple,
Queen Beryl. We must first destroy the two inner defense planets of the Silver
Millenium. The worlds of Chronos and Mara. Chronos is the first defense planet.
It would be the most threat."
     "Then we must start with Chronos." Queen Beryl smiled wickedly. "Metallia
approves of your plan. But...how will you proceed?"
     "I WILL ASSIST YOU!" the voice of Metallia echoed. "USING YOUR POWERS, I
WILL USE YOU TO UNLEASH SOMETHING SO POWERFUL, QUEEN SERENITY WILL NEVER BE
ABLE TO STOP IT! A BEING THAT DEVOURS LIFE ITSELF. IT MAY DESTROY THE ENTIRE
SILVER MILLENIUM. THEN, WE SHALL PROCEED WITH THE CONQUERING OF ALL EARTH...AND
BEYOND!"

     The Generals all nodded with approval. Queen Beryl smiled. "Our glorious
Metallia shall rule all! She shall make us a great nation once more! We shall
crush our enemies! Once we have destroyed the Millenium, we will destroy all
others in our path!"
     
     "Where is Duke Kinches?" Lord Onyx asked. His eyes were dark as night.
     Vindalla looked up. "Kinches...is not here. Nor is Lt. Ember. They..."
     "THEY HAVE ESCAPED TO ATLANTIS!" Metallia echoed. "I WILL PROCEED WITH MY
PLAN AT ONCE! Vindalla...prepare yourself..."

     Queen Beryl turned to Generals Kandow and Jikell. "You are no longer
Generals. You are Sorcerrors! Feel my power!" She bathed them with dark energy.
"I charge you both with this mission...to take your forces...and destroy
Atlantis!"

     The two men bowed and teleported out. Vindalla opened her mind and reached
outward. The dark energy filled her...merged with her soul. "HEAR ME ANCIENT
ONE!" she shouted.
     A form began to take shape in the center of the pentagram. "Who has
summoned me?" A woman stood looking at everyone with a smirk on her face.
     Vindalla looked at Queen Beryl.."This...this is the entity that will
destroy Chronos?"
     "And much more." Beryl smiled. "Command her."
     Vindalla turned back to the woman. "What manner of being are you?"
     "I am known as...Eternia. I am a Chronovore. I live outside the boundaries
of time and space. Time has no meaning to me. I consume life energy. Why have
you summoned me?"
     Vindalla nodded. Metallia's plan was perfect. "To feed." She smiled. "I
ask you to destroy all life in this system with the exception of this world.
Leave it in peace. I only ask that you destroy the fourth planet first. It is
called...Chronos. Once you have destroyed it, please feed off the fifth and any
others you wish in any order."
     The woman nodded. "Your terms are accepted. I shall leave this world
unharmed."
     "Go then..." Vindalla released the field and, the Chronovore faded out...

     SOON..."Metallia's voice echoed. "THERE SHALL BE ONLY ONE KINGDOM LEFT IN
THIS UNIVERSE....THE DARK KINGDOM!!!!!!"


    

                   Chapter Thirteen: Imperium Politics!

     The room fell into a hushed silence as Queen Serenity nodded. "It is as I
said. Princess Serenity and Prince Endymion have made their decision."
     King Holar stood up. "This...this is insane! An earthman ruling the
Imperium? I won't stand for it! Mars will not support such idiocy!"
     "Nor will I!" King Bolva added. "Jupiter also will not support this!
Princess Serenity..you need to rethink this kind of a decision if you're going
to rule the Silver Imperium someday."
     Princess Serenity looked at each of the planetary rulers. Tears filled her
eyes as she realized, the love she and Prince Endymion had would now be tested
to the fullest. "But...we love each other. More then you can know."
     "Love has nothing to do with this!" King Holar snorted. "It has to do with
proper politics! My planet will not submit to an earthman! Especially from
Atlantis! They are not advanced enough to..."
     "I DON'T CARE!" Serenity shouted.
     The room took on a hushed silence. Everyone looked at each other and King
Mosel of Mercury nodded. "Let's hear her out. I have not completely discounted
the idea. We have in the past considered bringing Earth into the Imperium."
     "NOT AS RULER!" King Holar shouted.
     Princess Serenity stood up and moved to the center of the council room.
     "You all rule your own planets and, for thousands of years you have lived
under the rule of my mother. I know that things have been good. But..." she
swallowed. "It's time for me to make decisions that will make me happy in my
life that will last forever."
     "But your decision affects everyone." King Mosel reminded her. "What does
Venus have to say about this?"
     King Sora bowed his head. "Venus will listen to the wisdom of Mercury for
now. I say...hear her out."
     Princess Serenity smiled at him. "Thank you." She looked at her mother who
nodded silently. "Before I went to Earth, I felt something was missing in my
life. I had no idea what. Just before I went...I saw Endymion in my mother's
holo-scanner. I felt something for him before we ever met. When we finally did
meet, I knew he was meant for me. I know that we'll be happy together. So..."
she wiped her tears. "I'm going to marry him. If you don't want him or me
ruling the Imperium...choose someone else. I'll go to Earth with him."
     "WHAT?" King Holar stood up. "You...you can't do that!" He stared at Queen
Serenity. "Queen Serenity, please...talk to her."
     "I have." Serenity smiled. "She has the love in her for Prince Endymion
just as you have had for your respective Queens. I am alone now. But, I have
the Imperium. I will not deny my daughter her love....."


     Sailor Chronos smiled as she watched the Kings bicker. "And so, what was
on Chronos years ago now comes to the forefront. I wonder what King Colma will
have to say?"
     Sailor Mara laughed. "When he found out this issue was being debated, he
didn't even show. Neither did King Zersa, our ruler. Cooincidence?"
     "I would say this is hitting too close to the mark for Colma. I don't
think King Zersa knows. Queen Serenity kept it hushed over well enough." Chronos
laughed suddenly. "It seems like justice. Look at King Holar. He's ready to
explode." She snickered. 
     Sailor Mara nodded. "You seem very happy, Alyssa. But, I'm going to miss
you for a few days."
     "I'll be back in a little while." Sailor Chronos smiled. "I wouldn't miss
helping to train the new Senshi now that I'm considered one of the more
experienced ones."
     "You just keep to yourself too much." Mara winked. "I'll see you soon.
Take care." She turned and walked off....
     Sailor Chronos watched the men bicker for a few more minutes then shook
her head and prepared to leave for home....


     "So what will we do about this matter?" King Mosel smiled. "Holar, do you
plan to go against Queen Serenity?"
     "Of course not!" King Holar sighed. "I just can't see the wisdom in
allowing an earthman to rule the Imperium!"
     King Sora smiled. "Well...perhaps we should look at it from this
perspective. Prince Endymion will not be ruling the Imperium. Princess Serenity
will. She will just be married to him. Is it our buisness who she marries? As
long as the Imperium is run in an efficient manner, what more can we ask? We're
on the edge of a new age. Continents on Earth have opened their doors. The
Tuatha have offered their friendship. It's a glorious time and, Princess
Serenity deserves that happiness." King Sora stood up. "Venus has made it's
decision. Although it is...rather uncharacteristic...we will support the
joining of Prince Endmyion to Princess Serenity. Provided of course that it's
made clear...Princess Serenity will be the new ruler...and not the Prince."
     King Mosel smiled. "Venus at it's greatest wisdom. Your world is truly one
of love. Mercury will also support this."
     Princess Serenity ran and hugged King Sora. "Thank you!" She smiled at
King Mosel. "Thank you both!" She looked expectantly at King  Bolva.
     King Bolva sighed. "I do not wish to split the Imperium. But, even if Mars
and Jupiter also support this...you still have Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto to
deal with...not to mention Chronos and Mara. Sailor Chronos was here..why
didn't she state her world's position?"
     "Sailor Chronos...is too close to this matter." Queen Serenity bowed her
head. "I excused both her and Sailor Mara. The outer planets have given me
their answer. They will not support this marriage. But....that was before the
wisdom of Venus was revealed." She smiled at King Sora. "I will again speak
with the outer planets about this. But, I will begin by making it clear that
Princess Serenity shall rule."
     Everyone nodded assent. King Holar sighed. "Very well. If that is the
case...Mars will support this."
     Princess Serenity cried out with joy and threw herself on him. King Holar
gasped as she squeezed him tight. "King Holar!" she smiled. "Thank you! Thank
you for understanding!"


     Sailor Mars smiled. "Daddy...he always was a pushover."
     "But, isn't it good that she'll be happy?" Sailor Venus giggled. "Someday,
I want to have a man too."
     "Worry about your duties as a Senshi first." Sailor Jupiter laughed.
     "So that means we'll be attending a wedding soon." Sailor Mercury grinned.
"I always wanted to be a bridesmaid."
     "I want to be a bride!" Sailor Venus laughed. "But, I can wait."

     Queen Serenity smiled as the vote was taken. As long as it was understood
Princess Serenity would rule, the Silver Imperium approved her daughter's
marriage. She smiled.
     "I will hold a great ball to honor this decision. And to share my
daughter's joy with everyone."
     Princess Serenity almost glowed with warmth as she looked at the Kings.
She hugged her mother. "Thank you....for allowing us this happiness everyone."
     The Queen hugged her close. "You better tell Prince Endymion. We can't
have him miss the ball...can we?"
     Princess Serenity shook her head then ran off to her friends. "Will you
all go down and bring Endymion here please? I want to get myself ready." She
giggled.
     Sailor Jupiter grinned. "Sure...Sailor Venus and I will go. I always
wanted to see Atlantis."
     "Hey!" Mars glared at her. "We'll all go!"
     Sailor Jupiter shrugged. "I think we better clear it through Sailor Uranus
first or Sailor Mara. They might not want all of us going at once."
     The excited Senshi ran off to find Sailor Uranus....

     "All go down at once?" Uranus looked up. "That's a bit much, don't you
think?"
     Sailor Venus giggled. "But, it would be so much fun."
     Sailor Neptune grinned. "Impulsive..aren't they?"
     "Like little girls." Uranus looked at each of them. "It's times like this
I wish the teleport pads were set up but, Minister Alcon hasn't gotten to it
yet. I can see I'll have to send a World Shaking up his backside to speed him
up some."
     All the girls laughed. Neptune shrugged. "Well...why not? What can it hurt
to let them go?"
     "I guess it can't." Uranus smiled. "Okay...you can go. But be back quick
or, Sailor Mara will be angry. You know you don't want to upset her."
     "Yeah...or Chronos!" Jupiter grinned. "Is it true she's going to be
training us too?"
     "Yep...so you better get serious about being a Senshi. She doesn't smile a
lot." Uranus winked at them.
     The girls moved a little away and formed a circle. "SAILOR...TELEPORT!"
they shouted. The air flashed and, they were gone..


     "You're thinking about her again...aren't you?" Felv sighed.
     Endymion grinned at him. "Even when I'm not with her...I still am."
     Felv swore. "If I had known this was going to happen, I would have never
allowed it. You have a hard choice to make, Prince Endymion."
     "And..I still need to inform my parents." Endymion looked out the window.
"I imagine Serenity is having quite the discussion about this with her people."
     "Must your hearts come first?" Felv shook his head. "I'm only your
bodyguard but...what you and the Princess are doing is...controversial to say
the least."
     "I've never been one to listen to logic anyway." Endymion grinned. "You
know that more than anyone, Felv. We've been friends since we were children."
     "And what will you do if your father forbids the marriage?"
     "Then I'll disobey him and do it anyway."
     Felv swore. "You are a stubborn ass, you know that Endymion? I wonder if
Princess Serenity is just as bad?"
     Endymion shrugged. "I need to go see my parents. If you want, please come
with me. I could use the support."
     "Fool." Felv sighed. "But...I'll go with you."
     Endymion smiled. "You're a good friend, Felv. Thanks for sticking by me."
     "Just don't ask me to join you in exile when you go, okay?"
     Endymion nodded and, the two left his room to head for his father's throne
room....

     King Edicor stared at his son. "You...you what?"
     "I'm going to leave Atlantis...and marry Princess Serenity."
     Queen Karlel looked down. "Endymion...you're our only son. How does Queen
Serenity feel about this?"
     "She has given her blessing." Endymion glanced quickly at Felv who stood
to one side. Felv looked straught ahead at the King.
     King Edicor swore. "Oh, I imagine she has! So, where do you plan to live?
I assume since you're going to be King of Atlantis, it will be here? I have no
problem with you taking a bride...but Serenity is to rule the Imperium. What
will you do? Does she plan to give it up and come here?"
     "We..we haven't quite worked that out." Endymion admitted. "But...I had
considered going there."
     "And abandoning your kingdom and responsibilities on Atlantis? Or does the
Imperium perhaps plan to annex the entire planet!"
     "Edicor please..." Queen Karlel began..
     "NO, I WILL NOT BE SILENT!" Edicor shouted. He glared at his son. "I am all
for your marrying. It's time you thought about it. But, Princess Serenity is
destined to rule a great empire! An empire that we are friends with but that,
I do not wish to be absorbed by! Just as we have left the less advanced
cultures alone and only traded with ones we felt could handle it, the Imperium
has done the same. But...we are a separate nation, Endymion. If you marry
Serenity, we will become one people. Then, what happens?"
     "I imagine we will be part of the Imperium." Endymion shrugged. "Is that
so bad? I love her, father. I won't give her up. I've decided to marry her
regardless of what you and mother think."
     Felv swore under his breath and continued to stare straight ahead.
     "And what of Lumeria?" Queen Karlel sighed. "Won't they regard this
joining as a possible threat?"
     "I've already spoken with Queen Beryl." Endymion sighed. "I gave you my
report when I got back. She desired the same of me but, I don't feel anything
about a marriage of convenience. I love Serenity and, it is her I have chosen.
That will not change."
     Edicor sat down. "I am against this marriage. But, if you are determined
to go through with it, I will demand specific assurances from Queen Serenity.
This nation even if it is joined to the Imperium through marriage will remain
it's own identity. Our culture and ways will not be swept aside in the wake of
an Imperium dynasty! Do you understand that, Endymion?"
     Endymion bowed. "Yes father. Very much so. I assure you, that will never
happen. I love my people just as much. Princess Serenity feels the same."
     Queen Karlel looked at King Edicor who continued to stare at his son. "I
assume from your tone dear that, you are permitting this marriage?"
     Edicor sighed. "Endymion will do it regardless of what I ask. It would be
foolish to exile him. It would accomplish nothing...and I will not do that to
my only son."
     "Father." Endymion went down on one knee.
     King Edicor stood up. "When did you plan for this marriage to take place?"
     Endymion looked up. "Queen Serenity suggested a time of courting. But..we
don't want to wait. We know our love is true. I will convince her to let it be
within a few weeks."
     Queen Karlel moved to him and hugged him close. "Congratulations, my son.
You've grown into a wise man, although somewhat impulsive."
     "Impulsive fits him best, Your Majesties!" Felv growled.
     The King and Queen looked at Felv and laughed. "Yes..but a man he has
become." King Edicor smiled. "We'll make preparations whenever you're ready,
Endymion."

     A man suddenly approached. "Forgive me your highness but, we have visitors
from the Silver Imperium. Sailor Senshi."
     Endymion looked up as several women dressed in Sailor uniforms were
admitted. He recognized them and smiled. "Please..come in."

     The Sailor Senshi approached looking at the throne room.
     "Wow! This is...beautiful!" Sailor Venus giggled.
     "We're honored to be here." Sailor Mercury bowed.
     King Edicor nodded. "To what do we owe this visit?"

     Sailor Jupiter stepped forward. "If it would please, your grace. A great
ball has been planned for this evening. It is to honor the approval of the
Imperium Council to allow the joining between Princess Serenity and Prince
Endymion."
     Endymion looked quickly at his father who gave him a wry look. 
     "Well...I'm glad we got that out of the way! You told us none too soon of
your decision, Endymion."
     Endymion sighed and nodded. "Apparently Serenity was a little faster about
imforming her people of our desires."
     The Sailor Senshi looked at each other. "Did we say something wrong?"
Sailor Mars asked.
     "No.." King Edicor chuckled. "Imperium and Atlantean politics tend to be
similar in nature. Who is invited to this ball?"
     "All of you." Sailor Mercury smiled. "Especially Prince Endymion, of
course. But, if Your Majesties would like to attend, we can arrange it."
     Queen Karlel smiled. "I think that it would be best if we remain. But,
Prince Endymion may go. And..tell Princess Serenity..their marriage has our
blessing."
     Sailor Venus squealed with delight and grabbed the Prince's hand. "That's
wonderful! Let's all go then! Princess Serenity can't wait to see you again,
Prince Endymion!"
     Felv smiled amused. "Shall I accompany as bodyguard, Your Majesty?"
     King Edicor shook his head. "No...it's alright."
     The Sailor Senshi placed Prince Endymion in the center and
concentrated..."SAILOR....TELEPORT!!!!"

     As they disappeared, King Edicor looked up. "Strange...the sky. Is it my
imagination or was it sunny before?"
     Felv glanced out the window. "There do appear to be some dark clouds on
the horizon...probably a summer storm, Your Highness....."

          

                      Chapter Fourteen: Possession!

     Duke Kinches glanced at the monitor screen on the console. "The entire
continent is being absorbed by whatever she has released! If we don't get to
Atlantis fast and somehow reach the Imperium, all life may perish!"
     "Then...then everyone on Lumeria is dead?" Ember gasped.
     "Only if we can't prevent it." Kinches grit his teeth. "Only the Imperium
or the Tuatha can help us now! Technology alone won't be enough to battle that!
If only we had established the communication network before this happened.
I've got no way to warn them if we don't get there."
     Suddenly, Kinches felt a whisper in his mind..a whisper of terror.
*Kinches! Warn them! Warn them all!*
     Ember adjusted a setting on the monitor. "The scanners show that darkness
is moving outward. Vindalla's temple was it's center. How long till we get to
Atlantis?"
     "Vindalla..." he whispered. Feeling his loss, he forced himself to look at
Lt. Ember...
     "An hour at top speed. I should have taken an air vehicle but, there was
no time. It's times like this I wish we could teleport like the Sailor Senshi
do. Ember, is there any way to boost more power in this thing?"
     Ember bowed her head. "No. This is a cargo vehicle and not made for speed.
     But, we should be able to get there before..."

     Kinches swore as suddenly, something slammed into the ship. The impact
spun the vessel sideways and, the magno-flux engines strained as they lost
momentary contact with the earth's magnetic field. A dark cloud seemed to
enclose around them...

     "KINCHES!!!" Ember shouted.
     Duke Kinches got off the floor and turned to see two men hanging in the
air in front of him. "That's....Generals Kandow and Jikell."
     The men smiled wickedly and a dark glow seemed to surround them. Then,
Kandow waved his hand and, the roof tore off the top of the vessel showering
both Kinches and Ember with sparks from broken wires.
     "Nice to see you...Duke Kinches." Jikell laughed.
     "Lt. Ember...are you deserting your post?" Kandow snickered.
     Kinches swore and grabbed the staff that was on the wall. He pointed it at
Kandow. "Come any closer and, I'll kill you, General!"
     Kandow looked at Jikell and they both laughed. "General?" Kandow sneered.
"We are no longer mere General's, you fool! We are Fedkel Umi! We are
Sorcerrors of the elite! We serve Empress Metallia now! Our leaders are Queen
Beryl and Commander Vindalla!"
     Commander Vindalla?" Kinches looked quickly at Ember. Ember backed up
looking for a way out. But, trapped here in the middle of the ocean, there was
no escape!
     Jikell floated closer. "You will both be needed in the new empire which
will soon be born. Empress Metallia's, Dark Kingdom!"
     Ember screamed as Kandow aimed his hand and hit her with dark energy. She
cried out and fell on the floor writhing in terror.
     Kinches saw Jikell aiming at him and concentrated his mind. He saw the
blast hit him and, screamed. His mind grappled with the dark energy that moved
to possess him. Setting up a barrier in his subconscious, he managed to bury
part of himself within. A part the dark energy couldn't touch! That part of him
now reached outward...trying to contact his only hope...

     Sorcerror Kandow smiled as Duke Kinches collapsed and fell to the deck of
the wrecked ship that was now sinking. He nodded to Jikell. "Our mission is
complete. We'll return these two to Metallia."

     Queen Beryl smiled with satisfaction as former General Nadi opened her
eyes. She smiled. "I serve you, Queen Beryl! I serve the Dark Kingdom."
     Vindalla nodded. "Nadi, you will be joining my forces. You will be part of
the Fedkel Umi."
     Nadi bowed. "I am here to serve, Commander."
     Queen Beryl looked up at the holo-image that hung over their heads. "Our
little surprise will soon be reaching Chronos. This will be most entertaining."
     "THE SILVER MILLENIUM WILL BE NO MORE!" Metallia's voice echoed. "WATCH
AND YOU SHALL SOON WITNESS THE INCREDIBLE POWER WHICH I SHALL GIVE YOU!!!!

     Duke Kinches within his mind struggled to reach out.
*Endymion...Endymion...listen to me! I hope you can understand. Queen Beryl has
had Vindalla unleash an evil called Metallia. I cannot stop her. You must reach
the Imperium...please...Endymion...*
     Kinches felt no response and his heart sank. They were doomed. Unless
Endymion heard him...they would all soon perish.
     
     Lt. Ember cried out as dark energy ripped through her soul. She felt her
life essence being altered and an evil she could have never comprehended
replaced it. She opened her eyes and looked up into the faces of Queen Beryl
and Vindalla.
     "I am prepared." she said. "I shall serve the Dark Kingdom."
     Beryl grinned. "You were studying the ways of "shape changing" Ember. I
shall make use of your special talents. You shall join Vindalla as Fedkel Umi
and I will use you when I am ready.."
     Ember turned and looked at Vindalla. "I shall do whatever you ask."

     Duke Kinches screamed in agony as he fought the evil with every bit of his
soul. Eventually, the darkness tore through his barriers in his subconscious
and he found his essence being reformed. His thoughts of terror faded to those
of conquest. He rose and stared at Queen Beryl.
     "The Dark Kingdom shall rule all!" he declared. He turned to the dark
form of Metallia that hung like a plague over everything. "I will die for it if
asked."

     The darkness of Metallia laughed and, her evil laughter echoed through the
entire continent that was once known as Lumeria.

     "OUR FORCES ARE COMPLETE! SOON....WE SHALL CONQUER...THE UNIVERSE!!!!!
     
    


                   Chapter Fifteen: Chronos Destruction!

     
     "Wake up." Keln shook his partner at the console.
     Pirn sighed. "Sorry...I must have dozed off. I can't help thinking how
much fun everyone is going to have at that party tonight. Queen Serenity sure
took a chance, didn't she?"
     Keln laughed. "She's the Queen, who's going to go against her? Even if our
ruler King Colma decided to, he would be alone. I don't even think Mara would
back him on this one. Princess Serenity deserves to be happy."
     "Still..wish I was at that party." Pirn reached over and picked up his
cup. Drinking deeply, he looked up at the holo-scanner which showed a three
dimensional image of the Imperium. "You need to adjust these scanners again
Keln, they're getting false images."
     "What are you talking about?" Keln moved closer and stared at something
that seemed to suddenly appear. "What...is that?"
     Pirn shrugged. "A dirty sensor. I told you we need to get out there and do
maintenance this month. We can't rely totally on Queen Serenity's magic to do
all the work. That's why we have this defense network." Pirn noticed Keln was
continuing to watch the image. "Hey! Did you hear a word I said?"
     Keln's face was intense. He adjusted a dial on the console and, the image
zoomed in on something. "What is going on here?"
     Pirn looked closer now. "It...it looks like a cloud. But...I've never seen
anything like that. Not even from the gaseous traces given off by..."
     "Lock in on it!" Keln ordered.
     Pirn waved his hand over a scanner and, the screen turned dark red with a
circle surrounding the image. "Locked."
     "Adjust defense network to maximum density. I want to see if this thing
bounces off."
     "Adjusted." Pirn bit his lip as he watched the cloud move closer. "I..this
is too weird."
     "What?" Keln looked at him.
     Pirn swore. "I...I'm not getting a reading on the cloud at all! It looks
like it's not even there!"
     "That's impossible!" Keln began to feel a fear. "How soon till contact?"
     "Two minutes."
     "Why didn't our outer sensors pick it up? Did it come from the sun?"
     Keln's voice sounded nervous now.
     "I don't know where it came from! The thing was just there! That's why I
thought it was nothing to worry about."
     Keln continued to watch. "Notify planet Mara to increase density on their
side of the network. I don't want to alarm them but, we need to see what this
is. Scanners aren't showing us anything."
     "Understood." Pirn quickly relayed the message. "Should I inform His
Majesty of this?"
     Keln sighed. "No..but..notify Sailor Chronos. Maybe she has an idea what
this is. Sometimes those Senshi can detect things our instruments can't..."

