Title: Chronicles of the Moon: Life of the Late Queen Serenity
By: semper_fi
Rated: TVPG
Email: Goodnight_Spoon@hotmail.com
Disclaimer: Sailor Moon, not mine. Story, mine.
Thanks to everyone who's written to me, and to those who haven't but still read. Thanks to those who have written a critique and to my mom, who proof-reads all this for me. Jan 23rd was her birthday, so I'd like to dedicate this chapter to her. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM!!!!!
~
In a world filled with pain Where's the love for which we pray? What's goin on When our children can't play Homeless can't eat There's gotta be a better way
~~~
Serenity lay in the bed next to Raphael, and thought that her first time had been nothing like the facts of her schoolbooks, the giggled tales of maidens or the songs of bards. Instead she likened it to a suffocating groping, sharp pain, and then incessant rubbing that left her feeling spent, cheated, and on the brink of tears. Serenity rolled out of bed and padded to the wardrobe, where she quickly tied a robe around herself, and then wandered into the adjacent washroom. She drew herself a bath from the water faucet-Mercury's latest invention, stolen by Mars and shipped to them as a bribe of sorts-and let the water run as hot as possible before slipping off her robe and climbing into the tub to soak and wash away the dirty feeling that had not left her since the moment that Raphael touched her. He had not been cruel, and had taken his time with her, but there was no love in his embrace, and Serenity felt as despoiled and wanton as any courtesan. The water had scalded her skin at first, but she had now become used to it and could endure the fiery temperature. She reached for a scrub on the side of the tub and washed herself violently, scrubbing until her skin was red and sore. Finally, heady and overheated with shame, Serenity pulled herself from the tub and dried herself off, then re-wrapped herself in the robe and walked back into the wedding chambers. Raphael opened an eye sleepily as she reappeared, then closed it and burrowed further under the covers. At that moment Serenity wanted nothing more than to sneak back into her own chambers and find rest in her own bed, but that was not possible and an unacceptable gesture. So, hugging the robe tighter to herself, Serenity curled up on a chair by the balcony and tried to find sleep, if only for a moment.
The next day Serenity sat stiffly at her vanity as Annie brushed out her long white hair. Neither had spoken yet that day, and Serenity kept on replaying the events of last night, although her mind shied away from her encounter with Raphael. He had woken this morning to see her sleeping in the chair, then dressed and left to breakfast. Where he was now, she did not know. Or care to know, Serenity thought bitterly, and wished that the voice would offer her advice, although she had not heard it since last night in her father's study, and it had remained stubbornly silent to all of her attempts of conversation. "Princess?" Annie ventured gently, genuinely worried for the girl. Serenity started at the sound of Annie's voice, then forced herself to reply calmly, "Yes, Annie?" "I know 'tis not my place." "Annie," Serenity began, "You know that I wish you to speak freely in my company." "Thank you, princess." The older woman took a breath, "I was wondering as to your meeting with Le last night. At the risk of sounding presumptuous, when Marie disappeared, and then you followed, I did not take it as a good sign." Serenity sighed. "You're right in guessing that it did not go well," swallowing her pride, Serenity recounted everything to Annie, leaving out names and places but covering the gist if it. When she had finished, Annie was shaking her head slowly. "How do you plan to meet.them, today, princess?" Annie asked. Although Serenity had not mentioned where it was that they were to meet, she had hinted that it was within the city limits. "I do not plan to meet them today at all," Serenity replied brusquely. "Perhaps tomorrow, but I will not go scampering back like some overly eager child. As for when I do go to meet them, I shall use the excuse of my Appaloosa stallion and say that I am merely returning him, which is partway true." Annie looked distressed, "Princess.would not it be easier for you royal parents to suggest that you turn over the horse and the name of his owner to a trusted servant, and then he deliver the animal back to the rightful owner?" Serenity's face fell. "You think that they'll want that?" "Likely so." "Then I'll just have to sneak out!" Serenity cried indignantly. But Annie was shaking her head slowly. "Princess," she started, "I have it on very good authority-" her son, who was a royal guard "-That orders have been issued to the guards not to allow you freedom to leave the palace grounds." Serenity could feel her face flushing with rage and embarrassment. "On whose order?" "The King's," Annie replied with quiet solemnity. Serenity clenched her fists, then unclenched them. Slowly, a plan was forming in her mind. Rising, she began gathering her hair into loops on either side of her head. "Gather my stylus, ink and writing parchments, please. My purple ink," she added as an afterthought, fastening her hair with peach ribbons, which brought out the color in her cheeks and the embroidered roses on her gown. As Annie ran to do as she had bid, Serenity cackled to herself. They have not outsmarted me yet! She thought jubilantly, overly proud of her plan, which was quite obviously sketchy to everyone but herself. Thinking herself very sly, Serenity waited until Annie had given her the requested materials before saying, "Now please fetch me a long cloak with a large hood, and be quick about it." By the time Annie had returned, carrying three cloaks, Serenity had finished both of her notes. "Please deliver this to my royal mother at once, and wait for her reply," she ordered, handing a note to Annie. While Annie was off delivering Serenity's message, the Crown-Princess held up the first robe. It was long and white and lined with chinchilla fur, but Serenity tossed it aside. Too extravagant, she decided, and then held up the second. It was overly large, had a hood, and was charcoal gray. Without viewing the last cloak, Serenity decided on this one, and, rolling in up in a wad, shoved it beneath her bed. Her note had said that she was not feeling well and wished to be excused from breakfast and relieved from the feasting tonight, although she promised to make an appearance for a short while. But this note was only the prelude, she knew, and was grinning when Annie reentered her chambers a few moments later. Wordlessly, the old woman handed the Queen's replying letter to Serenity, and the princess snatched it up and read it immediately.
I am most distressed to hear of your condition and hope that you are feeling better soon. You have been excused from breakfast and most of your duties today, as asked. I will see you at the ball tonight.
High Queen S.
That part was hastily scratched out, and printed darker beneath it was simply, Your mother
Those few words were enough to cloud Serenity's eyes over with tears, but she knew not why. Deciding that she was being preposterous, Serenity smiled brightly at Annie and said, "I believe that I shall embroider a great deal today. Care to join me?"
