AN: Heeey! Long time no see... Well, same old excuses for my late update.
Ha, rhyme. And I'm sorry. But here it FINALLY is. It kinda blows. I don't
think I like it. But, ah well. It's something. And it's super duper long,
well for me anyway. So there! Thank you, you lovely reviewers you! You made
me feel all nice and guilty to the point where I was staying up all hours
of the night finishing this. Not mentioning any names *cough*Lavender
Trish*cough* Thanks! Oh, and the last chapter, with the scene between
Endymion and Vienna, yes the idea was stolen from Sandra Brown's 'Where
There's Smoke.' Sorry Mrs Brown, if you wish to sue me, you have every
right. But if you do, you must be very, very, VERY desparate. And if you
are actually reading this story... I feel sorry for you. HAHAHA...no
offence to anybody reading this of course, HAHA..ha...Ahem. So thank you
anonymous reviewer who mentioned it. And rightly so. Anyway, shut up me. Be
gone!
Chapter 9
Knock, knock, knock.
Serenity's eyes snapped open. She blinked away her sleepiness and frowned in confusion. Her eyes then took in the ceiling of her room. Except sideways. She cocked her head. That was strange. That was not usually the way it is when she woke in the morning. It was then she realised that she was not lying right. Ah. She rolled her head to the side and glanced at the pillows at the head of the bed. Everything was upside down because she was. Or...at a ninety degree angle. Whichever. She had simply sat on her bed, lay back and fell asleep. She sat up and wondered what woke her.
Knock...knock.
Oh. Serenity scowled at the unwelcome intrusion and then reluctantly got to her feet. Whoever it was could wait. If they were desperate to see her they would be thumping the door open, not the lazy, slow sort of knock which led her to believe that they had all the time in the world, and did not really give a damn if she answered.
She had a good mind who belonged to that type of knock. But then, he had no reason to come and see her, and she doubted he would give up his precious time of the day to do so. He must also know that the door would slam in his face if it was him, so either way - God! Serenity scowled at herself. All this deep contemplation over a damn knock? She must really be getting pathetic. With one last heart-felt sigh, she strode languidly to the door and opened it.
The idea of the egotistical, self-involved prince belonging to the knock was not, as it appeared, so wholly inconceivable. He stood there, both hands in his pockets, eyes looking directly into hers. They then drifted down, down, so slowly it was as if he was memorising each indefinite detail. She inhaled sharply at his rapt inspection. She then glowered in annoyance at him, and herself. Bastard. How does he do that? Make her forget...just forget.
Her spine straightened in defiance and she braced herself against the doorway, blocking any possibility of him entering. "What?"
His eyes once again slowly made their way back up to her eyes. A lazy smirk then appeared on his face and as if by laser his eyes focussed on her lips. Under his scrutiny, she unconsciously licked her lips causing his smirk to falter and his face to take on an expression of hunger.
An immediate flush spread throughout her body. Then when she realised her internal and probably external reaction, she scowled once again in anger. Mainly at herself. She wanted to stamp her foot in frustration. "Endymion, what?" She demanded impatiently. She needed him out of her doorway and away from her room. As far away as possible. Preferably on his home planet.
His sapphire eyes flew to hers in what could only be described as shock. And a sort of intent wonder. "Say it again." He said quietly. His first words yet.
Confusion engulfed Serenity. "Say what again?"
"My name." He stated, still quiet.
Serenity, startled at his intensity still managed to maintain an annoyed expression. "Will it make you go away?" Forever. She added mentally.
His arrogant smirk returned at this. "No. But you can try."
The princess rolled her eyes and made a disgusted sound at the back of her throat. "Was there something you actually wanted? If not, please remover yourself from my doorway." She ordered in the tone of her princess status. She never knew where her mother's faithful ears could be lurking and if she was going to send somebody away, she would do it professionally.
"Fine." He replied easily and stepped towards her. She was not prepared for the action and automatically moved backwards to give him room. Then catching herself she started forward grabbing for the door but she was too late. He was already inside. He closed the door behind himself. His eyes stayed riveted on her.
Alarm and uncertainty overwhelmed her. Once again she was found alone with him in her own room. Her own room. This was the second, no, third time he managed to entrap her in her own domain, if you counted in the gardens. Her own private, not to mention personal, escapes and he succeeded in ruining them all. Was nothing sacred anymore? Did he have to contaminate everything?
"Please leave." Her tone demanding. Regal. Hiding her nervousness as he brazenly continued to stare at her. As if there was nothing better to look at. His gaze dropped to her breasts, not bothering to be subtle about it, making no effort to hide the direction of his gaze. Then absorbing the rest of her body in the same unnerving stare. She looked down at the simple mans shirt and riding pants she was wearing. Strange, she could not remember changing into those. Not that it mattered though, considering Endymion's intent look seemed to disintegrate them right off of her body leaving her naked before him.
Serenity flushed angrily crossing her arms over her chest in a defensive gesture. This man was insufferable. "Endymion." She demanded, nearly clicking her fingers in front of his face to capture his attention.
At the sound of his name he looked up at her and smiled. A smug smile of victory, telling her he had won whatever ridiculous competition she unknowingly participated in. She then realised she had given him exactly what he wanted; saying his name.
She rolled her eyes and nearly smiled at his ludicrous ploy. Then, catching herself in time, she planted her hands on her hips. "Was there something you wanted?" Stupid question. It was blatantly obvious what he wanted and she fiercely controlled the urge to glance downward, fairly certain she would see the evidence of his 'want'.
He moved closer to her. So close she could feel his heat, intimidating her with his sheer size and intensity. She immediately held out a hand to ward him off, but not necessarily wanting to touch him, so before skin encountered clothed broad chest she yanked her hand back. This did not prevent him from getting any closer however and she stubbornly refused to give him the satisfaction of running from him like a coward when that was exactly what she wanted to do. Well, either that or welcome him with open arms and that was about as likely as pigs flying, so she stood immobile, awaiting his dreaded touch.
Surprisingly it did not come. He just stood in front of her leaving her the delectable display of the skin available for her viewing pleasure where the top two buttons of his shirt were left undone. That glimpse of flesh revealed just a hint of the cement pectorals beneath. Her mouth began to water at the sight of that enticing piece of tanned skin just below the hollow of his throat. She wanted to touch it. Hell, she was all but drooling at the mouth, she wanted to touch her tongue to it. Biting was a plausible possibility as well.
Damn it all! She admonished irritated with herself. Was she certifiably insane? What the hell was she thinking? Lusting over a tiny piece of muscled, tanned, firm, sexy skin available for her eyes making her fingers itch to unbutton the rest - She mentally hit herself over the head. Damn it!
Fortunately (unfortunately?) the edible piece of skin moved out of her view, giving her room to send some well needed oxygen to her brain which then, immediately emptied once more as he slowly began to circle her, allowing his body to brush hers, the light touches zinging through her nerves like electricity. It was bad enough salivating at the sight of his body, actually feeling it nearly made her jump him, which predominantly made her all the more angry.
When he was at her side and he bent down behind the hollow of her ear to breathe in her scent she almost felt inclined to turn her head to face him, giving in to the temptation that was him. His body heat was absolutely seductive. Too seductive. Luckily she mentally shook herself and stubbornly remained still. No matter how much of a struggle it was. By the time he had moved on, circling just behind her he stopped. Not this again, she thought, remembering the scene in the garden. This time though, he did something different. With one hand he gathered her hair to one side, then ever so gently placed a lingering kiss at the nape of her neck. It was so delicate, so tender that she could have cried. Either that or turn around and wrap herself like a limpet around him. Preferably the latter.
When she felt all warmth leave her, it was then she knew he had moved away from her. She craved that heat from his body. She wanted it back. But her stoic persona never failed her before and she was damned if she was going to let it fail her now. She turned around and watched as he sat on the chair near her bed. No, he did not just sit on the chair, he possessed the chair. Like it was his. Like it belonged to him. He made himself quite comfortable, leaning back lazily and then focussed his gaze on her once again, arms laying complacently on the arm rests.
Quite amused, yet still angry she licked her lips and raised her eyebrows. Eyes shining in mirth as she took in his demeanour. Just make yourself right at home why don't you, she thought. Crossing her arms over her chest once more she stated sardonically, "Quite comfortable?"
His eyes never leaving hers. "Not yet." He stated slowly, as if savouring the words. His meaning clear.
Amusement fled from her eyes and was replaced with wariness. Within his gaze held unhidden, unbridled desire. And that made her nervous. Whatever happened to subtlety? She thought irrationally. She was used to such looks of course, but most times they were not so blatantly obvious. There were usually attempts made at hiding such expressions. Endymion had no intention whatsoever of hiding any lust he had for her. He was all but highlighting his arousal with neon lights. The sexual heat in his eyes, in his body made her realise him as a male. And scarily, a male she wanted in return. Which was precisely why he had to leave.
"I think you should -" She was interrupted before even finishing her sentence.
"Come here." He said it quietly, but the effect of those tranquil two words had the force of a threat. A dangerous one. She snorted at the absurdity of him thinking she would just happily stroll on over there and place herself right on his - what the hell?
Unbelievably she not only found herself obeying his command, but she had actually strolled on over to him and stood between his open legs. How in the bloody hell had that happened? Endymion however did not look at all surprised with her quandary. He had expected it after all. He was not accustomed to being refused so why should it begin now.
Serenity's internal dilemma simply appeared not to be connected at all to the inner workings of her own body. She could not, for the life of her, manage to move it away from him. In fact, it was as if it was hypnotised into obeying everything he said. And it shamelessly wanted to get closer. Her brain was obviously on strike.
The prince sat up languidly, taking his own sweet time and then, just as slowly placed his hands on her hips. His nose nearly touching her naval. His gaze lingering on her flat stomach. Serenity was spellbound by the stillness of it all. She could do nothing but stare down at his silky black hair, her fingers fighting the urge to immerse themselves within it. She held her breath, hoping some sort of hole would open up in the ground and she could escape this all too tempting scene by falling into nothingness.