     Sailor Chronos smiled as she looked in the mirror. It would feel good
to see her friends again. In just a few weeks, she would be returning to
help train the new inner Senshi. 
     A beep sounded and, she noticed her holo-monitor was blinking. She
turned it on. "Yes?"
     "Sailor Chronos..this is Pirn of Defense Central Network. Can you
come here please? We have a target approaching the network."
     "A target?" Chronos smile faded. "How big?"
     "It's a cloud..or rather, it looks like one. It doesn't show on the
monitors. It's like it isn't there."
     Sailor Chronos nodded. "I'll be right there. Please assemble all data
you can on it. Also...notify Defense Minister Devol."
     "Should we worry him this soon?" Pirn asked. "We haven't even
informed King Colma yet."
     "Please do so." Chronos didn't know why but, she felt an uneasiness.
"I'll see you in a few minutes." She turned off the monitor and headed
quickly for the Defense Network building.... 

     "What is that thing?" Pirn repeated.
     Keln stared intensely at the image. "Contact in ten seconds." His eyes
flicked quickly to the chronometer. "five seconds...four...three...two.."
     "It..it's not stopping!" Pirn's voice shook with fear.
     "Contact." Keln watched the monitor. The cloud stopped for a moment at the
defense barrier which encompassed the Imperium. It was run mainly by the
planets Chronos and Mara and augmented by the outer planets. Then, his eyes
grew wide as, the cloud changed shape. It's color and density altered and, it
moved through the barrier as if it didn't exist. "Dear...god." Keln whispered
terrified.
     "It's...it's through the barrier! Pirn stared at Keln. "HOW THE..."
     "NOTIFY THE MILITARY!" Keln shouted. "That thing is coming right at us!!
We need to organize an evacuation!"
     "EVACUATION?? Pirn swore. "THERE'S NO TIME!!!"
     "TRY, DAMN IT!!!" Keln looked up as Sailor Chronos entered the room.
     Chronos saw their faces and quickly glanced at the monitors. "It's through
the network?"
     "Yes." Keln looked sick.
     "I'll try to stall it." Chronos face was grim. "Notify King Colma and
Queen Serenity. Please mobilize the Sailor Senshi." Chronos turned and moved
quickly out the door. She looked up at the darkening sky knowing that the
energy cloud whatever it was...would soon be there...



     "Sailor Mars...may I have this dance?"
     Sailor Mars looked up and saw Merlyn smiling at her. She looked around to
make sure he hadn't been speaking to someone else. "Uhmm...I guess so." Mars
smiled. "I'd love to."
     "I've been wanting to meet you." Merlyn grinned. "I have to say, you're very
beautiful. I was attracted to you when I first saw you."
     "Really?" Mars smiled. "That's sweet of you. I think you're very nice too.
But, I'm a Sailor Senshi so, I don't get a lot of time to have fun."
     "You won't always be a Senshi." Merlyn winked at her as they danced.
"Someday, you'll pass that duty on to someone else. Or, does it work that way
here?"
     "Yes, that's usually what happens." Sailor Mars smiled as she passed under
his arm. "So, what is it like with your people?"
     "We are an ancient race...let me tell you about us..."
     As Merlyn began to relate his people's history to Mars, Queen Serenity
looked up as Artemis approached.
     "Artemis? What is it?"
     Artemis voice trembled. "Queen Serenity. We...have a problem. Some sort of
energy cloud has passed through our defensive network..and it's approaching
Chronos."
     "Chronos?" Serenity looked quickly at her daughter and Prince Endymion as
they danced. "Come with me." She stood up and led Artemis to a small adjoining
room. "Has Chronos taken defensive measures?"
     "They've begun evacuation procedures. Sailor Chronos is preparing to
evaluate whatever it is. She asks that you mobilize the Sailor Senshi. But,
they're spread out all over right now."
     Queen Serenity nodded. "I'll let them know. Please keep this quiet until
we know more. I don't want to panic anyone. Has Mara responded?"
     "Not as yet." Artemis sighed. "But you can bet they will soon."
     Queen Serenity opened her mind. *Sailor Senshi...I need you now. Something
is approaching planet Chronos. It appears to be a cloud. Sailor Chronos is
evaluating the situation. Stand ready*

     Sailor Uranus glanced up and stared at Neptune. "A cloud?"
     "Let's get everyone together!" Neptune stood up. The two ran quickly
toward the main castle...

     Sailor Mara ran toward the castle and saw Uranus and Neptune ahead of
her. As she came alongside, she looked at Uranus. "A cloud is approaching
Chronos?"
     "You heard what I did." Uranus responded. "But, a cloud would have been
stopped by the defense network. Not even a particle can get through if they
intensify the field!"
     Mara felt a lump in her throat. Something was terribly wrong!

     Queen Serenity stared at the image of Sailor Pluto. "Can you give me an
idea what you just experienced?"
     Pluto's eyes held fear. "Something attempted to come through the time
corridor. I was able to block it but, it seemed to circumvent my efforts. It
created a gateway of it's own."
     "Do you know where it originated from?" Serenity fought back her fear. "It
wasn't picked up by any scanners!"
     "It came from outside time, I think." Pluto shook her head. "I've never
seen anything like it. I will maintain my post."
     "Pluto.."Queen Serenity hesitated. "Don't let anything come through the
corridor. Even if you must seal yourself in. I can't emphasize that enough!"
     "I understand." Pluto bowed her head. "I will maintain my post...forever
if necessary." Her image faded out.
     "Queen Serenity!" Luna came running. "The cloud is seconds away from
Chronos. The Sailor Senshi are ready!"
     Queen Serenity nodded. "Tell them to wait for now. This..this is
uncertain."
     "Uncertain?" Luna stared at her.
     "Luna..whatever it is...created it's own gateway. Sailor Pluto confirmed,
it tried to come through the time corridor. That would mean, it has the ability
to phase through time itself!"
    "But..but we can't stand by and do nothing!" Luna was shaking with
fear.
     "If I send in the Sailor Senshi, they may all die! We need to know
more about this." Queen Serenity opened her mind. *Sailor Chronos...can you
hear me?*

     Sailor Chronos stood outside watching for the cloud to appear. Her mind
opened. *Yes...I hear you Queen Serenity. Are you sending the others?*
     *Chronos..I need to know more about what this is. Can I depend on you and
Chronos military to defend your world until I do know?*
     Sailor Chronos hesitated. *I understand. I know why you're doing this and,
I agree. I'll find out all I can...and stop this thing*
     *Let me know all you can. I will send the others as soon as possible.*
Queen Serenity's thoughts were full of agony.
     *Protect the Silver Imperium.* Chronos answered. She closed her mind and
looked upward. A  large black cloud suddenly appeared and slowly began
descending......

     "Sailor Chronos?"
     Chronos looked quickly to her right where a holo-ball had appeared. The
face of Pirn looked back at her. "Did you get anymore data on what you think
this is?"
     Pirn shook his head. "We fine tuned the scanners and, we are picking up
something now. It seems to be in a state of temporal flux."
     "What?" Chronos stared at him. "But that means it has something to do with
time!"
     "We received a report from Defense Minister Devol. Something tried to come
through the time corridor but, Sailor Pluto sealed it. But, it managed to
create it's own path."
     Sailor Chronos watched the black cloud continue it's descent. "Have you
tried to communicate with it?"
     "Yes but, no response. But there is someone here who might have more info
for you." Pirn's face moved away to be replaced by an older female.
     Sailor Chronos smiled. "Mirai. I was hoping I would see you again but not
in this manner."
     "If the former Sailor Chronos can't help her successor, what good is she?"
Mirai's face flickered slightly. "I'm not sure what you're dealing with but, I
fear it's something that is out of legend. I have only heard of it once before
and, I hope I'm wrong. But, telepathic contact shows...insatiable hunger."
     "Hunger?" Sailor Chronos felt fear. The cloud was almost to the ground.
"What is it?"
     "A Chronovore. An entity that exists outside of time itself. They feed on
life energy."
     The cloud reached the ground. Sailor Chronos watched along with several
hundred people in the area as it coalesced into the humanoid form of a young
woman in a red dress. Chronos nodded. "Well, it better be willing to talk or,
I'll blast it back to wherever it came from!"
     "Alyssa wait..."
     Sailor Chronos advanced forward. Her eyes quickly surveyed the entity. It
looked around and smiled at all the people. "Hello everyone....time to feed."
     Chronos watched in horror as the Chronovore's eyes glowed and everyone
around it screamed as their life energy was drained!
     "HEY YOU!!!! she shouted.
     The Chronovore turned and smiled at her. "Someone brave enough to address
me? How interesting."
     "I don't know what you want here but, if you keep attacking, I'll be
forced to destroy you!"
     The Chronovore laughed. "If you think you can...please try. I would talk
with you longer but, I'm very hungry. Please excuse me." The entity turned and
thousands of people began dying as their energy was drained.
     "I WON'T PERMIT IT!!!" Sailor Chronos raised her hands over her head and a
ball of silver energy appeared.."STASIS...." she shouted. She took the disk and
threw it toward the Chronovore..."DISK!!!!!!"
     The entity turned and watched as the disk came toward it. It hit and for a
moment glowed then, the Chronovore grinned. "Is that all there is to it? I was
hoping for something a little more interesting."
     Chronos gasped. "You...."
     "Yes?" The woman laughed. "You're very interesting. I'm still hungry
though." She moved on as people screamed in terror and began to fall dying. She
licked her fingers. "You're people have a most unique taste. I like them."
     "DAMN YOU!!!!" Sailor Chronos put her hands in prayer. Energy waves began
to form around her..."TEMPORAL...." 
     The Chronovore turned and looked back at her.
     The waves of energy were now surrounded by tiny hour glasses as Chronos
put her full power into the attack..."FORCE......"
     "This should be entertaining." The Chronovore waited.
     "DISSSSSOOLUUUUUUTTTIOOOOONNNNN!!!!!" Chronos shouted as the energy ball
erupted from her and slammed with all it's force into it's target. 
     For a moment, Sailor Chronos thought she had won. The energy completely
surrounded the Chronovore. Then, as it faded, her eyes widened in terror as it
blinked and smiled at her. "I like you." it said. "I'll do you the favor of
being the last one killed as I feed off the rest of your planet. But, I've been
told there's far more than this one. The next one should be even more rich so,
I'll devour this one quickly so I can move on."
     "NOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!" Sailor Chronos drew her sword and ran toward the
Chronovore, her anger taking over.
     The Chronovore watched as she raised her sword and it came down to kill
the entity. The sword struck and, it flew backward making Chronos cry out. It
spun out of her hands and hit the ground.
     Sailor Chronos gasped as she fell on her side feeling pain. As she did so,
she heard a laugh. "Sorry...now, if you'll excuse me...I'm very hungry..
     In terror she watched as the Chronovore continued onward killing as it
went...


     "Is your military moving to defend now?" Queen Serenity asked. Her voice
was trembling. This night was to of been one of happiness...not horrifying
terror.
     Mirai's face showed her fear. "They are but, Sailor Chronos has failed.
She launched her most powerful attack and it did nothing."
     "NOTHING?" Luna gasped.
     Artemis swore. "We..we have to do something!"
     Queen Serenity looked at Defense Minister Devol. "We need to
mobilize...fast."
     "NO!" Mirai shouted.
     Her shout stunned everyone. Devol shook his head. "What do you.."
     "DO NOT send the Sailor Senshi!" Mirai's voice shook and her eyes
betrayed her terror. "The Chronovore is still feeding. Your best bet would be
to try to enclose it in energy it cannot escape from. If you send the Senshi,
they will all die!"
     "But Chronos will be destroyed if we don't!" Luna cried.
     "The only way to save yourselves..is to trap it. Don't worry about
us...we'll do what we can." Mirai bowed her head.
     Queen Serenity felt the tears fall from her eyes. "I..I'll trust your
wisdom, Mirai. Please do what you can. I'll gather my power to trap this
thing.."


     "FIRE!!!!!!"
     The Chronovore turned and looked amused as thousands of laser strikes
slammed into it. The ground around it erupted into tiny explosions as missed
shots struck.
     The men continued firing even as it moved through the city killing
everything in it's path. It played no favorites killing women, children, and
soldiers that tried to impede it.
     Sailor Chronos followed it looking for a way to overcome the evil. She
put her hands upward. "STASIS........DISK!!!!!"
     The disk flew and struck the woman. She turned and brushed her red hair
aside. "Don't you think that this is getting tiresome? It didn't work before,
what makes you think it will now? Relax...your time will soon come."
     Sailor Chronos screamed and dove past the laser blasts slamming into the
Chronovore. For a moment, the two's eyes met. The Chronovore grinned. "I should
eat you now...but I'm going to save you for last. Your soul has such spirit."
She threw Chronos aside and into a building. Sailor Chronos cried out as she
struck. 
     The military began to throw everything it had! Explosions blew buildings
apart and ripped deep holes in the ground as the intended target merely laughed
at it all as if it was a game. As this continued, anyone with access to a
communication device began to send cries of desperation out into the cosmos....
     
     Sailor Mara watched in horror as the signals came in. The Sailor Senshi
around her looked at each other. "What's going on?" Sailor Venus asked.
     The dance now terrifyingly ended faded into unimportance as word of
Chronos situation began to spread throughout the Imperium. Mara moved past
everyone and ran with a purpose toward Queen Serenity's conference room...
     "MARA!" Uranus shouted.
     Sailor Mara slammed through the doors suprising everyone. She looked hard
at Queen Serenity. "WHY HAVEN'T WE HELPED??" she shouted.
     Defense Minister Devol moved forward. "Sailor Mara, this is highly
irregular..."
     She slammed Devol to the floor. "QUEEN SERENITY!!! MOBILIZE US..NOW!!!!"
     Queen Serenity looked down as Luna and Artemis stared at Mara. "I...I
cannot. It's too dangerous. But...I need all your help...I need to pull all our
power together."
     "What..what is going on?" Mara asked. "Where's Sailor Chronos? Is she in
the middle of that?"
     "Sailor Chronos is trying to prevent a natural disaster that is destroying
her planet...and I need all of you to merge with me and help contain it..if we
can."
     Sailor Mara swore and looked at the holo-monitor. "It...it looks like the
planet is coming apart!"
     "It is." Queen Serenity fought the tears that blinded her eyes. "Get
everyone in here now. There's no time to lose."
     As the other Senshi quickly responded, Sailor Mara felt hot tears burn her
cheeks. A natural disaster? But...how...?

     Thousands continued dying as the Chronovore maintained it's terrifying rampage.
It stood in the center of the city then rose in the air. It's form began to
glow filling with dark energy..becoming more powerful as it fed!
     Sailor Chronos struggled to her feet and  looked up at it. She closed her
eyes.
     *Queen Serenity! Queen Serenity, help us!!! I can't stop it!!!*
     She waited for an answer but none came. Frustrated, she watched as
explosions blew off in the sky surrounding the Chronovore. The sky darkened as
every person in sight fell and died. Chronos felt her tears stinging as she ran
underneath it. "WHY???" she shouted. "TAKE ME TOO!!!!!!"
     The Chronovore looked down at her still absorbing energy. "I told
you...you're my last meal on this planet. You have done all you can. Accept
your death and be content."
     "DAMN YOU!!!!!" Chronos flung her hands together and closed her eyes. The
globe of light appeared and the tiny hourglasses began to form.
     "Please....not again." The Chronovore laughed.
     "TEMPORAL......FORCE......DISSSSSSOOLUUTIOOON!!!!!"
     The ball of power slammed into the Chronovore. Sailor Chronos covered in
dirt and soot from the explosions watched as her most powerful attack turned
into nothing..
     "Now will you let me feed in peace?" The Chronovore winked at her.
     "NOOOO! NOOOO! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!" Chronos screamed. Her cries of
agony ripped through city....

     Sailor Mara jerked. She stared at the holo-ball. "Alyssa.." she whispered.
"NO!! Alyssa!!!!"
     Sailor Uranus grabbed Mara's hand. "Mara! We need to concentrate! We have
to help Queen Serenity contain that thing! What the hell is it?"
     Queen Serenity terrified of letting them know the truth turned away. "I do
not know..but we must unite to fight it!"
     "Then let's do it!" Sailor Jupiter grit her teeth! "The planet is coming
apart!!!!"
     Sailor Mara screamed as she saw the atmosphere began to fade from
Chronos..
     "NO!!!!! ALYYSAAAAAA!!!" she shouted.....

     Sailor Chronos gasped in pain as the realized with a horrifying finality
everyone else was gone. Thousands of bodies littered the streets and yet, the
terrifying destruction continued. The Chronovore sighed. "That was a good
appetizer. Now....I will take the rest of this world and move on...."

     "TAKE THE REST???" Chronos shouted. Her eyes were streaming tears as she
saw trees begin to fall and age in seconds! A wind whipped through the air and,
the darkness thickened. "NO!!! You've already killed everyone!!!"
     The entity laughed. "No...I'm just getting started. You were fun for
awhile but now, you're beginning to annoy me. I'll save you till after I eat the
planet itself."
     Sailor Chronos soul cried out in agony along with her voice. It was over
and she knew she had failed! "QUEEN SERENITY!!!!!!" she shouted. "HELP ME!!!"
     Underneath her feet, she felt the ground tremble as a great earthquake
began! Explosions sounded and huge stalagmites ripped loose from the earth
sticking upward like great teeth.....


     Sailor Mara grit her teeth as Sailor Mars gripped her right hand and
Sailor Mercury squeezed her left. She cried out as she witnessed the planet
beginning to fade. "NO!!!! ALYSSA!!!!!"
     "MARA!!!! CONCENTRATE!!!!" Uranus shouted.
     Sailor Mara stared at Queen Serenity who now stood with Princess Serenity.
The Princess still in shock from what has supposed to be a day for her and
Prince Endymion held her mother's hand as the Queen concentrated. The Silver
Crystal began to glow filling the room with light!!!
     Prince Endymion and Merlyn looked quickly at each other as they witnessed
this incredible scene. Endymion swallowed as he saw his future bride's hair fly
in a wind that was created through the powerful mindlink!!!

     Queen Serenity concentrated....she opened her mind and saw Sailor Chronos
screaming for help. The planet was breaking apart beneath her. She closed off
part of her mind so Sailor Mara wouldn't see her friend's plight. *Sailor
Chronos...can you hear me?* she whispered....

     Sailor Chronos cried in terror as the planet began to collapse. The
Chronovore hung in the air high above her now. It was sucking in the planet's
energy and, the atmosphere was fading with it. The blue sky had disappeared to be
replaced by black space as more and more was absorbed by the terrifying entity!
Chronos mind opened as she heard the Queen. *YES!!!! I'm doomed! Stop this
thing! SAVE THE IMPERIUM!!!!*
     *I can also save you* the thoughts of Serenity came. *But, you will be
alone. If Sailor Mara and the others think your alive...they will come and die
with you*
     Sailor Chronos nodded. *Do what you have to do. Everyone else is gone.
Tell Mara....I'll miss her*

     Queen Serenity concentrated and, the crystal glowed brighter! Then, a
bright glow encompassed Sailor Chronos. She found herself in a chamber. As it
enclosed her, she felt unconsciousness coming on.
     *You'll remain safe here...alone and unharmed...until we can...return for
you.* Queen Serenity's voice comforted her. *It's all I can do at this time.
The Chronovore will think your dead...and move on*
     *Save everyone else...* Sailor Chronos felt the darkness take her...and
her consciousness was gone.....
     The planet Chronos exploded in a blaze of light then, the explosion
imploded inward as the Chronovore sucked all the energy into itself.
     Queen Serenity concentrated on the Silver Crystal..."NOW SAILOR
SENSHI...GIVE ME YOUR POWER!!!!!"
     All of the Senshi shouted as one and the crystal blazed brighter! Then,
out in space a huge ball of light appeared and flew straight toward the
Chronovore as it turned away from the destroyed asteriod field that was once
Chronos. The Chronovore looked up as the ball flew toward it at incredible
speed! "WHAT?????"
     The ball slammed into the Chronovore enclosing it! Then, with blinding
speed the bright energy prison was sent at light speed into the depths of deep
space........

     As it faded from sight, the Sailor Senshi collapsed as one. Queen
Serenity steadied herself against a wall with Luna supporting her. 
     Sailor Mara raised her head from the floor where she had collapsed
and stared at the empty area of space where now only an asteroid field
existed. "No..." she whispered..."Oh god no! ALYSSA!!!!!!!!" Her shouts of
anguish could be heard throughout the palace......


                     Chapter Sixteen: Aftermath!

     Felv watched as the wind began picking up outside. He looked upward and
saw a darkness descending. "What in god's name?" he whispered.
     King Edicor stepped onto the balcony. "Is it my imagination or is this
storm more then we thought?"
     Suddenly, a huge energy bolt slammed into the central courtyard burning a
deep hole into the ground! Queen Karlel screamed and several people below ran
to escape. The hole expanded and fire began to burst from it.
     Felv looked up. Two objects were in the air and approaching fast! He
pushed King Edicor behind him. "Your Majesty...seek shelter now!"
     The King watched as two men appeared. They hung in the air a moment as a
dark glow surrounded their bodies. Then, as one, they began firing blasts of
energy from their hands destroying buildings below!
     "NOOOOO!" King Edicor shoved his way past Felv. "WHO ARE YOU????"
     The two men turned and one of them flew downward. "You must be the King.
How nice to meet you. I am Sorcerror Kandow."
     Queen Karlel backed up seeing the other man fly downward. He laughed. "And
she must be the Queen. Now, all we need is the Prince. Where is he?"
     "WHO ARE YOU??" King Edicor drew his sword. "If your an enemy, I will
fight you!"
     The two men looked at each other. Kandow smirked. "Jikell...he wants to do
battle. Shall I give him that privilege?"
     "Before he dies? Certainly." Jikell laughed.
     Queen Karlel cried as her husband moved closer. "COME ON THEN!!!" he
shouted.
     Felv swore. "YOUR MAJESTY!! NOOOOO!!!!"
     Several guards suddenly came running and Felv watched as the military
began to pour into the damaged courtyard. He felt more hopeful now as they
raised their weapons...
     Kandow looked at the hundreds of men below. He nodded to Jikell. "Deal
with those fools." He turned back to the King. "I will....teach this one he
can't defeat...gods."
     "GODS?" Felv drew his own sword. "LET'S SEE HOW GODLIKE YOU ARE!!!!"
     He charged Kandow who hung over the balcony in the air. Before he could
reach him, Kandow waved his hand and, Felv found himself flying backward into a
wall. He gasped as he hit hard and the wind was knocked out of him. Then, he
found an invisible force crushing him to the ground. He cried in agony and
passed into death....
     "Now for you, Your Majesty." Kandow grinned.
     "EDICOR...NOOOOOO!!!"
     Edicor looked at his Queen. "I must defend us! I will not cower like a
mouse in a hole!"
     Kandow nodded and moved to advance...

     Sorcerror Jikell flew over the Atlantean military as they fired at him.
The arrows and projectiles bounced off making him laugh. "Fools! You think your
strong? We'll teach you what true strength is. And you will know your
masters!!" He waved his hand and, the earth trembled. The men below fell and
some ran screaming. Jikell laughed. "FLY fools...FLY!!!!!"
     The men that stood fired again. Jikell grinned. "Now....die!!!!!"
     His hands launched a huge fireball! Men screamed and tried to get clear.
The fireball hit enclosing the coutyard in a tomb of fire! Men's voices
screamed in agony as they died...

     Kandow nodded. "King Edicor...you might wish to know why we are doing
this..before you die." He grinned. "The continent of Lumeria as you once knew
it has become a new power. The Dark Kingdom. And, we shall rule all!!!"
     Edicor swallowed. "Come on then! I'll show Beryl I can't be pushed around
so easily!"
     "Beryl?" Kandow laughed. "Queen Beryl is not our master now. Metallia is!
And Metallia has ordered the death of Atlantis!!!!" Kandow laughed and launched
an explosion from his hands. King Edicor screamed as he fell back and hit the
floor. Kandow moving quickly landed and grabbed him by the throat. He held up
the King and smiled. "Your Majesty...what a joke you are. Your foolish country
would have perished in time. It is best that we destroy it in this manner...so
that you know you fell against a superior enemy!!!"
     Edicor gasped for air.."The..the Silver Imperium...will destroy you.." His
eyes fought to see from the blackness as it took him.
     Kandow tightened his grip and Queen Karlel screamed in terror as Edicor
slumped dead. Kandow threw his body across the floor.
     "I shall let you live....so you may die with your people!" Kandow nodded
to her..."Farewell...Queen of a dying nation."

     Jikell flew over. "It is done. We need only destroy the rest. There are
none to oppose us."
     Kandow nodded looking at the Queen below as she cried over her husband's
dead body. "The Prince is not here...he is no doubt with his love, Princess
Serenity. But...no matter. Empress Metallia is dealing with them. Time to sink
this continent into history!"
     The two flew high into the sky until the continent of Atlantis was nothing
more then a tiny island below. "Such power!" Jikell laughed. "Nothing can stop
us!!"
     Kandow nodded. "Now....destroy it!!!!"

