Dragon Ball Z/ Sailor Moon/ Ranma ½ fanfic.
"Past, Present and Uncertainty."
By Julian Soullard (e-mail: [email protected])
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Chapter 13:
Decision making process: Second predicament
His first thought was that the stairs in front of him led to Hikawa
Shrine, but when he went up, he realized that he had arrived at an entirely
different temple. More or less the same size than Rei's, although it looked
a little older. Actually... the word 'darker' seemed more fitting for its
description. The place itself wasn't really ugly or evil looking, but
something in the air made it all feel apprehensive. Almost as if something
bad had happened here.
How exactly did he get here in the first place?
Trunks didn't know, but something deep within told him to enter the
temple and clear his doubts. Once he opened the doors he discovered no one
inside. There was an altar at the end of the room with some burning incense
escorting its sides. When the Saiyajin hybrid approached it, the familiar
name which written in it echoed through his heart.
Kino...
Not the Kino he knew. The picture of a middle age couple placed at
the center of the altar clearly proved that Makoto wasn't the one who had
passed away. Trunks felt a sudden relief after figuring that out, but then
began to analyze the picture some more.
Kino... could this couple be Makoto's...
The unexpected sound of tears interrupted that line of thought. It
was coming from behind the altar. Trunks slowly peeked from above, careful
not to startle whoever was the cause of such sorrow.
A little girl, no more than eight years old was sitting in a fetal
position, her back pressed against the altar and face buried between her
knees. Apparently, she didn't notice when Trunks entered the temple or
approached her.
"Hey, kid. Are you okay?" he asked, only to realize seconds later
how stupid that question sounded. Of course she wasn't okay! Otherwise
she wouldn't be crying.
The girl lifted her tear flooded eyes to meet his own. Trunks' heart
jumped. That was Makoto. Younger, no doubt about it, but it was definitively
her.
"What am I going to do now?" the girl manage to ask, "I'm all alone."
Regardless of being someone not too open to physical contact, at
least not in this sort of way, Trunks tried to comfort the younger version
of his ex-girlfriend by taking her between his arms. Makoto offered no
resistance at all, actually, the strong grip of her hands on his jacket
showed that she needed that kind of gesture right now.
"I miss them..."
"I know." he replied.
**********
Things had turned out all right fortunately. Makoto was no one to
differ on that. Even though Trunk's body had been stolen, her friends had
done a great job in recovering it. And the sacrifice she had perform in
order to keep his Sphere in a safe place had worked as well without causing
her nothing far more serious than just momentary pain.
However, two days had passed since Trunk's Essence Sphere had been
returned to his body and the hybrid still remained asleep. What if he never
woke up? By taking the Sphere inside of her could she had in some way
altered it? No. Ami told her that Trunks' Essence Sphere just needed time
to readjust to its old environment. So, until that happened, he would be
staying as a guest in Makoto's apartment.
[Talk about ironic...] she thought.
So, what would happen next? What would happen once he'd wake up?
Would things change? Would things get worse?
She wasn't sure what to think anymore. Things had turned so
confusing between the two of them. So many things, so little time in which
they occurred. Nothing seemed clear anymore. Even in her own head there was
a big debate going on between most of Makoto's emotions.
She wanted to be with Trunks again. Back to the way they were three
years ago... or eight... whatever... But she was scared too. What if Trunks
didn't feel the same for her anymore? Things seemed to be that way since he
decided to remain distant. But he saved her, didn't he? So... what did that
mean? How should she see all that has been happening? And besides, could
this be a long term relationship? Would he leave again?
Makoto scrubbed the kitchen table for the hundred time already. All
these emotions fighting against each other had her so tense that she needed
something to do in order to keep busy.
With a heavy sigh, she took a seat and brought her hands to her
forehead, as if it could somehow help to put some order in her mind. When
the doorbell rang, she jolted up, startled. Once she regained her composure,
she went to open. Rei and Hotaru were on the other side.
"Hi, Mako-chan!" Hotaru declared joyfully. Rei on the other hand
just waved and forced a small smile.
That was another thing that needed closure. This long lasting anger
the brunette felt towards the Shinto priestess had to be solved too. She
gestured them to come inside.
"Is Trunks-san awake?" the little purple eye girl asked rather
forwardly.
"I'm afraid not, Hotaru-chan." she told her.
"Oh..." she said a little sad, but then switched back to happy mode,
"Well, it's okay. I'm sure he'll wake up soon. You'll see."
"Yes... I know he will." Makoto declared confidently, "So, what
brings you two here?"
"We bumped into each other on our way here." Rei answered.
"Actually, I was heading home. I just tagged along to see if I'd
catch Trunks-san awake." Hotaru informed. "But in any case, I guess I should
be leaving now. I just wanted to see if everything was all right."
"Okay, thanks for the visit, Hotaru-chan." the brunette stated,
"I'll let you know the second he's awake and tell him you came to visit."
"Okay, bye then."
"Bye."
The door closed and now there was only the two of them left. Well...
three if you counted Trunks, but right now he wasn't awake in order to be
part of the upcoming discussion.
"I brought Trunks some clothes." Rei began, as she showed her host
a plastic bag, "I thought he might need them once he wakes up."
"His clothes? How did you get inside his apartment?"
"I... know where he hides his spare key." she answered somewhat
uncomfortable.
"Oh..."
That was the kind of 'Oh' people don't like to hear. It may not
seem like much, but given the right tone and strength, a simple 'Oh' can
say a lot of things. In this particular case, it didn't show any signs of
happiness. More like jealousy and reproach instead. Rei decided to clear
things out before it became too late.
"Mako-chan..." she began, "Nothing happened between Trunks and I,
if that's what worries you."
"I know nothing happened." the brunette told her, "I know you too
well. And that's not what bothers me."
"Then what is it?" she asked, "You've barely even spoke to me and
when you do it's not to give me any compliments. I know I did wrong by
holding this secret, but you've got to try to put yourself in my shoes."
"Don't you see?" Makoto explained, "Everything has changed
compared to three years ago. Everything. Trunks may have been my boyfriend
in the end, but before that, he was my friend. We were inseparable. He told
me everything. And now look at us. We can't even look at each other... and
I hate that... I hate that everything between us has changed. I hate the
fact that everything is turning out wrong. And... I hate the fact that he
went to you for help instead of me. I know this sounds stupid, but I can't
help feeling this whenever I remember that not only I lost the man I loved,
but a friend as well."
"It doesn't sound stupid, Mako-chan." the priestess pointed out, "I
only wished that things would've turned out okay since it all started. But
you know what?.. I think this may be a good time for you two to straight
things out."
"I know... but I'm scared." she declared, "What if things get even
worse?"
"Don't worry. I'm sure things will turn out for the best." Rei
encouraged, "I can't speak for Trunks, since I'm not him, but I'm sure he's
as worried about this than you are. And I'm sure he wants to solve this too.
It's just a matter of talking to him."
"Yeah... I guess you're right... thanks."
"So... are we okay now?"
"Sure... sorry for giving you such a rough time these last few
days." Makoto apologized, "Can you forgive me?"
"Sure I can." she stated with a smile, "It comes with the territory.
Forgive and forget."
"By the way, is that why you brought Hotaru with you?"
"Well... yeah... Partially at least. She was worried about Trunks
though, but I could've used someone who you wouldn't slam the door in front
of their noses next to me in case you were still angry."
"Smart move." she chuckled, "If she hadn't been with you, I probably
would have done that."
**********
Ranma was taking deep breaths while he pressed his back against a
wall. A beam of light, coming from outside the building passed next to him,
trying to reveal his presence. The martial artist held his breath. After a
couple of seconds that felt like hours, he could hear the sound of his
hunters leaving somewhere else, probably to keep looking for him. Ranma
resumed breathing.
It really did feel as if the entire city was out to get him. He'd
been so concentrated in not getting caught that he didn't even get the
chance to think on what would he do to get out of this mess. Now seemed a
time as good as any to ponder on that.
Maybe he could find another one of those portal things to get back
to Earth. Problem was, where to find one and how to make it work. Recent
events proved that the locals wouldn't kindly point him towards the nearest
exit. And there was something else too. The reason he got mixed up in this
mess was because he sought answers about the Masters of Tomorrow. Going
back home sounded like a really good plan, but getting something out of
this trip would be even better. Some sort of information, weapon or
something that could somehow help Trunks and the Senshi to kick these guys
back to where they came from.
Considering that standing still wouldn't get him anywhere, Ranma
decided to inspect the building he was now in. It felt rather odd... he did
remember that there were a lot of robots inside when he first came, but now
the place seemed deserted. Well, it didn't matter. It would make his
investigation a lot easier if he didn't had to hide from the building's
staff.
Much like the first building he visited, this place seemed like the
wet dream of any Sci-Fi fan. The place was huge and appeared to be some sort
of fully automated factory. Just the place to find something juicy, Ranma
thought.
After walking through the corridors for a while, the new Son Goku
ended up inside the main building area. His eyes kept on going up as he
witnessed the colossal space ship in front of him. He couldn't tell from
where he stood, but that thing seemed bigger than all of Nerima, and it's
black color gave it a certain death seeking demeanor. That and the really
big plasma canons it had, of course. More impressive was the fact that there
wasn't just one space ship, but an entire fleet. Although the first one was
by far the biggest ship of all.
"Oh, man..." he said, "With this kind of firepower they can take
the entire Earth in no time. But why haven't they done so already?"
