Yearning for Completion
By: Sandreline
Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon or InuYasha. If I did, they would have turned out differently!
Hello everyone! Now that I have completed "A Dog's Nose Knows", I can bust out this beauty that has been running rampant in my mind. I hope you enjoy! It's going to be a shorter series. I also am working on a sequel to "The Work Proposal", so keep an eye out for that.
Get a copy of my first book, "Her Motivation" at the Amazon Kindle store, or direct through my website:
books
Second book is launching soon!
Due to new ratings and removing stories… this is a MA rating. However, the smutty smut (though not as well written as my friend MegaKat's) is going to only be posted on Archive of Our Own. My penname there is Sandreline_Moon if you want the FULL story in its smutty glory.
I hope you all enjoy the latest craze from my muse!
Yearning For Completion
Chapter 1: Secrets
"I have to… I need to," she told herself, hands clasped before her as blue eyes settled longingly on the planet in the distance.
"Please," she prayed as her form began to glow a soft silvery. "Take me to the beautiful planet…"
"Princess, no!" Came a familiar cry; but it was too late. The figure was gone.
8888888888
When blue eyes opened once more, they landed on unfamiliar territory.
It was breathtaking.
Green grass rested under her bare feet, hidden by the sweeping of her white skirts of her gown. Rushing water filled her ears from the natural waterfall before, the small pure pond trickling down and across from her. The brown and green trees towered above her head, and the sound of animals in the forest surrounded her.
"It is even more beautiful than I imagined…" she whispered to her herself as she took a step forward, inhaling the smell of the foreign land.
Lifting the petticoats of her gown, she let her toes dip into the clear waters of the pond. She let out a chime of a laugh at the cool sensation, and with a small smile she tilted her head back to look at the night sky.
Her home hung in the distance, shining as brightly as it did on her brow. The stars and other planets surrounded it in the black canvas, twinkling like diamonds as they observed her deviant behavior.
Lunarians were not to venture to Earth.
Her mother had expressly forbidden her to. Spoke of dangers and darkness of the inhabitants hearts.
The princess was to be protected at all costs, always surrounded by her best friends, who were also her personal guard. She did not know the evils of Terrans, and was to just watch and protect the planet as needed. Their souls were marked by wickedness, unlike those of her kind.
Yet here she was; finally taking in the sights if Earth with her own eyes and not from books, experiencing firsthand what she had dreamed about for years.
Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath and savored the smells and sounds of Earth.
A terrifying howl filled the air.
Her eyes snapped open, terror filling her form. It was deep, and powerful; she could physically feel the animal sound travel through her body…
It was right behind her.
Spinning around, her hair and gown fanned out as she faced the source of her terror.
A wall of white fur met her gaze.
Slowly, the blue-eyed goddess turned her gaze upwards… and upwards… and further still. Looking down at her with the red eyes of a beast and sharp, dangerous fangs the size of her person was a dog.
A large and terrifying beast of a dog, whose height matched the trees of their surroundings. It let out a rumble of a growl, staring down at her with eyes that were a mix of confusion, interest, and caution.
With a gasp, the young woman took a step back. The dog's gaze did not leave hers, instead choosing to lower its massive head closer to her form. Taking in a deep breath, the growling stopped. Instead, the frightening creature gave a tilt of its head, once again sniffing her person.
"You… what are you?" The young woman finally realized as her fright, though still present, was slowly fading. The creature did not seem to want to harm her; it appeared curious, if its inquiring sniffing was any notion.
A giant nose came even closer, and took in her scent so strongly that the young woman almost lost her balance. The beast let out its breath in a huff, and her fear vanished completely.
It would seem that curiosity was a dominant trait in the strangers, and the mutual fascination would act as a bond.
"You gave me a fright, I will have you know." Her soothing voice rang out as she further examined his form. "You seem like a creature that few would dare attempt to harm."
A snort was her reply, and it was the young woman's turn to tilt her head in curiosity. "It is almost as if you can understand me…" Slowly, she reached out a pale hand towards the nose that just half an arm's length away, and when he lay before her she felt more confident. She hesitated just a moment, watching blood red eyes stare at her form before she set her hand on the softest fur she had ever known.
"Wow," She cheered, lifting her other hand to join in petting the silky white fur. "You are magnificent..." She breathed. Suddenly, she blushed. "My apologies," she stated, removing her hands. "I have not yet introduced myself. I am Serenity, Princess of the Moon Kingdom, daughter of Queen Selenity, goddess of the Moon." She lifted the sides of her skirts as she sank into a perfect curtsy. "Of course, since you are obviously one of the animal species of this planet, that probably means nothing to you…" The princess babbled on as she lifted her gaze once more.
Rising from her position, she noticed that once again the large head was tilted slightly to the side, but it appeared that the red eyes were now calculating. "You are not like the other creatures that I have heard that live here. You are definitely bigger than I imagined, too." Serenity said to herself. Her eyes once more turned to the crescent moon on his brow. "I wonder what it means? There are so many different religions and traditions on this planet; it makes me wonder of your association with my home."
The beast stared down at her form, the red gaze piercing her as if trying to figure out this strange unknown creature. After a moment, the dog threw its great head back and let out a long howl.
This time, Serenity was not frightened. This howl was different somehow; the first sounded as if it was a warning, and this one was almost soothing. As if her beastly acquaintance was attempting to reassure her in a way.
Every sound that the forest had made before was silenced. It was eerie, and for a few moments nothing happened. Then, several other howls sounded around them, though far off in the distance.
The giant white dog let out small series of growls, and the silence followed again. Almost as if he was proud of himself, the great head once more lowered down to study the small slip of a female that had appeared before it in a silver light.
She moved to place her hands on his snout once more, running them through the fur. Sending a wary glance at the creature, she moved to walk along his snout, then running her hands long the stripes on his cheeks. A soft rumble came from her companion at her touch as the red eyes lowered in contentment, and Serenity gave a small laugh. "My mark is sensitive, too." She told him, running her hands along them again, feeling confident in her complete safety with the beast now. "Thank you," she told him after a moment.
One of the large eyes opened to wider, as if asking her to elaborate. "At home, I am isolated." Serenity answered, still stroking his fur in fascination. "I can never go anywhere with my guardians, and mother had always forbidden me to journey to Earth." Here her tone turned a little sad. "Even though my friends are always with me, they still see me as the future ruler first, and are always quick to remind me of my royal duties. There are times I feel… I just want to have a bit of freedom. I wish for someone to see me as I am, not as the future ruler of this galaxy."
Another rumble from the dog made her smile. "You are very easy to talk to. Thank you for lending me such a large ear to listen to." She told him, and in a daring move placed a gentle kiss in the stripe that she had been caressing. "I would like to think, strangers though we are, that we have somehow connected."
Another rumble was her reply, which earned another laugh from her. "Are all such creatures of this planet like you? I cannot fight this feeling that you understand me." She repeated. Serenity watched as the head pulled back, and he let out a bark.
