Roy looked toward the
horizon, in the distance were some of the buildings on the outskirts of the
city, smoldering still. Of course there would be a lot of work to rebuild
everything. Surely many lives would have been lost, and in spite of all his
efforts, his companions, the warriors and those that Tom and the girls had
done, they could not have been prevented that those damned demons and their
minions sow the panic among the innocent people. But that was not the fault of
those who fought to destroy evil. And what counted was that, finally, even at
the cost of great suffering and pain, they had triumphed. Earth had been saved.
- Now I just hope that
we will all be able to raise the city again. - He sighed thinking aloud. -
- Yeah, I am sure we will.
But now I'm anxious to see Petz again. And surely you will want to go with
Bertie. -Sapphire replied, wanting to remove from the head of his friend the
bittersweet taste of those reflections. - Is not that right, my friend?
-Yes,- his companion agreed with a smile, leaving
aside all other thoughts. - Let's get them boys! Surely they will be bewilder
and euphoric to see us!
Sapphire
nodded willingly and prepared to fly, Roy was going to do the same but on the
contrary Diamond did not move. He had been very quiet for a while, absorbed in
his own thoughts, and it was Roy who gave him a look of strangeness.
- Go you - The prince
said to them, leaving his silence at last - I am not going to accompany you.
-Why not, my friend? -
Roy asked in surprise. - Do not you want to come with us?
- There is a person
that I should looking for. - He answered with a thoughtful air - someone who
loved me once and whom I did not know how to respond ...
-It's about Emerald, is
not it, brother? - Sapphire affirmed, to which the alluded one nodded slowly.-
- But she died,- his
younger brother objected regretfully as he added, -and as the wizard explained
to us when we arrived to Heaven, she was plunged into the abyss of those who
must purge their guilts.
-Landar told me that if
anyone is willing to give love to those who suffer there, they can be saved. You
have two wonderful girls waiting for you, I did not have anyone. Now that I
know what she felt for me, I will do my best to rescue her from that awful place.
I owe it to her, and if I do, maybe we can start over. I do not know if I will
truly love her or it will only be an intense affection. But at least I know
that she did love me sincerely and for that alone it is worth trying. And above
all, I want to tell her that I'm sorry.
Roy smiled then,
placing an affectionate hand on his partner's right shoulder.
- I understand that I
won the bet.
His friend smiled and
had to nod slowly to confess.
-And of course I do not
like to admit it.
-What bet? - Sapphire wanted
to know.-
-It is a long story.
God willing when I return, I'll tell you, brother. - He replied.-
-We'll go with you to
help you,- Roy offered, with the immediate assent of Sapphire. None of them
thought to leave their companion and brother, respectively, on his own in that
difficult test. - Let's see the girls and we'll escort you wherever you need.
- No my friend. I know
you both say it heartily. - Diamond smiled gratefully and yet objected. - But
this is something that I must do alone. – And then it was only he who rose in
the air saying goodbye. - See you soon and thanks for everything. When I
rescued her I will look for you and we will celebrate the triumph all together.
I promise you.
- Diamond, be careful! -
His excited brother could say with a whisper.-
However, the person
caught the words and he added moments
before leaving.
-I'll take care - He
assured now, grinning and declaring. - I should have done it before, but I
apologize for all my past mistakes. Sapphire ... forgive me for not always
being the older brother I should have been. I dragged you all to this and I am
sorry that you had to pay for me. Good luck and be happy with Petz. You deserve
it.
- It was not only your
fault ... - His brother rebuked him even though the prince would not let him
finish. -
-I'm so glad I found a
good friend besides a brother. Take care of yourself too. -And before the
others could try to reply, Diamond concluded in a more youthful tone. - And do
not you dare to ride any of those parties that Roy talks about without me or
Emerald.
- Dear little prince,
we will be waiting for you to try the karaoke. – Roy assured raising a thumb. -
And you will sing! ...
Diamond
smiled for the last time to them and rose quickly through the clouds. He flew
into the sky again, abstracted in his thoughts. Remembering bitterly some past
episodes. Like the last group conversation he had with his friends before that
big battle. In it, everyone confessed to the rest what really pissed them off.
He was thinking about when he intervened...
-It's my turn now - he
said. - And my brother's right. It's not easy at all. It has never been for me
to recognize that I was totally wrong. - He added with regret in his tone. - I
have always been very proud. Superb even. And that caused me to drag all my
subjects to ruin...
Sapphire
wanted to say something to refute that, however, Roy laid a hand on the boy's
right shoulder so he would not. He understood. His brother had to get all that
out ... So Diamond went on.
-It does not pass a
moment without letting me regret it. And what is worse. And I agree with Ail. I
tried to steal Serenity's heart by force. I even tried to abuse her, well, the Sailor
Moon, when I captured her in my palace.
Everyone gasped. But
they said nothing. The prince continued.
-Fortunately someone
prevented me of doing that ... I do not know who it would be but I wish I could
thank him.
-I know who it was. -
Sapphire stated, intervening this time.-
-It was you?
-No brother. It was
her. Emerald…
-Emerald? - Repeated
his interlocutor with even greater surprise. - But how? Of course, that dark
energy that blinded me. -He mumbled in astonishment.-
-She loved you. She
wanted you always. And although corrupted, her love was still strong enough not
to want to see you in the arms of another woman .- Said Sapphire confessing in
turn .- I told her that I also hated the Warrior Moon, because I thought then
that, because of your obsession with her, our plans had failed. Had we killed
her in the past, we would have triumphed immediately. However, Emerald was
jealous of your love for Queen Serenity. -That alone mattered to her.-
-I understand. - He
whispered, his eyes narrowing. - She was a cheerful and timid girl when she
came to court. Mom loved her like a daughter and she adored our mother. I was
stupid enough not to realize. Mom always talked to me about Emerald. She did
know that. The poor girl even gave me the seeds of my favorite flowers. Before
my trip to Earth. - He finished with a low voice - Then everything changed.
-When we triumph, you
can thank her and amend that. - Roy wanted to cheer him on. - It's never late,
my friend. I'm sure she still loves you.
Nevertheless,
his companion shook his head, looking sad in his eyes and replied.
-Unfortunately for me
that is impossible. She died. - He sighed trying to subdue his grief and
continue, as he confessed. - You make me being jealous of you, my friends. Your
girls are there, waiting for you. But I can only mourn my blindness. And not
the one that pulled me away from the Serenity of the past. I was a bastard
then. An idiot totally full of myself. And, of course, only committed to
complying with my ridiculous revenge. As stupid as unjust it was.
-Do not be so hard on yourself,
brother. Please. – Sapphire asked feeling sorry for him. - Stop punishing
yourself like that.
Now
his interlocutor smiled weakly at him, placing a hand on his beard and saying
with dismay.
-You were always the
voice of reason. - I never took you
seriously enough. I believed infallible and truly loaded in everything I did.
And you see ... where I have led you.
-Listen brother. - His
interlocutor answered him firmly and decisively now. - Perhaps this may not
bring back Emerald. Or anyone in our family. But you can make up for all your
mistakes. From what you said once, you sacrificed yourself to save Sailor Moon.
Now you will return with us and we will save the very Earth that one day we
wanted to destroy. The home of our ancestors.
-Yes. - Diamond agreed.
- And I left this Billy-goat-beard as a symbol of a maturity that I have been
slow to reach. What a fool I was ... What an idiot! -He sobbed suddenly,
covering his eyes with one hand, trying to stop the tears from reaching his
cheeks.
The
others gave him looks of support and sadness. On this occasion it was Nephrite
who put a hand on his shoulder to try to encourage him.
-All we were idiots and
blind. Each in a way. Your brother is right. Do not punish yourself any more,
my friend.
-We understand each
other very well - Ail added. - None of us have been saints.
-We're a team, we're
partners. - Roy said. - And we've earned the redemption.
-Not yet. - The prince had recovered his aim once he said.
- We still have to kick those bastards in the ass ...
That made Roy smile
when he replied.
-I like that. - You start talking like a normal person. And
not as flatten little prince.
Diamond
looked at him and smiled, feeling grateful. He did the same to the rest of his
friends. Soon he reached out with the palm of his open hand. Then Roy put his
on, and then Nephrite, Ail and Sapphire.
-Whatever happens to
us, no matter what! Always united. - Sentenced the alien.-
-And if one does not
manage to survive the rest, others will continue and realize their dreams and
those of fallen comrades." - Added Sapphire.-
-So be it, - agreed his
brother.
-Keep the faith. You
know! - Roy reminded them, adding something to the emotional moment.- Let's
win! Unbend, unbreakable, unbroken, or as Corporal Jones said, the chosen, the
proud, and the pricks.
-Do not hesitate, mate.
-Nephrite replied with a smile and everyone's nod.-
He
smiled again as he remembered that. He had the good fortune to find some great
friends, as well as companions. Now he wanted to do what he could to make
amends. Perhaps it was an absurd hope. Or something impossible, but he had to
try. So he came to Heaven again and asked the magician for advice.
-Landar! Are you there?
- He wanted to know.- Could I see you, please?
Luckily he did not have to wait too
long. Next to him appeared an old man approaching Diamond, dressed in a white
robe and wielding a long staff.
-I am pleased to see
that you and your comrades have triumphed. I'm glad to see you again. - Landar
greeted him with obvious satisfaction. -
-I came for what you
told me before the battle, was that true? - This one inquired with visible
interest. - My brother Sapphire told me something similar.
- Yes, it was, you want
to know more, right? - Guess the magician. -
-Is it true that she
loved me? Is it true that she died for me? - Asked Diamond very restless and
astonished at the time. -
The wizard nodded
slowly and explained:
-She had been in love
with you ever since she was a child, when her father introduced her to yours in
the court of Nemesis. Then you ignored her when you met Queen Serenity. Emerald
endured it with self-denial as she took care of your mother, but then the evil
envoy appeared.
-The Wise Man - said
Diamond, reflective and restrained by his anger. - Damned!
- Yes, he was the cause
of your evil behavior. He led your souls to hatred against Queen Serenity and
Earth. And she changed.
- Now I remember when I
met Emerald. - Diamond replied head down and with a great feeling of guilt. - She
was a cheerful young lady, and her father was one of the noblest men in my
world, both for his title and for his personality. My father held him in high
regard.
- That's right, but the
purity of soul of that poor girl was corrupted by evil, she fell into the trap
of the Wise man and she did not know how to scape...
- But why is not he
here? We could redeem ourselves, why did not she? - He wanted to know,
surprised. -
-You see, - the
magician explained after a brief silence, - when you died you went to an
inferior astral plane to purge your faults, you no longer remember that, since
it was erased from your memory. Fortunately, when you and your brother, Sapphire,
Nephrite and Ail died, you did it in a noble way. You came to see that you were
wrong and regretted of your previous course. Your souls could be claimed here.
When Roy died and came to me, you were chosen to finish by redeeming yourselves
fighting for good alongside him. But - and now it was Landar who looked down,
revealing his interlocutor. - Emerald to her misfortune died with much hatred
and wrath, her soul was corrupted by the evils that provoked the Wise Man. She
could not attain that same purgatory, as you call it. Her soul descended by an
eternal pit of blackness and suffering. There she will be until she is
purified, then she will transcend to Eternity.
- I. I will not be able
to rescue her? I want to give her a new chance, as you gave it to me. I know I
owe her, - Diamond declared, determined to do so. -
Landar
seemed to be unsure, but after a few moments he remarked in a somewhat hesitant
way.
-There might be a
possibility, if she continues in the depths of the abyss. But if she has
purified herself and transcended her soul, you will not be able to do so.
-Has her done it yet?
Has she transcended? -Asked Diamond even more uneasily. -
- Wait a moment. -
Landar seemed to concentrate, looking up and closing his eyes, finally
answered. – No, not yet. She still has much to purge, she has eliminated all
the hatred that possessed her, but now she is beginning to understand all the
evil she did. It is a very heavy burden for her spirit and she will surely be
suffering a lot.
-I have to get her out
of there anyway! Said Diamond even more decisively. -You have to tell me how I
can do it. Please!
- Everything will pass
through the capacity of your love. That's the only thing that can save her.
-My love? ... I have
always loved her, perhaps I never knew how to prove it to her, but I want to
save her. I already told you that I owe it to her. I'll go where it needs be, -
said the young man. -
- Keep in mind that a
debt of gratitude and love are not the same thing, young prince. - The magician
warned him by sentence. - It would not do Emerald any good to get to her if you
do not really love her.
Diamond was thoughtful
for a moment. Maybe the wizard was right about that. He greatly appreciated Emerald,
at least back then when they were both boys and she cared for his mother, Queen
Amethyst. But he could not say that it was really love. Although some time,
when he was with her alone, he came to feel anything special. He remembered
that too ... One afternoon at the palace. He had finished his classes and was
on his way to visit his mother. The queen sat on a garden bench, taking
advantage of the dim light of her world.
-Mother - he said.
The
woman smiled at once. She was certainly glad that her son was going to visit
her. Her delicate health would not let her leave her room more than
occasionally. That afternoon she felt better.
-How are your classes,
son?
-Boring. - He sighed
making her laugh.-
Although
this immediately caused the queen a coughing fit. Diamond ran for water and
took it to her mother. She drank feeling better.
-Sorry. - The boy
apologized.
Although
Amethyst immediately took a hand to affirm with a smile.
-You do not have to. I
am very happy when I am with you or with your brother. My most precious jewels!
A Diamond and a Sapphire that are really valuable, not like the stones bearing
those names.
The
boy smiled in turn, flattered and pleased to see his mother. However, she
noticed before the young man another presence, to add with joviality.
-Not to forget another
jewel I appreciate very much.
-Your Majesty, Your
Highness. - A feminine voice said. - Good afternoon. -
The
boy turned to the source of it and saw Emerald. The maid of her mother, and
daughter of the Duke of Green. Then the girl made a sharp bow. In her hands was
also something that brought the sovereign closer, adding with joy.
-I have found them.
Majesty - The jasmine flowers you asked for. I transplanted them to this pot. I
did not want to rip them off...
-You did very well -
Her interlocutor smiled, declaring. - The flowers must be alive so that we can
admire all their beauty.
-Are they the ones I
planted? - Diamond wanted to know.-
Although that made the
girl blush, she hurried to say in a hurry.
-Forgive me, Your
Highness, I wanted to bring them to your mother so I could have them closer...
But the boy nodded
approvingly. Then he replied kindly.
-It was a very nice
detail. And a good idea. I appreciate it a lot.
The alluded, visibly
red, did not respond, looking down at that pot.
-Why do not you go and
get some food? The afternoon is very pleasant and I would like to share a cup
of tea and some sandwiches with you.
-I'll arrange
everything, Majesty - Emerald replied.-
-Wait, I'll help you. -
Diamond said.-
The
girl looked at him with surprise even seemed to feel self-conscious and
somewhat embarrassed to add.
-But Your Highness, you
are the prince. These works do not correspond to you.
-It is my duty to make
my mother happy. And help a girl as nice and as kind as you, - he answered with
naturalness.-
Now
that poor girl was totally red. She smiled between nervous and excited. Not
daring to cross her gaze with his. Diamond quickly got a table and chairs. Emerald
took care of bringing tea and some food and so the three enjoyed a very
pleasant afternoon...
-Those were good
moments.- The boy remembered.- And I think then, something in her attracted me ...
and not only her physical beauty. She had kindness in her heart.
Unfortunately,
the corruption to which the Wise Man exposed him and his later obsession for
Queen Serenity, prevented the young man from seeing if this was true love.
-If only I had a chance
to be with her once more to find out. - The prince said thoughtfully. - I think
I would be able to feel love for her, yes. I'm sure. I could save her. - He
added more safely now. -
-It's not that simple
Diamond. You cannot get there on your own. To start with, you would not know
how to go. You also need to strengthen your spiritual power, you can only use
the strength of the spirit once you are inside. – His interlocutor objected.-
-Will you teach me
Landar how I can do it?
-No, - said the wizard,
who shook his head. - I do not ... But there's a man on Earth who belongs to
the class you call shamans, he's in America. - He gave Diamond a course to
follow as he told him. - You'll get to him. Look at the tip of the highest
rock. Follow his teachings, I will tell him by dreams of who you are and what
brings you to his presence. I wish you all the luck and I give you my blessing.
You must be very brave because what awaits you will be even worse than the
dangers you have had to face. I hope you succeed in your endeavor.
-Thank you Landar, I
assure you that I will not return without her. - Diamond promised. -
He
said goodbye to his mentor and flew relentlessly until he reached an alignment
of large granitic peaks in a desert region. Following the instructions of the
magician, he went to the highest, where he could see the summit, and there, in
a tiny light which was, he supposed, a bonfire. He went down and confirmed his
impression. Beside a great fire, sitting cross-legged, a man of old age was
meditating. His skin was sun-brown and wrinkled, he had lacy hair reaching to
his shoulders, gray and white.
-Listen, sir, - Diamond
said, trying to get his attention. Could you help me? - There was no answer.
Please, he said more firmly. Are you listening to me?"
Despite
raising his voice, the man still did not respond. Apparently Diamond did not
exist for him, the boy began to get impatient.
-Listen, my friend, I
did not come here to watch you taking a nap. - He turned to leave, telling himself aloud. - I
may have been wrong to come here.-
-The youth is
impatient, - the old man replied at last, coming out of his silence to
sentence. - You must have more temperance, my young friend.
The
boy sighed in relief, and ignoring this kind of reproach he hastened to polish
with polite kindness.
-I'm sorry to bother
you. I come from ... - But that man stretched out a thin, roasted a sartorial
arm and cut him off. -
- I know, who you are
and the reason for your coming, it was revealed to me in my dreams. I'll tell
you only once. The work you will have before you will be hard and dangerous,
are you sure you want to do it? ...
-Yes, I am, otherwise I
would not have come this far, - replied the questioner, really convinced to
introduce himself. - I am Diamond, prince of Nemesis, what is his name, old
man?
- My name is High
Cloud, I am a shaman and a holy man among mine. I know the ways of the
Hereafter and I can lead you on the path of the unknown, but before you do, you
must learn to take the path of the Spirit.
-Yes, that's what I've
been told, - said Diamond, who inquired in a somewhat impatient tone. - Will it
take me long to get it?"
-That will only depend
on you and how you can control your own spirit. - It was the old man's answer. -
-I do not think it's too
difficult for me to do that. - The young man asked, concentrating on shattering
stone with his energy. – See? I have great strength, I have defeated a very
powerful demon and I know what it is to train hard. - He affirmed with a big
smirk. -
High Cloud did not seem at all impressed. He just
looked at him and shook his head disapprovingly. The boy was puzzled, then the
old Shaman said resignedly.
- It's going to take
you a lot, you only use your material strength, but nothing has to do physical
strength, not even mental strength, with spiritual strength. You are too bound
to the physical world ... you must learn to see everything with the eyes of
your spirit.
-Very well, - agreed Diamond.
- Tell me what I have to do and I will.
-You must get out of
here, it is cold - said the old man, with a faint smile rising between his
stony features. –
-How? Let's go down?
But, I'm in a hurry to start! I may not have much time left. -Diamond objected
more and more impatiently. -
-I did not say let's go
down - that old man corrected him stoically to repeat in a monotone voice, - I
said that you're going to come down. I'll go some later, I have to prepare some
things ...
-It's okay - Diamond
replied reluctantly, adding - But do not take too long, eh?"
The
old man did not answer, his fellow man rose in the air and descended beside the
pick. At the foot of it, in a green valley, there were many stores with conical
shape, supposed that it was the village of the magician. To his surprise, a few
men and women in the typical Indian outfit were waiting for him. Two young
girls took him by the hands and between smiles they took him to the interior of
one of the stores where they gave to him to eat meat and enough milk.
- You are very kind.
This is very good, - Diamond admitted as he chewed a piece, since he was also
starving. - What meat is it?
-Of buffalo, mixed with
snake - replied one of the women to add with enthusiasm. -Delicious, isn´t it?
The
guest continued to chew more slowly, his own enthusiasm for dinner had
dissipated. Not wanting to offend those kind people, he swallowed what he had
left, and when he finished he asked his hosts for the Shaman. But no one knew
how to respond, no one had seen him. Finally, tired after the day, the boy lay
down and fell asleep. The next day he awakened a soft shaking, opened his eyes
and saw Cloud High.
- Come on young, we
must start with your preparation...
-Where did you get in
yesterday?- Diamond asked as he stretched. - Anyway,- he replied, for the old man did not take off
his lips. - You must have been going down that mount all night long, I should
have gotten you down. Well, let's go there again.
Diamond
came out of the tent, beside him was High Cloud, dwarfed greatly by the great
stature of the prince. However, indifferent to that, the shaman looked upward
toward the top of the hill.
- Let me lift you up
and save us time, Grandpa - the boy offered himself with a condescending tone -
...
-Do not worry about me,
come up, everything is ready to begin, - replied the old man with serene
sobriety. - I'll wait for you there ...
- What, you will await
me! Hey, it's going to take you forever to get up there again! Diamond objected,
seeming to lose his patience for seconds. -
- Eternity can
sometimes be contained in an instant, young man, and a second can be eternal at
times. - Replied the Chaman with his already characteristic monochord tone. -
-Okay, then we'll see
each other, I'll climb upstairs and sleep for a while waiting for you. - Diamond replied with a
tone of resigned irony.-
Then
he flew up to the summit with great speed, it only took him a few seconds to
reach his destination, but when he arrived he could not believe what he saw
-What the hell?
The shaman was there,
sitting cross-legged, stirring the fire. Diamond approached slowly, as if it
were a vision that would vanish from moment to moment, but the old man said
with quiet repose.
- I told you to let
yourself be guided by the way of the spirit. This was the first lesson of all.
Now, will you pay attention to what I teach you?
-Yes, of course,- said
his genuinely astonished interlocutor, so much that he could not help asking.
-How did you do it?
-You will do it, too.-
The old man smiled again. - Now let's see.
And
without further ado he drew a large pearl which he put on the fire, from a
small sachet he extracted some herbs which he introduced into it, added water
from a nearby pot of clay and began to sing some chants on his tongue. Diamond
sat next to him imitating his posture and after a few moments of listening, he
said in a tone of deep reflection.
-You're going to show
me a ritual spell to cross the spiritual dimensions, right?- Please, sing more
slowly so I can learn the words ...
The
shaman remained unperturbed, at the same rhythm, and his improvised apprentice
strove to repeat the same syllables as the old man. Anyway it had a good time
and nothing seemed to happen abnormal. Then the old man took a bag that he
poured into the pot, a great cloud of steam rising.
-We have already
conjured the spirits, have not we? - Said Diamond, hopeful. -
-What spirits? - The
old man asked, looking at him as if the boy were crazy. -
-Those who come out of
the pot, - the boy pointed at the vaporous cloud. - I see them, you were not
expected that I would be able to do it so soon, eh? - He smiled triumphantly. -
But
the old man shook his head and countered with a more youthful tint that he had
employee until then.
- This is the steamed
macaroni, I'm really hungry. Yesterday I did not have dinner preparing the
ingredients, now I'm going to eat, do you want to join me? I think hunger gives
you hallucinations, boy.
Diamond fell from his
ass to the floor, unable to believe what he was hearing.
-But, but, - said the
astonished prince as he recovered from that skid. - Then ... What were the
songs for? Hey?..
-I wanted to sing, old
song I learned when I was a young boy. It talks about how beautiful the girls
are bathing in the river. Do you really want to learn it? - Asked the shaman
amused to what Diamond fell again. - I'll show you ...
-No, thank you,- he
said as he rose from the floor and shook the sand to ask with suspicious
displeasure. - Hey, are you kidding me?
- None of that, you are
the one that deceive yourself because you want to. You must see reality as it
is, that is the first step to use the path of the spirit. Forget your
imagination or your opinion of things ... they are what they are, not what you
want or believe they are - and the old man's stony expression relaxed as he
offered his young disciple a plate of macaroni. – Do you want to try? They are
ready now.
- Well, at least I will
eat something, thank you ... - Tried a little and exclaimed quite pleased - Hey,
they are very good! ...
-I'll also show you the
recipe if we have time, - said High Cloud. -
-Will not you have
parmesan? - Diamond inquired hopefully, but the shaman ignored that comment. –
At
last they gave a good account of the macaroni, after cleaning the dishes and
the rest, and taking a nap, the Shaman told the boy that was waiting for his
instructions.
-Now take off your
shirt, - his pupil seemed to hesitate, but he rose and did so. He then received
a new instruction. - Sit like me. - Diamond sat cross-legged again. -
The
old man took some paints and with them drew esoteric marks on the chest and
arms of the young man, he tried to oppose while he objected, not without a bit
of sarcasm.
- Hey, can you tell
what he's doing? I do not think being decorating like a vase is going to open
my spirit, or is it now a tanning cream for the sun?
-You must let me do it
or I will not be able to help you, - the old man replied patiently, continuing
his drawings. -
- Okay, what should I
do now? - Diamond asked resignedly. -
- You must let me
finish, it will still take a few hours ....
-What? - The boy tried
to protest but decided to arm himself with patience, although something
disturbed him. - Listen, I will not have to fill my body with spikes and hang
myself from a tree held by them to go into trance, right?
-What nonsense! -
Replied the old man, for a moment, losing his temper to inquire in a surprised
voice. - Who told you to do that?
-Nothing, nothing,
things of mine, - replied Diamond in amazement. -
And
he had remembered when Roy, in his training, had told him some of the Indian
films he had seen on Earth.
-Yes, little prince,
there was one that was great, "The Triumph of a Man Called Horse."
The protagonist went into trance through pain or something ...
-Good thing This Roy
idiot was just joking! - He thought relieved. -
At
last, at nightfall, Cloud High finished painting Diamond. He turned to him,
this time in a more solemn tone.
- Now you must close your
eyes, let your spirit flow and tell me what you see.
The
boy obeyed and concentrated, after a while remained dark, began to get
impatient. High Cloud, who seemed to read the thought, said in a mood.
- It is not easy to
reach your own spirit. You must persevere ...
-I'll do it.- Diamond
closed his eyes harder but again heard the Chaman's voice. -
- Do not force your
nature, relax, let it flow. You must be serene and be one with what surrounds
you. Do not think, do not want to get it, do not try to feel anything special
... just let it go.
And
although it cost him a lot at last, Diamond relaxed and let his mind go blank.
Soon he began to feel sensations that were strange to him. Lights and flashes
of a white glow, in a hazy fog he could see images of himself that seemed to go
back. Until he reached his childhood. He felt light and unconcerned, and
continued to retreat until he returned to his mother's womb. Then, perceiving
himself surrounded by a warm darkness, he found himself floating in the skies.
Looking down he saw a great hawk struggling to get out of a kind of swamp. He
moved his wings trapped in the mud and, at last, managed to free himself and
take flight. Among those white clouds that were drawn in his mind he felt a
great sense of freedom. There were even voices in his mind that sang in chorus
with the tribal chants of High Cloud.
Love, devotion
Feeling emotion
Do not be afraid of
being weak
Do not feel too proud
to be strong
Just look into your
heart, my friend.
It will be the return
to yourself
The Return to Innocence
To return to innocence
If you want to start
laughing
If you must, start to
cry
Be yourself, do not
hide
Just believe in destiny
Do not care about what
people say
Just go follow your own
way
Do not give up and use
the chance
To return to innocence
This is not the
beginning of the end
It is the return to
yourself
The Return to Innocence
(Return To Innocence,
Enigma, author credit)
Then the old man
touched his shoulder and the vision faded. In that moment, the boy opened his
eyes, reluctantly returning to reality and filled with curiosity, he asked the
shaman.
-What does that mean what
I've seen?-
-What did you see? -
High Cloud replied with kindness. -
-Do not you know? - He
asked in surprise. - You're the sorcerer.
- That was your vision,
not mine, tell me what you saw. - The old man asked again.
And
he did so with a tone of condescending cordiality. Diamond told him and then
Cloud High explained to him.
-That was your own
spirit, going back to childhood. The moment we are all innocent. Escaping the
darkness. Once he was trapped by negative feelings like anger and hatred, but
he managed to break free and raised you to a better conscience.
-It is true,- said his
interlocutor, - once I was dominated by evil, but I succeeded in redeeming it.
-My ancestors know.
They are pleased that your heart and spirit become noble again, they will help
you, - assured the Indian. -
-Were they the ones who
sang that song to me? - The boy asked.-
-Those were them, and
yours too. All those who have gone before you. Although in your case is a rare
thing. It's like they're not even here yet. And at the same time they are at
your side. - The shaman muttered. -
-Maybe it's because
I've traveled in time. – Guessed Diamond.-
-It can be.- High Cloud
conceded.-
-And that bird? Is it
me? -The boy was interested.-
-It's your totemic
animal, the Falcon. - In him are concentrated the virtues of clairvoyance and
the messages of the spirit. You can also have the memory of past lives. All
this will help you to overcome this hard test.
