Title: Children of Fire - Prologue Author: Viper Inferno E-mail: viperdvman@hotmail.com Rated: PG Howdy, Sailor Moon Fans. Welcome back to the world of Y2V; it never ends, doesn't it. Well, here it is, "Children of Fire", the fifth and final story in my "Warrior of Fire" Anthology. It's got an interestin' plot, and a little more of this, and a little more of that. This prologue's takin' place in the Silver Millennium (gotta get some more of those Silver Millennium settings in there, 'ya know) some months after the ball scene in the prologue to "Brother of Fire". It took me a while to get this and Chapter 1 written, so I hope all y'all out there enjoy it. Enough of my Okie babblin', here's the Y2V... ...Disclaimer: Sailor Moon and most of the characters ain't mine. They belong to Naoko Takeuchi, and I thank that woman for creating such great entertainment for all of us with a lot of free time on our hands to enjoy. The English dub belongs to DiC Entertainment, and I thank them for bringing' it to America, even though they lost the rights. Finally the S season's in America. Anyways, Russell Hino, Hino Kyodai, Tuxedo Inferno, and all his other identities are MINE (in a deep, dark, growling voice). Titanius is also mine. So, please don't sue me. Well, y'all enjoy this fanfic and e-mail me. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Children of Fire By Viper Inferno Prologue Prince Darien stands on one end of a vast coliseum some distance from the Moon Palace, wearing his usual black suit and armor plates with a red cape. Thousands of people cheer him on as he waves to them and blows a few kisses at his fiancé, who's cheering squeaks above the crowds. "I'll win this tournament for all the Moon Kingdom to see who's really better," Darien says to the crowd. Moments later, Prince Russell walks inside to find thousands of people from the Mars Kingdom cheering him on. He waves at his cheering fans and scans among them for his sister, Raye, and his sweetheart, Amy. He draws his sword and shows off to the crowd, prompting them to cheer even more. He sheathes his sword and finally finds his Amy among the cheering fans. He blows a couple kisses at her, making her blush redder than Russell's outfit, a maroon suit with armor plates and a purple cape. "With my superior training in the power of fire, I shall defeat the Earth Prince," Russell says as he takes his position. "Good afternoon ladies and gentleman," says a commentator covering the match, "Welcome to the Wide Lunar World of Sports. I am your stunning host, Malcolm Boyle. We're here live at the sold out Moon Kingdom Coliseum, where a battle for glory will soon wage on. In one corner, we have the prince charming of the Earth Kingdom. His expert swordplay is well known as notorious even to the outer kingdoms and he's also known to utilize just about anything as a weapon. His looks and his charm have captured the heart of the very princess of this kingdom and would do anything to save a damsel in distress. We have here, the extraordinary prince of the Earth Kingdom, Prince Darien. And in the other corner, we have the sizzling hot prince of the Mars Kingdom. He's not just hot, ladies, I mean he will melt your hearts with just the fire in his eyes. His swordplay rivals that of even Prince Darien's and his near lifetime of training in the powers of fire give him the burning edge in battle. We have, the hot, the spicy prince of the Mars Kingdom, Prince Russell." The crowd falls to silence as the two gladiators stare at each other across the field, with their hair and capes waving in the wind. Darien goes for his sword as Russell goes for his as well. A referee takes his time walking toward the center of the field, being careful as not to stand in the way the sparks flying between the princes' eyes. "Ladies and Gentlemen, it looks like the match is about to start," says Malcolm Boyle, "The referee is now taking his position to unleash the fury of these savage beasts." The referee lifts a white flag in the air, signaling the eminent start of the battle. At the same time, the two combatants ready their swords and prepare for the signal. The referee drops the flag and runs out of the way. Russell and Darien charge at each other like a couple of raging bulls. The crowd cheers the two on as they make a few passes at each other before finally clashing swords. Darien gets the upper hand early in the match, while Russell endures Darien's aggressive strikes. Darien gives Russell a good kick, knocking him to the ground. He swings his sword and makes a strike at the fallen Russell. Russell rolls out of the way and at the same time trips Darien. He jumps up and back away from Darien, staying on the defensive. Darien jumps back up and looks at his opponent, who looks as if he's not ever gonna let this round end. "Think you're tough?" Darien says as he charges at Russell with full speed, lifting his sword as if to strike with all his might. Russell blocks Darien's blow with his flame sword. Darien comes back with a back leg sweep, taking Russell's legs from under him. Russell falls to the ground and before he could recover, Darien puts his foot on Russell's right wrist where his sword's in his hand. "I think not," Darien says as puts his sword to Russell's throat, believing he's won this round. "Tut, tut, looks like rain," Russell says with a smile as he sweeps Darien's other leg from under him and wrestles him to the ground. Russell grabs Darien's sword, pins him, and holds it to his throat. Sweat drops form on his forehead in surprise of Russell's maneuver. With nowhere to go, "I submit." The referee raises his flag; "Round One goes to Prince Russell of the Mars kingdom." The Mars Kingdom fans along with Raye and Amy yell and cheer for their conquering prince. A marching band goes wild with a fight song