"Well, here we are." Mina walked into her apartment with Malachite at her heels. She placed her keys on the kitchen counter as Malachite closed the door and surveyed the room. He was quite amazed at how small the apartment was. He couldn't quite understand why Mina would live in the apartment.

"Nice place. What is this, a bachelor's apartment?"

"Actually, yes but not anymore. My father owns this apartment building and turned this one into a regular apartment for me." She kept eyeing him in places she shouldn't. "Take a look around. I'm going to put on some coffee. Would you like some?"

"I'd love some."

"Good," she replied, moving over to start up the coffee maker. It took a few minutes to get everything prepared. "There, that's done. Now I'm going upstairs to change."

"There's an upstairs?" Malachite was glancing all around the kitchen but turned back to face Mina.

"Of course. The living room and kitchen is down here with a small bathroom. At the top of the stairs is the bedroom and a bigger bathroom."

He moved closer to her to whisper in her ear. "Easy access."

Mina turned to face him. "You disgust me," she mocked, teasingly.

"If I didn't," he placed both hands against the cupboards, trapping Mina, "you would not allow me to be this close to you or touch you."

"You made your point." She ducked under his arm, heading towards the living room. "You can stay. But I can't stop you."

Malachite crossed over to her. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"I figure...correction -- I know you're not going to stay down here. You're going to follow me."

"And you can't stop me. I like it."

"Now..."

Malachite grasped her arms, spinning her around, and kissed her. Mina had anticipated the move. As they were tongue locked, Malachite moved his hands under Mina's shirt, trying to divest her of her bra. Her hands stayed at his back. Finally she had enough of his hands at her back. She seductively moved her hands around the front and lower. He jumped back quickly in shock, letting go of her. Never before in his life had anyone ever groped him like that, not that he could remember.

"Thank you for letting go. I think you needed a little touch of reality. You're here to protect me, not to seduce me. Besides the coffee is ready," Mina said, turning around.

"Is it..." Malachite stumbled. For a few moments he stood there quiet until he had his composure. "Is it better than Raye's?"

"Yes," she chuckled. "It's from Canada. It's called...Oh, what is that name?" Mina opened all the cupboards to find the coffee can. Finally over by the door she found it.

"Damn, it's up there."

"Here, I'll get it." Malachite floated up to grab it.

"Cheater," Mina said snatching the can.

"I may be be a cheater but you're a sneaky little witch."

"But you love me just the same." She winked at him. "It's Tim Horton's from Canada. The best coffee ever made there. Do you have any idea how much this costs?"

"No, but..." Malachite said but was cut off by sudden knock at the door.

"Don't people know, I do have a door bell," Mina said, answering the door.

"Raye, Jedite, Chad!" she gasped. She noticed Raye was crying and quickly wrapped her arms around her friend and escorted her to the living room, where they sat on the sofa. "What's wrong?"

"It's...it's..." Raye mumbled, not able to get the words out. Mina cuddled Raye as she wept.

"Raye is no condition to explain. Enlighten us, Jedite. What is wrong?" Malachite said.

"Emerald and Rubeus kidnapped Grandpa," Jedite explained.

"Damn!" Mina cried out. Raye cried even harder. The scout of love didn't know what to do.

"Here, Raye," Malachite said softly. He handed her a cup of coffee. When Mina took Raye over to the sofa, he went and made a cup of Raye.

It took her a few moments to stop trembling. "Thank you," she choked, pulling out of Mina's arms, accepting the coffee.

"Jedite, sorry for the argument earlier," Chad said. "I never realized how much you would be dedicated to your duty."

"Forgotten, Chad." Jedite sat beside Raye, rubbing her back. "Guardians are there for that purpose."

Chad was completely thrown off guard. He couldn't believe that Jedite would forget about their argument. He looked to Mina and Raye, seeing them for the first time as scouts and guardians to the Moon Princess.

