GWA41E

**START**

**Nephrite versus Aspiez.**

After taking a while, due to the traffic jams on the roads of many, many vehicles leaving New York, Malcolm and Melanie were able to get to the street where their friend's parents lived.

-I don't know if this is a good idea. - Roberts was hesitant, though. -

-We need to talk to her. She said some very strange things and I have the impression that it wasn't because of her illness. - Melanie commented, pleading in a knowing tone. - You and I have seen some of them.

-That's true. - Her interlocutor had to admit. -

The fact is that Melanie had phoned her father. General Sanders merely asked, or rather ordered his daughter, to stay as far away from New York as possible. But he would not give her details of what might be going on there, citing military secrecy. That was what the young woman had expected.

-Go home to your mother. - That was the instruction he gave her. -

Although Mrs Sanders lived in Augusta, in the State of Maine. She was separated from her husband who remained in Washington DC. Nevertheless, their relationship was cordial. Of course, they shared a love and concern for their only daughter.

-We can go visit my mother when we see April. And then we can go see your parents and siblings. - Melanie commented to her boyfriend. -

-My house is in the opposite direction. To get to Lexington, we'd have to travel a lot of miles. Don't worry, Mel. I'll call my family, tell them we're fine, and we'll go see your mother later.

They agreed, and after reassuring their relatives, they finally arrived at April's parents' house. They knocked on the door with an uneasy gesture, but to their surprise it was the girl herself who opened it, exclaiming with joy.

- Mel, Malcolm! How do you do here?

At first neither seemed to know what to say. At last, Melanie hesitantly spoke up, forcing a smile.

-We came to see how you were doing.

-I'm much better, thank you. I've had some tests. I fainted. That's what my parents told me, when I was rehearsing. They also told me that you told them and that they were able to take me to the hospital. Even though I was unconscious for several days you were there. Thank you very much.

Her interlocutors looked at each other puzzled. Surely that would have been the story the poor girl's parents would have told her. So, with smiles of embarrassment, they nodded.

-Please come in. - The girl asked politely. - My parents have gone out for a moment.

The two entered the house. Everything seemed quiet, the living room tidy, and April was in a great mood. However, Melanie thought she saw something strange about her companion, although she wasn't sure what it was. The atmosphere was also a little stuffy. There was too much perfume in the room. It struck her as odd. April had never worn so much cologne before, nor was she prone to using strong air fresheners. Maybe it was her parents' thing. She put that aside, and at her hostess's invitation, she and Malcolm took a seat on a sofa that presided over the room.

-Tell us," -he said, - "So is everyone all right? - Roberts asked, commenting. - What they're saying on the news is very worrying.

-Yes, these terrorists are very dangerous. They must have an atomic bomb or something. And a lot of followers too. But I think the army and the police have closed the entrances to New York. I'm sure everything will be sorted out soon. - My parents went to buy food and bottled water. I don't think we'll need it, but it's better to be safe. In case we have to take shelter in the basement. – April laughed. -

Her friends looked at each other with astonishment. It seemed as if the girl had no memory at all. After chatting with her for a while, reminiscing about old times, they decided not to bother her any more.

-We must leave you, I have to go and see my mother, she lives in Maine and I suppose she'll be safe?

-But it's better to be safe, I understand you. - April smiled in solidarity. -

She gave Melanie a big hug which she reciprocated. Then a softer one to Roberts. Accompanying them to the door, she commented jovially.

-I'm sure she'll be fine. Take care of yourselves and if you need anything, please. Give me a call.

The two visitors nodded and left. After closing the door, April watched them walk away, peering through a window. She smiled grimly and muttered.

-Nice try. I admit you're really good. But I didn't fall into your trap. Nor did I fall for those tricksters who claimed to be my parents.

Just then, she noticed those dark hairs of hers still sticking out from under her auburn hair.

- How careless! - she sighed to herself. - If I want to pretend to be April, I have no choice but to do it right. Good thing Melanie didn't notice. That backstabbing sister of mine let them take Marla away, I'll never forgive her for that!

She went to the bathroom, where she had that bottle of dye. She looked at it thoughtfully and muttered.

-It's time for me to get my looks and go and fetch my girl.

             Parallel to these events, on the moor the fighting was going on. During a brief pause before the next fight, the two groups looked at each other in silent study. Nephrite, in his confidence, turned quietly to Roy.

- I don't think that guy will last long, I'll finish him off in no time.

- Don't underestimate him," - his companion warned him in a serious tone. - They are dangerous enemies, and be careful my friend, I don't think this one will fall into the same trap as the others now that they have seen that we are not just puppets. Don't ever let your guard down and fight like you know! - He finished his harangue to add a friendly and hopeful voice. - Good luck to you.

