Bishoujo Senshi Sailormoon:  Messiah

Episode One:  The Game Begins.  The Guardian of the White Moon Awakens!     

 

* * * * * * * *

 

            Bright red eyes glistened as crystalline tears spilled down the young woman’s ivory cheeks.  Dark, crimson blood streamed from the large gash in the back of her head and the honey-gold strands clumped together.  The stench of burning flesh overwhelmed her as her knees gave out beneath her.  “My people” she gasped, digging her fingers into the dirt and ash. 

 

            “Poor, poor Persephone.” A deceptively gentle voice cooed over the roaring flames, “Your perfect Kingdom is nothing more than a pile of dust and corpses.”  She felt her stomach heave as he placed an ice-cold hand on her trembling shoulder.  “I trusted you, Thanatos.” She spat venomously, “Why would you do this?  I thought you loved me!”  She choked back a sob, “For the god’s sake, it was our wedding night!”

 

            She looked into his silver eyes, void of any life.  He flashed a perfect smile.  Oh how much she had loved that smile!  What once seemed so warm and loving now was sinister and cruel, “That’s the way the game is played.” He sang, his smile widening as he tightened his grip on her.  “I’ve won and now I’m going to collect my prize.”

 

            The once great empress opened her mouth to scream when his lips clamped over hers.  Hot, scorching acid burnt her mouth as the dark liquid oozed down her throat.  He smiled wickedly at her as he pulled her to him. 

 

            “Please…”she struggled for breath, her body burning like it was being ripped apart from the inside, “I don’t wish to die.”

 

            “Hush.” He soothed gently stroking her hair while he held her in his lap, “I would never kill my beloved wife.”  He held her closely against his chest as her body started convulsing and her eyes rolled to the back of her head.  He waited until the only movement was the shallow rise and fall of her chest. 

 

He tore his eyes from his bride for a moment to appraise his handy work.  It had been much quicker than before, but it was still a bit messy.  He would have to improve upon that for the next time.  Lifting the light body of his newest bride, he simply vanished.  His wives were waiting for him and there were many more games that he must prepare them for.

 

* * * * * * * *

 

            Queen Selenity giggled playfully as she twirled in her wrinkled, white gown.  Her disheveled hair was loose instead of the traditional style of the royal family.  She reached over to the vanity and reached for the wine bottle.  Bringing the bottle to the lips and tipped the rose hued liquor down her throat.  Some of the wine trickled down her chin and stained her gown.  “Ooops.”  She snickered while she flopped onto the bed.  She began to laugh hysterically as more wine splashed onto the pale sheets.

 

            There was a soft knock on the door and Selenity smothered her laughter against one of the pink pillows.  King Trent entered their bedchambers with dread.  She looked up from the pillows and flashed an innocent smile.  “Usa-chan, why tonight?” he sighed, “Aya has worked so hard on this exhibition, Shizuki would be so upset if you ruined it!”

 

            The Queen shrugged and stumbled over to her husband, leaning into his chest, “Who cares what she thinks?” she sneered, “Ungrateful brat.” 

 

            “Usa!”  Trent was shocked; his wife had always adored their child despite Shizuki’s cold shoulder towards her, “Listen to yourself!”  Selenity snorted and pulled away from him, taking another drink of wine.  “That does it.” Trent shook his head firmly; “I will not allow you to embarrass yourself and your family at Aya’s exhibition tonight.”  He turned sharply and strode out of the room, the door slammed behind him and the key turned.  He would keep her locked in the room for the rest of the night.

 

            He hates you.  They all hate you.  They have good reason to.

 

            Selenity sniffed back her tears, “Your right.” She stated firmly, not aware of how strange it was to speak to the air.  She finished the last of the wine and tossed the empty bottle against the wall, watching it shatter.

 

            They have no use for you.  You’ve brought them shame; you’ve spilled innocent blood. 

