Hey people! Thanks so much for all your reviews, I hope you like this
chapter!!! Once again a big thankyou to my fantastic editor..i couldn't do
it without you girl!! Love you all lots! Mwa!
To kalinda, Sailor-Nekawaii, Chikara, Megan Consoer, my secret, Lady SilverTear, Lady of Enchantment, Eo, Jasmine Deliria, SilverMo: First of all let me say this, thankyou, thnkyou, thankyou. You have no idea how much your ideas have meant to me, they really gave me the inspiration to get this chapter out quicker. So I hope I haven't kept you waiting too long. Once again, thanks, and I hope you enjoy the story.
To xmizzscarlet: I can't really take credit for all of that, if it wasn't for nightelf my fantastic editor you'd have to put up with my really bad spelling. (
To: Lady of Enchantment, Sailor-Nekawaii, SilverMo and deadlydiva: You guys have been there with me since the very beginning, and I just wanted to take time out and give you an extra special thankyou.
To Deadly Diva: Your review really blew me away. Your analysis of Serenity's character was spot on in a lot of different ways. And you are right, Endymion will have his hands full with serenity and you'll see that a little more in the next few chapters. At the end of the chapter something might happen that seems inconsistent with the characterisation, but I just wanted to let you know that it will be explained better in the next chapter. If you have any suggestions, or predictions let me know..i'd love to hear form you.
Okay people now on with the story!
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One is not born a leader. A title such as that must be earned through perseverance and dedication. We have all heard tales of the legendary Arthur, yet leading a country is never so simple. One must be able to not only manipulate the court but the people. Deception has been key to my success, yet I am well aware that it will also be my downfall. So it has been, and for that I beg for forgiveness.
From the diary of King Aura II Emperor of the Moon.
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I slowly tied my hair back in a pony tail and ran a hand along my forehead, trying to remove the beads of sweat that had collected there.
"Have I tired you out already?" Jadeite's cocky voice taunted.
"Like you can talk." I nudged my head towards his sweat soaked shirt. He ignored my statement completely; instead he walked across the wooden floor to the wall and studied the weapons mounted there keenly.
"Sword?"
"Sure." He nodded, taking two off the wall. He walked back slowly and handed me one.
"Try not to get hurt." I shook my head. The size of the man's ego was incredible. We circled each other keenly. He was the first to attack, not surprising considering his infamous lack of patience. I blocked his attack easily and replied with my own.
So it was for the better part of the hour. As he expanded I contracted and visa versa. The sudden thump of the doors of the training room being thrown open distracted him for an instant.
It was all I needed. I knocked the sword out of his hand and pressed the tip of mine to his neck.
"You don't play fair." He smiled as he backed away, a slight pout forming on his lips.
"I play to win." The servant that had entered before only now gained the courage to scurry towards us. He bowed clumsily.
"What is it?" Jadeite snapped, his loss affecting his mood.
"I-I was told to inform you that t-there will be another dinner tonight and that y-you are to dress accordingly." The moment the words had left his mouth he ran out of the room. I couldn't help but laugh.
"Are we really that terrifying?" I asked Jadeite.
"No we are not, but your smell is." I opened my mouth to make a witty retort when Damien burst into the room, his appearance was slightly dishevelled and his lips held a disapproving sneer.
I knew exactly what he was going to say.
"Tell me it's not true." He stared at me, his hands folded over his chest, his eyes holding a deep scowl.
"I have no idea what you're talking of." Jadeite noticed the concerned look on Damien's features and raised a brow in response.
"Serenity..." Jadeite warned, knowing whatever my brother was worried about would be of some importance.
I looked at both men and smiled. It was one of my signature enigmatic smiles that they could interpret freely. Damien swore quietly under his breath while Jadeite shook his head and smiled, seeing the humour in the situation.
"Why would you acquaint yourself with the Prince of the Earth knowing full well of his reputation."
"Endymion?" Jadeite glanced at Damien then glared at me. "He's trouble Serenity."
"That what they say about you." I snapped.
