by Lerris » Mon Apr 21, 2014 11:33 pm
Here is chapter 16. I have edited it. That being said, feel free to point out anything I missed as I was focusing on content as much as anything. At around 15k words, this could have likely been broken up into multiple chapters, but unless there is demand to do so, I plan to leave it.
I would like to get a little feedback on this before I undertake the final chapter or chapters. (I'm guessing it might be doable in one very long chapter, but I won't know for sure till it is written. Certain things could take significant time.)
Either way, the stage is set for the finale... Now I just need to write it...
-Lerris
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Disclaimer: I do not own Ranma 1/2, Sailor Moon, Lost Universe, Stargate, or Ah My Goddess. This is a non-profit work of fanfiction meant only for entertainment.
Ice Squared
by Lerris Smith
-«Childhood’s End»-
As a reminder, the previous chapters have been revised, although the only significant changes were in the previous three chapters, so if you haven’t reread them recently, it is highly recommended that you do so.
-«oOo»-
Jack sat in Swordbreaker’s piloting station once more. After a surprisingly short debate they had decided to go with his plan, which mostly consisted of getting their people out, one way or another. Simply put, no one wanted to leave Kasumi there and Jack wanted to do more, if they could, to insure they were not a current threat to Earth. As he put it, it made little sense to suddenly stop and devote all their resources in one area if there was still a large chance of getting stabbed in the back while you did so.
The details of took some time to work out. The Prometheus was hidden on the Amalar hyperspace gateway. More specifically, they were almost to the end of the structure hidden between two of the structures gigantic ribs. The idea was to hide there until needed. The massive energy the gate gave out made regular sensors useless, while a simple paint job by Swordbreaker helped guard against a visual inspection. There were only sixteen crew members left on board, including its captain. The rest of the crew was packed into Swordbreaker like sardines. They had already picked up their guests from Amalar and locked them into a room set aside for them. Canal had programmed them an interactive course to learn English, which seemed the more useful of the two languages for what lay ahead, although she had later added a Japanese option as well.
Despite Pluto’s wish to volunteer, it was Ranma and Haruka who had gone in their place down to find Kasumi and make sure she was safe. With the planet Pluto as it was, and Saturn still weakened, Haruka was probably the strongest remaining Senshi other than Sailor Moon herself. Ranma, on the other hand, while not magically particularly strong, was without a doubt their strongest fighter. Ranma also went in female form, which they hoped would make them underestimate them further. Nabiki also thought that the bond between Canal, Ranma, and herself might allow the remaining Senshi to more easily funnel energy to the group, for what they were really hoping would be a quick teleport back to Swordbreaker, once it was in range.
Swordbreaker was currently in process of trying to get back into range of Amalar after hopefully losing any ships that might have been tracking them leave their space. Sadly, they were limited to inertial flight with the full wavelength camouflage, since it was impossible to mask engine emissions sufficiently otherwise. This meant that it would be another two days before they would be in range for a teleport. It meant two days when the three of them were on their own, but there was nothing that could be done about it. If things went well they would pass close enough to the planet for Ranma and Haruka to teleport up with Kasumi, with the Senshi on the ship providing additional energy. They figured the teleport would be detected, but Swordbreaker should be able to outrun them.
-«oOo»-
Kasumi was absently trying to sleep on the far too luxurious bed that had been given to her in the far too luxurious set of rooms when a knock was heard. She stood, buttoned her housecoat, and said enter in their language. It was one of the few words she knew. She was surprised when Alex came in and said in halting Japanese, “There has been a delay. Something is wrong with your friends shuttle. They are fine, but may be a few days.”
He said it in such a way that she knew he had practiced it. Internally she panicked, even as externally she pasted her happy smile on her face and said, “Oh, well, you will let me know as soon as they are here, won’t you? I miss them so.”
Alex said, “I will,” and then hesitantly walked out of the room, even as Kasumi looked at him with concern. She panicked more when she saw sorrow in his eyes, but kept her Kasumi smile in place until the door closed again and then finally let the tears begin to fall. This was not like when Akane would be kidnapped at all. If something happened to Ranma she knew that she herself stood no chance whatsoever.
-«oOo»-
Suddenly Canal shouted, “They have betrayed us! They are torturing them!”
Nabiki said, “I know. I can feel it. Bastards!”
“As can I,” came from both Usagi and Michiru.
Nabiki said, “We need to get their now!” Then clearly in desperation she said, “Plot a hyperspace course that drops us right on top of them!”
Canal’s eyes grew wider with shock. “No! No! You do not know what you ask. Appearing that far inside a gravity well would kill you! No one could stand the strain.”
Jack and Teal’c looked on with concern but said nothing.
Nabiki said, “It is the only way! If we phase out far enough away for a normal entrance their entire fleet will be upon us far too soon. Even if we activate the Prometheus, enough are bound to stay to make it impossible. We need to get in and get out before they can react! I don’t give a damn if I die, but I’m not leaving Kasumi and Ranma there.” She reached out to grab Canal and shook her while shouting, “I’m not!”
Usagi said hesitantly, “There is the possibility of...”
Setsuna cut her off with,“No there isn’t and you know it. Yes the eternal bond to the moon queen could be used to bring Nabiki back, but not after a few minutes. It takes years to stabilize fully, and even then you would need the other Senshi to stabilize yourself. At best you would trade your life for hers!”
Usagi said softly, “I am willing to do so, for any of you.”
Setsuna said, “Well too dang bad, because this time it will not be you that saves us.” Then with a calmer gentler tone she said, “Jack, contact the Prometheus. Tell them to do it now!”
Jack said, “Wait just a second. Yes I know torture is bad. I have been tortured, but I’m not sure its worth killing one of you two to avoid it.”
Canal said, “It is not that simple. They will want to learn how to construct more of me and while Haruka knows nothing, Ranma does know enough to help them a great deal. Such understanding is necessary to be my captain.”
Nabiki said, “She is right. I have been studying it and I know Ranma has as well. It is all the more reason we must go now. Please. I beg you all. Help me save my sister and Ranma. I’m okay with dying, but I can not fail them!”
Jack said, “Ah hell. There has to be some other way.”
Teal’c said, “I can not think of one Colonel O’Neil, though I doubt from what I know of Ranma that he would give up such secrets easily.”
Dr. Mizuno said, “But he would.” Many glares turned to her in anger. She hastily continued, “All they would have to do is threaten Kasumi. They might not even need to use the real Kasumi.” No one had any response to that. They knew it to be true.
Setsuna said softly, “Jack, please.”
Jack sighed. He pressed the transmit button and said, “Prometheus. We need to execute the plan now. Execute and return to Earth. If things go bad we may not be able to help you, and it is certain you will not be able to help us. So just get back and do what you can there.”
Major Davis said, “I understand sir. If I may, what is the current situation?”
“They have started torturing their prisoners.”
“I do not understand. That is bad of course, but...”
“Just trust me. We need to get them out now.”
“As you say sir. Prometheus out.”
Canal asked Setsuna softly, “How much warning will you need? The last ten seconds or so of phase drive, and in particular the phase out will be the worst. The EM pulse generated by our forced transition from deep in subspace to normal space inside an atmosphere will likely be devastating to their systems. The shockwaves, both electromagnetic and atmospheric, will likely cause deaths. I cannot predict how many, though I can phase in very close to where Ranma is. If the others are not nearby, I may not be able to find them in time.”
Setsuna said, “Give me a one minute warning.” Canal nodded.
Usagi and the other Senshi hugged Setsuna tightly before she gently disengaged herself and gave Jack a searing kiss that left him speechless. She then said to Jack, “I have never lied to you Jack, so I will end with two more truths. First, you were a self assigned mission at first. I knew you would be important in the not too distant future, yet I grew to love you, but I loved duty more. When the time came for us to separate so you could do what you needed to do, I didn’t hesitate. I was not forced or compelled. I choose duty over us.” She then held his face in her hands. “Jack, don’t make my mistake.”
“I don’t understand.”
“Yes you do. You have known for years. Samantha Carter loves you very much as you love her. Do me this one favor. Find a way to return that love.”
Tears were glistening down Jack’s face now as he struggled to say, “I, I, I will.”
Nabiki said softly, “Canal, give me ship wide.”
“You have it.”
Her voice was cold when she spoke. “Attention, crewmen of the Prometheus and guests. Our enemy has begun to torture my husband and my sister. This cannot be forgiven! We will be entering battle within minutes to free our friends. The battle will be dangerous. Those near the exterior of the ship must try to find places near the interior and brace themselves. People are to arm themselves and repel intruders, should the need arise. We know they can transport people. It is possible we will be boarded.”
