Story: Time never stops (all chapters)

Tokyo, Outer's mansion 

Setsuna Meioh was a lonely woman. It didn't bother her that much because she knew it was her destiny. And who would be stupid enough to fight ones destiny? Even tough she kept telling that to herself, the sadness and loneliness could be seen in her eyes when she let her guard down. None of the Inners haven't noticed this of course, being too busy with their own love lives: Usagi had her Mamoru, Minako and Rei had each others same as Ami and Makoto. Other Outers knew that there was more to Setsuna than she let to be seen but they never forced her to talk about it. They knew that Setsuna would talk to them if she needed. And Setsuna liked it that way. She didn't want to talk about it, she just wanted to forget. But at the same time she knew she couldn't.

 It had been over four years since Usagi had defeated Galaxia. It had been over one year since Haruka and Michiru had got married. Hotaru was growing up fast, eagerly waiting to be reunited with Chibiusa some time in the future. For those reasons Setsuna had started to feel like an intruder in her own home. Soon Hotaru wouldn't need them to be her parents -at least not in the way she used to. And being with Haruka and Michiru felt like being the third wheel of an otherwise perfect bike.  

This troubled Setsuna more and more every day. The more she tried not to think the more she thought about it. She knew she would never find the love of her life. She didn't even want to try, because she knew that if she would fall in love with a mortal she would have to see them getting old and dying. And there was no one single left in their senshi family, even the Starlights were gone.

 So she had made a promise to herself not to even think about that kind of things. Setsuna sighed and rose to sit. No matter what, it was a new day and she had to get up and start to live. Life would go on, lovers or no lovers.  

Tokyo, train station 

A lonely figure stepped out of the train. Her face was covered with hood and her coat seemed to be too much for such a warm and sunny day like that.  This girl, woman to be precise, looked around carefully before continuing her way out of the Tokyo train station. She looked around for a taxi but there was none. Instead she saw IT again. There it was, amongst the crowd, sniffling air like a beast searching for its prey. It looked like a human but the girl had seen its true form, which was far from human.  

''God, not here too.'' She whispered.  

Quickly she hurried opposite way and broke to run as soon as she tought it couldn't see her anymore.  

After what felt like miles she stopped in a park gasping for air and looked around. No creature was anywhere to be seen nor any other living soul. She sighed in relief and thanked god. Her joy was cut sharply as the creature formed out of nowhere before her. She screamed but she knew it was too late. She didn't have the strength to fight anymore and she didn't have the will to run anymore. She knew she was going to die here and now. Why in the world this creature chose to ambush her? She was nothing, she was no one and yet it seemed that the creature wouldn't give up before it could dance on her grave. 

Creature's attack came fast, she didn't even see it coming. She flew through the air for its impact and hit the ground hard but she didn't even feel the new surge of pain, her old wounds ached far more worse. She couldn't believe it, everything felt so surreal. She was too young to die. She hadn't got to do anything she wanted, she even hadn't been in love once or at least she didn't remember. And now she was dying. Alone. In the hands of some ugly unearthly monster. It was just too much. 

She gathered all her remaining strength and stood up. Slowly she dropped her jacket on the ground, underneath she wore simple skirt and shirt. Old bruises could be seen easily underneath, all souverines from this creature who just wouldn't leave her alone.. She took her fighting stance and the creature waited her attack. Instead the girl started to laugh hysterically.  Her laugh turned into desperate scream as she was about to lose her sanity. Monster stopped for a moment to see if this was some kind of new attack. When nothing happened it attacked the girl again.  

She kept screaming all the time as the monster started to beat her with its incredible powers, it was a pure miracle that her body had lasted this long. She screamed and prayed to gods be somewhere else, anywhere else than there and then. She just wanted to get away so badly, she could feel how her life force started slip out of her body as she tried to block the blows in vain.  

''No!!'' She screamed, ''I HAVE HAD ENOUGH!!'' And with that she felt a sudden surge of energy going trough her body, filling her with some strange force.  

The creature was thrown of her by an invisible aura that came out of the girl. A strange symbol appeared on the girls forehead, glowing with bright light. And then she was gone. The creature looked around confused trying to locate her.  

Tokyo, Outer's mansion 

Setsuna was pouring a cup of coffee for herself. It was rather fine morning and the day seemed to become quite enjoyable. Michiru was already eating breakfast while Hotaru and Haruka were still sleeping. Suddenly Setsuna felt it - an intruder at the gates of time. It hadn't happened since Small Lady, the Inner senshi and Tuxedo Kamen had tried to get to the future years ago. It even shouldn't be possible; no one other than her had the ability to travel in time and all their past enemies SHOULD be gone. She dropped the coffee mug she was holding. It seemed as if It dropped and hit the ground in slow motion breaking up into pieces while Setsuna took out her transformation pen and called the power of her guardian planet.

 Michiru heard the crack and turned around to see the cause of it. She gasped as she saw Setsuna transforming into Sailor Pluto.  

She quickly took her own pen out and shouted ''What's wrong?''.  

Sailor Pluto turned to face her and said dead calmly ''Nothing to worry, this is something only I can take care of.''  

With that and a wave of her staff she was gone. Michiru stared after her worriedly but she trusted Setsuna and put her pen away trying to calm down.  

Time Vortex, the Gates of time 

A figure lay on the ground. She had no idea why the creature had stopped beating her, though she had been sure that she was as good as dead. Slowly she opened her eyes and gasped. There was nothing, expect mist. She had no idea how she had gotten in there. Then she heard noise. Familiar noise.  

''No it couldn't be..'' she whispered.

 It was just great, she was in some weird place, even more alone than before with that creature. She could see it with difficulty and hear it clearly. She hoped it couldn't see or hear her so she stayed on the ground, though she was too tired to get up anyway. 

Then suddenly another figure appeared out of nowhere. She only could make out figure's profile and she couldn't tell whether it was another creature or something else. 

''No one is allowed to be in the Gates of time. You have broken the taboo. Prepare to die.'' colorless voice said. 

'It doesn't sound like that creature.' she thought confused and stared the scene taking place in front of her.

The creature turned to face the figure but it was too late.  Only thing that she heard was a whisper ''DEAD SCREAM'', then a sudden. yet powerful blast of energy flew through the air and tore up the creature.

 She gasped and started to shake in fear, she didn't understand how someone could be that powerful. She just couldn't believe her own eyes. In mere seconds this person had wiped away the creature that had been torturing her for weeks, or was it months, she wasn't sure anymore. 'This must be some sick dream.' she tought but at the same time she was delighted that the horrible monster was gone. That joy turned into panic when she realised that the person was heading in to her direction. 'Why they don't give me break?!' she thought desperately, 'I hope he is one of the good guys but with my luck that is hardly the case'. 