This
encouraged his pupil who decided to rely entirely on this strange old man. In
this way, a few days passed. Diamond learned to meditate and relax following
the teachings of the Shaman who now was surprised by the rapid progress of his
disciple. The young man was increasingly aware of that other reality. And his
guardian spirit seemed to give him more understanding every day. One afternoon,
after finishing the exercises, teacher and disciple talked and the apprentice
confessed him with lamentation.
- I feel guilty about
what happened to her. I was deceiving for that damned Wise Man and I did not
see him as he was, if I had been able to uncovered him before, none of this would have happened.
-You can see him now,
with his true essence,- said Cloud High, who rose up and made a fire, and after
a flick of it he sang a chant that was not the one that Diamond had heard in
his first session. The fire changed its color and turned like a bluish flame
while his teacher indicated to him. - Concentrate on him and look at his image.
The
prince concentrated and could see the image of the Wise Man, with his crystal
ball. He tried to feel his energy, he supposed it was something evil, but to
his surprise could not feel anything, absolutely nothing.
-I will not have
concentrated enough or made any mistake,- he said in surprise. -
-You have concentrated
well,- assured High Cloud. -
The
boy then felt a very powerful force trying to catch him. He tried to resist,
but he could not help being dragged. He seemed to go to the bonfire, enter it,
was about to do so but High Cloud touched him and he lost concentration. When
he realized and retreated some of that shock was sitting before the fire that
now burned normally.
-What happened? -
Diamond wanted to know in a broken voice, not yet coming out completely of that
impression and effort. -
- You have known the
authentic essence of the one who was your enemy. From what I've seen it was
very strong and evil. With the training you've had so far you're ready to feel
it but you still lack the power to face it. Never lose your peace of mind. When
you enter the dimension of the Hereafter, there will be many dark beings who
will try to steal your soul to take advantage of your light. You must not lose
your inner calm and your spiritual strength, that is the only thing that will
protect you ...
-Then I must train ...
I will increase my spiritual strength ... but, how will I? - commented the boy
with concern.-
- I'll help you. You
must meditate and always try to find the true nature of things. These are not
always what they seem or what they want to make you believe. Do not rely on the
apparent. Only in what your spirit can feel. Do not trust their promises. They
will surely do the impossible to weaken your determination. And remember. The
things that were it have already been.
Not even those that will eventually become, they cannot be changed. Fate has
traced them for some reason. - The sorcerer warned him.-
-Yes, it's a lesson I
learned when I failed to conquer Crystal Tokyo - he admitted. -
- There are many
worlds, all interconnected, many paths leading to multiple realities. The fine
balance among them should not be altered. You must be aware of that and always
remember it. Do not trust the promises of something simple. – His mentor advised
him in serious and serene tone.-
Diamond
nodded, thinking he understood what the wise old man meant. He strove to follow
the Chaman's instructions. He had let go of his somewhat haughty character and
instead of approaching training with sufficiency he did it ever more humbly.
His teacher perceived him immediately, and every time he smiled more
frequently, showing his approval. They spent several more days training their
body and spirit. Meditations, chants and all kinds of insights to know yourself
better. The boy could feel as if a whole new world of nuances and realities was
opening up. Now he seemed to have been blind and deaf to many things. Thus he
continued with increasing advances and at last, one night, the old man asked
his disciple with a tone of moderate satisfaction.
-Why is it so important
for you to rescue that girl?
His
pupil looked at him strangely. Now he suddenly did not understand what that
question was about. He went to answer just as he did to Landar, but for some
reason, he could not. Instead he was silent for a moment. His teacher did not
disturb him or insist again, and finally the boy could say, almost without being
himself who thought he was saying those words.
- Actually, I think
everyone has the right to be helped. She deserves a second chance to live. I do
not think her spirit was destined to this end. Somehow something is wrong. It
should not have been like this. At first she was not evil or selfish. She had
so much love inside her to offer. I want to give her the chance to light up the
world with her soul. - He nodded reflexively, almost as if he were coming out
of a trance. - If that is. The light of the world…
The
master nodded approvingly, even his gesture seemed to reflect a great deal of
respect for those words. So he explained to the boy.
- It was your spirit
that spoke. Your essence has felt its own. You have been able to see beyond the
earthly bonds that united you and have been able to look into the soul of that
woman.
- But how is it
possible? He asked visibly surprised. -
- I already told you.
When you have been able to look with the eyes of the spirit, you have seen
beyond appearance. At last I think you are ready ... I have taught you
everything I could, from now on the rest will depend on you. You must leave at
once.
The
sorcerer arranged a large bonfire, much larger than he had done before. Then he
scattered bags around them and emptied their contents, ritual buffalo bones and
other animals, plant seeds and paintings.
-I'm afraid this time
you are not going to cook macaroni, - said Diamond, trying to ease the tension he
felt as he tried to concentrate on the moment he'd been waiting for since his
arrival. - Too bad, they were very good.
-Now you must prepare
yourself for the journey - the Indian announced solemnly. -
His
pupil nodded and stripped off his jacket. High Cloud painted him. It took
almost a couple of hours, then he gave her a small pouch that hung around his
neck, and by midnight the old shaman declared.
- It's the right time.
Now you must not hesitate, do as I say...
He
clapped and the fire took on that bluish hue with platinum-colored flames, the
signal of its supernatural character. Diamond watched as a little cloud of
steam came out of it and danced around him, he stood on his guard, but High
Cloud reassured him...
-You must not fear,
they are the protective spirits of my ancestors who have come to help you pass.
Remember this, once you enter the spiritual dimension, it will be only the
strength of your soul that protects you and the woman you want to rescue. I
will also help you with the amulet I gave you. Keep in mind at all times that
you should not rely on your earthly senses, only in what your spirit sees, and
looks at things under the aspect of their authentic essence. When you see that
the sacred painting that covers your chest begins to erase come back
immediately, or else you will be trapped forever between those dimensions. Now,
start projecting your aura to pass through the fire...
-Through the fire? - Diamond
repeated almost like an idiot. - I'll burn! I feel the heat.
- Try to see through
your aura ... - It was the advice of High Cloud that had lit his ceremonial
pipe. - Remember, do not rely on the apparent.
The
boy concentrated on the way the shaman had taught him, a powerful white and
silver aura enveloped him and he could see a large hole instead of the bonfire.
It led to a place lit by an overhead light. High Cloud stirred the flames.
- You must pass now,
soon the effect of the spell will disappear ... when you hold your beloved I
will bring you back. But you will have to return to this same place, your soul
will guide you. Good luck and May the spirits of good and of your ancestors
accompany you.
- Thank you with all my
heart for everything you have taught me, master. - And the boy, this time
without hesitation, threw himself against the flames. -
Floating
in a vast expanse weakly illuminated by that overhead light Diamond tried to
orientate itself. He did not know where to go, everything seemed the same, and
he had no notion of above or below neither right nor left. He felt lost,
remembering the old man's words, he let his aura show him the way. He headed
for a kind of spiral that was coming down. He seemed to have neither direction
nor end. Around him began to condense forms similar to those he saw around the
bonfire but these were not white and vaporous, their tone varied between dark
gray and even black.
-They are souls without
rest! - He recalled, terrified. "The blacker they are, the more sinful
were their! I must keep my energy field strong or they will take mine.
He
increased the strength of his aura and recited some spells that the old man had
taught him. He could see how those little clouds resembled grotesque faces that
groaned non-stop. Even though his goose bumps and a continual shiver ran
through his body, Diamond did not faint. Some even spoke to him with shrill
screams or guttural tones, testing his determination.
-You will fail! - Go away!
-You will die! Flees!
-Emerald only fell into
evil because of your lack of love...
-She's already doomed
and she will drag you to hell ... Ha, ha, ha!
He made a deaf ear and
kept his concentration. He finally managed to get those clouds away from him.
After a time he could not pinpoint, he landed softly on a sort of muddy ground
coming up to a huge closed door that seemed impossible to open or knock down...
-Well, I've already
passed the first test - he said to himself, - I have to go now.
He
concentrated his spirit on the door and he could see huge jambs and a knob that
seemed forged in iron. He tried to grab it to open it, but his hand pierced it
like a reflection.
-Dammit! , I must
concentrate more.-
And
he did. After a few minutes at last he managed to make it tangible and could
turn it gently, then the door squeaks creaked and it opened. When he entered
the next room, the door closed behind him and disappeared. He was surrounded by
a greenish glow that flooded the room. He walked cautiously in anticipation of
new surprises, but paused as he heard his name spoken by a familiar voice.
-Emerald? Are you? - He
asked in a whisper of surprise and disbelief. -
- Diamond, I'm here,
come closer and you'll see me.
The
boy advanced slowly and from a mist formed a silhouette of a woman, finally
became very visible, it was Emerald! ... Dressed as he remembered and was very
beautiful. She was walking toward him, opening her arms to embrace him.
- Diamond, you came to
get me, how happy I am!
- Emerald finally I
have found you! ... - he exclaimed, quite glad to have found her so soon -...
-Get me out of here,
sweetheart! - She asked with a groan - in return I will do whatever you want.
She
came up to him and they hugged each other. Diamond felt her very cold, but he
thought it was because she was dead.
-When I take you to Earth,
you'll be back as before, - he said. -
- Yes and we will be
very happy. We will have unlimited pleasure. I will make you enjoy my love, as
you have never done, - affirmed the girl as her hands ran the body of Diamond.-
The
prince, however, noticed an unpleasant sensation and the way she had to speak
to him seemed very strange. It was curious, but he remembered that she had
never left the rigorous palace etiquette and treatment to address him.
- I do not get it. - He
thought, extremely bewildered. - I have found her but I do not feel well. Then
he remembered the old man's words. "They will try to deceive you." “Do
not trust your earthly senses”.
And
at that moment a female voice that she could not identify echoed in her head
with a warning tone.
- Watch out! That's not
the girl you're looking for.
- Who you are? -He
thought.-
And
he did it as if he could establish a kind of telepathic dialogue, which
surprisingly worked, when that anonymous voice answered.
- A friend of hers.
-Is something wrong? -
Emerald asked with concern. -
-We have to think of
escaping from here,- said Diamond after having assimilated that mental advice,
discretely withdrawing from her interlocutor. - As soon as possible.
-No problem, I know the
way, it's here,- said the girl who pointed to a corner. Immediately, out of
nowhere, a door, richly decorated with gold filigree, emerged. - Follow me my
love ... accompany me towards freedom...
Again, that mysterious
woman's voice in her mind. She also told him with warning tints.
-Do not let appearances
deceive you! - Do not see what you want to see, but what it is...
Then
he concentrated to see with the eyes of his spirit, and what he did not like
what they showed to him. The door that Emerald opened lead to an immense
bonfire, and when he turned his gaze to her, he saw that her beautiful face was
distorted and writhing until it acquired some repulsive features. Her hair now
looked like a nest of vipers, her arms like twisted branches. Diamond jumped
away as he yelled at her.
-Who are you? You are
not Emerald
-Of course I am! - She
laughs hysterically. - I'm the only one that looks like her that you're going
to have here, ha, ha, ha, ha - As she laughed, she adopted the physical form he
had visualized and with amazing speed she grabbed him from behind by squeezing
his neck to hiss. - I'm afraid you'll have to stay in Hell forever...
-I will not make you so
easy - said his opponent.
Although
he tried to break free of that grip that almost stopped him from breathing, but
it was useless, he began to lose his strength.
-Die you miserable
human! - The monster howled with obvious pleasure. -
The
boy tried to think of some solution. The brute force was useless, then he
concentrated on his spiritual aura and a reddish glow with silver flashes
illuminated him...
-What is that? - Cried
the horrid creature in surprise. -
Taking
advantage of her confusion, Diamond freed herself by nudging her, then turned
away quickly.
- I'm going to break up
with you! - He shouted, furious - you will regret having tried to deceive me...
"Nothing you can
do against me, you're just a miserable mortal! - It snapped the creature - Die
now! ...
And she launched in a
very fast way to attack, but his opponent this time dodged.
-Now it's my turn, - he
replied, moving at an astonishing rate, blocking his opponent's attack and
grabbing one of her arms by throwing her against the door she had left open. -
Goodbye, sweetie!
The
monster tried to cling to it so as not to fall into the flames, but Diamond
threw a ray of mystical energy into her. Grieving horrible screams the creature
fell burning in the fire instantly. The boy saw how that was reduced to ashes
and closed that door that disappeared.
-Good thing I got away!
- He sighed. -High Cloud you were right, I must be more prudent. Now I have to
get out of here...
Steering
through that greenish glow, Diamond concentrated himself looking for an exit.
At the end of that room, he saw an opening and headed toward it. He stepped
into the next place, an area of darkness with phosphorescent glows. Feeling
malignant presences, he surrounded himself with a mystical shield that allowed
him to advance by avoiding dozens of tentacles coming from the blackness ...
that narrow passage died in another door that he saw and opened. From the hand
of his perceptions he entered without hesitation, he found himself in a large
room that was very well lit, but there was waiting for him a huge demon who,
with his arms folded, seemed to guard the room.
-You're a mortal, I do
not know what you're doing here and how you got here, but you're not allowed to
go any further.
He
spoke in unison with his three heads, toad, cat, and human, staring at Diamond,
who did not panic in spite of that terrible aspect.
-I've killed demons
more terrible than you, - he replied with an arrogant smile. -You do not know
who you're getting into. - The boy replied, accumulating combat energy. But his
interlocutor did not seem surprised or impressed at all. - Get ready!
-You do not understand
anything about our world, human. - The demon declared that with a single
gesture of his fingers he threw his opponent against a wall. -
-How did you do it? - Inquired
the surprised Diamond. - I have not felt any change in your energy. Who are
you?
- I'm Bael ... I keep
this part of hell, I'm not like the demons you've known in your world. I belong
to the eighth infernal circle. You cannot touch me.
- We'll see that! - Diamond
exclaimed.-
Soon
he rushed toward him, trying to hit him again and again, but this being dodged
almost without seeming to move. After a few seconds and with obvious
exhaustion, the boy stopped panting.
-So, this way I will
not get anything, - he said to himself and gathered a ball of energy that he
threw at the demon. -
But
it was extinguished before it could even touch its target. Bael, with little
effort, grabbed his opponent by the throat, lifting him before he realized.
- Do not tire, I could
reduce you to ashes and stay your soul, since you dared to invade my domains.
But only this time will I allow you to return where you have come. - And saying
this, he let go of the astonished human who tried to catch his breath between
panting. - Go away!
-I do not know how
you've done it, you're certainly not like the other demons I've met, - said
Diamond, very impressed as he regained enough strength to rise. -Your power is
tremendous!
The
demon watched him as if he were looking at a young child who could not
understand something complicated and explained, even with patient tones and
dispassionate in his voice.
-Your calculations
based on earthly force are useless here. Those demons that seemed so terrible
to you are just slaves to me and my equals. I belong to the highest infernal
hierarchies and my power and that of my brothers is incomparably superior.
Besides, now you are on our land and here the power of any demon is much
greater than on Earth. - He declared the cat's head while the other two smiled.
–
-In spite of that, I
must continue, I have not come here to fight against you, or against any other
devil. Just to take me back to someone very dear to me, you cannot oppose that.
They told me that if I loved her I could save her, -said the prince who was
enlightened by his spiritual aura. -
-All right, - Bael
conceded, seeming to take on a much more gracious tone as he added. - That's
true. Your spirit is strong, you have what it takes to try, not only I will not
oppose but I will indicate the way. - Out of nowhere the demon made a narrow
door with golden flaps that opened with a gesture indicating the boy - Go ahead
without fear...
In
the background there was a golden glow that, of course, he invited to continue
even though his interlocutor had already learned his lesson.
-Excuse me, - Diamond
interrupted with a tone of sarcasm, telling him in turn. - It's not that I do
not trust you, but I'll choose my own way.
So,
concentrating his spirit, he also opened out of nowhere another door, rusty and
full of mold. It seemed not to have been used in many centuries, on the other
side only darkness was visible.
-You are making a
mistake, - replied the demon, -that which you have opened to nothing leads.-
-Do you want to bet? -
Replied the young man, smiling with complete confidence on his choice. -
The demon was overcome
and his door disappeared.
-You are cunning,
human, - the toad's head acknowledged approvingly. They have instructed you
well, no wonder you came to defeat the demons we sent to Earth. But, I have to
tell you something, and this time it's the truth. Much greater danger awaits
you behind that door. If you trespass it you cannot go back, now you have the opportunity
to go back where you came...
And
with a gesture of his hand made another door appear, this time it was a modest
wooden frame that let pass a zenith behind him.
- This is the gateway
to your world. There is no deception now. - That being assured him. - I give
you my word in the name of my Lord Satan.
The
young man could perceive that now he was telling the truth. More after that
oath. Though with conviction he insisted again to reply.
-I did not come here
for a party and I'm not going to come back if it's not with the person I came
looking for. I will continue my path and ... -However, his interlocutor had
already disappeared without letting him finish the sentence. - Of course, these
demons are all rude! - Diamond said aloud but could not help but wonder about
the power of that creature that vanished without him not even noticing. - Even
better than having to fight him...
But
he should not be distracted by such considerations. Time played against him. So
that without stopping to think twice, he entered and the other side he was
found among a forest of trees. They all resembled imposing centennial oaks.
Wandering about in a thick fog, Diamond tried to find his way to find a way
out. Then he felt that he was not alone. Something, some evil presences, or
rather many of them, approached him. He concentrated forming a defensive shield
with his spiritual strength ... but he felt rather weak. Almost without
realizing it, many hooded figures gathered. They looked almost like twins of
the Wise Man. They did not show any faces or say anything. Diamond felt his
strength leave him for a moment. He had to resist, those creatures swirled
around him and seemed to feed on his energy.
-If I do not get out of
here I'll be lost! - He thought with growing alarm as he struggled to keep
moving. - My shield will yield soon, I must escape and fast! Courage, I must
continue! He encouraged himself. -
Those
beings were stealing more and more energy from him, then he remembered the
amulet that the Shaman gave him, seizing it with one hand raised and invoked.
-I resort to your
power, amulet, get me out of here! - He declared urgently. -
The
bag began to shine ... those beings seemed to be repelled somehow, Diamond
noticed as part of their energies returned to him. He ran as fast as he could
to get away from these beings. He stopped believing that he was far enough away...
- Now I must concentrate
to find the exit of this site. - He sought with his spirit the way to get him
out of there. -
Again
he noticed that he was losing strength, these beings were once again
approaching him. The bag no longer shone, the amulet seemed to have lost its
power.
"-Come on, come
on, damn it! - Diamond muttered, finding
nothing, and those creatures were getting closer. Although, he knew how to calm
himself enough and said, - If I get nervous, I will not make it. I must not
think of anything.
He
tried trying to relax, at last that tactic paid off and saw an exit, a kind of
portal materialized from the trees. The creatures were almost on him. Without
hesitating he jumped to whatever was behind that door, he had no choice. He
managed to cross and fell on a hard, smooth floor. As he stood up and looked
around, he froze in surprise.
-It cannot be!" He
exclaimed, looking surprised. - It's my palace!
He
was in the hall of his throne of Nemesis ... he could not believe it. Absorbed
in the contemplation of all this he heard a familiar voice addressing him.
- Diamond ... Have you
finally come back? ...
- Father, are you? ...
Next to the young man
appeared his father, the king Coraíon that looked to him of severe form.
-Why? Why did you let
the Wise Man murder us all? Why were not you able to find out before? - He
blamed him with an accusing finger - You were to blame for the fall of our
kingdom!
-That's not true, -
defended Diamond, claiming. - Father, the Wise Man deceived us all, also you,
we could do nothing....
-You have disappointed
me," said Coraíon, adding inflexibly. - You're not worthy of being my son...
-Do not tell me that
father! - Replied his son, overcome by emotion. - I beg you ... I could not do
more than I did, I swear!
-Why did not you come and
see me? - Asked the voice of a woman in white robes that matched her morbid
countenance. - You did not care that I died, did you? - I am here, suffering
eternally because of you...
-Mother? Mother! -
muttered the thus accused without being able to believe it to retort with
despair. - They did not let me do it, it was the Wise Man's fault....
-You should have stayed
with me ... you do not know what made me suffer your absence, - replied his
mother without ceasing to cry.- Look at me, the condition I am in, it's all
your fault!
- You sentenced all
those who loved you. The figure of his father added with a tone full of anger
and reproach. - You led us all to the eternal death and damnation.
-No, no, nooo! -
Diamond was crying, putting his hands to his head, this cannot be true ... it
is not ... - and as a lifeline in the middle of nowhere, High Cloud's words
sounded again in his mind - "-They will try to deceive you and manipulate
you in any way, maybe even using your deepest fears and reproaches”. “Do not
listen to them, just trust in your spirit.” None of this is true, - he argued
now in a strong voice -" my parents would never have gone to hell. This is
only the projections of my remorse and my sense of guilt. I will not let you
deceive me. You are not my parents ... who are you?
Neither
of them answered. Little by little both silhouettes disappeared as did the
decoration of the palace. Instead, he was surrounded by a cave carved in rock,
next to him, another being of human appearance and bronzing complexion, dressed
in an ocher robe that looked at him with a strangely serene gesture from his
imposing height.
- Congratulations
human, you are very skillful, is not easy but you have managed to circumvent my
suggestion ... - praised the demon with a half-smile of fun. -
-Who are you? - Diamond
asked in a tone of awe. - Why did you do this to me?
- I am Mirion, I belong
to the highest of the eighth hellish hierarchy and I am an emissary of the
great circle. I had to do this to prove your determination.
-Emissary? Then you
came to tell me something? - The demon did not answer. - Well, I suppose it's
not worth it if I try to fight you, I would not stand any chance. - But at
least say what you want from me.
- I am here with power
to offer you great goods - said that being. -
-The only thing that
interests me is that you tell me where is the woman I came for, - said the boy.
-
- What do you want of a
simple woman, when you can have them all? I can take you before the powerful of
the ninth hierarchy. The great nine can give you anything you ask for. They
will grant you your most hidden desires. Do not you wish to be a great prince
again? Diamond, Prince of Nemesis. We can grant you kingdoms and riches without
equal. All the women you want. The most hidden secrets and mysteries will be
revealed to you. You would be the most powerful prince who ever lived. You
could even become Emperor of the Solar System.
And
as a sample, he again generated the image of the palace that Diamond had just
seen, the place of his birth Nemesis. In the meantime arguing with clear
cordiality.
-And now it would be
for real. I have the power to send you back in time, or forward, as you prefer.
So that you become the ruler of your world again. I can send you as far as you
want. Would not you like to return to your world and avoid the deaths of your
parents? Can you conquer the Silver Millennium in anticipation of the tactics
of Queen Serenity and King Endymion? Think about it. You would not have to
rescue Emerald. She would be alive and in the palace, waiting for you, along
with your parents, your brother and the rest of your clan. All alive, all at
your service once more.
Diamond
remained silent for a few seconds after the demon had finished his bid, seemed
to be fighting inside. He thought about that. If it were really possible,
change the fate so cruel that his family suffered and ... then, as if it were a
flash, he remembered the words of High Cloud. At once he smiled with disdain
and replied.
-It sounds all very
nice, but I'm not interested.
- I mean it, - insisted
Mirion - we can give you all that and anything else you ask. You deserve a
reward for your value and your delivery. Few dare to get here. In fact, no one
has ever come to where you are. Look carefully at what I offer you and think
better.
The
demon lifted one of his arms and immediately Diamond was surrounded by
mountains of gold and jewels that glittered with a blinding glow, as he had
never seen. Fabrics of the richest were scattered around him, the demon took
some and wrapped them, then made them flutter so that Diamond appreciated all
its beauty. He clutched a jeweled sword with a black blade that swung against a
rock dividing the stone into two as if it were butter.
-It's infernal steel -
explained Mirion, -forged by our best gunsmiths at the beginning of time. Take
it! Is a gift, if you do not accept the glory or recover your kingdom at least
choose what you want and then return in peace to your world.
- Look, I appreciate
the compliments and the gifts and all that. - Answered Diamond in a tired
voice. - But I know that what has already happened should not be changed. The
balance is very delicate and all this is due to a principle. I just want to
free the one who still has a chance. Because I think her destiny was vilely
manipulated. So do not bother but I'd appreciate it if you told me where to
find Emerald. I want to get her out of here and start a life together in which
we win our future with effort. The rest of gifts, riches and other presents,
you can keep them.
With
another gesture of his arms, the demon made all that disappear ... he smiled,
in what seemed a gesture of courtesy and even friendly character.
- I understand why they
chose you. Okay, if that's what you want. - He opened his arms into a large
black hole that grew up enveloping both of them. -
Diamond
and her host were now surrounded by a thick blackness in which all the laments
were heard.
-Remember all that I
have offered you, - warned Mirion, -that is what you have despised and this is
what you have chosen, I have nothing else to tell you...
- Wait a minute. -
Asked the boy to understand that the demon was going to disappear - one
question ... why so much generosity? You could have destroyed me just by moving
a finger, both you and the other devil. Why do you offer me gifts to go away
rather than eliminate me?
-That is something that
is above your understanding and even mine - replied that being with surprising
sincerity to sentence. - I only take orders that I receive. And here we do not
have custom to disobey those that our superiors command us, now I must leave
you. - And the demon disappeared before Diamond could answer. -
Now the boy was only in the middle of
all that dark emptiness only filled with infinite despair. He also felt a
slight tingling in his chest, looked at himself and discovered with horror that
the painting was beginning to erase, he had very little time left, he would
have to hurry or he would be trapped forever!
-How shall I do it? - He
thought on the verge of despair. - How can I call her to listen to me? - And as
a vital oxygen balloon, the words of the Shaman resounded again in his mind. - When
you come to the place of the damned you must offer her your light, and draw her
to you with the memory of some special moment that you lived together.
Diamond
struggled to remember a special moment with Emerald. The truth is that he could
not think of any. He tried to squeeze his mind until he realized he had to let
his memory flow, at last he remembered in Nemesis...
-Yes ... how could I
forget? ... That time. - He smiled wistfully.-
The
young man was preparing his luggage for a trip to Earth, he was finalizing his
things. At last he decided to go for a walk to say goodbye to his place of
birth. He was walking in the gardens when he felt someone coming in. When he
turned, he smiled, recognizing the girl, and she smiled back at him in a
radiant and embarrassed way.
- Hi Emerald. What do
you want? ...
-Good morning, my
prince, - she greeted a little sheepishly, bowing slightly as she swung
gracefully at her long, wavy green mane, - I would like to congratulate you on
your onomastics.
-You're very kind and
the few people who have remembered today. - He smiled gratefully at the
gesture. -
- I also wanted to give
you this. - Emerald said taking out a small bag very richly decorated. She
handed it to the prince who looked at her curiously. - They are jasmine seeds,-
explained the girl timidly, - so that you can plant them in your garden.-
- Thank you, they are
my favorite flowers How did you know? ... – he thought for a moment and guessed
with a smile. - Of course, my mother. - The girl blushed slightly as she looked
away. -
- I hope you grow some
pretty jasmine flowers so you can suck their aroma and so you remember a little
of me.
- Thank you very much
really. It was a nice touch, I'll tell the real gardener to plant them right
away. Right in my window, so I can smell it every morning when I wake up and
think of you. - He smiled. -
- It would be a great
honor for me, you make me very happy, my prince .- She stammered almost unable
to speak for the emotion. -
- This is the best
thing that has happened to me in a long time. - Confessed Diamond added
something depressed. - My mother is sick, my father very restless and he has
ordered me to go as ambassador to Earth, I must speak with Queen Serenity.
- Do not worry, I will
take care of your mother and she will be well again. I promise you,- Emerald
assured her. - I will not depart from her side until you return from that great
responsibility which the king entrusts to you.
-The truth, - sighed
Diamond. - These orders have been passed on to me by the Wise Man. He says that all our misfortunes come from
Earth, that we must demand that they allow us to return, I do not know. Maybe
that planet is to blame for all our ills. I hope not, and that I can convince
King Endymion and Queen Serenity to put away that attitude of animosity towards
our world.
- I'm sure you will get
it ... I totally trust you - encouraged him her interlocutor -
-That's very important
to me, thank you.- The boy said with better aim. -
Emerald
smiled very happily, Diamond engraved that smile on her memories, now he was
looking around again in that black depth of pain. He still listened to those
discouraging voices, but between them he heard one that was familiar. That
voice called to him. He thought he recognized hers among the sea of
high-pitched voices. He went to the source from which the call came. With all
his senses and his perception alert wanting not to fall into another trap, he
advanced. However, when he reached the place where he thought he heard the
voice, he saw no one. He tried once more to look with his soul. Little by
little a spectral silhouette was drawn before him, this one took shape until it
was a clear body, just like the features of her face. It was Emerald, in whose
face there was a great suffering that now appeared to be relieved to look into
Diamond's eyes. She looked at him with a mixture of joy, disbelief and deep
sorrow. She wore a tunic of almost white color, which meant that she was close
to transcending into Eternity. She spoke her name again, and Diamond felt the
same farewell sensation she experienced in Nemesis, so long ago, at the very
moment of the girl's death. When he heard her call inside him like a whisper.
-Emerald, is that you?-
And looking at her with his soul, he realized that this time it was her indeed.