Dr. Mizuno whispered in her ear, “I’m going to try to find their medical officer and standby in the med bay.” Nabiki nodded. Dr. Mizuno left the flight deck.
Nabiki said, “Dr. Mizuno is on her way down. She requests the medical staff of the Prometheus to come with her to prepare the medical center for incoming casualties. That is all.”
Nabiki’s mother soon met up with both a doctor and a nurse and led them to the med bay. Other than that, there was actually very little movement, save for a couple dozen finding new places to wait and things to hold onto.
-«oOo»-
Things were a bit different in the quarters set aside for their guests, who had just heard the captain’s translated message.
A blonde haired and red eyed beauty standing just over five foot eight said, “Dang it! There was no need for any of this and now more people are going to die, just because we can’t leave well enough alone!”
A taller young woman with red hair and green eyes snorted before said, “Did you expect anything different Kira? For the next in line for the throne you are still far too naive. It is always about money and power. This group has a shiny toy and they very much want it. We were just tossed in the trash to get it.”
A black haired woman that was slightly shorter than Kira said, “Anita, just because we know our government is corrupt, does not mean they completely lied. I think the story we have about how one of our ships destroyed a principle environmental node is likely true, though I’m unsure what they expect us to do about it. Three is hardly enough to rebuild one, particularly one that is actively under a great load, even with a willing populous.”
Princess Kira said, “True enough Cally, but nevertheless, I intend for us to do what we can to do so. What were those idiots thinking trying to destroy a life bearing world that had not attacked them?” She sighed. “I can’t really blame them for attacking, not with their friends under torture, though am curious how they knew that. I don’t doubt that they are though. I just hope that causalities are minimal.”
Anita tossed her red hair over her shoulder before saying, “The casualties we need are the councilors.”
Kira said, “That would change nothing. There are dozens more, just as corrupt, waiting to take their places.”
Cally asked, “How far do we help them?”
Kira said, “For now, we help them with the environmental matrix only. That was approved by both my brother and the council and we don’t have a lot of choice assuming we are going to end up on that world. We also watch and consider. Of course, if an opportunity exists to escape, it might be best to take it.”
Anita said, “We’d be heroes if we could bring this ship back with us.”
Kira frowned. She said, “No, that would be the worst idea. Giving them another powerful toy would just make matters worse.”
Cally said, “True. I can just see how some of the councilors would use it. I’m guessing a few of the gateways to systems they don’t control would be the first to go.”
Suddenly the view out the tiny window blurred to nothing but stars. Anita said, “That is not normal. This ship just made its own jump point to I’m guessing what must be a very deep layer of subspace. How is that possible?”
Cally said quietly, “I wonder if we can go back at all now. The princess might be spared, but they will certainly interrogate us for every drop we know. Then we will very likely be in the positions their friends are in now.”
Anita said, “This sucks.” No one disagreed, though Anita did pay unusual attention to the streaming stars.
-«oOo»-
Canal announced to everyone on the bridge and ship wide, “Attention! Strap yourself in! Our arrival will be extremely rough!” Everyone else on the bridge was strapped in their usual seats save for Serenity who was next to the captains chair continuing to do everything she could to lend her strength.
Canal said sadly to Setsuna, “It is almost time Setsuna-san.”
Setsuna enfolded the smaller green haired young women in her arms and said softly, “Thank you Canal Volfield.” Canal blinked, uncertain why she was being thanked. She was going to be indirectly the cause of her death very shortly. Setsuna smiled at her. “For giving me this chance. Sometimes a price must be paid. I thank you for your help in this.”
Canal whispered, “It is an honor.”
Setsuna let the mantle of Pluto settle over herself one final time and then reached deeper. Her clothes shifted again to the white and violet formal gown of the Queen of Pluto complete with tiara. She said to Serenity, “It is my wish that Ranma be offered the mantle of Pluto. I will leave my link to it with Mercury for safekeeping. Should he not accept, you may of course choose another.”
Serenity said, “It will be as you ask. He is a good choice.”
Setsuna nodded and then walked over to where Mercury was sitting and struggling vainly to stay conscious. She then reached to the side and lightly cupped Usagi’s face with her right hand. She said absently, “Good, there is still so much of the bunny left.” Usagi smiled, even as Setsuna gently pulled her hands away from Mercury. Then as if suddenly noticing how everyone else was strapped in, Usagi practically leaped for her own seat as she fumbled for the seat belt.
Setsuna smiled at Usagi fondly for a second before bending down and enfolding the nearly comatose younger woman.
Usagi said, “Goodbye my friend,” even as tears began to fall from her eyes that she made no attempt to smooth away. Minako, Michiru, Hotaru, and Usagi all had tears in their eyes as they remembered their friend, and all the times she had saved them all. Jack looked on with longing but said nothing. Teal’c quietly observed the scene.
Then, without sound or words, Setsuna Meio just dissolved into a ball of violet fire that began to settle into Mercury, instantly making her appear refreshed, rested, and more determined than ever, even as the violet fire continued to slide over her skin.
Canal said, “Forced phase out in five, four, three, two, one. Phase out!”
The ship shook and groaned. For a moment it seemed almost as if the inside of the ship stretched into infinity. Then it ended and they were all slammed into their safety belts as warning sirens sounded and thuds were heard from other parts of the ship.
Canal stood at the back of the room and she said quietly, “And another dies by my hand.” She then quickly forced her focus back to what was going on before saying loudly, “The EMP pulse appears to have fried much of this city’s electronics and that of most nearby craft. The phase drive took extensive damage from the forced phase in. I do not have an estimated repair time yet, but days is likely. All weapons systems are on-line and psi system safeties are off. Internal sensors report no deaths, though there are several people with likely broken bones. Our captain and swordbreaker are ready for battle.”
Usagi asked, even as she pulled out the Silver Crystal, “Where are they?”
Canal said, “Some large craft just turned towards us, but are rapidly falling to the ground, likely do to the EMP we released. We are near where Ranma and yes I can also get a lock on Haruka, but I still can’t get a lock on Kasumi.”
Mercury said, “I’m plotting an intercept course for Ranma and Haruka.”
Jack said, “I’m on it!”
Mercury added, “Teal’c has command of the conventional weapon systems. Remember, we don’t know where Kasumi is. I have control of the unconventional systems, but we dare not use any until we find her.”
“I understand.”
-«oOo»-
Major Davis said, “You heard the man. We have the order to go. Captain Keefer are you and your people ready in the F-302s?”
“Keefer on-line. Sir all eight F-302’s are ready to go. We have also completed destroying all classified material on the Prometheus that can be destroyed without impairing its final mission. I’m heading to the hanger now. ETA is two minutes till were ready to fly. I am a little concerned about the transit time in hyperspace. Three weeks in hyperspace is a long time in a fighter’s cockpit, if they fail to pick us up at our first rendezvous point. Given the change, that seems more likely now. Theoretically we can hold out, but it is close and the engines have not been tested for such durations yet.”
The Major said, “Can’t be helped and there is no reason to believe they will fail. Jack’s on that team.”
“Understood.”
The major turned to his pilot who said, “Sir I have automated everything I can and can begin the sequence from one of the 302s. After the command is given the Prometheus will fly to the center of the hyperspace gateway in a reverse orientation, and then go in on thrusters. The gateway will activate, and the Prometheus will allow itself to be pulled into their version of hyperspace, but then will activate its engines as needed to stay inside the part of the gate structure that exists in hyperspace. This should keep the gate open and pulling matter inwards. Once in position the Prometheus’s hyperdrive will be set to create the widest portal possible, effectively opening a hyperspace gate while already inside one. The resulting clash of energies should annihilate the gate, but as the Prometheus will be well inside the event horizon of the gate, most of the energies should be thrown into subspace, sparing the planet the majority of the explosion.”
“Do you think the repairs will hold long enough on our hyperdrive?”
He shrugged. “They should. We blew out all of the major safety and control systems before and have bypassed them all. Fortunately, we need neither safety or control to just blindly open a big window and cause a massive explosion. The hard part is usually not doing that.”
“Good, now we had better get going.” They both got up and began their journey down to the hanger.
“Do you think that group will really help us replace Prometheus? It seems a shame to lose her so soon.”
