The Great Log Posting: Arc III

[Halbarad]

[12:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> Luna and Artemis soon join the other girls, courtesy of a quick drive by. Haruka sleeps for over three hours, the time creeping by as she rests and recovers. Come lunchtime, at least, you have food brought up. Her aura is fine, but her body seems to still be healing.
[12:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nervous waiting has given way to a bit of boredom now, everyone waiting on the blonde before they can do much besides speculate.
[12:17] <Rei-chan> "Hey, Ami, now that you know the sword Talisman belonged to Sailor Uranus, can you search on the computer for a mirror or staff belonging to any of the other senshi?" Rei asks as she waits.
[12:17] <Usagi-chan> "Wait... a staff?" Usagi looks up.
[12:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods, getting into it right off the bat. "Sure thing, Rei," she smiles.
[12:18] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, that was one of the other Talismans I saw in the dream," Rei says to Usagi.
[12:18] <Rei-chan> "Can you remember something?"
[12:36] * Usagi-chan furrows her brow for a minute. "Didn't Sailor Pluto have a staff when we saw her back in December?"
[12:37] <Rei-chan> "Yeah..." Rei looks thoughtful before breaking out into a grin. "Then I guess that means Germatou will never get the Holy Grail - there's no way he'd ever find Pluto to get it if she does have a Talisman." She shakes her head, "Kinda weird that this all ties in with the Silver Millenium, though..."
[12:38] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, it is... maybe we should check the library for something about the Talismans or the grail?" Usagi looks up.
[12:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami nods. "I can do that," she confirms. "While my computer works on the readings."
[12:41] <Rei-chan> "Might be a good idea," Rei nods. "I guess the mirror most likely belonged to either Saturn or Neptune... and if it's Neptune then it might as well be gone."
[12:41] <Usagi-chan> "I can take you up as soon as we get things settled with Haruka." Usagi nods. "And maybe even help out some."
[12:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis nods. "Usagi, if the mirror belonged to Neptune..." he trails off, leaving the meaning clear to you.
[12:44] <Usagi-chan> "I know..." Usagi frowns. "But what does that mean when I finally decide?"
[12:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Perhaps that person will inheirit the Mirror?" Luna suggests. "Or have it in their Pure Heart then?"
[12:45] <Usagi-chan> "I guess we'll find out..." Usagi says with a frown.
[12:45] <Rei-chan> "So the mirror would be tied to Neptune's transformation pen, then?" Rei asks, "Or maybe Pluto's holding onto it and will hand it over when Usagi picks someone - if it is Neptune and not Saturn it belonged to."
[12:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It might be... if it's not Saturn's," Artemis agrees. "And..." he frowns, looking to Luna. "How much do you think Setsuna is holding back this time?"
[12:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> Luna frowns as well. "It would explain the timing of giving Usagi the Neptune Pen," she murmurs, thinking and scowling deeply.
[12:49] * Rei-chan frowns, "You think she saw all this coming?"
[12:49] <Usagi-chan> "I kind of wonder that myself..." Usagi frowns. "If it IS Neptune's mirror, and it's connected with the pure heart of Sailor Neptune, why not just leave the position empty? It's completely safe that way - if no one has it, no one can get it."
[12:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I wouldn't put it past her," Luna says, sighing to Rei.
[12:51] * Rei-chan frowns. "If the 3 talismans can summon the Holy Grail, and date from the Silver Millenium, there must be more to their purpose than just helping to get Pharaoh 90 here. Maybe the Holy Grail will be needed for something else - I mean, Pluto has her staff, and doesn't seem to be suffering the lack of a heart crystal, so maybe there is a way to get the Talismans without affecting the pure heart?"
[12:52] <Usagi-chan> "I guess that's possible," Usagi admits. "But what could it be needed for? That's the real question."
[12:53] <Rei-chan> "I'm sure Pluto would know," Rei sighs, "But if she's not available, the library is our best bet."
[12:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> "If it's an object of power," Artemis muses, "Maybe as a supplement to Sailor Moon... or as a replacement to the Crystal?"
[12:53] * Usagi-chan perks up at that. "It's that powerful?"
[12:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I don't think either of us know, but even if it isn't, it may not be a bad replacement," Luna comments, perking up a bit. "Now that I think of it, this is similiar to the Rainbow Crystal hunt, isn't it?"
[12:55] <Rei-chan> "It obviously has enough power that Germatou wants it," Rei says, before frowning. "How exactly does a daimon that Professor Tomoe accidentally summoned know anything about something from the Silver Millenium?"
[12:56] <Usagi-chan> "A little... except that we didn't have to kill..." Usagi trails off. "Could that be it? Do I need to heal them while their Crystals are out?"
[12:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That... I don't know," Luna sighs. "Another one in that column." Turning to Usagi, she nods. "It may be... perhaps you could try?"
[12:57] <Usagi-chan> "Let's wait to talk to Haruka first." Usagi nods. "I'd rather she knew what's going on before we try to take out her Heart Crystal again."
[12:57] * Rei-chan nods. "I'm fine with waiting a bit."
[12:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami, who has been typing away in the background, speaks up. "If the Heart Crystal IS the Talisman, I don't think it will do any good," she nods, "But if it's not exactly it, maybe that could separate them."
[12:59] <Usagi-chan> "If she's willing to let us try it again, I'll do my best." Usagi says simply.
[12:59] <Rei-chan> "I think it's likely that her talisman was hidden in her heart crystal when she reincarnated," Rei postulates, "I mean, back in the Silver Millenium she must have had the sword just as a belonging of hers like Pluto's staff. There's probably a way to separate them."
[13:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> An hour later... Professor Tomoe is back in the room, while Ami and the cats are off getting lunch. With a heady groan, Haruka stirs...
[13:02] * Usagi-chan quickly turns back to the blonde's cot. "Haruka? Are you all right?" she asks quickly.
[13:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Mmmmmmm..." she moans, her eyes opening slowly for a moment... then bolting wide open. With a surprising speed, she rolls off the cot, staggering back. Her eyes are angry now, even as a hand runs across her chest, where her Heart Crystal went in and out. Her gaze fixes on Professor Tomoe. "Damn you!"
[13:05] * Usagi-chan puts up her hands in a pacifying gesture. "Hold on, Tenoh-san! It's not what you think!"
[13:05] <Rei-chan> "We're sorry, Haruka-san, but we had to do it," Rei says apologetically.
[13:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Calm down, Miss Tenoh," Professor Tomoe says quickly. "We aren't trying to hurt you!"
[13:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Like I'm going to believe you," she says viciously, reaching into her pocket..."I won't let you make your Silence!"
[13:09] <Usagi-chan> "We're trying to STOP the Silence!" Usagi shouts. "Now will you just calm down a minute?"
[13:09] <Rei-chan> "Silence?" Rei repeats in alarm, "How did you even know about that?"
[13:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> Her words fall on deaf ears, however, drowned out by her own shout. "Uranus Star Power, Make UP!"
[13:11] * Usagi-chan simply gapes in astonishment as the girl transforms. "She knows already?"
[13:12] * Rei-chan steps back in alarm, before quickly putting herself between Usagi and Uranus. "Calm down, Sailor Uranus! We're on the same side!"
[13:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> Flashes of golden light encase the girl, her body momentarily floating an inch of the ground as achingly familiar waves of energy transform her. Sure enough, a second later the reborn Sailor of Uranus stands before you. Or more accurately... "World...SHAKING!" She wastes no time, lobbing her attack at the suspected Witch Rei!
[13:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:13] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[13:13] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+2
[13:13] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 12."
[13:13] <Rei-chan> do-over!
[13:13] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+2
[13:13] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 7."
[13:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> With a powerful block, Rei parries the flying, close range blast of energy into the wall, tearing out a hole into the hallway! The building shakes, true to the name, as the impact occurs!
[13:15] <Usagi-chan> "Stop this NOW!" Usagi shouts, and a flash of light blinds the occupants of the room as the Princess of the Moon Kingdom appears - a very angry princess, too.
[13:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6 (Burning 10 EP)
[13:18] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 (Burning 10 EP) and gets 7."
[13:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> Taken utterly aback by the appearance, Sailor Uranus does indeed stop, staring at the Princess...
[13:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That's enough, Haruka," Tomoe speaks up now that she looks to be momentarily stunned into calmness. "We aren't fighting for the Silence... not any more."
[13:21] * Serenity-hime crosses her arms, fuming at the senshi. "Do you ever stop to LISTEN?"
[13:21] * Rei-chan stays in front of Serenity, warily regarding Uranus for any further sign of hostility.
[13:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You're..." she trails off, eyes again agog at the sight of Serenity. "You are..."
[13:22] <Serenity-hime> "The Queen of the Moon Kingdom." Usagi finishes the sentence for her.
[13:22] <Rei-chan> 'She probably remembers you as a Princess,' Rei thinks.
[13:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I..." she sputters, her rage lost. "I remember you!" Haruka blurts this out, the words chasing on the tail of the last one.
[13:24] <Rei-chan> "So now do you believe us when we say we're trying to stop the Silence?" Rei asks.
[13:25] * Serenity-hime sighs. "I was Princess Serenity, yes."
[13:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> Turning to Rei, her gaze becomes frosty. "You're one of those Heart Stealers," she protests, her hands almost automatically falling into place for another World Shaking.
[13:26] <Rei-chan> "I WAS one of them," Rei insists. "I wasn't in control of my actions, then."
[13:26] <Serenity-hime> "She was." Serenity says sharply. "She's also Sailor Mars."
[13:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> A moment of conflict passes over Haruka, her eyes going away and to the floor. "That's... it."
[13:29] <Serenity-hime> "Are you willing to hear me out, yet?" Serenity sighs.
[13:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I... alright," she finally says, looking up at Serenity, her voice mixed with several dozen emotions.
[13:31] * Rei-chan relaxes. "Good. I don't want to fight another Sailor Senshi."
[13:32] <Serenity-hime> "The Witches who were involved in the Heart Snatches aren't anymore - Rei included. She broke out of Mistress 9's brainwashing and brought me and the other senshi here, and we purified everyone else. The reason we did what we did is because Rei had a vision that you might carry one of the Talismans - and we needed to know for sure so we could protect you if it was true."
[13:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I have a Talisman?!" she shouts, shocked for the fourth time today. "You know about the Talismans too? You..." The poor girl seems to be getting situationally overloaded already..
[13:36] * Serenity-hime gives the nearly-frantic senshi a sympathetic look. "Why don't you sit down, Haruka-san? I can promise you we're NOT going to do anything to you again."
[13:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> She does so, her ability to think and disagree rather compromised, all thinks considered.
[13:37] * Rei-chan nods, content to let Serenity do the talking, since she seems to be doing a good job.
[13:39] * Serenity-hime sits down on the cot next to Uranus. "Yes, you do have a Talisman. And no, we're not going to try to take it away from you - although we're trying to figure out a way we could get it out without having to take your Heart Crystal. But we'll be around to help you, no matter what - we're not going to let that stupid Germatou get his hands on it."
[13:40] <Rei-chan> "It's a sword that probably belonged to you back in the Moon Kingdom and just got hidden in your heart crystal when you reincarnated, so there's probably a way to do it safely," Rei puts in.
[13:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods numbly, her arms hanging limply at her sides as her brain works quintuple overtime.
[13:41] * Serenity-hime smiles slightly, putting a hand on the girl's back. "It'll be okay."
[13:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes, we're fighting to ensure that Germatou - the daimon behind all this - won't get any of the Talismans," Tomoe explains. "He won't lay a finger on you."
[13:44] * Rei-chan nods to that.
[13:47] <Rei-chan> 'Wait a minute... that attack she used... Hey, she must have been looking for the Talismans, too! She attacked me on a Heart Snatch once and checked out the Heart Crystal herself. No wonder she's surprised at having a Talisman inside her...' Rei thinks to Serenity.
[13:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> She shakes her head. "But I have to get the Holy Grail," she sighs, "And it can only be summoned with the Pure Heart Talismans," she notes.
[13:47] <Serenity-hime> "So you've been looking for the Talismans yourself?" Serenity asks.
[13:48] <Rei-chan> "What do you need the Holy Grail for?"
[13:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah," she nods. "My dreams... I keep seeing a red Silence in my dreams, and the only way to stop it is if I get the Holy Grail before they do," she says.
[13:51] <Rei-chan> "Well, we certainly do want to stop them getting the Grail, but if we're right, the only Talisman they could get is yours - the other two are totally inaccessible."
[13:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> Haruka hesitates. "But... I have to get it," she says, insistent. "Everything from my dreams..." even now, her voice is slightly ambiguous and bishonen, worry-filled or not.
[13:53] <Serenity-hime> "We'll find the others, don't worry." Serenity smiles. "And we'll see about getting yours out without doing any permanent harm to you, too."
[13:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> Silent, Haruka stares at the floor.
[13:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> Quietly, the door opens, Ami and the cats coming back in. They stop a moment at the seated Sailor, staring.
[13:56] * Rei-chan notes the cats. "Say, Haruka - how did you become Sailor Uranus to begin with? Did a talking cat give you your transformation pen?"
[13:56] <Serenity-hime> 'I'll explain in a little while, Ami. Haruka's... had a few shocks.' Serenity sends to the senshi of ice.
[10:17] <Anastasia> Ami nods, quietly walking over and to the side of the scene in front of her. Artemis and Luna, however, walk right up to the Sailor of Uranus. "Sailor Uranus?" Luna asks, inspecting the girl.
[10:19] <Anastasia> Looking up at the talking cats, Sailor Uranus starts again. "Talking cats...?" Strangely, she doesn't seem that surprised. "Mau?"
[10:21] * Serenity-hime nods. "How much of the... past do you remember, Haruka-san?"
[10:25] <Anastasia> "That's right," Luna smiles a bit. "We're Mau - Mooncats in the service of the Moon Kingdom," she says to the disoriented Sailor. "It's good to finally meet you, Sailor Uranus."
[10:26] <Anastasia> Haruka turns her gaze from the cats to the regal princess in front of her. "The past? I... see things in my dreams," she says.
[10:26] <Serenity-hime> "Like princesses and talking cats?" Serenity can't keep an edge of mirth out of her voice.
[10:27] <Rei-chan> "Is that how you first became Sailor Uranus?" Rei asks curiously, "Did your dreams tell you how?"
[10:29] <Anastasia> She nods. "About a year ago, I started dreaming... first of a kingdom on the Moon and a Princess, then of other things. One of the dreams... showed me how to become Sailor Uranus."
[10:29] * Serenity-hime glances over at Luna. "That's about the same time you awakened me."
[10:32] <Anastasia> Luna nods. "Quite a coincidence?"
[10:33] * Serenity-hime turns back to Uranus. "When did you first actually become a senshi?"
[10:46] <Anastasia> Haruka frowns, a memory visulizing in her head. "In December... I had a terrible dream..."
[10:47] <Serenity-hime> "December..." Serenity mutters to herself, a frown crossing her face.
[10:47] <Rei-chan> 'That was a busy month for us...'
[10:48] <Anastasia> "I had dreams of a terrible battle with a monster..." she whispers. "Every night, I dreamed that I was fighting it with someone, but she always died and I couldn't save her..."
[10:48] * Serenity-hime closes her eyes. "He had a sword, didn't he?"
[10:50] <Anastasia> "I don't know, it was always over so fast... it was like lightning." Haruka sighs. "Every time she died, my heart broke."
[10:50] <Serenity-hime> 'Oxyite, I bet.' Usagi sends to the other girls in the room.
[10:51] * Rei-chan has a sad expression as she nods minutely. 'No doubt.'
[10:51] * Serenity-hime gives Haruka a sad smile. "If it helps, Haruka-san, I can tell you that that monster is dead now."
[10:54] <Anastasia> A shiver passes over Haruka. "It is?"
[10:55] <Serenity-hime> "He is." Serenity smiles, rubbing the older girl's back gently. "We defeated him back in December, probably a little while after your dreams started."
[10:55] <Rei-chan> "He's gone forever," Rei says distantly, resting a hand over her stomach as she recalls the wounds she suffered in those two battles.
[10:59] <Anastasia> She smiles a bit, letting out a tense breath. "Good...."
[11:00] <Serenity-hime> "I think I can explain more about your dream later - if you want me to." She pats the tall girl on the back lightly, cheered to see her mood improved.
[11:01] <Anastasia> "Yeah." Haruka says.
[11:03] <Serenity-hime> "So... did you have any other questions for us?" Serenity asks.
[11:04] <Anastasia> "Quite a few," she says, "What was that monster from my dreams?"
[11:06] <Rei-chan> "His name was Oxyite - a very powerful pirate from the Silver Millenium," Rei sighs, "He was only imprisoned with the combined power of you and three other Sailor Senshi, but Sailor Neptune died in the battle."
[11:06] <Serenity-hime> "That's probably the person you felt die in your dream." Serenity adds.
[11:07] <Anastasia> "Oxyite... that's the bastard's name?" she asks, "And Sailor Neptune..."
[11:08] <Serenity-hime> "WAS his name. If you remember that 'terrorist attack' on the apartment building back in December... that was what happened when he died." Serenity sighs.
[11:10] * Rei-chan nods. "He took a hell of a beating, and nearly took us with him when he died, but we put him down," she says grimly.
[11:11] <Anastasia> "I remember that," she nods. "His death caused all that? How?"
[11:12] <Serenity-hime> "I don't know exactly, but I think it had something to do with the sword he had. It amplified his energy, and when we made him lose control of it, I think it just... exploded."
[11:12] <Rei-chan> "He built up so much energy during the battle, when he died there was no way to control it - it all got released in one huge blast," Rei nods in assent with Serenity.
[11:13] <Anastasia> "So that's it... and you're sure he's dead?"
[11:14] * Rei-chan nods. "There's no doubt about that."
[11:16] <Anastasia> "Then..." she breathes. "Only the Silence is left, then."
[11:17] * Serenity-hime nods. "And we're already doing everything we can to stop it."
[11:18] <Rei-chan> "Even if there isn't  much chance of Germatou getting the grail now, we still need to stop him, and save Hotaru," Rei puts in.
[11:21] <Anastasia> "Hotaru?" she asks, "Who's that?"
[11:22] * Serenity-hime looks up at the silent Professor. "Professor Tomoe's daughter - she's been possessed by Mistress 9, who's helping to try to bring about the Silence."
[11:24] <Anastasia> Breaking his silence, he speaks. "Yes. My daughter... is the vessel being used by Pharaoh 90 to try and enter this world," he confirms. "I was possessed, as was my daughter, and Mugen was used as a base of operations until last week."
[11:32] <Anastasia> "I saw dreams about Mugen as well... of Witches taking Heart Crystals, of Rei and others taking those Talismans before I could," she says.
[11:34] <Rei-chan> "I saw you before on one of my heart snatches," Rei puts in, grimacing slightly at the memory, "You nearly hit me with your attack and then went to examine the crystal yourself... but it happened so fast I never got a good look at you."
[11:37] <Anastasia> "Yes," she comments, "You and that red haired Witch, wasn't it?"
[11:38] * Rei-chan nods. "That's Eudial... I guess it explains why you seemed so unhappy to see me when Shiori-chan introduced us the other day..."
[11:39] <Serenity-hime> "So you two had met before?" Serenity looks between the two, slightly surprised.
[11:42] <Rei-chan> "Only briefly," Rei shrugs.
[11:47] <Rei-chan> 'Didn't I already mention that, anyway?'
[11:47] <Serenity-hime> 'I didn't THINK you had... guess I forgot.' Serenity thinks sheepishly.
[11:49] <Rei-chan> 'I guess it's not that important, just pay more attention in future, Dumpling Head,' Rei sends back without malice.
[12:03] <Anastasia> "Yeah, a friend introduced us," she comments. "Anyway...even the Witches are normal again?"
[12:05] * Serenity-hime nods. "I managed to purify all of them except for Rei and Eudial the weekend before last - and Rei and Eudial threw off the brainwashing on their own."
[12:06] <Rei-chan> "Now we're fighting to stop Germatou and Mistress 9," Rei adds.
[12:07] <Anastasia> "...Then... I guess that..." she says, half to herself.
[12:08] <Serenity-hime> "We're on the same side, Haruka-san." Serenity says with a smile.
[12:12] <Anastasia> She smiles. "Yeah... I never even thought about working with someone."
[12:12] <Rei-chan> "Haven't you even considered it?" Rei asks, "I mean, the Sailor Senshi are pretty famous now, didn't you think of trying to find us?"
[12:15] <Anastasia> She shakes her head. "No, I just... it was my problem to deal with, you know?"
[12:16] <Serenity-hime> "Well, you've found us now, and we can work together from here on out - that's the important thing."
[12:16] <Rei-chan> "I can sort of understand that," Rei nods, "But if it happens, the Silence will be everybody's problem. And we can accomplish a lot more if we work together."
[12:20] <Anastasia> She bows her head a moment, thinking. "I'd like that," she says, looking up at the Princess.
[12:21] * Serenity-hime leans over and gives the short-haired blonde a hug. "Well, we're really glad to have you with us now."
[12:22] <Anastasia> ---
[12:23] <Anastasia> With that, life again picks up at Mugen. Friday comes, and by this point Usagi is spending her days with various tutors drilling her in all subjects, from science to sociology.
[12:24] <Anastasia> It's 3 in the afternoon, so the end of the day is in sight. The student helping you, a pale-faced and mumbling boy who is a science geek, is going on about some principle or another..
[12:25] * Usagi-chan listens with half an ear, more attention on the clock than on the lecture.
[12:26] <Anastasia> "....Usagi...are..listening?" he mutters quietly, his eyes not meeting yours even now.
[12:26] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, I'm listening." the blonde says absently.
[12:27] <Anastasia> "G'day, then," he says, getting up.
[12:27] * Usagi-chan looks up in surprise. "We're done?"
[12:28] <Anastasia> "....yeah...." he says, walking away. "...time to go..."
[12:28] <Usagi-chan> "All right!" Usagi jumps up with a grin, stuffing her books into her bag.
[12:29] <Anastasia> Indeed, it's time to go.
[12:30] * Usagi-chan dashes out of the tutoring room with a grin. A quick stop in at the Witches office, and then it's WEEKEND TIME!
[12:37] <Anastasia> In there you find Ami, as per usual, and Cyprine. While Cyprine is napping, head on desk, Ami is reading. Nothing unusual, really.
[12:38] <Usagi-chan> "Hey, Ami-chan!" Usagi says quietly, not wanting to wake Cyprine. "What's up?"
[12:39] <Anastasia> "Hi, Usagi," she smiles, gently putting down her hardback book as not to disturb the other girl. "Just brushing up on my Literary Analysis."
[12:40] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Better you than me... have you seen anyone else this afternoon?"
[12:41] <Anastasia> "Rei's going to be a bit late," she shrugs. "And I saw Eudial and Tellu today. Otherwise, it's been quiet."
[12:43] <Usagi-chan> "Did she say why she was going to be late?" Usagi sets her bag down next to her desk.
[12:46] <Anastasia> "Something about a chemistry study period," she shrugs again, still speaking quietly. "Anyway..." she smiles, "Do you have any plans for this afternoon, Usagi?"
[12:46] <Usagi-chan> "Not really... maybe straightening things up a bit for the meeting tomorrow."
[12:49] <Anastasia> Getting up, Ami steels herself, still smiling. "I thought you might want to go to the mall, just Rei, you and myself."
[12:49] <Usagi-chan> "That would be cool - we haven't gone shopping in a while." Usagi smiles.
[12:50] <Anastasia> "Good... Rei should be here in a half hour or so," Ami replies, happy and showing it with a big a smile as she ever has.
[12:52] <Usagi-chan> "Enough time for a nap!" Usagi flops down at her desk, laying her head on the table. "That tutoring really wears me out."
[12:53] <Anastasia> Ami shakes her head, smiling at the antics of her Princess and friend. Usagi, for her part, falls right asleep...
[12:53] <Anastasia> ---
[12:53] <Anastasia> Rei - after an extra half hour of pain, aka Chemistry, you come away with a headache, but a greater understanding of the subject matter. That test should be doable soon.
[12:55] * Rei-chan feels rather drained, but only in the good 'I just worked really hard' way, not the bad 'the Dark Kingdom just stole my energy' way as she heads down to the Witches office to see if anyone else is still around today.
[12:56] <Anastasia> Entering, you see Usagi and Cyprine napping at their desks, while Ami reads another of her huge tomes...
[12:59] * Rei-chan smirks at seeing the two slumbering girls in the office. "I think this place needs a special napping corner," she comments, walking over to Ami.
[12:59] <Anastasia> She nods, smiling herself. "Between the two, I wonder if powerful magic requires extra sleeping time."
[13:00] <Rei-chan> "It would explain a bit," Rei says, taking a seat at her desk. "So, what's up, today?"
[13:01] <Anastasia> "Not much," she says, putting her book down quietly again. "Except some plans. Do you feel like going to the mall with Usagi and me?"
[13:01] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, sure," Rei nods agreeably. "Got anything in particular you're looking to buy?"
[13:03] <Anastasia> "Not really," she admits, "It's just something we haven't gotten to do in a long time now, is it?"
[13:05] * Rei-chan furrows her brow as she tries to recall the last time they did all go out together. "I guess you're right..." She stands up, "Oh, well, might as well get going, now," she grins, poking Usagi in the side.
[13:05] * Usagi-chan mumbles incoherently, shifting as she gets poked.
[13:06] <Rei-chan> "Wake up, Dumpling Head," Rei says while continuing to prod the blonde, though quietly as she doesn't want to disturb Cyprine.
[13:06] <Usagi-chan> "Just five more minutes, Mom..." she grumbles.
[13:07] <Anastasia> Cyprine, to her credit, naps away peacefully, unaware of any disturbance.
[13:07] <Rei-chan> "I'm not your mother, Usagi," Rei says, lifting Usagi's head from the desk and pinching her fingers over the blonde's nose.
[13:08] * Usagi-chan's face goes red as her air gets cut off. She comes wide awake a second later. "I'm up, I'm up already!" Batting Rei's hand away, she sighs. "And I was having such a nice nap, too..."
[13:11] <Rei-chan> "I'm sure going shopping with me and Ami-chan will be far more fun than napping," Rei says, before giving Usagi a teasing smile, "Unless you were dreaming about something... interesting?"
[13:11] <Anastasia> "She was probably dreaming of Tuxe..." Ami stops, her response showing it's age. "of dinner."
[13:12] <Usagi-chan> "Oh yeah, Ami-chan did say she wanted to do that..." Usagi smiles, then turns a frown to the genius. "Ha ha."
[13:12] * Rei-chan makes a face at Ami's slip.
[13:13] <Anastasia> "Sorry," she blushes. "Of Tuxedoess Kamen," she tries to patch up her slip.
[13:13] * Usagi-chan looks over at Rei. "In a tuxedo...? Nah." She giggles.
[13:14] <Rei-chan> "Can't have my wonderful figure hidden by such masculine clothes, can we?" Rei grins, still trying to recover her balance after Ami's slip.
[13:14] <Anastasia> Ami giggles a bit, still blushing.
[13:15] <Usagi-chan> "Anyway! To the mall, we've got serious business to attend to!" Usagi declares.
[13:15] * Rei-chan nods eagerly, "Right!"
[13:16] <Anastasia> Ami nods happily. "Let's go!"
[13:16] <Anastasia> ---
[13:17] <Anastasia> The mall is as you always expect, full of students and shoppers, a storm of people buying and chatting.
[13:18] * Rei-chan looks around, "So, which store do you guys want to check out first?"
[13:18] <Usagi-chan> "I'm up for whatever, as long as we can snag some food along the way." Usagi grins.
[13:19] <Anastasia> "How about clothes first?" Ami nominates, "Then some snacks?"
[13:19] <Rei-chan> "Works for me," Rei nods cheerily.
[13:19] <Usagi-chan> "Lead the way then, Ami-chan!" Usagi nods.
[13:20] <Anastasia> Smiling the entire way, you end up in a clothing boutique in short order. The racks of various summery and springy clothes are on display, the seasons turning.
[13:21] * Usagi-chan gives a critical look to a white and yellow sundress. "Hmm..."
[13:22] <Anastasia> Ami, for her part, is examining a dark blue tank top, one that matches her hair nicely.
[13:22] * Rei-chan looks around at the clothes. "Be nice to stop having to wear winter clothes," she says. Not that she really needs to worry about the temperature, but it does look weird to wear summer clothes in -5 degree weather...
[13:24] * Usagi-chan shakes her head after a minute, heading over towards the swimwear on display.
[13:25] <Anastasia> Ani lingers, thinking over the tank top. "What do you think of this," she asks, holding over her school top.
[13:25] <Rei-chan> "Thinking of buying that, Ami-chan?" Rei asks the blue-haired girl, looking her over. "I think it'll look good on you - matches your hair nicely," she smiles encouragingly at her friend.
[13:25] * Usagi-chan looks up, a pale yellow one-piece suit in her hand. "Hmm... I think that's a really cute color for you, Ami-chan."
[13:26] <Anastasia> She smiles, draping it across her arm. "Swimsuits," she says, blushing a bit automatically. "I think I'll stick with my one piece from last year."
[13:27] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, well, you remember what my one-piece is like." Usagi frowns as she remembers her moth-eaten suit covered with bows.
[13:27] <Rei-chan> "Mine is a bit too small, now," Rei winces, "I should probably pick up something new," she says, going to look over the items on display.
[13:29] <Anastasia> Ami remembers all too well. "Wasn't that for the model competition," she asks, "Back last summer?"
[13:30] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, and it's the only suit I have right now," Usagi replies glumly. "I really need a new one."
[13:31] <Rei-chan> "What do you guys think of this?" Rei holds up a red one-piece with diagonal white stripes down the sides and just below the chest as well as two stars over the navel. It's fairly low cut, with high shoulder straps.
[13:32] * Usagi-chan grins. "Wow, that looks awesome Rei-chan! You should go try it on!"
[13:33] <Anastasia> "It's all right," Ami says with a critical eye. "I don't like the stars myself."
[13:34] <Rei-chan> "I don't know if I'll buy it just yet," Rei shrugs, "Unless we're planning to visit the beach anytime soon, I'm in no rush for a new swimsuit."
[13:34] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, but this IS the best time to get them," Usagi counters. "I mean, once summer actually gets here they'll be all picked-over and there's nothing good left."
[13:36] <Rei-chan> "That's true," Rei nods, keeping the swimsuit in hand while she looks around one more time in case anything better catches her eye.
[13:37] <Anastasia> Ami frowns. "Maybe I should look now," she says, starting to pick through the suits herself.
[13:38] <Rei-chan> "Can't hurt to look, even if you can't find anything just yet," Rei agrees, "It is why we came out here, after all."
[13:38] <Anastasia> She nods, starting by picking out a bright orange, blue and red monstrosity, a one-piece that should be a no-piece. "How about this?" she giggles.
[13:40] <Rei-chan> "Eech," Rei almost visibly recoils. "I don't think that's really... you..." she says at last.
[13:40] <Anastasia> She nods, putting it back. "I don't think it's anyone's."
[13:41] <Anastasia> Ami's face is quite bright and happy now, clearly enjoying herself.
[13:43] * Rei-chan picks out a pale aquamarine suit with almost no back to speak of. "I think this one would suit you quite well," she says, holding it up for Ami's inspection.
[13:48] <Anastasia> She takes it, shifting her already chosen tank top to take this. "Mmmm... it is nice," she says, eyeing it.
[14:46] * Usagi-chan eyes the rack of two-pieces. 'Wish I could...' Shaking her head, she returns to browsing through the racks of single piece suits.
[14:47] <Rei-chan> "Wish you could what, Usagi?" Rei looks over at the blonde.
[14:48] <Usagi-chan> "Oh, just wishing I could get a bikini, kind of." Usagi sighs. "Daddy would kill me though."
[14:49] * Rei-chan sidles up to Usagi. "Daddy doesn't have to know," she says in a naughty whisper.
[14:49] * Usagi-chan blushes. "You think I should?" She gives Rei a sidelong glance.
[14:51] <Anastasia> Ami pauses a moment, thinking. "If you really want one, Usagi, why don't you just bring your disguise pen the next time you go to the beach," she suggests.
[14:51] * Rei-chan pouts slightly at that. "Using a disguise pen is no fun. You should have real clothes."
[14:51] <Usagi-chan> "I GUESS that could work, but I like doing it for real." Usagi frowns.
[14:53] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, just get yourself a bikini, Usagi. It's not like your father will ever have to see it," Rei encourages her.
[14:53] <Usagi-chan> "Oh all right, I guess I could... but which one should I get?" Usagi heads over to the rack and starts looking through the barely-there swimsuits.
[14:53] <Anastasia> Ami follows quietly, taking in the swimsuits she herself wouldn't dare to wear.
[14:54] * Rei-chan is quite happy with her one-piece, but looks around for something that she'd like to see Usagi in.
[14:56] * Usagi-chan pulls a fairly modest two-piece white ensemble off the rack. "Hmm... I don't know if I should get something like this or just bite the bullet and get something really skimpy." She giggles a bit.
[14:57] <Rei-chan> "How about this?" Rei grins, producing a very skimpy metallic silver bikini for Usagi's inspection.
[14:58] * Usagi-chan 's eyes just about bug out as she sees the tiny triangles of silvery fabric. "That's... wow." She looks up at Rei hesitantly. "But would I look good in something like that?"
[15:00] <Rei-chan> "Only one way to find out," Rei thrusts it into Usagi's hands. "But I don't think I'll be disappointed."
[15:00] <Anastasia> Ami nods. "We can tell you how it looks, Usagi-chan," she smiles.
[15:00] * Usagi-chan fumbles with it for a second as Rei drops it in her hands. "I guess... but you have to try yours on too!" She points at the red-and-white suit in Rei's hands.
[15:01] <Rei-chan> "Sure," Rei nods agreeably. "Lets go to the changing rooms."
[15:02] <Anastasia> "Alright," Ami agrees, following Usagi to the changing room, one piece in tow.
[15:03] * Usagi-chan is blushing furiously as the trio enters the changing area. "Okay, I guess I'll go try it on..." She heads for the nearest booth, sliding the curtain closed behind her.
[15:03] <Anastasia> Ami walks to the booth besides Usagi's, getting in and changing quickly.
[15:04] * Rei-chan heads into a booth herself, stripping out of her school uniform and putting on the swimsuit before emerging to compare with the other girls.
[15:04] <Anastasia> Ami comes out right after Rei, her aquamarine shaded suit beautiful with her darker blue hair. "That looks nice on you, Rei."
[15:05] <Usagi-chan> 'Is this the way it's SUPPOSED to fit?' the two girls hear mentally.
[15:05] <Rei-chan> "Thanks," Rei smiles, "Yours is nice-" she cuts herself off, frowning, "What's that, Usagi?"
[15:06] <Anastasia> Ami giggles, unable to help her amusement at Usagi's comment.
[15:06] <Usagi-chan> "Um... nothing." She calls out of the booth, still not coming out.
[15:06] <Rei-chan> "Having a little trouble?" Rei asks, her lips twisting upwards into a crooked grin.
[15:07] <Usagi-chan> "No no!" Usagi squeaks. "It's just a little, um, smaller than I thought." You can practically HEAR her blushing.
[15:07] <Rei-chan> "Well come out and let us see, then."
[15:08] <Anastasia> "Are you sure you don't need help, Usagi?" Ami asks, speaking up without the amusement of Rei.
[15:08] <Usagi-chan> "Just... don't laugh or anything, okay?" she says quietly after a moment.
[15:09] <Rei-chan> "We won't," Rei says, exchanging a slightly dubious look with Ami.
[15:10] * Usagi-chan comes out of the booth, glowing like a Christmas light. The bikini is... well, it DOES actually look a bit smaller after it's been put on...
[15:11] <Rei-chan> "I was right," Rei says, her face heating. "Not disappointed at all..."
[15:11] <Anastasia> "That's....really small," Ami concludes, not blushing at all, but studying Usagi carefully. "No, that barely keeps you decent."
[15:11] * Usagi-chan looks up at Rei shyly. "So... I don't look bad in it?"
[15:12] <Rei-chan> "You look great," Rei says, finding her mouth rather dry at the moment.
[15:13] * Usagi-chan looks over at Ami for a second vote of approval.
[15:13] <Anastasia> She nods. "You will get attention in that," is her comment.
[15:14] <Usagi-chan> "And not from people laughing at me?" she asks worriedly.
[15:14] * Rei-chan puts a hand to her forehead as she shakes her head. "No, definitely not."
[15:14] <Anastasia> "No, you've grown enough to fill that out," Ami says, now just blushing ever so slightly.
[15:17] * Usagi-chan smiles brightly, finally confident that she doesn't look totally stupid. She gives a little twirl in the suit, her ponytails flying. "You really think so?"
[15:18] <Rei-chan> "I'm telling you, you look fantastic," Rei affirms. "I wouldn't lie about that - if my girlfriend looks bad it reflects badly on me," she nods haughtily.
[15:19] * Usagi-chan giggles. "So you wouldn't be embarrassed to be seen with me, huh?" She winks at the dark-haired miko.
[15:20] <Rei-chan> "Not at all," Rei agrees cheerfully. "So what do you think of our suits, then?" she asks, gesturing between herself and Ami.
[15:21] * Usagi-chan gives her friends a once-over, now that her own fears are out of the way. "Very nice - I especially like that color for you, Ami-chan." She nods emphatically.
[15:22] <Anastasia> Ami smiles. "Thanks, Usagi," she says, twirling just a bit to show off her back.
[15:23] * Usagi-chan turns to Rei and grins. "And YOU'D look good in anything, Pyro." 'Or nothing at all,' she adds privately to the miko, her grin widening.
[15:24] <Rei-chan> "So nice of you to say," Rei replies, posing with her hands clasped behind her head. 'Very naughty, Dumpling Head!' she thinks, grinning, 'I approve.'
[15:25] * Usagi-chan giggles. 'I couldn't resist.'
[15:25] <Anastasia> Ami nods, going back to her booth. "I think I'm going to get this."
[15:26] <Rei-chan> 'All you have to do is ask,' Rei continues her preening. "Yes, I'm buying this, too," she nods in assent with Ami, before heading back to her own booth to get changed.
[15:26] * Usagi-chan looks down at her own suit. "I'd LIKE to get this... I love the color, but I'm just not sure I should."
[15:26] * Rei-chan pokes her head out the booth. "Do it!"
[15:27] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Yes ma'am!" She throws Rei a mock salute before ducking back into her own booth to change into her uniform again.
[15:27] * Rei-chan nods in approval, quickly getting changed back into her school uniform and emerging from the changing room.
[15:28] * Usagi-chan emerges a few moments later, the deceptively small bikini clipped back on its hanger. Usagi blushes a bit again. "I can't believe I'm actually going to buy this..."
[15:31] <Anastasia> Coming back out in her Mugen outfit, Ami holds both her articles of clothing. "Where did you want to go to eat?"
[15:31] <Usagi-chan> "What about that pizza place in the food court?" Usagi asks. "Kind of greasy, but I'm in the mood for pizza right now."
[15:31] <Rei-chan> "Works for me," Rei shrugs, heading over to the till so she can buy her new swimsuit.
[15:31] * Usagi-chan follows a few steps behind Rei, her cheeks still a bit pink.
[15:32] <Anastasia> Ami tags along with Rei. "Pizza sounds good," she agrees. "A pizza, soda and maybe ice cream afterwards?"
[15:32] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Ami, you read my mind!"
[15:33] <Anastasia> As the girls buy their clothes...
[15:33] <Anastasia> Going to the mall on Friday felt like a good idea, since Alan wanted to go out on Saturday night this week for some reason. Makoto walks along, glancing inside one of her favorite clothes stores, only to see Rei, Ami and Usagi just buying clothes of their own, laughing amongst themselves.
[15:37] * Makoto walks into the store with a smile, as she waves at her friends. "Hey guys! What's up?"
[15:37] * Usagi-chan waves to Makoto cheerfully. "Heya, Mako-chan! Looks like you decided to hit the mall today too, huh?"
[15:37] <Anastasia> "Hi, Makoto," Ami smiles, holding a shopping bag in one hand and waving with the other.
[15:37] <Rei-chan> "We're just doing a little shopping," Rei smiles, "We were about to go get some pizza if you want to join us."
[15:41] <Makoto> "That'd be great," Makoto says while trying to take a peek at the bags' contents. "So what were you guys looking for in particular?"
[15:41] <Rei-chan> "Swimsuits!" Rei says brightly, pulling hers out the bag for Makoto to see.
[15:42] * Usagi-chan blushes, not quite so eager to show off her purchase. She nods at Rei's words, lowering her head to try to hide her crimson cheeks.
[15:42] <Anastasia> Ami nods at well, a bit embarrassed at Rei's public declaration of the fact.
[15:45] * Makoto laughs. "So you guys are done shopping then?"
[15:46] <Rei-chan> "Well, we might look around a bit more after we get something to eat - we just got here, really," Rei answers, putting her suit back in the bag.
[15:46] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, I'm HUNGRY!" Usagi declares emphatically.
[15:47] <Anastasia> Ami nods. "We're about to get pizza and ice cream," she says. "Want to come, Makoto?"
[15:53] <Makoto> "Already said I would, Ami," Makoto says with a grin.
[15:55] <Anastasia> The group heads to the pizza parlor, a pitcher of soda and a large pizza in front of the first. Well, one for Usagi, one for the rest.
[15:55] * Usagi-chan starts in on the pizza with a will, already on her third slice by the time everyone else has finished their first.
[15:56] * Rei-chan contentedly munches on a slice of pizza. "So, what's been happening in your life lately, Mako-chan?" she asks the tall brunette.
[15:57] <Anastasia> Ami eats away, her mouth too full of good food and drink to start the conversation, instead letting the others jabber on.
[15:58] * Makoto blushes. "Uhm, nothing much..." Makoto says, trying to side-step the issue. "School's the same old school. How's Mugen for you guys?"
[15:59] <Usagi-chan> "Tests and tutoring.... blech!" Usagi makes a face.
[15:59] <Anastasia> "IT's good for you, Usagi," Ami points out. "Your brain is getting in shape."
[15:59] <Usagi-chan> "I liked the shape it WAS in, thank you very much." Usagi pouts.
[16:00] <Rei-chan> "Preferred blissful ignorance, did you?" Rei smirks.
[16:00] * Makoto giggles.
[16:00] <Usagi-chan> "Beats having to study all the time." Usagi retorts, sticking her tongue out at Rei.
[16:01] <Anastasia> "Usagi, you won't make much of a Queen if your mind is a marshmellow," Ami comments.
[16:02] <Rei-chan> "I guess studying ALL the time is no fun," Rei nods, frowning a bit, "But once you get the hang of it you don't need to work so hard - I've nearly managed to catch up with my Chemistry class, at least, and I'm sure looking forward to being able to relax there..."
[16:02] <Usagi-chan> "But I don't HAVE to know how everything works to be Queen! I just have to have other people that do." Usagi pouts. "All I have to do is make decisions."
[16:04] <Rei-chan> "How will you know you're making the right decisions, though?" Rei asks, swirling around her glass as she leans towards Usagi.
[16:04] <Anastasia> Ami sighs. "Usagi, you have to know enough to know WHAT other people are right," she says, sipping away at her soda.
[16:04] <Usagi-chan> "That's what advisors are for, isn't it? Sorting out all the details and stuff so I don't have to?"
[16:14] <Rei-chan> "So basically you'll be a pretty face on a throne who waves to people and impresses tourists while the Moon Kingdom's Diet equivalent makes policy?" Rei asks, smirking.
[16:16] <Usagi-chan> "No!" Usagi frowns. "Well, I will be a pretty face, of course, but I'll actually do real work. But why do I have to understand ALL of it myself?"
[16:17] <Anastasia> "Can you make good choices if you don't understand everything, Usagi?" Ami asks.
[16:17] <Rei-chan> "So you don't get manipulated by ambitious advisors, of course," Rei says as if it's the most obvious thing in the world.
[16:17] * Usagi-chan droops. "But I don't want to have to know all this stuff myself..."
[16:19] <Rei-chan> "Well, you're going to have to if you want to be a good ruler," Rei states firmly.
[16:20] <Usagi-chan> "All right, I guess..." Usagi says with bad grace. "It's just that some of this stuff seems so, I don't know. Useless? I mean, how much chemistry do I really need to know to be a queen?"
[16:23] <Rei-chan> "I'm not saying you have to get a doctorate or anything, but you should try to have at least a basic knowledge of as much as you can. There's no telling when it might come in handy," Rei states, leaning back in her chair and munching on her pizza.
[16:24] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I know I need to study a lot of stuff to be a good ruler - I mean, I never even thought about going to college before this came up and now I'm wondering where I might be able to get in." Usagi muses. "I guess it's one of those things I have to do even though I don't like it much."
[16:25] <Rei-chan> "Just because you don't like doing something, doesn't mean it's not worth doing," Rei notes sagely.
[16:26] <Usagi-chan> "You don't have to tell me that, Rei..." Usagi grumbles. "And just because it's worth doing doesn't mean I can't complain about it."
[16:27] <Makoto> "She has a point, Rei," Makoto says with a smirk. "And it wouldn't be Usagi if there wasn't complaining involved."
[16:27] <Rei-chan> "I guess so," Rei assents gruffly. "She can complain just so long as she still does it."
[16:29] <Usagi-chan> "That's righ... HEY!" Usagi turns to glare at Makoto. "I do not complain THAT much, just about the really bad stuff!"
[16:30] * Makoto starts giggling again.
[16:31] * Rei-chan just smiles, continuing to work her way through the pizza.
[16:32] <Anastasia> Ami giggles herself. "Makoto, how has Juuban been since we left?"
[16:33] <Makoto> "It's been mostly the same," Makoto replies. "It's not quite the same without you and Usagi, but I still have company at least."
[16:33] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, how are things with your boyfriend?" Rei adds, leaning towards Makoto.
[16:34] * Makoto blushes. "They're...fine."
[16:34] <Rei-chan> "That good, huh?" Rei smirks, leaning a bit closer.
[16:35] <Usagi-chan> "Come on, Mako-chan - how are things with you and Alan?" Usagi grins.
[16:35] <Anastasia> Ami raises an eyebrow, listening in.
[16:37] <Makoto> "H-h-hey now, you guys don't tell me all the details about -your- relationship, right?" Makoto stammers out, not sure what to say. Not like she could just say "So yeah, Alan and I are sleeping together nowadays." or some such.
[16:38] <Anastasia> 'Wow,' Ami thinks, surprised at how much Makoto stammered.
[16:38] * Usagi-chan glances over at Rei, then turns back to Makoto. "I would if you asked... it's not like we've got anything to hide."
[16:38] <Rei-chan> "You never ask," Rei pouts, moving over to put her hand on Usagi's shoulder. "We'd almost think you don't care," she adds, batting her eyelashes.
[16:38] * Usagi-chan smiles at Rei's touch.
[16:44] <Makoto> "W-w-what? Whatever they're saying, they're lying!" Makoto continues to stammer out, now blushing beet red.
[16:44] <Rei-chan> "Your face is telling a different story," Rei says, giving Makoto a predatory look.
[16:44] <Anastasia> Ami nods. "The rumors said you and Alan were very close. Very intimate," she blushes a bit at that thought.
[16:45] <Makoto> "Oh, they're definitely lying then," Makoto says with very wild nodding. "Because we most certainly haven't had s...hey! How could you keep following rumors anyhow? You don't even go to school there anymore!"
[16:45] * Usagi-chan raises an eyebrow. "You haven't had... oh my god, you have?" Usagi gapes.
[16:46] <Rei-chan> "You've had sex?!" Rei cries, her hands suddenly flying to cover her gaping mouth as she stares at Makoto with unbridled shock.
[16:46] <Anastasia> Ami starts to reply to Makoto, but is silenced by Usagi. "Oh dear," she lights up, blushing.
[16:47] <Makoto> "W-w-what?" is all Makoto can stammer out in reply to the accusation.
[16:48] <Anastasia> "Oh, Makoto," Ami gets out, her face perfectly crimson. "Did you at least take precautions?"
[16:48] <Usagi-chan> "Mako-chan... did you really... you know." Usagi manages to stammer out.
[16:48] * Rei-chan is still just staring at Makoto in silent shock.
[16:49] * Makoto suddenly pauses. "Precautions?" she squeaks out.
[16:49] <Anastasia> "Oh dear," Ami says again at that, almost absently.
[16:50] <Anastasia> Idly, she puts down her drink, staring at Makoto with the other two.
[16:50] <Rei-chan> "Did it hurt?" Rei asks at last, her poise completely shattered.
[16:50] * Usagi-chan is blushing bright red, staring at Makoto in disbelief.
[16:52] <Makoto> "REI!" Makoto screeches in a scandalized tone, knowing there's no way to put the cat back in the bag.
[16:52] <Rei-chan> "Well..." Rei blushes crimson, "I heard that it's really painful," she gestures to her abdomen, "The first time..."
[16:53] <Usagi-chan> 'What was it like?' Usagi thinks to the brunette.
[16:54] <Anastasia> "Yes..." Ami pauses again, thinking back a moment. "Do you know if you got pregnant yet?" she asks bluntly. "Mother said that if you aren't careful, you can get pregnant the first time."
[16:57] <Makoto> "I suddenly have an urge to go make a doctor's appointment..." she mutters after a short pause.
[16:58] <Rei-chan> "Oh, Mako-chan..." Rei says softly, shaking her head.
[16:58] <Anastasia> "Makoto," Ami reaches out, taking her hand. "I can get my mom to get you a good doctor," she offers, her face showing generous amounts of worry.
[16:59] <Usagi-chan> "Maybe I can tell... I mean, I've seen pregnant women before and their auras look a little different." Usagi seems thoughtful.
[17:02] * Makoto is feeling, really, really awkward. Almost as awkward as when Al... oh.
[17:03] * Makoto suddenly finds herself remembering that time Alan and Ann disappeared, not that she can worry over that with how her friends are hovering over her.
[17:03] <Anastasia> "That's not a bad idea, Usagi," Ami says at last, still throughly embarrassed despite it all. 'Who would have thought that Makoto would have been first?'
[17:03] <Usagi-chan> "Are you okay, Mako-chan?" Usagi asks, seeing as the brunette has been silent for some time.
[17:04] <Makoto> "Uhm, yeah, I'm fine, Usagi."
[17:04] <Rei-chan> 'So can you see anything, Usagi?' Rei asks, her stomach turning knots at the thought of Mako-chan becoming a mother so young.
[17:04] <Usagi-chan> 'Who did you think WOULD be first then?' Usagi replies to Ami. "We're not trying to make you feel bad or anything, it's just... well, really a big surprise, you know?"
[17:05] <Anastasia> 'I don't know, I just...'
[17:05] * Rei-chan nods along with Usagi. "Yeah, this doesn't change anything between us, we're just worried about you is all," she says to the brunette.
[17:06] <Anastasia> Ami nods with Rei. "We're just concerned, Mako-chan."
[17:06] <Usagi-chan> 'I'll look when she stands up, Rei-chan - I can't really see her belly while she's at the table.' Usagi replies to the miko.
[17:07] <Makoto> roll 2d6
[17:07] * Shai`Hulud --> "Makoto rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:10] <Makoto> "I guess..." Makoto says. "I'm hoping I'm not either, anyhow."
[17:12] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, you're far too young," Rei nods, still trying to regain her shattered poise.
[17:13] <Usagi-chan> "Well... if you want me to check, I will. I mean, I don't know if I'll be able to tell for sure, but I can at least take a look." Usagi blurts out.
[17:16] <Anastasia> "That's a good idea, Makoto," Ami nods to Usagi's suggestion.
[17:16] <Makoto> "Uhm... okay, I guess," Makoto says, somewhat unsure.
[17:17] <Usagi-chan> "Just stand up so I can get a good look at you, okay?" Usagi says.
[17:19] * Makoto stands up, somewhat embarrassedly, so Usagi can do what she needs.
[17:19] <Anastasia> OOC - 2d6, rabbit. You know the drill.
[17:19] * Usagi-chan peers intently at Makoto's aura.
[17:19] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+2
[17:19] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[17:21] <Anastasia> Peering at Makoto, you don't see anything new or unusual that would tip you off. You aren't sure... it would still be early, and this is far from a science, though.
[17:21] <Usagi-chan> "You still look the same, Mako-chan. I can't be positive, but I don't think anything happened." Usagi replies after a moment of study.
[17:23] <Makoto> "...Oh."