after Russell's victory in Round One. "And Prince Russell has won Round One," says Malcolm Boyle, "And all the ladies in the crowd go wild, with hearts in their eyes, as their flamin' hot hero claims victory over the other prince charming. It looks like they're about ready to start Round Two." Russell and Darien both get up to retrieve their swords and take their places on opposite sides of the field. They stare at each other's sweaty faces, awaiting the referee's signal to begin Round Two. Russell and Darien ready their swords as the referee lifts his flag. "I let you win that one," says Darien, "But this time, I won't make it so easy." The referee then drops the flag and dashes for his life as Russell and Darien pounce at each other like a couple of fighting lions. They collide with each other, utterly knocking each other senseless. They both recover from their collision and immediately take to each other like raging wolves. The sound of clanging swords can be heard throughout the coliseum over the roar of the crowd. Darien knocks Russell's sword from his hand, sending it whirling in the air and drilling into the ground. "Folks, it doesn't look good for the Mars Prince as the cunning Prince Darien knocks Russell's trusty flame sword from his hand," says Malcolm Boyle, "He now lies on the ground, unarmed and at Prince Darien's mercy. But at least the ladies seem to be enjoying the action." "You're good, Darien. But I'm better," Russell says as he ducks low and takes Darien to the ground in fierce hand-to-hand combat. After knocking Darien's sword from his hand, Russell takes to him like a true Olympic wrestler. Darien manages to pull away from Russell and retrieve his sword. "Get off my leg," Darien yells as he kicks Russell off his leg with authority. With Russell's sword still some distance away, Darien exploits that by quickly putting Russell in a submission move, with the sword to his back. "Think you can get out of this one," Darien taunts as he puts Russell through more pain. "I submit," Russell nearly yells in pain. Darien lets go as the referee raises his flag, "Round Two goes to Prince Darien of the Earth Kingdom." Darien's fans go wild while Serena screams and hollers carry over even the crowd and the other marching band. "Jeez, that Meatball Head can be loud," Darien says to himself. Russell retrieves his sword and prepares for the next round. "And Prince Darien claims Round Two," says Malcolm Boyle, "And the ladies cheer over this stouthearted stud muffin's victory over the Mars Prince, who's fire for the ladies seems to have gone out. Next up is Round Three, who will prevail in this battle of the titans? Audience, please don't phone in with the correct response." He this deepens his voice a bit, "I hate it when they ruin the suspense." He returns to his commentary tone, "And now, a commercial break. This is MKN's Wide Lunar World of Sports." Round 12... With the score at Russell 6 and Darien 5, the referee lifts his flag with a 10-foot-pole to make sure the two Tasmanian devils don't suck him into their whirlwind action after he drops the flag. "I think you're getting a little rusty, my friend," Russell taunts. "Rust, schmust," Darien replies, "You're wearin' down and I got this one in the bag." "The referee takes his position," says Malcolm Boyle, "and it looks like he's more afraid being sucked into the action than making a bad call and getting boos from the fans. Audience, please don't try this at home, unless you too are an expert swordsman and fight alongside the Moon Princess' Inner Scouts." The referee drops the flag, 10-foot-pole and all, and runs for his life as the gnashing warriors leap at each other like a pair of panthers. Their swords clang together with such force, that it could be heard by even Queen Serenity herself back at the Moon Palace. "Ooh," Malcolm Boyle comments at such cataclysmic force, "I'm surprised their swords didn't even break from that impact. Hold on, ladies, 'cause this action's gonna cause shock waves to fill the stands, and then your living room." Russell goes on the offensive as he clashes with Darien, forcing him back as they exchange swings. Russell kicks Darien into the wall with authority. Darien recovers to see Russell holding his sword to his side and motioning with his finger to "com'ere". Darien rushes at Russell with the tip of his sword nearly dragging on the ground and swings at him with great force. Russell blocks Darien's sword and continues clashing. Darien gets the upper hand, knocking Russell's sword to his side with great force. In response, Russell kicks him back to keep him from scoring another round. Darien waves his free arm, sending a dozen roses flying at Russell. To the fans and to Russell, all 12 seem to miss. Russell feels a sharp pain hit his face as he sees drops of blood spread on the ground to his left. He puts his hand on the part of his face where the pain is emanating, then removes it to see his fingers covered in blood. He puts a firm grip on his sword with both hands and charges at the shocked Darien. "Using roses isn't fair," says Russell. "Sorry Russell, I didn't mean to hit you in the face," Darien replies as he clashes with Russell. They separate as Russell tosses his sword and throws his hands in front of him, "Inferno Fire, Beam!" He sends a coherent beam of fire at Darien, striking him in the chest and sending him into the wall with great force. He retrieves his sword and dashes over to Darien. "Fair is fair, right Darien?" says Russell. He puts the struggling Darien into a hold and puts the sword to his throat. With too little energy to fight back, Darien gives in, "I submit." Russell lets go as the referee raises his flag, "Round Twelve goes to Prince Russell of the Mars Kingdom." The fans cheer as Russell extends his lead to 7 and 5. A