Title: The Swan Princess
Summery: Serenity is the princess from the moon, and Endymion is the prince from Earth. The kings and queens of each kingdom desperately want the two children to marry when they grow up, so every summer Serenity is sent down to Earth to spend quality time with Endymion. They hate each other at first. But when Serenity finally grows up, Endymion sees her in a different light. Endymion's jealous, power-hungry brother, Alex, turns to the dark arts in hope that he can make Serenity become his wife so he can be king, by putting her under a spell. It's up to Endymion to find her and save her from her enchantment.
Characters:
The Moon Kingdom and Court-
King Leodegrance- King of the Moon Kingdom, born of the royal family of the Sun
Queen Serenity- Queen of the Moon Kingdom, born of the royal family of the Moon
Princess Serenity- also known as Serena to close friends, daughter of the King and Queen of the Moon Kingdom and future ruler and holder of the Imperium Silver Crystal
Princess Mina- Serenity's cousin from the planet Venus (one year older than Serenity)
Princess Amy- Serenity's friend and princess of Mercury (one year older than Serenity)
Princess Lita- Serenity's friend and princess of Jupiter (one year older than Serenity)
Princess Raye- Serenity's friend and princess of Mars and Prince Endymion's cousin (one year older than Serenity)
Earth Kingdom and Court-
King Gereint- King of Earth and High King of all the other provinces and smaller kingdoms, born from the royal family of Mars
Queen Arianna- Queen of Earth and High Queen of the other provinces and smaller kingdoms, born from the royal family of Earth
Prince Endymion- also known as Darien to close friends, son of the High King and Queen of Earth, first in line for the throne
Prince Alexander- also known as Alex to close friends, son of the High King and Queen of Earth, second in line for the throne
Princess Marietta- also known as Marie to a very exclusive branch of nobles, daughter of the High King and Queen of Earth, third in line for the throne
Malachite- head of the royal guard and friend of Prince Endymion
Zoycite- part of the royal guard and friend of Prince Endymion
Nephlite- part of the royal guard and friend of Prince Endymion
Jedite- part of the royal guard and friend of Prince Endymion
Disclaimer: I own neither Sailor Moon nor The Swan Princess.
A\N: This is a PG story, there will be nothing more than kissing in my writing, so I am sorry to some people if this disappoints them, but I don't write graphic scenes. And this will mostly follow the plot line of the Swan Princess, so expect no huge changes from the plot until the end.
Chapter 7: Enchantment
"Hello, dear," Tracy exclaimed as soon as Serena stepped from the portal. Serena smiled and hugged Tracy. Tracy looked over Serena. "My, Serena, you have grown into a beautiful young lady!"
"Thank you," Serena said as she blushed. She looked around at the bare chamber. "Where is everyone? I thought they were going to be here."
"Well, the princess is staying at the southern palace currently, Prince Alex is up in his chambers working on his lessons, the king and queen are in a meeting with your Father, and Prince Endymion is with his friends finishing up some business in the town down the road," Tracy explained. Serena nodded her head careful not to look to downcast at the thought of not seeing Darien until later flashed through her mind. "But you are supposed to meet the royals for dinner at sundown."
"That's nice," Serena said. She picked up her hand bag and started out the door as Tracy led the way to her chambers.
"Oh, it's a tad bit sad that you are all grown up," Tracy frowned.
"And why is that?" Serena asked.
"You are to be married soon and then I won't see you again for a while," Tracy sighed. "I remember when you first came here."
"And what do you remember?" Serena asked laughing.
"I remember thinking you were the happiest girl on this planet," Tracy answered. "And the best thing that you did was teach our Prince Endymion his place." Tracy and Serena giggled at the memories of Endymion and his friends and the "war". "Now you both are all grown up."
"I hope he hasn't forgotten me," Serena whispered to herself as she stared out at the beautiful clear sky. Tracy overheard her.
"He hasn't forgotten, dear," Tracy remarked. She grinned. "Though he has been acting funny since that ball the princess held three years ago."
Serena gasped and a warm blush flickered across her cheeks. Tracy didn't notice.
"Is he seeing anyone currently?" Serena asked cautiously, trying to thrust aside the thoughts of that kiss they had shared so long ago.
"No, he has been very busy with trying to learn to rule the kingdom," Tracy stopped at Serena's door. Serena ran a hand along the painted wood of the door. She smiled, glad that Endymion wasn't seeing anyone.
"I had better get going," Tracy said. She left the room. "See you later."
~~~~~***~~~~~
Sun Down
Serena had dressed her best. She was in a long white dress with gold etchings on the bodice. Golden sandals laced her feet. A matching pearl anklet and bracelet were put on. Around her neck, she wore the crystal swan that she had worn every day since she had gotten it. She wore her hair down in shining waves of liquid gold and silver.
As the last of the sun's rays touched the sky, Serena made her way down to the dining hall. Serena grasped the sides of her dress as she had done that time way back when she had first came here. She felt more nervous now than that time before. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath as she came to the entry hall before the dining room.
Beyond the doors, music and laughter rang. Serena could almost hear Darien's laughter. Everyone was waiting for her. She could feel the moments slipping by bringing her nearer and nearer to when she was going to see Darien again. All this waiting and now she had cold feet! Serena shook her head.
What am I? Woman or mouse? Serena thought as she brushed back a curl of hair. Serena, you are a princess, and princesses don't get scared. You are the most confident person around. Now get your butt inside that room.
Serena opened her eyes and nodded to the guards standing by the doors. The bowed and pulled open the doors. Serena walked in with her head held high.
Long tables were set up and a large amount of people sat there drinking and eating the entrees. The laughter and chatter died as Serena walked in. All of the people just stared at her. Serena glanced nervously around but kept walking to the high king's table.
At the king's table sat King Gereint, Queen Arianna, Prince Alex, other nobles, and then Serena's eyes fell on Prince Endymion. He was staring at her with his fork half way to his mouth full of food. His mouth was open, gaping at her. What she didn't notice was the look Prince Alex was giving her, which was one that said "The time has come".
