I The Black Rose Curse
By Princess Serena
Chapter 6
Yes, I know. You'd thought it'd be out earlier, but it's not. I'm in two plays, Annie and the Music Man. I have Music Man practice during the day and the Annie at night. Luckily, Annie is almost over. I bet that by the time I'm done this chapter, Annie will be over. Yay. It's been way too much. I'm been extremely tired. Anyway, I'd like to thank Usagi Usako Chiba for reviewing my story again on fanfiction.net. Thanks again! And thank you all for reading my story and for actually reading this far. ^_^ Now, on to the story!
Disclaimer: I have no power whatsoever over the Sailor Moon characters.
***
Darien awoke the next morning under the luxury of the sunlight pouring in through the windows of the French doors. The prince lay there, enjoying the feeling of relaxation and the sun beating upon his body.
He opened his eyes and remembered the past night's events. He smiled lightly to himself, and then he remembered what Andrew said. He frowned, not wanting to force Serena into doing something just to make HIM happy. Plus, he didn't want her to get in trouble. If anything, he didn't want to put her in any kind of danger.
The prince sighed again and pressed his head into his pillow. He couldn't believe he was going to think this, or let this happen, but he was going to let fate decide. If it was meant to be, then it was. If not, then he'd have to live with it.
But he was 15 years old! And his mother was getting antsy about him finding a girlfriend. She would always talk about how she met his father when she was 15, and he was 16, and then they got married when he was 19. The queen wanted to make sure the kingdom kept going on, since he didn't have any siblings, and she didn't want to have to force a wife on him, she was making him meet any lady she thought was nice. Unfortunately, he didn't share the same thoughts as his mother does on different women, which only makes his point clear that he had to do something about Serena. Anything, just to get her noticed by his mother. He just had to think. A plan. that's what he need. But what plan? He didn't know. It was a time to visit the guy of good advice, his best friend.
***
Serena skipped down the corridor of the castle to the throne room. The queen and king had called her down. Apparently, she had wanted to talk Serena about the outfit the prince wore the previous night. She smiled, pretty sure that she had like it.
Her skipping slowed down to a sulking walk as she thought the opposite. What if she didn't like it? What if she hated it? What if she despised it so much that she was going to kick her out of the castle?
Serena bit her lip as she neared the throne room. She swallowed hard and approached the guards. The guard on the left asked her what her business was with the king and queen, and she explained. The guards nodded and allowed her in.
She walked down the red carpet to where the king and queen sat in their thrones. She gulped again and approached the king and queen. She bent down on one knee and bowed her head. "Your majesties," she managed to croak out. "You wanted to see me?"
Serena's palms were sweaty due to nervousness, and her throat was dry. She swallowed again, trying to make the dry feeling go away. Unfortunately, it didn't.
It seemed like forever, but the queen finally answered. "Yes, dear. I would like to talk to you about the outfit you made for my son last night."
"Yes, your majesty," she answered hoarsely.
"Well," the queen continued. "I thought you did a wonderful job. It was your first time, and I was very impressed."
Serena was taken aback by her kind words. She liked it? She was impressed? She rejoiced inwardly and smiled slightly on the outside. She glanced up at the queen for a second, her head still bowed. "Th-thank you, your majesty." She slapped herself mentally for stuttering.
"You're very welcome."
Serena furrowed her eyebrows. She's never known the queen to act this away around a servant. Was she THAT impressed?
"Anyway," the queen continued. "That's not the only reason I have brought you here. I am very sorry to say that a couple of my musicians quit, and I am looking for anyone who is musically talented. Since I hear very good things about you from other servants talking, I would like you to spread the word to people and servants around that for anyone musically talented to please come and see me at once for a job."
Serena was surprised. People thought well of her? She never knew that. Well, obviously she didn't know that if she was surprised. But why did people think highly of her? Then she snapped out of her thought and nodded. "Yes, of-of course, your majesty." She slapped herself mentally again. 'Do I have to stutter so much?!' "I-I will send word right away." 'There I go again.'
The queen smiled delightfully. Of course, Serena couldn't see it since her head was bowed and she was too afraid to look up. Still, Serena could sense the smile in her words. "Oh!" the queen exclaimed. "Thank you so much!"
Serena glanced up at the ecstatic queen. "Of course, your majesty. It would never be a problem."
"Thank you again, Serena."
Serena was once again surprised. She almost stumbled backward. The queen knew HER name! Her name! "You are quite welcome, your majesty."
The queen dismissed her and Serena stood up, her head still bowed. She turned around and a smile tugged at her lips. That's when she heard the queen say, "I can see why people think of you highly."
Serena's smile widened and sauntered out the door.
***
Serena skipped down the hallway, very happy. She was so happy that she started singing a song to herself.
'I wish I could ride on the shadows of clouds That drift across the hill; Over the meadow and out of sight They sweep so smooth and still. Over the daisy field they passed, And not a daisy stirred; They moved like chariots grand and slow,
But never a sound was heard.'
Serena continued to sing too loudly, not realizing that she had an audience.
***
Darien walked down the corridor towards the throne room where his mother had asked to see him. He rolled his eyes and thought, 'Probably about Lady Beryl. Oh, what joy.' He sighed and continued down the hall.
That was until he heard something. Someone was singing, and it was beautiful. Probably the most beautiful he's ever heard. His eyes widened as he stopped and listened.
'Over the daisy field they passed, And not a daisy stirred; They moved like chariots grand and slow, But never a sound was heard.'
Darien jogged down the hall and turned the corner only to see a certain angel singing her heart. His heart skipped a beat. She had an AMAZING voice! Then a thought came to him. Since his mother had just lost her musicians, Serena could sing for her instead! His heart skipped another beat. Maybe it was meant to be!
The prince followed her down the corridor and listened to her beautiful voice.
'I wish I could ride on the shadows of clouds, Could ride till, the journey done, I'd find myself at the end of the world, Where the earth and the sky are one.'
Darien then realized she was done her song and he snapped back out of the cloud. He clapped lightly and watched as she spun around quickly, her eyes wide as orbs.
He watched amused as she struggled to talk. "Y-you heard me?"
Darien nodded, smiling and saw her cheeks stain pink. "You have to sing for my mother," he suggested.
Serena's eyes widened even more and she shook her head. "I-I can't sing."
"I just heard you!" he replied. "You have an amazingly beautiful voice! I'm sure she would love to here you sing. It could be like a second job."
Darien watched as the angel bit her lip in deep thought. Then she finally answered. "I really don't know. I was only singing out of my joy. I don't perform. I never had. I'm sure she'll want someone with experience-"
Darien cut her off. "No, he just wants someone who is good. And you are better than good!" Darien sighed as he saw her doubtful look. "Ok. Listen. If I could ask you favor for the rest of my life, I would ask you to take up this job. Please, just try. If you don't like it, then you can quit. Please, just try it once," he pleaded.
Serena sighed, still looking doubtful. But then she finally gave in. "Alright, but only because I'm doing a favor for you. And don't expect me to do it more than once, 'cause I probably won't."
Darien's eyes brightened instantly. "Thank you! Now come on, you're coming down with me to my mother to sing for her so she can hear how wonderful you are." He grabbed her small hand, but immediately pulled away.
He stared at her and she stared back. 'What was that?' As he grabbed her hand, he felt a shock. He didn't know what it was, but it startled him. This surprised him, and it looked like Serena noticed. He laughed nervously and took her hand again, and was relieved that he didn't feel it again. He jogged down the hall to throne room, pulling her with him.
The guards saw him and opened the doors for the two to pass. Darien stopped running, but didn't let go of her hand. When his mother and father saw him, they smiled. The queen looked at Serena quizzically, but Darien gave her the look telling her that he'll explain everything.
Once they were in front of them, Darien let go of her hand and bowed, and then watched as Serena knelt down on one knee and bowed her head. He smiled at her, then turned back to his mother and father. "Mother, Father," he began. "You told me you wanted to see me, but before we talk, I wanted to tell you about this girl, Serena."
