GWA42E

**START**

**Diamond Vs Nemarash**.

The prince advanced slowly but surely towards the place of the fight. Many memories sone of them pleasant, others not, were piling up in his head. His childhood in Nemesis, growing up amidst the admiration he had for his father King Coraíon and the love he had for his mother Queen Amethyst Nairía. He was equally fond of his younger brother Prince Sapphire. His family, descended from a lineage of several generations, came from Earth. The story went that her ancestors, led by Prince Corundum, first arrived on the planet Nemesis. That desolate world was little more than a rock floating in space. They had no choice after being expelled from their home planet by the immortal Queen Serenity. Thus, Diamond's own great-grandfather founded the kingdom of Nemesis. Then that great dream came. The inhabitants of the planet spent many centuries in a kind of deep freeze, and when they awoke, they were faced with the hard task of making the cold, desolate world prosperous and habitable. Corundom and his successor, King Coraíon, father of Diamond himself, succeeded by dint of many sacrifices, with the only help of that dark energy, lethal to the pioneers, but very powerful when it came to giving light and warmth to the planet. But their ancestors never gave up the idea of returning to their mother world. The progress that was made was continued by their descendants, and little by little that idea faded away. So much so that when Diamond's father came to the throne, he married a princess of the moon, a vassal of the earthly rulers, in the hope that peace would be established between the two worlds. Thus, relations were normalized, and concord reigned in the Solar System. Nemesis was now a prosperous and beautiful world, though not as beautiful as Earth. It was on Sapphire's tenth birthday, Diamond was about twelve years old, that the Wiseman arrived. He claimed to come from a world far away and settled in as an ambassador with the purpose of fostering friendship between the two. No one suspected him of any wrongdoing, despite his mysterious appearance, and his face always covered by that deep black robe that revealed nothing of his body. The Wiseman explained to the benevolent Coraíon that this was a form that preserved his vital essence in the, for him, hostile environment of Nemesis. And the Wiseman's name protected his true one, which was not to be uttered because of a sacred vow he held. Now, with the perspective of elapsed time and the truth, Diamond cursed his arrival, but then no one suspected anything. On the contrary, years passed, and the princes grew up amidst genuine admiration for this character who always helped and advised their father and themselves in the best possible way.

-My mother did suspect him. And then, in our naivety, we didn't realize it. She never trusted him. - He remembered now with regret. -

          His mother was a beautiful, brave, and determined woman. Although her health deteriorated rapidly after she came to live in Nemesis. But she always wanted to look good in front of him and his brother. And she did not hesitate to challenge Wiseman who was a coward who never dared to confront her.

-That was what killed her. - The prince sighed, now full of dismay at the memory. -  "And I could not stand by her side. I will never forgive myself for that.

                As he continued to reminisce, when he turned seventeen, Emerald and Rubeus, both from noble families, arrived at court. Both entered the service of the house of Nemesis. He still remembered the Emerald of that time, who became the queen's maid, serving as her senior chambermaid. At the time she was a gentle and innocent little girl, always kind and shy towards him. Diamond did not know what she felt, he never knew until it was too late, and his ambitions had blinded him. Two more years passed and the four sisters of the Ayakashi family arrived, also belonging to the nobility, but of a lesser rank. They were assigned to the service of Rubeus, an enthusiastic boy and faithful follower of Diamond's own plans. For Rubeus, his mother's illness and her long and agonizing convalescence, coupled with the Wiseman's accusations against Earth, blaming her for his planet's past and future ills, caused him to begin to accumulate hatred and resentment against his home world. The chance to see if his suspicions were true came when his father King Coraíon sent him on a diplomatic mission. The arrogant young prince, unaccustomed to humbling himself before anyone but his parents, received a cold welcome, but was taken with the beauty of the legendary queen, who was apparently eternally young and immortal. When he returned to Nemesis two years later, his mother had died, and his father was also ill. The Wiseman then revealed to him that it was all due to a plot hatched by King Endimion, Serenity's husband, who was keeping her as a prisoner in his own palace. Diamond's father died shortly afterwards, and all the evidence pointed to an assassin from Earth. The prince vowed revenge and, aided by the Wiseman, subjected himself and his people to the dark crystal he possessed to increase his powers to a superhuman limit. He built a powerful war fleet that razed the kingdom of the Silver Millennium and Neo Crystal Tokyo, except for the palace, protected by Queen Serenity's guardians and which he himself gave orders to respect. The reason for this was that he wanted to marry the queen and win her love as well as rule the Earth. But due to the failure to take the sovereign and her palace in the future he had only one option. On the advice of that necromancer, he sent the Ayakashi sisters and Rubeus back in time, with the mission to destroy the foundations of the future earthly kingdom and to kill the daughter of Serenity and Endimion, who had fled to the past for help. Thus, he thought that the palace would fall into his power. But when he discovered that, in the past, Serenity was Sailor Moon, he wanted to have her at all costs. However, the attempts of his subordinates failed one after the other. The sisters chose to betray him and live as normal women on Earth. Rubeus failed miserably and was destroyed in space along with his ship. Emerald did not better. By then the girl had become an arrogant and unbearable woman. The black crystal, apart from her heartbreak in love, had darkened her soul like all the others, turning her into a cesspool of hatred, ambition, and jealousy. It also ended her days with a barren death. By now, though, Diamond didn't care about that at all. He and the others were only clinging to their absurd plans of conquest and destruction, they were pawns of the Wiseman. Only Sapphire, more dedicated to controlling the cauldron that powered Nemesis, realized the truth, and wanted to tell him.

