Serenity slowly and gracefully made her way down the white marble stairs. Though she would prefer not to be at this ball, she was still Princess of the Moon and had to keep her dignity. "Just stare straight ahead, look confident, correct posture, gra-"
The laughing of a group of girls interrupted her thoughts. She glanced down at the bottom of the steps to see four women, no other than her best friends, guardians, and fellow Princesses. Serenity reached the bottom step facing them. Immediately she was embraced in a tight group hug.
"Oh, Serenity, I missed you so much! Mother hasn't let me leave Venus to come visit you… things have been so busy!" exclaimed Princess Mina, the Princess of Venus. Her long, gleaming blond hair accentuated the clearness and love of her glittering bright blue eyes. Her gown was a very low cut orange thin-strapped dress. The silk material clung tightly to her thin body, making her look like the goddess of love that was her legacy.
"Yes, I have been taking so many trips to Neptune for swimming that I have barely been on Mercury!" stated the studious Princess Ami of Mercury. She smiled warmly at her friend, her deep-water hues full of innocence. Her off-the-shoulder navy blue gown stayed close all the way down to her feet, where it drew out. The long sleeves draped down to the ground as well, giving her an ice-vixen look that contrasted to her sweet one. She smoothed out her dark blue hair, giggling.
"I've been in Mercury practicing my ice skating, and I did not even see Ami! I've missed you all so much… we're like sisters!" declared the one with her brown hair in a ponytail, her pools of green sparkling with joy, Princess Lita of Jupiter. The forest green tube top with a long, dark (almost black) taffeta skirt emphasized her toughness while still staying feminine.
"Mother's been stressing the 'future Queen' factor recently, boring me to death with lectures! It's a nightmare!" cried Princess Rei of Mars, her violet eyes fiery with frustration and emotion. Lustrous black hair fell to her lower back, countering to the shining red sleeveless dress she wore. The Japanese inspired high neckline kept her formal, while the mid-calf length of the gown, complete with a high slit, showed off her long legs and natural Aries wild side.
Serenity grinned at her best friends. "It's not all your fault; I haven't made much effort either. Since the Silver Millennium began, it's just been so hectic."
The four guardians nodded in reply.
"Though, all in all, it is better that we are in a peaceful stage," commented Ami.
"Yes, but there's so much to do to KEEP the peace!" Mina exclaimed.
"It's a difficult time…" Lita said absent-mindedly.
"Speaking of which, I believe we're already late for the ball… and it's not very polite for the guest of honor not be on time!" announced Rei. She purposely did not bring up the subject of Zech; the four other Princesses knew of Serenity's anger against being made to marry the prince.
Serenity gave her friends a little squeeze. "Thank you, so much." Reluctantly, she added, "Now, let's go inside, shall we?" With that, the five Princesses of the Inner Planets entered the ballroom.
*~* *~* *~* *~* *~* *~*
"Wow! It's beautiful!" gasped Nephlite. The four generals and Endymion stood outside the palace, gazing at the breathtaking site before them.
"I thought the Moon was beautiful from Earth, but actually being ON it is different!" agreed Malachite.
"The palace's structure is remarkable! We should come here more often!" Zoicite commented.
"Let's get inside, King Jasper and Queen Jade will wonder where we are," Jadeite suggested. With that, the five men entered the Moon Kingdom's palace doors.
As soon as they entered the silver and pink ballroom, the King and Queen of Earth hastily rushed up to the men.
"Boys! There you are!" Queen Jade cried, relieved. "Queen Serenity would like to meet you. Come!" They followed the queen through many dancing couples, who proceeded to bow at the royalty before them, before finally reaching the throne in the front of the enormous room. There sat a woman with surpassing beauty, looking no more than twenty years old, her silver hair glistening in the light. Her pale pink gown seemed to be ever flowing, looking like the Goddess that she was.
"Queen Serenity, may I present to you my son, Prince Endymion, and his Royal Generals," King Jasper introduced.
Endymion stepped up before the Queen with his generals behind him, all bowing.
"It's a pleasure, your majesty."
The Queen smiled radiantly at the prince. "My, you seem like a nice, charming young boy. The pleasure's all mine. I'm glad I finally get to meet the Prince of Earth."
Blushing slightly, Endymion stuttered, "Oh, why, thank you, your Majesty."