She tried to stay still and quiet but the person seemed to know exactly where she was. She was so beaten up that she couldn't stand so she tried to crawl away but in vain. Then the person was right in front of her. Her jaw dropped. Her pursuer was the most beautiful woman she had ever seen, and she seemed to be in some kind of sexy sailor style outfit. Her nose started to bleed but she didn't even notice, she was absolutely enchanted by this beautiful woman. In mere seconds she forgot all the hardships that had taken place in past few weeks. 

''No one is allowed to be in the Gates of time. You have broken the taboo. Prepare to die.''  

She realised that the woman had said something but it took a moment for her brain to register what she had said. Her eyes widened in fear when the woman raised her staff.  

''Wha-?! Wait! No! Please don't kill me! Please don't! I didn't want to come here! It was an accident! And I don't know how to get out! Please, I'm too young to die! Haven't they done enough!'' She rambled crying and raised her hand to defend herself, though she knew it was ridiculous considering the power of her pursuer's attack.

Life was so unfair, that woman had killed the evil creature so isn't she supposed to be one of the good guys? She knew her pleas were propably a waste of breath because the creature had felt no mercy but this person didn't seem like a monster and she didn't want to die. 

--- 

Sailor Pluto looked the crying woman on the ground and she knew she couldn't kill her. It wasn't just the fact that years spent with Usagi and the Inners had softened her but she also somehow believed that this woman was telling the truth (besides she just wasn't so cold hearted like everybody thought). But the weirdest thing was when she had killed that creature it had felt like the intruder was gone, though she still sensed this girl there but her staff didn't seem to consider her as an intruder. Somehow it felt like this girl had every right to be there but that was again just absurd and impossible since no one was allowed to be in the Gates of time. She tried to look into the time line but she couldn't see this girl there, it was like she was invicible or something. That left many questions unanswered but that, however, had to wait because the girl seemed badly injured.

 Sailor Pluto knelt down and touched gently the crying girl who still tried to crawl away while begging for mercy.  Sailor Pluto forced the girl to face her and saw pure fear in her eyes.  

''Please, calm down. I won't kill or hurt you.'' She said thinking that musn't sound really convincing because just minutes ago, she had threatened to kill her.  

For some unknown reason the girl seemed to believe her and calmed down but her tears didn't stop immediately. On her forehead she had symbol just like Sailor senshi had but she didn't have any planetary or star symbol on it.  Instead she had the simple version of the wheel of zodiac. When the girl relaxed the symbol faded away and Setsuna wasn't sure if she had seen right.

 ''We have to get out of here, your injuries have to be treated.''

 After hearing that the girl looked extremely relieved. 'What on Earth had happened to her.' Sailor Pluto pondered while trying to help her to get up but the girl was too weak to stand and started to fall back on the ground. Quickly Sailor Pluto grabbed her in her arms and started to carry her back to the Gates of time. The girl relaxed in her arms and Sailor Pluto felt warmth washing over her. Somehow she wanted to protect this girl though she didn't even know who she was.

  ''Umm..What is your name?'' The girl asked after gathering courage.  

Setsuna blinked and decided to tell her Sailor name instead.

 ''Sailor Pluto. And yours?'' The girl seemed puzzled by her name but didn't say anything about it.  

'' Mm.. I'm not sure but I guess it is Yui Aeon.'' Sailor Pluto's eyes widened.

 ''Your last name is Aeon?'' She asked ignoring how the girl couldn't be sure what her name was.

 ''Yeah, It's not Japanese name though. I don't know my parents so I don't know if they were Europeans or something, 'cause that name means in Latin 'Eternal Time' or something like that. Cool, eh?''  

''Yes.'' Sailor Pluto answered absentmindedly.  

If she hadn't been so busy in her thoughts she would have noticed that the girl sounded a much like Minako even though she seemed a bit older than her.  

''You must be really strong 'cause you can carry me so easily.'' Yui continued her chat. 

Sailor Pluto was really close to blush but managed to control it and answered ''Well, um, you see I train a lot.''.  

Yui seemed pleased with her answer and didn't ask more. The walk back to the Gates continued in silence. 

''Um..'' Yui started again suddenly.  

Sailor Pluto asked smiling ''Yes?''

 ''Th-thank you. You saved my life back there big time.''  

Sailor Pluto looked down to Yui and for the first time she noticed how absolutely gorgeus she was. She had bright green eyes and rather long red hair. She was a little shorter than herself but still she was rather tall and she seemed to be in her mid-twenties like Setsuna's physical age was. Sailor Pluto tried to banish that kinds of thoughts from her mind.

 ''You're welcome.'' Sailor Pluto whispered and Yui closed her eyes smiling and drifted to sleep while mumbling ''I can't believe that I was saved.''.  

Setsuna continued her way trough the Gates of time thinking hard what all this could mean.  

Tokyo, Outer's mansion 

Sailor Pluto walked trough the Gates of time back to her home while transforming back to Setsuna Meioh. Three pairs of eyes stared her in shock.  

Michiru dropped the plate she had been washing, Hotaru dropped the sandwich she had been eating and Haruka said smirking ''Eh, did you went to hunt innocent women? Ah, that one will make a fine wife to you, but surely you didn't have to drug he-''  

*WHACK*

 ''Ouch! What was that for?'' Haruka asked her wife who held a day old magazine in her hand.  

''Like you don't know.'' She said angrily. 

 ''Honey, haven't I said that these kind of activities must be performed in our bedr-''  

*WHACK WHACK*  

''Ouch!!! Okay okay I was just kidding.'' Michiru glared her angrily, ready to punch her more with the magazine if necesserily, Haruka tried to look as cool as possible and Hotaru just rolled her eyes.  

Setsuna cleared her throat, she was about to loose her temper and that was really rare, considering she lived with the Outers and knew the Inners. But enough was always enough and she really needed help rather than this circus. 

 ''WOULD ANYONE OF YOU CONSIDER HELPING ME TO TAKE CARE OF THIS WOUNDED GIRL ANYTIME SOON?''  

Other Outers looked her in shock. They had never heard Setsuna being so noisy.  

''Please?'' She added as an afterthought. 

They nodded quickly in unison fearing what Setsuna might do beside just talking loudly. Setsuna just sighed and shook her head. 

''Now that I have your attention: Haruka would you call Ami and ask if she could come by, after all she is med school student and might be able to help. Michiru would you come with me, we have to find out whether or not she needs medical care in hospital.''

 Just then Yui regained consciousness and muttered ''Aa..No hospitals...'' and drifted off again.

 ''We will see about that. Hotaru could you come with us and try to use your healing abilities on her?'' Setsuna asked.

 ''Sure thing.'' she answered smiling. 

Setsuna started to carry Yui upstairs followed by Michiru and Hotaru as Haruka went to call Ami. Suddenly Setsuna stopped and turned to face Michiru.  

