MoonlightDestiny1

Author's Notes : Hello minna-san! This is an AR Endymion & Serenity fic. The senshi are slightly older than Serenity, who is only eight. Before you start reading : Luna does *not* talk to Serenity, she does to the Queen, but the Princess is unaware of this. Also, the people of the moon are able to hide their crescent moon spot. Any questions, comments, suggestions, please let me know! Thanks! - JediSerenity (JediSerenity@aol.com )
Check out my Sailor Moon Fan Fiction Site - Moonlit Destiny .
Translations :
Wakarimasu-ka? - Do you understand? Hai - Yes Gomen - Sorry
Hai, wakarimsu. - Yes, I understand. Ohairi kudasai - Come in.
Domo arigato - Thank You. Shirimasen - I don't know.
Naze des-ka - Why? Dekimasen- You can't. Ikimas - Go
Nani - What? Tabun - Perhaps Iie - No O-cha - tea


~**Moonlight Destiny**~
Chapter One - The Air Of Freedom Breaks Through

"It makes me want to cry, this moonlight. "

A young Princess ran through the corridors of the large palace, her light joyful laughing echoing in the empty halls. Her long golden hair trailing behind, and her white silk dress fluttering as she ran. The Princess finally made it to her destination; the rose gardens, and sat down in the grass, inhaling the sweet fragrance that surrounded her. She lay back, the soft green field tickling her skin. The girl stared up at the blue orb which hung in the sky like a magical crystal ball. She longed to visit there, as she had learnt about it's lush green hills, the peaceful waters, the soft sand which lay at the shores, tall, white peaked mountains, and the rich forests. She often dreamt about growing up, and having a handsome, charming Prince carry her off to the planet.
Princess Serenity giggled to herself, and closed her eyes as images of a happy future flooded her mind. She soon felt wet droplets on her skin, and when she opened her eyes saw the black sky above her. The young girl quickly stood up, noticing the dirt, and green stains on her once white dress. Then the rain started to fall, large heavy drops plummeting towards the surface of the moon.

Where is she!? A girl about twelve yelled, her temper wearing thin.
Calm down Rei-chan. She's probably just getting cleaned up! The blonde haired the Princess of Venus replied.
She is so irresponsible. Rei frowned, and slumped into the chair. Three other girls rolled their eyes, very accustomed to the temper of the Princess of Mars .

Princess Serenity finally reached the palace, her cheeks tainted red from running, and her dress soaked through. She entered the foyer, and four pairs of eyes turned to greet her. She smiled sheepishly as they looked over her appearance. Rei stood up, her black hair falling down the length of her back.
Rei-chan, sit down. Ami ordered tucking a stray strand of her blue hair behind her ear. A brunette grabbed Rei's arm, pulling her back into the chair.
Serenity whispered looking down at her fingers which fidgeted in front of her.
Rei screamed, her anger rising by the minute. Look at you! You're already half an hour late! You were probably laying in the grass again day dreaming, because that's all you ever do! You ruined another dress! You're a complete mess! And all you have to say is your sorry!? I've had enough of you being so damn irresponsible! Rei scolded, as tears welled up in Serenity's eyes.
Rei-chan! It's not her fault it started to rain. Makoto defended her Princess, not loosening her grip on her friend.
She shouldn't have been in the gardens in the first place! Rei yelled back, still glaring at the blonde girl who stood in the doorway.
I think Rei-chan's right. Serenity, you should try to be more responsible. Minako chimed in, smiling sympathetically.
Don't you want to be a good Queen, like you mother? Ami asked, pushing her glasses up.
At this rate you'll never be fit to be a Queen! It's amazing you're still considered a Princess! The raven haired Princess spat. Crystal tears fell from Serenity's blue eyes, and she took off down the hall towards her room.
Rei-chan, that was way too harsh. Makoto shook her head.
I don't know Mako-chan. I think it's what she may have needed to hear. Minako nodded in agreement to Ami's statement. The Princess of Jupiter shook her head, and took off down the hall.