Since that hole did not seem to want to cooperate and appear any time soon, the struggle her hands were experiencing was a losing battle. They boldly, of their own will, fluttered slowly up to his shoulders. Her mental resistance was turning into a fading memory. Her hormones were now controlling the body. Brain be damned.
As if sensing his triumph, his head tilted upwards, gaze settling on her face. She helplessly looked down at his own, she wanted to study each detail of his features with her fingers, but did not dare. Not yet. She wanted to trace the creases in his forehead, glide over the shape of his eyebrows, trail down to the indents at the corner of his eyes, dipping into the concave created from his cheekbones, finely cut, and following them down to skim over his mouth and rest beneath his lips.
Her eyes flared in shock as she realised she had just made fantasy a reality. Not only was she thinking of the ten digit scrutiny of his features, but she was actually putting thoughts into action. Her eyes focussed on where her fingers lay. His head bent to capture the middle finger of her right hand in his mouth, bathing the ball of said finger with his tongue. The pleasure from her finger raced through to her stomach and into her loins, creating a delightful warmth to form. If him sucking something so small, seemingly insignificant could send jolts through her body, she hated to think of what him sucking anything else could do. Or did she?
Startled by her train of thought, she quickly pulled her hands away from his face and behind her, worrying her bottom lip nervously. Endymion almost smiled at her apparent innocence, she could see it in his eyes, but he refrained from doing so. She was glad that his smile lost, otherwise she might begin thinking of him as a human being. She attempted to move away. Move her head at least.
He, knowing the moment was lost, immediately sought to recover it by snaking his hand up through her hair and holding her head immobile, staring steadily at him. "Don't look away." He said softly, threading his fingers through her silken strands. The lilting quality of his voice held her powerless. She could not resist him even if she wanted to. His hand massaged her skull, relieving tension she had not been aware of, melting her bones, her legs turning to jelly. She did not think she could stand anymore and he knew it, thus allowing him to manoeuvre her onto him. She found herself straddling his lap, each leg to either side of him.
As if that was not enough, he pulled her even closer so that her chest was pressed intimately against the broadness of his, his arousal nestled neatly within the notch of her thighs. Her eyes flared in alarm and an unknown amount of swift desire. She gasped in shock at their bodies touching. She went rigid, hands flying up to his chest in an attempt to push herself off. To her astonishment and subconscious delight, he simply prevented that movement by wrapping his arms more firmly around her, stifling any means of escape.
In a panic she pushed more forcefully against him, more belligerent, more defensive than before. She wanted to strike him, bite him since pushing did not seem to work, but that may have resulted in a more hazardous conclusion. Particularly on her part. He responded exactly the same way, except more gently, crooning softly to her, trying to make her relax against him.
"Don't fight me." He continued tenderly, stroking her hair with his right hand, curling his left arm more securely around her. Her struggles ceased temporarily, slowing down until the fight leaked out of her muscles and she all but melted against him in a weak surrender. It occurred to her that straddling a man was not the best way to discourage his attention, nor flatten her own interest.
"Don't fight this." He whispered softly into her hair once her struggles had faded. Her hands rested between their chests, fingers splayed out instead of clenched. Their groins touching; her legs still bent at the knees to either side of him; her breath slightly heaving from the effort of her resistance; her eyes closed at his soothing.
A sort of despair came into her eyes. A lingering sadness at the loss of a history of an embittered hatred of males. Princes to be more precise. And yet, with that loss of self she found a new sensation. One she had never experienced before, and yet one she came to anticipate. This feeling she only ever felt when she was with him. So in replace of that despair came a sense of vulnerable wonder at what this foreign emotion could evoke in her. What it may allow her to experience.
With that leading thought in her mind she slowly raised her head and stared into his eyes which held unconcealed longing. Her gaze dropped to his lips and she felt the desire flood into her senses. Her eyes widened with the thrill of the sensation. Her face lit up at the discovery of these feelings. And she found just letting them overcome her and enjoying them was much more pleasurable than fighting them. She wanted Endymion to show her more. How to accept and respond in kind.
Her head raised so she could face him squarely. As if he knew her inner transition, he stayed still, allowing her to have some control over the situation. His eyes stayed directed at her lips, awaiting contact. Shifting in discomfort, his hands pushed her hips down, anchoring their groins closer. There, much better.
This movement sparked an intense heat to liquefy and pool at the bottom of her stomach, increasing every touch, every connection between them tenfold. Uncertainty swamped her features at the swift intensity of emotions. Her brow creased in confusion and she became unsure of her position in all of this. Perhaps she was going a little too fast.
Endymion watched all this flicker over her face, understanding what was happening. "Easy now." He said lightly, gently, easing her into the motions, stroking, calming with his hands. His eyes were a scorching blue. The skin of his cheekbones and jaw pulled tight, confirmation to the strength of his desire. This showed her how much of an effort it took for him to allow her to set her own pace. A few simple strokes would be enough to push him over the edge, but he held back, willing her to run the show. Grateful for this and somewhat stunned by his apparent compliance, she embarked further in discovering what else sparked that fire in their bodies.
Seeing the tightness in his features, her hands drifted up to his face again, smoothing back the skin. Her hands then travelled up to his hair, pushing back the dark strands, sinking back down to end at his lips once more. Then idly drifting down his chin, skimming the length of his throat. She looked into his eyes. They seemed to take on a more relaxed appearance but it was strained. Satisfied with that result, she steadied her hands upon his solid shoulders, and once more ground herself down upon his arousal, watching his face as she did so. As anticipated, the same flutter and sparks flew through her body. She happily witnessed the deep rumble forming in the back of his throat and erupting on a low groan. His eyes flickered with the pleasure.
A smile of wonder spread across her face. Delight in her newfound sensual power shyly bloomed inside her. His eyes snapped up to her and the look he gave promised retribution. Not yet though, she thought pleasantly, knowing it was not his turn. "You like that." Her words more a statement than a question, excited by the glint in his eyes.
"Yeah." He growled, his features tense. His hands tightened their grip on her hips and then easing once more, remembering his unspoken promise allowing her to explore her fill.
She subconsciously perceived this act with glee, but primarily concentrated on what else made him growl. So, completely of its own accord, her hips ground down on him again, eliciting the thrill at the movement and once more extracting that sexy groan from Endymion. His fingers dug into the skin at her hips, not painfully, but not gently either. His expression was untamed.
"If you want this to last any longer, I suggest you not do that again." He snarled softly, nostrils flaring with each intake of breath.
The smile she gave him was teasing and at that realisation, Endymion scowled. Then, his eyes only giving her a ghost of a warning, his hand twisted up and settled on her breast. His thumb giving a deliberate sweep over the nipple.
Serenity's eyes widened and she gasped sharply at the electric current that ran through her body with the action. "Two can play at that game." He affirmed quite simply, smirking at the look on her face.
Delighting in the stimulation of his hand her eyes narrowed and she gave another undulating thrust of the hips, making his own eyes widen with surprise. This movement made her rub against his hand slightly and the simultaneous response was delicious. Her eyes snapped open, staring into is. She sucked in a breath on a gasp and released it with a shuddering, "Wow."
Endymion's remaining hand on her hip curled around to the small of her back, fetching her solidly up against him. Groin on groin, chest to chest, foreheads touching. He closed his eyes inhaling and then letting out his breath on a throaty moan. "Seconded."
Her hands drifted back up to his hair while the prince's second hand settled beneath her armpit, thumb leisurely stroking the side of her breast. Her pink tongue darted out to lick her lips as she stared into his eyes. Slowly, hesitantly almost, she leaned down and touched her lips to his. It was only a fleeting contact, a brush of acquaintance laced with a tempting hint of taste. They held for a few seconds, then she raised her head.
Receiving no unpleasant feelings, she lowered her head once more. This time, Endymion participated, curling his hand within her silken hair, holding her head in place. The kiss seemed to last forever. Tame yet strained. Tender in their pressure, just a rubbing, shaping of lips, awaiting the initiation of more. She had not expected such accommodating consideration from him. Shyly, Serenity's tongue licked his upper lip, seeking for more. At the motion, the prince groaned deep and slipped his tongue into her mouth, not thrusting deep but inviting her to taste him.
The shimmering pleasure she felt bolted through her body , zapping the nerves and leaving her boneless. With that feeling, she tentatively accepted the offer and sucked lightly at his tongue. Instantly a shudder ran through his body and the hand at the nape of her neck tightened slightly. Thrilled at this, she repeated the action, this time eliciting a groan from him, a deep sound that reverberated through his chest, sending the vibrations on to her own.
Her arms wrapped more tightly around his neck, shifting herself closer, rubbing their groins together. He suddenly took hold of her hips and released her mouth, pushing her somewhat away. She blinked at him, her eyes languid and dazed, as if she were a little unsure as to what happened.
Leaning forward slightly he gave her a soft peck on the lips. "I think we shall have to finish this later." He stated softly, his skin was flushed, and pulled taut across his cheekbones.
She shook her head in confusion, uncertainty entering her expression. "What's the matter?" She asked cautiously, fearing she did something wrong.
"It is nothing like that, princess." He assured her as if reading her mind, stroking her hair back from her brow. "It is just..." He trailed off slightly, looking towards the door.
Slowly she glanced over her shoulder and then back at him again. "It is just what?"
Endymion looked up at her and winked, "Knock, knock."
Serenity shot up in bed jerking awake. Eyes wide and mouth agape. Her eyes darted around the room, consciously noting it was still daylight, also aware of the position she lay on the bed: sideways.
"Oh my god." She mumbled in shock. That was a dream? She glanced around her once more, mindful that she was indeed alone in her room and that she had been only dreaming. Her skin was sticky with sweat, and she could hear her own breathing, coming hard and fast at first then gradually slowing as her heartbeat settled into its normal pace. Then, groaning in amazement she flopped back down onto her bed again. She focussed on the ceiling.
The upside down ceiling.
She bolted up from the bed once again. Frightened she sat stiff. Impossible, just impossible. It was just a dream. Just a -
Knock, knock, knock.
"What!?" She shrieked thinly, quietly to herself, open-mouthed as she stared at the door in wide-eyed horror. Irrationally and because it was the only thing she could think of doing at the moment, she pinched herself on the arm.
