Out of the Darkness and Into the Light --- Written by Selena (s2jemeko@atlas.vcu.edu). http://www.geocities.com/selena_moongoddess ---The characters, name, and places in Sailor Moon both the manga and the anime, belong to Naoko Takeuchi, Kodansha Comics, DIC, and Mixx. Chapter 10 ******************************* Venus stands a good 10 meters or so away from Kunzite. Biting on her lower lip, she eyes him carefully before silently making her way toward him. His face turned away, Kunzite leans over the rail of the balcony and tilts his head up to peer at Earth. 'How strange it feels to look up at it.' He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. 'The air...it's...not quite right - as though...something is missing. There's no scent of the trees, no flower blossoms, no clear freshness after summer rain. It's cold, sterile, and uninviting.' He thinks, decidedly. Suddenly feeling as though he is being watched, his eyes fly open and he whips around. Venus pauses momentarily under the intense glare of his gray eyes. 'Maybe I shouldn't... Gods! I don't know what to do! Especially after what happened tonight. He probably doesn't even want to see me.' Clearing her throat she manages a soft smile and mechanically her legs move to stand next to him. She places her hands on the rail to support her weight and stands on her tiptoes to look up at Earth. After a long moment of silence, she takes a deep breath and glances over at him. His gaze momentarily fixed back on the blue orb above, she relaxes a bit and studies his features. 'I'm just going to have trust him.' She muses trying to convince herself. 'There is no other way. Darien *has* to stay here!' "I see why you want to go back. It must be a very beautiful place." Mina says, finally breaking the silence but unable to knock down the wall between them. Not even looking at her, Kunzite nods coldly in response. Venus's brows furrow and she stares at his shiny black boots. ' Hmm...This is going to be harder than I thought. He's colder than Mercury's ice and good at it too. Beating around the bush just isn't going to cut it. He's just like Darien used to be...only I'm not Selena.' Kunzite suddenly turns to her, his eyes hard and determined. "My Lady, I take it you have something to say to me?" Catching her of guard, she momentarily looses all thought. "Uh...oh...Yes... he he." Her face turns serious and she stares to fidget under his intense eyes. Taking courage, she straitens and resolutely continues. "There is much I have to say. But most of all, I want to know one thing. What do *you* intend to do? We desperately need your help - all of yours!" Kunzite's eyes widen in outrage and the muscles in his face constrict. He walks away from the rail and whips around, his cape waving behind him. Her turns away from her, but Mina places a firm hand on his arm. "I must know." He whips back around. "Fine!" He shouts, losing all control of his temper. "Help? You dare to ask for help?! We have been at war for well over 20 years! One in which the Moon Kingdom *refused* to take sides! My people are dying mercilessly - nothing but pawns in a struggle for power. I saw both my parents blown into oblivion right before my eyes!" He takes a deep breath to calm his raging emotions and finds himself amazed at how much better he feels having finally gotten it off his chest and told *someone.* In a clear, level voice he continues. "We have a chance to fix things - to heal their wounds and make up for what is lost. There is no way we can end this without the prince." He looks directly into her eyes. "He is the one thread that can unite Earth and stop this war. I'm not about to let *anything* get in the way of that - not even your princess. She could easily destroy him with a flick of her wrist if she chooses. Lady Venus, I believe love exists and is a credit to those who can afford to have it and use it. But I have seen too much. It is time Demando pays for what he has done! Endymion will not be able to do that as long as your princess is infected with the disease of darkness!" Hot tears threaten to fall from Venus's eyes. "I'm sorry...for what you had to go through, but if you think you're people are the only ones who've suffered...then you are a fool!" She cries. "Earth may be cleansed of this evil for a time, but other worlds have not been so fortunate. More is needed to stop this evil from terrorizing the ones left standing. My home fell in a matter of days... The darkness...it came so fast..." She murmurs, still trying to comprehend what happened. "From the castle, I heard everyone screaming. The foam of the Yellow Sea soon turned red with blood. My mother sent me here to save me. That was the last I saw of her and my home." She cries softly. "All of my people are gone and there is absolutely nothing I can do about it. If I could, I would destroy every last one of Metallia's hoards. But I know that I can't do it alone. There is nothing that is going to take away the past. It is done. Finished. And the present is even worse. All we have left is the future. Blame the Queen if you wish. Hate me too if it pleases you. Leave if you must. But know this, if you turn your back now, you will be no better. When the Moon falls, eventually, so will Earth." Venus's eyes glow defiantly and she stands proud and tall, orange ribbons flying up to meet blowing