Hunter's Moon

by Ben Harrison

Chapter 1: Introductions

Journal Entry 01

Well I'm finally going to meet my Japanese relatives in person. I've been doing the pen-pal routine with one of them for years, he in English, me in Japanese. He's told me it has improved his grades in English by a great deal. Me, I'm glad to tack another language on. (Actually Mom taught both me and Sami Japanese, it's just that with Yoshiki I get to learn the current slang and such.)

I also asked about some of the strange happenings that have been going on there, mostly tabloid stuff, but there have been a few article in Time and Newsweek. I've taken what they've said with a grain of salt but my cousin says that most of the happenings have been in the Juban district. It's not to far away from where I'll be staying, but so far little has spilled over into other areas of town.

Sorry, I'm writing this for both myself and anyone interested in my thoughts so I best introduce my self. My name full is Toma James Endo-Bradington. Yes it's a mouthful, so I normally go by Tom. My mother is Japanese, a member of a genuine Samurai clan (and wealthy as well!). My father is also from "old money" but unlike a lot of such kids I've been told I'm not spoiled. This I think is because Dad is a career Naval officer (he just picked up full Commander and is being given command of his own battalion). Granted there is still some "officer kids/enlisted kids" stuff but in general I'm pretty cool with everyone.

Now those of you familiar with Navy ranks maybe wondering how a Naval officer commands a battalion, which the Army and Marines use. Well the Navy also has what they call Construction Battalions. They are more commonly known as SeaBee's. That's what my Dad is, a SeaBee (Can Do!! Ha Ha)

Thanks to Dad I've seen a lot of the Pacific (I actually liked Guam), Europe and various US states. However the closest I've been to Japan is Okinawa, when Dad was the Officer in Charge (OIC) of a "Det" there. Mom convinced him to let me spend my Sophomore and maybe my Junior year at a Japanese School. My Uncle has connections so it should be no problem getting admitted.

One thing Yoshiki asked me, when I told him I was coming, was if I knew any martial arts. He is president of the schools Martial Arts Council and wants me to try out for a team. I admitted that I'm working toward my 1st Dan Black Belt, but I'm still definably a Brown. He said that was fine as his school is a little weak in the Karate department. Well that is it for now. I'm going to close up my laptop and crash for a while. One thing about being a military dependent, you learn to sleep on airplanes.

End entry

The boy/young man settled into his seat. He was about 15 years old, and handsome with the promise of getting even better looking as he matured. However, unlike a lot of people who know they looked good, he didn't appear arrogant about it. Leaning back he fell asleep.

Journal Entry 02

That weird dream happened again. I wandering through the ruins of a palace. I'm looking for somebody. As I search I see a pile of rubble with a hand sticking out. I'm crying like crazy as I dig the the body free. I remember crying for a while, holding her for a while then moving on through the palace. I have the impression of seeing something else, then I'm outside. There is a horde of creatures outside. I draw a sword and charge them. That is when I wake up. The dream is weird enough, but I get the feeling that I'm REMEMBERING something. The feeling has been getting stronger the closer I get to Japan. That's the real reason, the one I've not told Mom and Dad, that I agreed to come to Japan. That I have some sort of destiny there, not of blood relation, but for some other purpose.

End Entry

Tom exited the aircraft. He had had the dream twice more on the flight. But each time the details where more clear. He now knew that he was older in the dream than he now was, and the person he had held had been a young woman, not a girl. He also knew that the woman he had held had been personally important to him.

And the Sense of Destiny was getting stronger now that he had landed. *There are a fair number of Mystics in this country. I'll have to look for one, see if they can tell me what this means.* He continued to think about this problem as he cleared Customs and Immigration. * Yoshiki mentioned that some of the people in his school are interested in magic. I might look them up. * Preoccupied with his thoughts he almost missed the sign that said "Endo-Bradington"

Once they were in the chauffeur driven car the man got in back with Tom. "You surprise me sir."

Tom quirked an eyebrow. "How?"

"You tipped the baggage handler. And while the amount was not excessive, it was generous."

"He did a good job and I do have a lot of stuff. Fair is fair."

The man appeared to be deep in thought for a moment. "Permission to speak freely sir?" Tom was startled. He never expected to be asked such a question, at least at this age. "Go ahead."

"Your Cousin is an honorable young man. But he is also, as you say in America 'full of himself'." The chauffeur snorted in agreement. "He would honestly believe that merely serving him would have been sufficient reward for the baggage handler."

"I see. Well I can only answer that both my parents taught me that while rank has it privileges, it also has responsibilities. One of those is taking care of the 'little guy'. Because the 'little guy' is the one who frequently makes the difference." The older mans nodded with approval.

"On another subject, I'm trying to earn my Black Belt. I need to find a good Karate Sensei. I'm already 1st Kyu Brown belt."

"I hold a Black Belt in Karate, but I am not a good Sensei. I do know those who can teach you. I would be glad to make arrangements."

"Thank you..."

"My name is Shuji"

"Shuji this visit is already getting interesting"

Tom didn't know the half of it.

The Senshi's meeting had broken up. They were still trying to figure out just what the aliens goals were despite having several encounters with them and their "Cardians". Rei was slightly surprised that Ami had stayed behind today. They hadn't had too many one on one meetings since the other Senshi had shown up.

Rei studied her fellow Senshi. Ami had the look she had seen on many other people, the ones who had wanted help, advice, or simply someone to talk to. Not that she minded, as a priestess it _was_ one of her duties, and even if it wasn't Ami was one of her few true friends.

"Yes Ami?"

"Rei, I know you can read fire, how are you with dreams?"

This she wasn't quite expecting. "Are you having dreams of our ... fight in at the North Pole?" She had had a few of those herself, when their memories had first returned, but those dreams had faded. Rei's training and discipline had helped her. Perhaps Ami need such help.

"Not anymore but something new has started. It is about the Moon Kingdom, I think." At Rei "come on" gesture she continued.

"It is the fall of the Kingdom. I'm dancing with a man, who is very handsome. I'm enjoying his company and thinking about a pleasant surprise I'm going to be giving someone when suddenly I'm standing over my body and it's covered with rubble. I'm hovering around trying to decide what to do when I see a man come. I feel I know him... very well." Ami blushed. "He digs out my body, and holds and kisses me for a while. I feel extremely sad, even more so than having just died. We are left alone together for a while. I want to try to comfort him but I can't find a way. He lays out my body and goes. I try to go with him, but something keeps me near my body. After a while I feel the Queen's magic start to work and then I wake up."

Rei shook her head. "There is so much that we don't remember. I don't remember how I ... died then. The man must have been close to you in that life. Can you remember any other details?"

"He was in some kind of uniform. It makes me think of a Ninja because he had to remove a scarf or mask before he kissed my body."

"Well with that Trenchcoat Mask showing up, I doubt we were the only protectors back them. He must have been one of them."

Ami looked thoughtful, "I wonder what happened to him." Then she returned to the original topic. "But what else does this dream mean to me.. and the rest of the Senshi?"

Rei frowned in thought. "I don't know. Let's ask Luna and Artemis, maybe that's a part of their memory that's whole. And I'll try and do a fire reading for you later. And the next time you have the dream try and write down everything you can remember about it. It might help." Then impulsively she hugged Ami. "We'll all get through this, together."

Ami resolved to ask Luna right away. She headed straight to

Usagi's house. Mrs. Tushko greeted her at the door.

"No I'm sorry Ami, she isn't home yet. Do you want me to call her when she gets in?"

"Yes please, if it is no problem." As she turned and left she saw

Luna coming through the gate.

"There you are!!" called Ami.

"Usagi is still at the arcade Ami," said the Moon Cat, in a slightly miffed manner.

"It's you who I wanted to see. Got some time?"

They had gone to a park. Sitting under a tree Ami told Luna what she could about the dream and what she and Rei had discussed.

"Rei's right about one thing, the Senshi were not the only people with powers, just the strongest. Each of the planets had their own armed forces as did the nations of Earth. I also have fuzzy memories of other groups, only they were not nearly as powerful and they had different duties. Describe to me again what you can about the man's uniform." Once Ami was finished Luna shook her head. "I've got a vague memory as to the duties of the group, but not their name. They worked mainly on earth, but they also operated on all the planets. Their main job was dealing with criminals that crossed boarders and hunting fugitives."

'So in some ways they were like INTERPOL.?"

"Yes or like the Marshals of the United States because they could make arrests in their own right. They were experts at tracking, stealth, and other detective type things and they had powers as well."

"What kind of powers?"

Luna raised a paw to her head. 'I don't remember exactly. I still can't recall the group's name but some individuals were called a Star something."

Something clicked in Ami head. "Star Hunter. They were the Hunters." she said, staring into space.

Luna nodded, excited. "That's right! How did you remember?"

"It just popped into my head."

"Then the man in your dream must have been a Hunter. More than a few were at court. That is why the uniform was like it was, to make it harder for any planning crimes to know the face of a Hunter. They did make friends amongst those in the court though. In fact I now remember some romantic stories involving Hunters and how showing their full face was a act of love and trust.

They were both men and women by the way."

"So I've been having dreams about a Hunter. Why just me? and what does it mean?"

A new voice intruded. "You're not the only one dreaming about him

Ami."

"Makoto! What are you doing here?"

"I saw that you were going to talk to Rei. I left and hung around the mall for a while and then came back. I've been having a dream like yours only from my point of view."

The three sat quietly for a while listening to sounds of the park.

"What was your view Makoto?"

"Some one who was important to me was the one who killed me at the Moon Kingdom. My soul was still in shock over the betrayal so I was also 'hanging around' A man comes, he says something like 'Not you too Sister!' I can tell he has been crying, which surprised me, and somehow I know it is because of you Ami. He has his face uncovered, but after he does what he can for my body he gets this look, like he is going to try and take on an army by himself. He covers up his face again, draws a sword and some type of pistol and stalks out. I want to go with him but I can't. That's when I wake up."

"I think one of the Hunters is returning girls." murmured Luna. Ami nodded. "That make sense Luna. With two of us having dreams about it. And it must be one we two," she pointed between Lita and herself "knew well."

Luna nodded "Yes, keep your eyes open, I'll tell the others as well.

We may have a new ally." * And I'm going to have to do some searching as well.*

Chapter 2

Journal Entry 10

Started school today. Yoshiki must have almost as much influence as he thinks he has. I was fully expecting to get a lot of "go home gaijin" remarks, but hardly anyone did. And those few looked like the type who just want to cause trouble anyhow.

I'm lucky that I've inherited most of my mothers looks, so unless you are really observant you can't tell I'm not a 'pure breed'. The martial arts guys don't appear to care that much so I'm likely to hang around with them for a while. There is also a architect club that I'm thinking of joining.

There is an Occult/Mysticism club here, but I'm going to be careful about contacting them. I don't know, some of them strike me as having just enough knowledge to get into trouble but not enough to get out of it. Will still have to check them out.