"The job in the girls' case was to protect their Princess and us to protect our Prince," Jedite continued. "On the Moon the Sailor Scouts and we four generals were in forbidden relationships. That is, until Princess Serena convinced her mother that we can love and do our duty."

"I will be right back." Mina stood to walk away.

Raye placed her cup on the coffee table, spilling the hot liquid and then bellowed out, "No, Mina!" She grabbed Mina's arm fast enough that Mina lost her footing and fell on Jedite.

"Raye!"

Raye removed her hold on Mina. "I'm sorry. I don't want to lose you too."

"Mina will go upstairs and I will accompany her if you'd like," Malachite responded kneeling down beside Raye.

She glanced at Malachite and before anyone could react she threw herself into his arms and started crying again. "Please."

"Ok. Since the Negaverse has Grandpa. That would mean...Dear god! Jedite, were you on route to anywhere besides here?" Mina asked urgently, getting off of him.

"We're on our way to Neflite's. Why?"

"I think it would be better if we go together. If my senses are right, which they usually are, they will try to get Raye while you're off guard."

"How is that?" Chad asked.

"Raye is emotional. They are expecting her to be emotional. My guard is practically down trying to keep her from being irrational," Jedite explained.

"Exactly. They will be expecting this." Mina knelt down beside Malachite and spoke softly. "Raye, I'm going to go upstairs to freshen up." She hoped Raye would get the hint and let go of Malachite. Raye removed her arms, tears streaming down her face, and moved back on the sofa. Sitting quietly, she leaned against Jedite for comfort.

"Chad, sit on the other side of her. You two are to guard her," Mina commanded.

"I have one question. Why are you giving me orders?" Chad hoped his voice didn't sound sarcastic.

"Because she is the second in command along with Malachite," Jedite answered. "When Serena and Darien are around I take orders from them."

Mina handed Jedite her watch communicator. "Here, call the others. There is a button on the back to turn the watch into a communicator. After, push this nine times to activate all communicators. Raye, why don't you come up stairs afterwards to freshen up?"

Raye nodded. "Malachite, look after Mina. Grandpa, Mina and the others are like family to me," Raye said harshly.

"I will." Malachite gently lifted her chin and kissed her cheek then followed Mina upstairs.

Jedite watched as the two went upstairs. When they were out of sight, he activated the communicator. "Everyone, we have a serious problem. The Negaverse has Grandpa."

Serena's face appeared. "Where are you, Jedite?"

"Mina's, but I will be heading to Neflite's soon."

"Stay there. Lita, you and Zoisite get over to Mina's. No one is getting my friends."

"Ok," Lita's voice came through but no image.

"Amy, contact the Trio and Quartet. Tell them we need them. Then go to Mina's. The rest of you head over to Nelfite's," Serena commanded. "Zoisite, where is the house?"

"West of city limits. Just look for an old fashion style mansion with a sign on the gates that says `Stanton Manor'. A forest surrounds the place but the house is visible. I can contact him and let him know of our present status."

"Do it. We must hurry. Jedite, is Chad with you?"

"Yes."

"Raye." Amara's face was now showing. "We'll get Grandpa back. We might not always see eye to eye on everything but we are part of the Moon Kingdom. Nobody gets my friends and gets away with it," she hissed.

"Let's go!" Serena commanded. The communicator went dead.

"Wow. Are the Trio and Quartet...?"

"Like the sisters. Yes, Jedite. They used to be our enemies but they saved Serena's life and she healed them." Raye said.

"I didn't know everyone could hear you," Jedite said.

"You'd be amazed at what the communicators can do."

Jedite turned to see Mina and Malachite descend the stairs. Mina was all cleaned up and refreshed.

"Come on, Raye, let's get you freshened up before the others get here."

Raye stood to walk towards Mina. But before reaching Mina she collapsed. Mina was the first to reach her.

"Raye," Jedite shouted and ran over.

Mina held up her hand to silent the others and pulled Raye into her lap. The guys knelt down beside the girls.

