Chapter 1

 

 I was awoken that fateful afternoon by a sharp pain in my stomach, as I jolted upright in bed I threw my guardian (whose claws were still partially imbedded in my stomach) off my bed.  Having got back especially late from a Scout meeting the previous night, I took the rare opportunity to sleep in on Saturday, before I had yet another fire reading that I needed to be at this afternoon at Rayes temple.

 Luna!! I screamed.

 Get up you are going to be late to the scout meeting at the temple. My guardian cat told me.

 So what else is new. I mumbled under my breath.

 I was still sleepy, but when I looked at the clock and saw how late it was I jumped out of bed and threw my clothes on.  I was running so late, I just grabbed my purse and two elastics and I rushed out the door.  This is how I began my trek to Rayes, running as fast as I could while trying to put my hair up into its customary meatballs.  I was so preoccupied by what I was doing that I didnt realize I was headed for someone until I crashed into them.

 Oomph.

 Come on Meatball Head, when are you going to grow up?  A deep voice asked me causing me to cringe as I recognized the speaker.  As I looked up from my uncomfortable perch on the ground, I saw none other then my  arch-nemesis, the incomparable Darien Im better than everyone because I own a cool car and drink coffee Chiba.

 As soon as you stop calling me Meatball Head, you jerk! I yelled while grabbing my purse and dumped my compact back into it.  Just as I was about to hurl another insult in Chibas direction I was distracted by a blood-curdling scream coming from the opposite direction.  [Why does this have to happen now?  Grrr.]  Got to book it. I said all the while changing direction and heading for the scream that I heard.  [Is this the new enemy Raye saw in her vision?]  As I ran I used the communicator to alert the other Sailor Scouts.

 I came to a clearing in the park, only to see four unconscious girls being drained of their energy by a man dressed in black pants and a violet vest, with his blonde hair pulled back in a ponytail.  I stepped behind a tree to transform.

 Moon Prism Power. I shouted followed by a rather elaborate display of lights and colors until I was dressed in a white skirt with a rainbow on the bottom and bow.  My pigtails now had three small transparent tassels on them and I was wearing a pair of red high-heeled boots.

 Stop in the name of the Moon. I shouted.

 And just who might you be? The blonde asked.

 I am Sailor Moon, champion of love and justice.  In the name of the Mood prepare to be moon dusted.  [God, I get tired of that speech.]

 Why hello, Serena.  It is so nice to finally meet the vaunted Sailor Moon, although I thought you would be taller  No matter. He commented. 

Do you think that pretty little speech scared me?  With a menacing cackle and the flip of a wrist a troll-like monster appeared next to him.  I was still getting over my shock at the fact that he knew my name when the monster attacked.  I just managed to get out of the way as the monster yelled Nega Vapor Bite!  A black beam came hurtling toward me and I couldnt escape the full force of the blast.  I was thrown a few feet from the blast, landing hard on my left arm, causing me to gasp out loud in pain.  I had to force myself to kneel as my vision momentarily blurred and I heard an eerie laugh near where I was sprawled.

 Who are you? I asked in confusion as this mysterious enemy stood over me.

 You mean you dont see the family resemblance?  Im Beryls brother. At that piece of information I gasped, causing him to glare at me.  I am Vortar, King of the Negaverse, and you my dear I will destroy for what you did to my sister, but not before you watch those you love suffer.

 I will not allow it. I said forcing myself all the way to my feet, holding my left arm protectively close to my body.

 You are quite an amusing girl.  Perhaps, I will keep you alive after all. Vortar retorted.  Get her up, Raspa.

 As his master ordered Raspa charged straight toward me, I couldnt help the scream that managed to escape my throat.  Raspa was stopped suddenly by a steel-tipped rose.

 You will not harm this pretty sailor soldier while I am around. Said a man wearing a top hat, tuxedo and cape, standing on the far side of me.

 Ah, the infamous Tuxedo Mask makes an appearance. Vortar sneered while Tuxedo Mask made his way to my side.

 Are you alright? He asked me in concern, glancing at my arm.

 Im fine. I lied, trying to convince him as well as myself.

 You wont be for long! Shouted the troll followed by Nega Viper Bite!  Before either of us could move out of the way, a black beam was headed straight for where Tuxedo and I stood.

 Mars Flame Sniper.

 Then I saw an arrow made of fire shoot out and hit the attack destroying it and creating a small explosion in the process.  Nice shot, Mars. I cried as I saw the other Scouts, my friends, make their entrance.

