Here's the next second part of "Tales of Younger Venus"

Previous parts can be found at the web-site below under the
"New/Incomplete" Archive section or by e-mail request.
-------------------------------------------
Tales of Younger Venus
By Douglas Helm and "Tuxedo" Will Wolfshohl

Disclaimer: Sailor Moon, Sailor Senshi, and all terms, names, etc.
associated with the series are copyrighted by Naoko Takeuchi and
Kodansha. We make no claim to them and this work of fanfiction should
not be seen as making a claim.

Those characters that are original and the story "Tales of Younger
Venus" are copyrighted (c) 1997 by Douglas Helm & Will Wolfshohl.

This fanfic and over 320 other SM fanfics reside in "Tuxedo" Will's SM
Fanfics Archive at http://log.on.ca/users/helm/anime/index.htm

Send comments to: Douglas "Candle Light Author" Helm (dhelm@log.on.ca)
or "Tuxedo" Will Wolfshohl (wwolfshohl@logicon.com)


Chapter 3 - Sailor Moon Returns

Princess Misako sniffled slightly and hugged the teddy bear. She had
skinned her knee and now it was being attended to by Sailor Mercury, the
Royal Physician. Misako looked up and saw, her sister, Usagi, looking at
her with a stern expression on her face.

"Miko-chan, I told you not to run; it was muddy," Usagi lectured. It was
almost six months since her return from the past. <Why do little kids
never listen?> Usagi questioned, <I mean I certainly was stubborn when
it came to doing stuff I WANTED to do... but I ALWAYS listened when I
was her age.>

"Gomen, Onee-chan," Misako replied softly, "I not scared, you there."

Usagi smiled at this, <`Onee-chan'! That makes me think of Usagi. Is
this how she felt when I called her `Onee-san'?> Usagi gave Misako a
partial hug while saying, "Arigato Miko-chan, you need to be more
careful though."

"Princess Misako, I think you're all fixed up now. It's a good thing you
were wearing some of those old clothes," Mercury began. She was about to
say more when there was a knock at the door. Walking over to answer it
she poked her head out and listened. After a few moments Mercury
returned and said, "Princess Usagi, why don't you take your sister and
get her cleaned up? Your parents want to talk with you."

"About what, Ami-chan?" Usagi asked slightly nervous.

"That's not my business." <I wouldn't take it away from Serenity. She's
been driving me and the other Elder Senshi crazy for weeks. Usagi will
be so happy.> Mercury smiled and then hustled the two children along
with Younger Venus out of the room.

"Your Highness, I'll take Princess Misako if you want to go see your
parents now," Younger Venus offered.

Usagi simply nodded, let go of Misako's hand, and started off down the
hall. Her stomach had started to do acrobatics; what could they want to
talk to HER about? <School? Iie... I'm actually starting to like school
AGAIN.> That thought brought the reflection of the past to mind, <Once
Onee-san and I got over the hurdles, I found myself enjoying school...
and I HELPED Onee-san!> That brought a warm feeling to her. It didn't
last long, <Okay... think, think, think! The Frisbee? Nah... I hope.>

And so it went all the way to where her parents would be. She soon was
in the corridor that led to the great Throne Room. <Why would Mommy and
Daddy want me to come here for? What did I do?> By the time she got
there her stomach had worked itself into a giant knot. Her worry only
abated slightly when she saw Younger Jupiter waiting outside the Throne
Room's entrance.

"What's it about, Sako-chan?" Usagi asked softly. Younger Jupiter gave a
shrug which only caused Usagi's stomach to tighten more, if it were
possible. She was about to protest that Younger Jupiter must know
something when they were both announced.

"Her Highness Princess Usagi and Younger Jupiter!"

Usagi went in first trailed by half a step by Younger Jupiter.  Sitting
on their thrones were her parents. She nearly faltered when she saw
another individual in attendance... Pluto! <What's Puu doing here?>
Usagi's mouth went dry, <Did Puu tell Mommy about the changed timeline?
Puu wouldn't tell them. Maybe...> Although Usagi doubted it there were
very few reasons for Sailor Pluto to be there. She curtsied but kept up
her wondering; she wanted to guess what would happen.

Neo-Queen Serenity smiled before saying, "Princess Usagi, you have shown
yourself to be very mature." Usagi remained silent and only looked up at
her mother, "Long ago a Senshi disappeared... It is time to bring that
Senshi back into existence."

Usagi started to sweat slightly, <A Senshi disappeared? The only one
that I know who disappeared was...> Then her heart stopped, <It couldn't
be!> her mind screamed.

"I see by your expression you have guessed. Sailor Moon was the
`Guardian' of the Ginzuishou. You will now be taking that place, as the
new Sailor Moon."

Her heart had started again but her breath had turned ragged. A lump had
formed in her throat. To be able to take on the mantle that had saved
her in the past; the mantle that had made her bedtime stories seem so
real! To be able to fill that position was unbelievable.

"Your training will be in the past," King Endymion added with a glint of
mischief in his eyes.

Usagi's eyes widened, <The past?!? Onee-san's in the past!> She nearly
started to bawl. To be given the post of Sailor Moon was by far the most
wonderful thing she had ever been able to conceive of. She thought her
trip to the past had been a fluke that would never be repeated. She had
resigned herself never to again see her onee-san. "I'm going to the
past?" Usagi croaked out shakily when she saw her parents waiting for
her response.

"Hai," Pluto said simply.

Usagi studied that response but couldn't read anything from it. "Wh-what
about Sa... Ah Younger Jupiter?" Her brain was having a hard time being
coherent, the wash of emotion was causing her to focus on trying to keep
from bouncing up and down with excitement.

"SHE will remain here," Pluto replied, "Princess Usagi, only you will be
going to the past."

Usagi's face fell slightly, "Your Majesty, why can Younger Jupiter not
go? She's after all MY guardian."

Serenity's eyes twinkled, "Younger Jupiter has other duties to attend
to."