The interpellated affirmed with a nod of his head and moved towards the fighting ground, in his mind remained those last words he whispered to Naru. That young human girl who had managed to open her heart to kindness. Those days seemed so long ago, when he was appointed by his then ruler, the cruel Queen Beryl, to obtain the rainbow crystals in order to awaken the seven demons contained therein. At first he tried to do it with human energy that he obtained from his many stratagems. And in one of them, he met this girl, who was candid, sweet and who, in spite of everything, fell in love with him. At first Nephrite judged her to be just another human weakness that he could exploit to his advantage. But he soon realised that, far from being absurd, it was a good and noble sentiment that restored him to his lost status as an earthly prince. He remembered when he had not yet been possessed by evil and, in his other life, he protected his lord Endymion. But the demon Metalia killed them and reincarnated them as his servants. Dominated by their evil, they tried to destroy the Earth and the princess who had been reborn on it. However, when he began to live under the identity of Masato Sanjouin and came into contact with Naru, she discovered for him the world of small things like chocolate dessert, which he never got to taste. The truth is, he tried to use the girl to get Sailor Moon to appear and defeat her, but his scheming and malevolent colleague Zoisite beat him to it. He abducted Naru through his demon minions and demanded the black crystal from him, the only means of locating the rainbow crystals. Nephrite couldn't give it to him, but neither was he able to stand idly by despite repeating ad nauseam that he didn't care about the fate of a human. But he tried to convince himself to no avail. By then his heart had already been touched by her. So he rescued her and got her out of the place where she was hidden. Then the two of them talked and he was completely honest for the first time since he could remember. He told the girl who he really was and what he had intended. And to her astonishment Naru didn't care. He still remembered the girl's words when, after rescuing her from Zoisite's henchmen, he carried her in his arms and she sighed gratefully.

-You came to save me, thank you very much.

-Don't thank me. I don't even know why I did it. - He was certainly puzzled by his own actions, and more so when, in spite of his own astonishment, he confessed to her. - I have been deceiving you all the time. I'm a villain at heart, I always have been, and that's something that won't change.

-I don't care," - the girl smiled, leaving him even more surprised when she added sweetly. - As long as you are by my side, I don't mind being deceived.

           He left her standing on the floor looking at her in astonishment. The girl was still smiling at him in that special way that he felt in his heart, sweeping away any other feelings, even the negative ones he had as the general of Metallia. Then Naru looked in several directions with a worried gesture, nearby was a park and she took him by the hand and led him inside. They sought shelter by sitting leaning against a tree. The girl, tearing part of her own pyjama jacket, said uneasily when she saw traces of her then greenish blood, affected by a devilster's attack.

-You've been hurt because of me. I'm so sorry! And those devils might come back.

-Don't worry," - he smiled, playing it down. - It's nothing.

      Nevertheless, she did a good job of bandaging the scratch, and he was able to move his arm freely.

-Thank you very much. - The boy was able to say, in truth, as much as he recognised and was surprised by the degree of attention and affection that the young girl had shown him.  -

-Mr. Sanjouin," - the girl told him shyly, almost embarrassedly. - Nearby they make a delicious chocolate dessert. And I was wondering, do you like chocolate?

-Yes, I do," - he said hesitantly, he didn't even know what it was. -

         But the girl noticed it immediately as she replied softly, but at the same time forcefully.

-You are lying. But you do it out of kindness and with elegance.

-I am very sorry. - He was able to say, pleading as an excuse. - I don't really know how to speak to others without lying. It is so ingrained in my kingdom that I often find it difficult to tell the truth, even in such trivial matters. There it is normal for us to lie and betray each other.

-Don't worry, I don't mind," - she smiled shyly and added almost dreamily. - I had thought that if you and I could go and have that chocolate dessert sometime, it would be very nice, don't you think?

-Yes," - he replied then, though now firmly. - We'll go sometime.

- Do you really mean it? - she said hopefully. -

- Do you think I'm lying to you now? - He was able to reply, and this time he was able to express what he really felt. -

-No, I know you mean it. I'm so happy!

          The truth is that then he thought why not. After what had happened it would be best to leave the kingdom of darkness. To abandon those evil ones, he now disowned and even join Sailor Moon to fight them. He could be of great help. He knew their location and their plans, and what they wanted to do with this world no longer seemed so right. Especially if it threatened good people like Naru. The irony of it all was that he himself wanted to use this as a ruse. Defecting to join the enemy was a lie he had told that girl in the hope that she would reveal to him where Sailor Moon was. Now he wished it were possible. He was meditating on this when the girl looked at him with an innocent expression and asked.

- Is there a day in your world when you don't have to work because it's a holiday?

        Nephrite was surprised. He had never heard of such a thing. He had to laugh to the delight of the girl, who pointed it out to him.

- You have laughed! What nonsense! I laugh and cry at the same time!

It was then that he felt that something was wrong. Zoisite's cursed henchmen had treacherously attacked them, catching him off guard at that moment. Nephrite was mortally wounded when he was pierced by a twisted arm of one youma and then stepped into the shockwave of several explosions caused by another, shielding the young woman with his own body. Yet he was still able to protect her by handing the black crystal to his foes. His colleague and opponent mocked him cruelly, but he didn't care about that. He only suffered for the girl and she shed tears for him. Although the boy, seeing his end was coming, asked her to flee, the girl refused to leave his side. That was the last thing that finally opened his heart. The Sailors came to his aid by destroying those demons, but it was too late. He died in Naru's embrace and her clean tears washed his soul. Then he arrived in Heaven and there he received the offer of Landar who spoke to him in these terms.

- You have atoned for many of your faults with your death, now, if you wish to finish cleansing your conscience, I offer you the possibility to do so.

