Commander Galos SAILOR JOURNEYS: SECRETS OF AN UNKNOWN PAST Chapter 6: The Cryssalid mission. Part 1: Preparations and Departure. The next day, Yohann was preparing everything for the Sailors' arrival when Makoto entered the gymnasium. "Good morning, Yohann. Slept well?" "Yes, thank you Makoto. All we have to do now is wait for the rest to arrive. By the way, what are you doing up so early? The meeting is scheduled to start in another hour." "Oh, I always am ready early in the morning. Besides, I wanted to give a try at your kitchen. It's so well equipped, that I couldn't resist using it. I hope you don't mind. By the way, breakfast is ready." "No, it's okay. As a matter of fact, feel free to use it whenever you like. Excuse me, where's Robin? Is she up yet?" "Yes, she's waiting for us in the dinning room. Shall we go?" "Of course. Everything's ready here. And to tell you the truth, I can't wait to taste your delicious cooking." "Thank you! I hope you won't be disappointed!" 'Ooh, he likes my cooking!' added for herself. 'Whoever said that the road to a man's heart is his stomach, deserves a statue!' * * * * Later, Yohann, Makoto and Robin were enjoying Makoto's breakfast. She prepared jars of fresh fruit juices, lots of toasts, plates of chopped fruits, there were bowls of cereals ready to eat, and assorted meals for whoever wanted them. Earlier, she called the entire group using her communicator, telling them that there was going to be breakfast waiting for them all at the base. "Makoto," said Yohann while he was savoring a cup of coffee, "everything is delicious. If you continue feeding me like this, I wont' be able to enter my armor!" "Thank you, Yohann! That's the nicest thing anybody had ever told me!' answered Makoto, a shining smile all over her face. 'Round one goes to you, Makoto. But the next move belongs to me. Just wait and see!' thought Robin. At that moment, the doorbell rang. "I'll get it!" she said, and immediately ran towards the front door. Soon enough, the rest of the Sailors entered the dinning room... with a little extra with them. "Lieutenant Starr," said Usagi, "I want to introduce you to my parents. He is my father, Tsukino Kenji..." "Pleased to meet you, Lieutenant. Usagi has told us a lot of you." Said Kenji, shaking his hand with Yohann's. "And she is my mother, Tsukino Ikuko." Concluded Usagi. "Pleased to meet you, Lieutenant Starr. My daughter talked marvels of your house, but I never expected it to be so beautiful!" said Ikuko. "Thank you. It's a great honor to have you both in my humble house, Mr. and Mrs. Tsukino. Please feel yourselves at home. Also, there's enough food at the dinning room if you want to have breakfast. Go ahead, everyone. I'll be with you in a moment." And grabbing Usagi's arm, he directed her to the living room, while whispering, "can I have a word with you, in private, Usagi?" Once they were out of everybody's sight, Yohann began to talk. "Excuse me, Usagi, but what are they doing here? I mean, they are great people, but don't you think that this could jeopardize yours and your friends' secret identities? Not to mention mine and this mission!!" "You don't have to worry on that account, Yohann," said Luna, who decided to enter the living room in that instant. "Before your landing, the rest of the sailors decided to reveal everything to her parents, because she was under a lot of stress after her last adventure. It was the best thing we could ever do, since they've been very supportive, and kept her secret and ours. Besides, they already know about you and your mission, and want to help in whatever way they can." "Well, that's a relief, Luna. In that case, there's no problem. Let's go and join them. And Usagi?" "Yes, Yohann?" "Please, tell me about your plans before you put them in effect!" * * * * Some time later, everybody was in the medical ward. Kenji and Ikuko were still deeply impressed by the sheer size of the Leviathan and all the technological advances that made Earth Base Gaia possible. "All right, everyone. Listen up." Said Yohann. "The first thing in today's agenda is to actualize the medical files Alex has of all of you. The analysis will consist of two parts: the first one is giving you a complete analysis on your normal forms. The second one will be when you are on your Senshi and Scout forms. That way, there can be a complete medical file of each one of you and therefore an efficient data log to determine the best treatment each one would need in case one is needed." "Err... excuse me Yohann, but you are not going to use needles, right?" asked Chibi-Usa. "NO!! Of course not, Chibi-Usa! I'm not a barbarian! All you have to do is lie down on this table, and that will be all. All right, who's first?" "Me. I'm curious about this procedure," said Ami. "Do I have to undress?" "No, Ami. There's no need. Just lay down and relax. It won't take long." When Ami was ready, Yohann then proceeded to operate a control panel next to her. Immediately, a green beam of energy came down from the roof and enveloped Ami. 10 seconds later, the beam turned off. "Well, Ami, that's all. How do you feel?" asked Yohann. "Very well, thank you. How does this work?" "This beam creates a resonance field in your body. Sensors on the diagnostics table then pick up that field and the computer, learning everything that is needed interprets the results. We've been using this technique for decades." "That's amazing. And you can diagnose anything with this procedure?" "Of course. Why?" "Yohann, there's something I want to talk with you... later, if you don't mind." "Of course, Ami. All right, who's next?" 5 minutes later, the first round of examinations was over, and everybody proceeded to transform for the second examination phase. "MOON SOUL POWER, TRANSFORM!!" "MOON CRYSTAL POWER, MAKE UP!!" "MARS CRYSTAL POWER, MAKE UP!!" "JUPITER CRYSTAL POWER, MAKE UP!!" "MERCURY CRYSTAL POWER, MAKE UP!!" "JENDRA CRYSTAL POWER, MAKE UP!!" "NEPTUNE SOUL POWER, TRANSFORM!! "URANUS CRYSTAL POWER, MAKE UP!!" "SATURN SOUL POWER, TRANSFORM!!" "PLUTO CRYSTAL POWER, MAKE UP!!" And with an amazing display of Technum, the girls transformed into the Sailor Scouts and the Sailor Senshis. Mamoru and Shingo made their respective transformations in silence, becoming Prince Endymion and the Emerald Knight respectively. Usagi's parents were watching this in awe, hardly believing that their children were superheroes, even after they told them so! "Mom, Dad, you don't know how much I wanted to do this in front of you..." said Usagi, smiling at her parents. "Usagi, you make me feel so proud... although you shouldn't use this outfit! It's so...so... revealing!" said Kenji, noticing how tight was her senshi suit. "DAD!!!" "KENJI!!! You're embarrassing her!" said Ikuko, sending Kenji a look that could kill him. "oh.... He, he... well, I... oops..." was all Kenji could say. "Ahem... excuse me," said Yohann, "Can we proceed?" Another 5 minutes later, everything was finished, and the data was stored on both Alex and the medcom. "Ok, everyone. That's all. Now, let's go to the weapons test center. There's something there I want to show you. I'll be with you in a few minutes. Mars, I want to talk with you." Said Yohann. All the sailors went to the weapons test center, wondering what was going to show them Yohann. Rei was only thinking one thing. 'Oh, God. He knows. This exam revealed it. What's going to happen now? What am I going to do?' "Mars, Alex transmitted me some very interesting information about you. I take you know what I'm talking about." "Yes." Murmured Mars, after one minute of silence. "And of course, you realize that it's my duty to take you out of this mission because of your state." "I understand Yohann, but I'm afraid I'm not going to obey that order! You asked for our help, and like it or not, you are going to receive MY help! Besides, it's my duty to protect Usagi, and there's no way I'm going to unfulfill my duty!" "I see... I admire your courage, Mars, and I realize that I asked for your help, but that doesn't mean I'm going to like this situation. Tell me, do the others know about this?" "Only Makoto. I haven't had the courage to tell the others... especially Usagi." "You have to tell them, Mars. And it has to be soon, otherwise, I'm going to order you to remain at the base. And what kind of answer do you think I'm going to give when they ask me why?" "But I can't!! They trust me, and after all I said to Usagi about responsibility, I..." "Mars, Mars!! Listen to yourself! You are saying that they are not going to understand and support you! Do you really believe that?" "... no." "So? Mars, all of you are the closest friends I've ever seen anywhere. You should give them the opportunity to help you. The same way you are there for them, they are there for you. At least, that's how I see it. Am I wrong?" "No. you're right. But let me tell them when the time is right, ok?" "No, Mars. I'm going to give you only this week to tell them. If by the time we have to depart to Cryssalid, you haven't told them, I'll do it. Is that clear?" "But...!" "No 'buts', Mars. I'm sorry, but it has to be that way. I hope you understand." "I understand, but I don't like it!" "And I wouldn't have like it other way. Let me show you the results." Yohann then began to manipulate the controls, and an image appeared on the viewscreen. It was a 3-D image of her results. "Excuse me, Yohann, but I think your devices needs recalibration. There seems to be a double image here." "No, Mars. It's