            Selenity gazed at her self in the mirror and smiled weakly. It is time to pay for your crimes.  The smile on the Queen’s face fell and her features paled greatly.  As hot tears splashed against the marble floor, the Queen thought about the voices.  She had tried everything to make them stop, but there was no cure.  So, she simply accepted them.  She found their words were harsh but true…and she couldn’t stand that.  Tonight, she would show them all; she would finally escape their harsh gaze.  Tossing her hair over her shoulder she sauntered towards the shower to get cleaned up for her appearance tonight. 

 

* * * * * * * *

 

            Morino Aya was incredibly nervous as she glanced at herself in the mirror for the fifth time.  Today had been a horrific day.  It was the last day of school before break and she had spent most of the day dreading this evening while the other students chatted excitedly about their vacation.  “What are your plans for the break, Aya-san?” one girl giggled excitedly.  I don’t have any plans, I’m not sure I’m going to survive my exhibition.

 

            She wasn’t sure why she had let her mother talk her into this.  Kasumi had always pushed her daughters to excel and perhaps this time she was pushing Aya to hard.  It hadn’t been Aya’s dream to display her work in this fashion until her mother practically insisted.  Now Aya was stuck with the nerve-racking duty of organizing a party that the Royal family had so graciously allowed her to hold in their ballroom, insisting that it be open to the entire capital.  “How do I get myself into these messes.” She muttered, smoothing down a crease in her black dress.              

 

            Sitting at the edge of the bed, she slipped on a pair of black, knee-length boots.  She stood again and gave herself another quick assessment, tousling her hair dark blue before she sprinted down the stairs. 

 

            Kasumi and Ryuu were waiting by the door with her older sister Tomoe.  “You look beautiful.” She commented, “But something is missing.” She held out a tiny box, wrapped in shinny ice-blue paper. 

 

            Aya carefully pulled off the paper and opened the box.  She blushed slightly and a small tear gathered in the corner of her eye, “It’s magnificent!” she gasped as she pulled out the necklace.  It was a stunning crystal snowflake that dangled from a silver chain.  “Help me put it on!”

           

            Aya turned around as Tomoe clasped the chain behind her.  “This is a special night for you, Aya.” She whispered, “I want you to know that I’m so proud of you.”  The two shared a warm embrace that Kasumi could only be jealous of. 

 

            Upstairs, a door slammed and tiny footfalls could be heard trudging down the stairs.  Aya’s younger sister appeared at the bottom of the stairs and frowns of disapproval fell upon her.  She wore a pair jeans and a dark green halter top.“Utako, you are not wearing that to your sister’s exhibition.”  Ryuu’s voice was firm and disapproving.

 

            “I’m not going to that stupid exhibition.” She replied haughtily, “I’m going over to Kaya’s house to hang out.” 

 

            “No you are not!” Kasumi snapped coldly, “Now march your butt back upstairs and change into that new dress I bought you.”  Utako crossed her arms and pouted her lips, “But mom, it’ll be sooooo boring!  None of the cute, normal guys will be there!”  Kasumi placed her hands on her hips, “No buts.” She warned, “I will not tolerate your selfish whining.  Now change!”

 

            Utako rolled her eyes and stormed back up the stairs, “Freaks.” She muttered under her breath.  “I’m not deaf!” Kasumi snarled after her and Utako ran the rest of the way to her room and quickly threw on a dark green dress and a pair of matching shoes.  Running her hands through her shoulder-length, dark green hair, maybe there would be some cute boys there.  Downstairs, Aya leaned against the wall:  tonight was going to be a disaster.

 

* * * * * * * *

 

            Hitomi hated crowds.  Whenever she was among a large group of people, she could feel their eyes on her; she could hear their whispers.  Look at that freak!  What’s she doing here?  Of course, her mother loved a party and scolded her daughter for her paranoia.  Hitomi wandered away from the people and studied a magnificent sculpture of a woman, meant to represent the Queens of the past millenniums.  She sipped her punch and allowed herself to smile.           