That night Serenity put too much powder on her face, to appear as though she were trying to cover a sickness, and didn't bother to rearrange her hair, which was still in its loop-style. Standing up straight, shoulders back, stomach in, chin up, she made her entrance into the ballroom, and all fell silent. Curtsying to her royal parents, in-laws and new husband, Serenity reveled in the freeness of movement that her new hairstyle provided. She could actually move around without the fear of stepping on her hair, which usually dragged the floor, but now only brushed against it. "Care to dance?" Raphael asked, and took her arm before Serenity could decline. Spinning her onto the dance floor, he managed to maneuver her away from her parents, so that by the time the dance was over he was leading her onto the balcony and away from the other revelers. "I have a chill," Serenity claimed, pulling her arm out of Raphael's grasp and attempting to rejoin her guests. "I would imagine so, what with the way you have your hair up," Raphael drawled, and something in his voice made Serenity turn around. "Whatever point you've been attempting to make, princess, you've either made it in abundance or failed miserably, but I cannot decide which. Perhaps you will help me by answering a few questions that have been plaguing my mind." Serenity had a sinking feeling that she knew what those questions were, but there was no polite way for her to avoid them. "Yes?" she asked cautiously. "Where were you on the night of your Coming of Age feast, and then a few nights later? Where were you last night?" when she opened her mouth to reply Raphael cut her off with, "And please do not repeat that story of being into your cups and such. Tipsy you may have been, but more on the euphoria of the moment; you were most definitely not foxed." "How dare you interrogate me?" Serenity asked. "You have just added to my headache, Prince Raphael.and besides all of that, 'twas no tale I told last night! What reason have I to lie?" And as she whirled away, leaving him on the balcony alone, Raphael dared to smile crookedly and say aloud, "That, my dear, is what I intend to find out."
Serenity walked up to her mother and said in a woeful voice, "Oh, Mother, I do feel terrible," she cast a glare in Raphael's direction, where he was sitting at the royal table, speaking with a duke. "I have the most wretched headache." Obviously hearing this, Raphael tipped his glass to her, smiling amiably. "Do you think you could withstand another few hours?" her father asked, but the queen was already shaking her head. "You'd best retire to your chambers at once, Serenity, before it worsens. Rest will do you wonders; now go, and send a messenger to me in the morning." Serenity nodded, and retreated from the ballroom without bidding her husband a goodnight.
The next day Serenity staid in her bed for most of the morning, and waited until it was almost time for the midday meal before dispersing Annie with a message to be delivered to her royal mother. Annie was to make haste and then wait for a reply, but it seemed like hours to Serenity before Annie bustled back into her chambers. "Well?" Serenity asked expectantly, and Annie handed her a folded letter.
It grieves and worries me to hear that you feel no better today, and although I would like to have you examined I will honor your request for a day of quiet and rest. No one will disturb you, and you have been excused from all activities. If your condition worsens any you must contact me at once, and you will at that time be submitted to a healer. As for the spotted stallion, the guards have been informed to wait for your servant, although it worries me a great deal that you would trust this girl with your own white steed.
Regardless and with concern, Mother
Serenity smiled a bit at this one. It was one of the most tender, nurturing words that had ever passed between her and her royal mother, and it distressed her that it came about because of a lie that she had concocted to escape the palace. "Princess," Annie looked hesitant to speak, but then continued, "Are you sure that want to go through with this? 'Tis a most ambitious plan, and clever, indeed, but not one what's fit for royalty." "That I know," Serenity replied, "And my mind is well made up." She paused, then, "My cloak, please." Annie pulled the charcoal cloak out from beneath Serenity's bed, and Serenity threw back the covers quickly, springing to the floor and glancing into the mirror. The gown that she wore today was much like all her others in the sense that it was white, but this one had blue-gray accents to it, and, that being the case, Serenity had tied up her white tresses with blue- gray ribbons. This gown was also a great deal plainer than the others because she had stayed up most of the night pulling the diamonds and sapphires from it and replacing them with plain embroidery. She was still quite obviously privileged, but to her eyes she seemed quite tame and poor in the exquisite gown. Serenity ceased admiring herself in the mirror, and turned to Annie. "Have you my scroll, Annie?" Annie nodded solemnly, handing the rolled parchment to the princess. They stood there a moment, looking into each other's eyes-though it was forbidden for servants to do so-and then Serenity smiled. "I'm off, Annie." "Aye." "Wish me luck?' Serenity coaxed. "Luck," Annie said simply, and as Serenity hurried from the room without a backward glance, "Gods know you'll need it."
