Tales of Younger Jupiter
                                 Episode 6

Chapter 1

Luna and Artemis watched from a distance as the Dark Crystal continued
to grow.  They did not speak, the same thought on their mind.  They both
knew that if the Senshi could not stop Black Lady, then the world would
be destroyed.

Luna felt a reassuring nudge on her shoulder. She usually wouldn't have
permitted it but she appreciated the effort so she turned her head and
gave Artemis an appreciative look.

                                  ******

Mercury could feel the strong winds buffeting her.  They were high up.
According to her computer some fifty stories.  That would account for
the low hanging mass of black and foreboding clouds that Black Lady had
emerged from.  Now Black Lady floated gazing at the Senshi with open
hatred in her eyes.

"Show yourself!" Sailor Moon yelled, "I shall defeat you, Wiseman, and
return her to normal!"  Wiseman did not appear.  <I must be strong,
brave.  There are more people counting on me than ever before...>

Black Lady's form hovered above the Senshi.  She had not spoken since
her laughter had stopped. She raised her hands above her head releasing
a bolt of dark energy which sped towards six monoliths that encircled
the platform.  Each contact filled the air with energy and the crystals
seemed to take on a malevolent air.

"No one understands me."  Black Lady intoned coldly, "I shall open the
Black Gate and cast the world into darkness."

<Her soul has been tainted. I have not prevented that... It is my fault.
She will destroy Crystal Tokyo... Not if I can help it,> Younger Jupiter
thought, she had remained behind the others.  <They work as a team... I
also work with a team but my team is not here.  Ultimately this is that
time witch Pluto's fault...>  Unnoticed Younger Jupiter readied her
attack.

"Ki no..." Younger Jupiter had started to voice her attack; her voice
full of sadness.  <Good-bye Small Lady...  I take a new oath, even if it
is to myself.  I will not let you harm Crystal Tokyo. I will destroy
you.>

Sailor Moon noticed Younger Jupiter and held up her hand. "She is not be
hurt.  MY daughter is not to be hurt."

A feral smile played across Younger Jupiter's face as she stepped
forward. She seemed not to hear what Sailor Moon had said.

"You are a threat, Black Lady.  You are a threat to My Queen and Crystal
Tokyo.  I shall lay down my life to stop you."  <I have failed in my
oath, my duty...  I shall not fail in my new one... The destruction of
Black Lady.>

"Sako-chan, please don't do this," Venus said while slipping in front of
Younger Jupiter.  There was no response, all she could see was the dark
and brooding in Younger Jupiter's eyes.  "Listen to what Sailor Moon
said..." Venus tried again, <Why isn't she responding?  What is the
matter with her?>

"Younger Jupiter!" Venus finally screamed.

"Minako-chan, get out of the way."  Younger Jupiter growled, "I need to
do a job." <I need to kill my Small Lady.>

"Younger Jupiter, you will address me as `Commander'!" Venus raised her
voice in pitch and glared at Younger Jupiter.  <Come on, Sako, think.
If you kill that little girl not only would it crush Mamoru and Usagi,
it would devastate you as well.>

"What?!" Younger Jupiter's features were full of surprise,  <What does
she think she's doing?>  Lifting her eyes, she locked her gaze on Black
Lady, a tear rolled down her cheek. <I'm sorry little one... this isn't
your fault.>

"Our Queen has decreed that Chibi-Usa is not to be harmed. Younger
Jupiter, DO YOU UNDERSTAND?"

<Excellent, I will be able to get rid of one pest...the Senshi
Commander,> Black Lady thought, <Then, I will be able to torment Sailor
Moon and the others. They will know the agony they have put me
through...  That I've lived.> Raising her hands Black Lady prepared to
unleash her deadly assault.

"NO!!!" Younger Jupiter screamed.  With a mighty shove she pushed Venus
out of the way of the oncoming blast.


Venus toppled to the ground. Upon looking up she saw the dark ball of
energy hit Younger Jupiter full in the chest.  It picked Younger Jupiter
up and flung her backwards with untold force.  The driving wind helped
to speed her flight so Younger Jupiter was out over the crystal's edge
before the momentum slowed enough and gravity took over... Younger
Jupiter dropped like a stone out of sight.

The other Senshi looked on horrified.  Jupiter let out a strange croak
before assuming an attack position.  Venus' looks went from solemn to
surprise and then raw fury.  Turning she to prepared to attack but
Sailor Moon stopped them.  She sent a look.  The look said it all.  It
was heavy with sadness but it had a pleading quality to it.

Taking advantage of the distraction Black Lady released another energy
blast.  This time it was more widespread and blew the Senshi and Tuxedo
Mask off their feet.

"Imouto! You will die if you accept the dark energy!" Sailor Moon yelled
as she struggled to her feet.

"Please, Chibi-Usa-chan, stop this," Mars pleaded, "We love you!
Sako-chan... LOVED you!"  <I will pray for you, Sakuya...>

"No one understands.  That puny Senshi did not love me.  I shall cast
the world into darkness, destroy it, and take my revenge on those who
tormented me!" Black Lady yelled. "But first I will kill you, Sailor
Moon."  With that a blast was released, aimed directly at Sailor Moon.

Black Lady watched in astonishment as Tuxedo Kamen leapt in front of the
blast and took it for Sailor Moon.  <My love... why did you do that? You
belong to me... You should have not saved her... The person that stole
you from me... She hurt you almost as she hurt me.>

                                  ******

<I have failed...> Younger Jupiter thought as she rushed towards the
ground, <I have failed My Queen, Crystal Tokyo, and my oath...>  Just
before the blackness of unconsciousness took her Younger Jupiter
whispered, "Papa, I'll be with you soon."

                                  ******

"What?!" Black Lady cried out in surprised, "Why did he do that?  Why
did he risk your life for you?  You wouldn't have done the same for me!"

"I would have.  He did it because, Imouto, this is what a person does
when they care about someone.  They are willing to do anything for
them," Sailor Moon said while she helped Tuxedo Kamen up.

"We care about you, Chibi-Usa-chan," Jupiter said, her voice thick with
emotion, "Don't let me lose another friend." <Sako-chan...  Were you
right?>

"You are important to us.  We all love you," Tuxedo Kamen said. <My
Mesume... Don't let me lose my daughter to the darkness...>

It seemed to make an impact.  Black Lady started to waver before Wiseman
appeared.  Sending additional dark energy into her Wiseman said, "Black
Lady, Queen of the Black Moon Family, do not listen to these people.
They have betrayed you.  Hurt you, stolen what you wanted most."

"Yes... Sailor Moon did that.  Usagi did that.  She took Tuxedo Mask
from me," Black Lady said with venom and malice dripping from her voice,
"I love him... I had a picture of him but SHE stole it from me.  I was
punished because Usagi had taken MY picture of MY Mamo-chan."

The altered memories of that day passed through her mind.  Usagi had
taken that picture from her on the street.  Then in the park Sakuya had
threatened her.  Then when she got home...

"That isn't true... Please, Chibi-Usa-chan, listen to us.  We love you!"
Sailor Moon begged.  <Kami-sama... I'm losing her!>

"Chibi-Usa-chan, I love you," Tuxedo Mask said.

"Yes, Mamo-chan, I shall kill Sailor Moon and take you as my husband.
You shall rule by my side. She won't hurt you ever again," Black Lady
said while renewing her attacks.  The resulting storm of dark energy
that flowed around the Senshi forced them to the ground and pinned them
there.  They found it difficult to move, even to breathe.

