Chapter Three

When the time came, everything was ready. The doors were opened for their guests from other planets to gather in. The long table shrouded in silk carried the best dishes the kingdom had to offer. Extravagant floral arrangements stood by the marble columns while silver and gold draperies hung from the ceilings. Along the walls were tapestries that depicted the wealth and longevity of the moon kingdom. Elegant warriors, former kings, queens, and the city at its best and brightest during the night. Chatter filled the walls, bouncing along the glass walls and dome ceiling. Four thrones sat at the top of a dais facing the growing crowd, currently empty of the royal family. The thrones were appropriately marked with the sun and moon symbols. Everyone knew at once who would be sitting where. To the left side of the dais where the Sun Prince's four generals: Heero Yuy, Duo Maxwell, Triton Bloom, and Wufei Chang. They all bore the marks of their places before joining rank with their closest friend, sworn to protect him and his family from any harm. They stood at the bottom of the dais, fanned out in a protective barrier.

Duo Maxwell, also Prince of Saturn, stifled a yawn. His eyes were a blazing amethyst that no blue or violet could accomplish. They shone like rare gems within his oculars, with a few strands of his short chestnut hair falling over them. The rest of his hair was pulled back in a long thick braid that surpassed his waist. He looked to the other generals with his signature goofy grin. He sported the black and gold that identified them as Soldiers of the Eclipse. The purple sign of Saturn was printed on the center of his chest plate, and he already wished that he could wear something more comfortable since this was a party after all. He hated looking serious. He was known as the Prince of Death, with powers so destructive and dangerous, yet he was the most easygoing and playful of his comrades. An intriguing contrast, but such that wooed many women.

Triton Bloom stood as the tallest of the group, and each were already quite tall themselves. His eyes were the color of pale green, hair an ash brown that defied gravity with his protruding bangs. The rest of his hair was kept short and cut close to his skull. His bangs were left along, which added only a mysterious appeal to the soldier known for his wise words and poetic appeal. A blue insignia of Mercury was printed on his armor, a sign that represented his affinity toward water. He was known among his comrades for riding the tides. The sea was his second place in the kingdom, where he found ease and comfort within the company of his sea animal friends and books.

Wufei Chang was the fiercest looking of the group. His sharp features and slanted obsidian hues lacked any humor whatsoever. Jet black hair was pulled into a tight knot at the back of his head. He was known as The Dragon, and he came from a family known for forging the strongest blades in the kingdom. The flames were his allies, as well as his element. The symbol of Mars stood out on his armor in bold crimson. He stood with tension set in his soldiers, hands clasped behind his back, but always close to his blades. He would rather be in the training room, perfecting his techniques in various forms of melee weapons and hand-to-hand combat. His thick eyebrows were set in a permanent scowl, although his features expressed calm. He was assessing the crowd.

Heero Yuy was their lead general. Perfect in every form of artillery and combat, he had already mastered the basics of everything to do with war - when he'd been a little boy. His Prussian eyes regarded the room coldly, expression placid. Dark chocolate locks were swept away from his chiseled features, yet the rebellious strands continued to fall over his dark, dark eyes. The symbol of Uranus was on his armor, a representation of a force that shouldn't be reckoned with. Regardless of the magic, he believed in keeping a weapon or two close at all times. Hence why his soldiers were always armed and prepared to battle. It didn't matter if this was a birthday celebration; no one should ever leave unprepared.

Each general, beautiful and handsome in their own respective ways. Duo was the easiest to approach of the group. The rest had some sort of shield that repelled outside company unless they granted it.

"I hate capes. They always get in the way." Duo muttered. He fidgeted slightly before clasping his hands behind his back.

"Surprisingly, I agree." Triton murmured, wishing that he had one of his books to read. His hands too were clasped. As were the generals posture should be until the arrival of the royal family.

