Omakes!

[Anastasia]

If you've hung out in the channel at all, you know that we like to run omakes when we're bored between games. They vary from small laugh scenarios to full blown worlds and adventures. A selected few will be posted here for the amusement of all. First off... a short, hopefully amusing piece called: The new Sailor Neptune.

> Oh no, Sailor Moon! The vicious Spideru v 2.0 has captured you in it's silk webbing! You can't move!
* Usagi-chan is now known as Sailor_Moon
> The other Sailors are nowhere in sight, and you lack the energy to do anything else. Is this the end?!
* Sailor_Moon struggles feebly, trying to escape the sticky strands. "I've got... to get out of here..." she pants.
> As you struggle, you feel your energy being sapped away by the monster's webbing! It's sooooooo tiring...so tired....
* Sailor_Moon 's struggles slow down, Usagi fighting to keep her eyes open. "Can't... sleep..."
> Tired..."Hold it! In the name of a new age, I fight for Grace and Beauty! I am Sailor Neptune and I shall punish you! NEPTUNE DEEP SUBMERGE!" Though half closed eyes, you see a orb of water crush and destory Spideru...
* Sailor_Moon falls to the ground roughly as the webbing disappears along with its owner, barely half-conscious. Her head lolls to the side as she tries to get a better look at her rescuer.
> To your surprise, the figure comes up right to you. A Sailor with long, curly blue hair approaches, older looking than the others..."Oh, hi, Usagi," the mysterious Sailor says. "Rough day at the office?"
<Sailor_Moon> "You... could say that..." Usagi manages to struggle up on one elbow, blinking groggily. "Um... who are you?"
> "Sailor Neptune, of course, dear," the suited Sailor girl smiles, familiar...
* Sailor_Moon struggles to a sitting position, her senses returning slowly as the effects of the energy drain dissipate. "Sailor... Neptune?" She looks at the girl with a sense of vague recognition. "I feel like I should know you..."
> "You should, Usagi-chan," she agrees. Looking at her, you can see she looks to be in her thirties, far older than you other girls.
* Sailor_Moon tries to focus on the woman's aura, looking for anything that might help her recognize the strange senshi.
> Her aura is familiar...so achingly familiar, like a family member. "Is something wrong, Usagi dear," she asks. "You look pale."
* Sailor_Moon 's mouth works for a second, and she looks at the woman's face closely again. 'It can't be...'
> Looking at her again, you wonder why you didn't see it in the first place. It's just a change of clothes, after all.
<Sailor_Moon> "MOM?!" Usagi shouts.
> "Yes, Usagi," she smiles. "Rei-chan said you might need some help if Spideru showed up," she nods, "So I stopped by on the way home from the store to help you out, dear."
<Sailor_Moon> "But I... you... when did..." Usagi gapes in astonishment for a minute.
> "Become a Sailor," she finishes. "Oh, I found a transformation stick at a garage sale. This nice Sailor sold it to me for 99 cents," she keeps up her cheery smile. "Setsuna is SUCH a nice lady, Usagi. You should meet her more often."
<Sailor_Moon> "And it... and you're... and I..." Usagi makes the only response she considers appropriate to the situation. Her eyes roll back in her head and she falls back to the floor with a thump.
> "Oh dear," Ikkuko, the Sailor of Neptune, sighs. "I'll have to have Sailor Uranus help me move her. GET OVER HERE, KENJI!"
> -Fin.

Comments - Sailor Neptune died before Metallia in this continuity, and wasn't reincarnated for that reason. Therefore, Neptune may be 'Senshiless', and this runs with the idea.

[Anastasia]

This one came from a couple of sources. If you're a trivia buff, you can probably identify them.

The Cardian is a modified version of the driod in R that tried to kill Usagi in a coma.

* Sailor_Anastasia changes topic to 'Usagi faces her destiny! Good luck, rabbit-chan!'
> ---
> Usagi walks along, another fun day of school over with.
> If it wasn't for the freak late March cold front and snowstorm, it would be just great. As is, Usagi is bundled up and making her way home...
* Usagi-chan wonders what on EARTH got into Miss H today... orange blouse and a turquoise skirt? Ugh...
> "Usagi."
* Usagi-chan looks up at the sound of her name. "Hmm?"
> You see no one, though, except a few distant students braving the elements to get home as well. In this storm, no one else could have said that...
> ...at least at that distance.
* Usagi-chan glances around for a moment, puzzled... but then shrugs and continues on her way. 'Mom better have some cocoa ready when I get home...
<Usagi-chan> '
> "Usagi...Usagi..." The voice echos again, distant and oddly genderless.
* Usagi-chan frowns as she looks around for the source of the voice. "Who's calling me?"
> You see no apparant source for the voice, strangely. "Usagi...please...."
<Usagi-chan> "Who... where are you?" Usagi stops, wrapping her arms around her to keep out the cold. "What do you want?"
> "Usagi....Serenity....come home..."
<Usagi-chan> "Come... home?" Usagi looks puzzled, then breaks into a run as she fights the chill wind on the way to her own home.
> Usagi runs, the cold wind picking up and whipping snow about as she does so. The snowfall becomes a blinding blizzard within a block, sealing Usagi in a white mist of snow and ice. "Come home...Princess..."
<Usagi-chan> The voice chills Usagi even more than the blizzard does. Seeing as she can't see anyone else, she assumes that the same is true for anyone seeing her. Quickly, she changes into the form of Serenity and teleports to the Moon Palace's great hall.
* Usagi-chan is now known as Serenity-hime
> Light blinds Serenity for a moment. "I said it's time to get up, Princess," Princess Rei's cocky grin is the first thing you see in your bedroom, the one that is intact, yet hasn't been for thousands of years.
* Serenity-hime sits up with a start. "Rei?" Serenity looks over at the raven-haired princess with a puzzled expression.
> "Woah, fiesty today," she grins. Your room is how you remember it from the past, down to the scent of lilacs and moon lilies.
* Serenity-hime puts one hand to her forehead, rubbing it gently. "What... where... how?" She glances around at the room once again.
> The room is exactly how you remember it...it can't be, even with your best restorative attempts, parts were missing..."Nervous dreams?" Rei asks, suddenly understanding. The nightgown clad Princess goes over and sits next to you, wrapping a warm arm around your shoulders. "Relax, My Queen. Your coronation will go perfectly. I promised, didn't I?"
* Serenity-hime looks over at Rei, still wearing that same puzzled expression. "...a dream?"
> "You were just asleep, so I assume you were dreaming. Unless you were doing something else," she grins, with a lusty element that is unfamiliar to you. She leans forward, laying a light kiss on your lips. "If that's what you want, we still have all morning..."
> Rei whispers sexily as she leans back from the kiss, her face enticing...
* Serenity-hime still seems a bit stunned as Rei kisses her. "But... it was so REAL - wait, coronation? What coronation?"
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> She blinks, her sexy facial expression lost. "Your coronation to become the Queen, of course," Princess Rei says. Frowning, she feels your forehead. "No fever...do you feel alright, Ser-chan?"
<Serenity-hime> "Ser-chan?" Serenity seems more puzzled than ever. "But... why am I being crowned? Who's doing it?"
> "Queen Serenity, soon to become Princess Serenity again," Rei responds, more and more puzzled. Your wife hmms a moment, with concern. "No, I think I will call the healer. You look rather pale, beloved."
<Serenity-hime> "Wait... beloved?" Serenity's eyes go wide, seeming most confused at all at that. "I think I need to lie back down..."
> "Huh?" she says, losing all her grace at that one. "Of COURSE beloved," she says, sparks of the Rei you were talking to yesterday coming to the surface. "Unless the grand marriage ceremony and every night since then were just an act!" Yep, the fiesty temper of Temple Girl Rei has appeared.
<Serenity-hime> "Marriage ceremony?" Serenity splutters. "When in the world did THAT happen? I don't remember ANYTHING like that!"
> Rei's face shows a moment of anger, but them she composes herself. "I see. I'd best get old Hilaster right now, then." Withoug another word, she quickly gets up and steps outside a moment, talking to someone just out of view. When you think of it, Hilaster is the name of the old court healer mage....
* Serenity-hime goes wide-eyed as the pieces slowly fall into place. "It can't be..." she whispers quietly. She scrambles out of bed quickly, heading for the door to her chamber.
> "..And make it double time," Rei says to someone outside. As you approach, Rei turns and takes in your nightgown clad figure. "Ser-chan?"
<Serenity-hime> "What... what year is this?" Serenity asks, pale-faced.
> Rei looks at you with clear shock. "Make that triple time, and GO," she says with force to someone outside. The sound of a man running in armor is heard...the armored guards and general service men that were stationed outside your room, the Lunar Royal Guard? "It's year 1052," Rei replies. Year 1047 was when Metallia came...
> Walking up to you, Rei takes your hand tenderly and begins to lead you back to your bed. "Let's go lay down, Serenity," she says softly, soft concern and worry present.
<Serenity-hime> "1052..." Serenity shakes her head. "I know this is going to sound utterly crazy, although I probably already DO sound crazy, but what happened five years ago?"
> Rei stops after a few steps when she hears that. "Five years ago? You mean the Metallia incident?" her voice is now totall confused, and her eyes are reflecting a fair bit of confusion now.
* Serenity-hime nods quickly. "Then Metallia did invade? What happened?" Her voice is desperate.
> "Queen Serenity invoked the power of the Silver Crystal to purify and destory the masses of the new Dark Kingdom, and to once again secure peace for our solar system," Rei begins to lead you back to bed, shaking her head.
* Serenity-hime sits down on the bed, shaking her head. "But that's..." She strains her memory. "I could have sworn..."
> "Sworn what," she asks. Rei is holding your hand tightly now even when the both of you sit on the royal bed.
<Serenity-hime> "That... that dream I had." Serenity's voice is shaking slightly. "Metallia destroyed the Moon Kingdom in the... dream."
> "She did..." Rei echos softly. "What a nightmare that must have been," she says soothingly. She gets up a moment and positions herself behind you. A second later she is starting a backrub which feels quite good - and is getting a touch close to special areas. "What else did you dream about?"
* Serenity-hime continues slowly, relaxing a bit under Rei's ministrations. "I... the entire court was killed, but Mother managed to send us to be reborn in the future with the ginzuishou. I can remember... an entire life, on Earth, after I was reborn."
> Rei stops her backrub, as if stunned. Indeed, she doesn't reply at first. "You said..the future? The Earth?"
* Serenity-hime nods slowly. "I was actually a senshi myself - the leader of the senshi, to be honest - and we managed to stop the Dark Kingdom's invasion of Earth then, in the future."
> "I see," she says again, like she can't manage any other response than that. Her voice is still rather shocked by all this. "You do remember what happened after the defeat of Metallia, right?"
* Serenity-hime shakes her head. "Nothing... the last thing I can remember of... of this time, before the invasion, was a grand ball to celebrate Endymion's arrival on the Moon."
> "Endymion," she says it like a curse, with surprising venom. "Let's go outside, Princess," she says suddenly, waving her hand towards the balcony outside.
* Serenity-hime nods numbly, standing and walking towards the balcony on autopilot more than from any conscious decision.
> Once outside, you are taken in by the nearly perfect vista. The Palace of the Moon spreads out below you, elegance unseen ever since the fall of the Moon Kingdom so long ago. It's nearly perfect due to one thing in the sky. The Earth, which was a blue jewel in the lunar skyscape, is now a pockmarked and blackened orb, with no signs of life on it. Rei points to it, even that motion seems full of rage. "The Earth...the planet that spawned Metallia...and Endymion, the Prince who stood by Beryl and shattered your very heart? That's what you dreamed of?
> "
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> "The Earth...the planet that spawned Metallia...and Endymion, the Prince who stood by Beryl and shattered your very heart? That's what you dreamed of?
* Serenity-hime gapes at the blighted Earth in shock. "What... what happened? Endymion didn't stand by Beryl - he died defending me, at least in my dream!"
> "Hah," Rei says. "Endymion was the consort of Beryl herself, the subleader of the invasion. He lead Earth's forces to the Dark Kingdom, and caused an entire PLANET to be lost!"
> Her voice is rage filled, and she shakes lightly, as if in a towering rage. "Do you remember the nights you sobbed on my shoulder all night after he betrayed you, or the months you spend locked up in you room?"
> *spent
* Serenity-hime covers her mouth at the sight of the destroyed planet, shaking her head as tears fill her eyes. "It can't be right... I don't remember any of that!"
> Again, her temper looks to be overcoming her, but again she takes a deep breath and composes herself. "It's what happened, Serenity. It's why the Earth is a wasteland, why Endymion is dead and gone...and why we fell in love and were married," she says the last part softly to you.
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* Serenity-hime simply stares at the once-blue planet, seemingly transfixed by the scarred orb in the sky. "I had a family... friends... I lived there for fourteen years, Rei..." She turns a tear-streaked face to the Martian princess.
> Rei sighs. "Princess. Let's go back and wait for Hilaster," she says. "Whatever this is, it has gripped you strongly."
* Serenity-hime allows Rei to take her back into the bedroom, the tears flowing down her face freely. Ikkuko and Kenji, Shingo, Naru, Umino, even Miss H - none of them would ever exist, now.
> As she guides you back to your bed, a white bearded, hairy old man enters. His blue robes annouce him as a medical mage. Hilaster's apperance spawns memories for you, from the first checkup you remember when you were 3 to just before the fall of the Kingdom. "You summoned, Princess Consort?"
* Serenity-hime glances up at the old man in surprise... her last memory of this man is thousands of years distant, in her own memories at least.
> Rei nods gravely. "Yes. When she awoke this morning, Princess Serenity showed confusion and claimed memories of a different time and life. Further, she claimed not to remember the last five years."
> The old man nods, turning his wise blue eyes at Serenity. "Princess, could you describe in detail what you feel and what has happened?"
> Rei sits back down after she speaks, right next to Serenity.
<Serenity-hime> "How do I feel? Really, really confused..." Serenity sighs, and relates the same tale to the old healer that she's told to Rei over the course of the morning.
> Hilather listens quietly during the tale. "That's quite a story, Princess," he notes. "Let's start at the obvious." He raises his hand, whispering a few arcane words. A soft light glows around Serenity for a moment, matched in the doctor's eyes. You remember this as a medical spell that allows the caster to inspect the other's aura and spiritual waves for disruption or possession.
* Serenity-hime waits patiently as the doctor examines her, hoping he can shed some light on what in the world has happened to her.
> He waits a moment, then sighs. "Would you take off your nightgown, Princess? I'd like to get this going, by your leave."
> The secondary aspect of this spell floats into your mind...down to the incident when you were five. Serenity dashed off in the middle for outside, totally naked...
* Serenity-hime blushes, but nods and removes her nightgown. She's been examined enough by the old man to know that she can trust him.
> He inspects Serenity with the eye of one trained for detail, showing no interest in her bountiful assets. They've grown nicely since your days in Juuban, you note.
* Serenity-hime takes in her added charms with a slight start, but recovers remarkably well.
> "Well," he says after perhaps three minutes, "Your aura is perfectly intact, and I sense no ripples, outside interference or possessions."
* Serenity-hime nods, quickly replacing her nightgown. "Then do you have any idea what's happened to me?"
> "I'm afraid not at this time," he sighs. "It it was magical, it was of a level that I've never heard of short of the Silver Crystal. Nothing else could hide from such a rigorous inspection."
<Serenity-hime> "Who has the Crystal now? Does Mother still have it?"
> "You have no idea, doctor," Rei asks, sighing.
> "Of course, for a few hours yet," he replies, shrugging. "The coronatin is in five hours or so. And I'm afraid I do not have any clue to what this is at the current time."
* Serenity-hime rests her head in her hands. "What am I supposed to DO? I don't even KNOW what's real and what's a dream anymore..."
> "But you must go through with the coronation," Rei insists suddenly. "The Silver Crystal must be transfered as planned, otherwise..."
<Serenity-hime> "Otherwise...?" Serenity looks up, concerned.
> "Yes," the old man agrees. "That would be the priority."
> "The chance will be lost and we must wait another ten years," Rei says.
* Serenity-hime sighs. "I guess I'll have to go through with it then... what is it that I have to do?" Serenity looks rather lost.
> "The ceremony will take you through it, but the effect is that you take the Crystal and bear it now, taking over from the previous Queen." Rei explains.
* Serenity-hime nods slowly. On a whim, she tries to flip the mental 'switch' that would allow her to return to her form as Usagi Tsukino, just to see if it still works.
> To your surprise, nothing at all happens.
> If anything, it makes you feel sleepy for a moment...
* Serenity-hime yawns, blinking rapidly. "That was odd..."
> "Hm," Hilaster and Rei ask at once.
* Serenity-hime tries it again, just to see if it still makes her sleepy.
> Doing so again, you find yourself yawning and blinking in sleepiness, like it's time to go to bed...
<Serenity-hime> "Wow, that really makes me sleepy..." Serenity says around a yawn. "Any chance of a nap before the coronation?"
> "No," Rei says. "We must get ready for the coronation," Rei declares this firmly.
* Serenity-hime tries to stand up, finding it rather difficult with the wave of somnolence that's just come over her. "Can't believe how tired that made me..."
> "C'mon, Serenity," Rei says, getting up and giving you a hand up. "I'm sure a hot bath will help wake you."
* Serenity-hime allows Rei to help her up and into the bathroom. "I'm sorry about all of this, Rei-chan... I wish I knew what was going on."
> You go out from your bedroom and through your sitting room into the bathroom. The large, in ground tub is steaming with warm water. Rei sheds her nightgown without a thought, heading into the water. It's easy to see that Rei's matured in the same areas you have..."It's fine," she says as she gets in and sits down. "As long as the coronation goes without a hitch, we'll have plenty of time to sort this out."
* Serenity-hime also disrobes without too many qualms, her years in Japan having calmed her towards the idea of public bathing - at least with members of the same sex, at least. She climbs into the large tub opposite Rei, sighing a bit at the feel of the hot water.
> Rei gets up a moment, coming over to sit right next to you and cuddle a bit. She does it like it's a familiar thing...."Feeling relaxed yet, Ser-chan," she asks with a smile.
* Serenity-hime looks at Rei a bit nervously, wondering why the princess would be so close - and then remembers her words from earlier. "Are... are we really married, Rei?" she asks hesitantly.
> "Yes," she smiles. "As we like to prove most nights," she gets a bit closer, her warm body against yours.
* Serenity-hime fidgets slightly... she enjoys the feel of Rei's body against her own, but - well, she'd never even IMAGINED being... like THAT with Rei. "I don't remember any of it..." she says in a small voice, huddling down a bit in the water.
> "Heh," she says, her hands working over your stomach and lower breast. "You're tense...maybe a friendly reminder is order," her smile is quite lecherous, you note. "We still have a bit of free time before the coronation..."
* Serenity-hime catches Rei's hand in her own, wondering how to say this without offending the quick-tempered woman. "Rei, I... I don't know if I can - at least not right now. I'm just... everything's so confused right now..." Tears begin to leak from her eyes again, falling into the bath.
> To your surprise, she smiles softly and gently. "I can see that. I want to just...just relax, and I'll make you unwind, Ser-chan," she says, with real emotion in her voice. "Just like when you were so sad after Endymion...all you have to do is relax...It helped you then, right?"
<Serenity-hime> "I... I can do that much." She lets out a shuddering sigh, releasing Rei's hand as she does so. "Why did this have to happen, Rei-chan?"
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> Rei leans up, kissing Serenity right on the cresent moon spot on her forehead and then hugs her gently. "I don't know, but you'll be fine," she whispers. "Once the coronation is over, it'll all be fine..."
* Serenity-hime collapses into Rei's embrace, letting the older princess soothe her fears with her closeness and her gentle words.
> Rei lets her hand work over your bare back, going in comforting circles and patters. Her hands seem to get every odd nook and fold of your back, like familiar territory. "It's alright, Ser-chan. I've always been here for you..."
* Serenity-hime puts her arms around Rei slowly, then gives a short laugh. "This sounds almost like something that happened in my dream, if it WAS a dream. I was... I turned Endymion down when he wanted to be with me, and you were the one to comfort me then too, the same way I did for you before."
> "It's because I've always been there for you, and I alwasy will be...Princess...My love..." Rei says, continuting to hold you...
> ---
> After the bath, the royal maids come in and fit you in your gown, pretty much what you wear as the Princess normally. The rest of the preparations take a few hours, getting your hair ready and such. You have two sleepy attacks during this, each lasting a few minutes before fading.
* Serenity-hime smiles at Rei as her servants help her prepare. "This all seems so weird... I'm used to doing everything for myself. It feels kind of funny to have someone else helping me get dressed and do my hair..."
> "I guess," Rei says as her own attendants work on her. "It's something we go through most days, though."
<Serenity-hime> "I can still remember some of it, from before Metallia's time. It's just that to me, that's so unbelievably long ago..."
> "Well, don't worry," Rei assures you. "After the coronation, I'm sure everything will be perfect." A few of the maids nod in silent agreement to Rei's words.
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<Serenity-hime> "I hope you're right..." Serenity sighs.
> As she speaks, another wave of tiredness hits Serenity...
> It's almost like you want to fall asleep and sleep and sleep and sleep...
* Serenity-hime almost collapses from the wave of exhaustion, stumbling to her hands and knees. "So... tired..." she shakes her head, fighting to keep her eyes open.
> The maids surround you, as does the hald dressed Rei. "Are you alright, Princess?"
> *half
* Serenity-hime waves them back as the feeling slowly passes. "I'm... okay, just felt so sleepy for a second." She slowly gets back to her feet, giving the group of women a smile.
> The rest of the clothing goes without incident. You are then escorted through the wonderful, beautiful palace, memories hitting you at a rate that is stunning. A past life, brought again to fruition?
* Serenity-hime can't hide an almost beatific smile as the memories flood over her, so many wonderful recollections of times that to her are long since past.
> As you get to the antechamber that leads to the throne room, where you will wait until the time..."Usagi...." Makoto cries, a distant whisper in the wind.
* Serenity-hime glances around, a concerned look on her face. "Mako-chan?" she says quietly.
> "Serenity," Rei asks, glancing back when she hears you words. "Is something the matter?"
<Serenity-hime> "I thought I heard someone calling... my name." Serenity says slowly, realizing that she'd heard Makoto call her Usagi.
> Rei sighs. "Then let's hurry and get the coronation over with. We can sort things out and rest later," for some reason, the word rest causes a minor feeling of sleepiness, but nothing overwhelming.
* Serenity-hime nods uncertainly, waiting for her announcement and cue to enter.
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> As Serenity waits..."Usagi..." Ami's voice is another phantom, just heard at the edge of your aural perception.
* Serenity-hime puts one hand to her head, concentrating on the voice. "...Ami?"
> You hear nothing further. Rei looks over at you, clearly concerned. "Ser-chan?
> "
* Serenity-hime snaps out of her reverie at the sound of Rei's voice, looking somewhat startled. "I'm okay, Rei-chan, really."
> Rei nods. Shortly after...
> "It's time, Serenity," Rei says, getting up. "Are you ready to become the Queen?"
* Serenity-hime feels her heart flutter at the word, but nods slowly. "Ready as I'll ever be." She stands as well, one hand to her breast to calm her heart.
> Rei links her arm in yours, smiling. "It's time for your final destiny, Serenity," she says brightly. "Let's get started."
* Serenity-hime takes a deep breath, giving Rei the best smile she can manage.
> Walking into the throne room, you hear the page annoucing.."Make way for the Princess of the Moon, Serenity! Make way for the future Queen, the new bearer of the Silver Crystal!" Throngs of people are about, only parted to make a path between yourself and the throne. The Princesses of the planets are at the throne, while your mother sits on the throne, the Crystal floating just above her lap.
> (Cont)
> Every eye is watching you...the sense of your duty, your destiny is projected - To take the Crystal and become the Queen. To give yourself totally to the Kingdom, to lead the solar system...
> Looking onward at the Crystal, you find another wave of exhaustion to hit you, almost as bad as the last.
> Even then...you can't seem to quite make out the Crystal. It's like a shining mote of light rather than a solid object...
* Serenity-hime stumbles as the exhaustion hits her, but manages to remain standing, her determination keeping her upright more than anything. Her eyes are locked on the Crystal that she hasn't seen in several months, and certainly never glowing like THAT.
> As you take another step forward, "Usagi...don't...." Luna calls at the very edge of your awareness, poking through the sleepiness.
> The Crystal still defies your efforts to truly see it, no more than a light beyond compare.
* Serenity-hime 's expression falters for a moment as she hears her advisor's voice. "Luna?" she murmurs, too softly for anyone else to hear.
> Looking, you can see that Luna, Artemis, Nian and a few other Mau are about at the throne, but she's too far away to have spoken...
> Even as you look, the Crystal seems to draw you, sleepiness and all.
* Serenity-hime comes to a halt in front of the Queen, her focus still on trying to see the ginzuishou past the glow surrounding it. Her brow is furrowed with concentration as she stares at it.
> The glow will not recede to your eyes..."Princess Serenity," the Queen starts. "It is my solemn duty...Usagi, it can't b...and pass on the burden of rulership to you," she smiles gently, with Rei's ghostly, distant voice cutting into the Queen's speech.
* Serenity-hime closes her eyes, putting a hand to her head and concentrating on the real(?) Rei's voice. "Something... isn't right..." she murmurs.
> "It's time," the Queen says. "Take the Crystal and your destiny, my daughter. It's time for your birthright to be taken!" The Crystal still glows, sleepy yet alluring beyond words.
> "Usagi..." Makoto murmurs at the very prepice of your awareness, yet again.
* Serenity-hime simply stares at the Crystal in the Queen's lap, trying to figure out what is going on... the voices, and the light of the crystal, and the dizzy spells... something just doesn't seem to fit.
> "Serenity, take it," The queen urges, as the royal court murmurs in agreement. So tired...but the Crystal is there...you have to take it, right?
<Serenity-hime> "Why...?" Serenity murmurs.
> "It's your destiny, your birthright," Queen Serenity insists. "Hurry, take it before it's too late and we must wait again!"
> "...Usagi...Oh God...It can't en...."
* Serenity-hime shakes her head, racking her brain to remember anything about a ceremony to transfer the Crystal... she was just supposed to get it when the Queen thought she was ready for it, wasn't she?
> It's not clear in your sleepy state..."Please! Serenity, my daughter! Hurry!"
> "No! No!" Rei wails in despair. "Not after every..."
> Rei's voice is just again heard, through the ether of distantce.
* Serenity-hime shakes her head. "...Rei?" she says hoarsely. "What's wrong?"
> The Rei here merely shakes her head. "Hurry and take the Crystal!"
* Serenity-hime stretches out a shaking hand towards the crystal, slowly.
> It seems to draw you...just a little more and it's in your hands. Even through your daze a sense of right ness fills you as you get closer...
* Serenity-hime begins to close her hand over the crystal, not quite touching it yet.
> You feel an almost hypnotic pull to take it...the sense of well being and happiness grows greater as you hand is so close to it. Your destiny is an inch away...
> "U..s...i...."
* Serenity-hime can feel herself being drawn to the crystal... and then snatches her hand away taking a quick step back. "No... no, this isn't right!" she shouts.
> "What," The Queen asks. "It's pefectly right," she says gently. "It's time, Serenity. Time to go."
* Serenity-hime takes another step away from the Queen. "No, I'm not going anywhere!"
> The queen sighs. AS she does so, the palace and everything but her and you fade away into nothingness. "Please, Serenity. It's time for you. Don't struggle any more, please." her voice is tired and sad.
* Serenity-hime shakes her head, never taking her eyes off the queen. "What is it you want from me?"
> "For you to go quietly," she sighs, "And not linger as I did for so long. Please, Serenity...don't you remember the battle today?" she asks. AS she does so, the images of battling a Cardian gone berserk come to mind, then the blast of energy as you vaporized it, but you were too close...
<Serenity-hime> The color drains from Serenity's face. "No..."
> Serenity smiles, a gentle and sad smile indeed. "I'm afraid so," she murmurs. "It happens to everyone, that day was just when it was your turn," she says in the same sad voice. "If it will help, I'll show you what happened..."
<Serenity-hime> "But... I can still hear them, hear all my friends!" Serenity shakes her head. "I can't be dead!"
> Queen Serenity shakes her head. "Your will and spirit want to linger in the material world even after your body fails. Mine did for so long, my daughter. You hear them because of that...when you let go, you'll be able to move on from that. Staying will only torture with the echos of your finished life."
> She extends one softly glowing, translucent hand to you. "Please...Serenity. Take my hand, I'll show you the way so you don't have to linger like I did."
<Serenity-hime> "No! There's got to be a way... I can go back, I know I can!" Serenity begins to run around in the darkness, avoiding the queen.
> Usagi runs in the black abyss, fleeing away from the Queen. "Please, don't, Serenity," her voice calls from behind as you run. "That's the way to despair and obsession!"
> As you flee, the abyss gets a bit brighter, however.
* Serenity-hime continues to head away from the Queen. "You're wrong, Mother... There's always hope as long as I don't give up!" Serenity puts on an extra burst of speed, her dress trailing out behind her as she runs.
> To your surprise...as you run, you hear the Queen scream behind you in pain. The voice, however, is that of the monster you just battled! Turning, you see the image of Serenity flicking with that of the winged, angel like Cardian that you battled and died(?) to.
<Serenity-hime> "What in the world...?" Usagi turns to face the creature, the princess' guise falling away from her as she does so.
* Serenity-hime is now known as Usagi-chan
> "Damn you, Sailor Moon," it howls, clutching it's head in pain. "Your body is to be mine!" it wails. "Begone! No one can defeat my magic like that! No one!"
* Usagi-chan turns and runs once again, heading in the direction of the steadily growing light.
> "No.......NO....I will not allow it!" It shrieks. With a shimmer, it appears in front of you, a dark angel shilloeted by the light behind it. "Then I will rend your soul here and now!"
> "You rejected your greatest fantasy, so I will send you the pit of hell that houses those of a slain soul!"
* Usagi-chan reacts quickly, backflipping away from the apparition as she transforms into the Soldier of Love and Justice, Sailor Moon!
* Usagi-chan is now known as Sailor_Moon
> "Sailor Moon! Usagi Tsukino! Princess Serenity!" The angelic creature shouts. "I have seen all of your spirit! You cannot triumph against me!"
> But, underneath his cry...is the sounds of your friends, sobbing. This heartbreaking sound makes his shouted words seem...meaningless.
<Sailor_Moon> "I haven't seen yours, but I know you aren't going to beat me! I'm Sailor Moon, the champion of Love and Justice! And for playing around with my dreams, you're moondust!"
> "Prepare yourself," it calls. "Eternal Rest!" It intones, a beam of pure black energy coming from it's chest!
* Ebiris is now known as Rei-chan
* Sailor_Anastasia sets mode: +o Rei-chan
* Sailor_Moon dives to the side, the beam narrowly missing her! The Lunar Rod appears in her hand, and with a cry she sends her own wave of energy flying at the cardian. "Moon Princess Hallation!"
> As Sailor Moon's attack flies forth, the wails and cries of the Senshi echo suddenly, amplifying the blast! The vile monster is consumed, reduced to dust!
* Sailor_Moon grins as the creature is vaporized. Letting the scepter slip back into storage, Moon resumes her dash towards the light, much faster now that her movement is unimpeded by her dress.
> Floating forward, the brilliant light consumes Usagi, blinding her as the world returns...
> And in the void, the image of Queen Serenity appears again. Her face is a mixture of pride and longing, before vanishing again with a smile.
> ---
> As Usagi once again regains awareness, the sounds of sobbing and grief filled wails fills your ears.
* Sailor_Moon is now known as Usagi-chan
* Usagi-chan opens her eyes slowly, squinting at the sunlight hitting her in the face. "What's.... everyone crying about?" she says slowly, trying to regain her senses.
> You see Ami and Makoto whip around as one, teary faces lighting up the moment they hear your voice. "USAGI!"
<Rei-chan> "Usagi!" Rei suddenly cries, noticing the movement in the formerly limp and pallid body in her arms. "You're back, thank God!" she sobs, desperately clutching the blonde as if scared she'll slip away.
> Ami and Makoto crowd around as well, getting close to Sailor Moon. "Oh Usagi!" Makoto cries. "We thought you were dead!?
> "
<Usagi-chan> "Yeah... I'm back." Usagi slowly slips her arms around the miko. "Takes more than some stupid cardian to get rid of Sailor Moon." She smiles weakly.
<Rei-chan> "You were so cold..." Rei sniffles quietly, "I thought I'd lost you..."
> "But..you were gone for over an hour," Ami says. "Rei even said you were getting cold!" The Senshi of Mercury nods amid her tears.
<Usagi-chan> "I'm still here, Rei-chan." Usagi says quietly, still embracing Rei. "It'll be okay, I'm here." She smooths her hands over Rei's back slowly, trying to ease the miko's pain.
* Rei-chan nods. "I was just... there wasn't anything I could do, and you just seemed to be slipping away..." she burbles, still trying to get a hold of herself. "It was awful..."
<Usagi-chan> "I could still hear you, Rei... if it wasn't for you, I don't think I would have come back. I was so close..." Usagi shakes her head, remembering how close she had come to taking the 'crystal'.
<Rei-chan> "Back?" Rei looks at Usagi with a confused expression, her eyes still wet. "What do you remember?"
* Usagi-chan gives Rei a gentle smile. "I remember... a lot of things." She focuses on the miko and thinks. 'And I think you and I need to have a long talk, really soon.' She reaches up and wipes the tear tracks from Rei's cheeks with her thumb. "You don't need to cry anymore, Rei-chan."
* Rei-chan nods, sniffing. "Talk about what?" she asks, not really paying attention to whether Usagi is talking aloud or just broadcasting her thoughts.
* Usagi-chan glances over at Makoto and Ami for a moment. "About dreams, Rei-chan."
<Rei-chan> "I don't understand," Rei admits before squeezing Usagi in her embrace once more, "I'm just glad you're back. I don't know what I'd have done if..." she trails off, sniffing again.
* Usagi-chan squeezes back with a smile. "I don't know what I'd do without you either, Rei-chan."

[Halbarad]

Just a little something Eb and I were doing to pass the time while Dune was taking his break this week. Usagi wakes up in the Silver Millenium, and chaos ensues. >_>

--------
[13:45] <Ebiris> After a peaceful night's sleep, dreaming of consuming vast quantities of ice cream and chocolate and other confectionaries, Usagi Tsukino wakes up to find herself in a most unusual predicament. Instead of her familiar bed, she finds herself laying on soft grass outside, between a tall slate gray wall and a large collection of various flowering bushes.
[13:46] <Ebiris> She can hear the sound of someone humming on the other side of the bushes, moving around slightly but remaining in the same general vicinity.
[13:46] * Usagi-chan wakes up slowly as usual, her unusual surroundings taking a few moments to register... but when they do, she sits bolt upright in shock. "What the... what's going on?"
[13:48] <Ebiris> The humming stops. "What's that?" a familiar voice calls from the other side of the bushes. "Who's there?" You can see a gap in the bushes about 5 metres away that you could probably fit through.
[13:49] * Usagi-chan quickly crawls over to the gap, looking through it to see if she can figure out who the person on the other side is.
[13:50] <Ebiris> The bushes are pretty thick, and the person is further down. You'd have to crawl out enough to stick your head out to see them. "Hello?" the voice tries again.
[13:51] * Usagi-chan sighs and crawls through the gap in the bushes, sticking her head through the other side cautiously. "Hold on, just a minute..."
[13:52] <Ebiris> "What? Oh, my!" the person who you can now see as Sailor Jupiter gasps. "Princess, what are you doing in there?" she rushes over and offers you a hand up.
[13:53] * Usagi-chan raises an eyebrow. "Since when do you call me Princess, Mako-chan? And why are you in your uniform?" Usagi lets the taller girl help her out of the hedge and to her feet.
[13:55] <Ebiris> "Well, I normally call you Princess, but just Serenity is fine if you want," Jupiter says, sounding a tad confused. "And why wouldn't I be in my uniform?" she peers at your own pink pajamas. "Speaking of that, why are you dressed like that?"
[13:57] * Usagi-chan gives the Senshi of Lightning a puzzled glance. "Um... because I was asleep? Where am I, anyway? All I remember was going to bed and waking up here."
[14:00] <Ebiris> Jupiter scratches her head. "You're in the palace gardens, Serenity. Why would you end up here if you went to bed?" she mulls it over for a second, "You don't normally sleepwalk, and it is quite a distance from your chambers, really..." As Jupiter thinks things over, you can see the Palace of the Moon Kingdom in all it's original splendour rising up above you, and past that the stars and Earth hang in the sky.
[14:01] <Usagi-chan> "Palace... gardens..." Usagi's mouth drops open as the realization hits her... and a glance up at the Earth hanging low on the horizon confirms it. "Oh... oh my god..." The blonde gapes, clearly in shock.
[14:02] <Ebiris> "Unless someone is playing some sort of prank on..." Jupiter trails off her musing as she notices your state. "Princess, what's wrong?" she takes you by the shoulders and gives you a worried look.
[14:03] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "No... this can't be real, I must still be dreaming!" She pinches her arm, elicting a yelp of pain. "It's not a dream..."
[14:05] <Ebiris> "No, not a dream," Jupiter shakes her head. "Why would you be thinking that, anyway?" She looks around, wondering what sort of outlandish sight could have prompted her Princess to think she was dreaming.
[14:06] * Usagi-chan quickly turns her gaze to the green-suited senshi. "Where's Mother?" she asks, her voice urgent.
[14:09] <Ebiris> "I expect she's holding Court right now," Jupiter says, before blinking in alarm. "And you're supposed to be having lessons with Onizuka-sensei!" She takes hold of your wrist and starts dragging you towards the palace, "Come on, if we hurry you won't be so late!"
[14:09] <Usagi-chan> "What? But..." Usagi's protests are cut off as Jupiter quickly hustles her into the palace.
[14:11] <Ebiris> You attract a few odd stares from various servants as you briskly walk through the corridors of the palace, trying to match Jupiter's pace.
[14:13] <Usagi-chan> "Mako-chan, slow DOWN! I can't keep up with you!" Usagi tries to pull her hand out of Jupiter's grip with little success. "And I sure can't show up to class in my pajamas!"
[14:14] <Ebiris> Makoto slows to a halt and turns to look at you. "You're already late, there's no time for you to stop by your chambers for clothes. You'll just have to magic something up."
[14:23] <Usagi-chan> "Magic..." Usagi splutters for a moment, then sighs. "I can give it a try." She says somewhat unhappily, transforming to what she still thinks of as the form of Serenity.
[14:23] * Usagi-chan is now known as Serenity-hime
[14:26] <Ebiris> Makoto frowns very slightly, but nods anyway. "Okay, well, I suppose you can find the rest of the way to class yourself," she gives you a somewhat sheepish grin, "Sorry for dragging you along like that. I'll see you later, Serenity," she waves, starting to walk at a more relaxed pace back the way you had just came.
[14:27] * Serenity-hime continues on at a far more sedate pace, still dumbfounded at the realization. This was the old Moon Kingdom - there was no other reasonable explanation that she could think of, at least. 'But how did I get here?' she wonders to herself.
[15:10] <Ebiris> You continue making your way through the palace, finding your memories to be accurate enough as you stop outside the room where you so often had lessons with Sailor Mercury and a few other teachers.
[15:12] * Serenity-hime shakes her head slightly and heads into the room, still somewhat awed by seeing the palace in all its splendor once again.
[15:16] <Ebiris> Inside the room is a blackboard covered with equations of some sort, and two desks. One desk is your own, and is currently unoccupied. The other is the teacher's, and is occupied by a young man with short bleached blonde hair. He is sitting on the desk with his feet on the chair and reading what looks to be a pornographic magazine.
[15:16] <Ebiris> As you enter, he quickly hides the magazine and leaps off the desk, landing right in front of you and violating your personal space quite badly. "Princess Serenity," he growls.
[15:17] * Serenity-hime frowns at the man, especially considering his choice of reading material. "Who are you, and what are you doing here?" she asks abruptly.
[15:21] <Ebiris> "What?" he draws back, no longer seeming quite so threatening, but now rather confused. "I'm your sensei!" he exclaims, stepping over to the blackboard and wiping off the equations. "Great," he writes a large G, "Teacher," a T, "Onizuka!" an O. He spins to face you, posing proudly, "GTO!"
[15:21] <Ebiris> You can vaguely remember this man as one of your teachers from your past life. Though no one would ever explain exactly how he got the job, the best you got was some mumbled comment from Mercury regarding a Suplex.
[15:21] <Ebiris> "And you are late!" he adds, pointing accusingly at you.
[15:22] * Serenity-hime rubs her temples with one hand. She can just barely remember this man, but something tells her that it's going to be a long, long morning. "I... had a rough night." she mumbles.
[15:27] <Ebiris> "Oh?" he gives you a curious and somewhat sympathetic look, changing attitudes rather quickly. "Want to talk about it?" he gestures to your desk, dragging a chair over to the front of it and spinning it back to front as he sits down, leaning forward with his elbows over the backrest.
[15:34] <Serenity-hime> "It's... I..." Usagi sighs. "I have no idea where I'd even start, and you probably wouldn't believe most of it anyway." The princess sits down at the desk heavily.
[15:38] <Ebiris> "If you're sure," Onizuka says, giving you a dubious look. He stands up and begins the lesson. It basically consists of him reciting parables and various moral dilemmas and asking your interpretations on them. It isn't very hard, and the lesson continues simply enough for the next half hour.
[15:40] * Serenity-hime does her best as she goes through the lesson, thankful that the work isn't too rough. It HAD been a long time since she'd had lessons on the Moon, after all - unless she counted her studies of the Lunar language, which were coming in quite handy right now.
[15:40] <Ebiris> The door suddenly bursts open with Sailors Jupiter and Mars spilling into the room. "See! I told you she was here!" Jupiter yells at Mars, who has the good grace to look embarassed.
[15:41] <Serenity-hime> "...Huh? What's going on?" Usagi looks up at the sudden outburst.
[15:41] <Ebiris> "What's going on?" Onizuka echoes your statement, looking over at the two senshi.
[15:42] <Ebiris> "Nothing," Jupiter waves her hands in a placating gesture, blushing a fair bit. "Sailor Mars was just a little confused."
[15:42] <Serenity-hime> "It seems to be a morning for that." Usagi mutters to herself. "What about?" she asks the pair.
[15:43] <Ebiris> "But I could have sworn..." Mars huffs and sighs, giving you and Onizuka a weak grin. "Sorry for bothering you, I guess I was mistaken after all," she says, quickly retreating from the room with Jupiter and shutting the door. You can faintly hear Jupiter berating Rei for getting her all worked up as the two walk down the corridor away from the classroom.
[15:44] * Serenity-hime gives Onizuka an apologetic look. "I'd better see what's going on - I'll be right back." With that, the princess gets out of her seat and heads out of the classroom, trying to catch up to the two senshi.
[15:45] <Ebiris> They aren't that far away. Jupiter is gesticulating a fair bit while Mars walks with her shoulders slumped.
[15:46] * Serenity-hime scurries up to the pair. "Okay, guys, what's going on?" She places a hand on Mars' shoulder to get the raven-haired girl's attention.
[15:47] <Ebiris> The pair stop and turn to face you. "Oh, sorry about that, Princess," Mars says apologetically. "I was just mistaken about something."
[15:47] <Ebiris> "She thought you had gone down to Earth," Jupiter snorts beside her.
[15:48] <Serenity-hime> "Why did you think that?" Usagi asks Rei, her voice betraying her curiosity.
[15:52] <Ebiris> "Well, Hikari told me you had gotten up very early today," You recall Hikari as being the name of one of your maidservants, "But when I checked in with Onizuka-sensei you weren't there. I looked around all the usual places you might go when skipping classes, but saw no sign of you... I was getting rather concerned when I bumped into Mako-chan and she said you were at your lessons."
[15:52] <Ebiris> She shrugs helplessly, "I guess I was mistaken. You do know better than to go wandering down to Earth alone by now, right?" she chuckles slightly nervously.
[15:55] * Serenity-hime gives Rei a shaky smile. "Of course I know better." 'Geez, it wasn't all that long ago when I got yelled at for coming HERE alone...' she thinks to herself. "I just, um, woke up early and went for a walk."
[15:56] <Ebiris> "Huh?" Jupiter looks confused, "But didn't you say you went to bed and then woke up in the garden not knowing how you got there?" Mars looks rather puzzled by this announcement.
[15:57] <Serenity-hime> "It's... been a weird morning." Usagi shrinks into herself. "In a lot of ways."
[15:57] <Ebiris> Both senshi give you concerned looks. "Are you feeling alright, Princess?" Mars asks worriedly.
[15:59] * Serenity-hime takes a deep sigh. "To be perfectly honest, no, I'm not. I..." Again, the princess hesitates, knowing that the odds of either of her friends taking her story at face value are slim to none. "I just wish I knew what was going on."
[16:00] <Ebiris> They both give you blank looks. "I did think it would be odd for you to sleepwalk that far," Jupiter nods at last.
[16:01] <Serenity-hime> "I don't know what happened, exactly, but I'm pretty sure I wasn't sleepwalking." Usagi looks glum. 'Unless I was sleepwalking through time or something...' she thinks wryly.
[16:03] <Ebiris> "Well, my second thought was someone playing some sort of prank on you," Jupiter shrugs, "But the only people who would be able to carry it out would really be us senshi. And, really, it's not a very clever prank..."
[16:03] <Ebiris> Rei takes a second to digest this before she blurts out "Minako!"
[16:04] * Serenity-hime scowls, but quickly masks her expression. "No, I don't think Minako could do this if she tried."
[16:05] <Ebiris> "I don't know," Jupiter shrugs, "It wouldn't be that hard for her to get access to your chambers and move you to the gardens while you slept without anyone raising a fuss. But... it just lacks any real sort of panache or style..."
[16:06] <Ebiris> "And that gag with the sneezing powder was stylish?" Mars asks, scowling something fierce.
[16:06] <Ebiris> "I thought it was kinda funny," Jupiter chuckles, quickly masking it with a cough when she notes Mars' expression.
[16:07] * Serenity-hime tries to hide a smile at the memory. "Only because of the timing, Rei-chan." Her expression droops again a moment later. "No, this is more than just moving me out of my chambers."
[16:08] <Ebiris> "What do you mean, then?" Mars asks, giving you a curious look.
[16:09] <Serenity-hime> "It's..." Usagi hesitates again. "Can I ask a really strange question first?"
[16:09] <Ebiris> Both senshi shrug. "Sure." "Go ahead."
[16:09] <Serenity-hime> "What's today's date?"
[16:10] <Ebiris> "It's the twentieth," Mars supplies.
[16:10] * Serenity-hime shakes her head. "The FULL date."
[16:11] <Ebiris> Both Mars and Jupiter exchange glances before returning their attention to you. "Tuesday the twentieth of July, ten forty six," Mars elaborates.
[16:12] <Serenity-hime> "Less than a year to go then..." Usagi mutters to herself. "I can tell you what I think happened to me, but I'm willing to bet here and now that you won't believe a word of it."
[16:13] <Ebiris> "Lets hear it, then," Jupiter says.
[16:14] <Serenity-hime> "I'm not... Serenity." Usagi begins. "Not entirely, anyway."
[16:15] <Ebiris> "What?" both girls echo in eerie synchronicity.
[16:16] * Serenity-hime ignores the outburst and continues. "I'm actually from the future - several thousand years in the future, as near as I can tell. No one's figured out exactly how long. My name is Usagi Tsukino, and I'm the reincarnation of Princess Serenity - the Serenity that you know."
[16:16] <Ebiris> "What?" the duo repeat, sounding rather incredulous.
[16:17] * Serenity-hime shakes her head. "I knew you wouldn't believe me." Her shoulders slump.
[16:19] <Ebiris> "Um..." Mars glances at Jupiter, only recieving a shrug in reply. "We're sorry, Pri- ah, Usagi. But this is rather hard to take in..."
[16:20] <Serenity-hime> "I know, I can barely believe it myself - and I'M the one it happened to." The blonde deflates. "It's really... weird, to be back here."
[16:20] <Ebiris> "So what's the future like?" Jupiter suddenly blurts, recieving a glare from Mars for her trouble. She merely gives an unconcerned shrug in reply.
[16:22] <Serenity-hime> "It's... different. We don't live on the Moon anymore." Usagi admits after a pause. "The senshi were all reborn too, and we all live in a city called Tokyo - probably doesn't even exist in this time, but it's on Earth."
[16:23] <Ebiris> "Wait," Jupiter holds up a hand to stall the discussion, "We're all reborn thousands of years from now, and we're exactly the same, except we live on Earth?" She doesn't sound at all convinced.
[16:24] <Serenity-hime> "Not EXACTLY the same. But we look the same, and we still have our senshi abilities. Our families are different, though, and none of us are royalty."
[16:26] <Ebiris> "Well who's in charge, then?" Jupiter asks, still rather doubtfully, but there is genuine curiousity in her tone as well.
[16:28] <Serenity-hime> "There's a democratic government in the country where we all live, but there are several hundred different countries all over Earth - and each one is ruled separately. It's not just one government overseeing the entire world."
[16:28] <Ebiris> "Several hundred?" Mars repeats, "What the hell happened to cause that?"
[16:30] <Serenity-hime> "I... I'm not sure I should say." 'How the hell am I supposed to explain that in less than a year, the entire Silver Millenium as well as the ruling government of Earth is going to lie in ruins?'
[16:30] <Ebiris> "Well if Earth is all fragmented like that, what's the story with the rest of the planets?" Jupiter asks. Mars just sighs loudly.
[16:31] * Serenity-hime blanches and looks at the floor on hearing Jupiter's question.
[16:33] <Ebiris> "It hardly matters," Mars snaps. "Come on, we need to go get you checked out by a doctor," she takes hold of your wrist.
[16:35] * Serenity-hime pulls her hand away from Mars a bit roughly. "I'm not sick, Rei!" 'Except maybe sick at heart... god, knowing what's going to happen here...'
[16:36] <Ebiris> Mars gives you a frustrated look, "We'll let the doctor decide that, I think!"
[16:37] <Serenity-hime> "Fine. But I'm more than capable of walking by myself - you don't have to drag me." Usagi matches the fiery princess glare for glare.
[16:38] <Ebiris> "Okay, then," Mars nods, before glancing at Jupiter with raised eyebrows, finding the taller brunette matching her expression entirely.
[16:39] * Serenity-hime stalks off in the direction of the healer's study, not even stopping to see if the other two are following her.
[16:41] <Ebiris> The pair follow behind you at a respectful distance, conversing quietly amongst themselves. "Y'know, what if she's right? I mean, I can't imagine her joking about this," Jupiter says to the raven-haired girl.
[16:42] <Ebiris> "Of course she wouldn't joke like this!" Mars hisses back, "That's why we need to see a doctor. There's no telling what's been done to her!"
[16:43] * Serenity-hime frowns. "I'm NOT joking, and aside from waking up several thousand years before I went to bed, absolutely NOTHING has been done to me." Usagi replies.
[16:45] <Ebiris> "We believe you believe that," Jupiter says brightly, nudging Mars who nods glumly.
[16:46] * Serenity-hime sighs, turning to face the tall brunette. "I don't just believe it, I KNOW it. What I DON'T know is why I'm here now."
[16:48] <Ebiris> "Yes, well... if you are telling the truth, Usagi," Mars says the name like it leaves a bad taste in her mouth, "We'll do everything we can to help figure it out."
[16:49] * Serenity-hime notes the tone of disapproval. "Look, call me Serenity if you want to - that's as much who I am as Usagi Tsukino is. It's just that from my perspective, Serenity is just my past."
[16:50] <Ebiris> Mars nods, relaxing somewhat at that. "Okay, then. Shall we continue on, Serenity?" she gives you a small, somewhat hesitant smile.
[16:52] * Serenity-hime nods, returning Rei's smile - and feeling something of a pang knowing that this isn't HER Rei. She quickly turns away from the violet-eyed senshi and continues down the hallway.
[16:54] <Ebiris> The two senshi follow in silence, and the three of you reach the healer's study without further incident. Inside, an older man in white robes looks up. "Good morning, Princess, Sailor Mars, Sailor Jupiter," he bows to all three of you in turn. "What brings you here? No one feeling sick, I hope?" he asks kindly.
[16:59] * Serenity-hime sighs. "Not exactly sick, but Rei thought I should come and get checked out anyway." She glances over at the dark-haired princess as she speaks.
[17:00] <Ebiris> "The Princess isn't feeling herself this morning," Mars puts in.
[17:00] * Serenity-hime snorts. 'That's an understatement.' Usagi thinks to herself.
[17:01] <Ebiris> "Oh?" the healer looks you over, "Well it seems to me that her Highness is in fine physical shape. What seems to be the nature of the problem?"
[17:02] <Serenity-hime> "I'm... in the wrong time." Usagi frowns, knowing that she's even less likely to be believed here. "As far as I can remember, I'm from the future - WAY in the future."
[17:04] <Ebiris> To your surprise, the healer doesn't even bat an eyelid. "Oh, I see. Quite the pickle you've gotten yourself into, yes indeed," he nods. "Well, if you have been temporally displaced, the signs should be quite evident in your aura. If you'll pardon me a moment..." he goes over to a cupboard and starts rummaging around inside.
[17:05] * Serenity-hime looks over at the healer curiously, wondering how he's going to take a look at her aura.
[17:06] <Ebiris> "Ah, here it is," the man says triumphantly, pulling out what looks to be a clunkier version of Sailor Mercury's visor. He puts it on and twiddles with some knobs on the side as he looks at you over.
[17:07] * Serenity-hime examines the healer's aura for lack of anything better to do as he examines hers.
[17:09] <Ebiris> His aura doesn't really seem all that different from a normal human's. Though it does feel significantly 'older' than any you've seen before, even on senior citizens back in Japan.
[17:09] <Ebiris> "Oh, oh my! Yes indeed!" the man gasps. "This is quite extraordinary!"
[17:10] <Ebiris> "What?" Mars perks up a little.
[17:10] * Serenity-hime looks at the old man curiously. "What is it?"
[17:11] <Ebiris> "There's definitely evidence of temporal displacement," he says, removing the visor, "But more than that, I see traces of the Ginzuishou's energy in there as well."
[17:11] <Ebiris> Mars and Jupiter both gasp at that, turning to stare at you.
[17:13] * Serenity-hime blows out a breath. "Big surprise there..."
[17:14] <Ebiris> "So, it seems I was in error when I addressed you earlier. You have my apologies, Queen Serenity," the healer says, a mirthful smile tugging at his lips. Mars and Jupiter are both doing a fair job of impersonating fish out of water.
[17:15] * Serenity-hime hides a smile. "Sort of, but yeah. I am technically the queen in the future."
[17:17] <Ebiris> "Of course," the man nods, "Such traces only manifest after one has mastered the Silver Crystal. So, you are from a future point where you have assumed the throne? This is most fascinating..."
[17:17] <Serenity-hime> "For what it's worth, yeah - I've assumed the throne in the future." Usagi looks a bit melancholy at that, but doesn't go on.
[17:18] <Ebiris> "Uh, Rei-chan," Jupiter nudges Mars, "If she really is from the future, doesn't that mean that that thing you were talking about earlier really did happen?" she throws a meaningful glance at the healer as she dances around saying exactly what the subject is.
[17:18] <Ebiris> The colour drains from Mars' face. "I better go find her!" she blurts, suddenly sprinting out the room.
[17:19] * Serenity-hime can't help but giggle as Mars takes off like a bat out of hell. "I really did give her hell back... now, didn't I?"
[17:22] <Ebiris> "Then... it really is true? You're not just our Princess from the future, but you're from really far in the future? After we all die and get reincarnated?" Jupiter asks, her tone rather shell-shocked.
[17:22] * Serenity-hime nods, smiling slightly. "'fraid so, Mako-chan."
[17:23] <Ebiris> "But, even though you're a reincarnation, you still actually remember being our Princess?" Jupiter continues, still trying to wrap her head around it.
[17:24] <Serenity-hime> "Yeah, some of it - not every day, obviously, but I remember a lot of what happened. Most of the rest of you guys remember a little bit yourselves - not nearly as much as I do, but a few things."
[17:26] <Ebiris> Jupiter nods. "How did we-" she suddenly cuts herself off and shakes her head. "Actually, I'm pretty sure I don't want to know that. Never mind," she says, shivering. "Anyway, I suppose I should take you to see Ami-chan if we're going to figure out what to do... or the Queen? Ah, I mean current Queen..." she blushes.
[17:27] * Serenity-hime smiles gently. "I really would like to see Mother... it's been a very long time."
[17:28] <Ebiris> "Okay, then," Jupiter nods, "Lets go to the throneroom." She smiles at the healer as she departs, "Thanks for your help, Doctor."
[17:29] * Serenity-hime nods to the doctor. "Thank you." With that, she steps out of the room with Jupiter, starting on her way through the halls of the palace to the throne room.
[09:11] <Ebiris> It doesn't take long for you to make your way to the throneroom, and you attract no odd stares this time. You aren't that far away when you spot two familiar faces coming down the corridor towards you. Orestes and Cynthia. Both of them smile on seeing you and Sailor Jupiter, while Jupiter grins herself as she approaches them.
[09:12] * Serenity-hime feels her heart sink as she sees the pair. She looks away from the two, unwilling to even greet Orestes and feeling her heart sink at the sight of Cynthia.
[09:14] <Ebiris> "Good morning Princess," Orestes greets you distractedly, quickly focusing on your companion, "Milady Jupiter." Cynthia herself draws up alongside you, looking concerned. "What's wrong, Serenity? You look rather upset."
[09:16] * Serenity-hime glances over at Orestes and Cynthia, her stomach roiling as she remembers what WILL happen. And Cynthia... "Um... just kind of, er, preoccupied, Cynthia. Nothing to worry about." Usagi picks up her steps a bit as she continues on towards the throne room.
[09:17] <Ebiris> "Oh, yes," Jupiter moves away from Orestes to follow you. "We have to go see the Queen quite urgently. I'll see you later," she waves as she departs.
[09:18] <Ebiris> "Wait," Cynthia calls after the pair of you. "Her Majesty has already dismissed the Court and retired to her chambers. You won't find her in the throneroom."
[09:18] * Serenity-hime sighs and changes direction. "Thanks for letting me know, Cynthia."
[09:20] <Ebiris> "No problem," Cynthia smiles. "I'll be in my study if you want to stop by and talk about what's bothering you."
[09:22] * Serenity-hime doesn't reply, making her way down the hallways of the palace at a near-run now.
[09:23] <Ebiris> Jupiter hurries to catch up with you. "I'm almost afraid to ask, but what was all that about?" she asks, matching your pace with no real effort.
[09:24] <Serenity-hime> "I..." Usagi's throat is dry, making it difficult to speak. "It's... keep an eye on Orestes, okay?" Usagi gives Jupiter a worried glance.
[09:25] <Ebiris> "Orestes? Why?" Jupiter frowns, "Does something happen to him?" she asks, her tone showing a goodly amount of concern.
[09:26] <Serenity-hime> "He's..." Usagi hesitates, facing the same problem yet again. How exactly do you break it to someone that someone close to them is going to rip their soul apart and die at her, Usagi's, own hands shortly after?
[09:27] <Ebiris> "He's?" Jupiter prods. She sounds rather worried, and doesn't look like she's going to give up any time soon.
[09:28] * Serenity-hime shakes her head. "Just forget about it, Mako-chan. All I'll say is that you should be really careful about trusting him."
[09:29] <Ebiris> "What?" Jupiter stops, grabbing your forearm and forcing you to do the same. "What do you mean? I've known Orestes since I was a little girl - he's always been there for me! What are you saying, Serenity?" She's showing none of her former deference, and seems rather determined to get a clear answer.
[09:32] * Serenity-hime deflates, turning to face the brunette. "Makoto... soon, now - I don't remember exactly when - he's going to hurt you rather badly. And in the future, he's going to hurt you even more. You never told me the details of what happened, but he's... not quite right in the head, or he won't be soon."
[09:34] <Ebiris> Jupiter pales, letting go of you as her hands fall limply at her sides. "No," she shakes her head, "He'd never hurt me. He's always been my most loyal servant." She swallows, "Even more than that, he's my friend and confidante! He couldn't possibly hurt me, it's just not in his nature!"
[09:35] * Serenity-hime looks down. "I'm sorry, Mako-chan, but that's what I remember. If you don't want to believe it, I can't make you, but please - just be careful, okay?"
[09:37] <Ebiris> Jupiter sighs. "I'll be careful, but I'm not going to alienate him without any proof." She hangs her head, looking rather downcast. "Let's just go see the Queen, okay?"
[09:38] * Serenity-hime nods slowly. "That's probably the best thing for right now," she says quietly.
[09:43] <Ebiris> The pair of you resume walking to the Queen's chambers in sombre mood. You are both able to get past the guards outside without any hassle. You find Queen Serenity standing on the balcony outside her bedroom, holding what looks to be an elongated version of your Moon Wand, with the Ginzuishou embedded on the top.
[09:43] <Ebiris> She turns from staring at the stars to face you both. "Hello Sailor Jupiter," she smiles at the senshi before turning to you, "And who is this I see before me? So alike in form to my daughter, yet markedly different in spirit..."
[09:45] * Serenity-hime feels a smile come to her lips as she faces her mother. "I am your daughter, Mother. And at the same time, I'm someone else, too." Usagi gives into the temptation and hurries over to the balcony, sweeping the queen into a tight embrace. "I've missed you..." Usagi whispers.
[09:48] <Ebiris> The Queen seems rather surprised at this, but returns your hug after a moment. "Indeed? Perhaps you could explain your words more clearly," she pulls away and gives a nod to her staff, "Your spirit tugs at the Crystal as if it would call you it's master, yet no two people can ever harness it at the same time. So it follows that you are out of your own time?"
[09:49] * Serenity-hime nods. "A long way out of my own time." Usagi sighs. "Several thousand years in the future, as a matter of fact."
[09:51] <Ebiris> "Curious," the Queen smiles as if finding some amusement in your words. "But it does not explain how you can be my daughter while being someone else at the same time."
[09:52] <Serenity-hime> "I'm... not literally Serenity." Usagi lets her concentration slip, returning to the form of Usagi Tsukino - pajamas and all.
[09:52] * Serenity-hime is now known as Usagi-chan
[09:53] <Usagi-chan> "My name is Usagi Tsukino, and I'm the reincarnation of Princess Serenity - your daughter."
[09:55] <Ebiris> The Queen purses her lips slightly before looking over at Jupiter. "Sailor Jupiter, you are dismissed. Do not speak of what you have heard to anyone, understood?"
[09:55] <Ebiris> "Yes, ma'am," Jupiter bows, making haste to leave the pair of you alone.
[09:56] * Usagi-chan turns to face Makoto. "I'd pass that on to the healer and Rei-chan as well." she adds before the senshi leaves.
[09:57] <Ebiris> "Uh, yes... I'll go find Sailor Mars right away so I can tell her," Jupiter bows to you just as she leaves the room.
[09:58] * Usagi-chan gives the queen a wistful look. "You don't know how good it is to see you again, Mother."
[10:00] <Ebiris> "It's nice to be missed even after such a time as several thousand years," the Queen chuckles lightly to herself. "But I still find this rather odd. It is the way of the universe that all must pass on - my daughter will be no exception to that. But for her to be reincarnated as the living image of herself," she gently cups your chin, staring into your eyes, "And with full recollection of her life her no less... it is passing strange."
[10:04] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Not quite full recollection, but I remember a lot. It's just as weird for me to be back in this time and this place... especially with the future being what it is." Usagi looks a bit downcast at that, but doesn't add anything to it.
[10:07] <Ebiris> "Is the future not a pleasant place?" Serenity looks at you with a sympathetic expression.
[10:09] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "It's not that... it has its problems, but things are really a lot different then... especially here." Usagi looks around the room, recalling the scene of devastation that her last view of the Queen's chambers had been.
[10:10] <Ebiris> The Queen quirks an eyebrow at that. "Perhaps it is best that I do not ask," she sighs. "So, do you have any idea of how you happened to arrive here?"
[10:11] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "No idea... I went to bed last night like I usually do, and next thing I know I woke up out in the garden where Mako-chan found me."
[10:13] <Ebiris> "Were you thinking especially strong thoughts of this period in time?" Serenity asks, gesturing to her staff, "The Ginzuishou can sometimes act upon undisciplined but strong feelings... though your spirit speaks of more control than that..."
[10:14] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I don't have the Ginzuishou in the future anymore. I did have it for a little while, but it disappeared about three or four months ago, from my point of view." Usagi's shoulders slump.
[10:15] <Ebiris> "It... it disappeared?!" the Queen manages to look genuinely rattled for the first time since you started talking to her.
[10:16] * Usagi-chan nods glumly. "Poof, gone. I used it to defeat Metallia, and then it was just gone - I looked for it everywhere, but it's like it just vanished."
[10:18] <Ebiris> "Metallia?" Serenity gives you a curious look, still seeming rather shocked at the most sacred relic of her line going 'Poof, gone'.
[10:19] <Usagi-chan> "A... really powerful demon, or something. I don't know exactly what it was, but it was out to destroy the Earth." Usagi shakes her head slightly.
[10:20] <Ebiris> Serenity nods, a bit shakily. "Yes, it always has been our task to watch over the Earth... though it must have been a powerful demon indeed to require the sacrifice of the Silver Crystal..."
[10:20] <Usagi-chan> "I think it's safe to say that it was EXTREMELY powerful." Usagi replies hoarsely.
[10:22] <Ebiris> "I'm sorry," the Queen enfolds you in a gentle embrace, "This mustn't be something you enjoy talking about. I shouldn't pry."
[10:23] * Usagi-chan relaxes in the Queen's arms. "It's just... it's so hard to see everything like this again, seeing people..." Usagi buries her face in Serenity's shoulder, trying hard not to cry.
[10:24] <Ebiris> The lavender haired woman gently strokes your back. "Yes, we must be nothing more than dim memories to you..." she says softly.
[10:25] <Usagi-chan> "I'll make it like this again, I promise..." Usagi mumbles into the queen's shoulder, her voice muffled.
[10:26] <Ebiris> Queen Serenity gently soothes her time-lost reincarnated daughter, offering quiet words of encouragement as you cry out your fears and hopes for the future.
[11:04] * Usagi-chan clings to her mother for several minutes, drawing strength from her embrace. After a few minutes she manages to compose herself, wiping tears from her face with the back of her pajama sleeve. "I'm sorry, it's just harder than I thought..." she looks down.
[11:06] <Ebiris> "I understand," Serenity says warmly, dashing away your tears with her forefinger. "It can't be easy to be torn away from your own loved ones and made to confront the ghosts of your past."
[11:07] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "And that isn't even the worst of it..." The blonde gives a deep sigh. "I think I can understand Setsuna a little better now."
[11:08] <Ebiris> "Oh? Setsuna is still performing her duty in your time?" the Queen asks curiously.
[11:09] * Usagi-chan nods. "The same - I don't think she was reincarnated, but all of the senshi were born into the future with me." Usagi smiles wistfully. "But yes, Setsuna is still guarding the Gate."
[11:11] <Ebiris> Serenity shakes her head sadly. "Several thousand years... I would have thought she'd have found a replacement in all that time. Her devotion is remarkable, if somewhat depressing..."
[11:12] <Usagi-chan> "I've only seen her twice in the future, but both times she really seemed lonely." Usagi sighs. "I get the feeling she doesn't get to see very many people, ever."
[11:13] <Ebiris> "I'd imagine not. She can't very well leave the Gates unattended if she's to guard them. Still," the Queen smiles slightly, "She's going to get a pair of visitors today."
[11:15] * Usagi-chan smiles slightly. "Maybe you can show me how to reach her... I'm afraid I don't know how to do it myself, or I'd have paid her a visit myself by now."
[11:17] <Ebiris> "There are various ways of reaching the Gates of Time," the Queen says, stepping out of her embrace with you, "The simplest one is right here in the Palace."
[11:17] <Usagi-chan> "Really? Where is it?" Usagi looks curious.
[11:19] <Ebiris> "Why don't you come along and I'll show you?" the Queen steps back into her bedroom and towards the exit of her chambers, beckoning you to follow.
[11:19] * Usagi-chan quickly moves to follow the Queen.
[11:20] <Ebiris> The pair of you step out, the guards staring slightly at your attire. The Queen pays them no mind as she begins walking back down the corridor you came up with Jupiter earlier.
[11:21] * Usagi-chan notes the guards' stares, and as soon as the two have moved out of their sight she changes back to the form of the Princess, not wanting to draw any more stares.
[11:21] * Usagi-chan is now known as Serenity-hime
[11:25] <Ebiris> You continue following the Queen. As you proceed through the more deserted sections of the palace, feel a chill running down your spine, and the presence of a familiar malicious aura, seemingly creeping into the Palace. It's pretty far away - on the other side of the palace entirely from what you can tell.
[11:26] * Serenity-hime slows to a halt, her eyes narrowing as she picks up the aura. She concentrates, trying to identify the presence more clearly.
[11:27] <Ebiris> It's mostly confined to a small area, but is incredibly focused. It feels like a constant flow of dark energy is coming into the palace from a place unknown, like a trickle from a tap. It isn't much now, but it is growing...
[11:29] * Serenity-hime shakes her head, filing away the information for later. As small as it seems at the moment, it can probably wait until after her meeting with Setsuna. She starts walking again, quickly catching up to the Queen once again.
[11:29] <Ebiris> The Queen stops and turns to give you a concerned look. "Is something wrong?"
[11:30] <Serenity-hime> "Maybe... I'm not sure." Usagi has a concerned look. "There's something not right, somewhere in the palace, but it's too far away for me to tell anything about it. It seems kind of familiar though."
[11:31] <Ebiris> Going through your memory, it feels rather like what Channel 5 did when Cynthia was opening her gate.
[11:33] * Serenity-hime blanches. "Strike that... I know exactly what it is, and I've got to get over there!" Quickly withdrawing her brooch from subspace, the princess shouts the words "Moon Prism Power, Make UP!"
[11:33] * Serenity-hime is now known as Sailor_Moon
[11:33] * Sailor_Moon gives the queen an apologetic look before taking off through the palace hallways towards Cynthia's rooms.
[11:36] <Ebiris> You dimly hear the Queen crying out after you, but are too preoccupied to hear her words. Running, you make good time through the deserted sections of the palace, but just as you come across a pair of guardsmen, your aura sense is assualted by a veritable explosion of dark energy. Instead of a mere trickle, it is now a raging torrent flooding into the palace! And instead of one source, you can detect many of them spread all over the place.
[11:37] <Ebiris> The guardsmen both look surprised by your appearance, but not as much as when a flash of green light deposits a pair of dirty brown homonids with glowing red eyes and spiked shoulders right between them and yourself!
[11:38] <Sailor_Moon> "Dammit!" Moon hops back a step. "Not today... not this!"
[11:39] <Ebiris> With screetching growls, both creatures attack! One of them coming right at you, while the other goes for the surprised guards!
[11:39] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[11:39] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 17."
[11:39] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[11:39] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[11:39] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[11:39] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[11:39] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[11:39] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[11:39] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[11:39] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[11:41] * Sailor_Moon quickly removes her tiara, the golden circlet forming into a glowing disc as she balances it on her hand. "Moon Tiara Action!" With a cry, she launches it at both of the imps!
[11:41] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+1
[11:41] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+1 and gets 8."
[11:41] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+1
[11:41] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+1 and gets 10."
[11:41] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+1
[11:41] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+1 and gets 8."
[11:43] <Ebiris> The tiara guts one the nearest Imp before slashing across the neck of the next! The creatures roar in pain, but aren't out yet!
[11:43] <Ebiris> The one with the wounded neck lunges at the nearest guard, aiming to rend his puny manflesh!
[11:43] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:43] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[11:43] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[11:43] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[11:43] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:43] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[11:44] <Ebiris> The guard cries out in pain as the Imp's claws puncture his armour as if it were tissue paper, tearing a deep gouge down his chest!
[11:45] <Ebiris> Staggering back, the guard produces a small stick which elongates into a pole with an energy blade on the end. "For the Queen!" he cries, swiping at the hellish creature!
[11:45] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:45] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[11:46] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:46] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[11:46] <Ebiris> The wounded Imp is in no shape to dodge, and the magical halberd cleaves it right from shoulder to hip, it's steaming corpse hitting the floor with a wet splat!
[11:47] <Ebiris> The other guard manages to collect his wits enough to produce his own weapon, and stabs at the remaining monster.
[11:47] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:47] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[11:47] <Ebiris> But as he advances he slips on the already spilt blood, his strike going wide!
[11:48] <Ebiris> With a hiss, the creature tosses a glowing red fireball at you with one hand, using the other to keep its guts inside!
[11:48] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:48] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:48] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[11:48] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[11:49] <Ebiris> With the ease of long practice, the senshi of the Moon adroitly sidesteps the feeble attack!
[11:49] <Ebiris> OOC: Init time
[11:49] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[11:49] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 13."
[11:49] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[11:49] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[11:49] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[11:49] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[11:49] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[11:49] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[11:50] * Sailor_Moon motions, and the glowing tiara changes direction in mid-flight, headed straight for the remaining demon!
[11:50] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[11:50] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[11:50] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+1
[11:50] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+1 and gets 13."
[11:50] <Ebiris> The Imp doesn't even see it coming as your tiara slices right through its cranium!
[11:51] * Sailor_Moon catches the tiara and replaces it, quickly hurrying over to the injured guard. "Are you all right?"
[11:52] <Ebiris> "What the hell are these things?" the injured guard cries, tearing off part of his cloak and forming a makeshift bandage for his injury.
[11:52] <Ebiris> Looking up at you appreciatively, he smiles a bit shakily. "I'm not in any danger if that's what you mean, but who knows how things are elsewhere if more of these beasts have invaded the palace..."
[11:52] <Sailor_Moon> "They're demons - someone's opened a gate to the world they come from, and they're all over the palace now. I'd stay on your guard, there's no telling how many of them are still here."
[11:53] <Ebiris> "Yes," he nods, "But who are you? You wear the uniform of the Sailor Senshi, but I recognise all of them on sight, and you aren't one of them."
[11:53] * Sailor_Moon nods. "I'm going to head to the gate itself and try to close it... try to alert everyone you can, although I get the feeling that most everyone knows about it by this point."
[11:54] * Sailor_Moon dashes off again quickly, leaving the guard's last question unanswered. Her course is unerringly fixed on the source of the dark energy she can feel permeating the palace.
[11:55] <Ebiris> Running down a corridor, you turn the corner only to find the ground a lot slicker beneath your feet than you'd expected. (body check)
[11:56] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6-2 (for acrobatics)
[11:56] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6-2 (for acrobatics) and gets 8."
[12:03] <Ebiris> Your feet sliding out from beneath you, you land on your rear, finding that the the floor in this corridor is literally awash with red blood. A number of corpses litter the hallway, and you see one of the large pinkish demons with goat legs that you fought underneath Channel 5.
[12:04] <Ebiris> Bellowing loudly, the beast swipes its arm forward, loosing a green projectile at our heroine!
[12:04] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:04] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:04] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[12:04] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[12:05] <Ebiris> Rolling to the side, you are just barely able to dodge the hellish missile! The beast snorts angrily, readying another attack.
[12:06] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:06] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[12:06] <Sailor_Moon> "Great... took four of us to take down one of these things the last time..." Moon mutters to herself. Steeling herself, she faces off against the monster, her scepter at the ready.
[12:06] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[12:06] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 18."
[12:07] <Ebiris> Looking at the beast, you see its body is covered in various deep gouges which ooze green blood. It seems the various dead guards here did not go down without a fight.
[12:07] * Sailor_Moon grits her teeth, planting her feet firmly to keep from slipping as she releases her most powerful attack. "Moon Princess Hallation!"
[12:07] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[12:07] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[12:08] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[12:08] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 10."
[12:10] <Ebiris> The creature doesn't react fast enough, and your blast of energy gouges a massive crater in its chest! Organs spill out, but somehow it manages to remain on its feet! Staggering forward, it launches another green fireball at you!
[12:10] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:10] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[12:10] <Ebiris> But the blast is errant, only managing to melt away a corpse that was nowhere near you!
[12:13] * Sailor_Moon lowers the Lunar Rod, holding one hand out in front of her as a brilliant white beam of energy emits from it to strike the creature in its wounded chest!
[12:13] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[12:13] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[12:13] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:13] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[12:14] <Ebiris> The beast is in no shape to dodge, and the beam of white energy blasts right through it's back! With a muffled groan, the monster slumps to the ground. Utterly dead.
[12:15] * Sailor_Moon takes a deep breath, grateful that the beast was so little trouble. Her triumph is short-lived, however, as she can still sense the massive energy flow of the gate itself not too far away. Gathering her strength, she begins to run towards it once again.
[12:15] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 for rejuv
[12:15] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for rejuv and gets 5."
[12:20] <Ebiris> Running along, you hear the sounds of combat nearby, and smell the sharp tang of ozone mixed with the rancid ichor in the air. A cry of "Supreme Thunder!" is heard, followed shortly by the same voice crying out in pain. Investigating would be a small detour from your current path, though...
[12:21] * Sailor_Moon decides to check on Makoto, to make sure she's in no danger, before heading on to deal with the gate itself. Turning aside, she heads towards the sound of the tall brunette's voice.
[12:23] <Ebiris> Reaching an exposed concourse above the palace gardens, you find Sailor Jupiter facing off alone against three foes. Blood drips down her thigh from a jagged looking cut just under her skirt, and her fuku is rather charred, but she still looks to be hanging in there, hefting the giant mace you remember recovering from the Moon. Arcs of electricity flicker over its surface.
[12:24] <Ebiris> Her enemies consist of a tall spindly yellow homonid creature with sunken eye sockets, and what look to be the reanimated corpses of two palace guards. Several other corpses litter the area.
[12:25] <Sailor_Moon> "Jupiter!" Usagi gasps at the sight of the evil-looking wound on Makoto's leg, and then her eyes widen at the sight of the golden-skinned demon. "Not one of those again..." she groans. Moon quickly turns to the other senshi. "Are you all right?"
[12:26] <Ebiris> "I'm fine," Jupiter grunts, clearly favouring her other leg, "But that doesn't mean I'd refuse any help."
[12:27] <Sailor_Moon> "You've got it!" Moon quickly nods, sizing up the three foes quickly. The guards seemed to be less of a concern than that yellow... thing, though.
[12:27] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[12:27] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 14."
[12:28] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:28] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[12:28] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:28] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[12:28] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:28] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:28] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[12:28] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[12:29] <Sailor_Moon> "Go for the yellow one!" Moon shouts as she brings the Lunar Rod to bear on the demon. "Moon Princess Hallation!" The battle cry rings forth again.
[12:29] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[12:29] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[12:29] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6
[12:29] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[12:31] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:31] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[12:31] <Ebiris> With a flare of energy you haven't felt since the battle with Beryl, a maelstrom of energy sings forth from the Lunar Rod, blinding everyone for a few seconds. When sight returns, there is no sign that the yellow demon ever existed.
[12:31] * Sailor_Moon blinks for a minute. "Whoa..." she says quietly.
[12:32] <Ebiris> "Damn!" Jupiter whistles, clearly impressed. "That thing just kept getting back up no matter what I did to it!" Refocusing her attention, she lunges forward to bat at the head of one of the zombies with her mace.
[12:32] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:32] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:32] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:32] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[12:33] <Ebiris> The zombie however proves surprisingly nimble, deflecting her strike with its energy halberd. The weapon is broken in the attempt however, but Jupiter still curses her rotten luck.
[12:33] <Ebiris> Now weaponless, the zombie instead shambles forward with its mouth hanging wide open...
[12:33] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:33] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[12:34] <Ebiris> But its feeble attempt at biting the senshi of thunder proves fruitless, missing by a surprising margin.
[12:34] <Ebiris> The other zombie moves in, swinging its magical weapon at the tall brunette!
[12:34] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:34] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[12:35] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:35] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:35] <Ebiris> But Jupiter is too agile, even in her wounded state, and neatly dodges the attack.
[12:35] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+9
[12:35] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+9 and gets 10."
[12:35] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:35] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[12:35] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:35] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:35] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[12:35] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[12:35] * Ana-gaming is now known as Anastasia
[12:36] <Ebiris> Growling, Jupiter hefts her mace once more, aiming to bash in the head of the still armed zombie.
[12:36] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:36] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[12:36] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:36] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[12:37] <Ebiris> And with a wet splat, she utterly caves the reanimated corpse in. Even if magic still forces it into wretched unlife, there sure isn't enough left of it to do much of anything...
[12:37] * Sailor_Moon flings another energy bolt at the remaining zombie, aiming to knock it away from the two senshi as far as she can.
[12:37] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[12:37] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[12:38] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:38] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[12:38] <Ebiris> The zombie's run of luck continues, and it manages to duck underneath the blast. Whoever he was in life, this zombie must have been a real badass!
[12:39] <Ebiris> Moaning incoherently, it once more shambles towards Jupiter, mouth hanging wide open!
[12:39] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:39] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[12:39] <Ebiris> But it stumbles and misses her quite clearly. Well, the guy was good at dodging, at least...
[12:39] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+9
[12:39] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+9 and gets 10."
[12:39] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:39] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[12:39] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:39] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[12:40] <Ebiris> Spinning around, Jupiter unloads a powerful backhand strike with her mace, aiming right for the side of the zombie's head!
[12:40] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:40] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[12:40] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:40] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[12:41] <Ebiris> With a sickening crunch, it connects, easily severing the spinal cord and sending the dead skull flying off the concourse and down into the gardens below. The body crumples soundlessly.
[12:42] * Sailor_Moon blows out a breath as the zombie collapses. She turns to look at the wounded Senshi of Thunder. "You sure you're okay, Mako-chan?"
[12:42] <Ebiris> Breathing heavily, Jupiter turns her attention to you. "I'm fine. And not that I mind the help at all, but who the hell are you?" she asks.
[12:43] * Sailor_Moon giggles. "Sailor Moon, at your service." She bows to the Jovian princess. "But we really don't have time to chat - the gate that let those things into the palace is still open, and it's got to be closed!"
[12:45] <Ebiris> Deciding not to question the good fortune of an uber-powerful new Sailor Senshi showing up just in time to help out in this battle, Jupiter focuses on the actual crisis. "They're appearing all over the place, though," she protests, waving around her mace like it weighs nothing.
[12:47] <Sailor_Moon> "I know, but there's one main gate - I can feel where it is, not too far from here. If we close that, it should take care of all the demons that are here." Usagi beckons to the taller senshi. "I could use your help, if you're up to it."
[12:49] <Ebiris> Jupiter nods. "Lead the way, then," she says, before a loud scream distracts both of you. "What the hell?!" Jupiter rushes over to the edge of the concourse to peer down into the gardens below.
[12:49] * Sailor_Moon follows Makoto quickly, looking for the source of the commotion.
[12:51] <Ebiris> Down in the gardens you see Sailor Mars and... yourself?! Princess Serenity hides behind the senshi of flame, cowering as Mars fights to defend her. While she seems to have things in hand against the large floating grey head with arms and the array of smaller flaming skulls, neither she nor the Princess have spotted the spindly yellow demon approaching them from behind a row of bushes.
[12:52] <Ebiris> "Dammit! Mars, look out!" Jupiter yells, screaming out "Supreme Thunder Dragon!" as she looses forth a massive dragon made of lightning at the Arch-Vile.
[12:52] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:52] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[12:52] * Sailor_Moon shakes her head. "Was I really that much of a wimp?" she mutters to herself, then sighs. "Help's on the way!" she shouts, leaping over the railing to land in the garden below.
[12:52] <Ebiris> The creature is totally surprised by the attack, and staggers from it, it's yellow skin charring.
[12:53] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6-2
[12:53] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6-2 and gets 7."
[12:56] <Ebiris> You land heavily, twisting your ankle a bit, but still ready to fight! (no init bonus this round)
[12:56] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:56] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[12:56] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:56] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[12:56] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:56] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[12:56] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6
[12:56] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[12:57] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:57] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[12:57] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:57] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:57] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[12:57] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[12:57] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:57] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[12:58] <Ebiris> Following your lead, Jupiter leaps down from the balcony to join the battle and protect her Princess!
[12:58] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:58] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[12:58] <Ebiris> Unlike you she lands lightly on her feet, and explodes into motion, swinging her mace at the nearest of the hovering skulls!
[12:58] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:58] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[12:58] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:58] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[12:59] <Ebiris> The flaming skull only has time to open it's jaw in surprise before shattering into fragments beneath Sailor Jupiter's mighty blow!
[13:02] <Ebiris> Meanwhile, the Arch-Vile bursts out of the bushes it was behind, right next to Princess Serenity! It seems not to notice the cowering blonde, instead targetting the raven-haired senshi of fire!
[13:02] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[13:02] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[13:03] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[13:03] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[13:03] <Ebiris> Flames spring up around Sailor Mars, but she reacts just a shade faster than they can appear, diving into a tumbling roll to the side just as they erupt fully.
[13:05] <Ebiris> "Damn you!" she swears, bringing up her clasped hands and yelling "Flame Burst!" as a spiralling fireball launches itself at the creature in retaliation!
[13:05] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[13:05] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 12."
[13:05] <Ebiris> The shot is painfully wide, only managing to set fire to Makoto's prize rose bushes.
[13:06] <Ebiris> The floating grey blob seems to bulge for a moment, before it opens its mouth wide and spits out another of the flaming skulls to replace the one that just expired!
[13:06] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[13:06] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[13:08] <Ebiris> As the new lost soul appears, the other two attack! One diving at Sailor Mars while the other goes for Sailor Jupiter!
[13:08] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[13:08] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[13:08] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[13:08] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[13:08] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[13:08] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[13:09] <Ebiris> Mars is able to skip out of the way of her attacker, while the other one flies right over Jupiter's head, slowing down as it nears Sailor Moon!
[13:10] * Sailor_Moon notes that the gray... thing seems to be producing the flying skulls. Hoping that taking it out will prevent any more of the flying nuisances from emerging, she aims a Moon Princess Hallation directly at its single eye!
[13:10] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[13:10] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[13:11] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[13:11] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[13:12] <Ebiris> The creature turns in midair, but is unable to react more than that as your halation cores right through it! The creature explodes in a gory shower, and you see another of those smaller skulls explode as well as it suffers the dregs of your blast. Princess Serenity shrieks as she is pelted with ichor.
[13:12] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[13:13] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12