"I know who she is, Darien. I just talked to her not that long ago," his mother replied.
"Oh, alright." He cleared his throat. "Anyway, as I was saying." he paused and pulled Serena up onto her feet. She looked startled, but stood up anyway, yet she kept her head bowed. Darien continued. "I was walking down the corridor to come here when I heard Serena singing joyfully. I thought her singing was so beautiful, and I knew that you just lost your musicians, so I thought maybe she could sing for you instead of having music with no words."
The queen smiled delightedly then turned to Serena. "Serena, dear, why didn't you tell me that you could sing?"
Darien could tell that Serena was nervous, but he didn't say anything. Serena answered, "Well, I never thought I could sing well. I just sang for fun." Her voice came out sounding slightly dry, out of nervousness, no doubt, yet he still loved how she talked.
The queen smiled again. "Well, why don't you sing a little bit of a song, and then maybe you can sing for me again at a ball or party."
Serena let out a small, almost inaudible, squeak of surprise, but nodded her head. She hesitated to sing.
Queen Isabelle laughed lightly. "Go on. There is no need to be frightened." The king just smiled at Serena and nodded at her to go on and sing.
Serena's face flushed slightly, and Darien nudged her, signaling for her to sing. And then she started with her wonderful voice.
'I wish I could ride on the shadows of clouds
That drift across the hill; Over the meadow and out of sight They sweep so smooth and still.'
Darien listened to her beautiful voice, but then she stopped. He looked over at her and saw her looking up at the king and queen, yet still being respectful and bowing her head.
Darien's mother and father looked taken by her voice. The queen smiled eagerly. "Oh! I love that song! Go on, dear! Keep singing!"
Serena nodded and Darien turned his attention back to the singing angel.
'Over the daisy field they passed, And not a daisy stirred; They moved like chariots grand and slow, But never a sound was heard. I wish I could ride on the shadows of clouds, Could ride till, the journey done, I'd find myself at the end of the world, Where the earth and the sky are one.'
When Serena finished, the queen, king, and their son broke out in applause.
"Oh! You have a wonderful voice!" the queen exclaimed.
"Yes, very beautiful," the king agreed.
Darien nodded, while a smile tugged at his lips. "I agree very strongly."
"Oh, Serena! You must sing at one of our balls for us!"
Darien saw Serena's head shoot up at the queen, but saw that she realized her "rudeness." Of course, he knew she wasn't being rude, but he thought it was sweet. He smiled inwardly, yet he didn't need to because he was already smiling outwardly.
"Your majesty, I am very flattered that you think that I have a good voice," she replied, "but-"
"Oh! You must sing! Please say you will! I promise I will get someone to play the music for you!" the queen interrupted her.
The prince saw Serena blush more harshly. "Well," she croaked. "If you insist."
"Oh, thank you dear! And please say you will sing that song!"
Serena nodded.
"Thank you again! I knew you would do it! You are so sweet! Thank you!" Queen Isabelle smiled happily.
Serena smiled weakly and nodded again. "Thank you, your majesties, for giving me this. job."
"Anything for a sweet girl with a beautiful voice!" the queen replied delightedly.
Serena curtsied. "Thank you again, your majesties." With that, Darien watched as Serena left, slightly out of it. He chuckled lightly, then turned to his parents.
He cleared his throat. "You wanted to see me about something?"
The queen looked at her husband, then back to her son. "Yes, Darien. We." Darien watched her struggle to get the words out. She looked to her husband for help.
The king spoke up. "Your mother and I were talking, and we decided to let Lady Beryl move into the castle in a couple of years."
Darien jaw dropped. He felt like his jaw was on the floor. He was in great shock. Move in?! To the castle?! What were they getting at?! "What?!"
"Well," his mother said. "Your father thinks that she's a nice girl, too. And we thought it might help out your relationship with her-"
Darien cut it. "I don't want a relationship with her! I don't like her!"
"Darien!" His father was now on his feet. "You will not speak to us in that tone!"
Darien face was red from anger. "Yes, sir."
"Now, Lady Beryl WILL move into the castle in a couple of years, and you WILL be nice to her. Is that understood?" his father roared.
Darien nodded, his jaw tight and his fists clenched at his sides from frustration.
King Bryan sat back down in his throne. "You are dismissed," she said dejectedly.
Darien grunted and turned his back on them. He walked out of the door, extremely angered. Lady Beryl?! Moving in?! He'd have to do something about that. He had to think of a plan. Maybe he could suggest courting Serena. Maybe that would change their minds about letting Beryl move in, since they would know he fancied someone else.
Darien sighed and stomped down the hallway back to his room.
***
Serena burst into the laundry room, causing a stir amongst the women. The blonde didn't care, though. She was trying to find Molly.
Once Serena had spotted her, she dashed to her, almost knocking her down."
"Oy! Serena! What's wrong?" her friend asked concerned.
"Oh, Molly! There's nothing wrong," she replied. "It's just that..." She paused. "The queen wants me to sing at one of her balls!"
Molly screamed. "Are you serious?!"
"Yes!"
"Oh my gods, Serena!"
The two girls jumped up and down excitedly. Then Molly asked, "What are you going to sing?"
"'Cloud Shadows.' The queen loves that song, and so do I."
Molly squealed again. "Oh! I love that song too! I have to see you sing it!"
"Shh! Girls, people are going to come in here and yell at us! Keep it down!" a woman shushed them.
The two best friends quieted down, they smiled widely at each other. "Oh, what are you going to wear? We have to find you something!" Molly exclaimed.
"But... where?"
"I dunno. We have to go into town someday. And you're gonna have to let me pick out your dress."
Serena nodded. "Right, but maybe I should check with the queen on what I should wear."
Molly nodded and stated that would be a good idea.
"Oh! I can't wait!" Molly screeched.
"Yes, but I'm a little nervous..."
"Oh, don't worry about that," Molly replied as if it didn't matter. "I'll help you practice."
"You will? Thank you, Molly!" Serena exclaimed and leapt to her best friend and hugged her.
Molly smiled brightly and hugged her back. "No problem!"
***
Serena ran down the hall early the next morning to find Molly, once again. She swung open the oak door and, not meaning to, startled Molly.
"What's up? What's going on?" asked Molly.
Serena squealed with glee. "You will NOT believe this!"
"Serena, tell me! The suspense is KILLING me!" her friend urged on.
Serena squealed again. "The queen..." She paused, watching Molly's face, then continued, "told me that you and I could take a day off to find a dress for me! And she said that you could come to the ball and see me, since you're my best friend, and that you'd be picking out a gown, too!"
Molly screamed with delight! "Oh, my gods! I can't believe this!"
"But wait!" Serena stopped her. "That's not all! She gave me money to go and buy the dresses! She said that we didn't have to pay for them!"
By that time, both of the girls were screaming with happiness. Once they calmed themselves down, then got dressed in fairly decent clothes and set out to the town with a pocket full of gold coins.
They entered the center of town, smiling happily. There were some many people with different things to do. People buying pottery, some buying flowers, some buying food, and some buying clothes. Of course, that probably wasn't the only reason people were here. That's only what Serena saw. The center of town seemed to go on forever. She didn't remember that last time she was here.
Serena looked at Molly and they started discussing where they should go first. They decided to start at the beginning of the town and look dresses and accessories.
Serena pointed out a store called "Velvet" that had a beautiful green dress in the display window. She pulled Molly inside, demanding that she try it on.
She waited outside of a small room for Molly. When Molly came out she gasped. "Molly! That dress looks gorgeous on you!" Serena complimented.
Molly spun around, the dress twirling with her. It was a dark green velvet dress. It had a high "princess" waist embroidered in gold. The sleeves were long and clung to her small arms. The rest of the dress flowed beautifully with her figure. "You really think so, Serena?" Molly asked, a little doubtful.
"Yes! This is YOUR dress! We are marching up to the salesman and buying it RIGHT NOW," Serena insisted.
