GWA26E

**START**

**Cooan versus Saila.**

The upset girl at last walked steadily toward Tom's room and got in front of the door. She took a breath, trying to calm her face and wipe away her tears. She checked her appearance using a hand mirror and once she was sure she looked better, she plucked up her courage and knocked.

- Who is it? - the boy asked from inside. -

- It's me, Tom, open the door," - the girl's voice answered. -

He laboriously approached, turning the wheels of his chair. This was becoming more and more violent to him. The fact that Connie had even wanted to accompany him to the bathroom to help him seemed to him, if not insulting, was at least very revealing.

-She no longer sees me as a man, but as a child who is not fit to do anything for himself. - He thought, between dismay and frustration. -

At last, the boy removed the latch and stepped away from the door. She hesitated for a few moments and finally opened it, finding her companion peering through the window.

- What do you want? - He asked dispassionately without turning to look at her. -

- I came to invite you to the movies - she smiled -, there's an interesting film on today.

- Look, I don't feel like going out. I'm tired after rehab. I'd rather be alone - he replied dryly. -

- But I don't think it's good for you to be stuck here doing nothing. - The girl rebutted with concern. -

            The boy did turn now to meet her with a hard gaze to the astonished gaze of his interlocutor and responded with ill-contained brusqueness.

- Connie, if you don't mind, I'd appreciate it if you'd stay out of my life, I can take care of myself.

- But Tom, I love you. - His companion dared to mutter to him. -

- No, you pity me, and I don't want that. What I really need is for you to leave me alone, without being on top of me. - He rebutted, leaving her frozen and sentencing her even more firmly. - It would be best if we stopped seeing each other, Connie, because I don't feel the same way about you anymore.

- But I..." - she stammered with tears in her eyes, unable to believe what she was hearing. -

- Now leave me alone, please. - He asked her more softly, but with the same emphatic tone. -

               The boy turned his chair back to turn his back on her and stared out the window without another word. She stood there, pinned, and stupefied, hurt and stunned...and barely mumbled.

-I... I...

The shocked girl wanted to say something, but the words wouldn't come out, tears were streaming down her face, and she couldn't resist. Before the two of them an impassable barrier seemed to have been erected. Even Tom himself wished she would leave him alone. Could he have realized that his situation was due to her lack of decisiveness? No, as far as Cooan knew, he had no idea of her identity. But that made it even harder, now that she really loved him, he was rejecting her. That was more than she could bear again, she ran out of the room. One way or another the story she had with Rubeus was repeating itself. But his companion was also devastated, and his eyes were full of tears. He did not want to be loved out of pity, despite his feelings for Connie, or precisely because of them, he did not want the girl he was in love with to stay with him solely out of pity. In the long run, that could not last. So, he was able to recite all that he had been mentally preparing and endured with dignity until she left. Then he couldn't help crying.

-I'm sorry, Connie. - He sobbed. - I wish it didn't have to be like this!

            In the meantime, Saila had arrived at the college and took on the guise of Cooan. Following her path, she made her way to Tom's room. Her glee increased as she saw that goofy girl running out of it. She was going so fast, covering her face in sobs, that she didn't even notice her. Even though the she-devil hid her own face with a folder she was carrying as a prop.

-The idiot is not even capable of recognizing herself. - She smiled. - Poor thing!

Although along the way she bumped into a few more girls who greeted her kindly. She simply returned those "good afternoons" with a broad smile. Imitating well the tone of that individual she was impersonating. And when she was about to arrive, she saw that girl.

- What could she be doing here? - She wondered. -

It was the same girl who had helped her companion when she was there for the first time, reconnoitering the terrain. She could also be an acolyte, or she simply wanted something. Although now she would not have to recognize her. However, she waited for her to speak.

-Connie. Have you seen your sister yet?

-No, not yet. - She replied. - But I'll be right over to see her. I have some business to finish first.

- Are you going to see Tom? - April asked, adding kindly. - I wish you all the best. He's a great guy and I can understand him well.

- Do you? – Saila looked at her in disbelief, adding in a dispassionate tone. - What do you know?

April was surprised by this tone, although she thought it was natural. How could Connie imagine that she was also paralyzed from the waist down after being hit by a car? Then she was extremely lucky. A miracle perhaps. And she recovered. Although that coincided with a visit from her sister who assured her that she would do anything to help her and that she had influential friends. At that instant, something in her mind connected all that....

- My God!

- What has that one got to do with all this? - her interlocutor scoffed. -

-Nothing, forget it. -A worried April asked her, who walked away. -

She had begun to suspect something that chilled the blood in her veins. It couldn't be true! She didn't want to believe it! She would have to talk to Paige. The she-devil for her part watched her walk away and shook her head.

-That one is just plain crazy stupid. Or maybe Meriak left her like that after sleeping with her. In any case, she's not worth my interest. I'll take care of the Justiciera and her sweetheart. – She thought, resuming her way to Tom's room. -

April was really scared. She got to her room ready to change and leave as soon as possible. Melanie was there though. One more thing she had to figure out, she barely dared to look at her for a sample.

-Mel, about earlier, it's not what you think. Really.

-It's all right. - She hastened to answer that girl who certainly gave the impression of feeling violent despite her jovial tone. - You are free to love whomever you please.

-No, it's not that. It's just that I wasn't myself. I don't know how to explain it. You know, those strange things that have been happening.

- You mean someone was controlling you? - Melanie was surprised. -

-Yes, something like that. - She lied. - I, I would never have done that, like that, here... you understand me. - She was able to argue with obvious embarrassment, and even pleading. - I saw that same girl a while ago, but she didn't even know me.

-Of course. - Her companion nodded, smiling more relieved now to declare. - What a scare you had given me! For a moment I thought you were...you know.

April faked a smile, but her heart was broken. At least Mel hadn't thrown her condition in her face, but it was clear she didn't like being around someone with those inclinations at all. One good thing about that. Any hope she might have had left was gone.

-I hope Connie doesn't tell anyone. Although she was also very strange. - She thought warily now. - I'll talk to her and tell her it was all a misunderstanding. I don't know.

           For her part, the real Cooan had other matters to think about. She went into her own room crying. Beruche was trying to forget about the argument the two of them had had, trying hard to study without succeeding. Then she saw her come in like a torrent and rush into bed. She hugged her little sister without wasting a moment, suspecting that her worst fears had been confirmed and ready to follow Melanie's suggestion.