medic runs over to check on Russell's face to find a nicely made cut. He cleans the wound and allows Russell to claim his victory. "And it looks like the match is over, as Prince Russell claims victory over Prince Darien, 7 to 5," says Malcolm Boyle, "And I might say, ladies, this was a close match. There were many times that either Prince Russell or Prince Darien would've won these rounds. It looks to me as if it all involved a little luck in each of their matches. Now to interview with the conquering victor." Malcolm leaves the press box and runs out to the field with his cameraman to chat with the victorious Prince Russell. "Prince Russell, in an interesting turn of events, you came from a 2 to 5 deficit to win 5 rounds in a row and claim victory over the Earth Prince. How's your face doing?" Malcolm Boyle asks, giving Russell the microphone. "It'll heal, and with certain healing powers that I know of, it won't even leave a scar. I'll be fine, thank you Malcolm," Russell answers, then hands the microphone back to Malcolm. "And from MKN, you just won yourself a prize my fair prince. Say, I'd love to have one of these myself if I weren't working with MKN," Malcolm Boyle says as he signals the cameraman to pan over to his prize bearer. "A trip to the tropical islands of the Pacific Ocean on Earth. You and a guest, most likely a beautiful woman whose heart would melt at the sight of your flaming hot face, will spend 4 days and 3 nights on the exotic Tahiti, where this lovely Moon Kingdom makes a captivating sight during the tropical night." The cameraman pans back to Malcolm's shady face, "Believe me, I've been there. And, you get to enjoy that captivating sight with the girl of your dreams. So tell me, my dear prince, who are you bringing to Tahiti with whom to enjoy such a breath taking sight?" "Well, Malcolm, none other than my beautiful sweetheart, Princess Amy of the Mercury Kingdom," Russell replies to the microphone. "I knew that," Malcolm says with a sneaky grin, "Enjoy your prize Prince Russell. Congratulations!" "Thank you, Malcolm," Russell says as he sees Amy running toward him. He catches her in his arms and squeezes tightly. "Are you all right, Russell?" Amy asks as she examines the wound on his face. "It'll heal," Russell replies, "Guess what. I won a trip for two to Tahiti on Earth for 4 days and 3 nights. I'm taking you with me." "Oh Russell," she replies as she kisses him on the lips. Mars Kingdom... Russell sits in the washroom looking at the cut on his face in the mirror while Raye tends to it. "You two really need to take it easy on each other," says Raye. "Nah, Darien and I aren't worried about it," says Russell, "We forgave each other for crossing the line." "That still doesn't make this cut heal any faster," Raye rebuts. "I'll talk to the sensei. I know he can heal this cut and leave no scar," says Russell. Those words click on a light bulb in Raye's head, "That's right. We've got a lot of training to do today." She finishes dabbing Russell's cut and makes her way with Russell to the training hall to prepare for their training. Training Hall... Raye sits on her knees in the vast training hall, awaiting the sensei's arrival since he's busy taking care of Russell's wound. She's dressed in her usual training outfit, a red kimono with gold Oriental designs and a black and gold obi. She then begins meditating as she further awaits the sensei's arrival. Minutes later, the sensei arrives and silently slithers his way to Raye's position. He calmly raises a staff as he nears her, as if to strike her from behind. He finally makes it to his destination, without as much as single tap. The room falls so silent, that the sensei could hear a rat pee on cotton from the other side of the room. He swiftly, but quietly draws his staff back, and takes the swing. Raye reacts almost instantly and immediately turns around and blocks the sensei's arm before the staff even comes close to hitting her. "Good," the sensei comments as he lets his staff down, "As a true senshi, you must be aware of your environment by using all your senses." Raye gets a better look at the sensei, an old man with his short, silver and white beard and mustache as being the only hairs on his head. He wears a black and gold kimono similar in style to what Raye's wearing. Raye reassumes her previous position as the sensei takes his seat in front of her. "Your spirit is ever strong, Raye," the sensei says, "and the spirit of light dwells in you. But you must learn focus that light to conquer darkness. I sense in you, Raye, the ability to cast out evil spirits, but you are still undisciplined in fighting that evil. Come." The sensei rises and Raye follows as they walk over to a pedestal. On it, he places a single apple. "Now Raye, focus your energy on this fruit," he says as he moves out of the way. Raye closes her eyes and clasps her hands together. A ball of fire forms in the tips of her index fingers, "Mars Fire, Ignite!" She sends a ball of fire at the apple, disintegrating it in a split second. "Your use of fire has improved, Raye," the sensei says as he walks over to the pedestal and places another apple on it. "Now, let's refrain from using fire," he says as he walks over to Raye. He places his closed hand on Raye's open hand, giving her a dart. "Let's use something a little more elementary," the sensei instructs, "Focus not on the means, but focus on the objective. Focus on the fruit, and guide the dart to it." Raye closes her eyes, focusing her energy, then opens her eyes to focus on the apple. She gracefully brings her arm back, not letting her eyes off the apple. The then calmly waves her arm at the apple, releasing the dart and nailing the apple dead center. "Very good, Raye," the sensei praises, "Focusing on the objective and guiding your energy to it