<We shall face challenges greater then what we have encountered before,>
Sailor Moon thought.  Looking over to Tuxedo Mask she saw that he also
remembered what King Endymion had said. Crawling slow towards each other
they interlocked hands.  Together they stood up and faced Black Lady and
Wiseman.

"Moon Crystal Power!" Sailor Moon called out.  The resulting brilliance
temporarily blinded everyone. In the future, the encased Neo-Queen
Serenity was engulfed in light.  When the light faded Sailor Moon wasn't
there anymore.  Instead, standing there was not Princess Serenity but
Neo-Queen Serenity.  "You must remember your childhood..."  As she spoke
Neo-Queen Serenity's crescent moon flared bright.

In Black Lady's mind an image formed:  She had fallen and was crying.
Her parents wouldn't help her up; not because they were cruel but
because they wanted her to help herself. She remembered outings with
Sakuya and Kimeko.  She remembered the Christmas party where she
received her painting.  <I do have friends.  My parents love me. Sakuya
and Kimeko love me.  USAGI LOVES ME!>

<Damn that Sailor Moon!> Wiseman thought.  Raising skeletal hands he
engulfed Black Lady, Sailor Moon, and Tuxedo Kamen in a column of dark
power.  "We are born alone, and we die alone," Wiseman hissed before
removing the images from Black Lady's mind.

<Mommy! Daddy! Don't leave me alone!> cried the now terrified little
voice locked within the deepest reaches of Black Lady's mind.  With
renewed hatred, Black Lady said, "That's right, I was alone in the
darkness. I won't let you deceive me."

"Small Lady, you must leave this place.  It's hurting you physically and
mentally.  It is dangerous for you here," Neo-Queen Serenity said.

"No, it is only dangerous for YOU!" Black Lady said as she continued her
assault of dark energy on her hated parents.

"I don't care what happens to me.  I want to save you and I will do
anything that will save YOU!  We all go through hardships but that is
when our memories of good times must be held tight," Neo-Queen Serenity
said.  Lifting the Ginzuishou she sent its power at Black Lady who was
assaulted by a montage of images...

With images flowing through her, Black Lady remembers a happier past.
When she made curry with Usagi, had ice cream with Ami, had lunch with
Makoto and Sakuya, trained with Rei.  A deep feeling of warmth spread as
she remembered dressing like a nurse to help take care of Usagi...  She
remembered the love at Christmas, when Usagi helped her with the
nightmare... She remembered Sakuya and Kimeko.

<I am not alone...> Black Lady thought.

She could feel the warmth spreading as her mother said, "You are feeling
love.. We all love you, Small Lady..."

<Yes, I was not alone. I AM not alone!>  With the memories starting to
fade, Black Lady realized what the others had been trying to say.
Moving she went to embrace the person who loved her and cared for her
deeply.

                                  ******

The dark column of energy vanished to reveal Tuxedo Kamen, Neo-Queen
Serenity, and a sleeping Chibi-Usa.  Floating down Neo-Queen Serenity
reverted to Sailor Moon.  The other Senshi grouped around the awakening
figure of Chibi-Usa.

"We are so happy to see you safe..." Mars said.  <If only we had been in
time to save one more...>

Chibi-Usa's face showed open and unlimited love.  "Thank you...  I know
I am not alone now.  I know that I am loved."

A deep rumbling laugh from behind the group drew their attention back to
the situation at hand.  "No wonder it was easy to defeat that one
Senshi...  You don't pay attention when you talk."  The laughter
continued for a few more seconds before Wiseman said, "I may have lost
the power of Black Lady but the Black Gate is open and now I shall
destroy the world! For I am Death Phantom!"

Lifting his crystal ball Wiseman assaulted them once again with a dark
energy attack.  But it was more... It was the start of the end.  Large
purple and black lighting jumped from monolith to monolith as the Dark
Crystal channeled its power and started to spread its influence
throughout the city.

Struggling Sailor Moon used the Ginzuishou to sweep away the dark energy
that was holding them down.  Standing she walked away from the others
while saying, "I will stop you... I will not let you destroy the world.
The future of this world is depending on me!"

"Don't do it!" Tuxedo Mask cried as he realized Sailor Moon's
intentions. "If you use the Ginzuishou's full power, then you will die!"

The other Senshi now realizing exactly what their leader was doing
started to urge her not to use the Ginzuishou's full power but it did
not help.  Laughing Wiseman once again engulfed Sailor Moon in a dark
column of energy.  When it vanished Neo-Queen Serenity was in Sailor
Moon's place.

Chibi-Usa watched helplessly as her mother battled Wiseman...  Slowly it
became apparent that Wiseman was winning.  <I'm going to lose Mommy...
I took the Ginzuishou...  It's my fault!>  She started to cry, "It's all
my fault... It's my fault!  Because of me, Usagi..." Chibi-Usa trailed
off and looked on in wonder as one of her tears fell, stopped and
shimmered.  No more was it a salty tear but another Ginzuishou.  As
Chibi-Usa stared at it she remembered what happened to it... <It must
have went inside me when I touched it.>

Getting a determined look on her face Chibi-Usa wriggled free of Tuxedo
Kamen and said, "I'm going to help Mommy... This is my fault and I'm
going to help."

"No Chibi-Usa-chan...  If you use the full power of the Ginzuishou, then
you will die!" Tuxedo Kamen said.

"But it's all my fault!" Chibi-Usa wailed, "I have to help her... I
don't want Mommy to die!"  She pleadingly looked up at Tuxedo Kamen.
<Please? I have to fix this...>

"We will all help," Tuxedo Kamen said, "We will all give you our power."

"Ginzuishou help me.  Please protect everyone!" Chibi-Usa shouted as the
Senshi joined hands.  In a swirl of color Chibi-Usa's clothes changed
into a princess dress becoming Neo-Princess Serenity.

"What's this!?!?" Wiseman said.

Ignoring him each Senshi directed their energy to aid in the attack.
Together Neo-Queen Serenity and Neo-Princess Serenity both said, "Moon
Crystal Power! Evil that would destroy the world begone!"

With a fantastic shriek of denial Wiseman vanished.  The resulting
energy discharge nearly blinded the others.  Neo-Queen Serenity and
Neo-Princess Serenity found themselves floating a vast expanse of pink
light.

In the light Neo-Princess Serenity reverted into her normal clothes
becoming Chibi-Usa once more.  Neo-Queen Serenity vanished and was
replaced once again by Sailor Moon.

"Are we dead?" came Chibi-Usa's small voice.

"I think we are.  But that does not matter... we saved everyone."

Then both girls heard a voice.  It is Queen Serenity, "The Ginzuishous
have performed a miracle... They have stopped the evil and you are
alive.  The others are waiting for you."



Chapter 2

Tuxedo Kamen supported an unconscious Sailor Moon as Mars protectively
cradled an also unconscious Chibi-Usa.  The first to stir was Sailor
Moon who looked worriedly at her daughter who began to stir herself.

Mars set the now conscious Chibi-Usa down.  The young girl glanced
around before settling her eyes on Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Mask.  <She
said I was HER daughter... does that mean...>  Softly Chibi-Usa said,
"Okaa-san?"

The smile that went across Sailor Moon's face was brilliant.  Stretching
her arms wide she nodded vigorously.  Chibi-Usa ran into Sailor Moon's
arms and was swept into a tight embrace.  <She IS my mommy... then
Mamoru is...> turning her head she looked at Tuxedo Mask intently for a
few moments before saying, "Otou-san?"