           

            A cold hand clutched her heart and stopped her breath.  Her head began to spin and the cup in her hands dropped to the floor and the shatter of porcelain echoed through the hall.  The statue began to crack and then shatter in front of Hitomi’s eyes, the marble pieces thrown across the hall.  Hitomi swallowed a scream and screwed her eyes shut.  “It’s just a dream, it isn’t real.”  Taking a deep breath, Hitomi opened one eye.  Seeing that the statue was still intact, she bent down to pick up the pieces of her teacup.  Hitomi had to stifle another scream when a gentle hand touched her shoulder.

 

            “Hitomi-san?”  Aya’s soft voice had startled her.  Hitomi turned her red eyes towards Aya.  “I thought that was you!” she exclaimed.  “I haven’t seen you for such a long time!” 

 

Hitomi forced her face to be as stone as a statue.  “I’ve been busy.” She replied coldly.  Aya didn’t flinch; she had grown accustomed to Hitomi’s icy behavior.  “I see.” She replied, still smiling, “I was hoping you would come with your mother.” She latched onto Hitomi’s hand “I made something for you.”  She pulled Hitomi towards an empty room where she had been keeping all of her supplies.  She grabbed a black bag and pulled out a beautiful porcelain cat.  It was pristine white with delicately hand painted features. 

 

Aya was certain she saw a flash of something across Hitomi’s face, but it lasted only a moment.  Her stony demeanor returned, “Thank you.” She responded flatly.  A high-pitched giggling interrupted them as Utako led in a very attractive and much older boy into the room.  The young girl’s cheerful appearance vanished when she saw her older sister.  “What are you doing?” she sneered, the boy gave the two girls a wide grin, “Hey babes.”

 

Aya narrowed her eyes, “What are you doing?” she retorted, “Mother will kill you when she hears about this.”  Utako scowled at her.  “Hey, I don’t want to cause any problems.” The young man slurred, stumbling out of the room.  Aya’s eyes widened, “He was DRUNK!” she shouted, “What about you?”

 

Utako frowned, “Oh pah-lease!” She shifted her gaze towards Hitomi and studied her, noticing her discomfort under her gaze.  “Aren’t you that girl with the weird visions?" She sneered.  She didn’t wait for a response, “Weird.  But I guess you blend in with the rest of the freaks here.”  She called over her shoulder as she went back to the party.

 

“Utako!” Aya shrieked.  She stormed after her sister without even bothering to apologize to Hitomi. 

 

Clutching her gift to her chest, Hitomi calmly exited the room.  She hurried past her mother and father, who were too busy socializing to hear their daughter tell them she would meet them at home.  Outside the palace, Hitomi wept freely.  After all of these years, she still could not stop the tears.

 

 

* * * * * * * *

 

            Shizuki stepped away from the crowds for a moment to survey the crowds. She easily spotted the three Morino sisters, who seemed to be arguing viciously.  No doubt Utako had started the entire mess.  She caught a glimpse of Aaron and Chiharu Hades, both appearing quite bored until Chiharu met her gaze and smiled ever so slightly.  Shizuki waved in return and finally settled her eyes on her father.  She was pleased to see him standing alone, meaning he had locked his wife in their chambers for the entire evening.  Satisfied, Shizuki returned to the crowd in search of Chiharu. 

 

            Along the way, she was able to catch snippets of the Morino’s arguments.  “What were you thinking?" Tomoe’s usually calm and collective demeanor had been cast aside as she scolded her sister.  “I was bored!”  The high-pitched whine could have only come from Utako.  Shizuki smiled and was thankful that she was an only child. 

