Yes... I realize it's been over a month since my last update. SORRY! Double classes, two jobs, and a four year old. Those are my excuses. Thank you to everyone who reviewed! More thanks to those who continue to read even though you look at your e-mail alert and go "what was this story about again?" :0) For those of you just joining me, yes this is "another one of those SM stories where the Princess is lost and then later found and she and the Prince of Earth fall in love" and blah blah blah. HOWEVER, I hope to add comedy to the tragedy, spins to the predictable ending, and really... just enjoyment to all.

Hope everyone had a safe and funfilled 4th! And as always... please R&R!

The sun peaking up over the hillside woke Mina and Artemis too early for their opinions. After failed attempts at additional sleep, the two chose to continue their venture toward the palace. A mile later, Mina had ventured off their chosen path and found a stream to bathe in. Artemis climbed a nearby tree and opted to catch up on sleep. Their spot had a cottage within view, but from the broken door and boarded windows, Mina assumed it was abandoned. As she began undressing, she made note of her whereabouts. The location could be useful in the future.

~*~

Malachite scanned his quarters one last time to make sure anything confidential had been locked and that he had packed all of his necessary belongings. With his frustration and feelings of stress lately, he made the decision to leave the palace for his week of vacation. He needed a week to be able to think about what was causing his tension.

Satisfied that he had completed all of his necessary tasks, he threw his bag over his shoulder and headed for the stables where his horse would be waiting for him.

~*~

Serena groaned as she became conscious. Yawning, she rubbed her eyes, lying on her back recalling the events of the previous night.

Darien closed the gap between them. Or had at least tried to. Much to Serena's horror and Darien's surprise, at the last second Serena jumped up causing their foreheads to meet in slightly painful contact.

"Ow, okay." Darien pulled away and rubbed his head, "Obviously not the right thing to do."

"Sorry," Serena giggled nervously, "I've just… *gulp* I've never done this before and—"

Darien's shock turned into amusement, "Done what before?"

His smile widened as her cheeks turned a light pink.

"Uh, you know…"

"No, actually I don't. What exactly do you think was happening here?"

Not catching onto his playful tone, Serena stood up from her chair instantly. Pushing her shoulders back and giving him one last glaring look, she stomped out of the kitchen.

Darien was left to stare after her with his mouth slightly ajar. To no one but himself he asked, "What the hell just happened?"

Opening her eyes with a sigh, she threw the covers off of her. Still slightly embarrassed over yesterday, she hoped that Darien wouldn't be tending the roses today. She had finished the layout for the new garden addition yesterday and would begin planting today, but with as much fuss Olivia had made over her not going near the Prince's rosebushes, she was dreading that today would be the day when he would actually show up to take care of them. A few of the red rose bushes were trying to branch out and dominate the nearby shrubbery, but Darien hadn't shown up to trim "his area" since Serena had first began working.

Groaning again, she threw her legs over the side of her bed as she forced herself to become mobile. She knew she was in for large amount of manual labor for the next week just digging the holes and trenches.

~*~

"What's the deal with Serena anyway?" Darien asked, trying to make it sound as though she were an apathetic subject to him as he peered out of one of his study's windows down into the gardens.

Andrew looked up from the scroll of tasks Malachite had left for him, "Excuse me?"

"Is she as innocent as she appears?"

"She'd better," Andrew grumbled. At the Prince's odd expression he cleared his throat, "Yes. Why do you ask?"

Darien shrugged and made his way over to the table Andrew was sitting at, "Curious. I haven't seen innocence in such a long time."

"Are you having ideas?"

"Protective."

"You could say that."

"I just did."

"Then yes, I am."

"As a lover or a brother?"

"Wh-w-what?"

Darien looked at his temporary aide in confusion, "Are you protective of her as a lover should be or as a brother would be?"

"Uh, oh." Andrew cleared his throat, "As a brother. We're uh, we're like family to each other. Nothing romantic going on."

"Then you can be my confidant," the prince half joked but turned serious when he noticed Andrew tense, "Seriously… am I intruding on something?"

"No," Andrew hesitated, "It's just that… well… Sere is like a little sister to me. And we've been through a lot together. I just don't want to see her hurting anymore. Besides, aren't you supposed to be working on settling down?"

A bitter laugh erupted from Darien's chest, "Yes, that I am. I suppose I should look at women with royal bloodlines instead of garden maidens." He turned his attention back to the window and watched as Serena began her work, "But they're not as interesting."

"What makes her so interesting?"

