GWA39E

**START**

**Ail versus Gergel.**

Roy and the others were flying towards Earth, highly focused for combat. The group had easily disposed of dozens of demons along the way and now, in silence, they each relived the memories of their deaths at the hands of the powers of Darkness. The hard training, they had undergone and their desire for vengeance drove them along with the desire to regain peace. But most of all, the longing to see and embrace their loved ones again. They flew swiftly over the terrain, the landscape changing in rapid motion, and as they descended steadily towards the ground, they could see the diabolical evil spreading everywhere.

- Look! - Diamond pointed down there - the invasion of the infernal legions has begun in earnest. We must stop them as soon as possible.

- We will go lower and attack. - Roy pointed out - it's not too late, they've only summoned low-powered demons.

- Then let's not waste a moment, let's go after them," - Sapphire harangued. -

They all swooped down and attacked the legions of demons causing great devastation. The enemy spread across an immense portion of the sky, like a biblical plague of locusts. What a better comparison! And though the beings of darkness were at first taken aback, they were soon able to pull themselves together and strike back. The five of them formed a huddle, covering each other's backs, circled each other and unleashed their great energy potential. Countless ranks of opponents were disintegrated swiftly, but even more swiftly replenished.

- I hope there are not many more left. - Ail gasped, accounting for another pair approaching from his side. -

- We have to hang in there, this is just a warm-up! - Sapphire encouraged him. -

- We can take them all! – Diamond encouraged them, taking out another group of devils who were trying to attack him. -

- Yeah. Compared to what we've had to endure in our training, this is nothing. - Nephrite said. -

- Come on guys, target practice, don't leave a single one of those bastards behind. - Roy harangued them. - You know, give me another one! - He exclaimed, paraphrasing the lyrics of one of the songs they had trained with. -

And he and his companions continued the barrage of lightning with renewed vigour. The few demons who managed to evade them were killed with a single blow, such was the power that the members of this group possessed. The enemy soon realised that this tactic was useless, these five extraordinary fighters did not seem to tire, and if any of them faltered, they would eat a bean of their own, immediately regaining their energy. Hundreds of low ranking demons fell before they were ordered to retreat back to their base. The boys were then able to continue their advance.

- Let´s go!  - Diamond exclaimed. - We're going to teach them a lesson they'll never forget.

-Yes, brother. - Sapphire agreed. - I'm with you...

-No mercy. - Nephrite snapped. -

-They've retreated, that's a good sign. - Ail commented. -

-We can't be complacent. As soon as they regroup they will surely attack again. We must go to meet the monster that defeated me. He is the most powerful of them all. So much so that I can feel him from here. Let's go! - Roy told them. -

The others nodded. The five continued their flight, determined to intercept and destroy the monster. In heaven, Goku watched the pre-battle skirmishes and chatted with a very particular character, a remote ancestor of his pupil. Short, with long brown hair rising upwards in an oddly pointed shape and stern black eyes, he seemed unfazed by anything that was happening on Earth.

- I'm sure Roy and his boys will win! Don't you think so, Vegeta? - Goku asked him animatedly. -

- You'd know," - he replied sullenly, without much interest. - That's what you trained them for. Tell me something, Kakarot, why do you want to train him personally? - He added now, showing more curiosity. -

- I don't know," - Goku smiled when asked for his real birth name, shrugging his shoulders. - Maybe he was curious to meet our grand, grand, grand, grand, grand....

- Enough! If you keep going, it'll take you half an hour. - Vegeta cut him off without disguising his irritated impatience. - I know what you mean. Answer me!

- Well, to tell you the truth, a good friend of mine asked me and I also wanted to know how far I could go. The truth is, he doesn't look much like you. He's taller, better looking and, above all, he has a sense of humour! Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! - He laughed with his characteristic gesture of placing a hand on the back of his head. - He must have got that from me!

           Vegeta crossed his arms with an unfriendly face, but said nothing. On Earth meanwhile, Beruche and Cooan arrived at the school and warned of the danger. At first people didn't take them seriously. Of course they would not have believed them if they had been themselves, but considering that they came in their identity as Justicieras, no one rejected the alarm when they introduced themselves and showed who they were.

-We are the Justicieras fighters. - The Ice Lady declared to the astonishment of some of the teachers and the headmaster himself. -

-You must evacuate this place and seek shelter as soon as possible. - The Fire Lady instructed them. -

-I don't know who you are, ladies, but carnival or Halloween is not this time of year. - One of the teachers told them, making the others smile. -

-It's not a joke. - Bertie said, who, to the astonishment of those individuals, brought out his ice sword, as well as a pile of snowflakes and icy needles, which he directed at a tree, leaving it covered in a large layer of frost, while adding in a serious and worried tone. - A terrible danger is coming this way.

-You must believe us. Every second counts. - Cooan added, drawing his bow and creating a fiery arrow that stunned everyone. -

- What do you want us to do? - A now frightened teacher asked. -

They both knew her; she was one of their primary school classmates. A woman named Rose. However, thanks to their camouflage and the mask they wore, they were shielded by anonymity and avoided being recognised. So it was the Ice Lady who instructed her.

-Get the children out of here. Take them to the shelter, this place has an old bunker from the fifties, right? From the cold war days. They'll be safe there.

- How do you know that? - The perplexed director, a guy with dark hair combed back with hair gel, asked them. -

-Because we are the warriors of the moon, and our task is to protect the people. - Cooan replied forcefully. - Now, hurry up! -he urged them. -

They actually noticed that the school had a rather old infrastructure. Their former teacher, Mr Harding, who had hired them, told them that the land had been bought several years ago and that the then owners had used what were once buildings for an army base. Fortunately, it included that shelter.

-Nothing could be more appropriate at this time. - Bertie mused, looking very concernedly upwards. -

           And the sky was beginning to turn dark, as in the biblical plagues a dense cloud covered it. But in reality it was thousands of demons flying there. When they saw this, no one had any doubt that they had to obey. Fortunately, the school was just outside the main flow of the evil swarm of destruction. However, a few hundred of the terrible creatures were swerving in and approaching fast.

-They'll only have a few minutes, we'll cover them. - Bertie assured. -

She and her sister looked at each other, they wouldn't stand a chance against all those fiendish beings, but it was their duty to resist.

- Ready? - Cooan smiled faintly, looking at her sister. -

-Ready or not, they're coming. - Bertie sighed. -

             None of them wasted a second. Helping their fellow teachers, the girls were able to get most of the children out, who looked on in amazement at these amazing heroines.

-Don't be afraid. - Cooan smiled, reassuring them. - Everything is going to be fine.

-You'll just have to stay in there for a while. -Bertie added in an affable tone. -

              Fortunately, the little ones trusted the famous Justicieras and were able to be led quickly to the shelter, which was to be sealed immediately. However, with everyone's haste and nerves, as well as the short time they had, one class was not evacuated.

- Oh, my God! - One teacher exclaimed. - We didn't have time to get them all out. The second-grade class must still be full; their teachers weren't here. They haven't gone out into the playground with the children, and the bunker has to be closed now!

They both looked at each other, without the wretch knowing it, he was referring precisely to them.

-We found the teachers on our way here and told them to seek shelter in the city. - Bertie was able to improvise, adding in a tone that tried to be reassuring, but without lying when she assured them. - Fear not, we will take care of the children as if we were them.

-We will protect them with our lives. - Cooan agreed, ordering the guy. - Go quietly and be safe.