"Ouch." Ok, that did not appear to do anything but give her a sore arm. Scowling at her stupidity in believing the cliche method, she rubbed the afflicted area and sat rigid as she stared at the door. This could not be happening, it was just a dream. She looked down at herself, and sighed in relief. She was wearing a dress. The same lavender dress she wore earlier. Not the clothes in her dream. So this was just a coincidence.
Knock, knock, knock.
She started at the sound. But there was no harm in sitting here and waiting until the person left. They would think she was either not here or asleep. Which was true. So there.
"Princess Serenity?" Called a female voice through the door. "Are you there?"
Serenity's face lit up with happiness at the sound. So it was not him. Elated and strangely exhausted, she got to her feet, walked to the door and opened it.
**************************************************************************** *********
"So?" Kunzite asked over the sound of the bokkens clashing together.
"So?" Endymion replied, repeating the move. The impact from the strike jarred through its handle, vibrating through the arms of its holder. They were finely crafted bokkens, made from the strongest of trees, carved beautifully to perfection. The training equipment they used belonged to the Moon. The two men were excited at the prospect of being allowed to practise any foreign fighting tools. Should they be forced into battle on any particular planet, they would not want to be stuck with battle gear they did not know how to use. Should such occasion arise on the Moon, they would now be prepared.
"What's up?" Kunzite asked, pivoting around and efficiently attacking Endymion's right, which was just as efficiently blocked.
It seemed to be a routine ritual when either one of them, or both, had something to get off their chests. An aggressive, physical outlet, bar sex...with women... to release their frustrations. Virtually the average person's version of conversation. If it was not a technique of training, teaching and learning new moves, it was their way of saying they had something on their minds. Typical macho bonding minus alcohol and women.
This "discussion" was initiated by Endymion.
"Nothing much. Yourself?" His response was polite and friendly, well, as friendly as he could get while nearly knocking Kunzite to the ground, yet not pushing hard enough allowing him to regain his balance and block effectively.
"Same here."
The formalness of the day over and done with, the introduction to the conversation all sorted out, they properly began the fight. Forcefully attacking hard, defending for the safety of their bodies, as if their lives depended on it. A normal fight for the two of them otherwise. Both use to each others strengths, and well aware of their opposing weaknesses. They had their own barriers and rules initialised to their fights, which were not to be broken. But that did not withhold much. Aside from changing their opponents sex and killing them, everything else, essentially was allowed.
Yet, Kunzite had not seen Endymion fight him so violently before. There was usually some type of jovial civility between them, but today, the prince had something serious on his mind. They were both stripped to the waist, adorning loose, drawstring pants. Endymion in black, Kunzite in white, matching his braided pearl coloured hair. The physical exertion of this fight had them quickly break into a light sweat.
"Is it your father?" Kunzite questioned as he blocked an attempt to be disarmed.
"No."
"Your lovely step-mother?" He asked with a grin, attacking and defending vigorously.
The prince chuckled with scorn. Although the thought of her normally left a bitter taste in his mouth, recalling what happened between them only a few hours ago, almost brought up bile in the back of his throat. Far be it for him to think that any sort of sexual act performed on him by a beautiful woman, no matter how deranged, was disgusting, but the apparent beauty being Vienna made him feel sick to his stomach.
He almost felt inclined to feel guilty of tainting himself by being with her. A woman willing to be with him and help soothe any 'hard' feelings was always a welcome intrusion and he normally left with no ill-feelings and a revived libido. Fed and ready for more. This time though, a feeling of remorse and guilt nagged at his brain and he wanted it to go away. Make it disappear, for he feared he knew what, or who as the case may be, was causing it.
"God no, although she could do with a muzzle." Quite literally, he added silently, responding to Kunzite's question.
"Agreed." The general replied with a grimace, not being fast enough to guard his left, copping a blow from the prince. He backed up a little, promptly assessing the damage and then preparing for Round Two. While doing so, he consciously wondered what could be causing the prince's frustration. What or who could possibly make the prince fight as if he had not been laid in mon -
Kunzite stopped his attacks as his thoughts all pointed to the answer. His eyes widened in surprised delight at the concept, that all this aggression, all these near killing blows was due to pent up sexual frustration. And not just over any particular body, but -
"Serenity." He said aloud. The reaction he received was instantaneous, a violent would be head rolling attack had the general not the common sense to expect it and duck. Instead of worrying that he was almost actually killed, or dangerously paralysed, his amusement peaked and erupted into a bark of laughter. At that he was forced to defend himself from Endymion's following powerful attacks, that would otherwise result in a change of gender.
This however did not allow his amusement to subside. Seeing the aggression behind each blow only increased it. All this over a woman...no, a girl. A not yet sixteen year old girl. A spoilt little chit of a princess who ate up and spat out prince's for a hobby. Whose beauty spellbound and captured men's hearts or/and other muscles with a simple glance, then destroyed them in only a matter of minutes.
And the one man, prince, irresistible to all woman far and wide; who also enjoyed the leisurely sport of destroying hearts and never gave women a second thought, was frustrated and angered to a boiling physical rage over this particular female. This was too good to be true. An impossibility made possible. Endymion never had trouble with women. Never, with a capital 'N' in bold and italicised. They simply flocked to him like moths to a deadly flame, unprepared for the heat and all he needed to do was snap his fingers and they were on their backs before you could say 'easy'. They came, they saw, they died a miserable, painful burning. Some played the chase, but never lasted long. They could never withhold his interest if they did, which was never, and once they succumbed, the prince got bored. He made the rules, he played the game and he won. Every time. Simple.
Now...to see Endymion like this, violently unleashing his anger and frustration as so over a female, a princess, was the most entertaining thing he had seen in a while. And a very, very wonderful opportunity for Kunzite to avoid playing with.
"So, anything interesting happen today?" He asked innocently, his eyes gleeful as they continued their usual ritual of fighting and withholding a conversation simultaneously.
"No." Was the curt grunt of a reply issued from Endymion.
"Nothing?"
Endymion's expression turned dark as he drove more force behind his attack, efficiently counter-attacked by Kunzite. "Nothing." He answered shortly.
The brave general prodded the beast again. "Nothing at all?"
"God, you are like a broken record." Endymion snarled irritably.
"I am just making sure." Kunzite answered wearing a mask of innocence, hands raised in surrender. They mutually decided to take a break, walking over to the small table and resting their weapons on it. The white-haired general picked up a towel and wiped his face and chest of sweat.
"These bokkens are good. Perfect weight, great strength." Endymion started, an attempt at side-tracking his friend from the coming interrogation.
"No, no." Kunzite countered with a grin, as expected. "You are not changing the subject with me, son."
The prince rolled his eyes in annoyance, drinking from the cup sitting on the table, while at the same time dabbing at the drops of sweat on his forehead. "What subject is that?" He asked nonchalantly after he had finished his drink.
"Oh, the weather. What do you think?" Kunzite stated abruptly. "I want all the exceptional details of how badly the delectable little princess burned you." He finished confidently, leaning back against the table, arms crossed over his chest.
Endymion scowled at his friend, before picking his bokken up once more. "Let's go again." Ignoring the questions entirely.
Kunzite narrowed his eyes in displeasure. And then smirked, "Shit! How bad was it?"
Endymion threw the wooden weapon from hand to hand, gripping it with his left, then throwing it back to his right again. His thoughts, no matter how hard he fought it kept on drifting back to earlier that morning. Before Kunzite sought him out while he was brooding in his room, before Vienna released the pressure from his groin with her talented mouth, before the news of Daemon, back to where he could still recall the strength in which Serenity's thighs were wrapped around his hips.
He closed his eyes in distant misery. He did not need this now. Especially when he could feel Kunzite ready to shove it back down his throat with scornful glee. All he wanted to do, was fight him, preferably hurt him in the process, unleash all his pent up frustration, and go back to life as it was before. Before the tempting embodiment that was the princess. Before her drugging kisses and all too enticing body. Before the taste of her mouth, skin; feel of her hair, the silkiness he imagined trailing down his chest, down to his naval before she dipped her head to -
He groaned aloud, looking up to find his general, ex-best friend, grinning as if he had a damn coat hanger rammed in his mouth. Endymion's mood lightened slightly at the idea of happily making that happen. Remembering Kunzite's question, he sighed heavily before answering. "Bad."
"Are you serious?" The general's eyes lit with great amusement and genuine surprise. He had suspected it, anticipated it, but did not think it ever possible.
Endymion smirked, glad that he would have this chance to douse his friend's immediate happy expectations. "Bad in a good way." He answered, his darkened mood pleasantly taking in the confusion he was causing.
"Sounds intriguing." Kunzite answered, confused but still vaguely amused at the prospect. "Do explain."
"What is to explain?" Endymion tried, obviously failing when Kunzite's expression became one of maintaining determination as a reply. His irritated mood darkened once more at having to relinquish the events of that day and put them up for his friend to gloatingly analyse. Yet, it seemed a notion which was unescapable.
"A lot by the sounds of things."
"Like your loss of brain?" He countered sardonically.
Kunzite smirked. "Humour me."
Endymion sighed in annoyance. His mind heedlessly pushed through to the source of all his surliness. Of course the answer was there, unwanted but as clear as a sunny day. A spoilt little brat of a girl, princess whom was only introduced to him through a forced marriage attempt and a ridiculous bet. He enjoyed the challenge she represented. That was always a welcomed prospect, because sooner or later, he prevailed, adding another victory to his growing collection. In this case, it would be two: Serenity and Mina.
Mina, whose radiance blinded his best friend without effort. The perception was not lost on him either. She was truly and unfailingly beautiful. Her sunlight blonde hair and slim long legs and the thought of those legs wrapped around him was enough to make any man's heart stop. With the added thought that he was yet to experience those legs, made this bet, this challenge all the more enticing. Not that he would actually try for her. He was not that heartless. Not yet anyway. He was not going to take the love of his best friend's life, although it was fun to goad him. But that did not mean he would lose their bet either.