He watched the youthful face of the girl who gave him the jasmine seeds. -Yes,
you are,- he said cheerfully, though not the enthusiasm he had imagined for the
occasion. - I've finally found you.
-Oh Prince Diamond! - ,So
you have also fallen into the abyss. - She regretted adding, full of
consternation - How sorry I am, what a wrong life we had! And now we have to
pay for it.
-No, no. - He smiled
reassuringly to reveal with encouraging tone. - I came here to take you with
me. I am alive! , The Wise One killed me, but I resurrected and fought against
the forces of evil together with Sapphire and other brave friends, we fought on
the side of the warriors of justice and we won.
-That is wonderful! - She
smiled shyly, but then she returned to her gloomy face as she remembered with a
guilty feeling. - I died fighting the warriors, I had so much hate inside me
that I fell in this well. My soul has suffered so much! ... it has been washed
in torrents of fire and now that I know what I did, remorse and grief anchor me
. I am at this level of consciousness, lost along with other souls in my same
situation. I met the soul of another girl in a case similar to mine. She died
with great guilt over her and loved a man who did not correspond her love. She
also fell fighting the warriors although, like me, he was killed by one of her
own.
-What's the girl's
name?
- Kaori ...
Diamond
then remembered, the voice of a woman to help him at the beginning of his
adventure and so he told his interlocutor.
- She was trying to
help you, we promised that the one would help the other if it was possible. She
came later, she still has more time than I to be here and she is closer to the
underworld.- Emerald told him.-
-I'll tell the Sailors
as soon as I see them. No, we'll tell the two of us together. - Diamond
corrected trying to cheer her up. -
-Do you really mean it?
- Emerald asked as a broad smile creased on the girl's face, but it did not
last long either, she objected. - But my prince, you cannot do it. It is
already a miracle that you are here. Only the love you give me now could save
me, but I have so little time left.
- I love you, now I
know, It took time for me to realize about
that but I was blind, and now I remember you as the innocent and charming young
lady who arrived at the court of my father, - declared Diamond. -
- I have perceived your
memories and for that reason I called you, you are the first light that I have
felt after so much time in darkness. - Confessed her to him with visible
gratitude and sadness at the same time. -
Diamond
tried to hold her, but his hands went through Emerald, he stared at her with a
look of surprise and confusion.
-Of course, - she
explained, - I am only a spirit. You are still a material being.
-I will not give up, -
he said, trying again without luck. -
-My prince is useless,
too late for me. Go back to the world and find some girl who deserves your
love. I only ask you to pray for my soul, - she whispered as she walked away,
her robe becoming progressively whiter, making her doom. - I'll have to go soon...
-No, I have not come
here overcoming all sorts of difficulties to lose you now! If you really love
me or have ever wanted me to make an effort, please! - Asked Diamond, who
indicated. -Focus as I do and you can touch me, it's up to you! I cannot do
more.
-I am not worthy of
you! - Emerald sobbed - nor of your love, I did terrible things. You are a
good-hearted man. You deserve someone much better than me.
Tears
streamed down her cheeks, it was strange to see a spirit cry, and Diamond had
not thought it possible.
- I love you, for you I
have crossed the hells. I have had to overcome terrible tests and I have come
face to face with very powerful demons. Much more than those who tried to
conquer Earth. And I would do it again without a second thought. Please, do not
make it all in vain. Do not give up! - He asked her with much emphasis as he
reached for her. - You must return to innocence ... with me. We must do it
together! ...
-I'll try, - said the
girl, who held out a trembling hand but could not touch Diamond. - I cannot,
it's impossible! - She cried desperately. -
- If I have meant anything
for you in all these years, try again! - cried he trying to infuse her, he
realized that the painting of his chest was erased quickly, they had very
little time. - Please!
Emerald
struggled to concentrate. Diamond encouraged her with all his heart, but it
seemed useless, at last when they were about to lose all hope, they felt the
slight touch of the other's fingers.
-We're going to get it,
come on, my love! - Diamond euphoric cried. -
She
smiled again hopefully, this made her tangible, at last the boy could hold her
in his arms, it was something very emotive. But he quickly recovered, returning
to reality.
- Now we have to get
out of here. Let's go there! He concentrated his aura on him and Emerald
enveloping both of them with her, thanks to which he could move. - We'll go
back together, no time to waste! Come on High Cloud, show me the way. - He
thought of his mentor and projected his energy.-
The
shaman was following in the trance the evolutions of his pupil, when receiving
his signal, he opened a passage between the flames. Then Diamond could see a
whirlwind, this time ascending, it was the way out. Next to Emerald began to
climb by him. The painting on him was still erasing, and her tunic was practically
immaculate. The boy tried to accelerate. They ascended unceasingly and could
see the progressive change of color of their surroundings, of the most absolute
darkness passed to the overhead plane that Diamond saw when crossing the
flames. He knew that it was the threshold, the border region, the boundary
between the dimensions of the Earth, Hell, Purgatory and the upper celestial
region. Around them spheres of light of greater or lesser brilliance
circulated, it was the only place where more and less evolved souls could
coincide. The brightest rose to higher planes, the others waited for their
opportunity. There were dark forms falling into the underworld to be purified.
Then Emerald felt something begin to pull at her.
-Prince Diamond, I
notice that they call me,- she said worriedly. -
- You have to endure, I
will communicate with Cloud High again and he will make us return. - The boy
asked him, trying to go as fast as he could. -
- It is getting
stronger, it drags me and I cannot resist! - She added in anguish.-
The
boy began to notice how invisible hands were pulling Emerald, every time they
did it with more strength, despite the aura of protection he emitted.
-Try to ignore that
feeling. - The boy asked.
The
shaman again listened to his pupil and began to chant ritual songs. The boy
could see in the twilight horizon a dim light, it was the guide to the mortal
world.
-There we go,- said
Diamond, -we shall soon be out of here.
-I ... I do not think I
can make it, - she whispered quietly as she declared, - something very powerful
pulls me.
The truth is that every
time was less compact, his savior could barely catch her...
-Fight, you have to
fight, Emerald, come on! - He urged her. -
But
she was intangible again. Her tears rolled down her face. Yet she tried to
smile gratefully at Diamond. Then, a very short distance appeared a strong
light in front of them. It was far more powerful than the dim light they were
heading for. Already resigned to her fate, Emerald whose hair had turned white,
told the boy in the sweetest tone she could find.
- My lord and my love,
come back to life, you have tried and I will thank you for all eternity. But
this is much more powerful than us, it calls me and I must go with him. I love
you, I will always love you and watch over you from the other world.
-No, I will not permit
it! - Stammered Diamond, adding decisively. - I'll fight all the hell's demons
if need be, but I will not let you go!
At
that moment a soft, sweet voice, as he had never heard before, sounded behind
him. When the young man looked, he was startled, it was a great being of light
beating ethereal wings and with a great flamboyant halo on his head. Suddenly
he mutated his appearance. He was dressed in a dark robe. It was something
really awesome. There was such a power that the boy shivered. He could not meet
his gaze to that apparition.
- Thu. Who are you? -
The boy could say with a hint of voice. -
That
being seemed to look at him with a mixture of severity and tenderness. He spoke
but the lips of his stony face did not move, however Diamond and Emerald could
hear him very well.
- I am Azrael, the
Messenger of the One. You should not be afraid to me, since you will come also
someday with me.
- You are the Angel of
Death! - Diamond stammered in a trembling voice, filled with a supernatural
fear that went beyond his own understanding. - In Heaven ... they told me about
you ...
- That's what you call
me humans, but calm down. I did not come for you, but for her. Emerald. You
have to accompany me.
- I beg you, give her
another chance! I've come here for her, I will not leave without taking her
with me. -The boy replied, gathering all his courage. -
-That is not in my
hand,- replied Azrael, shaking his head to add. - I'm just a messenger, I told
you.
-How do you differ from
those demons then? You are just as cruel and you do not care about our feelings
at all, - he said, full of anger and frustration. -Answer back!
-Do not be angry with
me, - replied the angel very softly as he explained in a paternal way. -You do
not understand how far our love for you is, it's a lot greater than human love.
Ours transcends the flesh and the mind. We have loved you for many lives and
reincarnations. Do not be angry, young prince, I only do my duty. You have been
very brave to arrive here and that proves a great human love. However that cannot
be compared to Love with capital letters. Answer me to this. Can you give Emerald
an eternal and imperishable love by being next the Creator?
- No I cannot.- He
admitted, his head bowed and filled with consternation.-
- Then you know that it
is right so be it. - Said the angel. -
-Take me with you,
too,- he declared resolutely, staring at his chest, the painting already gone,
and he said so. - Anyway, I'll never be able to return to my world ... At least
we'll be together.
-Not my prince. Do not
do that for me. -She asked.-
-Now that I've realized
how stupid I was, I do not want to lose you.- The young man was able to say,
dropping a few tears. - Not for the second time...
Azrael
then looked at Diamond again feeling that he could not stand that look. The
angel, knowing this, lowered his gaze to the human's chest that felt a tickle.
Looking at him again he saw the painting again.
- That cannot be. Your
time has not yet come ... - replied the angel without flinching - ... you must
go already...
- But I want to be with
her - begged Diamond who felt a deep pain in his heart - please!
-My prince,- Emerald
said with a great deal of tenderness. - I love you so much that I cannot bear seeing
you doing more harm to yourself, you must go. I would like to stay with you,
too, but it cannot be. The angel is right. - Azrael drew Emerald to herself and
Diamond couldn´t do anything. The Angel wrapped her in his luminous arms while
she said. -I must leave you my love. I feel Eternity so close and it is
something so wonderful, but in spite of it, I wish I could postpone it a little
to live a whole life next to you! ...
-You'll soon see each
other again,- said the angel, who smiled at Diamond in such a way that he was
seized by a warm sensation. Even without looking directly into his face, he
felt that sign of divine love and was unable to reply when he heard Azrael say.
- Go and return to your life, forget this until your moment arrives.
And
the angel walked away with Emerald but Diamond managed to scream.
-Please, wait just one
more moment ... just let me touch her for the last time!
Azrael
approached again and allowed a last touch of their hands, both looked at each
other intensely and then, the angel moved away with Emerald into the bright
light of Eternity with the echo of the last goodbye of her resonating in the
mind of the boy.
-Goodbye my dear Prince
Diamond. I will always love you...
The
young man was in shock. It was hard for him to recover from all those
sensations that were struggling inside him trying to dominate him. The ecstasy
of being so close to Eternity, pain and rage at the loss of Emerald when he was
so close. Sadness and joy at the same time by her that would enter Paradise. At
last he reacted by turning to the faint light that Cloud High had sent for him.
He stepped inside her and before passing through, he took one last look at a
hooded figure in a long black sash that held a large book. He seemed to take
notes of something. Surely it would be that angel scoring him again among the
living. He could not perceive any more, abruptly felt a kind of reentry falling
to the ground. He appeared beside the Shaman beside the blazing fire that
burned mightily. Once recovered partly from the impression and seeing himself
there again, he became aware of everything that had happened.
-I lost her! -He sobbed
bitterly. - I had her hugged me, we almost got it, but I lost it! Dammit!
He
struck the ground with strength and rage making it tremble, but the physical,
psychic, and above all, spiritual weariness that he carried with him,
overwhelmed him.
-You must rest now, -
the shaman declared to the boy who collapsed, losing consciousness. -You did well...
But
Diamond could not see that a naked female figure lay beside him. Although she
vanished in a few moments, leaving even for a few moments the memory of her
reddish hair after muttering a monosyllable that the Indian could hear...
-Tau...
Surprised
by that apparition Cloud High looked at her without saying anything ... just
crossed his legs and looked up to heaven for the guidance of his ancestors.
Then he stirred the flames...
An
instant before in the world of the living happened all that, in the twilight
zone Emerald embraced Azrael, she felt increasingly lighter. The angel carried
her through a corridor that was illuminating with an immaculate light. A
feeling of increasing happiness approached her but she could not stop thinking
about Diamond. Azrael stopped and looked at her very gently as his appearance
returned to that of that flaming and brilliant being with several pairs of
wings.
- I notice that your
soul is not yet totally happy, what is the matter? Does something oppress you?
You must not be afraid of me.
- No, it is not because
of that, I believed that the Angel of Death would be the image of terror.
Something like the Wise Man, he said to come from the Death Phantom. But you do
not look anything like him, -retorted Emerald in surprise. - Even if you had
previously adopted a similar form.
- You're right. We have
nothing to do, he is an envoy of Nothing, I represent the Creator. The death
that he represents is indeed Death, forgetfulness, indifference. I instead
represent Love and Truth. My mission is to accompany the souls in their
transcendence towards the Light and the knowledge ... - Explained the
interpellated.-
-I know you take me to
a wonderful place, full of peace and love, but even so, I would have wanted so
much to have known mortal love, to be a woman and to form a family with the man
I loved, - she sighed. Adding also sadly. - As the girl I've met here. Poor
Kaori did not have that opportunity either. Even Rubeus died because of me. I'm
so sorry.
As
if a movie was about the young woman's mind returned their past adventures.
Concluding with her transformation into that monstrous dragon that was
destroyed by Sailor Moon. Then she remembered to shout as she fell into a
bottomless pit full of blackness.
-Help! Prince Diamond,
save me! ...
As
she fell with her female form, a nebula covered her, she could barely mumble
for the last time...
-Diamond…
Then
she found herself on a muddy boulder, her beautiful dress had been replaced by
a dark gray robe that was stained and torn. Her boots were gone and she was
barefoot. But the worst thing for her was to notice that her long, clean,
light-green hair had gone gray in a grayish tint and was limp. And if this was
not enough, with no time to recover from that shock, around her only heard
moans and howls of pain.
-Where am I? - She said
loudly as she hugged herself as if she wanted to protect herself. -
And
those cries burst out laughing. Some came up to her and seemed to strike her.
They were sounds of shrill laughter and mockery. Emerald wanted to get out of
there, she ran without stopping but those echoes did not stop. They were even
worse with the appearance of some voices that rejoiced harassing her.
-Ha,
ha, ha! - Damn whore ...
-ha, ha ... foolish and
stupid girl...
-You never had enough
worth to love a prince ... and less one like Diamond...
-You just crawled like
a worm ... before him ... Ha, ha...
-What a shame for your
parents!
-Even your mother died
because of you ... after having begotten you...
She scrambled then
looking in all directions in anger and spitting furiously.
-Stop, shut up! Leave me alone…
However,
the laughter was increasing and she felt a tremendous slap on the right cheek
that almost knocked her down.
-This is what you
deserve, bitch! - Exclaimed a guttural and mocking voice.-
-You're going to start
paying for your iniquities ... - Another sneered.-
The
girl tried to cover herself desperately but now she was beaten mercilessly
everywhere. She even screamed in pain, feeling as if invisible claws were
scratching her. He touched her face in fear, noticing how the blood flowed
through some cuts...
-Please, please! - She
pleaded, filled with anguish and fear.-
-We have just started,
- hissed another voice amid menacing and full of rejoicing. - Prepare to suffer
your eternal punishment...
Horrified,
the girl ran once more aimlessly. She did not know what else she could do. Her
whole body ached. At last she saw a light that offered her hope. She entered a
park, it was like any ordinary place on Earth, and even Nemesis. Some lamps
illuminated the night. Trees lined the sides of the earthy road that now passed
walking after stopping running. Panting, she saw a wooden bench...
-I cannot take any
more. - She said, trying to catch her breath. -I need to rest...
She
sat down then trying to recapitulate ... All that had happened was that damned
Wise Man fault. Before losing consciousness and waking up in this terrible
place she discovered that he had deceived her. However, she always knew it but she
wanted to use it to win the heart of the prince...
-I was a fool, - she
lamented now. - I should never have trusted him. We should never have done it
... It was he who made use of us. And now Diamond is in danger.
But
she could not finish her disquisitions. From the sides of that bench came two
arms, clawed in claws that gripped her waist. Despite trying to get up and flee
that had tremendous strength. She struggled trying to break free, but it was
useless. And again those voices of nightmare besieged her affirming with ironic
rejoicing...
-Ha,
ha, ha! Enjoy your rest...
-Who are you? What do
you want from me? - She cried, trying again to free herself unsuccessfully.-
-We are the voices of
all those innocents that you have damaged.- They answered sarcastically.- Now
you will pay for all eternity ...
And
those claws ran through her even reaching her intimate parts, she screamed and
cried but it was like feeling outraged in the most lacerating way without being
able to do anything to avoid it. Crowds of cuts opened in her body and impotent
she could only see her own blood sprout...
-Please! - She groaned
and sobbed in pain and utter horror. - I'm sorry, I'm sorry for everything I did...
-That's not enough. -
Those voices that almost seemed to breathe next to her ears and the back of her
head gasped around her. - It will never be enough for you...
Desperate
and concentrating what was left of her diminished strength, the girl held those
claws and tried to separate them from her body. After she uttered a cry of
rage, she succeeded. She was dismissed, falling to the ground once more. Now
she could see with her eyes flooded with tears and full of panic as those trees
took on the appearance of nightmare beings, anthropomorphic forms with huge erect
limbs that surrounded her.
-Stop, get away from
me! -She snapped, looking in all directions.
And
with the only weapon of her desperation she struck one of them by knocking him
down. She was able to run once more, though now the ground began to open beneath
her feet and skeletal hands sprouted that tried to cling to her ankles. Forcing
herself not to look, Emerald ran until she finally left the place. To her
astonishment and without any transition she was now in the middle of a great hall...
-What is this? - She
said in astonishment as she gasped in a frenzy, trying to recover.-
At
last she recognized it. It was the great hall of the palace of Nemesis. There
appeared a multitude of elegantly dressed figures, handsome boys and girls
dancing around them. She could watch in amazement as a young woman with long
blond hair danced with a handsome boy with auburn hair.
-I know them. - She
whispered, still looking at them. - Somehow I know who they are ... Dad. - She
could say.
However
these couples and many others were running along the track without seeming to
see her. It was more some that she passed through them as if they were ghosts
... And she could see another detail. The blonde girl had a bulging belly. She
stopped breathing hard. Her partner then held her in his arms, asking her in
awe.
-Maray! – Are you
alright?…
-Yes. - She could
barely gasp at her, trying to gather strength to add. - I think she's coming
...
-Already? Now? -
Exclaimed her companion, adding in alarm.- I warned you that it was wiser not
to have come.
Amidst
the pain she was enduring, the young woman replied stiffly as other attendants
at the dance approached in astonishment.
-It was little prince
Sapphire’s birthday. We could not miss ...
Attracted
by the commotion, another woman with curly blond hair approached. Immediately
the rest of the people turned away bowing.
-What's wrong, are you
all right?
-My Majesty, - said the
man with concern. My wife has given birth.
-Come on! Take her to
my private quarters. Call the palace doctor. -She ordered quickly.
Emerald
opened her mouth now in amazement. This woman was the ruler of Nemesis! She was
much younger and much more beautiful.
-It's Queen Amethyst Nairía!
- She exclaimed in astonishment.-
As
she remembered it, she witnessed how several individuals carried the woman in
the private quarters of the queen. There the doctor came immediately to the
king who had in his arms a little boy of about three years, short platinum hair
and curious big eyes and violets.
-What's the matter? -
The sovereign wanted to know.-
-Majesty. This woman is
going to give birth. - One of his courtiers informed him.-
The
doctor asked for some space. There, lying on a couch, that poor girl gasped and
screamed. The stain of moisture on the green upholstery indicated that she had
already had started.
-Bring me hot water and
clean sheets.- Asked the doctor.-
-I will do it,-
declared the sovereign, leaving everyone in awe. - Remember that I have had
another child recently.
-Yes, we were just celebrating
his first birthday. - Her husband smiled adding. - Calm, honey, I'll help you.
In
the meantime, that type of reddish brown hair held the hand of the woman in
labor.
-It's going to be all
right, my love ...- He encouraged the troubled young woman. - Come on, Maray!
The
girl was livid. Emerald approached, looking at her intently and at the same
time with a strange feeling of excitement and joy. She did not know the time
that elapsed. Now it was as if everything was moving fast. At last the girl
screamed agonizingly as she began to push.
-I see the head, - the
doctor announced.-
-Everything goes well,
my love ... pushes just a little more. - His husband asked to that young woman.-
-You are doing it very
well. - The sovereign encouraged her smiling encouragingly and proposing to the
grateful girl. - When your baby is born we can put her in a crib next to my
Sapphire. If his older brother Diamond does not get angry...
In
the meantime, almost inadvertently, that little boy approached the head of the
sofa. He was looking at the woman who was shouting with wide eyes. And that
seemed to work a small miracle. That girl stopped screaming and smiled looking
at the boy, he returned the smile and then the doctor exclaimed.
-It is done!
And
raising a small shape showed it up. Holding her by a tiny ankle and with her
head down a baby could be seen. The doctor immediately patted her on the bottom
and made her cry.
- Yes. It's a girl!
-A little girl born in
the emerald room.- The queen smiled, since that was the name of that room of
her private rooms.-
-Emerald, - whispered
the flushed and exhausted mother with a smile. - I really like that name ... Emerald
of the House of Green ... It's perfect for her.
The
aforementioned continued to cry at the top of her lungs and her other self-made
cried seeing her own birth and how the doctor cut the umbilical cord and
wrapped it in a little blanket after cleansing the remains of blood and
placenta. The tormented Emerald, now an adult, could only could cry with
emotion.
-It's me! Oh my God. My
parents ... and Queen Amethyst ... and Diamond were there ... he was always there...
Though
again they could hear those evil laughter filling the room. To the horror of
the girl, all that beautiful picture disappeared...
-Yes! - They laughed
and rebuked in turn. -Your mother died shortly afterwards, a victim of the
weakness that meant to bring you into the world...
-And for what? -
Another voice mocked. - You did not know how to take care of the queen who
helped in your birth. You did not even know how to protect her, or Prince
Diamond.
Emerald covered her
ears with both hands sobbing as she screamed in turn.
-That is not true. I
did everything I could! I was not to blame for that ... I do not accept it. Do
you hear me? - She shifted furiously and indignantly into the blackness that
surrounded her now. - I know I deserve to be punished for many things, but not
for this. I've mortified myself many times thinking about it ... and I cannot
take it anymore. Do you hear it? - She was crying now really sunken to remember
the tragic end of her family and their sovereigns.- I can resist no more ... -
She was kneeling on the
floor covering her face with both hands .- I cannot ... I wish I could change
everything ... but I cannot ...
She
expected some reply or more hurtful comments that sent her but everything was
silence. A faint reddish light now dimmed a sort of corridor. At the bottom of
it was a white door marked with a black five-pointed star...
-I guess it's no good
to try opening the door. Nevertheless, no matter what I do, they will surely
torment me again. -She sighed resignedly as she calmed down. - So, let’s go! I have nothing to lose…
So
stoically she advanced to the knob of the door and turned it. When she opened, she
entered a large white room that looked like a kind of laboratory. Crowd of test
pieces lined up in endless rows.
-What is this? - She
asked without understanding. - What has it to do with me?
Though
a woman's cry out of her thoughts, it came from the back of the room. Again
macabre laughter rumbled through that great room.
-Leave me alone! Damn! -
Exclaimed a young woman who seemed to be in trouble.-
Emerald
saw that girl run toward her, she was more or less her own height, in a robe
similar to hers. Or maybe darker. That long-haired girl tangled between red and
gray stopped in her flight when she saw her.
-Who are you? - She
snapped. Another of those damn Daemons who wants to torment me?
-No ... I do not know
what you're talking about.- Emerald could answered in bewilderment.-
The
other woman took a hostile pose, It appeared as she was going to attack Emerald
when the test tubes around them began to bubble.
-What's going on? - Emerald
wanted to know.-
-We have to get out of
here! - Urged that girl realizing that that woman with gray hair was as scared
and confused as she was.-
Her
companion looked puzzled, from these test tubes bubbled a pink liquid and
instantly began to sprout grotesque forms similar to the plasticine that grew
to conform anthropomorphic figures. They were laughing in a high-pitched,
voice, and they stretched out trying to catch them. One of them grabbed the
young woman with a cry of pain.
-Calm down, - Emerald
said then. - I'll help you ...
And
taking one of the broken essay tubes she struck that strange creature. The
being gave a shrill screech releasing its prey. Taking advantage of this
moment, both women ran to the front door...
-Let's go! - Said the
girl with reddish gray hair.-
-I try, but the door is
blocked,- replied her interlocutor who tried frantically to open it. - Damn!
An
ever-growing number of these strange beings were creeping up their legs. In
their heads formed a single eye and an opening like grotesque mouth sketched a
cruel and sadistic smile.
-They will annihilate
us! - Exclaimed the frightened young woman.-
-I wish it was like
that! - Emerald replied now with a more controlled tone.- I'm tired of running
away and wandering through this hell being punished over and over again...
Her
companion sighed and faced the look of her deep gray eyes with the brown ones of
that new arrival. Finally she nodded. Turning her back on the door, she smiled
slightly and introduced herself.
-Kaorinite.
-Emerald, - she said,
asserting not without sarcasm in spite of the complicated situation. - I would
like to say that it is a pleasure.
-Don't worry ... I
understand you pretty well.- Kaorinite respond with irony.-
Those
nightmarish beings were approaching and both girls supported each other to
welcome them. The first of these monsters to reach them were kicked in their
bellies. However, they doubled and fell like rubber ... The two of them had
problems getting their feet caught, caught by those reports of their
adversaries, without losing their balance. At last they succeeded by being
pushed back. Fortunately they fell on the door...
-If I had my powers, at
least for one more time,- Emerald lamented.-
-Powers? - Repeated her
interlocutor.-
-It's a long story.-
The former member of the Black Moon replied.-
-You can save it, I
think I understand you. - Affirmed her mate this time in a more genuine tone.-
Two
more of these beasts were coming up with a clatter. It was the Nemesis girl
herself who smiled now, muttering, not without an ironic sense of humor.
-And they said that my
laughter was horrible...
For
her part Kaorinite took another tube that threw against those beings. They
seemed to be affected, and they shrank back. A drop of liquid left in them
jumped against the door. To the surprise of both began to smoke out of this...
-I have an idea. - Emerald
said. -I need another test tube.
Her
partner managed to get one of the remaining ones without being destroyed.
Without hesitation she threw her contents against the door that began to
release an appreciable smoke. The two women looked at each other and...
-Are you thinking the
same as me? - Kaorinite asked.
Her
interlocutor nodded and with a more than remarkable coordination both turned
and kicked the door. At last, it jumped open. Without thinking twice they ran
away from there. Now a long, endless hall opened before them. After several
meters they stopped at last. Nothing seemed to follow them.
-We made it! - Sighed Emerald
leaning against the wall.-
However her newly
acquired companion grabbed her arm and warned her...
-Watch out! -
Exclaimed!
And
fortunately she was fast. A species of tentacles had sprouted trying to
imprison her unwary victim. They both fled again. At last, after what seemed an
eternity, they were able to leave that corridor. Suddenly and without notice it
at first, they found themselves in the middle of a vast sandy desert.
-This place is terrible,
- Emerald said. - I'm afraid we'll have to be escaping from danger to danger forever.
-Maybe that is our punishment.
- Her mate conjectured.-
Now
they began to walk under a scorching sun. No one knew for certain how long it
would have taken. They were exhausted and thirsty. With their throats scratched
and ready to faint....
-We cannot stop, -
Kaorinite assured.-
-Or what? - Replied Emerald
in a tone that shone with defiance as she screamed at that blue sky and that
hot sun. -Or we will be dead? ... I'm already dead, damn! I prefer to be dead
than this.
And
without further ado she took a seat on a rock that rose a few feet. Her
companion, shrugging, imitated her as she said.
-Thinking about it,
you're right.
And
a few moments passed in which no one spoke. It was finally Emerald who wanted
to know...
-Where did you come
from?
-From the star system
Tau Ceti,- replied her interlocutor. - And you?
-From the planet
Nemesis.
-I suppose we are both
strangers and we die in a strange world.-
Her companion deduced,- both in misfortune.
-Maybe that's why we've
met.- Emerald guessed.-
They
spent some time telling each other their stories. Then it was Kaorinite who
commented.
-I see we have many
things in common. Unrequited loves, premature deaths at the hands of our own
side.
-Yes, it's curious. In
the end, the sailors who were supposed to be our enemies did not kill us. -Emerald
added. - What's more, I think they even welcomed some of my comrades when they
left the fight.
-Then we were fools. -
Her companion smiled bitterly.-
-Indeed we were Kaorinite...
-Call me Kaori. - She
offered her, pleading even with humoristic
tone. -I sense you're going to be my only friend around here...
Emerald
smiled, that amused her. The irony of the affair was amusing. She nodded
slowly, her hands clasped together. Her companion then commented.
-You were right,
nothing happened to us.
-We're already in Hell
now. Nothing could happen to us worse .-
Argued her compatriot.- If they would kill us again maybe our misery could
stop, so they don’t intend to do that.