-But he couldn't. That's when that bastard first tried to kill my brother. - He thought in anger. -

             On that occasion, though, the Wiseman failed. Sapphire escaped to Earth and that necromancer accused him of being a traitor, even the warriors themselves were protecting him which seemed to support those charges of sedition. But even then, Diamond did not believe it. Then his brother was killed before his eyes by that cursed sorcerer. That began to make him see beyond his own foolish aims. Another thing that surprised him, though he welcomed it at first, was the presence of the Black Lady. A mysterious, attractive, yet cruel woman, she obeyed the Wiseman without batting an eyelid. He was shocked to learn that she was Serenity's manipulated daughter, and when he finally had Sailor Moon face to face with him and the hypnotic suggestion, he used on her (a gift of the Wiseman) failed, she revealed the truth. That sinister hooded man was a traitor who only obeyed the designs of a kind of demon called "Phantom of Death".  He had been behind all the betrayals and misfortunes that had plagued the Diamond family and their world. The prince wanted to fight him and put an end to it but was killed while trying to protect Sailor Moon. In his death throes he entrusted her with the future welfare of his subjects. He later died, at least repentant for all the bad things he had done, with the forgiveness the future queen granted him. In Heaven he realized how wrong he had been, and the memory of his loved ones haunted him.

- If only I could live again and get my family back," - he declared, full of regret and anger. - "I swear everything would be different.

           Luckily, he was reunited with his younger brother there and learned that his parents were happy in the afterlife. Only one person still troubled his heart. He thought of Emerald who, Landar told him, had fallen into hell to purge her guilt. She did not die repentant of her wrongdoings like he or Sapphire, or the rest of the companions he had met there. All former enemies of the sailors who became their friends. And, above all, he was very happy when Roy appeared and told them how the sisters lived on Earth, that they were normal and happy girls, just as Sailor Moon had assured him before he died. It was then that his hope was reborn, and he also believed it was possible to be happy if he had a second chance. And particularly if he could give another one to Emerald, sunk in the despair of loneliness and eternal suffering. With the additional incentive of a bet that his partner Roy had won, Diamond wanted to get the girl out of such horror. But that mysterious Landar revealed to him that first he must face the threat together with his companions and save the Earth. Then he would be truly rehabilitated and free to try to help the hapless girl. How to do that, he would tell him when they returned victorious.

-That was your promise, Landar. But first I must be the one to keep mine..." - He said to himself by way of encouragement. -

                  And now the young prince, with a new conscience and a new way of living, a product of the maturity he had acquired, was more than determined to win. He would return to Heaven and ask for the wizard's help in trying to save Emerald. Finally, he knew that she had always loved him and that she had also loved Queen Amethyst, whom she had served with devotion as if she had been her own mother. Diamond had loved that unfortunate girl equally, though more like a sister, but that might well have been different but for his unhealthy love for Serenity and the influence of the nefarious Wiseman. So, freed from all that, he would slay all demons that stood between him and his purpose. Thus, he awaited his opponent who arrived within seconds of him, standing at his side with a sadistic and ferocious gesture painted on that hideous, infernal face. But that did nothing to daunt the prince, who sentenced him firmly.

- All your companions have fallen and now it is your turn. You will follow in their paths; I will be no less than the warriors who have gone before me.

- You don't know who you're up against, you fool! - Nemarash, who, unlike his companions, had an attractive human countenance with the only exception of two bright red burning eyes, was tall, though not as tall as Diamond himself. - I am one of the finest chieftains on Avernus. Baron of Granukul, the burning steppe, and personal escort to the great Mephisto.

- Well, that's good. - I am Diamond prince of Nemesis, the tenth planet of this solar system, and I do not presume so much. Besides, I should warn you that I'm not a one-armed fighter either. - He allowed himself to add with a grim smile. -

-Since you say so, we'll see about that in a moment, vain mortal! - his enemy laughed. - We shall see if your strength backs up your bold words. I am not as easily defeated as my companions. - He asserted as he began to concentrate energy, wrapping himself in an intense greenish hue. – Ha, ha, ha! he observes.