''Has Haruka repaired the guestroom's heating yet?'' she asked. 

''No she haven't got time. You know how she puts her car ahead of everything else.'' Michiru answered smiling. 

Setsuna sighed, it looked like she hadn't choice. 

''Umm.. Then she can stay in my room, it is lather large so it shouldn't be a problem.'' 

Michiru raised an eyebrow. And then Setsuna finally blushed, all the years of training to look cool was washed down the toilet in mere seconds. 

''Tell me who is this girl exactly?'' Michiru inquired. 

''Well..um.. her name is Yui Aeon. And she is..um..a collegue of mine.'' Setsuna lied thinking she couldn't tell the truth when she exactly didn't know it yet and she wanted to get to the bottom of this before telling anymore than necessarily.  

Besides it might not be too far from the truth in the end, Setsuna had a hunch what this was about and someone would soon get a surprize visit in other dimension. Setsuna carried Yui the rest of the way to her bedroom in bride-groom style and laid her down on the bed.  

''Where did all these bruises come from?'' Michiru continued her interrogation. 

''She had rough time these past few weeks but now it is over.'' Setsuna said as casually as possible. 

''Thanks to you?'' Michiru asked untiringly. 

''Yes.'' Setsuna answered and tried to change the subject, ''Hotaru could you now try to heal these bruises and cuts?''. 

''Of course, mom.'' Hotaru answered and called her power.

 The symbol of Saturn appeared on her forehead and her hands shined with the healing power. Setsuna smiled, she was happy that Hotaru still considered her as mother even though Hotaru was not a small child anymore. It musn't have been easy for Hotaru to grow in their deviant little senshi family but Setsuna considered it always better than Hotaru’s previous life as a vessel to bear the spirit of Mistress Nine. At least Hotaru was dearly loved by every one of them and Setsuna knew Hotaru appreciated it. 

Almost all the Yui's bruises vanished as Hotaru donated her healing force to the beaten girl. Hotaru stopped the healing a bit exhausted as no injuries could be seen anymore. 

''Thank you.'' Setsuna said her gently.  

Hotaru just smiled, she always liked to help people, even though some might think otherwise as her being the soldier of death and destruction but luckily no one in her new school knew about her past so she got to live rather normal life. Now, sixteen years old, Hotaru looked a much like Rei in her age, though her hair was a bit shorter and her eyes were a bit darker shade of purple. 

''Would you two look after her for a while? There's someone I need to see right now.'' Setsuna asked trying not to sound  suspicious. 

''Don't worry we keep an eye on her. Go ahead.'' Michiru said to her.

 ''Thanks.'' Setsuna answered relieved. 

It was pure luck that this had happened in the weekend so others could help her. Setsuna walked out of her bedroom and went to the bathroom to be save, she didn't want others to find out where exactly she was going and how. In the bathroom she changed into Sailor Pluto and went through the Gates of time to meet an old friend.

Other dimension, Celestial palace of Time 

An old bearded man, the (almost) almighty god of time, Khronos, was having a nap in his garden when he heard a familiar voice calling him.

 ''Khronos you old fart, where are you hiding?''  

Someone who didn't know Setsuna thoroughly would have had heart attack after hearing that. 

''Setsuna honey, is that any way to speak to your boss?'' He answered looking at Setsuna who stepped through the garden gates. 

''Boss? You have some nerve, if you did your job I wouldn't have to run around in time to fix things.'' 

Khronos frowned thinking 'What on Earth had gotten Setsuna so crumpy?'. 

''Setsuna honey, what's wrong? You sound more irritated than usual.'' 

Setsuna's recently found vein on her forehead was near to explode, this day had tested her nerves to new limits. 

''Don't honey me fossil. Who is that girl who bears the same symbol on her forehead as you and travels through the time -or at least tries to?'' She asked angrily wanting some proper answers. 

Khronos blinked, she seemed to have awaken sooner than he had thought. 

''Oh, her. She is my follower, daughter if you like to think so.'' 

Now it was Setsuna's turn to blink. 

''Your daughter?''

 ''Well, not biologically but she will herit my status and powers when she is ready and I can finally retire and go on vacation an-'' 

''And when were you going to tell me? I was this close to kill her today when she came to the Gates of time!'' Setsuna cut in almost shouting while waving her staff around dramatically. 

''Well I'm telling you now and you obviously didn't  kill her so everything is okay, hehe.'' Khronos said and swallowed hard after seeing Setsuna's expression.  

He decided to continue quickly ''It was a good thing that you came by. I have a mission for you.''. 

''I'm a Sailor senshi, I don't take missions from anyone else than queen Serenity.'' she said sternly. 

''Setsuna this is important and since you are a Sailor senshi you ought to do this.'' Khronos tried to explain. 

''That doesn't make any sense.''  

Khronos sighed knowing Setsuna wouldn't settle for less than perfect explanation ''You don't know this but you were supposed to be my successor but since you have your responsibility as Queen Serenity's senshi other soul was assigned to this mission. The soul of Yui Aeon. Your soulmate.'' He said trying to sound magnificant. 

Setsuna sweatdropped and blurted out ''What?''. 

''You heard me lass. And now I want you to teach her everything you know about time and things related to it. She must be ready to continue my work someday. And you will have to continue to guard the Gates of time, meaning to be her guard and protector, like you have been mine all these years.'' 

''Do it yourself, after all she is going to be your successor.'' Setsuna reasoned. 

''You know I don't have time for things like that, I'm too busy.'' Khronos said trying to sound important. 

Setsuna raised an eyebrown. 'Yeah really busy with sleeping and fooling around.' she thought. 

''And what if I refuse?'' Setsuna asked with challenging look in her eyes. 

''Then I will make you my successor and her new Sailor Pluto.'' Khronos answered coyly. 

''You wouldn't dare.'' 

''Try me.'' 

Setsuna sighed and said mockingly ''Fine you almighty Khronos, time itself.'' 

''Cut it out already you celestial knight of the time and underworld.'' the old man shot back. 

Setsuna just smiled saying ''You know I have missed you.''.

 ''I've missed you too, you should visit me more often.'' 

''No, you should have visited me, you know I wasn't supposed to leave the Gates of time.'' 

''Well you know how lazy I am. Hehe.'' he said. 

Setsuna rolled her eyes, maybe she had broken the rules and visited him if he had been someone way more nicer. 

''Speaking of lazy. You old bum, you should have taken better care of Yui! She seems to have rough time with one time eater creature! She was really beaten up when I found her.'' 

Khronos looked really embarrassed and guilty ''Um, I didn't know she had already awaken. Is she going to be all right?'' 

''Yes, but no thanks to you!'' Setsuna continued. 

''Well yeah, um. Oh, and you're not supposed to tell this to anyone, not even your senshi family. My existence must remain secret.'' Khronos informed her, changing the subject smoothly.