"I'm ok. It's just I couldn't hold myself up any longer," Raye replied. She placed her hand on Jedite's leg. "Mina, help me up."

With Jedite's help Mina was able to get Raye back on her feet. Jedite made sure she had her balance before letting her go.

"Thanks, but I'll manage," Mina said. Jedite watched the girls leave. Suddenly he felt a hand on his shoulder. He looked to his side to see his comrade.

"They will be ok," Malachite assured him.

* * * * * * * *

Neflite and Molly were taking a walk around the yard, holding hands. He was giving her the grand tour of the grounds. She really didn't understand why he held her so tight, but had an idea that the Negaverse was involved. Molly glanced at her watch. It was almost time for her appointment. Neflite had been quiet since the tour began. He had been listening to Molly talking all about the wedding of her dreams. They were standing in front of the tennis court when she decided to break Neflite's silence.

"Is there a problem?" she asked, moving to face him.

"Yes," he answered coldly. "Zoisite sent me a message. The Negaverse captured Raye's grandfather. She's at Mina's right now."

Molly gasped.

"Plus Mina thinks they are after Raye." He looked down at his future wife.

Molly moved closer placing her free hand on his cheek. "Are the scouts coming here?"

Neflite nodded. Without even a hesitation he tilted his head down to kiss her. As his tongue penetrated, he pulled her tight against him. Pulling back for a moment he spoke, his voice thick with passion.

"Molly," he whispered rubbing her back. She was getting used to it fast. "I love you. And no one, and I mean no one is getting between you, our baby and me. My family."

She gazed at him, eyes watering with joy. "Neflite, I love you so much. I know you will protect us. Your new family."

A smile was slowly curving his lips, but before the smile was full, Molly twisted in his arms and got up on her toes to press her lips to his with all her strength. Neflite was stunned by her quick action. He felt her tongue shoot possessively into his mouth and was instantly taken off guard. He couldn't believe how fast she was adapting. Neflite wanted to stay with her but someone spoke from behind him.

"Excuse me, lip lockers."

They both jumped at the sound. To their surprise it were only Serena and the others. Serena had her hand linked with Darien's.

"Don't f--do that!" Neflite blurted when he had his breath. He was about to use profanity but there was a baby on the way, and he didn't want his stepdaughter or son to know of those words until they were old enough.

"Sorry, but you looked like you were enjoying yourselves."

"Serena!" Molly ran over to her friend giving her a hug.

"Molly!" Serena burst, almost falling over. She hugged her friend. "What was that for? I thought you were angry," she asked after Molly let go.

"Neflite helped me to understand why you lied. I've missed you so much. A lot has happened. Neflite has already told me about Raye. However, I do have a little good news." Molly was having a hard time controlling her excitement.

Serena looked to Neflite as he walked over with a genuine smile.

Without even speaking any further she lifted her hand to show everyone the diamond ring.

Serena gasped in happiness, as did the others. "Oh, Molly. I'm happy for you. Congratulations." Serena now knew Molly would be okay. Looking at Neflite straight in the face she said, "Take care of her. She's like family."

"Don't worry, I will. There's more to tell, but now is not the time." He looked to Molly. "We should wait until Raye's grandfather is back."

Molly nodded in agreement. She glanced at her watch again. "Neflite, my appointment."

"Look after her. I fear the Negaverse may want her to."

"Will do," Serena answered.

Neflite walked over to Molly and kissed her forehead. Then, in a swirl of red energy he was gone.

* * * * * * * *

Neflite appeared in Steven Leblanc's office. Steven looked up from preparing for his meeting with Molly. The man began to panic at the tall man's sudden appearance, and reached for the phone. Neflite acted fast. He jumped behind the desk, putting one hand over the lawyer's mouth and the other on the phone.

"I'm a friend," Neflite whispered in his ear, "I'm here about Molly Baker."

Steven sat frightened. I hope he isn't armed and dangerous. How does he know about Molly?