helped you to achieve your goal. Now, the fruit is evil that dwells in a person and the dart is the spirit of light. You must focus your spirit on that evil, and guide that spirit to the evil, so that light may shine in the dark, and cause it to flee." The sensei claps his hands together, signaling a door to open and revealing a snarling monster. "Much evil dwells in this beast," the sensei says, "Your objective is to cause evil to flee it." He hands her a charm with Japanese characters written on it. "Just like you used the dart to focus your energy on the fruit, use the charm to focus your spirit on the evil that dwells in this creature. Your goal is not to attack the creature, but the evil within it." Raye closes her eyes and summons the spirit within her. She then uses her extra-sensory perception to find the evil in which to cast out. She focuses on that evil within the creature and sends her charm at it, "Evil, Begone!" The charm strikes the beast, causing an evil spirit to emerge from it and scream in pain. The evil spirit then vanishes and the beast transforms into a harmless tiger cub. "Well done, Raye," the sensei praises, "You have just taken a large step into a larger world. You're learning to focus your spirit in the battle against evil. When you focus not on the energy of your body, but the spirit in your heart, evil will flee from those it dwells in. While your powers of fire have one purpose, the spirit in your heart has is own purpose. Use them together, my apprentice." Raye gives the sensei a bow, and the sensei returns it. "Your brother awaits," he says, " Please summon him in. You are dismissed." Raye makes it to the edge the training hall, where she turns to the sensei and gives him a bow. She then opens the door, where Russell awaits his instruction. He's dressed in an outfit similar to Raye's, a maroon kimono with lavender Oriental designs and a purple and gold obi. "Russell, Sensei summons you in. Good Luck," says Raye. Russell walks through the door and bows to the sensei at the edge of the training hall. The sensei already has a fire lit for the upcoming lessons. Russell halts in front of the sensei and gives him a bow. The sensei returns the bow and grabs a sword. He swiftly raises it, "Defend yourself." Russell reacts quickly and unsheathes his flame sword and stops the sensei's blade within inches of his face. The sensei then gives Russell a good kick to the mid-section, sending him back a few feet. They both bow to each other and sheathe their swords. "Your reaction time is getting better, Russell, but you must defend against all fronts of attack," the sensei comments, "The sword is only an extension of the body. Your enemy may not totally rely that extension, but use all parts of his body against you. You too should use all parts of your body for not only attack, but also defense." They both take their seats near the fire, "The power of fire grows ever so strong in you, my son. You have trained for many years in the use of fire. Over the years, you have learned to hold fire in your hands, to throw it at your opponent, to send a wave of it at both many and one, to defend yourself with it, to concentrate its power into a single beam, and even summon it with the art of dance. There is more to the power of fire and the summoning of it for you to learn." "Thank you, sensei," says Russell, "You have taught me well in the use of fire." "Over there lies a target," the sensei says as he points to a toy soldier on the other side of the training hall, "Show me what you have truly learned." Russell gets up and approaches his opponent. He waves his arms to his sides, forming a ball of fire above his head, "Inferno, Flame!" He waves his arm at his opponent, sending the ball of fire at it and singeing it. Then, a group of toy soldiers emerge from openings in the walls. Russell waves his arm at them, "Inferno Blaze, Wall!" He sends a wave of fire at the group, knocking them out and causing them to fall apart. Another group approaches Russell behind. He waves his arms kung-fu style, "Inferno Fire, Dance!" He dances around them at light speed, setting each and every one ablaze. Then, an oversized toy soldier knocks Russell down from behind. He recovers quickly and maneuvers his arms, "Inferno Fire, Beam!" He throws his arms in front of him and fires a magnified beam of fire at his opponent, boring through it like a drill through wood. Russell scans the training hall and finds that the test has ended. "You fight well, Russell," the sensei comments, "But I sense in you feelings of anxiety. You and your sister both share that. Those feelings of anxiety often fight against you, causing you to lose judgement. Anger seems to be the most difficult for both you and Raye to overcome. You often let that anger overcome you in battle, and thus you lose good judgement and act on that anger. Come outside." The sensei walks to the door leading outside as Russell follows. They walk out into a vast open field, where an obstacle course and numerous targets lie. "Anger can be a good thing, as being something to draw strength from," the sensei says, "But, used unwisely, it becomes a double-edged sword in that you lose valuable defense and better judgement. Now, run the obstacle course." He waves at the start of the course, and Russell immediately takes it to the first obstacle, in which he climbs almost effortlessly. After about 3 minutes of using every bit of strength of move through each obstacle as quickly as possible, Russell makes it through and stops right in front of the sensei, placing his hands on his knees and breathing heavily. "You weren't fast enough, Russell," the sensei scolds, "Run the course again and run it faster." "Faster... right," says Russell as he runs the course again. This time, he tackles it with every bit of strength