GWA31E

**START**

**Roy's Audacious Challenge**

A couple of days passed and fortunately Karaberasu seemed to recover in mood as well, although she was still very subdued and reflective. The once acidic and provocative girl was no longer teasing and prodding Petz as was once her habit and this continued to worry the others, but they opted to wait. Surely what she must have gone through when she was captured would have been terrible and she would need patience, affection and above all time to get back to her old self. On the other hand, everyone was busy carrying on with their normal occupations. That was the best way forward. Although both Cooan and Bertie were trying to carry on with their daily activities, the youngest of the sisters was still in the Cheer-Leaders group, and both she and April had grown closer in the last few days. After the rehearsal, the young girl turned to her. The second captain of the group wanted to come clean once and for all. So she cautiously waited for the rest of the group to finish, and to prevent her partner from leaving in turn, she whispered to her.

- Do you have a moment? I'd like to talk to you alone.

-Sure. - Cooan nodded. -

The truth is, with all the events that had taken place over the past few days, she had no idea what April might want. Perhaps it was simply something to do with the cheerleading squad. So, she waited and when the last of her teammates left, the second in command approached her, declaring to break the ice.

-Great Connie, you're the fittest of us all. - She remarked in a kindly tone. -

-Thank you," - she smiled, not giving it any importance to plead. - It's just that I've been training a lot lately. -

-Yeah. - Her partner mused. -

And after a long sigh, attracting the attention and strangeness of her interlocutor, April looked her straight in the eyes and smiled, then lightly caressed her cheek.

- Hey, I don't ...! - A nervous Cooan stammered. -

-Don't worry, it's not about that. - Her companion smiled more broadly, confessing. - I'd be lying if I said I didn't like you. You're a beautiful girl, Connie, you really are, and in other circumstances I'd love you and me, you know....

-It's just that I don't share those tastes..." The embarrassed girl apologized. -

-I know, and you're dating a fantastic guy. - April said. - I really do know. Don't be worried. That's not what I wanted to talk to you about, Connie.

Now Cooan was really blushing, though after a few moments of awkward silence, her companion quickly added, pushing the subject aside.

-I'm very grateful to you and to the others.

-To... to me, why? - her interlocutor, who pretended to have no idea what April might be referring to asked her. - I don't understand you.

-Yes, you do. - She picked up the chain of the pendant Cooan was wearing and looked at the red stone, then added in an acknowledging tone. - Thank you very much, Justiciar. Thank you for saving me from those monsters. I mean it. Lady of Fire.

The look on the face of her interlocutor's face was evident enough for April to smile broadly and hug her. After she broke away from that, though, Cooan wanted to rebut.

-I'm sure you've mistaken me for someone else.

-There's no point in denying it. At least with me. And don't worry, your secret and Bertie's is safe. What's more, I spoke to Tom the other day.

- Tom? Have you told him anything? - A puzzled Cooan wanted to know. -

-Nothing he didn't already know. - April replied, now with a more saddened and worried gesture to confess. - You see Connie; I have an older sister. She's in a very complicated situation. She belongs to that sect you are fighting. But she's not evil, on the contrary, she wanted to help the Thunder Lady when she was captured.

- What? -  Her companion, who no longer bothered to deny her identity as a Justiciera, exclaimed when she asked imperiously. - What did they do to my sister?

-They were about to sacrifice her. Luckily you prevented it. My sister was in charge of washing her and putting a robe on her. So she told me. - Her companion was able to answer, wishing to get out of the situation she had got herself into. - I'm sorry, she didn't tell me anything else.

It was a lie, of course Paige told her about the terrible abuse the wretch had been subjected to. But she didn't want to tell poor Connie that, in fact, it was one of the things she had agreed with Tom when she gave that boy such raw information. What she did tell her, in a conciliatory tone, was.

-My sister informs me of anything she can find out and I made an agreement with Tom, I will tell him everything she tells me. To help you fight those scoundrels. That way you can stay ahead of their moves.

- Tom's in a wheelchair, April! He can't come to protect your sister. - Cooan responded with more sternness in her tone. - You should have come to me first.

-That's why I'm talking to you now. - Her companion insisted. -

- How long have you known that my sisters and I are the Justicieras? - Cooan questioned her. -

-Well, days after you saved me. When you helped me, I noticed your necklace. - The girl admitted. -

That was a weak point in her disguise. If they wished to remain incognito, that pendant with the stone would attract a lot of attention. Although it was difficult for a person they saved to later meet them personally when they were in their civilian identities. In any case, if it had happened with April, it could happen again.

-We're not very good at maintaining anonymity. - Cooan sighed after that thought. -

-I assure you I will never tell anyone who you are, I give you my word. You saved my life! - Her companion repeated, taking her by the hand in a pleading tone. - I only ask you, please, protect my sister and her daughter. She has a baby. And those cultists are capable of anything if they find out she's been passing information to you.

-Don't be afraid. We'll take care of it. - Cooan nodded, her composure restored. -

-Thank you, Connie. - April sobbed, unable to hold back her tears. -

She let herself be hugged by her companion and soon they were both out of there. However, they were oblivious to the fact that some of the other girls, with obvious curiosity, had been eavesdropping on some moments of their conversation.

- Do you see, Serena? - Brooke commented to her partner as they both turned away from the door, as Cooan and April left. - Those two play for the other team.  You know what I mean.

Brooke had been one of the last to leave, she heard that whisper from the second captain, when she asked Connie to stay. Of course, April was getting weirder by the day. She used to shy away from the others except for that Japanese girl. Stung by curiosity, she ran to find Serena, who had already left, and told her that.

-Well, we can listen around the bend in the corridor. There's a lot of space there and they won't see us. - She suggested. -

And they both did, arriving just as April was confessing that she was attracted to Connie.

- She told her she likes her! - Brooke whispered, waving her hand and giving a silly grin. -

- What a bombshell! - Serena agreed, adding mockingly. - I thought she'd be like that. We've never seen her dating boys. Connie is dating Tom, though.

- With Rodney? Now that he's in a wheelchair? I'm sorry, Serena, I don't buy it. It must be a cover-up. And if it isn't, the poor guy won't even suspect what his girlfriend is doing with the second captain of the cheerleading squad.

