GWA34E

**START**

**The Beyond.**

They were all gathered in a park on the outskirts, in the western part of the city. They were there at the request of the four sisters who wished to exchange views with their friends on the next steps, but the White Moon warriors seemed reluctant to talk. Only Mamoru addressed Petz, making an aside with her.

- Usagi's power since she got the Grail and evolved to the Eternal phase is much greater than when she was fighting you. The others have also improved a lot and have become super eternal warriors. Also, if you have destroyed that Great Wiseman, the few remaining cultists will be disoriented. But even so, we cannot let our guard down. Not even for a moment. We must leave, some difficulties have arisen. But don't worry, we will train and return if the time comes for battle. I hope you and your sisters are well. I understand that this is a very difficult situation. - He sighed in dismay. -

Petz nodded in thoughtful agreement.

- Yes, don't worry about us. We'll get through this. Besides, we must do what we can to defend this beautiful planet. We are indebted to it; it took us in even though we tried our best to destroy it in the past. And we can never forget that. Thank you for everything. Be quiet and attend to your own concerns.

Mamoru smiled and walked away. Meanwhile, the others exchanged a few words. Minako and Makoto took an interest in Karaberasu.

- Are you doing any better? - Sailor Venus wanted to know, taking her friend by the hand affectionately.

-Yes, thank you. - Kalie sighed. - I just need time to pass, that's all. We have a lot of things to take care of now, too. And I want to be part of the solution, not part of the problem.

-You're a truly admirable woman. - Makoto said. - Like the rest of your sisters.

-Thanks to the fact that we've tried to follow your example. – She smiled faintly at her interlocutor. -

-We are very proud and impressed. You fought so hard and gave a lesson in dedication and sacrifice. - Minako congratulated her, sighing regretfully. - I wish I could have been here, with you? -She was able to mumble before sobbing. -

Karaberasu hugged her, unable to help but cry in turn at the saddened look on Makoto's face as she had to wipe away a few tears. Both she and her companions were frustrated and helpless at the terrible aftermath her friend would have for the rest of her life. Not to mention Roy's tragic death or Tom's paralysis. This war was costing them too many casualties, too many. And unfortunately it was not over. Even if that Wiseman had been destroyed, there were sure to be more enemies lurking in the shadows. In the meantime, Ami tried to encourage Beruche, in her best affectionate tone.

-You are a very brave woman, and Roy will be very happy to see you from up there. -She said, taking both her friend's hands in hers. -

-I want to believe so, Ami. - her interlocutor murmured muffled. - Although I feel very empty. For me it's as if everything has lost its meaning. - She confessed bitterly. -

-I can imagine how hard it is, but you mustn't give up hope. - Her companion replied. - And especially when there are innocents who may suffer. Do it for them, and for your sisters. More than ever you must stand together and support each other.

-That's easy to say. - The young woman sighed, utterly discouraged. -

Ami watched her with regret, though she forced herself to lighten her countenance and then commented.

-I don't think I ever told you. But before we faced you we had other battles.

-You told me about a couple of aliens who came in a kind of tree. - Bertie recalled, adding, straining her memory. - And also about that realm of Darkness. You fought against a queen... I don't remember her name...

-It was Queen Metalia, but I didn't tell you how our last battle against her went," - Ami responded and then explained. - We had to go to the north pole, her base was there, and a few of her best warriors came our way. We fell one by one. First it was Makoto, then it was my turn. I stayed behind to take out the hallucination-producing power source of one of them. Then I know what my friends told me. Next to die was Minako, and finally Rei, protecting Usagi until the end. She fought against that evil queen Beryl transformed into Metalia and, in exchange for her life, she managed to purify the whole Earth.

-Then I don't understand. - Bertie was able to reply, looking at her in amazement. - How is it that you are alive?

-The Silver Crystal worked the miracle of purifying everything and bringing us back. - Her friend smiled at her. - And I can assure you that none of us knew that would happen. In fact, things got so bad that for a moment we lost hope, even Usagi. But after the darkest night the sun always rises again. Never forget that, Bertie.

- Are you implying that Roy might live again? - she asked her sharply and sarcastically. -

-I can't tell you that, in all conscience I don't know, and I find it very difficult. - Her friend sighed, pleading in spite of everything. - Although I have the impression that he will always be with you, just as we were with Usagi in her last battle.

Her companion fell into a thoughtful silence and perhaps understood. She smiled faintly and declared.

-Thank you Ami-chan, I know you're trying to cheer me up. But don't worry. I made a promise to Roy and I will keep it. I will never give up. I will fight those monsters and I will do everything in my power to destroy them.

She nodded, but that was not all she wanted. She wanted her friend to regain her hard-won joie de vivre. But she would have to give her time to slowly recover from this terrible blow.

-I know you will. And don't stop practising chess. - Sailor Mercury commented affectionately.

For her part, Rei was chatting with Cooan, the priestess giving her some advice on how to act against the supernatural.