Usagi was now feeling slightly guilty but the happiness was too strong
so the emotion didn't last long.  <I have to pack and tell Mercury and
Misako... Misako,> Usagi gave an unconscious sniffle, <I'm just getting
to know my imouto and now I'm going away again. It's not fair.>

"You are dismissed," Serenity said, "You'll be leaving in one week."
<How happy I am for you, my daughter. If protocol would of permitted it,
I would of run and hugged you.> Usagi curtsied and Younger Jupiter bowed
then left the Throne Room. Neither of them saw the tears in Serenity's
eyes. As soon as the doors were closed Usagi took off at breakneck
speed. She had to find a place to think... someplace only a few would
know about.

                                  ******

It seemed like an eternity to Usagi but she finally made it to her oasis
of peace and quiet. It was a small room high in one of the spires of the
Crystal Palace. Its purpose was mainly for storage; she had made a cozy
nook up here with a large beanbag chair in the shape of a rabbit.  She
had to get Sakuya to help her get it up there.

Now, however, she ignored the seat and paced back and forth. It wasn't
fair! She had come back from the past to find a new sister, a new life
that did have its disadvantages but Misako more than made up for them.

<What am I going to tell Misako? As far as she knew I was gone a long
time... Me going back to the past will hurt her.> Usagi dejectedly
scuffed at a tile on the floor, <How am I going to tell her?>

"Small Lady?" Sakuya voice came from behind. Usagi whirled around and
looked at Sakuya, "Do you want me to talk to Misako? Or get Kimeko to do
it?"

"IIE!" Usagi bellowed out. The force of the denial made Usagi come up
short and stared slightly, "Gomen... I-I want to tell her; she had to
wait for me to come back and that was a long time. Maybe I can let her
know in a easier way so she knows I'll be coming back." A small voice
popped into Usagi head and whispered, <But what if you come back and
Misako's gone? She wasn't here when you left the first time!>

"Alright, Your Highness, if you want to talk, you know where I'll be,"
Sakuya agreed and then slipped out of the room.

Usagi walked over to the small window that was in the room and looked
out. From here she could see Crystal Tokyo. Her city, her home. It
spread out like a mosaic, a multitude of colors that would slowly change
over time as buildings went up and came down.

<Maybe... Maybe I can get Mommy to let Misako to come with me.> Usagi
considered this plan and then sighed heavily, <Iie! If Puu won't let
Sakuya into the past, I don't think she'd let Misako... But what's the
harm in asking?> Usagi thought as she continued to stare out the window,
<Don't worry, Misako... I'll come back. I'll really miss you. Now I know
what Onee-san felt like before I left.>

                                  ******

Usagi opted for the direct approach. She walked into Misako's room the
following afternoon. The little girl was coloring something, her tongue
sticking from one corner of her mouth in concentration.  Usagi waited
quietly for Misako to finish her work before speaking.

"Miko-chan?"

"Onee-chan!" Misako cried happily, "Mommy told me, look! Pretty!" With
that she shoved her artwork at Usagi and waited expectantly. Usagi
glanced at the drawing for several seconds. It was certainly a Senshi.
Usagi had learned what Misako's Senshi looked like, but she couldn't
place exactly who it was supposed to be.

"It's a Senshi," Usagi finally declared, hoping Misako would provide the
necessary details.

Misako's face fell. She took on a hurt expression as she took the
picture from Usagi's hand and crumpled it up. Tossing it aside she
slowly went back to work. Usagi was surprised by the reaction. <What did
I say?> she thought as she walked over and picked up the crumpled paper.
Carefully smoothing the paper Usagi again looked at it. <Hmm... She's
seems small. It can't be any of the Elder Senshi... Not Sakuya or
Kimeko... Maybe... Wait a second...>

When she finally figured it out Usagi felt bad. <It's ME!> Usagi sighed
mentally, <How did I miss it? Okay, I have to cheer her up.> Walking
over to where Misako was Usagi said, "Imouto, that was a very nice
picture of me."

"Really, Onee-chan?" Misako questioned, she raised her eyes to meet
Usagi's.

"Hai! Very pretty."

Misako took on a cautious look and pointed to her latest drawing,
although partially done Misako demanded, "Who's that?"

Usagi looked at the drawing; it was easier then the first, "That's me as
a Senshi and Younger Jupiter." Misako beamed happily and gave Usagi a
hug.  She returned it, it was warm and comforting. Usagi then remembered
what she was doing in Misako's room, "Miko-chan... did Mommy tell you
where I was going?"

"Going?" Misako asked. <Mommy only said Onee was S'nshi...>

"Hai... I'm going back into the past," Usagi said, "I don't know how
long I'll be away."

"Away... Gone?" Misako asked, her eyes had drooped, <Onee go away?>

"I'm going to the past. I'll be gone away for some time," Usagi
explained. <I hope she isn't going to cry. I feel bad enough having to
leave her.> Misako's features had started to bunch as if she was about
to cry but then she only sniffled.

Reaching out Misako gave Usagi a huge hug and said pleadingly, "Iie! I
miss you! Not go! Not go! Please 'Sagi!" This was followed by another
sniffle.

Usagi answered with a sniffle of her own. She could feel a lump in her
throat forming. It wasn't long before Usagi felt the first trickle of
tears, "I have to, Miko-chan... That's where I need to train to be a
Senshi. Gomen nasai."

"Iie! I miss you, not go!" Misako sniffled out, "Me go with you if you
go."

<I can't get her hopes up.> Usagi reached up and slowly disengaged her
sister from the hug. The little girl's face looked sad, "Gomen Imouto,
Mommy probably won't let you come. Even Sako-chan isn't going with me."

"I go!" Misako howled defiantly, "I want see you be S'nshi! You not
leave me!"

"Iie, Miko-chan. You'll have to stay here," Usagi said. It killed her
having to say that but why get her hopes up? She had first thought of
asking Neo-Queen Serenity to let Misako go but Pluto would not have
allowed it. Usagi's Onee-san would only know about Usagi, not about
Misako.

"You mean! Get out!!!" Misako howled pushing Usagi away and running over
to her bed. She crawled up on it and hid her head under a pillow.

"Misako?" Usagi said softly.

"Onee no love me! Go away!!!" came the muffled shout.

Usagi walked over and reached out to touch Misako's arm but the little
girl jerked away from the touch. Usagi sniffled once before leaving the
room; she knew that Misako would get over it but it would be a while
before her sister thought Usagi was, "Okay," again. Usagi only hoped it
would be before she left for the past.

