Rei waited while he rolled off of her before she scrambled to get beneath
the coverlet. She turned to see him speaking to a man who had come to the
door. "Just bring whatever was served at dinner, Hiro, I shall not wait
any longer."
"Are you not feeling well, sir?"
"I am fine. Tell Jadeite that I shall be skipping breakfast as well."
Rei heard the other man stammer a yes before Sora came back to the bed. She noticed his casual dress at that moment. A loose fitting pair of black breeches and shiny black knee high boots. He was wearing a thin white shirt and a black coat that buttoned at his waist. "Dinner will be here shortly," he said smoothly. He unbuttoned his coat then and threw it on the floor behind him. He then sat on the edge of the bed and tugged off his boots. His stockings came next, followed by his shirt. Rei looked away when he reached for the waistband of his breeches. "What?" he asked with a smile. "Have you become the innocent virgin all of a sudden?"
Rei spun her head around just in time to see him toss the garment over his shoulder then climb onto the large bed. "You.you plan on sleeping in this bed naked?" she asked in shock.
"Why not? Take off the robe, little bird."
Rei shook her head wildly, causing several more strands of hair to fall down her shoulders. "You are insane!"
Sora crawled across the bed and leaned against the headboard. Rei threw him a pillow and he placed it softly over his lap. "What's wrong, little bird?" he asked as he leaned closer to her.
"You said you would not do anything I didn't wish," she said turning away from him.
Sora smiled and nuzzled her neck. He kissed he exposed flesh tenderly and sweetly. "I know you expected the great Jadeite to be doing this to you tonight, but I am not so bad, little one," he sighed against her neck.
Rei tried to push away from him, yet he held her in place by clamping an arm around her waist. "Do you not like this," he asked as he slid the dressing gown over her shoulder and down her arm.
Tears sprung to her eyes. "No." she whispered, "Please.please stop."
Sora's mind emptied completely and he moved away from her. "I'm sorry, little one. I thought this is what you came here for," he said with a confused frown.
"I-"
"My Lord!"
"Come in, Hiro," Sora said taking his eyes away from the shaking beauty. She was confusing him greatly. She was here to pleasure him, was she not? "You've our food then, Hiro?" Sora asked the man.
"Yes, my lord. Cook made extra so that you could entertain." his voice slowly dropped away when he saw who sat in the bed beside his master. She was the most amazing creature he had ever had the pleasure to set eyes upon. Her dark hair was falling loose from its neat style and one of her shoulders was bare, a heavy gold velvet dressing gown slipping down her arm- though as he looked at her, he thought that a dark red would suit her coloring better. Her eyes were a stunning violet, though they were a bit misty with unshed tears and she had the most tantalizing skin, creamy and white. "Goddess." he whispered.
Sora cocked an eyebrow at the small man and smiled. "You may leave the food, Hiro."
"Surely the prince did not want to give up such a treat!" he said loudly.
Sora's narrowed eyes relayed his anger. "Get out, Hiro! Put the food down and get the hell out!"
Hiro blushed slightly and quickly made his bow. "S-sorry!" he stammered.
When the little man finally departed, Sora turned to Rei and smiled kindly. "Dinner is served, my lady," he said softly.
"I'd prefer not to eat, if that's all right." she said in response.
Sora looked greatly upset, but hid his anger well. If the little girl wanted to starve herself, so be it. "I'm going to get dressed and then make my check with the prince. Sleep well, little bird." He looked at her one last time before sliding off the bed and grabbing one the large coverlets off the end. He wrapped it around his waist and strode purposefully toward his dressing room.
Rei twisted around on the bed until she untangled her feet from the heavy gold robe then slipped out and padded her way across the large room. She gently pushed open the double doors that led onto the balcony and looked over the railing. It was a long ways down. At least three stories, she guessed by the size of the tree that stood below the stone parapet. She sighed heavily then turned her head to look at the elegantly garbed man who stood near the tree she had had her eyes on.
He was dressed in an extremely dark blue suit, velvet she would assume by looking at the stately garb. His golden hair was short and curling slightly. He had his arms crossed across his chest and was leaning lazily against the large oak. He was facing away from her, but from what she could see of his broad shoulders, she guessed that the rest of him was just as strongly built.