 Raspa, finish off the other Scouts And you Sailor Moon, Ill see again when we can have a little more privacy. Vortar said before he disappeared into a cloud of black smoke.

 As I turned back to the Scouts, Raspa was getting ready to attack:

 Nega

  Moon

 Viper

  Gorgeous

 Bite!

  Meditation!

 With that a beam shot out of his hands towards the others, as the moon beam hit Raspa, he was dusted along with his attack, leaving only a pile of moon dust in his place. 

 [Somethings wrong, using the wand never takes this much energy out of me.  I feel like Im being drained of energy.  Damn!]

 That was great, Sailor Moon! Venus cheered.

 So that was the latest enemy. Mercury commented.  Seemed formidable.

 Good work, Scouts.  Ill see you again. Tuxedo Mask interjected and with one last glance he was gone.

 

 

Chapter 2

 

I forced myself to stand on shaky legs as I told them most of what Vortar said, except for the fact that he knew my name.  [I could just hear Raye now: What are you stupid, how could you transform in front of the enemy?  You dont deserve to be leader.  I dont want them to think me any more incompetent then they already do.  Its amazing how little respect I get considering I am their leader.  They have absolutely no faith in my abilities, and if I were to tell them, they would automatically assume it was somehow my fault.] 

 Hey, Ive got to go do my math homework, you guys.  Ill see you. I told them as I ran off with Luna right behind me.

 Youre actually being responsible, Serena.  Are you feeling alright? Luna asked as I slowed down to a walk.

 Im okay, Luna.  [I really should tell the others, but its not as if they can do anything anyway.]  I need to go to the park. I exclaimed, suddenly changing my direction.

 But what about your math homework? Luna yelled after me.

 What homework? I asked without even turning around.

 The park always manages to calm me, even when I was having a particularly horrible day.  I come here often when I need to forget about the constant battles that seem to have taken over my life.  It is always quiet, and it helps me to put things back in perspective.  It has been a few weeks since I have found the time to come here and simply sit on this bench and look over at the lake.  I find that I missed it more than I realized.

 Luna, I need to tell you something.  I dont want the scouts to know though. I told her.

 Serena, you can tell me anything, but the scouts are your friends, and Im sure that whatever it is you can tell them too.

 Just promise me.

 Very well. Luna agreed, but seemed none too happy about it.

 Well, I didnt exactly tell the scouts everything that Vortar said to me.

 What else did he say? Luna asked in a disapproving tone of voice.

 He knew my name. I told her in a very small voice.

 Well thats not too bad, I assume hes heard of Sailor Moon before from Beryl.  Perhaps he will be a little more cautious.

 No you dont understand.  He really knew my name He called me Serena. I explained.

 You should have mentioned this to the other Sailor Scouts!  If he knows your true name, then its only a matter of time until he finds out where you live.  He could attack you were youre most helpless. Luna practically screamed,  Well contact the scouts now and set up a schedule for them guarding you.

 No!  This is exactly why I didnt tell them.  I dont need them to baby-sit me, Ill be fine. I exclaimed after I calmed a bit I added in an uncharacteristically timid voice, They have no faith in me as it is.

 I know you and Raye in particular fight a lot, but they will support you.  You are their Princess after all. Luna remarked, trying to be reassuring but failing miserably.
 
 Thats just it.  They protect me as the Princess of the Moon, but dont respect me as Serena.  I dont want them involved. I reiterated sternly.

 Have you though about the possibility of him going after your family in an attempt to get to you? Luna asked gently.

 Of course, but I should be able to protect them, at least until the Scouts could be alerted.  If the situation becomes dire, then I will tell them, but until that time theres no cause for them to worry needlessly.

 Having a conversation with your cat, meatball head?  I hear thats the first sign of mental instability.

 Recognizing the cocky voice, I looked to my right only to see Darien strolling arrogantly in my direction.  For once I was in no mood for an argument, so I just ignored him, and continued my internal dialogue while looking at the rapidly darkening landscape.  I was there for surprised when Darien merely raised a questioning eyebrow and sat next to me on the bench when it became obvious I had no intention of responding to the jibe.  Curious about his intentions I turned my head to look at him, only to see him sprawled next to me seemingly immersed in the setting sun in front of him.  When the unexpected silence continued I turned back to the lake deep in thought.  [I managed to defeat Beryl, but this Vortar seems much stronger even at our first meeting, especially with my power on the fritz.  Maybe the scouts are right to question my leadership, Im not exactly the best fighter.  I should probably tell Luna about the power drain, but shell just make me tell the scouts right away.  I hate being the weakest, what if I cant fight Vortar?  Why is the weight of the world always on my shoulders?  I only want to be a normal girl, no super powers, not the princess.] 