              He nodded, not wasting a moment to carry out the order. Together with the other teachers and the other children, they locked themselves in the bunker, which was only a few dozen metres away. Fortunately, it had solid concrete walls and a reinforced steel door that closed with an alarm sound. Chances were that the demons would not bother trying to get in. The girls at least sighed in relief at that.

-They'll be fine. They should have air filters and some supplies and water stored. - Cooan commented, adding. - It seems to me that, at one time, I heard someone in the cloister say that they had that place maintained and well stocked in case of any kind of emergency.

                Beruche nodded. But in the case of the second-grade class, it was a different matter. They were in the school building and it was too late to move them as the first demons began to come ashore. And so she noted with growing anxiety.

-But not our students. We must barricade ourselves in with them. - She said with urgency. -

- Then let us hurry! - Cooan urged her sister. -

The two were about to enter the building and close the door when Bertie saw someone outside. A person who looked familiar, and she stopped.

- What are you doing? - The Fire Lady asked her. - We haven't a moment to lose.

-Look. - She pointed at her in astonishment. - Isn't that him?

And that guy saw them in turn, waved a hand somewhat awkwardly, smiled, waving.

-Hello girls, it's good to see you again. How are you doing?

- Who are you? - Cooan asked. -

Although both she and her sister knew it, but in addition to trying to hide it, they simply didn't believe their eyes. It was that mocking boy who laughed, to unveil.

- Come on, Connie, Bertie! That costume suits you very well, but I know who you are. You'd better surrender.

- But what are you saying? - The astonished Bertie could retort, giving up the masquerade, and calling him at last. - Hank, don't be mad!  Come here. The demons are coming.

-I know. - He asserted in an amused tone, leaving them both aghast as he told them. - They took a little longer than expected, since I asked them to give you some time.

- What? - Beruche exclaimed. -

Although she had no doubt that Hank was telling the truth, next to him landed two grotesques, almost gargoyle-like winged creatures that outnumbered him by at least two heads. At the first instant the girls feared that they would hover over him to tear him to pieces, but the monsters stood submissively, one on either side of the young man.

- You see? - he declared, proudly displaying a sort of black cloak he wore with a red trident embroidered on it. - I am now an officer of your horde. That honour has been conferred upon me. I command an entire company of demons.

- You are a miserable traitor to the human race! - Cooan shouted at him. - How could you sell yourself out like this?

- To sell me out? - Hank repeated, sounding both amused and gleeful, and then spat with hatred. - No, it was the human race that betrayed me. Always laughing at my expense. Mocking me, calling me a freak and a nerd. Well, now they're going to know what a real freak of nature is. - He sentenced with a tone full of vindication. -

The two girls looked at each other in horror. They could hardly believe it, but unfortunately they were well aware of the seductive power of darkness. Especially with people like Hank. So it was Beruche who, in a tone somewhere between conciliatory and friendly, wanted to respond.

-Listen, you're a good boy. I know you. Don't let them fill you with hate. That's how they get hold of you. Trust us, we know.

-That's true. - Cooan added, trying to sound friendlier. - You have to realise that this is not right.

However, the boy slowly shook his head and smiled, replying in a friendly tone.

-That's why I ordered my soldiers to wait. You are good girls. One of the few who have never made fun of me. Connie, I respect you and Tom. He's a fine boy, too. Don't be afraid of anything. You can join us and you'll be very well treated. And as for you, Bertie, you are charming, and very clever and pretty. I have always liked you. - He confessed to her, leaving her astonished, the more so when he added in an inciting tone. - If you will be my wife, I promise you that you and your sisters will come to no harm. What's more, you will all have a magnificent position in the new world we are going to forge.

- A new world? What kind of world could you create, on the blood of millions of innocents? - Beruche asked in horror. -

-I give you my word. All these children and their teachers will be spared, if you join me. - The boy assured her, he in a witticism that he found even amusing, qualified. - We could play for their lives in a game of chess. What do you think? If you win and accept my proposal, they will all be free and safe. You can't say I'm not generous.

Bertie felt a shiver run down her spine. She was emaciated with horror - it was that very thing she had offered to her then enemy Sailor Mercury! Now, it was as if karma was multiplying it back to her, with shame and dismay she understood how Ami must have felt then. And yet Ami forgave her.

-I hope I can live up to you, dear friend. - She thought with a mixture of gratitude and bitterness. -

-Don't listen to him. Don't you dare. I've already sent a distress signal to Petz and Kalie over the intercom. They won't be long. - Cooan whispered to her sister, snapping her out of her thoughts. -

-Listen. - Beruche replied sternly. - If you want me in exchange for the lives of others, so be it. But I will not allow you to gamble with the lives of innocent children.

- Don't do it! - her sister demanded, shocked to hear this. -

-You were always the smarter of the two of us, Bertie. - Hank smiled approvingly, affirming in a resounding tone. - I promise nothing bad will happen to the others, if you agree to be mine. You won't regret it, we can play countless games of chess, and not only that. You will see, the succubus have taught me the arts of love with which I will please you for centuries. Yes, my dear. They have promised me that we will be immortal. As you can see I offer you everything, what more could you ask for?

The woman did not even want to look at this individual, such was the disgust and distaste he produced on her. But she was in an agonising internal struggle. Of course she hated having to go with him, but what choice did she have? She could not allow her sister and those kids to be the victims of her refusal. For his part, Hank was filled with joy and excitement. He wasn't going to wait much longer to have her. He remembered and celebrated that encounter with that hooded man. When, months ago, full of frustration, he was leaving the campus after seeing Bertie cuddled up to that bastard from Malden. Another one who had fallen under the nets of that cheap conqueror! Shaking his head, he walked out the front door and strolled down one of the adjacent streets. He was alone, or so he thought, when a deep voice said to him, almost as if whispering.

-It's an injustice. The best ones always end up with guys like that. And they never notice guys like you.

- Who is he? - He wanted to know, looking in all directions without seeing anyone. -

But that voice continued unperturbed.

-You deserve at least a chance. Let that girl know what you are worthy, don't worry. You can have her. All you have to do in return is join them, and no one else will ever laugh at you again. Or, if you do, you'll face the consequences.

- Where are you? - Hank asked, looking around once more without success. -

-Keep walking. –It was the answer. -

The boy obeyed, soon entering a strange path he had never seen before. There, surrounded by leafy trees, was a sort of square earthy ground. And on it, the silhouette of a tall hooded man, whose body was completely covered in a sackcloth, holding a book.

- Who are you? - The frightened boy asked him. -

-Someone who knows exactly what is happening to you, and who is going to help you. You only have to go to this place, they will give you what you want in exchange for joining them. - He answered without letting him see his face, although he pointed at Hank's back with one of the long sleeves of his tunic. -

As the astonished boy looked, he saw a normal street, leading to some sort of warehouse that appeared to be in ruins. The next words he heard from the stranger were.

-Go there, when they ask you, tell them that you can give them information about the sun warrior and the traitors. They will listen to you. I will put the right words into you. Tell them who you are and what you want, in return, they will offer you a deal. Take it if you want to keep that girl for yourself, leave it if you'd rather she stays with that guy. How you act will determine your success. - He sentenced. -

Hank looked at that place still undecided, he wanted to turn and ask the hooded man.

-Yes, but I don't know...

However, he could no longer see him, nor was there any trace of the place he had entered. Now he was in that street on the outskirts. That warehouse awaited him. Still hesitating, he walked towards it and knocked at the door. A rough voice answered him.

- Who are you?