                                  ******

And so the day arrived; it was fortunate that the party seeing Princess
Usagi off to the past consisted of only the Royal Family, Elder Venus
and Elder Jupiter with their younger counterparts and finally Sailor
Pluto. It was fortunate because Princess Misako was keeping up a low
whining but continuous wail, interspersed with pleading protests to let
her go with Usagi back into the past. She alternated between clinging
desperately onto Usagi and her mother.

Serenity was trying hard to not lose her patience. She could understand
what Misako wanted but it simply couldn't be. <I'm scared for you,
Usagi, but I have faith in you...> "It's time to go," Serenity finally
announced. <Your onee-san will be waiting.>

"Good-bye, Elder Jupiter," Usagi said formally, "Younger Jupiter." She
caught the wink that Younger Jupiter sent her. <Now what's she up to?>
Giving a mental shrug Usagi turned to Younger Venus and said, "Maybe
when we get back you'll have that magic trick worked out."

"I hope so, Your Highness," Younger Venus said over-dramatically, "It
isn't like I've been working on it for the past YEAR or anything."

Usagi giggled, she finally turned to Venus with a sly smile. <I'm in
quite a position... Hmmm... now how to handle this?> What was she to do?
On the one hand, Elder Venus was lower in station than her, technically
speaking as Princess Usagi. However, on the other hand, as the new
Sailor Moon she was last on the pecking order.

Venus seemed to grasp her dilemma and said, "Have a safe trip,
Princess."

"Arigato." <Commander,> Usagi responded with a slightly shy smile.
Finally she turned to her parents.  She walked over to her father and
when he bent down she hugged him whispering, "I'll miss you, Daddy."

"I'll miss you too, Small Lady. I'm so proud of you," King Endymion
responded.

Usagi then turned to Neo-Queen Serenity who had finally picked Misako up
and was attempting to comfort the child who was now quiet but hiding her
face in her mother's shoulder.

"Miko-chan," Serenity said softly, "Do you want to say good-bye to your
sister?" Misako shook her head. Kneeling down Serenity pulled Usagi into
a hug who tried to hug both her mother and Misako as best she could.

"I'll be back, Miko-chan," Usagi said, "We can play then. I promise."
<I can't leave with her hating me.>

"Really, Onee-chan?" Misako asked softly, finally looking up.

"Hai!" Usagi answered, then it was time. Taking out the Time Key she
stepped past Pluto, turned once and said, "Good-bye, Puu."

"Good-bye, Small Lady."

Turning back again, she activated the Time Key and disappeared into the
timestream. Misako sniffled slightly. Her parents started off down the
hall talking quietly to her. The two Elder Senshi looked at each other
for a moment and then also went down the hall leaving Younger Jupiter
and Pluto by themselves.

The silence seemed to stretch on endlessly... A minute passed, then two.
Younger Jupiter glared at Pluto once and said, "If she's harmed,
Pluto..."

"Is that all you can do?" Pluto asked, "What had to be done had to be
done. It's in the past. Are you going to continue to keep this senseless
grudge going through all time?"

"You killed my mother," Younger Jupiter hissed out.

"Iie, she died of a heart condition," Pluto answered, "I have done many
things but I've never killed your mother."

"You don't fool me, Pluto, not in the least." Younger Jupiter started
off down the hallway before saying, "Consider, Pluto... What will Small
Lady do when she finds out what her precious `Puu' has done?"

Pluto visibly tightened her grip on the Time Staff. Small Lady couldn't
find out; she cared about the little girl too much to hurt her that way.
<Is she right? Could there have been another way?> The tug of doubt
didn't last long but it did bother Pluto that she could have even
thought that. <It had to be done!> she reinforced before vanishing back
into the timestream.

                                  ******

Sakuya was sitting in her office happily looking over some stock
profiles; this was her true interest. Sure being a Senshi was certainly
of the greatest honor and priority but business was Sakuya's passion.
Ever since Princess Usagi had left for the past a month ago Sakuya had
found time she hadn't had for years to put into her passion

The thought of her charge made Sakuya remember something. Putting down
the profile she turned to her computer and asked, "RH, have you
completed your research?"

"Hai, honey-bunch," RH replied. Of all the annoyances to come into
Sakuya's life, RH was a constant one; his singular pursuit of hentai
material was only controllable by Sakuya threatening to use him as a
test subject for magnetic research. "Summaries of all pertinent data
indicate a deviation by a margin of seven-point-four percent."

<That's rather low...> "Have you checked the figure?"

RH took on a hurt tone, "Of course, Ma'am... variance in the results is
only zero-point-zero-zero-four percent."

<Hmmm...> Sakuya was about to say something else when a knock at her
door cut her off. <Damn, can't have the others wondering why I'm doing
historical analysis.> Assigning RH some routine tasks and releasing the
seal so he could lose himself in his own passion Sakuya said, "Come in."

Kimeko came into the office looking one part annoyed, one part
frustrated, and one part bedraggled. She unceremoniously flopped into
one of the more comfortable chairs in the office and looked at Sakuya
and sighed.

"Sako-chan, how did you ever do it?" Kimeko moaned out, "I don't
understand it."

"Ah Kimeko-chan could you please clarify what you're talking about?"
Sakuya asked, moving to sit by the younger girl. "You look like you've
just gone through a grueling workout." <And I can guess who did it.>

Kimeko straightened her posture a little then rubbed a hand across her
face with another sigh. "Sako-chan, Misako has become a..." Kimeko
trailed off flushing slightly. She straightened more in the chair and
took on an air of professionalism. It wouldn't do to discuss matters of
a Senshi nature like she had been about to do. Sakuya expected a certain
level of professionalism.

"You were about to say that Princess Misako has become a real terror,
ne?" Kimeko's jaw swung open at the surprise. She hadn't expected that
from Sakuya. "Oh come on... Pull up your jaw, Kimeko-chan," Sakuya
stated testily, "Don't be so shocked. I know exactly what you're going
through." <A certain pink haired princess was far worse. Well actually
it's strawberry-blonde but pink's easier to say,> Sakuya thought.

