"Sailor Moon Alternity" By Daryll Pung

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Sailor Moon Alternity

By Daryll Pung

Part 1: The Beginning

PG13

Round 1: One of Those Bright Sunny Days

       6:58...

      6:59...

      7:00.  The numbers changed, and the alarm went off, startling Serena out of her bed.  As she climbed off the floor and staggered over to her clock, a single thought went through her head... WHAT!?  She hit the button, and the noise was silenced.

      "Well, this is a first," yawned Luna.  "You've never woken to the alarm before!"

      "Yeah, I know," muttered Serena, still half asleep.  "I don't know why either.  But my bed looks so... comfortable..." she trailed off as she climbed back in bed and pulled the pillow over her head.

      Luna rolled her eyes.

       "Well, she actually awakened to the alarm today.  Of course, she promptly rolled over and went back to sleep, but it did happen!" Luna said to the other girls.

      Serena flushed at their giggles.

      "Umm, guys?" Serena began.

      "Yes, Serena?" asked Amy.

      "Is it just me, or has absolutely nothing been happening with the Negaverse lately?" Serena said thoughtfully.

      Amy, Lita, Samantha, Melanie, and Mina all sat back, puzzling that thought over.  Finally, Amy spoke.

      "You're right.  We know they have a new leader, although we still don't know who... but it's been months since the incident with Melanie and nothing's happened since."

      Melanie blushed.

      "Don't worry, Mel, we don't blame you for what happened," Mina said soothingly.

      "Hmmm..." said Lita.

      "What?" asked Samantha.

      "Look at that guy over there!  He looks just like my ex-boyfriend!  He's so cute!" Lita said in a daze.

      Everyone rolled their eyes.  As they all stood to get back to school, perhaps only Amy noticed the dark-haired stranger that ducked behind the tree nearby.

      Huh? thought Amy.  Who's that?

      That's them.  They are the ones... most of them, anyway.  I have to warn them before that jerk from the Negaverse can activate any more nodes... but if need be, I can trick them into fighting in a preplanned node... if they don't heed my warning, of course.  He typed on his microcomputer.  I know just how to set this up if they ignore me...

      Luna was walking back towards Serena's house to await the girls' return from school when the hand reached out of the bush and grabbed her.  She found herself set on the ground.  As she turned around to face her foe, she heard a voice.

      "Shhhh!  Keep quiet!  I mean you no harm!"

      Luna turned to face a crouching young man with dark hair.  He was tall, dressed in casual clothes, with sneakers and sunglasses finishing his outfit.  He put a finger to his lips.

      "What do you want?" asked Luna quietly.

      "I need to speak with you and every last one of the Sailor Scouts this evening in this park!  Right at sundown!  Don't be late!"  With that, the stranger vanished into the park.

      Luna could only look on as he disappeared, puzzled.  She turned and proceeded back to Serena's house.

      "And I don't know if he was from the Negaverse or not," said Luna.  "I didn't sense any evil about him... as a matter of fact, I didn't sense anything!"

      "I see," said Amy.

      "It's almost time," interrupted Lita.  "We better contact everybody."

      "Should we appear as Sailor Scouts?" asked Serena.

      "That's your call," advised Luna.  Serena nodded and began contacting the other Scouts.

      A half hour later, the group entered the park.  The nighttime gave a spooky feel to their surroundings, and the soft mist that hung low to the ground heightened the sense of mystery.  They neared the center of the park.

      "I thought he said he'd be here?" murmured Raye.

      "I am," came a reply from right behind the group.  Everyone whirled.  He was wearing the same outfit as before, this time augmented with a black jacket.

      "What's all this about?" demanded Serena.

      "It's simple, really.  I have a warning for all of you," he answered.

      "All of us?  I don't even know some of these people.  What does this have to do with all of us?" asked Serena, feigning confusion as Raye rolled her eyes.

      "Nice try, Sailor Moon," he grinned.  Serena's jaw dropped, and the other girls' eyes went wide.

      "How...how do you know that?  Who are you?" Serena stuttered.

      "Who I am is of no concern to you.  All that matters is what I have to say to all of you Sailor Scouts, including your auxiliaries."

      "Auxiliaries?" asked Serena, glancing at Amy.

      "He means Luna, Artemis, Darien, and Reeni," she whispered.

      "Oh," said Serena, turning her gaze back to the mystery man.

      "Heed my warning, Sailor Scouts.  A new threat from your nemesis, the Negaverse, is attempting to unravel the threads that define our existence.  Show your faces anytime in the coming month, while the junction is right, and you may find yourselves far from here.  He is known as Darkstrike.  That is all," he finished.  He turned and disappeared into the mist.

      "Wait!" called Lita.

      It was too late.  He was gone.

      "What did all that mean?  Amy?" asked Serena.

      "I'm not sure...we better head to the temple to discuss this!" Amy said.

      "I agree," said Luna.

      "To Raye's temple, then!" said Serena.  The group turned and left.

      Serena glanced back as they left, but she didn't notice him in the shadow of a large tree, watching them with a thoughtful expression on his face.

Round 2: Cryptic Warnings and Strange Occurrences

       "I don't know how he knew who we were.  We've always been most careful about our identities.  How could he have found out?" asked Mina.

      "More importantly, how did he know who all of us are?  We don't appear very often," said Michelle, indicating herself and the other Outer Scouts, sitting near the fire in the temple.

      "Back to his warning... what did it all mean?" questioned Amara.

      "'Unravel the threads of our existence'?  'Junction'?  'Far from here'?  What does it all mean?" puzzled Samantha.

      "I'm not sure," answered Amy.  "I just remembered, I saw him watching us at lunch today.  Who knows how long he's been watching us?  He seems to be good at blending in with his surroundings.  As for the warning... it might have some connotation with maybe combining the Negaverse with our universe..."

      "That would be awful!" exclaimed Trista.

      "We can't let that happen!" said Raye.

      "I said maybe!  I'm not sure exactly what he means.  Talk about mysterious messages..." Amy thought.

      "And if he thinks we're going to hide when people may be in danger from the Negaverse, he's nuts!  The Sailor Scouts will not let innocent people suffer!" Serena declared angrily.  She still hadn't recovered from the shock of him knowing who she was.

      "Calm down, Serena," soothed Darien.

      "I can't!" she snapped.

      Melanie yawned.  "I think we should sleep on this... it may make more sense tomorrow."

      "Sounds good," said Lita.

      Serena nodded.

      The Scouts split, agreeing to meet the next day.  They all headed for their respective houses, unaware of the figure crouched in the tree near them.

      I thought they wouldn't listen, not that I blame them... that just means that if Darkstrike is going to drop them through a node, it might as well be one that is preplanned.  Let's see if I can't set this up right... 

      The next day, Serena was on the way home when she caught sight of someone following her.  She ducked into the arcade and watched the figure walk by.  She recognized him as the guy who had given her the warning the previous night!  His glance caught hers.  She moved towards the exit to intercept him when an explosion occurred across the street.  Several cars went flying, people screaming.  Serena gasped as a tall being in a black cape strolled out of the smoke.

      "Ha ha ha...puny humans!  Darkstrike is here!  Will no one stand up to me?" he shouted.  He was dressed in pure black, with a black cape and glistening fangs.  His glowing green eyes swept the crowd.

      Serena pulled out her Sailor communicator when his hand clamped her arm.  Startled, she looked right at him.  He glared at her.

      "Not here, not now..." he said.  "I'll take care of this!"

      "How?" Serena asked in surprise.

      He let go of her arm and pushed through the crowd.

      "Hey, moron," he called.

      Darkstrike glare at him, and then launched a white ball of energy at him.  To his surprise, his target nimbly rolled out of the way, coming up with a black handgun, firing twice.  Darkstrike was surprised, but dodged the bullets almost casually.

      "Nice moves, but do you really think a simple human firearm is going to hurt me?" he roared.

      "Does it matter?" the mystery guy answered with a smile.

      "You impudent whelp!  I think you're going to another world!"  Darkstrike grinned as he opened a vortex right on his adversary.  To his surprise, his adversary warded off and closed the vortex.

      "Tell ya what, why don't we settle this later tonight, in the park?" said his cocky foe.  "I have things I need to do, and this could prove interesting.  Say, just after nightfall?"

      "Only if you bring the Sailor Scouts!" Darkstrike roared.

      "Deal... catch you later, Darkstrike," he said, tossing him a salute as he began to turn.

      "Wait!" called Darkstrike.  "You know who I am, but I don't know who you are!"

      "My codename is Stryfe.  That's all you need to know!"  He disappeared into the crowd.

      "Humph... not smart!  Now I have plenty of time to find his weakness!  Ha ha ha ha!" Darkstrike grinned evilly, then disappeared in a puff of black smoke.

      As the crowd began to disperse, murmuring about this unusual event, Serena felt someone grab her arm and drag her into the alley.  She found herself spun around and pushed against the wall.

      "Hey-" she began to shout, only to have her mouth covered.  It was him gain, the one calling himself Stryfe.

      "I will release you if you do not draw any attention to us," he said in a low, urgent tone.  She nodded, eyes wide.  "Pretty eyes.  Very well, I am going to release you now."

      He removed his hand from her mouth and let her go.  She took a second to compose herself, and then glared at him.

      "How dare you!" she hissed.  "Saying you'll bring us!  How do you know who we are?  What did all that you said last night mean?  And you can't honestly expect us not to defend-"

      He cut her off.  "Relax.  If you follow me, I see I must explain some things.  Let's go."  He turned and began walking off.

      "Wait!" she called, and then ran after him.

      Twenty minutes later, they entered the park.  He waved her to follow closely.  Serena nodded.  After ducking through bushes and dodging around several trees, he halted in front of a boulder and pulled out a microcomputer.  She crossed her arms.

      "Call all your friends here," he said.

      "Why?" she asked.

      "You want answers or not?" he asked mildly.

      She just looked at him.  He sighed.

      "I will explain everything if you get your friends here now.  Darkstrike isn't going to wait forever, and I must prepare you," Stryfe said.

      "Fine," she said.  Keeping her eyes on him, she activated her Sailor communicator.  Within an hour, they were all gathered around him at the boulder.  He surveyed them, seeing some curious expressions, some angry.  Shrugging, he typed in the code on his microcomputer, and half the boulder opened to reveal a set of stairs going down.

      "Follow me," Stryfe said.  Turning, he walked down into the darkness.

 Round 3: Answers and Questions

       Stryfe led the way down the stairs, activating his hand beacon as they moved down.  Behind him, all the members of the Sailor Scouts walked.  They were startled when they heard the sound of the boulder closing behind them.

      "Great," murmured Raye.  "Why do I have a bad feeling about this?"

      Stryfe scowled at them.  "Come on!"

      He led them into a futuristic chamber, with computer consoles everywhere.  The vast chamber had a central seating area, as well as a comfortable room off to one side for relaxation.  The hum of air conditioning was barely audible above the sounds of the computers.  In the alcove to the left was some interesting equipment.  Not even Amy could identify its purpose.