strands of her long, blonde hair. Kunzite leans back against the railing, and stares at the ground. After a few moments he slowly approaches Venus and much to her surprise, kneels before her. Mina's eyes like saucers, he takes her hand and kisses it. Looking up at her, he whispers, "You truly are a great lady, Venus - determined and capable. I wish I had your strength and confidence." Blushing madly and feeling all too awkward, she kneels with him. He sighs and gazes back up at Earth. "But I'm afraid that' impossible." Feeling suddenly calm and courageous, she takes his large, tanned hand in hers and a beautiful smile crosses her features as she tentatively asks, "Do you trust me?" Mina's bright yellow eyes shine with sincerity and hope. Unable to avert her penetrating gaze, he narrows his own eyes and after a moment, hesitantly nods. "I believe so." Venus closes her eyes. Opening them again, she says quietly, "You lie." But before he can argue she continues with a smile. "But you want to trust me and that's enough for now." 'This will work. It has to!' With a nod she stands, her hand still locked within his own. "Come with me." Silently he consents, standing with her. Venus leads him through the main gardens, past the outer edges of a large courtyard, and into a dark, solitary part of the palace where overgrown vines have long since consumed the walls. On the far side, two massive doors, marked with the symbol of the Venusian System, stand between eight columns with twisted shafts and figures of the gods carved in their capitals. Placing her left hand in the center of the symbol, she commands, "Open..." Immediately they obey her command. Creaking noisily, the heavy doors slowly open to reveal a pitch-black, empty room. Venus steps inside, but Kunzite remains outside, eyeing the structure suspiciously. "It's all right. This was once the home of the Venusian Consulate. Since the destruction of my home, these doors have remained closed and its walls silent." Mina says sadly, sounding distant and far away. Her eyes lock with his and seem to glow, imploring and begging him to follow. Almost in a trance and seemingly unaware of his actions, he steps up and walks through the doors. Mina lets out the breath she was holding and says a silent prayer. 'Thank you. Now, I know I have the strength to do this.' As they walk away from the entrance, the light shining from the glow of Earth becomes no more that a faint glimmer. Finally, Venus stops and they both kneel on the cold tiles of the floor. With a wave of her hand the doors shut. Kunzite jumps in spite of himself and gulps, a lump forming in the back of his throat. He can't explain why, but he feels as though everything is about to change. Suddenly, an orange aura surrounds Mina and she closes her eyes. An intricate dress of silk and ribbons forms on her body. Holding out her hands, palms facing up, she whispers an ancient phrase of a language unspoken. A yellow light shines in her hands and a glowing crystal appears, hovering a meter above them. Kunzite's eyes widen and he stares at it in disbelief. "That's..." She places her index finger over his lips and nods. Venus takes both of his hands in hers, but Kunzite abruptly stands, shaking his head. "No. You don't have to do this. It isn't right." "It is my decision to make. Even now, you don't believe in *their* power. Only as one will they be able to fight this evil. You can't help them unless you understand. And...the only way to know...is to actually feel it." His gray eyes widen as he realizes what she is about to do. He shakes his head and kneels in front of her. "Why me?" He asks bewildered. She looks deep into his eyes and tenderly touches his cheek. "I trust you." She takes his hand in hers and places a soft butterfly kiss on his lips. He closes his eyes as she whispers, her voice soothing and hypnotic. "You only need to open your heart..." Closing her own eyes, a scintillating light bursts from her crystal causing her head to fly back from the force of its power. Kunzite shudders, nearly falling as the power hits him. Images flash through his mind and his body feels as though it is on fire. Waves of intense emotion crash against his being. Blinding silver and gold light swirls around him. A bright ball of white light floats in its wake. He reaches out to touch it, but cries out in pain, the intensity burning his hands. Trembling violently, his eyes fly open. Before him Venus glows brightly, her skin giving off a majestic glow and her hair flying above her head. Finally releasing the power harnessed by her crystal, the blinding light dies down to a faint glimmer. Out of breath and weak, they collapse onto the floor. With much effort, Mina turns her head. Still holding his hand, she says ominously, "What you saw and felt was only a small fraction. Had you seen it all, it would have killed you." Staring into her eyes, he replies. "I will never doubt again." ***************************** Queen Serenity wearily walks the edge of a large crystal terrace. Stopping, she turns and places her hand on the railing. Tears fall from her china-blue eyes. A tall woman with tan skin and a long, black dress silently approaches. She takes the Queen's hand in her own and smiles warmly. "Pluto, I know that I've never directly asked for your advice before, but I desperately need