A few computers were set not too far away from the ships. Ranma went
to them to see if he could find out something useful. Even though computers
weren't his specialty, you didn't need a degree in programming to see the
contents on the screen.
[Project Dark Snowfall?] he inquired as he raised an eyebrow,
[What's this all about?]
He tried to make as much sense as possible out of the diagrams and
data he found, but an unexpected guest interrupted his research. Ranma
didn't sense him, nor hear him, and if it weren't for his reflection on the
computer screen he was looking, he wouldn't have known either. And more
importantly, he wouldn't have been able to move out of the way as the
stranger's huge fist came on to him, crashing against the computer instead
of the intruder.
The martial artist flipped his way out of reach. Now he could see
his adversary properly. He was big... quite big. And strong too. Bald,
square jaw, and dark eyes that showed no emotions. His uniform consisted of
a complete black and tight clothing, similar to the one some of the Masters
of Tomorrow wore.
The man's cold stare turned towards him.
"I'm just taking a wild guess here, but you're not the janitor, are
you?" Ranma joked, but his opponent didn't brake a smile and decided to
attack instead.
Faster than Ranma had anticipated. The man's muscular body didn't
hamper any of his moves. Regardless of being rather fast himself, the new
Son Goku had been forced to remain at the defensive. Each blow whistled next
to him, but that was just the beginning. If things didn't change soon, he'd
be in trouble.
An opening. Ranma didn't waste this opportunity and send his fist
right against the man's side. A 'crunch' noise came out as the martial
artist's hand broke once it hit. Ranma quickly draw back, clutching his
fingers in pain.
Now it was him who left an opening and the big man took advantage
of it, getting a more satisfying result than his opponent. The strength of
the blow had no peers in Ranma's mental fighting archive, which was rather
big. He was sent flying backwards once hit, braking through a wall and
falling on his back surrounded by rocky debris. The pain he felt in his hand
had now gown along his arm. Probably broken now as well.
"Okay... you asked for it, light bulb head!" he declared as he
painfully got to his feet and extended his still functional arm, "Eat this!!
Mokuo Takabisha!!"
He didn't even move when the blast approached him. His sensors
informed that his external armor could take the hit without a problem
instead of wasting energy to raise a shield. There was a bit of an uproar
once the blast connected, making some pavement to crack and dust to lift,
but other than that, the android was completely unharmed.
Once the dust clear off, the intruder had disappeared.
"Computer." the man said out loud, "This is Jarek. Pin point current
intruder location."
"Intruder located in sector S-3." spoke a robotic voice coming from
the roof, "Authorization to initiate security lock up sequence."
"Affirmative."
Ranma flew with all of his remaining strength. With only one arm he
knew he wouldn't be able to put much of a fight. Time to blow this joint.
The means to do it would be interesting to know, though.
The sound of heavy iron doors slamming shut approached him from
behind. The martial artist made a quick turn into the first room he found
before getting trapped in the hallway. The last door closed seconds before
he entered what appeared to be a small control room.
[Okay, Ranma... how are you going to pull yourself out of this one
now?] he thought.
[Go to the control panel.] said a second voice in his head.
"What?? Who's that??" he asked jolting up.
[Do not be worried. I'm on your side.] said the voice, [My name is
Sailor Pluto.]
"A Sailor Senshi?" he asked, "Here? Where are you? How are you doing
this?"
[That's not important right now.] Pluto clear out, [You have little
time before they come looking for you. Go to the control panel so you can
use one of the portals.]
"Do you know how to make these things work?"
[In a broad sense, yes.] she explained, [As a Guardian of Time I'm
able to sense probability which can affect the future. In this case, I can
use these powers to determine the code which will open a portal. I just need
some time.]
"And why are you doing this exactly?"
[I need you to come where I'm being held prisoner.]
"You scratch my back and I scratch yours." Ranma considered, "Sounds
fair enough."
The silence in the room was suddenly interrupted by a low, almost
indistinguishable, sound. Like the hissing sound of a snake. Ranma took his
eyes upwards and saw in horror how a pink gas of some sort made its way
inside the room through the ventilation shafts.
"Er.. Pluto..." he began, "I don't mean to rush you, but could you
hurry? They're pumping some sort of gas into the room... and I don't think
it's perfume."
[I'm almost done. Press the following code.]
Ranma followed every instruction sent through the mind link he had
with the captive Senshi and pressed the according buttons with typewriting
accuracy with his only arm that could do the job. The gas also worked
hurriedly in filling the room.
With a last push of a button, a swirling void of purple light formed
in front of the martial artist's eyes. Ranma took a dive in without thinking
it twice.
**********
His eyes met an unfamiliar ceiling once they opened and adjusted to
the light. It took a few seconds for Trunks to shake out the confusion out
of his head. He just woke up and felt the world's biggest hangover, which
suggested to make slow and easy moves for the time being.
He was in a bed.
Bed? This wasn't his bed. How did he get here? And... this room...
this wasn't his room either. It was too... girlish. The Saiyajin hybrid
blinked a few times, trying to put some order in his mind. How did he get
here? He tried to take a few steps back in time to explain his current
situation, but there seemed to be a gap in his memories. He was talking to
Eron and then... then... Hey, wait a minute, where did his clothes go?!
Trunks took a look under his sheets and his eyes widen. That wasn't his
underwear!! Heck, that couldn't even be considered as underwear!!
Now he was officially worried. And he became even more worried when
he realized that he remembered this room. This was Makoto's apartment.
[Oh my God...] he thought.
He just woke up, naked, with no clear memories of what happened.
[Oh... my... God...]
Not to mention that he woke up naked in a girl's bed and with a big
hangover.
[Oh... my... GOD!!]
And that girl just happened to be Makoto Kino.
[OH MY GHAAAWWWWWWWWDDDDD!!!]
Yes... Trunks was now officially worried. Because, when you lack
information, your imagination tends to fill in the gaps. And given the
circumstances, Trunks' imagination took some interesting assumptions.
[Did we... I mean... did I... and her... did we...] he tried to
explain.
He took a deep breath. He had to think this straight. Okay... what
did he knew? Last thing he remembered was talking to Eron, or making him
talk actually, in order to find out what were his plans. Then, the Senshi
appeared. Some Raiders showed up as well as a welcome committee. Then came
the fight, but Trunks didn't take his eyes away from Eron. He did remember
that Eternal Sailor Moon accidentally discovered the Masters' of Tomorrow
hideout and the Outer Senshi went towards it. Then Eron started teasing him
and... and he sent a blast from his ring towards Makoto. Yes! That's what
happened! He ran like crazy to get her out of the way, but... but... what
happened then?
[Oh, no! Is she all right?]
He quickly got out of bed but clumsily fell to the ground. He still
felt disorientated and a little weak. Not to mention very naked. However,
regardless of that, he grabbed the bed's sheets to cover himself the best he
could and went for the door. His hand was inches away from the doorknob when
Makoto on the other side opened it instead, probably concerned from the
noise Trunks made when he fell. She felt startled to find him so close to
her... physically speaking of course, and Trunks felt the same way. You
could see it in their faces.
"Are you all right?" was the first thing Trunks said.
"Er... yes.. of course..." she responded a little confused, "How...
are you doing?"
"I... I... don't know." he confessed, still disorientated, "What...
what happened? I remember a fight, but then..."
"Here, sit down." she told him, as she guided him next to a chair,
"You've been out for two days, your body must be feeling weak."
"Two days? I've been sleeping for two days? Why... why did I slept
for two days?"
"You don't remember what happened?"
"I... remember Eron shooting at you, but then... I don't know..." he
explained, "It's all weird. It's as if I've been living in someone else's
memories. Like some weird dream."
Makoto's eyes showed a brief moment of surprise. That was exactly
the way she felt when she took his Essence Sphere inside her body, with the
only difference that she had been conscious, more or less, through out the
entire dream sequence. Could this be some sort of collateral effect?
"You put yourself in front of me and took the blast." she pointed
out, not without some degree of shyness, "Your Essence Sphere was taken out
of your body."
"What?" he asked confused.
The girl explained exactly how everything happened, filling in the
blanks from what the other girls told her while she guarded Trunks' Sphere.
Her guest still looked dazed with such revelation. Especially when learning
the sacrifice she did for him. Nevertheless, he avoided eye contact with her
in every occasion, but paid close attention to the story.
Once Makoto finished her recital, a short paused followed. Now that
they had gone through all of the 'professional' stuff, there was only a more
personal matter left to be discussed, and bringing the first words seemed to
be the main problem.
"Makoto... I..." Trunks began, "I'd like to thank you for what you
did."
"It's okay." she answered, trying to look calm with the subject,
"You saved me, so I guess it was the least I could do in return."
"Yes... well thanks anyway. That and for letting me stay here till
I recovered."
"It's no problem at all, really." she declared, "Are you feeling
better? I began to worry that maybe I might have done something to your
Essence Sphere by... well... you know..."
"I... guess I'm okay. I just feel a little woozy, but nothing
serious." he reassured her, "By the way... Do you think I could use your
shower? I think I need one after two days of constant sleep."
"Oh, sure, sure. Help yourself. Rei brought you some clothes, by the
way."
Looks like that talk she'd been waiting would have to wait a little
more after all.
**********
The Lord's tower was the source of horrible painful screams.
Everyone in Dominia knew that Kyristan could forgive, but there were some
errors that not even he could allow to go unpunished.
