Solar Revolution

Tuesday, March 17

"Jess, I'm having a wonderful time. And you thought I wouldn't find miniature golfing romantic," Celeste teased her date. She had refused to let senshi business consume her life, and wanted to expand her relationship with Jess. He is wonderful. Fun, romantic, cute, and attentive. "Glad to hear it. What do you want to do after we finish the course?" Jess queried. "Any suggestions?" Jess took a moment to think it over, "Well, there is this massively sweet dance club I know of..." Celeste's shaking head caused his words to fade. "Can't, I left my fake ID at home. Besides, I'm not exactly dressed for it," she told him, indicating her khakis and sparkly oversized t-shirt. "Well I heard there is a rave-" "NO!" she swiftly interrupted. "No raves Jess. I made a promise," she told him sadly. Jess's face lit up as he exclaimed, "Laser tag and coffee!" Celeste smiled brightly as she made her consenting nod. "Sounds perfect." And she kissed him softly on the cheek, finding his slight blush endearing.

"Hi honey. I'm going to be going on a trip soon for a photo-shoot. In fact, I'm leaving in two days," Mr. Aglaia greeted his daughter Celeste as she walked in their studio apartment. Celeste just asked, "Most fathers would have demanded why I'm home so late and that they want to meet my date." Mr. Aglaia amusedly replied, "But I'm not most fathers. I trust you, and you understand consequences well enough to make well thought out decisions. And most daughters would be thrilled with this attitude." Celeste retorted, "And despite not being most daughters, I am. Especially since I know you do worry about me, but you want me to be strong and independent. I'd say you succeeded a little too well." Lovingly he accused, "Flatterer." Too sweetly she replied, "Learned from the best. SO. Where are you going, what are you shooting, and for who?" "SHouT clothing catalogues, they want the sunny fun city thing, so I'm flying to LA. I'm going to stop off and talk with your mother. You're welcome to come." Celeste's face grew cold and her voice detached. "Sorry dad, but I just signed up for yoga and kick boxing classes and I don't want to flake out so soon."

Mr. Aglaia sighed. "I wish you would forgive your mother. This divorce was the result of both of us screwing up. You forgave me. Don't you think it is time to forgive her?" Celeste knew she should, but couldn't bring herself to forgive her mother. "Dad, I'm not ready to face her. I want to settle back in here, but I also have commitments. I can't go this time." He nodded his head in acceptance. She couldn't tell him that one of the commitments was that she needed to be accessible to the other senshi. Mending the team was her responsibility, despite their ignorance to that need.

M Butterfly wanted to validate Tara's (2^nd General of the Swarm; a.k.a. Tarantula) claim. The best way was to confront Warvus (7^th Captain of the Swarm; a.k.a. Beetle) about his relationship with Annie. M had to be discreet, otherwise Fauna might find out and indulge her jealous tendencies. So M had sent one of his personal servants to give a note to one of Tara's servants, who in turn would give the note to Warvus's personal servant, who would then obviously give it to Warvus. The note was for them to meet in Tara's workshop, the best neutral ground without cameras. Tara would use her web of power to 'confuse' the cameras in the hallways from Warvus's dormitory to her workshop. M didn't need to use this precaution, for he had a peculiar talent. Dematerializing, meaning he could walk through walls at will.

The time for their meeting was a few minutes away, and M feared what he would hear. But if he waited a moment longer, he would be late. So he ignored the queasiness in his stomach and fluctuated his energy to pass through walls. M sprinted in the direct direction of Tara's workshop, though he had to levitate himself through one of the ceilings to go up one floor. That specific exertion was always draining and disorienting, using both of his abilities simultaneously. However, his timing had matched Warvus's perfectly. Tara nodded her head in acknowledgment of both of them and walked into her back room (which she used to figure out how to make clothes designs reality). Gruff greetings were exchanged between M and Warvus.

The Colonel indicated for the 7^th Captain to sit, which both did. Warvus liked M well enough, especially compared to the other Colonels, but he felt uneasy around him. "Let's cut to the chase. You know I called you here to answer some questions concerning 6^th Captain Ant. Have you had sexual relations with her?" M fired. Warvus startled replied, "Of course not. I don't think of Annie that way." Irritatedly Butterfly demanded, "But isn't it true she came in your room Saturday? Tell me everything that happened that night!" Warvus took a deep breath and explained, "She came to my room to comfort me about my enforced performance. Annie is like me in that she isn't in Fauna's favor and that one little mistake could mean our extinction. She warned me of the price of failure and told me she believed my music talent would allow me to get out of that situation. I thanked her and played a song, one that invoked winds. She found the music intoxicating and was giggling. The winds disarrayed her hair, and coming out of the relaxed state left her dazed. Buzz (5^th Captain of the Swarm; a.k.a. Mosquito) must have walked by as she came out. I think of Annie as a sister, and I did nothing that was the least bit inappropriate."

How Butterfly wanted to believe this. But he had to keep skeptical and not let his feelings cloud his judgment. "Could you demonstrate this music?" Warvus was one step ahead, his instrument ready. His eyes went distant as he played it, invoking winds as he played. And M felt relief as he fell into the spell of the music. But he then realized something else. If Tara was right about this, then she must be right about Draco's oncoming rape. I must prevent this, same as I must reconcile with my beloved Annie. Draco doesn't think rationally, especially when it comes to his bed mates. So talking won't work. Dammit, either answer Warvus could have given would have been relieving while having its own problems. I think I got stuck with the worst of the two.

Wednesday, March 18

Start playing song: “Say You'll Be There” performed by the Spice Girls.

***

"It's over Jamie. You hardly ever have time for me, and when you do, all you talk about is volleyball. This isn't a relationship. I'm sorry, but this isn't working for me. I gave it my best shot, and that wasn't enough. We weren't meant to be Jamie," Mallori told her now ex-boyfriend. Jamie couldn't force anything past his tight throat, blinking away threatening tears. He loved Mallori, and she him, but he knew it wasn't the everlasting love of soul mates. All he could do was beg her to stay with his eyes. But that wasn't enough.

***

"That is honestly what happened? I hope my condolences are of some comfort," DJ said to his friend. DJ knew something else that would cheer up Jamie, but this wasn't the right time. Both Mina and Jamie are crazy for each other. But if I told him this now, Mina would be a rebound date, not a real girlfriend. Still, I never did like Mallori. Slight vibrations from the device were a reminder that DJ had to go somewhere, though he loathed to leave Jamie alone. He scanned his eyes around the school yard for someone he could trust to comfort the heartsick volleyball player. Only acceptable person was Mina, who wasn't the most appropriate. However, DJ knew he had to get going. "Mina!" he hailed. He quickly briefed her on what was happening and requested if she would try to cheer up Jamie. "Of course! Did you think I'd say 'No'? I would think you'd give me a little more credit than that." DJ smiled, knowing Mina could manage to cheer up Jamie. Now hopefully she'll have enough sense not to flirt with him. But I can't stick around to make sure she doesn't.