Chuckling slightly Tuxedo Mask embrace both girls as he softly said,
"Yes, little one, I'm your father."

<Kami-sama, I wish I had a camera,> Mars thought, <I hope Usagi doesn't
blurt out what happened to Sakuya.>  Mars felt a small tear roll down
her face and turned in embarrassment.

Chibi-Usa who was feeling warm and safe tucked between both her parents
in a three way hug glanced around.  That's when she saw that Venus was
openly crying and trying desperately to wipe the tears away from her
face. <Why is Minako crying?> Chibi-Usa wondered.  Then she saw Jupiter.

Sailor Jupiter's back was stiff and rigid.  She was staring at the
ground but her shoulders were trembling slightly.  She looked like she
might just collapse if a strong wind came along.  <What is the...>
Chibi-Usa trailed off as a scene entered her mind.  She was Black
Lady... She had released a bolt of dark energy aimed at Sailor Venus
and...

<I tried to kill Minako... That would have killed Kimeko!> Chibi-Usa
thought as her breathing started to get faster. Then she remembered,
Younger Jupiter flying over the edge of the Dark Crystal and out of
sight. <But Sako pushed Minako out of the way and the energy hit her
and... I KILLED SAKO!!!> Chibi-Usa went rigid like a board, her
breathing faster she looked widely around.  Wriggling, she freed herself
of Sailor Moon's and Tuxedo Kamen's embrace and took several steps
backwards.

"Chibi-Usa-chan, what's wrong?" Tuxedo Kamen wondered.

"You look really scared, why?" Sailor Moon asked.

Chibi-Usa's actions had attracted the attention of the other Senshi as
well.  They were all now looking at her except for Jupiter who was still
looking at the ground.  <Killing is wrong... I did something wrong...
When I do something bad...>  She thought about the criminals brought
before her parents and sentenced. Tears ran down the little girl's
cheeks.  Looking up at her parents with clear terror she said, "W...
what...  what are you going to do?"

Sailor Moon blinked. <What's wrong?> "Chibi-Usa-chan, what do you mean?"

Looking around Chibi-Usa stuttered, "I... I k... killed... Younger
Jupiter... didn't I?"  Tears began to flow down Jupiter's face. She
couldn't hold them back any longer.

"No, Chibi-Usa, you didn't kill her...." Mars started.

"DON'T LIE TO ME!!!  I killed Younger Jupiter! Killing is wrong, isn't
it?!" Chibi-Usa yelled.  She had started backing away but was now
angrily glaring through teary eyes at her parents.  <I tried to kill
Mommy...>  As more tears fell, the little girl felt something tighten
around her heart, <I'm bad...  It's my fault that Sako is dead!>

"Yes, killing is wrong," Mercury put in quietly.

"Chibi-Usa-chan, it isn't your fault," Sailor Moon said.

<Why are they lying to me?>  "It is my fault... I killed Sako-chan...
SO WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?!"

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN?!" came Venus' hoarse voice.  Chibi-Usa jerked as if
she were slapped and retreated several more steps.  <Oh!!  Now I've done
it,> Venus thought as she started slowly towards Chibi-Usa.

<Here it comes...> Chibi-Usa thought.

"Gomen, Chibi-Usa-chan, I didn't mean to snap at you," said Sailor Venus
softly.  Venus slowly walked forward and whispered in Sailor Moon's ear,
"Usagi-chan, we need to go find the body.  It's best if Chibi-Usa
doesn't come with us."

Sailor Moon feelings changed from worry to disbelief.  <Kami-sama!  I
forgot about the body!>  She looked at Tuxedo Kamen who seemed to
overhear what Venus had said and been thinking the same thing.

<Maybe they aren't really sure how to do it,> Chibi-Usa thought glumly.
She knew what happened if you tried to kill the Queen although she
didn't really understand the concept.  A sort of morbid curiosity got
into Chibi-Usa and she couldn't resist.  "Mommy, how... how are you
going to kill me?"

The silence her question produced was deafening.  Most of the Senshi
were staring at her with looks of shock and disbelief.  All except one.

Sailor Moon looked horrified, <I can't even conceive of a thing.  Me
kill my own daughter!>  She glanced around to Venus whose mouth was
hanging open.

Before Sailor Moon could say anything Venus spoke up, "Chibi-Usa-chan,
we aren't going to kill you! How could you think we'd do that?" Venus'
was horrified at the mere thought of it.  <What this little girl needs
is Sako... and she isn't here.>

Before Chibi-Usa could respond, Sailor Jupiter detransformed to her
regular clothing and slowly came forward. She passed Sailor Moon and the
others to stand only about five feet from Chibi-Usa.

Chibi-Usa looked up at that long expanse. She looked up to Makoto's face
expecting to see anger and hatred but all that was nestled there instead
was a deep sadness.  Crouching down Makoto held out her hand to
Chibi-Usa.

Chibi-Usa's terror increased with the proximity of Makoto. <What is she
going to do?>  A coldness slipped down her spine and she began to
shiver, <Is... is she going to...>

"Chibi-Usa-chan... trust me," Makoto's voice was thick.  <Oh little
one... I've caused you so much pain.  I should have listened to Sako.
You are safe now... it isn't your fault... It's mine.>

Tentatively Chibi-Usa held out her hand and was surprised when Makoto
drew her into a hug.  Makoto began to cry again but she was whispering
something only Chibi-Usa could hear, "It isn't your fault,
Chibi-Usa-chan.  We don't want to kill you... we want to love you, keep
you safe and warm.  I don't hate you. I don't think Sako-chan would
either. It was MY fault that Sako-chan died."

Chibi-Usa raised her head up and looked deep into Makoto's eyes. She
could feel herself starting to cry again.  "I don't understand!"
Chibi-Usa finally wailed, "I don't understand!  Tell me why don't you
hate me!? Why isn't it my fault!? I KILLED SAKO-CHAN!!!"

She just felt Makoto give a little bigger hug and looked to find Usagi
standing there, she had changed back as well.  So had all of the Senshi.
Usagi had a very sad expression on her face but it was also heavy with
worry.

"Chibi-Usa-chan, it isn't your fault... Don't blame yourself," Makoto
said. <You should blame me... I think even Sako would.>

Usagi was starting to cry. <Oh Mesume, I wish I could make all this
better.  I wish I could take away the pain for you... Maybe that is what
a mother does, or tries to do.>  Holding out her arms Usagi said,
"Mako-chan, I'll take her."

Makoto seemed reluctant to give up Chibi-Usa to Usagi but did so.  Usagi
then mouthed, "Find the body."  Nodding Makoto moved off a little way
and motioned the others over to her.

The first task was to get Chibi-Usa to relax her body.  Her body was
rigid and unyielding.  Usagi held her daughter close and started rubbing
her back in small circles.  It seemed to help a little bit because
Chibi-Usa relaxed slightly. Chibi-Usa thought, <They don't act like
they're going to kill me.>

As Usagi was trying to figure out how to prove to Chibi-Usa that they
didn't blame her, the sun began to rise.  Turning so she could see it
Usagi held her daughter close, feeling her little heart still racing and
hearing the throaty sound as she breathed.  She felt like a mother.

"We care about you, Small Lady, and we don't blame you for anything you
did as Black Lady." Chibi-Usa finally began to calm down.