           He answered as the mysterious fellow indicated. To his astonishment, the door was opened and with visible interest an individual, also covered by a robe, invited him to enter. He passed into a room with a bed that seemed to be quite comfortable, while he heard the man who had opened the door call out to someone.

-My lady Seroa, here is a boy who claims to know how to defeat our enemies....

Hank didn't have to wait long, after a few moments a beautiful, statuesque woman of medium height and blonde hair entered the room. Though the young man was shocked to see that this individual's eyes glowed ruby red. She smiled, showing a pair of elongated fangs as she asked him.

- What do you know about it, boy?

-I know how to destroy your enemies, and I also know that your companion is conspiring to betray you. - He replied with no idea what he was saying. -

His interlocutor's expression became perplexed. Now she opened her mouth in astonishment, finally able to ask in a stupor.

- Who do you mean?

-ILaya. - He replied without thinking, in fact, he had no idea who that person might be, but he continued nevertheless. - And that human she's watching... If you want to know more in return... I want..." - He hesitated and swallowed saliva, despite all the fear that this situation inspired in him, that woman was very beautiful and she was very hot. He couldn't help but want her. - To be affectionate with me, very affectionate. - He was finally able to say, his voice cracking with a mixture of shyness, fear and lust. -

- Is that all you want? - She smiled lasciviously now, to add. - You have no idea what I am... you risk ending badly, but it will be easy for me to comply with your request.

-You're a she-devil, aren't you? - he replied, not knowing where this information came from either. Nevertheless, gaining in confidence, he let himself be led to add. - And you don't want to hurt me, or you'll lose the information I have.

-Wow, I'm impressed. - But it's true, I wouldn't want anything bad to happen to you. I will be careful with you.

And with that said, she began to strip off the tight black bodysuit she was wearing, which showed off her charms very well. Then she took off the pair of high boots of the same dark colour she was wearing, standing completely naked before him. Hank remembered now, smiling lustfully, how that she-devil had given him the best afternoon of pleasure of his life. That time had been followed by several others. And the best part was that she assured him that, once he had copulated with a succubus, he would be able to seduce any human woman he set his mind to. He told her that he wanted Beruche for himself. That she was the woman he had chosen to be his wife.

- Nothing easier than controlling that fool! - Seroa laughed when they were both lying on the bed after having had these relations. - And for my part, I thank you for the information. So ILaya and that idiot human are planning to run away together. Wow, who knew about her? I'll deal with that in due time. And you, don't worry, as you have more interesting information, my superiors have ordered me to welcome you to our group. As for that human, she'll be yours if you know how to play your cards.

Hank smiled enthusiastically at that promise. So now he shouted, emboldened.

- Bertie, I'll make you enjoy yourself like no one else ever has! I'm so much better than that pathetic Malden.

This took the girl by surprise at first, and then filled her with indignation. She couldn't help but retort.

- Don't you ever dare compare yourself to him! Roy was a great guy, he put the lives and safety of others before his own. Unlike you, who only looks out for your own desires.

- How easy it is to censure me, he had it all! He was what every girl admires. Tall, handsome, with muscles!... A cheap flirt who never missed a chance to make fun of me. - Hank replied, annoyed now to add with glee. - But where is he now, eh? Underground, and look at me. Next to those who are going to rule the world.

-I didn't like Roy for his physique alone, it was his heart that made me fall in love with him. - a now furious Bertierite confessed, adding in dismay. - And you weren't a bad boy, but you've been corrupted. You must realise it or it will be too late.

-I've realised, I've seen where power and victory lie, don't be a fool, take my advice and join the winning side!

More and more demons landed next to them, forming a large group that looked between curious and full of brutal desire to kill, to the building that the Justicieras were guarding. Cooan watched with a mixture of rage, fear and concern, then shot a pleading glance at Bertie. Her sister, though, smiling slightly, calmed her down to declare.

-That boy has gone mad. We can't trust her, and I don't think his word will keep those demons at bay for much longer. But at least we're buying time until our sisters and Tom can come. I'm really playing a game of chess against him, but not with pieces.

-Be careful. If he gets too angry. - A frightened Cooan sighed, watching the ever-growing group of infernal beings. -

To her astonishment, though, her companion laughed briefly with a hint of bitterness, and then said.

- What do you think that idiot could do to us that would be worse than what those monsters already want to do to us?

The sound of children approaching the door and windows distracted them for a few moments. Many were mumbling in disbelief; others were crying or covering their faces. Cooan immediately addressed them in a loving and reassuring tone.

-Nothing will happen to you. We are the Justicieras warriors of the moon, and we are here to protect you.

- There are so many of them! - A frightened little boy whimpered. -

-They're going to eat us. - Another little one sobbed. -

-They're not, they're cowards. - Bertie then replied, who, making a snowball of snow between her hands, sentenced. - Especially that one over there.

And pointing at Hank, she threw the ball at him, hitting him full in the face and exclaiming in amusement.

-This is the only thing you're going to get from me. Enjoy it and cool off a bit while you're at it!

The man wiped the snow off his face with a furious gesture. How dare that bitch! She had ridiculed him in front of his own soldiers. He could even hear some laughter among his own ranks, as well as from the children and those two girls.

- No!" - he spat. - I was wrong; you are no better than the others. You're just like that bunch of stupid sluts who were having fun taunting me. Like that bitch Sophie. You know? I gave her what she deserved before she came.

- What? – A frightened and stupefied Beruche exclaimed now. - Sophie? What did you do to her?

-She didn't want to give me what I wanted either, but I got it anyway, then I left her to my boys..." - his companion said with a tone full of imposture glee. -

That sounded so terrible that both girls put their hands to their mouths. At last, Cooan responded defiantly.

- When we're done with you, you'll be begging to go back to being a simple, pathetic freak!

- A pathetic freak," - he howled, broken with rage, and then shouted.-  "Well, this freak prophesies it to you. You will all die! Do you hear me? I will give my soldiers the order to attack, they will kill you and do everything you can imagine and what you can't, with you and those brats you have in there.

A group of little ones who had laughed when the Ice Lady hit the man with that snowball, were trembling with fear and crying now. But Bertie immediately hugged two of them, and also said gently to the others.

-He talks a lot and does nothing. You'll see.

And raising her tone, she stood before the door, displaying her sword, along with Cooan who covered it, aiming her flaming bow at the enemy. Then the Ice Lady exclaimed.

- We are the Justicieras, the warriors of the Moon! Protectors of the innocent and the weak!

-And in the name of justice and the moon, we will punish you! - Cooan re-joined, who, smiling, mused to her sister with complicity. - I confess I've always wanted to say it.

-You will be ours. - A guttural voice from one of the demons replied. -

-If you want us, come and get us! - Bertie challenged him, generating an icy wind that began to cover the door with frost. - If you dare, here we are, and here we wait for you!

That was the trigger, howling and screaming, many of these nightmarish beings charged into the school. The Fire Lady began to shoot incessantly with her bow, a multitude of fiery arrows smashed into numerous demons and exploded them. The Ice Lady was not to be outdone and bombarded many of these monsters with high velocity frozen crystals, causing the destruction of several of them.

- Sellatus est! - Cooan exclaimed, placing a piece of paper on the door before closing it. - Here we go," - She harangued her sister, who nodded. -

       The two had just enough time to bar the doors and windows. Using simple spells like that or holy papers that would repeal the demons, at least for a while, and also in a physical way, with some of the furniture they had on hand.  The children celebrated with shouts of joy at this promising beginning. They had been taken aback by the flurry of attacks and had slowed their advance for the time being.