Rei turned abruptly at the sound of footfalls behind her. She saw an equally garbed Sora standing in the doorway. "I hope I did not disturb you, little bird," he said in a very gentle voice.
"I was just looking," she replied with a frown. She stalked back into the room after she had made her comment and proceeded in looking for the dirty chemise that she was sure he had thrown in the direction of the fireplace.
Sora followed a few moments later and shook his head at the sight. The lovely Reina was busy rummaging through pillows that were piled on the floor near the fireplace. "You will not find it, Reina, my dear," he said smoothly as he made his way to her. He knelt beside her and lifted her chin so that their eyes met. "I had Hiro burn it."
Rei's temper began to boil over, but she maintained it long enough to remove herself from his grasp. "I thought you were leaving."
Sora's eyes flashed angrily before he replied. This little bird had a lot of spirit. "I am.I see you are anxious to get rid of me."
"With all possible haste," Rei responded with a great deal of vehemence laced in her words.
Sora's fist shook with anger as he stood up. "As you wish, princess!" he yelled before stalking out of the room and slamming the door closed.
Rei looked over her shoulder and then at the doors leading on to the balcony. If she had the right clothes, she could easily jump onto the tree and climb down. But where she would go once she reached the ground she was not sure.she would just run until she could not any more. She smiled at the thought. She was a senshi in training; she would be able to out run that arrogant Sora and his prince without problems.
With the idea in her mind, she ran to the dressing room that Sora had once occupied and sifted through the masses of clothing he had.
She found an antechamber in the process and realized, with glee, that this was where he kept his assortment of clothing for the subjects he painted. The swathe of red silk was draped over one of the stools near a mirror and there were racks and racks of clothing that lay on either side. Many were more simple swathes of silk or velvet while others were extremely elaborate costumes complete with feathers and animal fur.
She shook her head when she saw how many useless garments were in the room before searching through one section that was full of old gowns, most of them made of a silky gossamer or thin satin. They were all made for a very slender, tall woman and, judging by the style, a very voluptuous woman as well. They were all different shades of white or pale pink.
Rei bit her bottom lip at the thought. Perhaps she should just steal a pair of breeches and white lawn shirt from Sora. The idea quickly fled. She needed the thin material and the flowingness of the gowns to ensure a safe journey. The air was very heavy and humid; she would need something thin to travel in. She glanced at another area that was cluttered with shoes and slippers. She would be able to find at least one pair that fit her.
Making up her mind quickly, she grabbed one of the flowing gossamer gowns- not without slipping into one of the silken chemises she found near the bottom of the closet-and quickly stepped into it. It was a bit big on her and bunched at her feet, but it would suffice. Next, she made her way to the cluttered slippers and dragged out a small pair of white deerskin and slipped them on. She dashed toward the section of the chamber full of the swathes of material and grabbed one of the white silk that matched her dress and quickly wrapped it around her waist to create a makeshift belt. The idea was lost in that the material trailed on the ground behind her, even after she wrapped it around her waist several times.
She found a small knife on the vanity and roughly sawed off the bottom of her dress so that it came to her ankles then used her magic once again to ensure that her hair would stay in its place on her head. She ran quickly past a mirror and paused. She looked like a battered peasant, she thought as she stared at her reflection. The ragged, uneven edge of her gown hung above her ankles and the swathe of white silk was brushing gently against her slippered feet. She brushed back a stray lock of her raven hair and tucked a loose strand back in place. The neck of the gown was cut low and hung open slightly. The sleeves stopped just below the shoulder. She smiled at herself slowly then made a dash for the open doors at the balcony.
She looked below her to secure her safety then climbed over the railing. She wished desperately to use her power to safely guide her to the safety of the tree branches, but she was reluctant to be seen by the gardeners who were no doubt roaming the courtyard. She had several tricks up her sleeve, though and she would use them to protect her from any harmful injuries as she attempted her escape.
With her deerskin slippered feet, she scooted closer to the tree whose branches seemed to reach out to catch her. "You can do this," she told herself. She began thinking how easily she could get away if she had Eurus with her, or even Phobos and Deimos. She blocked her mind when the tears began to flow then looked behind her. No one was around, if she just snapped her fingers she would be on the other side of the courtyard. She would be that much closer to freedom. Besides, she was a senshi, doing things like this was as easy as shooting an arrow.but it never involved the possibility of being caught by a brown-haired painter with evil intents in his mind.