Darien shrugged once more, and faced Andrew, "I haven't figured it out yet. I think that's possibly what I like about her. She's different. Not many girls would pass up a kiss from the Prince of Earth."

Andrew began laughing despite himself, "I'm sorry." He stifled another chuckle, "Sere is stubborn and hard headed, but she's also like many other regular girls. She has dreams of meeting a good man, getting married, and raising children."

"Do you think she would be satisfied with that?"

"What do you mean?"

"I can't really place it," Darien paused, "But she doesn't come across as the type of person could be satisfied with a traditional lifestyle. Continuing an education is what I've found most interesting. Most women her age are looking for the husband and children if not already there."

Andrew thought over his words. Realizing the Prince wasn't trying to have his way with his sister, he took in a deep breath, "That's true. She's wanted someone who will let her live and have a life, even after settling down." He shrugged, "Maybe that's why she's still single. Honestly, I don't think she's even had her first kiss yet."

"Really? How can you be so sure?" Darien asked, his curiosity growing.

"We've told each other everything since we were little. You know girls. They never forget their first kiss. Their first crush, boyfriend… well any firsts really."

Darien frowned, disliking the possibility that Serena could have been with another man, and suddenly felt sheepish despite himself. He recalled the night of their first meeting. Her first kiss would have been with a half-drunk fool if Jadeite hadn't shown up. And then in the kitchen! He grunted. Not the most romantic setting.

"I will be sixteen in a week."

Her voice fluttered from his memory as his frown turned into a smile.

~*~

"Artemis," Mina groaned, "Why can't I transform and just teleport to the palace?"

"You're undercover Mina. You can't use your Sailor powers in public," the cat scolded from her arms.

"Yea, we're under cover," the blonde grumbled and rolled her eyes, "Which is why I'm talking to a cat…"

"C'mon Mina. We're almost to the edge of the city. You'll be fine for another day's travel. Besides, it'll help keep you fit!"

"What are you getting at Artemis?" Mina hissed and held him by the back of his neck bringing him to eye level.

Artemis laughed nervously, "Nothing Mina! Just saying it's a good way to stay in shape."

Mina was skeptical, but accepted his answer. She lowered him back into her arms, where he nestled into her. After a few more steps of silence, she broke it again.

"I miss home."

"I know Mina. I miss Venus too."

"And I miss the girls."

Artemis looked up at her with sad eyes, "I'm sorry you've had to keep this from them."

"I wish that I didn't have to," Mina stared off into the distance, "They would have been welcome on this trip. Maybe it wouldn't have taken this long…"

"Mina, you've only been here for a short while. You didn't expect to find the Princess on this highly populated planet so soon did you?"

At Mina's silence, Artemis began purring and rubbed his cheek against her arm, "Don't worry. You're doing everything you can."

Mina nodded in response, and scratched him behind his ears, "Thanks Artemis. Hey, I think I hear someone coming."

The cat perked up his ears and nodded, "It's a horse trotting."

Mina slowly migrated from the center to the right side of the road as a galloping horse and rider made its way toward her. The man riding was dashingly handsome, and Mina felt her cheeks burn at the thought. He sat tall on the gray appaloosa, speckled with white. Instead of riding on, he slowed as he neared her. And instead of continuing his journey, he stopped. For a moment, they simply stared at one another.

Slightly annoyed, Mina huffed not caring how attractive the man was, "Can I help you with something?"

"I'm sorry," the man blushed lightly, "I didn't mean to stare. What are you doing out here all alone?"

Mina looked around nervously and giggled, "Oh! I'm not alone! I have my cat here."

The man chuckled, "I don't see a cat as reliable source of protection while out of city limits."

"I'm headed home…" Mina lied, "We're only a day's journey away."

He was quiet for a moment and looked her up and down, leaving Mina to question whether or not he believed her story.

"Would you like an escort?"

Mina's jaw dropped, "What?"

"I was heading toward my cabin, but I can take a few days to ensure your safety."

"That really isn't necessary," she shook her head in protest, but found that she was drowning in his silver eyes.

He smiled and dismounted from the horse, extending his hand, "There's nothing to worry about. My name is Malachite. I am Prince Darien's first in command."

~*~

"Need a hand?"

Serena turned around and smiled, "Sure Andy. I need to move this tree over there." She pointed to the opposite side of the garden, "What are you doing here anyway? I thought you had some kinda training or something."

He nodded and helped Serena lift the small tree to where she had instructed, "He is meeting with Lady Beryl, so I have the rest of the day off. You realize it's after 2 don't you?"