"I think I need to find a name for you; otherwise, I am just going to keep calling you 'giant beast'." The Lunarian tapped her chin. "Do you like Fluffy?"
A soft growl of warning was her answer, and she gave a laugh. "Very well, something more fitting to your nature… hmm…" she continued to think out loud. "You are rather impressive in size, but there is something almost regal about you." Serenity mentioned. "What about Prince?"
A short bark seemed to find her companion in agreement, so she nodded. "Very well. I hereby dub you Prince." She smiled as he lowered his head to her once again, and she quickly returned to sliding her hands through the fur of his face. "Do you live nearby, Prince? Do you have a family?"
Red eyes gazed into her blue ones, and she had a feeling that if he could, he would not want to discuss it. "Touchy subject? Very well. I only have my mother. My father died in a war many years ago when I was young. There was an invasion by a man named the Doom Phantom, and my father lead the fight against him. It was over two hundred years ago, and I only have a few memories. Mother doesn't like to talk about it much."
A nuzzle had her smiling softly. "It's alright." She pat his snout again. "I am just excited to be here, on earth." She looked up at the night sky. "My home is very beautiful, but bland. My Mother's rule ensures true peace in our galaxy. Our whole kingdom is white marble and crystal. It's the blue and green of the earth that I have always admired. Sure, we have flowers, but it is not the same. We don't have trees like you do, or even oceans like Mercury and Neptune."
A slight tilt of the head was her reply. "That's right; I had forgotten that Earth was still young in its development. My history lessons say that long ago, the children of this planet had become so corrupt that they destroyed themselves and the planet. The gods and goddess had to restart." She was comfortable enough with him now to lean towards the blue moon on his brow, running a gentle hand over the mark. "Their actions are why the humans of this land are now mortal; my ancestors deemed that they no longer deserved the blessings of long life. It's that envy that forbids those of my kind to venture to here." She smiled at the beast. "Though I am very glad to have met you, Prince."
The large snout nuzzled her, and she smiled. "I am glad that I snuck away to this planet. I fail to see the dangers that everyone has told me about. It seems like a lovely place." Serenity turned around, taking in the beauty of the land before her once again. "I wish I could stay longer."
"You have stayed too long as it is."
A gasp from Serenity and a threatening growl from the giant dog were directed at the tan woman with long green hair. She held an intricate staff in her hand as her maroon colored eyes leveled on the Princess.
The giant beast rose to his paws with teeth barred as he continued to growl, warning away the intruder. Prince stood over the silver-haired woman protectively as green liquid seeped from its teeth. When it made contact with the dirt below, it sizzled away anything it touched. Serenity shrank back against his paws. Her new companion had acid saliva!
"I would think twice before attacking me, puppy." The woman's voice rang out in warning before turning back to the silver-haired woman. "Princess, you must return home. You are in danger here, and among those you know nothing of."
Prince's growl became louder at her words, not liking the meaningful glance the strange woman sent. "Pluto." Serenity answered with a tone of familiarity. Who was this woman to collect his prize?
"If we leave now, I need not inform your mother that you left the protection of the Moon and your guardians. Venus has been fretting ever since you teleported away from her." Sailor Pluto reprimanded.
"Venus doesn't know anything!" Serenity cried out, now leaning against Prince's massive paw for support. "This planet is safe, and I've made a friend! If I return, they will never leave me alone! I am the future Queen, and soon it will be my duty to watch over Earth. Why shouldn't I be here?"
"Princess," the guardian's tone had changed. It was still stern, but soothing. "There are evils on this planet that you could not image. It is my job to keep you safe."
"I want to stay longer with my friend." Serenity pouted.
"I can force you if I must." Sailor Pluto warned.
A feral bark was unleashed, but the Guardian of Time and Space merely pointed her staff at the creature across from her. "Demon, I can annihilate you without a second's thought."
"No!" Serenity cried out as she ran forward, her arms help open. "Pluto, I forbid you to harm Prince."
Sailor Pluto watched the beast's reaction; it was clearly surprised that the small woman raced to his defense. Clearly her princess was not aware of the true identity of her companion. The Lunarian continued in a dejected tone. "I will come home."
A bark sounded behind her, and she turned around. A nose was once more nuzzling her, giving her a nudge. "It's ok, Prince." She told him, running her fingers over this nose again. Giving a whisper, she added, "I'll come back soon."
She placed another kiss on his snout, her heart heavy at this whimper. Stepping away, she walked to her guardian's side. "Mars is going to yell at me, isn't she?" Serenity asked.
Pluto smiled kindly. "She was literally spitting fire."
"Joy." The princess remarked. Turning sad blue eyes to Prince, they disappeared.
He watched for a moment, before tilting his head back. Looking at the bright orb in the sky, where he knew she now was, he let out a howl.
8888888888
"Serenity!" Gave the cry of rage. "What were you thinking?" The guardian of Mars cried out when her princess appeared. "I'll tell you what you were thinking: nothing!"
"Calm down, Mars." The guardian of Jupiter remarked with her arms crossed. "She's fine, she was just curious."
"It was still a very reckless action to pursue." Sailor Mercury cut in. "Princess, you really must be more careful and calculating in your decisions."
"I am fine, nothing happened." The Lunarian responded. "I just… I had to go. I can't just stand here longing for it all the time."
Sailor Venus came sliding around the corner, wrapping her arms around her cousin. "Thank Aphrodite that you are safe!" She exclaimed, before stepping away. "Don't you dare do that to me again! You are grounded!"
"Venus," Jupiter sighed.
Sailor Pluto gave a smile as she watched the inner Guardians and her princess. With a nod of her head, she returned to the Time Gate. So far, everything was as it should be.
After a stern talking to and a lecture, Serenity returned to her room to sleep. Walking to her window before bed, she glanced at the planet in the sky. Prince came to her mind, and she wondered if he was alright. "I'll see him tomorrow." She promised to herself with a smile. "I hope."
8888888888
"Prince?"
Silver light had faded, leaving Serenity in the same clearing from the night before. "Prince?" The Lunarian looked around, hoping to catch a glimpse of her new friend. He would be easy to find, though it appeared he had not come. "Bother," she whined, falling to the ground as her skirts billowed around her. She placed her chin in her hands, looking at the water as it fell from the falls into the pond. "He must not live around here after all. I had been hoping to see him again."
Serenity's chest felt heavy with disappointment. Leaning forward, she let her pale fingers touch the cool waters as they went passed, small hints of white and gold in the water showing her the life that swam in its shallow depths. She smiled, enthralled with the new discovery as she rose to her knees to lean forward more.
Looking through her reflection, she saw the fish as they swam. With a small giggle, she swirled a finger tip at the surface, laughing when one golden fish tickled the tip with a nip.
A familiar reflection of white covered the water, and Serenity smiled brightly as she turned around. "Prince!" She cried out, leaping to her feet. "You would think that a creature of your size would make noise when he walks." She teased.