Serenity made her way to the stables and reveled in the pleasure of being ignored. No one paused in their duties to bow or curtsy, and, were it not for her thick black cloak, she would be virtually anonymous. This time the stablemaster did not come out and greet her personally, and it was only after a few minutes of standing and waiting that a stable boy noticed her. "Are you lost?" he asked. "No," Serenity said after a moment, unused to his casual bluntness. "I wish for m.the Crown-Princess Serenity's white horse to be readied for me at once, and for her spotted stallion to readied as well. And I wish for a rope, with which to tie the stallion to the mare." The stable by looked incredulous. "By who's order?" Serenity bit off a cruel reply, remembering that he did not know who she was. "By the princess's." she reached into a pocket sewn into her cloak, and pulled out the scroll, which she had written up the day before. The stable boy took the scroll, noticing Serenity's own seal on the parchment, and handed it back to Serenity, because he knew not how to read. "Good enough," he said, then, "Wait here." Within twenty minutes he returned, leading both horses. He had tied a rope to the Appaloosa's bridal hoop, and then tied that to the back of the gelding's saddle. "Thank you," Serenity said, and waited for him to help her to mount. When he made no move to do so, Serenity bit her bottom lip and reminded herself of who she was pretending to be; a servant. Lifting her left leg as high as it would go, Serenity tried to get it through the stirrups. They were out of her reach, and Serenity loathed the idea of rushing the gelding and slithering onto his back again, as she had done the day after her Coming of Age feast. With this in mind, Serenity did a little hop, in the hopes of reaching the stirrup. She did not, and hopped again, pretending that she did not see the stable boy staring at her. "Would you like some help?" he asked at last, and Serenity thought that for a boy of about twelve, he did not catch on well. "Yes," she replied, and waited for him to lift her on. He did not. Instead, the boy hunched over a bit and laced his fingers together, so that his hands were forming a makeshift step. "Here," he said, when Serenity did not move, "Just put yer left foot there and I'll give ya a boost." Serenity looked from his face to his cupped hands, and dread spiraled through her. The very thought of being helped aboard a horse in such an ignoble way rankled, but Serenity saw no way around it. Swallowing her pride, the princess placed one small foot into the stableboy's hands, and nearly lost her balance as he hoisted her up. Quickly arranging herself on the horse, Serenity waited for him to bid her a farewell, but he was already halfway down the stable, and not looking back. Fine, Serenity thought, and then, to the horse, "Well, hurry now!" And off they went. Serenity marveled at how alive the palace suddenly seemed. No one shied from her presence, and everyone laughed openly. The gelding was in a lively mood, and they made good time. Serenity steered her mount toward the closest set of gates; they were not the main palace gates, but the side ones, which were used by servants. Serenity pulled her hood low over her face as they came up to the gates and a guard headed toward her. "May I inquire as to the nature of your outing, miss?" Wordlessly, Serenity reached into her cloak and handed him the scroll, then sat in agitated nervousness as he read it, frightened that he might see through her ploy. But he did not. "Thank you, miss." The guard handed her back the scroll. Serenity barely took the time to readjust the scroll beneath the folds of her cloak before she was urging her mount into a gallop, heading toward the city. She felt elated. I made it, Her mind kept on screaming, over and over again. I truly made it! The Appaloosa snorted, and Serenity laughed aloud. Her hood fell back a bit, and a light breeze tickled her face. Serenity laughed again, and soon she could see the city, a mass of spires in the distance. As she got closer, music and laughter reached her ears, accompanied by the sweet smell of cinnamon rolls and candied fruits. The city gates had been thrown wide open, and no guards were stationed at them. Serenity took this as a good sign, a very good sign indeed, and the Appaloosa, smelling foodstuffs, overtook the gelding and snorted in contempt when Serenity would not hasten after him. The day was hot, too hot to be wearing the cloak, and Serenity shrugged the hood off completely, and then the whole thing. She had been wearing it only so that she would not be recognized while leaving the palace, and now she wanted to enjoy the day and the weather, which she never got to appreciate from her secluded life in the palace. Serenity dismounted and untied the Appaloosa, so that she could lead both horses by the reins. He made no protest, but she continued to watch his eyes, ever wary should the sly light come back into them as it had the other night. She meandered through the laughing throngs of people, watching for Mea or Nicolas, but saw neither. Minutes turned into an hour, and Serenity began to grow impatient. Right when she planned on leaving, a gypsy boy danced up to her, flanked by three other children, all barefooted and merry. They clasped her hands and twirled, leading her to a large red and purple tent. The flaps were not drawn, and Serenity felt a chill pass through her. The children shoved her, and Serenity had no time to react before she was thrown through the curtains and into the dimly lit tent, where she landed, reins still clenched in white-knuckled fists, on her hands and knees. "Well, I see that you have held up your end of the bargain," came a voice, and Serenity stiffened without intending to. She looked up and saw Mea sitting on a blanket, his hunched back all the more pronounced by his Indian-style pose. Next to him sat a woman who appeared to be in her early twenties. High cheekbones were pronounced to the extent of looking feral, such was her thinness. Thin and tall. Her hair was fiery red and curled, falling down her back and pooling on the floor like liquid flame, longer even than Serenity's. It was her eyes, however, that caught Serenity's attention. They were lavender, as were her own, and the similarity was striking to the point of being shocking. Embarrassed by her lack of poise, Serenity scrambled to her feet quickly, and realized that she had dragged the horses in through the flaps. The Appaloosa whickered gaily and craned his neck toward the red-haired woman, while the gelding, true to his training, flicked his ears in Serenity's direction, alert to her slightest command. "Excuse me?" she ventured, trying to appear calm and in control. She smoothed her dress out self-consciously, attempting to conceal her trembling hands. "Our bargain," Mea repeated, and gestured toward the Appaloosa, who was rolling his eyes crazily and tossing his head. "You have reappeared, and with the Jupiterian stallion." "Indeed," Serenity replied, a bit affronted at being hauled into the tent in such an undignified fashion and having her honesty openly questioned and commented upon. She felt unbalanced, and was used to at least twenty minutes of pleasantries before diving straight to business. Very well, Serenity thought. I can play his game. "This is a lovely." she trailed off a moment, quite deliberately, ".Tent," she finished primly. "And your henchmen," she made a vague gesture to indicate the children, "Appear well fed and clothed," she let the implication set in before asking innocently, "Where is my Crystal?" She was rewarded as the woman's eyes widened and Mea's nostrils flared. Tit for tat, Mea thought to himself, then smiled at Serenity obligingly, dipping a hand into his pocket and pulling out the Crystal. He placed it on the blanket, not quite halfway between him and Serenity; more toward himself. Serenity smiled, and sat across from them without bothering to reclaim what was hers. Mea silently applauded this action, although his face remained blank. "The children will take the horses," Mea continued, breaking the silence. "When we have finished here you may reclaim your mount." Serenity nodded once. "First," Mea paused as the gypsy boy poked his head into the tent and Serenity handed over the reins, "I believe that introductions are in order." When Serenity said nothing, he granted her that and gestured to the redhead. "This is Beryl." Serenity inclined her head, never taking her eyes from Beryl's own. "And you are?" he prodded. Serenity tore her eyes from Beryl and met Mea's dark gaze. "Call me what you will, within reason." She replied, having suddenly decided that he need not know her name. Mea frowned. Luna, the Crystal whispered. And, "Luna," Beryl