      He grabbed one of the chairs, turned it around, and straddled it.  He motioned for the rest of them to make themselves comfortable.

      "Why should we trust you?" asked Darien.

      "Because you have no choice," answered Stryfe.  "There are bad happenings on the horizon, and if I don't prepare you, things could get desolate really quick."

      He removed his sunglasses to reveal his brown eyes.  "First, introductions.  I know who all of you are, including your heroic alter egos.  I am Stryfe.  That is the only name I go by."

      "Wait a minute... I've seen that name in the news," said Amy in surprise.  "You are a mercenary!"

      "On the surface, yes."

      "First, could you explain your message to us?" asked Amy.  "Does it have to do with Darkstrike joining our universe with the Negaverse?"

      "Partially.  That is his first goal.  He has mastered using the nodes to banish people, although that is the limit of his knowledge.  He was our contact in the Prime known as the Negaverse, but like most in that dark place, the power went to his head.  We are working to prevent further knowledge from getting to him, and to restore what he's messed with," explained Stryfe.

      "Wait a minute... Nodes?  Prime?" asked Amy.

      "Who's 'we'?" asked Michelle.

      "'We' is the Order of Planar Preservation," said Stryfe.  He sighed, and then stood up.  "Okay.  Imagine you have the universe in the palm of your hand.  It looks like a big sphere.  You crack it in half.  You see the inside is divided.  First, there are approximately twenty segments around the outer edge.  These are planes of existence we call the Outer Planes, or Planes of Power.  They are generally not nice places.  Then there is a vast inner section, one solid sphere.  This is the Astral Plane.  The most common thing you see here is nothingness, with an occasional silver cord stretching across the distance.  These silver cords are the lifelines of travelers there.  Okay so far?"

      "What's a 'Plane'?" asked Melanie.

      "If I am understanding this right, an alternate reality, right?" said Amy.

      "Essentially correct.  Planes are homes to many different beings.  Places like 'Heaven', 'Hell', and the like are places in the Outer Planes.  Mysterious happenings here on this plane of existence, such as the Bermuda Triangle, are simply Nodes, more on that in a minute.  To continue my analogy, the next layer is divided into ten segments.  These segments are the Inner Planes, also known as the Elemental and Quasi-Elemental planes.  Now imagine the last inner sphere is essentially a gray mist with thousands of plates stacked in the mist.  This gray mist is the Ethereal Plane.  When you hear stories of ghosts and other such creatures that reappear or disappear, they are generally ethereal in nature.  The 'plates' are the thousands of stacked Prime Material Planes.  We are on one of those Primes.  The Negaverse as you know it is actually yet another Prime, albeit a much darker one.  Now, these Primes are amazingly similar.  Some people have places in all of them, some in most, some in a few, some in only one.  You might not recognize yourselves, but you are there.  Also, time sometimes flows at different rates.  Some are in sync, while others are faster or slower.  However, any being from one of these Primes can live on any of the other ones," he said.

      "Okay..." muttered Artemis.

      "So what are these 'Nodes'?  And what about this order of yours?" questioned Luna.

      "Nodes are transport zones between the Primes.  You cannot go anywhere but the Primes through Nodes.  You have to utilize other means to reach the other Planes.  Some Nodes are natural.  The Bermuda Triangle Node is one of these.  Others are preplanned and have preset destinations, or the destinations are rotated.  These are controlled by the Order.  The third kind is created by beings meddling in what they don't understand.  These can dump you anywhere.  That is the kind of Node Darkstrike tried using on me earlier.  Because of my powers through the Order, I am immune to that.  However, I cannot extend that to others," he finished.

      "And the Order?  And why did you want us to fight him?  And why the park?" asked Serena.

      "The Order is a small group of three or four people on each plane in contact with ourselves in all of the other Primes.  Our job is to keep the beings from the Primes from meddling with other Primes.  Some Primes have only one member, while some have up to six.  This one has four.  I am the main contact.  The Prime A-73, the Negaverse, is currently the only Prime with none, since Darkstrike has been dissolved from the Order.  As for why you have to fight him, the answer is simple.  He is from the Negaverse, and we can't affect him.  But you Sailor Scouts can.  As for the park, this is a preplanned, rotatable Node.  If he uses his powers here, your destination Prime will be known and we can get you back.  It may take awhile, but you will get back.  Otherwise, we'd have to search all 8,746,886 Primes for you.  That could take even longer.  The reason Darkstrike is doing this now is that by disposing of the guardians of this plane, the time is perfect for him to dissolve the Ethereal layer that separates our two Primes and fuse them, bringing utter chaos to both Primes," explained Stryfe.

      "You did mention a junction.  So what number is this Prime?  And where would the Node send us?" queried Mina.

      "We are Prime A-74.  The letter signifies the time frame, the number the actual plane in that stack.  The Node is currently set to Prime B-21," answered Stryfe.

      "So that equipment over there is your Planar control stuff?" asked Amara.

      "Correct," replied Stryfe.

      "So you want us to fight him-" Serena began.

      "It's your job, isn't it?" Stryfe interrupted mildly.

      Serena was startled, nodded, and continued on, "and if he sends us to another place, you'll ensure we get back?"

      "Me or one of my alternate selves," Stryfe answered.

      "I don't see we have much choice in the matter, meatballhead!" said Raye.  "It is our duty, you know."

      Serena stuck her tongue out at Raye.  "I know exactly what Sailor Scout duties are!"

      "Just making sure!" Raye said sweetly.

      Lita rolled her eyes.

      Just then, one of the computer terminals beeped.  Stryfe got up to answer it.  He pressed part of the screen, and a carbon-copy image of him, dressed very differently, appeared.

      "Preparations are complete, Stryfe," the person in the monitor said.

      "Good.  If this goes wrong, we'll need them," Stryfe answered.  "I've briefed the involved parties and hopefully this won't go any further, but we shall see.  I'm going to be there to try and intercept his planar vortices."

      "Well, be careful.  I wouldn't want to see myself get hurt, even if it's on another plane!" his alternate self grinned.

      "Agreed," chuckled Stryfe.  "Talk to you later!"  The screen went dark.  He turned to face the Scouts.

      "It's time."

Round 4: Sad Departures

      The Scouts shared a glance.  They nodded.  He turned and led them back up the stairway.  He pressed a sequence on the panel by the door, and the Scouts walked out into the misty night.

      He followed after sealing the boulder.

      As they ducked out of the bushes, flames greeted their eyes.  Darkstrike was stalking around, and in his anger set flame to several trees and bushes.

      "Definitely time, guys," said Lita, pulling out her wand.  Their transformations echoed on the night wind.

      The light show rapidly attracted Darkstrike's attention, and he turned to face the now-transformed Sailor Scouts.

      "Aaah... the fun begins.  And how could I not recognize a former associate, a member of the Order... Stryfe!" Darkstrike said smugly.

      "Wow, I'm impressed.  Both your brain cells actually communicate," grinned Stryfe, arms crossed.  "Not the sharpest pencil in the box, hmm?"

      "Arrgh!  You'll pay for that!" snapped Darkstrike.

      "I'm sure," Stryfe said sarcastically, rolling his eyes.

      Darkstrike shot a ball of energy at Stryfe, who rolled nimbly out of its way.

      "MOON TIARA MAGIC!" called Sailor Moon.  The glowing white disc nailed Darkstrike in the side.  He glared at her.

      "Sailor Moon, no declarations?" asked Sailor Mars.

      "I'm not in the mood," Sailor Moon said angrily.

      "And I'm not in the mood to play with you!" snapped Darkstrike.  He opened a vortex towards her.  Just as it was about to consume Sailor Moon, Stryfe reached her and closed it.  Darkstrike gritted his teeth.

      "MARS CELESTIAL FIRE SURROUND!" shouted Sailor Mars.  Burning rings of flame nailed Darkstrike.

      "You little brat!" roared Darkstrike.  He raised his hands, and dark lightning bolts flew towards Sailor Mars.

      "EARTH LOVE SHIELD!" cried Sailor Earth-Love, coming up in front of Sailor Mars.  She strained with the impact against her shield.

      "VENUS LOVE CHAIN ENCIRCLE!" yelled Sailor Venus.  The impact of her attack occurred just as Darkstrike launched another vortex.  As Darkstrike howled in fury, Stryfe jumped forwards to close the vortex.  Darkstrike saw his chance and hit Stryfe hard with a Nega-charged kick to the side of the head.  Stryfe collapsed from the draining effects of Nega-energy.

      Sailor Earth-Love deflected the bolts into a nearby tree and ran to refresh Stryfe.  As she did so, Darkstrike caught her in the vortex Stryfe had been trying to close.  A burst of white light occurred, and Sailor Earth-Love was gone.

      "No!" gasped Sailor Earth-Anger, clutching her head.

      Darkstrike grinned evilly as more vortices opened, encompassing the whole team in one huge flash of light that abruptly disappeared.  The last thing the Scouts heard was Darkstrike's evil laughter.

      In the park, a lone figure lay on the ground.  There was no sign of the Sailor Scouts or Darkstrike.  The flames had died out.  The figure groaned, and one eye opened, glancing about.  Stryfe sat up, putting a hand to his head against the rush of dizziness.  He shook his head and looked around, taking in the scene.  He stood, and leaned against the base of a nearby tree.

      "Great.  Just great."

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    Note:  This particular story is set in a fantasy realm based on Advanced Dungeons And Dragons 2nd Edition, which is owned by TSR and Wizards Of The Coast.  All characters are based on actual role-playing characters from a group I used to DM for!

Sailor Moon Alternity

By Daryll Pung

Part 2: Swords And Sorcery

PG13

Round 1: The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful

       The transfer seemed both to last forever and last but a microsecond.  After the white light faded, the team found themselves lying in a grass field that seemed to stretch away forever.  Off in the distance, dark mountains rose from the plains.  The Scouts all glanced at each other as they sat up.  The only one not accounted for was Sailor Earth-Love.

      "Where could she have gone?" asked Sailor Jupiter.

      "Where are we?" questioned Sailor Mini-Moon in a frightened voice.

      Tuxedo Mask grasped Sailor Mini-Moon and comforted her while the others began talking.

      "She could be anywhere!" said Sailor Mars.

      "How many different planes did Stryfe say there were?" asked Sailor Venus.

      "Quiet, everyone!" snapped Sailor Moon.

      As everyone settled down, Sailor Mercury spoke up.  "She's on this plane, remember?  She was sent here separately from us, but the node was set to bring us all here.  She's just somewhere else on this plane."

      "Mercury's right," said Sailor Neptune.  "We'll just have to locate her.  She can't be too far away."  She looked at Sailor Earth-Anger.

      "She's here, but not too close.  I can barely feel her," murmured Sailor Earth-Anger worriedly.