His nose nuzzled her, pushing just hard enough for the princess to step backwards into the water. "Hey!" She cried out with a laugh. "Now my feet and dress are wet."
A bark was her reply, and she could see his fluffy tail wag behind him.
"So you think that's funny, do you?" She told him with a smirk. Swooping down, she cupped her two hands together and filled them with the cool water, before splashing the snout of the giant dog. "Take that!"
Twin ears perked up, and a simple nudge of his nose had her now on her rear end in the water. Her wide eyes expression of shock caused Prince to let out a bark that sounded far too much like a laugh for Serenity's liking. "Cheater!" She cried out playfully, before splashing him several more times.
Within minutes she was completely soaked, though to her credit Prince's face was dripping wet. Thankfully her gown was thick and she need not worry about her modesty, but she did shiver slightly from the sudden cold. Allowing her to exit the shallow waters, Prince laid down before her. Doing as she please, she moved between his two paws and leaned against his chest. "If you get wet, you have only yourself to blame." She told him, leaning back into this warm fur. A rumble at her back had her smiling. "I am glad that I could see you again." She told him.
Together the pair sat in silence, simply enjoying the company and the nature around them. Prince's body heat had the princess dry and warm rather quickly, though she stayed where she was.
As the night passed, Serenity found that she had fallen asleep curled up in her companion. Grudgingly waking up, she fisted his fur. "I should go home; before they found out I left." She told him.
A whimper met her ears. "Don't worry, Prince," she told him. "I'll be back tomorrow night. I want to explore this planet more; you can come with me, if you want. You must know the layout of this land very well."
His next rumble she translated as his consent, and she smiled. "Night, Prince." She told him. Finally forcing herself to rise, she kissed his stripe just as the night before and vanished.
Left behind was a curious beast that was strangely welcoming to the sense of attachment he was feeling over her.
8888888888
The next time that Serenity teleported to where she had dubbed 'their secret spot', Prince was waiting for her. She didn't come empty handed, either. With a bright smile, she held up her picnic basket to show him. "Look!" She told him. "I brought us a snack for our walk!"
He rumbled in reply. "I didn't make it, don't worry." She told him. "I am a horrid cook, actually. This is left over goodies from earlier. Sailor Jupiter, one of my guardians, is an amazing cook!" Serenity told him. Another reply was her reply, and he began walking at an easy pace passed her.
The Lunarian turned and walked at his side without a moment's thought or hesitation. "Each of my friends has a unique talent, apart from being soldiers." She continued on.
Prince listened as she told him all about her friends, pausing only to admire something in the new terrain with an 'ooh' or an 'awe'. He surprisingly found that he did not mind. In fact, she rather enjoyed the sound of her voice. It was as pleasant as her scent, which he still found himself mulling over its innocence and purity.
"Mars can be so mean sometimes," She continued on, bringing Prince out of his thoughts. "However, we are still a lot closer than some of the others. She's like an annoying sister. Mars and Venus are my most valued guards; I wonder if it's because their planets are closest?" She asked out loud.
He rumbled to let her know that he was listening, and she carried on. "However, I do love the Outer Guardians just as much, even though our visits are few and far between. I think they could all use a vacation though; they take their duty far too seriously. Goddess, if Uranus knew that I was here on Earth..." She shivered, which caused her companion to wonder about this guardian. "She is so overprotective; she would probably toss me right over her shoulder to bring me home while lecturing me the whole way. Oh, what a pretty flower!"
The night continued on in much the same fashion and Prince found the goodies that she had shared with him to be delicious. The beast found himself becoming rather infatuated with the female, and began to contemplate if he should reveal his true nature to her.
When she made to return home, she once more gave her companion a kiss on his striped cheek and promised to see him again tomorrow.
As each night before, he found himself more and more eager to see her again.
8888888888
"Prince?"
Serenity arrived a little late this night, having been watched extra hard by Venus and Mars. However, it wasn't too much later than she had been. Hoping that he had not abandoned her, she moved to sit beside the water, greeting the fish below with a smile.
However, as time passed, she became disheartened. "I hope he is alright," She told herself worriedly.
"I'd be more worried about yerself, wench."
A gasp had the moon princess rising to her feet and spinning around. Several men stood behind her, formed in a line to keep her at bay against the lake. They wore battered armor with bare arms and legs, and carried swords that had seen better days. However, they were very menacing, and Serenity felt true fear rise in her being.
"Well, ye must be a lady of importance," the leader cried out at her expensive clothing. "Reackin' we get a big ol' ransom fer ye pretty face."
The man's companions laughed at his words, and Serenity felt her body go cold. "You will take leave of my presence, if you know what is best for you." She told them as regally as she could.
"Why we'd do that?" One asked. "Ye a demon? Don't look like much."
"She ain't no demon. She be nuttin but a human woman. I say we turn 'er in." Another voiced.
Serenity took a step back, but any further and she would be in the water. They began to approach her, and the Lunarian did not misunderstand the looks on their faces at all. She was so full of terror that she couldn't focus her powers to teleport. Dare she jump into the pond and swim?
A green whip came from the trees, slicing the leader in half. Serenity screamed as blood sprayed in the air, coating the fallen bandit's comrades and making the princess regret eating her dinner. Before the other men could react, the whip sliced off the head of another bandit, the body crumbling to the ground and soaking the dirt with blood.
The bandits roared in anger, turning in the direction of the woods where the green whip had originated. Slowly a figure approached from the shadows.
The male was regal in his stride, calmly entering the clearing. Long silver hair flowed freely behind him, and he wore clothing of great expense. Spiked armor was tied with a blue and gold sash, and eyes of gold were narrowed at the remaining fools in the clearing.
"Ye'll pay fer that!" One of the men cried out, and together they charged the stranger.
"Die."
His voice was unlike anything she had ever heard before, and she looked upon her apparent savior with wide eyes in a trace. With a speed that she could not follow, the males who had dared to threaten her were dispatched, their corpses now littering the ground as the grass and dirt became soaked in their blood.
Serenity felt her stomach heave, and she quickly turned from the site as she fought away the bile.
Perhaps her mother had been correct all along about the ways of humans.
A warm hand was placed on the bare skin at her back, and her savior knelt beside her. "You are unharmed?" His tone was completely calm, and he did not seem at all concerned that he had just massacred a group of bandits as if he was blinking an eye. His voice was deep and regal, and it mesmerized her.
"Yes," she answered as she slowly looked up at her savior after taking a calming breath. "Thank you for…" Her words were forgotten as her lips parted in awe. Golden eyes met blue as she took in his features.
A maroon stripe on each of his eyelids.
Burgundy stripes on his cheeks.
A blue crescent moon on his brow.
"Prince?" She whispered.
If it had not been for his advanced hearing, he would have missed it. In reply, he gave the barest of nods. "I apologize for my tardiness; I was detained by matters at home."
"I do not understand," She told him, voice still soft as she felt herself relax in his presence.
"Come; I shall explain." His voice hypnotized.