Kimeko visibly relaxed, "I'd talk to Mom about this but I feel better
talking to you... So what do I do?"

"Why don't you tell me what prompted this particular incident? And
speaking of Misako, where is she?"

"Her Majesty is trying her best to get Misako to realize that she won't
be going into the past," Kimeko said. <I can understand Misako wanting
to go with Usagi but if she doesn't realize it soon that she can't, I'll
go insane!> "I don't really know what sparked it off. Maybe looking at
one of those picture books she's so fascinated with. Misako has been
moping about since Usagi left.  Anyway she erupted into a temper tantrum
over not being able to go into the past to visit her `onee-chan'."

"Well tantrums I've had my share of dealing with," Sakuya started, "The
`great pudding incident' being the single most unique one I've seen from
Usagi."

Kimeko remembered her mother telling her of the incident a few weeks
after she had become Misako's guardian. <It's been Palace gossip ever
since,> she thought, <I remember what you went through later with her.>
"Hai, the `great pudding incident'... As I remember the three year old
Usagi was jealous of her new baby sister; she was too young to
understand that her mother needed to spend a large amount of time with
Misako."

Sakuya was frowning internally, <Hmmm... This is different than what I
remember, or at least the reason behind it is.> "Kimeko-chan, tell me
what your mom told you? I'm curious."

Kimeko smiled, "Well Usagi decided to get revenge, an act of defiance
really. Apparently Usagi had said that she `Not want that THING for a
sister and could Mommy get rid of it.'" Kimeko shook her head so she
didn't see the brief scowl that flitted across Sakuya's face, "Serenity
didn't like that and when Usagi wouldn't apologize she said, `Alright
then, Small Lady, you won't be getting any treats... including pudding.'
And you know how much Usagi loves pudding." She giggled.

"You imitate Neo-Queen Serenity pretty good," Sakuya observed with a
chuckle. "So what did your mom tell you Usagi did?"

"Oh I do a fair imitation of a few people," Kimeko said, her smile
widened as Sakuya caught the hint and frowned, "Anyway our darling
Princess Usagi deemed that she WOULD HAVE PUDDING!" Kimeko's voice
squeaked out slightly and she grimaced, "So she used Luna-P and filled
the pool and every tub in the Palace with chocolate pudding. Elder
Mercury didn't know it and when she dived into the pool for her morning
swim..." <I would of loved to have seen her face. Ami is nice but
still...>

<Let's see, the reason for Usagi doing that is different; she also
filled the tubs...> Sakuya chuckled, "So I take it you've noticed a vast
difference in Usagi's behavior since we came back from the past?"

"Hai, very much so. When Neo-Queen Serenity found out what Usagi had
done I take it she was rather... livid?"

Sakuya snorted, <Livid??? Serenity was furious with Usagi and me!> "Hai,
Serenity didn't live up to her name you might say."

"Mom said that it was only one of the few times she ever saw Serenity
spank Usagi." Kimeko was silent for several seconds before she snapped
out of her revelry, "So, Sako-chan, how do you handle them?" Kimeko
asked. "I mean I'm in a bit of bind... On the one hand I want Misako to
like me but, on the other hand, I can't let her have her own way all the
time and her parents may not be around to stop her."

"You need to talk to Neo-Queen Serenity and King Endymion about that.
Try and distract her, or ignore it; Misako will stop. You're in the same
place I was in when Usagi was younger. Talk to Misako's parents... It
won't hurt anything."

Sakuya could tell by Kimeko's look that she thought this plan was
dubious at best.  But eventually after some thought Kimeko nodded.

                                  ******

"Miko-chan," Serenity said, "You can't go into the past. You aren't old
enough."

Misako pouted, her bottom lip sticking out; she had her arms crossed and
she was glaring at her mother who was sitting opposite her in a chair.
<No care! I wanna go to the past!> "I'm old enough!" Misako said
defiantly, "Onee-chan went to past. I go too! I want see Onee be
S'nshi!"

"Iie, Miko-chan you are a princess and sometimes princesses can't do
what they want to do..." <Queens too for that matter.> "And this is one
of them." <I wish I could go visit her too but this time is for my past
self.> Serenity tried again, "Now I want you to apologize to Younger
Venus."

Misako's pout disappeared to be replaced by sad puppy dog eyes. "Please
Mommy? I miss Onee-chan."  She hopped off her bed and went to hug her
mother, "I be good..." Misako promised, "I want to go!"

Serenity was about to repeat her argument again when there was a knock
at the door. She said, "Enter." Younger Venus stuck her head around the
door, "Come in, Younger Venus. Princess Misako has something to say to
you."

Younger Venus stepped inside and bowed; Sakuya had been a big help, even
if the older woman hadn't given her direct answers, the reassurance that
Sakuya understood what Kimeko was going through helped relieve some of
the fear that Neo-Queen Serenity might remove her from the coveted
position. She could think of few things worse than that.

Silently Serenity pushed her daughter towards Younger Venus and waited.
Misako glanced at her mother once before turning to look at Younger
Venus and said, "Gomen, I not mean to yell at you, Kim'ko."

"That's alright, Princess Misako... I understand how you miss your
onee-chan. I miss her too," Kimeko said with a smile, "Would you like to
go for a walk?"

Misako's eyes brightened as she recognized that she was forgiven, "Hai,
arigato." Then turning to her mother she said, "Mommy, can I go please?"

"Hai go on, but don't get dirty," Serenity cautioned. Happily Misako
skipped over to Younger Venus and taking her hand led the youngest of
the Senshi out of the room.



Chapter 4 - Bonds are Formed

"Come in," King Endymion said. He and Neo-Queen Serenity were sitting in
some chairs in their private living quarters watching a cozy fire and
catching up on some reading.

Kimeko came in looking like a guilty child being called before her
parents. <Well in a way they are,> Kimeko thought, <How can I say what I
need to? When Sakuya suggested this it seemed so easy!> "Your
Majesties?"

"Come in, Kimeko-chan. Please none of that `majesty' stuff here,"
Serenity said happy to be away from the formalities, "Please have a
seat."