- That's all you can do! - Diamond exclaimed with disdain, enveloping himself in a powerful silver aura and shouting. - "Learn!

- Now you'll see," - the demon responded, making the ground tremble with his power. -

The companions of the prince of Nemesis followed the preliminaries of the fight with great interest. Although they might be uneasy in their inner selves about the power that this demon was displaying, none of them conveyed that feeling. The only one who decided to speak up was Roy.

- They are very evenly matched. - He assessed, crossing his arms, and studying the energies of both contenders to declare. - But I think our little prince is somewhat superior.

- That demon is very strong," - Ail admitted in a tone that tried to avoid concern without succeeding. - He would have beaten me for sure, thank goodness he didn't fight me! Diamond will have to be very careful...

- Don't worry," – A relaxed Sapphire interjected. - My brother has a few tricks up his sleeve. A technique we've been practicing with Piccolo.

- What technique is that? - Nephrite asked, looking at his partner in intrigue. - Do you know, Roy?

- Yes, I know what it is. - He nodded thoughtfully and affirmed. - That technique is very interesting, if he executes it well it will be very difficult for him to lose the fight.

- What is it about? - Sapphire asked. - He didn't want to tell me what it was about, he said it would be a surprise.

- Be patient and you'll know as soon as you see it. What's more, you've all tried it in training. - Roy asked them all, who were waiting expectantly, - "anyway, it is a complex technique, he will probably only use it as a last resort.

The female warriors for their part had managed to evade the remaining guardian demons and were once again in a corner, awaiting the arrival of their companions. In the meantime, they occupied the waiting moments watching the fighters. Usagi couldn't get over her amazement and said to Mamoru who nodded in admiration as well.

- It's amazing, the strength Diamond has reached is tremendous! I'm so glad he's on our side now!

- Yes," - Mamoru agreed. - The prince had a good heart at heart and was artfully used by the representatives of evil. But now that we can count on him and the others, I have great faith in victory.

- That demon also looks very strong. - Ami observed, leaning back next to Usagi. -

- I hope he can defeat him," - Rei wished. - Diamond can do it. I feel a lot of determination and desire to win.

- I hope so. For everyone's sake. - Makoto sighed, trying to untangle her ponytail, which was in a sticky tangle of hair. -

- We're cool for now. - Minako whispered, tying the red ribbon she wore behind her now messy, stained, straight hair. - Let's hope it's an interesting fight and the rest of the devils are distracted for a while longer. Lest they discover what we have taken from them.

The others hoped so too. They looked at those stones piled up and covered under branches. And they waited impatiently for their companions. After a few more minutes, and after stealthily evading the enemy cordon, which continued to watch this new fight with rapt attention, their friends finally arrived. Haruka told them what they had been doing with the Justicieras. She declared with great admiration, which was certainly not her usual style.

-They are excellent women, good fighters, with great courage and bravery! It must have been hard for you to face them and defeat them.

- Of course, but they have been a good investment in every way. - Rei smiled and said proudly. - They are now great friends and loyal companions.

- Yes, I hope we can be reunited with them when this is all over. - Ami interjected. -

- Look! - Michiru exclaimed, pointing to the battle site. - They have terrible strength! They even glow. -

         And so, it was. The glows of both illuminated the fighting arena, fusing their silver and green hues in a silent clash of lights.

-This is about to begin. - Pluto declared, leaning on his scepter. - These tremendous forces are going to be unleashed at any moment.

And so, it was. The two fighters went from display and concentration of energy to offence. The first round was as fast paced as it was ferocious. They hit each other, parrying each other's attacks with a speed that made it very difficult to follow their movements. They separated again, landing facing each other and appraising each other after that first contact.

- Not a bad fighter, mortal. - The demon conceded with a respectful tone that nevertheless changed into a threatening one when he said - but it's time to decide the fight!

            And with great speed he launched a ball of energy into the sky that split into three, all of which launched themselves at Diamond.

- With such a stupid attack you intend to decide the fight? - the prince, who dodged the balls laughed, but they followed him. - I've had enough of this! - he shouted, throwing three more energy balls that collided and destroyed each other.

Nemarash took the opportunity to materialize a blowgun and spit some projectiles at his enemy. The boy dodged all but one, which hit him in the arm. The arm was immediately paralyzed. Diamond felt him stiff and unable to make any movement, he cursed between his teeth for this carelessness.

- Ha, ha, ha, ha! - Nemarash laughed. - Now you're lost! - He howled triumphantly and lunged at his opponent and struck him viciously in the face, "I'll make you suffer a little before you die!

The attack knocked the prince to the ground, and he struggled to his feet, raising his head and throwing a bolt of lightning with his other arm that the demon deflected with another. Diamond's smashed a nearby boulder. He took advantage of the situation and struggled to his feet, holding his injured arm with his other hand.