Molly smiled widely and went back into the small room. She returned a little while later and the two of them paid for the dress. The man handed them a sack to put the dress in, and the two girls thanked him. They sauntered out into the sunlight again, this time looking for a dress for Serena.
They visited various shops, but still hadn't found a dress for Serena. They took a short break to have lunch, then went back to looking around. In the mean time, they had found a necklace for Molly: a gold chain with a crystal teardrop charm.
By the time is was 2:00, Serena was about to give up. "I dunno, Molly. I mean, if I haven't found a dress by now, maybe I'm just not meant to find a dress."
"Aw, come on, Serena. We'll find one," Molly said encouragingly.
Serena smiled weakly as Molly pulled her into a shop called "Silver Moon." "I like the name of the store," she said and giggled lightly.
Molly smiled and pulled Serena over to the gowns department. Serena trudge next to her, staring in awe at all the gorgeous gowns.
Just then, a woman with fluffy dark brown hair walked up to them smiling. She obviously worked there. "Hello," she said, her voice coated with sugar. "May I help you?"
Serena watched as Molly took the opportunity to help her. "Yes," Molly replied. "My friend and I are looking for a dress for her." Molly pointed to Serena.
"Ah, yes. Let me help." The woman glided over to a rack of dresses, then turned and looked at Serena. "Do you know your size?"
"Er..." Serena stuttered. "Not really, sorry."
"No problem," the woman replied sweetly. "By the way, my name's Amanda, if you need anything else." (AN: Just for you, Mandy! ^_^) Amanda nodded, studying Serena, trying to find out her size. "Yes, I believe that you might be a 5."
Amanda walked over to the size 5 rack and turned around, studying Serena again. "Hmm..." she thought out loud. "A light blue, a silver, a sunlight yellow, a pink, hmm.... Any color would look good on you." She turned back to the gowns and picked out a bunch. "Try these on," Amanda instructed and pointed to a small room in the back, similar to the other store.
Serena took the gowns and headed over to the dressing room to try them on. The woman had picked out a light blue dress, a red dress, a yellow dress, a white dress, and a silver dress for her to try on.
She sighed, wishing it was easier than this. But, of course, it wasn't.
***
Darien muttered unhappily as he trudged through town with his best friend. His mother had made him pick up the dress she had ordered at "Silver Moon" again. But this time, he had brought Andrew along, which was a BIG mistake. All he was talking about was Jessica.
"...and her eyes! Her eyes are sooooo beautiful. I could just stare in them forever. Her hair! Her hair is so soft and shiny. I mean, everything about her is-"
"Andrew, just shut up about that girl, ok?" Darien interrupted him exasperatedly.
"Oh, SORRY, Mister I'm-Pissed-Off-Because-My-Life-Isn't-Going-As- Planned-And-The-Girl-I-Like-Is-Out-Of-Reach-And-The-Annoying-Lady-Beryl-Is- Coming-To-Live-At-The-Castle-In-A-Few-Years." Andrew rolled his eyes.
Darien sighed. "Well, I'm not Mister I-Try-And-Date-Every-Attractive- Girl-I-See-Even-If-I'm-Already-Dating-Another-Girl."
"Yeah, whatever," was Andrew's reply.
"Come on. That faster we pick up that dress, the faster we can get out of here," the prince said and pulled Andrew along.
***
Serena came out in the silver dress. She had tried on the others and neither of them appealed to her, even though Amanda and Molly like them. This one, however, seemed different. It had a thin transparent material with tiny silver sparkles in it over the silver material, making the whole dress seem to shine and sparkle. It had a tight bodice and waist, the same silver color under the transparent material. A medium-sized ribbon was wrapped around her waist (it, too, was silver and sparkly), and tied into a little bow in the back. All the fabric on the dress was made of silk, with an exception of the ribbon and transparent material, which was made of satin. The sleeves where short sleeved and it had a wide, oval neck, which would be good to wear a necklace to show off. She spun around twice, enjoying the feeling of it against her skin.
"Serena! That's the dress! That's the one you ARE going to get!" Molly exclaimed.
Serena smiled. "I was thinking the same thing."
Amanda walked up, slightly out of breath. "Sorry, I have another customer up at the front. Have you made a decision?"
Serena nodded and gesture with her hand to the dress she was wearing.
Amanda beamed. "Great choice. I'll take the ones you don't want and you can come up to the front when you are ready." With that, the woman took the other dresses and zoomed off.
Once Serena had taken off the dress and resumed to her old clothes, they made their way up to the front of the store to pay for the dress only to come face to face with the prince.
***
The prince stood at the front of the store, listening to Andrew ramble on about Lady Jessica again. The woman, who told the prince to address her by the name of Amanda, had gone to check on two other customers in the back of the store. He waited patiently until she finally came back, partly out of breath and holding 5 dresses in her arms.
"I'm sorry it took me so long, your lordship," she said and put the dresses down on a spare chair. She turned around and smiled lightly. "How may I help you?"
"My mother's dress, please?"
"Oh, yes, of course! One second, your lordship, if you will." The woman hurried into the side room of the store, closed off by a tattered curtain.
Darien sighed and waited. Once again, Andrew had started up again with his endless rambling. But, at that moment, a girl with long golden tresses strutted up to the front of the store, talking to another girl beside her. Darien's eyes widened and he smiled, realizing whom it was.
Darien saw Serena notice him. She smiled lightly, and only then did he realize that she was holding some silver material in her arms. "What's that you have?" Darien asked, teasingly.
"A-a dress for the next party the queen has," she replied, her head bowed slightly.
The prince laughed. "I told you, you don't have to bow your head at me." He laughed again.
Serena's head snapped up and she smiled. "Oh, right."
"Do you have any jewelry for you to wear with that dress?" he asked, wanting to buy her something.... anything.
By this time, he noticed Andrew had stopped yapping and was observing him and Serena very closely. Darien noticed that Andrew had realized this was the servant girl he had been talking about not that long ago.
"Well, no... not really," Serena began. "But I'm about to use all my money on this dress and-"
"I'll buy you something then!" Darien exclaimed. "You're gonna need a piece of jewelry with THAT dress."
Darien saw Serena hesitate, then nod her head. "I guess, if you insist."
"I do," Darien agreed. "I'll take you and your friend to the jeweler and you can each pick out a piece of jewelry."
Darien saw Serena's friend's eyes lighten. She nudged Serena, and Serena smiled, then she turned to Darien. "Uh... Prince, this is my best friend, Molly."
"Pleased to meet you, your highness." Molly bowed her head.
Darien laughed. "Since your Serena's best friend, you don't have to bow to me." Then he turned to Serena. "Please, call me Darien." Darien felt Andrew nudge him hard in the back. The prince rolled his eyes and pulled Andrew forward. "Serena, Molly, this is Andrew, my best friend and a pain in the butt."
Andrew punched Darien lightly and playfully in the arm, but Darien just laughed. "Andrew, this is Serena," he gestured to Serena. "And Molly," he gestured to Molly."
"Please to meet you, Serena, Molly."
"Pleased to meet you," the two girls chorused.
At that point, Amanda came out with a dark red dress. She put it nicely in a sack and handed it to Darien. "Thank you for shopping at 'Silver Moon.' Please come again."
Darien was amused by the woman's fake line. He chuckled lightly to himself and waited as Serena and Molly paid for the dress.
The woman handed Serena her sack and repeated the same line, then went back in the closed off room.
The prince, his best friend, and the two girls stepped out into the sunlight. Darien pointed across the street. "We'll go to that jeweler to get you girls something."
Darien walked across the street with Andrew, Serena, and Molly following him. They walked into the shop named "Angel Tears," for its diamonds looked like angels had cried and humans had captured their tears.
Darien smiled. He was going to be buying something for her, and then she'd always wear it, and then they'd fall madly in love with each other and live happily ever after.
Darien shook his head. She was a friend! Not a girlfriend. Why had he been thinking these thoughts? He did not know, but he had to rid his mind of them, before they started completely taking over his whole brain.
