In the company of wolves
Ami squinted her eyes as they glided desperately over title after title, mistreated ancient books at her feet helped to slow down her pace. She tripped and fell over, the hem of her tattered dress tearing against the leathery backs and fronts of books. Harsh footsteps echoed in the distance, the silence of the place quickly replaced by a menacing body approaching. The princess sighed and as gently as she could got up and properly realigned her dress.
"Lady? Are you well? I could not ignore the mysterious sounds you have made. May I be of any assistance?" an old woman, the years of silence and darkness from being condemned to the library etched on her worn face, asked kindly but with a sorrow face as she glared at the piles of books at Ami's feet.
The girl blushed at the mess she had made, making a feeble move to pick up the books. Seeing it would take time she preferred not spent in the presence of the librarian, Ami gave a small smile and straightened to her full length "That's very kind but I can help myself. Seeing that I am quite alone and in good health you mustn't worry yourself over any further or mysterious sounds. Please, continue with what you may" she said kindly but with a powerful air she had discovered only a few days ago. Empirical knowledge, as apposed to written knowledge, had served her well.
The librarian smiled crookedly, a twitch in her eye apparent. Had she encountered anyone else they would surely be sent to the gallows, at least in her mind. Alas, the princess was obviously granted full permission to do and say as she like in the library. With a less than graceful curtsy, the old woman left, the sound of her footsteps slowly floating away.
Truthfully, Ami was embarrassed by the way she had handled the books. A famously admired collection of scripture was entrusted to her by the Queen, centuries of history and accounts were barely summed up in the hundreds of rows of books which towered to the ceiling. And yet, despite her love and devotion to them, the princess had lost her passion to a much deeper and stronger enemy, anger. And so, the books had not been spared.
She began straightening out her mess, or trying to. Seeing no end to matching the titles alphabetically or even by category, Ami was left to simply stack the books neatly. She felt for the librarian who, with no hope of escape, would have to take care of the several piles of books also scattered under each shelf of the enormous library. The candles lighting the place began to, almost magically, die down as the sun rose in the distance through the large mosaic windows aligning the structure.
Ami dreaded the morning but like almost everything else, including the night, it had to come. Her quest was over. Her freedom would drift away slowly and disappear completely when evening came and she would meet her future husband. Makoto would be there as well, surely enthralled by the whole scheme. The thought maddened her even more, her leg tempted to kick over the pile she had neatly made of books. Fortunately, a familiar voice caused her to cower once again in shyness.
"I've already revised almost every piece of script in this place, you won't find what you're looking for"
"Pardon me Princess Rei-chan, I seem to have left an awful mess. I'm sure I can help you find what you're looking for, I have a keen sense of memory. Do forgive me" Ami practically whispered behind her ever growing blush. She idly traced her fingers over the book at the top of the pile she had just made, as if she was trying to remedy her destruction with the neatness of her pile.
The miko stepped out from behind the towering shelf and walked gracefully between the books still scattered on the floor "Don't be coy Ami-chan, you, we don't have time for politeness or chatter. The day will go by much too quickly and before we know it the ball will have commenced and...so will a life we have not chosen. There is no such book around us which will relieve us of our duties" she said running a finger over the cover of a lone book, her flesh glowing a very light orange as she touched it.
Ami stared amazed at the book and then back at Rei "Did you just read that with a single touch?" she asked excitedly but envious at the same time. It would certainly explain how her fellow princess could possibly know if what she sought was in the library.
"No. That would be impossible, as far as I can see. I simply...see if it contains what I am looking for. It is not easy, especially when one is as distraught as I am, but after many attempts it becomes a habit, when I do not differ from one thought, and thus that is how I have revised every single book"
"That is incredible. Yet, I cannot imagine we are both looking for the same thing"
Rei nodded "I can see why you are doubtful. I have to admit, I took as a hunch, seeing how fervently you have looked for a way out, much like I have. I couldn't possibly think your motives are different than mine" she said frowning at the sight of the almost full sun.
Ami understood and it was true, politeness would only take away more time "I would've thought you were fine with a marriage of this nature, given how you feel about any other kind of...relationship" she said calmly despite what was being implied.
The miko said nothing, instead she took Ami's hand and led her away and into the main aisle of the library where she and her friend walked quickly past the rows of books until they arrived at the entrance where the librarian barely glanced at them as they left.
"Why such as scene? Where are we going?" the genius demanded as they entered a long hall filled with curious looking soldiers standing against the walls.
"We haven't the time to linger aimlessly in the library, it isn't safe to speak so freely especially of matters such as this" Rei whispered as she rushed along the corridor and out into an open hall.
"This is no way to seek inattentiveness from the guards, they keep no secret of what they see. Besides, we are committing no crime for discussing certain matters" Ami said as they slowed down and walked unnoticed through beautiful yet useless connecting chambers.
"You're right, we haven't discussed anything worthy of punishment, not yet. But, even the slightest wind of high treason is very different"
"Treason! Are you mad?" Ami cried as she stopped in her spot.
"Be quiet! I thought i could trust you to be calmer! Come on, we haven't much time before someone starts looking for us. Just listen to what I have to say" the miko urged and was met by a nod before the two continued on. When the seemingly endless chambers ended and opened into another empty hall, Rei steered them to the right an through a glass door which led to the eastern garden.
The Mercurian recognized it from the time she had wandered in and found Princess Serenity crying on a stone bench. Despite having entered it differently, she was sure the pattern of arranged flowers was the same. The two princess´ made their way in and through the walls of large plants and bushes which made it so hard to reach the seemingly sacred stone bench.