 My depressing thoughts were disturbed by a gentle hand on my shoulder.  As I turned my head, my damp eyes found Darien still sitting next to me staring at me with a concerned look on his face.

 Are you alright Serena? He asked me.  My heart did a little flip in my chest, after hearing him say my name for the first time.  Looking into his worried blue eyes, I couldnt help the slight quirk of my lips as I realized he was worried about me.  For some reason I didnt care to explore, his concern filled me with warmth.

 Of course, what could possibly be wrong? I asked him.  [God, hes so handsome without that annoying smirk on his face.]  I started blushing when I realized just what kind of thoughts were going through my head.  [Darien.  Eww!!]

 You tell me. Darien said waiting for a proper answer.

 Its nothing Just something stupid. I mumbled looking away, hoping he would drop the subject.

 What did you do, trip in front of Andrew or something? Darien asked

 Something like that I said, while gathering my bag and cat.  Well, Ive got to get home.  I would say it was nice talking to you, but Id be lying.

 I strode away from Darien walking purposefully out of the park without a backward glance back in his direction.  By that time it was almost dark out, but I didnt even notice the passage of time.  [Is that how everyone sees me?  Just a klutz, whos biggest problem is some boy.  I wish to god that was my life.]  As my thoughts continued, tears ran unchecked down my cheeks without my noticing.

 Serena, why are you crying? Luna asked, peeking her head out of my bag.  You really shouldnt let anything Darien says get to you.

 Its not just him Its everyone.  Sometimes I wonder if anyone really knows me at all.  I mean all they see is the klutzy, ditzy, wimp who cries all the time.  Anybody that knows me as Sailor Moon thinks Im a failure as a Scout too.

 I was so preoccupied by my misery that I didnt see the concerned look that Luna leveled in my direction.  I guess I surprised her because she was temporarily speechless.

 And maybe theyre right I am a failure! I wailed as I flew into the house, ignoring my parents sitting in the living room, and heading straight for my bedroom.  I through myself on my bed, sobbing helplessly by that time, as Luna sat perched near my head purring and rubbing against me reassuringly.  I, Sailor Moon, continued weeping like a baby until exhaustion finally overtook me and I fell into a troubled slumber.

 

Chapter 3  

 

The next morning I thought I would feel a lot better, but unfortunately I didnt.  As I lay awake staring at my ceiling going through the events of yesterday a new thought struck me.  I had already realized that it would be easier for Vortar to attack me if he knew my identity, but it didnt even cross my mind to be concerned for my family because they didnt know I am Sailor Moon.  [It doesnt matter if they know who I am, Vortar can still go after them to get to me.] 

 At this point I had rushed out of my bed, realizing I still was wearing the clothes I had on from yesterday, I quickly changed and hurried downstairs.  As I made my way into the kitchen I overheard my parents discussing my strange behavior recently, as well as my disappearance yesterday.

 Do you think shes on drugs? This coming from my Dad.

 Of course not honey. My mom soothed.  Its probably just some problem with her friends.

 What if shes on acid, that fools with your mind  My father commented worriedly.

 Im not on drugs, Dad. I reassured him as I made my way into the kitchen.

 Where were you yesterday, honey?  Your father and I were worried about you. My mother asked me.

 Well I couldnt very well tell them that I was having an mental breakdown because the stress of being Sailor Moon was getting to me, now could I?  I dont think so.

 Um

 Your friends were worried about you too when we called them.

 [There goes that idea.  Thanks guys.]

 If you werent with your friends then where were you young lady? My dad asked, his face getting red.

 I was with Darien. I blurted out unthinkingly, muttering the first name that struck my mind.  [Funny that.]

 What?  You were with a boy?  Where did he touch you? My dad yelled, getting up off the sofa to get what I can only assume was his shot gun.  Mom stopped him thankfully.

 Dad. I whined looking particularly disgusted.  As if!  Eww!  He was just, uh, really sick and I went over to his house to take care of him.  I said all the while wondering just what the hell I was doing.

 Isnt Darien that boy you hate? My mom asked, looking especially confused.

