By request.here are some more chapters for your viewing pleasure. Hope you
enjoy! Review please! The more reviews I get, the faster the chapters come
out! ^_^ --Lady Hino
Rei could feel the freedom as she reached the wall. It was sweet and warm. She was almost there. If she could just swing over the thick wall, she would be free. She wished she had Eurus with her, or even Reiko. A tear slipped from her eye. If she didn't get over the wall, she would never see them again.
She looked over her shoulder to check for danger and once satisfied, turned her attention back to the wall. As she neared it, a giant bird flew across her path and landed weightlessly on her shoulder. She stopped abruptly, afraid that one of the prince's birds had found her. She cautiously looked up and smiled with relief. "Eurus!" she cried happily.
The bird sang gently in her ear and bumped his head against her cheek. 'I could hear your silent cries from a distance. You never fully recovered your wits, but I could still feel you on this strange planet.so I came quickly' he said softly. A soft glittering light fell from the red and gold-feathered tail that fell to the ground. 'Your friend is very worried, princess. I could not calm her as I could calm you.she does not hear what she does not believe.'
Rei's eyes clouded with relief. She would survive this palace after all. "I was afraid I would never see you again."
Eurus flapped his enormous wings and screeched beautifully. 'Your fear is neither relevant nor pure. I will guide you to safety so long as these great beasts do not take you from me, princess,' Eurus said as he stretched his wings and gently glided before her.
Rei followed quickly. "You mean the owl and hawk." she said with a hasty glance over her shoulder.
Eurus eyed the girl and then flung the long feathers on his head back. 'That owl and hawk are no ordinary birds. They are magical creatures with powers similar to an Avalon beast. They have been able to create an invisible barrier around these grounds.it was difficult to break.'
Rei smiled softly. Her dearest friend was here to save her, and if Eurus could not save her, she didn't know who would be able to do so. "Where must I go?" she asked softly.
'This way.' Eurus said before flying off in the direction he spoke of. He reached the wall in time to see the two beasts fly around his mistress' head. 'Princess!' he screeched.
'Come with us, little angel,' Ares said playfully. 'Our prince awaits you!'
"Eurus." Rei whispered desperately. The birds began to beat their powerful wings until she was caught in a whirlwind of sweet smelling breezes. "Eurus! Tasukete!" she cried.
'Princess.princess,' Eurus called as he raced back to the scene. His long tail flew dazzlingly behind him in waves of red and gold sparks.
Jadeite ran into the clearing just as the brilliant phoenix dived for his golden hawk. "Ares!" he screamed.
The hawk spun around in the air just in time to block the flying phoenix. 'I ask for the littlest bit of help, highness,' he said softly.
Jed held up a hand and threw a bright light at the phoenix. "I'm not sure how strongly my magic affects this creature, but I did what I could," he said quietly to the hovering hawk. "Tyche, be done with the angel!"
Tyche screeched a silent song and flapped his wings yet again.
A small beam of white light fell on Rei until she was bathed in the warmth. Eurus.she sighed mentally. She fell backwards thousands of feet before a strong pair or arms caught her. She glanced at the striking blue eyes of her savior and lifted a hand to stroke his face. "Eurus." she sighed before closing her eyes.
* * *
Jadeite paced nervously in the parlor that joined his bedchamber with the girls. "That bird." he whispered to himself. "That was no Avalon bird.it was a phoenix.a legendary phoenix." he said quickly. "What do you make of it?"
'Perhaps the creature is from far away.the coloring is that of Mars.'
'All phoenixes resemble each other, ignorant pest. Besides.the bird is most likely young.look how he cares for the girl.very sloppy if you ask me.'
Jadeite looked at the owl curiously. "And you are so old that you know all, Tyche?" he asked with a grin.
'I am three times your age, highness.I've watched many grow.'
"Why do you stay with me if you are so wise, Tyche? I would think you'd want to go off and explore the world more," Jadeite said reaching for the glass of brandy that Hiro held out for him. "Thank you, Hiro," he said to the man.
Hiro stared at the large owl and then the hawk. The birds had been scaring him since he first saw them fly through the window of his sire's bedroom twenty-four years ago. They never made a sound, yet communicated with the prince as though he were a bird. At times he believed the prince to be crazy for he spoke to these creatures as casually as any person would converse with a human. Shaking his head, Hiro went back to the sideboard and filled another glass of brandy for the one he knew would be gone soon.
'I stay, highness, because I want to, not because I have to.'
"Ares?" Jed asked as he sipped at the amber liquid.
'I stay because you are the most interesting master I have had. I've watched you grow, highness.it's a pleasure to stay on with you.'
Jed smiled shyly. "I believe I should go in there and see how the little angel is." he said quietly.
'Are you sure that is wise?'
Jed looked over his shoulder at the snowy owl and raised an eyebrow. "Why would it not be?"
'Tyche put a spell on the phoenix.he's afraid that the creature will wake and possibly attack.'