"How do you know we won't be heard here? I'm sure not even this thick flora can hide our whispers" the genius pointed out.
"No, but something more powerful does. I saw the princess enter days ago and than you. Yes, I was spying on Usagi-chan or for a better word, protecting. I just happened to see you follow her awhile after. Her aura disappeared as she reached the middle of the garden, as well as yours. I could no longer perceive you let alone have any kind of access, as feeble as it could be, to either of your thoughts. Don't worry, I can only sense emotion, not exactly what you're thinking. Anyway, it seems where we are headed is very private, that's why our princess goes there" Rei explained as they continued to charge through the large and imposing leaves and branches.
"That's all very well but what if she's there at the moment. What of the guards?"
"Usagi-chan is in her room, too excited to sit due to the arrival of Prince Endymion. She will not be bothered with anything besides what she will wear and how she looks. And honestly Ami-chan, do you think they hold privy to this place? We will be left quite alone and to speak as freely as she may" the miko assured before pulling away a large leaf and entering the clearing where the famous stone bench stood.
"In all honesty, I feel quite uncomfortable with this situation" Ami said as she nervously sat on the bench.
Rei remained standing and looked deeply into the sitting girl's frightened eyes "I understand and you may leave if and when it fits you but! I will know if you tell a anyone about what we have spoken of to this point and furthermore. But still, you must promise me now, that you will not say a word, as I shall not either. Yes?" she demanded as she held our her hand.
It took a moment for Ami to take in the moment before she nodded and took the miko's hand in hers. There was a second she could feel a heat rise in her palm and a slight burn in her mind. The feeling was gone as quick as it came and the two princess` were now sitting face to face in the garden.
Surprisingly, the blue haired girl was first to speak as a sign of her honest loyalty "It is true then, there is no way to avoid a marriage which is binding. I can't see how us marrying those men we don't know will help anyone. Yet, the law is for it. Well? Is there some way, which apparently involves high treason, to see this through?" she asked angrily, the thought made her cringe.
"There are legal ways, but none apply to us. A strong allegiance with Earth is for the well-being of the system, whether we like it or not. That, in it's self is good enough reason for this barbarity to happen"
"Legal ways? Which?"
Rei sighed as she unconsciously pointed out three fingers "One would be if there was no war, famine or economic downfall due to poor relations between planets, which is very rare. The second takes place if one or both parties are on the brink of death, in love and the union would hurt no third party. And lastly and most ridiculous is relatively new, that is if both parties are truly in love. It's never been done on the Moon and many still frown upon it. I believe that is one of the reasons we have such terrible relations with Neptune and Uranus. They practice that sort of law very openly" she explained before clenching her fingers back into a fist.
"Yes, i've heard" - Ami whispered as she blushed, remembering the rumors she heard of the princesses of these planets - "Still, I find the third option much more agreeable than treason. Despite it never been performed here or on any other inner planet, it is a law and that is that" she stated firmly.
The miko shook her head amusingly "Really? You know, they don't just ask you if you're in love and that's that. It takes time and proof. And even if you had it, who may I ask do you love? I dare not say a soldier or mistress has taken your heart, of that I'm sure" she jested a little to roughly.
The genius no longer felt like one. She felt very stupid which was something almost unknown to her. Something was happening to her and end result was childish and irrational thinking. "So, what is there for us to do then?" she asked once out of her stupor.
Rei noticed the reaction of her words and spoke gently "If you are truly desperate and the idea of marrying a man you do not know or could possibly never love drives you mad then I have a possible albeit very dangerous proposition. It will take courage, strength and a heart of stone, much harder and grey than where we sit. You cannot hesitate for a moment when we begin and there is no turning back, yes?" she said in a scarily scheming voice.
"Your words frighten me but they intrigue me. I do...feel that I am running out of breath and I have never so strongly to disobey my mother and the law and everything! I...I can't possibly go through with it. It will take my sanity and then I will certainly die" Ami spat out in frustrated tears, she was no longer ashamed of crying, especially since it was fit.
"I didn't know you felt so strongly against it, especially since you haven't met the General. Still, it is clear, for your and your reasons only that you could never love him even if he was gentler than a morning bird or sang like one for that matter. I feel for you and your angst but I am glad you're determined, it is what we need"
"What we need for what exactly?
Rei nodded and scanned the area one more time "We need to escape. Flee from the castle as far and hidden as possible. We can't a ship or hide in the mountains but...there are many outcast villages on the other side of the Moon" the said quietly.
"That's not possible, we'd be searched for and found, if such villages exist"
"Not in the one I'm speaking of. Most don't even no it's there or have forgotten it is. One my mistresses escaped from there, she had to forge papers saying she was from the port at the end of the Mare. Anyway, we arrive there and hide out until enough time has passed that we no longer need to be unseen"
"She just told you this, freely? It's sounds untrue" Ami said disappointed.
"I know this because she knows something just as awful about myself. Servants often do when one forgets they are there. But that is beside the point. We'll find fine refuge with the smallest of jewels you may have or I. They don't bother asking where it came from as long as it's genuine. A small satchel with our possessions could render us for a year at least, we can even pay for silence. It's tricky, I know but we'll be free!" Rei explained excitedly as if the idea were brilliant and fail proof.
Unfortunately for her, the blue haired girl did not see it this way. "I can't see how this could possibly work. We're guarded at every moment, how can we escape before the ball? They'll be all over us, they're probably looking for us at this very moment" she protested and pointed out.