 

            “Chiharu-san!” Shizuki called out to her best friend.  She wasn’t surprised to see that Aaron had left his sister’s side to flirt with some younger girls across the halls.  The slightly younger girl casually tossed her black hair aside and flashed a warm smile to the princess.  “Your hair looks nice down.” Shizuki commented and a slight blush spread across the bridge of Chiharu’s nose and her mauve eyes flashed.  Normally, Chiharu wore her hair up in a tight bun, which made her look older and more intimidating than she really was.  

 

            While being amazingly mature for her age, Chiharu lacked social skills and had a tendency to ward off any potential friends.  She had an inclination to be a bit over bearing and bossy, though she had no real intention of doing so.  She had finally found a kindred soul in Shizuki.  Someone who was at her level and could understand what she meant without feeling insulted. 

 

            “Thank you.” She muttered softly, “Aaron suggested that I try something new for a change.”  Shizuki chuckled lightly as she glanced at Chiharu’s older brother.  He certainly knew how to work his magic on young women.  There was an ever-growing crowd surrounding him, including Utako.  It never ceased to amaze her how two siblings could be so different and still remain so close.  She knew that Aaron would kill to protect his younger sister and she had no doubt that Chiharu would do the same for him.

 

            The two went across the room, appraising Aya’s work and ignoring the hustle of the people behind them.  It took a blood-curdling scream to tear their eyes away from one of the paintings—just in time to see one of the patrons go flying across the room, out one of the open windows and landing in the hedging.  “I must be seeing things.” Chiharu stammered as she blinked a few times. 

 

            A few members of the crowd stepped outside to help the young man out of the bushes.  Shizuki held her breath as a cold wave a dread swept through her body and for one crystal-clear moment she felt a need to protect these people from the unseen danger.  The room and become deathly quiet as the King stepped forward to assess the damage.  Sensing that danger had not passed, Shizuki’s eyes darted across the room looking for the source of the commotion. 

 

            Settling her eyes on the marble statue that Hitomi had been studying earlier, another shiver crept up her spine.  She watched in blank horror as the statue began to crack and then suddenly explode, sending shards of marble in all directions.  Mass chaos set upon the room as people ran frantically towards the nearest exists, which slammed shut at once.

 

            “Why in such a hurry?” A soft, almost seductive voice was somehow heard over the terrified cries of the patrons.  The room grew silent, almost as if some dark omnipotent being had willed it so.  Shizuki felt her throat tighten as stepped closer to the statue, brushing off fragments of marble from her hair and face.  She winced and drew her hand away from her face and noticed the small, crimson stain.  “I do so love a good party.” The voice drawled from overhead.  Shizuki turned her head towards the staircase and saw the intruder.

 

            She was a stunningly beautiful woman with piercing steel-blue eyes and pure white hair that just barely brushed the red carpet of the staircase.  She wore a seductive cat suit that matched her eyes perfectly.  Around her left wrist was a gold band with white gems.  The belt around her waist matched the bracelet, as did the collar around her neck.  Shizuki felt her stomach flip-flop as the young woman slowly glided down the stairs and presented herself before King Trent.

 

            Bowing slightly, “It is a pleasure to finally meet you, your majesty.” She spit out the last words with such malice that a few angered cries could be heard across the hall.  “My master sends his greetings.” She continued indifferently, “He regrets not being present himself, but he will gladly attend your funeral.”

 

            Shizuki felt her legs beneath her move as she sprinted across the room.  The woman pulled out a jagged silver dagger.  “Move!” Shizuki shrieked, though her voice seemed so distant that she wasn’t sure anyone heard.  The dagger was raised and Shizuki threw herself at the assailant.  The King had already managed to move away from the blade and watched in horror as his daughter came to his rescue. 

 

            “Stupid girl.” The attacker hissed, “You need not worry, I came to take your life as well.”  Shizuki poised herself between her father and the stranger, she felt another rush of adrenaline and lashed out at her again.  Managing to knock the intruder to the ground, her nails cutting into her cold flesh.    