-You need to sharpen your perceptions. These demons have suffered a severe setback with the destruction of the Wiseman, but they certainly won't stay quiet for long. I have given you as many amulets as I have brought. Still, they may not be enough for you. Try to get your hands on as many blessed items as you can.

-Yes, I will. - Cooan assured her. - Thank you for all you have taught me. I will try to be worthy of you.

-You're already worthy of yourself, which is the main thing. - Rei smiled, holding her affectionately by the shoulders to affirm. - And, above all, the most important thing is that you take care of your sisters and act as a link between them. Encourage them to move on, they need you now just as they needed you when they had to change.

-I will do everything I can. But I'm very worried about Kalie and Bertie. - Her interlocutor confessed. -

-They both need time to get over what's happened to them. And they will need all the love and understanding you and Petz can give them. - The priestess said. - And I am convinced that there is no one better than you, who learned what true love meant, to help them regain hope.

-Thank you for your words, dear friend. - Cooan smiled and gave her a heartfelt hug. -

          Meanwhile Mamoru approached Usagi and remarked in a discreet tone.

-We can go now.

-Very well. - She nodded. -

          And she called out to her fellow warriors with a hand wave. They said goodbye to their friends and followed her. The other three were visibly surprised, but before leaving for good, Usagi commented.

- We have to go. Talk to your sister Petz, she will explain it to you. Best of luck and good luck, girls. - She concluded with a smile. -

Then the warriors disappeared, carrying Mamoru with their sailor teleport. After watching them leave, all the sisters turned to Mamoru. She spoke to them, conveying Tuxedo's words, and it was Karaberasu who took the floor with a serious gesture.

- I don't know, but there's something that doesn't let me be calm, it's a feeling.

- What is it? – her older sister asked her. - I don't think we should worry too much about a group of worshippers, they're just normal humans.

- And now they'll be in disarray, it's time to finish off what's left of that damned cult. - Cooan added. -

- Yes, now we have the initiative. For once we won't be the target of their attacks, they'll be the target of ours," - Beruche agreed. -

- It's just that, you see. I have a feeling that the Great Wiseman has not been destroyed. - Kalie confessed to her with caution.  -

- That can't be, you saw him yourself and you took part in eliminating him. We tore him to pieces and then buried him in the rubble," - Petz declared sharply, almost seeming offended by such a statement. -

- Maybe you're right and I'm a bit paranoid, let it go. – Her sister asked, who turned away thoughtfully. Since she didn't feel like arguing on this occasion. -

Only Cooan stood thoughtfully, watching Kalie and wishing with all her might that she was wrong. For some time now, though, her sister had seemed to have a sixth sense when it came to her enemies.

- If only it was only because of her state of mind! - She wanted to think. -

But unfortunately for Cooan and the rest of the girls, Karaberasu's hunches were not wrong. In a new headquarters, a regenerated Great Wiseman was indoctrinating his fanatical acolytes.

- Loyal servants of the Master, chaos and confusion must reign throughout the city, so make sure it does. In this way we will distract the Justicieras and prepare the ground for the great coming of our Lord. - He added, pointing with one of his flabby sleeves to one of the nearest acolytes wrapped in another grey hood that veiled his features. - Fantoui, I leave you in charge of leading the attacks against the city!

- It is an honour. I will not disappoint you, sir. - He thanked him with a bow of his hood. -

- I hope so, for your sake. - The Wiseman replied curtly and disappeared. -

Meanwhile in Japan, everyone was gathered as usual at the Hikawa shrine. It was Makoto who commented.

-At least they succeeded. They have destroyed that Wiseman. The others are just mere humans; they'll be able to take them without difficulty.

-Yes, it's a good thing it's all over. - Minako sighed. -

Her companions nodded hopefully, though it was Usagi who, with tinges of regret, rebutted.

-No, it is not over. What's more... now the biggest tests for all of us are to come.

- What? - Rei said in disbelief. - Are you telling us that after all they've been through, they still have to suffer more? I imagined that these demons had not been completely destroyed, and I have told Cooan as much, but we cannot allow them to bear the full brunt of the fighting. We must return at the first sign of alarm. - She said with conviction. -

-Not yet, Rei. - Usagi commented.-

-It would be terrible if any more of them were to suffer irreparable damage. - Makoto interjected with obvious concern. -

-Listen up. - Mamoru asked them, sounding conciliatory. - I was forced to tell Petz that we were in trouble here. The truth is, at least we'll have some time to prepare. And this time I did tell her something real. We are going to train and when we return it will be for good.

-That's right, girls. - Usagi added in a more encouraging tone. - We're not going to leave you to your fate. The next time we return, it will be for the final battle, and there we can help them without restrictions!

-The problem is; will they be all right until then? - Ami wanted to know with great concern. -

-It will depend on them, but they are strong, brave and determined. I'm sure they will be. - Mamoru replied. -

-Besides. When we meet again, we'll come with reinforcements. I can assure you of that! - Usagi added. -

The others looked more relieved at those words, this time it seemed they would be free of restraints to help their friends. Already they were eager to return, but that, as their rulers had told them, would take time. So they set about preparing themselves as best they could for when the time came. Usagi and Mamoru meanwhile looked at each other with an unmistakable gesture of complicity. As they said goodbye to the others, they walked slowly through the streets of the city, commenting on that.