Serena laughed as the two dropped the plant down, "Guess not. Can you believe I skipped lunch?"

"You missed a meal?"

"Oh shut up. I think I'm almost done here anyway." She took a look around and noticed about a dozen holes that needed to be filled, but decided they could wait another day. Bringing her attention back to her brother, she placed her hands on her hips, "Who's Lady Beryl?"

"From my understanding an old family… uh, friend."

"You don't sound so sure on that."

"Well, those were the words Darien used. But it was through gritted teeth, so I'm not sure how much emphasis I should put on the word friend."

Serena thought for a moment, and gulped as an emotion began to surface. It was uncomfortable and foreign.

"So… um," Serena cleared her throat and picked at her skirt, "Are they, uh… you know, lovers?"

"I'm not sure," Andrew asked skeptically. He knew full well from the discussion with Darien that Beryl was a hopeful Earth Queen Wannabe that wouldn't even make the first cut. He was also certain that Darien had a genuine interest in his baby sister, and could easily inform her of this fact. But what kind of brother would he be if he didn't make his sister's life more difficult than it had to be?

More discomfort, a dislike for the unknown female and a slight indication of … jealousy?

"Oh, I uh… I was just wondering. You know, all of the bride and wedding talk."

Andrew shrugged, "I'm not sure. But he's taking her to an early dinner tonight."

Yup. Definitely jealousy. Serena scowled at herself. It was over a guy she barely knew, and a guy where nothing had ever happened. To top it all off, a guy she knew she didn't stand a chance with and had even told to Jadeite she didn't want a chance with!

"Oh that sounds nice." Serena continued to pick at her skirt, more feverishly than before.

Andrew grinned, "Yea, he set up a private dinner in the entertaining hall. He said he even had a special wine and meal selected for the event."

"How special." Serena laughed bitterly, not quite understanding the raw emotion she was feeling inside. She wanted to cry, laugh, and scream all at the same time from anger, hurt, and the irony of it all.

"What the hell is with you Sere? If looks could kill…"

"Nothing! Nothing. Nothing, nothing, nothing!" she rambled, "I think I'm going to finish that book Jad gave me."

"You're still not over that fairy tale stuff? Did you read your poetry?"

"I want to read it and he has to return it tomorrow," she began walking toward her room, thankful for the change of subject and ignored his hint that she should be studying.

"I doubt anyone will be looking for it, and Jadeite doesn't really strike me as the type who is worried about whether or not a book is turned in on time."

She stopped and turned around, "Did you ever get those books I asked you for?"

Rolling his eyes, Andrew sighed and nodded. Satisfied, she turned on her heel and continued on her way.

"They're on your desk!" he called after her.

~*~

"What is all this?" she motioned her hand toward the candle lit table, roses, wine, and steak dinner.

Darien forced a smile and pulled out her chair, "My attempt at an apology."

Despite the control Metaria held over her, Beryl felt her heart flutter.

'Do not give in my Lady. Not until he gives you what you want.'

'Yes. Yes of course.'

Beryl smiled and took her seat, "That's nice of you Darien. But tell me, what motivated you to apologize?"

On the way back to his chair, Darien hid his grimace and took his own seat, "You are a dear friend Beryl. I did not behave respectfully during our lunch in the gardens. I am not looking for any hard feelings between us. You and your family's presence has been missed over the last few events. I would enjoy the company once more."

The redhead nodded, and fought back her tears, 'He did not invite me to say he loves me. Oh Darien… what's wrong with me?'

'Nothing is wrong with you my Lady. He is a foolish man! Teach him a lesson. Show him you are strong.'

"I don't think you're looking for any kind of feelings between us."

Darien sighed, "I'm sorry Beryl. If I could control my heart—"

"Why can't you admit that we are a good match?"

"Logically, we do make a good match."

"Then I do not understand why we are not together. You need a bride, and I am a good match."

Darien suppressed a growl by gritting his teeth. The woman was infuriating. Inviting Beryl for a dinner "date" was not his ideal environment for a meal.

"I want love Beryl."

The redhead sat frozen; her eyes focused on the plate before her as her hands clenched into fists in her lap.

"You will regret this."

Darien gave her a solemn nod unaware of the double meaning in Beryl's words, "I hope I do."

~*~

Mina sat in front of Malachite, his arms around her to hold the reins of the beautiful horse. Subconsciously, she leaned into his embrace as Artemis narrowed his eyes on the general.