"That's why were escaping during the ball"
"During? How? It's extremely unlikely we'll go undetected" Ami said before realizing she was actually considering the crazy idea.
The miko perked up as if she had heard something before speaking "Every servant, soldier, minister and such of the palace will be at the ball or at least thinking of nothing but of it. They stupidly think that with the Prince and Generals arriving that no threat could overpower such a party, so they're leaving the outsides practically unarmed. For a brief moment, when the guests appear and present themselves, that is our cue to leave. We escape to the stalls and take horses, any horses and leave. The outskirts where there's forest is our best bet if we want to go unseen. By the time they notice we're missing they'll check every single corner of this enormous palace before making a scandal out of it. By that time, we'll be long gone" she finished before taking a long breath, her speech was much faster as the sun became more apparent.
Ami didn't know Rei that well, that was certainly true. In fact, she could say she didn't know her at all but still, the little information she knew of the girl would have never indicated such thoughts and actions. Perhaps she was changing too. "What about the other two princess's? Are they coming?" she asked nervously, her heart pounded even fiercer at the thought of seeing Makoto again or possibly living the rest of her life with her hidden in some forsaken village on the Moon.
"It's not possible. The four of us cannot disappear at the same time. It would take much longer to flee and we would need a much bigger distraction during the ball then those Terrans. Besides, only you know of this so if anyone were to find out, I'd know exactly who told them" the priestess said between a chuckle and a threat.
"So, we are the lucky two to survive this horrible predicament? I must've been mistaken when i thought you had taken a liking to Minako-chan" Ami dared to put out. Again, there was no time for politeness or etiquette.
Rei heaved and looked away to hide a single tear rolling down her cheek "We're not lucky, we're weak. They'll survive whereas we cannot, you've said it, you'd die. Makoto-chan would never allow a man, despite his size, to take over her in any way. And Minako-chan...well, she sees no fault in anyone and her beauty is so that even...a horrible man could not harm her but fall deeply in love. They'll be well taken care of or taking care of themselves well. We can't worry" she whispered solemnly.
"I've finally understood why you've chosen me. It's fair, I am weak and Makoto-chan is strong. Must I decide this very moment?" Ami asked sadly.
"You shouldn't. I would not accept an answer from you right now but I must have one before your mistresses and mother tend to you for the ball, we won't have a moment of privacy after that. If you agree you must place absolute trust in me because we have had no time to rehearse this" - Rei perked up again before quickly beginning to speak again - "If you agree, bring a satchel of jewelry and items of worth, not too big though. Also, bring your most casual set of clothes, perhaps something you'd wear for gardening or riding. I'll take care of the lot for our journey. That's all you need to know for now" she rushed nervously.
"And if I say no?" Ami tempted.
"Then I trust you to keep to your promise for my sake and I would also pray everyday for you happiness or at least for you to have the inner strength to survive, that is all" the miko replied confidently before getting up and motioning the other girl to do the same.
"They're looking for us, aren't they?"
Rei nodded as they ventured again into the vast forest of flora in the garden, this time leaving through where Ami had first entered the place. As predicted, they were met by several alarmed looking soldiers just outside the Palace entrance. The two girls entered but were stopped when they tried to continue up the steps to their respective rooms.
Luna and Artemis, in human form, appeared from the dining hall, both looking furious. "Where have you two been? The Queens and Princesses have been waiting to have breakfast for quite some time. This is very unbecoming of you. Come on then" the woman said ushering them towards the hall.
Ami blushed as she tried rearranging her tattered dress and messy hair "I...we haven't properly fixed ourselves. It will only take a moment..." she insisted nervously.
"That won't do. Come on then, we won't have them waiting any longer" Artemis demanded as he forcefully egged the two girls along.
"Ah! Princess Rei-chan, Princess Ami-chan, we're glad you've been found. We were getting worried. Please, come join us" Serenity said quite pleasantly from where she stood at the head of the table. The kind lady encouraged the two embarrassed princesses to take their places. They both bowed with half a smile and walked slowly towards the staring eyes. Saeko gave her daughter a scornful look as she took a seat next to her, Minako smiled on her other side. Facing her was Makoto who, unlike what she'd seen from her, would not give her a second glance. Rei sat next to the edgy brunette, she also couldn't control the uncomfortable nature of the reunion, especially since the seating was very unfortunate.
"If I may ask, assuming you two are apt to answer, where you have been?" the Mercurian queen questioned slyly, her anger slithering through every word.
Everyone seemed to recoil at this, the miko gave Ami a look, meaning since her mother asked then she should answer. The blue haired girl sighed, feeling every pair of eyes in the hall glaring at her "We were at the library, chatting and so on. Morning came to soon and we were careless with time. Forgive us" she whispered.
"Please don't lie, there is no harm in what you have done. Please be truthful, we should not keep secrets at this table" surprisingly Serenity said. She was kind but strict with her demand.
Rei shifted nervously "We then retreated to the garden to continue our conversation and like the Princess has said, we were careless with time." she explained calmly though she could feel Makoto's angered glare next to her.
"What were you two talking about?" Minako asked seemingly uninterested but was quite the opposite.
The moment to answer and avoid suspicion passed and it was Ami who reacted first "About the ball. We were talking about the ball and how...exciting and mysterious it all seems. I can't possibly imagine anyone thinking about anything else" she answered unevenly.
"It must have been a very heated conversation, yes?" Saeko challenged.
"Why would it be so?" Usagi commented intrigued, the food on her plate finally spared for a moment.
