Hello, moonies!
This story is for you all, so enjoy it!
Sailor Moon and all the stuff involving it was created by the great
Naoko-sama, not me! But, in the other hand, the story and some
characters like Arda, Etlio, Calice and Hyperion are mine, not their
names cause I'm borrowing them from Greek mythology and
Tolkien's universe. I know that there are like 1000 Hyperions, but
I'm not taking that name from any fic, so, don't blame me.
Well, if you want to say anything about the story, or just need
something,
e-mail me to:
susyte@hotmail.com
Thank you to my readers! I love you all!
Sincerely,
Lady Susyte
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rising of a Silver Utopia
By
Lady Susyte
Part I: Never say Never...
Chapter XV
The battle was over and the only thing left on the battlefield was a rug of dead bodies. Not even the air blew thought the sky was covered by a deep layer of clouds, which colors varied between red, gray and black. A heavy, sad atmosphere filled the lonely place, and the only perceptible thing was the dark smell of blood and ashes. Burnt trees swelled on the battlefield as their black color gave a distant idea of what they used to be. Instead of the screams and the swords crashing, the only sound that could be heard in that miserable place was the lonely sound silence, a deep silence only broken by the sound of a horse galloping, crashing the fragile bones lying on the floor. Riding the horse, there were two people: a young man dressed in a shinning golden armor whom face was covered by a helm showing only a few strings of his blond hair. Behind the man, a young woman with long blond hair and deep cerulean eyes, dressed in a snowy white gown, sat quietly with her arms gently wrapped around the man's waist.
-What is this place? -thought the princess looking down at the dead bodies surrounding them- I know I've been here before.
She raised her gaze trying to look at the man's faces. The armor covered most of his features, but she knew he was really handsome, and being with him gave her a feeling of safety. She leaned gently on his back, and even when she was behind him, she knew he was smiling.
The ride seemed eternal, and the landscape didn't seem to change no matter how many yards they advanced. The horses' feet slowly became stained by the blood spread by the dead bodies as its strong legs pushed them toward the hard floor.
The princess felt something cold touching her skin, but no wind was blowing. Almost by instinct, she raised her gaze to the sky seeing a huge maelstrom of dark energy forming over her head. A strong and powerful atmosphere surrounded them as the princess became hypnotized by the round movement of the whirl getting closer and closer. The man in the golden armor turned around quickly as she recovered the knowledge of the situation. It only lasted a second, but beyond the golden helmet, the princess saw a shinning pair of cerulean eyes looking at her. She knew the man was trying to tell her something: his lips moved, but she couldn't hear anything but the same heavy silence. Suddenly, the golden knight threw the lady off the horse, as an other man, this one dressed in a black armor and wearing a long, velvet cape, threw himself over her to protect her as the mighty dark energy hit the golden knight as a thunder. Frightened by the noise, the horse started running misdirected still carrying the man's dead body, and the silhouette disappeared in the distance leaving the princess and the man in the black armor lying on the floor surrounded by corpses.
The princess woke up as she recovered herself from the shock, seeing the man who saved her lying by her side. Getting into a sitting position, she lifted the man's head gently in her arms, and though he wasn't wearing a helm, she couldn't see his face clearly, the only thing she was sure of was that his hair was jet-black. A bitter sadness filled the princess as she started crying. Then sobbing, she exclaimed despaired:
-NO! NO! Please don't die!
The princess' pleads where useless, no matter how hard she tried to make the man answer, he didn't move one muscle. Then, a heavy shadow covered both, the princess and the man. Quickly, she turned around to see that a big, black beast, maybe a dragon, was chasing her. Not even thinking, she got to her feet and started running as fast as she could, but a rock on the path made her stumble as she fell headlong to the ground. She tried to stand up, but it was too late: the dragon was almost over her, but when he threw his powerful claw against the princess, a blinding golden light shone making everything become misty.
***
As dawn became closer, the dark indigo of the sky degraded from a deep midnight blue to a cerulean, almost violet blue, as the sweet melodies from the birds took the place of the fading stars in the new born morning. The sun hadn't risen, but yet, some voices were heard in the corridors, and a few lights adorned the tall crystal windows. Many servants were already up preparing everything for the queen's guests, and their songs, the mirror of their past, mixed with the cold morning air flowing through time expecting the sun to come up. And other voice was heard also inside the palace, but this one didn't belong to a servant, instead, it belonged to the most admired diva: Princess Michiru. Even when it lacked several hours before breakfast, the young lady stood in her room, dressed in a wonderful a-line blue velvet gown with a tear shaped sapphire and diamond brooch embellishing the tip of shoulders v neckline. Delicate fitted wrist length velvet sleeves covered the princess' white arms, and a long, dark blue organza stole with little sparkling crystals all over it fell from her neck to her feet. Her hair was arranged in a single bun and she was wearing an astonish pair of sapphire earrings, a gift from her dear friend Haruka.
With her eyes closed, and her forehead swelling to the sky, she sang Lakme's sad lament, as if it were her own. The opera was taking place that night, and since she got the part, Michiru put all her effort and heart rehearsing all mornings before the sunrise to please her audience. People said that when Michiru was a baby, all the muses blessed her with a special talent, that allowed her not just to do art, but to be a part of it, and this gift was easily visible every time she played the violin or made a painting. Anyway, her talent didn't stop there: her ability to predict the future gave the princess' work a unique touch.
While Michiru sang next to the window, with her hands close to her heart, something made her stop singing as her oceanic eyes opened abruptly: the mirror on her vanity had started shinning wildly as if it were calling her. Quickly, she took the talisman with both hands and looked at it as a vision filled her mind worrying her heart: Serena was in danger.
As the vision ended, Michiru sat on an armchair doing her best not to faint. Her head ached, and her skin was as cold as the mist over the gardens. When she felt better, the princess took her sketch notebook and a charcoal pencil as she started drawing every detail of her vision.
***
Finally, the sun rose majestically over the mountains and trees and shone on the waterfalls filling everything with a peach colored light. The little dew on the leaves sparkled like little stars shinning the plant's life, green and bright, but nothing were as green and deep as princess Lita's eyes. She lied on her bed dreaming, light green blankets covering her body as the little roses embroidery all over the canopy's curtains were projected as little dark pink points all over the princess. The fragrance of all the flowers planted next to her window filled the room with their sweet smell as she delighted herself with the weak sunrays passing through the window. Finally, Lita opened her eyes slowly as she gave herself a few minutes to lie still with her gaze on the ceiling.
After a while, she threw the blankets to the side and sat on one side of the bed as she put on her soft, silky sleepers. She stood slowly as her light green nightgown feel hiding her legs. She stretched herself as she yawned, closing her eyes. The room was calm and silent, and the only thing that could be heard was the birds singing out Lita's window. The first thing she did when she was completely awake was taking a beautiful porcelain sprinkler with her hands as she filled it with water in the bathroom next to her bedroom. As soon and the pot was full, she began watering a group of beautiful, strange plants lying on a table next to the window as she, smiling, whispered sweet words to encourage the plants to keep growing. When she finished, she left the watering pot on the table, next to the plants as she looked outside the window. The sun shone behind the white, puffy clouds giving them a golden glow. Lita breathed deeply the fresh morning air before walking toward her bathroom. After a short, but revitalizing warm bath, the princess stood in front of her wardrobe as she picked the dress for that day. Finally, she careful pulled out a beautiful empire line pale rose dress, with fitted 3 quarter sleeves and a vaporous organza overskirt, and decorating it, the dress had silk green ribbons surrounding the nice neckline, and tied in the front making a delicate bow. Dressed prettily, and with her brown chocolate hair falling down her back making soft waves, she sat in front of her vanity as she arranged her hair in a single ponytail tied with an other green ribbon. In the middle of her dress' bow, she put an emerald brooch that had the shape of a shamrock with four leaves. As usually, she wore a pair of rose shaped earrings made of a strange, dark pink gem only found in Jupiter: her home planet.
As soon as she was ready, she entered her bedroom again, now looking as a real princess, and future queen of her kingdom. On one side of the room, there was a nice, marble fireplace, and next to it, a pair of comfy armchairs. In the middle of the two chairs there was a long, coffee table with a vase full of roses lying on it. On the table, there was also a silver picture frame keeping a small painting: the picture showed four people: three men and a girl. The eldest of the three guys was a tall, handsome gentleman with long curly brown hair falling to his shoulders dressed in an elegant suit. The other two men were twins, both wearing similar suits and smiling brightly. Younger than the other man, the twins had short, disorganized red hair. In the middle of the twins, stood the girl with beautiful curly brown hair. The four people had the same emerald eyes and the same brave smile. Lita took the picture with both hands and lifted it to looked at it closer. A sad smile was painted on the princess's white face as she said aloud:
-Good morning, Laertes. Good morning, Lyzander. Good morning Lucian.
The princess' eyes shone, but she didn't allow the tears to fall. Quickly, she left the picture again on the table and left the room closing the door behind her.
***
The corridor that connected Serena's room with the rest of the palace was delicious lighted by the warm sunrays that now were shinning brightly. The dust particles danced in the wind softly and the fresh flowers that the maids had just put in the big, china vases, seemed to glow with their wonderful colors. It was a perfect morning in everyway, but Lita didn't seem to be enjoying it. She picked a daisy from one of the vases and started walking toward her friend's chambers.
As soon as she was in front of the big mahogany door, the princess knocked it softly once, and then twice. No one answered inside the room and no sound could be heard.
-Maybe she already left or is in the bathroom -thought Lita as she opened the door.
The room was warm and quiet, and the curtains separating Serena's sitting room with her bedroom were half closed. Lita walked toward a beautiful mahogany table where a crystal vase lied filled with assorted flowers. The princess put the daisy in the vase and then, headed to the bedroom as she called her friend's name.
-Good Morning, Serena! -she exclaimed smiling, but she didn't get any answer.
A little concerned, Lita opened the curtain entering the sleeping chambers, were Serena lied in a deep, restless slumber. The princess stepped closer and noticed that the moon princess looked really pale and slightly moved from one side to the other as she murmured sobbing:
-Let me go! Stop chasing me! I don't want to die!
Lita gasped worriedly and ran toward her friend's bed as she shook Serena saying:
-Wake up! You're having a nightmare!
Serena didn't seem to react, so this time, princess Jupiter shook her a little harder and she said louder:
-Serena! Please! Wake up!
Finally, Serena's deep blue eyes opened slowly as she breathed hardly. The princess blinked and looking at her worried friend, asked softly:
-What happened? Where's that thing?
Lita smiled and caressing her blond hair, she said:
-It's gone: you just had a bad dream, but it's over now.
Serena sighed and hugged herself as she said looking at Lita:
-Please, close the window...
-It's closed -answered Lita confused.
-Then why is it so cold? -asked the blond girl shivering.
-What are you saying? It's a pretty warm morning.
-But I'm freezing! -added Serena covering herself with a good set of blankets.
Lita sat on the bed and touched Serena's forehead with the back of her hand, then gasped and exclaimed worriedly:
-You're teeming with fever!
-I'm fine! -said Serena proudly.
-No you're not! -said Lita determinedly-. I'm going to call someone.
-No! Don't do that! I'm fine! Really! -said the moon princess getting into a sitting position.
Suddenly, the door burst open and a cheerful blond entered the room saying happily:
-Good Morning, Serena! It's time to get up!
Serena waved at her cousin, and then turned to look at Lita as she said:
-Mina's right! It's time to get up! I must go and talk to Endymion!
Ignoring what her friend was saying to her, Serena sat on the edge of the bed and then stood up. As soon as she did so, a lot of shinning colored spots began dancing in front of her eyes as the sounds became distant. Her world quickly became black, and though she knew her friends were trying to say something, she couldn't her anything but an annoying beep inside her ears. Her legs became weak and her mind confused, and next thing, she couldn't remember what happened.
Lita hurried to the bed and caught Serena when she was fainting, then put her unconscious friend back on the bed as she said in a concerned way:
-Go and call Queen Serenity. I'll take care of Serena meanwhile.
Mina nodded and left the room while Lita took a chair and placed it next to the bed. She sat there looking at her ghostly white friend looking more death than alive with her lips cold and lacking of color.
Trying to make Serena feel better, Lita stood and walked toward the closet taking out a warm, delicate pink wool blanket as she placed it on the bed covering the princess with it. A light knock on the door interrupted her.
-It must be Mina again -thought Lita as she walked to the door- probably she met with the Queen on her way to her room.
Bending her head, the princess opened the door and bowing, she said politely:
-Good Morning, your majesty.
-"Highness" is okay...but thank you anyway for the "warm" welcome -said a male voice between confused and amused-. I guess it's useless to remind you that I'm not king yet.
Lita blushed into the deepest red anyone had ever seen. She lifted her head slowly and trying not to show how ashamed she was, she said laughing nervously:
-Endymion! Sorry, I thought you were someone else.
-Don't worry, everyone confound me with my father. People says we look really alike -said the prince smiling-. By the way, why are you here so early?
-I ask you the same question -said Lita winking as the prince became as red as she.
-I... -said Endymion stuttering- just came to escort Serena to the Blue Hall for breakfast.
-Sincerely, I don't think she's going anywhere -said the princess looking somehow worried.
-Why? What happened? -exclaimed the prince concerned.
Lita began walking toward her friend's bedroom as she made a little "follow me" sign to Endymion. He entered the room too and his heart broke as he saw his beloved lying in bed, her face whiter than the whitest snow, and not anymore wearing that mischievous smile she held when she slept: her lips made a thin line of a purplish color, the same as her closed eyes. He stopped next to the door and asked softly:
-Is she...is she de...
-No! -interrupted Lita- she's just unconscious -then she made a pause and sighed-: she was teeming with fever when I came to wake her up, and then, when she tried to stand up, she fainted.
Endymion didn't say anything, he just walked toward the bed and sat on the edge next to Serena. Gently, he caressed Serena's white face brushing a few strings of loose hair away, and murmured looking at her:
-My poor angel...
Serena moved her head slightly and curved her lips in what seemed to be a smile, then curled as a kitten and murmured half asleep:
-My prince in the shinning armor...you came to save from the beast...
He raised an eyebrow confused as Lita laughed. He blushed and said looking upset:
-What's so funny about it? She must be raving!
-I won't contradict you, "prince in the shinning armor" -said Lita still laughing.
-I'm serious! -said Endymion this time- her fever must be really high.
-I know it is -added the princess serious this time-. I've told Mina to go and call the queen. I'm really worried about Serena.
A deep silence fell between them as the two princes looked at the sleeping maiden.
-At least she's sleeping calmly now -said Lita softly-. When I came here this morning she was having terrible nightmares. I wonder what she was dreaming: she said something about a "thing" chasing her...
Though Endymion was hearing what Lita was telling him, he looked all self consumed by his own thoughts. He hadn't stopped looking at Serena one second, as if he were trying to find something on her face.
Lita stood and went to sit in the living room. Endymion remain with Serena, but then, feeling that nothing would happen if he kept looking at her like that, he went to the sitting room too and took a seat on a comfy armchair.
-I can't figure out what happened to Serena -said the prince softly-. She was fine last night.
-So, you two made up, huh? -said Lita with a smile.
-Yeah...I guess I can't live without her -said Endymion with a little smile-. I feel so stupid every time we fight...I guess it's because I love her more than my heart can resist.
Lita giggled and looking thoughtful, she said sweetly:
-The first time I saw you, I couldn't imagine yourself saying such nice things: you looked so mean and arrogant: the kind of guy that would never love anyone.
-The first time you saw me, huh? For knowing me just for a few days you certainly had changed your mind quickly -said the prince teasingly.
-No, I'm not talking about *this* time, I'm talking about the *first* time -said Lita shaking her head.
-Then when was the first time? -asked the prince curious-. Have we met before?
-We definitely have -answered Lita-: it was one year before the war started. You and your family visited my parents in Jupiter to sign and alliance in case a war overtook the kingdom, so while your parents were taking care of their royal business, you spent the days making pranks to everyone in the palace with my elder brothers: the twins Lizander and Lucian. You three were inseparable.
-I can remember -said Endymion smiling- they were like my elder brothers. We really had fun, except when Laertes discovered us: I guess he was the only serious one of the three.
-Just as every seventeen years old guy: he had the same "marriage is for the weak" attitude as every heir to a kingdom being pursued relentlessly by his parent's arguments -said Lita trying to remember every one of his features- although, he had a sweet and caring side he barely showed: he was the only one who defended me when you, gang of killers, locked me inside the cupboard!
-No! Don't tell me you were *that* girl! -exclaimed the prince blushing with shame-. I really didn't know! I mean...you look so different now!
-Maybe it's because it happened 12 years ago: I was only 5 years old, and you were the worst ten years old guy I've met! When Serena told us about you after going to Earth, I barely believed what she said about you being... -Lita stopped talking as curiosity born inside the prince.
-What did she say about me? -asked him anxiously.
-Geez, the question should be "what didn't she say?" -said Lita laughing- Let me remember, she said you were really handsome, and that you had the most beautiful smile, and also that she liked you, the way she likes chocolate cake.
-Did she really say that? -asked the prince smiling- I always thought she hated me.
-Hate you? She's mad about you! -exclaimed Lita shaking her head- She kept talking about "that guy in the armor" she saw at the ball. And she still does.
While they spoke, someone knocked the door. Lita stood and walked toward the door as she opened it. This time, she waited to see who was on the other side before bowing, but this time, it was the person she was expecting. Endymion stood to say hello to the queen, bowing politely as Serenity saluted them looking calm and solemn as always:
-Good morning, Lita, good morning Endymion -then she turned to look back at Lita and said- Mina told me you needed to see me. Lita sent a killer gaze at Mina as she asked her softly:
-Didn't you tell the Queen?
-Tell me what? What's going on? -asked the queen a little curious.
Mina and Lita froze as they looked at each other confused, trying with the gaze to convince the other one to tell the queen. When Lita was about to talk, Endymion interrupted, and politely, he said:
-Have a seat, your majesty, I'll explain you all.
Both, the prince and Serenity sat in the living room as he told her about Serena being sick.
***
After Endymion and Lita left the room, Serena woke up with the sound of voices in the other room. She couldn't hear exactly what they were saying but she had been able to recognize some names and words, like "Serena" and "love". She breathed deeply and remained in the bed. She knew that if she tried to get up, she would faint once again. Silently, she made an effort to listen what the two people were saying. The first thing she noticed was that one of the voices was Endymion's. She smiled with the fact and felt like calling his name out loud, but she was feeling too week to talk. Now, she didn't feel so cold, but she was feeling worse. Her head ached terribly and everything had a yellow shade. She made and effort to turn around: the sunlight made her eyes hurt. Finally, she decided to relax until someone entered the room. After a while, she discovered that now, there were four different voices outside the room. A while passed and then, she heard steps getting closer and closer towards the door. She covered half her head with the blankets and faked being asleep.