- Forgive me, you were right! - Cooan confessed to her in tears. - I've been stupid and made him suffer, he told me he doesn't want to see me, but then what will I do, I don't pity him, I love him, how can I prove it to him, how can I prove it to all of you? - She wailed in despair. -

Her interlocutor felt very bad for her, but not only because of the situation the poor girl was in. Bertie had misjudged her, and her sister evidently felt something very seriously for Tom, and it could not be summed up merely in pity or guilt. When she had really fallen in love with him bad luck had wanted to put them in this situation. But unfortunately, the boy would never believe it. If even Beruche herself had never believed her sister who had already had her heart broken on too many occasions.

- Just do as he asked. - Bertie whispered to her trying to comfort her in the sweetest way she could. - Don't be harassing him, you must clear it with him, but be patient, give him time. Don't get discouraged. You'll see, you'll get him to believe you like I do now.

- Yes, you're right, I must go back to talk about it, we can't end up like this. I know this time it's different from the others. I'll talk to him more calmly. Thank you, Bertie.

- Good luck and when you have cleared it all up Roy and I will wait for you in the library.  We'll get through this together. - She encouraged her by wiping away her tears and added as Cooan was about to leave. - I know everything will work out. -

-Thank you. - She smiled and added. - I'm sorry for the horrible things I said to you...

-They were true. That's why I now value love and its strength so much. - Bertie declared. - And that's why I believe you both really love each other and will get through this.

Her sister nodded hopefully as she left the room, and Beruche stood there wishing her good fortune.

-Have faith in yourself and have faith in him. You both deserve to be happy. - Bertie mused as he watched her go. -

             Although she could not linger long, she did indeed remember that she had arranged to meet Roy in the library. After the incident with her sister Bertie called him. After calming down a bit, she told him what had happened, and the boy proposed that plan. In fact, it was a date for the four of them. Hopefully those two could meet with them once everything was cleared up. In turn, her little sister wiped away her tears and smiled. She ran to Tom's room, wishing she could make things right. She was not willing to leave him like that, and she was convinced that the boy would come to realize that, in truth, and beyond all other feelings, she really loved him. A moment later, the boy heard another knock at the door.

- Who is it? - He wanted to know, annoyed by a new intrusion. -

- It's me, honey - He heard Cooan's sweetened voice. - Open the door, I have something to tell you.

- I already told you to leave! - The questioned told her with bad manners. -

However, the door opened, and the girl came in, looking very cheerful. Tom was surprised and didn't like the expression on her face either.

- I don't understand - he reproached her with an incredulous gesture. - Didn't I tell you clearly before to leave me alone? What are you playing at?

- You mustn't get angry - Cooan smiled - I only came to cheer you up a little. If I said or did anything to upset you, I apologize. I'm sorry, but now I'll make it up to you. - She affirmed getting down on his knees and caressing the boy's legs. Although, to his astonishment, she moved her hands up to other less decorous places. -

- But what are you doing? - The boy asked her surprised and very puzzled. Connie had never behaved that way before. - You don't usually act like that. What's wrong with you? - He insisted, trying to get out of it, which far from pleasing him was very violent. - I beg you, please, don't go on with this.

- Tom, there are many things you don't know about me - she smiled mischievously and sentenced - and it's about time you found out.

- I know about your old life," - he said, unable to hide his astonishment. - What else do I need to know?

- Wouldn't you like to see me as I was before," - she proposed, straddling his knees. -Look. - She stood up and a scarlet glow enveloped her. -

                 Tom covered his eyes, dumbfounded. When he looked again, he discovered the girl dressed very strangely, in a purple suit with darker stripes and a matching skirt, resembling a tutu. On her forehead she wore a kind of violet-colored jewel set with a black crescent moon engraved on it, with the tips pointing downwards. The boy was at a loss for words.

-But... What does this mean? - He was finally able to say without being able to stop gawking at her. -

- That's what I looked like in my true appearance. What do you think? Don't you find me more attractive? - The girl asked him in a honeyed whisper. -

- You don't act like that," - Tom answered, who, despite his surprise, felt something strange about her. - Really, are you all, right? Listen, I didn't mean to be rude to you before, if that's the reason... forgive me...

          But his companion did not allow him to continue, covering his mouth with a hand while she was smiling a wicked smile.

- I feel better than ever. And I feel liberated.  - She kissed him on the lips that he could not prevent. - And now you're going to find out how much...

         The boy didn't know what to think anymore. Was this the good and sweet girl he had fallen in love with? It couldn't be. Could it be his fault? He had said terrible things to her just to push her away. Maybe he had upset her. He hoped not. And that strange look that left him unable to react.

- Who are you? - he mused. -

           But he got no answer. Just then there was a knock at the door, and he shuddered as he heard Connie's voice tinged with concern.

- Please, Tom, open, we need to talk. - She knocked on the door again, adding. - I'm so sorry, I shouldn't have rushed you so much. We need time...I know that now. That's all I ask of you...

          He stared at the woman in front of him, she looked just like Connie, she had the same voice, but something in her eyes told him it wasn't her, that the real one was out there.

- Who are you? - Tom asked again, between fear and amazement. -

Seeing herself uncovered, the fake Cooan gave him a mocking look and snickered.

- It's a pity, human, but you're going to die without knowing it. - She laughed, stretching out her nails as if they were long blades. – Die, you bastard! - She shrieked, trying to stab her victim. -

              Fortunately, Tom was quick, he grabbed his attacker's wrists as best he could and called for help.

- Help, Connie, please help me! - he shouted desperately as he struggled to keep the woman from digging her nails into his chest. -

The surprised girl heard the screams from inside and tried to open the door, but it was locked. There was no time to look around and with a kick she jumped that weak bolt opening the door and finding herself face to face with her doppelganger. She was perplexed. Tom had a long scratch on his chest from which blood was flowing, but otherwise he was safe. The she-devil turned away from him and faced Cooan herself.

- Who are you? - The real one asked, between astonished and enraged - Why are you pretending to be me and how did you dress like that?

