Disclaimer: I don't own Sailor Moon or anything connected to her. The creators and DiC, and other companies that support Sailor Moon own them. Please do not use the characters I have created without my permission.

Author's Notes:

The last story (Rei's Story) is directly based on my fanfic, "Pure Paradise". It may be best if you refer to it before reading Rei's accounts. Also, in Ami and Minako's stories, they are matched with generals of the dark kingdom. This idea is based on a painting by Naoko Takeuchi, showing the Sailor Scouts with the four generals.

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The Sailor Diaries By Sailor Aurora

Makato's Story

I dropped my apron on the steel counter top and waved good night to the other chefs. The place was still packed and I was full of pride, but as my customers waved good bye to me, all I could think about was my dear Motoki. Tonight was our one year anniversary. He said on the phone that he had a surprise for me. I had been anxious all night long, and it had taken a lot for me to remain focused on cooking at my own restaurant, Makato's Place. Aren't you proud? I know I am.

When I got home, Motoki was watching television. I waved as I shut the door to our apartment.

" Mako-chan, I'm so glad you're home."

" So, what's my surprise, Motoki?"

" I'm taking a short trip to Africa, and I want you to come along."

" Africa! What do you need in Africa?"

" I need to stop something, before it gets out of hand."

I knew what the thing he needed to stop was, of course. I also knew he needed to go alone, much as I hated to admit it.

" You're going to see Reiki, aren't you?" Motoki sighed.

" I'm going to end the relationship we once shared, Makato."

" I see." What a surprise for our anniversary this was.

" Mako…"

" This is something you'll have to do alone, Motoki. I don't want to be any part of it." I ran out the door again, and up to the grassy knoll where I loved to sit and play with the blades of grass.

It was there that I found Rei, lounging on a picnic blanket and reading a book. I sat down beside her.

" Hey Rei," I sighed.

" Well, someone looks glum. What's wrong?"

" I'm more than glum, Rei. Motoki is going to see Reiki in Africa."

" What?" Rei looked up from her book.

" He says he's going to end their relationship," I turned my attention to the grass, and began picking single blades.

" You mean, he's going on with her, despite your relationship with him?" Rei asked.

" Motoki said it was like an unsettled divorce. He said he didn't feel right continuing our relationship until it was over between him and Reiki."

" Can't he call her up and tell her?"

" Motoki said he wouldn't feel right calling her. He said he stopped writing to her once we got close, but she kept writing him. Motoki wanted me to go with him, for us to spend time in the Savannah for a vacation, but I declined."

" Who wouldn't! When does he leave?"

" Tomorrow night, I think."

" You should give him something," Rei advised.

" Like what? The only thing I have is my anniversary gift to him," I thought for a few minutes after answering. The anniversary gift I picked out was a smart pocket watch. It had a picture of us together in the inside, opposite the watch itself.

" Give him that. What did you get him anyway?"

" A pocket watch."

" Wow! Well, I can't guarantee anything, but I could try to tap into his conversations with Reiki."

" No. That wouldn't be right. I have to trust Motoki. I'm just afraid of losing him to Reiki."

Motoki left the next night and I sat around waiting for him to return. I spent a lot of time at the restaurant, cooking up everything on the menu, whether or not it had been ordered. I also hung around Minako a lot, as well as Ami, and Rei. I even spent a bit of time with my good friend, Usagi. She and I didn't spend a lot of time together these days, seeing as how she was the queen. Our places in life kept us apart most of the time.

A week went by, and I started to worry. I started getting moody, and most of my friends stayed away from me. While my moodiness carried on, Ken, my best friend, came by the apartment. He knocked on the door.

" What do you want?" I asked him.

" I wanted to see how you were, Mako-chan."

" Why?"

" Because I heard about Motoki going to Africa. Rei told me you were taking it a bit badly, and I came by to cheer you up. Naru and her new boyfriend, and I are going to see a movie. Do you want to come?" I smiled slightly, and then agreed. I grabbed my purse, and we were out the door. Naru's new boyfriend was kinda old for her, but he was nice enough. He reminded me of someone, though I couldn't put my finger on who it was he reminded me of. Oh well.

After the movie, Ken dropped me off at home, and I went inside, just as the phone rang.

" Hello, Makato speaking."

" Mako-chan, it's me." It was Motoki. He sounded happy. "Mako-chan, it's over. I'm coming home, my love."

" Oh Motoki, I'm so glad."

" I love you, and I'll be home tomorrow night, around eight."

" All right, I'll be expecting you, my love."

I hung up the phone and stepped back out the door. I wanted Motoki's homecoming to be really nice, so the first thing I did was go to the grocery store. After unloading the groceries, I searched through my closet looking for the perfect dress. I turned up empty-handed. He'd seen every one of these dresses, and I wanted something new. At the mall, I picked up a green frock. It was very princess-like. Also, the emerald green silk fabric matched my eyes.