-I don't know. Judging by what has been revealed to us, things are going to get a lot worse before they start to get better. But there is a place for hope. - She declared. -

-That's true. We won't be alone. - Mamoru agreed. - We'll have to get ready, though. And quickly. Time goes by very quickly... Besides, we have that other matter.

-That's right. - His colleague replied. - But I'm told we'll still have time for that. We must take it one step at a time. This is the first and most urgent thing.

-More difficult decisions will have to be made. - The young man lamented. -

-I don't like it either. However, that is our task. - Usagi sighed, who finished off with resignation. - It's very painful, but that's the way it has to be....

And they both continued their walk, heading for her house. But while all these things were happening on Earth. Roy was suspended in the middle of a space where he floated effortlessly. With a clarity that almost blinded him and in great confusion, but without fear or worry. The pain was gone and he felt relaxed and even happy, moving inexorably closer to that great light that drew him irrevocably.

- Is this what it's like to be dead? - he thought in wonder. - I don't find it an unpleasant sensation. And that light is so beautiful and warm, I wonder what it is?

And in that glow he thought he saw a great ethereal figure awaiting him, opening its arms wide, and such was its majesty and the power of goodness it radiated that Roy wished with all his being to rush into its arms. He was smiling, almost crying with happiness, he was like a lost child returning home and he wanted to do it right then and there and stay there forever. But then he heard a powerful voice, he didn't know where it came from, whether from outside or from his own head. It was not from that being, though. Nevertheless, it answered his question by sentencing him with a grave tone, full of resonant wisdom and great solemnity.

-That which you see before is Eternity. The place where all those who leave the mortal world go. Yet you have not yet to cross over.

- But it is such a wonderful feeling! - Roy complained mentally. - I wish to go there. To melt into all that beauty. I have never wanted to go anywhere so much; I feel my own parents calling me from there.

- That is because the Light of the Creator Himself is in that place, with all those who have already crossed over, but He has not yet decided to call you. You have many things left to do in the world you came from.

- But am I not dead? - the boy asked, so puzzled that he even used his voice. -

- You are. - Was the unappeasable answer. -

- Well, it doesn't seem so bad to me. - He could smile incredulously, letting himself be rocked by a sweet breeze that resembled floating on the waters of a sea in absolute tranquillity. No, that was infinitely better. - So what should I do? - he wanted to know once he felt like asking. -

- Just withdraw from the threshold of the Eternal Way. - That voice responded, adding with kindness. - I will help you, for I know that it is very difficult for one who has just become conscious of his immortal soul.

And the boy felt a kind of invisible hand tugging him away from that wonderful feeling of fullness, and he was saddened. Though the effect of this was short-lived, and he found himself floating now, in a space of white, which stretched indeterminately without his eyes being able to take in anything else. At that instant that voice declared solemnly.

- Welcome Roy, we have been waiting for you for a long time. Your arrival was announced.

- Who are you? - he asked, looking in all directions. - Where am I?

                He felt his body and noticed that, apart from the absence of pain, there was no sign of the last fight he had fought against Nagashel. Even though he was sure that the demon had wounded him very badly. In the meantime, the voice answered him.

- I am the one who has guided your steps since the day you were born. I have sometimes appeared in your dreams.

-So this is Heaven? - Roy asked in amazement. -

- As I told you. You are in a place where we all go to and from where we return. - He heard in reply -

- So I've been a good kid, thank goodness! - the boy smiled in disbelief. - Well, it's not a bad place, I can't say I dislike it, in fact I feel better than ever.

- Now you must follow me," - the voice asked. - You must see what happened so that you can understand the reason for many things. It will not be pleasant for you, but it is necessary for you to know it.

- I agree. - Roy, who was quite disoriented as if he were a child learning to walk, agreed and asked. - But where should I go, I don't even know how to move. I have no point of reference.

- Don't worry about that. - His mysterious companion declared. -

And unnoticed, the boy was instantly transported. He was now in a place he did not remember. A planetary landscape with strange trees and plants had formed around him. After a few moments he heard the cries of creatures he did not recognise. He could see from high above him blue humanoid-looking beings running and hiding in panic. Roy descended and tried to communicate with them to no avail, they didn't seem to see or hear him.

- What's going on here? - Why are they ignoring me like this? I want to help them.

- They can't see or hear you," - another voice, not the one he had heard before, confirmed, adding. - "Well, they are only shadows of things. - For they are only shadows of things that were and cannot be changed.

- Can you read my thoughts? - the boy ventured now by word of mouth. -

- Anything is possible here," - his interlocutor said, adding with that air of profound mystery. - "But keep watching.

Lightning was falling from the sky. Roy looked up and discovered two figures, approached them and to his unpleasant surprise found that one of them was....