As if able to read his mind, Neflite answered, "I'm not dangerous. Well, I can be, but not to you. Molly is my fiancée, Neflite. She asked me to bring you to her." He released his hold of the lawyer and moved back around to the front of the desk. "Get ready to leave. We are going to my home."

Steven hesitated for a moment then complied. As he prepared, Neflite looked around the small office. There wasn't much to the office, but from papers, news and talk, he was an excellent lawyer.

Neflite was a powerful man. That much was obvious to Steven. He couldn't help but notice his resemblance to Maxfield Stanton. He even wore a suit of Maxfield's style.

"Excuse me...for asking," Steven started. Neflite didn't even look at him. He was looking at Steven's degrees and certificates. "You look like Maxfield Stanton. But he disappeared, didn't he?"

"Maxfield was killed. I am his twin brother. Are you just about ready?"

"Ummm…almost. I just need to speak with my sectary." Steven picked up the phone, which made Neflite turn and glare at him. Steven pushed a button on his phone and waited. "Jessica, hold my calls and reschedule my appointments." When he heard her response he placed the receiver back down and said nervously, "I'm ready." The man who stood before him knew Molly and knew she had an appointed. Steven decided to give Neflite the benefit of the doubt.

"Good." Neflite walked over to him. "Before leaving I have something to say. I don't really want to, but I can't have you talk about me to anyone. Please keep your mouth shut about my entrance and powers. If certain people were to find out, this world will be destroyed. Plus I will make sure you will never be able to practice law again. Am I clear on that?"

"Y--you...don't need to worry," he gulped as Neflite's eyes started to glow.

"That is nice to know." Red swirls surrounded both men. Steven watched in total shock as the room disappeared.

* * * * * * * *

Mina and her guests were in the kitchen of the apartment. Lita, Amy, Zoisite and Greg had arrived a short time ago. Lita sat on the kitchen counter. On either side of her were Greg and Amy. Malachite leaned against the doorframe to the living room with Mina beside him, holding his hand. Zoisite hovered in the air, sitting with his legs crossed. Lastly Jedite and Chad sat on either side of Raye at the table. They waited for Raye to calm down enough for travel.

Zoisite was getting frustrated with the situation. He knew Queen Beryl always had a pattern to all of her plans. But this plan was too bizarre. What was Beryl's angle? First, Tellulu set the fire to McKenna Park, and then tried to get Mina the same night. Raye's grandfather was in the hands of the Negaverse and now they were after Raye. It had been a hectic twenty-four hours.

"Mina," Zoisite said, floating down to the floor. "I think we all know who Beryl wants."

"Darien, more than likely." Mina answered.

"Were there any enemies after you girls?" Jedite asked.

"Yeah, Prince Diamond wanted Serena. Oh shit. He'll want her again." Lita jumped up.

"Was there anyone else?" Greg asked.

"Not that I know of." Mina answered.

"Oh yes. There is Sailor Venus." Everyone turned to see Rubeus and the youma, Ninjanna appear at the door.

"Scouts transform!" Mina shouted.

"Oh come now. You must remember our passion," Rubeus said to Mina. He noticed her near Malachite. He instantly wondered why they were cuddling together.

"What the hell are you talking about?" Mina demanded, suddenly frightened.

"Simple. You are having nightmares of me. Well, those nightmares are real. We had, shall I say, sexual contact and it was quite pleasing. Like to do it again sometime," Rubeus laughed while Mina gasped in horror.

"You Bastard!" Malachite exploded.

Mina didn't know what to do. She fell to her knees as the pieces came together. She remembered now. Rubeus had all the scouts trapped in his ship, she was semi-conscious and he raped her before Sailor Moon and Rini had arrived.

Amy and Lita transformed, preparing for action. Raye was about to transform when Ninjanna spoke to her.

"Oh, Sailor Mars. What are you going to do? We have your grandfather." The Ninja warrior laughed. That brought Raye to a halt.

Sailor Mercury came up to attack but Ninjanna threw one of her ninja cards at her. The card hit Sailor Mercury. She landed against the wall bleeding. Sailor Jupiter was also in the aim but she easily dodged it.