- What's wrong with you Kermesite Ayakashi of the Black Moon clan? - her evil doppelganger smiled. - Are you afraid to face your evil half? - She sarcastically asked her and as she spoke, she regained her demonic uniform and her face changed to that of the she-devil Saila, with coppery brown hair and red eyes, sentencing with sadistic pleasure. - Now I will kill you both together. You Justiciera, or, rather, traitor, your time has come!

- What did she say? - Intervened the surprised boy. - That you!

- Yes, Tom. – Cooan admitted serenely adding with determination and fury - and this time I will not let you suffer more because of me. Pure heart of fire, give me the power! Make up! - She invoked and transformed. To the astonishment of her companion, after a remarkable light show, she reappeared in her Justiciera attire and spat at the she-devil. - Now I'm going to destroy you, you wretched monster!

- You, poor fool! - Saila mocked her, launching a bolt of lightning at her adversary that propelled her into the room. - First, I'll kill you, and then I'll kill your little love. - She turned to Tom baring her fangs and added towards her enemy in a mock mawkish voice. - But if you tell me where the stone is, nothing will happen to him.

- What stone? - The dumbfounded boy wanted to know, not understanding at all what that meant. -

- The only thing I'll give you is a stone in the middle of your damn head! - The furious Cooan said. -

The Justiciera had stood up as she replied, preparing her counterattack, but the she-devil was quicker, turning around and howling as she launched a fireball at her rival...

- Then die!...

Fortunately, the girl was able to dodge it and counterattack with her lightning bolts, hers collided with another of the she-devil's and for a few long moments they held each other. But the succubus' ray was more powerful and ended up repulsing the one of the Justiciera, who was thrown again against the wall, being badly wounded by the discharge and the impact.

- Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! - Saila laughed and, she slowly approaching her enemy who was barely trying to stand up. Rejoicing at the precarious situation of her imminent victim, the she-devil spat. - Say goodbye to life! - She was about to finish her off when something pulled hard on one of her legs and made her fall. - What? What's wrong?

It was Tom who had gathered his strength to help Cooan. He had laboriously approached her while her adversary was engrossed in her and used all his strength to knock her off balance.

-I won't let you. You won't do her any harm. - Tom was able to say.

           But the furious she-devil soon rose to her feet and struck him off his chair.

- I'll kill you right now for daring to interrupt me, you damned imp!

- No, you won't! Because you're going to die first! – The Justiciera who had recovered enough to materialize her fire bow, exclaimed. - Flaming arrow attack!

          From this she shot an arrow that pierced the succubus' neck making it explode between horrible screams. Cooan threw herself towards the boy to protect him from the explosion and when it passed, she collapsed exhausted. He crawled as best he could to her and hugged her.

-Connie, are you all, right?  Please answer me! - he asked, visibly worried. -

            The girl took a few agonizing seconds to open her eyes. He sighed in relief hugging her tighter, finally she reciprocated by clutching him in her arms as well.

- Thank God! - he was able to say with obvious emotion and relief. - I thought that explosion would have....

She did not let him continue, covering his lips with a kiss. Finally, as they parted, the girl was able to respond, also affected by her feelings of relief, guilt and even her love for him.

- I will never let them hurt you again, I would die for you! And this time it would not be a useless sacrifice.

- Don't... don't say that don't ever say that! - He asked her shocked. -

          The girl looked at him now with tears in her eyes and could only add.

- Oh, Tom, forgive me, you were about to die like the other time and again because of me. I will never put you in danger again!

- No, I'm alive thanks to you - he answered her trying to comfort her and then he intuitively let the girl know it. - Like the other time, right? It was you who killed that demon to save me.

- If I hadn't been afraid to reveal my identity this wouldn't have happened, you are like this because of me. I can understand that you hate me. - The tormented girl wailed, bursting into tears. - And that you don't want to see me anymore!

He, perplexed, was slow to react. There were too many things. That poor girl had imagined all that! She must have gone through a tremendous hell of guilt and uneasiness. And the look in her eyes didn't lie. That wasn't just sympathy...

- No, Connie," - he answered at last, his voice gentle, caressing her cheek as he removed her mask. - I could never hate you. That would have happened anyway. It was I who was bent on fighting an enemy who outstripped me in strength. But for you I would face an entire legion of demons. I would do it again, whether I knew what was going to happen to me or not.

- You saved my life Tom, I have loved you since before this happened, please, believe me! - The excited Cooan pleaded. -

- I know now, and I'm sorry I doubted you. And, of me. - He acknowledged and they hugged each other more tightly. - But you must tell me so many things. I could help you. - The boy offered. -

- No Tommy - she denied uneasily, adding. - I don't want you to be in danger again because of me. I will never let anything like that happen to you again. Now I know I would give my life for you, and this time it wouldn't be a mistake..." She sighed repeating that. -

- What do you mean? - The boy asked her with a surprised gesture. -

           Cooan sighed, as if she had the courage to say something that would be very difficult for her...

- You see Tom. You know what I was like in my old life, but you don't know why everything changed.

- Yes, you told us. - He said, thinking he was in the loop. - When the Sailors helped you.

- I would like to tell you everything. - She declared that, after placing the wheelchair and helping him to sit up, she knelt next to him and told him before his attentive gaze. - When I was part of the Black Moon clan, I was in love with my boss Rubeus. I believed he shared my feelings. He never told me otherwise. He was always very gallant and charming with me. And that led me to believe that he loved me too. I was just a stupid and naive child; I know that now. But then, thinking about that and that the success of our mission would make him happy, I promised to kill Chibiusa, the daughter of the Future Sailor Moon, myself. The poor girl had fled to the past to seek help! We came to stop her and destroy the defenses of the future Crystal Tokyo.

- Yes, I know that. - Tom insisted, nodding. -

          Although Cooan shook her head to deny that assumption and then revealed with a dismayed gesture.

-What you don't know is that, when I confronted Rei, I was about to finish her, her friend Yuuichirou and the girl. Luckily Tuxedo Kamen prevented it. He distracted me enough for Sailor Mars to attack me, leaving me badly wounded. Then Rubeus appeared.

-And he helped you fight - he guessed. -

          But, to his surprise, she denied him again, letting tears stream down her face.