"I believe we would be much swifter without the extra weight to carry, but they are durable. Perhaps you are still weak, you braided fool." Wufei said without taking his eyes off the crowd.

As usual, Heero had no comments to make. Unless given a quantity amount of alcohol, he'd keep silent. No one followed the motto "speak when spoken too" like him.

Then, trumpets blared signaling the entrance of the royal family. The orchestra near the spiral staircase began playing a tune. All eyes turned to the doors that'd open at the top of the stairs. It was a magical sight as always; the large black and white felines known as Luna and Artemis led the way down with their silver crescents gleaming on their foreheads. They were much larger than wolves, with claws that tapped against the crystal stairs. Once they were at the bottom, they settled on either side of the balustrade and emitted the yowling roar that felines their sizes could only accomplish. King Sol was noted first, considering his impressive height that dwarfed his wife's frame immensely. He had a powerful build, with a wide chest and broad shoulders. His skin shone exotically dark in contrast to the queen - a russet that was seemingly unscathed because of his white and golden robes. The long sleeves, high collars, and long trousers hid the scars from many battles and his training during his youth. King Sol's hair was spun white with shimmering golden strands that were pulled back from his sharply handsome visage in a long half-ponytail. Pale brows arched over his electric blue eyes in a manner that only intimidated unless he smiled. At his elbow was Queen Selenity, ever lovely in her shimmering white gown and pearls. She looked as radiant as ever within the ballroom, smiling and waving to the crowd. The royal couple stopped at the bottom of the staircase between their massive cats.

The twins followed in tow and came to a stop behind their parents. Quatre deemed himself as the older brother for being born minutes ahead of Serenity. Their resemblance was extremely close, cheeks rounded no matter how matured their body were. Quatre stood at five-eight, with tousled, short platinum hair and a soft tan to his perfect skin. He had a lean build beneath his gold and white attire, with his shoulders padded with armor embroidered by the Sun Kingdom's symbol. A long golden cape hung behind him with white underneath. It flowed behind him before sweeping to his ankles in a nearly dramatic display. His fitted golden trousers were tucked into his knee high, golden plated boots. Dyed leather that carried the golden shimmer wrapped snugly around his torso with elbow length sleeves. The rest of his arms were covered by golden, yellow, and white designed gauntlets. His turquoise eyes were lit up. It was technically their birthday, but Quatre wasn't one for over-the-top celebrations. He had already celebrated the night before with a ride out through the wilderness on horseback with his friends and sisters, before toasting to a ruckus dinner until the late hours of the night. Yes, Quatre had already celebrated and had a blast doing so. Unfortunately, their mother made sure that Serenity didn't stay with them long.

Serenity smiled at her brother. She stood a little shorter, at five-six. Her golden locks spun with silvery strands were pulled into the customary buns and streamers just like her mother's hairstyle. The dress she and Vashe agreed upon was spectacular. A strapless, umpire-waist gown with a large butterfly-shaped bow resting above her posterior, with long streamers that descended like a train down the back of her skirt. The skirt flowed like a waterfall made of silk. The gown was white, with silver designs along the hem and the lining of her umpire waist. Pearls glistened around her neck with diamonds that twinkled like stars beneath the lights. She wore a small crystal crown that bore the moon's symbol; a clear indicator that she was next in line, since Selene had refuted the throne.

Selene was right behind her brother and sister. She stood close and center, also towering in her five-eleven frame. Her long, long hair was pulled back in an elaborate twist of curls and braids that rested against the back of her head. Her gown was very similar to Serenity's; also white, but with one strap connected to a shoulder pad that resembled an armor plate with tiny crystals and intricate silver patterned designs. Her gown sheathed her form like a glove and fanned out at her knees. They each took their respective seats, except for Selene. She stood close to her younger sister's throne, looking quite at ease although the situation seemed a little perplexed to some of their guests. She rested her hand on Serenity's pearly shoulder, applying a gentle, sisterly squeeze as she retained her smile.