it. And I have nowhere else to turn. Please help me. I'm so frightened." She cries, her voice barely above a whisper and her limbs trembling. Pluto looks down sadly and sighs. "You're not alone." Serenity looks up in shock. "What?" Pluto huffs as her eyes begin to water as well. "I can't see everything. I don't know what the future holds in store. I only see bits and pieces." She looks away and stares up at Earth. "What scares me most, is the vast majority that I don't have access to." Her eyes sad and tone forlorn, she shakes her head at the Queen. "Our choices are never easy. We both worry for our children." Pluto smiles and wipes away her tears with her black glove. "I did not give birth to him, but the short time he was with me, was enough to make me love him for an eternity. He'll always be my prince. I thought I could protect him from whatever danger lay ahead. But I was foolish. You see, my Queen, there was something I had failed to realize until now." She turns to Serenity and points across the courtyard to an open window of Selenity's room. "Come with me." Together they walk through winding hallways and corridors until they reach the princess's door. A large crescent decorates it's front. Pluto turns the handle and they step inside. Princess Selenity sleeps upon a large white bed, surrounded by sheer curtains. Holding her hand, Endymion sits in a nearby chair, deep in slumber. Gazing at their sleeping forms, Pluto continues. "We both fear the future because we cannot control it. Unplanned situations and events arise that we can do nothing about." Queen Serenity shakes her head. "If what you say is true, then why am I here - if not to mold this existence into something better?" "We each have a place in the stream of time. For some it is small, but for you it is very different. As the bearer of the Silver Crystal, peace is yours to guard and protect. Selenity will also bear that responsibility - as is the nature of things. However, her path differs from yours, my Queen. It will be what she chooses. You can influence her and guide her - but no more. You know that." The princess restlessly turns from side to side upon her bed and moans incoherently. Tears fall unheeded from the Queen's eyes as she watches her. "But can she make that decision?! She's not well. I've been patient and waited, but she's not getting better. I love her so much and I don't want to loose her! As the guardian of peace I cannot let that happen. She is the future. If evil consumes her, she will sentence all to certain death! " Pointing to the princess, Pluto hugs the Queen forcefully. "Look at her. Even now she fights. Her mind may have been poisoned, yes, but her heart is strong. The battle rages from within. Only when she can face her true inner feelings, will she be able to choose what she believes in." Serenity shakes her head. "She can't do it alone!" "Pluto points to the form sleeping in the chair nearby. "She will never be alone. They will fight together and win. I am sure of it!" ***************************** Darien awakens from a gentle shaking of his shoulders. His eyes focus upon two inquisitive red eyes. "Rei." "There is a formal meal in the banquet hall in an hour." She whispers. "Jadeite told me that the Queen requested your presence." Rubbing his soar neck, he nods gratefully. "Thank you, but..." He looks at Selena's sleeping form. "I don't think I should leave her." "Luna said that she would watch over the princess. Come on, you have to eat something." She places her hands on her hips and taps her foot. "We don't need two sick people on our hands!" He smiles, having missed her fiery temper. He stands and bows. "As always, Lady Mars." She giggles in response, and takes his arm. "I've missed telling you what to do. It isn't any fun without someone to order about." Then her voice turns serious. "I used to tease Selena. Sometimes...I think maybe this is my fault." "No, Rei. This is something much more serious." After a last forlorn look at their princess, Darien and Rei turn around and walk out the door. ***************************** Luna watches with wary, worried eyes as Princess Selenity struggles in her sleep, her head thrashing from left to right. Images flash through her mind with lightning speed and thunderous sounds. The racing sound of her heartbeat fills her ears and an unimaginable terror sends chills up her spine as Demando's face appears. Reveling with pleasure, he orders his henchmen to destroy Darien. "No!" She screams. "Darien!" Gasping for breath, she sits up, her head spinning. "Stop! Please! I can't...I can't..." Selenity moans. Demando's words lay etched in her mind and they repeat over and over again. "Destroy him now!" "Stop it!" She screams, her eyes wild and filled with uncontrollable tears. "So, you want peace..." A low voice hisses. Eyes wide, Selena whips her head around in all directions, searching for the voice's owner. Seeing no one, she whispers in sudden tranquil daze, "Peace?" Luna carefully approaches the princess. "What is it, child?" But she goes unnoticed by the ill princess. Selenity stares out into the darkness of the room, unable to make out her furniture or the location of the windows. Only the dark, sinister voice remains, clear and vibrant. "Yes...princess. The pain will cease. No one would be able to touch you. Your friends you would