This chapter is for Kasia. You're a great friend! Sorry you had to wait so long for this!
Maid for You - Chapter 19
Serena lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. Butterflies flitted in her stomach and her heart was pounding. Today was the day that the Royal families from the other planets in the Solar system would arrive. She would be expected to formally greet them and behave in the manner of a princess. She was terrified.
"Hey." Came a gentle voice from besides her. She turned her head to see Endymion looking at her with concern. "What's the matter?" He asked gently. "It's not like you to be awake at this time." Indeed, it was only four-thirty in the morning, even the sun had not yet risen.
"Nothing." Serena mumbled, unconvincingly. Endymion rolled over and pulled her into his arms. "Come on love. I know you better than that. Is it today you're worried about? If it is, you don't need to worry. You'll do just fine, better probably!" he smiled. "Just be yourself." Serena sighed. She still wasn't satisfied.
"What if myself isn't good enough?" She asked nervously. "I'm not like all these people, I'm just a servant girl." The prince laughed lightly.
"Serena, don't think so little of yourself! You are beautiful, charming and intelligent. People would have to be mad not to love you! So don't worry!" He grinned. "And if that doesn't relax you, I know what will!" He pulled Serena even closer and kissed her. His kisses travelled down her neck, making her giggle. "Better?" He whispered in her ear. She nodded silently, enjoying the feel of his lips on her skin. "I love you." He whispered. "No one will ever love you even half as much as I do." Serena smiled.
"Oh, Endymion. I love you too." She wrapped her arms around him, her nerves forgotten.
"What are you going to wear?" Endymion asked as Serena gave her wardrobe blank looks. She shook her head.
"I don't know." The Queen had been more than generous, the large wardrobe was full of stunning dresses, but Serena was still having problems choosing. What sort of dress was appropriate for this type of occasion? She was so uncertain. As she rummaged through the wardrobe, something at the back caught her eye. She pulled it out and gave a small gasp of surprise. "Why, I'd forgotten all about this!" She thought. It was the pink and white satin dress she'd bought that day in town. "What do you think about this?" She asked Endymion, holding the dress up against her. He smiled.
"It's lovely! I haven't seen it before. When did Mother give it to you?" He asked. Serena shook her head.
"She didn't." She replied. "I bought this the day Maggie and I went shopping. I never thought I'd get to wear it for my Royal Presentation though!" She looked uncomfortable for a moment. "Are you're sure it's fancy enough?" She asked worriedly. Walking up to her, Endymion took the dress from her hands and placed it on a chair. Then he gently pulled his bride-to-be close.
"Serena." He spoke her name gently. "The dress is beautiful. YOU are beautiful. Trust me, you have nothing to worry about!" He leaned down and kissed her.
"Flatterer." She murmured contentedly. Her Prince grinned.
"Don't you know? Flattery gets you everywhere!" She looked at him suspiciously.
"It does?" He smiled slyly and bent down and kissed her again.
"It does."
Despite various distractions, Endymion and Serena were both ready by nine that morning. By half past that hour they were standing at the main gates to the Golden Palace, ready to greet their guests.
First came a stream of nobles from all over the planet. Serena made sure she was polite and charming to each one. Endymion was proud of her, he knew she was finding it easy. All was going well when Endymion suddenly groaned. "Oh no!"
Serena turned to him in alarm.
"What is it?" She asked. "What's wrong?" Endymion pointed to a young woman a little way away.
"Do you see that girl? That's Lady Isabella's daughter, Rebecca. You remember, from the last ball?" Serena did remember. That girl had almost caused a lot of problems! A wicked smile slowly grew on Serena's face. She looked at Endymion, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Let's have a little fun with her." She suggested. A small, approving smile tugged at Endymion's lips.
"What did you have in mind?" He liked the thought of a little revenge. Serena gave a small laugh.
"Nothing too drastic, just a small display of affection for her benefit!" The Prince grinned.
"Why not!" He tried not to laugh he cast his eyes to where Rebecca stood in line.
In took some fifteen minutes before Rebecca and her family finally reached them. Endymion and Serena greeted the Lord and Lady first, both of who responded politely but coolly, before turning their undivided attention to Rebecca.
