Plum Blossoming
Chapter 2 - A Bond Forms
By: Lady Crescent Moon
Standard Disclaimers Apply
AN: This story is taken from a Chinese movie series, called "mei hua san nong"(pinyin, for those of you who know what it means...). I'm not taking any credit for the creation of this story but it's so good that I decided to make a Serena/Darien fanfic out of it. Some parts might be changed, however. I decided to fill in, add, or change the story so that it made more sense to the story of Sailor Moon. Please bear with me if it doesn't make sense... ^.^
AN2: In the beginning it might be kind of confusing but try to follow along. It'll be better later on in the story.
AN3: "the instrument" is referred to one that comes from China. I really have no idea what the English translation of it is so I will just stick with "the instrument." I'm sorry that it sounds so funky but it'll have to do.
AN4: In order to corporate "mei hua san nong" into a Sailor Moon universe, I have to adapt many things. Just think of it as a weird alternate reality.
AN5: indicates thoughts
If you haven't noticed, these messages are the same, each chapter...I'm too lazy to type up new ones! ^-^;;
Chapter 2 - A Bond Forms
~eight years later~
"Papa! What do you think of this place? Do you think they would let us sing here?" Serena suggested, her eyes filled with hope.
She had grown to be a beautiful woman, with long blond hair and a slim yet curvaceous body. Men whistled as they walked past her to show their appreciation for her but she went on, but she had no idea those stares and whistles were for her.
Kenji, now an old man with graying hair and beard, stopped at the restaurant she was pointing at. On a sign they had beside the door, it said every day there was live entertainment and Serena thought it would be a great place to sing at.
"Ah, why not? It can't hurt to try."
They walked into a loud restaurant, already filled with noisy customers ready for lunch.
"Can we talk to the manager?" Kenji asked one of the servers.
A middle-aged man came out. "You looking for me?" he asked them, without much kindness.
"Yes, we are. We were wondering if we could perhaps perform here. We don't need any payment, just food and shelter in exchange," Serena said, hoping he would say yes. They were running out of options. Money was scarce these days, which was evident with the amount of money they had left.
The old man thought about it for a second but turned them down. "We already have entertainers. Be careful on your way out," he said, barely giving them a second glance.
"Wait! Please, mister. Just give us a chance. If you don't like us or if we give you bad business, we'll gladly go. But if we give you business, then we must get food and shelter. In exchange, we'll sing for you. That is all that we ask for," Serena said.
He thought about it for a while longer, actually taking the time to consider his options. "Well, I guess. I can give you a couple days to try it out and see how it goes. There is a house in the back. Edward here will show you the way."
The manager nodded to a server, who was standing nearby. He took them to small cottage in the back, one that wasn't furnished very well. It was obviously for the use of servants for no nobles would ever consider residing in a dinky place like that for even a night.
"This is it," he said to them. "By the way...my name is Melvin. If you need any assistance, I would be glad to help." He bid them farewell and started back to the main hall, where the customers were.
The two were allowed to settle for a short while before they were called to perform. They were brought out to the main hall, where there was an open space in the middle, which was just right for the two of them. They took what they could, with thanks.
The sun shone brightly outside, a glorious but blustery day. The inside was hot, however, with human warmth heating up the place. It was busy and loud, filled with customers wanting their lunch.
Kenji picked up his instrument and began playing it. Serena waited for her cue, and began singing, softly at first then got louder and stronger. It was a song that her mother had taught her, a song that she loved and enjoyed. She sang so beautifully that others actually stopped eating to listen to her singing. The manager saw the reaction of his customers and he loved it. He was certain that the pair would bring in more money.
Days continued on slowly but surely, with no mishaps or incidents. They sang ate in the early morning and sang into the night, taking only occasional breaks. It was hard work but the father and daughter performed, with no complaints. They were doing what they loved, and even had food and shelter. To them, life was good.
Darien was tired and hungry. He wanted to take a break from all the commotion outside. "Come on, Malachite. Let's get some food. And then we can go back to the palace. I just want to rest a while," Darien said.
Jadeite readily agreed with Darien but he didn't dare say anything for he knew that Malachite would chastise him when Darien was not paying attention.