-We have to tell Mel. - Her interlocutor commented -

At least with their own gossip they couldn't hear anything else. They even peeked out a little, especially Brooke, and saw clearly how April was holding both of Connie's hands. That seemed to her to be proof that these two had a pretty obvious relationship.

- Come on, this is going to be something worth mentioning! - Brooke encouraged her friend. -

And they both ran off to tell their closest companions. Bertie, for her part, had returned to a few games of chess. However, the girl was not very motivated, even losing some of them, as her mind was not very focused on the game. Hank asked her with concern.

- What's wrong with you? You're so much better than this.

-My mind is on other things. - She sighed evasively. -

Hank was no fool, in the cafeteria the other day, it seemed to him that Bertie and that scoundrel Malden had had some sort of argument. He immediately volunteered.

-If you want to talk about anything, I'd be glad to listen. - He said in a tone full of interest, which he took care to conceal, as he added with apparent joviality. - Now that Sophie is going to play in a tournament again, I can't let the only person on my team capable of selling her be preoccupied with other things.

-I appreciate that. - Bertie smiled faintly. - But don't worry, it's all right. I'll focus right away. It's just that I've got a lot of studying to do now.

-Yes, of course. - The young man nodded, for that was the way it was. -

           The truth is that the final exams were getting closer every day.  Surely that girl would be concentrating on them. Hank was playing less chess now, and was concentrating on other things.

-I'd like her to put that guy aside. - He thought. –

         And he became more obsessed by her with each passing day. Bertie was one of the few girls who would talk to him about anything, without doing it to get help in any subject or without making fun of his freakishness.

-Maybe I had a chance. - He told himself with growing optimism. - But that jerk Malden is the obstacle. -

               That's why he wished the guy would disappear. That wouldn't be easy, though. Besides, he seemed to have become very focused now. In fact, the girls and boys were now attending their classes seriously and attentively. Roy did not play jokes, but preferred to meditate on the events of the last few days. He was preoccupied and when he looked at Tom he also had the impression that he was rather reserved, he seemed to have something on his mind that he was not yet willing to talk about.

- What's up, mate? - He greeted him precisely at the end of a class where the two of them were alone, just after the exit. -

-We need to talk. - He answered between seriousness and concern. -

-You tell me. - Roy said. -

-Not here. Let's go to our room. - His friend asked him. -

Roy nodded, and the two headed that way. On the way they saw Williams, who, as usual, gave them a blank stare and passed them by.

-That guy is getting weirder every day. - Roy said, although his companion didn't comment. - I don't know what I've done to him.

And at last they reached the room, and it was then that his friend said with visible concern.

-We have a very serious problem.

- And what could be worse, Tom? - he asked wearily, fed up with it all and no doubt expecting to hear that another demon had made an appearance. - Which one do I have to destroy now?

But his friend replied without beating around the bush, though, in keeping with his promise to April, omitting his direct source of information.

- After you told me what that demon said to you in the battle the other day, I started to investigate. Using a special spell, I was able to intercept the Sect's conversations and I found out things. It seems that a guy called the Great Wiseman, who is the boss, is willing to summon a very powerful demon, and when I say someone powerful I don't mean just another commander, I mean one of the great bosses of Avernus.

- I have faced very strong demons before," - Roy replied, not giving it too much importance. - "How can this one be?

- Much stronger than the last one you faced. - Tom replied, visibly concerned. - How did you do?

- It was very hard," - his partner admitted. -  "I thought it was going to finish me. If it hadn't been for your protection spell and Kalie's help, I'd be dead by now," - he explained, though omitting the rest of the details to his friend about the wretched girl's pitiful reaction. - I could not have dealt with him alone.

His companion rubbed his chin and seemed hesitant to continue speaking, but there was no other choice, he had to be honest and dare to go on, and so he did.

- The demon you refer to was apparently only one of his assistants. - He added, lowering his head in sorrow - and he is no match for him in power.

- What can we do? - Roy asked in dismay at hearing this. -  "I can't beat a monster like that!

- There is a chance," - his friend replied timidly. - I've been studying some occult books lately, as you may know, and I've discovered that we can summon him ourselves, before that Great Wiseman does.

- Have you gone mad? - His interlocutor exclaimed, looking at him, astonished by what he was hearing. - What do you want to summon him for, so that he'll fire all of us and save the Wiseman's asshole the trouble?

- No, let me explain. - Tom cut him off, gesturing with his hands. -  "If the Great Wiseman summons him, the demon will appear and if he defeats you he will have a time in which he could do a lot of damage on Earth, he will be free to do whatever he wants, even if it's only for a few hours.

- Wouldn't he stay here as long as he wanted like Valnak? - Roy asked his friend. -

Tom sighed, tried to explain it to his friend, according to the books he had read and what Anthony had told him some time ago, shook his head.

-The more powerful and evil an entity is, the more it needs to be in Avernus. It would lose power on Earth and would need a lot of energy to stay here. Valnak was not that strong.

-And Sailor Moon and the others could defeat him. - Roy commented. –

-The warriors may be able to finish him off, but they may not.  But if I summon him, we have the right to demand an oath from him, and even if he defeats you, he must return immediately to Hell. At least for some time, and order his subordinates not to obey any further summoning. Do you understand, Roy? There would at least be time to prepare a defence or prevent them from using those damn stones. And if we can stop them from using them when the alignment of planets passes, they will have failed.

-But they don't need those stones. - His friend objected. - Come to think of it, they could still conquer the world by summoning such powerful demons. You just said that.

Tom shook his head as he shifted in his chair and consulted a couple of books. Then he replied.

-I told you they have their limitations. They can't do that here as they would like to. They have that limitation of their power. They can't use one demon; they can't use several demons. They can't make this one attack, just like that. It's very difficult to summon. Also, from what I've read, I've learned that the more powerful they are, the more energy they need to access our dimension. These stones are sort of like amplifiers that channel the energy allowing a corridor to open up.

- Like Stargate? - the astonished Roy asked his friend, remembering a movie he had seen recently. -

-It's something similar. Yes. - His companion admitted, resuming his explanations. - What they want is to open a channel between their world and ours. The one who possessed you, Armageddon, was the only one who, within such a powerful body, could do something similar. And yet they were behind the stones. If they achieve their goal, if they succeed. Then that would be the end.  In that case, no such ceremonies would be necessary, and any entity, no matter how evil and powerful, could freely transit into our dimension...including the Prince of Darkness himself...and receive his power directly from Hell.