 ''You got to be kidding! Not even Outer senshi?'' she asked sceptically.

 ''No one.'' 

''What about Hotaru? Her powers are bind to mine in different way than others.'' Setsuna said playing her last card. 

''She will be informed but you two are not allowed to talk about it.'' Khronos said adamantly.

 ''Just great. And what I'm going to tell my family about her.'' 

''I don't know, figure something out. Haha, you can always say she's your girlfriend since most of you seem to swing that way already.'' 

Just when Setsuna was about snap back he continued ''Oh, there's one more thing you should know.''.

 ''What?'' Setsuna groaned. 

''Her memory has been erased. All her personal memories are gone, but other knowledge she has gained in her life remains.'' 

''You mean she doesn't remember her family, friends and childhood?'' she asked unconvinced.

 ''Yes, and no one in normal world remembers her existence.'' he said somewhat seriously. 

''How could you do that?'' Setsuna asked shocked. 

''It is the way it has to be in my job, it was the same for me when I was assigned to this duty. Believe me, in the end it is better that you don't remember your previous life.'' 

Setsuna felt really sorry for Yui. And for the first time in her life Setsuna felt sorry for the old man.

 ''Oh, Setsuna darling, don't tell me you have softened during those years we last met?'' 

Setsuna rolled her eyes again, he always had to ruin everything, ''Oh, whatever. I have to go now to your almighty daughter.'' 

''Tell me, isn't she one hot chick.'' Setsuna couldn't believe her ears. 

''She was supposed to be your daughter.''

 ''I said she wasn't my biological daughter! And what harm looking could do?'' he asked innocently. 

''I hate to remind you that I am the soldier of time and undeworld and I will protect her from you too, you old fart.''  

With that Setsuna transformed into Sailor Pluto and disappeared. Khronos smiled his I-know-everything-smile. 

''That sounds more like it. You will learn how nice young lass she is. At least I guess she is nice, I haven't really met her in person so I'm not sure but it seemed so as I last checked her few years go and-.''  

And in the Celestial Palace of Time, a monologue of an old man continued for hours.  

Tokyo, Outer's mansion 

Setsuna appeared once again in the Outers mansion, however, in the toilet this time. Quickly she got out thanking god (not Khronos though) that no one had been in the toilet at the time. When she stepped into the corridor she heard voices coming from her bedroom. On her way there she hoped that Yui hadn't woken up before she had the change to talk to her about everything.  

Stepping in her bedroom she found out that Ami and Makoto had arrived already. Ami was inspecting Yui and Makoto was staring Ami adoringly while Michiru and Haruka were giggling for their behavior. Hotaru was nowhere to be seen and Yui was still unconscious.

 ''Hi everyone.'' she said letting her presence to be known.  

Everyone turned to look at her. 

''Thanks for coming Ami. And Makoto.'' Setsuna continued smiling. 

Both of them blushed and Setsuna hoped they would tell soon about they're secret relationship which everyone alredy knew, but pretended not to know.

 ''Um..I-I just gave Ami a lift..'' Makoto started to explain when Haruka cut in ''Hehe, yeah I bet you gave her a lif-''. 

*WHACK* 

''Ouch!! Michiru!'' 

''Shut up or you're going to sleep on the couch -again.'' she muttered to Haruka so that others couldn't hear but they heard anyway. 

''Oh fine but I'm gonna get you for this.'' Haruka said playfully. 

''I can't wait.'' Michiru replied smiling coyly. 

Setsuna decided to change the subject before Ami and Makoto realized what they really were talking about.  

''Where's Hotaru?'' 

''She went to see Usagi.'' Michiru answered. 

Setsuna just nodded and asked Ami, ''So, how is she Ami? Does she need medical care in hospital?''

Ami's eyes brightened due the change of subject. 

''No, I think she's going to be just fine. Thanks to Hotaru's healing powers.'' 

''I'm glad.'' Setsuna figured that Michiru must have told others who the girl was so she decided not to mention subject again until she had a change to talk to the girl in private. 

''Have you any idea how soon she will wake up?''  

''Well I can't say anything precise but it seems she is just sleeping now and should wake up anytime soon.'' 

'Damn, I have to get this people out of here.' Setsuna thought. 

''Thank you all for your help. Michiru and Haruka, would you two be so kind and get something to drink for Makoto and Ami? I can stay here with my friend.'' 

''Sure thing. Come on everybody, lets give them some privacy!'' 

Setsuna was certain that she heard Haruka mumble ''Why she can talk dirty and I can't.'' while they were walking past her.

 Setsuna sighed for thousandth time that day when the door closed. She was relieved when she was finally left alone. 'Well not entirely alone..' she thought looking the soon-to-be-personification-of-time-itself who looked the absolute opposite of herself with her red hair and green eyes. 

--- 

Yui blinked waking up from her nightmare which had ended well for the first time as a certain green haired knight had come for her rescue.

She gasped in horror as she didn't recognize her surroundings. 

''Hello there. So you finally woke up.'' 

Yui looked at the direction of the sound. Beside her bed was sitting a very beautiful woman. She looked really familiar but when Yui tried to remember who she was it somehow slipped out of her mind. 

''Is it over?'' She asked thinking this woman propably had no idea what she was talking about. 

To her suprize the woman nodded. 

''Thank god..um..where am I and who are you?''  

''My name is Setsuna Meioh, the one named also Sailor Pluto. You are in my home.'' 

Yui's eyes widened as her brains let her finally recognize that this was the same woman who had saved her earlier that day. 

''It is really you.'' she whispered and suddenly hugged Setsuna. 

Setsuna certainly wasn't expecting that, more like screams of horror or something. 

''I was so scared. All these weeks, or maybe months, I don't know.'' she said tightening her grip on Setsuna and Setsuna was starting to have troubles with breathing. 

''Please could you let go, I can't breath.'' she whispered. 

''On one condition.'' the girl said more cheerfully and Setsuna was certain she heard a bit of playfullnes in her voice. 

''Yes?'' she groaned. 

''You have to kill all the evil monsters that come after me.'' 

''Okay.'' Setsuna answered smiling. 

'How right that is going to be.' she thought to herself. To Setsunas surprize she missed immediately the girls touch when she let go of her. 'Argh, remember my vow, remember my vow.' she reminded herself.

 ''You and I need to have a talk right now. You must be wondering what these past events are all about?'' 

The girl nodded looking confused and Setsuna continued ''Well I'm here to give you some answers and I need some answers from you too.'' 

Meanwhile... 

Outer's mansion, downstairs 

''Coffee or tea?'' Michiru asked standing in the living room doorway.

''Tea, please.'' Ami and Makoto answered in unison and then they blushed in unison.  

Just before Haruka was about to say something improper Michiru said sternly ''Haruka, come and help me with the tea.''