“Yes I do. I saw the specs on what these Sailor Senshi offered. It is amazing that it is technology from our own past, but with it we should be able to manufacture a great number of custom goods more quickly and efficiently, which will of course include starship components. Sadly, I’m not sure what the president will say when I return without the Prometheus. I think it is a worthwhile trade, particularly given that Swordbreaker is not our ship to command and it will add another layer of protection for Earth. I’m sure the brass would have rather we returned with both ships and also destroyed the gate, which it seems Swordbreaker could have done, and then accepted the civilian casualty.”
“As you say, Swordbreaker is not our ship to command. Also, if they destroyed it from outside hyperspace, then it would have destroyed or at least severely damaged Amalar? Sure maybe they did it to us, but we are going to fix that. Also that has got to be people high up, not the average people on the street. They surely don’t all deserve death. Then again, if Swordbreaker destroyed it from the inside where the blast is funneled inward, well wouldn’t that have destroyed their ship as well?”
The major said, “My guess is that they could survive it somehow and that we are merely a diversion to save their friend, hence the offer of the technology. Don’t quote me on that though. I don’t need the headache. As it is, I expect to be questioned by at least Senator Kinsey on why I just didn’t order my men to seize their ship when they boarded and claim it for the United States of America. If things don’t go well there I’d guess that my career is toast.”
“Well, as you said before sir. Colonel Jack O’Neil is on that team. He seldom disappoints and he is in overall charge.”
“True, but it would be nice if just once I didn’t have to keep in mind rationalizations for doing the right thing.”
“I understand sir.”
They got in their cramped fighters and then set the Prometheus on its final voyage before entering their own more familiar kind of hyperspace and then exiting ten seconds later. There they stayed for several hours until they confirmed the destruction of the gate and then resumed course for their expected rendezvous with Swordbreaker. The plan was to stay there for at least twenty four hours and if no word was heard, then they would risk the full journey home with their limited on board hyperspace ability. The only other thing they had to do was to keep an eye out for any useful large meteors, preferably ones with heavier elements. The major was not entirely sure why that request was made, although it wasn’t as if they would have anything better to do with their time.
-«oOo»-
Canal said, “The Prometheus has succeeded in destroying the gate from inside hyperspace. Spillover from the explosion in normal space is minimal. Using the gate itself to funnel the explosion worked better than expected.”
Jack said, “And they said that hyperdrive was broken and useless. I’d hardly call that useless! Who knew that opening a hyperspace portal inside an active portal could be so much fun. It is a pity about the ship though. Is there any word on the remaining crew?”
Michiru said, “Negative, but we didn’t really expect any. They should have evacuated on the F-302s after programing the ships final actions.”
Jack nodded, even as a large sprawling palace zoomed into view.
The silver crystal began to glow. Serenity said, “I’m sensing Kasumi, though I can’t pull her out, not and get Ranma and Haruka as well at least. We will have to go down there and then teleport back.”
Teal’c said, “I would like to go.”
Mercury said, “It won’t work. They would have to teleport your mass twice and we are already are short on Senshi to do so easily.”
“I understand.”
Canal said, “I will go in the shuttle and be a distraction. In the event that it looks like the shuttle is to be taken I want it destroyed. I can build another later.”
“Understood,” Mercury and Teal’c said. Canal vanished.
Jack said, “Well there went my miracle backup pilot. Okay guys, let’s do this.”
Michiru, Serenity, Saturn, and Venus formed a circle and held hands. Multicolored lights surrounded them as they disappeared. As soon as they vanished Mercury said, “Raising the Psi Barrier.”
Teal’c said, “Targeting incoming shuttle craft and firing. Minimal damage at this range.”
Mercury winced as the ship shook, though the barrier easily reflected the attack. She said, “Find the fixed emplacements and take them out. The EMP must not have destroyed them all.”
Canal’s shuttle was away as she shot forth to the very top of the palace. About half of the two dozen or so small incoming craft veered away from swordbreaker towards her as she began trying to outmaneuver them.
Seconds later Mercury said, “Crap!” She tapped a few more keys and said, “Attention! One or more intruders managed to beam aboard while the barrier was down. Find them and do what you have to do, but stay in groups. I could also use a weaponry officer up here, if there is one to spare. We have more targets than crew, and the ships automated systems are partially off-line.”
Swordbreaker continued to dodge and cause chaos, while its shuttle continued to merely dodge, though it had already taken several glancing blows. The psi barrier had so far absorbed everything that had hit the swordbreaker, but then no big ships had gotten to them yet. That could not last. Teal’c continued to destroy targets of opportunity.
-«oOo»-
The four appeared in an empty room. Venus pulled the blaster Canal had originally given Setsuna out of her subspace pocket. Serenity said,“They are not far. Saturn you are in the rear with Neptune. I will go in front with Venus. If possible, Neptune is to take out threats to the rear. If that is not possible, then Saturn do what you have to do, but keep your usage of power as little as possible. I’d rather you not be here at all so soon after the Death Reborn Revolution, but we have little choice.”
They nodded as Serenity opened the door and started to run, and then as if an afterthought her clothing shifted back to her normal Sailor Moon attire, which was far easier to run in. They got a total of maybe a hundred feet before Neptune was forced to call out, “Deep Submerge!” to take out a pack of guards. Unfortunately they had just rounded a corner and about half of that water was coming back their way. It quickly drenched their bottom half of their clothing before receding.
While they were distracted a laser blast came through the window and hit Venus in the back, burning her badly but not disabling her. She responded almost instantly with a crescent beam that removed a chunk of his chest. They continued to run as alarms began to sound.
Venus asked, “Where are they?”
Moon said, “I think they are somewhere a few stories below about where that next door is.”
Venus put on a burst of speed reaching the location seconds before the others, but not before Sailor Moon used a direct no warning beam attack from the Silver Crystal to seemingly paralyze several other guards.
Sailor Venus yelled, “Crescent Beam!” even as she repeated her previous attack from before save at lower power and sustained. This time she used it to slice a rough circle through the floor before jumping in where the piece of floor was now missing. The others quickly followed only to notice about a hundred guards just lying in wait. Saturn screamed, “Silence Wall!” but even so beams clipped both Neptune in the leg and Moon in the arm. Both were streaming blood onto the ground.
Moon said, “Moon Healing Escalation,” as power from the crystal poured forth quickly and began closing their wounds. She glanced at Saturn and paled. She had to free Saturn up now. She said, “Venus. Do it again!”
The blond nodded as she again sliced through the floor. The Senshi quickly jumped through with Saturn dropping her shield as she jumped. This time they fell at least two stories to find a narrow room with both long walls lined with hundreds of half cylinders faced with glass. Each of them contained what appeared to be a person in stasis.
Neptune looked up as they arrived then launched a Deep Submerge through the whole in the ceiling in an attempt to deter pursuit.
Venus said, “I’ve got it.” She then spun as she launched a chain of hearts at the ceiling that seemed to literally sew the hole closed. She said, “Without me actively holding it, it may not last long, though I can replace it. Does anyone know how to get them out?”
“No,” said Moon.
Saturn took in a large breath before saying, “Look down here to the right on the side. it’s a little hard to see, but isn’t this a button?” She pointed to an indentation about a third the way from the bottom on the right side of the nearest container.
Moon found the button on the container nearest her and then glanced up to see it was a nondescript boy. She looked along the wall till she found an old man with silver hair clutching a hand bound book and pressed the button while crossing the fingers on her other hand. Seconds later he blinked and the door opened. His voice spoke of confusion, but they could not understand him. He looked around before quickly shoving the book in her hands and opening the containers as fast as he could. She absently slipped it into her subspace pocket.
The other Senshi quickly began helping open doors save for Venus who replaced her original chains guarding the hole in the ceiling and also added a set covering the door at the far end which now seemed to have an army outside, if the shouts were any indication. Soon there was a cacophony of voices all in a language they did not know and then at the end there was Ranma and Haruka. Usagi grinned when she whacked the button for one and then the other as the other Senshi gathered around.
-«oOo»-
Aboard Swordbreaker they could see that a very large ship had captured Swordbreaker’s shuttle in some kind of beam. Mercury said, “Get back here Canal. I’m going to destroy it!”
Canal appeared and said, “Deploying Boost Chips. Readying plasma blaster. Remember not to use the leap rail gun here.” Teal’c began to focus the charged particle lasers on Swordbreaker’s shuttle.
Mercury said, “Got it. No firing things that generate micro black holes around people you are trying to save and planets you’d rather not destroy.”
Jack said dryly, “I’m glad that you’ve got your priorities straight there.”
“As am I, Colonel O’Neil.”