The next night, Motoki arrived at the door at exactly eight. He was never known to be late. I opened the door, and Motoki handed me a bouquet of sweet smelling yellow roses. I sniffed them, and then hurried to put them in a vase. I set the vase in the middle of the dining room table, and hurried back into the kitchen. Rei and Ami were hiding in there, putting food on plates, and as I cleaned the flour off my arms and face, Minako took the plates out and set them on the table. When all was done, Rei, Ami, and Minako scurried out the back door. Then I pulled off my apron and walked out of the kitchen.

" Wow, look at you. Is that dress new?" Motoki asked.

" Yes, do you like it?"

" I love it."

After supper, I was clearing dishes and Motoki came into the kitchen. He touched my arm and I dropped what I was doing. Motoki led me out into the dining room and smiled at me.

" There was more than one reason I went to Africa, Mako-chan. I went to end my relationship with Reiki, yes, but not because I wanted to keep dating you with a clear conscience."

" Then why?"

" I'm getting to it. See, I needed to end one point in my life before starting a new one. I just hope my money wasn't spent in vain. While I was gone, actually just tonight, I picked up your anniversary present. I realize it's a little late, but I hope you'll still accept it." Motoki bent to one knee, pulling a box from his pants pocket. He lifted the lid and held the box out to me. The contents contained a gold-banded ring with a huge diamond in the center.

" Will you pleasure me in being my one and only for all time, Mako-chan? Will you be my wife?"

" Oh, Motoki, you know I will."

Minako's Story

"Kunzite came towards me, his hand out in front of him. He was reaching for me. I was so scared that I called upon the powers of Venus and destroyed him with my own strength. As he died, he kept calling to me. ' I don't understand, Sailor Venus. I love you.' Is that weird?" I asked Makato. After all, she is the most understanding Sailor Scout. We were sitting on a grassy knoll near the palace.

" I don't think it's too weird. Maybe Kunzite's figure stands for something in the past." Makato looked at me as she played with a daisy. The small engagement ring on her finger shone in the sunlight of midday.

" Like who? I never had a crush on Kunzite. Heck, I've only had one boyfriend since before I moved here." I sighed. Thinking of London always made my heart ache like mad, especially when I thought about my sen-pai.

" I don't know. You'll have to ask Rei. She and her fire would probably know about that stuff. All I have is thunder, so you're out of luck. Did I tell you that Motoki and I set the date?"

" No, when is it going to take place?" I asked.

" In about three months. Gee, I can't wait!"

* * * * *

I woke up about three hours after I feel asleep. The dream about Kunzite was back again, and bugging me like hell. The whole thing spooked me so much, and yet it gave me some kind of premonition. Something was coming, and I was its target. I stayed awake the rest of the night, listening to music to keep myself awake. I felt my eyelids start to sag as the sun rose over the horizon and its beams warmed my face.

I felt someone shaking me not long after I drifted off, so I awakened once again. There was Makato, shaking me as if all the Dark Kingdom had reawakened and the Queen was dead. Little did I know at the time that my thoughts weren't as far off from the truth as I thought.

"Mako-chan, what is it?" I asked her, yawning.

" Minako, you have a secret visitor. I didn't tell anyone he was here, I swear. He's waiting for you on your balcony. Get dressed and hurry out to him."

" Who is it?" I asked.

" I swore I wouldn't say. It's a surprise, Minako."

So, I got up and put on my plain yellow sundress. I tied an orange ribbon around my half-ponytail, then stepped out onto the balcony. I couldn't believe who I saw standing there casually. I could have fainted had I been more relaxed. Still, I had that strange feeling again, the feeling that he belonged on my balcony. It was the sight of him leaning on the crystal bar, his arms crossed over his chest, his cape fluttering in the slight morning breeze, his hair draped over one shoulder, and his uniform top unbuttoned one notch, that brought back so many memories. It was this that forced me to throw myself into his now open arms. My heart beat like a thousand synchronized drums all playing for me. He kissed my forehead.

" You look just the way I remember you, Minako. I'm sorry I couldn't come sooner, but it was just now that Queen Serenity of the Moon Kingdom freed me from my eternal suffering under Queen Beryl's control. I understand that you and the Scouts had to destroy me. I was completely out of control. Just tell me you forgive me, Minako."

" I forgive you, Kunzite." I looked into those stunning eyes of his. They warmed my heart, and my soul.

Ami entered my chamber, looking for me. She came out onto the balcony, where she saw me still standing with Kunzite. I was telling him all about defeating Queen Beryl, helping Ann and Ail, getting rid of Rubeus, etc. Kunzite avoided his exploits in the underworld of the Dark Kingdom and simply listened to my jabbering. When Ami saw us, she powered up. When I heard her, I turned and stopped her, standing in front of Kunzite.