Kimeko tentatively walked over and sat in the chair indicated. The room
itself was trimmed with a variety of pictures; some very old, others
relatively new. One wall held a bookcase crammed with different books on
different topics. On an adjacent wall there was an entertainment center.

"Now Kimeko-chan, how was your day?" Serenity asked.

"Well Serenity-sama..." the young girl hesitated. How could she say
exactly what she wanted to? <I wish Sakuya was here... or Mom.>

"You're thinking about Misako, aren't you?" Endymion asked. He saw the
surprised expression spread across Kimeko's face, "Oh hai... We went
through this with Sakuya although she was more direct in the matter as
she usually is."

"No need to flush, Kimeko, you and Sakuya are a good match for each
other," Serenity reassured, "You have the tact and desire to be friends
with others. Sakuya has the commitment and sense of duty to the
exclusion of everything else. That's another reason why we paired you
together... Hopefully you can learn from each other."

"So what do I do?" Kimeko finally blurted out, "I want Misako to like me
but..." Kimeko lifted her hands in desperation. <Talking to Sakuya's so
much easier... At least about THIS particular subject. I'm sure she had
no problems at all talking to them about Usagi.>

"Well," Endymion said after some consideration, "Unlike Usagi, Misako
isn't so..." He twirled his hands as if searching for the right word,
"so... forceful."

"Endymion's right," Serenity agreed, "I don't even dare tell Misako that
she'd be spanked if she continued because Misako would start to wail.
Usagi would hear that and go ahead and do what she wanted." <It reminds
me of another little girl long ago.>

"So Misako's more sensitive?" Kimeko asked.

"Well not more sensitive but she has a different view of things from
Usagi," Endymion said, "Sitting her in a corner for half an hour for a
time-out is, in Misako's eyes, one of the few ultimate sanctions for
being bad." He paused as if in reflection, "I remember the time Misako
was learning to draw. You were with the other Senshi on some tour or
some such... Anyway we first spotted her starting to color on one wall;
we told her that it was `okay' to draw on the paper but not the walls."

"I remember that," Serenity said, "Hai, we were specific and repeated it
a few times. For whatever reason though Misako simply would not leave
that wall alone." Serenity paused as she reflected upon her own self, "I
was running out of patience with her so finally I said that if she so
much as touched that wall I'd spank her."

"What happened, Serenity-sama?" Kimeko asked.

"It was definitely the wrong thing to say." Serenity shook her head and
chuckled, "She started to cry... I had a heck of a time getting her to
stop."

"Hai and once you did," Endymion resumed the narrative, "Misako refused
to draw or color for a week."

"So what do I do? I want Misako to like me," Kimeko said. She was
gleaning information from the tale but at the moment she wanted a direct
answer to her own current problems.

"Kimeko, don't worry," Serenity said, "Misako may not talk to you for
awhile but she'll get over it. As to what to do... Watch her but ignore
the tantrums. They'll go away once she sees that she doesn't have an
audience. You have our backing and trust as Misako's guardian to
`punish' her for unacceptable behavior.  Warn Misako that her behavior
isn't acceptable and if she continues, she'll be put in her room."

"That usually does it," Endymion said, "It'll be hard the first few
times but eventually Misako will see that you mean business."

Kimeko considered this for a few moments, "Well it's worth a try...  Say
what DID Sakuya say to you about Usagi, Endymion-sama?"

"I believe her exact words were, `Either you swat that kid or I'm going
to! Princess or no princess!'" Endymion chuckled, "Like I said, direct
as usual." Kimeko's only response was to smile; she could just picture
the scene.

                                  ******

Elder Venus sat in one of the observation chairs overlooking the Senshi
Battle Simulation Area, hands gripping the arms, mouth tightly clamped
shut. She was trying not to make noise, that was the condition for being
in here. She watched HER daughter weave between two buildings and pop up
for the attack.  Unfortunately for the young girl, the enemy also
decided to fire at that moment and they blew each other away.

"Not bad," Younger Jupiter commented to herself, "Her time's improved
and she made it through the first three levels without getting tagged."

<Now there's a complement,> Venus thought. She let a smile creep onto
her face as she thought about her daughter. Coming from Younger Jupiter
a "not bad" was fairly good. Elder Venus got up to go and meet her
daughter who was coming out of the simulation room looking
none-too-pleased.

"I would change back to Minako if I were you," came Younger Jupiter's
voice, "She'll be looking for support from her mom, not the Commander,
and if she knows that you were watching her, she'll be mortified."

<Good point,> Elder Venus thought as she reverted back. "Arigato,
Sako-chan." <At least she isn't a hypocrite,> Minako thought as she went
to meet her daughter and noticed that Younger Jupiter had reverted as
well.

"I don't believe it!" Kimeko snarled out, "I got that far and then we
both kill each other!" She pounded the sliding door. It wouldn't swing
so she'd have to find a wooden one to slam open. She saw her mother
standing there. <Gomen Mom...>

"Hey I've died too," Minako admitted, "Come on, Kimeko-chan, let's go
get something to eat and you can tell me about it." She then took Kimeko
firmly but gently by the arm and led Kimeko down the hall toward their
quarters.

Sakuya smiled, <That's what Kimeko needed; it seems the timeline has
altered her fighting abilities for the worse but I can understand that,
Kimeko has other duties now besides training.>

They entered Minako's rooms. Kimeko and Sakuya sat on the couch as
directed while Minako went to get something cold to drink.  After some
rather painful sounding crashes Minako reappeared carrying a tray with
drinks on them.

Sakuya carefully tested hers. <Well it's drinkable this time,> Sakuya
thought, <Either that or whatever will kill me later doesn't have any
taste to it.>

"Sako-chan, that wasn't fair!" Kimeko protested after finishing off half
her drink, "You had the enemy rating set up to your league." A small
pout formed on her face, "I'm not that good!"

Minako snorted, "Please, Kimeko-chan, you are very good, as you get
older you'll get better." <You should of seen me when I was your age.>
Minako turned to Sakuya and said, "How'd she do?"

"Minako's right, Kimeko-chan, you are getting better. You made it
through the first three levels without getting tagged."

"Yeah... but I died on the critical level," Kimeko said sullenly. "If I
had made it to the fifth, I would have picked up a rating point."