Oh forgot to mention earlier, Yoshiki practices Kendo. Likes to carry one of those bokken practice swords around.

End Entry

Tom sat back from his machine. * Forgot to tell how I got plugged into the school's gossip net real quick. Didn't know about Yoshiki 'skirt chaser' rep until then. Think I'll try to met some of his rivals just to let them know that not all of his relatives are bad. Oh, just got to add something now.

Journal Entry 10a

Met Uncle sooner than I thought I would, he got back from a trip up north early. Actually got complimented on my haircut. Well to be honest I do like a crew cut, and I'm told I'm one of the few people these days who look good in it. But it started an argument between Yoshiki and Uncle. It looks like Uncle thinks Yoshiki wears his hair to long. Tried to stay out of the fight.

Shuji better introduce me to that sensei soon, I feel that I need to improve my knowledge and there is only so much I can do by myself.

End Entry

The next day Tom and his cousin were walking back from school.

"Well cousin how was your day?"

"Not bad, met some more people today, had my first fight as well."

The older boy looked over his cousin. "You appear none the worse for wear."

"Maybe I'm not as good as you with that bokken you like to carry around, but I do know Karate. And I'm a lot better than anyone who hasn't received any training. My Brown Belt was truly earned not given to me. The guy must have felt that because I wasn't carrying any visible weapon, that I would be an easy mark. It also turned out that he had a glass jaw. First punch there and he folded."

"Did he say why?"

"Something about being a dirty gaijin."

Yoshiki stopped, clearly trying to control his anger. "To insult one of the Endo blood. Surly the vengeance of...."

"Yoshiki, I stomped him but good. He's the type who jumps on those much weaker than him, those who can't fight back. He will not bother me again. And if he does, I'll stomp him again."

"Despite the fact you do not carry a blade you do have the true Endo Warrior spirit."

Tom thought of the collapsible bo staff he had designed and built and now had hidden up his sleeve. * Right no blade, but a very big stick still ...* "You going to start teaching me Kendo tonight?"

"One hour after dinner"

Journal Entry 11

Yoshiki is a good teacher, at least at subjects he knows about. I met him in his room (boy does he have a lot of pictures. They could save a lot of money on yearbook pictures just by copying the ones he has of the girls). He is almost as good as his ego says he is, but I keep remembering that old expression about gunfighters and how there's always one faster than you. I think I'm doing well for a beginner, enough so that I can compete at the beginners level for Kendo as well as my actual level in Karate. Funny though ......

(Flashback)

"You appear to have a good feel for the sword cousin, but something appears awkward for your grip."

"I know Yoshiki, this sword is comfortable, I could use it if I had to, but it doesn't feel right."

"Perhaps a different blade than the katana or its wooden cousins?

Even though the katana is the proper blade for the Samurai"

They tried several from the practice hall, the one that felt right resembled the "ninja-do". What surprised both young men was the marked improvement in Tom's performance.

"Some types of blades call to certain men Cousin Toma, this must be the case for you. Do not get to complacent though, you must practice for years before you can even think of approaching my level"

Then he showed Tom just what he meant.

(End Flashback)

..... I never thought much about any sword, but when I picked that type up, well. I liked it, and I felt it liked me!! *

Tom was sitting in his social studies class. This one was not one of the one he felt was boring as it was introducing him more and more to his mothers birth culture. * She must have _really_ loved Dad a lot to leave her home like she did. I'm going to have to call her and tell her that, and thank her for insisting I come here. I'm proud to be an American, but there is so much in Japan too. * Then he straightened up."We have a field trip coming up next week to a Temple over in the Juban District. Attendance is not mandatory but the Principle did state he had 'special plans' for those who stayed here at school. Something about a lot of drains and waterspouts needing to be unclogged. Now who is planning to come?"

Tom's hand was lost in the sea of raising arms. The whole class wanted to go.

As classes let out for the day Tom spotted one of Yoshiki's rivals and two of the girls Yoshiki was interested in. * I'm finally going to introduce myself to them * Hello, I'm..."

"Toma James Endo-Bradington the III" Heiseima interrupted while speaking in a overly pompous manner.

"Drop the third part and you got it right. And where did you find out my full name?"

One of the girls giggled. "From Chi. And he paid enough for it too."

"Yeah 1000 yen." groused Heiseima.

"She charged me 2000!!" exclaimed Sahari.

Tom looked between the trio. "Why am I so important that you paid money for just my name?"

Both the girls laughed. The boy fumed for a moment and then told Tom, "Over the past few weeks Your cousin has been talking and bragging about his American Cousin and how great he is going to make the Martial Arts Club. We wanted to get the real scoop and Chi is the one to get it from in this school."

Tom rubbed his eyes. "Let me guess, you found out that I'm a brown belt, but I don't go throwing my weight around about it. I'm a Endo, but several people have already commented that I'm not as full of it as my cousin."

"And you are a certified genius, who isn't a snob about it." added Momiji.

"How did you find that out?" asked the other all at once.

"From one of the girls who works in the schools office. She also thinks you're cute Toma."

"Thank you Momiji. And I might add that both you and Sahari also share the distinction of being 'cute'."

"Ha! Hear that Heiseima!"

"How could he think you are even halfway cute, you tomboy!"

"Well he thinks Sahari is cute also and she dresses like a boy half the time"

Tom was backing away from the argument, especially as both Momiji and Sahari looked to be getting physical about their argument.

Journal Entry 20

I'm fitting into the school more these days. I've made some friends including female friends if not girl friends, if you know the difference.

The two female ones are Momiji and Sahari. They, a boy named Heiseima and Yoshiki are part of a quartangle. Nether of the guys can make up their mind which girl they want, but they don't want the other guy to have either of them. The girls are always arguing about who is cuter even though Sahari does dress like a boy half the time and they are both tomboys!!

I've checked into the Occult/Mystic club some more. What ever it is they are doing gives me some bad vibes. I get the feeling that wherever I get the answers to my dreams, it WILL NOT be from those clowns.

Maybe at that temple we are suppose to be visiting soon.

End Entry.

Chapter 3

"So, what are you doing tomorrow guys? asked Usagi. While upset that Mamoru hadn't regained his memories of Tuxedo Mask she was also refusing to let it get her down, despite some new competition from the new student from France.

"I've got to stay at the temple and help give tours all day tomorrow." said Rei. "When we do that I'm always wiped out at the end of the day."

"Tours?" asked Minako.

"Yes, we give occasional group tours. The money helps support us, and it keeps people aware of their spiritual side as well. We've got people from several schools coming tomorrow so I've got to help out."

"Would you like us to help?" asked Ami. The others (even Usagi) chiming in their agreement.

"Thanks, but you couldn't learn all you need to do the job right in such a short time. Not even you Ami."

"But we could help out at any food or drink booths you have, at least after school." volunteered Makoto

"Maybe, but a girl from one of the schools has already made some arrangements. She looked like she was going to gouge us, but

Grandpa showed that he can still negotiate. We will get a fair share from that too."

Usagi struck a pose, "Still we'll show up and help if we can, right guys?"

"Right!!" chorused the others.

"And this section was originally erected during the Torinagwa Shogunate. It is the oldest section of the Temple and a historical landmark." Rei's voice was starting to sound a little horse, but she kept on going. She was also getting strange vibes from this group, not evil, but most certainly strange.

"Boorrrreeeing" whispered Heiseima.

"Quiet Heiseima, learn more of your cultural past" shot back Yoshiki.

"Both of you be quiet, you might not be interested but I am," hissed

Tom. The President of the Magic/Occult club was muttering something about powerful vibes. He was looking all over the place, but appeared to be completely ignoring Rei.

Tom was slightly miffed. He had gotten on better terms with Momiji and he was really becoming a friend to Sahari, especially after he got her hot water heater running again after a plumber had named an outrageous price. Yoshiki had left him alone when Tom made it clear that while he found both Momiji and Sahari attractive, he wasn't after either one. That ended that possible complication for the tour as all four plus Tom and the Occult/Magic Club had been assigned to the same bus. By misfortune the bus's motor decided to start acting strange. Then the members of the Occult/Mystic club started one of their chants. Tom was starting to think that cleaning gutters would not be such a bad way to spend the day.

Because of the time it took to get it repaired they were visiting the temple late in the day, instead of being with the rest of the school who had an early morning visit. Tom never did like being stuck with the "stragglers". Still the place was lovely and peaceful despite the low key bickering going on between what Tom had labeled the "Hormone Crew".

He had also heard that both the [senior priest] and the girl now guiding them were accepted as real mystics. If this was true then maybe he could get some help with his dreams, which were getting more vivid. For example he could see more of the girl he had held in his arms. And there was a new element added, a second girl he had found after he left the first one. He felt toward her like he felt for his sister. In the dream, as he turned to face the

.... Youma (were did that word come from?) he felt the need to avenge both the women.

Tom gathered his resolve. *Now is a as good as time as any for asking for help. * The others were wondering around, looking at the relics and information on display. "Excuse me Miss, I was wondering if I could get some help from you."

"Yes?" Rei responded giving one of her "target lock" stares, which Tom took in stride.

"I've been having these recurring dreams. I think there is some significance to them, but I don't know where to turn to. I've been told that you and the [senior priest] have certain gifts that might help me."

"If you are serious, my Grandfather or I could do a fire reading to help search for an answer. But today is not a good day, unless the need is urgent."

"I'm not overly disturbed by the dreams, but I do want some answers. Can I have a number to call to set up a time?"

They had just finished exchanging the information when Rei had to break up a fight between Heiseima and Yoshiki * Major forceful personality there. She looks like someone who is used to getting things done. *

Rei had finished her tour with the Furikain group and was taking a breather while waiting for the next group. *Whew, only a few more to go*

"Hi Rei, how'yah doing?" asked Makoto as she and Ami arrived.

"Tired, where's Usagi? I thought she was coming too."

"She got detention again. She snuck a manga into class and Miss Haruna caught her."

"I hope it wasn't one of mine."

"No, I was with her when she bought it." said Makoto.

Ami was idly studying the Furikain students as they got on board the bus when she gasped.

"What's wrong Ami?"

"One of the boys getting on the bus, the one with short hair, he's the one from my dream!!"

Makoto spun around and stared, but the one Ami meant had already boarded. "I don't see 'em"

"I did, we got to follow them"

"Right! Rei stay here and tell Minako and Usagi when they show up."

They transformed into Mercury and Jupiter and followed the bus.

* Note to self, _never_ go on a trip in the same vehicle as Yoshiki and Heiseima. * The two rivals were constantly sniping at each other and with objects of their affections also on board it was getting worse. In fact Tom would almost swear that there was a blue glow around all of them. Plus with the Occult/Mystic club being on board and things were getting intense. Some of them had started chanting again.