said. "Very well," Mea said. "Luna." Serenity shivered. It was the Crystal. It was the Crystal who had been speaking to her, and Beryl had heard, of this she was sure. "Now," Mea said, cutting off Serenity's thoughts. "We can begin." He looked at Serenity keenly. "You are not a part of this yet, not by far. You were permitted thus far because we cannot afford to let you out of our sight, do you understand?" he did not wait for Serenity to nod, but continued on, "You will have to prove your intentions, which will then be evaluated." His eyes bored into her own. "I do not believe that you have any cavalry. I believe that you are in this by yourself, and that you are a liability that should be taken care of as swiftly as possible. Unfortunately, because there is still that slight chance that you are telling the truth, we shall have to endure all this fuss. If at the end we can find no use for you, there shall be a dirty bit of work for a certain guard who shall not mind at all-are you following me?" "I believe I am," Serenity replied, and she was. "Good." Mea leaned back, regarding her solemnly. "We should like to see you in action, as this appears to be what you seek. You shall plan something to benefit our cause and carry it off. I shall accompany you in your task, as shall Beryl, and it shall be evaluated. You shall be given this one chance only, and it must be carried out today." Serenity nearly choked. "Today?" she repeated. "Today," Mea affirmed. Then, "We should like to see how you think on the spot, after all." Serenity stood, inclined her head slightly, and made to leave the tent. Mea and Beryl stood as well. "Where are you going?" Mea asked. "To make good on my one chance," Serenity answered, and then, as though in afterthought, stooped to fetch her Crystal. The gypsy boy was already bringing her gelding as Serenity strode from the tent into the sunlight, Mea and Beryl on her heels. She swung around suddenly and asked, "In which direction is the tent of Joshua?" "The slaver?" "The harem?" Mea and Beryl spoke nearly in unison. Serenity was not certain of the latter, but nodded anyway. Mea took a breath, then released it. "Care to inform us why you seek his tent?" "No," Serenity replied. And then, "His tent?" "North-west." It was Beryl who had spoken, and Mea was already glaring at her, although Serenity did not notice as she removed her cloak from a saddlebag and arranged it on herself, pulling the hood low over her face so that nothing but her mouth was visible. She took hold of the gelding's reins and began walking in the indicated direction. She could hear Mea and Beryl shuffling behind her, and suppressed a shiver, although a cold sweat was already breaking out on her. She had spoken quickly and without thought, naming the only slaver that she knew of. She had no plan, and was fearful of Mea and Beryl seeing her foil whatever plan they assumed that she had. She was setting herself up for humiliation. .But now she was at the tent, and tying the gelding up alongside seven other horses of various colors. The tent flaps were closed, but Serenity parted them and walked in. The tent was huge, although sectioned off by colorful drapes. She found herself in a small area, dimly lit, and facing the man from the night of her Coming of Age ball; the same one who had struck the girl and left her to die. Joshua. "Greeting, friend," he said loudly. "Are you here for business or pleasure?" "That depends," Serenity replied in a low voice, hoping that she passed for male. "I am wishful of a female. Your price?" Joshua laughed. "To bed or to buy?" Serenity felt herself flush, but then added, "To bed." "Any particular female, or just your average?" "It doesn't matter." Joshua laughed again. "A man after my own heart, indeed. Three silvers will get you your choice of any here. Simply pay and then proceed through those tent flaps; the women are waiting beyond." Serenity nodded, hoping that he could not see her trembling hands. She had no money, but she did have jewelry. Serenity was glad that the cloak covered her completely, so that he could not see her unclasp a bracelet that she had been wearing. She held it out to him then, and his eyes began to shine. "What can I get for this?" she asked dryly. That would have bought her five females of her choice to take as slaves, but Joshua could read naiveté like few could, and smiled slightly. "One to bed and another to buy. Of your choice, of course." Serenity handed him the bracelet, already regarding and discarding plots. She was making this up as she went along. "Right through that curtain," Joshua said distractedly, holding up the bracelet in front of his face. "And down the hall. They'll all be waiting in a common room, and you may choose your two then. Your bed-warmer shall show you to an empty room along the hall, and do remind her to take the willchide-stuff." "Willchide?" Serenity asked, recognizing the name of a small shrub. Joshua nodded, eyes still on the bracelet, although this addition to his wealth had made him talkative, and it was in this spirit that he answered her, giving far more information that he normally would. "When the roots are ground to a powder and mixed with dried Dandelion fuzz, and then, in turn, brewed as a tea of sorts, it works as a contraceptive." Serenity had heard the word contraceptive before, but did not know what it meant, although she had an idea. Decent, married women would not think of using such devices. They would be honored to carry a child and continue on the family line. Serenity stored this bit of knowledge into the crannies of her mind and then, nodding to Joshua, hurried through the tent flaps and down a hallway. Hanging curtains made rooms, and muffled noises could be heard on the other side of them. At the end of the hallway was a common area, where women were milling about. All wore collars, although their chains were removed so that they could move about freely. Serenity estimated about fifty to seventy, and the room was very crowded. Some nursed babies and children ran about, although the oldest child seemed to be about six. There were some young girls, and most of the women were scantily clad. "Do you need assistance, sir?" Serenity looked down and saw a young girl, perhaps seventeen, sitting at her feet with thin arms wrapped around her knees. Dark black hair hung, tangled and wavy around a thin, circular face and liquid brown eyes peered out. "Yes," Serenity replied. "I need two women; one to bed and another to buy." The girl didn't flinch, although Serenity did as she met the hallow eyes. "You may take your pick, sir." Serenity nodded, and chose at random. "Do you see that woman other there?" she pointed to a woman in her late twenties who was nursing an infant. "Fetch her for me, please. I shall take both her and you." "Yes, sir," the slave murmured, and hurried to do as she was bid. A moment later she returned, the older woman hustling after her with the baby clutched protectively to her breast. Serenity looked around quickly, and, seeing that no one paid them any particular attention, whipped off her cloak. In the time that it took the younger slave to gasp Serenity had thrown in over the mother's shoulders. "Hold the babe closely to you," Serenity whispered, "And nod to Joshua as you leave. He will think you me and let you pass. You," she turned to the younger slave, "Are to follow her demurely, as you would your new master. I shall follow as quickly as I can, although we cannot be seen leaving together. There will be people waiting for you on the outside of the tent; a hunchback and a tall woman with an abundance of red hair. Be quick." She had thought that they would be cowed, but they instead sprung into action. In a moment Serenity could see nothing more than their retreating forms, the older woman pulling the hood lower on her face and the young slave trailing her, head down and pace faltering.
END NOTES: Well, whatcha think? I'd like to apologize to my regular readers for submitting this week's chapter so late; I usually submit on Wednesdays, but got very busy and distracted this week, and now here it is, Friday 02/21/03 and I'm finally getting my butt in gear -_-' Anyway, the next few chapters will probably be slow/late in coming, because although I already have them written out, I'll be moving shortly, and it'll be really hard for me to access a computer what with all the work I'm doing. Please continue to read, review and email me, though!
semper_fi
Thanks to everyone who's written to me, and to those who haven't but still read. Thanks to those who have written a critique and to my mom, who proof-reads all this for me. Jan 23rd was her birthday, so I'd like to dedicate this chapter to her. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM!!!!!