-Children, you take up positions behind the tables and chairs," - Cooan instructed them. -

             They had formed a makeshift barricade to keep the little ones as safe as possible. However, none of them doubted that this fragile protection would not last for long. However, it was all they had.

-Stay as still and quiet as you can. - Bertie advised them, sounding confident and optimistic as she said. - We'll take care of those monsters.

              Outside, Hank was filled with anger and frustration. He no longer cared what happened to Bertie. He had tried to be nice to her, to convince her in nice ways. But without sounding weak in front of his troop. In fact, what he'd told her wasn't entirely true. He had gone with many of those demons to other places, spreading chaos and death. But his superiors assured him that the Earth had to be purged of the weak. Then, when he arrived at a rather modest apartment building, he found Sophie there. The girl was terrified like the rest, though at the sight of him she smiled in relief for a few moments. Two monsters were licking themselves lasciviously after having cornered her against a wall. She could only mutter pleadingly.

-Help me!

Hank wanted to, but one of the nightmarish creatures looked at him sullenly and threatened him.

-Human, you haven't missed anything here. This female is for us.

-I don't want you to harm her. - He dared to reply, feigning bravery even though he was terrified. - Your masters have promised me....

-They promised you a female, the one you chose. - The other demon replied mockingly, and then finished off. - And it's not this one here. Though you can watch what we're going to do to her or be on your way.

The boy looked down, there was nothing he could do for the wretch. Still, Sophie pleaded with a voice broken by anguish and a glazed look of terror.

- Please!

He dared not look at her, turning away from the room and barely wanting to hear the wretch's heart-rending cries of agony.

-I'm sorry for you, but that's the way life is. - He thought now. -

Then, a human-looking demon wearing some kind of armour with a trident addressed him, snapping him out of those brutal memories.

-You must go to the city centre. The master, Wiseman, has arranged for you to perform a task of the utmost importance.

-But. - He wanted to reply. -

      But that fellow stopped him with a gesture to declare somewhere between a warning and a threat.

-The Wiseman does not like it when his orders are not obeyed.

-I am protected by the succubus Seroa. - He rebutted, wanting to show reassurance. -

Although his interlocutor then laughed, leaving him astonished, and then informed him.

-If I were you, I would find another protector. Seroa has been eliminated by a traitor. So, if you want to keep your privileges, human, I suggest you obey the Great Wiseman's orders without question.

The boy nodded. Bertie and Connie were already lost anyway. They would suffer a fate similar to Sophie's. Soon, many more would follow. Soon, many more would follow in their torment. So he took one last look at the building, now besieged by a horde of demons trying to force their way in. Still, he couldn't help but feel a little sympathy for these two, he had to admit, they were brave. Indeed, some icy bolts of lightning or arrows of fire were still coming out of slits in the windows or the wall, destroying a considerable number of the attackers.

-I go at once, the master commands and I obey. - He affirmed. -

               And he walked away from there. Meanwhile, inside the building, the girls were still fighting fiercely. They didn't know how much longer they would be able to hold out, but they were going to sell their lives and those of the poor children in their care dearly.

-Our sisters and Tom, they will come. - Cooan said as she fired once more with her bow. -

-That's right. – Bertie agreed, adding, as she sent them a new signal on her communicator watch. - They will not abandon us.

            And they had no time to lose either. Tom, along with Petz and Karaberasu, (who, to her sister's logical concern, insisted that she was still fit to fight), set off.

-If you feel tired, you can stay somewhere safe. - The worried boy insisted. -

-And miss the spree? How little you know me! - The questioned girl was able to smile faintly. -

-Let's go now. Our sisters need us. - Petz declared, who, like Karaberasu, had received a distress call on the intercom. –

             The two set off. Tom nodded, following them armed with his impressive katana and his spells. They had arranged with the warriors to meet at the school where Bertie and Cooan were teaching in order to protect the children and then go to the moor. When they didn't see their friends show up, they decided to go to the agreed place. The sailors, beset by an ever-increasing stream of enemies, had to break through after considerable effort and evade the demons to get to the rendezvous.

-It will be impossible to get to the rendezvous point. - Ami commented, consulting her visor device. -

-We have no choice but to go to the place where Roy was killed. - Mamoru commented in his Tuxedo identity. -

-But, that's leaving our friends to their fate. - Minako objected. -

-There's no choice now. We have to stop that monster as soon as it returns. - Rei replied, not without consternation. -

-That's right. I'm sorry. - Usagi agreed. -

The others looked at each other with regret, but they couldn't do anything else. So that's where they headed. At that place, Nagashel and his commanders were chatting nonchalantly after having materialised there.

- Here I am again, this time nothing and no one can stop us from accomplishing our mission. - Declared the powerful demon, addressing his commanders, who answered him. -

- I, Gengenel, leader of the first horde of anti-virtue demons, will mercilessly destroy all the enemies of my lord and master.

- I Gergel, leader of the fourth Horde, will plunge this world into utter chaos and horror.

- I Aspiez, commander of the third horde, will gleefully sacrifice the lives of the innocent to the delight of my lord.

- I Nemarash, leader of the sixth horde, will sow the seeds of hatred and rancour everywhere.

- Well done my loyal commanders! - The pleased Nagashel howled - strive to fulfil your mission with the utmost efficiency and brevity and you will be well rewarded when the Master arrives.

- Yes, master! - they all replied in unison with a bow to their boss. -

At the same time the army of demons filled the place. The Moon warriors felt powerless to stop them all and part of the evil horde took flight ready to spread horror and annihilation.

- We must attack them with all our might. - Sailor Moon said, trying to take charge of the situation. - Most of them are still grouped together. We will cause them greater damage.

- That would be suicidal. - Rei objected, but she rectified herself, exchanging nods with her other companions to finish off. - But this is about the future of the world, we have no choice. Usagi, this time I agree with you, let's attack! - she harangued, and they all braced themselves by concentrating their energies. -

-Yes, with everything we've got. - The Jupiter Warrior added. - Before they run away.

-I was looking forward to some action. – Sailor Venus commented with a fleeting smile. -

-Enemy detected. I confirm that they have taken a course towards us. - Ami reported after consulting her visor and mini-computer, warning the group. - Be ready to attack...

Full of courage and determination, they set out to try to stop the countless mass of demons. The group of female warriors consisted of ten, counting Tuxedo and the sailors from the outer solar system who had joined them as reinforcements. Certainly far fewer in number than the tide of their enemies. But by concentrating their powers, they unleashed an attack that initially devastated the ranks of the less powerful and closer demons. However, many others, stronger, immediately struck back, driven by a bloody fanaticism, eager to vanquish them, kill them, tear them apart and worse. Soon the warriors and Tuxedo were surrounded by an overwhelming mass of far superior enemies and had to fight for their lives. They made a covered circle in a hollow in the terrain that offered some protection from the enemy's lightning blasts.

- Burning Mandala! - Rei exclaimed, knocking out three demons that were dangerously approaching from her right. -

- Venus Therapy Kiss! - Minako seconded her, destroying two more that were coming from in front of her position.

Tuxedo fended off another with a swing of his staff and stabbed it with a rose that blew it apart. He was followed by Sailor Jupiter, exclaiming as she launched her spinning attack.

- Oak Revolution!