[Halbarad]

[17:23] <Anastasia> Usagi - As you break your concentration, you very distantly hear a scream...
[17:23] * Usagi-chan snaps her head around in the direction of the scream, instantly alert.
[17:24] * Makoto does the same as Usagi. "What was that?"
[17:25] <Anastasia> "Is something wrong, Usagi," Ami asks, seeing the sudden change in direction she did.
[17:25] <Anastasia> Another scream, this one audible to all, is heard from a fair bit down in the mall...
[17:25] * Rei-chan stands up herself, her supernatural senses quickly focusing in that direction.
[17:25] <Usagi-chan> "Someone screamed!" Usagi takes off running without waiting for the others.
[17:26] <Anastasia> Rei - You sense something down near the one of the mall plazas.
[17:26] * Rei-chan follows, matching her pace with Usagi's. "Never a moment of peace, eh?"
[17:26] <Anastasia> Ami follows as well, this a practiced thing for the girls.
[17:27] * Makoto follows after the others. 'Well, there's one way to get out of an awkward moment...'
[17:29] <Anastasia> Running down to one of the mall plazas (a space with benches and such, between long rows of stores), you see the typical scene of several people unconscious while a  monster is among them. It's got to only be three feet tall at most, humanoid but on all fours and covered in green fur.
[17:29] * Rei-chan looks for a place where she can transform.
[17:29] <Anastasia> There are a few bathrooms off to the side.
[17:29] * Rei-chan dashes into the nearest bathroom, quickly looking around to see if anyone else is there.
[17:29] <Anastasia> "Mirella!" it shouts, a high pitched, grating voice as it drains it's victims!
[17:29] * Makoto looks around to see if it's safe to transform, or if they need to duck into somewhere.
[17:30] <Anastasia> There are still a few concious people, although they are being drained.
[17:30] <Usagi-chan> "Can't we have ONE day off to enjoy ourselves?" Usagi grumbles, following Rei once she sees her intentions. Once inside the bathroom, she takes the brooch off her blouse, holding it up as she shouts. "Moon Prism Power, Make UP!"
[17:31] <Anastasia> Ami runs along with Usagi, her pen out and ready once she gets inside. "Mercury Power, Make UP!"
[17:31] <Rei-chan> Holding aloft her pen, Rei calls out "Mars Power, Make Up!"
[17:31] * Makoto likewise follows into the bathroom, grabbing her transformation pen and raising it as soon as she enters the bathroom and hears the other's transformation phrases. "Jupiter Power, Make Up!"
[17:32] * Sailor_Mars dashes out of the bathroom, ready to fight for love and justice!
[17:32] <Anastasia> Sailor Mercury flips on her visor then dashes out, ready to confront another threat to the Earth.
[17:32] * Sailor_Moon follows a half-step behind Mars. 'Someone needs to keep an eye out for those elves while we fight so we don't get ambushed again.' Usagi thinks as she surveys the scene.
[17:33] <Sailor_Mars> 'I'll cover us,' Rei sends, keeping back for the others to battle the monster while she keeps her senses honed to detect any new arrivals.
[17:34] <Sailor_Moon> "All right, buster! I'll teach you not to interrupt a peaceful afternoon of shopping and fun! I'm Sailor Moon, the Soldier of Love and Justice, and on behalf of the Moon, I'll punish you!" she declares as she poses.
[17:35] <Anastasia> "That's right! For interrupting the lives and fun of Tokyo, you will be punished in the name of Mercury!" Ami declares, falling into line behind Usagi.
[17:35] * Sailor_Jupiter just steps behind the two, looking at the monster with a feral smile as she says nothing and only cracks her knuckles.
[17:36] <Sailor_Jupiter> 'A stress reliver. How kind,' Makoto thinks.
[17:37] * Sailor_Moon can't help but smirk a bit at Makoto's thought.
[17:37] <Anastasia> The hunchbacked monster cackles. "Mirella SWARM!" it cries, it's body splitting and shifting, six coming from one!
[17:38] * Sailor_Moon watches the monster's aura through narrowed eyes, remembering the trick from the VR arcade monster.
[17:38] <Anastasia> They appear in a loose circle, six of the monster, all identical.
[17:38] <Anastasia> Usagi - They look to be real in all respects.
[17:38] <Anastasia> OOC - Initiative
[17:39] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[17:39] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[17:39] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[17:39] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[17:39] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[17:39] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 17."
[17:39] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[17:39] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 19."
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[17:39] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 11."
[17:43] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Let's see which of you is real! Supreme Thunder!" she shouts as she gathers the electrical energy through her tiara, targetting all of them.
[17:43] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6+3
[17:43] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6+3 and gets 10."
[17:43] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:43] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:43] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:43] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[17:43] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:43] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[17:43] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:43] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[17:43] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:43] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[17:43] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:43] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:45] <Anastasia> The lightning crackles in the field, hitting each of the Cardians! The total effect on each seems to be minimal, however, the attack too divided to be largely effective.
[17:46] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Oh great, they're all real," Makoto mutters.
[17:48] * Sailor_Moon flips to the side, doing her best to line a pair of the miniature monsters up. With a grim look of concentration, she lets loose a brilliant beam of energy, which lances out at the Mirella in front!
[17:48] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+1
[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+1 and gets 9."
[17:49] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:49] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:49] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:49] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[17:50] <Anastasia> The blast of energy slams into the first, which plows it into the second and sends them both flying! They impact on the far side of the plaza, badly stunned and damaged!
[17:51] <Anastasia> Leaping as the energy bolt flies and does its deed, one of the furred creatures goes right at Makoto, a set of sharp claws out and ready!
[17:51] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:51] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:51] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[17:51] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[17:51] <Anastasia> Sidestepping away from the clawed beast is easy, however, its attack lacking!
[17:52] <Anastasia> The other three leap forward, two at Usagi and the last at Makoto!
[17:52] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:52] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:52] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:52] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[17:52] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:52] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[17:52] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[17:52] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[17:52] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2
[17:52] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[17:52] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6+2
[17:52] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[17:54] <Anastasia> Sailor Moon frantically leaps out of the way, then ducks the second clawed furry! Makoto, however, is not quite fast enough, the second one's claws swiping her leg and leaving a shallow gash! (22 damage)
[17:55] <Anastasia> As the battle starts, Rei sees the visage of the male elf appear off to the side, his hand raised and reach to take aim at Sailor Moon!
[17:55] <Sailor_Mars> "Not so fast!" Rei snaps, producing an ofuda and tossing it at his image with a cry of "Akuryo Taisan!"
[17:56] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[17:56] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:56] <Anastasia> roll 2d6+3
[17:56] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6+3 and gets 13."
[17:56] * Sailor_Jupiter bites down any sign of pain, instead turning at Rei's cry, and looks at the elf that just showed up.
[17:57] <Anastasia> Taken off guard by the attack, the elf doesn't even manage to fire off his bolt before the ofuda touches his head! This causes the astral elf to vanish, sent back whence it came!
[17:59] <Anastasia> "Guys," Ami calls out, having been monitoring the battle, "These are just part of a greater monster! You're fighting parts of a whole!"
[17:59] <Sailor_Moon> "Then what do we need to aim for?" Usagi calls back.
[17:57] <Anastasia> OOC - Initiative/reactions.
[18:00] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:00] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[18:00] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:00] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[18:00] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:00] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[18:00] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:00] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[18:00] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:00] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[18:00] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:00] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[18:00] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:00] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[18:00] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[18:00] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[18:00] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 12."
[18:00] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 18."
[18:00] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[18:00] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 17."
[18:01] <Anastasia> "Because if any one part survives, the main body could reform!"
[18:02] <Sailor_Moon> "So we've got to take them all out at once..." Usagi mutters to herself.
[18:03] <Sailor_Moon> With a thought for conserving her energy in mind, Usagi aims one outstretched hand at one of the annoying little beasts, another bolt of powerful energy flying out towards the creature!
[18:03] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[18:03] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[18:08] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[18:08] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[18:09] <Anastasia> The blast hits it, sending it flying into a hard wall! The impact is heard as it crunches into the wall, falling to the ground limply.
[18:15] * Sailor_Jupiter nods at the explanation, but remembering the last time she targetted them all, she decides to focus on one for now, to whittle down their numbers. Looking at the monster that hit her, Makoto calls out, "Supreme Thunder!" as the electrical energy gathers in her tiara.
[18:15] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[18:15] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[18:15] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[18:15] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[18:16] <Anastasia> The lightning storm collides with another, shocking it and sending it into spasms and burning its skin!
[18:16] <Anastasia> It crumples to the ground, critically injured with patches of fur burned away, but still alive!
[18:17] <Anastasia> One of the monsters that charged at Usagi leaps again, trying to cut open our heroine!
[18:17] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[18:17] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[18:18] <Anastasia> But it badly misaims, sailing away and wide of the odangoed girl!
[18:18] <Anastasia> Meanwhile, the two knocked away have recovered, bounding over to rejoin the fray and come at Sailor Jupiter!
[18:18] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[18:18] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[18:18] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[18:18] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[18:19] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[18:19] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[18:19] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6+1
[18:19] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6+1 and gets 4."
[18:19] <Anastasia> With a graceful duck and flip, Sailor Jupiter avoids both, ending up on top of a bench after her dodge!
[18:20] <Anastasia> The fourth, still up and running and undamaged mainly, comes at Sailor Moon while the other two fail to injure Jupiter!
[18:20] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[18:20] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[18:20] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[18:20] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[18:21] <Anastasia> Meanwhile... focusing on the main battle, Rei senses something coming up behind Mercury!
[18:21] * Sailor_Mars turns her attention to the space behind Mercury, readying an ofuda in her hand.
[18:22] <Anastasia> The female elf stands behind her, a invisible bolt of force roaring from her hand at the unaware girl!
[18:22] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[18:22] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[18:23] <Sailor_Mars> Too late to attack the elf, Rei reaches out telekinetically to pull the unaware soldier of ice out of the blast's path!
[18:23] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6-4
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6-4 and gets 0."
[18:23] <Anastasia> Taken aback, the girl is yanked out of the way, her legs only clipped by the blast of force instead of hit head on. She winces, but looks to be okay.
[18:24] <Sailor_Mars> "Your opponent is me!" Rei declares, glaring at the elf and putting herself between Ami and the energy vampire.
[18:25] <Anastasia> Ann's eyes narrow. "You again? This is going to be fun," the elf laughs. "Come on!"
[18:25] <Anastasia> OOC - Two battle scenes. React, and then I'm going to execute them concurrently.
[18:26] <Anastasia> Getting to her feet, Ami stands with Rei. "And Sailor Mercury as well," she says, her legs not hurt enough to be a problem for standing.
[18:26] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[18:26] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[18:26] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[18:26] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[18:26] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:26] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[18:26] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[18:27] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:27] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[18:27] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[18:27] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 18."
[18:27] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[18:27] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 14."
[18:27] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[18:27] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 17."
[18:29] <Sailor_Moon> "Get them all together, Jupiter!" Usagi shouts, manevering around to knock the furry that missed her before into the same column as the one she hit a few seconds ago.
[18:29] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[18:29] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[18:30] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[18:30] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[18:30] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[18:30] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[18:32] <Anastasia> The one that was tried to strike you is hit head on, but the second one leaps out of the way with a surprising show of agility! The one hit is sent high up, impacting in the wall and falling, vanishing into a puddle of dust aftewards!
[18:36] * Sailor_Jupiter nods to Usagi as she concentrates on her inner forces, visualizing electrical charges dancing around the monsters, prodding them together like cattle prods.
[18:36] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[18:36] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[18:37] <Anastasia> Sparks of electricty spring up around the monsters, herding them with yelps of pain!
[18:42] <Anastasia> Sneering at Rei, Ann grins. "I've been saving this just for you!" Leaping a back a bit, she fires off a powerful pulse of concussive force, centered at Rei!
[18:42] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[18:42] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[18:42] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+2
[18:42] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[18:42] <Sailor_Mars> do-over!
[18:42] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+2
[18:42] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+2 and gets 5."
[18:42] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[18:42] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[18:43] <Anastasia> A massive burst of force erupts, Mars rolling out of the way, her hair flying about. Mercury, however, is not fast enough and is too close, sending her flying away! She lands on a bench, back over the top part with a thunk.
[18:46] <Sailor_Mars> "Mercury!" Mars cries in alarm, turning her furious gaze on the elf. "You'll pay for that!" she intones, bringing her arms to form a cross in front of her. With a yell of "Mars Snake Fire!" she releases a brilliant serpent of flame at the evil energy vampire!
[18:46] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[18:46] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[18:47] <Anastasia> roll 2d6 (burning 20 EP)
[18:47] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 (burning 20 EP) and gets 5."
[18:48] <Anastasia> Grinning, Ann stands firm and extends a finger, the attack parting around it, harmlessly!
[18:50] <Anastasia> Meanwhile, the creatures are stirring! They leap as one to a spot a bit away from Sailors Jupiter and Moon, merging back into one creature... except this one is taller and bigger, more to the tune of seven feet tall and very thickly furred! It looks a cross between the hunchback of Notre Dame, the Hulk, and a furry!
[18:50] <Anastasia> OOC - Reactions and initiative.
[18:51] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[18:51] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 16."
[18:51] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:51] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[18:51] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[18:51] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[18:51] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[18:51] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 19."
[18:51] <Sailor_Mars> "Damn you..." Mars growls. "Well let's see you deflect this!" she declares, swiping her hand horizontally and leaving a burning trail in the air that solidifies into a blinding bar of incredibly hot flame as she clenches her fist at the end of the movement!
[18:51] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[18:51] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 11."
[18:53] <Anastasia> "Mirella GATHER!" it cries as its body is reformed, ready to fight the Sailors!
[18:54] <Anastasia> "Ha, you won't get another chance," Ann fires back, grinning and readying another blast of energy!
[18:54] <Sailor_Moon> "Good, that just makes it easier." Usagi smirks at the creature.
[18:56] <Sailor_Jupiter> "One, five, you're still toast, beastie!" Makoto shouts as she crosses her arms in front of her chest, and her tiara raises upwards. "Thunder," she starts as electricity gathers around the tiara and forms an electric barrier around her. "Dragon," she says as the energy leaps outwards, coalescing into a dragon form. "GOD!"
[18:56] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[18:56] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[18:58] * Sailor_Moon calls out the attack in synch with Jupiter... "Thunder... Dragon... GOD!" She raises her rod as the dragon erupts from Jupiter's crossed arms, the energy streaming from her scepter striking the ethereal beast and enlarging it far beyond its original size! With an earth-shattering roar it soars around the atrium of the mall before its gaping maw bears down on Mirella!
[18:58] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[18:58] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[18:58] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[18:58] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[19:00] <Anastasia> The massive lightning and Moon attack consumes the creature utterly, its card vaporized as it appears! The attack continues onward, taking a bench in its path and turning it to scrap before it's fury peters out!
[19:00] * Sailor_Moon blinks at the intensity of the combined attack. 'Whoa...'
[19:01] * Sailor_Mars doesn't even see the attack, though she hears and feels the results, her focus is maintained entirely upon the female elf before her.
[19:01] <Sailor_Jupiter> 'Okay, now that was just cool!' Makoto thinks with wide eyes.
[19:05] <Anastasia> "Dammit," Ann growls, glaring at where her Cardian was just a few moments ago. But then, she merely grins. "Then... it's time for round two!" she calls. The sound of a flute is then heard, achingly familiar to Makoto. Too familiar. It dances on, it's sweet melody echoing as another card appears, this one of a knight - no, a suit of armor, said suit appearing as the song ends. It shines like metal, the light giving it a bright sheen. "We have way more where that came from!"
[19:06] <Sailor_Mars> "But there's only two of you, right?" Mars asks, grinning savagely, her sword of flame held in a guard position.
[19:07] <Anastasia> "We don't need any more than that to deal with the likes of you," she says back to Rei, an arrogant smile in place.
[19:08] <Sailor_Jupiter> '...That song,' Makoto thinks with confusion. 'What's going on?'
[19:08] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[19:08] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[19:09] <Sailor_Moon> 'It's so familiar... I know I've heard it before.' Usagi narrows her eyes, staring at the male elf with flute in hand.
[19:10] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Why do you know that song?" Makoto accuses with a yell, pointing at the male elf, still not making the connection, or maybe just not wanting to.
[19:10] <Anastasia> "It's my song," he calls back, "And why do you care? It's your funeral dirge!"
[19:11] <Anastasia> "Enough of this!" Ann calls, back to Rei. "Time to put an end to this!"
[19:11] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[19:11] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[19:11] <Anastasia> Firing off another bolt at Rei, causing the air to shimmer as the force flies through the air.
[19:11] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[19:11] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[19:12] * Sailor_Mars swings her sword of flame upwards, neatly bisecting the bolt around herself. Then with a savage yell, she leaps towards Ann, spinning around and unleashing a massive horizontal swing at the pink haired elf!
[19:12] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[19:12] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[19:13] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6
[19:13] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[19:13] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[19:13] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[19:13] <Anastasia> Ann leaps out of the way, smirking at Rei all the while. "Pathetic, Sailor Mars!"
[19:13] <Sailor_Jupiter> "No way that's your song, you creep!" Makoto insists, before remembering her current form. "I've heard that song coming from a Juuban school!"
[19:14] <Sailor_Moon> 'That's it! That's Alan's song!' Usagi thinks at Makoto's cry.
[19:14] <Anastasia> "Ann, enough," The male elf calls out. "Let's get down to business..." Alan pauses, turning to Makoto and staring a moment. "You know this song?" he asks, interested.
[19:14] * Sailor_Mars glowers at Ann, deciding she might need to up the ante a bit here. The words of Usagi and Makoto a dull background noise to her as she focuses on her nemesis.
[19:16] * Sailor_Jupiter glowers at the elf, while giving a mental 'Yes. Alan's song...' reply to Usagi. "Yes, I have! So I know you're lying!"
[19:16] * Sailor_Moon studies the elf's aura closely as Makoto argues with him.
[19:16] <Anastasia> The elf grins, "Fine then, lying or not... you're DEAD! Go, Armea!"
[19:16] <Anastasia> OOC - Initiative, past any more quick lines.
[19:17] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[19:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 14."
[19:17] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[19:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 16."
[19:17] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2
[19:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[19:17] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[19:17] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[19:17] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[19:17] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[19:17] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[19:17] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[19:18] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 for rejuv
[19:18] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for rejuv and gets 5."
[19:18] <Anastasia> The elf's aura is oddly familiar... it's pinging the back of your mind.
[19:20] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Sorry, but I refuse to bite it before I find out why you're lying!" Makoto shouts as she looks at the knight while her tiara raises upwards. "You won't be hiding behind your monsters! Supreme Thunder!"
[19:20] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[19:20] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[19:21] <Anastasia> roll 2d6 (Burning 20 EP)
[19:21] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 (Burning 20 EP) and gets 8."
[19:22] <Anastasia> Alan swings his free hand, trying to stop the bolt! However, he misjudges, the bolt clipping his side and causing him to wince in pain as the lightning passes through his body!
[19:22] * Sailor_Moon moves over towards Ami, her gaze still fixed on the male elf as she tries to place what's so familiar about his aura.
[19:22] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6-2 for Mind
[19:22] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6-2 for Mind and gets 6."
[19:23] <Sailor_Jupiter> "If you don't want another of those, tell me! Why do you know that song?" Makoto shouts, trying to force him past her bluff, despite feeling all wiped out.
[19:23] * Sailor_Moon stops in her tracks to gape at Alan as the realization hits. 'Oh... shit...' she thinks.
[19:24] * Sailor_Mars springs forward once more, swinging her sword diagonally at Ann's torso!
[19:24] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[19:24] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[19:24] <Anastasia> "Stuff it," he growls, readying himself again!
[19:24] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[19:24] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[19:25] <Anastasia> Ann simply sidesteps out of the way, falling back into position for her own attack, reaching her hand for you!
[19:25] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[19:25] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[19:25] <Anastasia> It's misaimed, the result of the dodge putting her out of range.
[19:25] * Sailor_Moon quickly looks over at the female elf to verify her guess, the color draining from her face.
[19:25] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 for Soul
[19:25] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for Soul and gets 8."
[19:25] <Anastasia> Meanwhile, Alan focuses his hand, pointing it down at Makoto. "Time to die," he grins.
[19:25] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[19:25] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[19:26] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[19:26] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[19:27] <Anastasia> The blast hits Makoto square on, sending her arching over the bench where Ami lays and onto the cold, hard floor! (60 damage)
[19:29] <Anastasia> Meanwhile, the Cardian floats quickly and smoothly over to Sailor Mars, attacking her with a swipe of its metallic arm!
[19:29] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[19:29] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[19:29] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[19:29] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[19:30] <Anastasia> Seeing it out of the corner of her eye at the last minute, Sailor Mars hops away, the swipe hitting only air!
[19:30] * Sailor_Jupiter feels the pain from that, but despite her injuries forces to get herself up. "I'm... not... done with you yet," she mumbles as she unsteadily stands, staring at the male elf.
[19:30] <Anastasia> "Good shot," Ann calls as she stares down Mars. "Finish her off already, Alan!"
[19:31] <Sailor_Mars> Rei's eyes widen as she hears that, for the first time taking in how the rest of the battle has went for her friends.
[19:31] <Sailor_Jupiter> 'No,' Makoto thinks as she hears that. 'No! NO! NO!'
[19:31] <Anastasia> "Sure thi-" Alan is cut off, a blast of energy clipping him from behind and sending him plummeting to the ground!
[19:31] <Sailor_Jupiter> "DON'T CALL HIM ALAN!" she screams.
[19:32] * Sailor_Moon closes her eyes, hanging her head. 'It IS Alan, Mako-chan...' she thinks in a dejected tone.
[19:32] <Anastasia> "Such bothersome pests," Cyprine calls out, Ptilol entwined with her. "Do you want assistance?" the red haired half asks, the both floating behind where Alan was.
[19:33] * Sailor_Jupiter looks at the ground, her legs feeling weak, as her lack of energy seems to be catching up to her. Tears form at the edges of her eyes. 'It can't be...it just can't.'
[19:33] <Anastasia> "Ugh..." Alan murmurs, badly hurt from the attack. "ALAN!" Ann cries, as he staggers to his feet and looks upward.
[19:33] <Sailor_Moon> 'I'm sorry, Mako-chan, but it is,' Usagi replies, tears forming in the corners of her own eyes as she heads over to comfort the brunette.
[19:34] * Sailor_Mars regards the tense situation. "Oh, crap!" she mutters as it finally sinks in. "Cyprine, don't kill them!" she yells at the witches.
[19:34] <Anastasia> "You little bitches," she hisses at the floating twins. "You're dust!"
[19:35] <Sailor_Mars> "Like hell!" Rei puts herself between Ann and the twins. "You don't stand a chance against all of us, stand down, Ann!"
[19:36] <Anastasia> Grunting and wobbling, Alan says, "Ugh... retreat, Ann! Let the Cardian deal with them!" with that, he vanishes!
[19:37] <Anastasia> Ann grunts, sending a last glare at Mars before vanishing.
[19:37] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[19:37] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[19:37] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[19:37] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[19:37] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[19:37] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 12."
[19:39] * Sailor_Moon hugs the shell-shocked Senshi of Thunder. "I'm so sorry, Mako-chan..." she whispers.
[19:39] <Anastasia> The monster shows no hesitation! Going forward at Mars again, a metallic sword appears in its hands, swinging it fiercely at the Sailor of Fire!
[19:39] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[19:39] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[19:40] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[19:40] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[19:40] <Sailor_Mars> do-over!
[19:40] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[19:40] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[19:41] <Anastasia> The attack is batted away by Mars's still burning sword of fire, flame against steel for a heated moment!
[19:41] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6 for rejuv
[19:41] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 for rejuv and gets 8."
[19:42] <Sailor_Mars> Letting her sword dissipate as she hops backwards, Mars brings up her crossed arms and glares at the remaining monster, feeling no pity for its pathetic existence as nothing more than a decoy to die at her hand. "Mars Snake Fire!" she intones, pronouncing her judgement over it.
[19:42] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[19:42] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[19:43] <Anastasia> The attack goes, the monster not even moving, just standing firm! As the flame hits, a blue, wavy barrier is seen over it, the attack reflecting and coming right back at Sailor Mars! (Dodge roll for Mars)
[19:43] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+2
[19:43] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+2 and gets 10."
[19:44] <Anastasia> The attack burns over Rei, her own fires turn against her in a tragic fate! Her body is singed, but her innate resistance to fire helps some, leaving her only minorly crispy!
[19:44] * Sailor_Jupiter raises her arm, wiping at the tears streaking down her cheeks, and opens her eyes as she stands up, looking at the monster. "You don't have anything to be sorry about, Usagi..." Makoto whispers, focusing her reddened eyes on the monster. "No, you're not the one with anything to be sorry about..."
[19:45] * Sailor_Moon takes a step back, nodding at Makoto sadly.
[19:48] <Anastasia> Seeing the results of Rei's attack, the twins frown. "Very bothersome..." Ptilol comments. "Then let's..." Cyprine says, the two suddenly weaving a spell around Rei. Rei feels her body simmer, energy flowing into her, her flame sword burning brighty, incandesantly white now. 'Rei, go,' the voices of the twins sound in the vault of your mind.
[19:49] <Anastasia> OOC - Initiative.
[19:49] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[19:49] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 16."
[19:49] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[19:49] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 14."
[19:49] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[19:49] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 16."
[19:49] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[19:49] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[19:49] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[19:49] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[19:50] * Sailor_Mars smiles, the minor pain of her injury completely forgotten. 'Thanks, guys,' she sends to the two twins, holding her newly burning sword of fire aloft and bringing it down on the creature, aiming to cleave it in two!
[19:51] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[19:51] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[19:51] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6
[19:51] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[19:51] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[19:51] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[19:51] * Sailor_Moon notices the still-fallen Sailor Mercury. A sudden wave of worry overtaking her - she should have gotten up long ago! - Usagi brings forth the Lunar Rod, sending forth waves of healing energy towards the fallen senshi!
[19:51] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[19:51] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[19:51] <Anastasia> A massive sword of fire, its intensity causing waves of shimmering heat to rise from it, just misses the moving target, damn near turning it into slag in a blow.
[19:52] <Anastasia> The healing light washes over the fallen, injured Senshi, slowly helping her wounds.
[19:53] <Anastasia> The monster swings back at Rei, aiming to main the raven tressed girl!
[19:53] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[19:53] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[19:53] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[19:53] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[19:53] <Anastasia> The swing is avoided, the backlash of the heat deflecting it away from Rei!
[19:55] <Sailor_Jupiter> "You know, this has not been my day," Makoto whispers. "Ah well, let's make your day as bad."
[19:55] * Sailor_Jupiter raises her arms in front of her, her tiara raising as she shouts, "SUPREME THUNDER DRAGON!"
[19:55] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[19:55] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[19:57] <Anastasia> The suit of ghostly armor again doesn't dodge, the wavy, sea blue barrier again reflecting, the dragon going right back at Mako-chan!
[19:58] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[19:58] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[19:58] <Anastasia> Her eyes wide at the effect, she leaps at least ten feet straight up, her injured body protesting far less vigourously than it would have if hit.
[20:01] <Anastasia> OOC - reactions/initiative
[20:01] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 15."
[20:01] <Sailor_Moon> OOC: No init, maintaining healing.
[20:01] <Anastasia> OOC - Right.
[20:01] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[20:01] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[20:02] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[20:02] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 14."
[20:02] * Sailor_Moon looks grim as she holds the healing energy for a few seconds longer, silently willing Ami to regain consciousness.
[20:03] <Sailor_Mars> Recovering from her last swing, Mars spins around as she unleashes a massive backhand stroke with her newly empowered sword of flame at the animated suit of armour!
[20:03] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[20:03] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[20:03] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[20:03] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[20:03] <Anastasia> The attack cuts through the side of the armor like paper, bits of instantly melted metal sizzling on the floor! It staggers, clearly and badly injured in one shot!
[20:06] <Sailor_Jupiter> Seeing that the magic of the sword wasn't reflected, Makoto brings out the mace from her subspace pocket. 'You know, I actually had almost forgotten I had this,' she thinks as she smirks at the monster and charges at it. 'Okay, this better work...'
[20:06] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[20:06] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[20:09] <Anastasia> As it swings, Makoto feels her emotions well up, all the anger, confusion, love, desire of this terrible day suddenly coming into crystal clear focus as the mace hurtles to its target. A cry escapes your throat as it impacts into its breastplate, your power activating as it impacts, veins of lightning coursing out from the mace and into the creature. "Jupiter Thunder CRUSH!" Makoto shouts, her emotions surging as the mace goes clear through the breastplate!
[20:11] * Sailor_Mars relaxes as the creature dies. 'Cyprine? Ptliol?' she tries, wondering if she can still communicate with the twins mentally right now.
[20:12] <Anastasia> 'Good job, Rei,' Cyprine says, with the first warmth or approval you've ever really heard from her. Then you feel her augmentation leave, your knees buckling as the boosting energy leaves.
[20:13] * Sailor_Moon releases her healing magic, quickly running over to Ami's side to check on the downed senshi more thoroughly.
[20:13] * Sailor_Mars sags slightly. 'Hey! Wait, I need to talk to you guys! Meet us back at Mugen!'
[20:14] <Anastasia> If they heard you, they make no mental response. Instead, they float down, looking at the scene as they descent. "Messy," Cyprine comments.
[20:15] <Sailor_Mars> "Yeah," Rei sighs, walking over to join them, "You don't know the half of it." Getting close enough to speak without risk of being overheard, she speaks in a quiet tone, "Meet us back at Mugen and we'll explain - we know who those elves really are, now."
[20:15] <Anastasia> Ami has a bit of blood still just over her lip and running down her chin from her mouth, but you can tell by her not so pale cheeks and even breathing that she's doing better.
[20:16] * Sailor_Moon breathes a sigh of relief, mentally kicking herself for not checking on the blue-haired girl earlier in the battle.
[20:16] <Anastasia> She's still unconscious, now noticing her Sailor form is gone. She probably lost it right after impact, when you were battling.
[20:17] * Sailor_Moon wipes the blood from Ami's chin with a gloved hand, simply thankful that she seems to be all right now.
[20:18] <Anastasia> "Really," Ptilol says, smiles forming on both twins's faces. "Something to look forward to on Saturday?"
[20:19] * Sailor_Moon overhears from her position next to Ami. "Tomorrow is going to be one heck of a busy day..."
[20:19] <Sailor_Mars> "It's..." Rei frowns, "Really messy. I don't know what their story is, but they're both new students at Juuban Middle." She gives Makoto a sympathetic look. "I'm not sure what we're going to do about them, now..."
[20:20] <Anastasia> "Heh," they both say as one. "We shall see, then, Rei," Cyprine says. "And then, we shall meet you at Mugen tonight."
[20:20] * Sailor_Moon struggles to her feet, Ami slung over one shoulder. "I can't believe I never saw it before now... exactly the same auras." she says angrily.
[20:21] * Sailor_Mars nods. "See you guys later. And thanks for the help," she gives them both a grateful smile.
-------
Small section missing here...
-------
[11:19] <Makoto> "I'm sorry," she hiccups while crying, especially noticing the effect her outburst had on her friends. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry..." 'I didn't mean to yell... not to Usagi...' she thinks.
[11:20] * Usagi-chan manages to overcome her trepidation, walking over to kneel down next to Makoto's chair. "I'm so sorry, Mako-chan..." Tears begin to roll down the blonde's cheeks in sympathy for her friend's situation.
[11:20] <Rei-chan> "You don't have to be sorry for anything, Mako-chan," Rei says softly, wishing she was better at this sort of thing.
[11:25] <Makoto> Having Usagi nearby, Makoto instinctively latches onto the blonde, burrowing her face into her shoulder, and clenching her fists around the back of Usagi's shirt, seeking the physical comfort she's not often had. Her eyes begin to output more tears, instantly absorbed into Usagi's shirt, as Makoto goes silent except for her crying.
[11:26] <Usagi-chan> "I know, Mako-chan... I know." Usagi rests her head on the brunette's shoulder, her arms circling around to embrace Makoto.
[11:26] * Rei-chan has a sad expression as she watches Makoto desperately seek comfort from someone far better at providing it than herself.
[11:30] <Makoto> Though muffled because her face is buried into Usagi's shoulder, Makoto mumbles out the question likely on everyone's mind. "What do I do, Usagi? What do I do?"
[11:31] <Usagi-chan> "I wish I had an easy answer for you, Mako-chan... You know we can't let them keep on draining people's energy, but I don't know what to do either." Usagi sighs, her hands soothing Makoto's back.
[11:33] <Rei-chan> "Maybe they're being controlled by someone else?" Rei suggests hopefully. "Or even if they're not, maybe we can still find some way to convince them to stop draining people's energy?"
[11:35] <Usagi-chan> "I can always try to heal them." Usagi smiles. "Maybe it won't be so bad."
[11:36] * Makoto is quiet for a while, before lifting her head up and giving a weak smile of thanks to Usagi. Her eyes are still red and puffy from crying, but the crying seems to have slowed down a lot, from the comfort Usagi provided and her own attempts to calm herself.
[11:37] * Usagi-chan smiles and wipes the tears from Makoto's cheeks with her thumb gently. "It'll be okay, Mako-chan - I promise."
[11:38] * Makoto sniffles, but nods gingerly. "Thank you..." she says quietly, even if she's still very unsure of what to do with the situation.
[11:39] * Usagi-chan draws Makoto into another hug, simply offering her silent support to the other girl.
[11:41] * Rei-chan is glad that Usagi has managed to calm Makoto down at least a bit, and goes back to sitting next to Ami on the couch, hesitant to ask what their actual plan is since no one seems to have much of a clue.
[11:51] * Makoto suddenly gasps as she recalls something. 'Oh my god... Herb!'
[11:52] <Makoto> "I just remembered... but," Makoto pauses, not really wanting to -talk- about them, but... "Uhm, Herb is -kinda- sorta going out with Ann too."
[11:53] * Usagi-chan leans back, giving Makoto a blank look. "Herb... and Ann?"
[11:53] * Makoto nods with worry.
[11:54] <Rei-chan> 'Boy, those elves sure are popular...' "I guess someone'd better tell him about this, then..."
[11:54] * Usagi-chan takes a deep sigh. 'As if this wasn't complicated enough...'
[11:55] <Rei-chan> "I'll call him," Rei says, standing up and taking out her oft neglected communicator, pushing whatever button puts her in contact with the Musk Prince.
[11:56] * Prince_Herb answers the communicator "Hiya!"
[11:57] <Rei-chan> "Hi, Herb. You busy?" Rei asks.
[11:58] <Prince_Herb> "No, not at the moment," Herb says, "I was just about to head home, in fact."
[11:59] <Rei-chan> "Well, can you come over to Mugen? We've got some news about those two energy vampires."
[11:59] <Prince_Herb> "Roger that. I'll head over there now."
[12:00] * Prince_Herb heads down the the car-park and drives over to Mugen.
[12:01] <Rei-chan> "I'll go upstairs to let him in," Rei says, leaving the office and heading up to the entrance of Mugen.
[12:02] * Usagi-chan nods, staying next to Makoto as the miko departs.
[12:07] * Prince_Herb arrives at Mugen, and spies the lovely miko waiting for him.
[12:08] <Rei-chan> "You'll find out when we get back with the others," Rei says as she leads Herb into the Witches office, hoping someone else can do the awkward job of telling him about his girlfriend.
[12:09] * Usagi-chan looks up as Herb comes in, looking rather upset.
[12:11] * Prince_Herb looks at the scene of devastation before him. "Um..." he says, intelligently. "What's going on here?"
[12:12] <Rei-chan> "Herb, you know your girlfriend; Ann?" Rei begins, seeing no one else is going to volunteer for the grim task.
[12:13] <Prince_Herb> "Well, of course I do." Herb says, wondering what Rei-hime is driving at, then coming to a horrible realisation.
[12:14] <Prince_Herb> "My God, is this what this is about? Has she been hurt?"
[12:16] <Rei-chan> "No," Rei shakes her head, 'Despite my best efforts. She's tough to put down...' "But, she... ah..." finding no way to phrase it delicately, the miko presses on. "She's one of those energy vampires we've been fighting lately."
[12:17] <Prince_Herb> "One of the elves? How...?" Herb says, this not having been the answer he expected.
[12:18] <Rei-chan> "We don't know how," Rei shakes her head. "We fought her and Alan at the mall earlier, and Makoto figured it out..." she sends a worried glance over at the brunette.
[12:18] <Usagi-chan> "We don't know, but there's no doubt it's true." Usagi says from her seat next to Makoto. "I recognized her aura, too."
[12:19] * Makoto lowers her head to the desk, but says nothing, letting Usagi and Rei explain to Herb what was going on, and not wanting to start crying again.
[12:20] * Prince_Herb looks over at Makoto and sees the truth written all over her face.
[12:21] * Prince_Herb sits down and sighs.
[12:22] <Prince_Herb> "What do we do now? I don't want to hurt Alan and Ann..."
[12:23] <Rei-chan> "None of us do," Rei says simply. 'Okay, I wouldn't mind roughing Ann up just a little bit...' "But we can't let them continue on as they are."
[12:26] * Usagi-chan shoots Rei a look, then sighs. 'I guess I can't blame you, considering what she's done.' she replies with a mental sigh.
[12:27] <Rei-chan> 'She deserves at least some punishment for all she's done, especially to poor Ami-chan,' Rei thinks back, shooting a look over at the still recovering blue-haired genius.
[12:29] <Prince_Herb> "I'm going dancing with her tomorrow night." Herb says, "and Mako-chan has a date with Alan at the same time. Perhaps you guys could use the time to have a look around their apartment?"
[12:29] * Usagi-chan deflates. 'I know, but... god, this is just such a mess! BOTH Makoto and Herb...'
[12:31] * Rei-chan looks over at the distraught Makoto then back at Herb. "Do you really think you guys could act normally on dates with them, now?"
[12:33] <Prince_Herb> "I don't know. I think I could, though." Herb says. 'Heart of ICE!' he thinks.
[12:33] <Prince_Herb> "I don't think the full emotional impact has hit me yet, though. I don't believe it emotionally, even though I believe it intellectually."
[12:34] <Prince_Herb> 'How could the sweet, elf-loving Ann be an evil energy vampire?' Herb wonders, even though he can now see the sense behind it.
[12:35] * Rei-chan sighs. "Yeah, I guess you'd have to really see it for yourself for it to sink in, huh?"
[12:37] <Usagi-chan> "We STILL don't know WHY they're taking energy though..." Usagi frowns. "That bothers me for some reason."
[12:38] <Rei-chan> "Maybe they have some dark lord they want to release, or maybe they just need it to survive themselves..." Rei looks unhappy. "In the former we might be able to convince them otherwise, but what do we do if draining people's energy is the only way they can live?"
[12:39] <Prince_Herb> "Maybe we could find another sort of energy for them to live on?"
[12:39] <Usagi-chan> "I don't know." Usagi looks morose. "But we can't let them keep doing what they're doing, no matter what - they're putting people in the hospital, for god's sake!"
[12:39] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, and Ann would have killed Ami-chan without a second thought if we hadn't stopped her the other day," Rei adds.
[12:40] * Prince_Herb looks thoughtful, since that's what he would have done before he met Nian.
[12:45] * Usagi-chan looks over at Makoto before going on. "I don't want to hurt either of them any more than you do, but we have to do something about them."
-------
Little section missing here. After hearing about Makoto's adventurousness with Alan, Usagi and Rei head back to the Shrine and... er... well, you know.
-------
[09:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> Saturday morning... so much happened yesterday. Waking up beside Rei, however, seems to make it all less... pressing.
[09:10] * Usagi-chan yawns sleepily, snuggling up against Rei as she slowly regains consciousness.
[09:11] * Rei-chan snuggles back, making a murmured noise of contentment as she does so, still sleeping.
[09:14] <Rei-chan> After a few moments, Rei wakes up, smiling as she notices the beautiful girl cuddled against her. "So it wasn't a dream?" she whispers quietly.
[09:14] * Usagi-chan smiles at the mumbled sound, stretching over and giving her love a light kiss on the cheek.
[09:15] * Usagi-chan shakes her head slightly. "No... although I still have a hard time believing it was real myself."
[09:16] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, it really was incredible, wasn't it?" Rei agrees, stretching one of her arms while the other remains wrapped around Usagi. Yawning she looks over at the clock on her nightstand.
[09:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's 9:35 AM.
[09:18] <Rei-chan> "Oh crap!" Rei disengages herself from Usagi and sits up, "We're late!"
[09:18] <Usagi-chan> "Definitely..." Usagi says with a smile, then squawks in protest as she's suddenly dislodged. "Late?" She sits up with a jerk.
[09:20] <Rei-chan> "It's after half past nine!" Rei gets out of bed and starts grabbing some clothes before noticing that she's rather dishevelled and... sticky. "Come on, we need to get cleaned up and get to Mugen," she says, taking Usagi's hand and pulling her up out of bed.
[09:21] * Usagi-chan lets Rei draw her out of the bed without protest. "Oh man... we need to hurry!" she says quickly.
[09:22] * Rei-chan grabs her nightgown and quickly tosses it over herself, handing Usagi a towel so she can cover herself as they head to the bathroom.
[09:22] * Usagi-chan quickly wraps the towel around herself, scurrying along behind Rei as she darts out into the hall.
[09:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> Jumping out into the hall, you nearly run over Yuuichiro, the robed man happening to be passing by. His eyes widen as he takes in the rushing girls, his cheeks heating.
[09:24] <Rei-chan> "Morning, Yuuichiro, can't talk, late," Rei babbles, hurrying past him and into the bathroom.
[09:24] * Usagi-chan simply blushes as she speeds past him and into the bathroom behind the miko.
[09:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hi... Rei..." he manages, his eyes staring at the both of you. "Gramps wants to talk to you!"
[09:25] <Rei-chan> "Okay, I'll be done in a minute," Rei calls from the bathroom, removing her nightgown and quickly scrubbing herself off.
[09:27] * Usagi-chan sheds her towel, shivering a bit at the cool water as she cleans herself. "I thought you had an alarm clock!" Usagi says.
[09:28] <Rei-chan> "I never use it," Rei shakes her head as she rinses the soap off her body. "Normally I can wake up right on time by myself." Finished cleaning, she grabs a towel and begins to dry herself off.
[09:30] <Rei-chan> Finished drying, Rei wraps the towel around herself and races back to her room, quickly getting dressed in her school uniform.
[09:30] * Usagi-chan is a bit slower than Rei, more used to taking a shower than a traditional bath. She sighs. "Guess we wore each other out last night..." she grumbles as she finishes and begins drying herself.
[09:31] <Rei-chan> After getting dressed (although her blouse seems a bit tighter than usual), Rei exits her bedroom and goes looking for her grandfather.
[09:33] * Usagi-chan heads off to Rei's room a minute or so after the miko has finished dressing, the towel wrapped securely around her. She dresses in her discarded Mugen uniform from the day before - although she does borrow a pair of panties from Rei, as her own are currently... unusable. At least until they get washed.
[09:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> Going outside, you find Grandfather Hino sweeping the courtyard in the slightly cool weather, working away as there isn't much else to do - no visitors this morning that you see.
[09:34] <Rei-chan> "Yuuichiro said you wanted to talk to me, Grandpa?" Rei asks, approaching the elderly priest.
[09:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Ah, Rei," he says, his voice a bit hesitant. "Is Usagi with you?" he asks, glancing behind you.
[09:36] * Usagi-chan checks Rei's room to make sure she hasn't forgotten anything, then grabs Rei's and her own schoolbags - apparently Rei forgot hers before she left. She takes the door directly out of Rei's room into the temple grounds, spotting Rei talking with her grandfather a short distance away. She trots up quickly, bags in hand.
[09:36] <Rei-chan> "Uh, she should just be getting dressed," Rei blushes. 'I can guess what this is going to be about...'
[09:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "Rei, you are my granddaughter and you mean a great deal to me," he begins, solemn. "I've witnessed you grow up into a vibrant, happy teenager, as well as one of the defenders of Tokyo."
[09:37] <Rei-chan> "Right," Rei nods, sensing a bigass 'but' coming.
[09:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> "But..." he pauses, seeing Usagi coming up. "Hello, Usagi," he greets her, still serious.
[09:40] * Usagi-chan bobs a quick bow to the old man. "Good morning, Hino-san," she replies, a little put off by his unusually serious tone.
[09:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You two," he begins, a picture of old style diginty and respect, "Please keep it down in there. I'm sure you two are having fun, but the other people sleeping here don't need to get a vocal play by play."
[09:41] * Rei-chan coughs, blushing severely. "Sorry, Grandpa," she mutters, looking at her feet.
[09:42] * Usagi-chan goes beet red at the old priest's words. "Sorry, Hino-san," she echoes Rei.
[09:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods, reaching into his robes. He takes out a ripped out magazine page, handing it to Usagi. "As an alternative, why don't you take Rei here?" he suggests, a hint of a smile forming at the corner of his mouth.
[09:43] * Usagi-chan looks at the page curiously, wondering what Gramps has in mind.
[09:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> Emblazoned on a hot pink background is a hotel bed that appears to be vibrating. "Juuban Love Hotel" is splashed across the top of the page, surrouned by two cute, scantly clad girls holding the end letters.
[09:45] <Usagi-chan> "I'll... keep it in mind, Hino-san." Usagi says, her blush deepening even more.
[09:45] <Rei-chan> "Oh, man..." Rei looks over Usagi's shoulder at the paper. "Thanks, Grandpa," she deadpans.
[09:45] <Usagi-chan> 'I know where we're going next time.' Usagi thinks to the miko.
[09:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods again. "Please do." he starts to turn away, but then stops. "Oh, Rei, one more thing."
[09:46] <Rei-chan> "Yes?" Rei asks, sagging slightly.
[09:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Reaching again into his baggy cloths, he pulls out a slender, glossy, red covered magazine. "Should you need it," he smirks, laughing his same old laugh. It looks to be a... novelty item catalog.
[09:48] * Usagi-chan gapes at the catalog for a second, completely flabbergasted.
[09:48] <Rei-chan> "Thanks, Grandpa," Rei cringes, taking her bookbag from Usagi and stuffing the catalog inside.
[09:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> He laughs, then walks away.
[09:49] <Usagi-chan> "Come on, Rei-chan - we'd better get going. We're already SERIOUSLY late." Usagi turns towards the steps of the shrine, crumpling the magazine page in her hand as she starts to run.
[09:50] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Rei matches her pace with Usagi, "We should be able to get away with skipping our actual classes today, but we still need to be at the school."
[09:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---

[Halbarad]