[Halbarad]

[13:20] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for rejuv and gets 4."
[13:20] <Ebiris> "What the hell's going on?" Mars demands of Jupiter, "We just came up from Earth and the place is a madhouse!"
[13:22] * Sailor_Moon frowns. "Cynthia's opened a gate to another dimension, and these demons are flooding through it. We've got to get the gate closed!" Turning to... herself, she gets a very odd feeling as she addresses her past self. "Princess, I'd get back down to Earth - I don't think anywhere in the palace is safe right now."
[13:23] <Ebiris> Serenity sniffles. "I knew it was Cynthia as soon as I saw that... thing," she points at the remains of the Pain Elemental. "She showed me it in one of her books once... she always said she was careful, and that this would never happen..." she turns to the two senshi, "Oh, Rei-chan, Mako-chan, what are we going to do?!"
[13:24] <Ebiris> "Cynthia," Mars snarls, "I can't believe even she would be so stupid..."
[13:25] * Sailor_Moon sighs. "She didn't know what she was doing..." Moon shakes her head. "The important thing is to get the gate closed, or these demons are just going to keep coming no matter how many we kill."
[13:26] <Ebiris> Serenity stands up, making an effort to compose herself. "I'm coming, too," she says, her voice wavering, but her expression determined. "If this happened, Cynthia must be in trouble. I want to help her."
[13:26] <Ebiris> "Princess, you can't!" Jupiter protests, "You need to go somewhere safe!"
[13:27] <Sailor_Moon> "I'll make sure Cynthia's taken care of, Princess." Usagi chokes slightly. "I don't want to see her hurt any more than you do."
[13:28] <Ebiris> Serenity starts, as if noticing you for the first time. "Who... who are you?" she peers at you intently. "I don't recognise you as any Sailor Senshi, but you feel... familiar, somehow..." Beside her, Mars nods distantly, looking at you herself.
[13:28] <Sailor_Moon> "I'm..." Usagi hesitates.
[13:29] <Sailor_Moon> "I'm a senshi, but no one you've met before. Just do as I ask, okay?"
[13:31] <Ebiris> Serenity looks torn. "I feel as if I can trust you, but..." she gives you a tearful look, "Cynthia's my best friend. I need to do something to help, I can't just run away when she needs me!"
[13:31] <Ebiris> Both Mars and Jupiter have fairly clouded expressions at this point.
[13:32] * Sailor_Moon sighs. "All right... but you stay WAY behind us, okay? I really don't want you getting hurt, and this is going to be anything BUT safe."
[14:47] <Ebiris> "Actually," Jupiter speaks up, "WIth the way those things are just appearing all over the place, I'd feel a lot better if you stayed close to us, Princess."
[14:49] * Sailor_Moon sighs. "Just... try to stay out of trouble and out of sight, all right?" 'Oh man, is this what the others felt like when they found out I was the princess?' "Mako-chan, would you keep a close eye on her?"
[14:49] <Ebiris> Mars nods in agreement with that. "Well, I take it we're headed for Cynthia's study? That must be where this whole mess started..."
[14:51] <Ebiris> "You don't need to tell me my job, Sailor Moon," Jupiter winks at you. "Come on, let's go!" she starts jogging towards a doorway leading back into the palace, Mars and Serenity following close behind.
[14:51] * Sailor_Moon follows behind quickly, pacing the other two senshi while casting the occasional look back at the princess. 'This is beyond weird...'
[14:54] <Ebiris> The Princess seems to have gotten over her fright, and now wears a determined expression as she runs alongside her protectors. That expression changes to horror when you enter the building and are greeted with yet another scene of carnage. "Looks like Mercury's been busy," Mars comments, noting the large ice formations around some of the demon corpses.
[14:54] <Ebiris> "Lets just hope she's still fighting," Jupiter adds grimly, continuing past the scene of battle.
[14:56] * Sailor_Moon grimaces, not replying as she continues on with the other senshi.
[14:59] <Ebiris> Rounding another corner as you near Cynthia's study - the demonic presence is almost overwhelming, now - you happen on another scene of carnage. Corpses of a dozen guards and various lesser demons litter the hallway. And in the middle of it... Cynthia, flanked by two of the tall goat legged demons. The redhead looks a lot paler than when you saw her earlier, and two little horns jut out from her forehead.
[14:59] <Ebiris> "Cynthia!" Serenity gasps, her hands flying to cover her mouth. Jupiter and Mars both take positions in front of the Princess, ready to defend her.
[15:06] <Sailor_Moon> "Stay back, Princess!" Moon turns to the other two senshi. "Those demons she has with her can take a LOT of punishment, so you're going to have to hit them hard." She grimaces. "We're going to have to get rid of at least one of them before I can even think about trying to close the gate - I won't be able to fight at all while I'm doing it."
[15:09] <Ebiris> Cynthia laughs insanely. "More fresh meat!" she throws back her head as if in rapture, a corona of murky darkness outlining her body.
[15:10] <Sailor_Moon> "Poor girl..." Usagi shakes her head.
[15:10] <Ebiris> "Cynthia, what are you saying?" Serenity asks tearfully, pushing past Mars and Jupiter, "We have to stop this! We need you to close the gate you opened!"
[15:11] <Ebiris> "The puny mortal Cynthia is no more!" 'Cynthia' boasts, "But her body makes a fitting vessel to destroy you!"
[15:11] <Ebiris> OOC: Init time
[15:11] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 16."
[15:11] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[15:11] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[15:11] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[15:11] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[15:11] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[15:11] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[15:13] <Sailor_Moon> "Focus on one at a time!" Usagi shouts as she aims her scepter at the pink demon on Cynthia's right. "Moon Princess Hallation!"
[15:13] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[15:13] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[15:14] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:14] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[15:15] <Ebiris> While the large creature might look slow, it is still nimble enough to duck its bulk underneath the blast, which impacts into the ceiling, causing some rubble to land behind it and fill the corrider with dust.
[15:16] <Ebiris> Rising up once more, the pink demon gives a guttural howl as it swipes towards you, a glowing green projectile blasting forth at Sailor Moon!
[15:16] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:16] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[15:16] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[15:16] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[15:17] <Ebiris> But the agile Sailor from the future is abile to hop over the blast, which scores a deep scorchmark in the floor behind her.
[15:19] <Ebiris> "Ready, Jupiter?" Mars turns to the brunette, who nods in reply. The two stand side by side, flames and lightning coruscating around them both, and with a joint cry of "Burning Thunder Flash!" release a raging torrent of fire and electricity, which rushes at the rightmost demon with a tremendous thunderclap!
[15:19] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:19] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[15:19] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:19] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[15:19] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:19] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[15:21] <Ebiris> The combined powers of Sailors Mars and Jupiter easily overwhelm the demon's feeble attempt at defending, utterly annihilating it from the face of the Moon! A smoking pair of goats feet all that is left of it.
[15:21] <Ebiris> Meanwhile, the other pink demon tosses a green fireball at Sailor Mars!
[15:22] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:22] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[15:22] <Ebiris> But its aim is thrown off by the lightshow of the previous attack, and comes nowhere near her!
[15:23] <Ebiris> Heedless of the battle around her, Serenity approaches her friend. "Cynthia, you have to fight it!" she pleads, "Please, I know you're still in there!"
[15:24] <Sailor_Moon> "Princess, you have to stay back!" Usagi shouts. "We'll help her, but you have to wait!"
[15:24] <Ebiris> Instead of replying, Cynthia simply raises her hand and unleashes a beam of obsidian energy at the Princess!
[15:24] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:24] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 12."
[15:25] <Ebiris> But she slips on some blood as she tries her attack, falling on her back as it fires and blasting some rubble off the ceiling which plummets down towards her!
[15:25] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:25] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[15:26] <Ebiris> The possessed Summoner can't avoid it in time and is struck by several large blocks of debris!
[15:26] <Ebiris> "CYNTHIA!" Serenity shrieks, dashing towards the half-buried redhead.
[15:26] <Ebiris> OOC: Init
[15:27] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+9
[15:27] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+9 and gets 11."
[15:27] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:27] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[15:27] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:27] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[15:27] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:27] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[15:27] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:27] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[15:27] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:27] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[15:29] <Ebiris> Desperate to help her friend, Serenity begins shifting the shattered masonry from the still groggy, but also still evil Cynthia.
[15:30] <Ebiris> "Princess, get away from her!" Mars cries, although staggered from her previous attack, she rushes forward and pulls Serenity away.
[15:30] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:30] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[15:31] <Ebiris> But her tiredness is too much, and Mars only succeeds in falling over, landing with Serenity and Cynthia in a tangled heap.
[15:31] * Sailor_Moon moves towards Serenity, but with Mars having beat her to the punch she tries to summon the dregs of her strength. "Come ON, Usagi, get it together!" she mutters to herself.
[15:31] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 for rejuv
[15:31] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for rejuv and gets 7."
[15:32] <Ebiris> Retrieving her mace from subspace, Jupiter charges forward with a battle cry at the remaining demon, swinging her mace at it's ugly head!
[15:32] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:32] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[15:32] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:32] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[15:32] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:32] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[15:33] <Ebiris> The mace smashes into the creature's face, causing it to stagger backwards and howl in agony! But it remains standing...
[15:34] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:34] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[15:34] <Ebiris> With a loud feminine cry, both Mars and Serenity are shoved off of Cynthia, who pants from the exertion and glares hatefully at both, blood almost entirely covering one side of her face.
[15:35] <Ebiris> OOC: init again
[15:35] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:35] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[15:35] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:35] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[15:35] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[15:35] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 14."
[15:35] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:35] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[15:35] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:35] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[15:35] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:35] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[15:37] <Ebiris> Her mace crackling with electricity, Jupiter swings it once more, this time aiming for the demon's gut!
[15:37] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:37] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[15:37] <Ebiris> But she slips on the bloody floor, only barely keeping from falling over as she misses her swing and overbalances!
[15:38] <Ebiris> Meanwhile Mars grabs the Princess and drags her away from battle, shielding her with her own body as she tries to draw on her inner reserves.
[15:38] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:38] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[15:41] * Sailor_Moon makes a powerful leap towards the injured demon, holding her hands out in front of her. With a shout she releases a bolt of energy from her joined hands, the white beam lancing out to strike the creature's ruined face!
[15:41] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2
[15:41] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[15:41] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:41] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[15:42] <Ebiris> The blast strikes against the creature, causing it to stagger back, seemingly stunned!
[15:43] <Ebiris> Rising to her feet, Cynthia again tries to kill the Princess with a beam of evil black energy!
[15:43] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:43] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[15:45] <Ebiris> The Princess is in no shape to dodge from her current position, but Sailor Mars makes an effective shield. The raven-haired senshi of fire and passion cries out in pain as her body convulses from the shock!
[15:45] <Sailor_Moon> "Dammit! Mars!" Usagi shouts as she lands on her feet.
[15:46] <Ebiris> Mars is a little too preoccupied to reply with her usual acerbic wit right now...
[15:46] <Ebiris> OOC: Init
[15:46] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:46] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[15:46] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[15:46] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 16."
[15:46] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:46] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[15:47] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:47] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[15:47] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:47] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[15:47] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:47] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[15:49] <Sailor_Moon> 'I've got to take Cynthia out, she keeps focusing on... the Princess...' Usagi thinks to herself. She charges at the horned redhead, her foot lashing out towards the summoner's gut!
[15:49] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[15:49] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[15:50] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:50] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[15:50] <Ebiris> The booted heel of justice strikes true, knocking the wind out of Cynthia as she doubles up over your strike!
[15:52] <Ebiris> Cynthia backpedals from you, coughing up a fair amount of blood. She looks even paler than before, and is shaking quite a bit.
[15:53] <Ebiris> Recovering from her earlier mistake, Jupiter swings round again to brain the demon with her mace!
[15:53] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:53] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[15:53] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:53] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[15:53] <Ebiris> Again the injured creature is too slow to respond, its face becoming nothing more than a broken gory ruin under the senshi of thunder's ministrations!
[15:55] <Ebiris> Meanwhile Sailor Mars turns around, still using her body to shield the Princess and yells "Flame Burst!" shooting a spiralling fireball at the maimed demon!
[15:55] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:55] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[15:55] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:55] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[15:56] <Ebiris> While it tries to dodge, the creature is just a shade too slow, and suffers as almost it's entire torso is burnt to a charred mess. With a gurgling sigh, it collapses.
[15:56] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:56] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[15:57] <Ebiris> Showing precious little concern for either her safety or Mars' welfare, Princess Serenity shoves her protector clear off her body and rises to her feet. "Cynthia, you have to fight it! We need to put a stop to this!" she begs, again approaching the badly wounded and possessed redhead.
[15:58] <Ebiris> "Shut up!" Cynthia yells, "Just die you pathetic worm!" Raising her hand, she shoots off another blast of midnight energy at the Princess!
[15:58] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[15:58] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[15:59] <Ebiris> But her aim is errant, and only serves to create a large explosion on the corridor wall, showering dust and small pebbles of masonry everywhere!
[15:59] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[15:59] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 13."
[15:59] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:59] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[15:59] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[15:59] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[16:00] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[16:00] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[16:00] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[16:00] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[16:03] <Ebiris> Turning her attention from the downed corpse of the demon, Jupiter takes in the rest of the battle. Seeing Cynthia continuing to menace her Princess, she dashes towards the redhead, aiming a straight punch at her face!
[16:03] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:03] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[16:03] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:03] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[16:05] <Ebiris> There is a sickening crack as Cynthia's head is turned aside by the blow, and her body collapses bonelessly to the floor.
[16:06] * Sailor_Moon quickly rushes to Cynthia's side, checking the extent of the summoner's injuries as best she can.
[16:06] <Ebiris> "Cynthia!" Serenity shrieks, rushing forward herself to join you, sobbing as she goes.
[16:07] <Ebiris> Cynthia isn't breathing, and you can detect no pulse. You can feel her life energy is fading very quickly. If she isn't already dead, she will be very soon.
[16:08] * Sailor_Moon quickly jumps up. "Get clear, Princess!" Drawing forth the Lunar Rod once again, she twirls it in an attempt to heal the gravely wounded girl. "Moon Healing... Escalation!"
[16:09] <Ebiris> The Princess ignores you, only holding onto her doomed friend.
[16:09] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+4
[16:09] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+4 and gets 12."
[16:12] <Ebiris> Cynthia's eyes flash open, glowing crimson red. Moving like lightning, she grabs hold of the Princess and scurries backwards, using Serenity as a shield with a hand on the Princess' head. It's quite clear that she could break the girl's neck without too much difficulty.
[16:12] <Ebiris> "Cynthia, what are you doing?" Serenity asks, her voice wavering.
[16:13] <Ebiris> "Let go of her right now, you bitch!" Mars yells, getting to her feet.
[16:13] <Sailor_Moon> "Cynthia, let the Princess go!" Moon says, eyeing the redhead warily.
[16:16] <Ebiris> Instead of replying, Cynthia's eyes seem to glow even brighter, and another of the goat legged demons appears in a flash of green light beside her.
[16:16] <Ebiris> OOC: Init, now
[16:17] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[16:17] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[16:17] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[16:17] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[16:17] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+9
[16:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+9 and gets 11."
[16:18] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[16:18] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[16:18] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[16:18] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[16:18] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[16:18] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[16:21] <Ebiris> In a flash, two ornate sticks of polished wood appear in Sailor Mars' hands. She twirls them briefly like batons as they appear before levelling them at Cynthia and the Princess, flames beginning to dance off their surface. But then she just stands there, unable to risk firing without a clear shot. Her eyes briefly flicker to Jupiter's in an unspoken message.
[16:21] <Ebiris> Jupiter is unfortunately preoccupied as the Baron lunges for her, grappling her with its powerful arms!
[16:21] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:21] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[16:21] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:21] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[16:22] <Ebiris> The two match their strength against each other, senshi versus demon, with no clear winner. But it has served to take Jupiter out of the fight for now...
[16:23] <Ebiris> Serenity only stares forward with a petrified expression, unable to even move.
[16:25] * Sailor_Moon closes her eyes in concentration, forming an extremely thin layer of energy between Cynthia and the princess under tight control. Once it has reached a sufficient size, she releases it, the force attempting to blow the two women away from each other!
[16:26] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+4
[16:26] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+4 and gets 11."
[16:27] <Ebiris> No one except you can see the thin film of energy as it forms, but the effects are immediately apparent, with both girls been blown apart with tremendous force! Cynthia goes flying into the debris created by your earlier Halation, while Serenity...
[16:27] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[16:27] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[16:28] <Ebiris> Serenity goes skidding along the floor to stop at your feet, her white dress utterly drenched in blood.
[16:29] <Ebiris> Cynthia groggily picks herself up, the effects of your healing seeming almost gone. She drips blood from a multitude of cuts, and her exposed skin is mostly black and blue.
[16:31] <Ebiris> "Now die, you bitch!" Mars yells, advancing as the flames around her two wands intensify, seeming to feed off each other in flowing spirals of fire dancing between the them.
[16:31] <Ebiris> "Rei, no!" Serenity screams, scrabbling to her knees.
[16:31] <Sailor_Moon> "Don't kill her!" Usagi shouts.
[16:31] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:31] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:34] <Ebiris> Mars stops, looking torn. "Princess!" she turns a pleading look at Serenity, "How can you think of her after all of this?! The Palace is a slaughterhouse because of her! She nearly killed you!" tears slip down Mars' cheeks as she jabs a wand accusingly in Cynthia's direction while staring at Serenity.
[16:35] <Ebiris> "It wasn't her! Cynthia would never do this, never hurt me!" Serenity shouts back, just as emotional, "She can't help what happened to her, but we have to help her!"
[16:35] <Sailor_Moon> "We will, Princess, but you HAVE to stay clear of her, understand?" Moon says quietly but forcefully.
[16:36] <Ebiris> Cynthia only glares at you all hatefully. You can tell that her energy reserves are almost totally gone.
[16:36] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:36] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[16:36] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:36] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:37] <Ebiris> Jupiter grunts as she briefly gets the upper hand, breaking the demon's forearm as she continues her battle with it!
[16:38] * Sailor_Moon holds out one hand, forming a sphere of brilliant white energy in it as she stares at Cynthia. "Mars, help Jupiter. I'll watch Cynthia."
[16:39] <Ebiris> Mars nods, going to help her friend by jabbing her two wands into the demon's back and unleashing a burning torrent of flames into it!
[16:39] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:39] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[16:39] <Ebiris> The creature howls in agony, becoming distracted from it's battle with Jupiter!
[16:39] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:39] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[16:39] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:39] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[16:40] * Sailor_Moon moves forward a couple of paces, making sure that she's between Serenity and Cynthia. "Don't try anything, Cynthia. I don't want to kill you, but I'm not going to let you hurt Serenity either."
[16:40] <Ebiris> This time the Jovian senshi is able to completely overpower the wounded monster, shattering it's spine and leaving it a mangled corpse on the floor!
[16:41] <Ebiris> Cynthia hisses at you. "Shut up! You might have the upper hand now, but the legions of Dis are infinite! There is no way you can prevail!"
[16:41] * Sailor_Moon waits for one of the other two to return. "That's where you're wrong."
[16:43] <Ebiris> Jupiter and Mars both take up positions beside you, ready to guard the Princess, but trusting that either you or her will be able to get through to Cynthia. So long as the summoner doesn't make any hostile moves, that is...
[16:44] <Ebiris> You can sense Cynthia's energy is replenishing at an accelerated rate, no doubt being fed by the gate. She's still very low, but she won't be for too long...
[16:44] * Sailor_Moon glances over at her companions. "I'm going to close the gate." She lowers her voice so that Cynthia can't hear her. "Serenity, talk to her if you want, but STAY BACK. Jupiter, Mars, she's recovering energy fast, so I've GOT to get that gate closed. Watch her carefully, all right?"
[16:46] <Ebiris> "She won't get near the Princess again," Jupiter swears.
[16:47] * Sailor_Moon faces Cynthia, energy held at the ready as she passes the summoner and enters the young noblewoman's study.
[16:47] <Ebiris> "Please, Cynthia!" Serenity begs, her voice desperate now, "Please don't do this, don't prove everyone right with what they said about you!" she continues tearfully.
[16:48] <Ebiris> Cynthia ignores Serenity, though you notice a small spike in her energy as you get within about two metres of the redhead.
[16:50] * Sailor_Moon keeps her face towards Cynthia, never taking her eyes off the possessed redhead as she moves past the girl.
[16:52] <Ebiris> As you pass her, a blast of dark mist erupts from Cynthia's hands, pointed at the ground. The mist quickly rises, filling the corridor for only a few metres around you and Cynthia, but creating impenetrable blackness there. Your own energy sphere only lights up a few inches around your hand.
[16:53] <Sailor_Moon> 'Damn it!' Finding her eyes useless, Usagi extends her aura sense to try to get a better idea of the redhead's location.
[16:54] <Ebiris> She's hobbling along down the corridor away from you and the other senshi. In the direction of her study. Her injuries mean that she isn't moving very fast, though, and hasn't gotten more than a few metres from you.
[16:55] * Sailor_Moon shakes her head and hurls the sphere of energy in her hand at the summoner. 'I didn't want to have to do this...'
[16:55] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[16:55] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:56] <Ebiris> You sense Cynthia fall as the enrgy impacts into her. Her life energy rapidly dimming even more from it's current state.
[16:57] <Ebiris> The dark mist is already dissipating.
[16:57] * Sailor_Moon runs towards her sense of the gate, shouting to the other senshi as she goes. "Cynthia's down! Get a doctor down here, and get Serenity out of here!"
[17:00] <Ebiris> You hear words of assent, but pay them no mind as you race towards the gate to hell. You are very close... in fact it's just behind a door up ahead on the right hand side of corridor you just turned into. But before you go there, you'll have to do something about the zombified guardsman shambling towards you, glowing Halberd at the ready. This one looks to be even more messed up than the last ones you fought, though...
[17:00] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[17:00] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[17:00] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[17:00] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+9
[17:00] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+9 and gets 14."
[17:01] * Sailor_Moon swings the Lunar Rod around like a mace, aiming to catch the zombie in the side of the head. "I don't have TIME for this!"
[17:01] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[17:01] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[17:01] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[17:01] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:01] <Ebiris> The zombie gives a muffled sigh as you cave in the side of it's head. It falls and doesn't get up.
[17:02] * Sailor_Moon bursts into the study, studying the gate in front of her.
[17:03] <Ebiris> The study looks to be a real mess. The many bookcases lining the walls have been overturned and splintered, while several braziers have been toppled, starting small fires here and there. In the large open space where Cynthia conducted her experiments, lies the gate...
[17:07] <Ebiris> The ebony floor is covered in intricate mandalas drawn in chalk, ash, and blood. They seem to swirl and dance before your eyes, making your head spin. A hemispherical dome of greenish energy hangs over the entire design.
[17:08] <Ebiris> Suspended above the floor and beneath the dome lies the gate itself. A 'rip' in space, that from a certain angle you can almost see through... leading to the hellish realm of Dis.
[17:09] <Ebiris> A bookstand sits atop a granite slab in front of the domed gate, the large leather bound tome atop it open to a page that looks to have a diagram of the very same gate.
[17:17] * Sailor_Moon shakes her head. "Cynthia..." She quickly crosses the room to where the book lies open, scanning the page for any way to close the portal without forcing it closed.
[17:19] <Ebiris> The book itself is in some strange language you don't recognise. By you do recognise Cynthia's handwriting in little scribbled notes all over the page. They seem to describe the order that certain passages must be read to safely open the gate. Either Cynthia was mistaken, or she just couldn't read her own handwriting...
[17:20] <Ebiris> You do remember Cynthia once telling you that simply doing an incantation in reverse was normally enough to reverse a summoning gate.
[17:21] * Sailor_Moon takes a deep breath. "I hope this works..." Letting the transformation of Sailor Moon leave her, she once again returns to the guise of Princess Serenity and takes her place in front of the bookstand, preparing to reverse the incantation - at least in the order that Cynthia has it laid out.
[17:21] * Sailor_Moon is now known as Serenity-hime
[17:22] <Ebiris> Failing that, disrupting the mandalas would often shut down a gate, though often with disastrous results, as Cynthia warned you many times.
[17:23] <Ebiris> OOC: Mind check
[17:23] <Serenity-hime> roll 2d6 (20 EP burn for Mind of 10)
[17:23] * Hatbot --> "Serenity-hime rolls 2d6 (20 EP burn for Mind of 10) and gets 7."
[17:25] <Ebiris> You read through the passages, not slipping once over the archaic and unfamiliar dialect used. As you go through them, the green dome shimmers and disappears, an invisible blast of energy buffeting you as it vanishes.
[17:25] <Ebiris> OOC: Body check, -2
[17:26] <Serenity-hime> roll 2d6-2
[17:26] * Hatbot --> "Serenity-hime rolls 2d6-2 and gets 1."
[17:27] <Ebiris> You are able to stand firm against the invisible winds, continuing to read the passages, your voice unconsciously rising to be heard over a muted but escalating roar starting to come from the gate.
[17:27] <Ebiris> OOC: Soul check
[17:27] <Serenity-hime> roll 2d6
[17:27] * Hatbot --> "Serenity-hime rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[17:29] <Ebiris> As you read the final passage, there is an audible whoosing sound of... something, being sucked through the gate as it folds in on itself. Closing your eyes against a bright flash of light, you open them to see the jet black floor is completely bare of all traces of the gate, and the demonic taint you felt all over the palace has vanished.
[17:29] * Serenity-hime lets out a deep sigh, leaning heavily against the stone podium. "Thank god..."
[17:33] * Serenity-hime takes a couple of minutes to rest, the adrenaline slowly draining out of her system. Once she's managed to compose herself, she heads back out into the corridors, looking for Cynthia in the place where the summoner had last fallen.
[17:35] <Ebiris> As you reach the junction at the corner where you saw Cynthia last, you see a trail of blood and red footprints leading away. There is no sign of anyone back amongst all the debris from the earlier battle.
[17:36] * Serenity-hime follows the footprints, a sinking sensation in her chest. 'I hope she'll be all right...' She can't, however, shake off the memory of Cynthia's death - far from now, and in much different circumstances than this.
[17:38] <Ebiris> You pass more evidence of battle as you go, though there are no demon corpses, or even demon blood in evidence. Only the fallen of the Moon Kingdom litter these halls...
[17:38] * Serenity-hime shakes her head as she sees all those who lost their lives in the defense of the palace. "My god... how many died?" she whispers to herself.
[17:42] <Ebiris> "Less than would have were it not for your intervention, Sailor Moon," a familiar voice says wistfully, coming from right behind you. "Though I suppose in a year's time it will hardly matter..."
[17:43] * Serenity-hime turns quickly, wondering who would know of her as Sailor Moon.
[17:44] <Ebiris> The mysterious senshi of time stands before you, Garnet Rod held loosely in one hand. She quirks an eyebrow at you expectantly, waiting for your inevitable outburst of questions that she obviously knows is coming.
[17:45] <Serenity-hime> "Setsuna...." Usagi says quietly. A thousand questions rush to her mind all at once, but one comes to the forefront and stays there. "Why am I here?"
[17:46] <Ebiris> "Because you were supposed to be," Pluto answers simply.
[17:47] <Serenity-hime> "But... I don't remember any of this! There wasn't any Sailor Moon on the day when Cynthia had her 'accident' - and I just saw Serenity not ten minutes ago!"
[17:49] <Ebiris> "That may be true of what you remember, but it is not true of this timeline. And your actions are more significant than perhaps you realise," she says, her expression becoming slightly distant.
[17:50] <Serenity-hime> "I don't understand... what do you mean?" Usagi says somewhat sharply, then droops. "Sorry, I don't mean to snap at you, but it's been a REALLY long day."
[17:51] <Ebiris> "Yes, but our part in these events is done with. It is time for us to leave," Pluto says, holding the time key more rigidly as you feel power begin to build around her.
[17:52] <Serenity-hime> "You mean right now? But I wanted to at least say goodbye to Mother..."
[17:54] <Ebiris> Pluto gives you an apologetic look, "I am sorry, but it would be best if you did not remain here any longer." She doesn't explain herself any more beyond that.
[17:56] <Serenity-hime> "But..." Usagi deflates. "All right, if you're sure."
[17:58] <Ebiris> "I am," Pluto says, knocking the butt of her staff on the ground and enveloping you both in pink mist as you are transported back to 20th Century Earth...
[18:00] * Serenity-hime feels a wave of dizziness wash over her as Pluto gestures with her staff, the pink mist around her swirling in a very disorienting manner.
[18:02] <Ebiris> When you refocus, you find yourself lying in your bed back in your own room. A glance at the clock shows it to be 8.20am.
[18:03] <Ebiris> "Usagi! Hurry up and get out of bed! You've missed breakfast and you'll be late for school!" you hear Ikkuko yelling.
[18:03] * Serenity-hime is now known as Usagi-chan
[18:04] * Usagi-chan groans. "Great timing, Setsuna...." Wearily the exhausted blonde struggles out of bed, feeling like she's just finished fighting a war - which she sort of has.
[18:04] <Ebiris> ---------
[18:04] <Ebiris> THE END

[Halbarad]

This one turned out to be a lot of fun. Someone's out to get Rei-chan!

[14:11] <Halbarad> -----
[14:13] <Halbarad> Life has settled back down into a regular routine for Rei after the return from the other dimension. Usagi has continued to work with the Professor to seal the barriers between worlds, however, leaving her pale and tired for much of the time - a source of no small worry for the miko.
[14:14] <Halbarad> Whether from this reason or for something else, she finds herself awakening in the wee hours of the morning one Friday.
[14:14] * Rei-chan sits up, rubbing her eyes and looking at her alarm clock.
[14:15] <Halbarad> The clock reads 2:23 AM. Just as you sit up, you hear a sharp splintering noise to your right, and your pillow emits a puff of downy feathers.
[14:17] <Rei-chan> Battle honed reflexes kicking in, Rei tosses her blanket up and rolls off the bed in an instant! Warily looking around while trying to remain under cover from whatever just tried to kill her, she also attempts to sense her foe via her sixth sense.
[14:19] <Halbarad> Whoever it was, you can't detect them straight off the bat - there are a few faint impressions of people nearby aside from your grandfather, but nothing other than that. As you look around, something just grazes your left ear, and another splintering noise splits the night a moment later.
[14:22] <Rei-chan> Deciding to get outside where she'll have more room to maneuver - and getting an awful sinking feeling that this isn't the usual kind of monster attack she deals with, Rei telekinetically shoves open her door as she dives out into the night air!
[14:22] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6-4
[14:22] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6-4 and gets 5."
[14:24] <Halbarad> As you do so, you spot a muzzle flash from a rooftop easily five hundred meters away. (OOC: Dodge roll)
[14:25] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[14:25] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[14:25] <Rei-chan> do-over!
[14:25] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[14:25] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[14:25] <Halbarad> You barely manage to twist aside, the bullet tearing a hole in the arm of your pajamas!
[14:28] <Rei-chan> Guessing that her assailant is using some sort of thermal imaging device to track her in the pitch black of night, and through her bedroom wall, Rei heats up the air around herself as much as possible without igniting an actual fire. Dashing into the wooded area to her right as she does this, she also extends a similar zone of heat to the left to hopefully throw her attacker off.
[14:28] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[14:28] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[14:29] <Halbarad> There are no more shots fired as you dodge into the woods, the temperature around the shrine rising to a level that would be uncomfortable for most normal people rapidly.
[14:33] <Rei-chan> Ducking behind a stout tree that offers ample coverage between herself and the sniper, Rei leans her back against it and very swiftly falls into a meditative trance, projecting herself to the rooftop where she saw the muzzle flash.
[14:35] <Halbarad> You do so quickly.... as you send your spirit to the rooftop, you can see a man dressed entirely in black, from head to toe, hastily disassembling a high-powered sniper rifle and jamming the parts into a small duffel bag at his side rapidly, cursing quietly as he does so.
[14:38] <Rei-chan> Keeping her astral form invisible, Rei floats closer to her mysterious attacker, looking for anything at all she could use to identify him or who he's working for,
[14:39] <Halbarad> His clothing is completely unmarked, and his face is concealed by a black ski mask - the only thing you can tell is that he has brown eyes, and he doesn't look to be Japanese.
[14:42] * Rei-chan mentally weighs the pros and cons of either following this man back to his employers like this, leaving her body nearly defenceless back at the Shrine, or attempting to question him now and revealing an ability they probably don't know she has. Then she hits on inspiration. Still not revealing her presence, she telekinetically focuses on squeezing the man's windpipe shut to cut off his oxygen and make him pass out.
[14:42] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6 burning 20 EP
[14:42] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 burning 20 EP and gets 7."
[14:43] <Halbarad> The man clutches his throat, the small amount of skin visible around his eyes and neck going bright crimson rather quickly. He struggles for several moments, then slumps over unconscious on top of the duffel bag.
[14:44] * Haruka is now known as Liddo-kun
[14:45] <Rei-chan> Nodding in satisfaction, Rei promptly returns to her physical form and takes out her communicator, calling Luna as she begins to roofhop from the Shrine to the sniper's rooftop.
[14:46] <Halbarad> The communicator beeps for a few moments before the black Mau answers. "Rei? What are you doing calling at this time of night?" she asks.
[14:47] <Rei-chan> "Someone just tried to kill me, Luna. Wake up Usagi and tell her to come to where I am. And warn the others too - I don't know if I'm the only one targeted," the miko answers tersely.
[14:48] <Halbarad> "What... how?" Luna shakes her head. "Never mind, it can wait. I'll get Usagi up right away," Luna agrees. "Be careful, Rei." With that the communicator goes silent, just as you land on the sniper's rooftop.
[14:49] <Rei-chan> Confirming that he's still unconscious, Rei searches his body for any obvious weapons as she waits for Usagi to arrive.
[14:52] <Halbarad> A telltale bulge in the man's shirt betrays the presence of a gun in a shoulder holster, in addition to a large combat knife in a sheath on his belt.
[14:53] * Rei-chan takes both weapons and dumps them in the duffel bag with the rifle, intending to take them with her when Usagi arrives.
[14:57] <Halbarad> It's a good ten minutes before Usagi arrives, the blonde in senshi guise and looking very worried. "Rei! Are you all right? What happened?" she blurts out in a rush.
[14:59] <Rei-chan> "I'm fine," Rei nods tiredly. "Probably have to fix up my room when I get back, but that's for later..." Hefting the duffelbag full of weapons, she gestures at the assassin, "Can you teleport us to the Moon? I'd feel safer sleeping up there, and I'd like to keep this bozo where I can keep an eye on him."
[15:01] <Halbarad> "Of course - Luna called the others, so they're taking precautions. I don't know exactly WHAT, but they said they'd take care of themselves." Usagi moves over towards Rei, and the three are teleported up to the library on the Moon a few seconds later.
[15:02] <Rei-chan> Dumping off the duffel bag - she hardly needs to worry about anyone who comes here getting access to guns considering what they're normally capable of, Rei hefts the assassin over her shoulders. "Oohf, heavy guy," she grumbles, "Anyway, let's get him down in the dungeon so we can deal with him in the morning."
[15:06] <Halbarad> Usagi nods, leading the way down into the bowels of the palace. The would-be assassin is quickly deposited in one of the cells, still out cold.
[15:08] <Rei-chan> Making sure the cell is secure, Rei nods her satisfaction. "Okay, he can stew there until morning. We'll find out why he tried to kill me then."
[15:09] <Halbarad> The blonde grabs Rei's arms now that the immediate crisis is over, giving her a worried look. "Are you all right? What happened?" She reaches up to touch Rei's ear, coming away with a bit of blood on the fingertip of her glove. "You're bleeding!"
[15:09] <Rei-chan> "I am?" Rei touches a hand to her ear, hoping it's just a graze and she isn't missing any chunks. "I did feel something, but thought it just missed me... although if I hadn't woken up when I did..."
[15:11] <Halbarad> Usagi murmurs briefly, reaching up to touch Rei's ear again. A cool, soothing sensation passes over it, quelling the stinging feeling that was just starting to make itself known. "So what actually happened? Who IS that guy?"
[15:13] <Rei-chan> "I've no clue," Rei admits. "Just that I woke up and someone was shooting at me. I ran outside and saw the muzzle flash from a faraway rooftop, so I took cover in the woods and projected myself out to where the sniper was. It wasn't hard to knock him out then." Leading Usagi back up through the palace towards their room, the miko frowns, "We'll get answers tomorrow, and I'm sure I won't like them."
[15:14] <Halbarad> Usagi detransforms as the pair enters their bedroom, revealing her to be dressed only in her pajamas. She grabs Rei in a tight hug. "I'm just glad you're safe, Rei-chan... I was so worried when Luna woke me up and said you were in trouble."
[15:15] * Rei-chan relaxes into Usagi's embrace. "It's not the kind of thing I'm used to fighting, that's for sure," the also pajama-clad girl replies.
[15:17] <Halbarad> The blonde princess sits down on the edge of the bed a few moments later, sighing. "Why would anyone be trying to shoot you though?" she asks. "I mean, we know everyone who knows your identity and none of them have any reason to try to kill you."
[15:18] <Rei-chan> "Someone else must have found out," Rei says darkly as she gets into bed herself. "I can't imagine anyone going to that trouble to off Rei Hino, but someone must have reason to get at Sailor Mars."
[15:19] <Halbarad> "Yeah, but why? I mean, it's not like we've ever hurt any regular people - well, not intentionally at least. And how did they find out about you?" Usagi looks very unhappy as she goes over the possibilities.
[15:22] * Rei-chan sighs tiredly. "I didn't know when Father found out about me. There's no way to know until we talk to that guy." She lies back, hands clasped behind her head, "As for why... there's really no telling. I guess that's another question to ask mr sniper."
[15:25] <Halbarad> Usagi lays down next to the miko, wrapping one arm around her. "I guess we'll find out in the morning then," she says,. holding on to Rei like she wants to make sure she's really there.
[15:25] <Halbarad> -----
[15:26] <Halbarad> Morning rolls around as it always does, although without the fanfare of sunrise on the Moon. Rei wakes, finding Usagi sleeping fitfully with one arm still draped around her waist.
[15:28] <Rei-chan> Waking up, Rei enjoys an all too brief lie in with her love, pretending such things as gun-toting assassins haven't been introduced to their world of overpowered magical monsters and insane cackling villians. After about ten minutes she carefully gets up and goes to perform her ablutions in the bathroom.
[15:28] <Halbarad> Usagi stirs almost as soon as you get up. "Rei...?" she half mumbles, sitting up just as Rei reaches the bathroom door.
[15:29] <Rei-chan> "Morning," Rei calls, pausing by the door.
[15:31] <Halbarad> Usagi yawns cavernously. "Morning," she says, clambering out of bed. The miko finds herself the recipient of a very nice good-morning kiss, despite the fact that both participants have morning breath.
[15:32] * Rei-chan returns the kiss lazily before parting, her arms around Usagi's waist. "Come on, let's get cleaned up," she says, guiding the blonde into the bathroom.
[15:33] <Halbarad> She follows Rei into the bathroom eagerly, the two taking their time about their morning preparations. Eventually, though, two clean and dressed senshi exit the bedroom, headed down towards the palace dungeon. "I still wish that had just been a nightmare," Usagi says with a frown. "I almost thought it WAS just a nightmare when I woke up this morning."
[15:35] <Rei-chan> "I just hope we can get to the bottom of this," Rei frowns. "I'd rather not live up here just yet, but if I'm constantly having to dodge bullets..." she trails off with a sigh as they near the dungeon. "Might be a good idea if you kept out of sight, here. Don't want him being able to identify you if he can't already."
[15:36] <Halbarad> Usagi nods. "I'll stay just outside... yell if you need any help, all right?" As she finishes, the two enter the hallway containing the sniper's cell.
[15:37] <Rei-chan> "Will do," Rei nods as she proceeds to the cell they dropped her assailant off in last night.
[15:39] <Halbarad> The assassin appears to still be asleep  as you peek through the barred door to the cell.
[15:40] <Rei-chan> "Wake up," Rei calls, rapping her knuckles on the bars.
[15:41] <Halbarad> The man stirs after a few moments, sending Rei a cold glare.
[15:46] <Rei-chan> "Oh, please," Rei snorts disdainfully, "You're the one who shot at me. You've got no one to blame but yourself for being like this."
[15:47] <Halbarad> The man makes no reply, simply maintaining his glare at the raven-haired miko.
[15:48] <Rei-chan> "Can I at least get a name to go with that attitude?" Rei asks coldly.
[15:49] <Halbarad> "I ain't sayin' nothin'," the man replies in heavily American-accented Japanese.
[15:49] <Rei-chan> "No? Not even why you'd use a high powered sniper rifle to kill an innocent schoolgirl?" Rei asks dubiously.
[15:50] <Halbarad> The man just crosses his arms, still staring at Rei. "I want my phone call and my lawyer, and that's all I'm gonna say."
[15:51] <Rei-chan> "Do I look like the police?" Rei snorts again. "You're getting nothing."
[15:52] <Halbarad> He scowls. "Neither are you then. I don't have to tell you nothin'."
[15:53] * Rei-chan gives him a catty smile. "Well, I suppose I could come back in a few days and give you some food in exchange for answers?"
[15:53] <Halbarad> He narrows his eyes, not saying a word.
[15:54] <Rei-chan> "Suit yourself," Rei smiles, brimming with false cheer as she saunters away. Her expression swiftly turns into a scowl once away from the cell as she returns to Usagi.
[15:54] <Halbarad> "Anything?" Usagi asks glumly, having caught the look on Rei's face.
[15:55] <Rei-chan> "He's not talking," Rei shakes her head. "But we've only just started. I think we should pay Tellu a visit, now."
[15:56] <Halbarad> Usagi gives Rei a curious look. "Why Tellu?"
[15:57] * Rei-chan smirks. "If anyone knows how to make a truth serum, it's her."
[15:57] <Halbarad> She giggles at that. "Are you really going to do that?"
[15:58] <Rei-chan> "It's either that or wait a few days for hunger to make him crack," Rei shrugs. "I'd prefer answers quickly so we can deal with the source of this problem."
[15:59] <Halbarad> Usagi nods. "I'll take us right to school then." And so she does, the two girls appearing in the Witches' office a few moments later. School has already started by this point, so the two find themselves alone in the office as they appear.
[16:00] <Rei-chan> "Okay, let's see..." Rei goes over to the green-haired witch's desk to take a look at her class schedule.
[16:01] <Halbarad> It takes a few moments of searching to find the schedule, but Rei manages to find the list within a minute or so. The first class listed is cellular biology, in one of the labs up on the first floor.
[16:02] <Rei-chan> "Okay, she's in biology right now. I'll go fetch her," Rei says, starting out the office and up to the first floor.
[16:05] <Halbarad> Usagi nods, settling down to wait at her own desk as Rei heads out of the office. The walk is fairly uneventful until you reach the first floor, your path taking you near the front doors of the school. As you turn into the hallway leading towards Tellu's classroom, a pair of men in dark suits enter the school, immediately heading in Rei's direction once they catch sight of her.
[16:06] <Rei-chan> 'Shit!' Rei mentally curses, swiftly turning around and going back the way she came at a rapid pace, while trying to make it appear that she isn't running - until she turns the corner out of their sight at which point she bolts.
[16:06] <Halbarad> You can hear the men start to run behind you. As they round the corner, one of them calls out to you. "Miss Hino, wait!"
[16:08] <Rei-chan> 'Yeah, like hell,' Rei thinks, dashing for the nearest secure door to the lower levels and inputting her witches access code in a rush.
[16:08] <Halbarad> roll 2#2d6
[16:08] * Hatbot --> "Halbarad rolls 2#2d6 and gets 9, 5."
[16:09] <Halbarad> One of the men lags behind, but the other puts on a burst of speed, catching Rei's arm just as she tries to slip through the door. "Stop! We're not going to hurt you!" the man says somewhat roughly.
[16:11] * Rei-chan yanks her arm away and backs off, warily eyeing the men for any attempt to produce firearms. "I don't see how you can prove that," she replies tightly.
[16:12] <Halbarad> The second man presses a button on a walkie-talkie strapped to his waist, speaking into a small microphone on his lapel. "We've found her, sir, she's at the school. ... No, sir, I don't know how she got here. .... Understood, we'll hold her until you arrive."
[16:12] <Halbarad> The first man simply frowns at you. "Perhaps not, but if we were going to harm you we could have easily done so by now."
[16:14] <Rei-chan> "You could certainly try," Rei doesn't quite agree. "But assuming you're not with the sniper from last night, then who?" she asks, although she already has a firm suspicion.
[16:15] <Halbarad> "Dietman Hino has been looking for you since the early hours of the morning," the second man pipes up. "He's on his way here now - we'll make sure you stay safe until you can speak with him."
[16:16] * Rei-chan nods at her suspicion being confirmed. 'Usagi, I never got to Tellu's classroom - some men working for my Father are with me now,' she sends to the blonde downstairs while remaining outwardly silent.
[16:17] <Halbarad> 'Your father?' Usagi sends back, sounding surprised. 'What do they want?'
[16:18] <Rei-chan> 'To protect me...' Rei frowns slightly, 'I didn't actually think of it, but maybe that sniper had nothing to do with me being Sailor Mars? What if it's someone trying to get at my Father?'
[16:19] <Halbarad> 'You think so? I didn't think about that either,' Usagi sends back somewhat thoughtfully. 'Do you want me to come up there?'
[16:20] <Rei-chan> 'Best if you just sit tight for now,' the miko recommends. 'I'll keep you updated on what's happening with me.'
[16:21] <Halbarad> 'All right,' Usagi sends back. 'Let me know if anything happens, okay?' With that the blonde falls silent. After perhaps three or four minutes of waiting in silence with the agents, the second one puts his hand to his earpiece, then speaks. "The dietman is here. If you'd come with us, Miss Hino?" he says, not really making it a request.
[16:22] * Rei-chan nods, waiting for them to lead the way so she can keep an eye on both of them.
[16:23] <Halbarad> Unfortunately they don't quite cooperate, the one with the radio leading the way while the other falls into step behind Rei. In just a few minutes the three exit the school to see a large black limousine parked outside. Radio Guy opens the back door for Rei, motioning for her to step inside.
[16:25] * Rei-chan does so, keeping all her senses alert for any kind of attack that could happen outside the comparitively safe confines of Mugen.
[16:26] <Halbarad> Rei's father sits alone in the back seat of the limo, the door closing behind Rei as soon as she takes a seat. "Where the hell have you been?" Hino snaps, his usually cold, collected demeanor gone in favor of anger.
[16:27] <Rei-chan> "Someplace where no snipers can shoot me in my sleep!" Rei fires back. "I don't suppose you'd know anything about that?"
[16:28] <Halbarad> Hino glowers at that. "I wish I didn't," he replies. "I didn't hear about it until almost 3:30 this morning, but I do already know who's behind it." He scowls at that.
[16:29] <Rei-chan> "You do?" Rei perks up, 'Looks like we don't need to interrogate mr sniper - Father says he knows who's behind it.'
[16:31] <Halbarad> 'That's good, I guess,' Usagi sends back. Hino snorts. "Kurosawa." He practically spits the name out. "His secretary was overheard giving the sniper his orders late last night, but apparently no one noticed it until early this morning when I had them review the tapes."
[16:32] <Rei-chan> "Who's Kurosawa?" Rei asks intelligently.
[16:34] <Halbarad> "Someone you don't want to run into," Hino begins. "You know I'm in charge of the committee overseeing the investigation into the senshi." At Rei's nod, he goes on. "Kurosawa's been my main opponent on the committee. So far I've advocated a 'wait-and-see' policy with regards to the senshi, mainly to prevent any further exposure."
[16:34] <Rei-chan> "Does he know who I am, or was he just getting at me because I'm your daughter?" Rei clarifies worriedly.
[16:35] <Halbarad> "He knows," Hino says with a frown. "I don't know how, but somehow he managed to get his hands on some of the pictures I showed you a few months ago. He's been using it as leverage against me to push his own agenda through the committee."
[16:36] * Rei-chan groans, rubbing her temples. "Great. And I take it his agenda involves dissecting us or something?"
[16:39] <Halbarad> "Lucky guess," Hino says with a frown. "His main push is to have the senshi captured and examined so that we can produce our own team for these threats, one that will be under our control." He gives Rei a slight frown at that. "Unfortunately, because he's been forcing me to stay quiet his suggestions have been starting to gain ground among the other committee members."
[16:41] <Rei-chan> "And I'm sure it wouldn't do our reputation with the government any favours if we were to deal with him like he deserves," Rei observes sourly. "Dirty bastard. Am I the only one who's identity is known?"
[16:43] <Halbarad> "So far as I know - yours is the only one who I've found out about, at least. If he knows who any of the others are, I don't know about it."He pauses for a moment. "I suppose it is possible," he says after a moment's thought, digging out a small notebook from the inside pocket of his suit and consulting it. "The sniper was told to... deal with you, then monitor this address for any signs of activity." He hands the notebook over to Rei.
[16:43] * Rei-chan takes the notebook and looks at the address.
[16:44] <Halbarad> It's Usagi's home address, although no name is listed. "I've sent men over to check out the address myself, but it just seems to be a normal house from what we've seen so far." Hino gives his daughter an appraising look, as if expecting her to fill things in.
[16:46] <Rei-chan> "That's Usagi's address. She's a friend of mine but has nothing to do with this," Rei hopes her acting skills are up to snuff. After all, Kurosawa discovered her own identity through her father. Best not to take any chances.
[16:46] <Halbarad> OOC: Mind check.
[16:47] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[16:47] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[16:49] <Halbarad> You think your father is satisfied with that answer; he leans back in his seat with a noncommital grunt. "Anyway, by the time I got word of what was going on all we had to go on were reports of three gunshots near Hikawa Shrine and two bullet holes in the wall of your bedroom. Both you and the sniper had vanished without a trace." Another penetrating look.
[16:50] * Rei-chan nods. "I dealt with the sniper and decided sticking around my home after that wasn't a very smart thing to do."
[16:52] <Halbarad> He frowns at that. "A wise move, but where did you go? I've had people watching the Shrine and Mugen since 4 am and there was no sign of you entering or leaving either location until you were spotted inside the school."
[16:55] <Rei-chan> "Mugen has quite a few secret entrances that aren't too near the main school building. They aren't used all that often, so I wouldn't expect an assassin to know about them," Rei answers, most certainly not lying at all.
[16:56] <Halbarad> "Be that as it may, I want you staying with me until this is dealt with," Hino replies curtly. "You'll be safer with my security than anywhere else until this has been settled."
[16:58] <Rei-chan> "How exactly ARE you going to settle it, Father?" Rei asks, giving him a penetrating look.
[16:59] <Halbarad> He puts on a cold smile at that. "Kurosawa's tipped his hand by going this far. All it'll take is a little push and he'll go down like a house of cards." He appears to relish the thought quite a bit.
[17:00] <Rei-chan> "And what's to keep him revealing what he knows as he goes down?"
[17:01] <Halbarad> "The fact that he's stooped to something this low will ruin his credibility," Hino replies easily. "It should be simple to discredit any claims he makes, other than some close scrutiny for you perhaps."
[17:03] * Rei-chan looks thoughtful. "I guess that makes sense. Um... will you need that sniper to testify or anything?"
[17:03] <Halbarad> Hino raises an eyebrow at that. "You know where he is?"
[17:04] <Rei-chan> "I took him prisoner," Rei responds. "He wasn't very cooperative when I tried questioning him, though."
[17:05] <Halbarad> OOC: Another mind check, please.
[17:05] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[17:05] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[17:06] <Halbarad> Hino's eyes flicker for a moment, then he nods very slightly. "Where is he now? Inside the school somewhere, I assume?"
[17:09] <Rei-chan> "He's well secured," Rei responds evasively, while mentally filling Usagi in on the Kurosawa situation, stressing the fact that while no one else's identity has been confirmed, she is under suspicion herself.
[17:12] <Halbarad> Usagi listens attentively. 'So they suspect me now? Just great,' she thinks with a mental sigh. Hino's face tightens at the evasive answer, but he doesn't press the issue further. "I'll send two men with you to take him into custody, then," he says shortly. "In the meantime, I need to set things in motion back at my office." His face finally softens a bit as he looks at Rei. "You aren't hurt, are you?"
[17:16] <Rei-chan> "A bullet grazed my ear, but Sailor Moon healed it," Rei says, brushing a finger against said lobe. "If we go back to the school now we can pick up the sniper, although you'll probably want to transport him in a more secure vehicle."
[17:18] <Halbarad> The dietman nods very slightly, and you think you see the vaguest flicker of relief flit across his face.. "I'll have a squad car sent out once we get back, then. And there will be a driver here to pick you up once school is out."
[17:22] <Rei-chan> "I doubt I'll attend classes today - I don't even have my uniform," Rei notes, gesturing at her current attire, "But it's probably best for me to stay out of sight there anyway." Rei sits still for a moment before looking askance at her father with an almost hopeful expression. "So... I'll be staying with you until this is over?"
[17:23] <Halbarad> "For a few days, yes." Hino says curtly. "Once Kurosawa's been dealt with, you can go back to the shrine."
[17:24] <Rei-chan> "Yeah..." Rei's expression falls ever so slightly. "I guess it'll be odd for us to be living together again after all this time..." she notes as an afterthought.
[17:27] <Halbarad> Rei's father makes no comment to that, although his face hardens just a bit more. Rei feels the limo pull to a stop, and the dietman nods to her. "We're back at Mugen. Kazuya and Jun will go with you to pick up the sniper, then they'll accompany you to the shrine to pick up whatever you might need for the next few days." The door opens a moment later. "I'll see you this evening, Rei."
[17:28] <Rei-chan> "Have a good day, Father," Rei manages as she exits the vehicle and heads back into Mugen.
[17:29] <Halbarad> The two men from before fall into step behind you as you head back into the school.
[17:30] * Rei-chan leads the men back to the secure door they caught her at earlier. "Wait here and I'll be back in a moment with the sniper," she tells them.
[17:31] <Halbarad> Radio Guy shakes his head. "We've been instructed to take the sniper into custody ourselves, miss. We wouldn't want you to get hurt."
[17:34] * Rei-chan smirks, but decides to humour them. "Okay, then. I'll wait here as well." Leaning against the wall, she takes out her communicator and contacts Usagi. 'Usagi, answer your communicator - it's me. We need to get that sniper so my father's men can take him into custody.'
[17:35] <Halbarad> 'Right, give me a second.' After a brief pause - you can just picture Usagi fumbling through her purse for the rarely-used communicator - the blonde's face appears on the screen. "What's up, Rei?" she asks.
[17:36] <Halbarad> The two men give the credit card-sized device in your hand a pair of puzzled looks.
[17:37] <Rei-chan> "I need you to bring our friend from last night over to," Rei glances up at the secure door, "Door 12 on the first floor." 'I'll project myself up to knock him out again, then you teleport up and grab him. Just leave him on the other side of the door after that and I'll pick him up,' she outlines her plan.
[17:39] <Halbarad> 'Don't bother, I can handle him myself,' Usagi replies confidently. "Will do, I'll have him there in just a few minutes."
[17:39] <Rei-chan> 'Just make sure to knock him out without him seeing you!' Rei cautions.
[17:40] <Halbarad> 'Not a problem,' Usagi sends back. There's a brief pause, then the blonde sends back to Rei again. 'On the Moon now, this should only take a minute.'
[17:40] <Halbarad> Usagi is silent for a couple of minutes after that, the two agents giving you odd looks. "So where is the sniper?" Speedy Guy asks.
[17:41] * Rei-chan pockets her communicator. "He'll be right up," she responds, giving them a smile. 'You done yet, Usagi?'
[17:42] <Halbarad> There's no answer, save for a flash of light from underneath the door. Usagi responds back a moment later. 'He's all yours, Rei-chan.'
[17:43] <Rei-chan> 'Thanks, get out of sight before I open the door,' Rei responds, going to input her access code.
[17:43] <Halbarad> 'Already on my way back down to the office. Don't touch the ball unless you're ready for him to wake up,' Usagi cautions.
[17:44] <Rei-chan> 'Ball?' Rei asks, opening the door and hoping this isn't something overtly magical. She has no clue how much her father's subordinates know, and would certainly rather not give them anything herself.
[17:46] <Halbarad> The door opens to reveal the sniper, looking rather pale where he's slumped against the wall. In his hand is what looks to be a baseball, but your spiritual senses tell you that it's merely an illusion to cover up a sphere of energy in the man's palm.
[17:48] <Rei-chan> "You guys have handcuffs or anything?" Rei asks her companions. "No telling when he'll wake up." She doubts Kazuya and Jun would just leave the 'baseball' alone in his hand, after all.
[17:49] <Halbarad> Speedy shakes his head. "Not with us, but we can keep him restrained until the squad car arrives." He roughly hauls the sniper to his feet, pulling the man's arms behind him. The 'baseball' falls from the sniper's hand unheeded, rolling to a halt a few feet down the hallway. Radio merely shakes his head. "What the hell does he have a baseball for?"
[17:51] * Rei-chan blinks. 'I take it that ball is his energy and will only return to him when another person touches it?' she guesses. "Well, it keeps him from getting bored," she tells the man with a fake chuckle.
[17:52] <Halbarad> 'Yeah, I didn't know how obvious I should make it though since I know you've got your dad's men near you,' Usagi replies. 'Just squeeze it a little and it should return to him.'
[17:53] <Rei-chan> 'I'll do that once they've got him in the police car,' Rei says, very delicately picking the 'baseball' up.
[17:55] <Halbarad> It feels warm and tingly in your hand, although it's solid enough. Speedy hauls the unconscious sniper back through the secured door, Radio sticking next to you. "You need anything else while we're here?" he asks.
[17:56] <Rei-chan> "No," Rei shakes her head. "I take it we're going to the Shrine, now?"
[17:56] <Halbarad> Radio nods. "Once the squad car takes care of our friend back there, yes," he replies. "Shouldn't be more than a couple of minutes, they're on the way now."
[17:58] <Rei-chan> "Alright then," Rei nods agreeably, stepping back out into the open hallway and closing the secure door behind her. 'I'm going to the Shrine to pick up my stuff in a minute, Usagi. Then I'll be staying with my Father for the next few days until he deals with Kurosawa.'
[17:59] <Halbarad> 'All right,' Usagi sends back a bit sadly. 'Do you know if you'll be at school?'
[18:00] <Rei-chan> 'I don't know. Hold on, I'll ask,' Rei replies, getting Radio's attention. "Excuse me, but do you know if I'll be attending school as normal for the next few days?"
[18:01] <Halbarad> Radio shakes his head. "Not that I'm aware of. The last information I'd received was that the dietman's office was making arrangements to have your assignments collected for you."
[18:02] * Rei-chan nods. 'Looks like I'll be stuck at Father's place until this is resolved,' she sends to Usagi. 'I'll keep in touch, though.'
[18:03] <Halbarad> 'I understand. I'll miss you, Rei-chan,' Usagi sends back. Radio nods to you, waiting for you to start heading out of the school. "They're loading him into the squad car now," he says. "We're good to go."
[18:05] <Rei-chan> "Alright," Rei falls in step with Radio as they leave. 'It's only for a few days, and we might be able to work something out,' she reassures Usagi. 'In the meantime, keep your own head down. You really don't want Kurosawa to suspect you any more than he does.'
[18:06] <Halbarad> 'I will,' Usagi sends back. As you leave the school, you see Speedy manhandling the unconscious sniper into a police car, a uniformed officer standing just outside the driver's door as he watches the scene.
[18:08] * Rei-chan looks to see if the sniper has been properly restrained.
[18:08] <Halbarad> It's hard to see from here, but you think you can catch the glint of sunlight off a pair of handcuffs as the sniper is rudely shoved into the car.
[18:09] * Rei-chan nods, waiting until the car starts to drive off before giving the 'baseball' in her hand a light squeeze.
[18:11] <Halbarad> It flashes brightly then disappears, but you can't see if it woke the sniper up - Speedy slams the car door on him just as you do so, heading back towards you and Radio. "All right, that should take care of him."
[18:13] <Rei-chan> "Hope they lock him up for a long time," Rei says darkly.
[18:14] <Halbarad> The two stick close to you as you all begin the trip towards the Shrine through the morning streets of Juuban. "If what I'm hearing on the police bands is right, he's probably going to be deported," Radio replies. "Apparently they've been looking for this guy in the US as well."
[18:15] <Rei-chan> "Of course... a 'professional' assassin..." Rei snorts as she walks along with her two bodyguards, keeping a sharp lookout herself in case Kurosawa hired more than one person to end her life.
[18:17] <Halbarad> The trip goes uneventfully, although Rei earns a few curious stares from onlookers at her two bodyguards. Gramps is notably unhappy about the fact that Rei will be gone for a few days - less so that she's with her father - but he acquiesces quietly, agreeing that it will indeed be safer for his granddaughter there.
[18:19] <Halbarad> After packing a bag with a few days worth of clothes, Rei is escorted to her father's downtown penthouse by the two men in suits. On the way she manages to work out that Jun is the one with the radio, while Kazuya is the one who managed to catch her in the hallways. The three step off the elevator in Hino's high-rise apartment, where a butler greets you at the apartment door. Jun and Kazuya remain outside as you enter.
[18:19] <Rei-chan> "Hello," Rei greets the butler, looking around to take in the place her father lives.
[18:21] <Halbarad> The butler gives you a bow as you enter the very high-class apartment. The large expanse is immaculate, the furnishings tasteful if a bit on the spartan side. The only items of note in the room are a large and rather messy desk (the only cluttered area of the room) with a laptop sitting on it and a large, framed portrait over the fireplace - your parents together, both with happy smiles.
[18:22] * Rei-chan smiles at the portrait, remembering happier times. After a moment she shakes it off and turns to the butler, "Is there anything to eat? I missed breakfast this morning."
[18:24] <Halbarad> He nods. "I shall have lunch brought out to you shortly. I understand that one of Hino-san's aides will be arriving with your work shortly, although I'm afraid there probably isn't much for you to do until they arrive." He gives you a small smile at that.
[18:27] <Rei-chan> "That's alright, I'm sure I can handle a little boredome after last night," Rei says with a small smile as she looks out the windows of the apartment, looking for sniper vantage points and trying to figure out where in the apartment is safest.
[18:28] <Halbarad> A sniper would have a difficult time hitting you here, you note. While not the tallest building in Tokyo by any stretch, it's easily the tallest building in this ward, the street looking rather tiny some sixty stories below. The butler heads off to the kitchen, leaving you to your own devices for the moment.
[18:30] <Rei-chan> Content that she's safe enough against that particular form of attack, Rei goes to turn on the TV and watch the news, idly curious if the attempted assassination of an innocent miko and high profile politician's daughter warrants any media attention.
[18:32] <Halbarad> It's on an all-news station when you turn it on, you notice. The news seems to be fairly bland for today, it seems; a half an hour of watching reveals nothing more unusual than a rare early cool front headed for Tokyo in the next couple of days. The closest mention you see is a story about gunfire overheard in the Minatoku ward, but there's no followup to it.
[18:33] * Rei-chan shrugs, guessing that her father arranged a media blackout of the event. Turning off the television, she contents herself to wait for lunch and schoolwork.
[18:33] <Halbarad> Lunch and schoolwork arrive almost at the same time, a rather cute young lady in her 20's arriving with your school assignments for the next few days just as the butler exits the kitchen with a very nice lunch for you.
[18:34] * Rei-chan smiles at the lady. "Thank you. If you can just leave that there," she gestures at the coffee table, "I'll get to it after my lunch."
[18:36] <Halbarad> The woman gives you a nod. "All right. I'm Ritsuko, by the way - if you need anything else from outside, just give me a call at your father's office and I'll see to it."
[18:37] <Rei-chan> "Thanks, Ritsuko-san," Rei replies, going to get her lunch and then make a start on her schoolwork afterwards.
[18:39] <Halbarad> Lunch is quite good - your father has a good chef, at least. Once your meal has been polished off, it's on to schoolwork. Fortunately, your teachers are staying fairly light on the homework for now, aside from your history professor - who's assigned a five page paper due at the end of next week. Bastard.
[18:40] <Halbarad> Within about three hours most of the homework is done, leaving you cooling your heels once again - Usagi's popped into your head to say hello once or twice between classes, but she's in chorus at the moment and not really able to pay much attention to you.
[18:41] <Rei-chan> 'You'd think I'd like having time to do nothing at all,' the idle miko notes, wondering if she should call Ritsuko and ask her to get some manga.
[18:44] <Rei-chan> With nothing else to do, Rei gets down to something she hasn't done in a few months, getting a pen and sheet of paper and starting to work on a new song or two.
[18:46] <Halbarad> It's a bit rough without your keyboard here to try out the notes, but you begin to work on your latest aural masterpiece - or at least that's how you HOPE it will turn out. About an hour in, Usagi pops into your thoughts, and the two of you while away another hour and a half or so exchanging the day's latest gossip about school. Eventually, though, Usagi has to pay more attention to goings-on at her own home,
[18:47] <Halbarad> leaving you with a last 'love you' and a promise to contact you again in the morning. And she has excellent timing, it seems - just as she finishes speaking, your father enters the apartment, looking rather drained.
[18:48] <Rei-chan> "Welcome home, Father," Rei rises to greet him. "How was your day?"
[18:49] <Halbarad> "Long and not very satisfying," he replies shortly, heading into the kitchen and returning a few moments later with a glass of red wine. He takes a seat at his desk, running a hand through his hair. "Kurosawa says he had no idea of any attempts on your life, and for once I believe him."
[18:51] <Rei-chan> "Why do you believe him?" Rei asks, puzzled, "Do you think his secretary organised the attack herself?"
[18:52] <Halbarad> "That's what the evidence is pointing to right now," Hino says, taking a sip of his wine. "He left his office around six last night, and his secretary didn't arrange for the sniper until half past eight, from the timestamp on the tape. He had no idea any such thing was planned, and judging from how livid he was when he heard about it, I think he's telling the truth."
[18:54] <Rei-chan> "He could have given his secretary orders at any point in the day - and it's certainly understandable for him to be livid given that I'm still alive," Rei points out. "But supposing he is innocent, what's the story on the secretary?"
[18:55] <Halbarad> Hino frowns a bit. "Kurosawa may be a snake, but there are some lines you just don't cross in this game. Going after family is one of those," he replies shortly. "As far as the secretary goes, he said she showed up about three months ago, claiming to have information on the senshi, and promptly got herself hired. Apparently she was the one who told him about you."
[18:57] <Rei-chan> "Well, what details do we have on her, then? Kurosawa could have wanted me dead for his political reasons, but what does she stand to gain from it?" Rei asks, leaning forward intently.
[18:59] <Halbarad> "Not many," Hino says, leaning back in his chair from a frown. "She gave Kurosawa the identities of Sailors Mars and Moon," here he gives you a VERY pointed look, "and said that she'd help him get his hands on both of them and possibly the rest of the senshi as well."
[19:00] <Rei-chan> "What's her name and where does she live?" Rei asks simply, ignoring the pointed look.
[19:01] <Halbarad> No one's quite sure where she lives. Her only address on file is a post office box. Her name is Belinda - not sure on the last name, for some reason we're having a hard time tracking it down."
[19:04] <Rei-chan> "Well that's sure mysterious. I'd have expected government employees to be better documented," Rei sighs, leaning back again. "Belinda... doesn't sound familiar at all." 'Usagi?' she tries to get the blonde's attention.
[19:04] <Halbarad> 'What is it, Rei-chan - I'm right in the middle of dinner,' Usagi sends back distractedly.
[19:05] <Halbarad> Hino scowls a bit. "It looks like she knew her assassin failed - she cleared out of the office first thing this morning, according to Kurosawa, and most of the computer records regarding her are pretty badly corrupted."
[19:07] <Rei-chan> 'Kurosawa apparently didn't know about the hit - his secretary is running this herself, and she does know your identity for sure, and possibly the others. Name's Belinda, but I don't know more than that. Be very careful, okay?'
[19:07] <Rei-chan> "If it's a computer problem, one of the girls I know at Mugen might be able to help. Otherwise I suppose I could use the Sacred Flame to try and locate her - it'd help if I had something physical connected with her, though."
[19:09] <Halbarad> Hino doesn't seem too impressed, but he opens his briefcase. "I've got her badge, she left it lying on her desk when she took off this morning." Digging out the small plastic square, he tosses it over to Rei.
[19:10] * Rei-chan takes the badge and gives it a cursory look. "I imagine assassins aren't cheap - especially on a secretary's salary," she notes conversationally.
[19:11] <Halbarad> "Generally not," Hino agrees. "We're still trying to figure out where she got the money." As you look at the badge, you notice that the characters for her last name are blurred for some reason - odd, since the badge is encased in plastic. However, that only occupies your attention for the briefest of moments, once you catch a glimpse of the woman's picture.
[19:12] <Halbarad> Long, wavy red hair. Brown eyes with a slight yellowish cast. A sinister, thin-lipped smile - and two large, green earrings. The woman is the exact image of Queen Beryl, minus the fangs and the horns on her shoulders.
[19:13] * Rei-chan chokes slightly, "What the hell?!"
[19:13] <Halbarad> Hino looks over at you oddly. "What's the matter?"
[19:14] <Rei-chan> "This is Queen Beryl!" Rei holds the photo up for him to see, "The one behind all the monster attacks last year!"
[19:14] <Halbarad> Your father is rather taken aback at that. "What? A secretary was behind monster attacks?" For the first time in your life that you can recall, your father looks rather confused.
[19:15] <Rei-chan> "She wasn't a secretary then!" Rei protests, "She was ruler of the Dark Kingdom!"
[19:16] <Halbarad> "But if that's the case, how did she end up working for Kurosawa?" Hino says, coming over to take a closer look at the picture himself. "I thought you told me those particular attacks were over?"
[19:16] <Rei-chan> "They were!" Rei nods fervently, "I killed her myself!"
[19:17] <Halbarad> That pulls the dietman up short. "You killed her?" he says, a slight tremor in his voice.
[19:22] * Rei-chan blinks and calms down, realising she's never outright told her father of the more... unpleasant, aspect of being a Sailor Senshi. "It was at the final battle of the Dark Kingdom, right as Metallia was being summoned," she explains. "After Sailor Moon overwhelmed Beryl's defences I finished her off."
[19:22] <Rei-chan> "Then Metallia arrived and used the corpse as a vessel... but we utterly annihilated it..." Rei trails off with a frown. The Silver Crystal brought back everyone that died that day... could Beryl have been included?
[19:25] <Halbarad> Hino takes that in in stunned silence, recomposing himself slowly a moment later. "When did all this happen?" he asks slowly - it's fairly clear that you've given him a heck of a lot more information than he ever expected.
[19:26] <Rei-chan> "At the end of November last year," Rei answers. 'Usagi! Big trouble!'
[19:27] <Halbarad> He frowns at that. "The time slip?" he asks. Usagi responds fairly quickly this time. 'Just finished dinner, what's going on?' she sends back.
[19:28] <Rei-chan> "Time slip? You mean people actually noticed?" Rei blinks at him. 'Turns out 'Belinda' is - you won't believe this - Beryl! Just saw a photograph and she's a dead ringer.'
[19:30] <Halbarad> Hino nods at that. "Most people wrote it off as just a blip in their memories, but there have been theories floating around of some sort of time distortion at that point in time. Don't ask me about the physics behind it, but apparently there are enough people out there that are unsure of what happened for a few days last November that it's being investigated."
[19:30] <Halbarad> Usagi is completely silent for a moment, then you get a 'WHAT?! You've GOT to be kidding me, right?'
[19:33] <Rei-chan> "Well it's true," Rei nods. "Two days never happened. And believe me when I tell you you should be glad of it." She shudders slightly at the memory. 'No joke. I'm not sure how it's possible. Unless the Crystal brought back everyone who died those two days without consideration of whether they were evil or not. Which makes sense in a way...'
[19:34] <Halbarad> 'I can't imagine it would bring BERYL back though,' Usagi sends back heatedly. 'This has to be some kind of bad joke, right? Someone's just dressing up like Beryl or something.'
[19:34] <Halbarad> Rei's father cocks an eyebrow at that. "What exactly happened in those two days that was so terrible?"
[19:36] <Rei-chan> 'I swear it's her, Usagi. And it fits - why else would she know who we are? Why else would she want us dead?' Rei takes a moment to compose herself before answering her father. "The final battle of the Dark Kingdom took place right here in Tokyo. It... wasn't gentle to the city." She hopes he'll be satisfied with that.
[19:37] <Halbarad> The dietman looks rather grave at that. "How bad was it?" he asks simply, his face carefully blank. 'Great, so we have to deal with her AGAIN,' Usagi moans. 'Be right back, my parents are looking at me like I've gone crazy - I'm going to have to explain this to them.'
[19:39] <Rei-chan> 'At least she doesn't have Metallia and an army of youma this time. Just whatever assassins she can hire...' Rei sighs. "Father, you remember not long after the Sailor Senshi first showed up, and that blond-haired man challenged us to a fight at the airport by creating a big illusion of the city in flames?"
[19:40] <Halbarad> Hino nods quickly. "Of course, that incident was what first instigated the creation of the senshi committee in the Diet."
[19:42] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, well it was kind of like that. But real. And ten times worse," Rei answers shortly. "Much of the city was in flames, and hundreds of those monsters were rampaging throughout. And they weren't just draining energy."
[19:43] <Halbarad> He digests that little tidbit slowly. "And no one has any memory of this at all?" he asks after a few moments. "I know I'd certainly remember if Tokyo was in flames the way you describe it."
[19:45] <Rei-chan> "The only ones who remember what really happened are the senshi," Rei nods slowly. "And presumably Beryl if that really is her. Everything went back to normal after Metallia was destroyed, and then we went home to discover we'd apparently been missing for two days."
[19:47] <Halbarad> The dietman rubs his chin thoughtfully, taking another sip of his wine. After a couple of minutes of thoughful silence, he speaks again. "I want to know more of what happened - but later. It's more important that Beryl is dealt with, especially if she's still a danger."
[19:50] <Rei-chan> "She was a fairly powerful mage, but most of her power came from Metallia. I'd think any one of us senshi could take her now. Only thing is finding her first... I'm not sure how good she is at screening herself from detection, although I'm surprised I haven't sensed anything before now. I guess she's keeping a low profile though, considering her method of attack."
[19:52] <Halbarad> The older man nods at that. "Evidently good enough. I've asked Ritsuko to call me with any more information they dig up from her files, but I'm told it will be a fairly slow process." He considers again for a few moments. "Is the Tsukino girl in any danger? Should she be warned?"
[19:55] <Rei-chan> "She already knows to be careful after I was attacked last night. I'll have to talk to her and the other girls to let them know Beryl's back, though," Rei responds in a slightly distracted tone as she stretches out her mystical senses, attuning them to sense Beryl's hateful aura.
[19:55] <Halbarad> OOC: Soul check, +3.
[19:55] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+3 burning 10 EP
[19:55] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+3 burning 10 EP and gets 12."
[19:56] <Halbarad> You can sense... it's the barest flicker, but it's out there somewhere. Near Juuban, from the slight twinge you got - but how near or far from here, or where exactly, you couldn't say.
[19:57] * Rei-chan frowns. "I can sense her. But not enough to get a decent location," she sighs. "I think consulting the Sacred Flame would be a good idea."
[19:58] <Halbarad> Hino doesn't exactly seem pleased with that, but he sets down his wineglass and stands. "I take it you need to go to Hikawa for this?" he says with a faint edge of distaste in his voice.
[19:59] <Rei-chan> "It would help. Is there a problem with that?"
[20:00] <Halbarad> "I'll take you," he replies, not really answering your question. "If you're ready, let's get going. I want this dealt with," he says levelly.
[20:00] <Rei-chan> "So do I," Rei agrees, standing.
[20:00] <Halbarad> -----
[20:02] <Halbarad> In what must be a rather bizarre twist of events, your father drives you to the Hikawa Shrine himself, in a rather smaller car than the limousine you've seen him in.  He pulls the car up outside the Shrine, getting out as you do. "Lead the way," he says in a clipped tone, his face grim.
[20:03] * Rei-chan hurries up the steps to the Shrine, still keeping a paranoid lookout for assassins.
[20:04] <Halbarad> The early twilight is quiet for now, your senses not betraying anything at the moment. The dietman follows Rei up the stairs at a jog, although he's rather quickly winded by the ascent. As the two enter the temple, Gramps waves to his granddaughter, then stops cold as he catches sight of the politician. "Kentaro..." he says with a scowl. "What are you doing here?"
[20:05] <Halbarad> "Helping my daughter," he says back snappishly, not pausing to give the old priest a spare moment as he follows Rei into the temple.
[20:05] * Rei-chan doesn't have time to deal with the squabbling adults as she bows to the Sacred Flame, promptly kneeling down and shutting out the outside world as she commences her meditations.
[20:06] <Halbarad> Rei's father stands at the doorway of the meditation room, an odd expression on his face as he watches Rei go through the rituals.
[20:07] <Rei-chan> Focusing on locating the former servant of Metallia and discerning her plans, Rei entrusts her spirit to the guidance of the Kami.
[20:08] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+2
[20:08] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 6."
[20:10] <Halbarad> The flames leap up, casting flickering shadows around the room.... in the dancing light, you see an image of the former Queen of the Dark Kingdom, standing aboard a train. The scowl on her face is easily recognizable; as the train pulls up to a stop, you can see her step out into the familiar surroundings of the Juuban terminal. As she does so, the vision fades quickly, the flames dying down once again.
[20:11] <Rei-chan> "She's just getting out at the Juuban train terminal!" Rei says as she gets up in a rush. 'Usagi! Beryl's at the Juuban train terminal. Meet me there!'
[20:12] <Halbarad> The dietman nods, following his daughter out of the building as quickly as his somewhat out-of-shape form will allow. "Get in the car, I'll drive us," he says, puffing a bit. Usagi replies a moment later. 'Got it, I'm on my way now.'
[20:13] * Rei-chan gets in the car and buckles her seatbelt, nervous energy coursing through her.
[20:14] <Halbarad> The dietman climbs in across from Rei, not even bothering with his seatbelt as he does a passable imitation of one of Eudial's takeoffs, whipping the car around without regard for the rest of the traffic on the road. He keeps a grim expression on his face as the car speeds through the darkening streets of Juuban, concentrating on his driving.
[20:15] * Rei-chan does her best not to distract her father, hoping they don't crash before she can even get to Beryl.
[20:16] <Halbarad> He drives admirably well, although as he makes the last turn towards the station it's obvious that he doesn't see the tall, red-haired figure heading away from the site at a rapid clip, just disappearing into an alley as you spot her.
[20:17] <Rei-chan> "Stop the car, I just saw her!" Rei says urgently, trying to keep a spiritual trace on Beryl as she goes out of sight.
[20:18] <Halbarad> It's easy enough to do with as close as you are - she doesn't even seem to be trying to hide other than sticking to the alleys. You do note that her energy signature seems incredibly weak, no stronger than an average Mugen student's at best.
[20:19] <Halbarad> Hino stomps on the brakes, the tires squealing as the car quickly comes to a halt. He climbs out of the car as it stops, looking around quickly. "Where is she?" he says rather harshly.
[20:19] <Rei-chan> While it's possible that she's hiding her true power, this feeling coupled with Beryl's method of attack does plant a suspicion in Rei's mind as she gets out of the car. "She went down that alley," she points. "You'd better keep back, Father. This could be dangerous." 'Usagi, are you nearby?'
[20:20] <Halbarad> Usagi springs down lightly from a nearby rooftop just as Rei gets out of the car, already in senshi form. "Just got here," she replies verbally, sparing the dietman a brief glance. "Any idea where Beryl is?"
[20:21] <Rei-chan> "This way," Rei gestures, dashing into the alleyway and after the former Queen of the Dark Kingdom.
[20:22] <Halbarad> Usagi follows at a rapid clip, Dietman Hino remaining next to the car with his hands clenched. The alley is like most you'd expect to find - fairly dark and deserted. You can just sense Beryl up ahead, beyond a small intersection with another alley.
[20:23] <Rei-chan> Once out of sight of prying eyes within the alley, Rei transforms before continuing towards Beryl at a run.
[20:23] * Rei-chan is now known as Sailor_Mars
[20:24] <Halbarad> As the two senshi round the corner, they both spot Beryl a few yards ahead, apparently unaware of their approach.
[20:25] <Sailor_Mars> "Stop!" Rei calls, posing, "Pretty girls should be able to sleep without bullets flying into their pillows! I don't know how you're still alive, but in the name of Mars I'll chastise you!"
[20:27] <Halbarad> "I won't stand by while my friends have to be afraid to sleep! Only a coward would attack someone while they're asleep. I'm Sailor Moon, and in the name of the Moon I'll punish you!" Usagi matches Rei's pose, while Beryl simply turns slowly to regard the both of you.
[20:27] <Halbarad> "The moon brat and the miko," she spits, her eyes narrowed with hate. "I suppose it was only a matter of time after that fool failed to dispose of you."
[20:28] <Sailor_Mars> "I don't know how you're still alive, Beryl, but you're an idiot to try and take revenge when you could have led a peaceful life without us ever meeting you again," Rei chastises her.
[20:30] <Halbarad> "Peaceful life? In this pathetic excuse for a body?" she snarls. "It's thanks to you and the rest of those sailor brats that I'm stuck like this."
[20:30] <Sailor_Mars> "Considering your head was split wide open and charred beyond recognition last I saw, you really shouldn't complain," Rei observes.
[20:31] <Halbarad> The former sorceress snorts. "That body was destroyed with Metallia... I was lucky enough that her hold on me loosened enough as the crystal overwhelmed her that I was able to slip away into the nearest body still capable of maintaining life."
[20:32] <Sailor_Mars> "You're possessing someone?" Rei arches an eyebrow.
[20:33] <Halbarad> "In a manner of speaking," the redhead replies. "This body's former owner was in no condition to keep me from taking their body, and no one was more surprised than I when the crystal ended up restoring it to its full vigor."
[20:35] <Sailor_Mars> "How come that body looks like your old one then? Pretty much, I mean - aside from those horns you had on your shoulders."
[20:36] <Halbarad> "The little magic I was able to scrape together was enough to change its shape, but little more than that," she replies, her arms crossed as she regards both senshi with contempt.
[20:37] <Sailor_Mars> "Okay," Rei shrugs. 'Usagi, want to try a Moon Healing Escalation on her? I think this is basically working the same way as when a youma possessed someone.'
[20:39] <Halbarad> The blonde nods. 'Worth a shot, I guess.' She draws out the Lunar Staff from subspace, circling her body. "Moon Healing...." At that the former dark queen laughs. "You are so eager to kill me, then?"
[20:39] <Halbarad> Usagi scowls. "I'm going to get rid of you, at least."
[20:39] <Sailor_Mars> "I think the original owner of that body deserves it more than you," Rei nods.
[20:40] <Halbarad> Beryl laughs at that. "Feel free to try, moon brat. The original owner of this body has long since left this plane - removing me will do you no good at all."
[20:42] * Sailor_Mars shrugs. 'Up to you, I guess, Usagi,' she says while trying to sense if what Beryl says is true and no trace of the original spirit remains.
[20:43] <Halbarad> 'She's right, I think,' Usagi sends back with a sigh. 'I'm not sure what the possessed youma looked like, but there's no sign of anything but her there now.' Rei's own senses confirm this - the only soul resident in the body is Beryl's, although it's clearly foreign to the body.
[20:44] <Halbarad> Beryl spreads her arms wide. "Will you kill me in cold blood, Sailor Moon?" she says with a smirk.
[20:44] <Sailor_Mars> 'Well, killing her like this does feel wrong - she really can't fight back. I guess we should take her prisoner, then. Can't have her running around here hiring assassins and whatnot.'
[20:45] <Halbarad> Usagi frowns. 'Will it be worth the trouble though? I mean, we're going to have to watch her every minute - who KNOWS what she'll get up to if we don't.' Beryl folds her arms and smirks. "I thought not."
[20:47] <Sailor_Mars> 'We can keep her locked up in the Palace dungeons - she doesn't have the magical power to do much. Although I bet she has the knowledge, still.' "You're right, Beryl. We don't kill in cold blood. Most of our enemies fight to the death or redeem themselves, though. I guess you're our first prisoner."
[20:48] <Halbarad> 'I guess so,' Usagi thinks back unhappily. Beryl scowls at that. "A prisoner? And just where do you intend to keep me? In your home?" she asks, pointing at Rei. "Or in yours?" She grins at Usagi, her eyes narrowing. "Perhaps I could share a room with that little brat you seem to care for so much."
[20:49] <Halbarad> Usagi's jaw clenches at that, her knuckles whitening around the Lunar Staff.
[20:

