Hey everyone! I don't have much to say this time around. Thanks once again to Moon's Rose for the review, constructive criticism or even just a note to say I did okay is what keeps me going. I got this chapter out as quickly as I could…internet issues. Well, I'm going to be quiet now and let you continue on. Enjoy!
Oh by the way:
Darien Shields: 21 years old
Serena Tuskino: 17 years old
Kara Tuskino: 17 years old
Mina White: 17 years old
Kane Harrison: 21 years old
Lita Kino: 17 years old
Nathaniel (Nathan) Carmichael: 21 years old
Raye Hino: 17 years old
Jason McAllister: 21 years old
Ami Anderson: 17 years old
Zachary (Zach) Parker: 21 years old
Michiru Kaiou: 20 years old
Haruka Ten'ou: 20 years old
Setsuna Meiou: 20 years old
Hotaru Tomoe: 14 years old
She could see them, battered and weary. Mars and Jupiter were already down. Then, like a scene from her nightmares, she watched as Tuxedo Mask crumbled and Venus became the sole focus of the monster.
"No! You can't hurt them!" she cried. All her protective instincts surging forward, while all she could do was watch. Venus continued to throw attacks, but the creature moved like lightening, coming up from behind and latching on. The sight was too much for her to take. Breaking past the barrier keeping her from helping she moved.
In her hand was a glaive, which she used to quickly slice at the creature. And she was once again helpless and only able to observe. But as the monster approached the unsuspecting Mercury, she couldn't help but scream, "Watch out!"
Straining to reach the power of the crystal, she shattered what remained of the barrier keeping her separated from it and the crystal reacted, dusting the creature and healing her friends.
Serena sat up with a gasp. "It wasn't real. It was only a dream." Taking soothing breathes, she began to calm herself as she thought, there is no way I could have actually seen that. For one, I no longer have my powers, and even, if by some slight chance I was able to break through the barriers I placed regardless, then…
Knock. Knock. Knock.
"Come in!" the door swung open to reveal two women in maid outfits. Stepping forward, the smaller one announced, "Miss, your uncle is waiting in the kitchen dining room."
Then the other stepped forward and added, "And Mr. Otori called. Your costume for the ball tonight is ready."
"Thank you. Tell my uncle I will be down presently." At her words, the two maids disappeared, closing the doors gently behind them.
Getting out of bed, Serena went to open the floor to ceiling terrace windows, throwing back the silver-gray velvet and letting in the morning light. Staring at the mansions' grounds, she wondered how things were going back in Tokyo.
Fifteen minutes later, she descended from the second story to the main floor. Following her nose she quickly made her way to the food.
Already seated, upon her entrance, her uncle rose, giving a bow as he proclaimed, "My princess, ruler of my heart, you look beautiful this morning."
Smiling in delight, Serena reciprocated by saying, "My most gracious and humble thanks Steward. How are the preparations for my homecoming ball unfolding?"
"My Lady, it shall be the most talked about event this year! Perchance you will find a Prince tonight? One that may one day rule by your side?"
The image of a dark haired, blue-eyed Prince went through her mind, bringing a bittersweet emotion, which she covered by playing along. Giggling, she ended the game and replied, "I have no intention of settling down anytime soon. And certainly not with any of your Hollywood Princes."
"Ah Sere. You always did go your own way." He paused, taking a careful breath before saying, "What happened in Tokyo darling? You haven't been back here since…Well, since the school. You've visited me when I was in Japan, in the Islands, everywhere but here. A month and a half ago I promised myself I wouldn't pry, and just enjoy your being here, but…I can't stand seeing you hurt, and you don't run away. The fact that you're here worries me."
Serena sat stunned, absorbing the impact of his words. Did I run away?
Seeing her shock, her uncle tried to lighten the atmosphere. "Hey kiddo. You don't have to say anything right now. When you're ready to talk, I'll be here to listen. In the meantime, are you ready for tonight?"
Serena pulled herself out of thought and smiled at her uncle in gratitude before responding. "My costume is finished. I just need to pick it up, as well as any accessories today. Michiru and Haruka are going with me."