      A whooshing sound drew their attention behind them.  A figure in dark robes looked thoughtfully at them.

      "Hello, strangers," said a deep voice.

      As Sailor Earth-Love got to her feet, aided by a man in gray robes and red cloak, she glanced at his face.  It was the face from the monitor, and looked exactly like Stryfe!  He held a long, wooden staff with a red crystal in one end, and he was alone with her in a clearing in some woods.

      "Just one?" he asked in exactly the same voice.  "I thought there was a whole group of you?"

      She blinked in surprise.

      "Well, er..." she shook her head.  "I got sent separately from them, I guess...  Who are you?  And why do you sound exactly like Stryfe?"

      "Hmmm...  I thought Stryfe explained everything to you.  I am he... or that lifeform's form in this plane.  We are essentially the same person.  I am known as Derrelli," he said.

      "Might they follow me?" asked Sailor Earth-Love.

      "No.  If they are still fighting and get sent, or if they have all been sent already, they will go to the next node on this plane," answered Derrelli.  "We must find where that is.  Follow me," he said, indicating a tower rising out of the forest.

      "I can barely feel my twin... they're here, but they aren't close," she said.

      He looked at her.  "Can you tell which direction?"

      "No," she sighed, shaking her head.  "Way too faint."

      "Worry not, young Hopper.  We'll get you home," he smiled reassuringly.  "And find your friends."

      "Thanks," she said, a faint grin on her face.  Then the smile disappeared and she looked confused.  "'Hopper'?" she asked.

      "That's what we of the Order call those lost in other Primes," he explained.

      "Oh, okay," she said.  "And what's with your ears?" she asked, gazing at his slightly pointed ears.

      "I'm a half-elf," he answered as the two of them moved off into the woods.

      "So, why are you dressed so strangely?" demanded the one in dark robes.  His voice was harsh with anger.

      "We can't tell you!" snapped Sailor Moon.  This person obviously is not from the Order, or he would know this, she thought, seeing the nods of the other Scouts at her refusal to talk.

      "Then I hope pain is something you enjoy!" snapped the dark figure.

      Sailor Moon recoiled in fear.  The Scouts' eyes widened.

      "I think we'll let you think about it first... maybe you'll reconsider... Mwa ha ha..." the figure laughed evilly.

      The green-skinned, pig-snouted figures that had been standing in the shadows ever since they had entered this tower leapt forward and bound the Sailor Scouts, before prodding them with their short swords, leading them out of the grandly decorated main hall, leading them down some stairs into the dungeons.  They found themselves all shoved into one cell, then chained hand and foot to the damp, slimy walls.  The creatures moved out of the chamber and the door slammed shut with a loud clang.  The lock clicked, and they heard words they didn't understand.  The door glowed briefly, then returned to normal.  A single torch burned outside the door, and that was the sole source of light for the team to see.  The cell was musty and damp, with rotten straw strewn all over the floor.

      "What now?" asked Sailor Venus in a soft, frightened voice.

      There was no answer.

      "Any news?" asked Sailor Earth-Love anxiously as Derrelli walked down the stairs.  The little creature Derrelli had identified as a kobold, his friend Mirk, was sharing some slices of apple and apple juice with her.

      "Nothing good.  I've traced them to the node they appeared in.  It's a good week's march from here by horse.  The bad news is Cyric Deathhands, a necromancer who has a tower near there, probably greeted them.  Your friends are probably in his hands, and those are very bad hands to be in," said Derrelli.

      "Oh, no," gasped Sailor Earth-Love.

      "I 'member him," put in Mirk darkly.  Once again she noticed the little goat-like horns, the scaly tail, both seeming out of place on the dog-like body.   "Very curious about life, unusual creatures he can turn undead, and just plain death.  We barely escaped his grasp."

      "That was when I was just an apprentice," smiled Derrelli.  "I'm much stronger now, and can probably take him.   Unfortunately, he undoubtedly has powerful guardians.  Equally unfortunately, he probably has your friends and is torturing them... or worse."

      "W-worse?" trembled Sailor Earth-Love.

      "So what're we gonna do?" asked Mirk.

      "'We'?" grinned Derrelli.

      "Yup.  Bet your lucky apples I'm helping!" said Mirk hotly.

      "Good.  Your help will be appreciated.  I've sent for some other friends, and we'll meet them on the way there," said Derrelli.  "Be brave, young Hopper.  We'll rescue your friends!"

      Sailor Earth-Love managed a small smile.

Round 2: Meetings and Encounters of the Painful Kind

       The door opened, and Sailor Jupiter was thrown back in the cell, the creatures right behind her to put her back in the chains.  She leaned limply against the wall as the door slammed shut, gathering her breath as the other Scouts watched.

      "Anything different happening?" asked Sailor Pluto.

      "No," Jupiter answered weakly.  She tried to find a comfortable spot in the straw.  All the Scouts, even poor little Sailor Mini-Moon, had been beaten repeatedly.  Their outfits were filthy and becoming tattered.  All of them had bruises and cuts.

      "Thank God," murmured Mercury.  "I don't want it to go any further."

      "He's playing with us," said Sailor Uranus in despair.

      "Like he's got all the time in the world," continued Neptune.

      "In essence, he does," sighed Sailor Saturn.

      Sailor Moon looked around at the other Scouts, all dejected and quiet.

      "Maybe we should give him what he wants," said Tuxedo Mask.

      "NO!" yelled Moon, drawing everyone's attention.  "This is nothing yet!  Think about what would happen if we did.  Do we really want someone else besides Darkstrike messing with our reality?  Do we really want all those poor, innocent people to suffer?  I don't!  I will resist to my last breath!"

      The Scouts all looked at each other.

      "She's right," said Sailor Mars.

      "We'll make it," said Sailor Venus.  "We always do!"

      Sailor Earth-Anger looked up suddenly, a grin breaking over her face.

      "What?" asked Luna and Artemis, noticing.

      "She's coming closer!" smiled Sailor Earth-Anger.  "My twin is coming to save us!"

      Samantha followed quietly behind Derrelli.  Mirk was scouting ahead for trouble.  Derrelli had given her clothes to blend in, so she had returned to her normal form.  Derrelli held up his hand.  They heard a rustle and Mirk reappeared, practically out of breath.  His short sword was bloody.

      "Orcs!  A hunting party," gasped out Mirk.  "I got one of 'em in the back."

      "Hmm..." said Derrelli.  "How many?"

      "About forty-five," panted Mirk.

      "A little too many for just the few of us," frowned Derrelli.

      "Well, they're coming this way," said Mirk, ducking behind a tree.  Mirk melted into the shadows as the first orc spotted Samantha and Derrelli.

      Samantha examined the orcs.  They were green-skinned, with pig-like snouts, and all carrying short swords and shields.  The feral beasts snorted as they moved towards them.

      "Watch it... M'gic User," one said.

      "An' yummy hooman woman," said another.

      Derrelli looked grimly at the orcs.  The sheer numbers would overwhelm him without cover for spellcasting.

      Beside him, Samantha pulled out her wand.

      "Let's rumble, creeps!  EARTH LOVE CRYSTAL POWER!" shouted Samantha.

      The light from her transformation reached through the trees.  The group of travelers on a nearby road, the very road Derrelli, Mirk, and Samantha were trying to reach, noticed.

      "What's that?" asked one.

      "I think we should check it out," said another.

      Meanwhile, back at the scene of the fight, Sailor Earth-Love rolled up and shouted:  "EARTH LOVE DARK!"

      A beam of purple crackling energy lanced out and nailed the lead orc, dropping him to his knees, and then his face as his life force was drained.  The orcs glanced at their dead leader, and then glared at the pair of them.

      "Signif Dreaken Foguren!  35 feet... Fireball!" chanted Derrelli, hands together, pointing at the largest concentration of orcs.  A small dart of fire leapt from his pointing index fingers and shot to the distance stated before detonating into a huge explosion of fire.  Seventeen orc bodies were still lying there, smoking.

      That left twenty-seven.  One charged at Sailor Earth-Love.  Before she could act, a blur hit the orc in the back, and there was a sound of metal against flesh.  Mirk jumped to the ground as the orc body hit the ground.

      Twenty-six.

      Derrelli was worried.  The orcs had now closed the distance so that he could no longer use magic without injuring his two companions.  The orcs, sensing victory as the three of them backed away slowly, were extremely surprised when a dagger suddenly impacted right between the eyes of one of their number.  His body crumpled as a tree flew into four more orcs, smashing them into a pulp against another tree.

      The orcs regrouped as a human and a not-so-dark elf dropped out of the trees behind them.  Swords flashed, and two orcs were caught by the half-dark elf's sword.  Nunchukas whirled, and another orc dropped, his skull smashed.

      Eighteen.  The remaining orcs turned to the only escape route left to them, only to see a dwarf, two humans, and a half-giant blocking their path.  The human female threw her arm forward, and another orc fell to the dagger she threw as it impacted in his right eye.  The other human spoke.

      "Praise to Zoysalyn!  May her rage consume those that would defy her wishes, and bring them back under my command!" he shouted as he raised his hands.  Four of the dead orcs regained their feet and began attacking the still-living orcs, felling six before they were cut down again.

      The dwarf roared and hurled both of the twin battleaxes that were etched with magical runes.  Two orcs' heads tumbled to the ground, their bodies falling afterwards as the dwarf casually caught the axes.

      The half giant gripped a tree stump and pulled it out of the ground, holding it in one hand as he hefted a huge sledgehammer-like maul in the other.  He hurled the stump with all his might, smashing two orcs, while he swung the maul, smashing another two orc skulls.

      Five left.  They turned towards Derrelli, Sailor Earth-Love, and Mirk.

      Sailor Earth-Love glanced at Derrelli to see if he was concerned, and then did a double take at the sight of a similarly attired human talking to him.  Derrelli nodded, then gave a signal.

      The half-dark elf held up a hand.

      The human next to the half giant held up his pendant.

      The magic-user human on Derrelli's right nodded.

      Derrelli shouted, "Now!"

      "Woslak Draneth...Magic Missile!" shouted the half-dark elf, hand towards the orcs.

      "Zoysalyn's anger ignite upon her enemies!" prayed the human near the half-giant.

      "Mirenth Glockheas Smirkton... Death Spell!" cast the mage next to Derrelli.

      "Gosklah Ulasti Fiskhath... Meteor Strike!" chanted Derrelli.

      Five small, glowing spheres nailed the remaining five orcs as a column of fire poured down upon them, as darkness grasped their souls, as a huge fiery rock impacted upon them.  When the smoke cleared, five nuclear shadows were all that remained of the orcs.

      Victory.

Round 3:  Rescues, Kidnappings, and Dragons

       "The half-dark elf is Siko Mazri, The human in the gi is known as Wu Sheng, the human war priest is Magnus Yenkn.  The female is Chrystyn Shadowstorm, and standing next to her is Consis Barghest, fellow magic-user.  The dwarf is Biggh-Daghe Hamicyd, and our half-giant friend is Atuk," introduced Derrelli as they all sat around a blazing campfire several miles from the incident with the orcs.