"Serenity, is that really you?" King Gereint asked, his eyebrows raised. Serena nodded.
"Oh, Serena, you look so beautiful! You are ready to be queen!" Queen Arianna cried and ran to hug Serena. Serena accepted the hug and returned the embrace. "Doesn't she look lovely, Endymion?"
Serena watched as Endymion simply stared at her. She was scared at what he was thinking.
"Come sit between the queen and me and tell us how you are! You have grown up so!" King Gereint boomed. Serena wished everyone would stop telling her that she was so beautiful and that she was so grown up. Didn't they care about what was on the inside of a person, instead of only beauty on the outside? The people continued eating but some came up later to personally greet Serena and welcome her back to Earth.
Serena walked by Endymion to get to her seat. She smirked and bent down to his level, where he was still gaping at her. To onlookers it looked like she was simply greeting to him.
"You better close your mouth or the flies will find a home there," Serena whispered to him. Her heart fluttered a little but more as the scent of his shampoo drifted through the air. She hit the bottom of his chin and his mouth clicked together as his head snapped back. He glared at her for a second and then returned to his eating.
Serena sat down between the king and queen and ate a quick dinner. Prince Endymion some how snuck out of the room without her knowing and when dinner ended, she had no choice but to go back to her room and go to sleep.
~~~~~***~~~~~
Endymion's Version of Dinner
Darien had been sitting there laughing and drinking merrily when the doors opened. He looked up thinking it was just another courtier. Light seemed to fill the open doors as the setting sun outlined a figure in gold. Darien gasped, along with everyone else in the dining room.
"Who is it?" Darien whispered to Alex who was sitting next to him. Alex just shrugged and smiled and went back to watching the doors. The sun faded out as the doors closed behind the figure. A beautiful lady began to walk silently up the aisle to the king's table. Sparkles of gold left over from the sun still shone around her. Her hair fell in gold and silver waves to the middle of her back. White lilies had been woven into her hair and the dress accentuated her figure.
The lady continued walking all the way up to the king's table. Darien eyes widened.
"It can't be," Darien whispered. "That is not Serena."
"You would be surprised at how much a person can grow up, brother," Alex whispered back to him. "Serena has become a lady."
Darien watched Serena as she stopped in front of their table. His fork was still halfway to his mouth from when he realized it was Serena. He gaped at her not hearing what was going on until she was beside him.
Her smile made Darien's heart pound. She hit his chin and his jaws clicked. He glared at her starting to say something but her smile made him turn around and start eating again. He heard her walk gracefully behind him and sit between his parents.
Darien shook his head. He put his head between his hands. His heart was pounding really hard. Darien frowned. He didn't know what he was feeling, for he had never been in love before.
He quickly glanced at Serena. Her aura was radiating peace and tranquility as she laughed and chatted with his parents. He stood up and left out the servants' entrance.
Endymion's Bed Room
"Did you see how many men stared at her?" Malachite asked and whistled. "Dang, she grew up."
"Our little Serena," Jedite sniffed jokingly. "What a knock out."
"She really has changed," Nephrite commented.
"I wonder if she would consider me courting her," Zoycite wondered. The other three looked at him. He grinned. "Only joking, my love is back on the Moon."
"Would you guys just shut up?" Darien yelled from outside on the balcony. He turned and went in. "We hate Serena right? She is no different than before. Just stop talking about her!"
"Oh, I see how it is," Zoycite said.
"You are in love with her!" Jedite exclaimed.
"I am not!" Darien shouted. "She is just a bratty, whiny . . ."
"Lovely, sweet, beautiful young woman," Malachite finished after Darien trailed off.
"Even so, I don't like her!" Darien said. "I don't!"
"No," Nephrite cut in. "You love her."
Darien stared at the men for a long time. He slowly turned towards his balcony again.
"I need to be alone," Darien whispered and went back out on the balcony. "Go to sleep."
The guys left the room smiling at how their best friend and master could be so much in denial. Darien sat down on the bench out there and stared at the Moon, holding a small painting of Serena when she was 14 in one hand.
"I do love Serena," he whispered to the stars, staring at the painting.
~~~~~***~~~~~
Next Day
~~~~~***~~~~~
Earth Palace
Serena screamed as she skidded around a corner and ran into the wall. She got up and kept running occasionally yelling a greeting to a person passing by. Then, as she skidded around another corner, she bumped into some one. She looked up and smiled. "Just the person I was looking for."
"And why is that?" Jedite raised an eyebrow and steadied the pretty princess as she staggered a little from running into him.
"I need your help with something," Serena said. She brushed off some dirt from her pale pink dress. It was layered in the back and fell in waves around her feet. Her hair was pulled back into an elegant bun.
"And would this something have to do with a certain prince we both know," Jedite paused and smiled, "and love?"
Serena blushed. She punched Jedite in the arm. He grinned and ruffled her hair. She growled and shoved his hand away.
"Fine! Yes, it has to do with Endymion," Serena cried as Jedite began to tickle her.
"And what, pray tell, do I have to do?" Jedite asked.
"You just have to do one little thing," Serena answered and began to tell Jedite the plan.
~~~~~***~~~~~
Endymion's Bed Chamber
"Top of the morning to you, Darien," Jedite greeted Endymion as he sauntered. Endymion groaned and rolled over in his bed. "What? Still in bed at this hour?"
"Jedite, go away," Darien growled. He kicked Jedite as Jedite tried to yank the covers off Darien. Jedite leapt away and managed to wrestle the covers off of Darien. Darien shot out of bed and grabbed his robe. "All right, you have me out of bed. What do you want?"
"I want you to realize your feelings and act on them," Jedite answered. He put the covers neatly back onto the bed.
"I can't just sort all my feelings out in a moment!" Darien yelled. He began to put on clothes. "And even if I did know how I feel about her, it's not like she feels the same way. She ran from me that night! She hasn't said one word about the whole thing ever! And then she comes waltzing back into my life more beautiful and greater than ever, and you expect me to marry her all in 24 hours?!"