-I thought so when I saw him appear. But he just looked at me with disdain and said that I had failed him and that he would never see me again. I pleaded with him, asked him to fight by my side. That I was willing to sacrifice my life in battle. When he refused, I said I could not believe that after having loved each other for so many years....

              Here the girl could not continue, she sobbed as Tom leaned over to embrace her and told her in a kind and empathetic tone.

-Calm down, Connie. You don't need to go on... Don't hurt yourself anymore, that's all in the past.

Then she shook her head and continued.

-No, I must get it over with. I still hold it inside me, and I want you to know it, Tom. I need you to understand how I feel about you...

             The boy nodded, looking at him with both concern and sympathy. And she remarked regretfully.

-He told me that he had never loved me for a single moment during his whole life. He made a bomb appear and gave it to me. Then I realized, he wanted me to die to finish off the warriors and the girl. He broke my heart! And not for wanting me to sacrifice myself. Had he loved me and been willing to share my fate, I would have done so without hesitation. I would have given my life to fulfill my mission and above all for his love. What really sank me is that I meant nothing to him, nothing, I was just a tool.

- Miserable bastard! - the boy said, between indignant, furious, and full of compassion for his interlocutor to ask - How can he be capable of doing something so cruel?

Cooan looked at him gratefully. It was clear, Tom was the total reverse of that selfish man who had driven her to such an extreme of despair. Thus, she was able to add...

-Thanks to Rei, and the others, who took that bomb from me and threw it away before it exploded, I was saved. But I was devastated. I had lost everything, my love, my home, my future. I thought I had nothing left to lose. I went crazy and attacked the girls. I blamed them for my misfortune and only wished that one of them would kill me to stop suffering. But then, Rei... she got in the way of a kick Makoto was going to give me. She took it instead of me! She stayed on top of me protecting me and with a very sweet and compassionate voice she told me that I hadn't lost everything yet. And when I calmed down, I heard her, and I saw her leg. The same one I had burned during the fight. When she got between one of my attacks and Yuuichirou. But Rei smiled at me and added that I had myself and could make amends for all the wrong I had done. Then I cried, Tom! I cried in regret and wanting to believe her words were true. I wanted another chance and maybe, someday, to find a man who would truly love me and whom I could love with all my heart. Someone who really cared about me because of who I was and not just because I was useful to him. That was when Sailor Moon purified me with the power of her Silver Crystal. At that very moment my life began again. And then I came here and met you....

              Her companion watched her in astonishment and emotion. He could not reply to those words, but only embraced her and after a few seconds responded.

- Oh, Connie, I am so sorry. Forgive me, I couldn't imagine that you had gone through something like this.

- I don't want to lose you! Please, not you! I love you and I couldn't bear it again. - She sobbed. -

- You won't lose me. You will never lose me. - He was able to say with tears too. - I do swear.

           Cooan hugged him tightly, she didn't seem to want to let him go, perhaps fearing that she would really lose him if he did. Then she heard him sing, she had regained that beautiful voice he had, and she was singing him that song from the concert they attended, the one they had both heard before.

"You'll be with me, and you'll be my love...

Among the barley fields" ...

             And the girl cried again, but this time out of happiness. After a few minutes like that, hugging each other, she at last got up and the boy said to her in a loving, soft voice.

-I will never leave you Cooan Malinde, my Connie! But you must promise me something. - And before the attentive gaze of the now smiling girl, he asked her. - You will not take useless risks and will always be very careful....

             She nodded, stroked his chin, and whispered affectionately.

-I promise you, I won't do it, but you must also promise me that you will keep my secret, I beg you, I am not alone in this.

He just nodded his head; it was easy to guess who the others with Connie would be. And the boy's agreement was enough for the young woman to smile, giving him a long kiss on the lips. Then both (she already with her normal identity) went to the infirmary. Fortunately, the wounds were not as serious as they might seem at first glance. Although, when asked by the surprised nurse, they confessed to having suffered an accident without wanting to go into more details. Fortunately, the woman who attended them was not too curious and the minor severity of the injuries helped to settle the matter. Once healed and bandaged, they ate something to regain strength and went to the door of the library. There Roy and Beruche were waiting for them.

- You are late. - Roy said in surprise, pointing to his watch as he watched them appear. - Why did you take so long, and what happened to you? - He asked astonished, observing the wounds and bandages that both showed. -

- An accident," - Cooan told them without giving it any importance. - "Nothing happened.

- Yes, I can imagine. I suppose it must have been a rather annoying accident. – Her friend said, who didn't believe this version at all, asking with mockery. - Did that accident have horns and a tail?

                The interpellated nodded acknowledging it with a slight smile and Beruche returned it in an accomplice way, looking at Roy. The latter seemed to understand it well since he did not insist on the matter. After all, the same thing had happened to them.

- Sorry for the delay. It was something that couldn't wait. We had a lot to talk about.

-That's true. There were some misunderstandings. - Cooan said. -But we've cleared them up.

-Yes, I'm going to do my best to get better with my rehabilitation and continue studying. - The dark-haired boy added. -

-That's right, my friend. - Roy nodded with a big smile and a wink. - That's my Kansas City Pal!

Bertie smiled in return, glad to see that both her sister and Tom had managed to dispel those storm clouds. Melanie was right. That's when she remembered...

-By the way, sis. I ran into your head cheerleader....

- You did…didn´t you? - she exclaimed, holding a hand to her forehead as she declared. - We had rehearsal! -

-So, don't worry. - Bertie calmed her down. - She told me you were excused.

-I'm glad because I wasn't going anyway. - The girl said with a smile and then added. - I have better plans.

Then she remembered April. That girl had tried to warn her! It was clear that she knew something. For a few moments she was about to tell her friends at last. However, Tom stepped forward, smilingly affirming.

-And so am I. And I'm so sorry, guys, Connie and I aren't studying today.

- What about that? - Roy was surprised, adding amused. - You really surprise me; you guys are so lazy lately.

- It's just that we are going to the movies - his friend explained. - She's going to invite me to see a very interesting movie.

- That's very nice," - Bertie said with approval and visible joy. - Have fun!

- Thank you," - Her sister smiled. - "Shall we go," - she asked Tom warmly, who nodded with obvious enthusiasm. --

-We'll see you, boys. - He said, letting Cooan push him back in his chair. -

- Hey, little ice cube! - Roy asked her as his friends walked away, "Why don't we go with them?