Queen Serenity just smiled, amused. "Now, come meet my daughter and her court." Queen Serenity stepped off the throne with perfect gracefulness. "Serenity? Dear?" She walked through the crowd of people, respectfully bowing to all the people that regarded her. "Ah, there she is. Serenity, come here."
Hearing her mother call her, Princess Serenity led her guardians to where her mother was.
"Yes, mother?" asked the Princess.
"This is my daughter, Princess Serenity. Serenity, this is King Jasper and Queen Jade of the Earth."
Serenity curtsied to the rulers. "I'm honored to meet your acquaintance."
"My, what a lovely daughter you have, Queen Serenity."
A lovely pink hue took over Serenity's features.
Queen Jade called forth her son. "Endymion, this is Princess Serenity of the Moon. Serenity, meet my son, Prince Endymion of the Earth."
Endymion bowed. "How do you do, Princess?" When he looked up, blue clashed with blue as the two royalties gazed into each other. She seemed to see deep within his soul, she was so pure… so beautiful, as beautiful as the moon he stared upon every night from his palace on earth.
Serenity curtsied to the prince and upon coming up, she gasped. Her eyes met his in an instant gaze that not even the destruction of the universe could tear apart. He was so handsome, the way his hair swept over his piercing eyes… so sexy, she thought she would melt.
Queen Serenity spoke up. "And these are her Royal Guardians: Princess Rei of Mars, Princess Lita of Jupiter, Princess Ami of Mercury, and Princess Mina of Venus."
"And these are Endymion's Royal Generals: Jadeite, Nephlite, Zoicite, and Malachite," King Jasper said.
The four girls curtsied, the four men bowed.
Seeing the looks on all the girls' faces, Queen Serenity suggested, "King Jasper, Queen Jade, come and tell me about the planet Earth. I've never visited"
Queen Jade's mouth fell open in shock. "You haven't? But it's so close!" With that, the three rulers walked towards the thrones to continue their conversation.
Princess Serenity and Prince Endymion's gaze still stood, each reading each other's hearts. At the same time, the generals and guardians had picked up interests of their own…
"Well, lets go get a table and get to know each other better, shall we?" Ami asked, breaking the silence.
"Wh…what? Oh, ok," agreed Serenity. Everyone's mind cleared back to reality, and the group found a table.
*~* *~*
An hour later, the royalties had started to become acquainted, feeling like they had known each other
forever. Princess Rei and Jadeite had both excused themselves from the table, claiming they wanted to 'take a walk, get to know each other better.' Princess Ami and Zoicite were chatting about their studies and common interests, Ami's hand resting on his leg. Nephlite and Princess Lita slow danced, Nephlite hugging her close; Lita, finally finding a man that was taller than her, rested her head on his shoulder. Malachite and Mina also had begun to dance, both shamelessly flirting, her hand entwined in his hair, his hand stroking her back.
"So, it seems like our friends have, umm, become friendly," Endymion joked through chuckles. He had found that himself and Princess Serenity had quite a lot in common.
Serenity sighed, disappointed. She was having such a good time with Endymion, but making some
appearance with her future husband was crucial. "Oh my, that reminds me, I have forgotten about Zech. This is a ball for us! I would like you to meet him… now where is he…" Serenity peered around when she spotted him across the room. A woman was against the stone side, him with his hand pushed against the wall as well so she couldn't leave, both dangerously close and obliviously flirting.
Seeing the Princess was about to break into tears, Prince Endymion followed her look. He had never
felt more raged in his life… how could her fiancé do that to her? He couldn't believe it.
Endymion lightly placed a comforting hand on her arm. "Hey, why don't you show me around? Lets
take a walk."
Princess Serenity nodded solemnly. They stood up and exited the ballroom.
*~* *~*
The Earth, with its mixture of colors, lit up the empty blackness of the sky, along with the twinkling stars, all smiling down upon the silvery moon. A breath of icy air swept along the planet, touching everything with its frosty body. She stopped upon the shining stone path, gazing up at the vast universe before her wondering eyes, her golden hair swirling around her. The princess appeared angelic, that any second she would spread her feathery wings and take part to the heavens… Endymion's breath caught at this magnificent site.
Serenity turned, noticing the prince staring at her. His cheeks flamed, luckily covered by the midnight sky before them. She just smiled warmly. They began to step along the walkway around the exquisite Moon Kingdom Palace. An uncomfortable silence echoed in their ears, each fidgeting, not knowing what to say.