***
Serena couldn't believe this. Everywhere she went the prince seemed to be there. Why? Why did she always see him? And why was he being nice to her, a mere servant? It just didn't make any sense. But she followed along with it. It was nice having royalty being nice to her.
Not only was he being nice to her, he was buying her jewelry! Ok, not just her, but her and her best friend! And that was very hard to believe for some reason.
She gaped at the store. She'd never seen so much gold and silver and gemstones in her life. They were so beautiful.
"Pick whatever you like," she heard the prince say.
Serena eyes widened even more. Whatever she liked? She liked everything! Of course, she couldn't ask for that, so she had to decide on one.
Molly grabbed Serena's arm. "Come on, Serena! I'll help you pick out a necklace!" With that comment, Molly dragged Serena across the store, looking at the various pieces of jewelry. "Ooooh! Look at this one! No, this one! Wait! What about this one?"
Serena laughed. "I'd pick out a bracelet since you've already got a necklace."
Molly nodded thoughtfully. "Right," she replied, then hurried over to the bracelet section.
Serena smiled and shook her head, then continued to look around at the necklaces. She didn't realize it, but the prince was standing right next to her as she admired every single piece of jewelry.
"Found one, yet?" he asked, smiling.
"Nope. But, ya know, you don't have to do this."
"But I want to. I insist."
"You're being too nice to me. You're a prince, and I'm a servant. You didn't have to get me that singing job and you don't have to buy me anything. Besides, I didn't think royalty is suppose to talk to lesser-than- nobodies like me," Serena replied coldly.
"Whoa. Don't get all icy on me," Darien said, taken aback. "Look, don't EVER think that. You're not a "lesser-than-nobody." At least, in my eyes you aren't. You're a sweet, kind girl that doesn't deserve to be a servant. You deserve much more. And I'm nice to you because I like you."
"R-really?" Serena stuttered unbelievably.
"Of course. Now, pick out a necklace and I'll buy it for you."
Serena smiled happily. She jumped towards him and hugged him. To her surprise, he hugged her as well. She felt safe and warm in his arms. She didn't want to leave that comfort. But, of course, all good things must come to an end.
They pulled apart, and Darien helped Serena pick out a necklace. Serena gasped when she saw one. It had a tiny, delicate silver chain. On the chain rested a diamond crescent moon charm. It was the most beautiful thing she'd ever seen in her life. She stared in awe at it, until she realized that a salesman was taking it and walking over to the front with Darien. Serena scurried over to them.
Molly ran over as well, holding a gold bracelet. The prince took it, paid for the two items, then handed the small black velvet bags to their owners. "Here you go, ladies," the prince said formally.
Serena giggled as she took the bag and walked out of the store with them.
"I'm sure that necklace will look great with that dress you bought, which, by the way, may I see?" Darien asked, raising a thick, dark eyebrow.
Serena shook her head, smiling lightly and mischievously. "Nope. You gotta wait."
"Aww, come on, please?" the handsome prince asked, trying to use his charm to persuade her. But, to his despair, she resisted,
"Nope. I said you had to wait until the next ball," she scolded.
Darien let out a huff, crossed his arms, and made a pouty face like a child not getting what he wanted. Darien, however, could not hold this pose for long and broke out laughing.
Serena giggled with him, when Andrew comment, "Ya know, that look suits you."
Darien punched him playfully in the arm. "Ya know what Andrew? You.. you.." He paused, not being able to think of a suitable name for him.
Andrew laughed, then turned to Serena. "So, you're gonna be at the next ball, huh? Where do you live?"
"I'm. I'm a servant. in the castle," she replied meekly.
"YOU?! YOU'RE a servant?!" Andrew exclaimed unbelievably. To Darien's surprise, he hadn't noticed that she was the servant he was talking about.
Serena laughed nervously. "Y-yeah. Is that a problem, sir?"
Andrew shook his head. "No! No, of course not. You just don't look like one. You or your friend, Molly."
"Oh," she replied. "I guess I'll take that as a compliment."
Andrew nodded his head slowly. "I guess that is. I mean, I don't think anyone would WANT to look like a servant, and you're too pretty to be a servant."
Darien nudged Andrew harshly in the back, physically telling him not to steal his girl.
Serena blushed. "Th-thank you."
Andrew waved his hand in the air as if blowing it away. "No problem. Just telling the truth."
Darien cleared his throat. "So, Serena, what song are you going to be singing at the ball? That one you sang for my mother, or a different one?"
"You sing? Oh! You must have a wonderful voice!" Andrew praised.
Serena blushed. "Well, the prince and the queen think so."
"Oh! She does!" Molly cut in. "Serena, please sing something for us? Pleeeease!"
"Yeah, Serena," Andrew egged on. "I wanna hear you sing."
"Look, if she doesn't want to sing, then she doesn't have to!" the prince said and sighed.
"Thank you," Serena replied.
"Anyway, as I was saying before I was rudely interrupted," the prince shot and icy glare at his best friend. "What song will you sing?"
"Probably just that one I was singing earlier. Her majesty seemed to like it."
"Oh, yes. That's a beautiful song," the prince cooed. "And it sounds beautiful in your voice.
"What song is that?" Andrew asked curiously.
"Cloud Shadows," she replied meekly while a blush stained her cheeks.
"Ah. That's a song most girls would like," Andrew commented.
"Yeah, ok, whatever," Molly replied to that and rolled her eyes.
"Anyway," the prince said as they reached the castle gardens where the servant girls entered the town from. "I'm actually looking forward to another of my mother's balls, which is a first." He chuckled.
Serena smiled. "You don't like them, you mean?"
"Well, she throws them so continuously that they get quite boring. Plus she's always in my face about getting a girlfriend and what-not."
"Oh, that must stink," the golden-headed girl replied quietly. 'So, he must have a girlfriend, right?' Serena thought. 'With all the matchmaking that his mother does, he must obviously have found someone that he finds attractive. That's only what a man looks for in a girl, right?'
"It gets quite annoying, actually," the prince pointed out. "She finds girls that just aren't. just aren't for me," he finished.
"Oh! So you don't have a girlfriend?" Serena asked hopefully.
"Oh, no. Of course not. I'd never court a girl that my mother wants me to."
"Oh. Well, that's good, I guess," Serena said, feeling much relieved. Serena turned around to Molly and said to her, "Molly, you can go back. I'll be there in a second."
Molly nodded and headed back to the servants' quarters while Darien told the same thing to his friend. Once their best friends were out of sight, they turned to each other.
"Well, I just wanted to say thank you so much for buying me this necklace. It's beautiful!" Serena said happily and leapt into his arms for a hug.
Serena felt Darien hug her back tight. She took a deep breath in, memorizing his smell. 'Mmm.' she though. 'Roses and chocolate.'
When they pulled away, Serena was very disappointed having to lose that sense of security around, but also happy to see him smiling.
"I had a very fun day with you, Serena," the prince said, still smiling.
Serena smiled back brightly. "And I with you. I'm very glad I got to see you again. And I must say I am looking forward to singing at the ball, my prince."
"Darien," he said, correcting her. "And I will be looking forward to seeing you there, too, in that dress which I'm sure will make you look even more beautiful than you already are." With that, he flashed her one of his dazzling smiles. Then he took her hand in his and bowed, brushing his lips lightly across her knuckles.
Serena blushed harshly and watched at the prince straitened himself up and turn on his heel, walking back to the castle.
Was the prince flirting with her? Did he really like her? She sure hoped so. She smiled dreamily and headed back to the servants' quarters.