That made his colleague's heart freeze. He saw it differently now. This was a proposal to be considered, if Roy's sacrifice could defeat them definitively and save the whole world (and therefore the girls). It would be worth it.

- Maybe so," - he admitted thoughtfully, remembering with more encouragement. - If at least the warriors got here in time and fought on our side, they could find the bastards' lair and destroy them and those damn stones.

- So, shall we do that? - Tom asked him with great caution, to which his interlocutor nodded, there was no choice, it was either him or all the innocent people of Earth. - Then go ahead! - he exclaimed more decisively. - Come with me, I have everything ready.

- You knew I was going to say yes. - His companion smiled faintly. - You know me well.

- This idea disgusts me as much as it does you, but there's no other solution. -" Tom mused, looking at him with a frown. -

- I trust you, my friend. - Roy encouraged him, putting a hand on his shoulders to make a statement. - And I made a promise when Beruche was in a coma. I will die rather than let those bastards rule this planet. So go ahead then! Don't worry, I'll figure out a way to get out of this like I have so far.

Tom smiled more relieved. His partner knew how to repay his trust and he would do everything in his power to help him. But there was no time to waste now, for thanks to the information April had provided, he knew that the Wiseman would soon be summoning his demon. They had to get ahead of him, he would certainly not expect that. He then led his friend to an empty room he had secured for himself. As he entered, Roy noticed that a five-pointed star was drawn on the floor, with the tip pointing upwards. He remembered that he had seen one in the cult, but its point faced downwards.

- Hey, Tom, you've slipped in with the star. - He warned him, a little worried. -

- No," - he explained, - "the upward point is a symbol of protection, of white magic. Theirs symbolises darkness, black and demonic magic.

- Oh, right! - Roy nodded in surprise - sorry, you are the one who knows about these matters, go on with the ceremony.

- Before we continue, I must warn you about a few things. - Tom told him seriously and in a slow tone. -This is a very dangerous subject and great care must be taken when summoning one of these beings. They possess enormous powers and will not play fair unless we are able to impose our conditions on them. So, to begin with, it doesn't matter what this demon says or threatens you. He will not be able to do anything, because we will only invoke him in the astral body. But whatever happens, do not leave the star, for then it will have influence over you. Remember, as long as you are within it you are safe. Pay no attention to anything he promises you, except when he swears by Avernus or by his lord.

- Very well. - Roy agreed, anxious to get it over with as soon as possible. - Here we go.

              Tom nodded and when they were both well inside the star he began to recite incantations in dead languages. He sprinkled the area with a substance that caused an intense fog. The atmosphere became more suffocating and two reddish eyes appeared in the thick fog. A guttural voice, powerful and booming, echoed in the room and a huge silhouette appeared, protesting...

- Who dares to summon me to this wretched world?

That form became defined in a hideous demon with a bull's head and red malevolent eyes. It had a muscular body and two black wings on its back, with legs topped by hooves. Noticing the presence of the humans, it fixed its eyes on them, towering almost to the ceiling of the room. They both shuddered in horror at his appearance, but most of all at the power he exuded.

- We summoned you," - Tom said, trying to control his fear and adding sternly. - As the conductor of the summoning, I command you to tell us your name and status.

- I am Nagashel, the God-denying one. Lord of a part of Hell and Duke of the Deep Abyss. General of the Horde of the Seventh Circle of Hell. Who are you, wretched mortal, to dare to command me anything?

- Hey you, cow-face! Don't mess with my friend. - Roy replied, coming to Tom's defence. -

- Don't worry," - he reassured him in a toneless voice. - He has no choice but to answer.

- Who are you? - The demon asked, staring at the other human. - You don't look like an ordinary human.

- I am the sun warrior who has destroyed all the stupid demons who have dared to show their noses here, and now it's your turn. - He met that terrible stare with a look of boldness and defiance. -

- Poor simpleton! - The demon mocked. - You cannot imagine the extent of my power. The demons you have destroyed, and surely, with difficulty, are not even worthy of kissing the ground I walk on.

- That's what that idiot Karnoalk told me. - Roy smiled without taking him seriously, or at least pretending not to. - And I've already sent him back to Hell. Tell me, did he have a good trip back?

- Karnoalk was one of my best servants! - Nagashel spat between disbelief and fury, adding with cold cruelty. - You will pay dearly for this, wretched mortal.

- Then what I have to tell you will interest you. - His interlocutor replied, trying not to be daunted. -

- I am listening, speak! - The demon, who seemed impatient commanded him. -

- How would you like a single combat between you and me? - his interlocutor proposed to him. - On the condition that, even if you win, you will have to return to Hell forever and will not be able to return to Earth. Neither you, nor any other demon.

- You have the right to demand a pact when you invoke me," - the demon agreed, who nevertheless clarified. - But it will not be definitively. The time limit must be earned, and since you destroyed my servant Karnoalk, a difficult feat for a mortal, I will be generous. For every five minutes you resist me, I will stay in Hell for a whole month of your time. And my servants won't be able to come for the same amount of time either. Are you okay with that, human?

Roy seemed hesitant and Tom was not too convinced, but Nagashel grew more impatient and insisted, adding.

- I won't give you more time than that. And it's a generous offer, no doubt about it.

- Can't we oblige him to more? - Roy asked his partner in a whisper. -

- I'm afraid not. - Tom replied in a quiet voice. -

The boy nodded slowly and declared.

- Yes, I agree. It seems reasonable to me. For every five minutes a month. I hope I can beat you, though.

The demon smirked and let out an evil laugh that chilled the blood at the mere sound of it and replied.

- Very well, agreed then, mortals. I will see you in combat.

               And he bared his terrible fangs in a grin that left Roy and Tom petrified with horror, but the latter reacted enough to firmly rebut.

- Not so fast. That pact is worthless until you swear to it.

- We've already agreed! - The demon said, visibly irritated. - Is my word not enough for you?

-Of course no!" - Tom answered vigorously, not to be deceived, and then demanded. -  Swear it to me by your lord and master and we'll know it's true! For you and your subordinates. Otherwise you can break the pact at your pleasure. So, don't take us for fools.