The queen's reaction when Endymion told her the story was totally unexpected: Mina and Lita could almost see the queen exclaiming worriedly her daughters name as she ran toward her bedroom, but instead, Serenity remained on the chair, quiet and serious as a rock. Not even her face changed, which was even spookier than reaction number one. The queen only acted like this when something was really wrong, and the last time any of the girls had seen that expression was when king Hyperion died.
Endymion turned his gaze against the girls asking with his eyes if he should continue talking or let the queen be next to talk. Finally, Serenity's severe look changed for a sad smile as she laughed sarcastically to herself:
-I should have known... -she murmured as she stood heading to the window- I knew this would happen...
-Majesty, are you alright? -asked Lita stepping closer to the queen.
-I'm okay, Lita -sighed Serenity- don't worry about me. -I know this is hard for you, but I'm sure Serena's going to be okay -added Mina stepping next to Lita.
-If it were only that... -murmured the queen more to herself, then turned to face the princesses and asked- how is she right now?
-She's sleeping -answered Lita bending her head slightly.
Serenity smiled and nodded, then, began walking slowly toward the curtain, entering Serena's bedroom. Mina and Lita also started walking, but before any of them could reach the door, the prince said seriously:
-Don't enter in there: if the queen is feeling as I'm feeling right now, the only thing she would want is to be left alone with Serena.
The two girls turned around and started walking back to the sitting room taking a seat on a couch. For a good while, the only thing the girls did was stare at the prince's severe gaze against the floor. He certainly looked devastated, sad and lonely. They couldn't say he was upset, but his icy eyes burnt with rage. His lips made a thin line and his chin was resting on one of his hands that, at the same time, was resting on his lap.
Mina opened her mouth to say something, but before any sound could leave her throat, Endymion said sadly:
-Don't try to comfort me, it's useless, the same as being there looking so pitifully at me -the prince made a pause and rising his gaze, he continued-. If you really want to do something for Serena, go down to the dinning room and take her place as the real princesses you are.
-And what about you? -asked Lita a little skeptical.
-My place is here, next to the one I love -said Endymion softly.
At last, the two girls decided to follow the prince's instructions and left the room. On the other hand, Endymion remained there, sitting alone. He had felt the gravity on the queen's words, and now he feared something was truly wrong.
Moaning, the prince held his forehead with both hands resting his elbows on his lap as he said angrily to himself:
-This is all my fault! Since I meet Serena I hadn't done anything but make her suffer -then he sigh sadly-: maybe things would be better if I just rush out of her life...
***
The sound of Serenity's steps against the soft carpet was so weak, that she almost seemed like a ghost. This had given her the ability to rush into any place without being noticed, but with Serena, this did never work. Her daughter and she shared a strong bound that allowed them to feel each other's presence even surrounded by the deepest darkness.
Serena didn't need much time to know that her mother had entered the room, so she made an effort to remain static in the bed until her mother decided to leave, but this never happened, instead, the queen walked toward the princess' vanity and looking at the beautiful music box, she said softly to herself:
-I knew since the beginning that this would happen, but yet, I didn't warn you, though, I should -then she sighed and continue-. Nor of these is your fault, but yet, I made you think it was...
Serena was listening every single word her mother said as confusion overtook herself. What was she talking about? Did it have anything to do with her father? She wondered. The way her mother looked at the jewelry box was so deep, sad and full of love that it almost scared the princess. She was thinking about faking she had just woken up, but before she could do that, the queen proceeded:
-It's useless to keep this lie any longer: it's too late now, and though I did my best to prevent you, it didn't work at all. There are some things that only destiny can decide.
Not being able to control herself any longer, Serena sat on the bed and exclaimed really upset:
-I knew something was wrong! I knew you're hiding something from me!
Serenity turned around and facing her daughter, almost knowing she had been awake the whole time, said:
-Perhaps, but I did it for own for your own good.
-For my own good? -asked Serena- hiding the truth is technically lying! No matter what your reasons were, you still lied to me! I can't believe you did that!
Her daughter's fair angriness at her didn't upset the queen, on the contrary, she smiled weakly and walking toward the bed, sat and took Serena's hands as she said:
-I know I did wrong, but it was the only way. I was trying to do was save your life.
-Save my life? -stuttered Serena worriedly- Do you mean I'm dying?
-God, no! You're not dying -said the queen hugging her daughter trying to comfort her- but I can't tell you any more. If I do so, then I would be risking your life worse than now.
-What's going on? First those strange dreams, then this. Why can't you tell me? -asked Serena between scared and upset.
-Because it's a part of the whole thing -answered Serenity- If I tell you, things are going to get worse than they are now, and anyway, you will find out sooner or latter.
-And why not sooner? I mean, if I'm going to die at least I deserve to know why -said the princess sarcastically.
-You're not going to die so stop asking -said the queen definitely.
-It has something to do with my father's death, right? That's why you don't want to tell me anything about it -said Serena after solving the puzzle.
-Don't say that, and please, let your father rest in peace -said Serenity seriously-, anyway, who told you something like that?
-No one, I just had a presentiment -said Serena not wanting to accuse herself for being in the secret room, but she *knew* that the man in the golden armor in that nightmare had to be her father. It was the only explanation. Serena sighed and continue- If you're not telling me anything about my father or that big secret you're hiding from me, at least tell me who's outside: I heard you were talking to someone.
-So, you weren't asleep... -said the queen more as an affirmation than as a question.
-No -said Serena softly- I heard every single word you said, but yet, you haven't answered my question: who's outside?
-Well, when I came here, Mina, Lita and Endymion were out there, but I guess that they've already left.
-I see -said the princess sadly-. I guess I'll have some sleep then...
-That's the best for you -said the queen caressing her daughter's head-. Now, sleep well. I'll call a doctor so he can come and see you.
With this, Queen Serenity left Serena's room as quietly as she entered, going back to the sitting room. She expected to find it empty, but the big surprise was when she found the prince sitting alone on a couch waiting silently. Looking at him, the queen asked:
-Where are Mina and Lita?
-I told them to leave and have breakfast -said the prince simply, his gaze locked in the floor.
-And why didn't you go with them? -asked Serenity this time a bit puzzled.
-I felt it was my duty to stay here -added the prince the same way as before.
-Why did you think that? -said the queen sitting on an arm chair facing the couch on which the prince was sitting.
-Because all of this is my fault -finished the prince lowering his head and closing his eyes.
-No, Endymion, it is not your fault -said the elder woman calmly.
-Don't try to comfort me with your words, because it's useless. Maybe you can fool the scouts, but you can't fool me. I know all this is related to that damned key! And I made her use it! I upset her and made her ran away -said Endymion upset at himself, as if he were confessing the worst of all crimes.
-Calm down and stop blaming yourself -said the queen with the same soft tone-. Maybe the key *did* have something to do with Serena's sickness, but it's definitely not your fault -Serenity made a pause and after a second, she continued- I've hard so much about you making my daughter angry, indeed, but may I ask why?
-I just hid the truth from her...and she found out -said Endymion.
-The truth about what? -asked the queen.
-About the chat we had yesterday -said the prince rising his gaze to the queen.
-So, she knows about the chat now, doesn't she? -said Serenity smiling ironically.
-She does -answered the prince- but unfortunately she found out too late.
-I was wondering, Endymion, why do you know that she ran away? That key matter was supposed to be a secret.
-I'm just good at guessing.
-But terrible at lying -added the queen-. That isn't a thing you can guess easily. Now, it's my turn for guessing: it was Setsuna, right?
-How did you know? -asked Endymion surprised.
-Because she's the only one who knows, or at least, one of the only three people who knows, and well, though one of them is in Pluto and the other one is me, I guess it has to be her.
-She just gave me the "hint" so I could find Serena. The truth is I confirmed my doubts much latter -said the prince feeling almost proud of his perspicacity.
-And may I know why you were trying to find my daughter? -said Serenity finding the fact a bit unexpected.
-I told you, I made her angry. I felt guilty for it and tried to find her to apologize, but well, it came out that she wasn't here...on the moon.
-Do you know where she went? -exclaimed the queen amazed.
-Yes I do, but I won't tell you -said the prince folding his arms and smiling proudly.
-How you dare to talk to me that way. It seems that you forgot who I am -said Serenity a tad offended-. You may be prince and be allowed to talk to me, but I'm still the queen.
-I think you misunderstood me -said Endymion calmly-. You didn't let me finish: I won't tell you, unless you tell me what's going on with Serena and why you can't tell her anything about her father's death. It's a fair deal.
-No it's not! It's blackmailing! -cried the queen indignant.
-Calm down, I haven't finished...yet -said the prince smiling with mischief-. It is not blackmail and I will explain you why: I won't tell you because I can't: I have many good reasons for keeping that information to myself, the first of them is Serena's wealth, so...technically, it's the same reason you have...*but*...if you tell you me what I'm requesting you, I would be sure of why you're treating Serena the way you're doing, and I would have the reassuring feeling that I can tell you without fearing that you may harm her. Now, is it fair or not?
-I'm not answering that -laughed Serenity sarcastically-. Neither the other question. I can't figure out where you got that method to getting information from me, but as much as I want to know where Serena was, I can't tell you, neither Serena. That decision is beyond myself, but I have an other fair deal for you: you stop asking me questions, and I won't tell your parents about this.
Endymion froze with the thought of the queen telling his parents about he trying to blackmail the high queen of the moon kingdom, so, standing up, he said clearing his throat:
-I find the deal quite fair.
Serenity laughed and said:
-I knew you would, now, let's go down stairs to have breakfast. Your parents must be worried about you.
-I'll be with you in a second -said the prince looking at Serena's bedroom.
-I don't think you should see her right now. She told me she wanted to sleep -said Serenity knowing exactly what Endymion's intensions were.
-It'll be just a minute: I need to pick something I lend her -said Endymion inventing one of his famous excuses.
-It's okay, but don't take long. I don't want her to wake up.
With this, Queen Serenity stood from the chair and left the room closing the door behind her back. Once she was outside, she breathed deeply and sighed: she couldn't forgive herself for talking more than she should, but anyway, it was a fact that anything that she said was a mystery to neither Serena nor Endymion. The time in which the truth would be revealed was getting closer and closer, and the only thing she could do was remain silent and delay that time as much as possible.
Before the queen could leave the corridor, she heard some weak footsteps following her slowly, so turning around, she found Princess Michiru looking serious and solemnly at her. Serenity smiled warmly at the younger princess, who bowed and said sweetly:
-Good morning, your majesty.
-Good morning, Michiru -answered the queen-. May I ask what are you doing here so early?
-I had a bad feeling about Serena -said the princess turning to look at the princess' chamber's doors.
-And as always, no bad feeling of yours is wrong -said Serenity smiling sadly.
-You mean something happened to Serena? -asked Neptune worriedly.
-Yes, I fear so -answered the queen softly-. She's sick. I was about to go and call the doctor so he can come and see her.
-We both know that there's nothing a doctor can do for her -said Michiru looking somehow amused with the queen's resolution.
-I know, Michiru -said the elder woman-, but at least I'll be sure that it is what we think it is.
-There's no other explanation -said the princess, then, a heavy a silence fell between them. After a pause, Michiru raised her gaze to the queen and said- By the way, thank you for not letting Serena see the painting: I know I shouldn't be doing such pictures but I thought that showing you my visions may help in some way.
-I know, and I'm glad I can talk to you about all this, but I can't help feeling guilty for involving you when you have nothing to do with this problem -said Serenity sadly.
-When the time comes it will concern all of us. It's better to be prepared -said the younger lady.
-I understand what you're trying to tell me, but I fear I can't tell her -said the queen beginning to walk, Michiru next to her-. I almost confess her the truth a while ago and it helped me to notice that she isn't prepared yet.
-But this is going way too far! -exclaimed the princess.
-Perhaps, but it's better this way -said Serenity looking up at the ceiling- I know Hyperion would have done the same.
-I'm sure Serena knows more than we think -added Michiru.
-No, but I know of someone who does suspect: Prince Endymion is sharper than I thought -said the queen turning to look at the princess.
-And what if he finds out? I'm sure he will tell Serena -said Neptune concerned.
-I'm prepared for that, after all, now he's an important of this game, actually, one of it causes -said the queen thoughtfully.
-Does she know that you know? -asked Michiru curiously,
-No, she's trying to fake that nothing is going on -smiled Serenity-. She reminds me of myself.
-So, what are you going to do now? -asked the princess this time.
-The same I've been doing all these years: sit and wait faking nothing is happening -answered the queen simply.
-Your majesty...
-Yes Michiru?
-May I see Serena? -requested Neptune.
-If I were you, I would come latter -said Serenity.
-Why? Is she asleep? -asked the princess.
-Not exactly, but if you want to do something wise, come and have breakfast with me and the rest of the guests -answered the queen solemnly.
Both, the princess and the queen kept walking silently toward the Blue Hall, not knowing what was happening at Serena's room. Since her mother left, she couldn't get to sleep as she said: her mind was filled with questions, and thought it made her feel so exhausted, she couldn't close her eyes thinking the dreams may come back. She just remain there, lying quietly hugging the big black teddy bear. The queen words still ached inside her heart: the only thing that kept made her wake up that morning was the hope of seeing him, but her mother has been quite clear: he had left.
***
As soon as Queen Serenity left the room, Endymion breathed deeply and stood trying to figure out what he was about to do. It hurt him, but he knew he had to finish with it at once if he wanted Serena to be fine. His infinite love for her gave him the strength to do any sacrifice. Sighing, he moved the curtain softly and entered the room as his eyes caught the angelic vision he feared the most: the sight of Serena with her hair down as gold strings, the silk blankets drawing her perfect curves, and that calm look on her porcelain face made his will weak and his legs limp. The words froze inside his throat as he remained, several meters from the bed, looking at her directly. His eyes were cold and insensitive, but his heart was burning. After staring at her for a long while, he finally breathed deeply and turned around to leave the room, but then, the lovely princess opened her eyes and said sweetly:
-You can stay: I'm awake.
Endymion stopped, but it passed some minutes before he turned around. His eyes were still icy cold, his expression serious. On the contrary, Serena was smiling warmly at him, her eyes shinning brightly filled with love for the man she loved.
They didn't exchanged words, just one long, penetrating gaze. After a while, the smile on Serena's face started to banish as she asked softly looking worriedly at him:
-Endy, what's wrong?
The prince remained as a statue looking at her. Not a word left his mouth, but suddenly, his expression changed: now, his eyes reflected anger and pity mixed in a deep indigo fire. Serena was tented to ask again what was worrying Endymion, but before she could say anything, the prince ran quickly toward the bed and kneeled next to it, resting his head on Serena's lap as he took the princess' hands in his.
-I'm sorry! I'm so sorry! -he said not lifting his head to look at her.
-Why are you so sorry? -asked Serena puzzled and amazed at the same time.
-You got sick because of me! -said the prince holding her hands tightly- If I had told you about the chat I had with your mother when you asked me, you wouldn't be like this, and now...I was thinking something so mean...so cruel...
-I really don't understand what you're saying -said Serena sweetly but still confused-, but if this makes you feel better, I forgive you.
Endymion lifted his head, and not releasing the princess' hands, he sat on the edge of the bed and looking at her warmly, threw his arms around her hugging her tightly. The smile returned to Serena's face as she hugged him back, resting her head on his chest as she said softly:
-I know we saw each other just last night, but you can't imagine how much I missed you- then she made a pause looking into his eyes as she said-. You shouldn't be so sad, you didn't made me sick, on the contrary, you've made me feel much better, besides, it's nothing serious: maybe just a cold.
Endymion knew that what Serena had wasn't just a cold, and he also knew that she, the same as he, knew that. He released her from the embrace, and kissing of her hands, he said softly:
-Sery, just try to be more careful the time next time you use that key. I just don't want to think about losing you, and we both know that thing isn't just a jewel.
-What makes you think it was the key? -asked the princess looking somehow worried.
-The way your mother reacted when I told her about you being sick gave me enough reasons to think that -said Endymion looking into her eyes.
-So, you talked to my mother? -asked Serena smiling.
-I had to: Mina and Lita didn't dare to tell her -answered the prince laughing.
Serena laughed too, but then, she became silent and blushed as she lowered her face. For while, neither of them said anything, but then, Serena cleared her throat and said softly:
-Before leaving, my mother said all of you had left to have breakfast...but I see you didn't.
-Mina and Lita did -said Endymion smiling warmly at her-, I told them to, but I had to stay. I had to see you. When I'm with you, I feel anything else in the world can wait.
-Endy, it wasn't necessary -said Serena blushing into a deeper shade of red.
-Believe me, it was -said the prince bending to kiss her cheek.
-So, for how long have you been there, waiting? -asked the princess this time a bit more seriously.
-Since you fainted. I was waiting to see how were you -answered Endymion-. I was very worried about you.
-That means you haven't eaten anything yet? What kind of hostess I am! -exclaimed Serena angry at herself-. Let me go and get us something to eat.
The Moon Princess sat on the edge of the bed and stood, but the same as before, her sight became misty and her head heavy. Fortunately, before she could lose her conscience, the prince put his arms around her and held her tightly as he said worriedly:
-Serena, don't! You're still too weak to stand up. Remain in bed while I go and get you something.
-I'm fine -said Serena before she closed her eyes leaning against her beloved exhausted.
-No you're not -said Endymion lifting her in his arms as he put her delicately on the bed. Then, he looked at her and concerned, he said:-
-Please, stay here, and don't waste the little energy you have left.
Serena moved her head slightly in what seemed to be a nod. The prince kissed her forehead and walking toward the door, he said:
-I'll be right back. Try to have some rest.
As soon as Endymion left the room, she sighted, and said as a pair of tears left her eyes:
-What's wrong with me? What or who in the world can be doing this to me?
With this, she started sobbing as she hugged the bear tightly.
-Serena, why are you crying? -asked Endymion walking to the bed as Serena lifted her head to look at him.
-I thought that you would be taking longer to come back -said the princess softly.
-I found a maid out there and she said she would bring us the breakfast here -said the prince sitting next to her-. But you haven't answered my question: why are you crying like that?
-I'm scared -answered Serena between sobs-. I know something is wrong and my mother won't tell me what it is. I know it has to do with my father, but every time I ask, she deny it. I really don't know what to do. I'm starting to fear the worst.
-Did the queen mention anything to you? -asked Endymion giving her his handkerchief.
-She said something about bad things happening to me if she tells me anything about it. I really don't know what to believe -sighed the princess.