"All right, you bastards. You're not having any one else," Malachite hissed. He moved away from Mina to attack Rubeus but Zoisite got between them.

"Zoy!" Zoisite shouted. His cherry blossoms knocked Rubeus off his feet. Malachite used his energy to make a lighting bolt like Sailor Jupiter's and threw it at both enemies. Rubeus blocked it with a shield. But he didn't have a chance to block their backs as Jupiter and Jedite teleported behind them to attack.

"JUPITER THUNDER CLAP ZAP!" the brunette shouted. Her power mixed with Jedite's fire ray, which was like Sailor Mars', knocked both Rubeus and Ninjanna to the floor.

Rubeus weakly got up and saw Ninjanna was unconscious. "You haven't seen the last of me. You'll be mine, Sailor Venus!" Rubeus disappeared, taking Ninjanna with him.

Malachite ran back over to Mina, who fell into his arms and wept. Raye meanwhile sat stunned while Jedite and Chad tried to comfort her. Zoisite and Greg went over to Amy to tend to her wounds.

"We should teleport over to Neflite's. Mina and Raye are out of action. That is what Beryl has had planned," Jedite gently informed the others.

"The Inner Scouts have this power called `Sailor Planet Power'. With this power we are able to teleport, get ourselves into dimension portals and do other things. Without either Ray or Mina we are useless in that power," Lita explained after transforming back to her regular self.

"As soon as everyone is ok, we're leaving." Malachite announced. He stroked Mina's hair, saying soothing words.

* * * * * * * *

Rubeus and Ninjanna reappeared in the throne room. Ninjanna had regained consciousness as Rubeus regained his strength. By the look in Queen Beryl's eyes, she was not impressed.

"Report," she demanded.

"Raye made it to Sailor Venus'. Jedite, Zoisite and Malachite are also there. Their powers have grown stronger than they were before. They can use the same powers as the Scouts," Rubeus explained. "I did accomplish one task."

"You are trying my patience."

"Sailor Venus is down for the count. She now knows what I did to her. There is just one problem: Malachite."

"Well, weren't you her first lover?"

"As far as I know."

"Well find out. We have to know. If you weren't, who was?"

"I think I have an idea. Malachite."

"Malachite? Why him?" Prince Diamond came out of the shadows.

"When I was there, they were cuddled together. Plus Tellulu mentioned that Malachite was the one not involved in last night's little dispute. He was holding her."

"Find out. I want to know if she will regain her position of second in command," Beryl demanded. "Rubeus, stay out of their sight. Malachite will tare you to pieces. He is the strongest out of them all."

"What about Sailor Mars?" Rubeus asked, and then suddenly regretted it. He knew Beryl wasn't one for wanting to hear questions, especially questions on her enemies.

"Don't ask unintelligent questions. I doubt anyone will let her of their sight. As soon as you find out about Sailor Venus, maybe we can use it to our advantage. She slept with the enemy. She'd be classified as a traitor.

"Majesty, someone should go with him," Prince Diamond said. "If two scouts and three ex-generals can defeat Rubeus, imagine how much stronger they would be with everyone."

"Fine." Beryl's patience was now gone. "Prince Diamond, Rubeus, Tellulu and Sailor Tin Nycanko, find out the truth." At the sound of her voice, they were gone. "Ninjanna, report to the training area now," Beryl ordered.

"Yes, your majesty." Ninjanna bowed, disappearing through the floor. She hated knowing that she had failed.

"You know something, old man?" Beryl looked to the grandfather. He was now in a cage hanging ten feet in the air with no attachments and away from the throne. "I have a group of idiots and your granddaughter has such good protectors and loyal friends. But soon she will not. Then we'll see who wins."

Grandpa glared daggers at the evil woman. With his illness he wasn’t able to do much of anything else. But something was off though, he didn’t seem to so sick anymore. Was the evil witch curing him?

* * * * * * * *