-«oOo»-
The princesses, Anita, and Cally were looking out the window at the massive state of the art constellation class warship.
Anita said dryly, “If that thing fires on us, we are dead.”
Kira said, “Surely it wouldn’t bring its main weapons to bear. It would destroy half of the capital city!”
Anita said dryly, “That depends on whether or not the councilors got out yet. If they did, we are dead.”
Cally said, “Oh look, its about to bring their shuttle on board. Do you think they could reverse engineer the tech with just that shuttle? I mean they did have it before.”
Kira said, “I’ve no idea. Wait, what are those things flying up front. Their forming some kind of hexagon of energy.”
Suddenly the ship shook as a truly massive beam of power erupted from it’s main cannon and was further amplified by the energy web generated by the boost chips. It vaporized half the warship in an instant and sent the rest of it flaming down into the garden area outside of the palace.
Anita said, “No way! That’s impossible!”
-«oOo»-
Haruka and Ranma blinked several times as their containers opened even as a massive boom was heard. Ranma, still in female form, said, “Not again? Don’t these people get tired of.. huh? Sailor Moon. Guys?”
Haruka scanned her eyes until she saw Michiru and Saturn. She said, “Neptune! Saturn! You here and alright!”
Neptune quickly embraced her lover and gave her a brief searing kiss. “And your out of uniform.” Then over to Ranma, “You as well.”
They both reached into subspace and pulled out their transformation wands before quickly transforming. They needed any protection they could get.
-«oOo»-
On board Swordbreaker Canal said to Nabiki, “Ranma could use my help now.”
She glanced back and said, “Go. We will hold the fort here.”
The weapons officer from the Prometheus continued to focus on the terminal he was in front of, every now and then directing it to fire another shot at a target of opportunity. Jack asked, “Did anyone ever get whoever boarded?”
Nabiki said, “Yes, I’ve got a note here from the others. They have caught and killed one and captured another. They are searching for others.” Nabiki rolled her eyes and said, “It seems that as usual they left the girl alive. She was taken to the medical bay and sedated. They are searching for others.”
Jack shifted the ship sideways to avoid a building before saying, “Hey, even if the women were just as dangerous, if you gotta keep one or the other around and stare at them, it makes sense to pick the prettier one.” Teal raised an eyebrow and tilted his head marginally as if in agreement.
“Sure sure.” She glanced down at the psi energy readings and the still violet fire that from time to time flashed over her skin. When this was over they were going to owe Setsuna their lives. The question was, could they hold out until all the others were safe? She had no idea. With enough ships they could no doubt wear them down and a lot more were on the radar. The bulk of them seemed to be holding back after what happened to the other one, but how long could that last?
-«oOo»-
Ranma felt Canal’s essence flow through her directing the power she got from Pandora and helping to protect her.
Neptune said, “I’m just glad they didn’t manage to take your transformation sticks.”
Uranus said, “They never gave us the chance to even consider getting them out. It was just a lot of torture and a lot of questions about our ship.”
Pandora said quietly, “They threatened to bring Kasumi down shortly before they froze me last time. I didn’t say anything, but if you hadn’t come.”
Moon said, “Good. Let’s get going, so does anyone have any good ideas on how to get out? I had planned to teleport to Kasumi if we had to. With all of us, it should be doable, but I don’t want to leave all these people here. Those guards are going to break through soon and not be very happy.”
Pandora casually moved the heavy container she was in previously out of the way and considered the stone wall before them. She then placed her hands on the wall as if sensing something before tapping the wall lightly with the index finger on his right hand. The wall shattered into a pile of small rocks, several of which he knocked down to prevent injuries to others. Her first attempt removed several feet of rock.
Uranus said dryly, “That works, but how do you know which way to go?”
Pandora said, “I can find a path to the surface, but I don’t sense Kasumi yet.”
Moon said, “I can still sense her. That direction works for now. Can you keep it up and go up at a pace the others could climb?”
To answer her question Pandora started doing continuous breaking point attacks while the other Senshi were rapidly made busy trying to avoid flying rock while removing the largest pieces from their makeshift tunnel. At that moment Ranma was extremely glad to feel Canal’s comforting presence protecting her from the continuous explosions. When she got back to Earth she made herself promise to finally undergo the full breaking point training.
-«oOo»-
Swordbreaker took fire from multiple directions, requiring almost continuous high level use of the psi barrier. They had also destroyed two other ships with the plasma blaster, but they were starting to come like flies.
Jack said, “I hate to say it, but unless we make some space.”
Mercury said, “We can’t. That group has likely been fighting on top of the teleport. If we are too far away when they try to teleport back they will all die.”
Teal’c blasted the nearest warship with a concentrated blast from the particle lasers. It was damaged, but kept coming.
Jack said, “Well, what about speed? Can we maneuver any faster?”
Mercury said, “Not and maintain the barrier. Combined I would not last long.”
Jack said, “Teal’c get ready. I’m going to try to run rings around them. See what you can destroy.”
Mercury said, “Okay, I’ve been scanning the ships. I’ll upload a priority target list for Teal’c and...”
“Lieutenant Rick Daniels Captain.”
“Rick. It should automatically divide them between you.”
“Understood.”
Mercury pressed a button for ship-wide and said, “I’m about to drop the barrier in a few seconds. You will need to strap in or brace yourself. Inertial dampeners may not fully compensate.” She released the button.
She said, “Dropping the barrier and enhancing the engines in five, four, three, two, one. Now!”
Jack was already turning the ship straight up and accelerating before he dove right between a group of ships that recklessly continued to fire, hitting each other but narrowly missing Sworbreaker. The two gunners splashed gun ports and engines left and right.
Mercury glanced at the level Jack was sitting at with the piloting control and was amazed that he was very near the maximum level, and once again wondered how he could do that. Sure it wasn’t also pulling psi energy from him at the same time which is bound to help, but still he had not had that much practice. She then glanced at the psi energy usage and almost smiled. She said, “This is less effort than I expected. Line us up for the big golden ship off to our starboard side. I’m going to try to take it out with a regular plasma blast shot.”
Jack quickly maneuvered to do so, twisting the ship in every direction possible via the neural interface before heading right for what appeared to be a glass opening to the warships bridge. Nabiki fired. The ship took a major hit annihilating the bridge and causing it to lurch. Somehow it barely righted itself even as it limped off the field. Had the shot been a little lower it would have been destroyed.
-«oOo»-
It took almost five minutes for Pandora to clear the way to the surface and by the time they were done they were all tired from the pace of manually clearing and removing all that rock.
Pandora looked around and suddenly said, “I can sense her now. Let’s go!” They ran, even as the other prisoners quickly exited the makeshift tunnel, sometimes taking time to help the older people amongst them. Once they reached the surface the old man that Moon first freed directed them off to a particular direction and they followed.
Suddenly a pulse of laser fire shot down from the sky at them. Pandora said, “Ah hell! Run faster.” They ran like the wind, despite being tired as several more shots etched five foot wide craters into the ground before a beam from Swordbreaker destroyed the fighter craft that was targeting them.
Less than a minute later they got to a very tall building with a thin elegant spire. Pandora yanked on the door and ripped it off its hinges. They soon encountered a squad of guards that Uranus’s Earth Shaking made short work of before they ran up three more levels. Finally they entered the top floor of the building. Pandora kicked open the door and glanced around before jumping sideways to dodge a blaster bolt from Alex. Seconds later a roundhouse kick from Pandora swept the gun out of his hands. The young Emperor sighed and held his hands out in front of him.
From around the corner Kasumi came in and smiled a blindingly bright smile as she saw them all. Alex was looking at her when she did that and nodded. He recovered, rubbed his hand, then stood and said softly in his best Japanese, “Free to go.”
Uranus said dryly, “Yea, we got that bit.”
Kasumi looked torn. Finally she said, “He is not that bad, really. I don’t think he would have harmed me, although he did keep pressing for a child.” She blushed at that before she rapidly added, “Well he never pressed too hard, if you understand.”
Moon asked Alex, “Stay or go with us?” Alex seemed to be considering it as he casually rubbed his injured hand. Moon glanced at Kasumi who said, “I’m not sure you could ever trust him fully. He is loyal to this place, despite how little they let him do.”
Alex puzzled over her words for several seconds before nodding. He said, “My duty here.”
Moon said, “See that you do it then. Stop this insanity of just invading systems before we are forced to destroy you! I would very much hate to have to do so.”