Serenity finally reached her door feeling weak, exhausted, and embarrassed. She slowly turned the knob letting herself in, and fell onto her bed, as the sobs took control of her body. Maybe Rei-chan's right', her mind shrieked, you never act like royalty, you're too irresponsible, you just don't fit in here'. The small Princess started to shiver, as the dampness of her dress seeped through to her skin.
The door slowly opened, and Queen Serenity peered through the crack. Her daughter's long blonde hair was damp, and dirty. Her once ivory dress stained with mud, grass and rain. The girl's small body shook from the cold, and from weeping. The Queen closed the door again, and knocked lightly, allowing her daughter time to regain herself.
Ohairi kudasai. Her voice was quiet, as she chocked back more tears.
The Queen's soothing voice called out to her. The Princess's cries stopped, and she quickly wiped her eyes before sitting up.
Hai mother? She asked, still sniffling.
What happened to you? Her mother's voice was calm, yet she could hear anger on the edge.
Serenity bowed her head in shame, and the tears once again came to her eyes.
You can't keep doing this Serenity. You have to grow up now, you're starting classes soon. I know you're only eight my dear, but being a Princess, you do not have a choice. No more running wild in the fields, rolling in the grass, playing in the mud. Wakarimasu-ka? The Queen was now sitting on the edge of the bed with her daughter, who was still trembling from the cold. She asked again. Serenity lifted her head, her ocean blue eyes filled with tears.
Hai, wakarimsu. The young Princess nodded slowly.
Good. Now get out of those filthy wet clothes, wash up, and come for dinner. The Queen laid a small kiss on her child's forehead, and exited the room, her long silver-white gown trailing behind her.
Serenity once again fell onto her bed, as silent tears poured down her cheeks. She felt something soft rub against her arm, and looked up to see her cat Luna laying down beside her. Serenity smiled through her tears, and stroked Luna with her icy hand.
Oh Luna. I wish you could talk. She frowned again, Luna only purring in response. After a few moments, the Princess got off the bed, = went to have a shower, and change out of her wet clothes.
Feeling better, Serenity emerged from the washroom, and put on a more comfortable, less formal, pink dress. Luna was fast asleep at the foot of her bed, and she smiled, lightly running a finger over the cat's soft fur. As she was finishing the final touches to her odango's', there was a knock at her door.
Ohairi kudasai. She called, not drifting her gaze off the reflection in the mirror.
Feeling better? Makoto asked, approaching her Princess.
Hai, domo arigato. The brown haired, brown eyed girl pulled two pink roses from behind her back.
I thought maybe these would make you feel better. She smiled sweetly, then attacked them to Serenity's odango's.
She replied, turning around and hugging her friend. You're always so good to me.
Come on, we better hurry or we'll be late for dinner. Makoto grabbed Serenity's hand and the two girl's took off down the hall.

Once dinner was finished, the Princess of the Moon and the blue haired Princess from Mercury sat by a warm fire reading. Even at the age of twelve, Ami was brilliant, some even went as far to call her a genius. She had soft blue eyes, and a quiet voice. She rarely lost her temper, and was extremely level-headed.
The Queen had asked her to start teaching her daughter fundamental skills when she reached five. Every night since then was spent by a warm fireplace reading, or writing. Most night's the younger Princess tried to learn all her friend was trying to teach her, but often found her mind wandering. Her eyes always seemed to find that blue shining planet which she longed to see.
Ami sighed in frustration, this was not a good night to be studying, due the events of that day. Are you listening to me!?
Hai, Ami-chan. Gomen. I.. it's just.. what's it like on Earth? She questioned, loving the way the name of the planet rolled off her tongue.
Shirimasen. Naze des-ka?Ami put the book down, and turned her attention to the young girl.
I wish I could go there It looks so beautiful. Serenity said wistfully, a dreamy look in her eyes.
Dekimasen. You know the Earth and Moon are not at good terms. Ami pointed out, Serenity nodded sadly.
I know. She sighed.
Come now, on with your studies. Ami once again pushed the glasses up the bridge of her nose.