Eron and Arlakk were floating in mid air, engulfed in a purple
inferno. This being the reward for losing Saiya-man's Essence Sphere. They
wouldn't die, that was certain, for their Lord still needed them, but the
pain and suffering Kyristan put them through was by far worse than a simple
death. And a lot slower too.
The two servants crashed against the floor once their master had
considered that the punishment had been enough. The dark flames disappeared
as fast as they first came, leaving only painful souvenirs in the two
Masters of Tomorrow. Slowly, the sorcerer and the scientist got up. Sorine,
who had just stood there and watch, didn't even considered helping them out.
"Needless to say that I'm very disappointed in the two of you."
Kyristan declared, "It appears you're not taking this mission seriously
enough."
The two servants remained silent in a bowing position. What could
they actually say to defend themselves? Failure was not an excuse anymore.
Kyristan got up from his throne, his huge frame forming a shadow on top of
the three Masters of Tomorrow.
"So... let's review the situation." he began, "We have no Outpost,
no Essence Sphere, a new defender against us, plus an intruder who found a
way to enter my world. This does not bode well. Now... could someone please
give me some good news?"
"Security shall be tighten even more, my Lord." Sorine began, "We
assume the intruder entered Dominia through one of the Outpost's portals.
To prevent this from happening again, we are currently using new 'one-way'
portals. We shall also prepare a new Outpost with out-most discretion to
keep the defenders uninformed of our activities."
"And what about today's intruder?"
"The intruder had been identified as the former identity of Super
Saiya-man: Son Goku." the android explained, "However, according to the data
I collected from the Sentries' memory banks during the fight, this
particular Son Goku is significantly weaker than the original and uses a
different fighting style during battle. It is clear that he is an impostor."
"Impostor or not, he got into Dominia. And I don't like that."
Kyristan noted, "What happened once he entered your facilities, Sorine?"
"I decided to evacuate all the staff and send in Jarek to deal with
the intruder." she explained.
"But he got away."
"Correct. The intruder used a portal to escape. The means he used
to activate the portal are still unexplained to us. Only I know the codes
to activate those in my research center."
"Our intruder received some external help." Kyristan pointed out,
"I underestimated Sailor Pluto's powers. Even when I imprisoned her, she
managed to assist our visitor. Her presence from the Gates of Time has
disappeared now. It is now obvious that she led this new Son Goku to her in
order to free her."
"We can still go after them." Sorine declared, "I can personally
supervise the mission this time. Knowing this Son Goku's powers, it shall
not be difficult for me to overpower him."
"Forget about them." her lord said, "Given her actual state, Sailor
Pluto won't offer much trouble. Both of them are now probably lost in the
streams of time. More importantly, I'd like to know more about this new
defender."
Kyristan directed his flaming eyes towards Arlakk. This was gesture
enough for the sorcerer to know that he had permission to speak. He got up.
"This girl who calls herself Sailor Saturn is by far the strongest
Senshi among the eight we've fought." he informed, "She is second to Super
Saiya-man when it comes to energy blasts and her protection techniques are
quite strong as well. Even my strongest magical blast gave inconclusive
results during our short match. I plan to put her mind power to the test in
future encounters. However, I believe that she might not show up often."
"Yes... It's painfully obvious that the defenders know we were
studying them and were saving their strongest cards till the nick of time."
Kyristan commented, "Both Eron and you were lucky to come out alive."
"Yes... we were." Arlakk validated, "However, I'm already
considering several possible spells that will result a lot more effective
if I meet her again."
"And what about Saiya-man, Eron?" the Lord asked, "What do *you*
have to report?"
This was getting a little intense for the scientist's stress level.
Two lectures in the same day with big probabilities of ending is something
fatal for his health.
"The defenders showed up without the Essence Sphere at the meeting."
he began, "I guess their behavior is a lot more risky than I first though.
Considering that, Arlakk tried to neutralize them with some help from his
lesser demons so we could get their Spheres instead. We had everything under
control until those Outer Senshi, Saturn among them, showed up. Saturn kept
us busy while the rest went for Saiya-man's body. It all came in the end
with a big bang... literally."
"Is that all you have to say of your failure?"
He was getting special attention, although not the one he liked the
most. If he didn't share any good news soon, Lord Kyristan might consider
taking him out of the mission permanently... and in a very unpleasant manner.
Fortunately, the scientist didn't bring just bad news. Out of the pocket of
his robe, he pulled out a small flask containing a strange liquid.
"Actually, there's something more." he went on, "The moment
Saiya-man's Sphere was taken out, I couldn't help to notice that his power
had vanished. If that power had been granted to him by some exterior force,
I assumed he would've kept his 'form', shall we call it, regardless of being
unconscious. This made me believe that his power came from him. Or more
exactly, from what he is."
"Explain yourself, Eron."
"Yes, my Lord." Eron continued, "In other words, I think Saiya-man
belongs to another dimension entirely and that his power can be studied if
we analyze his genes. I took the liberty of taking blood and tissue samples
out of his body while he was our guest in Dominia. My staff is already
studying the samples."
Kyristan couldn't hide a smirk on his face.
"You plan to use his genes as a new weapon?" he asked, although it
seemed more like a statement, "You want to use his genes with your DNA
assimilation technique in order to have his exact powers?"
"Yes, my Lord." the scientist confirmed, "If my theory is correct,
I will be able to copy his exact strength, speed, stamina and special
abilities."
"Very well, it seems that this battle didn't turned out as a
complete waste after all." the master of Dominia declared, "It looks like we
have a busy schedule ahead of us. Listen to my words, for this is what I
command. Sorine, I want you to supervise the construction of our new Outpost
with all the precautions that are needed. Arlakk, finding Sailor Saturn's
weakness is now your priority. Do all the research you need, use all the
spells you consider helpful, send Delif into battle if it's of any use, but
see to it that this girl's Essence Sphere will eventually be in my hands
along with the others. You are still in charge of the mission for the time
being. Eron, proceed with your investigation on Saiya-man's DNA. I'll be
expecting a full report of your progress every five days."
The three servants bowed in acknowledgment. After that, all where
dismissed and sent back to their operation centers where they hastily
started working on their new orders. Kyristan took a seat back in his throne
and gestured the dome to open up, revealing Dominia in all its splendor. His
fiery gaze traveled through all of his domain.
"Try to rest now, defenders." he said, "Rest now, while we
reorganize our strategy. Because once we're settled, you'll never get to
rest again."
**********
The water stopped pouring once Trunks turned off the faucets. The
last of his black hair dye he'd been wearing dripped down the drain.
Whatever substance Eron had him inside that tank seemed to dilute his
'not-much-of-a-disguise', giving his hair its original purple color. But
then again, there wasn't a reason to keep his disguise now that the girls
knew about him, was there?
[So now what?] he thought as he looked at himself in the mirror,
[What are you suppose to do now, Trunks?]
The storm had passed but not all problems were solved. His biggest
problem so far remained: What was going to happen with Makoto Kino? He
couldn't just say thanks and leave. He had to solve this now. He should've
done it since the first day he got here.
"But you couldn't face her then, could you?" he whispered, "You
were too scared of what could happen that you prefer hiding behind a mask
instead. You coward."
Losing a loved one was the hardest thing Trunks had to go through.
Either because of death or by departure. And now that he gave it some
thought about it, it also explained a lot of things. He feared hurting
Makoto again, but he feared hurting himself as well. If he fell in love one
more time, he wouldn't be able to bare the pain of losing her yet a second
time when his time in this dimension would be up.
But that didn't matter anymore. He just couldn't go on living with
that kind of fear. He'd been doing that for far too long now, and that's why
his previous relationships didn't work out. It was because of him. Because
he didn't want them to work. If he broke a relationship, then it was because
he wanted it to, not because fate had taken an unilateral decision against
him like in the old days.
"But you can't keep this up." he said, "Some prince of Saiyajin
*you* turned out to be. Fleeing and turning your back when this is the girl
who have brought you happiness."
He took one last stare into the mirror. Maybe it wasn't too late to
try to fix this. God knows what would happen from this point on, but he
wouldn't run away from it any more.
The door to the bathroom opened and Trunks came out fully dressed.
Makoto was spotted near the kitchen. She just hung up the phone.
"I just told the girls you're all right." she explained.
"Okay."
"By the way, there's this too." she pointed out, as she took out a
wrist watch out of her pocket, "Rei managed to save this during the battle.
I think it's where you keep your suite, although you don't have one right
now, so there's only your clothes, which you already have and... [Great now
I'm babbling like an idiot!]"
"Thank you." Trunks said, as he reached into her hand. They could
both feel a warm sensation sliding between their fingers, "Makoto..."
"Yes..."
"I... I think I owe you an apology." the hybrid began, "Things
have... well... been rather difficult because of me in these last few days."
"[That's a way to put it...] Yes, well... there has been a lot of
things going on."
"I really should've done this earlier." he said ashamed, "I guess I
didn't knew how to deal with it, but I'd like to try and talk about it
now... if you want to, that is."
"Yes. I want to." she stated with butterflies in her stomach. She
was also showing a remarkable interest at looking at her own shoes.
"Okay... here goes..." Trunks declared as he took a deep breath,
"The reason I've been acting the way I have is because... well... I didn't
knew how to face the situation, and more importantly, I didn't knew how to
face you because of our... past. I guess that... well... if I remained
invisible to your eye, I thought I might have pulled this off without
causing much of a big deal."
"Yes... I guessed as much."
"And... I... well... I don't know exactly how to say this... I'm
not really good at saying stuff like this."