Jed smiled and turned his attention back to the door of Rei's bedchamber. "It'll be fine, Tyche. I'll just go in there and check on the sleeping angel.then I'll be back. There won't be enough time for the phoenix to attack, I promise you that."
'Highness.'
"Don't worry, Tyche," Jed said with a grin. He stepped away before the owl could say more and opened the door. He was surprised to feel the feather- light weight of Ares land on his shoulder. "Are you worried then, too?" he asked the golden bird.
'I'm eager to meet this phoenix!'
Jed laughed slightly at the golden hawk before pushing the door gently open.
'Don't wake her, highness.'
Jed glanced over his shoulder and grinned. There was no way he would wake the angel.if it were an angel. But how could it not be? She was utterly breathtaking.
As he stepped closer to her, he saw that her hair was still piled high on her head and that her white dress still clung to her as if it were a second skin. The outline of her breasts was clear in the dim light of the candle and her lashes created the most adorable crescents on her high cheekbones.
Jed looked to his right and noted that the legendary phoenix was still sleeping soundlessly in its new golden cage. Tyche had cast a spell on both the bird and the gold to ensure everyone's safety, though Jadeite was sure that the bird would be able to break out of its confinements as soon as he woke. Shaking his head, Jed approached the four poster bed and stood looking down at the maiden.
His hands itched to touch her as he watched the rise and fall of her chest. His body yearned to feel hers as he would any other woman in his court. He wanted to stroke her delicate skin and strip her down to ensure that she was unharmed from his birds. He wanted to smooth salve on her wounds, if she had any, and he wanted to rub away the soreness he knew would be there when she woke up. He wanted to strip his clothing off and gently push-
'Perhaps she would be more comfortable if she had some nourishment.' Ares said softly. Jadeite let out the breath he seemed to be holding and looked over his shoulder. The golden hawk was perched on a high-backed chair near the hearth and was basking in its warmth. Jadeite silently thanked the hawk for interrupting his thoughts. They had gotten too far from him. "Perhaps you are right." he forced out. His body was still shaking with the memories of his imagination. "Tyche cast the spell, did he not?" Jed asked wiping his brow. He had suddenly found moisture there and wondered how far his mind had traveled in those few moments.
The hawk flapped his right wing once as his silent signal for "yes."
"Then he should be the one to remove it." Jadeite said softly. "Ares."
'Of course, highness.' Ares mentally breathed. He drifted out of the room soundlessly and returned seconds later with the great snowy owl. 'Tyche worries that the phoenix will wake as soon as his mistress does,' Ares voiced with annoyance.
Jadeite shook his head. "It matters not.I'd like for her to decide if it is sleep she takes or food. I will not force either on her."
Tyche nodded and flew above the sleeping beauty. He gently flapped his wings and sang in his delicate, low voice. A soft white light emitted from his wings and covered the sleeping goddess.
Jadeite watched anxiously, fearing for the girl as the owl worked his magic.
Tyche finished with a final note and glided gracefully to the chair where Ares was sitting patiently. The two birds waited with bated breath as Jadeite slowly approached the girl.
She stirred slightly, Jadeite noticed as he gained more ground on her. He could feel his heart pumping quickly as he became increasingly nearer. He didn't understand why he was acting the way he was. It was just another pretty girl.
Rei opened her eyes slowly. Her surroundings were far different then they should have been. The air was lighter then that of Mars and sweeter smelling. If she reached out, she could almost smell Eurus sleeping beside her, yet she knew that was not possible. Eurus never slept.
She sat up faster than she had ever done in her life, yet her head protested mightily as she did so. "What's.happening?" she groaned.
"I'm afraid you might have hit your head earlier, child," Jadeite said as softly as he could. He didn't want to startle the girl.
Rei jerked her head in the direction of the voice and almost fell back with pain. There wasn't a bump on her head; she knew that. Only a powerful magic could make her head spin as it did. "Who are.you?" she asked as fiercely as she could. Her voice cracked as she spoke, as if every part of her body wasn't up to working properly.
"I found you in the garden's.you were being attacked by my birds," Jadeite said gently. It wasn't all a lie.
Rei looked at the dimly lit figure standing beside the bed and allowed her eyes to travel to his face. Despite the haziness before them, she noticed instantly who was in her company. How could she forget those incredibly blue eyes or that short-clipped wavy golden hair? He wasn't wearing the same blue suit as before, and she somehow found that comforting. Instead, he wore a simple white tunic and black breeches. His knee-high boots were dull and fading from use and she assumed that the blue sash around his waist symbolized his royal rank-though anyone who could not tell that he was a prince was surely out of their mind. He was amazingly handsome and powerfully built. "What."
"What are you doing here?" Jadeite asked for her.
She nodded numbly. The spell that was put on her wasn't wearing off.
"After I found you in the gardens, I took you here so that you could rest. You didn't look to be your best."
"How long.have I been here?" she forced out.
"Not so long.I carried you into this room, it's adjacent to the master suite, separated by a parlor."
Rei quickly glanced down the length of her body and sighed with obvious relief. At least this one wasn't a sex-driven fool like the other.