- Not at all. - She shook her finger and affirmed amused. -You must study hard because you're way behind.

- This is not fair - he protested. - They leave and you tell them "have fun", - he imitated Beruche with so much grace and light mockery that he even made her laugh and added with a tone of pretended compunction. - I ask you and you tell me that I must study.

- Come on, lazybones, let´s study! - Bertie reaffirmed, grabbing Roy by the ear, and dragging him towards the library, explaining more seriously now. - Besides, Tom and Cooan need to be alone.

- Okay, okay - the boy admitted gently letting go and replying more seriously as well. - You're right. They need a little time to sort out their feelings, but I wanted to hide it a bit in front of them. The truth is... - he sentenced now more reflexively - Tommy's look has changed. And so has your sister's. They have regained their joy. They look happy together. And I'm happy for them, they needed to get all their worries out.

- And if you've realized that, why do you always have to act like a clown? - Bertie laughed with mock reprobation to affirm now with a more affectionate look. - You've always a silly thing to say, but you're a great kid at heart! And you're right. I'm very happy for them too. Well! - She sighed now with apparent resignation, declaring nonchalantly. - "I think we can skip the studies and have a drink this time.

- Hey, that was a joke, little cube - he smiled solicitously, proposing to her. - We can study if you really want to.

But now it was Beruche who took him by the arm, encouraging him with an amused tone.

- Come on, before I regret it.

He let himself go and without his companion seeing him, he made the V shape with his fingers. On the other hand, Tom and Cooan had a great time that night. The boy solemnly promised her to try to rehabilitate himself and she assured him that she would not leave him alone. At last true love had arisen between them. And this time they would not mistake it for any other kind of feelings or emotions. Roy and Bertie were not wrong. His friend now felt happier and stronger to face the challenge ahead, with Connie by his side he looked forward to getting better. She in turn promised to fight for him and for all those who were in trouble because of the cultists. And then she remarked to the boy somewhat more seriously.

-April came to warn me. He told me that he had seen that woman and that she was a demon.

His interlocutor stared at her with astonishment, it took him a few seconds to reply.

-We should talk to her. Maybe she knows more.

-Yes, as soon as possible I will ask her to meet with us. But she doesn't know my identity as a Justiciera. Although she might suspect something. She looked at my pendant a lot. With the stone that gives me the power to transform, you know? - she told him then. - We saved her a few days ago from some demons, I was by her side, and she must have noticed.

-So, do you think she knows or just suspects? - Tom asked worried in turn. -

-I don't think she's too sure, and I think it's best to keep it that way. She's a partner and a friend. I don't want her in the middle of all this.

-I do agree. On the other hand, I also think the more allies we have, the better. - He agreed. - If she told you clearly maybe you could admit it. The more of us there are, the better chance we have of beating them. I'm not saying she must intervene directly but maybe she can give you more information. As much as she knew about those devils, she might know other things.

-Yes, maybe. Well, in any case, we must stick together. That way we'll make it. - She smiled at him after leaving the cinema as they leisurely returned to the university. -

-And I'll try very hard to deserve your love. - He told her. -

-You're a wonderful boy. - She replied, affirming in turn. - I am the one who must deserve you.

-However, I had a hard time getting you to notice me. - The boy commented now with an amused smile that nevertheless hid a slight reproachful accent. -

-It was because of my disappointment with Rubeus. That made me be very cautious, I was afraid of being wrong again. - The girl confessed, lowering her gaze a little again, not wanting to remind him of the boy who had first noticed Roy. - That hurt me a lot.

-Every time I think about what you've told me. And how he treated you. What an idiot! Not knowing how to appreciate what he had. - Tom declared, sentencing. - How could anyone not love you?

                The girl smiled gratefully at him. She bent down to give him a long kiss and as soon as he was delighted, he was able to confess to her in turn.

-I, too, had a heartbreak. Last summer. I had been in love with a girl for years, but for her I was just a friend, nothing more.

- What a fool! - Cooan was able to answer in turn. And visibly curious she wanted to know. - What did she look like?

-Well, she looked a lot like a girl I know. Brunette, with curly hair and very dark, blue eyes, but not as beautiful as the violet ones of the woman I love. - He declared, adding in a reflective tone. - You know, perhaps it was meant to be. That you and I were meant to meet. And now I thank God for it.

-And so do I. - The girl smiled. -

- And you know something else? - Tom confided. - My parents like you very much. They can't stop praising you. As soon as we have a few days of vacation they would like to invite you home.

- Me! - The young woman was surprised, holding a hand to her chest. - I don't know if I...

-I really do know. They love you. My mother, especially. She asked me to tell you. - The boy explained now with more enthusiasm to refer to the astonished Cooan. - She said, "Son, tell Constance that it would be a pleasure for us if she could spend a few days here. - And looking at her with patent affection the boy added. - And remember I promised to show you the fields of gold...as our song says. All the fields with those crops that stretch as far as the eye can see. It's beautiful scenery.

-Yes, I wish to see them at your side. - She said excitedly. -

           His companion embraced him warmly and they kissed again. At the end and after several hours of conversation, plans and wishes for the future, she accompanied him to the door of his room and there they said goodbye until the next day. Meanwhile at the headquarters of the sect, an enraged Great Wiseman called out to another of the she-devils.

- Iama! - he shouted in an imperious voice. - Appear before me, quickly!

           The succubus appeared instantly before her superior and saluted him with a submissive bow of her head.

- At your command, sir. What do you wish me to do?

- Your companions have failed and have been annihilated by the Justicieras, you must not repeat their mistakes. Go, finish them off and recover the Yalmutud stone that we lack to complete the invocation pentacle.

- As you command, sir. I have already fixed my target. - In the Great Wiseman's ball, the Lady of Thunder appeared, while the succubus explained to her boss. - I am sure that the Yalmutud sphere is in her possession. Before killing her, I will make that human talk to tell me where she is hiding it, it will be easy.

- That is what your companions said before they were destroyed. Do not underestimate the power of the Justicieras or you may suffer the same fate as them. - The Wiseman rebutted her with distrust. -

- Don't worry, sir. This time it will be different. I only must find out where they live. - She assured him, disappearing after nodding to him. -

            And she guessed that maybe that girl from the university would know that. It didn't take her long to go looking for her.