no longer need to hide from them what you truly are. And...most of all...you can make Demando pay for what he has done." "How?!" She roars. Luna reaches out to help her, but instantly falls to the ground unconscious. "Only one power will allow you to do it. You must use the Silver Crystal..." Selenity gasps and shakes her head. "No! I...cannot..." "But you must!" The voice insists and grows silent for a moment. "It is the only way you can have what you want. You must destroy those who would stand in your way." It whispers cunningly. Already tired and weak, from a restless sleep plagued with nightmares, she can only shake her head. "But...what do I want? I...don't...know..." "I will show you, child." "But...how can you..." "Shh...just follow the sound of my voice." As if in a blind trance, Selenity climbs out of bed and walks out into the strangely dark and deserted hallway. ***************************** In an immense banquet hall, a lavish meal lays set out upon a forty-foot table decorated with shining silver place settings and crystal goblets. Queen Serenity silently sits at the head of the table and mechanically lifts the spoon from her plate to her lips, barely tasting the chilled reed broth. To her left, once again with golden hair, Endymion stares blankly at the empty seat across from him and shifts uncomfortably. His generals sit next to him in order of descending rank and the senshi sit across from them respectively. Other Moon dignitaries occupy the rest of the seats along with Lady Beryl, Demando's 'cousin'. His highness, the Prince of Nemesis is not present for the morning refreshments. The hum of their light conversation breaks through the dreadful silence and echoes off the domed ceiling. Darien nervously glances at the many faces, unable to sooth the abornormally fast pounding of his heart. "Damn it. Something just isn't right." Kunzite exchanges a worried look to Venus and she nods in agreement with his apprehension. Anxious and worried, Darien reaches out to tries and locate Selena's presence for he can't ignore the nagging feeling of impending doom looming over him like a shadow. Complete silence returns his call and a hand of terror takes hold of his heart. He clutches his head, as finally, she answers with a deafening cry of agony. The senshi and generals turn to him and Kunzite places a gentle hand on his shoulder. "What is it?" He whispers. Darien's breathing becomes rapid and wispy and he looks up with clouded and confused eyes, unable to focus on the shocked, confused faces. He shuts his eyes as beads of sweat pour down his face and neck. 'What's happening to me...' Zoisite immediately rises and pronounces urgently, "With your permission, Queen Serenity, I request that the room be cleared." Serenity nods at once and the nobles quickly vacate the banquet hall. Just before exiting, Beryl turns and smiles, catching Serenity's eye. "So it begins..." She whispers into the crisp air. The guards close the doors behind her. Followed by his brothers, Zoisite rushes to the prince and shakes him forcefully, "Endymion!" Hearing a familiar voice break through the buzzing in his head, Darien cracks open his eyes, but is unable to clear his vision. The fuzzy form soon morphs into a sneering Demando, laughing, death embedded within his icy eyes. "She'll die...die...die..." He lets out a howling cry and jumps up from the table, his chair crashing to the floor. "No! Selena!" Before his generals or the senshi can reach him, a sudden, strong gust of wind bursts through the doors, followed by the sound of shattering glass. Queen Serenity whips around to look out the broken window and sees the rising black cloud, swirling with a crimson, blood-like color. Green lightning strikes emanate from it in all directions. "No. Not the Crystal..." she breathes. ***************************** Her long, white nightgown blowing in the wind, Selenity slowly advances to a solitary part of the palace and enters a pitch-black room. In crystalline bloom, the Silver Crystal appears in a flash of light, hovering just before her. Fascinated by the white light, she kneels in front of the Crystal and stretches out her hands to touch it's shimmering petals. As her skin makes contact with its glowing surface, her eyes become momentarily clear and she stares at the crystal in confusion. "Wait...why..." It's light flickers and its radiance dulls slightly as the dark voice enters her mind. "Yes. Use the Crystal. It is your salvation. Do what you must!" The princess's eyes once again glaze over and remain half-shut as she unsteadily begins to sway back and forth. Her heart beats stronger and stronger, willing her to refuse and fight. In a burst of strength and courage, she immediately climbs to her feet. "No!" She says calmly. "Whoever you are, I will not use the crystal. This is wrong and evil!" Metallia screams in seething rage. "It is too late, little fool! When I'm finished with you, there will be nothing left!" Selenity screams with pain as Metallia voices her vengeance. She falls to the floor, clutching her head tightly as tears of anguish seep down her face. Moments later, Queen Serenity calmly walks through the doorway. Noticing her daughter lying unconscious in the center of the floor, She confidently stands, narrowing her eyes and raising her chin in defiance. "You shall not win