"I... understand." Makoto interrupted, "It's been very confusing
for me too. All these feelings coming at the same time..."
"That's what I'm talking about." Trunks went on, "I... I think I
still have... feelings for you. I... I know this isn't right... for you
or for me, since I won't stay here long, but..."
"I... think I still have feelings for you too." she added, and
her visitor couldn't help to look surprise, "I know this sounds stupid.
We've both changed since the last time you were here. But still... I
can't just pretend that these feelings don't exist. But I... I... I
don't..."
Confusion reigned supreme in this conversation. It was obvious
that both individuals were still attracted to each other. However, the
mere thought of ending up broken hearted like last time sent some
unwanted disturbance into their souls. Trunks tentatively approached his
hand towards her shoulder, hoping not to scare her. It felt as a strange
relief once he touched her.
"Makoto... I... I'm sorry. Hurting you was the first thing I
wanted to avoid, and it ended up being the first thing I did." he
continued, "Listen... I... I don't know how the future will come out, I
don't know how long will I stay or how all of this craziness will end...
but... still... I'd like to try to work this out. At least try to make
it work."
"I... yes..." Makoto declared honestly, yet fearful as
well, "I want to find out as well ."
"Then let's take this one step at a time." he suggested, and
she gently lifted her gaze to meet his, "If this is the right thing for
us, then let's do it. Makot... Mako-chan... even if I'm destined to leave
again, I don't want to live my days here ignoring you. And I
definitively don't want to live the rest of my life wondering how things
might have turned out."
"So... how do we do this?" she asked, "Do we go on a date and all
that?"
"Sounds like a reasonable first step." The time traveler stated,
"Is that okay with you?"
"Yes. Yes, I think it is."
"Would you like to go and grab something to eat now?"
"Now?" she asked a little surprised, "I... well... I look horrible
right now. I..."
"Mako-chan..."
"I mean, this is our first date." She went on, not listening to him,
"I should put on something nice."
"Mako-chan..."
"And my hair is a mess too." She added, still immersed in her own
preoccupations, "Maybe I should go and get a hair cut, and I need some makeup
too, and a shower, brush my teeth, and..."
"Mako-chan." He insisted one more time, this time getting the
attention he was looking for.
"Yes?" she asked shyly.
"You look great right now." He explained, "You'd look great even in
a paper bag. Really."
"I... I..." she babbled as her cheeks turned red, "But what about
taking it one step at a time?"
"Don't worry. This way it's more... natural." He explained,
"Besides... I really need to eat something now. I haven't had anything for
two days, remember?"
Her eyes widen for a second, then her gaze soften and her lips curved
into a smile. A smile that time didn't erase from Trunks' memory, for it was
one of the most beautiful things he ever saw. Maybe not everything had
changed after all.
"Okay then." She began, "Let's fill that stomach of yours. I know
a good place we can go to."
She grabbed her purse and Trunks opened the door for her. Yes...
taking it one step at a time would be good for now. Maybe later things
could return to the way they were. Both thunder Senshi and Saiyajin warrior
hoped so. But for now, they wouldn't rush things. They still had a lot of
catching up to do. And yet, even if Trunks' time in this world was limited,
right now he felt as if he had all the time in the world.
End of chapter 13.
END OF FIRST SEASON!!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Author's notes:
::Julian opens a bottle of Champaign::
I assume this last part was the one most readers were waiting for. To be
quite honest, I was looking forward to write it as well (even if it turned
out a little shorter than I expected it). So, as you can see, the first
season of the fanfic is concluded, but not to worry, this doesn't mean it's
then end of the story (otherwise there would be several unsatisfied readers
chasing after me). So expect more action, more drama, more humor from this
point on.
And now let's go to some Question/answers.
How did you come up with this?
Mostly due to the people who read "Boy meets Girls" and wanted more. Their
suggestions didn't go unnoticed and in some dark corner of my mind, my
subconscious began collecting ideas in order to make a sequel. The idea
grew so much that I just had to write it down. You'll forgive the lack of
modesty, but I believe that PPU is coming out a lot better than BMG so far,
although there might be some who'll disagree with me on this.
First season is over, is this going to be one of those never ending stories?
I really hope not. I have to admit that my initial PPU project was rather
big. There was simply so much I wanted to write, but seeing how long it took
me to get to the end of this first season, I'm seriously reconsidering my
options. I first planned making three seasons, but if I do that, I'll more
likely die of old age first. Right now I'm analyzing the upcoming events in
PPU in order to take out some stuff. I plan to make just one more season,
but I still have to see how I readjust all of my ideas. Some things will
unfortunately go, but I still plan to make it all worth while.
Are you a sadist by making Trunks and Makoto suffer so much?
No. Actually, I consider myself a sadist regardless of the suffering I put
Trunks and Makoto through. =P
Sure, I could've done this a lot simpler by making Trunks show up in front
of the Senshi from the very beginning, making Makoto jump into his arms at
that precise second and then make them live happily ever after. But you know
what? That would've been dull, boring, cliché, and most of all, completely
lame. Do you really thought that I was going to make this relationship so
superficial? I mean, Com'on! It's never that easy and considering that the
two of them spent a considerable number of years going through some changes,
it was perfect so I could insert some doubt and complications in their
relationship. Besides, I'm willing to bet that those complications made the
story more interesting to read than a five minutes instant relationship.
What about the villains?
I feel particularly proud of my cast of villains. Especially Eron and Arlakk.
One of my main objectives for this fic was to create better villains than
BMG (which were basically living punching bags so the heroes could show off).
I was looking for something more dynamic. A group of villains which were
organized, smart, witty, cunning and most of all, that wouldn't make things
easy for our heroes.
The second trouble was creating a group that could be a match for the Sailor
Senshi and Trunks. Given the astronomic power difference between these two
groups, that wasn't easy. So, that's why I made the Masters of Tomorrow so
different from one another in order to cover as much ground as possible.
Personally, I feel satisfied with this bunch of evil doers I came up with.
You said this fic would also feature Ranma ½, but so far that cast is mostly
used as background. Will that change?
I really hope so. The Ranma cast hasn't been getting a lot of time on the
spotlight during this first season, but as you can see, I'm changing that
with Ranma's new involvement in the situation. Some other Ranma ½ characters
will also follow, but don't expect them to become this fic's main attraction.
This story is still mainly DBZ/SM, the Ranma ½ cast will have an important
role, but they won't become the center of all things (sorry, Ranma fans).
None the less, I'm not putting them here just so I can fill out some empty
space, that's for sure. You'll just have to wait and see what I have in
store for them.
What should we expect for the next season?
I plan to make things a little different than I did for BMG, that you
already know. One of those things is that I plan to switch the spotlight
constantly. In BMG, everything turned around Trunks and Makoto. But this
time, I plan to focus on other characters as well. As you already saw, I
did that on Rei Hino for some considerable time at the beginning of the
story and other characters will follow as well (even the villains for that
matters). Heck, there might be even some chapters where Trunks and Makoto
don't even show up. Although I'm still keeping them as "hottest couple of
the fic".
About those "other" BMG side stories you've been promising?
Well, the only BMG sidestory that will be out is titled "Total Kaos" and is
being written by my friend Black Wolf X. It'll be ready when he says so.
There was a time when I hoped to write other side stories, but as you can
see, I'm short on time, so I've abandoned that project. However, I have been
getting some e-mails of people who are interested in writing side stories...
although I don't get to hear from them a second time once I let them know
the specifications for a sidestory (I guess I scared them away =P). In any
case, if one of you folks wishes to write a BMG side story according to your
own personal rules, you're quite free to do so. But if you want the
"Soullard seal of approval", and therefore get your stories posted on my
page, you have to follow these simple rules:
1) You mustn't alter the BMG or PPU continuity. In other words:
don't write a sequel based on something that didn't happened.
Examples: a passionate love affair between Trunks and Minako behind
Makoto's back during BMG, or the appearance of another DBZ character
during or after BMG, because none of those things happened.
2) Spell check, people. Please... I'm begging on my knees here...
3) The sidestory must be of the same "flavor" BMG and PPU are.
Meaning: No lemons.
4) Mustn't alter any future developments in PPU. In order to avoid
this, send me a broad idea of what you're planning to write. If it
fits, then you have my blessing. If it doesn't fit, then we'll
probably have to discuss a few changes. Be sure to send me a draft
or your idea of a sidestory via e-mail first so we can talk before
you get to work fully on the project.
5) I have to like the idea. Yeah, I know, I probably sound like a
real jerk right now, but please keep in mind that if the sidestory
hampers more helps the story line, it won't be approved. A good
example of this would be the appearance of Trunks'
unknown-till-this-day twin brother or something really far fetched.
Try to keep it simple. It's a sidestory, not a saga.
To give an example, here's something you guys can work with. I once
planned to write a few short stories which took place between BMG and PPU,
describing the relationship the Sailor Senshi have had with the Ranma ½ cast
during the past three years. How did Makoto and Ukyou became such good
friends? Why does Haruka dislikes Ranma so much? How did Ami and Ryouga got
to know each other and become friends? Did Ranma and Co went through an
adventure with the Senshi during that time? Did they met the Sailor Star
Lights? As you can see there's a lot to work with and you can use that if
you feel like it.
When will you start with the next season?
When I figure out how to readjust all of my ideas, but more importantly,
when I have the time. Remember that fanfic writing is just a hobby for me.
That means that I have several obligations which come first (not to mention
other hobbies as well). I have a life after all.