Malachite was several years older than Darien and much more solemn and serious. He had very light blond hair but it looked silverfish-white more times than blond. He was a general of the Kingdom, but he was also Darien's personal bodyguard, protecting and watching out for the Prince when he needed it. He watched Darien grow up and had attached a bond with him. He would give his life for the prince, not only because it was his duty, but also because he loved him in his own way, as a father would love his son. Jadeite was about the same age as Darien but he was much more playful and lighthearted, the direct antithesis of Malachite. He had wavy sandy blond hair. He grew up with Darien and the two were best friends even if he was only a servant to his prince.
The three walked into the restaurant, eager for some good food and entertainment. They were immediately brought to the upper level of the restaurant, where there were private rooms available for the higher officials and more prestigious (in other words, rich! $_$) customers.
Darien sat down in his room, waiting for a manservant to come in with his the food that he ordered. He was hungry and thirsty from his journey and he needed to satiate his appetite. Malachite and Jadeite were sure to be hungry as well. A young servant came in quickly. He set the dishes down, bowed, and left the room as quietly and swiftly as he had entered.
The three men seated and were about to eat when they heard a beautiful voice. Soft, harmonious, and sweet, she sang without nervousness or fear. Enraptured by the music, he went to the balcony, disregarding the delicious smells wafting from the food. He stood, watching the girl with the large blue eyes and flowing blond hair. Malachite and Jadeite looked at Darien and then each other, not believing that a lowly entertainer would capture the resilient Darien.
A pompous officer of the government walked into the restaurant, showing off his wealth and power. The manager eagerly offered his assistance, groveling at his feet.
"Lord Alexander, anything you need, anything at all, just let me know. I would be ever so happy to help," he said, while bowing down lowly to show his "respect."
Waving the servant away with contempt, the Lord replied, "Just show me a good room and lots of wine." Walking to the stairs that led up to the private rooms, Alexander saw Serena. She was singing wonderfully and he wanted her for himself, not only for the singing, but for other reasons as well. (AN: *ahem*...I really don't think I need to explain it any further)
He walked over to her confident that she wouldn't reject him. After all, he was a high government official. No one would dare to refuse him! He stopped in front of her, pleased with her beauty. He would have an enjoyable evening tonight, he thought to himself, grinning almost maliciously.
"Come," he bade her. "I'll have you for the evening."
"Ex-excuse me? I'm not quite sure I understand, my lord," Serena replied shakily. Her eyes widened in fear when she suddenly understood, seeing the intent in his eyes. "No...I'm just a lowly servant; an entertainer of music. Please, my lord..."
He motioned with his hand for his guards. They came forth, grabbing her and pushing her up the stairs. She screamed, wishing that this were a dream.
With panic, her father stood up, yelling for them to stop. He feebly fought back but they were much too strong. "Help, someone, please! Don't let them take my daughter!"
The manager stepped forward, but not with any intentions of helping. "Don't worry. Your daughter is lucky to have caught Lord Alexander's attentions, old man. Let her be."
The patrons stood back, watching the incident unfold. They didn't dare to say or do anything, for fear of the lord's wrath.
Serena struggled, praying that they would change their minds and release her. "No, no! Please!" She screamed, as they pushed her forward from the corridor into his room. "No!"
Darien, unable to hold himself back anymore, went to her aid. In a flurry of movements, he had knocked over the henchmen and was doing the same to the oncoming men. Serena stood in the corner, quivering in fear. She hoped that her dashing hero would not be inflicted of any pain, for she would not be able to bear the guilt. After all, it would be her fault, wouldn't it?
Furious and affronted, Alexander faced the offending man. "How dare you! Do you know who I am? I am Lord Alexander! I will have you thrown into the dungeons for this!" he exclaimed, not knowing Darien's true identity.
Darien's jaw ticked erratically, anger flowing throughout his veins. "I'm Prince Darien of the royal family. For your depraved and immoral behavior towards this young lady, I shall see to it that you are heavily punished," Darien threatened, disgusted at the poor excuse of a man in front of him. He had half a mind to beat him beyond recognition and then some but decided with better judgment not to. Instead, he swung back and punched Alexander in the eye.
Cowering in trepidation and pain, he exclaimed, "Prince Darien!" Who would have imagined finding someone of such noble blood in a base, commoner-filled restaurant? Instead of surrendering, he grabbed Serena and threw her towards him, in hope that he could run away in the time that Darien recovered from the mild shock.
Serena screamed as she was thrown against a hand muscled wall. He steadied her with a warm and gentle hand, afraid that he was going cause more harm to come to her.