"Well, since we share no secrets at this table I believe it is appropriate for you to know how little my daughter thinks of your hospitality and the time the people of the Moon have invested in the party" - Saeko said without a single blink or twitch, not even Ami's pleading hand on her arm could stop her "My daughter found it either amusing to correct, I can't decide which is worse, to utterly destroy her precious gown on the eve of the ball" she finished. Humiliated as she was, the older woman could see no avail to end her daughter's recent rebellion. Perhaps disapproval from her peers could help.
No such taunt came except from Usagi who seemed selfishly involved in the problem. "Why would you do such a thing! I don't own a blue gown and I doubt they do either" - the blonde burst as she directed herself to Minako who seemed surprised by the reaction - "You'll embarrass us at the ball! What will you wear?" she protested in a very childish way, the outburst though rare coming from the cheerful and kind girl, could hardly be taken seriously. Still, it wasn't comforting either.
Ami wasn't so shaken up by it but instead faltered under Rei's suspicious and intolerant gaze. The genius was worried the priestess's stares and odd behavior would raise more questions.
Serenity took her daughter's hand with a severe grip "Calm down Usagi-chan. It had been taken care of. Fortunately a new gown has been ordered this morning and we have been assured it will be ready on time. We mustn't made it more of a problem than it is" she said giving her fellow queen a spiteful glare.
The silent warning went ignored. "Of course, there is the unfortunate possibility that it will not be properly constructed or adequately adorned due to the hurried nature of the order. Not to mention the high price I was forced to pay due to it's rush" Saeko unshamelessly retorted.
"I insist we forget the matter and enjoy ourselves" Serenity gently urged.
"I don't see the problem mother, the man I am being forced to marry will take me despite what I am wearing, be it a golden dress or a sack made of weave. I am nothing but a gift, the wrapping will be torn whether I like it or not. I wonder if your own wrapping mattered either" the blue haired girl challenged slyly.
"Ami-chan..." Rei warned.
"I'll have you know that I wed your father for the good of our people. Mercury rejoiced in a progressive and peaceful era because of it. You have a good memory so I believe you'll remember that each time you feel your tongue burning your mouth" the queen proudly and defiantly defended herself.
"And that magnificent man happened to abandon his daughter, wife and planet when he couldn't muster enough courage to protect his family. I hope for my sake my owner will carry heavier assets between his legs than my father did!" Ami barked, her once prudent hands in her lap were now pasted firmly on the edges of her chair.
"Oh my!" Minako yelped followed by an inappropriate giggle. She was met with a swift kick to the shin from Rei sitting in front of her. They could not begin bickering since a stronger discussion was already present.
"How dare you! You spit on the good name of your father and our planet! We wed and raised you so one day you could rule and have offspring of your own! These are pressing times, you are not at liberty to take your pick! Your fellow princesses have taken it upon themselves to do the right thing for the sake of the kingdom, why can't you? Things must be settled now for us to thrive again when this is over, how many times must I explain this to you?" the woman bellowed causing the table to shake.
"You forget that our war is not over yet! We haven't won and I don't see how we will!
Speaking of nonsense like weddings and offspring is not helping our cause and it certainly isn't making me more eager to fight, should it and it will come to it!" the furious Ami stood from her seat practically sending her chair flying feet away from her.
"Sit down!" Saeko demanded causing everyone to flinch.
The genius looked over at Rei who, despite being as jumpy as everyone else, gave her a knowing look which was returned with a subtle nod. "I will not. I have offended you and ruined the occasion, not to mention made everyone highly uncomfortable. Please forgive me, I will retire in the hope that you can salvage a bit of your reunion. Excuse me" With that Ami bowed and walked patiently to the open double doors of the hall without a single word uttered as she left. Once outside, she fled as fast as she could to her room, tears flying along her burning face.
"How awful! Perhaps I should go and speak with her, maybe one of my dark silver dresses will suit her?" Usagi commented after a long moment of silence.
Serenity heaved trying to regain patience "Not now Usagi-chan. You will leave Ami-chan alone, that goes as well for the rest of you" she ordered, certainly her famous yet rare temper was moments away from freeing itself. So, no one spoke another word.
The genius almost shattered her bedroom door when opening and slamming it closed. She launched herself into a furious search through her tidily arranged belongings. Once revered as a temple to organization and poise, her room was now a jumble of disarray, fragile items were flung carelessly as the girl continued to pry into every trunk, cabinet and hiding place she could. At last her feverish search ended as she triumphantly held out an old satchel she hardly remembered having. It contained very little; a vial of rotten juice from some plant, an old and broken microscope and what appeared to be an old booklet with child's drawings, this she kept.
She quickly regretted her impatient search when noticing the mess made, her precious jewels and items were hidden under piles of books, instruments and garments. With time no so much an issue, it was still quite early, Ami dove into the task at hand much more carefully and calmly. A soft knock on the door stopped her just as she had placed a very beautiful and exquisite necklace into the satchel.
"I have no desire to see you mother and I can't imagine why you would desire to see me. Leave me be until the time comes and I promise I will hold my tongue and walk proudly to my end. If you persist I will never leave this room, you'll have to knock down the door and drag me out kicking and screaming!" the blue haired princess cried from her side of her door.
"It would be a shame if it were to come to that. The whole business doesn't sit well with me either so perhaps we can barricade ourselves together?" Makoto's voice answered the recluse's demands.
Ami was surprised and almost relieved, she carefully opened the door and surely found the brunette grinning boyishly. She let her into the untidy room and walked to the far end of the place.
"I take it this isn't how you usually keep your room?" the tall girl tried humor.