"He's infamous for the way he lures woman into falling in love with him and then abandoning them. Its all a game to him." I rolled my eyes, and Damien fell silent. A deep sigh escaped his lips and he glanced at Jadeite only to find that his thoughts were the same.
"I don't know why I bother." Damien whispered, exasperated. Jadeite shrugged, running a hand through his golden hair.
"Be careful, I know full well why the man appeals to you. He knows the game a lot better than you do." Jadeite whispered quietly, his eyes locking with mine to make sure I knew the importance of the warning.
"I am quite capable of taking care of myself. There's nothing to worry about." The minute the words left my mouth the two men glanced at each other, knowing very well that they had been right to be concerned.
They were right, he was trouble.
And they knew me far to well.
As I entered Mina's room I couldn't help but smile. Mina was in the corner pulling out a different dress by the minute, while Lita and Rei were sprawled on the lush bed snacking on some cookies. Amy was sitting in a chair with a book in her hand, reading quietly.
It was good to know that some things never change.
The balcony doors were open so a soft breeze flew in accompanied by the lush smell of the sea. For a few moments I just observed them smiling, laughing, a part of me feeling that I no longer deserved to be in their select group. I was so absorbed in my own thoughts that I didn't notice the large expensively embroidered white satin pillow flying towards my face.
"So are you going to keep gawking at us or are you going to come in?" I caught the devilish sparkle in Rei's eyes. I laughed and in reply flung myself on the bed earning an annoyed sneer from Lita and Rei.
"We're timing her. So far she's been at it for fifteen minutes and forty five seconds." Lita whispered nodding in Mina's direction where she was still sifting through clothes, a very worried expression on her face. I couldn't help but smile. Their happiness was contagious.
"If I didn't know better I'd say she was trying to impress someone." At my remark Amy slowly placed the book beside the chair and climbed onto the bed.
"That would be because she is. All through philosophy all she could speak of was your silver haired general and how incredibly dashing he was." She slowly started blinking her eyelashes and making damsel in distress gestures. This brought on another wave of laughter.
"Like you can talk. I heard all those love sick sighs you were making today." Mina replied unexpectedly. Amy went a very interesting shade of red.
"And who has stolen the heart of our ice maiden?" I teased.
"Would you say she could rival a tomato now?" Lita asked smiling at Amy's beat red cheeks.
"What are you going to wear to the masquerade Serenity?" Rei asked casually, taking the attention from our very red friend.
"To tell you the truth it had quite slipped my mind." Rei shook her head and laughed. Some things never changed.
We spent the rest of the day laughing and gossiping and finally getting dressed for dinner. Rei informed me that the Queen made sure that even simple dinners were like small balls. With dancing and so forth. She told me that it was her way of keeping the court around her so no one could organise a rebellion without fearing for their family's safety. I sighed as we made our way to the dinning room.
The minute I entered the room I spotted him. He was unsurprisingly surrounded by women, all competing for his attention. I could feel his eyes running over my body from under his lashes. I looked up and glared at him. An infuriating smile spread across his lips and he slowly nodded his head in my direction. I turned on my heel and walked in the opposite side of the hall.
During dinner I was placed beside a young noble man named Alan. His hair was a sandy blonde, and seemed quite plain when compared to Jadeite's brilliant gold. His complexion was nothing out of the ordinary and his eyes were a common blue. I could see him looking at me from the corner of his eyes and resisted the urge to roll mine. As I glanced around the table I saw that someone had placed Rei and Jadeite side by side. For the first few minutes the two had sat in silence, the waves of anger rolling off them. Then one could hear annoyed whispers and sharp retorts as they glared at each other menacingly. However by the end of the night they had been reduced to childish antics of pushing each others utensils to the floor. It took all my will power to contain my laughter. My gaze caught Malachite's as he hid a laugh behind a cough.
"May I say that you look particularly beautiful tonight." Alan's voice averted my attention away from the amusing pair. I was about to make a harsh retort and destroy his already small ego when I had an idea. A soft smile spread across my face. This would be fun. I returned my attention back to Alan, for a few seconds I stared into his eyes, then turned away and pretended to blush at his words.