DJ left, leaving Mina to comfort Jamie. "Jamie, heartbreaks really suck. I should know. I'm going to give you a couple minutes to pour your heart out. Once you've finished, we are going to meet up with some of my friends and go hang out at the mall. Got it? And while we're there, we might as well let you pig out on ice cream and chocolate and other comfort foods." Jamie looked at Mina, whose rational teenage approach seemed just what he needed. They both sat down on the steps of the front of the school, and Mina listened and made comforting gestures as Jamie bared his soul to her. A bond grew between them from this conversation. They both have had crushes on each other, but now it seemed to be more, for they were really getting to know each other. Yet they still didn't know how the other felt. After half an hour, Mina stood and outstretched her hand to help him up. She then asked, "Think you're up to going to the mall with my friends, and then gorging on sweets?" He soberly nodded his head, though his eyes were shining brightly.

Stop playing song.

Gabrielle (3^rd Captain of the Hoof; a.k.a. Gazelle) hurried to the Great Hall for her Clan's breakfast gathering. The Evolites had an interesting way of doing meals. Each Clan was given a slot to eat together for breakfast, which was your only chance of getting the free meal. If you overslept, you would miss out on breakfast, and could be punished for missing the daily gathering of your Clan, depending on your Colonel. For lunch and snacks, you had to use your privilege marks to pay. And dinner was a two hour banquet, where unless it was a Summoning, you could come as you please, but it was strategically best to be there as long as possible. At dinnertime, the entire Evolite colony ate at tables designated for each Clan; even Fauna joined in, though she had a small table where only three Colonels, at most, could join her.

But Gabrielle was perhaps the most graceful Evolite of all. She had a beautiful lithe body and a stunning face. Her hair was a warm caramel that was several inches longer than her shoulders and had natural white spots that worked as camouflage. She didn't have bangs, though she had a front tendril of hair on her right side that almost reached her shoulder, and on the left it just barely reached her mouth. Also Gabrielle had to short tufts of hair that were in very short pigtails on the top of her head. She tended to favor three-quarter inch sleeved shirts that had a fold across neckline and reached just short on her long torso. With it she wore pants that were so baggy at the top that there was a rope to tie it to her body, but went into a Capri's style, which showed off her muscular legs. And with her doe-like chocolate eyes and tiny nose and soft lips, she was very desirable.

However, Gabrielle had effective ways of discouraging unwanted attention. Besides, she was more interested in mastering acrobatic sports, building up her stamina and agility and stealth, and expanding her mind. When Gabrielle arrived in the Great Hall, she floated over to her reserved seat. Gabrielle personally was grateful for which Clan she was in. Colonel Mare is a marvelous Colonel. She actually cares about us, and makes sure we stay in top shape. And I realize this is a cruel way to feel, but I feel that the Clan of the Hoof is better off without Mel (3^rd General of the Hoof; a.k.a. Camel). He always creeped me out. Though this does leave us with only seven members of our Clan. But the rest of us are great Evolites, despite what our critics say. "Gabrielle, I'm glad you made it. We were about to come up with our strategy for our second chance on this planet. Our main obstacle now is avoiding those Sailor senshi, but from the reports I've heard, there is one especially that can ruin our mission. The Solar Sailor. Apparently she is the only one with the ability to retrieve the Bright Futures. Here is what I thought should work: We have two teams go attack two targets simultaneously. Not only will this confuse the senshi, but it will insure that we get at least one of the two bright futures. The problem is that we have only one batch of the special phuter spray, though we do have one batch of the regular stuff. Do we have any volunteers?" Colonel Mare instructed.

Mare looked hard at each one of her Generals and Captains, evaluating each of their strengths and weaknesses. Finally Gabrielle raised her hand. "I'll take the human who will need to have his guard down." Mare nodded and wrote something down on her notepad. Then George (2^nd Captain of the Hoof; a.k.a. Ox) raised his hand and mumbled he would take the other victim. Mare nodded approval and wrote something else on her notepad. "Okay then. Let me brief you quickly on today's schedule, and then you can enjoy your meal and we can go on our separate ways. Captains will have training with me at 1200 hours, which will last one hour; Generals at 1400 hours. While all of you are exceptionally fast and strong, we need to rehearse control over that strength and pacing yourself with your speed. And at 1700 hours we will have a mandatory study session where we will be beefing up your language skills and understanding on the earthling cultures. Gabrielle and George are to report to me every two hours for preparations on your mission. I do not want you two to fail."

Gabrielle hated these missions, but she figured if she went, there would be minimal casualties. Besides, Gabrielle had a weakness: she desired prestige. Gabrielle doubted anyone knew this, except possibly Colonel Mare. But Gabrielle didn't care if her Colonel knew this. Mare wouldn't reveal the weakness to anyone else, and it is her job to know her Evolites well. Besides, Mare has probably allowed prestigious opportunities to become accessible to Gabrielle because of this.

Gabrielle was surprised when Colleen entered (1^st Captain of the Den; a.k.a. Collie), who hasn't come out of her quarters since her beloved died. Colleen and Simon (3^rd General of the Ape; a.k.a. Simian) had made such a cute couple before his Clan was persecuted. She has become so melancholy that all her meals have been sent to her room, and from what the servants say, she barely touches them. While the Den's breakfast slot had just passed, Gabrielle didn't have the heart to tell Colleen that she couldn't stay, instead making room for the elegant creature to sit beside her. Gabrielle overted her eyes from the ribs poking out from the slender figure. Mare locked eyes with Colleen and said, "Captain Collie, while it is a pleasure seeing you out of your quarters, you missed your Clan's breakfast slot. However, for today we shall let that slide. But in the future, please realize that we don't like to make exceptions." Colleen nodded slightly, her face looking distant and forlorn. Gabrielle noticed the elegant Den Captain spent more time stirring her oatmeal about than eating it. Poor thing. If this is the price of loving someone with all your heart, it does not seem worth it.

Start playing song: “Makin' My Way (Any Way That I Can)” performed by Billie.

"Go Amara! You can do it! Just a little farther!" Michelle screamed encouragingly. Amara had a late start and was struggling to catch up with the leading runners: Jared, her fellow teammate from Miracielo, and Robert, the star athlete from Meadow Grove High School. Michelle had pushed aside her physical admiration of the Meadow Grove athletes the moment Amara set foot on the track. Michelle felt so proud and exhilarated whenever she saw Amara run nowadays. Because she has stopped running away from her destiny. And track is now enjoyable for her. We overcame every ordeal in the past, same as we will with this one. The Evolites don't stand a chance. In the mean time, we can rub Jared's arrogant nose in his defeat and embarrassment of losing not only to a girl, but a lesbian. Michelle renewed her dedicated encouragements with that thought.

Amara was now neck in neck with Jared and Robert. On the last turn, Jared leaned too far out, meaning he was leaning into Amara's lane. Amara fortunately knew what he was up to, and moved out of the way. This caused him to be off balance, having expected resistance. Jared stumbled at this crucial moment, making it a sprint to the end between Robert and Amara. Amara was tiring, but put the extra energy in when she heard Michelle's voice over the crowd screaming, "Run love! You're almost there, so don't give up!" That extra energy was what made Amara win the race by .5 seconds.