-Being an acolyte she will tell me what I want to know. - The she-devil said to herself with optimistic tones.

          Meanwhile, Petz and Karaberasu were in their apartment and chatting about their other sisters. Cooan had phoned to tell them what had happened. Tom had in turn promised not to reveal their identities to Roy. Her sister had also warned them that the she-devils might come after them.

-They have finally cleared everything up between them. - Karaberasu said with relief. - One less thing to worry about.

-At least on that front, things seem to be settling down. But this other thing is more serious. We should hide this stone well. - Petz mused aloud, pointing to the sofa, under which the Yalmutud sphere was hidden. - "It could easily be stolen here.

- Yes, that would be best," agreed her companion agreed to ask her. - "but where?

- We can bury it somewhere on the outskirts of the city. - Her older sister proposed. -

- They would detect her without any problem, - her interlocutor refuted - no, we can't do that.

- Well, I don't know what else we can think of. - Petz replied in bewilderment. -

- Leave that to me," - her sister smiled. - I have an idea.

- You must be careful; they might be watching us....

- You don't have to worry about that. Look, here's what we'll do - Karaberasu whispered her plan in Petz's ear. -

            Petz smiled too, as an idea it was not a bad one, although it had its risks and so she expressed it with some concern to her younger sister.

- I'm fine with it, but be very careful, okay? And let me know if you are in danger.

- Don't worry, I will. - She assured the girl who took a sheet, and something wrapped under it in a round shape. So, she went out into the street. - See you later and don't come back unless I call you....

Kalie was walking with her wrapped package, she was going to a little crowded area, practically deserted...

- Good, good - Iama said to herself, hiding in a small roof of the area when she saw Karaberasu leaving the house. - Come to me, you little fool. You will soon fall into my trap.

And so, she had time to appear in that college and look for her target. When that girl saw her, her heart must have skipped a beat.

-Hello, you're April, right? - Iama smiled at her, adopting her human appearance. -

-Hello." - April mumbled in a shocked state. -

-I need you to give me some information. - She asked her. -

-Your friend was already here, and I told her everything I knew. - The young woman responded. -

Her interlocutor approached looking at her with intensity, so much so that the human looked away. Taking advantage of the fact that they were alone in a long, barely crowded corridor, Iama pushed her against a wall and whispered to her.

-You're not unaware of what I really am, are you?

The terrified girl shook her head, and her interlocutor continued in a honeyed voice.

-I don't have Meriak's tastes. Don't flatter yourself. I can be nice to you, though, or ask you in another way. And you wouldn't like that other way at all.

- What do you want to know? – That girl asked her without daring to look at her. -

-Very easy. The address of these Justicieras.

- Address? If you mean my companions, they live here. - April replied. -

-No, I'm not talking about them now, but about their sisters. - The she-devil clarified. -

-Her sisters live in Japan. - The girl mumbled. –

April felt a sharp pain in one arm then, and when she looked at herself, she realized with horror that blood was gushing out of it. She had to squeeze it with one hand while her interlocutor hissed at the same time showing her long fingernails stained with April's own blood.

-Don't try to play me for a fool. Their sisters are here. Speak up!

Now the young woman sobbed in terror, shaking her head and barely able to moan.

-I don't know where these women live. I only know two. Please, it's the truth!

Iama smiled wickedly, clutching the idiot's neck with her other hand. April could not stop sobbing in anguish, although the she-devil then, moderating her tone, commented.

-Well, suppose I believe you. In that case, you'll find out. Or else, that little cut I gave you will only be a foretaste of what awaits you. Do you understand? When you have what I want to know, take the pentacle you possess and hang it around your neck.

The terrified young woman nodded almost imperceptibly. Iama released her and walked away. April was able to sigh and take a long breath. Again, she looked down at her arm, barely able to contain the bleeding. It didn't take her long to go to the infirmary.

- What happened to you? - The nurse who was there at that time asked her. -

-I cut myself on a plank. - She answered. -

-I'll have to give you a tetanus shot. - She told April. -

The girl nodded, even though it hurt, it was better not to risk it, who knows what kind of things that she-devil could transmit to her. Finally, after receiving the injection and having the wound disinfected, she was cured and bandaged. She said goodbye to the nurse, thanking her for her care, and ran.

- I must find Connie or her sister! - She said to herself in desperation. - And I must talk to Paige.

So, she headed for the room of those two Japanese women. To her surprise and luck, the door was open. As she entered, she saw some broken furniture and glass debris.

-I don't know what happened, but this is my lucky day. - She thought relieved. -

It didn't take her long to rummage through some of the drawers of the girls' bedside tables. And in one of them she found a small notebook. There she found the names of two women she didn't know. Although one of them rang a bell.

-I think Connie talked about them once. - She wanted to remember. -

Grabbing a pen and paper, she copied down as much as he could, including some city signs. That must be it! It didn't take her long to run off in a hurry to find that she-devil.

-I hope this is what she wants.

Within moments, Roy and Bertie peeked around the corner of the hallway leading to her room. The boy muttered.

-You were right, cubby, when you suspected of her. That girl is behaving very strangely. What would she have to do in your room?

-I don't know. - Bertie admitted. - I hope we can find out, though. As soon as Cooan gets back I'll tell her.

           Beruche had noticed April's strange behavior. Her sister didn't seem to have noticed, but it was Melanie who brought it to her attention. The head cheerleader had met her an hour ago.

-Hello,"- Bertie greeted her. -

-Hello," - her companion responded, commenting in an uneasy tone. - Have you seen April? I'm quite worried about her. She's acting very strangely.

-No, I haven't seen her. Maybe my sister has been with her. - Beruche conjectured. -

It was Mel herself who, in a dismayed tone, showed her that pendant with that inverted five-pointed star and commented.

-I found this in her room. I don't know what it's about, but I don't like it at all.

Beruche didn't want to say anything, but she knew what it was. And it was no coincidence that the she-devil had tried to kill her and told her that she had an informant.

-I'll tell Roy and Tom as soon as I see them. - She promised her. -

        And after saying goodbye to Mel, her mind came up with a quick plan. That she-devil was looking for something, maybe when she didn't find it and knew of its destruction, someone from that cult would return to her room to continue searching it. So, she decided to make it easy for her. Once she found Roy, Bertie explained her plan. At first the boy was skeptical, although without thinking about April he agreed that if someone entered the room it could be that person the informant to whom that succubus had referred. Now, unfortunately, the facts had proven Beruche right.