" What are you doing, Minako?" Ami asked me.

" Protecting Kunzite. The spell is broken. My general is back again. Ami, don't you remember his true self?"

" Not really, but I trust your judgement." Ami sighed.

" Ami, so good to see you again." Kunzite said, putting out his hand to her. Ami shook it as Kunzite kneeled and kissed her hand.

" He really is good again. Amazing. I should tell Queen Serenity.

" No! She would never understand, Ami. Please, refrain from telling anyone that Kunzite is here. I don't want anything terrible to happen to him." I stopped Ami, then took Kunzite's arm between my hands. I could feel his muscles, so strong.

" All right, I won't tell anyone. Does anyone know other than me?"

" Yes, Makato knows."

" Okay. I just came by to tell you that King Endymion is on his way down, that's all. He wants to talk to you about furthering Chibi Chibi's training as a Sailor Scout.

" Oh no! What do I do with you, my love?" I turned to Kunzite.

" I'll take him on a tour of Crystal Tokyo, and get him some casual clothes while you speak with the King. Just call me on the communicator when you're through and we'll meet up."

" Okay, Ami." I had to stand on my tiptoes to kiss Kunzite's cheek, and then we walked back into my chamber. Ami and Kunzite hurried out the door and down a back hall just as King Endymion knocked.

" Come on in, your highness." I answered.

" Stop with the formalities, Minako. This is just a visit from good ol' Mamoru-chan."

" Oh, okay. So, you came to ask about Chibi Chibi's training?"

" No, actually I came to ask you about something more personal. The Chibi Chibi thing was another formality." I stared at him.

" I heard a rumor from Makato that there is someone here from our pasts. Our meaning yours and mine. Is he still here?"

" Makato told you?!"

" That's right. Kunzite was my personal protector and friend before Queen Beryl brainwashed him. The other three generals were as well."

" I didn't know that. Mako-chan warned me not to tell Usagi, though. Or anyone else."

" It's probably best that way. Usagi might get a bit worried, or even Rei."

" Not to mention Michiru, Haruka, and Setsuna."

" No kidding. Well, do I get to meet him once again, or what?"

" Sure, Ami took him on a tour. They couldn't have gotten too far." I punched in Ami's communicator code on my watch-like communicator and she answered.

" Hi Minako, you're done already?" Ami asked me.

" Not exactly. Where are you guys?" I asked her, smiling.

" Kunzite and I are over at the east wing flower gardens. We're right next to the sunflowers."

" Great, I'll be right down."

Mamoru and I arrived at the flower garden just as Kunzite plucked a sunflower from its stem. He handed it to me, then smiled at Mamoru. Kunzite bowed, as did Ami. Mamoru waved them off. He'd never really gotten used to the whole "King thing". He even hated having his friends bow before him.

" Mamoru-chan, why are you here?" Ami asked.

" Prince Endymion, it's good to see you again." Kunzite and Mamoru shook hands.

" Mako-chan told me you were here, Kunzite. It's good to see you as well, especially when we are on the same side." We all laughed, then I frowned. Kunzite looked at me.

" Sadly, it's not to last. Usagi and the other scouts would never understand your being here." I explained.

" There is only one other scout, I thought. Sailor Mars, and she can be persuaded to understand, can't she?"

" If we tried hard enough, but there are other scouts. Haruka and Michiru are not very understanding people, and Setsuna…" Mamoru continued.

" Who are these people? More scouts?"

" Yes, the scouts, Pluto, Neptune, and Uranus. There are also the scouts Saturn, Chibi Moon, and Chibi Chibi Moon. Yet, the last two are not yet trained for combat. They would never understand your presence, and neither would the Queen."

" Maybe we can disguise him, until we think of a plan," Ami announced.

" Or until we leave Crystal Tokyo." I told her.

Later, Ami, Makato, and I were sitting in my chambers. Kunzite and Mamoru were out bonding.

" Leave Crystal Tokyo?" Makato yelped.

" Yes, it may be the only way. I'll do anything to be with Kunzite."

" But Minako, you are the leader of the Sailor Scouts until ChibiUsa finishes her training." Makato pleaded.

" I don't want to be the leader if I have to live without the man I love."

" How can you love a man you've only known for one day?"

" I've known him longer than that. I've known Kunzite as long as Mamoru has known Usagi. They've been together forever."

" Yes, but they've gotten the chance to know each other again."

" Their love spans time, and so does ours. That's all the explanation you need. I'll always remain in touch. And Rei can take my place as leader."

So, that's what it came to. I was making plans to leave Crystal Tokyo forever, and only three of my friends knew about it. There were only a few minor details that were keeping me at bay.

Kunzite and I were taking a walk near the border of the city when I sensed Queen Serenity and Sailor Mars walking behind us. Without turning, I whispered in Kunzite's ear.