It worked like a charm.
Alan almost immediately thrust his chest out and sat regally in his chair. It took all my self control not to laugh at the transparency of the man. After dinner he asked me to dance, and I graciously accepted. I let my gaze fall on Endymion as he lifted a glass of white wine to his lips. He ever so slowly took a sip and lowered the glass, he caught my gaze and lifted a brow, daring me to go further.
In reply I tightened my hold on Alan and let the back of my hand slide across his cheek. I smiled with satisfaction as I noticed Endymion's hold on his glass tighten.
He was good.
I was better.
Or so I thought.
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I was leaving when I felt strong arms wrap around my waist and pull me into a dark corridor. I could feel the cool marble wall pressed into my back, I would have struggled if I had not recognised his presence.
"You're avoiding me." His vice was warm and coarse. I searched his face for emotion but it was obscured in shadows.
"Jealous?" In response he pushed his body a little harder against mine.
"Really Serenity, don't embarrass yourself. You could do so much better than Alan." I could feel his eyes searing into my soul, his proximity obscuring my ability to think coherently.
"And what is wrong with Alan? He's sweet, loyal..."
"Lacks passion, is still nothing much more than a boy." I could feel his face inches away from mine. "You need so much more than that. Admit it." His warm breath caressed the skin of my neck. I closed my eyes trying to stop my body from melting into his embrace.
"He's on the verge on professing his love." I wrapped my arms around his neck, I could hear him chuckling softly. "What do you find so amusing?"
"The fact that he would leave you so easily." I could feel the anger running through my veins at his arrogance.
"Is that so?" I sneered at him pulling slightly away from his embrace. In response he tightened his hold on my waist and pressed me further to into the wall.
"Are you willing to make a wager that he won't?" Even in the dark I could see his eyes gleaming with mischief.
"How much?" I could barely whisper the words.
"A night." His voice was hoarse as he pressed his lips to my collar bone.
"And what would this night involve?" I whispered my hands running down his neck.
"Champagne, liquid chocolate, strawberries..." He whispered each word slowly and huskily in my ear, making his intent all too plain. I could feel the tips of his fingers ever so lightly running along my waist.
"I'll never come willingly." I threw open the gauntlet.
"You will." He pushed me even further into the wall so I could feel every inch of him. A soft moan escaped my lips. "You can." His fingers slowly traced down my neck followed by a trace of hot kisses. "You have." He brought his lips inches from my own, I closed my eyes in anticipation. Instead of his lips crushing on mine I could feel his tongue slowly tracing my lips, he then gently took my lower lip between his own and nibbled on it softly.
When I opened my eyes he was gone. I returned to my room highly strung and unfulfilled.
He was good.
Too good.
"Have you seen Serenity?" Jadeite asked Rei desperately. He had avoided the little she-devil, but no one else knew where his friend was. He had also noticed that the Prince of Earth had disappeared, and that could only mean trouble.
"I think she retired early." Rei replied coldly without so much as looking at him. "And yes, I have reason to believe she is with the Prince." Jadeite swore quietly and headed towards the door when Rei's hand stopped him. The feel of her bare skin on his shot a jolt of electricity through them both. Of course neither party was willing to acknowledge it. His nostrils flared, whether it was from arousal or anger he did not know.
"She knows very well what she is doing. I don't approve of him either. He's a sly one to put it delicately. But you must know as well as I that by telling her your concerns she will only be driven further into his arms." Jadeite stared at her and sighed. He knew well she was right.
"If he hurts her..."
"You'll have to wait in line to kill him." For a moment the two of them smiled at each other but the moment was short lived. Reality reawakened in their senses all too quickly. Rei sneered at him and walked away quickly, angry that she had conversed with him in the friendly manner.
Yet a part of her wondered, if they had met under different circumstances....she didn't continue the trail of thought. The prospects were too painful to accept.