The sun poked it's way through the curtains of Serenity's room, pouring his ray's onto her soft golden hair. She stirred in her sleep as the light grazed her smooth skin. The bird's began to sing their sweet melodies outside, and the Princess awoke.
The young girl stood up, and walked over to her large windows, opening them. The warm breeze tickled her skin, and she giggled lightly. Not wanting to waste any of this perfect day, she threw on a pair of riding pants, boots, and a white shirt. Then took off, climbing over the railing of her balcony, onto the walkway below.
Serenity reached the stables and found she was alone. She sighed contentedly, and took out her horse, saddled her, and mounted, ready to take off. Just as she was about to leave, the stable maid came running in her direction.
Princess! Get down from there at once! She yelled, as the Queen had told her that Serenity was to start with more serious studying, and was not allowed to go riding beforehand.
I won't be long, I promise! If mother asks, just tell her you didn't see me! Ja ne! With that the girl turned her horse, and the two took off towards the river.
Before she knew it, the sun was high above her. Serenity breathed in the warm air, and slowed her ivory horse to a halt. She dismounted close to the river, taking off her boots, and sitting down in the cool grass.
Isn't it beautiful Hime? Serenity called to her horse, who was tied to a nearby tree, feasting on the plants which lay at her feet. The Princess was once again referring to Earth. Serenity stood up, and began to spin around. Her long blonde mane swirling around her, her giggling filling the air. She fell back onto the ground, staring up at Earth once again, as the colours whirred around her.
Oh no! I'm already 45 minutes late!' Serenity's mind screamed, when she finally realized the time. She leapt back on her horse, and took off towards the palace, leaving Hime to feed down below her balcony. Then quickly changed into a more suitable attire, and walked down the hallway to the library.

This is unbelievable. Rei paced back and forth, trying to calm the fire which was boiling inside of her.
I think we should go search for her. Minako suggested, concern showing on her face, and in her voice.
Forget it. We've been waiting for more than an hour! We have to train. We don't have time for her games. Rei stated, as her jaw became tight to keep her from exploding in anger.
Show a little compassion would you? It's tough for her. Makoto said sympathetically.
Tough for her!? What about us? We're the ones taken from our families so that we can learn to protect a careless, irresponsible, whiny, bratty Princess, who at this rate is never going to be Queen! It's really too bad she doesn't have a sister you know, because the Silver Millennium is doomed if she's our future. That girl is sure a failure! The fire was let loose. Three girls stood there jaws dropped open. Mars's Princess was known for her temper, yet she was never this cruel. By now they were all fed up with Serenity's constant tardiness, and careless, though no one had really said anything about it.
Serenity gasped as she heard the savage words fly from Rei's mouth. She choked back more tears, then turned to go back to her chambers. If that's what they think, maybe it's best if I just leave'. She slammed the door, and rushed over to Luna, who lay curled up in a patch of warm sunlight.
You're my only friend Luna. She picked up the black cat, and held her close, petting her now warm back. Let's go. No one wants me here. They all think I'm a failure. She said sadly, then changed into clothes she typically wore for going into town.
The Princess sat in front of her mirror, closed her eyes, concentrating hard. When they reopened, the crescent mark on her forehead had disappeared. She gathered a bag, and packed a few articles of clothes.
She took the two roses Makoto had given her the night before, and laid one on her bed, along with a small note addressed to her friend. The other she put back into her hair.
Come with me Luna. She more asked than stated. The small cat purred, as if agreeing, and leapt into her arms. Serenity took one last look around her room, leaving everything in place. Then began to meditate, her power increasing, and the crescent moon appearing once again on her forehead. Images of Earth flashed through her mind, the air around her grew thick, and everything became dark. Suddenly a bright silver light flashed around her, into the sky.
Serenity awoke to find herself surrounded by tall, green trees. Her entire body felt weak, and her eyes were slowly adjusting to the environment around her. Once she realized where she was, her eyes went wide with disbelief, and excitement. She could feel the crescent moon still warm from the energy she had exerted. Once again she concentrated, hiding it from everyone's eyes.
I did it. She whispered. A small creature moved in her arms. Luna! You're okay? A pair of large cinnamon eyes met hers, and she smiled in delight. We made it! I actually teleported us here! All by myself! Oh Luna! She said excitedly, hugging her friend tightly to her chest.
Serenity stood up, now feeling stronger, gathered her bag, and began to walk. Her eyes darted all over the place, taking in everything around her. Standing still for a moment, she inhaled the sweet air.
I never thought it could be so beautiful. She mused, as she carelessly roamed through the rich forest.