" Kunzite, the Queen is behind us."

" Well, what do we do?"

" We have to get out of here, my love." I came around in front of him, so that I could see behind us, and he still faced ahead. We continued to walk and I took my star pen from my pocket. Then I stopped walking, and he stopped too. I was prepared to fight my friends for Kunzite, if need be.

" Watch out, Kunzite." I whispered to him.

" Venus Star Power!" I cried, reaching towards the sky. I could see my friends' looks of surprise as Kunzite stepped behind me. I heard their shouts as they saw Kunzite's face.

" Sailor Venus, behind you!" Sailor Mars shouted.

" Mars Celestial…" Mars began.

" Venus Love Chain Encircle!" I shouted, aiming my beam at her. Sailor Mars was shocked, so shocked that she forgot to dodge and the beam hit her.

" I don't want to hurt you Sailor Mars, but no one is going to hurt the man I love!" I called.

" Sailor Mars, cease fire!" Queen Serenity appeared before me.

" Sailor Venus, step back. You cannot love our enemy."

" He's not our enemy. Kunzite is my one true love." I stepped back into his arms. He held me.

" He is our enemy, Sailor Venus. He tried to kill us. Don't you remember?" As Queen Serenity spoke, Sailor Mars came up from the side.

" Venus Crescent Beam Smash!" I fired at her again.

" He has brainwashed you, Sailor Venus. Kunzite is dangerous. He only cares about himself." Kunzite stepped back and officially out of the city, and I put one foot back. Now I was half in and half out of Crystal Tokyo.

" If you can't live with our love, then I can't live with you." I cried. I stepped back again and turned. I kissed Kunzite as Queen Serenity and Sailor Mars looked on. Sailor Mars looked at Queen Serenity, and she nodded.

" Mars celestial fire…" As she was about to fire at us, Sailor Mercury, Sailor Jupiter, and King Endymion stepped before them.

"Mercury Bubbles Blast!" Mercury fired the bubbles into the air and Kunzite and I ran off into the fog.

For some time now, Kunzite and I have been living in London. I started making Sailor V movies again. After all, it is a steady job. I often get letters from Mamoru, Ami, and Makato. I guess I miss Rei and Usagi, but we parted badly and they probably still don't trust me. Oh well, at least I have Kunzite, and I suppose that's all that really matters to me for the time being.

Ami's Story

I signed on to the Internet around seven at night, ready to get some research done for my anatomy paper. See, I've been studying now for a year. I'm working on pre-med. right now, but soon I'll start medical school. I pulled out a piece of paper to take notes on my findings, and just as I pulled the cap off my pen, there was a knock at the door. I sighed and got up to answer it.

" Princess, you have an urgent message from her majesty, Queen Serenity." The servant, Jonathan was his name, handed me an envelope with the royal seal on it. I opened it quickly. Holding it up to the tall lamp near the door, I read the message.

" Dear Ami,

It's me, good old Usagi. Sorry I haven't seen you in so long. I realize I was wrong in attacking Kunzite. I'm sorry we fought, and I want to resolve. There is a guest in Crystal Tokyo. He has requested to see you. Meet me tonight in the royal gallery.

Your friend,

Usagi "

Quickly, I wrote a message of acceptance and gave it to Jonathan. Then he left and I shut the door. Are you confused yet? See, about a month ago, Kunzite and Minako were chased out of the city by Queen Serenity and Sailor Mars. (It's all written out in Minako's Story) Makato and I got very angry at the loss of our friend. We even fought against our own queen, as well as the new leader of the Sailor Scouts. Yet, it was time to resolve as Usagi had said. I turned back to the monitor and began my research.

The next night, I searched quickly through my closet and pulled out a blue halter dress. After dressing, I slipped a pink rose bud into my hair and stepped out the door of my royal chambers. Outside, it was foggy and looked like it was about to rain. The sky looked very depressing.

I pushed open the doors of the royal art gallery and looked around. I was early, or perhaps really late, but I doubted the latter was the case. While I was waiting, I stopped and stared up at the royal family portrait. As I eyed it more closely, a hand fell on my shoulder. I turned. There stood Queen Serenity.

" Your highness," I curtsied, bowing my head.

" Relax, Ami. It's only me, Usagi. I don't think it's a very good likeness. I was thinking of having it redone."

" Oh no, Usagi. I think you look exquisite."

" Thank you. Well, I guess it's just the two of us. Rei still doesn't trust my guest, and Makato is still on her honeymoon. I'll summon our guest in a bit."

Just then, the doors of the gallery opened and a man with curly blond hair tied loosely in a ponytail stood in the doorway. His eyes were pea-green, his suit gray. The lining of the suit was green, like his eyes. His boots were knee-high and shiny. I recognized the man right away as…

" Oh dear, you've ruined my surprise. Well, come in, come in, it's rude to lurk in doorways." The man walked in and bowed to me, and then to the queen. " Ami, you remember Zoicite don't you?"