"Why did I want Daddy as my husband?" Chibi-Usa inquired. <I don't get
it... I want Daddy as my father.>

Usagi looked at Mamoru who looked back.  She moved over to a bench and
prepared herself for a long talk that she probably wouldn't understand
herself.  Looking to Mamoru with a devious smile, she said, "I think you
should answer that question."

<Well that's part of her revenge. I knew she just wouldn't forgive me,>
Mamoru thought gloomily.

                                  ******

The girls were out looking for the body.  Rei was with Makoto; Ami was
with Minako.  They were searching the park near where the Dark Crystal
once stood. <I got in her way...> Minako thought, <It was my fault.  She
had more experience than us... I should have helped Sakuya instead of
stopping her.>  She wiped a tear from her eye. "It should of been me.
Sako-chan died trying to save me."

Ami turned sharply to her.  Her nostrils were flaring slightly.  There
was a angry look to her.  "Mina! You can just stop blaming yourself.
You of all people know that it was impossible to know what was going to
happen.  Chibi-Usa-chan's already blaming herself and Makoto's going
through something that she's already gone through once before!"

Minako started at Ami for a moment.  It was a very un-Ami-like thing for
her friend to do.  Minako opened her mouth to speak but she was stopped
by Ami's upraised hand.

Ami waited for Minako to close her mouth before saying, "Minako-chan,
I'm sorry but the path you were going down wouldn't have helped and I
don't really think Usagi should even hear such talk coming from you. Rei
certainly wouldn't have stood for it either."

                                  ******

Rei wasn't handling the silence well.  She didn't like thinking of what
a body would be like after a fifty story drop but the silence that
Makoto was keeping was even worse.

Finally Rei got angry. It had been building up for sometime and her
first reaction was to vent it, which she did.  "Kami-sama Makoto! Would
you say something; this `silence' is driving me crazy!"

Makoto stopped and stood stock still.  Her eyes glistened with unshed
tears.  "What should I say, Rei?!" Makoto yelled, "That I do blame
myself for this?  That I couldn't see that Black Lady was a threat?  Yes
it's true! I do blame myself for this because Sakuya was right... Black
Lady was a threat.  We went into this thinking that we could heal
Chibi-Usa quickly and get out."

"We DID heal Chibi-Usa AND we DID get out!" Rei countered. She was now
feeling a little guilty for invading Makoto's private thoughts at a time
like this. <Or maybe I just don't want to listen to them because they
are so close to my own.>

"Okay then... This feels like the time I lost my parents!" Makoto yelled
at Rei. She then stomped angrily away.  She had only gone a short
distance before stopping.  Her posture turned to one of defeat.

Rei slowly walked up to Makoto.  "I don't really know what to say,
Makoto.  You rarely talk about your parents."

Makoto seemed to be staring at something off in the distance, in a quiet
tone of voice she said, "Rei-chan... when Sak... when MY granddaughter
came into my life... I felt..." she trailed off and blushed.

"Felt?" Rei queried, her curiosity piqued.

After a long pause Makoto said, "I felt whole. You guys are my family
but Sakuya was REAL family."

"Oh Makoto..."

                                  ******

Ami and Minako continued walking in silence for what seemed to Minako
like an eternity. An eternity to silently blame herself.  As they
rounded a corner Ami gasped slightly and came to a halt.  Minako stopped
and before she could ask what was wrong she saw it.

Sakuya's body didn't look very good.  It certainly didn't look like it
dropped from fifty stories.  <Maybe it's a Senshi thing?> Minako thought
morbidly and was glad she hadn't said it out loud.  She started to reach
for the communicator and stopped.

"Mercury, how bad is it?" Minako asked.  Ami had transformed and was now
scanning the body with her visor.

"Massive head and spinal trauma.  Internal bleeding, one lung punctured,
several ribs are fractured and..."

"THERE'S MORE?!?!" Minako asked horrified.  <I don't feel so good!>

"There is also a third degree burn across forty percent of her skull,
from the energy... It created three hairline fractures." Minako's
stomach heaved.  She just had time to turn so she wouldn't hit Mercury.
At first she didn't hear Mercury's voice, "None of the injuries are
consistent with a fall, only from Black Lady's attacks.  There are
traces of residual energy on the body.  There is, however, `good news',
if you want to call it that." Minako blinked and looked up.

"What?" Minako managed to say.

"She is alive."



Chapter 3

Makoto and Rei made their way over to the scene.  "Where's Usagi?" Rei
asked as she approached.

Minako shakily made her way over to Makoto and said, "Mercury called you
guys first..."  Minako glanced over her shoulder before saying,
"Mako-chan, I don't think you should look."

Makoto didn't say anything and started towards where Mercury was
standing watch while scanning the area.  When she drew closer Mercury
said without looking up, "Minako, no sign of Emergency crews."

Makoto let out a startled gasp as she saw the burned and bruised form of
Sakuya.  She let out a little sob and started forward but Mercury who
now realized who it was placed her arm on Makoto shook her head and
said, "Mako-chan, there's nothing you can do.  Sakuya's alive but she
probably won't live very long."

                                  ******

Usagi ran to the spot.  Mercury looked up and moved to intercept her.
Usagi heard more running feet and knew it was Tuxedo Kamen and
Chibi-Usa.  Mercury must have noticed them and frowned.

"Usagi!" Mercury whispered angrily, "I told you not to bring Chibi-Usa!
Makoto's holding on but I don't know for how much longer; Minako had a
hard time... Even I'm having a hard time.  I know I will when this gets
finished."

Moving out Mercury placed herself between Chibi-Usa and the body.  She
looked at Tuxedo Kamen and ordered, "You are to keep Chibi-Usa here.
She is not to come any closer."

"But I have to see her!" Chibi-Usa said.

"NO!" Mercury stated flatly.

"Okay," Chibi-Usa said subdued.  When Mercury turned her back however
Chibi-Usa broke into a run and sped past her towards the body.  When she
reached it...

She stared in horror.  The chest area seemed to have caved in.  Most of
the hair and skin was missing from the skull so that the bare bone
showed through.  Chibi-Usa felt herself becoming sick from the smell.
Turning she dashed towards Usagi with a new flood of tears streaking
down her face.

"Mommy, how could I do that?!!" Chibi-Usa cried as Usagi bent down and
hugged the little girl close.  "How could I do that to Sako-chan?!"
Usagi could feel Chibi-Usa breathing even more rapidly as the her
daughter buried her face into her shoulder.

"Chibi-Usa-chan, it's alright. You didn't do this.  Wiseman did.  We
don't blame you..." Usagi said softly.  "Chibi-Usa-chan, we love you...
It is a sad thing that Sakuya died but we blame Wiseman not you..."

Chibi-Usa wouldn't hear of it.  "I hated Sako-chan!  I hated you! I
tried to kill Minako-chan... but... but I killed Sako-chan INSTEAD!"

<Okay let's try a different approach.  She's not really listening. Maybe
I can get her attention.>  Preparing herself up for a large vocal
complaint from the others Usagi yelled, "Small Lady! That is enough!"
The vocal complaint never came. The others were standing in astonishment
of Usagi.

Chibi-Usa stopped crying and looked up into Usagi's face with terror
gripping her heart.  <I was right. They really DO blame me...> Chibi-Usa
thought as she waited for Usagi to do something.  What Usagi did however
was not what Chibi-Usa expected.