Her voice seemed so certain and so resolute. Alex walked closer to her and stared at her for several seconds before nodding. He said carefully, “You are ruler?”
Moon said, “Yes.”
Alex gave her a very brief bow that Moon returned, making sure it was no deeper than his own. Finally Alex said, “For my people, I will try.” He then dismissed his current train of thought and turned back to Kasumi before pulling a small jewelry box out of his pocket. Inside the box was a simple platinum chain with a small, delicate seeming ornament on it. It was the symbol for their empire. It looked like someone had taken an infinity symbol and added a third leaf to make it almost look like a three bladed fan. The interesting thing is the symbol pulsed regularly with different colors and then returning a pale white. He held it out to Kasumi. Moon intercepted it long enough to touch it briefly before allowing him to continue.
Kasumi said softly, “Thank you,” as she accepted it and slipped it around her neck, while pocketing its box.
Alex said hopefully, “Please come back some day?”
Kasumi hesitated but didn’t respond. They heard noise on the steps. Venus quickly blocked the door with a web of magical chains even as the others gathered in the middle of the room with Kasumi at its center. Venus joined them as they all joined hands and with a call of, “Sailor Teleport!” they dissolved into colors and vanished. Alex took his original seat and was in the process of drinking from his glass when the magical chains faded and they walked in.
Alex said quietly, “You’re too late. You are far too late. They are gone.”
“Orders sir!”
“What of the councilors?” queried the emperor.
“Sir, it is not certain, but we think they may be dead. Certainly several have been accounted for.”
“How?” he asked.
“We don’t have reliable reports. The EMP wave they hit us with destroyed so many of our systems that all the cameras and communications systems were down. We just have one sketchy report we just got from a maid, but from that our best guess is that either the prisoners they freed or the same group got to them in the chaos ...”
“and eliminated the ones who imprisoned their friends. Very well. I understand. I suppose it is more likely to be more of the same rebel group given the time factor, but it doesn’t matter. Here are your orders. Let them go if you can, but defend yourselves and our empire. Beyond that save lives and restore order.”
“Sir? Them?” the guard asked surprised.
“All of them of course. The rebels purpose serves my purpose today and although our future empress has chosen to delay the wedding. I would not see her come to harm if it could be avoided. Also, we did technically break our word when we tortured their friends, though I have no idea how they found out about that. It makes me glad that the councilors are dead, given this is the mess they brought us to. Their sloppiness and arrogance has bought us a formidable enemy that I must deal with. It has also isolated us to this system for a time, though perhaps this will be the incentive our scientists finally need to finish our own faster than light technology.”
“Um, what if we find one alive?” asked the hesitant guard commander.
“Perhaps you misheard me. The councilors are dead. Understand? It is necessary that it be so.” The guard gave a grim nod and said, “I understand sir. We shall see to it.”
The emperor sighed as the guard left. He was emperor in truth now, for as long as he could hold on to it. He did not know how long that would be. He then glanced around, confirming he was left alone, and pulled out another box from his other pocket much like the one he gave Kasumi. In it was a nearly identical necklace and glowing symbol. He slipped it on and it glowed a little more before the light almost faded completely. He could now feel uncertainty, happiness, contentment, concern and even hope. The feelings he felt from it he knew to be Kasumi’s own. They were growing dimmer now as they raced away, but would never truly fade as long as they both lived, such was the power of the magic embedded in them. The pair of necklaces was one of the few royal treasures they had. No one had ever managed to copy it.
He was a bit surprised to see his old mentor slip through the door. He had far more gray hair than he remembered. He noted without surprise that he had armed himself with a blaster, though he did not have it pointed at him.
Alex said quietly, “We were friends once Kelsen. Will you kill me now like you did the others?”
“That depends. I saw you slip on the Heart of the Storm. I am curious as to why. I would not think one raised by our esteemed councilors would care for such frivolity.”
“What happened to my guards? I know even know they would not have left me alone.”
“Unconscious, but unharmed for the most part. I believe one may have a broken arm. There were only a few.”
Alex looked at his former friend for several moments, as if analyzing the truth in those words before saying, “I gave the other half of the Heart to the one I still hope to be our new Empress, but she decided to go home with her friends. I suppose I can’t blame her, yet I had hoped. Perhaps I still do.”
“You tortured her friends.”
Alex stared at his mentor for several long seconds. He then said, “You know that is not true. While I understand the need to gain the alien’s technology, I would not have done something to upset Kasumi so.”
The old man finally said, “Perhaps there is hope for you yet Alex, though it will not be easy.”
“It never is. Now, I want you to come up with a list of new councilors. You will be among them. We have very little time to shore things up before we are both killed. If we don’t quickly fill the vacuum it will be filled for us and nothing will have changed. Make sure to get reasonable people in the positions, else the same outcome will occur. I know some that support your group can be a little fanatic.”
The old man nodded, even as a small smile appeared on his face. He said quietly, “I became a leader almost by accident to them. They read part of my words and decided I was the one, and then ignored others of my words that encouraged caution and reason. Do you know they tossed me in a stasis cell with my original draft? I suppose they wanted to keep all the evidence together. I gave it to who I believed to be the leader of the group that freed us. She was so young, yet with such old eyes.”
“Describe her to me.”
“Short, perhaps five foot eight at best. Long flowing blond hair tied up into two strange balls on the sides of her head and running down to her mid back. Piercing blue eyes that seemed to look in to your very soul.”
“Interesting. She was my guess as well, though I didn’t see the book on her.”
“She hid it somehow I think. What I’d really like to know was why she had such old eyes. I have never seen the like in one so young, but then the others had glimpses of it as well, if not to her extent.”
“Thank you Kelsen. Please write me up a report on all you observed and have the others contribute what you can when time permits, but for now...”
Kelsen smiled, “Ah yes, the new Councilors. Shall we see how long our team can survive?”
“I’d rather not,” said the Emperor. “I intend to win and not see some long lost cousin suddenly made emperor after my tragic death.”
-«oOo»-
On board Swordbreaker, the seriously damaged ship was just clearing the system when their pursuit broke away. Everyone let out a sigh of relief. Kasumi smiled a small true smile as she absently fingered the symbol attached to her necklace.
Canal looked at the Lieutenant still manning his station meaningfully to which Jack eventually noticed. Jack said, “Rick, why don’t you make sure everyone is okay?”
“As you say Colonel.”
“And Rick, don’t discuss anything you heard up here. I’m classifying it all top secret. I will handle the report. Understood?”
“Sir. Yes Sir!”
“Dismissed.” Rick quickly left the flight deck.
Canal announced ship wide, “Attention. We are currently free of known pursuit, but have extensive damage and are simply proceeding away from Amalar at this time. People are urged to remain in the undamaged quarters as much as possible and to allow the service robots to do their jobs. The worst of the damage is to the hyperdrive, but it should be repaired, along with the other systems in approximately sixty four hours. We have more than sufficient supplies, so I ask that everyone just relax and enjoy the trip.”
Nabiki said, “I should help. Surely I can do something. We are going to miss our rendezvous.”
Canal said, “You already are. I require no other help and there is nothing I can do about that.”
Ranma asked, “What about the Nekoken?”
Canal said, “I can help you heal that right after the major repairs are done and you both are rested. The regeneration of the phase drive energy matrix takes almost half a day by itself. There will be plenty of time.”
Ranma nodded.
Nabiki asked in disbelief, “I can’t do anything to help?”
Usagi smiled and pointed over to the corner of the bridge where Haruka was kissing Michiru softly. She said, “Well, you could use them as an example if you wanted to. You are married after all.”
Ranma’s eyes grew wide as if just remembering it and then Nabiki’s grew a predatory grin as she grabbed hold of the suddenly leadened martial artist and pulled her out the door. Ranma’s eyes grew wider when Michiru suggested, “Canal, I don’t suppose you could turn the hot water off?” Canal appeared to be considering it, which caused Ranma’s body to blush in a way that nearly resembled her hair as she was pulled through the door.
Jack and the others just laughed until Jack broke it up with his question of, “So hey kids, what’s to eat around here?”
Usagi said, “I believe we are down to mostly fish and whatever food your people brought aboard.”
“Thank works I guess. Hey, do you guys by chance get television? I’m particularly fond of a show called the Simpsons.”
Canal said, “I copied a television show from Nabiki’s computer called Slayers. Will that do?”
“Never heard of it, but sure, why not?”
About fifteen minutes later Jack said, “I gotta show Carter this!”