[09:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> The next morning dawns cold and lonely for Makoto, the events of the past day wailing in her head like a possessed demon...
[09:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> Stirring groggily, the sound of your communicator wakes you from your faint and unrestful doze.
[09:58] * Makoto grumbles and sighs, and fumbles for the beeping communicator, turning it on once her hand reaches it. "Yes?"
[09:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami's face appears in the little screen. "Mako-chan," she asks. "How are you feeling?"
[10:01] <Makoto> "Not much better than yesterday, that's for sure," Makoto says with a sad smile.
[10:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'm sorry, Mako-chan," Ami says, her voice laced with sadness. "Anyway, we're meeting at Mugen today to deal with what happened. I was going to stop by soon to show you the way."
[10:03] <Makoto> "Alright," Makoto says with the same sad smile. "I'll be getting ready."
[10:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods. "See you soon," she smiles once more, then vanishes as she ends the call. Glancing at the alarm clock, it's not even 7 AM quite yet. She called early... not like your sleep was much to be disrupted this night, however.
[10:06] * Makoto gingerly gets out of bed, slipping her feet into some bunny slippers as she forces her eyes to stay open while she heads to the bathroom to wash up her face. Once that's done, and feeling a bit more awake from the splash, she takes a peek outside to see what the weather is like today.
[10:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's clear and cool. Not a bad spring day for a da... for anything, really.
[10:08] * Makoto sighs. "Somehow, I kinda of wish it was a cold, cloudy and dark day..." she mumbles as she heads back to her room to change.
[10:15] * Makoto browses through her clothing for a while, before finally settling on a comfortable white t-shirt and some loose green striped pants, before donning the jacket that went with the pants over the shirt as well. Picking up a scrunchie, she raises her long hair upwards from under the jacket, and ties it into her normal ponytail before heading to the kitchen, perhaps to cook something quick while waiting for Ami.
[10:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you poke through the kitchen, the doorbell rings. "Mako-chan," Ami calls as well, raising her voice.
[10:17] <Makoto> "Coming," Makoto calls back, as she sighs and leaves the kitchen, heading towards the entrance to her apartment. Opening the door, she greets Ami. "Good morning, Ami."
[10:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami is dressed in the Mugen uniform, coupled with a fair deal of worry on her face. "Morning, Mako-chan," she says. "Ready?"
[10:19] <Makoto> "Would have liked to have time for a quick bite for breakfast, but yeah, I'm as ready as I'll ever be."
[10:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami nods. "We can get breakfast there," she offers, stepping aside so you can come out.
[10:21] <Makoto> "Alright, one second, I need to get my keys," Makoto says as she moves away from the door, and back to the living room, picking up the keys from the table before heading back to Ami and locking the door behind her. "Okay, let's go."
[10:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> Walking down the cool streets of Tokyo, Ami is silent at first. But soon, her curiosity gets the better of her discretion. "Mako-chan... what are you going to do about Alan?"
[10:26] * Makoto continues to walk silently for a bit after that, not sure how to respond, before speaking truthfully. "I don't know. I just don't know anymore."
[10:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami stares down, right past the school satchel she holds in front of her with her hands. "We're probably going to have to fight them, today or soon," Ami notes.
[10:28] * Makoto simply does not reply this time, not wanting to think on the matter right now. At least not more than necessary.
[10:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> The rest of the walk passes in silence, and the two girls enter Mugen. Makoto takes note of the darker hallways past where most of the students go, down into the remade abode of the Witches. Cyprine is already there, as are Eudial, Tellu and Viluy. They're chatting quietly at their desks...
[10:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> "...and if they are, we should stop them now," Eudial says, the last part of her sentence heard as you enter.
[10:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> Turning from the conversation, Tellu notes the new arrivals. "Hi," she says, breaking from the chat.
[10:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami nods, sending a quick smile to the others. "Morning," she says, glancing at Makoto after hearing Eudial's comment.
[10:38] * Makoto gives off no signs of reacting and simply grabs a chair and plops down. "When is Usagi getting here?" she asks Ami, ignoring the witches.
[10:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Soon," Ami says, sending an apologetic glance to the Witches. She glances at her watch. "It's 7:30 now, no more than an hour or so, Mako-chan."
[10:40] * Makoto sighs.
[10:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> The other girls glance at her, then very quietly go back to their discussion. Meanwhile, Ami debates a moment before sitting next to Makoto, quietly just being nearby her and helping any way she can. The time drags by.
[10:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> At 9, still no Usagi. Ami is looking at her watch frequently, and the other girls are pacing. The Professor arrives at this time as well, waiting for the other two girls...it's not until 10ish, and some considerable muttering, before Rei and Usagi come in.
[10:42] * Usagi-chan bursts into the office, panting as she rests her hands on her knees. "Sorry... we're late..."
[10:44] * Rei-chan nods with Usagi's apology, though doesn't say why they were late.
[10:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> The girls nod, not wanting to go off track over it. Cyprine takes the helm, however. "You said you know who the elves are now?" she asks right off the bat.
[10:46] * Usagi-chan takes a minute to catch her breath, nodding as she does so.
[10:46] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Rei nods, her face still a bit flushed. "Their names are Alan and Ann Grangier - recent transfer students to Juuban Middle," she looks over at Makoto to see how the brunette is doing today as she speaks.
[10:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> "They're humans?" Eudial asks, a bit surprised. "They sure haven't looked it."
[10:48] <Usagi-chan> "They're probably using some sort of magic to disguise themselves as humans - the Dark Kingdom used to do the same thing." Usagi replies.
[10:48] <Rei-chan> "We don't really know much else about them," Rei again looks at Makoto, this time seeming slightly uncomfortable.
[10:49] * Makoto snorts at Rei's comment, but that's about all she does.
[10:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That would make sense," The Professor comments. "It's certainly feasible." After saying that, he nods and goes on. "So, now they can be stopped."
[10:51] <Usagi-chan> "Except that we have to decide how. We..." Usagi looks over at Makoto, giving the brunette a sympathetic glance. "We can't just kill them."
[10:51] * Makoto winces a bit, and turns to look away from the group.
[10:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Why's that," Viluy asks, "Are they controlled like we were?"
[10:53] <Rei-chan> "We don't know," Rei sighs, "But they can't be all bad. I mean..." she trails off, looking at Makoto. 'Makoto wouldn't have fallen in love with one of them otherwise...'
[10:54] <Makoto> "It's because I'm dating Alan Grangier," Makoto replies, though she continues to look away from all the faces.
[10:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> There is a moment of silence as the girls take this in. "Oh... oh dear," Tellu manages. "That could be a problem," Viluy chips in.
[10:55] * Makoto snorts. 'Yeah, now that's an understatement.'
[10:56] * Rei-chan nods slowly. "We need to find out why they drain people's energy, and convince them to stop it."
[10:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Any ideas, Rei," Ami asks at that.
[10:58] <Usagi-chan> Seeing as Makoto doesn't seem particularly interested in sharing her reasons with the group as a whole, she speaks to Makoto mentally. 'Do you think he'd listen if you talked to him about it?'
[11:00] <Makoto> 'Who knows?' Makoto replies in the same disinterested tone she's been using overall. 'I'd like to think so, but what do I really know about Alan?'
[11:01] * Usagi-chan sighs. 'You know him better than any of the rest of us do, Mako-chan. I know he means a lot to you, and I don't want to see him get hurt, but we have to do something.'
[11:01] * Rei-chan looks thoughtful at Ami's question, "I guess we could confront them directly, but... they've never seemed much inclined to talk about their motivations before..."
[11:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> "They have to have some reason for doing this, though," Eudial says, shaking her head. "Something they need energy for."
[11:06] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Rei nods. "If they need it to summon some evil overlord, I think we can convince them to stop, but what if draining the life from others is simply the only way they can survive?" she finishes worriedly.
[11:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> There is another pause. "If that's so," Professor Tomoe supplies, "Perhaps we can devise another method to supply them energy?"
[11:08] <Usagi-chan> "I'd be all for that if we can do it." Usagi nods.
[11:08] <Rei-chan> "You think it's possible?" Rei gives the Professor a hopeful look.
[11:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I don't know for sure," he admits frankly, "But I could certainly try."
[11:11] <Usagi-chan> "Then we're going to have to talk to them." Usagi gives Makoto a pointed look.
[11:12] * Makoto snorts again. "Oh right, we'll just walk up to them and ask why they steal energy. That'll work over well..."
[11:12] <Rei-chan> "It'll go over better than kicking their door down and blasting the hell out of them," Rei says pointedly.
[11:12] <Usagi-chan> "Well, what do you suggest we do then?" Usagi says with a hint of exasperation.
[11:15] * Makoto simply shrugs. 'I'd probably just confront him actually,' she admits in her thoughts.
[11:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We should act today," Cyprine chips in, "Before another attack has to be stopped by us."
[11:16] <Usagi-chan> 'Do you want anyone to come with you when you do it? We'll be nearby if you do, but I can come along for moral support if you want me to.' Usagi thinks back to the brunette.
[11:17] * Makoto simply shrugs.
[11:18] * Usagi-chan sighs mentally. 'I'm just trying to help, Mako-chan. Cyprine's right - this needs to be done today, before there are any more attacks.'
[11:19] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, they got hurt yesterday, if they really need energy that badly they'll act to gain more so they can recover faster. We need to put a stop to it before more people are hurt," Rei nods to Cyprine.
[11:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We're amazed the elf survived the shot, so he must be badly hurt," Cyprine nods to Rei.
[11:20] <Makoto> 'Not like there's going to be any attacks today, they have plans with their dates, after all, don't they?' Makoto thinks back, unable to keep back the biting sarcasm.
[11:21] * Usagi-chan frowns at the brunette. 'Makoto! We're trying to do this so NO ONE has to get hurt.' Usagi thinks reproachfully.
[11:23] * Makoto shrugs again. 'Sorry,' she thinks back, even if she doesn't seem to look like she means it.
[11:24] * Usagi-chan keeps her eyes fixed on Makoto. "We're going to go talk to them after lunch," she says with a tone of finality.
[11:24] <Rei-chan> "Okay," Rei turns to Usagi. "Who's going?"
[11:25] <Usagi-chan> "I am, for one. If they're brainwashed for real, I'll need to be there to take care of that. Are you going, Makoto?"
[11:26] * Makoto shrugs uncommittedly. 'I'd still rather deal with him on my own.'
[11:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We'd like to go," Cyprine speaks up. "And see that our... unfinished business concludes one way or another."
[11:28] * Usagi-chan nods to Cyprine. "It might be best if you stayed out of sight, at least until we can talk to them. Seeing you there might spook them." Turning back to Makoto, she scowls. 'And what are you going to do if they attack you? You can't handle both of them by yourself, Mako-chan - and I don't want YOU getting hurt either.'
[11:29] <Makoto> 'Too late for that, I think. What's a few physical scars after this?'
[11:30] <Rei-chan> "You guys can stay back with me in case diplomacy fails," Rei says, going to stand with Cyprine. "I think no more than three people should confront them, with the rest of us nearby if we're needed."
[11:30] * Usagi-chan sighs. 'I know it hurts, Makoto - I've been there. But you don't need to charge off by yourself either - no matter what Alan did, we're still your friends, and we want to help you.'
[11:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That sounds good, Rei," Cyprine agrees.
[11:40] <Makoto> 'You can't do much more than what you've already done for me...' Makoto thinks, with a sad smile on her face that the others wouldn't be able to see because of how she's looking away.
[11:41] <Usagi-chan> 'That doesn't mean I won't try, Mako-chan.' Usagi falls silent for a moment. 'If you want to talk to him alone first, I understand - but I'm going to be close no matter what happens. I don't want you getting hurt if I can do anything about it.'
[11:46] <Makoto> '...Fine,' Makoto thinks. After a long pause, she adds, 'Usagi?'
[11:47] <Usagi-chan> 'Hmm?' The blonde turns back to Makoto, a curious expression on her face.
[11:48] <Makoto> '...thanks. For everything.'
[11:48] * Usagi-chan smiles. 'You don't have to thank me for anything, Mako-chan.'
[12:03] * Usagi-chan turns to the rest of the group. "All right... Makoto is going to go talk to Alan alone first, and the rest of us will stay nearby. If she needs help, she can contact me and the rest of us will come running."
[12:04] <Rei-chan> "Okay," Rei nods her assent to the plan, "You just better be careful, Mako-chan," she fixes the brunette with a piercing look.
[12:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> As the girls chat, Ami frowns. 'I forgot about Herb,' Ami thinks, with a mental curse. Whipping out her communicator, she calls the Sailor of Dragons.
[12:19] <Princess_Herb> "Hi Ami-chan," says Herb. "What's up?"
[12:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We're discussing the elves at Mugen. Can you come down here?" Ami asks, nodding to Herb's greeting. "And..." she lowers her voice. "Makoto isn't taking it too well."
[12:21] <Princess_Herb> "All right, I'll be with you as soon as I can." Herb says, wondering what degree of 'not taking it too well' to expect.
[12:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'll meet you at the gate," Ami nods, cutting off the signal.
[12:24] * Princess_Herb arrives at Mugen post-haste, and after greeting the Princess of Mercury, makes her way down to where the others are.
[12:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> The others are still talking a bit, while Makoto and Usagi are close together...
[12:27] * Princess_Herb walks in a little nervously, casting worried glances at Makoto.
[12:28] <Princess_Herb> "Hello there. What's up?"
[12:28] * Usagi-chan is talking quietly with Makoto, trying to reassure the taller girl.
[12:30] <Rei-chan> "We're deciding what to do about our pair of energy vampires," Rei tells Herb from where she stands next to Cyprine.
[12:32] <Princess_Herb> "How far have we gotten?" Herb asks.
[12:33] <Rei-chan> "Makoto's going to confront Alan at their apartment this afternoon, and the rest of us are going to stay nearby in case the elves don't want to talk," Rei says, her tone faintly grim.
[12:35] <Princess_Herb> "I can't see that working very well, unless we have more information to go on than before." Herb says, almost with a sigh
[12:36] <Princess_Herb> "Is this what Mako-chan wants to do?"
[12:36] <Usagi-chan> "Then what would you suggest, Herb? We've got to act fast, and I'm not too eager to go in and just blast them." Usagi says with some asperity.
[12:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes, regardless....we cannot allow these attacks to prey on Tokyo any more," Professor Tomoe asserts.
[12:39] * Rei-chan nods her agreement with that sentiment.
[12:40] * Princess_Herb suppresses an urge to glower at the professor. "I suggested the information gathering raid on the apartment, your majesty."
[12:41] <Rei-chan> 'I don't think we can learn anything at the apartment that one of us hasn't already seen,' Rei thinks with a glance at Makoto.
[12:41] * Usagi-chan sighs. "And what does gathering information get for us? All it does is put off the inevitable - we're going to have to confront them sooner or later."
[12:42] * Rei-chan spares a quick glance at the other Witches to see how they reacted to Herb calling Usagi 'your Majesty'.
[12:42] <Princess_Herb> "You could find out more about their motivations and maybe the source of their power, and be in a better position to confront them."
[12:42] <Princess_Herb> "You are right, though. The confrontation must come soon. Do you want me to lure Ann away?"
[12:50] * Usagi-chan thinks for a minute. "If Makoto wants to talk to Alan alone - which is probably a good idea - that would help. It'll be easier to deal with them one at a time."
[12:51] <Rei-chan> "Are you going to confront Ann about this, Herb?" Rei asks.
[12:52] <Princess_Herb> "Not unless you think I should, Mars-hime." Herb says. "I think Alan is more likely to talk than Ann."
[12:53] * Usagi-chan looks over at Makoto, placing a hand gently on her back.
[12:53] <Rei-chan> "Right," Rei nods, "That's good - it means the rest of us won't have to divide our attention in that case."
[12:58] * Usagi-chan shakes her head and sighs. "Not exactly what I had in mind when I wanted to talk with everyone today..." she mutters to herself ruefully.
[13:00] <Rei-chan> "I know," Rei walks over and puts a hand on Usagi's shoulder. 'You'll get other opportunities, though.'
[13:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Planning something, Usagi," Eudial catches this, a touch curious.
[13:07] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, I really wanted to talk to all of you about something - but it'll have to wait. This is more important." Usagi sighs.
[13:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Do you have something in mind, Usagi," The Professor speaks up, now curious himself. "We do have this business, but we have time yet to talk."
[13:21] <Usagi-chan> "It's... well, we were going to show you, but there's not really time today. It's got a lot to do with why we're senshi and what that means - it's kind of a long story."
[13:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> He ponders this, then nods. "We'll talk about that," he agrees, thinking.
[13:25] <Rei-chan> "It's something that we'd like to have your input on," Rei adds, still standing supportively by Usagi, "But we can't let ourselves get sidetracked, today."
[13:26] * Usagi-chan glances around at the others in the room. "Is there any particular time when you might be able to hear me out? I mean, since we're all together at the moment anyway, we might as well try to set up the next time to talk."
[13:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> A bit of chatter. "We could probably get together tomorrow if it's that important," Viluy offers.
[13:29] <Usagi-chan> "Well, it's important to me personally, but it's not life-threatening or anything," Usagi admits.
[13:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We'll talk about it later, then," they conclude, not unkindly. "Let's just keep on this right now," is the general agreement.
[13:56] * Princess_Herb walks over to the professor. "I've been meaning to ask you a favour, Tomoe-sensei. I feel a little out of the loop without some Mugen connection, and I was wondering if you could think of anything I could usefully do?"
[13:57] <Princess_Herb> "My studies and senshi duties take up a lot of my time, so I can't ask for something major to do."
[14:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hm," he looks up, interested. "Sailor Dragon, correct?"
[14:02] * Princess_Herb nods.
[14:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> "If you're really intersted, I could offer you a part time position here," he suggests.
[14:07] <Princess_Herb> "Doing what?" Herb asks. "Teaching t'ai chi?"
[14:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Gym class and related activities?" he shrugs. "That could work, if you would like."
[14:13] <Princess_Herb> "Sure!" Herbs says. "There's going to be a certain amount of difficulty with my curse, though, you know."
[14:13] * Princess_Herb thinks. "You do know about that, right?"
[14:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "Usagi had mentioned it," he says, "Truthfully, I'd forgotten about it with all that has been going on. What exactly does it do?"
[14:27] * Princess_Herb explains about the curse, hot and cold water, about the locking ladle and unlocking kettle and Uncle Tom Cobbley and all.
[14:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> Tomoe takes it in, his own expriences with magic showing him that something like that isn't too out of the insane.
[14:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That would be a pain to explain," he agrees, "but it could be worked around."
[14:39] <Princess_Herb> "Worked around?" Herb asks, curiously, hoping that Tomoe-sensei isn't thinking what she thinks he's thinking.
[14:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's unlikely you'd come in contact with hot water," he nods. "Cold water, yes, hot water? Not so likely."
[14:44] <Princess_Herb> "You'd be surprised, Tomoe-sensei.   Coffee, tea, all those things have a tendency to show up in profusion around me. What exactly do you have in mind?"
[14:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We need a coach for the swimming gym section, and that could be expanded easily enough," he says.
[14:47] <Princess_Herb> "Right. That means I might as well stay in my girl form anyway..." Herb considers it. "I'll do it."
[14:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "Alright, we can set you up Monday."
[14:49] * Princess_Herb bows to the professor.
[14:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> -----------
[15:50] <Rei-chan> After making their plans to deal with the elves in the afternoon, the assembled magical girls break up for lunch. While most of them take advantage of Mugen's excellent cafeteria, Usagi and Rei elect to visit a small cafe a few minutes' walk from the school in order to have a little privacy.
[15:51] * Usagi-chan takes Rei's hand shyly as the two walk, memories of the night before returning after the serious business of the senshi has been taken care of.
[15:52] * Rei-chan also feels her thoughts return to a similar tangent now that distractions aren't present. "Y'know, today's been a whole lot more hectic than I would have liked," she remakrs conversationally as the pair enter the cafe.
[15:53] <Usagi-chan> "Boy, tell me about it. I mean, between getting up late and then your grandpa," here she blushes, "talking to us this morning, it's seemed like we've been running all day."
[15:55] <Rei-chan> "I know," Rei nods, leading Usagi to a quiet booth so they can talk in peace. "I really just wanted a chance to quietly relax today. Especially after..." she trails off blushing as she notes a waitress approaching them.
[15:57] <Usagi-chan> "...yeah." Usagi says quietly as the waitress comes up to their table.
[15:59] <Rei-chan> "I'll have some tea and a sweet roll," Rei says to the waitress, before pausing. "Actually, make that two rolls and a slice of chocolate cake," she corrects herself, noting that she feels a lot hungrier than she usually does at lunchtime.
[16:00] <Usagi-chan> "Iced tea and a double order of nikuman." Usagi gives the waitress her order. "And another slice of chocolate cake."
[16:01] <Rei-chan> After the waitress departs, Rei turns back to Usagi. "We never even had a chance for breakfast, did we?" she sighs.
[16:03] * Usagi-chan frowns. "We barely had time to get cleaned up, much less get something to eat."
[16:03] <Rei-chan> "I guess we tired ourselves out quite a bit, even if we did fall asleep early," Rei comments with a roguish grin at the blonde.
[16:04] * Usagi-chan blushes. "Yeah... but it was definitely worth it." She smiles at the miko shyly.
[16:07] <Rei-chan> "I think so, too," Rei smiles fondly, reaching over to take Usagi's hand before frowning slightly as she notices her sleeve doesn't quite reach her wrist, while Usagi's is rather baggy. "Uhm, by the way... I think we're wearing each other's tops," she adds, blushing.
[16:08] * Usagi-chan looks down at herself, surprised. "I never noticed... I was in such a hurry I just grabbed what was there." She blushes as she remembers something else from that morning. 'And a pair of your panties, too - mine kind of weren't any good to wear.' she thinks to the miko.
[16:14] <Rei-chan> "Well it's my fault for grabbing your top first," Rei says, blushing as her gaze travels down to Usagi's lap. 'Yeah, that's understandable...'
[16:15] * Usagi-chan blushes a bit deeper as she sees what Rei is looking at. 'Rei! It's not like you can see them NOW...' she thinks indignantly.
[16:17] <Rei-chan> 'I know! I know!' Rei thinks apologetically, her head shooting up once more. 'Although I can easily fill in details...' she adds after a moment, before letting out a quiet "eep!" as the waitress approaches with their orders, even though she hadn't actually said anything out loud.
[16:18] * Usagi-chan stares at the table, completely mortified by the line of Rei's thinking. 'This is... really awkward now.' she thinks.
[16:20] * Rei-chan looks rather saddened by that. "It shouldn't be," she says earnestly, taking Usagi's hand as the waitress leaves. "We... we shared the most intimate and beautiful experience possible last night. I don't want you to feel awkward with me, Usagi."
[16:21] <Usagi-chan> "I don't..." Usagi clasps Rei's hand. "It's just... I don't know, it all seems different now somehow." She gives the miko a hesitant smile. "It's not BAD, I guess I'm just not used to it yet."
[16:23] <Rei-chan> "Do you wish we could go back to the way things were before?" Rei asks, a slight quaver in her voice betraying her nervousness.
[16:24] * Usagi-chan hesitates for a moment, then shakes her head. "No... I wouldn't give up... what we shared last night for anything, Rei-chan." She smiles at her love, her eyes shining. "Not for anything in the world."
[16:27] <Rei-chan> "I'm glad," Rei releases a tension-filled breath she hadn't realised she was holding. "Everything's different, but I like it. I just..." she gives Usagi a vibrant smile that lights up her face, "I just feel so much more alive today. Like something that's been missing for so long I forgot it was even there has been replaced."
[16:30] * Usagi-chan nods shyly. "It's like the whole world is new - everything seems different and exciting." She caresses the back of Rei's hand with her thumb. "Thank you."
[16:32] <Rei-chan> "You're welcome," Rei cups Usagi's head in one hand and leans in to kiss her cheek. "And thank you," she adds before turning to regard her lunch.
[16:33] * Usagi-chan smiles, blushing slightly as she takes an interest in her own food. "I was more than happy to do it." she says quietly before starting in on her lunch at a relatively sedate pace.
[16:37] <Rei-chan> "I think it made us both very happy," Rei smirks as she picks up one of her rolls and begins eating, sipping her tea inbetween bites. "What are you going to tell your parents about where you were last night?" she asks after a moment.
[16:38] <Usagi-chan> "I'll probably just tell them I was busy - it's not the first time I've been out all night since Ami and I started working on the palace." Usagi shrugs. "Usually I tell them first, but hopefully that'll be good enough."
[16:39] <Rei-chan> "Ah," Rei nods, looking relieved. "That's good. I wouldn't want you to get in trouble."
[16:41] <Usagi-chan> "My parents have been pretty flexible since I told them about my 'other job'." Usagi smiles a bit. "It's kind of nice not to have to explain where I am and what I'm doing all the time."
[16:44] * Rei-chan nods. "Yeah, Grandpa's good about stuff like that as well," she frowns slightly, "Well, even if he can be really embarrassing, it's still nice to know he supports me no matter what."
[16:44] * Usagi-chan makes a face. "I appreciate the thought, but I'm NOT going to take you to some cheesy love hotel," she grumbles.
[16:46] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, I don't want to go to a place like that," Rei nods, grimacing slightly. "I guess we'll have to go to the Moon in future, since your house is right out, and I really don't want to have to 'keep it down' when we're doing that."
[16:48] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling a bit. "We'll have 'royal' accomodations, and there's certainly no chance of anyone being bothered by the noise there." She giggles a bit.
[16:49] <Rei-chan> "We can be as loud as we like," Rei nods, starting on her second roll.
[16:50] * Usagi-chan grins. "Even if someone else WAS in the palace, it's so big that they wouldn't be able to hear us unless they were right on top of us anyway." 'And besides, with both of us up there it'd probably take everyone else working together to teleport up there in the first place.'
[16:55] <Rei-chan> 'Well, two of can teleport without using that magic spell of yours, but it's so draining that it'd only get done in emergencies,' Rei replies, sipping her tea.
[16:56] * Usagi-chan nibbles at one of her nikuman. 'That's what I mean - doing it that way is a one-way trip usually. It's a real pain to teleport like that.'
[16:59] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Rei nods, "I remember that time we went up by ourselves just before Christmas. We were stuck there for hours before we could go back."
[17:00] <Usagi-chan> "You remember that too, huh?" Usagi smiles.
[17:13] <Rei-chan> "That was a real pain," Rei pouts, "You were able to just take a peaceful nap while we waited, but I was scared stiff... kept jumping at shadows everywhere," she grumbles.
[17:14] <Usagi-chan> "I'm sorry... I didn't even think about it back then." Usagi frowns slightly. "At least you're not worried about the Moon anymore, right?"
[17:14] <Rei-chan> "No," Rei shakes her head, giving Usagi an honest smile. "I'm completely over all that, now."
[17:16] <Usagi-chan> "Well, good." Usagi returns the smile. "I just remember being so concerned about what to do about it that I never stopped to think what anyone else thought about the Moon."
[17:18] <Rei-chan> "Some really horrible memories there," Rei says, twirling a few strand of raven hair between her fingers. "But I've put them to rest. It doesn't have any influence over me at all, now."
[17:21] * Usagi-chan reaches across the table, taking Rei's hand and giving it a gentle squeeze. "I'm really glad, Rei-chan." She giggles a bit. "Besides, you look a lot better with black hair!"
[17:22] <Rei-chan> "I do, don't I?" Rei cheerfully agrees, beginning to start in on her chocolate cake.
[17:23] * Usagi-chan grins and polishes off the last of her nikuman, taking a long draught of her iced tea. "You're the very picture of a Japanese beauty." She winks at her girlfriend.
[17:24] <Rei-chan> "And you're the very picture of a Lunar beauty," Rei replies, matching the wink.
[17:25] * Usagi-chan giggles, blushing a bit. "Well, I'm the ONLY Lunar beauty anymore..." She sticks her tongue out a bit.
[17:29] <Rei-chan> "Doesn't make the sentiments behind what I just said any less true," Rei protests. After a moment she sobers slightly, their meal nearly finished and the thought of what they'll soon be doing coming back to the forefront of her mind. "How do you think things will go with Makoto and Alan?"
[17:30] * Usagi-chan picks at her cake with her fork. "...I don't know. I can't imagine that he doesn't care about her if they... slept together, but I never would have thought he was actually one of those elves either." She gives a heartfelt sigh. "I hope she can manage to talk some sense into him."
[17:34] <Rei-chan> "I can't believe they're really all bad," Rei says, "I mean, Makoto saw something to love in him. Surely it can't have just been a lie?"
[17:36] * Usagi-chan nods. "That's what I'm thinking, too. And if he really does love her, too, then he'll listen to her."
[17:37] <Rei-chan> "I hope so... and then there's Ann..." Rei sighs. "Just remembering what she did to Ami-chan at that restaurant makes me shiver..."
[17:38] <Usagi-chan> "And yesterday, too - she looked like she must have been in really bad shape before I healed her." Usagi frowns.
[17:40] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Rei frowns. "Ann nearly blasted Ami from behind - I only just got her out of the way. And then when I faced off against Ann she said she'd been saving something special 'just for me'," she makes a face, "I guess I just have that effect on people. That blast was a heck of a lot bigger, and I just barely managed to dodge it... but Ami-chan was too close to where it went off."
[17:41] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I could hear you guys fighting with her, but Mako-chan and I were too busy with those little furry things to really pay any real attention. I'm just glad you stayed behind to watch our backs." Usagi smiles at the miko.
[17:44] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, a projection of Alan showed up right near the beginning of the fight and looked like he was about to try and drain your energy, but I sent him packing. At least for a little while..." Rei frowns. "Say, what was that thing you did where you blasted one of those monsters into another? I've never seen you do that before."
[17:45] * Usagi-chan looks up in surprise for a minute. "Hmm?" she says, a forkful of cake in her mouth.
[17:46] <Rei-chan> "You just sort of shot some energy that hit one of them and knocked it into another," Rei clarifies, "I didn't see that well since I was mostly looking around for the elves, but I'm pretty sure that's what happened."
[17:47] * Usagi-chan blushes a bit. "I didn't even think about it, I just used that..." she mumbles.
[17:47] <Rei-chan> "Huh?" Rei looks at Usagi curiously.
[17:48] <Usagi-chan> "Do you remember what happened the first time we fought Oxyite?" she asks.
[17:49] <Rei-chan> "Yeah..." Rei grimaces, a hand resting on her stomach. "Oh!" she looks up at Usagi excitedly, "You mean like that big blast you made? You've figured out how to do it with more control?"
[17:49] * Usagi-chan nods shyly. "I've been practicing it for a while by myself up on the Moon."
[17:52] <Rei-chan> "That's great, Usagi," the miko gives her love a big approving smile. "It looked like you had it working with quite a bit of precision, too."
[17:53] <Usagi-chan> "Well, I HAVE been working on it for a few months now." Usagi makes a face. "Took me forever to learn how to do it small."
[17:56] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, well, it's not like some of the places up there can get much more trashed. Using the Moon to practice things like that is a pretty clever idea."
[17:57] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit. "I put holes in a couple of the walls over on the far side of the palace before I learned how to tone it down. And I DEFINITELY never practiced it inside - I didn't want to blow any more roofs off."
[17:58] <Rei-chan> "I'd almost wonder how telescopes down here never picked up on all the blasts, but since no one's ever seen the palace itself before I guess it makes sense," Rei comments, finishing off the last of her cake.
[17:59] * Usagi-chan nods. "I only tried unleashing it like I did at the apartment building one other time, way out on the grounds."
[18:00] <Rei-chan> "I remember that wiped you out pretty badly," Rei gives Usagi a concerned look, "Were you alright?"
[18:01] * Usagi-chan nods. "I was rested up before I tried it... but let's just say I'm never going to do that again." Usagi looks rather embarrassed.
[18:02] <Rei-chan> "How big was the blast?" Rei asks, getting an idea of why Usagi would make that declaration.
[18:02] * Usagi-chan thinks for a minute. "You know the lake over in Juuban Park?"
[18:03] <Rei-chan> "Yeah?" Rei nods slowly, wondering if Usagi's going to say something like 'Ten times as big as that!'
[18:05] <Usagi-chan> "Let's just say I could fit a couple of dozen of them in the crater." Usagi blushes and lowers her head.
[18:08] <Rei-chan> "Wow..." Rei lets out an awed breath. "Yeah... definitely don't want to use that in Tokyo."
[18:09] * Usagi-chan nods. "I kind of didn't want to try the little bolts until I was positive I could keep them under control, but I just didn't think about it yesterday - there were too many of the little furry things to use my tiara or my scepter on."
[18:12] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, I could see that," Rei replies, glancing at the clock out of the corner of her eye. "I think we should head on back, now. The others are probably getting ready."
[18:14] * Usagi-chan nods. "I guess so - can't believe the time went by so fast." She fishes her pocketbook out of her bag.
[18:15] * Rei-chan likewise takes her purse out, producing enough yen to pay for her lunch as she rises from her seat and heads over to the counter.
[18:16] * Usagi-chan grumbles at the rather empty condition of her pocketbook. "Remind me to check in with Artemis when we have time..."
[18:17] <Rei-chan> "Want me to pay for yours?" Rei asks, "I think I have enough on me."
[18:17] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I have enough, it just reminded me."
[18:18] <Rei-chan> "Okay," Rei nods, handing over her money to the girl at the counter.
[18:21] * Usagi-chan gives the cashier a smile as she pays for her own meal, following Rei outside the cafe. She stretches as she comes out into the early spring sunlight. "Well, I guess it's time..."
[18:21] <Rei-chan> "Yep. I just hope things will work out okay for Mako-chan," Rei replies as the pair head back to Mugen.
[08:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[08:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> 2 PM is the time when you arrive at the apartment building that houses the two elves. Meaningless enough to most of the girls except as a target, although it holds special meaning for one...
[08:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nothing of note impedes you going upstairs, the top floor quiet on the Saturday afternoon.
[08:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> The door to the apartment almost looms, Herb's duty clear. The other girls position themselves away while he does the deed.
[08:41] * Prince_Herb rings the doorbell.
[08:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> The ringing chime echos once. A few moments later, the door cracks to reveal the head of Ann Grangier. "Yeah... oh, hi, Herb," Ann perks up a bit. "It's still early, isn't it?"
[08:46] <Prince_Herb> "It is, but you said you wanted to see my collection of elf stuff first," says Herb. "Besides, I couldn't keep myself away from your beautiful presence a moment longer."
[08:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Oh yeah," she smiles, opening the door up. "Come in, Herb," she nods, the door to her home wide open. Inside, you see a spacious, fairly typical apartment, with a few couches, a balcony, a TV, and a few doors, likely to bedrooms. As well, the kitchen is merged into a corner of the living room.
[08:50] * Prince_Herb steps inside.
[08:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hold on, and I'll make you some tea," she offers, going to the kitchenette. Notably, as you sit at the couch, Alan is nowhere to be seen.
[08:51] <Prince_Herb> "Thanks." Herb says, bowing.
[08:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> She works on the tea, taking a few minutes. She then comes over with a tray, a glass of warm tea and a glass of cold water for herself. She gently puts the tray down, offering you the tea.
[08:53] * Prince_Herb accepts the tea and takes a small sip
[08:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> She smiles, taking her own glass of cold water and sipping it. "So, you have that elf stuff on you," she asks, "but I don't see anything anywhere."
[08:57] <Prince_Herb> "No, it's a bit much to carry. I thought we'd head on over to my place, and you could study it all at your leisure, and work out if you wanted to borrow any stuff."
[09:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods. "Makes sense," she says, getting up... and stumbling a bit! "Gah," she yelps, her cup of water flying right at Herb! (DCV check, +2 mod to avoid, if you're going to try and dodge it.)
[09:02] * Prince_Herb doesn't dodge, but times things so that he spills the tea so that he just flickers, like Ann did in the restaurant.
[09:02] <Prince_Herb> roll 2d6
[09:02] * Hatbot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[09:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann quickly balances herself, looking up at the wet and still male Herb. "Ah, damn," she mutters, "Sorry about that. Let me get you a towel."
[09:04] <Prince_Herb> "It's nothing to worry about," Herb says, "but a towel would be a very good idea."
[09:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann goes, disappearing into one of the doors briefly and coming back with a nice fluffy white towel.
[09:06] <Prince_Herb> "Thanks." Herb says. "You've no idea how often that kind of thing happens to me."
[09:07] <Prince_Herb> "I'll need to look out a fresh shirt at home, though."
[09:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Let's go, then," she agrees, brushing off her purple shirt.
[09:09] * Prince_Herb escorts the lovely Ann down to the waiting Ferrari, and drives off, leaving the other senshi to make their move.
[09:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> The other girls see Herb and Ann go off, leaving the apartment...
[09:10] * Usagi-chan nods to Makoto. 'Good luck, Mako-chan. Call me if you need anything.' Usagi gives the brunette a smile.
[09:10] * Rei-chan gives Makoto an encouraging smile. "Good luck."
[09:12] * Makoto nods, taking a deep breath with her eyes closed, before opening them, and heading to the apartment door of Alan's home. She knocks gingerly on the door and waits.
[09:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> About a minute passes, with no answer.
[09:13] * Makoto knocks a bit harder, calling out, "Alan? Are you in there?"
[09:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> Another minute or so. Nothing at all, no answer or opening door.
[09:14] * Makoto sighs. 'Looks like he's not here, Usagi.'
[09:15] * Usagi-chan thinks to the group as a whole. 'Mako-chan says it looks like he's out - do we want to look in their apartment while Ann's gone, then?'
[09:15] <Rei-chan> "Might as well," Rei shrugs, approaching the door and trying to sense anything inside the apartment.
[09:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Soul check, Rei. +4.
[09:16] * Usagi-chan follows Rei.
[09:16] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+4
[09:16] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+4 and gets 11."
[09:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> You sense something... very vague, and totally blurry. It's just an odd feeling, almost.
[09:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cyprine looks on, following mutely enough. She seems unfazed, generally, watching on as Rei does her thing.
[09:17] <Rei-chan> "There's definitely something odd in there," Rei says, putting her hand against the door as she tries to telekinetically unlock it.
[09:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> A quick bit of work tells you that the door is unlocked.
[09:18] * Rei-chan blushes, opening the door. "Okay, let's have a look around..." she enters the apartment, trying to localise the odd feeling she's getting.
[09:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's a normal enough apartment, as you'd expect. Nothing too strange...
[09:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei - Soul check again. Same as before.
[09:19] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+4
[09:19] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+4 and gets 14."
[09:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei - Only the vaguest sense of something pings the back of your senses, nothing more.
[09:20] * Rei-chan takes the nearest door and opens it, looking into the room beyond.
[09:20] * Makoto looks quietly around, and after a while, heads to Alan's room.
[09:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> There are three doors. The one Rei chooses opens into a nice, two bed bedroom. A few CDs are scattered on the floor with a CD player... Snow White is one, and a Full Moon CD is another.
[09:21] * Usagi-chan looks around the apartment curiously, finding it more... normal than she'd have expected for the two energy vampires.
[09:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Makoto almost runs into Rei, as she chose the same door.
[09:22] <Rei-chan> Frowning slightly, Rei picks the next door and repeats her cursory inspection.
[09:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> The second door is a bathroom. Nothing of note as well.
[09:22] <Makoto> "What are we looking for exactly?" Makoto asks, seeing as Alan isn't going to be around.
[09:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> The third door is on the other wall, a bit away from the rest.
[09:23] <Rei-chan> "I have no idea," Rei says apologetically. "Something weird, I guess..." she goes to the third door and opens it.
[09:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's locked.
[09:23] <Usagi-chan> "Hmmm..." Usagi closes her eyes, extending her senses to try and see if Alan is anywhere nearby.
[09:24] <Rei-chan> "Hmm..." Rei puts her palm against the door as she tries to unlock the door with her telekinetic abilities.
[09:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Soul check, rabbit, +4
[09:24] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+4
[09:24] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+4 and gets 8."
[09:25] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6-2
[09:25] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6-2 and gets 2."
[09:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> Usagi senses Alan behind the door, just barely. It's hard to read anything past it...
[09:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> The door clicks unlocked to Rei's efforts easily enough. The other girls stand right behind you, waiting...
[09:26] * Rei-chan opens the door and peers inside.
[09:27] <Usagi-chan> "Alan's in there... hard to sense in there though." Usagi murmurs, her eyes still closed.
[09:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> The door opens smoothly, revealing outer space! Stars glitter in the black night in this void, a huge tree floating a bit away from the door. It's at least as big as this apartment building, if not bigger, taking up much of the view! It looks somewhat sickly at parts, half of it in low bloom and half of it withering... A mass of spiritual readings hit you the moment you open the door, like a floodgate.
[09:29] <Rei-chan> "I'd say this qualifies as weird..." Rei gasps, taking in the view and the spiritual impression she is getting.
[09:29] * Makoto hears Usagi's statement, and moves towards the door, where Rei is standing by.
[09:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cyprine takes a small breath. "A pocket dimension?" she says, glancing inside."Ptilol, this is quite fascinating..."
[09:30] <Usagi-chan> "What?" Usagi's eyes snap open at the comments flying around. She gasps as she catches sight of the enormous tree in space beyond the door. "...whoa."
[09:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> In front of the tree's midsection, Alan the elf floats, laying down as energy from the tree wraps around him...gentle white energy going all over his body.
[09:32] * Rei-chan steps aside as Makoto approaches the door. "Well, I guess this is your show, now, Mako-chan..."
[09:33] * Usagi-chan studies the flow of energy, wondering exactly what's going on.
[09:33] <Makoto> Something knots in Makoto's stomach as she watches this, and she nods to Rei. Her body trembles a bit, before she steps forward, calling out quietly, "...Alan?"
[09:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> Usagi - Energy from the tree is flowing into Alan. Past that, you can't really tell.
[09:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> Stepping into the black emptiness ahead, Makoto finds herself floating towards the tree, like iron to a magnet.
[09:35] <Makoto> 'W-wha...?' Makoto briefly thinks before shrugging it off. If it'll let her get closer to Alan...
[09:35] * Rei-chan watches tensely, ready to act if Alan does anything remotely threatening to her friend.
[09:35] * Makoto tries to call out his name again, this time with a slightly louder voice. "...Alan?"
[09:36] * Usagi-chan tenses, hoping nothing bad happens to Makoto as she drifts away from the doorway.
[09:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you are dragged to the tree, Alan doesn't stir. He looks to be sleeping. With a final pull, you land on a root near Alan, the elf just above you.
[09:38] * Rei-chan looks at the tree. "I almost think we should have brought Tellu, now," she comments quietly to Cyprine and Usagi.
[09:41] * Makoto places her hands around Alan's face, trying to sense just how different he is from the Alan she knows.
[09:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> The tree smells oddly good, like fresh flowers and fauna, though. Like Alan does, on a grander scale.
[09:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> On her tiptoes, Makoto is just able to reach his face. His face is fundamentally the same in construction, just green with different colored hair and elven ears. It's the same face, almost, that you made out with.
[09:42] <Usagi-chan> 'Are you all right, Mako-chan?' Usagi watches carefully.
[09:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you touch it, Alan's eyes open wide, his elven eyes shocked by your face being the first thing he sees! "Makoto?"
[09:43] <Makoto> 'I'm...fine,' Makoto thinks back, as she looks at Alan's face with some wonder, curious why she never caught on. "Alan... it really is you, isn't it?" she asks weakly.
[09:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Makoto?" he murmurs again, still a bit dazed. The flow of energy stops abruptly, the elf blinking a moment before appearing right in front of you. "What the hell are you doing here?"
[09:45] <Makoto> "I heard your song in the mall yesterday," Makoto says gently, though not really going too deeply into it. Her eyes seem to be moistening as she continues to hold Alan's face. "I saw you there. You'd said this was your song then."
[09:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan blanches, several thoughs raging in his green head. "Makoto... I'm sorry," he sighs, looking downward. "But..." he looks up, his eyes narrowing slightly, "If you were there to hear it..." All trace of sadness is gone from his voice now as his mind works overtime. "The only ones not drained there were the Sailor Scouts."
[09:49] * Usagi-chan's hand moves to her brooch as she overhears Alan. 'Get ready, Rei - this might get ugly in a minute.'
[09:50] * Rei-chan nods, flexing her hand as her pen appears in it, tensing for action.
[09:50] * Makoto doesn't pull her hands away. "...Yes," Makoto admits, as tears start falling down her face.
[09:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan looks away again, his face stricken. "Then...this is it, isn't it?" he says, sadly. "You'll want to stop us, and we can't stop." Slowly, Alan begins to float upward, away from you. For a moment, Alan smiles at you as he ascends upward to the tree. "It was fun, Makoto."
[09:53] <Makoto> "Alan, no!" Makoto cries out as she extends her arm trying to grab Alan. "Please..."
[09:54] <Usagi-chan> "Why can't you stop?" Usagi calls out from the doorway. "Why do you need energy?"
[09:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> Makoto's hand just grazes Alan's arm as he goes upward. "We can't let the tree die, or we'll die," he says simply. "Therefore, anyone who gets in our way..." Usagi's voice echos oddly in the void ahead, twisted from this distance.
[09:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[09:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> Meanwhile...
[09:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> As Prince Herb drives, nearly home, Ann suddenly drains of all color and turns her head. Quite strange...
[09:56] <Prince_Herb> "What's wrong, Ann?" Herb asks, though he suspects he knows
[09:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I have to go," she says quickly. At that, she's gone into thin air, the human girl doing something that no human should be able to!
[09:58] * Prince_Herb turns the car round and heads back the way he came, pausing only to warn Rei-chan that Ann is on her way via the communicator.
[09:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[09:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> As Alan says those last words, Rei's communicator goes off.
[09:59] * Rei-chan holds it up and answers. "Yes?" she says, still keeping half an eye on the drama by the tree.
[09:59] <Usagi-chan> "And this is the ONLY way you can keep the tree alive?" Usagi shouts, stepping into the void. "Come on, there's got to be another way! Have you tried anything else?"
[09:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> Again, Usagi's voice is muffled and twisted in the darkness, and she is begun to be dragged in the moment she steps in, treebound.
[10:01] * Makoto continues crying as she looks up at Alan. "I don't want this!" she yells.
[10:01] <Prince_Herb> "Ann teleported out of my car. She'll be with you any moment, I reckon!" Herb warns the senshi of Mars.
[10:01] <Rei-chan> "Right, things are coming to a head, here," Rei answers, shutting off her communicator and following Usagi into the void.
[10:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan looks down as the branches of the Doom Tree move around him, blossom filled branches surrounding and garbing the elf. "Neither do I, but it's too late!" is the last thing he says, the tree's branches beginning to move!