Four girl's stood in a ring, each dressed in a fuku which matched the colour of their home planet : red for Mars, the ruler of fire, blue for Mercury, who held the power over water, Venus was orange, planet of love and beauty, and lastly Jupiter, ruler of thunder, was green.
Artemis, a white cat who sat on a nearby fence called out.
The four exclaimed, at the same time.
He shouted, and the four prepared to fight.
Each summoned the power of their planet, preparing the duel. This of course, was just a training exercise, in which no one ever was badly injured.
Shine Snow Illusion! A powerful blast of water shot out from Mercury's hands, instantly freezing into snow, turning into a deadly dagger.
Venus Love Me Chain! A deadly chain of linked hearts encircled Mercury's attack, breaking the weapon into tiny pieces.
Mars Flame Sniper! Sailor Mars released a fiery arrow from her bow, as it flew towards Sailor Jupiter.
Sparkling Wide Pressure! Thunder crashed with fire, and Mars's arrow was stopped. The girl's continued in their exercises, until Artemis thought they had enough.
Burning Mandala! Mars called, not hearing the cat's order to stop. Fire encircled the three other scouts, who at first did not realize what had happened.
Mercury Aqua Rhapsody! The fire was soon extinguished, and Rei looked sheepishly at her friends.
She smiled innocently, while the three others frowned.
Next time could you not try to flame us to death! Pyro! Makoto half joked, as Rei rolled her eyes.
Come on, we better go find Serenity. Ami instructed, Makoto and Minako agreeing, while Rei sighed, obviously annoyed.

After an hour of searching, Ami, Rei and Minako had gathered in the foyer, awaiting Makoto's return, hoping she had found their Princess. Minako had checked the stables, gardens, and fields, Rei the west wing, which was filled with prayer rooms, meditation areas, and the kitchen. Ami looked through the east wing, which were the libraries, and other various studious rooms, while Makoto checked her chambers, and other favourite hideouts.
The soft clicking of Makoto's boots could be heard through the empty hallways. The girls looked in her direction, and saw her head hung low, clutching a pink rose in one hand, and a white letter in the other.
Did you find her? Minako called out, as Makoto came closer. The tall brunette shook her head, a small tear falling down her face.
She's gone. She whispered, holding back tears.
Ami asked in disbelief.
She's gone. She left me a letter, and a rose. Makoto fell to the ground, allowing the rose and note to fall to the floor. She held her head in her hands, and began to cry. Minako and Ami rushed to her side, and tried comforting her.
She'll be back soon. Minako said, not only try to reassure Makoto, but herself as well. Tiny droplets escaped from her eyes.
I'll go get the Queen. Ami slowly stood, feeling shaky, and took off to fetch Serenity's mother.
She's probably just lost somewhere. You know how she is. Rei stated, pushing her hair back.
Shut up. Makoto hissed, her green eyes sending daggers into Rei's violet. This is all your fault. She spat, unable to control her emotions, and her voice. If you hadn't been so god damn hard on her, she wouldn't have left. She's didn't just get lost again Rei-san. She left. She left because of you. Because she thinks she's let everyone down! You made her feel like a failure! By now Makoto was sobbing, Minako had her arm wrapped around her friend's back for support, as tears were streaming down her face.
She was a failure. Rei replied coldly.
What makes you so high and mighty? You're such a bitch. Minako's words caused both Makoto's, and Rei's eyes go wide in surprise.
Give me a break Minako-san. You're just as guilty as I am. Rei tried pushing her guilty conscience into the back of her mind.
Get out! Makoto screamed. Just get out! Rei scowled.
I don't need this, nor do I deserve it. With that the Princess of Mars stood from her chair, and left the room, Minako restraining Makoto from following.
I can't believe it. Minako whispered, slumping into the seat Rei had previously occupied. What did she say to you, in the note? She asked curiously. Read it? She pushed on. Makoto unfolded the letter, and began to read.

Dear Mako-chan,
Domo arigato, for everything. Arigato for standing up for me, even when I was not there. For being the only person I could ever talk to. Please do not worry, I'll be safe, and maybe someday we'll meet again. Send my love to my Mother, and tell her none of this is her fault. As for the other girl's, thank Ami-chan, for teaching me, and having patience. Tell Minako-chan I'll miss having a twin. There is nothing to tell Rei-san. I over heard what she said. I hope to see you someday. If I ever get a chance, I'll write. Keep this rose safe for me. Arigato.
Serenity.