Metallia." She says darkly. Metallia laughs causing the walls and floor to vibrate. "This battle is not yours, Serenity. Your kind are gone and your powers are weak." "My spirit is still strong, but yours is as black and hateful as ever. This war will never end as long as you exist." "Will you break the law then, and destroy me yourself, child? You know the price for interfering. Apollo paid with his life. Are you willing to do the same?" A blast of wind flows through the room, the curtains whipping wildly, and a blood colored mist swirls around Princess Serenity's body. "Would you leave the universe in the hands of a girl who has so easily fallen within my power? No, Serenity. You will do what you have always done and what the sacred laws demand. I told you I would have my revenge upon you. I will keep your daughter alive. But with every kill she makes, another pain will stab your heart until you live no more. Now leave. Things will be as they once were and as they were always meant to be!" "No! The battle we began centuries ago is not over! You shall be stopped once and for all. If not by me, then by someone who can!" Once again, Metallia's sadistic laughter fills the room. "You are foolish. I have existed for millennia upon millennia. When all of your pathetic powers were united, you could not stop me then. And you *never* shall! Heed my words, for I shall return..." Once again, the floor rumbles. The chandelier chimes with the vibration, as Serenity falls to her knees on the floor and suddenly all goes silent. She sits frozen in place for what seems like an eternity. Quiet tears fall down her flushed cheeks and her hands tremble violently as she crawls toward her daughter. The Queen touches Selena's face with her cool fingers and gasps. It burns with a high fever. Serenity buries her face in her hands and weeps. "Oh, what have I done?!" Luna, supported by Artemis, slowly walks towards the Queen and kneels next to her. Luna places a comforting hand on the Queen's back. "You mustn't blame yourself." She whispers. "There is still time. Anything can happen." Artemis offers, optimistically. "That's what scares me the most." Serenity sobs. "If anything happens to her...I...I don't know what I would do. I lost a husband and now I'm about to lose a daughter. And I have only myself to blame." "No." Artemis says firmly. "You have done what you should have. Nothing can erase the mistakes of the past, but the future is another matter..." The Queen shakes her head. "It would take a miracle to mend the damage that has been done." Luna takes the Queen's hand in her own. "Your majesty, we have been with you since the beginning and we will stay until the end. You must not lose hope. There is a new generation! True, they still have much to learn...but...we have no more time left." "Queen Serenity stares long and hard at her two advisors and trusted friends. "Can they do it? Or will this be another repeat of the past? Matters could worsen." Artemis shakes his head. "That's not for us to decide. It's time they knew of their mission." ***************************** After long hours of weeping and much consideration, Queen Serenity wearily opens the door of her daughter's room and greets Zoisite. His hair flows long and loose and his eyes are red from a lack of sleep. Mercury trails just behind him. Apprehensive and uneasy, Kunzite paces across the balcony adjacent the sleeping quarters. Venus stares at him blankly, despair evident on her fair features. Jadeite and Mars pensively sit near a large fireplace, consumed by roaring flames. Lita and Nephrite sit next to the large white bed, housing their lieges. With tear-filled, jaded eyes, the Queen she asks in a worn voice, "How is he?" "Weak. Delirious. This makes no sense. There's no reason why..." Zoisite trails off and begins to rub his tired eyes. Ami places a comforting hand on his arm and offers her support. Her face tormented with pain, Serenity glances at her Selena. "And my daughter?" Mercury stares at the floor. "No change." She says mournfully. "The fever is still burning. We've tried everything we know of." Queen Serenity shakes her head resolutely. "Then I have no choice. The time has come..." Nephrite eyes her curiously, "Your Majesty?" Finally noting the Queen's presence, Kunzite re-enters the room. "There is something you all must know." She says, mysteriously. "As the only survivor of the ancient powers, it is my duty to tell you who all of you are." The generals and senshi exchange confused looks before turning back toward the Queen. Fearlessly, Serenity presses on. "Thousands of years ago, the universe was in chaos, ruled by evil forces. Out of its depths arose some very special stars. At their creation, great powers were given to select beings on those worlds. Combining their strengths, it was their mission to rid the universe of all darkness. They aligned their powers to form the Silver Millennium. After centuries of war and battles, evil was believed to be destroyed. But peace did not last long for soon the black influence was felt again and disputes arose among those ancient powers. Eventually, they split to form two separate kingdoms." She glances at the generals. "Disillusioned, they argued among themselves and never took notice of the subtle infiltration of darkness entering their lives. Finally realizing their