"So, Endymion, what is your life like on the planet Earth?" Serenity questioned, tugging at her gown.
Endymion ran his strong hand through his disheveled tresses. He sighed… he knew he could trust her with the truth. "Pretty edgy recently."
"How so?"
"It's just… my father… he's always instructing me to do this… but… there's never enough time… and my mother… all lectures… ever since Queen Beryl… its just gotten worse…"
Serenity nodded her head in reply. She glanced up at his face, his eyes hurt and longing. She slipped her arm through his as a sort of comfort.
Endymion looked down to see her eyes not full of pity but of compassion. He gave a breath of relief; the last thing he wanted was pity right now. The prince continued. "The only real communication I've had is with my generals. They're my only friends… and they feel the same way about Queen Beryl as I do."
"And how's that?"
"She's evil. Plain and simple… I swear it on the stars; she is up to something vile. She is… corrupting my parents into going against peace. As if she's hypnotizing their souls…"
Noticing him get quiet suddenly, Serenity sprung up another idea. "Endymion, I want to take you to my favorite place on the palace grounds… come fly!" With that, she took off, laughing, lifting up her dress as she dashed down the path, her heels clicking against the stone. Endymion, stunned by her sudden un-princess likeness, stood bewildered for a few seconds, then quickly picking up the pace to Serenity.
She suddenly stopped, Endymion crashing into her from behind. Regaining his composition, he finally glanced at his surroundings. Silver petals soft as satin danced in the air, some twirling to a waltz, some swirling a ballroom dance. A sea of pink flowers floated about the enchanted garden, their fragrance tickling the pair's noses, luring them in. Two lovers clung to each other under the smooth marble moon, revealing all the passion they held, in the center of the secret area. Gentle water rained upon them, empting into the pool below.
The prince stood, mouth agape, speechless. Serenity giggled and skipped into the magical garden, falling down into the bed of pink petals. She closed her eyes, letting the enchantment and sereneness consume her being. While she lay, Endymion walked around, carefully examining every flower, every tree blossoming with life, every evergreen bush.
"You have no roses," he realized.
Serenity opened her eyes and looked up at the Earthling. "Hmm? What?"
"There are no roses in bloom."
She smiled. "We have no roses. They can't survive in our atmosphere. We can only grow lunar flowers. Why? Is that a bad thing?"
Endymion now had his chance to grin. "On Earth, they represent true love and beauty. They really are a magnificent flower."
"I've only seen a picture of one… Princess Mina says they flourish everywhere in Venus… the rose is their main flower." Serenity grimaced, longing. "But, I've always wanted to see one…"
Endymion sat beside the Moon Princess. They sat in silence for what seemed like eternity, gazing at his luminescent home planet. "This garden is so beautiful. Do you come here often?" Endymion questioned suddenly.
"It's my private garden. Mother reserved it just for me… only her, my guardians, and I know about it. I come here often… to think…"
"About what?"
Serenity's eyes grew distant, as if pondering somewhere deep in her mind. "About everything… my past… my present… my future…" On the word future she frowned. "Basically about life…" Assuming she was getting to informal, her cheeks creeping a lovely pink hue, she stood up. "The ball should be ending now; let us head back." Full of Princess pride, she began to unravel the paths she had just taken, Endymion right on her heels.
*~* *~*
"There you are! We have been looking everywhere for you!" exclaimed Queen Serenity, followed by Zech. Seeing Endymion follow in with Serenity, his eyes narrowed in competition, glaring pure venom at the prince.
"Endymion! We are going to leave now! Say goodbye to everyone! We'll be waiting outside; gather your generals!" Queen Jade nagged at her son, giving Serenity one more curtsy and thank you, left to meet her husband.
"Zech, will you come help me say farewell to our guests?" Queen Serenity requested. Zech posed a smile. "Of course, your Majesty. I'd be honored." The two exited, leaving just Serenity and Endymion.
Serenity glanced about the ballroom. "Now, I know the Generals and Guardians were here when we left… where are they?"
Endymion began to look with her. "I have no idea. Maybe we should go search for them."
"No! Wait! We're here!" In staggered Ami and Zoicite holding hands, both with looks of pure joy at each other.
Serenity and Endymion laughed. "Now, where are the rest of you?"
They heard scuffling of feet. Turning around, the group witnessed Malachite carrying Mina princess-style, her arms wrapped about his neck, locked in a passionate kiss.