not a double image. What you are seeing is reality." Mars looked at the image, puzzled. Then suddenly, it hit her. "Oh, my God. Do you mean that..." "Yes, Mars. Now you see why I'm worried for your well being. I don't want you to lose that miracle." "I understand now. but I've been capable of defending myself all this time, and I don't want to make an exception this time." Yohann's answer was a big smile. "Come on, Mars. Everybody is waiting for us. Let's go." * * * * Soon, Yohann and Mars joined the rest in the Weapons Test Center, where everyone was wondering what was the issue Yohann wanted to discuss with their friend. When she joined the group, everyone mobbed around her. "Tell us, Mars, what happened back there? Can you tell us?" asked Usagi. "Yeah! I hope there's nothing wrong with you!" said Laurella, a concerned look in her eyes. "No, no, You see, there was..." began Mars, but was interrupted by Yohann, "I'm sorry, girls, but that little piece of information will have to wait a little longer. I'm confident Mars will tell you when she feels fit to. And now, this is what I wanted to show you." He then proceeded to place a silver metal suitcase on a table. When he opened it, everybody noticed that there were 12 rings and two wristwatches inside. Each one of the rings had the alchemical symbol of the girl's respective planets. Each watch had the symbols of the Earth and Jendra respectively. "There was no instructions of what this things really are," began Alex, "however, there was a note from my builder, Doctor Hathaway. He says that this jewelry is for each one of you, girls and guys. They seem to be some sort of protection units for you, but they are in an unstable transmografic matrix." "Excuse me? An unstable trans-what?" asked Robin. "Geez, you don't know a thing, right? All right, let me put it in terms even you can understand... It means that these units have no defined form. They are going to mold themselves according to your own power templates. Even I can't figure out what kind of final form they are going to achieve." Finished Alex. "Excuse me, Yohann, but I don't think we really need this trinkets." Said Haruka. "After all, we are experienced warriors. This things will only hinder our progress." The rest of the gang echoed her sentiments. Yohann looked at them, his face expressionless. "I see... well then, in that case, I have a proposition for you." "What is it, Yohann?" asked Usagi. "To give you a sample of what kind of dangers you are going to face... fight me." "WHAT!?!?" said everyone in unison. "That's right. And to make things interesting, I'm not going to use my weapons, but... this." Yohann then opened a locker, and produced a strange looking rifle. "This, is a paint gun. It shoots paint instead of bullets." "And where are ours?" asked Robin. "You are not going to use guns. I want you to attack me with your normal powers... and don't hold back!" "You have to be kidding! We can't do that! You could die!!" answered Usagi. "I know what I'm doing, girls. And to make you feel better, I'm going to use my armor. That way, if you hit me with your attacks, I won't be seriously hurt. And remember, there is the Medical Ward next door. Well, do you accept my challenge?" Everybody began to conference, pondering the consequences of such turn of events. After all, they were supposed to be working together! But if he was serious about what he said concerning the security of the places they're supposed to attack, then... "All right, we accept your challenge. Where are we going to fight?" asked Usagi in name of everyone. "We can use the Gymnasium. It's equipped with holographic projectors, so I can design any scenario necessary for training. And... to make things even more interesting... Mr. and Mrs. Tsukino, Luna, Chibi-Usa, I'm going to ask for your help. Please, follow me. And for you, girls... I want you to enter the Gymnasium in ten minutes. I'll be waiting for you." And with that, Kenji, Ikuko, Chibi-Usa, Luna and Yohann left the group, heading towards the Gymnasium. "Well, what do you think guys? Why do you suppose he wants my parents for this?" asked Usagi. "Beats me, but I bet it's going to be interesting!" exclaimed Robin. "Ok, enough of chit-chat! There's a fight waiting for us! Let's go!" exclaimed Haruka, and began to walk towards the Gymnasium. Everybody followed suit. Luna was waiting for then outside the Gymnasium. "ok, guys, listen up. Since Yohann wants to show you what are you going to face, he designed a special simulation just for you. You are going to enter a simulated base. He asked us to disengage all the security features on it, so it will be only you and him. The objective here is for all of you to reach the computer core and retrieve the data chips, bringing them back here. Yohann is going to try to stop you. Each time he hits you with his paint gun in any vital part of your bodies, it's going to count as a kill." "Hey, that's not fair! Besides, Prince Endymion and I have armored suits!" exclaimed the Emerald Knight. "I'm afraid it's very fair, EK. You see, we ran a comparison of the bases' defenses and the properties of your armors. I'm sorry to say that they are no match for the weapons you would face there." Endymion and the Emerald Knight gulped. Their armors... no match for their defenses? "Anyway, when the green light above the door turns on, your test will begin. Usagi, your parents, Chibi-Usa and myself will be watching from the control room. We are going to evaluate your performance. Well, good luck, everyone." And with that, Luna entered the Gymnasium again. After a few minutes, the green light turned on, and all entered the place. Everybody looked with awe. They were inside a hangar not too different from the one with the Leviathan. There were two doors in front of them. "All right. It seems that we have to split." Said Usagi. "Uranus, Neptune, Saturn, Pluto and Emerald Knight, you take the left door. The rest of us will take the right. And remember, stay alert. We'll prove Yohann that we are more than capable to handle any situation. Let's go!" But before anyone could take a step, Yohann appeared from the right door, running at full speed! And before anyone could react, he fired a volley of paint. Everyone scattered, but it was too late. Ami received two blasts, one in her left arm, and one in the middle of her chest. Michiru received one in her abdomen, to Haruka's dismay. Without checking the results, Yohann sprinted through the left door, leaving a stunned group of superheroines, wondering what had just happened. Through a series of hidden speakers, everyone heard Luna's voice. "Not a good start, guys. At the beginning, you already lost one of your heavy fighters and your main tactician. Mercury, Neptune, you wait there. The rest proceed." "Go on, guys. We'll be waiting. And stay alert!" said Mercury, looking with dismay the huge marks of yellow paint on her. Haruka had a killer look in her eyes. Yohann was going to pay for this. Ooh, yes. He was going to PAY!! The two groups (minus one element each side) went through each door, everybody fully alert. Everything proceeded smoothly for the first two minutes, until Usagi's group reached an intersection. "Ok, which way now? This place is so different from Yohann's base!" "I say we go right. After all, Haruka's group is left of us." Answered Mamoru. "You're right, muffin. Then right it is!" But when they reached the intersection, a ventilation shaft opened above them, and this time, it was Mamoru who was the victim, receiving a full blast on his noggin! "JUPITER THUNDER CRASH!!!" "MARS FIRE IGNITE!!!" "JENDRA CHROMATIC BLAST!!!" Both attacks hit dead on the ventilation shaft. When the smoke cleared, there was a huge hole on the ceiling... and that was it. No signs of Yohann anywhere. "Mamoru! Muffin! Are you all right?!?!" asked Usagi, examining Mamoru's head. "Yes, I'm fine. Ouch, that hurts!" asked a fuming Prince, still dripping paint. "Endymion," said Luna's voice. "go back to the entrance. You're out of the picture. And don't say anything else. You are dead now." When Mamoru got out of sight, Usagi activated her communicator. "Uranus, listen up. Take care. Yohann is using the ventilation system to sneak on us. He already got my muffin!" "I see. Thanks for the warning. Don't worry, we'll make sure he regrets the moment he made his stupid challenge!" answered Haruka, sounding positively pissed! "Let's go, Usagi. If we continue here, we'll be sitting ducks!" said Rei. "You're right. Besides, I don't think he'll attack us soon." Answered Makoto. They went right of the intersection, but they hadn't taken more than ten steps, when they heard Yohann's voice: "Wrong." He was leaning against the wall, behind them, paint gun at the ready. When the girls began to turn around, he began to fire again, this time hitting Rei on her left side, her ribcage and her right leg. Usagi, Laurella and Makoto had 'hit the dirt' when they heard the whining of Yohann's gun. Before they could stand up again, Yohann was nowhere near them. "I HATE when he does that!" screamed Laurella. "Mars, go to the exit now." Said Luna. " let's go, girls. This time is a matter of honor!" said Usagi. And with that, they proceeded to end their mission. Meanwhile... Setsuna, Haruka, Robin and Shingo were proceeding with extreme caution. Setsuna was looking behind them, Robin was looking at the ventilation shafts, Shingo and Haruka watching intently in front of them. Suddenly, something ran from left