Eyes much more sensitive to energy flows were already watching the bus. "I have not seen such energy in such a small place Ann." "Me neither Ail, let's get some and try it for the Doom Tree."

"So pick a Cardian my dear so we can do so."

The choice was soon made and their servant was sent forth.

"It's not my fault the bus got a flat Momiji!!!"

"Just leave me alone Heiseima, I've got a headache, I'm mad at

Sahari and I DON'T NEED MORE AGGRAVATION!!!"

"All right then I'll go over there and sit by that tree." Muttering something about uncute tomboys Heiseima sat down.

Tom smirked *This is beginning to look like some short of soap opera, still he has a good idea, a nap would be nice. *

By chance it was the same tree Luna was sitting in. She had been getting vibrations similar to the ones she now knew had heralded her discovery of a Senshi. With what she, Ami and Makoto had discussed she felt the Hunter would soon appear. * Maybe this boy here * she thought as Tom flopped down at the base of the tree.

Over and away the chanters where getting louder. Luna's eyes widened as she realized that some of the kids were actually channeling magical energy. But they weren't shielding properly and a lot was leaking into the environment. Some of it was causing gusts of wind.

All of which made them the primary target when the Cardian appeared.

And at the same time one of those gusts knocked Luna out of the tree. Tom saw nothing of this as Luna had landed on him at the end of her arc. "What the [various words and phrases learned from hanging around SeaBees, you fill in the blanks]." Luna looked up.

Recognition.

Images flooded into Tom's mind all too quickly for him to fully focus, but he latched onto certain things.

He held a royal advisor in his arms.

He was sworn to uphold justice.

He was sworn to protect all people. King, Noble, and Commoner alike.

He had loved two of the Senshi, not in the abstract way that he had loved his King, but in a real and personal way. One as a sister, the other he had hoped to marry. He had awakened and he was needed. But he shouldn't go into battle yet, he didn't have his uniform and equipment.

Luna felt a mind block dissolve. She and Artemis had been given several rings in their hyperspace storage areas. She heard Queen Serenity's calm voice speak in her mind: "If any of the Hunters awaken they will need a focus to regain their uniform and equipment. If you find one, give him or her one of these rings. It will give them what they need" Quickly she did her 'kitty-flip' and the ring fell to the ground. "Put this one and think of what you need!!" "Yes First Advisor."

---Across the Park, at about the same time---

"I am Cardian Kudzu!!! And your energy is mine!!!" at that vines sprung up around the chanters, to quickly for any of them to escape.

The President of the club made what he thought were mystic passes. If he had held his hands just a little straighter he might have been able to launch a weak magical attack. Even if it had worked all that attack would have done was annoyed the Cardian.

"You leave them alone!!!" Heiseima shouted as he charged up swinging a tree limb. This naturally made him Kudzu's next target. Quickly he was drained.

----Back with Luna and Tom---

The ring fit perfectly. Tom stared at it for a moment, wondering if he should say or do something to focus. Then it hit him. He made a fist, raised it over he head and shouted: "In the name of justice I am a Hunter!! I am a Star Hunter!!!!" He felt power wrapping him changing him, changing what he had on. Awakening him.

StarHunter looked down at himself. What he saw was something like a armored Ninja, the armor was made so he could move freely but still have protection. He knew he had a sword on his back and powers at his command. At his hip was a hand crossbow. He knew his cousin and new friends needed help.

"OK First Advisor, Let's do it."

Sailors Mercury and Jupiter had arrived. They were hindered by the fact that Kuzu was moving her victims (which now included Yoshiki, but he was still whacking away, however feebly, with his sword) to block any shot Jupiter would take. The movement also kept Mercury from getting a good fix on any weak spots the Cardian might have.

"What can we do?" asked Jupiter as she tossed a few "Supreme Thunders" around, just to keep the monster occupied.

"Keep it busy", answered back Mercury, "I'll call the others then circle around, maybe it will track me and give you a clear shot."

As they started to put their plan into motion, the shout of "THUNDER OF JUPITER!!!" came from the tree line.

"What?" shouted Mercury and Jupiter

A bolt of lightning struck the Cardian, doing little if any apparent damage. But from the way it was suddenly holding it's eyes, it was blinded. It was also distracted as suddenly the victims where dropped to the ground.

"Now combine your strikes Senshi!!!" shouted Luna.

"Supreme Thunder!!"

"Shabon Spray!!"

Kuzu managed to dodge part of the attack but was blown back further into the Park. "I will return!!!"

"You're no MacArthur!!" Shouted back Starhunter.

"OK buddy, thanks for the help, but who are you?" Demanded Jupiter. "And how did you..." Jupiter got her first good look at her unexpected ally. Mercury looked up from where she was checking on the drained people, and gasped. It was the man from her dream.

StarHunter had started a slow stagger toward Mercury. Reaching her he dropped to his knees and hugged her. "My soul has waited all these years to see you alive again!!" he sobbed.

Ami blushed. She felt something welling up inside of her, something she couldn't yet identify, but some of it she liked.

Jupiter was also feeling something, a fond memory from the Silver Millenium, a friendship as close as, no closer than, Ken's was in this life.

"It is good to see you Big Brother, but you and Mercury need to get back to work. When your friends are gotten to safety, we can talk

OK?"

Chapter 4

The students from Furikan had been taken to the Hospital, for observation. But they were expected to be released soon. A fast but thorough check by Starhunter and the rest of the Senshi, who had finally arrived, turned up nothing. With no immediate threat, the Senshi and Starhunter had a chance to talk.

"So, how much do you remember about the Moon Kingdom?" asked Sailor Venus.

"Bits and pieces Venus. I remember being a Hunter. I traveled the planets. I remember serving on the Moon. I can remember the way a Fluns steak served New Atlantas style tasted as opposed to the way a Earth cook would do it. I remember.... The Fall of the Kingdoms, in fact I have been dreaming of it. I think I stunned by the concussion from one of the initial attacks. I was in my quarters trying to make arrangements for something and that kept me from going to a ball that night. I was very pi.. ticked off for two reasons. The minor one was Hunters were rarely invited to such functions and I was missing it. The more important one was that I was to met someone there to get an answer to a very important question." He was looking right at Mercury when he made his last statement.

Ami and Makoto looked thoughtful, remembering what they could of their most recent dreams and of the last days of the Silver Millenium in general.

They sat there for a few minutes, thinking of "might have been's" Then Starhunter continued. "I met all of you back then, I think, but I was only close to these two." He pointed at Mercury and Jupiter.

"Were you Jupiter's boyfriend?" asked Sailor Moon. Jupiter's laugh at that question started three of the five Senshi.

"No, he was my brother." The others showed their astonishment in the form of a bunch of babble. To whit:

"But they don't look like each other. If he was her brother he would be the same height or taller."

"He may look different from that life."

"But Luna says we don't look that much different from that time and this."

Tom was giving Makoto the exact same look he gave his sister Sami when she annoyed him. "I was adopted into the Royal Clan of Jupiter, in reward for special services rendered.

Everyone was now looking at Makoto.

"I remember that he saved my life on Jupiter. Twice."

Tom nodded. "Sorry I couldn't do it a third time on the Moon."

Jupiter laid a friendly hand on his shoulder and smiled sadly. "You would have tried if you could. Any of my brothers would have."

Tom took up his story again. "I think I was an orphan in that life. When my Hunters powers manifested I was taken into the Hunter Corps. I was one of the few that were allowed to operate off of Earth. My first off planet station was Jupiter. While I was there I twice I wound up saving..." Starhunter looked blank for a moment, "I don't remember Jupiter's name back then. That is why I was adopted. I was never in the line of succession, but I could claim membership in the Royal Clan."

"I have a memory of you standing over me. Once I was near the water and the other we were on a mountain. I also remember part of the adoption ceremony. You were so happy to have a family again. I remember you saying it didn't matter if we were kings, queens or peasants."

"And what about Mercury?" asked Sailor Moon.

"He asked me to marry him." Mercury whispered quietly.

"Just before the final night I asked her. She was going to give me an answer at the ball. We never got the chance, because of the attack." Starhunter looked at the two most important women from his past life. "I assume you have been having dreams about that, because I have."

Suddenly Mercury grabbed Starhunter's arm. "We need to talk some, alone" she said. She turned enough to face the other Senshi. "Go back to our usual spot. I'll lead him in after our talk. We can tell him our real names then."

Sailor Moon nudged Mercury. "What are you all going to do?" Starhunter interrupted. "Your Highness, I don't know why you have also taken the mantle of the Moon, but I do remember that back then you knew when to butt out of your friends life, to give them space. Please do so now." Mercury nodded an agreement and they left.

"So" the two said at once. Then they laughed, feeling awkward.

"I'm not as good with this as .... alright, let's start. First of all let us transform back." said Mercury. It took longer for Starhunter to do so as he lacked experience. They found a place to sit down.

"Let me do an introduction. My name is Ami Muizo. I go to school at Juban Junior High. I have a reputation of being a bookworm and a genius. I guess both are earned."

Tom stood and bowed formally. "My full name is Toma James Endo-Bradington. I like to be called Tom. My mother is Japanese and my father is an American. I go to Furikan High school. I too have the reputation of being a genius, which according to the test scores, I've also earned. I don't like to brag about it."

"Yes," responded Ami while nodding her head. "A lot of people are put off when they realize they are not as smart as you."

There was a brief conversational void, that Ami broke. "What are some of the things you like Tom?"

"Books, travel, learning, making things. I've hung around the SeaBees a lot, so I can do basic carpentry, plumbing and electrical work. I also learned how to operate heavy equipment, but I haven't had a lot of experience. The Navy gets nervous when a person with only a learners permit tries to operate heavy machinery like a bulldozer. I have had a lot of hobbies, but one of the ones that I've stuck with is Karate. My cousin Yoshiki is starting to teach me Kendo. My father is an American Naval officer and part of me wants to follow in his footsteps. I also want to be an architect and a civil engineer. So if I do try to get in the Navy it will most likely be as a SeaBee but I am also considering trying out for the SEALS."

"I've heard of them. I want to be a Doctor when I grow up, but I like all the sciences as well, especially computers."

They stared into each others eyes as the conversation lagged once again. Ami broke the silence. "I still feel something for you Tom, I just don't know what. I'm a bit confused right now and I don't want to rush anything.".

"Let's let our hearts set the pace." replied Tom "We been separated for centuries, we can afford some time. I'm just glad we found each other."

"Based on my past experance, whatever is going to happen isn't going to be smooth. We are likely to have as many problems as Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Mask have had."

"You mean the Princess found her Prince in this life?"

"Yes, but right now he has no memories of her, the Kingdom or what he did as Tuxedo Mask. And now there is some transfer student that is also after him as well."

"They'll find a way" said Tom * And I hope we will too *

They sat for a while and then Ami led Tom to the Hikawa Shrine. Once there Tom was introduced to the Senshi's real names and briefed on what was the current situation.