"Here," he said, reaching for his wallet. "Take my card. Whatever you want, go ahead and get."
"Thanks uncle!" she cried as she gave him a big hug, before heading for the front door.
"Hey Jase! You going to Tuskino's party tonight?" A man with long white hair held in a ponytail asked as he made breakfast.
"Uhhh…"The man laying on the couch moaned as he flipped over, staring owlishly at the ceiling.
Glancing toward the living room, Kane looked at his friend and laughed. "Confused? You fell asleep during the meeting again. Me, Nate and Zach are thinking of making you sit in a tub, so that if you fall asleep we can just pour water on you."
Getting to his feet, Jason glared good-naturedly at his long time friend. "You pour water on me good buddy and you'll find your pride and joy cut off!"
"Oh no! Not my hair!"(AN: Did you think it was something else?: D) Kane said in mock horror. "You always say that. But really, are you going to the Halloween ball?"
"The masque? Yeah, actually I was thinking about it. What about you guys?"
"Nate's already on his way to the desert with his precious telescope. Zach is busy managing our money, and I don't have a date."
"Well neither do I. My plan is to find one there and enjoy myself."
"No, I'm going to stay here and listen to a couple of those new tapes we got."
"Suit yourself."
It's odd to think how short a time I've been here. And how long it's been since I lived here. And yet I feel completely comfortable, despite the past. Could it be because I'm no longer that scared little girl? Because I have my friends here? Well either way, having Michiru and Haruka around makes things easier for me. Unfortunately, the grapevine is still buzzing about how we all met…
(Four weeks before)
"Sere, I want to take you somewhere."
"Where uncle?" she asked, excited at the prospect of going out. The past two weeks had been healing, but excruciatingly boring.
"It's a surprise. Let's go."
An hour later they pulled up to an impromptu racing ring outside the city limits A flash of anticipation went though her. Somewhere around here her friend was waiting.
They settled in to watch the races. The day was hot and ice cold water did much to quench not only their thirst, but soothing throats that were sore from cheering.
Presently Serena got up and headed for the restroom. The noise and press of people was incredible. On her way back to her seat, she was knocked over. People were running to the track. From their yells, a crash had occurred. Hoping she didn't get trampled, Serena curled against a wall, trying to stay out of the way.
Strong arms lifted her up, blocking her from the jostling crowd. Looking up at her rescuer, joy filled her. Haruka Ten'ou, also known as Sailor Uranus had arrived.
Making their way back to the stands, Serena could hardly contain her joy. "I'm so happy you're here!" These past two weeks have been so dull…"
"Is that right? Well rest assured, they won't be for long."
"Where's Michiru? Will she be here soon?"
"As a matter of fact, how would you feel about going to a concert?"
"Ohhhh…I would love to!" her eyes widened "But what about uncle? How are we going to explain this?"
"I have and idea…" She leaned in to tell Serena all about it.
Ten minutes later, Serena was back at her seat. The races were over shortly thereafter and as they made their way out to the car, she casually mentioned to her uncle, "I met that racer Haruka Ten'ou today."
"What!" he screeched, stopping to stare at his beloved niece who was looking at him so innocently. "The Haruka Ten'ou?"
"Yep. I got knocked over and Haruka rescued me."
"You're on a first name basis?"
"Well of course. Anyone you owe a favor should be on a first name with you."
"I see…What did you talk about?"
"Well Haruka mentioned something about going to dinner with me…"Her uncle's face turned purple at the thought of any man taking his little girl out. Sensing what was on his mind, Serena hastened to reassure him. "Oh don't look like that. There's nothing going on between us. Besides, Haruka is 1) in love with someone else, and 2) not my type since she isn't male."
"But he's…Wait! She?"
"Oh! So you didn't know? Haruka was laughed off the track as a female so now she plays up the fact that most people mistake her for a "pretty" boy when she wears male clothing."
"What?!?!?"
"It's okay uncle. It was an honest mistake."
By the time they reached the house, her uncle was reduced to sputtering. Taking that as acceptance, Serena went to bed glad that things were changing.
The following week was dominated by outings with Haruka. Laughter, conversation and confidences were exchanged as the bond of friend to friend grew alongside that of liege and lady.