He nodded, it was what he wanted most. He now knew what love was and discovered friendship when his other companions arrived. He had trained and worked as hard as he had ever thought possible to pass all the tests, and now it was time to see if it had been worth it. So he stood proudly in the middle of the battlefield as his opponent did the same. The tall, greenish demon with reptilian features and evil amber eyes, now sported a crest that adorned a helmet resembling the face of a prehistoric reptile. Without hesitation, he threatened Nephrite with contempt.

-Prepare yourself, poor mortal! I am the best trident fighter on Avernus.

                And he brought the weapon into view, wielding it in a truly dexterous manner, spinning it over his head and attacking without waiting for a riposte. He was very fast, and despite the young man's dodging and the protective chain mail of the special suit, the demon managed to open a wound in his chest and arm, though not too deep. The boy, bleeding profusely, covered the wound with one hand and materialised a sword in the other.

- Now you've done it, you foul fiend! - he spat at him angrily. -

He attacked his enemy with a few blows, which he parried with his trident. Nephrite stripped off his chainmail and wrapped it around his arm as a shield. It would be more useful for countering his opponent's attacks, and thus offer more resistance to the point of the weapon.

- Ha, ha! - the monster rejoiced, whirling around his opponent. - This is going to be fun.

-You bet it is. - His interlocutor agreed wryly without letting his guard down. -

Aspiez for his part materialised a net in the manner of a Roman gladiator. He dragged it along the ground like a snake, seeking to trap his opponent. The latter noticed and dodged. The demon threw the dense webbing, but missed, and Nephrite wounded him in the side. Now both were limping, juggling to demonstrate mastery of their weapons and frighten the enemy.

- You defend yourself well, mortal," - Aspiez smiled with only mock approval. - But I am far superior to you," - he added smugly. -

- That's what you think," - Nephrite responded with his characteristic coolness in a fight. - I was the best swordsman in the Kingdom of Darkness, you cretin.

-So, you're a traitor too, are you? - the demon commented with derision and contempt to top it off. - Well, now more than ever I want to finish you off.

- If you think I'm going to let you, do it, you're very wrong," - his opponent answered with a wry smile. -

They attacked each other again with swift and dangerous blows and lunges. Nephrite had to close the distance carefully, for his enemy's trident was longer than his sword, and this was an advantage to his opponent....

-I must be very careful. - the young fighter said to himself. - If I want to nullify his advantage I may have to take a great risk, but I see no alternative....

In the church, the warriors and the Justicieras looked after the children. The children were exhausted and sleepy. They settled them as best they could in the pews and gently encouraged them to sleep. Karaberasu stroked the blond hair of a child who had fallen asleep, looking at his angelic face and now without fear. This brought a real smile to her face for the first time in a long time.

-I wish my son could be like that," - she wished in her thoughts. - A normal child who can love his fellow people. An innocent child.

After observing this woman with attention and some pity, Michiru approached and took an interest in her. Gently touching one of the shoulders of the Justiciera with one hand.

-What's on your mind," - she asked cordially. -You seem very quiet. - And as she spoke, Neptune couldn't help but slyly glance at the girl's bulging belly. -

- All I can think about is that we can see the daylight again. - Her interlocutor whispered to her in a quiet voice. -To save this world and that these and all the children on Earth can live happily and peacefully.

- You are very brave," - Michiru smiled. - "You and your sisters. You fight with a lot of courage. - She also praised so she couldn't help but ask. - Is it true that you and they were once enemies of Sailor Moon and the others? Were you from the realm of Nemesis?

- Yes, it is true,"- Karaberasu admitted. - But thanks to them we discovered that we were wrong. They taught us how beautiful this world is and that we can be very happy in it. By helping others instead of wanting to use them.

- That's true," - Sailor Neptune agreed, confessing in turn. - We too know what it is like to fight hard to protect it. Many sacrifices must be made and it is often very painful.

Kalie nodded slowly without ceasing to caress the little face next to her, replying in a quiet voice.

-If our suffering can spare innocent beings like this one, it will surely be worth it. We are their only defence.

              Michiru agreed with that and couldn't help but smile with a fond smile at the scene, but her companion Uranus called out to her, she apologised to Karaberasu, and came over.

- You know that girl," - Haruka whispered to her companion as she glanced sideways at the Justiciera who was now tucking the child in her arms. - She's pregnant by a demon?

- What? Good heavens! - her interlocutor whispered, stifling an exclamation with a gesture of horror - it's horrible! How could it be?

- He raped her," - Uranus responded in a quiet, sorrowful voice. - I heard Minako talking about it with the others. And when we were about to come to reinforce them, she asked me to protect her especially.

-I think they are good friends. - Her companion affirmed. -

- Yes, they are. Venus feels very bad for her. I promised her I would do my best. -Haruka declared in judgement. - And now that I've seen her, I think it's admirable that in her situation she has the strength to stand up and fight. I don't think she could have resisted such humiliation, especially from such a being. She is a very strong woman.

- It is true, they are admirable women, all of them. I'm glad to have them on our side. - Michiru nodded, visibly impressed and sympathetic. - Hopefully their efforts will not be in vain and we can win.

-I really don't know what will happen. - Uranus commented with a tone of doubt musing to her friend. – Minako also told me, along with Makoto, what happened when that guy, Roy, died.