So, without further ado, see you in chapter 14... and the second season...
"Past, Present and Uncertainty."
By Julian Soullard (e-mail: [email protected])
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 13:
Decision making process: Second predicament
His first thought was that the stairs in front of him led to Hikawa
Shrine, but when he went up, he realized that he had arrived at an entirely
different temple. More or less the same size than Rei's, although it looked
a little older. Actually... the word 'darker' seemed more fitting for its
description. The place itself wasn't really ugly or evil looking, but
something in the air made it all feel apprehensive. Almost as if something
bad had happened here.
How exactly did he get here in the first place?
Trunks didn't know, but something deep within told him to enter the
temple and clear his doubts. Once he opened the doors he discovered no one
inside. There was an altar at the end of the room with some burning incense
escorting its sides. When the Saiyajin hybrid approached it, the familiar
name which written in it echoed through his heart.
Kino...
Not the Kino he knew. The picture of a middle age couple placed at
the center of the altar clearly proved that Makoto wasn't the one who had
passed away. Trunks felt a sudden relief after figuring that out, but then
began to analyze the picture some more.
Kino... could this couple be Makoto's...
The unexpected sound of tears interrupted that line of thought. It
was coming from behind the altar. Trunks slowly peeked from above, careful
not to startle whoever was the cause of such sorrow.
A little girl, no more than eight years old was sitting in a fetal
position, her back pressed against the altar and face buried between her
knees. Apparently, she didn't notice when Trunks entered the temple or
approached her.
"Hey, kid. Are you okay?" he asked, only to realize seconds later
how stupid that question sounded. Of course she wasn't okay! Otherwise
she wouldn't be crying.
The girl lifted her tear flooded eyes to meet his own. Trunks' heart
jumped. That was Makoto. Younger, no doubt about it, but it was definitively
her.
"What am I going to do now?" the girl manage to ask, "I'm all alone."
Regardless of being someone not too open to physical contact, at
least not in this sort of way, Trunks tried to comfort the younger version
of his ex-girlfriend by taking her between his arms. Makoto offered no
resistance at all, actually, the strong grip of her hands on his jacket
showed that she needed that kind of gesture right now.
"I miss them..."
"I know." he replied.
**********
Things had turned out all right fortunately. Makoto was no one to
differ on that. Even though Trunk's body had been stolen, her friends had
done a great job in recovering it. And the sacrifice she had perform in
order to keep his Sphere in a safe place had worked as well without causing
her nothing far more serious than just momentary pain.
However, two days had passed since Trunk's Essence Sphere had been
returned to his body and the hybrid still remained asleep. What if he never
woke up? By taking the Sphere inside of her could she had in some way
altered it? No. Ami told her that Trunks' Essence Sphere just needed time
to readjust to its old environment. So, until that happened, he would be
staying as a guest in Makoto's apartment.
[Talk about ironic...] she thought.
So, what would happen next? What would happen once he'd wake up?
Would things change? Would things get worse?
She wasn't sure what to think anymore. Things had turned so
confusing between the two of them. So many things, so little time in which
they occurred. Nothing seemed clear anymore. Even in her own head there was
a big debate going on between most of Makoto's emotions.
She wanted to be with Trunks again. Back to the way they were three
years ago... or eight... whatever... But she was scared too. What if Trunks
didn't feel the same for her anymore? Things seemed to be that way since he
decided to remain distant. But he saved her, didn't he? So... what did that
mean? How should she see all that has been happening? And besides, could
this be a long term relationship? Would he leave again?
Makoto scrubbed the kitchen table for the hundred time already. All
these emotions fighting against each other had her so tense that she needed
something to do in order to keep busy.
With a heavy sigh, she took a seat and brought her hands to her
forehead, as if it could somehow help to put some order in her mind. When
the doorbell rang, she jolted up, startled. Once she regained her composure,
she went to open. Rei and Hotaru were on the other side.
"Hi, Mako-chan!" Hotaru declared joyfully. Rei on the other hand
just waved and forced a small smile.
That was another thing that needed closure. This long lasting anger
the brunette felt towards the Shinto priestess had to be solved too. She
gestured them to come inside.
"Is Trunks-san awake?" the little purple eye girl asked rather
forwardly.
"I'm afraid not, Hotaru-chan." she told her.
"Oh..." she said a little sad, but then switched back to happy mode,
"Well, it's okay. I'm sure he'll wake up soon. You'll see."
"Yes... I know he will." Makoto declared confidently, "So, what
brings you two here?"
"We bumped into each other on our way here." Rei answered.
"Actually, I was heading home. I just tagged along to see if I'd
catch Trunks-san awake." Hotaru informed. "But in any case, I guess I should
be leaving now. I just wanted to see if everything was all right."
"Okay, thanks for the visit, Hotaru-chan." the brunette stated,
"I'll let you know the second he's awake and tell him you came to visit."
"Okay, bye then."
"Bye."
The door closed and now there was only the two of them left. Well...
three if you counted Trunks, but right now he wasn't awake in order to be
part of the upcoming discussion.
"I brought Trunks some clothes." Rei began, as she showed her host
a plastic bag, "I thought he might need them once he wakes up."
"His clothes? How did you get inside his apartment?"
"I... know where he hides his spare key." she answered somewhat
uncomfortable.
"Oh..."
That was the kind of 'Oh' people don't like to hear. It may not
seem like much, but given the right tone and strength, a simple 'Oh' can
say a lot of things. In this particular case, it didn't show any signs of
happiness. More like jealousy and reproach instead. Rei decided to clear
things out before it became too late.
"Mako-chan..." she began, "Nothing happened between Trunks and I,
if that's what worries you."
"I know nothing happened." the brunette told her, "I know you too
well. And that's not what bothers me."
"Then what is it?" she asked, "You've barely even spoke to me and
when you do it's not to give me any compliments. I know I did wrong by
holding this secret, but you've got to try to put yourself in my shoes."
"Don't you see?" Makoto explained, "Everything has changed
compared to three years ago. Everything. Trunks may have been my boyfriend
in the end, but before that, he was my friend. We were inseparable. He told
me everything. And now look at us. We can't even look at each other... and
I hate that... I hate that everything between us has changed. I hate the
fact that everything is turning out wrong. And... I hate the fact that he
went to you for help instead of me. I know this sounds stupid, but I can't
help feeling this whenever I remember that not only I lost the man I loved,
but a friend as well."
"It doesn't sound stupid, Mako-chan." the priestess pointed out, "I
only wished that things would've turned out okay since it all started. But
you know what?.. I think this may be a good time for you two to straight
things out."
"I know... but I'm scared." she declared, "What if things get even
worse?"
"Don't worry. I'm sure things will turn out for the best." Rei
encouraged, "I can't speak for Trunks, since I'm not him, but I'm sure he's
as worried about this than you are. And I'm sure he wants to solve this too.
It's just a matter of talking to him."
"Yeah... I guess you're right... thanks."
"So... are we okay now?"
"Sure... sorry for giving you such a rough time these last few
days." Makoto apologized, "Can you forgive me?"
"Sure I can." she stated with a smile, "It comes with the territory.
Forgive and forget."
"By the way, is that why you brought Hotaru with you?"
"Well... yeah... Partially at least. She was worried about Trunks
though, but I could've used someone who you wouldn't slam the door in front
of their noses next to me in case you were still angry."
"Smart move." she chuckled, "If she hadn't been with you, I probably
would have done that."
**********
Ranma was taking deep breaths while he pressed his back against a
wall. A beam of light, coming from outside the building passed next to him,
trying to reveal his presence. The martial artist held his breath. After a
couple of seconds that felt like hours, he could hear the sound of his
hunters leaving somewhere else, probably to keep looking for him. Ranma
resumed breathing.
It really did feel as if the entire city was out to get him. He'd
been so concentrated in not getting caught that he didn't even get the
chance to think on what would he do to get out of this mess. Now seemed a
time as good as any to ponder on that.
Maybe he could find another one of those portal things to get back
to Earth. Problem was, where to find one and how to make it work. Recent
events proved that the locals wouldn't kindly point him towards the nearest
exit. And there was something else too. The reason he got mixed up in this
mess was because he sought answers about the Masters of Tomorrow. Going
back home sounded like a really good plan, but getting something out of
this trip would be even better. Some sort of information, weapon or
something that could somehow help Trunks and the Senshi to kick these guys
back to where they came from.
Considering that standing still wouldn't get him anywhere, Ranma
decided to inspect the building he was now in. It felt rather odd... he did
remember that there were a lot of robots inside when he first came, but now
the place seemed deserted. Well, it didn't matter. It would make his
investigation a lot easier if he didn't had to hide from the building's
staff.
Much like the first building he visited, this place seemed like the
wet dream of any Sci-Fi fan. The place was huge and appeared to be some sort
of fully automated factory. Just the place to find something juicy, Ranma
thought.
After walking through the corridors for a while, the new Son Goku
ended up inside the main building area. His eyes kept on going up as he
witnessed the colossal space ship in front of him. He couldn't tell from
where he stood, but that thing seemed bigger than all of Nerima, and it's
black color gave it a certain death seeking demeanor. That and the really
big plasma canons it had, of course. More impressive was the fact that there
wasn't just one space ship, but an entire fleet. Although the first one was
by far the biggest ship of all.
"Oh, man..." he said, "With this kind of firepower they can take
the entire Earth in no time. But why haven't they done so already?"