[Halbarad]

[10:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[10:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> Meanwhile, outside...
[10:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> The other Witches and Ami stand waiting... When there is a pulse from the top floor, branches and roots of a great tree engulfing the building!
[10:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Gah!" Eudial says, staring on at the change.
[10:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That means it's go time," Ami replies, getting her pen out and ducking back a bit more into the side alley they were watching from. "Mercury Power, Make UP!"
[10:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> The other Witches nod, Tellu spending a moment longer to stare at the tree. "Wow... it's so..."
[10:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[10:05] <Usagi-chan> "It's never too late until you give up, Alan! We can work something out!" Usagi shouts to the elf as she drifts closer to the tree.
[10:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> The other two girls are plopped down right next to Makoto, on a wide root. Alan is now completely surrounded in branches, and the tree's energy field is moving!
[10:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> A moment later, Cyprine lands as well, Ptilol with her now, arm in arm.
[10:06] * Rei-chan doesn't add anything to the discussion, getting the idea that she wouldn't help matters. Instead she examines the tree more thoroughly, since Alan said it was the reason they needed energy.
[10:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei - It's full of stolen energy, as well as being alive. Its energy is quite respectable....
[10:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Now, let's go," Ann calls, appearing next to the branch covered Alan. "It's time to do some pest extermination!"
[10:08] <Rei-chan> "I'm sorry, Mako-chan..." Rei whispers, before holding aloft her pen and crying out, "Mars Power, Make UP!"
[10:08] <Usagi-chan> "Stop it!" Usagi shouts. "I don't want to hurt you!"
[10:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative if you want to do anything else past this, bar transforming quickly.
[10:10] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[10:10] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 12."
[10:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[10:10] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[10:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[10:10] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[10:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> Branches wrap around Ann as well, covering both elves! Ann's branches are the more barren ones, much less developed and lively...
[10:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Ha, Sailor Mars! This is going to be doubly fun!" Ann calls out, focusing the energy at her disposal. Bursting forth from the tree, a branch comes right at Sailor Mars!
[10:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:12] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[10:12] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[10:12] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[10:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> Dodging to the side of the root, the branch just misses Sailor Mars!
[10:17] <Sailor_Mars> "Can't we work things out peacefully?" Mars asks, directing her question at Alan, "If you love each other, there has to be some way you can work things out!"
[10:18] * Makoto is still not doing anything, seemingly shell-shocked as she just continues crying.
[10:18] <Usagi-chan> "That's right! Love can overcome any problem if you just give it a chance!" Usagi pleads with the elves, looking at Alan in his leafy enclosure.
[10:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan doesn't reply, instead launching an attack at Sailor Mars! A ball of the stolen energy forms to the side of him, crashing down speedily at Sailor Mars! "It doesn't matter!"
[10:19] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[10:19] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[10:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:19] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[10:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:19] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[10:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> Usagi's words just don't seem to be getting through now. From what little you can see, Alan looks sad but firm now, like he's against a wall.
[10:21] * Sailor_Mars telekinetically reaches out for a nearby branch of the tree to intercept the attack!
[10:21] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[10:21] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[10:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> Grudgingly, a branch moves, taking the shot! It splinters and cracks as it does so, but holds firm!
[10:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> The twins, meanwhile, hold back an attack at the moment, waiting on the other girls. "Are you going to attack back," Ptilol asks, "Because it'll be difficult to dodge these shots forever," Cyprine finishes.
[10:26] * Sailor_Mars looks at Usagi and Makoto for a decision.
[10:27] <Usagi-chan> "I'm not fighting unless I absolutely have to." Usagi says resolutely. "You do what you think is best, but I'm going to keep on trying to talk."
[10:28] * Makoto shakes head, as she vehemently states, "I won't fight Alan! I won't!"
[10:28] <Sailor_Mars> "Then I'll protect you as best I can," Rei declares, matching her resolve. 'I really wish we'd brought Tellu along, now...'
[10:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> The twins nod, holding back at the moment...
[10:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You won't fight," Ann jeers from above. "Ha!"
[10:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative
[10:29] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[10:29] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 15."
[10:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[10:30] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[10:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[10:30] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[10:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan focuses, sending out another blast, this one at Usagi!
[10:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:32] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[10:32] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[10:32] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[10:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> Usagi is too slow to avoid the blast, the ball of energy impacting at her feet and sending her flying, landing on a lower root! (60 damage) Pain flares in her back as the wind is knocked out of her, as well as over her entire body!
[10:35] <Makoto> "Usagi!" Makoto cries as she moves towards her friend.
[10:36] <Sailor_Mars> "Usagi!" Rei cries out in alarm, leaping after the flying blonde. Cradling her in her arms, she looks up at the elves and their tree with a furious expression. "Cyprine, Ptliol. Get Usagi and Makoto out of here. Now," she states flatly.
[10:39] * Usagi-chan cries out in pain, struggling slowly to her feet after the vicious attack. She grits her teeth, taking hold of her brooch. "I didn't want to do this.... Moon Prism Power, Make UP!"
[10:41] <Sailor_Mars> "Usagi, you're hurt," Rei turns to the injured blonde, "You need to get out of here, now," she tells her in a tone leaving no room for argument.
[10:41] * Sailor_Moon winces at the pain in her back. "I'll be fine, Rei. We've got to deal with this!"
[10:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> The twins hover down quickly, staring at the two. Before another word can be said, however... "Shut up and die," Ann chirps out, seemingly happy just to take another shot at Mars. Another branch spurts out, aiming at Rei!
[10:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:42] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[10:42] <Sailor_Mars> "I'll deal with it," Rei says firmly, "But you don't want to be nearby when-" she cuts herself off as the branch approaches her, trying to hop out of the way.
[10:42] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[10:42] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[10:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei manages to avoid it, the branch bisecting her away from Usagi and Makoto, leaving her with the twins!
[10:49] <Sailor_Mars> 'Usagi, you need to get out of here, now!' Rei mentally yells at the blonde. 'I'm going to burn their tree down, and you can't be nearby when I do it!'
[10:50] <Sailor_Moon> 'I'm not leaving you to fight this thing by yourself, Rei! I'm not going to lose you!' Usagi snaps back.
[10:50] <Sailor_Mars> 'You won't lose me, I'll be fine!' Rei replies impatiently, 'You're already badly hurt, and I can't guarantee your safety when this thing goes up!'
[10:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative.
[10:59] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 for rejuv (HP)
[10:59] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for rejuv (HP) and gets 3."
[11:00] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[11:00] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 11."
[11:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:00] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[11:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:00] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[11:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:00] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[11:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> Again, Ann sends out another attack at Rei! "Just drop dead already," she calls to Rei, a third branch coming at her!
[11:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:02] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[11:03] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[11:03] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[11:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei again avoids the woody thrust at her, stepping aside of the branch!
[11:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Glowering at the branches, "Enough," Cyprine says, "This is getting us nowhere," Ptilol agrees. The two leap up at least ten feet up, clear of the root, and fire off a combined blast of red and blue energy at Ann!
[11:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:08] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[11:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> The blast clips a branch on the way, deflected just to the side of the female elf!
[11:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Leave Ann alone," Alan calls out with annoyance, firing off a third shot, this one at the Twins! The ball zooms at them, ready to send them flying!
[11:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:10] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[11:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> His aim is iffy, the ball streaking a few feet away from them and into the darkness!
[11:14] <Sailor_Mars> Noting with some annoyance that nobody seems to be listening to her, Rei decides to scale back her original plan by several degrees, scrambling up the root towards the tree trunk and placing her palm against the wood. "Burn!" she commands, willing flames to begin coursing through the core of the wood.
[11:14] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[11:14] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[11:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:14] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[11:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei feels the tree... the energy turn to her as she tries to set it on fire. A few sparks... with a hint of smoke, there is a great scream, echoing throughout the void and from the tree itself! The branches fall away from Ann and Alan, the two falling a bit until they regain their bearings, stunned by the earsplitting noise. "What?!" Ann says. "The tree... screamed?" Alan finishes, wincing.
[11:18] * Sailor_Moon stares at the tree in shock. "What the..."
[11:18] * Makoto pulls herself out of her shell and looks at the tree, then at the twins.
[11:20] <Sailor_Mars> "It's... alive...?" Rei gasps, sensing the energy reaching out to her. Ceasing her efforts to kill the tree, she examines its spirit more closely.
[11:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> The tree's bark seems to almost writhe in pain, another shriek echoing. Branches and roots begin flailing about, everything moving wildly...except for three branches, one above, one from the side, and one from below, all coming at Rei with a fury! (Everyone make a DCV check, Rei has one at +3.) For the moment you sense it, you feel pain at the fire, and something else. Almost... awareness?
[11:20] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[11:20] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[11:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:21] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[11:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:21] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[11:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:21] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:22] <Makoto> roll 2d6
[11:22] * Hatbot --> "Makoto rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[11:23] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+3
[11:23] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+3 and gets 8."
[11:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> During this, a branch flying slams into Usagi's head, sending her down in a heap, ringing her proverbial doorbell! (30 damage, and the rabbit is very badly stunned) However, meanwhile, Mars is far too slow to avoid all three branches, all slamming right into her! They do not impale her - instead, the tips open up, each covering part of her completely! She is now utterly covered by the branches...
[11:27] <Makoto> "Mars!" Makoto yells as she runs towards where her friend is cocooned.
[11:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> The elves stare in shock at the events, as do the Twins. "What is the Tree DOING?" Ann gasps.
[11:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[11:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> The wood covers you entirely, the black spacedrop replaced by true, lightless blackness...Rei feels her body utterly paralyzed, her mind groggy... through this, you feel another, reaching out to your mind...
[11:30] <Sailor_Mars> 'No!' Rei mentally screams, rallying her defences against this mental invasion. 'I won't let it happen, not again!' she swears.
[11:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Make a Soul check, +3.
[11:30] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+3
[11:30] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+3 and gets 8."
[11:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> Through her daze, Mars is able to activate her basic mental defenses, repelling the first thrust. 'Help me...'
[11:31] <Sailor_Mars> 'Help...?' Rei repeats curiously, keeping her defences up as she sends out a small mental probe at the invader.
[11:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> There is another probe, and it wraps around yours. 'Help me... please....'
[11:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> 'I can feel your mind... you can hear me... help me...'
[11:33] <Sailor_Mars> 'How can I help you? Are you the tree? Were you being controlled by Alan and Ann?' Rei asks, trying to get a handle on the situation.
[11:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> 'I am. Please... before it's too late...'
[11:35] <Sailor_Mars> 'I understand,' Rei replies, reaching out for the murderous flames she sent coursing through the sentient tree and willing them to cease.
[11:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei does so, an audible sigh of relief heard. 'Thank you... please... lend me your voice...'
[11:36] <Sailor_Mars> 'What must I do?' Rei asks, feeling more at ease, now.
[11:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> 'Just relax...'
[11:40] <Sailor_Mars> 'Very well,' Rei lowers her mental defences as she senses the tree's non-hostile intentions.
[11:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> You feel a warmness washing over you, like a bed blanket... Rei loses conciousness...
[11:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[11:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> For perhaps twenty seconds the branches cover Rei, then they simply recede. Rei falls gently to the root she's above, her eyes closed.
[11:43] * Makoto picks up Rei, cradling her. "Rei! Are you alright?"
[11:43] * Sailor_Moon struggles to shake off the spinning in her head, the only thing clear at the moment that Rei is unconscious. She slowly crawls over towards Makoto and Rei. "Rei-chan!"
[11:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> The two elves hover in, clearly interested in what just happened.
[11:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> A second later, Rei's eyes fly open, green irises staring at Makoto. "ENOUGH! ENOUGH! I SAID ENOUGH!" It is not Rei's voice that screams, but a deeper, male one.
[11:45] * Sailor_Moon stops where she is, gaping at Rei in shock. "...Rei?" she says in a small voice.
[11:45] <Makoto> "Rei?" Makoto asks, worriedly, wondering if Rei's been brainwashed yet again.
[11:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei leaps out of your arms, standing tall and landing on a branch a bit away from you all. "Stop it, you're killing me!" Rei?'s gaze is on the elves, and quite angry at the moment.
[11:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> "...What?" Alan echos, stunned. Ann simply stares, mute, shocked. "Killing you?" Alan says.
[11:47] * Sailor_Moon swivels her head, following Rei's movement with amazement. She tries to study her love's aura, wondering what in the world has happened to her.
[11:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> Usagi - There is another aura over hers, suppressing Rei and allowing this other thing to use her body.
[11:49] <Sailor_Moon> "REI!" Usagi screams, scrambling to her feet and producing the Lunar Rod. She levels it at Rei's body. "Let her go!"
[11:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I am the Doom Tree," Rei says, still on the elves. She turns a moment to Usagi. "Desist. Your friend did this willingly."
[11:50] * Sailor_Moon pants, staring up at the semi-possessed Rei. "Is... is she all right?" she asks as she lowers the scepter.
[11:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "The Tree?!" Ann says, wide eyed. "You're alive?"
[11:51] * Makoto remains quiet, curious as to what this means, even as some small glimmer of hope beginning to shine in her heart, hoping that somehow this means the fighting will stop completely.
[11:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> "She is unharmed," Rei says, then turns to the elves. "I am alive; I have been alive." Rei shakes her head. "You have been killing me with your energy deposits. Don't you remember?"
[11:53] * Sailor_Moon collapses to her knees as the sudden rush of adrenaline fades away. She simply stares up at her girlfriend as she converses with the two elves.
[11:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan blanches deeply. "Killing you? But you need energy to survive, right?"
[11:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei frowns. "No, I need love and caring! You don't rememeber anything about your world..." Rei sighs deeply. "Your homeworld was torn apart by war despite my efforts. Don't you remember sitting at my base, alone and cold?"
[11:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That's our first memory," Ann nods, sadly.
[11:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> "All the hatred and negative energy nearly killed me, and your energy attempts have only made it worse! If it wasn't for your feeling for Makoto," Rei steals a look at the Senshi of Jupiter, "I'd have withered away entirely."
[12:00] * Makoto blinks startedly. "Me?"
[12:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> "My feelings for Makoto?" Alan repeats, dumbfounded.
[12:01] * Sailor_Moon glances over at Makoto.
[12:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes, you," Rei smiles at Makoto. "You filled Alan's heart with love and caring, and this in turn fueled me, and in turn gave life to my children. Ann began to feel this as well with another, but was overshadowed by her own hatred."
[12:06] * Makoto's heart beats at this announcement. 'He does love me back?' she thinks, doubts having overshadowed her mind from his fighting.
[12:06] * Sailor_Moon gives Makoto a small smile at the overheard thought. 'I guess so,' she replies.
[12:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei goes back to the elves. "Ann... Alan. You're beginning to understand. Please, let me grow again in a world filled with love."
[12:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> The two are quiet for a fair bit... "Filled with love," Alan murmurs, slowly looking at Makoto.
[12:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann is silent, her thoughts directed inward. She looks guilty, however.
[12:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes..." Rei turns to Sailor Moon. "Sailor Moon, would you purify me," Rei gestures to the tree broadly. "The energy that they fed me still infests my being."
[12:23] * Sailor_Moon nods. "Of course, if I can." She examines the tree, looking for the best way to go about healing the giant plant.
[12:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> Its entire being seems to have energy stuck in it, you think. Perhaps a wide range Moon Healing...?
[12:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Makoto..." Alan says quietly, but audibly.
[12:24] * Sailor_Moon frowns for a minute, then looks over at Cyprine. "Cyprine? Can you do for me what you did for Rei yesterday?"
[12:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> The twins, who had been silent to the point and observing, nod. "It can," Ptilol starts, "be done, Usagi," Cyprine nods.
[12:25] * Makoto turns to look at Alan, and her heart skips a beat as she answers. "Yes, Alan?"
[12:25] * Sailor_Moon nods. "I think I can do it with your help, then."
[12:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan blinks, appearing in front of Makoto. "I'm sorry."
[12:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> The two nod, chanting a moment softly. Usagi feels a power fill her...
[12:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> 'Go, Usagi,' the twins echo in your mind.
[12:27] * Sailor_Moon takes a deep breath, then nods as the power fills her. Raising her scepter, she points it at the tree. "Moon Healing.... ESCALATION!"
[12:27] * Makoto shakes her head, as her eyes begin to moisten again, waving off the apology. "I'm just glad we don't have to fight..." Makoto murmurs as she moves closer to Alan. "I'm just so glad..."
[12:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> Usagi shimmers, white lines of power racing across her body. The light of the healing grows large, engulfing the tree. A loud gasp is heard from the tree as the healing hits the taken energy, Rei dropping to the ground bonelessly and laying there.
[12:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> But, as the energy goes, you feel a backwash from the sudden release of energy!
[12:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Soul check, +2
[12:29] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2
[12:29] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[12:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> Focusing her power, she dissolves the backwash and purifies the tree! (Usagi is at 1 EP now due to extreme effort.) Both Usagi and the twins slump and stagger after that, clearly having drained all concerned.
[12:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> The tree continues to shimmer brightly, its glow washing away the spacy backdrop and covering all in a brillant glow. It's getting hard to see...
[12:30] * Sailor_Moon manages to stumble over to Rei, almost collapsing beside the miko as she checks her over for any injuries.
[12:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> With a final burst of light, the Doom Tree vanishes! In its place in what is now a simple, rather cramped empty bedroom is a sapling, floating in the air. "Grow me in a world full of love and caring..." the words echo one last time as the light clears.
[12:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann goes up to the sapling, staring at it. "It's so small now..."
[12:34] * Sailor_Moon looks up from tending to Rei. "But it's pure and healthy now."
[12:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah..." Alan says quietly, staring at Makoto. "I'm glad now, too."
[12:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's vibrant," Cyprine notes. "It's alive."
[12:37] * Sailor_Moon smiles over at Cyprine. "Thanks for your help with that."
[12:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> The twin girl, now alone, nods. "Your mind is beautiful."
[12:40] * Sailor_Moon blushes a bit. "Thank you."
[12:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you speak, you hear the sound of at least a few people knocking a door down outside of the room.
[12:44] * Makoto ignores the sounds from outside as she wraps her arms around Alan, and freely starts crying into his chest.
[12:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Usagi!" Eudial cries out, the click of her Fire Buster being cocked is heard. "Rei!"
[12:44] <Sailor_Moon> "It's all right, Eudial. It's over." Usagi calls back.
[12:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Makoto..." Alan murmurs again, gently placing his arms around her.
[12:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> A moment later, the door is opened to the room. The calvary is here, including Sailor Dragon. "It's over?" Ami asks, glancing at Ann and Alan.
[12:47] * Sailor_Moon nods, stroking Rei's hair gently as she waits for the miko to awaken. "Everything's fine now, Ami-chan."
[12:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami sighs, seeing Makoto's current position. "Thank goodness."
[12:48] <Sailor_Mars> Rei's eyelids flutter open as she gazes up at Usagi. "Did it work?" she asks weakly.
[12:48] * Sailor_Moon nods, smiling gently. "It worked, Rei-chan."
[12:50] <Sailor_Mars> "I'm glad," Rei sits up, looking around and taking note of the reborn Doom Tree sapling. Her expression becomes slightly wistful at the sight, "I hope things work out for it this time..."
[12:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah," Ann says absently, holding it in her spread hands. "But where do we go now?"
[12:51] * Sailor_Moon looks over at Makoto and Alan embracing a short distance away. "Yeah..." She turns to Ann. "Where do you want to go?"
[12:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Somewhere where it can grow with love," Ann says back, staring at the reborn tree.
[12:52] * Sailor_Moon smiles. "That could be anywhere, as long as you take love with you."
[12:53] * Sailor_Mars stands up. "You don't need to steal people's energy any more," she smiles at the two elves. "You can live peacefully here, now."
[12:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann smiles. "Yeah... but where are we going to plant the tree? It'll grow huge, and this city is too constricting for it."
[12:56] * Sailor_Moon grins as an idea strikes her. "You know... I think I might have the perfect spot for it."
[12:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami smiles as well, sharing Usagi's thought. 'You mean... the moon, Usagi-chan?'
[12:57] <Sailor_Moon> 'Got it in one, Ami-chan.' Usagi thinks, still grinning.
[12:57] <Sailor_Mars> "Yeah... it's appropriate," Rei smiles, figuring out Usagi's plan. "We're restoring that world. It's a good place for the Tree to start afresh as well."
[12:57] * Makoto hugs Alan tighter, as she also suspects Usagi's plan.
[12:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> "What?" Alan looks up from Makoto, even as she clings on. "What world?"
[12:58] <Sailor_Moon> "Tell you what: we're already planning to talk about it tomorrow at Mugen; why don't you guys come, too? I can explain the whole thing to everyone at once, that way."
[12:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Wait, this is also about that," Eudial speaks up, starting to feel more lost.
[13:00] * Sailor_Moon giggles. "You'll all find out tomorrow, I promise."
[13:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Alright," Ann nods, her mind a touch too overloaded to really argue the point.
[13:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> The various Witches nod, ready to take that on face value after the day's events.
[13:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> ----
[13:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> After leaving the elves Saturday, Usagi heads home alone, drained from the day's activities. But over dinner, the thought of the newest Senshi crosses her mind...
[13:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> In particular, despite the fact that Usagi made a point to get her telephone number, she is still out of the loop for the trip tomorrow. Hm.
[14:00] * Usagi-chan polishes off the last of her soba, a thoughtful expression on her face.
[14:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Something wrong, Usagi dear," your mother asks, catching your expression.
[14:01] <Usagi-chan> "Hmm? Oh, nothing - just realized I need to give someone a call tonight. Got kind of a big meeting tomorrow and I forgot to tell her about it." Usagi replies.
[14:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods. "You're so busy now, Usagi. We never see you at home," Ikkuko smiles a bit wistfully. "It's great!" Shingo interrupts, grinning. "No smelly braindead sister to hog the TV and the snacks!"
[14:04] <Usagi-chan> "Sorry, Mom - it's been kind of a busy couple of weeks." Usagi gives her mother an apologetic smile. "Hopefully it'll be a little better after today though - we managed to take care of those elves that were doing all the energy draining."
[14:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Shingo, don't mouth off to your sister," Mom warns, then turns back to Usagi as he crosses his arms and lets loose a big 'HMMMP!'. "That's good, dear. All those people in the hospital was causing quite a stir."
[14:07] * Usagi-chan nods. "Now we just have to find them someplace to live... and that's part of what this meeting tomorrow is about."
[14:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ikkuko nods. "Good luck, dear."
[14:09] * Usagi-chan takes her dinner dishes to the sink. "Thanks, Mom." Once her bowls have been rinsed, Usagi heads for the house phone, fishing in her schoolbag for the piece of paper with Haruka's telephone number on it.
[14:09] <Usagi-chan> "Here we go!" Usagi says triumphantly as she produces it, carefully dialing the number.
[14:14] <Haruka> Hair still damp from recently exiting the shower, Haruka looks towards the phone with a puzzled frown.  Hanging the towel around her neck she answers the phone, curious as to who it might be.  "Hello?"
[14:15] <Usagi-chan> "Tenoh-san? This is Usagi Tsukino."
[14:16] <Haruka> "Hello, Usagi.  Something up?"
[14:17] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah... I forgot to tell you when we, uh, met earlier this week, but we've got a pretty important meeting down at Mugen tomorrow. I was hoping you could make it?"
[14:21] <Haruka> "Tomorrow? Sure, I should be able to make it. Do you have a time and a place where we should meet?"
[14:22] <Usagi-chan> "Around 10 am or so - I'll meet you at the main entrance and take you down to the office."
[14:24] <Haruka> "Okay.  Did you need anything else?"  Haruka asks, wiping her hair with the small towel with one hand while cradling the phone in the other.
[14:25] * Usagi-chan shakes her head, keeping the phone pressed to her ear as she does so. "Think that's all. I guess I'll see you tomorrow morning then."
[14:28] <Haruka> "Yes, I'll see you then, Usagi.  Bye." Haruka finishes, hitting the 'off' button on the cordless. She stares at the phone for a while with some trepidation, letting out a sigh.  "And so it begins...."
[14:35] <Usagi-chan> -----
[14:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> The Senshi gather to Mugen the next day, Usagi waiting for Haruka...
[14:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> The blonde rabbit waits just outside of the main entrance, while everyone else gathers below.
[14:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> Dressed in slacks and a slightly loose shirt, the ambiguous Haruka strides to the entrance of Mugen, catching sight of Usagi quickly.
[14:50] <Haruka> "Usagi," Haruka says, gaining her attention.  "Everyone else all ready here?"
[14:50] <Usagi-chan> "Think so - they're probably all down in the office already. Come on, I'll show you the way in." Usagi smiles at the taller girl, beckoning her to follow as she leads the way through the maze of hallways below the school.
[14:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you are led onward through the school, you are taken a bit aback by the depth of the workings under Mugen. There looks to be quite a bit under the school... although, considering the Deathbusters, perhaps it isn't so bad after all.
[14:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> The hallways past the main school looks to be at first just dimly lit unused class rooms, but soon you go down a keycarded door, down to a labyrinthine passage underground...
[14:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> Usagi leads you even further, past this and to a large metallic door, with WITCHES painted on it. There looks to be a faint, painted over 6 besides it.
[14:56] * Usagi-chan grins. "Welcome to the former Witches' office." She opens the door, letting the tall blonde go in first.
[14:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> If it's a Witches den you were expecting, it seems that they have nice taste. While the walls are metallic, they are painted over in pleasant colors, and carpeting has been laid down. Further, the front area is a mess of couches, chairs, and a computer station and TV. Back past that are a set of desks, one for each girl here. It's kind of big and sprawling and nice.
[14:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> About are a mess of girls, some at the desks and some at the couches. Some you reconize from earlier this week, some are new. Also, two cats are about, chatting(!) with the girls.
[15:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> There are a few 'hello's as you enter, then everyone turns eyes on Haruka. "Hey, what's she doing here," Viluy asks, a silver haired and slightly busty girl in jeans and a pink shirt.
[15:00] <Usagi-chan> "This is Sailor Uranus." Usagi smiles. "Haruka, meet the Witches and the senshi." Usagi begins to go around the room, introducing Haruka to each of the girls individually.
[15:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> There is a collective murmur at this, Rei and Ami the first to be introduced. "Hello," Ami smiles. "I met you earlier, didn't I?"
[15:02] <Makoto> "Uhm, I haven't," Makoto voices after Ami, a bit curious as to the girl's prescense. "Who is she?"
[15:03] <Usagi-chan> "This is Haruka Tenoh, Sailor Uranus." Usagi smiles, turning to Haruka. "This is Makoto Kino, also known as Sailor Jupiter."
[15:04] <Rei-chan> "Hi, Haruka...-san," Rei greets her, recalling that the '-chan' suffix didn't go over well last time.
[15:06] <Haruka> Haruka greets each in turn before looking directly at Rei.  "We meet again," Haruka finishes with a grin.
[15:06] <Usagi-chan> "Just don't start attacking her this time, okay?" Usagi grumbles.
[15:07] <Rei-chan> "So we do," Rei nods with a crooked grin of her own, nodding with Usagi, "Yeah, lets not destroy any more walls."
[15:07] <Haruka> "The thought never crossed my mind," Haruka replies calmly, giving Usagi a reassuring smile.
[15:08] <Usagi-chan> "Good." Usagi grins. "I have enough stuff to fix up already."
[15:10] * Usagi-chan moves down the line, the next being a vivid redhead. "This is Eudial... Eudial, Haruka."
[15:11] <Haruka> "A pleasure," Haruka says with a nod.
[15:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial looks notably familiar to you as a Witch. "Good to meet you," she nods. She looks brighter than she did before, happier.
[15:13] * Usagi-chan introduces the next girl in line. "Cyprine..."
[15:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We're pleased to meet you," the blue haired girl nods, a blue dress worn.
[15:18] <Haruka> "It's a pleasure to meet you as well," Haruka says to Cyprine.
[15:18] <Usagi-chan> "Viluy." Usagi comes next to the silver-haired girl who spoke when the pair entered the office.
[15:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Charmed," she smiles. Pretty little thing, you note.
[15:21] <Haruka> "The honor is mine," Haruka returns and smiles, trying hard to keep track of all the names in her head.
[15:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Next is a green haired, short girl, another one you saw on a Heart Snatch. "Hi," she says shyly, smiling just a bit.
[15:22] * Usagi-chan smiles. "This is Tellu."
[15:24] <Haruka> "Hello, Tellu."  Haruka replies, noticing the shyness, she tries to give her a reassuring smile.
[15:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> The girl blushes a bit, as you move on to the las... wait. Mimette isn't here. Not unusual, really, but you'd think she'd have been here.
[15:26] * Usagi-chan comes at last to the oldest girl in the room. "This is Herb."
[15:27] * Princess_Herb takes Haruka's hand and kisses it. "Enchantee, mademoiselle."
[15:28] <Usagi-chan> "Um... you DO know you're a girl right now, right, Herb?" Usagi says.
[15:28] * Rei-chan covers her mouth and snickers. "That gives him a better chance..."
[15:28] <Princess_Herb> "Ack!"
[15:28] * Makoto raises an eyebrow at Rei. "Oh?"
[15:28] <Princess_Herb> "I forgot, Usa-chan..."
[15:29] * Rei-chan just grins at Makoto.
[15:29] * Usagi-chan shakes her head and smiles.
[15:30] <Haruka> "Girl right now?" Haruka asked with a raised eyebrow, catching the strange wording of Usagi's reply.
[15:31] <Usagi-chan> "It's... a long story. We can get to that later." Usagi replies.
[15:31] <Rei-chan> "Herb's a guy with a strange Chinese curse that turns him into a girl. He turns into a girl as Sailor Dragon, too," Rei informs her helpfully. "None of us really understand it, but he seems happy with it."
[15:32] <Makoto> "Or we can get to it now, eh Rei?" Makoto states with a grin.
[15:32] <Usagi-chan> "Guess so." Usagi grins.
[15:32] * Rei-chan smirks. 'I love telling that story.'
[15:32] <Usagi-chan> 'So I see.' Usagi giggles mentally.
[15:33] <Haruka> "Huh, I..." Haruka tried to think of a reply, but was hung up for words.  "Right..." she finished lamely.
[15:33] <Usagi-chan> "I just try not to worry about it too much." Usagi shrugs.
[15:34] <Haruka> Haruka agreed with her sentiment with a simple nod of her head.
[15:35] <Princess_Herb> "Oh! From Monday I'll be assistant swimming coach here, part-time."
[15:35] <Rei-chan> "Swimming?" Rei repeats with a raised eyebrow, "I don't know if the pools here are heated that much, Herb..."
[15:35] * Usagi-chan looks over at Herb curiously. "Really?"
[15:36] <Makoto> 'The pools may not be heated, but the boys will certainly appreciate a female teacher more,' Makoto thinks.
[15:36] <Haruka> "Congratulations," Haruka offers idly, still trying to come to grips with what Rei mentioned earlier.
[15:37] * Usagi-chan giggles at Makoto's overheard thought.
[15:37] <Princess_Herb> "Yeah, I thought not having a toehold here would keep me out of the loop, so I asked the professor if there was anything I could do."
[15:37] <Haruka> Haruka looks over at Usagi, cocking her head to one side, wondering if there was somthing she'd missed.
[15:38] * Rei-chan has a mental image of swimming class with Herb-chan teaching where she uses her powers to heat the water a few degrees and watches the hilarity. 'Bad Rei! You can't do that!' she thinks, biting her knuckle to keep from laughing.
[15:38] * Makoto looks away innocently as people focus on Usagi.
[15:39] * Usagi-chan blushes a bit at the scrutiny, although she does give Rei a questioning look.
[15:39] <Rei-chan> 'Just thinking of something mean that I really shouldn't ever do,' Rei tells Usagi, managing to compose herself.
[15:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you banter, the door to the room opens again, none other than Professor Tomoe coming in. It's kind of strange to see the highly revered founder of Mugen coming in here. Almost.
[15:40] * Usagi-chan smiles as the bespectacled man enters the room. "Hi, Professor. I was just introducing Haruka to everyone."
[15:40] <Rei-chan> "Good morning, Professor," Rei greets him as she assumes a semblance of decorum.
[15:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Good morning, all," he nods, then smiling. "As you know, as of yesterday, the energy vampires and their monsters are no longer an issue."
[15:42] * Makoto winces at how the professor puts it.
[15:42] * Rei-chan smiles at that, glad things got resolved to everyone's satisfaction.
[15:42] * Usagi-chan nods, frowning a bit at the phrasing herself.
[15:44] * Haruka notes that as with Oxyite, it's yet another event that she'd missed....
[15:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Which means," he smiles, "That all of us... we stopped a threat to Tokyo. One of them, anyway."  He pauses a minute, hiding it by taking off and wiping his glasses.
[15:45] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling at that at least.
[15:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> A few of the Witches frown at that, catching what he's getting at. "Anyway, I've been talking to the two elves. It does seem that they are sincere, and were merely misguided."
[15:47] <Usagi-chan> "Are they coming?" Usagi asks. "I kind of wanted them to hear what I have to say today too, since it might be good for them too."
[15:48] * Rei-chan nods. "They never even realised how they were hurting the tree they were trying to protect..."
[15:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> "They are, but they needed to eat first." he smiles a bit, chuckling. "They've eaten four meals already - it seems that without the tree's support, their metabolism is far higher than a human's."
[15:49] * Usagi-chan giggles and looks over at Makoto. 'Looks like Alan's REALLY going to enjoy your cooking now.'
[15:50] * Makoto scratches the back of her head, a bit embarrassed by Usagi's thought.
[15:50] <Rei-chan> "I guess it'll be a while before it grows enough to support them again..." Rei muses to herself, glancing over at Tellu as she considers that they might be able to help the reborn tree grow faster.
[15:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods, then turns to Usagi. "So, Usagi," he says, getting down to business. "What did you have in mind today?"
[15:54] * Usagi-chan takes a deep breath, then nods. "Okay... there's really two parts to it, and I guess I can get started on the first part without Alan and Ann since it doesn't really affect them that much. I wanted to tell all of you guys some about the senshi - about where we come from and who we are, since we're going to be working together." She pauses for a moment, then continues. "Some of you know some of the story..." here Usagi looks over at Eudial, "...but I thought I'd fill everyone in, and it seemed easiest to tell everyone all at the same time."
[15:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I was wondering about that," Viluy comments. "There has to be some reason all of you transform the same and have all those themed abilities."
[15:56] * Usagi-chan nods. "I'd better give a little history lesson first though." She giggles. 'I feel like a teacher...'
[15:57] <Rei-chan> 'A teacher at the elite Mugen school, no less,' Rei thinks back with some amusement.
[15:58] <Usagi-chan> Without further preamble, Usagi launches into a fairly concise account of the history of the Silver Millenium and its fall to the forces of Metallia. "...and so when we all died, my mother - Queen Serenity - sent us to be reincarnated in the future using the power of the Ginzuishou." she concludes.
[15:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You mean there was an entire solar system wide civilisation before history," Tellu shakes her head. "That's incredible."
[16:01] * Usagi-chan nods. "But it's also true - you'll see for yourself soon." Usagi winks at the green-haired girl.
[16:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Wait," Tellu interjects again, before Usagi gets going. "You mean the same Metallia Rei talked about?"
[16:02] * Usagi-chan glances over at Rei and nods. "I'll... get to that in a minute."
[16:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods, letting Usagi go on.
[16:04] <Usagi-chan> "Anyway, that brings us up to last year." From there, Usagi gives a detailed account of the senshi's doings since their reawakening - not detailing every youma battle, but giving far more details than any of the room's occupants would have heard before.
[16:05] <Usagi-chan> The narrative slows down its pace as Usagi describes the events in the Starlight Tower and the weeks beyond, culminating with the showdown with Queen Beryl and Metallia atop Tokyo Tower - and omitting no details this time, in deference to Tellu's question. She does give Rei an apologetic look as she begins the tale of the miko's first possession, trying to keep the story as sanitized as she can.
[16:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you go over the final bits, the Professor speaks up. "Germatou was a bit confused over those days, like it forgot something," he comments. "Time being reset would probably explain that."
[16:06] * Rei-chan just gives Usagi a sad smile as she gets to that part, knowing that everyone here except Haruka already knows the story, pretty much.
[16:07] * Usagi-chan nods. "Considering how wrecked Tokyo was, it would have taken weeks to pick up the pieces if things had remained the way they were."
[16:07] <Rei-chan> "Not to mention some pieces couldn't be picked up..." Rei mutters, shaking her head.
[16:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Fascinating," Cyprine murmurs. "We had no idea such a battle occured, or such magics being invoked."
[16:10] <Usagi-chan> "I wish I had no idea it had happened." Usagi shakes her head. "I'm glad the ginzuishou was powerful enough to destroy Metallia, but handling that much power was really freaky."
[16:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you reach this pause point, the door opens again, revealing the currently human elf duo. Attention is taken away from Usagi, "Is that them," Viluy asks.
[16:10] * Princess_Herb looks a little uncomfortable.
[16:11] * Usagi-chan smiles at the new arrivals. "Hi guys." She gives the pair a small wave as they come in.
[16:11] * Rei-chan nods. "That's them," she tells her fellow witch. "Hi Alan, hi Ann," she waves to them, a little bit awkwardly to Ann, but trying to put the past behind them.
[16:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan heads right over to Makoto, smiling a bit nervously. "Hey, guys," he says quietly, his eyes hidden by his bangs. Ann, for her parts, slowly heads in Herb's direction, then blinks as she gets closer, pausing.
[16:13] * Makoto smiles at Alan in greeting.
[16:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Um... I thought Herb was here," Ann says, glancing about the room in confusion.
[16:14] <Rei-chan> 'Oh, boy... he didn't tell her?' Rei thinks, giving the elf an almost sympathetic look.
[16:15] <Usagi-chan> "He, uh, is." Usagi mumbles, hesitantly pointing out the currently-female Musk prince(ss?)
[16:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan sits next to Makoto, not quite close enough to be 'close'. "Hey," he murmurs.
[16:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> "What?" she says, walking up to her. "Um... Herb's a guy..." she says lamely, pointing at her ample chest.
[16:16] <Makoto> "Hey," Makoto murmurs back, wishing he'd sat closer.
[16:17] * Princess_Herb nods.
[16:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> He does take your hand, however, as he watches the scene with Ann.
[16:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Um..... Herb......... is there something you want to tell me," she says, staring at Herb's attributes. "I don't really go for girls, um...."
[16:18] <Princess_Herb> "Ann-chan...I have a curse," Herb says. "When I get splashed with cold water, I change into a girl. When I get splashed with hot water, I change back."
[16:18] * Princess_Herb demonstrates with the aid of her thermos.
[16:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> Her face is a curious mask of surprise and confusion, hanging open slightly. "Um... Like super disguise magic?"
[16:19] * Usagi-chan shakes her head and smiles. "Something like that."
[16:19] <Prince_Herb> "It's embarassing, so I didn't want to tell you until you got to know me better..."
[16:19] <Prince_Herb> "Super disguise magic? I guess, but I haven't any real control over it, and it only switches between the two forms."
[16:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah..." she blushes. "Are they real," she says, still gazing at his chest area, even though the objects of her attention are gone.
[16:20] * Rei-chan covers her mouth, doing her darnedest not to laugh in case Ann decides to blast her out of reflex.
[16:21] <Prince_Herb> "Mmmhmm," says Herb, a little sadly. "All real."
[16:21] * Makoto also feels a bit of amusement at the predicament that Herb and Ann are in, but doesn't let it show in front of Ann's brother.
[16:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> She blinks, chewing that over mentally as she looks dumbstruck. "Um... you aren't a mother or anything, are you?" she asks. Eudial snickers at that, having an idea about Herb's curse beforehand.
[16:22] * Usagi-chan clears her throat. "Anyway..."
[16:22] <Rei-chan> Rei's face turns red as she holds her palm tightly over her mouth, desperately keeping her mirth inside.
[16:22] <Prince_Herb> "No! I'm not interested in guys or babies at all!" Herb says
[16:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "So....you aren't interested in Alan, too?" she asks, tense and in Herb's face.
[16:23] <Rei-chan> "Oh, God!" Rei can't keep it in anymore and bursts out in loud laughter.
[16:23] * Usagi-chan facepalms.
[16:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan coughs at that, starting quite a bit.
[16:23] <Makoto> "He'd better -not- be!" Makoto outbursts.
[16:24] * Haruka smiles a tad uneasily as 'normality' takes a dive out the window....
[16:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Because I won't share," she goes on, a bit fiercely. "I'm not interested in Makoto, so you'd better not have anything on Alan!"
[16:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> Some snickering is spreading at the scene, while the rest just stare. "O... kay..." Viluy murmurs.
[16:25] <Rei-chan> "Hahaha!" Rei leans on Usagi for support as she doubles over in laughter.
[16:25] * Usagi-chan shakes with mirth, her hand still covering her face.
[16:26] * Makoto makes a face at the thought of being with Ann. 'Ewww...'
[16:26] * Usagi-chan bursts out laughing at Makoto's thought.
[16:27] * Prince_Herb hugs Ann-chan.
[16:28] <Prince_Herb> "I promise! No men, not even Alan!
[16:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> Caught a touch off guard by the motion, she freezes for a moment before sighing. "Well, as long as THAT'S taken care of..."
[16:28] * Usagi-chan wipes tears from her cheeks as she tries to compose herself.
[16:29] <Rei-chan> "Heeheeha... oh, boy..." Rei takes deep breaths, still leaning on Usagi as she struggles for her own composure.
[16:29] * Usagi-chan takes a second to catch her breath, still giggling a bit. "Anyway... where was I?"
[16:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Going on about the end of Metallia," the Professor supplies, wanting to keep things going.
[16:29] * Rei-chan stands straight, regaining her poise. "After Metallia," she prods.
[16:31] <Usagi-chan> "Okay. After Metallia was defeated, we all thought we could more or less take it easy. Unfortunately, that didn't exactly happen." With that introduction, Usagi begins on the torturous tale of the space criminals. She passes over the details of Rei and Minako's relationship, although she does describe the beginnings of the rift between the Senshi of Love and the others. Also of note to the other senshi, their princess keeps all talk of their activities on the Moon to a minimum. Through the story of Oxyite and his defeat, Usagi keeps one eye on Haruka, a pang of sympathy for the older girl in her heart as she relates the tale. She finishes with the grand battle at the TV station and the gruesome events of that day, giving a short description of the relatively peaceful months between that point and the present day.
[16:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's a lot to take in, and the Professor is the first one to speak up. "Oxyite... you mean the incident that was labeled a 'terrorist attack'?" he asks, snorting slightly at that label. "Geramatou happened to be interested in that, but thought it was a lost opportunity."
[16:36] * Haruka tries to remain experssionless through that telling, but is unable to keep her right fist from clenching tightly at her side.
[16:38] <Usagi-chan> "I almost wish he'd tried, Professor - although I'd hate for you to have gotten hurt by him. I doubt Oxyite would have liked the idea of the Silence at all." Usagi replies.
[16:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I don't know," Ami pipes up. "He did work with a demon summoner willingly," she comments, thinking of Cynthia, and then Minako and all that, frowning to herself.
[16:39] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Either way, it's for the best that he's gone now."
[16:40] * Rei-chan sighs. "Oxyite didn't care about this planet at all - he just wanted off and back out into space, even if he left an apocalypse behind him."
[16:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's a scary thought... if this Pharaoh took interst in him and was able to use his energy..." Ami muses, her mood darkening quickly with a firm frown.
[16:41] <Rei-chan> "I doubt it could," Rei says, "Not even Queen Serenity could separate his sword from him."
[16:41] <Usagi-chan> "Maybe, but he's dead now. We don't have to worry about him any more." Usagi says firmly, indicating to Ami that the subject is closed.
[16:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> 'Right, Usagi,' Ami replies mentally. 'It's merely a scary what if... Geramatou in Oxyite.'
[16:43] <Usagi-chan> "Anyway, that brings us up to where we are now - I think everyone here knows what's been going on for the last few weeks. At least if the Professor explained what's been going on here to you guys?" Usagi looks at Alan and Ann in turn.
[16:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> "He gave us an idea," Alan says, still holding Makoto's hand. "Deathbusters, his daughter, and such."
[16:45] * Usagi-chan nods. "We can give you more details later if you want them. But now comes the reason why I wanted you two to come today - and kind of the real reason I wanted to talk to all the Witches at once, too."
[16:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Go on, then," Cyprine says, "We're interested in you confirming our idea."
[16:47] <Rei-chan> 'I knew it,' Rei thinks, 'Nothing ever surprises them.'
[16:47] <Usagi-chan> "We're going to take a little side trip." Usagi looks around at the other senshi, save Haruka. 'If you guys would transform, we'll teleport up to the library.' she sends to the group.
[16:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami nods, producing her pen, but then pauses. "Um, Usagi?" she asks, thinking back to a comment. "Why don't we go into the other room first?"
[16:48] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Probably a good idea. Hold on a sec, guys - we'll be right back." Usagi beckons to Herb as well, ducking outside the office.
[16:48] * Rei-chan nods. "Remember what Eudial said when she saw us transform?" she mutters as she exits the office with the others.
[16:49] * Makoto nods, as she smiles at Alan before pulling out her transformation pen. Leaning to kiss Alan in the cheek, she moves after Usagi and the others.
[16:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami follows, blushing a bit at Rei's comment. "Yeah..." she says.
[16:50] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes once out in the hallway, willing her transformation into the Princess of the Moon Kingdom.
[16:50] <Rei-chan> Outside, Rei holds up her transformation pen. "Mars Power, Make Up!"
[16:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami nods. "Mercury Power, Make UP!"
[16:51] * Prince_Herb calls out "Dragon Prism Power Makeup!" and transforms into the silken-thighed fighter for love and justice, Sailor Dragon!
[16:51] * Makoto raises her transformation pen like the others, giving her own transformation cry. "Jupiter Power, Make Up!"
[16:51] * Sailor_Mars re-enters the office. "Sorry about that, but we prefer to transform in privacy..." she explains to everyone inside.
[16:51] * Serenity-hime leads the group of now-transformed senshi back into the office, smiling gently. "Professor, Ann, Alan - if you'd come stand next to me?"
[16:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Why?" Tellu speaks up, her curiousity overcoming her shyness, as the three do as told.
[16:52] <Sailor_Mars> "Ask Eudial," Rei blushes.
[16:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial coughs at that. "Tellu... I'll tell you later," she says quickly, not wanting to quite make an issue of it.
[16:53] <Sailor_Mars> "Anyway, the rest of you are coming with us," Rei gestures to the Witches to join the senshi, "Eudial, you remember when you teleported with me and Usagi that time?"
[16:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah," she responds, turning away from Tellu. "What about it?"
[16:54] <Sailor_Mars> "Well, it's the same deal today - except there are more of us this time," Rei holds out her hands for whomever will take them.
[16:55] <Serenity-hime> "Anyway... I'll take these three up to the library. I'll see you guys there in just a minute." Serenity smiles, putting her hands out for the Professor and the elves. Once in close enough contact, she begins to chant softly in the Lunarian tongue, and a few seconds later the four vanish with a flash of white light.
[16:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods, blinking against Usagi's light. "Teleportation," Cyprine notes to herself(selves?)
[16:56] <Sailor_Mars> "Right, we all need to hold hands in a circle," Rei tells everyone else, "Then we'll take you where we're going."
[16:57] * Sailor_Jupiter nods as she takes one of Rei's hands. "Yeah, it's not that hard."
[16:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> They do so, fitting in as they can.
[16:58] * Sailor_Mars focuses her energies towards the teleport in conjunction with the other senshi in the circle, picturing the library on the Moon. "Sailor Teleport!"
[16:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> There is a rush of energy, then of exertion...

[Halbarad]