and speed he has in him. He makes it through the course and stops in front of the sensei, almost completely out of breath. "That still wasn't fast enough, Russell," the sensei comments. "What do you mean, Sensei?" Russell questions, "I ran that one a whole 22 seconds faster." "Good," the sensei says, "The anger is building in you. Now, see those targets over there?" He points to a platoon of stationary toy soldiers in an open area. "Focus that anger and use your powers of fire. Let your anger work for you." He stares at the soldiers and lowers his eyebrows. He closes his eyes and focuses his anger. He then opens them as they begin to glow a bright orange. He holds his arms out to his sides and slowly begins to raise them. A small field of fire ignites around him. "Channel that energy," the sensei says, "let it work for you." "Inferno," says Russell, then thinks of a word, 'let's see, anger, wrath, rage, fury. Yes, fury.' He then waves his arm at the soldiers, yelling "FURY!" He sends a mammoth cyclone of fire at the targets, covering the area larger than that of even the Moon Kingdom Coliseum. The flames of the cyclone fly with great speed, incinerating everything within. After the cyclonic blaze clears, only ashes and isolated flames remain. Russell looks on in shock as the sensei walks next to him. "I never knew I had that kind of power," says Russell. "When you let anger work in your favor, you gain strength from it and also not lose your better judgement," the sensei says, "The power of the fire spirits works in many ways, my son. It works through your body, both for offense and for defense. It works through your mind, that you summon those powers. It works through your sword, that you focus its energy. And, it works though your emotions. Your anger is a storm accumulating in you. It can bring nourishment and it can bring destruction. You've learned to use the power of fire to channel that energy and form your own storm of fire." They turn and walk back toward the training hall. "A true senshi is a master of his powers, a master of his environment, and a master of himself," the sensei says, "You are learning to control fire with all parts of you. You've taken steps in learning the many ways to control the power of fire, but you still have a lot to learn, Russell. This training session has ended. Dismissed." They stop and turn to each other. Russell gives a bow, and the sensei returns it. "May this day enlighten you, Russell," the sensei says. "And you have a great day, Sensei," says Russell as he walks back toward the palace. The next day... Russell sits in his chamber, wearing his usual maroon suit and slacks with silver armor plates, lavender lining and a purple cape. His flame sword rests at his left side in its silver and maroon scabbard. To be more formal, he decides to wear his white silk parade gloves and a white corsage on his chest next to his left shoulder plate. He saves the other to give to Amy for her to wear on her wrist. In his rather small collection of gifts, he holds a metallic blue box of chocolates and a single white rose, commemorating their first night together. Yes, he remembers it was a red rose Raye had let him keep to give to Amy, but white looks so much better on her. For a special gift, he carries dark blue ring box. Inside is a ring made from white gold with an ice blue crystal in the shape of a pair of dolphins, also commemorating their first night together when they danced to the music of the ocean. Obviously, he has special plans for his sweetheart that night, and without a doubt, she too may have special plans. "She'll love this dolphin crystal I got for her," Russell says to himself, "There's no better way to capture the moment that to present her with a relic of the ocean." A knocking at the door breaks his thoughts of Amy. Before he could get up, the door opens and Raye takes a peek inside, "What'cha doin', Russell?" "Getting ready to leave," Russell replies. Raye notices the boxes of gifts, "Ooh, what are you getting for Amy?" "Let's just say chocolates, flowers, and a... special gift," Russell honestly answers, trying to evade Raye's question. "And you're leaving early?" Raye asks. "Of course," Russell replies, "I'm taking Amy with me." "Well, I'll see you there, have fun Russell," says Raye as she leaves Russell's chamber. Russell grabs his stuff and his gifts for Amy and walks out of his chamber and down the stairs. He walks through the main hall, where his mother awaits. "Russell, you look great," she complements, then notices the stuff Russell holds in his hands, "Gifts for Amy?" "Yes, I even have a special gift for Amy," Russell replies as he puts the rose and chocolates down and pulls out the ring box and opens it. "Russell, it's beautiful," his mother comments, "For what occasion do you get such a ring for Amy." "It's a surprise," Russell replies, "Besides, you should know better than anybody." Russell closes the ring box and places it back in his pocket. He retrieves his gifts and makes his way toward the front gate. "See 'ya, Mother." "Ooh, he's gonna ask her," his mother deduces, "I knew they were destined to be together." Mercury Kingdom... Princess Amy sits in her chamber, gracefully brushing her short ocean blue hair. As she brushes, she beautifully hums one of the oceanic melodies she and Russell danced to on that first night. After she gets done brushing, she places her silver brush back into the vanity drawer and takes a look at herself in the mirror. She's wearing a pale blue satin gown with short see-through puffed sleeves. She wears a large sky blue bow below the half-exposed back, nicely tied by her mother. A knock at the door interrupts her from examining her dress for imperfections. "Are you ready, sweetie?" her mother says, peeking through the door to see her beautiful