"Uh, excuse me, Malachite? Zoicite? It's time to leave," Endymion informed his infatuated friends. Zoicite didn't even glance up. Malachite broke this kiss and gave the Earth Prince the most deathly glare he could muster, before Mina grabbed his face and brought it down once again to hers.
The sound of laughing erupted as Lita and Nephlite followed. She was enveloped in his embrace, his hand caressing her face, both wearing yearning expressions.
Serenity sighed, exasperated. "Is EVERYONE oblivious tonight? Lita, will you let go of him for one second? Mina, stop making out for one second? And Ami, look at me!" All 3 girls ceased their previous activity and stared at Serenity curiously as if they had just seen her for the first time.
"Serenity? When did you get here?" Mina asked innocently.
Serenity just shook her head in despair, joined by Endymion. "Generals, the ball has ended, it is time for us to return to Planet Earth. Now, where is Jadeite? We can't leave without him!"
As if on cue, Rei and Jadeite burst into the room. Her hair, disheveled, her makeup, smeared, her dress, not on evenly. He had the slight trace of lipstick smeared on his face, his shirt partially unbuttoned. Both, out of breath, replied, "Sorry! We came!"
The whole group rolled their eyes, the guys smirking, and the girls laughing.
"What?! What's so funny?!" questioned the pair.
"As I said, oblivious," Serenity stated, throwing her arms up in defeat. Everyone chorused with chuckles, except for the confused Jadeite and Rei.
"Well, Generals, the King and Queen are waiting. We better head out. It was so wonderful to meet and become friends with you ladies." Endymion bowed to the Guardians, they curtsied back, agreeing. He pulled Serenity aside as the rest of the couples kissed with undying heat, embraced as if there was no tomorrow, and gazed like they were wed.
"Serenity, I would like to meet you again sometime and talk. May I have your permission to visit you again tomorrow? Endymion took her hand, pleading, anticipation hanging in his eyes.
Serenity thought for a moment… she was supposed to get together with Zech… she smiled. "How about at night? Meet me in my Garden."
Relieved, he grinned. "It is set, and I bid you farewell now, till we meet again! Generals! Come forth!" Of course, the Generals denied Endymion had spoken. With much effort of the Prince and Princess, they pried the couples apart and managed to get the Generals out the door.
The laughing of a group of girls interrupted her thoughts. She glanced down at the bottom of the steps to see four women, no other than her best friends, guardians, and fellow Princesses. Serenity reached the bottom step facing them. Immediately she was embraced in a tight group hug.
"Oh, Serenity, I missed you so much! Mother hasn't let me leave Venus to come visit you… things have been so busy!" exclaimed Princess Mina, the Princess of Venus. Her long, gleaming blond hair accentuated the clearness and love of her glittering bright blue eyes. Her gown was a very low cut orange thin-strapped dress. The silk material clung tightly to her thin body, making her look like the goddess of love that was her legacy.
"Yes, I have been taking so many trips to Neptune for swimming that I have barely been on Mercury!" stated the studious Princess Ami of Mercury. She smiled warmly at her friend, her deep-water hues full of innocence. Her off-the-shoulder navy blue gown stayed close all the way down to her feet, where it drew out. The long sleeves draped down to the ground as well, giving her an ice-vixen look that contrasted to her sweet one. She smoothed out her dark blue hair, giggling.
"I've been in Mercury practicing my ice skating, and I did not even see Ami! I've missed you all so much… we're like sisters!" declared the one with her brown hair in a ponytail, her pools of green sparkling with joy, Princess Lita of Jupiter. The forest green tube top with a long, dark (almost black) taffeta skirt emphasized her toughness while still staying feminine.
"Mother's been stressing the 'future Queen' factor recently, boring me to death with lectures! It's a nightmare!" cried Princess Rei of Mars, her violet eyes fiery with frustration and emotion. Lustrous black hair fell to her lower back, countering to the shining red sleeveless dress she wore. The Japanese inspired high neckline kept her formal, while the mid-calf length of the gown, complete with a high slit, showed off her long legs and natural Aries wild side.
Serenity grinned at her best friends. "It's not all your fault; I haven't made much effort either. Since the Silver Millennium began, it's just been so hectic."
The four guardians nodded in reply.
"Though, all in all, it is better that we are in a peaceful stage," commented Ami.