mistake, an alliance was formed and two beings with the greatest powers of all, united both in body and spirit. But it was too late. Many paid with their lives. The ancient powers were diminished and broken. For you see, only as one were they able to fight successfully and win. Now, the darkness has returned, seeking vengeance and blood." Serenity glances from face to face with serious pleading eyes. "But there is still hope. Children were born to us and we were given a second chance. You have inherited the powers of your parents." Shocked by her words, Kunzite shakes his head incredulously. "All this time...why didn't anyone ever tell us?" "We did not tell you because we knew that you were not ready. As wielders of such awesome powers you have a great responsibility. Your minds and hearts have to be ready to work together. We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past." Ami suddenly stares with wide eyes at Endymion and Selenity. She whips around to face the Queen. "The two greatest powers were also passed on, weren't they?" "Yes, Mercury. Most of my power now belongs to my daughter. The Silver Crystal is meant to guide, protect, and create life. Unique in itself, Earth's power joined with that of my husband, Apollo, after his death. Prince Endymion now holds the Golden Crystal - the mate of the Silver Crystal. It heals, provides strength, and gives hope through dreams. But if misused, these crystals can destroy everything. That is why the darkness seeks to claim them." Mars shakes her head, her eyes dark and filled with fire. "That's what I felt then. Selena's mind has been poisoned." Jadeite narrows his eyes. "Demando...is he the evil we have to fight?" Serenity sighs and shakes her head. "No. He is only a small fraction that serves to aid the dark one. One by one, the planets were attacked from within. Now, most of the humans that lived on them are either dead or a part of them." "How can we combine our powers without the prince and princess?" Lita asks. "You can, but the powers contained within your own crystals were really meant to aid and protect them. They would have some effect...but I'm afraid that without those two crystals ...it just can't be done." "Then we have to heal them." Kunzite says matter-of-factly. Ami cocks her head to one side. "But Selenity's illness is not physical. It is all within her mind. Our powers don't work that way. Even Mars can't repair that damage." Nephrite reflects quietly for a moment; then stares at Endymion. "If the Golden Crystal is used to...then...perhaps if...we could give Endymion enough strength..." "Yes, Darien can cure her!" Venus shouts in agreement, hope shining in her eyes. "He is the key to her heart. Don't you see? It makes perfect sense...joined in body and spirit...they feel their pain as one. If anyone can reach her, he can." Suddenly a bright flash of magenta shines through the room and Pluto appears. "Then we shall do it. Come, join hands with me." Without hesitation, the generals and senshi approach her and join their hands together. They close their eyes and slowly they begin to glow, each radiating a different color of the rainbow. The light grows steadily brighter and brighter... ***************************** Darien swiftly walks toward the sound of the crashing waves, his legs taking long powerful strides. 'You carry our hopes within your hands, Endymion...' Queen Serenity's words echo in his mind. 'You're the only one who can heal her.' Lita said, with tears in her eyes. 'Be strong. We believe in you.' His generals smiled supportively. 'Remember...' Mars whispered. 'The key is within the mind.' Venus nodded. 'But to reach the mind, you have to use your heart.' Endymion shakes his head as the words repeat over and over in his mind like a song one can never forget. He glances down at his unconscious princess, and takes a deep breath. "I don't even know if I can heal you...not to mention I have no idea how to do it. Kunzite, if I ever needed your advice, it's now." As he reaches the edge of the water, he stares at the crashing waves. A memory begins to replay in his mind. Golden pulses had streamed into his body after seeing the vision of his mother. 'Perhaps...that is the key...' Bravely wading through, he slowly lowers her feet into the icy waters of the ocean. The bottom of her nightgown floats up and billows on top of the water. Still delirious, she moans in protest at the stinging waves. "Shh..." He whispers in her ear. "I'm right here." Selena's shoulders slump and relax as she leans back against him. 'Please...please...work...' He gently places his hands on her temples. "I want to help you, but you have to let me in." "No...can't..." she moans, tossing her head, a high fever still burning. "I'm scared...Darien!" She cries desperately. "Yes, I'm here." He breathes soothingly. "Don't be frightened." He closes his eyes. 