So he was initially back to square one. Throughout that deep contemplation, he had not accomplished any new form of conclusion. Which was probably due to him not actually thinking of the main source of the problem: the princess. Back to the silver-haired beauty. Back to the beast. His mind stubbornly refused to delve any further.
"Hey?" Kunzite said, knocking his fist on the side of Endymion's head. "Anybody in there?" Scowling, the prince swiped at his friend's hand, pushing him away.
"Piss off." He growled annoyed; annoyed with his friend and himself.
"It IS alive." The white-haired general stated, smirking at his enraged friend. He still could not get over the idea that Endymion was this antsy over a girl. Watching him squirm and evade all of his questions was absolutely priceless. Yet curiosity won over mocking, so he pushed some more, risking his head for explanations, literally. "So, can I get my new sword gift wrapped?"
Endymion regarded his friend with amusement, "You can get the sword up your ass if you like."
Kunzite chuckled, picking his bokken up from the table, retaining the feel for the wood once again before answering. "Sounds kinky." Pushing himself away from the table, he followed the prince onto the fighting mat, preparing for their second battle. "You are not going to answer my questions are you?" He said seemingly unfulfilled, eyeing his elusive friend with dismay. He may not get explanations from the horses mouth, so to speak, but luckily for him, it was entirely readable from Endymion's eyes. And the frustration liberated through their training battles was enough for him to eventually expect answers. And expect one hell of an interesting story.
"No. I'm not." And with that, the prince brought his bokken down upon Kunzite.
**************************************************************************** *********
"Queen Vienna." Serenity said in surprise. She was shocked to see the young queen in her part of the castle, let alone in her doorway. Anyhow, the dream, the Dreaded Dream as she had quickly likened to titling it, was at the forefront of her mind at the moment, so this was a welcome intrusion. The less time she had to think about it, the better.
"Princess." The queen greeted tightly. She was rattled by how truly stunning the young girl was. Acutely noticing that none could compare. Not even her, and that caused fury to creep through her skin. If anybody were to win the prince from her, it would be this slip of a girl. Her beauty was the only thing going for her however, Vienna thought smugly, apart from that she was surely a simple pushover.
Serenity became confused at the short silence. "Is there something I can help you with?" She asked politely, curious to her appearance. She was usually a person who led with her gut instincts, who perceived and acted off a person's first impressions, and the feeling she was receiving from the Earth's queen was a sense of foreboding. The discomfort she felt was a niggling sensation at the back of her mind, slowly pushing its way through as she was surveyed under Vienna's critical gaze. Her first instinct was screaming at her to slam the door on her cold face and hide under the blankets. And for the life of her, she could not figure out why.
She shook it off as some insane after-effect caused by the staggering events of her dream and the proceedings leading up to now. Satisfied with that answer, she gave Queen Vienna the benefit of the doubt.
"May I come in?" She asked politely, not even waiting for a response before stalking in confidently.
Amused at the notion that perhaps some events of her dream were a prediction after all, yet disallowing herself to think of anything beyond that. Should her mind wander along other actions in her dream, her incredibly vivid dream, pondering over its meaning, she may not be able to hold an understandable, let alone polite conversation.
"Sure." She replied anyway, knowing that she was not exactly given a choice in the matter.
Queen Vienna's gaze lighted on several objects of the princess' room. Her balcony, the adjoining bathroom, wardrobes and dressers , then finally taking in the bed with the beginnings of a sneer darkening her beautiful face. Has he been there? She wondered gravely. Serenity was oblivious to all this, subtly sneaking glances outside in the hallway, seeking an unknown distraction. She could not avoid the feeling of caution looming with Vienna's appearance.
"It is hard being the step-mother to such a stubborn young prince." She stated abruptly, still facing the bed, her back to the princess.
Serenity was startled at the topic of conversation. Was this the symbolic white hat through the door as a peace offering? Making no effort to hide it this time, she poked her head out the door and scanned the hallway for any sign of the scoundrel prince. If this was his idea of some sort of joke, some sort of ploy to pry information from her, she would definitely kill him this time. Or tear off his genitals. Hmm...that held merit. Seeing no sign of him she turned back to the queen with eyes narrowed.
"Did he send you here?" She asked suspiciously, watching as Vienna turned quickly in amusement.
"No, my dear." She answered with a smirk, purposely belittling the princess with her title. "Nobody sends me anywhere." She finished quite firmly, staring down her nose with disparagement.
"Oh." Serenity admonished, chastising herself for allowing him to enter her thoughts. Again. The damn man not only took over her body and dominated her dreams, he was her every second thought. Scowling in anger she glanced up to see the queen making a luxury of her bed. She sat down and glided her hands over the silkiness of Serenity's covering slip. Anger swiftly turning to amusement, she bit back a laugh.
Stretching out backwards, resting herself on her elbows she eyed the princess with hidden scorn. "He is handsome is he not?" She asked with a tight smile, eyes distant.
Startled and confused at her question, she replied accordingly. "I'm sorry?"
"The prince." The queen stated, sitting back up so she was only leaning on her hands. Sensuality displayed through every action. "Endymion." She added, tasting his name with relish, licking her lips before finishing, "Is he not handsome?"
Serenity looked around the room as if seeking help before frowning with disbelief. Was she for real? Why did everyone she talk to, everything she do, evolve around him. As if there was nothing better to talk about. Like, a nice change of topic to... animals...where she tackled him into the most seductive kiss she had ever experienced in her entire life...Damn it! Shaking her head of those distracting thoughts, she reverted back to her apparently normal self before responding.
"Ok." The word lingered, sounding as if it were more of a question than an answer.
"Oh come on, princess. You must admit he has a sort of dangerous magnetism to him. He is definitely the most gorgeous man I have ever encountered. I am sure you would agree." She confirmed disbelievingly. "Why, if I myself were younger, I would definitely had made a play for him." She ended with a secret little smile.
Serenity did not doubt it. Thoroughly amused yet hiding her desire to smile she countered with, "But you love his father."
Queen Vienna's eyes widened a little, struck out of her daydream and appraisal of the prince. She sat rigid, and answering indignantly, "Well of course."
Of course. Serenity's eyes shone with rampant glee. If only Mina were here to hear this. Hell, if only Endymion were here to hear this. It would obviously swell his head, but it would be oh so fun to share the amusement. She could not fathom for the life of her what Vienna had actually come in here to say. If she indeed did intend to stand in her own room and spout epithets of all Endymion's many attractive qualities, she would hurl herself over the balcony.
As it appeared though, the young queen seemed to collect herself and stood. Seemingly flustered by the princess' reproval of her she straightened incensed. "Yes well, I just came to say that it would be best if you stayed away from him." Vienna had not actually intended to phrase her warnings as such, but she had come here expecting to find an enamoured princess and instead received an indifferent response to the princes' charm, of which he had many. She had come here expecting to break a smitten young girl's heart by listing numerous impossibilities to why they could never be. She anticipated toying with her emotions and then destroying them.
Unfortunately, that all seemed an improbability. Not only was the princess the least perturbed, nor was she inclined to participate in admiring Endymion's most desirable traits, she looked almost as if she were about to laugh at her. Vienna was enraged at the notion. Nobody, nobody laughed at her. Especially some snot-nosed brat of a girl who would not know a man if he broke her pretty little neck.
Serenity stared humorously surprised. Vienna was actually warning her to do something she had already intended anyway. She smothered her giggle with a cough. She knew her reasons for wanting to avoid the prince at all costs, but she wanted to hear what Vienna recommended. It is so unfair, she thought despairingly, that I can not share this hilarity with somebody else.
"Why is that?" Innocence masking her features.
The young queen composed herself, attempting control in the situation taken out of her hands. "I am just looking out for you, my dear, as one woman to another." She regretted she did not play the empathy card sooner.
"It appears one of us is at a misunderstanding." Serenity tried, attempting to draw out Vienna's point.
"All I am trying to say is, do not get your hopes up." Vienna almost sneered, yet withdrawing her resentment and transforming it into a facade of maternal advice. "Endymion is not very stable when it comes to relationships. Practically night after night he brings home different women and he is very ruthless in his dismissals."
Serenity almost snorted at the prospect. Did Vienna think she was stupid? Did she actually think that after all she had been through with different men, different princes she would give her heart to this one?
"I just did not want you falling in love with him." It appeared it was not so utterly unthinkable. Vienna stalked closer towards Serenity, lioness intimidating unsuspecting prey. Her whole persona exuded a cold sensuality. It was as if she employed it to overshadow her opponent. Overwhelming her into believing she could not compare.
Serenity however was not amused. No, that was a lie, she was greatly amused. What she was not, was interested. She almost looked bored at the ploy. "Is that what you came here to tell me?" She asked lazily.
This time Vienna's contempt displayed across her features near startling Serenity with the intensity of her hatred. "I came here to warn you that should you even attempt to make a play at the prince, you will only get your heart broken. He will not change in his ways, he will continuously stroll through life taking pleasures with whomever he desires, and will not commit to just one person." Walking past a smirking Serenity, she turned at the door. "I strongly suggest you leave him," 'to me', she almost finished, but caught herself in time, "alone. For that is the only conclusion you shall see." Before she could stroll on out the door Serenity's words stopped her.
"What makes you think I have not already captured his attentions?" Vienna turned, her glare one which could kill. Was this little girl challenging her? Did she really think she could take her Endymion? Did the little idiot have a death wish? "What makes you think we have not already...explored...certain possibilities?" She asked, subtly implying any physical encounters between them. She wanted to hit herself for what she was suggesting, as if she were flaunting those instances that she desired to forget. But when this queen came in here, telling her what she should be doing, or not doing as was the case, she could not help herself. One queen mother giving her orders about her love life was one too many.
Vienna wanted to kill her. Quite strongly, this need to destroy was almost overwhelming. Luckily she contained the urge, not letting the bitch get the best of her. "Believe me princess, I know, personally, that you are not the only one whom Endymion gets to play with." She said quietly, sneer becoming a smirk of victory when she watched amusement in Serenity's eyes, flicker to confusion, then a certain form of revulsion. It was just in her eyes of course, those which were far easier to read than the rest of her features. They were moulded into stone.