She leaned over, putting her palms on her knees as she gasped and huffed, trying to regain the delicate normal breathing pattern. How she longed to just sit down, but that would be terrible on her muscles. Someone handed her a cup of water and a towel as Amara noticed Michelle pushing through the crowded bleachers, whooping for joy. Amara would have chuckled, had she the breath to spare. Michelle so rarely got off her high and lofty pedestal, that was an occasion on itself. Amara was too occupied to notice that she managed to accomplish quite a few things. People were congratulating her for gaining a new league record, winning the track meet for Miracielo, and her nomination for the school athlete of the year award. Amara was too busy concentrating on catching her breath, and on the approaching aqua-haired beauty. Michelle ran the few feet to hug Amara tightly, Amara hugging just as fiercely. Amara then swung Michelle around in a tight circle. "First you get me all sweaty, then you spin me around without a care for propriety. What next?" Michelle teased. Amara was so high on endorphins and love that she responded while holding Michelle's chin in her hands, "This." And Amara brought Michelle's face to hers to deeply kissed Michelle, oblivious to the crowd around them. When they finally stopped, there were two figures waiting to talk to Amara.

"You cheated, you dyke!" raged Jared. Michelle sweetly asked, "Is that anyway to treat the athlete who won the game for our school? Honestly, I would think you'd be thrilled our school won." Jared was about to say something else, but the other figure said, "Jared, shove it. You were the one that tried to cheat. Amara won by skill and hard work, something you might want to check in the dictionary." Jared was shocked that Robert sided with the lesbians. He then stomped off, muttering some less than flattering comments. Amara then smiled and said, "That was quite some race. I honestly don't know how I managed to muster the energy to win." Michelle then jibed, "Quit the humility act. It doesn't suit you. Just be your ordinary snottish bratly self." Amara became haughty, which was ruined by Robert's laughing. Amara then remembered her manners and said, "Robert, this is my friend, Michelle." Robert warmly shook her hand and said, "I just wanted to tell you how honored I felt racing you. Listen, I've got to go to the team's unvictorious party. However, I wanted to say no hard feelings. And I must say, the two of you are quite lucky to have found one another." Amara waved farewell, all the while thinking We've always known. Michelle however wanted to be childish, meaning making Jared quite aware of his defeat. And now was when Amara had trouble being fast enough, Michelle dragging her by the arm. We've always known.

Stop playing song.

Trista had felt like she was tagging along the entire kick boxing class. Celeste had invited a bunch of the girls to come, and Trista had agreed to come to keep Rini occupied. This was one of the few times Serena could steal some alone time with Darien, and Trista wanted them to make the most of it. Lita and Raye had been the only others to make it today, which meant a group of 5. Celeste got along with everyone wonderfully, joking and advising as if they had known each other forever. But with Trista, Celeste always treated her as a respected and trusted adult, not like one of her friends. It made Trista at a lost of words, for Celeste was more personal with even Hotaru. Even though I'm as much of a part of the team as everyone else, I'm never one of the gang. I was a princess like everyone else, but I guess that isn't enough. It must be that I'm older, and that I am the Guardian of Time. I've always have been alone. My few memories of the Moon Kingdom seem to be full of loneliness. And in the future I'm too busy to have close relationships. So there's no reason to have expected the present to be any different.

Celeste had managed to learn quite a variety of skills with her newfound telepathy. She didn't feel comfortable going any deeper than focused thoughts. Focused thoughts are when a person is silently speaking to themselves, their most conscious of conscious thoughts. There was a whole set of morals and ethics she had to develop for herself when it came to thought-reading. However, Phoebe insisted she fully hones each skill, so she can use them responsibly in a time of need. Celeste kept tabs on people's feelings and such by the general feel of their mind. And Celeste knew from the feel of Trista's mind, and her body language, that something was bothering her. Celeste brushed against Trista's thoughts and discovered the culprit. Self-pity and loneliness. Is it my business to ease this? I've been meddling a lot lately. And I don't want to stretch my resources too thin. No, these are just excuses. The truth is, I don't entirely feel comfortable around Trista. She seems so beyond humanity. It's different with Hotaru. I realize both have great responsibilities, but Hotaru is something besides duty. She loves her father and is quite fond of Rini. Trista doesn't have anything besides duty. I respect her going to a junior college when she doesn't need to and doesn't have much spare time, but she never does anything just because she feels like it. I'll delegate the task of incorporating Trista into the group further to Amy and the scouts. Amy can insinuate the idea better among the scouts, and I think she would be able to talk with Trista better. I don't want to fake sincerity. Celeste gave the punching bag a powerful kick to emphasize her adamant resolution.

"How do you manage to keep up with this?" Raye managed to gasp out during the warm downs. Not that Raye was out of shape, quite the opposite. But kick boxing is extremely rigorous cardiovascular exercise, and Celeste was apparently the only one not dying from fatigue. "I do a lot more exercise than you. I run, I've taken an assortment of athletic courses. Also, I know how to pace myself better. But don't stress. You'll eventually get the hang of it." Celeste was actually impressed with her companions' stamina. Even Rini had managed to do the whole routine. After a few minutes of resting, the girls headed out of the section of the fitness center where their class was held. It just happened that they walked by a section that had a pair of fencers in an elaborate match. The girls watched in awe as the two fencers dodged and lunged with such grace and agility. "Wow! They are so good," Rini softly said with awe.

When one of the two finally got a hit, the group of girls applauded. The winner gracefully took off the mask, which let long auburn hair pour down her back. She advised, "That fancy move of yours leaves you vulnerable on the right. Now about our deal, I believe you are paying for dinner tonight." The other person grumbled good-naturedly as he agreed while taking off his mask. "I was wondering what that move's weakness was. Thanks for pointing it out. Now about dinner, how does Italian sound?" It took a moment later for the fencers to realize they've had an audience. The boy then apologized, "Sorry we ignored you. We just noticed you girls. Deena and I have this tendency of getting a tad too focused when we fence." Deena added, "Owen, than is much too much of an understatement. When we go at it, we both are oblivious to the rest of the world. Or in other words, if the sky was covered with black dust, we wouldn't notice unless we were kicked out of here or they cut off the electricity. But hey, you all are pretty objective, right? So tell us, what did you think of our bout?"

"It was amazing. How long have you two been fencing?" an admiring Rini exclaimed. Owen smiled as he responded, "I've been fencing since I was eight, so its been nine years for me. And Deena here was a natural when she joined five years ago. I still find it hard to believe our first match-up ended up in a stalemate. Any other opinions?" "Owen, you tended to guard your upper body more frequently, making it more tempting to aim lower," Lita critiqued. Raye added, "And you should incorporate a few more basic moves between your fancy visual tricks." Celeste also added an observation, "Deena, you spent too much time on the defense. The only reason you went for that last mark was because he was too vulnerable." Both Owen and Deena were impressed with the comments. Deena commented, "Most people don't pay attention to those details. How did you know what to look for?" Lita admitted, "I take martial arts." Raye added, "So do I, but also I can easily recognize moves that are more intimidation over purpose." "And I've tried all sorts of team sports, and I can tell when someone is scared to take their focus off defense," Celeste revealed. "Oh, I get it. You all related your athletic experiences to fencing. What are your names?" Owen realized. Raye did the introductions.