- Don't think you've beaten me," - the boy replied, concentrating his energy into a large ball that he split in two, throwing both at his adversary. -

- Ha, ha, ha! - Nemarash scoffed. - You're a bad mimic, you've only managed to produce two balls.

- Wait and see what a surprise..." - his opponent grinned with a malicious gesture. -

The balls, to the demon's astonishment, took human form and attacked him.  The bewildered Nemarash fought them both off at once. Diamond had time to remove the weights he had been fighting with until then. The demon destroyed one of the figures. The other returned to its owner, who absorbed it and regained some strength. He also felt lighter now, which allowed him to strike his enemy and knock him down without the latter being able to dodge him.

- How did you do that? - the commander of the horde shouted, visibly surprised. -

- Duplication technique! - the prince of Nemesis exclaimed, ignoring his opponent. -

Concentrating, Diamond split himself in two, hitting twice the surprised demon who didn't know who to attack.

- Damn you! - Nemarash angrily howled as he recovered from the onslaught of blows, he had suffered. - I will defeat you, even if you multiply a hundredfold! - he asserted as he tried to hit the two Diamonds who were dodging him, exhausting him. -

Sapphire watched the scene with visible elation. Ail and Nephrite also looked on with satisfaction.

- My brother will crush him! - he exclaimed with confidence as he raised a fist. - Now that he's doubled up, he'll be able to take him without difficulty.

Roy, however, shook his head, taking care to dampen the excessive morale that had taken hold of them all.

- Remember the training. Your brother has only doubled in appearance. But that hasn't multiplied his strength, far from it, on the contrary, it has divided it. Master Son Goku told me that a friend of his did it too, and that he used that trick against him in a tournament.

- It's true! I remember now. - Nephrite affirmed. - Master Piccolo played the same trick on us. -And only Diamond noticed. - Ail admitted. -

- So should I join again," -Sapphire said, feeling disoriented. -

The questioned one gave him a thoughtful look and answered.

- Diamond is very clever, he wants his enemy to think exactly what you thought. That guy is blinded by the rage of combat and doesn't realize the trick, or at least I hope he does. If that's the case, everything will be fine.

- Besides," - Nephrite interjected, not without concern. - He's not using his right arm. Something must be happening to him.

- That's true. - Ail agreed. - It's not normal, and I don't think it's due to any tactics. Nor is it due to fatigue.

That filled the group with unease, none of them could see the demon's darting attack. Nemarash for his part slowly came into focus and hit one of the Diamonds by smashing him against a rock. The other went to help his doppelganger. Then their enemy attacked them and the two merged again. At least the demon was more tired than his opponent and this partly made up for the latter's wounded arm. The prince charged again, concentrated, creating another doppelganger that attacked the demon. It tried to hit him, but it was only a hologram that was pierced by the punch. Nevertheless, Diamond noticed his arm growing numb, the paralysis would soon reach his shoulder. He needed to eat a bean, but he could not. His opponent would not allow him to get close to his companions.

- Damn it! I'm too weak to use the Kaio ken technique. - The prince thought uneasily. -

He remembered perfectly well the words of his mentor the Kaio God. To use this technique, it was essential to be completely focused and to control his ki and his body one hundred percent. The slightest lapse in concentration could be disastrous. Piccolo once told him the same thing. During a training session he did with them, while Roy was practicing with Master Son Goku.

-Piccolo-sensei. - He remembered asking him, along with the other three of his teammates. - Will you fight all four at the same time?

-Yes, that won't be a problem for you. We know you can fight all of us. - Sapphire added. -

-I'll fight, but each of you separately. - Their mentor replied. -

-Then we'll have nothing to do. - Nephrite sighed. -

-You never know. - His master rebutted. - Don't give up before you start.

-Well, which of us will start? - Ail wanted to know. -

What surprised them was the sly smile on his mentor's face when he asked with a tone full of irony...

- How about all of us at the same time...?

And without any of them being able to open their mouths, they watched in amazement as their instructor crossed his forearms to lower his head and emitted a greenish aura...

- What is he doing? - Nephrite wanted to know, not believing, like the others, what they then saw... "Eh?

And to the astonishment of the group, Piccolo split into not one but three more copies of himself. Now there were four Namekians watching the astonished youngsters with the same amused look.

-Enough wasting time. - All these doppelgangers declared in unison. They attacked each boy respectively. - Defend yourselves!

- Which one is the real one? - Ail asked, trying to stop the blows coming at him. -

-I don't know. Mine looks very real. - Sapphire replied, barely evading her rival's attacks. -

- What difference does it make? - Nephrite was able to add with the same problem. - They must be just as powerful.

-Let's fight and that's that. We'll worry about which one is the original later. - Diamond, who was now blocking his rival's attacks, was able to add. -

And it wasn't long before those doubles took down Ail, Nephrite and Sapphire. However, Diamond was still resisting. The boy dodged an attack and received a kind of sarcastic compliment from his opponent.