-Don't cry, Sery -said the prince holding her- whatever it is what your mother can't tell you, you must have faith in her. All I know is that she's trying to protect you, and though she isn't using the best way to do it, you must be patient.
-But...
-Shhh... -Endymion interrupted her by putting a single finger on her lips- no buts. You know I don't agree with what she's doing, but the last thing you need right now is to worry about such things. Lie and try to rest. Crying isn't going to solve anything.
The prince gently dried the princess' tears with his hand as she took his free hand in hers.
-Why are you so good to me? To a *princess*! I thought you hated princesses -said Serena looking into his eyes.
-I do hate princesses, but I also love angels -said Endymion standing.
Serena remained silent for a while thinking about what he had just said and then blushed into a deep crimson as she understood what he had just said. Endymion started laughing sweetly but then a light knock on the door interrupted him.
-Breakfast's here -said the prince winking an eye at Serena before walking toward the door. A young maid dressed in a dark blue gown and wearing a white lace apron over it entered the room carrying a large silver tray which she carefully put on a round table near the window. On the tray there was a porcelain tea pot with two cups, and also a little crystal bowl filled with fresh strawberries. Next to that, a pile of hot pancakes lied on a plate, and finally, a small basket filled with fresh baked french breads accompanied by at least five different sorts of marmalade. The young servant bowed deeply and said leaving:
-Enjoy your food, your highnesses.
As soon as the maid left, Endymion walked to the door and lifted the whole try putting it on the empty side of the large bed as he sat next to Serena. With a sweet, warm smile, the prince started feeding Serena strawberries as she said laughing after swallowing the first one almost in one piece.
-What are you doing?
-Can't a prince spoil his lovely girlfriend? -laughed Endymion feeding her an other strawberry.
-You don't need to ask -answered Serena sweetly-. You know that when it gets to being spoiled, I'm the High Queen of Spoiled Brats.
-My respects to the queen -said the prince bending his head politely, then, he filled the two cups with the boiling raspberry tea as he said rising one of the cups:
-Let's toast for Serena, High Queen of Spoiled Brats and ruler of Spoiland.
-Toast! -said Serena sarcastically as she drank a sip of her tea.
-Come on, don't tell me you're upset at me. You know it's a joke -said Endymion getting closer to her.
-It's not that -said Serena blushing a little.
-Then what's wrong? -asked the prince softly- You were laughing a second ago and suddenly, you became quiet. Tell me what's in your mind.
-Promise me you wont laugh at me -said Serena seriously.
-I promise -said Endymion starting to become really curious.
Serena blushed even more, and breathing deeply, she started:
-Well, the thing is I've imagined several times about having breakfast with you in bed but I never thought it would be this way. I know it's stupid, and I shouldn't have said that.
-Serena -said Endymion looking into her eyes with a little smile-, when are you going to learn that nothing you say is stupid to me? Remember the first day of the festival, when I first kissed you? Well, I meant everything I said. I admire you because you're smart and clever, but I also admire you because you're the sweet Serena I lo...
-Loiter with? -interrupted Serena with a little smile.
-No, the sweet Serena I love.
With this, the prince leaned to kiss Serena, but before their lips could touch, Serena stopped him exclaiming:
-Wait! What if what I have is contagious?
-Then, we'll be sick together -said Endymion smiling as they kissed gently, yet passionately.
The long, tender kiss ended with a sweet smile on both the princes' faces. Endymion took one of the plates lying on the tray and served it with half of the pancake tower as he passed it to Serena taking the other half to himself as he covered it with maple syrup. The couple began eating as they shared a nice chat filled with laughter an unimportant things that, to them, seemed to be the only thing that could care. Not even the best banquet made by the greatest chef of all the Solar System could have tasted nearly as delicious as this meal tasted to the two young lovers that, filled with love for each other, shared as if it were ambrosia itself.
When they were finishing their second cup of tea, someone knocked on the door slightly.
-Don't worry, I'll get it -said Endymion walking toward the door as Serena looked at him from the bed.
She heard the door open and a second latter Queen Serenity was entering her chambers followed by Endymion. The elder woman was looking quite more calm and peaceful than before, and she acted as if nothing had happened. She smiled and walking toward the bed, said taking a seat on the empty side of the bed where the prince was sitting before:
-I see you're much better. The colors had come back to your cheeks, almost as if you're blushing.
The commentary made Serena flush, indeed, and trying not to make the reason of her quick healing evident, she said serenely:
-Yes, I'm feeling much better now. I'm feeling so well that I'm sure I'll be able to go the opera tonight.
-To the opera? I don't think so! -said the queen in a commanding way-. You're way too weak to be going to such a long performance. You must stay in your room and rest.
-But mother, I'm feeling fine! I just needed to eat something, that's all! My sugar level was a tad low, that's why I fainted -exclaimed Serena in her defense.
-I'll wait outside -said Endymion rushing out of the room silently knowing that staying wasn't a good idea.
-Serena, I can't allow you to go to the opera -said Serenity softly placing a hand on her daughter's shoulder- but I know how much your presence mean and to Rei and Michiru, so I'll postpone it for an other day.
-You can't do that! -cried Serena- Lord Amadeus is going to get really upset: everyone has been working really hard for this, and I don't want to be the reason of their disappointment.
-Don't feel that way, Serena, I'm sure they'll understand -said the queen with a reassuring smile- I talked to Michiru a while ago and she was really worried about you. They won't get mad, so don't worry.
-I can't help feeling guilty -said Serena softly-. I screwed up everyone's day.
-You didn't do anything so don't blame yourself -said the queen sweetly-. Everyone has a right to get sick sometime, besides, your health is much more important than the opera.
Serena couldn't help blushing a little with the sincere sweetness in her mother's words. Something in the way she had talked gave Serena the feeling that her mother *really* cared for her, so smiling in response, the princess said lying on the puffy pillow.
-Okay, I won't argue with you anymore: I'll stay in bed as if I were a good girl.
-You are a good girl, Serena -said Serenity standing- maybe a little prankish, but no matter what, you will always be my little girl.
The queen cleared her throat and returning to her normal, solemn self, said:
-I've talked to the doctor, and he's on his way to the palace, indeed. Try to distract yourself while he arrives.
Serena nodded and the queen left the room entering the sitting room where the prince was sitting on an armchair.
-I have the feeling I've lived this before -said Serenity smiling-. This is the second time we meet here, today. I wonder if it's coincidence.
-Perhaps, or maybe this is just a déjà vu -said the prince with a smile too.
-I saw your mother a little while ago. She was quite worried about you -added the queen informally-. She asked me why you didn't go to have breakfast with everyone.
-It's getting late -said the prince befogging the issue as he flushed slightly-. I better go and see my generals before they begin a search for me.
Not giving the queen a second to answer, he stood and bowing deeply at Serenity, left the room as fast as his feet allowed him without making him look as a fugitive.
-He's a good, clever young man -thought the queen to herself walking toward the door-. I just hope that cleverness of his wont lead him into trouble.
***
That morning, the Blue Hall was unusually crowed. Normally, the guests arrived late after a long, recovering sleep, but that day, everyone seemed to be getting up early. The long tables on each side of the Hall were already filled with both food and people and all of them seemed to be arguing the same thing; it was a fact that rumors ran quickly among royalty, but this day, the gossips were actually flying. These gossips normally involved arranged marriages and affairs, but that certain morning, things were different. The Queen's absence and the Princess' sudden illness seemed to have everyone busy, especially a group of young courtesans sitting at a distant table near one corner of the huge hall. Most guests seemed to be worried or at least shocked by the gossip running among the table, but for those girls, it was quite amusing.
Maire, a young courtesan with long, sour green hair, let out a sigh and said in a way that was between relief and bitterness:
-It was just time for this to happen: in this boring palace never happens anything interesting.
A second maiden, Dearbhla, her hair the color of cooper and her eyes of a deep ochre, added playing with her fork:
-You're so right; we haven't been to a party in weeks…at least now we wont have to deal with that silly little brat for a good while.
-Not having to hear her noisy and annoying voice is nearly as good as going to a ball –said Alannah, a third courtesan, this one with long, light hazel hair and green eyes.
The conversation kept going but there was just one courtesan that didn't open her mouth at all. She was the oldest of them all, yet, she was young and graceful; she had long curly red hair and a pair of eyes like amethysts. Her gaze was deep and penetrating and carried with it a look of regret and sadness.
-You haven't said a word, Methedra, is anything bothering you? –said Alannah looking at her friend.
-I'm fine –said the girl with red hair sighing-, I just had a bad night; I could barely sleep.
Methedra closed the eyes and hiding her face behind her opened fan, she thought:
-I must be more careful next time: I can't let them see that this is actually worrying me…oh, I just wonder when all this is going to end.
Methedra's pondering was interrupted abruptly as the conversation between the other girls began to get interesting. This time Dearbhla was talking and her words seemed to catch the young girl's attention:
-I was wondering –she began with a cruel smile-, if the queen got so bitter when her husband died, I can't imagine her if her daughter dies too, I mean, she would become insane and then it would be only a matter of time before Earth comes and take control of the situation. I would give anything to have Prince Endymion as king: to be honest, there's no work here for a courtesan…
The girls started laughing except for Methedra who was looking now rather angry. She swallowed what she was eating and looking at Dearbhla said:
-What do you mean by that?
-Isn't it obvious? –said Alannah looking proud- The king of Earth can't rule two places at the same time, so he will give the Moon's throne to his son, and of course, he would have to take one of us as his queen to make himself sure that there's still selenite blood in the royal family, you know, to make the people happy.
-And what in this world makes you think he would pick either of you? –exclaimed Methedra- If he were to pick one of us, something I personally doubt, he would pick me, after all, there's a little of royal blood running through my veins.
-Please, don't start presuming your royal heritage again –interrupted Maire-. Anyway, even if the princess survives the bloodline will be interrupted, I mean, she will die single and with no heir. She's so plain and dull and tasteless.
-Stop speculating! Who cares about that spoiled brat anyway, can we just change the subject? –said Methedra not feeling hungry anymore.
-Why are you so interested in finishing the conversation? -said Alannah raising an eyebrow- I could almost say you have a good reason for wanting the silly princess not die.
-Of course not! –exclaimed Methedra blushing, her heart beating fast and her hands shaking- I would kill her myself!
The three courtesans became silent as Methedra finished the sentence, looking at her with wide eyes and their yaws dropped.
-No…no, I didn't mean that –said the girl with red hair quickly trying to repair her *big* mistake- what I was trying to say is that if the brat dies they will surely sent us to live to Earth and that wouldn't be nice at all.
The girls' faces relaxed as they agreed with the fact that living in Earth would totally affect their life of lust and laziness. Suddenly, a fourth girl joined the table. She looked pale and rather angry and her heavy breathing showed them that she had arrived running. The young maiden, who had shoulder length light blue hair, took a seat at the table and catching her breath said indignant:
-You wouldn't believe what I've heard!
–she began- The Queen is canceling the opera! She said that if the princess isn't going then it should be postponed.
-She can't do that! –exclaimed Dearbhla as angry as her friend Grainne, the other courtesan- The little brat can't be that sick! Oh, it's so unfair the queen's canceling the opera, our last chance of having fun, just because of a cold or something.
-The rumors say it's not just a cold –said Maire drinking a sip of her tea looking mysterious-. I have a friend who knows a wizard and he says there must be some sort of magic behind all this.
-What kind of magic can make people sick? –added Alannah sarcastically- I just rubbish! I'm sure the princess is just doing this to make herself sure that no one has fun tonight.
-Or maybe… -said Grainne-…maybe she was poisoned!
-Nonsense! –interrupted Methedra- It's not that easy to poison a princess: do you know how many guards they have in the kitchen to make themselves sure that the cooks won't put anything weird in the food? Tenths! If you ask me, I bet she's only acting.
-Acting? –asked Maire- But why?
-She's just scared of not being the center of attention –said Dearbhla agreeing with Methedra's theory.
-I've heard she hates the earthling prince –murmured Grainne- maybe she's just doing it to avoid being at the royal box with him watching the opera.
-Why are the earthlings going to be there? –exclaimed Alannah- I thought that box was only for the Moon's royal family!
-You know the Queen –said Maire- she always comes out with a good idea to make friendship with those troglodyte earthlings.
-And pulling and daughter and their son together seem to be the best way to do it –said Dearbhla sourly.
-I bet the queen is doing all these to take control of Earth herself, I mean, earthling people is so…weird and wild. A primate civilization if you ask me, and well, faking friendship is the first step to control a planet –said Alannah darkly.
-Maybe you are right, but what would the Queen want with Earth, she is in control of all the other planets –said Grainne- Why would she want sure a worthless piece of crap as that one?
-What a stupid idea! We can't conquer Earth! –exclaimed Methedra- It's bigger so it has more people, which means that it has a bigger army, besides, earthlings are very clever.
-Why are you so sure? Do you know any? –asked Maire raising an eyebrow.
-Not personally –answered Methedra flushing a little.
-Tell us the truth –said Dearbhla suspiciously- you've been acting very strangely today.
-Leave her alone –said Grainne giggling- I bet I know what's wrong with her…
-What? –asked the other girls in chorus.
-Well, I would say our little Methy is in l-o-v-e –answered Grainne winking- with someone from E-a-r-t-h.
-No, I'm not! -said Methedra turning into a deep crimson.
-Then what were you doing yesterday talking on private with his highness the Prince of Earth? –asked Grainne.
-You were spying me?! –exclaimed Methedra standing from her chair.
-No, it was just a coincidence the fact that I saw you at the rose gardens –said the youngest courtesan playing with her blue hair.
-And I guess that it's also a coincidence the fact that you're the one who always tell us the gossips –said Methedra darkly sitting again.
-Well, people say I have a sixth sense that always takes me to the place where the action is talking place –said Grainne laughing nervously.
-So, you were with the prince, huh? -interrupted Dearblha- How is he?
-How is he? I don't know, just like any other prince –answered Methedra feeling uncomfortable.
-Oh, I think someone has a crush on someone –sang Alannah softly.
-Why would I be in love with…him? –asked Methedra contemptuously.
-Because he's handsome…
-And smart…
-And sexy…
-And the crown prince of Earth…
The description ended as the three girls sighed in unison with dreamy eyes. Methedra, now feeling sick about talking so much about earthling men, stood and talking her fan left the Blue Hall without saying one word.
-What's wrong with her? –asked Grainne as she saw the older girl leave.
-She's always like that –sighed Maire-. I think she didn't like being a courtesan as much as we do.
-But if she doesn't want to be one of us, then what does she want to be? –asked Dearblha confused.
-Just let her be –said Alannah, the oldest after Methedra- you would be acting be same way if you had to live what she had to.
-What happened to her? –asked Grainne with curiosity.
-May an other day I'll tell you –said Alannah standing from her seat-, now let's leave, it's getting late and we better go and pick our dresses for tonight: something inside of me tells me that there's going to be an opera after all.
***
After leaving Serena's room, Mina and Lita went directly to the Blue Hall as Endymion had suggested. They were surprised to see the Hall that full, but the thing that really called their attention was the fact that instead of the normal, cheerful chat, the guests were sharing worried words and concerned looks. Trying to ignore this, the two princesses walked directly to the main table were three of the four generals were sitting, talking normally as if nothing were happening.
-Good morning –said Mina talking her seat next to Malachite, as Lita took hers next to Nephrite.
-What's wrong? You two look worried –said Malachite staring at the two princesses.
-Nothing, it's just that Serena isn't feeling too well –sighed Lita.
-Geez, I don't want to see Endymion when he finds out –said Nephrite looking concerned.
-He already did –added Mina matter-of-factly- that's why we're so worried.
-By the way, where's Amy? –asked Lita glancing at the empty chair next to Zoisite.
-She already ate –said Zoisite lifting his gaze from the book he was reading-, the said that she needed to see Rei.
Something about the commentary made both Malachite and Nephrite exchange looks as they started laughing.
-What's the joke? –asked Mina between curious and upset
-Well, I was wondering what great mother of hangovers must be killing that girl –said Nephrite laughing.
-Yeah, I've never seen someone drink like *that* -added Malachite funnily- she must have broken some sort of record.
-That's what I call being drunk! –exclaimed Nephrite as the other guy laughed louder.
-You're right! If she build a scene like the one she built last night, the opera's gonna be a great success –said Malachite not being able to control his laughter-, it's a fact that drunks have a special talent for singing.
A second latter the two guys were imitating a drunk hugging each other and lifting their glasses of orange juice. They were too busy making fun of Rei's "performance" to notice that Lita and Mina had turned into the deepest of all crimsons and their eyes were flashing with pure anger. Mina stood from her chair and graving Malachite by his shirt's neck, she exclaimed ignoring the looks of all the guests:
-You…pathetic piece of putrid, rotten, decayed, smelly earthling second class crap! How dare you talk that way about MY friend?!
-You should be ashamed of being such an impertinent, heartless, egocentric troglodyte! –added Lita slapping Nephrite hardly- I'm going to brake every singe bone of you body if you ever dare to talk that way about one of my friends again!
Hundreds of surprised, silent noble men and women were staring jaw-dropped at the girls who didn't care less and exclaimed loudly in unison:
-What are you looking at? You would do the same!
Then, Mina and Lita left the Hall hurrying toward Rei's chambers in the west wing of the palace. Knowing that Amy was already there gave them some sort of reassuring feeling, but yet, they couldn't help fearing Rei's mood: she was well known for being in the worst mood in the mornings, and now that she would be facing a mayor hangover, the simple thought was scary almost creepy, and strong enough to send shivers down the two girl's spines.
As soon as Mina and Lita reached the door, they had a quick rock-paper-scissors match to decide who would knock, and unfortunately for Mina, she won the match and the "honor" of being knocked of by Rei. Taking air deeply, the young blond hit the door softly as a loud roar came from inside the room:
-Tell them to stop that infernal noise!
-Yep, it's definitely Rei –murmured Lita softly as Amy opened the door slowly.
-Try not to talk to loud, Rei isn't feeling too well –murmured the princess with blue hair as they entered the room in tip-toes. The place was totally dark as the curtains were all drawn and a heavy smell of tobacco and alcohol invaded the air.
-Good morning, Rei –decided to say Lita softly as she looked at the moaning figure lying on the bed.
-Stop screaming! Don't you have the brain you see that my head is actually killing me?! –shouted Rei as she covered her ears with and other pillow.
-What's with her? –asked Mina looking at Amy as quietly as she could.
-She drank way to much last night –answered Amy worriedly- she has a severe case of alcohol-poisoning.
-That sound really bad –said Lita talking a seat on a couch-, have you called a doctor?
-Not yet…the queen will freak out If she finds out that Rei got drunk –said Amy doubtfully.
