WOW! Like six reviews for that last chapter!!! Me very happy!! Thank you to
Pyrochic - thank you for reviewing. Considering that I still do not have regular access to the net, I think I am doing pretty well. I have been updating every four or five days, I know some authors who only update monthly. But I will try to type faster; I have been having trouble deciding what will happen next.
Ocianne - I am not sure about a sequel. I have noticed that most sequels are never as good as the first. And I most probably would not be doing a canon silver millennium ending though I did consider it seriously. Thank you for the inspiration.
Are my chapters too long or too short? Am I being too blunt, do I need to describe setting more? Help on my writing style please.
And would you rather I type quicker shorter chapters or take longer on longer chapters?
Talked too much, sorry ....on with the show......
Chapter Fourteen
On a chilly yet still sunny autumn day, outside the Palace stables, five men were waiting.....
Four Generals and a very impatient Prince were waiting anxiously. They were raring to go but Princess Serena as most girls are, was late.
'I knew it!' muttered Darien darkly. 'Perhaps we should just leave without her that will teach her a lesson!' Even while pacing and muttering, the Generals knew he wasn't serious. The Princess had still not forgiven him and he did not wish to anger her further.
The Generals fidgeted. More than one of them had a sleepless night, lying awake imagining what horror befalling a certain Princess. Guilt coursing through them as they realized if it weren't for them the girls wouldn't be in this mess.
'Anyone who falls behind, gets left behind,' said Malachite sternly. (From POTC. I love that movie!! ^-^!) 'And,' he continued, 'If they never show up, we can say that we thought they weren't coming.'
'A girl's whims, just like her moods, changes like the weather.' Added Jadeite for good measure.
Darien sighed. 'Then let us prepare the horses,' he said defeated. He really did not want to hurt her anymore. Leaving now would just be like abandoning her.
Surprise was evident on all their faces when the large stable doors opened and singing floated to their ears. It was a soft crooning lilting coming from one of the stalls.
Serena had thought that they might leave early to try to 'protect' her. She had logically assumed that they would be going by horse and had waited for them here. However being around the horses had reminded her of Lita who at one stage was horse crazy. Lita had gone riding everyday and it was her who had taught Serena who was scared of the giant looming creatures.
Worry nibbled at her. She had no doubt that the girls could take care of themselves; they were after all the Sailor Senshi. It was just that there were several hundred men and the Senshi might forget themselves when caring for the other girls of the village. She had always fought alongside them and now, knowing that they fought without her was gnawing at her heart.
'Princess?' queried Darien. 'How long have you been here?'
'Since this morning,' she said truthfully.
Darien chose not to comment, as the Generals were getting antsy. After organizing the animals and supplies, they mounted. Darien frowned as he noticed the dress that Serena was wearing. It was a soft flowing garment, deep purple in colour and it reached down to her ankles. It was sleeveless and had a V-neckline and on each shoulder was a golden heart shaped clasp. Along with this, as winter was fast approaching, she had a snow white fur trimmed cloak with a hood. Her hair was in its usual style, two round buns on either side of her head.
'Although you look rather pretty and very nice,' commented Darien as they began to trot their horses to the gates, 'is it practical to wear that dress? Are you not afraid of ruining it?'
Serena blinked at that comment. (A/n She is riding sidesaddle) 'Dresses are made to be worn,' she said reasonably, 'if it rips then I shall have a new one made. What is wrong with this dress? It is very comfortable and warm and keeps the chill out. Perfect for traveling.'
'You would have noticed that there are no servants on this mission, haven't you? We will be camping outside not staying at some fancy inn or lodge. It will be rough and the food rather coarse compared to what you are used to.'
Serena smiled to herself. He made it sound like she has never been outside before. It hit her then that Prince Darien did not know that she was a Senshi. Perhaps he did not know what a Senshi was. From an early age Serena had trained with the girls and together they had gone through the streets of the Kingdom helping out the people. It was as her mother said, 'As Queen one day, you have to put your people first. Eventually you will rule and lead them but first you have to serve them. Get out and see for yourself how the people live. Help them because there are some things that only you can do for them.'