 ''But..'' She began to protest.  

''No buts.''  

''Fine whatever.'' Haruka said standing up and heading in the kitchen while Ami and Makoto seemed relieved.  

Outer's mansion, kitchen 

Once they were in the kitchen Haruka started to whine ''Michiru, you are a real party pooper.''. 

''Hmph! You know it is not funny to mock people, especially them, you know how shy they are, at least Ami.'' 

''Yeah, but I can't resist, they should just come out of the closet since everyone knows about them already.'' 

''I think they will tell us when they're ready.'' 

''Okay okay. But you know there was know need to punch me with that magazine so hard earlier.'' 

''Well, maybe you should punish me later for being such a bad girl.'' 

''Hmm, maybe I will punish you now.'' Haruka whispered huskily and forced Michiru against the wall kissing her passionately. 

''H-Haruka! Not now, we have guests.'' Michiry tried to protest halfheartedly. 

''I think they can wait a bit.'' She answered while lifting Michiru on her shoulder. 

Michiru let out quiet ''Eek!'' and let Haruka carry her in their bedroom.  

Outer's mansion, living room 

''You know Ami, am I imagining or have they been awfully long in the kitchen brewing tea?'' Makoto asked her girlfriend. 

''I think so too. Do you think something happened to them?'' Ami asked worriedly. 

''Naa, we ought to have heard their screams of terror. But..do you think they went to..you know..'' 

It took a moment for Ami to figure what Makoto meant and then she turned as red as tomato. 

''Makoto, you can't be serious. They wouldn't..they're..well you might be right, they're Haruka and Michiru after all.''Ami admitted finally blushing even more.

 Makoto smiled to her girlfriend's reactions which took place every time something like that was mentioned. She couldn't wait to see what her reaction would be to Makoto's next move. She stood up and went to sit next to Ami on the sofa. 

''Makoto, what you're do-'' she stopped in the middle of her sentence blushing as red as one can get when Makoto placed a hand on her bare knee and whispered seducingly ''Why don't we have our own fun while waiting.''. 

''Makoto we can't, someone might come.'' 

''Naah, they're all busy, relax.'' 

Ami analyzed her options for a moment and thought then 'what the heck.' and grabbed Makoto pulling her on top of herself on the couch while kissing her eagerly. Makoto was a bit surprized but not that much, she had had the privilege to see this side of Ami many times before.  

Outer's mansion, Setsuna's room 

''So that's about everything for now.'' Setsuna concluded.  

Yui seemed really puzzled. Setsuna looked her worriedly, maybe there was too much information for once. She had found out that Yui had had really rough time these past few weeks; not only had she forgotten her family and friends and her past life, it seemed that the authority hadn't believed her amnesia story and had tried to take her to custody few times. On top of that that monster had chased her untiringly and she had been close to dying on few occasion. She had also suffered from lack of sleep since she was too scared to sleep properly being afraid of the creature's attacks.

 ''Umm..I understand if you don't believe me but don't worry when you're feeling better I will show everything to you and the-'' 

''Oh, I do believe you.'' Yui cut in smiling widely. 

Setsuna looked her unconcinced, now she seemed far too happy considering circumstances. 

''I'm just so happy that I'm not alone anymore and that I'm safe. And what you told now just confirms that I'm not crazy and all this has a reason. Yeah. In a way I lost part of my life, but also got some back. I went to hell but came back alive. Funny, first I wasn’t sure who I was and now I'm a god, hehe..Oh, why they chose me? It sounds like a bad joke, I don't know anything about that kind of thing. What if I'm no good, what if I just want to be a normal person?'' she continued biting her finger nails and trying not to look miserable or lost. 

''Relax. I will be by your side and help you any way I can. Don't worry, with time you will understand it all. I will start your lessons as soon as possible.'' Setsuna tried to comfort, it seemed that the girl was just trying to cope.

 Then Setsuna did something that surprized even herself. She took Yui in her arms and hugged her gently. Yui first trembled and then relaxed seeking comfort from Setsuna's arms. Setsuna tried to convince herself that this was purely professional while enjoying every minute of the closeness that only other person can give. Finally they broke the hug and Yui seemed much more stable. 

''Okay. Umm..So let me get this right, so no one in the real world remembers my existence anymore?'' Setsuna nodded for answer.

 ''Not even the authorities few weeks ago?'' 

''Every trace of you have been erased from people's memories by Khronos.'' Setsuna answered quietly. 

The girl looked sad for a moment, Setsuna figured that she must be thinking of her family who she didn't remeber anymore. Setsuna felt really sorry for her. 

''So, where's my home now? In space or something?''

 ''Actually you have a palace in other dimension.'' 

Yui looked shocked. 

''But you can't go living there before you become the real Khronos itself so before that you are welcome to stay with me if you like.'' Setsuna offered almost shyly. 

''Really?! Of course I would love to stay, if it is no bother. But what about the family you were talking about?'' 

Setsuna cleared her throat, it seemed she hadn't no choice than use the excuse that perverted Khronos had made up.

 ''We can tell them you're my girlfriend since Hotaru is the only one allowed to know your true identity.'' 

Setsuna waited the girl answer to be terrified 'Noo!' but instead she seemed extremely happy and Setsuna suspected she must be swinging in that way too. 

''Okay! But are you sure your friends and family are okay with that? Since were both women'' 

''Yes.'' she answered straightforwardly and thought 'If only you'd know how okay..'. 

''Well would you liked to meet them?'' 

''Sure!'' Yui answered enthuastically hoping to get something else to think for a moment. 

Setsuna helped Yui up and they headed downstairs.  

Outer's mansion, living room 

''Did you hear something?'' Ami asked Makoto breaking their kiss. 

''No.'' Makoto answered kissing Ami’s throat slowly enjoying every moment. 

''Aah, but..mmmm..but.. Oh it was propably nothing.'' Ami said seeking Makoto's lips with her own.  

Outer's mansion, Haruka and Michiru's bedroom 

''Oh, Haruka! How could you lost the key?''

 ''Honey you know how small it is.'' Haruka tried to protest. 

''Tsk, no excuses. Continue searching! I don't want to be cuffed like this for the rest of my life.'' 

''Fine, fine. But if you would help me, we would find it faster.'' 

''You lost it, so you have to find it. Simple as that.'' 

''Okay okay, don't be so crumpy.''

 ''Oh you, just wait for your turn to be cuffed.'' 

Suddenly Haruka froze. 

''Did you hear something?'' 

''No. Stop making excuses and find that key now!''  

Outer's mansion, kitchen

 ''Hmm, they were supposed to be having a drink here.'' Setsuna told Yui. 

''Maybe they had it already and went to living room?'' Yui suggested. 

''Yeah.'' Setsuna said having a bad feeling about it since it looked like no one had been in the kitchen since that morning. 