      "And who is this?" asked Siko.

      "More importantly, what was so important?  Why did you need all of our help?" Consis questioned softly.

      "She is a Hopper," said Derrelli.  "Her name is Samantha."

      "Whoa... slow down... a Hopper?" asked Siko.

      "You all have heard about other planes, right?" asked Derrelli.

      "Yes," said Consis.  "So she is a plane hopper?"

      "Yes, and she is not alone.  She and her companions were not intentionally trying to travel the planes.  They were forced here, and I'm helping to return them home," explained Derrelli.

      "So where are her companions?" asked Consis.

      "In the hands of Cyric Deathhands," replied Derrelli neutrally.

      "Aaaaahhh," said Wu Sheng.  "Now I understand why you wanted us.  You and Consis could probably take him, but he is legendary for having numerous monsters under his control.  You want our help fighting them?"

      Derrelli nodded.

      Atuk looked confused.

      "Relax, Atuk.  Sparkles want help to have fun with lots of bads.  Playtime!" placated Consis.

      Samantha blinked in surprise.  Mirk tapped her shoulder.

      "Atuk isn't the smartest guy in the world," he whispered, "but he has a lot of spirit and is a good friend."

      Samantha nodded.

      "So, what's the plan?" queried Chrystyn in her silky voice.

      "Here's what I had in mind," grinned Derrelli.  They all leaned closer to hear.

      "YOU WILL TELL ME!" he roared, slapping Sailor Moon across the face.  She felt wetness on her face and knew she was bleeding again from the cut on her cheek.

      Cyric Deathhands glared at her. 

      "Very well.  If you will not tell me, I do believe it is time to move to the next stage.  Your little friend here will be my first victim," he said, indicating a sobbing Sailor Mini-Moon.  He clapped his hands, and a section of wall parted to reveal a torture chamber.  Sailor Moon's eyes went wide.

      "Leave her alone!  Do it to me instead!" she said in anguish as he grabbed Sailor Mini-Moon. 

      "Aww, you really care about this little brat, don't you?  It's a shame-" he began, then broke off as the wall behind the torture chamber collapsed, a huge form stepping through.

      "Atuk want fun!  Where bads at?" bellowed Atuk as Magnus, Chrystyn and Consis followed him through the hole.

      "Guards!" shouted Cyric.

      A loud explosion resounded down the stairs.  Someone's footsteps were heard coming down.  Sailor Earth-Love stepped into the room, took in the scene, and focused her attention on Cyric.  Derrelli, Wu Sheng, Biggh-Daghe, Mirk, and Siko, all of their weapons dripping with orc blood, soon backed her up.

      "You're surrounded, Cyric," said Derrelli.

      "Aaah, the upstart fire mage and his friends," sneered Cyric.

      "Where are the rest of my friends?" demanded Sailor Earth-Love as Mirk slipped away.

      "Hmm… I forgot.  Now where did I put them?" Cyric said, feigning forgetfulness.  "Oh, I remember."  He moved towards a lever on the wall.  "Right here!" and he reached for it.

      "Don't-" cried Derrelli as Cyric yanked it.  The wall slid open, revealing a huge clay form that stepped forward.

      "A golem!" said Consis.

      Cyric was laughing maniacally, still holding Sailor Mini-Moon.

      "Atuk got playtoy!" yelled Atuk.  In one swift movement, he grabbed the golem and smashed it into the stone floor, burying it completely upside-down in the stone until only its feet were showing.

      Cyric stopped laughing as Wu Sheng nonchalantly moved a small table over where the golem's feet were and sat down on it, putting his feet on the table.  Sailor Earth-Love's mouth hung open in surprise at the half-giant's strength.

      "You may have defeated my guardian, but I'm taking this brat with me to the inferno!  Mwa ha ha ha!"  With that, Cyric disappeared with Sailor Mini-Moon as Mirk led the rest of the team into the chamber.

      "NO!" screamed Sailor Moon.

      "Well, at least we can destroy this place!" said Derrelli.

      "What!?" exclaimed Sailor Venus.  "What about Sailor Mini-Moon?"

      "That was a challenge to Consis and I.  Cyric knows all of our encounters.  He knows how we once outsmarted Sorkanth the Red, a red dragon.  I know exactly where your little Hopper friend is," stated Derrelli.

      "Where?" asked Sailor Moon.

      "Sorkanth translated from chromatic draconic into common is Inferno," said Consis.  "They're at Inferno's Lair, and Sorkanth'll be happy for revenge."

      The Sailor Scouts exchanged nervous, weak looks.

Round 4: The Flames of Retribution

       The group stood on a nearby ridge, the highlight of the burning tower lighting the sky for miles.  The Sailor Scouts were slumped on the ground in exhaustion, and the rest were in a solemn mood, thinking of the dragon. 

      "Oooh," groaned Sailor Moon, rubbing her cheek.  "I hurt all over and I'm tired."

      Derrelli motioned to Magnus, but Sailor Earth-Love held up her hand.

      "I got this," she said.  "EARTH LOVE REFRESH!"

      A white mist flowed over the entire group, healing injuries, refreshing energy, and freshening the Scouts.  They looked a lot better after the mist cleared. 

      "As always, we are so glad to have you," Sailor Moon smiled to Sailor Earth-Love.

      "I do my best," she smiled back, moving to her twin and sitting next to her.

      Sailor Moon surveyed the group, now refreshed, as Derrelli took a bundle from Atuk.

      "What's that?" asked Sailor Uranus.

      "Clothes for you to blend in.  I suggest you wait at my tower until we recover your little Hopper.  Dragons have a tendency to be painful and smart," Derrelli said.

      "No!" Sailor Moon rounded on him.  "We will not stand by while Sailor Mini-Moon is in trouble!  We're coming with you!"

      The rest of the Sailor Scouts exchanged determined looks.  Derrelli saw this and glanced at Consis, who shrugged.

      "Very well.  We best get started.  The conjunction is approaching for the next planar transfer, and we'll be cutting it close going to the dragon's lair.  Hurry and change, and we'll get started," directed Derrelli.  He turned to the adventurers as the Scouts willed themselves to normal and put on the clothes he supplied.

      "Do we have an idea how we want to do this?" he asked.

      "Hey, how does this go on?" asked Lita, indicating her tunic.  Chrystyn smiled and moved to help.

      "I suggest we split to three groups," said Siko thoughtfully.  "Your hopper friends should concentrate on recovering their friend and distracting the two main adversaries.  I'll lay gold that Cyric and Sorkanth will have other friends for us."

      "Sounds good," said Consis.  "I suggest me, Chrystyn, Mirk, and Wu Sheng concentrate on Cyric Deathhands.  I'll send him to the Abyss, that wanna-be necromancer," finished Consis with hatred in his voice.

      "Agreed.  The rest of us will concentrate our attention on the dragon.  I'm not sure I'll be much help, since most of my spells are fire-based and reds are immune to fire," said Derrelli.

      "In this case, Derrelli, I think your fire protection and immunity spells will be more important," smiled Siko.

      The Scouts had all finished, and were now watching and listening.

      "Okay.  We're ready.  Let's go."

      They moved off into the forest.

       The mountain pass was foreboding and dark.  The group looked up upon the peak known as Inferno's Lair, at the gaping cavern entrance.

      "Is that it?" asked Serena quietly.

      Derrelli nodded solemnly.

      "One final word.  We are going against some very dangerous enemies.  Both are potent magic-users, and the dragon is dangerous physically; watch for its breath weapon!  If you are caught in it, you will be dead!  We must use caution all the way in.  There will undoubtedly be traps, and reds usually have a lot of monsters for guardians.  If someone spots something, raise your fist.  Try not to make noise until it doesn't matter.  Mirk and Chrystyn will scout ahead and watch for traps.  All the fighters will go behind them, followed by Consis, Magnus, and myself.  The Hoppers will watch the rear.  Are we ready?" finished Derrelli.

      Everyone glanced at the determined expressions on everyone else's face, and they all nodded.

      "Good.  Let's do this," said Siko, drawing his magical long sword.

      "Oh yeah," said Wu Sheng drew his nunchukas.  Biggh-Daghe drew his axes, and Atuk his maul.  Magnus readied his magical mace.  Consis glanced at Derrelli, and the black crystal on his bone staff glowed with dark energy.  Derrelli's staff glowed fiercely red.  Chrystyn drew her daggers, Mirk his short sword.

      As one the Scouts drew their wands and transformed.

      "Okay," said Consis.  "Here we go."

      They moved towards the yawning entrance.  Occasionally, steam issued from it.  They paused at the entrance.  Mirk held up his hand to halt the group.

      "Give us a thirty count," he whispered.  He and Chrystyn moved in.

      Consis counted off, and then the fighters moved forwards.  The spell casters followed, and the Scouts exchanged one more look before stepping into the darkness.  The glows from the staves of Derrelli and Consis dimly lit the way.  The air smelled strongly of sulfur, and the walls dripped with hot water.  Steam hissed almost constantly.  The dread deep in their bellies began to rise, threatening to overwhelm them.  As one, the Sailor Scouts swallowed nervously and continued on.  Suddenly, Siko raised a fist, and they all halted.  Ahead, there was a light thunk as a trap was disarmed, and then Siko waved them on.  They entered a chamber that glowed brightly of its own light, which came from the immense quantity of lava.  They stood on the edge of a tall cliff, looking down at the lake of lava.  A small rock bridge was the only way across, and had to be walked single file.

      Mirk had Chrystyn halt, and he walked alone onto the bridge, keeping a sharp eye for flying enemies and traps.  He got about halfway across, and paused.  He waved, and the group moved in a line until they reached him.  He saw the puzzled looks and pointed ahead.  They could see the bridge meld into another cave entrance.  Around the cave were several ledges, each with a winged statue on it.

      "Gargoyles," whispered Consis.  Mirk nodded.

      "I think so," murmured Mirk.  "Of course, being a dragon's lair...."

      "It could be something else," finished Chrystyn.  "Let's find out."  Her right hand became a blur as a dagger clattered off the forehead of one of the statue-shapes.  All but the two top ones suddenly came to life, rearing and spreading their wings.  The gargoyles leapt into the air and swooped as a group towards the party.

      "Signif Dreaken Foguren!  50 feet! Fireball!" cast Derrelli, pointing at a point where the gargoyles would be in seconds.  The small fiery streak shot out, whizzing just past the gargoyles to detonate in a fiery explosion.  Three of the gargoyles' wings shattered and they plummeted straight into the lava.  The fourth was slammed into the bridge.  Siko jumped and struck, slicing off the gargoyle's head, kicking the body over into the lava.

      "Why aren't those two coming at us?" asked Sailor Jupiter.