The princes cleared her throat. "I appreciate your concern Queen Vienna, but you have no need to trouble yourself over the matters of my heart. I guarantee you it is safe, and in its rightful place." She countered, her voice husky. Her blue eyes dark.
Vienna eyed the princess cautiously, confirming that she did indeed accomplish her intentions and then with a hidden smile of satisfaction she bowed her head. "Very well." And with that, she walked away, leaving the princess to contemplate things further within the privacy of her room, her mind cluttered with tainted dreams.
Chapter 9
Knock, knock, knock.
Serenity's eyes snapped open. She blinked away her sleepiness and frowned in confusion. Her eyes then took in the ceiling of her room. Except sideways. She cocked her head. That was strange. That was not usually the way it is when she woke in the morning. It was then she realised that she was not lying right. Ah. She rolled her head to the side and glanced at the pillows at the head of the bed. Everything was upside down because she was. Or...at a ninety degree angle. Whichever. She had simply sat on her bed, lay back and fell asleep. She sat up and wondered what woke her.
Knock...knock.
Oh. Serenity scowled at the unwelcome intrusion and then reluctantly got to her feet. Whoever it was could wait. If they were desperate to see her they would be thumping the door open, not the lazy, slow sort of knock which led her to believe that they had all the time in the world, and did not really give a damn if she answered.
She had a good mind who belonged to that type of knock. But then, he had no reason to come and see her, and she doubted he would give up his precious time of the day to do so. He must also know that the door would slam in his face if it was him, so either way - God! Serenity scowled at herself. All this deep contemplation over a damn knock? She must really be getting pathetic. With one last heart-felt sigh, she strode languidly to the door and opened it.
The idea of the egotistical, self-involved prince belonging to the knock was not, as it appeared, so wholly inconceivable. He stood there, both hands in his pockets, eyes looking directly into hers. They then drifted down, down, so slowly it was as if he was memorising each indefinite detail. She inhaled sharply at his rapt inspection. She then glowered in annoyance at him, and herself. Bastard. How does he do that? Make her forget...just forget.
Her spine straightened in defiance and she braced herself against the doorway, blocking any possibility of him entering. "What?"
His eyes once again slowly made their way back up to her eyes. A lazy smirk then appeared on his face and as if by laser his eyes focussed on her lips. Under his scrutiny, she unconsciously licked her lips causing his smirk to falter and his face to take on an expression of hunger.
An immediate flush spread throughout her body. Then when she realised her internal and probably external reaction, she scowled once again in anger. Mainly at herself. She wanted to stamp her foot in frustration. "Endymion, what?" She demanded impatiently. She needed him out of her doorway and away from her room. As far away as possible. Preferably on his home planet.
His sapphire eyes flew to hers in what could only be described as shock. And a sort of intent wonder. "Say it again." He said quietly. His first words yet.
Confusion engulfed Serenity. "Say what again?"
"My name." He stated, still quiet.
Serenity, startled at his intensity still managed to maintain an annoyed expression. "Will it make you go away?" Forever. She added mentally.
His arrogant smirk returned at this. "No. But you can try."
The princess rolled her eyes and made a disgusted sound at the back of her throat. "Was there something you actually wanted? If not, please remover yourself from my doorway." She ordered in the tone of her princess status. She never knew where her mother's faithful ears could be lurking and if she was going to send somebody away, she would do it professionally.
"Fine." He replied easily and stepped towards her. She was not prepared for the action and automatically moved backwards to give him room. Then catching herself she started forward grabbing for the door but she was too late. He was already inside. He closed the door behind himself. His eyes stayed riveted on her.
Alarm and uncertainty overwhelmed her. Once again she was found alone with him in her own room. Her own room. This was the second, no, third time he managed to entrap her in her own domain, if you counted in the gardens. Her own private, not to mention personal, escapes and he succeeded in ruining them all. Was nothing sacred anymore? Did he have to contaminate everything?
"Please leave." Her tone demanding. Regal. Hiding her nervousness as he brazenly continued to stare at her. As if there was nothing better to look at. His gaze dropped to her breasts, not bothering to be subtle about it, making no effort to hide the direction of his gaze. Then absorbing the rest of her body in the same unnerving stare. She looked down at the simple mans shirt and riding pants she was wearing. Strange, she could not remember changing into those. Not that it mattered though, considering Endymion's intent look seemed to disintegrate them right off of her body leaving her naked before him.
Serenity flushed angrily crossing her arms over her chest in a defensive gesture. This man was insufferable. "Endymion." She demanded, nearly clicking her fingers in front of his face to capture his attention.
At the sound of his name he looked up at her and smiled. A smug smile of victory, telling her he had won whatever ridiculous competition she unknowingly participated in. She then realised she had given him exactly what he wanted; saying his name.
She rolled her eyes and nearly smiled at his ludicrous ploy. Then, catching herself in time, she planted her hands on her hips. "Was there something you wanted?" Stupid question. It was blatantly obvious what he wanted and she fiercely controlled the urge to glance downward, fairly certain she would see the evidence of his 'want'.
He moved closer to her. So close she could feel his heat, intimidating her with his sheer size and intensity. She immediately held out a hand to ward him off, but not necessarily wanting to touch him, so before skin encountered clothed broad chest she yanked her hand back. This did not prevent him from getting any closer however and she stubbornly refused to give him the satisfaction of running from him like a coward when that was exactly what she wanted to do. Well, either that or welcome him with open arms and that was about as likely as pigs flying, so she stood immobile, awaiting his dreaded touch.
Surprisingly it did not come. He just stood in front of her leaving her the delectable display of the skin available for her viewing pleasure where the top two buttons of his shirt were left undone. That glimpse of flesh revealed just a hint of the cement pectorals beneath. Her mouth began to water at the sight of that enticing piece of tanned skin just below the hollow of his throat. She wanted to touch it. Hell, she was all but drooling at the mouth, she wanted to touch her tongue to it. Biting was a plausible possibility as well.
Damn it all! She admonished irritated with herself. Was she certifiably insane? What the hell was she thinking? Lusting over a tiny piece of muscled, tanned, firm, sexy skin available for her eyes making her fingers itch to unbutton the rest - She mentally hit herself over the head. Damn it!
Fortunately (unfortunately?) the edible piece of skin moved out of her view, giving her room to send some well needed oxygen to her brain which then, immediately emptied once more as he slowly began to circle her, allowing his body to brush hers, the light touches zinging through her nerves like electricity. It was bad enough salivating at the sight of his body, actually feeling it nearly made her jump him, which predominantly made her all the more angry.
When he was at her side and he bent down behind the hollow of her ear to breathe in her scent she almost felt inclined to turn her head to face him, giving in to the temptation that was him. His body heat was absolutely seductive. Too seductive. Luckily she mentally shook herself and stubbornly remained still. No matter how much of a struggle it was. By the time he had moved on, circling just behind her he stopped. Not this again, she thought, remembering the scene in the garden. This time though, he did something different. With one hand he gathered her hair to one side, then ever so gently placed a lingering kiss at the nape of her neck. It was so delicate, so tender that she could have cried. Either that or turn around and wrap herself like a limpet around him. Preferably the latter.
When she felt all warmth leave her, it was then she knew he had moved away from her. She craved that heat from his body. She wanted it back. But her stoic persona never failed her before and she was damned if she was going to let it fail her now. She turned around and watched as he sat on the chair near her bed. No, he did not just sit on the chair, he possessed the chair. Like it was his. Like it belonged to him. He made himself quite comfortable, leaning back lazily and then focussed his gaze on her once again, arms laying complacently on the arm rests.
Quite amused, yet still angry she licked her lips and raised her eyebrows. Eyes shining in mirth as she took in his demeanour. Just make yourself right at home why don't you, she thought. Crossing her arms over her chest once more she stated sardonically, "Quite comfortable?"
His eyes never leaving hers. "Not yet." He stated slowly, as if savouring the words. His meaning clear.
Amusement fled from her eyes and was replaced with wariness. Within his gaze held unhidden, unbridled desire. And that made her nervous. Whatever happened to subtlety? She thought irrationally. She was used to such looks of course, but most times they were not so blatantly obvious. There were usually attempts made at hiding such expressions. Endymion had no intention whatsoever of hiding any lust he had for her. He was all but highlighting his arousal with neon lights. The sexual heat in his eyes, in his body made her realise him as a male. And scarily, a male she wanted in return. Which was precisely why he had to leave.
"I think you should -" She was interrupted before even finishing her sentence.
"Come here." He said it quietly, but the effect of those tranquil two words had the force of a threat. A dangerous one. She snorted at the absurdity of him thinking she would just happily stroll on over there and place herself right on his - what the hell?
Unbelievably she not only found herself obeying his command, but she had actually strolled on over to him and stood between his open legs. How in the bloody hell had that happened? Endymion however did not look at all surprised with her quandary. He had expected it after all. He was not accustomed to being refused so why should it begin now.
Serenity's internal dilemma simply appeared not to be connected at all to the inner workings of her own body. She could not, for the life of her, manage to move it away from him. In fact, it was as if it was hypnotised into obeying everything he said. And it shamelessly wanted to get closer. Her brain was obviously on strike.
The prince sat up languidly, taking his own sweet time and then, just as slowly placed his hands on her hips. His nose nearly touching her naval. His gaze lingering on her flat stomach. Serenity was spellbound by the stillness of it all. She could do nothing but stare down at his silky black hair, her fingers fighting the urge to immerse themselves within it. She held her breath, hoping some sort of hole would open up in the ground and she could escape this all too tempting scene by falling into nothingness.
Since that hole did not seem to want to cooperate and appear any time soon, the struggle her hands were experiencing was a losing battle. They boldly, of their own will, fluttered slowly up to his shoulders. Her mental resistance was turning into a fading memory. Her hormones were now controlling the body. Brain be damned.
As if sensing his triumph, his head tilted upwards, gaze settling on her face. She helplessly looked down at his own, she wanted to study each detail of his features with her fingers, but did not dare. Not yet. She wanted to trace the creases in his forehead, glide over the shape of his eyebrows, trail down to the indents at the corner of his eyes, dipping into the concave created from his cheekbones, finely cut, and following them down to skim over his mouth and rest beneath his lips.