"Hello again Lady Rebecca." Endymion said with a barely hidden grin. He gestured to Serena. "Allow me to introduce my beautiful fiancée, Serena." Serena gave Rebecca her sweetest smile as the girl curtsied.
"Delighted to meet you." Rebecca said with not a trace of sincerity. Then she turned an interesting shade of pink as Endymion casually slipped his arm around Serena's waist. Serena had to struggle not to laugh as she replied.
"Oh, the pleasure is all mine!" Then she leaned into Endymion's embrace and rested her hand on his chest, clearly displaying her engagement ring. At the sight of the huge diamond, Rebecca made a strange choking sound. Endymion grinned.
"I'm so glad you could come!" He said.
"It was no problem your Highness." She said stiffly and without another word she stalked off.
The moment she was out of earshot, Serena and Endymion burst into laughter. Rebecca's face had been a picture and Endymion now felt as if he'd had his revenge. They were still laughing as King Sol approached.
"I saw that." He said disapprovingly. "Honestly Endymion, you should know better." The Prince tried to wipe the smile off his face as he faced the King.
"Sorry Father." He said, but a smile still pulled at his lips. The King sighed.
"Honestly, Endymion. Please pull yourself together, both of you. Queen Serenity will be arriving in a minute. I want both of you to create a good impression." Endymion nodded.
"Yes Father." He took Serena's hand and the three of them walked to the stone ring where the Moon Queen would arrive by teleportation. Queen Gaia was already there.
They had been there only a moment when the ring began to glow brightly. Suddenly, it flared like a super-nova, temporarily blinding all those present.
As the light faded Endymion blinked a few times to clear his vision. Serena did the same and a moment later she could clearly see the new arrivals.
Five stood in the circle, four young women about her age and Serenity, Queen of the Moon. Serena stared at the Queen. She was not much taller than Serena, yet she seemed to rise to a great height. She wore a pale gown that was almost white yet held a hint of pink. Her eyes were blue-grey and her floor-length silver hair was done up in a strange double bunned style. She smiled softly at the waiting group.
King Sol stepped forward. "Queen Serenity. On behalf of my planet and my people, I welcome you to Earth." Serenity inclined her head in acknowledgement.
"Thank you, your majesty. It is a pleasure to be on your glorious planet once again." She turned then to face Gaia, who was smiling warmly. "Gaia." Forgoing formalities, she stepped forward and hugged her old friend. "I have missed you."
"I've missed you too Serenity." Gaia replied. She beckoned to Endymion to step forward. He did so, bringing Serena with him. "It has been many years since you saw him." Gaia said, "So allow me in re-introduce the cause of these celebrations, my son Endymion." Endymion met the Moon Queen's gaze and bowed deeply.
"It is an honour, your Majesty." He said formally.
"The feeling is mutual Prince of Earth." Serenity responded. Her eyes turned from the Prince as Serena came forward.
"Serenity, this is my son's fiancée, Serena." Gaia said.
Serena, for reasons she couldn't explain, was suddenly more nervous than she had ever been in her life. She wanted desperately to impress the queen, it seemed important not to disappoint her. Curtsying, she greeted the Queen with more confidence that she really felt. "I am greatly honoured to meet you, your majesty." She said, forcing a smile.
Serenity beheld the young woman with a curious gaze. She did not know the girl, but for some strange reason, she desperately wanted the nervous former maid to like her. Offering Serena a warm smile, she greeted the girl without formalities.
"Hello Serena. It's very good to meet you too. Allow me to introduce my companions and guardians." On cue, the four young women stepped forward. Serenity introduced each one in turn. "Firstly, the leader of the group, Princess Mina of Venus also known as Sailor Venus, Princess Ami of Mercury, Also known as Sailor Mercury, Princess Rei of Mars also known as Sailor Mars and last but in no way least, Princess Lita of Jupiter, also known as Sailor Jupiter!" Serena's head was spinning. She didn't know how she would remember all their names! She smiled weakly, but felt slightly reassured when all four girls gave her friendly grins. Still, she remained close to Endymion.
Noticing the slight unease between the groups, Gaia approached Serenity. "Come for a walk with me." She asked. "For we have much to catch up on." Serenity nodded in agreement.