" Yes, I remember. How could I forget? He tried to kill Tuxedo Mask." I replied, coldly.

" No, Princess. Queen Beryl's general tried to kill Tuxedo Mask. I did not. I was simply an innocent bystander."

" Sure."

" Ami, don't be so cold. Zoicite is just like Kunzite. Awoken from eternal sleep by my subconscious, Zoicite is here to renew his destiny, and yours." I stared at Usagi.

After a long discussion, Usagi and I relaxed against opposite walls. We'd been discussing Zoicite, our new visitor. He'd been my fiancé on the moon, Usagi told me. We were to wed soon after Usagi and Prince Darien were, but Zoicite (and the other three generals) were captured by Queen Beryl and brainwashed, creating the four Dark Kingdom generals that the Sailor Scouts fought on the Moon, as well as on Earth. Zoicite killed me during the battle between the Moon Kingdom and the Dark Kingdom. I reasoned that my memories could have been placed in the back of my mind, so as to not sway me from killing my enemies. Still, I couldn't accept the fact that Zoicite was now a part of my life. It was too hard to grasp.

Later that night, a knock came at the door once again. I answered it. Zoicite stood there, no longer in his signature suit. He now wore a pair of jeans and a casual dress shirt.

" Um, Zoicite, hi…" I knew that came out sounding odd. Question was, did I mean to do that?

" Are you busy, Princess? If you are, I can come back later. I wouldn't want to disturb you."

" No, I'm not busy. Please, come in." I invited him into the parlor that attached to my series of rooms. I sat down in the desk chair, and Zoicite sat at the table.

" Queen Serenity told me that you didn't remember anything, so I came to tell you about our past, I mean if that's all right."

" Anything to help me remember. Minako remembered so quickly. It was as if she was just waiting for him to show his face."

" Well, once upon a time, you and I, and the others, spent most of our time in the Moon Kingdom. After all, our destinies had brought us there. I was one of the four protectors of Prince Endymion. I was from Earth, and had grown up there alongside Endymion. He was one of my best pals. Well, he was in love with the Moon Princess, Princess Serenity. So, gathering his four protectors, we went to the moon. While there, I met Princess Ami of the Mercury Kingdom. She was a permanent resident at Princess Serenity's court. I was enchanted by her beauty, and the fact that she was so smart."

" Princess Ami and I hit it off great and after a few months, we were completely and utterly in love. After gathering a bit of courage, I asked her to be my wife. I wasn't interested in the throne back in her kingdom. All I wanted was my princess. She said yes, but I suppose at that time, it just wasn't meant to be. Soon after we were engaged, tension grew thick back on Earth. Even before we could return, chaos erupted. Prince Endymion told Kunzite, Jedite, Nephrite, and me to guard the Moon Kingdom."

" Unfortunately, we were all captured towards the beginning of the invasion. With so much power, Queen Metallia brainwashed us all, forcing us to fight against our friends, and the ones we loved. Resistance was futile, and I still remember striking Sailor Mercury down with my newfound dark powers. It's something I'll never forgive myself for."

" Oh, Zoicite, it sounds like a twisted tale of 'Romeo and Juliet'." I dabbed at my eyes with a tissue.

" I'm sorry I made you cry, Princess."

" Please, call me Ami."

" I don't think I've ever called you 'Ami' before. I've always called you Princess. At least, I did when you were one."

" I see. Can I ask you something personal?"

" Of course,"

" Do you still love me, truthfully?"

" As if I never stopped."

" And when you were under Beryl's control?"

" It was as if that wasn't me. I remember everything I did to hurt you all, and I can only ask for your forgiveness. I had no control over my actions."

" Oh, if only I could remember…"

" I'll try my best to help you."

Zoicite continued to visit me over a period of weeks, and I spent a lot of time talking on the Internet with Minako. One evening, she called me up.

" Ami, hi!" she said.

" Hi Minako, how is everything?"

" Oh you know. Same old, same old. How are you and Zoicite?"

" It's awful. Having him around, telling me stories, I feel so bad that I can't remember."

" I don't know what to say. I remembered so easily, with my dreams. It just came naturally."

" Yeah, I know. It was the same way for Usagi. Her heartache helped her to remember."

One night, as I sat reading an old novel, Zoicite came in. I looked up, and half-smiled.

" I've just remembered something I know you'll love to hear." Zoicite sat under the reading lamp across from where I was sprawled in my armchair.