to right in front of them. Shingo immediately launched a concentrated ball of Technum energy, hitting it square in the center and sending it tumbling to the end of the corridor. "YES!!" screamed Haruka, running towards it. "NOW YOU'RE MINE!!" "Uranus! NO!!" screamed Setsuna, but Haruka wasn't listening. She only wanted to make Yohann pay for what he did to Michiru. But when she reached the still form on the ground, everybody heard the whining of Yohann's paint gun. From the right of the corridor came a steady stream of paint, spraying Haruka all over her body. "AAAAARRRGGHHH!!!! YOU'RE GOING TO PAAAAAAYYYY!!!" Screamed Haruka, but it was too late. When she wiped the paint out of her eyes, Yohann was nowhere to be seen. "Uranus, that's enough." Said Luna. "Go back to the exit. Besides, Neptune is waiting for you there..." Mumbling something that is better not to print here, Haruka returned to the exit. When the rest of the group examined what Shingo had hit before, they saw a plaque covered with a paint pattern, now charred because of Shingo's attack. "Clever... very clever, I have to admit." Said Shingo. "Yeah, isn't he?" said Robin, a faint smile on her lips. "Saturn, do you feel all right? You look... I don't know... strange." Said Shingo. "Uh? Oh, yeah, I'm fine. Don't worry. Let's go! There's a bunch of memory chips to recover!" * * * * Usagi, Makoto and Laurella had reached a huge room, and for it's appearance, it looked like a storage room of sorts. At the end of the place, there was a door marked "Living quarters <-- Computers room -->" "The most ominous invitation I've ever seen." Commented Makoto, trying to look everywhere at once. "Yeah, you're right, Jupiter. This place is the perfect place for an ambush." Replied Laurella. "But I'm afraid there's no option here, girls. Let's go, and watch your backs! Yohann is giving no truce." Said Usagi, her sword Avenger at the ready. They began to walk slowly towards the back door, watching for any signs of activity. They were at the middle of the storage room when suddenly, two stacks of boxes came stumbling down , blocking the direct access to the door and separating Laurella from the rest. "Jendra, are you all right??" asked Usagi. "Yes, I'm fine. And what about you two?" "We're fine. Can you jump over the boxes to join us?" asked Makoto. "Sure, no prob! Watch out!" 'Wait, Jendra! Don't...!" began to say Usagi, but it was already too late. When Laurella was in the middle of her jump over the boxes, a full spray of paint greeted her. By the time she landed among Makoto and Usagi, she was fully covered with paint, looking completely miserable in front of her friends. "I can't believe it! I felt for the oldest trick in the book!" finally exclaimed Laurella. "You're right, Jendra. Now, be a good girl and go back to the exit." Said Luna. And with that, Laurella jumped back over the boxes and went back to the exit. "Well, what do you think, Jupiter?" said Usagi once they were alone. 'I say that I want to have Yohann on my side anytime!' thought Jupiter. Instead, she said. "I say that we have to go with everything this time. What do you think of this?" and then she whispered something at Usagi's ear. "I don't know, It's too risky, but looking at our actual options... I don't see any other way." Answered Usagi. "All right, now, let's move... JUPITER THUNDER CRASH!!" Makoto launched her attack at the boxes blocking the access, blowing them to kingdom come. When then road was clear, both girls run at a full sprint towards the door, reaching it in no time flat. While Usagi opened the door, Makoto was watching their backs in case Yohann tried to surprise them again. "Clear. Let's go!" said Usagi, and with that, she and Makoto ran again down the corridor, turning right on the interception. They gasped in despair at the sight. The last corridor was at least 80 yards long, with ventilation shafts all over the roof, with pipes running along both walls. In short, the place was even more perfect for an ambush than the storage room! 'Oh, God....' Thought Makoto. "I have an idea. Sailor moon, as soon as I launch my attack, you jump, understood?" "Yes, and it's a great idea, Jupiter. I'm ready." "ok, here goes nothing... JUPITER THUNDER CRASH!!" Her attack ran all the length of the hall, blowing all the lights and electrifying all the metal on its way. When the electric discharge ran towards the girls, they jumped as high as they could, avoiding the shock. When the charge dissipated, they began a desperate sprint towards the door at the end of the hall, hoping that Yohann hadn't a strategy to get them so near their goal! " We made it! I can't believe it! We beat Yohann!" exclaimed Usagi. " Yeah! I bet he's lying unconscious somewhere in the ventilation ducts! That will show him!" exclaimed Makoto. 'And that will show him not to mess with me!' she added for herself. It was unfortunate that Makoto's attack left the corridor in the darkness. It was also unfortunate that the computer room was profusely illuminated. When Usagi opened the door, both were blinded for a second... and it was only a second Yohann needed to bath them with paint from head to toe! "OH NO!!!" screamed Usagi after she recovered from the shock. "Oooh, yes, Sailor Moon. Now, you and Jupiter go back to the exit." Said Luna. "Don't feel so bad, Usagi. You made your best, and that's what counts in the end." Said Yohann, putting his hand on her shoulder. "But that wasn't enough!" Said Usagi, tears brimming her blue eyes. "Come on, Usagi... let's go." Said Makoto, not daring to look at Yohann. When he was alone, Yohann asked Alex. "Don't you think I was too harsh with them? I could have gone easier with this." "Nonsense, pork chops! After all, the defenses at the bases aren't going to be paint guns." "Yes, you're right. Come one, there's the other group to deal with..."And with that, he picked up his gun and proceeded to hunt the rest. * * * * "Sailor Moon? Sailor Jendra? Sailor Jupiter? Anybody? Come on, answer me!" Robin was trying all the frequencies of her communicator, but there was nothing but silence. "It seems that Yohann wiped out the other team. That means that we are the only survivors of this exercise." Said Shingo. Setsuna was mounting guard against any trick planned by Yohann. They were at the other side of the Living Quarters, not letting their guards down one second. There were at least 12 bunks on the room. "I believe your appreciation is correct, Emerald Knight. However, don't forget the objective of this exercise. To retrieve the memory chips from the computer room." Said Setsuna. "Right. Now, let's go. Yohann has proved to be very resourceful. We have to be extremely careful now." Answered Shingo. They began to cross the Living Quarters, looking everywhere, especially the ventilation shaft in the middle of the roof. Suddenly, the shaft began to send a powerful wind gust, sending the blankets all over the place, obscuring their vision. "Look out everyone! He's here!!" screamed Setsuna over the wind roar. Under the bed to her right, appeared Yohann, spraying her all over her front. Shingo saw that, and sent a ray of raw Technum towards the bed, but Yohann was faster, dodging the incoming attack and running out the door towards the computer room. "Pluto, I... I don't know how to say this, but you have to return to the exit." Said Luna, her voice trembling a little. And with a shocked look in her eyes, Sailor Pluto left the stunned pair to their luck, still not believing that she was defeated so easily. Robin and Shingo went to the other door, leaving the pandemonium behind. When they closed the door, they looked at the darkened corridor. "It looks like this is where they made their last stand." Said Shingo. "Yeah, and for the looks of it, it wasn't pretty. I bet they shocked Yohann!" answered Robin. "He looked healthy back there. Now, let's see..." Shingo then produced a small ball of radiating Technum, illuminating partially the long, darkened corridor. "Geez, it looks creepier now..." commented Robin, her weapon at the ready. "We have no other choice, Saturn. Or do you prefer to go in the dark?" "No way!" "Ok, then... let's go." They walked slowly along the long corridor, watching with suspicion every shadow they encountered. A few tense minutes later, they reached the computer room. After charging his energy ball full to the max, Shingo took position behind Robin, who crouched in front of the door and opened it. Nothing happened. After making sure that they were alone, Robin proceeded to the main computer, opening a panel next to it and began to remove the memory chips, while Shingo was mounting guard. "Yeah! We got them! We won!" exclaimed Robin, bouncing on her feet. "Not yet, Saturn." Said Luna. "Remember, it will be over when you take them to the entrance." "Are you sure, Luna? I mean... we got the chips!" said a disheveled Emerald Knight. "Yes, I'm sure. Don't you remember that I already said that before you went into the room?" "She's right, EK. She said that. And you know what this mean, right?" said Robin. " Yeah... Oh, man! This is so unfair!" answered Shingo, kicking the floor with his boot. "We better get going. I don't want to be the next victim!" And with that, they began to walk, looking everywhere. When they reached the intersection, both decided to take Usagi's route. But when they looked at the storage room, they changed their mind. But when they were about to turn back, Yohann jumped down from the ventilation shaft on the intersection, and shoot a quick shot at Shingo's neck, hitting him and turning him into a temporary half-blonde! Robin, after hearing Shingo's surprised gasp, instinctively jumped inside the storage room, closing the door behind her, knowing that Shingo was a casualty. 