~
In a world filled with pain Where's the love for which we pray? What's goin on When our children can't play Homeless can't eat There's gotta be a better way
~~~
Serenity lay in the bed next to Raphael, and thought that her first time had been nothing like the facts of her schoolbooks, the giggled tales of maidens or the songs of bards. Instead she likened it to a suffocating groping, sharp pain, and then incessant rubbing that left her feeling spent, cheated, and on the brink of tears. Serenity rolled out of bed and padded to the wardrobe, where she quickly tied a robe around herself, and then wandered into the adjacent washroom. She drew herself a bath from the water faucet-Mercury's latest invention, stolen by Mars and shipped to them as a bribe of sorts-and let the water run as hot as possible before slipping off her robe and climbing into the tub to soak and wash away the dirty feeling that had not left her since the moment that Raphael touched her. He had not been cruel, and had taken his time with her, but there was no love in his embrace, and Serenity felt as despoiled and wanton as any courtesan. The water had scalded her skin at first, but she had now become used to it and could endure the fiery temperature. She reached for a scrub on the side of the tub and washed herself violently, scrubbing until her skin was red and sore. Finally, heady and overheated with shame, Serenity pulled herself from the tub and dried herself off, then re-wrapped herself in the robe and walked back into the wedding chambers. Raphael opened an eye sleepily as she reappeared, then closed it and burrowed further under the covers. At that moment Serenity wanted nothing more than to sneak back into her own chambers and find rest in her own bed, but that was not possible and an unacceptable gesture. So, hugging the robe tighter to herself, Serenity curled up on a chair by the balcony and tried to find sleep, if only for a moment.
The next day Serenity sat stiffly at her vanity as Annie brushed out her long white hair. Neither had spoken yet that day, and Serenity kept on replaying the events of last night, although her mind shied away from her encounter with Raphael. He had woken this morning to see her sleeping in the chair, then dressed and left to breakfast. Where he was now, she did not know. Or care to know, Serenity thought bitterly, and wished that the voice would offer her advice, although she had not heard it since last night in her father's study, and it had remained stubbornly silent to all of her attempts of conversation. "Princess?" Annie ventured gently, genuinely worried for the girl. Serenity started at the sound of Annie's voice, then forced herself to reply calmly, "Yes, Annie?" "I know 'tis not my place." "Annie," Serenity began, "You know that I wish you to speak freely in my company." "Thank you, princess." The older woman took a breath, "I was wondering as to your meeting with Le last night. At the risk of sounding presumptuous, when Marie disappeared, and then you followed, I did not take it as a good sign." Serenity sighed. "You're right in guessing that it did not go well," swallowing her pride, Serenity recounted everything to Annie, leaving out names and places but covering the gist if it. When she had finished, Annie was shaking her head slowly. "How do you plan to meet.them, today, princess?" Annie asked. Although Serenity had not mentioned where it was that they were to meet, she had hinted that it was within the city limits. "I do not plan to meet them today at all," Serenity replied brusquely. "Perhaps tomorrow, but I will not go scampering back like some overly eager child. As for when I do go to meet them, I shall use the excuse of my Appaloosa stallion and say that I am merely returning him, which is partway true." Annie looked distressed, "Princess.would not it be easier for you royal parents to suggest that you turn over the horse and the name of his owner to a trusted servant, and then he deliver the animal back to the rightful owner?" Serenity's face fell. "You think that they'll want that?" "Likely so." "Then I'll just have to sneak out!" Serenity cried indignantly. But Annie was shaking her head slowly. "Princess," she started, "I have it on very good authority-" her son, who was a royal guard "-That orders have been issued to the guards not to allow you freedom to leave the palace grounds." Serenity could feel her face flushing with rage and embarrassment. "On whose order?" "The King's," Annie replied with quiet solemnity. Serenity clenched her fists, then unclenched them. Slowly, a plan was forming in her mind. Rising, she began gathering her hair into loops on either side of her head. "Gather my stylus, ink and writing parchments, please. My purple ink," she added as an afterthought, fastening her hair with peach ribbons, which brought out the color in her cheeks and the embroidered roses on her gown. As Annie ran to do as she had bid, Serenity cackled to herself. They have not outsmarted me yet! She thought jubilantly, overly proud of her plan, which was quite obviously sketchy to everyone but herself. Thinking herself very sly, Serenity waited until Annie had given her the requested materials before saying, "Now please fetch me a long cloak with a large hood, and be quick about it." By the time Annie had returned, carrying three cloaks, Serenity had finished both of her notes. "Please deliver this to my royal mother at once, and wait for her reply," she ordered, handing a note to Annie. While Annie was off delivering Serenity's message, the Crown-Princess held up the first robe. It was long and white and lined with chinchilla fur, but Serenity tossed it aside. Too extravagant, she decided, and then held up the second. It was overly large, had a hood, and was charcoal gray. Without viewing the last cloak, Serenity decided on this one, and, rolling in up in a wad, shoved it beneath her bed. Her note had said that she was not feeling well and wished to be excused from breakfast and relieved from the feasting tonight, although she promised to make an appearance for a short while. But this note was only the prelude, she knew, and was grinning when Annie reentered her chambers a few moments later. Wordlessly, the old woman handed the Queen's replying letter to Serenity, and the princess snatched it up and read it immediately.
I am most distressed to hear of your condition and hope that you are feeling better soon. You have been excused from breakfast and most of your duties today, as asked. I will see you at the ball tonight.
High Queen S.
That part was hastily scratched out, and printed darker beneath it was simply, Your mother
Those few words were enough to cloud Serenity's eyes over with tears, but she knew not why. Deciding that she was being preposterous, Serenity smiled brightly at Annie and said, "I believe that I shall embroider a great deal today. Care to join me?"