      "I have an idea why," said Mirk.  "Don't follow me."  He suddenly began running towards the cave entrance.  Suddenly, the jaws dropped on the two remaining, and small bursts of flame shot out.  Mirk nimbly rolled and dodged the barrage of fire, panting as he reached relative safety in the cave entrance.  The statues remained activated.

      "Hmmph.  Thyuihj Kerist Molsuk Jwinak!  Disintegrate!" cast Consis.  A small bluish beam shot from his hand and nailed the ledge beneath the statues.  The ledge vanished and the statues plummeted into the lava.  Mirk quickly surveyed the area immediately around him and waved the party forward.

      When they were all safely in the entrance of the second cavern, Mirk and

Chrystyn once again moved forward to continue scouting.  Once again, everyone followed.  They moved slowly forward until Chrystyn raised her fist.  Standing in the middle of the passage was a group of zombies.

      "Why aren't they coming forward?" murmured Wu Sheng, noticing that Mirk was carefully examining the ground.

      "What are they?" asked Sailor Venus.

      "Undead humans," answered Consis.  "Mostly," he added.

      Sailor Mars made a disgusted face.

      Mirk slowly prodded something with his short sword, and something went click.  Suddenly, the ground shifted, and a net whipped upwards to impact on the spikes that popped out of the ceiling.

      "Aaah," said Magnus quietly.  He stepped forward to deal with the zombies, but Mirk still held up his fist.  Suddenly spears shot out of the walls and floor.

      "Now it's done," said Mirk.  As if agreeing, the zombies began moving forward.  Magnus raised his glowing holy symbol.

      "By the power of Zoysalyn, I command you!  Minions of Death, answer my call to arms!" he chanted.  The zombies halted.

      "Okay.  Might as well use their own monsters against them," said Biggh-Daghe. 

Magnus nodded, and the party followed the zombies as Magnus commanded them forward.  They rounded a turn, and suddenly twenty orcs jumped off a ledge above.  Magnus quickly commanded the zombies to attack to orcs, and the party stepped back as the two groups of monsters began fighting.  The orcs whooped and hollered as they attacked the zombies.  Derrelli noticed a funny rumbling.  The tunnel began to light up, as if....

      "Quick! Get close to me!" he said suddenly.  As the party did so, he cast.  "Weityunh Saghyet Ofwut Gityuq!  Elemental Fire Shield!"

      The dome of fire that rose above them did so just in time.  The tunnel was suddenly blasted with dragonfire.  The orcs and zombies were disintegrated instantly, and sweat rolled off Derrelli's face as he concentrated to hold his shield up.  After what seemed like an eternity, the dragonfire passed and he let the shield drop.  He exhaled shakily, gasping to regain his composure.  The walls and floor outside of the diameter of where the shield had been were glowing with heat.

      "My god," whispered Sailor Venus.  The Sailor Scouts' eyes were wide.  Derrelli recovered, and the floor cooled enough to move again.  

      "Was that... the dragon's breath?" asked Sailor Earth-Anger quietly.  Derrelli nodded.

      "Wow," said Sailor Mars.

      "Come out, vermin!  Sorkanth wants to play!" a loud voice echoed through the passage.

      "Uh oh," said Siko.

      "Just remember, reds are convinced of their own superiority.  That overconfidence could be useful.  Split into our groups!  Let's move slowly along the walls.  Use anything you can for cover.  Go now!" whispered Derrelli.  Consis, Mirk, Chrystyn and Wu Sheng moved across the passage to the opposite wall.  Derrelli turned to the Scouts.

      "Count to ten before following us.  Stay on this side, and stay under cover until we locate your friend," he said.  The team nodded.

      Everyone moved forward.  The chamber opened in front of them.  It was huge, with stalactites and stalagmites, boulders and small ledges everywhere.  The most striking thing was the giant, glistening pile of treasure that Sorkanth the Red, a gargantuan, two hundred foot long dragon, lay upon.  The black shape of Cyric Deathhands accented his fiery red hide.  Poor little Sailor Mini-Moon was roped to a boulder near them.  Fighting the dragonfear, Consis' group crept towards Cyric, Derrelli's group moved towards the dragon, and the Scouts moved towards Sailor Mini-Moon.

      "Ah, good.  The rats show their faces," rumbled Sorkanth.

      "Well, well.   They have arrived to meet their doom," cackled Cyric.

      "Hah!" called Wu Sheng.

      "Remember us, gullible lizard?" taunted Derrelli.

      "WHAT!?" roared Sorkanth.  "You'll pay for that!"  Sorkanth raised his huge, scaly hand and pointed it at Derrelli.

      Wu Sheng charged, nunchukas whirling.  Cyric suddenly realized how precarious his position was and jumped aside.  Mirk leapt at him, but Cyric nailed Mirk with a Magic Missile spell, knocking him on his back.  Chrystyn whipped a dagger, which ripped his robe and drew blood on his arm.  Hissing, he retaliated with Chill Touch spell on Chrystyn, draining her energy.  Wu Sheng moved again, distracting Cyric as Consis picked up one of the dragon's gems.

      "So you want to use necromancy, huh?" he whispered as he cast. "Tyeiuh Bolseq Fyutir Zixret!  Magic Jar!"

      Cyric grinned as he got Wu Sheng with a Vampiric Touch.  As Wu Sheng recovered, Cyric raised his hands to finish him, but felt a funny tickle in the back of his mind.

      NO! he cried futilely in his mind as his spirit was banished to the gem.  Consis, now in command of Cyric's body, had Cyric's body put his arms down.  There was no resistance as Mirk's short sword sliced into Cyric's body.  As Mirk pulled the sword out, Cyric's soul was destroyed as Consis' lifeforce returned to the gem.  Cyric's body toppled in death.  Consis canceled the spell, and his lifeforce returned to his body.  Crouching to catch his breath, Consis' only thought was:  And that's what you get for your evil deeds.

      In the meantime, Sorkanth's Magic Missiles nailed Derrelli.  The distraction was enough to allow the others to get close to the dragon.

      "Big lizard bads will be fun!" roared Atuk as he swung his maul.  Magnus leapt forwards and cast a Cause Critical Wounds spell upon the dragon with his mace.  It passed the dragon's magic resistance and he roared in pain.  Siko swung hard, slicing the dragon's claw.  Biggh-Daghe hurled his axes.  One bounced off the dragon's armored hide, and the other nailed him squarely in one eye.  Sorkanth's head jerked back as he roared in fury and pain.  Blood ran down his neck from his now useless eye.

      Tuxedo Mask leapt forward and whipped several roses.  The ropes that bound Sailor Mini-Moon were sliced cleanly through, allowing her to run to Tuxedo Mask as the Sailor Scouts focused their attentions on the enraged dragon.

      Sorkanth reared back, reaching to the pit of fiery hatred that raged in his belly.  He inhaled.

      "Take cover!" shouted Derrelli.  He stood up.  "Weityunh Saghyet Ofwut Gityuq!  Elemental Fire Shield!"

      Sorkanth let it go, blasting his anger at the annoying fire mage and his friends.  He opened his one good eye to see the fire mage standing, resisting the dragonfire.  That infuriated Sorkanth further.  He reached up with his claw, and started to bring it crashing down.

      "MERCURY SHINE AQUA ILLUSION!"

      "VENUS LOVE CHAIN ENCIRCLE!"

      "JUPITER THUNDER DRAGON!"

      "EARTH ANGER SWARM!"

      The claw struck Derrelli's Fire Shield as the Scout's attacks knocked Sorkanth flat on his back, making him temporarily vulnerable.  Biggh-Daghe moved to Atuk, whispering as the rest of the team moved closer.  Sorkanth got back up, thrashing about angrily.  He reared up.

      "MOON SPIRAL HEART ATTACK!" called Sailor Moon, the energy of the scepter blinding and hurting Sorkanth.

      "Now!" said Biggh-Daghe.  Atuk hurled him towards the dragon's head.  He reached and grabbed, yanking his axe out of Sorkanth's eye, and bringing both axes down upon the dragon's forehead, crunching into the dragon's skull.  Sorkanth roared in pain and anger, and focused on the axes.  Biggh-Daghe suddenly let go of his axes and was flung down on the ground, hands burnt from the heat focused through his axes.

      "Wha-?" he gasped in pain.  Derrelli helped him up.

      "Heat Metal, probably.  Adult reds have that ability," explained Derrelli.

      Sorkanth was in severe pain.  He concentrated; and a swirl of white energy surrounded him as he healed himself.

      "My god," gasped Sailor Earth-Love.  "How are we going to beat him?"

      Derrelli surveyed the ceiling, noticing a huge stalactite on the ceiling, right above Sorkanth's head.  It had cracks in it, presumably from the dragonfire blasting it.  As the group continued trying to beat on the dragon, which was now in a rage, Derrelli pointed his finger at the stalactite.  He cast his last Fireball spell.  The loud explosion distracted the fighting, causing Sorkanth to look up just as the stalactite penetrated his forehead, straight through the weak spot caused by Biggh-Daghe's axes.  The dragon collapsed. 

Atuk stepped forward and swung his maul repeatedly, smashing the dragon's skull, making sure he was dead.

      It was over.

      "Wow," trailed off Luna and Artemis.

      "Well, I must say, it was definitely an interesting visit," said Sailor Moon.  They were all back in the basement of Derrelli's tower.  The Planar control equipment was humming as Derrelli configured the device to set their next destination.

      "I don't know if interesting is the word I'd use," smiled Sailor Pluto.

      "So where are we going now?" asked Sailor Mercury.

      "Your destination plane is C-23.  I'm working right now to generate a temporary Node to send you to the preset place there," said Derrelli.  "It's just about time."

      "So is the time frame in the C stack even slower then this one?" asked Sailor Neptune.

      "No.  It's actually a lot faster than the A stack.  As a matter of fact, C stack are the fastest time frames," muttered Derrelli as he concentrated on his work.  "All of our planar control technology was developed in C stack."

      "Oh," responded Sailor Neptune.

      "Well, here we go.  Good luck, young Hoppers.  We of the Order are depending on you.  Take care," said Derrelli.

      The planar control equipment included an O-shaped frame.  It suddenly began rotating at super-high speeds.  A white flash of energy consumed it, and the node was activated.

      "Go now!  Good Luck!" called Derrelli.

      The Sailor Scouts exchanged looks, then jumped in.

      Everything became white.

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    Note:  Star Trek in all its glorious incarnations is the property of Gene Roddenberry (Great Bird Of The Galaxy, bless his vision & thanks for letting us all share in the fun), and Paramount Studios.

Sailor Moon Alternity

By Daryll Pung

Part 3: A Brave New World

PG13

Round 1: A Spaced Out Situation 

      As the white faded from around them, the Sailor Scouts found themselves sitting in a futuristic room.  A set of double doors, a large, blank screen and several computer terminals that looked a lot like the ones used by the Order decorated the room.  The lights were gradually increasing, finally stopping.  The Scouts looked around.

      "We seem to all be in one piece," said Sailor Saturn.