The demon smiled again, this time answering in a calmer tone and acknowledging Tom's intelligence.

- You are cunning human, and skilful, you know the laws of Avernus well. You shall have what you ask for. I swear it in the name of my lord Satan.

-For you and your minions..." - Tom reminded him. -

-So be it then, in the name of my lord Satan. - The demon reaffirmed. –

- Are you sure you will keep your oath? - Roy, who was still suspicious asked him -

- You know well that I am obliged to keep my word. - The truly irritated entity answered on this occasion. - Now tell me where and when!

- In a secluded place, a moor near here. - His opponent, who had hardly even thought of that, reasoned. But luckily he was able to give the demon the right directions, alluding to the place where he himself was training. - In two days' time, at dawn. Better make it nine o'clock, I don't like to get up so early. - The boy smiled, rectifying his previous statement with mockery. - Is that good for you?

- You have a great sense of humour. - Nagashel laughed, deafening the room with his terrible laughter. - You're going to need it. Very well, so be it. Make the most of your last two days of life.

- One more thing. - Roy asked him, suddenly remembering something that was really very important - you must swear not to attack, not to harm anyone but me. And swear it by your master.

- In the name of my lord and master Satan, I swear it. - the demon reluctantly replied. - Anything else, or can I go? - he added sarcastically. -

- No, that's all," - his interlocutor concluded, wondering if he had forgotten anything. -

- You are a brave man, or a madman, I don't know," – Nagashel declared. - But I will show you no mercy. So long mortal. I will see you in combat," he said, disappearing, leaving behind him only an insufferable smell of sulphur. -

Tom made sure that the nightmarish being had left, and when he did, he signalled to his friend that they could now exit the star. But he was pinned, and as soon as the demon vanished he lost his self-possession and his countenance paled.

- He has immense strength, I have never felt anything like it in my life, what he told me is true. The other demons were harmless compared to him. I couldn't beat him, not even if I trained for months, and I only have two days! - Roy declared uneasily. -

- Cheer up, we can do something. - His companion told him encouragingly. -

- Just one thing. Not a word of this to the girls, I don't want them to suffer any more, at least not these days. Promise me, Tom? - he asked almost desperately. -

- Yes, I promise. - He nodded, equally dejected as his friend. -

And for that evening they did nothing more. Nor did they warn the girls, for they both wished to withdraw into their meditations. Roy now struggled not to regret and not to be overcome by fear. And his friend was by his side, wordlessly encouraging him. They slept little and the next day in class the girls told them that they had called the sailors, that was a ray of hope. The sailors, for their part, confirmed that they would arrive as soon as possible.

- Let's hope so! And they will take good care of the girls. - The anguished Roy thought. -

In Japan, Ami was quick to call Bertie to give her an affirmative answer. Just as the sailor thought, her friend was delighted. Once they had said goodbye, she informed her fellow sailors.

-The time has come then. - Usagi said assertively to the surprise of her friends. - Possibly I will behave strangely. But it must be so. Act naturally in front of our friends. Encourage them. And above all remember, we don't know more than what they tell us.

The others looked at each other blankly. What did she mean by that? Behaving strangely? She really had been doing or saying things that were not like her for a long time. However, none of them dared to ask her about it.

- Are we going to use the sailor teleport? - Makoto wanted to know. -

-Yes," - her interlocutor affirmed. - As soon as we're ready, we'll leave...

The others nodded and could smile with relief. They were already looking forward to going to support their friends. Even if they didn't quite understand that last bit about playing dumb. Surely that was something only Usagi and Mamoru knew. Of course, those two were becoming more enigmatic and impenetrable by the day. But it was no time to dwell on that now.

-Mamoru stand in the middle with Luna and Artemis. - Rei asked him. -

The requested one did so along with the felines. Finally, the girls were ready. After waiting for the appointed time and place, they teleported. Their friends were waiting for them in a field on the outskirts of the city. Cooan was the first to point out to her sisters.

- There they are!

                 And this time the whole team was certainly there, Usagi, Rei, Makoto, Minako, and Ami, also the two cats, along with Mamoru. They all hugged each other amidst joy.

- Well, here we are! – Usagi laughed - as promised. - And very graphically she imitated the gestures of a boxer throwing his fists. - After passing our test, I feel in great shape. Let's see! Where are those demons we have to defeat?

- Usagi, you seem to be unaware of the danger we must face," - Ami reproved her, shaking her head in resignation. -

However, Mamoru gestured to her and Mercury understood, keeping silent. Fortunately for her, that went unnoticed by her friends.

- It's no joke. They are very powerful," - Cooan nodded, agreeing with her friend, - "and evil. Their cruelty is immense. They stop at nothing, so we must be extremely careful.

- Yes, that's true," – Petz confirmed. - But now that you are here and will fight alongside us, we have more hope.

- And we also have Roy," - Beruche smiled, thinking she was giving them away. - He is the Golden Warrior and he has tremendous power!

- We already know that. - Ami smiled at her. -

        And to the astonished faces of the girl and her sisters, Sailor Mercury told them what happened during the fight against Valnak.

-So he... He did that... for me? - Bertie was surprised as she placed one of her hands on her chest to emphasise that. - He was transformed because of me!...

-He loves you so much that when he thought he had lost you, he brought out all the strength that was hidden inside him. - Usagi smiled tenderly at her friend. - Such is the power of true love.

That was a beautiful moment Beruche was moved as were her sisters. But then it was Petz who commented uneasily.

-And yet, the last demon he faced almost defeated him. He was tremendously strong.

- Are they still more powerful than a Daimon or a Devilster, or one of your droids? - Makoto asked her friend. -

- Much more..." - the questioner acknowledged reluctantly. -

- And more than the Phantom of Death, Pharaoh Ninety or Neherenia? Even the Galaxy itself? - Minako asked uneasily. -

- Well. - Ami answered reflexively, making a rough calculation. - Based on the latest data, it might be there. But the latter, based on your description, could well compare with Galaxia and out-power our other enemies.

-As Petz said. The last demon Roy defeated was a hell of a lot stronger than the one you saw. - Bertie informed them uneasily. - If it hadn't been for my sister Karaberasu, I would have lost.

- What do you mean? - Rei exclaimed, looking at her in disbelief. - I still can't believe it, with the power we saw Roy display and you say he would have lost! What was that demon like?