And that was how the people accepted Serena as Princess, not only lovable and with a kind heart but also as a protector who put her people before herself.
Darien watched the petite girl. She had made no reply and had looked like she was deep in thought. he thought hopefully.
Serena pulled away from her musings and noticed the Prince's stare. Casting her mind back to what he said she replied, 'Do you know what a Senshi is?'
Darien was taken aback. He answered as best he could at the random question, 'The Senshi are your protectors and court. They follow you around and make sure you do not get into trouble. They are the Princesses we are now intent on rescuing.' He paused noticing her contemplative look.
thought Serena.
(Btw, the girls do not have magical abilities like shooting fireballs or bubbles in this fic. They fight with swords and weapons and are very skilled. Only Serena has the power to heal but that is not mega strong.)
'I understand perfectly,' said Serena, 'I will not be expecting anyone to wait on me hand and foot.'
Darien nodded. he thought grimly, a woman complaining incessantly was one of the most annoying things on earth.
@~@~@~@~@
They had now left the city and were passing through a forest. It was mid afternoon and Serena was rather bored. The men rarely talked and by the looks of it, always traveled in silence. They scouted ahead and behind and were on constant alert.
When Malachite made to check their trail again she asked, 'Do you think that it is absolutely necessary to do that again? At the pace we are going it will take weeks and possibly months instead of days to get there!'
Malachite arched an eyebrow at Serena's little outburst. 'Danger is everywhere milady. Caution should always be used for you never know when there are spies lurking.'
Serena sighed. The Queen had said stealth was the best approach. But the thought that the girls could be in danger now caused her to speak again. 'Lita could be getting tortured at this very instant. Does she cry in pain as the brand or rope is applied again and again? Does Ami whimper at the sight of violence as it appalls her so? Reason and argument are always her chosen approach. Is Raye getting beaten because of her sharp tongue and insolent looks? She never reacts well with captivity or vulnerability. Is Mina being used by a bunch of heartless men, for she is a beauty that they will rarely see. Is her dress all torn and grimy, is blood running down her leg? Does she hide her tears so that the other girls won't worry?' her words weaved a scene of such vividness that the Generals shuddered.
'You are right, danger is always present but as we dawdle now, the girls could be in present danger. There is a time and place for caution and now is not it.'
'Let us go quicker than,' cried Jadeite for he could very well see Raye being beaten for her sharp tongue.
Zoicite however was more reasonable, 'We cannot cripple the horses, and surprise is our best strategy. Let us not lose that.'
They agreed to go faster but not at breakneck speed. They made it through the forest and decided to camp at the edge as it was nightfall.
The men dismounted and set up camp efficiently. They were surprised as Serena helped with the chores, where did a Princess learn how to find wood and set up her bedroll with such ease? 'They do things differently on the Moon,' commented Nephrite softly as Serena built a fire.
They ate sausages for dinner and afterwards sat around the fire companionably.
After a while of silence, Serena questioned, 'Do you not tell stories around a campfire? Sing songs? Play music and dance?'
'Like I said, very differently.' Said Nephrite as the men looked at each other.
'Princess,' started Zoicite.
'Serena,' cut in Serena, 'Call me Serena.'
'Serena,' began Zoicite, 'May I ask where did you acquire your knowledge of camping skills and duties?'
Serena smiled. 'There was a time in our lives; I think I was seven, where the girls and I wished to be hunters. We convinced the Queen to let us spend a few nights in the forest that borders the palace. She reluctantly agreed but set certain conditions. We had to go through a week of posture classes willingly before she agreed. She also sent the Royal Huntsman and his apprentice to look after us.'
'And they taught you?' questioned Nephrite intrigued. None of the princesses on earth ever wanted to be hunters.
'Yes. We had spent the whole day hunting many numerous large and horrible beasts. Taming lions, tigers and bears. Became mortally and fatally wounded and very close to death before one of us would find a miracle cure. That night, we had a tea party with ghosts in a haunted cave then danced with the fairies and their Queen. The Royal Huntsman David would teach us while we played. He showed us herb lore and where to find edible berries and roots. He showed us how to disguise our trails and hide when danger was apparent. We had a wonderful time.'