Michiru joined them as her tour ended with a final performance in L.A., where to the public eye, she first became acquainted with the most speculated about couple in weeks. Their fast friendship was soon the newest headliner for a long time.
Honk!
The sound of a horn shook Serena out of her reverie. Moving past the light, she parked the car and headed to the shop where she was meeting the others.
The store was beautiful. One of a kind costumes and dresses were on display in the windows and an elegant yet simple waiting/runway area filled most of the front room. Waiting for her were Haruka and Michiru.
"Sere, hurry up! You're such a slow poke!"
Serena gasped in delight. They had decided to all dress as courtiers, each wearing the colors of their respective home planets. (A/N: as if they would do any differently…) Michiru was swathed in a sea foam blue- green dress that hugged her breasts and waist before falling gently to the ground. Haruka, unwilling to compromise her fake identity, wore the traditional garb of the Royal Guards of Uranus.
"Are you going to stare at them all day, or will you try on your own?" came a disgruntled voice. Serena, started, turning to see Mr. Otori.
Smiling, she replied, "By all means, show me what wonders you have done." Michiru and Haruka returned to the dressing room to change back into their everyday clothes while Mr. Otori brought out the dress.
Taking it into the back, Serena put it on and studied herself in the mirrors. The design was based loosely on the dress she had worn during the Silver Millennium. Very Loosely. The color of the fabric was of course white, but unlike the innocent feel of the original dress, this was provocative. The front had the same look, except the top of the neckline came to a point that separated to encircle the neck. The silver embroidery curled around her like the beads once had, climbing vines covering the bodice. The back plunged to her waistline, finishing with more embroidery.
Stepping out onto the runway, Serena watched the reactions of her friends. She could see them struggle to maintain their postures as the urge to kneel before their princess overwhelmed them. That and the urge to cover me up with every available coat in the vicinity… She thought wryly.
"Perfect Mr. Otori. You've captured the spirit of the design perfectly." Murmured Haruka.
"Indeed. She will be the Princess of the Moon at the ball and none will ask otherwise." Seconded Michiru.
"Thank You Mr. Otori." Serena beamed with gratitude. Placing the costume carefully in a box, the three headed for the jewelry stores. Michiru and Serena bought tiaras and earrings before they all headed back to the mansion to prepare for the ball. Soon they were decked out in all their finery and ready fro the festivities.
The party was already underway when they handed their name cards to the announcer, entering on his cry of, "The Princess of the Moon and her attendants Lady Neptune and Lord Uranus." Everyone stared in wonder at the group. Especially one man.
Who is that girl? She is so beautiful…
An hour passed as they mingled among the guests. Finally, Mr. Tuskino approached them and asked Lady Neptune to mount the stage. Picking up her violin, which had been placed there, she sat down and began to play.
Listening to her, Serna fought back tears as memories of the Silver Millennium as well as the past flooded trough her. Laughter and friendship, love and trust had once been a pillar in her life. Now, her love and her friends were lost. Unable to bear it, she made her way out to the gardens, not seeing the man who followed.
He had watched her all night, at times attempting to make his way to her, but ultimately being stopped by associates who wanted to chat. When Lady Neptune began to play he had looked for her. Instead of listening to the music, he had studied her response.
He had seen pain and sorrow in her eyes and when she went outside, he followed. The night sky was bright with stars. Feeling as though he was in a dream, he went across the bridge, past the gazebo and into a maze of mini gardens. His feet traveled left, then right, then right again, taking him deeper and deeper until he had reached the center. It was a rose garden and at it's heart was the girl.
Stepping forward, he asked, "What are you doing here Princess?" and then frowned as déjà vu hit. Why do I feel like I've said that before?
Turning, Serena's eyes widened before she regained her composure and replied, "The reawakening of memories…and all the pain and sorrow that is caused when we realize what was lost…"
Feeling that she was trying to tell him something, but not quite understanding, he asked, "Excuse me?"
"Oh nothing," You'll find out soon enough. "May I ask your name sir?"
"Of course. The name is Jason, Jason McAllister." Jadeite his mind whispered.
"I see. My name is Serena."