     The two linked minds and aimed their hands at the continent below. An
explosion ripped forth and spread outward to encompass the area around it.
Then, huge waves the size of mountains rose up on all sides and with a
terrifying finality crashed inward!!! The two warriors laughed revelling in
their power as little by little the continent sunk down and finally was no
more.......
     

     "How is she?" Uranus asked.
     Neptune sighed. "She hasn't stopped crying. She secluded herself in a room
and won't come out."
     Uranus nodded. "I don't blame her. She and Chronos were awful close."
     "Like us?" Neptune winked at her.
     "No...just very good friends." Uranus squeezed Neptune's hand. "Sailor Mara
helped train Chronos. When Chronos died..I think she lost a part of herself."
     "Maybe." Neptune got up. "So what are they doing?"
     "Queen Serenity called an emergency meeting. But...I don't know what good
it will do." Uranus stood up. "Whatever that was...appeared suddenly. Like
magic."
     "Things are...uncertain." Neptune stared at the sky.
     "Yes...very..."

     Prince Endymion hugged Princess Serenity close comforting her. Merlyn and
Arianrod had both fallen into silence. Since Chronos destruction the mood in
the Imperium had fallen into great fear. A fear that...they were more
vulnerable then they thought.
     "Are you going to return to your people soon?" Serenity looked up at
Endymion.
     "No..if it's okay..I want to stay with you for now." He hugged her closer.
     Merlyn smiled. "I'm glad in the middle of this disaster you two still have
each other. What will your people do now?"
     Princess Serenity looked up. "I..I don't know. Mother I'm sure will deal
with the situation as she sees fit. I do know that a new inner defense planet
will have to be established to repair the network..Mars probably."
     Merlyn nodded. "We have defenses of our own. Perhaps when things become
more stable again...I can discuss some of that with your mother."
     "Maybe." Serenity hugged Endymion. "I'm terrified. I don't know what's
happening. What was that thing?"
     "It was...a natural disaster." Endymion wiped a tear from his eye. "Your
mother has told everyone that."

     "But what natural disaster would cause that?" a voice said.
     They looked up and saw Science Minister Alcon. Princess Serenity moved
over and hugged him. "Alcon..what do you think?"
     Alcon's face was grim. "I don't know what to believe. But, that cloud
stopped at the defense grid before it changed and then moved on to destroy
Chronos. A cloud would not do that. An entity that was intelligent would."
     "So..so your saying this was some sort of...attack? Not a natural
disaster?" Merlyn blinked.
     "Yes...that's what I'm saying. And, it's going to cause a lot of people to
think about some things. Until we contacted Earth, the Imperium never had any
major problems with the exception of an evil comet that tried to freeze the
Earth centuries ago. Your mother took care of it, Princess. But this..." he
grit his teeth. "This smacks of the same thing. Don't tell anyone my
feelings..I don't want to start a panic."

     "That may already be too late."
     Alcon turned and saw Defense Minister Devol. "Devol..what do you mean?"
     "The Kings of the respective Imperium planets have been devastated by this
whole thing. They are rethinking our new policy of involving ourselves with
Earth."
     "There's no proof anything from Earth did this." Merlyn answered. "Have we
heard from the Lumerians since before this happened?"
"The communication network as you know was not yet established. A responsibility
    you failed in...Alcon." 
     Alcon glared at the Defense Minister. "You dare to blame me for..."
     "PLEASE!!" Princess Serenity stepped between them. Her eyes were filled
with tears. "Please don't fight. We can't afford to...not now. Not when we all
need each other the most."
     Devol looked away. "Sorry, Alcon. I'll...see you later." He walked off with
his head bowed.
     Prince Endymion moved to Serenity and hugged her. "I...I'll be here for
you Serenity. I won't ever leave."
     "Endymion." She fell into his embrace and closed her eyes.
     Merlyn glanced down at Arianrod. "Let's do some investigating of our own
shall we?"
     "Let's." Arianrod agreed. The two bowed and teleported out.
     Alcon looked at where they had been. "And that's another thing..those two
and their people. We know very little about them. How do we know.."
     "ALCON!" Serenity shouted. She shook her head. "Why..why...you were never
like this before?"
     "I know.." Alcon swore. "But..losing a planet...makes one rethink their
perspective on things. Ask Sailor Mara if you don't believe me. She decked
Devol when she crashed into the room wanting to know why we hadn't helped."
     "I'm sure mother had her reasons why she held off so long." Serenity
wiped her eyes. "Has anyone tried to talk to Mara?"
     "She has lost her spirit." Alcon swore. "She just sits and
stares...and cry's. I think she wants to die herself....."

     "SAILOR URANUS!!!"
     Uranus looked up as she saw a man running toward her. "Yes?"
     "Sailor Uranus.." he panted out of breath. "We...we have a
problem! The rocks that remain of what was once Chronos are settling
into an orbit but...."
     "But what?" Uranus stared at him.
     "But some of them aren't! They're huge! They will surely impact
and cause major damage to anything they hit!"
     Uranus swore. "What worlds are affected?"
     The man pulled out a small computer and typed something in.
"Projected planets that will be damaged are Mars....Venus...and
Earth...and possibly the Moon!"
    Sailor Neptune's eyes grew in fear. "But..but the network is
down! Will defenses be enough to stop those asteroids?"
     "I..I don't think so." the man's voice quavered.
     Uranus thought quickly. She was the one responsible for
training the Sailor Senshi...she and Mara. And, Mara wasn't herself
right now. "Neptune....a Sailor Planetary with everyone might be
enough to stop them!"
     "But the inner Senshi are new, Uranus! Just learning to be
Senshi! They haven't even advanced to their potential yet!"
     "They're Senshi!" Uranus glared at her. "They know what's
expected of them. If we can't depend on them...more than Chronos
will suffer destruction! A Sailor Planetary attack is the only way to
save those worlds!" Uranus nodded. "Assemble the others, Neptune!
Sailor Pluto is guarding the gateway and can't help. It's up to us."
Uranus turned and ran..
     "Where are you going?" Neptune shouted.
     "To kick some sense into Sailor Mara! She's grieved for Chronos
too long...and we need her!!!" Uranus turned and ran hard toward
Mara's room....... 
           

     "Now concentrate Alyssa...see how the power feels as you begin to enhance
it through your very being..."
     Sailor Chronos nodded. "I got it..." The young girl closed her eyes. She
glanced quickly at her two trainers...the former Sailor Chronos, and her new
friend...Sailor Mara..."STASIS..." she held her hands up the way she'd been
taught feeling her power. The globe that formed made her gasp in surprise.
Then, she saw it flatten and held it in her hand. It was like living energy,...
     "DISK!!!!!" She threw it hard and it contacted the target.....

     "Alyssa." Sailor Mara raised her head. The sickness of reality had come.
She had cried herself to sleep...and been dreaming. But..it was only a dream.
And, Sailor Chronos...her best friend..was gone. "Alyssa." she whispered.
"Didn't we train you well enough? What did I do wrong..?"
     Mara burst into tears again and sunk into the chair.
     A knock sounded.
     Mara looked over..."Who is it?"
     "Sailor Uranus. We need to talk...and fast."
     "GO AWAY!" Mara shouted. "I don't want to see anyone right now!"
     Uranus kicked the door open shattering the lock. She walked over
purposefully and stared at Mara.
     "I'm not known for being subtle..but you already know that, Mara."
     "WHAT THE HELL DO YOU WANT?" Mara cried. "GET OUT!!"
     "I'd love to." Uranus hard stare met Mara's tear filled eyes, "I really
would. Unfortunately, I don't have that luxury to let you sit here and wallow
in self pity. Your a Senshi! Your one of the older Senshi! You have a
responsibility..."
     "SHUT UP!!!" Mara stood up and slapped Uranus hard. Uranus turned away
then looked at Mara again who was in shock.
     "As I said.." Uranus continued unfazed, "you have a duty. And, we have a
problem. You see Mara, unless you come with me now, Chronos won't be the only
world destroyed today."
     "WHAT?" Sailor Mara swallowed in fear. "What are you.."
     "There are chunks of what's left of Chronos heading for several of our
planets. I don't know how severe or how soon. But, we can't delay. The danger
is far from over. I need you to help me direct the others through a Sailor
Planetary attack. It's the only way to stop those asteroids."
     "A Sailor..." Mara gasped. She backed up. "Those girls? They're brand
new...untrained! They don't know how to do such an advanced..."
     "THEN WE BETTER TEACH THEM FAST!" Uranus shouted. "I can't do this alone!
Neptune can help but, even she is not as well prepared as you. You understand?
Our chance of success hinges on this! We have no more time for talk. If I lost
Neptune, I would be devastated just as you are now. But, I also would realize
the situation. Come with me now...and show these new inner Senshi that despite
losing Chronos, you're there for them!"
     Sailor Mara looked away. "I...I helped train Alyssa. And I..."
     "And you failed?" Uranus sighed. "What Chronos went up against none of us
could have beaten individually. I'm sure she did all she could. Now let's see
to it she didn't die in vain. Come with me Mara!" She held out her hand.
     Sailor Mara looked up then nodded. Taking Uranus hand, the two turned and
ran quickly toward the central court....


     Defense Minister Devol looked up as he saw the two Senshi arriving. "Good.
I was hoping you were alright, Mara.
     Mara's face was emotionless...blocking out her fear and grief. "I'm ready.
Sailor Senshi?"
     The four new girls looked nervous. Sailor Jupiter seemed eagar. Sailor
Venus was trying not to look scared.
     Mara looked inward. *Help me Alyssa* she whispered to herself.
"Okay...listen up!" she said. "We're going to do a Sailor Teleport then form
our bubble into a Sailor Planetary Attack. I know you've never done this so,
Uranus and I will direct it. It's a very powerful attack. Our shield we create
with our linked minds is the key. Understood?"
     Sailor Saturn stepped forward. "Is this what I did on a practice once with
you, Pluto and Uranus?"
     "That was a smaller version." Mara looked at everyone. "This is to save
our homes. Planets Mars, Venus, the Earth, and the Moon are affected. These
rocks are huge and moving fast so, we have very little time. We'll have to
split them at precise points at the correct trajectories so we send them
harmlessly to join the rest in orbit...and not into anything else. Everyone got
it?"
     The girls nodded. Sailor Uranus took Neptune's hand. "Let's do it then!"
     The Senshi all formed a circle. Devol nodded. "Good luck. The entire
defense network is down. Queen Serenity has gone into seclusion but, she is
watching from her room."
     Sailor Mara forced herself to smile at everyone.."Okay...SAILOR.....

     "TELEPORT!!!!!!" they all shouted!
     The eight Senshi vanished from sight. Devol sighed and looked at the castle
behind him. "Queen Serenity...please send them your blessings.."


     "The Chronovore failed..." Queen Beryl looked upward.
     "NO MATTER." Metallia's demonic form laughed. "CHRONOS IS DESTROYED AND
SOON SO WILL BE THE REST. THE ALLIANCE YOU FEARED NO LONGER EXISTS. WE WILL
WAIT A BIT AND THEN STRIKE WITH ALL OUR FORCES...."

     Vindalla looked up as Kandow and Jikell suddenly appeared. "Your report?"
     Kandow bowed. He nodded once to Nadi who stood nearby and continued.
"Atlantis has been destroyed. We used our new strength and sunk it into the
ocean. As for Prince Endymion...he is currently with Princess Serenity. But, we
shall soon handle that.." he grinned wickedly.
     "ATTACK WHEN I SAY...NOT UNTIL.." Metallia instructed. "ALREADY DISSENSION
IS BUILDING IN THE IMPERIUM. THEY WILL BLAME EACH OTHER AND THE TUATHA...OR
PERHAPS US. BUT, BY THE TIME THEY REALIZE WHAT TO DO...IT WILL BE TOO LATE."

     Queen Beryl smiled. "And then the Dark Kingdom shall rule supreme!" She
laughed. "King Kunzite...King Jedite...King Zoacite...King Nephrite..."

     "YES QUEEN BERYL!!!" they shouted.
     "Prepare your forces...as soon as our glorious Metallia permits it...you
will strike with all you have! You will conquer and you will destroy
everything. Search for any secrets that may reveal how the Silver Millenium
has immortality."

     Duke Kinches stood nearby watching. His soul was filled with dark energy
and he awaited his assignment. Yet...deep inside..something he couldn't recall
was still there. It was a name...of someone..that had been dear to him. But.."
he winced as the dark energy seized hold. *NO* the voice said within him.
*Metallia's will is all! You will obey her!*....
     Through the darkness...his subconscious filtered out the
name...*Endymion...please...warn...them..*



                     Chapter Seventeen: Deflection!

     The cold blackness of space was suddenly lit as, the teleport bubble
containing the eight Senshi appeared.
     Uranus turned to Sailor Mercury. "Okay Mercury...use your visor the way
the former Sailor Mercury taught you."
     Mercury nodded nervously. "It's so dark out here. And, I keep feeling
like the bubble won't be enough to protect us."
    "Put your fear aside." Sailor Neptune smiled. "Which is the first target
we need to deflect?"
     Mercury activated her visor. The blue light lit up the inside of the
teleport bubble as she scanned. "It looks like the first chunk of rock is
going to threaten the Moon. Impact point might be the dark side...not sure.
The rest are moving slower."
    "Dark side or not, it would set off one hell of a quake." Uranus looked at
everyone. "Let's get it before it has a chance!"
     "Concentrate then." Sailor Mara fought back her own fear. "This is going
to feel insane to most of you but, it's the only way. We'll use the Sailor
Planetary to blast through the rocks."
     "YOU MEAN COLLIDE WITH THEM?" Sailor Mars shouted. "But...but if the
bubble collapses from the impact.."
     "It won't if we keep a strong mental link." Mara nodded. "So, don't lose
concentration. Let's go. Uranus...direct it."
     Sailor Uranus closed her eyes and, the teleport bubble flew with
incredible speed around the moon. In the distance, Sailor Mercury could see a
huge rock coming toward the moon. "There it is!" she cried. "It's huge! It's
about three miles wide!"
     "Find the weak point." Mara ordered.
     Mercury scanned the rock as the Senshi rapidly closed with it. "Weak point
appears to be fifteen degrees from the center of it. If we split that, the
rest should move into line with the asteroid field that is forming."
     "Okay then...ram it!" Uranus ordered.
     "RAM IT??" Sailor Venus gulped. "But.."
     "No time to hesitate." Sailor Mara turned serious. "Our homes are at
stake..yours and Mars especially. Let's blow this one apart and nail the
others."
     Uranus nodded. "Here we go...."SAILOR....."
     "PLANETARY..." the others shouted..."ATTAAAAACCCKKKKK!!!!!
     The teleport bubble increased speed and glowed as the Senshi combined
their power together. Aiming toward the point where Mercury had indicated,
they approached the rock at alarming speed!
     "OH MY GOD!!!!" Sailor Venus shouted as they slammed into it!!!!"
     The impact from their power tore into the rock and split it apart as they
passed through. Sailor Saturn looked nervous as huge rock passed close to her
head at an incredible rate with only the thin layer of the bubble to protect
her. Then, they were through the other side still increasing speed...
     "We...we did it!" Sailor Jupiter grinned happily.
     Mara nodded. "Mercury...projections?"
     Sailor Mercury scanned the rocks. "It's confirmed. They'll drift into the
new field being created. No further danger to the Moon now."
     "Let's head for the next one." Uranus ordered.
     The Senshi increased speed. Now nothing more then a blur to the human eye,
they flew outward....
     Sailor Mercury scanned again..."Next target...a larger one. It's
threatening Mars! Impact in...one hour if we don't split it."
     "Let's do it then!" Mars grit her teeth. Slight fear filled her.
     Sailor Neptune nodded. "We'll get it....everyone...let's crack it!"
     They increased speed now flying past large chunks of rock. Then, as they
passed by one and curved around the other side, they could see Mars before
them...and heading toward it...a huge asteroid.
     "That's...big!" Sailor Venus stammered.
     "Let's see how far we can split it." Mara looked at Mercury. "Where's the
weak spot?"
     "Weak point is twenty eight degrees from the center point. But, that
won't be enough. We'll have to split it twice."
     "Twice?" Jupiter blinked. "Is there time..?"
     "Concentrate..." Uranus focused on the huge asteriod as they
approached..."Everyone...NOW!!!"
     "SAILOR....PLANETARY....ATTAAACCKKKK!!!!"
     The Senshi slammed into the asteroid cracking it in half. As they streaked
through the other side, Sailor Uranus swung them around.."Okay...let's do it
again!!!"
     "Weak point ten degress from the center...on the right half. The other
will drift harmless." Mercury reported.
     "BLAST IT!!" Mars shouted.
     The bubble slammed into the rock shattering it into thousands of pieces.
Sailor Venus winced as one huge chunk bounced off her side only inches from
her face. "This is...dangerous." she swallowed.
     "No time to be afraid." Mara grit her teeth. "Next target, Mercury?"
     Mercury scanned. "Earth..looks like...the Pacific region...near the
farthest continent. If it strikes, it'll kill anything there and set off
another ice age."
     "Let's get there then!!" Uranus swung the bubble around. "We need more
speed! Everyone, concentrate!!"
     They closed their eyes and, felt their power increase. Mara felt thoughts
of Chronos creep in and quickly shut them out concentrating on the task at
hand. *Alyssa* she whispered in her mind, *I know you're here in spirit...*


     Queen Serenity turned to her daughter. "Serenity...I'm going away for a
little bit. And, you have Prince Endymion here with you. I...need to think on
some things. I'll be at the special place in the northern continent...on
Earth."
     Endymion nodded. "Special place?"   
     Queen Serenity smiled. "Someday, I may show you."

  Princess Serenity looked up. "Mother...is that wise? With the Kings in the
Imperium feeling the way they do...what's going to happen?"
     Queen Serenity smiled. "It's because of that and all this I need to get
away. I will be back in a few hours...maybe a day. You need to get used to
ruling in my stead. I think in a few days...we'll try that ball again."
     "WHAT?" Princess Serenity stared at her mother. Had she gone insane? "But
mother, Chronos is destroyed! Why have a ball after that?"
     "It's because of that we need to have a social function. We need to show
we will grieve for Chronos and remember it well. But..we must go on. And, I
cannot allow our alliances to fall apart because of suspicion and mistrust.
After I have had time to think...I will return. Till then, you are in charge
Serenity." She hugged her daughter close and faded out...
     Princess Serenity stared for a moment at the wall where her mother had
stood. Then, sighing, she looked out the window at Earth.."Endymion." she
whispered....
     Prince Endymion hugged her close. "I know..I'm with you, Serenity.."


     "Impact point will be eighteen degrees from the center!" Mercury announced
as they closed in fast. "It's huge! Twelve miles across!!!"
     "Damn...harder then we thought." Uranus looked at Neptune. "If we don't
do this right..."
     "Chunks of it will hit Earth anyway..." Neptune finished.
     "Then we need to do it right the first time!" Sailor Mara concentrated as
they approached. "Everyone..."NOW!!!"
     "SAIIIILOOORRR.....PLAAAAANEEETAAARYYY.....ATTAAAAACK!!!!!"
     The Senshi combined their power and slammed into the huge rock exploding
it into fragments. As they emerged on the other side, Sailor Mercury scanned.
     "It's no good! Two are heading into the atmosphere! If we don't stop them
then..."
     "Goodbye Earth." Jupiter grit her teeth. "We've got to nail them now!"
     "Two at once!" Uranus ordered. "Everyone ready?"
     "All set." Sailor Saturn grinned.
     "Let's do it!" Sailor Mars nodded.
     "We've still got the one threatening my planet to get rid of." Sailor
Venus looked determined. "I'll use all my power!"
     "NOW!!!" Uranus shouted.
     "SAAAAIIILOOOR...PLAAANEEETAARYY...ATTAAACK!!!!"
     Moving too fast to see, the Senshi spun the teleport bubble around and
lined up on the two asteroids that were beginning to heat up as they entered
the Earth's atmosphere. 
     "Going to get awful hot!" Sailor Neptune winced as they lined up on the
rocks. "Don't lose concentration whatever you do or we'll burn up!!"
     The teleport bubble began to feel rough as it bounced off the air from
the planet and, the outside of it turned red as it closed on the two meteors
that were heating up. The Senshi slammed into the first rock shattering it into
minute particles. Sailor Mars turned her head from the flash. "That was too close!"
     "One more." Uranus swore. "It's getting hot!!"
     Aiming on the next one, they angled down and slammed across the center
blowing the meteor to bits. Mara looked at Mercury. "Projections, Mercury?"
     "It's okay!" Mercury smiled. "The chunks will burn up and won't damage
anything. Earth is safe!"
     "Last one coming up.." Uranus steered the bubble out of the heat from the
buffeting air and into space. "I don't know how much longer we could have stood
that."
     Moving at blinding speed the Senshi turned and headed straight for Venus.
As they did so, Mercury scanned ahead. "Looks like...a smaller one this time.
We were lucky. Two miles wide...moving fast though!"
     "Let's destroy it and go home." Mara answered.
     The Senshi aimed for the last chunk of rock. Sailor Mercury nodded.
"Impact point ten degress from the center. It should split with little
difficulty."
     The teleport bubble closed in on the rock as it moved toward Venus.
     "Last time." Uranus nodded. "SAILOR..."
     "PLAAANEEETAAARY....ATAAAAAACK!!!!" the shouts echoed.
     The impact from the attack blew the rock apart into thousands of
fragments. Sailor Venus grinned. "WE DID IT!!"
     "Danger is eliminated." Sailor Mercury smiled. "All of the Imperium
planets threatened are now safe."
     "Do a long range projection." Mara ordered. "Just in case we need to go
after any others."
     Mercury scanned. "No...it looks safe. We did it." She giggled. "And I was
terrified the whole time."
     "But, you held your concentration." Uranus looked at all of them. "Your
all true Senshi...and you have lived up to that name and saved the Imperium.
Let's go back to the Moon."
     Uranus swung them around and the Senshi soared through space at a slower
pace...feeling they could relax now that the danger was past....

     Invisible, Lord Onyx smiled as he watched. He turned to Ember.
"Looks like they are more powerful then we thought."
     Ember smiled. "But, we have Metallia...and nothing can defeat her."
     Onyx turned away smiling. "Nothing? Well...time will tell about that.
Let's go..." He faded out.
     Ember hung in space a moment longer. Watching the Senshi disappear from
sight she considered what Onyx had said. Then, she faded into the blackness...


     Prince Endymion looked up as he heard the excited talk from the Sailor
Senshi as they returned from their mission. Princess Serenity glanced over.
She smiled at her friends. "I guess you saved us. Thank you, everyone."
     Sailor Uranus nodded then looked around. "Where is Queen Serenity?"
     Princess Serenity sighed. "She is taking some time away. With all that
has happened, she needed time to think."
     "Where is she?" Neptune asked.
     "She said something about going to a place to be alone. I think she went
to Earth to that place in the northern continent."
     Sailor Mara looked away. "I was hoping to talk to her. But...I guess later
  I will. I'm going home. When she returns, please call me."
     "You're leaving?" Sailor Jupiter looked sad. "We were hoping you would stay
and start our training in earnest soon."
     "I...I need time away." Mara turned and walked toward the door.
     Uranus followed her. She stepped in front and smiled. "Thanks. I know what
you did today was very hard on you. If it means anything..I'm going to miss
Chronos too. But, you musn't blame yourself. You didn't cause her death nor the
planet itself. I know she did all she could."
     Mara nodded and wiped a tear from her eye. "I'm okay, Uranus. I just need
to get away for a bit. Let the younger girls have some fun for awhile. When I
feel more up to it...I'll come back."
     Uranus nodded. "If we need you..I know you'll be here."
     "I'll be here." Mara smiled and walked out of the room.
     Princess Serenity watched her go. She glanced quickly at Prince Endymion
then turned to Sailor Neptune. "Uhmmm...mother left me in charge while she's
gone. I've never done it before."
     Neptune grinned. "Then we shall follow your orders, Your Highness. Do you
have any for us?"
     Serenity blushed. "Uhmm...not right now. I guess just...do whatever you
want to unless any trouble comes up."
     Sailor Neptune laughed and looked over at Uranus. "Thank you. Call us if
you need us." She went over and grabbed Uranus arm. "Come on, we're taking
some much needed time off." Uranus protested but, Neptune laughed and pulled
her out of the room...
     The inner Senshi and Sailor Saturn looked at Princess Serenity. Sailor
Mars put her hands on her hips. "What now, Your Highness?"
     "Uhmm...go have fun?" Serenity giggled. "I don't know..I guess I need more
practice at this."
     "Probably why Queen Serenity left." Sailor Mercury smiled. She pulled out
her computer. "But, perhaps what we should be doing is some investigative
work."
     "Huh?" Sailor Venus looked at her. "I thought we were going to have some
fun!"
     "Go ahead if you want." Mercury tapped on her computer. "I want to analyze
a piece of rock from Chronos. Maybe we can detect something that we wouldn't
otherwise see that might lead us to some interesting conclusions."
     Sailor Mars sighed. "Must it always be work with you? But..I guess you're
right. We could all form a teleport bubble and then go get a piece."
     "No..we won't need to do that." Sailor Mercury closed her computer. "Some
minute pieces probably fell on the dark side. I'll just go get one and scan it.
If a natural disaster destroyed the planet as Queen Serenity thinks, there
should be traces of volcanic or other such evidence within the soil."
     Sailor Jupiter nodded. "You're thinking that this isn't a natural disaster?
But...if it isn't, who would do it?"
     "We have several possibilities." Mercury grinned. "We will have to narrow
them down one at a time. We can start with finding that rock we need to analyze."
     Sailor Venus sighed. "Oh for...we're free to go have fun and, we're all
going to analyze some rock? I want to find a nice boyfriend!"
     "You're a Senshi, Venus." Jupiter reminded her.
     "Maybe so...but, I can have fun too, can't I?"
     "Not when duty comes first." Mars glared at her. "Now come on, let's get
this over with so we can go have fun later."
     The girls continued arguing as they left. Serenity watched them go and
moved closer to Endymion. "I guess you'll have to go home soon...won't you?"
     "Yes. But...I want to stay with you longer. All of this..has been very
unsettling."
     Serenity nodded and hugged him close. "I feel like...like something isn't
right. There's someone trying to put a wedge between us...destroy our
happiness. But...I won't let them!" She hugged him tighter.
     "I'll never give you up Serenity..never." He leaned down and kissed her..
     