She shook her head and then looked at the tree again. Freedom was just an inch away. Closing her eyes and willing some strength into her bones, she jumped nimbly onto the branches and then scurried into the leaves. She would be safe here for a few moments. Enough time for her to catch her breath.
She did so quickly while peering out of the branches. There were two men making their way down one of the dirt paths a ways away, but they would still see her if she tried to run. As she looked closer, she noticed that one of them was wearing the same dark blue suit as the man who had stood beside the tree. He had the same blonde, wavy hair as well. With a gasp she realized it was the same man and one beside him was Sora. But that blonde god could not be the prince! She slid further up the branch so that she could get a better look at this blonde haired man with the beautiful face before she caught herself thinking such rubbish. She clamped her mouth shut and strained her ears to hear what they had to say.
"-which I don't ." Sora said gesturing with his hands toward the moon. Rei furrowed her brow as she thought of what lay on her princess' home.
The one Sora referred to, shook his head and smiled-very sweetly, she thought. "I never said that, Sora. It's just that I must go. If you do not wish to come, there is no need for you to."
"I can't let you go alone, boy! Think of the monsters and the gypsies that roam the planet!"
Jed looked up at the moon and frowned. "I know what people say, Sora, but I think that they say it because they do not know what to expect of a different place."
Rei leaned forward slightly to hear more, she was hoping they would reveal what planet she was on.
"The people of the Moon are probably dirty peasants, I heard the queen does not care for any of her people."
"I've heard differently then, Sora. I've heard that the moon is the most beautiful star in the universe."
"You've been spending too much time with Nephrite," Sora said crossing his arms.
Jadeite laughed and turned to the brown-haired man. "You spend too much time with those women I send into your room. They no doubt tell you horror stories."
Sora snorted and leaned heavily against the tree. "The one you sent me just today is something different."
Jed turned toward the small vines of roses that wound around one of the white pillars near the tree. "How so, my friend?" he asked plucking one of the white blossoms off. He twirled it in his finger until he felt one of the sharp thorns prick his finger. He watched a small bead of blood well on his finger before he turned back to his friend, who had been speaking for quite some time.
"-and her hair is the darkest black. She is a true goddess, my friend. Why did you not keep her?" Sora asked, turning his attention to the blonde- haired prince.
Jadeite brushed the drop of blood on the white petals and cupped the flower in his hands until a small glow began to form. He stretched the light until a figure emerged from the brightness. The small shadow of a hawk flapped his wings at his master and then flew up into the tree. Jadeite watched the creature until he caught sight of a piece of white silk. His rich blue eyes gleamed in the fading sun as he focused on the swathe of cloth and followed it up a very beautiful crouched body until he came upon a very lovely pair of violet eyes. He turned his gaze away nonchalantly and smiled at his friend. "I did not visit her before I sent her to you. I was busy yelling at Hiro for doing this again."
"Well, I believe I must get back to my room before the girl escapes. She has a very fiery spirit."
Jadeite watched his friend push himself off of the tree and make his way to him. He bowed very deeply then smiled playfully. "I'll see you tomorrow morning."
"Do you think so highly of her then?" Jed asked with a smile.
"I believe she has struck a chord in my heart.she is a beauty and find myself staring rather than playing with her. I find I also want to give her anything she desires, which I know cannot be right."
Jadeite smiled then sent his friend on his way before he turned his attention back to the tree he had been staring at. There was an angel hiding in its branches, he was sure. He turned away from the oak quickly. He was imagining things now. First he was dreaming of enchanted women throwing fire and water, leaves and light, then he was imagining that Endymion had called him to go to the moon, now he was seeing women in trees. He shook his head and moved several feet from the tree to stand in the dimly lit sky. "Ares! Tyche!" he cried loudly.
Within seconds two beautiful birds flew from the trees to land on either of his shoulders. An amazing snowy owl and a lovely golden hawk greeted him fondly; their sharp claws barely creasing his perfect velvet covered shoulders. He stroked each several times before sitting on a stone bench, sighing heavily. The two enormous birds flew to the ground in front of him and looked up questioningly. Something troubles his highness, the snowy owl voiced aloud.