"Indeed we do she said." She turned to the princesses. "You may do as you please until this evening. I will be with Queen Gaia." Then the two Queens left to renew their long dormant friendship.
The princesses immediately started discussing what they wanted to do. Serena was still nervously standing at her Princes' side when King Sol came up to them. He turned to his son.
"Endymion, there is something I must discuss with you. I will not take too much of your time, but it is important." The Earth-Prince frowned.
"Father, I can't just leave Serena here alone!" He protested. Sol opened his mouth to speak, but before he could say a word, Sailor Venus stepped forward.
"We'll look after her, your highness!" She said, smiling brightly at the Prince. "She can be our guide!" Endymion was surprised but pleased at the girls friendliness. He turned to Serena.
"Is that alright with you? He asked. Serena looked uncomfortable.
"Well, I could…" She said uncertainly. She didn't really want to go with these Princesses she didn't know, but she knew she would have to get used to such things if she was to be a princess herself.
She jumped as she felt an unfamiliar hand on her shoulder. Twisting around she saw Sailor Mercury.
"Don't worry." The girl said kindly. "We just want to get to know you!" Serena looked at Endymion, who nodded. He wanted her to do this. She turned back to the Princesses and took a deep breath.
"Very well. I would love to go with you!"
"That's wonderful." Mercury replied. "I'm sure we'll all have a wonderful time!" She went to lead Serena away, but stopped as Endymion stepped up. He pulled Serena into an embrace.
"Have fun and I'll see you later. Don't worry, I think you're safe with these four!" Planting a gentle kiss on her forehead, he released her and then walked off with his father. Serena watched him for a moment before turning back to the Princesses.
"So what would you like to see?" She asked. She was met with a torrent of replies.
"The kitchens!"
"The library!"
"The ballroom!"
"The gardens!"
She sighed. This was going to be hard work!
End Chapter 19
Finally! I never meant to leave it this long, but other things, namely life and other fics kept happening! Hey, if there's any Lord of the Rings fans reading this, please check out my new fic 'Ever After.'
Thanks! Until next time!
Katiestar
Maid for You - Chapter 19
Serena lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. Butterflies flitted in her stomach and her heart was pounding. Today was the day that the Royal families from the other planets in the Solar system would arrive. She would be expected to formally greet them and behave in the manner of a princess. She was terrified.
"Hey." Came a gentle voice from besides her. She turned her head to see Endymion looking at her with concern. "What's the matter?" He asked gently. "It's not like you to be awake at this time." Indeed, it was only four-thirty in the morning, even the sun had not yet risen.
"Nothing." Serena mumbled, unconvincingly. Endymion rolled over and pulled her into his arms. "Come on love. I know you better than that. Is it today you're worried about? If it is, you don't need to worry. You'll do just fine, better probably!" he smiled. "Just be yourself." Serena sighed. She still wasn't satisfied.
"What if myself isn't good enough?" She asked nervously. "I'm not like all these people, I'm just a servant girl." The prince laughed lightly.
"Serena, don't think so little of yourself! You are beautiful, charming and intelligent. People would have to be mad not to love you! So don't worry!" He grinned. "And if that doesn't relax you, I know what will!" He pulled Serena even closer and kissed her. His kisses travelled down her neck, making her giggle. "Better?" He whispered in her ear. She nodded silently, enjoying the feel of his lips on her skin. "I love you." He whispered. "No one will ever love you even half as much as I do." Serena smiled.
"Oh, Endymion. I love you too." She wrapped her arms around him, her nerves forgotten.
"What are you going to wear?" Endymion asked as Serena gave her wardrobe blank looks. She shook her head.
"I don't know." The Queen had been more than generous, the large wardrobe was full of stunning dresses, but Serena was still having problems choosing. What sort of dress was appropriate for this type of occasion? She was so uncertain. As she rummaged through the wardrobe, something at the back caught her eye. She pulled it out and gave a small gasp of surprise. "Why, I'd forgotten all about this!" She thought. It was the pink and white satin dress she'd bought that day in town. "What do you think about this?" She asked Endymion, holding the dress up against her. He smiled.