Jadeite stifled the urge to shout at her. Of course he didn't touch her. He wouldn't be so bold. Instead of shouting, he gritted his teeth and continued to watch her as she adjusted her dress. She looked up at him after a moment. "I'd like to go home, sir." she said softly.
Jadeite shook his head. "I can't allow you to leave. I sent word to his highness that there was an intruder on my grounds and he should be coming within the month to see who you are." he said slowly. He was proud of himself; he managed to tell the ridiculous lie without flinching. "When my lord comes, he'll decide whether to return you to your home or sell you."
"Sell? Surely.you.jest," she said slowly. She felt worse than before. "You cannot.mean to.sell me." she labored. She was finding it increasingly difficult to think.
"I do not," Jadeite said noting the sudden slur of her words. He turned to look at the snowy owl behind him and glared menacingly. 'I pray you have nothing to do with her lack of thought.' he said mentally. Speaking to his birds thus made his own energy lessen. He used it only for the private thoughts he needed to share with the two.
'I did nothing to her!' Ares said quickly.
"Tyche?" Jed fairly growled.
The white owl merely stared then flew out of the room.
Jadeite swore under his breath then turned back to the girl. "Are you well?" he asked stupidly.
Rei looked up at him with weary eyes and frowned. "I would.think you would.know." she said angrily.
Jadeite smiled despite himself. So the girl had as fiery spirit as she had her fiery looks. He turned to her and raised a blonde brow. "Would I?"
Rei finally took the time to look him fully in the face. It seemed as if the spell that had been cast on her was beginning to wear down. She stared into the eyes of this blonde god fully and realized that he was even more beautiful than she thought-yet the hard lines around his mouth prevented him from being as beautiful as she originally thought. He was the epitome of masculinity. His blonde waves and beautiful blue eyes were only adornments to that maleness. His flawlessly shaped nose matched perfectly with his grinning lips. He had the most dazzling white teeth. She nodded meekly at his disarming grin then turned her face away. She was certain that a blush was rising.
Jadeite smiled again and folded his hands behind his back. "I'm sorry, for I had not realized thus," he said gently.
It was then that Rei noticed his accented Japanese. She wasn't aware of what language they were speaking until she heard the accent. Her thoughts were beginning to come into focus; the spell was wearing thin. His words had a gentle Eastern English slur to them. She thought to sway him by switching her language to accommodate his needs, yet the fact that he spoke flawless Japanese had her wondering. "We still reside on Earth, do we not?" she asked.
Jadeite was stunned at her switch. The English that flowed from her lips was as immaculate as any princess' was. There was a slight accent to her words; her "r" was softer than his was; yet he could tell all the same that this girl was no ordinary peasant whore. "Where are you from?" he asked in English, purposefully steering her away from the topic she had just brought up.
"It matters naught.I would like to return there, though," she said with a frown.
Jadeite grit his teeth. This girl had a feisty spirit. "If you would but tell me, perhaps it could be arranged," he forced out. She looked away from him then to survey her surroundings. He saw when she noticed the magical phoenix and nearly groaned in his anger.
"Eurus! What have you done?" she yelled, swinging her legs off the bed and rising to her feet. She lost her footing before she was completely raised, and Jadeite had to grab her by the waist to ensure that she did not go elsewhere. She looked up into his eyes for a moment before shrugging off his assistance and pushing away from him. "You have no right!" she said loudly.
"'Twas but a bit of help, lady, nothing more," he said calmly, though that was not at all how he felt inside. He was seething with anger. This little girl lit a fire in him that he could not douse. Not only was it an anger that built up, but a strange desire to have her for his own.
He stepped away from her and crossed his arms over his chest then, for he was anxious to be away from her. Let Hiro deal with the maid. "Your bird is not harmed," he said slowly.
Rei glared at him with her stunning eyes and sluggishly made her way to the golden cage. "Eurus," she whispered gently.
It was in the smoothest voice Jed had ever heard. It was like silk rubbing against the skin. He no longer heard that bite of sarcasm or the hint of anger, but a sweet, angelic voice that made his ears prick. He could fall asleep listening to that voice, and perhaps forget everything that haunted him. He shook his head even as the thought was stemming. "The bird is only sleeping." Jed said to get his mind out of the clouds.
Rei turned to him with what he recognized as hope in her eyes. "Who cast the spell, for I am unable to break it," she said.
Jadeite felt a moment's worth of sympathy for the girl until she voiced her next comment. "Obviously the bearer of this spell is stupid enough to guess that the spell can be broken."
Jadeite clamped his jaw closed and strode toward her. "I'm sure you can call the bird from its slumber," he forced.
Rei gathered her brows in a frown and pointed to the bird. "Does it look like anyone could wake up this phoenix?" she asked angrily.
He no longer saw the innocent angel he thought he had seen. He now saw a beautiful dark she-devil, surely that was what she was. "You are his mistress, wake him." Jed said softly.
Rei stood her ground and waited impatiently. "Have you never heard of the rules of magic?"
"Rules do not exist."
"Only the one who cast the spell may lift it!" she retorted angrily.