Once all the introductions had occured Rei had to comment, "Well I guess you won't be needing that fire reading after all will you Tom?"

Tom nodded. "Nope, but I find it interesting that I was drawn to a place that could have offered help, and that caused our, lets call it first contact, be made."

"Fate has a lot to do with what happens with us." said Rei getting nods from the others.

"Well lets get back to the current problem as opposed to the past ones. You say the five of you regained your Senshi identities a few weeks ago. But Tuxedo Mask hasn't returned."

Usagi stopped a sniffle. "Yes and he doesn't remember being with

ME!! We had thought that he had taken on the name of 'Moonlight

Knight' and was still helping all of us, but I saw them both at the same time in the same place."

"You are going to help us with these aliens, right Big Bro?" asked Makoto.

"As much as I can, I feel that it is my duty. Plus I want to see more of Ami and Makoto."

The blue-haired Senshi blushed. "But where I am staying is not as close to Juban as I would like."

"Sometimes we can't all fight as one either," said Minako, "But we try as hard as we can."

Luna nodded. "And with that in mind here." She did her kitty-flip and produced a communicator. "This way we can contact you or you, us as needed." She then gave a cat's version of a grimace as she glanced at Usagi. "And try not to use it for purely personal messages, like some Senshi I know."

Tom laughed and gave a salute. "Aye Aye Chief."

"I'm a cat not an Indian"

"I mean as in Chief Petty Officer, one of their most important duties is making sure everyone does their job right. That fits what I've seen you do."

"They must suffer a lot of frustration."

"Sometimes Luna, sometimes. So, what is our next move?"

Ami looked thoughtful. "We didn't destroy the Cardian, so your friends might still be in danger. But other than that guy with the wooden sword they didn't appear that special."

Tom laughed. "Yoshiki would be insufferable if he heard you say that. Most of the people who got drained are Members of a Occult and Magic Club at school. I didn't believe it until today, but some of them look to be able to do something with magic."

"That explains some of the feelings I got from them," added Rei,

"You're correct Rei" agreed Luna. "I saw them too. Most of them are doing absolutely nothing, but a few have magical potential. However they are almost completely untrained and therefore dangerous to themselves and others."

"Maybe I should take some readings from my computer?" asked Ami.

The others agreed. "Based on what you said, Yoshiki and the others are most likely on their way home now. Let me call a cab and we can get over to my neighborhood."

"Can you afford it?" asked Makoto.

"The Endo and Bradington fortunes are vast. I have both cash enough and a credit card that can get us the transport I need."

* God I sounded a little like Yoshiki then. *

"OK I never pass up a free ride." laughed Makoto.

"This energy is helping the tree some, but not as much as I thought." said Ail as he gazed upward.

"At least the withering has stopped." said Ann.

"But it is not getting better. Still Kudzu was interrupted by those

Sailor Girls before she had drained to much. I think maybe we should try again."

What the alien couple would never figure out until much later was that the tree was responding to the love and concern for each other the "Hormone Crew" felt for each other. The emotions were so well mixed in that the tree could not sort out the ones it truly needed. Plus the club members were broadcasting a lot of negative energy as well. The day that would allow it to receive the right type of energy had not yet arrived.

A call to the hospital had confirmed that the students from Tom's school had been discharged. Tom had the cab drop them off within walking distance of the Endo mansion so they talk without worrying about the cab driver overhearing.

"So what are your families like ladies?"

"My mother is a doctor Tom, but my father doesn't live with us anymore. I'm frequently alone, because of the shifts she works and the conferences she has to attend. But when we are together we make up for the times apart."

"Like when Dad goes on a deployment, I can understand Ami. What about you Makoto?"

"This time I'm the orphan Tom. For various reasons I can't live with my cousins and I can't handle foster families any more. But I do OK, I've got the other Senshi now."

"You've got a brother now too Makoto. It's hard to fully express, but I feel the same toward both of you as I did back in the Silver Millenium." Ami blushed, not knowing what to say. He looked up and saw they had reached the mansion. "Plus I have a few resources to help us all."

Makoto and Ami gasped at the place. "You live here?" Tom gestured at the estate. "Yep, but it's not totally what I'm used to either. We've lived in big places before, but I've still got to get used to the idea of servants," he added as he walked through the gate.

"Master Toma you have returned, Master Yoshiki was concerned." "I got separated from the group when whatever that thing was attacked."

The servant arched an eyebrow. "And these two ladies?"

"Are my friends, Ami and Makoto. I met them while I was out exploring the town." The servant knew that Tom was not telling the full truth, but it wasn't his place to pry. "Of course Master Toma, would you like to introduce your friends to Master Yoshiki?"

Catching Ami's nod Tom agreed.

They found Yoshiki lounging, propped up on several pillows.

"I fear I must postpone tonights lesson dear Cousin. The Physicians in Juban state I must rest for 48 hours before I can resume my normal activities. No doubt they are being conservative, yet I do own to large degree of weariness. How did you escape?"

"I think it was about to get me when those Sailor Senshi showed up, Yoshiki. It was quite brave to go after it.."

Yoshiki made a dismisive gesture. "I did what I any honorable person would have done, even Heiseima made an effort."

"I'm planning on visiting those who got attacked Yoshiki, but before I leave, I wanted to introduce you to two friends I met recently. I was still a little shaken when I accidently ran into them and they offered to come with me. This is Ami Mizuo and Makoto Kino."

"It is well that such noble hearts are housed in such vessels of loveliness."

"He reminds me of my old boyfriend!!" gushed Makoto. Ami sweat dropped.

Yoshiki started to get out of bed. "_Old_ Boyfriend? What kind of cad would abandon such a vision of strength and loveliness as yourself? Tell me where I can find him so I may smite him!!!"

Now it was Tom's turn to sweat drop. "Don't put yourself out Yoshiki.

If need be I'll handle it, that is if Makoto feels it is necessary and she doesn't want to handle it herself." Mentally Tom added, * Why does he always start talking like that when he meets a girl? *

"She is your friend Cousin, but should you need my blade...."

"I'll call. Thanks. Lets go guys."

After they had left the mansion Makoto rounded on Tom. "Is your cousin available? He really does remind me of my old boyfriend."

Ami sighed wearily. "Makoto, almost every male in Tokyo reminds you of him."

"Yoshiki does have a rep Makoto, plus he is actively chasing at least two girls that I know of. You're going to met both of them. There is much that I respect in my cousin, but my sister could do better than him."

"Oh all right," Makoto groused.

Ami brought them back to what they were there for. "I also was able to get some readings from him. They are incomplete but I can now get a general warning if that particular Cardian reappears. I will need more data to be able to track it."

"Then let's go get it Ami. To quote a more famous Hunter-type 'The Game is afoot!'."

"So who is the first one we will meet?" asked Makoto as they walked down the street.

"Sahari. Her family's restaurant is on the way. And then on to Heiseima and Momiji's. They are next door neighbors."

"Are either one of them your girl friend?" asked Makoto in a teasing manner.

"Makoto!" Ami said in a disapproving manner, trying to ignore the sudden, unexpected stab of jealousy she felt. Just as she tried to ignore the relief she felt when Tom gave his reply.

Shaking his head rapidly Tom said, "Nope. Nien, Nyet. The girls, my cousin and Heiseima form what I call the Hormone crew. Each boy is after both girls and visa-versa. Personally I think they should just pair off for a while and then switch to see who gets along best with the other. To be honest Heiseima sticks to the two girls but Yoshiki will make a pass at almost any girl there is. I think the only reason you didn't get 'hit' Ami was because Makoto spoke up first."

The trio smelled the place first. "I hope they cook as good as their food smells" said Makoto, speaking with authority.

"Well your food does, so it follows that this place will also have good food," replied Ami. "Then my ladies, at the risk of sounding like my cousin once again, may I buy you both dinner? This is my favorite restaurant in the neighborhood." Tom bowed the two Senshi in.

"Toma-san! How nice to see you. Are you well?" asked the woman who was running the register and showing people to their tables. She had a lot to do as the place was very busy. Ami noticed that the waiters all looked like the woman.

"Very well, thank you Mrs Kato. Is Sahari working tonight?" "She looked a little ill and admitted to being tired, we have her folding napkins for a while, but she insists on doing some waitressing tonight as well." The woman looked both proud and concerned for Sahari.

Tom covered his own consern. * I halfway expected Sahari not to tell them about the attack. Guess she didn't want to worry them. I'll play along until I know the whole story here. * "OK if I go back and say 'Hi'? I'm also planning of treating these two ladies to supper, and introducing them to some of my friends."

"No problem Toma-san. And see if you can find out what is wrong with her, all she told us was that she was tired."

After being told where their table would be, Tom lead the way back to the kitchen. There a few more people were cooking up a storm. Makoto looked around in approval. "This is the type of place that I want to run someday."

"It's a family business. Sahari parents, her Aunt and all six of her brothers help run it. That's why she dresses as a boy half the time. When they were first starting out they had to stretch everything, including money for clothing. Sahari had to wear a lot of hand-me-downs. When they started to get ahead, her wearing boy's clothes had become a habit. They all are excellent cooks and have some sort of rotation system so they all get to cook and have to work out in the front. Now let's find Sahari."

The found her in the back, folding napkins, just as her mother had said. What was a surprise to them was that Sahari was not alone, Chi was with her, and was in fact folding a lot more of the napkins.

"Just tell them Sahari, they can do without your full services for one night." Chi was saying as the others showed up.

"No I'm fine, I will pull my weight, just as I've always done. Plus you know how my brothers are. I don't want to be escorted everywhere for the next two weeks."

"I see that I'm not the only one to be checking on the victims," announced Tom, "and you really should be resting Sahari, if Yoshiki can take time off from his Kendo practice, then you can take a night off." He then went on to introduce Ami and Makoto.

"See, you got a second opinion now Sahari."

"But if I tell them, I'll never hear the end of it!"

"So what?" said Makoto, "They will give you the support you need.

Be glad you've got that support. And you are hardly the first to get attacked like that, although most of the time it seems to take place in Juban."

"You're from there, aren't you Makoto?" asked Chi.

"Yes they both are." added Tom, hoping to distract Chi from the readings Ami was taking. He was not as successful as he had thought.

"Have either of you ever been attacked?" pressed Chi. "Not exactly, but a attack was supposed to have happened at the Cram School I attend," admitted Ami, "But my mother is a doctor and she agrees that from what is known, attack victims like yourself should get rest to build up their energy again."

"Well thanks for your concern, but I am fine," Sahari said stubbornly.

She got up, took about five steps, then collapsed.

When they finally got Sahari up to her room, her family insisted that the meal would be on the house. They also politely, but firmly refused Makoto's offer to help out in the kitchen or in the dinning area. Chi had made her excuses shortly after Sahari was made comfortable. When Tom explained about the attack you could see the family closing ranks. Tom suspected that anyone trying to get to Sahari would know they had been in a major fight.