"Kimeko," Sakuya said slight annoyance tingeing her voice, "Would you
quit worrying about rating points. What happened could have happened to
anybody. It was simply bad timing."

"Sako-chan, why is she worried about rating points?" Minako asked, "And
what the heck are they?"

Kimeko flushed slightly, "Gomen Sako-chan, Mom, I didn't mean to let
that slip out."

"Minako-chan, these rating points are simply a measure of the Younger
Senshi's power levels. It helps me keep track of their progress and what
areas they need to work on."

"Well what about the Elder Senshi?" Minako asked, "Why not keep track of
us?"

"Because you'd blow MY Senshi out of the water," Sakuya said, "You Elder
Senshi walk around with large amounts of power and you've had vast
amounts of time for training."

"So you're saying we'd discourage them?"

"Hai, it's a outlet for them to have some friendly competition without
challenging each other directly," Sakuya admitted.

"Hai, Sakuya's right, Mom. You guys would blow us out of the water."
Kimeko added, "Besides you're the best fighter among the Elders, right
Mom?" <You're the best, Mom, and I have a long way to go to make you
proud of me.> Minako shifted uneasily, "Right Mom?" Kimeko said again.

"Um well... we don't really know," Minako admitted, "Tactically speaking
probably because I worked alone before joining the others. On simple
power? Iie... not even close."

"Correction, on simple `combat effective' power you're very close,"
Sakuya amended. "Minako-chan, you're forgetting that Saturn's powers are
well... you know."

Kimeko watched as Minako nodded, "Like what?"

"Nothing, so Kimeko-chan, what do you say we try it together?" Minako
said. <I know Sakuya. You were about to say Saturn's powers were at
least that of Black Lady's but that would raise too many questions to
properly answer for Kimeko at the moment... I don't think you'd like to
go through that experience again.>

"Really, Mom?" Kimeko's eyes widened, "You'd help me?"

"Hai, it's the least I could do for a Senshi under my command," she
winked, "That's if it's okay with Sako-chan?"

"Hai, but it doesn't count. We'll call it a practice session," Sakuya
conceded. <You two rascals.>

                                  ******

Younger Venus, performing her nightly rounds, peeked into Misako's room.
<Where is she? Misako should be asleep by now,> she wondered worriedly.
Misako had been so good these past few months.  She had improved; she
still missed Usagi but it seemed to be getting better. Her parents
advice had worked. The tantrums without an audience faded away. Kimeko
had put Misako into her room only three times since her talk with
Serenity. The first time it happened, Misako had been totally shocked
that Kimeko would do that.  Younger Venus was about to shut the door and
go looking for the young girl in earnest when she heard a sniffle.

Coming fully into a room, she looked around. There was no one visible.
Walking over to the bed she bent down and looked under it, there was
Misako holding a teddy bear tightly for protection.

"Princess?" Younger Venus asked, "What are you doing under the bed?"

"Bad monster," a frightened Misako answered. "Onee-chan not here to
scare it away." <I need you, Onee-chan!>

Younger Venus had relaxed her guard and said, "Want me to scare it away,
Miko-chan?" Misako shook her head, "Is it gone?" Misako nodded slowly
and sniffled again. <Now what?> "Come on Princess, let's get you tucked
back into bed." Reaching in Younger Venus pulled Misako out from under
the bed, helped her to stand up, and straightened her teddy bear
pajamas. The little girl looked so forlorn that she couldn't resist, she
hugged Misako who returned the hug wholeheartedly. <Is this what Sakuya
feels? She said that the one you protect will become one of your best
friends. I can't see how I was happy before I was appointed your
guardian, little one.> Picking her up Kimeko settled the child back into
bed and said softly, "Now try and go to sleep."

"I want Onee-chan; she away a long time..." Misako sniffled out. <Maybe
she forget me.>

Younger Venus considered the problem. There wasn't any GOOD reason for
the young Princess to go back into the past. <Now what would be a fair
reason then?> Then an idea crept into her head, <It just might work! And
just maybe...>

"Don't worry, Miko-chan... I have an idea to help you see Princess Usagi
in the past."

"Really?!" Misako's eyes widened, "Kim'ko help me?"

"Hai!" Younger Venus said, "Now here's what we're going to do..."



Chapter 5 - A Theft of Time

"You paged me?" Sakuya asked bleary eyed as she half walked, half
stumbled into her office well after midnight. <Why can't he ever find
anything in the middle of the day?> she thought grumpily; she longed for
that nice warm bed.

"Hai ma'am," RH replied, "I was poking around when I found something
that struck me as odd."

Sakuya frowned, RH was being serious; this was not good. Sitting down
she closed her eyes for a few seconds before saying, "Okay what did you
find?"

"I was digging around in some old Tokyo Police reports and the like,
there was an incident with a crime boss involving and I quote..." RH
paused before saying, "`a young girl appearing to be dressed like a
Senshi'."

Sakuya's frown grew, "Was there a description given? And what has got
you twisted into a knot?"

"The history books do not indicate any of the Senshi making contact with
a crime boss during the period the report was filed. Further study would
suggest that a person resembling Princess Usagi was dressed like a
Senshi."

"But that doesn't make sense!" Sakuya thought, "Why wouldn't any of the
Senshi know about it?"

"Unknown. I thought I would call you first."

"Arigato, now give me a hardcopy and then secure the police report.
This is now classified and IS NOT to be released to any others."

"Working..." RH said, "Police report secured. You are the only one with
access."

"Good. Now keep digging, I need anything else you can give me." With
that Sakuya stalked out of the office, printout in hand. She had a
person to find.

                                  ******

"It's been too long, Pluto!" Younger Jupiter growled out, "She's been
gone a long time... Something must have gone wrong!" <And you know what
it is, you bitch.>

"Small Lady is fine, YOUNGER Jupiter. You will get nowhere by yelling at
me."

"Damn it Pluto, open your eyes. Are you willing to jeopardize Small
Lady's existence for the simple preservation of the timestream?"

Pluto shifted uncomfortably for a few moments before looking away
slightly, "Hai, I am."