Deena was curious if Trista had anything to say. "I think that match didn't truly test your skills. While both of you are competitive enough to really want to beat the other, the two of you were too synchronized. That told me you both know the other's style very well. It is probably well past time the two of you practice against different fencers," Trista told them. "I told you Mr. N. was right. Even a non-fencer can see it," Deena exclaimed loudly. Owen sighed and explained, "For several years we've been in the same fencing classes. However, in the past six months there hasn't really been any group classes for people of our skill level. So we just decided to practice against one another and occasionally the instructors. I've been somewhat hesitant to move on to another fencing partner because the two of us have been dating for two years." Rini expressed, "That is so romantic. But aren't there professional fencers? Cause if there are, don't you think you're good enough to be pros?" Both Owen and Deena shook their heads. "We love fencing, but neither one of us is impractical enough to devote our entire lives to something that is so risky," Deena divulged. Owen added, "Besides, we use fencing to escape life, not become our lives. But hey listen, the two of us have got to get going. We have a dinner date to get to, and it is a school night. It was great to meet all of you!"

Lita commented to the girls, "Those two are so nice. I'm glad we met them, though I hope my sore muscles won't make me regret the kick boxing class tomorrow." Raye agreed, "Same here. It is so cool that they are passionate about something without being obsessed." "And they have such a cute relationship," Rini exclaimed, which got her a couple of amused looks. Trista didn't really have any comments to add. And Celeste, she was having a flashback:

***

***

"Celeste, you okay?" Lita asked with concern. "I'm fine. Just Remembering, but thanks for the concern," she responded. The significance of the word Remembering wasn't noticed. They reached outside and were parting ways, Lita, Raye, and Rini going to work on homework at the temple. Celeste was putting on her roller blades when Trista asked, "I know you don't think that highly of the division between the Outer senshi and the Inners, but that doesn't excuse you from withholding memories that might hold information. What did you see?" Celeste stood up with defiance, "Do you know why I was reawakened? I'm here to fix mistakes that have been allowed to grow cause no one tried to change things. And trust me, my memory has no significance to the Evolites." Trista demanded, "Just tell me what you saw!" Celeste yelled, "My older brother and father fencing! And me about to fence my father! Now, mind telling me how that plays a part in our mission?" Trista stiffly apologized, "You're right on that account. But don't blow up your significance in the scheme of things. I just overestimated your psychic abilities."

Celeste corrected, "No, you were wrong as to where my abilities lie. Its the Martians that have Sight of the past and future. My father's heritage gives me Mind. As I explained, my memories weren't blocked, I just happened to only gradually recall them. And I beg of you, never underestimate my abilities. I'm only learning how to shield and control my full powers now in the present. In the Silver Millennium, my father had the formidable strength to fully shield my telepathy. Phoebe is nowhere near an equal to him in strength nor training. My father died before getting a chance to teach us to shield and use our telepathy." Trista was getting too wound up in thought to realize the sudden usage of 'us', and who it meant. "Trista, Princess Pluto de Avernus, Sailor Pluto, Guardian of Time, first-born and daughter of Queen Janice and King Dis, heiress of the planet Pluto under the house of Avernus, we are not enemies, nor rivals. Both of us have greater responsibility than the average senshi. But you must believe that whatever I do is with the best intentions, and after much careful consideration. Now if you are done having me prove you wrong, I've got a paper that's got to be in the mail tomorrow. But listen, I don't have any scruples about explaining stuff to you. Just don't make it into a shouting match." And Celeste bladed off.

Celeste knew all my titles, even the ones I forgot, and in the correct order used by the Moon Kingdom. Only reason I know this is because Neo Queen Serenity reinstated that years ago, but none of the others know it. She is right on several accounts, but especially that I underestimated her. She has better perspective on the situation than even I do. But she has enough balance to still lead a normal life. Perhaps I should try to emulate her example.

"Hey Phoebe! How was your day?" Celeste greeted #Practice Mind-speech with me every chance you get. It will teach you more control and will get you in the habit so you won't be put in awkward situations by talking out-loud to a dove.# Celeste winced at the thought of spur of the moment lame lies. #Celeste, I also need to talk to you about your tendency of small fibs.# Celeste sat down on her bed in her studio bedroom. # I don't lie that much,# Celeste sheepishly claimed.

#Just listen to me without interrupting. By being awakened as the Solar Sailor, you accepted many responsibilities and powers. You not only have to fight along side the other senshi against villains, but you must fix the internal problems we are facing. You can now heal people, read thoughts, call people at long distances, and a few other tricks you'll learn as we progress. However, you have a, shall we say, side effect. You being the guardian of truth and light, having telepathy, and your training as a Scribe makes it so your word is binding. In other words, if you tell a lie, you can't later on go and say nor do something that contradicts that lie. So to overall avoid that situation, don't lie whatsoever and be careful how you words things.#

Celeste muttered in her thoughtsGreat, she could have told me that sooner. Phoebe responded to the private thought, # Celeste, just make it easier on both of our peace of minds and project your comments in the future. Now that I told you of that side effect, I'm going to teach you how to read dormant thoughts.# Celeste groaned, for this was the type of stuff she did not want to be forced to do. Too many moral issues. But if she didn't learn how to do it under tame situations, if a situation arose where it was essential, Celeste could all too easily wreak accidental havoc. It is better to have a tool and not need it than to need a tool and not have it.

Fauna meticulously double checked all the locks in her lab. She was about to embark on a new experiment. Fauna anticipated this would be the day of success, she felt it in her bones. She opened her notes and re-added her calculations and re-evaluated her observations. This worked once. Now its time to see if a variation will work. And maybe I can figure out why this rarely works. Fauna unlocked the two cages, pulling out the drugged creatures by their leashes. Each creature was placed flat on a board, every limb strapped down, and needles stuck in pressure points. There was a third board, which currently was unoccupied. The three boards created a triangle, in which Fauna stood in the center.

This time she was going to try model 1 for the creation of Ernest, aka General Ermine. That's right. Only a few of the Evolites actually came from Bona Dea, a planet where animals evolved into sapient beings. The rest of the Evolites were created by Fauna herself. In actuality, there are six types of Evolites: The Bona Deaans, the ones that naturally were created; the model 1s, where a human and animal is fused together; the model 2s, beings made from an animal soul put in a human shell; model 3s, where a human soul is put in an animal body; and the scratch made, those created purely out of Fauna's magic (primarily the Colonels). And then there are the dollies, dolls resembling mythological creatures that have been given life. The only other being besides Fauna that was privy to this info was Colonel M Butterfly. And the extinct Clan of the Ape. All the other Evolites assumed that all Evolites were from Bona Dea, though they don't remember it. And when a new Evolite was added to the ship, Fauna always claims it was a refugee she found.

Fauna tampered with each Evolites' mind so they would accept her explanations. The only mind Fauna could never alter was Annie's (6^th Captain of the Swarm; a.k.a. Ant). But that is beside the point. Fauna has had many failures with her creations. Most of them she nuked or designated as a Petty Minion. While Fauna has had a few successes with weasels becoming Evolite worthy, her only Evolite with a weasel base is Colonel Weasel, who was scratch made. She had a suspicion part of the reason the other weasel attempts had failed was because the humans didn't have weasel-like enough characteristics. But this drugged human looked like a weasel and always talked his way out of every situation.