Her eyes flared in shock as she realised she had just made fantasy a reality. Not only was she thinking of the ten digit scrutiny of his features, but she was actually putting thoughts into action. Her eyes focussed on where her fingers lay. His head bent to capture the middle finger of her right hand in his mouth, bathing the ball of said finger with his tongue. The pleasure from her finger raced through to her stomach and into her loins, creating a delightful warmth to form. If him sucking something so small, seemingly insignificant could send jolts through her body, she hated to think of what him sucking anything else could do. Or did she?
Startled by her train of thought, she quickly pulled her hands away from his face and behind her, worrying her bottom lip nervously. Endymion almost smiled at her apparent innocence, she could see it in his eyes, but he refrained from doing so. She was glad that his smile lost, otherwise she might begin thinking of him as a human being. She attempted to move away. Move her head at least.
He, knowing the moment was lost, immediately sought to recover it by snaking his hand up through her hair and holding her head immobile, staring steadily at him. "Don't look away." He said softly, threading his fingers through her silken strands. The lilting quality of his voice held her powerless. She could not resist him even if she wanted to. His hand massaged her skull, relieving tension she had not been aware of, melting her bones, her legs turning to jelly. She did not think she could stand anymore and he knew it, thus allowing him to manoeuvre her onto him. She found herself straddling his lap, each leg to either side of him.
As if that was not enough, he pulled her even closer so that her chest was pressed intimately against the broadness of his, his arousal nestled neatly within the notch of her thighs. Her eyes flared in alarm and an unknown amount of swift desire. She gasped in shock at their bodies touching. She went rigid, hands flying up to his chest in an attempt to push herself off. To her astonishment and subconscious delight, he simply prevented that movement by wrapping his arms more firmly around her, stifling any means of escape.
In a panic she pushed more forcefully against him, more belligerent, more defensive than before. She wanted to strike him, bite him since pushing did not seem to work, but that may have resulted in a more hazardous conclusion. Particularly on her part. He responded exactly the same way, except more gently, crooning softly to her, trying to make her relax against him.
"Don't fight me." He continued tenderly, stroking her hair with his right hand, curling his left arm more securely around her. Her struggles ceased temporarily, slowing down until the fight leaked out of her muscles and she all but melted against him in a weak surrender. It occurred to her that straddling a man was not the best way to discourage his attention, nor flatten her own interest.
"Don't fight this." He whispered softly into her hair once her struggles had faded. Her hands rested between their chests, fingers splayed out instead of clenched. Their groins touching; her legs still bent at the knees to either side of him; her breath slightly heaving from the effort of her resistance; her eyes closed at his soothing.
A sort of despair came into her eyes. A lingering sadness at the loss of a history of an embittered hatred of males. Princes to be more precise. And yet, with that loss of self she found a new sensation. One she had never experienced before, and yet one she came to anticipate. This feeling she only ever felt when she was with him. So in replace of that despair came a sense of vulnerable wonder at what this foreign emotion could evoke in her. What it may allow her to experience.
With that leading thought in her mind she slowly raised her head and stared into his eyes which held unconcealed longing. Her gaze dropped to his lips and she felt the desire flood into her senses. Her eyes widened with the thrill of the sensation. Her face lit up at the discovery of these feelings. And she found just letting them overcome her and enjoying them was much more pleasurable than fighting them. She wanted Endymion to show her more. How to accept and respond in kind.
Her head raised so she could face him squarely. As if he knew her inner transition, he stayed still, allowing her to have some control over the situation. His eyes stayed directed at her lips, awaiting contact. Shifting in discomfort, his hands pushed her hips down, anchoring their groins closer. There, much better.
This movement sparked an intense heat to liquefy and pool at the bottom of her stomach, increasing every touch, every connection between them tenfold. Uncertainty swamped her features at the swift intensity of emotions. Her brow creased in confusion and she became unsure of her position in all of this. Perhaps she was going a little too fast.
Endymion watched all this flicker over her face, understanding what was happening. "Easy now." He said lightly, gently, easing her into the motions, stroking, calming with his hands. His eyes were a scorching blue. The skin of his cheekbones and jaw pulled tight, confirmation to the strength of his desire. This showed her how much of an effort it took for him to allow her to set her own pace. A few simple strokes would be enough to push him over the edge, but he held back, willing her to run the show. Grateful for this and somewhat stunned by his apparent compliance, she embarked further in discovering what else sparked that fire in their bodies.
Seeing the tightness in his features, her hands drifted up to his face again, smoothing back the skin. Her hands then travelled up to his hair, pushing back the dark strands, sinking back down to end at his lips once more. Then idly drifting down his chin, skimming the length of his throat. She looked into his eyes. They seemed to take on a more relaxed appearance but it was strained. Satisfied with that result, she steadied her hands upon his solid shoulders, and once more ground herself down upon his arousal, watching his face as she did so. As anticipated, the same flutter and sparks flew through her body. She happily witnessed the deep rumble forming in the back of his throat and erupting on a low groan. His eyes flickered with the pleasure.
A smile of wonder spread across her face. Delight in her newfound sensual power shyly bloomed inside her. His eyes snapped up to her and the look he gave promised retribution. Not yet though, she thought pleasantly, knowing it was not his turn. "You like that." Her words more a statement than a question, excited by the glint in his eyes.
"Yeah." He growled, his features tense. His hands tightened their grip on her hips and then easing once more, remembering his unspoken promise allowing her to explore her fill.
She subconsciously perceived this act with glee, but primarily concentrated on what else made him growl. So, completely of its own accord, her hips ground down on him again, eliciting the thrill at the movement and once more extracting that sexy groan from Endymion. His fingers dug into the skin at her hips, not painfully, but not gently either. His expression was untamed.
"If you want this to last any longer, I suggest you not do that again." He snarled softly, nostrils flaring with each intake of breath.
The smile she gave him was teasing and at that realisation, Endymion scowled. Then, his eyes only giving her a ghost of a warning, his hand twisted up and settled on her breast. His thumb giving a deliberate sweep over the nipple.
Serenity's eyes widened and she gasped sharply at the electric current that ran through her body with the action. "Two can play at that game." He affirmed quite simply, smirking at the look on her face.
Delighting in the stimulation of his hand her eyes narrowed and she gave another undulating thrust of the hips, making his own eyes widen with surprise. This movement made her rub against his hand slightly and the simultaneous response was delicious. Her eyes snapped open, staring into is. She sucked in a breath on a gasp and released it with a shuddering, "Wow."
Endymion's remaining hand on her hip curled around to the small of her back, fetching her solidly up against him. Groin on groin, chest to chest, foreheads touching. He closed his eyes inhaling and then letting out his breath on a throaty moan. "Seconded."
Her hands drifted back up to his hair while the prince's second hand settled beneath her armpit, thumb leisurely stroking the side of her breast. Her pink tongue darted out to lick her lips as she stared into his eyes. Slowly, hesitantly almost, she leaned down and touched her lips to his. It was only a fleeting contact, a brush of acquaintance laced with a tempting hint of taste. They held for a few seconds, then she raised her head.
Receiving no unpleasant feelings, she lowered her head once more. This time, Endymion participated, curling his hand within her silken hair, holding her head in place. The kiss seemed to last forever. Tame yet strained. Tender in their pressure, just a rubbing, shaping of lips, awaiting the initiation of more. She had not expected such accommodating consideration from him. Shyly, Serenity's tongue licked his upper lip, seeking for more. At the motion, the prince groaned deep and slipped his tongue into her mouth, not thrusting deep but inviting her to taste him.
The shimmering pleasure she felt bolted through her body , zapping the nerves and leaving her boneless. With that feeling, she tentatively accepted the offer and sucked lightly at his tongue. Instantly a shudder ran through his body and the hand at the nape of her neck tightened slightly. Thrilled at this, she repeated the action, this time eliciting a groan from him, a deep sound that reverberated through his chest, sending the vibrations on to her own.
Her arms wrapped more tightly around his neck, shifting herself closer, rubbing their groins together. He suddenly took hold of her hips and released her mouth, pushing her somewhat away. She blinked at him, her eyes languid and dazed, as if she were a little unsure as to what happened.
Leaning forward slightly he gave her a soft peck on the lips. "I think we shall have to finish this later." He stated softly, his skin was flushed, and pulled taut across his cheekbones.
She shook her head in confusion, uncertainty entering her expression. "What's the matter?" She asked cautiously, fearing she did something wrong.
"It is nothing like that, princess." He assured her as if reading her mind, stroking her hair back from her brow. "It is just..." He trailed off slightly, looking towards the door.
Slowly she glanced over her shoulder and then back at him again. "It is just what?"
Endymion looked up at her and winked, "Knock, knock."
Serenity shot up in bed jerking awake. Eyes wide and mouth agape. Her eyes darted around the room, consciously noting it was still daylight, also aware of the position she lay on the bed: sideways.
"Oh my god." She mumbled in shock. That was a dream? She glanced around her once more, mindful that she was indeed alone in her room and that she had been only dreaming. Her skin was sticky with sweat, and she could hear her own breathing, coming hard and fast at first then gradually slowing as her heartbeat settled into its normal pace. Then, groaning in amazement she flopped back down onto her bed again. She focussed on the ceiling.
The upside down ceiling.
She bolted up from the bed once again. Frightened she sat stiff. Impossible, just impossible. It was just a dream. Just a -
Knock, knock, knock.
"What!?" She shrieked thinly, quietly to herself, open-mouthed as she stared at the door in wide-eyed horror. Irrationally and because it was the only thing she could think of doing at the moment, she pinched herself on the arm.
"Ouch." Ok, that did not appear to do anything but give her a sore arm. Scowling at her stupidity in believing the cliche method, she rubbed the afflicted area and sat rigid as she stared at the door. This could not be happening, it was just a dream. She looked down at herself, and sighed in relief. She was wearing a dress. The same lavender dress she wore earlier. Not the clothes in her dream. So this was just a coincidence.
Knock, knock, knock.