"I'm sorry for what you witnessed earlier, I wasn't myself" the smaller girl said as she idly moved a single book from one place to another with no purpose.
"I know you weren't. Not that I presume to know you I just...it doesn't seem to be in your nature to lose control. It's seems like something I would do" Makoto chuckled as she tried to ease herself further into the room.
"How are you feeling? Have you healed? I can barely see a trace on your face" Ami quickly changed the subject.
The brunette place a hand on her once wounded skin "There's no going around it, I have to thank Maiestas. If it weren't for him I'd probably have to wear a veil to the ball" she unknowingly returned to the awkward subject.
"It wouldn't matter, your General would have to take you, scar or not"
"My General? It's sounds so silly. Nothing is certain yet and I'm sure he would have a say if I don't suit him which I don't think I will" Makoto said shrugging.
"How can you say such a thing? Any man would be lucky..." Ami began saying and stopped when she noticed the brunette was so much closer than before.
"And I'm sure you'll look lovely in whatever you wear..." the tall girl said kindly before gently cupping the small girl's face in her strong hand.
The contact shook Ami to her core, an unwanted desire to take Makoto in her arms rose in her like a heated fire. The deep, green eyes staring down at her were begging for further passion, further contact, anything. In her crazed want, the blue haired girl toyed with the idea of wildly spitting out the entire plan! Ignoring Rei's warnings and the promises she made, if she told the brunette everything they could run away together unafraid.
"Is something the matter?" Makoto asked, worried.
Rei's words, the entire conversation of that early morning, drifted into the smaller girl's mind until only doubt and relentless was left of her previous and oh so romantic plan. She reached for the brunette's hand and pulled it away "I'm fine. Excuse me but I have to tidy up and I have many things to do before the ball" she grunted before turning away.
"I could help if you'd like. I'm very good with things like this. I don't mind..."
·"But I do. Thank you, I'm best left to my own devices. I have much on my mind" Ami dismissed the other girl.
Makoto was silent as she stared at Ami's back. She wanted to continue but quickly thought otherwise "Alright, I'll be on my way. Good luck" she said hoarsely before stomping angrily out, not to mention slamming the door too harshly. Of course, she immediately regretted it.
Ami did not return to her task for quite awhile, instead, she stared in a zombie-like fashion out her window into the very blue and very beautiful sea. A sense of emptiness and abandon filled her with fear, she touched the place where Makoto's hand had been. She could still smell the scent of roses that the tall girl naturally produced which was so perfectly balancing with her masculine demeanor. These thoughts, like many others, would have to be erased and avoided from that moment on. The weak girl would have to use what little strength she had to complete and survive the life changing route she choice to take. And so, with that in mind, she returned to digging and scraping through her things for anything that would help her along the way.
"Your highness, please understand, they are still children! With time they will learn to live and prosper with the honorable generals of Earth. Once their youthful whims of love and passion disappear they will more than happily oblige to their duties and the promises of a peaceful future for the kingdom" Maiestas presented his case with enthusiasm and confidence.
Serenity doubted this and her face showed it "These are different times than those you are used to old man. This is the age of women and I fear many don't and won't understand it. Unhappy queen's will not make good rulers, especially if they are in battle with their husbands behind closed doors. It affects the way they rule and the people can notice. I only hope these men have the same virtue and kindness as the Prince and hopefully they will enamor the princesses as he has my daughter" she said from her spot on a chair in her enormous room. Next to her, Saeko laughed.
"That's all very good for you my friend, your daughter would give her life for the Prince. The stars have practically aligned themselves for those two. The heavens have not been so kind to all of us, I should know and soon my daughter will as well"
the Mercurian queen said solemnly.
"Chance has been good to me and my daughter, no stars or heavens need to assist. We were lucky and that is all. They haven't met yet, perhaps fortune will also smile on the guardians and they may share a lifetime of happiness. I only say this to please you because to say nothing would be rude and to say what is probable is tasteless, I leave that to scientists like you" Serenity said carefully, considering Maiestas was, as always, lurking and interrupting private matters.
"We are not all tasteless, I for one, am quite keen when it comes to fine etiquette and proper behavior. I`ll leave you highnesses to discuss what I should not hear" the old man was quick to excuse himself after being so politely urged to leave.
In the safety of her room, Serenity finally spoke freely "How worried are you? You don't...you don't think she'll do something drastic, do you?" she asked carefully.
"I presume, which is all I can do at the moment, that she'll make a terribly quiet and boring wife at the beginning of the compromise but as time will go on she'll open up and show her wonderful self in full and that...will be when they'll fall in love. I just hope General Zoisite is a patient and good man" Saeko answered not completely truthfully.
The silver haired queen noticed this but preferred not to push it "So, that is your final word of it I take it" she said quietly.
"I know what you must think of me but I don't have a choice. She must rule with power in the kingdom. Mercury cannot disappear as it has before, my planet must be heard and proclaim it's place in the system. A Terran king on Mercury in a terran empire will see to it that we are protected as well as our people. Ami must grow up and become the woman it takes to be a queen. Unfortunately my love must be demonstrated in much crueler ways than I would've liked" Saeko admitted as a form of forgiveness for the way she had been acting towards her daughter.
"And Makoto-chan? Do you believe the engagement will keep them apart?"
"You know I've never taken those mystics seriously. Dreams are as reliable as throwing chicken bones. It's nonsense for the ignorant and hopeless"
"I can still remember you worrying yourself only a few days ago over the mystic's dream. I suppose such things in the mind of the rational are quickly dismissed?" Serenity asked slyly with a mocking grin.