It should work this time. The only obstacle I need to overcome is the coloring. In nature, ermines are weasels in the winter with white fur, and once spring comes around, regain weasel like coloring. But I want an Evolite that has white coloring all the time. But I think I figured out how to impede the color changes so as to be unaffected by neither weather nor an internal clock. I've had creations in the past that changed only when it got warm, or ones that would become white in the winter months. Too bad I had to destroy them after raising them for so many months, but it is a necessary evil. I need more worthy Evolites to gather Bright Futures. With so many Bright Futures, I can have the determination to resist the compulsions laid deep within my mind. I used up all the Futures from previous planets and Derek's is the only newly acquired one. However, the shine of his Future has been bright enough to suffice, so far. And he has too much potential to just fade away. Maybe once he realizes the rationale behind my actions, he'll be willing to become an Evolite, despite his mind and true self forever being changed. No one understands fully why I must be cruel to be kind. Not even my darling Monarch Butterfly knows that I am fighting against something bigger than the existence of all beings on Earth and the Evolite ship combined. I need all the strong Evolites I can get, ones that are loyal and obedient to me alone, ones that can blend in with earthlings if necessary. A weak Evolite is worse than none.

And Fauna was here in her laboratory to create another strong Evolite. She used white chalk to create careful drawings on the floor and wall of the lab. Special candles and oil lamps were lit along with incense, then placed in their specific spots. The angle and placement of tiny mirrors were made with great care. And gems with engravings indicating power were invoked and created a circle around her feet. Fauna drew from the reservoir of power from within her and unleashed it, giving the power a specific task. Even though the human and ermine were drugged, they gave unholy shrieks the moment Fauna's magic touched them.

Her face contorted the moment she tore threads away from the fabric of their spirits. With these fabrics, she created a persona with likes and dislikes, fondnesses and fears. Her magic then tore bones away from the two living creatures, to create the base of the physical body. It would have been a mercy to kill them before the spell casting began, but the spell would have been rendered useless. Fauna had the bones float to the empty board, where she fused and reshaped the bones. Once Fauna had a complete skeleton that was to her liking, she peeled layer after layer of skin off of the still living creatures, and stretched the skin over the bones. At this point, Fauna needed nothing from the two creatures but their lives, which remained intact for the moment. Now, the rest of the Evolite would be created from her own magic growing organs and kindling them. With careful care to each organ, she created one after another, inspecting each as they were created for flaws. Only after she was thoroughly satisfied would she start on the next organ. Finally when all its internal organs were created, she sculpted how the face and body should look. She took away hair here, added some white pigments there, perfecting its humanity with allusions to weaselness. Finally she silenced the human and ermine, yanking their life forces into the newly created Evolite, giving it twice the strength. And there was only one last touch she needed to administer: giving it its own magic. With one last spurt of magic, Fauna was done creating the Evolite.

Fauna's powers over animals allowed her to dispose of the carcasses properly. She would have one of her older slaves clean up the lab later. For now she sunk down into her favorite chair and saw her new creation with pride. He will sleep for a few hours, and will need to draw directly from my magic to survive a few days. But after that, he will be self-sustained, and I can use my newfound knack of triggering internal clocks to see if he is worthy of surviving. And I will put him through every rigorous test I know of to see if he is an Evolite candidate. And Fauna dosed off, tired out from all her magical work.

Fauna woke up with a start. She had much to do. She was curious as to what actually goes on when her Evolites come across the Sailor senshi. They shouldn't be too much of a real threat, but they did destroy an Evolite. And I'm sick of second hand information. And after the inventors finish setting up my spy cameras, I can see for myself what happens. Too bad I didn't inherit scrying skills, otherwise I would be able to see what happens by magic. But then again, being able to control all types animals, to levitate, to astral project, and to call forth distant objects makes up a pretty impressive résumé. In reality, Fauna was glad she didn't have any other magical abilities. It would make her more vulnerable to the enemy's influence. Not the senshi, they were only a temporary adversary. No, Fauna had bigger fish to fry, and the only way to resist the enemy's influence was to have determination and initiative. And that was a big part of what made one have a bright future.

Here's a thought. What if I had the inventors develop a device that always only takes away the shine of a bright future, instead of the future itself? This must be a sign that I'm falling out of the enemy's influence, for my thoughts have become more rational and less ruthless. Fauna froze, thinking she heard a familiar evil mocking laugh. It turned out that Ermine was snoring. Fauna stood up a stretched her tired muscles.

Fauna then walked out of her laboratory, locking it carefully behind her. Not that she was leaving Ermine unattended. He did need her magic to survive his first fragile days of life, which meant a link. But with this link she could divulge his physical condition, whether he was sleeping or awake, in pain or healthy, struggling to live or wreaking havoc in her lab. Fauna proceeded to her parlor, where she would talk to select individuals. She beckoned Dossiel, her most docile and competent servant. Dossiel was perhaps the only one of her servants that had never had cause to be punished.

Fauna scribbled quick notes and instructed her, "Deliver these notes to the appropriate persons. Round up the heads of the inventor sororities, and have them here in thirty minutes. Instruct them to bring what they have of their current projects. Then, I want you to get the crew reports and have them send one of their people to explain what they are doing about any problems. I want that person to come here at approximately one hour before dinner. The other notes are for 2^nd General Tarantula (m.c.k.a. Tara) and General Mare to remain in the Great Hall after the evening banquet to discuss matters. Did you catch all of that?"

Dossiel nodded her head and repeated the instructions. Then she went over a few questions. "Would you like me to provide refreshments and chairs for the inventor heads? Cause if you would, I could easily arrange for the chairs to be set up and the refreshments could be simple and quiet. For it would prevent them from being distracted by hunger. Also, I'll see to it that pads of paper and writing instruments are available for them to sketch out ideas and take notes. Also, would you like servants to be available within the room, or would you like it to remain as discreet as possible? And one last detail I would like covered, what should we do with Derek?"

Fauna cursed at the last question, having forgotten that Derek should be here. Fauna did some quick thinking before responding, "Yes, I would like the materials for the inventors. Pick two adequate servants to tend to the meeting. And in the third center drawer of the oak desk in my chambers there is a list of approved Evolites who can keep Derek occupied. Choose two who aren't busy, unless you choose 5^th General Vixen (m.c.k.a. Vickie). Delegate your responsibilities as you see fit. Oh, one last thing; I need all the Bright Fate Dimmers, except the ones the Clan of the Hoof are using, before the inventors arrive. So unless you can think of anything else, you are dismissed." Dossiel bowed deeply, and then scurried off.

In summary as to what happens, the discussion with the inventors covered the spy cameras, the improvement of the Bright Fate Dimmers, and several other miscellaneous projects. The spy cameras were left with Fauna. The crew let Fauna know that the hallways are becoming more unstable. Fauna reluctantly gave orders to, "Move the ship from Charon to Nereid, one of Neptune's moons. It has an erratic orbit and should be at its farthest now. I believe that by being closer to the Earth, we will minimize stretching the teleporter's abilities and help stabilize the planes. You will start the move to Nereid after the next mission has been executed." And by then, it was time for the banquet.