As she offered her hand, the unreal quality of the moment faded with a final image overlaid upon the woman in front of him, of another who had tears in her eyes…
"Pleased to meet you. What were you doing out here by yourself?" he asked, curious in spite of himself.
Serena hesitated. I don't want to trigger his memories…I don't have the power of the crystal tight now to keep him from returning to his lord out of past loyalty. Besides, although he was always the closest to me, he, like the others, were always Endymion's Generals. But what can I say? The truth?
"Serena? What's wrong?"
"Hmmm? Oh, I came out here to think…the music reminded me of a past life…"
"What happened?" Jason asked, aware that he as stepping into fragile territory.
Stall him whispered a voice. No tell him said another, the voice that brought to mind memories of the Silver Millennium and how when no one else had understood or accepted the love shared by the Prince and her, he had and become their coconspirator. Tell him, the voice urged again.
Settling for a compromise, she began, "I grew up with four girls and this guy. I was always the cheerful, dim little klutz to them, unable to ever to do anything right. So I left."
She's leaving things out…This guy…Maybe he has something more to do with this…It's obvious she cares for him a great deal... "Shall we go in?"
Making their way back through the garden maze, Jason eased the conversation away from what was obviously a very painful subject for her. And yet, that time called to him. He had a feeling that those were important to the development of the fascinating creature before him. Originally the motive had been to get to know her, and possibly build an intimate relationship. But, the time he spent getting to know her, proved to him how wrong he had been. He still wished to spend time with her, but friendship was all he felt. Gorgeous as she was, she belonged to another. He felt it in his very soul, and didn't stop to question his renitence.
Bidding each other goodnight, they promised to meet each other the next day for lunch. And so they set the trend.
"Hey Jase! Are you home?"
Rolling over, Jason reached for his clock. 7:00am it read. Sighing he sat up, ignoring the pounding on the door, he dressed, running a hand through his short blond hair and brushing his teeth. Ten minutes later, the pounding long since stopped, he opened the door.
"What was so important that you had to wake me up at 7:00 in the morning on a Sunday? You know that's when I sleep in."
"Oh don't fuss. We your loyal friends haven't seen you in a while, and decided to have breakfast and talk." Nathan announced as he walked past Jason. Behind him were the other two, Kane and Zach.
"What are you talking about? I just saw you at the studio yesterday!"
Kane glanced at the others before saying, "Well yeah, but we only talk business there. We wanted to know all about this girl you've been seeing. It's been what…"
"Twenty dates in Eighteen days!" piped up Zach. "That's mighty unusual Jase…"
"Yeah, what's going on?" Nate said, putting in his two cents as he began to cook breakfast.
Irritated by the line of questioning, he began to stonewall them, not caring that they knew it. "Nothings going on, me and Sere are just friends."
"Friends he says…"
"Like we'll believe that one."
"Believe what you like…"
"Don't worry about that, we will!"
"Serena! Serena!" Jared Tuskino called out, looking for his favorite niece. She's been out so much lately I hardly ever see her. Making his way out to the lake he stopped. Music drifted on the air, and turning the corner he saw who was singing.Cuz you are the dream That I have dreamed
Wherever you are
I want to be
Together forever
Good times and bad
Together forever
Never too sad
It was Serena. Thinking quickly, Jared made up his mind. I'll call Four Corners Recording Company. Even if she doesn't want to do it, it wouldn't hurt to get the opinion of professionals. But if she wants to…I think she would be amazing.
"Hey guys, are you busy tomorrow?" Kane asked.
"Why…?"Zach asked, as they each turned in their seats to look at him.
"Well, Old Man Tuskino has invited us to dinner. Apparently he wants our opinion on something."
"Something or someone?" came the sardonic reply. "I heard that his favorite niece has come to live with him for a time." Jase continued.
"You don't really think he would tell her he would get her a recording contract do you? Tuskino? Pit bull Tuskino? The guy who told his own son that he would be disowned is he didn't shape up Tuskino?" Zach said incredulously.
"Well you never know, I mean, she is his favorite niece…" Nate reasoned.
"Well either way, I need to know if you're free." Kane spoke. "We owe a lot to Jared, and whether or not he wants us over to push some girl on us, we should have the courtesy to go."