"Is there something you want princess? For I dare say you have been staring at me for the better part of the night." Malachite's voice was low, and he had spoken without turning to see her. Mina bit her lip slowly, she had begun to doubt herself at his words. She had always been confident when it had come to men, yet around him she was no more than warm jelly. She shook her head resisting the urge to stamp her foot in frustration. She would not pursue him unless she knew he also had feelings for her.
"I merely wished to inform you that Jadeite is looking for you." Malachite raised an eyebrow at this. He turned slowly. He would admit that she was a sight for sore eyes. Her lemon blonde hair fell past her shoulders her orange dress clung to her curves like a second skin. He moved closer to her, and decided to test the waters by leaning in closer. He was satisfied when she gasped quietly. He smiled intently as he watched her moving rapidly back into the crowded hall.
May the faiths have mercy on him, for he feared he was already falling for the woman.
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"Endymion." He cringed as he heard the woman drawl his name. He nodded towards the woman. Two days had passed since his conversation with Serenity and this was the only way he could guarantee to win their little bet.
"Beryl." He could not believe that he had returned to her, yet it was necessary.
"What brings you here my Prince?" She whispered huskily letting her fingers not very subtly trace over his chest. He resisted the urge to laugh at her vulgar tactics.
"To inform you that there is a masquerade occurring tonight. Because of our past I thought it necessary to extend an invitation to you, as I am well aware of your hopes of securing a influential position in court."
"That should not be a problem. I could have any noble man wrapped around my finger." Endymion smiled at this. Things were going exactly as he planned.
"Not all Beryl, some men cannot be seduced. Some are far two loyal to fall for your charms." He let his gaze fall down to her chest and then returned it to her face, arching a brow, making his meaning clear.
"Who?" Beryl cried, jumping on the challenge.
"You know I cannot say."
She slowly purred into his ear, while playing with her bright red hair. "Please?"
"Only if you promise not to form any sort of attachment to the man."
"Oh, Endy what do you take me for?"
"Sir Alan Becker, the current fancy of Princess Serenity." He smiled with satisfaction as he could see her sitting quietly calculating her plan.
I'm sure you realise that I was not aware of the events that I have described above at the time. Yet it is of great importance that you are aware of them. For what purpose you ask? Well, you'll just have to read and find out now won't you?
I don't know why but I took particular care with my appearance that night. After hours of deliberation I settled on a white dress with golden embroidery. It was a little more daring then the clothes I usually wore, but I had a point to prove. The white satin gown dipped daringly at the back. My hair was in a messy bun allowing some of the curls to run down my back, directing the eye to the naked flesh. White gloves completed the ensemble. I gently let my fingers run along my mask. It was a simple white with a single diamond tear glistening on its cheek. I could hear a gentle rap on my door and opened it immediately.
"You look ravishing." Jadeite slowly kissed my hand. "I'm beginning to wonder how I ever believed you were a man." I blushed slightly at his comment.
"You don't look too bad yourself." I replied. He was wearing white breeches with a form fitting white shirt. A blood red vest with gold embroidery broke up the white. The upper half of his mask was covered with the same material as his vest. His eyes fell on my mask and he let his hands trail over it, a slight frown on his face.
"Not quite right." He closed his eyes and extended his hand. In a matter of seconds ribbons of silver light formed above his hands. They slowly wove together to form the outline of a mask. In a flash of brilliant white light a new mask lay in Jadeite's hands. This mask was half covered in gold while the other half was a plain white. The gold section had small diamonds placed on it in intricate patterns.
"Its beautiful." He nodded his head and offered me his hand, with that we walked to the ballroom together.
As I entered the ball room my eyes sought and found him immediately. His dark pants accentuated his slim hips while his dark vest and white peasant shirt showed off every taut muscle of his chest. The dark colours emphasised his dark hair and his brilliant sapphire eyes. I could see the mischievous gleam in his eyes. He made his way to through the crowd towards us. When he reached us he slowly nodded his head towards Jadeite, who's hand I could feel tighten around mine.
"May I have the pleasure of this dance my lady?" I nodded and he swiftly led me to the dance floor. He made his way to the maestro, and on his return a tango had started to play. I smiled, his choice was very appropriate indeed. As the music started I felt him pull me against him, his lips inches from my own. Then I span away and he pulled me back pressing me against him once more. As we danced we lost track of time, each of us focusing on gaining the upper hand. Neither of us succeeding.