     Merlyn glanced at Arianrod as the two watched the darkness before them.
     "What happened here?" Arianrod whispered.
     "This is negative energy." Merlyn's trained senses took it all in.
"Something has happened on Lumeria. We need to find out..come on."
     "What if they catch us?" Arianrod asked concerned.
     "Then, we'll simply port out..now come on!" Merlyn grabbed her under
his arm and flew closer to the dark land...
     In a short while, both of them stared at the devastation below. The
city was destroyed...and what life there was seemed to move slowly as if
in a trance. Everywhere was the negative feeling. Merlyn winced as it
increased. "That building. It's coming from there!"
     They moved carefully looking for any sign of trouble. "We've got to
warn the Imperium!" Arianrod's voice rose with alarm. "This is..."
     "Horrifying." Merlyn nodded. "Let's get out...fast!"
     As the two began to teleport, they suddenly screamed as a shield
appeared around them. Merlyn turned and saw two men approaching.
     "Fool." the first laughed. "Did you think you could approach us and
not be noticed? Now...you will soon join us. Allow me to introduce
myself..I am Kunzite...one of the new Four Kings of Earth."
     "Four Kings?" Merlyn snarled through his pain. "I'll show you what I
think of such an idiotic concept!!" He slammed his energy into the bubble
trying to force his way out. It bounced back making Arianrod scream...
     "You'll kill your friend." The other man grinned. "Better quit."
     "This is Zoacite..also a King." Kunzite laughed. "Now, we'll show you
true power...Tuatha. Your nation will soon be annexed as well. After we
destroy the Silver Imperium of course."
     "Wait!" a voice said.
     Kunzite turned and saw someone else flying toward them. Merlyn gasped
as he realized it was Lord Onyx. "What do you want here, Onyx?" Kunzite asked.
     Onyx smiled wickedly. "I want to watch these two die."
     "What has happened to you?" Arianrod stared at them. "Isn't Lumeria an
ally of the Silver Imperium? Why are you going to destroy it?"
     "This isn't Lumeria anymore, Ari." Merlyn swore in gaelic. He glared at
Onyx. "What did you do!"
     "I?" Onyx laughed. "I am merely a tool...as soon will you be. There is no
more Lumeria. It no longer exists. It died as it should have." He turned to
Kunzite. "With your permission, Lord Kings, I would like to handle these two
personally. I'm sure Queen Beryl would approve. I have something special in
mind."
     Kunzite looked at Zoacite who shrugged. "Let's let him deal with
them. I know he has a wicked mind."
     Kunzite smiled. "I'll leave them to you then, Onyx. Give us a full
report later."
     "I shall." Onyx bowed and turned to the two captives. "First...feel
pain!!!"
     Merlyn gasped and swore as pain ripped through his body. Arianrod
screamed and thrashed about close to losing consciousness. The two Kings
laughed and faded out....
     Onyx nodded. "Good. The fools are gone." He turned to his captives.
"You're not the challenge I'd hoped you'd be. It will be quite enjoyable making
your people suffer before we enslave them."
     "Like hell you will!" Merlyn swore angrily. "If Lumeria is dead..then who
the hell is your master?"
     Onyx laughed. "For now...Empress Metallia. But...that will soon change."
     "Change?" Merlyn fought the pain as it increased.
     Onyx nodded. His souless eyes were unreadable..two dark orbs that showed
no emotion. "I think Metallia has the right idea...but the wrong agenda.
So...when the time is right...I will do what I had originally planned. Instead
of going against Beryl though...I will go against Metallia. You can help me in
this. I will spare your lives but enslave you both to my power. It would be
better then Metallia's I think."
     "I..I'd rather die..then..then be a slave!" Arianrod gasped in pain.
     Onyx nodded. "Then you shall both die. Either serve me or serve Metallia.
You have no choice. You had planned to come and see why Lumeria has not
contacted the Silver Imperium. In a way..we already have. And soon..we will be
on their doorstep."
     "You...you caused Chronos to blow up! Didn't you?" Merlyn's hate filled
stare bored into the dark man's souless eyes.
     "I had nothing to do with it. It was all Metallia's plan...carried out
with her power and Vindalla's natural abilities. Now...join me...or die!"
     Arianrod cried out from the pain. Merlyn's mind moved as quick as possible
while fighting this evil. He nodded. "We'll join you! Let us free!"
     Arianrod stared at him. "Merlyn...what?"
     "LET US FREE!" Merlyn shouted.
     Onyx laughed softly. "In time I will. As a sign of good faith, I will end
your pain. But, any attempt to teleport out of the bubble will end your life.
If you try to blast your way out...then Arianrod will die."
     "You want us to help you overthrow Metallia?" Merlyn gasped.
     "In time..." Onyx smiled. "For now...I"ll put you in a safe place." He
waved his hand. "Sleep!"
     Merlyn swore as he fought the spell. His mind recessed inward trying to
escape while his body slept. He tried to send a message to Arianrod but, she
was already unconscious. Buried in the deepest part of his soul, Merlyn began
to frantically form a plan...to escape and warn the Imperium...before it was
too late...

     
                     Chapter Eighteen: Mistrust!

     Defense Minister Devol looked up as Science Minister Alcon entered. "You
have something to say?"
     Alcon sat down. "You and I rarely agree. But, on this issue, I can see we
must unite to convince Queen Serenity of the falacy of her support regarding
this marriage issue."
     Devol turned off his computer. "Meaning that, the two of us need to
convince the Kings of the Imperium to do a little arm twisting?"
     "Exactly." Alcon sighed. "It won't take much. With Chronos gone, Mars must
now assume the burden as the second inner defense planet. Also, Queen
Serenity's policy of keeping this attack quiet..is wrong. We must use our
influence to convince her that, the new policy regarding Earth is wrong. We
need to back off again."
     "You feel it was an attack?" Devol looked him in the eye. "But from whom?
Tuatha? Lumeria? It was too powerful to have come from Atlantis."
     "Who can say?" Alcon shook his head. "That's why we must sever all contact
with those nations. Prince Endymion is here now. I suggest we convince him that
he should leave...immediately."
     "And if he doesn't?" Devol blinked.
     "Then he needs to be convinced otherwise." Alcon stood up. "I regret this
action. I am normally not like this. But, the security of the Imperium is at
stake. I want it to survive. While Queen Serenity is away, we should handle
this matter. I will meet with the Kings of the Imperium...quietly. Please
handle the matter of the Prince effectively."
     Devol nodded. "Princess Serenity will find another. This must be. On that
subject, we are in full agreement."
     "Then I'll be leaving for Mars within the hour to meet with King Holar.
From there, I'll inform you of my status."
     Devol stood up and opened the door. "Good luck. When you get back, Prince
Endymion will be gone."
     "I would expect no less from you." Alcon turned and walked out.
     Devol watched him go. He sighed and walked back to his desk. Waving his
hand over the holo-ball, a face appeared. "Yes, Minister Devol?"
     "We have a delicate situation. There's an Atlantean Prince here in the
heart of the Imperium. I feel he is a security risk. Remove him at once
please."
     The man nodded. "We'll handle it Sir. Anything else?"
     "Yes. This is of a sensitive nature. Do not let word of it leak out.
Princess Serenity and the Queen are too broken up over the destruction of
Chronos to deal with it. See to it that they are not informed of it."
     "Of course Sir." The image faded out. Devol turned and looked out the
window at Earth. "It was a mistake, Queen Serenity. But...mistakes can be
corrected. We can't bring back Chronos. But...we can save the rest...."

     "Somethings wrong Luna."
     Luna looked up at Artemis as he zoomed in on Earth. "What do you mean?"
     "I can't find Atlantis. It might be a trick of the light or something but,
it hardly seems likely. A whole continent can't disappear! Something must have
happened. We need to investigate this."
     Luna moved closer. "Let me see." She looked through the scope. "Are you
sure you're looking in the right place?"
     "Give me some credit, please!" Artemis voice took on an annoyance. "I know
how to run a scope! I'm telling you...there is no Atlantis! It's gone! It's
either invisible...which is unlikely...or no longer there."
     "Should we inform Prince Endymion of this?" Luna continued to look for the
missing continent.
     "I'm not sure. Perhaps we should talk with the Defense Minister before
informing the Princess of anything. Queen Serenity left her in charge but, I
don't think we should burden her. Besides...the Queen will be back soon."
     Luna smiled. "Okay then. Let's go find Devol and let him know." 
     The two ran through the castle to find him....


     Sailor Mercury scanned the rocks around her while the Sailor Senshi stood
watch.
     "It's so quiet here." Sailor Mars whispered. "I didn't realize the dark
side could seem so dead."
     "Give me more light." Mercury picked up a rock. "Hmmm...this is strange.
The computer indicates that, this is definitely a piece of what was once
Chronos but...it's not what I expected to find. In a normal stone, there would
be traces of solid molecular structure. But this..." her voice shook. "This
stone has had it's entire structure altered! And not from volcanic or other
normal means. It's almost as if something took it and twisted it inside out to
suck out all the energy."
     Sailor Jupiter moved forward. "But, what would cause that?"
     Mercury activated her visor and scanned. "Some sort of temporal
displacement perhaps. It would take a great deal of power to alter something
from within. But, according to Queen Serenity, this was a natural catastrophe.
Yet..the evidence doesn't support that theory."
     "Then what's going on then?" Sailor Venus asked.
     "There's no mistake." Mercury looked up through her visor. "This was
not natural. Something of temporal ability attacked Chronos and destroyed
it. The best person to talk to would be Sailor Pluto." She snapped her
computer shut. "Let's go."
     The Senshi formed a teleport bubble and winked out.....


     "It's getting late. You should be in bed soon."
     Princess Serenity looked up and smiled. "Even though I'm technically ruler
of this Imperium?" she giggled.
     Sailor Saturn nodded. "I have to leave soon. But, I wanted to say goodbye.
Sailor Neptune told me to make sure you got your rest before I go."
     "Thank you." Serenity stood up and hugged Saturn close. "I'll miss you
but, I'll see you next time. I'll do as you ask." She turned and smiled at
Prince Endymion. "I just want to enjoy myself right now."
     Saturn grinned and bowed once. "Then..I shall leave you to your desires,
My Queen." She giggled and walked out.
     Princess Serenity blushed. "Uhmm...she didn't mean."
     Endymion laughed. "It's alright." He held her close. "She has nothing to
fear nor do the others. I would never compromise your virtue. I love you too
much."
     She sighed and held him close. "I want to stay with you forever, Endmyion.
But...I guess it is getting late. I'll see you in the morning."
     He kissed her gently and then hugged her one last time before letting her
go. "I"ll see you in the morning then. Thank you...for being all that you are."
     Serenity blew him a kiss and walked down the corridor...

     For several minutes, Prince Endymion stood looking at Earth. "I should be
home soon." he whispered. "But...I don't want to leave." He considered this.
The least he could do was to get in touch with them and let them know he was
alright. Who could help him do that? He thought a second. Minister Alcon might
have the answer. Endymion left his room and walked down the hallway..
     "Prince Endymion, Sir?"
     Hearing his voice, Endymion turned and saw two men. "Yes?"
     "Sir, we have a message from Atlantis for you. Please come."
     "From home?" Endymion smiled. "Show me where please."
     They led him through the castle into a little used part of it. As they did
so, Endymion's thoughts gnawed at him. Suddenly, he knew! "Wait a second..hold
on please."
     The two men stopped and looked at him.
     "Atlantis doesn't have a way to contact me! There's no communication link
of any type set up! What is going on here?"
     The men looked at each other. The one on the right smiled. "Your Highness,
it was just established. Please come, they are waiting to talk to you now."
     Something didn't seem right. Endymion stepped back and drew his sword.
"No. I don't think so. Who are you men?"
     The two drew their own swords. "YOU WILL COME WITH US NOW!!" the one on
the left shouted.
     "Kidnapping is it?" Endymion jumped up and swung his sword toward them.
They dove apart and, one swung at him. The Prince spun clear and jumped back.
"Why are you doing this?" he glared at them.
     "To remove a threat from the Imperium." They dove together at him and,
Endymion without thinking flew above them. As he came down, he reached in his
pocket in his shirt and found a rose he had put there earlier. He drew it out
as they advanced and it stiffened at his touch. He didn't even need to
concentrate, it was as if he had known how to do it all along! Then, he threw
it hard watching it fly and stab into the shoulder of the man on the right!
     The man screamed and fell over. The other swore and threw a bolo at
Endymion! The bolo spun in the air and, before the Prince could move, it
wrapped around him pinning his arms to his sides. The man advanced. "You're too
much of a threat to remain, Atlantean fool!" He punched Endymion in the chest
and threw him down. "I would kill you but, I have orders to the contrary. We'll
just lock you away until we can send you home!"
     Endymion cried out in pain as the man kicked him several times and slammed
his foot into Endymion's head. Then, darkness took him and, he consciously knew
no more.....

     Somewhere in the darkness of his subconscious, a voice was echoing.
     *Endymion...Endymion. I hope you can understand. Queen Beryl has had
Vindalla unleash an evil called Metllia. I cannot stop her. You must reach the
Imperium! Please Endymion!*
     The Prince gasped inwardly as he realized...this was Kinches. His friend
subconsciously was trying to warn him...of an evil that had already come.
Consciously he had not heard it. But now...in his dreams....he knew what he
must do. But remembering it when he regained consciousness...would be know what
he had to do then......?

     

                     Chapter Nineteen: Deadly Plots!

     Arianrod groaned as she realized she was coming to. But, was it a dream
or reality? Her eyes were foggy and, her head felt like it was going to
explode. She noticed Merlyn sitting with his head down. Glancing around, the
fox noticed she was in a dark place. Only the faint glow of some kind of energy
field gave off any light. "Merlyn...Merlyn, are you awake?"
     Her pain made her wince as she bent over. Her thoughts rushed back to
what had happened. "Onyx." she whispered. "That bastard!"
     *Ari!" Merlyn's voice echoed in her head.
     Startled, Arianrod looked at him. *Merlyn?? You're awake?*
     *Awake..and thinking of how to get out of this. The energy field that
surrounds us is such that, if we attack it, you might be killed by the backlash
from it. I can't risk that. Our enemies are fighting amongst themselves.*
     *They are?* Arianrod blinked.
     *Yes. This Onyx fool has ideas of his own. He plans to use us to help him
usurp Beryl and overcome this dark Metallia. With any luck, he'll get himself
wiped out and, we'll be able to escape. Even if we're unable to warn the
Millenium, we must somehow warn our own people. This Metallia plans to destroy
everything.*
     *Have you thought of a way to escape yet?* Arianrod looked over the energy
field that surrounded them.
     *Yes.* Merlyn sighed in his thoughts. *But, it's very risky. It requires
both of us linking our minds and drawing upon our power. We'll have to absorb
enough of the energy and then at a critical point break through. It's the only
way I can see.*
     *Then let's do it." Arianrod opened her mind. *The Silver Millenium will
be destroyed if we don't act soon.....*


     "THE TIME HAS COME!" Metallia's evil voice echoed through the temple.
Beryl and Vindalla looked up at her. "BERYL...PREPARE YOUR FORCES FOR THE NEXT
PHASE IN OUR PLANS. WITH CHRONOS GONE, THE SILVER MILLENIUM WILL BE CRIPPLED.
BEFORE THEY CAN RESTORE THEIR DEFENSE NETWORK, WE WILL CRUSH THEM COMPLETELY.
OUR NEXT TARGETS ARE THE OUTER PLANETS!!"

     Queen Beryl smiled. "Excellent, Empress Metallia. I will alert my forces
at once. In fact...I will see to it this is done by experts."
     Beryl turned to Vindalla. "I'm putting you in charge of this, Commander
Vindalla. Take your Fedkel Umi and destroy the outer worlds! Shortly after, I
will lead us against the inner worlds. I personally will destroy the capital on
the Moon and carry Queen Serenity's head back here!"
     Vindalla smiled. "I would suggest an expert warrior to take out the last
of the inner defense planets."
     Beryl looked past her. "Duke Kinches will do nicely in that regard."
     Vindalla smiled. "I was thinking the exact same thing, Queen Beryl." She
bowed and went to Kinches.
     Duke Kinches now controlled by darkness saw his love come to him. But, she
was no longer the love he knew. Within her was a terrifying evil. And although
that same evil now consumed him, there was yet a part that held out against it.
He had fiercely struggled against it. By staying quiet, he had managed to avoid
being discovered. His subconscious even now was crying out..hoping against hope
that Prince Endymion might hear him...
     "Duke Kinches." Vindalla smiled. "Take part of our forces..and proceed to
planet Mara. Destroy it utterly. Make it into an asteriod field to join it's
sister world, Chronos." Her eyes flashed as she smiled.
     Deep inside, Kinches cried out. He wanted to grab Vindalla and bring her
to her senses. Outwardly, he bowed in compliance. "I shall do as you ask,
Commander. But, why do you wish the entire planet destroyed?"
     "As a signal to the Silver Millenium...that it's days are at an end."
     Kinches cried inside. That part of him still barely resisting the darkness
fled deeper. His love was gone. A wraith of evil had replaced her.
     "I shall destroy Mara utterly." Duke Kinches looked over at Sorcerror
Telchin. "You will assist me. Gather some of our best warriors."
     "Kinches..." Vindalla leaned forward and kissed him. She smiled. "If you
should happen to run into the Sailor Senshi...kill them all!"
     "It is done." Kinches bowed and left the room with Telchin...

     Vindalla smiled and turned to Queen Beryl. She looked up at the
darkness hovering that was Metallia. "I go now with your permission to do
your will. Within a few hours, the outer worlds will no longer exist."
     "DESTROY THEM!!!" Metallia responded.
     Vindalla flung her cape behind her back and smoothed her black dress.
She bowed once more and faded out....

     
     "Looking at the evidence you've presented, it appears we've made a major
mistake." King Holar sighed.
     The holo-image of King Sora flickered. "But are you sure about this
Minister Alcon? By all intents and purposes, Queen Serenity's report shows the
destruction of Chronos was nothing more then a natural disaster."
     "I did not actually see what did it." Alcon answered. "Minister Devol was
there. But, Devol indicated to me, it was an attack of some sort possibly."
     "Possibly." King Mosel's image wavered. "You're talking about disbanding
the very alliances we just created. We must have hard facts! We can't throw
away a chance for peace when you have no clear proof. Even if it was an attack,
there's nothing to show it came from Earth."
     "Perhaps the King of Mercury would like to prove it didn't?" Alcon shot
back. Mosel's image faded slightly then came back. Alcon looked at them all.
"I was for this contact with Earth at first. But, as things have progressed, I
have noticed an underlying fear. I feel the time was not right. We made a
mistake. We should back off now before something truly terrifying happens.
Princess Serenity marrying the Atlantean Prince is unacceptable."
     "She will do as she wishes." King Holar snorted.
     "Then she has no right to be our future Queen!" Alcon said hotly. He
turned to King Holar. "You of all people know what I'm saying. Your world must
now take on that duty left from Chronos destruction. The defense network must
be maintained. It must be strengthened! We must find out what did this and how
to prevent it again!"
     "Why don't we suspend relations then?" King Bolva responded. The King of
Jupiter looked grim. "Nothing so permanent as a dissolution but, a temporary
measure. At least until we can discover whether Chronos destruction was truly
an act of nature...or an attack."
     "It was an attack.: Alcon insisted. "Both the Defense Minister and myself
are in full agreement on that."
     "It's rare you two agree on anything." King Sora smiled.
     "The King of Venus speaks wisely." Alcon bowed. "That alone should tell
you my great concern here. Your vote united can override Queen Serenity's. And
she currently is in seclusion. I am not suggesting you as Kings take her power
from her. But...something must be done. My recommendation is, all contact with
Earth be temporarily severed. All those on any Imperium worlds who are not
citizens should be deported. Prince Endymion of course will be included."
     King Mosel bowed his head. "And we talked of a new age. An age of peace.
How did we become so paranoid?"
     "Paranoia becomes apparent when whole planets are destroyed." Alcon
surveyed the Kings slowly as he spoke. "We must be ready. Please...vote
wisely."

     Alcon left King Holar's throne room. It was only a half hour before he was
called back. The King of Mars stood up. "It appears you and the Defense
Minister speak wisely. We the Kings of the respective Imperium planets have
voted to suspend all contact with Earth. Temporarily, we will remove Queen
Serenity's authority until this matter can be thoroughly investigated. As such,
we appoint you as temporary governor of the Moon. Queen Serenity will be
informed upon her return."
     "Thank you for letting wisdom prevail." Alcon bowed. "I shall inform
Princess Serenity at once." Alcon turned and left quickly to return to the
Moon......
          
     
     "Can you tell us what happened?" Sailor Mercury asked.
     Sailor Pluto's image bowed it's head. "I have been forbidden to speak of
what occured regarding the destruction of Chronos."
     "By Queen Serenity?" Sailor Venus asked.
     "I cannot say." Pluto looked up. "Your research seems to indicate an enemy
of a possible temporal nature."
     "Yes that's true." Mercury looked at the others. "Please Sailor Pluto! I
know you can't leave your post. But...what really happened?"
     Pluto looked at her staff then at the Time Doorway behind her. "If it were
within my power, I would go into the past and try to prevent Chronos
destruction. But, there are higher powers that frown upon taking such license
with that which we have."
     "OH COME ON!!" Jupiter glared at Pluto. "You know something! Tell us!"
     Sailor Pluto's image faded then came back. "I...I can only tell you this.
Before Chronos was destroyed...I received indications that something was trying
to come through the time corridor."
     "Something??" Mars gulped.
     "Yes...something...indescribable. I cannot say anymore. I have been
ordered to maintain my post. I will do so. If necessary...I will seal the
gateway to me."
     "But..that would cut you off forever..." Sailor Venus whispered.
     "Until Queen Serenity reopened it...yes." Pluto bowed. "I cannot help you.
You as Senshi know your duty. If you feel there is a threat...you must act."
     Mercury nodded. "Thank you, Sailor Pluto. We'll do what we have to."
     Pluto's image faded out. Sailor Mars looked at everyone. "What now?"
     "Find Queen Serenity." Mercury pulled out her computer and pulled up her
information on Chronos. "She must have a reason why she's keeping things from
us all...."


     Princess Serenity stared at Alcon in disbelief. "Relieved? What are you
talking about Alcon! My mother is the Queen of the Silver Imperium! You can't
just remove her authority!"
     Alcon nodded. "In times of major crisis if the entire Imperium Council
disagrees with her, we have that authority. It maintains order. During this
time of great unrest, we feel this is necessary. By that order, I must assume
the duties of your mother."
     Serenity shook her head. "No! No! Alcon...you're my friend! You've always
been my friend! You wouldn't do this to me! To my mother!!!"
     Minister Alcon bowed his head. "Regrettably, friendship has nothing to do
with this. It has to do with proper order. Until your mother returns and she
meets with the Council...you are relieved as her replacement. I'm sorry."
     Serenity found herself shaking against her will. She looked around. "Have
you seen Prince Endymion?"
     "Prince Endymion? No, I haven't. I'll look into it if you like. It's
possible he returned to Earth."
     Princess Serenity turned and stared out the window at the beautiful blue
planet. Tears fell from her eyes. "No...he wouldn't do that without saying
goodbye."
     "As you wish." Alcon sighed. "I will look into the matter of his abcense.
In the meantime, please take this opportunity to rest. When your mother
returns, this will all be worked out."
     Serenity nodded and walked silently from the room. Alcon swore. "Forgive
me my dear Princess. It's for the best."
     Alcon moved to the holo-ball that hovered over the Queen's desk and waved
his hand. "Attention please. By order of the Imperium Council, I have assumed
leadership of the Moon. As such, it is the Council's wishes that, all visitors
be they Atlantean, Lumerian, or Tuathan de Danaan be removed at once. Policy
regarding friendship overtures to Earth have been suspended as of this time. I
order all Sailor Senshi to return to their respective planets. That is all."
Alcon waved his hand over the ball cutting the link. Sighing heavily, he sat
down and closed his eyes.....