Teal’c raised an eyebrow clearly uncertain how successful that would be. He was surprised again when Lina faced the dragon. He said deadpan, “Lina would seem to be a most formidable opponent.”
-«oOo»-
A short time later a more timid Usagi knocked softly on the captain’s door.
Nabiki called out softly, “Who is it?”
Usagi responded softly, “It’s me, Usagi.”
“Enter.”
Usagi could see that Nabiki had made herself comfortable using Ranma’s male form as a pillow and that Ranma was quite asleep. She said softly, “I can come back.”
“No that is fine. What did you need?” asked softly the striking brunette with blue highlights.
Usagi hesitated for several seconds. Finally she said softly, “Perhaps you should wake Ranma as well.”
Nabiki was confused, but quickly recovered as she gently shook Ranma awake. He looked up and around. “Usagi?” he queried as he sat up with his back resting against the headboard.
She walked closer to them and then leaned over the side of the bed to embrace the surprised pair for several seconds before moving back. Nabiki asked, “What brought this on?”
Usagi said sadly, “I find I owe you too an apology.”
“Huh?” asked Ranma as he ran his hand through his messy hair. A closer look showed he was still wearing his trademark pants. Nabiki just waited.
“The truth is the bond between myself and Mamoru, and now also between you too is not nearly as absolute as I implied, though it does as I said. It does make it more difficult to have a fulfilling relationship with another, but you deserve the complete truth. It is merely more difficult, and if you two can come to terms as solid friends and stay that much, even that difficultly would be mostly negated. You see it is when the bond is unstable that it causes problems. Stability doesn’t have to be through the love of a wife and a husband though. Simple friendship is enough, if it is true.”
Nabiki asked, “Why are you telling us this now? Isn’t it a bit late?” Then more suspiciously, “Your not trying to break us up are you?”
“No, never that. If anything I hope you two will always be together.”
“Then why?” asked the now curious middle Tendo daughter.
“I looked back at my recent actions and find I am not proud of all of them. I wanted, no I needed to keep both of you and if at all possible Canal and this ship with us. Your strength was needed. In your case I also truly believed that the pair of you would be a good couple. I’m telling you now because you need to know it. If you take whatever you two choose to have for granted then it may not last. I know Mamoru was not always the most faithful to me in the beginning, but things are different now. I don’t want you two to go through that. I also don’t want you to be mad at me, but I understand if you are.”
Ranma asked, “What about the other option? The one about fealty?”
Usagi smiled sadly. She said, “That form of invocation is old and has been used by the line of Serenity for a very long time, yet in truth the two are similar. Instead of a bond between you and Nabiki, it would be between us, though in truth the oath was just an oath. There is no magic involved there, although any form of betrayal between two that are bonded would weaken the bond.”
Ranma absently pulled Nabiki to him so that her back was held against his front. He said softly, “I don’t know what to think. I just figured I would have to marry a Tendo eventually. I hadn’t ever expected it to be Nabiki, though I did care for her. I cared for them all.”
Nabiki turned back to look at him. Moisture was gathered in the corners of her eyes.
Ranma said, “Relax Nabiki. When you were sick, I got to know you, the real you I mean. I admired your choice with Ami and soon grew to truly care for you. You have the intelligence I so admired, combined with cunning and beauty. I do not regret anything.”
Nabiki palmed the side of his face gently, “Nor do I. I’m just glad you could forgive me for my past.” Ranma smiled as Nabiki turned back to face Usagi. She then said, “This has partly to do with Setsuna giving me the mantle of Pluto for safekeeping doesn’t it?”
Usagi said, “I would like to think I would have had this conversation either way, but in truth that has been on my mind a great deal. With what we must repair back on Earth, we really need everyone in top form.” She then focused on Ranma. “Setsuna wanted you to be the next Sailor Pluto, and in truth I can think of no other as suited.”
“What? No, that can’t be right. Why, just on this ship there is Ami’s mom and Kasumi. Wouldn’t one of them be better?”
“I had considered both. Both meet the requirements, and yet do not. In order to make either work we would have to train and transfer thousands of people to Pluto. We do not have the time. Your own current link to Pandora has prepared you to a certain extent. Your link to Canal and Nabiki has prepared you more. When you add in your other extreme abilities, you are quite simply the only one we have that I believe could accept it safely, even with all the effort Pluto made in making this possible.”
“Really?”
“Really. You have also had exceptional power gained through training that Nabiki tells me you have never misused. This is a very vital position. I cannot risk it to someone who might abuse that power.”
“Kasumi would never.”
Usagi said, “I doubt that she would either, but I do not know that to be the case. When you give people massive amounts of power they tend to change, and often not in good ways. I can’t risk it and we don’t have time anyway. Now, should you accept, it is very likely that a bond will form between you and me as well. It is part of the nature of those magics. I’m not sure I can just cut that part out though I will not ask for an oath. You have more than proven yourself.”
Ranma said, “Wait a second. Isn’t the planet gone?”
Nabiki said, “Setsuna used her powers combined with the time gates own power and shifted the planet out of sync with the rest of the universe. Now that she is gone...”
Usagi finished with, “That protection will fail and should you take up her position, it will likely fail almost immediately. In fact that is another reason it must be you, since inducting anyone else would require those thousands of trained people on a Planet we cannot currently get to.”
Nabiki said, “Wait a second. Pluto is still a complete artificial world. If the worst happens we could evacuate some there.”
“Some yes, but only a fraction of a fraction, and then there is the problem with the time gates. I would not risk their security. Those near it would have to be those we trust, or we would have to permanently destroy the gates.”
Nabiki said, “Perhaps we could bring our families.”
Usagi said, “Dare we? We will have to ask for a very large sacrifice to save most. If we spare our families first, will people be willing to sacrifice?”
Nabiki said, “I understand I guess, but I’m not sure that is correct. If people know that we have evacuated those we care about they might take it more seriously.”
Usagi, “I had not considered that.”
Ranma asked, “Not to interrupt, but what about my curse? I wouldn’t become locked or anything?”
Usagi turned back to him, “You have to understand that magic is additive. One part of magic does not leave, just because you get a new part. The curse you had is a part of you. I suppose you might manage control over it someday, but I doubt it could ever be removed without harm, though I am willing to try if you wish.”
Ranma asked, “What kind of harm?”
“You would not die of course, though in a way I suppose a part of you would. Still, you could have the powers that Pluto had with enough training, but it would take years more work. If you wait and decide to remove it later, I may not be able to remove it at all. The protections from a full Senshi planetary mana link are formidable. Once those merge with the rest of your magics they are likely to be quite permanent as the forces required to seriously alter them will be near the forces required to kill you.”
Ranma sighed as he bitterly accepted his fate. He said quietly, “I guess there really is no choice then.” Moon nodded sympathetically even as Nabiki pulled his right hand into hers and clasped it firmly as she leaned more fully into him.
Nabiki asked, “What about the link to Pandora?”
Usagi said, “Canal already has a strong link to Pandora and she is a special case. With your permission I can simply move the link fully to her. It will be best if we go there to do it, but it should not take long. It would be better still if we could spend a few months to perfect it, but we don’t have the time and right now she doesn’t actually need the power.”
Nabiki said, “I thought you needed a cooperative population to establish a full Senshi link.”
“As I said, she is a special case. Normally the process of creating a planetary Senshi takes a relatively ordinary girl and links her to the magical power latent in a planetary body. The people on a planet, to a large extent, can influence the magic of a planet. They allow such forces to be safely harnessed. Without them, an ordinary girl would likely die during the initial creation. Canal and Ranma are anything but ordinary.’
Ranma asked, “How would the change affect her? I mean before she was the one controlling my link and protecting me.”
Usagi shrugged. “She will have full control to do as she chooses, yet still have her bond to the two of you. It doesn’t give her a true body though. That may limit her a great deal. I am truly unable to give her that save in the way I already outlined. Her bond with Swordbreaker prevents it.”
Nabiki suggested, “You understand the technology.”
Usagi said, “I support her wish for this technology to fade away, so whatever secrets you two know, tell no one, not even me. I might have made a different choice, but I respect hers as one who has had far longer to consider it. Understand?”
Nabiki and Ranma nodded.
Usagi said, “To answer your question, I understand only a little.” She then flipped open her broach and called the silver crystal to her hand. “This crystal is much to me what Swordbreaker is to her. It is not exactly the same of course. Her power is different than my own, yet there are many parallels.”
Ranma suggested, “So she would have a silver crystal of her own when she is reborn?”