"That has never been the case in my court." he said gently.
"Then you all must be tuned in to each other's power!" she nearly screamed.
Jadeite ground his teeth in annoyance and put his hand on the golden cage. His hand shook with an anger he had never felt before. He kept his anger in check though, unlike the seething beauty before him. It took a great amount of control, yet he was able to hold back from throttling the girl.
A white light seeped from his hand as if he bled over the cage with immortal blood until the brightness nearly blinded her. The light seemed to seep into her skin, however, for she could feel its warmth as if he had placed his hand on her.
She turned her head when the light faded and noted that he had indeed woken the bird. It was impossible! The magic gates were never this open on Mars. They remained as closed as possible. The only one who could change the course of another's magic was the high priestess. Rei strove to take that position next. It was said that she would conquer the old priestess. She had the self-control and the ability to become such. She turned to look at the phoenix fully and smiled with relief. Her life partner was alive and well. "Eurus." she whispered.
Jadeite closed his eyes tightly and took his hand away from the cage. Her voice had returned when she saw that her companion was awake. He shook his head and moved away from them, expecting an attack at any moment. Why had he woken the bird? Was he so frightened of her arguments that he had surrendered his power to her? It was ridiculous. "I suppose that now that your phoenix has been restored, you will flee home?" he said softly.
Rei turned to look at him and frowned. "You said yourself that I could go nowhere. How could I escape when I know naught where to go?" she asked.
"True enough." he replied. They had switched back to Japanese, seeing as how she panicked when she saw her bird. That had forced her mind to blank and her home language to be spoken. He tried again to remember where he heard that accent before. It was not the Japanese of the Earth Kingdom; he knew that from experience. And it was not that of Venus for Venus' civilians had the sweet lilt to their words, whether it was Japanese or French. It was not that of the moon, for he had been there several times when he was younger. No, the moon had a very royal quality to it, as if it had descended from the King of the Heavens. He knew the accent, but could not think readily on it. "I'll ask you again where you come from." he said softly.
Rei inclined her head slightly and pursed her lips. "From afar," she said.
Jadeite felt the wave of anger wash over him again. He had never been this angry with a woman. "Perhaps a few more hours in this room will change your mind. In time you will tell me," he said arrogantly.
'What a fool,' Eurus said with a groan befitting a bird.
Jadeite swung his head around to look at the red and gold beast. He knew he gaped, but did not care. "That.that bird spoke!" he said. "I've heard of magical phoenixes before, but I had thought that the only creatures who spoke resided in Avalon!" he said with amazement.
'I did not realize that this Earthling could hear me,' Eurus said softly, extending his wings agitatedly. 'Who are you?'
"I hear you only because I believe I can," Jadeite said softly.
Eurus inclined his head-much like his mistress did-and screeched beautifully. Jadeite had never believed that a screech from a bird could sound like a song, but then again, this was a phoenix.
'Do not disrespect the prince!' Ares said from his perch on the high- backed chair. 'You should kneel at his feet and beg forgiveness.'
Eurus fluffed up with pride. 'Then you should also kneel before-'
"You're birds speak as well, sire," Rei said quickly. She looked up at Eurus and glared. 'Do not reveal my identity, lovely,' she whispered in her mind.
"My birds flew from Avalon when I was being tuned into my land. They flew over the forests of the world and brought with them a power no one could master. They gave it to me.they appeared on my balcony when I was one and have not left my side," he said gazing at the golden hawk.
"How long have they stayed with you?" Rei asked boldly. For some reason she wished to learn all about this golden-haired prince.
Jadeite recovered from his momentary awe when he heard her question. "That is of no import to you," he said stiffly. He couldn't believe how much he had told her. He wanted to ensure that she did not know him fully. It was too late for that. Ares had already revealed his royal status. "I'll leave you alone," he said softly.
Jadeite strode toward the door of her chamber with purposeful strides. He wanted to be away from this enchantress. "I'll have someone bring you a small something to eat. I'm sure you're hungry," he whispered.
Rei turned and watched the golden hawk swoop down onto the prince's shoulder. She winced when she noticed the massive claws of the beast sink into his shoulder. She wondered why the man didn't shrug off the creature. "Arigato," she whispered when his statement registered in her mind, "I am a little hungry," she admitted.
Jadeite nodded slightly and began turning the knob on the oak doors.
"Matte!" Rei cried. She watched him look over his shoulder, his blue eyes heavy with exhaustion. "What is your name, sire?" she asked softly.
Jadeite pondered the question. Could it hurt? Most likely it wouldn't. It was just a name, after all. "Jadeite." he whispered.
"Jadeite?" Rei repeated, the name slipping off her tongue like liquid silk.
Jadeite nodded and reached for the door. He stopped when he heard her soft spoken comment. "I beg your pardon?" he said turning to face her.
Her cheeks were flushed with color and she clutched at the white fabric of her gown as though it would disappear if she did not. "You may call me Reina, sire." she said.
Jadeite smiled faintly and opened the door. "I'll write a missive and have it delivered to Endymion as soon as possible," he said quietly. He left before she could thank him, or argue with him. He was glad of that.