"I agree. Let's go." The others nodded.
"Then we're all agreed."
"Welcome!"
"Good evening Jared. How are you this fine night?"
"Oh very good Zach. Please join me out by the lake."
The five men headed out to the lake situated near the east wing of the mansion. Jase reflected on Serena. He had had to break their date to come here but he owed a lot to Jared, so much so that he would never be able to repay him.
Nearly to the well-lighted lawn surrounding the lake they all stopped. A haunting voice filled the air.
Deep in my soul
Love so strong
It takes control
Now we both know
The secrets bared
The feelings show
The small group made their way past the bushes, making their way towards the singer. The four men whose business it was to make music stars, held their breath. Before them was something they had never seen before.
Driven far apart
I make a wish
On a shooting star
There will come a day
Somewhere far away
In your arms I'll stay
My Only Love
Kane felt himself jerk in shock. The singer was ethereal in nature. Dressed like an angel, her voice induced the odd feeling of remembrance. Like fireflies, scenes like nothing he had experienced passed before his eyes. Somehow he knew that the others felt the same way. There was a feeling that something magical was happening. Something that would change their lives, or maybe, bring back to them what they had always felt was missing.
And even though you're gone
Our love will still live on
The feeling is so strong
My Only Love
My Only Love
Jason gaped in shock as the singer abruptly turned to face them. It's Serena! What is she doing here? "Serena?"
"Jason? Why are you here? I know you didn't come to see me, since you didn't know I live here." Bemused, Serena looked over the visitors. Kunzite, Nephrite and Zoicite. I knew that they were friends, but I didn't think to meet them this soon.
At her words, the four men turned to look at Jase. Stepping toward him, Jared Tuskino asked, "You've been seeing my niece?"
"Yes sir."
"And all this time you haven't asked her last name?" The look on his friends face seconded the question. How do you date someone whose last name you don't even know?
"Well it's not like that Jared. You see, we met at the Halloween Ball, and since have become good friends. It just slipped my mind that I never knew her last name. I feel as if I've known her all my life."
For a moment, Jared Tuskino looked at him intently. Then, as if deciding that Jason was telling the truth, he nodded. "Be careful. You wouldn't want to hurt my Princess."
Princess? Why does that sound so familiar? "Don't worry, I won't." Jase replied, thinking of the threats Michiru and Haruka had lain out when they first met him.
"You hurt her and you'll die pretty boy." Haruka proclaimed.
"Oh don't worry. I'll keep her from killing you. At least killing you quickly." Michiru seconded.
"Uncle! You're just as bad as my friends. You'd think I couldn't take care of myself the way you three hover." Serena admonished before turning toward Zach, Kane and Nathan. "I don't believe we've met. As I'm sure you've gathered, I'm Serena Tuskino. And you are?"
The three had been following the conversation in a sort of haze. Little things seemed to jump out at them as being important, but for no real reason. At her words however, Nathan snapped out of it. "Forgive us for not introducing ourselves sooner. I'm Nathan Carmichael and these are my associates and friends, Kane Harrison and Zachary Parker. You've obviously met Jase."
A small smile graced Serena's face before she replied. "Yes. I've known Jason for quite a while. Well gentlemen, what brings you to our home?"
"Well Serena dear, I invited them here tonight…"
"I did sort of figure that much out uncle."
"Yes…of course…well you see…"
At that point, Jason stepped in. "Sere, Your uncle invited us over tonight, because of your singing."
"My singing?"
"Yes, you see, me and the boys started, with the help of your uncle, a recording company that has since taken off. Would you be interested in singing professionally?"
"Just like that?"
"Just like that Serena." Kane said, taking his queue from Jason. "Your voice is amazing, and I'm sure that you could be great."
Do I want to do this? Its not like I'm doing anything of great importance here. And maybe it will be fun. Who knows? Either way, it will give me time to get to know what these men have become in this time. "I guess we'll see what we can do together."
"Great."
Well, that's it for this chapter. How was it? Good, bad, okay? Until next time!
A Change in the Winds
Chapter Six: Holiday Happenings