      "We also seem to be at our destination," said Sailor Neptune.

      "Hmmmm..." murmured Sailor Moon.  "I think we should transform to our normal selves."

      The Scouts nodded, and everyone returned to normal.

      "It seems we're alone," said Mina.

      "Hello?" asked Amy tentatively.

      There was an electronic beep. Suddenly, a disembodied female voice spoke.

      "Working," it said.

      The group exchanged glances.

      "Who are you?" asked Amy.

      "Insufficient data.  Please rephrase your question," the voice said.

      Amy blinked in surprise.  "Uh, where are we?" she asked.

      "This is Outpost Derivax R, connected with Starfleet Project Reunion.  Location is in orbit of Derivax 3, third planet of six in the Derivax system.  Fifteen unknown life forms detected.  This outpost is engaging automated protocols.  Please remain where you are," the voice responded.

      "Anybody understand that?" asked Serena, looking at Amy and Michelle.

      "An outpost..." puzzled Michelle.

      "In orbit?" gasped Amy.  "Ummm, can you show us?"

      The screen blinked on, showing the planet they were in orbit of.  That's when the full import hit them.

      "We're in SPACE!?" gasped the team.

      The MiG dropped in front of him, desperately trying to evade.  It jinked up, down, then broke right.  He grinned as his missile seeking radar beeped, almost acquiring his target.  He threw his fighter into a sharp turn, dropping low and rising with a half twist.  Coming straight up from beneath, his F-15E Strike Eagle fighter shot right by the MiG, scaring it into a tight left turn and dive, which is just what he wanted.  He dropped, right behind the MiG.  Just as the beeping became a constant tone, he heard another sound.

      "Red Alert!  All hands to Battle Stations!  Captain to the bridge!"

      "Computer, stop program," he said quickly.  Both fighters froze in midair.  He crouched in his.

      "Save and end program," he continued.  His surroundings turned into a yellow grid with black tiles, and a single exit.  His pilot's uniform became another uniform altogether.  The shoulders were gray, and everything else was black.  He wore a red shirt under that, with the single gold pip that denoted his rank on the neck of the shirt.  Lieutenant Dreyius Pazrek ran out of the holodeck to the turbolift at the end of the corridor.  The doors hissed open as he got there.  He entered it.  When the doors hissed shut, he spoke.

      "Bridge."  And the turbolift began moving.

      The doors hissed open as Michelle and Amy returned from their exploration. 

Serena looked over at them.  Luna, Artemis, and Melanie were stooped over one of the consoles, trying to figure it out.  The others were gazing at the view.

      "Well, this is a real small outpost.  Either that, or we aren't allowed to go everywhere.  The only other room we saw is at the end of the hall, and it is huge.  There is a big door in it.  The computer says it's a shuttlebay," said Michelle.

      "I'm beginning to get the hang of all this technology," said Amy.  She moved over a console.  "There was another console in the hallway, and another in the shuttlebay.  They all have some similarities."  She pushed at her panel a little bit, and some words appeared.  "Hmm.  I seem to have accessed a communications system."

      "An automated general hail has been sent in all directions.  No current need for communications is required at this time," said the computer.

      "I see," said Serena.  "Anything else you can identify?"

      "Umm... hold on," muttered Amy.  She pressed the panel some more. "Oh, wow.  I found a schematic of this place."

      "Neat," said Michelle.

      The doors hissed open.  Lt. Pazrek stepped out and moved to his station - Conn.  As he sat down, the other turbolift hissed open and Captain Jean-Luc Picard stepped through.  He strode to his chair, where Commander William T. Riker was getting up.  He sat down.

      "Report," Picard said.

      Lieutenant Commander Data swiveled around in his chair at the Ops console. 

"We have received an automated hail from a small outpost in the Derivax system."

      Pazrek turned his head to look at Data.

      "It has an inbuilt protocol to activate red alert on all Federation vessels receiving it," continued Data.

      "Interesting," said Riker.  "Any idea what an outpost is doing in the Derivax system?"

      “No, sir.  Derivax has no major resources, and is currently contested territory between the Breen and the Federation.  There is apparently no reason to even have an outpost there," stated Data.

      "Well, let's hear this hail," ordered Picard.

      Data pushed his console, and the hail played from the viewscreen.

      "This is the automated outpost Derivax R, in connection with Starfleet Project Reunion.  This is a highly classified project.  This station has received travelers in relation with this project, and it is imperative that any Federation vessels in range respond immediately.  Starfleet Command has been informed as part of these protocols.  Clearance for this project must be applied for through Starfleet Command.  This is an omnidirectional, repeating signal.  This is the automated outpost-" it bleeped off as Data cut the message.  Everyone on the bridge recognized Pazrek's voice as the one dictating the hail.  Pazrek could feel the eyes staring at him.

      "Interesting," commented Data.

      "Mr. Pazrek, might you have an explanation as to why your voice is dictating this hail?  I've never even heard of a 'Project Reunion'," said Picard.

      ""I can't explain it here, sir.  No one else here is cleared for this project.  If you talk to Starfleet Command, I might be able to brief you in.  In the meantime, we should really head for that outpost, sir," replied Pazrek.

      "Mr. Data, any other ships in range?" asked Riker.

      "Yes, sir.  We just received word from three other ships that are on their way to intercept.  We also just received a warning from one of our watch-posts along that border.  Apparently, the Breen also caught that signal and are sending ships to check it out," reported Data.

      Picard gave Pazrek a curious look.  "What ships, Data?"

      "The Defiant, the Lakota, and the RNS Night Eagle are all on intercept course," said Data.

      "Very well.  Lay in a course to Derivax, maximum warp," ordered Picard.  Pazrek turned and quickly did so.

      "Ready, sir!" he said when he finished.

      "Engage!"

      The ambassador to a thousand worlds, the sleek, swept shape of the

Federation's flagship came about.  A casual observer would notice the steel-gray color of her hull, the glowing warp drive engines.  As she flies by, the letters "NCC-1701-E" would be noticed followed by her name.  Then, the relativity effects take over, stretching the ship as she began her faster than light travel.

      The USS Enterprise leapt into warp.

      The team had grown tired of exploring.  They were all lying around on the floor of the chamber, chatting, except for Amy, who was engrossed with the technology.  Truth be told, she had gotten good at using it, and none of the group really minded.

      Amy had gotten in to the sensing systems, and was catching on quick.

      "Wow, I've never heard of some of this stuff before.  Tachyons, quarks, and quantum molecular imaging; I think this is for scientific studies," she said.

      Serena looked at her.  "So?  Is there anything we can use to get us on our way?"

      "Umm, no... apparently this was a receiving point from a rotatable node. 

Hmm... what's this?  'Long Range Sensors'?" murmured Amy.  She pressed the panel.

      "Commencing long range scans," said the computer.

      "Cool," said Samantha.  "What does that do?"

      "Let's see.  It scans the surrounding space for a distance of... wow.  The way it's configured right now, it scans a six light-year radius!  That's a lot of space to scan.  It looks for... uh..." she pressed her panel.  "Oh, here it is.  It looks for ships, energy signatures, unusual energy events, life forms, stuff like that."  Amy grinned as she looked up.  "This is pretty interesting stuff!  It's also extremely advanced."

      "So, what did it find?" asked Michelle.

      "Well, it seems to have found-" she began, to be cut off by a loud alarm and flashing red lights.

      "This is an automated Red Alert.  Enemy vessels approaching; engaging automated defense protocols," said the computer.

      "Oh, no," said Amy.

Round 2: Heating Up the Cold of Space

       "Amy, what's going on?" asked Luna worriedly.

      "Umm, apparently the people who built this place have an enemy called the

Breen.  Twelve of their ships are approaching us, and this place is responding," Amy replied.  "Okay.  There is something here... 'Tactical'?"  She pressed the panel.  "Whew.  There is now a shield of some type surrounding us, and this outpost is armed with something called 'Phasers'.  I guess it's some sort of beam weapon, because it has a charge meter."  She pressed another section.  "We also seem to have help on the way.  Several ships... 'Federation'?  Federation of what?"

      "Huh?" said Raye.

      "The United Federation of Planets, also known as the Federation Alliance.  It seems to be a collection of all sorts of peoples living together in peace," said Amy.  She looked up.  "We may not see any humans.  It may be a collection of aliens."

      "No Earth or Moon?" asked Mina.

      "Well, let's see... okay, we will see humans," said Amy.

      "Why?" asked Lita.

      "Because Earth is listed here as the Terran system, sector 0-0-1.  Humans are the co-founders of this Federation," reported Amy.

      "Good," said Amara.

      "Uhh... computer, can you show us the enemy ships?" asked Amy.

      The screen blinked on right as the Breen ships left warp and approached the system.  The ships drew closer, reminding the team of a sleek bat-shape.  They stared as the ships came within the range of the outpost.

      "Now engaging automated firing and targeting procedures," the computer said.  On the screen, red beams lanced out, impacting on the lead ship's shields.  The Breen ships spaced themselves out.  As one, they fired.  Green energy flashed.  The girls shrieked as the outpost rocked from the impact.

      "Shields at 55%," said the computer.  More phaser beams hit the lead ship.

      "Are we going to die here?" asked a scared Melanie.

      Lieutenant Nog spun around.  "The outpost is taking heavy fire from the Breen," he reported.  Colonel Kira Nerys nodded. 

      "Get us there fast!" she said.

      "Yes, ma'am," said the second best pilot in Starfleet.

       "Sir, we intercepted a communication from the Defiant.  She reports twelve

Breen ships firing on the outpost, with the outpost taking heavy damage," said Data.

      Pazrek looked up in worry.

      "We'll be there in a few minutes," he reported.  The best pilot in Starfleet looked back down at his console and concentrated on flying the Enterprise. 

      The station rocked yet again.  A shower of sparks burst from a nearby console, scaring Amy as she fell down near the other scouts.

      "Shields down," reported the computer.

      The team looked at the screen.

      The lead Breen ship fired a glowing green torpedo.  It streaked towards the station, impacting on the lower part of it.

      The lights flickered as the outpost shook from the impact.

      "We're doomed," said Lita as the lead Breen ship fired again.  The torpedo flashed towards them.  Suddenly, a small gray shape ducked in front of them.  Shields flared as the little ship absorbed the torpedo.  It turned to face the Breen, and it fired.  Pulses of phaser energy impacted on the lead ship's shields, and four blue torpedoes were launched from the little ship.  Two of the torpedoes hit the shields, with the shields failing after the second one.  The remaining two nailed one of the engines as the Breen ship tried to turn away.  The Breen ship exploded into a tremendous burst of energy.

      "Wow," said Raye.

      "What ship is that?" asked Amy.  She was surprised when the computer replied.

      "That is the USS Defiant, a Defiant-class starship.  Sensors show the USS Lakota, a modified Excelsior-class starship, is also in range."