     "ENDYMION!!!!!" Serenity shouted. She ran through the corridors of the
castle. "ENDMYION!!!! Where are you??" Her voice cracked feeling a sudden fear.
He wouldn't have left her. What could have happened to him? It was then that
Alcon's message came over the central link for the Imperium. Serenity stared in
horror at his image as he announced the Imperium Council's decision. In anger,
she ran toward the office of the Defense Minister...

     "I TELL YOU IT'S GONE!!!" Artemis shouted.
     Devol sighed. "A whole continent? I suppose it's possible. But, since
Chronos was destroyed, who's to say that the same natural disaster didn't also
destroy Atlantis?"
     "You know that was no natural disaster." Luna glared at him. "You and
Alcon have taken it upon yourselves to isolate us! What about Prince Endymion?"
     "He's returned to Earth." Devol shrugged.
     "THERE IS NO ATLANTIS!!" Artemis shouted again. "LOOK! See for yourself!"
     Devol nodded. "I believe you. That's why while the Queen is gone, these
measures must be taken. The Council overode her policy concerning Earth. We
must keep it at arms length now."
     "NO! Artemis shook his head. "The Tuatha and the Lumerians might be able
to help. The two Tuathan ambassadors left to find out what's going on."
     "Have they returned?" Devol asked.
     "No, they haven't." Luna's eyes filled with tears. "But, that's no reason
to let paranoia take over."
     "Did it ever occur to you that, the Tuatha might be planning to hit us?
They may have been scouting our weaknesses! It's my job as head of defense to
see to it that what happened with Chronos won't happen again!"
     "You and Alcon have taken this opportunity to seize power." Artemis glared
at him. "We'll see what Queen Serenity has to say about this!"
     "Fine." Devol opened the door. "If you have nothing more to say, please
leave. I have better things to do then listen to animals."
     Artemis eyes flashed in anger! "ANIMALS! We're Queen Serenity's personal
advisors!"
     "Another thing that needs to be rectified that I'll speak to Alcon about.
If you advised her that contact with Earth was something of value, we will take
that into consideration."
     "You know the entire Council voted for contact! What the hell has gotten
into you??" Artemis swearing took Luna off guard. She had rarely seen him this
angry.
     Devol opened the door wider. "You're dismissed."
     Luna sighed and walked out. Artemis stared at Devol in anger a few minutes
longer before he too left. As they walked down the hall, the two noticed
Princess Serenity coming toward them.
     "Princess Serenity.." Luna began..
     "Is Minister Devol there?"
     "He won't listen to whatever you're going to say." Artemis sighed.
     "Endymion is missing!" Serenity said quickly.
     "What?" Luna looked at Artemis. "Artemis...Atlantis...."
     "What about Atlantis?" Serenity's voice was filled with fear.
     Artemis walked over and rubbed against the Princess. "We need to find your
mother...now!"

     Lord Onyx smiled as he watched Minister Devol shut the door. *The trouble
with you fools is, you trust too much in your superiority. It's so easy to
manipulate and control you..* He laughed inwardly as he watched from his
invisible position.
*I expect Metallia will be just as easy to control.*

     He opened his thoughts....*Topazite!*
     A dark haired woman appeared near him. *I am here Lord Onyx*
     *I have begun the process of bringing down the Moon Kingdom. While Beryl
and Vindalla launch their attack....take those loyal to me...and destroy the
Tuatha de Danaan!!!!*
     *It shall be done.* Topazite faded out.
     Onyx smiled wickedly. He watched as Minister Alcon continued the isolation
procedures that would cut off the Silver Imperium from Earth. *Perhaps this new
dark energy within me will be my path to total power!!!!*



                      Chapter Twenty: Last Dance!

     Endymion swore as he felt the pain return to his head. He was coming to
after being submerged into what felt like a long vacuum of reality. But as, he
opened his eyes, his subconscious warning from Duke Kinches burned clearly in
his mind. An evil called Metallia had taken over. Beryl, Vindalla, and all of
Lumeria were now enemies! The Silver Imperium had to be warned before it was
too late. Realizing his hands were tied, he worked at the knots to free
himself...

     
     "Where's your mother, Princess?" Luna asked.
     Serenity wiped the tears from her eyes. "She..she's at the special place
still. I could try to reach her but, I would think the Council might have done
that."
     "They made no attempt that I'm aware of." Artemis said bitterly. "Your
mother is our last hope."
     Serenity nodded and opened her mind. *Mother...can you hear me? We need
you now. I need you to return. Something is wrong here. Please mother.*

     Suddenly, the two cats turned as a white light filled the room and, Queen
Serenity appeared. Luna gasped. "Queen Serenity! You've returned!"
     The Queen nodded and hugged her daughter close. "Atlantis is destroyed. I
don't know what did it. I'm also aware of what's going on up here. Alcon and
Devol have usurped my authority."
     "What are you going to do?" Artemis asked.
     Queen Serenity sat down heavily. "I cannot use my power to subvert the
entire Imperium. That would be foolish and, I would never do it. The Kings must
be convinced to return that power to me. It feels like this is all by design.
I regret that either Lumeria or the Tuathan de Danaan may be responsible.
But, I have no proof. We can only wait currently. I will go to see Alcon now."
     "Mother..." Princess Serenity hesitated. "Endymion...is missing."
     "And Alcon has declared all non-Imperium people to be deported or
imprisoned." Queen Serenity sighed. "I suspect that he was captured and is
being held somewhere. If he does show up, the palace guards will arrest him. We
must create a way for him to get to you, Serenity. Perhaps he will have more
information about why all this is happening."
     "But, what can we do?" Luna asked.
     Queen Serenity smiled thinly. "I had mentioned earlier holding a ball to
show a representation that Chronos destruction did not mean our end to our way
of life. I do not have the power to govern at present. However..I can order a
ball be held. And, it will be a masked ball."
     Artemis grinned. "I get it! If Prince Endymion shows up, he can wear a
mask and nobody will be the wiser!"
     "Exactly." Queen Serenity nodded. "That may be when he can get to us and
tell us what happened. In the meantime, I will talk to Alcon and Devol. But, I
have a feeling something darker is at work here...attacking us from within.
But, I need time to get full information on it. I will need to send the Sailor
Senshi out on a mission."
     "Thank you, Mother." The Princess hugged the Queen close to her.
     "I love you, Serenity." The Queen smiled. "Prince Endymion loves you too.
He'll return. He'll find a way to reach you. I have just made it easier for
him." She brushed her daughter's hair back then left the room.....
 

     *Concentrate Ari!!!!*
     The two ambassadors from Tuatha concentrated trying to subvert
the energy that surrounded them. Merlyn gasped. "What's this thing
made of??" he felt drained. The darkness around him was overpowering.
     "I'm...getting weaker." Arianrod whispered.
     Merlyn looked quickly at her. *NO!* he said within her mind.
*Ari, hang on! We can do this! We've been in tough scrapes before!*

     Laughter filled the area. Both of them looked and saw Lord Onyx
appear. "Are you having a nice rest?" he asked. His dark orbs where
eyes should have been made his face seem errie in the dim light.
     "I told you we'd help you." Merlyn swore. "Let us out!"
     "Very soon, I will." Onyx grinned. "For now, you're fine where
you are. I have things well in hand."
     "Do you now?" Merlyn laughed. "If that's so, why aren't you
already sitting on the throne of the Imperium?"
     "I'm not interested in the Imperium...but they are an obstacle
that must be overcome before I can proceed with my plans."
     "Your nothing but an underling of Beryl!" Arianrod spat. "What
plans could you possibly have of importance?"
     "You'll know soon." Onyx laughed softly. "Soon...everyone will.
Even...Metallia." He bowed once and faded out...

     "Damn!" Merlyn concentrated his power. "This isn't working. If we
don't get out of here soon, we've had it!!!!"


     Prince Endymion sighed with relief as he worked the last of his ropes
loose. Standing up, he saw he was in a storage room of some type. Looking
up, he saw a high window. Could he reach it? He knew the door had to be
locked. Gently he tried it anyway and found it was.
     He returned his attention to the window. Closing his eyes, he reached
within himself. *Be there Kinches...be there* he thought. Slowly, he felt
his feet leave the ground and he began floating upward. Then, he gasped
and fell to the floor. "Dammit." he whispered.
     Getting up, he balled up his fists then sighed trying to open his mind.
*Relax* he thought to himself. Closing his eyes, he tried once again to
levitate. Once more, he felt his feet leave the floor. He floated upward
to the window but, it was locked. He banged on it trying to open it. The
glass material was solid.
     Endymion still holding his concentration backed up still hovering in
the air. Reaching in, his pocket, he found a rose. It stiffened to his
touch. Aiming, he threw it hard and the impact shattered the glass.
Then, angling downward, he gasped as he flew out the window into the
night.....

     Princess Serenity looked up at the Earth. Her white dress fluttered
in the wind. She could hear the distant ocean and the fountains nearby.

     "Princess....Serenity.." a soft voice said in the night.
     Looking down, she gasped and felt herself feel a leap of joy within
her heart. "Prince....Endymion."

     "I can't talk long." Endymion looked behind him then turned back. "An
evil is coming. I know what it is. A force called Metallia has invaded
Earth and is taking us all over. Beryl and her people have already succumbed to
it. I heard talk of a masked ball being held...I'll see you there and tell you
more."
     Serenity still in shock from seeing him appear nodded slowly. "I knew you
would come back! I'll see you at the ball soon, my darling."

     "HALT YOU!!!!!"
     Endymion turned and saw guards running toward him. "I have to go,
Princess. I'll see you soon." He blew her a kiss then ran quickly into the
night with the guards in pursuit...

     Serenity felt a tear trickle down her cheek. "Alcon..why did you let this
happen? What made you and Devol do this?" Serenity took one last look at the
Earth before going back inside.....      
         
     Over the next several hours as the evening deepened, Princess Serenity
prepared herself for the ball. She hadn't seen her friends the Sailor Senshi
since they left. She wondered if Mercury's suspicions would reveal anything.
Was what Endymion said about someone called Metallia true? Had an evil force
invaded Earth? It would explain a lot of it were true. Artemis had said
Atlantis was gone. If the continent were destroyed, that would be an indication
that Endymion was telling the truth. But, how had he found out? She brushed her
long hair in her impatience. Then, she put it back into it's original style and
checked herself in the mirror before leaving the room...
     
     The ballroom was wonderfully decorated. Everywhere, people were already
dancing. Yet, there was an air of unrest present. Everyone was feeling on edge
because of Chronos destruction. Across the room, Serenity could see her mother
talking with Ministers Alcon, and Devol. The Princess hoped she would be
successful in regaining her authority over the Imperium. But, that depended on
the Kings.
     Serenity began to descend the stairs. People smiled up at her. They were
all wearing masks and laughing as they danced with each other. Then, as she
paused on the stairs, she felt someone take her hand. Startled, she turned and
looked downward.
     The masked gentlemen smiled. "Princess...shall we dance?"
     "Endymion." she whispered.
     He nodded and she descended the stairs onto the dance floor. They moved
close together and he spun her in time to the music. As she crossed him, he
leaned close to her. "We may very well be enemies soon. Lumeria no longer
exists. An evil force called Metallia is taking over Earth. Kinches got the
information to me before he too was overcome."
     "Overcome?" Serenity fought back tears. "Why are you standing here? We
should be telling my mother and Minister Devol!"
     "Minister Devol...is the one that had me put away."
     Serenity stared in disbelief pausing midway through the dance. "No..." she
shook her head. "Devol and Alcon are loyal! They wouldn't do it!"
     "Do you love me, Princess?" he asked softly.
     "You know I do. For all eternity."
     "Then, believe me." Endymion looked over the crowd. "This mask may not be
enough to save me should I be discovered. Your mother knows I am here. Knows I
am trying to help. I heard that Atlantis is gone. That means, you are all I
have left, Serenity. I will protect you with my life. Soon...Metallia and Beryl
will come to destroy your people."
     "What can we do?" Serenity's voice shook in fear.
     "Trust me. I will protect you, my darling. Your Sailor Senshi will protect
you. Here I am considered an enemy. Beryl is after your secret to immortality.
I have learned the Lumerians are long lived. But, they are a dying race.
Kinches told me all this before he too was overcome."
     "By Metallia?" Serenity stared into his eyes. The mask formed a window
which she seemed to look into his soul with.
     "Yes. Metallia's goal is to destroy all. She is a dark force from another
dimension that Vindalla released because, she did not trust your people.
Minister Devol and probably Alcon are under her dark control somehow. It's the
only explanation for their actions."
     "And Devol and Alcon run the Moon now! Plus the entire Imperium because,
they are telling the Kings what they want them to hear! Endymion...I'm scared.
I don't want to lose all this. I don't want anything to happen to you! There
must be something we can do."
     "Trust in your mother's power..and in me. I will love you
forever...Princess." He kissed her and held her closer as the lights dimmed....


     "Your staying?" Uranus shook her head. "I thought we were leaving
together."
     Neptune shrugged. "I have a few things to finish up here before returning
home. I know I said I'd come to your planet and, I will do that soon."
     "What's on your mind?" Uranus eyes narrowed slightly. "Your acting like
you don't feel right about something."
     "The fact the Imperium has suspended contact with Earth...that alone is
enough to worry me." Neptune sighed. "We were all ordered to return to our home
worlds. But...I don't take orders unless they come from Queen Serenity."
     Uranus laughed. "In that we agree. But, you and I have always been close.
I too don't feel things are as they should be. Call it gut instinct. I feel as
if we're being watched."
     Neptune nodded and put her head on Uranus shoulder. "I know...me too...."


     "Queen Serenity...can we talk?"
     The Queen turned and noticed the new inner Senshi standing behind her. She
nodded and led them into a small room. "I'm glad you're all here. We have a
problem. Through a series of events, I have lost the power to govern the
Imperium.."
     "DAMMIT!!" Jupiter swore and slammed her fist into her hand. "So what now?
Who's in charge?"
     "Besides Alcon and Devol..probably the Kings." Mars bowed her head. "I
heard Dad had something to do with this."
     "I don't blame your father." Queen Serenity smiled slightly. "I also don't
blame Alcon or Devol. There is something else at work here."
     "HUH?" Sailor Venus swallowed and shook her head. "What do you mean by
something? It sounds scary."
     "Your freaking out, Venus." Mars chastised her.
     Sailor Mercury laughed. Then, her smile faded. "No..I can see what you
mean, Queen Serenity. It's like something is taking us over from within. What
do you want us as Senshi to do?"
     "We can take Alcon and Devol and give them a nice nap?" Jupiter suggested.
     "No...that isn't something that would be proper. Besides...the evil will
soon be here." Queen Serenity's eyes filled with tears. "Our worlds...our
Kingdoms..will soon be at war. We can depend on no one but ourselves. I want
you all to be ready when it comes. Please stay and defend the Moon. I will need
all the help I can get. Artemis and Luna are watching as, I don't know if I can
trust our defenses to give us an accurate report. With Devol compromised..
nothing can be depended on anymore."
     "Except us."  Sailor Mars nodded with determination. "We saved our worlds
from those meteors. We can sure as hell save them from this!"
     Queen Serenity clasped hands with Mars then, the others too joined in. She
smiled. "Thank you, everyone. Your living up to your name as Senshi. Defend
your people. That is all I can ask."
     "What about the outer Senshi?" Venus asked. "Should they be told?"
     "I think they already know. Sailor Neptune has been quiet. She tends to
pick up on things. Sailor Uranus was with her and, they tend to share their
feelings."
     "Among other things." Jupiter added.
     A quick glare from Sailor Mars silenced Jupiter. Queen Serenity sighed.
"Sailor Saturn is on her world now. If anything happens, she will be the first
to deal with it. I cannot remove you all from here. Sailor Pluto guards the
Time Gateway. That leaves Uranus and Neptune to help defend. Sailor Mara is on
her world. If I were the enemy...that would be the first place I would hit."
     "Queen Serenity, if you know all this, we have to warn them!" Sailor
Mercury's voice was filled with urgency.
     "I have. I find due to the Earth fiasco...my word does not have the pull
it used to with the Imperium Kings. I cannot use my power to force them to
listen. The enemy has done a thorough job. I can only hope that our defenses
are adequate enough. All we can do now is wait."
     "NO!!" Jupiter swore. "Your Majesty...Queen Serenity.." she stammered in
anger, "we can do something! We can hit them first!!"
     "And be like them?" Queen Serenity looked at them all. "The Silver
Imperium has existed since the end of the Sailor Wars. I will not be the one to
lead us into an attack. We will defend ourselves. Beyond that..we must have
faith our defenses will hold out."
     "We'll be ready." Sailor Mars nodded to Jupiter. "Right?"
     "Damn right." Jupiter's face was filled with determination. "We'll show
them they can't push us Senshi around!"
     The room fell quiet. Queen Serenity looked up. "There is one more thing.
Prince Endymion is here..with Princess Serenity. If anyone tries to arrest
him...stop them. The darkness that controls Alcon and Devol tried to remove him
once. He was able to tell me enough to confirm what I had suspected while on
Earth."
     "We understand." Sailor Mercury smiled. "We'll protect them both with our
lives if necessary."
      "Be ready then." Queen Serenity turned and looked at Earth. "Soon...you
may have to...."


     "Hold me tighter, Endymion. I don't want this night to end. I don't want
your love to end."
     Endymion held Serenity close to him. His eyes tracked the guards that
stood nearby. "My love will never end, Princess. I'll be with you forever. Even
if we die and are reborn in another life...I will find you."
     "And make me your Queen." she whispered. "I love you, Endymion. No one
else. I'm yours forever."
     The Prince smiled and kissed her on the forehead. "I want this night to
last forever...but I fear soon our lives will be forever changed. Before that
happens...I'll hold you as long as I can......"



     Merv Petrim, sat up quickly as his holo-scope went wild with images. "What
the hell??" He quickly tightened the field. "Those are...people! But...they
can't be!" His eyes grew in fear as he watched the massive force move through
space...a dark energy cloud surrounding them!
     Petrim swung his chair and hit the intercom. "ATTENTION!! ATTENTION, ALL
DEFENSE UNITS! WE ARE UNDER ATTACK! I SAY AGAIN...WE ARE UNDER ATTACK!!!!"

     The dark force glowed with purple energy as it closed in on it's first
target....Uranus!!!!
     


                   Chapter Twenty One: Outer Worlds End!

     Sailor Saturn watched in horror on the holo-ball as she saw the dark force
approaching planet Uranus. She watched in agony as Uranus military attacked
with all it's might trying to destroy a dark evil that threatened to engulf it.
Now...as Uranus began to darken as it's life was being torn from it, she could
stand by no more. Saturn turned and ran from the room startling the military
officials present. "SAILOR SATURN!!! WAIT! THERE'S NOTHING YOU CAN DO!!!"
     Saturn ignored the shouts and ran with all her strength toward the main
teleport pad....

     
     "CONTINUE FIRING!!!" Commander Jinsol ordered.
     Powerful lasers and rockets pounded the incoming darkness as it descended
from space. Again and again, explosions went off in the atmosphere. But, as the
clouds began to clear, it was evident no damage had been done to the dark force
as it approached.
     Jinsol turned suddenly as a sudden flash appeared beside him.."What..?"

     "DIE!" Sorcerress Ember smiled.

     Jinsol cried out in agony as dark energy sucked his life...began to
possess his body.
     Sorcerress Nadi laughed as she landed. "Well done, Ember. Now...we shall
take this world.."
     "NOT WHILE I LIVE!!!"
     Nadi startled turned and watched as through the darkness, a figure
came into view. She was small but, her demeanor was what caught Nadi's
attention. She held a staff and pointed it at the two Sorcerress.
     "I AM SAILOR SATURN! And while I live...you won't win this fight!"
     "Sailor Saturn?" Nadi laughed. "I was expecting Uranus. Fool. Do you have
any idea what you are dealing with? We know all about your Imperium!"
     "Then you know we are nothing to trifle with!" Saturn raised her staff
upward..."SILENCE...GLAIVE..."
      Saturn screamed as she was thrown backward before she could finish the
attack. Someone grabbed her from behind. Turning her head, she saw a man
grinning wickedly. "LET GO!"
     "SUFFER!" he whispered in her ear. Saturn gasped as dark energy attacked
her ripping her apart. She watched as the staff fell from her grasp...
     Ember stepped over and picked it up. "Is this what the Sailor Senshi are
like in battle? If that is so...this will be a quick end to your Imperium."
     "DAMN YOU!" Saturn shouted in pain.
     "Such language from one so young." Nadi snickered. "It's almost too easy.
Empress Metallia shall soon rule all. You will either join us or die!"
     "KILL ME THEN!!" Saturn shouted. "I'd rather die then join you!"
     "As you wish..." Nadi raised her hand upward. A ball of purple energy
filled it and she slowly lowered it as she saw the terror in Saturn's face.
"Your young life...so frail. It's a pity you'll never know what you might have
been."
     Saturn glared as Nadi opened her hand and prepared to end her life.....

     "WOOOOOOOOOORRRRRLLLLDDD......SHAKING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

     Ember screamed as the blast slammed into her back crushing her to the
dirt. Nadi swore and turned just in time to be met with a slam across the face.
The man holding Saturn leaped back as a sword cut through his arm. He screamed
and disappeared into the darkness..
     "Saturn...are you alright?"
     "Yes..." Saturn gasped pulling herself from the ground. "Thanks for
showing up when you did."
     Uranus smiled. "You came here...to save my world."
     An explosion made both of them turn. Uranus could see the city burning in
the distance. "But...I think we're both too late..."
     Nadi laughed. "That's right. It doesn't matter if you win this fight. What
matters is your final end. You and your kind will die."
     "YOU WITCH!!!" Uranus spun toward her but, Nadi leaped up with new
strength. "Your world is finished!!!! Even now the dark power will rip it to
it's very foundations! The core of your planet will crack!"
     " NOOOOO!!!" Uranus swung at Nadi but, Nadi laughed again. Flying upward,
she grinned. "It's over, fools. Soon, all life here will end. Even now, the
worlds of Neptune and Pluto will suffer the same fate."

     "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!" Uranus screamed as the enemy withdrew...

     Sailor Saturn grabbed her arm. "Come on! They're heading for Neptune! We
have to help!!!"
     Uranus grit her teeth as she saw the thousands of dead and dying in the
streets. She noticed the air was getting harder to breathe. "They've taken out
the atmosphere generators, Saturn. My world is dead. I have no more home.
     "You have us!" Saturn shouted. "And, you have Sailor Neptune! COME ON!!!"
     Uranus looked up. She remembered how Sailor Mara had put aside her loss of
Chronos and had gone on to help save their worlds. She nodded. "Okay..let's
go!!"
     
     
     Vindalla smiled as the world of Pluto hung silently below her.
     "This world...with it's artificial life systems...shall know soon the true
meaning of an icy death!!"
     Vindalla nodded to her force leaders and slowly the dark force descended.
Their targets picked out well in advance, she proceeded herself to the one
place she had heard rumor of she wanted possession of...the Time Portal. If
Vindalla possessed this...Metallia would have the power to expand her empire
for all eternity!

     Sailor Pluto looked up as she saw her world under attack. She gripped her
staff and prepared to help defend it. The military were being defeated badly!
She alone might be able to save it. As she began to move, words suddenly rang
in her head..."Pluto...I don't care what it takes! You have to protect the Time
Portal at all costs! Even if you must seal yourself in...you must!"
     Pluto watched as her world began to lose power. The darkness was consuming
it. She fought back the tears of agony and continued to maintain her
post..waiting..to seal herself inside forever..if needed...

     Vindalla laughed as the world of Pluto fell in defeat. The cities in
flames were a landmark to her greatness. She smiled as the temperature began to
drop. "Freeze..or suffocate when your atmosphere goes. Either way, you're
finished fools!"  She smiled wickedly. Seeing the destruction of Pluto, she
went to where she knew the Portal awaited her...