[16:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[16:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> As the group appears, they look around as the daze of the ability clears. "A library," Viluy says, glancing around. "A stone-walled library?"
[17:00] <Sailor_Mars> "You'll understand more in a moment," Rei smiles, looking around for Serenity and her passengers.
[17:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> They are a bit away, having aimed for another side of the library. Professor Tomoe is looking at an open book. "...is this? I've never seen anything like it."
[17:00] <Serenity-hime> "It is a library." Usagi rounds the corner of one of the shelves, where she had landed with her own passengers. "But I don't think you'll be able to make much sense of the books here."
[17:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> "They're all written in this script? What language is it?" he asks, curious.
[17:01] <Serenity-hime> "Lunarian, Professor." Serenity smiles.
[17:01] <Sailor_Mars> "Come on," Rei leads the entourage over towards Serenity, "Don't wander off on your own, here."
[17:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann and Alan are merely looking around, while the other Witches back there are shuffling around the bookshelves, looking at the pretty books. Cyprine takes one, Ptilol appearing a moment as they glow softly...
[17:02] * Haruka blinks a bit. 'That felt strangely... familiar.'
[17:03] * Serenity-hime stands back, smiling. "Welcome to the Palace of the Moon Kingdom."
[17:03] <Sailor_Mars> "Wait till you see the view outside," Rei grins at them.
[17:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Gah, we're on the Moon?" Viluy asks again, surprised. Tellu blinks as well, as do the aliens and the Professor. "The Moon can't support life and has no air," he protests, almost out of instinct.
[17:04] <Sailor_Jupiter> "It does here..."
[17:04] <Sailor_Mars> "It's magic, though we don't know how far out from the palace you can actually go before the atmosphere vanishes," Rei says.
[17:04] <Sailor_Dragon> "It did when it was the Moon Kingdom, Tomoe-sensei," Herb says. "This is the last remnant of that golden age."
[17:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods, suppressing his instincts. Cyprine and Ptilol, meanwhile, make no move to come hither, interested in a book instead.
[17:06] * Sailor_Mars goes over to the twins. "Found something interesting?" she asks, leaning over to see the book herself.
[17:07] <Serenity-hime> "Whenever you guys are ready, I'll show you around. But Rei's right - don't wander around on your own, the palace is HUGE. It's really easy to get lost if you don't know your way around."
[17:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Something," Ptilol says distantly, staring at the book as Cyprine turns a page.
[17:08] <Sailor_Mars> "Can you actually understand it?" Rei asks, surprised.
[17:09] * Serenity-hime notices Rei and Cyprine talking over near one of the shelves. 'What's Cyprine doing, Rei-chan?'
[17:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Kind of," Cyprine says, focusing on the book. "The gist of it, anyway. We used a spell that partially bridges the gap."
[17:09] <Sailor_Mars> 'They're reading a book...' Rei responds. 'They have some sort of translation spell.'
[17:10] <Serenity-hime> 'What book is it?' Usagi thinks, curious.
[17:10] * Sailor_Mars tilts her head over to look at the cover of the book, trying to recall both her own dim memories and her more recent lessons with Ami and Usagi to read it.
[17:12] <Haruka> Not finding much interest in the books themselves, Haruka looks around for something else of interest.
[17:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei - Mind check, +1
[17:18] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+1
[17:18] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+1 and gets 8."
[17:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei - It's just not coming to you.
[17:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Haruka - There really isn't much to his place besides books by the boatload, a few nice chairs and tables, and walls.
[17:22] <Serenity-hime> "Anyway - if you'll all follow me?" Serenity heads for the door to the library, looking to see if the others follow her.
[17:22] * Sailor_Mars shrugs. 'Sorry, I can't actually read it myself,' she sends to Usagi as she straightens up. "Come on, guys, you can borrow the book and read it later if you like," she tells the twins as she starts to head after Serenity.
[17:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We'll catch up," Ptilol says absently, as they continue to read. "This interests us."
[17:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> The others follow Usagi, a few turning to look at the Twins.
[17:24] <Sailor_Mars> "If you're really sure," Rei shrugs, "Just don't fall too far behind - you can read that anytime, but tours of this place aren't too common," she smiles, leaving them to their own devices.
[17:25] * Serenity-hime nods, not too worried about the Twins as she knows they can teleport on their own. Heading out into the dim hallways, she begins to lead the group to the great hall, explaining the purposes of various rooms in the palace as they walk. Finally they enter the restored grandeur of the Great Hall, a simple thought from Usagi bringing up the lights hung carefully from the ceiling.
[17:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> While the Great Hall is grand indeed, the view is what captivates all concerned - the Earth, blue and vibrant, looms ahead.
[17:27] * Haruka decides to take a seat for the time being. She uses it as an opportunity to sort out her thoughts as Usagi did lay out quite a lot of information at once.
[17:27] * Sailor_Mars stays near the remaining Witches, smiling as she watches their reactions.
[17:27] * Serenity-hime watches the Professor, curious how the man of science will respond to the sight.
[17:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> The reaction is as follows - their mouths could be used to catch flies, they're so open in shock. "Wow..." Tellu murmurs softly. "It's beautiful..."
[17:29] <Sailor_Mars> "Isn't it?" Rei smiles, standing with her hands clasped behind her back near the Witches.
[17:29] <Serenity-hime> "It sure is." Usagi turns to face the Earth herself, the sight still beautiful if not quite so awe-inspiring for her.
[17:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It is," Eudial answers simply.
[17:31] * Serenity-hime turns to look at the Professor from the corner of her eye.
[17:31] <Haruka> On her way to the seats, the sight of the Earth and the lunar plains catches Haruka's eye, and she changes directions to take in the view.
[17:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> He's quieter than the rest, and not as awed. He looks to be inspecting things more, like the pillars and construction.
[17:34] * Serenity-hime coughs to get the group's attention. "Okay... I did bring you all here with a particular reason in mind."
[17:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> The group turns to you, Ann and Alan in particular. "You mean about the Tree?" Ann asks. "It's certainly big enough here on those plains."
[17:36] <Serenity-hime> "It is, and we know the ground is capable of growing plants - Ami's analyzed it. You're welcome to plant the tree here if you want to." Serenity nods to the elves.
[17:36] <Sailor_Mars> "Even if the ground was barren, the tree literally only needs love to grow," Rei says, a slightly quirky smile on her lips.
[17:37] * Serenity-hime grins slyly, sending a thought to the miko. 'And I think we can supply plenty of that up here.'
[17:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann and Alan exchange a look. "Alright," Alan says. "If this place is going to be full of love, I'm sure it can grow here."
[17:37] <Sailor_Mars> 'Usagi!' Rei thinks indignantly, blushing severely.
[17:38] * Sailor_Jupiter smiles, glad that the twins have found a spot they can call home for their tree for certain.
[17:39] * Serenity-hime giggles briefly, turning to the elves with a smile on her lips. "I hope to make it one - and that's where everyone else comes in. Some of you might have noticed that this room and the library are in almost perfect shape while the rest of the palace is, well, ruined."
[17:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> Viluy nods. "Are you trying to repair this," she asks, guessing.
[17:41] <Serenity-hime> "You're exactly right, Viluy. We're trying to restore the Moon Kingdom to what it used to be." Serenity smiles. "And I was hoping you might be willing to help us."
[17:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> A bit of murmuring at that. "What for, though?" Tellu asks. "No one lives here now, do they?"
[17:42] <Serenity-hime> "Not now, no. But my hope is that if we can make this a place where people CAN live again, then people WILL live here again. I'll admit, it's going to take a while before we're ready for that, but I'm still willing to try."
[17:43] * Sailor_Mars nods, "One day people could live all across the solar system, like they used to in the Silver Millenium. We'd like to see it happen."
[17:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Do you really think you can achieve that, Sailor Moon," Tomoe speaks up quietly. "Do you really think you can?"
[17:46] * Serenity-hime nods. "I don't know how long it might take, or what problems might come up. But I'm the queen of the Moon Kingdom - and I can't leave my kingdom the way it is." She looks around at the assembled group.
[17:48] <Serenity-hime> "If you don't think it's possible, or if you just don't want to help, that's fine - I'm not going to hold anything against you for that. But you could all do so much to help, and I'd love to have more people here - even if I restore the entire palace to the way it was when it was new, the kingdom will never really live without people."
[17:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Are there any plants," Tellu pipes up quickly, interested in that angle. "You said stuff could grow here, right?"
[17:49] <Sailor_Mars> "The original Moon Kingdom didn't just spring to life, fully formed, Professor," Rei chimes in, "It was built from the hard work, hopes, and dreams of people thousands of years ago. There's no reason why we can't repeat that feat, given enough time."
[17:49] * Serenity-hime nods. "We do have a small garden, although it's still pretty young. We've only been working up here for a few months."
[17:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'd love to see it," she replies, perking up.
[17:50] * Serenity-hime smiles. "Of course, we can go there next." She looks around at the other witches, curious whether any of the others have anything to say.
[17:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> They seem to be largely digesting this, but Eudial has already made up her mind. "I'll help," she smiles. "I could get used to the view, anyway."
[17:53] * Serenity-hime smiles brightly. "I'd love to have your help, Eudial. There are magical machines all over the palace - Ami's had a look at some of them, but there's a lot to be figured out and repaired still."
[17:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Any computers," Viluy asks at that, curious as well. "A magical computer would be a sight to see."
[17:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> "A few," Ami says, not committing entirely.
[17:54] <Serenity-hime> "You'd really need to ask Ami-chan about that... I know her Mercury computer is magical, but I don't know whether there are any in the palace." Serenity admits.
[17:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods, looking to Ami and nodding again.
[17:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Usagi," Alan interrupts, "How would we get to the surface and out of here?" he asks, "It would be good to plan the Tree as soon as possible."
[17:59] <Sailor_Mars> "I think the dry basin where the lake used to be would be a good spot to plant it," Rei suggests.
[17:59] <Serenity-hime> "Oh, of course! Let's get out to the gardens - they're on the outer palace grounds, there's plenty of room for it out there." Serenity quickly moves towards the far exit of the Hall. "This way, come on!"
[18:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> The group follows, still somewhat awed over the entire thing. Down to the garden you grow, it's slowly regrowing base green and of contrast to the grey Lunar dirt.
[18:00] * Sailor_Mars follows along. "Hope Cyprine and Ptliol hurry up, they're going to miss everything," she grumbles, walking along with the Witches.
[18:01] * Serenity-hime points out towards the shallow basin a few hundred yards from the palace. "Over there is where the lake used to be - do you need any help with it?"
[18:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I think that will work, and we can take care of it," Ann says, smiling to Alan.
[18:02] * Sailor_Jupiter focuses her eyes on Alan, once Usagi speaks, curious to see what he'll say.
[18:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Alright," he nods. "Let's go, Ann..."
[18:03] <Sailor_Mars> "So, Tellu," Rei sidles up to the green-haired girl and gestures to the still rather modest garden, "Think you can do anything with this?"
[18:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods, already going to it. "Sure... I can hear them..."
[18:04] * Serenity-hime grins crookedly. "I know the plants will do a lot better with you than me. I don't have much of a green thumb."
[18:05] * Sailor_Jupiter looks at Tellu, as the conversation changes to the garden. "You can hear them? Uhm, are they happy? I made a guess that they're growing well, but that's about all I can really tell..."
[18:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes," she replies, bending down at the edge of the garden. "They're happy, but a bit lonely. The garden is still so empty."
[18:05] * Sailor_Jupiter isn't quite sure if saying plants could be -happy-, but after the Doom Tree...
[18:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> Meanwhile... Ann and Alan drop their disguises, and a moment later blink and vanish, reappearing over the basin.
[18:08] <Serenity-hime> "I'd like to make it bigger, but with everything else we have to do there's just not really been time for us to do a lot here yet." Serenity says.
[18:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> They float down opposite each other, the Tree between them now. It slowly falls down into the surface, embedding itself into the lowest point in the crater...
[18:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> ....It nestles in, a small halo of light around it a moment before vanishing. It's in. The two stare at it quietly, their hope for the future now settled on.
[18:13] * Serenity-hime glances up at the pair a short distance away, the tiny tree visible even from here. She smiles... her kingdom is beginning to grow, just as the tree is.
[18:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> Finally, the two vanish again, reappearing in the garden. "It's done," Alan says. "We're home now, for better or for worse."
[18:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> His smile betrays his opinion on the matter, however.
[18:15] * Serenity-hime gives the bishounen a brilliant smile. "Welcome home, Alan. I'm really glad to have you here."
[18:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Home," Ann says quietly. "Really home..."
[18:17] * Serenity-hime turns to Ann, still smiling. "For as long as you want it to be."
[18:20] <Sailor_Mars> "I think this is a wonderful new beginning, for you two and the tree," Rei smiles, approaching Serenity and the elves.
[18:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan turns to Makoto. "A new start...I'd like to spend a new start with you, Makoto," he says, smiling widely.
[18:21] * Sailor_Jupiter blushes. "I'd like to spend it with you too," she says as she starts smiling more earnestly
[18:23] * Serenity-hime keeps smiling, her eyes shining with unshed tears.
[18:23] * Sailor_Mars takes Serenity's hand, giving it a squeeze.
[18:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan goes over to Makoto, laying his hands on her shoulders. "It's...I'm happy it worked out this way, Makoto. I really am."
[18:25] * Serenity-hime turns to Rei, her smile like daylight. 'It's not just a dream anymore, Rei-chan... It's not just MY home now.'
[18:26] <Sailor_Mars> 'And this is just the beginning,' Rei replies, smiling herself.
[18:27] * Serenity-hime squeezes Rei's hand tightly.
[18:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[18:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> As Haruka looks on... "It's nice... a week ago, I was only concerned about turning them to charcoal," Eudial speaks, having walked up besides you.
[18:33] <Haruka> "What!?" Haruka replies quickly, caught totally off-guard, and more than a little embarassed. "Eudial... correct?"
[18:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods. "Haruka, correct," she says with a small smile, her red hair vibrant against the dark sky. "It's nice to talk to you instead of dodging attacks."
[18:40] <Haruka> Haruka hums and nods in agreement. "Beautiful," she says, turning to Eudial. "This place, so quiet and peaceful... I wonder if something like this will really last. It's like a dream."
[18:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I hope so," she smiles warmly. "It's nice, reminds me that there is something besides frying Geramatou and fighting minions." She turns again, looking at Earth. "What Usagi said... making something up here, places where things like the Deathbusters won't happen. I like that."
[18:54] <Haruka> "What do you want to do with your freedom?" Haruka asks, while looking at the Earth. "I always thought it was there that I'd find this 'something' for me, but now... now, I just don't know."
[18:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> She pauses a moment, staring at the blue and green sphere floating in the starry sky. "Be with my friends and be happy." she says quietly. "I'd forgotten for a while how nice it is to be around friends and family - Rei reminded me of it just in time." Eudial smiles wider.
[19:01] <Haruka> Haruka extended both hands out towards the Earth. From her perspective she cradled the blue sphere within her hands. "Friends and happiness..."
[19:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah," she nods. "Just like that. If I can just get a boyfriend to match that," she chortles, "I'll be set!"
[19:10] <Haruka> Haruka shook her head and scolded herself for feeling so glum at a timie like this. "Oh, I'm sure you'll find what you're looking for," she said with a smile. "It just takes time, I know."
[19:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial snorts loudly. "Time indeed," she mutters. Going on, she grumbles a bit. "I almost wish I was interested in girls sometimes, because I'd have gone after Rei. Dunno if it would have worked, but I think it would have gone somewhere." Shaking her head, she goes on. "Bah. I'm getting myself depressed now."
[19:17] <Haruka> Hauka chuckles slightly despite herself. "I'm sorry," she says through a light chuckle.
[19:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> "No problem," she smiles at you, chuckling at well at herself. "Anyway...you're going to be working with us now, Haruka?" she asks, shifting subjects. "I'll get you a desk in the office then, and set you up around the school."
[19:22] <Haruka> "A desk, an office...?" Haruka repeats. "No offense, but I've never pictured nor have I ever been much of an office person. Will you be there to help?" she adds with a grin.
[19:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> She smiles back. "I mean the Witches room. We call it the office," she explains, meeting your eyes with hers. "You saw the desks in there? Each member of the Witches has one, as we use it for our main meeting room." She turns back, not quite able to tear herself away from the view of the Earth. "There are a few other benefits to this, too. We get to eat free in the cafeteria - Professor Tomoe foots the bill for it himself."
[19:30] <Haruka> "Ah," Haruka nods at the memory. "Can't wait to get started then." Noticing Eudial's gaze, Haruka asks, "Is there something special with the view?"
[19:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's breathtaking," she shrugs. "Just... really pleasant." Eudial finally looks away for now, back at you. "Sorry, that was rude of me to look away like that."
[19:34] <Haruka> "No no, it's understandable." Haruka replies. "I couldn't help looking at it either when we were in the library."
[19:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial nods again. "Yeah." There is a short silence as the conversation stalls, before Eudial speaks again. "So... how long have you been Sailor Uranus?"
[19:55] <Haruka> "A little over 3 months now." she answers.
[19:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah? Mmmm...I have to know, actually," she asks, interested now. "How did you know about the Deathbusters? Is that why you were at Mugen in the first place, or was that mere luck?"
[20:01] <Haruka> "More luck than anything else," she says with a shrug, "I think." Thinking about it for a moment Haruka adds, "It was really just a vague feeling that started with a dream and I just... went with it."
[20:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Good instincts," she murmurs. "And that lead you to us?" Eudial chews that over, thinking. "If you had an idea who we were, why didn't you act more directly? Cut it off at the source, I mean."
[20:07] <Haruka> "I didn't have anything concrete to go with. I was playing it on a hunch and didn't have much else to work with beyond that," she says.
[20:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Mmmm," she nods. "Anyway, I think I'm going to see how Tellu's doing," Eudial smiles again. "Welcome aboard, Haruka."
[20:13] <Haruka> "Thanks," Haruka says with a wave.
[09:00] <Ana-napping> ---
[09:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> As the day wears on, Usagi finds herself drifting away from the group in the garden, heading to her room to rest a bit. The day's activities took more out of her than she thought, perhaps? On the way there in a crumbly, ruined hallway is Professor Tomoe, his back leaning on the wall and his gaze at the upper wall, lost in thought.
[09:04] * Serenity-hime smiles as she sees the man, obviously deep in thought. Not wanting to disturb him, she walks around him quietly, continuing on her way up to her bedchamber.
[09:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you pass by, "Usagi?" he says, breaking his gaze away from the wall.
[09:05] * Serenity-hime turns. "Yes, Professor?"
[09:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> He straightens, removing himself from the wall. "How serious about all of this," he gestures sweepingly with his hand at the old wall and all beyond it, "are you?"
[09:08] <Serenity-hime> "About as serious as it's possible to be, I guess." Usagi sighs. "I know it's a huge task, and I may have been foolish for even thinking about trying it. But I still think it's something that can be done."
[09:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hmmm." The Professor is then silent a few moments, staring back up at the ceiling. "You know, I made a huge effort to get you girls to come to Mugen after you saved us," he says without preamble. "Scholarships, a nice position, support, all of that."
[09:13] * Serenity-hime nods, unsure of what he's getting at. "I know, and I really can't thank you enough for that."
[09:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I wanted to use you to get Hotaru back," he goes on, thoughtful. "I still do, bluntly. In effect, I'm using you girls... but... heh." he chuckles, humorlessly. "I get the feeling you have just turned things one hundred and eighty degrees."
[09:16] <Serenity-hime> "I don't blame you at all... I want you to have Hotaru back, so I don't mind if you're using me for that." Usagi smiles. "I'd still be looking for her no matter what you did."
[09:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> "....I'm not surprised, Usagi..." he says after another pause. "You're so kind, caring. If you girls hadn't come along," he turns to Usagi, smiling. "Queen Serenity, isn't it?"
[09:19] <Serenity-hime> "Officially, yes." Usagi giggles. "But just Usagi is fine with me."
[09:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Usagi, then. If you are going to build this," he smiles, "build this into a land that reflects it's ruler, then I'll gladly help you."
[09:21] * Serenity-hime smiles broadly, giving the older man a hug. "Thank you, Professor."
[09:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[09:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> Later that day as well, Rei tears herself away from the general festivities with a thought - The twins never showed up.
[09:26] * Sailor_Mars heads back to the library, expecting to find the Twins still engrossed in their reading.
[09:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Before hand, Soul check. Nothing bad, just to see if you notice something subtle. +1.
[09:27] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+1
[09:27] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+1 and gets 9."
[09:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> Going into the library, Sailor Mars finds the Twins reading, both sitting on chairs a fair bit apart from each other. That's the farthest away you've ever seen them be from one another. Further... their auras are slightly different and distinct at the moment, like two people.
[09:30] <Sailor_Mars> "Hey, guys," Rei waves to the pair. "Hope those books are interesting, because you've pretty much missed everything..." 'I knew we shouldn't have gone to the library first...'
[09:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hey, Rei," Cyprine says, a "Hello, Rei," from Ptilol a moment later. "They are," the red headed one of the duo confirms. "Even if the translation spell is rather imprecise."
[09:34] <Sailor_Mars> "Yeah, I was alive back when some of the books were written and I still have trouble reading them. Ami and Usagi are probably the only people that are fluent in Lunarian, now." She walks over, "So what exactly are those books about?"
[09:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "How'd they learn it," Cyprine asks, followed by, "Something about politics in the Moon Kingdom. Looks like a European Monarchy, more or less."
[09:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> "About the same here. It's about some noble family from Neptune," Ptilol comments. "It would be boring if half the things it said weren't brand new to us."
[09:40] <Sailor_Mars> "Usagi can remember when it was her first language - the rest of us can't really remember all that much from back then. And the stuff I do remember, it's like it's all in Japanese, since I can understand it in my memories, even if reading it now is tough. Ami's just had more time to learn since she spends the most time up here in the library," Rei explains, before turning to their point about the government.
[09:40] <Sailor_Mars> "I think that's more or less accurate - Queen Serenity was ultimately in charge, with the royal families of the other planets directly underneath her, and then lesser nobles... I think it was pretty similar to the feudal system."
[09:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cyprine nods, getting back into her book. Ptilol, however, puts hers down, getting up. "Rei, what did we miss in here today? You had something planned, I assume?"
[09:44] * Sailor_Mars nods, leaving Cyprine to her book as she faces Ptliol. "That's right. You heard the story Usagi told back in the office, and you've learned a bit more from reading those books - you know how thousands of years ago people lived all across the entire solar system in a peaceful society that was ended by Metallia's arrival."
[09:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah, that sounds correct," she nods. "This is what's left of it?"
[09:47] <Sailor_Mars> "There might be ruins on the other planets, hidden from Earth's view like this palace," Rei shrugs, "But this is all we've seen so far. You haven't left the library, but aside from a few other rooms here, the palace is a wreck." She fixes Ptliol with a determined look, "But it doesn't have to stay a ruin. People once lived here, and people could live here again."
[09:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> She chuckles. "Rebuilding? That would explain Usagi," she notes.
[09:51] * Sailor_Mars smiles. "We want to bring life to this place once more. It won't be easy, and it won't be quick, but if it was done before, back in the infancy of the Moon Kingdom, what's to stop us doing it again?"
[09:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Like make a new kingdom and fill it up with residents?"
[09:59] <Sailor_Mars> "That's exactly right," Rei nods. "Right now it's just us, but the place isn't really fit for full-time habitation yet, anyway. But if we can restore enough of the environment that the Moon could be self-sufficient, we could invite more people to live up here, and form the beginnings of a new society that might eventually spread across the whole solar system like the old Moon Kingdom did."
[10:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Ambitious," she notes. "You're trying to get the Professor to underwrite this or get some form of help?"
[10:04] <Sailor_Mars> "We're basically just asking everyone if they want to help - it's a lot easier to start with a small group of people who already understand magic," Rei replies, "Alan and Ann have planted their reborn tree here and are committed to helping make this place a new home. Eudial and Tellu have both agreed to help out as well. I think the Professor and Viluy are still considering it, but they do seem interested."
[10:04] * Sailor_Mars gives the redhead a brilliant smile, "This is a chance to create something wonderful, and we'd like you all to be part of it."
[10:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We'll have to talk about it," she says, glancing over at her twin. "What did the others say?"
[10:10] <Sailor_Mars> "Well, Eudial and Viluy seemed mostly interested in working with the old magical technology around here. Eudial did say that she wants to see this through and make a place where things like the Deathbusters can't ever happen," Rei smiles slightly, "Tellu is mostly interested in seeing new life bloom here - plants can grow here, but we don't have many yet."
[10:10] <Sailor_Mars> "I haven't actually talked to the Professor yet..." Rei furrows her brow, "He's been pretty quiet, really..."
[10:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hm. Well... if he agrees, I suspect we'll go along as well," Ptilol shrugs. "We'll talk to him about ourselves."
[10:14] <Sailor_Mars> "Okay," Rei nods, "Do you want to come and join everyone else, now? You're welcome to borrow any books you like, anytime."
[10:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We will in a bit. I think Cyprine wants to finish her book first," she smiles at her twin.
[10:16] <Sailor_Mars> "Fair enough," Rei smiles, "I'll see you guys in a little while," she waves, heading out the library and back to rejoin everyone else.
[10:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[10:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> A few days pass from this, school again taking your time. The chat in the Witches office the next few days is rather active, however, as various plans about the Moon and thoughts are exchanged.
[10:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> After an interesting discussion about the Moon on Wesnesday after class, Rei, Usagi and Cyprine are walking home, still chatting about the Moon in general.
[10:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you pass by another cafe, "And what about the Tree? How is that going to play in to your plans, Usagi," Cyprine asks.
[10:25] <Usagi-chan> "Well, it wasn't really something I'd had a chance to plan ABOUT, since we didn't know about it until just the other day. But there's plenty of room for it up there, that's for sure." Usagi replies.
[10:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods. "If it's a real entity like we think it is, it could help the Moon recover as it grows."
[10:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Soul checks, all. >_>
[10:25] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[10:25] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[10:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:25] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[10:26] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[10:26] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[10:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> To both Rei and Usagi - You feel something all of a sudden, a menancing presence amid the people walking by, or around, or above!
[10:27] <Rei-chan> "I feel something," Rei announces abruptly, "A strong youki..." she stops and looks around, trying to localise it.
[10:27] * Usagi-chan looks around, instantly alert for the source of the disturbance. "I can feel it too..."
[10:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cyprine pauses herself. "Yeah. It's something..." she nods.
[10:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you do so, the passing by people suddenly stop cold, as if frozen for a moment!
[10:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Soul checks again, +3
[10:28] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+3
[10:28] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+3 and gets 9."
[10:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:28] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[10:29] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+3
[10:29] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+3 and gets 6."
[10:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> You feel a spirtual tug, a string yank at you. Usagi quickly resists it by instinct, as does Rei with her training! Cyprine staggers a moment, clutching at her chest before Ptilol appears, supporting her sister. When this happens, Cyprine relaxes, her pain gone. But...The rest of the people around you are not so lucky, falling to the ground as their Heart Crystals pop out and float above them!
[10:31] <Rei-chan> "Germatou!" Rei hisses, looking around for the daimon or its agents.
[10:31] * Usagi-chan grits her teeth. "Where is he?"
[10:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> "What?" Cyprine mutters, getting her bearings. "I feel IT," Ptilol hisses angrily. "It's coming!"
[10:32] <Usagi-chan> "It?" Usagi says, still trying to look for the source of the pulling.
[10:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> The Heart Crystals zoom ahead, gathering over the middle of the now stopped street, a passing car having drifted out into the side as its driver lost his Crystal. Above that, a shadowed figure appears, only a white and twisted grin visible on it's face. "No Talisman?" it cocks it's head at the bunching of Crystals, as if annoyed.
[10:34] <Rei-chan> "Mars Power, Make Up!" Rei cries, holding her transformation pen aloft.
[10:34] * Usagi-chan hears the miko's cry and takes hold of her own brooch. "Moon Prism Power, Make UP!"
[10:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hum?" it looks up, his head snapping into an alert position in a motion that should have broken it's bearer's neck! "Sailor Mars and Moon? Oh, and those twins, too." It grins widely. "No fair, you didn't give up your Heart Crystals!" it pouts, frowining. It's voice is vaguely female, but badly distorted in any case.
[10:37] <Sailor_Mars> Dodging around the slumped victims, Mars races forward to challenge the Daimon. "Where is your master, daimon? Where are Germatou and Mistress 9?" she demands angrily.
[10:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You..." Cyprine mutters, clearly annoyed, linking arms with her sister and charging forward as well with Mars.
[10:38] * Sailor_Moon paces the others, an expression of grim determination on her face. "Where is Hotaru?"
[10:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Ah, ah! You didn't say please!" it cackles, it's frown warping into a sickening grin as it laughs. "Such rude heroines!"
[10:40] <Sailor_Moon> "We're going to get a lot ruder if you don't return all those Heart Crystals and tell us where Hotaru is!" Usagi shouts.
[10:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Well then," it smiles, going for a more sinister apperance, white teeth flashing with menace, "Perhaps I should do something about that, hm girls?"
[10:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> Laughing, he focuses a moment, the Heart Crystals collected shimmering blackly! "You know, all Heart Crystals aren't pure! Even a single impure one contains enough malice and hatred to fuel quite a bit of negative energy!" From this amalgation of Crystals, one blackened and chipped one emerges. "Oh, I see. This person is a liar, a thief and a degenerate! What will happen when I mix that into the energy of the other Crystals and give it life?"
[10:44] <Sailor_Mars> "You can't do that!" Mars cries, horrified.
[10:45] <Sailor_Moon> "Don't even think about it!" Usagi shouts.
[10:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That would..." Cyprine gasps, honest surprise crossing the twins.
[10:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I dare, and let's find out!" The impure Crystal shimmers again a moment, then breaks in two! Waves of black energy spill over and out, drenching the other Crystals! They start to change and shift, the energy balance completely ruined! They fuse, the energy forming into something.
[10:47] * Sailor_Moon tenses, watching the crystals morph in horrified fascination.
[10:47] <Sailor_Mars> "You monster!" Rei gasps, "I can't forgive you!"
[10:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> Swirling, the energy coalesces, forming into a visible body! What starts as a typical humanoid build shifts into a black crystalline body, trasparent enough to let you see the festering, hellish void inside! Its head slowly begins to move, a new cursed life born. "Kill.... take... you..." it mutters, grinning its own sinister grin.
[10:49] <Sailor_Mars> "Sailor Moon, we have to purify it!" Rei says to the blonde, instinctively taking a step back from the sheer outpouring of negative energy from the creature.
[10:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Excellent," Geramatou chirps. "I dub thee: Hatred! Destroy these silly girls and bring about ruin!"
[10:49] <Sailor_Moon> "No!" Usagi shouts, her mind reeling. "You can't!"
[10:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hatred...I am Hatred...." it says, it's voice firming into a masculine tone.
[10:50] <Sailor_Moon> Turning to the red-suited senshi, she nods. "I know, Mars... if we destroy it, we destroy everyone's Heart Crystals."
[10:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Bastard," Ptilol gasps with her syster. "You monster!" Cyprine suppliles.
[10:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Now, go!" the daimon says, vanishing to leave you to deal with what it has wrought!
[10:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative to act now.
[10:51] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[10:51] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 15."
[10:51] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[10:51] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 14."
[10:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[10:51] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[10:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[10:52] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[10:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You..." Cyprine murmurs again. "We won't let this pass," Ptilol agrees.
[10:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Sailor Moon," Cyprine calls, "Can you purify this creature?"
[10:54] <Sailor_Moon> "I'm going to try!" Moon calls back to the twins.
[10:55] <Sailor_Mars> "Rin pyo to sha kai jin retsu sai zen..." Mars holds up an ofuda, concentrating the positive energy of her spirit into the small piece of paper, which turns rigid as she chants. With a cry of "Akuryo Taisan!" she lets it fly at the crystalline being of negative energy.
[10:55] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[10:55] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[10:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6-2
[10:55] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6-2 and gets 5."
[10:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> The ward is slapped on, only to be send flying right back past Mars a moment later, unable to stay on such a being! It doesn't even seem to have affected it.
[10:56] <Sailor_Mars> "Too much negative energy..." Mars curses.
[10:57] <Sailor_Moon> "Let's see what I can do then!" Usagi pulls the Lunar Rod from subspace, pointing it directly at the crystal monstrosity. "Moon Healing Escalation!"
[10:57] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[10:57] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[10:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6-2
[10:58] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6-2 and gets 5."
[10:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> The healing impacts, causing it to stagger a moment, but nothing more! You get the distinct feeling that it's too strong in its current state to be affected - it didn't even slow it down.
[11:01] <Sailor_Moon> "We've got to wear it down some first! I can't heal it, it's too strong!" Moon shouts to the others.
[11:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Then let's get to it," Cyprine agrees, "Right," Ptilol nods a moment later, two orbs of blue and red appearing and firing off as the two fly up to rain down energy blasts from above!
[11:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:06] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 12."
[11:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:06] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[11:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cyprine's shot is horridly off, causing her to fall a bit in surprise because she misshifted her weight, causing her shot to miss utterly! Ptilol's, however is better aimed despite this, soaring to the target!
[11:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:07] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> The shot hits Hatred square in the chest, causing a crunching, crystalline breaking sound as its chest is fractured!
[11:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> From the crater of the impact, some misty black energy leaks out, a thick fog enveloping the area!
[11:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Soul checks, all.
[11:13] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[11:13] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[11:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:13] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[11:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:13] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:13] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[11:13] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[11:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> You feel raw hatred and anger begin to cloud your brain... only a quick shake of your head and refocusing prevent you from losing all control and going berserk!
[11:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cyprine staggers again, a laugh coming from deep in her throat! There seems to be a momentary battle over Ptilol, but she then echos it a moment later... you can almost feel the anger now radiating off them, their eyes clouded.
[11:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hatred," it rumbles, lurching forward to swing at Sailor Moon during the meantime!
[11:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:15] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[11:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:16] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[11:16] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[11:16] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> Shards of sharp, jagged black crystal fly towards Usagi, but she freaks and dives out of the way, the shimmering shards sticking into the sidewalk!
[11:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative minus short comments.
[11:17] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+1
[11:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+1 and gets 5."
[11:17] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[11:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 14."
[11:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[11:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[11:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> Er.
[11:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[11:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[11:18] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[11:18] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 14."
[11:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> With a guttural scream of rage shared by both, the Twins zoom in, firing off two blasts of energy at the creature!
[11:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:19] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[11:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:19] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cyprine's shot is again wild, but Ptilol's aim is better!
[11:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:20] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> The second shot clips the arm of the thing, another crystalline crack heard as its arm is shattered!
[11:22] <Sailor_Moon> "Come on, guys! Snap out of it!" Usagi changes her aim, directing her healing energy at the berserk twins this time.
[11:22] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[11:22] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[11:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> The healing washes over them, the two quickly returned to awareness! "Guh?" they mutter, hovering in place now, still linked.
[11:23] <Sailor_Mars> Holding up her clasped hands as if in prayer, Sailor Mars concentrates intently, her eyes closed as 12 pillars of flame shoot into the air surrounding the crystalline beast. Each one only flashing for a brief instant before dissipating, leaving a series kanji scored into the ground in a circle.
[11:23] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6 burning 30 EP
[11:23] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 burning 30 EP and gets 4."
[11:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> The creature ignores the mandala around it, instead shooting off crystal shards again, this time at Rei!
[11:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:24] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[11:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> But its aim is bad, only scoring the street!
[11:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:26] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[11:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Freezing White..." Mercury's voice calls out from the side, butting into your combat!
[11:28] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Dragon!" follows Mercury's shout, this time from Jupiter's voice, as the energy gathers to fly towards the monster.
[11:28] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[11:28] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[11:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Freezing White....DRAGON!" The shout of Sailors Mercury and Jupiter is heard, a frigid, crackling dragon of ice forming and racing at the monster, a magnificent sight indeed!...except that it misses by a hair, turning an empty car to frozen rubble instead.
[11:29] <Sailor_Moon> "Mercury! Jupiter! Be careful, we can't destroy it!" Moon shouts.
[11:30] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Wait, what?" Jupiter recoils in surprise as she hears Usagi's shout.
[11:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> "What?" SAilor Mercury calls back. "Why?"
[11:30] <Sailor_Mars> "It's made from people's heart crystals!" Mars calls.
[11:30] <Sailor_Moon> "It's made of Heart Crystals! If we destroy it, all these people will die!"
[11:31] * Sailor_Jupiter gasps in surprise. 'Oh god...' she thinks, glad that she and Mercury missed now.
[11:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami's eyes go wide, her visor snapping into place. "Oh... it is..."
[11:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative
[11:31] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[11:31] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 12."
[11:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:31] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[11:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:31] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[11:32] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[11:32] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 16."
[11:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:32] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[11:34] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[11:34] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 16."
[11:37] <Sailor_Jupiter> 'Usagi, what do you want done?' Jupiter thinks towards the blonde, hoping she has a plan of action, having fought against the monster longer.
[11:39] <Sailor_Moon> 'We're trying to wear it down a little so I can purify it. I'm waiting on Rei - it looks like she's planning something, but I'm not sure exactly what.' Usagi replies, sending to everyone who can hear her.
[11:40] <Sailor_Mars> 'My wards aren't strong enough, but I hope this might work...' Rei sends back as she picks up the thought, still focusing on the monster and her newly made mandala surrounding it.
[11:43] * Sailor_Jupiter nods at the thought from Usagi as she too waits for Rei to try what she wants to do, and hoping it works.
[11:43] * Sailor_Mars releases the trigger on her mandala, hoping to release a huge outpouring of positive energy right underneath the creature of hatred.
[11:43] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[11:43] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[11:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> Symbols of shining light appear under and around Hatred, it's body shirking back and then holding stiffly still in the light!
[11:44] <Sailor_Mars> 'Go, Usagi!'
[11:45] * Sailor_Moon nods. "All right.... here goes!" Usagi turns to face the creature once again, its body motionless in the center of the glowing mandala. Raising her scepter a third time, she sends the waves of pure energy towards the creature of hatred once again! "Moon Healing Escalation!"
[11:45] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[11:45] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[11:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> Usagi's magic so focused, it glides over Hatred! The thing shimmers with bright light, then breaks apart with a SNAP! Heart Crystals spill from it, zooming to bodies all around and returning of their own accord!
[11:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> With a shudder, Hatred is gone. The black mist vanishes as well, leaving a scene of destruction.
[11:48] * Sailor_Moon breathes a sigh of relief as the Heart Crystals scatter back to their owners.
[11:48] * Sailor_Mars looks around to see if all the victims are receiving their heart crystals... Hatred had taken some structural damage, and that might have destroyed a crystal or five...
[11:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> Mars - as much as you can tell, they all seem to be getting Crystals.
[11:49] <Sailor_Mars> "We did it..." Mars sighs in relief.
[11:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Awwwww! Next time, then, I'll create an even better collection of Crystals!" Geramatou's voice sounds, although he's not in sight in the slightest.
[11:51] <Sailor_Moon> "And we'll be right there to stop you!" Usagi shouts back.
[11:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Whew," Ami sighs. "Was that Germatou?" she asks Usagi, after it seems that he won't reply back.
[11:54] <Sailor_Mars> "It was," Rei answers herself, "Looks like he found a new host..."
[11:58] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Dammit, worse, is the fact that he's put us in a tough position if he attacks us with monsters from heart crystals!" Jupiter exclaimes annoyed. "We can't fight full out against that!"
[12:02] <Sailor_Moon> "That doesn't mean we can't fight though." Usagi replies, her expression grim. "We beat that one without losing any Crystals - and we can do the same if he tries it again."
[12:08] <Sailor_Mars> "That's right," Rei nods confidently, though privately relieved that she didn't screw up such a delicate ritual under such harried conditions. She turns to Cyprine and Ptliol, "Are you two all right? It looked like that gas hit you pretty hard."
[12:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> The two are just now floating down, still a bit shaken. "We're fine," Cyprine says, shaking her head.
[12:16] * Sailor_Moon smiles. "Good... I was worried about you for a minute there."
[12:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> We should get going," Ptilol comments, "I think they're starting to stir."
[12:20] * Sailor_Moon glances around at the people at the cafe. "You're right... let's regroup at Mugen for now."
[12:21] <Sailor_Mars> "Back to the office, eh?" Rei sighs, looking around for a place they can detransform out of sight.
[12:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> The two nod, going off themselves. There are plenty of nice side areas and backways to jump into.
[12:22] * Sailor_Mars picks one and gets out of sight, losing her transformation.
[12:22] * Sailor_Moon ducks into a deserted alley next to the cafe and detransforms.
[12:22] * Sailor_Jupiter likewise follows and detransforms.
[12:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> -----

[Halbarad]