"What exactly do you do as first in command?" Mina questioned, not taking her eyes off of the view before them—the flat golden plains behind them as the terrain became more mountainous and green, "Boss people around and help maidens in distress?"

She felt his chest rumble as he chuckled, "I'm in charge of the Earth's Army, after the King of course. I am in charge of recruiting, initial training, and military intelligence; however, my primary concern is the Prince's safety. I lead a team of three other generals."

"So what are you doing going to a cabin?"

"I need a vacation."

Mina giggled, "Sounds like it."

Malachite laughed, and realized it had been the first time in months where it had been genuine. He peered down at the young girl in front of him, admiring her golden hair and petite frame.

"Tell me about yourself Mina."

The blonde shrugged, "Not much to tell."

"Why not explain why you were a day's journey away from home by yourself."

"I told you," Mina shifted uncomfortably while keeping a haughty tone, "I have Artemis."

"And I told you… that's not a reliable source of protection."

"I was searching for someone," Mina answered softly, and she felt Artemis tense in her arms, "I'm looking for a lost family member."

"My sympathies. How long has she been missing? If you don't mind my asking."

"Far too long," Mina's voice was sad. She found it strange how she could miss someone she had never met before, "A few years now."

"Is she as beautiful as you?"

Mina beamed at the forward compliment and gasped at Artemis' low growl, "Artemis!"

Malachite chuckled, "I apologize for the cheesy pick up line. It appears as though your cat disapproves of me."

"He disapproves of everyone," she glared at the white feline who only returned her gaze with a stern look.

"Perhaps a fresh fish would get me into his good graces?"

Artemis' ears twitched.

"Are you hungry?" Malachite stopped the horse and took in his surroundings, "There is a stream nearby."

A loud growl emerged from Mina's stomach.

She blushed and he smiled, "Well, I suppose that answers my question."

~*~

An hour or so later a light knock at the door interrupted Serena's reading. Without looking up, she assumed it was Andrew checking in on her and called out stating it was okay to enter.

"I didn't think you were the type interested in fairy tales."

She jumped and slammed the book shut as Darien's breath tickled her left ear.

"What are you doing here?!"

Ignoring her question, he took the book from her hands and read the title.

"The Dark Kingdom? Hmmm. One of my favorites as a child."

"Mine too!" Serena giggled nervously and snatched the book back, holding it protectively to her chest, "What are you doing here?"

Darien sat at the head of her bed, hands behind his head and legs stretched out on the mattress and crossed at the ankles, "Well, there's a ball the next full moon."

Serena blinked and her grip loosened on the book in her clutches.

At her blank expression, Darien realized he would have to take the more direct approach. Her innocence got the better of her—not understanding his implied invitation, "I would like to take you."

"What?"

"Provided you and Jadeite don't have some kind of… agreement."

"What's that supposed to mean?!" Serena fumed, her face a dark red; half from embarrassment and half from anger.

Darien sweat dropped, 'She gets that innuendo but not when I try to ask her out.'

"I didn't know if he had asked you already."

She studied him for a moment, "Aren't these balls being held for you to mingle and find a wife?"

The Prince shrugged and looked up at the ceiling, his hands still tucked behind his head.

"Isn't it… I don't know… shooting yourself in the foot by showing up with a date?"

"Not many women care if I show up with a date or not. Many of the women won't even care when I'm married."

"That's disgusting."

"I know."

Serena blinked again. He was doing the same thing he did during their first meeting—agreeing with any insulting thing she had to say about the current topic. She instantly became irritated. How can you argue with someone who agrees with your argument?

"But I care if I show up with a date."

Serena snapped out of her trance to see that Darien's attention was no longer on her ceiling, but on her.

"Why me?"

"Well, since you haven't seemed to figure it out… I like you."

Her heart skipped a beat.

"Uh…"

He shook his head, smiling in disbelief, "Most girls would be screaming from excitement right about now."

Her eyes flashed and narrowed on his smirking face, "Like Beryl?"

"Ah, so you and your brother DO talk about everything. Useful information," He closed his eyes and leaned his head against her headboard, "Yes. Like Beryl."

"Is that what you want?"

"No. Which is why I'm asking the girl who is at a loss for words."

Serena growled at the jab, "Sorry, I can't. I have plans that evening." She turned her back to him and placed the book on her desk.

"Really?" He opened his eyes and rose and eyebrow, "Cancel them."

"I'm not going to cancel them," she turned to face him, glaring.

"How important are they?"