I was too wrapped up in the moment to notice Alan, or the fact the his eyes were searing into the back of my skull. Nor did I see Beryl slowly move towards him and whisper quietly in his ear.
By the end of the dance we were both out of breath, and on edge. His hands were still tightly wrapped around my waist. His lips edged ever closer to mine.
"Do you have any idea what you do to me?" He whispered heatedly as he ran a finger down the bare skin of my back. It was Damien's rather pronounced cough that broke me out my trance.
For the rest of the night I avoided him.
"Have you seen Alan?" I asked one of the men at the party, he pointed to the stairs. I slowly went up the stairs. As I passed the hallway I noticed that the guests were glancing at me strangely. Some held pity, others amusement. I reached a closed door, slowly I knocked. When nobody answered I moved closer. Even before opening the door I could hear soft moaning from the other side. As I opened the door I immediately saw Alan sprawled over the bed, a woman with blazing red hair above him. I turned away from the vulgar display of affection.
Of course I was not hurt, I had no right to be.
As I was walking away I could hear the sound of Alan's voice, but I did not pay any attention. Why would I? As I descended the stair case a certain prince with cobalt hair and an infuriating smile caught my attention. I straightened my already rigid posture, and moved passed him without a glance. I was not more than a meter past where he had stood when I felt his warm breath on my ear.
"Follow me to the balcony." He didn't wait to witness my reaction but rather passed by me making his way to the designated area. I could feel my blood boil with anger. How dare he presume to tell me what to do?
I don't know why I followed him.
As I reached the balcony, his back was to me. He was staring at the vast kingdom, a delicate crystal wine glass in his hands. He took a sip of the translucent fluid and turned his head towards me.
"When can I collect my reward?" His words were cold, his tone indifferent. I didn't know him well enough then to understand that he was not willing to admit his feelings for me yet. I believe he thought that if he actually bedded me that I would be out of his system. That he would bore of me, just as he had with all of his other women.
I believed the same thing, and I was not willing to take the risk.
"I am not your whore Endymion!" I whispered the words furiously. He turned away from me and a deep sigh escaped his lips.
"No, you are not." His face was inches from my own with a few strides. "You are my tormentor, my agony, my curse." He cupped my face in both his hands. "Why do you taunt me thus?" He pressed his lips harshly against my own, his arms pulling me into his brutal embrace. All the frustration and confusion was unleashed in the single kiss. He pulled away, as out of breath as I was. "Will you honour our bet?"
"I gave you no word."
"You cannot resist me forever."
"Try me." With that I spun on my heel and made started to make my way back to the ball room. He grabbed my hand and pulled me back into his embrace pressing every inch of his body against my own.
"You do realise chère, that this means war." I smirked at him. I was not scared of the man.
But then again perhaps I should have been.
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What I am about to describe here is an event that I had no knowledge of at the time it occurred. If I had my tale would have been quite different. But this is what I understand occurred.
A few days had passed since the disagreement between myself and Endymion. He had deliberated with himself for hours for the actions he was about to take, but he had assured himself that what he was about to do was indeed, the right thing. Slowly he raised his hand and gently knocked on the heavy oak door.
"Come." The voice was called. For a minute he hesitated but his pride took control and he opened the door with his head held high. He bowed low to the Queen, aware that she was assessing him with her eyes. Her beauty was unmatched, as was her cold demeanour. She nodded towards a large leather chair. He accepted the invitation and sat down.
"To what do I owe this honour?" The Queen asked, her tone disinterested.
"I have come to discuss your daughter." The change in the Queen was instantaneous.
"What of my daughter?" The Queen asked, her curiosity gained.
"I wish to marry her, in order to secure the alliance between the Earth and the Moon." The Queen stared at him for many moments, considering his sanity. She was suspicious immediately.
"And what am I to do with this?"