daughter in her dazzling light blue dress. "I'm about ready," Amy replies as she turns to her mother, "Doe's my dress look fine? I mean is there anything that needs to be fixed?" "No dear, you look so dazzling you're gonna knock Russell dead," her mother replies. "What I came up here to tell you is that Russell's already here." "He is?" Amy says with a gleam on her face. "I'll tell him you're ready," her mother says as she leaves her daughter's chamber. Russell sits on a chair in the living room, awaiting Amy's arrival. He takes a look around, noting the elegantly decorated furniture, the fine silk curtains, the crystal tabletop accessories, and the elegant lampshades. It's as if this living room belongs to a wealthy queen, and it does. The décor throughout the palace gives Russell the sense of actually being in an aquatic palace. He walks back into the main hall to see Amy's mother walking down the stairs. "Amy will be down in a second," she says as she stands behind him. Russell hears a door close upstairs, then watches as Amy walks down the stairs in her pale blue satin dress. Amy catches sight of him and her sapphire blue eyes shimmer as she picks up her speed down the stairs. A smile brightens her delicate face as she runs up to Russell and throws herself into his waiting arms. After a tight embrace, Russell lets go of Amy and holds her at arms distance to take a good look at her. He examines her dress from head to toe then pans back up to her shimmering blue eyes. "You look absolutely divine," he says. "Thank you Russell," she says, "As always, you bring out the true beauty of a warm fireplace." Russell lets go of her shoulders and reaches into his suit to grab the box of chocolates. "Oh, Russell," she says with a flash of light in her eyes, "You know I love chocolate." "Take a look inside," Russell says. Amy opens the box, hiding her face as Russell pulls out the white rose. "White chocolate, my favorite," Amy says, then notices the rose Russell holds in his hand, "A white rose." "I grew these in the garden myself," he says as he carefully places it in Amy's baby soft blue hair, "I chose the best one out of hundreds for this night, one worthy of your beauty." "How thoughtful," Amy replies as she gives Russell a kiss on the cheek. "Oh and one last thing," Russell says as he pulls the corsage out and slips it on Amy's left wrist. Russell extends his arm for Amy, "Are you ready to go?" "Of course I am," Amy responds as she takes Russell's arm, "Bye, Mother. I'll see you at the ball." "Wait a minute," her mother says as she runs into the living room. The couple waits at the front gate to find out why the Mercury Queen had stopped them from leaving. She emerges seconds later with an expensive camera in her hands. "I just want a picture of the most beautiful couple I had ever seen," she says. Amy takes Russell's hands in hers and guides them around her waist as they pose for the camera. Her mother takes her time getting pictures of her daughter with such a handsome prince. After she gets through, Amy and Russell let out a sigh of relief, resting assured that her mother wasn't going to take forever taking a whole film roll's worth of pictures. "You two have a great time, okay?" her mother says as the couple turns around. "We will, Mother," Amy replies as she and Russell walk down the palace steps, "I love you, Mother." Moon Palace... Russell and Amy arrive at the majestic Moon Palace before most of the guests could arrive. This is another rather formal ball, without all the fancy décor. The dazzling regal interior of the palace provides for sufficient beauty without all the décor to act as make-up. The bands have already arrived and are playing a jazz piece. For this ball, Queen Serenity has hired her usual music groups: a jazz band, a strings band, and a special music band. Some people are already on the dance floor dancing to the melody of the saxophone and the rhythm of the drums and bass. Meanwhile, other groups of people enjoy each other's company. "Hey Prince Russell," a familiar voice calls out. Russell and Amy turn around to find a familiar-looking man with a short, bleached blonde, spiked crew cut standing with a small group of well-dressed ladies. He himself is rather well dressed, wearing a dark blue tuxedo and is sporting his stylish sunglasses. "Malcolm Boyle," Russell says. "The one and only," says Malcolm Boyle, waving his arms to his sides in gesture. "I heard about you on the news last night after the tournament," says Russell, shaking the commentator's hand, "Congratulations on winning the award for 'Sexiest Sports Commentator in the Galaxy'." Malcolm Boyle gestures Russell to come closer, "I got a secret." Russell comes close enough for Malcolm Boyle to whisper into his ear, "The judges were a group of very fine ladies who took to my rather... persuasive advances." "You sure are the ladies man, Malcolm," Russell says, loud enough for the people around them to hear, "So how'd you find your way here?" "Easy, I decided to come to this ball to savor such fine beauty, and what glamour I found here," says Malcolm Boyle, making reference to the ladies standing with him. Russell immediately remembers his glamorous princess, "Oh, Malcolm, this is Princess Amy of the Mercury Kingdom." "Pleased to make your acquaintance, Your Highness," says Malcolm Boyle as he takes Amy's hand and gently kisses it, like a true gentleman. "The pleasure is all mine to meet the galaxy's sexiest sports commentator," Amy comments. The jazz music ends as people leave the dance floor while the strings band prepares to play a piece. "Well, I gotta find out which one of these lovely ladies wants to dance with me first," says Malcolm Boyle as he takes his group elsewhere, "Enjoy your time with your sweetheart, Prince Russell." "He's an odd guy, but he