I agree, Tyche.
Rei gasped, this prince had talking birds! They were large, talking, beautiful birds. Her disbelief made it difficult to hold onto the branches and she had to steady herself with an invisible band of heat so she would not fall. She only knew of one type of bird that spoke and that was the phoenix, but here was a man with a talking owl and hawk!
"Nothing of import troubles me, Tyche," Jadeite said sadly.
His highness has been dreaming about her again, hasn't he?
"No, Ares.I have not dreamt of anyone." The hawk beat his wings once as a sign of disagreement before calming down. "Dreams of the woman are far from my mind. I've been seeing things.things that scare me as much as they excite me."
This is not good, highness.perhaps you should see his majesty, Tyche said with a hoot.
Jadeite smiled and shook his head. "Endymion would only say that the warrior in me is growing restless again and that I should be ready to meet these moon maidens who save the universe. I am not thrilled about it, remember that. I am worried about my father. He has not been able to tend to this kingdom for many years."
Rei gasped again at the information. She was on Earth! Then Endymion's palace couldn't be that far away!
She watched as Jadeite stood and made his way to the opposite end of the courtyard and into the brush. Now was her chance to escape. She had a few minutes until he would most likely come back and go into the palace. Holding her breath, Rei jumped out of the tree and rushed toward the end of the yard. She could see the thick brush and the stone wall hidden behind it. She would have to climb over the stone to make sure she was safe.
* * *
Jadeite looked over his shoulder just in time to see the woman dressed in white gossamer race toward the wall. His mouth dropped and his eyes widened. It was like watching an angel race through a dangerous jungle. As he watched her trip over the roots and twigs on the ground, he wished desperately that he could reach out and pull her to safety. He was sure she was an angel, if she wasn't, why would he follow her?
His highness should not be chasing ghosts! Tyche screamed as he flew after Jadeite.
The prince is following his instincts, Tyche. Calm yourself! Our prince is a warrior! Ares said as he flew ahead of the prince. I'll help guide you, highness.
"No need, Ares, I can see the girl." Jadeite said as he raced after her.
"Are you not feeling well, sir?"
"I am fine. Tell Jadeite that I shall be skipping breakfast as well."
Rei heard the other man stammer a yes before Sora came back to the bed. She noticed his casual dress at that moment. A loose fitting pair of black breeches and shiny black knee high boots. He was wearing a thin white shirt and a black coat that buttoned at his waist. "Dinner will be here shortly," he said smoothly. He unbuttoned his coat then and threw it on the floor behind him. He then sat on the edge of the bed and tugged off his boots. His stockings came next, followed by his shirt. Rei looked away when he reached for the waistband of his breeches. "What?" he asked with a smile. "Have you become the innocent virgin all of a sudden?"
Rei spun her head around just in time to see him toss the garment over his shoulder then climb onto the large bed. "You.you plan on sleeping in this bed naked?" she asked in shock.
"Why not? Take off the robe, little bird."
Rei shook her head wildly, causing several more strands of hair to fall down her shoulders. "You are insane!"
Sora crawled across the bed and leaned against the headboard. Rei threw him a pillow and he placed it softly over his lap. "What's wrong, little bird?" he asked as he leaned closer to her.
"You said you would not do anything I didn't wish," she said turning away from him.
Sora smiled and nuzzled her neck. He kissed he exposed flesh tenderly and sweetly. "I know you expected the great Jadeite to be doing this to you tonight, but I am not so bad, little one," he sighed against her neck.
Rei tried to push away from him, yet he held her in place by clamping an arm around her waist. "Do you not like this," he asked as he slid the dressing gown over her shoulder and down her arm.
Tears sprung to her eyes. "No." she whispered, "Please.please stop."
Sora's mind emptied completely and he moved away from her. "I'm sorry, little one. I thought this is what you came here for," he said with a confused frown.
"I-"
"My Lord!"
"Come in, Hiro," Sora said taking his eyes away from the shaking beauty. She was confusing him greatly. She was here to pleasure him, was she not? "You've our food then, Hiro?" Sora asked the man.