She started at the sound. But there was no harm in sitting here and waiting until the person left. They would think she was either not here or asleep. Which was true. So there.
"Princess Serenity?" Called a female voice through the door. "Are you there?"
Serenity's face lit up with happiness at the sound. So it was not him. Elated and strangely exhausted, she got to her feet, walked to the door and opened it.
**************************************************************************** *********
"So?" Kunzite asked over the sound of the bokkens clashing together.
"So?" Endymion replied, repeating the move. The impact from the strike jarred through its handle, vibrating through the arms of its holder. They were finely crafted bokkens, made from the strongest of trees, carved beautifully to perfection. The training equipment they used belonged to the Moon. The two men were excited at the prospect of being allowed to practise any foreign fighting tools. Should they be forced into battle on any particular planet, they would not want to be stuck with battle gear they did not know how to use. Should such occasion arise on the Moon, they would now be prepared.
"What's up?" Kunzite asked, pivoting around and efficiently attacking Endymion's right, which was just as efficiently blocked.
It seemed to be a routine ritual when either one of them, or both, had something to get off their chests. An aggressive, physical outlet, bar sex...with women... to release their frustrations. Virtually the average person's version of conversation. If it was not a technique of training, teaching and learning new moves, it was their way of saying they had something on their minds. Typical macho bonding minus alcohol and women.
This "discussion" was initiated by Endymion.
"Nothing much. Yourself?" His response was polite and friendly, well, as friendly as he could get while nearly knocking Kunzite to the ground, yet not pushing hard enough allowing him to regain his balance and block effectively.
"Same here."
The formalness of the day over and done with, the introduction to the conversation all sorted out, they properly began the fight. Forcefully attacking hard, defending for the safety of their bodies, as if their lives depended on it. A normal fight for the two of them otherwise. Both use to each others strengths, and well aware of their opposing weaknesses. They had their own barriers and rules initialised to their fights, which were not to be broken. But that did not withhold much. Aside from changing their opponents sex and killing them, everything else, essentially was allowed.
Yet, Kunzite had not seen Endymion fight him so violently before. There was usually some type of jovial civility between them, but today, the prince had something serious on his mind. They were both stripped to the waist, adorning loose, drawstring pants. Endymion in black, Kunzite in white, matching his braided pearl coloured hair. The physical exertion of this fight had them quickly break into a light sweat.
"Is it your father?" Kunzite questioned as he blocked an attempt to be disarmed.
"No."
"Your lovely step-mother?" He asked with a grin, attacking and defending vigorously.
The prince chuckled with scorn. Although the thought of her normally left a bitter taste in his mouth, recalling what happened between them only a few hours ago, almost brought up bile in the back of his throat. Far be it for him to think that any sort of sexual act performed on him by a beautiful woman, no matter how deranged, was disgusting, but the apparent beauty being Vienna made him feel sick to his stomach.
He almost felt inclined to feel guilty of tainting himself by being with her. A woman willing to be with him and help soothe any 'hard' feelings was always a welcome intrusion and he normally left with no ill-feelings and a revived libido. Fed and ready for more. This time though, a feeling of remorse and guilt nagged at his brain and he wanted it to go away. Make it disappear, for he feared he knew what, or who as the case may be, was causing it.
"God no, although she could do with a muzzle." Quite literally, he added silently, responding to Kunzite's question.
"Agreed." The general replied with a grimace, not being fast enough to guard his left, copping a blow from the prince. He backed up a little, promptly assessing the damage and then preparing for Round Two. While doing so, he consciously wondered what could be causing the prince's frustration. What or who could possibly make the prince fight as if he had not been laid in mon -
Kunzite stopped his attacks as his thoughts all pointed to the answer. His eyes widened in surprised delight at the concept, that all this aggression, all these near killing blows was due to pent up sexual frustration. And not just over any particular body, but -
"Serenity." He said aloud. The reaction he received was instantaneous, a violent would be head rolling attack had the general not the common sense to expect it and duck. Instead of worrying that he was almost actually killed, or dangerously paralysed, his amusement peaked and erupted into a bark of laughter. At that he was forced to defend himself from Endymion's following powerful attacks, that would otherwise result in a change of gender.
This however did not allow his amusement to subside. Seeing the aggression behind each blow only increased it. All this over a woman...no, a girl. A not yet sixteen year old girl. A spoilt little chit of a princess who ate up and spat out prince's for a hobby. Whose beauty spellbound and captured men's hearts or/and other muscles with a simple glance, then destroyed them in only a matter of minutes.
And the one man, prince, irresistible to all woman far and wide; who also enjoyed the leisurely sport of destroying hearts and never gave women a second thought, was frustrated and angered to a boiling physical rage over this particular female. This was too good to be true. An impossibility made possible. Endymion never had trouble with women. Never, with a capital 'N' in bold and italicised. They simply flocked to him like moths to a deadly flame, unprepared for the heat and all he needed to do was snap his fingers and they were on their backs before you could say 'easy'. They came, they saw, they died a miserable, painful burning. Some played the chase, but never lasted long. They could never withhold his interest if they did, which was never, and once they succumbed, the prince got bored. He made the rules, he played the game and he won. Every time. Simple.
Now...to see Endymion like this, violently unleashing his anger and frustration as so over a female, a princess, was the most entertaining thing he had seen in a while. And a very, very wonderful opportunity for Kunzite to avoid playing with.
"So, anything interesting happen today?" He asked innocently, his eyes gleeful as they continued their usual ritual of fighting and withholding a conversation simultaneously.
"No." Was the curt grunt of a reply issued from Endymion.
"Nothing?"
Endymion's expression turned dark as he drove more force behind his attack, efficiently counter-attacked by Kunzite. "Nothing." He answered shortly.
The brave general prodded the beast again. "Nothing at all?"
"God, you are like a broken record." Endymion snarled irritably.
"I am just making sure." Kunzite answered wearing a mask of innocence, hands raised in surrender. They mutually decided to take a break, walking over to the small table and resting their weapons on it. The white-haired general picked up a towel and wiped his face and chest of sweat.
"These bokkens are good. Perfect weight, great strength." Endymion started, an attempt at side-tracking his friend from the coming interrogation.
"No, no." Kunzite countered with a grin, as expected. "You are not changing the subject with me, son."
The prince rolled his eyes in annoyance, drinking from the cup sitting on the table, while at the same time dabbing at the drops of sweat on his forehead. "What subject is that?" He asked nonchalantly after he had finished his drink.
"Oh, the weather. What do you think?" Kunzite stated abruptly. "I want all the exceptional details of how badly the delectable little princess burned you." He finished confidently, leaning back against the table, arms crossed over his chest.
Endymion scowled at his friend, before picking his bokken up once more. "Let's go again." Ignoring the questions entirely.
Kunzite narrowed his eyes in displeasure. And then smirked, "Shit! How bad was it?"
Endymion threw the wooden weapon from hand to hand, gripping it with his left, then throwing it back to his right again. His thoughts, no matter how hard he fought it kept on drifting back to earlier that morning. Before Kunzite sought him out while he was brooding in his room, before Vienna released the pressure from his groin with her talented mouth, before the news of Daemon, back to where he could still recall the strength in which Serenity's thighs were wrapped around his hips.
He closed his eyes in distant misery. He did not need this now. Especially when he could feel Kunzite ready to shove it back down his throat with scornful glee. All he wanted to do, was fight him, preferably hurt him in the process, unleash all his pent up frustration, and go back to life as it was before. Before the tempting embodiment that was the princess. Before her drugging kisses and all too enticing body. Before the taste of her mouth, skin; feel of her hair, the silkiness he imagined trailing down his chest, down to his naval before she dipped her head to -
He groaned aloud, looking up to find his general, ex-best friend, grinning as if he had a damn coat hanger rammed in his mouth. Endymion's mood lightened slightly at the idea of happily making that happen. Remembering Kunzite's question, he sighed heavily before answering. "Bad."
"Are you serious?" The general's eyes lit with great amusement and genuine surprise. He had suspected it, anticipated it, but did not think it ever possible.
Endymion smirked, glad that he would have this chance to douse his friend's immediate happy expectations. "Bad in a good way." He answered, his darkened mood pleasantly taking in the confusion he was causing.
"Sounds intriguing." Kunzite answered, confused but still vaguely amused at the prospect. "Do explain."
"What is to explain?" Endymion tried, obviously failing when Kunzite's expression became one of maintaining determination as a reply. His irritated mood darkened once more at having to relinquish the events of that day and put them up for his friend to gloatingly analyse. Yet, it seemed a notion which was unescapable.
"A lot by the sounds of things."
"Like your loss of brain?" He countered sardonically.
Kunzite smirked. "Humour me."
Endymion sighed in annoyance. His mind heedlessly pushed through to the source of all his surliness. Of course the answer was there, unwanted but as clear as a sunny day. A spoilt little brat of a girl, princess whom was only introduced to him through a forced marriage attempt and a ridiculous bet. He enjoyed the challenge she represented. That was always a welcomed prospect, because sooner or later, he prevailed, adding another victory to his growing collection. In this case, it would be two: Serenity and Mina.
Mina, whose radiance blinded his best friend without effort. The perception was not lost on him either. She was truly and unfailingly beautiful. Her sunlight blonde hair and slim long legs and the thought of those legs wrapped around him was enough to make any man's heart stop. With the added thought that he was yet to experience those legs, made this bet, this challenge all the more enticing. Not that he would actually try for her. He was not that heartless. Not yet anyway. He was not going to take the love of his best friend's life, although it was fun to goad him. But that did not mean he would lose their bet either.
So he was initially back to square one. Throughout that deep contemplation, he had not accomplished any new form of conclusion. Which was probably due to him not actually thinking of the main source of the problem: the princess. Back to the silver-haired beauty. Back to the beast. His mind stubbornly refused to delve any further.
"Hey?" Kunzite said, knocking his fist on the side of Endymion's head. "Anybody in there?" Scowling, the prince swiped at his friend's hand, pushing him away.
"Piss off." He growled annoyed; annoyed with his friend and himself.