A few computers were set not too far away from the ships. Ranma went
to them to see if he could find out something useful. Even though computers
weren't his specialty, you didn't need a degree in programming to see the
contents on the screen.
[Project Dark Snowfall?] he inquired as he raised an eyebrow,
[What's this all about?]
He tried to make as much sense as possible out of the diagrams and
data he found, but an unexpected guest interrupted his research. Ranma
didn't sense him, nor hear him, and if it weren't for his reflection on the
computer screen he was looking, he wouldn't have known either. And more
importantly, he wouldn't have been able to move out of the way as the
stranger's huge fist came on to him, crashing against the computer instead
of the intruder.
The martial artist flipped his way out of reach. Now he could see
his adversary properly. He was big... quite big. And strong too. Bald,
square jaw, and dark eyes that showed no emotions. His uniform consisted of
a complete black and tight clothing, similar to the one some of the Masters
of Tomorrow wore.
The man's cold stare turned towards him.
"I'm just taking a wild guess here, but you're not the janitor, are
you?" Ranma joked, but his opponent didn't brake a smile and decided to
attack instead.
Faster than Ranma had anticipated. The man's muscular body didn't
hamper any of his moves. Regardless of being rather fast himself, the new
Son Goku had been forced to remain at the defensive. Each blow whistled next
to him, but that was just the beginning. If things didn't change soon, he'd
be in trouble.
An opening. Ranma didn't waste this opportunity and send his fist
right against the man's side. A 'crunch' noise came out as the martial
artist's hand broke once it hit. Ranma quickly draw back, clutching his
fingers in pain.
Now it was him who left an opening and the big man took advantage
of it, getting a more satisfying result than his opponent. The strength of
the blow had no peers in Ranma's mental fighting archive, which was rather
big. He was sent flying backwards once hit, braking through a wall and
falling on his back surrounded by rocky debris. The pain he felt in his hand
had now gown along his arm. Probably broken now as well.
"Okay... you asked for it, light bulb head!" he declared as he
painfully got to his feet and extended his still functional arm, "Eat this!!
Mokuo Takabisha!!"
He didn't even move when the blast approached him. His sensors
informed that his external armor could take the hit without a problem
instead of wasting energy to raise a shield. There was a bit of an uproar
once the blast connected, making some pavement to crack and dust to lift,
but other than that, the android was completely unharmed.
Once the dust clear off, the intruder had disappeared.
"Computer." the man said out loud, "This is Jarek. Pin point current
intruder location."
"Intruder located in sector S-3." spoke a robotic voice coming from
the roof, "Authorization to initiate security lock up sequence."
"Affirmative."
Ranma flew with all of his remaining strength. With only one arm he
knew he wouldn't be able to put much of a fight. Time to blow this joint.
The means to do it would be interesting to know, though.
The sound of heavy iron doors slamming shut approached him from
behind. The martial artist made a quick turn into the first room he found
before getting trapped in the hallway. The last door closed seconds before
he entered what appeared to be a small control room.
[Okay, Ranma... how are you going to pull yourself out of this one
now?] he thought.
[Go to the control panel.] said a second voice in his head.
"What?? Who's that??" he asked jolting up.
[Do not be worried. I'm on your side.] said the voice, [My name is
Sailor Pluto.]
"A Sailor Senshi?" he asked, "Here? Where are you? How are you doing
this?"
[That's not important right now.] Pluto clear out, [You have little
time before they come looking for you. Go to the control panel so you can
use one of the portals.]
"Do you know how to make these things work?"
[In a broad sense, yes.] she explained, [As a Guardian of Time I'm
able to sense probability which can affect the future. In this case, I can
use these powers to determine the code which will open a portal. I just need
some time.]
"And why are you doing this exactly?"
[I need you to come where I'm being held prisoner.]
"You scratch my back and I scratch yours." Ranma considered, "Sounds
fair enough."
The silence in the room was suddenly interrupted by a low, almost
indistinguishable, sound. Like the hissing sound of a snake. Ranma took his
eyes upwards and saw in horror how a pink gas of some sort made its way
inside the room through the ventilation shafts.
"Er.. Pluto..." he began, "I don't mean to rush you, but could you
hurry? They're pumping some sort of gas into the room... and I don't think
it's perfume."
[I'm almost done. Press the following code.]
Ranma followed every instruction sent through the mind link he had
with the captive Senshi and pressed the according buttons with typewriting
accuracy with his only arm that could do the job. The gas also worked
hurriedly in filling the room.
With a last push of a button, a swirling void of purple light formed
in front of the martial artist's eyes. Ranma took a dive in without thinking
it twice.
**********
His eyes met an unfamiliar ceiling once they opened and adjusted to
the light. It took a few seconds for Trunks to shake out the confusion out
of his head. He just woke up and felt the world's biggest hangover, which
suggested to make slow and easy moves for the time being.
He was in a bed.
Bed? This wasn't his bed. How did he get here? And... this room...
this wasn't his room either. It was too... girlish. The Saiyajin hybrid
blinked a few times, trying to put some order in his mind. How did he get
here? He tried to take a few steps back in time to explain his current
situation, but there seemed to be a gap in his memories. He was talking to
Eron and then... then... Hey, wait a minute, where did his clothes go?!
Trunks took a look under his sheets and his eyes widen. That wasn't his
underwear!! Heck, that couldn't even be considered as underwear!!
Now he was officially worried. And he became even more worried when
he realized that he remembered this room. This was Makoto's apartment.
[Oh my God...] he thought.
He just woke up, naked, with no clear memories of what happened.
[Oh... my... God...]
Not to mention that he woke up naked in a girl's bed and with a big
hangover.
[Oh... my... GOD!!]
And that girl just happened to be Makoto Kino.
[OH MY GHAAAWWWWWWWWDDDDD!!!]
Yes... Trunks was now officially worried. Because, when you lack
information, your imagination tends to fill in the gaps. And given the
circumstances, Trunks' imagination took some interesting assumptions.
[Did we... I mean... did I... and her... did we...] he tried to
explain.
He took a deep breath. He had to think this straight. Okay... what
did he knew? Last thing he remembered was talking to Eron, or making him
talk actually, in order to find out what were his plans. Then, the Senshi
appeared. Some Raiders showed up as well as a welcome committee. Then came
the fight, but Trunks didn't take his eyes away from Eron. He did remember
that Eternal Sailor Moon accidentally discovered the Masters' of Tomorrow
hideout and the Outer Senshi went towards it. Then Eron started teasing him
and... and he sent a blast from his ring towards Makoto. Yes! That's what
happened! He ran like crazy to get her out of the way, but... but... what
happened then?
[Oh, no! Is she all right?]
He quickly got out of bed but clumsily fell to the ground. He still
felt disorientated and a little weak. Not to mention very naked. However,
regardless of that, he grabbed the bed's sheets to cover himself the best he
could and went for the door. His hand was inches away from the doorknob when
Makoto on the other side opened it instead, probably concerned from the
noise Trunks made when he fell. She felt startled to find him so close to
her... physically speaking of course, and Trunks felt the same way. You
could see it in their faces.
"Are you all right?" was the first thing Trunks said.
"Er... yes.. of course..." she responded a little confused, "How...
are you doing?"
"I... I... don't know." he confessed, still disorientated, "What...
what happened? I remember a fight, but then..."
"Here, sit down." she told him, as she guided him next to a chair,
"You've been out for two days, your body must be feeling weak."
"Two days? I've been sleeping for two days? Why... why did I slept
for two days?"
"You don't remember what happened?"
"I... remember Eron shooting at you, but then... I don't know..." he
explained, "It's all weird. It's as if I've been living in someone else's
memories. Like some weird dream."
Makoto's eyes showed a brief moment of surprise. That was exactly
the way she felt when she took his Essence Sphere inside her body, with the
only difference that she had been conscious, more or less, through out the
entire dream sequence. Could this be some sort of collateral effect?
"You put yourself in front of me and took the blast." she pointed
out, not without some degree of shyness, "Your Essence Sphere was taken out
of your body."
"What?" he asked confused.
The girl explained exactly how everything happened, filling in the
blanks from what the other girls told her while she guarded Trunks' Sphere.
Her guest still looked dazed with such revelation. Especially when learning
the sacrifice she did for him. Nevertheless, he avoided eye contact with her
in every occasion, but paid close attention to the story.
Once Makoto finished her recital, a short paused followed. Now that
they had gone through all of the 'professional' stuff, there was only a more
personal matter left to be discussed, and bringing the first words seemed to
be the main problem.
"Makoto... I..." Trunks began, "I'd like to thank you for what you
did."
"It's okay." she answered, trying to look calm with the subject,
"You saved me, so I guess it was the least I could do in return."
"Yes... well thanks anyway. That and for letting me stay here till
I recovered."
"It's no problem at all, really." she declared, "Are you feeling
better? I began to worry that maybe I might have done something to your
Essence Sphere by... well... you know..."
"I... guess I'm okay. I just feel a little woozy, but nothing
serious." he reassured her, "By the way... Do you think I could use your
shower? I think I need one after two days of constant sleep."
"Oh, sure, sure. Help yourself. Rei brought you some clothes, by the
way."
Looks like that talk she'd been waiting would have to wait a little
more after all.
**********
The Lord's tower was the source of horrible painful screams.
Everyone in Dominia knew that Kyristan could forgive, but there were some
errors that not even he could allow to go unpunished.