-I heard something. - Michiru was able to reply wanting to know. - Is it true that Usagi refused to use the planetary attack and wouldn't let them pass into the eternal phase?

-It's true. - Her companion confirmed. - Fortunately the sisters were unaware of this. They were under too much pressure and too much confusion to be heard the arguing.

-I don't understand why Sailor Moon acted like that. - Neptune said. - It's not like her at all.

-You know as well as I do that sometimes there are powerful reasons that force us to act in a way we don't like. I agree with you. Knowing Usagi, I'd bet anything that she would have been the first to intervene if there wasn't something... Something that perhaps only she knows. - Haruka commented with a hint of mystery. - And that she can't reveal...

At that moment the two fell silent, their companion Pluto approached them. She also wore a worried look on her face. When she reached her position Michiru asked her.

- You spoke to Usagi and Mamoru before you left, didn't you? Did you fill them in on the situation?

-Yes," - she replied, adding. - I told them about the progress of the negotiations. We'll soon have the task force in place. They have given us their approval for the next phase.

-And so far, those mysterious outside invaders have shown no sign of returning. - Michiru sighed. - That's fortunate.

-Thank goodness. It would have been impossible for us to deal with two fronts at the same time. - Uranus added. - We've got enough on this one.

Her companions nodded in agreement. Changing the subject, Haruka then glanced over at her partner Hotaru, who was tucking one of the children in and offering her a smile.

-There she is. The warrior of destruction. - She sighed, adding with a hint of guilt. - And many times when I look at her, like now, I only see an adorable little girl whose childhood we may be stealing from her.

Both Setsuna and Michiru looked at the girl in turn, but said nothing for a few moments. It was finally Sailor Pluto who was able to say with regret.

-There isn't a day that goes by that I don't regret taking her away from Tomoe. And I do not wish to be misunderstood. I love Hotaru as much as you do. She's almost like a daughter to me. She brings us a lot of joy. But I know that the best thing for her would be to have lived a normal childhood with her father. Without having to come back to life as a warrior again.

-She had to wake up to face Neherenia and then Galaxia. - Haruka sighed. -

-And now this. - Michiru was able to add. - It's too much for anyone...

-She'll fight forever and never complain. She's a soldier just like us. - Setsuna told them, but now she said it with a more hopeful tone. - If we can win, maybe things will change. At least she and her father might be able to make up for some of the time they've lost together.

And as her companions gazed at her in surprise at these words, Pluto explained.

-Shortly before we met with Usagi and the others, I spoke with our interlocutor. You know that he has a large fortune, many companies all over the world, and that he has been put in charge of forming the alert group. He is recruiting very talented people in all fields of science. Among them, guess who is among his priorities?

- Professor Tomoe? - Haruka was able to inquire between joyful and surprised. -

-That's right. - Her partner confirmed. -

-Then, when this is over, Hotaru could spend more time with him. - Michiru deduced and asked her interlocutor. - Have you told her?

-Not yet" - Setsuna responded. - I don't want her to be distracted now in the middle of the fight. We have to defeat the enemy first. But we'll tell her when it's all over. I hope you'll help me.

-You can count on us. - Uranus assured her with Neptune's assent. -

The three chatted for a few moments more, and Pluto soon went to spend some time with Saturn. Elsewhere in the church, Cooan was talking to Sharon. The Fire Lady was trying to lull her to sleep, but the child was unable to do so and asked her, her voice trembling with fear.

- Are the bad demons coming again? I'm so scared. What if they catch me again? I'm sure they'll hurt me, just like my parents.

- They won't be able to, honey, we'll protect you," - her interlocutor smiled cheerfully, putting an arm around the little girl's body. - Besides, none other than our friends have come to help us, the famous Sailor Warriors. They are even more powerful than us. We will win for sure! - She said, appearing convinced and winking through her mask. -

-It's true. The Ice Lady told me so. -  The child admitted, who asked in a shy, fearful little pleading voice. - Will you stay with me until I fall asleep?

- Yes dear, don't be afraid, I won't leave you alone. None of us will leave you. - Cooan insisted sweetly, caressing the little girl's cheek. - We will never leave you...

Sharon looked at Tom who stood guard with his katana near them. The boy noticed her and gave her a gentle smile despite all the fatigue and wounds he was carrying.

- That boy over there, he's your boyfriend, isn't he? I've seen you two before. - The little girl confessed mischievously, referring to a fleeting kiss that the Justiciera and the boy had given each other during a break, and added in an accomplice's voice. - You're Miss Connie.

- How did you know? - she asked in surprise as Sharon slipped the mask over her face with one of her little hands. -

- I'm a child, but I'm not stupid! - The little girl laughed now, adding with glee. - And that one over there. - She pointed to the Ice Lady. - That's Miss Bertie. I noticed her at school. When she saved me and when she laughed, she laughs just the same.

- Yes, she does. - An amused Cooan had to admit, praising the girl. - How clever you are, but keep it a secret, eh? - she asked with an accomplice smile. -

- Don't worry miss, and now tell me, isn't that boy your boyfriend? - The little girl insisted with amused interest. -

Cooan laughed she was blushed, that little girl knew how to make anyone blush, which was still funny in the middle of the whole situation. She had to nod again as she replied with a knowing whisper.