By now both Makoto and Minako were in tears, neither realized the Queen and Ami standing in the doorway. Ami was holding the Queen's hand, silent tears falling down both their cheeks.
Where did she go? Her mother asked softly.
She never said. Minako replied, helping Makoto off the ground.
She could be anywhere by now. Makoto's heart was full of pain, and she could not even imagine the terrible feeling the Queen must have been going through.
Should we send people out to look for her? Ami suggested.
The Queen shook her head, while the other three looked up in surprise. If we bring her back, she'll only run away again. Give her time. Luna will keep her safe, she's pledged her life to protecting her. Queen Serenity stated wisely. The girls nodded, understanding the Queen's decision.


* * *

It had been ten years since the Princess had fled from the palace on the moon. Her mother tried pushing the horrible event from her mind, and at times things were almost back to normal. However since then, the palace had not been filled with her light, airy laughing. The kitchen was not raided in the middle of the night, and the girls never found themselves waiting around. Minako, Ami, and Makoto still resented every word Rei had spoken, and had kept a distance from her. Rei herself had never felt so guilty, but was determined not to show her true emotions, as she felt it was a sign of weakness.
No one mentioned the Queen's lost daughter, many even forgot. Some were pleased at her disappearance, as she was known to be wild and wreck less. Those who knew her would never forgot the way her eyes would light up at the mention of such simple things. How she chased the butterflies in the springtime, or how her smile could brighten an entire room.
One thing no one knew of, was that Serenity had been writing to Makoto since she found a place to stay. Once, or twice a month a letter would appear on Makoto's bedside, along with one pink rose. She spoke fondly of her life on Earth, and asked Makoto not to speak of her letters to anyone. Makoto wrote her back a few times, informing her everyone here was safe, and doing well.
Luna often reported back to the Queen, telling her how Serenity was doing, and what her life was like. Queen Serenity wished her daughter would return to her, yet knew she would when the time was right.

Meanwhile on Earth, after a week of wandering through the forests, a kind couple offered Serenity refuge in their home. The couple lived in a cottage in the far reaches of the forests, with no means of communication to the outside world, therefore knew nothing of the disappearance of a Princess.
She had grown to love her family', as they treated her like their own. Myaumi and Takashi had always wanted children, and upon seeing her deserted at such a young age, took it as a sign from the Gods. They lived a simple life, trying to make their way in the world. They owned a farm and grew crops which they harvested in the autumn.
Serenity had quickly adapted to the customs of Earth, as they were not very different from her own. From the moment she arrived on Earth, she called herself Usagi, and had never again worn the tradition odango's' she once did. But every now and then she found herself wanting to return to the Moon, which at night looked like a glowing pearl hanging against a velvet backdrop. As much as she enjoyed her life here, it lacked something. She often wondered what it would be like if she were still the Princess Of The Silver Millennium, living with her mother in the palace. She still dreamt of a Prince, sweeping her off her feet, but now instead of taking her to Earth, he would return her to the Moon.
When she was twelve, she met a young boy of the same age; Seiya. His father worked in the town, and often came to help Myaumi and Takashi with their crops. The two instantly became close friends, and as they grew older, everyone thought they would eventually marry.
One day, while Myaumi and Takashi were out in town, Serenity sat down to write a letter. It had been ten years since she had left, and she wondered if anyone besides Makoto still remembered her. She always carried one pink, dried rose, which she believed to be a sign of pure friendship.
Serenity sat down to write another letter, spilling all her emotions onto the paper. The girl was pulled from her thoughts as she heard a loud knocking at the door. Reluctantly she opened the door to reveal Seiya, standing at the doorway, on arm resting on the frame of the door.
Seiya? What are you doing here? He grinned mischievously.
Nani? Is it so strange for me to stop by? He asked raising an eyebrow.
Iie, it's not that. She laughed, It's just you usually don't stop by so early in the day. She invited him in, and the two sat in the living room of the cottage. Do you want anything? A drink? Something to eat? Serenity stood up, straightening out her dress.
O-cha tabun? The blonde nodded, and took off towards the kitchen, leaving Seiya to himself. He got up, and began walking around the room, stopping to look at the pictures in frames. He smiled, remembering when he first met the girl; how she was always so full of life and happiness. He knew from the moment he laid eyes on her that he wanted to be with her forever, as he had fallen for her at first glance.
Serenity returned with tea and biscuits laid on a tray, setting them down on a table. Seiya's attention had fallen on a music box, which he opened, a light airy melody floating into the air. He walked over to Serenity, and bowed, taking a hold of her hand.
May I have this dance? The blonde rolled her eyes and giggled.
Hai, M'lord. Seiya chuckled as he brought her closer, and the two moved around the room, every now and then giggling because a foot was stepped upon.
Usagi dear? Mayumi called throughout the house. We're back!
We're in here. Serenity replied, then let go of Seiya's hand, and turned off the music box.
Come help with the groceries! Takashi peered in the doorway, and smiled at her. His brown hair matted to his head from the hat he had been wearing all day. Oh Seiya-san! Nice to see you. The two men exchanged greetings, and the groceries were brought in.