Ami quickly picked up on this. "According to my mother, the victims mental adittude has a lot do with their recovery time," she said, "If you press her to closely, if you are over protective, it will take longer for her to recover. And I know you want her to get well quickly."

Upon hearing this her family agreed to give Sahari her space.

When they finally got to eat, Ami noticed that Makoto was not eating like she normally did. When she was asked why the taller girl just sighed. "I got a flash of my life during the Silver Millenium. I had a much larger family then. I miss them and my parents from this life. I guess I just got a little depressed. I know I got the Senshi and now Tom but...."

The others nodded, understanding, knowing that words would just get in the way right now. They finished the meal in silence.

When they left the restaurant though, they were back to business. "I've got more complete readings now. I now can track the general area that Cardian will be in when it appears. If I can get some more data I can... Tom what is wrong?"

Tom had started to glance about. "I don't know, some of my Hunter training is coming back. Something is up, my subconscious is trying to tell me something, but right now I don't remember enough to know what." He shook his head. "Let's move on."

"So Momiji and Heiseima are neighbors huh?" asked Makoto.

"From what I understand. They were playmates while growing up, but about the time that they started noticing the opposite sex they met Yoshiki and Sahari."

"And that's when the quadrangle started." Ami made the question a statement.

"Bingo! Of course it is a little more involved than that, and all I have is Yoshiki's side of it."

When they reached the houses they found Heiseima and Momiji sitting under a tree at Momiji's house.

"Yeah, we are taking it easy, doesn't mean we can't get some studying out of the way," responded Heiseima.

Momiji gave Heiseima a friendly swipe. "Mr Macho here doesn't want most people to know he has a brain. It's not as good as your's

Tom (Heiseima snorted at that) but it is good"

"And you Tomboy like the books as well."

"Can you tell me anything about the creature that attacked you?" asked Tom. While the victims described Kudzu to them Tom kept darting his eyes around. * Someone is watching, but it is not hostile,* thought the revived Hunter, * the question is where are they watching from? *

Chi ducked back undercover. She had followed the trio to this location. She frequently 'checked on' Heiseima and Momiji and had developed a perfect hiding place. But Tom appeared to have at least an inkling of her presence.

* Plus I could have sworn I lip read Senshi and Silver Millenium while they were in the restaurant, when they didn't know I was watching. * Then her eyes narrowed as she saw Ami stealthily pull out her computer and aim it at her two friends.

* Now I know I wasn't imagining things. And it does tell me a bit more. *

"So that is it, then?" asked Makoto.

"Yeah, it attacked the Occult/Magic club members first, then the rest of us because we were close."

"Or because they charged into it swinging sticks" added Momiji.

"So I don't carry a bokken around. Though a fat lota good either of our sticks did," grumbled Heiseima.

"You tried to help when a lot of people would have ran off," said Ami.

"And I thank you" added Momiji. Then she kissed Heiseima. "Don't get your hopes up though, I'm going to give Yoshiki one just like it when I see him too."

Hunter and Senshi decided that was a cue to leave.

"Not much information from my point of view," observed Tom, "Just confirmation of what we all ready know."

"But I bet Ami got a lot more information about the Cardian."

Ami was punching the keys of her computer now. "You're right Makoto. If that creature shows up in a 5 kilometer area, I can now pinpoint it. I'm also getting an idea of the type of energy it was after, but I need to get some readings from the members of that club before I can confirm."

"It would be best if you wait until tomorrow people, they are having a meeting then." a unexpected voice said. Makoto dropped into a Karate stance, Tom suddenly produced a bo staff. Both moved to protect Ami who had her hand on her transformation wand.

Chi stepped around the corner she had hidden behind. "No, I'm not going to attack you, I'm not suicidal. I have an idea of what you have been up to and I want to help. I also want clarification about such terms as Cardian and Senshi. Lets go to my house and talk."

Chapter 5

"OK, I know you will try to deny everything, but let me have my say first. Starting with, Thank You for saving my friends today."

"The Sailor Senshi did the saving today Chi," responded Tom in a guarded tone.

While pointing at the two girls Chi said, "And these two did most of the saving. You two girls are Sailor Mercury and Sailor Jupiter. Don't deny it, I'll explain how I know." She gave a smirk then. "But don't deny your own contribution to the rescue Tom. I would call you by your adventuring name, but unlike a lot of people, you didn't blurt it out for everyone to hear."

Chi stood up and began walking back and forth in a lecturing manner. "Pictures of the Senshi don't come out well, but some things are clear. For example Mercury is known to have blue-black hair and Moon and Venus are blonds. All three shades, while not unknown, are uncommon here in Japan. When the Senshi started to appear I indulged myself in seeing if any of them might be going to my school. I chose Mercury first because she act so much brighter than Moon." This triggered a fit of stifled giggles from Makoto while Ami looked embarrassed. "Now the first thing I did was look at the girls with the same shade of hair color. All but one of the girls in school with that shade were either too tall or wore their hair long. The only one who matched for hair color and length AND for hieght has a very bad temper and Mercury is known to keep her temper well under control. I quickly eliminated anyone here as Sailor Moon using similar logic and I did the same thing as the other Senshi appeared.

By now I was very interested and I decided to devise a method so that if I did get the chance I could deduce who at least one of the

Senshi were. After a bit of thought I again chose Mercury." After a pause Chi gave a genuine smile. "In case you haven't figured it out yet Ami, you are my personal favorite of the Senshi." Again Ami blushed. "OK back to my deductions. Mercury is also know to have a small computer with sensor ability, although how powerful the computer's capabilities are isn't known. Still there are a few pictures of her using it. Funny thing, while the computer's pictures are clear, even when Mercury's image isn't, no one has been able to accurately make a copy of the casing, despite the large amount of marketing going on. By the way, do you get any of that action?" At the others rather hard stare Chi started again. "Sorry for the digression, now were was I? Right, how I know who you are. Now I said that the Senshi-computer is unique, that no one can make a copy of it, yet here we have Ami with either an accurate copy of, or the original of, Sailor Mercury's computer, right down to the cute Mercury symbol. I also saw you aim it at Heiseima and Momiji and the screen reacted. In addition I can lip read and I saw you use the words Senshi, Silver Millenium and Cardian at different times when I followed you. As a suggestion Ami, I would get a cover or something for your computer. Someone not as nice as me might also make the connection if they see it."

Chi's logic was way to tight. Neither Ami or Tom could come up with a logical rebuttal. *She's got us. * they both thought. *And it is unlikely that Mercury would lend such a powerful machine out to a mundane Ami, so that cuts out a line of 'Senshi Auxiliary' BS. * added Tom to himself.

"So what do you want from us?" demanded Makoto as she rose, fists clinched.

Chi made a calming, sit down gesture to the tallest one in the room. "At the moment, nothing. I might want to call in a favor or two later, but it will be nothing you would object to." said Chi, smirk back on her face. "And it won't take to much of your time, at least I hope it doesn't."

"That doesn't quite match your reputation Chi," noted Tom. "Almost everyone in school owes you something, from money to favors of all types. I know you supply Yoshiki with most of his pictures and he's complained more than once about what you charge him. So how do we know we can trust you?"

Chi's smirk was back. "Several reasons. My own self interest for one. I've noticed in stories that people who learn super heroes identities and then try to blackmail them, tend to have very short life spans. I like my skin intact. As for my other reasons...." Chi's smirk disappeared. "That thing may come back. The ones Tom calls the 'Hormone Crew' are my friends. They couldn't handle that monster, you can. I don't want my friends seriously hurt. If I blow your identities, then who ever is behind that thing might be able to get you, then there will be no one to protect them." Chi caught and held each of her guests in her eye for a moment. "I said they are my friends. I don't have too many of them, real friends who accept me as I am. They know that while I'll sell them information or pictures, with the important stuff I will help them for free, and that I don't abuse them or their trust. Selling out the people who could protect them would be abusing that trust."

"We are going to have to tell the other Senshi that you know," said Makoto while Tom and Ami digested what Chi said.

"So what? Frankly Jupiter, oh, sorry Makoto, you or Mars are the ones most likely to try and fry me, and you haven't tried. You don't attack unless you have to. And you ARE the good guys after all."

"We aren't going to tell you who the other Senshi are" announced Ami flatly.

"No problem. Although I suspect I could figure it out. But I give you my word, I will not actively try to find out who the other Senshi are. What's more I promise not to reveille who you are to anyone else, unless you give me specific permission. One thing you should also know about my rep people. I always keep my side of a bargain. And I always keep my word."

A very surprised trio of teenagers gathered outside of the gate to Chi's home.

"Super heroes, that's what she called us." mused Ami. "Well we are, now that you think of it.... But I guess the closest was the realization that we were warriors." distractedly answered Makoto.

"I gather that this is not a normal day, at least by your standards?" quipped Tom.

"A monster attack is sometimes a daily occurrence, but finding you, and what just happened with Chi, no it isn't Bro."

Ami frowned slightly. "Do we still want to see the others victims?"

"I guess so., but you better keep your computer out of sight Ami."

Ami brought up an important point. "And when do we tell the other Senshi? They have all have a right to know. And I want to know what Artemis and Luna think about this."

"How about right now? Show me how this communicator that Luna gave me works.

The two aliens continued to look at the Tree. "What ever it was the energy has is starting to wear off Ann."

"Then let's get some more from the same source. They had been riding that bus, we'll have Kudzu find out tomorrow where it was from and hit the people again tomorrow. Perhaps the Senshi will not be there and we can get all the energy we need."

"Yes, that is the best, tomorrow we will give the Tree a feast!!!"

All three of the searchers explained the need for a meeting. Once all the Senshi where at the temple, Ami, Makoto and Tom took turns reporting what had occurred.

Usagi's face was set in concentration. To everyone's surprise (especially Rei's) she did have some real information to add. "I've heard of this Chi, through Umino. He's not the only gossip monger around, and a lot of them do other things. He says her IQ's not as high as his or Ami's, but she fully uses what she has. She also follows her own code of honor."

Rei's face looked thoughtful. "People like that do tend to keep their word. Still it worries me that someone outside ourselves knows our secret. Usagi, does she really keep her word?"

"According to Umino she does, although she can be very liberal about how she does it. The funny thing is, sometimes the way she keeps her word causes her to help people."

"I wonder what the favor or favors she will ask will be, and if she will want just us who have been compromised or the entire group." pondered Tom out loud.

"We will know when we know. In the meantime lets not worry about our chickens before they hatched." Minako once again misquoted.

"Now onto another matter Oniichan. That sword you carry, can you use it?"

"Yes but not as well as I...." Tom suddenly looked slightly dazed.

"Tom are you OK?" Ami asked the healer part of her rising to the fore (but other emotions as well).