" Back on the Mercury Kingdom, where my true love was from, a young man sat at his dinner table. He eyed his wife idly, the baby she held in her arms whimpered softly. The little baby girl was so smart and sweet. King Hermes was so proud of his wife and tiny daughter. As time passed, Queen Cecilia gave birth to a son and the young Princess Ami was sent to the great Moon Kingdom to live in the royal court."

" After a long time, King Hermes grew old and wise. He knew long before Queen Serenity that Earth would be overcome with evil. King Hermes also knew that his daughter was in danger. So, King Hermes took his army to Earth to destroy the invaders from the Dark Kingdom. He knew that Queen Metallia had yet to invade Earth, so he waited for her until she emerged. When she did, they were ready for her. They fought boldly, but their forces were not strong enough, and Hermes' army was taken over by Queen Metallia and Queen Beryl. With the combined forces of her army and that of King Hermes, Queen Metallia invaded and took over Earth, as well as the kingdoms surrounding the Moon."

I had begun to cry, and I pulled a tissue from the box on the table beside me.

" Kunzite and I stood on the front lines, waiting for Queen Metallia, and as they cleared the horizon we saw King Hermes, Queen Hera, Queen Aphrodite, and King Aries heading up the army. Their eyes shone red with hate. Terrified, I attacked."

"Stop!" I cried. I could see my father in my head. He looked sad and distraught. I pulled myself out of the armchair and hugged Zoicite. As I sat in his arms, Zoicite apologizing quietly, memories flooded into my head. Pictures of my father and my mother mixed with visions of my tiny brother trying on the royal crown. It sank around his head, and I saw myself laughing at him. I saw Princess Serenity and I dancing playfully across the royal ballroom, and Princess Makato and Princess Rei laughing at us. Princess Minako and Artemis tangoed across the floor as well.

Then there were scenes that could surely fit into romantic novels like the ones Minako loved to read. Makato and Nephrite splashing in the lake behind the palace; Rei and Jedite running after each other across the gardens; Kunzite pushing Minako on a swing tied up to the branch of a giant oak tree; and Zoicite and I sitting in the observatory on clear nights. We were watching the meteor showers head towards Earth.

Zoicite looked at me, his eyes warm.

" Maybe you should get some sleep, Princess. I'll see you tomorrow." I nodded and climbed into bed, pulling off my slippers. Zoicite kissed me on the forehead, and I fell asleep.

As my mind drifted in sleep, I caught a valuable memory in vivid detail. Zoicite and I were walking along the left bank of the small river in front of the palace and he kneeled.

" Oh Zoicite, what are you up to?" I laughed.

" Princess Ami, my only wish is to have my princess in my arms for all time. Will you honor me in being my wife?"

"Yes, oh yes, my love."

Zoicite and I walked past the magnolias in the gardens of Crystal Tokyo. After that dream, we'd been seeing each other more often. Many times, we'd share our dreams of the past, and our hopes for the future. Zoicite picked a rose from the garden and handed it to me. He turned and took my hands in his. I smiled at him, and he bent to one knee.

" Oh Zoicite, what are you up to?" I laughed, sniffing the rose.

" Princess Ami, my only wish is to have my princess in my arms for all time."

" And mine is to be with you."

" Tell me truthfully, do you still love me?"

" As if I never stopped."

" Then honor me in being my wife?"

" Yes, oh yes, my love."

Rei's Story

I'm so lonely. Everyone has someone to love him or her except me. This is what I found written on my personal scrolls so many years ago. I was just then deciding to leave Mars. Maybe I should take you back, back to last year. Last year I was the loneliest person in my kingdom. There couldn't have been anyone lonelier than me.

I had decided that I was missing something in my life and that I would go in search of it. What was it I was looking for? I was in search of something that all my friends possessed. I was searching for love. The royal council protested to my leaving, just as I knew they would. Yet I was insistent. After all, I was the Queen, and could do whatever I pleased-within reason.

After setting things straight with the council, I sent for Naru and Nephrite. These two fine people were my trusted friends. They helped out around Mars and lived in the right wing of Olympus, my palace.

" Lady Naru, I need to ask a favor of you."

" Anything, your highness."

" I need you and Lord Nephrite to watch over Olympus in my absence."

" Where are you going, your highness?"

" To Earth on an extended visit."

" Are you going to see Serenity?"

" For a short while, but my trip is not to see Serenity I'm afraid."

" Is there trouble?"

" No. Take good care of our home, Naru. I'll return when I can."

Then I went to my royal chambers and began packing my bags. I packed little of my things, for I knew that I would not need such trivial items where I was headed. And where was I headed? Back, back to the past. I was headed to a little village known as Arcania. There, love waited for me.

I left for Earth as the evening sun fell towards the red streaked horizon, and Phoebes and Demos hung in the sparkling sunset. I knew I'd miss the heavenly sunsets of my home, as well as the majestic satellites that filled the sky. Then I looked up. Earth looked so far away, but I knew it would not take long to get there. Pulling my royal robes around me, I disappeared and traveled like space dust to Earth.