"All I expect you to do is tell Serena," Jedite said calmly. He sauntered back out of the room. "Why don't you go walk in your garden? It might make you feel better. And the reason why you don't know anything about the way Serena feels about you is maybe that you haven't given her the chance to tell you."
Darien watched as Jedite's head disappeared down the hall. He sighed. Maybe a walk in the gardens might help him feel better and figure out a way to tell Serena everything. He got dressed and walked down the stairs to his private garden.
~~~~~***~~~~~
"Good job, Jedite," Serena whispered to herself as she watched Darien come down the steps into the garden. Up front, there were long rows of roses. Then wildflowers and herbs grew in beds in the middle. A grassy path led to a huge oval fountain with a statue of Cupid flying with his arrows. Water spouted from Cupid's arrow in his bow. Serena giggled softly as she gently tugged the camouflaged rope that was, at one end, tied to a small tree and Serena held the other. She was hidden behind a huge flowering bush beside the fountain. "Now just come back here, Darien."
Darien paced back and forth between the roses thinking and muttering to himself. He paused and glanced thoughtfully at the fountain at the back of his private, secluded garden. He took out a small gold coin.
"It can't hurt to make a wish," Darien said to himself and walked over to the fountain.
"Yes," Serena whispered. As soon as Darien got close to the fountain, she pulled up and the rope. Darien tripped over it and tried to catch his footing. He stepped on a wet rock on the fountain wall and fell into the thigh deep water.
"Ah!" he screamed as he hit the water. Serena burst out laughing at the sight of Darien's wet head as he came up from underwater. Darien swiveled around glaring at the bush she was hiding behind. "Who's there?"
"It is only me," Serena answered between giggles as she got up and came around the bush. Darien blushed and glared at her as she walked over to the edge of the fountain. "I got you."
"So you did. I am surprised I fell for this. After many long years of experience, I fell for this dumb trap," Darien said as he plucked a soggy leaf from his hair.
"It's not dumb!" Serena argued. Darien smirked. Serena rolled her eyes.
"Aren't you going to play the role of a lady and help me out?" Darien pouted.
"Fine," Serena said. She reached her hand out for Darien's. Darien's smile grew. Serena tried to pull back, but Darien grabbed Serena's hand and yanked her into the water with him. "Ah! Darien!"
KER-SPLASH! Serena was drenched from head to toe. She stood up in the water and gasped. Darien laughed so hard tears began to form in his eyes. Serena had leaves covering her head and she looked like a monster. She growled at Darien and leapt at him. She tackled him into the water. He came up coughing up water. She spit her tongue out at him and splashed water at his head. He frowned and then smiled.
"Oh, no," Serena begged and made a mad dash out of the water. Darien tackled her from behind and sent a wave of water crashing out of the fountain. After a brief tussle, Serena ended up sitting proudly on top of Darien as he lay under the water. "Look who's on top now."
Suddenly, Darien threw Serena off of him. She went flying and screaming across the fountain and cannon-balled into the water on the other side. She stood up sopping wet and turned and glared at Darien who was smirking. She hit the water hard and sent a huge wave of water completely covering Darien. He spat water out at her which she easily dodged. She made a face at him. He smiled and ran after her in the water. She gasped and bolted the other way. Serena ran around the statue the opposite way Darien had come for her. She stopped and turned to see where Darien was.
"Darien?" Serena asked worriedly. There was no sign of him. She looked around hurriedly. "Darien?"
All of a sudden, Darien popped out of the water behind her and grabbed her. Serena screamed. Darien carried her over his shoulder and walked around acting like he had just won a championship. Serena pounded on his back and Darien threw her over his shoulder and into the water. She returned to the surface gasping for air, her hair all matted around her face, glittering like shiny gold. She grabbed Darien who had turned to face her and tried to stand up in the deeper water at the center of fountain.
"Ah!" she yelled as she slipped on a wet stone and almost fell backwards into the rippling water. Darien reached over and caught her, his face directly above hers as she leaned against the rock the statue sat on. "Darien. . ."
Before she could finish, Darien's lips were on hers, kissing her. She kissed him back fervently. The fireworks that had exploded last time Darien had kissed her became nuclear bombs bursting this time.
Serena pulled away as the kiss slowed. Her eyelashes fluttered. Darien toyed with a strand of her hair.
"Serena, I-"
"I love you, Darien," Serena interrupted him, staring deeply into his eyes.
"You do?" Darien whispered. Serena laughed and nodded.
"I really do," Serena said.
"Good, because I love you too," Darien said pulling Serena into his arms and hugging her. "I love you so much! Let's get married, Serena. We will live happily ever after, my beautiful princess."
Darien's last words made Serena go silent for a minute. Darien looked questioningly at her.
"What is it?" he asked.
"Darien, can I ask you a question that you promise to answer truthfully?" Serena said looking deeper into his eyes. He smiled.
"Sure," he answered. "Ask away."
"Why do you love me, Darien?" Serena whispered. She frowned slightly. "What is it about me that makes you love me?"
Darien stepped back, startled at the question. His smile turned thoughtful. He stared at Serena.
"I love you, because of you," Darien said.
"But, why?" Serena asked persistently.
"Does it really matter?" Darien replied. Serena gasped. "Oh, Serena, I didn't mean it that way."
"Then tell me why you love me," Serena stated.
"I love you because you're . . .," Darien faltered. Serena nodded, encouraging him to go on. "Because you're beautiful?"
"That's your answer?" Serena asked.
"Er, yes?" Darien looked confused.
"Darien, I can't marry you," Serena said looking crestfallen.
"Why?!" Darien shouted.
"Because you don't know the meaning of love," Serena replied. She turned away, tears glistening down her cheeks. "Until, you do, I will await you on the Moon."
"Serena!" Darien tried to come after her, but Serena ran off and out of the garden. Darien grew angry and slapped the water in frustration. "Why?"