-Very good, little prince. You don't defend yourself badly...

-But you seem weaker. - The young man from Nemesis observed sharply. -

- Do you think so? - his adversary smiled. -

-I think so. - The boy responded who, gathering his energy, exclaimed. - Kaio-ken!

And emitting a reddish aura, he increased his speed and strength for a few moments, managing to land several blows on his opponent that threw him to the ground. It was then that Piccolo stood up and nodded with an approving smile. Instantly, the other three Namekians rejoined him as one...

-Well done, Diamond. - He congratulated him this time sincerely. - You have realized the weakness of this trick.

-There was no original and no copy. It was your life force divided among four, wasn't it? - the prince said. -

-Right. - His interlocutor agreed. - So, remember. If you manage to deceive your enemy, you will have an advantage. But it is risky. When you divide yourself, your resources will do the same.  And your adversary could realize it just as you have now.

-I can see why Roy told us he'd be sparring with Son Goku today. - Sapphire interjected. –

-He already knew about this, didn't he? - Nephrite asked. -

-He did. - His instructor conceded. - He's learned that lesson. And another thing. Be careful with the Kaio-ken technique when you split up. When you reunite, your body will be too exhausted to use it properly. Under no pretext should you use it.

-Although Roy told us that Master Son Goku told him that he used it several times when he was exhausted. - Diamond opposed who did admit to it. - However, he advised our colleague not to do so. That he could have serious problems with his ki.

His interlocutor then simply crossed his arms and sentenced between amused and reproachful.

- “Goku-San has never been one for risk-avoidance. But he is the exception to the rule. You, however, are not. Do what he tells you, but never try to do what he does. You are not on his level. Therefore, instead of making a fatal mistake, try to make your adversary do it.

              Diamond was now reflecting on this. His master's words were true. No matter how much he wanted to, he could never match those mythical warriors. Besides, he was suffering from that paralysis that was gaining more and more ground. And Nemarash, who seemed to guess the degree of difficulty afflicting his adversary, grinned evilly, and spat as he regained his footing after his misguided lunge.

- Do all the cheap illusionist tricks you want, but when the paralysis reaches your heart, you will be dead. All I must do is stall you and wait. Your techniques are useless. You could only avert your end by finishing me off, and I assure you that won't happen. Ha, ha, ha!

And the prince realized that his enemy wasn't lying, he would have to do something to finish him off before that happened. But what...?

-What would my masters do in a case like this? - Diamond questioned himself in a hurry. -

            Meanwhile the Justicieras were still in the church. Karaberasu had woken up and after a few moments to come back to reality she began to get restless. Beruche approached her with an inquisitive gesture when she saw her sister standing up, looking through the few cracks that allowed her to see outside.

- What is it, Kalie? - she asked with some concern. -

- We're surrounded. - She told her with obvious concern. -

- Devils? - Bertie asked in alarm. -

- No, I don't think so. But I sense hostile presences. We must protect the children and the rest of the people. - Her sister signaled to the others. -

Petz approached at once, Cooan and Tom were still on the other side keeping watch. When the boy reached them, he shrugged in bewilderment. He had seen no one and noticed no sign of the enemy. But if his girlfriend's sister said so, she must have had her reasons.

- Where are they? - Cooan wanted to know when she joined her sisters. -

- Everywhere! And they are approaching fast! - Karaberasu exclaimed, her expression tightening. -

The others looked at each other in astonishment, it could be that their sister was having a nightmare, but she insisted that she was not. In any case, they had no time to prepare. Suddenly an explosion thundered outside, blowing the door open. They all dropped to the ground and as they rose to their feet, they saw several figures swarming in. Without anyone being able to stop them, they seized two children as hostages and threatened them with daggers to their necks. The leader of these aggressors was Fantoui who urged them with hatred.

- Now, you group of bitches, surrender or we'll kill these kids, and you know we mean business!

The terrified children tried to scream, but their mouths were covered to the horror of their peers and the rest of the people sheltering there.

- Bloody cowardly murderers," - Beruche shouted at them. - Show your faces, you wretches, let those children go and fight!

- You filthy maggots," - Cooan shouted, equally furious and impotent. - I swear you will regret this!

Impervious to such exhortations, the cultists smiled triumphantly. Fantoui addressed them again, now in a calmer and supposedly condescending tone, brimming with smugness.

- Threaten and insult us all you want but surrender or these children will go to hell before you.

Petz and Tom dared not do anything either and watched angrily and helplessly as terrible scene unfolded. But then Karaberasu approached her enemies, glaring at the cultists who were capturing the children. Their laughter died away, giving way to an expression of terror.