Crystal Tokyo looked more beautiful than how I remembered it. I hadn't been there in a year, since I'd been working so hard on my own kingdom. The territory of the palace was expanding, that much I knew. Lifting my bags over my shoulder and picking up the edge of my satin dress, I headed into the kingdom. I pushed through the doors of the palace after sweetly greeting the guards, and carried my things through the palace, searching for the queen. I saw Zoicite after a bit of searching and he waved and hurried over. As he kneeled, I took his hand and he rose. Then I hugged him tightly and he took my bags.

" Zoicite, where is everyone?"

" The young Princess and Helios are down in the gardens, and King Endymion is around somewhere. I couldn't really tell you where Queen Serenity is though,"

" And how are Ami and the baby?"

" Oh, they're doing all right. Actually, I think Ami may be with Serenity. Where shall I put your bags, Athena?"

" Pick a room, any room. I don't know how long I'll be staying."

As Zoicite walked away, I looked around. Staring at the tapestries on the wall, I didn't even hear the footsteps behind me.

" Rei!" he shouted with glee. I turned just as King Endymion lifted me up and twirled me around.

" Mamoru! It's been so long. Oh heavens, put me down."

" Sorry, the moment overcame me. I'm just so happy."

" Happy? Just to see me?"

" Well, partly. Have you seen Usako?"

" No. Why?"

" Come on, you have to see her." Mamoru grabbed my arm and ran off with me. It was hard to keep up with him in my infernal red satin dress and high heels that clicked as we ran. When we got to the royal chambers, Mamoru knocked dutifully.

" Who is it?"

" Queen Athena and King Endymion to see Queen Serenity." King Endymion chuckled. The door opened with a smiling Usagi. She beamed with grace.

" Oh, Mamo-chan, you're so formal. Rei!" Usagi hugged me too.

Usagi and I sat alone in the art gallery, talking up a storm amongst sips of tea.

" So tell me, Usagi, why is Mamoru-chan so happy?"

" Well, today I found out I was having another baby."

" That's fantastic!" I exclaimed, secretly wishing I were having a baby instead. After all, Usagi already had a child. She didn't need another one when I had none.

" So, tell me, Rei, why are you here? I know it is not to visit with me or any of my subjects. I'm not foolish. Tell me, why have you come to Earth?"

" To seek an old flame, if you will."

" And which old flame is this?"

" Surely you remember Connor of Arcania?"

" You're going back in time?"

" Yes. I realize that Connor is my one true love, just as yours in Mamoru."

" You'd leave your kingdom for a dream?"

" Connor is not a dream."

" I don't mean that he is a dream. I mean that he may not remember you."

" Don't crush me, Usagi. I've made up my mind. I'm going to Arcania. I'm going to the past."

That night, after a small dinner in the kitchen, I picked up the dresses I'd ordered earlier that day, and went to the time portal near the end of town. Then I slipped through the portal and into subspace.

When I got to the path, I walked quickly, hoping to reach Arcania by nightfall. I wasn't sure how long it had been since the Sailor Scouts had left Arcania, but I hoped it wasn't as long as it had been in my time. I didn't reach Arcania until after dark, and when I got there, everyone was inside. I knocked on the first door I saw and it opened quickly. The door belonged to the old man, an old man that I knew but didn't know.

" Raye?" he asked.

" Yes, I am Rei."

" How wonderful to see you again!" he smiled and hugged me, despite my not recognizing him.

I awakened to the sound of chirping and glanced around a bit. I was on an uncomfortable hay bed with a small piece of woolen cloth over me. My hair was a mess and my eyes heavy with sleep. A tiny rat scampered under a table, squeaking like mad. I pulled myself up off the mattress and looked out the hole in the wall that appeared to resemble a window. Outside, a few goats wandered aimlessly, and two women squabbled over a bucket of spilled water. The sun was bright, yet glimpses of the moon still lurked. I saw a young foal carrying a few packs on her back, and following her was a miller and a little boy.

I turned away from the window and pulled on some cloth shoes and pulled my brush through my dark hair. Then I changed into a blue dress and a tight fitting leather bodice. I stepped out the wooden door and shut it behind me. I'd grabbed a piece of bread off the table on my way out of the tiny cottage and began chewing bites as I wandered around. There was now a well in the middle of the city. I remembered that it hadn't been there before. There was a new cottage next to the old man's. It was not yet covered in vines like the others.

A goat rubbed against my leg and I knelt down to touch its short fur. A boy ran up to me and grabbed the goat by a rope around its neck.

" Hello, little one. What's your name?"

" Corin," he mumbled.

" What a sweet name. My name is Rei."

" Raye, is that you?" I looked up from the face of the little boy. The miller, Marcus Small, stood smiling at me. I had stayed with Marcus for the duration of my stay in Arcania while on our mission.