"The highest priority your highness. I ensure you." Serena folded her arms in front of her chest.

"You're not just blowing me off because I called you speechless are you?"

Damn him.

"No."

"Tell me your plans and I can forgive you for ditching me."

"I don't want your forgiveness!" Serena screeched, her hands clenched into fists at her sides, "And I'm not ditching you because I never agreed to go with you!"

Darien's expression darkened as his clouded eyes met her clear ones, "You cut whatever plans you have short, spend from eleven until midnight with me, and I'll make it worth your while."

Serena licked her lips, "I'll have to think about that."

He grinned and breathed onto her neck, "I'll see you at the ball."

Serena gulped, wondering how he sprung from the bed so quickly to be so close to her, "I haven't said yes."

She could feel his grin widen as his breath brushed her skin, creating goose bumps on both arms, making her heart flutter and her blood boil at the same time. Arrogant man.

"I'll see you at the ball."

After a light kiss on her neck, he was gone.

~*~

Mina dismounted from the horse with Malachite's help as soon as they reached the village perimeter outside of town.

"Are you sure you don't want me to take you to your home?"

Mina smiled, shaking her head and gave Malachite a small peck on the cheek, "No thank you. I will be fine from here."

Giving her a small bow, he mounted back onto his horse smiling at her, "I hope to see you again."

She nodded politely and waved as he turned the steed in the opposite direction and galloped away.

"Finally!" Artemis sighed, "I was beginning to think he was never going to leave."

"Oh come off it Artemis. He was nice. Besides, he cut our travel time in half. And fed you."

Artemis grumbled, "True. But I still get negative vibes from him."

"You get negative vibes about any man who shows interest in me," Mina rolled her eyes and began scanning the city for an indication of a place to stay the night, "You're worse than a father."

"I seriously doubt that."

~*~

"Which brings us to King Endymion and his son, Prince Endymion III."

Lita groaned, "Seriously, how important is this Earthling history stuff?"

"Extremely important," Amy advised, "I don't want to get there and insult the culture."

Raye rolled her eyes and yawned, "I don't know why you're here Lita. I wouldn't sit through this if I didn't have to. Besides, I highly doubt we're going to insult any of them. Father tells me they're nothing but barbaric brutes."

"Is that in comparison to Lunarians or Martians, Princess?"

Raye's face flushed at Charles' question.

The man smirked, "I thought so. Prince Endymion uses his middle name to avoid confusion and out of personal choice—Darien. He is to wed within the year and has begun the selection of his bride. "

"Excuse me, but how is the Prince's marriage plans relevant in our search for the Moon Princess?"

Charles turned to Amara, "As irrelevant as I am sure all of you, excluding Mercury, find this trivial information, it is important that you know what the current political structure is and the current events of the planet. This will ensure you have something to talk about, if needed for rapport. It is Earthling tradition that the Royals have weekly balls until the Prince has chosen a bride. He is not required to marry royal blood and therefore these events will serve you well as diversions or a prime environment for evaluating the planet's people in one location."

Amara nodded satisfied with the answer.

"Charles, when is our expected deployment date?"

"Michelle, you're looking at one week."

"One week!" Amy and Raye shrieked.

"There's no way we'll be finished with the obstacle course by then!" Raye complained.

Amara smirked, "Speak for yourself pip-squeak. But don't worry. If you don't pass Brian's standards, I'm sure Neptune and I can take care of everything."

Raye glared at the elder, "I'll pass, don't doubt that."

"Then I suggest you start thinking strategically and why we are going to Earth in the first place instead of insulting the planet. You need to get your head in the game, otherwise you'll never get through this and become a soldier."

"I am just as competent as you!" Raye's voice rose, "Do not think because you are two years my senior that you over power me!"

"I can think so because I do."

"That's enough!" A loud crack interrupted the two arguing Princesses. The girls turned to see Charles' wooden bow had struck the marble table they were sitting around, his eyes flared, "You are a team. Do not forget that. You must work together in order to accomplish this mission or you will all fail. The universe is depending upon you—not only the Moon. Both of you recognize the importance of your lessons. You do not get the training The Seven have received; you are barely receiving two weeks. Quit thinking about yourselves and remember why you are doing this. This is for your people." Charles studied the figures around the table, all of them looking sheepish. Sighing, he replaced his bow in his side holster and waved the girls away, "You're dismissed. You have six hours before your next session. I suggest you sleep."