-And I deserve to be
here, - said the girl with reddish gray hair. - I did terrible things. The only
thing I did not regret was to fall in love with the doctor. It was a short time
but you know what? There were a few moments, when I was with him at home or
brought him coffee, in which I experienced the closest thing to happiness.
-I understand perfectly.
- Emerald agreed with a reflective tone. - It was the same to me, whenever I
was near Diamond. I wish I could go back and change all that!
-Yes, I would like that
too,- Kaori stated to declare. - I know it will not happen, but if I could
escape from here and have another chance ... I would act in a totally different
way. I would not be a heartless harpy.
-I´d try to change too.
- Agreed her companion stretched her legs a little.-
Then
she noticed the tunic she was wearing. She had sworn it was darker before. What
was more, in fact her shade of gray was much less dark than that of Kaorinite.
-This must mean something.
- She told her interlocutor.-
-It does not matter to
me. When I arrived here the tunic was black. Now it's changing color ...so what
-I hope it's a good
sign. In any case I do not know for sure. -Emerald sighed. - Thank God at least
I don´t have to wash it.
Kaorinite
laughed at that. It was a laugh that started almost like a hit and ended up
really being a big laugh. When she saw her, her companion in misfortunes joined
her. Almost without realizing they were hugging and laughing.
-Who has seen me before
and who sees me now! - Emerald said with those laughter of her that astonished
to her interlocutor.-
-Yes ... I can say the
same. - Kaori agreed. - At least my combat dress was more elegant than these
rags.
-It must be the fashion
of here.- Emerald tried to say while she was laughing.- They need advice
urgently about the wardrobe.
At
last the laughter subsided, now they both looked at their happy eyes, at least
they had found someone who shared the same situation. But not because they
solved in the suffering of the other but because precisely that it helped them
to support it in the security of which they would support each other. It was the
Tau's girl who commented already without laughing...
-Now I realize the
meaning of suffering. I guess that's the purpose of Hell. Make you pay
eternally for your bad deeds. And understand the harm you have done to others.
But at least now I have you.
-I also felt lonely and
desperate. It's not that things have improved a lot but it's nice to have
company.
Her
new friend nodded even though they had little time to talk anymore, in the
distance a fierce storm of approaching sand was rising.
-We'll have to move and
find some place covered in this, - Kaorinite declared.-
-Quickly. That storm is
coming. - Urged her fellow-woman, who almost with humor, laughed. - And I can
endure all the tortures of this damn place except for having dirty hair.
So
they got up and walked quickly, but that gale that carried large quantities of
sand soon gave them reach. Now they had to cover their face and walk with great
difficulty being whipped by those sandy grains that hit them all over the body
at great speed. Nor were they able to speak. Crouching their heads and covering
as they could with their arms they finally reached the entrance of a cave. They
entered trying to recover. Emerald could barely breathe. She felt exhausted,
tears streaming down her cheeks.
-This is unbearable! And we have to be like this for all eternity?
... We did not commit such serious faults ... please ... have mercy...
-Calm down. - Kaori
asked her softly. - Do not let yourself be defeated...
She
gently lifted her friend's chin with one of her hands and came up to wipe away
those tears. Emerald looked at her gratefully and smiled shyly. Not even
knowing why Kaorinite kissed her softly on the lips. Her stunned companion was
startled at first, but after a moment's hesitation she returned a deeper kiss.
The two embraces were dropped to the ground, their mouths joined as their
tongues played. Was it so strange? Perhaps no one had ever considered this
possibility of experimenting with another woman, but now the mere fact of being
able to share some human affection in that terrible and desolate place pushed
them into the other's arms. They continued kissing and running their partner's
body with desire using their hands in addition to their lips. At the end they
embraced naked and they remained for a long time without speaking. Emerald
finally sighed confessing...
-I do not know what
happened to me. I had never been attracted to another woman.
-I do not either, -
Kaori admitted, who could barely say ashamed and in a hurry. - And do not get
me wrong. It was beautiful. However I thought of someone else...
-Same I did. -Emerald
smiled, asserting with a mixture of melancholy and gratitude. - Maybe we cannot
have them. But we have each other.
The
storm had subsided outside. Kaorinite rose the first one putting on the tunic,
but soon apologized.
-I think I'm confused.
This is yours. -She stated at the light gray tone of it.-
Nevertheless,
Emerald had put the other one that was of an even clearer tone. The young woman
then seemed to have an inspiration in commenting.
-You were not mistaken,
Kaori. What happens is that they gradually become clearer. I do not know, it is
as if its color symbolized the state of our souls. The darker the greater
percentage of darkness they harbor. Now at least I feel better. It looks like a
huge weight had been lifted from me.
-It is true. I feel the
same feeling. - Her friend revealed to her.- That to give and receive love ...
even if it was in these circumstances ...
They
both blushed, or so she thought they saw each other in the other. They could
not help but smile as if they were a couple of teenagers. Still commenting on
that, they both left. But they were no longer in the middle of a desert. This
now seemed like a meadow. Herbs grew everywhere they looked...
-Let's see what
surprises await us here. - Said the young woman with the reddish gray hair,
which, curiously enough, had also begun to clarify.-
The
very hair of Emerald was now white for the most part. But it was not a color
that indicated old age ... The same girl was surprised by it.
-I was never a platinum
blonde. Maybe it's not a bad look! - She said with humor.-
Her
friend laughed with her and they continued the march. The overhead light that
surrounded them went off. Now, practically in the dark, they came to a clearing
where a strong wind was blowing...
-At least now there is
no sand,- Kaori stated. -
-Goodness! - Emerald
sighed. -
But then she thought
she heard something. A voice ... She could barely mumble.
-Diamond…
-Is something wrong? - Her
interlocutor asked her.-
-I would have sworn I
heard the voice of my prince.
The
wind picked up. To her surprise and fear even Emerald noticed that her tunic,
now of almost immaculate tonality, swelled up through the air and pulled her
upwards. Without realizing it she rose almost a couple of meters. Fortunately
her friend was able to hold her by one hand.
-What! - Exclaimed the
former member of the Black Moon.-
-I'll try to get you
down, - Kaorinite said in a tone that tried to sound calm despite feeling quite
bewildered. - Come on, hold my hand.
-I do not want to be
separated from you, you're the only good thing left for me! - Emerald moaned.-
-I do not want to lose
you either, you're the only friend I've ever had. - Kaorinite sobbed in turn,
asserting with visible pain. - This is a very cruel place, it gives you hope
and then It takes away from you. But I will not let you go ...
Nevertheless
and in spite of all her effort Kaori soon was unable to hold to her companion.
Their hands became intangible, and Emerald began to rise into the darkness. The
girl screamed as she climbed ...
-I'll find you ...
We'll be together again ... I will not forget you, Kaorinite ... If I manage to
escape I will not miss our promise. I will help you and I will not abandon you.
-I do not want to
forget you either,- she assured Emerald now looking up without being able to
see anything. -I hope you're lucky and you can get out of here.
-My dear friend ...- Emerald
sobbed into that dark darkness.- See you soon, take care ... Kaori.
But
Diamond's voice echoed once more. It was when in the distance she saw an
intense white light and tried to approach her. That glow attracted her and then
she saw him ...
-Damn! - She sighed
excitedly.-
And
when she approached, she saw that it was indeed him. She could not believe it.
Maybe he would have died and been condemned to the same hell as she ... but
then they talked and the boy explained everything. Now as she walked away to
Eternity with Azrael she returned from those memories, stating with regret.
- I wish things would
have been otherwise! And my companions would have had a chance. I'm very sorry
about what I did with Rubeus. He would have deserved another chance. Same as my
friend Kaori.
-You must know that
things have been as they should have been. - The angel comforted her by adding.
- And maybe for some of you say there is still a possibility. Kaori was
destroyed when like you, had done evil deeds and had not atoned for them, but
at least she had a feeling of love that could help her. It is not the same case
of your companion Rubeus who, like you died evil, but he didn´t love anyone but
himself.
- If it's not for me,
at least I beg you for that girl. Could not Diamond save her? Maybe they could
both find love together. Have each other and share their love ... - sobbed the
young woman.-
The
angel smiled again, making the girl feel very warm. And he was able to answer
her then with gentleness.
- I see that, in the
end, your love has completely purified you, since you are able to make that
sacrifice for the mortal you loved. You love him to the point of giving up on
him and you want to give another soul the opportunity that you could not enjoy
to make him happy. So be it.
And
to the astonishment of Emerald a ball of ashen gray light approached them. The
color of it was clear, if it was not completely immaculate if it was getting
close enough and then it was when that light took the form of a woman. And that
figure spoke to her, now her features were very visible, had eyes and a long
hair reddish.
-Emerald. - That
apparition could say to her. - Thanks for helping me. I promise I'll take good
care of him. Although to be honest I will always love another man.
-It does not matter, -
she replied, drawing a faint smile on her face to affirm. - Try to be happy.
Take advantage of the second chance I could not have, and just promise me that
you will tell Diamond that I will always love him.
-I'll do it, - Kaori said,
returning a big smile to her new friend to say. - Now I must go after his aura
or I will not be able to leave. Be happy in Eternity.
And
that silhouette went away, following the boy who was only a dot in that vast
horizon between light and zenith. Kaori remembered that, as soon as her friend
disappeared in that blackness, she began to float. Her gray robe was almost
immaculate and made her rise to where she waited for that angel and her
companion of ailments ...
-And now maybe I can
get it. But I ... -She sighed with tears in her eyes. - I do not love that man.
I'm sorry, my friend. I wish you could have been with him ...
For
her part Emerald, when she saw Kaori away, she could not keep tears from
falling. And those tears began to shine. They had the color and sparkle of a
pure diamond. The angel of Death stopped then, observing that.
- Wait a moment! -
Azrael seemed to speak with someone, waiting for an answer, finally addressed the
girl - It is not very usual, but by your good heart and your generosity, He has
authorized me to reveal something. Would you like to know what your life would
have been like next to him? ...
-I do not know, - she
managed to stammer. - It's cruel to show me something I'll never have. -
Although the girl was silent and seemed to reflect, at least she could take
that memory and changing her mind.- If you can really do it, I would like it so
much, please! - begged the girl visibly moved. -
-Look at there, - said
the Angel with a very jovial, strange smile on his stony face. -
Azrael
pointed to a place in the light. Emerald looked and could see the image of a
baby that became a beautiful girl with golden hair and intense violet eyes,
equal to those of Diamond. The girl changed and a beautiful woman's face
replaced her. She was sitting in a rocking chair, inside a room, near a window
that showed a beautiful landscape and a sky full of stars. She was cradling a
baby with an intense white aura around him. Suddenly, she seemed to look
directly at Emerald with a gesture of astonishment, it was something very
fleeting, the image immediately disappeared. The girl, in wonder, asked the
angel.
-Who is that woman?
It's not me, right?
- No, it's not you,
Emerald. But what you have seen is part of you. - Answered the speaker in an
enigmatic way. She tried to understand Azrael's words and finally succeeded,
then the angel confirmed what she had suspected.- Yes, that woman is the
daughter that you and Diamond would have had. And that child who she cradled,
your grandson, he would be a very special child, with an important mission to
fulfill. He would know me in his dreams and travel with me, before him would
submit the most powerful and they would reveal their best kept secrets to him.
-You talk about something
that can never happen,- she said, dejected to want to know with the pain and
again to martyrize her. - Enough, I do not want to see more. I beg you not to
grieve me anymore by showing me an impossible dream! ....
-Maybe, yes or no,
maybe, after all, your cycle has not closed yet, - Azrael replied
enigmatically. -
-But how could that
be?- I have lost Diamond, - Emerald objected. - It is impossible for me to
return to the world of the living!
- For you and for him
it is impossible, but nothing is for the Creator. He is the Way and the
Resurrection, the Life itself. To you it seemed only to lose your beloved, I
myself thought that I should take you, but He wanted to prove to what extent
your love would come and to show that you had indeed purified yourself. Both of
you should return to the Innocence that you lost and indeed, you only thought
about his happiness, you asked him to leave even leaving you here, you gave
that other soul your own opportunity. That feeling of true love and generosity
has completely redeemed you. No, you still should not come with me. Your place
is in the world of mortals.
The
girl smiled full of joy, but immediately she put her optimism down and wanted
to know with a tone of objection.
-But how can I go back
without him?
-I myself will guide
you, - the Angel reassured her, and as he said this before them the light of
Eternity gradually receded. - You'll be safe holding my hand.
The
mighty being led her back to the border, a faint flame still glimpsed. Azrael
again sketched what looked like a smile. Emerald felt an infinite number of
warm sensations and a tingling that crossed her body her mind and her spirit.
-Rise and pass through
the light,- said the angel. - In doing so you will forget the things you have
seen. It will almost be like being reborn. Crossing that silver portal through
which you all accede to the material world.
-But. Will I forget
everything? - She wanted to know with a certain fear. - Even him?
-Your sufferings in
Hell will be erased even though you will know that somehow you suffered to
purge your guilts. And as far as your future is concerned you shall forget too.
When the time comes you will remember it, it will come to you in the form of
dreams and visions. But only in due time, for that is something that you must
build between the two of you. Now begin your life and be happy with your
beloved and when your time really comes I will come to look for you. Until then
shall you live with righteousness and purity and love to your beloved beings.
-I will, I promise.
I've learned my lesson. I will be another person very different from the one I
was when I fell here. - The excited girl declared.- Thanks ...
So
the angel propelled her gently into the light. Emerald smiled radiant with
happiness and very grateful. Now she saw how powerful and beautiful that angel
was, but at last Azrael grew dwarfed by the distance until he disappeared.
Then, after moments that seemed eternal, Emerald crossed the light and came out
of the flames, High Cloud was surprised to see her. She fell to the ground
panting and dominated by the impression of her return to earthly life she did
not realize at first that she was naked. Realizing this and the presence of the
Old Indian she covered her intimate parts of her body and breasts instinctively
with her hands. Her hair was greenish again, though it was almost pulling blonder.
High Cloud only smiled faintly and threw a blanket she used to cover herself,
the Shaman waited for the newcomer to cover herself to look at her inquiringly
and ask.
- You're the girl he
came for. It is not like this?
-Yes sir, - admitted
the interpellated.
-I see he did well
after all. You both have returned to innocence.
- The shaman smiled.-
And
those words reminded the young woman just that. It was there as if she had just
arrived in the world. Which, on the other hand, was exactly what had happened...
-I do not understand,-
she said, now embarrassed. - I wore a tunic when I left.-
-That was your
spiritual envelope, the symbol of your redemption,- Cloud High explained to
her, and then asked. - Tell me, it's you, the woman who loved that boy, right?
- Yes, it's me and you…
are you the man who helped him? - She wanted to know in turn. -
-I just did what my
heart and spirit told me to do. I heard the voice of my ancestors. And the
other woman who appeared next to him. At first I thought that other were you.
Tell me, did you bind to her? - The
Indian asked her, now with a more surprised gesture. -
Emerald
then told her what had happened. The old Shaman understood. Now he knew why.
And in turn he told his interlocutor.
-In that case, that
girl is still lost.- Her body did not fully receive her soul back. She must be
trapped since she was not claimed for her true love. She will not be able to
return fully until the one who is destined for her is at her side. Her human
form was an illusion, disappeared again, now she will be in a different place.
She could only look at me and say a word, Tau. But for the moment, that should
not worry you.
-And Prince Diamond?
It's okay? - She asked with concern. -
-Do not be afraid for
him. He sleeps in the village, he is in the care of my people, -said the shaman,
who pointed down with one of his hands as he told the girl. - He arrived
exhausted, it is normal, after using his spiritual power for so long and so
thoroughly. He forced his abilities beyond their limits. He has been
unconscious for three days.
-So long? But, it cannot
be, if I spoke to him very recently ...- replied Emerald in astonishment.-
-You must know that
time does not pass in the same way in this world as in that of the spirits, the
shaman explained, adding. - One more thing, now that you return to be human you
will forget some things that you have experienced in the other plane of
existence. Matters that should not be revealed to mortals.
-Yes, I think something
like that was said to me ...- She whispered as she was trying to remember.-
The
girl looked at the man with visible disbelief, it was true, and she could not
remember much of her conversation with the angel. The memory of her daughter's
future had been erased from her memory. She felt as if she had awakened after
dreaming, without even realizing those memories were diluted. She thought that
sorcerer or whatever was right. Surely in that dimension there should be no
time, at least not the same as on Earth. Then she stopped thinking about it,
instead she worried about the fate of her beloved and asked the old man.
-Take me with him,
please! , I want to be by his side and take care of him, I owe him! I must be
in this life again and I will not allow him to suffer more because of me. I
love him and it is time to start showing him with noble, unselfish acts, like I
did in the past when I wasn´t controlled by evil.
- You say well -
approved High Cloud - that's the right thing to do, follow me.
The
old sorcerer wrapped himself next to Emerald in a bubble of energy, and they
both slowly descended from the peak to the village when they landed. Then they
walked along an intricate path. Once they arrived she looked around and could
see a succession of huts and even leather shops that remembered a past of
attachment to the old traditions. High Cloud indicated the village with his
hand and said as a farewell.
- I must leave you
already. I wish you a long and prosperous life and that you always walk the
path of good. Many healthy children and happiness.
- Thank you, noble old
man. We will never forget what you have done ... - She smiled when, when she
went to look at him, she did not find him. - Old man?
She was surprised,
where had he gone? She could not see him in a few meters round...
-This is not the time
to think about it,- Emerald told herself. - Diamond needs me.
So
she ran to the village, began to look around the huts at the astonishment of
its inhabitants. In none he was. The girl felt desolate and filled with
anguish. Now that she was in the world of the living, she was unable to find
the one who tried to get her out of the hereafter! Luckily, the restlessness
was short-lived, two old ladies came to her and beckoned. Emerald followed them
and they carried her to the store where Diamond rested. There, around him, many
old women and sorcerers swirled around trying to relieve him with potions and
vapors and intoning all sorts of songs. The young woman approached him, and
both the old women and the healers turned away. The prince was delirious with
fever, waving in an uneasy dream. The girl placed a hand on his forehead and
noticed that it burned, they brought a bowl of water and a cloth, and she wet
it and put it on, then held a hand of his in theirs.
-Rest my love, - she
whispered sweetly. - I am by your side, I have been given another opportunity
thanks to your courage and I will not let you be the one who is leaving now.
They
spent several hours in which he did not move, the old ladies and some girls of
the tribe brought her clothes so that she could get rid of that rustic blanket.
She put on those leather dresses and followed Diamond's care. She lay awake all
night at his side, he seemed to have fallen into a calmer sleep, and the fever
had begun to subside. Emerald had been accustomed to an eternal vigil, but now
she felt herself becoming mortal again, fatigue and sleep gradually taking hold
of her, as well as the feeling of hunger. She fell, overcome by all that, and
fell asleep. She awakened in the first light of evening. Her prince still slept
placidly. The fever had finally subsided. The girl rose for a moment and the
women of the tribe brought her something to eat, bread and goat's milk that she
devoured with great desire. She was surprised at the starvation she had, she
had almost forgotten what it was to eat like. When she finished, she returned
to Diamond, who seemed to be awakening, and again she took hold of his hands,
and at last he opened his eyes. For the boy to wake up and see her smile was
the most beautiful sight of this world. At first he thought he dreamed, he
closed his eyes again, and when he reopened them, he thought she would
disappear, or that she would have been some Indian girl whom he had taken for her
lover in her delirium. But Emerald was still there and spoke to him with much
love, stroking his hair gently.
- I am here my prince,
I am real, and you made it! Thanks to you I have been given another chance to
live. From now on I will be another woman, I swear! I will be worthy of you, of
this new beginning. I want to be by your side and I always will love you
Emerald
could not help crying and they hugged each other, Diamond still in a slightly
weak voice, but full of joy, said.
- I cannot believe it,
thank God and Azrael! he was not so
terrible after all.
-Do you even remember
what happened? - Asked the perplexed girl to tell him in turn - I do not
remember almost anything, what's more, I know that the Angel of Death told me
something important but I cannot remember what it was...
And
indeed, she could remember nothing of the revelations made by that being of
light, even the memory of Kaori had vanished from her mind entirely.
-That does not matter anymore,-
said Diamond, overflowing with happiness, though he had also lost most of his
memories, with only bits and pieces in his memory. - The main thing is that we
have each other! Now finally we can dedicate ourselves to us, without struggles
and without suffering the deceptions of anyone!
-We can start a new
life, surely we will be very happy, my prince - she affirmed. -
- Yes, with my brother,
the Ayakashi sisters and many more friends. We will not be alone, you'll see! -
He added with some comedy to dispel the deep emotion that surrounded them. -
The only problem will be looking for a job, this is not like in Nemesis, ha,
ha!
-Oh, my beloved prince!
- She smiled. - No matter what we have to do, from now on we will overcome it
together. We've come out of the hard way.
- You're right. - He
agreed, however telling her. - But do not call me a prince anymore. Forget the
palace etiquette. All that is over, for you I am only Diamond. Do you know
Emerald? I remember one of those demons offering me a multitude of riches and
kingdoms. Even changing the past, but the price he asked me was to renounce you
and this life. And I made my decision. No more dreams of power! No more stupid
revenge! I do not want to make anyone suffer. I will not make the same mistake
twice again.
- For me you will
always be my prince ... gentle and brave. Your wishes my.... - The girl stopped
and smiling through tears corrected. - Forgive me, it's going to be difficult.
Your wishes will be mine. -She flared visibly excitedly.
Diamond,
slowly regaining his strength, rose and returned the smile as he took her chin
gently with one of his hands to say...
- Well, you know what I
want now more than anything. - Emerald looked at him quizzically shaking her
head and then he revealed her amused. - Eating something, I'm starving. LOL!
They
both laughed heartily, it was a wonderful feeling. They felt free and happy for
the first time in so long. And for once the thunderous laughter of her was
almost silenced by his laughter. Soon Diamond was served by the girls from the
village who brought him the same as before for Emerald. He ate with the same
voracious appetite leaving them astonished.
- As I wish - said
between morsel and morsel - to meet again with all my friends and my brother,
you will see when they see you! ... The amazed they are going to be! especially
the warriors.
-The Warriors? -
repeated her astonished interlocutor asking not without prevention. - How do
you think they'll receive me? In the past I was very mean to them.
-Do not fear, -
rejoiced Diamond cheerfully after sipping a large bowl of milk. - They will
welcome you as a friend. - I'm sure, just like they did with the sisters...
-So they made up their
lives too, - Emerald smiled enthusiastically, - it's wonderful! That is my
greatest wish now.
Diamond
nodded and told her what had happened since he met Roy and the others. He told
her how they had trained, made friends and fought against the invading demons
and then, as he decided to leave in their quest and finally the adventures of
his training with the shaman. She listened with great attention.
-You really did all
that? - It's something amazing!
-Yes and on many
occasions thinking that I might have a chance to recover you helped me more
than you could possibly imagine.
She
smiled and hugged him. Just hearing him say those words filled her with
happiness. She'd waited to hear him say something like that since she'd met him
in Nemesis.
-Now that we're finally
together, it'll be wonderful. - She
sighed with joy.-
-But the best of
everything and the hardest thing will be to start from scratch. But we will get
it - He declared.-
-This is like a dream
for me - said the young woman.-
- Yes, it is my dream
too, and now all together we will begin to realize it - Diamond said her with a
broad smile. - Together with the others, my friends, my brother Sapphire and
the Ayakashi sisters. Well now they do not call themselves that way. They
changed their name to Malinde, I think.
- I would like to know
how they did it, I will have to ask them for help to adapt.
- It's not that
difficult, you'll see! What's more, I'll tell you that I changed when I learned
from Sailor Moon that they were happy living on Earth, it was like opening my
eyes. It will be great, when we recover fully we will meet with them.
She
nodded in hope and enthusiasm. Indeed, within a few days the two were recovered.
In that time she demonstrated the great talent that she had to design costumes
and even to arrange them. Diamond was very surprised, the girl explained that
since she was a girl, she was passionate about it. There would be a good
opportunity to make a living. At last they set out to depart. After thanking
the tribesmen for their care, Diamond took Emerald in her arms and flew to the
clouds.
-Let's say goodbye to
High Cloud, I want to thank you again. - Emerald said. -
-Yes, I too - added Diamond,
adding with visible appreciation. - We are together, thanks to him. Unlike that
damned necromancer who pushed us to perdition, he is a very wise man. He has
made me see that I still have a lot to learn.
They
arrived in the meantime until the peak but High Cloud was not there, both felt
sorry not being able to say goodbye. Diamond in spite of it, said aloud so that
it could be heard at a distance.
- I'm sure that,
wherever you are, you listen to me. Thank you, my friend and teacher, for all
you have done for us, thank you very much!
-Yes - said Emerald. - I
promise you that one day we will come and visit you with our children.
The
young man nodded at her words with a pleased expression. Of course they both
would! And after looking at the peak in silence for a few seconds, smiled at
his companion and flew at full speed. After a few hours of traveling by doing
some scales they could see the city of New York. Diamond landed in a small park
where he knew his friends were going to meet. They walked a short distance to
find them all. The welcome was great and so, among the joy that presided over
that celebration, they set out to start a new life. Emerald apologized again
and again to the warriors, especially the Sailor Moon, or rather, that would be
the Neo Queen Serenity of the Millennium Silver. However, as Diamond predicted,
far from keeping any grudges, they received her as a friend. In fact, Usagi herself
told the girl that she could now imitate if she wanted the four sisters.
-We have heard your
desire to amend you and we are very happy for it. Now also that your heart is
purified and renewed. If you want, you could become just as righteous as the sisters
and become other Justiciera.
-Yes! - Tercio Petz with
evident pleasure. -Until Kalie comes back, we're only three, and the more we're
better off.
-And when she returns,
we'll be five! As the first group of warriors! - said Cooan with the same
enthusiasm as her sister. -
Emerald smiled
gratefully at the proposition and replied shyly.
-If that were possible,
if I deserve that honor, it would be my pleasure.
-Do not talk anymore! -
Usagi stated flatly, after looking sideways and convincing herself that no
strangers were around them, she added. "I'll summon your star seed.
Something tells me that yours will shine brightly...
All
but the sisters and the other sailors were surprised, though no one had occasion
to ask. Usagi became Eternal Sailor Moon and, as she did with the sisters, made
a green light emerge from the heart of Emerald that became a jewel. It was the
color of the name of the girl herself who, excited, could not help but admire
the beauty of it. It had a lighter shade than the stone of Petz, which was
green sea. In a few moments that kind of emerald was transmuted into a
boomerang. Then Usagi explained.
-It's the symbol of
your return. As the boomerang returns to its pitcher, I think it is the most
propitious weapon to define your return to the path of good.
The
astonished girl took it in her hands and sobbed excitedly as soon as that
weapon returned to become that beautiful jewel, which was now set in a pendant.
-I cannot believe that
something so beautiful was inside me. It is so beautiful! Thank you very much,
my Queen.
-Usagi, call me Usagi-
Chan. - She corrected her between tired, kindly and amused. -
-You must shout
"Pure Heart of the Wind give me the power!" To transform you. - Well, your element has
been consecrated to the air - said the she cat Luna. -
Everyone
encouraged her to try, she agreed willingly and in effect, she could invoke her
new power by transforming her skin clothes into a uniform similar to that of
the sisters, with their particular tone. Tall light green boots to match with a
large bow over the chest and a miniskirt, and a white bodice. Fastened on it, she
wore the three jewels she had worn in her old Black Moon suit. Great emeralds
that were the symbol of her family. And a mask of the same color as the jewels.
Although the girl, once returned to her former appearance, declared answering Makoto's
question about what she planned to do.
-I'd like to leave my
past behind and settle down in Paris. The ancestors of Diamond's mother were
from there. And I've also discovered that I have a passion for fashion.
-That is very interesting.
- Affirmed the sailor Pluto that unveiled to all. - I also like it very much,
if you need some help contact with me or with the others. Let us know. - She
offered with kindness. -
Emerald
smiled gratefully and indeed, they would all try to help her. Especially
Michiru and Haruka, despite not having known her as an enemy, or perhaps
precisely because of it, took a lot of interest in her case. Both were well connected
in the world of art and music. By that they knew people related to fashion and they
would try to talk to them. They both offered each other very kindly. And when
that celebration ended at first the sailors and they returned to Japan. Petz
and Diamond's brother had settled there. The four dined in the house that had
been of the sisters and in which now the oldest of these lived with her
partner.
-It seems like a dream
to be here. And it will do us good to spend a few days in a better known place
before traveling to Europe.
-I think our maternal
grandmother was born there. Right brother? - Inquired Sapphire.-
-I do not remember too
well unfortunately.- Lamented Diamond.- It's a pity that the few times we could
be with our mother we did not pay our full attention when she told us these
things ...
-In my case, I remember
things she mentioned to me sometimes. For instance, she told me that her
grandmother became a famous model and director of a prestigious design firm. -
Emerald smiled, affirming - Who knows? Maybe I could do that.
-Of course, why not? You
used to make designs of fashions in Nemesis. - Remembered Petz.-
Although
that had been, of course, long before the evil corrupted them all. It was
inevitable to remember that. So, Emerald took the floor now with more regret.