The blood in Younger Jupiter's veins ran cold with the admission. She
KNEW Pluto cared about Usagi but... <Oh Kami-sama! It has to be that
Usagi's THAT Senshi!> Younger Jupiter turned on her heels and stalked
down the corridor thinking dark thoughts and planning.

                                  ******

"Mommy," Misako started. "I want go to past for my birthday present,"
Misako requested. It was nearing her fifth birthday. <Kim'ko is smart,>
Misako thought, <Mommy said I could have `anything' for my birthday.>
The Royal Family was having breakfast with Minako and Kimeko in
attendance.  Sakuya had politely declined the offer saying she had
something to do.

Serenity looked at her daughter, "I thought we settled this before.
Miko-chan, you can't go to the past."

"But you promised!" Misako protested.

"Iie, Miko-chan don't lie," Serenity admonished gently, "I didn't
promise you could go to the past."

"Iie, Mommy, I not lie," Misako grinned mischievously, "You said I could
have ANYTHING I wanted for birthday present. I wanna go see Onee-chan be
S'nshi!"

Serenity glared when Endymion covered his mouth with a napkin and made
coughing sounds that sounded like laughter. <You sneaky... I doubt you
came up with that idea on your own.> Serenity glared at Kimeko who had
mind enough to look guilty, <Well...> "Princess Misako, I will have to
think about it."

"I'm going to past!" Misako happily started bouncing up and down, "Past!
Past! Past!" <Arigato Kim'ko!!>

"Iie, Miko-chan, I said I'd have to think about it," Serenity corrected.
She almost changed her mind when Misako's face became slightly sad
looking, "I'll tell you when your birthday gets closer."

"O-Kay," Misako conceded subdued. <Baka Mommy!>

                                  ******

"Obaa-san?" Sakuya called out, "Have you finished breakfast?"

"Hai! Come in, Sako-chan," called Makoto, "And what can I do for you?"

"Well I wanted to talk to you about an idea that I have," Sakuya
started, "You know I was thinking maybe I could go back into the past
for a vacation."

Makoto blinked before furrowing her brow, "Have you talked to Pluto?"

"Hai," Sakuya replied. <Yep sure did... just not about this. I don't
want to lie to you.>

"I don't suppose you'd be asking my opinion if Pluto had not allowed you
to go?" Seeing Sakuya's nod Makoto grinned, "I think it would be a great
idea." <We could go boy hunting again. My weren't we terrors back then.>
"You wouldn't happen to remember that place we got kicked out of because
we thought the manager was kawaii?"

"Hai! I do, Obaa-san, and may none of the other Senshi learn about that
particular incident," Sakuya said, taking the offered coffee, "I don't
think I could live it down."

Makoto chucked, "I know what you mean, Sako-chan. I don't think I could
live it down either."

                                  ******

"Your Majesty," Sakuya said, "I thought I might take some leave and go
to the past... as a vacation."

"Not you too?!" Serenity protested, "I haven't heard anything else
except `Mommy can I go to the past for my birthday?' for the past two
weeks..." She was still thinking of a suitable revenge for Kimeko, <Oh
you just wait, Kimeko, you'll regret ever giving her that idea. You're
just like your mother.>

Sakuya managed to keep from snickering but Makoto didn't, Serenity
glared at her so Makoto said, "Ah come on Serenity, Sakuya deserves a
rest; Pluto even agreed."

"She did?" Serenity asked, "Strange, but one never knows what the enigma
known as Pluto will do."

"Quite true, Your Majesty," Sakuya conceded, "Princess Usagi has been
gone some time and I'm quite sure that Your Majesty is worried about
her?" Serenity nodded, "I could check in on her and when I come back I
could tell you how she is progressing." Serenity nodded again, a
thoughtful expression coming on her face. "Also, Your Majesty, as Sailor
Moon she will eventually come under my training and authority. That is
until she is properly trained." Sakuya ventured, she was guessing at
that part but thought it was safe.

"You think this would be good, Mako-chan?" Serenity asked.

"Hai, it certainly would," Makoto said, <Good for me and her! I remember
how much I missed you, Sakuya.>

"Very well, Sako-chan. I'll let Minako know." <Both Usagis will be happy
to see you in addition to a certain brown haired Senshi I remember.>

"Arigato, Your Majesty. I'll go pack and leave immediately then." Bowing
once to both older women Sakuya hurried from her room. <Now to put the
final pieces of my plan into action.>

Sakuya slipped down the hall to her room and gathered some clothes and
the other items she had acquired in the past before into a backpack. She
walked over to her wall safe and spun the combination. Carefully Sakuya
removed a small cylindrical device. <Okay I may hate Pluto but I won't
kill her... just give her a lot of pain.> With that she took out the
small grenade and set it to the highest stun setting. She then carefully
set it down and went back to getting some other items for the trip
ready.

                                  ******

Sakuya obviously hadn't asked Pluto. She hated lying to Makoto and
Serenity but something was wrong in the past. Something she had to take
care of; her sense of duty simply wouldn't allow it to rest. From what
RH had managed to dig up, the picture it painted wasn't pretty. What
Sakuya couldn't figure out was why none of the history books reported
the incident.

Silently she padded down the hall and peeked around the corner. There
was Pluto talking with her two grunts, Uranus and Neptune. <Alright!>
Younger Jupiter's brain shouted, <Time to cause some pain!> Flicking the
on switch she tossed the stun grenade in a graceful arc. Younger Jupiter
wasn't stupid she took refuge in a nearby room. The explosion rattled
the walls and alarms started to ring. Darting out of the room she saw
that all three Senshi were visibly dazed and in pain. Running up to
Pluto, she snagged a Time Key off Pluto's belt. She ran off down the
hall, then making sure no one was around and activated the key.  Just as
a contingent of guards came around the corner at the other end of the
hall Younger Jupiter disappeared into the timestream.



Chapter 6  Misako's Present

"Serenity-chan," Minako said, "Come on... please let Misako go... Kimeko
could go with her."

"Minako-chan, are you doing this for Misako or yourself?" Serenity
asked. She had become irritable where this subject was concerned. "I
know I let Sakuya go back a few days ago but this isn't something that I
can just allow willy-nilly. Pluto might not approve. It would mean
having four people who technically don't belong in that time period
there."