"Yes, but there's so much to do to KEEP the peace!" Mina exclaimed.
"It's a difficult time…" Lita said absent-mindedly.
"Speaking of which, I believe we're already late for the ball… and it's not very polite for the guest of honor not be on time!" announced Rei. She purposely did not bring up the subject of Zech; the four other Princesses knew of Serenity's anger against being made to marry the prince.
Serenity gave her friends a little squeeze. "Thank you, so much." Reluctantly, she added, "Now, let's go inside, shall we?" With that, the five Princesses of the Inner Planets entered the ballroom.
*~* *~* *~* *~* *~* *~*
"Wow! It's beautiful!" gasped Nephlite. The four generals and Endymion stood outside the palace, gazing at the breathtaking site before them.
"I thought the Moon was beautiful from Earth, but actually being ON it is different!" agreed Malachite.
"The palace's structure is remarkable! We should come here more often!" Zoicite commented.
"Let's get inside, King Jasper and Queen Jade will wonder where we are," Jadeite suggested. With that, the five men entered the Moon Kingdom's palace doors.
As soon as they entered the silver and pink ballroom, the King and Queen of Earth hastily rushed up to the men.
"Boys! There you are!" Queen Jade cried, relieved. "Queen Serenity would like to meet you. Come!" They followed the queen through many dancing couples, who proceeded to bow at the royalty before them, before finally reaching the throne in the front of the enormous room. There sat a woman with surpassing beauty, looking no more than twenty years old, her silver hair glistening in the light. Her pale pink gown seemed to be ever flowing, looking like the Goddess that she was.
"Queen Serenity, may I present to you my son, Prince Endymion, and his Royal Generals," King Jasper introduced.
Endymion stepped up before the Queen with his generals behind him, all bowing.
"It's a pleasure, your majesty."
The Queen smiled radiantly at the prince. "My, you seem like a nice, charming young boy. The pleasure's all mine. I'm glad I finally get to meet the Prince of Earth."
Blushing slightly, Endymion stuttered, "Oh, why, thank you, your Majesty."
Queen Serenity just smiled, amused. "Now, come meet my daughter and her court." Queen Serenity stepped off the throne with perfect gracefulness. "Serenity? Dear?" She walked through the crowd of people, respectfully bowing to all the people that regarded her. "Ah, there she is. Serenity, come here."
Hearing her mother call her, Princess Serenity led her guardians to where her mother was.
"Yes, mother?" asked the Princess.
"This is my daughter, Princess Serenity. Serenity, this is King Jasper and Queen Jade of the Earth."
Serenity curtsied to the rulers. "I'm honored to meet your acquaintance."
"My, what a lovely daughter you have, Queen Serenity."
A lovely pink hue took over Serenity's features.
Queen Jade called forth her son. "Endymion, this is Princess Serenity of the Moon. Serenity, meet my son, Prince Endymion of the Earth."
Endymion bowed. "How do you do, Princess?" When he looked up, blue clashed with blue as the two royalties gazed into each other. She seemed to see deep within his soul, she was so pure… so beautiful, as beautiful as the moon he stared upon every night from his palace on earth.
Serenity curtsied to the prince and upon coming up, she gasped. Her eyes met his in an instant gaze that not even the destruction of the universe could tear apart. He was so handsome, the way his hair swept over his piercing eyes… so sexy, she thought she would melt.
Queen Serenity spoke up. "And these are her Royal Guardians: Princess Rei of Mars, Princess Lita of Jupiter, Princess Ami of Mercury, and Princess Mina of Venus."
"And these are Endymion's Royal Generals: Jadeite, Nephlite, Zoicite, and Malachite," King Jasper said.
The four girls curtsied, the four men bowed.
Seeing the looks on all the girls' faces, Queen Serenity suggested, "King Jasper, Queen Jade, come and tell me about the planet Earth. I've never visited"
Queen Jade's mouth fell open in shock. "You haven't? But it's so close!" With that, the three rulers walked towards the thrones to continue their conversation.
Princess Serenity and Prince Endymion's gaze still stood, each reading each other's hearts. At the same time, the generals and guardians had picked up interests of their own…
"Well, lets go get a table and get to know each other better, shall we?" Ami asked, breaking the silence.
"Wh…what? Oh, ok," agreed Serenity. Everyone's mind cleared back to reality, and the group found a table.