Maybe she should have observed time line more carefully but she had been so busy with talking to Yui. Setsuna stepped through the living room door with Yui and they both froze. On the couch were a couple making out passionately. Both of their blouses had been buttoned open and they caressed each others eagerly while kissing very intimitely. For a moment Setsuna and Yui just stared the couple, not able to speak. Yui's nose started to bleed again. 

''Ami and Makoto?'' Setsuna finally said out loud a bit shocked since this couple was so strick about not wanting  anyone know about them.

 Both Makoto and Ami looked up and blushed immediately as they recognized Setsuna. Then Ami screamed in shock and threw Makoto of her with power she didn't she possessed shouting at the same time ''This is not what you think!''.

Makoto landed on the floor with loud thump.  

''Ouch! That hurt Ami.'' She said annoyed.  

''Oh god! Sorry honey, I didn't mean to hurt you, I just panicked! Let me see it.'' She said forgetting her embarrassment and jumping on top of Makoto to inspect her head injury. 

''Aaah, Ami! I'm okay! I just didn't expect that. It won't propably even become a bruise'' Makoto tried to stop Ami's frantical treatment. 

''Hush, don't argue with me! Head injuries have to be taken seriously.'' 

Makoto silenced, she knew Ami wouldn't stop before she had what she wanted. After all that was how they started to go out. She smiled fondly to the memory. 

''Oh, Makoto! Oh my god! Look! She is smiling foolishly, maybe she hit her head so badly that she doen's know where she is anymore! This is all my fault! Makoto, hang in there! I will call ambulance!'' Ami panicked. 

''Oh, Ami. Calm down. I was just smiling to you, now would you please stop.'' she said pulling Ami to her arms and hugging her gently. 

''Oh, good. I was worried. Are you angry with me?'' 

''Of course not. It just you.'' she said and kissed Ami sweetly. 

Setsuna and Yui watched the spectacle before them and Yui was starting to understand why Setsuna wasn't worried about the lie they were going to tell them. Just in the same time Haruka and Michiru appeared on the other living room door panting heavily. 

''Where's the fire?'' Haruka asked. 

''We heard screaming.'' Michiru continued. 

Then they both fell silent as they noticed Ami and Makoto having a private moment on the floor.

 ''About time!'' Haruka said delighted. 

Setsuna looked the pair and groaned in fustration. Haruka's pants were open, her shirt was buttoned wrong and Michiru's dress was as wrinkled as it could be. Plus both of their hair were messed up badly and Michiru's hands were cuffed with fuzzy handcuffs. Setsuna didn't even want to know what Yui was thinking about all this.  

Then just right on cue the front door opened and a moment later Hotaru stepped in living room with Usagi, Minako and Rei. Their eyes widened and jaws dropped when they saw their friends doings. Michiru stepped hastily behind Haruka trying to hide her cuffed hands and whispering ''Haruka we must find that key, now!''. Of course Minako had heard and seen their problem and she hurried to help Haruka and Michiru.  

''Let me see those. Oh, their same kind like mine and Rei's. You know we also lost the key once and I was cuffed on the bed! Not able to move at all (for some reason Rei likes it that way, maybe it’s because she is a control freak sometimes)! And you know how short tempered Rei is so her search for the key was doomed before it had even begun, but luckily I figured out that this model can easily be opened with a hairpin. Let me show you.'' 

While Minako was working now furiously blushing perfect-and-innocent-little-Michiru's handcuffs open, Rei groaned at the doorway banging her head against the doorframe  blushing in extreme embarassment. Then Usagi decided that now was the proper time to shout ''Oh my god, Ami and Makoto! Are you two an item??'' 

Makoto broke the kiss for a moment and answered ''What does it look like?'' and Ami fell off Makoto in shock. Now it was Makoto's turn to check if she was okay. Setsuna decided that it was now or never. 

''Everyone, may I have your attention please.'' She said in clear strong voice.  All other activities ceased as everyone turned to look at Setsuna and Yui. 

''Thank you. Now I liked to introduce someone to you. Yui, this is my family and my closest friends. Michiru Kaioh and Haruka Tenoh, there in the living room door, live in this house with me. Together we are the guardians of lovely Hotaru Tomoe there. The lively blonde opening Michiru's handcuffs is Minako Aino who is dating the blushing raven haired Rei Hino at the doorway. The other (more innocent looking) blonde near Rei is Usagi Tsukino. The pair, who just came out of the closet, on the floor are Makoto Kino and Ami Mizuno. Everyone this is Yui Aeon, my girlfriend.'' Setsuna said ending her monologue. 

Yui bowed shyly saying ''Nice to meet you everyone.'' thinking at the same time how funny family and friends Setsuna had and she surely would blend in just fine.

Finally silence had fallen on the Outer's mansion as everybody stared each other in disbelief.    

A/N: Well, that was the first two chapters, I hope you liked it! This is not going to be awfully long and I will update the other chapters together later on. Things are going to be a bit serious later on but there’s going to be humor also. See ya soon! And please review! 

3. The intrusive Inners    

Outer's mansion, living room  

It took about half an hour to uncuff Michiru, dress Ami, Makoto, Haruka and Michiru properly, revive the over embarassed Rei and calm down the over excited Minako. Finally everything was the way as nothing odd had ever occurred and everyone was having a nice cup of tea in the living room, which had just a while ago been a mine field. The conversation danced around the now exposed Setsuna and Yui's relationship, for which Ami and Makoto were really grateful. However, no one dared to ask direct questions because Setsuna was glaring them with a challenging look in her eyes and none of them had the courage to defy the senshi of time. Last one to give up was the senshi of love and finally the spotlight shifted from Setsuna and Yui to other matters.  

 Suddenly Setsuna heard Michiru whisper ''I need to talk to you, now.'', Setsuna just nodded for answer and they excused theirselves. Setsuna just smiled lightly when she saw Yui's worried expression and mouthed ''I'll be back soon''. Setsuna was quite certain that if she was quick, the others wouldn't have the time to play gestapo with her supposed girlfriend. How wrong one can be.  When they reached the kitchen Michiru shut the door behind them and prepared herself to face the senshi of time.   

 Meanwhile...   

 Outer's mansion, living room  

Minako Aino had a dangerous look in her eyes when she eyed her next victim, it hadn't been the wisest thing from the time senshi to leave her girlfriend alone with the other senshi. This was perfect opportunity to get some answers. Yui Aeon gulped in fear when she saw Minako's fearful expression.   

''So Yui, if you and Setsuna are going out, I think we should get to know each other better, don't you agree? So where are you from? How long you two have been together? How old are you? Is Setsuna good kisser? Do you like cats? How you two met? Did Setsuna seduce you? Are your parents wealthy? Did you seduce Setsuna? Do you have a job? What is your favorite food? Do you have siblings? Is Setsuna good in bed? What is your favorite color? When you're going to get married? How many positions Setsuna knows? Can I be the maid of honor? Wha--'' 

 ''Minako! Behave yourself! Setsuna is going to kill you..'' Rei said trying to hold back Minako before she really got going.  