- Damn Valnak! I thought I had eliminated you. How is it possible that you are here? - He hurled a bolt of lightning at the demon, but it passed through him as if he were a ghost. -

The boy then remembered the words of that mysterious voice.

- They are only shadows of the past," - he said to himself reflectively. - I can do nothing to change it.

He then turned his attention to the second of the silhouettes that was also bombarding the helpless creatures with lightning. Along with Valnak, he was laughing sadistically. A helmet covered his head, but when he spoke, his voice sounded familiar to the boy.

- Ha ha ha ha ha! - the figure laughed. - "Hey Valnak, you've had enough fun, now let me have some. -

            Before them, and in an attitude of supplication, appeared what Roy interpreted as an old man and a child. The old man was desperately pleading with Valnak and his mysterious companion.

-Please, don't punish us anymore, I will give you what you are looking for. - He opened a pouch he was carrying and took out a Yalmutud stone, which he offered to Valnak. -

- A summoning stone! - the masked man exclaimed enthusiastically. -

- Very good, old man. You have made a wise decision," - the demon smiled with a satisfied air. - I like your reasonableness, don't you, Armageddon?

Roy jumped back at the name. The questioner raised his helmet and the incredulous boy could recognise his own face, but distorted by utter cruelty, he was paralysed with horror.

- Thank you. - Armageddon said, gently stroking the frightened boy's head as he turned to his colleague. - This has saved us a lot of time, hasn't it, my friend? - He smiled and nodded and his companion gleefully added. - Now that we've accomplished our task we can have more fun!

         And without warning he grabbed the boy by the neck and threw him into the air, disintegrating him with a bolt of lightning. The old man tried to beg for mercy, but was destroyed by Valnak in the same way.

-Noo, you bloody cowardly murderers!" - Roy howled out of his mind, trying to hit them. -

               But it was utterly useless. Feeling helpless, the boy was piercing their bodies without either of them noticing his presence at all. They both laughed with demonic laughter and the boy wished with all his might for it to end, but the vision was not yet over. Valnak turned to his companion, once they had cleared the area and there were no survivors to be seen.

- Now my friend, we must return to base. Let's hand over the stone to our superiors.

- Yes, and as soon as we do we have other orders, for this world has already been sentenced by us. - Armageddon explained. - Now we must go to Earth. News has come that the group we sent there has failed. After the defeat of the demon Metalia. This time it was that Wiseman and his stupid puppets of the Black Moon. There is even a group of traitors who have gone over to the other side. We'll have to go and talk to him for confirmation.

- He means Bertie and his sisters," - Roy thought dumbfounded. -

-Yes, I remember we've been to their home world before. Quite a boring little rock. Doing some of his dirty work for that hooded idiot. When do we have to leave? - Valnak asked. -

- Me, right now. I must infiltrate this planet and adapt to its ways. I possess this mortal who, with the body and Saiyan potential he has, will make me invincible once I develop it. But I can't do that now as an adult, I will have to travel back in time and reincarnate. If something should go wrong and I don't make it in the allotted time, I'm counting on you, my friend, to revive me.

- That's a given! Valnak assured him with true passion. - It's a promise I make to you! I'll come for you!

- I know I will. You will never leave me alone. - Armageddon whispered to him with strange softness. -

After those words his companion smiled taking Valnak's face in his hands and at that very moment when both faces came closer the demons vanished into nothingness. Roy was left floating again, lost in the luminous void. He was very affected and wanted to know what they meant by saiyajin. The voice then spoke to him again.

- Don't blame yourself for what happened, you had to know this to become truly aware of your mission.

Other images appeared before the boy, but very different. He was himself again, as a child, growing rapidly but almost imperceptibly at the same time.  As an adult in white armour and a sword, he was heading towards what looked like a battle. He was followed by a large troop leading against a legion of monstrous beings, but Roy could not see the outcome. He remembered these images from his dreams, though.

- Who am I? - he asked aloud for nuance. - I mean who am I really? Where do I come from?

- From a world far away, far beyond this time and dimension. - His unseen companion replied, - a magical and beautiful world that was once pure and wonderful. But it was destroyed by the creatures of darkness, like so many other peaceful and beautiful worlds. Just as it happened to the realm of the warrior women. You were one of the princes who fought against evil.

- I want to know more! - Roy asked him urgently. - Please tell me more!

- No, not yet, boy. First you must fulfil your mission. Afterwards, you will remember everything yourself, I will help you do it. - The voice responded to add in a more cordial way. - Now you must come with me, it's time for you to meet me. But first there are two people who want to talk to you.

             The young man was transported again, this time to a different place... now he was surrounded by a place that was very familiar to him. There he recognised his parents' house, and the two of them were watching him in each other's arms. With his father, John draping an arm around the shoulders of his mother, Marsha. The boy could only babble between excitement and surprise.

- Mummy, Daddy!

- My son! - the woman smiled warmly. - At last you have joined us. My precious boy with light green eyes.

              Her son was now crying emotionally and wanted to come closer to them, for a few moments he hesitated. But now he was supposed to be in the same place as his parents. Finally, he could not and would not resist any longer and hugged them. It was something impossible to describe, it was a spiritual embrace, as if their three souls were touching.