-But this is very serious, I mean, the word "poisoning" isn't reassuring at all –added Mina.
-Besides –said Lita- the Queen is very busy talking care of Serena.
-What's wrong with Serena? –asked a very worried Rei from the bed.
-She's sick too –answered Mina looking at Rei.
-Okay, okay, but you didn't need to shout! –exclaimed the martian princess.
-What? She got drunk too? –asked Amy concerned.
-She got drunk?! –shouted Rei lifting her head a little-. I will teach that spoiled girl a lesson about the consequences of drinking to much by hitting her head a thousand times toward a wall!!
-No, she's not alcohol-poisoned –said Lita smiling a little-; she just got a bit of fever. We really don't know what it is but the Queen and Endymion are with her right now.
-At least she has a boyfriend who actually cares! –said Rei angrily- I bet Jadeite is enjoying that Neptune's slot company while I'm dying here thanks to him! That unfaithful pig!
-At least her mind is working okay –said Mina laughing quietly as the other two smiled.
-So, what happened with the guys? –asked Amy placing a cold compress on Rei's forehead.
-Which guys? –asked Lita.
-Malachite and Nephrite, I saw them when I left the Blue Hall –answered Amy softly.
-Oh, *those* guys –said Lita sourly-; we just gave them what they deserved: a good punch and a humiliation they will not forget in a good while.
-Why? What happened? –asked Amy this time.
-What happened?! –exclaimed Mina ignoring Rei's look full of pain- that pair of stupid morons were actually making fun of Rei sickness in front of everyone! They embarrassed us! And the whole solar system was there to see it! I won't be surprised if one of those courtesans tells the Queen about that shameful scene.
-I'll kill them! –cried Rei turning from pale to crimson in a matter of seconds- I'll break their bodies piece by piece!
-Calm down Rei! –said Amy helping her friend and other cup of strong dark coffee –you will need all your strength tonight.
-Why tonight? –asked the martian girl after drinking a sip of the bitter coffee.
-Rei, tonight's the opera –said Lita matter-of-factly.
-Oh, no! Not tonight! –said Rei leaning on the pillow- Why tonight! I can't sing like this! My voice still sounds terribly! And I can't keep my head up two seconds without feeling dizzy.
-The doctor will see you in a second –said Mina sweetly-, I'm sure he'll give you something that will make you feel better.
-Then what are you waiting? Go and get that doctor at once! –exclaimed Rei drinking and other sip of coffee followed by a big "Augh! What the hell's this crap?".
-She's right –said Amy sitting on a chair next to Rei's bed- I'll stay here talking care of here while you go and find the doctor, after all, I'm the only one with enough medical knowledge to control an intoxication like this one.
-Fine, you win –said Lita and Mina walking slowly toward the door.
-What do you think you're doing? –exclaimed Rei angrily- Move your lazy asses out of here! I must be in the rehearsal in half an hour! Now move!
***
It was common to hear that books were the best of all friends, and now Serena understood why. After her mother and Endymion left, the princess clutched surrounded by pillows to read a big, colorful book. Something about that certain book made her feel a special fire inside her heart, though, she has read it thousand of times. The books could have years, even centuries, but it was perfect, like the day it was written. The pages had a warm yellowish shade and the ink was dark green. The calligraphy was perfect and it had been handwritten, page by page. Every two pages there were picture, a magnificent of princesses with butterfly wings sitting on flowers and young men with green velvet cloaks and sharp-ended ears.
-"The enchanted world of elves and fairies" –read a sweet male voice aloud as Serena rose her gazed shutting the book closed. A handsome young man was standing next to her with a warm smile on his face. He had long light brown hair that shown behind his long, dark green velvet cloak. A hood covered half of his face but yet the princess could see his white, perfect skin. There was something about this man that made Serena feel weird, as if she already know him, but not being able to find a name for such a mysterious visitor, she asked softly.
-Who are you and what are you doing here?
-My name is Ornedhel, your highness, and I heard you were sick, that's why I'm here –he answered warmly as he bowed deeply.
-So, you must be the doctor my mother called –said Serena more to herself than to the man-. Go ahead and take off that hood: I want to see you face.
-I'm sorry, princess but I can't –said Ornedhel firmly-. There's a rule that says that no druid of my order is allowed to show his face to anyone. It's the code and I can't break it.
-But I have the power to do it and I ask you to take it off –said Serena softly but commandingly.
-Not even a princess can break the millenary code of the order of Aldador –smiled the man- so don't try to do it, it won't work.
-Oh, very well! –said Serena giving up- You may keep that hood, but let's get on with this: I don't want to remain in this bed all day.
Ornedhel nodded and sat on the bed next to her. Carefully, he moved his hood back just a little for his eyes to be shown. Serena couldn't believe it: he had the most beautiful and deepest pair of green eyes she had ever seen. All shades of greens danced in those eyes every time he blinked, like the leaves of a tree being moved delicately by the wind. The young druid raised a little his right arm and moved his sleeve back a little freeing his hand as he placed it gently on the princess' cheek. Next thing, he moved his face closer to hers as the princess moved back blushing.
-Come on! I just want to take a look at your eyes –laughed Ornedhel gazing at her pair of crystal blue eyes.
-Why my eyes? –managed to say Serena- There's nothing wrong about them…
-Of course not –he said warmly- it's just that looking into the people's eyes tells me what's wrong with them.
-You don't sound like a doctor –said Serena doubtfully-, maybe like a bard or a poet but definitely not a doctor.
-That's because I'm not a doctor –he said looking amused- I'm a druid. I use the power of nature to heal, and I can see inside your eyes that you have serious believing problems.
-That's because using plants to cure sound kinda silly to me –answered Serena, her cheeks stained with pink.
-Maybe it sounds silly but believe me, it works –said the druid wisely-. Many times leaves and berries can help more than all kind of pills and potions.
-I still doubt a simple cup of tea is going to cure anything, maybe it'll make you feel warm, but that's an other thing –said Serena folding her arms skeptically.
-You're definitely a rebel patient –laughed Ornedhel- but let's make a deal: do you like gambling?
-Gambling? –asked Serena confused.
-You know, betting on something and getting a prize if you win –explained the druid.
-I know what gambling is, but I really don't get the point –said Serena raising an eyebrow.
-Let's do this: you'll drink the tea I'll make you: if it doesn't work, I will go and call a doctor myself, but if it does, you'll accept that I was right and you were wrong.
-Sounds fair to me –said Serena thoughtfully-, okay, let's do it.
Ornedhel nodded smiling and stood up walking toward the little round table near the window. He took an empty cup and searching in a little bag attached to his belt, he filled the bottom of it with some leaves, then, he filled the cup with boiling water handling it to the princess sitting on the bed.
-Go ahead, drink it all –said the druid.
-Okay, but I hope you're not trying to poison me –said Serena looking at the green liquid.
-My job is healing, not killing –said Ornedhel- now drink it while it's still warm.
The princess nodded doubtfully closed her eyes as she drank slowly the liquid inside the cup. It was warm and tasted like eucalyptus and spearmint, with a spicy touch in the bottom.
-There you are, Serena –said Queen Serenity entering the princess' chambers. She smiled at her daughter and sat on a chair next to Serena's bed as she continued-: the doctor will come in a second.
-What doctor? –asked Serena confused- He has just left.
The Queen started laughing and looked at Serena again while saying:
-At least you still have your sense of humor, now seriously; the doctor will arrive in a minute.
-I'm not joking –said the princess seriously-, he left when you arrived.
-He? –inquired Serenity- Who?
-The druid you sent to see me –answered Serena a bit confused.
-What druid? I never sent druid! –exclaimed the queen- There aren't any druids in the Moon, indeed!
-The how can you explain that he was here, in my room, sitting in my bed just a second before you broke into my room? –asked Serena a tad upset.
-Serena, are you sure the fever isn't affecting you? –asked Serenity placing a hand on her daughter's forehead- You must be seeing visions; no guard has let anyone into the palace but the family doctor. I may suggest you've dreamed it.
-Believe me, mother, I was wide awake when he came here –said the princess convincingly- I couldn't have dreamt it! It was way too real to be just a dream.
Serenity opened her mouth to talk but before she could say anything, someone interrupted her by knocking on the door. She sighed and standing, said to her daughter:
-Wait here, I'm going to open the door: I'm sure it's the doctor. He will agree with me.
As she said, the queen walked toward the other room and opened the door as and old, short man with a bold head and a funny moustache entered the room. He was wearing a dark gray suit with vertical light gray lines and a bowtie. His light blue eyes were shown behind his little half-moon spectacles, and in his hand he held a black leather handbag.
-Serena, this is Doctor Sigismund Paracelsus –said Queen Serenity introducing the old man to her daughter.
-Good morning, your Highness –said the doctor bowing with a friendly smile on his round face and a british accent- How are you feeling?
-Strangely…fine –answered the princess freshly.
-She's been having vision –murmured the queen to the doctor-; she thinks she saw a druid.
-I don't think a saw a druid: I saw a druid because a druid was here! –exclaimed Serena starting to get really upset.
-That is hard to believe –said Sigismund- I've never seen a druid in my whole life, young princess; you must have dreamt it.
-How could I? He gave me this! –insisted the princess searching on her nightstand for the cup where he had served her the tea with the herbs lying on the bottom, but strangely, it wasn't here anymore-. Where is it? Where's the cup?
-What cup, Serena? –asked the queen rising an eyebrow- The maid already took everything a long while ago.
-But Ornedhel took a cup and made a tea in it! It tasted really good, and it was lying on the table just a second ago! –said Serena pointing the empty space on her nightstand.
-Oh, no, now she's naming her fantasies –said Serenity sitting on the chair as if she were going to faint.
-Highness, you better have some rest –suggested the doctor- you're starting to see thing.
-But I feel fine! And do you know why? Because the tea cured me! I'm feeling perfectly! –exclaimed Serena filled with strength.
-Princess, there haven't been druids for nearly a hundred years; maybe it was a ghost what you saw, though I don't believe in such rubbish –said Sigismund laughing, then calmed down and continued-: now I'll check you to see what's wrong with you, so you can have some sleep.
The Queen nodded in agreement and left the room leaving Serena alone with the old doctor taking a seat at the sitting room next to he daughter's bedroom. It didn't passed fifteen minutes when Doctor Sigismund entered the sitting room looking half worried and half amazed.
-What's wrong with her? –exclaimed Serenity worried getting to her feet.
-Nothing! –exclaimed the doctor- That's why I'm so amazed! There is nothing wrong with her, indeed, she couldn't be healthier.
-But how can that be? She was so pale and weak...she fainted for goodness sake! –exclaimed the queen skeptically- She was very sick when I called you.
-I never thought I would say this, your majesty, but maybe someone was in room in her room as she said –said the doctor sitting- there's no other explanation for such a quick recovery.
-You're the scientist! Try to explain a druid in her room! –said the queen upset- I've asked the guards and maids and no one saw anything. If there's a druid inside the palace they would surely tell me! It's just impossible.
-Whatever the reason is, she's not sick -said Sigismund almost as confused as the queen- In my years of practice as a doctor I've never seen anything like this; the only explanation I would give is the princess having healing powers which is nearly as ridiculous as the idea of having a living banishing druid inside her chambers.
-I don't understand what is going on –said the queen worriedly- you must help me find a believable reason for Serena being sick one second and totally healthy the next one. I can't accept the idea of a druid being there, but there must be a reason.
-Your majesty, this theory isn't totally proved but they're some modern doctors who think that maybe some sicknesses are psychological. Maybe the princess was under a lot of stress and became sick for no certain reason healing the same way –said the doctor thoughtfully.
-But that doesn't explain her seeing visions –added Serenity.
-About that, I would have to say that your daughter has a tremendous imagination –smiled Sigismund.
-Maybe you're right –sighed the queen- she has always said that she could see people in the bottom of the garden. Her father always encouraged her in believing in them.
-Then you shouldn't worry that much, your majesty –suggested the doctor- just try to convince her to grow up and left her imaginary druid friends behind. A big imagination isn't always a good thing in a queen.
-You're right, I will talk to her –said Serenity.
-That was exactly what I was about to say –said Sigismund-, now, changing the subject, I'm sure it will be just fine if you let her go to the opera tonight. He's positively fine.
-I don't think so. Seeing how sick she was before it personally scares me to let her go to such a long performance.
-I know it isn't easy, but she's growing up, and you're overprotecting her, your majesty –said the doctor calmly- maybe the only medicine she needs is a little more freedom.
-I don't think she can manage more freedom than the one I'm giving her –sighed Serenity doubtfully.
-You would be surprised, but I think she's old enough to make her own mistakes –said Sigismund in a fatherly manner-. I'm sure going to the opera will make her a world of good.
-I will se how she's feeling tonight, and then I'll take my decision, but I think that by now, I won't cancel the opera –said the queen seriously.
-Wise decision, my queen –said the doctor smiling- I'm sure she will be feeling just fine, but just in case I'll leave you this…
The doctor opened his handbag and took out as a little bottle filled with a purple potion, then gave to the Queen and said:
-This is a potion for dreamless sleep, I'm sure this will help her rest for a good while. She's just tired: all this druid stuff left her exhausted.
-Okay, Doctor Paracelsus, I will –said Serenity smiling-. I will call you if there's any change.
-I'm sure it won't be necessary –said Sigismund as she stood up smiling-. Now I must leave. Have a nice day!
The doctor felt after bowing respectfully leaving the queen alone in the sitting room. She couldn't help feeling worried. A druid? It wasn't something ordinary like an imaginary pink kitten or a weird thing called "Flippy".
-I know this would happen –said the Queen to herself-. It's Hyperion's faults for telling her to believe in those imaginary people she used to see at the gardens, but now, she sound too convinced, and well, I start to doubt it's just a childish hallucination. Maybe it *was* a vision and Michiru knows something about it.
Serenity felt the room expecting to find the young princess of Neptune. For a long time, she has been the queen's confidant in everything concerning visions and predictions. The gift the princess had gave her a lot of importance in the Moon court, but needless to say, the queen tried her best to keep it in secret.
It was nearly midday now so the queen decided to go straight to the opera house where the rehearsal was taking place. The opera house looked much more cheerful that day: the decorations were being put all over the façade and flowers and lights were hanging all over the marble columns. Hundreds of people were running from one side to the other, and "Lakme" posters were put in every corner.
The queen entered the theater using the actor's door and found out a tumult of musicians and singers murmuring and looking at each other. Gracefully, Lady Michiru was standing with Lord Amadeus, the director, trying to rehears with all the noise.
-Michiru, may I talk to you for a second –said Serenity walking toward the young woman as all the people fell to their knees and bowed with the sight of the queen.
-Of course, your majesty –answered the princess as the two women stepped off the stage and sat on the first row to talk privately.
-What is it, my Queen? –asked Michiru concerned.
-I was wondering: have you had any visions about a druid or something like that? –asked Serenity murmuring.
-Let me see, I've been here all morning –said Michiru thoughtfully-. But I don't think I've had any vision about druids, besides, I felt the mirror in my room. Why?
-Oh, it's nothing –answered the queen-. Is just that Serena keeps saying that she saw a druid in her room, and well, that's impossible, so I thought I may have something to do with the visions you've been having.
-I don't think it's related –said the princess-, there isn't any druids or wizards in the visions I've had…maybe she just had a dream.
-I tried to convince her that it was just a dream, but she insists she actually *saw* a druid in her chambers –sighed Serenity-. Thank you anyway. I must let you continue with the rehearsal now.
-By the way, you majesty, have you seen Rei? We can't start without her and she hasn't shown up during the morning. Do you think anything happen to her?
-I haven't seen her today either –answered the queen getting to her feet-, but if I see any of the girls, I'll ask them about her.
***
-The plan's perfect! –exclaimed Mina hiding behind a marble column in the east wing of the palace-. If there's a doctor in the palace he will surely go to Serena's room. Now, stay here, and as soon as he leaves her chambers…banzai! We go and tell him to come with us.
-Okay, if you say so… -said Lita standing behind a column on the opposite side of the corridor.
The two girls stood still, each one behind each own column expecting any sight from the doctor, and finally, a short bold man left the princess' chambers closing the door behind his back and walking toward the pair of columns:
-Okay, to the count of three –murmured Mina seeing the man approach- one…two…three!
The two girls jumped noisily from behind the columns making the man release his handbag making a big disturbance, as the two princesses stepped in front of him as a pair of murderers.
-What are you two trying to do? –exclaimed Sigismund angrily- Scare me to death?
-We were just trying to call your attention –said Mina laughing as Lita helped the doctor picking up his stuff deeply red and very ashamed about Mina's "perfect plan".
-You certainly called my attention –said the doctor still a little upset-, but why did you need me anyway?
-Our friend, Princess Rei of Mars is very sick –said Lita before Mina could make things worse-. We thing she's alcohol-poisoned.
-Alcohol poisoned? –exclaimed Sigismund- That's very bad! If you've told me before I would have gone to her room before seeing Princess Serena, after all, the last thing she needs is a doctor: she's perfectly fine!
-Really? –asked Mina and Lita at the same time amazed-. But when we saw her she was teeming with fever!
-I don't know what happened to her but now, she's positively fine, but it isn't important right now –said Sigismund- now take me with Princess Rei. She must be suffering a lot.
The two girls and the doctor hurried toward the west wing of the palace as they told him how she got drunk, and some details of her sickness. Finally, they arrived the princess' door, and not waiting too long, they knocked as Amy opened the door instantly.
-I'm glad you finally came, doctor –said Amy bowing-, Rei isn't feeling very well.
-I know, Mina and Lita told me about it –nodded the doctor-, by the way, I'm Doctor Sigismund Paracelsus.
Amy shook the doctor's hand as if he were hers colleague, and then, he walked toward the bed when the princess was lying under several blankets moaning.
-Hello, Rei –said the doctor sweetly- how are you feeling.
-Not too good –answered Rei trying to sound nice-. My head's killing me.
-Well, the only things we can do about it is keep you warm, give you a good cup of coffee and three spoons of hot water and baking soda every thirty minutes, and maybe tomorrow…
-Tomorrow? –said Rei getting into a sitting position- but I need to be at the opera house, lets say…now!
-Listen to the doctor, Rei, he knows better than us –said Amy.
-But Amy! My whole career depends on this! –said Rei worriedly.
-Then the only solution is telling the Queen to postpone the opera…you definitely can't sing like that –said Sigismund sadly.
To be continued…
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
You won't believe me but I actually had had this for months *makes that certain "don't kill me gesture" she ever does* but it had been lost (the problem of having lots of CDs without label), anyway, I must confess I'm very busy since I started the Uni, and well, due to many reason I will re-write this story before updating any new chapters.
I really hope you forgive me...