Minako was hurt, "Serenity, I'm doing this because Misako does miss her
sister and it isn't right to keep them separated for so long. You
remember how that feels. What could a simple visit do to the timeline?"
Minako took a breath before saying, "Besides I watched you play with
Usagi as sisters, not as mother and daughter. I want that chance, to
know Kimeko as a sister and a friend. You got closer to Usagi, why not
let me do the same for Kimeko?"

Serenity didn't have any argument. How could she deny that to one of her
oldest friends? "I'll ask Sailor Pluto... Okay, Minako-chan?"

"Hai! Arigato!" Minako beamed. <Watch out past here comes my daughter!>

                                  ******

"So you would not have any objections to Princess Misako and Younger
Venus going into the past?"

"Iie, Your Majesty, I would not," Pluto stated simply.

Serenity looked at her, "You were so adamant about Younger Jupiter not
going back before. What's caused you to change your mind?"

"Those reasons I can't say, My Queen."

Serenity let the subject drop. She knew that Pluto would simply avoid
answering questions that she didn't want to answer.

                                  ******

"Now, Miko-chan, we have to get you into a bath," Kimeko started, "Your
mother has called you to appear in the Throne Room and I'm certainly not
letting you go filthy."

"Iie! Iie! I not want bath, I clean!" Misako protested. She simply
detested baths. She started to dart under the bed but Kimeko snagged her
and hauled her toward the bathroom. "I NOT WANT BATH!!!" Misako howled.

<Gomen Princess...> Kimeko said, "Your Highness, you have to."

"Why?" Misako said while struggling.

<Well...> Kimeko got an idea, "Because Princess if you'll be good and
take a bath, then that will help you get to the past."

Misako stopped her struggling, "Really?"

"Hai, only good little girls go to the past," Kimeko said with a
straight face. <Boy was that ever a lie! Usagi isn't a darling little
angel but maybe you won't remember that.> Apparently Misako was happy to
oblige Kimeko on that count.

"Hai Kim'ko-chan, you help me?" Misako agreed. She wasn't allowed to
bath alone and Mommy wasn't here.

"Hai, we have to get started," Kimeko said and started peeling off
Misako's socks. Misako for her part happily complied because "only good
little girls go to the past."

                                  ******

"Show me your curtsy," Younger Venus instructed. Misako complied yet
again and curtsied, "Excellent Princess Misako. Now remember you have to
call them `Your Majesty'."

"Why?" Misako questioned. <They Mommy and Daddy.>

"Just because," Younger Venus said while fussing with Misako's dress.
<How do I explain Court etiquette to a four year old? Correction five
year old, only a few more days until she's five.>

"You Majesty?" Misako questioned.

"Close enough," Younger Venus replied as they were announced.

"Her Highness Princess Misako and Younger Venus."

Serenity sitting on her throne watched as her youngest daughter entered
the room and walked until there was a near inaudible prompting to
"stop". Apparently Misako had intended to walk all the way up to the
front.  However Misako kept herself well balanced and curtsied; Serenity
smiled; she'd have to praise Misako AND Kimeko for that. There were
smiles from the members of the Court seeing this.

"Princess Misako, you requested to go to the past to see your sister,
Princess Usagi, as a birthday present?"

Misako nodded at first then Serenity saw her jerk forward slightly as if
nudged, "Hai, You Majesty," Misako said aloud; Serenity kept a straight
face but she could see Mars openly grinning to her left.

"You haven't changed your mind?"

"Iie, You Majesty," Misako said. <I being good and Mommy will let me
go.>

Serenity grinned, <I remember Usagi doing that...> "Very well then
Princess Misako, I will allow you to travel back into the past. You will
leave on your birthday." Serenity expected Misako to break her composure
and start prancing around the room but she kept her place. <Excellent!>
Serenity thought, <You're taking this much better than I would have
thought. I'm so proud of you.> "You are dismissed." Serenity watched
Misako curtsy again and Younger Venus bow before leaving the room. The
doors were closed for not more than ten seconds before Serenity caught
the very distinct sounds of excited yelling. <I'm very glad to make you
happy... Misako. You better watch out Usagis,> Serenity thought before
turning her attention back to other business.

                                  ******

"You wished to see me, Serenity-sama?" Kimeko asked as she nervously
entered the Royal Family's private quarters. Misako had been very
thrilled that she was going to the past. <I'm so happy for you,
Misako... I expect that I won't be going since Sakuya is already there.>
It had been a slight hope but now...

"Hai, Kimeko-chan, come in," Serenity said motioning to a chair, "Please
sit down. Would you like some tea?"

"Hai," Kimeko answered, "You really made Misako's day. Arigato."

"I know," Serenity said, "She wanted to go so badly." <I would too if I
could.> She handed the cup to Kimeko before saying, "I hope you will
enjoy it as well."

Kimeko choked on her tea; sitting the cup down she tried to get her
breathing back under control, "NANI?!?" she questioned, "`Hope I enjoy
it'?!"

<Hah! Give my daughter sneaky ideas, will you.> Serenity smiled
internally, "Why yes, did you think I'd simply send Misako back alone?"

"Um well..." Kimeko searched for the words, "Serenity-sama, I thought
you'd only send Misako back because Sakuya's already there."

Serenity frowned, "My dear child, you are Misako's guardian not Sakuya."
<Well I'm not about to let you know what Minako and I talked about.>
"Besides Sakuya's on vacation... I told Minako that. Didn't she tell
you?"

<Mom told me... Mom! Mom talked to Serenity! Arigato.> "Hai... I guess I
forgot. Gomen." It was difficult for Kimeko to contain her excitement.

"Well you should get ready. You leave tomorrow with Misako,
Kimeko-chan."

"Hai, Serenity-sama, arigato." Kimeko didn't bow but instead hugged
Serenity and bounded out of the room.

<Arigato, Goddaughter,> Serenity thought but she gave a smile as Kimeko
hurried from the room. <I'll let you torture your mom in the past like
Chibi-Usa did to me. That will be my revenge. Well... torture might be a
bit too strong of a word,> she mused.

Coming next Chapter 7 - Good-byes and Renewed Acquaintances