'Oh, no...' thought Robin. 'I'm the last survivor! What am I going to do now?? I'm at Yohann's mercy!...' But when she thought of that, her humor immediately changed. 'Wait a minute! I'm... at... YOHANN'S MERCY!?!? That's it! Now I know what to do!' Robin then proceeded to walk calmly towards the end of the storage room, seemingly without preoccupations. Yohann, who was watching her hidden behind the boxes near the door, began to wonder what was she doing. 'Why is she walking so careless? I don't think she has already given up!' When he heard her approaching the door, he prepared himself to paint her. Suddenly, the footsteps stopped. 'What happened? Where is she?' thought Yohann. 'Do you want me to run a sensor sweep, sweetie?' transmitted Alex. 'No, Alex. We haven't been doing it, and I don't want to start now.' 'As you wish, honey, but be careful. I don't trust this bimbo one bit!' 'Cut it out, Alex! I can take her as easily as the rest!' 'As you say, sweetie. I know you can do it!' Yohann was beginning to consider if to risk to peek over the boxes or not, when he felt a light tap on his right shoulder. He immediately spun, only to face a smiling Robin, her hands behind her back, standing calmly in front of him! He brought up his paint gun, ready to spray her, but Robin didn't move one inch, still smiling broadly at him. Impasse! Slowly, very slowly, Robin began to extend her right hand, opening it. A handful of memory chips dropped to the floor, to Yohann's surprise. He lowered his gun, completely puzzled. Then, Robin walked towards him, smiling sweetly and rocking her hips in a hypnotic way that completely paralyzed Yohann. Yohann was completely baffled, so much, that he wasn't receiving Alex's transmissions. He was unable to take his eyes off this temptress! His mouth was dry, and he was sweating profusely under his armor, not to mention that he was completely immobile. And with an agonizing slowness, she reached his belt, touching the blue jewel on the buckle, and with her most seductive voice, she said "armor... out". Immediately, the armor began to retract, leaving Yohann completely vulnerable. As soon as he was completely defenseless, Robin proceeded to put her arms around his neck, and again, with deliberate slowness... She kissed him. It was a long, looong kiss. Not a passionate kiss, or a rushed one. It was delicate, like the touch of a butterfly's wing, like the breeze on a spring day. She took her time, lasting at least one full minute. Yohann was completely shocked. His mind was locked, not a single thought ran through it. He felt his body heavy as a ton of bricks. Unconsciously, he opened his hand, dropping his paint gun, which clanked lifeless on the metal floor of the storage room. After she finished kissing Yohann, Robin winked at him, still smiling sweetly at him, and after teasingly touching his nose with her right index finger, she then proceeded to pick up the memory chips. When she finished, she calmly went through the door and to the exit. Yohann stood there, immobile, breathing heavily, not even blinking, his lips tingling. There was only one thought on his confused mind. The kiss... He wasn't able to even receive Alex's frantic (not to mention irate) transmissions regarding his incompetence and other things. He was only reliving in his mind Robin's kiss, not knowing what to think of it. After a couple of minutes, he reactivated his armor, picked the paint gun, and walked toward the entrance of the Gymnasium, still pondering about Robin's last action. * * * * Everybody was congratulating Robin for her outstanding success, not believing that she was able to outsmart Yohann! Of course, Robin didn't mention what she had to do to get out of there unscratched. When Yohann got out of the simulated base, Luna immediately disconnected the holographic projectors, ending the test. "Well, what do you think of this, Yohann?" said a proud Usagi. "Before I answer your question, first I want to congratulate all of you for your brave attempt at infiltrating one of your bases. Second, I want to especially congratulate Sailor Saturn for her... err... unorthodox maneuver." "Thank you, Yohann!" said an ecstatic Robin, who looked at Makoto and winked at her. 'I wonder what she did back there, but I have the suspicion that round two went for her..." thought Makoto. "And now, for the results of this test... I'm going to leave Luna to evaluate you. Luna?" said Yohann, pointing at the cat that went out of the control room, an angry expression on her feline features. "Thank you, Lieutenant Starr." She said with a cold, emotionless voice, a fact that draw everybody's attention. "Now, listen up, girls! Yes, Sailor Saturn was able to get out of the base with the chips, but what about the rest of you!?!? Have you thought that, if this was a REAL mission, there will be no more Sailor Scouts, nor Sailor Senshis, and even worse, no more Crystal Tokyo in the future!?!?" Of course. No one thought about this. True, this was only a simulation, but Yohann had proved his point. And it was only he now! And what if he had included simulations of automatic defenses? Perhaps they couldn't have even reached the first intersections! The seriousness of the situation began to slowly dawn on everybody's mind. It was especially hard for Haruka. She was proved wrong, and what was worse, Yohann took advantage of her emotions to get rid of her without a fuss!! "Don't be so harsh with them, Luna. That's why Doctor Hathaway and Commander Galos included that special equipment. And that's why I want your help to develop a crash training program to prevent this from happening in reality. And now, are you sure you don't want that equipment?" asked Yohann. "I stand corrected, Yohann. And I gladly accept your equipment." Said Haruka, still angry after her experience. "Thank you, Sailor Uranus. But first, can I ask you all one small favor?" "Of course, what is it?" "Please... take a bath first. The paint is not water proof, so there will be no problem." * * * * Back at the Gate of Time... Commander Galos was trying his best not to burst out laughing. He watched the whole simulation, and was impressed (to say the least) with Yohann's performance. "Yep, that's my boy," he said to himself. "I knew he could do it. I wonder what's Setsuna's opinion of him..." Like he was chanting an invocation, Setsuna crossed in that instant the Gate of Time, still with yellow paint on her Scout uniform. When she noticed the Commander's presence, she stared at him intently. "Don't dare to say anything, Galos. I'm not in the mood." "I'm aware of that, Setsuna. And remember, you asked me to keep an eye on the Gate. Just a question: What do you think of him? Is he what I told you or is he?" " Yes, Galos. He is. Now, if you excuse me, I have to get into something a little more... presentable." "Allow me, Setsuna..." With that, Galos pointed a silver cylinder towards Setsuna, bathing her with a white, soft ray. Immediately, all the paint disappeared, leaving her completely clean. "Thank you, Galos. That's a handy gadget." Said Setsuna, after checking her suit and her Time Key. "You're welcome, Setsuna. I made it built just for you." Answered Galos with a smile. "And now, I suggest that you return. I'll keep watch here." "You're right. And thank you." And with that, Setsuna returned to Gaia. * * * * Half an hour later, everybody was back in the Weapons Test Center, and again, everyone had triggered their transformations. When everything was set, Yohann gave each one their respective jewelry. "All right, everyone, listen up. According to Alex's analysis, you have to wear this rings in you powered form. We don't know what's going to be their final form, but we think it will be interesting. To activate your armors, just place the jeweled hand on your chests, and think 'activate'. That's all. And now, give it a try and see what we have here!" Everyone agreed, and placed their hands on their chest, thinking on activating them. Immediately, the units began to glow, and began to cover their bodies. When the glow subsided, they all admired their brand new techno-armors. Unlike Yohann's, they seemed to be made of some sort of fluid metal, that molded to their bodies with anatomic accuracy. The Senshis had boots, gauntlets and chess plates. They now had helmets that covered their heads that seamlessly joined their high-tech lenses. Usagi had a silver unit, Robin had similar equipment in metallic crimson, and Michiru's was aquamarine in color. Their boots reached to the knee, and had some sort of exhaust ports near the heels. But the Scouts' armors were something completely different. Their armors covered them completely, from head to toe. They all were wearing now full armors, equipped with helmets with visors and high-tech looking boots. Even Chibi-Usa was wearing one! The only differences were the colors of the armors. Chibi-Usa's was a pink one, with lenses a darker shade of pink. Ami's was a soft shade of blue, her visor now grafted to the helmet, and her computer embedded on her left forearm. Rei's was a bright red one, her visor being orange. Makoto's was an olive green, with light green visor. Laurella's was a shining silver one, almost looking like aluminum; her lens had