- Do you want me to go get her? - Roy asked her. -

-No, let her go. Maybe it's not what we imagined. We'd better wait until the four of us can talk. - Bertie replied. -

            For her part, and after returning to her own room, thankful that this time Melanie was not there, April took the pentacle and clutched it in her hands after hanging it around her neck. Amazed, she saw how out of nowhere this being of darkness appeared. With reddish eyes and hair.

- Well? - Iama wanted to know. -

April handed her the paper with the notes. The she-devil looked at it and nodded in satisfaction.

-Very well. I expected nothing less from you.

-Please. -Could you tell me something? -. She asked her in a meditative and pleading tone. -

- What? Come on, I don't have much time. - Her interlocutor answered abruptly. -

-My sister helped me once. She made me sign a very strange paper in my own blood. What does that mean? - She wanted to know. -

-It means you made a pact. - The succubus answered her. - And that you are bound to us.

-But I didn't know that. - The young girl commented with a trembling voice. -

That made Iama thought about it, then she commented.

-In that case, that pact may not be valid, it would not directly involve you, but your sister.

-She told me that I had to obey everything I was told. - April explained. -

- That's no good! - the she-devil laughed, looking at her now with a mixture of amusement and mockery to sentence. - Poor fool! You have been collaborating without having the obligation to do so. If I were you, I'd talk to that sister of yours so, she could tell you exactly what she did, because, your soul and hers might depend on it, don´t you think so? Ha, ha, ha...

And with that said she disappeared. She was eager to find her targets. So, she went back to the cult headquarters and asked some acolyte to point her in the direction of that address. After being informed she headed that way.

-You are already mine, you Justicieras. - She said to herself with a triumphant feeling as she hid in a place close to that spot. - You will have to pass this way.

Although no one was approaching. That place did not give the impression of having these Justicieras nearby. The furious she-devil had to be transported once again to the headquarters of the sect. There she was given the necessary clarifications. She left for another place that proved to be the right one.

-Damn stupid. - She mumbled, thinking of April. - As soon as I get my hands on you, you'll see. Good thing your little sister and the Wiseman were better informed.

            At the same time Kalie saw her stone flickering brighter and brighter. She clearly sensed that some demon was nearby. Willing then to move on to the second stage of her plan she picked up her pace and entered a deserted alley, Iama followed her. Petz who had been left with the real stone, kept it inside a double-bottomed cabinet. She decided that she should listen to her sister and wait for Karaberasu to warn her through a communicator of the enemy's presence. In the meantime, she wished the plan would succeed or else and in case she had any trouble and alerted her, she would come quickly to her aid.

-Or even if it doesn't. Kalie always gets carried away with self-confidence. And this time that could kill her, I won't allow it. - The young woman said to herself. -

In the meantime, after those shocking revelations, April had once again left the university, heading to meet her sister. The thought she had had after talking to Connie kept coming back to her, confirmed repeatedly:

-It can't be true. Please! It can't be true...

And that uneasiness accompanied her all the way, until she walked the distance to her sister's apartment. When she arrived, she knocked on the door. This time, after a few moments, Paige opened it. Apparently, and fortunately, she was alone with her daughter.

-Hello," - the hostess whispered. -

- Paige, terrible things have happened! - April told her. - And they've given me pause for thought.

- What things? - She asked her interlocutor. -

-I warned some of my colleagues that they were in danger. And talking to one of them..." - She answered, ready to tell her about that conversation and the things that Iama had told her, although she rectified at the last moment to get straight to the point and remind her sister. - When you came to see me at the hospital and brought me that contract, tell me, what exactly was it for?

Paige looked at her with a frown and was barely able to stammer out....

-Well, well. It was permission from you so I could help you.

-Yeah, but how did that work? I mean, no one came to see me, nor did they operate on me for anything.

-It wasn't necessary. - Her interlocutor sighed, lowering her gaze. -

April wanted to meet her sister's eyes, although the latter shunned her, at last, the young student decided to be clear, wanting to know with a mixture of dismay and reproach.

-You made pact with those demons so that I would be cured. That's it, isn't it?  And when you signed it, you forced me to do something for them.

-No, I didn't. - Paige refuted, confirming what the she-devil had told her. - You are not obligated to anything. Despite having stamped your blood on the paper.

-So, I was cured in exchange for nothing? - her colleague asked skeptically. -

-Your blood was used to determine who would be the beneficiary of the pact. - Her interlocutor explained quietly. - It's like a kind of insurance.

-But whenever these beings make deals with someone, that person must pay a price. I don't understand. - April replied. -

-Neither do I. - Paige smiled sardonically, pleading. - There could have been a mistake and they forgot to claim responsibility. That's their problem. Now the pact can't be broken.

-But you told me I had to follow all their directions. - Her sister reminded her. -

-Yes, I told you that to protect you. - Her interlocutor argued. - They are dangerous people, there are a lot of heartless people, and they are not exactly demons. So, keep acting as if you obey all their requests. - She told her with visible concern. – You can pretend, but, above all, don't try to outwit them. They are very evil, but extremely intelligent.

She nodded in agreement. Perhaps they would be able to trick those demons or whoever they were and leave them alone, however, she doubted it. Being such powerful beings, they gave the impression of having a lot of knowledge and of seeing many things. Therefore, her companion indicated to her.

-For your sake and ours it is better that you do not get involved in any of this. Forget those she-devils and don't tell your companions anything else, please! You could draw the wrath of those beings on us.

April agreed. She had no desire to cause trouble for her sister or her little niece. Just then the baby began to cry and when her mother was about to try to calm her down, she asked.

- May I take her in my arms?

-Of course, you can. - Paige smiled. -

It didn't take her long to get the little one out of her crib and after rocking her a bit, she immediately stopped crying.

-She seems to like you. - The girl's mother affirmed. -

-And I like her too. - April answered with a slight smile as she watched the baby close her blue eyes.

After a while more of being with her in her arms, she put her back in the cradle. Finally, she commented to her sister.