- Yes, isn't he cute?

The little girl nodded with a giggle and declared with absolute conviction.

- When I grow up, I'll have a boyfriend as handsome and as strong as he is.

- I'm sure you will. - She assured the Justiciera with a big smile and added as she put her mask back on. - You're such a naughty girl!

           She tickled the girl's tummy, which made the little girl giggle. Cooan felt happy, those innocent childish words and laughter of pure joy and fun were like a balm for everyone. Even her sisters and the sailors, who noticed the little girl's laughter, smiled encouragingly. But there was no point in shocking and waking up the other children. So, the Justiciera interrupted her tickling and whispered affectionately to the baby.

- Now go to sleep, Sharon, and I'll be by your side. I promise.

The little girl drifted off to sleep, she was exhausted and her eyes finally closed, but her face wore a confident and happy expression for the first time in a long time. Her teacher stared at her for a few moments as if hypnotised, then carefully tucked a blanket around her and gave her a warm kiss on the cheek. This was what they were fighting for, worth the sacrifice if these children could survive and become happy in a better world. Now more than ever Cooan thought that she was finally settling the debt that still weighed her down in the bottom of her heart. She remembered the time, when she and her sisters and their evil ex-boss attacked Sailor Moon and Chibiusa. Usagi protected the little girl again and again, not caring to suffer Rubeus' onslaught of energy blasts. Meanwhile, the four of them fought against the rest of the warriors who came to the aid of their friend. The battle was fierce, and eventually the members of the Black Moon were driven back and had to retreat. But she did not forget that. Moreover, she could not understand why Sailor Moon put herself in such danger to save that girl. Now at last, she understood. In fact, she had to smile when she realised that she was doing the same.

-Thank you my friends, thank you so much for helping me understand and giving me a chance to make it up to the world for what I did. - She thought acknowledged as she gently stroked the hair of little Sharon who was already asleep. - I will not disappoint you.

        On the battlefield, Sailors Mars and Jupiter put the plan in motion. With the utmost care they crept towards the demon guarding the stones. He was so engrossed in the fight between Nephrite and Aspiez that he didn't notice anything. Mars motioned for her friend to creep around him. While Rei quietly cast a paralyzing spell that enveloped him. When she was ready, she signalled Jupiter again and her companion approached the unsuspecting guardian. Then she said in a matter-of-fact tone, as if she really cared about what he was asking.

- Excuse me, Mr. Demon, isn't this the bus stop for Tokyo? I've been looking for hours and nothing. And the worst thing is that I think I've missed it. Do you know when the next one will leave?

The questioner, surprised to see this human asking such a silly question, and above all that she had dared to stand there, was puzzled. After a few moments, though, he reacted by preparing to attack, but he was paralysed. He couldn't even howl! Makoto winked and whispered an amused "thank you" and alerted the others. The sailors couldn't believe their luck, they only went for one orb and managed to get them all! When all was in order and with the same stealth Ami and Minako approached and made a chain with their companions who passed the stones to them. Mamoru urged them with a whisper to hurry up. But the good fortune did not last forever and a pair of demons from the fourth circle noticed what was happening. They attacked the sailors with swords. Tuxedo Kamen intervened and fought one of them, hurling several red roses at him, which struck his enraged foe in the chest. With the staff, Tuxedo parried the sword blows of the touched, but still very strong and dangerous demon. Usagi came to his aid, launching the "Moon Therapy Kiss" against the demon. This left her opponent badly wounded, Mamoru finished him off with more roses, the few he had left, making him explode.

- One down! - he declared. -

The other demon was fighting Ami, Makoto and Minako at the same time. It took their attacks, but wounded them with its energy beams. Rei came to the aid of her teammates with her Burning Mandala. Usagi finished him off by using her attack again and her enemy exploded. Makoto and Minako were badly injured and Ami was tending to them as best she could. Rei and Usagi were exhausted, Tuxedo Kamen realising that their situation was already untenable if their enemies attacked them again used the communicator and called the other warriors. Setsuna received the message.

- This is Pluto speaking, what is it, Your Highness? - she asked, tempering her unease. -

- Do you have the situation under control over there? - her interlocutor asked. -

- Yes, everything is calm here for now. - Setsuna confirmed. -

- Then get over here as soon as possible! - Mamoru asked her urgently as he gave her an update. - Jupiter and Venus are wounded and the sailors Moon, Mars and Mercury are exhausted. We have recovered the stones, but we will not be able to withstand another attack. And it won't be long before those demons realise what has happened.

- Roger that," - her interlocutor answered. - We'll be there as soon as we can, over. - She turned off the transmitter and ran to inform her companions. Once they did, Haruka turned to Petz and explained the situation. -

- We have to go help our friends. I guess you won't have too much trouble here. However, if you have any complications, just call and we'll send as many as we can to help you.

- Don't worry about us. - The Justiciera replied in a confident tone to relieve her of that problem. - We will be able to handle the situation.

- We are sure of it. - Michiru said with a smile of approval. - Good luck to you, fellows.

-You too. It was an honour to meet you. - Kalie replied. -

-The honour was ours. - Hotaru smiled as her companions nodded. – Please, take good care of yourselves...and protect these people.