In doing so, she took out four more demons coming from the rear. But that was almost a lost battle, as soon as Ami fired her Aquatic Rhapsody and Usagi her Rainbow Attack, eliminating several more enemies, another wave of demons arrived. This time it was up to their newcomer companions, the warriors from the outer solar system, to take out these new adversaries. But once again, another new line of demons was on the attack. They were all exhausted, some of the girls were even badly wounded, but they were holding their own. They had managed to get within a few hundred metres of Nagashel and his commanders and they were not about to give up now, but the latter, far from being the least bit worried about them, watched the fight with indifference.

- My lord, why don't we finish them off? - Aspiez asked. -

-Bah!" - His companion Nemarash interjected with a sneer. - They are just scum, let our subordinates take care of them, they also have the right to have some fun.

- But I want to have fun too," - Gergel objected. - "I'm getting bored here.

Nagashel motioned for him to shut up and replied with a thoughtful and astonished expression.

- I feel five great forces approaching, with one standing out above the other four. So don't worry, you will soon have a chance to fight. Then it will be time to summon the master.

At that moment Roy and his companions were perched on the moor, only a few dozen metres away from their enemies. Both groups studied each other, staring at each other. The terrible, evil expressions of the demons were counterbalanced by those of their rivals. The gazes in the eyes of the newcomers seemed steely and their wills remained unwavering. That message was very clear. These fighters were silently shouting to their enemies that they were not afraid of them and were eager to destroy them. The mighty demons took up the challenge gladly and then, without a word, both sides began to exchange bolts of energy. They tested their defences as they repelled each other's attacks with force fields. In the meantime, the din of the fight had been interrupted in the area where the female warriors and Tuxedo were entrenched. Their attackers were very curious and fascinated to see their masters fight and retreated to the immediate vicinity of this incipient battle as if they were spectators at some sporting event. None of their bosses or any of Roy's group paid any attention to them. They were just engaged in their particular give and take until, after a few moments, there was a pause and Nagashel took the floor.

- I thought I killed you! - he shouted at Roy as he recognised him. - But now you won't be so lucky!

- We'll see about that! - The boy responded with a tinge of stern defiance in his voice. -If none of my friends finish you off, it will be my pleasure to eliminate you personally.

- I'd like to see that! - Nagashel laughed who seemed to be having fun with it and proposed. - How would you like a single combat? My warriors against yours, one on one, and you and me for the end, of course. I await your response.

The questioned man looked at his companions and one after the other they nodded. Each was eager to test himself personally in a good fight.

- We agree! - Roy shouted in reply. -

Meanwhile, the sailors were grateful for the respite and the chance to tend to those in the worst condition. But once they knew of this challenge, they also watched with great anticipation. Their position was some three hundred yards away. They could barely see those who were facing the demons, but Sailor Mars sensed a very pure and tremendous force emanating from those five men. And with a flash of perception, she said to her companions in obvious amazement.

- Look, isn't that Roy talking to Nagashel?

Rei's companions who had met the boy looked at each other in disbelief until Sailor Mercury used her visor to enlarge the image and astonished confirmed.

- Yes, that's him!  But did you notice the people with him? - She adjusted the image and looked at the rest of the group, exclaiming even more astonished. - It can't be possible; I'm looking at Prince Diamond! But it doesn't look like him. He's much stronger and he's wearing a goatee," - she grinned and then listed. - "And his brother Sapphire and Ail and even Nephrite are there!

As the others sharpened their vision and Sailor Moon was able to summon some of her power to pull out binoculars which she passed on to the others, Jupiter added in disbelief.

- It's true!  And Sapphire's changed a lot too, he's got long hair and a beard!

- That's great! If they've come to fight on our side, we still have hope! - Minako exclaimed with great joy. –

               Sailor Moon smiled. Everything had gone as planned. Roy was back. Her friends had made it. When she had met Landar some time ago and met Son Goku, she had not had much faith at first. Then she saw that this strange individual, apart from being a great warrior, was a good guy and above all as hungry or more so than herself. But what she certainly didn't expect was for those four to reappear as well. It seemed that not everything was revealed to her. The truth was that, so far, she had fulfilled her part of the plan even better than she had imagined. Well, now it would be up to her and her people to help their allies to victory.

- Let's go! We're counting on you. - She thought with renewed optimism. -

-I hope they've had enough training. - Mamoru told her. -

-Hopefully, the fate of the world depends on it. We couldn't defeat those things on our own. - Usagi sighed. - At least not here...

Meanwhile, back at school, Beruche and Cooan had caught a break in their fighting. They were now trying to comfort the children in class by trying to keep the children quiet. The sky was clouded by the hordes of demons who were bringing down whole companies of demons on every place they passed to destroy it and kill its occupants. The Justicieras checked the barricaded doors and windows to secure them as best they could, tried to repair or plug a few holes in the wall, and set about reassuring the little ones.

- Your teachers have sent us to protect you." - Bertie explained. -

- And where are they? - One little girl, visibly frightened, asked them. - Did the demons kill them?

- No, they're fine," - Cooan replied softly.  - Don't worry about them.

Suddenly, the enemy resumed their offensive, the door burst into pieces after its protective seal was destroyed and a hideous demon entered, laughing macabrely. The children ran in terror in all directions and the merciless monster grabbed Sharon, who was petrified with fear.

- Help, Justicieras! - she was able to scream in her little childish voice full of terror and anguish. -

Without thinking, Beruche struck the demon with her sword, making him let go of the girl, and Cooan took aim with her bow and shot a fiery arrow at it. She calculated well and it took a direct hit and exploded. Meanwhile her sister hugged the little girl and moved away from the explosion with her.

- That's it, sweetheart. - The Ice Lady whispered affectionately, stroking her hair, - don't be afraid. We won't let any harm come to you.

The poor child clung to Bertie's neck, sobbing and trembling with fear, and the Justiciera felt genuine pity and indignation for the traumatic suffering the little girl was going through and for the dread felt by all the other children as well. So much so, that the Ice Lady did not even feel the wounds and bruises already on her body.

-Calm down Sharon. It's going to be alright. - She whispered as sweetly as she could after kneeling beside her. - We'll protect you, sweetheart. You and all your mates will be safe.

The poor child could barely speak... though now she looked up at the Justiciera with surprise on her little face to ask in a muffled, yet curious tone...

- How do you know my name?

-Because we fighters for justice have the wisdom of the moon. We know the names of all the good children. - Bertie smiled encouragingly at her and, after stroking her hair and cheeks, assured her once more. - "And we won't let them hurt you ever again. I promise you that.

                The child then gave a hopeful smile. But there was not much time for further conversation. Another pair of demons entered through the breach. Leaving the little one safe, they both fought them off. Beruche froze them and Cooan finished them off with her arrows, making them explode. The children cheered enthusiastically, but they did not know how long they would be able to withstand the onslaught of so many enemies. They exchanged worried glances and then the Fire Lady addressed the children in the most comforting and casual voice she could muster.

- Now, children, you must do as we tell you, OK?

The little ones listened to her very seriously and nodded their heads.

- You can go on that side. - Beruche intervened, pointing to a corner sheltered by the thick master wall. - And we'll pile up the benches and chairs so you can hide from those evil demons.

They had to change the position of the barricade they had previously set up because the wall behind it had been badly damaged. The enemy might be able to get in without them being able to fight back for fear of hurting the kids, so they cheerfully moved all those benches, desks and so on between the two of them.

- You stay there and leave them to us. - Cooan smiled encouragingly at them, between weary gasps. -We'll take care of them.