[15:51] <Anastasia> Tuesday goes by quickly enough for Makoto, Alan meeting up with you right after classes as per usual. It was a real nothing day, with boring lesson after boring lesson.
[15:53] <Anastasia> As you get away from the school building, Alan smiles. "Any plans for the afternoon, Makoto," he asks, glad to be away from the school.
[15:54] <Makoto> "Not really. What about you?"
[15:55] <Anastasia> "Actually, I was hoping we could go back to my apartment," he says.
[15:57] <Makoto> "Oh?" Makoto asks curiously before nodding. "Yeah, it's fine."
[15:57] <Anastasia> He nods. "Cool. I kinda have some plans there," he explains as you walk down the afternoon sun dappled sidewaalk.
[15:58] * Makoto raises an eyebrow at that. "What 'plans'?"
[15:59] <Anastasia> "Well, Ann and I were talking last night, and we decided we should try and start over a bit - it was a bit rocky on that double date, so we're going to try and patch things up."
[16:01] * Makoto shakes her head, getting her head out of where it was at before speaking. "Oh, I don't think that double date went too bad. You two didn't particularly fight then, and the end of the date was... pleasant."
[16:04] <Anastasia> "Well, there was a bit of friction the day after," he mentions. "Although....that was a good end to the date," A goofy smile starts to spring up on his face. "In fact... we should do that more often."
[16:08] * Makoto blushes. Okay, so she couldn't tell him it was 'just kisses' considering how happy that made her, but they'd already done more daring...
[16:11] <Anastasia> He walks on, a wacky grin plastered on as you progress through the streets.
[16:12] <Anastasia> ---
[16:12] <Anastasia> Classes wrapped a bit early for you today, and Herb goes to stop by home before anything else. Nian is waiting there for you, his golden-furred tail swishing behind him. "Hello, Prince," he greets you.
[16:15] <Prince_Herb> "Hello, o trusted advisor. Look, I've got my teaching schedule worked out now. It's going to be very strange, working. I don't think anyone in the family has done it since before the Manchu invasion..."
[16:16] <Anastasia> "Befitting of royalty," he notes, a hint of humor in his voice. "Oh, you had a telephone caller today. She was a rather nice sounding young lady, Prince."
[16:19] <Prince_Herb> "Ah? Was there a message?" Herb asks, trying to sound nonchalant, but not with much success
[16:20] <Anastasia> Nian catches that, chuckling. "She said that it was Ann Grainger, and to call her back at 555-2409," he relays the message on to you in good humor. "Have you recovered your footing from Hiroe, Prince?"
[16:23] <Prince_Herb> "Maybe I have. Ann didn't seem quite so bewildered when she found out. She was just concerned about whether I wanted to date her brother as well. I'm sure you'll meet her sooner or later."
[16:23] * Prince_Herb picks up and strokes Nian.
[16:24] <Anastasia> Nian snickers very loudly at that, even as Herb picks him up. "Oh dear. You didn't have designs on her sibling, DID you?" he prods, amused. "No matter. It's good to see you doing better after that mess with Hiroe."
[16:26] <Prince_Herb> "I guess I am, aren't I?" Herb says, and carries Nian with him to the desk where the phone is. Putting the cat down, he picks up the phone and returns Ann's call...
[16:33] <Anastasia> "Hello, Grangier residence," Ann picks up on the third ring.
[16:36] <Prince_Herb> "Hello Ann-chan," says Herb, "Herb speaking.
[16:41] <Anastasia> "Hey," you can hear her smile over the phone, in her voice. "Is your afternoon free?" she asks, "We'd like to invite you over to our apartment."
[16:43] <Prince_Herb> "It is now." Herb says. "I'd love to come over."
[16:45] <Anastasia> "Good. Well, c'mon on over, then," she nods, missed by Herb. "See you soon." Click.
[16:47] * Prince_Herb feels a wave of warmth and happiness sweep over him. "Well, my advisor, see you later. I'm going to visit the Grangier household. Don't wait up."
[16:47] * Prince_Herb winks.
[16:48] <Anastasia> He hops away, down to the carpet. "Have fun... and I'll be up, anyway. It's my favorite night for anime," he nods back.
[16:48] <Anastasia> ---
[16:49] <Anastasia> Arriving at Alan's apartment, you see that Ann is already there, getting tea ready. "Hey," she calls, sounding happier than she usually was before Saturday. Less bitchy, too. Hopefully.
[16:51] <Makoto> "Hey Ann," Makoto greets, hoping they can get along better from now on.
[16:55] <Anastasia> "Hey, Ann," Alan echos your words. "Herb isn't here yet?" he asks, going to the couch.
[16:56] <Anastasia> "Hi, Makoto," she smiles, not even seeming that insincere. "He should be over soon, Alan. I just talked to him on the phone, and he's coming right over."
[17:01] * Makoto nods as she takes a seat besides Alan. "So what's the plan once he gets here?"
[17:01] * Prince_Herb drives over post-haste.
[17:03] <Anastasia> "We were just going to try watching some movies and having fun - like normal people," she comments, smiling wryly. "No energy draining or card monsters, just a nice afternoon."
[17:04] * Makoto giggles.
[17:07] <Anastasia> Alan puts his arm around Makoto, settling into the couch. "On that note, I'm happy now that our Cardians didn't do as well as we wanted them to," he remarks.
[17:10] * Makoto smirks. "I can relate with the feeling."
[17:13] <Anastasia> A few more minutes pass of light conversation until Herb arrives. Lucky fellow who has a car to cut down travel time, eh?
[17:14] * Prince_Herb rings the bell.
[17:17] <Anastasia> "I got it," Ann says, right as she places the tea and snacks(Crackers today) down. "Hey, Herb."
[17:18] <Makoto> "Hey Herb," Makoto also greets from the couch, where she's leaning against Alan.
[17:18] <Prince_Herb> "Hello, you two," says Herb, giving Ann a quick greeting hug.
[17:20] <Anastasia> Ann returns the hug, then takes Herb over to the other side of the couch from Alan and Makoto. "We were just going to watch some movies and try and do better than we did before," Ann explains, getting comfortable.
[17:21] <Prince_Herb> "Sounds great," says Herb. "What are we watching?" he asks, hoping that it will have a few frightening moments when Ann will cling to him, her soft body pressing against his muscular manly frame.
[17:24] <Anastasia> Alan gets up, going to the TV/VCR combo. "Um... Independence Day - the person at the store said it was some American action movie that was supposed to be good, and Blue Angel 3. It's some anime cartoon that's supposed to be romantic," he nods, picking up the tapes off the VCR top. "Which one should we watch first?"
[17:27] * Prince_Herb looks to Ann, wonering if she wants the romance first, or the adventure.
[17:28] <Anastasia> "How about that Day movie, or whatever it is," Ann suggests, shrugging.
[17:28] <Makoto> "Does it have subtitles?" Makoto asks.
[17:30] <Anastasia> "Um..." he looks at the back of the box, scanning it. "It says it's dubbed. That means it has voiceovers in Japanese?"
[17:31] * Makoto makes a face, but nods. "Man, I wish it was subtitles though. They always pick the worst dub actors for those international releases."
[17:32] <Anastasia> Alan shrugs, taking out and putting in the ID4 tape, then going back down to Makoto.
[17:33] * Makoto links her arms with Alan, getting comfy at his side, and peers over briefly towards Herb and Ann to see what they're doing.
[17:33] <Anastasia> Ann is sitting next to her, leaning towards him just a bit...
[17:34] <Anastasia> The movie stars, the voices even worse than Makoto thought they would be. Really, is the President of the US going to have a slightly girlish voice?
[17:36] <Anastasia> As it goes on, the aliens begin to attack. This triggers some commentary from Alan, however. "Bah. Like aliens would come in like that," he snorts derisively.
[17:38] <Anastasia> "Giant metal ships?" Ann nods. "That's insane! No way that could happen!"
[17:39] <Makoto> "Of course not," Makoto says with a slightly amused tone. "Anyhow, it's an American film," she adds, as if that was explanation enough.
[17:41] <Anastasia> "Those Americans don't know ANYTHING," Ann pouts. "I wouldn't be caught DEAD in one of those ships!"
[17:43] <Anastasia> Alan laughs a bit. "You know, Ann, we're supposed to be from there," Alan comments as the White House is fried into kibble. "I'd almost forgotten that."
[17:46] <Anastasia> "Oh yeah..." Ann blinks. "Wasn't that YOUR idea, Alan dear," she asks, her voice dripping with honey.
[17:46] * Makoto rolls her eyes. 'Oh not again...'
[17:47] <Anastasia> "Hmph," Alan mutters, not rising to it. Instead, he leans towards Makoto, ignoring Ann for the time being. Ann herself chortles at the small victory, letting the movie go on.
[17:49] * Makoto smiles at Alan, happy that he didn't start fighting with Ann, and puts her arm around Alan, as she also leans closer to him.
[17:50] <Prince_Herb> "Don't tease your brother so much, Ann-chan." Herb says. "I might get jealous." He winks and slips his arm around her trim waist
[17:50] <Anastasia> She doesn't resist the arm, settling in for the movie's finish.
[17:50] <Anastasia> Going on, the climax of the movie builds, the grumbling of Ann and Alan giving way to an enjoyable movie. By the time it's over...
[17:51] <Anastasia> Each couple is fairly well entwined by the end, Alan reluctantly getting up to change tapes. "That was alright, I guess, even if those aliens looked NOTHING like aliens."
[17:52] <Makoto> "Heh, you never know. There might be some race somewhere deep out there that looks like that," Makoto says, as she waits for Alan to sit back down.
[17:53] <Prince_Herb> "It didn't make any sense at all, but the explosions were neat." says Herb
[17:53] <Anastasia> "Heh, we never saw anything like that on our travels," Ann shrugs. Alan nods, putting in the next tape.
[17:56] <Anastasia> The next one is the animated tale of a guy and his live-in friend, who he has a crush on. She's drop dead gorgeous, too, and has a knack for being topless on camera. Lots of jiggling fanservice on her part... If you counted, you get the feeling her top would be on less often than it was off. Despite that, it is a semi-sweet romantic flick if you ignore the nudity.
[17:56] <Anastasia> Alan starts blushing at the first shot, somewhat uncomfortable at seeing this around Makoto. He glances at her, a bit off kilter.
[17:56] * Prince_Herb is distracted and blushes lots.
[17:56] <Prince_Herb> 'Mmmm... titties...' he thinks
[17:58] <Anastasia> "Heh," Alan peers forward at one nice scene where the heroine runs fully naked on camera, fresh from the bath, Alan blushing all the while and squirming a bit nervously.
[17:59] <Makoto> "Just out of curiosity, you didn't ask Umino for the film recommendations, did you?" Makoto asks, a bit more amused than anything, though she does take the time to whap Alan upside the head for all his blushing.
[17:59] <Anastasia> Ann, for her part, rolls her eyes at Alan's actions, but stays silent.
[18:00] <Anastasia> "Gah," Alan says, rubbing the back of his head. "No, the guy in the store said it was good. He didn't say that the title girl spent her time naked!"
[18:01] <Anastasia> 'Want Makoto to take lessons, hm Alan?' Ann sends, causing the elven boy to blush utterly crimson and burst into a coughing fit.
[18:04] <Makoto> "Are you okay, Alan?" Makoto asks, as she leans closer to him, rubbing his back to help him with his coughing.
[18:05] <Anastasia> "I'm fine," he manages, sending a nasty look to Ann. 'Why don't you give Herb a show,' he telepathically sends back, a touch annoyed.
[18:05] * Prince_Herb decides to distract Ann with a little more kissing, tearing his eyes away from the animated boobies on screen
[18:07] <Anastasia> Ann is taken off guard by this, responding slowly before it breaks. Alan turns away, blushing yet again.
[18:09] <Makoto> "Well they look like they're having fun..." Makoto mumbles low enough that only Alan should hear with a grin in her face.
[18:10] <Anastasia> A bit later the movie finishes, a cliffhanger for part 4. Ann gets up this time, putting the tape away. "Anyway, that was fun," she nods. "Herb, it's getting close to dinnertime. Did you want to get something to eat?"
[18:14] <Prince_Herb> "Sure. What did you have in mind?" Herb asks.
[18:15] <Anastasia> "Just to go out, the two of us, and get some food down at the corner restaurant," she smiles.
[18:16] <Makoto> 'Just the two of them?' Makoto thinks with amusement. 'Thought this was supposed to be a double date.'
[18:17] <Prince_Herb> "Ah, OK. Leaving Makoto here to cook up something special for Alan? Sounds nice." Herb stands up.
[18:17] <Anastasia> "Have fun," Alan waves, not arguing with Ann's change of plans in the slightest.
[18:21] <Prince_Herb> "They weren't expecting that," says Herb as he accompanies Ann down to the street, "Why are we leaving them alone? Not that I mind, but they might get up to all sorts of mischief." He winks.
[18:21] <Anastasia> "I just wanted to get out of the apartment," she shrugs. "Anyway, the place down here sells great tempura...."
[18:23] <Prince_Herb> "Ah, Tomoe-sensei said that you had a good appetite these days. Let's see just how good!" Herb grins
[18:27] <Anastasia> ----
[18:28] <Anastasia> After they walk out, Alan leans back on the couch. "Have fun?" he asks lazily, too comfortable to get up quite yet.
[18:29] <Makoto> "Yeah," Makoto says with a nod. "I did."
[18:30] <Makoto> "Hmm... since Herb suggested it, do you have anything in the fridge? I can see about cooking us something for dinner."
[18:31] <Anastasia> He nods. "I'm hungry myself, though," he comments, getting up. Going to the kitchenette, he goes right to a package of chips, starting in on them with a almost Usagi-like fury.
[18:33] <Makoto> 'Usagi would be jealous...' Makoto says with a raised eyebrow as she heads to the fridge to look for something healthier
[18:34] <Anastasia> Literally, he's through a fair-sized bag of chips in about a minute. "Whew," he says. "Ever since the Doom Tree shrunk down, I've been just ravenous. I guess food doesn't give as much energy as the Tree does."
[18:36] <Makoto> "Where do you guys get the money to buy all this food, anyhow?" Makoto asks curious as she browses inside the fridge for items she can use.
[18:37] <Anastasia> There are various discordant items in the fridge, plenty of food. "Heh. The Doom Tree took care of it," he explains. "Its magic set us up in this world with a place to live and money."
[18:39] <Makoto> "Oh? That's interesting. Is it still supplying you with money now that it's a sapling?" Makoto asks as she picks some old rice, a couple of eggs, and some meat, thinking of making some fried rice.
[18:40] <Anastasia> "It hasn't since the first time," he shrugs. "It made an account with a lot of yen in it."
[18:42] * Makoto nods, while looking for a frying pan. "That's useful. Why do you call it a Doom Tree by the way? If all it wants is love, I would imagine it'd be called something like the Love Tree, or the Tree of life, or some such..."
[18:43] <Makoto> Not finding the frying pan, she adds, "Oh yeah, where do you keep the frying pans?"
[18:48] <Anastasia> "It's what we always called it," Alan shrugs, "And it's in the third lower cabinet, I think."
[18:51] * Makoto nods and gets the pan, and as she lets it heat while breaking the eggs and mixing them in a bowl, she adds, "We should go ask it if it has a name then. Or if it wants something other than Doom Tree. It's not really the prettiest of names."
[18:59] <Anastasia> Alan comes over, observing your cooking. "Yeah," he agrees. "You're probably right about that," Alan smiles, kissing your cheek.
[19:03] * Makoto blushes, but continues moving the food in preparation.
[19:08] <Anastasia> Alan smiles, leaning over them to smell the food. "Smells good," he nods, with another peck on your cheek.
[19:11] * Makoto continues blushing, trying to keep her attention on the food, instead of getting distracted by Alan. The best way to ruin food was not watching what you were doing. After a short enough while, the food is almost ready, and she asks Alan to set the table.
[19:12] <Anastasia> Alan comes along, ready to tear in.
[19:14] <Makoto> Setting the food on the table, she sits beside Alan, as opposed to at the other side of the table. "Let's dig in," Makoto says, while placing a decent serving on Alan's plate before some for herself.
[19:16] <Anastasia> Alan nods, digging into his food with abandon. Your 'decent serving' lasts him about half a minute, his hunger getting his instincts going.
[19:18] <Makoto> 'Good thing I prepared with the assumption I was cooking for Usagi,' Makoto thinks as Alan devastates serving after serving.
[19:22] <Anastasia> After four servings, Alan is done. So is the meal, for that matter. "That was great," he smiles at you brightly, clearly sated.
[19:25] <Makoto> "Thanks," Makoto says. "Lucky that you had the items for something simple like that."
[19:26] <Anastasia> "Yeah." Alan pauses a moment. "I was thinking about learning how to cook," he says, on subject. "And you're a really good cook, so..."
[19:29] * Makoto smirks. "Sure, I'll teach you how to cook. You could also take Home Ec for help with that."
[19:29] <Anastasia> He grins. "Great," he leans over again, kissing Makoto. "Do you take that class next semester?"
[19:31] <Makoto> "I probably will. It's a nice class," Makoto replies. "Who knows, we might get to partner up."
[19:34] <Anastasia> "That would be fun," he nods. "So..." he smiles, a bit differently this time. "How about dessert, Makoto?"
[19:35] <Makoto> "I didn't see anything in the fridge that would make a good dessert, Alan," Makoto says, oddly enough missing the different smile.
[19:36] <Anastasia> Alan stumbles a bit, but then presses on, meeting his warm lips with yours.
[19:37] <Anastasia> "Or something," he grins, coming up a second later.
[19:39] <Makoto> "Ah...." Makoto says brightly with understanding as she moves closer to Alan. "So how long before Ann gets back?" she asks, her lips not even an inch from Alan's.
[19:39] <Anastasia> "Quite a while," he says back, grinning and leaning forward to the closest he can be without contact.
[19:42] <Makoto> "Oh good..." Makoto whispers before pressing her lips to his.
[11:30] <Usagi-chan> -----
[11:32] <Usagi-chan> Another day of valuable, yet boring education draws to a close at Mugen Gakuen. The after-school lull finds two blondes alone in the former Witches' office, both poking at their respective homework with disinterest.
[11:33] * Usagi-chan growls at her Earth science book, slamming it closed. "That's it, I'm done!" She sits back with a groan. "I hate science..."
[11:34] <Haruka> "Having problems, Usagi?" Haruka asks for the sake of asking.
[11:36] <Usagi-chan> "Why do they have to give so MUCH homework?" the odangoed princess grouses. "And no, I really am done... I'm just tired of doing stupid homework." She makes a face.
[11:37] * Haruka chuckles at that, putting the last touches on her assignment and setting it aside for the moment.
[11:38] * Usagi-chan turns to look at the older girl. "How about you?"
[11:41] <Haruka> Haruka shrugs at that. "Eh, homework is just like a chore so I don't mind it much." Shifting in her seat to get comfortable, she continues, "Besides, I don't have much to do during my free-time so it doesn't bother me much."
[11:43] * Usagi-chan grins. "We'll just have to do something about that then. You ever go to the arcade much?"
[11:46] * Haruka cocks her head to one side while looking at Usagi, wondering slightly what was running through her companion's head. "Oh," Haruka replied, "I've been in enough to know my way around."
[11:48] * Usagi-chan grabs Haruka's hand, still grinning. "Then let's see what you can do!" She forcibly drags Haruka away from her desk, barely giving the sandy blonde enough time to collect her books before getting pulled out of the office entirely.
[11:49] <Haruka> Haruka goes without protest, wondering slightly if this was going to lead to an interesting entry into her journal....
[11:49] <Usagi-chan> A short trip later finds the pair entering the Crown Arcade, Usagi giving Motoki a wave and an order for her usual. She propels Haruka over towards a booth, giggling the whole way. "You looked like you needed to get out and have some fun, and I do too."
[11:52] <Haruka> "Was it that obvious?" Haruka asks while settling into her seat.
[11:53] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I have a knack for it." Usagi winks at the other blonde. "Besides, I've been wanting to get to know you a little better anyway - there just hasn't really been any time to talk so far."
[11:56] <Haruka> "Oh?" Haruka replies, a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. Hunkering down close, in hushed tones, she whispers, "Isn't Rei going to be jealous?" Haruka winks at Usagi at the end.
[11:58] * Usagi-chan grins. "Not if we don't tell her!" she says in a conspiratorial whisper, returning the wink. "She said she had to meet someone at the shrine after school today anyway, so she knows I'm on the prowl." This comment elicits a giggle from the blonde.
[12:00] <Haruka> "And the conspiracy grows." Haruka says with a light chuckle. Leaning back into the chair she looks at Usagi directly, "So, straight to the point, anything in particular you wanted to talk about?"
[12:01] * Usagi-chan shrugs. "I just wanted to find out some about you, if you don't mind - like how long you've lived in Tokyo, who you usually hang out with, that kind of stuff." She smiles.
[12:05] <Haruka> "I don't mind really." Haruka says, trying to reassure Usagi. "Hmm... let's see," she mumbles, tapping a finger to her chin, "I haven't been in the Tokyo area too long. I've been moving around quite a lot, actually."
[12:05] <Usagi-chan> "Really? Where else have you lived?"
[12:08] <Haruka> "The short answer would be 'where haven't I been', I guess." Haruka answers sheepishly. "Kamakura, Yokosuka, Osaka, Kyoto..." she trails off as the list starts to get long.
[12:09] <Usagi-chan> "Wow... I've lived here in Juuban all my life - only visited Kyoto once on vacation." Usagi seems impressed.
[12:10] <Haruka> "I don't have much of anything to tie me down so I'm free to come and go where I please," she answered with a shrug.
[12:11] <Usagi-chan> "What about your parents? Does your dad have a job that moves him around a lot or something?" Usagi asks.
[12:15] <Haruka> "Hit it on the head there, Usagi," Haruka said with a smirk. "Dad was a musician and we moved often. I suppose that's where I picked the habit up."
[12:16] <Usagi-chan> "That's kind of cool - what kind of music?" The blonde smiles.
[12:18] <Haruka> "He was a classical pianist," Haruka said, then paused to ponder something. "I think he tried out for the symphony once, but he mostly stuck to playing in lounges."
[12:19] <Usagi-chan> "Was? Is he doing something else now?" Usagi gives the sandy blonde a curious look.
[12:22] <Haruka> Placing her elbows on the table, she pillows her head on the palms of her hand. "You know... I don't really know what he's doing now. I'm sure he's doing something or other."
[12:23] * Usagi-chan grimaces. "Sorry... guess I shouldn't have asked." She ducks her head in embarrassment.
[12:25] <Haruka> "Don't worry about it," she says, dispelling the apology with a wave of her hand. "We broke on good terms so it's not like any bad feelings were involved." Haruka chuckles lightly as some stray memories flit through her mind.
[12:27] <Usagi-chan> "Well, that's good I guess. Rei-chan doesn't even speak with her father - or even ABOUT him." Usagi smiles a bit.
[12:30] <Haruka> "That's a shame," Haruka said, and she meant it. Not quite liking the depressive turn the conversation might've headed towards she shifted gears. "So, what about you, Usagi?"
[12:30] <Usagi-chan> "Me? What did you want to know?" Usagi grins.
[12:33] <Haruka> "Nothing too specific, I suppose." Haruka replied. "Anything you're comfortable talking about."
[12:34] * Usagi-chan smiles. "I don't mind talking about just about anything... was there anything specific you wanted to know about me?"
[12:37] <Haruka> Haruka smirked. "Oh, what to ask, what to ask... How about for starters your own home situation, and what that's like?"
[12:38] * Usagi-chan smiles. "That's easy enough. My dad's name is Kenji, and he's a photographer for the newspaper. My mom's name is Ikkuko, and I have an incredibly annoying little weasel of a brother named Shingo. Luna lives with me, and that's more or less all there is to it."
[12:43] <Haruka> Haruka nodded idly taking the information in, but in the back of her mind wondered how to frame the question she really wanted answered. 'It's not an easy topic to suddenly jump to...' Haruka thought to herself.
[12:44] * Usagi-chan gives Haruka a curious look. "Something wrong?"
[12:49] <Haruka> 'Am I like an open book to this girl!?' Haruka wondered to herself. Shaking her head Haruka looked Usagi in the eyes and said what had been bugging her. "You see Usagi, I've had these dreams..." Haruka trails off lamely, not even sure she wants to continue.
[12:51] <Usagi-chan> "What kind of dreams?" Usagi gives the older girl a concerned look, knowing that dreams usually aren't a topic of conversation unless they're trouble.
[12:55] <Haruka> Noticing the concerned look only added to Haruka's growing unease. "Well, I don't really know how to describe them really..." Haruka let out a tired breath, knowing this was one of the reasons she kept talking to others down to a minimum. "They're more like... memories?" she said, not even sure herself if that was quite right.
[12:56] * Usagi-chan places a hand on top of Haruka's. "Memories of the past, you mean?"
[12:58] <Haruka> "Yes!" Haruka replies, a bit too excitedly. She coughed, trying to mask her slip as a slight blush tinged her cheeks.
[13:00] * Usagi-chan motions for Haruka to keep her voice down, although she smiles. "What exactly do you remember? Anything in particular?"
[13:04] <Haruka> "I remember someone... from a long time ago, and she was important to me," Haruka answers. "Somehow." Haruka frowned at how vague that turned out. "Er, is any of this making any sense or am I just being crazy here?"
[13:06] <Usagi-chan> "Not at all." Usagi gives Haruka a reassuring smile. "All of us have some kind of memories from the Silver Millenium - some of us more, some of us less. Right now, I'd probably say I remember more than any of the other senshi, although Mamoru remembers even more than that."
[13:09] <Haruka> "Then do you know who I'm talking about?" Haruka asks with a desperate, pleading look. "I need to know, Usagi. If you know anything, anything at all, please...."
[13:11] * Usagi-chan frowns a little. "I'd guess it was one of the other outer senshi - I'm afraid I didn't know any of you all that well though. The outer senshi were almost never at the palace. I don't know their names off the top of my head, but I can find out for you if you want."
[13:16] <Haruka> Haruka deflates a bit, nodding her head. "I'd like that..." she says in a quiet voice, out of place with her usual manner. She put her head down onto the table as if a great weight had been lifted off her shoulders. "Outer senshi?" Haruka finally asks, the rest of what Usagi said trickling through her mind.
[13:17] <Usagi-chan> "Kind of an informal name for the senshi from the planets beyond Jupiter." Usagi replies. "The inner senshi were from the planets closer in, and they were my personal guard back in the Silver Millenium."
[13:21] <Haruka> "Then what did the 'Outers' do?" Haruka asks, her full attention now in the conversation.
[13:23] <Usagi-chan> "They spent more of their time patrolling the system for outside threats, rather than worrying about affairs inside the kingdom." Usagi replies. 'Like Oxyite.'
[13:27] <Haruka> "So there are others like me..." Haruka trails off wistfully. "So then, where are the others? It'd be nice to be able to meet them." Haruka pauses for a moment. "Not that I don't appreciate being with you and your friends, Usagi," Haruka adds quickly, "But, it's just... sometimes I just feel out of place...." she finishes lamely.
[13:30] * Usagi-chan nods. "I understand. I know that Sailor Pluto - her name is Setsuna - is around, but generally speaking you don't find her, she finds you." Usagi makes a face. "We haven't found Sailor Saturn yet, and you... know what happened to Sailor Neptune."
[13:35] * Haruka was clearly crestfallen, but nodded in reply. 'I wonder if the person in my dream is this Setsuna or Hotaru?' she wondered to herself. 'Or Neptune...' She tried not to be sulky about the whole affair, by giving Usagi a smile. "Thanks," Haruka says, "for listening and telling me all this."
[13:42] * Usagi-chan smiles. "You don't need to thank me. If it helps you out, I don't mind doing it at all. In fact..." The blonde pauses for a moment, a look of concentration on her face. About a minute or so passes, and then Usagi nods. "Looks like I can actually go look tonight, Rei-chan's going to be busy for the rest of the night."
[13:44] * Haruka cocks her head to one side confused. "Go look for who tonight?"
[13:45] <Usagi-chan> "Find the names of the other outer princesses, of course." Usagi grins. "You're welcome to come along if you want, although there's not going to be a whole lot you can do up there."
[13:48] <Haruka> "Oh, I don't mind tagging along at all." Haruka says with a casual wave. "It's not like I have anything planned anyway."
[13:49] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Want to go now then?"
[13:54] * Haruka nods. "Sure."
[13:55] <Usagi-chan> "Come on then - we can leave from my house. Besides, it'll give me a chance to introduce you to my mom." Usagi winks, standing up from the table and beckoning to the older girl.
[13:56] * Haruka chuckles. "I'm telling Rei," Haruka teases, matching Usagi's wink.
[13:58] * Usagi-chan rolls her eyes. "Come on..." She takes the taller girl's hand, pulling her out of the arcade and out into the streets of Juuban once again. It's not a long trip at all for the two to reach the Tsukino home, which is unusually quiet to Usagi's ears.
[13:59] * Usagi-chan opens the front door, leading Haruka inside. "I'm hooooome!" she shouts, but the only response is a resounding chorus of silence. Further investigation reveals a note on the refrigerator: "Usagi, I'm out shopping if you get this note. Make sure to clean up your room before I get home - Mom."
[14:02] * Haruka chuckles, reading the note from over Usagi's shoulder.
[14:03] * Usagi-chan grumbles. "My room can wait, this is more important. At least I can change without having to worry about Shingo butting into my room." Usagi grins, closing her eyes as she concentrates.
[14:11] <Haruka> It might not have been the first time she'd seen the transformation, but it was no less spectacular and... "So is THAT why you and the others went to another room to change, Usagi-chan?" Haruka chuckles. "I'm dissapointed, it seems I really missed out."
[14:11] * Serenity-hime grins. "Your transformation is just as bad, Haruka - and I've seen YOURS too."
[14:11] * Haruka coughs.
[14:16] * Serenity-hime places a hand on Haruka's shoulder as she begins to chant softly. A soft white light spreads out to encompass the two, and then a brief moment of blackness envelops the pair. When Haruka can make out her surroundings again, the two are standing in the Lunar library, the crystalline shelves gleaming in the light.
[14:22] * Haruka finds a seat and makes herself comfortable.
[14:25] <Serenity-hime> "Sorry, but there's not much to do up here unless you really feel like cleaning or something," Serenity says apologetically. "Hopefully this won't take too long." With that, the princess disappears into the shelves. Perhaps ten minutes pass before she returns to the table where Haruka sits, carrying a rather large leatherbound tome.
[14:26] <Serenity-hime> "Royal Families of the Solar System, all the way up to 1040." Serenity grins. "This should have everyone in it."
[14:27] <Haruka> "How convenient," Haruka commented. "Do we all resemble our counterparts from that time, Usagi?" Haruka asks, genuinely curious about the matter.
[14:29] * Serenity-hime smiles. "Judge for yourself." Serenity opens the book, leafing through it for a few moments. "How much like her do I look?" She points out a color plate in the book, depicting Queen and Princess Serenity standing side by side.
[14:34] * Haruka hunkers down to look at the image pointed to and blinks. "Oh," she says in reply, noting the similarities, then asked what was on her mind. "What about the others? The 'Outers'?"
[14:36] <Serenity-hime> "Probably towards the back of the book - according to the contents, the Moon is first, then the planets in order from the Sun." Turning back a few pages to the contents - Haruka can see that the format is about right, although the characters are gibberish - Serenity consults it for a moment and then turns through a large segment of the book. After a few seconds, she has the book open to a page depicting a ringed planet.
[14:38] <Serenity-hime> "They start with Saturn." She turns a few more pages, and finds a picture of a young girl holding a vicious looking glaive - Serenity pales at the sight of the weapon. The girl has short black hair and violet eyes, a lonely expression on her face.
[14:39] * Haruka notes the reaction and in a worried tone asks, "What's wrong, Usagi?"
[14:40] <Serenity-hime> "That weapon she's holding... I've seen it before - and not in the past." She shakes her head, still looking rather drained. "It was draining my energy, according to Setsuna and Rei."
[14:44] <Haruka> "Draining your energy?" Haruka echoes, then asks another question. "And if not in the past, when?" Haruka wasn't sure what was going on and the questions just kept tumbling out of her mouth.
[14:45] <Serenity-hime> "It was shortly after we defeated Metallia. There's a hall up here that had a lot of artifacts in it, belonging to the senshi - Venus' sword, a pair of wands for Mars, a bracelet for Mercury, and a mace for Jupiter. And that glaive. At least I know who it belongs with, now." Serenity explains.
[14:48] * Haruka nods, then tentatively asks, "When you said it was draining your energy, you mean 'was' as in past tense and not anymore, right?"
[14:50] * Serenity-hime nods. "It got replaced back in the artifact hall after we found out about it, and it's got three different energy shields on it now. Right now I'm the only person who can get it out of the chest it's in, and I'm not going to do that until I can give it to its rightful owner."
[14:51] * Haruka nods, relieved.
[14:53] * Serenity-hime scans the text caption of the picture. "It says this is Princess Hotaru of Saturn, shown holding the Silence Glaive. I guess that's what its name is." Serenity frowns a bit at the name, but shakes her head. "Does this look like the figure in your dream?"
[14:55] * Haruka frowns in thought, studying the image. "Hotaru..." she says, trying out the name. I... I don't think so, but I'm not sure.... Haruka shook her head in disgust and cursing her memory for not cooperating at an important time like this.
[14:56] <Serenity-hime> "On to the next one then." Serenity nods, flipping through perhaps a dozen more pages until she comes to a greenish-looking planet with a thin vertical ring around it. She smiles when she reads the name, but doesn't say it out loud for the other girl.
[15:03] <Haruka> "Uranus," Haruka says with a smile. She touches her own face sub-consciously, noting the similarities in wonderment. "Hey! I think my breasts are bigger in that picture," Haruka mock grumps for Usagi's amusement.
[15:07] * Serenity-hime grins, having turned to the princess' portrait. "Maybe... you DO look a little older in the picture than you do now." The picture does show a slightly older-looking Haruka, brandishing a rather impressive-looking curved sword. "Princess Haruka of Uranus, with the Space Sword." Serenity grins. "That's the Talisman you have in your Heart Crystal."
[15:10] * Haruka places a hand over her heart at that. "In my Heart Crystal?" she repeated, a tint of wonder in her voice.
[15:11] * Serenity-hime nods, looking a little guilty. "Yeah... that's what Eudial was checking when the Professor called you up to his office. I wish we could have checked it some other way, but at least we know for sure now." Serenity drops her eyes, unable to look Haruka in the face.
[15:15] <Haruka> "Don't worry about it," Haruka says without pause. "You did what you had to, there's no fault in that." She placed her hand on Usagi's shoulder gently in what she hoped was a reassuring gesture.
[15:19] * Serenity-hime smiles halfheartedly. "I still feel bad about it... but anyway, let's move on to the next one." She riffles through the book again, a brief glimpse of a large blue-green planet flickering past for a moment before she stops at another portrait. This is of a young woman with long, aqua-green hair and blue eyes, bearing what looks to be a small hand-mirror. Serenity gets a rather solemn expression as she reads the caption.
[15:26] <Haruka> Haruka's eyes meet with those of the woman in the portrait and her breath catches in her throat. The thundering of her heartbeat makes it hard to think as all her senses tunnel until, for a time, only she and the portrait existed. The sensation of something wet on the back of her hand stirs her and she is surprised to see teardrops there. 'When did I...? Why am I...?'
[15:27] * Serenity-hime turns to look at Haruka from the corner of her eye. "Are you all right, Haruka-san?" she asks quietly.
[15:31] * Haruka didn't say anything for a time, staring fixedly at the portrait. "I... I don't know...." she replied, looking at Usagi as tears flow heedless of her inner commands to stop.
[15:34] * Serenity-hime places a hand gently on Haruka's shoulder. "This is Michiru of Neptune... Sailor Neptune, the one who died to Oxyite," she says quietly.
[15:40] <Haruka> As if a fog in her mind had lifted, the images in her dreams finally had form, identity and name. "Michiru..." she utters reverently. 'Michiru, Sailor Neptune.' she whispers in her mind as her eyes close in contentment. Her eyes snap open suddenly, the last of what Usagi had said not seeming to even register. "Where!? Where is she??" she asks imploringly.
[15:41] <Serenity-hime> "I'm sorry, Haruka." Serenity says quietly. "She's gone."
[15:44] <Haruka> "Gone...?" Haruka repeated, before grabbing a hold of one of Usagi's hands. "No no no no, you can't mean that!!" she begs, looking into Usagi's eyes. "B-but, I'm here... How can I be here while she's not? Maybe... maybe you're wrong?" Haruka asks with hope, though even in her own ears, the belief in the statement was weak at best.
[15:46] * Serenity-hime shakes her head, tears springing to her eyes at the depths of the other girl's feeling. "She was killed long before Metallia invaded, and she wasn't touched by the Ginzuishou when Mother used it to send the rest of us to the future."
[15:52] <Haruka> "Why, Usagi, why?" she asks weakly. "It's... It's not fair! This is too cruel!" Haruka shakes her head wildly. "I, I spent 4 years looking for her... I gave up everything for this!" She seems to cave-in on herself, the light visibly dulling in her eyes. "What did I do wrong, Usagi? Why am I being punished?" she asks in a weak, barely audible whisper.
[15:56] * Serenity-hime places her arms around the grieving Haruka, offering her sympathy as best she can. "You didn't do anything, Haruka. You did all you could back then, but Oxyite was just too powerful." She takes a shuddering breath. "Sometimes there just isn't anything more you can do... all you can do is pick up the pieces and move on." She rubs the older girl's back gently. "What happened is terrible... but we have to keep going."
[16:06] <Haruka> Haruka releases a shuddering breath, trying to calm herself. She takes in Usagi's presence and comfort, though the thought of shaking free from her grasp had entered her thoughts... From her spot, she speaks to Usagi softly, albeit a bit shakily. "Thank you, Usagi."
[16:08] * Serenity-hime shakes her head slightly. "You don't need to thank me, Haruka." Still stroking the larger girl's back softly, she continues. "I know it's hard to lose someone close to you, and it hurts a lot. But I promise it'll get better."
[16:14] <Haruka> Haruka shakes her head at that, but the words weren't enough comfort to her ragged heart, which seemed to whisper that the pain had only just begun. "Remember how I told you that I moved around a lot probably from habit from my father?" Haruka says. "Lies. I was looking for her the entire time. All those years on the road... I even dreamed of how it'd eventually turn out..."
[16:15] <Serenity-hime> "I'm so sorry, Haruka... I wish I'd had better news to give you." The princess buries her head in Haruka's shoulder.
[16:20] <Haruka> "Rei is lucky," Haruka whispered to Usagi. Closing her eyes, she asks, "Do you think it's possible for reincarnation without magic? Do you think she's out there in another form?" Haruka shifts so as to see Usagi's face to gauge her reaction.
[16:22] * Serenity-hime separates from Haruka a bit, shaking her head. "No, I don't think she reincarnated on her own. Setsuna - Sailor Pluto - asked me, as the Queen, to look for a new person to become Sailor Neptune. I don't think she'd have done that if there was any chance that Michiru had reincarnated on her own."
[16:24] <Haruka> Haruka lets out the anxious breath she's been holding. "I see...."
[16:26] * Serenity-hime takes one of Haruka's hands, giving it a gentle squeeze as she smiles at the sandy blonde. "She'll always be with you in spirit, Haruka-san - and she'll always live in your memories. Treasure what you have of her."
[16:32] <Haruka> Haruka nods her head weakly, squeezing Usagi's hand in reply. "Usagi," Haruka began, "Would I be able to borrow that book? I want to be able to see it a little longer, in private. I've got some stuff to work out."
[16:33] <Serenity-hime> "Sure, although I really don't think you're going to be able to read any of it. If you want any help with that, though, just ask Ami-chan or me - we're both pretty much fluent in Lunarian now, so if you want to know what it says we can translate it for you." Serenity closes the large tome, pushing it across the table towards Haruka.
[16:38] * Haruka takes the book and brings it close to her chest, resting her chin upon it. 'Michiru,' she whispers in her mind.
[16:39] * Serenity-hime reaches over and pats Haruka's shoulder. "Did you need to get back for anything?"
[16:43] <Haruka> "No, I don't think I need anything," Haruka mumbles with her eyes closed. "I just feel so tired and drained right now...."
[16:46] * Serenity-hime nods. "I'm probably going to go ahead and do some work while I'm up here, then. If you're tired, you can rest in here - there are futons back in Ami's study." Serenity points to a curtained off room at the far end of the library. "There's a heater and a fridge in there too, if you're cold or hungry. I'll be back in a couple of hours or so." Giving Haruka one last pat on the shoulder, she stands. "Just yell if you need me - I'll be close enough to hear you."
[16:52] * Haruka decides to take Usagi up on the offer and steps into the study that Ami had set up. Collapsing upon the bedding, she closes her eyes and lets out an exhausted sigh.
[16:54] * Serenity-hime sighs as she heads out of the library for the guest wing, wishing that she hadn't had to break that terrible news to Haruka. Her thoughts of a decidedly melancholy tone, she throws herself into her work, slowly but steadily returning the guest rooms to a state of usability.
[16:54] <Serenity-hime> -----
[10:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> Wednesday morning dawns, Usagi's t'ai chi going without note. As you return back to your apartment afterwards in the greyish dawn, you chance on an old friend whom you haven't seen in awhile.
[10:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> Jogging down a side street is Ryuu, his normal vest and pants shed for a simple sweat suit. It looks like he's just warming up for the day.
[10:53] * Sorceress_Herb gives the martial artist a friendly wave as he passes.
[10:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> He sees you, swerving from his path. "Hey Herb," he calls, blue hair in contrast with his grey clothes. "Haven't seen you around much lately."
[10:59] <Prince_Herb> "Ah, I've suddenly become very busy." says Herb. "Things like a girlfriend and a new job are biting into my time right now."
[11:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> "A girlfriend," he grins as he trots up, "Congratulations, Herb. Found someone fiery enough to keep up with you, eh?"
[11:02] * Prince_Herb laughs. "Fiery's not quite the word, but she's lively and cheerful and pretty and smart..."
[11:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> "And all yours," he concludes himself, chuckling. He settles into a walk next to you, in no hurry now. "Have you had any luck with the Dragon Scale technique yet?"
[11:04] <Prince_Herb> "I'm making steady progress. That means no, by the way."
[11:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "Yeah? Well, it's a hard one," he agrees. "And the rest of your training? I hope one roadblock hasn't derailed the rest of it."
[11:07] <Prince_Herb> "No, my ki attacks seem to be defter these days, I think. Your father knew what he was talking about in those scrolls, right enough. How about you? Did you think any more about that training trip?"
[11:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> He frowns a bit at the mention of that trip. "I thought about it. Hell, I'm still thinking about it." He shakes his head, sighing. "The truth is that I think you pushed me to a breakthough, and I've been improving quite a bit since then. Now? I'm trashing friends who I could barely keep up with last year."
[11:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I mean, I'm happy that I'm getting stronger, but it's no good without anyone who can keep up, you know?"
[11:16] <Prince_Herb> "It's not easy for me either. I think you're the only man in Tokyo who's still a challenge. If it wasn't for the constant wrestling with your father's secret techniques, I might get a little bored."
[11:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods at that. "Yep," he brightens at that. "Say, we should have ourselves a good match now, since we can't find anyone else decent to fight," he suggests, hoping.
[11:19] <Prince_Herb> "Sure, but we can't go all the way this time. I have a class to take this morning, and the kids would be worried if I turned up half-dead."
[11:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu nods. "Okay, I'll lay off the hard stuff," he agrees.
[11:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[11:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu's small and well-kept dojo is as you remember it, a small mecca of martial arts skills in the middle of Tokyo. He goes to change into his normal gear before the match, clearly excited about a decent spar or two.
[11:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> He comes in, ready and grinning. "So, let's not make it too rough," he nods to you.
[11:26] <Prince_Herb> "I will go easy on you," Herb agrees.
[11:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "Ready... let's go!"
[11:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative.
[11:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:28] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[11:29] <Prince_Herb> roll 1d6+9
[11:29] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 1d6+9 and gets 10."
[11:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> Charging forward, Ryuu goes into a simple sweep, testing Herb's defenses from the get-go!
[11:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:30] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[11:30] <Prince_Herb> roll 2d6
[11:30] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[11:35] * Prince_Herb gracefully flows to one side, and tries to gently touch Ryuu with one hand, using the force of his ki to send the martial artist flying.
[11:35] <Prince_Herb> roll 2d6
[11:35] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[11:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:35] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[11:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu rolls back, away from your hand, coming up a few feet back, unscathed and dropping into a combat stance with a smile.
[11:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative.
[11:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:38] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[11:38] <Prince_Herb> roll 1d6+9 for initiative
[11:38] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 1d6+9 for initiative and gets 15."
[11:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Not bad," he calls, "I haven't missed in awhile."
[11:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> Off this, he springs forward again, a ki-laced palm strike aimed for your chest!
[11:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:40] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[11:40] <Prince_Herb> roll 2d6
[11:40] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:41] * Prince_Herb simply ducks and strikes low, aiming to take one of Ryuu's feet out from under him.
[11:41] <Prince_Herb> roll 2d6
[11:41] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:41] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[11:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu's left foot is struck, causing him to stumble into a heap on the floor! He goes into a defensive recovery roll, again backing up and wincing a bit. "Damn..."
[11:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative.
[11:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:43] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[11:43] <Prince_Herb> roll 1d6+9
[11:43] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 1d6+9 and gets 15."
[11:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> Instead of going straight to the offensive, he instead jumps straight up, his fist plunging downward as it hits the wooden floor, a pinpoint shockwave coming from it right at Herb! "Earth's Stunning Rumble!" he cries as his fist hits the ground.
[11:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:48] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[11:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - +1 to dodge check
[11:50] <Prince_Herb> roll 2d6+1
[11:50] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 2d6+1 and gets 8."
[11:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> The shock wave causes a small quake where Herb stands, sending him to his knees a bit harshly! (Action disrupted this round, and 5 damage.) Ryuu steadies himself after that, using the break to get his bearings back after your successful strike.
[11:52] <Prince_Herb> "That wasn't one of your normal attacks..." Herb says. "Where did you learn that?"
[11:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> He grins. "Actually, I made it up as a variant to a basic ki attack, sent through the Earth," he nods. "It's kind of a derivative from one of my father's skills."
[11:55] * Prince_Herb rolls to his feet. "I fight on!"
[11:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu goes back into his fighting stance, "I was expecting no less!"
[11:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[11:55] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[11:56] <Prince_Herb> roll 1d6+9
[11:56] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 1d6+9 and gets 11."
[11:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> Going forth again with more confidence, Ryuu goes for a flashy jump kick, aiming to send Herb a-flyin'!
[11:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:57] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[11:58] <Prince_Herb> roll 2d6
[11:58] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[11:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> The blow connects, launching Herb backwards for a meeting with the wooden floor! (10 damage.)
[12:04] <Prince_Herb> "It's not my day today," Herb says, with a sigh, and leaps back into the fray, trying a simple punch to the solar plexus, an old favourite.
[12:04] <Prince_Herb> roll 2d6
[12:04] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[12:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[12:04] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[12:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu's eyes bug as the blow finds it's way home, causing him to gasp in pain! Despite that he rebounds quickly, although his posture is now a bit protective of the injury. "Good shot," he admits.
[12:08] <Prince_Herb> "Thanks." Herb says, "Appreciate the compliment."
[12:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[12:35] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[12:36] <Prince_Herb> roll 1d6+9
[12:36] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 1d6+9 and gets 13."
[12:37] <Prince_Herb> "Two strikes on each of us. One more for the match?" Herb offers
[12:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Sounds good," he agrees.
[12:40] * Prince_Herb feints left, but strikes right with a short sharp jab to the ribs
[12:40] <Prince_Herb> roll 2d6
[12:40] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[12:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[12:40] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[12:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu is able to twist away at the last feasible second, countering with an attempted throw!
[12:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[12:44] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[12:46] <Prince_Herb> roll 2d6
[12:46] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[12:46] <Prince_Herb> But Herb in turn twists away out of Ryuu's grasp.
[12:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative
[12:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[12:47] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[12:47] <Prince_Herb> roll 1d6
[12:47] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[12:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu wastes no time, sending an elbow to Herb's muscled ribs!
[12:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[12:47] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[12:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> But he's misaimed, swinging way too early to hit Herb.
[12:51] * Prince_Herb grabs the elbow and tries for a throw, falling backward softly onto the mat while flipping Ryuu gracefully overhead
[12:51] <Prince_Herb> roll 2d6
[12:51] * Musk-bot --> "Prince_Herb rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[12:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[12:53] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[12:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu again tries a last minute dodge, but fails and is thrown quite ungracefully across the room!
[12:55] * Prince_Herb turns and bows. "Many thanks for the challenging bout, Ryuu-san."
[12:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu gets up, rubbing his side. "Bah, I lost?" he mutters, then smiles. "Good match," he bows back.
[12:57] <Prince_Herb> "Some day you must surely win, Ryuu-san. You get better every time we fight." Herb says.
[12:58] <Prince_Herb> "Now I have to run and change into my work clothes, but we'll fight again soon!"
[12:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "Until then."
[13:09] * Prince_Herb runs to change for his first class at Mugen
[09:28] <Anastasia> ---
[09:28] <Anastasia> Monday and Tuesday are spent mainly 'getting your shit together' about the job, which means you don't really start until Wednesday.
[09:29] <Anastasia> A swimsuit, a whistle and a smile - the recommended gear for your new job.
[09:31] <Anastasia> Heading towards the gym offices, your schedule for the day will be in there, along with probably a few members of your new working staff.
[09:31] * Princess_Herb takes her fashion sense from Nyamo and is wearing a nice new tracksuit and trainers.
[09:32] * Princess_Herb wonders if the gym teachers will be sane.
[09:36] <Anastasia> Entering into the cramped offices, you notice it's also partly a white-walled storage area, bins of basketballs and softball gear about. A few chairs and very cluttered desks are about, as well as one sweats-wearing man, at least forty with salt-and-pepper gray hair. One of his eyes twitches hugely when he sees you. "Are you... THE... new replacement... TEACHER?"
[09:37] <Princess_Herb> "Yes, I'm the new part-time assistant swimming coach. Is there something wrong?" Herb asks.
[09:39] <Anastasia> "Nothing at... ALL," he sounds, quite loudly and with force. As he speaks, his eye twitches with each almost shouted, emphasized word. "Schedule is on the... BULLETIN... board."
[09:41] * Princess_Herb looks around for the bulletin board. "My name is Herb, by the way."
[09:43] <Anastasia> The bulletin board is a beaten up, well-covered-with-old-papers affair, a new one tacked on. Your schedule is two classes of swimming today, one after another. The first starts in 10 minutes.
[09:43] <Anastasia> He doesn't reply, just twitching that one eye of his.
[09:46] * Princess_Herb feels a little nervous, since she hasn't much idea what's expected of her at this point. "What am I meant to be doing with these two classes? Are they mixed ability, beginners, advanced, or just plain duffers?"
[09:47] <Anastasia> "Just... BASICS," he grunts. "Nothing fancy at... ALL."
[09:50] * Princess_Herb nods and trusts that 'Introduction to Swimming, Teaching, and Coaching' will get her through this lesson unscathed.
[09:50] <Anastasia> With ten minutes, you have enough time to change into your suit and not much else for the day.
[09:51] <Princess_Herb> Fingers crossed, Herb awaits the arrival of the first class.
[09:52] <Anastasia> They filter in, all girls dressed in the same green one-piece bathing suits. Nothing of note in this cla... wait. Unless your eyes are mistaken, that's Viluy in the back. She's looking at you in surprise.
[09:55] <Princess_Herb> "Good morning class! My name is Herb and I'll be taking you for swimming on Wednesdays."
[09:59] <Anastasia> There is a general 'Good morning, teacher,", although Viluy is still giving you a once over.
[09:59] <Princess_Herb> "Is there something wrong, Viluy?" Herb asks.
[10:01] <Anastasia> The class turns, surprised that the new teacher already knows someone in class. She gawks a moment before stammering, "N... Nothing at all!" She then glares at the other students, who generally smile and turn away, the rumor mill already grinding.
[10:06] <Princess_Herb> "Well, let's begin. I need to take your names for the register, and so that I can learn who you are, and then I need to find out what level of swimmers you all are." Herb smiles, more confidently than she feels.
[10:07] <Anastasia> This goes on, each giving a name and level. Most classify as 'beginniners', except for one sandy haired girl who ranks herself as competent. Viluy approaches you near the end of the line...
[10:12] <Princess_Herb> "Yes, Viluy?"
[10:15] <Anastasia> She sighs. "Beginner," she says, then sending a second glare into the mass of students. Thus, the class begins...
[10:15] <Anastasia> It goes without incident, the one competent girl ending up helping students as well the entire period learn basic floating and stroke practice.
[10:16] * Princess_Herb exercises supreme willpower and refrains from checking out the pretty girls in swimsuits.
[10:17] <Princess_Herb> Actually, once Herb gets into the swing of teaching the class, this becomes much easier.
[10:17] <Anastasia> The class draws to its near finish, and as everyone climbs the ladder out of the pool, Viluy happens to be right in front of you...
[10:20] <Anastasia> She climbs the ladder up, but misjudges the slippery metal step! She slips, falling backwards and spinning, right at you!
[10:21] <Anastasia> Without any time to react, she plunges right onto Herb face first, instinctively grabbing onto you in a makeshift glomp!
[10:22] <Princess_Herb> "Careful, Viluy," Herb says, "Your boyfriend will get jealous."
[10:24] * Princess_Herb helps the mortified girl out of the pool.
[10:25] <Anastasia> "GAH!" Viluy almost zooms off you, dashing up the ladder in record speed as the rest of the now out of the pool class looks on. Poor girl, you can almost hear the rumors today is going to touch off.
[10:27] <Anastasia> Soon enough, this class filters out, the next class moving in swiftly.
[10:28] <Anastasia> This class has no one of a Witchy or Sailor background, and goes without incident. You have several more competent swimmers, so you have minimal work to do.
[10:29] <Princess_Herb> "Lucky, lucky Herb..."
[10:30] <Anastasia> Finishing for the day, your nose is clogged with the smell of chlorine and pool water. That one teacher is out at the track area, so it's pleasantly quiet in the office. A hot shower and change of clothes later, you're done for the day with your job.
[10:31] * Princess_Herb heads over to the Witches' room to see if Viluy is there before travelling back to Toudai for the afternoon
[10:31] <Anastasia> Viluy isn't there right now, as classes are still in session. Thus, Toudai awaits...
[10:33] * Princess_Herb heads off.
[10:36] <Princess_Herb> "I'll try and catch her some other time."
[10:37] <Anastasia> ---

[Halbarad]