      Just then, a slightly larger ship, with a saucer, lower section and two engines on pylons, soared into view, firing its phasers and blue torpedoes.  The two vessels were quickly engaged into a fierce firefight with the remaining Breen vessels.  The coordination between the two ships was incredible.  Within minutes, the two ships had destroyed six of the remaining Breen ships.  But the five Breen ships got smart and concentrated their firepower on one ship.  The Lakota took a beating.  Her shields fell, and then her engines were knocked out.  The fire switched to the Defiant.  The combined might of the weapons knocked the Defiant's shields out, too.  The Breen turned back to the station.

      "We're next, aren't we?" asked a worried Artemis.

      The team was surprised to see space waver in front of them.  The wavering turned into a huge, green-colored ship.  Its shields went up, and it fired on the Breen, drawing their attention away from the outpost and the two crippled ships.

      "What is that?" gasped Hotaru.

      "Sensors indicate that is the Romulan ship RNS Night Eagle, a D'Deridex-class warbird," answered the computer.

      The Night Eagle concentrated its quite formidable firepower on the nearest Breen ships.  Green disrupter blasts and green torpedoes ripped into the closest Breen vessel, obliterating it in an awesome explosion.  As the number of Breen ships dropped to two, the team noticed the Lakota moving again; right towards the station, as a matter of fact.  The screen bleeped.

      "Receiving incoming hail," said the computer.  "Preparing automated response."

      "Wait," said Amy.  She moved over to the console and pressed some panels.  The screen blinked on, showing a damaged bridge and slightly messed up crew.  A dark-haired female spoke.

      "I'm Captain Erica Benteen, of the USS Lakota.  There is no time, we've gotta get you outta there.  Stand by for transport.  We must act quickly to get us away from here.  We show ten more Breen ships headed this way," she said.

      "Uh, what do you mean transport?" asked Serena.

      Benteen raised an eyebrow.  "Just stand up."

      Serena nodded.  The team stood, Serena picking up Luna and Mina picking up Artemis.  A tingly feeling overcame them.

      "Whaa..." trailed off Mina as they dissolved into columns of light.

      "...aaat!?" she gasped as they reappeared.  A crewmember stood behind the only console in the room.  He tapped a badge on his uniform.

      "They're safe, sir," he said.  The ship rocked as something hit them, and the lights went out in time with the teams' gasps of surprise.

      The last Breen ship now had two disabled Starfleet ships and one disabled Romulan ship in front of them.  On the bridge of that ship, the Breen captain motioned to the weapons officer.  Torpedoes streaked out, impacting on the outpost, which disintegrated in a thunderous explosion.  The ship moved forward and seized all three ships with tractor beams.  The ten Breen ships arrived as power was restored in the three Federation ships.  As they drew near, short phaser blasts disabled the tractor beam emitters, and the ships regrouped.

      The team was now on the bridge of the Lakota.  Captain Benteen gritted her teeth.  They were surrounded.

      "This isn't good," she said.

      The Breen closed.

      "Tactical, lock on target.  Fire everything we've got.  On my mark...."

      "Captain!" called the young female lieutenant at the ops console.  "There's another ship coming in... it was hiding behind the planet!"

      "Who is it?" asked Captain Benteen.

      The lieutenant turned.

      "It's the Enterprise!"

Round 3: The Enterprise Factor

       "The Enterprise?  Thank God!  Tactical, stand by to fire in support of the

Enterprise.  On screen!" ordered Benteen.

      "I take it this Enterprise is a good ship?" asked Amy quietly.

      Benteen glanced at her.  "You could say that.  She's a brand new ship, sixth of that name.  Sovereign-class starship, top-of the line, the flagship of the fleet; her crew is practically legendary."

      "Enough to win this?" asked Lita quietly, gazing at the screen.

      The Enterprise dove towards the Breen ships.

      "Almost in range, captain," reported Data.

      "Mr. Wolfe, Mr. Pazrek, at your discretion.  The absolute bottom line is the protection of those other ships.  The Lakota has the 'Visitors' onboard.  We're going to need a new outpost," said Picard.

      "Yes, sir," they answered as one.

      "Ready when you are," said Lt. Commander Gregory Wolfe, tactical officer.

      "Prepare all torpedo bays, forward and bottom phasers," said Pazrek.  "Standby!"

      The Breen were beginning to regroup to meet this new threat.  As they angled themselves towards the incoming ship, she opened fire.  Phasers laced the front two Breen ships, and eight quantum torpedoes shot towards them, evenly divided.  The Enterprise dodged left as the two lead ships exploded.  She came up firing, destroying a third Breen ship from underneath.  Executing a rolling maneuver that would have made a fighter pilot proud, phasers firing on all sides, torpedoes flying, the Enterprise quickly dispatched three more Breen.  The Breen were attempting to target the Enterprise, but Pazrek was just too good.  Fully eighty percent of the incoming fire missed.  He drew the ship straight between two Breen ships, firing the phasers through Wolfe.  This was simply a draw; the side banks only got two shots in each, but they were for annoyance only.  The two Breen ships had fired everything they had to hit the Enterprise, and most of their firepower hit each other, resulting in a spectacular double explosion.   The remaining three Breen all attempted to chase the Enterprise down, following her as Pazrek knew they would.  He flew her straight towards the other ships.

       On the Defiant, Kira Nerys was ready.  "Standby to hit them with everything we've got," she ordered.

       "Nice moves," said the Romulan commander.  "Standby all weapons."

      "The Breen are too overconfident," said his first officer.

      "Agreed," said the Romulan commander.

      On the bridge of the Lakota, the team could only stare in awe as the ship raced right for them.

      "Wow," said Lita.  "What now?"

      "Captain, the Defiant has the first one, the Night Eagle the second," reported the ops officer.

      "Tactical, concentrate all firepower on the third one.  I want that ship dead!  Standby for my command," Benteen said quickly.

      "Yes, sir," said the young male Andorian lieutenant at tactical.  His blue antennae twitched.  "Ready on your mark!"

      "They're coming right at us!" gasped Serena.

      Benteen grinned.

      The Breen expected the Enterprise to spin and protect her heavily damaged friends.  That was not to be.  At the last possible second, the Enterprise flipped and sailed sideways right between the Lakota and Defiant.  Suddenly, the Breen realized their danger.  They tried to stop, turn away and regroup.  That was their final mistake.  The word "Fire!" came from three mouths simultaneously.  Three explosions blossomed in space from the sheer quantity of firepower that was dumped into the three Breen ships.  The fight was over.  Perhaps the best phrase to sum it all up was uttered on the bridge of the Lakota, as the Enterprise soared gracefully back around.

      "Download complete," whispered Amy in awe.

      The doors hissed open.  The team was relaxing in the conference room, gazing at the starlines out of the windows.  After being beamed over to the Enterprise, they had been given casual clothes to blend in and led here.  They still weren't sure what was going on.  Amy gazed at the ships in formation with the Enterprise.

      "I wonder how fast we're going?" she asked no one in particular.

      "Warp 6.  Approximately 392 times the speed of light," said Pazrek.  The team turned, mouths dropping as they caught sight of Pazrek.  Picard, Riker, Data, and Counselor Deanna Troi all followed him in.  They recovered.

      “You're a member of the Order, aren't you?" asked Serena.

      "Wait a minute... how fast?" blinked Amy.

      Pazrek grinned.  "Yes, and 392 times the speed of light, which we call cochranes."

      "The Order?" asked Data.

      "Okay.  Starfleet Command has cleared you all for this, and I know you're probably wondering why a measly Lieutenant is involved in such a sensitive project.  So I will explain," said Pazrek.

      The Sailor Scouts had heard it all before, but the command crew of the Enterprise hadn't.  When he finished, there was silence.  Predictably, Data spoke first.

      "Intriguing.  The idea of parallel universes is nothing new, but to have such a structuring... and this Order dedicated to preserving these universes...  Fascinating."

      "So, that would mean these...you called them 'Hoppers'?" asked Troi, receiving a nod, and then continuing, "are your responsibility?  You have to get them home?"

      "Yes.  Starfleet is already moving to reconstruct the outpost.  That was a rotatable node receiving point.  The next nearest node is at Starbase 375.  That is our next destination.  We must get there in the next three days, or we'll miss the next planar junction, and have to wait three weeks," explained Pazrek.

      "At our current rate of speed, we will not make it in time... We would have to go at least Warp 8," said Data.  He got a funny look from Amy.  "What?"

      "How do you figure things out so fast?" asked Amy.

      "I am an android," said Data.  Amy's eyes widened.

      "Wow, how neat," she said.

      "Android?" asked Darien.

      "A humanoid robot... very complex," said Amy thoughtfully.

      Picard touched his combadge.  "Picard to Bridge.  Increase speed to Warp 9.8, and set course for Starbase 375.  Engage."

      The ship's turn was barely noticeable, but the increase in speed was.  The starlines became longer, and the Enterprise left her companions as she went on her way.

      "So, how fast are we going now?" asked Amy.

      "Almost 2,000 times the speed of light," answered Pazrek.

      "That's, like, really fast, isn't it?" asked Mina.  She got a nod and a smile as her answer.

      "How much faster can this ship go?" asked Amy.  The Starfleet officers exchanged amused glances.  Pazrek glanced at Picard.

      "Take them to guest quarters.  We'll get to Starbase 375 as fast as we can, due to the importance of this project.  You are released to show them around and answer their questions, so long as none of it violates the Prime Directive," said Picard.

      "Thank you for your cooperation, Captain," said Pazrek.  He stood, and motioned to the team to follow.

      "I just have one question for you," began Luna.

      Pazrek looked at her with a raised eyebrow.

      "How come no one here has any problems with talking cats?" she asked.

      "When you deal with talking everything else, why should a talking cat surprise anyone?  Heck, we've talked to rocks, gases, omnipotent beings..."

Chapter 4: Difficult Choices and Wild Rides

            They were talking amiably as Pazrek led them to their quarters.  He had already answered most of their questions.  There was one thing he couldn't prevent, though.  As they rounded a corner, Serena blundered into another blonde and they both tripped and fell.

      "Serena!  Ensign McKnight!  Are the two of you okay?" asked Pazrek.

      Ensign Gabriel McKnight examined the other girl, ready to apologize, but she trailed off on realizing the other girl was a carbon copy of herself, except for the hairdo and the fact she seemed a bit younger.  Serena realized it too, gazing at the girl's short hair, picturing her hairdo there.

      "What the-?" asked McKnight.  She looked at Pazrek.

      "Wow, you to really look a lot alike.  Interesting coincidence.  Sorry to have bothered you, Ensign.  Come on, we really have to be on our way," said Pazrek briskly.  He led them down the corridor.

      All McKnight could do was stare, then shake it off and head for the ship's lounge.

       "What was that?" asked Serena in the safety of their guest quarters.

      "Ensign McKnight is this prime's version of you, Serena," said Pazrek.  Serena's jaw dropped.