***
Woo hoo! Chapter 6 is done! *dances around* Hee hee! This is the longest chapter ever! In Microsoft Word, it is. *counts* 23 pages! Whoa! A lot more than I expected to write. ^_^ Well, look out for chapter 7! That chapter is gonna be based on the ball, and let's see what is gonna happen there. I myself dunno yet. ^_^ Well, let's see how things turn out. Thanks to all my loyal readers! ^_^
xoxo Sere
Yes, I know. You'd thought it'd be out earlier, but it's not. I'm in two plays, Annie and the Music Man. I have Music Man practice during the day and the Annie at night. Luckily, Annie is almost over. I bet that by the time I'm done this chapter, Annie will be over. Yay. It's been way too much. I'm been extremely tired. Anyway, I'd like to thank Usagi Usako Chiba for reviewing my story again on fanfiction.net. Thanks again! And thank you all for reading my story and for actually reading this far. ^_^ Now, on to the story!
Disclaimer: I have no power whatsoever over the Sailor Moon characters.
***
Darien awoke the next morning under the luxury of the sunlight pouring in through the windows of the French doors. The prince lay there, enjoying the feeling of relaxation and the sun beating upon his body.
He opened his eyes and remembered the past night's events. He smiled lightly to himself, and then he remembered what Andrew said. He frowned, not wanting to force Serena into doing something just to make HIM happy. Plus, he didn't want her to get in trouble. If anything, he didn't want to put her in any kind of danger.
The prince sighed again and pressed his head into his pillow. He couldn't believe he was going to think this, or let this happen, but he was going to let fate decide. If it was meant to be, then it was. If not, then he'd have to live with it.
But he was 15 years old! And his mother was getting antsy about him finding a girlfriend. She would always talk about how she met his father when she was 15, and he was 16, and then they got married when he was 19. The queen wanted to make sure the kingdom kept going on, since he didn't have any siblings, and she didn't want to have to force a wife on him, she was making him meet any lady she thought was nice. Unfortunately, he didn't share the same thoughts as his mother does on different women, which only makes his point clear that he had to do something about Serena. Anything, just to get her noticed by his mother. He just had to think. A plan. that's what he need. But what plan? He didn't know. It was a time to visit the guy of good advice, his best friend.
***
Serena skipped down the corridor of the castle to the throne room. The queen and king had called her down. Apparently, she had wanted to talk Serena about the outfit the prince wore the previous night. She smiled, pretty sure that she had like it.
Her skipping slowed down to a sulking walk as she thought the opposite. What if she didn't like it? What if she hated it? What if she despised it so much that she was going to kick her out of the castle?
Serena bit her lip as she neared the throne room. She swallowed hard and approached the guards. The guard on the left asked her what her business was with the king and queen, and she explained. The guards nodded and allowed her in.
She walked down the red carpet to where the king and queen sat in their thrones. She gulped again and approached the king and queen. She bent down on one knee and bowed her head. "Your majesties," she managed to croak out. "You wanted to see me?"
Serena's palms were sweaty due to nervousness, and her throat was dry. She swallowed again, trying to make the dry feeling go away. Unfortunately, it didn't.
It seemed like forever, but the queen finally answered. "Yes, dear. I would like to talk to you about the outfit you made for my son last night."
"Yes, your majesty," she answered hoarsely.
"Well," the queen continued. "I thought you did a wonderful job. It was your first time, and I was very impressed."
Serena was taken aback by her kind words. She liked it? She was impressed? She rejoiced inwardly and smiled slightly on the outside. She glanced up at the queen for a second, her head still bowed. "Th-thank you, your majesty." She slapped herself mentally for stuttering.
"You're very welcome."
Serena furrowed her eyebrows. She's never known the queen to act this away around a servant. Was she THAT impressed?
"Anyway," the queen continued. "That's not the only reason I have brought you here. I am very sorry to say that a couple of my musicians quit, and I am looking for anyone who is musically talented. Since I hear very good things about you from other servants talking, I would like you to spread the word to people and servants around that for anyone musically talented to please come and see me at once for a job."
Serena was surprised. People thought well of her? She never knew that. Well, obviously she didn't know that if she was surprised. But why did people think highly of her? Then she snapped out of her thought and nodded. "Yes, of-of course, your majesty." She slapped herself mentally again. 'Do I have to stutter so much?!' "I-I will send word right away." 'There I go again.'
The queen smiled delightfully. Of course, Serena couldn't see it since her head was bowed and she was too afraid to look up. Still, Serena could sense the smile in her words. "Oh!" the queen exclaimed. "Thank you so much!"
Serena glanced up at the ecstatic queen. "Of course, your majesty. It would never be a problem."
"Thank you again, Serena."
Serena was once again surprised. She almost stumbled backward. The queen knew HER name! Her name! "You are quite welcome, your majesty."
The queen dismissed her and Serena stood up, her head still bowed. She turned around and a smile tugged at her lips. That's when she heard the queen say, "I can see why people think of you highly."
Serena's smile widened and sauntered out the door.
***
Serena skipped down the hallway, very happy. She was so happy that she started singing a song to herself.
'I wish I could ride on the shadows of clouds That drift across the hill; Over the meadow and out of sight They sweep so smooth and still. Over the daisy field they passed, And not a daisy stirred; They moved like chariots grand and slow,
But never a sound was heard.'
Serena continued to sing too loudly, not realizing that she had an audience.
***
Darien walked down the corridor towards the throne room where his mother had asked to see him. He rolled his eyes and thought, 'Probably about Lady Beryl. Oh, what joy.' He sighed and continued down the hall.
That was until he heard something. Someone was singing, and it was beautiful. Probably the most beautiful he's ever heard. His eyes widened as he stopped and listened.
'Over the daisy field they passed, And not a daisy stirred; They moved like chariots grand and slow, But never a sound was heard.'
Darien jogged down the hall and turned the corner only to see a certain angel singing her heart. His heart skipped a beat. She had an AMAZING voice! Then a thought came to him. Since his mother had just lost her musicians, Serena could sing for her instead! His heart skipped another beat. Maybe it was meant to be!
The prince followed her down the corridor and listened to her beautiful voice.
'I wish I could ride on the shadows of clouds, Could ride till, the journey done, I'd find myself at the end of the world, Where the earth and the sky are one.'
Darien then realized she was done her song and he snapped back out of the cloud. He clapped lightly and watched as she spun around quickly, her eyes wide as orbs.
He watched amused as she struggled to talk. "Y-you heard me?"
Darien nodded, smiling and saw her cheeks stain pink. "You have to sing for my mother," he suggested.
Serena's eyes widened even more and she shook her head. "I-I can't sing."
"I just heard you!" he replied. "You have an amazingly beautiful voice! I'm sure she would love to here you sing. It could be like a second job."
Darien watched as the angel bit her lip in deep thought. Then she finally answered. "I really don't know. I was only singing out of my joy. I don't perform. I never had. I'm sure she'll want someone with experience-"
Darien cut her off. "No, he just wants someone who is good. And you are better than good!" Darien sighed as he saw her doubtful look. "Ok. Listen. If I could ask you favor for the rest of my life, I would ask you to take up this job. Please, just try. If you don't like it, then you can quit. Please, just try it once," he pleaded.
Serena sighed, still looking doubtful. But then she finally gave in. "Alright, but only because I'm doing a favor for you. And don't expect me to do it more than once, 'cause I probably won't."
Darien's eyes brightened instantly. "Thank you! Now come on, you're coming down with me to my mother to sing for her so she can hear how wonderful you are." He grabbed her small hand, but immediately pulled away.
He stared at her and she stared back. 'What was that?' As he grabbed her hand, he felt a shock. He didn't know what it was, but it startled him. This surprised him, and it looked like Serena noticed. He laughed nervously and took her hand again, and was relieved that he didn't feel it again. He jogged down the hall to throne room, pulling her with him.
The guards saw him and opened the doors for the two to pass. Darien stopped running, but didn't let go of her hand. When his mother and father saw him, they smiled. The queen looked at Serena quizzically, but Darien gave her the look telling her that he'll explain everything.
Once they were in front of them, Darien let go of her hand and bowed, and then watched as Serena knelt down on one knee and bowed her head. He smiled at her, then turned back to his mother and father. "Mother, Father," he began. "You told me you wanted to see me, but before we talk, I wanted to tell you about this girl, Serena."