Usagi kissed Chibi-Usa on the forehead and said, "Now maybe you'll
listen to me... WE love you...  That is what changed you back to
Chibi-Usa from Black Lady.  We DO NOT blame you for what Wiseman made
you do." Giving her daughter one more hug, she handed her over to Mamoru
who started talking quietly to her as she then approached the body.

"We have to call an ambulance. Sakuya needs to get to a hospital right
away!" Makoto said.

"Yes but what are we going to tell the authorities?" Minako added
worriedly.

"Ambulance?" Usagi questioned.

"Yes... she's still alive but I don't think we have much time so we
better think of something fast," Rei said.

Usagi glanced at Mercury and noticed the sad expression on her face. She
knew what it meant. <Even if we call an ambulance, she won't make it.>
Usagi thought, <I can feel it. I don't understand why but I know...  I
know what I must do.  Correction what I will willingly do.>

Rei watched with disbelief as Usagi cupped her hands over her broach and
in a double flash of light transformed from Usagi to Princess Serenity.
<She's going to use the Ginzuishou... She doesn't have enough strength
to use it.>  "Serenity no... Let's get Sakuya to a hospital.  You don't
have to do this."

This attracted the other's attention.  Chibi-Usa ran to where Serenity
was and seeing the Ginzuishou said, "Please! I want to help!  I want to
make things right!"

"NO!" Mercury said, "There is no guarantee, Serenity, and Chibi-Usa
doesn't know how to use it properly."

"I must... but you are right that Chibi-Usa must not help.  She would
not be able to help..."  Serenity turned an apologetic look on Chibi-Usa
who was about to protest but then closed her mouth.

"I think we should try... Mercury, is there any chance that she will
live to get to a hospital and even if she does will she survive?" Minako
pleaded.

Mercury shook her head in the negative and then glanced at Makoto who
was just staring at the Sakuya's limp form.  "What about Makoto?" Makoto
lifted her head and the look said it all.

"That settles it. I must try," Serenity said and waited for the others
to step back before she activated the Ginzuishou.

                                  ******

The pain was severe and yet distant and numb.  She couldn't see and
Sakuya wasn't sure where or when she was.  <Kami-sama, it's dark?  Is
life after death a nothingness?>  Sakuya couldn't move, <Am I a bodiless
spirit floating in the mist of nothing?  No, I must be held somehow
because I can feel pain...>

Then the world around her became lighter.  At first it was diffuse
shadows but they slowly came into focus.  She couldn't hear very well at
first then she noted a rumbling in the distance. <Traffic?> she thought
but it hurt to think.  She felt something tingling in her eyes; blinking
rapidly she focused on a sight she never again thought she'd see: the
very worried expression of Makoto.

She heard Makoto's voice, "Keep it up! It's working!"

<Keep it up?>

As if in answer to her mental question, Minako said, "Serenity, it's
working..."

<Serenity?! Serenity... Serenity!!!>  "Stop!" Sakuya barely croaked out.

"You are still injured," Serenity said, "I must not. I can heal you all
the way."

"NO!  I will not allow it... You have brought me back far enough, My
Queen. I could not forgive myself if you came to harm because of me." It
came out as a harsh whisper. Serenity looked into Sakuya's pleading eyes
and did as she was asked. She returned the Ginzuishou to its normal
state.  "With rest and time to recover, I will be fine." Before she
could so much as think, she was assaulted by a tiny form.

"YOU'RE ALIVE!" Chibi-Usa cried and ran over.  She nearly flung herself
at Sakuya and wrapped her arms around Sakuya's neck. It was a bit
painful but Sakuya didn't mind.  "It's my fault, Sako-chan. I tried to
kill you..." Chibi-Usa said as she started to cry again.  Princess
Serenity and Sailor Mercury changed back to their normal identities.

Despite the pain she was in Sakuya did the natural thing she reassured
her charge.  She felt herself starting to cry, "Oh Small Lady, I am so
glad to see that you are alright.  Don't blame yourself. I was at fault.
I should have protected you better."

"I will not go through this!" came the angry voice.  Looking up both
girls saw it was Usagi.  "If you want to blame yourselves, at least have
the decency to do it after we get some sleep!"

Sakuya couldn't help it.  She started to laugh and immediately regretted
the fact but she continued as Makoto slowly helped her up.  <That is the
Queen that I know.>

Chibi-Usa giggled as well, <She sounds like my Mommy now...>

Turning to Chibi-Usa she said, "Small Lady, if Usagi is safe and Wiseman
defeated, then Neo-Queen Serenity is alright.  You have succeeded in
your mission here in the past and it's time to go home."

"Oh no you don't!  Not today at least.  Sako-chan, you're coming with me
and I'm stuffing you and putting you to bed.  If you must leave, you'll
do it tomorrow," Makoto ordered.

Sakuya quickly hid the smile that she felt coming on and said in a very
irritated voice, "Oh alright... Obaa-san."

Chibi-Usa grinned ear to ear. She knew what this meant. She would get a
chance to spend another day with her mother and father. This time with
no worries about her mother in the future. This time her mother and
father would be together.



Chapter 4

The entire Tsukino family excluding Usagi watched with awe and disbelief
as Chibi-Usa lived up to her namesake and stuffed the seventh pancake
into her mouth and chewed happily away.

Luna-P had been used to "adjust" the Tsukinos again.  As far as Ikuko
and the others were concerned, Usagi and Chibi-Usa had been at Rei's for
a sleep over and that Chibi-Usa was leaving tomorrow because her mother
wanted her home soon, hence the pancake breakfast.

"Are you sure you aren't Usagi's daughter?" Shingo queried.

Usagi who had been taking a drink of her milk broke into a choking fit
and glared at Shingo.  Finished chewing, Chibi-Usa glanced from Usagi to
Shingo and back.  <Hmmm... I wonder if I could get away with it?>
Chibi-Usa thought, <Okay give him a little poke.>

"Might be," Chibi-Usa responded brightly and then to Ikuko, "Ikuko-mama,
can I have another one please?"  Out of the corner of her eye Chibi-Usa
caught Shingo's expression.  He was definitely chewing on her response
and what she had meant by it.

"No Chibi-Usa-chan, you've already had lots.  You might get sick," Ikuko
said. <I'm getting sick just watching her stuff them in!>  Seeing the
dejected look Ikuko said, "You wouldn't want to get sick and have to
wait longer to see your mommy."

"I think I could manage," Chibi-Usa responded. <I'm pushing it but I
can't help it.>

"You know, I was never able to find your mother's phone number..." Ikuko
trailed off in thought.

<One last poke, Okaa-san looks like she's ready to explode.>  Chibi-Usa
turned to Ikuko and said, "Maybe it's the same as here just a different
time zone."  Chibi-Usa tried to control the giggling.  The look that
Usagi was shooting her was priceless.

"Excuse me, I have homework to do."  With that Usagi stalked out of the
room.

                                  ******

"Excellent as usual," Sakuya said.

Sakuya, Minako, and Makoto were sitting in Makoto's small kitchen.  Ami
and Rei had bid their good-byes and left for home.  Minako had seemed in
no particular hurry to get home.

"Yes it was good," Minako said, "I appreciate you letting me stay."

<Here's my chance to get to the bottom of this,> Makoto thought.
"Minako-chan... what's bothering you?"  Minako averted her eyes and
didn't respond.  <Okay, let's try a different tact.>  "Are you still
blaming yourself?"

Minako sat silently for a good five minutes with the others watching
her.  She felt a gentle nudge and found Artemis rubbing her leg.  She'd
forgotten about him.  Picking him up she started to pet him before
softly saying, "In a way, I think I'm just starting to realize how close
we came..."