*~* *~*
An hour later, the royalties had started to become acquainted, feeling like they had known each other
forever. Princess Rei and Jadeite had both excused themselves from the table, claiming they wanted to 'take a walk, get to know each other better.' Princess Ami and Zoicite were chatting about their studies and common interests, Ami's hand resting on his leg. Nephlite and Princess Lita slow danced, Nephlite hugging her close; Lita, finally finding a man that was taller than her, rested her head on his shoulder. Malachite and Mina also had begun to dance, both shamelessly flirting, her hand entwined in his hair, his hand stroking her back.
"So, it seems like our friends have, umm, become friendly," Endymion joked through chuckles. He had found that himself and Princess Serenity had quite a lot in common.
Serenity sighed, disappointed. She was having such a good time with Endymion, but making some
appearance with her future husband was crucial. "Oh my, that reminds me, I have forgotten about Zech. This is a ball for us! I would like you to meet him… now where is he…" Serenity peered around when she spotted him across the room. A woman was against the stone side, him with his hand pushed against the wall as well so she couldn't leave, both dangerously close and obliviously flirting.
Seeing the Princess was about to break into tears, Prince Endymion followed her look. He had never
felt more raged in his life… how could her fiancé do that to her? He couldn't believe it.
Endymion lightly placed a comforting hand on her arm. "Hey, why don't you show me around? Lets
take a walk."
Princess Serenity nodded solemnly. They stood up and exited the ballroom.
*~* *~*
The Earth, with its mixture of colors, lit up the empty blackness of the sky, along with the twinkling stars, all smiling down upon the silvery moon. A breath of icy air swept along the planet, touching everything with its frosty body. She stopped upon the shining stone path, gazing up at the vast universe before her wondering eyes, her golden hair swirling around her. The princess appeared angelic, that any second she would spread her feathery wings and take part to the heavens… Endymion's breath caught at this magnificent site.
Serenity turned, noticing the prince staring at her. His cheeks flamed, luckily covered by the midnight sky before them. She just smiled warmly. They began to step along the walkway around the exquisite Moon Kingdom Palace. An uncomfortable silence echoed in their ears, each fidgeting, not knowing what to say.
"So, Endymion, what is your life like on the planet Earth?" Serenity questioned, tugging at her gown.
Endymion ran his strong hand through his disheveled tresses. He sighed… he knew he could trust her with the truth. "Pretty edgy recently."
"How so?"
"It's just… my father… he's always instructing me to do this… but… there's never enough time… and my mother… all lectures… ever since Queen Beryl… its just gotten worse…"
Serenity nodded her head in reply. She glanced up at his face, his eyes hurt and longing. She slipped her arm through his as a sort of comfort.
Endymion looked down to see her eyes not full of pity but of compassion. He gave a breath of relief; the last thing he wanted was pity right now. The prince continued. "The only real communication I've had is with my generals. They're my only friends… and they feel the same way about Queen Beryl as I do."
"And how's that?"
"She's evil. Plain and simple… I swear it on the stars; she is up to something vile. She is… corrupting my parents into going against peace. As if she's hypnotizing their souls…"
Noticing him get quiet suddenly, Serenity sprung up another idea. "Endymion, I want to take you to my favorite place on the palace grounds… come fly!" With that, she took off, laughing, lifting up her dress as she dashed down the path, her heels clicking against the stone. Endymion, stunned by her sudden un-princess likeness, stood bewildered for a few seconds, then quickly picking up the pace to Serenity.
She suddenly stopped, Endymion crashing into her from behind. Regaining his composition, he finally glanced at his surroundings. Silver petals soft as satin danced in the air, some twirling to a waltz, some swirling a ballroom dance. A sea of pink flowers floated about the enchanted garden, their fragrance tickling the pair's noses, luring them in. Two lovers clung to each other under the smooth marble moon, revealing all the passion they held, in the center of the secret area. Gentle water rained upon them, empting into the pool below.
The prince stood, mouth agape, speechless. Serenity giggled and skipped into the magical garden, falling down into the bed of pink petals. She closed her eyes, letting the enchantment and sereneness consume her being. While she lay, Endymion walked around, carefully examining every flower, every tree blossoming with life, every evergreen bush.
"You have no roses," he realized.
Serenity opened her eyes and looked up at the Earthling. "Hmm? What?"
"There are no roses in bloom."
She smiled. "We have no roses. They can't survive in our atmosphere. We can only grow lunar flowers. Why? Is that a bad thing?"