- Release them, I command you. - She said in a strangely calm and grave voice. –

           Her eyes flashed reddish and her captors, against their will and to the astonishment of their leader, dropped the daggers and the children who ran after Beruche and Cooan. Petz and Tom were the first to react and attacked the cultists, knocking them unconscious. The Ice Lady froze another who tried to flee, and the Fire Lady launched a volley of fiery arrows at the rest, who chose to retreat rather than fight back.

- This isn't over, bitches! - Fantoui exclaimed as she fled on the run. -

-We agree on that, you miserable swine! - Petz retorted, going after him. -

             The Fire-lady and the Ice-lady followed her, and set off in pursuit, firing their respective weapons and bolts of lightning. When they were sure that their adversaries had fled, they hesitated.

-We'd better go back inside. This could be a trap to lure us out. - Bertie commented. -

-You're right. - Cooan agreed. - We're too exposed here.

Tom had gone out a few yards away from the church to cover the backs of his companions. He motioned to the girls. Petz nodded, indicating to her sisters.

-Let's go. Let's get back.

            And the three of them returned. It was Cooan who wondered aloud, before going inside.

- How did Kalie do that? She ordered those guys to drop the kids and their guns, and they obeyed her.

-I don't know, and I'd rather not know. - Petz sighed. -

             Neither Bertie nor Tom said anything. The boys hugged their saviors and the rest cheered.

- I think we should get out of here. - Tom then observed. - Those bastards could come back at any moment with a worse attack. Or blow up the church with us in it. Unlike demons they are not affected by the sacredness of the environment.

- That's true. Nothing would stop them. And they most certainly will. - Karaberasu agreed, choosing to ignore the astonished looks her sisters and the boy placed on her. - Let's get out of here as soon as possible.

As Cooan had remarked a moment ago, none of them dared even ask how she had done that. How could she have been able to charm those guys with her mere voice and her gaze? Luckily there was no chance, one of the people gathered there approached them timidly. He was a short, plump man in his sixties, with a sweaty bald head and a blotchy face. He was dressed in a cream-colored tie-dyed suit that was dirty and frayed. When the group turned their attention to him, he informed them as he pulled a small radio out of his pocket.

- I've been hearing that calm has returned to the city, all the demons have retreated. The authorities have regained control and the area is safe.

- Are you sure about that," -Petz asked him calmly. -

The man nodded twice quickly, and Karaberasu replied, corroborating his words with an emphatic.

- That's right, I notice that there are no more evil presences nearby.

Her sisters were at a loss to understand how she could know. Cooan tried to use the tricks Rei had taught her and Tom applied the techniques he had learned in the same way. To their amazement they both confirmed Kalie's opinion and the man's news.

- If that is so, we will take the kids to the city, along with the rest of the people. - Petz said. - They will be safe and can be reunited with their families. They must be very worried about them.

- We will escort them because, even if there are no demons, there might be some of those cultists left, and they will attack them when they see a defenseless group. - Tom said. -

The girls agreed and organized the people, who were, of course, only too happy to be protected by the famous Justicieras and that brave fighter. They set off and made it safely to the city. When they finally reached the safety of the urban area and after thanking their protectors, all the people gradually dispersed in the direction of their homes. They wanted to know if their homes had been damaged and many were worried about their loved ones. The Justicieras along with Tom opted to leave the children in a shelter, in the care of the authorities who also thanked them for their work. Bertie and Cooan said goodbye to the children, especially Sharon.

-Now you must continue to be very brave," - Cooan whispered softly to the little girl, who nodded. -

- Will we see you at school? - the little girl asked shyly in a hopeful little voice. -

-Of course, we will, sweetheart. - Bertie smiled, joining in the conversation to promise in affectionate tones. - Everything will be all right.

The two Justicieras kissed the cheeks of the little girl, who smiled and waved her hand. The Justicieras walked away. Before they left with Tom, however, the little man who had been with them in the church and who introduced himself as a high public official, said as he said goodbye to them.

- I will never forget your help and protection. Keep it in mind. If you need me, do not hesitate to look for me. Or if you cannot find me, I will personally see to it that you are rewarded. I give you, my word.

The group welcomed the offer with a half-smile but would not ask for anything. That was not their goal. What they did do was to accept the food and medical care that could be provided. But no one was allowed to remove their masks. None of those present, no matter how curious they were, would be willing to do so because of the degree of admiration and respect they had for them. In this way they were also able to rest. Though they did not forget that, as soon as they were minimally reestablished, they would have to return to the fight?

-We can't afford to rest. - Petz commented to the others. - We haven't won the battle yet.

-We'll get back to it. - Tom replied, but nevertheless, he pleaded. - But it is wiser to do so with our strength restored.

His interlocutors nodded. That was the way it was. They were at the end of their endurance and would be of no use to anyone if they did not get some rest. For his part and at some distance, Hank carried the little girl in his arms. The baby was sleeping, and he had no idea what to do or where to take her.