'And this was when you told stories, and sang songs and danced around a campfire?' asked Jadeite.
'Of course. Ami would play her little flute, and Raye and I would sing while Mina and Lita danced. The huntsman's apprentice told the most magical stories.'
'Do you still want to be a hunter?' questioned Darien with a smile.
'Well, like most things we grew out of it and went on to something else.' Serena did not mention that the Queen had decided that it was a good idea for the girls to know survival in the wild and made it part of their training.
'Did the Lady Ami always play the flute?' asked Zoicite as he withdrew from his chest pocket the small blue bamboo flute.
Serena gasped. That was one of Ami's most treasured possessions. 'How did you come by that?'
Zoicite grinned sheepishly. 'She dropped it the other night in the rose gardens and I picked it up.'
'You must return it immediately to her when you have the chance,' instructed Serena for the flute had sentimental value.
'When did you meet Lady Ami?' asked Malachite, trying to break the tension that was growing between Zoicite and Serena.
'She came to my court when she was very young,' said Serena guardedly, abruptly she stood up. 'I am going to bed now, I believe we will leave early tomorrow.' It was not a statement or a question, it was an order.
The men watched as she retired to her bedroll. They had not missed the order though subtly veiled as it was.
@~@~@~@
Serena gazed at the half-moon. She could not sleep and had gone for a short walk to find this clearing. She was now perched on a very large rock.
The talk around the campfire reminded her of how much she missed the girls. The Generals were nice but it didn't compare to having her sisters who would laugh and sing and argue. The Generals have no life to them, she decided, they need to have fun.
A crack caused her to whip around but before she could scream a voice said softly, 'It is only I Princess.'
Stepping into the moonlight, was General Zoicite. 'I saw and decided to follow.' He explained.
Serena gestured welcomingly at the spot next to her.
'Can't sleep?' she questioned.
'I am sorry.' He said abruptly.
'For what?' asked Serena.
'I don't know. Well actually I do. For hurting Ami.'
'Mayhap you are saying this to the wrong girl. She needs to hear it not I.'
'I know. But earlier tonight, I seemed to have offended you.'
'It was nothing.'
'Tell me, what is the significance of this flute?'
He catches on quick, thought Serena. She hesitated.
'Has Ami told you anything?'
He shook his head.
'I don't think it is my place to tell her secrets.'
'But I would like to know what has affected her so. I would not like to cause her any more unnecessary pain. Unintentionally I have offended you; I would not do that to Ami as well.'
Serena fidgeted. She could see his logic but still. Would Ami be mad? She wondered.
'All of the girls are orphans in one way or another, not technically but they consider themselves so since they have come to the court.' She began, she would only tell the parts that could be known with a bit of research.
'I met Ami once. Before she came to be a part of my court. I was visiting the planet Mercury with my mother. They had a concert you see, a royal family concert. Quite common among them I hear as they are lovers of music.'
'And?' asked Zoi when she paused.
'Ami was no different. At the age of three she could play the flute so well. The tunes and melody were simple yet when played with her family, it was like magic. Her father played the violin and her mother the piano. Their music could have you feeling so happy or so sad that you would cry.'
'Go on,' he prompted.
'There was an earthquake. Her parents were touring the Kingdom as is their custom but Ami did not go. The entire entourage died that summer day. Her uncle now rules Mercury in Ami's stead, until Ami comes of age.'
'The flute reminds her of her family then?'
'It was made by her father, just for her. She came to my court soon after, she was the very first. Ami was so quiet back then. She rarely spoke and often ran away to hide and play her flute. She needs it.'
'I see the sentimental value but is it not like..... well, a security blanket?'
'It is the only thing left of her parents and she has a right to it!' Serena snapped, defensively.
'You wouldn't understand.' She said and made her way back to her bedroll.
'No,' said Zoicite softly at her retreating back. 'I guess I wouldn't.'