"I know who she is, Darien. I just talked to her not that long ago," his mother replied.
"Oh, alright." He cleared his throat. "Anyway, as I was saying." he paused and pulled Serena up onto her feet. She looked startled, but stood up anyway, yet she kept her head bowed. Darien continued. "I was walking down the corridor to come here when I heard Serena singing joyfully. I thought her singing was so beautiful, and I knew that you just lost your musicians, so I thought maybe she could sing for you instead of having music with no words."
The queen smiled delightedly then turned to Serena. "Serena, dear, why didn't you tell me that you could sing?"
Darien could tell that Serena was nervous, but he didn't say anything. Serena answered, "Well, I never thought I could sing well. I just sang for fun." Her voice came out sounding slightly dry, out of nervousness, no doubt, yet he still loved how she talked.
The queen smiled again. "Well, why don't you sing a little bit of a song, and then maybe you can sing for me again at a ball or party."
Serena let out a small, almost inaudible, squeak of surprise, but nodded her head. She hesitated to sing.
Queen Isabelle laughed lightly. "Go on. There is no need to be frightened." The king just smiled at Serena and nodded at her to go on and sing.
Serena's face flushed slightly, and Darien nudged her, signaling for her to sing. And then she started with her wonderful voice.
'I wish I could ride on the shadows of clouds
That drift across the hill; Over the meadow and out of sight They sweep so smooth and still.'
Darien listened to her beautiful voice, but then she stopped. He looked over at her and saw her looking up at the king and queen, yet still being respectful and bowing her head.
Darien's mother and father looked taken by her voice. The queen smiled eagerly. "Oh! I love that song! Go on, dear! Keep singing!"
Serena nodded and Darien turned his attention back to the singing angel.
'Over the daisy field they passed, And not a daisy stirred; They moved like chariots grand and slow, But never a sound was heard. I wish I could ride on the shadows of clouds, Could ride till, the journey done, I'd find myself at the end of the world, Where the earth and the sky are one.'
When Serena finished, the queen, king, and their son broke out in applause.
"Oh! You have a wonderful voice!" the queen exclaimed.
"Yes, very beautiful," the king agreed.
Darien nodded, while a smile tugged at his lips. "I agree very strongly."
"Oh, Serena! You must sing at one of our balls for us!"
Darien saw Serena's head shoot up at the queen, but saw that she realized her "rudeness." Of course, he knew she wasn't being rude, but he thought it was sweet. He smiled inwardly, yet he didn't need to because he was already smiling outwardly.
"Your majesty, I am very flattered that you think that I have a good voice," she replied, "but-"
"Oh! You must sing! Please say you will! I promise I will get someone to play the music for you!" the queen interrupted her.
The prince saw Serena blush more harshly. "Well," she croaked. "If you insist."
"Oh, thank you dear! And please say you will sing that song!"
Serena nodded.
"Thank you again! I knew you would do it! You are so sweet! Thank you!" Queen Isabelle smiled happily.
Serena smiled weakly and nodded again. "Thank you, your majesties, for giving me this. job."
"Anything for a sweet girl with a beautiful voice!" the queen replied delightedly.
Serena curtsied. "Thank you again, your majesties." With that, Darien watched as Serena left, slightly out of it. He chuckled lightly, then turned to his parents.
He cleared his throat. "You wanted to see me about something?"
The queen looked at her husband, then back to her son. "Yes, Darien. We." Darien watched her struggle to get the words out. She looked to her husband for help.
The king spoke up. "Your mother and I were talking, and we decided to let Lady Beryl move into the castle in a couple of years."
Darien jaw dropped. He felt like his jaw was on the floor. He was in great shock. Move in?! To the castle?! What were they getting at?! "What?!"
"Well," his mother said. "Your father thinks that she's a nice girl, too. And we thought it might help out your relationship with her-"
Darien cut it. "I don't want a relationship with her! I don't like her!"
"Darien!" His father was now on his feet. "You will not speak to us in that tone!"
Darien face was red from anger. "Yes, sir."
"Now, Lady Beryl WILL move into the castle in a couple of years, and you WILL be nice to her. Is that understood?" his father roared.
Darien nodded, his jaw tight and his fists clenched at his sides from frustration.
King Bryan sat back down in his throne. "You are dismissed," she said dejectedly.
Darien grunted and turned his back on them. He walked out of the door, extremely angered. Lady Beryl?! Moving in?! He'd have to do something about that. He had to think of a plan. Maybe he could suggest courting Serena. Maybe that would change their minds about letting Beryl move in, since they would know he fancied someone else.
Darien sighed and stomped down the hallway back to his room.
***
Serena burst into the laundry room, causing a stir amongst the women. The blonde didn't care, though. She was trying to find Molly.
Once Serena had spotted her, she dashed to her, almost knocking her down."
"Oy! Serena! What's wrong?" her friend asked concerned.
"Oh, Molly! There's nothing wrong," she replied. "It's just that..." She paused. "The queen wants me to sing at one of her balls!"
Molly screamed. "Are you serious?!"
"Yes!"
"Oh my gods, Serena!"
The two girls jumped up and down excitedly. Then Molly asked, "What are you going to sing?"
"'Cloud Shadows.' The queen loves that song, and so do I."
Molly squealed again. "Oh! I love that song too! I have to see you sing it!"
"Shh! Girls, people are going to come in here and yell at us! Keep it down!" a woman shushed them.
The two best friends quieted down, they smiled widely at each other. "Oh, what are you going to wear? We have to find you something!" Molly exclaimed.
"But... where?"
"I dunno. We have to go into town someday. And you're gonna have to let me pick out your dress."
Serena nodded. "Right, but maybe I should check with the queen on what I should wear."
Molly nodded and stated that would be a good idea.
"Oh! I can't wait!" Molly screeched.
"Yes, but I'm a little nervous..."
"Oh, don't worry about that," Molly replied as if it didn't matter. "I'll help you practice."
"You will? Thank you, Molly!" Serena exclaimed and leapt to her best friend and hugged her.
Molly smiled brightly and hugged her back. "No problem!"
***
Serena ran down the hall early the next morning to find Molly, once again. She swung open the oak door and, not meaning to, startled Molly.
"What's up? What's going on?" asked Molly.
Serena squealed with glee. "You will NOT believe this!"
"Serena, tell me! The suspense is KILLING me!" her friend urged on.
Serena squealed again. "The queen..." She paused, watching Molly's face, then continued, "told me that you and I could take a day off to find a dress for me! And she said that you could come to the ball and see me, since you're my best friend, and that you'd be picking out a gown, too!"
Molly screamed with delight! "Oh, my gods! I can't believe this!"
"But wait!" Serena stopped her. "That's not all! She gave me money to go and buy the dresses! She said that we didn't have to pay for them!"
By that time, both of the girls were screaming with happiness. Once they calmed themselves down, then got dressed in fairly decent clothes and set out to the town with a pocket full of gold coins.
They entered the center of town, smiling happily. There were some many people with different things to do. People buying pottery, some buying flowers, some buying food, and some buying clothes. Of course, that probably wasn't the only reason people were here. That's only what Serena saw. The center of town seemed to go on forever. She didn't remember that last time she was here.
Serena looked at Molly and they started discussing where they should go first. They decided to start at the beginning of the town and look dresses and accessories.
Serena pointed out a store called "Velvet" that had a beautiful green dress in the display window. She pulled Molly inside, demanding that she try it on.
She waited outside of a small room for Molly. When Molly came out she gasped. "Molly! That dress looks gorgeous on you!" Serena complimented.
Molly spun around, the dress twirling with her. It was a dark green velvet dress. It had a high "princess" waist embroidered in gold. The sleeves were long and clung to her small arms. The rest of the dress flowed beautifully with her figure. "You really think so, Serena?" Molly asked, a little doubtful.
"Yes! This is YOUR dress! We are marching up to the salesman and buying it RIGHT NOW," Serena insisted.