[Halbarad]

[20:55] <Halbarad> As you turn it in your hands, you catch a glimpse of what looks like Beryl's face, frozen in an expression of horror in one of the facets of the stone. "I guess so," Usagi replies, shaking her head. "I'm not even sure how though - I remember practicing some with some of the parts of that spell, but I have no idea how I just put it all together."
[20:56] * Sailor_Mars grimaces at Beryl's expression. "I think you've put her in one of those Crystal Prisons," she says unhappily.
[20:57] <Halbarad> Usagi winces. "Is that what that is?" She comes over to look at the stone, giving it a critical look herself. "It's... I don't think she's dead," she says after considering the gem for a moment. "I just wish I knew what I DID."
[20:59] <Sailor_Mars> "If she's left in here forever she might as well be dead. And if she gets out then she'll just be exactly the same way she was two minutes ago. This... isn't how I envisaged solving this problem, Usagi."
[21:00] <Halbarad> The blonde sighs. "I just.... I couldn't stand the thought of her just sitting around in the palace, but I didn't want to kill her either. What she said about Chibi Usa really made me mad - I don't ever want her to have to deal with someone like Beryl."
[21:02] * Sailor_Mars shakes her head. "Like or not, just sticking someone in a crystal and forgetting about them is no way to run a criminal justice system. At best it's no different than a death sentence, at worst we're just creating problems for the future like when all those criminals got loose last year."
[21:03] <Halbarad> Usagi nods unhappily. "I won't do it again, but I'm not sure what I can do about Beryl for now. I guess just keep the stone somewhere we can watch it in case she ever does manage to break her way out of it - I have no idea how I'd get her out now."
[21:05] * Sailor_Mars frowns, again eyeing the crystal. "We'll figure out some way, I'm sure of it. Until then I guess that's all we can do."
[21:06] <Halbarad> Sailor Moon nods, letting Rei hang on to the large gemstone for now. "Was that your father I saw you with?" Usagi says with a slight note of disbelief in her voice.
[21:07] <Sailor_Mars> "Yeah, he drove me here," Rei nods, detransforming and pocketing the gemstone - something tells her putting it in a subspace pocket is a bad idea.
[21:07] * Sailor_Mars is now known as Rei-chan
[21:08] <Halbarad> "I saw," Usagi says, still sounding a bit stunned. "I've only ever seen Eudial drive like that - well, he wasn't going as fast as she was, but still. What got into him?"
[21:09] <Rei-chan> "I think he was just as eager as me to see this mess resolved," Rei says, starting back towards the car. "Dunno what I'm going to tell him, now... I don't think he'd take well to seeing a person in a crystal."
[21:10] <Halbarad> Usagi nods glumly. "Guess I've got another project to work on now," she says with a shake of her head. "You need me for anything else?"
[21:11] <Rei-chan> "I think we're done here," Rei smiles and leans over to give Usagi a kiss on the cheek. "I'll see you in school tomorrow, okay?"
[21:12] <Halbarad> Usagi smiles, returning the kiss. "All right. Love you, Rei-chan." With that final word, the blonde springs away up to the rooftops, quickly making her way back towards her own home.
[21:13] * Rei-chan heads back to rejoin her father, deciding after telling him about a time slip he probably can handle hearing of Beryl's state.
[21:15] <Halbarad> The dietman is at the mouth of the alley as you exit, a relieved look crossing his features as he sees you return unharmed. He quickly masks it with his usual stonelike expression, however. "Has the matter been settled?" he asks gruffly.
[21:15] * Rei-chan smiles. "Not in the way I expected, but Beryl won't be bothering anyone for a while, now."
[21:16] <Halbarad> He seems satisfied with that. "As long as she's no longer an issue." He waits for Rei to exit the alleyway, escorting her back towards the car.
[07:48] * Rei-chan gets in the car and sighs. "Well, I sure hope that's the last I have to worry about assassins coming after me."
[07:50] <Halbarad> "I'd think so," Hino replies as he starts up the car. "You'll probably have to stay on your toes for a bit - the committee's got a fairly close eye on you at the moment with all this going on - but I think the matter is closed for now." He drives back towards his apartment in relative silence, a scowl on his face.
[07:51] <Rei-chan> "I'll try to avoid drawing attention to myself," Rei smiles, although it slips slightly as she puts a hand in her pocket and fingers the cool gemstone. 'What a mess...'
[07:53] <Halbarad> As the two of you arrive back at the apartment building, Kazuya and Jun are waiting for you in the parking garage. The dietman gives the pair a nod, and they too seem to relax visibly. The four of you take the express elevator back up to the penthouse, the two suited men waiting outside as you enter the apartment with your father.
[07:54] <Halbarad> Hino drops into his desk chair heavily once inside the apartment, not even giving the butler a second look as he sweeps into the room.
[07:55] <Rei-chan> "So, what's for dinner?" Rei asks once they're inside.
[07:58] <Halbarad> Hino shakes his head. "Whatever you want, just ask Gunpei," he says absently, motioning towards the butler. It's fairly clear he's got something bothering him, although it's difficult to say what or why.
[08:00] * Rei-chan stares at her father for a moment, wishing she knew him well enough to identify the cause of his concern without asking. But... "What's wrong, Father? We've taken care of everything, haven't we?"
[08:01] <Halbarad> "Nothing you need to worry about, Rei," he says tightly. "Gunpei, would you take Rei to go get some dinner? I have some business to take care of." At that the butler nods, bowing to Rei. "If you'd follow me, miss?"
[08:02] <Rei-chan> "If you're sure," Rei says, somewhat dubiously. Nonetheless, she goes to follow the butler as told.
[08:03] <Halbarad> The butler leads you into a dining room that doesn't look like it gets much use. "Is there anything in particular you'd like for dinner, Miss Rei?"
[08:04] * Rei-chan considers for a moment. It's unlikely, but... "Do you have any fugu?" she asks hopefully.
[08:07] <Halbarad> Gunpei is a bit taken aback by the request, but he nods after a moment. "I don't believe we have any here at the moment, but if you are willing to wait I can have some sent up shortly."
[08:07] <Rei-chan> "If it's too much trouble then don't bother," Rei shakes her head, "I'm sure anything you make is fine."
[08:09] <Halbarad> The old butler smiles. "It's no trouble at all, Miss Rei. If you would just wait here for a while..." With that he slips off into the kitchen.
[08:09] * Rei-chan waits patiently, still wondering what has her Father so upset, but not expecting to find out anytime soon.
[08:10] <Halbarad> Things are quiet for perhaps fifteen minutes before he returns, bearing a tray with the delicacy arranged artfully on top. "Your fugu, Miss Rei," he says with a smile, setting it down in front of the miko.
[08:12] <Rei-chan> "Thanks so much!" Rei gives him a bright smile. "I love this stuff, but hardly ever get to eat it," she adds, picking up a small bite with her chopsticks and popping it into her mouth.
[08:12] <Halbarad> As you start in on your meal, with the butler waiting nearby for any other requests, you can hear your father's raised voice from the living room. "...don't CARE what kind of problems it's going to cause! I'm not asking you, I'm telling you!"
[08:13] * Rei-chan blinks, before straining her ears to pick up the conversation without making it apparent that she's eavesdropping.
[08:15] <Halbarad> It's hard to hear from here, but you can pick up a few fragments. "...ten years. He can deal with it," comes through a moment later, then "I don't want to hear any buts. Just get it done, all right?" At that you hear a sharp clack - sounds like your father just slammed a phone back into its cradle.
[08:17] <Rei-chan> Finishing her meal, Rei excuses herself from the dining room and goes back to rejoin her father. "Father, is everything all right?" she asks with some concern, "I heard you yelling."
[08:19] <Halbarad> The dietman is facing his desk, so you can't see his expression - although his ears are red, probably from the fact that he WAS just shouting. He pauses for a few moments, then speaks. "You can stay the night here, and I'll have Jun and Kazuya take you home tomorrow," he says. You can tell from his voice that he's upset, but that he's trying to get himself back under control.
[08:20] <Rei-chan> "What's wrong?" Rei asks, approaching him.
[08:22] <Halbarad> He doesn't turn around as you approach, but you can see that his hands are clenched on top of his desk. After about a minute, he finally speaks. "I know more about the senshi than any other man in Japan, except probably Souichi Tomoe," he says, with a slight twist of distaste at the Professor's name. "And from what I've seen and heard tonight, I don't have a goddamn clue about what they actually do - what my daughter actually does."
[08:24] <Halbarad> He finally swivels to face you - you don't think you can ever remember seeing your father's control so loose, except possibly at your mother's funeral. "I want that corrected. I want you...." he halts, then goes back and starts over. "Would you tell me more about what it is you, do, Rei?" he asks quietly. "I've cancelled all my appointments for tomorrow, so if you agree we'll have plenty of time to talk."
[08:27] * Rei-chan blinks. "I..." she falters a moment, genuinely caught off guard. "You really want to know?" she asks in an odd tone. "As my father, not as the man heading the government committee on the senshi?"
[08:28] <Halbarad> He holds up his hand. "As your father. You have my word that none of this will ever reach the committee, at least not from my lips." He puts on a strange smile at that. "I already know too much, any more and they'd probably start wondering how I knew as much as I did."
[08:31] * Rei-chan nods, a soft smile making its presence felt on her lips. "We have a lot to discuss, then..."
[08:32] <Halbarad> -----

[Ebiris]

The Bizarro World omake, which Makoto nominated as her favourite overall, here for your reading pleasure.

[23:01] <Usagi-chan> -----
[23:05] <Ebiris> An ordinary day for Usagi, perhaps. Picking Chibi Usa up and walking her home after school, things go by mostly without note... until, not far from Mugen, you spot a very familiar effeminate man, with long blonde hair. He's looking about furtively, obviously uncomfortable in the trenchcoat he wears under the Summer sun. Even his grey dress pants look familiar from what you can see...
[23:06] * Usagi-chan frowns a bit, trying to place the man in her memory - he looks like someone she's seen before, but... it's hard to tell under that trenchcoat.
[23:08] <Ebiris> Turning around slightly, you are able to see his bishonen (damn near bishojou) profile, and recognise him quite easily as none other than Zoisite. He hasn't spotted you, yet, and lifts up some thing in his hand to examine, although you can't quite make out what.
[23:09] * Usagi-chan 's eyes widen in surprise as she recognizes the former general of the Dark Kingdom. 'Wasn't he dead?' she thinks, studying his aura intently to see if he's still EVIL.
[23:10] <Ebiris> OOC: soul check
[23:10] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[23:10] * Usagi-chan sets mode: +v Hatbot
[23:10] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[23:10] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[23:12] <Ebiris> A pity you developed aura sight only after meeting Zoisite, since you can't really compare with what the Dark General's aura was like back then. From what you can see, his aura is fairly similar to Jadeite's from back in December, although nowhere near as dark. It kind of reminds you of Rei's a bit, too. Definitely fiery, although not quite as intense by any means.
[23:13] * Usagi-chan decides to keep it low key for now - he's not OBVIOUSLY tainted, at least. Keeping things nonchalant, she heads over towards the trenchcoated general, trying to get a better look at what he's doing.
[23:16] <Ebiris> He's frowning (very prettily, you note) at a quartz-like crystal in his gloved hand. There's a soft light in the centre of it that you can notice as you draw nearer. Chibi Usa tugs at your skirt, "Mommy, why's that man wearing a coat in Summer?" she asks loud enough to hear, causing Zoisite to flush and look in your direction. He then pales considerably.
[23:17] <Usagi-chan> "I don't know, Chibi Usa," Usagi says, frowning a bit at Zoisite. "I would like to find out what he's doing here though," she says, loud enough for the former general to hear her. Her tone is firm, but not openly aggressive.
[23:19] <Ebiris> "Serenity!" Zoisite gapes, openly fearful as he backs away a few steps before finding some courage. Firming his stance a little, he stands against you - you can feel magic starting to gather at his command.
[23:20] * Usagi-chan holds up her hand. "I'm not going to hurt you if you don't attack me, Zoisite," Usagi says calmly, keeping Chibi Usa close to her in case she has to move quickly.
[23:21] <Ebiris> "Then what do you have planned?" he asks, sweating now - and probably not from the heat.
[23:22] <Usagi-chan> "I don't have anything planned - I just want to know why you're here - and not dead, I was almost sure you were." Usagi sighs a bit.
[23:23] <Ebiris> He pales even more, taking a half-step back. "Y-you killed me?!" His eyes dart around furtively, like a cornered animal seeking an escape.
[23:25] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "*I* didn't kill you, but the last time I saw you you disappeared and the next thing I heard was that you were dead," Usagi replies. Shaking her head, she gives the general a sympathetic look - it's obvious he's scared half out of his mind. "Look, do you want to go inside and sit down where we can talk? It's hot out here."
[23:28] <Ebiris> "Sit down... and talk?" he repeats incredulously. "A guardian of Earth and the Queen of the Moon Kingdom?" He looks you over more appraisingly, as if considering something. "Or are you?" he murmurs, half to himself, "Are things that different, here?"
[23:28] <Usagi-chan> "Yes, to both - but it's obvious you aren't THAT eager to do anything to me or you'd have tried it by now," she says, shaking her head. "Something's weird here, and I'd like to figure out what it is."
[23:30] <Ebiris> "I'd have tried if I thought I could survive two seconds after the attempt," he replies, bitterness creeping into his tone. "But then, you'd have no reason to hesitate... are Earth and the Moon not at war in this dimension?" he asks, sounding faintly disbelieving of the possibility.
[23:32] * Usagi-chan frowns. "Not at all - the Moon is abandoned for the most part right now." She sighs, starting over towards Mugen. "Come on, let's go get this sorted out someplace more private - if you're that worried about ME, I promise I'm not going to hurt you as long as you don't try anything with me, fair enough?"
[23:34] <Ebiris> "I... if I wind up regreting this I probably won't live long, anyway," Zoisite concedes, relaxing his guard. "Lead on, your Majesty," he says, lacing the title with bitter sarcasm.
[23:36] * Usagi-chan simply rolls her eyes - it's clear something's really off with Zoisite, but there'll be time enough to sort it out in a few minutes. Leading the way into Mugen, she heads into one of the empty classrooms - with classes out for the day, she basically has her pick, really. She takes a seat at one of the students' desks, waiting for Zoisite to join her.
[23:39] <Ebiris> Zoisite sits on a desk in the row in front of you, not really paying attention to Chibi Usa, who remains by your side, keeping quiet as the adults talk above her level. "So... you are Serenity, but more different than the one I know than I ever would have dreamed possible," he notes thoughtfully, seemingly surprised that you haven't blasted him to bits already.
[23:40] <Usagi-chan> "And you haven't done the same to me either," Usagi says wryly. "The Zoisite I knew would have stabbed me in the back the minute I saw him - so it's obvious something's really screwy here. First off, what year is it for you?"
[23:40] <Usagi-chan> haven't done anything*
[23:41] <Ebiris> "2004 by the modern calendar," Zoisite answers right off the bat. "I can actually explain the... 'screwiness'," he smirks, seemingly amused by your use of the word. "I'm not from this dimension. I only arrived here a few hours ago, actually."
[23:42] <Usagi-chan> "I heard you mention it earlier," Usagi says wryly. "I just wasn't sure whether you were from before the fall of the Silver Millenium or not - when you said the Earth was at war with the Moon, that was my first thought. So what exactly are you DOING here?"
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[23:47] <Ebiris> His expression turns grim at that. "Earth - my home, is at war with the Moon Kingdom, yes. The war began in ancient times, long forgotten by most, but we weren't able to defeat the Moon Kingdom, only seal it away for a time. Myself, and several others, volunteered to be placed in magical stasis so that we could protect Earth when the seal waned. We were awoken last year."
[23:47] <Ebiris> He sighs, brushing a hand through his luxurious hair, "Since then we've been fighting against Serenity and her soldiers to protect the peace, and winning. Barely. But recently, they've been gaining new strength from some other source - a source we discovered was coming from this dimension." He gives you a penetrating look at that.
[23:48] * Working-Plush has quit IRC (Connection reset by peer)
[23:48] * Usagi-chan blinks in surprise. "From here? I don't know anything about that...." Her voice trails off as she considers the tale Zoisite just told. "Wait... is Metallia involved in this somehow?" she asks tiredly.
[23:49] <Ebiris> "Metallia?" he blinks, "I'm sorry, that name isn't familiar to me."
[23:50] <Usagi-chan> "Sorry, it's just that you basically described what happened in THIS world, only in reverse. Here, the Earth attacked the Moon with the help of an evil being named Metallia, and managed to destroy the entire Moon Kingdom in the process. My soldiers and I were sent to be reincarnated in the future to fight her Dark Kingdom when it revived - which we did, and won." Usagi rubs her temples.
[23:52] <Ebiris> "You and your soldiers never died in my world. Despite our best efforts," Zoisite replies, still bitter. "This world is far more different than I could have imagined..." He shakes his head, before producing a clear crystal, now glowing fairly intensely, "Regardless, this building is almost certainly the source of that strange energy Serenity has been drawing on herself, recently."
[23:53] * Usagi-chan frowns slightly. "I saw you looking at that earlier - what is it?"
[23:54] <Ebiris> "A simple location device," he shrugs, "It's attuned to the new energy that's been arriving in recent weeks."
[23:55] <Usagi-chan> "So what's the story behind this war, then? How did it start?" Usagi asks, wanting to know a bit more of the story before she decides to offer her assistance.
[23:58] <Ebiris> "Truthfully?" he shrugs again, "I couldn't even tell you. The war started generations even before I was born - the Moon and Earth being at odds was practically a way of life back then. But in all the time the Moon has been sealed, Earth is no longer ready to resist Serenity. Aside from those who remained in stasis, we've only found a few who can stand against them."
Session Time: Sat May 08 00:00:00 2004
[00:00] <Usagi-chan> "And I - well, my counterpart, I guess - has just been letting this go on without looking for any sort of peace treaty?" Usagi asks incredulously. "Things really MUST be different in your world, then. I hate fighting."
[00:01] <Ebiris> He actually laughs at that. "The only peace Serenity will accept is when everyone is under her heel. I don't know if she enjoys fighting, but she certainly wants victory for herself."
[00:02] * Usagi-chan runs a hand over her face. "Geez... I'm not even sure what to tell you." She shakes her head. "Can that crystal of yours tell you where this power source is?"
[00:04] <Ebiris> "Like I said - it's in this building. The crystal can't give me an exact reading, but it is attuned to that particular energy - the more it senses, the brighter it gets." The crystal in his gloved hand is indeed very bright right now.
[00:05] * Usagi-chan sighs. "You're sitting next to the two strongest power sources in this world, as far as I know. Check out both me and Chibi Usa first." She gestures to Chibi Usa to stand up.
[00:07] <Ebiris> "The crystal only glows near that particular energy," he shrugs, not sure what you want from him, "It can't point to specific other energy sources, no matter how powerful they might be." He does eye Chibi Usa a bit suspiciously at that.
[00:07] <Usagi-chan> "Then check it to see if it reacts any more when it gets closer to Chibi Usa or me," Usagi says with a frown.
[00:09] <Ebiris> He's only about three feet away from you right now. Frowning though, he does indeed stand up and hold the crystal closer to each of you. You're not sure, but you think it does get a smidge brighter. Hard to tell, though. "It's not an exact measuring device," Zoisite says, irritated.
[00:10] <Usagi-chan> "Chibi Usa, would you go out and stand in the hallway for a minute? I'll come get you in just a second," Usagi says to her daughter with a smile.
[00:11] <Ebiris> "Okay, Mommy," Chibi Usa nods and skips off to do just that. Zoisite arches an eyebrow at the 'Mommy' but holds his tongue.
[00:12] * Usagi-chan notes the raised eyebrow. "Long story, don't ask," is Usagi's only reply. She keeps an eye on the crystal in Zoisite's hand, waiting to see if it dims at all.
[00:12] <Ebiris> "You really are different from the Serenity I know," is Zoisite's only reply. The crystal remains exactly the same as far as you can tell.
[00:14] * Usagi-chan sighs at the lack of change in the crystal. "Nothing... she might have to be further away, but it's just too hard to tell." She gets up from her seat, heading out into the hallway to retrieve Chibi Usa again. "Thanks, Chibi Usa-chan," she says, giving the girl a smile as the two reenter the room.
[00:16] <Ebiris> Chibi Usa nods, happy to be of any help, while Zoisite pockets his crystal. "It's definitely in this building, but I think the crystal was made to be too sensitive - it's already reading the maximum, so I can't narrow it down anymore." He snorts lightly, "I don't suppose you actually know anything about massive energy releases being sent into another dimension?"
[00:18] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "The only massive energy releases into other dimensions I know of lately was me resealing the barriers between this dimension and the one Chibi Usa was from originally," she explains. "I was using the Holy Grail to restore them so that nothing else could break through them, but that's completely finished now - there won't be any more releases like that as far as I know."
[00:22] <Ebiris> "Holy Grail?" Zoisite blinks at that term. "Wait - so you HAVE been sending energy out of this dimension?"
[00:23] * Usagi-chan nods. "Definitely NOT to your Serenity though - like I said, we've needed to do it to repair the walls between this dimension and another one - they almost collapsed here not too long ago."
[00:25] <Ebiris> He shakes his head, "We don't understand the hows or whys of it, but Serenity is definitely still drawing some sort of power from this dimension. We know that for a fact."
[00:25] * Usagi-chan frowns, pulling out the Holy Grail to examine it for any sort of energy drain that she might not have noticed before.
[00:26] <Ebiris> As you withdraw the grail, there is a brief shattering sound coming from Zoisite. He reaches into his pocket and grimaces as he pulls out several shards of formerly glowing crystal. "I think we've found the source," he deadpans.
[00:27] <Ebiris> OOC: soul check, +4
[00:27] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+4
[00:27] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+4 and gets 13."
[00:27] <Ebiris> Eh. Looks the same as always to you.
[00:29] * Usagi-chan frowns and doublechecks it - with what happened to Zoisite's crystal it's obvious the Grail is the mysterious energy source, but perhaps she's merely missed it in her first look.
[00:29] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+4
[00:29] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+4 and gets 14."
[00:30] <Ebiris> Nope. It's a Grail. It's filled with unimaginable power. The same power it's always had, with nothing currently draining that power to put to any use. Seriously.
[00:31] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I don't see anything different about it, but... I just don't know. I mean, it's obvious this is what's setting your crystal off, but it looks the same as always to me."
[00:32] <Ebiris> "I can tell that thing's horribly powerful," Zoisite says, squinting at the ornamental chalice. "It wouldn't surprise me if that's what Serenity was drawing upon... but how can we stop it if you can't even tell what's happening to it?"
[00:34] <Usagi-chan> "I want to talk to the Professor about it, but for now, let me try something." Aware that she might just possibly be missing the source of the trouble, Usagi concentrates, trying to refocus the natural aura of energy the Grail puts off back into itself. If this Serenity is drawing off its power somehow, perhaps if she keeps it as self-contained as possible for now it'll stop her from doing anything further until the problem can be fixed.
[00:36] <Ebiris> OOC: soul check, +6
[00:36] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+6
[00:36] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+6 and gets 16."
[00:37] <Ebiris> It's... extremely difficult. While manipulating the energy that comes from the Grail comes naturally to you, it seems to resist any attempt to feed that energy back into the source - like pushing two positively charged magnets together, only a lot harder.
[00:39] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "No good - come on, let's go see the Professor. He's probably still here - he usually stays for a few hours after school." Usagi stores the Grail away yet again, heading out into the hall where she picks up a phone and dials the extension for the professor's lab.
[00:39] <Ebiris> It rings about five times before Eudial's voice answers. "Hello?"
[00:40] <Usagi-chan> "Eudial? It's Usagi - is the Professor still here? I need to talk to him about something," the blonde says into the receiver.
[00:41] <Ebiris> "Oh, hi Usagi," Eudial's voice comes back. "Yeah, he's here. Just a second." The phone is put down and a few seconds later you hear Professor Tomoe's voice; "Hello? Usagi?"
[00:42] <Usagi-chan> "Hey, Professor. I've got... a visitor here with me, and he's got a problem I really need your help to figure out. Can we meet somewhere here at the school?"
[00:43] <Ebiris> "Of course, Usagi," he replies after a moment, "Just go up to my office. I'll be there in a minute myself."
[00:44] <Usagi-chan> "We'll meet you there," Usagi says, hanging up. She turns to Zoisite. "Just follow me - if anyone will have an idea of what's going on, it'll be the Professor." She gives the general a smile, then turns to head for the elevators up to the professor's fifth floor office.
[00:46] <Ebiris> Zoisite and Chibi Usa both follow you, finding the office unlocked but empty. A few moments later, Tomoe arrives, dressed in his usual labcoat and slacks. "What's the problem, Usagi?" he asks, getting right down to business, "Er... miss?" he looks at Zoisite questioningly.
[00:48] * Usagi-chan giggles at that. "Sir, actually. This is Zoisite - one of the Dark Kingdom's generals in our world, but apparently he's not from our world." Quickly, she lays out what she understands of the general's story so far, finishing with the dimensional sealing apparently being the source of his woes. "Do you have any idea what might be happening?"
[00:50] <Ebiris> Taking off his glasses and cleaning them as he thinks, Tomoe takes some time to respond. "It is possible that some of the grails power leaked into an adjacant dimension when you were sealing the barrier - and it is possible that someone skilled enough could have used that to forge a connection with the grail. Both are fairly unlikely, but..." he shrugs.
[00:50] <Ebiris> "Being what it is, the grails energy would be able to pass between dimensions with almost no resistance."
[00:51] * Usagi-chan sighs. "That's what I was afraid of, but I've looked for any kind of link on the Grail itself and couldn't find anything. Do you think your scanners might be able to pick something up that I might have missed?"
[00:52] <Ebiris> Tomoe nods. "If you'll come down to my lab?" he gestures for the door.
[00:52] <Usagi-chan> "Sure," Usagi agrees, following the Professor out of the office.
[00:55] <Ebiris> Zoisite and Chibi Usa both follow you to the elevator, which promptly takes you down to the basement. Entering the lab, you see Eudial hunched over a desk with some machine or other, looking up to see you. "Hi, Usagi," she smiles, before her eyes widen slightly. Stepping away from the desk and walking forward with a slight sway, she smiles at Zoisite. "Who's your friend?"
[00:55] * Usagi-chan grins wryly. "Eudial, meet Zoisite - one of the former generals of the Dark Kingdom, except that this one is from a different world."
[00:56] <Ebiris> Zoisite, for his part, draws closer to the Professor. "Charmed," he replies simply.
[00:56] <Ebiris> Tomoe himself soon leaves the general, going over to begin tinkering with a console he had set up from when you were sealing the barrier.
[00:57] * Usagi-chan goes over to watch the Professor, keeping more of an eye on Eudial though - most of the technical stuff goes miles over her head anyway.
[00:58] <Ebiris> Eudial doesn't seem interested in what you're doing at all, choosing instead to flirt quite openly with Zoisite. The effeminate man manages to deflect her probings with surprising grace and aplomb however, which sadly just seems to encourage her. After a few moments, "Usagi, could you take out the grail, please?"
[00:59] <Usagi-chan> "Of course," Usagi replies, doing just that. She has to keep from giggling a bit at Eudial's antics, though - she can't help but feel a bit sorry for Zoisite.
[01:00] <Ebiris> Zoisite doesn't really seem to mind too much, actually. He's definitely not interested (although Eudial seems to ignore or not notice), but he's rather charming nonetheless.
[01:00] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[01:00] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[01:01] <Ebiris> "Hmm..." Tomoe peers at the readout, before looking up. "It does appear that energy from the grail is actually moving into another dimension."
[01:02] <Usagi-chan> "Is there any way for us to stop it?" Usagi asks, concentrating more on the professor than the gibberish on the screen.
[01:04] <Ebiris> "I'm not sure..." he frowns. "There is someone actively drawing energy on the other end, after all. If you can control the grail well enough, severing the connection is possible, but the other reciever might be able to re-establish it..."
[01:05] * Usagi-chan sighs, considering. "Then it sounds like we've really got two options - either I try to shut it off from this end and watch it like a hawk from here on out, or I go deal with the problem on the other end."
[01:08] <Ebiris> The Professor frowns a bit at that. "Usagi, you still haven't fully recovered from your experiences in Chibi Usa's dimension. You girls can't police the whole multiverse." Straightening up, "Besides that, I don't believe the window for reconnection will be very long - after you cut the flow, the person on the other end would have to use the energy still in transit to force a reconnection."
[01:10] <Usagi-chan> "Then we can try that first, I guess," Usagi says. "I'm not saying I have to go there, but if I can't shut it off from this end I don't see what else I can do." She sighs a bit. "How would I go about cutting it off? I can't even see where the drain is coming from."
[01:13] <Ebiris> "Not surprising - the energy of the grail is vast and constantly replenishes itself. The drain is effectively inconsequential," Tomoe notes.
[01:13] <Ebiris> "However, it could be that you're thinking in spatial terms - looking for a line of energy moving away from the grail. The energy is actually moving from inside the grail through into the other dimension. I suggest you either try to 'freeze' all energy being produced, or if that fails try to drain it away on some other task - although that would be far riskier."
[01:15] * Usagi-chan nods. "I guess so, yeah. I could probably flare off its energy, but it'd be visible for miles if I did it. I tried to reroute all the energy back into it, but that didn't work - but I'll see if I can freeze it, hold on." Closing her eyes, she lets her form change into that of Serenity, knowing that for this kind of delicate work she can handle the Grail's energy much better as the Queen.
[01:15] * Usagi-chan is now known as Serenity
[01:16] <Ebiris> OOC: soul check +3
[01:16] <Serenity> roll 2d6+3
[01:16] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6+3 and gets 8."
[01:17] <Ebiris> Seeing it now... it's like there's just a tiny pinhole inside the grail, the energy spiralling through it being replaced almost instantly.
[01:17] <Ebiris> OOC: soul check +2
[01:17] <Serenity> roll 2d6+2
[01:17] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6+2 and gets 7."
[01:18] <Serenity> "It's tiny," Serenity says in wonder. "It's no wonder I didn't notice it before."
[01:18] <Ebiris> rol 2d6
[01:18] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[01:18] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[01:19] <Ebiris> The drain stops... and doesn't start again. Looks like you've made a clean cut. "Yes... that seems to have done it," Tomoe says, looking over his monitor.
[01:20] * Serenity keeps an eye on it for a few moments longer to make sure. "So far..."
[01:21] <Ebiris> The grail remains completely stable, no new pinhole to another dimension being formed. "Have you figured anything out, yet?" Zoisite calls over from next to Eudial, who doesn't seem to notice anything but him.
[01:22] <Serenity> "I think it's stopped," Usagi says, turning to face the general. "I found the leak and managed to cut off the drain out of it, and so far it hasn't showed back up again yet."
[01:24] <Ebiris> Zoisite grins, and you are reminded of his expression right after Tuxedo Mask gave him the Rainbow Crystals that fateful night at Starlight Tower. "Good. Without that new energy backing them up, we can fight the Moon Kingdom on a more even footing, now."
[01:25] * Serenity quickly grows very solemn indeed, her eyes narrowing as she looks at Zoisite - the master of double-dealing, she remembers.
[01:27] <Ebiris> He looks rather pleased with himself at the moment. "Anyway, now that I've dealt with things here, I just need to wait for my pickup back home. After that we hopefully won't have cause to see each other again." His eyes flicker to Eudial and he looks almost relieved. The redhead on the other hand looks a bit upset, although not devastatingly so.
[01:28] <Serenity> "I think you can wait right here," Usagi says, her tone suddenly hard as diamond. "Professor, do you have any idea how much energy was being pulled through that leak?" she asks, never taking her eyes off the blonde general.
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[01:31] <Ebiris> Zoisite frowns himself, starting to wonder if maybe he made a large error in judgement - you can sense magic being subtly called upon once more as he tenses slightly. Tomoe taps a few keys before speaking, "I can't confirm it now, but it looked to be around 15% of what the grail produces at any time. Perhaps a deviation of 3% either way."
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[01:33] <Serenity> "Eudial, I think you want to keep a close eye on our 'friend' there," Usagi says, making it clear that he's anything but. "I wouldn't want him to try anything funny." Her eyes flicker over to the Professor. "Is it possible to reestablish that link from this side, or to communicate with that dimension at all?"
[01:34] <Ebiris> "Huh?" Eudial looks confused, while Zoisite looks mortified. "You CAN'T be serious?!" he demands incredulously.
[01:35] * Sleeping-Rat is now known as C-Rat
[01:35] <Serenity> "Let's just say I'd rather be sure," Usagi says, giving Zoisite a very hard look indeed. "One thing I remember about Zoisite - he always liked to fool us into thinking he wasn't going to do anything, then stab us in the back when we weren't expecting it." Her eyes narrow. "Professor?"
[01:38] <Ebiris> "No! I won't let you doom us all!" Zoisite cries, preparing for battle.
[01:38] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[01:38] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[01:38] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[01:38] <Serenity> roll 1d6+5
[01:38] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 1d6+5 and gets 6."
[01:40] <Ebiris> With a cry of "Zoi!" the effeminate general thrusts his arms out and releases a sakura patterned blast of energy!
[01:40] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[01:40] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[01:40] <Ebiris> Straight at the Professor's console which explodes in a shower of sparks, utterly ruined!
[01:40] <Serenity> roll 2d6
[01:40] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[01:41] * Serenity scowls, her suspicions confirmed by that maneuver. Thrusting her hand aloft, she lets her brooch appear in it, shouting out the words of her transformation! "Moon Purity Power, Make UP!"
[01:41] * Serenity is now known as Sailor_Moon
[01:42] <Sailor_Moon> "The truth, Zoisite!" she growls.
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[01:44] <Ebiris> Eudial backs off, hurrying for the desk she was at earlier, while Tomoe shields his eyes from the explosion. "I TOLD you the truth! You're the one trying to send power back to those monsters!" he yells shrilly, his poise utterly ruined.
[01:44] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[01:44] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[01:44] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[01:44] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[01:44] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+9
[01:44] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+9 and gets 13."
[01:44] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[01:45] * C-Rat has quit IRC (Connection reset by peer)
[01:46] * Working-Plush has joined #evildunes
[01:46] <Ebiris> Looking really panicked right now, Zoisite points is arms straight down and cries out "Zoi!" once more, this time releasing a thick screen of energy and sakura as he turns and bolts!
[01:46] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[01:46] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[01:47] * Sailor_Moon flings one hand out, sending forth a powerful beam of energy meant to send the general sprawling!
[01:47] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+1
[01:47] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+1 and gets 9."
[01:47] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[01:47] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
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[01:48] * Princess_Herb[bbl] has joined #evildunes
[01:49] * Musk-bot has joined #evildunes
[01:49] <Ebiris> Zoisite is hit easily, going sprawling and rolling over several times before landing heavily, looking a bit dazed. Meanwhile, Eudial grabs her Fire Buster and looks at you questioningly.
[01:49] <Sailor_Moon> "Keep him covered... I don't trust him, I've seen that look WAY too many times," Usagi replies, heading out of the room to confront the fallen Zoisite.
[01:51] <Ebiris> He's lying down on his stomach, the back of his trenchcoat utterly ruined, although his grey uniform seems intact beneath. "Unh..." he slowly starts to recover, pushing himself up to rise.
[01:57] * Sailor_Moon plants her foot on Zoisite's back, pushing him back down. "Why so panicked when I asked to TALK to the other dimension, Zoisite? Afraid I'm going to get a different story if I try it?"
[01:58] <Ebiris> He stays down - physical combat isn't his forte anymore than it was this world's Zoisite. "I was more worried about the talk of re-establishing the connection, frankly," he spits, barely getting his head up from the floor.
[01:59] <Sailor_Moon> "Then why destroy the console?" Usagi says with a scowl. "That wouldn't make any difference at all - I'M the one who'd have to do the work in reestablishing the link."
[02:00] <Ebiris> "Not without any record of where the link went to," he replies, a smidge triumphantly. "I did pay attention to what you were talking about - that console had all of the Professor's readings in it."
[02:02] * Sailor_Moon smiles. "Not if I just start doing what did this whole thing in the first place," she replies. "Just release the energy into strengthening the dimensional barriers and let Serenity latch onto it again. I've seen that look on your face too many times, Zoisite - that look that says you've got what you want and I'm about to get it."
[02:05] <Ebiris> "I don't know about you getting anything, but I did have what I wanted," he replies angrily. "We don't stand a chance against the Moon Kingdom using that kind of power!"
[02:05] <Ebiris> Tomoe himself speaks up, "That would be extremely unwise, Usagi. There were a few times when you nearly lost control of the energy you were using - I suspect that is what prompted this. There's no telling what other dimensions you could affect."
[02:07] * Working-Plush is now known as Haruka
[02:08] * Sailor_Moon ignores the Professor for the moment. "You'll pardon me for not believing you completely - Zoisite was always ready and willing to lie to get what he wanted. And why would my power make that much of a difference? Unless Serenity's lost the Silver Crystal for some reason in that world too, there wouldn't be any NEED for the Grail's energy if she was really as bad as you say.
[02:08] <Sailor_Moon> She could just use the Crystal to wipe out the resistance in nothing flat."
[02:08] <Ebiris> "Of course she lost the crystal!" Zoisite snaps, "How else do you think we sealed the Moon away to begin with?!"
[02:08] * Ebiris is now known as Rei-chan
[02:09] * Rei-chan is now known as Ebiris
[02:09] <Sailor_Moon> "How? And what started the war?" Usagi snaps back. "It's not exactly something you lose in the couch cushions!"
[02:12] <Ebiris> "It vanished at the final battle when King Endymion used the Golden Crystal of Elysion to repel Queen Serenity's attack!" Zoisite snaps, sounding truly aggrieved. "She and her accursed Crystal were both destroyed!"
[02:14] <Sailor_Moon> "Then why are you still fighting them? With the Queen and her crystal gone, you should have been able to overrun the kingdom easily," Usagi says in a level tone. "The senshi are powerful, but they're not invincible."
[02:16] <Ebiris> "More powerful than any of us in single combat," Zoisite snorts. "Are you just looking for excuses to doubt me, now? In that case you might as well just kill me. Whether I die to you here or home makes no difference."
[02:18] <Sailor_Moon> "That smirk on your face is reason enough to doubt you as far as I'm concerned," Usagi spits. "But I'm not going to kill someone who can't fight back - whatever your Serenity would or wouldn't do, I don't do things that way." She takes her foot off the blonde general's back.
[02:18] <Sailor_Moon> "I just hope to whoever's out there that I haven't doomed some other dimension from some kind of double cross." She scowls.
[02:19] <Ebiris> Zoisite slowly stands up, dusting himself off, while Tomoe approaches you a touch hesitantly. "Usagi... perhaps you should calm down? He hasn't given us any reason to doubt that I can see. And it really isn't our place to meddle in other dimensions - and whether we knew it or not, that energy leak was meddling."
[02:22] * Sailor_Moon closes her eyes for a moment, sighing. "For better or worse, it's done now," Usagi says, frowning at the gray-suited man. "Just go home and don't bother us anymore, all right?"
[02:24] <Ebiris> "Gladly," Zoisite says, releasing a loud sigh before turning on his heel and walking -  a bit unsteadily - out of the lab.
[02:24] <Ebiris> "Usagi," Eudial speaks up, setting her flamethrower down, "Are you alright? That was just... what the hell did he do to set you off like that?"
[02:26] * Sailor_Moon closes her eyes, shuddering a bit. "It's just... seeing that smirk on his face AGAIN brought back every last time the Zoisite in this world double-crossed us. I still don't know whether he was telling the truth or not - after everything that person's done, I don't know what I CAN trust from him anymore." Her shoulders slump. "I still don't know whether I just did the right thing or not."
[02:28] <Ebiris> "The Professor's right," Eudial shrugs, "What happens in another dimension isn't our concern. But... wasn't that reaction a bit, well... extreme just for a smirk?" As she talks to you, Tomoe moves away to the far wall and picks up the phone to make a call.
[02:30] <Sailor_Moon> "He was the one responsible for Mamoru getting wounded and taken by the Dark Kingdom the first time," she says, the pain evident on her face. "He swindled him out of the last two Rainbow Crystals, nearly killed both him and me in an elevator, and then stabbed him in the back, all in the space of an hour."
[02:32] <Ebiris> "Didn't seem like such a bad guy to me..." Eudial mumbles, a bit apologetic when you put it like that. Meanwhile, Tomoe puts down the phone, and a moment later Cyprine teleports into the room.
[02:33] * Sailor_Moon feels tears begin to flow from her eyes. "He didn't to me either, but then everything just came back all at once. I hate it when I don't know whether what I'm doing is right!" she sobs, wiping her eyes with the back of her glove.
[02:35] <Ebiris> "Ack! Don't cry!" Eudial hurries over and pats your back, while Cyprine looks rather uncomfortable to be here, only shaking her head at the Professor before vanishing once more.
[02:38] <Sailor_Moon> "It's... I KNOW I was overreacting, but I just couldn't stand the thought of him doing it to me AGAIN!" she sniffles, still crying. "For all I know, I just cut off the Moon's last hope in his world - or it could have been just like he said. I just don't KNOW!" she says angrily.
[02:39] <Ebiris> "Well... can't you sense evil like Rei can? Did he seem evil to you at all?" Eudial asks, obviously out of her depth here.
[02:39] * Anastasia-chan has quit IRC (QUIT: -=SysReset 2.53=-)
[02:40] <Sailor_Moon> "No, but then neither did you when we first met," Usagi sniffles. "And I couldn't sense back when I first knew him, so I didn't have anything to compare it to. For all I know, he could have been brainwashed the same way you guys were."
[02:41] <Ebiris> "Oh..." Eudial isn't quite sure how to respond to that. "Look, Usagi... maybe you should just take it easy for a few days? Whatever happens in another dimension, you're important to protecting this one. Why don't you go home and get some rest?" she suggests kindly.
[02:43] * Sailor_Moon nods, still tearing up as she lets her transformation go. "Thanks, Eudial... I'm sorry I caused so much trouble, Professor," Usagi says, turning to the lab-coated man.
[02:43] * Sailor_Moon is now known as Usagi-chan
[02:44] <Ebiris> "That's alright," Eudial coos, patting your back as the Professor looks up from his wrecked console and nods. "Come on. I'll drive you home," she continues soothingly, guiding you out of the lab.
[02:44] * Usagi-chan blanches at that, but doesn't have the heart to say no as Eudial leads her out of the lab.
[02:46] <Ebiris> ---------
[02:48] <Ebiris> A week or so later, things have settled down for Usagi. After school the following Tuesday, she finds herself in her bedroom after dinner, catching up on some difficult homework she left to the last minute.
[02:52] <Ebiris> You're fairly immersed in your studies when you hear a polite rapping at your door nearly an hour after starting.
[02:52] <Usagi-chan> "Who is it?" Usagi calls out, looking back at the door for a moment.
[02:53] <Ebiris> "Ami," the familiar voice of your most studious friend answers.
[02:53] <Usagi-chan> "Come on in," Usagi says. "Just working on some homework."
[02:54] * Sick_Mako-chan has joined #evildunes
[02:54] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Sick_Mako-chan
[02:55] <Ebiris> The door opens to admit Ami, dressed in a nice blue blouse and white skirt. Smiling politely, "Hello... s-Usagi," she says, a very slight hesitation on your name. (OOC: Soul check)
[02:55] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[02:55] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[02:57] <Ebiris> As Ami closes the door behind her, you are nearly startled out of your chair by what you see - her aura, it's... gah! Bloody hell, Ami Mizuno should NOT have an aura like this. Glacial and frigid as always, it's tainted deeply with a profound shadow of darkness and malevolence, twisting right into the very core of her inner being.
[02:58] * Usagi-chan tries not to shudder at the awful sense of this Ami's aura. Keeping her tone light, she lets one hand drop into her subspace pocket out of the genius's sight, bringing out her transformation brooch as she does so. "Hey, Ami-chan - something I can help you with?" she asks lightly.
[03:00] <Ebiris> "Actually, yes," Ami smiles, looking for all the world to be the friendly, if slightly introverted, girl you know. Approaching you, she goes on, "Do you mind showing me the Holy Grail for a moment? I'd like to check on something with my computer."
[03:01] <Usagi-chan> "I don't think that's such a good idea, actually," Usagi says, leaping out her chair. "Moon Prism Power, Make UP!" she shouts, quickly transforming into the pretty sailor-suited soldier of love and justice, Sailor Moon!
[03:02] * Usagi-chan is now known as Sailor_Moon
[03:02] <Sailor_Moon> "I don't know who the hell you are, but you're sure not the Ami *I* know!" Usagi says, rounding on the blue-haired girl.
[03:03] <Ebiris> As you transform, Ami reacts just as quickly, her hand lashing forward as a knife of ice appears in her hand aimed at your neck. "My, but you are perceptive," she notes with a slight smirk, not seeming phased at all by your transformation. "I'll have to grail, regardless."
[03:03] <Ebiris> the grail*
[03:05] <Sailor_Moon> "I try," Usagi says, narrowing her eyes. "And you'll never get the Grail from me."
[03:07] <Ebiris> "Please don't be difficult, Serenity," Ami says, her eyes like chips of ice, "We can put that Grail to so much better use than you, living here amongst the rabble on Earth like one of them."
[03:08] <Sailor_Moon> "I've heard about your queen," Usagi says, mentally kicking herself briefly for her treatment of Zoisite again. "I'd rather destroy the Grail than see it fall into her hands."
[03:08] <Ebiris> "In that case, I suppose I shall have to take it," Ami responds, utterly calm as she tenses to attack!
[03:08] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[03:08] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[03:09] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+9
[03:09] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+9 and gets 14."
[03:09] * Sailor_Moon snaps her arm forward, firing off an energy bolt at the fragile knife of ice in the blue-haired girl's hand!
[03:09] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2
[03:09] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 and gets 7."
[03:10] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[03:10] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[03:11] <Ebiris> Ami is able to jerk her hand out of the bolt's path, also twisting her own body so that it sails through her previous position, shattering Usagi's door into kindling!
[03:12] <Ebiris> Spinning around, Ami brings up her knife to slash into Moon's fuku-clad body.
[03:12] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[03:12] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[03:12] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[03:12] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[03:12] <Ebiris> But Sailor Moon is able to nimbly dodge out of harm's way!
[03:12] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[03:12] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[03:12] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[03:12] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 18."
[03:14] * Sailor_Moon quickly whips off her tiara, hurling it at Ami even as she sends out a call to any of her friends that might be listening. 'Guys, I need help! My house, as fast as you can!' "Moon Tiara ACTION!"
[03:14] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[03:14] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[03:14] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+1
[03:14] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+1 and gets 11."
[03:17] <Ebiris> 'Usagi? What's going on? I'm on my way!' comes from Makoto as the tiara slices cleanly through Ami's shoulder, ruining her blouse as blood spurts out from the vicious wound! Hissing, Ami drops the knife and clamps a hand over the wound, glowing briefly blue as she freezes it. That done, she produces her pen and cries "Mercury Power, Make Up!" transforming herself!
[03:17] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[03:17] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[03:17] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[03:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 15."
[03:18] <Ebiris> Grimacing as she backs off slightly, Mercury holds her hands aloft as a ball of icy water forms there, spinning in place and releasing it at you with a cry of "Shine Aqua Illusion!"
[03:18] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[03:18] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[03:18] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2
[03:18] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 and gets 10."
[03:19] <Ebiris> The icy torrent batters Usagi, knocking her hard against the bedroom wall as she feels herself chilled to the very core by Mercury's frigid assault! (50 damage)
[03:21] * Sick_Mako-chan is now known as Makoto
[03:21] * Sailor_Moon clenches her teeth against the icy blast, drawing her own staff out as she fires off her most powerful attack at the twisted version of Mercury - it's clear that she's out for no less than Usagi's death herself. "Rainbow Moon Heartache!"
[03:21] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[03:21] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[03:21] * Makoto is now known as Sailor_Jupiter
[03:21] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+3
[03:21] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+3 and gets 14."
[03:25] <Ebiris> The massive heart flies out and engulfs Sailor Mercury! The soldier of ice, wisdom, and evil barely manages to get out a strangled shriek before she is obliterated entirely from this existence. As the light fades, you can see nothing left of her body except a few scraps of fabric from her fuku. That ice knife she dropped is now a puddle on your carpet.
[03:26] * Sailor_Moon pants heavily, a wave of horror passing over her as she realizes she just killed Ami. Then she remembers the other senshi's aura.... there's no way that could have been the Ami Mizuno she knows. Straightening up, she tries to drive the chill from her limbs, going to make sure that everyone else in the house is all right.
[03:26] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 for HP rejuv
[03:26] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for HP rejuv and gets 10."
[03:27] <Ebiris> Looking at your door you see Shingo and Chibi Usa staring through the splintered wood in utter horror at the scene they just witnessed. A few seconds later, a thumping on the stairs indicates Sailor Jupiter's hurried arrival.
[03:28] <Sailor_Moon> "Shingo, Chibi Usa, head up to the attic and pull the stairs up after you," Usagi says, straightening up. "Don't let anyone in for ANYTHING, all right? Not even if you think you know them - not even me!"
[03:29] <Ebiris> Chibi Usa's mouth works in mute horror, but Shingo decides now is not the time to argue with big sister, pulling Chibi Usa along as he hurries for the attic.
[03:30] <Sailor_Moon> "Mako-chan... thank god you're here." Usagi sighs. "I don't know how to explain this, but I was just attacked by an evil version of Ami." She points to the few tattered shreds of fuku lying on her bedroom floor to demonstrate.
[03:31] * Sailor_Jupiter looks at the tattered fuku in shock before looking at Usagi. "Usagi, what do you mean an evil Ami?"
[03:33] <Sailor_Moon> "She came at me with an ice knife - you can see what's left of THAT, too. She was from another dimension - they're after the Grail." She's still breathing rather heavily, a pained expression on her face.
[03:35] <Sailor_Jupiter> "How did you know she was from another dimension, Usagi?" Makoto asks carefully.
[03:36] <Sailor_Moon> "Because we had another visitor from there about a week ago - Zoisite," she says, closing her eyes. "Apparently Serenity and her senshi aren't such wonderful people in that world - she was drawing off the power of my Grail to fight against Earth, until I stopped it last week when he was here."
[03:37] * Sailor_Jupiter blinks at that. "Zoisite? Uhm... What happened with him then?"
[03:38] <Sailor_Moon> "He went back home as far as I know... I haven't seen him since." Usagi looks rather depressed at that, but doesn't elaborate much. "Come on, we need to find the others - I want to know where MY senshi are right now, I can't imagine that they only sent Ami through to this world."
[03:40] * Sailor_Moon attempts to contact the others telepathically. 'Ami? Rei? Can either of you guys hear me?'
[03:41] <Ebiris> No response comes from either of the other two senshi...
[03:41] <Sailor_Moon> "Nothing from Rei or Ami... we'd better get out there," Usagi says grimly. "The shrine's a bit closer - let's go!"
[03:42] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Wouldn't Ami be more important? If she was being replaced, wouldn't they want to take care of her first?" Makoto asks, though she follows Usagi.
[03:44] <Sailor_Moon> "I don't think they were trying to replace us, but we can check on her first," Usagi replies, although not without a pang of regret - she wants to make sure her love is safe. "They're after the Grail, from what Ami said - and it fits with what's happened so far with Zoisite." She changes course mid-stride, heading for Ami's apartment building.
[03:45] <Ebiris> You reach the apartment building quickly enough, though not without drawing a few gawkers as you race through Juuban. The place looks innocuous enough from the outside...
[03:45] * Sailor_Moon charges in through the lobby, heading for the stairs - it may be a ways up, but she's learned not to trust elevators in emergencies.
[03:46] <Ebiris> Up, up, up the stairs you go! Arriving on Ami's floor, you find the Mizuno residence just down the hallway...
[03:47] * Sailor_Moon heads down the hallway at a run, pounding on the door of the Mizuno apartment. "Is anyone here?" she yells, not caring if she disturbs anyone else.
[03:47] <Sailor_Jupiter> Though she's sure Usagi's been trying to reach them mentally, Makoto tries the communicator as Usagi pounds on the door of Ami's place.
[03:47] <Ebiris> "Coming!" Artemis' voice greets you, a moment later the door being opened by said Mau in human form. "Usagi? What's going on?"
[03:48] <Sailor_Moon> "Do you know where Ami is right now?" Usagi blurts out in a rush.
[03:49] <Ebiris> Makoto: After letting it ring for a minute, you still get no response on Ami's communicator.
[03:49] <Ebiris> "Ami? She said she was visiting Rei. Something about meditation... why? Is something wrong?" Artemis looks worried.
[03:50] <Sailor_Moon> "That would explain why I can't reach either of them," Usagi mutters. "Yeah, something's wrong - but it's kind of crazy to explain. We're headed to the Shrine now - we can explain on the way, if you're coming."
[03:51] <Ebiris> "Of course!" Artemis promptly exits into the hallway, closing the door behind him.
[03:51] * Sailor_Jupiter bites her lips a bit at Artemis' line though she keeps quiet. Usagi had wanted to go to Rei's place first too.
[03:52] * Sailor_Moon races out of the apartment building, giving Artemis the condensed version of Zoisite's visit and the attack at her own home just a few minutes before.
[03:53] <Ebiris> Artemis seems rather shocked by your story, but shelves any questions for later as you three race through Juuban towards Hikawa Shrine...
[03:53] <Sailor_Moon> As the three run through the streets of Juuban, Usagi opens her senses, looking for any traces of auras like the one she saw in the twisted senshi of Mercury.
[03:53] <Ebiris> OOC: soul check, +3
[03:54] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+3
[03:54] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+3 and gets 9."
[03:54] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6+3
[03:54] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6+3 and gets 11."
[03:55] <Ebiris> Not hard at all, really - you can sense a cluster of them dead ahead of you, at your destination. Hikawa sure is a den of evil today, that's for sure.
[03:55] * Sailor_Moon redoubles her speed, racing towards the Shrine as fast as she can force herself to go!
[03:56] * Midnight has joined #evildunes
[03:56] <Ebiris> The three of you arrive at Hikawa in record time, reaching the base of the Shrine steps. There's definitely evil up ahead...
[03:57] * Sailor_Moon doesn't even pause as she sprints up the stairs. 'I'm coming, Rei!' she sends to the miko.
[04:02] <Ebiris> No reply comes from Rei... ascending the stairs, you are greeted by a sight that sends shivers down your spine. Seeing yourself is odd, but seeing yourself with an aura so utterly saturated with pure mind numbing evil kicks it up by several notches.
[04:02] <Ebiris> Sitting over by the Shrine itself, and rising to greet you, is Princess Serenity, a condescending smile on her lips. She's flanked by two Sailor Mars' - the one on her left looking badly burnt, extremely unhappy, and with an aura filled to the brim with evil. The other one... looks like a zombie, more or less. She's only a little roughed up, but her eyes are dead, her aura weak and pitiful...
[04:02] <Ebiris> Sailors Jupiter and Venus stand over near the entrance of Rei's house, sneers on their lips and the unconscious forms of Hotaru and Ami at their feet. Venus has blonde hair and blue eyes, for those who note such things, while Jupiter is an exact double for Makoto. Those two look a little roughed up themselves, though they both stand tall.
[04:04] * Sailor_Moon narrows her eyes, drawing to a rapid halt as she sizes up the situation. "Let her go!" she shouts.
[04:05] <Ebiris> "Hmm?" Serenity smirks at you. "Why should I? Losing poor Ami hurt us terribly. But having another Rei makes up for it nicely..." she reaches over to pet the Mars on her right like one would an animal, the raven-haired girl shuddering slightly at the contact.
[04:05] <Sailor_Jupiter> 'The hell?' Makoto thinks briefly as she stands battle ready. It was one thing to believe Usagi talk about evil clones, it was a bit different to actually witness them.
[04:06] * Sailor_Moon practically snarls. "I will NOT let you take her," Usagi snaps, a fire raging in her eyes at the sight of her love in such a condition.
[04:09] <Ebiris> "Why don't we let her decide?" Serenity smiles brightly, leaning closer to your Rei - you can't help but note the other Rei looking even more unhappy at that. "Rei, why don't you kill that imposter for me, dear?" she asks sweetly. Rei shudders some more, a pained gurgle coming from her lips before Serenity's pendant glows brightly, energy flowing into the Sailor! Rejuvenised, Mars snarls slightly and takes a shaky step towards you!
[04:10] <Sailor_Moon> "Rei, I know you can hear me," Usagi says, trying desperately to reach out to her girlfriend. "You don't have to do this - fight it, I know you have it in you!"
[04:13] <Ebiris> Rei's violet eyes look utterly dead, no life at all in them. Whatever Serenity just did with her energy also looks to be rather unstable - her fiery aura is actually igniting a few real flames around her, seemingly without any control. "Hurry up and kill her, Rei. We do have a world to conquor back home," Serenity calls primly.
[04:13] <Ebiris> "Makoto, why don't you have some fun with your counterpart as well? Might be an idea for Minako to help, too - don't want you winding up like poor Ami, do we?" Jupiter and Venus both nod grimly, stepping forward...
[04:13] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[04:13] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[04:13] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 18."
[04:14] <Ebiris> roll 3#1d6
[04:14] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 3#1d6 and gets 6, 2, 5."
[04:15] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6
[04:15] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[04:18] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Two against one? Yeesh" Makoto says with a frown before looking at her counterpart. "Oh well, don't have to hold back so...Supreme Thunder Dragon!"
[04:18] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[04:18] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[04:18] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6
[04:18] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[04:19] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[04:19] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[04:20] <Ebiris> The evil version of Sailor Jupiter ducks under the crackling electrical attack with grace and agility. "Feh, like I can't predict my own attacks," she snorts, briefly shooting a nasty look over at the badly burnt Sailor Mars standing next to Serenity before focusing entirely on the battle at hand.
[04:22] <Ebiris> Sailor Venus' eyes light up as she spots Artemis hanging back out of the battle, and the blonde decides to forget about helping her 'partner'. "Oh man, I can't resist!" she giggles, pointing at the Mau, "Crescent Beam!"
[04:22] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[04:22] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[04:22] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+1
[04:22] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+1 and gets 7."
[04:22] <Ebiris> "Aaaah!" Artemis cries out as the beam drills a hole in his shoulder, promptly falling over and reverting to his feline state.
[04:24] * Sailor_Moon only has eyes for one person on the battlefield. Calling forth her staff from subspace, she slowly describes a circle around herself, letting a wave of healing energy flow forth to purify and revitalize the staggering Sailor Mars. "Moon Healing Escalation!" She grimaces as the attack begins. 'I love you, Rei-chan... please, snap out of it!'
[04:24] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[04:24] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[04:24] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[04:24] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[04:26] <Ebiris> Faltering a bit, Rei's aura seems to calm down, while her eyes regain some of their life. "Usa...gi..." she whispers, sounding pained as she tries to fight off your counterpart's control.
[04:26] <Ebiris> "I don't think so," Serenity scowls, stepping forward and touching her pendant, silver light shining forth at Rei!
[04:26] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[04:26] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[04:27] <Ebiris> The evil Princess' power washes away your healing, reaffirming her control over your beloved Rei-chan!
[04:28] <Ebiris> Meanwhile the other Jupiter smirks cockily at the native version, "Lets see if you're any good on the recieving end yourself?" she asks, rearing back and crying out "Supreme Thunder Dragon!" as she releases her attack at Makoto!
[04:28] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[04:28] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[04:29] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[04:29] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[04:29] <Ebiris> But Makot has no trouble at all sidestepping the attack, just making her double look bad!
[04:30] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[04:30] <Ebiris> roll 3#1d6
[04:30] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 3#1d6 and gets 4, 6, 6."
[04:30] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[04:30] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 14."
[04:30] <Sailor_Jupiter> "What was that you said earlier? 'Feh, like I can't predict my own attacks'," Makoto taunts at her double.
[04:30] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[04:30] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 17."
[04:31] <Ami-chan> roll 1d6+11
[04:31] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 1d6+11 and gets 15."
[04:33] <Ebiris> "Grrr..." the other Jupiter snarls, turning crimson in anger as she loses her cool, promptly rushing in to physically brain Mako-chan!
[04:33] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[04:33] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[04:33] * Ami-chan slowly begins to stir, then stops, her eyes slitting open as she looks around...
[04:34] <Ebiris> OOC: defend, Makoto
[04:34] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[04:34] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[04:35] <Ebiris> Jupiter is easily able to bat the clumsy and angry swing aside like it was nothing, only serving to further rile the other Jupiter up!
[04:36] <Ebiris> Giggling maniacally after shooting Artemis, Minako turns her attention back to Jupiter and cries out "Crescent Beam!" once more as she points, shooting a golden laser beam of death at Makoto!
[04:36] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[04:36] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[04:37] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6+2
[04:37] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6+2 and gets 7."
[04:37] * Midnight is now known as Natsume
[04:37] <Ebiris> But Makoto continues her run of good dodging, tilting her head to the side while the beam whizzes by harmlessly.
[04:38] <Sailor_Jupiter> "C'mon, at least put some effort into it!" Makoto says, as she tries to kick her nearby counterpart.
[04:38] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[04:38] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[04:38] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[04:38] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[04:39] <Ebiris> With an angry snarl, the other Makoto brings up her leg to disrupt the kick before it can really hit her, proving that she isn't totally useless in a fight.
[04:41] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Well, I guess you aren't so worthless, are you?" Makoto says in a sweet voice, hoping to keep making her double angrier and angrier.
[04:42] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[04:42] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[04:42] <Ebiris> Seems to be working. She's looking really red in the face right now.
[04:42] * Sailor_Moon gives Rei a forlorn look. 'Just hang on, Rei-chan.... I won't let her take you away from me.'
[04:42] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 for EP rejuv
[04:42] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for EP rejuv and gets 9."
[04:43] <Ebiris> As you do so, Rei raises her clasped hands woodenly. "Fire..." she begins, her voice cracking.
[04:43] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[04:43] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[04:44] <Ebiris> "...Soul," she completes the phrase, a crazily spiralling fireball shooting forth at Sailor Moon!
[04:44] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[04:44] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[04:44] <Ebiris> But it misses, only scorching the paving!
[04:47] * Sailor_Moon gives Rei a smile at that. 'I knew you could fight it, Rei-chan - I'll help you!'
[04:48] * Ami-chan quietly rolls to her feet while the duplicates are busy assaulting her friends. Deciding to act before transforming, with a quick gesture, a mechanical sphere appears in her hands. She flips the switch and hurls it at 'Sailor Venus'!
[04:48] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6
[04:48] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[04:48] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[04:48] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[04:50] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[04:50] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[04:50] <Ebiris> "Ack!" Minako jolts, shuddering as the grenade detonates at her feet, before slumping to the ground.
[04:51] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[04:51] <Ebiris> roll 2#1d6
[04:51] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2#1d6 and gets 5, 1."
[04:51] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6+11
[04:51] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6+11 and gets 18."
[04:52] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[04:52] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 18."
[04:52] <Sailor_Jupit