"I have reason to believe that the princess would not consent to such an arrangement. I am well aware that you have certain ways of persuading her into such an alliance."
"And what will I gain from this?"
"You will be rid of a daughter you have always disliked. Further, I shall make sure to not revel certain information about the Moon's treasury and how the gold seems to be going to a particular whore house, in which I am informed you seek solace." She glared at him, her countenance dripping with rage. She opened her mouth to yell but before she could her lips curved into a delicate smile.
"Perhaps we could come to an arrangement."
A smile danced on his lips, all was going to plan.
To kalinda, Sailor-Nekawaii, Chikara, Megan Consoer, my secret, Lady SilverTear, Lady of Enchantment, Eo, Jasmine Deliria, SilverMo: First of all let me say this, thankyou, thnkyou, thankyou. You have no idea how much your ideas have meant to me, they really gave me the inspiration to get this chapter out quicker. So I hope I haven't kept you waiting too long. Once again, thanks, and I hope you enjoy the story.
To xmizzscarlet: I can't really take credit for all of that, if it wasn't for nightelf my fantastic editor you'd have to put up with my really bad spelling. (
To: Lady of Enchantment, Sailor-Nekawaii, SilverMo and deadlydiva: You guys have been there with me since the very beginning, and I just wanted to take time out and give you an extra special thankyou.
To Deadly Diva: Your review really blew me away. Your analysis of Serenity's character was spot on in a lot of different ways. And you are right, Endymion will have his hands full with serenity and you'll see that a little more in the next few chapters. At the end of the chapter something might happen that seems inconsistent with the characterisation, but I just wanted to let you know that it will be explained better in the next chapter. If you have any suggestions, or predictions let me know..i'd love to hear form you.
Okay people now on with the story!
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One is not born a leader. A title such as that must be earned through perseverance and dedication. We have all heard tales of the legendary Arthur, yet leading a country is never so simple. One must be able to not only manipulate the court but the people. Deception has been key to my success, yet I am well aware that it will also be my downfall. So it has been, and for that I beg for forgiveness.
From the diary of King Aura II Emperor of the Moon.
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I slowly tied my hair back in a pony tail and ran a hand along my forehead, trying to remove the beads of sweat that had collected there.
"Have I tired you out already?" Jadeite's cocky voice taunted.
"Like you can talk." I nudged my head towards his sweat soaked shirt. He ignored my statement completely; instead he walked across the wooden floor to the wall and studied the weapons mounted there keenly.
"Sword?"
"Sure." He nodded, taking two off the wall. He walked back slowly and handed me one.
"Try not to get hurt." I shook my head. The size of the man's ego was incredible. We circled each other keenly. He was the first to attack, not surprising considering his infamous lack of patience. I blocked his attack easily and replied with my own.
So it was for the better part of the hour. As he expanded I contracted and visa versa. The sudden thump of the doors of the training room being thrown open distracted him for an instant.
It was all I needed. I knocked the sword out of his hand and pressed the tip of mine to his neck.
"You don't play fair." He smiled as he backed away, a slight pout forming on his lips.
"I play to win." The servant that had entered before only now gained the courage to scurry towards us. He bowed clumsily.
"What is it?" Jadeite snapped, his loss affecting his mood.
"I-I was told to inform you that t-there will be another dinner tonight and that y-you are to dress accordingly." The moment the words had left his mouth he ran out of the room. I couldn't help but laugh.
"Are we really that terrifying?" I asked Jadeite.
"No we are not, but your smell is." I opened my mouth to make a witty retort when Damien burst into the room, his appearance was slightly dishevelled and his lips held a disapproving sneer.
I knew exactly what he was going to say.
"Tell me it's not true." He stared at me, his hands folded over his chest, his eyes holding a deep scowl.
"I have no idea what you're talking of." Jadeite noticed the concerned look on Damien's features and raised a brow in response.
"Serenity..." Jadeite warned, knowing whatever my brother was worried about would be of some importance.
I looked at both men and smiled. It was one of my signature enigmatic smiles that they could interpret freely. Damien swore quietly under his breath while Jadeite shook his head and smiled, seeing the humour in the situation.