Saeko, for the first time that day, smiled "I wouldn't be rational if they didn't would I? You may call a cat a fish, but it will not swim" she retorted.
"I believe the cat is a dream and the fish is reality?"
"As you like. It's something I like to remind myself every now and then. You maybe should as well, along with that insane mystic of yours".
Rei, in a very secretive and caution fashion, carefully opened her door which had moments before been shyly tapped on. Outside stood a very nervous looking Ami holding her satchel firmly to her breast. She was motioned in in haste, the miko checking the corridor one last time to ensure no one was watching.
"We don't have much time to go over this. They're already beginning to heat the bath in Minako-chan's room" Rei informed as she took the satchel and shook it, pleased with the rattling of fine metal.
"How do you know?" Ami asked curiously and a bit nervously since her mother was undoubtedly readying herself to glamour up her daughter.
The priestess was taken aback making her blush "I...I occasionally looked out to see if you were coming, I was getting worried after lunch had been served and you hadn't shown up" she quickly reversed the topic.
"I thought it safer when everyone is busy, they only have a few hours left of natural light and I was sure they'd take that very much into account"
"A good thought indeed. Have you spoken to anyone?"
The genius hesitated but quickly recovered "I have not. The only people I've seen were the maids who brought me my food and they were anything but vocal" she said convincingly. Whether Rei believed her or not, with the power she possessed, was a mystery.
"What about your clothes? You did bring a change of clothes, right?" the miko inquired as she looked over every inch of the blue haired girl and could find nothing.
"It's in the satchel. It's the most practical things I could find"
Rei looked at the small bag and blinked repeatedly "In this? You could barely fit one boot in here! It won't do. Don't you own proper riding attire?" she questioned quite stunned.
Ami lowered her eyes in shame "I'm sorry, I should've told you before. I don't know how to ride. My father would've taught me but...he left. I understand if..."
"Nonsense. You'll just have to trust me even more then. It's easy once you get accustomed to it. If there was ever a better time to learn it would be now" the miko reassured very kindly. The genius smiled gratefully and felt extremely well being treated this way by temperamental and antisocial princess. Surely, something had changed her.
"I'll do as you say..."
"I hope so. Listen, I'll look around quickly and surely I'll find something adequate for you to wear. That gives us less time so you'll have clear your mind now. I expect it'll be an hour once were in the hall until the Generals show up. We'll be stationed on the eastern side of the hall..."
"Where the earth will shine directly down on the guests and over to us once the Generals arrive..." Ami interjected knowingly.
"Yes. We'll be the last one's they introduce themselves to so that's the moment we disappear. There is a service entrance just below the main staircase where royalty arrives from, there's no doubt since we will walk down from it. Anyway, the service door is unused except for masons who once a year reenforce the heavy staircase. We'll be close enough to it to easily escape once all eyes are on the guests. We'll come out to the servants housing, just three buildings from the stalls. The men who are usually positioned there will be tending to the guests horses. Our satchels will be waiting for us there, I'll explain later how so please don't worry. We'll take our transport and ease ourselves carefully to the outskirts of the castle where the wheat is grown. There's no walls stopping there so that will be our freedom. Have you got it?" Rei quickly but concisely explained.
"it's sounds so...easy"
"Well it won't be so when I tell you, we're off. Alright? No looking back, yes?"
Ami nodded in full agreement.
"Then it's settled. You best be going now, you're mother will be furious if she discovers you've gone missing again. Go on, carefully, don't be seen" Rei instructed as she drove the blue haired girl into an apparently empty corridor. Thankfully her mother appeared just as she had reached her door.
"I believe your bath is ready. Take your time and be sure to clean thoroughly. We have many things to prepare for and hopefully the gown will look nicer on you than it does lying on your bed" Saeko said as she approached her daughter, treading behind her was Maiestas.
"I see the dog follows its master" Ami said ruefully as she glared at the man.
"Nothing doing my lady, I'm simply going to tend to my princess as a proper guardian should" the wicked man replied calmly as he set to open Rei's door, of coarse it was locked.
"Forget him. Come along now" the queen said as she ushered Ami into her room, the bangs and complaints coming from Maiestas demanding to enter his princesses room could still be heard from inside.
The genius could barely hear her mother's words or even consider the gown as the cries continued, it was when they ceased that her surroundings finally set in. That man was capable of anything and no heavy oak door was going to stop him.
Inside her steamed filled bathroom, alone and ignoring her guardian's patient advice coming from the other side of the door, Minako held her dried knees against her chest and cried, her shallow heaves and shaking body causing the water around her return to her in small waves.
"Please Minako-chan! You've been in there long enough. The heat will dry your skin and you'll look like a prune!" Artemis cried as he banged the door again.
"I'm coming! I'll be out in a moment!" the blonde cried trying to keep her voice as even as possible though the back of her throat was stinging from grief. Her heart sank deeper as the sun outside the window became less radiant and a darkening sky roved over. She cursed under her breath as time she would've preferred spent with Rei was no longer a possibility.
"Come on then! You'll get ill if you continue! You haven't got all of your strength back yet! Do me this favor and come out!" the man pleaded.
"Yes Artemis, I'm coming!" Minako shouted back still whimpering and finally got out of the tub. She covered herself and looked in the mirror. Her eyes were puffy and red, there was no way around it. Wiping her tears away, she decided a big false smile would have to please her guardian since it was all she could offer at the moment. At least the weather was beginning to show how empathetic it was to her.