" Marcus!" I hugged him.

" It's so good to see you Raye, you've been gone so long."

" It's good to see you too, Marcus. I've missed you. And this young boy, is he yours?"

" Oh heavens no! This is Seamus's new apprentice."

" But he's so young,"

" Yes, but he will learn the elder's ways before he dies,"

" Dies?"

" Yes Raye, Seamus doesn't have long now. He's very ill these days."

" There is nothing you can do for him?"

" No."

" That's awful."

" Please Raye, tell me why you have returned. It has been so long since you left."

" How long has it been Marcus? I've lost track of time."

" Why at least a year, lass."

" A year! Tell me, what of Connor? Is he well?"

" Yes, lass. Connor is well. He missed Serena and you for a long time, still does I imagine."

" Serena?" I thought to myself, and then remembered, Serenity.

" Is Connor working today?"

" No. He should be down on the field with his horse."

" Thank you, Marcus. I must go see him."

I hurried down to the old battlefield. It looked so different from the way I remembered it. At that time it had been strewn with dead and dying bodies, mud filled ditches, and warriors fighting the forces of darkness. I spotted Connor riding Darien's black stallion, Apollo, across the field. A large wolf, known as Io, followed behind Apollo.

" Connor!" I called out to him. The horse stopped and headed towards me. When Connor saw me, his face brightened and I blushed.

" Raye!" He cried and dismounted. He ran towards me and hugged me tight. I hugged back, tiny tears falling from my eyes.

" Connor, I'm so happy now that I've found you."

" Where did you go?"

" Home."

" But Serena said you didn't remember where you came from,"

" We lied to protect your innocence. Anyways, I'm back now."

" You lied to me?"

" To protect you, like I said."

" What did you lie about? Who are you?"

" I'm Queen Athena,"

" You're a goddess?"

" No,"

" Yes, you must be. Seamus told me about the fire you possess, and how you told the Amazons that you control fire."

" I'm not a goddess, Connor. I'm a warrior."

" Warriors don't possess magic."

" Most warriors don't, but I do."

" I don't believe you."

" I swear, I'm telling the truth."

" How can I trust you? You lied to me."

" I apologize for that, but I've explained myself."

" So, if you are a queen, what are you queen of?"

" Mars,"

" What is Mars?"

" A planet, like Earth. Mars is a whole other world which I rule, in the future."

" You really are a goddess! Or maybe just a witch."

" I assure you I'm neither."

* * * *

After spending two hours explaining myself to Connor, he finally understood. We were still on the field, sitting on the grass.

" You shouldn't be here, Raye."

" Why?"

" You don't belong here anymore."

" Why not?"

" It's not right to travel through time. You should be with your people in your kingdom."

" I came for you, Connor. I came to find my true hearts' desire, and that desire is for you to rule beside me."

" I can't."

" Why not?"

" I have a life here, Raye. I can't leave. Besides, your world would confuse me."

" I could explain it all to you."

" No, you couldn't. Just as you no longer belong in Arcania, I can never belong at Olympus."

" Then let me abandon my kingdom. Let me belong with you again."

" Can you do that, Raye?"

" I can do anything I want. I'm the queen."

" Don't get me wrong, I want to be with you, but I don't think it would be right to abandon your kingdom just like that."

" Then let me stay just for awhile, Connor. I can't leave just yet."

* * * *

I took up my job with the miller once again, and often spent time with Seamus, though most of the time, I was with Connor. We rode horses across the field, or looked at the stars on warm nights. On evening, I was sitting in my room and Connor entered.

" Connor, what are you doing here?"

" Maggie told me there was something wrong."

" There's nothing wrong, Connor. In fact, there is something very right. I didn't even notice it until now, but I could never be happier."

" What is it?"

" I'm having a baby, Connor."

" A baby?"

" Yes, your baby."

" You can't have a baby!"

" Why not?"

" Because you aren't married,"

" So, let's get married, Connor."

" We've been through this, Raye. I can't marry you because you'll be leaving."

" When will I be leaving?"

" Before anyone notices that you're pregnant."

" What are you saying?"

" You should leave now, Raye."

" Will you come with me?"

" No." Connor looked at me sternly.

" I can't leave without you, Connor. I refuse."

" You will leave, Raye. You no longer have a choice."

* * * *

One night, after kissing Connor goodbye, I left Arcania. I carved my name into a tree near the portal, and near it I left Connor's name and the date. Then I stepped through the portal, tears in my eyes.

I'm not so lonely now, with my two small twin boys. Connor's boys, Marcus and Tiernan, love Olympus, and enjoy spending time with ChibiUsa when we visit Earth. Even though Connor and I never married, I consider Usagi my sister-in-law, and the boys consider her their aunt, which she is.