"Why would you acquaint yourself with the Prince of the Earth knowing full well of his reputation."
"Endymion?" Jadeite glanced at Damien then glared at me. "He's trouble Serenity."
"That what they say about you." I snapped.
"He's infamous for the way he lures woman into falling in love with him and then abandoning them. Its all a game to him." I rolled my eyes, and Damien fell silent. A deep sigh escaped his lips and he glanced at Jadeite only to find that his thoughts were the same.
"I don't know why I bother." Damien whispered, exasperated. Jadeite shrugged, running a hand through his golden hair.
"Be careful, I know full well why the man appeals to you. He knows the game a lot better than you do." Jadeite whispered quietly, his eyes locking with mine to make sure I knew the importance of the warning.
"I am quite capable of taking care of myself. There's nothing to worry about." The minute the words left my mouth the two men glanced at each other, knowing very well that they had been right to be concerned.
They were right, he was trouble.
And they knew me far to well.
As I entered Mina's room I couldn't help but smile. Mina was in the corner pulling out a different dress by the minute, while Lita and Rei were sprawled on the lush bed snacking on some cookies. Amy was sitting in a chair with a book in her hand, reading quietly.
It was good to know that some things never change.
The balcony doors were open so a soft breeze flew in accompanied by the lush smell of the sea. For a few moments I just observed them smiling, laughing, a part of me feeling that I no longer deserved to be in their select group. I was so absorbed in my own thoughts that I didn't notice the large expensively embroidered white satin pillow flying towards my face.
"So are you going to keep gawking at us or are you going to come in?" I caught the devilish sparkle in Rei's eyes. I laughed and in reply flung myself on the bed earning an annoyed sneer from Lita and Rei.
"We're timing her. So far she's been at it for fifteen minutes and forty five seconds." Lita whispered nodding in Mina's direction where she was still sifting through clothes, a very worried expression on her face. I couldn't help but smile. Their happiness was contagious.
"If I didn't know better I'd say she was trying to impress someone." At my remark Amy slowly placed the book beside the chair and climbed onto the bed.
"That would be because she is. All through philosophy all she could speak of was your silver haired general and how incredibly dashing he was." She slowly started blinking her eyelashes and making damsel in distress gestures. This brought on another wave of laughter.
"Like you can talk. I heard all those love sick sighs you were making today." Mina replied unexpectedly. Amy went a very interesting shade of red.
"And who has stolen the heart of our ice maiden?" I teased.
"Would you say she could rival a tomato now?" Lita asked smiling at Amy's beat red cheeks.
"What are you going to wear to the masquerade Serenity?" Rei asked casually, taking the attention from our very red friend.
"To tell you the truth it had quite slipped my mind." Rei shook her head and laughed. Some things never changed.
We spent the rest of the day laughing and gossiping and finally getting dressed for dinner. Rei informed me that the Queen made sure that even simple dinners were like small balls. With dancing and so forth. She told me that it was her way of keeping the court around her so no one could organise a rebellion without fearing for their family's safety. I sighed as we made our way to the dinning room.
The minute I entered the room I spotted him. He was unsurprisingly surrounded by women, all competing for his attention. I could feel his eyes running over my body from under his lashes. I looked up and glared at him. An infuriating smile spread across his lips and he slowly nodded his head in my direction. I turned on my heel and walked in the opposite side of the hall.
During dinner I was placed beside a young noble man named Alan. His hair was a sandy blonde, and seemed quite plain when compared to Jadeite's brilliant gold. His complexion was nothing out of the ordinary and his eyes were a common blue. I could see him looking at me from the corner of his eyes and resisted the urge to roll mine. As I glanced around the table I saw that someone had placed Rei and Jadeite side by side. For the first few minutes the two had sat in silence, the waves of anger rolling off them. Then one could hear annoyed whispers and sharp retorts as they glared at each other menacingly. However by the end of the night they had been reduced to childish antics of pushing each others utensils to the floor. It took all my will power to contain my laughter. My gaze caught Malachite's as he hid a laugh behind a cough.