Their gazes did not fall apart from each other as she nodded, and shakily stood on her two feet. Without hesitation, two clawed hands swept her into his arms and he took to the sky, a red cloud forming at his feet.
Once he was content in the distance that he had placed them from the site of dead carcass, he set the Moon Princess on her feet, though he found himself unable to release her. His clawed hands remained on her lower back, and her own lay placed on his chest as she continued to stare into his gold orbs. "What are you?" She asked.
"My name is Prince Sesshomaru, son of the dog demon general Lord Taisho of the Western Lands of Japan." He told her.
"The giant beast…" She half asked, not sure her mind could compute what had happened.
"My inner demon; my true form, if you will." He told her.
"Why did you never… why not appear to me as you are now?" She asked.
Silver hair fell against her bare arm as he tilted his head to the left. "The first night of the full moon holds a powerful call over us canine-related demons. On such nights, this one cannot control his baser instincts. This was the occurrence when we met."
"And the other nights?" Serenity inquired.
"This Sesshomaru deemed that form such safer to your comfort due to your past." He answered.
"Oh," she stated. "Thank you," she whispered, though fully sincere. "For saving me, for protecting me. They…they were going to," she began.
He cut her off. "Nothing shall harm you when I am near."
Serenity felt herself blushing. His voice was doing strange things to her, and added to the fact that he was incredibly attractive and she was currently in his embrace… "Um," she began. "I should apologize for kissing you. Such forwardness is not becoming; had I know about…"
Sesshomaru let out a small, "Hn." This caused her eyes to widen as she saw the faintest smile stretch his lips. "Do not apologize for what I had come to anticipate each time we parted."
Her face was glowing, but still their eyes remained locked. "Oh," She began.
Suddenly, her eyebrows scrunched in confusion. "Sesshomaru, what do you mean when you call yourself a dog demon? How do you have an inner beast? What is an inner beast?"
The silver-haired male let out a bark of laughter. "I shall explain everything to you, as promised. May this Sesshomaru escort you on another walk? This time, I shall tell you of my past."
Serenity gave him one of her blinding smiles. With a nod, she accepted his arm that he offered to her after forcing himself to drop them from her form. Wrapping her hands around his arm, she fell into step beside him and absorbed each word his voice spoke of his past and some of his culture.
"It seems there are more forms of life than just humans in this world." Serenity stated. "I had always believed demons to be tales the humans told to children to get them to behave."
"All tales have a stem of truth." He wisely spoke.
"Just how old are you?" She asked with a quick of a silvery gold eyebrow.
"I shall be nearing my third century soon." He told her.
"A few decades older than me; a prolonged life, unlike the humans. How? Are you also descended from a god?" She asked with sincere curiosity.
He shook his head. "Demons of higher power and class such as myself are able to survive longer. This one's sire is nearing millennia."
"That's almost as old as my mother!" Serenity told him.
"Tell me, Serenity." He asked her as he brought them to a stop. "How can one as pure as you stand to be in the presence of a monster like me, who so easily shed blood before your innocent eyes?"
Serenity looked up at him in surprise. "What makes you think you are a monster?"
He arched a silver eyebrow. "I am what I am."
She frowned at this. "I see no monster." She told him, and he could hear the earnestness in her tone. "I see a noble prince who came to my rescue, true to the name I had given." She smiled slightly up at him. "If you had not rescued me, who knows what they would have done. Maybe my mother was right, and I should not come to Earth."
He placed a clawed hand on her cheek. "Then we never would have met, and that would displease this Sesshomaru."
She placed a pale hand over his own, her blue eyes glittering with extra moisture. "I would never regret that." She told him. "I must admit; as much as I adore your beast, I am just as fond of you like this. I enjoy the sound of your voice."
He gave a small smirk as he leaned closer to her. "This Sesshomaru finds pleasure in having you so enraptured to hear it." He gave pause. "I have a request."
"Yes?" She asked as her own body slowly leaning towards him.
"This Sesshomaru wishes that tonight, he be the one to grant you a kiss."
The Moon Princess found her lungs no longer had the ability to work. "Granted." She whispered.
However, Serenity found herself floating on cloud nine as Sesshomaru leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss upon her lips. His other clawed hand moved to the back of her head when she let out a small moan, and he stepped forward to mold her against his form.
He pulled his head back after just a moment, resting his forehead on her own as he looked down at her flushed face. His inner demon howled in conquest, but the collected Sesshomaru let his lips leave a chaste kiss on her brow.
"The hour grows late," He told her.
"I should go," She agreed, though having no desire to do so.
"Tomorrow, meet me here." He ordered.
"I will." She answered, looking up at him. "Goodnight, Prince."
The tip of a fang was revealed in his smirk. "Goodnight." He told her as she disappeared in a swirl of silver light.
Sesshomaru remained as he was for a moment, his beast still preening even after her departure. However, a figure stepping from the trees nearby that left a bucket of water pouring down on him. "So, you really did find a woman."
"Honored Father." Sesshomaru's voice had hardened, so unlike what it had been minutes ago.
"Come my boy; surely you could not believe I wouldn't notice your absence each night this week?" Inu Taisho rumbled. "I am your father. I am allowed to show concern over my son and heir. What is she?"
"None of your concern." Sesshomaru growled, his beast not pleased with his father's intrusion.
A clawed hand was raised. "Easy, boy. I am allowed to inquire about the identity of my future daughter. She is not human or demon by her scent. I am curious."
"She is more." The younger demon answered.
"So territorial; I was right. You have laid a claim to her." The elder demon was almost smug. "You finally have something to protect." He tapped his chin. "I wish to meet her."
This time, Sesshomaru's eyes flashed red. "No."
The dog general felt his younger son's brush of demon energy against his own in warning. "Still too soon, eh?" Another pulse had the father lifting his eyebrow in curiosity. Sesshomaru's power was still growing each day, and he was beginning to wonder about the time his son would best him in battle. "Very well," Inu Taisho consented, "Though I do expect to meet her soon."
A growl had current Lord of the West smirking; however he turned and took his leave. "I wouldn't harm the girl, I am grateful to her. She opened your heart." His next words were almost a laugh. "I can't wait for your puppies to run around the palace!"
The dog general vanished before the green acid whip could touch him, but Sesshomaru could hear the laughing bark as his father let him be. Waiting until he was sure he was left alone once again, he looked up at the bright orb in the sky. Yes, he had claimed her. Serenity was a truly interesting creature indeed.
8888888888
Sesshomaru had his back pressed against a tree, forgoing his armor, with his left leg bent at the knee and the right flat along the grass. Serenity's right side was leaning against his chest, using his knee for support on her back as his right arm wrapped around her waist to hold her against him. His left arm was at his side, though his fingers were grooming her silvery hair. Her own were playing with his long locks, fascinated to its softness. "Venus would be jealous of how soft your hair is. It feels the same as your fur, you know." The Lunarian told him.