-Lady Susyte
This story is for you all, so enjoy it!
Sailor Moon and all the stuff involving it was created by the great
Naoko-sama, not me! But, in the other hand, the story and some
characters like Arda, Etlio, Calice and Hyperion are mine, not their
names cause I'm borrowing them from Greek mythology and
Tolkien's universe. I know that there are like 1000 Hyperions, but
I'm not taking that name from any fic, so, don't blame me.
Well, if you want to say anything about the story, or just need
something,
e-mail me to:
susyte@hotmail.com
Thank you to my readers! I love you all!
Sincerely,
Lady Susyte
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Rising of a Silver Utopia
By
Lady Susyte
Part I: Never say Never...
Chapter XV
The battle was over and the only thing left on the battlefield was a rug of dead bodies. Not even the air blew thought the sky was covered by a deep layer of clouds, which colors varied between red, gray and black. A heavy, sad atmosphere filled the lonely place, and the only perceptible thing was the dark smell of blood and ashes. Burnt trees swelled on the battlefield as their black color gave a distant idea of what they used to be. Instead of the screams and the swords crashing, the only sound that could be heard in that miserable place was the lonely sound silence, a deep silence only broken by the sound of a horse galloping, crashing the fragile bones lying on the floor. Riding the horse, there were two people: a young man dressed in a shinning golden armor whom face was covered by a helm showing only a few strings of his blond hair. Behind the man, a young woman with long blond hair and deep cerulean eyes, dressed in a snowy white gown, sat quietly with her arms gently wrapped around the man's waist.
-What is this place? -thought the princess looking down at the dead bodies surrounding them- I know I've been here before.
She raised her gaze trying to look at the man's faces. The armor covered most of his features, but she knew he was really handsome, and being with him gave her a feeling of safety. She leaned gently on his back, and even when she was behind him, she knew he was smiling.
The ride seemed eternal, and the landscape didn't seem to change no matter how many yards they advanced. The horses' feet slowly became stained by the blood spread by the dead bodies as its strong legs pushed them toward the hard floor.
The princess felt something cold touching her skin, but no wind was blowing. Almost by instinct, she raised her gaze to the sky seeing a huge maelstrom of dark energy forming over her head. A strong and powerful atmosphere surrounded them as the princess became hypnotized by the round movement of the whirl getting closer and closer. The man in the golden armor turned around quickly as she recovered the knowledge of the situation. It only lasted a second, but beyond the golden helmet, the princess saw a shinning pair of cerulean eyes looking at her. She knew the man was trying to tell her something: his lips moved, but she couldn't hear anything but the same heavy silence. Suddenly, the golden knight threw the lady off the horse, as an other man, this one dressed in a black armor and wearing a long, velvet cape, threw himself over her to protect her as the mighty dark energy hit the golden knight as a thunder. Frightened by the noise, the horse started running misdirected still carrying the man's dead body, and the silhouette disappeared in the distance leaving the princess and the man in the black armor lying on the floor surrounded by corpses.
The princess woke up as she recovered herself from the shock, seeing the man who saved her lying by her side. Getting into a sitting position, she lifted the man's head gently in her arms, and though he wasn't wearing a helm, she couldn't see his face clearly, the only thing she was sure of was that his hair was jet-black. A bitter sadness filled the princess as she started crying. Then sobbing, she exclaimed despaired:
-NO! NO! Please don't die!
The princess' pleads where useless, no matter how hard she tried to make the man answer, he didn't move one muscle. Then, a heavy shadow covered both, the princess and the man. Quickly, she turned around to see that a big, black beast, maybe a dragon, was chasing her. Not even thinking, she got to her feet and started running as fast as she could, but a rock on the path made her stumble as she fell headlong to the ground. She tried to stand up, but it was too late: the dragon was almost over her, but when he threw his powerful claw against the princess, a blinding golden light shone making everything become misty.
***
As dawn became closer, the dark indigo of the sky degraded from a deep midnight blue to a cerulean, almost violet blue, as the sweet melodies from the birds took the place of the fading stars in the new born morning. The sun hadn't risen, but yet, some voices were heard in the corridors, and a few lights adorned the tall crystal windows. Many servants were already up preparing everything for the queen's guests, and their songs, the mirror of their past, mixed with the cold morning air flowing through time expecting the sun to come up. And other voice was heard also inside the palace, but this one didn't belong to a servant, instead, it belonged to the most admired diva: Princess Michiru. Even when it lacked several hours before breakfast, the young lady stood in her room, dressed in a wonderful a-line blue velvet gown with a tear shaped sapphire and diamond brooch embellishing the tip of shoulders v neckline. Delicate fitted wrist length velvet sleeves covered the princess' white arms, and a long, dark blue organza stole with little sparkling crystals all over it fell from her neck to her feet. Her hair was arranged in a single bun and she was wearing an astonish pair of sapphire earrings, a gift from her dear friend Haruka.
With her eyes closed, and her forehead swelling to the sky, she sang Lakme's sad lament, as if it were her own. The opera was taking place that night, and since she got the part, Michiru put all her effort and heart rehearsing all mornings before the sunrise to please her audience. People said that when Michiru was a baby, all the muses blessed her with a special talent, that allowed her not just to do art, but to be a part of it, and this gift was easily visible every time she played the violin or made a painting. Anyway, her talent didn't stop there: her ability to predict the future gave the princess' work a unique touch.
While Michiru sang next to the window, with her hands close to her heart, something made her stop singing as her oceanic eyes opened abruptly: the mirror on her vanity had started shinning wildly as if it were calling her. Quickly, she took the talisman with both hands and looked at it as a vision filled her mind worrying her heart: Serena was in danger.
As the vision ended, Michiru sat on an armchair doing her best not to faint. Her head ached, and her skin was as cold as the mist over the gardens. When she felt better, the princess took her sketch notebook and a charcoal pencil as she started drawing every detail of her vision.
***
Finally, the sun rose majestically over the mountains and trees and shone on the waterfalls filling everything with a peach colored light. The little dew on the leaves sparkled like little stars shinning the plant's life, green and bright, but nothing were as green and deep as princess Lita's eyes. She lied on her bed dreaming, light green blankets covering her body as the little roses embroidery all over the canopy's curtains were projected as little dark pink points all over the princess. The fragrance of all the flowers planted next to her window filled the room with their sweet smell as she delighted herself with the weak sunrays passing through the window. Finally, Lita opened her eyes slowly as she gave herself a few minutes to lie still with her gaze on the ceiling.
After a while, she threw the blankets to the side and sat on one side of the bed as she put on her soft, silky sleepers. She stood slowly as her light green nightgown feel hiding her legs. She stretched herself as she yawned, closing her eyes. The room was calm and silent, and the only thing that could be heard was the birds singing out Lita's window. The first thing she did when she was completely awake was taking a beautiful porcelain sprinkler with her hands as she filled it with water in the bathroom next to her bedroom. As soon and the pot was full, she began watering a group of beautiful, strange plants lying on a table next to the window as she, smiling, whispered sweet words to encourage the plants to keep growing. When she finished, she left the watering pot on the table, next to the plants as she looked outside the window. The sun shone behind the white, puffy clouds giving them a golden glow. Lita breathed deeply the fresh morning air before walking toward her bathroom. After a short, but revitalizing warm bath, the princess stood in front of her wardrobe as she picked the dress for that day. Finally, she careful pulled out a beautiful empire line pale rose dress, with fitted 3 quarter sleeves and a vaporous organza overskirt, and decorating it, the dress had silk green ribbons surrounding the nice neckline, and tied in the front making a delicate bow. Dressed prettily, and with her brown chocolate hair falling down her back making soft waves, she sat in front of her vanity as she arranged her hair in a single ponytail tied with an other green ribbon. In the middle of her dress' bow, she put an emerald brooch that had the shape of a shamrock with four leaves. As usually, she wore a pair of rose shaped earrings made of a strange, dark pink gem only found in Jupiter: her home planet.
As soon as she was ready, she entered her bedroom again, now looking as a real princess, and future queen of her kingdom. On one side of the room, there was a nice, marble fireplace, and next to it, a pair of comfy armchairs. In the middle of the two chairs there was a long, coffee table with a vase full of roses lying on it. On the table, there was also a silver picture frame keeping a small painting: the picture showed four people: three men and a girl. The eldest of the three guys was a tall, handsome gentleman with long curly brown hair falling to his shoulders dressed in an elegant suit. The other two men were twins, both wearing similar suits and smiling brightly. Younger than the other man, the twins had short, disorganized red hair. In the middle of the twins, stood the girl with beautiful curly brown hair. The four people had the same emerald eyes and the same brave smile. Lita took the picture with both hands and lifted it to looked at it closer. A sad smile was painted on the princess's white face as she said aloud:
-Good morning, Laertes. Good morning, Lyzander. Good morning Lucian.
The princess' eyes shone, but she didn't allow the tears to fall. Quickly, she left the picture again on the table and left the room closing the door behind her.
***
The corridor that connected Serena's room with the rest of the palace was delicious lighted by the warm sunrays that now were shinning brightly. The dust particles danced in the wind softly and the fresh flowers that the maids had just put in the big, china vases, seemed to glow with their wonderful colors. It was a perfect morning in everyway, but Lita didn't seem to be enjoying it. She picked a daisy from one of the vases and started walking toward her friend's chambers.
As soon as she was in front of the big mahogany door, the princess knocked it softly once, and then twice. No one answered inside the room and no sound could be heard.
-Maybe she already left or is in the bathroom -thought Lita as she opened the door.
The room was warm and quiet, and the curtains separating Serena's sitting room with her bedroom were half closed. Lita walked toward a beautiful mahogany table where a crystal vase lied filled with assorted flowers. The princess put the daisy in the vase and then, headed to the bedroom as she called her friend's name.
-Good Morning, Serena! -she exclaimed smiling, but she didn't get any answer.
A little concerned, Lita opened the curtain entering the sleeping chambers, were Serena lied in a deep, restless slumber. The princess stepped closer and noticed that the moon princess looked really pale and slightly moved from one side to the other as she murmured sobbing:
-Let me go! Stop chasing me! I don't want to die!
Lita gasped worriedly and ran toward her friend's bed as she shook Serena saying:
-Wake up! You're having a nightmare!
Serena didn't seem to react, so this time, princess Jupiter shook her a little harder and she said louder:
-Serena! Please! Wake up!
Finally, Serena's deep blue eyes opened slowly as she breathed hardly. The princess blinked and looking at her worried friend, asked softly:
-What happened? Where's that thing?
Lita smiled and caressing her blond hair, she said:
-It's gone: you just had a bad dream, but it's over now.
Serena sighed and hugged herself as she said looking at Lita:
-Please, close the window...
-It's closed -answered Lita confused.
-Then why is it so cold? -asked the blond girl shivering.
-What are you saying? It's a pretty warm morning.
-But I'm freezing! -added Serena covering herself with a good set of blankets.
Lita sat on the bed and touched Serena's forehead with the back of her hand, then gasped and exclaimed worriedly:
-You're teeming with fever!
-I'm fine! -said Serena proudly.
-No you're not! -said Lita determinedly-. I'm going to call someone.
-No! Don't do that! I'm fine! Really! -said the moon princess getting into a sitting position.
Suddenly, the door burst open and a cheerful blond entered the room saying happily:
-Good Morning, Serena! It's time to get up!
Serena waved at her cousin, and then turned to look at Lita as she said:
-Mina's right! It's time to get up! I must go and talk to Endymion!
Ignoring what her friend was saying to her, Serena sat on the edge of the bed and then stood up. As soon as she did so, a lot of shinning colored spots began dancing in front of her eyes as the sounds became distant. Her world quickly became black, and though she knew her friends were trying to say something, she couldn't her anything but an annoying beep inside her ears. Her legs became weak and her mind confused, and next thing, she couldn't remember what happened.
Lita hurried to the bed and caught Serena when she was fainting, then put her unconscious friend back on the bed as she said in a concerned way:
-Go and call Queen Serenity. I'll take care of Serena meanwhile.
Mina nodded and left the room while Lita took a chair and placed it next to the bed. She sat there looking at her ghostly white friend looking more death than alive with her lips cold and lacking of color.
Trying to make Serena feel better, Lita stood and walked toward the closet taking out a warm, delicate pink wool blanket as she placed it on the bed covering the princess with it. A light knock on the door interrupted her.
-It must be Mina again -thought Lita as she walked to the door- probably she met with the Queen on her way to her room.
Bending her head, the princess opened the door and bowing, she said politely:
-Good Morning, your majesty.
-"Highness" is okay...but thank you anyway for the "warm" welcome -said a male voice between confused and amused-. I guess it's useless to remind you that I'm not king yet.
Lita blushed into the deepest red anyone had ever seen. She lifted her head slowly and trying not to show how ashamed she was, she said laughing nervously:
-Endymion! Sorry, I thought you were someone else.
-Don't worry, everyone confound me with my father. People says we look really alike -said the prince smiling-. By the way, why are you here so early?
-I ask you the same question -said Lita winking as the prince became as red as she.
-I... -said Endymion stuttering- just came to escort Serena to the Blue Hall for breakfast.
-Sincerely, I don't think she's going anywhere -said the princess looking somehow worried.
-Why? What happened? -exclaimed the prince concerned.
Lita began walking toward her friend's bedroom as she made a little "follow me" sign to Endymion. He entered the room too and his heart broke as he saw his beloved lying in bed, her face whiter than the whitest snow, and not anymore wearing that mischievous smile she held when she slept: her lips made a thin line of a purplish color, the same as her closed eyes. He stopped next to the door and asked softly:
-Is she...is she de...
-No! -interrupted Lita- she's just unconscious -then she made a pause and sighed-: she was teeming with fever when I came to wake her up, and then, when she tried to stand up, she fainted.
Endymion didn't say anything, he just walked toward the bed and sat on the edge next to Serena. Gently, he caressed Serena's white face brushing a few strings of loose hair away, and murmured looking at her:
-My poor angel...
Serena moved her head slightly and curved her lips in what seemed to be a smile, then curled as a kitten and murmured half asleep:
-My prince in the shinning armor...you came to save from the beast...
He raised an eyebrow confused as Lita laughed. He blushed and said looking upset:
-What's so funny about it? She must be raving!
-I won't contradict you, "prince in the shinning armor" -said Lita still laughing.
-I'm serious! -said Endymion this time- her fever must be really high.
-I know it is -added the princess serious this time-. I've told Mina to go and call the queen. I'm really worried about Serena.
A deep silence fell between them as the two princes looked at the sleeping maiden.
-At least she's sleeping calmly now -said Lita softly-. When I came here this morning she was having terrible nightmares. I wonder what she was dreaming: she said something about a "thing" chasing her...
Though Endymion was hearing what Lita was telling him, he looked all self consumed by his own thoughts. He hadn't stopped looking at Serena one second, as if he were trying to find something on her face.
Lita stood and went to sit in the living room. Endymion remain with Serena, but then, feeling that nothing would happen if he kept looking at her like that, he went to the sitting room too and took a seat on a comfy armchair.
-I can't figure out what happened to Serena -said the prince softly-. She was fine last night.
-So, you two made up, huh? -said Lita with a smile.
-Yeah...I guess I can't live without her -said Endymion with a little smile-. I feel so stupid every time we fight...I guess it's because I love her more than my heart can resist.
Lita giggled and looking thoughtful, she said sweetly:
-The first time I saw you, I couldn't imagine yourself saying such nice things: you looked so mean and arrogant: the kind of guy that would never love anyone.
-The first time you saw me, huh? For knowing me just for a few days you certainly had changed your mind quickly -said the prince teasingly.
-No, I'm not talking about *this* time, I'm talking about the *first* time -said Lita shaking her head.
-Then when was the first time? -asked the prince curious-. Have we met before?
-We definitely have -answered Lita-: it was one year before the war started. You and your family visited my parents in Jupiter to sign and alliance in case a war overtook the kingdom, so while your parents were taking care of their royal business, you spent the days making pranks to everyone in the palace with my elder brothers: the twins Lizander and Lucian. You three were inseparable.
-I can remember -said Endymion smiling- they were like my elder brothers. We really had fun, except when Laertes discovered us: I guess he was the only serious one of the three.
-Just as every seventeen years old guy: he had the same "marriage is for the weak" attitude as every heir to a kingdom being pursued relentlessly by his parent's arguments -said Lita trying to remember every one of his features- although, he had a sweet and caring side he barely showed: he was the only one who defended me when you, gang of killers, locked me inside the cupboard!
-No! Don't tell me you were *that* girl! -exclaimed the prince blushing with shame-. I really didn't know! I mean...you look so different now!
-Maybe it's because it happened 12 years ago: I was only 5 years old, and you were the worst ten years old guy I've met! When Serena told us about you after going to Earth, I barely believed what she said about you being... -Lita stopped talking as curiosity born inside the prince.
-What did she say about me? -asked him anxiously.
-Geez, the question should be "what didn't she say?" -said Lita laughing- Let me remember, she said you were really handsome, and that you had the most beautiful smile, and also that she liked you, the way she likes chocolate cake.
-Did she really say that? -asked the prince smiling- I always thought she hated me.
-Hate you? She's mad about you! -exclaimed Lita shaking her head- She kept talking about "that guy in the armor" she saw at the ball. And she still does.
While they spoke, someone knocked the door. Lita stood and walked toward the door as she opened it. This time, she waited to see who was on the other side before bowing, but this time, it was the person she was expecting. Endymion stood to say hello to the queen, bowing politely as Serenity saluted them looking calm and solemn as always:
-Good morning, Lita, good morning Endymion -then she turned to look back at Lita and said- Mina told me you needed to see me. Lita sent a killer gaze at Mina as she asked her softly:
-Didn't you tell the Queen?
-Tell me what? What's going on? -asked the queen a little curious.
Mina and Lita froze as they looked at each other confused, trying with the gaze to convince the other one to tell the queen. When Lita was about to talk, Endymion interrupted, and politely, he said:
-Have a seat, your majesty, I'll explain you all.
Both, the prince and Serenity sat in the living room as he told her about Serena being sick.
***
After Endymion and Lita left the room, Serena woke up with the sound of voices in the other room. She couldn't hear exactly what they were saying but she had been able to recognize some names and words, like "Serena" and "love". She breathed deeply and remained in the bed. She knew that if she tried to get up, she would faint once again. Silently, she made an effort to listen what the two people were saying. The first thing she noticed was that one of the voices was Endymion's. She smiled with the fact and felt like calling his name out loud, but she was feeling too week to talk. Now, she didn't feel so cold, but she was feeling worse. Her head ached terribly and everything had a yellow shade. She made and effort to turn around: the sunlight made her eyes hurt. Finally, she decided to relax until someone entered the room. After a while, she discovered that now, there were four different voices outside the room. A while passed and then, she heard steps getting closer and closer towards the door. She covered half her head with the blankets and faked being asleep.