Endymion now had his chance to grin. "On Earth, they represent true love and beauty. They really are a magnificent flower."
"I've only seen a picture of one… Princess Mina says they flourish everywhere in Venus… the rose is their main flower." Serenity grimaced, longing. "But, I've always wanted to see one…"
Endymion sat beside the Moon Princess. They sat in silence for what seemed like eternity, gazing at his luminescent home planet. "This garden is so beautiful. Do you come here often?" Endymion questioned suddenly.
"It's my private garden. Mother reserved it just for me… only her, my guardians, and I know about it. I come here often… to think…"
"About what?"
Serenity's eyes grew distant, as if pondering somewhere deep in her mind. "About everything… my past… my present… my future…" On the word future she frowned. "Basically about life…" Assuming she was getting to informal, her cheeks creeping a lovely pink hue, she stood up. "The ball should be ending now; let us head back." Full of Princess pride, she began to unravel the paths she had just taken, Endymion right on her heels.
*~* *~*
"There you are! We have been looking everywhere for you!" exclaimed Queen Serenity, followed by Zech. Seeing Endymion follow in with Serenity, his eyes narrowed in competition, glaring pure venom at the prince.
"Endymion! We are going to leave now! Say goodbye to everyone! We'll be waiting outside; gather your generals!" Queen Jade nagged at her son, giving Serenity one more curtsy and thank you, left to meet her husband.
"Zech, will you come help me say farewell to our guests?" Queen Serenity requested. Zech posed a smile. "Of course, your Majesty. I'd be honored." The two exited, leaving just Serenity and Endymion.
Serenity glanced about the ballroom. "Now, I know the Generals and Guardians were here when we left… where are they?"
Endymion began to look with her. "I have no idea. Maybe we should go search for them."
"No! Wait! We're here!" In staggered Ami and Zoicite holding hands, both with looks of pure joy at each other.
Serenity and Endymion laughed. "Now, where are the rest of you?"
They heard scuffling of feet. Turning around, the group witnessed Malachite carrying Mina princess-style, her arms wrapped about his neck, locked in a passionate kiss.
"Uh, excuse me, Malachite? Zoicite? It's time to leave," Endymion informed his infatuated friends. Zoicite didn't even glance up. Malachite broke this kiss and gave the Earth Prince the most deathly glare he could muster, before Mina grabbed his face and brought it down once again to hers.
The sound of laughing erupted as Lita and Nephlite followed. She was enveloped in his embrace, his hand caressing her face, both wearing yearning expressions.
Serenity sighed, exasperated. "Is EVERYONE oblivious tonight? Lita, will you let go of him for one second? Mina, stop making out for one second? And Ami, look at me!" All 3 girls ceased their previous activity and stared at Serenity curiously as if they had just seen her for the first time.
"Serenity? When did you get here?" Mina asked innocently.
Serenity just shook her head in despair, joined by Endymion. "Generals, the ball has ended, it is time for us to return to Planet Earth. Now, where is Jadeite? We can't leave without him!"
As if on cue, Rei and Jadeite burst into the room. Her hair, disheveled, her makeup, smeared, her dress, not on evenly. He had the slight trace of lipstick smeared on his face, his shirt partially unbuttoned. Both, out of breath, replied, "Sorry! We came!"
The whole group rolled their eyes, the guys smirking, and the girls laughing.
"What?! What's so funny?!" questioned the pair.
"As I said, oblivious," Serenity stated, throwing her arms up in defeat. Everyone chorused with chuckles, except for the confused Jadeite and Rei.
"Well, Generals, the King and Queen are waiting. We better head out. It was so wonderful to meet and become friends with you ladies." Endymion bowed to the Guardians, they curtsied back, agreeing. He pulled Serenity aside as the rest of the couples kissed with undying heat, embraced as if there was no tomorrow, and gazed like they were wed.
"Serenity, I would like to meet you again sometime and talk. May I have your permission to visit you again tomorrow? Endymion took her hand, pleading, anticipation hanging in his eyes.
Serenity thought for a moment… she was supposed to get together with Zech… she smiled. "How about at night? Meet me in my Garden."
Relieved, he grinned. "It is set, and I bid you farewell now, till we meet again! Generals! Come forth!" Of course, the Generals denied Endymion had spoken. With much effort of the Prince and Princess, they pried the couples apart and managed to get the Generals out the door.