-I'd like to apologize
to you as well - she mumbled hurriedly, surprised them all.-
-You do not have to do
it, - said the eldest of the four sisters immediately.-
-Yes, I must. I behaved
very stupid and haughty. -The young woman said. - I was so paid of myself and
so obsessed ... me ... I...
She
could barely continue, trying to wipe away some tears. Diamond immediately came
to her aid, placing a hand over the girl's.
-We all made mistakes.
We did things wrong. But we paid for it. Now it's a new life. Remember, the
same Usagi told you.
-Yes - Petz agreed. - And
trust me when I tell you that you can compensate the world. And also be very
happy.
Meanwhile
both brothers had risen from the table, Sapphire whispered something to
Diamond, and he nodded smiling. Then his younger brother went to put a song ...
Petz left discreetly. The prince in the meantime approached Emerald and, with
one knee, took one of his hands to declare as a beautiful music was sounded.
-I'm the one who should
beg your pardon. And as our friend Roy advised us, it is best to do it with
elegance. When we spoke in Heaven he recommended this song to me. In fact we
made a bet.
-A bet? She was
surprised. - About what?
-I'll tell you after. -
Now dance with me. Like old times. And listen to the lyrics, it's as if someone
had written it for me. It happens to me as they say in the chorus. I wish I had
words! ... My beautiful princess Emerald.
The
girl was between surprised and excited. More when her prince took her by the
waist and a hand standing with her to dance. They did it with that beautiful
song, which first made her smile and later made her cry as they danced in the
living room to the beat of music. Even more so when he finally lifted her up in
his arms and smiled at her in a low voice, repeating some of the stanzas as they
slowly turned around the room.
If I could find words
To tell you I'm sorry
Make you understand
I just want to say what
I say
After all I've heard
Why should I worry?
When we move along the
thin line
Between love and hate
If I had been wise
How could I have
doubted you?
Now I am alone
My life upside down
But I do what I can
I cannot live without
you
So I cling to hope
Of a brighter day
Oh, I know we've been
through all this before
How can I prove that my
love for you is real?
No, I cannot do it any
more
If only I could find
words
And he still has
dreams.
And I still have to
learn to cope
Absurd as it seems
I still have hope
If I had common sense
And pay attention to
all notices
I would let it be
And leave everything
alone
But there is no reward
Up the road in the
mornings
Feeling safe, it's me
The fool
Yes, I know I've been
through all this before
How can I prove that my
love for you is real?
No, I cannot do it any
more
If I cannot at least
find
If at least I cannot
find
If I cannot at least
find words
I see you
I see you
I want to be with you
I know it in my heart...
(Words. The Christians,
author credit)
-It's a beautiful song!
No! - She could say, shaking her head in tears. - I do not deserve so much! ...
I do not deserve you, my prince...
But now it was Diamond
who embraced her after wiping some tears back, while responded.
-I did not deserve
someone like you to love me. And be so stupid as not to even notice it.
The
young woman held him tightly, while she cried, but with happiness. He barely
wiped away those excited tears to ask almost between babbling.
-And which ... what was
that bet?
-You see ... Roy is a
good cook. He proposed that if I won, he would prepare my food for a whole year
... -Now the boy smiled to added.- In return he told me exactly, “little
prince, I'm going to play you a song. When you listen to her, you have to think
about that Nemesis girl. That Emerald. And ... if when the music and song ends
you've been able to not cry, then, as well as being the coldest and hardest guy
I've ever met, I'll cook whatever you want for a whole year ... because I know
I'll win. This song is as if it were written just for you and for her.
-And what did he ask
you to do if you lost? - She wanted to know with curiosity. -
Now
the boy smiled again, this time more emotionally, he placed both hands on her
cheeks gently and whispered tenderly.
-In that case I should
find you, rescue you and dance with you while we listen to this same song ...
repeat your stanzas one by one because I would have to learn them by heart. And
I will make you happy. - He sighed with his eyes making water to smile. – So,
you can guess who lost! ... Although I tried with all my strength not to give
in, because I wanted to have him preparing my food. But that rascal knew me
well. He realized immediately what I felt.
This
time it was the girl who tried to smile but could not help crying again. They
both hugged for a long time. Sapphire and Petz smiled in turn. They had heard
that tune from another room, since they judged it best to leave their guests
alone to enjoy that moment in privacy.
-Then you've already
paid the bet. I'll tell him as soon as I see him. -Emerald affirmed when she
finally got enough.
-No not yet. He told me
I would have to make you happy all my life. And as a prince that I am, I will
keep my word. At least I'll stick to it.
And
to emphasize those statements he kissed her on the lips. She allowed herself to
return that kiss. That was the unforgettable evening. During the days that
followed her future brothers-in-law put Emerald abreast of life in that
century. Especially Petz kept many conversations with her former superior and
now friend. One day they left to have something in a place known to their warrior’s
friends, the Fruit Parlor Crown. Petz had an appointment with Makoto.
-This is a very nice
place. I usually come with Mako-chan. The same as today - Petz told him.
-Here? - Said her
interlocutor, looking to the right and left, stooped behind sunglasses.
-What's the matter? -
Petz wanted to know. - I'd say you're afraid they're watching us.
-Well, something like that.
- She could say something blushing to confess. It's just that the first time I
came to Earth to fulfill our mission, well ... I do not remember if it was here
or in any other place very similar. The fact is that I started eating cakes
without stopping. I lost all my control! There were delicious. - She tried to
justify herself by whispering now to her astonished friend. - I'm ashamed that
someone recognizes me.
Petz
laughed frankly amused. She did not remember seeing Emerald so red. They could
hardly add anything more because Makoto herself came at that very moment.
-Hello girls! - She
greeted with visible kindness.-
-How are you? - Her
friend Petz answered.-
-Very busy, between
completing my exams and starting the project, - She retorted.-
-Project? - Inquired Emerald.
-Yes, I want to set up
my own coffee shop and florist. - The new arrival revealed.-
-Mako-chan is an
excellent cook, and even better baker. I assure. She has taught me many
recipes. - Petz told her future sister-in-law. - It will be a great success.
-I wish I could taste
some of your pies! - This one smiled.-
-For sure! Before you
go, I´ll invite you to my house and we will have lunch. - The sailor suggested
jovially.-
The other women nodded.
It was Emerald who thoughtfully muttered.
-I still do not
understand how I could be so stupid. You are great girls. How I would have
liked to have met you in Nemesis before the Wise Man manipulated us!
-Good. That is easy to
fix, -Makoto said gently. - We are here now, you can meet us and we can be good
friends from now on...
-Yes. I would be very
glad. -The interviewee smiled. - You can always count on me.
The
young warrior nodded approvingly and they continued their conversation. On the
other hand Diamond was busy in catching up on land usage and custom of the Earth
in the twentieth century. Now he was very grateful for the past few months in
the Corner of Soul and Time with his brother and the rest. That made things
easier for him. Sapphire, who already knew important people, got his own
brother to work with him in a research center, associated with the European
space agency. It was great news. The four of them stayed for dinner to
celebrate. And Diamond, to the desserts, added to give an even greater joy to
his partner...
-And they offered me a
vacancy that my brother did not want.
-Yes? - Replied the
girl with a curious curiosity. Where?
-You see, - Sapphire
told them. - I wanted to live here with Petz. We like Japan. We would like to
establish ourselves and one day, raise the children we will have in this
country.
-It is true. Close to
Mako-chan and the rest of the warriors. – Her fiancée agreed.-
-And as the European
Space Agency have contacts and experts in other parts of the world they agreed
to leave me here. But initially the vacancy was in France....
-More concretely in Paris.
- Finally revealed Diamond with a half-smile. -
-It is wonderful!
Exclaimed Emerald.
Half
a restaurant stared at them. The quartet was somewhat stiff and the author of
that scandal flushed even more by covering herself with a napkin and muttering.
-I am sorry…
But
then everyone laughed at that. Needless to say, the laughter of Emerald left
astonished more than one of the diners who were there. Days passed and at last
they said goodbye to Sapphire and Petz. They stayed to see each other in a few
months to tell each other their new lives. So Emerald and Diamond traveled to
France. Powerful friends and people aware of with the battles that the prince
of Nemesis and the others had fought to save mankind helped them. The couple
immediately obtained documents, cards and identities. Curiously, Diamond chose
the surname Lassart, which he told her partner, was the one his mother, the
queen Amethyst Nairía, had when she was single. Emerald could try to get into
the fashion world. For now adopting the same surname she had in Nemesis. Green.
The first few days were very busy. They contacted many people despite their
difficulties with the language since none spoke French. And in terms of
accommodation they chose a modest but cozy little house in a village on the
outskirts of Paris. Emerald wanted to take care of everything about decorating
and of course he was more than relieved to leave that in her hands. Within two
weeks of being installed, as promised to the young woman, Haruka, Michiru and
Setsuna accompanied her one day to a very prestigious fashion house. To the
workshop of Madame Annette Alexandra Deveraux. She had great admiration for
Michiru's talent for violin and she had designed clothes for the violinist and
other celebrities. Setsuna also had occasion to do some fashion sketches that
were approved by that lady. The truth is that, in the opinion of the sailors, that
woman was very eccentric. She did not receive anyone, of course, but with that
three girls she always made an exception. They told Emerald that she had saved her
from a certain evil attack on one occasion. And that in addition with the great
skills of that trio, that great lady was fascinated. In spite of she was not at
all easily impressionable.
-But she does not know
me. I do not know if she will even deign to receive me. - Opposed the newcomer.-
-Do not worry. Leave us
that. - Haruka reassured her.-
So
it was. On this occasion Setsuna worked to devise a plan. In fact, she was the
most passionate about fashion world. She presented a dubious and nervous Emerald
before the great Parisian lady. Sailor Pluto explained to her protégé that it
was not easy to meet that woman, so they prepared that. The girl had made some
design based on the costumes she remembered from Nemesis. When they all went to
visit that old lady, Setsuna took them and told Emerald to wait a moment before
coming in. Pluto was accompany by Michiru and Haruka. The three of them went to
the old woman's office as soon as they were authorized by her secretary. They
reached a spacious and bright place, with walls lined with beautiful fabrics
with artistic landscapes. The rest of the decor was sober but at the same time
elegant. As a desk an oak table of appreciable proportions, combined with an armchair
made of leather. Nearby, upholstered cloth chairs with a round glass table in
which there was a kettle, several cups, plates and some biscuits. Seated in one
of those chairs awaited her hostess. Madame Deveraux was a woman who was
already over the seventy, with gray hair that was once chestnut and pale blue
eyes that looked very inquisitively at those young girls behind their narrow
silver-rimmed glasses.
-Madame Deveraux, - smiled
Setsuna, bowing slightly. How are you? I'm glad to see you.
-Good ma chère. - The lady
smiled and invited the girls to take a seat as she greeted them with a slight
bow of her head, asking with great affability. - What is due the honor of your
visit?
-Oh! Haruka smiled
nonchalantly. - We just wanted to see how you were.-
-Yes. - And by the way,
to invite you to a concert that I'm going to give soon in Paris. - Seconded
Michiru. –
-You're very kind, - smiled
the old woman visibly pleased to promise. - I would not miss it for anything,
you play like the angels, my dear.
-You really do play
well! - Haruka sighed mischievously, who, in the accusatory glances of her
companions, hastened to add in a somewhat rushed tone. - Why do you look at me
like that? I was talking about the violin, of course, about the violin!
And
after that it was when Setsuna with a half hopeful smile, while the same Madame
Deveraux served them some tea, took the floor.
-I have allowed
myself to bring you some designs that I have just finished, so that I could use
your opinion if it is not a nuisance.
-With pleasure, - said
the woman, who stretched out one of her arms and asked. - Let me see.
Without
delay Pluto gave her a briefcase where she carried all the drawings. Mrs. Deveraux
opened it and began to have a look at them. All the girls were eager to know
her expert opinion. Although this woman only emitted some sound that did not
give much clue as to whether she liked it or not. At last, and looking at a
couple of designs, she told Setsuna.
-Well dear. This is
very interesting. Yes, you've outdone yourself lately. Really, I told you that
you would have to work for me. Why do not you want to accept my offer?
-I appreciate it a lot.
- Now her interlocutor could smile with a cheerful gesture to unveil. - But you
will see. I have to confess something. Those designs are not mine.
-Ah no? - The lady was
surprised.
And
she watched her inquisitively waiting for a clarification, to which Pluto
promptly replied.
-They're from a good
friend who is waiting outside. When I saw them I thought she had talent and I
wanted to show them to you. To say that they were mine was only a small joke,
pardon me. I would never appropriate another person's work.
Madame
Deveraux sighed longingly, the girls worried a little, maybe that would not
have suited her. As they themselves told Emerald, this woman was reputed to be
very eccentric and you never knew what she could think. Although, to their
relief, this time she smiled slightly and replied.
-Young lady. You know that
being Haruka, Michiru and you. I forgive everything. In addition, bring me
sketches like these every day and you can make all the jokes you want. Where do
you say that girl that has drawn them is?
- She is out. - Haruka
reminded her. - As soon as you see her for sure you'll love her.
-She's going to remind
you of someone. - Michiru promised. - Someone you've been waiting for many
years.
Mrs.
Deveraux gave them a look of inquisitiveness and accomplice. Then she nodded
slowly and muttered.
-Are you sure?
-Absolutely. It is her.
- Sentenced Setsuna.
-Well, let her in, for
God's sake! I have to know her. - Asked the old woman, who seemed to be barely
able to restrain her impatience. –
It was Michiru who got
up, left the office, and went to meet Emerald, who was sitting very nervously
in one of the chairs in the waiting room, which had a pink tone, matching the
rug and in contrast to the ivory color of the walls. As soon as she saw Neptune
appear, she rose like a spring. However, the smile on her face reassured her,
more so when she asked him to accompany her.
-What did she say? - Emerald
wanted to know, full of uneasiness. -
-I think she liked you.
Although now you will have to submit to her interrogation. And do not trust
appearances. She is a very hard and demanding woman when it comes to her work.
And to the others. She doesn´t trust people easily. - Warned her companion. -
Try to talk only when she asks you. And do not try to impress her. She is not
like that. I can assure you.
The
young woman received those pieces of advice and nodded. So they knocked on the
door and their passage was granted. Emerald came in and immediately set eyes on
the old woman who was chatting with Setsuna and Haruka. Madame Deveraux looked
at her too, but she looked at her with a scrutinizing look, and she even made
the impression of smiling a little, showing her approval, and then, without
further ado, asked her in French.
-Vous étes qui a fait les dessins?
Although seeing the astonished gesture of the poor girl, it was Haruka
who hurried to explain to the prestigious designer.
-Our friend does not
speak French yet, but she speaks English.
That
old woman smiled once more to repeat her question and start a conversation in a
correct English that curiously Emerald did speak and understand since her
return to the world of the living, just like the Japanese. Surely it would be
so since both were their languages of union to this world and that in Nemesis
most of their ancestors spoke that language.
-So you're the author
of those sketches, child. - Tell me, what's your name?
-Yes, yes, madam. They
are mine. My name is Emerald Green. - She could almost mumble, visibly nervous.
-Emerald - Almost
whispered her intercom, nodding slowly and muttering. - Yes, I see. All right,
I never forget a name. And yours less than none, is very ... distinctive. -
Although soon left that tone almost nostalgic to change to a more dynamic and
neutral to add. - From what I see you like to design. You are also quite high -
Valued the designer who, with professional interest, asked. - How tall are you?
- A meter seventy-six.
- I believe. - Emerald replied that she kept her head a little down, feeling
somewhat frightened. - More or less like my friend Setsuna.
-No, no, no! Mrs.
Deveraux smiled amusedly at this shy young woman as she rose and gently pushed
the girl's chin slightly upward. - Always high head, girl. Never forget! And
whatever happens, always walk with firm steps. That will be your first lesson.
Emerald
did not know what to reply. Her friends watched her in amusement. That
sometimes unorthodox fashion guru also gave a review to the suit that the girl
looked, was a model that the same girl had made. She took advantage of making
it when she had a few days after her and Diamond arrived to Paris. It
remembered quite a lot of the dress she wore when she was part of the Black
Moon clan, but in slightly brighter green colors and without those long gloves.
-Where did you get this
dress? - The old lady wanted to know, that valued. - The fabric is coarse, but
the design is good.
-I made it myself -
confessed the stunned girl, almost apologetic. - I did not have much money to
buy cloth.
-Ma Cherie, that will
not be a problem from now on, - she smiled broadly, Mrs. Deveraux seemed to be visibly satisfied and sentenced
to the delight of her interlocutor and the shared joy of her friends. -I want
you here at eight o'clock tomorrow. You have many things to learn yet but I see
don´t lack of talent. And I will not let that tramp Goldpier takes you. -She
concluded in a tone of disgust in clear allusion to her fiercest rival. -
That touches the girl.
She smiled brightly.
-I thank you very much,
madam! -She was able to say, almost with tears on the verge of jumping. -
-Thank me by doing more
like these. - Replied the old woman holding the sketches with one hand while
adding - In addition, I think you have model skills. When I saw you enter, your
way of walking is very. How would I say it? Aristocratic. It's curious. I would
like that aside from designing out-of-shape you will be a model for your own
creations. Believe me, if you test them you can feel if they are good or not.
Always remember this. Fashion exists for women to always feel beautiful and
happy. And so she can dream.
-I'll do whatever you
tell me. I'm looking forward to learning. - Said the girl visibly moved. -
-Very well, arranged.
Now girl, sit with us and have some tea. Starting tomorrow to work hard and
study French. C'est le langage de la mode! - Exclaimed the woman with a casual
gesture. -
And
the rest of the evening was very pleasant. They said goodbye to the old woman,
but Setsuna still talked to her for a few minutes while the others waited for
her. When the warrior left, the girls returned to Emerald's house. Diamond had
not yet returned from his work as a computer technician. To him, his knowledge
of the thirtieth century was also more than useful in this new life. It was the
new employee of Madame Deveraux who wanted to invite her friends to dinner to
give them an effusive thanks. They were talking animatedly of the world of
fashion and the future that opened for her when Emerald suffered a kind of
sharp pain in the head, to her came an image and a name.
-Are you all right? - Haruka
looked at her with concern. -
-It must be the
excitement of the day, - Michiru said, looking at the girl with some
uneasiness. - You must calm down. You've already done it.
-Yes, thank you, but I
do not think that's why, - she said, suddenly remembering. -Tau, - she muttered
in a tone of surprise, to repeat. - The Tau nebula. Does that name mean
anything to you?
Her
three guests looked at each other with surprise and concern. It was Setsuna who
could ask in turn.
-Where does that sound
to you?
-She's turned me in the
head now. - And I remembered it. - Interviewer informed her explaining. - When
I was in Hell, I met a girl there. We became friends since our souls endured a
similar torment. Her name was Kaori.
-Kaori? Would not it be
Kaorinite? -Michiru wanted to know visibly embarrassed. -
-Yes, that was her full
name. But she preferred to be called Kaori. Did you know her? - Emerald asked.
-A tough enemy - Haruka
acknowledged. - But Mistress Nine, well, the incarnation of her in Hotaru,
ended her.
-She loved a man, like
I love Diamond, - her interlocutor told them. - We promised that we would
support each other in our respective torments. And that one would lend a hand
to the other if she had any chance of being redeemed. And she kept her word. She
helped Diamond when he came to rescue me. I wanted her saved when I thought I
could not go back. And somehow I think she came back, but she was caught
between her dimension and ours. At least that's what the shaman who instructed Diamond
told me when I came. Now I want to honor my promise and do something for her. She
deserves a chance.
But
after a dense silence from her listeners, Michiru shook her head to reply in a
serious tone.
-You have no idea how
evil she was. She was well deserved what happened to her. I would not bring her
here again for nothing in this world.
-I was also evil, you
can ask your fellow warriors, - said her interlocutor to add. - But if anything
I have learned from my terrible experience in the underworld is that repentance
exists, we can all change. I know she was also heartfelt. I beg you. Help me
save her, please!
The
three warriors looked at each other without knowing what to say. Just then they
heard the sound of the door opening. It was Diamond coming back.
-Hello honey! - He
greeted nonchalantly, shortly before checking that they had visitors. -Hi,
everyone, -he said with a smile. - Glad to see you around.
Nevertheless,
he noticed the serious gesture of the four when he interrupted them in the
middle of that conversation. In a few words they informed him of the matter and
thoughtful Diamond, he pointed out.
-In my opinion Emerald
is right. True, I remember that thanks to her I avoided a trap. Although if we
do not know which man she loved, I do not think we have many opportunities.
-I wonder who he might
be - Michiru replied. - As far as we could find out fighting them, it would
have to be Dr. Tomoe."
-Tomoe? - Setsuna was
surprised and objected. - But that man has lost his memory. And although he has
recovered of his physical sequels he does not remember anything of when he was
owned by the dimone Germatoid.
-According to Landar
explained, only love can redeem those souls burdened by guilt. - Diamond added.
- As you know, my brother lives in Tokyo and I think he must know the doctor.
What's more, they could be working together. As soon as I can contact him…
-I still think it's not
a good idea to bring Kaori back to the world of the living. - Haruka insisted
inflexibly. -
-Confide in her.
Please, - Emerald asked. - We can help her, if she returns and we are her
friends, she will choose the path of good. We have to try.
-You start talking like
Usagi! And I remember how that made us
mad with the Grail issue. Michiru said with a certain longing. In fact she
seemed more willing than her warrior companion to help them, when she
sentenced. - Do not talk more. We will be back to Japan soon. We will talk with
your brother and as you adapt here, we will think what could be done.
-What I do not know. In
case we succeed, this is how Hotaru will take it. - Pluto was thoughtfully
intervening with a bias of concern to explain to her friends. - She and Kaori
did not get along just right, and even though she's the reincarnated Saturn
warrior, she remembers it perfectly.
-Anyway, the girl now
lives between our house and her father's. - Haruka commented. - It is very
independent and several years have passed since then.
-Yes, but I understand
what Setsuna means. - Michiru rifled, and added something more casually. -
Well, everything in its time. For now let us focus on saving her and recovering
her for the good, as Emerald has proposed.
The
rest nodded approvingly. They continued talking a little more about that and
finally Uranus gave up. She did still not seem very convinced but among the
others they persuaded her that, at least, now Kaori could not be very
dangerous. They spent a couple of hours in which they told Diamond and Emerald
the adventures they had in front of it and the association of the Witches Five.
The sailors told them what they knew about Kaorinite and the doctor. Later the
conversation drifted into the details of Emerald's interview with Madame
Deveraux and how that old lady had hired her partner. At last the warriors left
and the two young men were alone at home.
-Honey, I'm so glad for
you. - Diamond congratulated her by giving her a kiss on the lips. -
-Well - Emerald sighed,
smiling. - Now I have to study French and prepare in order to be a good model
and designer.
-You'll do great! - He
encouraged her asserting convinced. - For someone who dominated the etiquette of
Nemesis palace like you, that will be child's play.
And between this and
other conversations about their days, the two dined and went to bed. It is true
that they had already had relationships within a few days of being together but
that was not why Emerald let her feel a tingle in her stomach as he hugged her
and them both gave in to previous caresses and kisses. After finishing, and
feeling tired for the long day, they fell asleep at once.
-See you tomorrow my
love, - she whispered in his ear.-
-Sleep well, dream with
some pretty design. - The young man replied.-
The girl smiled, closing her eyes. But
unfortunately for her it was not precisely designs that appeared in her dream
world. Not knowing how she was transported to a dark place, dense and cold. For
some terrible moments the panic invaded her. She feared that she was still in
Hell and that the days spent with Diamond alone would have been a fleeting
dream, in the midst of her eternal torture. A kind of hallucination with which
those demons rejoiced to torment her. She remembered a phrase from Kaori when
they parted. That damn place made you think of hopes and then get them off. But
in a way that place was not the hell she had experienced. In the distance,
looking around, she saw the twinkling glints of what looked like stars. Then she
heard a very familiar voice that said to her.
-Tau. You are in the Tau
nebula.
She turned
to the source of that sound and there she saw it. Standing, dressed in a sort
of dark suit with long skirts and a generous neckline on which rested a curious
pendant that had a great brooch attached, was her friend Kaori. Now she was a
white-skinned woman, almost pulling ashen, with reddish eyes and hair. She
looked at Emerald with a tinge of sadness in her eyes, yet she smiled at her.
-I'm happy for you. You
have reached your greatest desire. And I thank you so much for thinking about
me.
-Kaori, I'd like to
help you as you did with me. But I do not know what to do. - Emerald lamented.
-I want to keep the promise we made, but I do not know how...
-You did a lot for me.
You were a friend. You gave me strength as I gave it to you. At least you got
me out of that terrible hell. Now I must find a way out of this dimension. - She
retorted, explaining. - You see, now we're not in Hell. At least it's not the
same as before we suffered Thanks to your kindness, I was allowed to leave. But
in one thing at least you and I are different, my friend.
-Different? In what? -
Inquired her companion.-
-I was not human. I
took this body you see. I already told you. I come from the Tau Nebula, from
here, our teacher Pharaoh Ninety tried to invade the terrestrial dimension. How
I committed terrible acts, I am locked in this special hell, that of Tau. I
need someone with a lot of power to help me to escape. Fortunately I can
communicate with you through your dreams.
-Who was the man you
loved? I do not remember. Would not he be a man called Tomoe? - Her
interlocutor asked, remembering the conversation she had with her friends. -
Kaori smiled shyly and
nodded. To confess refreshing the memory of her friend.
-Maybe you forgot it
when you got out of Hell. But I told you. I had never felt anything like this
until I met him. I was happy alongside him. He already saved me from death
once. The moments that I spent at his home taking care of him and his daughter
were the best of my life. For the first time I could tell what a family was.
Although I was very cruel to the poor girl. I was only interested in winning
the doctor's heart. If I had been kinder to Hotaru, things might have been
different. Although the doctor was then possessed by that Germatoid. And now I
fear that the specter of that terrible being will be around here wanting to
capture me.
- We'll save you. - Emerald
promised when she was suddenly blinded by a diaphanous light that made her
close her eyes. - Do not worry…
However, opening them
by muttering those words found that it was daytime. Sunlight streamed through
her bedroom window. Diamond was already up. She did the same, after taking a
shower looked at the clock. It was past nine! She had fallen asleep on her
first day! With horror she dressed in a hurry and asked for a taxi to go
directly to the fashion show Deveraux, not before carrying more sketches than she
had. It finally arrived at about ten in the morning, almost two hours late!
When she climbed the stairs and was set up at the reception, a woman with hair
and brown eyes, in her late thirties, about her height and with an expression
of disgust she did not bother to hide, told her in French.
-Excuse me, ma chérie. Vous devez être
à l'heure!
-Oui, excuse-moi, je suis désolé, je
ne parle pas française. - She could answer, with a hesitant tone. After making an effort to remember and correctly pronounce the few words
she knew - Je suis très mal ... pour être en retard...
-I hope this won´t be
repeated or I will be obliged to inform Mrs. Deveraux. - That woman replied,
now in a good English. -
-I'm really sorry,
really. - Emerald could excuse herself again, improvising a justification by
showing her designs folder. - But I realized that I left this at home and I
wanted to go back for them to show them to Madame Deveraux.
-My name is Monique
Lacrosse - the woman said dryly to the girl. - I was also a model and now I am
the personal secretary of Madame Deveraux and I take care of the new girls.
Today the Lady is not here. Anyway, I have instructions to prepare you and to
see how you walk down the catwalk. Follow me.
Emerald
obeyed and docilely followed the woman. Of course she did not start with her
right foot. The next three hours were not much better, she spent most of her
time walking back and forth between the constant orders of that individual, and
she told her things such. Do not arch your back, head up, the longest steps!
This seemed even worse than when she was a child and they taught her to salute
and bow in her palace education. And this woman was even more sullen than any of
the governesses her father had put her. But she was determined to do the right
thing and without complaining she fought to follow all the instructions she
received.
-This about being human
is sometimes very tiring. -She sighed, but then she said himself with a better
disposition. - But compared to the torments I've had to suffer, it's nothing.
And after a long time,
in one of the pauses that granted it, took the opportunity to call Diamond...
Parallel
to the adventures of his newly released girlfriend, the boy was finishing his
workday. He designed a complex system for ESA space satellites. Although for
him that was very simple. In fact he had introduced a couple of modifications
to improve the effectiveness of the programs. With his knowledge of the future
that was very easy. The worst thing was having to obey a boss. In spite of all
that what he had already learned, his princely pride was difficult to tame. He
was thinking about that, and at the time he was finishing one of the program's
command lines when his phone rang. It was Emerald. He was glad to hear her. She
made a brief break as she told him how the day had gone. It even made him laugh
when she confessed that she was late and that she had already taken the first
fight. They both joked at how advantageous it was to appear and move at will as
they did before. Then the conversation turned to more serious tones when the
young woman told her the dream she had. Diamond pondered. If that was the issue
then it could focus in a scientific way. After a few more minutes he said
goodbye to the girl until the afternoon. He continued his work and when the
time came to finish, he signed off and before leaving home he contacted his
brother Sapphire through video conference in one of the offices. In Japan it
was night but his interlocutor seemed to have been waiting for the call.