The queen's reaction when Endymion told her the story was totally unexpected: Mina and Lita could almost see the queen exclaiming worriedly her daughters name as she ran toward her bedroom, but instead, Serenity remained on the chair, quiet and serious as a rock. Not even her face changed, which was even spookier than reaction number one. The queen only acted like this when something was really wrong, and the last time any of the girls had seen that expression was when king Hyperion died.
Endymion turned his gaze against the girls asking with his eyes if he should continue talking or let the queen be next to talk. Finally, Serenity's severe look changed for a sad smile as she laughed sarcastically to herself:
-I should have known... -she murmured as she stood heading to the window- I knew this would happen...
-Majesty, are you alright? -asked Lita stepping closer to the queen.
-I'm okay, Lita -sighed Serenity- don't worry about me. -I know this is hard for you, but I'm sure Serena's going to be okay -added Mina stepping next to Lita.
-If it were only that... -murmured the queen more to herself, then turned to face the princesses and asked- how is she right now?
-She's sleeping -answered Lita bending her head slightly.
Serenity smiled and nodded, then, began walking slowly toward the curtain, entering Serena's bedroom. Mina and Lita also started walking, but before any of them could reach the door, the prince said seriously:
-Don't enter in there: if the queen is feeling as I'm feeling right now, the only thing she would want is to be left alone with Serena.
The two girls turned around and started walking back to the sitting room taking a seat on a couch. For a good while, the only thing the girls did was stare at the prince's severe gaze against the floor. He certainly looked devastated, sad and lonely. They couldn't say he was upset, but his icy eyes burnt with rage. His lips made a thin line and his chin was resting on one of his hands that, at the same time, was resting on his lap.
Mina opened her mouth to say something, but before any sound could leave her throat, Endymion said sadly:
-Don't try to comfort me, it's useless, the same as being there looking so pitifully at me -the prince made a pause and rising his gaze, he continued-. If you really want to do something for Serena, go down to the dinning room and take her place as the real princesses you are.
-And what about you? -asked Lita a little skeptical.
-My place is here, next to the one I love -said Endymion softly.
At last, the two girls decided to follow the prince's instructions and left the room. On the other hand, Endymion remained there, sitting alone. He had felt the gravity on the queen's words, and now he feared something was truly wrong.
Moaning, the prince held his forehead with both hands resting his elbows on his lap as he said angrily to himself:
-This is all my fault! Since I meet Serena I hadn't done anything but make her suffer -then he sigh sadly-: maybe things would be better if I just rush out of her life...
***
The sound of Serenity's steps against the soft carpet was so weak, that she almost seemed like a ghost. This had given her the ability to rush into any place without being noticed, but with Serena, this did never work. Her daughter and she shared a strong bound that allowed them to feel each other's presence even surrounded by the deepest darkness.
Serena didn't need much time to know that her mother had entered the room, so she made an effort to remain static in the bed until her mother decided to leave, but this never happened, instead, the queen walked toward the princess' vanity and looking at the beautiful music box, she said softly to herself:
-I knew since the beginning that this would happen, but yet, I didn't warn you, though, I should -then she sighed and continue-. Nor of these is your fault, but yet, I made you think it was...
Serena was listening every single word her mother said as confusion overtook herself. What was she talking about? Did it have anything to do with her father? She wondered. The way her mother looked at the jewelry box was so deep, sad and full of love that it almost scared the princess. She was thinking about faking she had just woken up, but before she could do that, the queen proceeded:
-It's useless to keep this lie any longer: it's too late now, and though I did my best to prevent you, it didn't work at all. There are some things that only destiny can decide.
Not being able to control herself any longer, Serena sat on the bed and exclaimed really upset:
-I knew something was wrong! I knew you're hiding something from me!
Serenity turned around and facing her daughter, almost knowing she had been awake the whole time, said:
-Perhaps, but I did it for own for your own good.
-For my own good? -asked Serena- hiding the truth is technically lying! No matter what your reasons were, you still lied to me! I can't believe you did that!
Her daughter's fair angriness at her didn't upset the queen, on the contrary, she smiled weakly and walking toward the bed, sat and took Serena's hands as she said:
-I know I did wrong, but it was the only way. I was trying to do was save your life.
-Save my life? -stuttered Serena worriedly- Do you mean I'm dying?
-God, no! You're not dying -said the queen hugging her daughter trying to comfort her- but I can't tell you any more. If I do so, then I would be risking your life worse than now.
-What's going on? First those strange dreams, then this. Why can't you tell me? -asked Serena between scared and upset.
-Because it's a part of the whole thing -answered Serenity- If I tell you, things are going to get worse than they are now, and anyway, you will find out sooner or latter.
-And why not sooner? I mean, if I'm going to die at least I deserve to know why -said the princess sarcastically.
-You're not going to die so stop asking -said the queen definitely.
-It has something to do with my father's death, right? That's why you don't want to tell me anything about it -said Serena after solving the puzzle.
-Don't say that, and please, let your father rest in peace -said Serenity seriously-, anyway, who told you something like that?
-No one, I just had a presentiment -said Serena not wanting to accuse herself for being in the secret room, but she *knew* that the man in the golden armor in that nightmare had to be her father. It was the only explanation. Serena sighed and continue- If you're not telling me anything about my father or that big secret you're hiding from me, at least tell me who's outside: I heard you were talking to someone.
-So, you weren't asleep... -said the queen more as an affirmation than as a question.
-No -said Serena softly- I heard every single word you said, but yet, you haven't answered my question: who's outside?
-Well, when I came here, Mina, Lita and Endymion were out there, but I guess that they've already left.
-I see -said the princess sadly-. I guess I'll have some sleep then...
-That's the best for you -said the queen caressing her daughter's head-. Now, sleep well. I'll call a doctor so he can come and see you.
With this, Queen Serenity left Serena's room as quietly as she entered, going back to the sitting room. She expected to find it empty, but the big surprise was when she found the prince sitting alone on a couch waiting silently. Looking at him, the queen asked:
-Where are Mina and Lita?
-I told them to leave and have breakfast -said the prince simply, his gaze locked in the floor.
-And why didn't you go with them? -asked Serenity this time a bit puzzled.
-I felt it was my duty to stay here -added the prince the same way as before.
-Why did you think that? -said the queen sitting on an arm chair facing the couch on which the prince was sitting.
-Because all of this is my fault -finished the prince lowering his head and closing his eyes.
-No, Endymion, it is not your fault -said the elder woman calmly.
-Don't try to comfort me with your words, because it's useless. Maybe you can fool the scouts, but you can't fool me. I know all this is related to that damned key! And I made her use it! I upset her and made her ran away -said Endymion upset at himself, as if he were confessing the worst of all crimes.
-Calm down and stop blaming yourself -said the queen with the same soft tone-. Maybe the key *did* have something to do with Serena's sickness, but it's definitely not your fault -Serenity made a pause and after a second, she continued- I've hard so much about you making my daughter angry, indeed, but may I ask why?
-I just hid the truth from her...and she found out -said Endymion.
-The truth about what? -asked the queen.
-About the chat we had yesterday -said the prince rising his gaze to the queen.
-So, she knows about the chat now, doesn't she? -said Serenity smiling ironically.
-She does -answered the prince- but unfortunately she found out too late.
-I was wondering, Endymion, why do you know that she ran away? That key matter was supposed to be a secret.
-I'm just good at guessing.
-But terrible at lying -added the queen-. That isn't a thing you can guess easily. Now, it's my turn for guessing: it was Setsuna, right?
-How did you know? -asked Endymion surprised.
-Because she's the only one who knows, or at least, one of the only three people who knows, and well, though one of them is in Pluto and the other one is me, I guess it has to be her.
-She just gave me the "hint" so I could find Serena. The truth is I confirmed my doubts much latter -said the prince feeling almost proud of his perspicacity.
-And may I know why you were trying to find my daughter? -said Serenity finding the fact a bit unexpected.
-I told you, I made her angry. I felt guilty for it and tried to find her to apologize, but well, it came out that she wasn't here...on the moon.
-Do you know where she went? -exclaimed the queen amazed.
-Yes I do, but I won't tell you -said the prince folding his arms and smiling proudly.
-How you dare to talk to me that way. It seems that you forgot who I am -said Serenity a tad offended-. You may be prince and be allowed to talk to me, but I'm still the queen.
-I think you misunderstood me -said Endymion calmly-. You didn't let me finish: I won't tell you, unless you tell me what's going on with Serena and why you can't tell her anything about her father's death. It's a fair deal.
-No it's not! It's blackmailing! -cried the queen indignant.
-Calm down, I haven't finished...yet -said the prince smiling with mischief-. It is not blackmail and I will explain you why: I won't tell you because I can't: I have many good reasons for keeping that information to myself, the first of them is Serena's wealth, so...technically, it's the same reason you have...*but*...if you tell you me what I'm requesting you, I would be sure of why you're treating Serena the way you're doing, and I would have the reassuring feeling that I can tell you without fearing that you may harm her. Now, is it fair or not?
-I'm not answering that -laughed Serenity sarcastically-. Neither the other question. I can't figure out where you got that method to getting information from me, but as much as I want to know where Serena was, I can't tell you, neither Serena. That decision is beyond myself, but I have an other fair deal for you: you stop asking me questions, and I won't tell your parents about this.
Endymion froze with the thought of the queen telling his parents about he trying to blackmail the high queen of the moon kingdom, so, standing up, he said clearing his throat:
-I find the deal quite fair.
Serenity laughed and said:
-I knew you would, now, let's go down stairs to have breakfast. Your parents must be worried about you.
-I'll be with you in a second -said the prince looking at Serena's bedroom.
-I don't think you should see her right now. She told me she wanted to sleep -said Serenity knowing exactly what Endymion's intensions were.
-It'll be just a minute: I need to pick something I lend her -said Endymion inventing one of his famous excuses.
-It's okay, but don't take long. I don't want her to wake up.
With this, Queen Serenity stood from the chair and left the room closing the door behind her back. Once she was outside, she breathed deeply and sighed: she couldn't forgive herself for talking more than she should, but anyway, it was a fact that anything that she said was a mystery to neither Serena nor Endymion. The time in which the truth would be revealed was getting closer and closer, and the only thing she could do was remain silent and delay that time as much as possible.
Before the queen could leave the corridor, she heard some weak footsteps following her slowly, so turning around, she found Princess Michiru looking serious and solemnly at her. Serenity smiled warmly at the younger princess, who bowed and said sweetly:
-Good morning, your majesty.
-Good morning, Michiru -answered the queen-. May I ask what are you doing here so early?
-I had a bad feeling about Serena -said the princess turning to look at the princess' chamber's doors.
-And as always, no bad feeling of yours is wrong -said Serenity smiling sadly.
-You mean something happened to Serena? -asked Neptune worriedly.
-Yes, I fear so -answered the queen softly-. She's sick. I was about to go and call the doctor so he can come and see her.
-We both know that there's nothing a doctor can do for her -said Michiru looking somehow amused with the queen's resolution.
-I know, Michiru -said the elder woman-, but at least I'll be sure that it is what we think it is.
-There's no other explanation -said the princess, then, a heavy a silence fell between them. After a pause, Michiru raised her gaze to the queen and said- By the way, thank you for not letting Serena see the painting: I know I shouldn't be doing such pictures but I thought that showing you my visions may help in some way.
-I know, and I'm glad I can talk to you about all this, but I can't help feeling guilty for involving you when you have nothing to do with this problem -said Serenity sadly.
-When the time comes it will concern all of us. It's better to be prepared -said the younger lady.
-I understand what you're trying to tell me, but I fear I can't tell her -said the queen beginning to walk, Michiru next to her-. I almost confess her the truth a while ago and it helped me to notice that she isn't prepared yet.
-But this is going way too far! -exclaimed the princess.
-Perhaps, but it's better this way -said Serenity looking up at the ceiling- I know Hyperion would have done the same.
-I'm sure Serena knows more than we think -added Michiru.
-No, but I know of someone who does suspect: Prince Endymion is sharper than I thought -said the queen turning to look at the princess.
-And what if he finds out? I'm sure he will tell Serena -said Neptune concerned.
-I'm prepared for that, after all, now he's an important of this game, actually, one of it causes -said the queen thoughtfully.
-Does she know that you know? -asked Michiru curiously,
-No, she's trying to fake that nothing is going on -smiled Serenity-. She reminds me of myself.
-So, what are you going to do now? -asked the princess this time.
-The same I've been doing all these years: sit and wait faking nothing is happening -answered the queen simply.
-Your majesty...
-Yes Michiru?
-May I see Serena? -requested Neptune.
-If I were you, I would come latter -said Serenity.
-Why? Is she asleep? -asked the princess.
-Not exactly, but if you want to do something wise, come and have breakfast with me and the rest of the guests -answered the queen solemnly.
Both, the princess and the queen kept walking silently toward the Blue Hall, not knowing what was happening at Serena's room. Since her mother left, she couldn't get to sleep as she said: her mind was filled with questions, and thought it made her feel so exhausted, she couldn't close her eyes thinking the dreams may come back. She just remain there, lying quietly hugging the big black teddy bear. The queen words still ached inside her heart: the only thing that kept made her wake up that morning was the hope of seeing him, but her mother has been quite clear: he had left.
***
As soon as Queen Serenity left the room, Endymion breathed deeply and stood trying to figure out what he was about to do. It hurt him, but he knew he had to finish with it at once if he wanted Serena to be fine. His infinite love for her gave him the strength to do any sacrifice. Sighing, he moved the curtain softly and entered the room as his eyes caught the angelic vision he feared the most: the sight of Serena with her hair down as gold strings, the silk blankets drawing her perfect curves, and that calm look on her porcelain face made his will weak and his legs limp. The words froze inside his throat as he remained, several meters from the bed, looking at her directly. His eyes were cold and insensitive, but his heart was burning. After staring at her for a long while, he finally breathed deeply and turned around to leave the room, but then, the lovely princess opened her eyes and said sweetly:
-You can stay: I'm awake.
Endymion stopped, but it passed some minutes before he turned around. His eyes were still icy cold, his expression serious. On the contrary, Serena was smiling warmly at him, her eyes shinning brightly filled with love for the man she loved.
They didn't exchanged words, just one long, penetrating gaze. After a while, the smile on Serena's face started to banish as she asked softly looking worriedly at him:
-Endy, what's wrong?
The prince remained as a statue looking at her. Not a word left his mouth, but suddenly, his expression changed: now, his eyes reflected anger and pity mixed in a deep indigo fire. Serena was tented to ask again what was worrying Endymion, but before she could say anything, the prince ran quickly toward the bed and kneeled next to it, resting his head on Serena's lap as he took the princess' hands in his.
-I'm sorry! I'm so sorry! -he said not lifting his head to look at her.
-Why are you so sorry? -asked Serena puzzled and amazed at the same time.
-You got sick because of me! -said the prince holding her hands tightly- If I had told you about the chat I had with your mother when you asked me, you wouldn't be like this, and now...I was thinking something so mean...so cruel...
-I really don't understand what you're saying -said Serena sweetly but still confused-, but if this makes you feel better, I forgive you.
Endymion lifted his head, and not releasing the princess' hands, he sat on the edge of the bed and looking at her warmly, threw his arms around her hugging her tightly. The smile returned to Serena's face as she hugged him back, resting her head on his chest as she said softly:
-I know we saw each other just last night, but you can't imagine how much I missed you- then she made a pause looking into his eyes as she said-. You shouldn't be so sad, you didn't made me sick, on the contrary, you've made me feel much better, besides, it's nothing serious: maybe just a cold.
Endymion knew that what Serena had wasn't just a cold, and he also knew that she, the same as he, knew that. He released her from the embrace, and kissing of her hands, he said softly:
-Sery, just try to be more careful the time next time you use that key. I just don't want to think about losing you, and we both know that thing isn't just a jewel.
-What makes you think it was the key? -asked the princess looking somehow worried.
-The way your mother reacted when I told her about you being sick gave me enough reasons to think that -said Endymion looking into her eyes.
-So, you talked to my mother? -asked Serena smiling.
-I had to: Mina and Lita didn't dare to tell her -answered the prince laughing.
Serena laughed too, but then, she became silent and blushed as she lowered her face. For while, neither of them said anything, but then, Serena cleared her throat and said softly:
-Before leaving, my mother said all of you had left to have breakfast...but I see you didn't.
-Mina and Lita did -said Endymion smiling warmly at her-, I told them to, but I had to stay. I had to see you. When I'm with you, I feel anything else in the world can wait.
-Endy, it wasn't necessary -said Serena blushing into a deeper shade of red.
-Believe me, it was -said the prince bending to kiss her cheek.
-So, for how long have you been there, waiting? -asked the princess this time a bit more seriously.
-Since you fainted. I was waiting to see how were you -answered Endymion-. I was very worried about you.
-That means you haven't eaten anything yet? What kind of hostess I am! -exclaimed Serena angry at herself-. Let me go and get us something to eat.
The Moon Princess sat on the edge of the bed and stood, but the same as before, her sight became misty and her head heavy. Fortunately, before she could lose her conscience, the prince put his arms around her and held her tightly as he said worriedly:
-Serena, don't! You're still too weak to stand up. Remain in bed while I go and get you something.
-I'm fine -said Serena before she closed her eyes leaning against her beloved exhausted.
-No you're not -said Endymion lifting her in his arms as he put her delicately on the bed. Then, he looked at her and concerned, he said:-
-Please, stay here, and don't waste the little energy you have left.
Serena moved her head slightly in what seemed to be a nod. The prince kissed her forehead and walking toward the door, he said:
-I'll be right back. Try to have some rest.
As soon as Endymion left the room, she sighted, and said as a pair of tears left her eyes:
-What's wrong with me? What or who in the world can be doing this to me?
With this, she started sobbing as she hugged the bear tightly.
-Serena, why are you crying? -asked Endymion walking to the bed as Serena lifted her head to look at him.
-I thought that you would be taking longer to come back -said the princess softly.
-I found a maid out there and she said she would bring us the breakfast here -said the prince sitting next to her-. But you haven't answered my question: why are you crying like that?
-I'm scared -answered Serena between sobs-. I know something is wrong and my mother won't tell me what it is. I know it has to do with my father, but every time I ask, she deny it. I really don't know what to do. I'm starting to fear the worst.
-Did the queen mention anything to you? -asked Endymion giving her his handkerchief.
-She said something about bad things happening to me if she tells me anything about it. I really don't know what to believe -sighed the princess.