'Mother...I need your help. Please...let me reach the sea of dreams...' The tide gently rolls in and small waves crash against their bodies. Shimmering lights begin to dance upon the water and form a circle around them. The Moon shines its approval as Endymion feels the familiar energy pulses fly through him and into his hands. Only this time, they seem to arise from within. They both begin to glow with a golden light. Selenity gasps and her eyes snap open. Darien whispers quietly in a foreign, almost ethereal voice. "Remember..." She remains still for a few moments and once again slowly relaxes and closes her eyes. In her delirious state, her voice suddenly becomes clear even though she speaks in a trance. "The water is cold...just like the night..." She begins to tremble. "...I lost him." Darien pulls her close. "I couldn't live...I wanted to die..." Her voice drifts off, and suddenly rage consumes her heart and she speaks again - this time with a voice of steel. "He would have killed him! I know it! I could hear him laughing...and oh, Gods!" She cries, shaking her head from side to side in a vengeful fury. "He was screaming! The pain...I felt it as my own!" Words fail her as she begins to sob violently. "I heard his call...but...I...didn't know...what to do! I should never have left!" Suddenly, her cries stop as Selenity feels a wave of warmth and comfort sweep over her. In a whisper, she continues. "Then...I couldn't feel him anymore. It was so quiet. I was so alone...the darkness...was everywhere...I swore I'd kill Demando for doing what he had done! I wanted everyone to be safe...." She stops out of breath and leans her head back against his chest. "I couldn't tell anyone. It was too important and I was scared to let them know ..." "What were you afraid of?" He breathes. "They would see the darkness...in me. I wanted them...needed them. But the voices...they kept coming." "What voices? Who are they?" She remains silent, fighting the screaming protests of the voice in her mind. Gasping for breath, Selena finally answers. "I don't know...I...can't...I..." She shakes her head as the pain becomes too great. A small smile tugs at the corners of her mouth. "But then...he came back...to me...just like he promised. I want to be with him so much...but...no!" She sobs, as the raging cries begin once more. "Why can't you be with him?!" "They tell me not to. Because I'll only hurt him...and...I...I'm not the same. I'm not the girl he loves." "How do you know what he wants?" She throws her head back as a wave of new tears flood eyes. "Don't you understand?!" She cries. That girl is gone forever! I can never be what I once was!" Endymion removes his hands from her temples as the small golden pulses fade away with the wash of the tide. Nearly exhausted, he takes a deep breath, wraps his arms around her waist, and gently rocks her back and forth. 'Her resistance is strong. I don't know how much longer I can do this. Something won't let me reach her!' After a long moment, Darien rests his chin on her shoulder and whispers in her ear. "Tell me your dreams..." "My dreams?" She asks, startled, in a small, surprised voice - as if awoken from a nightmare. "Yes, what do wish for, hope for? She hesitates. "I...don't...I...I wanted to be like my mother. She was always so strong, beautiful, and wise. She was all that I wanted to be. I failed in that too." Endymion turns her around, holding her by her shoulders. "Did you?" He lifts up her chin. "Selena, open your eyes. Look at me." Slowly her lids open to reveal tired, blue eyes. They shine like sapphires in the bright moonlight. She looks at him curiously, confused and lost. "Darien?" She asks bewildered. "How..." He lovingly takes her face in his hands. "I don't want anything else but *you.* Selena, your not the clumsy little girl I knew, nor are you a cold hearted princess. Somewhere you did become a beautiful woman. You don't realize how strong you are. Don't hide your pain. Let it go. Fight the darkness. Once you let go of your hate, it won't be able to touch you." He lowers his face to hers. "I will love you forever. You saved me. I would have died long ago if not for you. Now, it's my turn to save you. I'm not going to lose you!" As their lips touch, a blinding silver light emanates from the Moon Princess. Her crescent moon shines brightly on her forehead and as they part, she wearily smiles and rests her head on his chest. "But my dreams have changed, Darien...You are my dream. I think, perhaps, you always were...." She whispers before exhaustion gives way and she collapses into his arms. ***************************** Mars climbs a long series of steps and into the guest wing of the palace. She turns left and starts down a long, plush hallway lined with white carpets, tapestries, and priceless vases and other antiques. Stopping in front of a large open doorway and glancing out of the corner of her sharp, ruby eyes, Rei watches Jadeite pace irritably from one end of the fireplace to the other. Cocking her head to the left she watches his changing facial expressions. His brows furrow as he seems to be fighting some kind of battle within himself. Mars shakes her head. 