That night Serenity put too much powder on her face, to appear as though she were trying to cover a sickness, and didn't bother to rearrange her hair, which was still in its loop-style. Standing up straight, shoulders back, stomach in, chin up, she made her entrance into the ballroom, and all fell silent. Curtsying to her royal parents, in-laws and new husband, Serenity reveled in the freeness of movement that her new hairstyle provided. She could actually move around without the fear of stepping on her hair, which usually dragged the floor, but now only brushed against it. "Care to dance?" Raphael asked, and took her arm before Serenity could decline. Spinning her onto the dance floor, he managed to maneuver her away from her parents, so that by the time the dance was over he was leading her onto the balcony and away from the other revelers. "I have a chill," Serenity claimed, pulling her arm out of Raphael's grasp and attempting to rejoin her guests. "I would imagine so, what with the way you have your hair up," Raphael drawled, and something in his voice made Serenity turn around. "Whatever point you've been attempting to make, princess, you've either made it in abundance or failed miserably, but I cannot decide which. Perhaps you will help me by answering a few questions that have been plaguing my mind." Serenity had a sinking feeling that she knew what those questions were, but there was no polite way for her to avoid them. "Yes?" she asked cautiously. "Where were you on the night of your Coming of Age feast, and then a few nights later? Where were you last night?" when she opened her mouth to reply Raphael cut her off with, "And please do not repeat that story of being into your cups and such. Tipsy you may have been, but more on the euphoria of the moment; you were most definitely not foxed." "How dare you interrogate me?" Serenity asked. "You have just added to my headache, Prince Raphael.and besides all of that, 'twas no tale I told last night! What reason have I to lie?" And as she whirled away, leaving him on the balcony alone, Raphael dared to smile crookedly and say aloud, "That, my dear, is what I intend to find out."
Serenity walked up to her mother and said in a woeful voice, "Oh, Mother, I do feel terrible," she cast a glare in Raphael's direction, where he was sitting at the royal table, speaking with a duke. "I have the most wretched headache." Obviously hearing this, Raphael tipped his glass to her, smiling amiably. "Do you think you could withstand another few hours?" her father asked, but the queen was already shaking her head. "You'd best retire to your chambers at once, Serenity, before it worsens. Rest will do you wonders; now go, and send a messenger to me in the morning." Serenity nodded, and retreated from the ballroom without bidding her husband a goodnight.
The next day Serenity staid in her bed for most of the morning, and waited until it was almost time for the midday meal before dispersing Annie with a message to be delivered to her royal mother. Annie was to make haste and then wait for a reply, but it seemed like hours to Serenity before Annie bustled back into her chambers. "Well?" Serenity asked expectantly, and Annie handed her a folded letter.
It grieves and worries me to hear that you feel no better today, and although I would like to have you examined I will honor your request for a day of quiet and rest. No one will disturb you, and you have been excused from all activities. If your condition worsens any you must contact me at once, and you will at that time be submitted to a healer. As for the spotted stallion, the guards have been informed to wait for your servant, although it worries me a great deal that you would trust this girl with your own white steed.
Regardless and with concern, Mother
Serenity smiled a bit at this one. It was one of the most tender, nurturing words that had ever passed between her and her royal mother, and it distressed her that it came about because of a lie that she had concocted to escape the palace. "Princess," Annie looked hesitant to speak, but then continued, "Are you sure that want to go through with this? 'Tis a most ambitious plan, and clever, indeed, but not one what's fit for royalty." "That I know," Serenity replied, "And my mind is well made up." She paused, then, "My cloak, please." Annie pulled the charcoal cloak out from beneath Serenity's bed, and Serenity threw back the covers quickly, springing to the floor and glancing into the mirror. The gown that she wore today was much like all her others in the sense that it was white, but this one had blue-gray accents to it, and, that being the case, Serenity had tied up her white tresses with blue- gray ribbons. This gown was also a great deal plainer than the others because she had stayed up most of the night pulling the diamonds and sapphires from it and replacing them with plain embroidery. She was still quite obviously privileged, but to her eyes she seemed quite tame and poor in the exquisite gown. Serenity ceased admiring herself in the mirror, and turned to Annie. "Have you my scroll, Annie?" Annie nodded solemnly, handing the rolled parchment to the princess. They stood there a moment, looking into each other's eyes-though it was forbidden for servants to do so-and then Serenity smiled. "I'm off, Annie." "Aye." "Wish me luck?' Serenity coaxed. "Luck," Annie said simply, and as Serenity hurried from the room without a backward glance, "Gods know you'll need it."
Serenity made her way to the stables and reveled in the pleasure of being ignored. No one paused in their duties to bow or curtsy, and, were it not for her thick black cloak, she would be virtually anonymous. This time the stablemaster did not come out and greet her personally, and it was only after a few minutes of standing and waiting that a stable boy noticed her. "Are you lost?" he asked. "No," Serenity said after a moment, unused to his casual bluntness. "I wish for m.the Crown-Princess Serenity's white horse to be readied for me at once, and for her spotted stallion to readied as well. And I wish for a rope, with which to tie the stallion to the mare." The stable by looked incredulous. "By who's order?" Serenity bit off a cruel reply, remembering that he did not know who she was. "By the princess's." she reached into a pocket sewn into her cloak, and pulled out the scroll, which she had written up the day before. The stable boy took the scroll, noticing Serenity's own seal on the parchment, and handed it back to Serenity, because he knew not how to read. "Good enough," he said, then, "Wait here." Within twenty minutes he returned, leading both horses. He had tied a rope to the Appaloosa's bridal hoop, and then tied that to the back of the gelding's saddle. "Thank you," Serenity said, and waited for him to help her to mount. When he made no move to do so, Serenity bit her bottom lip and reminded herself of who she was pretending to be; a servant. Lifting her left leg as high as it would go, Serenity tried to get it through the stirrups. They were out of her reach, and Serenity loathed the idea of rushing the gelding and slithering onto his back again, as she had done the day after her Coming of Age feast. With this in mind, Serenity did a little hop, in the hopes of reaching the stirrup. She did not, and hopped again, pretending that she did not see the stable boy staring at her. "Would you like some help?" he asked at last, and Serenity thought that for a boy of about twelve, he did not catch on well. "Yes," she replied, and waited for him to lift her on. He did not. Instead, the