Serenity reached up to place her hand over her sister's, and gently laced their fingers together. King Sol and Queen Serenity raised their opposing hands to command silence into the room. Everyone hushed, as well as the musicians as they temporarily lay down their instruments.

Serenity looked to the gathered crowd as the King and Queen welcomed their guests. Their voices rung loud and majestic, resonating with a power that made them the stronghold of the universe. If the Sun and Moon could unite, so could the other planets. As they celebrate their youngest coming of age, also giving praise to their son, they will cherish their united planets and look forward to the strengthened bond the Silver Alliance will grant them. She wore her smile like a mask, while holding onto Selene's hand. She wished that Quatre was beside her as well. The sibling bond was a very powerful thing, and she'd feel infinitely better with her twin next to her. She reluctantly released Selene's hand when it was her turn to greet their guests. Eyes turned to her expectantly, and she rose from her throne.

"I welcome you all for gathering together for the celebration of my eighteenth birthday. I know many faces here already, but there are those I have yet to meet. I'd like to meet you all, but foremost, enjoy our hospitality. Have food, drink, and a dance or two." Her lips tilted when she earned some goodhearted laughs, "it is a birthday celebration after all." She curtsied to end her short speech before settling down. She didn't wish to add onto her mother's segment regarding the Silver Alliance.

She could feel her mother's piercing eyes, and decided to clap her hands twice as a sign for the musicians to pick up their instruments. The guests began to disperse and mingle, but a small gathering remained at the bottom of their dais. Her brother's generals kept them from stepping any closer. Serenity lifted a silvery brow and leaned forward slightly. "Who are they?" She asked while keeping her tone light. Her teeth were softly gritted. She had an inkling of what was going on. Her lessons as future Queen involved having to socialize with potential suitors. Serenity wasn't quite ready with that particular notion. She wanted to settle down and enjoy herself a little.

"They are suitors, Serenity. As the heiress to this kingdom, you will deal with plenty who will be seeking your hand for marriage." Selenity said and lifted her hand to wave to the Queen of Mercury, Tallulah, wife of Poseidon.

"But you only intend for her to meet one," Selene cut in flatly.

"Selene," Sol murmured. He had one elbow propped on his arm rest, chin resting on his knuckles as his searing blue gaze assessed the crowd of suitors the only way a father would. Critically. But his smile was wide and disarming. King Sol was known for his love of wine and laughter. Before he became king, he'd been a rowdy prince, reckless and always seeking new adventures and challenges to face.

Only one call of her name earned her silence. Selene steeled her lips together. She exhaled softly and leaned down to whisper in Serenity's ear, "I'm sorry, Sere... but happy birthday." Serenity nodded and leaned her head against Selene's cheek.

"It's okay, sister. You needn't apologize for anything. I know how mother gets."

"You're forgiving as always." Selene said warmly until her expression turned shrewd. A brave soul decided to break the fold; the first suitor who intended on asking the princess for a dance. "And it begins," she muttered and stood up straight.

The young, brave soul introduced himself as Prince Julian from Vera. He was two years younger than Serenity, gangly and still enduring the awkward phase of puberty. Serenity's eyebrows rose to her hairline with surprise and slight apprehension. From this close, she could see his acne dotting across his face and forehead like their own constellation. He stood with his chest puffed out, and a smile that revealed a row of his bottom crooked teeth. Awkward, yes, but somewhere, given the time and patience, he could grow out to be handsome.

"M-may I ask the Princess Serenity for a dance." He stuttered. His cheeks reddened and Serenity tried not to look to her brother and sister for assistance.

"If you ask, I can take him off your hands." Selene murmured low enough for Serenity to hear but not Julian.