- Hopefully no stronger than our last enemies. And those gave us a lot of work. - Usagi sighed with a bead of sweat on her head and waved her hand, making it look like this was not exactly going to be a picnic....

- This is no game. - Karaberasu interjected in a quiet voice, corroborating that impression. -  "Think about it, not even in the Black Moon did I see such cruelty...

- I find it very hard to believe that even Roy doesn't stand a chance against those monsters," - Ami whispered with obvious uneasiness. -

- Whoops, whoops, whoops," - Usagi, who was starting to look really scared now, muttered. - What are we going to be able to do then?

         She looked at her friends as if they had a shared secret that they couldn't reveal but would be a serious stumbling block, though none of the others said anything.

- There is strength in numbers, don't despair, you are Sailor Moon. - Mamoru then encouraged her. - Besides, with that Roy guy on our side, we're sure we'll be able to take them on.

-Yes, and we have full confidence in you. You always know how to get out of any situation well. - Cooan said with a nod from her sisters. -

- We must prepare a strategy," - Luna interjected. - A plan of action for the fight, which, from what I've heard, is not going to be a walk in the park.

- Besides, there's that cult and their acolytes, right? - Artemis added, weighing up all the information he remembered. - They're another threat.

- You don't have to worry too much about them. - Cooan replied more calmly. - We'll be able to defeat them and the lowly demons without a problem.

- Leave that to us," - Mamoru said, "and we'll take the strain off you. Then we'll all fight the bigger demons together.

- Maybe we should call in the other warriors," – Minako suggested. - They are more powerful than us.

- What other warriors? - Petz asked blankly. - Are there more? - Rei nodded, to which her companion added in surprise. - We only knew about you!

- You see, in the last few years four new female warriors have appeared. -  Makoto intervened, who told the sisters in passing what had happened since then. - They are the warriors from outer space, we call them the Outers.

- The Outers? - Petz repeated, commenting. - I think I've heard that name before. Our father mentioned it sometimes. When he went on those diplomatic missions. If I remember correctly, they were the warriors in charge of defending the outside of the solar system. The ones closest to Nemesis.

-I don't remember. - Bertie commented. -

-Naturally, you were still very young. - Kalie interjected, agreeing with her older sister. - It's familiar to me too. In fact, when our father disappeared in mysterious circumstances in space aboard a ship, it was rumoured at Court that they were the ones who eliminated him.

-That is not true. - Usagi rebutted, rather seriously for her. - I assure you, they had nothing to do with it.

She knew that those warriors had been injured when they were caught in the Black Moon's attack, they had to be hospitalized until they recovered from their wounds. Besides, at that time only the sailors Uranus and Neptune were active. Saturn, as the sailor of destruction, remained dormant and Pluto, in her role as the guardian of time, guarded the gate of Cronus. In fact, it was through her that Chibiusa was able to travel into the past. Perhaps these reflections were reflected on her face, giving a misleading impression, as the sisters looked at each other uneasily and Cooan said in a conciliatory tone.

-Don't worry. We already assume it was just another of the Wiseman's lies. Surely these girls are as kind and brave as you are. I beg you, if you can, to contact them.

- Yes, I'll call them, I'll see that they come as soon as possible. If they are free over there. - The Sailor Moon asserted. -

All the others agreed. The new arrivals settled into a hotel within a few hours and Usagi contacted the others. Apparently they were finishing up some research on the other issue the sailors were concerned about. They would be there, though it was still going to take a while. Beruche meanwhile received a call from Roy and informed him that her friends had finally come. He was very encouraged to hear this. He also whispered some things into her earpiece that made the girl blush. It was so obvious that even her sisters looked at her puzzled.

-Roy stuff. - She smiled, feeling really embarrassed. -

           And the curious thing is that far from being piquant or even foul phrases, they were of great tenderness and affection. The girl hung up, wishing to talk to him in person. For his part, Tom told Roy that he had discovered the secret lair of the sect by intercepting more conversations. Or so he told his friend.

-The information April has given me has been decisive. - the boy thought. - In spite of all the slander about her, the poor girl just wanted to help.

A couple of hours before that, and after spending some time with Roy cheering him up, Tom told him that he had to go out to rehab. His friend offered to accompany him, but he politely declined, declaring.

-The girls must be worried. We haven't spoken to them in hours. It might be a good idea to call them and see what they have to say. If I'm not mistaken, their friends should have arrived by now.

-You're right. They'll be wondering why we didn't go with them. - His companion nodded. -I'll tell them that we wanted to give them space to talk about their things.

And while his companion took care of that, Tom set off for the area where he had arranged to meet April. On the way, though, he passed some girls from the cheerleading squad.

-Hi," - he greeted them warmly. - Have you seen April? - He wanted to know with total naturalness. -

He was struck by the looks the girls gave each other, then looked at him, almost giving the impression that they felt sorry for him. He didn't like that too much, but in the end, one of them, a girl named Susy, who was a close friend of Connie's, offered.

-I think I know where she is. I can come with you.

-Thank you. - He replied. -

The others seemed anxious to leave, and soon did. Tom looked at the girl with him and asked.

- Is it because of something I said?

-No, not at all. - Susy sighed, looking at him in dismay. -

What surprised the boy the most, though, was when the cheerleader commented.

-Don't believe a word those gossips say.

- Don't believe a word of what? - Tom asked with a puzzled look on his face. -

His companion hesitated for a moment, and then asked him in a considerate tone.

-We can go over there and I'll tell you about it, shall we?

Tom nodded, and on the way, the girl said in a stern tone.

-There are many rumours about April, and one, above all, that I've heard that I don't believe. They say she, and Connie.

- Connie? - he exclaimed. - What's she got to do with it?

Susy's gesture tensed, her look implied that she felt very uncomfortable, but, in spite of that, she said quietly to the boy, bending down almost to the point where she could whisper in his ear.

-Some girls claim to have seen her with April in the locker room, you know, alone. And that April was coming on to her.

Her conversation partner's reaction was eloquent, he shook his head and smiled in disbelief. Then he replied in a calm tone.

-I am convinced that this is not true. And if it were, my girlfriend would have told me. On the other hand, I don't know what April will think of it, or if she has any feelings for Connie. But I am not the one to judge her, neither in that, nor in any other aspect. Everyone lives their lives as best they can.