Tara found Colonel Mare's strategy for the upcoming mission to be quite good. But that wasn't why Tara was here. Part of the reason she was allowed to maintain her web of information was that Tara came across gossip and personal situations that Fauna wasn't privy to. Not that I've said anything about Colonel Monarch Butterfly and Annie (6^th Captain of the Swarm; a.k.a. Ant). But if it weren't for me, it wouldn't have even come to Fauna's attention that Draco is planning on engaging in physical activities with a certain disfavored 6^th Captain. Despite the fact that Fauna is ignoring the upcoming fiasco. And damn it that I can't gather enough proof to make Fauna act. But hopefully M Butterfly will do something about it. That reminds me of something I need to check into: how many Evolites know for a fact that M is neither female nor androgynous. I should check into it for curiosity's sake. Another thing to work on is my idea to gain blackmail leverage: bugging Fauna's spy cameras, keep the footage, and threaten to show it to the rest of Evolites if Fauna doesn't leave Annie alone. Its the best I can do for the dear.

Tara discreetly tugged a thread of her invisible network, which released thousands of tiny spiders. Tara mentally instructed them to go into Fauna's parlor and get themselves inside the cameras. This would literally bug the cameras. It was how Tara got a good portion of her information, having every camera on the ship bugged. Fauna had in the meantime beckoned Dossiel. "Dossiel, I want you to make sure Derek is here tomorrow during the mission. It could be disastrous if he happens to be there at the wrong time. Find a volunteer to keep him occupied during that time." Tara knew her actions have gradually skirmished more and more closely with insubordination, but her next plan of action would directly work against Fauna's best interest. "I'll be willing to keep the earthling boy out of the way," Tara offered, a variation of her earlier plan being her motive. She would turn Derek against Fauna, the only one who doesn't depend on Fauna. And then Annie would be free of Fauna's reign of terror. Anything to save the one innocent Evolite. No matter the cost.

"So Mina, how is Jamie doing?" DJ asked with concern over the phone. Mina went on to describe their afternoon, "I think going to the arcade helped cheer him up. I won on the race car games, of course, but he won a couple of stuff animals from the claw machine and gave them to me. By then it was early evening, and we met up with a couple of my friends for pizza for dinner. And of course nice-guy Darien treated everyone. I know Jamie was partially trying to not be a downer for us, but he did get the message that life will go on through his thick head." DJ laughed at her upbeat description, and felt relieved. They didn't be idiots and tell each other how they feel. But he was also relieved that Jamie wasn't going to go into a deep depression. The guy was one of DJ's few friends, and DJ would jokingly claim to Jamie the next day that it would be no fun having a downer for a bud.

Mina then proceeded to turn the tables on DJ and told him a scheme of hers. "I want to take Jamie out on Saturday. The problem is that he'll think it is a date. So, I was thinking that you and this friend of mine could come along. Well?" Mina had three motives for her plan. One, she wanted to get closer to Jamie. Two, she wanted to cheer him up. And three, DJ and Celeste were Mina's closest girl and guy friends, and Mina had a selfish desire to play matchmaker and see the two of them happy together. DJ hesitated, thinking how he had other commitments that could pop up at any time. But Mina wore down his determined answer with a fierce will. Finally DJ consented. Shortly afterwards he hung up.

Now Mina had to get Celeste to come. She dialed up her pal's number, figuring she would be at her house. It rung a couple of times before a breathless Celeste grabbed it. "Hello?" she gasped. Mina inquired, "What took you?" Celeste then understated, "Oh, I just took a kick boxing class, roller bladed home, ran up ten flights of floors and then dove for the phone before you hung up. And how are you doing?" Mina grinned and quickly came to the point, "I am planning on going out Saturday with two friends and wanted to know if you wanted to join in?" Suspiciously, Celeste asked, "Who, and are they male or female?" Mina admitted, "Jamie and DJ, both of whom are male. Listen, Jamie just broke up with his girlfriend, and I want to have fun with him without trying to date him. And DJ is a close friend of both of ours. So are you in?" Celeste assented, "Sure. But can I quickly say one thing? You are for once thinking before you act. And you actually followed my advice. I think the earth is going to part and swallow us." Oddly, Mina coldly said, "Don't joke like that." And Celeste felt awkward, for she rarely misread people. But a moment later Mina acted as if nothing had happened.

Thursday, March 19

Tara beckoned Derek to enter her workroom. "Derek, what do you think of the Evolite society. You can be honest, for Fauna only has cameras in all public rooms," Tara greeted. Derek was startled into revealing, "She what...? But it couldn't be for security reasons..." Tara sunk into her comfiest chair and indicated with a hand for him to sit as well. "She does it for her security. Fauna is a tyrant. She is an unfair dictator, who is quite ruthless. In addition, she is half mad. She tries to overcome this by being a zealous control-freak, which in turn makes her more insane. The cameras are there to let her be able to monitor our lives thoroughly. With this knowledge, she plays us as pawns."

Derek stuttered, "I-if she is s-s-so ba-ad, then wh-y do y-you stay?" Tara tried to word her complicated emotions the best she could. "Fauna isn't evil, though she does sometimes give that impression. You are probably wondering why you should trust a traitor to her own kind," and Derek sincerely nodded, "Child, Fauna has a quite large amount of faults. But she also isn't entirely bad. She feeds us, clothes us, shelters us, civilizes us, teaches us, and allows us a great deal of personal freedom. Can you say that every earthling born has all these things?"

"No," Derek admitted, thinking of slavery and oppression experienced in earth's past and probably happening still in some remote areas. "But why do you keep contradicting yourself?" Tara smiled wryly, "Because, Fauna is the very image of contradiction. I'm telling you about Fauna's faults for two reasons: To save Annie and to save you. I know how to play the game of survival here, and have managed to do quite well. But Annie's chances of winning are being stolen by Fauna at every opportunity. Annie is too sweet and innocent, and Fauna hates Annie. I suspect this hatred exists because both love Colonel Monarch Butterfly of the Swarm, but he only loves Annie in return. And you, you are soon going to be so under Fauna's control that you will never evade her grasp. You don't need Fauna to survive, you have a planet and home to go back to. And I am hoping that you can help me bring down Fauna long enough for both you and Annie to escape her unscathed."

Derek let this sink in. This does sound like what observations I've made. But I also realized how much backstabbing goes on here. I must not set myself up for Tara to bring me down. But, if I can use this situation correctly, I can succeed at her stated goal. Finally Derek told Tara, "I'm willing to hear and see what you want me to. But I'm here to warn you, if you try to push me off a cliff, I'll drag you down with me. If I stumble off that cliff from my own actions, your involvement remains unknown." Tara looked smug as she replied, "I would have thought lowly of you if you had said otherwise. Here is the game-plan I thought of using: record the current mission and use the knowledge as an edge."

Derek perplexfully asked, "Mission?" Tara looked sharply at Derek and said, "The reason why we are here and why you are allowed on the ship. Fauna uses us Evolites to steal Bright Futures, for whatever purposes she has. That is our sole required task. Don't you remember Camel (3^rd of the Hoof Generals; m.c.k.a. Mel) managing to taint yours? The only reason you were chosen to aid us as a native informant was that the Brightness of your Future was taken, rather than your bright future itself. If it had been your future itself, you'd already be dead. This is the only success we've had, otherwise the Sailor senshi have gotten in the way. If it weren't for you, Fauna would have persecuted half the ship by now."