Minako shot Rei a look which implied that their bed would be a cold and lonely place that night if she would try to stop her. So Minako had once again made the impossible reality: she had managed to prevent Rei Hino speaking her mind out. Rei coughed a bit thinking 'if you can't beat them, join them' and started also shoot questions to poor Yui whose last hope of getting out of this had just died. Usagi and Makoto soon joined them and she was bombed from four directions, not having time to answer any of those questions, in which she had no answers anyway, so she just hoped that Setsuna would come to her rescue once again. 

 Other senshi watched helpless as all the four of them had managed to put on black sunglasses just like in Matrix. Minako took out a notebook and a pen ready to take notes while Usagi dragged the living room's floor lamp and directed it towards Yui, just like she had seen in detective movies. Meanwhile Makoto and Rei were looking for Michiru and Haruka's handcuffs.    

 Outer's mansion, kitchen 

 In the kitchen Setsuna shot Michiru a questioning look who decided to just bluntly speak out her concern: ''How long have you two been going out?'' 

 Setsuna was a bit taken aback by her question and frowned, that couldn't be the reason why Michiru had asked her there.  

''Well, mother..'' she began slightly irritated by the younger senshi's question ''...for few weeks if you must know.''  Michiru blushed a bit by that and continued hastily not wanting to make the older senshi upset: ''I-I mean..I'm just worried about you...'' 

 ''Why?'' Setsuna asked blinking, ''You know, I'm a grown up girl.''  

''I know...'', Michiru started embarrassed and blushed more, ''...I-I just figured that you two might be in some sort of trouble...''

Setsuna looked totally lost and Michiru tried to continue ''...I mean those injuries Yui had, I thought maybe she had been in an abusive relationship, in which you saved her from, and there might be a threat coming after you in the form of an ex with axe, if you know what I mean.''  

 Setsuna stood there for a moment thinking how anyone could have so vivid imagination. 'Then again Michiru had always been the intuitive one and she knew something was wrong and have come up with an explanation on her own..' she thought holding back laughter. 

 ''No no, it's nothing like that.'', Setsuna reassured her quickly and Michiru seemed relieved, ''I can not tell you what it is, because I made a promise to Yui and I don't want to break her trust.'' Setsuna continued before Michiru had the chance to ask, she hated to lie to her family but that seemed to be her plot in this life.  

Her mission was too important to be ruined because of her personal desires. It had always been so and it will always be so.  

 ''Its okay. I'm just glad you two aren't in any trouble.'' Michiru said brightly.  

Setsuna couldn't stop wondering the amount of love and caring her senshi family and friends gave her, it felt so odd after the years of her absolute loneliness and isolation while fullfilling her destiny and duty. 

 ''I must be the luckiest person in the world to have such a caring family and friends like you, thank you.'' Setsuna said genuinely touched.  

Michiru was surprised by the sudden show of emotions but answered smiling ''Your welcome.''. 

 ''Oh, one more thing..'', Michiru continued, ''...are you going to tell about us being the sailor senshi?''.  

''Well, she knows that I am and I'm going to tell about the rest of you soon, it's not the kind of thing you can hide from the person you love, is it?'' Setsuna said thinking that her real reasons to tell were a bit different. 

 ''And you're sure she won't reveal our true identities to anyone?'' Michiru questioned.  

''Positive.'' Setsuna answered confidently.  

''That's enought for me. So shall we go back.'' Michiru said smiling warmly.  

''Yes.'' Setsuna answered casually though she suddenly felt that something was wrong with Yui, it was really hard to keep an eye on her because she was invisible in the timeline.  

Quickly Setsuna opened the living room door and was shocked to see Yui treated like a prisoner of war; she had been cuffed to her chair while a lamp was directed towards her eyes. Usagi, Rei and Makoto were shotting questions at her while Minako tried to write everything down thinking that Setsuna had trained Yui well, they hadn't got out any answers from her. It didn't even occur to Minako that maybe Yui just didn't have the answers.  

 'If only they knew that the one they had cuffed and were having an inquisition on, was a future god...' Setsuna thought irritated and was certain that the vein on her forehead would burst in any second now. 

 ''Is that any way to treat my girlfriend?'' Setsuna said coldly, hovering over the four inquisitors.  

Silence worse than death itself fell in the room and Yui looked extremely happy seeing Setsuna. Hotaru looked Setsuna apologizenly but rather amused. 'She must have been ''informed'' as Khronos put it' Setsuna thought. Ami just looked mortified and Haruka was trying not to laugh knowing her wife's temper. Three Inner senshi and their princess looked extremely guilty and the leader of the Inner senshi tried to hide her notebook and pen. Princess of the Moon kingdom turned off the lamp imperceptibly while they all put away their sunglasses and tried to act like nothing had happened during the time Setsuna had been gone. 

 ''We..well..um..Minako I think I left the stove on. We must go, now. We'll continue this later on. Thanks for your hospitality.'' Rei said and grapped Minako who grapped the doorframe.  

''Noo, Rei, the fun is just about to begin!'' Minako protested loudly. 

 However, Rei had had enough fun for the day and she practically carried the protesting, yet giggling, Minako away in cavewoman style, not wanting to see the time senshi kill her girlfriend. 

 ''Um...I think I left the kettle on. See ya soon and thanks!'' Makoto stated and hurried after Minako and Rei with Ami.  

''Wait for me!! Geez, what kinds of bodyguards are you?!'' Usagi screamed stealing a handfull of cookies from the bowl, for lunch of course, and ran after the Inners.  

Setsuna turned to look Haruka. 

 ''May I ask, why you did nothing to stop them?'' 

 ''Well.. um.. you know how they are! They would have propably just tied me, Hotaru and Ami and who would have warned you then, if it would have developed into a real inquisition?'' she tried to defend herself.  

''Oh, whatever. Yui, are you okay?'' 

 ''Um..yes..could someone uncuff me, please?'' Yui said sounding a bit shaken.  

 ''Oh, that damn key is still lost. I guess we have to use the trick which Minako teached.'' Michiru said sighing. 

 ''Wait, I got a cooler idea. Hotaru could you loan you're Silence glaive?'' Haruka asked sounding ominous.  

Yui looked like she didn't even want to know what that silence thingy was. 

 ''No daddy. How many times I have to say it? Use your own saber. Uh, is this the key you're talking about?'' Hotaru asked while waving a small metal key in her hand. 

 ''Yes! Where did you find it?'' Michiru asked relieved.  ''It was under the sofa's cushion.'' 