~~~~~***~~~~~
Queen Arianna's Sitting Room
"He said what?" the queen yelled. Serena nodded. "Oh, my dear, I am so sorry. I will certainly have a talk with him right away. A good spanking is what he needs."
"I can't be in love or marry some one, if they only love me for my beauty," Serena whispered. Queen Arianna patted Serena's shoulder. "That's why I am leaving to go back to the Moon tomorrow."
"So soon?" the queen asked.
"Yes, I have duties there that need to be done," Serena replied. She got up from the couch where she and the queen sat. "Don't tell Endymion I came to you."
"All right," the queen said. "I shall notify the king that you are leaving and have the portal ready for you tomorrow morning."
Serena thanked the queen and walked out of the room.
"Don't worry, dear," Queen Arianna whispered after Serena. "My son will come to his senses soon enough."
Little did she know, but there was a shadow lurking outside the room. The figure gleefully rubbed his hands together after hearing what happened.
"Finally, my time has come," the figure whispered and disappeared into thin air.
~~~~~***~~~~~
Earth Palace - Hall
"Where is she? I have looked all over for her, yet she eludes me!" Darien yelled in frustration. He slammed his hand against a stone wall. "Serena!"
"No need to yell, brother," a voice came from behind Darien. Darien swiveled around and saw Alex standing there, his green eyes glowing mysteriously.
"What do you want, Alex?" Darien sighed.
"To help you of course," Alex answered and smiled.
I seriously doubt that, Darien thought. When has my brother ever helped me?
"I ran into Serena a little while ago," Alex said. He shook his head. Darien's attention was caught.
"And?" Darien's eyes widened.
"She wasn't too happy with you," Alex replied. "She said she never wanted to see you again."
Darien's shoulders sagged and he looked sad. He closed his eyes as one tear fell down his cheek.
"I am going to go for a ride out to the old remnants of the old fort in the Pearl Mountains. I need to think things over. Don't expect me back to late tomorrow," Darien said and turned and left. "I love her so much, but now she hates me. I really blew it."
"But, you made it easy for me," Alex muttered as soon as Darien had left the hall, his eyes flickering red.
~~~~~***~~~~~
Next Day
~~~~~***~~~~~
Darien's Private Garden
I can't believe Darien, Serena thought. She was sitting out in Darien's private garden, waiting for him to show so she could talk with him before she went back to the Moon. Nobody who expects to marry me will only love me for my beauty. I just wish he would come to me and say something to make everything right.
Serena looked up and put on a smile.
He will come back to me! Serena thought. I know it. It is only a matter of time.
She stood up and decided to go into the palace to find Darien. She rounded a corner behind a tree and ran into some one. She looked up hopeful that it was Darien. Green eyes met her blue ones and she sighed.
"Alex, what a pleasure," Serena murmured to him. She moved to walk by. Alex stopped her.
"Princess, is there something wrong?" Alex asked. Serena fiddled with her crystal swan, feeling uneasy around him. She shook her head and smiled.
"I am fine, but I am late for my leaving to Earth," Serena replied and once again moved to go around him. Alex's arm lashed out and pushed her against the tree. Serena gasped. "What are you thinking?"
"It's a pity you aren't going to make it to the transporter room." Alex sneered. His green eyes flashed red.
"What?" Serena gasped.
"I am sorry Serena, but I have to do this."
Serena moved her mouth to scream, but Alex covered it with his hand.
"Scream, and I will make sure you never do again," Alex whispered. Serena bit back the scream. She forced his hand off her mouth and glared at him. He smirked.
"What do you want?" Serena began to get scared.
"You."
"No!" Serena yelled. Alex rolled his eyes.
"I told you no screaming."
"You are going to kill me!"
"No, more like kidnap you." Alex looked amused by this little showdown.
"Why?"
"Because I have stayed at the side lines for too long, and now I am going to become a king and rule the entire universe," Alex paused. "Well, with your help."
"I will never marry you!" Serena said. She kicked him and tried to run. Alex grabbed her and through her to the ground, her crystal necklace breaking free and falling to his feet.
"Never is an awfully long time," Alex whispered. He picked up the swan and held it up. "You will marry me, eventually. And until then. . . "
"If you kidnap me, then the Earth and the Moon will come after you!" Serena cried. She rubbed her sore elbow.
"No, you are wrong. For who would suspect a prince?" Alex grinned evilly. He glanced at the swan necklace. "And until you decide to marry me, I will simply keep you where no one can ever find you, and where you can't find anyone."
"No! They will still figure it out! And you will die!" Serena shouted. She got up. Alex put his hand out and the swan began to spin in the air, glowing a deep ruby red. Serena cried out and tried to run. Alex said a few magical words and a red beam shot out at Serena. It engulfed her and she shimmered red.
"Darien," Serena whispered and then she blacked out at the sight of Alex looming over her.
~~~~~***~~~~~
A\N: Mwahahahaha! A cliffhanger! I am so evil. Eep! I'm sorry, but I wanted to get this chapter out to you as quickly as possibly. Alex did come in! Yay! Well, that's not good, but he did finally show up after I promised a while ago. Don't worry, Sere\Endy fans, for this will turn out that way! Also, I put in a line from a movie that is in theatres, or recently was. Can you guess what movie and what line it is? And the last trick was the fountain part, which I got from one of my reviewers. Thank you! And to everyone else, I thank you for your lovely reviews! They are wonderful and inspire me! Keep on reviewing!
Next Chapter Preview:
~ Serena is under an enchantment. ~
~ Serena meets some new friends. ~
~ Darien finds out that she has been kidnapped. ~
~~~~~***~~~~~ I just watched The Swan Princess last night and I don't know what all will happen just yet in the next chapter, so it might take a little longer to come out. It all depends on how much I write on the three things under Next Chapter Preview. Until then, I hope you enjoyed this chapter, and the next one will be out as soon as I can write it all up!