- I love you so much! I missed you so much! - He was able to say between sobs. -

-We wanted to wait for you, my son. - His father was able to say, caressing the boy's face to keep him awake. - We must go to Eternity now. But you must not come with us, at least not yet.

-We were allowed to stay here until we could see you once more. - His mother added. -

-I'm sorry I wasn't a better son. - The boy was able to say, and, ashamed, confessed. - I did things unworthy of you.

-No, darling. - His mother whispered lovingly. - You were not to blame for that. You were possessed by evil, but you knew how to free yourself and fought for the good and for the love you had for your friends. We are very proud of you! We love you more than anything. Never forget that.

        Roy shook his head, however, and replied with embarrassed regret.

-I don't mean Armageddon. I mean the year after your death. I didn't behave as you taught me. I was a scoundrel and I didn't study as I should have. I was also selfish. I just had a good time without caring about anyone or anything. I was on the verge of being expelled. - He lamented. -

-Son. - His father replied in a loving but firm tone. - It is true that your actions were not as decent as they should have been. But you were lost and depressed after losing us.  You were too young and had no purpose. Don't worry about it and listen to us. We told you that you should study at the Golden, and that was because your destiny awaited you there. You had to meet your friends and the love of your life. This one and the one before. That has been revealed to us here and you have also allowed us to see a glimpse of what the future may be. Your future. And you are called to be a fighter for the cause of good. Don't forget that, son. You possess great powers; of which you have so far discovered only a few...

              That sentence reminded the boy of a scene from his favourite film. His father smiled warmly now, he had meant it. The boy shook his head negatively, though.

-But I'm dead now, dad. - The boy replied with a tinge of pain, more as he added. – “It's too late. What can I do now?

-You will come back, sweetheart," - his mother said, giving him a kiss on the cheek to reassure him. - You will save many with your courage and strength. You will inspire others. That has to be your mission. And one distant day, when you have accomplished it and passed the baton to those who will come after you, you will be able to join us.

-Now you will have to work hard. - John smiled tenderly at him, remembering him with longing. - Like when you were little and tried to make your first baskets.

- Yes, that's true. I remember that. - He smiled too, carried away by the nostalgia of those years. When his father made him a little basketball hoop and taught him to play in the garden, when Roy was about four years old. - Dad, mum. I give you my word. I will do whatever it takes to help people, if I can still do it.

-You can, honey, of course you will. - Marsha assured, and after once again caressing her son's face, who held her hand lovingly in his own, she said goodbye in a quiet voice. - We must go now. You must go on.

-We shall meet again, Robert. - Her father said lovingly, too, to declare. - We were always so proud of you and I know we always will be. We have been able to see that future in which you will become a great person and you will love and care for your own family as much as we loved and cared for you.

-Thank you both. – The boy was able to say, and to his surprise, he had his vision blurred by tears, it was strange, he didn't think a spirit could cry. - I will take you with me wherever I go, and I will be a worthy son to you, I promise?

              His parents slowly separated from him, a great light appeared behind them and they both slowly moved away until they merged with it. The last thing Roy could hear were the words of his mother, who whispered to him with great affection.

-See you soon my dear child. Be happy always.

           Soon the boy was transported again, though now he only wished to be able to fulfil the promise he had made to his parents, so he waited patiently to see what his next destination would be...

-Wherever I must go, this time I will make you very proud of me," - He reaffirmed his promise. -

         On Earth, a month had passed. The course came to an end, the girls and Tom graduated. At last! They were teachers! Roy was awarded his degree posthumously. Beruche went up to collect it and couldn't contain her excitement.

-We did it Roy, my love. This is dedicated to you, darling. - She thought, unable to hold back her tears. -

After the graduation and the mutual congratulations, the students left. Roy's friends and teammates bid a fond farewell to Beruche, Tom and Cooan and finally only the three of them, Melanie and Malcolm, took a last nostalgic look at their places.

- It's a wonder it's over. - Melanie sighed. -

- Yes, we finally got what we wanted. Even if our friend fell by the wayside. - Roberts added regretfully. -

The now ex-head cheerleader glared at him and the boy himself cursed his big mouth, but Bertie, far from being annoyed or depressed, smiled at them in rebuttal.

- Roy will always be here among us and we will see him in every joke and every laugh of the boys and boys we teach.

Cooan agreed, placing her hands on her sister's shoulders, and Melanie, Malcolm and Tom nodded in agreement. It was Tom who asked his partner's partner.

- What are you going to do now?

- I'm not quite sure. - she replied. - For the time being I'm going far, far away. My father promised me a long trip when I pass, and then I suppose I'll move on to look for a job. For the time being Malcolm and I will go on holiday together.

- If your father promises not to take the gun! - her fiancé said jovially. -

            That comment made Melanie and Tom laugh. For their part, Beruche and Cooan looked at each other blankly, it must have been a matter between them, and their friend explained it to them with a touch of nostalgia.