Derek's face was a combination of being strickened, furious, bewildered, and betrayed. "What exactly is a Bright Future?" Tara kindly told him, "It is what makes it possible for a person to achieve great things. It is something you are born with; it's partially initiative and determination to achieve your goal, and partially a guarantee that you'll reach that goal." Derek was horrified. I never knew I had the potential to become something great. And Fauna took that away from me. They raped my spirit of my destiny. And instead of leaving me to lead a miserable existence alone, she parades me around like a trophy, and is using my knowledge to do this to other people. Do the Sailor senshi know the whole situation?

"Tara, you've got to let me go and warn the senshi!" Derek desperately exclaimed. Tara gently told him, "I can't. The crew messing up by sending you to the last mission scene has made Fauna adamant about keeping you here. Even if you did decide to elude me and force the crew to give you the coordinates and send you back to earth, you would still be stuck here. See that armband on your arm? Fauna has got you wrapped under her finger by that device. It can easily compel or repel you from the ship. And currently, it is set on compelled. This not-so-amiable device can kill you if you go against its compulsions. I haven't quite figured out how to neutralize it. Besides, Fauna has sent out spy cameras for this mission. She would spot you there with no problem. But on the upside, I bugged the cameras, so we can view the whole mission from the comfort of here. Now, if you're done accepting reason, let's watch." All Derek could do was mentally curse his helplessness with every extensively vulgar and damning phrase he knew. That, and watch.

Gabrielle had researched her target carefully, knowing her daily routine. Today, Thursday, was to be the actual execution, of the mission. Gabrielle saw Deena separate ways from Owen, and saw George follow Owen. Gabrielle then came up to Deena and said, "You're Deena Fends, right?" Deena turned and said, "Yes. Who are you?" Gabrielle levely responded, "I'm Gabrielle, and I've heard you're a marvelous fencer. And I was curious if you would be willing to have a quick bout with me?" Deena cautioned, "I hope you realize I rarely lose. Now, since I've warned you, we can go to the fitness center. People are rarely there at this time of day." And so Gabrielle was set to perform her mission.

Tara was fascinated by the fencing match between Gabrielle (3^rd Captain of the Hoof; a.k.a. Gazelle) and Deena, the current target. Both were naturals, but also had spent years training. Each parry was done with amazing deftness and grace. But Tara knew that Gabrielle was the better fencer. So at first it surprised Tara when it looked like Gabrielle couldn't quite reach a hit. Then Tara understood why. The attempt to reach, and not quite making it, left Gabrielle vulnerable. And Deena immediately took advantage of it. It was immediately after Deena won that she took off her helmet and extended a hand to help Gabrielle up. Deena exclaimed, "That was a great match." Gabrielle only smiled.

Derek asked, "I thought Gazelle would win. So why is she smiling that she lost?" Tara replied, eyes not leaving the orb that showed the scene simultaneously occurring, "Simple, her goal is to obtain the bright future, not win the fencing match. Gabrielle accepted the batch of phuter spray that requires the victim to have their guard down. Notice how she didn't seem to quite be able to hit the target. That was simple deception. Gabrielle could have easily made that hit. But that would have made the target tense up, being more uneasy. So by letting the target think she won, Gabrielle has her in a vulnerable situation. You just watch, for in a moment Gabrielle will attack." And Tara's prediction proved true, for instead of putting out her arm for help getting up, Gabrielle sprayed Deena with the phuter spray. Derek felt wretched just watching Deena scream in total agony. Then the aura of her Bright Future emerged, resembling a glowing white mist. And for a moment, Derek's eyes were dazzled by the precious aura.

Gazelle sent a signal for 2^nd Captain Ox of the Hoof (m.c.k.a. George) to attack. She had just been ambushed by the senshi, and the Solar Sailor was busy in a trance, purifying the Bright Future. So now was the time for Ox to strike, and he had to do it before any of the other senshi arrived, or the Solar Sailor was battle ready. Ox quickly sprayed Owen with the special phuter spray.

He had the Bright Fate Dimmer ready the moment the aura emerged and placed the receiver next to his ear, the rest of the machine beside Owen. Then he punched in 'Owen Seave' on the keypad, and spoke clearly into the receiver. "Co-Owner with Deena Fends of Fends-Seave Fencing Academy, bringing on the revival of fencing with their world renown skills." The Bright Fate Dimmer sucked up the fate, leaving Owen looking like a half-drowned kid, each gasp of air being a struggle. The machine hummed and made mechanical gurgles before a yellow light went on. Ox then spoke the alternate future, one Fauna herself had suggested. "Will die in the greatest fencing match in earth's history against Deena Fends, where both shall strike the exposed throat simultaneously." Ox knew Gazelle had created the same future for Deena, so didn't need to worry about paradoxes and such. However, the Bright Fate Dimmer shot a compact ball of what was Owen's future. Owen's body twitched violently once, before ceasing to move altogether.

Coincidentally, the Outer senshi, Sailor Fuchsia Moon, Phoebe, and Artemis had chosen that moment to arrive. Fuchsia Moon looked hurt the moment she saw Owen, and Pluto struggled to hold her detachment. A voice spoke which didn't sound like the cheerful friendly voice of the Rini they all knew and loved. No, it was rich and strong, regal and full of authority. And Fuchsia Moon knew how to phrase her lines to have the desired affect, remnants of her schooling in the future. "Petty Minion of the Evolite scum, it is unfortunate you won't have the opportunity to report to your Mistress. Because, that report would let her realize not to cross paths with the Sailor senshi, nor Earth in general. In the name of the Moon and Earth of yesterday, today, and tomorrow, I am Sailor Fuchsia Moon, the angel of a divine tomorrow. I give you one last opportunity to receive mercy, should you decide to surrender. Shall you wave the white flag?"

Among the Evolites, it was common knowledge that Ox was little more than a big, dumb, strong, hulking brute. While many of the condescending words and nuances of Fuchsia Moon's speech flew right over his head, he did have enough sense to realize she was insulting him. First it was her tone, secondly she called him a Petty Minion, thirdly she called the Evolites scum and Fauna a mistress. And finally, she implied he was weak. It took a moment for him to fully realize this before he humbly walked towards her. He looked submissive enough that no one thought he might present danger. Maybe had someone with telepathy been present, they could have warned Fuchsia Moon. For none of the present senshi had enough potential for Phoebe to so much as feel someone's mind.

This time the fight between Beryl and Serenity ended in a matter of moments after Celeste arrived. Serenity smiled as she said, "You've laid out a good foundation for change. I'm glad you noticed the internal problems Princess Pluto has been facing. Though, I think that you should be a factor in making her more welcomed, not uninvolved, nor in charge of it. But that is for you to handle. But my dear niece, you must help to make them strong. They don't yet realize the potential their new attacks hold, only the price paid. You all need some intensive training sessions, even you. Still, I feel I must tell you something. Your mother, Dutchess Clarice, and your father, Lord Starblade, would be proud."