~~~~~***~~~~~
Summery: Serenity is the princess from the moon, and Endymion is the prince from Earth. The kings and queens of each kingdom desperately want the two children to marry when they grow up, so every summer Serenity is sent down to Earth to spend quality time with Endymion. They hate each other at first. But when Serenity finally grows up, Endymion sees her in a different light. Endymion's jealous, power-hungry brother, Alex, turns to the dark arts in hope that he can make Serenity become his wife so he can be king, by putting her under a spell. It's up to Endymion to find her and save her from her enchantment.
Characters:
The Moon Kingdom and Court-
King Leodegrance- King of the Moon Kingdom, born of the royal family of the Sun
Queen Serenity- Queen of the Moon Kingdom, born of the royal family of the Moon
Princess Serenity- also known as Serena to close friends, daughter of the King and Queen of the Moon Kingdom and future ruler and holder of the Imperium Silver Crystal
Princess Mina- Serenity's cousin from the planet Venus (one year older than Serenity)
Princess Amy- Serenity's friend and princess of Mercury (one year older than Serenity)
Princess Lita- Serenity's friend and princess of Jupiter (one year older than Serenity)
Princess Raye- Serenity's friend and princess of Mars and Prince Endymion's cousin (one year older than Serenity)
Earth Kingdom and Court-
King Gereint- King of Earth and High King of all the other provinces and smaller kingdoms, born from the royal family of Mars
Queen Arianna- Queen of Earth and High Queen of the other provinces and smaller kingdoms, born from the royal family of Earth
Prince Endymion- also known as Darien to close friends, son of the High King and Queen of Earth, first in line for the throne
Prince Alexander- also known as Alex to close friends, son of the High King and Queen of Earth, second in line for the throne
Princess Marietta- also known as Marie to a very exclusive branch of nobles, daughter of the High King and Queen of Earth, third in line for the throne
Malachite- head of the royal guard and friend of Prince Endymion
Zoycite- part of the royal guard and friend of Prince Endymion
Nephlite- part of the royal guard and friend of Prince Endymion
Jedite- part of the royal guard and friend of Prince Endymion
Disclaimer: I own neither Sailor Moon nor The Swan Princess.
A\N: This is a PG story, there will be nothing more than kissing in my writing, so I am sorry to some people if this disappoints them, but I don't write graphic scenes. And this will mostly follow the plot line of the Swan Princess, so expect no huge changes from the plot until the end.
Chapter 7: Enchantment
"Hello, dear," Tracy exclaimed as soon as Serena stepped from the portal. Serena smiled and hugged Tracy. Tracy looked over Serena. "My, Serena, you have grown into a beautiful young lady!"
"Thank you," Serena said as she blushed. She looked around at the bare chamber. "Where is everyone? I thought they were going to be here."
"Well, the princess is staying at the southern palace currently, Prince Alex is up in his chambers working on his lessons, the king and queen are in a meeting with your Father, and Prince Endymion is with his friends finishing up some business in the town down the road," Tracy explained. Serena nodded her head careful not to look to downcast at the thought of not seeing Darien until later flashed through her mind. "But you are supposed to meet the royals for dinner at sundown."
"That's nice," Serena said. She picked up her hand bag and started out the door as Tracy led the way to her chambers.
"Oh, it's a tad bit sad that you are all grown up," Tracy frowned.
"And why is that?" Serena asked.
"You are to be married soon and then I won't see you again for a while," Tracy sighed. "I remember when you first came here."
"And what do you remember?" Serena asked laughing.
"I remember thinking you were the happiest girl on this planet," Tracy answered. "And the best thing that you did was teach our Prince Endymion his place." Tracy and Serena giggled at the memories of Endymion and his friends and the "war". "Now you both are all grown up."
"I hope he hasn't forgotten me," Serena whispered to herself as she stared out at the beautiful clear sky. Tracy overheard her.
"He hasn't forgotten, dear," Tracy remarked. She grinned. "Though he has been acting funny since that ball the princess held three years ago."
Serena gasped and a warm blush flickered across her cheeks. Tracy didn't notice.
"Is he seeing anyone currently?" Serena asked cautiously, trying to thrust aside the thoughts of that kiss they had shared so long ago.
"No, he has been very busy with trying to learn to rule the kingdom," Tracy stopped at Serena's door. Serena ran a hand along the painted wood of the door. She smiled, glad that Endymion wasn't seeing anyone.
"I had better get going," Tracy said. She left the room. "See you later."
~~~~~***~~~~~
Sun Down
Serena had dressed her best. She was in a long white dress with gold etchings on the bodice. Golden sandals laced her feet. A matching pearl anklet and bracelet were put on. Around her neck, she wore the crystal swan that she had worn every day since she had gotten it. She wore her hair down in shining waves of liquid gold and silver.
As the last of the sun's rays touched the sky, Serena made her way down to the dining hall. Serena grasped the sides of her dress as she had done that time way back when she had first came here. She felt more nervous now than that time before. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath as she came to the entry hall before the dining room.
Beyond the doors, music and laughter rang. Serena could almost hear Darien's laughter. Everyone was waiting for her. She could feel the moments slipping by bringing her nearer and nearer to when she was going to see Darien again. All this waiting and now she had cold feet! Serena shook her head.
What am I? Woman or mouse? Serena thought as she brushed back a curl of hair. Serena, you are a princess, and princesses don't get scared. You are the most confident person around. Now get your butt inside that room.
Serena opened her eyes and nodded to the guards standing by the doors. The bowed and pulled open the doors. Serena walked in with her head held high.
Long tables were set up and a large amount of people sat there drinking and eating the entrees. The laughter and chatter died as Serena walked in. All of the people just stared at her. Serena glanced nervously around but kept walking to the high king's table.
At the king's table sat King Gereint, Queen Arianna, Prince Alex, other nobles, and then Serena's eyes fell on Prince Endymion. He was staring at her with his fork half way to his mouth full of food. His mouth was open, gaping at her. What she didn't notice was the look Prince Alex was giving her, which was one that said "The time has come".