Susy smiled in return and commented with heartfelt admiration.

- You're a great boy, Connie's lucky to have you, Tom.

-And I'm lucky to have her. Now, please. Do you know where April is? I need to talk to her about some more serious things than unsubstantiated rumours. - He insisted, dropping the subject. -

His companion indeed answered him with a tone full of respect and consideration.

-She was in the locker room, alone. Crying. I don't know why. Perhaps all this has reached her ears.

-Call her, please, I can't go in there. - The young man asked her. -

Susy went in, warning her companion with caution. She was indeed already changed, but sat on a bench with her head buried in her hands.

-April, it's Tom Rodney, he wants to talk to you.

As the girl made no reply, Susy, full of regret for her, added, laying a hand on the wretch's right shoulder.

-He's a good boy, he knows the rumours, but he doesn't care.

-Thank you. - Her interlocutor was able to reply at last. - I'll be right there...

And it didn't take long for Susy to get up and wash her face, Susy decided that she was too much there. She left after saying goodbye to Tom who was waiting outside. A few seconds later April came out with her eyes still red.

-You don't have to worry about what they say about you. - Her partner encouraged her. -

-Thank you very much, but that's not what torments me. I am as I am. And I am no longer ashamed of it. But I am very frightened for all of us. If they succeed we will have no salvation. - The young woman mused. -

-They won't, we'll stop them. - Tom affirmed resolutely. -

-I told you they were thinking of summoning a terrible demon. - She reminded him. - What could Connie and the others do in front of him?

-They are not alone. - The boy smiled brightly, though he couldn't help but show his sadness. -

-I know who they are. - His companion confessed to him. - She and her sisters are those Justiciera fighters. And they saved me! That's what I told Connie the other day. We were here alone..." - She wanted to explain. -

But Tom held up a hand, stopping her mid-sentence to affirm.

-You don't have to justify yourself. Everyone is free to have their own preferences. I only hope you didn't tell Connie about her sister Kalie. The Lady of Thunder, - he clarified. -

-You don't have to worry about that, I would never do anything like that. - April sentenced. - That poor girl sacrificed herself so that others like me could be freed from that terrible situation. However, now, with the power that those madmen are going to invoke on Earth, we've already done something about it.

-We've already done something about it, don't be afraid. - Tom wanted to calm her down. - Now we just need to know where their new headquarters are.

-Yes, that's exactly what I wanted to talk to you about. My sister was able to tell me its location. After that I asked her to run away. To hide. - She commented now with growing unease. - Even though it's been several hours and she hasn't called me, I'm afraid she's been found out and these guys have no mercy. If they find out that she has given them away..." She sobbed in panic. –

-I will see to it that Connie, her sisters and other friends who will come to help them, will see to it that your sister and niece are protected. You have my word. - The young man declared. -

               That cheered April up, the girl felt her hopes revived. She was quick to fill her partner in on everything Paige had told her. Then they said goodbye. With this new information Tom gave them, the whole group gathered to prepare for the attack. Roy told them that he was going up against a powerful demon but that they shouldn't worry. Later he met with Beruche. He had told him he had a surprise. Tom and Cooan were also going out together and the four of them arranged to go.

- Hey baby! - Roy greeted his partner with a broad smile. - We're going to the university, there's a song contest at the karaoke...

- Was that the surprise? - Bertie asked inquisitively. -

- That's right, I'm going to take part, are you up for it, Tom? - he offered his friend. -

- No thanks," - he replied, declining the invitation with a faint smile. - I'm sure you'll win.

And his companion thanked him for the gesture. Apart from the fact that Tom didn't feel much like singing. But he did accompany him to the piano, which he could play very well. He was well aware that his friend was going to do that for a very special purpose, as it was. Roy participated with a song by his most admired singer. It was very romantic, too romantic for what he was used to, even tinged with sadness.

***You had to kill the conversation***

***You always had the upper hand***

***Got caught in love and stepped in sinking sand***

***You had to go and ruin all our plans***

***Packed your bags, and you're leaving home***

***Got a one-way ticket, and you're all set to go***

***But we have one more day together, so***

***Love me like there's no tomorrow***

***Hold me in your arms, tell me you mean it***

***This is our last goodbye, and, very soon, it will be over***

***But today just love me like there's no tomorrow***

***I guess we drift alone in separate ways***

***I don't have all that far to go***

***God knows I learnt to play the lonely man***

***I've never felt so low in all my life***

***We were born to be just losers***

***So I guess there's a limit on how far we go***

***But we only have one more day together, so***

***Love me like there's no tomorrow***

***Hold me in your arms, tell me you mean it***

***This is our last goodbye, and, very soon, it will be over***

***But today just love me like there's no tomorrow***

***Tomorrow, God knows just where I'll be***

***Tomorrow, who knows just what's in store for me?***

***Anything can happen, but we only have one more day together, yeah***

***Just one more day forever, so***

***Love me like there's no tomorrow***

***Hold me in your arms, tell me you mean it***

***This is our last goodbye, and, very soon, it will be over***

***But today just love me like there's no tomorrow, so***

***Love me like there's no tomorrow***

***Hold me in your arms, tell me you mean it***

***This is our last goodbye, and, very soon, it will be over***

***But today just love me like there's no tomorrow***

**(Love me like there is no tomorrow, Freddie Mercury, credit to the artist)**

Everyone was thrilled, surprised by this change of style. He dedicated it to Bertie, who even shed a few tears as she smiled. The others congratulated him, including Melanie and Malcolm who had attended the recital.

-Of course, Malden. I must say, you're quite an artist. - The rugged football player declared - Anymore and you'll make even me cry.

-Thank you, Roberts. - His interlocutor smiled, shaking his hand. -

-That was a beautiful song. I can tell you love Bertie from the bottom of your heart. – An excited Melanie said, smiling and affirming. - I'm happy for you.

Her friend nodded, although the head cheerleader seemed to sense something odd about him. He was sad, at least she thought he was. She couldn't ask him about it anyway. She and her boyfriend said goodbye to the boy. The others approached.