Stay for dinner? Mayumi asked the tall, dark haired man, who politely turned down her invitation as he had his mother to tend to. The family said their goodbyes, and Seiya was on his way.
Now that's a man for you Usagi. Takashi said once he had slid into his chair, a cup of tea in hand.
I wouldn't be surprised if you two got married within the next year. Mayumi chimed, dreamily. Serenity shook her head.
Iie. I don't think so. She giggled slightly, and turned her attention back to her letter.

I'm going to town, I'll be back shortly! Serenity said, as she closed the door behind her. She prayed her letter would soon reach Makoto, and that she was doing alright. She often went to town and asked for new about her mother, but did not always get an answer, as the people of Earth seemed to loathe those from the Moon.
After dropping the letter off, and giving her usual instructions, she turned to go back home, taking a path she had not gone down in many years. Soon the sun began to set, and Serenity found herself lost in the forest. It was then she heard horses in a pasture nearby. Following their sound, she came across a paddock. The blonde climbed the fence to investigate. What she found was something she could never imagine. A place similar to the stables she visited as a child. A large wooden barn, filled with ribbons, and tack, horse stalls lined with hay, and oats. Without thinking, she grabbed a saddle and bridle, and before she knew it was mounted on a horse, riding off towards the setting sun, not caring who saw her, or where she was going. Her long blonde hair streaming behind her, and the cool air beating against her cheeks.

Two weeks succeeding the date in which Serenity mailed her letter it arrived in Makoto's chambers. The Princess of Jupiter had just returned from another day of hard training, to find a white enveloped laying on her bedside table.
This is not like Mako-chan to be late. Minako complained, as the three girls, and Queen awaited Makoto's arrival to begin dinner. I'll go see what she's up to. Before anyone could answer the blonde was out the door, running towards Makoto's room.
Ohairi kudasai. Makoto managed through tears, as she heard a soft knocking at her door.
Mako-chan? Are you alright? Minako rushed over to her friend's side.
Makoto shook her head, tears falling from her face onto the pieces of paper which she held in her lap.
Minako wrapped an arm around Makoto's shoulders. You can always talk to me you know. Makoto looked her with watery eyes, and handed her the letter. Once Minako was done, she smiled. She seems so happy.
Hai. She's been writing me for years you know. I miss her. I wonder what she looks like now, do you think she's much different? Minako laughed.
Iie. I don't think our Princess will ever change. Look at her handwriting. Makoto smiled through her tears. Now come on, everyone's waiting.

It had been one month since Serenity had found the stables, but she quickly learnt that it belonged to Earth's King. Every few nights she would sneak from the house to go for a ride. Everything about it made her feel alive. Seiya would now visit every night, occasionally staying for dinner.
This night started like any other, Seiya had dropped by that afternoon, and helped with things around the house. Upon their return, Mayumi invited him to dinner, and he graciously accepted.
Usagi, are you alright? He asked her, as she stared with a blank expression at the Moon. She had just received another letter from Makoto, telling her everything was fine, but she missed her dearly. Seiya asked again.
Serenity turned her attention to the man seated next to her.
Are you alright? Seiya laughed, noticing the dreamy expression in her eyes.
She nodded, and he took a hold of her hand.
It's getting late you know. Seiya nearly whispered, his eyes never leaving hers. I think I ought to get going. Serenity nodded, and drew her hand away from his. I'll see you tomorrow?
She smiled, and once again turned her attention back to the moon.
Seiya had finally left, and once she was sure Mayumi and Takashi were sound asleep, she slipped out of bed, still wearing her nightgown, threw on a cape, and took off towards the stables. She ran through the thick forest, smiling the entire way at what lay ahead. She inhaled the cold scent of the night, happy to be free.