"Serenity, is that really you?" King Gereint asked, his eyebrows raised. Serena nodded.
"Oh, Serena, you look so beautiful! You are ready to be queen!" Queen Arianna cried and ran to hug Serena. Serena accepted the hug and returned the embrace. "Doesn't she look lovely, Endymion?"
Serena watched as Endymion simply stared at her. She was scared at what he was thinking.
"Come sit between the queen and me and tell us how you are! You have grown up so!" King Gereint boomed. Serena wished everyone would stop telling her that she was so beautiful and that she was so grown up. Didn't they care about what was on the inside of a person, instead of only beauty on the outside? The people continued eating but some came up later to personally greet Serena and welcome her back to Earth.
Serena walked by Endymion to get to her seat. She smirked and bent down to his level, where he was still gaping at her. To onlookers it looked like she was simply greeting to him.
"You better close your mouth or the flies will find a home there," Serena whispered to him. Her heart fluttered a little but more as the scent of his shampoo drifted through the air. She hit the bottom of his chin and his mouth clicked together as his head snapped back. He glared at her for a second and then returned to his eating.
Serena sat down between the king and queen and ate a quick dinner. Prince Endymion some how snuck out of the room without her knowing and when dinner ended, she had no choice but to go back to her room and go to sleep.
~~~~~***~~~~~
Endymion's Version of Dinner
Darien had been sitting there laughing and drinking merrily when the doors opened. He looked up thinking it was just another courtier. Light seemed to fill the open doors as the setting sun outlined a figure in gold. Darien gasped, along with everyone else in the dining room.
"Who is it?" Darien whispered to Alex who was sitting next to him. Alex just shrugged and smiled and went back to watching the doors. The sun faded out as the doors closed behind the figure. A beautiful lady began to walk silently up the aisle to the king's table. Sparkles of gold left over from the sun still shone around her. Her hair fell in gold and silver waves to the middle of her back. White lilies had been woven into her hair and the dress accentuated her figure.
The lady continued walking all the way up to the king's table. Darien eyes widened.
"It can't be," Darien whispered. "That is not Serena."
"You would be surprised at how much a person can grow up, brother," Alex whispered back to him. "Serena has become a lady."
Darien watched Serena as she stopped in front of their table. His fork was still halfway to his mouth from when he realized it was Serena. He gaped at her not hearing what was going on until she was beside him.
Her smile made Darien's heart pound. She hit his chin and his jaws clicked. He glared at her starting to say something but her smile made him turn around and start eating again. He heard her walk gracefully behind him and sit between his parents.
Darien shook his head. He put his head between his hands. His heart was pounding really hard. Darien frowned. He didn't know what he was feeling, for he had never been in love before.
He quickly glanced at Serena. Her aura was radiating peace and tranquility as she laughed and chatted with his parents. He stood up and left out the servants' entrance.
Endymion's Bed Room
"Did you see how many men stared at her?" Malachite asked and whistled. "Dang, she grew up."
"Our little Serena," Jedite sniffed jokingly. "What a knock out."
"She really has changed," Nephrite commented.
"I wonder if she would consider me courting her," Zoycite wondered. The other three looked at him. He grinned. "Only joking, my love is back on the Moon."
"Would you guys just shut up?" Darien yelled from outside on the balcony. He turned and went in. "We hate Serena right? She is no different than before. Just stop talking about her!"
"Oh, I see how it is," Zoycite said.
"You are in love with her!" Jedite exclaimed.
"I am not!" Darien shouted. "She is just a bratty, whiny . . ."
"Lovely, sweet, beautiful young woman," Malachite finished after Darien trailed off.
"Even so, I don't like her!" Darien said. "I don't!"
"No," Nephrite cut in. "You love her."
Darien stared at the men for a long time. He slowly turned towards his balcony again.
"I need to be alone," Darien whispered and went back out on the balcony. "Go to sleep."
The guys left the room smiling at how their best friend and master could be so much in denial. Darien sat down on the bench out there and stared at the Moon, holding a small painting of Serena when she was 14 in one hand.
"I do love Serena," he whispered to the stars, staring at the painting.
~~~~~***~~~~~
Next Day
~~~~~***~~~~~
Earth Palace
Serena screamed as she skidded around a corner and ran into the wall. She got up and kept running occasionally yelling a greeting to a person passing by. Then, as she skidded around another corner, she bumped into some one. She looked up and smiled. "Just the person I was looking for."
"And why is that?" Jedite raised an eyebrow and steadied the pretty princess as she staggered a little from running into him.
"I need your help with something," Serena said. She brushed off some dirt from her pale pink dress. It was layered in the back and fell in waves around her feet. Her hair was pulled back into an elegant bun.
"And would this something have to do with a certain prince we both know," Jedite paused and smiled, "and love?"
Serena blushed. She punched Jedite in the arm. He grinned and ruffled her hair. She growled and shoved his hand away.
"Fine! Yes, it has to do with Endymion," Serena cried as Jedite began to tickle her.
"And what, pray tell, do I have to do?" Jedite asked.
"You just have to do one little thing," Serena answered and began to tell Jedite the plan.
~~~~~***~~~~~
Endymion's Bed Chamber
"Top of the morning to you, Darien," Jedite greeted Endymion as he sauntered. Endymion groaned and rolled over in his bed. "What? Still in bed at this hour?"
"Jedite, go away," Darien growled. He kicked Jedite as Jedite tried to yank the covers off Darien. Jedite leapt away and managed to wrestle the covers off of Darien. Darien shot out of bed and grabbed his robe. "All right, you have me out of bed. What do you want?"
"I want you to realize your feelings and act on them," Jedite answered. He put the covers neatly back onto the bed.
"I can't just sort all my feelings out in a moment!" Darien yelled. He began to put on clothes. "And even if I did know how I feel about her, it's not like she feels the same way. She ran from me that night! She hasn't said one word about the whole thing ever! And then she comes waltzing back into my life more beautiful and greater than ever, and you expect me to marry her all in 24 hours?!"