-We will. - Bertie nodded. -

So they said their goodbyes. As soon as they were halfway out, Sailor Saturn remarked to the others.

- I'm only sorry we haven't told them about their companions. It's a shame we couldn't.

- You know what's going on," - Haruka interjected with good logic. - We'd better wait until the fight is over, I wouldn't want to give them false hope if they fail.

- You're right," - Setsuna agreed. - We'll check with our teammates. See if Sailor Moon sees fit to tell them. Right now, though, the first thing is to support them. The situation there must be critical. Come on, we have to hurry!

            And the four of them sped across the area, which was now curiously free of enemies. Possibly they had all gathered around the moor to watch the fighting. The Justicieras, for their part, sat in a moment of repose, some other people offered to keep watch and they were grateful for it. They were very fatigued, though they had eaten those poor rations they had hardly rested in the last few hours and the continuous fighting was already taking its obvious toll on their increasingly weakened bodies, but they tried hard to forget about it all and talk. It was Petz who said thoughtfully.

- Perhaps we should go with them, in case our help is needed there.

- No, we should stay here," - Tom countered. - The church is safe for now, but if the demons breach it they could attack with energy bolts.

- Besides, we are too weak to engage in further combat that is not strictly defensive.  - Cooan reminded them with a helpless sigh. - If we take one step out of here and they surprise us, it's over.

- Anyway, our stones don't flicker now, there are no demons around. - Petz argued coherently. -

- They're retreating, beyond our reach," - Karaberasu said worriedly, and to the surprised faces of the others, she insisted. - I know, I can feel it! Now they are slowly retreating towards the summoning point, something serious is going to happen.

- What is it? - Beruche wanted to know, just as astonished as the others. -

- I can't explain it, but I can feel it. - Kalie replied and, to the great concern and astonishment of the rest of her sisters and Tom, she warned the priest with urgent concern. - Father, please! - I wish to go to confession and communion if you don't mind.

- Of course not, child," - the priest who even seemed happy to receive the request, smiled. - "How can I mind? It is my obligation and my vocation and I will do it with pleasure. If something is troubling you, you must make your peace with God.

           She nodded, though she overlooked the important detail that she was not baptised in that faith. Nevertheless, she wanted to think that God would understand and above all she wanted to get out all her fears and doubts and even regrets she had in her past life. She was not very explicit, although she did not need to be. She only stated that she was sorry for having been an instrument of evil and the priest nodded. He was a man of understanding and courageous spirit. Even when he heard about the girl's demonic pregnancy, he absolved her of everything she had done so far.

-Father, I killed him myself. And I did it in hatred. - She sighed as she told him. -

-That was normal, under the circumstances. - The cleric replied sympathetically. -

-Now I just want my child to be born well, and to be safe. - The young woman sobbed. -

-Our Lord has put you through terrible trials, but I am convinced that you are part of His plan. May this child, conceived in these horrible circumstances, bring light into this world and be able to fight the darkness.

-I only wish for him to be a normal child. - She said. -

-I give you both my blessing. - The priest responded, making the sign of the cross over the anguished woman. - May our Lord always be at your side to protect you. As you protect others inspired by Him.

          She then experienced a feeling of great peace and felt as if her strength was returning to her. She was now firmly convinced to fight and never falter, no matter what happened in her life. Even if she had to be alone. The priest also repeated the suggestion that, when the child was born, she should take it to him or to any other parish priest. And he added kindly.

- Heed the advice my fellow priest gave you and stay in the holy place as long as you can, it will be of great benefit to both of you. Both you and your son.

- Yes, thank you father. I feel much better. As if I have peace. - Karaberasu replied, curling up on a bench in utter exhaustion and muttering as the Ice Lady approached. - Forgive me, but I'm very tired and I need to sleep.

- Of course, I understand. We all need it, Kalie. - Bertie smiled sweetly at her, helping her to cover herself with a blanket as he added with affectionate consideration. - You've done more than enough. You sleep now and then you can relieve us later. Take a good rest and don't worry about anymore.

The exhausted girl smiled comforted by her sister's words and promptly fell asleep. Meanwhile, Cooan was talking to her boyfriend, both watching over the children's peaceful rest.

- You know, Tom, I never thought I would risk my life to defend other people's. It's such a beautiful thing to be able to help others!

- It is, it's the same for me. Besides, I love kids. I love them so much that when all this is over, you and I can start a family. What do you think of the idea? - he asked her with determination and a smile full of affection. –

         The truth is that the boy seemed to be free of the shyness he had felt when he had tried to bring up this subject before. He had always been a little shy about things. Especially with Connie. He had liked the girl from the first moment and had gone to a lot of trouble to finally win her love. And the truth was that, after what had happened and what they were going through, to be ashamed of it no longer made any sense. On the contrary, he didn't know if this might be the last moment they had to talk about it. That's why he insisted after giving her a loving kiss on the lips.

- I want us to spend the rest of our lives together. And I hope it will be many years. And that we have a few children. - He smiled faintly. -

- There's nothing I could wish for more. - Cooan smiled too, clinging to the boy's arm and whispering now with some regret tarnishing that joy. - When I look at my sisters I feel that I am very lucky. Bertie and Petz have lost the men they loved and Kalie, well, hers is perhaps even sadder.