"Strange business it is, the skies I mean. Doesn't seem like the Prince and his Generals will receive the proper welcoming they deserve. I hope you haven't got anything to do with it my lady, if you don't mind me saying so" a plump middle-aged maid said jokingly as she finished shaping Makoto's nails into decent form. It was true, the weather was growing worse by the minute, thunder was rolling in the distance where the sun no longer shined. Rain could be expected or at least a very cold wind which would make the festivities less than perfect.
The brunette chuckled "I wish I had such power. I don't believe the terrans will be troubled by it though. I'm more worried about the outcome of the ball" she said inspecting her very elegant fingers. It had been a long time since they looked so feminine.
"That shouldn't worry you in the least my lady. You are a very beautiful young lady, you will make an excellent bride! General Nephrite is a very lucky man" the maid quipped in.
"A bride! My mother use to say that I could only be a good wife if I married a eunuch! Or at least a man a strong as my father and even then..."
"Oh my! I can't imagine such a thing! I do hope for your sake and his as well that it is not true! You'll grow out of such notions, I do believe so my lady"
"I hope you are right. I also hope that is all the growing I'll be doing for now" Makoto said as she stood and revealed her already apparent size. She towered over most people on the Moon, men were not pleased. She slowly began stripping, aware it would not be pleasant.
"The men from Earth are much taller than those on the Moon. You have a good, healthy body to bear children, he'll be most pleased with that" the maid said as she removed the last layer of clothing. Her gasp did not go unheard as she naturally took a step back.
"He'll have a very unwelcome surprise I'm afraid" - the brunette said as her hand caressed the ghastly scar under her left breast, though fully healed, it was no prized gift to any man - "...he shall have to forget it's there or be done with me after our fourth child" she added jokingly.
"I'm sorry lady I completely forgot! He will still be a very lucky man! A strong woman like yourself is so rare and extraordinary!" the woman cried drastically and in obvious dismay for reacting so peasant-like.
Makoto smiled and motioned the woman to calm down "It's alright, you needn't comfort me. I have many fine qualities that, if the man is worthy, will surely overpower such a flaw. And if not, I will make it rain until the end of my days" she said sadly over a fierce rolling of thunder.
"You're not planning on running away, are you?" Maiestas's chilling voice rang from one of the many deceivingly dark corners of the room.
Rei jumped, the satchel in her hand fell noisily to the ground. She turned valiantly, despite the scare, to confront the man "You have no right invading my privacy like this! The Queen will know of this treachery!" she menaced as she kicked the satchel further out of sight.
"Forgive me, I am simply conducting my duties as a guardian and since you were less than willing to allow me in I was forced to find other ways. I do apologize greatly but the time of the ball grows closer" he explained wickedly.
Rei gave herself a quick glance, she had been well taught to groom and dress on her own "I don't see why a grimy man as yourself could possibly be of assistance in a task like this" she questioned smoothly.
"You're correct. It seems you have made yourself look perfectly ravishing without the help of anyone. Alas, I am in charge of making sure you are presentable and staying out of trouble. Tonight is very, very important. I see you've prepared a kind of traveling bag. You're not planning on eloping with General Jadeite, are you? Or perhaps he's not in your plan, hmm?" Maiestas tempted as he strolled around the room, picking up and putting back down wayward items.
"You're out of your mind, all you do is provoke and cause trouble. Such a proposition is considered treason and your remarks as well, be very careful old man!" the miko threatened.
Her guardian continued his tiptoeing "I will not speak a word of it, should it turn out to be true. The terms have been settled. Should you decide to say...disappear, I will remain sole bearer of political power for the Martian cause. General Jadeite will represent your planet as an alliance between the kingdoms. His place as high consul will go untouched with or without you. It would be a very rare and determining situation, should it come to it. But, with enough time and your prolonged disappearance, it would be inevitable. So please my princess, worry no longer, my lips are iron sealed" he finished cunningly.
"You, you, you wicked old man! How dare you! I'll have you know...!"
"It's quite alright..." - Maiestas interrupted loudly - "I'll let myself out. I'll come get you in due time" he added before leaving the room.
Rei panicked and furiously looked around for any device or holes meant for spying. The man could've heard from wherever he had been able to enter the room. But it was impossible! She would have known! She would have felt it!
"No, she wouldn't..." the priestess said to herself as she continued to poke through the corners of the room. Her wavy, red, silk gown went unnoticed as she scraped the floor searching, the hem of her wide sleeves practically wiped the dust filled ground as she kneeled and looked under the bed. Shaking her head and noticing how tattered her attire was, she got up and leaned heavily against her bedside table.
A caw from her balcony returned Rei to the present. Two very large crows had landed on the ledge, patiently waiting to be instructed. Time was pressing. A decision she had already made was now hanging loosely in her mind. Should she trust herself to trust that Maiestas would not say a word? It was true, it would make no difference to him, in fact, he'd be better off! And what about Ami? Had she deceived her and told the wicked man of their plans? They were both Mercurians, he is her mother's right hand. Perhaps it would be best to cancel and forget the whole thing. How horrible could marrying this man be?
"No. Ami is good and loyal. And this man, General Jadeite, he's..." Rei could not help but feel danger when she thought of the idea of him. There was no physical evidence, no whispers in the wind, that this person, whom when thought of caused alertness, could possibly be as terrible as she constantly foresaw. And yes, there was always the possibility that her resistance towards the marriage was so fierce that it clouded her rational mind, making it hard to distinguish truth in her predictions and self righteous freedom. Both reasons made her purge, in any case.