"All I expect you to do is tell Serena," Jedite said calmly. He sauntered back out of the room. "Why don't you go walk in your garden? It might make you feel better. And the reason why you don't know anything about the way Serena feels about you is maybe that you haven't given her the chance to tell you."
Darien watched as Jedite's head disappeared down the hall. He sighed. Maybe a walk in the gardens might help him feel better and figure out a way to tell Serena everything. He got dressed and walked down the stairs to his private garden.
~~~~~***~~~~~
"Good job, Jedite," Serena whispered to herself as she watched Darien come down the steps into the garden. Up front, there were long rows of roses. Then wildflowers and herbs grew in beds in the middle. A grassy path led to a huge oval fountain with a statue of Cupid flying with his arrows. Water spouted from Cupid's arrow in his bow. Serena giggled softly as she gently tugged the camouflaged rope that was, at one end, tied to a small tree and Serena held the other. She was hidden behind a huge flowering bush beside the fountain. "Now just come back here, Darien."
Darien paced back and forth between the roses thinking and muttering to himself. He paused and glanced thoughtfully at the fountain at the back of his private, secluded garden. He took out a small gold coin.
"It can't hurt to make a wish," Darien said to himself and walked over to the fountain.
"Yes," Serena whispered. As soon as Darien got close to the fountain, she pulled up and the rope. Darien tripped over it and tried to catch his footing. He stepped on a wet rock on the fountain wall and fell into the thigh deep water.
"Ah!" he screamed as he hit the water. Serena burst out laughing at the sight of Darien's wet head as he came up from underwater. Darien swiveled around glaring at the bush she was hiding behind. "Who's there?"
"It is only me," Serena answered between giggles as she got up and came around the bush. Darien blushed and glared at her as she walked over to the edge of the fountain. "I got you."
"So you did. I am surprised I fell for this. After many long years of experience, I fell for this dumb trap," Darien said as he plucked a soggy leaf from his hair.
"It's not dumb!" Serena argued. Darien smirked. Serena rolled her eyes.
"Aren't you going to play the role of a lady and help me out?" Darien pouted.
"Fine," Serena said. She reached her hand out for Darien's. Darien's smile grew. Serena tried to pull back, but Darien grabbed Serena's hand and yanked her into the water with him. "Ah! Darien!"
KER-SPLASH! Serena was drenched from head to toe. She stood up in the water and gasped. Darien laughed so hard tears began to form in his eyes. Serena had leaves covering her head and she looked like a monster. She growled at Darien and leapt at him. She tackled him into the water. He came up coughing up water. She spit her tongue out at him and splashed water at his head. He frowned and then smiled.
"Oh, no," Serena begged and made a mad dash out of the water. Darien tackled her from behind and sent a wave of water crashing out of the fountain. After a brief tussle, Serena ended up sitting proudly on top of Darien as he lay under the water. "Look who's on top now."
Suddenly, Darien threw Serena off of him. She went flying and screaming across the fountain and cannon-balled into the water on the other side. She stood up sopping wet and turned and glared at Darien who was smirking. She hit the water hard and sent a huge wave of water completely covering Darien. He spat water out at her which she easily dodged. She made a face at him. He smiled and ran after her in the water. She gasped and bolted the other way. Serena ran around the statue the opposite way Darien had come for her. She stopped and turned to see where Darien was.
"Darien?" Serena asked worriedly. There was no sign of him. She looked around hurriedly. "Darien?"
All of a sudden, Darien popped out of the water behind her and grabbed her. Serena screamed. Darien carried her over his shoulder and walked around acting like he had just won a championship. Serena pounded on his back and Darien threw her over his shoulder and into the water. She returned to the surface gasping for air, her hair all matted around her face, glittering like shiny gold. She grabbed Darien who had turned to face her and tried to stand up in the deeper water at the center of fountain.
"Ah!" she yelled as she slipped on a wet stone and almost fell backwards into the rippling water. Darien reached over and caught her, his face directly above hers as she leaned against the rock the statue sat on. "Darien. . ."
Before she could finish, Darien's lips were on hers, kissing her. She kissed him back fervently. The fireworks that had exploded last time Darien had kissed her became nuclear bombs bursting this time.
Serena pulled away as the kiss slowed. Her eyelashes fluttered. Darien toyed with a strand of her hair.
"Serena, I-"
"I love you, Darien," Serena interrupted him, staring deeply into his eyes.
"You do?" Darien whispered. Serena laughed and nodded.
"I really do," Serena said.
"Good, because I love you too," Darien said pulling Serena into his arms and hugging her. "I love you so much! Let's get married, Serena. We will live happily ever after, my beautiful princess."
Darien's last words made Serena go silent for a minute. Darien looked questioningly at her.
"What is it?" he asked.
"Darien, can I ask you a question that you promise to answer truthfully?" Serena said looking deeper into his eyes. He smiled.
"Sure," he answered. "Ask away."
"Why do you love me, Darien?" Serena whispered. She frowned slightly. "What is it about me that makes you love me?"
Darien stepped back, startled at the question. His smile turned thoughtful. He stared at Serena.
"I love you, because of you," Darien said.
"But, why?" Serena asked persistently.
"Does it really matter?" Darien replied. Serena gasped. "Oh, Serena, I didn't mean it that way."
"Then tell me why you love me," Serena stated.
"I love you because you're . . .," Darien faltered. Serena nodded, encouraging him to go on. "Because you're beautiful?"
"That's your answer?" Serena asked.
"Er, yes?" Darien looked confused.
"Darien, I can't marry you," Serena said looking crestfallen.
"Why?!" Darien shouted.
"Because you don't know the meaning of love," Serena replied. She turned away, tears glistening down her cheeks. "Until, you do, I will await you on the Moon."
"Serena!" Darien tried to come after her, but Serena ran off and out of the garden. Darien grew angry and slapped the water in frustration. "Why?"