"Hn," he answered, his nose nuzzling the top of her head as he took in her scent.
"Sesshomaru?" She asked softly, and he noticed that she had become a little tense.
"Yes?" He answered, allowing his lips to kiss her hair.
She blushed at his attention, but it only further encouraged her to ask what had been plaguing her mind. "I am not sure about how the demon culture would…um… classify us… but I wanted to know… I was wondering… it's been three wonderful weeks, and… where I am from, we are… what are we?"
His hand lifted from her waist to her chin, tilting her head back so that he could look into the shining blue eyes that were accepted by her blushing cheeks. His thumb stroked her cheek, and he approved of how she so easily submitted and let her face lean into his hold. "This Sesshomaru had hoped it was obvious we were more than acquaintances." This tone had a slightly repartee tone to it, and she took note of it.
Her blue eyes sparked, and his beast stirred at the challenge. "Do not tease me, Sesshomaru! I am serious. According to Lunarian customs, we are court-" Her words died in her throat, her blush having returned three fold.
The dog demon let out a pleased rumble from his chest as he tilted his head down to press his brow against her own. "While this Sesshomaru has been courting you according to my traditions, I do have one step to complete to make it official."
"That would be?" The Lunarian asked softly, his breath on her lips causing flutters in her stomach.
"Princess Serenity, I would be most honored and please if you would allow me to court you."
His whispered words in that oh-so-seductive voice sent goose bumps down her arms and tingles along her spine. Her eyes lowered as she moved her nose along his own and gave a small smile. "Yes."
A pleased rumble vibrated from his chest to hers before he claimed her lips. The few kisses they had shared had been gentle and sweet. This kiss had her toes curling; it was more firm, more passionate… and she found herself melting. Serenity turned more to press her chest against his own as she wrapped her arms around his neck; a move that he appeared to approve of, if the increased tempo of his rumble was any inclination. One hand when into his hair, and she let the fine strands fist at the top of his neck, which caused his hands around her waist to tighten and press her firmly to his form.
Sesshomaru tore his lips away from her own and latched onto her neck, kissing and nipping at the skin that her gown so readily revealed to him. Her gasp has his inner demon roaring as his fangs grazed her skin, instantly becoming addicted to her taste. Her nails scraped the skin of his neck and scalp as he moved his mouth over her flesh where her neck met her shoulder. Setting his fangs, he bit with slight pressure, though not breaking her skin, and sucked.
The rush of spice in her scent almost undid him, and her moan had him rocking against her thigh on his lap. His right arm was wrapped around her waist to her back, pressing her lower body against his erection while his left hand was at the back of her head, tilting it to the side. He rocked again, his eyes bleeding red as she moaned in response, and his fangs impaled her.
Serenity gasped in pain, her body tensing. It only lasted for the bat of an eye, feeling his energy surround her as his tongue soothed the wound. She was gasping again, her form quivering as she rested against him. Sesshomaru removed her fangs, his eyes red from his inner beast as her blood swirled on his tongue while he licked the wound. He found it interesting that her blood was just as silver as it was red, and easily the most intoxicating thing he had ever known.
He gave several more licks to her neck, before nuzzling her jaw with his nose and letting out a pleased purr. She was trembling against him, and he pulled his energy back. "What… was that?" She asked, referring to the swell of his power. She was sensitive to such matters, since her people were magic users, and she had been extensively trained by her mother to use her energy for the Silver Crystal.
"I gave you my courting Mark, letting everyone know my claim. It will keep you safe, and let others know that you are mind." He told her, his words guttered by growls.
"Your energy… I never realized…" she spoke, trying to get her hormones under control to focus.
"How dark it is?" He barked, his red eyes landing on her blue ones.
She smiled softly. "You are never a monster to me, Prince." The smile remained as she could see his beast in his eyes. "It's so powerful…"
The red began to recede as he smirked. "Hn."
Serenity's smile stayed on her lips as her eyes drifted closed. "That was amazing…"
Her betrothed responded by nuzzling the top of her head, enjoying her form laying along his own as his arms wrapped around her waist once more. He expanded his senses to ensure they were still safe, and kissed her brow. "Mine."
She hummed her response as her breathing evened out. He would wake her soon, so she could return home and rest. For now, however, he was content to enjoy the moment.
8888888888
Serenity sat humming to herself at her vanity in her bedroom, her hair undone as she pulled some over her shoulder to fall over the silk of her robe. She had placed an illusion over her mark from Sesshomaru, which after the wound sealed, had given her a blue crescent moon that was just like the one on his forehead. She couldn't let anyone see it, not yet. Letting her brush slide down the incredible length of her hair, she continued to hum and smile. So lost in her daydream that she was unaware of her visitor.
Gloved arms crossed over her chest, the blonde let out a huff. "You're hiding something!"
The Moon Princess gave a cry as she leapt up, spinning around with wide eyes and dropping her brush. "Minako!" A pale hand was placed on her heavy chest as she fought to calm her heart. "Don't scare me like that!" She chastised.
Her cousin quirked an eyebrow. "I knocked several times and even called your name."
"You did?" The Lunarian blushed, bending down to collect the brush before once more returning to her seat. "I'm sorry, my mind was off wandering."
"Well, that's nothing new," Minako smiled. "Though you have been worse as of late. Rei even made a comment this morning about it, and you didn't even hear her."
"Oh no," Serenity paled.
"It's alright." The Venusian answered, moving to take the brush from her cousin and began to move it through the long hair. "Her face was rather comical though." Serenity smiled, but Sailor Venus' next words had her paling. "When did you fall in love?"
"What?" The Lunarian squeaked. "I'm not!"
Venus huffed. "You are." She said sternly. "I'm the goddess of love, remember?" Minako asked. "What made you think you could hide this from me?"
Serenity looked down at her lap. "I just… I don't think anyone would approve."
Venus' hand stilled. "Please tell me it's not Prince Diamond from Nemesis!"
"No!" Serenity cried, her head popping up to lock eyes with Mina's in the mirror.
"Then I am sure they are fine!" Minako smiled. "The Silver Millennium is full of gorgeous guys, all of them willing to get a chance at you. Is it a Lord from one of the moons of another planet? Have a crush on an ambassador from another galaxy? It's not Jupiter's older brother, is it?"
Serenity laughed. "No! Goddess, his flirting is all just for fun. I think he may have a thing for Mercury."
It was the Venusians' turn to laugh. "Talk about opposites attract! So tell me already, what planet is he from?"
Serenity held her breath as her eyes fell to her lap. "Earth."
The brush through her hair froze. "I'm sorry; I think I may have taken a blow to the head during training today."
Serenity let her gaze meet her cousin's in the mirror. "He's from earth."
"Earth." The warrior's tone was no longer the playful inquiry of best friends. "The same Earth that you are forbidden to journey to?" Her eyes were sparking with an unknown emotion. "You met him when Pluto went down to bring you home, didn't you? You swore to us you would never go back!"