Diamond explained the dream that Emerald had had. Then his brother replied.
-The warriors have
explained to me what is happening. And with that you told me I think I have the
solution. In fact I talked to Tomoe without telling him anything about the
girl's feelings. I only raised the problem from a scientific view. He and I
have agreed that it is feasible. And this that you tell me now comes to confirm
it.
-That girl is then
trapped in another dimension parallel to ours - Diamond said. - It would be a
matter of establishing a kind of corridor that communicate that place with us
and to be able to remove her of there.
-That's why we have a
device we designed for the Tokyo Planetarium. - Sapphire told him giving more
details. - It's a three-dimensional printer. It is capable of converting energy
into matter. I have really contributed some knowledge of the thirtieth century
and it is highly secret. In the planetarium they do not know their true
potential. They think that it can only show evolutions of the solar system in
three dimensions. But that site is the base of operations of our agency. You
know, the world governments. And it's subsidized by a guy with a lot of money.
I will speak to you about him...
-The important thing brother
is how we're going to do it. - Replied Diamond that he did not want his interlocutor
gave him so much superfluous details. -
-Give me a few days to
arrange everything and as soon as you can come to Japan, the better. -
-In a week I will have
a few days off, I suppose Emerald may also ask for a brief permit.
-Have she found a job
yet? - Sapphire asked. – Was she lucky with that fashion designer?
His
older brother informed him and when he mentioned that the girl had arrived late
the first day Sapphire could not help laughing to sentence fun.
-Very much like her!
-I assure you that she
has changed a lot - Diamond replied with a smile.-
-Yes, we saw it when
you were here. I wish you to be very happy brother, as much as I am with Petz.
- He answered adding fun. - I also put Roy's advice into practice. You know,
the intelligent use of the good songs of the Corner...
Diamond
laughed at that. He asked his younger brother for his life and Sapphire told
him that both he and his girlfriend were very happy. She worked hard at the
shop and he worked as an engineer. Even so they had time to spend it together and
from time to time they met with some of the sailors. Especially with Makoto,
who was Petz's closest friend. After a little more conversation remembering
past experiences with his friends and some other battle, they said goodbye. The
following days Diamond and Emerald were very busy. In fact they met each other
less every time, until it was time to travel to Japan. Fortunately Madame
Deveraux granted the girl a few days. The strangest thing is that the old lady
did not ask her any more questions about why she had to leave. Of course, she
asked her to take advantage of her free time and sketch some other design, to
which her pupil committed. On the other hand, those designs that Emerald
brought the day that she arrived late appeared to have misplaced. Luckily the
girl had copies. Anyway she did not think about it when she packed, and with her
boyfriend she arrived in Tokyo. She was glad to see Usagi and Cat Luna there,
along with Petz and Sapphire, they had come to greet them.
-Hello. How about
France? Have you eaten many croissants? - Inquired the blond girl as a
greeting.
-Oh, what a cross, what
a cross, what a cross! - The cat sighed, shaking her head.-
Without paying
attention to that, Emerald smiled nodding with amused complicity...
-I confess I do. They
are almost as addictive as cakes. But I must be careful, they get fat enough...
-Hello and thank you
for coming to receive us. - Said Diamond who immediately embraced his brother
and Petz and kissed a hand of Usagi with great deference adding. - It is an
honor for us that you have deigned to accompany my brother and Petz.
-You make me blush! -
Smiled that girl. - You do not have to be so protocolary. - She asked now with
a more serene tone.-
-You're the Queen of
the Earth, - replied Diamond. - It's the least you deserve. -
-Not yet. - Usagi
smiled, correcting him with humor and even affection. - I'm just your friend
now. That's the title that matters most to me.
-And we are much
honored that you call us that. - Emerald said. - I assure you it's mutual.
And
the new arrival did not miss an opportunity to tell that girl what happened,
while they went home she consulted.
- Do you think it will
be possible? Give Kaori a second chance, as I have had.
-I do not see why it
could not be – Replied Usagi. - If she really fights to earn it.
-Yes, it's not a crazy
idea. - Luna agreed for once. -
They talked a long time about that
and also about how things were going. Emerald promised Usagi that she would
design some dress for her. That produced the consequent enthusiasm of the girl.
Then she said goodbye on the grounds that she had stayed with the girls. So the
two brothers and their respective girlfriends went to the house of Petz and Sapphire.
From there, once the group left their luggage, they headed for the planetarium.
It was officially closed for renovation. However, once inside the situation was
quite different. There Professor Tomoe waited there, a tall man, almost as much
as Diamond, with almost platinum white hair, although that man was still young.
In fact, he was very much like the prince of Nemesis himself. They both looked
like brothers when they were together. Also awaited the sailors Uranus and
Neptune in their civil identities.
-Everything is ready. -
The scientist announced them. -
-What do we have to do?
- Diamond wanted to know.-
The
young man was watching with curiosity a kind of cabin connected to computers
which was what most attracted attention in that room. He supposed it would be
of some use, perhaps it was some sort of means of transport.
-First of all, check if
we can make a connection, - his younger brother explained. - You are the only
one who has gotten into a similar space. You must be the one who connects to
that machine and tries to communicate.
As
Diamond told his brother something about the training to which he was subjected
by High Cloud, Sapphire in turn clarified.
-You will see. The key
is that you can introduce your consciousness into that machine so that you
serve as a link between our dimension and that. You are the only one with
enough energy and training to get it. But I warn you one thing. It could be
very dangerous, if something failed your spirit would run the risk of staying
there and your body would be an empty shell forever.
Hearing
these words, they all shuddered, especially Emerald, who started to think it
was not a good idea to have her boyfriend take off on that adventure.
-Are you willing to
risk that for a complete stranger? - Petz asked, looking at him in surprise. -
The prince
glanced back at her and responded with reflection.
-In the past, or I do
not know if to say in the future, it was I who allowed a lot of people,
including you, to sacrifice for me. Now I know that you must do what you can to
help others. The welfare of my subjects and their happiness. That was my true
dream, before being corrupted by the perfidy of the Wiseman. And now I can
finish paying that moral debt.
-Damn it, sweetheart! -
Emerald could tell, visibly worried. - I'm scared. This is all my fault, if I
had not insisted...
-Do not worry, I'll be
careful. - He replied, stroking the girl's chin gently. - And when this is all
over, we'll be together again.
Petz
shivered at the sound of it. It was almost the same words that Sapphire told
her when, badly wounded, that late night came out of his apartment, to try to
talk to his brother and obtained death at the hands of the Wise in return. She
shook her head in fear but she did not dare to say anything to the rest of the
group. She only silently asked for Diamond to have more luck this time than his
then-unfortunate younger brother.
-In that case, when
you're ready, we'll explain what to do - Tomoe interrupted. -
-Whenever you want,
doctor. - Diamond agreed with an energetic nod. -
-We'll connect a kind
of helmet with electrodes to your brain. - Explained the scientist in more
detail. - Then the machine and you will adjust. You will open the virtual field
that will take you to that Tau space, or whatever it is called. Your brother
and I will be monitoring your physical condition and the state of the device
continuously. We have a kind of emergency command to abort the mission in case
we believe your life or your spirit could be in danger.
-Then there's nothing
more to talk about. - His interlocutor said as Sapphire helped him to adjust
his helmet. -
-No! - Cried Emerald
running to interpose, as she begged to open her arms as if she wanted to
protect her boyfriend from the rest. - I beg you. - Diamond, please ... I do
not want to lose you. I am sorry. May Kaori forgive me ... But...
However
it was her boyfriend who hugged her trying to calm her and then stroked her
chin and declare as the girl shed tears full of fear and anxiety.
-You must fear nothing for
me. I'm sure I will do it. More difficult things I have faced. And I firmly
believe it is worth to be done.
-Promise me that at the
lowest risk for you, you will return - she asked with patent distress.-
-I promise I'll come
back to you. And you know that I always keep my promises. - The boy smiled.-
Emerald
seemed to calm down and nodded slowly. Petz placed both hands on her friend's
shoulders and gently pushed her away. After doing this and connecting the
electrodes to the prince's temples, Tomoe switched on the device. Sapphire
began to program a series of commands and Diamond started with her relaxation
and concentration exercises. The alpha waves of his brain went into beta as
Sapphire asked Emerald and Petz.
-You must leave and get
room. - It would not be good if your electromagnetic field interfered with his.
The
two obeyed immediately, though Emerald with some reluctance. She still did not
want to let him part. Now she was very afraid. What if something went wrong and
now that she came back to life she lost him? But she forced herself to try to
be optimistic after hearing the words of her boyfriend. If anyone could do
that, it was Diamond. He could rescue her, surely he could repeat the feat with
Kaori. And this seemed to be more controlled than the mystical experience they
had both on that rugged mountain with the shaman.
-I'm sorry - she
whispered to Petz. - I've made a scene. Like in the old days, right?
-No, my dear - Her
interlocutor smiled, confessing unobtrusively. - Nothing that I did not do when
Sapphire left my side that time he wanted to warn Diamond about the Wiseman.
It's normal, you love your boyfriend the same as I love mine. But have faith in
him. - She concluded in a more courageous way. - Now he is not alone in this,
neither you are.
Emerald
wanted to trust that. She wanted it and prayed with all her soul to make things
right. At that she was thinking about when the door of the room opened and
passed Haruka, Setsuna and Michiru. They had also been summoned, although they
regretted the delay. The two sailors had gone to find their mate Pluto who had
come from Hotaru´s house. Setsuna was clutching what looked like clothes
hanging from her right arm. Especially some blouses and skirts. Michiru was
carrying a suitcase that her companion had also brought, which she placed on a
table in the room. Opening it all they saw that it contained underwear and
other elements of dress and feminine complements. The sailor smiled and cleared
the rest.
-Considering what you
told us about your experience, Emerald, we have considered it more decorous to
bring this. I guess when Diamond succeeds the gentlemen will be so kind to
retire.
-Ahem! Of course - Tomoe
managed to clear he seemed to have blushed slightly as he appeared to observe
only the measurements of Diamond's encephalogram on the computer screen. -
We'll give you the whole room...
-Kaori´s size, if I
remember correctly, would be Setsuna's or yours, Emerald. - Added Haruka who
smiled proudly to affirm. - I'm pretty good at calculating woman-to-eye sizes.
The
girls looked at each other in amusement now, though Emerald immediately wiped
away that shy smile that focused on her gaze, staring at the still body and the
face of her boyfriend, who had now closed his eyes ... Aware of this, Petz offered
her a hand that she clung.
-Protect him, please - Emerald
mused, reminding the angel to take her out of the other world. -Bring them back
to us both.
Oblivious
to everything that happened outside, Diamond was now moving through a kind of
nebula. All around him was black, the only thing that could guide him was the
glittering glow of some little lights that looked like stars. Concentrating his
aura and his spiritual essence he recognized that this site was another
existential plane. However different, of course, to the hell he had previously
entered. Suddenly he came across a door that looked very similar to a
laboratory. He tried to detect some cheating or deception but it did not seem
to be. Finally he opened the door. Behind it a long corridor hardly illuminated
by a pinkish glow. He walked through it until he reached another door with a
five-pointed black star engraved. He unceremoniously opened it to find a large
room with overhead lighting filled with test tubes and probes, and within a few
yards the shadowy figure of a man who seemed to be conducting an experiment. To
Diamond, this guy was familiar, he could see his white coat well, but there was
only darkness at his face. They emphasized that, the brightness of two round
eye-like lenses and an elongated mouth curved upwards. This man, of course,
seemed to be in a good mood, and he laughed as he murmured in a somewhat
hoarse, guttural voice.
-Oh! The stars know
everything, yes sir.
-Doctor Tomoe? - Diamond
tried to guess, with surprise, addressing that stranger. -
-Who is there? - He
replied, turning his curious face toward him now. -
-I do not want to bother
you with your experiments - said his interlocutor realizing that this guy would
be far from being the real Tomoe. - I was asking about your assistant.
-Oh! This Kaori, it is
tea time! - He exclaimed raising his arms towards the sky to add before an
astonished Diamond. - How are the assistants today? Pay close attention to me,
and ask for referrals before hiring anyone. By the way, who are you?
-Oh, no one of
importance. - The prince could say that, decided to try to gain some time and
coming out with. -Well, Master Pharaoh Ninety have sent me a message. It was
for you, ask how your investigations go.
-Oh! - Replied the man
with reflective tone. - That means I do not have much time left. The Master
will demand results. You do not know how bad mood he has when we do not meet
deadlines. Kaori! - He shouted again like a possessed man. - I want my cup of
tea!
-Do not worry. Keep
working here and I'll get it. - His interlocutor reassured him. - We do not
want the Master to dislike. True?
-Thank you. It is very
kind of you. - Replied the individual who was already overturned in his
experiments. - Get a coffee too.
Diamond
sighed, at least that being was completely insane. Or so it seemed. The information
that the warriors had given to him before embarking on that adventure had been
very useful. So pus rushed out of that laboratory only to find himself in a
large room with countless fluffy bodies lying around. They all had a face like
the one he had seen on the guy's face, and a black five-pointed star drawn on
their foreheads. To his surprise and horror, that bastard reappeared at the
other end of the room and spilling a test tube containing some sort of pinkish
liquid screamed.
-Here's my latest
discovery!
And
a wave of steam of the same tone rose up into the air, inflating those gumballs
that were on the floor. Immediately they all got up yelling mad and attacking Diamond,
he barely had time to dodge them. He even threw beams of mystical energy that
destroyed them, but for each one that eliminated another reappeared. That way
it would be impossible to get out ...
In the control room,
Tomoe noted that Diamond's vital constants were beginning to be irregular.
-There must be some
problem, - the scientist said to Sapphire, who nodded.-
-We'll watch him, if he
gets worse, we'll get him out of there. - He agreed. -
Diamond
managed to keep those monsters away long enough to win his access to a door
that was also engraved by that strange star and entered. He snorted relieved,
but suddenly a feminine voice told him full of relief.
-It's a good thing
you've arrived, Doctor. We were missing one to play twister!
As
he watched in astonishment he observed the silhouettes of four women, though
their faces were not visible. He could only perceive that they wore a kind of
laboratory robes and that on the floor, and that it was perfectly discernible,
even with colors, appeared a kind of tablecloth full of drawings of circles of
shades of green, blue, red, yellow, etc. . One of those girls was lying down,
posing one foot in a red circle and the opposite hand on a yellow circle. Then
he heard another of them speaking.
- Right on green
circle, left hand on red circle. It's up to you, doctor.
Apparently
they were referring to him. The boy forced himself to look more closely at that
tablecloth with his spiritual perceptions, but what he could see horrified him.
Now, instead of circles of color, he could see holes from which came repulsive
insects, or brambles with sharp spines. He hesitated a little and then, as an
inspiration that had come to his mind, he shouted, imitating the old guy.
-It's tea time. Nobody
has brought the biscuits!
That
seemed to sow confusion. One of those strange-looking girls, with a long braid
that now seemed to glow in the bluish tones of one side of her head, hurried to
apologize.
-I'm sorry, it was my
turn! I forgot, the game was so interesting!
The
other figures quickly placed a table with five chairs, arranged in the shape of
a pentacle. One of them, the apex facing down, was offered to Diamond by the
silhouette of a short-haired girl whose tone seemed a color similar to the
prince's own hair, although somewhat bluer. He declined kindly arguing that he
had to go for tea. He managed to exit through another door that also had a
black five-pointed star engraved. Now he stepped into a large room with
well-lit white walls. He could see a woman with long red hair in a violet dress
who was busy preparing coffee in an espresso machine. The girl kept repeating
aloud and tone of tribulation.
-I have to make coffee
for the doctor! The doctor asked me to make coffee for the visitors.
Diamond
approached her. He could not be sure, but he dared to say softly touching a
shoulder of that girl.
-Kaori?
-Yes? - She could
reply, watching him as if she knew him, adding immediately. – The coffee is
almost ready, doctor. I'll bring it to Hotaru right now.
Tomoe
and Sapphire were relieved when the Diamond constants regained regularity.
Women too. Emerald walked visibly uneasily. It was Petz who, taking her by a
hand again, whispered in a lively tint.
-He's doing well. Do
not worry, he will succeed.
-I hope so. - Answered
her interlocutor trying to relax her tension. -
Meanwhile
the object of her concern recognized that voice as the anonymous one that
helped him so much. So he took that girl's shoulders and pulled her towards him
and said in a kind, almost paternal tone.
-It's all right, Kaori,
you have to come with me.
-But doctor. There is
still a lot to do, I have to bake some cookies and...
-Look me in the eye and
just concentrate on my voice. Think about what happens and focus on your
willingness to get out of here. - Diamond ordered her now in a more persuasive
tone, employing some of the techniques that High Cloud had taught him. - Remember
who you are and what you really want.
The
girl obeyed. After a few moments when both eyes met, she blinked, now she
seemed dazed, as if she had awakened from a deep sleep. Then she spoke again,
but in a different tone. More fearful, to warn her interlocutor.
-It's you? The one that
the angel promised would save me.
And
the girl suddenly remembered. Like a flash to her memory came the moments later
to separate of Emerald. In the midst of that darkness a great shape that shone
with a mauve glow appeared. He was a tall hooded man with a stony face. Kaori
could not look into his eyes, for they glowed like coals. The terrified girl
threw herself on her knees to the floor, looking down at the floor.
-I beg. Have mercy on
me ... She asked with a groan.-
-Do not fear anything
from me. - It was the reply of that being with a sweetness that did not fit his
sinister appearance. - I came to give you some good news. Your friend has
offered her position so that you are free ...
-How? - The astonished
girl could reply, slowly rising to her feet. - Emerald?
-You must let your true
love guide you. – That entity explained to her.- So you will be free ...
Kaorinite
nodded. That's what she had wanted. She could see how her robe had turned white
too. Now she felt herself ascending into that blackness where her friend had
disappeared earlier. She even came to see her, hugging that huge being. They
spoke and Emerald asked her to make her love, that Prince Diamond, happy. She was
sincere then. She could not love anyone other than the doctor. In spite of
this, it rose towards a zenith that gave way to an immaculate glow. Then,
barely aware, she found herself naked on a sandy soil. She barely opened her
eyes and saw an old man watching her in surprise. However she noticed As her
body faded. She felt transported again ... quickly had the intuition of where. She
hardly had time to mumble ...
-Tau!
So
she reappeared in that laboratory room, where she had worked so close to the
doctor. But now it was not him. It was that Germanoid. Desperate, she realized
that she had returned to that hell. But the one of her dimension of origin.
There were the essences of the warriors of her nebula, in the form of the
humans they had possessed. She herself did not remember what her original
appearance was like. In fact she felt as if she had always been Kaori. The
laboratory assistant to that eminent scientist. She tried to contact Emerald
without succeeding. Only after some time of patient practice she could dominate
her aura to be able to talk to her in the dreams of her friend. Then she
remembered nothing of what had happened until then. Noe she wanted to warn her
savior.
-You must be
careful, we are deep in this hell.
-Do you know how to get
out of it? - The boy wanted to know that he was looking at her with interest
and concern. -
-I need a light to
guide me.- The girl seemed to be very confused. -
Diamond
was thoughtful, something told him that he had to communicate with the doctor
and his brother, but he did not know how. Then he seemed to have an intuition.
It concentrated ...
-Let´s see if this
works - he said to his interlocutor.
The
boy's vital signs began to become irregular again. This was very strange, a
kind of tachycardia that seriously worried Tomoe .
-We have to get him out
of there!" -Urged the professor. -
Sapphire
himself was going to arrange the resuscitation protocol when he stared for a
second more at that peculiar picture. Then something told him to pay a little
more attention and exclaimed addressing the group.
-Look! Do not you
notice some kind of code here?
Setsuna
agreed, approaching the screen.
- They are like sequences,
it seems the work of something intelligent. It's not like a normal arrhythmia.
-It's Morse code! -
Haruka exclaimed, reading that carefully. - He's telling us something.
-Good for my brother! -
He really learned a lot in the Corner with Roy and the others. -Sapphire
smiled, who, together with Uranus, interpreted that quickly. -
-May the doctor shake
hands with me!- They said in unison.-
Tomoe was surprised,
but he obeyed immediately, grabbing Diamond's right hand with his left.
-Is that all right? -
The astonished scientist inquired.-
The
prince of Nemesis was sweating copiously, that physical effort seemed to take
his toll on that other dimension. Then a glow shone in the back of that room.
Both he and Kaori looked there and the girl smiled broadly as she recognized
from that light.
-It's the doctor! It's
his face.
-We have to go there. -
Diamond indicated the girl who was ready to it. -
But
just then, on the opposite side, that madman with a gown entered the room
accompanied by the female silhouettes of before and several of those beings of
nightmare, to the cry of.
-Kaori. You forgot tea
time! That is unforgivable. You'll have to suffer ... ha, ha, ha ...Eternally…
The
girl dilated her pupils, watching those apparitions with terror. Diamond did
not think twice. He grabbed her by the hand and dragged her to the other end of
the room. In the meantime they were pursued by those monsters who howled and
bellowed wildly chanting.
-Tea, tea! It's tea
time.
The boy did not think
it, stared at Kaori and snapped.
-Crosses. Now!
-And you?- She asked
with visible concern. -
-Behind you, I have to
stop them. If I do not ... Tell Emerald that I love her. -He was able to
sentence, telling Kaori while he pointed at that glow. - Come on!
Those
strange beings fell upon him. Diamond resorted to his mystical reserves and
emitted a powerful wave of energy that destroyed several of them, but soon they
appeared more and more ... He saw that that glow began to weaken and that was
his only exit door. The last chance to escape.
-Dammit! I must find a
solution.- I thought with increasing urgency.-
In
the room of the planetarium that cabin connected to the printer was illuminated
with a silver glow. It was so intense that it blinded them all for a few moments.
A few seconds later, Emerald thought she could distinguish a silhouette that
was being sculpted at high speed by that machine. It was as if that glow had
condensed in an ever more definite form.
-Something is coming
out of there!- exclaimed the girl while Haruka, Michiru and Setsuna were
approaching that machine. -
-Diamond's pulse
quickens, it's too high! - Shouted Sapphire, sounding the alarm. - Doctor,
quickly, you have to get him out of there.
But
although the boy activated the protocols, they did not seem to work. The boy's
blood pressure rose and the waves in his brain weakened. It was almost to the
limit of his resistance.
-Damn it, brother! - Sapphire
exclaimed at the horror of Emerald and Petz, and the obvious concern of the
rest. - You have to react!"
Diamond
held a fierce combat in that dimension. However much he emitted power and
annihilated these beasts, many more replaced them. Suddenly a word illuminated
his mind, and following the previous procedure he transmitted it to the real world.
Sapphire spoke that word aloud. Immediately the three outer sailors looked at
each other in unison.
-Talisman!
-Take care of this. -
Haruka pointed out to Petz and Emerald, alluding to the machine that continued
with its frantic activity of modeling a feminine shape inside. - We'll get him
out of there.
All
the three sailors were transformed. Then each warrior produced a kind of
luminous object invoking it from nowhere. A mirror, a sword and an orb floated
before them. Without hesitation, they laid one hand each on Diamond's left
hand. The boy could perceive a great force. Before him a mirror materialized
with which he could eliminate these beings as they reflected on him. And
finally with a sword that appeared before him, finished that madman of the gown
nailing it in the head. This one, with a horrible howl, exploded. The exhausted
prince retrieved that weapon and then a maroon orb appeared before him, Diamond
grabbed it and that glowed in a scarlet tone propelling him into that bright
light through which he had pushed Kaori just moments before ...
-Come on! he said
trying to concentrate his aura as much as he closed her eyes. "I must get
it ..."
The
prince opened his eyes and choked out a gasping gasp. He could hardly look at a
fixed point since he felt dizzy. His brother and Tomoe held him for a moment.
Fortunately, that feeling was receding and he found that both Setsuna, Michiru
and Haruka were holding him the hand. Sapphire was also with him, and the doctor
himself seemed to be checking him with two fingers over his carotid artery as
he declared with visible satisfaction and relief.
-The pulse is normal
again.
-A little trip you've
got, friend! - his brother smiled with visible relief. -
Diamond admitted that
he immediately asked.
- And What about Kaori?
Emerald ran to embrace
him and sighed almost sobbing.
-Thank God you are
okay! I could not have endured losing you.
-I promised you, - he
replied, stroking the long, silky green bottle-colored hair of the girl and
smiling. - And you know that I always keep my word.
She
nodded with a big smile now. At that moment the laboratory machine stopped
working, the glow slowly fading away. After eased her worry about the well-being of her boyfriend Emerald went there and
cautiously opened the door. She barely had time to hold the naked body of that
redheaded girl who, unconscious, fell laxly on her arms. Petz ran to help her.
Between the two of them lay her down and quickly covered her with clothes.
Setsuna joined them and joining forces, the three of them climbed that young
woman to a stretcher that had been predictably placed there.
-Kaori, can you hear
me? - A frightened Emerald asked the girl who seemed to be unconscious. -
Answer please. My friend ... let's go! You have to react.
Tomoe
approached her and also took her pulse by gently holding one of the girl's pale
wrists. Even as he did so, she seemed to revive her touch, opened her eyes and
could muster in a tone tinged with affection and emotion that her interlocutor
did not catch.
- Thank you Doctor.
-Oh! You do not have to
thank me. - He smiled slightly, which he explained in his usual scientific
tone. - I have not done anything in particular miss, I just took your vital
signs.
Yet
the look of gratitude and the smile of that woman made him blush slightly. It
also helped that the generous breasts of that stranger were clearly marked
under a blouse that the girls had hurriedly placed over her. Aware of this,
Tomoe looked away and walked away to try to turn the system off. Or at least
pretend he was doing something in order to do not show that he felt that way.
-Are you all right,
dear? - Emerald was interested, running once more beside her boyfriend. - Have
you had enough of that?
-I've never been
better.- He said with conviction as he winked an eye at her.-
But
perhaps that was not enough for him, because she kissed him hard on the lips to
prove it. Diamond responded to that and the rest simply looked away as if
nothing was happening. In the meantime, with a Sapphire and a Tomoe playing
whom held more with their eyes closed, the other girls dressed Kaori.
-I think this fits well
with your type and your size. - Michiru said passing a yellow blouse and a red
skirt to the girl. -
This
one nodded and after putting on her some of the underwear that provided Setsuna,
they completed her clothes with those garments and a pair of red heels that
Petz had brought her. Fortunately the size seemed to go well.
-Thank you all very
much. I do not know how I can repay you.
-Thank them.- Haruka asked
pointed to the couple. -
The
alluded ones had not yet finished with their display of affection, although
luckily the nature of the same had already lowered the tone significantly,
staying in the ground of mutual caresses on the face and hair. At last they
both noticed that they were now the center of the eyes and certainly blushing
joined the rest of the group. Kaori then embraced Emerald and with sobs could
say in a choppy way.
-Thank you, my friend!
Thank you so much for everything!
-I'm very happy that
you're here. We promised and we have fulfilled it. - Replicated she also trying
not to get too excited. - We have succeeded, we both have achieved our dream!
...
Kaori also addressed
Sapphire and Diamond and smiled to them to add in the same way.
-I will never forget
what you have done for me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Especially
you, Diamond.
-It has been a
pleasure. I hope you can start a new life and that you are very happy. -He
added with a sideways glance at the doctor, who, still busy with the latest
disconnections of the team, had not noticed it. – I wish you good luck.
Setsuna
then went to Kaori and made an aside with her to explain.
-Listen. Tomoe lost her
memory. He does not remember you as you have seen. It would not be advisable to
try to awaken in him any kind of memory about witches or what happened then. Do
you understand?
The girl nodded slowly
to confess her interlocutor.
-I wish I could forget
it, too. I envy him for forgetting that. My greatest wish would be to be with
him as two normal people. Without any remorse or burden for the misdeeds we did
in the past.
-You must have
patience, and forgive yourself. - Setsuna advised her interlocutor, to add .-
You have already paid for all that. And now you have the opportunity that you
had wanted so much. Emerald told us that just as she did thinking about
Diamond, you clung to the memory of your feelings for the doctor to endure all
that. Ok, he is here now. And you too.
-Yes. - She agreed with
her companion, declaring in a low voice. - When the Germanoid did not possess
him, he was a good man, gentle and considerate, who gave me affection and
understanding. That's what really made me fall in love with him. That kept me
sane in the middle of so much horror. And it was what showed me that even the heart
of a being as abject as I could feel something good. To be able to illuminate
my soul with a light, even if it were very small, of hope.
That
made Setsuna smile, giving her listener a friendly slap on the shoulder. At the
same time she admitted satisfied.
-Emerald was not wrong
with you. You really have changed.
-I feel weird. - Commented
the girl who really felt very weak and tired and said so .- I do not know what
happens to me.
-You're human now -
Pluto explained. - And therefore you have to adapt, I suppose you will have to
eat and sleep. Your organism is now mortal again and it is reminding you that.