Molly smiled widely and went back into the small room. She returned a little while later and the two of them paid for the dress. The man handed them a sack to put the dress in, and the two girls thanked him. They sauntered out into the sunlight again, this time looking for a dress for Serena.
They visited various shops, but still hadn't found a dress for Serena. They took a short break to have lunch, then went back to looking around. In the mean time, they had found a necklace for Molly: a gold chain with a crystal teardrop charm.
By the time is was 2:00, Serena was about to give up. "I dunno, Molly. I mean, if I haven't found a dress by now, maybe I'm just not meant to find a dress."
"Aw, come on, Serena. We'll find one," Molly said encouragingly.
Serena smiled weakly as Molly pulled her into a shop called "Silver Moon." "I like the name of the store," she said and giggled lightly.
Molly smiled and pulled Serena over to the gowns department. Serena trudge next to her, staring in awe at all the gorgeous gowns.
Just then, a woman with fluffy dark brown hair walked up to them smiling. She obviously worked there. "Hello," she said, her voice coated with sugar. "May I help you?"
Serena watched as Molly took the opportunity to help her. "Yes," Molly replied. "My friend and I are looking for a dress for her." Molly pointed to Serena.
"Ah, yes. Let me help." The woman glided over to a rack of dresses, then turned and looked at Serena. "Do you know your size?"
"Er..." Serena stuttered. "Not really, sorry."
"No problem," the woman replied sweetly. "By the way, my name's Amanda, if you need anything else." (AN: Just for you, Mandy! ^_^) Amanda nodded, studying Serena, trying to find out her size. "Yes, I believe that you might be a 5."
Amanda walked over to the size 5 rack and turned around, studying Serena again. "Hmm..." she thought out loud. "A light blue, a silver, a sunlight yellow, a pink, hmm.... Any color would look good on you." She turned back to the gowns and picked out a bunch. "Try these on," Amanda instructed and pointed to a small room in the back, similar to the other store.
Serena took the gowns and headed over to the dressing room to try them on. The woman had picked out a light blue dress, a red dress, a yellow dress, a white dress, and a silver dress for her to try on.
She sighed, wishing it was easier than this. But, of course, it wasn't.
***
Darien muttered unhappily as he trudged through town with his best friend. His mother had made him pick up the dress she had ordered at "Silver Moon" again. But this time, he had brought Andrew along, which was a BIG mistake. All he was talking about was Jessica.
"...and her eyes! Her eyes are sooooo beautiful. I could just stare in them forever. Her hair! Her hair is so soft and shiny. I mean, everything about her is-"
"Andrew, just shut up about that girl, ok?" Darien interrupted him exasperatedly.
"Oh, SORRY, Mister I'm-Pissed-Off-Because-My-Life-Isn't-Going-As- Planned-And-The-Girl-I-Like-Is-Out-Of-Reach-And-The-Annoying-Lady-Beryl-Is- Coming-To-Live-At-The-Castle-In-A-Few-Years." Andrew rolled his eyes.
Darien sighed. "Well, I'm not Mister I-Try-And-Date-Every-Attractive- Girl-I-See-Even-If-I'm-Already-Dating-Another-Girl."
"Yeah, whatever," was Andrew's reply.
"Come on. That faster we pick up that dress, the faster we can get out of here," the prince said and pulled Andrew along.
***
Serena came out in the silver dress. She had tried on the others and neither of them appealed to her, even though Amanda and Molly like them. This one, however, seemed different. It had a thin transparent material with tiny silver sparkles in it over the silver material, making the whole dress seem to shine and sparkle. It had a tight bodice and waist, the same silver color under the transparent material. A medium-sized ribbon was wrapped around her waist (it, too, was silver and sparkly), and tied into a little bow in the back. All the fabric on the dress was made of silk, with an exception of the ribbon and transparent material, which was made of satin. The sleeves where short sleeved and it had a wide, oval neck, which would be good to wear a necklace to show off. She spun around twice, enjoying the feeling of it against her skin.
"Serena! That's the dress! That's the one you ARE going to get!" Molly exclaimed.
Serena smiled. "I was thinking the same thing."
Amanda walked up, slightly out of breath. "Sorry, I have another customer up at the front. Have you made a decision?"
Serena nodded and gesture with her hand to the dress she was wearing.
Amanda beamed. "Great choice. I'll take the ones you don't want and you can come up to the front when you are ready." With that, the woman took the other dresses and zoomed off.
Once Serena had taken off the dress and resumed to her old clothes, they made their way up to the front of the store to pay for the dress only to come face to face with the prince.
***
The prince stood at the front of the store, listening to Andrew ramble on about Lady Jessica again. The woman, who told the prince to address her by the name of Amanda, had gone to check on two other customers in the back of the store. He waited patiently until she finally came back, partly out of breath and holding 5 dresses in her arms.
"I'm sorry it took me so long, your lordship," she said and put the dresses down on a spare chair. She turned around and smiled lightly. "How may I help you?"
"My mother's dress, please?"
"Oh, yes, of course! One second, your lordship, if you will." The woman hurried into the side room of the store, closed off by a tattered curtain.
Darien sighed and waited. Once again, Andrew had started up again with his endless rambling. But, at that moment, a girl with long golden tresses strutted up to the front of the store, talking to another girl beside her. Darien's eyes widened and he smiled, realizing whom it was.
Darien saw Serena notice him. She smiled lightly, and only then did he realize that she was holding some silver material in her arms. "What's that you have?" Darien asked, teasingly.
"A-a dress for the next party the queen has," she replied, her head bowed slightly.
The prince laughed. "I told you, you don't have to bow your head at me." He laughed again.
Serena's head snapped up and she smiled. "Oh, right."
"Do you have any jewelry for you to wear with that dress?" he asked, wanting to buy her something.... anything.
By this time, he noticed Andrew had stopped yapping and was observing him and Serena very closely. Darien noticed that Andrew had realized this was the servant girl he had been talking about not that long ago.
"Well, no... not really," Serena began. "But I'm about to use all my money on this dress and-"
"I'll buy you something then!" Darien exclaimed. "You're gonna need a piece of jewelry with THAT dress."
Darien saw Serena hesitate, then nod her head. "I guess, if you insist."
"I do," Darien agreed. "I'll take you and your friend to the jeweler and you can each pick out a piece of jewelry."
Darien saw Serena's friend's eyes lighten. She nudged Serena, and Serena smiled, then she turned to Darien. "Uh... Prince, this is my best friend, Molly."
"Pleased to meet you, your highness." Molly bowed her head.
Darien laughed. "Since your Serena's best friend, you don't have to bow to me." Then he turned to Serena. "Please, call me Darien." Darien felt Andrew nudge him hard in the back. The prince rolled his eyes and pulled Andrew forward. "Serena, Molly, this is Andrew, my best friend and a pain in the butt."
Andrew punched Darien lightly and playfully in the arm, but Darien just laughed. "Andrew, this is Serena," he gestured to Serena. "And Molly," he gestured to Molly."
"Please to meet you, Serena, Molly."
"Pleased to meet you," the two girls chorused.
At that point, Amanda came out with a dark red dress. She put it nicely in a sack and handed it to Darien. "Thank you for shopping at 'Silver Moon.' Please come again."
Darien was amused by the woman's fake line. He chuckled lightly to himself and waited as Serena and Molly paid for the dress.
The woman handed Serena her sack and repeated the same line, then went back in the closed off room.
The prince, his best friend, and the two girls stepped out into the sunlight. Darien pointed across the street. "We'll go to that jeweler to get you girls something."
Darien walked across the street with Andrew, Serena, and Molly following him. They walked into the shop named "Angel Tears," for its diamonds looked like angels had cried and humans had captured their tears.
Darien smiled. He was going to be buying something for her, and then she'd always wear it, and then they'd fall madly in love with each other and live happily ever after.
Darien shook his head. She was a friend! Not a girlfriend. Why had he been thinking these thoughts? He did not know, but he had to rid his mind of them, before they started completely taking over his whole brain.