@~@~@~@~@
Criticism welcome. Plz review! ^-^!
Pyrochic - thank you for reviewing. Considering that I still do not have regular access to the net, I think I am doing pretty well. I have been updating every four or five days, I know some authors who only update monthly. But I will try to type faster; I have been having trouble deciding what will happen next.
Ocianne - I am not sure about a sequel. I have noticed that most sequels are never as good as the first. And I most probably would not be doing a canon silver millennium ending though I did consider it seriously. Thank you for the inspiration.
Are my chapters too long or too short? Am I being too blunt, do I need to describe setting more? Help on my writing style please.
And would you rather I type quicker shorter chapters or take longer on longer chapters?
Talked too much, sorry ....on with the show......
Chapter Fourteen
On a chilly yet still sunny autumn day, outside the Palace stables, five men were waiting.....
Four Generals and a very impatient Prince were waiting anxiously. They were raring to go but Princess Serena as most girls are, was late.
'I knew it!' muttered Darien darkly. 'Perhaps we should just leave without her that will teach her a lesson!' Even while pacing and muttering, the Generals knew he wasn't serious. The Princess had still not forgiven him and he did not wish to anger her further.
The Generals fidgeted. More than one of them had a sleepless night, lying awake imagining what horror befalling a certain Princess. Guilt coursing through them as they realized if it weren't for them the girls wouldn't be in this mess.
'Anyone who falls behind, gets left behind,' said Malachite sternly. (From POTC. I love that movie!! ^-^!) 'And,' he continued, 'If they never show up, we can say that we thought they weren't coming.'
'A girl's whims, just like her moods, changes like the weather.' Added Jadeite for good measure.
Darien sighed. 'Then let us prepare the horses,' he said defeated. He really did not want to hurt her anymore. Leaving now would just be like abandoning her.
Surprise was evident on all their faces when the large stable doors opened and singing floated to their ears. It was a soft crooning lilting coming from one of the stalls.
Serena had thought that they might leave early to try to 'protect' her. She had logically assumed that they would be going by horse and had waited for them here. However being around the horses had reminded her of Lita who at one stage was horse crazy. Lita had gone riding everyday and it was her who had taught Serena who was scared of the giant looming creatures.
Worry nibbled at her. She had no doubt that the girls could take care of themselves; they were after all the Sailor Senshi. It was just that there were several hundred men and the Senshi might forget themselves when caring for the other girls of the village. She had always fought alongside them and now, knowing that they fought without her was gnawing at her heart.
'Princess?' queried Darien. 'How long have you been here?'
'Since this morning,' she said truthfully.
Darien chose not to comment, as the Generals were getting antsy. After organizing the animals and supplies, they mounted. Darien frowned as he noticed the dress that Serena was wearing. It was a soft flowing garment, deep purple in colour and it reached down to her ankles. It was sleeveless and had a V-neckline and on each shoulder was a golden heart shaped clasp. Along with this, as winter was fast approaching, she had a snow white fur trimmed cloak with a hood. Her hair was in its usual style, two round buns on either side of her head.
'Although you look rather pretty and very nice,' commented Darien as they began to trot their horses to the gates, 'is it practical to wear that dress? Are you not afraid of ruining it?'
Serena blinked at that comment. (A/n She is riding sidesaddle) 'Dresses are made to be worn,' she said reasonably, 'if it rips then I shall have a new one made. What is wrong with this dress? It is very comfortable and warm and keeps the chill out. Perfect for traveling.'
'You would have noticed that there are no servants on this mission, haven't you? We will be camping outside not staying at some fancy inn or lodge. It will be rough and the food rather coarse compared to what you are used to.'
Serena smiled to herself. He made it sound like she has never been outside before. It hit her then that Prince Darien did not know that she was a Senshi. Perhaps he did not know what a Senshi was. From an early age Serena had trained with the girls and together they had gone through the streets of the Kingdom helping out the people. It was as her mother said, 'As Queen one day, you have to put your people first. Eventually you will rule and lead them but first you have to serve them. Get out and see for yourself how the people live. Help them because there are some things that only you can do for them.'