sure knows how to impress the ladies both on and off the screen," Russell comments. "No wonder they named him 'Sexiest Sports Commentator of the Galaxy'," Amy adds. She turns to Russell and looks into his dark purple eyes. "So what was this surprise you were telling me about on the way here?" she seductively asks, placing her hand on his face and running the backs her fingers down it. "You'll see later tonight," Russell replies as he takes her out to the dance floor. The band begins to play a waltz, a piece rather familiar to Russell since he and Raye both use it to practice the waltz. Russell takes Amy's hand while he throws the other onto her waist. Amy, in response, places her free hand onto Russell's shoulder as they begin to waltz about the dance floor, along with other groups of rather proficient dancers, including Malcolm Boyle. Halfway through the dance, Russell notices Darien and Serena entering the ballroom. "Darien and Serena are here," Russell whispers. "I've already noticed," Amy replies with a whisper. After their dance, they leave the dance floor and head over to where Darien and Serena are standing. The strings band takes a break while the piano player plays a relaxing piece. "Amy, you're already here," says Serena. "Russell and I came a little early, before most of the guests arrived," Amy replies, "And guess what, Malcolm Boyle's here." "He is, great," says Serena. "Oh no, girl talk," Darien says in response. "Tell me about it," Russell agrees. "Hey Russell, we'll be back," Amy says as she and Serena run off. "So you won a trip for two to Tahiti from the 'Sexiest Sports Commentator in the Galaxy'," says Darien. "Sure did," says Russell, knowing Darien was there when he did it. "I've taken Serena there for a day. It's really a nice place. You and Amy will enjoy it there," says Darien, "Anyway, that was a pretty good tournament yesterday." "You really think so?" Russell asks. "Yeah, sports analysts and even Malcolm Boyle all said that it was a close match. It all came down to who could get the other to submit," Darien explains. "It was both luck and skill on our parts," says Russell, "All it took was one move to either win a round or lose it." "That was some of the best sword fighting I've seen from you yet," Darien complements. "And the same to you," Russell returns. "Darien looks at Russell's face where he had wounded it yesterday, "No cut, not even a scar?" "Like most people, I sought the healing powers of someone I know," says Russell. "So, what do you have planned for this ball?" Darien asks. "I have a very special surprise in store for Amy," Russell replies. "Really, what kind of surprise?" Darien asks enthusiastically. "Sorry, buddy," Russell declines, "I haven't even told my own mother." "So you and Amy were early, huh? Don't worry, this place will be crowded as usual in about half-an-hour," says Darien. The pianist finishes his piece as he signals the special music band to prepare for another composition. "Well, they're playing the last song before all the guests come in," says Darien, "I'ma go look for Serena. See 'ya Russell." 2 Hours Later... Russell finishes chatting with Malcolm Boyle and a few other guys when the music starts up again. He immediately begins looking for Amy, but ends up running into Raye. "Hi Russell, where's Amy?" she asks. "I have no clue. She went with Mina somewhere an hour ago after she arrived," Russell responds, "I'm looking for her right now." "Alright, see 'ya Russell," says Raye as she goes back to talking with a few other girls. Later, he finds Amy chatting with her mother in the dining hall and walks up to the couple. "Amy, Russell's back," her mother says in response to Russell's approach. Amy turns back to see Russell's shining smile, practically begging Amy to come with him. "Go on, Amy," her mother says, reading between the lines, "Enjoy your time with him." 'Oh yes, that's right,' Amy thinks to her self as she grabs Russell's hand and drags him out to the dance floor. The room lights up in a blue waving light with white light reflecting off the disco ball, creating a rather familiar environment. Amy relaxes as the jazz band and special music band play a piece along with the background sounds of the ocean, all which are quite familiar to the couple. "One of the songs we danced to that first night," Russell says softly as they begin to slow dance. Felling totally relaxed and comfortable in Russell's muscular arms, surrounded in the sweet-smelling aroma of his cologne, Amy presses her body against his. She then closes her eyes and concentrates on the moment, feeling as if she's actually in the ocean with her handsome merman. Later, the song ends, but the oceanic sounds keep playing as the special music band plays a tranquil piece on their synthesizers. Amy lightly rubs her face on Russell's chest, as if it were a pillow. It's like that throughout the song; Amy seems to fall asleep in Russell's arms. Halfway through the dance, she feels a hand gently caress her bare and fragile back, sending chills up and down her spine. The sensation breaks her from her trance and causes her to tense up, but for only a second. She then realizes that she enjoys this sensation. She relaxes again, closes her eyes, and slips her hand under Russell's shoulder plate and gently squeezes his shoulder. The aquatic background creates a truly romantic environment, one that all the guests seem to enjoy as they envelop themselves in it's relaxing sounds and ocean inspired music. Some of the couples, including Serena and Darien, dance to it with the same emotion as Russell and Amy. It's odd how such a shy girl really knows how to choose her romantic environment. After the song ends, the aquatic background sounds end, but the light effects continue. This tranquil ocean environment isn't going to let up