"Yes, my lord. Cook made extra so that you could entertain." his voice slowly dropped away when he saw who sat in the bed beside his master. She was the most amazing creature he had ever had the pleasure to set eyes upon. Her dark hair was falling loose from its neat style and one of her shoulders was bare, a heavy gold velvet dressing gown slipping down her arm- though as he looked at her, he thought that a dark red would suit her coloring better. Her eyes were a stunning violet, though they were a bit misty with unshed tears and she had the most tantalizing skin, creamy and white. "Goddess." he whispered.
Sora cocked an eyebrow at the small man and smiled. "You may leave the food, Hiro."
"Surely the prince did not want to give up such a treat!" he said loudly.
Sora's narrowed eyes relayed his anger. "Get out, Hiro! Put the food down and get the hell out!"
Hiro blushed slightly and quickly made his bow. "S-sorry!" he stammered.
When the little man finally departed, Sora turned to Rei and smiled kindly. "Dinner is served, my lady," he said softly.
"I'd prefer not to eat, if that's all right." she said in response.
Sora looked greatly upset, but hid his anger well. If the little girl wanted to starve herself, so be it. "I'm going to get dressed and then make my check with the prince. Sleep well, little bird." He looked at her one last time before sliding off the bed and grabbing one the large coverlets off the end. He wrapped it around his waist and strode purposefully toward his dressing room.
Rei twisted around on the bed until she untangled her feet from the heavy gold robe then slipped out and padded her way across the large room. She gently pushed open the double doors that led onto the balcony and looked over the railing. It was a long ways down. At least three stories, she guessed by the size of the tree that stood below the stone parapet. She sighed heavily then turned her head to look at the elegantly garbed man who stood near the tree she had had her eyes on.
He was dressed in an extremely dark blue suit, velvet she would assume by looking at the stately garb. His golden hair was short and curling slightly. He had his arms crossed across his chest and was leaning lazily against the large oak. He was facing away from her, but from what she could see of his broad shoulders, she guessed that the rest of him was just as strongly built.
Rei turned abruptly at the sound of footfalls behind her. She saw an equally garbed Sora standing in the doorway. "I hope I did not disturb you, little bird," he said in a very gentle voice.
"I was just looking," she replied with a frown. She stalked back into the room after she had made her comment and proceeded in looking for the dirty chemise that she was sure he had thrown in the direction of the fireplace.
Sora followed a few moments later and shook his head at the sight. The lovely Reina was busy rummaging through pillows that were piled on the floor near the fireplace. "You will not find it, Reina, my dear," he said smoothly as he made his way to her. He knelt beside her and lifted her chin so that their eyes met. "I had Hiro burn it."
Rei's temper began to boil over, but she maintained it long enough to remove herself from his grasp. "I thought you were leaving."
Sora's eyes flashed angrily before he replied. This little bird had a lot of spirit. "I am.I see you are anxious to get rid of me."
"With all possible haste," Rei responded with a great deal of vehemence laced in her words.
Sora's fist shook with anger as he stood up. "As you wish, princess!" he yelled before stalking out of the room and slamming the door closed.
Rei looked over her shoulder and then at the doors leading on to the balcony. If she had the right clothes, she could easily jump onto the tree and climb down. But where she would go once she reached the ground she was not sure.she would just run until she could not any more. She smiled at the thought. She was a senshi in training; she would be able to out run that arrogant Sora and his prince without problems.
With the idea in her mind, she ran to the dressing room that Sora had once occupied and sifted through the masses of clothing he had.
She found an antechamber in the process and realized, with glee, that this was where he kept his assortment of clothing for the subjects he painted. The swathe of red silk was draped over one of the stools near a mirror and there were racks and racks of clothing that lay on either side. Many were more simple swathes of silk or velvet while others were extremely elaborate costumes complete with feathers and animal fur.
She shook her head when she saw how many useless garments were in the room before searching through one section that was full of old gowns, most of them made of a silky gossamer or thin satin. They were all made for a very slender, tall woman and, judging by the style, a very voluptuous woman as well. They were all different shades of white or pale pink.