Serenity turned and stood, waving her hands in front of her. "Mina, please," she begged. "You don't know him…"
"I don't need to, Sere." Mina spoke sternly. Her voice was the voice she used as the leader of the Inner Guardians. "It's for your protection – for everyone's protection – that we are banned from Earth. You know the history! How could you fall in love with a human?"
"He's not human!" She cried out. "You don't know anything!"
Sailor Venus had wide eyes, and took a step back. "Sere," she began.
"He's not human!" She continued, tears in her eyes but not longer shouting. "He's wonderful, Mina. He truly cares about me, and he even saved me." She looked at her cousin. "Yes, there is darkness on Earth and in humans; I've seen it. But even our races were tempted by darkness before, we just chose the light. Sesshomaru can be dark if needed, like when he killed those men to save me; but he truly is noble, and he cares for me." She pushed the sleeve of her robe away, revealing the courting mark.
Sailor Venus stood still, not blinking, and not breathing. After a moment, she spoke. "What kind of name is Seesh-oo-maru?"
Serenity stood still at those words, before erupting in laughter. Sailor Venus slowly approached her, placing a gloved fingertip near the mark to examine it. "It's… pretty." She said slowly. Turning her eyes to the hopeful look of her cousin, she spoke softly. "I am not promising anything…" her voice turned stern. "Tell me everything."
Serenity nodded, and spent the next few hours talking of her visits, finally happy to be able to share the news.
8888888888
Sesshomaru used his speed to move to the side, easily avoiding the golden whip that was directed at his form. Narrowed eyes turned to see a woman very scantily dressed, with a gloved hand on one hip and blonde hair swirling in the breeze. Her colors and image as described by his intended brought her name to his mind instantly. "Sailor Venus."
"So she's told you about me. Good." The warrior spoke confidently. "Then you can guess why I am here."
"You will not keep her from me." His words held a bite. "She is mine."
"You speak as if she is a prize to be won, demon." She spat back. He showed no external expression, which mildly impressed the soldier. He clearly was no stranger to fighting, based on his form and collection, and silently the Venusian added a point in his favor. "If you want to prove your worth and see my Princess again, you will have to get through me."
Bright blue eyes noticed the sharp claws on his left hand flex. "This Sesshomaru would gladly rip the heart from your chest before you could realize I was standing before you," he told her. "However, Serenity would never forgive me for such actions."
She smirked wickedly. "That is true." She tested. "It does not change anything. As the goddess of love, I don't believe you are worthy of her heart."
A growl met her ears, and had she been anything less than she was she would have run away in fright. "I will do whatever it takes to have her by my side."
"I've heard other men say the same." She stated unimpressed.
Sailor Venus leapt into the air just in time to avoid the acid whip that Serenity had mentioned when he saved her from the bandits. She flipped in the air, but had not counted on his speed. She found her back slammed against a tree, clawed hands at her throat as he growled dangerously. "None shall take what belongs to this Sesshomaru!"
She winced, her hands coming to try to pry his away from her throat. "She's not a possession, demon." She rasped.
"No, she is this Sesshomaru's other half. She is mine to protect!"
The hand was removed and the soldier fell to her knees, gasping for air. Slowly she stood, her eyes going to the male she had come to inspect. As if nothing had occurred, the demon stood several paces away from her, calm and collected aside from the red eyes.
He hadn't passed just yet.
Golden beams of energy shot towards his person from her hand, and Venus watched as he didn't bat an eye. His silver hair swirled around him as she felt his energy rise, and her own opened in surprise. Serenity had not been exaggerating; how did he manage to conceal such power?
Her attack was thwarted before it hit him, and his energy was once again unable to be felt. For several moments their gazes met, sizing the other.
"I am Sailor Venus, Goddess of Love and Beauty, and leader of the Inner Guardians to Princess Serenity of the Moon Kingdom." She stated. "I approve of your suit of my cousin."
"I do not need your approval."
Sailor Venus shrugged. "I know; I would never step in the way of love. It would go against what I am."
Her words held nothing new to him, but the confirmation from said being left him a little dazed. She took several steps towards him. "Let me make myself perfectly clear." Her tone was every bit the warrior and that was something he could honor. "She is far more precious that you could ever realize. She is the light of our world, and the kingdom. There is darkness in you, and I do not approve of it. However, if it is used for the right reasons, like protect her, then I will allow your relationship to grow and assist in your rendezvous if I can." Her body glowed gold. "But if anything should happen to her…"
He did not like being threatened, and gave a warning growl. "Nothing would dare harm her."
The glowing stopped, and she huffed. "You have no idea how wrong you are, demon. There is something on this planet that calls for her death; a sorceress that is turning humans against us and calling for her blood."
Golden eyes narrowed. "I take it she is not privy to such information."
Venus smirked. "Of course not. She would fret over the whole thing, and the sorceress is nothing but a jealous woman. She hates Serenity because a human prince, Endymion, had requested to marry her to seal an alliance." Sesshomaru growled. He would have to speak with his father about such a matter. "Relax, puppy," Venus rolled her eyes. "It won't happen. Serenity refused. Now I know why."
It was barely noticeable, but the male before her preened. "Well then. I've said my peace." Pulling out an unknown orange device from thin air, she pressed a button. "You can come now."
Silver light filled the clearing as Serenity appeared, and she instantly flew into Sesshomaru's waiting arms. The demon held her tightly against him, pressing his lips to hers in greeting. When his princess pulled away, she had one of her blinding smiles on her lips. Remaining in his hold, she turned to her cousin. "Told you."
Venus shrugged her shoulders. "I could already tell by the energy you gave off that you had met your other half, I just had to make sure I approved." She gave a saucy wink. "Quite a hunk, too! I'll let you be. Make sure you are back soon, the others are suspicious." The guard gave the demon a meaningful look, and vanished in a swirl of golden light.
Serenity turned her gaze back to her demon, her hands on his chest and she practically vibrated from giddiness. "She likes you."
"Hn," he told her, bending to nuzzle her mark with his nose. "I feel as if I should introduce you to this one's sire as revenge."
She let out a giggle. "Why not?"
Sesshomaru pull away, frowning slightly. "It was a jest."
Serenity laughed. "I'll have to meet him sometime."
He huffed. "Not tonight. I do not wish to share you anymore tonight."
The Lunarian blushed slightly. "How can I say no to that?"
8888888888
"I just know that she's hiding something! Every night for two months, she goes to bed just a little earlier and wakes up later! I bet she's sneaking around somewhere again!"
"Breathe." Sailor Jupiter teased.
"You know it, too!"
"Yes, Mars, we know." Jupiter answered calmly as she crossed her arms over her chest and leaned against a marble pillar. "But spitting fire isn't going to get anything out of her."
"She's being stupid! We don't know where she is going; just that she keeps disappearing on us at night!" Sailor Marks raged.
"Mars, calm down." Sailor Mercury spoke, typing away at her small computer. "We need to be rational about this. There must be a logical explanation as to why she is keeping a secret from us. We should respect her decision and ask her about it outright."