- It was a joke we played on Roy last year. Melanie's father. Or so we led him to believe. He came here armed with a gun to give him what he deserved for abusing his daughter's moral chastity.

- You should have seen his face! - Melanie smiled fleetingly, unable to counteract the sad gleam in her eye as she remembered her partner and former boyfriend. - How he ran!

There was a general sigh, and Cooan took the floor to drop the subject.

- And you, Malcolm, what are you going to do?

The giant rubbed his chin and snorted. Once he had taken his girlfriend by the waist with one of his strong arms, he replied.

- I'm going on holiday with Melanie for now, and when I get back I'm going to try my luck with a professional football team. I have some good offers. What about you three? - He asked in turn with sincere interest. -

- We're not sure. As for me, I want to stay here and establish as a kindergarten teacher. I like children very much. - Cooan smiled, resting one of her hands now on Tom's chair. -

- I'll probably go home to Kansas for a few days and see. - The boy, who did not wish to confess that he did not see his future at all clearly, for despite his late friend's good wishes, he doubted he wanted to tie Connie to his life, though for the moment it would be better not to say anything. He only affirmed. - I missed my parents and my brother Daniel so much... they came looking for me.

They did. They had been present in the audience when the diplomas were handed out, but wisely wanted to wait until their son had said goodbye to his friends.

-I'll join them shortly. I don't want them to wait too long..." - the boy commented. -

- Have you thought about what you're going to do, Bertie? - Melanie asked her in a friendly tone. -

               And the glances now converged on the questioned girl, who returned them one by one and smiled shyly to reply.

- I haven't the faintest idea. Maybe I'll take a bridging course to teach high school, maybe I'll look for a job, or maybe I'll go back home to Tokyo, far away from the memories.

No one said anything until a few moments of silence had passed. It was Cooan who in turn asked Melanie.

- Have you heard from April?

-No," - she sighed. - She disappeared, and Miss Parker had no choice but to discharge her. I'm terribly sorry. That poor girl was not well. Malcolm and I tried to find her, but it was no use.

-It's as if she was swallowed up by the earth. - Roberts intervened. -

Tom and Cooan looked at each other, he had been telling her some things. They decided not to overwhelm Beruche, who had enough of her own grief. However, they didn't have time to say anything more on the subject. Hank Williams approached them smiling.

-Congratulations to everyone. - He commented. -

-Same to you. – Melanie answered with a forced smile. -

That guy wasn't very popular, and besides, he was still a year away from finishing his degree. He seemed genuinely happy for them, though. He didn't say more, it was as if he didn't dare speak in front of so many witnesses, he gave Bertie an intense look that she didn't notice, and then just walked away.

-What a weird guy! - Malcolm commented with a nod from Cooan and Melanie. -

-He's always been a bit odd, but, I don't know. I've noticed him being stranger than usual. - Tom said. -

-Well, let's leave him alone. -He's not a bad kid. - Beruche stood up for him and sighed. - It doesn't matter now. I don't think we'll see him again. I don't even know what I'm going to do with my life...

        Her companions just looked at her sadly. Then it was Melanie who hugged both girls and then gave Tom a kiss on the cheek, declaring.

- Whatever happens, I hope you can be happy and hopefully we will see each other again. And above all, thank you for your courage. Malcolm and I know that this university and this country, and even the world, owe you a great deal.

Her boyfriend did the same, hugging the girls and shaking hands with Tom to say an emotional goodbye.

- Take care friends and good luck to all of you. I hope to see you all again very soon.

Tom, Cooan and Beruche nodded and wished them the same. Melanie and Malcolm disappeared, holding each other by the waist.

-I don't know, Mel. Beruche is not well. – A chagrined Roberts commented. -

-I've seen that, and I wish I could have done more for her. - His girlfriend lamented, stating regretfully. - Both she and Connie have suffered a lot, and so has poor April. I hope they do well!

-Don't be afraid for your roommate, she's probably back home. - The boy wanted to cheer her up. -

Although he didn't expect the young woman to stop in her tracks and, with a cheerful gesture, exclaim.

- Of course! You're right.

- About what? -  Malcolm asked her with visible bewilderment. -

-What you said about April. She must have gone home. I'm sure of it! All I have to do is find out where she lives. I think she was from Pennsylvania. But I don't remember the town. Her parents wrote to her sometimes. I could see if she left any letters in our room. She left in such a hurry that she hardly picked up any of her things.

-I don't know, Mel. That's looking through her private belongings. - Roberts commented reluctantly. -

-If it were under different circumstances, I wouldn't do it. - Melanie replied, pleading concern. - But I'm very worried about her. I don't think she's well. She was saying strange things, I heard her talk about her sister once. I didn't know she had one.

- Her sister?

-Yes, sometimes she talked in her sleep, it wasn't very often and I didn't think much of it either. - Her companion commented to her. - I don't know, if she has left a letter from her parents, surely her address will be on the envelope, on the sender's side.

-That's true. - Malcolm had to admit. -

-In that case, please let me look, and if I find anything, I beg you to help me to go and see her parents. They at least deserve to know what is going on, in case April is not there.