-I don't know, Malcolm. Something's not right..." - she confided to her companion. -

- You mean Malden? I see him as usual. - The boy shrugged his shoulders. -

-He's got that kind of look. The same look he had when he lost his parents..." - The head cheerleader mused, watching the boy from afar. - And I think he's trying to hide something....

           Although she couldn't see him anymore. She turned a corner together with Roberts and the two of them got lost in another corridor. She had another problem that troubled her greatly. Her partner was in a total funk. Melanie was no stranger to insidious gossip about April and Connie. It was clear that they were totally unfounded. Just look at her cheerleading partner with Tom.

-They are totally in love. I can tell. And if April is in love with Connie, I'm sure she knows it's unrequited.

She was in those reflections when she and Malcolm came to the door of her room. Knocking timidly, she heard April's voice in a faint whisper sifted by sobs she could barely ask.

- Who is it?

-It's me..." - Her companion announced herself. -

And before entering, she asked her boyfriend who was watching her with a mixture of perplexity and concern.

-April is in a very bad way, she needs me by her side. You don't mind, do you?

-Of course not," – The boy agreed. - Stay with her.

-Thank you. - His girlfriend smiled at him, kissing him on the lips. -

Finally, the boy left and Melanie came in.

-Hi April. - She smiled faintly. -

Her friend didn't seem to have the courage to meet her gaze with hers, she simply sighed, muttering.

-You've heard all the stories by now, about me and Connie.

-And I don't believe any of it. - Her companion said emphatically. - It's enough for me to look at Connie when she's with Tom.

-He's a wonderful boy. - April admitted, adding by way of confession: - "And I'm not in love with her either. I love someone else...

The time had come to express what had tortured her so much. They might not have much time left if those monsters succeeded. April thought that she didn't want to die without being honest with the young woman who was watching her with a mixture of regret and curiosity, and she began to stammer.

-Mel, I...

           A while before, when the head cheerleader had said goodbye to him, Roy had stared at her, suspecting that she sensed something.  But he couldn't think about it for long, because it was the organiser of the contest who had approached him first.

-You are the undisputed champion, my boy. I hope you'll be up for a repeat next week.

- Who knows? - He was able to answer in a quiet voice. - I'd really like to...if I had the chance.

              Tom was now at his side, having left the piano. Then, before he could say anything, his friend whispered to him.

- If I can't come, I'll leave you in charge of singing for me. Promise?

- But Roy, don't be silly, of course you'll come back. - Tom encouraged his companion with more desire than any semblance of reality. -

- And why shouldn't you be able to come? - Beruche asked him as he approached, forcing a somewhat uneasy smile as he caught the latter. -

He winked and whispered in his ear.

- Then Tom can sing again, silly, he needs a push to get back to his old self.

            Bertie smiled, it was a very nice idea, and she and Roy said goodbye to Cooan and Tom, for the latter expressed a wish to spend the evening with the girl. As a matter of fact, he also wished his companion to have the evening to devote to Cooan's sister. So the two of them left, and on the way Connie remarked to her fiancé.

-Roy was very strange. Is something wrong with him?

-No, it's just that they have something very important to tell your sister, that's all. - He was able to answer. -

And trying to stop the girl from going on with the subject, he said to her.

-I've spoken to your friend Susy and April.

To Connie's astonishment and indignation, he told her what had happened. The girl immediately commented.

-She's a good girl. It's true that she discovered my identity as a Justiciera, but she's very grateful to us. And whether she's a lesbian or not is nobody's business.

-That's right. - Her boyfriend, who was rolling the wheels of his chair in the direction of his room agreed when he remarked to Cooan. - Perhaps we'd better get some proper rest. Tomorrow will be a very important day.

And the girl nodded. She escorted him to his room and, bending down to kiss him on the lips, wished him good night. Tom entered with the only thought that was really on his mind. The terrible fate that awaited his companion and friend.

-Lord, protect him and give him strength. - He was able to plead before he lay down on his bed. -

           For their part, Roy and Bertie also walked off together with their arms around each other's waists. They left the college for a walk in the still, starry night. The boy looked up at the sky and sighed. Beruche, who was clinging to one of his arms, said softly as her long platinum hair, now loose, swayed in the night breeze.

- What's on your mind? You seem very serious tonight.

- So much fighting, so many battles. I wish they were over now and that we could live peacefully and happily. - He replied in a reflective voice. -

- You'll beat that demon and God willing it will be over at last. - She encouraged him. -

- I hope so. - Roy wished and then looked into her eyes, he had an expression that surprised Beruche, of pleading for something indescribable that was very familiar to him but that he could not place in his memories. - Please Bertie, come with me tonight. I have many things to tell you. - He asked her. -

- Like the ones you told me on the phone? - she smiled, adding almost in a mischievous voice. - My sisters thought they must be things unsuitable for my chaste ears. hee, hee, hee!

-Your sisters are wonderful and very clever. But you are everything I want to have by my side. Especially tonight. - He caressed his interlocutor's cheeks, stroking her cheeks. -

The girl looked back at him in surprise. She had once thought that Roy would ask her something like that, she doubted whether she was ready or not, but when she saw his face she agreed. He took her to his flat. He pulled her into his arms and they began to kiss. He breathed in the scent of her hair and kissed her neck and lips softly. He wanted to lose himself in the caresses that the young woman was lavishing on him, as if there really was no tomorrow. At the same time Beruche was taking off her clothes and the boy was also starting to undress, but he was unable to continue. A feeling of anguish was gripping him, not only because of his upcoming confrontation with the demon. There was something else that was impossible for him to comprehend. It was as if he carried it inside him, in the deepest recesses of his soul. A kind of flash went through his mind. That sad look, deep blue eyes like hers staring back at him like that. With the feeling that they would never see him again. He froze, his expression haggard. And noticing this strange behaviour, she gave him a strange look.

- Am I not doing it right? - she asked with concern. - What's the matter, Roy? You seem so strange tonight. As if you were far away.

- No, - he smiled, confessing to her without hindrance. - It's just that I love you like I've never loved anyone before and I don't want it to happen this way, not with you.

- Do you want me to leave? - His partner asked him, touched and affected, something was certainly wrong with the boy. - But what's wrong with you?

- No, please stay, sleep with me tonight. I need to feel you by my side. - He replied, somewhat overcome with emotion. - I just know I want to be with you.