[20:02] <Usagi-chan> -----
[20:04] <Usagi-chan> Wednesday afternoon finds Usagi heading home from Mugen alone, her homework having taken an amazingly short time to complete today for a change. With Rei still cramming for a chemistry test the next week, the odangoed girl heads to the Crown Arcade to while away the rest of her afternoon.
[20:11] * Usagi-chan waves to Motoki, deciding to forego the sundae for today - she wants to save some of her money for later that week. Noticing a brown-haired head standing tall at one of the arcade machines - a fighting game - she grins, stepping up beside Makoto and dropping a couple of tokens into the machine wordlessly.
[20:14] * Makoto turns around for a second, noticing Usagi and grins. "Ah, a challenger, eh?"
[20:14] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I thought I'd give it a try. I'm not that good at fighting games though."
[20:18] <Makoto> "Let's find out if that's true then," Makoto replies as she waits for Usagi to pick a character. She'd spent a fair bit of change in the machine before Usagi came along, and felt somewhat comfortable with it now.
[20:19] * Usagi-chan looks over the character roster for a few seconds, finally settling on a girl in a white and blue school uniform similar to her old Juuban uniform. "She looks cool..." Usagi smiles.
[20:25] <Makoto> "She's fairly fast and her controls are fairly easy, so you can figure them out on your own," Makoto adds to Usagi's comment on her characters while shifting the analog stick towards a blond haired man with glasses.
[20:25] <Usagi-chan> "Right... here I come!" Usagi grins as the match begins.
[20:25] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[20:25] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[20:26] <Makoto> roll 2d6
[20:26] * Hatbot --> "Makoto rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[20:31] <Makoto> With Makoto holding back on special moves, Usagi has a bit of time to learn a move or two during the first match, and it ends in a close win for Makoto. The second round however, Makoto pulls all stops as she starts with a slicing motion attack, followed by a short 5 hit combo, another special attack, and finishing the match with a throw, one hit from Usagi sneaking in being all that kept her from a flawless victory.
[20:32] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Big surprise there." She bats the control stick lightly, resting her elbows on the game as she watches Makoto continue against the CPU.
[20:33] * Makoto shrugs. "You're better at Arty's games."
[20:34] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, I know. Just thought I'd give this one a try since you were playing it." Usagi smiles at the brunette. "Besides, it gives me a chance to talk to you - I don't see you nearly as often anymore since I transferred, just at meetings usually."
[20:35] * Makoto gives a small sad smile. She did miss the blonde vacuum, even if she had a different vacuum to feed these days. "Yeah, that's true. School's not the same without you and Ami."
[20:37] * Usagi-chan nods, frowning a little. "And I miss getting to talk to you at lunch, too. Mugen's cafeteria food is pretty good, but nothing beats your bentos, Mako-chan." She gives the taller girl a quick grin.
[20:46] * Makoto snorts. "Is that all you think of me? A bento vending machine?" Makoto states with mock hurt, and an exaggerated motion.
[20:47] <Usagi-chan> "No..." Usagi giggles. "You make good cookies too!" She gives Makoto a playful wink.
[20:48] * Makoto snorts again, before ruffling Usagi's hair. "Why you..."
[20:48] * Usagi-chan giggles once again, ducking away from the taller girl. "Well, it's true!"
[20:51] <Makoto> "So how are classes in Mugen going?" Makoto asks, changing subjects towards Usagi. "Or still catching up?"
[20:52] <Usagi-chan> "Still in tutoring," Usagi grumbles. "The Professor said I'll probably need a couple of weeks in private tutoring to get caught up with the classes I SHOULD be in. At least it's just science and history." The blonde makes a face.
[20:54] <Makoto> "Heh. Has Shingo gotten over the shock of you in Mugen yet?"
[20:55] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I think so... he's at least stopped doing double-takes every time I come home in my uniform. I still think he wonders exactly what I could have done to get in, though - and on a scholarship, no less." Usagi grins.
[20:57] <Makoto> "Well, he got over his 'stupid' sister being his hero, he has to get over you getting into Mugen. It's not -that- much less believable than you being a hero," Makoto jokes.
[20:58] <Usagi-chan> "Took him long enough with that, that's for sure." Usagi mutters. "Sometimes I STILL don't wonder if he thinks I'm making it up somehow - not that it's easy to hide it anymore." Usagi taps her hair braid with a small frown.
[21:09] <Makoto> "True. I'm still surprised that doesn't look bad on you either. Only you could pull that off," Makoto compliments with a smile.
[21:11] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Well, I'm glad you think so. I'm just not looking forward to wearing it come this summer - it already makes me hot sometimes, and I bet it's only going to get worse." She sighs, then gets a thoughtful look. "Which reminds me... I'd better ask the Professor about PE when my classes actually get started."
[21:16] <Makoto> "Wish I had such a friendly camaraderie with the faculty," Makoto states with a sigh. "The only thing I'm thankful is that Suzuki hasn't been able to get on my case lately."
[21:17] * Makoto suddenly hmms as she gets a thought. 'I must thank Alan for not attacking during school hours one of these days, even if he would have been in trouble too for it.'
[21:17] <Usagi-chan> "Thank god for that, right?" Usagi smiles wryly. "Hopefully you won't have to deal with her anymore." She giggles as she picks up on the stray thought. 'Got anything special in mind for thanking him?'
[21:22] <Makoto> Makoto gives no signs of reacting to Usagi's innuendo, instead swerving far away from that topic, somehow managing not to blush. "We can only hope so, it's not like Germatou has classes."
[21:23] <Makoto> Realizing the serious topic she's moved towards, all thoughts of blushing evaporate.
[21:23] * Usagi-chan sobers up in a hurry at that. "Yeah, I guess not." She sighs. "I wish we had something more to go on for that... I don't even know where to start looking."
[21:26] * Makoto nods. "Would be nice. He's not the sort of being I like knowing is out there loose. He's too cruel," Makoto says, thinking of the monster made of heart crystals.
[21:29] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "And he still has Hotaru, too. I feel terrible that she's been caught in the middle of all this - from what the Professor's told me, she really didn't have anything to do with it until the Mistress possessed her."
[21:33] <Makoto> "Have you guys thought of some ways we can take his new monsters down?" Makoto asks, worriedly. "I don't even want to think what we'd do if he attacks when you and Rei aren't around."
[21:35] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I've thought about it, but I can't see what you guys could do short of completely immobilizing it until we manage to get there. None of your attacks can actually purify things - Minako was the only other one who could, not that it does us much good now."
[21:39] * Makoto sighs. "Fun. Not like purifying abilities are easy to learn either."
[21:41] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, I know." Usagi frowns. "All I can really think to do is for you guys to just hold it up until I can get there. And I'm going to have to make sure I can make it in case of an attack, no matter what."
[21:43] <Makoto> "We'd better hope you just never get sick."
[21:45] * Usagi-chan gives the other girl a crooked grin. "Me too... since I'll have to come even if I AM sick. I can't just let these things rampage all over the city because I'm not feeling well."
[22:07] <Makoto> ---
-------
Scene not continued, at least that I can find. Ah well.
-------
[09:26] <Anastasia> Thursday afternoon - After a meeting where all concerned (including the Mau) discussed the new threat and the events of the past week, Usagi, Rei, Artemis and Luna head home, Ami staying behind a bit late to work on a project. 'Course, walking home passed them by the Crown, and Usagi is rather hungry for chocolate...
[09:27] <Usagi-chan> "I promise I won't take that long - I just want to get a sundae." Usagi says.
[09:27] * Rei-chan shrugs indulgently. "I don't mind, I could use a snack myself."
[09:27] <Anastasia> "Ice cream," Artemis asks, interested himself. "Could you get me a bit, too?"
[09:28] <Usagi-chan> "Sure!" Usagi grins, happy to hear no objections. She steps into the arcade, giving Motoki a wave as she comes in. "Hey, 'niisan!"
[09:29] * Rei-chan follows the blonde. "Hi, Motoki-san," she waves herself.
[09:30] <Anastasia> Strangely, Motoki isn't there, but a fresh from high school teenager, still a tad pimply. "Motoki isn't here today, he called in sick," he says for what sounds like the 342nd time. "Can I help you?"
[09:31] <Usagi-chan> "Oh. Well, I'll have my usual - a triple hot fudge sundae with extra whipped cream and nuts." Usagi nods. "Motoki doesn't have anything serious, does he?"
[09:31] <Rei-chan> "I'll have a neopolitan," Rei adds, also curious as to what's keeping Motoki off work.
[09:33] <Anastasia> "He has the flu," the shrugs uncaringly, boredom filling every fiber of his words. "That it for you two?"
[09:33] <Usagi-chan> "Oh yeah! A small dish of vanilla with some caramel syrup, too!" Usagi replies.
[09:36] <Anastasia> "Right," he mutters, going to get your stuff. "At the bar or at a booth?"
[09:36] <Rei-chan> "We'll take a booth," Rei says.
[09:37] <Anastasia> He nods once, then gets to work. Heading over, the cats take one side, leaving the other side for Rei and Usagi.
[09:38] * Usagi-chan takes her seat, almost - but not quite - in Rei's lap.
[09:38] <Anastasia> "Y'know, Luna," Artemis starts quietly as you get positioned, "I think I'll have to eat your ice cream, too. I have to start intervening somewhere, dear Luna," he smirks, sending his catty gaze at her stomach.
[09:38] <Rei-chan> "Oh, Usagi," Rei says as she sits down, smiling at the blonde's proximity, "Remember that thing you wanted to ask Artemis about?"
[09:39] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Better be careful, Artemis - she's cranky about her weight." At Rei's comment, she perks up. "Oh yeah - how's the marketing going, Artemis?"
[09:39] <Anastasia> Luna twitches visibly, glaring at the white furred one. "Do shut up," she says measuredly. "And I am NOT fat!"
[09:40] <Anastasia> Missing Rei's comment in his own games, he instead grins. "Touchy, dear Luna? I think with all the exercise the girls have been getting lately, they weigh less than you. That's all, really."
[09:41] * Usagi-chan winces, still giggling. 'If he keeps that up she's going to get some exercise trying to chase him out of here.'
[09:41] <Rei-chan> 'She's going to kill him...' Rei shakes her head, a little bit impressed in spite of herself at the white cat's taunting.
[09:42] <Usagi-chan> 'Only if she can catch him.' Usagi smirks.
[09:42] <Anastasia> "ArteMIS!" she hisses in a fit, "I do not weigh as much Usagi! That's not possible!" she waves a quite sharp claw in the air to reinforce her point.
[09:43] <Rei-chan> "Pipe down, you two," Rei remonstrates the duo, "We don't want the world to know about our amazing talking - and arguing - cats."
[09:43] * Usagi-chan snorts. "Like I weigh that much anyway. I have a perfectly fine figure."
[09:44] <Rei-chan> "I don't have any complaints," Rei smirks, putting an arm around Usagi's waist.
[09:44] <Anastasia> Artemis snickers. "That's right, Luna. Pay attention to Usagi, she's the one in shape in the Tsukino house now," he nods, his face about to split with his grin. "I would have never thought, either."
[09:46] <Usagi-chan> "Like I was ever OUT of shape - Sailor Marshmallow comments or not. It's more like Marshmallow Mau these days." Usagi grins.
[09:47] <Anastasia> Luna twiches again. Before she can respond, the current server comes back, ice cream incoming.
[09:48] <Rei-chan> "Thank you," Rei smiles, accepting the desserts.
[09:48] * Usagi-chan gives the server a bright smile. "Thanks! I needed my chocolate fix for the day..." She eyes her giant sundae hungrily.
[09:49] <Anastasia> He leaves without a word, leaving you to your food.
[09:50] * Rei-chan delicately picks at her ice cream.
[09:52] * Usagi-chan does quite the reverse, attacking her sundae like it's going to evaporate if she doesn't eat it all THIS SECOND.
[09:54] <Rei-chan> "Hey, Usagi," Rei smiles flirtatiously at the blonde, "I'll trade you some of mine for some of yours?"
[09:55] <Anastasia> Luna has settled into a mope, while Artemis is leaning back and snickers slightly at that. "So, are you two girls happy together," he asks, getting to the point.
[09:55] * Usagi-chan smiles at the miko. "Sure!"
[09:55] <Rei-chan> "Definitely," Rei replies distractedly to the cat, holding up a spoonful of ice cream for Usagi.
[09:57] * Usagi-chan digs out a large spoonful of her own sundae, offering it to her love as she takes the ice cream meant for her.
[09:59] <Rei-chan> Wrapping her lips around the spoon, Rei licks off all the chocolatey goodness, slowly pulling away. "Mmm, that is nice," she smiles, licking her lips.
[10:01] <Anastasia> Resisting the urge to roll his eyes at the display, he goes on. "I think both Luna and I have one question, though," he goes on, trying to at least be somewhat serious.
[10:01] * Usagi-chan licks her lips, cleaning the ice cream from her lips. "Mmm... yours too. I've been having chocolate sundaes for so long that I forgot what other flavors are like." She giggles.
[10:01] <Rei-chan> "Yes?" Rei turns to regard the felines with equal seriousness. 'I hope this isn't going to be about Minako...'
[10:02] * Usagi-chan sobers up quickly at that thought, turning to face the two cats.
[10:03] <Anastasia> "Are you two really serious about this? After what happened with Minako," he sours a bit at that, but goes on despite a grunt, "I don't want to see either of you hurt. Neither does Luna, even if she's too stuffed to express the sentiment herself." Artemis can't resist the last barb, Luna still ignoring him.
[10:08] <Rei-chan> "I don't want either of us to be hurt, either," Rei says seriously, giving a little squeeze with her arm still around Usagi's waist. "I don't know what the future will bring for us, but I do know that we can make each other very happy. I..." she looks momentarily uncomfortable, "I don't think this will turn out like my last last relationship did."
[10:08] * Usagi-chan slips her hand into Rei's, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I love Rei," the blonde says simply. "And while I'll admit she drives me completely crazy sometimes - both in good ways and bad ways," here she grins over at the miko. "I don't think I'm going to lose my mind because of her. And I'm not going to glue myself to her all day, every day either I love spending time with her, but I like spending time with other people too."
[10:11] <Anastasia> "Yeah..." he says finally, "I don't think it will, either," he sighs, as if that pained him to admit. "I'm just glad you two found each other..." he trails off, but Luna comes out of her sulk to speak. "Yes," she nods. "I myself wish that it wasn't two Sailors dating...if it were the Usagi and Rei from half a year ago, I'd try and prevent this. But now?" Luna smiles, "You've grown up a lot, and even if I disagree, you're mature enough."
[10:12] <Rei-chan> "Thanks, guys," Rei smiles genuinely at the cats, "I'm glad we have your support."
[10:12] <Usagi-chan> "Thanks, Luna. It means a lot to hear you say that." Usagi smiles at the black Mau.
[10:19] <Anastasia> The black Mau nods. "But... Ikkuko has been talking about it lately," she frowns, going to a more serious subject. "I found out from her you dropped the," her voice changes a bit in tone, as if imitating Ikkuko, "'The damn L word'. She's... worried and unhappy about this, Usagi."
[10:21] * Rei-chan looks rather depressed to hear that, her head slumping.
[10:21] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I didn't say the word, but it's not like it's not true." She stares at her sundae, looking rather upset. "I... I didn't want to lie to her, but I didn't want her to be mad at me either."
[10:22] <Rei-chan> "I don't want your mother to hate me, Usagi," Rei says in a small voice.
[10:23] <Anastasia> Luna sighs herself. "She's still adjusting, Usagi. I think that's part of it. But yes, she's not thrilled about your choice. I doubt she'll try and break you up, but it's hurting her right now." Luna looks away, a memory crossing her mind. "Not having grandchilden hurts her a lot, too."
[10:23] * Usagi-chan grips Rei's hand tightly. "I don't want her to hate you either, Rei-chan. But I don't know what to do, either."
[10:25] <Rei-chan> "Neither do I," Rei says sadly.
[10:26] <Anastasia> "...She doesn't hate you, Rei," Luna finally says. "She doesn't blame you for it." Luna chuckles. "Ikkuko already knew you were like that, remember right after Cynthia?" This kills her chuckle quickly, however. "She's... probably disappointed, mainly."
[10:27] <Rei-chan> "I know she didn't mind before," Rei sighs, "But I wasn't with her daughter then, was I?"
[10:27] * Usagi-chan nods. "She said that when I told her in the first place." Usagi looks rather morose. "I really should try to explain things to her better."
[10:29] <Anastasia> "Mmmm..." Luna murmurs. "Not yet, though. Not until she comes to grips with it herself, Usagi."
[10:30] * Usagi-chan opens her mouth as if to reply, then simply nods. She looks up at the Mau again a moment later. "Do you know if she's told Daddy yet?"
[10:30] <Rei-chan> "I just wish there was something I could do," Rei laments, "I really like your mother, Usagi. I don't want things to be like this..." she then looks vaguely alarmed at the implication that Kenji doesn't even know at all, yet.
[10:31] <Anastasia> "No, Usagi. She asked me if she should - she's been using me for a sounding board - and we thought we should wait until she's dealt with it herself. You don't want Rei to get chased off the next time she comes over."
[10:32] * Usagi-chan nods. "That's probably for the best." She gives Rei a sad look. "I'm sorry Mom's taking this so badly... if I just hadn't said anything..."
[10:33] <Rei-chan> "No," Rei shakes her head, "I wouldn't want to lie to her. She deserves the truth."
[10:34] <Anastasia> "She does," Luna nods, "Even if it hurt her. Usagi, she'll be fine with it in time. Just give her plenty of it."
[10:35] <Usagi-chan> "I will," the princess says quietly. "I just wish I could make this easier for her."
[10:37] * Rei-chan nods sadly, an introspective mood overcoming her as she once again wonders what her own mother would think of the choices she's made in her life.
[10:48] <Anastasia> Sighing, Artemis senses the shattered mood in here. "I'm sure it'll work out, girls," he consoles both of you.
[10:49] * Rei-chan grunts an affirmitive, her expression still distant.
[10:50] <Anastasia> "Besides, you're the girls who beat Metallia, Oxyite, Orestes, energy sucking aliens and cleaned up Mugen. What's one parent who's unhappy about her daughter liking another woman's daughter?" Artemis nods, smiling.
[10:51] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, but it's a little different when it's YOUR mother." Usagi frowns.
[10:52] * Rei-chan flinches minutely at that.
[10:52] * Usagi-chan looks over at Rei, a worried expression on her face. "Rei-chan?" she says quietly.
[10:53] <Rei-chan> "Hm?" Rei looks at Usagi, clearing away her own melancholy thoughts. "It's nothing, Usagi. I was just... thinking..."
[10:55] <Usagi-chan> "You okay? You looked kind of sad." Usagi says, rubbing the back of Rei's hand with her thumb.
[10:56] <Rei-chan> "Just..." Rei swallows, "I was just thinking about mother..." she says quietly.
[10:57] * Usagi-chan wilts at that. "...I'm sorry, I didn't even think..."
[10:57] <Rei-chan> "It's alright, Usagi," Rei squeezes Usagi's hand.
[10:59] <Anastasia> The two Mau are quiet, exchanging a look. "Why don't we go outside," Artemis suggests with a final glance at the two. "We'll see you at home, Usagi."
[11:00] * Usagi-chan nods. "Take care, guys." Usagi gives the two cats a weak smile as they hop down out of the booth, putting her arm around Rei's shoulders and pulling her into a sideways hug.
[11:01] * Rei-chan gratefully leans against Usagi. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said anything."
[11:02] * Usagi-chan shakes her head, turning to give Rei a kiss on the cheek. "No, you should have. I didn't even think about that, and here I was doing all that talking about my own mom... I didn't even think about your feelings."
[11:08] <Rei-chan> "It's alright, Usagi," Rei gives a wan smile. "What your mother thinks is important to both of us."
[11:11] <Usagi-chan> "It doesn't mean I need to walk all over your feelings, though. Luna's probably right, anyway - she'll adjust to it sooner or later." Usagi continues to stroke the back of Rei's hand with her thumb.
[11:12] <Rei-chan> "I hope so," Rei replies, snuggling a bit tighter with her love in seek of comfort.
[11:13] <Usagi-chan> -------
[11:17] <Anastasia> Walking to school on Friday. Ah, what a fine thing, going down the temple stairs in the morning... even if it's cloudy. Even if *WHOOMP*, someone just ran right into you!
[11:18] <Rei-chan> "Ow!" Rei yelps, looking at the person who she just ran into. "Watch where you're going!"
[11:19] <Anastasia> "Gah!" the man yelps, clearly caught off guard. From his prone position over three temple stairs, you can see his gray sweatsuit and pretty, short blue hair. "Sorry," he says. "Are you alright?"
[11:20] <Rei-chan> "I'm fine," Rei sighs, picking herself up and offering him a hand. "Are you visiting the Shrine?"
[11:21] <Anastasia> He takes it, springing up with agility and grace. He's in good shape, you notice, his body rippling with muscle under the sweatsuit. "Yeah. I'm looking for a old shrinekeep, Hino."
[11:21] <Rei-chan> "You know my grandfather?" Rei asks, smiling.
[11:23] <Anastasia> "Nope," he says, brushing his clothes off. "I hear he has talent in certain special areas, as does his granddaughter. I'm a martial artist in training," he grins, turning on the charm, perhaps automatically in the sight of a pretty girl, "And I'd like to see if it's anything I can learn... and oh," he goes on, "I'm Ryuu. Glad to meet you, Miss..."
[11:25] <Rei-chan> "Rei Hino," Rei bows politely. "You'll find Grandpa right up the stairs - I'm sure he'd be happy to help a dedicated martial artist." 'And you're a guy, so you don't need to worry about him hitting on you.'
[11:26] <Anastasia> He blinks. "Gah, of course. You just said you're his granddaughter," he whaps the side of his head, still smiling right at you. "So... If I'm not being too forward, Rei, are you really talented like I heard?"
[11:28] * Rei-chan smiles cockily. "I know a trick or two, yes. Where have you heard these things about me, if you don't mind me asking?"
[11:30] <Anastasia> "A friend of your Grandfather's," he nods. "They go way back... but anyway," he grins winsomely. "I heard you have fire and force-pushing abilities." He leans forward just a bit, speaking a bit softer. "I can do some things with fire ki myself, so I was interested in finding someone else who used similiar skills."
[11:32] <Rei-chan> "Of course, Hikawa Shrine is dedicated to the Kami of Fire," Rei smiles, "I'd be a pretty poor miko if I didn't have some connection to the flame." 'Pushing? Does he know about my telekinesis? What has Grandpa been telling his friends?' she wonders, it not showing on her face. "Would you like me to do a fire reading for you?"
[11:33] <Anastasia> "I'd be honored if a lovely miko would take the time out of her day to do so," he smiles, putting on a pleasant face.
[11:34] <Rei-chan> "Well, I do have to get to school right now," Rei holds up her bookbag, "But if you're still at the Shrine in the afternoon I'd be happy to help you. I'm sure Grandpa could keep you busy until then if you want to learn some of his martial arts style."
[11:35] <Anastasia> "I'll be here," he confirms. "I won't miss it for the world, Rei."
[11:36] * Rei-chan giggles cutely, not really used to being flirted with. "I'll see you later, then, Ryuu-san," she bows once more, before turning and heading off to Mugen.
[11:38] <Anastasia> "See you, Rei." he cheers out, before resuming his hike up the temple steps.
[11:40] <Anastasia> The schoolday goes without note. Being Friday, there is a spring in your step as you head back to the shrine. Ascending the stairs, you find Ryuu and Gramps sitting to the side, chatting like old friends.
[11:41] * Rei-chan waves to the pair as she heads inside to her room so she can get changed.
[11:41] <Anastasia> "I can't believe he'd try and tell you that I did THAT," Gramps hummphs, but with a smile. "He's the one who can't hold his sake!"
[11:43] <Rei-chan> Dropping off her schoolbag, Rei quickly strips out of her Mugen uniform, folding it up neatly before donning her hakama and coming back outside. "You two look like you're having fun," she smiles at her grandfather and their guest.
[11:43] <Anastasia> "Hello, Rei," Ryuu brightens the moment he sees you. "You look nice in that miko garb; it suits you really well."
[11:44] <Anastasia> Gramps nods. "We're catching up on an old, mutual friend," he explains to Rei.
[11:45] <Rei-chan> "Oh?" Rei quirks an eyebrow, ignoring the compliment. "So have you given Ryuu-san much help with his martial arts?" she asks her grandpa.
[11:46] <Anastasia> He shakes his head. "Ryuu is... rather skilled already. I think any aspect here would be on the spiritual side of things," he admits, his ego hurting just a touch.
[11:46] * Rei-chan looks at Ryuu with a fair amount of respect. "Is that so?"
[11:47] <Anastasia> Ryuu smiles, while Gramps goes on, laughing a bit ruefully. "He's good enough so that I'd rather sit down for the rest of the day."
[11:50] <Rei-chan> "Oh, my," Rei gives her grandpa a worried look, but he doesn't really seem to be injured or anything, so she doesn't dwell on it. "Well, if you seek spiritual guidance, that can be arranged also," she tells Ryuu.
[11:50] <Anastasia> Ryuu nods to Gramps, getting up. "You said something about a fire reading?" he asks, again turning on his charming smile at you.
[11:52] <Rei-chan> "Yes, that's right," Rei nods, "Since you said you were interested in fire ki especially, it seems like you could benefit from seeing how one communes with the Kami of Fire."
[11:53] <Anastasia> "Sound good, Rei," he grins easily, walking just a bit behind you, a step behind.
[11:54] * Rei-chan leads him into the main Shrine, gesturing for him to sit at the side while she kneels before the Sacred Flame, tossing a handful of incense from the tray in front of her into the fire.
[11:55] <Anastasia> He does so, studying the flame as Rei begins her duties.
[11:56] <Rei-chan> Chanting a sutra low in her throat, Rei focuses herself on the fire, seeking to learn more about Ryuu and how he might go about increasing his mastery of the martial arts.
[11:56] <Anastasia> As you focus into the flame, you are at first bothered slightly by Ryuu's aura. Bright red like the flame, it's strong and refined. His ki glows with vital energy, far removed from the sometimes dull glow of a normal Tokyo inhabitant.
[11:59] * Rei-chan tries to discern if there is anything fundamentally 'wrong' with his aura to explain why she feels bothered by it. It definitely seems like he has a strong attunement to her own element, so how is the Fire itself reacting to him?
[11:59] <Anastasia> The Fire isn't reacting out of the ordinary to him. His aura...(OOC - Soul check.)
[11:59] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[11:59] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[12:00] <Anastasia> There isn't anything 'wrong' with his aura, you think it's merely intense and attention grabbing. In a way, that's not all that unfamiliar to you - he's talented at what he does, for sure.
[12:01] <Rei-chan> Content with what she's discovered so far, Rei continues her meditations, seeking to glean more information about Ryuu's training, and how she can help this talented young martial artist in furthering it.
[12:02] <Anastasia> OOc - Soul check, again.
[12:02] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[12:02] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[12:04] <Anastasia> Fading into the Fire's embrance, Rei's trance begins. You see Ryuu and Herb, sparring on a mountaintop, exchanging blows that could shatter steel, Ryuu's body bursting into brilliant flames at times, Herb's own ki matching it... Ryuu fighting another, faceless foe, beating him easily enough... Ryuu, setting off on a plane... red behind him... silent red, and a scroll, a simple Japanese scroll.
[12:05] * Rei-chan focuses on the scroll. What is its significance?
[12:06] <Anastasia> OOC - Another check, +3.
[12:06] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+3
[12:06] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+3 and gets 9."
[12:06] <Anastasia> There seems to be something written on it... a diagram, and lettering... scale...
[12:07] * Rei-chan examines the diagram. Is it a martial arts technique?
[12:08] <Anastasia> It's blurry... you can't seem to focus on it at all.
[12:09] * Rei-chan withdraws from her trance, returning to the real world once more.
[12:09] <Anastasia> Sweat dripping from your body, the real world seems almost a feverish illusion, the hold of the Fire the real world. Ryuu peers on, intent.
[12:12] <Rei-chan> Breathing deeply, Rei finds her centre once more, turning to Ryuu. "The Fire revealed many things about you," she begins, shaking her head as sweat drips down her brow. "Whether it was the past or future I can't say, but I will share what I have learned."
[12:12] <Anastasia> He nods. "Are you alright? You look terribly flushed," he asks.
[12:15] <Rei-chan> "Don't worry about it," Rei reassures him, "Meditating so deeply has that effect. Anyway," she continues, "The first thing I saw was you, battling someone on a mountaintop..." she frowns slightly, "Someone familiar to me. A martial artist by the name of Herb."
[12:18] <Anastasia> "Herb?" he asks, a touch surprised. "Yeah, that mountaintop battle just before Christmas." he shakes his head, thinking. "I still don't know how he survived that last shot, it would have put a dent in the mountainside."
[12:20] <Rei-chan> "So you've already met him?" Rei asks, "What I saw of the battle was... fairly impressive. After that I saw you battling someone else. I couldn't see his face, but you won easily enough. Then I saw you on a plane, though I don't know where you were travelling to..." she furrows her brow, "Only that 'red' lay behind you..."
[12:34] <Anastasia> Ryuu takes that in quietly. "I see. I've been having problems finding good people to fight with lately, so I was considering a trip abroad to visit renowned masters of the art." Ryuu looks at the flame. "Red behind me, like blood? Maybe it's a omen about the trip, that I shouldn't take it?"
[12:36] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "I can't say... It didn't seem like an ill omen lay before you, and the red behind you..." she purses her lips thoughtfully, "I am unsure of its significance - many things are red, beyond just blood..."
[12:38] <Anastasia> He's quiet again, chewing it over. "Well... I've had some second thoughts about this trip idea already. Just more to think about, I suppose."
[12:39] <Rei-chan> "Perhaps there are things at home that require your attention first?" Rei suggests. "The last thing I saw was a scroll. I couldn't percieve it clearly, although it did seem important. The only clue I can offer is the character for 'scale' that was written on it, alongside other writing and a diagram that was illegible to me."
[12:40] <Anastasia> He's quiet for a third time before speaking. "My father's scrolls," he whispers. "I think I understand now, Rei." He looks up at you, smiling again. "Thank you very much for your help."
[12:42] * Rei-chan smiles back, pleased to have been able to help. "I'm glad you found this useful. Few people ask for these readings nowadays."
[12:43] <Anastasia> "That's a shame," he says, shaking his head. "You're obviously gifted with these - having such a skilled reader should attract more people, don't you think?"
[12:45] <Rei-chan> "Not many people give much consideration beyond paying lip service to our spiritual traditions," Rei shrugs, before rising. "Now if you'll excuse me, I need to get myself cleaned up."
[12:45] <Anastasia> He rises as well. "Could you wait a moment, Rei?" he asks, smiling again.
[12:45] <Rei-chan> "Yes?" she looks at him curiously.
[12:47] <Anastasia> "Well, I feel I've imposed on both you and your Grandfather today," he begins, "so I'd like to make an effort to express my gratitude. Rei, I'd like to take you and your Grandfather out to dinner, and I'd be most honored if you accepted."
[12:48] <Rei-chan> "That's kind of you to offer," Rei smiles. "If Grandpa says it's okay, I don't mind coming along."
[12:49] <Anastasia> Ryuu breaks out into a grin. "That's great," he enthuses. "We already were tossing around the idea, so I know he'll say it's fine."
[12:51] <Rei-chan> "Okay," Rei nods, "Now if you'll excuse me, I really do need to get washed up." With that, the miko exits the Shrine, heading for the bathroom.
[12:51] <Anastasia> He nods, letting you go and going back outside himself.
[12:52] <Anastasia> ---
[12:53] <Anastasia> A short while later, you find yourselves at the Chinese Gardens restaurant, greenery here and there trying to live up to its name. It's a nice enough, sit-down place, but not 4 stars by any means.
[12:55] * Rei-chan sits with her companions, dressed in a smart skirt and blouse combo.
[12:56] <Anastasia> Gramps starts by ordering himself some sake, a sign for the night. Ryuu passes on that, at least. By way of starting conversation, Ryuu asks, "So, Rei. What school do you go to?"
[12:57] <Rei-chan> "Mugen Gakuen," Rei answers, having ordered a cup of green tea for herself. "It's a good school, I really like it there."
[12:59] <Anastasia> Ryuu smiles. "Your family must be proud of you, that's a good school."
[13:01] <Rei-chan> "Yes," Rei smiles at her grandpa. "It was tough to get into," she adds, refraining from mentioning anything about why she had to get into Mugen and the events surrounding her abrupt departure from T*A.
[13:01] <Anastasia> "I'm quite pleased with Rei," he nods in confirmation, smiling back to her as he starts on a saucer of sake.
[13:02] * Rei-chan sips some of her tea. "So what about yourself, Ryuu? Can you tell us a bit about your training?"
[13:04] <Anastasia> "I've been studying the art ever since I was young. My father," he smiles a bit wistfully at this, "was a master martial artist of the highest order. He did amazing things; I got my name because he slew a dragon with his bare fists before I was born."
[13:05] <Rei-chan> "A dragon?" Rei leans in interestedly, "And you already know Herb, right? About his... heritage?"
[13:06] <Anastasia> He nods. "That's why I fought him the first time at the dojo," he nods. "He even still has my Dragonslayer..." That gets a frown, but he moves on. "Anyway, I've been learning all my life about how to use my ki."
[13:07] <Rei-chan> "Oh! You're the one who gave Herb that sword?" Rei blinks. "Now that you mention it, I can recall him mentioning he won it after defeating a master of a dragon slaying martial arts style..."
[13:11] <Anastasia> "Not quite gave it to him, he won it from me," Ryuu sighs. "I'd like to win it back some day, but I haven't been able to get to that level yet."
[13:14] <Rei-chan> "Herb is pretty good," Rei admits. "Not just in terms of plain strength and skill, but his ki attacks are really powerful." 'I'm pretty sure I could beat him, though...'
[13:17] <Anastasia> "Yeah. He's talented - I don't see why he bothers going to college with the level of skill he possessess." Ryuu smiles again, brushing that aside. "Anyway, are you into the martial arts at all?"
[13:19] <Rei-chan> "I wouldn't call myself a dedicated martial artist like yourself... I don't even formally practice as much as Grandpa does," Rei demurs, "but I do have a measure of skill, yes." 'And I get way more INformal practice than pretty much anyone else I know...'
[13:21] <Anastasia> "Are you interested in improving?" he asks. "If you're skilled, I wouldn't mind helping you improve a bit further."
[13:24] <Rei-chan> "I wouldn't mind that," Rei replies, "Who knows, maybe I might just help you a bit in your quest to defeat Herb, too," she smirks at him.
[13:25] <Anastasia> He smirks back. "Maybe you will," he agrees. "Practice makes perfect, after all. Also... if you are skilled, I could probably teach you a few basic ki skills."
[13:25] <Anastasia> Gramps, who has been quiet so far, watches this conversation with more interest than usual, his slightly playful and befuddled expression slipping into a more serious, though not unfriendly, expression..
[13:26] <Rei-chan> "What kind of ki skills?" Rei asks curiously.
[13:28] <Anastasia> "Bodily enhancement, ki attacks, that sort of thing," he explains. "If you know how, jumping twenty or thirty feet into the air isn't that hard at all. With what I saw, I could probably teach you that with a bit of work," he smiles to you.
[13:29] * Rei-chan barely resists the urge to snicker aloud. "Maybe a lot less work than you think..." she says quietly.
[13:31] <Anastasia> He perks up at that. "Really? Don't tell me you're underselling your skills to me," he jests playfully.
[13:33] <Rei-chan> "Like I told you this morning, I know a few tricks of my own," the miko replies, sipping her tea.
[13:39] <Anastasia> He smiles back. "Heh. We can trade tricks if you want," he offers again.
[13:43] <Rei-chan> "I'm not really sure that I could teach you some of the things I can do..." Rei says guardedly. "Although I wouldn't mind sparring sometime - you might pick something up that way, or hone your existing skills?" she offers consolingly.
[13:44] <Anastasia> He nods, any further comment cut off by the arrival of dinner. The food is very good - not great, but good - and the servings are large enough to fill you up.
[13:45] <Anastasia> After dinner, Gramps excuses himself a bit woozily to the bathroom, perhaps one more cup of sake than he meant wreaking havoc on him.
[13:45] * Rei-chan contentedly eats her dinner.
[13:45] <Anastasia> Finishing his plate and seeing that Rei is getting there as Gramps leaves, he strikes up the chat again. "So... if you have time this weekend, I could drop by for a spar or two."
[13:47] <Rei-chan> "Tomorrow afternoon works," Rei nods. 'Unless I have to fight off a monster or something on the way home from school...'
[13:47] <Anastasia> Ryuu nods eagerly, just a bit. "Say, 2 PM?"
[13:50] <Rei-chan> "Yes, that gives me time to deal with anything that might come up at school," Rei agrees. 'And it's early enough that it shouldn't affect my plans with Usagi unless I get really beaten up...' she almost snorts at the thought. 'As if that could happen.'
[13:53] <Anastasia> He grins back at you. "I'll look forward to that, too."
[13:55] <Rei-chan> "Okay." 'Should be nice to get in a fight with a person with no real grudge against me, nor risk of innocents being killed if I screw up...' Rei smiles at the thought.
[13:57] <Anastasia> Shortly after, the three part, Gramps quiet on the way back home - unusually so.
[13:58] <Rei-chan> "Something wrong, Grandpa?" Rei gives the short man a concerned look.
[13:58] <Anastasia> He looks up. "Oh, nothing, Rei-chan," he smiles.
[13:59] <Rei-chan> "You sure?" Rei prods, "You look awfully distracted."
[14:00] <Anastasia> A momentary mental battle. "I was thinking about Ryuu. He's a dashing young man, isn't he?"
[14:02] <Rei-chan> "I guess," Rei shrugs, not really concerned. "He's pre..." she trails off, staring at her Grandpa. "Hey! You'd better not be thinking of fixing me up with him!"
[14:04] <Anastasia> "Not if you're spoken for already," he says blandly. "If you weren't..." A glimmer shines in his eye.
[14:06] * Rei-chan shakes her head, sighing. "I guess if I was single I could see the appeal. But I'm not - I'm exclusively devoted to Usagi, and no one else." She states it firmly, leaving no room for argument.
[14:09] <Anastasia> "Do let him down tomorrow, at least. He's a friend of a friend, and I'd rather not see that get ugly," he nods, letting the matter drop.
[14:12] * Rei-chan sighs. "I guess you're right, Grandpa... I wasn't really paying attention, or maybe I was just trying not to, but it does look like he's interested in getting to know me a lot better... I'll talk to him tomorrow." 'Besides, he's a guy. He's bound to take rejection a lot better than Minako or Kotono did...'
[14:13] <Anastasia> ---
[10:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> Usagi and Rei meet in the Witches office, almost everyone save Eudial around today. It's a nice Saturday, and everyone is ready for the rest and fun of Sunday.
[10:47] <Rei-chan> "Hey, has anyone seen Herb today?" Rei asks the assembled girls.
[10:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Herb?" Ami looks up, "I think I saw him in the hallway today."
[10:52] * Usagi-chan glances up from a discussion with Tellu about what to do next with the gardens on the Moon. "Did you need him for something, Rei-chan?"
[10:52] <Rei-chan> "Ah, not really, I guess," Rei shakes her head, "I just met a friend of his yesterday."
[10:53] <Usagi-chan> "Really?" Usagi looks curious. "Who was it?"
[10:53] * Princess_Herb enters the room, dressed as sexy new swimming coach Herb in a nice new tracksuit and training shoes.
[10:54] <Rei-chan> "Oh, there he... she... is, now," Rei frowns slightly as she stumbles over her pronouns. "Hey, Herb, I met Ryuu-san yesterday," she greets the crossdresser.
[10:54] <Princess_Herb> "Hi gang!" says Herb, looking around for Viluy.
[10:54] <Princess_Herb> "You did? How did that happen?" Herb asks, not expecting that Ryuu and the hotheaded lesbian miko ran in the same circles.
[10:55] * Usagi-chan frowns slightly at the name. "Ryuu..." A look of concentration comes across her face as she tries to think where she's heard the name.
[10:55] <Rei-chan> "He visited the Shrine, looking to improve his martial arts," Rei smirks, "He wants his sword back from you."
[10:56] <Usagi-chan> A look of recognition finally crosses Usagi's face, and it goes blank. "Oh. Ryuu." She scowls a little.
[10:56] <Princess_Herb> "I did try to give him it back, but he won't take it unless he feels he's beaten me fair and square."
[10:58] * Rei-chan notes the scowl and looks at Usagi curiously for a second, before returning to Herb. "Yeah, I offered to spar with him today to help him improve his skills." She frowns a bit as she thinks of the talk she'll have to have before that, though...
[10:58] <Princess_Herb> "What did you think of him, Rei-chan?" Herb asks, wondering how Ryuu gets along with real women.
[10:59] <Rei-chan> "He's a nice guy," Rei looks a tad uncomfortable, "I think he wants to get to know me a lot better, but I never really noticed until after I agreed to meet him today..."
[11:00] * Usagi-chan raises an eyebrow. "Oh really..."
[11:00] <Rei-chan> 'I didn't notice, I was just being friendly!' Rei hastens to reassure her girlfriend. 'But I'm going to set things straight today so he doesn't get the wrong idea.'
[11:00] <Princess_Herb> "I always give him a break, and never use my ki attacks against him. That way he won't associate me and Sailor Dragon so easily, and it gives him a chance of winning back his sword...." Herb says, then thinking of the consequences of what the miko just said, "Eh, you are his type, I suppose. A traditional Japanese shrine maiden."
[11:01] <Princess_Herb> "Let him down easily, if you can, Rei-chan." says Herb. "He's a pal, and I don't want him to get too upset."
[11:02] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, he's a friend of one of grandpa's friends, too," Rei replies, "I'm not going to be cruel about it or anything."
[11:02] * Usagi-chan smirks. 'Mind if I come along, Rei-chan? I want to meet this guy... I've heard a few things about him.'
[11:02] <Rei-chan> 'You have? Well, I don't mind, I guess,' Rei replies mentally.
[11:03] <Usagi-chan> 'I'll fill you in on the way to the Shrine,' the blonde replies enigmatically. 'You're going to LOVE this.'
[11:04] <Rei-chan> 'That sounds ominous...' Rei thinks to herself.
[11:04] * Usagi-chan giggles.
[11:06] * Rei-chan looks at the clock. "Anyway, guess I should head home, now," she grabs her schoolbag, "Coming, Usagi?"
[11:06] * Princess_Herb smiles, since she hopes Ryuu gets an earful about his lack of respect for the senshi from the Queen.
[11:06] * Princess_Herb looks around for Viluy and spots her reading something at one of the desks.
[11:06] <Usagi-chan> "I wouldn't miss this for the world." Usagi grins, grabbing her own bag as she follows the miko out of the office.
[11:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> Viluy does her best to ignore you, her HIstory book hiding her face and all but the sides of her ample chest.
[11:07] * Princess_Herb walks over. "Viluy-san... I wanted to apologise if I embarassed you in front of the other girls on Wednesday." she says.
[11:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Fine," she says quickly. "Could we talk about this... later?" she says under her breath, just loud enough for you to hear.
[11:09] <Princess_Herb> "Sure. When would be good?"
[11:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> She sighs, seeing that a few Witches are starting to pay attention. "How about we just go now," she says, getting up and taking Herb rather forcefully by the hand and dragging him outside.
[11:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> Once outside the heavy door to the office, Viluy stares at you. "Damn! Subtlety, Herb," she hisses, annoyed.
[11:14] * Princess_Herb slumps. "I'm sorry," says Herb. "I guess I'm not used to apologising. I really didn't mean to make you blush so much, though."
[11:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Fine," she says quickly. "Just DON'T air this in front of the others!"
[11:20] <Princess_Herb> "All right, I shan't mention it again. Am I forgiven for being an idiot this time?" Herb asks
[11:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> Turning so that her side profile is seen and her chest moves ever so deliciously, "Yeah."
[11:29] <Princess_Herb> "Thank you." Herb says, meaning it. 'Damn,' she thinks, 'if I was in my guy form right now, I'd be even more embarassed.' The Musk Princess internally sings the praises of cold showers.
[11:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> Turning her back to you, she heads back inside.
[11:30] * Princess_Herb follows the callipygean witch back inside.
[11:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> After a small, odd scene, Viluy and Herb head back inside to the rest of the Witches.
[11:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> As that does, the phone rings, Tellu getting it and talking into it away from the rest of the group.
[11:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> She speaks into it quietly for a few moments before hanging up. "The Professor is coming down shortly with some news," she comments.
[11:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---

[Halbarad]