Opening her closed eyes after she was steadied, peered into her blue cerulean eyes. She gasped and backed away, realizing that it was Prince Darien who had saved her from a life of ultimate disgust and guilt.
He stared back into her sky blue eyes, momentarily forgetting about Lord Alexander and his offense. "Are alright?" he asked softly, not wanting to startle the gentle creature.
"Yes, my lord. Thank you saving my life. I don't know how I could ever repay you," Serena said and curtsied nervously.
By then, Kenji appeared upstairs, breaking the spell that had woven itself around the two. "Prince Darien, thank you for saving my daughter, Serena. My life is in your debt."
"No need," Darien said graciously. "I am just glad that I was here."
Frustrated shouts reached up to their ears. "Who is going to pay for the damages here?" The manager demanded when they reached downstairs. "You," he pointed to Serena. "You're the caused of all this."
Serena mutely surveyed the damages "she" had wreaked and felt guilty pangs. "I'm very sorry," she said almost inaudibly. "I'll pay for this somehow. I promise, I will.
Darien took pity at the beautiful girl standing in front of him. "I will pay. It was mostly my fault, after all." Taking several gold coins out of his pouch, he asked, " Will this be enough to cover it?"
"Oh my prince, this is more than enough," he said but made no move to return the extra coins.
"Are you sure you'll be alright?" he repeated, the epitome of gentlemanliness. Bowing her head to show her respects, she softly replied yes.
Jadeite and Malachite rushed down the stairs. "My lord! You should have left the menial tasks to us!" Their incessant nagging followed him as he regally walked out, a certain blond maiden named Serena stuck in his head.
Serena's eyes followed him, her heart fluttering as she thought of her handsome prince.
"Serena, you are still young and naïve. I don't want to disappoint you but he is a noble prince. He's not for the likes of us," Kenji said wisely but gently, for fear that his daughter had already developed a tender for him.
"Of course, papa. I never thought otherwise," she said, trying ever so hard to cover her disappointment. Her father was right. A prince like him would never pay any more attention than necessary. She quietly started picking up the scattered dishes and food that reminded her of the terrifying earlier incident, while her father looked at her, almost worriedly.
Chapter 2 - A Bond Forms
By: Lady Crescent Moon
Standard Disclaimers Apply
AN: This story is taken from a Chinese movie series, called "mei hua san nong"(pinyin, for those of you who know what it means...). I'm not taking any credit for the creation of this story but it's so good that I decided to make a Serena/Darien fanfic out of it. Some parts might be changed, however. I decided to fill in, add, or change the story so that it made more sense to the story of Sailor Moon. Please bear with me if it doesn't make sense... ^.^
AN2: In the beginning it might be kind of confusing but try to follow along. It'll be better later on in the story.
AN3: "the instrument" is referred to one that comes from China. I really have no idea what the English translation of it is so I will just stick with "the instrument." I'm sorry that it sounds so funky but it'll have to do.
AN4: In order to corporate "mei hua san nong" into a Sailor Moon universe, I have to adapt many things. Just think of it as a weird alternate reality.
AN5: indicates thoughts
If you haven't noticed, these messages are the same, each chapter...I'm too lazy to type up new ones! ^-^;;
Chapter 2 - A Bond Forms
~eight years later~
"Papa! What do you think of this place? Do you think they would let us sing here?" Serena suggested, her eyes filled with hope.
She had grown to be a beautiful woman, with long blond hair and a slim yet curvaceous body. Men whistled as they walked past her to show their appreciation for her but she went on, but she had no idea those stares and whistles were for her.
Kenji, now an old man with graying hair and beard, stopped at the restaurant she was pointing at. On a sign they had beside the door, it said every day there was live entertainment and Serena thought it would be a great place to sing at.
"Ah, why not? It can't hurt to try."
They walked into a loud restaurant, already filled with noisy customers ready for lunch.
"Can we talk to the manager?" Kenji asked one of the servers.
A middle-aged man came out. "You looking for me?" he asked them, without much kindness.
"Yes, we are. We were wondering if we could perhaps perform here. We don't need any payment, just food and shelter in exchange," Serena said, hoping he would say yes. They were running out of options. Money was scarce these days, which was evident with the amount of money they had left.
The old man thought about it for a second but turned them down. "We already have entertainers. Be careful on your way out," he said, barely giving them a second glance.