"I.. It..." Tom shook his head some more. "It was like a flashback." He took a few deep breaths. "Yes, I can use the sword, and the crossbow, but ... It's not like you having to transform to access your powers. If I turned into Starhunter and spared with Yoshiki, even though when I'm transformed I'm stronger and faster, he would win, simply because his skill with the sword is greater. But somehow I KNOW that if it was a real duel, or if a monster was attacking, I would be much much better. I also think I won't improve with the sword until my, call it conscious skill level, matches my unconscious level. Same thing with the crossbow."

"What about that attack you used, you called it Something of Jupiter" asked Makoto.

"It's 'Thunder of Jupiter' and it is one of Three Spells I know. Thunder is like combining a flash-bang with a taser. I would most likely knockout a normal, but a monster wouldn't feel much, maybe just get annoyed. But it would be groping around blind and deaf trying to get me."

"So what are the other two Spells you got? If you can show them to us." requested Minako.

"Well, OK, it will give me an excuse to transform. I must admit it is a rush." with that Tom held his ring hand over his head and shouted "In the name of justice I am a Hunter!! I am a Star Hunter!!!!"

Now what Tom didn't know (and no one told him for a while) was the fact that his transformation, while less flashy than the Senshi's, did have something in common with them. In both cases a lot of skin gets exposed.

Minako leaned over to Ami as they watched. "Hey, if you don't want him I'll take him off your hands." she whispered low enough so only the blue-haired Senshi could hear. As she expected Ami started a bit. She was not expecting Ami's comeback, delivered in the same low tones. "Remember what you just said if he ever gets to see any of US transform."

When the sequence was finished, Starhunter stood before them. His voice slightly muffled by his mask he announced: "One Hunter available now. Give me a target and I'll show you my attacks."

Rei lead them to a tree. "It's dead and we are going to have to cut it down soon anyhow. If any of your attacks knock it down it will look natural.

Starhunter nodded. "Alright, first the one Ami and Makoto have seen: THUNDER OF JUPITER!!"

The bolt was startling and a few of those present saw after images for a moment. The noise also caused Usagi to 'eeppp' a bit. What they didn't expect was how far the noise would carry. They heard Yuuichiru calling, obviously worried about Rei. When he appeared the girls were desperately trying to make up a story to explain Starhunter's presence.

"Did you hear were that bang came from Rei?" he asked.

"Not exactly, although it sounded like it came from beyond the temple's grounds, do you want to investigate?" responded Rei, all the while wondering why Yuuichiru hadn't commented on the stranger with a sword.

Yuuichiru rushed off to do just that.

"That's odd, it didn't sound that loud at the battle," came a voice from up in another tree. The girls where amazed, they hadn't heard Starhunter move and couldn't make out his hiding place until he dropped out of the tree. A grin showed in his eyes. "I got another clue as to what I can do ladies. We Hunters were not a powerful as you Senshi, so to compensate we learned to do things a lot sneaker than you'all. Being able to hide real good and quick is part of that."

"Ahhh Yes that's neat Tom I mean Starhunter" stammered Usagi, "Are your other spells as noisy?'

"Nope, the next one is," behind his mask Starhunter grinned as he decided on his target, "MISTS OF MERCURY!"

Usagi was surrounded by a sudden fog, not as thick as the "Shabon Spray" but thick enough to block vision. Usagi started to move forward, thinking that like the Spray friends could see in it. When she bumped into a tree she was proven wrong.

"Like popping a smoke grenade it blocks everyone's vision. Useful to cover a retreat, or if you know the terrain to make a surprise attack."

"Just get rid of it so I don't keep bumping into things!!" shouted Usagi.

"Sorry, couldn't resist. The final spell I'm reluctant to use against the tree Rei. If Thunder caused problems the last one could too."

"Well what is it called?" the priestess asked.

"Fires of Mars. Yes I thought you might like it."

"Hey why don't the other planets have spells?" asked Minako.

"They do, or did Minako. I just don't remember what they were called. And I have a vague memory that being able to do three was quite a gift."

Ami decided to get the conversation back on track. "So you are afraid you might cause a fire with this last spell Starhunter?"

"Yes indeed, it would be a poor thing to do to burn up part of the grounds. That last Thunder WAS louder than I intended, I'm not sure of my control. I'll have to find a junk yard or something so I can practice."

"You mentioned you were stronger as Starhunter, just how strong?" asked Makoto.

"Well... lets find something out. Who of you would most likely loose a feat of strength contest?"

Everyone's eyes turned to Usagi. "You just want to embarrass me again!!" she wailed.

"Nope, if what I think is true, I'm the one who might be embarrassed.

Please transform into Sailor Moon please."

"Turn Around!!" shouted Ami and Minako, with different tones of voice.

Puzzeled, StarHunter complied. Starhunter waited until Sailor Moon was present.

He directed the group to a table and positioned Sailor Moon into the standard arm wrestling position. After explaining the rules he assumed the position as well and had Makoto start them.

It wasn't really a contest, although it was obvious the victor did have to work a bit. All three times, because no one believed the initial outcome.

"I don't understand it. I beat you all three times. I mean it wasn't that easy but it wasn't that hard either" said Sailor Moon.

"That is because the Senshi's power also affected their physical strength as well, how else do you think you can do those jumps to and from rooftops so easily? Whatever my powers source is, it operates at a much lower level. Yours is much higher Sailor Moon. I'm guessing that your physical strength as a Senshi is a boost over your normal strength, in proportion to that normal strength. So Jupiter could beat me with no problem and the rest would fall in some where between you and her."

"Is this going to cause a problem if you fight alongside us?" asked Makoto, cutting off Ami who was about to ask the same question.

"I don't think so, I might not be able to one-shot a monster, but several shots might still do the trick. Plus from a lot of the reports you all tend to soften up a monster then let Sailor Moon finish zapping it."

"We've taken them out on our own before!!" said Minako.

"Remember he's only had incomplete news reports about us" responded Ami, "So there is still a lot he doesn't know about us."

"Let me see if Artemis and I can come up with a training program for him girls," said Luna, "That way we can figure out the best way for him to fight by our sides."

And on that note the meeting closed.

Chapter 6

After the meeting broke up Tom walked with Ami and Makato until they had to turn off to their respective places. There were a few awkward moments when they reached Ami's apartment building.

Tom looked like he wanted to kiss Ami goodnight, but was unsure how she would take it. They settled for an awkward hug. After a similar but much more natural departure at Makato's he started to walk back toward the Endo mansion. A short time later he got that "I'm being watched" feeling again. He stopped and scanned his surroundings. * Unless they are using telephoto lenses there is no place for a person to hide. But it feels close by, that might mean....* "OK you two come on out I know you are watching me. "

Two cats, one black, the other white came out from behind a bush to small for a human to hide behind. "That's a can of tuna fish you owe me Luna" said Artimus. "I thought I still had the knack." Luna groused.

Tom tilted his head to one side. "What where you betting on?"

The black cat sighed. "Seeing you has awakened some of our memories. I think the Queen set things up so that memories that were important to our mission would come available, but there are a lot of associative ones that also popped up. One of the things I remembered when I first saw you was that I was one of the few beings who could sneak up on a conscious Hunter. I bet Artimus that I could still do it."

[Authors personal note: This is just Luna's theory. Personally I like the memory loss due to cold sleep idea]

"And I said she was out of practice. Looks like I was right." Artimus looked smug, the last time he had really gotten something over on Luna was the 'Central Control' bit.

"So what brings you out here now, you could have tried sneaking up on me at some other time."

"I felt we should discuss a few things away from the girls. For example, how much do you remember about the Silver Millenium?"

"Like I told the Senshi while we were in the park, bits and pieces, some important, some not so. I guess my memories of that time are like Swiss cheese."

"Kind of like ours, eh, Luna."

"Yes, but please Tom, don't tell Usagi that I admitted that.

I'll never hear the end of it."

"And Minako would do the same to me."

"That's no problem, if I do start teasing you, just remind me that I'm in the same boat."

Luna cleared her throat. "And another thing is about Ami and Makato."

Tom looked defensive, "If you are worried about me hurting either one of them I would never deliberately do that. I can't speak of accidents, but I would do my utmost to prevent such an accident from happening."

"Good, I thought you two were good for each other then, and I still do now." said Luna, with satisfaction in her voice. "But there are a few things you should now about the here and now."

Tom had a look of great distress. "Oh just great, she already has another boyfriend. My soul waits I don't know how long to see her again and ...."

"Shut up Tom. It is not that bad and I think you are just what she needs. There was another boy, yes. And it might have gotten serious, But with the gap in their memories and such, well it didn't work. And I suspect she had a crush on two older gentlemen as well, but, they just crushes. But she is a bit confused and a bit wary right now. Take it slow. We already have one senshi in turmoil because of her love, I don't want two."

"And what about an ally, doesn't he deserve some consideration too?"

"Yes, that is why I'm telling him. Push too hard and both you and Ami will get hurt. Just follow your heart."

"That is what I've resolved to do from the moment I saw her and remembered." They walked along for a while longer. "What about Makato? And what did you mean by that then and now remark?"

"Makato falls in and out of love so fast it is almost funny. But she also has a friend named Shinozaki. She will do almost anything to protect him, including giving blood and then going into combat to avenge him."

"So what you are saying that I might have to share my 'sister'. No problem, Makato told me that she had a much larger family during that time. I have a vague impression of having many adopted brothers as well. I'll try and be aware of the situation. Now answer the second question if you can."

"Up until the time you arrived at court, Ami's previous incarnation had problems with how she looked. Phoebe told me that she felt then that people were only interested in her brain, that no one would come to her except to get answers to problems. I don't remember what you did, or how you did it, but she started to blossom once you got on the scene. The fact that you two never got a chance was just one of the many tragedies of the fall."

"I'll try to better this time around. But assuming she looks the same now as she did back in the Silver Millenium, why she wasn't satisfied with her looks back then is a mystery to me."

They walked along for a while longer. Now it Artimus who broke the silence.

"I also think that you should get to know the others better this time around. We are so few that we have to depend very much on each other. Get to know Minako, Rei and Usagi as well. You will also have to give them space so they can do their girl things."

"I've got a sister who is the same age as the Senshi Artimus, I get the idea. Still it's a pity I can't tell her about you two. Sammi likes cats (actually my whole family does) and she would love to met you two, once she got over freaking out."

"You haven't yet."

"That will most likely happen when I wake up in the morning.

Still the life of a military brat teaches you to be adaptable."

"You're certainty handling it better than Usagi did when she first became Sailor Moon"

Luna then told the story of Usagi's first transformation. Tom was still chuckling some when he reached the Endo mansion and a servant let him in.

"I think we are ready now" announced the President. He had be inscribing a intricate pentagram on the meeting room floor. It was drawn correctly, but for what they were going to try to summon (a very minor spirit) it was like going duck hunting with light machine guns. Still they could be sure that it wasn't going to get out.

Tom was sitting quietly in one corner. He had indeed spent the whole morning quietly freaking out over the past day's events.