               The girl was really frightened and full of uneasiness, she was running out of strength, as was her sister who was now leaning against a wall, trying to get some air. But they could not allow the little ones to notice. Fortunately, children obeyed immediately. Taking advantage of the fact that their attackers seemed to have taken a lull to analyse the resistance coming from inside the classroom, the two Justicieras caught their breath a little and helped the little ones set up a more elaborate barrier of chairs, tables and anything else that could be used to crowd them in. Some of the children were very quiet, as if they couldn't quite understand what was going on. Others were even delighted by what seemed to them to be a kind of game, quite a few were also pouting or crying in fright. One of them, a little boy named Timothy, refused to go between the benches and babbled incessantly until Cooan lifted him lovingly in her arms and whispered to him, wiping away his tears.

- What's the matter, Tim?

- I... I want to go to my mummy! - he babbled disconsolately. -

- We can't leave now; we must be very quiet. - The Justiciera answered him sweetly. -

- I want to go home! - The child sobbed in response. -

Cooan sighed, not knowing what to do. She then used the pedagogical tricks she had studied during her degree to deal with such cases. With a smile she asked for the help of some of the other livelier children and asked them to play a game with Tim. And that, incredible as it seemed, it did the trick. As soon as he was left with the others, ignoring his crying, and one of his classmates showed him his special marble, Timothy stopped crying and focused his attention on the toy. Both sisters allowed themselves to sigh in relief, though it would be short-lived....

- Hopefully the girls and Tom will be here soon! - Bertie mused. -

-I don't know if they've been able to join our friends. - Cooan commented quietly. -

None of them wanted to think of the terrible possibility that their sisters and friends had been the victims of these monsters. Far were they from knowing that, on the moor, a great challenge was about to begin. Ail volunteered for the first fight.

- Leave it to me, my friends. I'll take the first one, I'm looking forward to it. - He insisted, finally gaining the approval of the rest. -

On the other side Nagashel received the same proposal from Gergel and granted it with a nod. This demon, of great stature, with a wiry, bluish complexion, a mean look and long reddish hair, bowed to his chief, and stepped forward. Both advanced to an intermediate place. Ail still carried in his mind the last moments he had spent with Ann and their son, the little boy they had named Giaal. When they left Earth, with happiness and love regained, they travelled part of the galaxy in a state of hibernation until they reached a planet suitable for life. Here they were able to maintain their human forms and came to test the advantages of this condition, exploring the feelings they learned on Earth. As a result, Ann became pregnant and after a few months their baby was born. Ail was truly proud of the child. It was their child, truly theirs, and not a tree-born child like them. The tree had told them when they planted him there, it had endowed them with the ability to germinate on their own with a different seed, for the day when they would both understand the true scope of love, and so it was.

-Darling. - Ann said as she cradled her baby. - Now I understand how important love is.

-The sacred Tree taught us a great lesson, which we must never forget. - He agreed. - And we will pass it on to our child.

-I am so grateful to the sailors for giving us the chance to begin again. - His interlocutor affirmed as she watched the baby sleep with a tender expression. -

          Ail nodded, they were both very happy and thought about returning to Earth sometime to visit their warrior friends, but then misfortune struck. Those strange, alien-looking individuals dressed in something resembling the combat uniforms he wore in the sky and was now wearing. Though they only resembled Ail and the others in that respect. Their intentions were not exactly peaceful, and as soon as they appeared, and just for fun, they began to destroy the planet that was home to the family. Tremendous explosions thundered and Annie, with visible fear and unease, commented to him.

-We'd better leave. We can't stand up to them, not with Giaal.

-You go with our son. I'll keep watch and watch your back. Whoever they are, they look powerful and would probably catch up with us.

-But I can't leave you alone. - The young woman objected, full of concern. -

-You have to, for Giaal. - He said, smiling now with a more conciliatory tinge to add. - Don't be afraid. As soon as I am sure we are not being followed, I will catch up with you.

                So, despite his companion's protests, he sent her away with the baby while he tried to reason with the beings. At least he would try to give Annie some precious time to get to safety with the child. Unfortunately for him, these individuals did not listen to his arguments and attacked him. Ail defended himself as best he could but these guys were far more powerful than him or any of his cards and beat him mercilessly to death. On the verge of death however he could see Ann fleeing with Giaal. She went back to Earth in search of her friends to ask for help. Ail knew that if she could reach them, the baby and her companion would be safe. Then everything went black and she reappeared in a vast, pristine confine. There he met Landar, Goku and Piccolo, who explained to him that he was dead but that he would have a chance to revive if he agreed to right any wrongs he had committed in the past. Ail agreed, he had every reason to want to. He also met his other companions Nephrite, Diamond, Sapphire and then Roy. At first there was mistrust between them, but later, when they became acquainted with each other's destinies, they felt that they had something in common. Possibly a desire to go back and start afresh, leaving their mistakes behind them and making amends for their wrongdoings as far as possible. And there he was now, walking quietly but attentively towards his enemy. He felt ready for action, although, as Goku explained, he did a quick warm-up. He finished just as he was facing his opponent and greeted him with a confident smile, saying.

- Well, prepare to be annihilated, demon.

- You can't beat me, you wretch! - Gergel glared at him with a sinister smirk.  - Because we're going to fight on my turf?

Ail stood on guard ready for an energy attack, but his enemy cast a spell, creating a dimensional space that pulled the unsuspecting alien into it. The demon passed behind him with a triumphant gesture and the corridor closed.

- Damn it! - Sapphire mumbled with visible unease. - I don't like this at all.

- Don't be afraid, Ail will know how to defend himself," - Diamond declared reassuringly. - We must trust him.

Inside, in a dense space where thousands of wails echoed, the alien looked around, but could see no one, for all was darkness. Amidst the endless chorus he heard the mocking voice of the demon he could not see.

- Do you like my world? - he laughed mockingly. -I find it very cosy, I love to listen to the wailing of damned souls for all Eternity. I am a demon of chaos and everyone pales at the mere mention of my name. Now it is your turn to suffer. Ha, ha, ha!

-Oh, really? - his interlocutor responded mockingly, keeping his calm. - "I'm scare to death.

- I don't know about you are scared or not, but you're going to die for sure! - The demon replied by punching him in the stomach and face without his rival being able to see him. -

Ail acknowledged the attacks and stood on guard. He launched a succession of bolts of lightning blindly, in all directions. But they disappeared into the infinite blackness, seemingly hitting nothing. Gergel's laughter could be heard from all directions, further disorienting his adversary.

- Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha,! you stupid mortal, look at you, you're pathetic! You're helpless as a child. I have the upper hand here, I'll kill you and you won't even be able to see me, - to underline his assertion he struck his opponent's face again producing a wound that made him bleed from the cheek as he provoked him. - How do you like that?

The boy stepped back to take cover and tried to keep his cool and think of a solution as he said to himself.

-If I go on like this, I've lost the fight. It's true, he has all the advantages. I must concentrate and change tactics if I want to get out of here alive.

He remembered the teachings of Piccolo, Goku and Roy. In the Corner, during a tough training session, Ail was trying hard to beat his stern master, but to no avail. It seemed that Piccolo was even reluctantly dodging him, knowing the moves he would make...

- You're going to make me fall asleep! - the Namekian said to him, with derision. –

           The alien even tried energy beams, but it was impossible to hit his opponent. In the end, Piccolo extended one of his arms in an extraordinary way, grabbing his pupil by the neck and throwing him to the ground. After Ali crashed, he struggled to his feet, while his master landed...

-I will never... be able to even touch you. - He sighed between dejected and angry with himself, and then added in annoyance. - And this reaching out is not playing fair.

To his surprise, his stern teacher laughed out loud with his arms up in the air and soon replied, more scathingly.