"It's lovely! I haven't seen it before. When did Mother give it to you?" He asked. Serena shook her head.
"She didn't." She replied. "I bought this the day Maggie and I went shopping. I never thought I'd get to wear it for my Royal Presentation though!" She looked uncomfortable for a moment. "Are you're sure it's fancy enough?" She asked worriedly. Walking up to her, Endymion took the dress from her hands and placed it on a chair. Then he gently pulled his bride-to-be close.
"Serena." He spoke her name gently. "The dress is beautiful. YOU are beautiful. Trust me, you have nothing to worry about!" He leaned down and kissed her.
"Flatterer." She murmured contentedly. Her Prince grinned.
"Don't you know? Flattery gets you everywhere!" She looked at him suspiciously.
"It does?" He smiled slyly and bent down and kissed her again.
"It does."
Despite various distractions, Endymion and Serena were both ready by nine that morning. By half past that hour they were standing at the main gates to the Golden Palace, ready to greet their guests.
First came a stream of nobles from all over the planet. Serena made sure she was polite and charming to each one. Endymion was proud of her, he knew she was finding it easy. All was going well when Endymion suddenly groaned. "Oh no!"
Serena turned to him in alarm.
"What is it?" She asked. "What's wrong?" Endymion pointed to a young woman a little way away.
"Do you see that girl? That's Lady Isabella's daughter, Rebecca. You remember, from the last ball?" Serena did remember. That girl had almost caused a lot of problems! A wicked smile slowly grew on Serena's face. She looked at Endymion, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Let's have a little fun with her." She suggested. A small, approving smile tugged at Endymion's lips.
"What did you have in mind?" He liked the thought of a little revenge. Serena gave a small laugh.
"Nothing too drastic, just a small display of affection for her benefit!" The Prince grinned.
"Why not!" He tried not to laugh he cast his eyes to where Rebecca stood in line.
In took some fifteen minutes before Rebecca and her family finally reached them. Endymion and Serena greeted the Lord and Lady first, both of who responded politely but coolly, before turning their undivided attention to Rebecca.
"Hello again Lady Rebecca." Endymion said with a barely hidden grin. He gestured to Serena. "Allow me to introduce my beautiful fiancée, Serena." Serena gave Rebecca her sweetest smile as the girl curtsied.
"Delighted to meet you." Rebecca said with not a trace of sincerity. Then she turned an interesting shade of pink as Endymion casually slipped his arm around Serena's waist. Serena had to struggle not to laugh as she replied.
"Oh, the pleasure is all mine!" Then she leaned into Endymion's embrace and rested her hand on his chest, clearly displaying her engagement ring. At the sight of the huge diamond, Rebecca made a strange choking sound. Endymion grinned.
"I'm so glad you could come!" He said.
"It was no problem your Highness." She said stiffly and without another word she stalked off.
The moment she was out of earshot, Serena and Endymion burst into laughter. Rebecca's face had been a picture and Endymion now felt as if he'd had his revenge. They were still laughing as King Sol approached.
"I saw that." He said disapprovingly. "Honestly Endymion, you should know better." The Prince tried to wipe the smile off his face as he faced the King.
"Sorry Father." He said, but a smile still pulled at his lips. The King sighed.
"Honestly, Endymion. Please pull yourself together, both of you. Queen Serenity will be arriving in a minute. I want both of you to create a good impression." Endymion nodded.
"Yes Father." He took Serena's hand and the three of them walked to the stone ring where the Moon Queen would arrive by teleportation. Queen Gaia was already there.
They had been there only a moment when the ring began to glow brightly. Suddenly, it flared like a super-nova, temporarily blinding all those present.
As the light faded Endymion blinked a few times to clear his vision. Serena did the same and a moment later she could clearly see the new arrivals.
Five stood in the circle, four young women about her age and Serenity, Queen of the Moon. Serena stared at the Queen. She was not much taller than Serena, yet she seemed to rise to a great height. She wore a pale gown that was almost white yet held a hint of pink. Her eyes were blue-grey and her floor-length silver hair was done up in a strange double bunned style. She smiled softly at the waiting group.