"It IS alive." The white-haired general stated, smirking at his enraged friend. He still could not get over the idea that Endymion was this antsy over a girl. Watching him squirm and evade all of his questions was absolutely priceless. Yet curiosity won over mocking, so he pushed some more, risking his head for explanations, literally. "So, can I get my new sword gift wrapped?"
Endymion regarded his friend with amusement, "You can get the sword up your ass if you like."
Kunzite chuckled, picking his bokken up from the table, retaining the feel for the wood once again before answering. "Sounds kinky." Pushing himself away from the table, he followed the prince onto the fighting mat, preparing for their second battle. "You are not going to answer my questions are you?" He said seemingly unfulfilled, eyeing his elusive friend with dismay. He may not get explanations from the horses mouth, so to speak, but luckily for him, it was entirely readable from Endymion's eyes. And the frustration liberated through their training battles was enough for him to eventually expect answers. And expect one hell of an interesting story.
"No. I'm not." And with that, the prince brought his bokken down upon Kunzite.
**************************************************************************** *********
"Queen Vienna." Serenity said in surprise. She was shocked to see the young queen in her part of the castle, let alone in her doorway. Anyhow, the dream, the Dreaded Dream as she had quickly likened to titling it, was at the forefront of her mind at the moment, so this was a welcome intrusion. The less time she had to think about it, the better.
"Princess." The queen greeted tightly. She was rattled by how truly stunning the young girl was. Acutely noticing that none could compare. Not even her, and that caused fury to creep through her skin. If anybody were to win the prince from her, it would be this slip of a girl. Her beauty was the only thing going for her however, Vienna thought smugly, apart from that she was surely a simple pushover.
Serenity became confused at the short silence. "Is there something I can help you with?" She asked politely, curious to her appearance. She was usually a person who led with her gut instincts, who perceived and acted off a person's first impressions, and the feeling she was receiving from the Earth's queen was a sense of foreboding. The discomfort she felt was a niggling sensation at the back of her mind, slowly pushing its way through as she was surveyed under Vienna's critical gaze. Her first instinct was screaming at her to slam the door on her cold face and hide under the blankets. And for the life of her, she could not figure out why.
She shook it off as some insane after-effect caused by the staggering events of her dream and the proceedings leading up to now. Satisfied with that answer, she gave Queen Vienna the benefit of the doubt.
"May I come in?" She asked politely, not even waiting for a response before stalking in confidently.
Amused at the notion that perhaps some events of her dream were a prediction after all, yet disallowing herself to think of anything beyond that. Should her mind wander along other actions in her dream, her incredibly vivid dream, pondering over its meaning, she may not be able to hold an understandable, let alone polite conversation.
"Sure." She replied anyway, knowing that she was not exactly given a choice in the matter.
Queen Vienna's gaze lighted on several objects of the princess' room. Her balcony, the adjoining bathroom, wardrobes and dressers , then finally taking in the bed with the beginnings of a sneer darkening her beautiful face. Has he been there? She wondered gravely. Serenity was oblivious to all this, subtly sneaking glances outside in the hallway, seeking an unknown distraction. She could not avoid the feeling of caution looming with Vienna's appearance.
"It is hard being the step-mother to such a stubborn young prince." She stated abruptly, still facing the bed, her back to the princess.
Serenity was startled at the topic of conversation. Was this the symbolic white hat through the door as a peace offering? Making no effort to hide it this time, she poked her head out the door and scanned the hallway for any sign of the scoundrel prince. If this was his idea of some sort of joke, some sort of ploy to pry information from her, she would definitely kill him this time. Or tear off his genitals. Hmm...that held merit. Seeing no sign of him she turned back to the queen with eyes narrowed.
"Did he send you here?" She asked suspiciously, watching as Vienna turned quickly in amusement.
"No, my dear." She answered with a smirk, purposely belittling the princess with her title. "Nobody sends me anywhere." She finished quite firmly, staring down her nose with disparagement.
"Oh." Serenity admonished, chastising herself for allowing him to enter her thoughts. Again. The damn man not only took over her body and dominated her dreams, he was her every second thought. Scowling in anger she glanced up to see the queen making a luxury of her bed. She sat down and glided her hands over the silkiness of Serenity's covering slip. Anger swiftly turning to amusement, she bit back a laugh.
Stretching out backwards, resting herself on her elbows she eyed the princess with hidden scorn. "He is handsome is he not?" She asked with a tight smile, eyes distant.
Startled and confused at her question, she replied accordingly. "I'm sorry?"
"The prince." The queen stated, sitting back up so she was only leaning on her hands. Sensuality displayed through every action. "Endymion." She added, tasting his name with relish, licking her lips before finishing, "Is he not handsome?"
Serenity looked around the room as if seeking help before frowning with disbelief. Was she for real? Why did everyone she talk to, everything she do, evolve around him. As if there was nothing better to talk about. Like, a nice change of topic to... animals...where she tackled him into the most seductive kiss she had ever experienced in her entire life...Damn it! Shaking her head of those distracting thoughts, she reverted back to her apparently normal self before responding.
"Ok." The word lingered, sounding as if it were more of a question than an answer.
"Oh come on, princess. You must admit he has a sort of dangerous magnetism to him. He is definitely the most gorgeous man I have ever encountered. I am sure you would agree." She confirmed disbelievingly. "Why, if I myself were younger, I would definitely had made a play for him." She ended with a secret little smile.
Serenity did not doubt it. Thoroughly amused yet hiding her desire to smile she countered with, "But you love his father."
Queen Vienna's eyes widened a little, struck out of her daydream and appraisal of the prince. She sat rigid, and answering indignantly, "Well of course."
Of course. Serenity's eyes shone with rampant glee. If only Mina were here to hear this. Hell, if only Endymion were here to hear this. It would obviously swell his head, but it would be oh so fun to share the amusement. She could not fathom for the life of her what Vienna had actually come in here to say. If she indeed did intend to stand in her own room and spout epithets of all Endymion's many attractive qualities, she would hurl herself over the balcony.
As it appeared though, the young queen seemed to collect herself and stood. Seemingly flustered by the princess' reproval of her she straightened incensed. "Yes well, I just came to say that it would be best if you stayed away from him." Vienna had not actually intended to phrase her warnings as such, but she had come here expecting to find an enamoured princess and instead received an indifferent response to the princes' charm, of which he had many. She had come here expecting to break a smitten young girl's heart by listing numerous impossibilities to why they could never be. She anticipated toying with her emotions and then destroying them.
Unfortunately, that all seemed an improbability. Not only was the princess the least perturbed, nor was she inclined to participate in admiring Endymion's most desirable traits, she looked almost as if she were about to laugh at her. Vienna was enraged at the notion. Nobody, nobody laughed at her. Especially some snot-nosed brat of a girl who would not know a man if he broke her pretty little neck.
Serenity stared humorously surprised. Vienna was actually warning her to do something she had already intended anyway. She smothered her giggle with a cough. She knew her reasons for wanting to avoid the prince at all costs, but she wanted to hear what Vienna recommended. It is so unfair, she thought despairingly, that I can not share this hilarity with somebody else.
"Why is that?" Innocence masking her features.
The young queen composed herself, attempting control in the situation taken out of her hands. "I am just looking out for you, my dear, as one woman to another." She regretted she did not play the empathy card sooner.
"It appears one of us is at a misunderstanding." Serenity tried, attempting to draw out Vienna's point.
"All I am trying to say is, do not get your hopes up." Vienna almost sneered, yet withdrawing her resentment and transforming it into a facade of maternal advice. "Endymion is not very stable when it comes to relationships. Practically night after night he brings home different women and he is very ruthless in his dismissals."
Serenity almost snorted at the prospect. Did Vienna think she was stupid? Did she actually think that after all she had been through with different men, different princes she would give her heart to this one?
"I just did not want you falling in love with him." It appeared it was not so utterly unthinkable. Vienna stalked closer towards Serenity, lioness intimidating unsuspecting prey. Her whole persona exuded a cold sensuality. It was as if she employed it to overshadow her opponent. Overwhelming her into believing she could not compare.
Serenity however was not amused. No, that was a lie, she was greatly amused. What she was not, was interested. She almost looked bored at the ploy. "Is that what you came here to tell me?" She asked lazily.
This time Vienna's contempt displayed across her features near startling Serenity with the intensity of her hatred. "I came here to warn you that should you even attempt to make a play at the prince, you will only get your heart broken. He will not change in his ways, he will continuously stroll through life taking pleasures with whomever he desires, and will not commit to just one person." Walking past a smirking Serenity, she turned at the door. "I strongly suggest you leave him," 'to me', she almost finished, but caught herself in time, "alone. For that is the only conclusion you shall see." Before she could stroll on out the door Serenity's words stopped her.
"What makes you think I have not already captured his attentions?" Vienna turned, her glare one which could kill. Was this little girl challenging her? Did she really think she could take her Endymion? Did the little idiot have a death wish? "What makes you think we have not already...explored...certain possibilities?" She asked, subtly implying any physical encounters between them. She wanted to hit herself for what she was suggesting, as if she were flaunting those instances that she desired to forget. But when this queen came in here, telling her what she should be doing, or not doing as was the case, she could not help herself. One queen mother giving her orders about her love life was one too many.
Vienna wanted to kill her. Quite strongly, this need to destroy was almost overwhelming. Luckily she contained the urge, not letting the bitch get the best of her. "Believe me princess, I know, personally, that you are not the only one whom Endymion gets to play with." She said quietly, sneer becoming a smirk of victory when she watched amusement in Serenity's eyes, flicker to confusion, then a certain form of revulsion. It was just in her eyes of course, those which were far easier to read than the rest of her features. They were moulded into stone.
The princes cleared her throat. "I appreciate your concern Queen Vienna, but you have no need to trouble yourself over the matters of my heart. I guarantee you it is safe, and in its rightful place." She countered, her voice husky. Her blue eyes dark.
Vienna eyed the princess cautiously, confirming that she did indeed accomplish her intentions and then with a hidden smile of satisfaction she bowed her head. "Very well." And with that, she walked away, leaving the princess to contemplate things further within the privacy of her room, her mind cluttered with tainted dreams.