- I am sure they will all be able to rebuild their lives when we achieve victory. - She was encouraged by Tom, who also felt very sorry for them and wished for them from the bottom of his heart. - They certainly deserve it.

- Yes," - his girlfriend nodded, her spirits improving again. - I hope so too. Too many good people have sacrificed themselves to give us the chance to get it. Their deaths cannot have been in vain.

-Never. - Her interlocutor asserted. - As long as we have any strength left, we will fight for their memory as well.

Their memories flew back to Roy, and Cooan's even further. She couldn't help but think of his former comrades in Nemesis, who, though misguided and corrupted, were once people of desire, emotion and goodness. And of course of her parents. If she really did manage to live happily and peacefully at last, she would never forget them in her prayers that at least they would find peace in the next world or wherever they might be. She would pray for everyone, including Rubeus. Perhaps for him more than anyone else. But now she was with the man she loved and who truly loved her back. She just wanted to hold him and put everything else aside. And so they were united in a long and affectionate embrace. They were mutually infused with love and morale. In the meantime, Beruche was talking to Petz on another side of the church.

- I so much want to see the end of this fight, I hope we win! - She sighed, looking up at the vaults decorated with divine images, imploring them with all her heart. -

- We will succeed," – Her sister promised, assuring her unequivocally with her most genuine strength of spirit. - You can be sure of that!

- I wish Roy could be here! - Bertie mused, now darkened with the sadness of remembrance. -

- He would be so proud of you. And of all of us, he didn't die for nothing. He managed to give us the time we needed to defend ourselves. And we're going to make the most of it! - Petz answered her with total categoricity. -

- You know what? - Beruche confidently opened up to her sister. - The other day I dreamt about him, at the foot of my bed, he was smiling and I came to believe that he was really with me. Then I saw someone, a figure of light, maybe it was his soul or an angel accompanying him to keep him out of trouble there. - She conjectured with a smile that was somewhere between amused and nostalgic. - I miss him so much, and I still need him, Petz!  - She finished in a melancholy tone. -

- I understand you very well. - Her sister nodded with the same emotion at the memory. - I often dream of Sapphire too, of the last look I saw in her eyes. It was a deep look that reflected his feelings for me, it had peace, tenderness and a lot of love. I always longed for him to look at me that way and when he finally did it filled my heart for a lifetime.

- That look. You'd like to see it again, wouldn't you? - Beruche asked in solidarity. -

- I always see it. - Her sister smiled at her, declaring in a quiet voice. - I keep him inside me. My soul has that image engraved on it and he lives in my heart. Every time I close my eyes he's there. No matter what happens, they can never take that away from me. Just like no one can ever take Roy's memories away from you.

- Yes, I guess we have to learn to live with our memories, don't we? - Beruche asked her, affected by the nostalgia in her eyes, which were watering despite her efforts. -

- That's right, little one," - Petz replied softly, hugging her sister, and putting a motherly arm around her neck. - We will have to live comforted by them and fight for the memory of those we loved and who also loved us, we must never give up, we owe it to them.

          Bertie nodded slowly and let herself be embraced, and remained so for a few long moments, full of memories and illusions filed deep in her heart. Inwardly, though, she wondered, could that be enough for a lifetime like her sister's?

-I don't know. - She pondered. - I will try to live as I promised him. Though I have no right to think of myself now. There is a task to fulfil as a Justiciera. To protect the weak and the innocent, and I swear I will do it to my last breath.

In the battle on the moor, the fighters were evenly matched, both watching each other closely. The tension was at such a point that a single slip by either would decide the fight. Then Aspiez managed to lasso his opponent's right foot with his net. He tried to thrust his trident into him as he was knocked down, but Nephrite interposed his sword. The demon pushed to thrust his weapon into his opponent's neck as he grinned sadistically. But his opponent was holding on tight.

- Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! - Aspiez laughed loudly, full of glee at his enemy's predicament and mockingly spat at him. - You're going to die!

- I don't think so! - His adversary rebutted, increasing his energy considerably to his rival's astonishment. - What do you think of this? - he spat at him, managing to push him back with a thrust. -

Aspiez stepped back, but his opponent sprang up and somersaulted into the air. The demon charged at him with his trident, but the boy thrust the blade of his weapon through the spikes and spun off balance, knocking his foe off balance. With great alacrity he released the blade and delivered a thrust at his foe who bellowed in pain. The demon then hurled the trident into his stomach, but Nephrite took the opportunity to decapitate him. Aspiez exploded, though the boy was badly wounded, bleeding out quickly, but he was able to crawl away with his friends and leave the battlefield. Once outside, Diamond and Sapphire rushed to pick him up. Ail grabbed a bean and stuffed it into his companion's mouth.

- Damn it! - Nephrite, who was slurring his speech because of his severe wound, stammered. - Once again I've let myself be hunted like a beginner.

- Chew the bean, swallow it and you'll recover, my friend. - Ail advised him encouragingly. - Master Piccolo did worse things to us.

The boy listened and ate, his life was at stake and he was not prepared to lose it again. This time, though, he would not be in danger. As soon as he swallowed the bean his wounds closed, but he was still weak and sat down on a nearby rock to fully recover.

- Don't worry, you'll be fine. - Diamond assured him nonchalantly, patting him on the back. - There's nothing wrong with you that won't heal with a good rest.