'He seems so serious. Is he even the same person who rudely conned his way into dancing with me at the ball? It seems...all wrong...somehow - totally out of character. Yet the way he was before, in the princess's room...it's like a whole other side to him.' Jadeite stops pacing and back turned away from her; he stares intently at the flashing shades of red, orange, and gold dancing within the flames. Pasting on a smile, she approaches him quietly and places her hand on his shoulder. Suddenly emerging from his deep thoughts, Jade jumps at her touch. Her eyes soften and she whispers an apology. "I'm sorry. Did I disturb you?' He stares at her blankly for a moment, an ominous darkness swirling within them, causing shivers to run up her spine. Finally, looking away, he sighs and answers. "No. It's alright." Jade takes her small hand in his and stares at their entwined fingers. "I was just thinking..." "About what? You can tell me." He hesitates and he releases her hand letting his own fall to his side before running it uncomfortably through his short blonde hair. Shaking his head, he walks over to a large window and stares out at the darkness of space. "Something's not right. I feel anxious...like something is...trying to tell me...but...ah!" He grunts in frustration. Looking back at her inquisitive face, Jade sighs. "I can't put my finger on it exactly. Something is *wrong* - I know it. I just don't know what." Rei thinks for a moment before fear creeps into her blood. "Is it them? Has something gone wrong?!" "I don't know." She shakes her head smiling. "You have a really hard time searching your feelings." He raises a brow cockily. "Any suggestions, oh knowledgeable one?" She smacks him playfully on the arm, glad for the relief of tension and then pulls him back toward the fire. "Yes, actually, I do." Mars steps up to the hearth and passes her hand through the hot flames. She pulls her hand back and a lone flame dances upon her palm. "Do you see the white center of the fire?" Amazed, he nods. As he stares at it, his eyelids grow heavy and eventually close. "Good." She whispers. "Now visualize it in your mind. See the flame. Let your mind wander...yes...It will come - the source that calls you. Find it...down in the depths you will see it...feel it's call..." Jadeite's head goes limp and falls forward as Rei patiently waits. Suddenly, Jade's eyes fly open as he hears a thousand voices cry out in pain. Mars screams as he falls onto the floor and begins convulsing. "Jadeite!" His eyes roll back and his fists turn a deadly white as he clenches them tightly. Rei desperately tries to grab his arms to stop his thrashing movements. Tears fall from her ruby eyes. "How can I help you?! Please!" She cries. Instantly rolling onto his stomach, the seizures stop and he lets out an agonizing breath. His blond hair soaked with sweat, he rests his face against the cool floor. Finally emerging from shock, Rei kneels down and pulls his head into her lap, shakily moving his bangs away from his forehead. As she runs her hand along his face, she gasps, feeling the intense heat. "I'm sorry." She cries. "I didn't realize..." He cracks his bloodshot eyes open. "Hurry...get..." Kunzite bursts through the door, Nephrite and Zoisite just behind. "Jade!" He calls, eyes filled with fear and worry. He kneels next to him. Zoi looks at Rei. "What happened?" "I don't know." She sobs through her tears. "All of a sudden, he just..." Jadeite reaches up and grabs Kunzite's white shirt, almost tearing the thick cloth. His eyes burn with fire and pain. Nephrite gasps as he sees the blood from Jadeite's hand soaking into Kunzite's shirt. "He's bleeding!" Jade grits his teeth and turns to look at each of his brothers in turn. "We...have got...to get...to Earth." Rei begins to protest as he tries to get up but he raises a hand to silence her. "Now!" ************************* Dizzy and exhausted, Darien fights to keep his eyes open. He numbly gathers the last of his strength to carry the unconscious princess in his arms and trudge back onto the sandy beach. Swaying from side to side, he fights the strong undertow of the tide. Step after step, he can feel muscle spasms course through his body and a buzzing noise fills his head, followed by a sharp, stabbing pain. Amidst the shadows of the forest, dark figures make their way through the thick brush and clumps of trees. Glowing, red eyes burn through the darkness. Ominous, black clouds envelop the moon, as a shadow falls over the struggling prince. All plant life begins to sway and blow their branches in an omniscient warning. Along with the rustling leaves, owls cry out in the distance, crickets screech, and coyotes howl into the darkness of a now starless sky. Darien clenches his eyes shut, as tears of pain seep out from the corners. He feels as though a hand is squeezing his heart. His limbs begin to shake as his body desperately tries to evade the force tearing through him. With a low groan, he collapses to his knees. Unable to fight any longer, he gives in to a low call, begging him to sleep. He collapses on his back, Selena falling on top of him to rest on his chest. A line of blood trailing from the corner of his mouth stains the creamy sand crimson. Beneath their hoods, the glowing eyes of dark creatures of the night stealthily surround the two fallen figures. ************************** To be continued in Chapter 11... I know, I know. This was supposed to be the end. #1, I got tired of typing and #2, this would have been way too long! Thanks go to Lady Julia, my editor. Thanks for putting up with me! I apologize to all the people who have been waiting sooo long for this chapter. It's been finished for well over a month. I wanted to wait until my web-page was up. But then, Midterms arrived and I've been so busy. Please keep reading. I am working hard on the next part. Hey, go read Andrea Readwolf's "Visions of Yesturdays." It's excellent! I should know. I edited it! Till next time.