just yet. Anticipating the next song, Amy lets up from Russell's chest, removes her arm from under Russell's shoulder pad, and wraps them around his firm neck. Russell pulls Amy closer to him as the special music band combines with the strings band to play another familiar piece. "I remember this song," says Russell. "I requested it for this moment," Amy replies. It is the same captivating song as the last oceanic song Russell and Amy danced to on that first night. As they dance with the rhythm of the song, Amy lies her head on Russell's chest and lightly brushes the back of his neck with the backs of her fingers. Throughout the dance, they seem to concentrate just on the moment. The enchanting song whisks the couple away as they gracefully and passionately dance the night away. A while after that last dance ends, Amy sits on the balcony, gazing at the stars, and listening to strings band play a classical dance piece. 'I wonder what kind of surprise Russell has in store for me,' Amy thinks to herself as a shooting star catches her eye. Russell walks out onto the balcony after chatting with Darien to find his beloved Amy leaning on the rail and gazing towards the sky. "Amy," he calls out, getting her attention. He walks up to the rail and rests his hands on it, putting most of his weight on them. He takes a look at Amy, who smiles at his glimmering purple eyes. Russell returns her smile and turns back to the sky. He feels a hand lie on top of his. He lets the weight off that hand and takes Amy's hand into his. He looks at Amy to see her short blue hair waving gracefully in the gentle breeze. Russell takes his other hand, reaches behind his head, and grabs at the base of his ponytail. He grabs the band that's keeping his hair pulled back and yanks it out with much force. He then vigorously shakes his head, freeing his long, wavy hair from its prison. The sight of her beau's long black hair flowing effortlessly in the breeze only makes her fall even deeper in love with him. She pulls her face closer to his as their lips meet. Much love and passion grows between the couple, as Amy's lips part, allowing Russell to let out his desire. Amy totally envelops herself in the moment, feeling Russell's fire burning within. They break apart and gaze into each other's eyes. Russell gazes into her sapphire blue eyes, glistening like the pond in the Earth's light. He can't help but to succumb to her beauty. He can't hold back his surprise any longer. The time to unveil his surprise gets no better than this. He reaches into his suit, but leaves it there as he backs up from Amy and dwells on the glistening blue eyes and the ocean blue hair flowing in the breeze. "Amy, your beauty reminds me of the enchanting oceans of Earth," he complements, "I've heard from Darien about the legendary mermaids. Half-woman, half-fish, just the mere sight of these goddess of the sea capture the hearts of travelling sailors. The glitter in your sparkling blue eyes is like the ocean glistening in the moonlight, and your blue hair is like the gentle sea breeze, guiding the sailors across the vast beauty of the ocean. Like the ocean, Amy, you are so full of life, I just can't help but to fall deeper in love with you. The serene ocean within you has tamed the raging inferno burning inside of me. I know now that you are the perfect one." He pulls his hand out of his suit, revealing the ring box. He grabs it with both hands. "I have searched for something that truly represents you, something that brings out the features of the ocean, and of your divine beauty," he says as he opens the ring box. Amy looks on, her eyes shimmering in complete awe as she looks at an elegant ring made from white gold with an ice blue crystal in the shape of a pair of dolphins. Like Russell said, it truly captures the beauty of the ocean. "Oh, Russell," she gasps, "It's absolutely enchanting. It's perfect." Russell kneels down on one knee, while taking Amy's right hand with his left. 'Alright, how do I do this, with poetry... ah the heck with it. I'll just get to the point,' he thinks to himself, then lets it out, "Princess Amy, will you marry me?" Tears roll down her delicate cheeks as she pulls Russell up and gives him tight embrace, crying into his shoulder. Russell returns her embrace, wondering why she's crying after he had proposed to her. "Amy, what's wrong?" he asks. Amy lets up from Russell, with tears still rolling down her cheeks. "I'm fine, I've just never been so happy in my life," she whimpers, then gasps as she tries to hold back her sobs, "Of course I'll marry you." Russell removes the ring from its box and gently slips it onto Amy's fragile finger. They then embrace again, knowing that they'll be together for eternity, but eternity doesn't seem to be long enough. Amy brushes Russell's lips with her own, probing her tongue into his open mouth and letting out all that passion that such a shy girl had kept bottled up for all these ages. Russell returns her intentions with his own fiery passion, figuring that he and Amy were destined to be together, that they were made in Heaven for one another. As they break their kiss, Russell glances up toward the stars and thanks God for guiding him to the perfect girl. ------------------------------end of prologue-------------------------- Well, here's the prologue to my new entry, "Children of Fire". This prologue shows y'all a lot. Raye learns her attack for casting out evil, even though she learns it in the present before she even found out she was Sailor Mars. Russell learns his most powerful attack, "Inferno Fury". Enough of summarizin', y'all can pretty much figure everythang out. Read Chapter 1 when I submit it, that's where the real story begins. Y'all e-mail me with comments and criticism, a'ight? Have fun Sailor Moon fans, Viper Inferno (Y2V)