 

            The woman lightly pressed her thin fingers against her cheek and pulled them back, rubbing the dark liquid between her thumb and index finger.  She looked rather disgusted as she rose to her feet, trembling ever so slightly.  “No one has ever done that to me.” she snarled, her face twisted in such horrible rage that Shizuki couldn’t remember why she had once considered her beautiful.  “I will make sure you die a very painful death.” She vowed while advancing on Shizuki.

 

            Shizuki stood her ground and prepared for the next attack, but the royal guards had taken matters into their own hands.  She stumbled towards her father thinking the guards could handle the situation on their own.  She was surprised as her father firmly grabbed her arm and violently pulled her out of the room.  “Do not ask any questions!”  He hissed as stopped in front of a tiny white marble door.  Funny, she had never noticed that door before.  Screams echoed from the halls, the guards were having little luck against the attacker.  The King pressed his fingers against the door and it slid open.  Bending down, he entered the room and pulled Shizuki after him. 

 

            The room was lit in a radiant silver light and it took Shizuki a moment to realize that the light didn’t come from a fixture.  In the center of the room was the Illusion Silver Crystal.  “We hid the crystal here after your mother fell ill.”  His voice was shaking with the final words, but Shizuki didn’t flinch.  “You must take it now.” He gently pushed her closer, “Embrace your destiny.”

 

            Shizuki tentatively reached out and her fingers wrapped around the warm stone and a wave of pure light embraced her.  She saw glimpses of the past, present, and the future flash and suddenly vanish before she could grasp them.  Through it all, words fell from her lips “Moon Galactic Power, make-up!”

 

* * * * * * * *

 

            Chiharu huddled in the farthest corner, brushing the loose strands of hair from her face as she watched the scene unfold.  The attacker stood in the center of the room, the royal guard scattered on the floor at her feet.  Holding her breath, she prayed that the woman wouldn’t turn her attention to the bystanders.  “Is there anyone here who can offer me a challenge?”  The woman’s deep, cold voice reverberated around the silent room, her steely eyes slowly scanning the crowd.

 

            “I accept your challenge!”  Chiharu’s head snapped up towards the staircase.  At the top was a beautiful young woman…a sailor senshi.  She was dressed in sky blue and pale yellow.  In one of her gloved hands, she held a tall, silver staff.  On the top, was an ornate crescent moon; roses were lightly sketched in the gold moon.  Below the moon was a pair of white angel wings.  Her beautiful blue eyes were warm and determined as she stood proudly, “I am the defender of all that is pure and good, the champion of justice and guardian of the white moon!  I am Cosmic Sailormoon, and on behalf of the moon I will punish you!”

 

            Chiharu’s breath caught in her throat, this heroine was an angel!  The assailant’s face twisted in an ugly sneer “Is this when I start shaking with fear?” she leered, “I’m hardly intimidated by a girl in a mini-skirt!”

 

            Sailormoon’s face remained smooth as she calmly took a step down, and another and another—slowly descending down the stairs.  It was apparent the dark woman was not a patient person.  She raised her hand-palm aimed directly at Sailormoon-and let a cold blast of energy.  Chiharu wished she could close her eyes, but they stayed fixated on the battle.  She swallowed a terrified scream as Sailormoon gracefully leapt out of the blast trajectory and landed a few feet in front of the invader.  She cast a stern gaze on her enemy “You shall terrorize the innocent no more.”  She raised her staff above her head and began to chant “Divine moonlight” As the words filled the room, swirls of yellow, blue and white lights swirled from the floor and traveled up her body to the staff, and she cried the last word, “SHATTER!”  Slamming the staff on the marble floor, the pent of energy was launched towards her foe, who tried to dodge the onslaught, but she wasn’t fast enough.  When the light cleared, it seemed the woman had been eradicated.