"I'm a reborn cop, for lack of a better term. I fall in love with a girl at first sight, only it's not exactly first sight in our case. She is also reborn, a member of a group of girls who fight monsters regularly, something I'm most likely going to be doing myself. I'm sitting here in the watching a group of magician wantabees, who might be a target of one of said monsters, and I don't know if I want the thing to show up or not."

Tom sat there examining part of his feelings. * I don't want it to show up, but not because I'm afraid of fighting it. I'm worried about the innocent, the ones I'm still sworn to protect. At least Ami is going to show up too."

Ami was riding the bus to get to Tom's school. As she stared out the window she stayed lost in thought. For once however the thoughts were not of school, or how to solve the Senshi's current problem. * This is all so confusing. I know Uwaria doesn't remember me, and he's found another. Tom obviously feels what ever we had during the Silver Millenium. Did I have this same problem back then? Or did I have it easier? *

Sighing she shifted position. * I best go slow. It took a lot for Usagi and Mamoru to get together before the end. She feels it's worth it because she wants to get him back now. Would I go through as much for Tom? * Then in her mind's eye she saw the glances Tom had given her through out the day they met. It was similar to the looks Yuuichiru had for Rei. * I think so, I hope so. And I hope he would do the same for me.*

Tom leaned forward, despite the fact that he now had magical powers, and had recently made friends with a group of Magical Girls, this was the first time he was seeing any form of magic being cast. * Something tells me the way they are doing it is overkill. But better too many protections than not enough. *

Someone else was also feeling the flow of energy. "A summoning, poorly shielded and leaking a lot of power!!! And it tastes like what the Masters want!!" thought Kudzu * I must get it!!" With that the Cardian started to track the energy flows.

* Well, they are certainty enthusiastic, in a Japanese way * Tom thought. * An American Group would be doing 'High Fives' and such. But that, spirit? * Tom looked much closer. The summoned being looked humanoid but also very miserable. It poked one hand to the edge of the circle. A spark appeared and it .retreated to the center of the circle whimpering.

* Unless that is a great act that being is just suffering. If they don't release it soon I'm going to try and make them to let it go. Although I should be glad they weren't dumb enough to try and summon a demon. That I would have sabotaged so quick. * Tom sat back for a moment. * I do have that knowledge. What a surprise. I wonder what else my past life is going to spring on me and when. * The reborn Hunter was still puzzling on this when the wall collapsed and Kudzu appeared.

"You shall give me your energy, pathetic wizard wantabees!!" snarled the Cardian. Naturally the club members went into a panic, giving Kudzu the chance to start grabbing them one by one.

* Can't fight her like this, need to change and get back up. *

One quick transformation later and StarHunter had his communicator in hand and using the all call key.

"That Cardian is back!! She's at my school and draining the Magic/Occult club. I need any of you who can get here ASAP!"

"Hold on StarHunter! I'm at the bus stop right now!" said Ami into her communicator. She could hear the other Senshi acknowledge the call for help while she looked for, and found, a place to transform.

Kudzu was doing the "monster gloat" when StarHunter got back to the scene. The first the Cardian knew of his presence was when his sword cut two of the victims free. "Hey I thought the Sailor Senshi and their friends made a big speech before fighting!?!"

"I'm new at this OK?" StarHunter said as he cut a third victim free.

"New huh? Well you aren't going to get much more experience.

What is your name, so I can tell it to my masters."

"I am StarHunter!! And my prey are those who would harm the innocent!!" * Did I really say that? I've been hanging around Yoshiki to much *

"Well it is the end of the hunt for you StarHunter!!" the Cardian said as she sent a barrage of vines toward him. He dodged the initial volley. "Beat Feet you three!! Help is on the way, direct them here!!" The three freed Occult/Magic Club members staggered out.

* Three less to worry about. * he thought laying around with his sword as many more vines sought to surround him and choke him.

"Nice moves pajama-boy, but can you keep it up forever?"

"I'll do it as long as necessary!!" StarHunter fired off a "Thunder of Jupiter". While the Cardian was blinded she caused the vines nearest her to beat the air furiously keeping the Hunter from following up his attack.

However his goal this time was to free more trapped students. He got a few free before his foes sight returned. Then he was back to buying time.

* That was the "Thunder of Jupiter" * Sailor Mercury thought running toward the sound. Outside the hall one of the freed students had stayed to direct any help (the others had simply beat feet).

"That way!! Some guy calling himself StarHunter is in there all alone and there are a lot of people still inside."

* Hang in there Tom. *

"Ha. I've already gotten some energy from these fools, lets see how my masters likes yours." gloated Kudzu. The leafy Cardian had noticed how StarHunter was trying to protect and free the club members, so she had faked strangling one of them.

When he responded she had sent so many vines at him that he couldn't stop them all. The fact that she had to let a few students go was of no matter as she let go of ones that were to drained to move.

"Got to get free. Didn't use Flames 'cause it might hurt hostages. Got to try..." But StarHunter didn't need to use the "Flames of Mars."

Sailor Mercury attacked. "Shabon Spray!!!"

Many of the vines started to whiter away. * Of course, it must be a tropical plant she's based on. The cold of the 'Spray' must really hurt it. * Quickly she located StarHunter. "Are you OK?"

"Will be in a moment. Draining can really get nasty doesn't it?"

"Yes, are you in any condition to fight?"

"Not hand to hand, but at range? Yes." Quickly he explained his plan.

Kudzu felt a pin prick, then another. Someone was shooting arrows at her! "Fools, you are too far away, and your bow to weak to effect me."

* Maybe so but it will distract you until Ami can get the victims free." The Shabon Spray had also numbed the Cardian's connection to it's vines. It didn't notice Sailor Mercury's actions, especially with StarHunter playing sniper in the mists.

"I've got them all free now To..StarHunter and there is a surprise for both of you. A good one for you, bad for her."

Mercury dispelled the fog. As the room cleared the remaining Senshi were revealed.

"We are the Sailor Senshi!!" shouted Sailor Moon. "After School clubs are for fun and joy! I will not allow you to disturb this one further! On behest of the Moon..."

"Mars..."

"Venus..

"Jupiter.."

"And Mercury!!"

"We will punish you!!" the finished as one.

"Bah! Your all wet! Bye!" said the Cardian as it slammed the fire alarm, causing it to turn on the sprinkler system. The now slick floor kept the Senshi from pursuing.

However the Cardian had one last thing to say. "You've doomed yourself when you allied with the Senshi StarHunter. I will destroy you when I next see you!"

The girls were fussing over Tom. He just discovered that bruises earned while StarHunter did not completely go away.

"Look, I'm as fine as I'm going to be. What we need to do is try and find out what the enemy's next move is going to be.

"All I've been able to do is fine tune the detector program. The prediction program still is glitching out." said Ami as she put away the light she was using to check Tom's pupils.

"Then it is up to me I guess," said Rei. "Tom you are about to see your first fire reading."

Rei continued to do her chant, asking for help from the fire-kami. Suddenly, visible to all was Yoshiki, Heiseima, Sahari and Momiji.

"They must be in danger of a second attack" said Rei. We must protect them." But try as she might, she couldn't get any more details.

"The Tree is not responding as it did earlier" said Ann

"There must be something missing," mused Ali, "Cardian Kudzu, were all from the previous attack present?"

"No Master, some were missing."

"Find them, drain their energy, but save some of this as a reserve. I want to see if the mix is important or just those missing."

"It shall be done."

Chapter 6

"So we know that your friends are the Cardian's next target," said Rei as she finished the fire reading.

Makato was pleased. "And we will be ready for it this time!!" she said cracking her knuckles.

Ami shook her head. "Actually we do have a few problems folks, like the fact that we go to different schools."

Tom nodded. "And the fact that I don't have classes with all of them. So we are going to have to work out some way of watching them and then giving a quick response."

Minako frowned slightly. "That means you are going to have to hold the fort until we get there Tom. None of us like doing that."

"Can't be helped Minako. Rei, I'm new at this, so tell me, when you do a fire reading do you see actual or probable events, or is what we saw symbolic?"

The priestess shook her head. "It depends on what the Fire-kami want to tell me Tom. This time though it felt like an event."

"Hmmmmm while they all share classes, there isn't a single class that they are all in at the same time, except Lunch. So they might get attacked then or after school."

"While I don't like to make the suggestion, perhaps we should go off campus to your school for lunch," suggested Ami.

Usagi cheered her approval for that plan. However she subsided when Makato pointed out that "You are going to have to make sure you're on time or else you're going to get another detention."

Luna gave a sigh. "I'll make it a point to get her there girls. Minako, Rei do you have any problems with getting away during lunch?"

"Nope and with a note from Grandpa I don't have to worry about sneaking out. I'll just tell him the truth, it is to do follow-up on someone who wanted a fire reading."

"And I can be as silent as the smoke." responded Minako.

"It's done then, what do we do to keep an eye out for them if that Plant-thing attacks outside of lunch?"

Luna cleared her throat. "Artemis and I can cover that, and contact you if needed."

"Great guys and I just thought of a way that can get us a little more surveillance capability."

The girls looked at Tom, who just looked smug.

==============

"OK Chi, I know it will cost me a bit, but I would like some help."

You could almost see the yen signs in Chi's eyes. "Just what kind of help?"

"It's special business, the type that Ami, Makato and myself are involved in."

The look changed slightly, from "charge what the market will bear" to "minimal charge to keep my reputation". Sighing slightly she asked, "What do you need?"

"Some of your people to keep an eye on them, if that creature reappears, I want you to have them call this beeper number, and then get out of there."

"No problem, I'll only charge you the cell phone time plus 1000 yen"

"Good enough. Now I want an idea of the favor your going to asking us for."

"I though having two of the Senshi show up at our next fund raiser might be a big boost. Maybe sign autographs or something. I'm not going to advertise it because it's more than possible you'll get called for something."

"I'll ask. Jupiter might not mind, but Mercury doesn't always like the limelight.

"I will strike during the noon meal master, mistress." the Cardian announced.

"Why not earlier in the day?" asked Ali.

"It may take too much time to find each one at that school, however I believe they eat lunch together so they will be in one place. Plus I can drain others as well."

"Do it!!" the aliens commanded.

"Here is your fee Chi, thanks."

"No problem and Your welcome. I assume that you want the surveillance to start again after lunch?"

"Yes please."

"Oh and do you know anything about two cats running around?"

"Maybe, why?"

"Janitor doesn't like them, or dogs for that matter. If they are the two that have been spotted around Sailor Venus and Sailor Moon, then you might want to take precautions."

"I'll keep that in mind."

Tom scanned his surroundings, he had managed to spot Artemis and give him the word about the janitor. The white mooncat had in turn told him about where the Senshi had gathered. After a moment he felt his heart jump a little when he saw Ami. She waved him over to where she sat under a tree, a picnic basket by her side.