Eron and Arlakk were floating in mid air, engulfed in a purple
inferno. This being the reward for losing Saiya-man's Essence Sphere. They
wouldn't die, that was certain, for their Lord still needed them, but the
pain and suffering Kyristan put them through was by far worse than a simple
death. And a lot slower too.
The two servants crashed against the floor once their master had
considered that the punishment had been enough. The dark flames disappeared
as fast as they first came, leaving only painful souvenirs in the two
Masters of Tomorrow. Slowly, the sorcerer and the scientist got up. Sorine,
who had just stood there and watch, didn't even considered helping them out.
"Needless to say that I'm very disappointed in the two of you."
Kyristan declared, "It appears you're not taking this mission seriously
enough."
The two servants remained silent in a bowing position. What could
they actually say to defend themselves? Failure was not an excuse anymore.
Kyristan got up from his throne, his huge frame forming a shadow on top of
the three Masters of Tomorrow.
"So... let's review the situation." he began, "We have no Outpost,
no Essence Sphere, a new defender against us, plus an intruder who found a
way to enter my world. This does not bode well. Now... could someone please
give me some good news?"
"Security shall be tighten even more, my Lord." Sorine began, "We
assume the intruder entered Dominia through one of the Outpost's portals.
To prevent this from happening again, we are currently using new 'one-way'
portals. We shall also prepare a new Outpost with out-most discretion to
keep the defenders uninformed of our activities."
"And what about today's intruder?"
"The intruder had been identified as the former identity of Super
Saiya-man: Son Goku." the android explained, "However, according to the data
I collected from the Sentries' memory banks during the fight, this
particular Son Goku is significantly weaker than the original and uses a
different fighting style during battle. It is clear that he is an impostor."
"Impostor or not, he got into Dominia. And I don't like that."
Kyristan noted, "What happened once he entered your facilities, Sorine?"
"I decided to evacuate all the staff and send in Jarek to deal with
the intruder." she explained.
"But he got away."
"Correct. The intruder used a portal to escape. The means he used
to activate the portal are still unexplained to us. Only I know the codes
to activate those in my research center."
"Our intruder received some external help." Kyristan pointed out,
"I underestimated Sailor Pluto's powers. Even when I imprisoned her, she
managed to assist our visitor. Her presence from the Gates of Time has
disappeared now. It is now obvious that she led this new Son Goku to her in
order to free her."
"We can still go after them." Sorine declared, "I can personally
supervise the mission this time. Knowing this Son Goku's powers, it shall
not be difficult for me to overpower him."
"Forget about them." her lord said, "Given her actual state, Sailor
Pluto won't offer much trouble. Both of them are now probably lost in the
streams of time. More importantly, I'd like to know more about this new
defender."
Kyristan directed his flaming eyes towards Arlakk. This was gesture
enough for the sorcerer to know that he had permission to speak. He got up.
"This girl who calls herself Sailor Saturn is by far the strongest
Senshi among the eight we've fought." he informed, "She is second to Super
Saiya-man when it comes to energy blasts and her protection techniques are
quite strong as well. Even my strongest magical blast gave inconclusive
results during our short match. I plan to put her mind power to the test in
future encounters. However, I believe that she might not show up often."
"Yes... It's painfully obvious that the defenders know we were
studying them and were saving their strongest cards till the nick of time."
Kyristan commented, "Both Eron and you were lucky to come out alive."
"Yes... we were." Arlakk validated, "However, I'm already
considering several possible spells that will result a lot more effective
if I meet her again."
"And what about Saiya-man, Eron?" the Lord asked, "What do *you*
have to report?"
This was getting a little intense for the scientist's stress level.
Two lectures in the same day with big probabilities of ending is something
fatal for his health.
"The defenders showed up without the Essence Sphere at the meeting."
he began, "I guess their behavior is a lot more risky than I first though.
Considering that, Arlakk tried to neutralize them with some help from his
lesser demons so we could get their Spheres instead. We had everything under
control until those Outer Senshi, Saturn among them, showed up. Saturn kept
us busy while the rest went for Saiya-man's body. It all came in the end
with a big bang... literally."
"Is that all you have to say of your failure?"
He was getting special attention, although not the one he liked the
most. If he didn't share any good news soon, Lord Kyristan might consider
taking him out of the mission permanently... and in a very unpleasant manner.
Fortunately, the scientist didn't bring just bad news. Out of the pocket of
his robe, he pulled out a small flask containing a strange liquid.
"Actually, there's something more." he went on, "The moment
Saiya-man's Sphere was taken out, I couldn't help to notice that his power
had vanished. If that power had been granted to him by some exterior force,
I assumed he would've kept his 'form', shall we call it, regardless of being
unconscious. This made me believe that his power came from him. Or more
exactly, from what he is."
"Explain yourself, Eron."
"Yes, my Lord." Eron continued, "In other words, I think Saiya-man
belongs to another dimension entirely and that his power can be studied if
we analyze his genes. I took the liberty of taking blood and tissue samples
out of his body while he was our guest in Dominia. My staff is already
studying the samples."
Kyristan couldn't hide a smirk on his face.
"You plan to use his genes as a new weapon?" he asked, although it
seemed more like a statement, "You want to use his genes with your DNA
assimilation technique in order to have his exact powers?"
"Yes, my Lord." the scientist confirmed, "If my theory is correct,
I will be able to copy his exact strength, speed, stamina and special
abilities."
"Very well, it seems that this battle didn't turned out as a
complete waste after all." the master of Dominia declared, "It looks like we
have a busy schedule ahead of us. Listen to my words, for this is what I
command. Sorine, I want you to supervise the construction of our new Outpost
with all the precautions that are needed. Arlakk, finding Sailor Saturn's
weakness is now your priority. Do all the research you need, use all the
spells you consider helpful, send Delif into battle if it's of any use, but
see to it that this girl's Essence Sphere will eventually be in my hands
along with the others. You are still in charge of the mission for the time
being. Eron, proceed with your investigation on Saiya-man's DNA. I'll be
expecting a full report of your progress every five days."
The three servants bowed in acknowledgment. After that, all where
dismissed and sent back to their operation centers where they hastily
started working on their new orders. Kyristan took a seat back in his throne
and gestured the dome to open up, revealing Dominia in all its splendor. His
fiery gaze traveled through all of his domain.
"Try to rest now, defenders." he said, "Rest now, while we
reorganize our strategy. Because once we're settled, you'll never get to
rest again."
**********
The water stopped pouring once Trunks turned off the faucets. The
last of his black hair dye he'd been wearing dripped down the drain.
Whatever substance Eron had him inside that tank seemed to dilute his
'not-much-of-a-disguise', giving his hair its original purple color. But
then again, there wasn't a reason to keep his disguise now that the girls
knew about him, was there?
[So now what?] he thought as he looked at himself in the mirror,
[What are you suppose to do now, Trunks?]
The storm had passed but not all problems were solved. His biggest
problem so far remained: What was going to happen with Makoto Kino? He
couldn't just say thanks and leave. He had to solve this now. He should've
done it since the first day he got here.
"But you couldn't face her then, could you?" he whispered, "You
were too scared of what could happen that you prefer hiding behind a mask
instead. You coward."
Losing a loved one was the hardest thing Trunks had to go through.
Either because of death or by departure. And now that he gave it some
thought about it, it also explained a lot of things. He feared hurting
Makoto again, but he feared hurting himself as well. If he fell in love one
more time, he wouldn't be able to bare the pain of losing her yet a second
time when his time in this dimension would be up.
But that didn't matter anymore. He just couldn't go on living with
that kind of fear. He'd been doing that for far too long now, and that's why
his previous relationships didn't work out. It was because of him. Because
he didn't want them to work. If he broke a relationship, then it was because
he wanted it to, not because fate had taken an unilateral decision against
him like in the old days.
"But you can't keep this up." he said, "Some prince of Saiyajin
*you* turned out to be. Fleeing and turning your back when this is the girl
who have brought you happiness."
He took one last stare into the mirror. Maybe it wasn't too late to
try to fix this. God knows what would happen from this point on, but he
wouldn't run away from it any more.
The door to the bathroom opened and Trunks came out fully dressed.
Makoto was spotted near the kitchen. She just hung up the phone.
"I just told the girls you're all right." she explained.
"Okay."
"By the way, there's this too." she pointed out, as she took out a
wrist watch out of her pocket, "Rei managed to save this during the battle.
I think it's where you keep your suite, although you don't have one right
now, so there's only your clothes, which you already have and... [Great now
I'm babbling like an idiot!]"
"Thank you." Trunks said, as he reached into her hand. They could
both feel a warm sensation sliding between their fingers, "Makoto..."
"Yes..."
"I... I think I owe you an apology." the hybrid began, "Things
have... well... been rather difficult because of me in these last few days."
"[That's a way to put it...] Yes, well... there has been a lot of
things going on."
"I really should've done this earlier." he said ashamed, "I guess I
didn't knew how to deal with it, but I'd like to try and talk about it
now... if you want to, that is."
"Yes. I want to." she stated with butterflies in her stomach. She
was also showing a remarkable interest at looking at her own shoes.
"Okay... here goes..." Trunks declared as he took a deep breath,
"The reason I've been acting the way I have is because... well... I didn't
knew how to face the situation, and more importantly, I didn't knew how to
face you because of our... past. I guess that... well... if I remained
invisible to your eye, I thought I might have pulled this off without
causing much of a big deal."
"Yes... I guessed as much."
"And... I... well... I don't know exactly how to say this... I'm
not really good at saying stuff like this."
"I... understand." Makoto interrupted, "It's been very confusing
for me too. All these feelings coming at the same time..."