***
Serena couldn't believe this. Everywhere she went the prince seemed to be there. Why? Why did she always see him? And why was he being nice to her, a mere servant? It just didn't make any sense. But she followed along with it. It was nice having royalty being nice to her.
Not only was he being nice to her, he was buying her jewelry! Ok, not just her, but her and her best friend! And that was very hard to believe for some reason.
She gaped at the store. She'd never seen so much gold and silver and gemstones in her life. They were so beautiful.
"Pick whatever you like," she heard the prince say.
Serena eyes widened even more. Whatever she liked? She liked everything! Of course, she couldn't ask for that, so she had to decide on one.
Molly grabbed Serena's arm. "Come on, Serena! I'll help you pick out a necklace!" With that comment, Molly dragged Serena across the store, looking at the various pieces of jewelry. "Ooooh! Look at this one! No, this one! Wait! What about this one?"
Serena laughed. "I'd pick out a bracelet since you've already got a necklace."
Molly nodded thoughtfully. "Right," she replied, then hurried over to the bracelet section.
Serena smiled and shook her head, then continued to look around at the necklaces. She didn't realize it, but the prince was standing right next to her as she admired every single piece of jewelry.
"Found one, yet?" he asked, smiling.
"Nope. But, ya know, you don't have to do this."
"But I want to. I insist."
"You're being too nice to me. You're a prince, and I'm a servant. You didn't have to get me that singing job and you don't have to buy me anything. Besides, I didn't think royalty is suppose to talk to lesser-than- nobodies like me," Serena replied coldly.
"Whoa. Don't get all icy on me," Darien said, taken aback. "Look, don't EVER think that. You're not a "lesser-than-nobody." At least, in my eyes you aren't. You're a sweet, kind girl that doesn't deserve to be a servant. You deserve much more. And I'm nice to you because I like you."
"R-really?" Serena stuttered unbelievably.
"Of course. Now, pick out a necklace and I'll buy it for you."
Serena smiled happily. She jumped towards him and hugged him. To her surprise, he hugged her as well. She felt safe and warm in his arms. She didn't want to leave that comfort. But, of course, all good things must come to an end.
They pulled apart, and Darien helped Serena pick out a necklace. Serena gasped when she saw one. It had a tiny, delicate silver chain. On the chain rested a diamond crescent moon charm. It was the most beautiful thing she'd ever seen in her life. She stared in awe at it, until she realized that a salesman was taking it and walking over to the front with Darien. Serena scurried over to them.
Molly ran over as well, holding a gold bracelet. The prince took it, paid for the two items, then handed the small black velvet bags to their owners. "Here you go, ladies," the prince said formally.
Serena giggled as she took the bag and walked out of the store with them.
"I'm sure that necklace will look great with that dress you bought, which, by the way, may I see?" Darien asked, raising a thick, dark eyebrow.
Serena shook her head, smiling lightly and mischievously. "Nope. You gotta wait."
"Aww, come on, please?" the handsome prince asked, trying to use his charm to persuade her. But, to his despair, she resisted,
"Nope. I said you had to wait until the next ball," she scolded.
Darien let out a huff, crossed his arms, and made a pouty face like a child not getting what he wanted. Darien, however, could not hold this pose for long and broke out laughing.
Serena giggled with him, when Andrew comment, "Ya know, that look suits you."
Darien punched him playfully in the arm. "Ya know what Andrew? You.. you.." He paused, not being able to think of a suitable name for him.
Andrew laughed, then turned to Serena. "So, you're gonna be at the next ball, huh? Where do you live?"
"I'm. I'm a servant. in the castle," she replied meekly.
"YOU?! YOU'RE a servant?!" Andrew exclaimed unbelievably. To Darien's surprise, he hadn't noticed that she was the servant he was talking about.
Serena laughed nervously. "Y-yeah. Is that a problem, sir?"
Andrew shook his head. "No! No, of course not. You just don't look like one. You or your friend, Molly."
"Oh," she replied. "I guess I'll take that as a compliment."
Andrew nodded his head slowly. "I guess that is. I mean, I don't think anyone would WANT to look like a servant, and you're too pretty to be a servant."
Darien nudged Andrew harshly in the back, physically telling him not to steal his girl.
Serena blushed. "Th-thank you."
Andrew waved his hand in the air as if blowing it away. "No problem. Just telling the truth."
Darien cleared his throat. "So, Serena, what song are you going to be singing at the ball? That one you sang for my mother, or a different one?"
"You sing? Oh! You must have a wonderful voice!" Andrew praised.
Serena blushed. "Well, the prince and the queen think so."
"Oh! She does!" Molly cut in. "Serena, please sing something for us? Pleeeease!"
"Yeah, Serena," Andrew egged on. "I wanna hear you sing."
"Look, if she doesn't want to sing, then she doesn't have to!" the prince said and sighed.
"Thank you," Serena replied.
"Anyway, as I was saying before I was rudely interrupted," the prince shot and icy glare at his best friend. "What song will you sing?"
"Probably just that one I was singing earlier. Her majesty seemed to like it."
"Oh, yes. That's a beautiful song," the prince cooed. "And it sounds beautiful in your voice.
"What song is that?" Andrew asked curiously.
"Cloud Shadows," she replied meekly while a blush stained her cheeks.
"Ah. That's a song most girls would like," Andrew commented.
"Yeah, ok, whatever," Molly replied to that and rolled her eyes.
"Anyway," the prince said as they reached the castle gardens where the servant girls entered the town from. "I'm actually looking forward to another of my mother's balls, which is a first." He chuckled.
Serena smiled. "You don't like them, you mean?"
"Well, she throws them so continuously that they get quite boring. Plus she's always in my face about getting a girlfriend and what-not."
"Oh, that must stink," the golden-headed girl replied quietly. 'So, he must have a girlfriend, right?' Serena thought. 'With all the matchmaking that his mother does, he must obviously have found someone that he finds attractive. That's only what a man looks for in a girl, right?'
"It gets quite annoying, actually," the prince pointed out. "She finds girls that just aren't. just aren't for me," he finished.
"Oh! So you don't have a girlfriend?" Serena asked hopefully.
"Oh, no. Of course not. I'd never court a girl that my mother wants me to."
"Oh. Well, that's good, I guess," Serena said, feeling much relieved. Serena turned around to Molly and said to her, "Molly, you can go back. I'll be there in a second."
Molly nodded and headed back to the servants' quarters while Darien told the same thing to his friend. Once their best friends were out of sight, they turned to each other.
"Well, I just wanted to say thank you so much for buying me this necklace. It's beautiful!" Serena said happily and leapt into his arms for a hug.
Serena felt Darien hug her back tight. She took a deep breath in, memorizing his smell. 'Mmm.' she though. 'Roses and chocolate.'
When they pulled away, Serena was very disappointed having to lose that sense of security around, but also happy to see him smiling.
"I had a very fun day with you, Serena," the prince said, still smiling.
Serena smiled back brightly. "And I with you. I'm very glad I got to see you again. And I must say I am looking forward to singing at the ball, my prince."
"Darien," he said, correcting her. "And I will be looking forward to seeing you there, too, in that dress which I'm sure will make you look even more beautiful than you already are." With that, he flashed her one of his dazzling smiles. Then he took her hand in his and bowed, brushing his lips lightly across her knuckles.
Serena blushed harshly and watched at the prince straitened himself up and turn on his heel, walking back to the castle.
Was the prince flirting with her? Did he really like her? She sure hoped so. She smiled dreamily and headed back to the servants' quarters.
***
Woo hoo! Chapter 6 is done! *dances around* Hee hee! This is the longest chapter ever! In Microsoft Word, it is. *counts* 23 pages! Whoa! A lot more than I expected to write. ^_^ Well, look out for chapter 7! That chapter is gonna be based on the ball, and let's see what is gonna happen there. I myself dunno yet. ^_^ Well, let's see how things turn out. Thanks to all my loyal readers! ^_^
xoxo Sere