boy hunched over a bit and laced his fingers together, so that his hands were forming a makeshift step. "Here," he said, when Serenity did not move, "Just put yer left foot there and I'll give ya a boost." Serenity looked from his face to his cupped hands, and dread spiraled through her. The very thought of being helped aboard a horse in such an ignoble way rankled, but Serenity saw no way around it. Swallowing her pride, the princess placed one small foot into the stableboy's hands, and nearly lost her balance as he hoisted her up. Quickly arranging herself on the horse, Serenity waited for him to bid her a farewell, but he was already halfway down the stable, and not looking back. Fine, Serenity thought, and then, to the horse, "Well, hurry now!" And off they went. Serenity marveled at how alive the palace suddenly seemed. No one shied from her presence, and everyone laughed openly. The gelding was in a lively mood, and they made good time. Serenity steered her mount toward the closest set of gates; they were not the main palace gates, but the side ones, which were used by servants. Serenity pulled her hood low over her face as they came up to the gates and a guard headed toward her. "May I inquire as to the nature of your outing, miss?" Wordlessly, Serenity reached into her cloak and handed him the scroll, then sat in agitated nervousness as he read it, frightened that he might see through her ploy. But he did not. "Thank you, miss." The guard handed her back the scroll. Serenity barely took the time to readjust the scroll beneath the folds of her cloak before she was urging her mount into a gallop, heading toward the city. She felt elated. I made it, Her mind kept on screaming, over and over again. I truly made it! The Appaloosa snorted, and Serenity laughed aloud. Her hood fell back a bit, and a light breeze tickled her face. Serenity laughed again, and soon she could see the city, a mass of spires in the distance. As she got closer, music and laughter reached her ears, accompanied by the sweet smell of cinnamon rolls and candied fruits. The city gates had been thrown wide open, and no guards were stationed at them. Serenity took this as a good sign, a very good sign indeed, and the Appaloosa, smelling foodstuffs, overtook the gelding and snorted in contempt when Serenity would not hasten after him. The day was hot, too hot to be wearing the cloak, and Serenity shrugged the hood off completely, and then the whole thing. She had been wearing it only so that she would not be recognized while leaving the palace, and now she wanted to enjoy the day and the weather, which she never got to appreciate from her secluded life in the palace. Serenity dismounted and untied the Appaloosa, so that she could lead both horses by the reins. He made no protest, but she continued to watch his eyes, ever wary should the sly light come back into them as it had the other night. She meandered through the laughing throngs of people, watching for Mea or Nicolas, but saw neither. Minutes turned into an hour, and Serenity began to grow impatient. Right when she planned on leaving, a gypsy boy danced up to her, flanked by three other children, all barefooted and merry. They clasped her hands and twirled, leading her to a large red and purple tent. The flaps were not drawn, and Serenity felt a chill pass through her. The children shoved her, and Serenity had no time to react before she was thrown through the curtains and into the dimly lit tent, where she landed, reins still clenched in white-knuckled fists, on her hands and knees. "Well, I see that you have held up your end of the bargain," came a voice, and Serenity stiffened without intending to. She looked up and saw Mea sitting on a blanket, his hunched back all the more pronounced by his Indian-style pose. Next to him sat a woman who appeared to be in her early twenties. High cheekbones were pronounced to the extent of looking feral, such was her thinness. Thin and tall. Her hair was fiery red and curled, falling down her back and pooling on the floor like liquid flame, longer even than Serenity's. It was her eyes, however, that caught Serenity's attention. They were lavender, as were her own, and the similarity was striking to the point of being shocking. Embarrassed by her lack of poise, Serenity scrambled to her feet quickly, and realized that she had dragged the horses in through the flaps. The Appaloosa whickered gaily and craned his neck toward the red-haired woman, while the gelding, true to his training, flicked his ears in Serenity's direction, alert to her slightest command. "Excuse me?" she ventured, trying to appear calm and in control. She smoothed her dress out self-consciously, attempting to conceal her trembling hands. "Our bargain," Mea repeated, and gestured toward the Appaloosa, who was rolling his eyes crazily and tossing his head. "You have reappeared, and with the Jupiterian stallion." "Indeed," Serenity replied, a bit affronted at being hauled into the tent in such an undignified fashion and having her honesty openly questioned and commented upon. She felt unbalanced, and was used to at least twenty minutes of pleasantries before diving straight to business. Very well, Serenity thought. I can play his game. "This is a lovely." she trailed off a moment, quite deliberately, ".Tent," she finished primly. "And your henchmen," she made a vague gesture to indicate the children, "Appear well fed and clothed," she let the implication set in before asking innocently, "Where is my Crystal?" She was rewarded as the woman's eyes widened and Mea's nostrils flared. Tit for tat, Mea thought to himself, then smiled at Serenity obligingly, dipping a hand into his pocket and pulling out the Crystal. He placed it on the blanket, not quite halfway between him and Serenity; more toward himself. Serenity smiled, and sat across from them without bothering to reclaim what was hers. Mea silently applauded this action, although his face remained blank. "The children will take the horses," Mea continued, breaking the silence. "When we have finished here you may reclaim your mount." Serenity nodded once. "First," Mea paused as the gypsy boy poked his head into the tent and Serenity handed over the reins, "I believe that introductions are in order." When Serenity said nothing, he granted her that and gestured to the redhead. "This is Beryl." Serenity inclined her head, never taking her eyes from Beryl's own. "And you are?" he prodded. Serenity tore her eyes from Beryl and met Mea's dark gaze. "Call me what you will, within reason." She replied, having suddenly decided that he need not know her name. Mea frowned. Luna, the Crystal whispered. And, "Luna," Beryl said. "Very well," Mea said. "Luna." Serenity shivered. It was the Crystal. It was the Crystal who had been speaking to her, and Beryl had heard, of this she was sure. "Now," Mea said, cutting off Serenity's thoughts. "We can begin." He looked at Serenity keenly. "You are not a part of this yet, not by far. You were permitted thus far because we cannot afford to let you out of our sight, do you understand?" he did not wait for Serenity to nod, but continued on, "You will have to prove your intentions, which will then be evaluated." His eyes bored into her own. "I do not believe that you have any cavalry. I believe that you are in this by yourself, and that you are a liability that should be taken care of as swiftly as possible. Unfortunately, because there is still that slight chance that you are telling the truth, we shall have to endure all this fuss. If at the end we can find no use