Rei bit her bottom lip at the thought. Perhaps she should just steal a pair of breeches and white lawn shirt from Sora. The idea quickly fled. She needed the thin material and the flowingness of the gowns to ensure a safe journey. The air was very heavy and humid; she would need something thin to travel in. She glanced at another area that was cluttered with shoes and slippers. She would be able to find at least one pair that fit her.
Making up her mind quickly, she grabbed one of the flowing gossamer gowns- not without slipping into one of the silken chemises she found near the bottom of the closet-and quickly stepped into it. It was a bit big on her and bunched at her feet, but it would suffice. Next, she made her way to the cluttered slippers and dragged out a small pair of white deerskin and slipped them on. She dashed toward the section of the chamber full of the swathes of material and grabbed one of the white silk that matched her dress and quickly wrapped it around her waist to create a makeshift belt. The idea was lost in that the material trailed on the ground behind her, even after she wrapped it around her waist several times.
She found a small knife on the vanity and roughly sawed off the bottom of her dress so that it came to her ankles then used her magic once again to ensure that her hair would stay in its place on her head. She ran quickly past a mirror and paused. She looked like a battered peasant, she thought as she stared at her reflection. The ragged, uneven edge of her gown hung above her ankles and the swathe of white silk was brushing gently against her slippered feet. She brushed back a stray lock of her raven hair and tucked a loose strand back in place. The neck of the gown was cut low and hung open slightly. The sleeves stopped just below the shoulder. She smiled at herself slowly then made a dash for the open doors at the balcony.
She looked below her to secure her safety then climbed over the railing. She wished desperately to use her power to safely guide her to the safety of the tree branches, but she was reluctant to be seen by the gardeners who were no doubt roaming the courtyard. She had several tricks up her sleeve, though and she would use them to protect her from any harmful injuries as she attempted her escape.
With her deerskin slippered feet, she scooted closer to the tree whose branches seemed to reach out to catch her. "You can do this," she told herself. She began thinking how easily she could get away if she had Eurus with her, or even Phobos and Deimos. She blocked her mind when the tears began to flow then looked behind her. No one was around, if she just snapped her fingers she would be on the other side of the courtyard. She would be that much closer to freedom. Besides, she was a senshi, doing things like this was as easy as shooting an arrow.but it never involved the possibility of being caught by a brown-haired painter with evil intents in his mind.
She shook her head and then looked at the tree again. Freedom was just an inch away. Closing her eyes and willing some strength into her bones, she jumped nimbly onto the branches and then scurried into the leaves. She would be safe here for a few moments. Enough time for her to catch her breath.
She did so quickly while peering out of the branches. There were two men making their way down one of the dirt paths a ways away, but they would still see her if she tried to run. As she looked closer, she noticed that one of them was wearing the same dark blue suit as the man who had stood beside the tree. He had the same blonde, wavy hair as well. With a gasp she realized it was the same man and one beside him was Sora. But that blonde god could not be the prince! She slid further up the branch so that she could get a better look at this blonde haired man with the beautiful face before she caught herself thinking such rubbish. She clamped her mouth shut and strained her ears to hear what they had to say.
"-which I don't ." Sora said gesturing with his hands toward the moon. Rei furrowed her brow as she thought of what lay on her princess' home.
The one Sora referred to, shook his head and smiled-very sweetly, she thought. "I never said that, Sora. It's just that I must go. If you do not wish to come, there is no need for you to."
"I can't let you go alone, boy! Think of the monsters and the gypsies that roam the planet!"
Jed looked up at the moon and frowned. "I know what people say, Sora, but I think that they say it because they do not know what to expect of a different place."
Rei leaned forward slightly to hear more, she was hoping they would reveal what planet she was on.
"The people of the Moon are probably dirty peasants, I heard the queen does not care for any of her people."
"I've heard differently then, Sora. I've heard that the moon is the most beautiful star in the universe."
"You've been spending too much time with Nephrite," Sora said crossing his arms.
Jadeite laughed and turned to the brown-haired man. "You spend too much time with those women I send into your room. They no doubt tell you horror stories."
Sora snorted and leaned heavily against the tree. "The one you sent me just today is something different."
Jed turned toward the small vines of roses that wound around one of the white pillars near the tree. "How so, my friend?" he asked plucking one of the white blossoms off. He twirled it in his finger until he felt one of the sharp thorns prick his finger. He watched a small bead of blood well on his finger before he turned back to his friend, who had been speaking for quite some time.