Usagi said, “I do not think so. Most probably any excess power would be funneled back to Pandora. That plus the base level of power from Pandora should make her comparable to a planetary Senshi.” She let the crystal roll in her palm and then slipped it back into its place in her broach. “Sometimes I am tempted to do the same with this. It is a great danger leaving this so vulnerable, to me in particular, yet also a great help. With this I can do things that are otherwise impossible, much like Canal can. I am particularly impressed her ability to heal the mind. That is extraordinary”
Nabiki asked, “Is there anything else your not telling us?”
Usagi grinned and said, “One or two things.”
“Usagi!”
Usagi paused for a few seconds as if composing her thoughts. “The Earth is now in very bad shape. The planetary matrix is shattered. I can tell that much even from here. The message we got only confirms it. The rest of it may take a little time to fail fully, months perhaps, but it will fail, and if not replaced most will die. Even with our new trio of helpers, and a great deal of help I am not certain we can repair it, hence why I really need Sailor Pluto back. One Senshi’s help in such a work is equivalent to thousands of others. It is also highly likely I will have to use the crystal fully to have a chance.”
“Fully?” gasped Nabiki.
“Yes,” said Usagi. “Ultimately, I promised to protect this realm. I swore on my very soul and my hope for salvation and rebirth. If my life and soul are part of the price then I will pay it. If that happens...”
“No. I won’t do it and you won’t die!” Nabiki exclaimed.
“Will you not reconsider? If not you, then who?”
“Minako. She is the inner scouts leader.”
“You know as well as I that she is not suited for the greater position, although that may change in time. You are the closest I have. Ranma would actually not be a bad second choice, provided you were there to back him, but I do not know if they would accept Ranma fully so soon.”
“That is not fair! What about Makoto, Rei, or Michiru?” complained Nabiki as Ranma absently tried to gently rub her shoulders.
“No, it is not fair. Makoto has shown no great potential as a leader. Rei has more potential, but that is all it is potential. I noticed you didn’t mention Mamoru, but given his spotty reliability early on, I don’t think they could all trust him. Michiru was in on trying to kill Hotaru, who by the way would be my third choice, were she older,” said Usagi.
“Fine! I’ll do it, but you’d better not die on me. I don’t need this kind of responsibility!”
Usagi grinned. “Now you know how I felt. I will of course try my best.”
“Wait,” Ranma said. “I thought that you guys would always be reborn together eventually.”
Nabiki said softly, “If she uses the crystal fully there will be nothing left to be reborn.”
“What. No. There must be some other way.”
“The eternal bond may save her. It is just a deeper bond between us all and Serenity right? I know we have all been putting it off, but if that is what it takes...”
Usagi said sadly, “While such a thing would increase the odds of saving our home, Setsuna was right. There is not really time to form them fully, and even if you did the odds are good that the strengthened bond would pull you all with me into oblivion. I do not want that. There is also the risk to your own souls. It is not a trivial decision to make, and I will not ask it of you.”
Canal knocked on their door and was soon admitted. She carried with her a small gray pill and a glass of water. Ranma asked, “What’s up?”
Canal smiled and said, “I’m sorry for interrupting. If you want, when we fix the rest of the damage from the Nekoken I can also lesson the memories of your recent ordeal.” Ranma started to answer, but she rushed on, “Just think about it. For now, there is this if you want it. It will allow you a nights sleep without dreams.” Usagi accepted it for the couple and sat the pill and the water down on the counter.
Canal then glanced around and was about to leave when she heard Nabiki ask, “Can you stay for awhile? What we were discussing also affects you.”
Canal nodded and sat down in a holographic chair she created.
-«oOo»-
Almost an hour later, Canal appeared in front of the room Michiru and Haruka were staying in and knocked. Hearing no answer after several seconds she knocked louder. A few seconds later Haruka half yelled, “What is it?”
Canal projected her voice into the room so as not to wake anyone else. She said, “It’s me Canal. May I come in?”
Michiru said in an amused tone, “Please do.”
Canal entered the room and as she expected they were both cuddled into each others side. She brought with her a glass of water and a small gray pill. She said to Haruka, “I know they treated you badly down there Haruka. If you want, as soon as I have recovered fully and have the time I can help you weaken the hold those memories have on you. For now, if you wish it I have this. It will help you sleep without dreams. It is not perfect rest, but it has been helpful in the past.”
Haruka complained, “I was working on forgetting.” Michiru pinched her leg. Haruka winced and rubbed the spot before saying, “Thanks. I appreciate it. I’m not sure if I’ll take it but can you lay it on the nightstand?”
Canal did so then said, “The offer will remain open indefinitely, though I am glad that both you and Ranma have someone. Remember that I too am here should you need me.”
Michiru said, “Thanks.”
Haruka said, “I will remember.”
Canal nodded and quietly left.
Michiru asked, “Do you want to talk about it?”
“No.” Michiru looked hurt. Haruka said, “Please. When I’m with you I can forget. So can we go back to forgetting?”
Michiru smiled a predatory smile and said, “Let’s” even as she resumed kissing the statuesque blond.
-«oOo»-
As the others rested Canal too returned to her little room near the reactors. She didn’t truly require sleep. Parts of her were still actively repairing things. Nevertheless, she preferred her avatar to be active when it could, as it was now. It made her feel a touch more human. She opened an old book, the inside of which contained images from her past. She flipped to the end where she had added her current crew and smiled fondly only to flip backwards one by one as she considered each scene. She ended on page one with the photo of the first priestess who had died so that she may be born. The caption under the picture stated that her name was Sara Volfield.
Sighing she stretched out on the bed and replaced the book in its shelf. She then absently grabbed a very old teddy bear as she listened to the engines thrum as they moved through the sea of stars. She lost track of time then, but it seemed only a few minutes later when she felt a large surge of fresh clean positive psi energy enter her systems. With a grin she prioritized use of the surplus. Psi energy was not required to repair the ship, well other than the minimum amount necessary to keep herself active, but it could greatly speed things up. To her though this kind was special. She rather imagined it felt a bit like what being in a cool spring rain felt like for normal humans, so with the sound of raindrops on the roof she let the core of herself drift off to a peaceful sleep as her body healed.
-«oOo»-
Jack rested on the flight deck with the pilot’s chair tilted back and Teal’c in another chair similarly positioned as he tried to find sleep. In truth there was no where else to really go, well without sharing with one of the others, and they deserved what peace they could get. As he rested he considered the first love of her life. She always did what she wanted, and now she did it again. He smiled a small smile at that. When he got back he would tell Carter all about her. Perhaps it would be the opening he needed to tell her how he really felt. He knew the military rules would not allow them to date, yet perhaps something could be worked out. Then again, if the world truly was possibly ending, he was not sure if he gave a dang about the rules.
-«oOo»-
Setsuna Meio’s spirit felt intense pain as she invoked the forbidden life fire magic and used it to deliberately split herself from all that made her Sailor Pluto including leaving behind a few more details that the next Pluto might need. She then packaged the rest of the power invoked around that core and passed it to Nabiki and then it was finished. Her long duty was done.
She was quiet surprised to find herself in what appeared to be a small temple. Looking down she saw she was little more than a ghost. Looking across she could see a young woman that looked much like Kasumi, yet she also immediately recognized the goddess marks. She bowed quickly and said, “Megami-sama.”
“You need not bow to me, Meio Setsuna, last original member of that once great kingdom.”
“But I...”
“Yes, heaven has a very long file on you. I believe that Skuld even had to upgrade one of the servers once as it had grown so big.”
“Then I was right. I didn’t think heaven could forgive me. I did so much, sometimes not even with the best of intentions.”
“You are right. Many do not forgive you. They think it arrogant that you substitute your judgment for the guidance of heaven.”
Resigned Setsuna said, “Very well. I understood the price when I accepted it, but can you at least help my friends? You must know the situation.”
“Father has forbidden heaven to help here. He has declared it a task that man must pass or fail alone.”
“What?” screamed Setsuna. “All the arrogant, self serving egotistical bastards up there are going to do nothing! And they call me bad! At least I tried! Well, what are you waiting for? Send me to hell and be done with it!”
Belldandy was uncertain whether to smile or to frown. She did smile when she saw Keiichi walk in. She said, “Keiichi, I’d like to introduce you to the one woman who has done more for your world than all the gods and goddesses in heaven save Kami-sama himself.”
Setsuna was shocked. Her ghostly form seemed to pale more as the mortal calmly reached out his hand to shake her own ethereal hand. He said, “It is a pleasure to meet you Setsuna. Belldandy has told me much about you.”