     Energy filled the corridor! Sailor Pluto turned and watched as something
tried to come through. This one did not have the power of the first. But, she
knew there was no one to help her this time. She knew Queen Serenity was
depending on her to keep what could be a devastating weapon from the enemy's
grasp. 

     Vindalla waved her hands concentrating. The door was there but, something
kept it shut. She tried to see past it. A figure came into view. *Who are you?*
she sent mentally...

     Sailor Pluto heard Vindalla's thoughts. She shut her mind not wishing to
reveal herself. It was over. She could feel the power of this devil woman. Knew
that she had no choice. Pluto raised her staff and spoke the words that she
prayed she would never have to.....
               "TIME....VORTEX.......SEAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

     An explosion formed around the door and seemed to burn along it's edges.
Pluto gasped as the fog around her thickened and, she felt the thought attempts
of the person on the other side fade away. She felt herself trembling as she
realized she had shut the gateway. Sealed herself into this "pocket". As the
light faded from the gateway's edges, she gripped her staff with her right hand
and held it facing upward. "A Sailor Senshi's duty...is to protect the
Imperium. I shall guard my post and not leave it...for as long as it takes."
Her own voice echoed in the corridor. The enemy was winning. How long would
that wait be? How long...before Queen Serenity used her power to unseal...the
gateway....

     Vindalla swore and attacked the doorway with a vengeance as it faded from
her view. As it disappeared, her energy flew past it into the darkened sky...
     "I have failed!" she swore. "But no matter. Soon, we shall destroy
all..and then we shall retake this prize!" 
     The world of Pluto was destroyed. Vindalla flew upward and met with Kandow
as his forces killed the last of the world's people.
     "Take your forces to the Moon Capital." Vindalla instructed. "I will deal
with the inner worlds. By that time, Kinches will have destroyed the planet
Mara and we will unite as one to destroy everything else! Nadi is already
taking out Uranus, and Neptune! On the way to the inner worlds, I will make
sure Jikell took out Jupiter and Saturn. 
     Kandow bowed and faded out....

     Vindalla laughed and proceeded toward Jupiter....


     "TAKE COVER!! ALL CITIZENS TAKE COVER!!"
     The alarm claxons screamed as the explosions intermixed with them
heralding Jikell's arrival on Saturn. Jupiter had been a tough fight but, with
the Sailor Senshi apparently occupied elsewhere, he knew he had won. The
military had been an easy defeat. Now...it was time to deal with Saturn.
     As Jikell moved to land, he smiled as he watched his forces overwhelm this
world's defenses. Even now, Nadi and Vindalla had wiped out Uranus and Pluto.
Nadi would be finishing off Neptune and, after he destroyed this world, he
would rejoin her to mop up the rest of the worlds. It had been an easy battle
thus far. Metallia was preparing to move with her head General's and Beryl to
destroy the Moon Capital. All was going according to plan.
     
     Jikell gasped in agony as something powerful slammed him in the back!
Crying out, he hit the ground and turned to see who his attacker was.
     Sailor Mara smiled. "You bounce off the ground so nicely! Perhaps you'd
like to try it again?"
     Jikell struggled to his feet. "Your precense here dooms your world, Sailor
Mara! Even now, an attack will soon destroy it!"
     "My world's defenses are stronger then you think!" Mara smiled. "I can
afford to come here and help! "ATOOOOOOMIC...SHOCKWAVE....INCIIIINERATE!!!!!"

     Jikell screamed as the blast of energy sent him flying across the ground
like a stone skipping across water. Mara turned and saw the cities in flames in
the distance. "No..." she whispered.
     Jikell laughed. "Kill me...if you can. It no longer matters. You're people
are dead!"
     "SLEEEEEEEP TRAAAAAANCEEE....EXECUTE!!!!"
     Jikell jerked unprepared as this second attack hit him. He fell back, his
eyes staring upward.
     Mara walked over and stood over him. "TALK! You're Lumerian! Who's behind
this...Beryl?"
     "No.." Jikell whispered. "Metallia."
     "What?" Mara looked up as another explosion sounded in the distance.
"Explain this!"
     "Metallia..is a dark power. She comes from another dimension. Vindalla
called her to help our people and..."
     "HELP YOU?" Mara wiped the tears from her eyes. "Dear god...she's
destroyed you! And us!!! What is your final goal?"
     "To obtain immortality...and overall control of the universe."
     Mara grit her teeth remembering Chronos destruction. She saw that this
world was dying. "How can Metallia be defeated?"
     "I don't know." Jikell whispered.
     Mara balled up her fists. "My world...the planet Mara. Which of you is
going to attack it?"
     "Already under attack. Duke Kinches leads that force."
     "KINCHES!!" Mara swore. She turned and ran toward the city. Explosions
sounded around her as she made her way through the dead and dying. There was no
time left. The atmosphere here was fading. There was no hope left for Saturn.
She could see rings forming around it from destroyed moon's that had once
orbited. Finding a trans-platform, she teleported back to her own world....


     "WOOOOOOOOORLD....SHAKING!!!!!"
     Nadi gasped as the ball of golden light slammed her to the ground. Gasping
she stood up. "YOU AGAIN!!!"
     "I won't let you do to Michiru's world what you did to mine!" Uranus
grated through her teeth. "I'll see you dead first!!"
     "TRY THEN!!!!" Nadi shouted. The two slammed together, Uranus sword
slamming into Nadi's armor. Nadi smiled and, a purple force field forced Uranus
back.
     "Where is your other friend?" Nadi laughed.
     Uranus panted getting up. "Helping to destroy the rest of you! It's you
and I...COME ON!!!" Uranus screamed and swung at Nadi's head. Nadi flew upward
and fired a ball of energy. Uranus swore and spun clear as the explosive ball
hit blowing a hole in the ground.
     Nadi grinned as she watched explosions in the distance. "You poor fools.
Even if we fight to the end, your goal to save this planet is all for nothing!
You understand? The Dark Kingdom has won!"
     "DAMN YOU!!!" Uranus slammed into Nadi and punched her hard in the face.
"I'LL WIPE THAT SMIRK OFF YOUR UGLY FACE!!!"
     Nadi cried out as Uranus tore into her with a vengeance. Yet even as she
did so, she could hear the screams of agony. She was not able to win. She could
kill Nadi but, it wouldn't be enough. Uranus took a rock and slammed it into
Nadi's bleeding face! Stopping for a moment, she could see the atmosphere
turning red as blood. It was hopeless. Neptune like her own world was doomed..

     "Michiru.." she whispered in agony. "I'm sorry...dear god I'm sorry. I
tried so hard!!!!" Uranus looked at the sky and screamed in frustration....


     The city fell apart around Ember as she laughed. It was finished. Once the
inner worlds were done, Jupiter's end would be complete. Jikell had done a good
job. All that remained was to ensure it's destruction and move on to her next
target...Mars. 
     Ember watched as the thousands of dead littered the streets. For a moment,
she felt a pang of something within herself. What it was she could no longer
tell but, it struck her deeply. Pity perhaps? Or even...remorse? Ember shook it
off and smiled. "Time to move on." she said..

     "TIME FOR YOU AND YOUR FORCES TO DIE!!!"
     Ember swung around quickly..."Sailor Saturn!"
     "SIIIIILENCE....GLAAAAIVE......SURPRISE!!!!!!!!!"
     Ember shouted as the blast slammed into her. In the blink of an instant,
several of her forces were wiped out.
     Struggling in pain, Ember looked up. "Why...why bother? This world is
dead! YOU CAN'T SAVE IT!!!"
     "I would not be a Sailor Senshi if I didn't try to save the world of the
Silver Millenium!" Saturn took a step toward her. "I feel that you were once a
good person. Perhaps you can be again. Cast off this evil and join me to
defeat the enemy! You are not like them! I can feel your heart!"
     Ember winced at this. "You don't know me. You don't know what I am!"
     "I know you were not always like this." Saturn smiled. "I know you feel
great pain even now for what you have done." She put out her hand. "Come with
me..."
     Ember looked at the dead around her. She turned back to Saturn.
"Okay...let's do it then."
     She took Saturn's hand. Before Saturn realized what had happened, Ember
slammed her in the chest and took her Glaive from her. She threw it into the
rubble of a building. Quickly before Saturn could recover, she fired a burst of
dark energy into her. Saturn screamed and fell backward. Ember walked over and
grabbed her by her hair lifting her head up. "You don't know me at all! What
you feel is what I might have been! But now...with the power of Metallia, our
people will NEVER be subverted again!"
     "No..no one wants to...subvert you." Saturn whispered in pain. "We...we
just want to be friends."
     "LIAR!" Ember slammed Saturn again. The Senshi cried out and collapsed.
     Ember dropped her still form. "It is done. Now to join with Vindalla and
the others...."

     Ember flew upward. Gathering the remainder of her forces, she led them
toward the inner worlds to complete the Imperium's destruction....

          
     
                  Chapter Twenty Two: Mara's Last Gasp!


     Sel Glocken gasped as the defense monitors lit up screaming!! "ALERT!!" he
shouted. "ALERT!!! WE'RE UNDER ATTACK!!"

     Kov Delse rushed into the room. "What kind of force?"
     "Some sort of dark energy. Not sure how bad. There appear to be hundreds
of them."
     "Life forms?" Kov asked.
     Sel nodded. "Yes...and they're approaching our defense perimeters. I guess
word of some sort of attack going on in the outer planets is true."
     "DAMN EARTH!" Kov swore. "This is their doing. Where is Sailor Mara?"
     "She went to one of the outer worlds. Not sure which."
     Kov nodded. "Notify his Majesty and scramble all military forces. We're
not going to end up like Chronos!"
     "But that was an accident!" Sel stared at him.
     "With all this...do you truly believe that?" Kov glanced up at the
monitor. "Here they come!"



     Duke Kinches smiled as his warriors descended within their dark energy
protection. Outside it, the vacuum of space awaited. He surveyed the world of
Mara below. "Perhaps I should destroy it in one blast. But...it will be
interesting to see how they fight."
     Sorcerror Telchin flew over. "Our forces are deployed. Ready to begin the
attack."
     "Proceed." Kinches voice was filled with ice as he watched the dark forces
descend. "Kill everyone. Don't leave a single survivor."
     "And if Sailor Mara interferes?" Telchin grinned.
     "I will deal with her myself...go."
     Telchin saluted and flew downward. Kinches watched as his forces began
hammering the cities below...watched as men died. Watched as women trying to
protect their children burned in the fire. Somewhere deep within him, something
cried out. His black heart slammed it back into his subconscious. "Metallia's
will is all." he smiled.
     Kinches descended as the destruction continued. He laughed as rockets and
bombs exploded off his energy shield. He revered in the fact the pitiful
defenses of the remaining inner defense world were nothing. His forces were
destroying all. Below he could see several men running. Smiling, he waved his
hand and a shockwave blew them to oblivion. His eyes turned on the capital city
in flames and ruin. No doubt the King would be there....

     As Kinches landed he began to enter what was left of the Palace. Guards
fought with his people around him. He ignored it as if in a detached state of
mind. Their worthless lives were nothing. He would kill the King of this world
before destroying it...just as Metallia directed. He took a step forward
feeling the death and destruction in the air....
     Suddenly, there was a flash!! Kinches swore and dove clear as an
explosion blew the top of the wall near him clean off! He could hear footsteps
behind him. Without turning he smiled. "You men...stay clear from her. She's
mine!"

     Kinches turned and met the deadly eyes of Sailor Mara. Her hair was
blowing in the wind. Her face was covered with soot and, her Sailor Fuku was
torn. "KINCHES!!!!!" she shouted.
     Kinches nodded. "So...at last we meet in battle."
     Mara shifted slightly watching him. "You were our friend! You showed the
Princess and Prince Endymion love! YOU BROUGHT THEM TOGETHER!!!!"
     "And I shall destroy them..if Metallia doesn't beat me to it." He grinned
wickedly.
     Mara raised her arms..."ATOOOOOOOMIC....SHOCKWAVE....."
     Kinches eyes glowed and he fired a blast that blew her backward. "The
trouble with your attack is, you have to power up for it. I just launch mine. I
think you'd better step aside or you'll get hurt."
     "DAMN YOU!!!" Mara stood up and launched herself at him. The two met and,
Kinches pulled his sword...
     "Your attacks are useless." he said calmly. His dark energy consumed him
now. "And..I'm going to kill you...before I turn your world into another
asteroid field..."
     Mara screamed losing all reason. It had built inside her..the death of
Sailor Chronos..the destruction of her world...the death of the outer
worlds..and now her own. NO! She would not let him win!!!!
     Kinches moved quickly as she passed. "Your not fast enough for..."
     "SLEEEEEP TRANCE.....EXECUTE!!!!!!" she shouted!
     Kinches caught off guard tried to duck but was hit full force by her
attack. He cried out and fell to his knees. The dark energy inside him fought
with it. Deep inside, a part of himself awakened. A part that Metallia thought
had died. He stared up at Mara as she glared down at him...."Help...me.."

     "I'll kill you!!" Mara screamed and slammed him across the head. Duke
Kinches fell back, the blood streaming from his head. Mara advanced like an
insane woman. She kicked him hard using physical violence rather then her
attack. 
     "ALYSSA!!!" she screamed as she slammed him again. "CHRONOS!!! URANUS!!!
SATURN!!!!...YOUR GOING TO PAY FOR IT ALL!!!!!!"

     Kinches screamed as she swung his sword down on him, barely escaping the
blade as it fell. Mara turned quickly to kill him.....

     A blast from the sky blew her backwards. Sorcerror Telchin flew in and
grabbed Duke Kinches. He fired another blast at Mara as she reeled from the
attack..
     "You were foolish." Telchin smiled. "You let her get the best of you."
     "Don't..kill her." Kinches whispered.
     "What?" Telchin looked quickly, surprised by this. "She was going to kill
you!"
     "This is...wrong." Kinches whispered. "All of it."
     "Fool." Telchin laughed. "Metallia's plan is all. You're just weak from her
attack."
     Kinches felt something inside himself. A thought somewhere echoed in his
mind...*You're not evil. Not fully. You can fight it. TRY!*
     *Who...who is this?* he sent back.
     *I'm you. But...a part of you that you sealed away...before Metallia fully
took you over. Because of Mara's attack, we have a chance now. Order your
forces to stop the attack.*
     *I can't do that!* he sent back to the good part of himself. *Why should
I? We're about to destroy the Silver Millenium!*
     Telchin laughed as explosions sounded blowing up around Sailor Mara. She
screamed and dove for cover. "Look at her. It doesn't matter if you failed to
kill her. Soon, the whole planet will be destroyed by our dark energy field!"
     *Stop this.* the voice whispered. *There's still time. You alone can end
this. Trust Queen Serenity. Go to her.*
     *Yes." his dark self nodded inwardly. *I see now.* He looked up at
Telchin. "This world is finished. Recall our forces at once."
     "But they haven't destroyed the crucial areas..."
     "I SAID RECALL!" Kinches shouted. "RETURN TO LUMERIA!!!"
     Telchin glared at him. "You're violating orders! Metallia won't be happy
about this."
     "RECALL THEM! NOW!!!!"
     Telchin swore. He turned to a lesser officer. "Recall all forces. Prepare
to destroy the planet!"
     "NOOOO!" Kinches shouted.
     Telchin turned and stared at him. "Kinches...what...are you doing?"
     "I've changed the plan. This world needs to be salvaged. We can gain from
it."
     Telchin glared. "I don't think so. You're a traitor...DIE!!!!!
     Kinches barely ducked as the blast nearly consumed him. He fled downward
to the planet into the destroyed city. All around him was the roar of
destruction as the planet began suffering from the dark energy wave.
Earthquakes were tearing the world apart. What few survivors there were
screamed in terror as their once beautiful world collapsed.... 
    
     Kinches walked into a destroyed defense building. The two bodies
inside showed they had died at their posts. He grit his teeth and wept.

     "You have destroyed my world. But, before I die...I'm taking you with
me."
     Startled, Kinches turned to stare into the bleeding face of Sailor
Mara. Her goggles were shattered revealing her brown eyes. They glittered
angrily.
     "Please...I know this is wrong now." Kinches whispered. "We have to
escape."
     "You know this is wrong?" Mara glared at him. "Just when did you
figure that out! I'll let you decide that while I end your life!"
     "If you end it...you'll never know the truth. We can still win this.
This dark evil that Vindalla released...this Metallia...we can beat it."
     "I'll never trust you." Mara aimed her staff at him..."Prepare to meet
whatever dark devil you worship!!!!"

     Kinches watched as her red atom symbol on the
 top of the staff glowed with energy. The energy of revenge....

     Duke Kinches stood with his head bowed waiting for the killing blow that
would end his existence. The staff glowed with power as Sailor Mara grit
her teeth.
     "I hate you!..I hate you...but..." she lowered the staff her voice
breaking. "But...something is different about you, Kinches. I can feel it. How
could you do such horrifying things yet suddenly seem to have reformed?"
     "Metallia's dark energy..is being overcome by my good side. By my love for
my people. This is all a mistake. A horrible mistake!" Kinches looked up. He
could see the tears falling from her eyes. "We can turn this around. But, we
must act now! We're too late to save the outer worlds. The inner worlds are at
this moment under attack! The Moon Capital will follow! We must stop them!"
     Mara nodded. "We have no way off this planet. They've destroyed the
trans-platforms and, I can't do a Sailor teleport without the others."
     "Do one with me!" Kinches moved forward.
     Mara stepped back hesitating. "I still don't trust you!"
     "YOU DON'T HAVE A CHOICE!" Kinches shouted. "As we speak, my forces are
destroying this planet. Telchin won't hold back! He'll blow this place to
atoms! We have to leave..NOW!!!"
     "You don't have the power to do a teleport!" Mara wiped her tears. "There
isn't enough range!"
     "I have enough dark energy in me to do a short range one. We could make it
to the closest planet...and fight to save it!"
     "Mars." Mara whispered.
     "Yes, Mars. We can't do anything to save the Moon Capital or the other
worlds. And your world is gone. Let's do what we can to save Mars!"
     "But, I don't know if your dark energy is compatible with my own. Instead
of teleporting, we could end up someplace else!"
     "WE HAVE TO TRY!" Kinches shouted. "This part of myself you are speaking
to now is very strong willed. But, I can't hold off the dark energy forever. If
they catch me, I will be overcome again. I need to find a way to get to Queen
Serenity. She's the only one that can help me before I fall under Metallia's
influence again. This world is dying around us! Join with me..NOW!!"
     Mara looked past him out the window at the city in flames. The earth
trembled around her and, the ceiling began to crack.
     "NOW!!" Kinches shouted.
     Mara swore and took his hands. "This has never been done! Theoretically,
it's not possible to do a teleport with only two people. Also, there's no
reason to believe the two energys won't counter each other."
     "No choice." Kinches smiled. "You're a scientist..and a Senshi. Trust me.
You can feel my heart. But, that goodness within me won't last if I don't get
help soon."
     Mara nodded. "Concentrate then..."
     As the two locked hands and closed their eyes, explosions went off as
steam and gas escaped from the core of the planet. The earthquake became more
violent and the holo-monitor ball crashed to the floor.
     Their minds merged as one...seeing each other's thoughts. Mara in a brief
instant saw the part of Kinches that had been trapped..and was now emerging..as
it tried to warn Prince Endymion through his subconscious of what was to come.
She saw his mind fighting the darkness. "I'll help you." she whispered.
     Kinches opened his mind more..."Together then..."

     Both of them focused their minds on the planet Mars...

     "SAILOR......" Mara shouted.

     "TELEPORT!!!!!" Kinches echoed.
     The two gasped as their energys..light and dark merged! The explosion of
power consumed them and, the walls crashed inward bringing down the ceiling as
the two disappeared...

     Out in space Sorcerror Telchin grinned as the world of Mara turned bright
red..as if trying to breathe it's last gasp. He laughed. "The last of the inner
defense planets. Join with your sister world.."
     Planet Mara began to explode outward then, like some gigantic bomb that
consumed it, the entire outer shell cracked and the core exploded!!! What was
left of the atmosphere mixed with other gases to expand into a huge fireball
that threw particles in all directions.... 



                     Chapter Twenty Three: Betrayal!

     "That's strange." Artemis frowned as he moved his paw across the
holo-monitor. The ball hung in the air but, no power came from it. "I can't
access the outer worlds. There must be a link down someplace."
     Luna nodded. "Well, we need to fix it. Queen Serenity wants to know when
or if there is going to be a problem with Earth. If that happens, we'll need to
unite as one force."
     "What are you two doing?" a voice said.
     Artemis turned and saw Minister Devol behind him. "We were trying to
ascertain why the link with the outer planets is currently down. Is there a
communication problem someplace?"
     "I'm having things realigned. We're trying to readjust our systems so
there's no chance of Lumeria unscrambling them. It's a security measure that
will take a little time."
     "But..aren't we vulnerable to attack if we can't communicate with the
outer worlds?" Luna's eyes showed her concern.
     Devol smiled. "Yes...but there's no worry. I want you two to return to
Queen Serenity. The systems are down and they won't be up until I give the
order to turn them on, or Alcon does."
     Artemis looked away. This was not good. Devol was leaving them open with
no defenses..no way of contacting anyone. He turned back to the holo-ball and
waved his paw across it. "I'm not getting any link to the inner worlds either!"
     Devol smiled. "Again..a security measure."
     "How can security have anything to do with that?" Luna challenged him.
"Devol, what is going on?"
     "I want you two out of here now." Devol's voice was like ice.
     Artemis looked quickly at Luna and, the two left the room.
     As they walked away, Luna sent Artemis a message...*He's not himself! We
need to access the other worlds!*
     *I know.* Artemis sighed. *There's another defense monitoring station that
is little used. Older equipment. But, it will enable us to determine why all
communications have been cut! I'm getting a horrifying feeling...*


     Explosions made King Mosel turn quickly as the first wave of the dark
energy attack slammed into Mercury. Outside, the ground exploded with fury as
people inside the castle screamed...
     Two men came running quickly. "Your majesty...we can't access the other
Imperium worlds."
     "What do you mean?" Mosel said in horror. "WE HAVE TO!!"
     "All communications links are cut!"
     "But, they're a synchronized system!" Mosel swore. "Get me King Holar on
Mars!"
     "No link established! We can't contact the Moon either! That would
indicate the central link on the Moon was cut off!"
     A sound like a bomb reverberated throughout the room. People shouted in
fear. Mosel grit his teeth. "No defenses..no way to call for help! Is our
military holding out?"
     "Our military is unable to hold them off! We have no way to contact the
Sailor Senshi..or anyone!" 
     Mosel nodded. "Either the Moon has fallen..or someone has cut the links
deliberately. Either way...we're finished!"
     King Mosel watched as the dark energy closed in more. "Ami..." he
whispered thinking of his daughter..."stay well...."

     Planet Venus looked like a living hell as it's atmosphere began to fade.
King Sora gasped for air as the last of his forces were destroyed. The capital
city was falling into ruin. He could see dark shapes killing people through his
window. For hours he had tried to get help. Now...it was too late. Somehow, the
comm link with the Moon Capital and the other worlds was gone. And, this
surprise attack...was Venus end....

     
     "FIRE!!!!" King Holar shouted!
     The energy cannons slammed into the dark field as it advanced. King Holar
swore angrily. "ANY EFFECT?""
     "Nothing, your Majesty!" his lead officer answered. "Our weapons are
useless!"
     "Did you get through to the Moon Capital?" Holar winced as another dark
energy blast cracked part of a wall near him. His castle was gone. He and the
survivors had retreated into an old section of the city. His wife Queen Tirsi
was dead...killed in the first wave of the surprise attack..
     "No way to get through." the man bowed his head. "We have no
communications at all."
     "Jammed?" Holar shouted as he fired a hand laser at a dark shape that flew
toward him.
     "NO..just...not there!"
     Holar watched as the dark form came closer...she was female..and her eyes
glowed with fury.....


     Artemis and Luna ran quickly through the castle to an old section of it.
Looking quickly to make sure they weren't being followed, they entered a room
at the end of the corridor. "This equipment is not as advanced as our regular
systems." Atemis whispered. "But, with it, we can hopefully determine what is
going on."
     Luna watched as he accessed the power grid. "Good job, Artemis." she
smiled.
     "Now, if we can just figure out.." his eyes grew wide. "This...this is
impossible!"
     "What?" Luna moved forward.
     "The link to the systems was shut off here! Someone deliberately
terminated all access codes used by the automated systems. And, the way it's
done, it would have to be someone with advanced access!"
     Luna stared at him. "DEVOL!"
     "Or Alcon." Artemis swore. "Perhaps both. Let's see what's going on!!!"
     Artemis worked quickly to restablish the cut link. As each Imperium planet
came on....they watched in terror as dark energy consumed all..
     Artemis blinked through his tears. "I...I can't get any link with planet
Mara! It's NOT THERE!!!!"
     Luna cried and pushed herself against him. "COME ON!! We have to get out
of here! We have to warn the others!!!! Queen Serenity must know...our Imperium
is being destroyed!!"
     The two turned and moved quickly down the corridor...hoping there was
still time left...to save anything!