- Congratulations, you've done a great job! - Roy congratulated him. - You're a great fighter. Just like your mates.

- If only I'd had one of these before. - Nephrite smiled, holding up the beanbag with devotion. - The fight against the Zoisite´s devilsters would have been very different.

- Now you've taken a calculated risk. - Roy, who had realised this, revealed. - You were neck and neck in the fight and you had to expose yourself to take down that demon, but you knew the beans would heal you.

- Yeah, but I almost didn't tell it! - The alluded one sighed visibly relieved now. -

He thought of some of Master Piccolo's advice. Once upon a time when he was struggling to catch up with him. Of course without success. His stern mentor gave him a good punch in the abdomen that doubled him over in pain. As he tried to recover and breathe, the Namekian said in a disenchanted tone.

-If you don't put passion into the fight, you'll never get anywhere, pretty face.

And as Nephrite gave him a look somewhere between offended and annoyed, Piccolo grinned with amusement and hieratically crossed his arms.

-You lack force and conviction in your attacks. You want to take cover as well as strike. And that is sometimes impossible.

-But you always say that we must not neglect defence. - The man rebutted as soon as he could catch his breath. -

-Of course I said that. - His instructor conceded. - One should not attack madly.

- So where does that leave us? - Nephrite reproached him. - You can't say one thing and say the opposite.

-I just did. - His interlocutor grinned mischievously, adding. - Because it's the truth.

-I don't understand. - His bewildered pupil was able to say. -

-One day you will. Sometimes you have to put everything on the line and be willing to lose it, to be able to win... don't forget that. - Piccolo pointed out. -

- I won't. - The boy said as soon as he had recovered. -

And trying to take him by surprise he lunged at his mentor who, unsurprisingly, brushed him off effortlessly and sent him back to the ground. This time, however, he smiled approvingly at him and then said.

-Much better this way...little hairs. You get the idea...choose the right moment, try to make your opponent confident and don't think, act! And, above all, don't be afraid to muss your hair, ha, ha!

           So, that bothered him enough, he decided to attack with all his might, throwing kicks and punches. His mentor dodged them without any trouble at all. And in the next instant, opening his mouth, Piccolo launched a blast of energy at him that carried him forward, burning him and smashing him to the ground. Barely able to move, lying there, the boy declared indignantly.

- Bloody hell! It's not fair, I didn't know you could do that!

His master, however, looked at him with a mocking expression and replied with glee and sarcasm.

-Excuse me, Your Highness. I had forgotten that in the world of Fool land from which you hail, every fighter must give his enemy a full account of his attacks and abilities before combat begins. Surely this Zoisite and his henchmen should have sent you a telegram informing you of their plans and types of attack. Ah, they didn't, did they? Wait, that's why you're dead. - He remarked in an amused tone. -

That was too much for Nephrite, and he struggled to his feet and tried to hit his interlocutor, shouting.

- You're a bastard!

However, Piccolo had no trouble at all in knocking him to the ground once more with a resounding kick as he replied with delight.

-Of course I am. And yet, I'm the most understanding and kindest guy you'll ever meet around here.

               At that moment it was he who disconcerted his master, for he burst out laughing uncontrollably.

- What do you find so amusing? - Piccolo asked with his arms crossed and looking at him as if he were mad. -

-You'll see. - He was able to reply, gathering his strength as he lay on the ground with his legs and arms outstretched. - It's not your blows that hurt me the most, not even your insufferable superiority complex. What really annoys me is that you're right about every damn thing you say....

               Now, having gotten over the surprise of that confession, it was Piccolo's turn to laugh, declaring amused and even approvingly.

- Congratulations, Your Highness, that's the first sensible thing you've said since you got here! - He quickly reverted to his usual stern expression to finish off, though. - Even so, you still have a long way to go. Don't forget that.

          And Nephrite certainly didn't forget that. In fact, he was now smiling at the memory.

-Thank You, Piccolo-Sama. - He thought with appreciation. - Your lessons were truly vital...

          Meanwhile the others looked at him approvingly. It had been a risky move, but it had paid off. However, they could not stop to exchange congratulations as the next fight was about to begin.

- Well, I'll go next. - Diamond stepped forward without hesitation. -

- Go ahead, mate," - Nephrite cheered, now more recovered and with a better colour in his face, which had been pale until just a few minutes before. - Tough on him!

-I'll try not to look bad. - The prince smiled. - You know how I hate it when someone beats me....

- Is it going to be a bet as usual? - Roy smiled. -

- What is it this time? - his interlocutor wanted to know. - That I make the dinner?

- No way! - Nephrite laughed, adding to the gloating of the rest. - We said a bet, not a penance for us.

-Yes... that would be tougher than any of these fights! - Ail added with glee in turn. -

-We'll talk when I get back. - Diamond affirmed with a tone of complete confidence. -

-Now don't get distracted. - His brother asked him with more seriousness. - That demon seems very strong.

-Don't worry. - The alluded one smiled. - I won't...

-Good luck, my friend. - Nephrite wished him with no more jokes. -

Roy, Sapphire and Ail did the same, patting him on the back. So, Diamond, with a firm step, prepared to go into combat against the last of Nagashel's commanders...

**START**