-I suppose Miss Parker has called them. - Roberts conjectured. -

-I have no idea. I haven't had a chance to talk to her, but, you understand! She's my friend, and she's a member of our Golden Eagle sisterhood, and we must do something to help her. We must do something to help her, don't you think so?

Her boyfriend nodded, and the two went on their way. Their friends stood in that classroom, alone there for a moment, not talking. At last they were ready to leave. In fact, just as Tom had said, his parents and his brother Daniel were waiting outside. Beruche and Cooan's sisters were doing the same. But the two of them were reluctant to leave, it was as if they felt that once they left, they would never come back. So, although Tom walked away towards the exit, the two of them still lingered a few moments longer in their old classroom. Bertie sat in her seat and there, in the now empty classroom, she imagined Roy throwing paper balls when the teacher on duty had his back turned. Surely that moron would say something silly, provoking general merriment and her indignation. She smiled and her eyes misted over, but she had promised herself not to cry any more. Cooan understood her sister well and said nothing, just sat beside her, sharing the moment, absent also in her own memories and thinking of her late friend and her own future with Tom. Tom was on his way out the classroom door when he saw his parents chatting with one of his teachers.

-I am pleased to meet you. Your son is a truly exceptional person. - The man whose name was James Harding and who was dark, of medium height, in his forties. He had a gentle gesture and soft features and he had taught psychology of learning to Tom and his classmates. And he was certainly to the point when he added. - I'd like to offer him a job here. To him and two of his female colleagues.

-That's for my son to decide. - Mr. Rodney replied, and when he saw him arrive, he said. - -"Thomas, your teacher wants to propose something to you

-Well, you tell me, sir. -The boy asked with visible interest. -

-If it's all right with your parents, you'll have to delay your return home....

-If our son is happy here, it won't be a problem for us. - Sarah commented, shaking Tom's hand warmly, which he shook. -

-Besides, he's an adult, he's the one who has to make his own decisions. - Will agreed. -

Harding smiled and nodded deferentially. Then he said to his former pupil....

- Would you be interested in starting to practice now, Mr Rodney?

-But... you mean .... - He was able to respond in complete surprise. -

- To teach. - His teacher confirmed. -

The boy's parents looked at each other with pride. It could not be otherwise. Even his younger brother allowed himself to intervene with a jovial tone, saying....

-I wouldn't even think about it if I were you... or don't you dare with so many children?

That made Tom smile. He nodded. Deep down he didn't want to go home. He wouldn't know what he could do there. He was learning to live in that wheelchair and he still had a long way to go. And above all he wanted to feel useful. Besides, after the loss of Roy, he knew that they had a destiny. It wouldn't be honourable to run away to Kansas hoping those monsters wouldn't catch up with him there. In fact, he'd rather walk away from his family as long as they were safe.

-I will gladly accept. And I will help you convince my companions. - He assured. -

-Well said! - His brother celebrated enthusiastically, making everyone smile. -

-Daniel, you mustn't meddle in conversations that don't concern you. - His father reprimanded him when he sobered up. -

-I'm sorry, Dad. - I didn't mean to intrude. Just one more thing. - He allowed himself to add. - Maybe it would be a good idea for me to study here too.

-Don't think we make job offers to all students. - A laughing Harding warned him. -

-It's not that, sir, it's just that I've seen so many beautiful girls. Maybe it would be a good idea to study teaching. - The boy answered. -

His older brother laughed helplessly, as did the teacher. Sarah blushed a little and Will just shook his head affably. At last, the father of both boys declared.

-You'd better go to your teacher. Take all the time you need, son. We'll go back to Kansas if you don't need us.

-Thanks, Dad. - The excited boy replied. - Like you've always told us, I'd like to stand on my own two feet and show you what I can do.

-You don't have to prove anything to us, honey. - His mother smiled at him and said proudly. - Just do what makes you happiest.

-It's true. You've proved all you have to prove. - His father nodded with pride in his eyes, sentencing. - You're a man. And more importantly, a good one. Do what you think is best.

            And after these words that touched the boy's heart, his parents and brother hugged him goodbye. Then the boy returned accompanied by his teacher. The proposal that the teacher was telling him on the way was really attractive. And so he wanted to indicate it by drawing the attention of his friends with renewed enthusiasm.

- Girls, we have to go ahead for Roy, to devote our efforts to making this world a little better. That's what he would have wanted and we won't let him down.

- No, that's for sure. He will always be in our hearts. - Cooan replied with a faint, nostalgic smile. -

- It's so hard to think that he's not here, he was so excited to be a teacher. He would have made a wonderful teacher, I'm sure of it. - Beruche affirmed emotionally, looking at Roy's diploma and pressing it gently against her chest. -

Mr Harding approached them slowly, not wanting to disturb this intimate moment, and said gently.

- I am very sorry for your loss. Roy was a fine boy, but as your partner says, life must go on and I am sure what I am about to say will cheer you up. Your friend," - he pointed to Tom, adding -  "already knows about it and has accepted.