-That's a good one! Now you're going to come out with rules for combat, do you think this is an Olympic competition? The only rule here is to survive. Go and ask the demons to play fair and maybe you'll manage to kill them, they will laugh to death!

The young man had to reluctantly admit that this was true. Then his instructor passed him a bean to explain in the meantime.

-You must adapt to any situation and be able to improvise. Turn an unfavourable scenario into one that is conducive to your interests. Otherwise you won't last long against these beings. They are not known for respecting rules and showing no mercy. Stay calm and clear-headed. Feel and act...quick as the light...serene as the sky.

-You're right. That's how I'll do it. - He promised ready to return to his training. - When the time comes, I won't let you down...

-You'd better..." Piccolo mumbled, crossing his arms to harangue him. - And now get to work!

               And the boy nodded. He remembered those lessons well. Now he wanted to keep his word to his teacher. He closed his eyes, which were of no use to him in this environment, concentrating on feeling the energy of his opponent and saying to himself mentally.

-We must be as quick as light and as serene as the sky!

- Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! -  Gergel laughed, unable to contain his guffaws of glee. - That's a good one, now you want to make it even easier for me, or don't you have the courage to meet death face to face? Never mind, I'm going to finish you right now. You won't care whether you look or not.

He prepared to attack, Ail felt the demon's energy approaching, he concentrated and managed to dodge his attack and then counterattacked with a blow that hit the face of his surprised adversary.

- Well, now we're even. - his rival smiled, adding with renewed confidence. - Even with your dirty tricks you can't beat me. And you dare to call me a coward, you who hide like a miserable rat! - He sentenced with the most offensive contempt he could muster. -What a disgrace! It's pathetic even for a ridiculous little devil like you.

- I don't need any tricks to finish you off! - Gergel shouted, falling for the provocation. -We'll go back to where we came from and I'll kill you in front of everyone. In one thing you're right, why do I have to kill you in the dark? It's really no fun if your friends are deprived of watching you die in terrible suffering. – Him enemy threatened him while opening a dimensional hole that he crossed, Ail went after him. -

They reappeared on the moor. Ail took the opportunity to take off his wrist bands and training jacket. The demon began to attack him, but his foe dodged him without difficulty, taunting him on top of him.

- What's wrong with you, buddy? - he said mockingly. - Can't you run anymore? - He counterattacked with a powerful energy beam, leaving his opponent badly wounded, who had neglected his defence, being blind with rage trying to hit him. -

Gergel, feeling in a very bad condition, stepped back and when he realised that he was defeated, he fled towards Nagashel.

- Please, help me my lord! - he begged, falling to his knees before him. -

But his master looked at him with contempt and angrily rebuked him.

- Shame on you, you fool! You are a demon of the sixth circle, vanquish your enemy or die! - he finally sentenced as a sharp ultimatum. -

             The demon, knowing he had no choice, bowed to his master. He was terrified, but he attacked his adversary with rage, hurling energy bolts at him, which he easily dodged.

-Well, now the tables have turned. Let's see how you like this! - The alien exclaimed, disappearing from the sight of the surprised demon and reappearing right next to him to knock him down with a punch. -

By the time his opponent was able to get up, Ail moved to counter-attack and with great speed, he repeatedly punched and kicked his foe, sapping his already weakened strength. Gergel could hardly move, and Ail did not want to miss the opportunity. He could not trust this demon who, desperate as he was, would surely attempt a suicide attack. So, concentrating his energy, the alien finished him off with a powerful bolt of lightning, exploding him. Satisfied and panting from the effort, he turned back to his group to the cheers of his companions.

- With this I have avenged myself and my family on all those damned demons, or whatever they were, who have made Ann and my son suffer so much. - He declared and then smiled a smile of joy and relief that he had succeeded. -

He clapped his hands with everyone in the style Roy had taught them. Nephrite passed him a bean and Ail took it on the spot.

- I'm as good as new," - he said euphorically as he felt his strength returning, asking enthusiastically. - "Leave them all to me!

- Wait a minute, stop there my friend! - Sapphire laughed. - You've had yours, now it's my turn. - And he resolutely stepped forward to back up his claim. -

On the other side, Gengenel stepped forward, clapping his fist on his master's chest and vowing to avenge the previous humiliating defeat. He obtained Nagashel's assent and made his way towards the arena. Another fight was in the offing. Meanwhile, in the city, Petz and Karaberasu were making their way as best they could, aided by Tom. They had engaged in fights against scattered groups of enemies whom, combining their lightning and weapons with the boy's skill and increased strength, they managed to defeat, albeit with manifest effort. They also had to hide when more demons arrived, eager to slaughter them, and were hidden behind some ruins when Kalie, exhausted by the overexertion she had to endure, commented with bated breath.

- We won't be able to get to the rendezvous point, there are too many enemies," - she said. -

- Yes, you're right. - Her sister agreed, sitting on a scrap of wall and leaning on her bloodstained javelin. - But what can we do? Hordes of those monsters are roaming around here, and they'll find us out eventually.

Tom, who had so far been recovering too, proposed.

- The school where your sisters and I are teaching is not far from here now. They sent out the distress signal some time ago, didn't they?

-That's right, and fortunately I think they're still holding their position. - My communicator watch is monitoring them," - Kalie said. -

- Well, that's the only place we can hold. They've probably barricaded themselves in there, and if we join forces we'll multiply our chances. - The boy commented. -

- That's true. - Karaberasu nodded and declared resolutely. -I'm ready. Let's go there!

- Yes," - Petz agreed with renewed optimism. - The demons seem to have scattered to look for us. Let's take the opportunity to get out now and hurry as fast as we can.

           But she immediately fell uncomfortably silent, as did Tom. Both realised that Petz's sister would not be able to follow them if they ran. That was a big problem, but Kalie, very much in one piece and plucking up her courage, answered him knowing full well what was going on.

- Don't worry about me, you two stay safe.

- Not at all," - her older sister answered. - I'm not going to leave you here alone, little sister. Now you're not going to be the only heroine in this story. – She declared, returning the phrase she had been holding for her for a long time as a debt of gratitude. -

- That's absurd, Petz! - she reproved, sentencing with dignity. - You will not risk your lives for me. I won't allow it.

- Don't talk back to me, that's what I'm your big sister for! - the other one said with a visible temper born of fear for Karaberasu, then added in a pleading tone. – Please, obey me without arguing, if only for once! Please!

Tom stepped in to break up the sterile argument and said more calmly.

- No one will have to sacrifice or be left alone. From here to the school there are many buildings, and they are probably in ruins. The demons will have passed that way by now. If we are cautious and hide well, we will reach the school without any problems. At the most, we can take out any straggling patrols. And I can conjure up some fog or use some spells to create false images to hide us. So let's get moving! - He harangued them. -

               Both sisters, happy not to have to choose their fate so dramatically, followed him. The boy covered their rear, swinging his sword at any demons that crossed their path, and as a martial arts expert, he did so with little noise and little to betray his presence. They also created smoke and illusions that distracted any of the creatures long enough for them to pass unnoticed. As a result, they were able to cover most of the distance without mishap. At least until they reached a clearing that stood between them and the school. It would be a couple of hundred yards, but for that distance they would be in open country. Still, they paused for a few moments among the ruins of a nearby caravan to survey the situation. They could see several demons trying to enter one of the classroom buildings, and it appeared that someone was effectively preventing them from doing so, as several of them hurried off, dodging bolts of ice and fire.