a metallic gleam on them. Haruka's was a bright green one, with a blue visor. Setsuna's was a violet one, with a red visor. Even Mamoru and Shingo's armors were upgraded. Mamoru's was now a full body armor, silver like Usagi's but with smoked lenses. Shingo's armor wasn't so different in external appearance, but his left gauntlet was slightly bulkier than the right one, the same as Mamoru's. Yohann looked at them in awe, but not showing it on his face. "Alex, try to link with their armors and find out their abilities, will you?" "As you wish, sweet buns. Now, let me see..." Alex began to emit a soft sound, like a high-speed modem, and a few minutes later, she had her answer. "Sweetie, you are not going to believe it. It seems that their armors are fully compatible with their powers AND with our weaponry, although no available weapon is at hand. Besides, the armors absorb the surrounding energy, supercharging their natural powers! Also, each unit has special abilities, although I can't determine which one. Sorry, that's all I can say for now, honey." "Hey, neat! Then our powers can be more powerful?" asked Laurella. "That's right. You are no longer the only power source of your attacks," said Yohann. "The armors will absorb extra energy from the surrounding environment and will add it to your normal powers. Besides, they are made of regenerating metal, even more complex than mine. You can wistand now the direct hit from a plasma rifle without a problem. Also, they are linked to Ami's computer and Alex, therefore you can receive all the tactical information as they. As for their special abilities, that is, if they have one, well... you know as much as I do." "That's incredible, Yohann! How did you designed this thing?" asked Makoto. "I can answer this one, sweet buns." Interjected Alex. "They are prototype units. This project was on advanced development when this situation arose. It seems that Doc Hathaway thought this could be a good moment to test them under real conditions." "What?? You mean that we are guinea pigs for this things???" screamed Haruka. "Not at all, you amazon! That means that you have the honor to use the most advanced defense prototypes in the whole known universe! And to boot, you are going to be working close with me, the most advanced Artificial Intelligence ever created! And you dare to decline this honor?? Oh, the humanity!" Responded Alex with her most dramatic tone. "That's all, ladies." Said Endymion. "Luna, have you finished the simulations? I think we have to learn how to use our new equipment." "As a matter of fact," said Luna, who was waiting near the door, a wicked smile on her face, "I do. And believe me, you are going to love them! Kenji helped me a lot with that one!" "What?? You have to be kidding, Luna! DAD helped you!?!?" asked a very surprised Usagi. "Yes, dear." Answered Ikuko, holding Kenji's arm. "Perhaps you don't remember, but your grandfather, that is, you dad's father, was a soldier during world war II, and teached your father a lot of military tactics, besides that he was a great soldier during his military service. He almost joined permanently to follow a career in the army." "But... why didn't you tell me before, dad?" "Well, for starters, I didn't think it was necessary to tell you about it. After all, you were a normal girl that only wanted to get married. But now that I know you are fighting for the world, I'm glad to be of help. And now, little lady, I'm going to make sure you are a great tactical leader! And Luna is going to make sure you don't skip a single training day!" answered Kenji with a big smile and a glimmer in his eyes. "And don't forget," said Ikuko, equally smiling, "that we are going to make sure you keep in line with your studies! You have no more excuses to use!" Usagi cringed under their asseverations, knowing that this time, she was completely and utterly trapped! * * * * 4 days before departure... The girls were together in Chibi-Usa's room back at the base. Haruka, Michiru and Setsuna were out on their own chores. Laurella was back with her parents, but promised to be back for next day's training session. They were discussing today's training session, when Ikuko entered the room. "Hello, girls. What are you talking about?" "Hi, mom." Said Usagi. "We were only discussing today's training. Why did dad have to program today's session so hard? My muscles ache so much!" "Yes, Mrs. Tsukino. I was 'killed' two times today! I don't think Luna ever made us train so hard!" said Makoto. "Not to mention that I had already computed our probabilities of success as 97.45% on today's exercise, and Luna and your husband suddenly changed the parameters of the whole simulation." Answered Ami. "That's the whole idea, dear." Said Ikuko with a smile. "You have to learn to expect the unexpected. Besides, I wanted to ask you if you wanted some tea. I was going to prepare some." "Not me, Mrs. Tsukino, thank you." Answered Rei, still rubbing her sore legs. "Same here. As a matter of fact, I'm going to take a hot bath." Said Laurella. Ami, Usagi and Makoto said the same thing. "I'll take a tea with you, Mrs. Tsukino." Said Robin, standing up and walking to the door. "Me too! Me Too!" said Chibi-Usa, almost bowling over Robin on her haste to reach the door. "Ok, Girls. Let's go. And for the rest of you, don't forget that you still have to make your homework." Said Ikuko while she closed the door, still able to hear the generalized groan coming from the room. When the trio reached the kitchen, Ikuko then proceeded to place a large teakettle. Robin took the cups and plates, the ones that Chibi-Usa placed on the counter. When the tea was ready, Ikuko poured it on the cups and sat near the girls. "Robin," began Chibi-Usa, "I wanted to ask you something." "Yes, honey, what is it?" "The first day you entered the simulation, you were the only one who came out alive, while the rest were 'killed' by Yohann. I watched how you did it. Why did you kiss Yohann? How did you come out with that idea?" asked Chibi-Usa with all innocence. Robin choked over her cup, and her face was completely red at this point, not knowing how to answer that question. After all, how are you going to explain to a 7-year-old girl about the "facts of life"? Fortunately for her, Ikuko came to her rescue. "Because, dear, she thought that would be the best course of action. Sometimes, it's better to use your brains rather than your brawn. She had already noticed that strength wasn't accomplishing anything against Yohann, so she took a different approach." "Uuuh... yeah. That's right. That's what I thought." Added Robin, while nodding at Ikuko thanking her for her opportune intervention. Boy, that was a close one! "Chibi, dear, I left some cookies in your room. Would you like to bring them? They're chocolate cookies..." said Ikuko, winking an eye at Robin's direction. "Chocolate cookies! On my way!" said Chibi-Usa, who immediately ran toward her room in search of the cookies. When they were alone, Ikuko looked straight into Robin's eyes, and said. "You like Yohann, don't you?" Robin lowered her gaze, not knowing what to answer. After a few seconds, she whispered, "I... I don't know. I never felt like this before. When I'm with him, the only thing I can think is how wonderful it could be to be embraced by his strong arms, looking inside his beautiful eyes, and... and... I..." Ikuko took Robin's cup from her hands, taking Robin's hands inside one of hers, while placing the other under her chin. When Robin looked up, she saw Ikuko smiling softly at her, a knowing look in her eyes. "Let me see if I can complete your phrase. You want to know everything about him, and want to spend the rest of your life with him. Is that right?" "Yes! That's exactly what I want! How did you know??" asked a startled Robin. "Oh, dear, because that's exactly how I felt the first day I met my dear Kenji. And believe me, he was just the same as Yohann is now!" "He was?? And how did you won his heart?" At that same moment, Chibi-Usa arrived with the package of cookies. "Uh? Who's heart? What are you talking about?" "It's nothing important dear. As a matter of fact, I think that one day, we all must get together and have a serious chat about how to get together with men. What do you think, Robin?" "Excellent idea, Mrs. Tsukino! How about when we return from the mission?" "Then it's a deal. Now, let's eat these delicious cookies, shall we?" And with that, ended the conversation, leaving a confused Chibi-Usa looking at both women, thinking that if this is what it meant being a grown-up, she'll ask Pluto to leave her as a child forever! * * * * At the same time... Yohann, Mamoru, Shingo and Kenji were enjoying the Jacuzzi, relaxing after today's exhausting training. "Dad, you really outdid yourself today. I thought I had the hang of your tactics by now, but changing the parameters like that!" said Shingo. "Yes, Mr. Tsukino. Luna has us on constant training, but you are something else entirely! At least, today we only took two casualties, but if you keep us on your toes like today, I don't think we'll be able to be even alive for Yohann's mission!" added Mamoru. Everybody laughed at his remark... except Yohann, who was silent all the time. "What's the matter, Yohann? You've been all business all this days. Come on, relax, or you'll bust a muscle being so tense!" said Shingo, looking straight at Yohann's eyes. "Yes, Yohann. We're all friends here. What's the matter? You can trust us, you