[Ebiris]

[05:02] <Ebiris> Stepping forward, Serenity glares at Usagi. "I think it is time to cease the games. DIE!" she yells, her hands thrusting forward as she looses a giant wave of silver energy at Usagi!
[05:02] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:02] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 12."
[05:03] * Sailor_Jupiter shrugs, trying not to show her annoyance. "Out of juice? Ah well, not like you're being particularly troublesome anyhow."
[05:03] <Ebiris> The energy, while visually impressive, just seems to flow around Usagi like she were Moses parting the Red Sea, leaving the blonde rabbit utterly unscathed.
[05:08] * Ami-chan snaps her wrist, and her henshin wand appears in her hand, as the grenade did, moments ago. Raising it high, She calls out loudly... "Mercury Holy Power...MAKE UP!" In a flash of watery light, she becomes Sailor Mercury!
[05:08] * Ami-chan is now known as Sailor_Mercury
[05:08] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[05:08] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:08] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[05:08] <Ebiris> roll 2#1d6
[05:08] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2#1d6 and gets 5, 1."
[05:08] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[05:08] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 17."
[05:08] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 1d6+11
[05:08] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 1d6+11 and gets 16."
[05:09] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[05:09] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 15."
[05:12] * Sailor_Moon fixes the other princess with a cold glare. "You tried to take my Rei-chan...." she says quietly. "I won't forgive you for that. I agree, it's time to finish the games." With that calm, quiet speech, she raises the grail once again, unleashing a powerful torrent of energy towards the dark queen!
[05:12] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[05:12] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[05:12] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:12] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[05:14] <Ebiris> Clutching her pendant as silvery light bursts forth, Serenity tries to resist, but finds herself utterly outmatched, the full fury of the Grail too much for any defence she can muster. With a loud shriek, she is slain, falling to the ground as a pristine but completely lifelss corpse.
[05:15] <Ebiris> "Serenity!" the other Rei screams, running to her, while Jupiter's head snaps up towards the commotion, her mirth vanishing in an instant.
[05:17] * Sailor_Mercury takes advantage of Jupiter's distraction and in a well practiced move, she summons a watery blue sphere to her hand, and gestures at Makoto's double, an unreadable expression on her face. "Shine Aqua Illusion!"
[05:17] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6
[05:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[05:18] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 1d6
[05:18] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[05:18] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:18] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[05:19] <Ebiris> Turning at the sound of Mercury's attack, Jupiter is just able to dodge in the nick of time, her movements now far more fluid as she sets her face in an unreadable mask.
[05:21] <Sailor_Jupiter> 'Damn, looks like she doesn't want to play any more,' Makoto thinks. Figuring she's pretty low after the last disastrous attempt at a senshi attacks, she tries to use her control of electricity to try and paralyze her counterpart through her nervous system.
[05:21] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[05:21] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[05:22] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+3
[05:22] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+3 and gets 10."
[05:23] <Ebiris> "Aaah!" the other Makoto cries out sharply, quickly reining it in as she tries to control the pain and fight off Makoto's attack. Her stiff movements afterwards indicate only a slight success, though.
[05:24] <Ebiris> Ignoring Jupiter for now, she focuses on Sailor Moon, crying out "Sparkling Wide Pressure!" as she tosses a ball of lightning at the senshi of the Moon!
[05:24] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:24] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[05:24] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 (eating the penalty)
[05:24] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 (eating the penalty) and gets 7."
[05:24] * Sailor_Jupiter swears, as she fails to take her counterpart down with the trick
[05:25] <Ebiris> Stepping backwards, Moon avoids injury as the deadly attack sails right in front of her, just missing.
[05:25] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:25] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[05:25] <Ebiris> OOC: new round
[05:25] <Ebiris> roll 3#1d6
[05:25] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 3#1d6 and gets 2, 5, 4."
[05:26] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[05:26] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 18."
[05:26] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 1d6+11
[05:26] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 1d6+11 and gets 14."
[05:27] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2 for EP rejuv
[05:27] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 for EP rejuv and gets 12."
[05:29] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Dammit, stand down!" Makoto says without a trace of humor, not wanting to put her princess in danger like that again, as she pulls out her mace from subspace, striking at her counterpart.
[05:29] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[05:29] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[05:29] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:29] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[05:30] <Ebiris> Crying out in pain as the mace impacts her body with a sickening crunch, the other Makoto falls to her knees, her eyes clenched shut in pain as she breathes heavily, trying to recover.
[05:31] <Ebiris> Bouncing to her feet as if nothing had happened, Minako whirls on Ami, "Attacking from behind isn't very nice!" she declares, "I'll give you heaven's punishment! Venus Loveme Chain!" she cries, the golden chain of interlocking hearts flashing out at Sailor Mercury!
[05:32] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:32] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[05:32] <Ebiris> OOC: defend +2
[05:32] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6+2
[05:32] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[05:32] <Ebiris> Just ducking and twisting her body out of the way, Ami avoids the worst of the attack, it only damaging the antique wood walls of Rei's home.
[05:33] <Ebiris> Still on her knees and breathing heavily, an antenna appears from Jupiter's tiara, the girl crying out "Supreme Thunder!" as she looses a barrage of lightning at Sailor Moon!
[05:33] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:33] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[05:34] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 (eating penalty)
[05:34] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 (eating penalty) and gets 7."
[05:34] <Ebiris> Ducking, Moon dodges as the lightning passes harmlessly overhead!
[05:34] * Ranma007|work is now known as Ranma007|sleep
[05:37] * Sailor_Mercury glances at Minako, then, making a quick decision, she turns away from the Senshi of 'Love', and turns to the other Rei still advancing on Usagi. Mentally crossing her fingers, she repeats her earlier attack, firing a watery blue sphere at the raven haired girl! "Shine Aqua Illusion!"
[05:37] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6
[05:37] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[05:38] <Ebiris> The other Rei is still crouched brokenly over Serenity's dead body, and the attack sails right over her head without her noticing...
[05:39] <Ebiris> Standing up, Rei glares at Usagi. "You..." she breathes in a low tone. "You took her away from us..." Taking a step forward, she looks at the blonde with eyes that are not entirely sane. "Then I'll take away the one you love. Mars Snake Fire!" she calls, promptly launching her attack at her unconscious double!
[05:39] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:39] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[05:40] <Ebiris> The flaming snake barrels down on Rei's unresisting form... (DCV at +2 to take the hit for Rei should you choose to, Usagi)
[05:40] <Sailor_Moon> "NOOO!" Usagi screams, diving in the way of the attack to shield her love from the vicious flames!
[05:40] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2
[05:40] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 and gets 13."
[05:42] <Ebiris> Usagi is just a hair too late, only catching some residual heat as she lands on Rei, the miko terribly burnt, even her innate resistance to fire helping her little against this kind of attack.
[05:42] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[05:42] <Ebiris> roll 3#1d6
[05:43] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 3#1d6 and gets 6, 5, 6."
[05:43] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2 for rejuv EP
[05:43] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 for rejuv EP and gets 13."
[05:44] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[05:44] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 14."
[05:45] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 1d6+11
[05:45] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 1d6+11 and gets 15."
[05:46] <Ebiris> "Grr... you're a tricky one. Just like our Ami... was," Minako says brightly, seemingly unconcerned by Ami's dodging nor her own Ami's recent demise as she continues to manipulate her Loveme chain to hit the blue-haired senshi!
[05:46] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:46] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[05:46] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6
[05:46] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[05:47] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6+2
[05:47] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6+2 and gets 6."
[05:47] <Sailor_Mercury> OOC: Strike second roll.
[05:47] <Ebiris> This time the highly energetic chain finds its mark, cutting a deep gash down Ami's back! (71 damage)
[05:48] <Ebiris> Meanwhile, the other Makoto rises to her feet, shaking herself off before going for a disarming hit on Makoto's wrist!
[05:48] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[05:48] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[05:49] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[05:49] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[05:49] <Ebiris> Withdrawing her hand, Jupiter easily keeps herself and her grip safe.
[05:50] <Ebiris> Seeing Usagi lying on top of the not quite dead Rei, the other Rei hurries forward as best she can, staggering only a little as she lunges at the blonde!
[05:50] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:50] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[05:50] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[05:50] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[05:51] <Ebiris> As her hands come in to grab Usagi, however, she is able to bat them away and keep from being tossed off of Rei.
[05:52] <Sailor_Mercury> Staggering weakly, Ami withdraws another grenade from her subspace pocket, and thumbs the switch, hurling it at Minako desperately!
[05:52] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6
[05:53] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[05:53] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[05:53] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[05:54] <Ebiris> More prepared now, Minako simply hits the grenade with a move you'd kind of expect to see in volleyball, the sphere sailing off out of the Shrine. "Come on, Ami," she smiles, "Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on your mother!"
[05:57] <Sailor_Jupiter> Frowning at Ami's troubles, Makoto hopes she's making the right decision as she shouts, "Supreme Thunder!" while aiming the electrical attack at Minako, as opposed to her counterpart or the other Rei.
[05:57] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[05:57] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[05:57] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[05:57] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[05:58] <Ebiris> "Erk!" Minako convulses a brief second before she drops, her flesh smoking a good bit.
[05:58] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[05:58] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[05:58] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 17."
[05:58] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2 for rejuv EP
[05:58] <Ebiris> roll 2#1d6
[05:58] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 for rejuv EP and gets 12."
[05:58] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2#1d6 and gets 6, 1."
[05:59] <Ebiris> roll 1d6+11
[06:00] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6+11 and gets 15."
[06:01] * Sailor_Moon struggles to her feet, keeping herself between the twisted and true versions of Rei.
[06:01] * NeremWorld has quit IRC (Connection reset by peer)
[06:02] * Princess_Herb[bbl] is now known as Princess_Herb
[06:02] * NeremWorld has joined #evildunes
[06:05] <Sailor_Jupiter> Using up the last reserves of her energy, Makoto tries to protect Usagi as well, now that Minako seems taken care of. Turning, she throws the mace at the evil Rei with all of her strenght.
[06:05] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[06:05] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[06:05] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[06:05] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
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[06:07] <Ebiris> The mace smacks into Rei's face with a sickening crunch, caving her skull in and sending her flying backwards to land in a ruined, bloody heap next to Serenity. She won't be winning any beauty contests down at the morgue, now...
[06:07] * NeremWorld has quit IRC (SENDQ exceeded)
[06:08] * Sailor_Jupiter smiles tiredly at that. 'Good, both Usagi and Ami are okay...' she thinks as she fights to not fall unconscious, still having one opponent left.
[06:08] * Rod is now known as NeremWorld
[06:09] <Ebiris> Weakly hanging onto one of the supports around Rei's house as her back protests in agony, Ami struggles to help Makoto, focusing on her silver bracelet as she condenses water out of the air, aiming to freeze it into something useful...
[06:09] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[06:09] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[06:09] <Ebiris> But nothing is accomplished...
[06:09] <Sailor_Moon> 'They're together now, at least,' Usagi thinks sadly, biting her lip at the ruinous end of the evil Mars.
[06:10] <Ebiris> Seeing Rei meet her grisly fate, the other Makoto lets out an almost inhuman snarl, her hands promptly going for the nearest target, and finding Makoto's neck!
[06:10] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[06:10] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[06:10] * Princess_Herb has quit IRC (QUIT: REboot!)
[06:10] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[06:10] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[06:10] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[06:11] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[06:11] * Musk-bot has quit IRC (QUIT: RebOOt! -=SysReset 2.51=-)
[06:11] <Ebiris> Her hands clamp onto Makoto's neck and she begins squeezing the life out of her duplicate!
[06:11] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[06:11] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 12."
[06:11] <Ebiris> But she doesn't really grip on that tightly, and only bruises Makoto a little. (10 damage)
[06:12] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[06:12] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+9
[06:12] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+9 and gets 15."
[06:12] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[06:12] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[06:12] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[06:12] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6 for rejuv
[06:12] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 for rejuv and gets 4."
[06:12] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[06:13] <Sailor_Jupiter> "I'm not gone yet..." Makoto mutters as she fights to stay awake as her evil counterpart attacks, and succesfully finding some more energy.
[06:13] <Ebiris> Growling like an animal as she stares into Makoto's eyes with her own green orbs burning with hatred, the other Makoto tries to get a tighter grip, to end her double's life!
[06:13] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[06:13] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[06:14] <Ebiris> OOC: body check, +2 Makoto
[06:14] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[06:14] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[06:15] <Ebiris> Makoto starts to see spots in her vision as she just can't dislodge her counterpart's grip, the other girl pressing down tightly on her throat. (30 HP and 10 EP lost)
[06:16] <Sailor_Moon> "Just STOP this already!" Usagi screams, thrusting forward her palms as she uses the last shreds of her strength, firing off a powerful beam of energy at the enraged evil Jupiter!
[06:16] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[06:16] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[06:18] <Ebiris> Fully focused on killing Makoto, the other tall brunette doesn't even try to move, perhaps not noticing or perhaps not caring. Until the energy bolt tears into her flank and shreds her insides, some of it even bursting out the other side. Her eyes widen and her grip goes limp, falling on Makoto like a puppet with its strings cut.
[06:18] * Sailor_Moon covers her mouth at the carnage, collapsing to her knees as the tears begin. "Oh my god," she gasps.
[06:20] * Sailor_Jupiter coughs as her counterpart's hold weakens. "Well, that...that wasn't half bad..." Makoto gives a parting respecting remark to her counterpart.
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[06:20] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Prince_Herb
[06:20] <Ebiris> Ami struggles down from the porch, staggering weakly over to Makoto. "Makoto, oh God, are you alright?" she asks, heedless of her own rather brutal injury as she looks at the dark purple splotches on Jupiter's neck/
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[06:21] <Sailor_Jupiter> "I'll be fine, I think. My counterpart, on the other hand..." Makoto says quietly, as she continues to regain her breath.
[06:22] * Sailor_Moon keeps her eyes closed, letting out deep, gasping sobs. 'Why did this have to happen?' she thinks, weeping bitterly.
[06:22] <Ebiris> With a wet splat, the other Makoto falls to the ground, bleeding profusely on the Shrine paving stones. "Oh, God..." Ami covers her mouth, turning rather green.
[06:23] * Sailor_Moon cringes at the sound, shrinking in on herself.
[06:23] <Sailor_Jupiter> "How's Rei?" Makoto asks, as she finally looks away from the grisly sight. Witnessing your own death sorta is hardly something to think about.
[06:24] <Ebiris> Rei - the good one - is still lying face down on the ground, breathing shallowly and looking rather charred. She'll probably need a new haircut...
[06:25] <Sailor_Moon> "We killed them," Usagi finally manages to choke out.
[06:27] <Sailor_Jupiter> Gingerly getting up, Makoto walks over to Usagi. "We did what we had to, Usagi," Makoto says as she lays her hand on Usagi's shoulder.
[06:28] <Ebiris> Ami nods weakly, following Makoto and trying not to look at all the corpses littering this holy place.
[06:28] * Sailor_Moon 's shoulders shake. "That could have been any of us, though..." Usagi says, shaking her head. "I... it was like I was killing you guys - I know I wasn't, but... oh god, I never want to have to do anything like that again!"
[06:30] <Ebiris> "They would have done the same to any of us..." Ami glances over at the still breathing Rei and shudders. "Or worse."
[06:31] <Sailor_Moon> "I know," Usagi says, sniffling a bit as she tries to pull herself together. "It was still awful to have to watch that, though."
[06:31] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Don't worry, how often can we get attacked by evil us'es anyhow?" Makoto jokes weakly.
[06:32] <Ebiris> "Hopefully never again," Ami says in a weak voice. She's looking rather pale, and there's a nice big puddle of blood by her heels, you note.
[06:33] <Sailor_Moon> "Once is way too often as far as I'm concerned," Usagi says, finally turning her attention to her love - making sure that she'll be all right.
[06:34] <Ebiris> Rei's aura is extremely subdued, but stable. She's not mobing much except for a very slight action of her chest signalling breathing.
[06:35] * Sailor_Moon leans down, giving the miko a kiss on her cheek before looking up at her two conscious friends. "How are you guys... oh my god, Ami!" she says quickly, scrambling to her feet to go inspect Ami's back.
[06:36] <Ebiris> Good thing you do, since Ami promptly faints, swooning forward onto Usagi.
[06:36] * Sailor_Moon catches the unconscious genius, laying her out carefully on her stomach. She desperately pulls at her reserves - she's got to do SOMETHING to help the blue-haired senshi before she bleeds to death.
[06:37] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2 for Rejuv EP or Hatbot Death
[06:37] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 for Rejuv EP or Hatbot Death and gets 12."
[06:37] <Sailor_Moon> OOC: Skip the roll. >_>
[06:38] * Sailor_Moon places her gloved hands on Ami's back, murmuring quietly as she seals over the vicious wound from Minako's whip.
[06:38] <Ebiris> The wound closes slightly, now just oozing blood rather than a constant flow.
[06:39] <Sailor_Moon> "Mako-chan, can you go get Rei's first aid kit? We've got to get them patched up and into bed!" Usagi asks, looking up at the brunette.
[06:39] <Ebiris> As you work your healing Ami reverts back to her civilian form.
[06:43] * Sailor_Jupiter nods as she heads to look for the kit
[06:44] * Sailor_Moon is now known as Halbarad

[Ebiris]

The Irresistible Usagi omake!

[15:01] <Ebiris> After a thoroughly normal (read: difficult and stressful) day at school, Usagi feels taken with the urge to take advantage of Mugen's botanical gardens to soothe her spirit. Wandering around and smelling the various flowers is a pleasant way to unwind... As Usagi does this, she spots Tellu going into a nearby Greenhouse, one reserved exclusively for the head of the Botany club.
[15:02] * Usagi-chan is a bit curious what Tellu is up to, so she follows the green-haired girl over to the greenhouse, poking her head inside a minute or two after Tellu enters. "Tellu?" she calls out.
[15:04] * C-Rat is now known as C-Rat-Sleep
[15:04] <Ebiris> Tellu looks up and smiles. "Hello, Usagi. Come in and close the door behind you, please," she calls, waving you over before turning her attention to the row of exotic looking orchids she has arrayed on the table before her.
[15:05] * Usagi-chan does so, going over to examine the arrangement of beautiful flowers. "Those really look amazing!" Usagi says, a broad smile on her face.
[15:07] <Ebiris> "They are, aren't they?" Viluy beams. "These orchids are all extremely rare strains from all over the world - I'm trying to develop a hybrid that can thrive in all sorts of environments. And a few other things, too..."
[15:07] <Ebiris> Tellu*
[15:08] <Usagi-chan> "Other things? What kind of other things?" Usagi asks, curious.
[15:11] <Ebiris> "Well, the hybrid strain is my priority, but having them all here lets me investigate other things related to cross pollination and the like." The green-haired girl leans forward and takes a deep sniff, smiling widely. "They produce aromas to attract insects to carry their pollen, but it smells nice to humans as well. I've been trying to synthesise a perfume based on their extracts."
[15:12] * Usagi-chan leans over and takes a sniff as well. "That sounds like it could be really cool," Usagi says. "Is it hard to do?"
[15:14] <Ebiris> Tellu winces and produces a clear, stoppered vial from her pocket. "See for yourself," she says, handing it over.
[15:17] * Usagi-chan takes the vial from Tellu, opening the stopper just enough to get a whiff of the substance inside.
[15:19] <Ebiris> Ugh. It's acrid and tangy, like a fruit salad left in the sun too long. Almost enough to make your eyes water. "That's synthesis number four," Tellu sighs. "Numbers one to three weren't any better, and I'm running out of the natural extract to base it on."
[15:20] * Usagi-chan winces at the pungent aroma, quickly closing the stopper on the vial. "How hard is it to get the extract?"
[15:22] <Ebiris> "It's not too hard," Tellu waves at her assembled flowers, "But there's only so much I can gather before the flowers have to replenish themselves, which takes some time." Turning over to the nearby shelves, she picks up a slightly larger vial, this one about half filled with a pale pink fluid. "This is all I have left for at least a month..." she sighs mournfully.
[15:25] <Usagi-chan> "How do you make perfume out of it? Or try to, anyway." Usagi asks.
[15:27] <Ebiris> "Simple chemistry," she shrugs, "Find compounds similar to the base of this one that are more readily available, and mix them to get the desired result. Which escapes me so far." Unstoppering the vial, "When it's done it should smell as close to this as possible." She starts towards you, holding it up for you to smell, when her foot catches on the edge of the table, sending her stumbling towards you! (body check)
[15:27] * Ebiris sets mode: +v Hatbot
[15:27] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[15:27] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[15:29] <Ebiris> "Ack!" Tellu flails, falling right on Usagi, but being held up easily by the blonde rabbit. With a deep breath on your chest, she composes herself, standing up properly. "Thanks, Usagi. I... gah!" she stares in horror at her now empty vial. You note that your chest now feels a bit wet and sticky through your uniform... Smells divine, though.
[15:31] <Usagi-chan> "Oh no!" Usagi says, looking down at the bright pink stain spreading across her shirt.
[15:32] <Ebiris> It's soaked right through your blouse and bra, making your chest feel rather sticky and uncomfortable. "No!" Tellu panics, promptly grabbing a handful of your blouse and squeezing it over the vial, producing one sad little droplet into the glass container.
[15:34] * Usagi-chan grimaces at the sticky sensation. "Sorry about your extract, Tellu.... will this stuff wash off okay?"
[15:35] <Ebiris> "Uh... probably?" she hazards, not really sounding sure.
[15:36] * Usagi-chan sighs. "At least it's only a school blouse," she says, not sounding particularly happy about it in any case. "I'd better get home and get this cleaned up."
[15:36] <Ebiris> "Sorry," Tellu replies, sounding distracted and peeved as she sets the nigh empty vial down on the table.
[15:38] <Usagi-chan> "Tell you what, I'll go get my PE shirt on and you can have this to get whatever you can out of it, okay?" Usagi says with an apologetic smile. "I'll be back in just a few minutes."
[15:40] <Ebiris> "Don't bother," Tellu shakes her head. "The sample will be tainted by the fibres in your clothes as well as sweat and pheremones produced by your body. It's no use to me, now." She sniffs, "At least you do smell nice, even if it is rather overpowering..."
[15:41] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Guess I'd better hit the showers then," she says with a sigh. "Anyway, I'll see you later, Tellu." With that, the blonde waves, heading out of the greenhouse and towards the girls' changing room.
[15:42] <Ebiris> You reach the showers without incident, your chest becoming less sticky as the fluid dries quickly, although it's almost uncomfortably warm.
[15:43] * Usagi-chan frowns at the sensation of heat, quickly stripping down and stepping into the shower to scrub herself down.
[15:44] <Ebiris> You clean yourself quickly, your chest feeling normal once you step out of the shower. The smell still lingers a bit, although dampened down considerably. It really is nice. Hopefully Tellu will figure out how to make a proper synthesis once she gets some new extracts.
[15:46] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly. 'At least I've got a nice perfume for the rest of the day,' she thinks to herself, getting dressed in her PE clothes. She bundles the stained garments up under her arm, carrying them out as she heads for home.
[15:48] <Ebiris> The rest of the day goes by without incident, and you wake up the next with barely enough time to get to school if you hurry. Tellu's perfume still lingers, although now barely perceptible to you. Just a very subtle change to your normal scent, really.
[15:50] * Usagi-chan grimaces at the time, flying through her morning preparations and grabbing a piece of toast on her way out the door. "SorryI'mrunninglateMomthanksforbreakfastbyeeeee!" she says as she speeds through the kitchen.
[15:50] * Prince_Herb is now known as Prince_Herb[bbiab]
[15:52] <Ebiris> Any reply from your family is lost as you dash out the door, hurrying to Mugen. You don't really notice much on the way, too focused on your running, but you enter the main lobby at the entrance of the school with a couple of minutes to spare, easily.
[15:53] * Usagi-chan pants with her hands on her knees, trying to catch her breath before jogging off to her English class.
[15:54] <Ebiris> As you catch your breath, you can't help but notice you're catching more than a few... interested, looks from your fellow students. One upperclassman boy even starts to approach you just as you start jogging to class...
[15:55] * Usagi-chan gives the boy a puzzled look, but simply hurries past him into her classroom, taking her seat just a few seconds before the class begins.
[15:57] <Ebiris> He opens his mouth to speak, but his words are lost as you rush off. Sitting down in English, you become uncomfortably aware that you seem to be the focus of attention for the entire class...
[15:57] * Usagi-chan blushes and hunkers down in her seat, wondering why everyone is staring at her. 'Is there something on my face?' she thinks.
[15:59] <Ebiris> It doesn't seem to be anything embarassing - their looks aren't mocking or puzzled. But there's fairly intense focus there, which only diminishes slightly as Miss Haruna enters, the students paying token attention to the teacher.
[15:59] * Usagi-chan turns towards Miss H herself - she can't remember the last time she was so happy to see the redheaded teacher, even if only as a distraction.
[16:01] <Ebiris> "Alright, class, we'll..." Miss H begins, trailing off slightly as her gaze is drawn to you. She shakes it off quickly, though. "Today we're studying English verbs..." and so she goes into her lesson, staring at you out the corner of her eye as she writes on the blackboard.
[16:02] * Usagi-chan slumps in her chair. 'Even Miss H? What the heck is going on?' Usagi thinks unhappily. She shakes her head, though, paying attention to the lesson - even if only as a distraction from the morning's latest 'problem'.
[16:03] <Ebiris> Before long, you are called upon. "Usagi-chan, read the third passage on page 54," miss H requests, smiling nicely at you.
[16:04] * Usagi-chan nods, doing as requested - at least THIS isn't anything unusual, she IS Miss H's 'favorite' student after all.
[16:06] <Ebiris> Being called upon isn't unusual. Having miss H sigh dreamily as you begin speaking is. You notice most of the students in front of you have turned to look, eyeing you up almost hungrily. "Very good, Usagi-chan," Haruna beams as you finish, "But you made a mistake - it's 'an' not 'a' when the first letter of the next word is a vowel. See me after class and we'll... discuss it." She smirks as she finishes.
[16:07] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Yes, Miss H," the blonde replies - why is everyone acting so WEIRD today?
[16:09] <Ebiris> The lesson proceeds... oddly, from there. You get called upon twice as much, and as soon as the lesson ends, most of the students flock straight for you before Haruna loudly smacks a desk with a ruler. "Class dismissed! Usagi-chan stays, the rest of you get out!" she says, sounding almost fevered.
[16:11] <Usagi-chan> "Miss H, I really need to get to my next class," Usagi protests. "Can I come talk to you after school or something?"
[16:11] <Ebiris> "I'll write you a note," Miss H insists as the students reluctantly leave, shooting you longing looks. Once the last one exits, Haruna walks over to the door with something of a sway in her hips, and locks it.
[16:13] * Usagi-chan eyes Miss H nervously. "Um.... why are you locking the door, Miss H?" she says, sweating a bit.
[16:14] * Prince_Herb[bbiab] is now known as Prince_Herb
[16:14] <Ebiris> "So we don't get disturbed, Usagi-chan," she replies, a gleam in her eye as she approaches your desk. "I think you could really benefit from some... one on one, tuition." Sitting on your desk side on from you, you can see quite a bit of thigh as her skirt rides up. "As your loving teacher, I want what's best for you, Usagi-chan."
[16:15] * Usagi-chan gets up from her desk in a hurry, backing away towards the door. "Um... you're really weirding me out here, Miss H..." Usagi stammers.
[16:16] <Ebiris> Haruna glomps you before you get two steps. "Don't be shy, Usagi-chan. I can teach you a lot more than English," she insists passionately.
[16:17] <Usagi-chan> "Gack!" Usagi says, pushing out of the teacher's grasp. "What is WRONG with you?" she says, fumbling for the lock on the door.
[16:20] <Ebiris> The door bursts open before you reach it, a boy who just vacated the class standing there angrily. "I won't allow it!" he thunders. "Tsukino-san deserves the love of a real man, not some washed up old woman who's so hard up she has to seduce students. Even ones as amazingly beautiful as Tsukino-san!"
[16:20] <Ebiris> "She's mine!" Haruna yells, clinging onto you. "We've known each other longest! We have a bond that can't be broken!" To punctuate her statements she rubs her body against Usagi in a rather distracting manner.
[16:20] * Ana-nap is now known as Anastasia
[16:20] * Usagi-chan blushes like a stoplight. "Just leave me alone!" she yells, wriggling away from the pair and making a mad dash for freedom.
[16:22] <Ebiris> Sprinting away from the lovestruck pair and ignoring their desperate pleas, you escape into the corridors of Mugen, currently empty as everyone else is in class.
[16:23] * Usagi-chan leans against a wall, catching her breath. "Why is everyone acting like I'm completely irresistible today?" she complains. Not that she'd be complaining if it was a certain dark-haired miko that was acting that way, but getting it from other people is just WEIRD.
[16:23] <Ebiris> "Usagi-chan!" Haruna's voice calls desperately. Getting closer...
[16:24] * Usagi-chan takes off for the nearest security door - she can at least be sure she can't be followed into the locked-down sections of the school.
[16:25] <Ebiris> Indeed you're safe down here... the darkened corridors are utterly abandoned, and precious few people know the access codes to even get into them. Hopefully Haruna is not among those few.
[16:27] * Usagi-chan decides to head down to the Witches' office - it should be abandoned at this hour, and if everyone is going to be acting like this around her all day, classes are out of the question.
[16:27] <Ebiris> The office is indeed deserted.
[16:28] * Usagi-chan flops down at her desk. 'What is going ON this morning?' she thinks.
[16:28] <Ebiris> Miss Haruna just tried to seduce you is what's going on. And from the looks you were getting, most of the student body would like to do the same.
[16:30] * Usagi-chan grimaces at the thought of Miss H doing... THAT, especially with her. 'Am I going to have to hide in here all day?' she thinks unhappily. 'I can't go out again if the same thing's going to happen for the rest of the day!'
[16:33] <Ebiris> Nearly an hour is spent brooding in the office before the door opens to admit Viluy. "Hi, Usagi," she waves, going straight to her desk and starting up her computer. "Don't you usually have a class this period?"
[16:33] <Usagi-chan> "Hey, Viluy," Usagi says unhappily. "Yeah, but everyone was acting completely bizarre in first period and I needed to get away for a while. I figured no one would be around down here."
[16:34] <Ebiris> She nods distantly, tapping a few keys. "How do you mean bizarre?"
[16:35] <Usagi-chan> "Coming on to me," Usagi says with a frown. "Even Miss H acted like she was trying to seduce me or something - it really weirded me out!"
[16:35] <Ebiris> She turns to stare at you full on. "A TEACHER came onto you?" she asks incredulously.
[16:36] * Usagi-chan nods. "I'm serious - she locked me in the room, and then when I managed to get out she was chasing me through the halls - it was really strange."
[16:37] <Ebiris> "My God..." she breathes, before looking at you contempatively. "I... I guess I can sort of understand that, though..." she admits, a fine blush spreading over her cheeks.
[16:38] * Usagi-chan covers her face with one hand. "Don't tell me you're feeling like that TOO!"
[16:39] <Ebiris> Viluy stands up and glides gracefully across the room towards you. "Usagi..." she begins, her voice soft, "You're a beautiful girl. Is it really so surprising?"
[16:41] * Usagi-chan stands up, backing away from Viluy. "Please, Viluy, not you too!"
[16:42] <Ebiris> She shakes her head, "I must have been blind before, but no longer!" she exclaims, dahsing forward and glomping you, "Take me, Usagi. I'm yours," she whispers urgently into your ear, pressing her abundant talents against your body in a REALLY distracting manner.
[16:44] * Usagi-chan pushes Viluy away gently. "What IS it with everyone today?" she says, moving to keep quite a bit of space between her and the newest senshi.
[16:45] <Ebiris> Gentle doesn't work, Viluy's grip like iron. "Who cares about everyone else?" she asks breathlessly, her hands starting to roam in places they shouldn't. "Let's make sweet music together!"
[16:46] * Usagi-chan goes for NOT-so-gentle then, shoving the other girl roughtly. "Just STOP it, Viluy!"
[16:46] <Ebiris> (body check)
[16:46] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6 burning 20 EP
[16:46] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 burning 20 EP and gets 7."
[16:47] <Ebiris> You manage to shove Viluy off, the girl staggering back a few steps and giving you a hurt look. "Usagi, please..." she begins, her lip trembling, "Don't fight this. We could be so wonderful together."
[16:49] <Usagi-chan> "I'm not going to do this, Viluy!" Usagi says, wasting no time in vacating the Witches' office. And trying to get herself lost in the maze of hallways beneath Mugen.
[16:49] <Ebiris> "Usagi!" Viluy yells, dashing after you. (body check)
[16:49] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:49] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[16:49] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6 burning 20 EP
[16:49] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 burning 20 EP and gets 5."
[16:50] <Ebiris> With a burst of desperate energy, Usagi sprints away while Viluy stumbles just outside the office, the speedy rabbit easily eluding pursuit.
[16:51] <Usagi-chan> 'What is HAPPENING to everyone?' Usagi thinks in confusion. 'Why are they all acting so bizarre?'
[16:52] <Ebiris> No answers present themselves as you wander through the labyrinthine passages, not quite sure exactly where you are, now.
[16:52] * Usagi-chan explores blindly, at least certain that if she gets herself TOO lost she can teleport back to the office, or back home.
[16:54] <Ebiris> You wander for a bit, feeling utterly lost until eventually coming across the underground garage, Eudial's car parked by itself there.
[16:55] <Usagi-chan> "Well, at least I know where I am now," Usagi says with a sigh, checking her watch - she's starting to get a bit hungry.
[16:56] <Ebiris> Lunch starts in half an hour. Of course, as one of the Professor's special assistants, you're not really confined to the regular timetable.
[16:56] * Usagi-chan decides that heading to lunch early wouldn't be such a bad idea. If EVERYONE is going to be acting like this around her, the last thing she wants to do is try to sit down and eat in a cafeteria containing half the school.
[16:58] <Ebiris> Heading upstairs, classes are now in session, so you reach the lunchroom unmolested - that being a rather more literal figure of speech given the day you've had. Most of the proper food is still being cooked, but there are snacks and drinks readily available for you.
[16:59] * Usagi-chan grabs a sizeable number of the available selections, taking her tray over to an empty table and starting in on the food as rapidly as ever.
[17:00] <Ebiris> The cooking staff are all busy in the kitchen, and you basically have the cafeteria to yourself for now...
[17:01] * Usagi-chan sighs, a bit relieved that she can do something normal without things ending up in a shambles today.
[17:02] <Ebiris> Having finished her chemistry test a bit early today, Ami leaves her class well before everyone else, going for lunch before the rush starts. Entering the cafeteria, she spots Usagi eating by herself.
[17:02] * Usagi-chan doesn't notice the blue-haired genius come in, as intent on eating as ever.
[17:04] * Ami-chan smiles at the sight of Usagi engaging in her favorite hobby, and moves over to the odangoed blonde, her bento in hand. It's nice to be able to eat with someone else, instead of in a computer room, for a change. "Morning, Usagi...you're here early."
[17:05] <Ebiris> Ami: Looking at Usagi, you can't help but note that she seems... prettier than usual, today. She's always easy on the eyes, but she holds your interest with unusual intensity right now, almost captivating...
[17:06] * Usagi-chan glances up at Ami, startled. "Ami-chan!" she says, placing a hand to her chest. She gives the other girl a suspicious look for a moment, looking for any signs of seductive behavior from the other girl. Finding none, she relaxes a bit. "Sorry, you startled me - it's been a really crazy morning."
[17:07] <Ami-chan> "Crazy?" Ami asks, sitting down with her lunch. "What happened?" she asks, concerned of Usagi's jittery state.
[17:07] * Haruka has joined #evildunes
[17:08] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Everyone's been hitting on me today for some reason," Usagi says with a frown. "Even Miss H was trying to seduce me in first period - really freaked me out." She shakes her head a bit at that.
[17:08] * Ami-chan blinks, startled. "Seduce??"
[17:08] <Ebiris> Ami: Spending longer with Usagi, you start to feel a warm itch... down there. Just being with the blonde is making you feel very good. But you know what could make it better. For both of you.
[17:09] * Usagi-chan nods glumly. "Viluy did it too, down in the office - I had to run off to get her to leave me alone," she complains. "You're not going to do anything like that, are you?" she says, giving Ami a worried look.
[17:11] <Ami-chan> Ami blink-blinks, put on the spot by the question. "I don't think so...Do you have any idea what's causing it?"
[17:12] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I have no idea... it's just been happening since I got to school this morning. I don't know if it's something wrong with me or the other people I've run into." She pushes her now-empty tray away, resting her head on the table.
[17:17] * Ami-chan presses her legs together, flushing as she stares at Usagi, trying to summon the wherwithal to respond, but her mind keeps taking...interesting turns. She reaches out, stroking Usagi's hair gently, her voice dropping lower into a strange...husky timbre. "Poor Usagi-chan...Shall I help you feel better?"
[17:19] * Usagi-chan flinches visibly at that, raising her head off the table to look at Ami. "Not you too..." she says, scooting away from the blue-haired genius.
[17:24] <Ami-chan> "Why not?" Ami purrs, leaning forward. "There's something about you, Usagi-chan...that makes my knees weak..." she smiles a lazy, heavy lidded smile, and climbs up onto the table between them on all fours.
[17:24] * Usagi-chan practically leaps up from the table, making a run for the cafeteria doors. 'This can NOT be happening,' she thinks frantically.
[17:27] <Ami-chan> "Usagi-chan! Wait!" Ami cries, bolting after her. "I can make it worth it!"
[17:28] <Ebiris> OOC: body checks, lovebirds
[17:28] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6 burning 20 EP
[17:28] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 burning 20 EP and gets 5."
[17:29] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6 burning 30 EP
[17:29] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6 burning 30 EP and gets 9."
[17:29] <Ebiris> Usagi gains ground, sprinting away with tremendous energy, but Ami hurries as best she can, just keeping the rabbit in sight...
[17:34] * Ami-chan runs after Usagi, almost shivering in anticipation. "Usagi-chan...don't fight it! I love you!"
[17:35] <Usagi-chan> "Don't, Ami-chan, please!" Usagi says, running as hard as she can.
[17:35] <Ebiris> OOC: body checks again
[17:35] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6 burning 20 EP (again)
[17:35] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 burning 20 EP (again) and gets 8."
[17:35] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6 burning 20 EP
[17:35] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6 burning 20 EP and gets 6."
[17:37] <Ebiris> While Usagi stumbles as she rounds a corner, Ami puts her all into a desperate spring, getting close enough to grab Usagi...
[17:37] <Ebiris> sprint*
[17:39] * Ami-chan glomp-tackles Usagi, giggling and rolling them to take some shock out out the falling to the ground, then rolling them again until she's on top, straddling the blonde girl, a kittenish grin on her face as she nuzzles Usagi's cheek. "Gotcha." She whispers in Usagi's ear.
[17:40] * Prince_Herb is now known as Sailor_Dragon
[17:42] * Usagi-chan struggles to break Ami's grip. "Ami, don't do this! I don't love you like that!"
[17:42] <Ebiris> body check, Usagi
[17:43] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6 burning 20 EP (last time)
[17:43] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 burning 20 EP (last time) and gets 7."
[17:44] <Ebiris> Usagi barely manages to squirm out of Ami's grip, rising up as she backs away from the lovestruck senshi.
[17:44] <Ami-chan> "Don't be like that, Usagi-chan..." Ami pouts, rising as well. "I can make you feel good...As good as you make me feel..." she purrs, promise in her voice.
[17:45] * Usagi-chan holds her hands out towards Ami, trying to block her from getting any closer. "Ami-chan, I don't think about you that way! Please, just stop this!"
[17:46] <Ami-chan> "I can't..." Ami replies, not untruthfully, but not looking displeased, either, advancing on Usagi, step by step. "There's....something about you I just...can't resist..." she murmurs, licking her lips.
[17:47] * Usagi-chan backs away as Ami approaches, shaking her head. "Ami-chan..." she pleads. "I don't know what's making everyone act like this, but you've got to snap out of it!"
[17:49] <Ami-chan> "Snap out of it?" Ami asks, puzzled, but her advance is relentless. "Why? It feels goooood."
[17:50] <Usagi-chan> "You don't normally act like this!" Usagi protests, turning the corner of the hallway as she continues to back away. "It's got to be something making you - and everyone else - do this!"
[17:54] <Ami-chan> Ami nods, smiling gently. "I don't normally feel so good, either..." she adds, letting out a languid moan. "I really can't see the problem..."
[17:55] * Usagi-chan grimaces at the sound - the only time she's ever heard a moan like that before was from Rei. Seeing Ami do it is... unnerving, to say the least. "You're my FRIEND, not my lover!" Usagi protests. "I can't do... THAT with you!"
[17:57] * Ami-chan pouts. "Awww....give me chance, Usagi-chan...I can change your mind..." she giggles, tracking the blonde with every movement.
[17:58] * Usagi-chan shakes her head, her eyes never leaving the genius. "This isn't right, Ami-chan - please, just stop!"
[18:00] <Ami-chan> Ami smiles slowly again, shaking her head. "I really can't, Usagi-chan...and even if I could, I wouldn't want to...you're tantalizing, beautiful..."
[18:01] <Ebiris> As you try to talk rationally, a buzzer sounds, and a moment later all the doors in this hallway open, students pouring out for lunch.
[18:02] * Usagi-chan 's eyes widen at the sudden flood of students pouring into the hallway. 'Oh shit...'
[18:02] <Ebiris> Indeed, those who come close to you slow their step, pausing to eye you up, regardless of whether they are girls or boys...
[18:03] * Usagi-chan doesn't even pause for an instant, simply taking off in a sprint for the nearest security door.
[18:04] * Ami-chan doesn't waste time, and takes off after her at a dead run, this time.
[18:04] <Ebiris> A few give half-hearted pursuit - it doesn't seem to have really sunk into anyone else enough for much more than that, yet. Only Ami keeps up with the much desired and elusive rabbit.
[18:04] <Ebiris> Usagi reaches a security door on the next floor down, with Ami bare seconds behind...
[18:05] * Usagi-chan finally arrives at a keycard door, hurriedly grabbing the magnetic card from her subspace pocket and swiping it through the lock before bolting through - she knows Ami can get in as well, but it'll at least keep anyone else from following her.
[18:05] <Ebiris> The door is still wide open with Usagi just a few metres away as Ami reaches it.
[18:06] * Ami-chan dives through the door, grinning at Usagi's strategy. "Now we can be alone..." she giggles, racing after the blonde. "My, she's in good shape...She has one, too..."
[18:07] <Ebiris> OOC: Body checks
[18:07] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[18:07] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[18:08] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6 burning 10 EP
[18:08] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6 burning 10 EP and gets 8."
[18:08] <Ebiris> The pair of you stumble along, the gap neither closing nor widening as Usagi leads Ami blindly through the darkened corridors.
[18:09] * Usagi-chan begins to stammer out the words of her teleportation spell as she runs - she can't keep this up indefinitely.
[18:09] * C-Rat-Sleep has quit IRC (Connection reset by peer)
[18:09] <Ami-chan> "Usagi-chan, where are you going?" Ami half teases, half pleads. "Let me be one with you..."
[18:09] <Ebiris> OOC: mind check, Usagi
[18:09] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6 burning 10 EP
[18:09] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 burning 10 EP and gets 7."
[18:10] <Ebiris> The magic starts to rise as Usagi chants and dashes along, but somehow doesn't form the correct pattern, dissipating uselessly instead.
[18:11] <Ebiris> OOC: body checks once more
[18:12] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[18:12] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[18:12] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6
[18:12] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[18:12] <Ebiris> While Ami's pace slows a bit from the mad dash, Usagi trips, falling flat on her face and giving the blue-haired girl ample time to catch up.
[18:14] * Ami-chan giggles again, leaping atop the blonde girl, and straddling her waist. "We have to stop meeting like this..." she purrs, touching her nose to Usagi's.
[18:16] <Ami-chan> *she purrs, kissing the back of Usagi's head, before rolling the blonge girl over. "Are you hurt? We could play doctor..."
[18:17] * Usagi-chan grabs Ami's shoulders, pushing the other girl's face up and away from her. "STOP this, Ami! I don't want to do this!"
[18:18] <Ebiris> You both hear footsteps approaching as you attempt to deal with each other...
[18:18] <Usagi-chan> "Someone, help me, please!" Usagi calls out - anything would be a help at a time like this.
[18:19] * Ami-chan looks hurt. "Why not?" she asked plaintively, uninterested in the new arrival just yet.
[18:19] <Ebiris> The pace of the footsteps quickens, Viluy dashing onto the scene. "Usagi... Ami?!" she looks rather shocked and surprised at seeing you two laid out like this.
[18:20] * Usagi-chan grimaces at the sight of Viluy. 'Not TWO of them...' she thinks. 'Rei-chan, where ARE you?' she thinks frantically. 'I REALLY need some help here!'
[18:21] <Ebiris> 'Huh?' Rei's mental voice comes through. 'I'm having lunch. What's going on?' she asks worriedly.
[18:21] <Ebiris> Meanwhile, Viluy goes over to grab Ami. "Ami, stop it! You're not yourself - there's something about Usagi!"
[18:21] <Usagi-chan> "That's what I've been TRYING to say!" Usagi shouts, wriggling to try to get out from underneath the blue-haired girl.
[18:22] <Ebiris> OOC: Body check, Usagi
[18:22] <Usagi-chan> 'Ami's been chasing me all over the school - along with half my English class AND Miss H!' Usagi sends back, still trying to escape from Ami.
[18:22] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[18:22] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[18:22] <Ebiris> 'Chasing you? Are they possessed?' Rei asks as Usagi squirms free.
[18:22] * Ami-chan looks up at Viluy irritably. "You want her for yourself, don't you."
[18:23] <Ebiris> "What?" Viluy looks offended. "No! I..." she falters a bit, glancing at Usagi as her blush returns. "Okay I do. And you can't have her!" she snaps, pushing Ami against the wall.
[18:23] <Usagi-chan> 'I have no idea! But it's like everyone in the school today's been trying to jump me or seduce me!' Usagi thinks back, scrambling away until she's quite a ways from Ami and Viluy.
[18:23] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[18:24] <Ebiris> Viluy stumbles and fails to do more than mash Ami's breasts, recoiling quickly. "I only want to touch my dear Usagi like that!" she says, giving Ami a withering look.
[18:24] <Ebiris> Rei doesn't reply right away. Taking some time to process that...
[18:24] * Ami-chan sniffs. "It wasn't much fun for me, either."
[18:25] * Usagi-chan doesn't even pause, taking the momentary distraction to bolt yet again, headed for the office. 'I just managed to get away from Viluy and Ami - I'm headed down to the office, all right?' she thinks to the miko.
[18:26] <Ebiris> 'I'm... on my way?' Rei sounds rather shell shocked as she replies, while Viluy doesn't even notice Usagi's departure, busily glaring at Ami.
[18:27] * Ami-chan glares back at Viluy, narrowing her eyes, and missing Usagi's depature as well.
[18:29] <Ebiris> Escaping her new admirers, Usagi quickly makes her way to the office, Cyprine and Ptliol looking up to see the rabbit's frazzled state. "Usagi?" Cyprine begins, "You look rather stressed. Something wrong?" Ptliol finishes.
[18:30] * Usagi-chan eeps. "Just.... don't follow me, stay here, all right?" Usagi says, backing out of the office quickly before... whatever it is has a chance to affect the pair. She slams the door behind her, leaning on it heavily.
[18:32] * Makoto has joined #evildunes
[18:32] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Makoto
[18:33] <Ebiris> The pair blink at that, but any reply is lost as the door closes behind you. A moment later, Tellu comes into view. You can't help but note that you're now trapped between three girls... "Usagi?" the green-haired girl cocks her head. "Something wrong?"
[18:33] * Usagi-chan cringes. "Just... get out of here, Tellu! I'm doing something to everyone today, and I don't want it to get to you too!"
[18:37] <Ebiris> Tellu looks worried, stepping closer. "Are you sick, Usagi?"
[18:37] * Usagi-chan shoves Tellu to the side roughly, taking off at a run down the hall. "I don't know, just stay away from me!" she says, disappearing down the hallway.
[18:38] <Ebiris> As Usagi tries to lose herself in the corridors of Mugen, Ami and Viluy both recover from... whatever it was that affected them.
[18:39] * Ami-chan immediately reaches for Usagi on regaining her wits. 'Usagi-chan?'
[18:39] * Usagi-chan pauses to catch her breath, leaning against the wall heavily. 'Ami-chan...?' she sends back, her tone very worried.
[18:40] <Ami-chan> 'I'm better now.' Ami Assures Usagi, embarrassedly. 'Still, for the moment, you'll understand if I stay away.'
[18:41] <Usagi-chan> 'I'd rather you did too,' Usagi sends back morosely. 'It's... I just don't like you THAT way, Ami-chan.'
[18:42] <Ami-chan> There's a bit of silence, before Ami responds with a slight smile. 'I understand. How are you faring?'
[18:43] <Ebiris> As you talk to Ami, Rei's mental voice intrudes 'Usagi? I'm at the office. Tellu says you just ran off.'
[18:44] <Usagi-chan> 'Scared, exhausted, confused... do I need to go on?' the blonde says, sinking to the floor of the hallway. Turning her thoughts to Rei, she sends a reply to the miko. 'I did, or else she would have been trying to hit on me too,' Usagi sends back, sounding rather tired and depressed.
[18:44] <Ami-chan> 'No.' Ami replies softly. 'Do you know what's causing this?'
[18:44] <Ebiris> 'Tellu?' Rei sounds rather incredulous. 'Just what is going on, Usagi?'
[18:45] <Usagi-chan> 'I haven't got the faintest idea, Ami-chan,' Usagi sends back. 'It's just been happening ever since I got to school this morning.'
[18:45] <Usagi-chan> 'I wish I knew, Rei-chan,' Usagi replies to the miko, resting her chin on her knees. 'It's really starting to freak me out.'
[18:46] <Ebiris> 'I'm on my way,' Rei sends. 'Don't worry. We'll figure something out.'
[18:46] <Usagi-chan> 'Are you sure you want to?' Usagi sends back worriedly. 'Whatever it is, it might start affecting you too.'
[18:46] <Ami-chan> 'We'll see what we can figure out...from a distance.' Ami promises.
[18:47] <Ebiris> You can hear a mental snort. 'Usagi, considering our relationship, me hitting on you isn't going to change anything.'
[18:47] <Usagi-chan> 'No, but if it DOES happen you won't be able to think about anything else,' Usagi replies. 'I'm not worried about THAT so much as I am you not being able to think straight.'
[18:48] <Ebiris> 'Give me some credit, Usagi,' Rei replies with some irritation as she comes into view at the end of the corridor, turning and spotting you.
[18:48] * Usagi-chan looks up at Rei, not moving as she sees the miko come into sight.
[18:49] <Ebiris> "So..." Rei begins as she draws near. "Miss H, Viluy, and Ami hit on you, huh?" she repeats your earlier message, really not sure what to make of it.
[18:50] <Usagi-chan> "And a boy in the hall before I got to class, and another boy that was in my English class," Usagi adds, still huddled down next to the wall. "I've been trying to stay away from people as much as I can."
[18:52] <Ebiris> Rei smirks, kneeling down next to you. "Guess I'm lucky to have the most popular girl in school, then..." she comments, finding the silver lining.
[18:52] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly at that. "Not exactly the way I'd want it to happen, though," she says, turning her head to look at Rei.
[18:55] <Ebiris> "Well I won't let anyone else have you," Rei breathes softly, giving you a hungry look as her hand runs up your leg.
[18:56] * Usagi-chan shudders a bit at the sudden contact, wondering if the weirdness of the day is starting to take its effect on Rei. "Rei-chan...." she says softly. "I don't want to be with anyone else but you either... but I'd really like to figure out what's going on, first."
[18:57] <Ebiris> "We can figure that out later," Rei replies, shifting closer. "I think this'll help us both to relax..."
[18:58] * Usagi-chan places a restraining hand on Rei's chest. "Rei-chan, it's me making you think like this," she protests, although she's not fighting the miko all that much - she COULD use the relaxation, certainly. "You don't have to do this."
[19:00] <Ebiris> "Of course it's you, Usagi. Who else would it be?" Rei asks, smiling as she puts a hand over your own on her chest.
[19:01] <Usagi-chan> "No, I mean... you wouldn't be wanting this so much if whatever's wrong with me wasn't there," Usagi says, stumbling over the words.
[19:02] <Ebiris> Pushing forward, Rei kisses you passionately. Parting after a few pleasurable moments, she grins lustily. "Don't be so sure, Usagi. You're always good at getting a reaction from me."
[19:03] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes as Rei kisses her. "Rei-chan," she says breathily, some of her fear and tension melting away in the face of the miko's passion.
[19:04] <Ebiris> Sensing your weakened resolve, Rei moves in with even more fervour, her hands roaming in places... well, places they've roamed plenty of times before.
[19:05] * Usagi-chan finally just surrenders to the moment, letting Rei take control of things...
[19:06] <Ebiris> Some time later, you and Rei are both nearly naked in the darkened corridor, driving each other closer and closer, until... "What the fuck?!" Eudial's alarmed and honestly freaked out voice intrudes from down the other end of the corridor.
[19:07] * Usagi-chan barely manages to snap out of things enough to look in the direction of Eudial's voice. 'Oh crap...' she thinks.
[19:08] <Ebiris> Rei doesn't even notice, far too involved in what she's doing. Meanwhile, Eudial just stares, rooted to the spot and white as a sheet.
[19:09] * Usagi-chan finds it rather hard to focus with Rei doing... that. "Just.... go...." she manages to call out to Eudial, barely able to manage even that much.
[19:11] <Ebiris> Eudial blinks, shaking her head as a cloud passes over her expression. Breathing slightly raggedly, she instead approaches, grabbing Rei from off of you. "She's mine, Rei!" the Witch snaps.
[19:13] * Usagi-chan winces at that, painfully aware of just how vulnerable she is right now. "Eudial, no..." she says quietly, scooting away from the redhead.
[19:13] <Ebiris> Some awareness comes over Rei, and she immediately looks rather displeased with her sempai. "Back off, Eudial!" she snaps back, shoving the older girl away roughly and completely ignoring her near-naked state.
[19:14] <Usagi-chan> "Please, don't fight!" Usagi says, backing away from the two along the wall as she tries to at least cover herself.
[19:15] <Ebiris> "I'm not going to share you!" Eudial growls, coming straight at Rei!
[19:15] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[19:15] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[19:15] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[19:15] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[19:15] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[19:15] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[19:16] <Ebiris> Rei easily dodges the clumsy swipe, before kicking out at Eudial's stomach, forcing her back a few steps and making her double over. "This isn't anything to do with you, Eudial!" she yells, clearly enraged.
[19:17] <Usagi-chan> "Stop this!" Usagi shouts, still backing away - she knows she's the cause of this, somehow. Pausing only for a moment, she turns and runs, looking for an empty room or SOMEPLACE where she can get away from the two - from what happened to Ami and Viluy, their heads should clear after she's gone.
[19:18] <Ebiris> You hear the sound of flesh violently striking flesh as the two fight, receding in the distance as you flee. Good thing neither seems to have the presence of mind to bring magic into it... Dashing into the first door you see, you find it to be a storeroom of some sort, containing all sorts of weird technical apparatus.
[19:19] * Usagi-chan pauses to check for anyone nearby using her aura sense.
[19:19] <Ebiris> OOC: soul check, +2
[19:20] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+2
[19:20] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 12."
[19:21] <Ebiris> You can't sense anything clearly. The myriad strong auras of Mugen too hard to seperate. Plus, your mind is still kind of off kilter from what you were just doing, being denied after nearly finishing. You're also only wearing a half on bra, socks, and your panties around your left ankle, the rest of your clothes having been left behind with Rei.
[19:22] * Usagi-chan takes a moment to readjust the clothing she DOES have left, painfully aware that it won't do much to help matters - and probably will make things worse depending on who she runs into.
[19:23] <Ebiris> After a few minutes... 'Usagi...?' Rei's tremulous and very hesitant mental probe intrudes.
[19:24] <Usagi-chan> 'I'm here,' Usagi sends back, just as hesitantly. 'Are you okay now?'
[19:25] <Ebiris> 'Uh... pretty much. Eudial isn't, though. I'm taking her up to the nurses office...' the miko sends, sounding very ashamed.
[19:26] * Usagi-chan winces at that. 'I'm sorry, Rei-chan - it's all my fault,' Usagi sends back, rather depressed. 'I couldn't do anything to stop you from fighting her, all I could do was get out of there.'
[19:26] <Ebiris> 'Don't blame yourself, Usagi,' Rei sighs. 'I should have had better control of myself than that.'
[19:27] * Usagi-chan sighs. 'You COULDN'T control yourself, Rei-chan,' Usagi sends back. 'If nothing else, I've learned that much about whatever this problem is.'
[19:27] <Ebiris> 'Any idea WHAT it is?'
[19:29] <Usagi-chan> 'I have no idea, just that it affects people when I get close to them,' Usagi sends with a sigh. 'It seems to wear off when I'm not around though - Viluy and Ami both were fine after I left.'
[19:29] <Ebiris> 'Hopefully Eudial will be okay when she wakes up...' You can almost see Rei wincing.
[19:30] <Usagi-chan> 'How bad is she?' Usagi thinks, grimacing.
[19:31] <Ebiris> 'Roughed her up quite a bit... nothing permanent, though. Just a lot of bruises.' Rei sighs, 'She's going to feel like hell for a day or so.'
[19:32] <Usagi-chan>  'I'll heal her if we can figure out a way for me to be around other people without driving them crazy,' Usagi sends back. 'It's the least I can do.'
[19:33] <Ebiris> 'No clue at all what's causing this?'
[19:33] <Usagi-chan> '
[19:34] <Usagi-chan> 'Nothing, just that it seemed to start this morning and that it's only when I'm close to people,' Usagi frowns. 'I'm in one of the labs now, I'm just going to try to stay down here until you or Ami come up with something - I'm not even sure where to start looking.'
[19:34] <Ebiris> 'Well, is it magical?'
[19:35] <Usagi-chan> 'If it is, it's not something I'm doing on purpose,' Usagi says. 'I haven't really thought about doing anything with magic except when I tried to teleport away from Ami.'
[19:36] <Ebiris> 'We'll figure something out, I'm sure...' Rei sighs.
[19:37] * Usagi-chan nods, slumping down against the wall. 'I don't want this to go on forever, Rei-chan,' she sends. 'I love you, but I don't want you to be the only person I can ever spend time with.'
[19:38] <Ebiris> 'It won't,' Rei assures you hastily. 'We'll figure out what's causing this and find some way to get rid of it.'
[19:43] <Ebiris> Time passes, Rei and Ami occasionally giving you reassurance and asking questions. It isn't until around half an hour after school lets out when Tellu makes the connection between the 'perfume' and this - although it's only a hypothesis. Nonetheless, it's suggested that you use one of the chemical decontaminent showers outside Tomoe's lab to remove all traces of it.
[19:46] * Usagi-chan agrees, as long as someone takes the time to clear the hallways beforehand - she doesn't want to cause any more problems.
[19:46] <Ebiris> The only people in the sublevels of Mugen are all currently in the Witches office, so you make it to the showers without incident.
[19:47] * Usagi-chan takes off her few remaining clothes, stepping inside the shower and scrubbing herself down - paying particular attention to the spot on her chest where the extract spilled the day before.
[19:48] <Ebiris> Spending a good twenty minutes under the highly intense wash of water, you finally emerge, spotless. Although your skin is a bit raw from all the scrubbing.
[19:49] * Usagi-chan sighs, drying herself off with a nearby towel before putting her underwear back on. 'Okay, Rei-chan - I'm done. How do we want to check whether it worked or not?'
[19:51] <Ebiris> 'I guess I'll come on down?' Rei suggests. 'That way if it hasn't worked... well, no real harm done.'
[19:51] <Usagi-chan> 'That's probably the best,' Usagi agrees. 'I'm waiting right outside the showers right now.'
[19:53] <Ebiris> A few moments later, Rei appears, her school uniform still looking rather rumpled. She sniffs the air delicately as she approaches you...
[19:53] * Usagi-chan waits nervously, her hands held behind her back.
[19:54] <Ebiris> Rei relaxes a bit, drawing nearer. "I wouldn't mind finishing what we started earlier..." she admits, "But I won't be quite so insistent this time."
[19:55] * Usagi-chan rushes over to Rei, giving the other girl a hug. "I wouldn't either... but you could say no, right?"
[19:56] <Ebiris> "I don't know..." Rei replies teasingly. "You're irresistible to me, pheremones or no."
[19:56] <Usagi-chan> "YOU I want to be irresistible to," Usagi says, backing off a bit with a smile. "But only you."
[19:58] <Ebiris> "Yeah..." Rei blushes a bit. "Ami and Viluy have been... awkward, all day."
[19:58] * Usagi-chan blushes a bit at that herself. "I can just imagine," she says. "I know it wasn't either of their faults, but it was still really freaky."
[19:59] <Ebiris> "I can imagine. Kinda," Rei nods, having some experience with girls confessing their love out of the blue. "Oh - your clothes are still back in the hall where we, left them..." she adds, blushing.
[20:01] * Usagi-chan scratches the back of her head. "Um...yeah, I'm not really surprised - we weren't paying attention to much else, were we?" She blushes at that admission.
[20:01] <Ebiris> "No," Rei winces. "We could have at least used a supply closet or something. I kind of hope Eudial doesn't remember what she saw when she wakes up..."
[20:02] <Usagi-chan> "What was it like?" Usagi asks a bit timidly.
[20:03] <Ebiris> "It was great, same as always," Rei replies, before frowning, "I just wish we'd finished. I was... pretty rough on Eudial because of that."
[20:04] <Usagi-chan> "I wasn't talking about THAT," Usagi says, shaking her head a bit. "I meant what the phero-thingy was like." She looks a bit sad at the mention of Eudial, though.
[20:05] <Ebiris> "Oh," Rei blushes. "It was... well, pretty much like it usually is when we're... together. Only stronger - made it impossible to think of anything else at all."
[20:07] * Usagi-chan nods, blushing herself. "Did... you want to finish what we started earlier?" she asks shyly.
[20:08] <Ebiris> Rei perks up. "Sure. But not here." She tilts her head upwards slightly.
[20:09] * Usagi-chan nods in understanding. "Wasn't planning on doing it here," she says with a small smile, teleporting the pair to someplace considerably more private a few moments later.
[20:09] <Ebiris> --------

[Halbarad]