Serenity sighed and shook her head. She stood up and held out her hand for Julian to take. "Of course. I'll be honored." Julian was just as surprised as the other suitors waiting down below. They'd been waiting for a rejection. The young princess was then led down the dais. She looked sheepishly to her brother's generals. Duo shrugged, Triton smiled, and Wufei looked a touch sympathetic toward her situation. When her gaze landed on Heero, his face that was once difficult to read showed something. Having spent a great deal of time with them - especially the army's "Perfect Soldier," she was getting better at detecting any hints of emotion, especially in his Prussian eyes.

His brows were knitted together, and a tension was easily noted in his jaw. Serenity canted her head but was then whisked away toward the center of the dance floor. Julian guided her into their respective stance, and then led her into the universal waltz known among any royalty.


Eliza brushed her gloved hands over the folds of her skirt. Her long raven hair was pulled to the side in one long braid that rested over her shoulder. A red rose was pinned just above her hair where her bangs swept over to one side of her face. Her gown matched her deep sapphire eyes, and brought out her very fair skin. Her painted red lips parted slightly in awe at the decor. She had arrived just after Serenity'd been asked to her first dance of the evening. Her brother's four generals, all sported in their gray uniforms, accompanied her, while the prince himself remained elusive for now. He had some business to take care of, and she didn't ponder too long on what business he had on the silver planet. They had barely settled into their rooms.

With a shake to her head, she clasped her hands together to stop any unladylike fidgeting. "Goodness, this is extravagant." She said as her eyes flitted from one elegant design to another.

"And once again, the moon seeks to outshine the other planets. All this luxury for just a birthday party." Nephrite said with disinterest. He was the tallest, with the darkest and richest brown hair that fell in waves to his waist. Chiseled with hard lines, though still handsome, Neprhite's cool blue-gray stare surveyed the room and guests with boredom.

"But one cannot ignore how much beauty radiates this room, Nephrite. Must you ignore the gaggle of women already looking your way?" Zoisite cooed. He had plucked a silver rose that decorated the main foyer. He twirled it between his thumb and forefinger. His long dark blond hair was pulled back into a low ponytail to reveal the effeminate lines of his face. Sharp green eyes appreciated the various styles of feminine styles, especially one that showed skin. He may be vain, but he still appreciated beauty elsewhere.

Jaedite crossed his arms. He was the only one of the group to keep his dusky blond hair short. His boyishly handsome features wore a frown, and he stood the closest to Eliza. His lips twitched slightly when Eliza spoke, "oh, come on guys, aren't we supposed to be jovial - jolly? It's a birthday party after all! Maybe you need a drink, Nephrite, and Jaedite... you need to stop frowning. That look doesn't suit you at all!"

The oldest of the generals laughed. Malachite's skin was a deep bronze that made his long white hair and brows stand out. He was the only general to wear his coat with his lapels parted to reveal the firm line of his chest. He was also the kind of handsome that borderlined beautiful. His mercurial gaze shone with a warmth that the princess of earth could only incite. "What does our princess wish to do, hmm?"

"I want to dance, but I know that none of you want to. You're all too shy." She smirked when Jaedite's eyebrows rose. Zoisite chuckled.

"Oh, it's not that we're shy, princess." Zoisite said, " we just don't feel like dancing."

"And we are only here to keep an eye on you." Nephrite said a little stiffly.

"Did my brother put you up to this?" Eliza demanded as she looked from one to the other.

"Well, no." Nephrite said after a moment's hesitation.

Malachite was too amused with this ordeal. "Eliza, I will promise you a dance after I have myself a drink or two." His tone was that of brotherly affection.

Eliza made a show of rolling her eyes, "I suppose I'll just have to find someone else to dance with."

"And there she goes..." Zoisite sang softly as their princess left them.

Jaedite watched Eliza quietly. Her deep sapphire gown that nearly shone violet beneath the lights flowed behind her. The way it hugged her body revealed that she was no longer the little girl he knew her to be. Malachite rested a hand on the general's shoulder, "she's grown up now, Jaedite. She can't stay a child forever."

"I know, Malachite. I know."