- Connie and Bertie are doing a good job. - Tom commented as he realised what was going on. -

- We'll have to join them! - Karaberasu encouraged. - We have to help them.

- But we must warn them first. - Petz objected, suggesting immediately. - They might think we're enemies and attack us. I'll contact them on the transmitter, we're close enough for it to work on a direct dial level.

                  In the meantime, Beruche and Cooan were parrying the attacks of the ever-growing groups of adversaries as best they could. They were really tired, but they could not afford to let their guard down. The gap in the outer wall was big enough for two demons to enter at once, and if they had not succeeded so far, it was because the girls were methodically annihilating them as they tried. However, this could not go on forever. They both looked at each other as if wondering what they could do. The children had long since dared not show their heads at the sound of the fighting and the howls of the beasts attacking them. Only the braver ones stood up and peered between the benches. And in this atmosphere of exhaustion and fear of carelessness came the message from Petz. The girls replied with renewed courage and offered them a covering fire. Cooan moved as close as she could to a partially barred window and through a tiny hole took aim with her bow. She told Tom and her other sisters that she would fire in cover at any approaching demons. Beruche meanwhile secured the door. At that moment, the enemy seemed to have retreated, either to rethink their strategy or to look for reinforcements. There was not a moment to lose! Petz, Karaberasu and Tom ran across the field. Kalie mustered all her energies to get as much speed as possible. With luck, they would make it in less than a minute. But they were only halfway across when a mob of bloodthirsty demons rushed at her.

- Shoot! - Beruche signalled her sister as she herself launched a volley of icy crystals to protect the left flank of her sisters and Tom. -

The Fire Lady took the right one and between them and Petz's electric shocks and Karaberasu's lightning bolts they managed to break through. Only a couple of demons reached them and Tom took care of cutting them in two with slashes of his sword. But just as the girls were entering he was hit by a ricocheting enemy lightning bolt that wounded his left arm. Screaming in pain and feeling a tremendous cramp, he went in and was immediately helped by Cooan.

- Are you all right, Tom? - she asked, visibly frightened. -

- Yes," - he was able to reply, playing it down despite being in a great deal of pain. - It didn't hit me squarely and it's not the arm I use the sword with. Don't worry, I'll be able to keep fighting.

- Just rest for now and we'll bandage it. We'll be able to keep them at a distance, so you won't need to fight right away. - Beruche intervened. -

Petz took over for Cooan, though she was also exhausted, her great strength allowing her to guard the breach while her sister tended to the boy. For the moment, though, the demons seemed hesitant to attack. Now their enemies were reinforced and they did not know the extent of their wounds, added to that was the fact that they had suffered many casualties and none wished to be next. Therefore, their prevention and the truce they made due to their own bewilderment gave the girls and Tom a few golden minutes to at least manage to catch their breath a little and plot a strategy.

-We have to economise our efforts. - The boy told them. - We can take turns. I've learned a few spells to try to slow them down.

-Yeah, like the ones you used to protect us from their energy beams. - Petz thanked him. - I'm sorry they got you in the end.

-I'm still a long way from being a top wizard. - Tom smiled, trying to add some humour. -

-You need to rest now. - A restless Cooan begged him, finishing bandaging his wound. -

The boy smiled again, caressing the cheek of his requested caregiver. She returned the same expression, they looked at each other intensely and couldn't help but blush at each other.

-For the moment, let's pray that they stay still for as long as possible," - Bertie replied, pulling them out of the awkward moment. -

              So, they all wished. For their part, the sailors and Mamoru continued to form a defensive circle as they watched the fighting. For the moment, the demons were watching with interest, giving them a much-needed respite as well. Great was their joy when they saw Ail emerge victorious. Now Usagi thought back to the moment when they all prepared to leave together, bidding farewell to Annie.

-You would have been very proud of him if you had seen him. - She smiled, remembering. -

              The ten warriors had gathered at the Hikawa Shrine. After making introductions with the young alien girl who was unfamiliar with the guardians of the outer solar system, it was Mars who stepped forward and said to her, with a tone of humour.

- This Yuuichirou is always so timely! He had to go to see his parents just yesterday. My grandfather is not here either. As usual, they leave all the work to me. I have no choice but to ask you to do me a favour. Take care of the shrine until I return. Will you do it?

-Of course, Rei. Whatever you ask of me. - Her interlocutor, who was carrying the baby, assured her. -

During those days Annie had done her best to repay her friends for the generosity with which they had treated her and her child. She helped with the housework, and with her fortune-telling skills she was even able to read the coming of some visitors. She even offered wholeheartedly to accompany the sailors, saying.

-I have powers, and I still have some of the deck of cards you faced, remember? Although now my cards could fight on your side and not against you.

-Thank you very much Annie, but it's not necessary. - Ami smiled at her. -

-You have a little boy to take care of. - Makoto reminded her, smiling as she gave the baby a cuddle. -

-And, just in case, we could use someone like you here. If the enemy showed up, you could protect the people. - Rei added emotionally. - Please... if anything should happen to me, take care of my grandfather and Yuuichirou.

She nodded, hugging her benefactor. Then she took her little boy in her arms. Those words almost brought tears to her eyes, but she quickly pulled herself together, affirming with conviction to the approval and grateful looks of her interlocutors.

-I know it will be all right. You are the Warriors of Justice, you are invincible, I believe in you.

-Thank you, my friend. - Usagi smiled affectionately at her. -

-Take care Annie, stay safe with your baby. Luna and Artemis will stay with you to help you. - Mamoru told her, already in his Tuxedo identity. -

The young girl nodded, smiling at her friends. The cats then approached, wishing the group good luck as well. The members of the group shook hands in a circle with the master of the mask in the centre. After a short while they invoked the power of their planets and disappeared.                   Sailor Moon came back to reality after these memories, now looking out over the battlefield. Both she and her companions had burst into exclamations of joy at the victory of Annie's partner - if only she knew he was alive, here and fighting so bravely against evil! If only things could go on as they were going. For the moment, even they themselves could rest in relief at the sort of respite their enemies had given them. But unfortunately that was not going to last for long. Nagashel noticed that the humans were recovering and wanted to finish them off by trying to demoralise his own opponents as well. The demon then ordered the horde of his troops to attack and they obeyed instantly, rushing like a roaring mob to annihilate their enemies. Neither Roy nor the others could intervene, for then Nagashel's demons, and Nagashel himself, would have attacked the sailors and Mamoru, finishing them off before they could be protected. There was only the possibility that the boys could defeat their opponents in the fights, perhaps in this way the other demons would slow down their advance. So, the second confrontation was about to begin. In the meantime, the sailors and Mamoru prepared to hold back the great wave of bloodthirsty foes that seemed to have no end and was rushing roaring and terrible towards them.

-They are coming in great numbers. - Sailor Uranus warned. -

-Stand ready to hold them back. – Sailor Pluto indicated in turn as she swung her sceptre. -

- Ready, girls? - Tuxedo asked, glancing sideways at them as he awaited the arrival of his enemies. -

-We always are. - Rei smiled fearlessly. -

- Let's get this party started! - Makoto agreed, clenching her fists, and getting into position. -

-Let's form two lines. - Ami explained. - Now all attack from the same direction. - Let's respond in relays...

-Yes, one line attacks, one line waits and then takes its place. - Minako understood. - We can catch our breath.

- Exteriors in front with me, interiors and Tuxedo ready to relieve! - Usagi ordered. -

And they all obeyed with alacrity, just in time to meet the arrival of the first enemy...

**START**