"Where are the others? Did Usagi get a detention?" Then he got that "I'm being watched" feeling.

Casually looking up into the tree he saw the famous Sailor Moon stuffing her face from a picnic basket. At that moment the glamor totally crashed and he had no trouble recognizing her as Usagi. Sailors Mars and Venus were also eating but not with the same degree of fanaticism.

"And Minako had to get something from the restroom," Ami said noticing his look. "So we are all here. Sorry we didn't tell you earlier,but when I got home I realized that we might run into Chi while we are here. It is bad enough she knows about the three of us, but I realized that if the rest of the Senshi showed up as our real selves she would make the connection.

"And that would make things even more complicated. Good thinking Ami-chan." Tom froze for a moment, realizing exactly what he had said. Ami blushed a little while there were some stifled giggles from above.

"Did I miss anything while I was away?" asked Makato as she returned carrying a bottle of a kool-aid like drink.

"Only Tom calling Ami 'Ami-chan'" staged whispered Minako. Ami blushed even harder. Tom looked like he was going to match her.

Makato gave a small smile and nodded. "Good for you two, sorry I missed it. Now Tom try this." With that she shoved one of her culinary creations into his mouth.

After several such samples Tom managed to clear his mouth. "You know Makato, I would dearly love to see a cooking contest between you, my mother, and my sister. I'm not surprised about Sammi being good, but Mom didn't learn to cook until after she married Dad."

"Who is better?" Usagi asked.

"That's why I said see, not judge. If I did judge I would be in the same shape as Paris."

"Who?" asked every one but Ami, who just grinned. "That's a very apt description Tom."

"Just who is Paris? I just thought it was the capital of France," asked Makato.

"He was the person who started the Trojan war. He was asked to judge a beauty contest between three goddess and the mortal Helen. He chose Helen, then later kidnapped her. The three goddess got ticked and all actively helped the Greeks defeat the Trojans. I have no desire to get three cooking goddess mad at me."

While this was going on Kudzu was searching for her targets. She was tempted to just start gathering energy, but knew her masters would be displeased if she didn't get the right energy first.

It was taking longer than she thought, there were a lot to students and she had to remain concealed. But finally near the end of the period she had found her targets.

Chi was a bit worried. She had deduced that Tom had wanted coverage of the Hormone crew because of a possible monster attack and the presence of the two strange cats appeared to confirm her feelings. She had eaten sparsely at lunch due to her nervousness. Which was disappointing because Sahari had brought some food and was sharing it. As the lunch period neared its end Chi hoped that she was worried about nothing.

Of course that was when Kudzu attacked.

They were discussing what to do to protect the Hormone crew after school when Luna came bounding up.

"I'm getting vibrations, I think the Cardian is about to....." on cue the screams started. "....make it's move" she finished

"Hurry and transform you three, we'll met you there!!" shouted Sailor Venus as she took the point, Sailor Mars right behind her (and urging Sailor Moon to hurry up).

Ami pointed to the other side of the tree. "Do you mind Tom?"

"OK, but you are going to have to tell me why someday."

A quick change and three more warriors raced to enter the fray.

Kudzu had managed to get all four of the hormone crew plus Chi. The Cardian was enjoying the feeling of power and was just noticing that when she acted like she was going to do harm to one of them, the others would increase their struggles, and therefore their energy output. She was just trying to decide in what order she would start really abusing them when she heard a voice.

"Hey wooden head!!"

"Oh real original Sailor Moon," muttered Sailor Mars.

"Lunch break is one of the best times of the day. A time for everyone to relax and have a good time. How dare you ruin it, especially for a group of friends. In the name of the Moon, and good food and friends We will punish you!!" At that Moon, Mars and Venus took their poses.

Kudzu did not look impressed. "I was hoping that you would show up Sailor Senshi my masters have complained often about you. And now I am prepared so there will be no running away. Where are the rest so I can eliminate all of you plus that annoying pajama clad fool."

"We are right here you Weed!! Jupiter and Mercury are more than ready to trash you!!" Jupiter took her pose followed by Mercury.

At that the Senshi found themselves stealing glances at the only person who had not introduced himself, StarHunter. Even the Cardian appeared to be waiting for something. He stood for a moment, looking like he was thinking of something to say (that and wondering why he felt compelled to say something dramatic).

In the manner of a politician StarHunter said,"I have come, to help the Sailor Senshi" at that he paused dramatically. His next words startled everyone. "Kick ass." Oddly enough Sailors Mercury and Jupiter felt they knew he was going to try something like this. Jupiter actually started to bring her hands up to start the "Supreme Thunder" as StarHunter continued. "And chew bubblegum," at that StarHunter started feeling around his costume. He shrugged, but Jupiter and Mercury noticed that one hand was very close to his sword hilt. "I'm all out of bubblegum," he announced. Then he suddenly drew his sword and attacked.

Jupiter threw the Thunder and nailed the Cardian. StarHunter took the opportunity to score several sword slashes on the monster.

Kudzu howled in frustration. The little ninja-ninny was once again hacking away at her vines and that hurt!! Plus he looked like he was going to free the captives again. And that bolt Sailor Jupiter threw, it hurt worse than what StarHunter was doing.

But the one that worried her the most was Sailor Mercury. The cold that her bubble attack produced could wither many of her vines and interfere with her control of other plants. She had to be taken out of the fight fast.

Well she had an extra captive that she had no particular instructions about. Still howling she threw Chi right into Mercury. Mercury braced to catch the girl but the attack was too sudden. She did manage to keep Chi from slamming into anything, but the force drove her back. She tripped backwards, and hit her head on a stone, knocking her out.

"Mercury!!" the others shouted, distracting StarHunter. Kudzu then slammed him into the pile up.

"Fire Soul!!" shouted Mars, then she gasped, she had started some additional blazes that were threatening the hostages and those onlookers who hadn't fled.

"Try playing with some of your own fire now!!" shouted the Cardian, causing the burning vines to wrap around Mars. The flames were not at her yet but they were getting closer.

"Turnabout is in the rules," called out Venus, "Crescent Beam!!" with that she used her powers to slice open a water pipe, putting out the fire. Unfortunately Kudzu use the chance to bind her and Sailors Moon and Jupiter.

"I'll slowly squeeze the life from you five, then I'll get that annoying blue-clad full to view your bodies before I kill him!!"

StarHunter was swimming back into the land of the living. He was aware that he was in a pile of bodies and one of them was "Mercury!!"

He had dropped his sword when he had been thrown, he franticly looked for it was vines started toward him. He found it but it looked like he was going to get tied up with the Senshi. Then a white rose flew through the air, slicing them before they could reach him.

"Welcome StarHunter, I am the Moonlight Knight. It is good not to be the only man around this group now (Artemis couldn't keep himself from muttering something). Your courage does you great credit, but remember to use your mind as well. The solution to defeat this monster is not totally with the one you love. Free the proper one and this weed will be exterminated. Farewell."

* Mercury is out of it for a few minutes at least, I got enough in me to free one of the tied up ones, but who? Mars can't fry her for the same reason I can't use my fires, Venus' attack is too pinpoint, that just leaves.... Of course."

"Mists of Mercury!!!" with that the area was in a cloud.

"That will only delay the end slightly StarHunter!!" StarHunter said nothing, making a beeline to the position he had memorized just before summoning the Mists. He moved silently and quickly not showing where he was going to. Then suddenly he was striking furiously at the vines, in several directions at once. The Cardian couldn't figure out what he was up to.

"Catch your breath then do your thing, I'll buy more time." he whispered to the one he freed.

It wasn't much time though, and soon he was caught.

"And now I have you for the last time!!"

"You got that right weedhead, Moon Princess Halitation!!" shouted Sailor Moon

In a fury of energy the Cardian was trapped and destroyed. The Senshi who had been trapped breathed a sigh, while Mercury groaned back awake. "But Mom I'm well enough to go to school" Usagi and Makato were going to have fun with that line for weeks.

They were checking Mercury out when suddenly StarHunter snatched at his crossbow.

"Don't bother, we will be gone before you could fire anyhow," sneered Ali.

Ann laughed for a moment. "We just wanted to see what kind of loser would hang around the Sailor Failures, now we know. Your going down with all your little girlfriends, count on it. Bye for now. with that, they teleported away.

"Well that is one more monster out of the way!!" crowed Minako after school and they were all back together again.

Rei nodded. "And it is good to have your help Tom. Even the Moonlight Knight said something to that effect."

"Yep, although I'm still puzzled over his weapons. Usagi are you sure you saw both Him and Mamoru in the same place??"

"Yes I'm sure. I'm not a complete ditz you know."

"Just a 85% one," muttered Rei.

"There is something else though Tom," said Makato, ignoring the argument now breaking out between Rei and Usagi, "you have got to work on your opening lines. I mean 'Kick ass and chew bubblegum?"

Tom looked slightly offended. "Hey Sis, it worked didn't it? It allowed me to get close, and buy time for you and the others to build up your attacks."

"But it isn't us!! It sounded like something an American Wrestler would say," added Minako.

"Well I _AM_ an American, and how do you know about American Wrestling anyhow?"

Ami had been keeping quiet through out the discussion. She was still wondering on the fact that she, and she assumed Makato as well, had almost known what Tom was going to do. "Still", she added, "We do have an image to maintain."

"Hmmmmm. Well let's try this one on for size." Tom raised his finger dramatically and quoted, "I am the terror...."

Usagi stopped her argument with Rei, picked up a round pillow, and proved she could still accurately throw discuss shaped objects. She nailed Tom right in the mouth.

Removing the object Tom shrugged, "OK how about a different delivery." Now he held his arm in front of him like he had a cape. Once again he said "I am the Terror....."

Makato hit him with a very large pillow.

Gamely Tom pressed on. "That Strikes in the night."

Ami, Minako and Rei exchanged glances. They all picked up a pillow and attacked Tom.

It was a valiant fight, even though he was outnumbered 5 to 1 (even with Rei and Usagi having several "friendly fire" incidents.) but in the end he had to acknowledge defeat.

Ami and Tom where still laughing from the pillow fight. As they were leaving, it sounded like it just might be starting again.

"That was a lot of fun Tom. I know you didn't plan it, but you were the trigger."

"Want to have some more fun?"

"What?"

"How about a movie and what ever, the amusement park, or maybe one of the museums that charges admission, if you haven't been to one."

"Your serious?"

Tom looked right into her eyes. "Completely"

"I accept."

Well thanks for reading and I hoped you enjoyed this story.

A few of you might have noticed that the people I called the Hormone Crew have a resemblance to some of the Cast of Ranma.

This is because I started this story just before I decided to join SME. After a bit of thought I decided to match this to our shared universe. So out went Ranma, Akane, Ukyou, Nabiki, and Kuno. In came Heiseima, Momiji, Sahari, Chi and Yoshiki. A few tweaks and there you have it.