- What's it all about, Tommy? - Cooan asked, looking intrigued at him. -

- He'll tell you now," - he answered, almost amused to see the curious expression on both of their faces. - Be patient.

And without further ado, the teacher went on to explain the nature of his offer.

- I have two vacancies for teachers in a primary school and, in view of your CVs, you are the most suitable. Your friend has accepted a teaching position at the same school. He will teach all the students and also some disabled pupils. He told me that he wants to pass on his spirit of achievement to the children and I am sure he will succeed. - He paused, looking resigned, and then added apologetically. - The salary is not much yet. But I'm sure they'll be able to raise it before long. - He added more optimistically, rounding off his argument with other advantages. - Plus, you'll gain valuable experience for the future. What do you think?

Harding seemed to await the answer with visible interest. He valued the two girls highly, they had been among his best pupils and he was convinced they would do a great job. But they looked at each other and seemed to be consulting each other with their eyes. Until Beruche replied.

- It's not the money," - the girl objected in a slightly uncertain tone. - I just don't know if I'm ready yet.

- Bertie, you must be strong," - Cooan encouraged her more determinedly. - Remember Petz when she lost Sapphire. She pulled through and was very supportive of us coming here to realise our dream, just like Karaberasu.

Her sister was silent for a few agonising moments, and many memories of her past experiences flashed through her mind. It was clear, she wanted a chance, and here it was. And of course, the promise she made to Roy hung in the air.

- Yes, I will be strong, like she was. - Beruche assured, looking at the teacher to answer - I accept.

- So Will I. - Cooan agreed, she was eager to hear that answer from her sister to really feel free to say yes. And he immediately offered other good reasons to undertake the adventure. - Besides, it will be wonderful for us all to be in the same school. Working with the children, the three of us together.

- And to be able to work straight after graduating is lucky. Not many people get that opportunity. - Tom finished off the round of good vibes, after which he turned to his teacher in an acknowledged tone. - Thank you very much sir, we won't let you down, you'll see.

- You're welcome, and I'm sure I'll be very proud of you. - Harding said. -

           The professor shook hands with everyone and after congratulating them again, he gave them the address. They could tell from the area where it was located that it would be a pleasant place, in a residential setting. And after a few seconds to assimilate their new status as teachers, their now colleague smiled at them, adding.

- Today is Friday, take the weekend to rest and come on Monday to meet the children.

- I can't wait to meet the children, our first pupils without being internships! - Beruche declared more cheerfully. - I like the sound of it.

- We will educate them and look after them as best we can, you can count on that, sir. - Cooan promised her with equal cheerfulness. -

- Good luck to you all and see you on Monday. - The professor smiled and said goodbye. -

- We have to tell the girls and Tommy's parents! - Cooan declared visibly happy. -

- Yes, let's tell them as soon as possible. - Bertie agreed, nodding with a faint smile. -

- Come on, girls! - Tom encouraged - We have to celebrate! I'll tell my parents and Dany that they can go back to Kansas whenever they want.

-We'll tell Kalie and Petz. - Cooan said, equally happy. -

Bertie nodded, able to smile now. That's what she needed, a goal, a dream to be realised, hers and Roy's. And with renewed hope at last the three of them left the classroom, trying to put the bad memories behind them. But the evil of the Sect did not rest, something they would soon discover. For his part, there was another individual who, frustrated and annoyed, said to himself.

- Damn it, they promised me she would be mine! I have served them as they asked. Now they have to give her to me....

And he had been hiding, backstage at the graduation, keeping an eye on the group of those kids. And he wasn't going to let her get away from him, he liked her too much. So, he decided to investigate and go back to the place where he had been recruited.

-Yes, and I'll make sure they deliver her to me. - He thought with glee and even excitement. - She has to love me, and she will....

So off he went, thinking up a sinister plan to get his longed-for prize. For her part, another who longed to find something was Melanie. When she got to her room, after saying goodbye to her boyfriend, she began to search. She looked in the wardrobe and on the bedside tables they had. In her roommate's room she found quite a few stacked documents, number plates, some notes and so on. He was thinking of giving up when he found a few envelopes, all sealed. When he looked at them, her face lit up with a smile.

- Yes, that's just what I was looking for! - She mused...

           And when she looked at the back she did indeed see a sender, the letter came from Pennsylvania, more specifically from the city of Philadelphia, and it also had a street address. Now she remembered, meditating.

- What a fool I am! April always joked that it came from the city of brotherly love. When we joined the Golden Eagle sorority, she told me she loved me. - She sobbed now. - Like her sister.

But April never told her who sister that was. Melanie didn't even think she had one. She took it more as a simile. Now she was starting to fit the pieces together. Maybe her roommate wanted to tell her that she loved her without doing it directly. After wiping away her tears, though, something else surprised her. Those letters were unopened. And though she was obviously surprised, she didn't want to focus on that now, let alone be the one to open them. She already had what she needed. Without a second's thought, she ran to find Malcolm. They had to go on a trip...

**START**