"Wait! Please, mister. Just give us a chance. If you don't like us or if we give you bad business, we'll gladly go. But if we give you business, then we must get food and shelter. In exchange, we'll sing for you. That is all that we ask for," Serena said.
He thought about it for a while longer, actually taking the time to consider his options. "Well, I guess. I can give you a couple days to try it out and see how it goes. There is a house in the back. Edward here will show you the way."
The manager nodded to a server, who was standing nearby. He took them to small cottage in the back, one that wasn't furnished very well. It was obviously for the use of servants for no nobles would ever consider residing in a dinky place like that for even a night.
"This is it," he said to them. "By the way...my name is Melvin. If you need any assistance, I would be glad to help." He bid them farewell and started back to the main hall, where the customers were.
The two were allowed to settle for a short while before they were called to perform. They were brought out to the main hall, where there was an open space in the middle, which was just right for the two of them. They took what they could, with thanks.
The sun shone brightly outside, a glorious but blustery day. The inside was hot, however, with human warmth heating up the place. It was busy and loud, filled with customers wanting their lunch.
Kenji picked up his instrument and began playing it. Serena waited for her cue, and began singing, softly at first then got louder and stronger. It was a song that her mother had taught her, a song that she loved and enjoyed. She sang so beautifully that others actually stopped eating to listen to her singing. The manager saw the reaction of his customers and he loved it. He was certain that the pair would bring in more money.
Days continued on slowly but surely, with no mishaps or incidents. They sang ate in the early morning and sang into the night, taking only occasional breaks. It was hard work but the father and daughter performed, with no complaints. They were doing what they loved, and even had food and shelter. To them, life was good.
Darien was tired and hungry. He wanted to take a break from all the commotion outside. "Come on, Malachite. Let's get some food. And then we can go back to the palace. I just want to rest a while," Darien said.
Jadeite readily agreed with Darien but he didn't dare say anything for he knew that Malachite would chastise him when Darien was not paying attention.
Malachite was several years older than Darien and much more solemn and serious. He had very light blond hair but it looked silverfish-white more times than blond. He was a general of the Kingdom, but he was also Darien's personal bodyguard, protecting and watching out for the Prince when he needed it. He watched Darien grow up and had attached a bond with him. He would give his life for the prince, not only because it was his duty, but also because he loved him in his own way, as a father would love his son. Jadeite was about the same age as Darien but he was much more playful and lighthearted, the direct antithesis of Malachite. He had wavy sandy blond hair. He grew up with Darien and the two were best friends even if he was only a servant to his prince.
The three walked into the restaurant, eager for some good food and entertainment. They were immediately brought to the upper level of the restaurant, where there were private rooms available for the higher officials and more prestigious (in other words, rich! $_$) customers.
Darien sat down in his room, waiting for a manservant to come in with his the food that he ordered. He was hungry and thirsty from his journey and he needed to satiate his appetite. Malachite and Jadeite were sure to be hungry as well. A young servant came in quickly. He set the dishes down, bowed, and left the room as quietly and swiftly as he had entered.
The three men seated and were about to eat when they heard a beautiful voice. Soft, harmonious, and sweet, she sang without nervousness or fear. Enraptured by the music, he went to the balcony, disregarding the delicious smells wafting from the food. He stood, watching the girl with the large blue eyes and flowing blond hair. Malachite and Jadeite looked at Darien and then each other, not believing that a lowly entertainer would capture the resilient Darien.
A pompous officer of the government walked into the restaurant, showing off his wealth and power. The manager eagerly offered his assistance, groveling at his feet.
"Lord Alexander, anything you need, anything at all, just let me know. I would be ever so happy to help," he said, while bowing down lowly to show his "respect."
Waving the servant away with contempt, the Lord replied, "Just show me a good room and lots of wine." Walking to the stairs that led up to the private rooms, Alexander saw Serena. She was singing wonderfully and he wanted her for himself, not only for the singing, but for other reasons as well. (AN: *ahem*...I really don't think I need to explain it any further)
He walked over to her confident that she wouldn't reject him. After all, he was a high government official. No one would dare to refuse him! He stopped in front of her, pleased with her beauty. He would have an enjoyable evening tonight, he thought to himself, grinning almost maliciously.
"Come," he bade her. "I'll have you for the evening."