Rei could feel the freedom as she reached the wall. It was sweet and warm. She was almost there. If she could just swing over the thick wall, she would be free. She wished she had Eurus with her, or even Reiko. A tear slipped from her eye. If she didn't get over the wall, she would never see them again.
She looked over her shoulder to check for danger and once satisfied, turned her attention back to the wall. As she neared it, a giant bird flew across her path and landed weightlessly on her shoulder. She stopped abruptly, afraid that one of the prince's birds had found her. She cautiously looked up and smiled with relief. "Eurus!" she cried happily.
The bird sang gently in her ear and bumped his head against her cheek. 'I could hear your silent cries from a distance. You never fully recovered your wits, but I could still feel you on this strange planet.so I came quickly' he said softly. A soft glittering light fell from the red and gold-feathered tail that fell to the ground. 'Your friend is very worried, princess. I could not calm her as I could calm you.she does not hear what she does not believe.'
Rei's eyes clouded with relief. She would survive this palace after all. "I was afraid I would never see you again."
Eurus flapped his enormous wings and screeched beautifully. 'Your fear is neither relevant nor pure. I will guide you to safety so long as these great beasts do not take you from me, princess,' Eurus said as he stretched his wings and gently glided before her.
Rei followed quickly. "You mean the owl and hawk." she said with a hasty glance over her shoulder.
Eurus eyed the girl and then flung the long feathers on his head back. 'That owl and hawk are no ordinary birds. They are magical creatures with powers similar to an Avalon beast. They have been able to create an invisible barrier around these grounds.it was difficult to break.'
Rei smiled softly. Her dearest friend was here to save her, and if Eurus could not save her, she didn't know who would be able to do so. "Where must I go?" she asked softly.
'This way.' Eurus said before flying off in the direction he spoke of. He reached the wall in time to see the two beasts fly around his mistress' head. 'Princess!' he screeched.
'Come with us, little angel,' Ares said playfully. 'Our prince awaits you!'
"Eurus." Rei whispered desperately. The birds began to beat their powerful wings until she was caught in a whirlwind of sweet smelling breezes. "Eurus! Tasukete!" she cried.
'Princess.princess,' Eurus called as he raced back to the scene. His long tail flew dazzlingly behind him in waves of red and gold sparks.
Jadeite ran into the clearing just as the brilliant phoenix dived for his golden hawk. "Ares!" he screamed.
The hawk spun around in the air just in time to block the flying phoenix. 'I ask for the littlest bit of help, highness,' he said softly.
Jed held up a hand and threw a bright light at the phoenix. "I'm not sure how strongly my magic affects this creature, but I did what I could," he said quietly to the hovering hawk. "Tyche, be done with the angel!"
Tyche screeched a silent song and flapped his wings yet again.
A small beam of white light fell on Rei until she was bathed in the warmth. Eurus.she sighed mentally. She fell backwards thousands of feet before a strong pair or arms caught her. She glanced at the striking blue eyes of her savior and lifted a hand to stroke his face. "Eurus." she sighed before closing her eyes.
* * *
Jadeite paced nervously in the parlor that joined his bedchamber with the girls. "That bird." he whispered to himself. "That was no Avalon bird.it was a phoenix.a legendary phoenix." he said quickly. "What do you make of it?"
'Perhaps the creature is from far away.the coloring is that of Mars.'
'All phoenixes resemble each other, ignorant pest. Besides.the bird is most likely young.look how he cares for the girl.very sloppy if you ask me.'
Jadeite looked at the owl curiously. "And you are so old that you know all, Tyche?" he asked with a grin.
'I am three times your age, highness.I've watched many grow.'
"Why do you stay with me if you are so wise, Tyche? I would think you'd want to go off and explore the world more," Jadeite said reaching for the glass of brandy that Hiro held out for him. "Thank you, Hiro," he said to the man.
Hiro stared at the large owl and then the hawk. The birds had been scaring him since he first saw them fly through the window of his sire's bedroom twenty-four years ago. They never made a sound, yet communicated with the prince as though he were a bird. At times he believed the prince to be crazy for he spoke to these creatures as casually as any person would converse with a human. Shaking his head, Hiro went back to the sideboard and filled another glass of brandy for the one he knew would be gone soon.
'I stay, highness, because I want to, not because I have to.'
"Ares?" Jed asked as he sipped at the amber liquid.
'I stay because you are the most interesting master I have had. I've watched you grow, highness.it's a pleasure to stay on with you.'
Jed smiled shyly. "I believe I should go in there and see how the little angel is." he said quietly.
'Are you sure that is wise?'
Jed looked over his shoulder at the snowy owl and raised an eyebrow. "Why would it not be?"
'Tyche put a spell on the phoenix.he's afraid that the creature will wake and possibly attack.'
Jed smiled and turned his attention back to the door of Rei's bedchamber. "It'll be fine, Tyche. I'll just go in there and check on the sleeping angel.then I'll be back. There won't be enough time for the phoenix to attack, I promise you that."