-She needs to be able
to rest somewhere. - Michiru said.-
-Let's take care of
that, - Haruka added.
Sure
enough, the girls were taking Kaori somewhere so she could settle in, at least
for the first few days. Petz and Sapphire offered their apartment and the girl
stayed with the couple. Emerald and Diamond, who still had some free days,
regularly went to see her. Especially her old companion in Hell sometimes
accompanied Setsuna. The sailor tried to help her with her work because, true
to the promise she made to her boss, Emerald was trying to design some new
sketches. Curiously, Kaori told her about how she dressed in Tau and gave her
such good descriptions thanks to which her friend was able to outline several
suits. One afternoon, together with Petz and Setsuna, (since Haruka and Michiru
could not be found), the four of them met in Petz's apartment. Emerald had
designed some dresses and without missing an instant she had faxed them to her
boss. The old woman nodded and told the girl that she would like her to make
some patterns and fabrics to sew them on. The girl, with visible enthusiasm,
asked her to let her try before returning to see what she could do in Japan
with the girl (of whom she did not want to reveal much) who had given her many
of those ideas. So, as soon as she could, Emerald showed the sketches to her
friend.
-Yes. They were very
similar to these. - Kaori nodded approvingly. -
-We have a good fabric
store in this area. - Petz commented that the neighborhood was well known to
her - We could buy some and sew a couple of dresses.
-Would be great! -
agreed an enthusiastic Setsuna that rarely had the time and friends to dedicate
to her favorite hobby. - I'm looking forward to doing it.
And
so they did. That afternoon and thanks to the expertise demonstrated by Pluto
and Emerald sewed a suit that both insisted that it should be premiered by
Kaori. The girl was somewhat remiss, but they persuaded her with arguments of
weight as.
-Look, we made it for
you, you're the one who gave me the idea - Emerald insisted. -
-You're going to look
great, the saffron color makes your hair very nice. - Setsuna said. -
-I really want to see
how you look - Petz rifled, leaving no room for the refusal. -
-All right - Accepted
the young woman .- I feel a little silly ... Do you really believe that I will
be pretty? ...
-It will suit you! - Emerald
encouraged her without letting her finish the sentence.-
Obediently
Kaori put it on. Truth was she was beautiful, picked up her long hair in a
braid that Petz did in the style of her sister Beruche. Emerald had brought a
camera as if she had that idea already premeditated and asked her friend to let
herself take some photos. In this way, completing the set with some red shoes. So
following the instructions of her friend, Kaori posed as a model and certainly
did not do it wrong. Smiling, Setsuna was the one who commented.
-I think Kaorinite
could go to work with you, Emerald. You make a good tandem.
-Yes, it's true, my
dear. – The model agreed by addressing his friend. - You have talent as the
boss would say.
-I do not think that's
my cup of tea. - Replied the girl with some redness. - I'd like to work on
something related to the investigation. But I do not deny that would be a nice
experience. -She finished with a friendly smile. -
Meanwhile
Petz came out of the room for a moment. Sapphire had returned and she spent a
few moments talking to him. It seemed that the boy was telling her great news
as his girlfriend uttered a visibly pleased exclamation and hugged him. The boy
lifted her even in his arms. After kissing a little, in the margin of their
curious companions, who, of course, had heard the noise and exclamations, Petz
returned holding hands with his boyfriend. Then, after a smiling nod from him,
she winked at them all and demanded their attention to unveil.
-Keep the secret for
now. But Sapphire just told me that this morning he has received a fabulous
offer from an American millionaire to work in his companies. He has also given
carte blanche to lead his own team of scientists.
-I've talked to Tomoe,
I've told him the proposal and he's accepted. - Affirmed the young man.-
It
was to hear the reference to the scientist and the pulse of Kaorinite
accelerated. She had not seen him since that day when she was rescued. And she
did not know how to approach him. Nevertheless, she had preferred to wait until
she had adjusted to her new life and for now she enjoyed the friendship of Emerald
and the others. But now her heart was beating fast. Even more so when Petz
commented.
-And that's not all.
Right, sweetie?
-You're right,-
Sapphire agreed, adding visibly amused. - I've also asked my new boss, Mr.
Masters, to hire a certain redheaded girl we all know.
-Really! - Kaori
exclaimed logically deducing that she was the girl to whom it was alluded. -
-That's only if she
agrees, - the boy rifled, asking the surprised girl in the corner. - Well, Miss
Kaori Night? What do you say to me?
-Kaori Night! - She
stared at him without understanding.-
-Some name and surname
had to give you, and I could not think of any. But in saying your full name they
must have thought that they were both and that they were written like this. -
Laughed the boy, causing the rest to laugh with him. – My mistake in
pronunciation maybe.
-I'll be delighted,-
she smiled, embracing the boy with joy at the embarrassment of Sapphire, the
funny faces of Emerald and Setsuna, and the not-so-amused Petz who thought that
hug was too tight and over-long. - Thank you very much!…
But
finally Kaori let go of the boy. That was great news that they would have to
celebrate. For now they would still work in Japan, that magnate had one of his
affiliates there. They decided to go out for dinner, although Setsuna
regretting it a lot told them that she already had a previous commitment. So
the four of them left, and after calling Diamond, it became an evening of five.
Unfortunately it was also a farewell, although momentary. Emerald and her
boyfriend were returning to Paris. Of course, she took the suit and some other
photo of Kaori wearing it.
-I'm going to miss you
a lot,- sighed an excited Kaorinite with tears in her eyes.-
-But now you will not
be alone in a gloomy place. You are going to start a new life. And it will be
an exciting challenge. You'll see. -Emerald encouraged her.-
-All of us have
confidence in the future. - Added Diamond.-
-I'll have it too. -
Thanks to you. - She nodded and saying really touched. - I owe you everything
...
-No, You owe me nothing,-
the prince denied. - You owe it to yourself. Now, I'll give you the same advice
that the sailors gave us. Use your gifts to help others. Build something
beautiful with your skills.
Kaori
agreed on that with a big smile. She gave Sapphire and Petz a few hugs, as well
as Diamond, whom he also presented with a light kiss on the lips to the boy's
amazement and a half-smile, an accomplice of Emerald, who said in a slightly
mellow tone.
-Should I be jealous,
dear?
Diamond
was going to reply but to his astonishment and the other witnesses it was Kaori
who anticipated him embracing Emerald and whispering in an indeterminate tone
of seductive joviality.
-I have not forgotten
you ... my love.
And
to the astonishment of the others, both merged in a passionate kiss, catching
the lips of one in those of the other. After separating and giving herself an
affectionate hug, it was the prince of Nemesis who smiled paraphrasing his
girlfriend.
-Should I be the one to
become jealous, sweetheart?
-Your relationship is
safe.- Kaori smiled after separating
from her friend. - After what I've been through I would never stand between two
people who love each other ...
- Especially because
you also have someone very special to love. - Completed Emerald.-
-I wish I could make it
happen! - Sighed the young redhead.-
-Have faith. Sure a girl
like you will not leave him indifferent.- Said Petz.-
-Although the doctor is
very distracted, that yes.- Smiled Sapphire adding fun.- You cannot be
discouraged if at the beginning he does not know.
His
girlfriend nudged him and he protested with delight. It dragged the others who
laughed. In this way they said goodbye and the next day Diamond and Emerald
flew back to France. As soon as they arrived and she went to work, Madame
Deveraux summoned her in her office. As soon as she saw those photos that old
woman insisted to Emerald. She has to bring that girl to Paris.
-I'm sorry, ma'am.- She
apologized. - But my friend is not a designer and she is not interested in
being a model. It's scientific. She lives in Tokyo and works there.
-Well, do not discard
that when I go there I make her an offer. - Said the old woman in a tone quite
affable for what used to. - And you know that I am very difficult to refuse ...
Emerald
nodded, smiling, but soon Madame Deveraux's expression changed to become more
severe. The girl perceived it and even became alarmed, hoped that she would not
have to be scolded for something she had done wrong or stopped doing. Despite
their fears, at least in that, they were unfounded and the old woman told her.
-Listen, girl. Do you
remember those sketches you told me you had brought here and misplaced?
-Yes, ma'am. I left
them just for a moment. - She could reply, although her boss interrupted her
with a gesture from one of her hands and told her. -
-Well, I've seen them,
rather. I recognized your style. And do not you guess where I've been able to
see them?
Her
bewildered interlocutor shook her head, waiting for an answer that came like a
jug of cold water.
-At a Goldpier parade. This morning by the fashion channel.
-How? - Exclaimed the
visibly indignant girl. – Are you telling me they stole my designs?
The
old woman looked at her inquiringly, as if now she seemed relieved to dismiss
something she had suspected, but finally she smiled encouragingly at the girl
to say.
-Do not worry. It's
nothing weird coming from a bastard like him. And I'll tell you the truth. I do
not trust anyone and I suspected that you could have sold them or had a deal
with him to inform them from the inside.
-I? But how can you
believe? - She could actually reply, shocked and even offended as she put her
hand to her breast and sentenced her. - I would never do that. You have been
very good to me and I do not want to act like that, not anymore, -she added,
muttering to herself. -
-Do not worry, young
lady, I believe you. Just to see the glitter of your eyes is enough. That's
what I wanted to check. - Madame Deveraux confided her. - Because in this profession
you cannot trust anything or anyone. That's another tip I give you. Remember it
well always because I have put much hopes in you. Only trust those who show you
your loyalty and yet, always remain vigilant. And never, never forgive a
betrayal. That's the only thing you need to be unyielding about.
Her pupil nodded,
assimilating those tips. Once she did, he took the floor.
-What can we do? -
Asked the beleaguered Emerald. -
-Nothing now, but don´t
worry, the time will come to settle the accounts with that worm. - Said Mrs.
Deveraux, who changed again a third with more care to warn her. - And never let
anger or wrath cloud your mind or expression before your enemies. Keep in mind
that this world is about appearances. Keep them always. There will be an opportunity
to change the background. Do you understand, girl?
-Yes, ma'am. - She
answered that to her misfortune she understood it too well, that was like in
the court of Nemesis. - I will not forget it.
"We'll leave this
for now. Go back to work and do it well. And as soon as you have opportunity
greet that scientific friend of yours from me. - Her boss ordered her as soon
as Emerald said goodbye leaving her office. -
The
young woman did so. Meanwhile, in Japan, Kaori was facing her first day of
work. She was introduced to the laboratory team and to her delight Sapphire
indicated that she would be part of the doctor's division. This one was
surprised to recognize in her the girl that they had rescued.
-Nice to see you again,
- Tomoe could say, shaking the hand of the girl who felt a chill run down her
back. - I did not know you were a laboratory technician.
-It's a great honor to
be able to work for you, doctor.- She answered him with a broad smile. –
-Oh! Do not say that.
Honor and pleasure is mine by having a large group of gifted colleagues. We
have a lot to do and the truth is that we are still landing. - He confessed to
add with more carefree. - Now it's almost break time. If you want to join us.
-I can make an
earl-gray tea myself with chocolate pastries.- The girl offered herself.-
-How do you know? - The
doctor smiled at her in disbelief. - It's my favorite drink. And the pastries
too.
-I do my homework,
Doctor.- She smiled brightly again. -
-Well, then, - said
Sapphire addressing both alongside the other member of the crew. - Well, let's
pause and then work. If I am not mistaken we will have a lot to do and little
time for it. Masters pays very well but demands better yet!
Everyone
agreed on this after laughing at the thought. Days passed and Kaori began to
demonstrate that her knowledge from Tau was of great help. She also made a good
team with the doctor. He was amazed, every time he needed something or wanted
something, that woman seemed to have read his mind. She always anticipated. She
really was a qualified professional. Thus, one afternoon, almost ending, Tomoe
suffered from an old ailment in the shoulder. As he could, he sat down trying
to rub the place that hurt with his other hand. As soon as Kaori saw him, she
hurried to him.
-Wait, doctor, I'll
give you a massage.
-Oh, no, please. - He
could reply feeling ashamed. - Is nothing.
Though
the girl ignored him and laid her hands on his shoulder to rub gently. Tomoe
immediately felt a great relief and could sigh.
-Thank you. It's this damn
shoulder, I do not remember if it was because of my accident, since then it
hurts and sometimes it's quite annoying.
-It's a pleasure for me
to help you, Doctor. - She mumbled that she was visibly red, but she was
thankful that, when she was on her back, the doctor could not see her when she
added. - Whatever you need.
-Please. Call me
Souichi. It's my name. Hey Kaori, excuse my curiosity, but what happened to
you?
-Me? - Said the girl.-
-If ... it was very
strange, you were in that kind of parallel dimension. I figured it was some
accident while you were experimenting. True?
-Yes, something like
that. - She whispered to the young man with a patent apology. - It was an
accident. At least just me was affected.
-I understand, - said
the doctor, who with the most courageous tinge said. - But it was fortunate
that we could get you out of there. Especially in behalf of your family.
-No, I have no one. -
The embarrassed young woman confessed. - My parents have long since disappeared
...
-I'm so sorry, - said
the doctor now with genuine regret, wanting to know. - Are not you married or
having a partner?
-No doctor. - She
replied in a trembling voice, she felt as if a kind of tingling ran through her
stomach now. - I'm single.
-I'm surprised a woman
like you did not have time to choose a suitor.
-My life is my job, -
she answered, feeling more and more self-conscious. -
-I understand you. We
look quite alike. Although I was married, - he revealed, at least that's what
Souichi thought. - Unfortunately, my wife died in the accident I had.
-I am so sorry! - She
said hurriedly.-
-Thank you, it happened
a long time ago. Now I live with my little girl. Well, Hotaru is getting older.
The truth is that by my occupations I see little her enough. Our friends
Haruka, Setsuna and Michiru usually spend a lot of time with her. They are
almost like their informal mothers and fathers. He smiled asking. - You do not
meet her yet, do you?
-Your daughter? No, not
yet. - She lied now feeling rather uncomfortable. –
Although
his interlocutor did not notice that. On the contrary, he seemed to be
encouraged and proposed suddenly, taking the girl by surprise.
-I think you'd get
along. It's happening to me that if you do not have plans this weekend you
could come to my house and have dinner with us. That way you can meet.
-I? Going to your home
? - She stammered and did not really know how to react. -I do not know, it's
...
-If I have seemed too
bold, I beg your pardon. - He hastened to say. - I like that my closest
co-workers being familiar to her. With Sapphire and Petz we have dined
occasionally and with Setsuna and the others too. Even if they do not work
here. I tell you that they are like family.
-I would feel very
honored. - She smiled at last, conquering her suspicion. - I accept delighted.
-Well, it's decided then,
so this Saturday if it suits you,- said the doctor, as he told the girl that
the massage was enough. - Well, let's continue ...
They
returned to work and left the subject. When Kaori finished she said goodbye and
went home. With her first salary she had rented a small studio near the
apartment of Petz and Sapphire. The girl was certainly very happy and this
filled her with even more joy. Could it be that the doctor began to feel
something towards her? She wish it was like that. All those questions he had
asked her about whether she was married or not. Perhaps it could be due to a
simple and genuine curiosity. The truth is that she had reaffirmed her feelings
towards him. Now Tomoe was even kinder and more charming. He had no such
episodes of being overpowered by that terrible creature. Therefore, he always
behaved with a gentleman, gentle and considerate. Sometimes, when he did not
wear his glasses, he was much more handsome. That was what the young woman
thought with growing blush and her heart throbbing loudly. Although everything
was not so ideal and having to face Hotaru worried her. Setsuna, in some
conversation held days ago, had let her glimpse. So far she had had no problems
since she only saw the doctor at work. In fact she spent most of her time
there. In her study she hardly stopped to sleep. The truth is that she had not
taken the measure yet to her life as a human. Almost more due to Petz´s guide
she made the purchase and maintained her house as it was supposed to be done.
Except for one or two teddies that her friends had presented to her and some
objects of decoration she did not have a clear own style in what technically
was her home. It could be said that the emotional ties and more intense
experiences were in her same place of work. Although she could barely sleep
that night thinking about the doctor's invitation. She did not want to bring up
the topic during the week and focused on her tasks. Fortunately the days went
by fast and Saturday came. She showed up at Tomoe's house wearing a beautiful
and somewhat demure thing for what in her wardrobe had been customary, red
dress. The shoes evidently came in handy same color, and her hair was loose in
a long vermilion mane. After getting out of the taxi that led her to the
address, she walked to the door. This was a nice villa with a nice garden plot.
The first thing the girl did was to call a telephone automatic camera that was
in the wall next to the gate that protected the access. Then the doctor's voice
answered.
-I'm glad you have
come. Please get in. - He invited her to the time that there was a buzz that
opened the gate. -
Kaori
stepped into that parcel, stopping only to look at some white flower beds.
After taking out a small hand mirror, she checked the makeup and her appearance
and nodded satisfied. Her friend Petz
had given her a pair of creams with which she assured her that she would be
even more beautiful. She smiled, wishing it was beauty all she needed to make
the doctor fall in love with her. But, of course, the main reason for stopping
for a few seconds was the fear of starting that. She finally decided and
knocked on the door of the house. When she smiled warmly and waited for Tomoe
to receive her, the door opened and the girl was puzzled. There was no one in
front of her! Although that the impression might have lasted for a moment, as she
immediately lowered her gaze to find Hotaru's stern face, as she remembered.
-What have you come
here for? - The girl snapped at her with no consideration. -
-I…your father invited
me. - She could answer her quickly.-
Of
course she felt between surprised and violent and why not say it, fearful of
that child of which she knew her true identity. Even more so when, with a
sardonic smile and even something macabre, her interlocutor commented.
-My father is too good.
He does not deserve to have a bad time or suffer. I do not want to displease
him by telling him the truth about you. I do not know how they could have
brought you back to life, and I do not care. Nor do I understand how you dared
to come here. But if you dare to cause him the slightest problem I swear that
you will deal with me. And you will think Mistress Nine was kind when she
killed you in comparison to what I will do to you. Do you understand? You will
be back in Hell that you should never have left before you can blink.
The
frightened Kaori watched the little girl and her legs trembled. The look that her
eyes gave back to her was streaked with pure hate. Apparently she was only a
twelve-year-old girl, but she could clearly feel her anger and the power that
ran through her. And her last threat made her heart skip a beat. She still
remembered how her malignant evolution, Mistress Nine, had killed her with a
single gesture, and apparently the incarnation of the Saturn Warrior was even
more powerful. Luckily for her, soon enough Tomoe's voice was heard, which must
have come from the back of the corridor behind the entrance.
-Daughter. Has our
visit already arrived?
-Yes Daddy,- replied
the little girl who now wore a cheerful and carefree tone, the one that really
would have to correspond to a small girl of her age, leaving still more troubled
to Kaori. - She's already here, we were chatting...
-Oh, that is nice. Make
her pass, I'll be right back with you. - His father told her.-
Hotaru
merely watched her speaker with disdain and with a gesture of abrupt invitation
with her hand.
-Please, be my guest. -
Sentenced with a good dose of sarcasm. -
Kaori
crossed the threshold but almost seemed to be headed for the place of her
execution. She timidly took a seat on a chair next to a large glass table with
glasses, cutlery and other items for dinner. At that point Tomoe appeared
informally dressed, wearing a white sweater that combined with his hair and
gray corduroy trousers. The doctor gave him a kind smile that greatly relieved
the girl as she apologized.
-Forgive me, I do not
usually dress very elegantly at home, with Hotaru I prefer to be comfortable.
-Oh, do not worry about
it, you're fine. - She affirmed thinking it truly.-
-No. I'm a mess for
these things. I do not usually lavish much on social events. You are very
elegant instead. - Tomoe fulfilled making the girl blush.-
-Thank you very much.
-I see you've met my
little girl. - He added as the girl came submissively to his side and was
surrounded by a tender arm that his father passed lovingly behind her shoulders.
- Hotaru, this lady is my colleague Kaori Night. A great laboratory technique
and my personal assistant.
-Nice to meet you, -
she smirked, nodding as if nothing had happened between them. - Miss Kaori ...
Night.
-Nice to meet you, too.
- Replicate the astonished Kaori to which almost the words were choked to her.
- Hotaru...
The
girl gave her a wicked smile as she looked at her coldly. Then they sat down
with their guest and Hotaru radically changed her expression as she looked at
her father, whom she addressed with a kind face.
-How are things at work,
Dad?
-Oh! very good, sweetie
.- He smiled - Kaori can tell you. We are very busy but it is worth it. We are
making great progress. And in the future we will help many people.
-My father is a very
good man. He Investigate to help others.- The girl said with veiled irony.- And
you, do you the same?
-I tried, really.- The
guest could reply, trying to control her nervousness.-
-Kaori is a magnificent
scientist.- The doctor praised her.- Very competent and always eager to help.
We make a good team, right? - Tomoe asked his assistant sympathetically, as he
sentenced. - Everyone there share the same goals.
The
woman could only nod nervously, more when the girl stood up smiling to ask her
father's permission.
-Can I bring the
dinner? So you're going to talk about your things.
-Of course, sweetheart.
Thank you
The
girl walked away to the kitchen leaving the adults alone, although Kaori was
not very focused on the conversation. Fortunately for her it was the doctor who
opened fire.
-You know? I am very
proud of my daughter. Since she was very young she had to raise without a
mother and although she was rather sickly, for what little I can remember, now
she is wonderful and healthy.
-She looks very
healthy, yes, - said his interlocutor, adding. - And she seems very
intelligent.
-She's doing great at
school, she's very responsible. - The doctor added proudly. - And she has very
good friends here. I hope you'll be one of them soon enough.
-Yes I would like it
very much. - Affirmed the girl really hoping that it was so. - Very much
indeed. -
Soon
Hotaru returned with a large pearl in which smelled a soup that smelled
deliciously.
-It's seafood,- the child
said proudly. - I helped my father to prepare it.
She
let that plate rest on a tablecloth as she held a large ladle, but before she
began to distribute the dishes, his father reminded her with sympathy.
-Honey, remember to
serve our guest first.
-Of course! - Happily
agreed the girl who happened to look sideways at her guest to smile more
faintly but almost imperceptible except for Kaori and smile with a insincere
mellow. - I hope you like it. We made it especially for you.
Although
the guest could hardly swallow saliva now. What if that girl had poisoned the
dinner? Kaori believed her able to do that, considering the look of hate which that
girl gave to her. But no, from that same tureen she was now serving her father
and even throwing herself. Fortunately that fear was unfounded, the soup was
indeed delicious and the second dish, hake medallions, were not left behind.
Kaori could enjoy dinner while they ate, because in front of the doctor, that
child was a prodigy of sweetness and kindness. Another different story was when
they heard the sound of a telephone and Tomoe, apologizing, went to attend. At
that moment Kaori decided to go on the offensive. She was tired of being
intimidated and went straight to the point with that little girl.
- Listen Hotaru, I know
that in the past I behaved very badly with you. But believe me. I'm really
sorry. I learned the lesson. I'm not the woman I was. I beg you to give me a
chance.
-That's what you say, -
the girl replied sullenly to sentence. - Opportunities do not happen, they have
to be won!
-But Sailor Moon always
says...
And
there she could not continue, the girl cut her speech by hitting the table with
a fist.
-Do not you dare to
name Sailor Moon! - You would have killed her if you had had a chance. You are
only here because she is too good and generous, but I am the Warrior of
Destruction. Do not forget that!
Kaori
was pale. That girl did not seem to want to hear her. What's more, she was
telling her clearly who she was and what she could do to her. She had to fight
so that tears did not come out. At least she would not give that brat that
satisfaction.
-You're not only that
but a very good actress, too. - She was able to face the baby - in front of your
father you are someone very different.
-I learned very well
from you,- she replied sarcastically. -
Although,
surprising as it may seem, now the baby sweetened her gesture and added giving
a truce.
-I'm not evil and I do
not hate you... A lot, but of course I do not care about you. If you really
show that you have changed then you will have that opportunity you ask for.
I'll watch over you and hope you do not cause trouble to my father. He has
already suffered enough and if he appreciates you I will not do anything that
can sadden him. On the contrary, I just want him to be happy, he deserves it.
-Hotaru, I love your
father very much.- She dared to say,
assuring her with vehement conviction. - I would never hurt him!
Although
that did not like the girl too much that she replied with clear dyes of
warning.
-My father has the
right to live his life peacefully. Try to stay away from him.
-You're not fair. We
both work together and he is the one who must decide. - Opposed the woman that
now felt angry. -
-I can grant you that.
- Admitted the little girl who still warned her with a hiss that tried to keep
her angry voice in an audible tone only for her interlocutor. - But hurt my
father in any way, and I'll take care of you. And as that happens I swear that
any torture you suffered in that hell would be a party day compared to what I
will do to you.
Her
interlocutor did not have time to respond. Her eyes were watering, and just
then the doctor reappeared. Tomoe could not stop looking at that detail as he
apologized.
-I'm sorry, it was from
the lab, and you know Kaori, those protocol checks. They do not leave us alone
even at home. By the way, is something wrong?
-No ... it's nothing. -
She could reply, trying not to sob
without success. - I'm fine…
Despite
trying to stop them, two tears fell on her cheeks. Souichi watched her with
concern. He did not understand anything. Kaori did not know what to say either.
Paradoxically now it was Hotaru who came and helped to her guest when she
explained in melancholy tone to her father.
-It was my fault,
forgive me. Poor Kaori! I have told her something about the accident and my illness.
I also told her that I hardly remember Mommy.
Tomoe nodded, now he
also seemed excited when he stressed.
-My poor Keiko, - he
sighed at length to try to cheer himself up and go on. - That's past. We can
never forget it. However, we have to strive to be happy, my treasure.
-Yes, Daddy, - the girl
agreed with another dazzling smile. - I am happy if you are too ...
-Thank you, sweetheart.
- Suochi smirked.-
-And you Kaori? - The
girl was interested now shooting the question as if using a cannon.- Are you
married? ...
-No, no ... I'm single
...- She replied now something misplaced.-
-That’s weird! A woman
so beautiful and so intelligent ... - Valued Hotaru making it sound like a
compliment. - Surely you will have the men you want ... do you like men, right?
-But daughter! - Tomoe
smiled, something stifled by her guest. - That is part of the private life of
our guest. You should not ask such things. It is so rude.
-Oh! I'm so sorry,
Kaori. Do you forgive me? - She asked in a tone of voice as sweet as it was
fake.- I am used to chat with my friends ... and they ...you know, they have a
variety of tastes.
-There is nothing to
forgive.- She could smile nervously at the questioner who did not miss the
opportunity to declare. - You are still young to understand some things.
-Of course. I do not
have your experience in life. You passed me so many years that it seems that
you had lived twice as much as I did. - The young girl answered, barely hiding
her unrest.-
The
doctor looked at both strangely. He was not so naive as not to begin to suspect
that something was happening there. The atmosphere seemed to freeze at times.
Perhaps his daughter noticed, the fact is that she smiled broadly and added
addressing her now astonished fellowship with a tinge much more jovial and
kind.
-That's why I could use
your advice. For instance when I like a boy or when I want to go shopping ... I
have old friends but many times they are very busy, I'm sure I could use one
more friend gladly.
-Of course, yes, Daughter.
- Tomoe smiled now, with visible relief. Apparently he had misinterpreted the
situation. That is why he agreed. - That would be fantastic, that you being
friends. Surely Kaori could advise you on many things.
-I'll be happy to do
it. - She agreed to relax her face.-
-Yes, you might even have
time someday to go shopping.- Hotaru added. - With my friends and me. For
example, to buy some good pair of shoes ... Do you like shoes, Kaori?
-Sure, - she said even
allowing herself to smile as she tried to joke. - Being a woman. Who among us
does not like them?
-It's true,- said Hotaru who rifled with a somewhat more
malevolent tint. - I remember one of my friends liked a pair that was in a store,
they were made of glass ... - She clarified leaving her guest freeze. – It was
something so curious that I have not forgotten ... and believe me I will never
forget. Neither did her ... I mean my friend. She even remembered who sold them
to her...
-I like that, - said
the young girl's father, oblivious to the meaning of all that, when he
sentenced. -It's great that you begin to get along...
-Yes. That's what I
think, too. The girl added, asking solicitously. - A little more wine, Kaori?
-No, thank you very
much. - She was able to mumble while her hand was almost trembling when
instinctively she covered her glass and apologized adding in more than one way.
- I've had enough.
Then
came the dessert. A strawberry ice cream sorbet that was delicious, although
Kaori almost did not enjoy it as she remembered the words of that young girl.
At least the evening passed without further incident. The guest said goodbye after
thanking that great welcome, at least to the doctor. Hotaru did not go out and
bid her farewell, pretexting that she should go to sleep. Her father excused
her and it was he who accompanied the young woman to the door.
-I think you liked my
daughter very well. She does not talk much with people she does not know. But it's
funny, it seemed like you two understood each other very well.
-I'm glad,- the girl
said. - She's a… nice girl.
-Yes, she really is.
Sometimes I feel guilty because I see her very little. - The doctor lamented. –
She will become a woman in no time and we will have shared only a few moments
together.