[11:43] * Usagi-chan maintains a mischievous grin as the two girls make their exit from Mugen. "I definitely want to see what this guy is like..." she says half to herself as the pair steps out into the sunny spring afternoon.
[11:44] <Rei-chan> "So are you going to tell me about the things you've already heard about him, then?" Rei asks, walking hand in hand with the blonde.
[11:45] <Usagi-chan> "Oh, nothing major," Usagi replies airily. "He just happens to think the senshi look slutty and that we couldn't possibly know how to fight."
[11:47] <Rei-chan> "Wh-wh-WHAT?!" Rei nearly yells, coming to an abrupt halt.
[11:49] * Usagi-chan steps around in front of Rei, still grinning. "You heard me. He apparently mentioned it to Herb a few months back, and Herb didn't know what to say so he asked me for advice." She sighs a bit. "I told him there's not really a lot we COULD do short of fighting in front of him, and I'm not going to transform just for that - and the odds of him being at any particular attack and conscious aren't so hot."
[11:50] <Rei-chan> "I can't believe he'd say that!" Rei clenches a fist angrily, "He was really respectful to me yesterday, too."
[11:52] * Usagi-chan shrugs. "It's not like he would have known you WERE a senshi, and I doubt that's going to change." She looks thoughtful for a minute. "I guess it's possible that Herb might have exaggerated some - maybe you should ask him yourself."
[11:53] <Rei-chan> "I guess," Rei deflates a bit as she resumes walking, "It just makes me angry that ANYONE could think of us like that, especially after everything we've done..."
[11:57] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, tell me about it." Usagi frowns. "After fighting people like Oxyite and Orestes, that someone could believe that we don't know what we're doing... it DOES make me mad. But the only way I could think to change his mind would be to transform and fight him that way - and I don't think that's a very good idea."
[11:57] <Rei-chan> "No," Rei shakes her head, "Still, now I have less reason to go easy on him when we spar..."
[11:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> The two continue to walk, the conversation meandering along. As you arrive at the temple, you are greeted by the sight of Yuuichiro getting thrown a goodly way across the yard by Ryuu. Are they sparring?
[11:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> In fact, he lands rather close to you. "Ooooooh... oooow........ oooohhh... Mommy...." he moans, quite a wreck after another meeting with the ground.
[12:00] <Rei-chan> "He's early..." Rei notes, before crouching down next to the shaggy haired youth, "Are you okay, Yuuichiro?" she asks with some concern.
[12:00] <Usagi-chan> "Yuuichiro! Are you okay?" Usagi bends down to check on the downed priest-in-training.
[12:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu waves as you kneel. "Oh... Rei... why are there five of you, Rei..." Yuuichiro grins stupidly.
[12:01] * Rei-chan looks up at Ryuu, then back at Yuuichiro. "Yuuichiro, why were you sparring with Ryuu? If Grandpa couldn't beat him..." she trails off, shaking her head.
[12:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "But... Gramps said it would improve my... oh..." he moans again. "Rei, make the temple stop pounding..."
[12:02] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Poor guy..."
[12:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu jogs over. "Hey, Rei," he smiles at you brightly, then kneels by Yuuichiro. "You okay, man?"
[12:03] * Rei-chan sighs, hefting Yuuichiro up to lean on her shoulder, "Come on, let's get you into bed," she says in a long-suffering tone.
[12:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> "THanks... Rei... you're soft..." he mutters absently.
[12:03] <Rei-chan> "I must be to help you," Rei mutters, taking Yuuichiro inside to his room.
[12:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> As Rei and Yuuichiro depart, Ryuu nods to Usagi. "Heya. Are you a friend of Rei's?"
[12:05] * Usagi-chan grins at the blue-haired man. "Yup. You must be Ryuu, right?"
[12:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "Glad to meet you," he grins easily. "You are...?"
[12:07] * Usagi-chan ducks a quick bow. "Usagi Tsukino, nice to meet you too. I've heard about you from Herb."
[12:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You know Herb too? Small world," he smiles. "So... Usagi." he leans forward ever so slightly and lowers his voice. "Could I ask you a favor?"
[12:09] * Usagi-chan raises an eyebrow. "Depends on the favor."
[12:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> He smiles, not slowed a bit. "What sort of flowers does Rei like?" he asks, keeping his voice low.
[12:11] <Usagi-chan> "And just why would you be asking about something like that?" Usagi grins.
[12:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> He grins right back. "Rei's a cute, lively girl. Don't you get asked this all the time by her suitors?"
[12:12] <Usagi-chan> "Not really, no. She's already dating someone." Usagi can't stop the giggle that emerges from her lips.
[12:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> His grin almost falls off his face, it's gone so quickly. "She is?" he asks quietly.
[12:14] * Usagi-chan nods, still smiling. "She got together with someone about three weeks ago."
[12:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Aw, damn," he sighs, deflating visibly. "Who's the lucky guy?" he asks a bit sullenly.
[12:15] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Not telling!"
[12:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> He scowls at you darkly. "It's not like I'm going to beat him up or anything. I just want to know who it was and what he did to get her heart... if it doesn't work out," he admits, not bothering with hiding his motives.
[12:17] * Usagi-chan keeps the same quirky smile she's had throughout the entire conversation. "Why don't you ask her about it?"
[12:17] <Rei-chan> After getting Yuuichiro settled in bed with a cold compress on his head, Rei heads to her own room to get changed into a clean white gi with a black belt, tying her hair off midway down her back with a white ribbon. Emerging from her room, she pads over towards Usagi and Ryuu, wondering what they're talking about.
[12:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> He sighs, rubbing his temple for a moment. "Because it's rude to ask a lady herself. That's why I'm asking you."
[12:18] <Rei-chan> "Ask a lady what?" Rei asks as she gets within hearing range.
[12:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu startes a bit, turning to Rei. "Ah, nothing," he says quickly to her.
[12:19] <Usagi-chan> "He wants to know who you're dating." Usagi giggles.
[12:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> His head whips around, his face shooting off an embarrassed look at Usagi.
[12:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Um, that is...." he stumbles.
[12:19] * Rei-chan blushes, shooting Usagi a dark look. "Ah, Ryuu-san... I was kind of meaning to talk to you about that. I didn't mean to give you the wrong impression or anything yesterday, but I am spoken for."
[12:20] <Usagi-chan> 'I was nice! I was just teasing him a little. He asked me what kind of flowers you liked.' Usagi replies mentally, shooting a look back at the miko.
[12:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods to Rei, seeming a touch disapointed. "I see. My apologies for my overly forward actions, then. May I wish you and your boyfriend much happiness?"
[12:21] <Rei-chan> "There's nothing to apologise for, Ryuu-san," Rei says gently. "I'm not upset or anything, but I did need to clear this up after yesterday... I didn't really realise how things could have been taken until Grandpa pointed it out..."
[12:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Still," he insists, "My apologies." Ryuu then lets himself sigh once.
[12:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It figures," he smiles just a bit. "All the cute girls are taken already."
[12:23] <Rei-chan> "If it makes you feel better, I accept them," Rei nods. "You're a very nice, and handsome, guy, Ryuu-san - I'm sure you'll have no trouble finding a nice girl before long," she then tells him consolingly.
[12:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods back. "Anyway," he goes on, wanting to move away from that mess, "we have sparring to do, don't we?"
[12:24] <Rei-chan> "Yes," Rei nods, also wanting to get away from that mess, "Do you mind if Usagi watches? She's been learning t'ai chi from Herb."
[12:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I don't mind," he nods to her, then walks over to the center of the courtyard. "How do you want to start? I won't go all out on you, mind, but how much do you think you can handle at first?" His smile is back, he's clearly in his element now.
[12:26] <Rei-chan> "Ah," Rei looks around, before gesturing to the Shrine's dojo. "Perhaps we should fight inside the dojo? If we're going to go all out, I'd rather not scare off visitors to the Shrine..."
[12:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I wasn't planning on going all out on you, of course," he admits, "But if you want to move to the dojo, that's fine." Ryuu looks over to the building. "It looks like a fine building."
[12:29] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, we've had to repair it a few times, though..." Rei admits, leading him and Usagi inside. "There's been more than a few battles between the Sailor Senshi and monsters at Hikawa Shrine," she adds, looking to guage his reaction.
[12:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hmm," he notes, going inside. "Really? Were they much to watch in battle?" he questions, curious.
[12:31] <Rei-chan> "Oh, yes," Rei smiles slightly. "Their battles tend to be very impressive... if rather destructive."
[12:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Mmmmmm." is his simple response. "Regardless of that," he views the inside of the shrine, "How much of a spar do you want this to be?"
[12:33] <Rei-chan> "We're not just sparring for my benefit," Rei tells him seriously, "You want to beat Herb, don't you? You'll only get as much out of this as you put in." Holding up a hand to stall any protest, she adds, "Remember, the Sacred Flame showed me your battle with Herb on that mountain. I know what I'm getting in for."
[12:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu is silent a moment, thinking. "If you really want to... but are you sure? If I don't hold back, I can't promise that you'll just get a bump or bruise."
[12:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> He looks at you, his eyes clear and focused. "I will if you insist, but only if you're truly okay with it."
[12:36] <Rei-chan> "I am," Rei nods, "Better bump or a bruise in training than broken bones or worse when it really matters." She gives him a cocky grin, "Don't think I'm delicate just because I'm a girl."
[12:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> He snorts. "Oh... and I've gotten a lot better since that mountain battle," he warns. With that, flame engulfs both his arms, now two limbs of fiery power! "You're really sure you want this?" Ryuu grins a bit, cocky now.
[12:38] * Usagi-chan tries to hide a smirk as the martial artist shows off, confident in her girlfriend's skills.
[12:38] <Rei-chan> "Quite sure," Rei replies, peering at his ki fire to judge just how powerful it is.
[12:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Soul check, -2
[12:39] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6-2
[12:39] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6-2 and gets 6."
[12:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's respectably powerful. Not as strong as your Snake Fire, say, but it's fearsome in it's own right.
[12:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> He shrugs, then assumes a fist-forward battle stance. "If you're sure...."
[12:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative
[12:41] * Rei-chan adopts a combat stance of her own, refraining from producing any fire just yet.
[12:41] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6+10
[12:41] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6+10 and gets 12."
[12:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[12:41] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[12:41] <Usagi-chan> "Come on, Rei-chan!" Usagi cheers from the side of the dojo.
[12:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu wastes no time, rushing forward with a flurry of burning punches!
[12:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[12:41] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[12:41] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[12:41] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[12:43] <Rei-chan> Backing away from his fusillade of blows, Rei waits until she sees an opportunity before leaping clean over the martial artist, unloading a kick to the back of his head as she passes.
[12:43] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+2
[12:43] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 7."
[12:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[12:43] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[12:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> Not really expecting such a quick counterattack, Ryuu is nailed with the kick! He staggers a bit, going with the force of the blow. "Guh... not bad..." he mutters to himself.
[12:46] * Rei-chan lands lightly on her feet, shifting to face him once more. "Thanks."
[12:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> He flips back around after that, a bit surprised. "Okay, you aren't quite that bad," he admits.
[12:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative
[12:46] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6+10
[12:46] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6+10 and gets 13."
[12:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[12:46] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[12:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Then I guess I really will go for it," he grins back as well.
[12:48] <Rei-chan> "Good," Rei nods tightly, "I don't want to get bored." As she speaks, she reaches out with her will towards his ki enflamed arms, trying to reduce the intensity of the flames to the lowest possible level without snuffing them out entirely, curious as to whether he will notice and how he will respond.
[12:48] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[12:48] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[12:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[12:48] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> The flames do flicker a moment, Ryuu blinking as he feels ki affected. Ignoring it for the moment, he instead rushes forward, jumping up a bit and bringing his fist down right in front of Rei! "Fire Spike!"
[12:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[12:49] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[12:49] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[12:49] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[12:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> A pillar of fire erupts under his fist, trying to burn Rei!
[12:53] * Rei-chan hops backwards, her hands rising upwards to catch the pillar of fire and snuffing it out before it can damage the wooden flooring of the dojo.
[12:53] * Usagi-chan grins, the flows of energy fully visible to her as she watches the fight. She gasps at the sudden pillar of flame, but relaxes as Rei manages to extinguish it without much trouble. 'That was a good move, Rei-chan.'
[12:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative once you reply to your girlfriend.
[12:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[12:53] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[12:53] <Rei-chan> 'He's very skilled,' Rei admits to Usagi.
[12:53] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6+10
[12:53] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6+10 and gets 16."
[12:54] <Rei-chan> Recovering from absorbing the last strike, Rei lashes forward with a thrust kick to Ryuu's midsection!
[12:54] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[12:54] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[12:54] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[12:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> The kick connects, Ryuu's midsection taking the blow in. Wasting no time with an expression of pain, he takes a counter sweep at you!
[12:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[12:55] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[12:56] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[12:56] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[12:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei finds her legs swept out from under her faster than she expected, landing flat on her back! (20 damage.)
[12:58] * Rei-chan lets out a grunt of pain, quickly pushing herself into a backwards roll as she springs to her feet. "Good hit," she acknowledges.
[12:58] * Usagi-chan looks a little worried, although she knows Rei is capable of taking a few hits. 'You okay, Rei-chan?'
[12:59] <Rei-chan> 'I'm fine, Usagi. You've seen me take far worse than this,' Rei tells her girlfriend.
[12:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Thanks," he says, stepping back a bit and getting ready for the next exchange.
[12:59] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6+10
[12:59] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6+10 and gets 11."
[12:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[12:59] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[12:59] <Usagi-chan> 'I know, but usually not while I'm sitting back doing nothing.' Usagi replies in a wry tone.
[13:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu leaps up, bringing his fiery arm down in a wave at Rei! "Fire...BLOW!"
[13:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:00] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[13:00] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[13:00] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[13:01] <Rei-chan> Rei sweeps her own arm across, launching a wave of fire up to meet her foe's attack.
[13:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:01] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[13:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> The two fires meet in a midair collision! Ryuu is knocked out of his path by it but is unharmed, ready to go again. "So you DO have some ability with fire," he nods, smiling.
[13:04] <Rei-chan> "Don't tell me you're surprised?" Rei chastises him.
[13:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Not with what you tried on my arms," he banters back easily. "Ready, Rei?"
[13:05] <Rei-chan> "I wondered if you noticed," Rei smiles, "And I'm quite ready," she adds, once more resuming her ready stance.
[13:05] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6+10
[13:05] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6+10 and gets 11."
[13:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[13:05] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[13:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu comes forward again, an arcing kick aimed at your side!
[13:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:06] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[13:06] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[13:06] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[13:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei is caught in the left side by it, send flying back a bit by the powerful shot, her side registering quite a measure of pain! (20 damage. You need to take the blows that fire resistance will help on, like the punches.)
[13:09] <Rei-chan> "Ah!" Rei hisses in pain as she recovers. Holding one hand over her side protectively, she raises the other and releases an arc of fire to lash against Ryuu at a distance!
[13:09] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[13:09] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[13:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:09] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[13:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> The flame gets Ryuu across his chest, causing him to hiss in pain! "Gg...... Good one..." he says between clenched teeth.
[13:10] <Rei-chan> "Likewise," Rei says, still wincing at the pain coming from her ribs.
[13:11] * Usagi-chan concentrates on the waves of flame, drawing the energy out of them before they hit anything in the dojo - Rei and Ryuu seem to be too occupied to concern themselves with it now.
[13:12] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6+10
[13:12] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6+10 and gets 16."
[13:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[13:12] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[13:13] <Rei-chan> Letting go of her abused side, Rei leaps high into the air towards Ryuu, her foot arcing out as she lands to plant a flying kick right on his head!
[13:13] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+2
[13:13] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[13:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:13] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[13:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cleanly sidestepping, Ryuu counters! "Flaming Fury!" he cries, a storm of blows launched at Rei!
[13:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:14] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[13:14] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[13:14] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[13:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> Blow after blow rains down on Rei's body, fiery hell delivered in seconds! Your body is pummeled with shot after shot! While Rei's innate resistance to fire helps, the blows still cause bruising and pain! (Damage 25)
[13:19] * Rei-chan grunts at the pummeling, backing off quickly to get some room, but not before the damage is done. "Heh, not holding back at all, now?" she asks, staggering a little.
[13:19] * Usagi-chan cringes as the flurry of punches land, biting her fingernails nervously. Rei is quite obviously hurting now, and there's nothing she can do.
[13:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Not all that much," he says back, his face still a bit pained. "How 'bout you?"
[13:20] <Rei-chan> "Not after that," Rei says, shaking her head as she holds up her right hand which swiftly becomes wreathed in white-hot flame, so bright it almost hurts to look at.
[13:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> He raises an eyebrow. "Let's go," he motions for Rei to come on!
[13:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[13:22] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[13:22] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6+10
[13:22] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6+10 and gets 14."
[13:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu comes at you again, a pointed kick at your midsection seeking your ribs!
[13:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:23] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[13:23] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6 to defend
[13:23] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 to defend and gets 10."
[13:23] <Rei-chan> do-over!
[13:23] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6 to defend
[13:23] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 to defend and gets 5."
[13:24] <Rei-chan> Bringing up her knee to deflect the kick, Rei lunges in with a furious punch at Ryuu's midsection!
[13:24] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[13:24] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[13:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:24] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[13:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu staggers back, his gut burning. His face clenches pure pain, wobbly but still up. Shaking his head once, he refocuses on Rei. "Good shot," he grunts.
[13:26] <Rei-chan> "I think we should stop," Rei says, noticing just how bad he looks, and not feeling all that great herself.
[13:26] <Usagi-chan> "I agree," Usagi says with a frown. "You guys look fairly evenly matched."
[13:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> "If you want. I'm still ready to go," he grins, but it's not fully there. He is hurting a fair bit.
[13:27] <Rei-chan> "I could still go, too," Rei replies, not wanting to be outdone, "But I'd rather we both walked out of here under our own power."
[13:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu steps down from his battle stance slowly, wincing a bit. "I guess that's not a bad argument," he nods.
[13:28] * Rei-chan nods as well, before bowing respectfully, trying not to visibly wince at how it hurts her ribs. "Thank you for the match."
[13:29] * Usagi-chan catches the flicker of pain across Rei's features. 'Are you okay, Pyro? You don't look so hot right now.'
[13:30] <Rei-chan> 'I'm not going to be running around for a few hours, but I'll live,' Rei reassures the blonde. 'He really is good.'
[13:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> He bows as well, much in the same boat as Rei. "Thanks as well, Rei."
[13:30] <Rei-chan> "I just hope you found today useful," Rei says as she straightens. "Good luck with Herb."
[13:30] * Usagi-chan stands up from her seated position at the side of the dojo, wobbling a little on her own feet. "Come on, Rei-chan - let's go get you cleaned up." She makes her way over to the miko slowly, seeming a bit off-kilter herself.
[13:31] <Rei-chan> "Right..." Rei looks askance at Usagi. "Are you okay? You're looking a pit peaky..."
[13:32] <Usagi-chan> "Just a little... light-headed." Usagi smiles at Rei. "I'll be okay."
[13:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ryuu follow behind you, a bit on the quiet side.
[13:34] * Usagi-chan escorts the wounded miko back to her bedroom at the shrine, laying her down on her bed and checking her over for any serious injuries once they arrive there.
[13:34] * Rei-chan submits to the treatment without protest.
[13:38] <Usagi-chan> "Doesn't look like you broke anything," Usagi mutters. "Remind me not to ever watch you fight like that again." She strokes the miko's cheek gently.
[13:39] <Rei-chan> "What?" Rei looks up at Usagi, "You weren't impressed with my skills?"
[13:39] <Usagi-chan> "You were very good, Rei-chan... but it felt awful to watch you get hit like that and not be able to do anything about it," Usagi says quietly.
[13:40] <Rei-chan> "Well, like I told Ryuu," Rei begins, sighing slightly as she shifts her weight, "Better to get hurt in sparring than to get REALLY hurt in a serious fight."
[13:40] <Usagi-chan> "Maybe so, but it's still getting hurt either way." Usagi looks sad as she speaks.
[13:42] * Rei-chan doesn't really have a good answer to that, so just looks rather downcast and stays quiet.
[13:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[13:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> Sunday is even brighter and warmer than Saturday, with temperatures in the upper 70s. Just the day to go out an do something...
[13:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> Be it driving, walking or even video gaming, this is a day to have fun!
[13:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei wanders the mall, having decided today would be a great day to go shopping. Running into Eudial was a nice bonus, and the day begins to pass by...
[13:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> You are knocked out of your comfortable walk down the mall by what looks to be some sort of production being set up in the center of the mall.
[13:58] <Rei-chan> "Hey, wonder what this is all about?" Rei nudges Eudial, gesturing to the activity.
[14:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Dunno," she replies, shifting her sole bag to her other hand. "Looks like they're setting up a stage." Sure enough, a simple stage is being set up, as well as some banners. One tall, pretty girl with a megaphone is directing several dozen workers, shouting out commands. She's cute, with soft yellow hair and a good figure.
[14:01] * Rei-chan walks closer, getting near one of the workers. "Excuse me," she tries to get his attention, "What's happening here?"
[14:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> He turns, putting down the bag he was hauling. "We're setting up for the NasumiSoft Paegant tryouts this afternoon," he says. "It's a tryout for a pageant that leads to the Miss Japan competition, or somethin'," he grunts at that last part, getting his heavy load again.
[14:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> "The Miss Japan pageant?" Eudial says spectuatively, then grins and nudges Rei in the side. "You should give that a shot, Rei."
[14:06] <Rei-chan> "Me?!" Rei points to herself, "No way!" she shakes her head quickly, even as she does consider that it might be kind of fun, especially with no real commitment at this early stage.
[14:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hey, you!" Before Eudial can reply, the blonde with the megaphone butts in. "Yes, you with the black hair! ARe you thinking about entering the contest today?"
[14:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> She walks over, dressed in a business suit and pantyhose. She looks mature, and rather smartly dressed.
[14:07] <Rei-chan> "Huh?" Rei turns a startled look at the blonde, "No, I was just wondering what was going on," she answers quickly.
[14:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's the setup for the NasumiSoft beauty contest, for a ticket higher up, not to mention a nice prize package," she says, getting close enough to lay off the megaphone. "You're certainly pretty enough to compete... the both of you are," she nods to you.
[14:10] <Rei-chan> "Ah, thank you," Rei blushes at the compliment, "But, I don't really know..." she looks at Eudial for support, forgetting that the redhead had just urged her to try it.
[14:10] <Rei-chan> "Wait... prize package?" Rei turns to the blonde with a gleam in her eye.
[14:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial blinks. "Yeah, prizes?" she asks, interested herself. "What... SORT... of prizes?"
[14:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> The blonde nods. "25,000 yen, a collection of free cosmetics and clothes, and a ticket to the Tokyo City Pageant," he explains. "Sign-ups are open for a few more hours, if you're interested... and I must say, with your bodies, you'd have a very good chance."
[14:13] <Rei-chan> "Well..." Rei draws the word out, "I guess it can't hurt..."
[14:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial nods. 'That would go a long way towards a new engine...' "It really couldn't," she says offhandedly, smiling oddly.
[14:14] <Rei-chan> "Alright, where do we sign up?" Rei smiles at the blonde.
[14:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> She smiles broadly. "Right over there," she points to a desk set up on the other side of the area. "You'll need one formal dress and one swimsuit each."
[14:16] <Rei-chan> "I've got both of them," Rei nods, already making her way over to the desk.
[14:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial follows along, thinking. "Yeah... I'll have to head home real quick, but I can get those."
[14:21] <Rei-chan> After signing up, Rei returns to the blonde, "So what time should we come back here for?"
[14:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'd advise for you to be here by 6 PM, no later," the man manning the desk advises.
[14:22] <Rei-chan> "That's plenty time to get ready," Rei nods to herself.
[14:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah. Rei, are you going to need to go by the Shrine? I can drive you there," Eudial offers.
[14:23] <Rei-chan> "Thanks," Rei smiles, "I'll need to pick up my clothes - good thing I bought that new swimsuit last week."
[14:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[14:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> Happening to need to run by the mall in the middle of the afternoon, Haruka happens across a nearly-completed stage in the middle of the mall plaza, workers setting up a audience section as well. Quite unusual.
[14:29] <Haruka> "Interesting," she says to herself. After Tuesday's revelation she was still in a bit of numb shock, but figured trying to get out and about would help her get back some shred of normalcy in her life.
[14:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> A blonde with a microphone is ordering the workers around, making quite a ruckus as she does so. "Get those benches ready... I said higher...", that sort of thing.
[14:34] <Haruka> "Is it a concert?" Haruka wonders aloud. She looks around for someone not occupied to shed some light on what's going on.
[14:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> There are two workers who look to be on break, sitting on a mall bench a bit away from the bustle of the work, chatting quietly and eating sandwiches.
[14:36] <Haruka> "Excuse me," she asks. "I was wondering if you could tell me what's going on here? Is it a concert or TV show or something?"
[14:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Huh?" One of the two burly men look up. "No, it's a beauty contest," he says, "Some company is holding one here in an hour or so."
[14:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> The other guy grins. "At least we'll get to see a lot of hot girls before we have to take this all down," he laughs, agreeing with his friend.
[14:40] <Haruka> Haruka gives the man that answered a grin. "Nice." Looking around the immediate area she asks, "Do you know if you have to buy a ticket to watch or is it free entry?"
[14:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's free," he shrugs. "Some of the benches are already set up, and the rest will be before 5:30."
[14:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Damn straight," he then agrees with his partner. "Did you see some of the girls signing up? Damn, I'm gonna get myself some numbers if I get the chance!"
[14:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hell yeah," the second one grins back. "Did you see that redhead with the dark haired girl? Or the blonde twins? Or that slivery haired girl with a chest out to Osaka?"
[14:44] <Haruka> Haruka chuckles at the remark. "Guys, thanks for the info and all. Take care and good luck with the numbers and all."
[14:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Thanks," the first one grins back. Wow, he needs to brush his teeth more often... whew.
[14:46] <Haruka> Haruka wonders if attending alone or asking some of the others to join would be better, though she wasn't sure if they'd even be interested in the first place.
[14:50] <Haruka> Haruka reaches into her coat pocket for her cell and calls Usagi.
[14:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Tsukino residence," A man answers the phone, sounding nice enough.
[14:52] <Haruka> "Hello there," Haruka replies. "I was wondering if Usagi was around."
[14:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Usagi? Ah, she's not here. Can I take a message?"
[14:55] * Haruka sighs a bit in disappointment. "Sure. Can you tell her that Haruka called?" She gives him the cell number just in case.
[14:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Alright," he says, jotting down the number. "Have a good day." *Click*
[14:59] <Haruka> Seeing as she still has quite a while before the show even starts, Haruka decides to head on over to the shops and browse around to kill time.
[15:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[15:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> The backstage area is really a cleared out, empty shopfront with some temporary walls added and mirrors for getting dressed. It's not much, yet it holds about thirty girls. As you two enter, one of them is familiar, Viluy wearing a very revealing blue bra and panties as she changes. Several other girls are in this state, so it's not that unusual.
[15:06] <Rei-chan> "Hi, Viluy!" Rei smiles, approaching her fellow Witch. "You're in this too, huh?"
[15:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> She turns, seeing both Rei and Eudial. "You're in this as well," she says, a touch surprised. "Yeah, I got talked into it."
[15:08] <Rei-chan> "Us too," Rei replies, "The prize sounds pretty good, but even if we don't win it could be kind of fun anyway."
[15:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah," Eudial agrees. "We'll have to beat you, Viluy," she grins. "That prize is so ours."
[15:10] <Rei-chan> "Ours?" Rei looks askance at Eudial, "I don't think we can share it..."
[15:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial just grins further. "Then, Rei, I'll just have to win it for myself," she smirks. "After all, I have the most beauty and talent here out of all of us."
[15:11] <Rei-chan> "Hmm," Rei smirks, "We'll see who the judges like best, I guess." So saying, she looks around to check out the rest of the competition.
[15:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Sure," Viluy snorts, matching Eudial. "If I'm going to the trouble to enter this, I'm going to win for sure."
[15:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei - A flock of attractive, well rounded girls are about. Frankly, if you weren't attached already... stiff competition indeed.
[15:13] <Rei-chan> "So, is it swimsuits first?" Rei asks as she takes her top off.
[15:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial leans towards Viluy, smiling in a strangely cattish manner. "I wouldn't be so sure, Viluy-chan," she drawls. "I'd think the judges would look past your one selling point," A glance down at her chest, "and realise you aren't that much past that."
[15:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> Twitch. "At least I have a selling point, Eudial-chan," she grates to the redhead. Turning away from Eudial, she bends over to go into a travel bag she has with her. "Formal wear first, actually."
[15:16] <Rei-chan> "Come on, guys," Rei shakes her head, "This is just for fun, right?" she asks, not wanting to see the Witches fall back into old habits.
[15:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial blinks, shaking her head. "Yeah, sounds right. Must've lost myself for a moment there, Viluy," she says, shrugging and then starting to change clothes herself, into a nice black dress. It's wispy and light, almost like Kaolinite's.
[15:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> Viluy shrugs, putting it behind her for the moment and goes with an elegant dark blue evening gown with slits on the side.
[15:18] * Rei-chan looks around for a quiet spot behind some of the temporary walls where she can change into her own dress, since she won't be putting it on the conventional way.
[15:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> There is one that looks like it'll work well enough.
[15:21] * Rei-chan goes there and closes her eyes for a second. Without flash or fanfare, her previous outfit disappears, promptly replaced by a long flowing gown of finest silk. It's mostly deep red, except straight down the front where it is a far paler shade. It hugs her curves tightly, revealing a decent amount of cleavage, while the material pools around her feet. Smiling, she takes her phoenix pendant from subspace and puts it on before emerging.
[15:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial is just getting the straps on her dress right when she catches sight of Rei. "Wow," she sucks in her breath when she sees that.
[15:24] <Rei-chan> "That good?" Rei strikes a pose, preening slightly at the attention.
[15:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> Viluy nods. "Really good...I'll just have to beat you, now," she smiles.
[15:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[15:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> Haruka arrives around 5:30, the rows of benches now set up. People are starting to fill in, and of note is a certain rabbit with an old man, finding seats themselves.
[15:27] * Usagi-chan grins over at Gramps as the two manage to find a seat near the front of the seating area. "This is going to be so cool... Rei-chan's in a real beauty pageant!"
[15:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I knew she'd make her old Grandfather happy one day," he replies, even shedding a tear and sniffling.
[15:28] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I wonder what she's going to wear?"
[15:28] <Haruka> "I didn't know you'd be interested in seeing this kind of show, Usagi," Haruka says, greeting the blonde.
[15:29] * Usagi-chan looks up at the blonde's husky voice. "Huh? Oh hi, Haruka-san!" She gives the taller girl a friendly wave. "Rei told me she's actually IN it, so of course I had to come!"
[15:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Or all the other cute girls," he grins and chirps. "Maybe I'll even get a few to help out at the Shrine! Such girls must need inner peace and purity to go with their outer beauty," he says, hoping that said girls will buy that speech.
[15:30] * Usagi-chan giggles at the old man. "Good luck, Gramps!"
[15:31] <Haruka> "Rei's in it?" Haruka asks with a curious look, taking a seat. "Now THIS will be interesting. Did any of the others come to watch too?"
[15:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Eh?" Gramps turns to Haruka. "Are you a friend of Rei's, young man?"
[15:32] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Not as far as I know... Makoto didn't say anything when I tried to talk to her, and I didn't try Herb. Ami didn't feel like coming, either."
[15:33] <Haruka> "Of sorts," Haruka answers, extending a hand to the older man in greeting. "Haruka Tenoh. Pleased to meet you."
[15:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> He takes it, a firm grip for such an old looking, short man. "Just call me Gramps," he nods.
[15:34] <Usagi-chan> "She's... with me and Rei and Ami and the other girls," Usagi tells the old priest.
[15:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Aaaaaaah." He nods at that. "SHE?" he blinks, looking at her closely.
[15:34] * Usagi-chan giggles.
[15:34] * Haruka only smirks in reply.
[15:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> The three settle in, the benches soon filling. At least two hundred spectators, mostly young men and a few blushing girls, fill in.
[15:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> Soon enough, the makeshift stage has a spotline shining on it, an official looking blonde with a microphone standing there. "Welcome to NasumiSoft's special beauty pageant!"
[15:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> Amid a few cheers, she goes on. "Now getting on the stage are our competitors. Let's give them a big hand!"
[15:39] * Usagi-chan applauds as the woman steps away from the center of the stage. 'I wonder when Rei will be coming out?'
[15:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> A line of girls at least 40 long is ascending the stage, forming a row at the back of the stage three deep. You notice Rei, and Eudial is right besides her in black dress almost wispy enough to be a nightie. But... if your eyes don't deceive you, that's Viluy in the back row, too, in a blue gown...
[15:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We'll start by introducing each girl and have them say a bit about themselves," the emcee announces. The first few girls set the trend: a bit of posing, a short bit about themselves, a bit more posing, back in line. Rei comes first, and Usagi's breath catches in her throat. That dress...
[15:42] * Usagi-chan stares in shock, her hands flying to her open mouth as she gapes at her girlfriend. "Oh my god..." she says in a hoarse whisper, a flood of memories rushing through her mind at the sight of Rei - PRINCESS Rei - taking center stage.
[15:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> The crowd cheers quite a bit at Rei's arrival, making noise for the beautiful girl.
[15:43] <Haruka> "Something wrong?" Haruka asks Usagi worriedly, trying to be heard over the den of noise.
[15:44] * Rei-chan gracefully glides up to the front of the stage, all her natural poise showing through. "Hello, everyone," she smiles brightly, giving a special smile to Usagi in the front row, "My name is Rei Hino, I'm fourteen years old, and in grade 9 at Mugen Gakuen. I live at Hikawa Shrine with my Grandpa where I work as a miko, and in my spare time I like to write songs and sing them," she concludes, still smiling cheerfully for the crowd.
[15:44] * Usagi-chan shakes her head gently, her voice lost for the moment.
[15:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> The crowd showers praises on Rei..... "Isn't she wonderful, ladies and gentlemen? Such a refined lady, cheer to let us know how much you like her!"
[15:46] * Usagi-chan makes no noise, unshed tears glistening in her eyes as the crowd thunders around her. 'Oh my god, Rei...'
[15:47] <Rei-chan> 'Usagi? What's wrong?' Rei pauses in her smiling at the crowd as she gives Usagi a concerned look.
[15:48] <Usagi-chan> 'You look...' Usagi pauses for a moment, searching for the right word. 'Amazing... I don't even know how to BEGIN to describe it.'
[15:49] <Rei-chan> Rei's face lights up as she smiles at Usagi. 'Thank you,' she responds sincerely.
[15:50] * Usagi-chan manages to get her hands in her lap, her mouth closing in a broad smile. 'You're welcome... good luck, Princess.' She gives the miko a wink.
[15:51] <Rei-chan> "Heh," Rei grins, bowing demurely to the crowd so as not to show too much cleavage before going back to the other contestants for the next person to come up. 'So you noticed, huh?'
[15:51] <Usagi-chan> 'How could I NOT notice? You almost gave me a heart attack in that dress, Rei!' Usagi retorts.
[15:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> As they chat, the next few girls go...
[15:53] <Rei-chan> 'I just realised I had it a few days ago,' Rei admits. 'Kinda handy, I don't think I could ever afford something like this in this lifetime...'
[15:55] <Usagi-chan> 'Well, you look absolutely stunning in it, Rei-chan.' Usagi says, with a bright smile on her face.
[15:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Next is another student from Mugen, Eudial! Give her a big hand, folks!"
[15:56] <Rei-chan> 'I don't think I got that kind of reaction from you last time I wore it,' Rei thinks back mischeviously, even as a faint frown crosses her features and she tries to sense anything odd within the vicinity.
[15:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei - You do not sense anything unusual.
[15:57] <Usagi-chan> Having regained her composure by this point, Usagi smiles and gives the redhand a rousing hand. "Way to go, Eudial!" she shouts.
[15:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial strides forward, waving once and giving the crowd a good turn. Her reception is decent, but not as good as Rei's.
[15:58] * Rei-chan looks thoughtful for a moment, before deciding to dismiss it, focusing her attention back on the pageant.
[15:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'm from Mugen Gakuen, where I work as an assisstant to Professor Tomoe. I like cars, racing and machines, and I'm single!" she manages a cute giggle at that, which not only fails to work, but sounds rather phony.
[15:59] * Haruka claps at that answer.
[15:59] * Usagi-chan winces slightly at the giggle. 'Think you overdid it a little, Eudial...'
[15:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> She waves again, and the next girl comes...
[16:01] <Rei-chan> As she stands on the stage, Rei looks around the crowd for any familiar faces besides Usagi and her two companions.
[16:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> You don't see anyone you know besides Usagi, Haruka and Gramps, Rei.
[16:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> Finally, it's Viluy's turn. In her blue dress, she comes up, getting cheered a fair bit.
[16:03] * Usagi-chan frowns suddenly, looking around the audience and up on the stage carefully.
[16:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> Usagi - Nothing out of the ordinary, you think....
[16:04] * Usagi-chan checks one more time, just to be sure - this wouldn't be the FIRST time that something like this has been attacked.
[16:05] * Rei-chan notes Usagi looking around. 'Something wrong, Usagi?'
[16:06] <Usagi-chan> 'Thought I saw something, like a weird aura. But I guess I was either imagining it or it's gone now.' Usagi thinks, settling back to look at the stage with a sigh.
[16:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> Usagi - Nothing...
[16:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> Viluy gives her speech, going over the same territory as Eudial and Rei did. Frankly, the crowd isn't really paying attention to her mouth, they're aiming lower.
[16:07] <Rei-chan> 'Hmm... I thought I felt something a little odd a minute ago, but it seems gone, now...'
[16:07] <Usagi-chan> 'You too? Maybe it ISN'T just my imagination then...' Usagi frowns slightly.
[16:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei and Usagi - This time, you suddenly sense something overhead. Something is happening, the crowd starting to stir!
[16:09] * Rei-chan looks up at what she senses. 'Dammit, can't anything ever go by peacefully?!'
[16:09] * Usagi-chan looks straight at the source of the disturbance, reaching over to grab Haruka's arm as she does so. "Something's happening!"
[16:09] * Haruka looks upwards, joining Usagi's gaze.
[16:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Soul check, all PCs. +1
[16:09] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+1
[16:09] * Shai`Hulud --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+1 and gets 11."
[16:10] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+1
[16:10] * Shai`Hulud --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+1 and gets 9."
[16:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> Above is a shadow-clad figure, floating as people begin to fall and clutch at their chests!
[16:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:10] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[16:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:10] * Shai`Hulud --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:10] <Haruka> roll 2d6+1
[16:10] * Shai`Hulud --> "Haruka rolls 2d6+1 and gets 12."
[16:11] <Rei-chan> "Germatou!"
[16:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial and Viluy crumple as well, as a bevy of Heart Crystals pop out! But... so does Haruka's and her Talisman! "Why, what do we have here?" Germatou grins, laughing as it decends. "I believe I've struck oil!"
[16:12] <Rei-chan> "No you don't!" Rei cries, flinging a fireball up at Germatou, heedless of giving away her identity in the face of losing a Talisman.
[16:12] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[16:12] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[16:12] <Usagi-chan> "No you haven't!" Usagi growls, shifting to the form of the Lunar Princess and attempting to grab the errant Talisman with her mind!
[16:12] <Serenity-hime> roll 2d6
[16:12] * Hatbot --> "Serenity-hime rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:15] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[16:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> The fireball strikes the Daimon's body, rocking it a bit. It keeps decending despite that, it's grin huge. "Oh, what do we have here? A firebug Witch and a Princess? How delightful! Allow me to introduce myself, Princess Serenity! I am Germatou, and you are dead," it's grin is twisted now, and quite vile.
[16:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:13] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[16:14] <Rei-chan> "Mars Power, Make Up!" Rei cries, producing her transformation pen.
[16:14] <Serenity-hime> "Stay away from me, you bastard!" Serenity shouts, taking hold of the sword.
[16:18] * Serenity-hime grabs the Sword from the air, holding it out towards the daimon in a clumsy defensive pose. "I don't think so!"

[Halbarad]

[16:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - We'd better go to initiative here to keep things flowing well.
[16:18] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6+10
[16:18] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6+10 and gets 12."
[16:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[16:18] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[16:19] <Serenity-hime> roll 1d6+5
[16:19] * Hatbot --> "Serenity-hime rolls 1d6+5 and gets 8."
[16:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> "But now," it giggles, "Let me introduce you to my special friend! She's quite eager to see you again, Princess!"
[16:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> As if a bit of mist, the shadows surrounding the monster are gone! A twisted, ill, terrible woman stands before you, oily black hair and bloody eyes gazing a hole into you. Familiar... familiar...
[16:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Princess SERENITY," the woman spits the name out with contempt. "I should have known your family would still be alive."
[16:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> Her garb is a black evening gown, beautiful if a bit burned on one side just now. She gazes hatefully at Serenity...
[16:23] * Serenity-hime's mind races, the name finally springing to her lips. "Guinvain... I should have known you'd still be around somewhere." She narrows her eyes, staring at the rogue senshi.
[16:23] <Rei-chan> Leaping off the stage, Rei tries to tackle Germatou's host body to the ground and restrain her!
[16:23] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[16:23] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[16:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:24] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[16:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> With strange, catlike agility, she moves her body just out of the way, slithering over a bench to narrowly avoid Rei! She stays focused on the Princess, however, paying Rei no more mind than she has to. "You have something I want, Princess. Why don't you give it to me and die quietly?"
[16:28] <Serenity-hime> "With what you want to do with it? I'd rather die than let you have it." she spits, withdrawing her brooch from subspace. "And I don't plan on doing that today! Moon Prism Power, Make UP!"
[16:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative.
[16:28] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6+10
[16:28] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6+10 and gets 15."
[16:28] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[16:28] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 15."
[16:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[16:28] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[16:29] * Sailor_Moon dashes to Haruka's side, placing the sword flat against her chest and willing the magical object to return to its owner!
[16:32] * Rei-chan picks herself up again, a sword of flame appearing in her right hand and a scowl on her lips. "Don't ignore me!" she cries, unleashing a spinning backhand slash at Germatou/Guinvain.
[16:32] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[16:32] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[16:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> It shimmers a moment, reembedding itself in Haruka's body. The blonde moans and stirs, regaining consciousness.
[16:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:32] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:33] <Haruka> "What happened...." Haruka groans.
[16:33] <Sailor_Moon> "It's Germatou - he took your Heart Crystal, but we got it back from him. He knows you have a Talisman now." Usagi says in a low voice, keeping her eyes fixed on the daimon.
[16:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> Again merely ducking out of Rei's way, the woman menaces towards Usagi! "So, that is the carrier of one the Talismans? No matter. Die, Princess!" From her, a burning Dragon's Face appears over her, then shoots off at Usagi! "Dragon Fire Obliteration!"
[16:35] <Haruka> Seeing the attack's approach Haruka calls out, "Uranus Planet Power, Make Up!"
[16:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:36] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[16:36] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[16:36] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[16:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> Having no other option but to dive for dear life, Sailor Moon avoids the Dragon Fire, it instead destroying a few benches.
[16:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> However, Sailor Uranus appearing in place of Haruka DOES get her attention. "Ooooooooooh-hohhHO!" she turns to the Sailor of Uranus. "The Talisman bearer is Sailor Uranus to boot! How... INTERESTING..."
[16:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[16:41] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[16:41] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6+10
[16:41] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6+10 and gets 14."
[16:41] * Sailor_Uranus gives the speaker a puzzled frown. "Who *are* you?"
[16:41] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[16:41] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 18."
[16:42] <Sailor_Uranus> roll 1d6+14
[16:42] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Uranus rolls 1d6+14 and gets 15."
[16:45] * Sailor_Moon grits her teeth, a brilliant beam of white light emerging from her joined hands to lance out at Guinvain!
[16:45] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[16:45] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[16:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:46] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[16:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Twisting her body back and to the side in a way that should dislocate her bones, the bolt is dodged! The wall it finally hits is near vaporized, devastated by the blast!
[16:47] * Sailor_Moon winces. 'Hope I don't have to pay for that...'
[16:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I was hoping Sailor Dragon had survived the crash as well," she remarks. "I'll just settle for the Lunar bitch... Eternal Dragon's ROAR!" She spins, pointing at Usagi as a huge mass of flame forms, roaring towards Usagi!
[16:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:50] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[16:50] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[16:50] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[16:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> Sailor Moon is struck by the flames, her body engulfed in a raging inferno of Dragon Fire!
[16:52] * Sailor_Moon screams in pain as the blazing fire roars over her body.
[16:52] <Sailor_Uranus> "Usagi!" Haruka cries out in horror.
[16:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> The flames fade, revealing a badly burned but still alive Usagi! "You lived?" she cocks her head at Usagi, surprised.
[16:53] <Sailor_Uranus> Gathering the power in her hands, Sailor Uranus flings her attack at the figure. "World Shaking!"
[16:53] <Sailor_Uranus> roll 2d6
[16:53] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Uranus rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:54] * Sailor_Moon struggles to her feet in obvious pain. "Takes more... than that to take me down!" she says defiantly.
[16:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:55] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> From the side, World Shaking hits Guinvain, the woman not really paying much attention to anyone besides Usagi! She stumbles from it, on her knees for a moment before almost oozing back to her feet!
[16:57] <Rei-chan> Enraged at seeing Usagi so badly hurt, Rei once more swings her sword at Germatou/Guinvain, only instead of her previous wild swing, this one is a calculated strike at the daimon's neck!
[16:57] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+2
[16:57] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[16:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:59] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> The flaming brand slices through her neck like nothing! A bit of oil-like liquid squirts out as the blade passes through! Yet, her flesh acts like a foul liquid, only momentarily disrupted by the strike!
[17:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> She turns to Rei, finally haven gotten her attention! She opens her mouth to speak... but instead, a flying rose passes through her face, causing her entire body to ripple!
[17:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Obviously, Queen Serenity's mercy was wasted on one such as you," Prince Endymion calls, sword pointing right at her from his perch on a stray bench. "You align yourself with the foulest of beings once freed!"
[17:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> Her body done resonating to his attack, she sneers. "Prince Endymion. You live in this era as well?"
[17:08] <Rei-chan> "Quite the reunion, isn't it?" Rei notes, producing her transformation pen in her free hand. "A pity you didn't choose to stay beneath our notice, Guinvain."
[17:10] * Sailor_Uranus watches the proceedings in silence, not quite familiar with the new players on the field. She takes an occasional glance at Usagi to make sure she's okay, while keeping track of what's going on around her.
[17:18] * Sailor_Moon slowly pulls herself together, glaring at Germatou's new host. "You'd be surprised at who's here, Guinvain." she growls.
[17:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:19] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[17:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:19] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[17:20] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 for rejuv (HP)
[17:20] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for rejuv (HP) and gets 7."
[17:20] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6+10
[17:20] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6+10 and gets 15."
[17:20] <Sailor_Uranus> roll 1d6+14
[17:20] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Uranus rolls 1d6+14 and gets 20."
[17:23] * Sailor_Uranus shifts her position to shield Usagi while asking over her shoulder, "How're you holding up, Usagi?"
[17:23] * Sailor_Moon seems to be in a bit better shape somehow. "I'll manage." She manages to give the tall senshi a weak grin.
[17:27] <Rei-chan> Holding up her transformation pen, Rei cries out "Mars Power, Make UP!" as rings of flame briefly surrounding her, transforming her into the beautiful soldier of fire and passion, Sailor Mars!
[17:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Then, if the odds change..." she raises her hand, the Heart Crystals about zooming and mashing together in front of her! One is a blackened, dimmed heart, cracking open when it reaches the mass and spilling over all the others!
[17:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> The mass of Heart Crystals changes into a pinkish, feminine being, a crystalline girl wearing an overly-complicated and gaudy dress!
[17:31] <Sailor_Uranus> "What the..." Haruka exclaims, this being the first time she's seen this particular scene.
[17:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> "...Va...nity....Vanity...." The Heartless murmurs as it's being born into existance!
[17:32] <Sailor_Moon> "Try not to destroy it, Uranus." Usagi says through gritted teeth. "You'll destroy all the Heart Crystals if you do."
[17:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> Surging forward, Endymion delivers a massive slash at her, trying to cleave her from head to toe!
[17:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:33] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[17:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:33] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[17:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> It nicks her, a bit more of a liquid oozing as she is barely affected!
[17:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Comments and initiative.
[17:34] <Sailor_Mars> 'We need to affect her entire body with a massive attack, Usagi! Otherwise she'll keep regenerating!'
[17:35] <Sailor_Moon> 'Combine attacks then?' Usagi sends back curtly.
[17:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Go, Vanity," she calls. "Rend apart these ugly creatures!"
[17:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:35] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[17:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:35] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[17:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:35] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[17:35] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[17:35] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 16."
[17:35] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[17:35] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 15."
[17:36] <Sailor_Mars> 'You read my mind,' Rei smirks, quickly moving to join the other two senshi.
[17:36] <Sailor_Uranus> roll 1d6+14
[17:36] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Uranus rolls 1d6+14 and gets 15."
[17:36] <Sailor_Moon> "Attack when Rei does," Moon murmurs to Uranus.
[17:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Guinvain/Mars, Uranus/Moon, Endy, Heartless.
[17:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> Raising her power again, she shouts forth: "Eternal Dragon's ROAR!" The mass of flame forms, screaming towards Mars!
[17:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:38] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[17:39] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+2
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+2 and gets 6."
[17:40] <Sailor_Mars> "You should know better than to match your fire with me, Guinvain!" Mars crows arrogantly, raising up her palms to block the torrent of flame!
[17:44] <Sailor_Uranus> The power within Sailor Uranus sings, rushing to her aid at her call. A golden aura was gathering around her form as she shouted, "Quaking..." The power leaves her fingertip leaving a golden trail behind it.
[17:47] * Sailor_Moon holds aloft the Lunar Rod, waves of sparkling energy pouring from the end of the scepter as it rushes towards the golden sphere, intensifying its glow to a blinding brilliance. "Moon..."
[17:48] * Sailor_Mars then crosses her arms in front of her, summoning forth a hissing serpent of flame, which jets forward to join the other two attacks screaming towards the daimon possessed but already evil anyway rogue senshi! "Serpent!"
[17:48] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[17:48] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[17:48] <Sailor_Uranus> roll 2d6
[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Uranus rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:51] <Sailor_Moon> The serpent seems to swallow the magnified ball of energy, growing immensely in size as it does so. The gigantic snake opens its gaping maw and roars, brilliant crescent fangs gleaming as it charges up into the air and crashes into the floor, disappearing momentarily. The building shakes, and the magical serpent emerges directly beneath Guinvain, closing its jaws around the rogue senshi as it charges upwards!
[17:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:51] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[17:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHGGH!" A scream of agony echos from two mouths as Guinvain is consumed from below by a berserkly huge blast of energy! She is carried upward in the current of raw power, covered utterly in the force of the combined Senshi!
[17:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> The Serpent bursts through the roof, carrying the monster with it! Up, up, up, out of the mall!
[17:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> As this happens, the Heartless seems to just fall apart, back to Heart Crystals...
[17:55] <Sailor_Mars> "I think we killed it..." Mars states dumbly, rather impressed at that show of force.
[17:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Indeed," Endymion seconds, staring on at the raw destruction.
[17:55] * Sailor_Moon nods slowly, a bit overawed herself at the power just unleashed.
[17:56] <Sailor_Uranus> "It better be!" Haruka replies with a huff, looking now at the remains of their enemy.
[17:57] * Sailor_Mars watches to see if the Heart Crystals are returning to their owners.
[17:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> The Heart Crystals are now doing so, slowly.
[18:02] * Sailor_Moon sighs, feeling rather drained from the attack. "At least he - they're gone now."
[18:02] <Sailor_Mars> "Now we just need to find Hotaru," Rei nods, turning to the blonde. "You feeling okay?"
[18:03] * Sailor_Moon gives Mars a shaky grin, looking a bit the worse for wear. "I'll live... I just feel like a hamburger that's been grilled."
[18:04] <Sailor_Uranus> "Hotaru?" Sailor Uranus echoes with a questioning look. "Is that the person from the book, Usagi?"
[18:05] <Sailor_Mars> "Book?"
[18:05] * Sailor_Moon nods, then an instant of realization comes over her and she gapes. "Oh my god..."
[18:06] <Sailor_Mars> "What?" Rei looks vaguely alarmed.
[18:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you chat, you notice two things. Endymion has slipped away, and the people are starting to stir. Being stronger than normal people, the two Witches are just getting up...
[18:08] * Sailor_Moon turns to Haruka. "Where do you have that book?" she asks in a rush.
[18:08] <Sailor_Mars> "What book?" Rei is now starting to look a bit annoyed.
[18:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Ugh... no wonder everyone complained about Heart Snatching," Eudial comments, finally getting up.
[18:09] * Sailor_Mars turns to the Witches, now noticing they are up. "Guys, the contest is over. We need to go see the Professor right away," she tells them quickly.
[18:09] <Sailor_Uranus> "It's at my house," she answers, looking at Sailor Moon.
[18:10] <Sailor_Moon> "Come on, we need to go get it then!" She grabs Uranus' arm, dragging her towards the mall exit. "Mars, get everyone together and we'll meet in the office!" she calls over her shoulder.
[18:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[18:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rushing to Mugen, Rei and other two Witches arrive, discussing the day's events. "So you got him?" Viluy asks Rei.
[18:12] <Rei-chan> "Her," Rei corrects, "Believe it or not, Germatou was possessing a rogue Sailor Senshi who had been imprisoned back in the Moon Kingdom - one of the ones who got out last December."
[18:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial snickers at the girl comment. "Anyway... if he's gone," she grins, "Then we just need to find Hotaru and this is finally over."
[18:14] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Rei sighs, "Hopefully with no interference from Germatou, either the Professor's device, the Twins' astral searching, or my fire readings will have better luck in finding her..."
[18:16] * Rei-chan picks up the phone, calling the Professor first, then the other Witches, telepathically telling Usagi to contact the other senshi. She doesn't linger on the calls, just getting across that they need to get to Mugen right away for big news.
[18:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> The Witches, Sailors and crew all flock to Mugen, Rei's call getting the assembled team together within an hour.
[18:19] * Usagi-chan bursts into the office a few moments after the group has gathered, a large leatherbound tome in her arms. She sets the book down on the table with a thump, then turns to the Professor. "Do you have a picture of Hotaru, Professor?" she asks curtly.
[18:20] <Rei-chan> "I have one," Rei pipes up, producing the photo the Professor gave her back when she began her search from her subspace pocket.
[18:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Certainly," he says, starting to reach for his wallet before Rei beats him to it.
[18:21] * Usagi-chan sets the picture down above the book, then opens the large tome. She consults the contents for a moment, then quickly flips through the pages, almost tearing them in her frantic search.
[18:21] <Rei-chan> "What's going on, Usagi? What's in the book?" Rei asks curiously.
[18:22] * Usagi-chan doesn't reply, flipping through the last few pages until she stops at a picture of a young girl in a long purple dress, holding a polearm familiar to several people in the room. "Look at her and the picture of Hotaru, and tell me what you see."
[18:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> The crowd looks on, a few gasps. "Hotaru!" The Professor exclaims, surprised mightily.
[18:24] <Rei-chan> "Hotaru is Sailor Saturn?!" Rei gasps, utterly shocked at this development.
[18:25] * Usagi-chan nods, turning to the Professor. "This is a portrait of Princess Hotaru of Saturn in the Silver Millenium, also known as Sailor Saturn." She glances over at Rei. "The Soldier of Silence."
[18:26] <Rei-chan> "My God..." Rei shakes her head, never having anticipated this.
[18:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Sailor of Slience..." he shakes his head. "It...certainly makes sense..."
[18:27] <Rei-chan> "Do you think Germatou or the Mistress knew?" Rei turns to the Professor.
[18:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> "No," he says, with conviction. "I know neither of them could have, at least as long as I was around them."
[18:29] <Usagi-chan> "And I doubt they know now." Usagi says, sitting down with a sigh. "I can't believe I never realized it until now... I even SHOWED Haruka her picture the other night and didn't connect the two."
[18:29] <Rei-chan> "Well, that's part of why I called you all," Rei glances at Usagi and the book, "Although this is a surprise..." she shakes her head. "Germatou is dead."
[18:30] * Usagi-chan pays little attention to Rei, reading the text on Saturn more thoroughly now that she has reason to do so.
[18:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> The Professor turns to you even quicker. "It... gone?" he smiles, letting out a breath. "Thank goodness. It was nothing but a beast."
[18:31] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, its new host was little better," Rei scowls. "We're better off rid of the pair."
[18:32] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, well they met up with one heck of a beast," Usagi mutters, still buried in the book.
[18:33] * Rei-chan smirks. "It was really impressive, that's for sure." She turns to the Professor, "And now without Germatou to help hide her, we should be able to find Hotaru easier - I hope. And then we remove the Mistress from her and put this whole mess behind us."
[18:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> The Witches talk amongst themselves at this, discussing this turn of events.
[18:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> He closes his eyes a moment. "Yes... finally."
[18:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> "If that daimon was shielding," Cyprine speaks up, "We should try searching again now. Ptilol and I can start any time."
[18:35] <Rei-chan> "The sooner the better," Rei smiles at her, "I'd need to go back to the Shrine to do anything, but you guys can go for it right away, right?"
[18:35] * Usagi-chan closes the book, leaning back in her chair with a sigh. "Go ahead and start now... it'll give me time to look for someone."
[18:37] * Usagi-chan looks over at the blonde senshi who followed her in. "Haruka, can you give me a lift?"
[18:38] <Rei-chan> "Who are you looking for, Usagi?" Rei turns to the Dumpling Head.
[18:38] <Haruka> "Sure," Haruka answers. "But where are we going?"
[18:38] <Usagi-chan> "Setsuna." Usagi says in a clipped tone. "If Hotaru is Sailor Saturn, we're going to need her transformation pen, and I don't think the Mau are going to have hers. If she doesn't have it, she can probably tell me where to get it."
[18:39] <Rei-chan> "And where do you expect to find her?" Rei asks, not thinking Setsuna lives in a place you can just drive to...
[18:40] <Usagi-chan> "I'm going to try to see if Starfire's portal is still there - if anyone will know how to contact Setsuna, I expect it'd be her." Usagi replies.
[18:41] <Rei-chan> "That's true," Rei nods. 'But Usagi, are you sure giving Hotaru her transformation pen would be a good idea?'
[18:41] <Haruka> "Starfire? Portal?" Haruka asks.
[18:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> Meanwhile, The Professor has gone over to Cyprine, quietly talking to her while you other girl plan and plot.
[18:43] <Usagi-chan> "Why wouldn't it be? Once the Mistress is gone, she'll need it - maybe not now, but later." She nods over towards Haruka. "If Haruka is any example, she's going to become a senshi eventually whether she chooses to or not - and would you rather find out by yourself or have it explained to you?"
[18:43] <Rei-chan> "Yes, later," Rei says firmly. "Not now. She's younger even than Minako was when she became Sailor V. She doesn't need this dumped on her."
[18:45] <Usagi-chan> "I don't plan on asking her to fight at all. But it would be nice to give her time to prepare for it when it DOES come time."
[18:46] * Rei-chan doesn't look convinced. "She's already lost so much of her childhood to the Mistress. It's not fair to make her lose even more of it to 'duty'," she says, not looking very happy at all.
[18:47] <Usagi-chan> "I understand, Rei-chan. But there will come a time when she'll come to need it, and I'd rather have it ready when she does. If you'd rather I didn't tell her... I can understand that. But I just want to be prepared."
[18:49] <Rei-chan> "She's too young, Usagi. Please, just let her have what's left of her childhood without worrying about the kind of things we deal with," Rei asks, a pleading edge in her tone.
[18:50] <Haruka> "Fate, destiny, whatever you want to call it is going to come to her regardless, Rei" Haruka adds from the side.
[18:51] <Usagi-chan> "I won't tell her if you don't want me to, Rei." Usagi says in a defeated tone. "But I still want to be prepared for when the time DOES come, since it will sooner or later."
[18:52] <Haruka> Looking at the pair Haruka says, "All we can really do is be there for her and support her when the time to become a senshi comes."
[18:52] <Rei-chan> "When the time comes, she'll make her own choices," Rei replies determinedly. "Putting the weight of destiny on her too early will only hurt her in the long run," she adds, thinking of the other Sailor Senshi who was called by her destiny at a young age and how she turned out.
[18:55] * Usagi-chan sighs, rubbing her temples. "I just want to be prepared, that's all. I won't force anything on her, or even tell her who we really are if we can help it. But I want to be ready in case she ever DOES realize that she's a senshi, and that she wants to pursue that. Is that wrong?"
[18:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> The Professor comes back from his chat with the Twins, having kept an ear on this. "If she is a Sailor," he butts in, "She should know. If she can learn to protect herself... she won't get possessed again."
[18:57] * Rei-chan doesn't look too happy, but nods. 'I only hope she can meet her destiny and not be broken beneath it like someone else...'
[18:58] * Usagi-chan sighs, fully aware of who Rei is thinking of. 'She'll have us there to help her every step of the way, Rei-chan. If I can help her with that burden, I will.'
[18:58] <Rei-chan> 'I know you will,' Rei manages a smile, 'You wouldn't be the girl I love if you didn't.'
[18:59] * Usagi-chan gives Rei a smile. "It'll work out, Rei-chan, I know it will."
[19:00] <Rei-chan> "I'll put my faith in you," Rei replies seriously, putting the debate behind her so they can move on properly.
[19:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you speak... "We have something, Professor," Cyprine calls out quickly.
[19:02] * Rei-chan looks over sharply, already tensing for action.
[19:02] * Usagi-chan looks over at the Twins. "What is it?"
[19:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's nearby... a few miles... a house..." Cyprine says slowly, as if concentrating. "Ptilol says her energy is fluctuating."
[19:07] * Haruka looks over at Usagi, "Shall we?"
[19:07] * Usagi-chan nods to Haruka. "Yeah, the sooner the better." She looks over at Rei. "You coming?"
[19:07] <Rei-chan> "Of course!"
[19:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Let's go, then," he says quickly.
[19:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[19:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei, Usagi, Haruka, Cyprine and Professor Tomoe go out, taking a van used for general Mugen purposes.
[19:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cyprine leads you into some rather average looking houses, nothing special about them... One, however, is picked out by her, looking a bit drab, its green paint peeling slightly.
[19:09] * Rei-chan senses out towards the house for Hotaru or the Mistress. Or that funky death aura that she remembers was guarding the glaive on the Moon.
[19:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> The ride there is tense, despite the Professor breaking several driving laws himself. As you get closer, Usagi and Rei can feel...something. It's like Germatou...and the Silence Glaive.
[19:10] * Usagi-chan gets a rather grim expression. "It's her, all right." she says quietly.
[19:10] <Rei-chan> "That's our girl..." Rei remarks quietly, feeling the end in sight for this quest.
[19:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cyprine gets out. Not really caring much about the niceties of the situation, a blast of blue energy wrecks in the front door. "She's weakening," she calls as she shows some haste in getting inside.
[19:11] * Usagi-chan runs after Cyprine, homing in on the source of the aura she can feel permeating the house.
[19:11] * Rei-chan follows quickly, transforming pretty much as soon as she's in the door with a cry of "Mars Power, Make Up!"
[19:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> The others sprint as well, the Professor following behind. Cyprine leads you into the interior of the house, to a single door. It's ajar, and inside is a miniature replica of the Mistress's room from Mugen... except the Mistress is keeled over on her throne, jerking as violet and black energy seem to battle over her body!
[19:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> "HOTARU!" Tomoe calls, a note of frantic concern now evident as he rushes forward...
[19:13] <Sailor_Mars> "Professor, wait!" Rei grabs him, "Wait until Sailor Moon purifies her!"
[19:14] <Usagi-chan> "Moon Prism Power, Make Up." Usagi says in a serious tone, a far cry from her normal shout.
[19:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> As Rei gets him just in time, the Mistress's head jerks up. "You..." A familiar chuckle escapes her lips. "We have her, and we won't let go!"
[19:14] <Haruka> "Uranus Planet Power, Make Up!" Haruka says as well.
[19:14] <Sailor_Moon> "Yes, you will." Usagi says in a calm tone.
[19:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> Hotaru twiches again, another voice coming out of her mouth. "Daddy?" she cries, sounding sad and hopeless. "DADDY!"
[19:15] <Sailor_Moon> Bringing the Lunar Rod from its storage in subspace, she glances over at the Twins. "A little help here?" She gives the pair a small grin.
[19:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> The two auras around her clash again, spiritual sparks flying off her body... worse yet,it's clearly breaking her body apart!
[19:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> They nod, their energy quickly flowing into Usagi.
[19:15] <Sailor_Moon> "Hold on, Hotaru-chan... we'll have you back to normal in no time." Usagi sends the girl a smile.
[19:16] <Sailor_Mars> "Hurry, Sailor Moon!" Rei yells, not liking how this is looking for Hotaru.
[19:16] * Sailor_Moon raises the scepter with a cry, wasting no time once the energy flows into her. "Moon Healing Escalation!"
[19:16] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[19:16] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[19:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> "No... NO! We will bring our Silence," Hotaru face twists in a twisted grin, but it no longer seems totally convinced...
[19:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> The Moon Healing flows over Hotaru...!
[19:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> Her body suddenly goes completely, bolt upright...the two auras clashing with the third....
[19:18] * Sailor_Moon focuses on the second, invasive aura, pouring her power into driving it out of the girl on the throne!
[19:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> A moment passes... "ARGH! DAMN YOU!" Germatou cries in agony, the black aura winking out with a shower of black sparks! Hotaru slumps in her seat, the violet aura the only one left now.
[19:19] * Sailor_Mars lets go of the Professor. "It's gone..."
[19:19] * Sailor_Moon slumps to her knees as she releases the healing magic, feeling utterly drained as before.
[19:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cyprine staggers herself, leaning onto the wall...
[19:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> But it's not over...
[19:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> Hotaru goes bone straight again, almost soaring off her throne!
[19:20] * Sailor_Moon watches the girl intently, searching for any traces of outside power in her aura.
[19:20] <Sailor_Mars> "What on Earth?!" Rei gasps, looking at the small girl in surprise as she had thought the foreign aura was gone completely.
[19:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "...Saturn...Star....Power...." Another... voice, another thing calls from her lips. Amid flashes of violet light, Hotaru Tomoe transforms into the Soldier of Destruction, Sailor Saturn! Her eyes clear as she drops to the ground lightly, blinking. "Where am... I, Daddy?" Hotaru says, dazed.
[19:22] * Sailor_Moon looks over at Rei sadly. 'Guess we don't have much of a choice.'
[19:22] * Sailor_Uranus blinks, unsure of what's going on exactly...
[19:23] <Sailor_Mars> "Hotaru... Sailor Saturn...?" Rei looks rather dazed at this. 'Guess not...'
[19:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hotaru..." Tomoe says quietly. "Are you alright?" He walks forward, kneeling in front of her. "Hotaru..." he asks again, his voice hoarse.
[19:24] * Sailor_Mars walks forward a bit, but doesn't interfere with the father/daughter reunion, keeping a respectable distance.
[19:24] * Sailor_Moon manages to get to her feet shakily, watching the senshi and the scientist.
[19:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Daddy... is that... really you?" Hotaru says, confused. "You look... like Daddy again," she smiles wanly.
[19:25] <Sailor_Mars> "The daimons are gone, Hotaru-chan," Rei smiles a tad wistfully. "You and your daddy can be together again."
[19:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> No words, Tomoe just draws her into a tight hug.
[19:25] * Sailor_Moon smiles, tears trickling down her cheeks at the sight of the long-overdue reunion.
[19:26] * Sailor_Mars lifts up a hand to wipe her cheek, a bit emotionally affected by the scene herself.
[19:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> Hotaru leans into the hug, Sailor Saturn vanishing as she passes out, Hotaru returning.
[19:27] * Sailor_Mars lets her own transformation vanish, not seeing the need for it any longer.
[19:28] * Sailor_Moon blows out a long breath, letting her power dissipate as well.
[19:29] * Sailor_Uranus follows suit with a sigh of relief.
[19:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rising gently, Professor Tomoe carries Hotaru in his arms. "Thank you," he says quietly, staring down lovingly at Hotaru. "Without what you did, Hotaru would still be..."
[19:29] <Rei-chan> "You love her a lot," Rei observes, still with that wistful smile. "I'm glad we could bring you two together again."
[19:29] * Usagi-chan shakes her head with a smile, her cheeks still wet. "You don't need to thank us, Professor. I'm just happy to see Hotaru home again."
[19:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---