This time Celeste was able to talk and make intelligent comments. "Serenity, you are mistaken. While I appreciate the compliment, you've forgotten. Neither of my parents have been known by those names within the Sun Kingdom since the day they've been married. While mother was Dutchess Clarice in the Moon Kingdom, I think she and father would rather be remembered by their most recent titles. King Sunblaze and Queen Clarity of the Sun Kingdom." Serenity agreed, "You are right. Clarity always was adamant about keeping the Sun Kingdom and Moon Kingdom apart. I still never understood why she wouldn't allow the Sun to be ruled under the Moon's light."

Celeste knew why, and gently explained, "It is because the Sun had to stand on its own. It is the same as to why the Stellar Empire from which father descended didn't rule over the Sun Kingdom. Their marriage ended the Stellar Wars over who ruled the Sun, and if either side was given power over it, the treaty would be dissolved. Autonomy would not have been enough. Mother did it for her independence as well as the Sun's, but also for the good of the Moon Kingdom."

Serenity's eyes were distant, revelation having finally hit her. "None of my advisors nor my sister had ever explained it to me like that. Most of my advisors thought I should annex the Sun, even if it took overthrowing my own sister. The others, and Clarity, always would just hand over charts and over pompous prose. My beloved Pandion probably could have explained it, but he was so ill that he couldn't bother with frivolous things like that. So I finally just accepted it without question. There were bigger matters to worry over, such as the training of the next generation of senshi, overcoming internal political turmoil each planet experienced, and the battles. Sometime I'll tell you all about the battles fought within my lifetime. And when you have the chance, remind the girls about the true Silver Millennium. They are old enough to know more than the fantasy tales Luna and Artemis have told them. Afterall, someday they are going revive the Moon Kingdom. Sometime, maybe you can bring them to visit me. After you find the Scriptures. You had enough training to use them. Until then, let there always be light in your heart."

Celeste was awed by this side of Serenity. But she was also warmed by farewell she was given. 'Let there always be light in your heart.' Celeste for a moment remembered all 312 ways she knew how to say this phrase. It was an adaptation of a Stellar and Lunar blessing. In the Stellar language, the blessing was "Sidus gon luz bakonna arlena-ba-shenir vith," or in the most frequent (approximate) translation "May starlight touch your destiny." And in the Lunar tongue, "Let your heart guide the way." But on the Sun Kingdom, the refuge to all cultures, especially the Stellar and Lunar, it was blended to create a endearing blessing. That was what touched Celeste, that Serenity said the blessing unique to the Sun Kingdom, an acknowledgment of Celeste's unique heritage. For a moment, Celeste remembered how she was extensively taught fourteen languages from infancy: Genoikan (ancient and trade tongue), Stellar (Imperial and Standard), Lunar (formal, archaic, and modern), Intergalactic, Greek, Latin, English, Japanese, Spanish, and French. Before the Silver Millennium's demise, Celeste had been fluent in 120 languages, and eighty additional dialects. Since the Sun Kingdom had held so many cultures, it didn't have a Solar language. While its official language had been Intergalactic, in order to get anywhere on the Sun, you had to have known Intergalactic and some form of Lunar, Stellar, Genoikan, and two of Earth's languages.

"Love!" a masculine voice called. Celeste was once more in the beautiful palace with white marble floors and opaque rainbow colored glass walls. I'm home. The Solar palace. But it should be in ruins, after the blast Beryl sent. But it is just as I remember before the fight against the Negaverse. And that's... damn, I can't remember him. Celeste once more faced the boy of her dreams. She knew he was her beloved from the Silver Millennium, but besides that, she could neither see nor remember him. He outstretched his hand to just barely be in reach of hers. The very tips of their fingers touched, and he joyously said, "I'll return to you soon, my beloved Angel. Celeste, your heart knows me. Don't let your mind forgetting worry you. I'd be disappointed in you if it had been your top priority.

After ten minutes, Solar finally got out of her trance. She was a little shaky, but did Ivy Replacement. She then removed the Petal Dome. Somehow her grogginess must have made her susceptible to minute dust particles. For she was facing Gazelle as she let loose a powerful sneeze. Since it is impossible to sneeze with open eyes, Solar had closed her eyes briefly. The moment she opened them, she was majorly disoriented. Images wouldn't stay still. She lifted her right arm to rub her eyes, and she gasped. She was lifting two right arms, her own and Gazelle's. It must have been that she sneezed her telepathy so that she had complete control over Gazelle's body, as well as her own. There was a slight pressure from Gazelle's mind trying to regain control over her own body.

Solar shut her eyes tight as she told the baffled senshi her discovery. Both her own voice and Gazelle's spoke, "Guys, I need help. Apparently, I'm in control of both my body and our lovely enemy, Gazelle. Mind telling me where the hell Phoebe is?" Jupiter said, "We got another attack a minute after you went into a trance. The Outers and Fuschia Moon went to handle it." Mercury added, "Phoebe and Artemis tagged along." Solar (and Gazelle's body) took a deep breath and sighed, "I guess I can try to contact her." Solar paused for a moment and tried to contact Phoebe. Unfortunately, this was the very moment Phoebe couldn't be reached. So she tried to remove her consciousness from Gazelle's body. The attempts of tugging her mind was accompanied by dragging motions, which were mirrored by Gazelle. It looked like both were marionettes being controlled by a puppeteer. Instead, all of Solar's consciousness went into Gazelle's body. Images swirled before her, Gazelle's memories. They were flashing by so fast that it was hurting the Solar Sailor.

Reflexively Solar slammed down mental shields. At first she was trapped in Gazelle's head, but somehow she managed to pull her mind literally through the shields so that she was on the other side. Solar then sprung her mind back to its rightful place. She used what little knowledge she knew about shields and wound the tightest shields she could. By doing this, Gazelle was thrown to the ground. All during this the Inners had exchanged bewildered looks. Solar turned to them and announce, "I'm back to normal. Now, let's finish business."

Fauna had been indisposed when she heard of what had been going on. She had been 'testing' Ermine's physical prowess. The link between them was still essential, and quite frail. So unfortunately she was being very intimate when she had her onset of rage at the failures of her underlings. And her fury broke the link, causing Ermine to crumple on top of her. He was dead, and since necromancy was not one of her abilities, even over animals, he was going to stay dead. Fauna could do nothing but snarl for Colonel Mare to immediately collect Gazelle. Fauna then bloodily took out her anger on the warm corpse. Each rip was made with thoughts of the senshi being shredded with her hands.

A hooded robed enchantress stood alone in the dark of night. She was not evil, quite the opposite. Her name was Melissa, and had apprenticed under Merlin himself. Aging was not a concern to her; sustaining youth was something she mastered centuries ago. But for now, she was searching. Searching for the next hope for the future. Arthur Pendragon had been Merlin's pick. Now she was searching for his descendant to wield the power of Excalibur and bring the revival of Camelot and Avalon. My search is almost done. The next heir is close. I shall succeed in this stage of the plan by tomorrow night. If not, I'll withdraw my claim as an enchantress. Merlin, you won't be disappointed.

Hope you enjoyed this episode. I assume the amount of action was satisfactory, though since there was overlapping time-wise, I'm hoping it wasn't confusing. Be prepared for more upcoming episodes and an entirely new look for the whole site. Please E-mail me at [email protected]. Keep reading. =vD
Love, Sailor Eeveon Girl: Sunday November 4, 2001 (day of the sun and Celeste)