Chapter 10: Makai Tree Part 2

As the cardian's tendrils crashed through the shrine, the Sailor Scouts arrived with their usual dramatic flair.

"MOON PRISM POWER!" Usagi transformed, then immediately tripped over a fallen branch. "I meant to do that!"

Rei rolled her eyes. "Smooth, Usagi. Real smooth."

Sailor Mercury adjusted her visor, looking more like she was solving a math problem than fighting a supernatural threat. "Analyzing the cardian's molecular structure. Fascinating energy patterns!"

"Less science, more fighting!" Jupiter punched the air, accidentally knocking Venus sideways.

"Hey!" Venus yelped. "Watch the hair!"

Tuxedo Mask landed dramatically, his cape billowing. "I've arrived to-" A cardian vine smacked him mid-speech, sending him tumbling.

Kurama, hovering overhead, pulled out his phone. "This is AMAZING content for my fans!"

Tomoe face-palmed. "We're in the middle of a supernatural invasion, and you're worried about social media?"

"Influencer life never stops," Kurama winked.

Heather, surrounded by swirling ice crystals, looked utterly done. "Can we FOCUS?"

The cardian seemed confused by the chaos, its massive form momentarily stunned by the Scouts' less-than-coordinated attack.

"VENUS LOVE CHAIN!" Venus's attack went wide, wrapping around Sailor Jupiter instead.

"Really?" Jupiter deadpanned.

Mizuki's snake familiar slithered by, looking thoroughly unimpressed. "Professionals," it hissed sarcastically.

Ali and Ann watched from above, their confident invasion plan rapidly falling apart.

"Is this... normal for them?" Ann whispered.

Ali shrugged. "Apparently."

Heather's divine mark began to glow, her ice powers responding to the absolute ridiculousness of the situation. Cherry blossom-shaped ice crystals formed, each one looking more like a comedic weapon than a serious threat.

"MOON PRINCESS HALATION!" Usagi's attack went off - but not quite where she intended.

The cardian blinked. The Sailor Scouts looked at each other.

Tomoe turned to Heather. "Your protectors are... unique."

"Tell me about it," Heather sighed, creating a small frost pattern that looked suspiciously like an eye-roll.

The battle continued, part supernatural showdown, part supernatural comedy routine.

Just another day protecting Tokyo.