-Look. I can help you raise her. Really! I have some money, the money that mom and dad gave me for the semester.

- I don't want anything from them! - Her interlocutor refused sharply, but seeing her sister's sorrowful expression, she hastened to add in a more conciliatory manner. - I appreciate it, but it's not necessary.

-Listen, Paige. - April sighed with obvious discomfort. - You don't have to live like this... please! I don't mean to offend you, or anything like that. I just care about you, well, I care about both of you now. And I'm indebted to you. For my healing. - She expounded as tactfully as he could. - And I also earn a salary at the bar where I work. With that I could lend you a hand. Even if it was little money. Please! - She insisted with a pleading gesture. -

Her companion looked at her with a sad look, barely managed to compose a half-smile and answered.

-If anything should ever happen to me, I only ask you to take care of my little girl. Will you, do it? I have some assets and money saved in an account in her name, Marla Sorel. It's the last name I adopted after I left home. - Paige explained. -

-Of course. - April assured her looking at her watch, she apologized and added. - "It's very late. - It's very late, I must go now. I must go to work. You know... I'm sorry for bothering you.

-You haven't. You've never been a bother. Until now you were the only person I've ever really loved. – Paige smiled, looking sideways at her baby. -

And the college girl walked away, leaving her alone. Paige then remembered the real pact she had made. And the visits she had recently received apart from her sister. She smiled bitterly, she mused with her eyes on her little girl.

-April, perhaps you should take care of my child sooner than you think.

And her sister, as she left, could not stop thinking.

-Don't think you're fooling me, Paige. If that works like insurance and I'm the beneficiary, you must have been the policyholder. You're the one who's going to have to pay for me! And I'm not going to let that happen. I will do everything in my power to relieve you of that burden. You must be free to take care of little Marla...

At school, Cooan and Tom returned full of optimism and hope. But what they didn't expect was that Bertie and Roy were waiting for them with visible interest and concern.

- What's going on? - Tom wanted to know. - Have you been attacked by any other demons?

-We'd better talk about this in a private place. - Roy replied cautiously, with Bertie's assent. -

So, the four of them went to the girls' room. Once inside they closed the door and Bertie told them what had happened. Cooan opened her mouth with a mixture of disbelief and horror.

- My God, I was going to tell you about April, but with everything that's happened, I finally let it go.

-Well, tell us now. - Her sister asked. -

And after telling them what happened, except for the girl's confession about her sexual orientation, and the suspicions she had about her and Bertie being the Justicieras, when Roy was there, it was him who nodded slowly and stated.

-Then April is a spy for that cult. That's why those bastards knew so many things.

-I don't know. - Cooan objected. - I noticed she was very scared. As if she was being threatened. I don't think she wants to hurt us.

-Maybe not, but the way she's acting, she's putting us in grave danger. - Tom replied. -

-We'll have to talk to her. - Bertie added. - Cooan and I will take care of it discreetly. If she's another victim, it's our duty to help her, not to attack her.

Her companions agreed, leaving the matter to them. On the other hand, and days before in Japan, the news of the terrible event that had befallen Tom had left the girls horrified. Rei paced nervously and helplessly in the sanctuary before the desolate faces of the rest, after her conversation with Cooan and the one with her companions. Now they remembered it with indignation. They had Usagi there and they had hatched a plan to see what she would tell them...

- Poor boy! - Minako sighed then with a nod from Artemis who was on her lap. -

- Damn those demons! - Makoto blurted out in a tone somewhere between frustrated and furious. -

-Judging from what Petz and Kalie have told us, it has been terrible for everyone. Apart from Tom, Cooan is suffering a lot. So are Bertie and Roy. - Minako stated regretfully as she briefly summarized what her friends wrote to her. -

-Yes, I consulted my mother about that. Unfortunately, it coincides with the diagnosis Tom got there. It is a permanent paralysis. - Ami was able to say, full of sadness. - Nothing can be done.

Rei intervened then, clenching her fists to exclaim, full of rage in her turn.

- Damn it, I can't stand this for another minute. When are we going to be able to go help them? Now that boy is defenseless against any attack.

No one answered that question. Usagi for her part lowered her head visibly dismayed. She looked at Luna the cat, who also had a regretful expression. Although Mars, after a few moments, turned to her friend and with a pleading expression said to her before the attentive and expectant looks of the rest.

-Usa-Chan -Onegay! Even if you can't do anything to heal him... we should at least go to their aid. They need our support. At least our moral support. I'm not saying we're going to fight, but just to comfort them...

The others shared the same sentiment, although none of them added anything.

- I beg you! - Rei insisted, going so far as to kneel. - Have pity at least on that boy. On our friends.

This was very embarrassing for Usagi. She could barely answer between astonished and dismayed.

-Please, Rei, don't do this to me. Get up from the floor.

-Usagi-chan, Oonegay! - Makoto said, adopting the same posture as the priestess. - Just a trip, even a short one. To make sure they're okay.

- Onegay! - Minako added imitating her friends. - If not all of us. At least let some of us go.

The questioned, with obvious shock, looked open-mouthed at all of them. Then she looked at Ami, the only one who hadn't done that. Perhaps being more cerebral than the rest, she analyzed things more objectively. However, that was short-lived. Mercury knelt in the same way to finish off with a pleading gesture.

- Onegay! Usa-chan... they are our dear friends, and they are in danger.

-Girls. Please believe me. - She could barely stammer in real emotion as she knelt as well, meeting Rei's and then the others' desolate gaze. - It's not up to me. I assure you that if it were....

          And she could not continue, at least not until she wiped away some tears. None of them dared to speak. So, after another awkward moment of silence, the questioned woman slowly stood up and looked at her companions to mutter.

-Soon. Very soon...I promise we'll go, but not yet...I'm sorry...

None of them answered, although Usagi knew perfectly well what they were thinking behind those faces in which she could read the pleading and even the reproach. Why...how long would they have to act like that? To be honest, she herself did not know the answer. It depended on those strange dreams she had. The same thing was happening to Mamoru, who at that moment was meeting with certain important people for the future events. The only thing they could do was to be patient and wait; hopefully when they could intervene it would not be too late! For the time being, her friends, the four sisters and the two boys should be able to make it on their own. And now it was Karaberasu's turn to try to make it through the ordeal ahead.

**START**