Yes, we're still doing omakes. Deal with it. >_>
--------------------------
[14:42] <Rei-chan> ---------
[14:48] <Rei-chan> An ordinary day for Usagi Tsukino. Spending some time at the Crown Arcade chatting to Motoki and enjoying ice cream and games with Chibi Usa is an enjoyable way to spend your afternoon. But, all things must end. Especially when dependant on Usagi's purse. Bidding farewell to the newlywed young man, the two rabbits leave the arcade, wondering what to do, now...
[14:50] * Usagi-chan takes Chibi Usa's hand as the pair leave their afternoon of fun and enjoyment, deciding to head to head back home to see how dinner's going - she's hoping for sukiyaki tonight, but Mom wouldn't say what dinner was supposed to be.
[14:51] <Rei-chan> Walking along, you feel an odd lurch in your stomach, accompanied by a startled gasp from Chibi Usa. Oddly, although you were holding each other's hands, hers seems to have slipped out of yours with no resistance at all.
[14:54] * Usagi-chan looks over at Chibi Usa quickly, a bit disoriented by the sudden unease in her stomach.
[14:56] <Rei-chan> "Mommy, you're..." Chibi Usa points at you, alarmed. Her lips continue to move, but you can't hear her voice. Can't hear any sound at all but the beating of your heart, sounding far too loud. And your hand - the one that was holding Chibi Usa's - it looks almost transparent. Along with the rest of you, you'd guess by the state of your arm.
[14:57] <Usagi-chan> "What's going on?" Usagi says, trying to grab hold of Chibi Usa's hand. "What's happening to me?!"
[15:00] <Rei-chan> Chibi Usa flinches as your hand passes right through her own. Your vision seems to cloud over for a far too long moment, but when it clears, you are solid again. The street looks the same, but... Chibi Usa is gone. For that matter, it looks a bit sunnier, too, especially considering how overcast it was before.
[15:01] <Usagi-chan> "Oh my god, where'd Chibi Usa go?!" Usagi says, near panic as she looks around wildly. "Chibi Usa!" she yells at the top of her voice.
[15:02] <Rei-chan> No sign of the young pink-haired girl as far as you can see. Nor any response to your call...
[15:04] * Usagi-chan takes a deep breath, trying to calm herself. 'Calm down, Usagi, you can't do anything for Chibi Usa if you panic,' she thinks to herself, desperately trying to get her composure as she stands in the street. Deciding that home would be the best place to start looking, she turns her steps in that direction first.
[15:07] <Rei-chan> It's a short walk to your house, and you make it there without incident. Looking at the two-storey home from the outside, you feel a peculiar sense of unease. Somehow... some part of you deep down seems to feel that this... isn't the home you left earlier.
[15:08] * Usagi-chan frowns as she comes to stand on the front step. Deciding to take a more cautious approach than usual, she knocks at the door rather loudly, rather than simply walk in as she normally would.
[15:09] <Rei-chan> Your knocking echoes throughout the house. A moment later, you hear footsteps - sounds like Ikkuko, you'd guess. Sure enough, the blue-haired woman opens the door, a greeting dying on her lips as she stares at you in pure, unbridled shock.
[15:10] * Usagi-chan blinks, rather taken aback at the expression on her mother's face. "Mom?"
[15:12] <Rei-chan> "U-" she barely manages to get out before choking back a sob, covering her mouth as tears begin to form in her eyes. Looking at her, you see she looks subtly different... a little bit, well... plumper. And her skin looks almost waxy, and her hair a bit more faded...
[15:13] <Usagi-chan> "Mom... what's wrong?" Usagi says, a bit worried - both by Ikkuko's reaction and her appearance. "Are you not feeling well?"
[15:16] <Rei-chan> "Usagi?" she gasps, her hand reaching up towards your face. "Is it really... you?" Finding real flesh underneath her fingertips erases the last of her restraint, Ikkuko promptly stepping forward to wrap you in a tight hug. "My baby's come home?" she asks, hopeful and disbelieving all at once.
[15:16] * Usagi-chan returns her mother's embrace a bit hesitantly - something seems very wrong about this situation. "I haven't been home?" she asks carefully.
[15:18] <Rei-chan> "You're... those girls said you'd died..." Ikkuko murmurs, still holding you tightly. "Oh, God. Where have you been, Usagi?"
[15:19] <Usagi-chan> "Died?!" Usagi splutters, taking her mother's shoulders as she separates herself from the other woman. "What do you mean I died?"
[15:20] <Rei-chan> "They said you were Sailor Moon and you died to protect everyone," Ikkuko replies tearfully. "Where have you BEEN, Usagi?" she asks again, a bit more demanding.
[15:22] * Usagi-chan looks about as floored as Ikkuko did a few minutes ago. "When did... but I... what's going on?" she finally manages. "What happened?" she says, beginning to consider her 'accident' earlier that day in a bit more detail.
[15:24] <Rei-chan> Ikkuko sniffles, still staring at you as if afraid you might vanish into thin air. "We never saw any body, but... you'd been gone for months, and..." she shrugs helplessly, not really wanting to say she'd given up, especially with you standing right in front of her.
[15:25] <Usagi-chan> "When did the others tell you?" Usagi asks, her mind finally arriving at a rather unpleasant guess about her experience of a few minutes ago.
[15:28] <Rei-chan> "The end of November," Ikkuko replies, drawing you inside and closing the door. "I... I didn't want to believe them, but they... changed into those Sailor Senshi, and said you were one of them..."
[15:31] * Usagi-chan nods, feeling her heart sink. "That... would make sense, in a way," she says slowly. "They were right about the senshi... and they were probably right about the other part of it too," Usagi replies, feeling her heart sink. "But I need to talk to Ami first."
[15:33] <Rei-chan> "But..." Ikkuko looks momentarily lost, before she smiles. It's... not a really reassuring smile to see on your mother, truth be told. "But you're here, now, Usagi-chan, right? You won't leave us again."
[15:34] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes, the expression on her face like she's just bitten into a very bitter fruit. "...if I'm right, I may have to," she says.
[15:35] <Rei-chan> "What?" Ikkuko says hollowly, before you feel her arms around you. "No, you can't! You can't just come back like this and then leave us!" she starts to cry.
[15:43] <Usagi-chan> "I'm sorry," Usagi replies brokenly, returning Ikkuko's embrace. "I wish I could do something for you, I really do. But I don't know what to tell you."
[15:44] <Rei-chan> "Tell me you'll stay!" Ikkuko begs desperately. "Please, Usagi-chan, the house has been so lonely without you. I miss my baby girl!"
[15:45] <Usagi-chan> "I can't promise you that," Usagi says, backing away from her mother a bit as the tears roll down her cheeks. "I'm sorry."
[15:46] <Rei-chan> "Why?" Ikkuko sobs. "How can you come back to me and not stay?"
[15:47] <Usagi-chan> "I'm... I don't think I'm your Usagi," the blonde says with a sigh. "If I'm right, I don't belong in this world at all, and I need to get back to my own home."
[15:48] <Rei-chan> "This is your home!" Ikkuko insists, pointing at the floor.
[15:49] <Usagi-chan> "It's not," Usagi says quietly. "I'm sorry, I can't stay here," the blonde says, turning for the door - she would never have come here if she'd known.
[15:50] <Rei-chan> "Usagi, wait!" Ikkuko calls desperately, coming after you.
[15:51] * Usagi-chan does not, opening the front door without a word. "I'm sure she's still watching over you," she says quietly as she steps out of the doorway.
[15:53] <Rei-chan> Ikkuko follows you out the door, tears streaming down her face. "Please, Usagi," she begs, "Shingo, your father, and I - we all miss you so much. Can't we be a family again?"
[15:54] <Usagi-chan> "I... I'm sorry!" Usagi says, breaking into a run - she hates to do this to the poor woman, but she can't build a false hope and then take it away, and she knows this can't be her home.
[15:55] <Rei-chan> Ikkuko calls out desperately, but she's in no condition to pursue a young magical girl. It doesn't take you long at all to leave her behind.
[15:56] * Usagi-chan dashes away the tears pouring down her face as she sprints through the streets of Juuban, automatically taking a long familiar path. It's not long at all before she finds herself before the long staircase leading to the Hikawa Shrine; she halts at their foot, wondering whether she should disturb the miko that lives within.
[15:57] <Usagi-chan> Finally making up her mind - she's got to have help to get home, regardless of anything else - she mounts the stairs, trying to firm her resolve as she goes to face yet another person who's probably convinced she's dead.
[15:58] <Rei-chan> Coming up the stairs, you find the Shrine quiet. It's late afternoon and most people would be having dinner, right now, resident miko included. But two pairs of eyes do note your arrival, a pair of black ravens fluttering down from the trees and cawing excitedly as they circle you.
[15:59] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit as she spots the ravens. "Hey, Phobos and Deimos. Is Rei here right now?" she asks, knowing that the pair are perfectly capable of understanding her.
[16:02] <Rei-chan> The pair continue making a ruckus, which precedes a familiar figure coming out from her bedroom. "Phobos, Deimos! What's all the noise about?" she calls, taking a few steps across the courtyard before stopping dead in her tracks. Dressed in her familiar miko robes, which seem to hang a bit too loosely off of her, the white-haired Rei Hino stares at you in shock. "U... sagi?" she gasps.
[16:03] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes, knowing this is going to be even harder than dealing with her mother in its own way. "Hello, Rei," she says quietly.
[16:06] <Rei-chan> "It's..." Rei slowly walks towards you, as if in a dream, while her two ravens quiet down. "It's... really you?" she asks softly, stopping a few feet away. This close, you can see her face looks a bit more angular than it should, her cheekbones far more obvious than usual. Doesn't look like she's been eating well at all.
[16:07] * Usagi-chan sighs, finding it hard to meet the miko's gaze. "Yes and no," she says slowly. "Yes, I'm Usagi... but I'm not the one who died. It's kind of hard to explain."
[16:10] <Rei-chan> "Not... but, how?" she looks at you with pale violet eyes, seemingly lost.
[16:11] <Usagi-chan> "I'll explain it in a bit - can you call the others over? I'd rather not tell the same story several times." Usagi keeps her head lowered, still not meeting Rei's gaze - inwardly horrified at the miko's condition.
[16:14] <Rei-chan> "I..." Rei looks at you like she's considering something, shifting on her feet slightly, before a miniscule sigh escapes her lips. "Okay..." she takes out her communicator. Wow, you haven't seen one of those in a while.
[16:16] * Usagi-chan waits in silence, wondering if everyone here is in similar shape to poor Rei - she really looks like she needs to take better care of herself, as did her mother.
[16:18] <Rei-chan> From the communicator, you hear Minako's long absent voice. "Rei-chan? Is something wrong?" she asks worriedly.
[16:18] <Rei-chan> Rei shakes her head. "Just..." she swallows, glancing briefly up at you, "Just come to the Shrine, Minako. And call Ami and Makoto as well, please."
[16:20] * Usagi-chan feels her breath catch for a moment at the sound of Minako's voice, but she manages not to react too much to it, simply letting Rei take care of what she needs to do.
[16:22] <Rei-chan> "Okay..." Minako sounds a little bit dubious. "We'll all be there as soon as we can, Rei-chan." Rei nods at that and pockets her communicator once more.
[16:22] <Rei-chan> "I..." the white-haired miko looks at you uncertainly. "Do you want to wait in my room?"
[16:22] <Usagi-chan> "That'll be fine," Usagi says, finally looking up at Rei with a small smile.
[16:24] <Rei-chan> Rei looks briefly conflicted for a moment, but essays a small smile back, leading you towards her bedroom, the door still open.
[16:25] * Usagi-chan follows Rei back into the shrine, at a complete loss for words - what do you say when you're talking to someone who thinks you've come back from the dead?
[16:29] <Rei-chan> Entering Rei's room, you find it neat as expected, but considerably more spartan than you recall. A few potted plants line her window, some schoolbooks on her desk, and a T*A girls uniform hung up outside her closet. No sign of any manga or CDs as far as you can see. "Do you want some tea?" Rei asks softly, "Or snacks?" she adds, her expression becoming slightly distant, thinking back to happier times.
[16:30] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "I'm not real hungry, but I wouldn't mind something to snack on, if it's not too much trouble."
[16:32] <Rei-chan> "Not hungry?" Rei's lips begin to twitch in an almost smile, but it vanishes in an instant, leaving the girl looking incredibly sad. "I'll be back in a moment," she mutters, swiftly turning away and heading for the door.
[16:33] * Usagi-chan winces, wilting as she sees the pain written on Rei's face. Did her death really hit everyone this hard? Or is there something else going on here?
[16:35] <Rei-chan> No answer comes from Rei, a flash of bone-white hair the last you see as she closes the door behind her.
[16:35] <Usagi-chan> With a slight sigh, Usagi takes a look around the room, looking for any sign of the miko's famed manga collection - she can't understand why she wouldn't have at least one or two volumes of it out to read.
[16:39] <Rei-chan> Inside Rei's closet, you find her clothes all neatly lined up on hangers as expected. And down at the bottom, where neat stacks of manga normally reside, you only find a single white shoebox. Well, white except for a few spots around the edges and corners where it appears to have been burnt.
[16:40] * Usagi-chan frowns, crouching down as she lifts the lid of the shoebox.
[16:43] <Rei-chan> Inside, you find what looks to be a photo album, a diary, and a notebook. All of them also look a little bit singed around the edges.
[16:44] * Usagi-chan knows she's being rude and nosy, but she can't help but be curious why Rei would have replaced her manga with these three items. Lifting the photo album out, she opens it, flipping through its pages slowly.
[16:47] <Rei-chan> Only the first 10 or so pages are occupied, and you recognise most of the scenes quite easily from those months after you met all of the other senshi. A few of the photo's look a bit charred from the damage the album suffered, and wet streaks are visible on nearly every page. The last few photos are conspicuous by lacking a certain blonde dumpling head, the remaining girls lacking the vibrancy they had in earlier scenes.
[16:49] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes as she closes the album, replacing it in the box. Not wanting to check the diary, she pulls out the notebook, scanning through it quickly.
[16:50] <Rei-chan> Looks to be song lyrics. The first few read as familiar to you, but you haven't gotten more than a few pages in when you hear slow footsteps approaching the room...
[16:50] * Usagi-chan replaces the notebook and the shoebox lid quickly, standing up and closing the closet (hopefully) before Rei manages to make it back into the room.
[16:53] <Rei-chan> Rei seems to pause outside the door for a moment, giving you ample time to complete the task. Finally entering, the miko doesn't meet your eyes as she places a tray on the low-lying table in the middle of the room. A plate of cookies and a teapot, along with five cups.
[16:53] * Usagi-chan takes just one of the cookies, urging Rei to do the same.
[16:57] <Rei-chan> Rei doesn't seem interested in the cookies, only pouring herself a cup of tea, which she holds but does not drink. "I..." she swallows, still looking meekly down at the table rather than meeting your eyes, "We all missed..." she trails off, finally looking up. "But you said you weren't the Usagi we knew?"
[16:58] <Usagi-chan> "I... no, I don't think I am," Usagi replies. "I think I would have remembered dying," she says with a wry smile. "But I have a guess as to what happened - Ami will probably be able to say for sure."
[17:01] <Rei-chan> Nodding, Rei resumes staring at her steaming cup of tea. "I see," she says softly. Sadly.
[17:02] <Usagi-chan> "What.... happened?" Usagi asks slowly, not sure if she should even ask.
[17:10] <Rei-chan> If anything Rei looks even paler at that question. "You... Usagi... she used the Ginzuishou to destroy Metallia, and..." a tiny sob escapes Rei's lips, but she somehow goes on, "Make everything better. But it cost her her own life." A single tear begins making its way down her cheek, but she does nothing to stop it, continuing to stare at her tea.
[17:12] * Usagi-chan reaches over to take Rei's hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.
[17:13] <Rei-chan> Rei flinches, but doesn't pull her hand away.
[17:13] <Usagi-chan> "I'm sorry," Usagi says quietly. "I know she wouldn't have left you if she'd had any other choice."
[17:15] <Rei-chan> "What was the point?!" Rei asks bitterly, the first bit of liveliness you've seen from her. "Why did she save everyone if she couldn't save herself?"
[17:17] <Usagi-chan> "Because it was worth the price," Usagi replies quietly. "I don't know what she was thinking when she did it, but I bet I can guess. She'd rather see everyone else be able to go on with normal, happy lives even if it cost her her own. That's what I'd do, if it ever came down to that."
[17:20] <Rei-chan> That manages to ignite a spark in Rei, the miko looking up at you fiercely. "And what about those who get left behind and have to go on without you?"
[17:21] * Usagi-chan looks back at Rei calmly, blue eyes meeting violet. "For them, too. She didn't give up her life for you to spend the rest of it mourning her, Rei," she says evenly.
[17:28] <Rei-chan> "Like I wanted to feel like this over that stupid Dumpling Head," Rei snorts bitterly. Any further comments are spared by a knocking at the door. "Come in," she calls.
[17:28] <Rei-chan> The door opens to admit Makoto. "Rei, I..." she trails off, staring at Usagi in shock.
[17:29] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Come on in, Mako-chan. I'm not a ghost."
[17:30] <Rei-chan> "Oh my God!" comes from the brunette's lips, and before you know it she has you wrapped in a tight hug, closing the distance in an instant. "I can't believe... you're really...?"
[17:32] * Usagi-chan returns the hug with a slight smile, although it's hard to breathe. "Not quite so tight, Mako-chan," she rasps out. "I'll explain it once everyone gets here, but I'm... not your Usagi."
[17:34] <Rei-chan> "You're... not?" Makoto slackens her grip, her emerald eyes staring at you with open confusion
[17:35] * Usagi-chan nods, sighing a bit. "I'm pretty sure I know what happened, but I'd rather not explain it four different times."
[17:36] <Rei-chan> Makoto looks over at Rei in confusion, recieving a tiny nod in reply. Sitting down next to you, she continues staring in wonder.
[17:38] * Usagi-chan feels a bit uncomfortable at the scrutiny, rather like a bug under a magnifying glass.
[17:40] <Rei-chan> "Mako-chan, don't stare," Rei speaks up. "She's not our Usagi and she's not staying." Another miniscule sigh escapes the miko's lips at that.
[17:42] <Usagi-chan> "It's... all right," Usagi says slowly. "I can't really blame you, Mako-chan. I'd be shocked too if it seemed like someone came back from the dead." She closes her eyes, wondering how she's going to deal with Minako.
[17:43] <Rei-chan> Makoto looks rather downcast at this turn in the conversation, only managing to ask, "What's with the braid?" after a moment of heavy silence.
[17:45] * Usagi-chan glances up towards her forehead. "Oh, forgot about that," she mutters. Figuring it'll at least get everyone off the subject of the native Usagi's death, she unfastens the braid, letting the glowing moon mark on her forehead shine forth.
[17:45] <Rei-chan> Both Makoto and Rei wince at the sight, averting their eyes.
[17:46] * Usagi-chan frowns a bit, recovering the mark with her braid. "What's wrong?"
[17:47] <Rei-chan> "Our Usagi..." Makoto speaks up haltingly, "She looked like that... at the end."
[17:48] * Usagi-chan nods. "I'm sorry... I should have realized," the blonde says quietly.
[17:49] <Rei-chan> The pair nod mutely, each lost in their own memories of that terrible day, allowing a pervasive silence to settle in once more.
[17:52] * Usagi-chan remains rather subdued as the trio waits, wondering if she'll be ABLE to find a way home.
[17:54] <Rei-chan> A few more minutes pass in this gloomy mood, before the outside door opens without a knock, admitting a certain girl with silver hair and golden eyes. "Rei-ch..." she trails off, noting the blonde as her mouth works but no words issue forth.
[17:55] * Usagi-chan glances up at Minako, feeling a lump form in her throat at the sight of the only senshi to pass on in her own world. "Hello, Minako," she says rather hoarsely.
[17:56] <Rei-chan> "Usagi?" she asks in a tiny voice, leaning on the doorframe as her legs wobble beneath her.
[17:56] * Usagi-chan nods slowly, glad she's not standing - she'd be in much the same condition if she were.
[17:57] <Rei-chan> A few tears begin to form in her eyes as she stares. "How?"
[17:59] <Usagi-chan> "It's... complicated," Usagi says, feeling tears well up in her own eyes as she tries to look at the silver-haired senshi. "I..." she begins, finding herself at a loss for words.
[18:00] <Rei-chan> Minako begins slowly moving towards you before Rei's voice intercedes. "She's not our Usagi," the miko says simply, causing Minako to halt in confusion, looking between you and Rei.
[18:00] * Usagi-chan nods in confirmation, her eyes closed as she tries to halt her tears.
[18:01] <Rei-chan> "But..." Minako tries to form a protest, eventually settling on a timid, "I don't understand."
[18:02] <Usagi-chan> "I'll explain it once Ami gets here," Usagi says just above a whisper, unable to even look up at Minako.
[18:03] <Rei-chan> "She... shouldn't be long," Minako manages, making her way around the table to sit next to Rei. The miko, for her part, frowns at the still open door, and you hear it closing a second later.
[18:04] * Usagi-chan clasps her hands in her lap, trying to regain her composure after Minako's reappearance - especially looking as she does.
[18:07] <Rei-chan> You remain the focus of attention for the room, although you do note Minako distractedly taking Rei's hand in her own as she looks at you, hope and bewilderment clear on her face.
[18:08] * Usagi-chan tries not to wince at the sight of Minako and Rei holding hands - hoping against hope that what happened to Minako in her own world didn't happen here, and that the relationship between the two is more normal.
[18:11] <Rei-chan> A few more moments pass before a polite rapping sounds at the door. Entering, Ami emits a quiet gasp as she sees you.
[18:12] * Usagi-chan glances up at Ami, giving the blue-haired girl a wan smile. "Looks like everyone's here," she says quietly.
[18:12] <Rei-chan> "What... Usagi-chan?" she asks, disbelief clear in her voice.
[18:13] <Usagi-chan> "Yes and no," Usagi says for what feels like the tenth time today. "And now that everyone's here, I can explain what I mean by that."
[18:14] <Rei-chan> Ami sits down next to Makoto - not as close as Rei and Minako are sitting, though, and you now have everyone's full and undivided attention...
[18:16] * Usagi-chan takes a deep breath, finally looking up at the assembled senshi. "As near as I can guess, I'm not actually from this world," Usagi begins. "In my own world, I never died fighting Metallia - no one's died in fighting at all. But one of the things we've found out in what happened since is that there are other worlds, some of which are almost exactly the same as ours - other than a few minor differences.
[18:16] <Usagi-chan> I'm guessing that to me, this world is one of those - and my world would be like that to all of you."
[18:17] <Rei-chan> "You're saying you're from a parallel universe?" Ami clarifies.
[18:17] * Usagi-chan nods to Ami. "That's the word, thanks - I couldn't remember what it was called."
[18:19] <Rei-chan> "So there's some other world out there... with all of us? And we all survived Metallia?" Makoto asks, amazed.
[18:19] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling a bit. "We all made it past Metallia where I come from, yeah," Usagi replies.
[18:21] <Rei-chan> "Then... how are things in your world, now?" Minako asks. "Are you fighting the Deathbusters and those former Moon prisoners as well?"
[18:22] <Usagi-chan> "You're fighting them all at the same time?" Usagi says, rather surprised. "We've fought and won against all of them already in my world."
[18:23] <Rei-chan> "I guess having you around really does make that difference..." Rei says softly, earning a sharp look from Minako. The miko notices and seems rather abashed, not meeting anyone's eyes after her statement.
[18:25] * Usagi-chan glances between Rei and Minako, the faintest hint of a frown on her face at the unspoken byplay between the two - and finding that her hopes are dwindling fast for the pair. "It wasn't easy with all of us around," Usagi replies.
[18:26] <Rei-chan> "I suppose having the Silver Crystal would help a lot," Minako nods, smiling at you. "We've had to work hard in every battle since then."
[18:27] <Usagi-chan> "We didn't have it after the battle with Metallia," Usagi says. "We didn't lose any lives, but the Crystal WAS lost - for a long time."
[18:30] <Rei-chan> "I think we'd all rather have just lost the Crystal than losing Usagi," Makoto says quietly.
[18:30] <Rei-chan> Ami just looks uncomfortably between Rei and Minako before focusing on Usagi. "If you've already dealt with the Deathbusters and those escaped prisoners, could you tell us what you know about them? They have been giving us a lot of trouble..." she winces slightly at that understatement.
[18:31] <Usagi-chan> "I'm not sure how much I should say," Usagi says, looking a bit uncomfortable. "The one other time we went to a parallel universe, we had to be really careful about not saying too much about things that had happened in our world but not in the other."
[18:32] <Rei-chan> "Let me guess," Minako says, not sounding happy at all, "Sailor Pluto told you that?"
[18:34] * Usagi-chan nods. "The one we talked to said she couldn't actually stop us, but she asked us not to. Considering what she'd been through, I couldn't do anything but agree." She sighs a bit at that. "I can probably give you a few things, but not anything that would really change the way things are going, I expect."
[18:36] <Rei-chan> "Anything would help," Ami says earnestly, her computer already in front of her. "Especially information on the Talismans that the Deathbusters are looking for. Rei-chan," she gestures at the now conspicuously silent miko, "Said if they got them it'd mean the end of the world."
[18:37] <Usagi-chan> "To be perfectly honest, you don't have to worry about them too much," Usagi replies. "One of them is literally impossible for anyone to get right now, and without all three of the Talismans, they're pretty much useless for what Germatou needs them for."
[18:38] <Rei-chan> "Germatou?" Ami picks up on that curiously. "Is that their leader?"
[18:39] * Usagi-chan nods. "That's the name of the daimon who's controlling everything," Usagi responds. "I expect you've already met a few of the Deathbusters yourselves - they're all brainwashed right now. None of them really understands what they're working towards."
[18:42] <Rei-chan> The mention of brainwashing causes everyone to unconsciously glance at Rei, who flinches at the attention. Blushing as she realises she's making her friend uncomfortable, Ami goes on, "That could help us a great deal. As to our other enemy, I've gotten a little bit from my computer records, and Minako and Rei both spoke with Starfire and Sailor Pluto about them..."
[18:42] <Rei-chan> "They weren't very helpful," Minako adds.
[18:44] * Usagi-chan sighs. "If it's like what they told us in my world, they told us all they could," Usagi says. "I still don't understand Setsuna's duties perfectly myself, but I do know she's got a lot of restrictions on what she can and can't say. Don't be too hard on her - she IS trying to help."
[18:48] <Rei-chan> "Well, even if that's all you can tell us, it will help a lot, I'm sure," Ami offers, smiling slightly. "And if the Deathbusters can be reasoned with, they could help take a lot of the pressure from the other attacks off."
[18:51] <Usagi-chan> "Most of them don't even know why they're looking for the Talismans - only that Germatou wants them. If you can get them to believe you about the Silence, you might be able to get through to them - but it won't be easy without knowing them." She sighs, realizing what a blessing in disguise Rei's second brainwashing really had been.
[18:53] <Rei-chan> "It's still better than just killing them," Makoto nods. "I mean, Alan and Ann were a lot of trouble at first, but we got through to them, didn't we?" A series of nods greets that.
[18:53] <Usagi-chan> "You've already dealt with them?" Usagi says, smiling a bit. "That's good to hear."
[18:56] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Makoto smiles fondly. "Was really surprising when I found out my boyfriend was behind those energy draining attacks, but we helped him and Ann understand that their tree didn't need stolen energy to survive."
[18:57] <Usagi-chan> "I'm glad they made it through okay here, too," Usagi says with an honest smile. "I hope things are going as well for you and Alan as they are back home... well, maybe not QUITE that well," she says with a slight giggle.
[18:58] <Rei-chan> Makoto blushes at that. "That's nobody else's business," she mutters weakly.
[18:59] * Usagi-chan blushes as well. "Just... be careful, that's all I'll say," she says, although she can't hide her smile.
[19:00] <Rei-chan> "We are," Makoto hisses, glancing at the others who are all looking on with interest, even Rei seeming mildly curious.
[19:01] <Usagi-chan> "Sorry," Usagi says, feeling a bit embarrassed on Makoto's behalf. "I'll... talk to you about it later," she offers.
[19:03] <Rei-chan> "Okay..." Makoto mutters, grabbing a cookie and munching on it in an effort to just do SOMETHING besides sit there and look embarrassed.
[19:04] <Usagi-chan> "Anyway... how are things going with the criminals?" Usagi asks, trying to change the subject.
[19:07] <Rei-chan> "We've beaten Celcia and Orestes, but that's it," Ami reports unhappily.
[19:07] <Rei-chan> Makoto nods enthusiastically, though, "That pervert tried to sneak into my apartment at night and do who knows what. But Alan and I clobbered him, good!"
[19:11] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Glad to hear it... he managed to kidnap you back home, and it wasn't pretty," Usagi replies. "We managed to get you back all right, but he really messed you up for a while."
[19:11] <Rei-chan> Makoto shivers. "Some of the things he was saying... ugh, I'd hate to ever have him get his hands on me..."
[19:13] * Usagi-chan nods. "Things worked out all right, but... it was kind of rough for a while," Usagi says quietly. "Who else do you know of that's left?"
[19:16] <Rei-chan> "Oxyite and Cynthia," Ami pipes up. "They seem to be sticking together, and we've only seen them a few times." She winces slightly, "Thankfully."
[19:16] <Rei-chan> "And Rei-chan and I have our very own stalkers as well," Minako puts in unhappily. "I've only seen Pytha once, but I know he's watching me, sometimes." She shudders before going on, "And Jadeite likes to come here and harass Rei-chan when he's not 'conquering the world'."
[19:16] <Rei-chan> That last bit earns a snort from the previously quiet miko, but she doesn't elaborate.
[19:18] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Jadeite... you might be able to get through to him, although we never could manage it back home," Usagi says unhappily. "Pytha we never actually fought." She scowls, remembering her brief conversation with the criminal-turned-fashion designer.
[19:20] <Rei-chan> Rei finally speaks up, "Jadeite isn't even dangerous, I think. He just likes to come here and brag about how he's going to rule the world." She snorts, "He's probably just lonely and has no one else to talk to."
[19:20] <Rei-chan> Minako frowns, "He still shouldn't bother you, Rei-chan."
[19:21] <Usagi-chan> "You're probably more right than you know, Rei-chan," Usagi replies. "I'm not sure what he was trying to do with us - he kept trying to steal power from the other criminals after we defeated them. He TRIED to take Mako-chan's power, too, but I managed to stop him that time."
[19:24] <Rei-chan> "We'll deal with him and the rest," Minako says simply, her golden eyes glinting with some unknown emotion. Beside her, a flicker of pain crosses Rei's features, but she schools herself almost instantly.
[19:25] * Usagi-chan frowns, remembering Minako's methods of 'dealing' with the criminals. "How many of the others do you know of? Did Starfire and Pluto give you anything else?"
[19:26] <Rei-chan> "She said all the others had left the Solar System," Minako answers.
[19:32] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Cynthia will be worse if I'm around - she's got a grudge against me in particular. Oxyite... I'm not even sure what to tell you about him. For the rest, you probably know as much as I do about how to deal with them."
[19:33] <Rei-chan> Ami shakes her head, "Oxyite and Cynthia just seem to cause havoc wherever they go, without any real pattern we've been able to figure out."
[19:38] <Usagi-chan> "Cynthia... will be trouble if she's left alone for too long," Usagi finally says, not sure how much to tell the others about the summoner.  "And Oxyite will be tough no matter what you do."
[19:39] <Rei-chan> Rei nods. "I'd rather we didn't have to deal with an entire army of those damn demons she summons."
[19:43] <Usagi-chan> "You may have to if you don't get to her quickly," Usagi says with a slight frown. "If I'm here you might be able to get through to her, but if not... I don't know how easy it'll be to reason with her."
[19:44] <Rei-chan> "She did seem a bit crazed when we tried to talk to her," Minako nods. "Even Oxyite seemed more reasonable... until he started cutting us to ribbons..."
[19:47] <Usagi-chan> "Other than that, I'm not sure what I can tell you," Usagi says with a slight sigh. "Oxyite... we've either got to separate him from his sword or catch him completely by surprise. Even if we manage to beat him otherwise, we still lose."
[19:47] <Rei-chan> "How do you mean?" Makoto asks.
[19:49] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "His sword is... it reinforces his power, a LOT. If he manages to build it up while you're fighting him, it'll be pretty catastrophic when he loses control of it."
[19:50] <Rei-chan> "We'll figure something out," Minako asserts confidently.
[07:21] <Usagi-chan> "Just be careful," Usagi cautions. "You don't want to underestimate any of them - they're all pretty powerful."
[07:22] <Rei-chan> "Believe me, Usagi," Ami says softly, "We've found that out already."
[07:22] * Usagi-chan looks over at Ami. "What happened?"
[07:27] <Rei-chan> "It was a few days after Orestes showed up," Ami begins. "I ran into one of Cynthia's demons making a mess on the street - thankfully I got there before it had killed anyone. I fought it for a bit, and the other's showed up and we finished it off. Then Oxyite and Cynthia appeared themselves..." She winces, rubbing her side, "Cynthia just watched, but Oxyite was more than bad enough..."
[07:28] * Usagi-chan grimaces, nodding in assent - she's quite aware of just how bad the blue-skinned swordsman really is. "I'm glad to see you made it away safely, at least," Usagi replies.
[07:30] <Rei-chan> "Running away stinks," Makoto says bitterly. "But..." her expression softens as she looks at Usagi, "It sure beats the alternative, I guess..."
[07:31] <Usagi-chan> "It does that," Usagi says quietly. "We had to retreat the first time WE ran into Oxyite, too."
[07:34] <Rei-chan> "At least he seems to be laying low, for the most part," Ami offers. "Bad as he is, dealing with those Witches every other day is probably more taxing, in its way."
[07:35] <Usagi-chan> "Have they been pretty active with their Heart Snatches?" Usagi looks concerned.
[07:37] <Rei-chan> "Very," Ami nods. "And even with as many times as we stumble onto them, I worry about how many they must go after that we never even see."
[07:39] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Well, there's only one person who's in any direct danger from those - only one of the Talismans is actually here in Tokyo." Letting a slight frown cross her face, she nods. "If I'm going to be here for a while, that'll probably be the first thing I'll check on."
[07:40] <Rei-chan> "How long are you going to be here?" Minako asks pointedly.
[07:41] <Usagi-chan> "I have no idea," Usagi says, deflating a bit. "From the sound of it, about all I can do is hope that everyone at home will be working to find me and get me back - it sounds like you're all way too busy to be worrying about that right now."
[07:42] <Rei-chan> "We'll do what we can, Usagi-chan," Ami offers kindly, "It's just... we don't really know WHAT we can do in this situation..."
[07:43] <Usagi-chan> "I don't either," Usagi says sadly. "The one other time we went to another universe, it was other people who worked out the details - I just provided the power."
[07:44] <Rei-chan> "Well, who worked out the details?" Ami asks.
[07:45] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly. "You and a few of the former Deathbusters," she replies. "Not exactly helpful right now, I know."
[07:46] <Rei-chan> Ami does look a little bit ruffled, there. "Well... maybe I'll be able to come up with something?"
[07:47] <Usagi-chan> "Don't push yourself too hard, Ami-chan," she says. "I know you've already got to be really busy trying to deal with everything else going on right now."
[07:50] <Rei-chan> "We have to do something," Ami says earnestly, her eyes ever so briefly flickering to Rei, "Our counterparts in your world surely must be incredibly worried about you, right now."
[07:52] * Usagi-chan also glances over at Rei. "I'm... sure they are," she says quietly. "I just hope everyone is all right back home."
[07:53] <Rei-chan> "Well, you said you'd already dealt with all the enemies we're fighting, right?" Makoto offers. "Even if they're worried, it's not like missing you for a couple of days will cause some big catastrophe?"
[07:55] * Usagi-chan nods. "Things ARE pretty peaceful back home," she admits. "There's nothing going on that me being missing will turn into a disaster - I just hope Chibi Usa is doing all right, she was actually with me when I got pulled into this world."
[07:55] <Rei-chan> "Chibi Usa?" Minako repeats quizzicly.
[07:56] <Usagi-chan> "My daughter," Usagi says with a slight smile, thinking of the little pink-haired girl. "Adopted," she adds quickly to forestall the questions she knows are coming.
[07:57] <Rei-chan> That still manages to get a round of puzzled blinking, even with your addendum.
[07:59] <Usagi-chan> "To make a long story short, she's from a parallel dimension herself, in the future. Her future was lost, though, so I ended up adopting her." Usagi explains.
[08:02] <Rei-chan> "Wow..." the girls all seem rather impressed by that, but also unsure whether to ask any clarifying questions or just accept it and let it go.
[08:06] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I just hope she's not too upset by what happened." She shakes her head. "Anyway, you guys don't need to worry about that. I guess the question now is, what now?"
[08:11] <Rei-chan> "I guess you're stuck here until either we or our counterparts figure something out..." Minako offers. "You can stay with Ami or Makoto until then, right?" she gives the pair in question a look that implies they had damn well better say yes.
[08:15] <Usagi-chan> "I figured I'd stay here, if it was all right with Rei," Usagi says. "She's got a lot more space here at the Shrine than anyone else does." 'And frankly, I think she needs someone around to talk to,' she doesn't add. "It's up to you guys though."
[08:18] <Rei-chan> Rei hesitantly looks up at Minako, who shakes her head slightly. Giving a tiny nod, Rei begins, "I..."
[08:18] <Rei-chan> "You can stay with me, Usagi-chan," Ami pipes up quickly, saving Rei from having to come up with some sort of excuse. "It's no trouble at all, and the apartment gets lonely with Mother working so much..."
[08:20] * Usagi-chan frowns, not liking this turn of events at all. "Thanks, Ami-chan," she says.
[08:21] <Rei-chan> "Uh, anyway..." Makoto stands up awkwardly, "Alan'll be wanting his dinner, so I guess I'd better get home before he tries to cook anything himself." She chuckles lamely at that. "It was... good, seeing you, Usagi-chan."
[08:22] * Usagi-chan smiles weakly. "I'm glad to hear you're doing well here, Mako-chan. Tell Alan I said hi."
[08:23] <Rei-chan> "I will..." Makoto looks momentarily unsure, before she leans down and gives you another hug. "It really is good to see you again," she whispers earnestly, before pulling away and making her exit.
[08:25] * Usagi-chan smiles as she returns the hug. "I'll talk to you about that other thing later," she says as Makoto leaves the room.
[08:26] <Rei-chan> Makoto stumbles at the door. "Sure..." she manages weakly, before quickening her pace out of there.
[08:31] * Usagi-chan glances over at Ami. "I guess we should be going too," she finally says. "I'll see you guys later," Usagi says, nodding to Rei in particular.
[08:33] <Rei-chan> Ami nods, standing, while Rei doesn't meet your eyes. "See you tomorrow, Rei-chan, Minako-chan," she says to the pair.
[08:36] <Usagi-chan> "Lead the way, Ami-chan," Usagi says quietly.
[08:36] <Rei-chan> "Bye," Minako waves as Ami leads you from the Shrine...
[08:38] * Usagi-chan takes a deep sigh as the two make their way down the steps. "She doesn't look so good," Usagi says to Ami as the pair make their exit.
[08:39] <Rei-chan> "Rei-chan?" Ami asks quietly. "No. She's... never been the same. Not since... Metallia..."
[08:39] * Usagi-chan nods. "It hit her just as hard back home, too," she says with a sigh. "And some things only made it worse, at least at first."
[08:41] <Rei-chan> "I'm sure having you around would have helped her a lot," Ami essays a small smile at you as you walk.
[08:42] <Usagi-chan> "It... seemed to back home," Usagi says with a slight smile. The two walk for a couple of blocks in silence before Usagi speaks again. "What about Minako?"
[08:43] <Rei-chan> "What about her?" Ami asks innocently, though you can tell by her body language that she's just gotten rather nervous.
[08:44] * Usagi-chan sighs at the shift in Ami's posture, that in itself telling her almost everything she needs to know. "What has she been like since Usagi... left you?"
[08:48] <Rei-chan> "She... kept us together," Ami volunteers after a moment. "After Metallia, we all drifted apart. I lost myself in my studies, Mako-chan kept getting in trouble at school, and Rei-chan... just became lost to the world." She sighs softly. "As a friend and a Princess, Usagi was what bonded us all together... I think if Minako-chan hadn't worked so much to keep us all as a group, we'd have become nothing more than strangers to each other..
[08:52] <Usagi-chan> "How did she keep you together?" Usagi asks in a low tone. She's already fairly sure she knows the answer - more bullying than anything else - but she wants to hear it from Ami.
[08:56] <Rei-chan> "Perseverance," Ami smiles softly. "She'd drag us all to the Crown at least once a week, from whatever we were doing to distract ourselves. None of us were good company at all, then, but... time helped. Eventually we stopped grieving in isolation and helped each other." She looks down at her feet as you both walk, "Things aren't the same as they were with Usagi, but... most of us are coping."
[08:59] * Usagi-chan nods. "Most of you," she echoes. She closes her eyes, following the sound of Ami's footsteps. "I just wish I knew what to do here," she whispers half to herself as the pair go on.
[09:02] <Rei-chan> The blue-haired genius has no ready answer, and the pair of you proceed in heavy silence to her apartment. After a light meal of re-heated pasta, the evening wears on...
[09:04] <Usagi-chan> Around 8 o'clock or so, Usagi frowns, wanting to deal with what's weighing most on her mind right now. Closing her eyes, she lets her senses reach out towards the Hikawa Shrine, trying to sense who might be there right now.
[09:04] <Rei-chan> OOC: soul check, +3
[09:04] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+3
[09:04] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+3 and gets 12."
[09:06] <Rei-chan> You think you can sense Rei... you think. Nothing else manages to grab you.
[09:07] * Usagi-chan rises from her chair. "I think I'm going to take a walk for a bit, Ami-chan," Usagi says shortly. "I'll be back in a while."
[09:08] <Rei-chan> Ami looks up. "Okay, Usagi-chan. Just be back before ten, please - that's when I'll be going to bed."
[09:10] <Usagi-chan> "I'll do my best," Usagi says with a slight smile. "See you later." With that, the blonde departs, turning her steps towards the Hikawa Shrine once again. As she walks, she keeps her senses trained on the temple - the last thing she needs right now is to encounter Minako with Rei there, as she suspects things will go sour in a rather large hurry if she does.
[09:14] <Rei-chan> OOC: soul check, +1
[09:14] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+1
[09:14] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+1 and gets 8."
[09:15] <Rei-chan> As you near the Shrine, things come into clearer focus. Minako and Rei's auras both pretty noticable by the time you reach the Shrine steps.
[09:16] * Usagi-chan blows out a sigh, keeping going right on past the stairs. "Not worth that trouble," she mutters to herself, rounding the corner on the other side of the stairs.
[09:17] <Rei-chan> Round the corner, you find a darkened, empty street...
[09:18] * Usagi-chan frowns a bit at the look of the dark avenue, but keeps on going, remaining alert for any kind of trouble - there's plenty of it around, apparently.
[09:19] <Rei-chan> You continue walking aimlessly, encountering a few other people going about at this hour. Nobody pays you any particular mind, and nothing of any real interest jumps out at you, though.
[09:20] * Usagi-chan simply heads back to Ami's apartment, her heart a dull weight in her chest as she thinks about Rei.
[09:22] <Rei-chan> It's a little over half past eight when you return, greeted by Ami at the door. "How was your walk?" she asks pleasantly.
[09:24] <Usagi-chan> "Nothing much to talk about," Usagi replies dully, heading back inside the apartment. She rubs her temples as she takes a seat on the couch.
[09:46] <Rei-chan> "If you say so..." Ami says, slightly dubious as she returns to her armchair.
[09:49] * Usagi-chan wears a rather dour look as she sits on the couch, deep in thought.
[09:51] <Rei-chan> "I realise this can't be easy for you, Usagi-chan," Ami speaks up hesitantly after a moment or two, "But we'll find a way to get you back home, I'm sure."
[09:52] <Usagi-chan> "Thanks, Ami-chan," Usagi says absently. "I know you'll do your best, and I really do appreciate it."
[09:54] <Rei-chan> Ami smiles, but it dies as she sees a lack of real response from you. "I've mostly asked about things like enemies and senshi business, haven't I?" she notes, a trifle abashed. "What's life like in your world? Just as the day to day things?"
[09:56] * Usagi-chan smiles, taking the opportunity to take her mind off the rather depressing subject of Rei for a while. "It's really a lot of fun," she says with a slight smile. "We've had our ups and downs - outside of senshi business - but things have really settled down to be pretty nice in the past few months."
[09:57] <Rei-chan> "Are you and-" Ami begins before catching herself, "I mean, uh, are you doing well in school?" she asks lamely.
[10:00] <Usagi-chan> "Who were you going to ask about?" Usagi says gently. "I don't mind talking about that."
[10:01] <Rei-chan> Ami looks rather uncomfortable, before steeling herself. "How are things between you and Mamoru-san?"
[10:02] * Usagi-chan smiles very faintly. "They're not, actually. We separated several months ago, but we've both moved on since."
[10:02] <Rei-chan> Ami blinks, her mouth forming a small 'o'. "You did?" she asks faintly, surprise obvious.
[10:04] * Usagi-chan nods a bit. "Things just... weren't working out between us. I guess you could say he was stuck in the past," she says with a wry smile.
[10:04] <Rei-chan> "I see..." Ami says, still sounding rather stunned.
[10:06] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit. "You should see the look on your face, Ami-chan," she says with a smile.
[10:07] <Rei-chan> "It's just..." Ami shakes her head, "Surprising, is all. I would have expected that once you two got together then nothing would pull you apart."
[10:09] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Metallia managed it... or at least the aftereffects of Metallia," she replies. "He wasn't in very good shape after we defeated her, and he said some things that I just couldn't ignore."
[10:10] <Rei-chan> Ami winces. "I imagine he'd still be in better shape than he was, here..."
[10:11] * Usagi-chan grimaces. "I'm almost afraid to ask... what happened to him?"
[10:13] <Rei-chan> "We... don't know," Ami admits. "He just vanished. Not even Motoki knows where he went... He cleared out his apartment, de-registered for his classes at Azabu Tech, and as far as we know left Tokyo, if not Japan, entirely."
[10:15] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Not a real surprise... he went on 'vacation' for the better part of three weeks after Metallia in my world, right when we were in the middle of fighting the criminals there."
[10:16] <Rei-chan> Ami blinks. "Huh... no wonder you dumped him..."
[10:17] <Usagi-chan> "That wasn't even the worst of it," Usagi says, shaking her head a bit. "When he told me he was leaving, he said he couldn't decide whether he wanted to kiss me or kill me - it really freaked me out. I tried, but I never could bring myself to trust him again completely after that."
[10:18] <Rei-chan> "Oh, my..." Ami gasps.
[10:19] * Usagi-chan nods glumly. "I think he did manage to straighten out his head while he was gone, but... the damage was already done," Usagi replies. "We broke up about three months after that, although we never really saw much of each other between New Year's and March."
[10:20] <Rei-chan> "Doesn't sound like an ideal relationship at all..." Ami mutters. "Well," she composes herself, "You said you'd both moved on?"
[10:22] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling a bit. "He actually ended up with Setsuna - Sailor Pluto, if you can believe that. I haven't heard too much from them lately, but I'm hoping things are going well for them."
[10:24] <Rei-chan> "I've never met Setsuna myself," Ami admits. "I wonder if that's what happened, here...?"
[10:25] <Usagi-chan> "It's possible, I guess, but without contacting Setsuna I guess there's really no way to know." Usagi shrugs. "I hope he's doing well, wherever he is."
[10:25] <Rei-chan> "Yes..." Ami murmurs thoughtfully.
[10:27] <Usagi-chan> "What about you?" Usagi asks, avoiding the issue of her own love life for the moment. "Have you managed to find anyone here?"
[10:28] <Rei-chan> "Oh, no," Ami shakes her head. "I'm too worried about my studies and senshi business to be concerned with romance."
[10:29] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly. "Sounds familiar," she says. "Give it time, Ami-chan - I'm sure you'll meet someone who's just perfect for you."
[10:30] <Rei-chan> "Maybe when I'm older," Ami offers with a non-commital shrug.
[10:31] <Usagi-chan> "It'll work itself out, I'm sure." Usagi gives the other girl an honest smile.
[10:32] <Rei-chan> "Hmm," Ami gives a non-commital grunt in reply. "What about yourself?" she tries to turn the attention off of herself, "You did say you'd both moved on, after all."
[10:35] * Usagi-chan 's smile fades rather quickly. "That's... where things are going to start getting messy, if they haven't already," she says quietly, looking away from Ami.
[10:35] <Rei-chan> "What do you mean?" Ami asks, puzzled. "Is it someone I know?"
[10:36] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, it is," Usagi replies a bit distantly. "It's Rei."
[10:37] <Rei-chan> Ami gasps, covering her mouth with her hands as she stares at you in shock.
[10:39] * Usagi-chan nods slowly, closing her eyes.
[10:41] <Rei-chan> "Oh, God..." Ami nearly whimpers, leaning forward. "Usagi-chan, please, no matter what happens here, you mustn't let Rei know about that. It would crush her completely."
[10:42] <Usagi-chan> "I'm not planning on it... but I've got to do something to help her while I'm here," Usagi says, the pain evident in her voice. "You have no idea how much it hurts to see her like this."
[10:43] <Rei-chan> "I understand," Ami nods sympathetically, "Things with Rei-chan are... fragile and complicated, at best. I don't know everything myself, but I have guessed a good deal."
[10:44] <Usagi-chan> "I think I can guess a big part of it myself," Usagi says sourly. "And her name is Minako. She's acting WAY too familiar for things to be right there."
[10:47] <Rei-chan> Ami winces. "Don't be too hard on Minako-chan. Rei-chan... she was doing far worse than she is, now. Minako helped her a lot."
[10:49] <Usagi-chan> "I don't know what she's done for Rei, you're right. But I'm not blind - I can see that Rei is absolutely miserable now, and I know Minako was part of what was causing that back home." The blonde shakes her head. "Minako's acting too much like she did then, and it looks like it's doing the same things to Rei here that it did at home - and this time, I'm not around to help her." She deflates at that.
[10:53] <Rei-chan> "None of us really know what to do," Ami admits sadly. "I'm useless in these matters, and Mako-chan's just too brash. She winds up upsetting Rei even more whenever she tries to help... only Minako seems able to get through to her at all, and..." she shrugs helplessly, "I sometimes think that she needs help just as badly as Rei-chan does."
[10:56] * Usagi-chan sighs at that. "Probably more so," Usagi says in a small voice. "She looks the same as she did for me, and it became obvious pretty quick at home that Minako wasn't in love with Rei - she was obsessed with her."
[10:58] <Rei-chan> Ami wimces. "You could be right. At times I think she treats Rei more like a pet than an equal. But... Rei never complains." She manages a half-hearted chuckle, "Hard to imagine, but Rei-chan never complains about anything, anymore."
[10:59] <Usagi-chan> "She's never forgiven herself for what happened with Metallia, has she?" Usagi asks quietly.
[11:00] <Rei-chan> Ami nods. "None of us blame her at all, but..." she sighs, "Rei-chan is her own harshest critic."
[11:02] <Usagi-chan> "That's for sure," Usagi says with a sigh. "I need to get a chance to talk to her alone, but I get the feeling I'm not going to get the chance. Minako never was one to respect other people's privacy, so I wouldn't be surprised if she already knows how I feel about Rei."
[11:03] <Rei-chan> Ami sighs. "It's well within her abilities. And... I think Rei-chan felt that way about y-Usagi. And Minako knows it."
[11:05] <Usagi-chan> "It wouldn't surprise me," Usagi says, shaking her head. "I'm GOING to have a private talk with her before I leave though, if I have to take Rei to the other side of the world to do it. I just can't leave her like this."
[11:07] <Rei-chan> "We'd all be grateful if you could help her," Ami says earnestly. "Even Minako, I think... on some level, she has to recognise that this isn't the Rei she fell in love with. And I can't imagine she'd have wanted this change."
[11:11] <Usagi-chan> "Minako probably won't like my advice," Usagi says grimly. "I won't tell Rei to break things off with her, but I WILL tell her that she needs to respect herself enough to make that decision if it comes down to that. And back home, she did."
[11:26] <Rei-chan> Ami looks a bit conflicted there. "If it'll help them both in the long run..." she concedes.
[11:28] <Usagi-chan> "I know it'll help Rei," Usagi says with a sigh. "What it will do to Minako... that'll be up to her to decide." She looks down at her lap at that.
[11:29] <Rei-chan> "Did things go badly for her in your world?" Ami asks gently.
[11:31] <Usagi-chan> "That... would be an understatement," Usagi says, staring at her clasped hands. "She left the senshi after Rei split up with her - decided she had other things to do with her life that were more important."
[11:32] <Rei-chan> Now Ami looks REALLY conflicted. "I... we can't afford to lose her as well..."
[11:35] <Usagi-chan> "I know," Usagi says quietly. "Now you know why I'm so worried over what I should do," she says quietly. "I can't bear to leave things the way they are, but if I do what I need to do I may upset things even more."
[11:39] <Rei-chan> Ami just sits in silence for a few moments, digesting the possible ramifications. "You know..." she speaks up at last, "You've really grown up a lot, Usagi-chan. The Usagi I remember... she'd just butt her nose in and say what she felt without a thought of the consequences..." She sighs, "I always envied her for being able to do that, truthfully. But I'm glad to see you temper it with reason."
[11:40] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit at the compliment. "I've had to change a lot in the past few months," the blonde replies. "This is a big part of it," she adds, tapping the braid covering her moon marking.
[11:42] <Rei-chan> "Oh?" Ami blinks. "How so?"
[11:44] * Usagi-chan pauses for a moment, wondering how to put it. "I... got a reminder that I was more than just Sailor Moon, more than just Usagi Tsukino - that I have other responsibilities to live up to. And in learning to live up to them, I guess I've had to grow up quite a bit."
[11:47] <Rei-chan> "Oh," Ami nods. "Yes... finding out you were the Princess really did change everything. I suppose it wouldn't just go back to normal after beating the Dark Kingdom, would it?"
[11:57] <Usagi-chan> "It could have, if I'd let it," Usagi replies. "But I decided not to - I decided to make the best job of being the Princess - and the Queen - that I could."
[11:58] <Rei-chan> Ami smiles a bit sadly. "I wonder if our Usagi would have done that..."
[11:59] <Usagi-chan> "I wish I could tell you," Usagi says a bit sadly. "I know you miss her, but I can understand what she must have been thinking."
[12:01] <Rei-chan> "Yes..." Ami sighs softly. "You'd understand better than anyone, wouldn't you?"
[12:02] <Usagi-chan> "That's part of why seeing Rei this way hurts so much." Usagi shakes her head. "I know she gave up her life so that everyone would have a chance to have a happy life again... and I know Rei doesn't mean it that way, but she's throwing that gift away."
[12:04] <Rei-chan> Ami nods. "We've tried telling her that Usagi wouldn't want to see her like this - and you prove it, but..." she sighs helplessly, "Like I said. Nothing gets through to her, anymore."
[12:05] <Usagi-chan> "Maybe I can," she says with a sigh. "I'm definitely going to try, I know that much."
[12:06] <Rei-chan> "I hope you can, Usagi. I really do."
[12:07] <Rei-chan> The rest of the night passes, sleeping on a futon in Ami's room. Waking the next morning, Mrs Mizuno has already left for work - you never even saw her come home last night, and Ami is getting ready for school...
[12:08] * Usagi-chan sits up in the futon, yawning after a very fitful sleep. "Morning," she says sleepily.
[12:09] <Rei-chan> "Morning," Ami replies, already awake and dressed. "I have to go to school, now. Do you have any plans for today?"
[12:10] <Usagi-chan> "A couple," Usagi replies. "I'll have to be fairly careful about what I'm doing, though. I'm going to try to check out the Deathbusters' operations a little more, and see if I can find the Talisman carrier - make sure she's all right."
[12:12] <Rei-chan> Ami frowns. "Do you want me to come with you? It could be dangerous."
[12:13] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I should be all right," she replies. "I can get myself out of most trouble I might run into if things get crazy, and I'm not planning on doing anything too risky today."
[12:15] <Rei-chan> "Are you sure?" Ami presses, clearly concerned. "The Deathbusters are very dangerous, even if they are brainwashed."
[12:16] <Usagi-chan> "I'm not even going inside their base of operations," Usagi replies. "If you want to come along I guess you can, but to be perfectly honest one more person isn't going to make a huge difference if it comes down to a fight."
[12:17] <Rei-chan> "I can afford to miss one day of school," Ami nods, resolute.
[12:18] <Usagi-chan> "All right then," Usagi says, stretching a bit in her bed. "We'll head over to Mugen after breakfast, then."
[12:20] <Rei-chan> "Mugen? The school?" Ami blinks.
[12:21] * Usagi-chan nods. "If you're coming along, you're going to have to know, anyway. The Deathbusters are all students there, and Germatou - the daimon controlling them all - is currently possessing Professor Souichi Tomoe, the headmaster."
[12:21] <Rei-chan> Oh, boy! Ami looks pissed. "Perverting education for evil?" she says, aghast. "I won't allow it!" the blue-haired girl declares, striking a righteous pose!
[12:23] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit. "Like I said, I don't want to go inside the school today - the lower levels where his labs and all the daimon-making equipment is are an absolute maze, and most of them are protected by security doors. I doubt the codes I know for them will work he

[Halbarad]

[12:47] <Rei-chan> OOC: soul check, +3
[12:47] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+3
[12:47] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+3 and gets 8."
[12:48] <Rei-chan> You can sense the senshi of the sky up ahead. Inside the school already, you think.
[12:50] * Usagi-chan takes a sigh of relief. "Haruka's already inside, but she seems to be okay - they must not have found her yet," she murmurs to Ami. "We'll have to wait for her to come out when school lets out." Heading across the street to a small cafe with a view of the school's entrance, she takes a seat at an outdoor table, ordering a cup of tea.
[12:50] <Rei-chan> Ami follows you, getting some tea herself, which is readily procured. "So we're just going to sit here all day and wait?" she asks.
[12:52] <Usagi-chan> "I didn't really have anything else to do today," Usagi says apologetically. "I'm going to try to see what I can make out about what's inside the school from here, but like I said - I'm not planning on going inside today. Not without a lot more of us here."
[12:53] <Rei-chan> Nodding, Ami produces her computer, tapping a few keys before closing it and leaving it on the table. Upside down, you note, so the Mercury symbol isn't visible.
[12:54] * Usagi-chan half-lids her eyes, concentrating on the school and particularly its lower levels as she tries to pick up any details she can about it through her aura sense.
[12:55] <Rei-chan> OOC: Soul check, +4
[12:57] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+4
[12:57] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+4 and gets 12."
[12:58] <Rei-chan> It's... hmm. You can't really sense much of anything. There's hundreds of people all packed densely into the one building, so it's all just a wash to you, really.
[12:59] * Usagi-chan frowns a bit, letting out a small sigh - she wasn't expecting much from this idea, and unfortunately that's exactly what she got.
[13:00] <Rei-chan> Ami notes your sigh, setting down her teacup. "No luck?"
[13:01] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Just too many people in there to make out any details - it's always been a problem at Mugen. Almost everyone there has a stronger aura than normal, and it makes it hard to make out any details."
[13:04] <Rei-chan> "Hopefully my computer will pick up something..." Ami sighs, glancing briefly at said object.
[13:06] <Usagi-chan> "How are things going at school for everyone?" Usagi asks, searching for something to talk about since it seems they'll be here for some time.
[13:08] <Rei-chan> "Fairly well," Ami smiles. "Mako-chan and I are both still at Juuban, and she's improved her grades a lot, lately." A flicker of displeasure crosses Ami's expression briefly as she goes on, "I missed two points in the last mock exam, though."
[13:11] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit at that. "You're slipping," she teases lightly. "What about Rei and Minako?"
[13:14] <Rei-chan> "Minako seems to think all the nuns there are out to get her," Ami giggles a bit. "She seems to have a new story about their evil every other day."
[13:20] <Usagi-chan> "So she's still at T*A?" Usagi says, sounding a little surprised. "She transferred there back home, too, but she managed to get both herself and Rei kicked out on her first real day."
[13:25] <Rei-chan> "She did?" Ami asks, surprised.
[13:27] * Usagi-chan nods. "Combination of several things, actually," Usagi says with a slight grin. "She nearly got into a fight with another girl at T*A who'd confessed to Rei, mouthed off to a nun when she got caught, then argued with the headmaster when she and Rei got taken in to see him. During the whole thing Rei got so mad about what was going on that she accidentally set the headmaster's desk on fire," she giggles.
[13:28] <Rei-chan> "Oh, my!" Ami gasps. "Nothing like that happened here."
[13:33] * Usagi-chan shakes her head, smiling a bit. "That's actually part of what led to us finding the Deathbusters," she goes on. "Rei and Minako both applied and got accepted at Mugen, and Rei was actually inducted into the Witches. She was brainwashed just like everyone else, but she managed to figure out what was going on - and between her and Eudial, we managed to purify everyone that was left - except for Kaolinite and Hotaru."
[13:35] <Rei-chan> Ami winces. "Poor Rei-chan..." She's interrupted from going further by a soft beep from her computer, which gains her full attention. With practiced ease, the blue-haired genius flips it open and reads the results...
[13:35] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[13:35] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[13:36] <Rei-chan> "Oh, my..." Ami gasps. "It seems there are hundreds of daimons down there... and quite a few readings I'm really not sure what to make of..."
[13:39] <Usagi-chan> "Hmmm...?" Usagi moves over to get a look at Ami's computer. "What is it saying?"
[13:40] <Rei-chan> It's all gibberish to you. "Strange energy readings... and I'm not sure, but I suspect that," she gestures to a string of more gibberish, "Means some sort of dimensional anomaly."
[13:44] * Usagi-chan sighs. "It would make sense... Professor Tomoe is an expert on different dimensions and stuff like that. That's how he ended up getting possessed by Germatou for one, and he's the one who helped us get to Chibi Usa's dimension when we had to go there, too."
[13:45] <Rei-chan> "Well, I'm sure your world's Professor Tomoe is working to recover you... and if we can reason with the Deathbusters before you go home, then perhaps they'll help from this end?"
[13:52] <Usagi-chan> "We can try it," Usagi says. "If you're detecting full grown daimons down there, though, they're a lot further along than they were at home - it may not be easy to get rid of Germatou. But I know we've got to try."
[13:53] <Rei-chan> "Considering the alternative..." Ami says softly.
[13:56] * Usagi-chan nods. "I know," she says softly. "I'll help you all as much as I can, since it seems like I might be stuck here for a while. The question is, where do we want to go from here?"
[13:59] <Rei-chan> Ami glances over at Mugen, irritation plain on her face. "We have to do something. Mugen is respected as one of the best schools in Japan. Having it as the base of our enemy is..." she trails off angrily, rather than saying something rude.
[14:00] <Usagi-chan> "I know," Usagi says. "But the question is, how do we want to do this? Do we charge straight in, or do we want to do something like picking off and purifying the Witches when they show up for Heart Snatches first?"
[14:03] <Rei-chan> Ami turns to give you a calculating look. "You did say you know them all, right?"
[14:03] * Usagi-chan nods. "I do."
[14:05] <Rei-chan> "Well, instead of going into Mugen, or trying to reason with them at a Heart Snatch while a daimon attacks us, why not go to their homes?"
[14:07] <Usagi-chan> "That could work," Usagi says, nodding. "I only know where Eudial and Tellu live, though - the others were all at Mugen when they were purified."
[14:08] <Rei-chan> "Well, perhaps they'd help us get the addresses of the others?" Ami suggests.
[14:14] <Usagi-chan> "That should work," Usagi agrees. "I know where the Twins live, too - but we're going to have to be REALLY careful with them, they're definitely the strongest of the Witches outside of Kaolinite. And I'm not actually sure what to do about her... she was actually killed back home, and I'm not sure if she would have been able to be purified, from what the Professor told me later."
[14:15] <Rei-chan> Ami nods. "Kaolinite's the one we've encountered most often."
[14:17] <Usagi-chan> "Anyway, I don't know what kind of hours they keep now," Usagi says. "Tellu should be easy to catch at home after school, I expect, but Eudial likes to go out and party a lot - she might not be home until late."
[14:17] <Rei-chan> "We'll figure something out," Ami affirms. "Better than fighting them on their own terms."
[14:18] <Usagi-chan> "I can't argue with that," Usagi agrees, sipping at her now-cold tea. "And it'll be one less thing for all of you to worry about, too."
[14:24] <Rei-chan> And so, the day passes. Spending the morning and early afternoon in the cafe with Ami isn't the most exciting thing in the world, especially once your companion starts working on homework, but it isn't too bad, Finally it comes time for school to let out, a few teenagers in Mugen uniforms already going past the cafe...
[14:27] * Usagi-chan keeps a sharp eye out, both visually and with her more esoteric senses, trying to pick people out of the crowd of students leaving the school - most notably Haruka or any of the Witches.
[14:28] * Ana-bank is now known as Celcia
[14:28] <Rei-chan> Your senses pick out Haruka fairly easily, coming rather quickly. Gosh! And there she goes, racing right past the cafe on her motorcycle...
[14:31] <Usagi-chan> "There goes Haruka," Usagi says quietly as the masculine blonde zooms past the cafe. "We can stop by her apartment in a few minutes." Remaining alert, she looks for any of the Witches to exit as well, although she's aware that they may stay later than most students do.
[14:32] <Rei-chan> A few minutes pass, throngs of Mugen students walking past... As the numbers begin to taper off, a distinctive flash of silver hair catches your eye - Viluy walking along the other side of the road, and looking rather tired as she covers a yawn with her hand.
[14:34] * Usagi-chan gets out of her seat quietly, keeping a fix on Viluy with her aura sense as she motions to Ami. "There goes Viluy... we might be able to follow her home, if we're careful about it," she says quietly. "That'll be one more we don't have to track down later."
[14:36] <Rei-chan> Ami nods, following you and looking out at the many Mugen students walking along. "Which one's Viluy?" she asks.
[14:37] <Usagi-chan> "The girl with the silver hair, about a block ahead of us," Usagi replies. "She's actually a senshi now, back at home."
[14:38] <Rei-chan> "What?" Ami asks in surprise, marking said girl with her eyes. "How is that possible?"
[14:41] <Usagi-chan> "It's one of my duties as the Queen," Usagi replies. "I can appoint replacements for senshi that have died. Neptune died back during the Silver Millenium - which you might already have known - and I appointed Viluy to take the position."
[14:42] <Rei-chan> Ami nods as the pair of you turn the corner - Viluy is standing at the bus stop with a few other Mugen students about fifty metres away. "Yes, I heard about what Oxyite did..."
[14:43] * Usagi-chan nods, holding a finger to her lips as the two approach the bus stop to wait with Viluy and the other students.
[14:46] <Rei-chan> Ami keeps quiet and the pair of you attract no undue attention as the bus pulls up. Stepping aboard, Viluy shows the driver her pass, going to sit down... Ami climbs on after the last of the Mugen students, paying for two day passes.
[14:46] * Usagi-chan nods to the driver as she boards the bus behind Ami, taking a seat close to the rear - behind Viluy, if she can.
[14:47] <Rei-chan> Viluy is seated by herself near the middle, and you and Ami manage to get one a few places behind her as the bus pulls out...
[14:48] * Usagi-chan keeps fairly quiet on the trip, studying Viluy's aura for the signs of the Deathbusters' influence - mainly to see how pervasive it is.
[14:49] <Rei-chan> OOC: soul check
[14:49] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[14:49] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[14:50] <Rei-chan> Doesn't look very nice. Her pale-blue aura is stained with rivulets of darkness running through it, and that distinctive 'fuzzing' is clearly noticable around her head.
[14:51] * Usagi-chan frowns just a bit, nodding to herself as the trip goes on.
[14:52] <Rei-chan> After four stops, Viluy stands up and heads to the front. You're in a posh residential area on the northern fringes of Juuban.
[14:53] * Usagi-chan stands as well, following Viluy off the bus. Rather than be too obvious by following the silver-haired girl away from the stop, however, she turns in the opposite direction, merely keeping a fix on Viluy with her aura senses.
[14:54] <Rei-chan> "Usagi-chan?" Ami asks curiously, following you while glancing back at Viluy.
[14:55] <Usagi-chan> "I'm still 'following' her, Ami-chan," Usagi replies, pausing for a few moments while she waits for Viluy to stop moving around so much.
[14:56] <Rei-chan> A few minutes pass, Ami looking rather anxious, until Viluy comes to a stop. She's about a block away from where you are, give or take.
[14:56] * Usagi-chan nods once, starting to head in Viluy's direction once again. "She's either home or she's stopped to get something to eat," Usagi says as she begins to walk again.
[14:57] <Rei-chan> Walking along, you come within sight of where you can sense Viluy. It's a nice looking house, about half again as big as your own, with a well kept garden out front.
[14:59] <Usagi-chan> "This is the place," Usagi says, looking up at the house. "We can take care of her now if you want - I expect we could do it the same way we took care of Tellu back home. But it's up to you - we can wait and come back with more of the others if you'd rather not risk it now."
[14:59] <Rei-chan> "You seem to have more experience here, Usagi-chan," Ami shrugs. "I'll defer to your judgement."
[15:03] * Usagi-chan thinks for a moment. "I think we can go ahead and give it a try," she says after a moment. "It'll be a little tricky though. I'll transform and wait out of sight of the front door, and what I'll need you to do is get her to answer the door. Once she does, you move out of the way and I'll purify her."
[15:04] <Rei-chan> "Sounds deceptively simple..." Ami observes. "Okay," she nods, nonetheless, and makes her way to the door.
[15:06] * Usagi-chan stands out of sight from the road, transforming quietly before she conceals herself in the bushes near the front door of the house.
[15:06] * Usagi-chan is now known as Sailor_Moon
[15:07] <Rei-chan> As you do so, Ami knocks on the door. A moment passes before Viluy answers. "Yes? Can I help you?" she asks impatiently, looking Ami over with a critical eye.
[15:11] * Sailor_Moon moves quickly, taking an angle that doesn't have Ami screening Viluy from the doorway. Motioning quickly with her staff, she cries out her attack before releasing it. "Moon Healing... Escalation!"
[15:11] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[15:12] <Rei-chan> Healing energy washes over the wall just above Viluy's doorway, said girl looking over in surprise. "Sailor Moon?!" she gasps, shoving Ami aside and quickly moving into the garden where she has more room to maneuvre.
[15:12] <Rei-chan> OOC: init
[15:12] <Rei-chan> roll 2#1d6
[15:12] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2#1d6 and gets 4, 2."
[15:14] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[15:14] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 14."
[15:15] * Sailor_Moon makes no reply, simply maintaining the flow of healing energy as she tries to redirect it towards the brainwashed student.
[15:15] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[15:15] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 12."
[15:16] <Rei-chan> Redirecting the flow, you misjudge Viluy's new position. Those flowers will probably get a lovely growth spurt out of this, at least.
[15:17] <Rei-chan> "I don't know how you found me, Sailor Moon, but you'll regret messing with the Deathbusters!" Rolling up her sleeve reveals her distinctive nanobot bracelet, and with a cry of "Witches Viluy Mosaic Buster!" she releases a stream of nanobots at the blonde fighter of love and justice!
[15:17] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:17] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[15:17] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[15:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[15:18] <Rei-chan> Nimbly ducking as the nanobots pass overhead, Moon avoids serious injury!
[15:18] <Rei-chan> Looking decidedly put out, Ami produces her own henshin pen, crying out "Mercury Power, Make Up!" as she transforms in a swirl of icy water!
[15:18] <Rei-chan> OOC: init
[15:19] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[15:19] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 15."
[15:19] <Rei-chan> roll 2#1d6
[15:19] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2#1d6 and gets 5, 3."
[15:20] * Sailor_Moon bites off a particularly nasty Lunarian curse as she tries to catch Viluy in her attack, still holding the powerful purification energy. "This is for your own good, Viluy!" she shouts, sweeping it towards the Witch once more!
[15:20] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[15:20] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[15:20] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:20] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[15:21] <Rei-chan> This time Viluy doesn't dodge, being bathed in colourful waves of energy...
[15:21] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:21] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[15:22] <Rei-chan> With a gasp, the girl slumps to her knees, clutching her head, and you can see Germatou's influence leaving her aura, leaving pure pale-blue in its wake.
[15:25] * Sailor_Moon takes a deep sigh as she sees the brainwashing effect leave Viluy. Lowering her staff, she approaches the silver haired girl cautiously. "Are you all right, Viluy?" she asks.
[15:25] <Rei-chan> "Ugh..." she groans, "What the hell..." she shakes her head, reassimilating memories without the benefit of Germatou's imposed perspective.
[15:27] * Sailor_Moon places a hand on Viluy's shoulder. "Just take it easy, Viluy - you've been brainwashed. You've been working with Germatou trying to find the Talismans, haven't you?"
[15:28] <Rei-chan> "Germatou?" she gives you a look of noncomprehension. "It was Professor Tomoe... and the Mistress..." she gives her head another shake, "What have I been doing all this time?"
[15:29] <Sailor_Moon> "Working for the wrong side," Usagi replies with a sigh, patting the older girl on the back. "You should be all right now, though."
[15:30] <Rei-chan> Ami comes over, detransforming. "Is she okay, now?"
[15:30] <Rei-chan> Viluy, meanwhile, staggers to her feet. "It was that damn injection... he did it to the others as well..."
[15:32] * Sailor_Moon glances over at Ami. "I think so," she nods. "I know he did, Viluy, and we want to help the others, too. But we could use your help to do it."
[15:33] <Rei-chan> Viluy winces, rubbing her head. "Sure. Anything to get back at that bastard for what he's done."
[15:34] * Sailor_Moon shakes her head. "It's not Professor Tomoe's fault either, Viluy. He's possessed himself. We've got to help him, too."
[15:35] <Rei-chan> "I guess..." Viluy nods, still seeming a little dazed. "We're all just lackeys of the Mistress..."
[15:36] * Sailor_Moon shakes her head. "Another possession, sorry," she says with a slight smile. "Ami, can you call the others and tell them to meet us at the Shrine as soon as they can? We'd better start planning now before Germatou notices something wrong with Viluy."
[15:39] <Rei-chan> "Of course," Ami nods, taking out her communicator and doing just that.
[15:39] <Rei-chan> "What the hell WERE we looking for those stupid talismans for, anyway?" Viluy asks, confused as she continues trying to sort things out.
[15:40] <Sailor_Moon> "Germatou wants to use them to summon a being that would more or less destroy the world," Usagi says with a sigh. "He actually CAN'T find all the talismans, but he doesn't know that."
[15:41] <Rei-chan> Viluy chokes a bit on that. "Destroy the world? Gah... and I was helping him..."
[15:43] <Sailor_Moon> "Don't be too hard on yourself, Viluy," Usagi says gently. "You were brainwashed, and you didn't really know what you were doing. We'll get everything straightened out, though."
[15:45] <Rei-chan> "I guess..." Viluy sighs as Ami talks into her communicator in the background. "You Sailor Senshi are definitely better than we were giving you credit for..."
[15:47] * Sailor_Moon smiles a bit. "We try," she answers. "There's a lot to be said for working together, and I know the Witches don't do that much."
[15:49] <Rei-chan> Viluy snorts. "Seems like you know us pretty well, Sailor Moon."
[15:49] <Rei-chan> "I've contacted all the others - they'll probably all reach the Shrine before us even if we take the bus," Ami offers, pocketing her communicator.
[15:54] <Sailor_Moon> "I can get us there a lot quicker," Usagi tells Ami. Giving Viluy a smile, "You could say I'm cheating a bit - I've got some inside information, but explaining HOW I got it would be a long story." She giggles a bit at that. "Anyway, if you're ready, we can go to meet the rest of the senshi now."
[15:55] <Rei-chan> "Uh, hold on," Viluy mutters, going over to close her front door and lock it. "Anyway, yeah... I'm ready," she confirms, coming back.
[15:55] * Sailor_Moon nods once before beckoning Ami over a bit closer and teleporting the three to the main room of the Hikawa Shrine.
[15:56] <Rei-chan> The pair both seem a bit surprised, but not unduly so. "You can teleport by yourself?" Ami asks. "Isn't that terribly draining?"
[15:57] * Sailor_Moon shakes her head. "Not as much as you'd think," Usagi replies. "I do it magically, not through my senshi powers - it takes a lot less power that way."
[15:59] <Rei-chan> "It's a handy trick," Viluy nods, looking around. The living room of Rei's home is currently unoccupied...
[15:59] <Sailor_Moon> "Guess we're the first to arrive," Usagi says, glancing around the room. "Did the others say where they were?"
[16:01] <Rei-chan> Ami shakes her head. "I could see Rei was in her room. Makoto and Minako were both outside - probably walking home from school."
[16:02] <Sailor_Moon> "Rei's here?" she says, detransforming as she heads over to the miko's room.
[16:36] <Ebiris> Neither Ami nor Viluy stop you as you leave the living room, Rei's bedroom just across the hall...
[16:39] * Usagi-chan knocks on the door to Rei's room, wondering what she's going to say to the miko.
[16:41] <Ebiris> "Just a minute," Rei's voice calls back, rustling sounds coming from within. A minute later, "Come in."
[16:42] <Usagi-chan> "Rei-chan?" Usagi says, stepping inside the room.
[16:45] <Ebiris> The white-haired girl, now dressed in miko robes with her school uniform folded on her bed, winces almost imperceptibly as she sees you. "Hello... Usagi," she says, voice a soft whisper as she distractedly pulls up the collar of her loose robes. "I thought you were with Ami across town?"
[16:46] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly. "We took a shortcut to get here... it would have taken a little too long to walk." She takes a seat on the edge of Rei's bed, looking up at the haggard miko. "Got a few minutes to talk?"
[16:47] <Ebiris> "I..." Rei looks a bit conflicted, "The others will be here, soon. I should get things ready."
[16:48] * Usagi-chan pats the bed, giving the girl a wan smile. "Come on, sit down for a minute. I can help you get things ready when we're done."
[16:50] <Ebiris> With a sigh, Rei sits down on the bed, studiously not looking in your direction. "What did you want to talk about?"
[16:52] * Usagi-chan glances down at her lap for a moment, then turns to face Rei. "I don't know how to say this nicely, so I'm just going to be blunt. Rei, you look absolutely miserable."
[16:55] <Ebiris> The miko flinches at that, but doesn't refute the point, only staring down at her own lap.
[16:57] * Usagi-chan sighs at the lack of reaction from Rei. "What's wrong?" she asks intently. "I mean, I can understand being upset for a while about losing her, but you don't have to stay there," the blonde says plaintively. "I definitely hate seeing you like this, and I imagine she feels exactly the same way. Why are you still so upset?"
[17:00] <Ebiris> Rei snorts. "Why am I upset?" she repeats softly. "I'm a monster, Usagi. I don't know what happened in your world, but here..." she shakes her head, clamming up. "It's not something I should talk about." Her face set, Rei stands up, making to leave the room...
[17:01] * Usagi-chan grabs Rei's hand, preventing her from leaving. "I know what happened to you, Rei-chan - I knew it the moment I saw you," Usagi says. "It doesn't make you a monster." She gives Rei's hand a squeeze, pulling her back towards the bed.
[17:06] <Ebiris> Rei stops, but doesn't let herself be pulled back, turning, she regards you levelly, although long experience lets you know she's just a shade away from cracking. "I killed hundreds, maybe thousands, Usagi. And I liked it," she says stiffly, pain all too obvious just below the surface. "And Usagi... she brought them all back."
[17:06] <Ebiris> A tiny choking noise escapes her throat, leaving even her looking surprised as she goes on, "She killed herself to bring them back," she concludes softly, pale violet eyes glistening with unshed tears.
[17:08] * Usagi-chan takes Rei's other hand, gazing into the miko's sorrowful eyes with a serious expression. "And look at what you're doing with that gift," she says softly. "She did it for you, Rei-chan.... and you're throwing it away. She wanted you to be able to live a happy life again WITHOUT having to carry that weight around. Why are you still beating yourself up over it?"
[17:10] <Ebiris> "Always so naive..." Rei murmurs, looking away. "What kind of person would I be if I could forget something like that?"
[17:12] <Usagi-chan> "I didn't say you had to forget it," Usagi says, shaking her head a bit. "But remembering what happened DOESN'T mean you have to keep punishing yourself for what happened. Yes, what happened was horrible... but it never happened now. The only place any of those things happened anymore is just in our memories - that's why Usagi did what she did."
[17:16] <Ebiris> "I never asked her to!" Rei retorts weakly, but with an undertone of desperation. "I was meant to protect her, dammit..." she goes on, starting to cry, now.
[17:19] * Usagi-chan stands, wrapping her arms around Rei. "No, you didn't ask her to," she says gently. "It's what she wanted to do for you." She strokes Rei's back gently as the miko sobs. "Just let it out, Rei-chan," she says quietly, feeling tears sting the corners of her own eyes.
[17:21] <Ebiris> Rei collapses completely into your embrace, feeling a good deal lighter than the miko you know. "It should have been me," she sobs. "She was never meant to die..."
[17:22] <Usagi-chan> "And you deserve to live just as much as she did," Usagi says quietly, rubbing Rei's back gently. "That's what she wanted for you."
[17:25] <Ebiris> Rei doesn't reply, just clinging onto you as she continues crying, seeking absolution for her stained soul in your comforting embrace.
[17:26] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes, stroking the back of Rei's head gently as she holds the grieving girl in her arms. "Just let it go, Rei-chan," she whispers.
[17:28] <Ebiris> As you hold Rei, a slight breeze accompanies the sound of her room's outside door opening. "Rei-chan?" comes a stunned whisper from behind you.
[17:30] * Usagi-chan sighs, but doesn't release the miko. "We'll be out in just a minute, Minako," Usagi says.
[17:32] <Ebiris> Minako comes into view, ignoring you for now as she puts a hand on Rei's shoulder. "Rei-chan? What's going on?" she asks intently.
[17:32] <Ebiris> Said miko looks up, parting from you with clear reluctance. "I was just..." she begins, faltering under the look Minako is giving her.
[17:33] * Usagi-chan turns to give Minako a flat look. "She was doing something she's needed to do for a long time," she says evenly. "Grieve."
[17:37] <Ebiris> Minako scowls at you, golden eyes glittering with anger. "She's been grieving for months. I've been helping her," she glances briefly at the sniffling white-haired girl, "Right, Rei-chan?"
[17:37] <Ebiris> Rei nods weakly, trying to dash at her tears and compose herself.
[17:39] * Usagi-chan simply shakes her head. "She hasn't, Minako... all I have to do is look at her and I can see that," she says softly. "You grieve to work through your pain - not to ignore it or forget about it. You make peace with what happened."
[17:40] <Ebiris> "Kind of hard to make peace with your death when you're standing right in front of me," Minako observes, tone dripping with sarcasm.
[17:43] <Usagi-chan> "You know I'm not from this world," Usagi says levelly. "I'm not the one who died - I can't stay here, I have my own world to go home to."
[17:47] <Ebiris> "Then you should stop butting into things that have nothing to do with you," Minako concludes. "Tell her, Rei-chan."
[17:47] <Ebiris> "Uhn?" Rei looks up, not really having been following the conversation.
[17:47] <Ebiris> Minako grits her teeth. "Tell her to stop butting into our lives, Rei-chan," she says sternly, taking Rei's hand in her own. "We're happy without her messing things up."
[17:50] <Usagi-chan> "If you think she's happy you're blind!" Usagi shouts, pointing at Rei. "Anyone who can see her can see she's not happy - and I can't stand by and let her be miserable! I don't want it to be true, but it is - and if I can do something to change that, I will!"
[17:51] <Ebiris> "You're only making her more miserable!" Minako yells back. "You think I'm stupid? I saw her crying, just now!"
[17:53] <Usagi-chan> "And she's NEEDED to cry!" Usagi retorts. "She HAS to let out all the grief and sorrow she's been feeling for so long," Usagi says, tears showing in her own eyes. "You can't just ignore it and pretend it never happened. Let her cry, Minako - it's what she needs to do," she finishes softly.
[17:55] <Ebiris> "No!" Minako grabs Rei's arm, pulling her close. "Rei-chan isn't sad when she's with me! She doesn't need to cry!" For her part, Rei just looks immensely depressed to be caught in the middle, here, cringing with nearly every word.
[17:57] <Usagi-chan> "You can't force her to be happy, Minako - it doesn't work like that." Usagi shakes her head. "Have you asked her what SHE wants?"
[17:59] <Ebiris> "Tell her, Rei-chan!" Minako insists once more, a desperate, pleading edge in her voice.
[17:59] <Ebiris> "I..." Rei looks up at Minako, before turning in your direction, although not meeting your eyes, "I'm fine. Can we please stop this?" she asks quietly.
[18:00] <Usagi-chan> "Rei-chan, look at me," Usagi says calmly.
[18:01] <Ebiris> Rei hesitantly looks up, the pain in her violet eyes sending a silent message, pleading for you to let the matter drop.
[18:03] * Usagi-chan gazes deep into Rei's eyes, speaking directly to the white-haired girl. "What do you want, Rei-chan?" she asks quietly. "Not what you think I or Minako wants to hear - what do YOU want?"
[18:05] <Ebiris> "I just... I just want to forget about this..." she says softly. "I'm not worth arguing about like this."
[18:05] <Ebiris> "Rei-chan!" Minako gasps, shocked, "You're worth it, to me!"
[18:06] <Usagi-chan> "You ARE worth it, Rei-chan... and not for Minako. You're worth it just for who you are." Usagi says seriously.
[18:08] <Ebiris> "No I'm not!" Rei sobs, pulling free of Minako's grip and darting for the still open door. Minako hesitates, stunned for a moment, before she starts after the already departed miko.
[18:09] * Usagi-chan sighs, following at a slower pace as she uses her aura sense to track the miko.
[18:10] <Ebiris> Aura sense is hardly needed. You can see Rei stumbling just at the Torii, while Minako is already rushing across the courtyard.
[18:12] * Usagi-chan quickens her steps... she has absolutely no confidence in Minako's ability to truly comfort the heartsick Rei.
[18:13] <Ebiris> Rei has barely taken two steps down the stairs before Minako catches up, grabbing the miko in a fierce hug, which Rei collapses bonelessly into.
[18:15] * Usagi-chan shakes her head as she comes up behind Minako, standing in plain view of Rei should she lift her head.
[18:19] <Ebiris> Given that she's currently wishing the ground would open up and swallow her, Rei does not look up. She simply remains inert in the silver-haired girl's arms. "Rei-chan, why did you run away?" she asks. Seeing no response, she goes on, "Don't let her get to you like that," she whispers soothingly, "She's not your Usagi. She doesn't know what she's talking about."
[18:21] <Usagi-chan> "I know exactly what I'm talking about," Usagi says, not bothering to hide her presence. "I'm not blind - I can see what's going on here."
[18:22] <Ebiris> Both Rei and Minako start slightly, the latter turning around while still holding her fragile girlfriend against her. "You don't understand!" she accuses, "You don't know what we've been through since Usagi died!"
[18:26] * Ana-away is now known as Anastasia
[18:26] <Usagi-chan> "I don't need to," Usagi says, giving Minako a level stare. "I can see the way things are right now - I'd have to be blind not to see what's wrong here."
[18:27] <Ebiris> "You're wrong!" Minako denies hotly. "Rei-chan and I are happy together! Stop trying to ruin it!"
[18:29] <Usagi-chan> "There's nothing to ruin, Minako!" Usagi retorts. "The only happiness here is inside your own head - Rei sure isn't happy, and it has NOTHING to do with the fact that I'm here now."
[18:31] <Ebiris> "Please," Rei's quiet voice, muffled by Minako's shoulder, intrudes. "Stop fighting, please."
[18:32] * Usagi-chan shakes her head, turning her attention to what's more important in her eyes - Rei's wellbeing. "I'm sorry, Rei-chan. I only want to help you - do you want me to help?"
[18:35] <Ebiris> Minako tightens her grip, and Rei takes a very long moment to reply. "No... I'm fine. I don't need any help." Managing to extricate herself from Minako, she stands with as much dignity as she can muster. "I don't need any help," she repeats, "I've managed until now, and I'll keep managing."
[18:40] <Usagi-chan> "That's a lie, and you know it," Usagi says bluntly. "You're not managing, you're just scraping by. Is that how you want to keep living?" She sighs, deflating a bit. "I can't bring Usagi back to you," she says quietly. "But I can try to help you deal with what happened if you'll let me. I can't force you.to let me help you, though - it has to be your decision."
[18:43] <Ebiris> "If I suffer, it's because I earned it," Rei says softly, hanging her head. "Besides, when I'm with Minako, it's easier," she smiles at the silver-haired girl, quite clearly lying to Usagi's eyes.
[18:43] <Ebiris> Minako seems to take the words at face value, however. "Oh, Rei-chan..."
[18:50] * Usagi-chan fixes Rei with a firm gaze. "If you don't want my help, fine. But don't lie to me like that." Reaching over to the miko, she gently turns the white-haired girl's face towards her own, not letting her look away. "You still haven't answered my question. If you don't want help, all you have to do is say so and honestly mean it, and I'll let it go at that. Do you want to talk?" she asks again.
[18:53] <Ebiris> Rei sighs softly, pulling her head back and looking down. "Just let it go, Usagi. Please."
[18:54] <Usagi-chan> "Then look me in the eye and say you don't want to talk about it," Usagi replies. "That's all it'll take."
[18:55] <Ebiris> Surprisingly enough, she does that with little difficulty. "I don't want to talk about it," she says honestly, meeting your gaze.
[18:59] * Usagi-chan can't hide the disappointment on her face, but she nods to Rei. "Then I won't ask again," she says quietly. "If you change your mind, all you have to do is ask, though." With a heartfelt sigh, she turns back towards the Shrine. "Let's go," she says dully. "We have business to take care of."
[19:00] <Ebiris> Entering the living room with Minako and Rei a little behind you, you are met by Ami and Viluy, both looking a little nervous. "Uh, hi..." Ami waves lamely, "Just waiting on Mako-chan, now..."
[19:00] <Ebiris> "Who're you?" Rei bluntly asks Viluy.
[19:01] <Usagi-chan> "She used to be one of the Deathbusters," Usagi says tiredly. "Ami-chan helped me purify her earlier this afternoon."
[19:02] <Ebiris> "Viluy," the other silver-haired girl supplies, glancing a little embarrassedly between the recently arrived trio.
[07:32] <Ebiris> "You're one of those Witches like Kaolinite and Mimette?" Minako asks, putting the past few minutes behind her for now. "How many of you are there?"
[07:33] <Usagi-chan> "Six in total, counting Kaolinite - although with Viluy here, I suppose it's five now," Usagi says with a slight smile.
[07:34] <Ebiris> "Uh, there's me, Kaolinite, Mimette, Eudial, Tellu, Cyprine, Ptliol, The Professor, and the Mistress," Viluy lists them off. "And all the daimons - I don't even know how many of them there are exactly," she admits.
[07:36] <Ebiris> Minako nods, digesting that. "Okay, so where's your base and what kind of weaknesses do they have that we can take advantage of?"
[07:37] * Usagi-chan sits back for the moment, allowing Minako to do the talking.
[07:37] <Ebiris> "It's at Mugen Gakuen," Ami pipes up. "Usagi-chan and I went there earlier before we followed Viluy-san to her home."
[07:49] <Ebiris> "I'm not really sure what weaknesses could help," Viluy says apologetically. "I mean, I don't really get on that well with the other Witches, so I only have a general idea of what they're all capable of." She shrugs, "Mimette and Tellu are both pretty useless in any fight by themselves, I can tell you that. Of course, that's what daimons are for..."
[07:50] <Usagi-chan> "I can probably fill in a bit there, except with Mimette," Usagi adds. "I know what most of the others can do."
[07:51] <Ebiris> At that, the door opens to admit Makoto. "Hey, guys," she waves cheerfully, before blinking. "Who's the new girl?"
[07:52] <Usagi-chan> "This is Viluy," Usagi tells the tall brunette. "She used to be with the Deathbusters, but Ami-chan and I purified her a little while ago and now we're talking about what to do for the others."
[07:53] <Ebiris> "Oh," Makoto blinks again. "Nice to meet you, then," she essays a smile at the older (but shorter) girl.
[07:54] <Ebiris> "Well," Minako speaks up, "If the Deathbusters are based at Mugen, what are we waiting for? I think we should go there now and take care of them." She nods emphatically, Rei beside her taking a moment before following Minako's lead, albeit in her characteristically subdued manner.
[07:56] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "That's a bad idea. Most of the Witches are pretty powerful on their own, and charging right into the middle of all of them and God only knows how many daimons isn't exactly what I'd call wise. With Viluy's help, I think we can do what we did for her - visit the Witches at their homes and purify them individually. It'll be a lot easier to catch them off guard that way, rather than get caught up in a huge fight."
[07:58] <Ebiris> Ami nods supportively. "It's the safest way, and it gains us more allies for when we DO have to go up against the daimons at Mugen."
[07:59] <Ebiris> Viluy looks thoughtful for a moment. "I guess we can try that. I do know everyone else's addresses, even if I've never visited their homes."
[08:00] * Usagi-chan smiles. "I think your house and Mimette's place are the only two I've never visited. I've been to Tellu's house, and the Twins' and Eudial's apartments before - although only once for Eudial and Tellu."
[08:05] <Ebiris> Viluy nods. "I just checked their addresses in the database in case I ever needed to know..." her expression clouds momentarily, before shaking it off. "Anyway, we're at Hikawa Shrine, right? I think Eudial's place is the closest to here, although it's about a half hour walk."
[08:07] <Ebiris> "Then let's go," Minako nods decisively. "The sooner we get this dealt with, the better."
[08:08] * Usagi-chan nods, rising. "I doubt this will be too much trouble as long as we don't show up at their doors in a huge crowd. Probably I'll be the only one who needs to transform - it doesn't take much to purify them."
[08:11] <Ebiris> --------
[08:12] <Ebiris> The walk to Eudial's apartment goes without incident, Rei and Minako hanging back and keeping themselves slightly seperate from the rest of you. Outside the building, Eudial's familiar station-wagon is parked. "So, are you just going to go in and knock on her door like you did for me?" Viluy asks.
[08:14] * Usagi-chan nods. "That's the plan," Usagi agrees. "I'd like it to be Rei to knock here, though, if she doesn't mind?" She glances back at the white-haired miko.
[08:14] <Ebiris> Said miko blinks in confusion. "Why me?"
[08:16] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "If you don't want to that's fine, but I think it would be a good idea. Rei is probably Eudial's closest friend back home, although I know this definitely isn't the way they got introduced there."
[08:18] <Ebiris> Rei shrugs, "I guess..." she mutters, walking towards you while Minako sends nasty looks your way. "So, what? I just knock and then grab her when she answers the door so you can purify her?"
[08:19] <Usagi-chan> "Just get her to answer the door and hopefully come out into the hallway, if you can. I'll just pop out and purify her as soon as I can get a clear shot at her." With that, Usagi takes hold of her brooch. "Moon Purity Power, Make UP!"
[08:20] * Usagi-chan is now known as Sailor_Moon
[08:21] <Ebiris> "Okay..." Rei replies, heading inside and towards the apartment number Viluy gave you all.
[08:21] <Ebiris> "Good luck, Rei-chan," Ami calls.
[08:21] * Sailor_Moon follows Rei inside, staying a few paces behind the miko.
[08:21] <Ebiris> Reaching the correct door, Rei sends a questioning look your way, raising her hand to knock.
[08:22] * Sailor_Moon gives Rei a nod, readying her staff.
[08:24] <Ebiris> Rei knocks on the door, and a moment later it opens to reveal a short-ish thirtysomething woman with brown/red hair, wearing oil-stained pants and an old Nekomi Tech sweater. "Yes?" she asks, giving the miko at her door a curious look.
[08:25] * Sailor_Moon frowns a bit, but waits - Rei should be able to tell that this isn't who they're looking for.
[08:25] <Ebiris> "Um... are you Eudial?" Rei asks hesitantly, having expected somebody Viluy's age.
[08:26] <Ebiris> Ms Kawashima laughs. "I don't know whether to be flattered or insulted. What do you want my daughter for anyway, miss...?"
[08:27] <Ebiris> "Hino," Rei supplies automatically, before flinching. "Uh, is Eudial here?"
[08:27] * Sailor_Moon silently encourages Rei. 'You're doing fine, Rei-chan,' she thinks.
[08:29] <Ebiris> Shaking her head, Eudial's mother turns around, looking into the apartment. "Hey, Eudial! You've got a visitor!" she calls.
[08:29] <Ebiris> A moment later the younger redhead shows up at the door, dressed in black sweatpants and a red shirt. "Huh?" She looks Rei over, somewhat like a bug under a microscope. "Who're you?"
[08:30] <Sailor_Moon> "We're here to do some cleaning!" Usagi calls out, stepping out into view of the doorway. "Moon Healing Escalation!" she calls out, sending a wave of healing energy in Eudial's direction!
[08:30] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[08:30] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[08:30] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[08:30] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[08:31] <Ebiris> Caught flat-footed, Eudial is bathed in glowing waves of healing energy, as her mother looks on in surprise.
[08:31] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[08:31] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[08:31] <Ebiris> Swaying on her feet, the redhead gives a quiet gasp before slumping, unconscious.
[08:32] * Sailor_Moon lets the attack fade with a sigh, quickly rushing to Eudial's side to make sure she's all right - both physically and spiritually.
[08:33] <Ebiris> Her aura looks untainted, now. She just looks zonked out. "What the hell is going on?" Ms Kawashima yells, still standing by the doorway.
[08:34] <Sailor_Moon> "It's a long story, Ms. Kawashima - but I can tell you we're just here to help Eudial," Moon says, cradling Eudial's head in her lap. "And I'm happy to say it worked - she should be fine once she wakes up."
[08:35] <Ebiris> "She was fine a minute ago!" she replies hotly.
[08:36] <Sailor_Moon> "She was brainwashed a minute ago," Usagi says. "She's been working for a creature that wants to destroy the world because of that. Don't worry - she's not hurt, she's just out cold."
[08:37] <Ebiris> "What?!" the older woman finally registers your appearance. "Oh, God, you're one of those Sailor Senshi, aren't you? What's my idiot daughter gotten herself mixed up in, now?"
[08:38] <Sailor_Moon> "She didn't know," Usagi replies. "She was injected with something that made it hard for her to realize that what she's been doing is wrong."
[08:40] <Ebiris> "She's been doing drugs?!" Ms Kawashima gives her comatose daughter a mounrful look. "Oh, Eudial... I don't mind the drinking, but you really should know better."
[08:41] <Sailor_Moon> "Not drugs," Usagi replies. "It was an injection that someone else gave her, just once."
[08:41] <Ebiris> "Who? What's going on?" the plainly confused woman asks.
[08:41] * Sailor_Moon sighs. "Professor Tomoe at Mugen," Moon replies reluctantly. "It's a really long story."
[08:42] <Ebiris> She blinks. "Professor Tomoe? As in, Eudial's headmaster? As in, my boss?"
[08:43] * Sailor_Moon nods. "And it's not really HIS fault, either. He's been possessed by a monster himself - we're hoping we can get to him after we take care of Eudial and a few others."
[08:44] <Ebiris> "Aw geez..." Ms Kawashima doesn't look happy at all. "What a mess..."
[08:45] <Sailor_Moon> "Tell me about it," Moon says with a sigh. "But we'll have it sorted out soon, I hope." She gives the older woman a small smile. "Don't worry about it too much."
[08:46] <Ebiris> "I guess..." she shakes her head, lifting Eudial up with surprising ease for someone of her small frame. "So, what now?"
[08:48] <Sailor_Moon> "We wait for her to wake up," Usagi replies with a slight shrug. "Rei-chan, if you want to go down and bring the others up, it might be a good idea. I don't want to just leave Eudial like this though - knowing her, she's likely to charge straight into Mugen herself once she realizes what's happened, and she'd probably get herself killed if she did that."
[08:49] <Ebiris> Rei silently nods and walks off, while Ms Kawashima flinches at the mention of her daughter's possible demise. "I guess I'm forgetting my manners... won't you come in, Sailor... Moon?"
[08:50] <Sailor_Moon> "It's all right," Usagi says with a smile. "This isn't the way people usually introduce themselves, either." She follows Eudial's mother into the apartment, leaving the door open for the others.
[08:51] <Ebiris> Pushing the door open to Eudial's bedroom, the elder Kawashima deposits her slumbering daughter in the bed before exiting and closing the door behind her. "Can I get you anything to drink?"
[08:52] <Sailor_Moon> "That's all right - thank you, though." Usagi glances around for a place to sit.
[08:53] <Ebiris> There's a couch and an armchair around a low table, both facing the TV which is currently showing some game show or something. The older woman promptly turns the TV off, however.
[08:54] * Sailor_Moon takes a seat on the couch, taking a deep breath as she considers her position.
[08:58] <Ebiris> The other girls all file in a moment later, making the apartment seem rather crowded with 6 people all crammed into the fairly small living room. "Hi, Ms Kawashima," Viluy waves a little embarrassedly, prompting a sigh from the older woman.
[08:58] <Ebiris> "Hello, Viluy. Don't tell me you're involved in the same mess as Eudial?"
[08:59] <Sailor_Moon> "She was, but we've managed to help her, too," Usagi says with a smile.
[09:04] <Ebiris> A good half hour passes, explaining the situation to Eudial's mother before the redhead herself stumbles out of her room. "Gah..." she groans. "What the hell is going on?" she adds, blearily eyeing all the guests in her home.
[09:04] <Ebiris> A brief explanation later, and another former Witch has been added to your ranks...
[09:05] * Sailor_Moon nods as the group exits the apartment. "Alright, Viluy - who's next?"
[09:07] <Ebiris> "Kaolinite," Viluy answers, frowning. "She has an apartment about twenty minutes away," she gestures in the vague direction.
[09:09] * Sailor_Moon frowns, remembering what the Professor had told her about Kaolinite. "Unfortunately, I think we may have to wait on Kaolinite - I'm not sure she can be purified. What about the Twins? Their apartment isn't a lot further away than that."
[09:10] <Ebiris> Viluy frowns even more. "If you say so. I think theirs is over that way," she changes the direction of her vague gesture.
[09:11] <Sailor_Moon> "I know where it is - I've stayed there a few times." She smiles a bit at the memory of her time mindlinked with the pair as she heads off towards the Twins' apartment.
[09:11] <Ebiris> Everyone else falls in behind you, and you reach the apartment complex without incident...
[09:13] * Sailor_Moon heads right up to the Twins' apartment, motioning for Viluy to come with her to knock.
[09:14] <Ebiris> Viluy does so without protest, as the pair of you approach Cyprine and Ptliol's home. (soul check, +3)
[09:16] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+3
[09:16] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+3 and gets 12."
[09:17] <Ebiris> Stopping at the door, Viluy glances questioningly at you, raising her hand to knock.
[09:18] <Sailor_Moon> "Be careful, Viluy," Usagi says, nodding to the other girl as she stands out of sight.
[09:20] <Ebiris> Viluy knocks, and as soon as her hand touches the door, there is a burst of daimonic energy. The wooden door warping and twisting as it rips off its hinges, contorting into a female humanoid figure with a large door-like shield over its right forearm and its right hand replaced by a set of nasty looking jagged keys. "Doorknobodder!" it cries, rushing Viluy!
[09:20] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[09:20] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[09:20] <Ebiris> But stumbles and misses as the silver-haired girl steps back in alarm.
[09:20] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[09:21] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[09:21] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 15."
[09:21] <Ebiris> roll 2#1d6
[09:21] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2#1d6 and gets 3, 5."
[09:22] * Sailor_Moon scowls - she should have seen this coming. With a fierce cry, she levels her staff at the daimon. "Moon Princess Hallation!" she shouts, releasing a powerful torrent of magical energy towards the daimon!
[09:22] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[09:22] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[09:22] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[09:22] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[09:24] <Ebiris> Still focusing on Viluy, the creature is unable to offer much defence as the magical energy crashes into it, sending it skidding several yards down the corridor, but still in fighting shape!
[09:25] <Ebiris> Viluy scowls, rolling up her sleeve. "As if a daimon has any chance against one of the Witches 5?!" Thrusting her arm forward, she cries out "Mosaic Buster, go!" and releases a stram of nanobots at the genetically engineered magical mutant.
[09:25] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[09:25] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[09:25] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[09:25] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 7."
[09:25] <Ebiris> This time the daimon is quick enough to react, raising up its 'door-shield' which the nanobots spatter harmlessly off of!
[09:26] <Ebiris> Still with the shield up, it cries "Doorknobboder Press!" and rushes Viluy once more!
[09:26] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[09:26] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[09:26] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[09:26] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 10."
[09:26] <Ebiris> Slow to react, Viluy is caught by the attack and crushed against the wall, giving a pained gasp.
[09:27] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[09:27] <Ebiris> roll 2#1d6
[09:27] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2#1d6 and gets 1, 6."
[09:27] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 for rejuv
[09:27] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for rejuv and gets 7."
[09:28] <Ebiris> Still caught between the daimon and the wall, Viluy grunts as she pushes to maneuvre her braceleted arm up to point at the creature's face. "Mosaic Buster!"
[09:28] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[09:28] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 13."
[09:28] <Ebiris> And misses completely, the nanobots flying right past its ears.
[09:30] <Ebiris> "That's dangerous!" the daimon yelps, scrambling away from the nanobot wielding witch. Lifting up its other arm, it cries out "Doorknobboder Missile!" shooting off several sharp keys at the silver-haired girl.
[09:30] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[09:30] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[09:30] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[09:30] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."