Bertie came up to him and caressed his cheek and they kissed for a long time, then lay down on the bed. She snuggled against Roy's chest and whispered in his ear.

- Do you remember? It's just like when we were in the pit.

- Yes, and to tell you the truth, I would have been able to get you out by then. I was able to fly, but I wanted to be with you. I had already fallen in love with you. I'm sorry...I'm sorry you had to endure that night, with that sprain, stuck in there because of me. I was selfish then.

- I am not sorry at all. -" She smiled. - I'm so glad we spent that night together. I think that's when I fell in love with you. - Beruche confessed in turn. - But I was attracted to you before that. Although I didn't want to admit it, even to myself, you were so silly sometimes, hee, hee, hee - She smiled with that fresh musicality, a mixture of candour and mischievousness that he liked so much. -

- I think I realised what I really felt when we played in the snow. - He sighed, letting her head rest on his chest as he said. - I've never seen a prettier girl. Perhaps only in my dreams. When I was a child I dreamed of fairies and beautiful princesses. Especially one...

- Kelly? - his interlocutor wanted to guess. -

-No, it was long before I met Kelly.  - He confessed, now paradoxically remembering things from his childhood. - She was such a beautiful and sweet girl...with intensely blue eyes and long hair the same colour as yours. As a child I could see her clearly, in a beautiful white dress. Then I forgot her...at least until I met you. I don't remember her name, but to me she was the Snow Queen, the Lady of Winter. - He sighed. -

-In that she certainly looked like me. - The young woman affirmed. -

-Yes. Though I don't remember dreaming of her scolding me. - He smiled now. -

Bertie smiled at the witticism, and, leaning back a little on his chest, kissed him, and he kissed her back. They moved on to some more passionate kisses. Even caresses and foreplay before making love. However, Roy was not able to go beyond that point. That had never happened to him before. At the girl's surprised expression, he could only declare.

-You are the most important thing in my life. I've never loved anyone like that. Not even Kelly, not even my parents. God forgive me for saying this... But you're so wonderful, little cube. I often think you deserve someone so much better than a fool like me. What if..., what if something bad were to happen....

The girl covered his lips with a hand, she didn't want to hear that. Roy certainly looked strange. Maybe worried. Although she didn't want to spoil the evening with questions. The girl just gave him a warm kiss and said with a jovial tone.

-There was a time when I thought love was a useless feeling. And when my sister and the sailors convinced me to want to live, I came to wonder if I could ever feel that kind of love. Now I see that I can and that it is the most powerful of all. And there can be no one better for me than you...

The young man smiled gratefully, deciding to put aside his fears. They talked for a while more, remembering all the moments they had shared, finally sleep overcame them and they fell asleep in each other's arms. Roy had a dream, but this time it was not a pleasant one. He was enveloped in a noise of clashing steel and shouting men, howling beasts and bursts of energy bolts. He was fighting himself, he could not see himself well, but he felt different and he knew that in this battle he was doomed to lose dramatically. A figure in black armour shouted something he could not understand and attacked him, and he only saw from an aerial perspective his own body lying amidst a sea of corpses and broken banners. Startled, he awoke before dawn. He calmed down as he got up, the dream evaporated from his memory. From the terrace of the flat he had a wonderful view of the Brooklyn Bridge. The morning was cool and clear of clouds. He put a CD of Queen, his favourite band, on his stereo, and from it his favourite song, "Who Wants to Live Forever".

***There's no time for us***

***There's no place for us***

***What is this thing that builds our dreams, yet slips away from us***

***Who wants to live forever***

***Who wants to live forever oh***

***There's no chance for us***

***It's all decided for us***

***This world has only one sweet moment set aside for us***

***Who wants to live forever***

***Who dares to love forever oh yeah***

***Who wants to live forever oh***

***When love must die***

***But touch my tears with your lips***

***Touch my world with your fingertips***

***And we can have forever***

***And we can love forever***

***Forever is our today***

***Who wants to live forever***

***Who wants to live forever***

***Forever is our today***

***Who waits forever anyway***

**(Who wants to live forever, QUEEN, credit to the artist)**

Roy listened to that melody, singing at times in a quiet voice, and felt deeply that the words of that song would come true for him. He wept helplessly, his voice tinged with anguish and grief. He wiped his tears at once so that Bertie would not notice it as he gave her a look full of love and renunciation. Then she awoke, surprised at first to be there, but at once she remembered what had happened last night, and rose without a word, and hugged him from behind. He gently disengaged and slipped one of his arms around her shoulders to shield her from the morning dew, whispering wistfully to her.

- It will be dawn and a new day will come. It fills me with melancholy, of events I can't remember, it's a sensation I can't explain. It seems to me that I lived it in another moment, another time and place far away, but I know that I lived it with you, I'm convinced of that.

- I feel the same," - she mused, affirming with resolution. - And I know we'll find out, I'm sure of it.

- We'll have all our lives to do it. - She dared to say with a trembling voice to declare herself. - Bertie, when all this is over I want to make you my wife, if you'll have me. - Roy smiled warmly at her, stroking her chin gently. - I want to be with you forever.

The girl was surprised and excited, her eyes were shining with contained joy, making her want to cry with happiness. She didn't know what to say, or she did know, forever... She hugged the boy, then looked at him smiling and nodded. Finally, she was able to answer.

- But first we must finish the degree, then I will accept. - She made the only condition. -

-I promise, I'll graduate with you and then we'll get married. We will be together until the end. - Roy agreed, returning her a smile full of joy. - Till the end of everything. - He mused. -

             For him at least that beautiful and impossible promise would be enough. He would have something he could always take with him wherever he went after that day. Beruche hugged him tightly. Roy kept laughing as she looked at him, but when she stopped, his expression changed. His face reflected great sadness. He gazed at the girl he loved, took delight in stroking her hair and hugged her tightly, kissing her on the forehead. He did not want time to pass. He knew that when he let her go he could never have her by his side again and the hardest thing for him would be to lose her. The sun was already rising over the eastern horizon and began to warm them, slowly and gradually bathing them in its light. They both watched the birth of that beautiful morning that seemed to signify the beginning of something new and at the same time familiar to both of them. To the strains of that song. But everything was already mapped out. Bertie was to go with the girls to finalise the details of the plan and Roy would have to face his terrible fate alone.

**START**