King Sol stepped forward. "Queen Serenity. On behalf of my planet and my people, I welcome you to Earth." Serenity inclined her head in acknowledgement.
"Thank you, your majesty. It is a pleasure to be on your glorious planet once again." She turned then to face Gaia, who was smiling warmly. "Gaia." Forgoing formalities, she stepped forward and hugged her old friend. "I have missed you."
"I've missed you too Serenity." Gaia replied. She beckoned to Endymion to step forward. He did so, bringing Serena with him. "It has been many years since you saw him." Gaia said, "So allow me in re-introduce the cause of these celebrations, my son Endymion." Endymion met the Moon Queen's gaze and bowed deeply.
"It is an honour, your Majesty." He said formally.
"The feeling is mutual Prince of Earth." Serenity responded. Her eyes turned from the Prince as Serena came forward.
"Serenity, this is my son's fiancée, Serena." Gaia said.
Serena, for reasons she couldn't explain, was suddenly more nervous than she had ever been in her life. She wanted desperately to impress the queen, it seemed important not to disappoint her. Curtsying, she greeted the Queen with more confidence that she really felt. "I am greatly honoured to meet you, your majesty." She said, forcing a smile.
Serenity beheld the young woman with a curious gaze. She did not know the girl, but for some strange reason, she desperately wanted the nervous former maid to like her. Offering Serena a warm smile, she greeted the girl without formalities.
"Hello Serena. It's very good to meet you too. Allow me to introduce my companions and guardians." On cue, the four young women stepped forward. Serenity introduced each one in turn. "Firstly, the leader of the group, Princess Mina of Venus also known as Sailor Venus, Princess Ami of Mercury, Also known as Sailor Mercury, Princess Rei of Mars also known as Sailor Mars and last but in no way least, Princess Lita of Jupiter, also known as Sailor Jupiter!" Serena's head was spinning. She didn't know how she would remember all their names! She smiled weakly, but felt slightly reassured when all four girls gave her friendly grins. Still, she remained close to Endymion.
Noticing the slight unease between the groups, Gaia approached Serenity. "Come for a walk with me." She asked. "For we have much to catch up on." Serenity nodded in agreement.
"Indeed we do she said." She turned to the princesses. "You may do as you please until this evening. I will be with Queen Gaia." Then the two Queens left to renew their long dormant friendship.
The princesses immediately started discussing what they wanted to do. Serena was still nervously standing at her Princes' side when King Sol came up to them. He turned to his son.
"Endymion, there is something I must discuss with you. I will not take too much of your time, but it is important." The Earth-Prince frowned.
"Father, I can't just leave Serena here alone!" He protested. Sol opened his mouth to speak, but before he could say a word, Sailor Venus stepped forward.
"We'll look after her, your highness!" She said, smiling brightly at the Prince. "She can be our guide!" Endymion was surprised but pleased at the girls friendliness. He turned to Serena.
"Is that alright with you? He asked. Serena looked uncomfortable.
"Well, I could…" She said uncertainly. She didn't really want to go with these Princesses she didn't know, but she knew she would have to get used to such things if she was to be a princess herself.
She jumped as she felt an unfamiliar hand on her shoulder. Twisting around she saw Sailor Mercury.
"Don't worry." The girl said kindly. "We just want to get to know you!" Serena looked at Endymion, who nodded. He wanted her to do this. She turned back to the Princesses and took a deep breath.
"Very well. I would love to go with you!"
"That's wonderful." Mercury replied. "I'm sure we'll all have a wonderful time!" She went to lead Serena away, but stopped as Endymion stepped up. He pulled Serena into an embrace.
"Have fun and I'll see you later. Don't worry, I think you're safe with these four!" Planting a gentle kiss on her forehead, he released her and then walked off with his father. Serena watched him for a moment before turning back to the Princesses.
"So what would you like to see?" She asked. She was met with a torrent of replies.
"The kitchens!"
"The library!"
"The ballroom!"
"The gardens!"
She sighed. This was going to be hard work!
End Chapter 19
Finally! I never meant to leave it this long, but other things, namely life and other fics kept happening! Hey, if there's any Lord of the Rings fans reading this, please check out my new fic 'Ever After.'
Thanks! Until next time!
Katiestar