     Merlyn cried out as he and Arianrod linked together, tried to draw upon
their power. Suddenly, like a tidal wave of force, they gasped as their prison
shattered! The dark energy faded away that had held them.
     Arianrod crawled over. "We...we have to..let our people know.."
     "We need to warn the Moon Capital first!" Merlyn sat up. "But, it may
already be too late. We'll take a few moments to get our strength and teleport
there. When I see this Lord Onyx again...I'll make him wish he'd never heard of
the Tuatha de Danaan!"


     Out in space, Queen Beryl smiled as her forces moved closer to the
Moon. Behind her, the dark energy known as Metallia laughed.
     "SOON....THERE SHALL BE NO MORE SILVER MILLENIUM...SOON...THE DARK
KINGDOM SHALL RULE ALL!!!!"

          Beryl's eyes glowed. "Vindalla's forces have subverted the outer
worlds. Kandow, Telchin, and Kinches are destroying the inner. There is
nothing left to oppose us! ALL FORCES!!! PREPARE TO ATTACK!!!!!"

     The Four Kings..Kunzite, Nephrite, Zoisite, and Jedeite smiled. They
raised their swords and saluted Queen Beryl.
     "For the glory of the Dark Kindom!" Kunzite shouted.
     "DEATH TO THE SILVER MILLENIUM!" Zoisite laughed.
     "We shall crush them!" Nephrite grinned.
     "Our Darkness shall encompass all!" Jedeite bowed to Beryl.

     For a moment, there was silence in the blackness of space. Metallia's
glow filled them with dark energy.

     "GO THEN!" her evil voice answered. "LET NONE OPPOSE YOU! BRING ME
QUEEN SERENITY'S CRYSTAL!!!!!.....


     Queen Serenity turned and ran as she heard the first wave hit! Explosions
sounded outside making people run for cover as the huge majestic columns that
supported the main part of the Castle came crashing down. A voice laughed
making her turn..."Alcon...?"

     Alcon smiled. "So..it's come. And, our world is doomed now."
     "Alcon..what?" The Queen winced as another explosion reverberated off the
walls. "You..you knew this was coming?"
     "I knew." Alcon smiled. "You see Queen Serenity..it was my doing. I was
instructed to do this."
     Serenity's face lost all color. "Who is controlling you? WHAT IS GOING
ON!!"
     Another voice answered. "A power greater than your own...Queen Serenity."
     Serenity turned and stared as Devol stood behind her. In his hand he held
a rod. "I'm sorry. Please give me the Silver Crystal."
     "Devol....not...you..too?" The Queen's tears fell fully now. "Who is doing
this?"

     "They're good puppets..aren't they?"
     The Queen swung around to her left and saw a man in a dark robe smiling.
Dark holes were in place where his eyes used to be. "Onyx." she whispered.
     "Actually...Lord Onyx..or should I say..Emperor Onyx."
     Alcon moved forward. "What should we do with her?"
     Onyx grinned. "After we have the Crystal...I don't care what you do with
her. Fulfill your wildest fantasies if you wish. With the Crystal, I can go
against Metallia. I can seize control of her forces and control everything. My
plans that were of a minor nature I had in mind for Beryl, I will simply expand
to a universal level."
     "Metallia..the evil attacking us now?" The Queen's voice shook with fear.
     "Yes...but..right now...you need to fear me." Onyx smiled as a field
surrounded the Queen. "Now then...surrender the Crystal!!!"

     Artemis and Luna ran with all speed toward the Main Hall. As they did so,
they shouted their warning..."THE EARTHLINGS ARE ATTACKING!! THE EARTHLINGS ARE
ATTACKING!!!! EVERYONE...ASSUME DEFENSIVE POSITIONS!!!! GET READY TO FIGHT!!!!"

     Outside in the central courtyard, Sailor Neptune looked up as a darkness
more terrible then anything she had beheld filled the Lunar sky. "What...is
that?" she whispered.
     Suddenly a blast almost knocked her off her feet as thousands of warriors
began descending from the sky. As she looked up, one flew down toward her. He
was more heavily armored then most. His eyes glowed with a deadly purple fire.
     Neptune readied herself. In the distance, she could hear screams as the
wave hit. She waited for the Moon's defenses to come into play but, no energy
cannons fired. She looked as the man floated over her...
     "Hello....Sailor Neptune." He smiled wickedly.
     "WHO ARE YOU??" Neptune shouted.
     "I am called...Lord Kandow. I am a warrior of the Fedkel Umi..and I serve
the Dark Kingdom. You shall die now..."
     "THINK SO??" Neptune shouted. She raised her hands and a ball of light
appeared that coalesced into a blue sphere. Behind her, a huge tidal wave of
energy appeared....
     "DEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP.......SUBMEEEEEEEEERGEEEE!!!!!!"

     The wave of blue energy flew over her head straight at Kandow. She watched
in terror as it slammed into him and blew apart. Kandow nodded as the energy
faded. "Is that the best you can do? Fool. If this is what you Sailor Senshi
have to defend with..this will be a very short battle."
     Neptune swore as his blast sent her falling to her knees.....


     Prince Endymion hugged Princess Serenity tight as the explosions sounded
outside. He smiled at her. "I have to go. I need to defend your world from this
terror. We'll beat them!"
     Serenity held him tight. "Don't leave me, Endymion. Please. I don't know
what's happening but, we need to stay together. I don't want to lose you."
     "Serenity.." Endymion kissed her on the forehead. "I've lost all my
people..and my country. I won't lose you too. I'll be back. I promise. Please
understand." He held her one last time then dove over the wall and ran into the
city....

     Queen Serenity screamed as the wave of energy ripped through her. Lord
Onyx smiled. He turned to Alcon and Devol who's bodies were now surrounded by a
dark energy. "Take the Crystal from her."
     The two advanced. Queen Serenity grit her teeth fighting the field. Just
as Devol reached her, she shouted and the field collapsed blowing him backward.
Devol screamed and slammed against the wall, shattering his backbone. He cried
out and collapsed.
     Onyx nodded. "Very impressive, Your Majesty. But...I will have what I have
come for."
     Queen Serenity now surrounded by silver light turned to him. "You are an
agent of darkness. I sense your heart was dark before this happened. Before
this Metallia appeared. You've made two of my closest friends betray me! I
won't forgive it!"
     Onyx laughed. "Am I supposed to fear that, Queen of Light? We shall see
which is the stronger. DIE!!!!" Onyx fired a blast of dark energy at the
Queen. She raised her hands and blew back the dark wave. The two opposing
forces lit the room as the walls cracked from the strain of the awesome power
present. 
     Alcon came from behind. He slammed into Queen Serenity's back screaming as
the energy tore through him. Caught off guard, the Queen gasped and fell
forward......

     In space, the dark form that was Metallia smiled inwardly. "FOOL! BETRAY
ME WILL YOU? SEEK THE CRYSTAL OF LIGHT FOR YOURSELF? YOU SHALL KNOW DEATH
SOON!"
     Beryl looked up. "Your Majesty?"
     "YOUR FORMER ADVISOR...LORD ONYX...SEEKS TO UNDERMINE OUR PLANS. HE HAS
DESIGNS OF HIS OWN. HE IS CURRENTLY TRYING TO DESTROY THE WHITE MOON QUEEN. LET
HIM WEAR DOWN HIS DEFENSES..THEN I SHALL FINISH HIM! I WILL NOT TOLERATE
TRAITORS!!!"

     Beryl smiled. "He is a fool. But soon...he shall know the darkness."

     
     Sailor Mars gasped as the dark energy field descended filled with
thousands of warriors. "Oh my..."
     "BLAST THEM!" Sailor Jupiter shouted! She swung her arms apart...
     "SUUUUUUUUUPREEEEEEEMMEEEEE.......THUNDERRRRR!!!!!!"
     The lightning blast ripped through the energy forces as they reached the
lunar surface....
     Sailor Venus grit her teeth and pointed her finger, her tressess blowing
wildly in the wind from Jupiter's attack. "CRESCEEEEEENT....BEEEAAAAAM!!!!!"
     Her attacked slammed into the lead forces as they advanced.
     Sailor Mercury jumped up on the top of the huge golden gate that was the
entrance to Queen Serenity's castle. "BUUUUUBBLE......SPRAAAAAY!!!!!"
     A massive fog erupted filling the landscape. Mercury activated her visor
trying to determine the strength of their enemy. "I calculate there are
approximately over fifty thousand I can see..."
     "FIFTY THOUSAND??" Venus shouted in fear...

     Sailor Mars swung her arms around..."FIIIIIIIRE...." she aimed at the
attackers as they charged...."SOOOOOOUL......"

     The blast ripped forth. As with Jupiter's attack, many of the enemy fell
but, they continued to advance. Then, a bolt of darkness flew toward her! Mars
screamed and tried to dive for cover but, it was coming too fast!!!
     Just as the bolt was about to hit, a wave of silvery energy suddenly
appeared! The blast slammed into it and, it merged into a form. The form
became a man and, beside him was a silver fox!
     Merlyn reached his hand down to her. "Looks like you need some
help...Firebird."


                          Chapter Twenty Four:
                          Battle of The Golden Gate!

     Lord Onyx laughed wickedly as his dark energy tore into Queen Serenity.
The Queen cried out and struggled to fend off the evil onslaught. Onyx nodded
to Alcon. "Take the Crystal..NOW!!!"
     Alcon moved forward then suddenly stopped. He grit his teeth as if
fighting something. "No.." he whispered.
     "What did you say?" Onyx's voice was low and dangerous..as if he was
waiting for an excuse to attack.
     "I SAID NO!!" Alcon dove at Onyx. Onyx flew backwards firing at Alcon and
burning a hole in his chest! In that instant, Queen Serenity focused her power
and blew the dark warrior backwards. The shock of the explosion ripped a hole
in the wall and, the arch of the window near it collapsed. Onyx gasped and flew
out into the darkness...
     Queen Serenity ran to Alcon who lay bleeding on the floor. His eyes looked
up at her filling with tears. "My Queen..." he whispered. "I've betrayed you.
I've ruined the Silver Millenium."
     "It's not your fault." the Queen whispered. She bent down and stroked his
brow. "You're my friend. This isn't your fault. Nor is it Devol's." She looked
over at the dead former Defense Minister.
     The Queen looked out at the darkness. She could hear the explosions and
the screams of agony. She could see the fire spreading through the castle and
it's golden dome cracked and leaning dangerously. The once magnificent columns
of water that had flowed in the courtyard were shattered in ruins.
     Queen Serenity bent down and kissed Alcon on the forehead. "You rest...my
friend. I have work to do." The Queen stood and walked slowly out of the room.
Alcon watched her go then choked and slowly watched the dim light fade away...

     Sailor Neptune leaped clear as Sorcerror Kandow fired another dark bolt of
energy. It tore through the lunar surface ripping a huge rut as if a bomb had
hit. Neptune swore and stood up.
     Kandow grinned. "What's wrong? Are you done fighting?"
     "NEVER!!!" Neptune shouted and ran toward him. She swung her arms
upwards...
     "DEEEEEEEEEEEEEP..........SUUUUUUUUUBMEEEEEEEEERGEEEEE!!

     The tidal wave of watery energy slammed into Kandow. When it faded, he
stood there laughing. Neptune's face went pale as he then turned serious.
"Time to end this..you're not a fit opponent for anyone in the Dark Kingdom. And
certainly not for myself!"
     Neptune shouted and Kandow flew down to meet her! The two crashed together
trying to strangle each other. Neptune gasped as he grabbed her head and
slammed it into the side of a building. Blood came forth staining her aqua
green hair as it mixed with the lunar soil. She looked at him with a defiant
eye! "Come on then...KILL ME IF YOU CAN!!!!"
     With new strength, Neptune screamed and tore into Kandow with a new
vengeance. Surprised by this, he gave ground trying to defend himself against a
series of combination blows and watery attacks...as Neptune drove him backward
toward the fiery city....

     Sailor Mars looked up watching with awe as Merlyn smiled at her. She took
his hand. "Where..where did you come from?"
     "We didn't come soon enough!" Arianrod cut in. "And, we all have to work
together if we have any hope of saving your Millenium!"
     Sailor Mercury leaped down from the golden gate and ran over. "They're
massing for a strike. A combination of ground and air."
     "You handle the ground." Merlyn winked at Mars. "We'll handle the air!
COME ON ARIANROD!!!" He flew upward with the silver fox close behind.
     Sailor Jupiter ran over. "Wasn't that the Tuathan ambassador?"
     Mars nodded. "Yes...it was."
     Jupiter grinned. "He likes you...doesn't he?"
     Mars saw the others looking at her. Her face turned red. "Look...we don't
have time for this. Let's get them!"
     Sailor Venus stepped forward. "Okay...form a ring! Mercury, what can you
see?"
     "Several thousand coming at us from all sides. Unless we strike at the
heart of their numbers, we don't have a chance!"
     Sailor Jupiter grinned. "Let's strike then! Venus, you give the command
when to fire!"
     Sailor Venus realizing they had just put her in charge swallowed
nervously. She nodded grimly. "Okay...Mercury..give me a continued report."
     Mercury scanned the enemy. "Air attack coming in! I can see Merlyn and
Arianrod prparing to meet it....."

     Merlyn flew overhead watching as the massive darkness closed in. "Dammit!
He swore several welsh obscenities and turned to Arianrod. "These devils aren't
playing around! We're going to have to hit them with everything we got!"
     Arianrod nodded. "Understood." She focused her eyes downward. "The Sailor
Senshi are about to be hit. Ground assault at 500 meters to the left!"
     "They can handle it." Merlyn growled. "Let's take out these others!"
     Arianrod's eyes focused on the approaching force. "Someone important is in
command...I can see his uniform. It's....Kunzite!"
     "Former General...now dark lackey." Merlyn grinned. "Let's nail him!!"
     The two flew upward then angled down firing a series of silver energy
bolts directly at the dark force. The energy crackled as silver and black mixed
together to light the night sky.
     King Kunzite looked upward, his eyes glowing. "So...now the Tuathan de
Daanan seek to interfere. We'll crush them easily! ATTACK!!!!"
     He flew upward with several hundred warriors behind him. Merlyn and
Arianrod met him halfway, their determination to save the Millenium in full
force. Merlyn shouted and aimed a narrow silver beam down the middle splitting
the dark forces in half. Kunzite swore and fired back....

     "FIIIIIIIIRE......SOOOOUUUULL!!!!!"
     Sailor Mars shouted as her attack launched. The explosive energy joined
with Sailor Jupiter's and, the combination of fire and lightning ripped through
the advancing forces.
     "THEY'RE STILL TOO POWERFUL!" Mercury shouted.
     Sailor Venus looked upward. "That darkness! It's the dark energy! Ignore
them and fire upward!! SPLIT THAT ENERGY MASS!!!!"

     All the inner Senshi concentrated drawing on their power. Sailor Venus
found herself wishing for Sailor Uranus or Sailor Mara. Someone with more
experience then herself. She concentrated looking for a weakness. "AIM FOR THE
CENTER!!! FIRE!!!!!!!!!!"

     CREEEEEESCENNNT....BEEEEEEEEAMM!!!!!"
     FIIIIIIIIRE......SOUL!!!!!
     SUUUUUUPREEEEEEEMEE....THUUUUUUUNDERRRRR!!!!
     BUUUUUUUBBLLLLLEE.....SPRAAAAAAAYYY!!!!"

     The combined attack slammed into the darkness! For a moment, they all
smiled as it looked like the mass was separating. Then, the center parted to
reveal two huge red glowing eyes. The bottom part changed form to reveal a
large wide mouth with daggers for teeth...
     From the darkness a laugh so terrifying it shook them to their souls came
forth..."FOOLS!!! YOU CAN'T WIN!!! I AM.... DARK METALLIA!!!! MY DARK KINGDOM
HAS DESTROYED YOUR SILVER MILLENIUM!!! YOU WILL BOW BEFORE ME OR DIE!!!!"
     Sailor Venus looked at the others. The fear was in their faces. Sailor
Mars nodded. "We'd rather die!"
     As one, they attacked again, their voices as one firing energy of light
into the midnight blackness. 
     Metallia laughed. "THEN......DIEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!"
     All the inner Senshi screamed in terror as a pain such as they had never
before experienced ripped through them!.....

     Merlyn swore as he saw the energy absorb the Senshi. He tried to dive
downward to help but, as he flew over the gate, a dark energy bolt tore into
him! He gasped and crashed into the lunar soil ripping his cape to bits.
     "MERLYN!!!" Ariarod shouted. As she flew down, he watched as, before she
could reach him, a human woman appeared and grabbed onto Arianrod making her
howl in agony as dark energy surrounded her.
     Merlyn torn between helping Arianrod and saving Sailor Mars suddenly cried
out as another bolt slammed him. Turning, he wiped the blood from his mouth as
he saw a dark image in front of him....Lord Onyx.
     Onyx's hollow orbs observed him. "It's too bad you escaped. I could have
used you both in my plans."
     Merlyn felt the hate build within him. Centuries of dealing with magic and
the hurt of his people from numerous past experiences tore loose from his soul.
     He screamed and launched himself determined to destroy this demon from
hell.....
     
     Lord Onyx gasped as Merlyn slammed him backwards, the force from the
explosion shattering the stone wall behind him. 
     As Merlyn advanced, Onyx stood up in the rubble, his dark hollow orbs
where eyes should have been, glowing. "I see I shall have to stop playing
around and take you seriously, Tuathan fool."
     Merlyn glanced quickly at Sailor Mars and the other Senshi struggling in
the dark energy field. He swore. "I'll kill you soon!" He flew upward and fired
several silver energy bolts trying to disrupt the field.
     Onyx laughed. "Fool. I see your weak point. It will be a pleasure to
exploit it!" He laughed and fired a full barrage of snake-like energy into
Merlyn's back.
     Merlyn shouted in pain as the energy struck him! He gasped and fell down
struggling within it...

     "MERLYN!!!" Arianrod shouted. She swore and slammed her opponent Topazite
who held her pinned from behind. The woman Topazite spun clear of the silver
fox's sharp teeth barely in time. She looked upward at the dark shadow that was
Metallia which dominated the sky.
     "GREAT METALLIA!" she shouted. "GIVE US POWER TO DESTROY THEM!!"
     Merlyn climbed off the ground from the impact of Lord Onyx's attack. His
eyes focused on the dark warrior. "I may die..but you're going with me!!" Merlyn
launched himself at Onyx with renewed force and, the two flew backward from the
impact shattering the right half of the gate. Like ancient titans they ripped
into each other using physical and energy based attacks. Onyx's orbs glowed
with dark energy as the hatred grew.
     "YOU'LL TAKE ME?? I THINK NOT TUATHAN FOOL!!!!!" He fired energy into
Merlyn's chest causing the Tuathan ambassador to cry out and fall back.
     Onyx turned to Topazite who hung in the air like some great bat. "Is the
attack underway against the Tuathan de Danaan as I ordered?"
     "We have made little headway." Topazite replied. "They are very powerful.
They appear to be merging into another dimension."
     "Damn!" Onyx slammed Merlyn again as he tried to get up. "Your life ends
here Merlyn! You and Arianrod will not return to your people! And, we will rule
all!!!!"
     Merlyn forced himself up ignoring the pain from the attack.
"You...won't...do...anything..." he gasped out. "I'm going to destroy all of
you! DIIIIIEEEEE!!!"
     With his last strength, Merlyn screamed and fired the silver energy web
from his hands. The web flew apart and encompassed Onyx who shouted in agony
from the surprise attack!
     Merlyn feeling new strength straightened his weakened body more. He turned
to help the beleagured Sailor Senshi. The next thing he knew..he was on his
face...a great pain ripping into him!
     King Kunzite hung in the air over him. "You turned your back on me...a
foolish thing to do. You should have finished our battle first!"
     
     "HOLD KUNZITE!"
     Kunzite who was prepared to kill Merlyn looked up. "Queen Beryl?"
     Queen Beryl smiled. "Our Empress the great Metallia has something better
in mind...."

     The Sailor Senshi swore as they struggled against the energy field that
surrounded them. Sailor Mercury looked up. "The...Tuathan ambassador..is in
trouble.." she gasped fighting the pain..
     Sailor Mars turned and watched Merlyn struggling. "Oh god..he..he did
this...for me! NOOOOOO!" Mars aimed her fingers together, a huge flame
forming...."FIIIIIIIIIIIIIRE..........SOOOOOOOOOOOUUUUUULLLL!!!!!!!!"
     The flame flew from her fingertips and blew the field apart holding them!
The other Senshi collapsed released from the field. Mars herself fell forward
trying to regain strength...
     Sailor Jupiter looked up. "Damn! We didn't even come close to hurting that
evil shadow!"

     Lord Onyx smiled and looked up. "Yes Great Metallia...exact your vengeance
on these fools. Send the Tuathan de Danaan into the darkness!"

     The dark shadow that was Metallia looked down at Queen Beryl. It's eyes
glowed. "FINISH THEM...SEND THEM TO THE DARKNESS!!!"
     Beryl grinned wickedly revelling in her new dark power. "Yes My Empress."
She suddenly turned to Lord Onyx.."YOU FIRST....TRAITOR!!!!"
     Lord Onyx stepped back. "Queen Beryl? What..what are you.."
     "YOU TRIED TO TAKE THE QUEEN OF LIGHT'S CRYSTAL FOR YOURSELF!" Metallia's
evil voice boomed. "BEFORE I TOOK CONTROL, YOU HAD PLANS TO USURP BERYL AND
CONTROL HER REALM YOURSELF. NOW...YOU SEEK TO GO AGAINST ME? FOOL! FEEL MY
POWER...AND LIVE IN ETERNAL DAMNATION WITH YOUR ENEMIES!!!!"
     Beryl smiled and fired a wide field that surrounded Onyx!! As he shouted,
it expanded to capture Merlyn, Arianrod, and Topazite! Others in the area
fighting screamed as it took them too...
     The field flew upward. Metallia's dark laughter echoed..
     "LIVE FOREVER IN DARKNESS!!!!!!"
     Arianrod cried out in terror as a huge hole opened in the black sky. The
field condensed more into a ball glowed with black energy. Then, Beryl waved
her hand and watched as the ball flew upward toward the blackness....
     "NOOOOOOOO!" Onyx screamed.......
     The ball flew into the dark portal and it shut and faded from view..

     Sailor Mercury stepped back.."The..they're gone!!!"
     Sailor Mars stared in disbelief. "The..the Tuathan..what...where did they
go?"
     Queen Beryl laughed. "The same place we will soon send all of you, Sailor
Senshi! THIS IS THE END!!!!! PREPARE TO DIE!!!!!!"
     Beryl flew upward and nodded to her General Kings that hovered nearby. "I
shall let my warriors destroy you! I have a Queen to find and a Princess to
kill!"

     "NOOOOO!" Sailor Venus fired a crescent beam upward but, Beryl was gone.
The Sailor Senshi turned as one as the dark warriors floated downward toward
them. King Nephrite laughed.
     "Too late...there's nowhere to run!"
     The Sailor Senshi formed a circle back to back...prepared to fight to the
death!!!


                           Chapter Twenty Five:                           
                           Red Planet of Blood!

     King Holar screamed in agony as the Dark Kingdom warrior burned him with a
dark purple ball of flame. He dropped his sword and collapsed to his knees
sobbing. As he looked up at her, he saw her wicked smile and could see behind
her his once beautiful city in flames. Around him, what remained of the castle
was smoldering in ruins. Gritting his teeth ignoring the pain, he reached for
his sword and held it in defiance...
     Sorcerress Ember grinned. "Still fighting, Your Majesty? Good. I'd hate to
think you would be this easy...a King of one of the Silver Millenium's primary
worlds!"
     Holar braced himself as she raised her hands and the huge ball of energy
formed within them. He knew his death was near and, his thoughts turned to his
daughter Rei. He knew she too was probably now fighting...defending Queen
Serenity's court on the Moon Capital. As Ember swung her arms outward prepared
to launch the killing blow, Holar turned as he heard a sudden shout,
accompanied by a flash of light...
     
     "ATOOOOOOOOOOOOOMIIIIIIC....SHOOOOOOOOOOOOCKWAAAVE...INCIIIIIIIINERATEE!!"