-Don't cry, Sery -said the prince holding her- whatever it is what your mother can't tell you, you must have faith in her. All I know is that she's trying to protect you, and though she isn't using the best way to do it, you must be patient.
-But...
-Shhh... -Endymion interrupted her by putting a single finger on her lips- no buts. You know I don't agree with what she's doing, but the last thing you need right now is to worry about such things. Lie and try to rest. Crying isn't going to solve anything.
The prince gently dried the princess' tears with his hand as she took his free hand in hers.
-Why are you so good to me? To a *princess*! I thought you hated princesses -said Serena looking into his eyes.
-I do hate princesses, but I also love angels -said Endymion standing.
Serena remained silent for a while thinking about what he had just said and then blushed into a deep crimson as she understood what he had just said. Endymion started laughing sweetly but then a light knock on the door interrupted him.
-Breakfast's here -said the prince winking an eye at Serena before walking toward the door. A young maid dressed in a dark blue gown and wearing a white lace apron over it entered the room carrying a large silver tray which she carefully put on a round table near the window. On the tray there was a porcelain tea pot with two cups, and also a little crystal bowl filled with fresh strawberries. Next to that, a pile of hot pancakes lied on a plate, and finally, a small basket filled with fresh baked french breads accompanied by at least five different sorts of marmalade. The young servant bowed deeply and said leaving:
-Enjoy your food, your highnesses.
As soon as the maid left, Endymion walked to the door and lifted the whole try putting it on the empty side of the large bed as he sat next to Serena. With a sweet, warm smile, the prince started feeding Serena strawberries as she said laughing after swallowing the first one almost in one piece.
-What are you doing?
-Can't a prince spoil his lovely girlfriend? -laughed Endymion feeding her an other strawberry.
-You don't need to ask -answered Serena sweetly-. You know that when it gets to being spoiled, I'm the High Queen of Spoiled Brats.
-My respects to the queen -said the prince bending his head politely, then, he filled the two cups with the boiling raspberry tea as he said rising one of the cups:
-Let's toast for Serena, High Queen of Spoiled Brats and ruler of Spoiland.
-Toast! -said Serena sarcastically as she drank a sip of her tea.
-Come on, don't tell me you're upset at me. You know it's a joke -said Endymion getting closer to her.
-It's not that -said Serena blushing a little.
-Then what's wrong? -asked the prince softly- You were laughing a second ago and suddenly, you became quiet. Tell me what's in your mind.
-Promise me you wont laugh at me -said Serena seriously.
-I promise -said Endymion starting to become really curious.
Serena blushed even more, and breathing deeply, she started:
-Well, the thing is I've imagined several times about having breakfast with you in bed but I never thought it would be this way. I know it's stupid, and I shouldn't have said that.
-Serena -said Endymion looking into her eyes with a little smile-, when are you going to learn that nothing you say is stupid to me? Remember the first day of the festival, when I first kissed you? Well, I meant everything I said. I admire you because you're smart and clever, but I also admire you because you're the sweet Serena I lo...
-Loiter with? -interrupted Serena with a little smile.
-No, the sweet Serena I love.
With this, the prince leaned to kiss Serena, but before their lips could touch, Serena stopped him exclaiming:
-Wait! What if what I have is contagious?
-Then, we'll be sick together -said Endymion smiling as they kissed gently, yet passionately.
The long, tender kiss ended with a sweet smile on both the princes' faces. Endymion took one of the plates lying on the tray and served it with half of the pancake tower as he passed it to Serena taking the other half to himself as he covered it with maple syrup. The couple began eating as they shared a nice chat filled with laughter an unimportant things that, to them, seemed to be the only thing that could care. Not even the best banquet made by the greatest chef of all the Solar System could have tasted nearly as delicious as this meal tasted to the two young lovers that, filled with love for each other, shared as if it were ambrosia itself.
When they were finishing their second cup of tea, someone knocked on the door slightly.
-Don't worry, I'll get it -said Endymion walking toward the door as Serena looked at him from the bed.
She heard the door open and a second latter Queen Serenity was entering her chambers followed by Endymion. The elder woman was looking quite more calm and peaceful than before, and she acted as if nothing had happened. She smiled and walking toward the bed, said taking a seat on the empty side of the bed where the prince was sitting before:
-I see you're much better. The colors had come back to your cheeks, almost as if you're blushing.
The commentary made Serena flush, indeed, and trying not to make the reason of her quick healing evident, she said serenely:
-Yes, I'm feeling much better now. I'm feeling so well that I'm sure I'll be able to go the opera tonight.
-To the opera? I don't think so! -said the queen in a commanding way-. You're way too weak to be going to such a long performance. You must stay in your room and rest.
-But mother, I'm feeling fine! I just needed to eat something, that's all! My sugar level was a tad low, that's why I fainted -exclaimed Serena in her defense.
-I'll wait outside -said Endymion rushing out of the room silently knowing that staying wasn't a good idea.
-Serena, I can't allow you to go to the opera -said Serenity softly placing a hand on her daughter's shoulder- but I know how much your presence mean and to Rei and Michiru, so I'll postpone it for an other day.
-You can't do that! -cried Serena- Lord Amadeus is going to get really upset: everyone has been working really hard for this, and I don't want to be the reason of their disappointment.
-Don't feel that way, Serena, I'm sure they'll understand -said the queen with a reassuring smile- I talked to Michiru a while ago and she was really worried about you. They won't get mad, so don't worry.
-I can't help feeling guilty -said Serena softly-. I screwed up everyone's day.
-You didn't do anything so don't blame yourself -said the queen sweetly-. Everyone has a right to get sick sometime, besides, your health is much more important than the opera.
Serena couldn't help blushing a little with the sincere sweetness in her mother's words. Something in the way she had talked gave Serena the feeling that her mother *really* cared for her, so smiling in response, the princess said lying on the puffy pillow.
-Okay, I won't argue with you anymore: I'll stay in bed as if I were a good girl.
-You are a good girl, Serena -said Serenity standing- maybe a little prankish, but no matter what, you will always be my little girl.
The queen cleared her throat and returning to her normal, solemn self, said:
-I've talked to the doctor, and he's on his way to the palace, indeed. Try to distract yourself while he arrives.
Serena nodded and the queen left the room entering the sitting room where the prince was sitting on an armchair.
-I have the feeling I've lived this before -said Serenity smiling-. This is the second time we meet here, today. I wonder if it's coincidence.
-Perhaps, or maybe this is just a déjà vu -said the prince with a smile too.
-I saw your mother a little while ago. She was quite worried about you -added the queen informally-. She asked me why you didn't go to have breakfast with everyone.
-It's getting late -said the prince befogging the issue as he flushed slightly-. I better go and see my generals before they begin a search for me.
Not giving the queen a second to answer, he stood and bowing deeply at Serenity, left the room as fast as his feet allowed him without making him look as a fugitive.
-He's a good, clever young man -thought the queen to herself walking toward the door-. I just hope that cleverness of his wont lead him into trouble.
***
That morning, the Blue Hall was unusually crowed. Normally, the guests arrived late after a long, recovering sleep, but that day, everyone seemed to be getting up early. The long tables on each side of the Hall were already filled with both food and people and all of them seemed to be arguing the same thing; it was a fact that rumors ran quickly among royalty, but this day, the gossips were actually flying. These gossips normally involved arranged marriages and affairs, but that certain morning, things were different. The Queen's absence and the Princess' sudden illness seemed to have everyone busy, especially a group of young courtesans sitting at a distant table near one corner of the huge hall. Most guests seemed to be worried or at least shocked by the gossip running among the table, but for those girls, it was quite amusing.
Maire, a young courtesan with long, sour green hair, let out a sigh and said in a way that was between relief and bitterness:
-It was just time for this to happen: in this boring palace never happens anything interesting.
A second maiden, Dearbhla, her hair the color of cooper and her eyes of a deep ochre, added playing with her fork:
-You're so right; we haven't been to a party in weeks…at least now we wont have to deal with that silly little brat for a good while.
-Not having to hear her noisy and annoying voice is nearly as good as going to a ball –said Alannah, a third courtesan, this one with long, light hazel hair and green eyes.
The conversation kept going but there was just one courtesan that didn't open her mouth at all. She was the oldest of them all, yet, she was young and graceful; she had long curly red hair and a pair of eyes like amethysts. Her gaze was deep and penetrating and carried with it a look of regret and sadness.
-You haven't said a word, Methedra, is anything bothering you? –said Alannah looking at her friend.
-I'm fine –said the girl with red hair sighing-, I just had a bad night; I could barely sleep.
Methedra closed the eyes and hiding her face behind her opened fan, she thought:
-I must be more careful next time: I can't let them see that this is actually worrying me…oh, I just wonder when all this is going to end.
Methedra's pondering was interrupted abruptly as the conversation between the other girls began to get interesting. This time Dearbhla was talking and her words seemed to catch the young girl's attention:
-I was wondering –she began with a cruel smile-, if the queen got so bitter when her husband died, I can't imagine her if her daughter dies too, I mean, she would become insane and then it would be only a matter of time before Earth comes and take control of the situation. I would give anything to have Prince Endymion as king: to be honest, there's no work here for a courtesan…
The girls started laughing except for Methedra who was looking now rather angry. She swallowed what she was eating and looking at Dearbhla said:
-What do you mean by that?
-Isn't it obvious? –said Alannah looking proud- The king of Earth can't rule two places at the same time, so he will give the Moon's throne to his son, and of course, he would have to take one of us as his queen to make himself sure that there's still selenite blood in the royal family, you know, to make the people happy.
-And what in this world makes you think he would pick either of you? –exclaimed Methedra- If he were to pick one of us, something I personally doubt, he would pick me, after all, there's a little of royal blood running through my veins.
-Please, don't start presuming your royal heritage again –interrupted Maire-. Anyway, even if the princess survives the bloodline will be interrupted, I mean, she will die single and with no heir. She's so plain and dull and tasteless.
-Stop speculating! Who cares about that spoiled brat anyway, can we just change the subject? –said Methedra not feeling hungry anymore.
-Why are you so interested in finishing the conversation? -said Alannah raising an eyebrow- I could almost say you have a good reason for wanting the silly princess not die.
-Of course not! –exclaimed Methedra blushing, her heart beating fast and her hands shaking- I would kill her myself!
The three courtesans became silent as Methedra finished the sentence, looking at her with wide eyes and their yaws dropped.
-No…no, I didn't mean that –said the girl with red hair quickly trying to repair her *big* mistake- what I was trying to say is that if the brat dies they will surely sent us to live to Earth and that wouldn't be nice at all.
The girls' faces relaxed as they agreed with the fact that living in Earth would totally affect their life of lust and laziness. Suddenly, a fourth girl joined the table. She looked pale and rather angry and her heavy breathing showed them that she had arrived running. The young maiden, who had shoulder length light blue hair, took a seat at the table and catching her breath said indignant:
-You wouldn't believe what I've heard!
–she began- The Queen is canceling the opera! She said that if the princess isn't going then it should be postponed.
-She can't do that! –exclaimed Dearbhla as angry as her friend Grainne, the other courtesan- The little brat can't be that sick! Oh, it's so unfair the queen's canceling the opera, our last chance of having fun, just because of a cold or something.
-The rumors say it's not just a cold –said Maire drinking a sip of her tea looking mysterious-. I have a friend who knows a wizard and he says there must be some sort of magic behind all this.
-What kind of magic can make people sick? –added Alannah sarcastically- I just rubbish! I'm sure the princess is just doing this to make herself sure that no one has fun tonight.
-Or maybe… -said Grainne-…maybe she was poisoned!
-Nonsense! –interrupted Methedra- It's not that easy to poison a princess: do you know how many guards they have in the kitchen to make themselves sure that the cooks won't put anything weird in the food? Tenths! If you ask me, I bet she's only acting.
-Acting? –asked Maire- But why?
-She's just scared of not being the center of attention –said Dearbhla agreeing with Methedra's theory.
-I've heard she hates the earthling prince –murmured Grainne- maybe she's just doing it to avoid being at the royal box with him watching the opera.
-Why are the earthlings going to be there? –exclaimed Alannah- I thought that box was only for the Moon's royal family!
-You know the Queen –said Maire- she always comes out with a good idea to make friendship with those troglodyte earthlings.
-And pulling and daughter and their son together seem to be the best way to do it –said Dearbhla sourly.
-I bet the queen is doing all these to take control of Earth herself, I mean, earthling people is so…weird and wild. A primate civilization if you ask me, and well, faking friendship is the first step to control a planet –said Alannah darkly.
-Maybe you are right, but what would the Queen want with Earth, she is in control of all the other planets –said Grainne- Why would she want sure a worthless piece of crap as that one?
-What a stupid idea! We can't conquer Earth! –exclaimed Methedra- It's bigger so it has more people, which means that it has a bigger army, besides, earthlings are very clever.
-Why are you so sure? Do you know any? –asked Maire raising an eyebrow.
-Not personally –answered Methedra flushing a little.
-Tell us the truth –said Dearbhla suspiciously- you've been acting very strangely today.
-Leave her alone –said Grainne giggling- I bet I know what's wrong with her…
-What? –asked the other girls in chorus.
-Well, I would say our little Methy is in l-o-v-e –answered Grainne winking- with someone from E-a-r-t-h.
-No, I'm not! -said Methedra turning into a deep crimson.
-Then what were you doing yesterday talking on private with his highness the Prince of Earth? –asked Grainne.
-You were spying me?! –exclaimed Methedra standing from her chair.
-No, it was just a coincidence the fact that I saw you at the rose gardens –said the youngest courtesan playing with her blue hair.
-And I guess that it's also a coincidence the fact that you're the one who always tell us the gossips –said Methedra darkly sitting again.
-Well, people say I have a sixth sense that always takes me to the place where the action is talking place –said Grainne laughing nervously.
-So, you were with the prince, huh? -interrupted Dearblha- How is he?
-How is he? I don't know, just like any other prince –answered Methedra feeling uncomfortable.
-Oh, I think someone has a crush on someone –sang Alannah softly.
-Why would I be in love with…him? –asked Methedra contemptuously.
-Because he's handsome…
-And smart…
-And sexy…
-And the crown prince of Earth…
The description ended as the three girls sighed in unison with dreamy eyes. Methedra, now feeling sick about talking so much about earthling men, stood and talking her fan left the Blue Hall without saying one word.
-What's wrong with her? –asked Grainne as she saw the older girl leave.
-She's always like that –sighed Maire-. I think she didn't like being a courtesan as much as we do.
-But if she doesn't want to be one of us, then what does she want to be? –asked Dearblha confused.
-Just let her be –said Alannah, the oldest after Methedra- you would be acting be same way if you had to live what she had to.
-What happened to her? –asked Grainne with curiosity.
-May an other day I'll tell you –said Alannah standing from her seat-, now let's leave, it's getting late and we better go and pick our dresses for tonight: something inside of me tells me that there's going to be an opera after all.
***
After leaving Serena's room, Mina and Lita went directly to the Blue Hall as Endymion had suggested. They were surprised to see the Hall that full, but the thing that really called their attention was the fact that instead of the normal, cheerful chat, the guests were sharing worried words and concerned looks. Trying to ignore this, the two princesses walked directly to the main table were three of the four generals were sitting, talking normally as if nothing were happening.
-Good morning –said Mina talking her seat next to Malachite, as Lita took hers next to Nephrite.
-What's wrong? You two look worried –said Malachite staring at the two princesses.
-Nothing, it's just that Serena isn't feeling too well –sighed Lita.
-Geez, I don't want to see Endymion when he finds out –said Nephrite looking concerned.
-He already did –added Mina matter-of-factly- that's why we're so worried.
-By the way, where's Amy? –asked Lita glancing at the empty chair next to Zoisite.
-She already ate –said Zoisite lifting his gaze from the book he was reading-, the said that she needed to see Rei.
Something about the commentary made both Malachite and Nephrite exchange looks as they started laughing.
-What's the joke? –asked Mina between curious and upset
-Well, I was wondering what great mother of hangovers must be killing that girl –said Nephrite laughing.
-Yeah, I've never seen someone drink like *that* -added Malachite funnily- she must have broken some sort of record.
-That's what I call being drunk! –exclaimed Nephrite as the other guy laughed louder.
-You're right! If she build a scene like the one she built last night, the opera's gonna be a great success –said Malachite not being able to control his laughter-, it's a fact that drunks have a special talent for singing.
A second latter the two guys were imitating a drunk hugging each other and lifting their glasses of orange juice. They were too busy making fun of Rei's "performance" to notice that Lita and Mina had turned into the deepest of all crimsons and their eyes were flashing with pure anger. Mina stood from her chair and graving Malachite by his shirt's neck, she exclaimed ignoring the looks of all the guests:
-You…pathetic piece of putrid, rotten, decayed, smelly earthling second class crap! How dare you talk that way about MY friend?!
-You should be ashamed of being such an impertinent, heartless, egocentric troglodyte! –added Lita slapping Nephrite hardly- I'm going to brake every singe bone of you body if you ever dare to talk that way about one of my friends again!
Hundreds of surprised, silent noble men and women were staring jaw-dropped at the girls who didn't care less and exclaimed loudly in unison:
-What are you looking at? You would do the same!
Then, Mina and Lita left the Hall hurrying toward Rei's chambers in the west wing of the palace. Knowing that Amy was already there gave them some sort of reassuring feeling, but yet, they couldn't help fearing Rei's mood: she was well known for being in the worst mood in the mornings, and now that she would be facing a mayor hangover, the simple thought was scary almost creepy, and strong enough to send shivers down the two girl's spines.
As soon as Mina and Lita reached the door, they had a quick rock-paper-scissors match to decide who would knock, and unfortunately for Mina, she won the match and the "honor" of being knocked of by Rei. Taking air deeply, the young blond hit the door softly as a loud roar came from inside the room:
-Tell them to stop that infernal noise!
-Yep, it's definitely Rei –murmured Lita softly as Amy opened the door slowly.
-Try not to talk to loud, Rei isn't feeling too well –murmured the princess with blue hair as they entered the room in tip-toes. The place was totally dark as the curtains were all drawn and a heavy smell of tobacco and alcohol invaded the air.
-Good morning, Rei –decided to say Lita softly as she looked at the moaning figure lying on the bed.
-Stop screaming! Don't you have the brain you see that my head is actually killing me?! –shouted Rei as she covered her ears with and other pillow.
-What's with her? –asked Mina looking at Amy as quietly as she could.
-She drank way to much last night –answered Amy worriedly- she has a severe case of alcohol-poisoning.
-That sound really bad –said Lita talking a seat on a couch-, have you called a doctor?
-Not yet…the queen will freak out If she finds out that Rei got drunk –said Amy doubtfully.