[Halbarad]

[09:31] <Ebiris> "Ahh!" Viluy cries out as the keys skewer through her school uniform, shredding some skin before keychains magically sprouting out to bind them together, pinning her to the wall!
[09:32] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[09:32] <Ebiris> roll 2#1d6
[09:32] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2#1d6 and gets 6, 6."
[09:32] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[09:32] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 17."
[09:33] <Sailor_Moon> "Leave her alone!" Usagi shouts, raising her staff to do battle with the daimon once again. "Moon Princess Hallation!"
[09:33] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[09:33] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[09:33] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[09:33] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[09:34] <Ebiris> The daimon raises its shield this time, but the power of Moon's Hallation completely overwhelms it, causing the creature to cry out "Lovely!" before the magic dissipates, leaving only a door and a cracked daimon egg in the hallway. The keys also disappear, causing Viluy to slump to the ground, breathing raggedly as blood drips from a multitude of cuts.
[09:35] * Sailor_Moon pants heavily, summoning her strength before she sends a wave of healing energy towards the injured Witch.
[09:35] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2
[09:35] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[09:37] <Ebiris> Her wounds seal up, and Viluy stands up, still looking a little bit banged up. "Beaten by a daimon..." she mutters, ashamed.
[09:37] * Sailor_Moon gives the girl a wry smile. "Happens to the best of us," she replies. "Now for the REALLY fun part - taking care of Cyprine and Ptilol."
[09:39] <Ebiris> "It's obvious they knew we were coming," Viluy snorts, looking around warily, "And with the daimon dispatched they'll be quite happy to swoop in and try to finish the job..."
[09:40] * Sailor_Moon nods. "Better stay on our guard. We didn't do it this way back home, so I'm not sure what changes to expect." Keeping her eyes open, she does her best to stretch out her senses in a search for the Twins.
[09:41] <Ebiris> soul check
[09:41] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[09:41] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[09:43] <Ebiris> It's quite easy, actually. Both Cyprine and Ptilol are nearly on top of you, albeit astrally rather than physically, their auras hidden with an extremely high degree of skill, but your familiarity with the pair lets you pinpoint them quite accurately. Cyprine is right where the daimon just died, and Ptilol is by the (empty) doorway of their apartment.
[09:45] * Sailor_Moon moves to line the pair up, keeping her staff ready at her side. Unfortunately, she can't attack in the astral plane, but she can track the pair easily enough and unleash her attack as soon as they DO appear.
[09:47] <Ebiris> Unfortunately the pair move so that they're on either side of you at all time, so you can only target one. "What's wrong?" Viluy asks, noting your posture. Before you can reply, you hear the sounds of several pairs of footsteps running up the stairs.
[09:48] * Sailor_Moon shakes her head, not wanting to give away the fact that she's aware of the Twins' position. Keeping Cyprine centered in her vision, she waits for the two to appear, hoping that the healing energy will flow strongly enough through the mindlink to affect both twins.
[09:50] <Ebiris> Viluy gives you a puzzled look, as Eudial and the other Sailor Senshi rush onto the scene. "What happened? I sensed a daimon," Mars asks urgently. As the new arrivals appear, Cyprine and Ptilol abruptly vanish from your perception.
[09:54] * Sailor_Moon scowls. "They just took off... probably reporting to Germatou that we've been here," Usagi says. "I was tracking them astrally, Viluy - I couldn't say anything or I'd tip them off that I knew where they were. We're going to have to move fast if we want to get Mimette and Tellu before they get called in."
[09:56] <Ebiris> "They both live on the other side of town," Viluy shakes her head. "Unless you can teleport all of us, I doubt we'd make it in time."
[09:58] <Sailor_Moon> "Not now, I can't," Usagi says with a sigh. "I'm too wiped out as it is. Unless you're all prepared to tackle Mugen today, it's going to have to wait - I'm just too exhausted."
[10:00] <Ebiris> "We shouldn't go unless we're all in good shape," Jupiter opines. "Viluy looks like she could use a break as well."
[10:02] <Sailor_Moon> "Sounds good to me. We can stop in to see Haruka today - she should just take some talking - but I've about had it for one day." Usagi straightens up, stretching a bit.
[10:03] <Ebiris> The girls all nod, detransforming. "Will it be safe for you guys to go home?" Ami asks Viluy and Eudial.
[10:04] <Sailor_Moon> "I'd advise against it," Usagi says. "We know where they live, but so does Germatou. There's not a lot to stop him from sending someone to pay them a visit and reverse everything we've done today."
[10:05] <Ebiris> "Crap! Mom!" Eudial curses. "You guys go deal with Haruka or whatever, I'll go get Mom and we'll check into a hotel for tonight. I can meet you all tomorrow before we go to Mugen."
[10:06] <Sailor_Moon> "That'll work. Just be careful, Eudial," Usagi says with a smile. "Don't want to lose you right after we've just started to get to know you."
[10:11] <Ebiris> Eudial frowns. "I don't want to work for that creep again," she mutters, heading off.
[10:11] <Ebiris> Viluy just shrugs, "My parents are out of the country, so I guess I'll stick with you guys for now."
[10:12] <Sailor_Moon> "That should be fine," Usagi says, detransforming herself. "Just stay out of sight when we go talk to Haruka. I don't know if you've run into Sailor Uranus yet yourself, but she tends to charge right in if she thinks there's a problem, and I'd rather avoid a fight if we can."
[10:14] * Sailor_Moon is now known as Usagi-chan
[10:14] <Ebiris> "Haruka is Sailor Uranus?" Minako gasps, while Viluy goes on.
[10:15] <Ebiris> "I haven't done much field work myself, but Kaolinite and Mimette have both mentioned problems with her butting in on their Heart Snatches."
[10:15] <Ebiris> "But..." Ami pipes up, "You said Haruka has a Talisman? Sailor Uranus has been searching for them just as much as the Deathbusters, though..."
[10:16] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly. "No one knew it until Rei had a vision of the Talismans back home, either. But yes, she does - and I'd like to get it out of her Heart Crystal before we go into Mugen. Do you think you can still pull off a Heart Snatch, Viluy?"
[10:17] <Ebiris> Viluy grimaces. "Won't taking the Talisman kill her?"
[10:18] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "The Talisman can actually be separated from her Heart Crystal - something I doubt Germatou would have bothered with, but I've done it twice now myself. Once you extract her Heart Crystal - with her permission, of course - I'll separate the Talisman from it and return her Crystal. She'll be fine after that."
[10:19] <Ebiris> "Oh," Viluy nods. "Well, I can do it, I guess. It'll still hurt, though."
[10:19] <Usagi-chan> "I know," Usagi says with a frown. "Not a lot we can do about that, though." She glances around at the other girls. "Everyone ready to go?"
[10:21] <Ebiris> The girls all nod their assent, everyone looking quite happy to be following your lead except from Minako.
[10:22] <Usagi-chan> "Let's go then!" Usagi says, leading the assembled girls out of the apartment building and towards Haruka's apartment.
[10:23] <Ebiris> The group reaches Haruka's apartment without incident, the place looking much as you remember... Her car is parked outside, but there's no sign of her bike.
[10:24] <Usagi-chan> "Looks like she might not be here," Usagi says with a slight frown, closing her eyes as she stretches her senses out across Juuban in a search for the Senshi of Uranus.
[10:25] <Ebiris> Spending a couple of minutes concentrating intently fails to bring up any sign of Haruka that you can detect.
[10:27] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Nowhere nearby," she says with a sigh. "If you guys want to break up and go home that's fine; I'll probably wait here for her. Can someone take in Viluy for the night?" she asks, glancing around at the assembled senshi.
[10:29] <Ebiris> "You can stay at my apartment if it's just for tonight," Makoto offers, giving the older girl a friendly smile.
[10:30] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Thanks, Mako-chan."
[10:30] <Ebiris> With that, the girls all go their seperate ways, Ami electing to stay with you since you're staying at her place.
[10:31] <Usagi-chan> "You don't have to stay if you don't want to, Ami-chan," Usagi says, settling down next to the door of Haruka's apartment. "I don't want to keep you if you have other things to do."
[10:38] <Ebiris> "I don't mind keeping you company, Usagi-chan," Ami smiles back.
[10:40] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "Well, I can't say I mind having the company," Usagi replies. "I feel like I should apologize somehow - I've turned everyone's life upside down ever since I got here."
[10:41] <Ebiris> "I can hardly complain about you helping us with the Deathbusters," Ami smiles, although it fades quickly. "Although... your talk with Rei didn't go so well, did it?"
[10:42] * Usagi-chan sighs. "It was all right until Minako showed up... which isn't all that surprising, really."
[10:44] <Ebiris> "I heard," Ami sighs, leaning back against the wall outside the apartment building. "For what it's worth, I agree with you. Rei is just... stubborn."
[10:45] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly. "At least that much hasn't changed about her. I'm not giving up yet, but the biggest hurdle I can see is getting a chance to talk to her away from Minako for an hour or two."
[10:47] <Ebiris> Ami snorts uncharacteristically. "I doubt Minako will let Rei out of her sight until you're gone, Usagi-chan."
[10:48] <Usagi-chan> "Same here, that's why it's a problem," Usagi says with a frown. "To be honest, five minutes would be enough - I'd teleport the two of us somewhere a long way from here where we wouldn't get interrupted. But I can't really justify taking that time until the Deathbusters are taken care of."
[10:49] <Ebiris> "But if we're lucky, that will be tomorrow," Ami smiles supportively.
[10:50] <Usagi-chan> "I sure hope so... and I hope we don't have to try to track down Germatou and the Mistress this time." Usagi wraps her arms around her knees. "I just hope Rei and Hotaru can manage to become friends here, too - I think they could both be good for each other."
[10:50] <Ebiris> "Hotaru?" Ami frowns questioningly, not recalling that among the names Viluy listed earlier.
[10:51] <Usagi-chan> "Professor Tomoe's daughter - she's been possessed by the Mistress," Usagi explains.
[10:54] <Ebiris> "Ah," Ami nods understandingly. "I'm sure that would give them something to relate to each other with." Looking upwards, she goes on, "Rei's obviously quite different in your world, but what about the rest of us?"
[10:56] <Usagi-chan> "In some ways, you're not all that different, really. You're still the same as ever, although you really loved the chance to transfer to Mugen - even if you had to help pull me through all of my tutoring," she says with a grin. "Mako-chan is about the same too, although I'm glad to hear that Orestes didn't get his hands on her here."
[10:57] <Ebiris> Ami nods, smiling. "And she's with Alan in your world as well?"
[10:58] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah," Usagi says with a small smile. "Even though I know that might be a bit disappointing to hear," she says, keeping an eye on Ami for any sort of reaction.
[10:59] <Ebiris> Ami blinks, then frowns, then smiles softly as comprehension dawns. "Did the other me ever actually confess to her?"
[11:00] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "It was a... rather weird way that the rest of us found out about it, and it wasn't until after Mako-chan had gotten together with Alan."
[11:01] <Ebiris> "Oh, well," Ami shrugs lightly. "I've put it behind me, anyway. I meant what I said yesterday about having no time for romance. And I am happy for the both of them."
[11:04] * Usagi-chan nods. "I understand. Let's see, what else.... you already know that we're friends with all the Witches and the Professor, although aside from the Twins I don't really know any of the Witches all that well. The only other person to mention is Chibi Usa, really." The blonde smiles, although with a touch of sadness. "I hope I can get back to her soon."
[11:05] <Ebiris> "I'm sure everyone in your world is working hard to get you back," Ami offers with a reassuring smile.
[11:06] <Usagi-chan> "I know they are," Usagi says with a soft smile. "Thanks for helping me while I'm here, Ami-chan."
[11:07] <Ebiris> Ami smiles in reply as the two of you settle in to wait. Perhaps an hour passes before Haruka pulls up on her motorcycle outside tha apartment, parking it next to her car and taking off her helmet as she dismounts.
[11:09] * Usagi-chan stands up as she sees Haruka arrive. "There she is," she says to Ami, waiting where she is for Haruka to come to the apartment.
[11:11] <Ebiris> Ami nods while Haruka approaches, giving you both a friendly smile but showing no inclination to stop as she heads into the building.
[11:12] <Usagi-chan> "Haruka? Can we talk to you for a few minutes?" Usagi asks as the tall blonde approaches.
[11:13] <Ebiris> "Hm?" the bishonen blonde stops, smiling a bit more openly. "And what can I do for two ladies as pretty as yourselves?"
[11:15] * Usagi-chan grins slightly, well aware of Haruka's usual tendencies. "We need to talk to you about a few things that are kind of important, but I'd really rather not discuss them out in the open like this."
[11:17] <Ebiris> "This isn't one of those scams where I'll wake up in my bathtub filled with ice and missing a kidney, is it?" the older girl asks jokingly, winking at Ami who seems utterly scandalised by the idea.
[11:18] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Nope!" She sobers up a bit quickly, though. "But I do have the answers to a few questions that have been bothering you for a few years."
[11:20] <Ebiris> "Years?" Haruka blinks. "The mystery deepens..." she observes in a faux ominous tone. Brightening, "Oh, well, can't stay and chat outside all night. Let's go inside, then." She takes a few steps before pausing, "You know my name, but I'm left at a disadvantage."
[11:20] <Usagi-chan> "Usagi Tsukino, and this is Ami Mizuno," Usagi says by way of introduction. "That'll do to start." With a smile, she follows Haruka inside her apartment, letting Ami bring up the rear.
[11:22] <Ebiris> The three of you enter the apartment, Haruka negligently tossing her helmet aside. "Make yourselves at home," she says, before wincing at the state of her apartment which is definitely not fit for guests. "Just pretend your home got hit by a bomb or something."
[11:23] * Usagi-chan grins. "It's fine, I usually keep my room about this bad anyway." Moving a pile of papers off the sofa, she takes a seat, waiting for Haruka to return.
[11:24] <Ebiris> Haruka settles in on her armchair while Ami elects to remain standing. "So..." the older girl begins leadingly.
[11:24] * Usagi-chan takes a deep breath. "Let's start with the introductions again," Usagi says. "My name is Sailor Moon, and this is Sailor Mercury."
[11:27] <Ebiris> Haruka blinks. "Pardon?"
[11:27] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "I meant just what I said... Uranus," she says, looking directly at Haruka.
[11:30] <Ebiris> Haruka starts. "Well... you really do have me at a disadvantage. How did you know?"
[11:31] <Usagi-chan> "That would be a long story... the quick version is that I'm actually from another world where I know you. I also know about what you're doing now, and what you've BEEN doing, You're looking for the Talismans right now, aren't you?"
[11:32] <Ebiris> "Yes..." Haruka says warily, glancing at Ami, "I've been having... dreams..."
[11:32] <Usagi-chan> "About the Silence... I know," Usagi says quietly. "And about a girl with sea-green hair and blue eyes - I know about her, too."
[11:34] <Ebiris> "You do?" Haruka latches onto that more than the Silence. "Do you know who she is? Where I can find her?" she asks almost desperately, leaning forward.
[11:35] <Usagi-chan> "Her name... WAS Michiru." Usagi lowers her head. "I wish I didn't have to tell you this, but you aren't going to be able to find her. She passed away a very, very long time ago."
[11:37] <Ebiris> Haruka's expression crumples. "She's dead?" Going on in a strangely distant tone, "It was... the blue man... with a sword..." she says, her eyes losing focus.
[11:38] * Usagi-chan nods. "Oxyite, yes. I'm sorry, Haruka - I wish I had better news for you."
[11:38] <Ebiris> "I..." she shakes her head sadly, seemingly lost, "I should have known..."
[11:40] <Usagi-chan> "I wish it wasn't true... and maybe I shouldn't have said anything about it at all, but I thought it was better that you knew about it for sure, rather than keep on searching and never find her."
[11:42] <Ebiris> Sighing forlornly, "I guess It's best I know now," she nods. Standing up, "If you don't mind, I think I need to be alone, right now."
[11:43] <Usagi-chan> "If that's what you really want, all right," Usagi says, standing. "But I'll be back tomorrow - there's more that we need to talk about. A LOT more."
[11:44] <Ebiris> "Sure," Haruka nods distractedly, going to open the front door.
[11:45] <Usagi-chan> "I'll see you tomorrow then, Haruka," Usagi says, giving the older girl a sad smile. "I'm sorry."
[11:47] <Ebiris> Haruka nods, closing the door once all three of you are out and wordlessly going to her motorcycle and taking off. You and Ami head back to the Mizuno residence, and after a restful night's sleep, wake up bright and early on Sunday morn...
[11:48] * Usagi-chan struggles out of her futon with a groan, feeling anything but rested - especially with the knowledge of what she needs to do today.
[11:49] <Ebiris> Well, Ami at least seems chipper enough over breakfast. "So, we're all meeting at the Shrine in an hour, and then we go to Mugen?"
[11:51] * Usagi-chan nods. "We'll probably head in through the tunnels - I don't know them that well, but Eudial should. That'll get us in a lot closer to the labs - I'm just not sure how we're going to deal with all the daimons. I don't have the Crystal or the Grail with me."
[11:54] <Ebiris> "Hopefully Eudial and Viluy will have some ideas," Ami offers, finishing up breakfast before the two of you depart for Hikawa Shrine.
[11:56] * Usagi-chan nods, feeling rather apprehensive as the two near their destination.
[11:58] <Ebiris> Coming up the stairs, the two of you find the courtyard empty, the Shrine quiet during these early hours of Sunday.
[11:59] * Usagi-chan takes a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves as she enters the shrine building itself.
[12:01] <Ebiris> Inside the living room, you find Rei and Minako both dressed in miko robes and eating breakfast of chicken and rice - smells really good, too. "You're early," the white-haired girl observes as you and Ami enter.
[12:02] <Usagi-chan> "Woke up early and figured there wasn't much point in waiting at Ami's place," she replies noncommitally.
[12:04] <Ebiris> "The others should all be here in about twenty minutes," Ami supplies. "We're not disturbing you, are we?"
[12:04] <Ebiris> "No," Minako shakes her head, "We were just going to get a few chores done after breakfast and before everyone else gets here."
[12:06] <Usagi-chan> "Need any help? It's not like we have much else to do while we're here," Usagi says.
[12:09] <Ebiris> "If you like," Rei shrugs, "Just doing a little light cleaning up that I forgot to do yesterday." Pushing away her half eaten breakfast, the white-haired miko stands up, Minako doing the same a second later.
[12:10] <Usagi-chan> "Just let me know what I can do, Rei-chan," Usagi says with a faint smile. "Beats sitting around doing nothing."
[12:13] <Ebiris> "If you can restock the charms counter it'd be a help," Rei offers, "There's a bunch of scrolls just inside the prayer room." That said, she lifts up hers and Minako's plates, going through to the kitchen.
[12:14] <Usagi-chan> "Not a problem," Usagi agrees, heading into the prayer room to gather up the scrolls before heading out to the charms counter with them.
[12:15] <Ebiris> Minako follows you outside, although doesn't say anything, just grabbing a broom and getting to sweeping.
[12:16] * Usagi-chan makes no move to speak to the silver-haired girl, simply carrying her burden out to the charms counter where she begins to sort the charms out by type.
[12:17] <Ebiris> They're all clearly labelled, and it doesn't take long. You're pretty much finished when you spot Makoto and Viluy coming up the stairs.
[12:18] * Usagi-chan waves to Makoto and Viluy as the enter the grounds. "Morning, guys," she says with a smile. "You sleep okay?"
[12:20] <Ebiris> The pair return your greeting, Viluy frowning prettily, "It wasn't so bad, but I'll prefer my own bed over Makoto's couch." She does manage a smile at her hostess, "At least breakfast was good."
[12:21] <Usagi-chan> "Mako-chan's cooking is the best anywhere," she says with a grin, exiting the stand now that her work is complete.
[12:23] <Ebiris> Minako comes over, leaning her broom against the stand. "Hey, guys," she smiles at Makoto and Viluy. "Just waiting on Eudial, now, before we plan out what we're doing, today?"
[12:25] <Usagi-chan> "Looks that way," Usagi agrees. "I've already got a few ideas, but we can wait for everyone else to get here first."
[12:27] <Ebiris> Viluy nods. "Eudial probably won't be much longer. She might seem irresponsible at times, but she's always punctual at the least." Going inside, you find Rei has now changed out of her miko robes into a pair of jeans and a blouse - not very flattering, but considering how thin she looked as Sailor Mars yesterday, perhaps understandable.
[12:27] <Ebiris> "I'll just go get changed before Eudial gets here, then," Minako says, going off to Rei's room.
[12:28] <Usagi-chan> "Hope she didn't run into any trouble last night," Usagi says with a slight frown.
[12:31] <Ebiris> Viluy sits down, frowning herself. "I hope not..."
[12:35] <Ebiris> A few minutes pass, Minako returning to sit next to Rei, dressed in a light blue summer dress, and Eudial arrives about the same time. "Yo," she waves, entering.
[12:36] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit as Eudial enters, her worry evaporating. "That's everyone here," she says with a nervous smile. "Guess it's time to get started."
[12:37] <Ebiris> "So..." Viluy begins, glancing about, "We're going to go into Mugen, fight our way past whatever daimons are there, and purify Professor Tomoe, the Mistress, possibly Kaolinite, Cyprine, and Ptilol?" she asks. Just to make things clear.
[12:39] <Usagi-chan> "And destroy a few hundred daimons while we're at it," the blonde adds wryly. "Nothing too major, really." Shaking her head a bit, she adopts a slightly more serious tone. "The daimons are the biggest problem as I see it, really. Cyprine and Ptilol should be fairly simple to purify, and there are enough of us here that Kaolinite shouldn't be too hard to take care of either. That leaves Germatou and the Mistress, and all the daimons."
[12:40] <Ebiris> "I don't know about Germatou," Eudial shakes her head, "But the Mistress is really powerful. Definitely worse than Kaolinite."
[12:42] * Usagi-chan nods. "She's the main channel for Pharaoh 90's power here, from what the Professor's told me. But she doesn't have control of Hotaru all the time, either, so I'm not exactly sure what to do there. Germatou himself is just a very powerful daimon, so if we can manage to weaken him I expect I can purify him out of the Professor easily enough."
[12:43] <Ebiris> Ami turns to Eudial, "Usagi-chan said you knew about tunnels we could use to access the lower levels of the school?" she asks. (soul check, Usagi. +4)
[12:43] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+4
[12:43] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+4 and gets 12."
[12:45] <Ebiris> Eudial nods, "Yeah. You can use them to get right outside his lab. Most of the daimon eggs there are immature, and not really a danger. It's the incubated ones that actually turn into those monsters. Shouldn't be more than ten or so there unless he's got a hidden stockpile, I think."
[12:47] <Ebiris> "It might be a good idea to split up," Makoto suggests. "Some of us keep the daimons busy while others actually purify the Deathbusters?"
[12:48] <Usagi-chan> "That would probably work, Mako-chan," Usagi agrees. "Who does what, though? I know I'll have to be purifying the Deathbusters, but what about everyone else?"
[12:52] <Ebiris> Ami doesn't look especially thrilled as she speaks up, "Minako-chan has her own purifying attack, so she can help with the Witches."
[12:52] <Ebiris> Makoto looks between you and Minako, speaking up quickly. "I'll help you guys with the Witches. Rei should deal with the daimons - she'll be able to burn all the immature eggs easily enough."
[12:53] * Usagi-chan looks over at Eudial and Viluy. "You two should probably help Rei with the daimons - I know you've got your Fire Buster, Eudial, and Viluy's Mosaic Buster should help with any full-grown daimons."
[12:57] <Ebiris> "Hope I do better than yesterday," Viluy mutters under her breath.
[12:57] <Ebiris> "That just leaves me," Ami speaks up. "I guess I'll help with the purification, since if we do that quickly we'll have more support against the daimons."
[12:58] <Usagi-chan> "Is that all right with everyone else?" Usagi says, looking around for any objections.
[13:00] <Ebiris> Neither of the two Witches have any complaints, although they do glance a bit worriedly at the seemingly fragile miko. For her part, Rei returns the look with equanimity, sizing up her new teammates. "Just be careful, Rei-chan," Minako says worriedly to the white-haired girl.
[13:01] * Usagi-chan nods. "If it starts getting to be too much to handle, just pull back. There's no sense in taking a ton of risks - we can always come help you out with the daimons after we've dealt with the rest of the Deathbusters."
[13:03] <Ebiris> A round of nods greets that, followed by startled exclamations as a certain red-haired Witch appears in the middle of the room, partially transluscent. "Ptilol?!" Viluy and Eudial gasp, readying their weapons.
[13:04] * Usagi-chan frowns, getting to her feet quickly. "What do you want, Ptilol?"
[13:05] <Ebiris> "Hello, Usagi," she smiles. "I'm happy to see you're well."
[13:05] * Usagi-chan blinks, reassessing the situation. "Wait... are you MY Ptilol?" She takes a deep breath.
[13:07] <Ebiris> She nods. "We've been looking for you since you vanished the other day." Glancing at Eudial and Viluy, she goes on, "I take it you've been busy?" she asks, smirking slightly.
[13:07] * Usagi-chan groans. "Busy's not the half of it... I guess the Professor's been trying to figure out what happened?"
[13:10] <Ebiris> Everyone else just looks on in surprise at seeing more evidence of you really being from another world, while Ptilol nods. "Whatever brought you here did a good job - the dimensional barriers are completely intact. It took us a lot of searching to locate you in this particular one..." she trails off, frowning slightly. "Company's coming."
[13:10] * Usagi-chan tenses. "Any idea who?"
[13:12] <Ebiris> "Nobody bad," Ptilol smiles as Chibi Usa appears in much the same semi-transluscent style as the Witch.
[13:12] <Ebiris> "Mommy!" the little girl cries joyously, looking like she wants to hug you, but well aware of the fact that she'll pass right through you if she tries.
[13:13] <Usagi-chan> "Chibi Usa!" Usagi breaks into a broad grin at the sight of her daughter. "I've missed you a lot, Chibi Usa-chan. Are you doing okay?"
[13:14] <Ebiris> "I am, now," she nods cheerily. "Everyone's working really hard, so you'll come home soon, right?"
[13:16] <Usagi-chan> "As soon as I can, I promise," Usagi says with a smile. "We're trying to help the Professor and the other Witches here too, so hopefully I can get home even faster with their help."
[13:18] <Ebiris> Ptilol frowns. "Be careful. I wish we could help, but appearing here even like this is draining enough on my sister and I." Glancing at Chibi Usa, who does seem to be wavering, she adds, "It's even harder for Rei and Chibi Usa, it seems."
[13:19] <Usagi-chan> "Don't strain yourselves too hard," she advises. "I hope to see you guys again soon - tell Rei I miss her, all right?" Usagi says with a sad smile.
[13:22] <Ebiris> "She can hear what I can," Chibi Usa says with a smile, concentrating as if listening to something unheard. "Daddy says you better be careful or she'll never forgive you." Fading a bit more, Chibi Usa yawns, "I'll see you soon, Mommy," she smiles, giving once last wave before vanishing.
[13:22] <Ebiris> Ptilol just smirks. "They're both asleep already..." she says a few bare seconds later.
[13:23] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit at that. "I can believe that. Take care of yourselves, all right? I'll be home as soon as I can."
[13:24] <Rei-chan> Ptilol nods, smiling. "At least now you know we haven't forgotten you. We'll come back either tonight or tomorrow morning." With that, she also vanishes.
[13:25] * Usagi-chan takes a deep sigh, a smile on her face as some of the tension of the past day leaches away from her. "I'm glad everyone's all right," she says quietly.
[13:27] <Rei-chan> "Um..." Makoto coughs delicately, "Your adopted daughter is cute and all, but... did she just refer to Rei-chan as 'daddy'?" Beside Makoto, Ami winces. Glancing over at Rei and Minako, seated behind where Chibi Usa appeared, you see both of them look to be in something of a state of shock.
[13:28] * Usagi-chan sighs - there's no tiptoeing around it now. "Yes, she did. Rei and I are together in my world, and we have been for quite a while."
[13:31] <Rei-chan> Rei stares at you, her mouth opening and closing as she struggles for words, while Minako glances between Rei and Usagi in horror. "Rei-chan..." she fumbles, rather lost for words herself.
[13:32] * Usagi-chan gives Rei a sorrowful look, speaking quietly. "That's why it hurts so much to see you this way, Rei-chan. It tears me up inside to see the one I love look so miserable."
[13:34] <Rei-chan> Rei flinches at your admission of love, glancing briefly at Minako. "So... that's how things would have went if Usagi had lived?" she asks softly. Beside her, Minako starts to cry, feeling a gulf opening up between them.
[13:37] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I don't know for sure how things might have gone differently here," Usagi says. "Even if the Usagi from this world didn't love you, I know she always thought of you as her closest friend - whether that would have grown into love for the two of you, I can't really say. But even before I loved Rei, she always meant the world to me."
[13:40] <Rei-chan> Rei closes her eyes for a long, tension-filled, moment. Eventually opening them, she exhales, seeming to lose a lot of her tension. "It doesn't matter," she says softly. "We have a job to do, and I can't let this distract me."
[13:40] <Rei-chan> "Rei-chan!" Minako wails, glomping onto her girlfriend, "It doesn't matter because we love each other, right?"
[13:41] * Usagi-chan nods to Rei, tears showing in the corners of her eyes. "We're going to talk after this is over, Rei-chan," she says firmly. "As soon as we have time."
[13:43] <Rei-chan> Rei gently disentangles herself from Minako, standing up. "You're right," she nods, looking at Minako, who stares back with teary golden eyes. "We're going to have to talk some things over. But for now we need to focus on our job."
[13:45] * Usagi-chan takes a deep sigh, nodding. "Taking care of the Professor and the others is most important for right now. There'll be plenty of time to talk when that's over." Wiping her eyes with the back of her hand, she turns the best smile she can manage to the others in the room. "Is everyone else ready to go?"
[13:46] <Rei-chan> They all nod back awkwardly, eager to move on from the scene that just transpired before them.
[13:46] <Usagi-chan> "Then let's get moving," Usagi says, her expression fading into one of determination. "We've got a lot of work to do today."
[13:47] <Rei-chan> ---------
[13:49] <Rei-chan> The walk to Mugen proceeds awkwardly, Minako hanging back and sniffling miserably to herself, while Rei takes the lead with the same kind of grim determination you saw from her throughout most of that space criminal mess. Arriving at one of the tunnel entrances near the school, you prepare yourselves for the impending battle.
[13:50] * Usagi-chan takes a moment to transform before heading into the tunnels themselves. "Moon Purity Power, Make UP!"
[13:50] * Usagi-chan is now known as Sailor_Moon
[13:51] <Rei-chan> The others follow suit, Minako looking rather miserable as she transforms in a visually impressive display of white-feathered wings and golden light. After transforming, Mercury produces her visor and promptly begins scanning...
[13:52] * Sailor_Moon takes the cue and begins to scan the area with her own aura senses as well, trying to make out whatever she can.
[13:52] <Rei-chan> OOC: soul check, +2
[13:53] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2
[13:53] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 and gets 12."
[13:54] <Rei-chan> Well, it's clear that there are daimons in the school, and several people of decent power. You can't really pinpoint their locations, however.
[13:54] * Sailor_Moon sighs. "Can't make out much myself... is your computer coming up with anything, Ami-chan?"
[13:54] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[13:54] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[13:56] <Rei-chan> Ami nods. "I think I'm detecting the daimon eggs Eudial mentioned. And there looks to be several people... or really powerful daimons... in the same area."
[13:57] <Sailor_Moon> "Probably the Professor, Kaolinite, and the Twins,"  Usagi says with a sigh... this is shockingly similar to what they faced in her own world. "They'll be in the Professor's lab area - I can get us there easily enough once we get inside the school." She glances over at Eudial. "We're in your hands now, Eudial."
[13:59] <Rei-chan> "Okay," Eudial speaks up, "We," she gestures at Viluy and Mars, "Will use the main entrance to the lab - that's where he'd put any daimons for defence. If you guys take the access corridor that bypasses the lab and comes out in the Mistress' chamber, you can either deal with her, or come back to the lab and hit them from the rear."
[14:00] * Sailor_Moon nods. "I know the one. We'll give it our best shot - be careful, you guys. Come back alive," she says, giving Rei in particular a pointed look.
[14:01] <Rei-chan> They all nod, Rei returning your look. "That goes for you, too."
[14:02] <Sailor_Moon> "I'm planning on it." Glancing around at the other members of her group, she nods. "Everyone with me ready to go?"
[14:03] <Rei-chan> Mercury and Jupiter both nod determinedly. Venus nods a little more weakly, seeming more concerned with shooting longing looks at Mars.
[14:05] * Sailor_Moon frowns a bit at Venus, but doesn't make an issue of it. "Let's get moving then - the longer we wait, the more time they have to get ready."
[14:11] <Rei-chan> And so, you all make your way through the tunnels, splitting up at the garage... The others agree to wait a minute before going into the lab, so they won't be stuck fighting daimons for too long before Moon and the rest join the battle from the other side.
[14:13] <Sailor_Moon> "Good luck, everyone," Usagi says as the two groups split up, leading her team towards the back entrance to the Mistress' room.
[14:15] <Rei-chan> Hurrying down the gloomy corridors beneath Mugen, you pass by the Witches office unmolested, finally coming to the side-door to Mistress 9's chambers...
[14:16] * Sailor_Moon stops for a moment to check whether Hotaru is inside or not before opening the door.
[14:16] <Rei-chan> OOC: soul check
[14:16] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[14:16] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 12."
[14:18] <Rei-chan> Gah! You can sense her all right, and she feels REALLY powerful. You'd wager that this is probably Mistress 9 at her height, and she's barely a shade below Saturn...
[14:19] * Sailor_Moon grimaces, but she knows it's got to be done sooner or later. She quietly opens the door, trying not to alert the Mistress to her presence - although judging from her power, it's probably far too late for that.
[14:22] <Rei-chan> Opening the door, you see the throne surrounded by plushies and balloons up ahead. No sign of Hotaru, although Mimette is there, standing in front of several large monitors all stacked on each other and showing static. There's also some weird machine next to her, and she lights up on seeing you.
[14:22] <Rei-chan> "I'm so glad the Professor gave me this most important job of stopping you meddling Sailor Senshi!" she crows, before frowning cutely, "Just a pity I don't get to deal with Eudial-sempai..."
[14:24] * Sailor_Moon scowls - her aura senses have been haywire ever since she arrived in this world. "We're not letting you stop us, Mimette," Usagi says, withdrawing her staff from subspace. "Just stand aside and let me purify you, and I promise that's all that will happen. You don't know what you've been doing."
[14:25] <Rei-chan> Mimette twirls her own staff - looking rather like the ones Cyprine and Ptilol wield. "Hah!" she laughs, "Not when I'm on the verge of getting an executive position in the wonderful Deathbusters organisation!"
[14:25] <Rei-chan> OOC: init
[14:25] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[14:25] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 16."
[14:25] <Rei-chan> roll 3#1d6
[14:25] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 3#1d6 and gets 3, 3, 2."
[14:25] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6
[14:25] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[14:28] <Rei-chan> Knowing that they want to purify Mimette, Jupiter uses one of her weaker attacks, crying out "Supreme Thunder!" as she looses a bolt of lightning at the Witch!
[14:28] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[14:28] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[14:28] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+1
[14:28] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+1 and gets 7."
[14:30] <Rei-chan> "Yah!" Mimette yelps, her body rather charred even by that attack. Slumping over her machine, she glares balefully at Makoto while Venus hesitates on her own attack, seeing the Witch already so badly hurt.
[14:31] <Rei-chan> Weakly propping herself up, Mimette moves to flip a switch on the machine.
[14:32] * Sailor_Moon moves quickly, twirling her rod in a complex pattern as she sends her powerful purifying attack towards the blonde Witch! "Moon Healing Escalation!"
[14:32] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[14:32] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[14:33] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[14:33] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[14:33] <Rei-chan> Mimette is too slow to complete whatever she had planned before the attack hits, waves of light flowing over her form...
[14:33] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[14:33] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[14:36] <Rei-chan> Slumping over, Mimette is both wounded and groggy. "What the...?" she groans. From the lab you can hear sounds of battle...
[14:36] * Sailor_Moon quickly scans Mimette's aura, making sure the signs of her brainwashing are gone before moving on.
[14:36] <Rei-chan> OOC: soul check, +4
[14:36] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+4
[14:36] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+4 and gets 12."
[14:37] <Rei-chan> Her aura still looks to be suffused with darkness. Although with the general feel of this room, it's hard to tell if it's actually coming from Mimette.
[14:38] * Sailor_Moon grimaces, not having the luxury of time. Acting quickly, she attempts to drain some of Mimette's energy in an attempt to knock the other girl out cold.
[14:39] <Rei-chan> OOC: soul check
[14:39] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[14:39] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[14:39] <Rei-chan> "Oooh..." Mimette moans faintly, falling off the machine and lying on the floor, looking both unconscious and badly burnt.
[14:40] <Rei-chan> Already Jupiter is running down the corridor into the lab, Mercury behind her...
[14:40] * Sailor_Moon collects the energy in her hand before dashing out of the room in pursuit of Jupiter and Mercury.
[14:53] <Rei-chan> Rushing into the lab, you find your friends at the far end, doing a decent job of laying into several daimons as Kaolinite and the Twins take occasional pot-shots. Tomoe and Tellu are both nearer to you, turning around, "So... Mimette-kun failed," Germatou observes, seemingly amused.
[14:54] <Sailor_Moon> "Only the first," Usagi says grimly. "You've used these girls for evil, Germatou, and I can't allow it to continue! In the name of the Moon, I'll punish you!" Usagi says, posing.
[14:55] <Rei-chan> "Likewise, Sailor Jupiter!" Makoto nods fervently beside you.
[14:56] <Rei-chan> Cyprine and Ptilol both fly back to join Tomoe and Tellu as Kaolinite continues helping the daimons. "We'll destroy for the Mistress!" Cyprine snarls, "And our glorious Silence!" Ptilol adds.
[14:57] <Rei-chan> Tellu just smirks, stepping backwards into the shadows as a massive and evil looking plant shambles out, "Go, Hyper-Terrurun!" she exhorts it.
[14:57] <Rei-chan> OOC: init
[14:57] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[14:57] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 17."
[14:57] <Rei-chan> roll 3#1d6
[14:57] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 3#1d6 and gets 4, 5, 1."
[14:58] <Rei-chan> roll 2#1d6
[14:58] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2#1d6 and gets 5, 2."
[15:00] <Sailor_Moon> Letting the globe of glowing energy remain suspended at her side, Usagi produces her staff, twirling it arount to point at the Twins. "You don't know what you've been working for, but you're about to find out!" Raising the staff high, she calls out her attack yet again. "Moon Healing Escalation!"
[15:00] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[15:00] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[15:01] <Rei-chan> OOC: soul check, Usagi, +2
[15:02] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:02] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[15:02] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2
[15:02] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 and gets 10."
[15:04] <Rei-chan> Mimette's energy dissipates slightly as you turn your attention to the attack, but maintains its cohesion. Meanwhile the twins simply cross their staves between them, forming a barrier that prevents your healing energy from reaching them.
[15:06] <Rei-chan> Deciding that they aren't bothering to purify that evil looking plant, Jupiter cuts loose on it, crying out "Jupiter Thunder Dragon!" as she launches her attack, while Venus targets the Professor with a cry of "Love Crescent Shower!"
[15:06] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:06] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 12."
[15:06] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:06] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[15:08] <Rei-chan> The Hyper-Terrurun lets out a pained roar as the Thunder Dragon mauls it, while Germatou simply leers at Venus as her golden shower is somehow parted around him.
[15:09] <Rei-chan> Floating above, Cyprine and Ptilol cry out "Double Witches Spiral Buster!" pointing their staves at Usagi as a spiralling blast of red and blue energy lances down at the senshi of the Moon!
[15:09] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:09] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[15:09] <Rei-chan> But misses, gouging a hole in the floor by her feet.
[15:10] <Rei-chan> "Shine Aqua Illusion!" comes from Ami's lips as she helps Makoto, aiming at Tellu's mutated freak of a plant.
[15:10] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:10] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[15:10] <Rei-chan> But misses, the attack only freezing up some lab equipment. Evil lab equipment, of course.
[15:11] <Rei-chan> With a groan, said plant shambles towards Makoto, its tentacles lashing out to do who knows what to her!
[15:11] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[15:11] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+2
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 4."
[15:11] <Rei-chan> But Makoto simply jumps aside, the tentacles only managing to tangle themselves up!
[15:12] <Rei-chan> roll 3#2d6
[15:12] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 3#2d6 and gets 5, 7, 9."
[15:13] <Rei-chan> As you battle, you hear a loud cry of pain from across the lab as Sailor Mars takes a brutal hit from Kaolinite, her form being obscured from you as she falls amidst the battle over there.
[15:13] <Rei-chan> OOC: init
[15:14] <Rei-chan> roll 3#1d6
[15:14] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 3#1d6 and gets 2, 4, 4."
[15:14] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[15:14] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 16."
[15:14] <Rei-chan> roll 2#1d6
[15:14] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2#1d6 and gets 3, 4."
[15:15] <Rei-chan> Deciding to give the Twins something to think about besides blocking Usagi's attacks, Jupiter turns her attention upwards, giving another cry of "Supreme Thunder!"
[15:15] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:15] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[15:15] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:15] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[15:16] <Rei-chan> "Nothing to us!" Ptilol laughs, batting the attack away like it was nothing.
[15:17] * Sailor_Moon grits her teeth as she continues her attack. "Come on, guys, let me help you! I know you almost as well as you know each other - I know you don't want to do this! Please!" Usagi pleads, as the healing magic continues to pour forth from her staff towards the Twins.
[15:17] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[15:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[15:17] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:17] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[15:18] <Rei-chan> This time the twins aren't quick enough to block the attack, instead having to split up from each other as they fly apart to remain safe and brainwashed.
[15:19] <Rei-chan> Ignoring the Professor after her last attack failed, Minako turns her attention to the twins as well, giving them a taste of her golden shower at the same time as Ptilol attacks Ami and Cyprine attacks Moon!
[15:19] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:19] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[15:19] <Rei-chan> roll 2#2d6
[15:19] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2#2d6 and gets 6, 10."
[15:19] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:19] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[15:19] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:19] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[15:20] <Rei-chan> Cyprine misses, while Ami agilely twists out of harms way from Ptilol's attack. And a mere second later the pair are enveloped in beams of golden purifying light from Venus' crescent compact!
[15:20] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:20] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[15:21] <Rei-chan> Dropping heavily, the pair fall to the ground, gasping and clearly out of sorts.
[15:21] <Rei-chan> Meanwhile, Mercury continues her attack on the Terrurun.
[15:21] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:21] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[15:21] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:21] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[15:22] <Rei-chan> With a wretchedly painful noise as the mutated monster is frozen, the writihing mass of tentacles falls inert, quite dead.
[15:22] <Rei-chan> "Kaolinite, I think you might want to deal with these other girls. Your subordinates are dropping like flies," Germatou laughs, causing Kaolinite to scowl as she flies back, forgoing a final attack on the wounded Mars.
[15:23] <Rei-chan> roll 3#2d6
[15:23] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 3#2d6 and gets 2, 5, 7."
[15:23] <Rei-chan> OOC: init
[15:23] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[15:23] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 17."
[15:24] <Rei-chan> roll 3#1d6
[15:24] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 3#1d6 and gets 1, 4, 2."
[15:24] <Rei-chan> roll 2#1d6
[15:24] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2#1d6 and gets 5, 5."
[15:26] * Sailor_Moon takes a deep breath as she releases her attack pose, absorbing what energy she can from the sphere hovering at her side.
[15:27] <Rei-chan> You feel the stolen energy revitalising you, sending a thrill down your spine that you can't tell is satisfaction or revulsion. (+55 EP)
[15:28] <Rei-chan> Jupiter pants a bit, trying to collect herself after the fierce fighting so far.
[15:28] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:28] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[15:28] * Sailor_Moon grimaces as the energy revitalizes her, hating the act even as she feels the necessity for it.
[15:29] <Rei-chan> "Prepare to die for opposing the will of our great leader!" Kaolinite yells, shooting a powerful blast of energy at Sailor Venus!
[15:29] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:29] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[15:29] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+2
[15:29] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 12."
[15:30] <Rei-chan> "Yaah!" Venus shrieks, being blown off her feet as the energy slams into her chest and stomach, shredding a good deal of her fuku and the skin beneath.
[15:30] <Rei-chan> "Venus!" Mercury cries in alarm, deciding that you could all do with some cover. "Shabon Spray!"
[15:30] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:30] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[15:31] <Rei-chan> A thick icy mist spreads out from the blue-haired senshi, obscuring you from your foe, even as the sounds of battle still ring out across the lab.
[15:31] <Rei-chan> Weakly pushing herself up to her knees, Venus cries out "Venus Loveme Chain!" as she retaliates at Kaolinite!
[15:32] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:32] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[15:32] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:32] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[15:32] <Rei-chan> "Ahhh!" Kaolinite hisses in pain, dropping a few feet in the air as the chain gouges a good strip of flesh from her shoulder.
[15:33] <Rei-chan> Using the sound of the attack to locate her target, Tellu attacks the wounded Venus with a whip-like vine from her wrist!
[15:33] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:33] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[15:33] <Rei-chan> But misses completely.
[15:34] <Rei-chan> roll 3#2d6
[15:34] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 3#2d6 and gets 6, 8, 6."
[15:34] <Rei-chan> OOC: init
[15:34] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[15:34] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 14."
[15:35] <Rei-chan> roll 3#1d6
[15:35] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 3#1d6 and gets 6, 2, 2."
[15:35] <Rei-chan> roll 2#1d6
[15:35] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2#1d6 and gets 6, 1."
[15:42] <Rei-chan> Groggily picking herself up as her vision swims, Minako looks up at Kaolinite. "For Rei-chan..." she whispers, shooting forth beams of golden light without bothering to announce her attack!
[15:42] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:42] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[15:43] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:43] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[15:44] <Rei-chan> The beams of purifying light lance out of the fog, striking Kaolinite... who seems utterly unaffected. "What was that supposed to be?" she laughs, launching another bolt of energy, this time at Sailor Moon!
[15:44] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:44] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[15:44] <Rei-chan> OOC: dodge, +2
[15:44] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 eating penalty
[15:44] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 eating penalty and gets 4."
[15:45] <Rei-chan> Luckily, Usagi has little trouble at all in skipping out of the attack's path.
[15:45] <Rei-chan> Still breathing raggedly, Jupiter struggles to find some energy to keep fighting.
[15:45] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:45] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[15:47] * Sailor_Moon grimaces, seeing the purification have no effect on Kaolinite. "That's what I was afraid of," she mutters, beginning a new gesture with her staff. Dropping into a crouch, she fires off an enormous pink heart from its tip, straight at the leader of the Witches. "Rainbow Moon Heartache!"
[15:47] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[15:47] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[15:48] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:48] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[15:49] <Rei-chan> Most definitely NOT yelling 'lovely' or any other words besides an incoherent scream, Kaolinite is consumed utterly by the heart, nothing at all remaining when the lightshow passes.
[15:49] * Sailor_Moon closes her eyes tightly, trying not to cry at what she just did.
[15:50] <Rei-chan> Seeing Professor Tomoe starting to back away as everything goes pear-shaped for him, Mercury tries to solidify the mist from her Shabon Spray into icy shackles on him!
[15:50] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6-3
[15:50] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6-3 and gets 4."
[15:51] <Rei-chan> "Oohf!" Germatou grunts comically, falling over as his feet are frozen to the ground.
[15:52] <Rei-chan> As the mist dissipates from Mercury's actions, Tellu notes that Kaolinite is dead, the Twins are out of action, and the daimons are rapidly thinning out. Deciding that discretion is the better part of valour, the green-haired witch turns and bolts down the corridor to the Mistress' chambers.
[15:53] <Rei-chan> roll 3#2d6
[15:53] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 3#2d6 and gets 8, 9, 10."
[15:54] <Rei-chan> Across the lab, you can see Viluy and Eudial quite obviously starting to flag, as Rei crumples under a brutal two-way attack from the last two remaining daimons.
[15:55] <Sailor_Moon> "Mercury, go help Mars and the others! Jupiter, see if you can catch Tellu! Venus, stay with me!" Usagi snaps out, taking stock of the situation quickly.
[15:57] <Rei-chan> Still grievously wounded, Minako still manages to pay note of what happened to Rei, a burst of golden power filling her as the soldier of love takes off towards the other side of the lab, a golden light forming in her palm that's so intense it hurts to look at. Jupiter at least follows your orders, running after Tellu while Mercury rushes after Venus, lagging behind.
[15:58] * Sailor_Moon bites off a curse in Lunarian as Venus ignores her, simply shaking her head as she turns her attention to the immobile Professor. "It's over, Germatou. No Pharaoh 90 and no Silence!" she shouts, before letting loose a virtual torrent of purification at the prone academic. "Moon Healing Escalation!"
[15:59] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[15:59] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[16:01] <Rei-chan> The Professor shudders, a spectral image of the daimon leaving his body, only to be broken apart by your healing. Meanwhile, Venus does a good job of ventilating the two daimons, before joining Rei in unconsciousness, Mercury hurrying over to tend to them both.
[16:02] * Sailor_Moon quickly straightens up, hurrying over to check on the white-haired miko.
[16:04] <Rei-chan> Rei looks to be in a bad way, her civilian clothes rapidly becoming stained with blood, her white hair looking more red than anything else for the most part. She's breathing quickly and shallowly. Ami looks up at you, "We have to get her to a hospital right away," she says seriously, her expression grim.
[16:04] * Sailor_Moon kneels next to the wounded miko, closing her eyes as she places her hands on the worst of Rei's injuries and chants, healing them.
[16:06] <Rei-chan> It seems to do the trick. She's still terribly pale and gaunt, but she isn't losing any more blood, and her breathing eases. "Man..." Eudial sighs, sitting down heavily. "That was one hell of a fight..."
[16:06] <Sailor_Moon> "Sure was," Usagi says with a sigh, summoning her strength as she moves over to do the same for Minako.
[16:06] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 for rejuv
[16:06] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for rejuv and gets 8."
[16:08] <Rei-chan> Minako's wounds aren't nearly as bad, and while still obviously hurt, she only seems roughed up more than anything serious by the time you've finished healing her.
[16:08] <Sailor_Moon> "Rei should be all right for now," Usagi says, sitting back on her heels. "I think the main thing we all need right now is a lot of rest."
[16:10] <Rei-chan> "I'll second that," Viluy nods, breathing heavily as she leans on a rather damaged desk. Meanwhile, Jupiter jogs up, an unconscious Tellu slung over her shoulders. "Looks like everything's pretty much done," she observes, looking relieved as she sees Rei and Minako are both in no danger.
[16:11] * Sailor_Moon nods. "Set Tellu down here and I'll take care of her," Usagi says.
[16:12] <Rei-chan> Jupiter nods and does so. The green-haired witch sporting a rather nasty lump on the side of her head as she is laid out before you.
[16:13] * Sailor_Moon takes a deep breath as she transforms into Serenity, preparing to remove the brainwashing in a much more gentle fashion than the brute force of her senshi attack.
[16:13] * Sailor_Moon is now known as Serenity
[16:14] * Serenity concentrates, doing her best to eliminate the fog surrounding Tellu's mind as she did with Viluy and Mimette in her own world, several months prior.
[16:14] <Rei-chan> Jupiter and Mercury both smile sadly at the change, but keep silent, allowing you to do your work. Eudial and Viluy just seem idly curious.
[16:14] <Rei-chan> OOC: soul check
[16:14] <Serenity> roll 2d6
[16:14] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[16:15] <Rei-chan> Like a gentle breeze blowing through her soul, all of the daimonic pollution is blown away by your soothing ministrations. Meanwhile a pair of groans from across the lab heralds Cyprine and Ptilol's awakening.
[16:16] * Serenity glances up, looking over at the Twins to make sure they too have no more traces of the brainwashing that all the Witches shared.
[16:18] <Rei-chan> OOC: soul check
[16:18] <Serenity> roll 2d6
[16:18] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[16:19] <Rei-chan> Both seem fine, now. Much as you remember them from before the Grail was summoned. "What have..." "We been doing?" the pair ask, eyeballing the comatose Professor.
[16:20] <Serenity> "Don't!" Serenity calls out, seeing the direction of their attention. "He was brainwashed just as much as you both were - but you've all been purified now."
[16:22] <Rei-chan> Ptilol vanishes, while Cyprine walks over to join the gathering at the other side of the lab. "I suppose we should thank you. And apologise for attacking," she offers.
[16:22] <Rei-chan> "So you got the Mistress, too?" Viluy asks.
[16:22] <Rei-chan> "What about Mimette? She wasn't here at all..." Eudial adds.
[16:23] <Serenity> "I don't know where the Mistress is, but we took care of Mimette before we got here." Usagi replies, taking a sigh. "I don't even know if she's in the building right now."
[16:25] <Rei-chan> "We don't know where the Mistress is," Cyprine supplies. "The Professor told us she didn't need to be bothered by a few traitors and their allies." She smirks a bit, amused at how things turned out.
[16:26] * Serenity smiles wryly. "I think we'll bother her all the same," she says. "At least once we've had a chance to rest up a little - it was a rough fight, and I think we're all exhausted if not more."
[16:27] <Rei-chan> "Amen to that," Viluy nods. "I need a vacation."
[16:27] <Serenity> "Did you guys manage to get all the daimon eggs?" Usagi asks.
[16:28] <Rei-chan> Eudial snorts and gestures around at the heavily charred tabletops filling the lab. "Miss firebug," she gestures at Rei, "Did that before the fighting even started."
[16:30] * Serenity smiles a bit. "Good old Pyro," she says fondly, stroking the unconscious miko's hair gently. "Everyone did a great job today. Even if we have to track down the Mistress to purify her, we've taken apart almost all of Pharaoh 90's operation here."
[16:32] <Rei-chan> "Firebug?" Viluy smirks, "I guess coming from you of all people that'd be a compliment," she observes wryly. Mercury just leans back against a table, sighing as she detransforms, while Jupiter discreetly inches away from the group.
[16:34] * Serenity lets her own transformation dissipate, returning to the form of Usagi. "Come on, let's get everyone who's still out up to the nurse's office. Someone will need to stop off in the Mistress' room to pick up Mimette, too," she says, stooping as she carefully picks up Rei's slumbering form.
[16:34] * Serenity is now known as Usagi-chan
[16:34] <Rei-chan> "I'll get her!" Jupiter volunteers, dashing off to said room.
[16:35] <Rei-chan> Ami picks up Minako, while Eudial takes Tellu. "Help me with the Professor?" Viluy asks Cyprine, going off to get the older man, the blue-haired twin following.
[16:36] * Usagi-chan shakes her head a bit at how light Rei feels in her arms, leading the others as she threads her way through the winding underground passages of Mugen.
[16:38] <Rei-chan> Before long the four unconscious girls and one man are laid out in the office, while the rest of you wonder what to do, now...
[16:39] * Usagi-cha

[Halbarad]