-I don't know why I agreed to carry this brat. - He sighed resignedly. -

He was on his way out of town. He had managed to steal one of the cars that had been abandoned and take a back road. But the petrol ran out and now he was out there, in the middle of the countryside, with this sleeping girl. That's when he heard that woman's voice shouting at him.

-Leave my daughter alone, you pig!

As he turned towards the source of the sound he couldn't believe his eyes, it was April! Although this girl was a bit changed. Her hair was a shade of brown. Possibly she had dyed it. What would she have to do with that girl anyway?

-I was told to keep her safe. - He replied with visible bewilderment. -

-Well, you already have. - She replied aggressively. - Now I, her mother, will be the one to take care of Marla.

- You're her mother, you say? Come on, April! - he replied incredulously. -

-My name is not April. - the woman rebutted sullenly. - I'm Paige Sorel.

- You've changed your identity? Interesting. - Hank commented, looking at her in puzzlement now. -

An idea occurred to the boy. Why not? He couldn't have Bertie, but despite giving the impression of being a nutcase, April was quite attractive. So, he proposed.

-Between the two of us, we'll have a better chance of getting out of this safely. What do you think?

And after a few moments' consideration, the young woman nodded.

-Until we're safe. Then you'll be on your way. - She emphasized. -

-Of course. – The boy agreed who, with evident astonishment, wanted to know. - How did you find me?

-A hooded man told me. - She replied. -

Assuming it was the head of the cult, Hank asked no more questions. Luckily that girl had also come in a car she had parked on the side of that dusty second-class road.

-It would be better if I drove, and you drove with your daughter in the back. To protect her. - He suggested. -

The young woman agreed, it seemed the most sensible option. They boarded the vehicle and set off, to get away from there. Away from that terrible battle.

-I'll do what that guy with the hood and the book suggested. -The girl thought. - I'll hide with Marla and raise her away from the influence of these cultists. The further we are away from the fighting, the better....

Meanwhile, in the wasteland, Diamond continued to fight and suffered, parrying her enemy's attacks. The demon laughed, thinking that victory was within his grasp. His rival could only use one arm and the paralysis was almost up to his neck, he would soon die. Resorting to his last remaining trick, the boy accumulated energy to form a large disc that he threw at his enemy.

- That's easy to dodge," - the demon mocked, moving away from his trajectory, the disc continued its path, cleanly passing through a large rock that he broke in two. -

But the prince didn't seem to care that he had missed. Though his rival laughed at him as he approached on guard, ready to avoid another projectile from the deluded mortal as he said with glee.

- You're running out of time, ha, ha, ha!

Diamond smiled, however, and Nemarash then realised that the disc was coming back at him, but it was too late.  In desperation, he tried to turn away, but it severed one of his arms and gave him a serious cut on his right leg. Howling with pain and rage, he fell to his knees to get up quickly, trying to stop the bleeding.

- Well, now we are even. - His opponent said, he took the opportunity to punch the demon in the face using almost all his strength, sentencing him. - You're just a pathetic little devil with no style who resorts to cowardly tricks. Fighting on equal terms and face to face, I am far superior to you.

Nemarash staggered to the ground as he retorted in anger.

- No, you will die soon enough, when the paralysis reaches your heart, but fear not, before then I will take personal pleasure in killing you with my own hands! - He roared, rushing frantically at him. -

And that was a grave mistake, the one his opponent had expected. Diamond dodged him and summoned all his remaining energy to counterattack, blasting his foe point-blank with a powerful energy bolt that finally blew him apart. Everyone cheered and when he returned to his friends, Sapphire gave him a magic bean, which finally brought him back to his senses, as the death of his enemy ended the spell of paralysis.

- Thank goodness, I needed it, thank you, brother. My arm is perfectly fine again. - He assured, moving it to check it, and it did respond well. Fortunately, the demon's dart had no poison and was only a thief of energy that supplied his rival. Now we will surely defeat them! - the prince exclaimed enthusiastically. -

-You were right to provoke him. He lost his stealth and his advantage. Master Piccolo would be proud of you. - Nephrite said approvingly. -

-Thank you, my friend. - Diamond smiled, shaking his hand in relief. - Fortunately, these cretins don't learn their lessons from other people's heads.

-Yes...and all that's missing is that other bastard. - Sapphire declared, looking across the field. -

And Nagashel, now alone, was still glaring at them, though he didn't seem uneasy, rather disgruntled. But, above all, he was waiting for his turn to fight. Roy knew this and said to his companions with great calmness.

- Well, I'm the only one missing. Stand aside while I fight him. This is not going to be a joke.

His visibly impatient enemy stepped forward a few paces and challenged him with a shout.

- Come on Sun warrior, now it's between you and me! It doesn't matter that these fools have defeated my servants, I'll destroy them with the stroke of a pen as soon as I'm done with you.