     Ember screamed as the huge atom shaped energy blast ripped through her
forcing her to the martian soil. Holar quickly swung his sword downward and
stabbed the dark warrior in the back! Ember cried out and passed into
unconsciousness, her blood staining his sword.
     Holar looked up to see an impossible sight. Two warriors stood on the hill
to his right. Sailor Mara...her Sailor fuku torn, her face cut and, goggles
smashed. And...Duke Kinches!
     Holar glared at the dark warrior as he moved past him and gently pulled
the King's sword from Ember. "She's not truly evil, Your Majesty." he
whispered. "Like the rest of us, she too has been taken by Metallia's evil
influence."
     "Metallia?" Holar blinked. "What are you..?"
     "A dark evil that has destroyed Lumeria..and now your people. There might
still be time if we hurry to save what's left."
     Holar still looked defensively at Kinches. "How is it you aren't evil
then?"
     "I was." Kinches brushed Ember's hair back. "But, Sailor Mara saved me.
Her attack was able to free enough of my true self from the evil influence."
     "You did that yourself too." Mara answered as she joined them. "Your
Majesty, is there any way off this planet?"
     "No." Holar bowed his head. "There are no trans-platforms left and, I
doubt we can make it in time to save the Moon Capital." He winced as the ground
trembled. "Or this world for that matter. I can feel the atmosphere getting
thinner."
     An evil laugh filled the air. Holar glanced upward and swore. "One of your
friends is watching us, Kinches.."
     Duke Kinches looked upward and his eyes grew wide in fear. "Vindalla.."
     Vindalla laughed and nodded to two other warriors with her. "Kinches
dear..it appears you have been won over to the side of our enemies. Something I
will need to rectify."
     Kinches held up his sword. "Vindalla, please listen! This is all wrong!"
     "Metallia's will is all." Vindalla smiled. She waved her hand and a dark
energy field surrounded Duke Kinches. Sailor Mara grabbed King Holar and both
leaped clear as Kinches cried out and flew upward..
     "KINCHES!!" Mara shouted.
     Vindalla looked down at her. "Foolish Senshi. Like your friends who are
currently in agony, you too shall go down to defeat and death. I give you this
chance, Sailor Mara! JOIN US! JOIN US...OR SUFFER ETERNAL PAIN!!"
     Duke Kinches gasped as the evil began to consume him..."No..." he
whispered. "Please...Vindalla..I love you.."
     Vindalla smiled and entered the dark energy field with him. "And I love
you Kinches. Together...we'll serve Beryl and Metallia...and conquer the
universe!!"
     "NOOOOOO!" Kinches cried out.
     Vindalla hugged him close and kissed him deeply. As she did so, her dark
energy poured into him forcing what little remained of him to retreat to his
subconscious. The darkness polluted his very soul and, he cried out realizing
this time..there was no escape!

     Sailor Mara and King Holar watched helplessly as Kinches hung in the air
like a trapped puppet. Then, Vindalla broke the kiss and looked down at them.
     "Well, Sailor Mara...the Dark Kingdom awaits your answer. Will you choose
victory....or eternal damnation?"
     "Damnation." Mara whispered. She looked upward, her mind racing back.
     "Alyssa.." she whispered..."give me your strength!"

     Vindalla watched as Mara rose her staff in defiance. "TO SERVE METALLIA IS
ETERNAL DAMNATION! I CHOOSE DEATH! I WILL FIGHT YOU TO THE END! I AM SAILOR
MARA...A SAILOR SENSHI OF THE SILVER MILLENIUM!!!"
     "You mean a dead realm..and so shall you be.." Vindalla smiled wickedly.
She turned to the two warriors and one fired a blast of flame that consumed
King Holar. He cried out in terror as his body was turned to ashes...
     Mara taken by surprise gasped in horror as the King died. She turned
quickly to see Vindalla take Duke Kinches by the hand..

     "Kinches...my love....destroy her!!!!"
     Sailor Mara grit her teeth as her former ally turned to face her, his eyes
glowing with dark evil energy..

     "Sailor Mara..." his voice echoed through the dying air around her...

     "DIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!"

     Mara screamed as the blast of dark energy ripped through her...
     The pain was more intense then Mara had ever felt. Her limbs lost strength
and she collapsed from her own weight into the dust of the destroyed city. Her
mind closed in on itself feeling the desperate need to detach itself from her
searing nerve endings that were sending waves of pain through her burning body.
     *Help me Alyssa!" she cried inwardly. *Please help me!!! Is this what you
felt when you were alone..against whatever it was that destroyed your world?
Are we to die and never see each other again??? Oh please don't let this be
true! Let me awaken from this evil nightmare. Let things be the way they were!*
     *Darla...you're not alone.*
     Sailor Mara turned her head and saw through the energy onslaught that was
ripping her apart a phantom form. Her eyes tried to focus..."Alyssa.." she
whispered.. "Alyssa..help me.."
     The phantom smiled and, she saw it was Sailor Chronos. *Remember what you
taught me?* Chronos replied. *It's a Senshi's duty to fight till the end. Never
give up! You taught me that! Our duty is to protect Queen Serenity and the
Princess. You can do it, Darla! Stand against them!*
    *I don't have the strength.* Mara's thoughts cried out. *I can't generate
enough power!*
     Sailor Chronos form smiled and stretched her hands outward...*Then take
some of mine. Together...we'll defeat them!*
     Sailor Mara ignoring Duke Kinches onslaught moved and reached toward
something that wasn't there! Vindalla's gaze narrowed. "What..?" she whispered.
     Sailor Mara reached her arm outward...

     *Take my hand.* the phantom Chronos answered. *You're my friend. I won't
ever abandon you!*

     Sailor Mara felt Sailor Chronos hand. Their minds seemed to intertwine for
a moment..and then, she opened her eyes feeling new strength! Mara still being
burned by the energy forced herself to her feet and turned to face Kinches.
     Kinches stared at her, his eyes losing their evil light..."Mara.." he
whispered...
     "DAMN YOU!!!" Vindalla shouted. She fired a blast of energy but, Mara
leaped backward and swung her staff upward....

     "ATOOOOOOOOMICCC....SHOOOOOOOOOCKWAVEEEE....INCIIIIIINERATE!!!!!"

     Vindalla cried out as the blast struck her full force and she was thrown
backward into the burning city....

     Duke Kinches turned quickly as he watched Vindalla fly backward. At that
moment, Sailor Mara aimed her staff. "SLEEEEEEP TRAAAAAANCE....EXECUTE!!!!"
     Kinches gasped as the energy hit him again. This time though, the darkness
held him and he gripped his head in pain fighting it. Before Mara could attack
again, Kinches flew after Vindalla.....
     Sailor Mara lost no momentum. She continued her attacks destroying dark
warriors until they retreated. Gasping in pain and feeling her adrenaline
fading, Mara collapsed beside the dead King of Mars. She wiped her tears and
realized that, although she had survived, the battle was lost. Her breathing
became more labored as she felt Mars die around her...
     Mara leaned back and lay on the ground. "Alyssa.." she
whispered..."thanks. Give some of that power....to the others..."

     Sailor Mara felt her strength leave her and the darkness closed in.....

     
     Vindalla gasped in pain feeling the effects from Sailor Mara's attack. She
turned and saw Kinches over her. "Kill her." Vindalla whispered....
     Kinches shook his head. "She's already dead...as is this world. Let's
regroup our forces and join the others in destroying the Moon Capital.."
     Vindalla nodded and glanced upward.."Our great Metallia will soon rule
all.."

     Duke Kinches nodded yet, deep inside himself a part somehow remained. A
part that felt great pain and regret from what they had done.....


                          Chapter Twenty Six:
                         Silver Millenium's End!

     Sailor Neptune grit her teeth as she dodged another of Sorcerror Kandow's
powerful attacks! Her breathing was labored now as she tried to keep ahead of him.
All around her, the air was filled with darkness and smoke making it difficult
to see. Kandow too looked tired. He stood several feet from her holding his
arms outward. A weak purple glow formed in his hands...
     Neptune shouted and swung her arms upward..."DEEEEEEEP...SUUUBMERGE!!!!"

     Her attacks were getting weaker along with herself. The attack launched
forth and Kandow immediately aborted his own to defend himself. The explosion
blew him backward into the ground. Taking advantage, Neptune ran forward and
screamed aiming at his chest with a flying kick! Fire shot up past her as the
smouldering buildings around them caught flame anew!
     Kandow swore and spun clear watching Neptune crash into the ground. She
turned to look at him, her face bleeding and her legs cut. Her Sailor fuku was
ripped in many places. Kandow smiled admiring her. "I apologize Sailor Neptune.
You're a more worthy opponent then I had anticipated. But, this game is over now.
YOU'RE MINE!!!!"
     Without warning he fired a broad beam at her that consumed Neptune making
her scream in agony. She reached upward trying to respond but, he tightened the
beam into a narrow field forcing her to gasp for air. Neptune fell forward and
passed into oblivion....
     Kandow still breathing hard stood up over his defeated opponent. "I salute
you, Sailor Neptune. But, your Millenium's time is ended. Now will be the new
age of Metallia. And, the entire universe shall soon know!" He saluted her
unconscious form and flew upward weakly in the direction of what was left of
the Moon Capital....

     Princess Serenity cried out as she watched the explosions in the distance.
Her eyes grew wide seeing the terrifying destruction that was taking place. She
looked wildly for Prince Endymion and her friends...but saw no sign of them...
     Suddenly, there was a flash before her. An energy form appeared before her
and merged to reveal Queen Beryl!
     Beryl smiled down at her. "SO....THE WHITE MOON PRINCESS IS ALONE! HOW
VERY FORTUNATE. I WILL ENJOY WATCHING YOU DIE!!!!
     Princess Serenity stepped back in fear. She looked for help but, there
was none. Where was her power? What ability did she have like her mother that
would defeat this evil?
     "You were our friends!" she cried. "What happened to you?"
     "You were never our friends!" Beryl smiled. "You and your kind planned all
along to join forces with the Tuathan de Daanan and destroy us! But that's all
over now FOOL! Your Silver Imperium..Millenium..call it what you will...is
ended! Through the great power of Metallia...WE HAVE DESTROYED YOU!!!"
     Beryl waved her hands upward and pointed toward the destruction around her
and the Princess. "LOOK YOU FOOL! IT'S OVER! I will rule all the Earth and now
the Moon and everything else as well! Our lovely Metallia has now begun the
birth of our new Dark Kingdom!!!"
     Princess Serenity gasped. "No...no...Dark Kingdom?"
     "Princess Serenity..." Queen Beryl laughed. "I shall destroy your
pretty face!! YAGHHHHHH!" Beryl aimed her hands forward and her nails
stretched into long talons of death!!

     "DIIIIE!" Beryl screamed. She flew toward Serenity prepared to
destroy her!!
     Suddenly, a red rose flew upward and slammed into Beryl's hand before
she could rip the Princess apart! Beryl cried out and turned to see
Prince Endymion standing a few feet away. His cape blew in the wind and,
his eyes flashed with anger. 
     "BERYL!" he shouted. IF YOU LAY A FINGER ON THE PRINCESS, I SHALL
MAKE YOU PAY!!"
     "Endymion!" Beryl stared at him. "You side with the Moon Queen and
her Princess when, you will be Prince of the Earth!"
     Prince Endymion moved over and stood in front of Serenity protecting
her...
     Beryl smiled evilly. "If you marry me, you'll become King of the
Moon, the Earth and everything else!"
     Endymion shook his head. "Beryl...you are being used by Metallia's
evil energy! Open your eyes! Cast aside this wickedness!!"
     "SILENCE!!!!!" Beryl shouted angrily. "I SHALL KILL YOU AS WELL!!!!"
     Instantly, a dark bolt of evil energy came down from the shadow of
Metallia and slammed into what was left of the castle around them!
     Princess Serenity clung to Endymion as he struggled to protect her.
Beryl smiled and, the energy surrounded them! Endymion cried out as he was
torn from her grasp and flew upward into the maelstrom!"

     "ENDYMION!!!!" Serenity shouted!! "NOOOOOOOO!!!!"


     Sailor Venus jerked her head upward as the scream cut through the
evil night. "PRINCESS!!" she shouted...
     Sailor Mars winced as she saw the four Kings surrounding them.
"Princess Serenity is in trouble! We have to get to her!!"
     Sailor Mercury nodded. "Somehow..we've got to escape this
situation..."
     Sailor Jupiter swung her arms apart feeling the electrical energy...
"LET'S GET THEM THEN!! SUUUUUUUPREEEME....THUUUUUUNDER!!!!!"
     Jedeite swore as Jupiter's blast slammed into him! He shouted and
returned fire blowing all the Senshi backward. Laughing, he turned to his
comrades. "DESTROY THEM!!!"
     Nephrite grinned and attacked the Senshi with a dark chain of energy! He
whipped it across their backs making them cry out! 
     Zoisite smiled. "Fools...now you know our power!!" He fired a wide field
around them that added to the dark chain that whipped them. The Senshi writhed
in agony, their Sailor fuku's torn and their bodies bleeding...
     Kunzite grinned. "So ends the so-called great Silver Millenium! Let's
complete it by finishing off the Sailor Senshi!"
     The Senshi all screamed in agony as the pain ripped through them! Sailor
Mercury looked up into the faces of their enemies that laughed wickedly. It was
over. There was no way they could protect themselves anymore...much less the
Princess or Queen Serenity. Unless a miracle occured...it was over!
         
     Queen Serenity ran through the ruins of the castle and turned quickly as
she heard what sounded like Luna and Artemis! She ducked under a cracked
archway trying not to look at the bodies that were sprawled across the floor.
     As she entered the room, she saw the two cats. They were dodging and
attacking some dark warrior that was standing there.
     Artemis growled and his fur went up. He ran right and launched himself
upward at the evil warrior. The man laughed and grabbed him by the neck! Luna
came from the left and leaped on the warrior's neck howling! She bit deeply
into his neck causing him to scream and drop Artemis...
     Queen Serenity closed her eyes and, white light came from her hands. She
aimed it and blew the man forward. His head impacted a cracked column
and he slumped onto the floor.
     Luna looked up. "Queen Serenity!"
     The Queen came forward and picked up Artemis. "It's alright. You two
don't have to fight anymore. The time has come to do what I must to end this
evil that has destroyed us."
     Artemis looked up weakly. "Queen..Queen Serenity?"
     The Queen smiled and caressed Artemis. "You two are my good friends. Do
what you can to protect everyone for me."
     Luna was about to answer but, she found no words as the Queen put Artemis
down and left the room.
     Luna nuzzled Artemis. "Artemis..what..what is she doing?"
     Artemis struggled to his feet. "Luna..I..I don't like her defeatist tone
of voice. She's planning something. Come on, we have to follow her!"
     Luna helped him up more and, the two followed Queen Serenity down the
corridor...

     Princess Serenity screamed as she watched Endymion fly upward. She ran
forward..

     "NOOOO Serenity! he shouted. "STAAAAY BAAAAACK!!!"
     Ignoring his warning, the Princess leaped forward into the energy that was
drawing him further upward into the darkness. She aimed herself for his
outstretched hand and grabbed it as they came together.
     Beryl glared and looked upward at the dark shadow of Metallia. In answer,
Metallia fired a burst of dark power that slammed into the couple and blew them
apart screaming....

     Queen Serenity exited the destroyed castle as it collapsed around her.
Beside her, Luna and Artemis ran. The Queen looked upward and witnessed the
dark evil's attack. "SERENITY!!!!" she shouted...
     The Princess and the Prince hung in the sky now as they flew upward with
no sign of life. Luna stared in horror and hung her head
sobbing.."Princess...Serenity..."

     "SHE'S DEAD!!!" Beryl laughed evilly. "THE MOON PRINCESS IS DEAD!!!" Her
laughter cut through the Queen like a knife...
     Queen Serenity stared upward feeling the agony and hopelessness of the
situation. Her strength left her and she collapsed to her knees. "Serenity.."
she whispered.

     Luna and Artemis watched with tears in their eyes as the couple continued
to be drawn upward toward the evil blackness..
     Queen Serenity opened her mind. She saw that her Sailor Senshi were
beaten. Those that were still able to fight were either under heavy attack or
were trapped on one of the other planets in what was left of the Silver
Millenium. There was nothing left to do...except....

     Luna's eyes grew wide as the Queen's hand opened and the Ginzuishou
appeared in it. She swallowed. "Queen Serenity..if you use the Ginzuishou...you'll
die!"
     The Queen nodded. "I'll trade my life for the peace of the Millenium and
the Earth!" She put the crystal on her sceptre and stood
up..."MOOOOON..HEAAALING....ESCAAAAAAALATION!!!!!!
     Luna and Artemis gasped as the Queen was bathed in a white light that
spread outward to encompass everything!!!


                         Chapter Twenty Seven:
                         Darkness Defeat..A New Future!

     Artemis gasped as the light continued to surround them. He could hear
Queen Serenity gasping inside it. "QUEEEEEEN SERENITY!!!!" he shouted.
     "NO!!! QUEEN SERENITY.." Luna's voice echoed.
     The white light moved outward covering the lunar landscape..consuming the
darkness in it's goodness.
     Princess Serenity and Prince Endymion unconscious were swept up into the
wave of power as it continued on...

     Queen Beryl stared in disbelief as the darkness on the ground began to
fade..then the light increased it's intensity and before she could move, she
found herself within it..."NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!" Beryl screamed. "METALLIA!!!"
     The shadow that was Metallia seemed to retreat for a moment as if trying
to escape the oncoming wall of light....then it screamed in horrible agony as
it was consumed by the energy wave...

     Sailor Jupiter cried out in pain as the dark energy consumed them. Then,
she and the others heard one of the dark enemies cry out.
     "LOOK!!" Zoisite shouted.
     All four of the dark Kings turned to see the wall of light coming toward
them. Kunzite stared. "What..is that??"
     "LET'S GET OUT OF HERE!!!!" Jedeite shouted. He flew upward to escape but,
the white light surrounded him. He screamed and disappeared...
     The remaining three covered their heads as if trying to protect themselves
from the onslaught. Before they could move, they too were consumed...
     Sailor Mars gasped..."This...this is...the power of the ginzuishou!!!"
     "NOOO!" Sailor Venus shouted. "QUEEN SERENITY!!! NO!!!!!"
     Sailor Mercury pulled herself from the ground.."This..this effect..it's
capturing all the evil and locking it into some sort of "pocket dimension" she
has created."
     "SHE'LL KILL HERSELF!!!" Jupiter shouted. She started to move then gasped
as the white light consumed her and the others. Overcome by it, they cried out
and fell to the ground crying.....

     The light continued outward. It moved with incredible speed toward Earth.
All evil within that was left was instantly captured within the effect and
purged from the world....
     Sailor Mara lying on the dead surface of Mars watched as the light came
toward her. She swallowed..."Queen....Serenity..."
     The light encompassed her but left her there as the evil around her that
was left screamed in agony as it was consumed...
    
     Vindalla turned quickly as the light came toward her. "What??? KINCHES!!!"
     Duke Kinches tried to shield Vindalla but felt the light rip her from his
grasp as he watched her disappear..."NOOOOO!" he shouted.
     *You are not truly evil* a voice said within him. *You will not share the
fate of the others..you will have a good life...*
     "GIVE HER BACK TO ME!!!" Kinches shouted like an insane man....
     *Her soul...cannot be purged. Rest now..*
     Kinches gasped as the light left him drained and he collapsed on the
surface of Mars....
     The energy wave continued on...it struck each of the former Imperium
planets bathing them in it's light.
     Sailor Saturn weak and dying looked up from the surface of Jupiter where
she had fallen..."Queen...Serenity...thank...you." she whispered. Saturn gasped
as the light bathed her in it's glory and moved on..
     
     Sailor Uranus lying on the surface of the destroyed world of Neptune
looked up as the wall of light approached. "Michiru.." she whispered. "I'll be
with you soon. Let's die together..."

     The light consumed her...and a voice filled her head...
     *Sailor Uranus...listen to me. You and Sailor Neptune have a mission. In
the future, you will need to find the three talisman's of power. They will come
from pure hearts. These when combined will give the Princess the power she
needs in the future to stand against the evil..should it ever escape..."
     "Stand..against...evil..." Uranus whispered.
     *Uranus...Haruka..I..I hear you..*  a voice whispered in her mind.
     *Michiru!* Uranus voice echoed in her thoughts. *We will be together
again..we will do as Queen Serenity asks...the talismans...*
     *We'll win the fight. We'll never lose again.* Neptune's voice echoed and
faded....
     "Princess..." Uranus whispered. She closed her eyes and passed out as the
light continued...

     *Sailor Pluto.*

     Sailor Pluto alone in the Gateway of Time turned trying to hear the voice
within her head. "Queen...Serenity.." she whispered.
     *Guard...the Gateway to Time. Thank you..Sailor Pluto. Protect Princess
Serenity...in the future...*

     Pluto heard the thoughts fade. She held the Time Key upward and stared at
the Gateway..an eternal guardian...waiting.....


     On the Moon Queen Serenity collapsed. Her energy faded and, she gasped for
air feeling the atmosphere fading. "Luna...Artemis..."
     The two cats moved to her side and nuzzled her. She reached up weakly and
stroked them.
     "Queen Serenity." Luna whispered.
     "I have sealed the evil that destroyed us all within the power of the
ginzuishou. But, it may not last. Someday, that power may be released
again...and the Sailor Senshi will need to be there to fight it..along with
you."
     "Queen Serenity...what..what are you saying?" Artemis fought back the
tears.
     "Both of you..I charge you with this mission. You will awaken from cold
sleep...and find Princess Serenity..and her Sailor Senshi..in the future.
Someday...you will all be united as one again."
     Queen Serenity opened her hand. "With the power of the Moon Sceptre..and
the Ginzuishou...I send you all...into the future..."
     The Queen opened her hand and the silver crystal flew upward into the sky.
For several seconds it hung there then, there was a flash! Luna and Artemis
stared in wonder as bubbles containing surviving members of the Silver
Millenium appeared. Luna gasped as she say Prince Endymion and Princess
Serenity in separate bubbles floating higher into space...
     "Queen Serenity..where are you sending them?" Luna cried.
     "To Earth...to a new life..in a new future." The Queen closed her eyes and
leaned back..."Farewell to you all, my children.

     Luna gasped as she felt herself falling into a sleep. "Yes...we'll...we'll
take care of the Sailor Senshi. We'll be there for..Princess Serenity."
     "She will be needed in the future..all of them will..should this evil ever
escape again." Queen Serenity felt her life fading as she watched the energy
balls containing the survivors flying upward....

     All across the system, the Sailor Senshi felt each of their consciousness
fade as the energy took them within...
     Sailor Mara barely breathing felt the energy enclose her.."Alyssa" she
whispered..."it's okay now...we're all saved..."
     
     Sailor Uranus smiled as the warm light surrounded her. "Within my
mind...within my heart..we'll always be one...Michiru."

     Sailor Neptune still unconscious felt within herself what was happening
just as she and Uranus had done only moments before. *I'll be waiting for
you...Haruka..*

     Sailor Saturn smiled to herself as she flew upward and began to fall into
the peaceful sleep..."In the future..in our new lives...we will forever be...as
one..."

     Sailor Pluto opened her mind having been linked temporarily with Queen
Serenity...."Farewell...my friends. Protect the Princess. I shall guard this
gateway...until that day...I am no longer needed...."

     In the darkness of what remained of the planet Chronos..an asteriod belt
that would circle the system for all eternity...Sailor Chronos slept within her
cold protective environment...awaiting the day when she would be revived once
again...and unite with her friends....

     Queen Serenity choked feeling her last energy fade. "It is done. Our
Kingdom will go on..Luna...Artemis...thank you...my friends..."

     Both cats trying to stay awake found themselves enclosed in two chambers
which began to float upward....

     Queen Serenity smiled as they flew higher and she closed her eyes letting
the Moon Sceptre fall from her grasp. It hit the ground and made a faint
metallic sound in the fading atmosphere....

     The Queen choked and tears fell from her eyes..."Farewell..." she
whispered one last time.........



     Luna opened her eyes. She looked up hearing the sounds of children. Their
wonderful voices filled her.Reaching within her mind, she tried to
remember..where..where had she come from? What was she doing here?
     The Princess! The thought struck her. She had to find the Moon Princess.
But..she also had to find...the Sailor Senshi!
     Luna looked down at the city from the top of the building she stood on. It
was a warm night...and somewhere out there...was her destiny. Someday she would
find them all. Luna leaped across to the next building and began her long
search. A search that one day give the world.....Sailor Senshi!!!

                              The End!


     Author's Note: "Days of A Silver Past!" is my own version of what happened
before the destruction of the Silver Millenium. It ties directly into my
fanfic "Dark Fire!" using the same Dark Kingdom enemies along with the regular
Sailor Moon, Dark Kingdom characters.
     If you enjoyed this, please take the time to let me know and if you wish
read my other fanfics I have written.

     Sailor Moon: Dark Fire!
                  Temporal Dreams!
                  Days of A Silver Past!


    Kimagure Orange Road: Summer Cruise
                          Fall Romance
                          Winter's Time of Fear!

      


      "May the Love of Queen Serenity protect and guide each one of you as it
does the Sailor Senshi..."

     Daniel Harrison
     September 29, 1997
     Internet:Skyhawk123@aol.com
     FidoNet: 1:138/293