know?" was Mamoru's contribution to the conversation. Yohann was startled when they began to talk. He slowly blinked, and looked at the three men looking at him. "UH? Oh, sorry, I wasn't paying attention. What were you saying?" "Yes, we can see that!" said Kenji. "Tell us, son. What has you so worried? Certainly it's not only the mission, because everytime you talk about it, you sound too confident. You can trust us with your secret. We won't tell." "Yeah." Said Shingo. "After all, if you're not focussed, what will happen then? Come on, spill your guts!" Yohann lowered his gaze, looking at one interesting set of bubbles near the edge of the Jacuzzi. After a few seconds, he began to explain. "Well, you see... do you remember the first day we all entered the simulation?" "Oh, yes. Don't remind me that one! You wiped the floor with all of us without a sweat!" said Mamoru, cringing for the memory, and unconsciously touching his head. Shingo did the same with his neck. "Well, then... you remember that Robin was the only one who finished the mission successfully, right?" "Yeah! That's what I've wanted to ask you about! How did she do it? I mean, you sneaked on all of us like you were invisible! What was her strategy?" asked Shingo. "Let me answer that one, Shingo." Said Kenji. Yohann looked at him, his face a pale expressionless mask, but his eyes begging him for an answer. "Robin used the most unusual strategy I've ever seen. She went after his feelings" "UH??" asked both Mamoru and Shingo at the same time, alternating their puzzled looks between Kenji and Yohann. "And the most curious thing, is that the same thing happened to me once." Ended Kenji, with a big smile on his face. "Even more, I bet that the same thing happened to you once, Mamoru." Now, Mamoru looked completely out of balance. "Let me ask you something, Yohann..." continued Kenji. "You are single, right? I mean, there's no one waiting for you at home, right?" "Yes, sir. That's correct. But I'm perfectly happy with my work and duties." "I see... so that's the problem here. And... if my information of Usagi's friends is right, there's someone else in here... right?" Yohann looked puzzled, not knowing what to say. But nevertheless, he answered. "Yes, you're right. And that's precisely the problem. She too is so nice with me, and such a good friend. I don't know what to think of this anymore. I've run out of options! Can you help me?" At that same moment, Mamoru and Shingo suddenly realized what was going on. No wonder Yohann was so confused! They had their problems with their respective girlfriends, but he was on another league entirely! "Then... you mean that..." started Shingo. "... there are TWO girls after Yohann??" finished Mamoru. "That's correct, guys. And I know how he feels right now. I was faced with something of the sorts once." Said Kenji, adding his grain of salt to the conversation. "And there's only one thing I can say to you, Yohann." "Yes, sir? Right now, I need all the help I can get!" said Yohann, anxiety lacing his voice. "You have to follow your heart, and let it guide you to the end... oh, yes, and one more thing..." "Yes?" "Loose all hope of escaping them. If they are set of getting you, there's no force in the universe that can prevent that from happening!" finished Kenji, laughing his heart out almost evilly. "That's right, Yohann! I know from first-hand experience!" added Mamoru, laughing too. Yohann and Shingo looked at them, Shingo confused and Yohann with an air of resignation surrounding him. After a few moments, they joined the others in their laugh. After all, well looked, it was sort of comic! * * * * 2 days before departure... Yohann was reading the results of today's training on his computer desk. 'Not bad. They are handling better than I expected. At this rate, everybody will be ready for the mission earlier than expected.' At that same moment, he heard a soft knock on the door. "Come in." Ami entered the office, compact in hand. "Good afternoon, Yohann... sorry for interrupting you, but, can I speak a moment with you?" "Certainly, Ami. As a matter of fact, I was checking the results of today's training. I have to tell, you girls really impress me." "Thank you, Yohann." said Ami, a faint blush on her cheeks. "But I want to talk with you about someone else entirely... You see, is about someone missing..." Ami began to fiddle her fingers, not knowing what else to say. "Let me see... You refer about Minako, right?" Yohann looked at Ami, trying to figure out what the petit girl tried to tell him. "Yes." "That's something I wanted to ask you all. What happened to her? I didn't ask before because I was expecting one of you could tell me when you feel comfortable." "Thank you, Yohann... It's because of her actual condition that is hard for me to tell you, but the situation is as follows..." and Ami began to tell Yohann about their encounter with Gallagher, how Minako ended up in an extended coma, and her relationship with her. "... And that's the story so far. Is there something you could do to help her? I mean, with all the medical facilities you have here, there must be something you could do for her! It hurts me so much to see her on that condition, that... I... I..." At this point, Ami tried to hold up her tears, without too much success. Yohann stood up and walked towards Ami; when he was in front of her, he placed a hand under her chin, and raising her face so she could see him in the eyes, he answered her. "Look, Ami... I don't know what I can do without having all the actual information of her, and to tell you the truth, I can't go with you to the hospital. Time is getting critical at this point, and I have to monitor all the activities here." "I... I understand, Yohann... thank you for listening, and I'm sorry for distracting you..." Ami then began to walk towards the door. Could that mean that there was no hope for Minako? That she must remain on a coma for the rest of her life? Suddenly, she felt a hand on her shoulder, stopping her. "Not so fast, Ami. The fact that I can't leave the base now doesn't mean that I can't help. I see that you have your compact computer with you. Can I have it for just a second, please?" "Uh?... sure, but what are you going to do?" "You'll see..." Yohann then took the computer from Ami's hands and placed it on his desk. "Alex, I want you to run a diagnostic on Ami's computer. See if you can transfer a big program to it." "Of course, sweetie! What kind of program do you want to place on that toy?" answered Alex. "An artificial intelligence program, Alex. And a very complex one, I must add." "On my way, pork chops! Let me see..." Alex then proceeded to examine the capabilities on Ami's compact, and a few seconds later, she gave her diagnosis. "Yep. There's more than enough computer power and memory on that thing to hold and run a really big program, baby. But... can I ask you something?" "Yes, Alex?" "You mentioned an artificial intelligence program? I don't recall having an artificial intelligence program on this base besides..." At this point, Alex realized what Yohann was planning. The nerve of some people! "Oooh, no... you are not going to get rid of me that easily! No way! Not now, not ever in your life!" "Come on, Alex. There's someone here who is asking for help, and you are denying yours? I never expected that from you!" "But do you realize what you're asking, sweet buns? You are going to be alone here, with all those... those... women after you! I can't let you suffer like that!" "Excuse me..." at this point, Ami was almost openly crying. She was feeling completely defeated at this point. "I... sorry for making you lose your time, but I think I'll search for help somewhere else. Thank you anyway..." And with that, she grabbed her compact and ran out of the office. There was a heavy silence on the office for a few minutes. Yohann then seated back in front of his desk, activating the computer, and reading some files about the medical programs available. It was then that Alex started to talk. "Sweet buns?" "..." "Baby?" "..." "Honey?" "..." "Can we talk?" "There's nothing to say, Alex." Finally said Yohann, his voice cold and emotionless. "But, sweetie..." "Shut up, Alex. You really disappointed me here. And let me add... I'm going to leave you here when the girls and I depart to the mission." "What?? You are crazy! You are not going to survive without your armor, or me!" "And don't you think I'm not aware of that??" snapped Yohann, anger filling his voice. "The fact is, someone was asking for help, and you are the most qualified for aiding her! By denying your help, you are proving to me that you are not reliable for any kind of mission, therefore I'm relieving you from your duties with me." "You can't do that! Come on, reconsider your decision, sweetie! You can't be serious!" Without saying anything else, Yohann proceeded to remove Alex from his waist, placing her on the desk. He then walked to the door, and without looking back, he only said; "Goodbye, Alex." And closed the door behind him, leaving Alex alone in the room. * * * * Ami was openly crying on her bed, alone in her room. She couldn't believe that they didn't want to help her with Minako! They were so heartless! Suddenly, the computer on her desk activated by itself. Curious, Ami stood up and walked to the computer, drying her tears. When she approached it, a voice came out from the speakers. "Ami? Are you there?" Ami was startled. No... it can't be... "Alex? Is that you??" "Finally! Girl, you are one tough person to find, you know? Well, let's do it!" "Excuse me? What do you mean? Do what?" " figures... you make one little joke, and everybody thinks you're the villain of the picture... Ok, look. Link your compact with this computer, and then we can go, ok?" "Go?" Ami still couldn't fully comprehend what was going on. It was happening so fast! "Sorry, but I'm not following you." "And you are the genius of the group? Geez... Ok, listen carefully... connect your compact to this computer, then I'll download myself to it, and then we can go to the hospital and check on your friend. Is it clear now for you?" Ami couldn't believe it! Alex was going to help her! "Y...Yes! Oh, Alex! Thank you! I don't know how to repay you this favor! You truly are a great program!" "Yeah, yeah... I know. Well? What are you waiting for? An engraved invitation? Let's move, we don't have all day!" A few minutes later, Ami and Alex were on their way to the hospital where Minako was hospitalized. Without them noticing, their departure was observed by Yohann from his office, a big smile on his face and one thought on his mind: "Thank you, Alex. I knew you wouldn't let us down." * * * * Ami was standing aside Minako's bed, feeling terrible each time she looked at her lover in that state. 