- Hey, wait a minute, you little shit! - Ail replied rather annoyed, - "How dare you insult us?

- He says that because he's furious, we've beaten all his commanders and he didn't expect it, did he, you filthy devil? - Sapphire mocked. -

- Yeah, there's no need for Roy to fight him. Between the four of us, we're enough to give him a good thrashing. - Nephrite exclaimed confidently. -

- You miserable insects? - Nagashel responded with a sneer of disdain to be sure. - The four of you together wouldn't be able to touch me.

- We'll see about that," - Diamond answered, who looked at his companions, haranguing them. - Boys, go ahead if we attack him together, we can beat him!

- Wait a moment," - Roy asked them, - "he is too strong for you.

But his warning was ignored, the four of them rushed at the demon. Nagashel was waiting for them undeterred. In unison they launched their best attacks at him, but he deflected them without the slightest effort and then began to concentrate a terrible amount of energy that shook the place. With a chilling and terrible howl, the demon was enveloped by a reddish light. Its waves of power threw the boys dozens of meters in all directions, everyone was shaken by the enormous power.

- He has terrible strength! - Sapphire acknowledged in amazement. - I think we've been rushed.

- The four of us won't be able to take him. - Nephrite also admitted. -

- We'd better get away from here," - Ail suggested. -

- Roy, if you want, we'll fight alongside you," - Diamond offered him with the support of the rest. -

- No, thanks, my friend. - The boy replied, calmly stripping off his dungarees. - This is my business. You've had your fights and now it's my turn, so get out of the way and go protect the sailors. -

              And after ordering them to do so, he transformed into a super warrior, began to glow a powerful golden hue, and emit energy, reaching the level of his opponent.

- All right," - the prince of Nemesis added resignedly, realizing the futility of his offer. - I wish you the best of luck.

- Diamond, let's go! - Nephrite urged him. -

- The moon warriors are there! - Sapphire pointed out them. - Let's do as Roy told us and go and protect them.

- At least we'll be of some use there,"- Ail agreed. –

            Immediately they all flew towards Usagi and the others. They were clinging as best they could to the ground and to each other so as not to be materially dragged down by these two colossal energies. The demons who had been watching the other fights avidly were now retreating farther away, fearful of being destroyed by the unleashed forces. Diamond and the others ignored them and went to meet their friends. When they landed next to them, they tried to block the waves of power from the two distant fighters and managed to secure everyone's position. The girls were able to break free from their grips and they gave them each a half bean, (as they had very few left) that was enough to recover them, at least in part. Once they were recovered, Usagi moved as close to Diamond as she could and greeted him with effusion and joy.

- It's so good to see you all again, and this time on our side.

- Yes, we are very happy too, my queen. - He replied respectfully and kindly, bending a knee to the girl. - We have returned to try to repair all the evil we caused.

-Please, stand up. - She asked him a little embarrassed while her companions smiled despite everything. -

-I just wanted to show that no one will ever have to ask me to bow to you again. - He asserted with a fleeting smile. -

-I thank you, but it's not necessary. And, besides, we haven't much time for that. – His interlocutor responded hastily. -

And given the circumstances, they couldn't even afford that interlude to relieve the tension. At that, it was Nephrite who added in a recognizable tone, immediately qualifying it in a quiet, worried voice.

- And I thank Heaven for giving us another chance. But in the end, it's going to come down to Roy. That beast is too strong for us.

- Our lives and the lives of the whole planet are in his hands," - Sapphire declared in a quiet voice. -

- We must get as far away from here as possible. - Ail interjected with visible concern. - To a safer place. We'll take you there," - and when they all agreed, he asked Rei, the warrior closest to him at the time.” Where are my wife and son? I saw them with you.

- How is that possible? - Sailor Mars asked him in turn. -

- It's a long story, I'll tell you later," - Ail responded who insisted. - Are they safe?

- They're perfectly fine," - Rei smiled to add kindly. - Luna and Artemis are taking care of them in Japan, congratulations, you have a beautiful boy!

- Thank you very much," - Ail who was in his human guise responded, he was blushing and smiling. However, there wasn't much time to spend on pleasantries, so he immediately urged them on. - Now let's get out of here!

They all nodded, leaving the area, and moving as far away as they could while Roy and Nagashel continued to focus their energies relentlessly. Usagi and Mamoru looked at each other for a few moments and it was he who whispered to his partner.

-It's the moment of truth. Now we'll see if everything is going to turn out as expected.

-I have no doubt. - Usagi declared with conviction. - Our friends must have trained him very well. And I believe in him.

               Her interlocutor nodded in agreement. And now from a safer place, although still trembling from the movement of the ground, Mamoru himself, the warriors and the four fighters, watched expectantly as the combat that would decide the future of the Earth began.

**START**