      "That was me… here?" she repeated, amazed.

      “Surely you didn't think you Sailor Scouts were the only versions of yourself in existence?" asked Pazrek with a smile.

      "Actually, we never really considered it," murmured Amy.

      "What does she do aboard this ship?" asked Serena, curious.

      "Ensign McKnight?  She's an engineer, specializing in warp systems theory," answered Pazrek with some surprise.  He saw the looks the others were exchanging as Serena absorbed that information.  "Whoa.  Hold on.  I'm not going to start on this track.  Knowledge of your alternate selves is not desired.  Very few can stand up to that kind of examination and even fewer can accept it.  Those who can are mostly members of the Order.  Do you really want to find all that out?  Some of you have dark versions, others even worse…  Trust me.  You don't want to know."

      "But-," began Raye.

      "No buts.  I will not disclose more than I already have.  In this case, it was damage control.  It happened, and I explained it to prevent further investigation," said Pazrek.

      "I like this place," said Amy.  "Any chance of staying?"  She ignored the shocked, hurt looks of the others as she stared at Pazrek, waiting for his answer.  He took his time, examining her closely.

      "Here," he said, motioning towards a monitor.  "I want to show you what's happening on Prime A-74."

      "A-74?  But that's..." trailed off Michelle.

      "Your home prime," finished Pazrek.  The monitor flicked on.  At first, nothing looked different.  Then, the monitor panned to the park.  A silver mist separated the normal park from the gray, dead park.

      "This is Stryfe's surveillance system," explained Pazrek.  "What you see there is the beginning of the fusing of two primes.  The silver mist is the ethereal layer separating the planes.  If it dissolves completely, we are too late, and both primes will become pure chaos, which will eventually spread to the rest of the primes.  This must be stopped, and you are the only ones who can do it."

      "I see," answered Amy.  She studied the picture.  "I guess we have no choice, huh?" she asked.

      "Correct," said Pazrek.  "There is simply no time to waste.  I-"

      "Picard to Pazrek," his combadge said.

      Pazrek reached up and tapped his badge.  "Go ahead, sir," he said.

      "We may have a problem regarding your guests... please bring them with you to the observation lounge immediately," ordered Picard's voice.

      "On our way, sir!" said Pazrek.

      The doors hissed open, and Pazrek led the team through to the conference table.  Picard, Riker, Data, and Troi were already seated, waiting for the team.

      "What seems to be the problem, sir?" asked Pazrek.

      "We have received a distress call from the Gorkahn system.  They are experiencing a severe plague and are having environmental problems as well.  We can't ignore this, and it takes higher priority than your Hoppers.  This means that we will not make it to the Starbase in time," said Picard.

      Pazrek glanced out of the window and cursed.  "We can't miss this rendezvous, sir.  Is there a way we can get dropped off first?  Any Starfleet ships in range to ferry us there?"

      "It is impossible to meet time constraints by dropping you off, so that is out of the question.  Also, the rest of the ships in this sector are fortifying the border, so that will, unfortunately, not happen," said Riker.

      "Well, what about if we use one of the warp passenger shuttles?  It could get a little cramped, but we could manage it," stated Pazrek.

      "In this area of space?  It is particularly dangerous in this sector, both from the Breen and the unusual frequency of anomalies and other terrain features," said Data.

      "I'm a particularly fine pilot," said Pazrek with a small smile.

      "Are you that confident about your abilities?" asked Troi.

      "Counselor, in most cases I would accept the delay, like if they're being here was accidental," he said, indicating the Scouts with a wave of his hand, "but it's not.  We are pressed for time.  The longer it takes to get these Hoppers home, the more damage the idiot on their prime can do and the less chance we have of stopping him."

      "So we have no choice but to attempt a dangerous shuttle ride?" asked Amy.

      "Correct," said Pazrek.

      "Great," muttered Lita.

      "If its any consolation, he's the best pilot in Starfleet," smiled Riker.

      Lita just sighed, resigned to her fate.

       The warp passenger shuttle Concorde-E gracefully swept out of the primary shuttlebay of the Enterprise, still in its warp field.  Aboard the Concorde, Pazrek touched the panel in front of him.

      "Enterprise, this is the shuttle Concorde.  Ready for warp departure procedure on 5," he said.

      "Standing by," came the reply.

      "What does this involve?" asked Michelle.

      "We energize our warp engines at the same moment the Enterprise makes a sharp turn.  The object is that both of us maintain our high warp speed, and we can be on our way," said Pazrek.  "Enterprise, on my mark.  5, 4, 3, 2, 1, Mark!"  He pressed his panel.

      The shuttle shuddered slightly, but suddenly they were all alone, starlines flashing by outside as Pazrek turned the Concorde to its new heading.  He leaned back, examining the displays, and then surveying the slightly cramped shuttle.  The team had situated themselves as best as possible, but he still didn't want to be here longer than he had to.

      "I thought this sector was dangerous?" asked Mina.

      "It is.  We have a 23-hour trip ahead of us.  The next three hours are fairly safe, but then we sweep through the Briar Patch area.  There are all sorts of interesting things there.  After about eight hours of the Patch, we will near the border, and Breen encounters are fairly common... twelve hours of constant vigilance to Starbase 375," he finished.

      "Are you worried?" asked Raye.

      "Not really.  I won't really worry until we near the border, and then we can always run for our lives to Starbase 375," he smiled.

      "But the Breen were able to destroy the base we were on," said Serena.

      "That was a measly outpost.  Starbases are a more dangerous proposition.  The Breen aren't very likely to tangle with it," he said.

      "Well, I suggest we get some sleep now," said Darien.

      "I was about to suggest the same thing.  I'm going to nap, too.  I have the computer set to auto-alert, if we see an anomaly or hostile ships.  I'll need all my attentiveness for the last twelve-hour stretch," yawned Pazrek.

      The team exchanged looks as they all settled down to rest.

       A steady, light beeping brought Samantha back to reality.  She roused herself, then glanced out the cockpit window, only to stare.  The beauty of the surrounding space held her gaze.  Orange gas clouds mixed with light pink and yellow to create an amazing panorama.  Stars flashed by as the shuttle stayed on the outskirts of the cloud.

      "Wow," she whispered.

      "Nice, huh?" asked a smiling Pazrek in the pilot's seat.  Samantha sat down in the one next to him.

      "Where are we?" she asked.

      "We have about another hour of the Patch left to bypass, and then we reach the most dangerous part.  Starbase 375 is on the other side of an asteroid field that usually takes about two hours to go above, at maximum recommended speed, which is Warp 5.  I'm not intending to rush that part.  I'm already in contact with several ships, and no Breen contact has been reported.  They'll let us know if that changes," said Pazrek.

      "So we slept for ten hours?  Geez," said Samantha.  The other Scouts were now beginning to stir.  "And we only have 13 hours left to go?"

      "Correct," said Pazrek.

      "I'm hungry," complained Reeni.  The rest of the team murmured agreement, and Pazrek proceeded to show them how to use the replicators for food.

      "Roger that.  Thank you, Captain," said Pazrek.

      "We'll keep you informed.  One final warning... we lost several detection arrays in the region about three hours ago, so there may be a few Breen attackers that we can't find.  I would be alert.  Other than that, call if you need us.  Yorktown out."  The screen bleeped off.  Pazrek sat back, glancing at his displays and then out the cockpit view port.  The tension was evident in his posture.

      "One hour to the asteroids," he murmured to himself.

       The asteroids loomed out in front of them as Pazrek brought the Concorde into a gentle climb, rising near the topmost layer of the asteroids, reducing speed and raising the shields.  He took a deep breath, and concentrated on flying.

      "Can't you set the autopilot?" asked Amy quietly.

      Pazrek shook his head.  "Most asteroids are contained in the gravity fields of this entire asteroid field, but you never know when a loose one might fly up at you."

      "Oh," said Amy.  She looked thoughtful for a moment.  "But wouldn't the sensors warn you?"

      "With all the interference generated by this place?  Sensors are erratic as a Cardassian here.  I can't really depend on more than short range sensors," Pazrek said, concentrating on his instruments, occasionally glancing out at the surroundings.

      "What's that green flash over there?" asked Melanie.

      "Green flash?" asked Pazrek; looking in the direction she was pointing.  He concentrated at where she had seen it, studying carefully.  Another glint of light... like starlight reflecting off of a starships' hull, with a touch of green...

      The Scouts saw Pazrek go really pale.

      "What?" croaked Serena.  Pazrek suddenly swooped down, dropping out of warp and diving towards the asteroids.  A blast of energy exploded in front of them.  Three Breen attackers roared towards them.  The shuttle rocked from a disrupter impact.

      "Damn," muttered Pazrek.  "They're jamming all frequencies.  We can't talk to anyone.  I guess its cat and mouse through the asteroids.  Hang on!"

      The shuttle flipped over, diving under a particularly large asteroid, coming left as two more Breen flashed towards them.  Disrupter fire rippled across their shields.  The shuttle shook heavily.  The team was hanging on for dear life.  Pazrek ducked the shuttle left, straight for a large asteroid, with a Breen on his tail.  Sweat dripped on his forehead as he swung the shuttle viciously around the asteroid.  He powered up his point phasers, and fired at a small asteroid nearby, blasting part of it off, causing the remaining section to revolve erratically to the left... right into the Breen ship, which disintegrated from the impact.  Free of that trailer, the Concorde whipped upwards, on top of the field once more.  The four Breen ships were hot on his tail.  Pazrek punched the Concorde to Warp 8, the shuttle's max speed.  The shuttle fairly screamed from the effort.  Suddenly, disrupter bursts nailed the Concorde right in the warp drive, wrecking it and causing a shower of sparks to rain down upon the terrified passengers and pilot.  Pazrek brought her back down into the field, screening the Concorde from further damage with asteroids.  Several times, asteroids rubbed against her shields, jerking the ship roughly around.

      "Uh oh," the team heard Pazrek say.

      "What?" exclaimed Amara.

      "The shields are almost gone.  We'll be dead in here without them."

      "What are we going to do?" asked Trista.

      An explosion flashed to the left, marking the death of another Breen ship in an asteroid collision.

      "We're almost there..." muttered Pazrek grimly.  Suddenly, they shot out of the field, turning straight towards a huge structure.  The Breen followed, and then tried to break off upon sighting where they were and what they were facing, but it was too late.  Powerful phasers and torpedoes ripped into them, disintegrating them as the Concorde gracefully moved towards the dock area of Starbase 375.

      "Well, it was nice meeting this version of you," said Serena to Pazrek as he configured the node.  The O-frame was already rotating.

      He grinned.  "Likewise.  You take care, and hurry home.  We're depending on you."

      "Where are we going now?" asked Amy.

      "D-53.  D-stacks are interesting, combining technology and mythical power in one set of realities.  And we're just about ready..." He trailed off.   White energy burst into the O-ring, opening the node.

      "Now!" said Pazrek.  "Good luck!" 

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