Setsuna said, “Likewise.” Then to Belldandy she said, “I may have spoke a little hasty there. It’s just that you said you were doing nothing and...”
“I quite understand Setsuna-san. It was not a popular decision. For now I have chosen to take charge of your case, though you should know that both Kami-sama and myself agree that you have earned your rest, should you wish it.”
“Huh?”
“It is quite simple. You spent millennial doing a duty purely because you saw it as duty. No one forced you to get up every day and work towards a better world, but you did it anyway. Sure you messed up at times, but who doesn’t? Also, ever since you were pulled outside of Pluto’s sealing you have been thinking of ways to restore that asset so that it could help with the hard times to come, or at least to get back to your full power as it’s guardian so you could help that way. Your final conclusion was that the only solution available in the time alloted was for you to die and pass on the power. This would disrupt the magic holding Pluto outside of time and fix things, yet even in this you made sure that your life was spent well. Some have even considered promoting you to goddess, though that is quite impossible unless an existing goddess steps down.”
“You are kidding? You approve of my meddling?” asked Setsuna.
“Approve is too strong a word. Suffice it to say that many appreciated that there was someone acting when the rules they must live by forbid them from doing so, while at the same time disapproving of some of your tactics. I do wonder though why you didn’t form the energy you left behind into something that Ranma could use to absorb the bulk of your soul along with your powers. It would have increased the odds of them having the power they needed to win, while still giving Nabiki the energy she needed.”
“What? No! Had I done that Ranma would have been all but lost. My thousands of years of memories would sweep his personality away. With Ami it was the only way to truly save her, and since she was a reincarnation the contribution was nearly equal, but with Ranma it would have been the next thing to murder. Even if it would increase the odds a little. I would be no part of that.”
“Well said, and you are correct it would have been evil. Thank you, you have past my final test.”
“Okay, so what is to become of me?”
“Nothing.”
“Nothing,” blinked the spirit. Keiichi too mouthed the words.
Belldandy smiled once more. She said, “I could direct you to heaven where you will wait for reincarnation or the off chance that you do actually make goddess, but there you would not be able to see things very well, and I would give you at least that.”
“So I get to remain a ghost and watch my friends from afar.”
“Not exactly, or at least not only that.”
“Then what?”
“You will remain near me, or if we get near anyone who might sense your spirit you will either have to retreat or share my body with me and my angel. I suppose you could share with Keiichi too if he wanted to let you.”
“So, I am to be allowed to see first hand how it all turns out, but not allowed to interfere nor to even let those I have left behind know what happened.”
“Yes, that was the deal father and I agreed upon, although if you would rather?”
Setsuna bowed deeply. She said, “I thank you for your kindness and will see it to the end. I ask that you also look after them when it is their time.”
“They too will be judged when it is their time. Heaven cares a great deal about why people do things, and not just what they do, although that too is taken into account.”
Setsuna asked softly, hesitantly, “Can they do it? Even with the three new mage architects, the full assembly of Senshi, and the cooperation of the world?”
Belldandy said, “I have run such a simulation myself. Yes, there is a good chance that will be enough, if they have all three.”
Setsuna considered her words for several seconds before she half growled, “It is Kinsey and his ilk, isn’t it? They are going to use this as an opportunity to gain power. With their friends in control of the major media outlets and in positions of power around the world they will mess everything up!”
Belldandy said, “Yes, that was a likely outcome in the simulations I ran. The psychic and spiritual dissonance could easily doom the whole plan to failure.” Keiichi looked deeply troubled from where he was watching from his side of the room.
“No, I won’t let it end like this. There must be something we can do.”
Belldandy said, “I am truly sorry. Telling you puts me right up to the border of disobeying father, and you could not help in any case, as you must remain near me.”
Keiichi paled as he considered what he had heard and what he knew. He had been around the goddesses enough to learn to read between the lines. His love had let slip that in front of him intentionally, because he was not bound in any way. He would have to act, but he was not entirely sure how. He would also have to hope that Belldandy was not punished too badly for his actions. He tried to remember something that was useful from their earlier discussions of the people involved. Then he remembered. He knew where that General they met could be found. He bent down and kissed Belldandy gently on the lips and then hugged her tightly before getting up and saying, “I have to go now.”
Belldandy smiled and nodded. She said, “Be well my love. I would go with you if I could.”
“I know.” Keiichi called a taxi to pick him up and then quickly packed a small carry on bag as he waited for his ride to the airport.
After he was gone Belldandy continued to wait. She was half expecting lighting to emblazon her crimes outside the shrine, yet nothing happened. Finally she turned back to Setsuna and said, “If you will come with me, there are places I would show you. There is much beauty yet in this world. Will you accompany me to see it?”
“Your not going after him?” the ghost queried.
“No. I do not know why I was not immediately called to account. Perhaps Kami-sama considers that I truly am inside the line of what is permitted, but if I actively assisted I have little doubt that would change and the warning would not reach who it must. I have already pushed things quite far there. Kami-sama said it was the duty of mortals to solve this problem, so perhaps Keiichi is permitted his small part.”
Setsuna grinned. “Why not? Perhaps I can show you a few bright spots as well.”
“I would like that,” said the goddess as she absently formed a portal to the top of the tallest tree in the Brazilian rain forest. There she let her personal power come forth as her angel took flight with Setsuna not far away. The trio were soon singing with all their hearts, each doing what they could to heal the broken Earth. It seemed to be working too, until a few minutes later Belldandy fell to the Earth flat onto her face. Her angel and Setsuna quickly moved down to check on her. Her wings had vanished. Setsuna tried to turn her over and make her more comfortable, but as a ghost she had no physical form. She was forced to step aside and watch her angel struggle to do it before vanishing back into her goddess.
Setsuna saw her eyelashes flickering. “What has happened?”
“It is nothing.”
“It has to be something. Your a goddess. Goddesses do not just collapse.”
Belldandy smiled a sad smile. “I will be fine with rest. Will you stay with me and perhaps sing to me? You must know some wonderful old songs.”
“You’re evading.”
“Not really. I already told you the answer.”
Setsuna paced back and forth as she considered. Several seconds later she said, “You are like I was without Pluto, save your totally cut off not partially.”
“That is true. I can still recover energy when I sleep, but any large use drains it very quickly.”
“Why? What’s the point? Why leave you down on Earth by yourself. He has to know that pretty much anyone who cares would do something.”
She said quietly, “It is my lost sister I think. Father said she would return. I think...” She choked up barely able to continue until she finally whispered. “My sister Iris has been lost for a very long time. I think she may have been lost somewhere around the time your kingdom fell, though my memories of that time are sparse at best and the records are sealed to Father’s eyes only. Father says she will return soon. I think she is much of why the existing matrix lasted so long. I could not read her file, but her status says she is active. If so, that means that heaven has been lending power to the matrix for thousands of years. It may also be partially why none of you sensed its presence till now, but that is all over now.” Tears were now slowly streaming from the goddess’s eyes.
“What? What are you saying?”
“I believe Father is invoking a form of Ragnarok or at least allowing the final events to happen. He has given a great deal of care to this world and it seems through my sister’s help and a small group of humans who sacrificed themselves has given thousands of additional years, but now he likely believes it is time for the world to stand on its own. The tools of salvation have been provided. A legend from the stars to aid us, legends from the past to guide us, a goddess to form the heart, a princess from the stars to help show the way, and billions of souls to shine light unto the darkness.”
“Wait. I think I followed that. You think he wants you to sacrifice too? You said you were cutoff from heaven. You’d be even less help than I would have, if I was still alive and linked to Pluto.”
“It is only a guess and it is not power that would be most needed. I would not mind so much if I did not have to leave Keiichi.” Her tears continued then as she tried to make herself comfortable on the forest floor.
Ethereal tears also formed in the former Senshi’s eyes as she sat by the tired goddess. She absently brushed brown hair out of the goddess’s eyes. She was surprised that she could do that much. Then she remembered a song. It was hardly old by her measure of things. It was also meant to be sung by a man, yet it fit now. The song was, “The Impossible Dream” from Man of La Mancha. She sang passionately verse after verse ending with, “And the world will be better for this. That one man, scorned and covered with scars. Still strove with his last ounce of courage. To reach the unreachable star”
The goddess was now sleeping peacefully but she didn’t stop. Instead she turned to the few songs she remembered from her childhood and continued to sing softly. Perhaps it was not much, but it was all she could do as she sat and watched over the goddess in the setting sun.