for you, there shall be a dirty bit of work for a certain guard who shall not mind at all-are you following me?" "I believe I am," Serenity replied, and she was. "Good." Mea leaned back, regarding her solemnly. "We should like to see you in action, as this appears to be what you seek. You shall plan something to benefit our cause and carry it off. I shall accompany you in your task, as shall Beryl, and it shall be evaluated. You shall be given this one chance only, and it must be carried out today." Serenity nearly choked. "Today?" she repeated. "Today," Mea affirmed. Then, "We should like to see how you think on the spot, after all." Serenity stood, inclined her head slightly, and made to leave the tent. Mea and Beryl stood as well. "Where are you going?" Mea asked. "To make good on my one chance," Serenity answered, and then, as though in afterthought, stooped to fetch her Crystal. The gypsy boy was already bringing her gelding as Serenity strode from the tent into the sunlight, Mea and Beryl on her heels. She swung around suddenly and asked, "In which direction is the tent of Joshua?" "The slaver?" "The harem?" Mea and Beryl spoke nearly in unison. Serenity was not certain of the latter, but nodded anyway. Mea took a breath, then released it. "Care to inform us why you seek his tent?" "No," Serenity replied. And then, "His tent?" "North-west." It was Beryl who had spoken, and Mea was already glaring at her, although Serenity did not notice as she removed her cloak from a saddlebag and arranged it on herself, pulling the hood low over her face so that nothing but her mouth was visible. She took hold of the gelding's reins and began walking in the indicated direction. She could hear Mea and Beryl shuffling behind her, and suppressed a shiver, although a cold sweat was already breaking out on her. She had spoken quickly and without thought, naming the only slaver that she knew of. She had no plan, and was fearful of Mea and Beryl seeing her foil whatever plan they assumed that she had. She was setting herself up for humiliation. .But now she was at the tent, and tying the gelding up alongside seven other horses of various colors. The tent flaps were closed, but Serenity parted them and walked in. The tent was huge, although sectioned off by colorful drapes. She found herself in a small area, dimly lit, and facing the man from the night of her Coming of Age ball; the same one who had struck the girl and left her to die. Joshua. "Greeting, friend," he said loudly. "Are you here for business or pleasure?" "That depends," Serenity replied in a low voice, hoping that she passed for male. "I am wishful of a female. Your price?" Joshua laughed. "To bed or to buy?" Serenity felt herself flush, but then added, "To bed." "Any particular female, or just your average?" "It doesn't matter." Joshua laughed again. "A man after my own heart, indeed. Three silvers will get you your choice of any here. Simply pay and then proceed through those tent flaps; the women are waiting beyond." Serenity nodded, hoping that he could not see her trembling hands. She had no money, but she did have jewelry. Serenity was glad that the cloak covered her completely, so that he could not see her unclasp a bracelet that she had been wearing. She held it out to him then, and his eyes began to shine. "What can I get for this?" she asked dryly. That would have bought her five females of her choice to take as slaves, but Joshua could read naiveté like few could, and smiled slightly. "One to bed and another to buy. Of your choice, of course." Serenity handed him the bracelet, already regarding and discarding plots. She was making this up as she went along. "Right through that curtain," Joshua said distractedly, holding up the bracelet in front of his face. "And down the hall. They'll all be waiting in a common room, and you may choose your two then. Your bed-warmer shall show you to an empty room along the hall, and do remind her to take the willchide-stuff." "Willchide?" Serenity asked, recognizing the name of a small shrub. Joshua nodded, eyes still on the bracelet, although this addition to his wealth had made him talkative, and it was in this spirit that he answered her, giving far more information that he normally would. "When the roots are ground to a powder and mixed with dried Dandelion fuzz, and then, in turn, brewed as a tea of sorts, it works as a contraceptive." Serenity had heard the word contraceptive before, but did not know what it meant, although she had an idea. Decent, married women would not think of using such devices. They would be honored to carry a child and continue on the family line. Serenity stored this bit of knowledge into the crannies of her mind and then, nodding to Joshua, hurried through the tent flaps and down a hallway. Hanging curtains made rooms, and muffled noises could be heard on the other side of them. At the end of the hallway was a common area, where women were milling about. All wore collars, although their chains were removed so that they could move about freely. Serenity estimated about fifty to seventy, and the room was very crowded. Some nursed babies and children ran about, although the oldest child seemed to be about six. There were some young girls, and most of the women were scantily clad. "Do you need assistance, sir?" Serenity looked down and saw a young girl, perhaps seventeen, sitting at her feet with thin arms wrapped around her knees. Dark black hair hung, tangled and wavy around a thin, circular face and liquid brown eyes peered out. "Yes," Serenity replied. "I need two women; one to bed and another to buy." The girl didn't flinch, although Serenity did as she met the hallow eyes. "You may take your pick, sir." Serenity nodded, and chose at random. "Do you see that woman other there?" she pointed to a woman in her late twenties who was nursing an infant. "Fetch her for me, please. I shall take both her and you." "Yes, sir," the slave murmured, and hurried to do as she was bid. A moment later she returned, the older woman hustling after her with the baby clutched protectively to her breast. Serenity looked around quickly, and, seeing that no one paid them any particular attention, whipped off her cloak. In the time that it took the younger slave to gasp Serenity had thrown in over the mother's shoulders. "Hold the babe closely to you," Serenity whispered, "And nod to Joshua as you leave. He will think you me and let you pass. You," she turned to the younger slave, "Are to follow her demurely, as you would your new master. I shall follow as quickly as I can, although we cannot be seen leaving together. There will be people waiting for you on the outside of the tent; a hunchback and a tall woman with an abundance of red hair. Be quick." She had thought that they would be cowed, but they instead sprung into action. In a moment Serenity could see nothing more than their retreating forms, the older woman pulling the hood lower on her face and the young slave trailing her, head down and pace faltering.
END NOTES: Well, whatcha think? I'd like to apologize to my regular readers for submitting this week's chapter so late; I usually submit on Wednesdays, but got very busy and distracted this week, and now here it is, Friday 02/21/03 and I'm finally getting my butt in gear -_-' Anyway, the next few chapters will probably be slow/late in coming, because although I already have them written out, I'll be moving shortly, and it'll be really hard for me to access a computer what with all the work I'm doing. Please continue to read, review and email me, though!
semper_fi