"Our genius has a point." Jupiter added. "Otherwise she will just pull away from us more."
"It's our job to protect that air head, how can we do it when she goes gallivanting around all willy-nilly?" Sailor Mars argued.
"You're such a hot head." Jupiter smirked.
Sailor Mercury sighed and snapped her device closed before she willed it away to her space pocket. "Than there is another choice of action." She offered.
"What?" Mars asked, tossing her ebony locks behind her with a flick of her wrist.
"We can follow her once I slip a tracking device on her."
Both Mars and Jupiter looked at her with wide eyes. "Amy, that's…" Mars began. "So unlike you to suggest."
Jupiter laughed. "I like it!"
Sailor Mercury blushed.
8888888888
Serenity had barely finished teleporting to Earth when familiar arms encircled her, crushing her to her betrothed's form. "Sesshomaru!" She laughed.
"Hn," was his traditional reply as he nuzzled her neck.
"I don't know who is more cuddly, you or your inner beast." She teased him.
"Care to find out?" He dared, a red cloud already forming under their feet. Serenity gave a shriek as she was suddenly jostled into his arms, though she held a smile on her face.
"Get your hands off of her!" Came a familiar voice just before a torrent of fire and lightening went roaring towards them.
Sesshomaru easily avoided the attack, holding Serenity firmly against him hold as he leapt into the air and landed a distance away. Narrowed gold eyes and worried blue eyes landed on the trio of soldiers standing several yards away.
"Give our princess back to us!" Jupiter warned, her hands still sparking with power.
"No!" Serenity cried, wiggling in her demon's hold. "Stop!"
Sesshomaru growled, clearly not wishing to set her down, but she would not desist. Letting her down to her feet, he kept a hold of her with one arm around her waist. Sailor Mars was already holding a flaming bow in her hand, and Serenity moved to stand in front of him. "I command you to stop!"
"He was trying to kidnap you," Sailor Mercury stated, carefully observing the situation. Though as she spoke, she noticed that their interactions stated otherwise.
"He was not!" Serenity corrected. "What are you doing here?"
"What are you doing here?" Sailor Mars retorted. "With that demon?"
"That's my fiancé!" The Moon Princess growled out. Sesshomaru's gaze darted to her from the corner of his eyes, inwardly aroused at her dog-like response.
Lightening and fire was instantly doused. "Come again?"Sailor Jupiter asked.
Serenity brought her hands up to cover her face. "This is not good…"
8888888888
"She's going to see that demon again, isn't she?" Sailor Mars commented from the shadows as she watched her charge slip into her room.
"Mars," Sailor Venus' warning tone came from beside her.
"She can be such an airhead," The ebony haired woman huffed. "She is putting herself in danger, and all we can do is watch?"
Sailor Venus placed a gloved hand on her friend's shoulder. "It's true. Given time, once things with Earth get resolved, she can tell the Queen and create a wonderful union that will bring prosperity to our kingdom. Sailor Pluto confirmed it."
"That doesn't mean I have to like it." Mars snapped.
Sailor Venus' eyes softened. "All we can do is as we've always done: watch over her, guide her, and protect her."
Mars spun on her heel and walked away.
8888888888
"Father." Sesshomaru greeted as he entered his father's study.
"My boy, I would sit if I were you." He told his son, his expression grim.
"You have found what I seek?" The younger demon asked, remaining on his feet.
His father nodded. "I truly fear for your intended."
8888888888
"I don't understand," Serenity whispered. "I knew that Mother's Council was meeting frequently, I just supposed it was because they were getting upset I have declined all suitors…"
Sesshomaru growled. "Nothing will harm you." He told her, tightening his hold around her form. The pair lay side by side by side in a small, secluded field in the Western Lands, gazing up at the nearly full moon.
Serenity leaned up on her elbow, looking down into her demons eyes. "Maybe I should send a letter explaining to Beryl that I am already spoken for. I am sure she would stop, once she realizes I love another."
Though her declaration greatly soothed his beast, he gave a shake of his head. "It is more complicated than that. According to father, she is allowing demonic energies to take over. A letter will not put this to rest. She is corrupted."
A pale hand cupped his cheek, a thumb stroking one of the two magenta marks. "I will be safe." She told him. "I hope this is resolved quickly. With matters on Earth the way they stand now, if I mentioned to mother that I have chosen you… she would never let me leave the palace, let alone the Moon."
"She holds such bias that she would deny her daughter's heart?" Sesshomaru asked.
Blue eyes saddened. "It's not her fault. All of the kingdoms in the Silver Millennium would forbid a future king who is not from a planet in our alliance." She gave his lips a gentle kiss, making sure to conceal the bad feeling that rattled her bones. "I choose you, Sesshomaru."
Clawed hands made their way to the back of her head, pulling her to his hungry lips. "Mine," he claimed as so often before.
8888888888
It had been two months since they had officially become Mates. Sailor Venus had even covered for Serenity to be with her Mate when he went into heat; stating they would be taking a trip to her home for a visit, which Queen Selenity agreed to. Her daughter had become more and more melancholy as of late, often walking the halls of the palace in a daze and staring longingly at Earth.
To the Queen's delight, five days later upon her daughter's return, there was the familiar spark back in her daughter's eyes.
She had no notion what it really was.
The princess was finding it more and more difficult to leave her Mate's arms and come home. She couldn't stand being away from Sesshomaru, and her demon was more and more reluctant to let her go. Though she had finally met her father-in-law before returning home... to Sesshomaru's great displeasure. Serenity was fond of the almost goofy Inu Taisho, who had lovingly teased his son about grand puppies.
A week after Sesshomaru's heat had ended, Serenity found herself in her bath at home, trying to calm herself. However, she couldn't fight the feeling of foreboding. It had been getting stronger, and the matter of Beryl and the humans of Earth were only getting worse.
Tomorrow was her birthday celebration. She shook it off as the depression from having to go a night without seeing her love. She would go to see him now, and dread leaving as always.
Their meeting went as it always did, but as the sky began to brighten, Serenity a tear escape her eye.
"What ails you, Mate?" Sesshomaru inquired as he used a clawed finger to wipe away her tear.
"I have a horrible feeling that something is going to happen." She admitted, burying her face in his neck as she clutched to his body.
He held her tight, letting a comforting rumble through his chest. "This Sesshomaru will always protect you, as I always have."
"But you can't get to the Moon," she told him. "I am worried if I go home, that I will never be able to get back to you."
Sesshomaru rolled her to her back, leaning over her. He used a clawed hand to cup her face, his thumb catching her tears. "You belong to this Sesshomaru, as I belong to you. We are Mates, and as such no matter what, we will find a way back to each other. Nothing will keep me from you."
She let out a whimper. "You promise?"
"Hn," He told her. "This Sesshomaru swears."
They sealed it with a kiss, letting their foreheads press together. "Should anything happen," he told her, "Come to me. Leave, and come to me."