"There's no sense wasting more time" Rei said to the two birds outside. She took her satchel and handed it to one of the crows which, despite it's size, took it easily in it's beak. "Go on Phobos!" she instructed with the wave of a hand and the large bird flew off. The other stared at her curiously.
The priestess returned inside and looked down at Ami's satchel. She hesitated, much longer than she should have. Unlike with Jadeite, she could not feel a single thing towards her blue haired friend. Should she trust the princess, one who could have weakly fallen into her own cowardice and in the grip of her overpowering mother? Or, was Ami just as asphyxiated as she was?
Again, a soft caw tore her away from her thoughts. With a sigh, Rei took the satchel and gave it to the crow awaiting her. "Go on Deimos!" she waved the animal away as it took flight in the direction of its brother who could still be seen flying in the distance.
"Kami help me if I have chosen without wisdom" she silently prayed. A sudden shock to the brain hit Rei as it had before. A vision of hellish flames, a sword, heirloom of Martian royalty seeped blood, a hand so much like her own held the weapon mercilessly as the flames licked at the glimmering red substance. Once again, she foresaw a fearful future. And this man, Jadeite the general, was undoubtedly the one to blame.
Rei leaned over the balcony watching the sun almost set. The palace's lights began growing from left to right and up to the dome where the sphere was filled with even and beautiful flames. The presence of so much fire made her feel better, more so than she had in the entire day. The two large torches on both her sides of the balcony lit up, the candles in her room as well. It still amazed the priestess to see the witch-like magic that the Palace produced. Back home it would have brought much displeasure to toy so freely with the elements. Pride and fondness of her planet swelled in her heart with nothing much left from it except the gown she wore, her mother`s, which could only be seen on Mars.
Lunar soldiers were now beginning to align themselves around the Mare Serenitatis where light and fire also danced against the waves. Several large flags, including the Martian one, were being hoisted into long poles erected in the sand. the Moon's was probably hanging high and much larger on the dome's peak directly above her. There was no doubt about it, the Moon Palace was definitely the system's prize and envy. Across the distance of the sea, Rei could see a fleet of no less than a dozen ships, different and larger than the one's she had grown up with, submerge themselves gently onto the watery waves and be taken by the winds towards her. The time had come and she dreaded it.
Maiestas hummed to himself as he walked along the rows of tables in the Great Hall. His fingers brushed the silk cloth where plates trimmed with gold were being slowly placed. On the opposite side, divided by a very large empty space in the enormous hall, Proditor the soldier crept in between the tables fitted on his side. The old man gave the young a slight nod and the two met in the center of the place.
"They've only left about a hundred or so soldiers to guard the villages up north. The south is practically fair game. C´orse, the palace is impossible to get in or out of" the Jovian man informed.
Maiestas looked around suspiciously, the people around him were so busy decorating the place that they failed to notice the strange meeting. "Hm. Sounds right. What of the Mare?" he inquired much too closely,
Proditor made a face due to the stench of the smaller man's breath, it went ignored because of his height "Surrounded. The terrans have brought about twelve ships no less. Seems like much , don't you reckon?" he said through his rough accent .
"Not at all. The terran men arriving this night are the last hope the Earth or even this kingdom have against the Queen Beryl. I should say twelve ships seems little for the event"
The soldier grunted "Don't seem like they're very manly if they need so much protection. What about the princesses, eh? I thought they were suppose to fight or save us or whatever they do. Can't be of much use though, the little girls" he said with a seductive glint in his eyes.
"Don't be so fast to dismiss them, they have powers much stronger than you can imagine. You'll be surprised" - Maiestas said with a malevolent grin - "I have one more task to ask of you" he said before taking Proditor's head, much to his distaste, and pulling him down as close to his own as possible - "I have noticed that for some unknown reason people tend to forget you or they don't notice you are even there. You are very forgettable I'm afraid. Nevertheless, this fact helps our cause. I want you to lock every door or entrance to the Hall once everyone is inside, yes?" he instructed calmly.
"That won't do. Why would you want to do a thing like that?" the soldier asked as she distanced himself from smelly man.
Obviously the brute man wasn't meant to know more than a child should, Maiestas smiled reassuringly "It is just for precaution. With such a delicate event take place I simply thought it best if people weren't coming in and going out, causing unnecessary noise and movement. Do as you're told and once you're done you may go up to your tower where you'll find the things that please you most. Can I trust you with this simple duty?" he asked kindly a yet with a sinister tone.
"Seems easy enough. You enjoy yourself at your fancy party, I'll be havin´a better time anyway" Proditor said bitterly since he'd been ordered away like a dog.
"You act like a woman! Get back to your post and be ready to lock all doors, the main entrance you lock from the outside and you'll be relieved to your obscene room. Don't give me that look, I can't imagine what pig-like things you do in there, go on!" Maiestas parted ways with the soldier as he glided importantly towards the guest table. Being the man that he was, he saw no fault in pulling the tablecloth causing everything on it to fall and shatter. The servants stood shocked.
"Go on! Pick it up and make it again!" he bark the order before leaving with a very wide and disturbing grin.
AN:
Long time, I know! The chapter is actually 40 pages long so I decided to divide it! I'll update very soon when I finish but meanwhile I hope it's enjoyable. I'm not a fan of Author's notes but such a long and interesting chapter seems fit. I can't really apologize for anything since it's my story and I felt happy writing it. Although, I do feel bad and a little worried for OOC`s. My only excuse is that I imagine the Silver Millennium as a kind of misogynistic realm but in the powerful moment of change. Bored already? me too! Read and Review!