~*~

Fingering the gold locket, Serena closed her eyes. After the episode with Darien, she grabbed the trinket and made her way through the garden to the fountain. Letting the sound of the water soothe her, she laid on a grassy area to think. Her birthday was on the next full moon. The family's tradition was her favorite meal, a cake made from the bakery in town, and games and stories around a large fire until everyone had fallen asleep. But this year, it was only her and Andy. And Andy was a guard… he would probably have to work. But if she went, that would imply she had given in to Darien's demands. She didn't know if her pride could take that. But did she really want to spend her birthday alone?

"Ssssth…"

Serena's eyes shot open at the new sound. Propping herself up, she looked around, "What the—"

"Energy my ssssweeet…"

"AAAH!" Serena screamed at the beast before her—a gigantic black snake with a male human head, red slit eyes, as a dark blue tongue lashed out.

"Python." She whispered and began to crawl backwards.

The snake arched up and tilted his head, "You know my name." Slithering closer, he lowered his head and tilt it to the side, "No one hasss called me my name in decadessss. "

Serena gulped, continuing to pedal back, "You're welcome?"

Hissing, the creature followed her movements, "That wasss not a thank you. Knowledge of my name or not, I am here for energy."

"You're Meteria's pet."

Python hissed louder, "I am no one'ssss pet!"

"Serena!"

The snake jerked, turning his head and most of his body toward the new voice.

"Jadeite! Andy! Look out!"

The snake darted toward the two guards.

"What the fuck is THAT?!"

The two men dodged in opposite directions as the snake attacked where the two once stood.

"I think that's a snake Andy."

"Shut up Jad, you know what I fucking mean."

"ANDY!" Serena screamed as Python lunged toward him. Andrew drew out his sword and swung, the snake hissed in agony from the contact of the metal.

"Dude, since when do you curse?"

"Since a fucking huge ass snake is trying to eat me! When the fuck do you NOT curse?!"

"Since I learned that these situations are best handled when you keep your emotions in check."

Jadeite took out his own weapon and went for the snake's stomach. Stabbing him successfully, the snake snapped his attention to Jadeite and the piercing knife now in its back.

"Ut oh."

"Shit." Andrew breathed as the creature gripped the weapon with its mouth and ripped it out.

"Woah, one hardcore animal."

Python spit out the sword, flinging it to the other side of the garden.

"Jadeite!" Serena hollered again as Python attacked.

Jumping out of reach, Jadeite maneuvered out of the way, but realized his mistake—he was trapped in a corner and with no weapon.

"Aw fuck."

"Your energy foolisssh mortal," Python rose himself up high, opening his mouth ready to snap down onto the general. Suddenly, the animal screamed in agony, thrashing about, and finally collapsing with a loud thud.

When the snake fell, Jadeite's eyes traveled from the snake's head to a standing Serena who was breathing heavily, her arm extended. Looking back at the snake, it was obvious to what had happened. Serena had grabbed the dagger and threw, causing the blade to penetrate the back of Python's head instantly killing it. Her knees gave out and she fell to the ground.

Andrew's brotherly instinct hit full force as he scrambled over to his sister. Examining her, both breathing heavily, he hugged her tightly.

"You okay?"

"Yea," Serena nodded, "I—I'm fine."

"Where the hell did that thing come from?" Jadeite exclaimed, taking wide steps around the snake's body in order to make his way over to the other two.

"The Dark Kingdom."

Andrew groaned, "No way Sere. No way is that crap in that crappy book real. No frickin way!"

Jadeite rolled his eyes, "Now he stops cussing."

"Andy," Serena looked him in the eyes, "It's real. If that snake isn't proof enough for you, then I don't know how else to convince you. I was able to kill it because of the information in the book."

"She has a point Andy."

"Not you too."

"How else are you doing to explain a 100 foot deadly snake-man-head-thing wanting our energy? And the only way of killing it is by stabbing it in the back of the head?"

"One way."

"What?"

"One way, Jad. You could have sliced his belly open or stabbed him in the eye."

Jadeite gawked and nodded, "Yea, good to know Sere. I'll remember that."

"You remember how to kill a mythical snake, but it takes you six months to understand pentameters."

"Ha! That's a pun! Six… penta… ha ha!"

Andrew sweat dropped, "Uh, Jad… 'penta' means five."

"Oh yea, I knew that."

~*~

"My poor Python. You were not strong enough yet. That little blonde girl will be more trouble than I thought. Beryl, we start with your revenge by first getting the book."

"Yes Metaria."

Ta da! More to come... uh... soon. Sorry... best estimate I got! :o( Let me know what you think.