And that was how the people accepted Serena as Princess, not only lovable and with a kind heart but also as a protector who put her people before herself.
Darien watched the petite girl. She had made no reply and had looked like she was deep in thought. he thought hopefully.
Serena pulled away from her musings and noticed the Prince's stare. Casting her mind back to what he said she replied, 'Do you know what a Senshi is?'
Darien was taken aback. He answered as best he could at the random question, 'The Senshi are your protectors and court. They follow you around and make sure you do not get into trouble. They are the Princesses we are now intent on rescuing.' He paused noticing her contemplative look.
thought Serena.
(Btw, the girls do not have magical abilities like shooting fireballs or bubbles in this fic. They fight with swords and weapons and are very skilled. Only Serena has the power to heal but that is not mega strong.)
'I understand perfectly,' said Serena, 'I will not be expecting anyone to wait on me hand and foot.'
Darien nodded. he thought grimly, a woman complaining incessantly was one of the most annoying things on earth.
@~@~@~@~@
They had now left the city and were passing through a forest. It was mid afternoon and Serena was rather bored. The men rarely talked and by the looks of it, always traveled in silence. They scouted ahead and behind and were on constant alert.
When Malachite made to check their trail again she asked, 'Do you think that it is absolutely necessary to do that again? At the pace we are going it will take weeks and possibly months instead of days to get there!'
Malachite arched an eyebrow at Serena's little outburst. 'Danger is everywhere milady. Caution should always be used for you never know when there are spies lurking.'
Serena sighed. The Queen had said stealth was the best approach. But the thought that the girls could be in danger now caused her to speak again. 'Lita could be getting tortured at this very instant. Does she cry in pain as the brand or rope is applied again and again? Does Ami whimper at the sight of violence as it appalls her so? Reason and argument are always her chosen approach. Is Raye getting beaten because of her sharp tongue and insolent looks? She never reacts well with captivity or vulnerability. Is Mina being used by a bunch of heartless men, for she is a beauty that they will rarely see. Is her dress all torn and grimy, is blood running down her leg? Does she hide her tears so that the other girls won't worry?' her words weaved a scene of such vividness that the Generals shuddered.
'You are right, danger is always present but as we dawdle now, the girls could be in present danger. There is a time and place for caution and now is not it.'
'Let us go quicker than,' cried Jadeite for he could very well see Raye being beaten for her sharp tongue.
Zoicite however was more reasonable, 'We cannot cripple the horses, and surprise is our best strategy. Let us not lose that.'
They agreed to go faster but not at breakneck speed. They made it through the forest and decided to camp at the edge as it was nightfall.
The men dismounted and set up camp efficiently. They were surprised as Serena helped with the chores, where did a Princess learn how to find wood and set up her bedroll with such ease? 'They do things differently on the Moon,' commented Nephrite softly as Serena built a fire.
They ate sausages for dinner and afterwards sat around the fire companionably.
After a while of silence, Serena questioned, 'Do you not tell stories around a campfire? Sing songs? Play music and dance?'
'Like I said, very differently.' Said Nephrite as the men looked at each other.
'Princess,' started Zoicite.
'Serena,' cut in Serena, 'Call me Serena.'
'Serena,' began Zoicite, 'May I ask where did you acquire your knowledge of camping skills and duties?'
Serena smiled. 'There was a time in our lives; I think I was seven, where the girls and I wished to be hunters. We convinced the Queen to let us spend a few nights in the forest that borders the palace. She reluctantly agreed but set certain conditions. We had to go through a week of posture classes willingly before she agreed. She also sent the Royal Huntsman and his apprentice to look after us.'
'And they taught you?' questioned Nephrite intrigued. None of the princesses on earth ever wanted to be hunters.
'Yes. We had spent the whole day hunting many numerous large and horrible beasts. Taming lions, tigers and bears. Became mortally and fatally wounded and very close to death before one of us would find a miracle cure. That night, we had a tea party with ghosts in a haunted cave then danced with the fairies and their Queen. The Royal Huntsman David would teach us while we played. He showed us herb lore and where to find edible berries and roots. He showed us how to disguise our trails and hide when danger was apparent. We had a wonderful time.'