~~~~~***~~~~~
Queen Arianna's Sitting Room
"He said what?" the queen yelled. Serena nodded. "Oh, my dear, I am so sorry. I will certainly have a talk with him right away. A good spanking is what he needs."
"I can't be in love or marry some one, if they only love me for my beauty," Serena whispered. Queen Arianna patted Serena's shoulder. "That's why I am leaving to go back to the Moon tomorrow."
"So soon?" the queen asked.
"Yes, I have duties there that need to be done," Serena replied. She got up from the couch where she and the queen sat. "Don't tell Endymion I came to you."
"All right," the queen said. "I shall notify the king that you are leaving and have the portal ready for you tomorrow morning."
Serena thanked the queen and walked out of the room.
"Don't worry, dear," Queen Arianna whispered after Serena. "My son will come to his senses soon enough."
Little did she know, but there was a shadow lurking outside the room. The figure gleefully rubbed his hands together after hearing what happened.
"Finally, my time has come," the figure whispered and disappeared into thin air.
~~~~~***~~~~~
Earth Palace - Hall
"Where is she? I have looked all over for her, yet she eludes me!" Darien yelled in frustration. He slammed his hand against a stone wall. "Serena!"
"No need to yell, brother," a voice came from behind Darien. Darien swiveled around and saw Alex standing there, his green eyes glowing mysteriously.
"What do you want, Alex?" Darien sighed.
"To help you of course," Alex answered and smiled.
I seriously doubt that, Darien thought. When has my brother ever helped me?
"I ran into Serena a little while ago," Alex said. He shook his head. Darien's attention was caught.
"And?" Darien's eyes widened.
"She wasn't too happy with you," Alex replied. "She said she never wanted to see you again."
Darien's shoulders sagged and he looked sad. He closed his eyes as one tear fell down his cheek.
"I am going to go for a ride out to the old remnants of the old fort in the Pearl Mountains. I need to think things over. Don't expect me back to late tomorrow," Darien said and turned and left. "I love her so much, but now she hates me. I really blew it."
"But, you made it easy for me," Alex muttered as soon as Darien had left the hall, his eyes flickering red.
~~~~~***~~~~~
Next Day
~~~~~***~~~~~
Darien's Private Garden
I can't believe Darien, Serena thought. She was sitting out in Darien's private garden, waiting for him to show so she could talk with him before she went back to the Moon. Nobody who expects to marry me will only love me for my beauty. I just wish he would come to me and say something to make everything right.
Serena looked up and put on a smile.
He will come back to me! Serena thought. I know it. It is only a matter of time.
She stood up and decided to go into the palace to find Darien. She rounded a corner behind a tree and ran into some one. She looked up hopeful that it was Darien. Green eyes met her blue ones and she sighed.
"Alex, what a pleasure," Serena murmured to him. She moved to walk by. Alex stopped her.
"Princess, is there something wrong?" Alex asked. Serena fiddled with her crystal swan, feeling uneasy around him. She shook her head and smiled.
"I am fine, but I am late for my leaving to Earth," Serena replied and once again moved to go around him. Alex's arm lashed out and pushed her against the tree. Serena gasped. "What are you thinking?"
"It's a pity you aren't going to make it to the transporter room." Alex sneered. His green eyes flashed red.
"What?" Serena gasped.
"I am sorry Serena, but I have to do this."
Serena moved her mouth to scream, but Alex covered it with his hand.
"Scream, and I will make sure you never do again," Alex whispered. Serena bit back the scream. She forced his hand off her mouth and glared at him. He smirked.
"What do you want?" Serena began to get scared.
"You."
"No!" Serena yelled. Alex rolled his eyes.
"I told you no screaming."
"You are going to kill me!"
"No, more like kidnap you." Alex looked amused by this little showdown.
"Why?"
"Because I have stayed at the side lines for too long, and now I am going to become a king and rule the entire universe," Alex paused. "Well, with your help."
"I will never marry you!" Serena said. She kicked him and tried to run. Alex grabbed her and through her to the ground, her crystal necklace breaking free and falling to his feet.
"Never is an awfully long time," Alex whispered. He picked up the swan and held it up. "You will marry me, eventually. And until then. . . "
"If you kidnap me, then the Earth and the Moon will come after you!" Serena cried. She rubbed her sore elbow.
"No, you are wrong. For who would suspect a prince?" Alex grinned evilly. He glanced at the swan necklace. "And until you decide to marry me, I will simply keep you where no one can ever find you, and where you can't find anyone."
"No! They will still figure it out! And you will die!" Serena shouted. She got up. Alex put his hand out and the swan began to spin in the air, glowing a deep ruby red. Serena cried out and tried to run. Alex said a few magical words and a red beam shot out at Serena. It engulfed her and she shimmered red.
"Darien," Serena whispered and then she blacked out at the sight of Alex looming over her.
~~~~~***~~~~~
A\N: Mwahahahaha! A cliffhanger! I am so evil. Eep! I'm sorry, but I wanted to get this chapter out to you as quickly as possibly. Alex did come in! Yay! Well, that's not good, but he did finally show up after I promised a while ago. Don't worry, Sere\Endy fans, for this will turn out that way! Also, I put in a line from a movie that is in theatres, or recently was. Can you guess what movie and what line it is? And the last trick was the fountain part, which I got from one of my reviewers. Thank you! And to everyone else, I thank you for your lovely reviews! They are wonderful and inspire me! Keep on reviewing!
Next Chapter Preview:
~ Serena is under an enchantment. ~
~ Serena meets some new friends. ~
~ Darien finds out that she has been kidnapped. ~
~~~~~***~~~~~ I just watched The Swan Princess last night and I don't know what all will happen just yet in the next chapter, so it might take a little longer to come out. It all depends on how much I write on the three things under Next Chapter Preview. Until then, I hope you enjoyed this chapter, and the next one will be out as soon as I can write it all up!
~~~~~***~~~~~