'Oh, my love. Don't worry. I brought help, just wait a little longer. Don't give up!' "All right, Ami. Place me on your friend's chest, and I'll do the rest." Said Alex from Ami's compact. "Don't you need any help? I mean, you don't know my computer and perhaps..." "Nonsense, girl! I had more than enough time to check your hardware, and it's more than adequate for this task. Now, do as I said, and stand back." Retorted Alex. Ami then placed Alex on Minako's chest, and waited. She was still waiting for the results when the door of the extensive care unit opened, and entered the last person she wanted to see in that instant. "Oh, hello, mom!" "Hello, dear. I didn't expect to see you here this late." Said Dr. Mizuno. She then noticed Ami's compact on Minako's chest, and frowned to Ami. "Ami, you know the rules. You can't put any makeup on Minako's face. And why did you put your compact on her chest?" Dr. Mizuno then tried to grab the compact, but was stopped by a voice that came from it. "Excuse me, doctor, but you have to wait for me to finish here. Then you can take me from here. Thanks!!" She immediately withdrew her hand and jumped back. "What!?!? Ami, what's this?? Your compact... talked to me!" Ami was feeling sick now. 'Oh, God... how am I going to explain this!?!? And why did Alex have to talk now??' "Well, mom... you see, I..." At that same instant, Alex talked again. "I'm done here, Ami. Let's return to the base, there are some things I want to check on the medcom database. And oh, yes! Hello there, doctor. My name is Alex, pleased to meet you." Ami then took her compact, feeling like roadkill. Her face was pale beyond comparison, with a blue-ish tinge on it. "err... sorry mom, but I have to go now. See you back home, ok? Bye!" and with that, she tried to get out of the room... with no avail. "Hold it right there, young lady!" said her mother with the most authoritative voice Ami ever heard her using! She stopped cold on her tracks. "you are not going anywhere unless you explain certain things to me. For starters, how is it your compact can talk, and what does it mean to go back to a base? What base? And what is this about a 'medcom database'?" This was too much for poor Ami, and she did the only thing a sane person could do under such tense circumstances. She fainted. Ami woke up some time later, not knowing how much time she was out cold. 'Oh, God... what a nightmare! I dreamt that Alex was talking with my mom via my compact!' She then opened her eyes and noticed that she was on her mom's office at the hospital; she was lying on the coach, and her mother was looking at her from her desk, Ami's computer in front of her completely open. 'Oh no! it wasn't a dream! What am I going to do now!?!' "Hello, dear. Slept well?" said her mother. "You had me worried there for a moment, but Alex assured me that you were fine. You were out for 20 minutes." "That's right, Ami." Said Alex. "Sorry, but I had to prevent your mother from interrupting my analysis. I'm afraid I had to explain to your mother a few things." Knowing that there was no escape from this now, Ami asked. "Certain things? Like what? What did you tell my mom??" "Well, dear," began her mother. "For starters, she explained to me that she's a very complex computer program, that she's not from this planet and she was only trying to determine Minako's condition in order to find an adequate treatment for her. She also told me about certain secret base here with excellent medical facilities. Do you want to add something else?" Ami felt like she had swallowed an iceberg! No wonder Alex didn't want to help her in the first place! And how was she going to explain Yohann all this!?!? "No, mom... that's all." She whispered. "Good, because I'm going to take you and Alex to that base and see those facilities for myself. After all, Minako is my patient, and I'm not going to allow her to be moved if the conditions aren't adequate for her recovery." "WHAT!?!?" almost screamed both Ami and Alex. Ami felt like she was going to black out again, and Alex began to calculate how much damage Yohann was going to do to her for revealing the base's location! "Come on, you two! Only from the medical point of view, I'm interested in learning new medical techniques that can be applied here, and as a parent, I want to make sure that my daughter is safe. And let me assure you both... I'm not going to let anyone of you out of here unless you accept the idea of me going with you. Am I clear?" Ami only stood up from the coach and took her compact. When she looked at the screen, she noticed that there was an animated graphic on it: a white flag undulating. She understood the message. Both of them were defeated, and what her mother was asking was their unconditional surrender. There was only one way for Ami and Alex to get out of the office in one piece. They capitulated. * * * * When Yohann saw Ami's mother on the living room, he was taken back by the surprise. What was the meaning of all this? What was she doing here? Even more, what was she doing with Ami's computer on her lap?? "Good afternoon. Sorry, but I don't think I have the pleasure of knowing you. I'm Yohann Starr, and welcome to my humble house." "Pleased to meet you, Mr. Starr. I'm Ami's mother, Doctor Mizuno Akane. Your house is beautiful." Said Dr. Mizuno, standing up and shaking Yohann's hand, still holding Ami's computer in her hand. "Thank you, you are very kind. Excuse me, where are my manners? Can I offer you anything?" said Yohann, looking discretely at Ami. 'I wonder why does she look so depressed? I hope there was nothing serious with Minako's condition!' "As a matter of fact... yes, Mr. Starr. There's something you can offer me. How about a visit to your medical facilities? Alex and my daughter told me that they are state of the art." Said Dr. Mizuno, looking at Yohann straight into his eyes. To say that Yohann was shocked is putting it mildly! He felt his heart missing a couple of beats. How did things go so wrong? How did this woman found out about Alex? Even more, how did she know about the base's medical facilities?? "Ex... Excuse me? What did you say?" "Don't worry, your secret is safe with me. What I want to know, is if your facilities are adequate for an extensive coma treatment. I think that's why Alex and my daughter went today to the hospital to check on my patient's condition." Answered Dr. Mizuno. Yohann took seat in one of the chairs. After thinking about the situation for a couple of minutes, he said. "Ami, why don't you take Alex to my office? I think that your mother and I have a lot of things to discuss... and please, can you tell the rest of the girls and Usagi's parents to come here as well? Oh, yes. And when Alex is back on her place, bring her too. There are certain things she has to explain to me as well. Thank you." A couple of hours later... "Now, let me see if I get this straight..." began Dr. Mizuno. "my daughter and her friends are the famous Sailor Scouts, now becoming the Sailor Senshis. You are from another planet on a mission to save the earth from something that happened millennia ago, and this house is not a house at all, but a camouflaged base with all the equipment and facilities you need to accomplish this mission. Am I correct?" "In a nutshell... yes, you are correct." Said Yohann. He already had Alex back on the belt, and received the report from the hospital visit. He understood that there was no other way out for Ami and Alex, but nevertheless that didn't make him happier. "Please, Mrs. Mizuno. We beg you not to reveal any of this. We have to continue being a secret for the rest of the world until the time is right." Said Usagi. The rest of the Sailors and her parents were looking intently at Ami's mother, the same request mutely showed on their eyes. "Of course. As I already said to Lt. Starr here, your secret is safe with me. But I have only one condition for you all." "And what condition is that?" asked Kenji. "That I'm part of all of this as well. After all, you are going to need someone with medical expertise to operate the medical wing of the base, and I want to make sure that Minako receives an adequate treatment when she is brought here." "I understand, Akane." Said Ikuko. Everybody looked at her. "And as a parent, I know you also want to make sure that your daughter is safe, the same as ourselves. On my part, there's no objection. What about the rest of you?" Everybody looked at everybody else. All of them understood her reasons, and reached to the same conclusion. There was no objection of having Dr. Mizuno as part of the team. "Well, Dr. Mizuno, welcome to our team. And now, if you please follow me, I'll show you the base." Said Yohann. And with that, both of them went to the swimming pool to enter the base. * * * * 1 day before departure... Yohann was back in his quarters after a tough day in the Gymnasium. He was taking a shower, thinking of today's training. 