-Well, you should spend
more time with her. - She dared to advise him, declaring with sincerity. -A
girl of her age being alone can suffer a lot.
-As Hotaru herself has
said, she has many good friends,- Tomoe said then. - And they have almost done
mothering with her. They've never been her left alone. However, I would very
much like you to advise her too.
-I'll do what I can. -
She smiled faintly. - Anything to gain her confidence and appreciation.
The
doctor nodded, smiling gratefully. At last, a taxi they had called arrived and Kaori
said goodbye, they will see again on Monday. Kaori went to her apartment with a
bittersweet feeling. The next day, the first thing she did was to telephone
Paris. Although it was a little late there her friend Emerald was glad to greet
her and Kaori, wishing to speak her thoughts, was able to tell her something
about that evening.
-I do not know what to
tell you. - replied her friend. - Maybe you should give that girl time. I
understand you very well, and many times I feel like you. The truth is that we
did so much damage that now it is difficult for us to try to erase it at once,
but surely you will.
-Thank you Emerald. –
Her interlocutor could sob. - I swear that's what I'd most like. But if you had
seen her. She scares me to death! It was worse than any torment of Hell.
Her
interlocutor listened to her, not without concern. She hoped that whatever had
happened between her friend and that child that could be remedied. So she
responded by trying to encourage her.
-Do not worry. You have
us all. And, if you want advice I would talk to Setsuna, I think she gets along very well with that baby.
-I will, thank you very
much. I'm sorry, I called you so late.
-Do not be silly. Call
when you want. Good luck and do not be discouraged. - Her friend encouraged her
to say goodbye. -
Emerald
was something worried. Poor Kaori was paying now even after coming out of the
hell she was in.
-Who was it, darling? -
Diamond asked, half asleep. -
-Kaori,- she said,
referring to a brief summary of the conversation. - Poor thing! Hotaru is
making her look bad. But I can understand. At least to certain extent.
-It's not easy to start
over. - He said putting an arm around his girlfriend's shoulder .- And less
with that burden of the past.
-It's not fair, she
already paid for what she did.
-Yes. You're right.
-Although she is not alone.- Sapphire, Petz and the sailors will help her.
-I'm sure she will, and
she'll get over it. - Emerald said that, changing the subject, she whispered to
her boyfriend in a mellow way, bringing up a topic they had been talking about.
- What do you think of my idea? - I have a small studio in Paris that I have
loaned in the agency. We use it to stay when there is a parade. This weekend is
going to be empty. I have the keys ... you, me, dinner...
-And something else? - Smiled
the boy. -
-There are always other
possibilities. - She agreed with an equally mischievous smile. -
Although
there was still a week left, the two already imagined that romantic evening in
a little place that, according to Emerald, had a view of the Eiffel Tower.
Anyway, that would come. The girl had to get up early the next day and went to
bed without thinking much. His partner did the same. The next day she went to
work. It was early, she took a taxi that left her a few hundred meters from the
Deveraux halls. The young model liked to walk in the morning. Although this
time a sound of police sirens and a cord of armed agents prevented the passage.
As she could, she wanted to know what was going on. Her French was not too good
but with a mixture of this and the English she managed to find out that some
criminals had rob a bank and held hostages. The girl looked out into a deserted
alley that no one was passing by at that hour, and stroked her Justiciera
stone, making a bold and not some anxiety.
-Well, I think it's
time for my debut.
Without
thinking twice she went in there and full of anticipation and something nervous
invoked the power of her stone.
-Pure Heart of the
Wind! Give me the power!
After transforming, she jumped up to
the roof of one of the houses nearby and began to approach the roofed bench. That
was a nice feeling. However, her former powers she could even fly. But after
her return to life as an ordinary human being she lost those faculties. Now,
with the properties of that stone, even if they were not capable of so much,
she had the ability to be very agile. As she climbed from her vantage point, she
could see the action. The French police had formed a good security cord,
preventing the growing number of curious people from approaching and even the
elite shooters were already betting on some windows covering the building. However,
if nobody avoided it, that could end in tragedy. She must be quick and
accurate. The young woman then sharpened her senses. To her surprise, her
ability to understand the language had increased, since she listened to speak
to agents and people and could fully understand what they said. And it was all
due to the sophisticated uniform of justice that the cats of the Moon made for
her.
-Wow, Luna and Artemis
are geniuses with the design, I should take notes. -She smiled as she thought
so. -
But
there was no place to waste time. To their surprise a couple of robbers came
out to the front door of the bank holding two women as hostages. The police did
not dare to shoot or approach. Those guys covered with mask threatened to use
the weapons that pointed to the captive's temple if the authorities made the
slightest movement. And to avoid the snipers, they and the hostages were
wrapped in a thick campaign blanket that prevent from see them clearly. They
demanded a fast car. As the police negotiators tried to talk to them, those
guys went back inside.
-Well, this is very
complicated. - She told herself. - What should I do? Let's see ... How could I
approach without being seen?
Emerald
realized from her position that the bank had an upper floor with a balcony. She
jumped up there with great speed. Though they might have seen her. In fact two
astonished policemen pointed in their direction and even the shooters got to
point her in a reflex act. Luckily for her she disappeared instantly entering
the service door of that roof. Now she just had to go down the steps. But
before acting she should know for sure how many robbers there were. She
descended as best she could, and crouched, she was able to discover three
individuals who had a dozen terrified hostages under their guns. The girl tried
to think what to do. If she attacked quickly she could not be sure to let them
out of action before they shot anyone. She thought, trying to remember how far
the properties of that uniform with which the warriors had endowed her. At
least she materialized her boomerang. This one was quick and silent and she
came up with an idea. She could throw it at one of those guys with semicircular
trajectory so that when her weapon hit him it knocked him down so that the
object continued its march to the next robber. For her part, she had jumped
feline, beating the other with a kick in the back that managed to throw to the
ground. When the remaining robber turned towards her surprised pointing her
with the revolver the boomerang struck him leaving him unconscious like his
companion. That must have happened in just three or four seconds. All the
robbers were on the ground and unarmed. The hostages watched her with a mixture
of stupor and excitement. More when she, now in a perfect French, told them.
-Ne vous inquiétez pas. Tout sera bien.
A
security guard who had been lying on the floor was the first to recover from
the surprise after witnessing such an extraordinary performance. Without delay
he proceeded to handcuff the robbers and contacted the police. Emerald was
about to leave by the same stairs she'd come down to when a woman, even as
surprised as she was grateful, asked.
-Qui est-vous?
-Je suis une of the Justicières. Je m'appelle la Dame du Vente - she smiled for every answer running
upstairs and going out of there. -
Fortunately, when the news reached
the police, they took care of entering to stop those criminals. She was able to
win the roof of the building and jump to a more secluded place. Then she
regained her normal identity. She was still gasping for the effort and the adrenaline
rush but she was smiling radiantly. At last she had done something good for the
people! Now she could share and above all understand, the joy and satisfaction
of her companions and the Warriors when they saved the innocent. Finally and
after a little rest she chose to recover her itinerary and go to work. It was
still so early that hardly anyone had arrived. She arrived with half an hour of
advance this time. On entering, she went directly to her office and there,
opening the safe containing them, she displayed her sketches. She studied them
trying to make some changes when she heard noises outside. She looked carefully
out of the window, and on a contiguous wall she discovered a kind of rope and a
hook. It was as if someone had used them to climb. When she realized she could
barely see, a strange smoke filled her office.
-It's gas! - She said,
trying to escape its effects. –
As
she could, she covered her mouth and nose and ran out of the office, and in the
adjoining bathroom she was able to cough trying to expel that from her lungs.
After washing her face she decided to return to become Justiciera. She did it
there, taking advantage of the fact that it was deserted. Apparently the
density of that gas was decreasing as it escaped through the open window. When
the girl could see with some clarity she observed with horror that her designs
had disappeared.
-This is outrageous! -
She thought indignantly. -They've stolen them in my face, but I will not
consent it. This time they will not get away with it.
Hastily
she looked out of the window and she jumped up, clinging to that kind of cable
in the adjoining room. She was able to climb to the roof of the house and then she
saw her. A figure all dressed in black who apparently carried a briefcase in
her hand. Emerald recognized her sketches and hurried to chase after this
thief. This guy must have seen her come, as she swiftly ran toward the end of
the roof. Nevertheless the Lady of the Wind was of a superior agility and
managed to intercept to her opponent that he seemed to be something shorter
than she. Perhaps calling that thief she, would be the appropriate word given
that through that black Lycra suit Emerald seemed to guess female forms. Then
the girl exclaimed in an outburst.
-I will not forgive those
who steal the work of others! I, the Lady of the Wind, in the name of Justice
and intellectual property I will punish you!
Perhaps
her opponent did not care too much, the truth is that she responded with a very
flexible karate leg to the head that she could barely block. Mounting the
counterattack Emerald threw her own leg against her rival who in turn dodged
it. She seemed to be a skilled fighter and the exchange of blows between both
was much even, finally her adversary opted for the retreat. The Lady of the
Wind resorted to her boomerang that, of a certain launching, managed to snatch
the portfolio of the thief's hands making it fall to the roof. There, her
legitimate owner recovered it. With a kind of exclamation that seemed to curse
her bad luck that intruder darted from the roof and fell tumbling to a roof of
a lower house. Emerald took a few seconds to make sure the briefcase was closed
and then wanted to chase after her. But by the time that elusive thief had
slipped away, she had vanished.
-Dammit! -She could
spit on the annoyance. - Well, it could have been worse. At least I've got my
job back. - She sighed, returning to her office. -
Luckily
she was able to reverse her transformation without being seen down the street
and entering through the front door. When she returned, Madame Deveraux was
already there being informed about what had happened. Then she saw Emerald and
approached her.
-I think they've tried
to steal us. - The old woman said with visible uneasiness. -
-That it seems, but do
not fear, they have not achieved what they wanted. This time I did not let
myself be surprised. - The girl could tell that, she did find that her sketches
were all there. -
-You're clever and
determined, that's what I like, - smiled the old woman, who nonetheless sentenced
her with more concern. - But I'm afraid they will not give up so easily.
Emerald
was thoughtful. Who would be behind that? Possibly the greatest rival of her
boss. Goldpier. Although without proof they could not accuse her. In short, she
would find out. For the moment she decided to let it be. She had a lot of work
to do and wanted her long weekend to come.
-Well ... I will be
alert. - She said caressing the stone of her pendant.- And I will stop whoever
it was...
In
the meantime, Diamond was also struggling when, via e-mail, a message came from
someone he could not identify. It promised him a lot of money and a great
executive position if he left his current position and joined the mysterious
sender. The strange thing was that this offer was not signed. Although in the
same message it was indicated to him that soon, that mysterious offeror would
be made known. He paid no more attention to that and continued with his work.
The next few days he received another letter by mail, and this time, yes, those
missives announced their origin. They came none other than the Masters
Corporation. If Diamond was not mistaken, his own brother had told him days
before that he had started working with them, along with Tomoe and Kaori
herself.
-This guy is really
insistent. - He thought with irritation. - I have already said him no...
And
when he met with his girlfriend he and Emerald certainly commented on their
respective adventures, and were waiting with joy on their weekend to relax of
so much activity. Although just on Friday they received a call that made them
change plans. At least for now. An old companion from Diamond got in touch with
him. It was neither more nor less than Nephrite. Prince of the Four Skies.
Apart of course of remembering old times and adventures in the fight against
the demons, this one, that now called himself Masato Saint Join and lived in
London, had something quite interesting to tell them ... and from there arose a
series of adventures that must be narrated in other moment
In
Tokyo, meanwhile, the days went by in the work routine. Kaori stayed with Petz
and Sapphire on some occasions. And she could also talk to Setsuna to bring her
up to date with Hotaru. Pluto listened sympathetically and promised that she
would try to mediate. With that hope Kaori always remained close to the doctor
who seemed to be treating her more confidently. Of course they did not make a
bad team. At least it was a start. And it seemed that their solid professional
relationship was almost imperceptibly extended to the staff. A few more months
passed. One day Souichi proposed to go to dinner at his house. It happened that
her daughter was going to spend a few days with her friends Michiru, Setsuna
and Haruka. She accepted in delight. She still remembered the time when, with
the girl in front, she felt so uncomfortable, but now the mood was totally
different. The table was set for only two, with candles at both ends and a
suggestive penumbra. Tomoe waved her over and pushed the chair away. She was
barely seated when he told her.
-I have no words to
thank you for all your help and kindness in these months.
-I am grateful. - She
could tell with a certain blush that threatened to spread on her cheeks. - You
never stopped trusting me, doctor.
-Please. Now we are not
at work. My name is Souichi. - He reminded her. -
-It's hard for me, I've
always called you doctor. - She smiled with some shame. -
He
stood up and smiled back at her and walked back to the kitchen. He served her
the first course, a shrimp cocktail and sat down next to her again. Although a
little closer this time, to decide to confess with some embarrassment.
-It's hard for me, too.
Since my wife died, I have not felt anything like it for anyone. At least until
now.
The
girl almost dropped the spoon from her hands when she heard that. She looked
into the professor's eyes and handed it back, and almost without realizing it,
he kissed her lips gently. The two gave themselves back to the experience, this
time with more passion and the doctor, who certainly did not look the same,
took her in his arms. Then there was no need of talking. Souichi headed toward
his bedroom. Kaori's heart was about to explode. Even for a fleeting moment she
was sorry she did not finish that dinner that she had not even begun to taste.
But after being deposited on the bed, she stopped thinking about it and,
together with her partner, tried to shed her clothes. No one knew for sure how
long it took to complete that. The girl could feel what human love was in all
its dimension and at the end they rested in embrace. It was when he could take
the word again to sigh.
-Kaori. Since I met you
I fell in love with you. I want you in my life. I would like you to join our
family, if you accept me.
The
girl felt tears stream down her cheeks. This was something she had not dreamed
of only a few months before. She could hardly answer.
-I love you too. I want
to be with you and nothing can separate us again.
-Again? - He asked, not
understanding.-
Kaori knew she'd talked
too much, though she quickly made up her mind.
-I mean, I've wanted
this on many occasions, but I've always felt that maybe Hotaru did not like it.
-I know - he admitted,
revealing her. - To be honest before tonight I was able to talk to my daughter.
I could not do any of this behind her back.
To
Kaori's surprise that her now-lover and future boyfriend was unaware of the
situation, Tomoe told her what had happened the day before. He had had a very
important conversation with the girl. Not even the doctor himself could know
how his daughter felt.
-You will see. - He
referred to the young woman as they lay on the bed and hugged each other. - We
were talking and...
Hotaru
had returned from school. It was one more afternoon. Although for her father
had not gone unnoticed the tense atmosphere that was generated every time his daughter
and his assistant met. During that time working together he had begun to feel
something for Kaori, in the end he could not deny that he had fallen in love
with that girl who was always there for him and seemed to anticipate his own
desires before he was almost aware of them. Kind and sweet, lively and dedicated.
For his part he was hesitant, nervous, did not know if she would correspond to
his feelings or was simple kindness. He wanted to believe she did, but what
worried him most was his daughter's attitude. Maybe it was normal, he could see
Kaori as someone trying to erase the memory of her mother and he should make
her realize that would never happen. So, when the baby arrived, waving
cheerfully as usual, he did not want to postpone it any longer. He called her
and asked her to sit next to him.
-What's the matter,
Dad? - The girl asked, somewhat anxious to see that expression on her father's
face. -I notice you worried.
-I have to talk to you about
something very important. - He could reply, who armed himself with courage,
asked without further ado. – Please, be sincere with me, Hotaru. How do you
think about Kaori?
-She's a nice woman.
She knows how to do her job. - She replied elusively, not wanting to face his
eyes. -
-Look at me - his
father said sweetly, adding. - I know there's something. I do not know what it
is, but it saddens me. Every time she has come home or you have come to the
laboratory I have noticed, something between you is not right. And I do not
understand what it can be.
Now
the girl could not answer, looked down at the floor with damp eyes. As her
father delicately took her hands in his own and declared.
-I know you're very
intelligent and perceptive for your age. And you know I feel something for
Kaori. Right, daughter? That's why I want to apologize to you, if that hurts
you. But it's not what you think. She will never make me forget your mother.
-Dad. The girl was able
to tell by looking up with difficulty and showing tears in her eyes. Although she
still struggled to smile. - If makes you happy to be with her, I'm happy for
you too.
-My child! - He
replied, also excited, for he realized that his daughter was suffering by
saying that. -I would like you so much to become good friends. She really
appreciates you. And she does not want to replace mama. Really not. This is
adult stuff. Someday you will understand. When you grow up and fall in love
with someone....
Kaori
heard this with stupor. The one who remembered that chat too, in her friends'
house was Hotaru. She remembered not letting continue his statement to her
progenitor and hugged him crying. That which she feared had happened. That
harpy had earned her father's heart, but she could do nothing but put up with
it in the most dignified way possible. And so far she had to admit that Kaori
had behaved very well with both of them. Seeing the expression of her father she
could not deny the evidence. It was true that this woman made him happy. He
always lit his face when he saw her. What could she do about it? On the one
hand, she wanted to scream at him and tell him who Kaori had been and the
terrible things she had done. But she knew perfectly well that it was not
possible. Nor could she retaliate against her. That would only make his father
suffer. He would see it as unjust and cruel. And for the little girl he was the
best person in the world and she could not bear the thought of hurting him. So she
just had to accept it. At last she separated from his father's embrace and with
a sleeve wiped her tears as best she could. Even improvising a forced smile, she
said.
-I have to go and do my
homework, Dad. Tomorrow I would like to go with the girls. - Completed
referring to her fellow warriors. - If that's okay with you.
-Of course I think it
is fine. You feel very close to them. I'm so glad they're such good friends of
yours. Although I cannot understand what you can do all four of them together.
They are too old for you! - Her father remarked that he had never understood
the scope of that relationship, although he himself replied when he added. - Of
course, I can never thank you enough for taking care of you when I could not do
it. - Maybe they know that you are a very special girl and they may be better
able to understand you than your fool father. I wish I had been there longer
for you! He smiled with melancholy and even some sadness. - Forgive me,
daughter!
-Do not say that,
please. I do not have anything to forgive you for. Unlike. I will always love
you more than anyone, Dad. - Promised the little girl hugging his neck now to
give him a kiss on his cheeks, and wet him with her tears. - Forgive me, if I
have not been fair! I love you so much, dad!
-And I love you too, my
dear,- he replied, with tears too. - That is why it is very important for me
that you understand it and that you want to participate in it. Really you're a
very mature girl. With your understanding you make me very happy.
The
girl nodded away from him, not daring to look at him again she went to her room
and closed the door.
-I know this has
affected her, but I cannot suppress my feelings for you. - The doctor confessed
to his now sentimental partner.-
And
it was that Tomoe remembered how looked like her little one as she left the
room that afternoon after their chat. He suffered for Hotaru but he believed
that, over time, everything would be solved. Now Kaori also listened with tears
in her eyes and when he finished she hurried to say.
-I do not want to be
more than a good friend to her. I hope she wants to tell me her problems and
being capable of help her. I'll make it up to you, I promise! I will strive to
be like an older sister for Hotaru. I do not pretend to usurp the role of
mother.
-Let's give her time, -
Tomoe muttered, wrapping his fingers together with her lover's. - She'll end up
seeing that you're a good person and she will love you. I'm sure.
Her
interlocutor wished that it was true, and she longed for it. She wanted to forget
the terrible relationship they had in that old life full of evil. But even then
she worried about the girl's health. Even if it was a selfish way, to carry out
her task. She did not want to think about it anymore. She and Souichi relaxed
talking about other things and that was when the doctor, smiling now,
remembered almost with technical precision.
-I hope we can still
have supper. Good thing it was cold buffet!
That
caught Kaori off guard and made her laugh. Of course there were few occasions
when he did. She agreed to this with her now-betrothed fiancé, and they both
gave a good account of what remained of the dinner that remained delicious, at
least that seemed to her. In fact she could have eaten sandpaper and she would
have loved it just as well. She felt so happy.
-We'll go step by step,
calmly and enjoying the moment. - The young woman proposed. -
-Yes, that's very
reasonable, - he agreed. -
And
indeed, the months passed and they both engaged. They celebrated the wedding in
Tokyo, many of their friends came as guests. For example Sapphire and Petz and
of course Diamond and Emerald. He now went to work for the Masters Corporation
and told Tomoe and Kaori about his adventures on the Island property of the owner
of the firm. Also, together with Emerald, he told them some of the other events
they had in Britain when they went to visit their friend Nephrite and met his
girlfriend Amanda Thompson. And of course they suggested the newlyweds spend a
few days of their honeymoon in Paris. They would make them delighted hosts.
Both Souichi and Kaori agreed with that brilliant idea. To that link also
attended the Sailor that wished the best to the couple. Although the ones that
had more interest in that were the components of the outer solar system. Hotaru
would have wanted to face Galaxia again before going through that, but among
all her friends they convinced her that was for her father's happiness. It
would have been a serious blow if she had not attended. So she overcame that
feelings. Hotaru congratulated the couple cordially and then made a discreet
aside with Kaori. The radiant bride who looked lovely in her white dress and
bouquet of roses in tune with her hair, gave her hopeful words.
-Hotaru, I thank you
very much that you are here. And I want you to know that you can always count
on me. For real. We will be good friends…
Although
the girl refused to reply at the beginning. She was really sad and upset. However,
regaining her self-control she use a cold tone, trying to hide her sadness and
impotence to answer.
-Get that out of your
head! The fact that my father loves you does not mean that you and I are going
to be friends. I choose the people I trust. But do not worry, I don´t want to
see my father suffering. That's why I want him to be happy with you. Although I
will give you some piece of advice, never forget who I am. Because I'll never
forget who you are and what you were. But do not fear, as long as my father was
happy with you, I will not interfere.
Hearing that Kaori
lowered her head with regret and still, she could mutter resignedly.
-Maybe in time you can
see things differently.
-You never know. -
Hotaru had to agree without any enthusiasm. - But what I will tell you is this.
And it's the best proposition I can offer to you. Stay out of my life and I
will not get into yours with my father.
-It seems fair to me. -
Sighed her interlocutor. - Thank you very much.
Hotaru
looked at her in surprise, perhaps not expecting that reaction. So, trying to
be a little friendlier, especially since she saw her father coming up smiling, she
added.
-Then it is a deal. I
wish you both to be very happy. If you really love my father and you can make
him happy, my opinion about you may change. In that you are right, as Setsuna
says, time will tell.
-Yes, time will ...
Hotaru ... - agreed her interlocutor.
Kaori
could finally allow herself a smile, though only fleetingly. The arrival of a Souichi
elegantly dressed in his boyfriend's tuxedo made both girls cheer their
expression, especially when he told them.
-I'm so glad to see you
both talking. My precious girls. I am very glad that you are here sharing this
moment with us, daughter.
-I'm very happy for you
too - said Hotaru, who was not lying when she said this time. - I just told
Kaori.
-That's right. - Kaori
agreed, smiling in turn as she finished with the same frankness. - We both
understand each other.
Souichi
brightened his expression even more. For him that was great. Hopefully, little
by little, they were both congenial. He smiled at them again, grabbing each one
with his arm, and after that he separated from them and walked away to meet the
other guests. Then Hotaru gave a last comment to her interlocutor who was now
listening intently to her when the girl sentenced.
-Just to see how happy
my father is now I would be able to give my life. Take good care of him. Really
love him and you will have a friend in me. Do the least damage to him and there
will be no place in the Cosmos where you can hide.
-You should not have to
bother killing me. Before I hurt her I would die. – Kaori affirmed with the
same decided tone that this time impressed to her interlocutor. Then, taking
advantage of that moment of bewilderment in Hotaru, Kaori added trying to
anticipate. - You'll see Hotaru ... if you let me, I'd like to tell you a story
about me. One that you do not know ... and before you tell me that you do not
care about my life, believe me. This time you will like to know.
That
provoke the curiosity of Hotaru. So she chose not to retort with sarcasm and
with genuine interest in, she invited Kaori with a.
-I am listening to you…
The
woman smiled faintly, sighed, and began to recount in a low voice.
-There was once a young
girl just graduated in biochemistry. A young woman with many dreams to fulfill,
she had not many friends and she knew no boyfriend, because she had other priorities
in life. Her family wasn´t wealthy so she made a great effort to obtain a
scholarship and to be able to do a doctorate with the best specialist. That
specialist was your father ... In those days you were very small. Your mother
was the doctor's assistant. And I ... I was just that enthusiastic young lady
who wanted more than anything being appreciated for her job. I dreamed about
being noticing by my tutor. Although I knew it was impossible. Your father
loved your mother very much.
Hotaru
looked at her in astonishment and excitement, but she knew how to wait while
Kaorinite continued in a sad tone.
-Then that fateful day
came. That ill-fated experiment, I do not know what went wrong. But that
containment chamber burst. Unfortunately did when you were visiting. Your own
mother protected you with her body from the explosion. And she paid that
gesture of love to you with her life. The rest of us were seriously injured. In
the midst of my agony I was able to see your father embraced Keiko's body and
then yours, trying to revive you in vain. I heard him shout, crying out of
helplessness and pain. And that's when I heard that dark voice. That voice of
another dimension that offered Suochi save your life and yours. In exchange for
serving him.
The
girl attended with signs of being really impacted. Now a lot of things fit . She
could not help asking.
-That voice was that of
Pharaoh Ninety. It is not like this?
-That was it ... and I,
who was about to die, I witnessed how he possessed you and your father, Kaori
added. - And how that saved your life. For my part I barely could whisper ...
at that moment I only wanted to save mine. I did not want to end like that. I
was so young and had so many dreams to realize ... I begged to live and that
being heard me ... Then he offered me the same deal and I accepted. I accepted
because I only wanted to live! ... Was that a crime? - sobbed the woman trying
to contain the tears without succeeding, although being able to continue. - A
kind of egg descended on my head and entered it. That egg was me ... Kaorinite
of Tau Ceti, I fused with that girl. Yuka was her name ... - She sighed again
wiping her tears. - And she left ...she was gone forever...
-Then that monster did
not save her. It simply allowed you to occupy the body of that poor wretch.
-Hotaru declared more harshly. - Did not you deceive her after all?
However, Kaori shook
her head and was able to refute.
-Maybe that's what
Pharaoh Ninety and I believed at first. But somehow the consciousness, the
memories and the dreams of that young lady remained in me. And gradually I
internalized them. I fell in love with the doctor just like her. I wanted to
take care of you and protect you. At the beginning by command of Pharaoh
Ninety, since you were the recipient of the Mistress Nine. Although after my
battle and my defeat against the warriors your father rescued me. As you know
for a time I stayed at home, taking care of you and being his assistant,
without resorting to my powers. That's when I started to realize. I loved him
and wanted to live next to him in a normal way! I did not even know who I
really was. Was I Yuka, the young and enthusiastic girl? Was Kaorinite the
warrior of Tau Ceti? Or had I become the Kaori assistant? ... Maybe I was never
any of the three now but someone new. But Germanoid, the evil being who
controlled your father, forced me to return. Until Mistress Nine woke up ...
and the rest...
-Yes, I know what
happened. - Her astonished listener managed to mumble listener, admitting, in
her turn with a tinge of regret. - And if I'm honest, when she woke up at the
beginning she did not control me at all. I tried to stop her as much as I
could. But it was not so when she wanted to destroy you. I could tell you that
I tried to avoid it, but I would lie ... because I hated you ... and I wanted
to see you dead. I know it sounds terrible, but it was the only thing we both
agreed on.
-I understand -
Kaorinite said, lowering her head to sentence with an excited tone. - The only thing
I regret is that you still hate me. Because now I just aspire to be that girl I
was a long time ago ... a young girl who only wanted to be happy finding love
and dedicating herself to her passion for research. I beg you! ... That is my
only longing. -She exclaimed between sobs.- After dying at least twice and pay
my sins in Hell, be happy in this new life and contribute to your father being
so ... is it Ask too much maybe?
For
the very first time Hotaru now stared at her with a look of pity, and even
respect. At least it seemed that Kaori was sincere and loved her father. Maybe
in her own way, but after all, she loved him as much as she did. Watching the
woman's tortured expression for a few moments and shaking her head, she whispered
to admit it.
-No, I cannot deny
that. It's something fair ... if there is something that Sailor Moon taught us
is that we all have the right to pursue happiness. As long as we do not harm
anyone. And now I think you just want to make my father happy.
-Thank you. - The woman
sobbed with acknowledgment in her voice.-
The
girl did not respond, she just nodded away from there to join the rest of the
warriors who were lively.
-For me is not easy
Kaori, I will need time. - She meditated while she smiled chatting with Haruka
and Michiru.-
So
when the celebration ended everyone returned to their normal lives. Tomoe and
Kaori of course agreed to spend a few days with their friends in Paris. Then
they visited some other places in Europe and finally returned to Tokyo ready to
resume their work. Hotaru spent more time with her companions and like the rest
of the group she lived another series of adventures worthy of mention. After
not too long, her now stepmother would make her the best gift she could imagine.
But what happened then must be told on another occasion.
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