'Highness.'
"Don't worry, Tyche," Jed said with a grin. He stepped away before the owl could say more and opened the door. He was surprised to feel the feather- light weight of Ares land on his shoulder. "Are you worried then, too?" he asked the golden bird.
'I'm eager to meet this phoenix!'
Jed laughed slightly at the golden hawk before pushing the door gently open.
'Don't wake her, highness.'
Jed glanced over his shoulder and grinned. There was no way he would wake the angel.if it were an angel. But how could it not be? She was utterly breathtaking.
As he stepped closer to her, he saw that her hair was still piled high on her head and that her white dress still clung to her as if it were a second skin. The outline of her breasts was clear in the dim light of the candle and her lashes created the most adorable crescents on her high cheekbones.
Jed looked to his right and noted that the legendary phoenix was still sleeping soundlessly in its new golden cage. Tyche had cast a spell on both the bird and the gold to ensure everyone's safety, though Jadeite was sure that the bird would be able to break out of its confinements as soon as he woke. Shaking his head, Jed approached the four poster bed and stood looking down at the maiden.
His hands itched to touch her as he watched the rise and fall of her chest. His body yearned to feel hers as he would any other woman in his court. He wanted to stroke her delicate skin and strip her down to ensure that she was unharmed from his birds. He wanted to smooth salve on her wounds, if she had any, and he wanted to rub away the soreness he knew would be there when she woke up. He wanted to strip his clothing off and gently push-
'Perhaps she would be more comfortable if she had some nourishment.' Ares said softly. Jadeite let out the breath he seemed to be holding and looked over his shoulder. The golden hawk was perched on a high-backed chair near the hearth and was basking in its warmth. Jadeite silently thanked the hawk for interrupting his thoughts. They had gotten too far from him. "Perhaps you are right." he forced out. His body was still shaking with the memories of his imagination. "Tyche cast the spell, did he not?" Jed asked wiping his brow. He had suddenly found moisture there and wondered how far his mind had traveled in those few moments.
The hawk flapped his right wing once as his silent signal for "yes."
"Then he should be the one to remove it." Jadeite said softly. "Ares."
'Of course, highness.' Ares mentally breathed. He drifted out of the room soundlessly and returned seconds later with the great snowy owl. 'Tyche worries that the phoenix will wake as soon as his mistress does,' Ares voiced with annoyance.
Jadeite shook his head. "It matters not.I'd like for her to decide if it is sleep she takes or food. I will not force either on her."
Tyche nodded and flew above the sleeping beauty. He gently flapped his wings and sang in his delicate, low voice. A soft white light emitted from his wings and covered the sleeping goddess.
Jadeite watched anxiously, fearing for the girl as the owl worked his magic.
Tyche finished with a final note and glided gracefully to the chair where Ares was sitting patiently. The two birds waited with bated breath as Jadeite slowly approached the girl.
She stirred slightly, Jadeite noticed as he gained more ground on her. He could feel his heart pumping quickly as he became increasingly nearer. He didn't understand why he was acting the way he was. It was just another pretty girl.
Rei opened her eyes slowly. Her surroundings were far different then they should have been. The air was lighter then that of Mars and sweeter smelling. If she reached out, she could almost smell Eurus sleeping beside her, yet she knew that was not possible. Eurus never slept.
She sat up faster than she had ever done in her life, yet her head protested mightily as she did so. "What's.happening?" she groaned.
"I'm afraid you might have hit your head earlier, child," Jadeite said as softly as he could. He didn't want to startle the girl.
Rei jerked her head in the direction of the voice and almost fell back with pain. There wasn't a bump on her head; she knew that. Only a powerful magic could make her head spin as it did. "Who are.you?" she asked as fiercely as she could. Her voice cracked as she spoke, as if every part of her body wasn't up to working properly.
"I found you in the garden's.you were being attacked by my birds," Jadeite said gently. It wasn't all a lie.
Rei looked at the dimly lit figure standing beside the bed and allowed her eyes to travel to his face. Despite the haziness before them, she noticed instantly who was in her company. How could she forget those incredibly blue eyes or that short-clipped wavy golden hair? He wasn't wearing the same blue suit as before, and she somehow found that comforting. Instead, he wore a simple white tunic and black breeches. His knee-high boots were dull and fading from use and she assumed that the blue sash around his waist symbolized his royal rank-though anyone who could not tell that he was a prince was surely out of their mind. He was amazingly handsome and powerfully built. "What."
"What are you doing here?" Jadeite asked for her.
She nodded numbly. The spell that was put on her wasn't wearing off.
"After I found you in the gardens, I took you here so that you could rest. You didn't look to be your best."
"How long.have I been here?" she forced out.
"Not so long.I carried you into this room, it's adjacent to the master suite, separated by a parlor."
Rei quickly glanced down the length of her body and sighed with obvious relief. At least this one wasn't a sex-driven fool like the other.