-But this is very serious, I mean, the word "poisoning" isn't reassuring at all –added Mina.
-Besides –said Lita- the Queen is very busy talking care of Serena.
-What's wrong with Serena? –asked a very worried Rei from the bed.
-She's sick too –answered Mina looking at Rei.
-Okay, okay, but you didn't need to shout! –exclaimed the martian princess.
-What? She got drunk too? –asked Amy concerned.
-She got drunk?! –shouted Rei lifting her head a little-. I will teach that spoiled girl a lesson about the consequences of drinking to much by hitting her head a thousand times toward a wall!!
-No, she's not alcohol-poisoned –said Lita smiling a little-; she just got a bit of fever. We really don't know what it is but the Queen and Endymion are with her right now.
-At least she has a boyfriend who actually cares! –said Rei angrily- I bet Jadeite is enjoying that Neptune's slot company while I'm dying here thanks to him! That unfaithful pig!
-At least her mind is working okay –said Mina laughing quietly as the other two smiled.
-So, what happened with the guys? –asked Amy placing a cold compress on Rei's forehead.
-Which guys? –asked Lita.
-Malachite and Nephrite, I saw them when I left the Blue Hall –answered Amy softly.
-Oh, *those* guys –said Lita sourly-; we just gave them what they deserved: a good punch and a humiliation they will not forget in a good while.
-Why? What happened? –asked Amy this time.
-What happened?! –exclaimed Mina ignoring Rei's look full of pain- that pair of stupid morons were actually making fun of Rei sickness in front of everyone! They embarrassed us! And the whole solar system was there to see it! I won't be surprised if one of those courtesans tells the Queen about that shameful scene.
-I'll kill them! –cried Rei turning from pale to crimson in a matter of seconds- I'll break their bodies piece by piece!
-Calm down Rei! –said Amy helping her friend and other cup of strong dark coffee –you will need all your strength tonight.
-Why tonight? –asked the martian girl after drinking a sip of the bitter coffee.
-Rei, tonight's the opera –said Lita matter-of-factly.
-Oh, no! Not tonight! –said Rei leaning on the pillow- Why tonight! I can't sing like this! My voice still sounds terribly! And I can't keep my head up two seconds without feeling dizzy.
-The doctor will see you in a second –said Mina sweetly-, I'm sure he'll give you something that will make you feel better.
-Then what are you waiting? Go and get that doctor at once! –exclaimed Rei drinking and other sip of coffee followed by a big "Augh! What the hell's this crap?".
-She's right –said Amy sitting on a chair next to Rei's bed- I'll stay here talking care of here while you go and find the doctor, after all, I'm the only one with enough medical knowledge to control an intoxication like this one.
-Fine, you win –said Lita and Mina walking slowly toward the door.
-What do you think you're doing? –exclaimed Rei angrily- Move your lazy asses out of here! I must be in the rehearsal in half an hour! Now move!
***
It was common to hear that books were the best of all friends, and now Serena understood why. After her mother and Endymion left, the princess clutched surrounded by pillows to read a big, colorful book. Something about that certain book made her feel a special fire inside her heart, though, she has read it thousand of times. The books could have years, even centuries, but it was perfect, like the day it was written. The pages had a warm yellowish shade and the ink was dark green. The calligraphy was perfect and it had been handwritten, page by page. Every two pages there were picture, a magnificent of princesses with butterfly wings sitting on flowers and young men with green velvet cloaks and sharp-ended ears.
-"The enchanted world of elves and fairies" –read a sweet male voice aloud as Serena rose her gazed shutting the book closed. A handsome young man was standing next to her with a warm smile on his face. He had long light brown hair that shown behind his long, dark green velvet cloak. A hood covered half of his face but yet the princess could see his white, perfect skin. There was something about this man that made Serena feel weird, as if she already know him, but not being able to find a name for such a mysterious visitor, she asked softly.
-Who are you and what are you doing here?
-My name is Ornedhel, your highness, and I heard you were sick, that's why I'm here –he answered warmly as he bowed deeply.
-So, you must be the doctor my mother called –said Serena more to herself than to the man-. Go ahead and take off that hood: I want to see you face.
-I'm sorry, princess but I can't –said Ornedhel firmly-. There's a rule that says that no druid of my order is allowed to show his face to anyone. It's the code and I can't break it.
-But I have the power to do it and I ask you to take it off –said Serena softly but commandingly.
-Not even a princess can break the millenary code of the order of Aldador –smiled the man- so don't try to do it, it won't work.
-Oh, very well! –said Serena giving up- You may keep that hood, but let's get on with this: I don't want to remain in this bed all day.
Ornedhel nodded and sat on the bed next to her. Carefully, he moved his hood back just a little for his eyes to be shown. Serena couldn't believe it: he had the most beautiful and deepest pair of green eyes she had ever seen. All shades of greens danced in those eyes every time he blinked, like the leaves of a tree being moved delicately by the wind. The young druid raised a little his right arm and moved his sleeve back a little freeing his hand as he placed it gently on the princess' cheek. Next thing, he moved his face closer to hers as the princess moved back blushing.
-Come on! I just want to take a look at your eyes –laughed Ornedhel gazing at her pair of crystal blue eyes.
-Why my eyes? –managed to say Serena- There's nothing wrong about them…
-Of course not –he said warmly- it's just that looking into the people's eyes tells me what's wrong with them.
-You don't sound like a doctor –said Serena doubtfully-, maybe like a bard or a poet but definitely not a doctor.
-That's because I'm not a doctor –he said looking amused- I'm a druid. I use the power of nature to heal, and I can see inside your eyes that you have serious believing problems.
-That's because using plants to cure sound kinda silly to me –answered Serena, her cheeks stained with pink.
-Maybe it sounds silly but believe me, it works –said the druid wisely-. Many times leaves and berries can help more than all kind of pills and potions.
-I still doubt a simple cup of tea is going to cure anything, maybe it'll make you feel warm, but that's an other thing –said Serena folding her arms skeptically.
-You're definitely a rebel patient –laughed Ornedhel- but let's make a deal: do you like gambling?
-Gambling? –asked Serena confused.
-You know, betting on something and getting a prize if you win –explained the druid.
-I know what gambling is, but I really don't get the point –said Serena raising an eyebrow.
-Let's do this: you'll drink the tea I'll make you: if it doesn't work, I will go and call a doctor myself, but if it does, you'll accept that I was right and you were wrong.
-Sounds fair to me –said Serena thoughtfully-, okay, let's do it.
Ornedhel nodded smiling and stood up walking toward the little round table near the window. He took an empty cup and searching in a little bag attached to his belt, he filled the bottom of it with some leaves, then, he filled the cup with boiling water handling it to the princess sitting on the bed.
-Go ahead, drink it all –said the druid.
-Okay, but I hope you're not trying to poison me –said Serena looking at the green liquid.
-My job is healing, not killing –said Ornedhel- now drink it while it's still warm.
The princess nodded doubtfully closed her eyes as she drank slowly the liquid inside the cup. It was warm and tasted like eucalyptus and spearmint, with a spicy touch in the bottom.
-There you are, Serena –said Queen Serenity entering the princess' chambers. She smiled at her daughter and sat on a chair next to Serena's bed as she continued-: the doctor will come in a second.
-What doctor? –asked Serena confused- He has just left.
The Queen started laughing and looked at Serena again while saying:
-At least you still have your sense of humor, now seriously; the doctor will arrive in a minute.
-I'm not joking –said the princess seriously-, he left when you arrived.
-He? –inquired Serenity- Who?
-The druid you sent to see me –answered Serena a bit confused.
-What druid? I never sent druid! –exclaimed the queen- There aren't any druids in the Moon, indeed!
-The how can you explain that he was here, in my room, sitting in my bed just a second before you broke into my room? –asked Serena a tad upset.
-Serena, are you sure the fever isn't affecting you? –asked Serenity placing a hand on her daughter's forehead- You must be seeing visions; no guard has let anyone into the palace but the family doctor. I may suggest you've dreamed it.
-Believe me, mother, I was wide awake when he came here –said the princess convincingly- I couldn't have dreamt it! It was way too real to be just a dream.
Serenity opened her mouth to talk but before she could say anything, someone interrupted her by knocking on the door. She sighed and standing, said to her daughter:
-Wait here, I'm going to open the door: I'm sure it's the doctor. He will agree with me.
As she said, the queen walked toward the other room and opened the door as and old, short man with a bold head and a funny moustache entered the room. He was wearing a dark gray suit with vertical light gray lines and a bowtie. His light blue eyes were shown behind his little half-moon spectacles, and in his hand he held a black leather handbag.
-Serena, this is Doctor Sigismund Paracelsus –said Queen Serenity introducing the old man to her daughter.
-Good morning, your Highness –said the doctor bowing with a friendly smile on his round face and a british accent- How are you feeling?
-Strangely…fine –answered the princess freshly.
-She's been having vision –murmured the queen to the doctor-; she thinks she saw a druid.
-I don't think a saw a druid: I saw a druid because a druid was here! –exclaimed Serena starting to get really upset.
-That is hard to believe –said Sigismund- I've never seen a druid in my whole life, young princess; you must have dreamt it.
-How could I? He gave me this! –insisted the princess searching on her nightstand for the cup where he had served her the tea with the herbs lying on the bottom, but strangely, it wasn't here anymore-. Where is it? Where's the cup?
-What cup, Serena? –asked the queen rising an eyebrow- The maid already took everything a long while ago.
-But Ornedhel took a cup and made a tea in it! It tasted really good, and it was lying on the table just a second ago! –said Serena pointing the empty space on her nightstand.
-Oh, no, now she's naming her fantasies –said Serenity sitting on the chair as if she were going to faint.
-Highness, you better have some rest –suggested the doctor- you're starting to see thing.
-But I feel fine! And do you know why? Because the tea cured me! I'm feeling perfectly! –exclaimed Serena filled with strength.
-Princess, there haven't been druids for nearly a hundred years; maybe it was a ghost what you saw, though I don't believe in such rubbish –said Sigismund laughing, then calmed down and continued-: now I'll check you to see what's wrong with you, so you can have some sleep.
The Queen nodded in agreement and left the room leaving Serena alone with the old doctor taking a seat at the sitting room next to he daughter's bedroom. It didn't passed fifteen minutes when Doctor Sigismund entered the sitting room looking half worried and half amazed.
-What's wrong with her? –exclaimed Serenity worried getting to her feet.
-Nothing! –exclaimed the doctor- That's why I'm so amazed! There is nothing wrong with her, indeed, she couldn't be healthier.
-But how can that be? She was so pale and weak...she fainted for goodness sake! –exclaimed the queen skeptically- She was very sick when I called you.
-I never thought I would say this, your majesty, but maybe someone was in room in her room as she said –said the doctor sitting- there's no other explanation for such a quick recovery.
-You're the scientist! Try to explain a druid in her room! –said the queen upset- I've asked the guards and maids and no one saw anything. If there's a druid inside the palace they would surely tell me! It's just impossible.
-Whatever the reason is, she's not sick -said Sigismund almost as confused as the queen- In my years of practice as a doctor I've never seen anything like this; the only explanation I would give is the princess having healing powers which is nearly as ridiculous as the idea of having a living banishing druid inside her chambers.
-I don't understand what is going on –said the queen worriedly- you must help me find a believable reason for Serena being sick one second and totally healthy the next one. I can't accept the idea of a druid being there, but there must be a reason.
-Your majesty, this theory isn't totally proved but they're some modern doctors who think that maybe some sicknesses are psychological. Maybe the princess was under a lot of stress and became sick for no certain reason healing the same way –said the doctor thoughtfully.
-But that doesn't explain her seeing visions –added Serenity.
-About that, I would have to say that your daughter has a tremendous imagination –smiled Sigismund.
-Maybe you're right –sighed the queen- she has always said that she could see people in the bottom of the garden. Her father always encouraged her in believing in them.
-Then you shouldn't worry that much, your majesty –suggested the doctor- just try to convince her to grow up and left her imaginary druid friends behind. A big imagination isn't always a good thing in a queen.
-You're right, I will talk to her –said Serenity.
-That was exactly what I was about to say –said Sigismund-, now, changing the subject, I'm sure it will be just fine if you let her go to the opera tonight. He's positively fine.
-I don't think so. Seeing how sick she was before it personally scares me to let her go to such a long performance.
-I know it isn't easy, but she's growing up, and you're overprotecting her, your majesty –said the doctor calmly- maybe the only medicine she needs is a little more freedom.
-I don't think she can manage more freedom than the one I'm giving her –sighed Serenity doubtfully.
-You would be surprised, but I think she's old enough to make her own mistakes –said Sigismund in a fatherly manner-. I'm sure going to the opera will make her a world of good.
-I will se how she's feeling tonight, and then I'll take my decision, but I think that by now, I won't cancel the opera –said the queen seriously.
-Wise decision, my queen –said the doctor smiling- I'm sure she will be feeling just fine, but just in case I'll leave you this…
The doctor opened his handbag and took out as a little bottle filled with a purple potion, then gave to the Queen and said:
-This is a potion for dreamless sleep, I'm sure this will help her rest for a good while. She's just tired: all this druid stuff left her exhausted.
-Okay, Doctor Paracelsus, I will –said Serenity smiling-. I will call you if there's any change.
-I'm sure it won't be necessary –said Sigismund as she stood up smiling-. Now I must leave. Have a nice day!
The doctor felt after bowing respectfully leaving the queen alone in the sitting room. She couldn't help feeling worried. A druid? It wasn't something ordinary like an imaginary pink kitten or a weird thing called "Flippy".
-I know this would happen –said the Queen to herself-. It's Hyperion's faults for telling her to believe in those imaginary people she used to see at the gardens, but now, she sound too convinced, and well, I start to doubt it's just a childish hallucination. Maybe it *was* a vision and Michiru knows something about it.
Serenity felt the room expecting to find the young princess of Neptune. For a long time, she has been the queen's confidant in everything concerning visions and predictions. The gift the princess had gave her a lot of importance in the Moon court, but needless to say, the queen tried her best to keep it in secret.
It was nearly midday now so the queen decided to go straight to the opera house where the rehearsal was taking place. The opera house looked much more cheerful that day: the decorations were being put all over the façade and flowers and lights were hanging all over the marble columns. Hundreds of people were running from one side to the other, and "Lakme" posters were put in every corner.
The queen entered the theater using the actor's door and found out a tumult of musicians and singers murmuring and looking at each other. Gracefully, Lady Michiru was standing with Lord Amadeus, the director, trying to rehears with all the noise.
-Michiru, may I talk to you for a second –said Serenity walking toward the young woman as all the people fell to their knees and bowed with the sight of the queen.
-Of course, your majesty –answered the princess as the two women stepped off the stage and sat on the first row to talk privately.
-What is it, my Queen? –asked Michiru concerned.
-I was wondering: have you had any visions about a druid or something like that? –asked Serenity murmuring.
-Let me see, I've been here all morning –said Michiru thoughtfully-. But I don't think I've had any vision about druids, besides, I felt the mirror in my room. Why?
-Oh, it's nothing –answered the queen-. Is just that Serena keeps saying that she saw a druid in her room, and well, that's impossible, so I thought I may have something to do with the visions you've been having.
-I don't think it's related –said the princess-, there isn't any druids or wizards in the visions I've had…maybe she just had a dream.
-I tried to convince her that it was just a dream, but she insists she actually *saw* a druid in her chambers –sighed Serenity-. Thank you anyway. I must let you continue with the rehearsal now.
-By the way, you majesty, have you seen Rei? We can't start without her and she hasn't shown up during the morning. Do you think anything happen to her?
-I haven't seen her today either –answered the queen getting to her feet-, but if I see any of the girls, I'll ask them about her.
***
-The plan's perfect! –exclaimed Mina hiding behind a marble column in the east wing of the palace-. If there's a doctor in the palace he will surely go to Serena's room. Now, stay here, and as soon as he leaves her chambers…banzai! We go and tell him to come with us.
-Okay, if you say so… -said Lita standing behind a column on the opposite side of the corridor.
The two girls stood still, each one behind each own column expecting any sight from the doctor, and finally, a short bold man left the princess' chambers closing the door behind his back and walking toward the pair of columns:
-Okay, to the count of three –murmured Mina seeing the man approach- one…two…three!
The two girls jumped noisily from behind the columns making the man release his handbag making a big disturbance, as the two princesses stepped in front of him as a pair of murderers.
-What are you two trying to do? –exclaimed Sigismund angrily- Scare me to death?
-We were just trying to call your attention –said Mina laughing as Lita helped the doctor picking up his stuff deeply red and very ashamed about Mina's "perfect plan".
-You certainly called my attention –said the doctor still a little upset-, but why did you need me anyway?
-Our friend, Princess Rei of Mars is very sick –said Lita before Mina could make things worse-. We thing she's alcohol-poisoned.
-Alcohol poisoned? –exclaimed Sigismund- That's very bad! If you've told me before I would have gone to her room before seeing Princess Serena, after all, the last thing she needs is a doctor: she's perfectly fine!
-Really? –asked Mina and Lita at the same time amazed-. But when we saw her she was teeming with fever!
-I don't know what happened to her but now, she's positively fine, but it isn't important right now –said Sigismund- now take me with Princess Rei. She must be suffering a lot.
The two girls and the doctor hurried toward the west wing of the palace as they told him how she got drunk, and some details of her sickness. Finally, they arrived the princess' door, and not waiting too long, they knocked as Amy opened the door instantly.
-I'm glad you finally came, doctor –said Amy bowing-, Rei isn't feeling very well.
-I know, Mina and Lita told me about it –nodded the doctor-, by the way, I'm Doctor Sigismund Paracelsus.
Amy shook the doctor's hand as if he were hers colleague, and then, he walked toward the bed when the princess was lying under several blankets moaning.
-Hello, Rei –said the doctor sweetly- how are you feeling.
-Not too good –answered Rei trying to sound nice-. My head's killing me.
-Well, the only things we can do about it is keep you warm, give you a good cup of coffee and three spoons of hot water and baking soda every thirty minutes, and maybe tomorrow…
-Tomorrow? –said Rei getting into a sitting position- but I need to be at the opera house, lets say…now!
-Listen to the doctor, Rei, he knows better than us –said Amy.
-But Amy! My whole career depends on this! –said Rei worriedly.
-Then the only solution is telling the Queen to postpone the opera…you definitely can't sing like that –said Sigismund sadly.
To be continued…
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
You won't believe me but I actually had had this for months *makes that certain "don't kill me gesture" she ever does* but it had been lost (the problem of having lots of CDs without label), anyway, I must confess I'm very busy since I started the Uni, and well, due to many reason I will re-write this story before updating any new chapters.
I really hope you forgive me...
-Lady Susyte