"Sessho," she began to protest.
He let his nose go to her neck. "Mate," his voice was soft, but pleading. That was what had her wrap her arms around his shoulders and hold him to her.
"I will try."
He moved to take her lips with his one more time before she left, and for the first time since they Mated they had slow, soul-touching love.
8888888888
"We're under attack!"
"Soldiers, to the armory!"
Serenity raised a pale hand to her mouth. "No," She protested in disbelief. "Mother!" She cried, looking around the ball room for the Queen.
"Princess!" Luna's voice came from her feet. "You must get to the Prayer Room!"
"Where is mother?" She asked as an explosion shook the palace. The crystal chandeliers rattled above her and the guests as everyone ran for an exit.
"She went with the Scouts to fight." Luna told her. "You must get to the Prayer Room!"
Serenity let a tear escape. Picking up the feline figure, she hugged her tight. "Luna, you have to get to safety." She said. Quickly kissing the feline on the head, she set Luna down and glowed silver. She would keep her promise to her Mate. Focusing her thoughts on him, she let her magic flow.
However, she did not get far. When she appeared, she was outside the palace, not on Earth. "I don't understand," she said to herself, before falling to her knees as an explosion shook her home.
"Well if it isn't the pitiful Princess." Came a hissing tone.
Serenity turned to find a woman with long red hair held up by a black tiara. "Who are you?" She asked.
"I am Queen Beryl. I see you encountered my barrier; I am going to make sure that you do not leave this retched rock. The only thing you can look forward to is oblivion!"
Serenity did her best to teleport away again, but it must have been true; Beryl has somehow prevented her people from planetary teleporting. She barely leapt out of the way of Beryl's sword, feeling the air brush along her skin as the sorceress passed.
"Why are you doing this?" She cried.
The woman's features turned very snake-like, and the Moon Princess wondered if she was a demo. "You're trying to take him from me!" She hissed. "Endymion wants to marry you; you turned him away from me!"
Serenity actually stomped her foot in a very undignified manner. "I rejected him!" She cried out. "I already took a Mate – a dog demon from Earth!" With a wave of her hand, she released the illusion that covered her Mating Mark on her collarbone.
This caused the woman to pause, for only for a moment. "You lie." She hissed.
"If you would get rid of your barrier, you'll see I'm trying to get to him!" Serenity challenged back.
Beryl hissed. "I will not be fooled by a slip of a girl." Raising purple claws, she bared fangs at the princess. "Prepare to die!"
8888888888
Sesshomaru sat in his father's study, going over the reports of their scouts about the activity of the dragon demons. Suddenly, their study door was flung open, and a fox demon stood panting.
"My Lord! Prince Sesshomaru!" The demon cried. "You must come see!"
The two dog demons exchanged glances before rising, calmly exiting their palace. They did not fail to notice that every subject was outside, glancing worriedly and pointing up at the sky. Sesshomaru followed their gazes, and felt his blood run cold.
The moon was under attack.
A massive black cloud was covering a spot on the full moon, and even at this distance Sesshomaru could make out the explosions and purple lightening.
His heart ceased it's beating, and Inu Taisho cast worried eyes to his son. "Sess…" he began.
Instantly, canine features took over Sesshomaru's normally human-like appearance. His demonic energy expanded so suddenly that the demons of the castle were literally thrown from their feet. With a howl of such rage and ache never heard before, an orb of light surrounded his form, and leapt to the sky.
The Dog General slowly rose, fearing for his son and daughter-in-law. He hoped that his son's Mate would survive; for if not, he dreaded what would happen to his son.
88888888888
Serenity braced herself on her palms, crying out as the already cut skin was cut again. "Stop, Beryl! Your jealously is blinding you!" She pleaded once more.
"Ah," Beryl hissed. "Begging for your life, I see? It is such sweet music to my ears…" She continued. "I'm going to enjoy ripping your heart out of your chest. For a few moments, you will know my pain."
Serenity could only think of Sesshomaru as the woman approached and she closed her eyes, begging for his forgiveness at her broken promise to return to him.
Blood splattered her gown.
"No!" The horrified shriek echoed all around them.
Opening her blue eyes, Serenity found a tragic sight. Endymion stood before her, Beryl's sword being pulled from his stomach. He had leaped in front of her to save her life.
"Prince Endymion!" Serenity cried out, moving to catch his falling form.
"Princess," he smiled softly. Ebony locks fell to cover his forehead. "Please, forgive her. She is only blinded by her love for me…"
"Endymion…" Beryl's heartbroken tone whispered. "What did you do?"
His blue eyes turned to the red headed woman, who once again resembled a human woman of great beauty. "I couldn't let you become a monster… that's not the woman who I love…"
Beryl sobbed. "Endymion!"
"Please hold on," Serenity begged the prince. "My mother can heal you with the Crystal…"
He shook his head, feeling his body go cold. "It's too late… please… I'm glad you are safe… go to your Mate…"
His blue eyes started to close, but they turned to Beryl, who was sobbing on her knees just within reach. He lifted a hang that shook, holding out to her a red rose. "My love…"
Serenity had tears trailing down her cheeks as she felt the prince's life force drain away. "No," She whispered.
Beryl gave a shrill scream. "Endymion!" With a roar, her form once more resembled a hybrid of human and snake. "He's dead because of you!"
The Lunarian gasped over the prone form of the dead prince. "No!" She cried out. "I did not want him to do that… you heard him! He wanted to save you!"
"He gave his life for you… I will enjoy taking yours."
Serenity's lungs could no longer take in oxygen as a sword was plunged through her chest. Her eyes were wide as it pulled out of her form, blood slipping down the white silk of her gown. Beryl let out an evil cackle, its volume growing as Serenity's form fell sideways along Endymion.
Tears silently slipped from her eyes. Images of her Mate overtook her vision as her hearing left her. Her last word was more whispered than spoken, but it held so much emotion that it silenced Beryl's gloating laugh.
"Sesshomaru."
8888888888
He would find a way. He would get to his Mate. He would protect her, as he always had and always would. He would get to the Moon.
Just as the air around him turned cold, he froze in his path. The orb vanished to leave him supported by his cloud. His red eyes were locked on the Moon above, watching as the black cloud was dispersed from the Moon. A full Lunar Eclipse followed, and then…
Nothing.
It was then he knew. He knew that she was gone, that his Mate would never again be in his arms.
He should have never let her leave. He should have forced her to stay with him, stay where it was safe.
His heart stopped beating, never to feel warmth or love again. Slowly, he lowered himself back to the Earth in a daze.
This was when the dog demon Sesshomaru, without his heart, became the stone cold Aristocratic Assassin that would instill fear in any who heard his name.
8888888888
END CHAPTER ONE!
Really, 31 pages? Holy smokes… that's the longest first chapter that I've ever written! So… if I keep that up… this will be just two or so more chapters…
I hope you all enjoyed the latest craze from my muse. As always, thank you for your support!
-Sandreline