Jadeite stifled the urge to shout at her. Of course he didn't touch her. He wouldn't be so bold. Instead of shouting, he gritted his teeth and continued to watch her as she adjusted her dress. She looked up at him after a moment. "I'd like to go home, sir." she said softly.
Jadeite shook his head. "I can't allow you to leave. I sent word to his highness that there was an intruder on my grounds and he should be coming within the month to see who you are." he said slowly. He was proud of himself; he managed to tell the ridiculous lie without flinching. "When my lord comes, he'll decide whether to return you to your home or sell you."
"Sell? Surely.you.jest," she said slowly. She felt worse than before. "You cannot.mean to.sell me." she labored. She was finding it increasingly difficult to think.
"I do not," Jadeite said noting the sudden slur of her words. He turned to look at the snowy owl behind him and glared menacingly. 'I pray you have nothing to do with her lack of thought.' he said mentally. Speaking to his birds thus made his own energy lessen. He used it only for the private thoughts he needed to share with the two.
'I did nothing to her!' Ares said quickly.
"Tyche?" Jed fairly growled.
The white owl merely stared then flew out of the room.
Jadeite swore under his breath then turned back to the girl. "Are you well?" he asked stupidly.
Rei looked up at him with weary eyes and frowned. "I would.think you would.know." she said angrily.
Jadeite smiled despite himself. So the girl had as fiery spirit as she had her fiery looks. He turned to her and raised a blonde brow. "Would I?"
Rei finally took the time to look him fully in the face. It seemed as if the spell that had been cast on her was beginning to wear down. She stared into the eyes of this blonde god fully and realized that he was even more beautiful than she thought-yet the hard lines around his mouth prevented him from being as beautiful as she originally thought. He was the epitome of masculinity. His blonde waves and beautiful blue eyes were only adornments to that maleness. His flawlessly shaped nose matched perfectly with his grinning lips. He had the most dazzling white teeth. She nodded meekly at his disarming grin then turned her face away. She was certain that a blush was rising.
Jadeite smiled again and folded his hands behind his back. "I'm sorry, for I had not realized thus," he said gently.
It was then that Rei noticed his accented Japanese. She wasn't aware of what language they were speaking until she heard the accent. Her thoughts were beginning to come into focus; the spell was wearing thin. His words had a gentle Eastern English slur to them. She thought to sway him by switching her language to accommodate his needs, yet the fact that he spoke flawless Japanese had her wondering. "We still reside on Earth, do we not?" she asked.
Jadeite was stunned at her switch. The English that flowed from her lips was as immaculate as any princess' was. There was a slight accent to her words; her "r" was softer than his was; yet he could tell all the same that this girl was no ordinary peasant whore. "Where are you from?" he asked in English, purposefully steering her away from the topic she had just brought up.
"It matters naught.I would like to return there, though," she said with a frown.
Jadeite grit his teeth. This girl had a feisty spirit. "If you would but tell me, perhaps it could be arranged," he forced out. She looked away from him then to survey her surroundings. He saw when she noticed the magical phoenix and nearly groaned in his anger.
"Eurus! What have you done?" she yelled, swinging her legs off the bed and rising to her feet. She lost her footing before she was completely raised, and Jadeite had to grab her by the waist to ensure that she did not go elsewhere. She looked up into his eyes for a moment before shrugging off his assistance and pushing away from him. "You have no right!" she said loudly.
"'Twas but a bit of help, lady, nothing more," he said calmly, though that was not at all how he felt inside. He was seething with anger. This little girl lit a fire in him that he could not douse. Not only was it an anger that built up, but a strange desire to have her for his own.
He stepped away from her and crossed his arms over his chest then, for he was anxious to be away from her. Let Hiro deal with the maid. "Your bird is not harmed," he said slowly.
Rei glared at him with her stunning eyes and sluggishly made her way to the golden cage. "Eurus," she whispered gently.
It was in the smoothest voice Jed had ever heard. It was like silk rubbing against the skin. He no longer heard that bite of sarcasm or the hint of anger, but a sweet, angelic voice that made his ears prick. He could fall asleep listening to that voice, and perhaps forget everything that haunted him. He shook his head even as the thought was stemming. "The bird is only sleeping." Jed said to get his mind out of the clouds.
Rei turned to him with what he recognized as hope in her eyes. "Who cast the spell, for I am unable to break it," she said.
Jadeite felt a moment's worth of sympathy for the girl until she voiced her next comment. "Obviously the bearer of this spell is stupid enough to guess that the spell can be broken."
Jadeite clamped his jaw closed and strode toward her. "I'm sure you can call the bird from its slumber," he forced.
Rei gathered her brows in a frown and pointed to the bird. "Does it look like anyone could wake up this phoenix?" she asked angrily.
He no longer saw the innocent angel he thought he had seen. He now saw a beautiful dark she-devil, surely that was what she was. "You are his mistress, wake him." Jed said softly.
Rei stood her ground and waited impatiently. "Have you never heard of the rules of magic?"
"Rules do not exist."
"Only the one who cast the spell may lift it!" she retorted angrily.
"That has never been the case in my court." he said gently.