Sakuya opened her mouth but Minako continued, "The biggest challenge
we've faced was against Beryl up until now..."  Minako moved away from
those memories, "I guess we thought that it would be easier."

"I think there's a little more than that."  Sakuya prodded gently, "I
don't think you thought it was easier. Obaa-san stopped me from running
head long into that...  I wouldn't have lived."

Minako lifted her head and said softly, "Yes Kimeko-chan."

"Who?" Makoto asked. "Usagi mentioned a Kimeko when she was talking to
Black Lady... Is she the same person?"

Minako glanced at Sakuya who gave a vague semblance of a shrug.  "Kimeko
is Younger Venus.  More specifically, Minako's daughter."  Seeing
Makoto's glare Sakuya continued, "When we went to my office Younger
Venus was there.  They had an encounter before I could prevent it."

"I should get going..." Minako said, "I'll talk to you later."

                                  ******

Chibi-Usa was playing outside.  It was mid-morning now.  <Usagi's mad at
me,> Chibi-Usa thought, <I pushed a little too hard.>  Chibi-Usa had
tried to find out what was wrong but Usagi wouldn't respond to
Chibi-Usa's knocking.  She wasn't about to open the door since Usagi
seemed to want to be alone; it might just make matters worse.  Chibi-Usa
had gone outside to play but now was feeling tired, and guilty.

Heading into the house she softly padded up the stairs and knocked once
more on Usagi's door; there was no response at all.  <I have to see
what's wrong,> Chibi-Usa thought as she quietly opened the door.  Usagi
appeared to be fast asleep on the bed.  Slipping inside Chibi-Usa softly
made her way over to Usagi's bed.  <So tired... and I want to spend some
more time with Okaa-san.>

Gently hoping up she snuggled close to Usagi and started to drift off to
sleep when she felt Usagi stir.  Opening her eyes she saw Usagi looking
at her.

"What's wrong?" Usagi asked sleepily.

"I hated you," Chibi-Usa blurted out, "And not when I was Black Lady."

Usagi blinked her eyes before asking, "When?"

"I hated you when you spanked me."

"That is different, Chibi-Usa-chan.  You were angry with me for spanking
you and that's natural," Usagi said while giving her daughter's shoulder
a little squeeze.

"What's the difference?" Chibi-Usa queried in a drowsy voice.

"I'm not really sure," Usagi admitted, "Maybe I was too hasty as well."

<Maybe...> Chibi-Usa thought before asking, "So you won't spank me
again?"

"I didn't say that," Usagi said, "But I am glad your safe and free of
Wiseman's influence.  Musume, don't feel sorry for what you did as Black
Lady.  Now try and sleep; we've both had a very exhausting time."

Grimacing slightly, Chibi-Usa was still content to fall asleep knowing
that Usagi was there.  Just before drifting off to sleep Chibi-Usa said,
"I love you Mommy..."



Chapter 5

Mamoru gave Usagi's shoulder a squeeze.  They were sitting on a bench
watching Chibi-Usa enjoying herself.  Usagi snuggled a little closer and
gave a little bit of a yawn.

"Bored already?"

"Gomen... Mom was wondering why we were sleeping again.  Chibi-Usa seems
to have more energy than me.  That could because of how many pancakes
she ate this morning though."

Mamoru had heard the number.  Five was Usagi's limit but Chibi-Usa had
surpassed it; however, something seemed to be bothering her.  "Usako,
what's wrong?"

"Nothing, I'm just tired and relieved.  I'm still a little ticked at you
for doing what you did though," Usagi said but it masked her thoughts.
<I'm also sad that Chibi-Usa is leaving... I'm going to miss her.>

Any further discussion was cut short by Chibi-Usa who came running over.
"I want to go visit Sako-chan!" she called out.

"Well Usagi will have to go with you.  I have things I have to do but
tomorrow before you leave I'll take you out for ice cream, okay?" Seeing
Chibi-Usa's nod Mamoru leaned over and kissed Usagi.

After about a minute of watching her parents do that Chibi-Usa said,
"You're in public!"

"If we didn't do that you wouldn't even be a gleam in Mamoru's eye,"
Usagi responded.  Mamoru turned a beet red and made a hasty retreat.

"What?!" Chibi-Usa said, "What does kissing have to do with... um... you
know?"  Now it was Chibi-Usa's turned to blush.

"Where'd you hear something like that?" Usagi croaked out.

"Mercury-sensei."

To halt any further discussion Usagi took Chibi-Usa's hand and they
walked down the street towards Makoto's place.

                                  ******

"Usagi-chan? Chibi-Usa-chan?" Makoto questioned when she answered the
door. "I thought you two would be sleeping.  That is a genetic trait of
the Usagis I believe." Makoto attempted to suppress a giggle.

"We were at the park with Mamoru.  Chibi-Usa wanted to see Sako-chan, is
she up?"

"I don't know... she slept through lunch.  Chibi-Usa can go take a look
while I fix you guys something to eat. Have you had lunch?"

"Just something light for Chibi-Usa, she stuffed herself this morning,"
Usagi said as she took a seat on the couch.

"Hey!  I'm a growing girl!" Chibi-Usa protested as she headed towards
Sakuya's bedroom.

Once Chibi-Usa was inside the bedroom with the door closed Makoto said,
"How she taking it?"

"Not very well...  She's still blaming herself.  How about you?"

Makoto looked uncomfortable for a few moments before saying, "Yeah...
I'm working through it.  I know it wasn't me and it helps that Sakuya is
alive... if not in very good shape."  <I don't know.  Deep down I don't
really want her to go either.  That just makes it worse.>

                                  ******

Sakuya smiled when Chibi-Usa came into the room.  "Konnichiwa, Small
Lady." <Kami-sama but I'm glad I didn't succeed...  To see that face
again.> Sakuya felt a small tear roll down her cheek.

Approaching the bed Chibi-Usa said, "I... I'm sorry Sakuya-san.  I...
didn't mean to hurt you."  Seeing that Sakuya was just looking at her
Chibi-Usa said in a rush, "Usagi-chan tells me it isn't my fault and
Makoto says she isn't mad at me and you aren't either but I can't
believe that."

"I'm not mad at you," Sakuya said quietly while reaching a hand to brush
a stray strand of hair out of Chibi-Usa's face, "It'll take time to
accept, Small Lady.  I think you should be proud.  You helped your
mother."

"But what I did to you..."

Sakuya smiled and said, "Was NOT your fault.  I will not start this game
again.  You'll just have to believe us."

Chibi-Usa started to sniffle a little bit and then ducked her head, "I
know but like I told Usagi this morning I hated you when I wasn't Black
Lady.  When I got into trouble I hated you.  Usagi said it was different
but I don't see how."

Sakuya thought about it for a few moments before saying, "Small Lady,
Wiseman made you hate.  He told you lies that weren't true.  Explaining
it is hard...  Maybe the Queen can help you with that.  It'll take
awhile and I'm not really up to talking now."  As if that was a cue
Sakuya's stomach grumbled, "I am, however, up to eating.  Would you go
out and tell Makoto that I'd like something to eat, please?"

Chibi-Usa hugged Sakuya and said, "Okay... you'll be okay... Sako-chan?"