[16:55] <Rei-chan> You appear in the living room, it looking not at all like you remember. Dark and oppressive, the walls seeming to close in on you. Cyprine appears a second later, Tomoe already opening the door and calling out, "Hotaru!"
[16:55] * Usagi-chan stays close to the Professor, her goal to keep him from rushing Hotaru once he finds her - she's worried about the young girl as well, but she's not sure what the Mistress can do, either.
[16:57] <Rei-chan> "Daddy?" Hotaru appears at the top of the stairs, dressed in a black sweater and short skirt with equally black tights. "What is it?" she asks innocently as Tomoe starts rushing towards her already.
[16:57] <Usagi-chan> "Wait, Professor!" Usagi calls out. "I'm here to help you, Hotaru-chan," Usagi calls up to the young Senshi of Destruction. "Can you wait there for just a minute?"
[16:58] <Rei-chan> Tomoe ignores you, tightly hugging Hotaru, who seems surprised and a little flustered. "Daddy, what's going on?" she asks, a trace nervously.
[16:59] * Usagi-chan shakes her head, simply transforming on the spot. "Moon Purity Power, Make UP!"
[16:59] * Usagi-chan is now known as Sailor_Moon
[17:00] <Sailor_Moon> "Can you give me a boost?" Usagi asks the Twins.
[17:01] <Rei-chan> "I'm so sorry, Hotaru-chan. Please forgive me," Tomoe begs his daughter, who looks increasingly alarmed by his behaviour.
[17:01] <Rei-chan> Cyprine just looks at you oddly, not comprehending. "A boost?"
[17:02] * Sailor_Moon shakes her head. "Never mind, I'll have to get it myself," she replies, summoning her strength to continue once again. "Professor, can you move away from Hotaru for just a minute?"
[17:03] <Rei-chan> "Daddy, what's going on?" Hotaru asks, confusion apparent. Tomoe doesn't seem to be in much mood to take your advice, sadly.
[17:03] * Sailor_Moon frowns a bit. "Cyprine, can you move the Professor a bit? This is going to be hard enough as it is, and I'd rather he wasn't in the way."
[17:05] <Rei-chan> Cyprine sighs, but walks up the stairs. "Excuse me, Professor, Hotaru," she apologises, seperating them. "This won't take a moment." It takes a bit of work to pry the Professor loose, and Hotaru just looks at the older girl, her confusion not going away one bit.
[17:07] * Sailor_Moon heads up the stairs, giving Hotaru a reassuring smile. "Just relax, Hotaru-chan - this won't hurt, and you'll feel a lot better when I'm done." 'I hope.' Summoning her staff from subspace once again, she repeats the motions she's carried out so many times today, letting her healing magic flow forth towards the young dark-haired girl. "Moon Healing Escalation!"
[17:07] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[17:07] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:08] <Rei-chan> Hotaru doesn't resist, and a shadowy creature much like Germatou emerges as your energy washes over her, being broken apart in the process with an etherial scream. Hotaru shudders at the sight, coughing a few times. "What... what was that?" she asks, alarmed.
[17:09] * Sailor_Moon takes a deep breath, a sense of relief washing over her at the sight of the Mistress' defeat. "That was the Mistress 9, Hotaru-chan. And she's gone now, forever."
[17:10] <Rei-chan> "Mistress 9?" Hotaru looks at you, not comprehending. "Are you one of those Sailor Senshi?"
[17:11] <Sailor_Moon> "I am. The Mistress was possessing you, Hotaru-chan - but I came to make sure she couldn't cause any trouble any more." Usagi smiles, settling down at the edge of the stairs. "I'm really happy to see you're safe, Hotaru-chan."
[17:12] <Rei-chan> "I was possessed?" Hotaru asks, going white as a sheet and glancing at her father. "Is... is that why I have those seizures? And everyone at school hates me?"
[17:13] <Sailor_Moon> "It's part of it," Usagi says with a sad smile. "But the seizures should stop now, I hope." Usagi nods to Cyprine, signaling that it's fine to let the man return to his daughter.
[17:15] <Rei-chan> She does so, and the Professor hugs his daughter again. "I'm sorry, Hotaru. It's my fault this happened to you."
[17:16] <Rei-chan> "Daddy?" Hotaru asks hesitantly, "What do you mean?"
[17:16] * Sailor_Moon remains silent, leaving it up to the Professor to explain as much or as little as he wants.
[17:18] <Rei-chan> Tomoe briefly glances up at you. "Sailor Moon, I can't ever thank you enough for helping my daughter and I, but I'd like to talk to her alone if you don't mind?" he asks.
[17:19] <Sailor_Moon> "I understand," Usagi says with a smile. "We'll head back to Mugen for now - you can find me there if you need me." With a nod she stands, teleporting herself back to the nurse's office at Mugen.
[17:20] <Rei-chan> Cyprine appears with you in the office, the situation there much unchanged since you left. "Is his daughter okay?" Makoto asks worriedly.
[17:21] * Sailor_Moon smiles as she detransforms, sitting back down in the chair next to Rei's bed. "She's fine. The Mistress is gone, and apparently she doesn't remember anything about what happened. The Professor is talking to her right now."
[17:21] * Sailor_Moon is now known as Usagi-chan
[17:22] <Rei-chan> Everyone agrees that that is a good thing, and a moment after you sit down, Minako begins to stir. "Minako, are you okay?" Ami asks, hurrying over to her bedside.
[17:23] * Usagi-chan looks up at Minako from her seat next to Rei's bedside.
[17:23] <Rei-chan> "Ooooh..." Minako moans. "Ami-chan? Did we win?"
[17:24] <Rei-chan> "We did, Minako-chan," Ami nods. "Everyone's fine, now."
[17:24] <Usagi-chan> 'Except Kaolinite,' Usagi thinks with a slight sigh. 'But it looks like what the Professor told me was right here, too.'
[17:26] <Rei-chan> "Rei-chan!" Minako sits up quickly, looking around wildly before her eyes land on the white-haired miko, seemingly sleeping peacefully in a clean gown rather than her blood-stained clothes of earlier.
[17:26] <Usagi-chan> "She'll be fine once she's gotten some rest," Usagi says calmly. "But for right now she needs to sleep."
[17:28] <Rei-chan> "Thank God..." Minako lies back down, turning her head to look at Rei, and you. Her golden eyes begin to tear up, "She's always so reckless..."
[17:29] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "She wouldn't be Rei if she wasn't," Usagi says, looking down at the sleeping miko. "Even if it does drive me up the wall sometimes."
[17:30] <Rei-chan> "I wish I could protect her..." Minako sniffles, slightly. "She never lets me, though..."
[17:32] <Usagi-chan> "She doesn't want or need you to protect her, Minako - she can take care of herself," Usagi replies. "I'm sure she wants and appreciates your HELP, but she doesn't need protection."
[17:35] <Rei-chan> Minako sits up, glaring at you. "Does she look like someone who doesn't need protection, right now?" she asks, gesturing at the pale and gaunt miko on the bed, her hair still matted with blood. "Rei-chan's never been as strong as she used to be. Not since..." she trails off, frowning.
[17:37] <Usagi-chan> "And as long as you try to shield her from everything that might possibly hurt her, she never will be," Usagi replies, not rising to the bait. "People have to struggle to learn things and get stronger - she'll never get a chance to grow unless she can take the chance of getting hurt."
[17:39] <Rei-chan> Minako shakes her head in disbelief. "You don't understand at all, do you?" she asks, amazed. "Do you have any idea how many times Rei-chan's nearly died since we had to start fighting again? She struggles and gets hurt ALL THE TIME!" she finishes in a near screech, crying freely.
[17:42] <Usagi-chan> "I'm not talking about just fighting, Minako," Usagi replies, still calm. "I'm talking about in here, too." She taps her chest. "She has to feel the hurt from what she's been through, and from what she's lost, before she can move on and be herself again. She has to grieve."
[17:43] <Rei-chan> "Well I WAS talking about fighting!" Minak huffs, turning away from you. Everyone else just glances awkwardly between themselves, feeling the tension in the air.
[17:45] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I don't expect you to understand it, Minako," she says quietly. "Just... trust me, okay?"
[17:45] <Rei-chan> "Hmph!" is her eloquent reply.
[17:47] * Usagi-chan simply shakes her head, not bothering to reply.
[17:49] <Rei-chan> A few moments pass in supremely awkward silence, before Makoto pipes up, "Well, at least now we only have to worry about those Moon Criminals. Things should be a lot more managable for us, now."
[17:49] <Usagi-chan> "Hopefully, yeah," Usagi agrees. "They might not be so bad if they're all you have to deal with."
[17:51] <Rei-chan> Another hour passes, explaining things to the Witches, Minako even joining in the discussion after calming down a bit. Tellu also wakes up and is brought up to speed, before Rei begins to stir weakly.
[17:52] * Usagi-chan quickly turns her attention to the waking miko. "Rei-chan? Are you all right?" she says quickly.
[17:53] <Rei-chan> "Ugh..." Rei's eyelids flutter open, facing you. "Usagi? Am I... dead?" There's only a hint of it, but she sounds almost disturbingly hopeful to your ears.
[17:54] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "No, you're still alive, Rei-chan." She takes the miko's hand gently. "You're not dead yet."
[17:55] <Rei-chan> She blinks, her mind catching up with her. "Oh... you're from another dimension..." Sitting up, and not pulling her hand away, she looks around blearily. "We won?"
[17:56] * Usagi-chan nods. "We won," the blonde says with a smile. "The Deathbusters are completely finished."
[17:58] <Rei-chan> "That's good," Rei gives the assembled Witches a half-hearted smile, leaning back against the headrest of her bed.
[17:58] <Rei-chan> "Rei-chan?" Minako's tremulous voice speaks up, the silver-haired girl perched on the edge of her bed, leaning over to put her hand near Rei's in a clear invitation.
[17:59] <Rei-chan> Rei sighs. "Hey... Minako..." she says, taking her girlfriend's hand.
[18:00] * Usagi-chan gives Rei's hand a squeeze before releasing it. "You still owe me a talk," she says with a smile. "But it'll wait until you're feeling a bit better. Just take it easy for now, okay?"
[18:01] <Rei-chan> Rei sighs again, closing her eyes. "Yeah... I've got a lot of talking to do..." she says, not sounding terribly enthusiastic at all.
[18:01] <Usagi-chan> "You've got a lot of sleeping to do first," Usagi says quietly. "Just rest for now, Rei-chan."
[18:03] <Rei-chan> ---------
[18:05] <Rei-chan> A few hours pass, until everyone goes their seperate ways, even Minako going to her own home at Rei's surprising (to everyone else) insistence. And so, it's just Usagi and Rei at the Shrine, in Rei's room...
[18:05] * Usagi-chan settles down on the edge of the miko's bed, not sure exactly how to start now that it's come to the point. "You... know the way things are in my world, from what Chibi Usa said earlier," she finally begins.
[18:10] <Rei-chan> "Yes," Rei nods. "I have to admit, I'm surprised... Never would have expected you to feel that way for me, or especially leave Mamoru-san for me..."
[18:12] <Usagi-chan> "It was a surprise for both of us," Usagi says with a slight smile, remembering. "I'd actually left Mamoru just before we got together, and you'd broken things off with Minako a few months before that."
[18:16] <Rei-chan> "That's something at least," Rei sighs. "I'd never take myself as the cheating type. Of course... your Rei is a lot different from me, isn't she?"
[18:17] <Usagi-chan> "She started off the same," Usagi says, giving the miko a serious look. "She was... taken by Metallia, the same as you were. The only difference is that I was around to try to help her deal with that, even if we were all completely fried because of the crminals at that point."
[18:19] <Rei-chan> Rei shakes her head. "Metallia was last year. The criminals haven't been bothering us longer than a couple of weeks."
[18:20] * Usagi-chan smiles. "I know... it's obvious that things aren't happening in the same order here that they did in my world. The criminals escaped the day after we defeated Metallia in my world. We dealt with the Deathbusters back in March at home, too - that's how I already knew so much about Mugen."
[18:22] <Rei-chan> Rei sighs. "We didn't have any problems until Alan and Ann in March, but..." she shakes her head, "That's irrelevant, anyway."
[18:23] * Usagi-chan nods. "Pretty much, yeah." Usagi sighs a bit. "I guess I'm wondering what else you want to know about me and Rei, mostly. There's a lot to tell, but I just need a place to start."
[18:24] <Rei-chan> "It's probably best if I don't know," Rei snorts. "Just another reason to be miserable over how things turned out, here..."
[18:26] * Usagi-chan frowns. "And you don't HAVE to be miserable, Rei! That's what I don't get - why are you still beating yourself over what happened?"
[18:28] <Rei-chan> "Because I loved her," Rei admits quietly, not meeting your eyes. "And I didn't realise it until she was gone. Until I made her go."
[18:30] * Usagi-chan takes Rei's forearms. "You didn't MAKE her do anything, Rei-chan - it's what she chose to do. She loved you too - I don't know whether romantically or not, but I know she loved you as her closest friend. That's why she made the choice she did - she loved you enough to give you the chance to be happy again."
[18:31] <Rei-chan> "That's Usagi..." Rei smiles bitterly, "She'd follow her heart without considering the consequences..."
[18:32] <Usagi-chan> "Then why are you making what she did completely meaningless?" Usagi says plaintively.
[18:33] <Rei-chan> Rei frowns at you, meeting your eyes again. "I can't just flip a switch to decide how I feel, Usagi!"
[18:35] <Usagi-chan> "I'm not asking you to change at the drop of a hat, Rei-chan - I know you can't do that," Usagi says, looking back into Rei's eyes earnestly. "I know you feel horrible about what's happened. But you don't have to stay there for the rest of your life. You CAN move on and be happy again - maybe not tomorrow, but I know it's possible."
[18:37] <Rei-chan> "Maybe it is, but it hasn't even been a year, Usagi."
[18:39] <Usagi-chan> "Maybe not, but you haven't even given yourself a chance to cry over her YET!" Usagi says emphatically. "You proved that to me yesterday - you've been trying to keep up a brave front for Minako and everyone else ever since she died, haven't you?"
[18:41] <Rei-chan> Rei actually snickers, although it truthfully doesn't sound all that mirthful, and degenerates pretty quickly into coughing. "I might as well have drowned in tears back in December," she manages to get out. "For all the good it did me."
[18:42] <Usagi-chan> "Then why are you still in such bad shape?" Usagi asks. "I can tell you're still miserable just by looking at you - and it hurts to see you like that."
[18:42] <Rei-chan> "Because crying doesn't change anything!" Rei snaps back. "No matter how much I cried, things always stay the same."
[18:51] <Usagi-chan> "No, it doesn't change the way things are," Usagi says. "But it can help change the way you look at them. I can't blame you at all for being upset that you lost Usagi - I know I'd be an absolute wreck if I lost Rei. And I probably would be really sad for a long time - but not forever. I know that's not what Rei would want me to do if she did pass on. It'd hurt, but I'd have to pick up the pieces and go on in time. And I don't see you doing that."
[18:54] <Rei-chan> "As I've said," Rei sighs, "It's more than just losing her. It's losing her combined with all the other things that happened with Metallia... It's not the sort of thing you can just brush under the carpet and forget about."
[18:56] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "And it's the same thing I told you yesterday. You don't HAVE to forget it. It was a part of your life - a really bad one, maybe, but still a part of who you are. But that doesn't mean you have to kick yourself over everything that happened until the day you die."
[18:57] <Rei-chan> Rei closes her eyes, wondering why you just won't get it. 'Of course, she's Usagi... how could she be anything but forgiving...' "Easier said than done," is all she says.
[19:00] <Usagi-chan> "Why? What makes it so hard to move on, Rei?" Usagi sighs. "No one even knows what happened while you were under Metallia, other than the other senshi - and I know for a fact not a single one of them holds what happened against you. Why do you?"
[19:02] <Rei-chan> "I know," Rei rests a hand over her chest. "It's not something I expect you to understand. I pray you'll never have to, but the stain on my soul won't ever leave me." As she speaks, she fingers her bone-white hair in a habitual gesture.
[19:05] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I do understand some of it, Rei - maybe not the same way you do, but I know what it feels like to be responsible for a complete disaster. It was MY fault that the criminals escaped when they did back home. Every time anyone - ANYONE - got hurt by one of them, it was my fault. If I hadn't gone nosing around where I shouldn't have, they never would have escaped.
[19:06] <Usagi-chan> I watched Rei get carved to ribbons twice, and it felt like I was the one holding the sword. I saw Makoto's soul ripped to shreds, and it seemed like *I* was the one that did that to her. I know some of what it's like."
[19:08] <Rei-chan> Rei gives you a sympathetic look. "Believe me, Usagi, I'm not saying this to diminish what happened to you, or to be cruel. But you don't understand. You didn't do those things, and you fought to stop them. I... I didn't fight. Metallia changed me without any effort, and then..." she shudders, "I enjoyed what I did for her."
[19:09] <Usagi-chan> "And you didn't fight to keep Metallia from changing you at all?" Usagi says, giving Rei a long look. "I KNOW that's not true. Even if there wasn't much you could do to resist her, I know you wouldn't just give up and let her do whatever she wanted with you."
[19:11] <Rei-chan> Rei shakes her head, her eyes turning distant. "No... she got inside my head, showed me a few things... and I threw myself into the abyss for her. There was no fight."
[19:14] <Usagi-chan> "No," Usagi says, giving Rei a stern look. "I don't doubt she did some things in your head that I can't even imagine, and probably don't want to. But you can't tell me you didn't fight her - otherwise you wouldn't be standing here in front of me right now."
[19:16] <Rei-chan> Rei just shrugs. "I appreciate what you're trying to tell me, but... words are cheap. My actions on that day speak for themselves."
[19:19] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "You're wrong," Usagi replies. "If you'd really thrown everything away, nothing that Usagi or anyone else could have done would have helped you - not unless you wanted the help. If she'd used the Crystal to take you away from what you really wanted, all she would have been doing is brainwashing you herself - and you're not brainwashed now. You didn't want to be doing what you were, or you'd
[19:19] <Usagi-chan> have fought the other senshi to the death."
[19:22] <Rei-chan> Rei doesn't seem to have a good answer to that, silently mulling over your words with a thoughtful expression.
[19:25] * Usagi-chan subsides a little, seeing Rei in a more thoughtful mode. "It's a horrible thing that you should never have had to go through, but it's been over for a long time. Let it stay in the past, Rei-chan," Usagi says quietly.
[19:27] <Rei-chan> Still looking contemplative, Rei takes a long moment to respond. "If... if, you're right," she begins, not conceding anything just yet, "Then what? I just forget about it and live happily ever after?" She doesn't need to say anything for it to be clear she's thinking of Minako, right now, with how clearly their relationship is on the rocks.
[19:29] <Usagi-chan> "I didn't say to forget it, Rei-chan," Usagi says. "I can't expect you to do that. All I'm saying is that you don't let it be what you base your entire life around anymore." She sighs a bit. "As far as living happily ever after goes... I can't predict the future. But what I've found is that if you want a 'happily ever after', you have to go out there and find it for yourself."
[19:32] <Rei-chan> "Forget about it, dismiss it," Rei shrugs, "It works out the same." Sighing, she leans back, looking at the ceiling, "I don't even know what I want, anymore... I've just been living day to day for so long..."
[19:33] <Usagi-chan> "I know what I'd like for you, but it's up to you whether it's what you want to do or not," Usagi says, taking Rei's hand once again.
[19:35] <Rei-chan> Rei eyes your hand wrapped around her own for a moment before responding. "What?" she asks, looking up to meet your eyes.
[19:36] <Usagi-chan> "I want you to be happy, in whatever you choose to do. Not happy because I want you to be, or because Minako does, or anyone else - just happy because you're doing what you want to do. Whatever it is that makes you happy... doesn't matter so much."
[19:40] <Rei-chan> "I haven't been happy in a long time..." Rei sighs. "I do love Minako... but... love isn't what I expected." She falls back, lying on the bed and staring upwards. "I think... after we deal with those criminals, I'll take a vacation. Just me, by myself... until I remember what I want from life..."
[19:41] * Usagi-chan smiles. "I think that sounds like a really good idea." She sighs a bit. "And Minako... is an entirely different subject," she says after a moment. "I don't know whether it's one you really want to get into right now or not, though."
[19:44] <Rei-chan> Rei shakes her head. "Things there are... complicated. I know you're biased, and I'm not even sure if I can make you understand." She rolls over, facing away from you, and curls up. "I want things to work out, though..." she adds in a small voice, sounding tremendously vulnerable.
[19:48] * Usagi-chan lowers her head. "I probably am biased, you're right." The blonde clasps her hands in her lap, feeling a gap form between herself and the vulnerable miko. "I... can tell you what I see there, if you want. If not, I'll let it go. And by all means, take anything I say with a grain of salt - I probably am biased. But just know that all I want is to help you."
[19:50] <Rei-chan> "I know you do, and I'm grateful, but..." Rei sighs, propping herself up and facing you, "Just let it go, please. I'm not blind, or stupid. I know how things are, even if I've been ignoring them for perhaps too long."
[19:51] <Usagi-chan> "All right, I will," Usagi agrees. "Is there anything else you'd like from me?"
[19:55] <Rei-chan> "You've already done more than enough," Rei smiles, sitting up properly. "You can stay here tonight, if you'd like," she offers. "Ami's place is nice, but you did ask for here as your first choice, after all."
[19:57] * Usagi-chan smiles. "It is nice, but it's a little bit cramped for two people in one room," Usagi agrees. "And thank you, Rei-chan."
[19:58] <Rei-chan> "I'm sorry I didn't offer sooner," Rei ducks her head a moment as she apologises. "I just hope things aren't too far gone if I'm finally getting my act together, now."
[19:59] <Usagi-chan> "It's all right, I can understand," Usagi says with a smile. "And it's never too late to start again, as far as I'm concerned."
[07:17] <Ebiris> The remainder of the day passes without much incident, helping Rei around the Shrine and generally just enjoying time with the girl who's finally seemed to find a renewed vigour in her life. Still taking things easy after the hard battle, Rei went to bed early, and nine o' clock finds Usagi watching television in the living room when Ptilol appears once more.
[07:19] * Usagi-chan smiles at the ghostly form of the red-haired Witch. "Hey, Ptilol. I was wondering when you were going to show up."
[07:20] <Ebiris> "Hello, Usagi," Ptilol smiles back. "Everyone will be glad to know you're still in one piece, at least. How did things go, today?"
[07:21] <Usagi-chan> "Really well, I think. Everyone at Mugen here is back to normal again, although there wasn't anything we could do for Kaolinite here, either." Usagi replies. "What about things on your end?"
[07:23] <Ebiris> "We're still trying to discern exactly HOW you wound up here, since we'll likely have to replicate it to safely bring you back," Ptilol replies. "The only methods we currently have require massive brute force and would likely do irreperable damage to both dimensions."
[07:24] * Usagi-chan sighs a bit, frowning. "Any clue as to what happened yet? All I remember is that everything around me seemed like it faded, then I appeared here."
[07:27] <Ebiris> "Our working theory is that a wormhole much like what you used to visit Shadow Tokyo was used. Except that it would have to have been something several orders of magnitude more advanced than anything we have, as it slipped you through the dimensional barrier with hardly any trace. Either it ruptured and then instantly sealed the barrier, or it used some method to move you between the superstrings without disrupting them."
[07:30] * Usagi-chan nods, doing her best to remember all of what was just said - even if she doesn't know what any of it really means. "I'll pass that on to the Professor here... maybe working from both ends will help a little," Usagi replies. "Even if it doesn't, I feel like I should be doing SOMETHING to try to get home myself."
[07:32] <Ebiris> "We'll find a way from our end, I'm sure of that," Ptilol asserts confidently. "For yourself, it's worth bearing in mind that this sort of thing is far to precise to be some cosmic accident. Someone or something brought you here for a reason. An answer may present itself even before we come up with a solution, here."
[07:33] * Usagi-chan frowns a bit at that. "So something brought me here? Great... so now I get to try to figure out who or what, and more importantly WHY."
[07:35] <Ebiris> "Like I said, there has to be a reason. Chances are it will present itself to you before long," Ptilol says, frowning a bit. "In any case, I can't stay much longer. Is there anything you'd like me to pass on back home?"
[07:36] <Usagi-chan> "Just give Rei my love, and let the rest of my family know I'm okay - if Chibi Usa hasn't already done it herself. I just really hope I can come home soon - it's not so bad here, but it's not home, either." Usagi says with a wan smile.
[07:38] <Ebiris> Ptilol smiles, "Rei or Chibi Usa would have visited you along with me, right now, but it's past Chibi Usa's bedtime. I'll come back sometime tomorrow afternoon with one of them, most likely."
[07:38] <Usagi-chan> "That'll be great - I'll look forward to it, then." Usagi says with a broad smile. "Anyway, I'll see you later, Ptilol - thanks for stopping by."
[07:39] <Ebiris> "Just take care of yourself, Usagi," Ptilol asks, disappearing.
[07:40] <Usagi-chan> "I'll do my best," Usagi says with a smile, even as the apparition disappears. Flipping off the TV, she heads off to bed - it's been a long day.
[07:45] <Ebiris> ------
[07:45] <Ebiris> After a restful night's sleep, you wake up in the morning to see Rei off to school, and now have the day to yourself...
[07:47] * Usagi-chan decides to head off to speak with this world's Professor Tomoe; hopefully, if nothing else, he can help explain to her what's happened, even if he can't do much to help her find her way back. And it's a good excuse to check up on everything at Mugen, as well. With her plans set, she takes a bath, borrowing some of Rei's clothes before heading off to Mugen.
[07:52] <Ebiris> Arriving outside the school, you find it to be busy enough, classes already in session just like any other day...
[07:52] * Usagi-chan heads inside, going straight to the reception desk to ask whether Professor Tomoe is here today or not.
[07:53] <Ebiris> The secretary on duty readily informs you that Professor Tomoe called in earlier and is taking the day off.
[07:54] * Usagi-chan thanks the secretary, heading back out of the school and for the Professor's house. It's a nice enough day to enjoy the walking, at least.
[07:56] <Ebiris> It is, at that, the sun shining brightly down as you make your way to the Tomoe home...
[07:56] * Usagi-chan heads right up to the front door, ringing the bell.
[07:58] <Ebiris> It takes a few moments before Hotaru answers the door, looking rather chipper. "Hello?" she looks up at you curiously.
[07:59] <Usagi-chan> "Good morning," Usagi says with a bright smile. "Is your dad here? I'd like to talk to him for a few minutes, if that's okay."
[08:00] <Ebiris> "Okay," Hotaru smiles, making way at the door. "Come in, miss...?"
[08:01] <Usagi-chan> "Tsukino," Usagi replies as she enters. "But I think you know me better as Sailor Moon," she says with a wink.
[08:03] <Ebiris> "Oh!" Hotaru blushes, quickly going into a respectful bow. "Thank you for what you did yesterday, Sailor Moon."
[08:04] * Usagi-chan blushes herself. "You don't need to thank me, Hotaru-chan - I was really happy to do it. In a way, you and your dad are really good friends of mine - that's part of what I need to talk to the Professor about today. Do you know where he is right now?"
[08:07] <Ebiris> "Yes," Hotaru straightens. "Daddy's in his study. Follow me," she leads you down the hallway and through a door on the right. Inside you find the Professor sitting in a comfortable looking armchair by the windows, sunlight streaming in that area to contrast the overall gloominess of the room. "Daddy, Sailor Moon is here to see you."
[08:08] <Ebiris> The Professor stands up at that, smiling at you. "Sailor Moon," he nods, "Once more, I can't thank you enough for all you've done."
[08:09] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit. "Please, just call me Usagi. And you don't need to thank me, really - I'm just glad I was able to help you. Again." She finishes with a grin.
[08:10] <Ebiris> "Usagi, then," he nods, before furrowing his brow. "Again?"
[08:13] <Usagi-chan> "Again," Usagi confirms. "I've got a story to tell you, and I think you're probably the only person here that won't think it's too unusual. To tell the truth, I'm actually from another dimension... a 'parallel universe' is I think what Ami called them once. In my dimension, I ALSO helped to save you and the Witches from the Deathbusters - except that in my world, it happened about six months ago. I've been
[08:13] <Usagi-chan> a good friend of your counterparts there ever since."
[08:15] <Ebiris> "You're from a parallel universe?" he gapes a moment, drawing closer. Hotaru just looks on curiously, only having a vague understanding of what that entails. "How did you come here, then?"
[08:17] <Usagi-chan> "That's where things get messy," Usagi says with a sigh. "No one's quite sure - all I remember was fading out from my own world and appearing here. I didn't realize I was in a different universe until I got home and my mother was completely shocked to see me."
[08:20] <Ebiris> Tomoe frowns a long moment, digesting that. "The Sailor Senshi have been attacking the Witches on Heart Snatches for a while... but Sailor Moon herself hasn't been seen since last year..." he says at last, the direction of his thoughts obvious.
[08:22] <Usagi-chan> "She passed away in a pretty major fight at the end of last November," Usagi confirms. "Which is why almost everyone I've run into here has been completely stunned to see me." She sighs a bit. "For now, though, I'm trying to figure out how to get back to my own world - I'm glad I've been able to help out here, but I'd really like to get back to my own family."
[08:23] <Ebiris> "Yes..." he says slowly, taking off his glasses and cleaning them as he thinks. "And you don't have any clues as to what brought you here?"
[08:24] <Usagi-chan> "I've been contacted by the Twins from my world - they can astrally project themselves here for short periods of time. According to what they told me, my being brought here wasn't an accident - the dimensional barriers between this world and mine are completely intact. So it's partly a matter of figuring out how to get home without creating some kind of disaster, and partly figuring out who or what brought me here."
[08:27] <Ebiris> "Indeed..." he nods, frowning. "I had hoped to forget the accursed experiments that brought Germatou to this world and..." he glances at Hotaru, trailing off. "But, I am indebted to you. If my research can help find a way to return you to your home, then I will do my utmost."
[08:30] <Usagi-chan> "I appreciate the help, Professor. There are a few other problems that the senshi here need to deal with, and I've got some inside knowledge on those too - hopefully once that's all taken care of, I can really get down to figuring out what brought me here - the Professor at home is working on how to get me back."
[08:32] <Ebiris> He nods. "I'll go over my old research and see what I can come up with."
[08:37] <Usagi-chan> "Thank you... I REALLY appreciate your help," Usagi says with a smile. She turns to Hotaru. "Hotaru-chan, is it okay if I talk to your dad alone for a couple of minutes?"
[08:50] <Ebiris> "Okay," Hotaru nods, exiting the room and closing the door behind her so the grownups can talk alone. The Professor just looks at you curiously.
[08:51] <Usagi-chan> "There's one other thing I need to mention about Hotaru," Usagi says after a moment. "She's also a Sailor Senshi, although she hasn't really had her power awakened yet."
[08:51] <Ebiris> "She's what?" Tomoe's jaw drops at that.
[08:52] <Usagi-chan> "She's a senshi, the same as I am. Sailor Saturn, to be exact." Usagi repeats.
[08:52] <Ebiris> "I... how?"
[08:54] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "The same way that all the rest of us are," Usagi says. "She's the reincarnation of the princess of Saturn from a very, very long time ago - just as I'm the reincarnation of the princess of the Moon."
[08:55] <Ebiris> "Is that where her healing power comes from?" Tomoe asks, frowning. "The Mistress said she wasn't responsible for that, and Hotaru tried it last night after you removed the Mistress and it still worked."
[08:58] <Usagi-chan> "I wouldn't be surprised if it's related to that," Usagi says. "Most of us have some sort of power that we can use apart from being senshi - that may be what it is for Hotaru, I don't know. I can't tell you much more than that about Saturn, except that she's probably the single most powerful senshi there is, except possibly me at times. But I doubt Hotaru has any idea that that's who she is - and she may not need to know it for a while."
[08:59] <Ebiris> "The most powerful senshi?" he repeats, shaking his head, "Pharaoh 90 chose well, indeed..." Frowning, he tries to dismiss that, "So, what does that mean for her, now?"
[09:00] <Usagi-chan> "For right now, probably not much. Back at home, the only times I've heard of Saturn awakening are when Hotaru feels like she or someone else close to her is in extreme danger - it's only happened twice since I've known her."
[09:01] <Ebiris> Tomoe nods in relief. "So she won't be expected to fight anything. That's good."
[09:04] <Usagi-chan> "Not unless she really wants to, no," Usagi agrees. "She may start to come into her power more when she gets closer to my age, but I really can't say - she's the same age in my world as well, so that's only a guess. But I thought you should know, at least."
[09:05] <Ebiris> "Yes... better to know now than to be surprised later."
[09:08] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Anyway, I think that was all I needed to talk to you about. I'll let you get back to Hotaru now - I'm sure you're eager to spend time with her again," the blonde says with a grin.
[09:08] <Ebiris> He smiles, "And I have you to thank for it."
[09:10] <Usagi-chan> "It's really no problem," Usagi insists. "I was more than glad to do it - it's worth it just to see both of you happy." She stands, stretching a bit. "Anyway, I'd probably better get going - always more work to do." She makes a face at that.
[09:10] <Ebiris> "What do you have to do, now?" he asks, curiously.
[09:12] * Usagi-chan sighs. "There's a group of criminals that were kept in a magical prison for several thousand years, but they've recently escaped. Today I get to go out and see if I can find any of them - which should be just tons of fun, but it has to be done."
[09:13] <Ebiris> "Well... I trust you know what you're doing," Tomoe concedes, not really knowing enough about the situation to offer much besides that.
[09:14] <Usagi-chan> "That's the hope, anyway," Usagi says with a wry grin. "Anyway, enjoy your time with Hotaru, Professor - I'll stop by in a couple of days to see how things are going."
[09:15] <Ebiris> Bidding farewell to the Tomoes, Hotaru sees you out to the door, and you now have the glorious day spread out before you... to spend hunting space criminals. Yay.
[09:16] <Usagi-chan> Deciding that it will be easier to cover more ground from the rooftops, Usagi finds a quiet spot in which to transform before taking to the rooftops of Juuban, keeping her aura senses stretched out for anything unusual or unfamiliar.
[09:17] * Usagi-chan is now known as Sailor_Moon
[09:17] <Ebiris> OOC: soul check, +6
[09:18] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+6
[09:18] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+6 and gets 12."
[09:20] <Ebiris> Completing a wide circuit around Juuban, taking nearly an hour and a half, you come up with... nothing. Looks like today's quiet on the space criminal front.
[09:21] * Sailor_Moon hops down in an abandoned alley near the Crown arcade, detransforming and heading out in search of lunch - but NOT at her favorite arcade/cafe.
[09:21] * Sailor_Moon is now known as Usagi-chan
[09:25] <Ebiris> Lunch is procured easily enough, a small okonomiyaki shop providing a decently filling meal that's easy on your purse.
[09:29] * Usagi-chan decides to take it fairly easy for the rest of the afternoon - nothing in particular seemed to pop out at her as dangerous on her earlier sweep of the area, so relaxing a bit for the remainder of the day isn't such a bad idea. She takes a wandering course through Juuban, heading slowly towards Mugen - she's hoping she can catch Haruka after school today, although she knows that the blonde may be taking time off still.
[09:33] <Ebiris> Time passes, you reaching Mugen around the time school lets out, droves of students filling the streets around the school... (soul check, +2)
[09:33] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+2
[09:33] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 12."
[09:34] * Ebiris sets mode: -v+v Hatbot Musk-bot
[09:35] * Usagi-chan glances around the parking lot, looking to see if Haruka's motorcycle is here today.
[09:37] <Ebiris> no sign of it that you can see...
[09:38] * Usagi-chan shakes her head a bit, turning her steps away from the school and towards the Shrine. There are other matters that she can deal with here, still.
[09:39] <Ebiris> OOC: soul check, -4 (don't 12)
[09:39] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6-4
[09:39] * Musk-bot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6-4 and gets 5."
[09:41] <Ebiris> You haven't gotten far from Mugen when your aura sense is rocked by a tremendous energy about a block or two away. One that's gut-churningly familiar as belonging to a certain blue skinned pirate and his cosmic blade...
[09:42] * Usagi-chan bites off a particularly nasty Lunarian curse before heading towards the source of the energy, looking for a place to transform along the way.
[09:42] * Usagi-chan is now known as Sailor_Moon
[09:44] <Ebiris> Making top speed, you reach the scene of battle in record time. There you see the steaming corpse of one of those huge pink demons, Cynthia off to the side observing, while Oxyite does battle with a wounded and righteously pissed Sailor Uranus. Your peripheral vision barely notes Sailors Mercury and Jupiter racing down the street from the other direction...
[09:48] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[09:48] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[09:48] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 18."
[09:48] <Ebiris> roll 2#1d6
[09:48] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2#1d6 and gets 6, 3."
[09:50] <Ebiris> Drawing forth an orb of golden energy in her hand, Haruka plunges her fist into the ground with a furious cry of "WORLD SHAKING!" her attack tearing up great chunks of asphalt as it careens across the street at the fast moving swordsman.
[09:50] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[09:50] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[09:50] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[09:50] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[09:51] <Ebiris> Oxyite easily bats the sphere into the sky with his sword, racing towards Haruka to attack!
[09:51] <Ebiris> roll 2#2d6
[09:51] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2#2d6 and gets 5, 9."
[09:51] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[09:51] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[09:51] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[09:51] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[09:51] <Ebiris> Despite Oxyite's tremendous speed, the senshi of the wind is able to keep up with him, ducking and weaving between his vicious slashes!
[09:53] * Sailor_Moon quickly assesses the situation, coming to a rapid decision. Drawing her staff out of subspace wordlessly, she unleashes a powerful beam of energy from it - not towards the swordsman, but at the demonic summoner. "Moon Healing Escalation!" she cries. 'Come on, Cynthia, I know you don't really want to be like this!'
[09:53] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[09:53] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[09:53] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+3
[09:53] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+3 and gets 11."
[09:54] <Ebiris> Cynthia doesn't even know what hit her, the energy washing over her, doing battle with her demonic taint!
[09:54] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[09:54] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[09:54] <Ebiris> With a gasp, Cynthia falls to her knees, her hands seemingly automatically going to the curved horns protruding from her head as she shudders.
[09:55] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[09:55] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[09:55] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 14."
[09:55] <Ebiris> roll 3#1d6
[09:55] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 3#1d6 and gets 6, 3, 1."
[09:55] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[09:55] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[09:57] <Ebiris> While seemingly impressed by Haruka's dodging skills, Oxyite is remorseless in pressing his attack against the sandy-haired senshi. If he noticed what happened to Cynthia, he doesn't seem to care.
[09:57] <Ebiris> roll 2#2d6
[09:57] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2#2d6 and gets 9, 6."
[09:57] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[09:57] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[09:57] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[09:57] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 14."
[09:58] <Ebiris> Haruka slips past the first thrust, but is caught badly out of position when his follow up tears a large slice of flesh from her flank, her red blood spattering over Oxyite's blue face as she staggers backwards, clutching her wound.
[09:59] <Ebiris> "Damn... you..." Haruka gasps, falling to her knees as she unleashes a "World Shaking!" at point blank range!
[09:59] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[09:59] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[09:59] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[09:59] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[09:59] <Ebiris> But for Oxyite it's no trouble at all to twist his body to the side, the blast flying harmlessly past him!
[10:00] <Ebiris> Turning, he's confronted by Sailor Jupiter as she gets into range and cries out "Jupiter Thunder Dragon!" unleashing her own powerful attack at him!
[10:01] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:01] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[10:01] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:01] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[10:01] <Ebiris> "Haa!" Oxyite cries, his sword flashing out in a vicious horizontal arc to neatly bisect the Thunder Dragon, arcs of electricity spattering harmlessly around him!
[10:02] <Sailor_Moon> "Go, Mercury!" Usagi shouts, preparing her own attack as she waits for the Senshi of Ice.
[10:03] <Ebiris> Nodding grimly, Mercury follows Jupiter's lead, calling forth an arc of icy water from her fingertips as she cries out "Shine Aqua Illusion!" and releases it at the swordsman!
[10:03] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:03] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[10:03] <Ebiris> But misses, the attack going wide!
[10:04] * Sailor_Moon follows up almost immediately, firing off her most powerful attack at the swordsman - aimed directly at his sword. "Rainbow Moon Heartache!" she cries.
[10:04] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 eating penalty
[10:04] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 eating penalty and gets 10."
[10:04] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:04] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[10:05] <Ebiris> Sadly, it looks to be the easiest thing in the world for Oxyite to sway to the side, the attack careening past him harmlessly. "Four of you, eh?" he smirks. "This might just be interesting, after all."
[10:05] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[10:05] <Ebiris> roll 3#1d6
[10:05] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[10:05] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 3#1d6 and gets 5, 2, 6."
[10:05] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 18."
[10:05] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[10:05] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[10:07] <Ebiris> As you sense his energy continue to skyrocket, you also feel Oxyite's eyes on you, marking his next target. Giving Haruka a reprieve for now, the swordsman dashes straight at Sailor Moon with tremendous speed!
[10:07] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:07] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[10:07] <Ebiris> OOC: dodge, +3
[10:07] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+1 eating penalty
[10:07] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+1 eating penalty and gets 4."
[10:08] <Ebiris> With a graceful leap, Sailor Moon carries herself well out of range of his attack, landing lightly and ready for more!
[10:08] <Ebiris> Breathing raggedly, Uranus attempts to summon the will to keep going, even with her grievous injuries.
[10:08] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:08] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[10:10] * Sailor_Moon maintains her assault on the villain's sword, knowing that it's a long shot but that anything she might try is going to be one.
[10:10] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 eating ACV penalty
[10:10] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 eating ACV penalty and gets 8."
[10:10] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:10] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[10:11] <Ebiris> "Haa!" Oxyite cries, making a massive overhand swing to cut your glowing pink heart in two. Some of its destructive energy still seems to get through, however, but barely seems to phase Oxyite or his sword, their dual auras still building massively.
[10:12] <Ebiris> "Grr... I'll show you..." Makoto growls, angry at the failure of her last attack as she leaps high in the air to repeat it. "Jupiter Thunder Dragon!"
[10:12] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:12] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[10:12] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:12] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[10:13] <Ebiris> But the agile swordsman is already moving, nowhere near where the attack finally lands, crackling on the pavement.
[10:13] <Ebiris> Ami steps up next, still doggedly trying to land her own attack. "Shine Aqua Illusion!"
[10:13] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:13] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[10:13] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:13] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[10:14] <Ebiris> This time she somehow manages to blindside Oxyite, the swordsman staggering slightly as his right side is covered in ice!
[10:14] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[10:14] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[10:14] <Ebiris> roll 3#1d6
[10:14] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[10:14] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 16."
[10:14] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 3#1d6 and gets 4, 1, 1."
[10:14] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[10:16] <Ebiris> "Just go back to hell, you bastard!" Haruka screams, loosing off another "World Shaking!" at the figure that haunted her recent dreams of Michiru.
[10:16] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:16] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[10:16] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:16] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[10:17] <Ebiris> "Hah! Hell couldn't hold me!" Oxyite crows, batting away the attack like it was nothing with his sword, the golden-orange sphere impacting on a parked car and blasting it to bits.
[10:17] <Ebiris> Seeing Haruka is still so lively, Oxyite dashes towards her, aiming to finish her off!
[10:17] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:17] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[10:17] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:17] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[10:18] <Ebiris> But as his boot comes up to launch her skywards, Sailor Uranus deftly turns aside from the blow!
[10:19] <Sailor_Moon> "Everyone to me!" Usagi shouts, running over to Cynthia's position as she summons energy to buttress her flagging reserves. "This isn't the time!"
[10:19] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 for rejuv
[10:19] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for rejuv and gets 8."
[10:20] <Ebiris> Hoping you know what you're doing, Jupiter runs towards you, loosing off another "Jupiter Thunder Dragon!" as she does so.
[10:20] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:20] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[10:20] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:20] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[10:20] <Ebiris> Not that it seems to phase Oxyite, who zigzags around the attack like it wasn't even there.
[10:21] <Ebiris> "Shabon Spray!" Mercury cries, providing you with some cover as she follows Jupiter.
[10:21] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:21] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[10:22] <Ebiris> But the mist settles down to a low level just above the ground, offering no cover whatsoever.
[10:22] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[10:22] <Ebiris> roll 3#1d6
[10:22] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 3#1d6 and gets 5, 2, 5."
[10:22] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[10:22] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[10:22] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 18."
[10:22] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[10:23] <Ebiris> Still focusing on his very first target, Oxyite cuts out with two nasty sword swipes!
[10:23] <Ebiris> roll 2#2d6
[10:23] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2#2d6 and gets 10, 6."
[10:23] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:23] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[10:23] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[10:23] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 6."
[10:23] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[10:23] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[10:24] <Ebiris> "Yahh!" Haruka cries out in pain, the cosmic blade gouging a hole in her thigh that only just missed a major artery!
[10:24] <Sailor_Moon> "Haruka, you too!" Usagi shouts. "Over here!"
[10:25] <Ebiris> "Dammit... it's not over!" Haruka gasps, falling right in front of Oxyite as she tries once more. "World Shaking!"
[10:25] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:25] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[10:25] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:25] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[10:26] <Ebiris> From this range, Oxyite can't dodge, the blast impacting into him and knocking him several metres away from the wounded senshi of the sky. Even as he picks himself up, the energy surrounding him becomes visible to all as a raging maelstrom, threatening to overwhelm your delicate aura sense completely!
[10:27] <Sailor_Moon> "Get Uranus over here NOW!" Usagi shouts, even as she begins to chant the words of her teleportation spell - holding it until Haruka is close enough to take with her.
[10:29] <Ebiris> Nodding, Jupiter runs across the street to grab Haruka, while Mercury pants besides you, trying to collect her flagging strength.
[10:29] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:29] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[10:29] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:29] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[10:29] <Ebiris> roll 2d6+2
[10:29] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6+2 and gets 11."
[10:30] <Ebiris> Despite much protest from Haruka, Makoto is able to over power the wounded senshi and start dragging her back to rejoin the others...
[10:30] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[10:30] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[10:30] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 15."
[10:30] <Ebiris> roll 3#1d6
[10:30] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 3#1d6 and gets 1, 1, 5."
[10:30] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[10:30] * Musk-bot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[10:32] <Ebiris> "I'm not through with you yet!" Oxyite yells, charging straight at the burdened Jupiter!
[10:33] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[10:33] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[10:33] <Ebiris> But he misjudges, probably expecting her to dodge one way, missing her completely as she hurries across the road, reaching Usagi and the others.
[10:38] * Sailor_Moon finishes the last of the incantation just as Makoto and Haruka get close enough, teleporting the entire group - Cynthia included - to the warehouse where Jadeite held her family and friends captive.
[10:40] <Ebiris> Your surroundings shift, changing from the wrecked street to the interior of a packing warehouse. A man in dirty overalls taking inventory drops his clipboard at the sight of four sailor senshi and a horned girl appearing out of nowhere in front of him. "What in the...?!"
[11:36] * Sailor_Moon ignores the man for the moment, her first priority checking on Cynthia.
[11:38] <Ebiris> Cynthia looks like she's suffering from vertigo or some other severe nausea, still kneeling down and swaying rather dizzily. You can see that her aura is now almost 'neutral' in appearance, but the demonic taint is forcing its way back in quickly enough as she recovers from the shock of your Moon Healing Escalation.
[11:38] <Ebiris> "Where are we?" Mercury looks around in confusion, frowning as she registers the man's exclamation.
[11:40] <Sailor_Moon> "It's a warehouse over by the waterfront that I THOUGHT would be abandoned,"Usagi says with a slight frown, kneeling down to draw Cynthia's energy away in an attempt to knock the summoner out.
[11:40] <Ebiris> OOC: soul check
[11:41] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[11:41] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[11:44] <Ebiris> Cynthia's energy leaves her readily enough at your behest, the red-haired summoner slumping over unconscious as a football sized sphere of bloody-red energy forms above your hand. It seems to be reacting badly with your own aura, like two oppositely charged magnets, and makes your skin crawl with revulsion.
[11:45] * Sailor_Moon grimaces, letting the energy dissipate. Cynthia's energy will recover naturally on its own in time. Picking up the red-haired summoner, she slings the horned woman over her shoulder. "Come on, let's get going," she says to the others. "I just didn't want to jump straight back to Mars' place without checking on her first."
[11:46] <Ebiris> The energy dissipates, spreading out through the warehouse in a sickly miasma that causes everyone, even the worker here, to shudder in revulsion at the feeling it engenders.
[11:47] * Sailor_Moon shudders a bit at the unpleasant feeling. "I really hope we can do something for her," Usagi mutters, taking up her burden. "Are you all right, Uranus?" Usagi says as she stands, looking over at the wounded Haruka.
[11:48] <Ebiris> "I'll live," she says grimly, following you as Jupiter hurries over to assist in carrying Cynthia. The warehouse employee just stares, his weird-o-meter rather shorted out.
[11:49] * Sailor_Moon wastes no time on explanations, in a bit of a hurry to get Cynthia to a place where she can be dealt with more readily. "Let's get moving then - we can rest when we get there."
[11:50] <Ebiris> You recieve no arguments as you lead your merry little band to Hikawa Shrine. Even from this distance you can still sense Oxyite's energy radiating out massively from where the battle took place, across town.
[11:51] * Sailor_Moon grimaces as she senses the warrior's energy. "We're lucky we got out when we did," she says with a sigh. "Any more and he might have gone off."
[11:52] <Ebiris> "I just hope no one else runs into him, right now..." Ami says worriedly.
[11:53] <Sailor_Moon> "So do I... but I don't see much else we could have done. Any more damage and he might have lost control of his energy - and believe me, you do NOT want that to happen."
[11:54] <Ebiris> "Then what can we do?" Ami asks, as Haruka hangs back, a clouded expression on her face. "We have to stop him somehow. We can't just let him run wild like this."
[11:56] <Sailor_Moon> "I know we can't. But we're going to have to figure that out, and getting one or more of us killed because we don't have a plan isn't the way to do that. We've got to work something out BEFORE we try to face him - he's just too strong." The blonde sighs at that.
[11:56] <Ebiris> "I won't let him kill anyone else," Haruka speaks up quietly from behind you, grim certainty in her voice.
[11:57] <Sailor_Moon> "That goes for you too, Haruka,"  Usagi says, turning to look at the tall blonde. "I'm not letting you get killed either - we can do this without losing anyone, I'm sure of it. We just need to work out how."
[11:59] <Ebiris> "We beat him before, but the price was too high..." she replies unhappily.
[12:00] <Sailor_Moon> "I know, Haruka... I know. We just need to plan first." Usagi places a hand on the taller girl's shoulder. "I won't let him kill anyone else either."
[12:02] <Ebiris> Haruka nods, and before long the group reaches Rei's home...
[12:03] <Sailor_Moon> "Rei!" Usagi calls out, hoping the miko is at home. "We need your help!"
[12:05] <Ebiris> Said white-haired miko is waiting for you just outside her door with Minako. "You got Cynthia?" she asks, surprised as she hurries over.
[12:05] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah - she should be out for a few hours. I managed to push back the taint on her a little, but it's already starting to come back - and I don't have the energy to do much more. Think you can try an exorcism on her?"
[12:09] <Ebiris> Rei eyes the unconscious summoner warily, her own spiritual senses telling her all she needs to know. "She's not possessed," she announces after a moment. "Whatever that is... it's as much a part of her as her lungs. I can suppress it, but that's all."
[12:11] * Sailor_Moon shakes her head. "I can drive the taint out of her, but not now - fighting Oxyite and getting the rest of us out of there took everything I had left. Think you can keep a ward on her at least in case she wakes up before I can try again? I remember my Rei used some special kind of ward that made her demons attack her - don't remember the name though."
[12:13] <Ebiris> Rei frowns. "Its possible to do that, yes," she says almost distastefully. Shaking her head, "But anyway, it shouldn't be hard at all to keep her in a warded area where she can't do anything. We can use one of the spare bedrooms."
[12:14] <Sailor_Moon> "Thanks," Usagi says with a small smile. "I know it doesn't look good, but I know she can be purified - although we never managed it until just before she died back in my world."
[12:15] <Ebiris> Rei shakes her head. "You can't change what she is. She has to choose herself to neglect that part of her," she says, leading you inside as the others fill Minako in on what happened.
[12:17] <Sailor_Moon> "I understand that... but I also know she CAN change. And I have to give her the chance to do it." Usagi lowers her head a bit. "I don't want to see her die again."
[12:18] * Sailor_Moon is now known as Usagi-chan
[12:19] <Ebiris> "I understand," Rei nods sympathetically as you set Cynthia down on the floor in a spare room and Rei sets to carefully making wards around her.
[12:19] * Sailor_Moon detransforms as Rei works, standing back to make sure she's not in the way. "If there's anything I can do to help, just let me know."
[12:22] <Ebiris> Rei shakes her head. "It's quicker to just do it myself than explain enough for you to help," she says, muttering under her breath before rubbing out a symbol and redrawing it correctly.
[12:22] * Usagi-chan nods, remaining silent as she lets the miko do her work.
[12:25] <Ebiris> After about half an hour, with Cynthia still comatose, Rei steps out of the warded area. "It's done." Concentrating briefly, her wards activate, creating a field of holy power all around Cynthia. It only barely registers on your senses as the most ephemeral thing, though.
[12:26] * Usagi-chan nods. "Thanks, Rei-chan. I'll try to talk to her once she wakes up - although I expect it'll be a while." She pauses for a moment. "Will the wards block any kind of powers from working in there, or just hers?"
[12:28] <Ebiris> "They'll prevent any magic at all from functioning within the warded area," Rei affirms. "For Cynthia specifically, or anything with a similarly demonic taint, she won't be able to leave that area or interact with the wards at all."
[12:30] <Usagi-chan> "So if I try to purify her again, we'll have to take her out of the warded area," Usagi says with a slight frown. "Hopefully I can talk her through most of it before we have to try it." She shakes her head a bit. "Anyway, I think we'd better get back to the others - Cynthia won't be going anywhere for a while, and we need to talk about Oxyite."
[12:31] <Ebiris> Re

[Halbarad]

[12:41] <Usagi-chan> "There are only two things I can think of," Usagi replies. "One is getting his sword away from him - apparently that's where he draws a lot of his power. The other... is a lot riskier. We drive him to the point where he loses control, then I teleport him somewhere that the explosion won't do too much harm - and hope I can get out of the way of it myself."
[12:42] <Ebiris> "That's too dangerous!" Rei says quickly, giving you an alarmed look.
[12:43] <Usagi-chan> "I don't want to have to do it either - but I'd rather do that than let innocent bystanders get hurt by the explosion," Usagi says with a sigh. "Three people died in the explosion when he died in our world."
[12:45] <Ebiris> "There has to be some way we can stop him from exploding or limit the blast..." Minako frowns thoughtfully. "Maybe if we joined our power to make a barrier around him rather than as an attack, it could contain the blast?"
[12:46] * Usagi-chan thinks for a moment. "I know how to shape the energy to do that, but we're going to be almost completely worn out just from fighting him, too," Usagi reminds her. "It's worth thinking about, that's for sure."
[12:48] <Ebiris> "With six of us we have a much better chance of overwhelming him and doing significant damage before wearing ourselves out, though," Makoto points out, looking around at the assembled group.
[12:50] <Usagi-chan> "That's true. There were only three of us back home - me, Minako, and Rei, and I think half of it for us was just blind luck. And that's with Rei getting hurt really badly in the process, which I'm hoping we can avoid this time - for everyone."
[12:50] <Ebiris> Ami nods, frowning. "There were four of us today, but we were disorganised and didn't coordinate our attacks at all. If we actually go in with a proper plan of attack, we stand a far better chance."
[12:53] <Usagi-chan> "Which is why I had us pull back - we weren't doing much except wasting our energy. I'm sure we CAN take care of Oxyite, but ideally we need to choose where we fight - and hopefully catch him off guard, if we can."
[12:54] <Ebiris> "I'd suggest challenging him to a battle outside of Tokyo if not for the fact he'd probably just kill the messenger..." Rei sighs unhappily.
[12:55] * Usagi-chan frowns a bit. "That's... actually a good idea, if we can find him to give him a message. I can at least do that much without any risk - I can just send an illusion to carry the message. Even if he attacks it, it's not like he can hurt me that way."
[12:56] <Ebiris> "If you can do that, he might take the bait," Makoto says thoughtfully. "He's not the kind to turn down a fight."
[12:57] <Usagi-chan> "Then all that's left is figuring out how we fight him and figuring out where he is to give him the message," Usagi says.
[12:58] <Ebiris> "Well, when his energy gets going, it's not hard to figure out where he is from anywhere in Tokyo," Rei points out. "But right now he could be anywhere..."
[13:00] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah..." Usagi frowns a bit. "Is there any way you might be able to do a fire reading to find him, Rei-chan? I can try searching myself, but it's hard to sense him until I get close."
[13:00] <Ebiris> "I can try, but there aren't any guarantees," Rei nods. "Want me to do it right now?"
[13:02] * Usagi-chan thinks for a minute. "I suppose that'll work. We can deliver the challenge for another day - we're definitely not in any shape to fight him again now."
[13:02] <Ebiris> "Okay," Rei stands up. "I don't know how long this'll take," she warns, before turning and exiting the room.
[13:03] * Usagi-chan nods. "That's all right," she says to the departing miko. "While she's working on that, what do we do when we actually DO fight him?"
[13:05] <Ebiris> "I think if three of us hit him seperately from different directions to destabilise him and weaken his guard, it'd give the remaining three ample opportunity to hit him with their combined powers." Ami smiles thinly, "I don't think he's strong enough to walk away from that."
[13:07] <Usagi-chan> "I think that sounds like a good plan," Usagi nods. "I'll be better in the combined attack - I think I'm a bit stronger than most of the rest of you are, at least right now. But who will the other two be?"
[13:09] <Ebiris> "Haruka seems to be stronger than the rest of us," Ami offers, gesturing at said blonde, "And I think she'd prefer to be part of the final attack." Haruka nods grimly in reply, not saying anything.
[13:09] <Ebiris> "Guess I'll round things out, then?" Makoto offers with a shrug.
[13:12] <Usagi-chan> "Sounds good to me," Usagi says with a nod, smiling a bit. "Once we take care of Oxyite, hopefully things will settle down a bit more - he's by far the toughest of the criminals I remember fighting, although we never did fight Pytha in my world."
[13:12] <Ebiris> Minako nods. "He doesn't seem to be the confrontational type."
[13:14] <Usagi-chan> "Oh! And before I forget, I should say 'welcome aboard' to Haruka. I know this is the first time most of you guys have met her." Usagi gives the senshi of the sky a smile. "We still need to get your Talisman, too, although we'll need to talk to one of the Witches to help out with that."
[13:16] <Ebiris> Haruka nods, having been filled in by the others on events at Mugen the other day. "If the Silence isn't a threat, do we actually need the Talismans?" she asks.
[13:18] <Usagi-chan> "Need, no. But I know that everyone's found some good use for their Talismans back home, so having it where you can use it would probably be a good idea. And it keeps you in particular from being in danger if anyone else was to come along looking for it - unless they actually separate the talisman from your Heart Crystal and return it, taking it away will kill you."
[13:19] <Ebiris> Haruka idly rubs a hand over her chest. "I'd prefer it if that didn't happen," she remarks dryly.
[13:20] * Usagi-chan grins. "I can't imagine why," Usagi retorts lightly. "But there's no real hurry on that, it's just something I'd better take care of before I leave." She glances around at the other senshi in the room. "Have all the rest of you found your Talismans yet?"
[13:21] <Ebiris> Ami blinks. "I thought there were only three talismans?"
[13:22] * Usagi-chan smiles. "There are eight in total - four for the inner senshi and four for the outer senshi. It just takes three of the outers' talismans to summon the Holy Grail - but everyone here has one. Except me."
[13:23] <Ebiris> Ami looks confused, wincing at a certain memory. "But Kaolinite took my heart crystal last month - she said it wasn't a Talisman."
[13:25] * Usagi-chan nods. "Your Talismans are actually stored in the palace on the Moon - yours is a silver bracelet, Ami-chan. If it's like home, there should be one for everyone there except for Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. Uranus' is in Haruka's Heart Crystal, Neptune's is in hers, and Pluto already has hers with her."
[13:25] <Ebiris> "On the Moon?" Minako frowns, "Then wouldn't the Dark Kingdom have taken them?"
[13:26] <Usagi-chan> "No," Usagi replies. "They're in sealed chests that are impossible to get through unless you're the right senshi - or from the royal family, I think. I know I can get through all of the seals as Serenity without any problems."
[13:28] <Ebiris> "I guess we should go up and get them before fighting Oxyite, then..." the silver-haired senshi muses, leaning back thoughtfully.
[13:29] <Usagi-chan> "I agree that we should probably get them, but I don't know how much use they'll be in fighting Oxyite. It took most of the others months to unlock the attacks that went with their Talismans." Usagi says.
[13:30] <Ebiris> "Well... we'll see..." Minako says noncommitally.
[13:31] <Usagi-chan> "Either way - Talismans or not - the most important thing to do right now is rest, especially if we're going to try to take Oxyite down in the next couple of days. It's going to be a really tough fight no matter what we do."
[13:33] <Ebiris> "You're right, I guess we should go home for now," Ami agrees, rising. "Do you want me to walk you home, Haruka-san?" she asks the injured girl.
[13:33] <Ebiris> "Far be it from me to refuse the request of a pretty girl," Haruka grins rogueishly, prompting an embarrassed blush from Ami as she gets up.
[13:34] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit at that. "Careful, Ami, she'll charm your socks off if you don't watch her every minute," Usagi says with a wink to the blue-haired girl.
[13:35] <Ebiris> "Only her socks?" Haruka teases, which proves to be too much for the flustered Ami.
[13:35] <Ebiris> "Oh... you can walk home yourself!" she mutters, scurrying out the door.
[13:36] * Usagi-chan laughs. "Poor Ami-chan," she says between giggles. "Anyway, take care of yourself, Haruka. I'll give you a call when we know where and when, okay?"
[13:37] <Ebiris> "Thanks," Haruka nods, her mood seemingly improved from teasing Ami as she walks out the door, Makoto waving and following herself.
[13:37] <Ebiris> Minako stands up last, giving a longing look in the direction of the fire-reading room. "I... suppose I should go home, too..." she says sadly.
[13:38] <Usagi-chan> "You want some company?" Usagi offers.
[13:38] <Ebiris> Minako blinks, obviously caught off guard by that. "What?" she asks quietly.
[13:39] * Usagi-chan shrugs. "Would you like some company on your way home?" Usagi repeats.
[13:39] <Ebiris> "Aren't you going to wait for Rei-chan to finish her fire reading?" the silver-haired girl asks, plainly confused.
[13:40] <Usagi-chan> "It'll probably be a while, and I can always come back after you make it home," Usagi says. "I don't have to be here the exact minute she gets done - and with the shape she's usually in after she finishes a fire reading, she'll probably want a little time to get cleaned up anyway. It's no big deal."
[13:42] <Ebiris> "If... if you want to, I won't stop you," Minako finally says at last, heading for the door and putting her shoes on.
[13:42] * Usagi-chan nods, following Minako to the shrine's front door and following suit.
[13:44] <Ebiris> Minako walks slowly out of the Shrine, not feeling very talkative, it seems.
[13:46] * Usagi-chan stays by the silver-haired girl's side as the two walk, letting the silence lie dormant. It's likely only a matter of time before Minako decides to fill it...
[13:47] <Ebiris> Minako glances at you out the corner of her eye a few times, seemingly uncomfortable. But she remains silent, even as you reach the halfway point between her house and the Shrine.
[13:47] * Usagi-chan notes the surreptitious glances, finally deciding to give the girl an opening herself. "Something on your mind, Mina-chan?" she asks.
[13:49] <Ebiris> Minako sighs heavily. "I... don't know what to say," she admits at last.
[13:50] * Usagi-chan shrugs a bit. "Why not start with how you feel?"
[13:53] <Ebiris> "Confused," she admits, plainly enough. "I don't want to lose Rei-chan, but... she's seemed so much better today than she's been in a long time." She hangs her head, ashamed. "You were right, Usagi-chan. I haven't been helping her. I can't." A few tears begin forming around her golden eyes as she goes on, "But I still don't want to lose her..."
[13:57] * Usagi-chan stops, taking Minako's hand. "I know you don't, Mina-chan. I'm hoping that after talking to her last night she's finally turned the corner - she's seemed better to me today, too, at least a lot better than I've seen her since I first got here." She turns the silver-haired senshi to face her. "There's no shame in not being able to help her, Mina-chan - sometimes there just isn't anything you can do yourself. There's nothing wrong with that."
[14:01] <Ebiris> "It's not fair," she sniffs forlornly. "We love each other, I should be able to help her. But you've done more in a day than I've done in nearly a year."
[14:02] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "It's just because I know her a bit better than you do. I've known her longer - and your Rei thinks pretty much the same way mine does, she's just been through different things than the one I know."
[14:10] <Ebiris> Minako wraps her arms around her body as she continues walking along miserably. "I thought you being here would only hurt her even more after what happened..." she gives a sharp, bitter laugh. "I always mess things up."
[14:13] <Usagi-chan> "No, you don't," Usagi says. "She's still here, and to me that says a lot. I remember what Rei was like right after we defeated Metallia. Maybe you haven't done everything perfectly since then - but I wouldn't have either. No one always gets everything right."
[14:14] <Ebiris> "Of course, I screwed up in your world as well, didn't I?" she asks. "Rei-chan did pick you over me, after all."
[14:16] * Usagi-chan sighs. "What happened in my world is a completely different story, and I don't really think it matters here," the blonde says. "A lot of things happened to make what happened there happen, and I doubt it'll happen again here."
[14:19] <Ebiris> "No..." she sighs. "For a start, you're not staying. But even if she doesn't have her Usagi-chan... she'll probably decide she's happier alone than with me."
[14:20] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "You don't know that, Mina-chan. I don't know it, either. I'm not even sure Rei knows what she wants to do yet."
[14:23] <Ebiris> "I guess all I can do is... give her her space..." Minako snorts, kicking a convenient rock on the pavement. "Who knows, maybe it'll even help me?" she adds in a tone that makes it clear she disagrees.
[14:25] <Usagi-chan> "I think it will," Usagi says quietly. "You need to have time to be your own person, just like Rei does. At home, I don't try to spend every spare minute I have with Rei, although I do really enjoy the time we DO spend together. I like being able to do my own things sometimes - and so does she."
[14:27] <Ebiris> She sighs, "I guess... I can play videogames or something." She sticks her tongue out, "Or maybe once this stupid Oxyite mess is over, Full Moon can make her comeback or something..." For some reason she looks even sadder at that idea.
[14:28] * Usagi-chan goes rather solemn at the mention of Full Moon, not making any reply to that.
[14:28] <Ebiris> Minako just seems lost in her own depressing thoughts, allowing a heavy silence to settle over the two of you.
[14:31] <Usagi-chan> "Mina-chan, I... wish I knew what to tell you. I can't promise everything's going to be perfect from here, but I know that if you want things to work out from here you're going to have to work at it yourself. Rei isn't the only one who needs to change."
[14:32] <Ebiris> "That's what Rei-chan said..." Minako sighs. "I just wish I knew how..."
[14:33] <Usagi-chan> "You already know part of it - you've got to learn to give Rei her own space. You can't let everything you do revolve around her."
[14:36] <Ebiris> "But I love her!" Minako protests plaintatively. "She means the world to me, and showing that isn't supposed to be a bad thing!"
[14:38] <Usagi-chan> "That doesn't mean she BECOMES your world, Mina-chan," Usagi says calmly. "I love my own Rei with all my heart - but that doesn't mean that I don't still love all my friends, and my family, and the things I do every day. It's not all Rei."
[14:40] <Ebiris> "I love my Mama and Papa, and Artemis, and Ami and Makoto," Minako offers weakly. "But none of them make me feel the way Rei-chan does."
[14:42] <Usagi-chan> "That doesn't mean you can't find happiness from them in other ways. I love to go out on a date with Rei - but I love to go see movies with my family, or drag Ami off to go shopping, or going over to Mako-chan's for dinner. Having a variety of things to enjoy makes them all better - that way I don't get tired of any one thing."
[14:43] <Ebiris> "I'd never get tired of Rei-chan!" Minako replies quickly.
[14:44] <Usagi-chan> "You would," Usagi says calmly. "Because she'd get tired of spending time with you, and it wouldn't feel very special if she wasn't paying attention to you any more. You both need space sometimes."
[14:45] <Ebiris> "Maybe..." Minako says dubiously, letting it drop since she senses arguing about it won't go anywhere.
[14:46] * Usagi-chan shakes her head a bit. 'She's still got a long ways to go,' Usagi thinks with a sigh.
[14:47] <Ebiris> Minako doesn't volunteer anything else, letting silence resume as the two of you reach her house...
[14:48] * Usagi-chan gives the silver-haired girl a small smile. "Hope you rest well, Mina-chan. I'll see you later, okay?"
[14:49] <Ebiris> She nods, smiling wanly. "Bye, Usagi-chan. And... thanks. Even if I don't understand it all right now, I know you're trying to help me and Rei-chan."
[14:50] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit more. "I really am, Mina-chan. I only want the best - for both of you." She gives the other girl a wave before turning to head back towards the Shrine.
[14:50] <Ebiris> Returning to the Shrine without incident, you find Rei in the front room, drinking a cup of tea. "Hi, Usagi," she greets you, looking vaguely irritated.
[14:51] <Usagi-chan> "No luck?" Usagi says with a slight frown, noticing Rei's slightly angry expression.
[14:51] <Ebiris> "Sorry," she says apologetically. "I didn't get anything useful."
[14:52] * Usagi-chan smiles. "That's okay... at least you tried." She settles down in a chair, taking a deep sigh. "I swear, the worst part of being a senshi is that it seems like there's never any chance to rest."
[14:54] <Ebiris> "Not when it's busy like this," Rei nods, sighing. "Hopefully after Oxyite things'll calm down."
[14:54] <Usagi-chan> "I sure hope so. I still have to figure out who or what brought me here," Usagi says, slumping in her chair. "Ptilol told me this morning that it can't have been an accident."
[14:56] <Ebiris> "I wouldn't have expected it to be," Rei nods. "But you won't see me complaining about it, not with all the help you've given us."
[14:58] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly at that. "Thanks - I'm just glad I've been ABLE to help. And it's not so bad here, it's just that I miss my family." She looks a bit sad at that.
[14:59] <Ebiris> Rei nods understandingly. "I'm sure you'll find a way home soon enough," she offers supportively.
[14:59] <Usagi-chan> "I hope so," Usagi says, a rather distant look on her face. 'What I wouldn't give to be able to see Rei and Chibi Usa right now...' she thinks to herself.
[15:02] <Ebiris> As if in answer to your unspoken thought, Ptilol appears in the middle of the room, accompanied by Rei, this time. Both visitors peer at the native Rei for a moment, noting the differences.
[15:02] * Usagi-chan looks up, startled out of her reverie. "Rei-chan?" she says, her expression brightening up almost immediately.
[15:04] <Ebiris> "Hey..." Rei responds, a little bit distracted by the sight of her counterpart, and Chibi Usa's shocked exclamation that only she can hear.
[15:04] <Ebiris> Other Rei, for her part, just sighs. "Ugh... I really have let myself go, haven't I?" she notes, quite aware of the differences she can see herself.
[15:06] * Usagi-chan nods to the white-haired Rei sadly. "That's part of why I was so shocked when I first saw you here," she says. "I'm sure you'll be back to your old self soon, though," she finishes with a smile.
[15:08] <Ebiris> "I hope so..." white-haired Rei shakes her head. "Anyway, don't let me bother you. This is your reunion, after all," she gestures between you and her counterpart.
[15:08] <Ebiris> "Uh... yeah..." Rei tears her attention away from her gaunt counterpart. "How're you holding up, Usagi?"
[15:09] * Usagi-chan turns to the transparent image of her own Rei, a broad smile on her face. "I've missed you a lot, Rei-chan. You wouldn't believe how busy things have been since I got here, though. They were dealing with both the Deathbusters AND the criminals when I arrived."
[15:10] <Ebiris> Rei smirks. "Yeah, and I heard the Deathbusters aren't an issue any longer, thanks to you."
[15:10] * Usagi-chan giggles. "It helps when you have inside information," she replies with a grin. "Anyway, how are things going at home?"
[15:12] <Ebiris> "We're all holding up well enough," Rei shrugs. "It's annoying that I can't really help much in figuring out how to bring you back - I'm just lost on the scientific aspects of it."
[15:14] <Usagi-chan> "You and me both," Usagi says glumly. "The Professor here said he'd look into it, but I get the impression that he might not have done as much as our Professor has. Our biggest problem right now seems to be Oxyite - we're trying to track him down so we can challenge him to a fight outside of Tokyo. I don't want a repeat of what happened when we killed him."
[15:15] <Ebiris> "Oxyite?" Rei's expression turns stern. "You be careful, Usagi. He's DANGEROUS."
[15:16] * Usagi-chan frowns. "You don't have to tell me twice, I remember what it was like fighting him. We've got a plan to deal with him, but first we've got to call him out somehow - and that means finding him. Which is probably what I'll spend most of tomorrow working on."
[15:17] <Ebiris> "Just don't get hurt," Rei asks earnestly, her image beginning to waver slightly.
[15:17] <Usagi-chan> "I'll do my best. I love you, Rei-chan," Usagi says with a smile, seeing that Rei is already starting to fade a bit.
[15:19] <Ebiris> "I love you too, Usagi," Rei smiles, her eyelids starting to droop. "I think we need a lot more practice at this..." she adds, suppressing a yawn before she vanishes.
[15:20] * Usagi-chan can't help a smile from creeping across her face as Rei passes out. "Do you have any other news, Ptilol?" Usagi asks.
[15:21] <Ebiris> Ptilol shakes her head, "It's as Rei said, we're still working, but no definite progress has been made. We only visited right now so Rei could see you."
[15:21] <Usagi-chan> "Thanks for bringing her," Usagi says with a smile. "It was really good to get to see her. Let me know if you come up with anything, all right?"
[15:22] <Ebiris> "We will," Ptilol smiles, before vanishing.
[15:22] * Usagi-chan takes a deep breath, the smile still on her face. 'I'll be home soon,' she thinks to herself.
[15:25] <Ebiris> "Well, she at least seems to be doing well for herself..." Rei observes as your two guests depart.
[15:27] * Anastasia is now known as Ana-brb
[15:28] * Usagi-chan smiles. "She is doing really well these days," Usagi agrees. "Things were pretty rough for her for a few months after Metallia, but ever since we took care of the Deathbusters she's been doing great - completely back to her old self, except that she doesn't yell at me quite as much," she says with a grin.
[15:29] <Ebiris> Rei snorts. "Well, you haven't really been acting much like a ditz since you've been here."
[15:32] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I try not to... wouldn't be proper, after all," she says in a lofty tone. Grinning, she plops back down in her chair. "Any plans for dinner? I'm just about starving - all I had for lunch was some okonomiyaki, and it's been really busy since then."
[15:33] <Ebiris> Rei frowns. "Minako normally cooks for me... I guess it'll have to be curry unless you've picked up any culinary skills?"
[15:34] <Usagi-chan> "Curry's fine," Usagi says with a smile. "Just lots of it!"
[15:37] <Ebiris> ---------
[15:38] <Ebiris> The next morning you wake up... of course, 2am is a bit earlier than you usually rouse. The sound of frenzied screaming and cursing in Lunarian from the next room making for a definite change of pace.
[15:39] * Usagi-chan scrambles out of bed in her borrowed pajamas, heading for the source of the commotion - and quite aware of what it is, too.
[15:41] <Ebiris> Rei also staggers out of her own room, bleary eyed and pissed as she follows you to Cynthia's room. Inside you find the summoner throwing herself against the invisible barrier sealing her within the wards, although she stops that as soon as she sees you. "Serenity! Betrayer!" she yells furiously, her eyes glowing dull red before Rei flips the light-switch on.
[15:42] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I didn't betray you, Cynthia. I did all I could to help you - and I STILL want to help you," she says calmly.
[15:43] <Ebiris> "Shut up!" she snaps, pushing against the unyielding barrier that keeps her confined. "When I get out of here, you'll pay! You and that bitch, Mars!" she adds, noting Rei's presence.
[15:45] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Fine then. When you're willing to listen, we'll talk - but you're not going anywhere until then." She turns as if to leave.
[15:46] <Ebiris> "Yes, turn your back on me!" she jeers, "Just like you did before, traitorous slut! You'll get what you deserve, I promise you that!"
[15:47] * Usagi-chan simply walks away, trying hard not to rise to the taunting.
[15:48] <Ebiris> Rei stays behind, sensing that she won't get any sleep tonight unless Cynthia calms down, one way or another. "Cynthia, shut up," she sighs. "You think this sort of infantile wailing is going to impress anyone?"
[15:49] * Usagi-chan turns around once she's out of Cynthia's range of vision, watching the miko and the summoner interact.
[15:49] <Ebiris> Cynthia's head whips around to study Rei. "You'll join her in the pit, Rei. You and all the rest," she swears. "I haven't forgotten what you did to me."
[15:50] <Ebiris> Rei frowns. "You're alive, aren't you? From where I'm standing, you've got no reason to complain."
[15:51] <Ebiris> "From where you stand," Cynthia sneers, looking Rei up and down. "What if our positions were reversed? I see you carry a taint of the abyss yourself." She gestures to the horns on her head, "Your hair wasn't white before, as I remember."
[15:52] * Usagi-chan tenses, waiting to see how Rei will react.
[15:53] <Ebiris> Rei clenches her fists, visibly fighting to remain calm. "That's in the past. It's not who I am, now."
[15:53] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling a bit. "Hold on to that, Rei-chan," she murmurs.
[15:54] <Ebiris> "Liar!" Cynthia barks. "Your soul is as doomed as mine. Even if I don't send you to hell personally, it'll hold onto you and drag you down when your time comes." She smirks haughtily, "I heard all about Metallia from Jadeite. Her cold fingers still clench around your heart, don't they?"
[15:56] * Usagi-chan keeps her eyes on Rei, silently sending her support to the miko. This is a battle she needs to fight alone in some ways.
[15:57] <Ebiris> "No," Rei says tightly, looking immensely pissed off. "That's not true, Cynthia. I turned my back on Metallia, and she's dead now, anyway."
[15:58] <Ebiris> Cynthia snorts, disgusted. "Your words are as weak and pitiful as you are. You can hide from it, perhaps, but it doesn't change the reality."
[16:00] <Usagi-chan> 'You know what the truth is, Rei-chan,' Usagi thinks. 'Don't let her get to you.'
[16:01] <Ebiris> The grinding of Rei's teeth is audible even where you are, as she fights to keep her calm. "You don't understand, Cynthia. You're just blinded by the demonic taint you embraced, showing you the very worst in everything."
[16:03] <Ebiris> Cynthia just smirks, sensing that she's rattled Rei good. "I understand the true nature of things. And I'd show them to you if not for these bindings."
[16:04] <Usagi-chan> "You don't understand anything," Usagi says, returning to the doorway. "All you understand is revenge for something that didn't even happen."
[16:05] <Ebiris> Cynthia turns her attention from Rei, while the miko takes a deep, shuddering breath. "I don't need to hear your words, Serenity," she says coldly. "I called you friend and look where it got me."
[16:06] <Usagi-chan> "You're still alive, Cynthia," Usagi replies. "I did everything in my power to make sure you would be - everyone was calling for your head."
[16:09] <Ebiris> "Sentencing me to a living death in that cold prison is hardly what I'd call merciful," Cynthia replies angrily. "But of course, you couldn't go against your Mother, could you? Certainly not for your 'best friend' Cynthia."
[16:10] <Usagi-chan> "You think I didn't try?" Usagi shoots back. "You think I WANTED to see you thrown into that prison? I would have given everything I had if I could have saved you from that - but Mother had to do something, and prison was a heck of a lot better than death as far as I was concerned. I always hoped for the day when you could be let out again - but then the Kingdom fell."
[16:11] <Ebiris> "And a pity I wasn't there to see it!" Cynthia snaps back.
[16:14] * Usagi-chan narrows her eyes at that. "Why are you so bitter, Cynthia? You expect everyone to be able to just look past what you did? I wish what had happened to you hadn't had to happen, but it did. And I'm willing to call things even - more than even, if you'd just stop with that stupid summoning!"
[16:17] <Ebiris> "Stop?" the black-robed woman repeats. "I'll only stop when I too reside in the darkest pits of hell!"
[16:17] <Usagi-chan> "Why?!" Usagi says. "Why is that what you WANT? The Cynthia *I* knew would never have wanted that - for herself or anyone else! Look at what this has done to you!"
[16:19] <Ebiris> "I see things clearer now than I ever did before!" Cynthia crows. "I don't expect your meagre viewpoint to comprehend the grand scope of my vision!"
[16:21] <Usagi-chan> "No, you don't," Usagi says quietly. "You're seeing whatever those demons want you to see. They're just using you, Cynthia - they don't care about you at all."
[16:22] <Ebiris> "You're one to talk, betrayer!" she snarls. "Using my friendship and then casting me to the wolves when it became convenient to do so! I'll see you burn in hell for that, Serenity!"
[16:23] <Usagi-chan> "How did I 'use' your friendship, Cynthia?" Usagi asks. "All I remember was the two of us having fun together when we were kids - that's not using you, that's what friendship IS."
[16:24] <Ebiris> "And friends don't betray each other!" she replies hotly.
[16:25] <Usagi-chan> "And I never betrayed you! I told you I did everything I could - if I hadn't, you'd be dead now! Is that what you WANTED?" Usagi fires back.
[16:29] <Ebiris> "If there's anything I can thank you for it's the fact that I'm out of it now and can take my revenge," she sneers. "Unless you're going to have your bitch kill me, now?" she gestures to Rei, who looks rather displeased with that epithet.
[16:30] * Usagi-chan just shakes her head. "I can't watch you die... not again," she whispers. "Not when I know you can change." With that, she hurries back to her bedroom, fighting back tears.
[16:31] <Ebiris> Inside your room you can hear Rei and Cynthia continuing to converse unhappily, their voices too indistinct for you to actually make much content out.
[16:33] * Usagi-chan takes a seat on the edge of her bed, letting the tears come. "Cynthia... what's happened to you?" she sobs.
[16:35] <Ebiris> No answers present themselves, and about five minutes later, Rei and Cynthia both seem to shut up. A moment later, your door opens, Rei poking her head in. "Hey..."
[16:37] * Usagi-chan glances up at Rei, her face streaked with tears.
[16:38] <Ebiris> Rei comes in, sitting down next to you. "She reminds me a lot of how I was, with Metallia..." the miko remarks conversationally.
[16:39] <Usagi-chan> "I know.... but you at least were willing to listen to what we were saying," Usagi sniffles. "I could still see you inside. Cynthia... I'm almost not sure. I KNOW there has to be something left of her, but..."
[16:41] <Ebiris> "She's had a very long time for her bitterness to settle in on her..." Rei sighs. "It'd take something really big to shock her out of this, I think."
[16:41] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I don't want it to take what it took the last time," the blonde whispers.
[16:43] <Ebiris> "She has to want to change. Just keeping her locked up here isn't going to give her any opportunity for that, though."
[16:44] <Usagi-chan> "What else can we do, though?" Usagi says. "We can't just let her go, she'll try to open another gate sooner or later - and god only knows how many people will die this time. I want to help her, but I don't know how."
[16:45] <Ebiris> "If you really believe in her... let her know it. Don't give up on her..." Rei looks away, thoughtfully. "If you show her that you have faith in her, she might just find a little herself."
[16:46] <Usagi-chan> "I'm going to do my best," Usagi says, wiping her eyes. "I just hope I can get through to her."
[16:48] <Ebiris> "So do I," Rei gives your shoulder a squeeze, standing up, "So do I."
[16:49] * Usagi-chan gives the miko a small smile. "Thanks, Rei-chan. I'll see you in the morning."
[16:49] <Ebiris> "Sleep well," Rei offers, heading out of the room and to her own bed.
[16:51] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I'll try," Usagi whispers, not at all confident about the odds of that.
[16:52] <Ebiris> Curling up in bed, you nonetheless do drift off into a fitful sleep, plagued by dreams of Cynthia's demise... and her words at the end, showing that she is not beyond redemption.
[16:52] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:52] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[16:52] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[16:52] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:53] <Ebiris> The next morning, you wake up, shortly after the sun rises. Far too early for your liking...
[16:55] * Usagi-chan groans as she rolls out of bed, rubbing her eyes - the sleep she got didn't help much. Stumbling down the hallway of the shrine, she heads for the kitchen, looking for a glass of water.
[16:56] <Ebiris> Water is easily procured. No sign of Rei as you make your way to the kitchen.
[16:57] * Usagi-chan takes a drink of her water, heading to the miko's bedroom - she's not going to disturb Rei if she's still asleep, but she wouldn't mind the company if she's not.
[16:58] <Ebiris> Cracking open the door to Rei's room, you see a mass of white hair sticking out from under the lumpy sheets, light snoring coming from that direction.
[17:00] * Usagi-chan closes the door, heading back to the living room where she settles down on the couch - idly wondering why she hasn't seen anything of Gramps since she arrived. The time it takes to finish her glass of water is enough time to realize she's not going to get any more sleep this morning, so she goes to check on Cynthia, wondering if the summoner also fell asleep for the remainder of the night.
[17:02] <Ebiris> Indeed, Cynthia lies curled up on the floor, sleeping soundly. And... well, that's odd. There looks to be more symbols within the warded area that you didn't see earlier... written in red ink?
[17:03] * Usagi-chan frowns, suspecting Cynthia of being up to something - but she has no idea what. From the doorway, she tries to get a better look at the symbols - and whether they're having any effect on the wards at all.
[17:04] <Ebiris> They seem inert, no different than anything you'd doodle on the walls if you had a mind to, really. Although... do you smell blood?
[17:06] * Usagi-chan grimaces, heading over to the linen closet to get a couple of cloths. Dampening both, she takes them into the summoner's room, keeping quiet as she uses the first to clean the symbols off the floor - making sure not to disturb any of Rei's wards in the process.
[17:06] <Ebiris> OOC: Body check, -6 (don't klutz out with a 12)
[17:06] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6-6
[17:06] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6-6 and gets -1."
[17:08] <Ebiris> Working your way around the perimeter, you manage to clean up Cynthia's bloody handiwork without incident. As you finish up, you note the young Summoner seeming to grow a bit more restless in her sleep, mumbling something almost inaudibly.
[17:10] * Usagi-chan sets the bloodied cloth down on the floor, picking up the clean one as she approaches Cynthia - both to listen to what she's saying and to look for where she cut herself to get the blood.
[17:12] <Ebiris> "Sere... mph..." she mumbles, shuddering slightly. "Don'... me..." It's hard to really make much out, really. A cursory visual inspection doesn't reveal any injuries you can see.
[17:13] <Usagi-chan> "I won't leave you, Cynthia," Usagi says quietly, restraining the urge to touch her long-ago friend. "I'll be here for you until we can get you back to your old self again."
[17:14] <Ebiris> Cynthia makes a mumbled noise of contentment, quieting down once more.
[17:15] * Usagi-chan leaves the clean cloth on the table, taking the bloodied one to the laundry before heading to the kitchen to at least attempt to cook. She searches through the cupboards, hoping Rei at least has the ingredients to make pancakes - she can do those passably well, at least.
[17:18] <Ebiris> You find a few eggs and some butter, but no flour or baking soda...
[17:19] * Usagi-chan checks the time - if it's not TOO early, she might be able to find a supermarket that's open and be back before the others wake up.
[17:22] <Ebiris> It's just after six. There is an all-night store not too far from the Shrine, as you recall.
[17:23] * Usagi-chan quickly heads back to her room and changes into her clothes before heading off to the store - a pancake breakfast would be a nice surprise for everyone.
[17:25] <Ebiris> Ingredients are easily procured, and you're soon whipping up a batch of pancakes in the kitchen, the smell of which draws Rei forth from her own bed. "What are you making?" she asks, sniffing as she enters the kitchen.
[17:25] <Usagi-chan> "Pancakes," Usagi says with a smile. "At least I hope so - I've only made them a couple of times before, but they turned out pretty good both times."
[17:26] <Ebiris> "Smells nice," Rei observes. "I'll just go get cleaned up before breakfast, then," she adds, heading off to the bathroom.
[17:30] * Usagi-chan continues her work, a cheery smile on her face - it feels good to be doing something to 'earn her keep'. Before long, she's amassed a good-sized stack of hot pancakes, settled on a plate next to the stove.
[17:31] <Ebiris> Rei returns, cleaned up and dressed in her T*A uniform before too long. That short skirt sure doesn't do her any favours, you note, unlike your own Rei. "They ready?" she asks, eyeing the stack of pancakes.
[17:32] <Usagi-chan> "Ready as they'll ever be," the blonde replies with a smile. "Take as many as you want."
[17:33] <Ebiris> "Thanks," Rei replies, taking three of them and spreading them with strawberry jam and butter before eating them. "So, what's the plan for today?" she asks, mid-meal.
[17:34] <Usagi-chan> "After Cynthia and I eat, I'm probably just going to patrol around on the rooftops for today, looking for any signs of Oxyite or any of the others. Without knowing where they are, there's not a whole lot we can do about them." Usagi replies.
[17:36] <Ebiris> "At least miss Sunshine kept quiet last night," Rei sighs. "I was half expecting she'd be screaming and cursing right through till morning."
[17:37] <Usagi-chan> "She's not having pleasant dreams though," Usagi says with a slight frown. "And she painted some kind of symbols in blood during the night - although I cleaned them all up when I woke up this morning."
[17:39] <Ebiris> "She did?" Rei frowns, setting down her last pancake and going through to Cynthia's room.
[17:39] * Usagi-chan follows along behind Rei. "I'm pretty sure I got all of it, and I didn't touch any of your wards."
[17:41] <Ebiris> "It's still intact, yeah," Rei nods. "But if she can make counterwards... might be a bad idea to leave her alone, here." Sighing, "Besides which, it's really not realistic to keep her confined like this for any great length of time."
[17:42] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Looks like my plans for the day have changed, then. I'll stay here to keep an eye on her - helping her is more important than finding Oxyite."
[17:43] <Ebiris> "You're sure?" Rei gives you a serious look. "I know she upset you a lot, last night. I can take the day off school to watch her myself."
[17:44] <Usagi-chan> "It's all right, I can manage," Usagi says with a slight smile. "I'm not going to give up on her, no matter what she does or what she calls me."
[17:45] <Ebiris> "If you're sure," Rei says dubiously, giving the slumbering Cynthia once last glance before going to resume her breakfast.
[17:46] <Usagi-chan> "Do you have plastic silverware anywhere?" Usagi asks as the two return to the kitchen. "I'm going to take her some pancakes too, but I'd rather not give her anything she can use to hurt herself - or me."
[17:48] <Ebiris> Rei shakes her head. "She'll just have to eat them with her hands, I guess. Besides, if she had any utensil she could use it to deface my bindings," Rei gestures to her own circle of symbols.
[17:49] <Usagi-chan> "Guess we'll have to make do, then," Usagi says with a shrug. "I'm going to eat with her."
[17:51] <Ebiris> "Just be careful with her," Rei advises, finishing off her last pancake.
[17:51] <Usagi-chan> "I will,"  Usagi says, getting a couple of plates ready for herself and Cynthia. "Have a good day at school today, Rei-chan," she says with a smile.
[17:54] <Ebiris> And so, Rei goes off to school, leaving Usagi with a comatose Demon Summoner from the Silver Millenium for company... until about half an hour after Rei leaves when Cynthia finally begins to stir.
[17:56] * Usagi-chan picks up the two plates, having already dressed them with jam and butter. "Morning, Cynthia," Usagi says with a smile. "I've got breakfast for you."
[18:01] <Ebiris> Pushing herself up, Cynthia looks at you, her nose twitching briefly. "I'd rather flay the flesh from your bones than eat with you, Serenity," she says coldly.
[18:02] * Usagi-chan grins. "Sorry, all I've got are pancakes. But I don't think they're toxic," Usagi replies, acting like Cynthia made a perfectly normal reply as she enters the room. "Only the third time I've made them though, so eat at your own risk."
[18:03] <Ebiris> Cynthia continues eyeing you balefully, making no move to take said pancakes as she puzzles over your demeanour.
[18:05] * Usagi-chan sets Cynthia's plate down on the table next to the summoner before settling on the other side and starting in on her own breakfast. "Sorry I don't have anything to eat them with, but I saw the blood this morning - I didn't want you to hurt yourself again. If you'll let me know where you're hurt, I'll clean it up and bandage it after breakfast."
[18:07] <Ebiris> Cynthia narrows her eyes. "What's your game, Serenity?" she asks coldly.
[18:08] <Usagi-chan> "What game?" Usagi says guilelessly. "You're still my friend, Cynthia - why shouldn't I treat you like one?"
[18:09] <Ebiris> "Because these bindings," she gestures at Rei's wards, "Are the only thing keeping you alive, right now."
[18:10] * Usagi-chan shrugs. "I could keep myself alive if they weren't there, although I'll admit it's a lot easier to talk to you this way. And even if they weren't there - even if you were trying to kill me - I'd still be your friend."
[18:11] <Ebiris> "Just like you'd be my friend if I was trapped in that crystal prison for all eternity?" she sneers, not buying it.
[18:12] <Usagi-chan> "No matter where you are or what you're doing, you're still my friend," Usagi says pleasantly enough. "Come on, have some pancakes - they're already starting to get cold, I didn't want to wake you when they were ready."
[18:13] <Ebiris> "I'm not hungry," Cynthia replies. "Stop playing games, Serenity."
[18:14] <Usagi-chan> "I already told you, I'm not playing games. I mean every word I'm saying." Usagi says, taking another bite of her pancakes. "Not bad," she says with a smile.
[18:16] <Ebiris> Cynthia growls low in her throat. "Stop mocking me, Serenity."
[18:18] * Usagi-chan gives the red-haired woman a serious look. "I'm not. I felt like making breakfast today for everyone and I'd LIKE to enjoy a meal with a friend that I haven't seen in a long time. I can't MAKE you eat, and I can't make you be nice, even if I'd like to see both. But I'm not going to hide from you, and I'm not going to hurt you, either."
[18:21] <Ebiris> Cynthia glances at the pancakes, and you get the impression that she's actually fighting to keep a smile off her lips. "With your cooking they'd probably poison me."
[18:22] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I hope not... Rei didn't complain too much, at least, and they seem okay to me."
[18:24] <Ebiris> The horned woman eyes you warily, but after a moment finally reaches out to take a pancake, biting into it.
[18:24] <Usagi-chan> "So what's the verdict?" Usagi says with a smile.
[18:26] <Ebiris> "Better than your last attempt at cooking," she allows, still eyeing you suspiciously.
[18:27] * Usagi-chan knits her brows. "What WAS the last thing I tried to cook for you?" she wonders.
[18:28] <Ebiris> "A three-layer sponge cake," she answers. "It looked safe enough, too," she adds, frowning at the memory. But it's not the hateful kind of frown she's been giving you up till now.
[18:30] * Usagi-chan winces. "I bet it did," she says with a grimace. "That's the way my cooking USUALLY turns out - looks great, goes down like it's made of concrete. But I've managed to do okay with curry and pancakes in this lifetime - just don't ask me to do much else." She makes a face at that.
[18:32] <Ebiris> Cynthia opens her mouth as if to ask something else, before abruptly snapping it closed as she seems to remember herself. "Yes... things are never what they seem with you, Serenity," she says at last, sullenly.
[18:34] <Usagi-chan> "Only with my cooking," Usagi says with a smile. "With everything else, what you see is what you get. I usually trip over myself if I try to do anything too complicated."
[18:36] <Ebiris> "So you say..." Cynthia says dubiously, her expression not giving much away.
[18:38] <Usagi-chan> "Oh come on, you KNOW that's true. I never even got told about surprise parties after that one I ruined for Ami-chan's tenth birthday - I couldn't even keep the secret for three days." Usagi grins wryly.
[18:39] <Ebiris> "We're hardly the same innocent young girls we once were, Serenity," your companion remarks coldly, crossing her arms over her chest.
[18:43] <Usagi-chan> "I suppose not," Usagi says with a distant smile. "But I'm finding out that people really don't change all that much where it counts." Glancing over at Cynthia's plate. "You done with breakfast? There's a towel over on the table behind you if you want to clean up a little."
[18:44] <Ebiris> "Actually, I need to go to the bathroom," Cynthia informs you, guaging your reaction carefully.
[18:48] <Usagi-chan> "Then I'll bring in something you can use in just a minute," Usagi says. "I wish I could let you out, but I don't know if I can trust you yet. Maybe later today."
[18:49] <Ebiris> Cynthia snorts. "Of course," she says, unsurprised on the first part and disbelieving on the second.
[18:52] * Usagi-chan gives Cynthia an apologetic look. "I know it'll get better, Cynthia," the blonde says, picking up both plates. "I'll take care of your cut after you get done using the bathroom, okay?"
[18:53] <Ebiris> "Don't bother," she sighs, "It's healed."
[18:55] <Usagi-chan> "Well, that would explain why I couldn't see anything when I checked you earlier this morning," Usagi says. "I'll be back in a minute, okay?" Taking the two plates to the kitchen, she hunts around the shrine for anything that Cynthia could use as a chamber pot - that Rei wouldn't kill her for putting to that use.
[18:58] <Ebiris> Well... there's a bucket in the cleaning supplies cupboard? Unless Cynthia's waste matter is teeming with demonic energy, then surely no one would ever know once you rinse it out? It's already fairly grimy, anyway.
[18:59] * Usagi-chan shrugs and grabs the bucket, taking it back into Cynthia's room. She sets it down next to the bed, nodding to the summoner. "Just let me know when you're done and I'll come empty it," she says, although she can't help but wrinkle her nose at the idea. Not exactly what she was expecting to do today.
[19:00] <Ebiris> Cynthia doesn't look entirely thrilled herself, waiting for you to leave the room before she gets to her business. "Done..." her sullen voice comes out of the room a moment later.
[19:02] * Usagi-chan returns to the room, trying not to look TOO upset about having to take care of the rather dirty job. She simply takes the bucket to the bathroom as quickly as possible, rinsing it out once it's been emptied. And then washing her hands.
[19:04] <Ebiris> Cynthia is still where you left her...
[19:05] <Usagi-chan> Noting that Cynthia seemed about as unhappy as she did about the whole thing, Usagi prepares a bowl of soapy water and a clean towel, taking them back to Cynthia's room before she returns. "Here, you can wash your hands if you want to," Usagi offers.
[19:05] * C-Rat is now known as C-Rat-Away
[19:07] <Ebiris> Taking the bowl, Cynthia sets it down on the floor, washing her hands before drying them on the towel. That done, she eyes the bowl of soapy water, and then Rei's warding symbols, with a certain degree of speculative interest.
[19:09] * Usagi-chan notes the direction of Cynthia's attention, picking up the bowl and towel and carrying them just outside the room. "They can wait there until you need them again," she says.
[19:10] <Ebiris> Cynthia frowns as you take the bowl away from her, but makes no move to stop you, or any other sign of protest, only standing up once more without a word.
[19:11] * Usagi-chan returns to the room a few moments later, settling down crosslegged on the floor a few moments later. "Anything in particular you'd like to do today? Other than the obvious, I mean," she says with a wry smile, glancing at Rei's wards.
[19:13] <Ebiris> "I'm afraid the 'obvious' is about all I can think of, right now," Cynthia replies dryly, not sounding apologetic at all.
[19:14] <Usagi-chan> "I was kind of hoping we could talk about old times," Usagi says a bit wistfully. "There aren't too many people around these days that remember a lot of the Silver Millenium, and the few I DO know that remember it I don't get to see all that often."
[19:16] <Ebiris> "I'd think your senshi would be more than enough for you in that regard," Cynthia sniffs disdainfully. "That Earthling Prince of yours got reincarnated as well, didn't he?"
[19:18] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I haven't seen Endymion in six months, and most of the other senshi barely remember anything," Usagi replies, shaking her head a bit. "Rei remembers some, but she generally doesn't like talking about it much."
[19:20] <Ebiris> "She never was one for idle chatter," Cynthia notes. "So, you think if we have a nice heart-warming conversation about all the happy times we once shared, then I'll just forget all the rest and leap into your arms like all is forgiven?" she asks, sneering.
[19:23] <Usagi-chan> "No, I'm not quite that naive," Usagi says with a slight smile. "Like you said, neither of us is the innocent little girl we used to be - in all kinds of ways." Settling her back against the table, she thinks for a moment. "There was one thing that I wondered for a long time - I asked once back then, but I don't remember whether you ever gave me an answer or not. What was it that kept drawing you back to summoning?"
[19:26] <Ebiris> "Because I'm good at it," she answers simply, frowning. "We all have our talents, something we want to excel in. For me, it's contacting realms beyond humanity's most primal fears... drawing forth their most powerful inhabitants, personifications of our worst nightmares..." her eyes look a little unfocused, as she gets into her spiel, "And dominating them," she finishes with a note of satisfied finality.
[19:29] <Usagi-chan> "It never made sense to me though," Usagi says with a slight frown. "You were good at a lot of other things, not just summoning - and every time you got caught doing it, you'd get in trouble. And I don't just mean lectures like what I'd get for running off to visit Endymion, I mean really serious trouble. It always worried me a lot."
[19:31] <Ebiris> "Of course," Cynthia draws herself up, haughtily, "Those pathetic fools were afraid. Afraid of what I could do..." her expression turns rather vicious, "And they were right."
[19:32] <Usagi-chan> "They were afraid of what would happen to you," Usagi says. "*I* was afraid of what would happen to you. The more you got into it, the further away from me it felt like you were getting - I hated that."
[19:33] <Ebiris> "I would have gladly included you..." Cynthia replies, looking down at you with a leering expression that nearly rivals Germatou's shadow-face for creep-value.
[19:37] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes, blocking out the rather unpleasant sight. "Included me in what? I've never seriously wanted to dominate people, Cynthia - I'd rather work WITH them. You can do so much more that way, and I've seen that idea prove itself over and over again."
[19:40] <Ebiris> "People and demons are very different things, Serenity," Cynthia cautions. "If you try to 'work with' a demon it will destroy you. The only way to deal with them is to control them utterly..." the redhead trails off, a look of confusion beginning to spread over her features as she parses what she just said and compares it with certain events...
[19:41] <Usagi-chan> "Cynthia...?" Usagi says, opening her eyes to see the puzzled look on the summoner's face.
[19:42] <Ebiris> "I..." Cynthia blinks several times, before her expression hardens. "It's nothing," she says, harshly brushing the matter aside.
[19:44] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "No, it's not nothing." She pauses, thinking over what Cynthia had just said for a moment before realization dawns. "If you can't work with demons at all... then what have you been doing? Working for them?"
[19:46] <Ebiris> "No!" Cynthia snaps. "I control them - they follow my commands utterly."
[19:47] <Usagi-chan> "Then what happened that day, Cynthia?" Usagi asks. "If they were following your commands, why did they go on a rampage like that? I can't imagine you wanting that to happen for ANY reason - I know you didn't get along with a lot of people, but I can't ever imagine you wanting to kill anyone."
[19:48] <Ebiris> "No," Cynthia shakes her head, but there is a certain hesitance in her movements. "I wanted that to happen. I chose it, myself!"
[19:52] <Usagi-chan> "Did you really?" Usagi says quietly. "Did you really want Marivel to die?" she says, naming one of Serenity's personal maids that had died in the attack - a cheerful girl with a smile for almost everyone in the palace.
[19:56] <Ebiris> Cynthia's legs wobble slightly. "Yes!" she snaps. "Her, and all the rest! They can burn in the abyss for eternity!"
[19:57] <Usagi-chan> "Why?" Usagi says gently. "Half the people that died were people you'd never even met, Cynthia - what could they have ever done to you to deserve that?"
[20:00] <Ebiris> "The..." Cynthia opens her mouth to reply before clamming it shut, paling as her whole body begins to shake.
[20:01] <Usagi-chan> "They've been using you, Cynthia - not the other way around," Usagi says gently, standing as she takes the redhead's shoulders.
[20:03] <Ebiris> "They told me to do it!" Cynthia wails, the floodgates opening as she finally realises the harsh reality she had blinded herself to for so long, only being held up by your hands on her shoulders as she slumps bonelessly.
[20:04] * Usagi-chan gathers the redhead into her arms, taking the girl's weight without complaint. "I know, Cynthia," she says quietly, hugging the other girl fiercely. "I always knew it wasn't you."
[20:06] <Ebiris> Cynthia's only reply is a series of heaving sobs as she clings onto you, one of her horns poking against your neck just below the ear with every movement. Luckily they're blunt, so it's just a distraction rather than a gouging,
[20:07] * Usagi-chan rubs Cynthia's back gently. "It'll be all right, Cynthia. I told you, I want to help you - and I still do."
[20:09] <Ebiris> "I didn't mean for it to happen the way it did..." Cynthia burbles in your embrace. "I thought I could control them..."
[20:11] <Usagi-chan> "I know you did, Cynthia," Usagi replies, closing her eyes as she holds the summoner. "I'm just glad you're back."
[20:14] <Ebiris> "I don't deserve you..." she sniffles. "Oh, Sere... how could you have kept faith in my after what I did? And those horrible things I said to you..."
[20:15] <Usagi-chan> "Because I knew you were still in there, Cynthia," Usagi says with a smile. "Because I knew that my friend would never say or do any of those things - it had to be something else."
[20:15] <Ebiris> "It WAS me!" she wails, "I'd twisted my head around so much with lies I didn't understand anything!"
[20:16] <Usagi-chan> "And now you do," Usagi says calmly. "Would you say or do any of that now?"
[20:17] <Ebiris> "No," she sniffs weakly.
[20:18] <Usagi-chan> "Then as far as I'm concerned it doesn't matter - it was what was controlling you, because I knew you weren't like that. Not the real Cynthia," Usagi says reassuringly.
[20:21] <Ebiris> "God..." the black-robed woman seperates from you, rubbing her eyes. "I've been that way for so long..." she snorts, "Thinking for myself seems almost novel."
[20:23] * Usagi-chan smiles at the one-time summoner. "It's good to have you back, Cynthia," Usagi says with a smile.
[20:24] <Ebiris> "I wish I could say it's good to be back, but..." she shudders, "Knowing what I've done without any self-deception is just..." she winces, "I really owe Rei an apology."
[20:25] <Usagi-chan> "I'm sure she'll understand," Usagi says. "She's been there herself."
[20:26] <Ebiris> "Which is why the things I said last night were so unforgivable," Cynthia replies unhappily.
[20:29] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit, recognizing the signs - this IS an awful lot like Rei. "That'll be up to her to decide," Usagi says gently. "But I don't have any doubts that she will." She glances around at the wards. "I'd remove the last of the taint right now if I could, but to be honest I'm not even sure HOW to take care of the wards," she says with an embarrassed grin. "About all I know is that I'm not supposed to touch them."
[20:30] <Ebiris> "Just deface any one of the symbols and the whole arrangement will collapse," Cynthia replies distractedly. "Whoever made this knew what they were doing - and it's not at all like any wardings I'm familiar with," she adds with a touch of curiousity.
[20:32] <Usagi-chan> "It's Shinto, that's about all I know - and I know Rei is a real expert about all that kind of stuff in this lifetime. Pretty different from the one we used to know," Usagi says with a grin, heading over to see how to erase one of the symbols - she's not exactly sure how Rei made them.
[20:33] <Ebiris> Looks like she did it with a black marker pen. "Rei?" Cynthia just shakes her head, "I won't even pretend to understand."
[20:34] <Usagi-chan> "Looks like I'm going to have to find a marker if I want to change one of the symbols," Usagi replies. "I'll be back in a minute - I think Rei keeps one in her room." So saying, she heads out of the room and into the miko's bedroom, looking for one.
[20:34] <Ebiris> There's one along with several other writing utensils on her desk.
[20:35] * Usagi-chan grabs it, heading back to Cynthia's room rather quickly. "All right, just change one of the symbols into something else, right? It's not going to do anything weird if I mess it up, is it?" Usagi asks a bit worriedly.
[20:37] <Ebiris> "I can't say for sure, but if you just scribble over one of them it should collapse the whole thing. It's a really stable warding arrangement, so I don't think it'll do anything besides just dissipate," Cynthia replies, not really sounding fully confident.
[20:39] * Usagi-chan grimaces, not really liking that answer. She checks her watch - if it's close to lunchtime, she might just go and try to get Rei to take the ward down herself.
[20:39] <Ebiris> It's just after ten o' clock.
[20:40] * Usagi-chan frowns. "Well... since I'm not really sure what I'm doing here, I'd rather not try to break this just yet. If you don't mind waiting a couple of hours or so until lunchtime, I can go get Rei out of school and get her to take the wards down - I'll stay and keep you company until then."
[20:41] <Ebiris> "I'll manage," Cynthia replies ambivalently.
[20:43] <Usagi-chan> "Sorry," Usagi says, giving the redhead an apologetic smile. "I'd just rather not take a risk since I'm not sure what it'll do." Setting the marker down on the table, she sits back down on the floor crosslegged. "Anything you'd like to talk about while we wait?" she asks.
[07:30] <Ebiris> "Why don't you tell me about your life on Earth since you've been reborn?" Cynthia asks, kneeling down and smoothing out her robes. "It must be a lot different from life back home."
[07:34] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit. "You have NO idea. First, I guess I should tell you my new name - in this lifetime I'm named Usagi, but I'll answer to either that or Serenity, so if you want to just stick with that it's fine. I was born a little over fifteen years ago..." With that, Usagi launches into a summary of her daily life, at least as it was prior to becoming Sailor Moon - telling about her parents and younger brother, and the people she knew at school.
[07:35] <Ebiris> Cynthia digests it all attentively, asking a few clarifying questions here and there, but mostly just letting you tell the story at your own pace.
[07:37] <Usagi-chan> "And that was life for me, up until a little more than a year ago. That's when Luna showed up and told me that I was Sailor Moon - and life started getting really crazy and hasn't completely let up since." Usagi smiles wryly at that.
[07:39] <Ebiris> "Picturing you as a Sailor Senshi is almost as strange as you being an ordinary Earthling girl," Cynthia notes, surprised.
[07:41] <Usagi-chan> "I guess I didn't give you much of a chance to get a look at me yesterday," Usagi admits. "I was the one who hit you while you were watching Oxyite and Uranus fight - from what I could tell, it didn't look like you saw it coming, either."
[07:

[Halbarad]

[07:56] * Usagi-chan tugs a bit at the skirt as she heads out of the shrine and for Rei's school. "Feel like I'm in my senshi fuku," she mutters as she heads off.
[07:57] <Ebiris> It's a decent walk of about fifteen minutes before you reach the walled Catholic girls school. Of note, the gates are closed.
[07:57] * Usagi-chan glances around the front of the school to see if anyone is in the area.
[07:59] <Ebiris> There's a few groups of schoolgirls clustered about that you can see past the gate, enjoying their lunches outside on this sunny day.
[08:00] * Usagi-chan shrugs, figuring that most of these girls will never see her again. Taking a small running start, she leaps over the gate. Once inside, she closes her eyes in concentration, trying to locate Rei inside the school grounds.
[08:01] <Ebiris> OOC: soul check
[08:01] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[08:01] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[08:03] <Ebiris> You attract a few startled and impressed looks as you land lightly inside the school. You can feel Rei over on the south facing side of the school. You think she's outside of the actual building from what you can see of it from your current position.
[08:04] * Usagi-chan breaks into a jog as she heads for Rei's location, ignoring the looks from the other girls.
[08:06] <Ebiris> Rounding the corner, you can see Rei's distinctive bone-white hair up ahead, the miko sitting against a tree and eating a sandwich by herself.
[08:07] * Usagi-chan smiles as she walks up to the miko. "How's lunch, Rei-chan?" she says with a smile.
[08:07] <Ebiris> "Usagi?" Rei stands up, surprised. "What are you doing here? What about Cynthia?"
[08:09] <Usagi-chan> "That's why I'm here," Usagi says. "I need you to come take down the wards - she's ready to be purified. I wasn't sure how to do it myself."
[08:10] <Ebiris> "Just wash them off or scribble them out," Rei replies, blinking. "So she's really calmed down?"
[08:11] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling a bit. "We've been talking all morning - told her about what my life was life before last March."
[08:12] <Ebiris> "Well, want me to come back with you, then?" Rei asks.
[08:13] <Usagi-chan> "Sure, if you want. I'd feel better about you taking the wards down anyway - I was just worried that it might do something funny if I tried to do it myself, and Cynthia didn't know enough about your kind of wards to say for sure."
[08:14] <Ebiris> Rei shakes her head. "Once they're up, any disruption to the arrangement just makes it collapse. It's only when you first activate it with a flaw that problems can arise."
[08:15] <Usagi-chan> "I'll remember that, although I don't know if I'll ever NEED to remember it after today," Usagi says with a slight grin. "Anyway, just find us a spot that's out of sight and I'll teleport us over."
[08:17] <Ebiris> There aren't many people on this side of the school anyway, but Rei leads you over behind some bushes next to the perimeter wall that takes you out of sight unless someone is practically on top of you.
[08:18] * Usagi-chan wastes no time in teleporting the pair back to the Shrine, letting her disguise vanish once they arrive. Once in the shrine, she makes a beeline for Cynthia's room.
[08:19] <Ebiris> Cynthia is still kneeling where you left her, standing up as you and Rei enter the room. "Hello, Rei," she says a bit timidly.
[08:20] * Usagi-chan gives Cynthia a smile. "We'll have you back to your old self in no time at all," she says confidently.
[08:21] <Ebiris> "Hey," Rei waves. "Don't worry, I know how you must be feeling, right now." Kneeling down, she licks her index finger before rubbing out part of one of her symbols. There is a barely perceptible change in the flow of energy in the room as the barrier around Cynthia vanishes.
[08:23] * Usagi-chan nods as she feels the magical energy shift. "Right, time for me to get to work. Moon Purity Power, Make UP!" With those words, Usagi transforms into the sailor-suited soldier of love and justice, Sailor Moon!
[08:23] * Usagi-chan is now known as Sailor_Moon
[08:24] <Ebiris> Rei blinks at the different transformation phrase, stepping away to make room, while Cynthia blushes and averts her eyes during the process.
[08:25] * Sailor_Moon produces her staff from subspace. "All right, Cynthia, here we go." Twirling the rod in a complex pattern, Usagi once more releases a purifying wave of energy at the summoner, willing it to drive away the demonic taint on her soul! "Moon Healing Escalation!"
[08:26] <Ebiris> OOC: soul check, rabbit
[08:26] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[08:26] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[08:26] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[08:26] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[08:30] <Ebiris> Cynthia stiffens with a gasp as the energy washes over her, her horns slowly shifting and seeming to be absorbed into her head, leaving her looking far more human. While her hair remains the same vibrant scarlet, she opens her eyes to reveal a set of grey/green orbs as the energy dissipates.
[08:31] * Sailor_Moon lowers the long staff with a sigh, giving Cynthia a slightly concerned look. "How do you feel?"
[08:32] <Ebiris> She blinks owlishly, taking a moment to reply. "Better..." she decides, eventually. "Human, again," she adds with a smile, rubbing a hand over where her horns used to be.
[08:33] * Sailor_Moon smiles. "You definitely look a lot better," she replies. "Like the Cynthia I remember."
[08:35] <Ebiris> Stepping forward, the black-robed woman gives you a quick hug. "I really can't thank you enough for giving me another chance, Sere," she whispers, voice thick with emotion.
[08:36] <Sailor_Moon> "You don't have to, Cynthia," Usagi says with a smile, letting her transformation dissipate. "As far as I'm concerned, just being able to see you and talk to you again is all the thanks I need."
[08:37] * Sailor_Moon is now known as Usagi-chan
[08:39] <Ebiris> "We've got a lot of lost time to make up for," she smiles, taking your hands in her own and letting them swing gently from side to side.
[08:39] <Ebiris> Rei frowns a bit, glancing between the two of you for a moment. "Usagi... have you told her?"
[08:41] * Usagi-chan sighs a bit, shaking her head. "Not yet," she replies, closing her eyes. "I was about to get to it when I saw it was time to go get you."
[08:42] <Ebiris> "I'll leave you to it," Rei decides, stepping backwards out the door. "Besides, if I hurry I can get back to school before classes resume."
[08:43] <Usagi-chan> "Thanks again, Rei," Usagi says, taking a deep breath as she tries to figure out how to phrase this.
[08:43] <Ebiris> Cynthia looks at you curiously as you two are left alone. "Serenity?"
[08:44] <Usagi-chan> "I don't exactly know how to put this," Usagi admits. "I'm... from another world - I don't actually belong here."
[08:45] <Ebiris> She blinks. "Excuse me?"
[08:46] <Usagi-chan> "I'm from a different dimension - the way it was explained to me, there are a lot of different worlds, some of which are really similar to each other - except for a few differences. I'm from a world like that."
[08:48] <Ebiris> Cynthia takes a moment before nodding. "I'm familiar with the concept, although it's never been proven..." she peers at you oddly. "What does this mean? If you're from another dimension..." she trails off, paling. "Where's the Serenity from this one?"
[08:48] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes. "She passed away almost a year ago, after the senshi fought Metallia."
[08:51] <Ebiris> Cynthia gasps, covering her mouth with her hands. "Oh, Sere..." she blinks away a few forming tears, "But... you're here, now?"
[08:51] * Usagi-chan nods, her eyes still closed. "I was pulled here from my own dimension somehow, and I've been doing what I can to help while I'm here. Until I can figure out what brought me here and find a way home."
[08:52] <Ebiris> "So you're going to leave?" she asks, furrowing her brow.
[08:53] <Usagi-chan> "I don't exactly know when, but yes," Usagi says, sighing a bit. "I almost wish I didn't have to, but I do."
[08:54] <Ebiris> The redhead looks to be deep in thought for a moment before she finally speaks up. "Take me with you," she asks, her voice soft, but determined.
[08:55] * Usagi-chan looks at Cynthia in surprise. "What?"
[08:56] <Ebiris> "You heard me," she looks at you dead on, taking one of your hands. "Whether in this dimension or another, Earth isn't my home. There's nothing for me, here."
[08:58] * Usagi-chan stares at Cynthia, her mouth dry as she considers. "....all right. If I can, I will." she finally agrees.
[09:00] <Ebiris> She smiles brightly, hugging you. "Thank you. If the only change is what happened with Metallia, then it doesn't matter. You're still my Serenity." She blows out a breath as she seperates, "I just hope my counterpart doesn't mind gaining a twin."
[09:01] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes, squeezing Cynthia tightly. "That... won't be a problem," she says hoarsely.
[09:02] <Ebiris> "What do you mean?" she asks, although with a sinking sensation in her stomach.
[09:03] <Usagi-chan> "She... didn't make it in my world," Usagi whispers. "It happened right in front of me, and there wasn't anything I could do." Tears begin to spill down her cheeks as she clings to Cynthia. "I'm so sorry..."
[09:07] <Ebiris> She sighs. "That's alright... I'm here, aren't I? You did save me."
[09:07] * Usagi-chan pulls back a bit, a teary smile on her face. "I never would have believed I'd get a second chance... but I'm so glad I did."
[09:08] <Ebiris> "I'm glad you did, too," Cynthia smiles.
[09:09] * Usagi-chan wipes her eyes on the back of her sleeve. "I owe an awful lot to you, Cynthia."
[09:10] <Ebiris> "Not as much as I owe you," she replies, amused.
[09:12] <Usagi-chan> "You might be surprised," Usagi says with a slight smile. "I have a kingdom again, thanks to you."
[09:12] <Ebiris> She blinks, rather thrown by that. "What?"
[09:14] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes, remembering. "Your last words to me were that you'd seen me as queen, and that you wanted me to be a good one. I've spent my time ever since then making sure I would be - and I don't think I'd have ever been able to make that decision if it wasn't for what you'd said to me."
[09:15] <Ebiris> "I do think you'd be a good Queen," she smiles a bit at that.
[09:15] <Usagi-chan> "I'm definitely trying," Usagi says with a smile. "Even if it is a ton of hard work right now."
[09:16] <Ebiris> "That's good..." Cynthia frowns, staring off into space. "Things that are easy have a habit of costing more than you'd think..."
[09:19] * Usagi-chan takes Cynthia's hand. "It's all behind you now, Cynthia. Let's concentrate on what we can make of the future, not worry about the past."
[09:21] <Ebiris> Time passes, until school finally lets out and Rei returns home, finding Usagi and Cynthia still chatting in the living room.
[09:23] * Usagi-chan gives Rei a smile as she comes in. "Hey, Rei-chan. Did you make it back to school all right?"
[09:24] <Ebiris> The miko nods. "No problems there. You want me to try another fire reading to find Oxyite?"
[09:25] <Usagi-chan> "If it's not too much trouble," Usagi nods.
[09:26] <Ebiris> "You're looking for Oxyite?" Cynthia pipes up worriedly, looking between you and Rei, "You're not going to fight him, are you?"
[09:26] <Usagi-chan> "We have to," Usagi says, giving Cynthia a serious look. "We can't let him run around with that sword of his - he's got to be stopped."
[09:27] <Ebiris> "He killed Sailor Neptune before he was stopped, last time," Cynthia points out, wincing.
[09:28] <Usagi-chan> "I know, but we've got a plan to deal with him," Usagi says. "We just have to challenge him to a fight somewhere where he can't do too much damage to innocent people."
[09:28] <Ebiris> Cynthia sighs. "Well, if you're looking for him, I know where he's likely to be."
[09:28] * Usagi-chan glances over at Rei. "That'll definitely help if you can tell us."
[09:30] <Ebiris> Rei also looks interested as Cynthia speaks up. "He and I were both staying in the penthouse apartment of Konomaiki Towers, down near the harbour."
[09:31] * Usagi-chan mutters a bit. "What is it with him and high rise apartments? Both times we faced him back home it was at a fancy apartment building."
[09:31] <Ebiris> "Even space pirates like to live in comfort?" Cynthia suggests, blushing.
[09:32] <Usagi-chan> "I guess," Usagi says with a shrug. "Guess all that's left is to deliver the message then. When do we want to face him down?"
[09:32] <Ebiris> "Tomorrow evening?" Rei suggests, shrugging as it makes little difference to her.
[09:34] <Usagi-chan> "Sounds fine to me... now the only tricky part - I have to do this blind. I can make an illusion where he is, but I can't see or react to anything that happens to it. If he's not there, it'll deliver the message anyway, and he'll never know we're waiting for him."
[09:35] <Ebiris> "Well, knowing where he is, I can check on that location through the Sacred Fire easily enough," Rei offers.
[09:36] <Usagi-chan> "That'll work - if he's there, I'll go ahead and send the illusion." Usagi nods.
[09:37] <Ebiris> The miko goes off to do just that, returning about ten minutes later, drenched in sweat. "He's there," she nods, panting a little. "Watching some kung fu movie. Now if you'll excuse me, I need a bath." So saying, she staggers off to the bathroom.
[09:40] <Usagi-chan> "Guess it's my turn then." Closing her eyes, she begins to chant, crafting an illusion of herself as Sailor Moon and sending it to the apartment building. Its words are simple. "Oxyite, I know you're here, and I know you can hear me. Let's settle this, once and for all. I'll be waiting for you tomorrow night at 6 pm, at the old abandoned airfield just outside the city. We'll put an end to this once and for all."
[09:40] <Ebiris> OOC: mind check
[09:41] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6 burning 40 EP for mind
[09:41] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 burning 40 EP for mind and gets 6."
[09:41] <Ebiris> You think the illusion appeared correctly where you wanted it to.
[09:42] * Usagi-chan nods, wiping her own brow as she opens her eyes once again. "All right, I've delivered the message. All that's left is to meet him tomorrow."
[09:43] <Ebiris> "Just... be careful, Serenity," Cynthia warns earnestly. "He's really strong."
[09:44] <Usagi-chan> "I know, Cynthia. This isn't the first time I've fought him, and I've beaten him once. I know we can do it again." Usagi gives the former summoner a smile, trying not to betray her own nervousness.
[09:45] <Ebiris> Hearing of your past victory does seem to reassure Cynthia, although she starts slightly as another redhead appears in the room. "Hello, Usagi," Ptilol waves, giving Cynthia a curious look.
[09:46] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Hey, Ptilol. Good to see you. Any progress back home?"
[09:47] <Ebiris> "Some," she smiles. "We have a theory of how you were moved between dimensions, now. We're already working on building the apparatus, but it's rather complicated - it won't be ready for testing until Friday at the earliest."
[09:49] * Usagi-chan nods. "Hopefully I should be able to start looking for who brought be here by then. We're planning to fight Oxyite tomorrow, and once he's taken care of we should have more breathing room to do other things. He's the single biggest danger right now."
[09:50] <Ebiris> Ptilol frowns. "Be careful, then. I know if Rei were here she'd say the same, if in stronger terms."
[09:51] <Usagi-chan> "I know he's dangerous, but she DOES worry a little too much," Usagi says with a slight smile. "I'm sure we'll do all right."
[09:53] <Ebiris> "Having never met Oxyite, I'll just have to take your word for it," Ptilol concedes. "Anyway, just in case you were wondering, neither Rei or Chibi Usa are with us today because Chibi Usa has a stomach bug. She should be fine in a day or two, though."
[09:54] * Usagi-chan grimaces at that. "Tell Rei to make sure she gets plenty of rest," she says worriedly.
[09:56] <Ebiris> "She's been in bed all day, as far as we know," Ptilol replies. "It's just a virus that's been going round the elementary classes at Mugen in the past few days."
[09:58] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Get Mom to make her some chicken soup, and tell Rei to read her a story - that usually helps her relax a lot," Usagi says, then deflates a bit. "Sorry, I know you guys already know to do all this, I'm just worried about her."
[09:59] <Ebiris> "Understandable," Ptilol says with a knowing smile. "Once again, be careful tomorrow, and we'll see you soon. Until then," she waves, before vanishing.
[09:59] * Usagi-chan gives the redhead a half-hearted smile and a wave, trying to stop herself from worrying about her daughter. "She'll be okay," she tries to reassure herself. "It's just a litttle stomach flu or something, I'm sure."
[10:00] <Ebiris> "That's what... Ptilol, said..." Cynthia nods, a little confused.
[10:02] <Usagi-chan> "Sorry, I guess I should explain," Usagi says a bit apologetically. "Ptilol is someone I know from my own world - she and her sister can astrally project themselves into other worlds like this one. She's been visiting once or twice a day for the past couple of days while I've been here to let me know how things are going at home."
[10:03] <Ebiris> Cynthia nods. "I got that. So... who's Chibi Usa? You mentioned Shingo was your little brother, but..."
[10:04] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "Chibi Usa is my daughter - adopted daughter in a way. She's actually from a different dimension from me, from its future. She stumbled into my world and needed help, but with the way things went in her home world, her future was lost and so she came to live with me."
[10:05] <Ebiris> "Ah," Cynthia nods. "I can relate."
[10:06] * Usagi-chan grins slightly. "I imagine you can," the blonde replies. "It's weird in a way though, because I'm actually her real mother in a way too - it was my future self from the other world that was her mother. Really complicated, but I just think of her as my daughter and leave it at that, usually."
[10:09] <Ebiris> "Probably best to just accept it at that and save myself a headache," Cynthia agrees.
[10:11] <Usagi-chan> "I just can't wait until I can get home to see her again," Usagi says a bit wistfully.
[10:12] <Ebiris> "Well, it won't be long from what Ptilol said," your companion offers. "I wish I could help you with that, but..." she trails off with a grimace, knowing full well that her powers are only good for reaching one dimension.
[10:14] <Usagi-chan> "It's all right, Cynthia. Actually, you might be able to help with what I'm supposed to be looking for. Ptilol told me that it had to be something or someone that brought me here, and finding them may be the quickest way of getting me home. But I've just been way too busy to start looking myself - even if I had an idea of where to start. It'd REALLY be a big help if you could help me with that, to be honest."
[10:15] <Ebiris> "I'll help however I can," she offers eagerly. "Any idea where to start?"
[10:17] <Usagi-chan> "I wish I had one," Usagi says with a sigh. "The only two people I know of that would have any real idea of where to look are Professor Tomoe and Sailor Pluto. I can introduce you to the Professor tomorrow if you want, but unless she comes to us, I don't have any way of contacting Pluto."
[10:19] <Ebiris> "I wouldn't know Sailor Pluto if I bumped into her on the street," Cynthia says apologetically. "Only the Queen and the other Senshi have ever even met her as far as I know."
[10:20] <Usagi-chan> "And you'd probably never bump into her on the street," Usagi says wryly. "She spends almost all her time at the Time Gate - that's why it's so hard to get in touch with her. I don't have any idea how to get there myself."
[10:22] <Ebiris> "That's not very convenient... of course, guarding the Time Gate is rather important..."
[10:23] * Usagi-chan nods. "I'm hoping my being here will be enough to get her attention, because I know I'm not supposed to be. I just have no idea when she might find the time to pay a visit."
[10:24] <Ebiris> "I suppose only she knows herself..." Cynthia shakes her head. "That's not really something we can rely on, anyway."
[10:25] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah," Usagi agrees. "But the Professor should have some ideas - he's an expert on different dimensions." She grins a bit. "And he knows how you feel, too - I only purified him two days ago, at least in this world."
[10:27] <Ebiris> "He's a demon summoner as well?"
[10:28] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Not the same way you were, but he was possessed too - trying to summon a creature called Pharaoh 90 that would have pretty much destroyed the world if it had managed to make it here."
[10:28] <Ebiris> Cynthia just shakes her head, sighing. "There seems to be a lot of that going around..."
[10:29] <Usagi-chan> "I'm doing my best to make sure it STOPS going around, though," Usagi says with a smile. "Anyway, how about a snack? I'm getting kind of hungry."
[10:30] <Ebiris> with it being nearly dinnertime, you, Cynthia, and Rei enjoy a pleasant meal as the rest of the day passes...
[10:30] <Ebiris> --------
[10:36] <Ebiris> The next day, after school, everyone comes together. Six Sailor Senshi and one former Demon Summoner, all congregating at the abandoned airfield. Once a key part of Japan's air defence in the last great war, it's now just a long strip of cracked tarmac and two empty hangars, the tower having been demolished as a safety hazard years ago.
[10:37] * Usagi-chan takes a few minutes to walk around, inspecting the area to make sure there's nothing that's going to surprise them while they're in the middle of fighting Oxyite.
[10:41] <Ebiris> It's a flat strip of land, with a chain link fence closing the entire area off. The two hangars at the far end are locked shut with warning signs threatening tresspassers, and the foundations of the control tower are still in evidence, although the rubble is long cleared away.
[10:42] * Usagi-chan returns to the others a few moments later, nodding. "All right, looks like this will be as good a place as any to do this. Is everyone ready?"
[10:44] <Ebiris> The senshi all nod grimly, Haruka clenching her fists tightly as her knuckles turn white. Cynthia hangs back, perhaps wondering what prompted her to tag along for the impending mayhem.
[10:45] <Usagi-chan> "Then let's get ready." Producing her brooch from subspace, Usagi holds it aloft, shouting out the words of her transformation. "Moon Purity Power, Make UP!"
[10:45] * Usagi-chan is now known as Sailor_Moon
[10:47] <Ebiris> The other senshi follow your lead, transforming and preparing for battle in a stunning multicoloured light show.
[10:48] * Sailor_Moon nods. "Now we wait - but stay on your guard. I don't expect Oxyite to play fair, so keep your eyes open for an ambush. Cynthia, you might want to go ahead and find cover now - I don't want you getting hurt when he shows up."
[10:50] <Ebiris> Cynthia nods readily, heading off towards the hangars.
[11:02] <Ebiris> The remaining senshi all spread out, close enough to support each other if needed, but far enough to not all get caught in a single attack, their eyes warily scanning the area around the airfield as they wait...
[11:23] * Sailor_Moon keeps position with the others, keeping all of her senses alert - both physical and spiritual - as she waits for the blue-skinned pirate's approach.
[11:26] <Ebiris> It's around half past five when you sense him, spotting him a moment later as he leaps over the chain-link fence. With his sword leaning jauntily over his shoulder, the blue-skinned pirate grins as he walks towards the group at a leisurely pace.
[11:27] * Sailor_Moon tenses a bit as Oxyite approaches, readying herself for what she knows is going to be one hell of a fight.
[11:29] <Ebiris> Haruka growls low in her throat, but remembers the plan, sticking close to Jupiter and Moon as he approaches, the remaining three senshi shifting positions as they spread out to enclose their foe.
[11:30] <Sailor_Moon> "It ends today, Oxyite," Usagi says evenly.
[11:30] <Ebiris> "Nice day to die, isn't it?" Oxyite grins, baring his teeth at you as he slowly swings his sword into a ready position.
[11:31] * Sailor_Moon produces her staff from subspace. "Let me know what it's like," Usagi replies, narrowing her eyes.
[11:31] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[11:31] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[11:31] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 17."
[11:31] <Ebiris> roll 6#1d6
[11:31] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 6#1d6 and gets 4, 2, 4, 1, 1, 5."
[11:33] <Ebiris> In a flash, Oxyite is upon you, charging the leader of the Sailor Senshi!
[11:33] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:33] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[11:33] <Ebiris> dodge, +3
[11:33] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+1 eating penalty
[11:33] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+1 eating penalty and gets 7."
[11:34] <Ebiris> Nimbly twisting aside, Moon evades the attack as the swordsman races past her, his form a blur!
[11:34] <Ebiris> "Venus Loveme Chain!" is the cry heard as he breaks your lines, Minako's attack lashing out at the pirate!
[11:34] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:34] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:34] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:34] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:35] <Ebiris> But Oxyite moves too fast, dodging it easily.
[11:36] <Ebiris> As he circles round, he comes right into the path of Mars, the white-haired senshi yelling "Mars Snake Fire!" as she launches her own attack into the fray!
[11:36] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:36] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[11:36] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[11:36] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[11:36] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:36] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[11:39] <Ebiris> Flying forth from Rei's crossed forearms, the fiery serpent swells to enormous size, like the vengeance of heaven as it bears down on Oxyite! Far too large for him to avoid, Oxyite yells an incoherent battle cry as he swings his sword out to cut the snake in two! But the might of the cosmic blade is no match for whatever's got Rei so fired up, the flaming snake roasting him tremendously!
[11:40] <Ebiris> "Urgh!" Oxyite grunts, his clothes burnt and his blue skin now more black with scorches all over as he bursts through the inferno, looking far worse for the wear.
[11:41] <Ebiris> "Maybe you need to cool off?" Mercury smirks, calling forth her own attack. "Shine Aqua Illusion!"
[11:41] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:41] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[11:41] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:41] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[11:44] <Ebiris> Still quick on his feet in spite of it all, Oxyite dodges to the side as Mercury's attack flies past!
[11:46] <Sailor_Moon> Haruka gathers her energy in her fist, glaring at the one who killed her lover. Slamming it into the ground, she shouts. "Quaking..."
[11:48] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:48] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[11:48] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[11:48] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[11:48] <Sailor_Moon> Makoto gathers her energy, releasing the familar form of her Thunder Dragon to join Haruka's attack. "Thunder..."
[11:48] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:48] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[11:46] * Sailor_Moon wears a grim expression as she releases her most powerful attack to join the others. "Heartbreak!"
[11:46] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[11:46] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[11:47] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[11:47] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[11:51] <Ebiris> The massive conglomoration of energy bursts forth like a hurricane, slamming into Oxyite like armageddon as it sends his body high into the air, careening right across the airfield. Not that you can see that, after the explosion of energy nearly seared your retinas.
[11:52] * Sailor_Moon keeps her hand across her eyes, clenching them closed tightly. "Did we get him?" she calls out. "I can't see!"
[11:53] <Ebiris> "No way he could have survived that," Minako protests, her eyes squinted shut much like everyone else.
[11:53] * Sailor_Moon cracks her eyes open, trying to regain her vision as she searches for any sign of the pirate.
[11:55] <Ebiris> It's bright. REALLY bright. Everything around you crackles with magic, the residual energy of that apocalyptic attack permeating the airfield completely. And... squinting, you see Oxyite's body, far away. Lying there motionless, a focal point for the crackling and burning energy that fills this entire area.
[11:56] * Sailor_Moon keeps her eyes on it as she tries to be able to see normally again - good GOD, that was more powerful than she expected. "I can see him... he's not moving."
[11:58] <Ebiris> The other girls all make noises of assent, and... from behind you, you hear a slow clapping...
[11:58] * Sailor_Moon turns around, wondering who could be applauding right now - most of them can barely even see.
[12:00] <Ebiris> Your vision is returning fairly quickly, now. Sparkling streamers of magical energy still dancing all over the airfield, plain as day. And floating in the air about twenty metres away is Pytha. "My word, that WAS impressive!" the effeminate man says, ceasing his applause. "I had expected the pirate to give you far more trouble than that."
[12:01] <Ebiris> Minako growls at seeing him. "What do you want, Pytha?"
[12:01] <Ebiris> roll 2d6 for rejuve
[12:01] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 for rejuve and gets 7."
[12:01] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 for rejuve
[12:01] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 for rejuve and gets 8."
[12:02] <Ebiris> "Well, my dear Minako, I had WANTED to watch Oxyite tear you girls apart," he smiles nastily. "It would have made for quite a show, I thought, knowing of his reputation. Alas, I am disappointed..."
[12:03] <Ebiris> Taking his meaning, the other senshi all tense, trying to recover themselves after their energy expenditure against Oxyite.
[12:03] <Ebiris> roll 4#2d6
[12:03] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 4#2d6 and gets 10, 11, 9, 9."
[12:03] <Sailor_Moon> "Sorry to let you down, but we had other plans," Usagi replies, narrowing her eyes as she keeps her eyes locked on Pytha.
[12:05] <Ebiris> "Yes..." he frowns prettily. "I'd be tempted to revive him so he could give it another go, but after that miserable showing... not much point, is there?" His left hand begins to glow with a dark violet aura as he looks down at the assembled senshi. "Looks like I have to get my hands dirty if anything is to be done around here, after all."
[12:06] * Sailor_Moon tightens her grip on her staff. "You'll regret it if you try it, Pytha," Usagi says warningly.
[12:08] <Ebiris> "No, my dear Princess," he smiles thinly, "I think that I'm going to enjoy this a great deal." He takes his attention off you to give Minako a brief smirk, "We Venusians are nothing if not vengeful."
[12:08] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[12:09] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[12:09] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 17."
[12:09] <Ebiris> roll 6#1d6
[12:09] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 6#1d6 and gets 4, 6, 3, 6, 5, 4."
[12:10] <Ebiris> Still panting, Jupiter tries to collect herself for the battle to come.
[12:11] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:11] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[12:12] <Ebiris> "You can join Oxyite if that's what you want, then!" Haruka growls, plunging her fist into the ground with a cry of "World Shaking!" as she launches her attack,
[12:12] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:12] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:13] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:13] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[12:14] <Ebiris> Despite seeming dead on target, the intense field of crackling magic all over the airfield seems to impede it at the last second, making it veer off and miss Pytha cleanly!
[12:17] * Sailor_Moon notes the effect of the magical field, wondering whether she can compensate for it. Bearing in mind that the others are rather disorganized, she brings up her staff in one of her older attacks. "Moon Princess Hallation!"
[12:17] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[12:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[12:17] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:17] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[12:17] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:17] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[12:18] <Ebiris> Your attack flies true, unaffected by the strange and powerful magic all around, but Pytha darts to the side at the last second.
[12:19] <Ebiris> "Now, my pretty sailor girls, time to rejoin everyone else from back home in the great beyond," Pytha calls, thrusting his left hand out as a wide cone of dark energy flashes out!
[12:19] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:19] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[12:19] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:19] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[12:19] <Ebiris> OOC: DCV +1, all
[12:20] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 eating penalty
[12:20] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 eating penalty and gets 7."
[12:20] <Ebiris> roll 5#2d6
[12:20] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 5#2d6 and gets 4, 9, 8, 3, 7."
[12:21] <Ebiris> Scrambling this way and that, most of the senshi are able to dive out of the way. But pained cries from Jupiter and Mercury show that not all made it. Hanging on grimly, Makoto glares up at Pytha, while Ami looks far badly affected, gasping on her hands and knees.
[12:22] <Ebiris> "Damn you!" Mars cries, shooting off a "Mars Snake Fire!" up at Pytha!
[12:22] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:22] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:22] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:22] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[12:23] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:23] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:23] <Ebiris> The flaming viper's head flies up, being battered on all sides by colourful streamers of magical energy that impede its progress before it slams into Pytha, still burning him a goodly amount!
[12:24] <Ebiris> "Just die you stupid stalker freak!" Minako yells, aiming a finger at Pytha as several lances of golden energy erupt forth, seeking to ventilate the former Lunar prisoner!
[12:24] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:24] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:24] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:24] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[12:24] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:24] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[12:25] <Ebiris> With an alarmed yelp, Pytha just barely ducks under the fusillade. "Such anger, Minako! Reminds me of your mother," he notes.
[12:25] <Ebiris> Putting a hand over her chest as she stands up, Ami takes in great gasping breaths of air as she tries to recover from what Pytha's attack did to her.
[12:25] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:25] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[12:25] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[12:26] <Ebiris> roll 6#1d6
[12:26] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 6#1d6 and gets 3, 1, 2, 4, 4, 6."
[12:26] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[12:26] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 14."
[12:27] <Ebiris> Staggering a little after her last attack, Haruka tries to draw upon her reserves to continue the battle!
[12:27] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:27] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:28] <Ebiris> Meanwhile, Pytha turns his attention to Rei, launching a single focused attack of death energy at the senshi of fire!
[12:28] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:28] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[12:28] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:28] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[12:28] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:28] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[12:29] <Ebiris> With an agile leap, Mars dodges the attack... only for it to curve impossibly as the energetic field of magic interacts with it, leading it to strike the miko as she lands! Crying out in pain, Rei falls in a tangled heap.
[12:31] <Ebiris> "Mars!" Jupiter cries in alarm, seeing her friend go down to an attack that shouldn't have possibly hit her. "Alright, take this! Sparkling Wide Pressure!" she yells furiously, launching a football sized ball of highly charged electricity!
[12:31] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:31] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[12:31] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:31] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[12:31] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:31] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[12:32] <Ebiris> Pytha stumbles in midair, not quite moving out of the attack's path. Not that it'd matter if he did, since it too manages to curve like his did, tracking him unerringly!
[12:32] <Ebiris> With a cry of pain, Pytha is shocked to the core!
[12:34] <Ebiris> "Rei-chan!" Minako cries, rushing over to her love, who is already picking herself up.
[12:36] <Ebiris> "Come on, Minako, lets show him what we can do," Rei says grimly, flames dancing off her fingertips. Minako hesitates briefly, but nods, summoning forth golden energy in her hands as the pair cry out "Love Inferno!", beams of golden light twisting around streamers of intense flame as the combined powers of Mars and Venus strike out at Pytha!
[12:37] <Ebiris> roll 2#2d6
[12:37] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2#2d6 and gets 8, 7."
[12:37] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:37] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[12:37] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:37] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[12:39] <Ebiris> This time the magical streamers seem to get caught up in the attack's wake, spiralling around it and boosting its already impressive power as it slams into Pytha, prompting an agonised cry as he plummets from the air, burnt terribly. Landing on his feet, and smoking, he coughs. "Not bad."
[12:39] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:39] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:39] <Ebiris> Beside Minako, Rei gives a quiet gasp as she faints from the energy loss of that attack.
[12:40] * Sailor_Moon scowls as she redirects her attack towards the earthbound Venusian. "I'm not letting you get away with this!"
[12:40] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[12:40] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:40] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:40] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[12:41] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:41] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[12:42] <Ebiris> Your hallation continues pouring forth, the pink energy and crescent moons being battered slightly as the dancing magical streamers filling the airfield put up a stiff resistance before it slams into Pytha, knocking him back several steps!
[12:43] <Ebiris> Stepping up last, Mercury calls out "Shine Aqua Illusion!" as she throws her icy attack at the effeminate embodiment of life and death!
[12:43] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:43] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[12:43] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:43] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[12:43] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:43] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[12:43] <Ebiris> Caught flat-footed, Pytha is iced up good by Ami's attack!
[12:45] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[12:45] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[12:45] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 17."
[12:45] <Ebiris> roll 5#1d6
[12:45] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 5#1d6 and gets 3, 3, 5, 3, 1."
[12:46] <Ebiris> Charging forward, Haruka aims a vicious punch into Pytha's midsection!
[12:46] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:46] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[12:46] <Ebiris> And misses. Somehow.
[12:48] * Prince_Herb is now known as Princess_Herb
[12:48] <Ebiris> Crying out "Sparkling Wide Pressure!" once more, Jupiter flings another ball of electricity at Pytha, while Venus stands protectively over the critically wounded and unconscious Rei-chan!
[12:49] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:49] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[12:49] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:49] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[12:49] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:49] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[12:50] <Ebiris> With an agile leap, Pytha rises gracefully over the attack... which somehow performs an immelman and smacks him in the back! "Hah!" Jupiter crows as Pytha is introduced to the ground rather brutally, "I could get used to this!"
[12:50] * Sailor_Moon grits her teeth, feeling the hefty drain of energy as she tries to keep up her assault. "Just... stay... down!" she grinds out.
[12:50] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[12:50] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[12:51] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:51] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[12:51] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:51] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[12:52] <Ebiris> Picking himself up, Pytha is promptly blasted several feet as the Hallation zooms in on him before he can react.
[12:53] <Ebiris> Now lookingly exceedingly beat up, Pytha just glares hatefully at you all as his left hand once more shoots out a cone of death energy at the assembled senshi!
[12:53] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:53] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[12:53] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:53] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[12:54] <Ebiris> DCV, +1 all
[12:54] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 eating penalty
[12:54] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 eating penalty and gets 8."
[12:54] <Ebiris> roll 2#2d6
[12:54] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2#2d6 and gets 4, 5."
[12:54] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:54] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[12:55] <Ebiris> Scattering this way and that, the senshi all dodge... except Minako, who cries out in pain as she shields Rei's body with her own!
[12:55] <Ebiris> Coming up from her diving roll after escaping the death field, Ami rises gracefully with a cry of "Shine Aqua Illusion!"
[12:55] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:55] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[12:56] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[12:56] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[12:56] <Ebiris> The attack sails cleanly over Pytha's head, however.
[12:56] <Ebiris> OOC: init
[12:56] <Ebiris> roll 5#1d6
[12:56] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 5#1d6 and gets 5, 3, 1, 3, 6."
[12:56] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2 for rejuv
[12:56] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 for rejuv and gets 10."
[12:58] <Ebiris> "What does it take to keep you down?!" Haruka protests, leaping at Pytha with a flying kick!
[12:58] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[12:58] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[12:58] <Ebiris> And somehow missing, again... Must be that magic field disrupting her attack, Haruka told herself.
[13:00] <Ebiris> Pytha spares no words, now knowing that the writing is on the wall, but determined to sell his life dearly. Once again unleashing a wide spread of death energy at the sailor senshi!
[13:00] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[13:00] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[13:00] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[13:00] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[13:00] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6 eating penalty
[13:00] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 eating penalty and gets 7."
[13:00] <Ebiris> roll 3#2d6
[13:00] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 3#2d6 and gets 6, 2, 9."
[13:01] <Ebiris> While Haruka sidesteps neatly, and Makoto and Usagi both dive for cover, Minako and Ami both scream out in pain as more of their life force is stripped away by Pytha's deadly attack!
[13:03] <Ebiris> With yet another cry of "Sparkling Wide Pressure!" Makoto aims to finish Pytha off, once and for all!
[13:03] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[13:03] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[13:03] <Ebiris> roll 1d6
[13:03] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[13:03] <Ebiris> roll 2d6
[13:03] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[13:05] <Ebiris> The attack rockets towards Pytha, drawing in yet more energy from the weird magical effect filling the area before it slams into Pytha! Crying out in agony, he convulses several times before collapsing, quite dead,
[13:05] * Sailor_Moon breathes out a long sigh, running over to check on Minako and Rei before anything else.
[13:06] <Ebiris> Rei is pale and breathing shallowly, her eyes closed. Minako looks to be about as bad off, her skin carrying a sickly pallour as she picks herself up from protecting Rei. At least she's awake, though.
[13:07] * Sailor_Moon checks the two to make sure they're at least stable. "Are you all right, Mina-chan?" Usagi says breathlessly.
[13:08] <Ebiris> "See, Rei-chan..." she murmurs breathlessly, not seeming to hear you. "I can protect you, too..."
[13:08] * Sailor_Moon sighs, shaking her head as she heads over to check on Ami - it's clear that Minako isn't in a condition to say much at the moment.
[13:10] <Ebiris> Ami is currently pushing herself up, rather woozily. She, too, has the same deathly paleness about her that Minako and Rei shared, even with a complete lack of external injuries.
[13:10] <Sailor_Moon> "Are you all right, Ami-chan?" Usagi asks worriedly, crouching down next to the blue-haired genius.
[13:12] <Ebiris> She nods, gasping. "Just... need to catch my breath..."
[13:12] <Ebiris> "Serenity!" Cynthia calls, running over and waving.
[13:13] * Sailor_Moon nods, taking a deep sigh. "Just take it easy, Ami-chan," she advises, gratified to see that the blue-haired girl is safe. "Is everyone else okay?" she calls out as she stands up.
[13:15] <Ebiris> Haruka is now glaring over at Oxyite's corpse in the distance, while Makoto is helping Minako up. Cynthia pulls up alongside you, breathing heavily. "Gods, Serenity... that was incredible! Oxyite never stood a chance, and then you took out Pytha right after!"
[13:16] <Sailor_Moon> "Pytha I didn't expect," Usagi says shortly, offering her assistance to Ami. "And whatever that attack we did to Oxyite did, it really made things crazy while we were fighting Pytha. I've never seen anything like it before."
[13:18] <Ebiris> "Yes..." Cynthia nods, holding up a hand as blue and yellow lightning bolts dance off it. "I think you might have permanently disrupted the magical aura in this area..."
[13:20] <Sailor_Moon> "I'll come back later and see if I can't do anything about it," Usagi says, taking Ami's arm across her shoulders as she helps the other girl to her feet. "Right now I think the most important thing is for us to get back to Juuban and recover - that was a really tough battle."
[13:23] <Ebiris> Cynthia shakes her head, amazed. "It was like something out of a legend," she says, admiration clear as the other senshi come over to join you, Rei slung over Makoto's shoulders.
[13:24] * Sailor_Moon smiles a bit at the praise. "Don't know about that... I'm just glad it's over, personally." Glancing up at the others, "Let's get the wounded back to the Shrine - we can let them all rest there. Everyone did a great job today - even with Pytha showing up right afterwards, we managed to take them both down. Way to go!"
[13:25] <Ebiris> Makoto gives a cheer, while Minako hovers about her, looking at Rei worriedly. Ami just smiles, while Haruka nods grimly. "Michiru can rest in peace, now."
[13:26] * Sailor_Moon nods. "And we didn't lose anyone, either." Giving the group a smile, she turns back towards the city. "Come on, everyone - let's go get some rest. We've earned it."
[13:28] <Ebiris> Leaving the airfield - and the zone of wild magic - you're hit by a curious sensation, of colours seeming duller, smells less intense... everything less vibrant than it was. The others all seem to notice, too, glancing back at the airfield, still filled with multicoloured sparkles of magic.
[13:29] * Sailor_Moon glances back at the sparkling colors behind the group. "I wonder what made that happen," Usagi says, shaking her head a bit. "I really ought to come back later and get a better look at it."
[13:32] <Ebiris> "With all the power you guys were throwing around, it's not surprising," Cynthia says, shaking her head.
[13:33] <Sailor_Moon> "I guess so... that's more than I've ever seen us pull off at once, short of me using the Grail or the Crystal." Usagi shakes her head a bit.
[13:36] <Ebiris> Cynthia blinks, mouthing 'Grail?' but shakes her head, deciding this isn't the time to ask. "We totally ripped them both apart!" Makoto cheers. "And now we can take a LONG vacation."
[13:37] * Sailor_Moon nods to Cynthia, giving Makoto a grin. "You guys have definitely earned it," she says with a smile.
[13:38] <Ebiris> "Deathbusters and dangerous space criminals all dealt with in just a couple of days..." Makoto shakes her head. "I'd never have expected this, last week."
[13:39] <Sailor_Moon> "I would have spread it out a little more if I could," Usagi says with a wry grin. "I wanted to help you guys out, but I wasn't expecting things to happen QUITE this fast."
[13:41] <Ebiris> "Won't hear me complain," Makoto says amiably. "Now it's all over."
[13:41] <Ebiris> "Indeed it is," a smooth feminine voice agrees, a tall woman with long green hair in a sharp lavender dress falls in step with you, seemingly coming out of nowhere.
[13:42] <Sailor_Moon> "Setsuna?" Usagi looks over at Pluto in surprise. "I was wondering when you'd show up."
[13:43] <Ebiris> "I'd expected to show up a little bit earlier," she admits, "But you had things well in hand. I owe you a tremendous debt of thanks, Queen Serenity." The others all just look on curiously, this being their first look at the enigmatic Sailor Pluto except for Minako.
[13:44] <Sailor_Moon> "You do?" Usagi blinks. "I figured you'd be upset with me for messing with the timeline here - I haven't exactly been careful about what I was doing."
[13:46] <Ebiris> Setsuna smiles mysteriously. "Perhaps if we can take this discussion somewhere more private, I can explain?"
[13:46] <Sailor_Moon> "Um... sure, I guess," Usagi says, glancing around at the others. "Can someone help Ami for a few minutes?"
[13:47] <Ebiris> "I can walk by myself," Ami replies, taking the opportunity to do just that.
[13:48] <Sailor_Moon> "All right," Usagi says, looking over at Setsuna. "Whenever you're ready, I guess."
[13:49] <Ebiris> Setsuna nods, and without further fanfare, you find yourself on a balcony overlooking... the time-stream? There's a table and two chairs, with a pair of glasses containing a fizzy clear liquid on the table. "Take a seat," she offers, "And help yourself to refreshment."
[13:50] <Sailor_Moon> "Um... thanks," Usagi says, doing just that. Somewhat hesitantly, she takes a sip of the liquid, expecting some kind of lemon-lime drink.
[13:52] <Ebiris> It's cream soda. Good stuff, just like Motoki serves at the Crown. Setsuna also takes a seat, sipping briefly at her own drink.
[13:54] * Sailor_Moon sets her drink back down on the table, detransforming as she does so - her fuku isn't exactly the best thing for relaxing in. "What did you need to talk to me about? Other than everything I've been doing for the past few days, which I guess you already knew about." Usagi blushes a bit at that.
[13:54] *Sailor_Moon is now known as Usagi-chan
[13:54] <Ebiris> "Yes," Setsuna smiles warmly. "And I must say, you exceeded my best expectations in your endeavours. Again, I thank you from the bottom of my heart."
[13:55] <Usagi-chan> "Wait... you were expecting me to be here?" Usagi says, rather surprised. "Were you the one who brought me here?"
[13:57] <Ebiris> "Yes," Setsuna nods. "And for that I owe you an apology."
[13:57] <Usagi-chan> "I don't understand.... why would you do that?" Usagi blinks.
[13:59] <Ebiris> Setsuna sighs softly. "Because, your Majesty, as the Guardian of Time, I am sorely limited. I stood by and did nothing as the Princess died, saving the Earth from Metallia, only to doom it to the coming Silence."
[14:00] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "But we just stopped the Deathbusters - the Silence won't come now."
[14:01] <Ebiris> "Yes," she smiles. "You stopped the Deathbusters. Your actions here have given this world a future again. Earth will be safe for generations to come, all thanks to you."
[14:02] <Usagi-chan> "I didn't make that much of a difference," Usagi says, shaking her head a bit. "I know I speeded things up a lot, but I'm sure the others would have managed to take care of the Professor and the others in time."
[14:03] <Ebiris> "No," she shakes her head. "They would have been slain... by Oxyite, or Pytha, or by any one of the Deathbusters and their daimons. Before you arrived, this Earth was dying a slow death and it didn't even know it."
[14:04] <Usagi-chan> "It can't have been that bad!" Usagi says, shaking her head. "I saw that the others were having a hard time when I first got here, but it can't have been like that!"
[14:06] <Ebiris> "All roads led to destruction," Setsuna smiles thinly. "Even if I had interfered myself, the chances of success were negligible." She turns, looking out into the grey expanse of the timestream. "And what use is there being the Guardian of Time if the future is pure entropy?"
[14:07] <Usagi-chan> "I..." Usagi pauses, not really having an answer to that. "So... you brought me here to try to save the future?" she finally says. "Is that it?"
[14:10] <Ebiris> "I am... still limited," Setsuna says, swirling her nearly empty drink in its glass. "I could not go back in time to prevent the Princess' death. Even trying would kill me before I could accomplish anything." She stares at you dead on with her piercing garnet eyes, "But bringing in another Princess from the subjective present of another timeline breaks no rules that I must uphold."
[14:12] * Usagi-chan digests that for a minute. "I guess I can't really blame you for that... if I were in your shoes, I'd probably have done the same thing myself." She turns a slightly puzzled look to the older woman after a moment. "But why me? I know mine isn't the only world out there - there have to have been other 'Princesses' you could have brought here."
[14:14] <Ebiris> "There are," she nods, "But only a few who have accomplished as much as you have at this time. And of those few, even less were at a time in their life where they could come here without risking events in their own timeline. And of that bare handful, I could only pick one... so why not you?"
[14:15] <Usagi-chan> "I guess so," Usagi says, not really sure of what to say. She's aware that this Setsuna has used her in a way, but on the other hand - if she'd been asked, she would have readily agreed to help.
[14:19] <Ebiris> "In any case, Earth is now safe for hundreds of years. I can return you to your home whenever you wish, and likewise send Cynthia with you," Setsuna says, smiling faintly.
[14:20] <Usagi-chan> "You can?" Usagi says with a broad smile. "That would be great - but I'd at least like to say goodbye to all the senshi here. They've already lost one Usagi without getting to say goodbye - I don't want to do it to them twice."
[14:22] <Ebiris> Setsuna nods. "That was another reason for choosing you over anyone else - you've helped Minako and Rei a great deal."
[14:23] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "I've tried - I hope I've at least gotten them started. I can still tell there's a long way to go for both of them, but I'm hoping I've helped them get to a place where they can make it on their own."
[14:25] <Ebiris> "From what I see, things are most likely to work out for a happy end with those two, now," Setsuna smiles, standing up. "With no more need for Sailor Senshi, they'll be able to enjoy the peaceful lives that they deserve."
[14:26] <Usagi-chan> "I'm glad to hear that," Usagi says, rising as well. "I hope they're happy together for a long time - all of them."
[14:27] <Ebiris> "There might be some rough spots, but they've a good chance of working things out. If you're ready to rejoin everybody at the Shrine?"
[14:28] * Usagi-chan nods. "Whenever you're ready, I am," Usagi agrees.
[14:29] <Ebiris> Setsuna nods, and a second later you find yourselves inside the front door of the Shrine, sounds of subdued merriment coming from the living room.
[14:29] * Usagi-chan smiles broadly, hurrying over to join the others. "I'm back!" she calls out as she enters the room.
[14:32] <Ebiris> "Welcome back!" the gang calls, Rei, Ami, and Minako all looking a bit better now as everyone relaxes, chatting and enjoying various snacks.
[14:33] <Usagi-chan> "Glad to see you're all feeling better," Usagi says, giving Rei, Ami, and Minako a smile, which fades a bit as she starts in on what she has to say. "I've had a talk with Setsuna, and she's going to take me and Cynthia back to my own world."
[14:35] <Ebiris> "You're leaving?" everyone's merriment subsides a bit at that. "I suppose... we knew it was coming," Ami smiles a bit sadly. "It was wonderful while it lasted, Usagi-chan."
[14:36] <Usagi-chan> "I know, and I wish it wasn't quite so sudden," Usagi says with a sad smile. "It's been really good getting to spend time with all of you."
[14:37] <Ebiris> Makoto stands up, coming over to give you a big hug. "Take care of yourself," she whispers intently, holding you tight. "Just like our Usagi... you made a difference for all of us."
[14:39] * Usagi-chan does her best to return Makoto's crushing hug. "You too, Mako-chan," she says with a smile. "Just don't be in quite as big a hurry for kids as my Mako-chan is, okay?" she says, her eyes twinkling as she separates from the taller girl.
[14:45] <Ebiris> Makoto turns scarlet, seperating from you in a big hurry as the others stare at her with wide eyes. "Mako-chaann!" Minako nearly wails, scandalised.
[14:45] <Ebiris> "Hey, it's the OTHER Makoto! Not me!" the tall brunette protests, sadly in vain.
[14:46] <Ebiris> "You'd look so cute in a maternity dress," Ami says with an impish smile.
[14:46] <Ebiris> "Don't forget radiant!" Rei adds, grinning,
[14:47] * Usagi-chan covers a giggle. "I couldn't resist," she says with a grin. Turning to Ami, she heads over to give the blue-haired genius a hug as well. "Thanks for all your help while I was here, Ami-chan. I'm glad we got to talk together."
[14:48] <Ebiris> "Me too, Usagi-chan," Ami replies, returning the hug. "Thank you, for everything."
[14:50] <Usagi-chan> "You're more than welcome," Usagi says with a smile, moving on to Minako next. "I'm... not exactly sure what I should say, Mina-chan. It's... been good to spend more time with you," she says with a smile, taking the silver-haired girl into a hug as well. "Take good care of Rei-chan for me, all right?"
[14:51] <Ebiris> "I will," Minako promises, tearing up. "And you do the same with your Rei-chan, okay?"
[14:52] <Usagi-chan> "It's a promise," Usagi says with a smile. Moving on to the white haired miko, Usagi feels a smile creep across her face. "Guess it's time to say goodbye, Rei-chan," she says quietly, taking the other girl's hands in her own. "I hope I've been able to help."
[14:55] <Ebiris> "You really have," Rei says with a teary smile. "I... there aren't any words for how much you've helped me," she says, settling for drawing you into a tight hug of her own.
[14:57] <Usagi-chan> "I'm just glad to see you doing so much better," Usagi says, feeling tears sting her own eyes as she returns the other girl's embrace. "That's worth more to me than all the thanks in the world."
[14:58] <Ebiris> "I'm not going to waste Usagi's gift any more," Rei whispers earnestly.
[14:59] <Usagi-chan> "Make her proud of you, Rei-chan. I know wherever she is, she's still watching over you," Usagi whispers back, finally breaking away from the miko.
[15:01] <Ebiris> Cynthia also makes her farewells, although those being far more brief and perfunct, this world's senshi all rising to see you off.
[15:03] * Usagi-chan smiles sadly as she waves to the group. "Good luck, everyone. I'll never forget any of you - I wish all of you the best from here on out." Ducking her head quickly to hide her tears, she takes Cynthia's hand, hurrying back to where she left Setsuna.
[15:04] <Ebiris> Setsuna is still by the door, giving you an understanding smile as you draw up by her. "Are you ready?"
[15:05] * Usagi-chan nods silently, sniffling a bit through her tears. "I'm ready," she says in a small voice.
[15:07] <Ebiris> "This world owes you a debt it can never repay, your Majesty. Thank you for giving everyone here a chance to make something of it," Setsuna says sincerely, already seeming to fade away... Before you find yourself in the entrance of Hikawa Shrine, much as it was a second ago, albeit with less shoes at the door.
[15:07] * Usagi-chan looks around quickly. "Is that really it? Are we home?" Usagi says, letting go of Cynthia's hand as she looks around "Rei-chaaan!" she calls out.
[15:09] * Princess_Herb[bbiab] is now known as Princess_Herb
[15:10] <Ebiris> There is a rumbling of feet as Rei suddenly rounds the corner at the end of the hallway. "Usagi?!" she says in disbelief, before your companion registers. "Cynthia?!"
[15:11] * Usagi-chan charges s