"-and her hair is the darkest black. She is a true goddess, my friend. Why did you not keep her?" Sora asked, turning his attention to the blonde- haired prince.
Jadeite brushed the drop of blood on the white petals and cupped the flower in his hands until a small glow began to form. He stretched the light until a figure emerged from the brightness. The small shadow of a hawk flapped his wings at his master and then flew up into the tree. Jadeite watched the creature until he caught sight of a piece of white silk. His rich blue eyes gleamed in the fading sun as he focused on the swathe of cloth and followed it up a very beautiful crouched body until he came upon a very lovely pair of violet eyes. He turned his gaze away nonchalantly and smiled at his friend. "I did not visit her before I sent her to you. I was busy yelling at Hiro for doing this again."
"Well, I believe I must get back to my room before the girl escapes. She has a very fiery spirit."
Jadeite watched his friend push himself off of the tree and make his way to him. He bowed very deeply then smiled playfully. "I'll see you tomorrow morning."
"Do you think so highly of her then?" Jed asked with a smile.
"I believe she has struck a chord in my heart.she is a beauty and find myself staring rather than playing with her. I find I also want to give her anything she desires, which I know cannot be right."
Jadeite smiled then sent his friend on his way before he turned his attention back to the tree he had been staring at. There was an angel hiding in its branches, he was sure. He turned away from the oak quickly. He was imagining things now. First he was dreaming of enchanted women throwing fire and water, leaves and light, then he was imagining that Endymion had called him to go to the moon, now he was seeing women in trees. He shook his head and moved several feet from the tree to stand in the dimly lit sky. "Ares! Tyche!" he cried loudly.
Within seconds two beautiful birds flew from the trees to land on either of his shoulders. An amazing snowy owl and a lovely golden hawk greeted him fondly; their sharp claws barely creasing his perfect velvet covered shoulders. He stroked each several times before sitting on a stone bench, sighing heavily. The two enormous birds flew to the ground in front of him and looked up questioningly. Something troubles his highness, the snowy owl voiced aloud.
I agree, Tyche.
Rei gasped, this prince had talking birds! They were large, talking, beautiful birds. Her disbelief made it difficult to hold onto the branches and she had to steady herself with an invisible band of heat so she would not fall. She only knew of one type of bird that spoke and that was the phoenix, but here was a man with a talking owl and hawk!
"Nothing of import troubles me, Tyche," Jadeite said sadly.
His highness has been dreaming about her again, hasn't he?
"No, Ares.I have not dreamt of anyone." The hawk beat his wings once as a sign of disagreement before calming down. "Dreams of the woman are far from my mind. I've been seeing things.things that scare me as much as they excite me."
This is not good, highness.perhaps you should see his majesty, Tyche said with a hoot.
Jadeite smiled and shook his head. "Endymion would only say that the warrior in me is growing restless again and that I should be ready to meet these moon maidens who save the universe. I am not thrilled about it, remember that. I am worried about my father. He has not been able to tend to this kingdom for many years."
Rei gasped again at the information. She was on Earth! Then Endymion's palace couldn't be that far away!
She watched as Jadeite stood and made his way to the opposite end of the courtyard and into the brush. Now was her chance to escape. She had a few minutes until he would most likely come back and go into the palace. Holding her breath, Rei jumped out of the tree and rushed toward the end of the yard. She could see the thick brush and the stone wall hidden behind it. She would have to climb over the stone to make sure she was safe.
* * *
Jadeite looked over his shoulder just in time to see the woman dressed in white gossamer race toward the wall. His mouth dropped and his eyes widened. It was like watching an angel race through a dangerous jungle. As he watched her trip over the roots and twigs on the ground, he wished desperately that he could reach out and pull her to safety. He was sure she was an angel, if she wasn't, why would he follow her?
His highness should not be chasing ghosts! Tyche screamed as he flew after Jadeite.
The prince is following his instincts, Tyche. Calm yourself! Our prince is a warrior! Ares said as he flew ahead of the prince. I'll help guide you, highness.
"No need, Ares, I can see the girl." Jadeite said as he raced after her.