"That's what I'm talking about." Trunks went on, "I... I think I
still have... feelings for you. I... I know this isn't right... for you
or for me, since I won't stay here long, but..."
"I... think I still have feelings for you too." she added, and
her visitor couldn't help to look surprise, "I know this sounds stupid.
We've both changed since the last time you were here. But still... I
can't just pretend that these feelings don't exist. But I... I... I
don't..."
Confusion reigned supreme in this conversation. It was obvious
that both individuals were still attracted to each other. However, the
mere thought of ending up broken hearted like last time sent some
unwanted disturbance into their souls. Trunks tentatively approached his
hand towards her shoulder, hoping not to scare her. It felt as a strange
relief once he touched her.
"Makoto... I... I'm sorry. Hurting you was the first thing I
wanted to avoid, and it ended up being the first thing I did." he
continued, "Listen... I... I don't know how the future will come out, I
don't know how long will I stay or how all of this craziness will end...
but... still... I'd like to try to work this out. At least try to make
it work."
"I... yes..." Makoto declared honestly, yet fearful as
well, "I want to find out as well ."
"Then let's take this one step at a time." he suggested, and
she gently lifted her gaze to meet his, "If this is the right thing for
us, then let's do it. Makot... Mako-chan... even if I'm destined to leave
again, I don't want to live my days here ignoring you. And I
definitively don't want to live the rest of my life wondering how things
might have turned out."
"So... how do we do this?" she asked, "Do we go on a date and all
that?"
"Sounds like a reasonable first step." The time traveler stated,
"Is that okay with you?"
"Yes. Yes, I think it is."
"Would you like to go and grab something to eat now?"
"Now?" she asked a little surprised, "I... well... I look horrible
right now. I..."
"Mako-chan..."
"I mean, this is our first date." She went on, not listening to him,
"I should put on something nice."
"Mako-chan..."
"And my hair is a mess too." She added, still immersed in her own
preoccupations, "Maybe I should go and get a hair cut, and I need some makeup
too, and a shower, brush my teeth, and..."
"Mako-chan." He insisted one more time, this time getting the
attention he was looking for.
"Yes?" she asked shyly.
"You look great right now." He explained, "You'd look great even in
a paper bag. Really."
"I... I..." she babbled as her cheeks turned red, "But what about
taking it one step at a time?"
"Don't worry. This way it's more... natural." He explained,
"Besides... I really need to eat something now. I haven't had anything for
two days, remember?"
Her eyes widen for a second, then her gaze soften and her lips curved
into a smile. A smile that time didn't erase from Trunks' memory, for it was
one of the most beautiful things he ever saw. Maybe not everything had
changed after all.
"Okay then." She began, "Let's fill that stomach of yours. I know
a good place we can go to."
She grabbed her purse and Trunks opened the door for her. Yes...
taking it one step at a time would be good for now. Maybe later things
could return to the way they were. Both thunder Senshi and Saiyajin warrior
hoped so. But for now, they wouldn't rush things. They still had a lot of
catching up to do. And yet, even if Trunks' time in this world was limited,
right now he felt as if he had all the time in the world.
End of chapter 13.
END OF FIRST SEASON!!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Author's notes:
::Julian opens a bottle of Champaign::
I assume this last part was the one most readers were waiting for. To be
quite honest, I was looking forward to write it as well (even if it turned
out a little shorter than I expected it). So, as you can see, the first
season of the fanfic is concluded, but not to worry, this doesn't mean it's
then end of the story (otherwise there would be several unsatisfied readers
chasing after me). So expect more action, more drama, more humor from this
point on.
And now let's go to some Question/answers.
How did you come up with this?
Mostly due to the people who read "Boy meets Girls" and wanted more. Their
suggestions didn't go unnoticed and in some dark corner of my mind, my
subconscious began collecting ideas in order to make a sequel. The idea
grew so much that I just had to write it down. You'll forgive the lack of
modesty, but I believe that PPU is coming out a lot better than BMG so far,
although there might be some who'll disagree with me on this.
First season is over, is this going to be one of those never ending stories?
I really hope not. I have to admit that my initial PPU project was rather
big. There was simply so much I wanted to write, but seeing how long it took
me to get to the end of this first season, I'm seriously reconsidering my
options. I first planned making three seasons, but if I do that, I'll more
likely die of old age first. Right now I'm analyzing the upcoming events in
PPU in order to take out some stuff. I plan to make just one more season,
but I still have to see how I readjust all of my ideas. Some things will
unfortunately go, but I still plan to make it all worth while.
Are you a sadist by making Trunks and Makoto suffer so much?
No. Actually, I consider myself a sadist regardless of the suffering I put
Trunks and Makoto through. =P
Sure, I could've done this a lot simpler by making Trunks show up in front
of the Senshi from the very beginning, making Makoto jump into his arms at
that precise second and then make them live happily ever after. But you know
what? That would've been dull, boring, cliché, and most of all, completely
lame. Do you really thought that I was going to make this relationship so
superficial? I mean, Com'on! It's never that easy and considering that the
two of them spent a considerable number of years going through some changes,
it was perfect so I could insert some doubt and complications in their
relationship. Besides, I'm willing to bet that those complications made the
story more interesting to read than a five minutes instant relationship.
What about the villains?
I feel particularly proud of my cast of villains. Especially Eron and Arlakk.
One of my main objectives for this fic was to create better villains than
BMG (which were basically living punching bags so the heroes could show off).
I was looking for something more dynamic. A group of villains which were
organized, smart, witty, cunning and most of all, that wouldn't make things
easy for our heroes.
The second trouble was creating a group that could be a match for the Sailor
Senshi and Trunks. Given the astronomic power difference between these two
groups, that wasn't easy. So, that's why I made the Masters of Tomorrow so
different from one another in order to cover as much ground as possible.
Personally, I feel satisfied with this bunch of evil doers I came up with.
You said this fic would also feature Ranma ½, but so far that cast is mostly
used as background. Will that change?
I really hope so. The Ranma cast hasn't been getting a lot of time on the
spotlight during this first season, but as you can see, I'm changing that
with Ranma's new involvement in the situation. Some other Ranma ½ characters
will also follow, but don't expect them to become this fic's main attraction.
This story is still mainly DBZ/SM, the Ranma ½ cast will have an important
role, but they won't become the center of all things (sorry, Ranma fans).
None the less, I'm not putting them here just so I can fill out some empty
space, that's for sure. You'll just have to wait and see what I have in
store for them.
What should we expect for the next season?
I plan to make things a little different than I did for BMG, that you
already know. One of those things is that I plan to switch the spotlight
constantly. In BMG, everything turned around Trunks and Makoto. But this
time, I plan to focus on other characters as well. As you already saw, I
did that on Rei Hino for some considerable time at the beginning of the
story and other characters will follow as well (even the villains for that
matters). Heck, there might be even some chapters where Trunks and Makoto
don't even show up. Although I'm still keeping them as "hottest couple of
the fic".
About those "other" BMG side stories you've been promising?
Well, the only BMG sidestory that will be out is titled "Total Kaos" and is
being written by my friend Black Wolf X. It'll be ready when he says so.
There was a time when I hoped to write other side stories, but as you can
see, I'm short on time, so I've abandoned that project. However, I have been
getting some e-mails of people who are interested in writing side stories...
although I don't get to hear from them a second time once I let them know
the specifications for a sidestory (I guess I scared them away =P). In any
case, if one of you folks wishes to write a BMG side story according to your
own personal rules, you're quite free to do so. But if you want the
"Soullard seal of approval", and therefore get your stories posted on my
page, you have to follow these simple rules:
1) You mustn't alter the BMG or PPU continuity. In other words:
don't write a sequel based on something that didn't happened.
Examples: a passionate love affair between Trunks and Minako behind
Makoto's back during BMG, or the appearance of another DBZ character
during or after BMG, because none of those things happened.
2) Spell check, people. Please... I'm begging on my knees here...
3) The sidestory must be of the same "flavor" BMG and PPU are.
Meaning: No lemons.
4) Mustn't alter any future developments in PPU. In order to avoid
this, send me a broad idea of what you're planning to write. If it
fits, then you have my blessing. If it doesn't fit, then we'll
probably have to discuss a few changes. Be sure to send me a draft
or your idea of a sidestory via e-mail first so we can talk before
you get to work fully on the project.
5) I have to like the idea. Yeah, I know, I probably sound like a
real jerk right now, but please keep in mind that if the sidestory
hampers more helps the story line, it won't be approved. A good
example of this would be the appearance of Trunks'
unknown-till-this-day twin brother or something really far fetched.
Try to keep it simple. It's a sidestory, not a saga.
To give an example, here's something you guys can work with. I once
planned to write a few short stories which took place between BMG and PPU,
describing the relationship the Sailor Senshi have had with the Ranma ½ cast
during the past three years. How did Makoto and Ukyou became such good
friends? Why does Haruka dislikes Ranma so much? How did Ami and Ryouga got
to know each other and become friends? Did Ranma and Co went through an
adventure with the Senshi during that time? Did they met the Sailor Star
Lights? As you can see there's a lot to work with and you can use that if
you feel like it.
When will you start with the next season?
When I figure out how to readjust all of my ideas, but more importantly,
when I have the time. Remember that fanfic writing is just a hobby for me.
That means that I have several obligations which come first (not to mention
other hobbies as well). I have a life after all.
So, without further ado, see you in chapter 14... and the second season...