"Then you all must be tuned in to each other's power!" she nearly screamed.
Jadeite ground his teeth in annoyance and put his hand on the golden cage. His hand shook with an anger he had never felt before. He kept his anger in check though, unlike the seething beauty before him. It took a great amount of control, yet he was able to hold back from throttling the girl.
A white light seeped from his hand as if he bled over the cage with immortal blood until the brightness nearly blinded her. The light seemed to seep into her skin, however, for she could feel its warmth as if he had placed his hand on her.
She turned her head when the light faded and noted that he had indeed woken the bird. It was impossible! The magic gates were never this open on Mars. They remained as closed as possible. The only one who could change the course of another's magic was the high priestess. Rei strove to take that position next. It was said that she would conquer the old priestess. She had the self-control and the ability to become such. She turned to look at the phoenix fully and smiled with relief. Her life partner was alive and well. "Eurus." she whispered.
Jadeite closed his eyes tightly and took his hand away from the cage. Her voice had returned when she saw that her companion was awake. He shook his head and moved away from them, expecting an attack at any moment. Why had he woken the bird? Was he so frightened of her arguments that he had surrendered his power to her? It was ridiculous. "I suppose that now that your phoenix has been restored, you will flee home?" he said softly.
Rei turned to look at him and frowned. "You said yourself that I could go nowhere. How could I escape when I know naught where to go?" she asked.
"True enough." he replied. They had switched back to Japanese, seeing as how she panicked when she saw her bird. That had forced her mind to blank and her home language to be spoken. He tried again to remember where he heard that accent before. It was not the Japanese of the Earth Kingdom; he knew that from experience. And it was not that of Venus for Venus' civilians had the sweet lilt to their words, whether it was Japanese or French. It was not that of the moon, for he had been there several times when he was younger. No, the moon had a very royal quality to it, as if it had descended from the King of the Heavens. He knew the accent, but could not think readily on it. "I'll ask you again where you come from." he said softly.
Rei inclined her head slightly and pursed her lips. "From afar," she said.
Jadeite felt the wave of anger wash over him again. He had never been this angry with a woman. "Perhaps a few more hours in this room will change your mind. In time you will tell me," he said arrogantly.
'What a fool,' Eurus said with a groan befitting a bird.
Jadeite swung his head around to look at the red and gold beast. He knew he gaped, but did not care. "That.that bird spoke!" he said. "I've heard of magical phoenixes before, but I had thought that the only creatures who spoke resided in Avalon!" he said with amazement.
'I did not realize that this Earthling could hear me,' Eurus said softly, extending his wings agitatedly. 'Who are you?'
"I hear you only because I believe I can," Jadeite said softly.
Eurus inclined his head-much like his mistress did-and screeched beautifully. Jadeite had never believed that a screech from a bird could sound like a song, but then again, this was a phoenix.
'Do not disrespect the prince!' Ares said from his perch on the high- backed chair. 'You should kneel at his feet and beg forgiveness.'
Eurus fluffed up with pride. 'Then you should also kneel before-'
"You're birds speak as well, sire," Rei said quickly. She looked up at Eurus and glared. 'Do not reveal my identity, lovely,' she whispered in her mind.
"My birds flew from Avalon when I was being tuned into my land. They flew over the forests of the world and brought with them a power no one could master. They gave it to me.they appeared on my balcony when I was one and have not left my side," he said gazing at the golden hawk.
"How long have they stayed with you?" Rei asked boldly. For some reason she wished to learn all about this golden-haired prince.
Jadeite recovered from his momentary awe when he heard her question. "That is of no import to you," he said stiffly. He couldn't believe how much he had told her. He wanted to ensure that she did not know him fully. It was too late for that. Ares had already revealed his royal status. "I'll leave you alone," he said softly.
Jadeite strode toward the door of her chamber with purposeful strides. He wanted to be away from this enchantress. "I'll have someone bring you a small something to eat. I'm sure you're hungry," he whispered.
Rei turned and watched the golden hawk swoop down onto the prince's shoulder. She winced when she noticed the massive claws of the beast sink into his shoulder. She wondered why the man didn't shrug off the creature. "Arigato," she whispered when his statement registered in her mind, "I am a little hungry," she admitted.
Jadeite nodded slightly and began turning the knob on the oak doors.
"Matte!" Rei cried. She watched him look over his shoulder, his blue eyes heavy with exhaustion. "What is your name, sire?" she asked softly.
Jadeite pondered the question. Could it hurt? Most likely it wouldn't. It was just a name, after all. "Jadeite." he whispered.
"Jadeite?" Rei repeated, the name slipping off her tongue like liquid silk.
Jadeite nodded and reached for the door. He stopped when he heard her soft spoken comment. "I beg your pardon?" he said turning to face her.
Her cheeks were flushed with color and she clutched at the white fabric of her gown as though it would disappear if she did not. "You may call me Reina, sire." she said.
Jadeite smiled faintly and opened the door. "I'll write a missive and have it delivered to Endymion as soon as possible," he said quietly. He left before she could thank him, or argue with him. He was glad of that.