Stars in a New Sky

Chapter 22: Chance Encounter

Mamoru exchanged a worried glance with Luna. After Minako's revelation, the room had erupted with outrage, everyone speaking at once. The only people who remained silent were Selene and Usagi. The deep sadness in the goddess' eyes had ignited a gnawing fear in the pit of his stomach. Images of Usagi's laughter and smiled flashed in his mind. That someone so vital and alive could die was unthinkable.  While Nyx managed to gain control of the room, her words had not gone far to pacify the Sailor Guardians. They'd gone their separate ways still bristling with anger.

Even on the walk home, Usagi remained silent. It wasn't like her to be this quiet. He found himself longing for her energetic chatter. He wracked his brain for something to say, anything to pull her out of this interminable silence. His casual comment about the weather went unanswered. The only reaction he got was a wan smile. 

"I'll go inside first and take care of Usagi's parents." Luna murmured quietly when they came to a stop at Usagi's front gate.

Mamoru nodded, watching the black cat blend into the shadows. "Usagi?"

Usagi looked up, fresh tears shimmering in her eyes. "I'm so afraid." She whispered a moment before throwing herself into Mamoru's arms. Stunned, Mamoru wrapped his arms around her trembling shoulders and gently rubbed her back. "Don't worry. I'll protect you. The Sailor Guardians will protect you."

"W-what if I die?! You heard what Nyx said. Only a full goddess can wield the Silver Crystal and--" Usagi stopped short, unable to blurt out the dark fear growing within her.

Mamoru leaned back and gazed down at her tear stained face. Wiping a tear away with his thumb he cupped her face. "We will figure something out. I promise, no matter what happens, I'll always be by your side." His stomach dropped as a past life memory intruded on the present. Princess Serenity was staring up at him half in hope and half in despair, tears filling her eyes. Though they stood in a lush garden, he could feel the sense of impending doom on the air. 

His chest tightened. Though he wasn't sure if this was Endymion's feelings or his own, at this moment he didn't care. All he wanted was to take away some of Usagi's fear. Leaning down, Mamoru brushed a soft kiss against her lips.

Usagi stiffened in surprise. She wasn't expecting him to kiss her. Her heart raced in her chest as she relaxed in his embrace. Rising on her tip toes, she eagerly returned his kiss. A warm feeling encircled her heart and chased away the sour fear in her stomach. This felt right...familiar. They had done this before a long time ago. 

When they parted, Usagi looked up into his face. Mamoru's gentle smile and kind eyes warmed her soul. Protect him. Princess Serenity's voice echoed in her mind. "Promise, we'll stay together no matter what."

Mamoru's smile widened. Some of the fear and sadness had faded from her eyes. "Of course."

Luna watched her princess from the upstairs window. She felt so helpless. It seemed history was destined to repeat itself. Even if they found the Silver Crystal Usagi would probably die if she used it to fight Metalia. In her current state, she was in no condition to fight Metalia let alone use the Silver Crystal. Queen Serenity, though powerful, had not ascended to godhood. Between that and her emotional distress, she hadn't survived the power of the Silver Crystal. 

How's Usagi? Artemis' voice echoed in her mind.

Luna sighed. She's been very quiet. Too quiet.

Consider yourself lucky. Minako hasn't stopped talking.

Luna smothered a chuckle at Artemis' exasperation. But is it so surprising?

No. I don't like this either. 

Nor do I, but we have to have faith in our princess. We have to help her discover her strength.