 ''Oh, it must have left there after the last time we --krmrmh. So, let's free poor Yui.'' Haruka muttered blushing lightly and took the key from Hotaru and opened Yui's handcuffs.  

Yui thanked Haruka while rubbing her wrists. 

 ''Yui would you like something to eat?'' Setsuna asked her suddenly as if remembering that they haven't eaten in all day. Just on cue Yui's stomach growled. 

 ''Yes, please. I haven't eaten since yesterday.'' Yui answered embarassed. 

 ''Oh, my! Setsuna did you put her on some forced diet? To me she looks very slim and fine. Hmm, indeed..'' Haruka said flirtingly while eyeing blushing Yui shamelessly.  

*WHACK! WHACK! WHACK!* (Did she really think Michiru would let her get away with something like that?)  

''Ouch! Ouch Ouch!'' 

 ''Come on Yui. Let's get something to eat. Just ignore Haruka.'' Setsuna muttered while dragging Yui to kitchen and letting Michiru handle Haruka.  

Setsuna started to prepare lunch and asked Yui: ''So, what did you like about my family and friends?''.  

''Well, um, your daughter seems really nice.. And.. um.. I'm sure the others are really nice as well, once you get to know them that is.'' She answered, not wanting to upset her hostess.  

Setsuna just smiled to her politeness, ''Yeah, they're a bit weird but don't worry they're good people. Even if it didn't seem so today...They're actually sailor senshi, just like I am, with different powers though. So if you're ever in trouble and I'm not there, don't hesitate to ask them for help.'' 

 ''Oh really? Are you sure their also warriors like you are?'' 

 ''Yes.'' Sesuna replied amused. 

 ''Don't take me wrong but they certainly didn't seem so..'' 

 ''Yeah, I know. Don't worry, some day when you don't have this much in your mind, I'll tell you our story.''  

Yui nodded smiling as Setsuna set the table and they started to eat. She was certain it would be an interesting story but right now she had had too much information already.  Setsuna watched amused as Yui ate with appetite which matched even Usagi's.

  ''You can go to my room, if you want to be alone a bit after all this. Bathroom is really close in case you want to take shower, towels can be found in the closet there. I'll follow you in a sec, I'll just clear the table and talk to my family. And don't worry, they won't try to interrogate you like the younger ones did, they know better by now, so you can go by yourself.'' 

 Yui nodded relieved, thanked for the food and disappeared through the kitchen door.  Setsuna cleared the table and washed the dishes. Then she prepared to talk to her family and went to living room.Hotaru, Haruka and Michiru were sitting on the couch, watching TV. 

 ''Hi, Setsuna. What's up?'' Haruka said smirking as she noticed Setsuna.  

''I forgot to tell you earlier. Yui is moving in with me. Or should I say with us.  Any objections?''   

Everyone of them was surprised by that but they just shook they're heads. 

 ''Good. Goodnight Hotaru. And you two. I have to excuse myself.'' 

 ''G'night, mom.'' Hotaru replied.  

Michiru put her hand over Haruka's mouth before she had the change to blurt out whatever it was this time and wished Setsuna goodnight. 

 ''Well, I guess new love is eager and passionate.'' Haruka said as soon as Michiru removed her hand.  

''Hotaru. It is time to go bed.'' Michiru said sternly. 

 ''Okay, mommy.'' she said obediently not wanting to see Michiru mommy beating Haruka daddy with the newspaper again, though it looked really funny. Somehow she just couldn't imagine herself and Chibiusa in same kind of situation, ever.  

Haruka looked helplessly as Hotaru went to upstairs. She glanced fearfully at Michiru who had this menacing glint in her eye. 

 ''Umm..I think I go to bed too..'' Haruka said weakly, ready to flee the opponent before her. 

 ''Yes...'', Michiru murmured, ''You're going to go to bed..with me. I have a bone to pick with you.'' she continued, the now legendary handcuffs hanging between her fingers.  

Haruka gulped. ''Michiru is so merciless sometimes..'' she thought smirking.   

 Outer's mansion, Setsuna's room 

 Finally Setsuna was back in her room. Yui was sitting on the bed, her hair wet and she was fidgetting the hem of her shirt nervously, obviously waiting for Setsuna. 

 ''You can relax, this is your home now.'' Setsuna said shutting the door behind her.  

Yui looked up and stammered ''Y-Yes. T-Thank you. This all seems so surreal and when I was alone here I thought I had imagined it all.'' 

 ''It's okay. It takes time but everything is going to be alright.'' Setsuna reassured her thinking what cliché that was.  

''So, I'm guessing your earthly possessions must be slim.''

  ''Yes. I lost practically everything, well what was left anyway, in the last fight with the creature.'' she admitted embarrassed.  

''Don't worry..'', Setsuna said walking to her drawer and taking out a set of nightclothes, ''..we'll take care of that and other things tomorrow. Here, take this. You can sleep on the bed, I sleep on the couch.''  

''Thanks. But...um, how long its going to take before I become that Khronos person?'' Yui asked shyly. 

 ''Well, I don't know, but its at least years, I guess.'' Setsuna answered unsurely. 

 ''And you're going to sleep all that time on the couch? Doesn't your family find it a bit strange?'' Yui continued.  

Now it was Setsuna's time to get embarrassed. 

 ''Uh..I guess so. My bed is lather large, so I guess it's not a problem..'' Setsuna said uncertainly. 

 ''No it's not.'' Yui answered happily ('too happily' the time senshi thought) and started to change her clothes there in front of Setsuna who blushed second time that day (and lifetime) turning away quickly and excusing herself to the shower, thinking whether or not she did that on purpose. 

 ---  

Before they knew they were in the bed, ready to sleep. 

 ''Goodnight.'' Setsuna said turning off the light.  

''Goodnight.'' Yui answered and felt fear rushing through her body immediately as the darkness surrounded her.

During these last weeks darkness had became the synonyme of death. She couldn't see Setsuna, she couldn't see anything. Today's relieveness and feel of security went away as horror and loneliness came back. It felt like the creature could attack any minute now, just like before. 

 ''Miss Meioh...?'' she whispered praying that the woman hadn't fallen asleep already.  

''Yes? And call me Setsuna, please.'' came the firm answer.  

''Um...Setsuna...could you hold me? Just for the night. I still feel a bit scared and it all seems so real...'' she admitted mortified.  

''It's okay. I understand. Don't worry, I'm right here.'' Setsuna reassured her and Yui felt Setsuna's arm wrapping around her protectively and she felt Setsuna's warm and firm body pressing against her own.  

Never before, that she could remember, had she felt so save than she was now in Setsuna's arms. All the fears and anxiety faded away.  Just when Yui was about to fell asleep, she heard Setsuna mumble ''This is purely professional. This is purely professional''. She didn't have a clue what that meant so she ignored it and let the sleep claim her.