"After some rest... Obaa-san's good food and rest," Sakuya said
reassuringly. <And no Minako to torture me back into health.>



Chapter 6

That night found Sakuya sitting on the couch watching the television.
She'd convinced Makoto that sitting up would be fine.  Glancing over to
Makoto she seemed distracted.  <I know I have to go back but... I like
it here.  It feels like I'm running out on her. I'm her only family
here.>

"Sako-chan, how you holding up?" Makoto asked, "It's getting late."

"If you want to go to bed, go. I've slept most of the day," Sakuya said.
<That and I have to work through things.  I close my eyes and I see that
energy bolt coming at me.>

Makoto was silent for a few more minutes before saying, "How did we get
along when I first met you?"

<Oh Obaa-san...>  Sakuya sighed slightly before saying, "That's a tough
one.  I've already told you so much."  Seeing a sullen expression on
Makoto's face Sakuya continued on, "I meant in the future..."  There was
a long pause before Sakuya said softly, "You were like a mother to me."

Makoto gave Sakuya a sharp look. <I will not cry!> she thought
determinedly, <I'll be able to see her later on.  I'll be able to watch
her grow.>  With a waver in her voice Makoto said, "When I thought you
were dead I told Rei... I told Rei that if felt like losing my parents
all over again."

Sakuya sniffled. "Don't you dare cry," Makoto said, "You mean a lot to
me.  I'll see you in the future.  I'll be able to be part of your life
from when you're little.  I plan of being there when my daughter gives
birth to you."

Sakuya's face crumpled, <Makoto... that's going to hurt you deeply.
That's why I didn't say anything.>  She felt tears hot, fresh, come.
"You won't be there for when I'm born."  Sakuya sobbed out, "Damn you,
Pluto!"

Makoto could feel her internal walls collapsing.  <I won't be there?
Why?> Trying to comfort Sakuya she reached out and hugged her.  She
found herself in a hug that was crushing.  "Sako-chan, it's all right...
I'll get to see you grow up.  You and my daughter will be very important
to me."

"I... I wish... I... I could tell you," Sakuya stuttered out. <You have
been a great comfort to me.  Especially when my father died.>

The internal walls came crashing down and Makoto joined in, "I'm going
to miss you!  I've tried pretending that it wouldn't matter but this
place will be empty... And I'll be... alone.  You are MY family."

"So are the others," Sakuya countered.

"No..."  Makoto whispered, "They are family but you are REAL family."

Unseen by either of them Artemis watched through a window, <I wonder how
Usagi's handling it?>

                                  ******

"Come in," Usagi called upon hearing the knock on the door.  Chibi-Usa
came in and closed the door behind her.  "Can't sleep?" Usagi
questioned, Chibi-Usa shook her head and proceeded to hop up onto the
bed.

"Well I have to finish this...  So get comfortable," Usagi said as she
turned back to her neglected homework. <I can't believe it. Chibi-Usa
has done so much for me including motivating me to get better grades.>
Usagi let out a sigh.  Chibi-Usa slipped under the covers but kept her
gaze fixed on Usagi.  <I'm going to miss her,> Usagi thought. "Will you
be excited to see your parents?"

"Yes," came the response. <But I'll miss you.>

It was silent in the room except for the occasional scraping of Usagi's
pencil.  <It'll be almost one thousand years...  That's a long time to
wait to see someone.>  Usagi felt a lump start to form, <I'm not going
to cry...  She's going to see her parents.  I just can't be that
selfish.  She's gone through a lot to save her mom... to save me.>

"Usagi-chan?" the voice made Usagi jump.  Turning she saw Chibi-Usa
looking at her intently, "Do you like being my mommy?"

The lump grew a little bigger as Usagi moved over to the bed.  Taking
Chibi-Usa's small hand Usagi said, "Yes, I do like being your mommy.
You are a very intelligent little girl, very fun also." <A little girl
that I won't get to see for centuries.> "I'm very proud of you."

"Sako-chan isn't mad at me," Chibi-Usa said, "Okaa-san, you were right."
Usagi sniffled a little bit.

<I refuse to cry!> Usagi thought.

"Why are you crying?" Chibi-Usa asked.

"I'm not.  You should get some sleep.  I need to finish this."  Kissing
Chibi-Usa's forehead Usagi moved back to her homework.  She felt the
first tear roll down her face.  <I was so upset that you weren't
related.  Now I find out you are and I'm forced to give you up.  It's
not fair.> Another tear.

Usagi didn't hear Chibi-Usa get out of bed and pad over to her.  <I'm
going to miss Onee-san...  I can talk to her more than I can Mommy.
Mommy is always so busy.  Onee-san...>  Chibi-Usa felt a lump forming,
she could hear Usagi now.  It seemed like she was crying. <Did I doing
something wrong? I don't understand...> Reaching out a small hand
Chibi-Usa said, "Onee-san..."

Usagi turned around, her face a picture of sadness and defeat.  She was
openly crying and she stuttered out, "Wh... what?"

"I love you."

Usagi couldn't contain her emotion any more.  Those three little words
were like flood gates to her emotions.  Usagi collapsed and heaved with
quiet sobs.  <She helps me...> Chibi-Usa thought, reaching out she
wrapped her little arms around Usagi to try and give her comfort.
Chibi-Usa could feel herself starting to cry.

<I didn't do anything wrong... She's sad about me going home.> They
weren't tears of pain or anger just a sense of lose.  <I am losing my
Onee-san...  Even with Mommy...  I'm lonely.>  Chibi-Usa let out a sob
herself, it was followed by another.  Soon she was crying as well.

Usagi was the first to run dry.  Wiping her face she hugged Chibi-Usa
close and whispered, "I know...  I don't want to lose you."  She started
to rock Chibi-Usa back and forth, "I know but I'll just think of you
when I get lonely."

Getting up Usagi shut off the lights and then put Chibi-Usa into bed.
Settling herself in bed as well Usagi kept up the quiet talk as
Chibi-Usa cried herself out and then went to sleep safe in her mother's
arms.

                                  ******

Chibi-Usa was restless.  She was trapped again, deep within her mind.
Reliving the events.  The attack on Sailor Moon, the attack on Sakuya
but this time Sakuya didn't survive.  Then releasing a dark wave of
energy, one that had been chasing her before.  It swallowed up Venus and
Jupiter, devoured Mercury, and threw Mars aside like a rag doll.
Laughter so dark it would block out the sun, Black Lady directed the
final wave at her hated parents and it consumed them...

Bolting awake Chibi-Usa's breathing increased.  She saw a shifting mass
and on closer inspection saw that it was Usagi healthy, safe, and sound,
asleep.  Seeking some comfort Chibi-Usa shifted sides and wiggled her
way in between Usagi's arms.

"It's alright," came Usagi soft voice, "I'm alright... It's just a
nightmare." Chibi-Usa started at the sound then relaxed.  Usagi
continued to talk until Chibi-Usa was back asleep.



Chapter 7

Just after lunch the next day, Usagi, Chibi-Usa, and Mamoru made their
way to the local ice cream parlor.  Mamoru had remembered to bring large
denomination bills to fill the voracious appetites of two Usagis.

As they entered they met up with Yumeno Yumemi coming out.  She stopped
and looked at them for a moment before saying, "Oh Usagi-san, I'm glad
to see you."  Noticing Chibi-Usa she said, "Did you enjoy the painting?"

"Yes, very much.  Thank you," Chibi-Usa said, "Onee-san was very good at
hiding it from me.  I was really surprised."

Yumemi blinked, "That's the most I've heard her talk."  A light blush
touched Chibi-Usa's features.  "You know, I'd like to use you three as
models.  I've been looking for people to pose for a family portrait."