'I still can't believe it. The way these girls got the hang of their equipment in such a short time... and I'm glad to have Dr. Mizuno on the team. Even with the medcom, I'd have difficulties taking care of Minako.' The comatose girl was transferred from the hospital to the base early that day, and with the help of Dr. Mizuno, Alex and Ami, a treatment was quickly developed to treat the girl. With any luck, she would be back from the coma in a couple of days. She even agreed to transfer Technuma Saturn to his installations, hoping to bring him out of his coma as well. Even Artemis was back on his old self, knowing that Minako was in good hands now. He was now with Luna touring the place and being briefed on all the actual events. Yohann was about to enjoy a quiet night before the departure the next day. Since her encounter with the Mizuno's, Alex was being a lot more friendly, and currently she was having a nice chat with Ami and her mother. Ooh, yes. This was going to be a great night! Yohann ended his bath, but when he entered his room, he noticed that it was in complete darkness. 'Odd,' he thought. 'I remember leaving the lights on. Oh, well...' dismissing the occurrence as one of Alex's pranks, he proceeded to lie down on his bed. (Did I mentioned that he liked to sleep only on his briefs? -the author). After a few minutes, he was deeply asleep. And since Alex was chatting with Ami and her mother, no one noticed a shadow entering stealthily on Yohann's room. Such shadow approached his bed, and after a moment's hesitation, lied down on his bed, placing its arms around him. Since Yohann was almost exhausted, and truly relaxed after his shower, he didn't notice a thing. Yohann was peacefully asleep when he was rudely awakened three hours later. 'Excuse me, pork chops... but can you explain me what are you doing!?!?!' transmitted an irate Alex. "hmmm... wha...?" began to say a dizzy Yohann, but when he tried to stand up, he noticed that something was lying over him. 'Uh? What's this?' though Yohann. 'That's what I want YOU to explain! What is she doing here??' 'She? Here? What are you talking about, Alex? Turn on the lights, please.' Half a second after the lights were on, Yohann wished this was a dream. Unfortunately for him, this was reality. Deeply asleep over him, was Makoto, dressing a very provocative black satin negligee. Yohann was completely paralyzed, his mind going into overdrive. 'Oh, God! What happened here? Did I did... anything with her? How did she get in here? Why can't I remember a thing? Why is she with me dressed like that??' 'Don't ask me, sweetie! Ask her!' transmitted Alex. Yohann gulped, feeling his throat dry and sandy, and with a shaking hand, he gently rocked Makoto. "M... Makoto? Wake up... Makoto?" Makoto stirred a little, and opened an eye. When she caught sight of Yohann, she only half smiled and said with a dreamy voice. "Please Yohann... I'm too tired, I want to sleep! You are an animal!" Yohann's scream was heard all over the base. Half an hour later, Dr Mizuno, Ami and Makoto were talking in the dinning room. Ami's mother just came out from Yohann's quarters, and was looking sternly at Makoto. "Tell me Makoto... why on heaven's name did you try a stunt like that? I had to give Yohann a tranquilizer. He was hysterical, blaming himself of being a rapist! And where did you get that outfit?" Makoto was looking at the floor, not daring to look at anyone. "Sorry. It was supposed to be a joke." "Well then, your joke backfired. You almost killed him with the impression!" said Ami. "But I only wanted to give him something nice to remember when he woke up in the morning! I only wanted to have him relaxed!" "Well, he's relaxed now, I can vouch for that!" said Alex, who had transmitted herself to Ami's compact after checking on Yohann's condition. "I had to apply direct hypnosis on him to make him forget the impression! Don't you realize that he's going to lead us tomorrow on a dangerous expedition? You almost jeopardize the whole mission!" "I told you I'm sorry! I didn't want to make any harm!" said Makoto, tears freely coming out of her face. Ami and her mother realized that Makoto was truly repented for what she had caused, and began to comfort her, trying to calm her. After a few minutes, they succeeded, and carried Makoto to her room. They all decided to keep the incident to themselves, not wanting to create unnecessary frictions among the rest of the girls. Alex also agreed to keep the incident secret, but for different reasons. * * * * Departure... Everybody was reunited in the hangar, already transformed and ready. Yohann didn't recall his odyssey of last night, and he was ready too for action. "All right, listen up everybody. This is the moment we've been training all this week. I want to remark that this is not going to be a picnic, and that if Alex or me say that you must not step or venture alone during this mission, we don't want hesitation on your part. I know you realize this could be dangerous, but I'm confident that we can make it. Now, I'm going to assign the positions to each one of you. "Mercury, since your capabilities are exceptional on that area, you are assigned to engineering." "Understood." Said Sailor Mercury. "Jendra, your abilities makes you unique for this position. You are assigned to communications." "Roger!" said Sailor Jendra. "Now, there's a tie on this position. Sailor Uranus, Sailor Saturn, both of you are excellent, and there was no competition other than between yourselves, so I reached to this conclusion. You are going to alternate being copilots during this adventure. Today, you are going to be the copilot, Sailor Uranus. Congratulations." "Thank you , Lieutenant. It is a great honor." Said Sailor Uranus, a big proud smile on her mouth. "Ok, listen up. Since we are more people than the original design took in account, Alex modified the Leviathan a little, placing extra seats on the cabin. Also, I have to warn you, we are taking a couple of extras with us on this mission." "Excuse me, Lieutenant... but what kind of extras are you talking about.?" Asked Sailor Mars. "We are taking with us two robotic aids, just in case something tries to jump on us. They are Heavy Weapons Platforms, or HWP's for short. These two units are like miniature tanks, with heavy platting armor and have incorporated one 20 Megawatts laser each." "Excuse me, Lieutenant... but are you sure we are going to need that kind of firepower? I mean, our powers are strong enough... are they?" asked Prince Endymion. "And I'm certain of that, Endymion... but I don't want to take any unnecessary risks, and I try to minimize them to the best of my capabilities. Ok, any question?" Nobody said a thing. "Ok, now, the most important detail before going out... If you have to go, do it now! We are not going to stop on the way!" And to Yohann's surprise, all the girls made a mad sprint towards the 'ladies room'. A few minutes later, everybody was back on the hangar, and after checking their equipment, all boarded the Leviathan. "All right, Alex, begin launch preparations" Said Yohann, completely focussed on checking the instruments. Mercury, Jendra and Uranus were doing the same on their respective stations, while the rest of the team was buckling themselves on their seats. "Preparations complete, sweetie. All systems ready." Answered Alex. "Ok, Alex. Open up the garage, and let's go!" "Your wish is my command, pork chops!" The umbilicals retracted themselves from the Leviathan, the connection ports closing immediately. Then, the whole platform under the ship began to rise, thanks to 4 immense hydraulic pylons. At the same time, the swimming pool began to move to one side, and the roof over it began to retract over itself, while the diving platform began to retract on itself too. Once the Leviathan was on ground level, the whole system stopped. "We are ready for take off, baby! All systems read green." Reported Alex. "Ok, then... activate the cloaking device both on stealth and invisible. We don't want to disturb the neighbors. And use the maglev thrusters for takeoff." "Roger. And here we go!" The Leviathan began to take off silently and smoothly, not a sound was heard. As soon as the ship cleared the building, it became invisible. Once out, the swimming pool complex began to rearrange itself, being again an ordinary pool. "Well," began to say Luna. "there they go. I wish them luck." "Same here, Luna. How do you stand the tension? I can hardly stand it, and it's only the beginning!" said Ikuko. "It's not easy, Mrs. Tsukino. But I'm confident on their abilities. After all, they have faced impossible odds in the past, and came victorious." "I only pray that it's the same here, Luna." Added Dr. Mizuno. TO BE CONTINUED...