"Ex-excuse me? I'm not quite sure I understand, my lord," Serena replied shakily. Her eyes widened in fear when she suddenly understood, seeing the intent in his eyes. "No...I'm just a lowly servant; an entertainer of music. Please, my lord..."
He motioned with his hand for his guards. They came forth, grabbing her and pushing her up the stairs. She screamed, wishing that this were a dream.
With panic, her father stood up, yelling for them to stop. He feebly fought back but they were much too strong. "Help, someone, please! Don't let them take my daughter!"
The manager stepped forward, but not with any intentions of helping. "Don't worry. Your daughter is lucky to have caught Lord Alexander's attentions, old man. Let her be."
The patrons stood back, watching the incident unfold. They didn't dare to say or do anything, for fear of the lord's wrath.
Serena struggled, praying that they would change their minds and release her. "No, no! Please!" She screamed, as they pushed her forward from the corridor into his room. "No!"
Darien, unable to hold himself back anymore, went to her aid. In a flurry of movements, he had knocked over the henchmen and was doing the same to the oncoming men. Serena stood in the corner, quivering in fear. She hoped that her dashing hero would not be inflicted of any pain, for she would not be able to bear the guilt. After all, it would be her fault, wouldn't it?
Furious and affronted, Alexander faced the offending man. "How dare you! Do you know who I am? I am Lord Alexander! I will have you thrown into the dungeons for this!" he exclaimed, not knowing Darien's true identity.
Darien's jaw ticked erratically, anger flowing throughout his veins. "I'm Prince Darien of the royal family. For your depraved and immoral behavior towards this young lady, I shall see to it that you are heavily punished," Darien threatened, disgusted at the poor excuse of a man in front of him. He had half a mind to beat him beyond recognition and then some but decided with better judgment not to. Instead, he swung back and punched Alexander in the eye.
Cowering in trepidation and pain, he exclaimed, "Prince Darien!" Who would have imagined finding someone of such noble blood in a base, commoner-filled restaurant? Instead of surrendering, he grabbed Serena and threw her towards him, in hope that he could run away in the time that Darien recovered from the mild shock.
Serena screamed as she was thrown against a hand muscled wall. He steadied her with a warm and gentle hand, afraid that he was going cause more harm to come to her.
Opening her closed eyes after she was steadied, peered into her blue cerulean eyes. She gasped and backed away, realizing that it was Prince Darien who had saved her from a life of ultimate disgust and guilt.
He stared back into her sky blue eyes, momentarily forgetting about Lord Alexander and his offense. "Are alright?" he asked softly, not wanting to startle the gentle creature.
"Yes, my lord. Thank you saving my life. I don't know how I could ever repay you," Serena said and curtsied nervously.
By then, Kenji appeared upstairs, breaking the spell that had woven itself around the two. "Prince Darien, thank you for saving my daughter, Serena. My life is in your debt."
"No need," Darien said graciously. "I am just glad that I was here."
Frustrated shouts reached up to their ears. "Who is going to pay for the damages here?" The manager demanded when they reached downstairs. "You," he pointed to Serena. "You're the caused of all this."
Serena mutely surveyed the damages "she" had wreaked and felt guilty pangs. "I'm very sorry," she said almost inaudibly. "I'll pay for this somehow. I promise, I will.
Darien took pity at the beautiful girl standing in front of him. "I will pay. It was mostly my fault, after all." Taking several gold coins out of his pouch, he asked, " Will this be enough to cover it?"
"Oh my prince, this is more than enough," he said but made no move to return the extra coins.
"Are you sure you'll be alright?" he repeated, the epitome of gentlemanliness. Bowing her head to show her respects, she softly replied yes.
Jadeite and Malachite rushed down the stairs. "My lord! You should have left the menial tasks to us!" Their incessant nagging followed him as he regally walked out, a certain blond maiden named Serena stuck in his head.
Serena's eyes followed him, her heart fluttering as she thought of her handsome prince.
"Serena, you are still young and naïve. I don't want to disappoint you but he is a noble prince. He's not for the likes of us," Kenji said wisely but gently, for fear that his daughter had already developed a tender for him.
"Of course, papa. I never thought otherwise," she said, trying ever so hard to cover her disappointment. Her father was right. A prince like him would never pay any more attention than necessary. She quietly started picking up the scattered dishes and food that reminded her of the terrifying earlier incident, while her father looked at her, almost worriedly.