 

            Cries of joy and relief sounded through the hall as loved ones reunited.  Chiharu rose to her feet, gazing at the breathtaking savior.  Sailormoon’s eyes traveled over the room and momentarily rested on her.  Chiharu felt her heart leap as a gentle smile crossed the angel’s face.  Then the young woman hurried out the doors and vanished into the bright moonlight, taking Chiharu’s heart with her.

 

* * * * * * * *

 

            Thanatos ran his fingers across the stone case that held his newest bride.  Inside, she rested while her mind and soul were being twisted and molded to fit his game.  He licked his lips; the taste of his recent victory still there and the scent of another soon to come filled the air.  Eris would soon return and report the status of the Sol System’s security and the blood of the King and the royal brat.  A loud cough and the sound of shuffling behind him caused him to turn with a wide smile on his pale features.  The smile vanished at the sight before him.

           

            She stood before him, her white hair disheveled and her suit was torn and bloody. Her eyes did not meet him and he knew why, “What happened, Eris.” He snapped impatiently, “And do not tell me you left a battle with such shame on your face.”

 

            A red hue crossed Eris’ usually pallor visage.  “Forgive me, husband.” She added the last words, hoping to soften his displeasure, “They have a powerful guardian who I underestimated.”  Thanatos pursed his lips and slit his eyes in fury when she dared to look at him, “I could have beaten her easily, but she got a cheap shot.  I swear it!”

 

            “I’m hardly convinced.” He stated coldly while he turned his back to her, “I cannot have this, Eris.  How can I conquer this grand kingdom if my finest warrior can’t weaken their defenses?”

 

            The young woman shook her head firmly, “I promise you, my lord.  I can defeat her and you can continue with your plan to seduce the Queen.”  Thanatos let a small smirk grace his features.  “What was this guardian’s name?” he asked.

 

            “She called herself Cosmic Sailormoon.”

 

            The dark lord frowned, “A sailor senshi.  I wondered when we would cross one of them.”  He ran his fingers through his jet-black hair.  “It looks like we have our hands full.  I can’t take any chances.  While I am busy winning the Queen’s heart, I shall have Persephone prove her loyalty to me by finishing your job and destroying Sailormoon as well.”

 

            Eris stiffened, “You can’t be serious!” she exclaimed, every word dripping with jealousy, “I can assassinate the king and his brat and I can eliminate that twit Sailormoon!”

 

            Thanatos let out a harsh laugh; “I do not doubt you, dearest.”  He turned and pulled his first wife into his arms.  “But I have to test Persephone.”  He pressed her against him, burying his fingers in her hair, “You cannot be jealous of her or Atlanta, or the Queen Selenity.  It will interfere with my game and if you truly loved me then you would support me.”

 

            Eris buried her face in his neck, “I wish for nothing more than to make you happy.” She breathed, “I will do anything you ask of me and I will not stand in your way of greatness.”

 

            “That’s my girl.”  Thanatos hefted her in his arms, “Why don’t you remind me of your loyalty tonight.”  Eris flashed a mischievous smile, “It would be my pleasure.” 

 

* * * * * * * *

 

            Selenity stepped gracefully out of the bedchamber, and slid quietly down the halls.  The guards had all vanished for some strange reason, but it did not concern the Queen.  She was dressed in the traditional white gown, reminiscent of the Silver Millennium.  She had taken great care when applying her make up and jewelry.  She chose to leave her hair down, the waves trailing behind her.  She was simply breathtaking. 

 

            Turning towards the great hall, she could hear the guests crying, though she could hardly imagine why.  No one will cry for you.  Looking below her she saw her husband and daughter comforting the guests while the royal doctor was tending to the injured.  There was no twinge of concern or sympathy because soon all her pain and anguish would end. 

 

            Stepping over the railing, she carefully balanced herself and leaned over.  She closed her eyes, inhaled and let go.

 

            A wave of peace came over her as she plummeted downwards.  The rush of air around her made her deaf to the horrified scream from her daughter.

 

* * * * * * * *