 He is.  Hes a jerk! I exclaimed forcefully, then remember myself quickly.  But he was sick as a dog and I couldnt just leave him, could I?

 I guess my best puppy-dog face still works because my father calmed down slightly and my mom relaxed her death-grip on his arm.

 Okay, but I want to meet this boy to make sure he didnt take advantage of your kindness. My dad told me.

 Sure I mean, WHAT? I screamed.

 You heard me young lady! My father answered in a stern voice.

 Why dont you invite him to dinner tonight, dear? My mother suggested, and then she winked at me.  WINKED!  [My god my family is insane!]

 What if he doesnt want to come? I asked in a small voice, not at all sure of my powers of persuasion.

 He better come, for your sake, Serena. My father said, after which I made a quick exit out the front door.  At first I was walking so reluctantly people probably thought I was going off to my execution.  [Not far off, truth be told.]  But then I remembered the possible danger to my family because of Vortar and I quickened my pace rapidly. 

 As I entered the Arcade, I saw Darien talking to his best friend, and my former crush, Andrew.  I took two cautious steps toward them, not really wanting to interrupt them for once, when Darien just happened to look over in my direction.

 Meatball Head, what brings you here at, Darien looked at his watch disbelievingly.  Eight-thirty in the morning?

 [Oh god.  How am I ever going to get him to agree to this?]

 

Chapter 4

 

Earth to Meatball Head. Darien said smirking, while waving a hand in front of my face to get my attention.

 Huh?  [Brilliant response, Serena!]

 You really spaced out there for a second, Serena. Is everything okay? The ever supportive Andrew asked, while patting my head like a well-trained puppy.  [Grrr.]

 Ah yeahum Darien could I talk to you for a minute? I stumbled out while grabbing his arm firmly and dragging Darien away from Andrew, not even waiting for an answer.

 I pushed him into the closest booth and followed him down, effectively blocking off his route of escape by sitting so close he couldnt escape.  I belatedly realized that I was practically sitting in his lap, but by that point I didnt want to move incase I lost my nerve.

 Whats so important, Meatball Head, that you needed to drag me over here.? Darien asked curiously.

 Shut up Satan, and dont call me that! I wailed, but stopped abruptly when I heard him chuckle.  What is so funny?

 You are, Meatball Head. Darien told me.

 Arg, Satan I mean Darien, I really need to talk to you. I practically  growled at him while trying to ignore the heat coming from his body seeping into my side.  I dont want to get into another fight with you.

 Then talk.  Im not stopping you. Darien commented sitting back and waiting for me to start speaking.

 Um I didnt know what to say or where to begin.  I

 I was just about to answer him when Darien put an arm around my shoulders and hauled me up close to him.  At this point I was having trouble breathing and my heart was pounding in my chest.  My hands were trapped between our bodies and it took all my willpower not to place them around his neck and hold him to me.  He was bringing his head closer to mine and for a second I thought he was going to kiss me and I help my breath in anticipation.  I felt his soft breath on my neck and ear causing a shiver to wrack my body, while his other hand caressed my lower back.

 You didnt need a silly excuse to be close to me, Meatball Head.  All you had to do was ask. He whispered in my ear closely followed by  his usual arrogant chuckle.

 I pushed him away with all my might jumping up from the booth as if scolded.  As if! I screeched not caring that I was screaming at the top of my lungs and causing a scene.  I was so furious as Darien continued to smirk in my face as he stood up, now towering over my five foot frame.  This only served to fuel my temper.  [How can I possibly like the idiot?  Hes an absolute jerk.  ARRGG! I Hate Darien Chiba!]  I took two steps away from him, glaring at his arrogant face, which was seemingly saying You know you want me!  This pushed me over the edge and I started yelling at him.

 Just who do you think you are, Chiba?  You arrogant, self-centered, egotistical jerk.  Are you that used to women just throwing themselves at you?  Well, buddy, I am NOT one of them! I screeched while poking a finger into his chest for emphasis.  I dont care who you think you are, if you ever treat me that way again, I will personally kick your ass back to the Moon Kingdom!  [Whoa, girl!  Where did all that anger come from?  Damn!  He just makes me so mad.  I will not cry, I wont give that jerk the satisfaction] 

 Despite my best efforts I feel my eyes getting damp and I try to turn away, but am caught off guard as Darien grabs my upper arm and drags me after him.  Before I know it I am sequestered in the storage room of the arcade with Darien Chiba, my worst enemy, and although I would never admit it, my secret crush.

 

Chapter 5  TBC