'And this was when you told stories, and sang songs and danced around a campfire?' asked Jadeite.
'Of course. Ami would play her little flute, and Raye and I would sing while Mina and Lita danced. The huntsman's apprentice told the most magical stories.'
'Do you still want to be a hunter?' questioned Darien with a smile.
'Well, like most things we grew out of it and went on to something else.' Serena did not mention that the Queen had decided that it was a good idea for the girls to know survival in the wild and made it part of their training.
'Did the Lady Ami always play the flute?' asked Zoicite as he withdrew from his chest pocket the small blue bamboo flute.
Serena gasped. That was one of Ami's most treasured possessions. 'How did you come by that?'
Zoicite grinned sheepishly. 'She dropped it the other night in the rose gardens and I picked it up.'
'You must return it immediately to her when you have the chance,' instructed Serena for the flute had sentimental value.
'When did you meet Lady Ami?' asked Malachite, trying to break the tension that was growing between Zoicite and Serena.
'She came to my court when she was very young,' said Serena guardedly, abruptly she stood up. 'I am going to bed now, I believe we will leave early tomorrow.' It was not a statement or a question, it was an order.
The men watched as she retired to her bedroll. They had not missed the order though subtly veiled as it was.
@~@~@~@
Serena gazed at the half-moon. She could not sleep and had gone for a short walk to find this clearing. She was now perched on a very large rock.
The talk around the campfire reminded her of how much she missed the girls. The Generals were nice but it didn't compare to having her sisters who would laugh and sing and argue. The Generals have no life to them, she decided, they need to have fun.
A crack caused her to whip around but before she could scream a voice said softly, 'It is only I Princess.'
Stepping into the moonlight, was General Zoicite. 'I saw and decided to follow.' He explained.
Serena gestured welcomingly at the spot next to her.
'Can't sleep?' she questioned.
'I am sorry.' He said abruptly.
'For what?' asked Serena.
'I don't know. Well actually I do. For hurting Ami.'
'Mayhap you are saying this to the wrong girl. She needs to hear it not I.'
'I know. But earlier tonight, I seemed to have offended you.'
'It was nothing.'
'Tell me, what is the significance of this flute?'
He catches on quick, thought Serena. She hesitated.
'Has Ami told you anything?'
He shook his head.
'I don't think it is my place to tell her secrets.'
'But I would like to know what has affected her so. I would not like to cause her any more unnecessary pain. Unintentionally I have offended you; I would not do that to Ami as well.'
Serena fidgeted. She could see his logic but still. Would Ami be mad? She wondered.
'All of the girls are orphans in one way or another, not technically but they consider themselves so since they have come to the court.' She began, she would only tell the parts that could be known with a bit of research.
'I met Ami once. Before she came to be a part of my court. I was visiting the planet Mercury with my mother. They had a concert you see, a royal family concert. Quite common among them I hear as they are lovers of music.'
'And?' asked Zoi when she paused.
'Ami was no different. At the age of three she could play the flute so well. The tunes and melody were simple yet when played with her family, it was like magic. Her father played the violin and her mother the piano. Their music could have you feeling so happy or so sad that you would cry.'
'Go on,' he prompted.
'There was an earthquake. Her parents were touring the Kingdom as is their custom but Ami did not go. The entire entourage died that summer day. Her uncle now rules Mercury in Ami's stead, until Ami comes of age.'
'The flute reminds her of her family then?'
'It was made by her father, just for her. She came to my court soon after, she was the very first. Ami was so quiet back then. She rarely spoke and often ran away to hide and play her flute. She needs it.'
'I see the sentimental value but is it not like..... well, a security blanket?'
'It is the only thing left of her parents and she has a right to it!' Serena snapped, defensively.
'You wouldn't understand.' She said and made her way back to her bedroll.
'No,' said Zoicite softly at her retreating back. 'I guess I wouldn't.'
@~@~@~@~@
Criticism welcome. Plz review! ^-^!