"Oh I'm sorry, Yumemi-san, but Imouto has to go home today," Usagi said,
"But thank you for the offer."

As Yumemi was moving off she said, "Well if she ever comes by for a
stay, look me up.  I'll see what I can do."

                                  ******

"Minako-chan, come in," Makoto said when she answered the door, "I'm
glad you could come for lunch."

"Are any of the others coming?" Minako asked as she removed her shoes.

"No just you, me, and Sako-chan."  Seeing Minako's shocked expression
Makoto said, "I phoned Rei and Ami and they understand my reasons."

"Which are?" Sakuya's voice came from behind Makoto, "Hello,
Minako-chan, maybe she'll tell you."

Seating her guests at the table Makoto remained mute until the food was
served and they had begun eating.  Drawing a breath of courage Makoto
said, "I just asked Minako-chan here because I think we need to work
some things out that we've all been thinking about."

Sakuya looked uncomfortable at this but remained silent.  It was Minako
who was the first to offer denial, "Let's not beat around the bush... As
Commander, it's my responsibility.  That and I should have known better
than to get in front of Sako-chan."

"Look, we aren't going to get anywhere with you beating yourself up!"
Makoto said forcefully, "You made a mistake, we've all done that."

"But Sakuya got hurt!" Minako retorted.

"Which was partially my own fault."  Dead silence was the response of
Sakuya's statement, "I could have pushed you out of the way and got to
cover but I was obsessed with getting a crack at Black Lady.  However
Obaa-san is right you made a mistake and I've had my share of blunders."
Shaking her head ruefully Sakuya said, "This is my profession, danger is
part of it and I accept it.  Most of the Younger Senshi think I'm
loony."

"Aren't you even a little annoyed at me?" Minako demanded irritatedly.

Sakuya chuckled and winced, "Oh... Ah don't do that.  Of course I'm
annoyed at you."  Seeing a hurt expression on Minako's face Sakuya said,
"You're being a jackass and blaming yourself.  I think we all are.  Now
if you don't mind let us turn to more pleasant conversation and this
excellent meal."

                                  ******

"Where are they?" Rei fretted, the others were waiting for Usagi,
Mamoru, and Chibi-Usa to come to the park. "Usagi's always late!"

"Don't worry, they probably went back to Usagi's to pick Chibi-Usa's
stuff up," Ami said.

After a few more minutes they spotted Usagi and Chibi-Usa in the lead
with Mamoru bringing up the rear carrying something.  When they reached
the group an uncomfortable silence fell around them.

"Sako-chan, I wish you didn't have to go," Makoto said quietly.

Sakuya hugged Makoto and said, "I know... Just live in the here and
now."

Mamoru set the carefully wrapped picture down and crouching down pulled
Chibi-Usa into a hug.  "Good-bye, Small Lady."

Chibi-Usa hugged him back and said, "Good-bye, Otou-san," her voice
trembled a little and she squeezed a little harder.  Letting go she
turned to look at Usagi who looked at her.  Chibi-Usa sniffled a little
before running to Usagi.

"I'm going to miss you, Onee-san!" Chibi-Usa said as she started to
softly cry, "I wish I could stay."

Hugging Chibi-Usa close Usagi said, "Just think Chibi-Usa you're going
to see your mommy in a few minutes.  I have to wait almost a thousand
years to see you again."

"Small Lady, we should go," Sakuya said.  Usagi set Chibi-Usa down who
walked over to the painting Usagi had given her.  Picking it up was a
bit of a struggle but she managed.

"Onee-san... I want you to keep this," Chibi-Usa said showing Usagi the
painting.

"Oh Chibi-Usa I can't... I gave that to you for a present," Usagi said.
<Thank you for offering it though,> Usagi thought, <I will miss you.>

"Please...Mommy..." Chibi-Usa said. She let her eyes take on the sad
puppy dog effect and stared into Usagi's.

Usagi reached out and took the painting with great reverence, "Thank
you, Imouto... Musume." <I will look at it and remember my little girl
every time I'm lonely.>

                                  ******

Younger Jupiter walked along watching Chibi-Usa run up ahead.  The
pristine Crystal Tokyo was sparkling in the distance.  <It's good to be
home,> Sakuya thought, <This is where I belong... This is where Small
Lady belongs...>

As they reached the top of the hill she could see a group headed by the
King and Queen waiting for them.  Chibi-Usa ran up and curtsied to her
parents.  Younger Jupiter bowed gracefully, in a fuku there wasn't
enough material to curtsy properly.

"Usagi `Small Lady' Serenity is here!" Chibi-Usa announced.  Then she
looked up into her parents' eyes and she couldn't contain her joy.
Dashing forward she cried out, "Mommy! Daddy!"

Neo-Queen Serenity swept her daughter up into a hug and held her close,
"You did very well in the past, Small Lady."

"I've missed you so much," Chibi-Usa cried into her mother, "I was so
scared for you."

"And you saved me." Neo-Queen Serenity shot Younger Jupiter a look of
thanks and moved off trailed by King Endymion, Sailor Mercury, and
Sailor Mars.

"You did rather well, Younger Jupiter," Sailor Venus said.

"Thank you, Commander," Younger Jupiter replied stiffly.

Sailor Jupiter had no intention of keeping up the formalities.  Walking
up she said, "I'm glad to see you're alright.  Know I get to complete
the job I started a thousand years ago."

"What?" Younger Jupiter asked.

"You're still healing... I'm going to mother you for a little while
longer," Jupiter said, "And don't try that work thing.  Venus has been
nice enough to place you on indefinite leave until you're healed."

Younger Jupiter shot Venus a nasty look before saying, "I won't protest
on one condition."

"What's that, Sako-chan?" Venus asked.

"You don't cook."

The End of
Tales of Younger Jupiter


Written by :

Candle Light Author (dhelm@log.on.ca) and
"Tuxedo" Will (wwolfshohl@logicon.com)


Authors' Afterwards:

Credits -
     Naoko Takeuchi and Kodansha for creating Sailor Moon
     John Biles and Jeffery Hosmer for first developing Younger Senshi.
     Mark Latus for Younger Jupiter's computer "RH".
     "Tuxedo" Will for the original story kernel that got this thing
     going.

Special Thanks -
     Will Wolfshohl for editing and eventually admitting to
     co-authoring.  Also for getting me hooked onto Sailor Moon
     Fanfiction.

     "Bubba" for his technical support at LogON my ISP.

Much thanks and praise to our Beta Readers -
     Greywolf, Jendra, and Ethan.

And last but certainly not least -
     To you, the reader, especially those that C&C constructively.  You
     make it worth while.

Future Projects -

     C-Ux2: I can't tell you anything about this except I'm writing it
     with "Tuxedo" Will.

     ACS: By "Tuxedo" Will and Greywolf, I'm editing.

     Two Senshi in Scotland:  A story with Ben Harrison from my Sailor
     Moon Expanded (SME) Project group.

     Path to Succession:  A political SME story set during Silver
     Millennium time.

     Those are the ones I know about... or care to release. ^_^

Homepages :

"Tuxedo" Will's Fanfiction Archive - North American Host
     http://log.on.ca/users/helm/anime/index.htm
Sako-chan's Homepage
(Who says a fanfiction character can't have a homepage?)
     http://log.on.ca/users/helm/sako/sakohome.htm
     sako@log.on.ca (Email address)