"May I say that you look particularly beautiful tonight." Alan's voice averted my attention away from the amusing pair. I was about to make a harsh retort and destroy his already small ego when I had an idea. A soft smile spread across my face. This would be fun. I returned my attention back to Alan, for a few seconds I stared into his eyes, then turned away and pretended to blush at his words.
It worked like a charm.
Alan almost immediately thrust his chest out and sat regally in his chair. It took all my self control not to laugh at the transparency of the man. After dinner he asked me to dance, and I graciously accepted. I let my gaze fall on Endymion as he lifted a glass of white wine to his lips. He ever so slowly took a sip and lowered the glass, he caught my gaze and lifted a brow, daring me to go further.
In reply I tightened my hold on Alan and let the back of my hand slide across his cheek. I smiled with satisfaction as I noticed Endymion's hold on his glass tighten.
He was good.
I was better.
Or so I thought.
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I was leaving when I felt strong arms wrap around my waist and pull me into a dark corridor. I could feel the cool marble wall pressed into my back, I would have struggled if I had not recognised his presence.
"You're avoiding me." His vice was warm and coarse. I searched his face for emotion but it was obscured in shadows.
"Jealous?" In response he pushed his body a little harder against mine.
"Really Serenity, don't embarrass yourself. You could do so much better than Alan." I could feel his eyes searing into my soul, his proximity obscuring my ability to think coherently.
"And what is wrong with Alan? He's sweet, loyal..."
"Lacks passion, is still nothing much more than a boy." I could feel his face inches away from mine. "You need so much more than that. Admit it." His warm breath caressed the skin of my neck. I closed my eyes trying to stop my body from melting into his embrace.
"He's on the verge on professing his love." I wrapped my arms around his neck, I could hear him chuckling softly. "What do you find so amusing?"
"The fact that he would leave you so easily." I could feel the anger running through my veins at his arrogance.
"Is that so?" I sneered at him pulling slightly away from his embrace. In response he tightened his hold on my waist and pressed me further to into the wall.
"Are you willing to make a wager that he won't?" Even in the dark I could see his eyes gleaming with mischief.
"How much?" I could barely whisper the words.
"A night." His voice was hoarse as he pressed his lips to my collar bone.
"And what would this night involve?" I whispered my hands running down his neck.
"Champagne, liquid chocolate, strawberries..." He whispered each word slowly and huskily in my ear, making his intent all too plain. I could feel the tips of his fingers ever so lightly running along my waist.
"I'll never come willingly." I threw open the gauntlet.
"You will." He pushed me even further into the wall so I could feel every inch of him. A soft moan escaped my lips. "You can." His fingers slowly traced down my neck followed by a trace of hot kisses. "You have." He brought his lips inches from my own, I closed my eyes in anticipation. Instead of his lips crushing on mine I could feel his tongue slowly tracing my lips, he then gently took my lower lip between his own and nibbled on it softly.
When I opened my eyes he was gone. I returned to my room highly strung and unfulfilled.
He was good.
Too good.
"Have you seen Serenity?" Jadeite asked Rei desperately. He had avoided the little she-devil, but no one else knew where his friend was. He had also noticed that the Prince of Earth had disappeared, and that could only mean trouble.
"I think she retired early." Rei replied coldly without so much as looking at him. "And yes, I have reason to believe she is with the Prince." Jadeite swore quietly and headed towards the door when Rei's hand stopped him. The feel of her bare skin on his shot a jolt of electricity through them both. Of course neither party was willing to acknowledge it. His nostrils flared, whether it was from arousal or anger he did not know.
"She knows very well what she is doing. I don't approve of him either. He's a sly one to put it delicately. But you must know as well as I that by telling her your concerns she will only be driven further into his arms." Jadeite stared at her and sighed. He knew well she was right.
"If he hurts her..."
"You'll have to wait in line to kill him." For a moment the two of them smiled at each other but the moment was short lived. Reality reawakened in their senses all too quickly. Rei sneered at him and walked away quickly, angry that she had conversed with him in the friendly manner.
Yet a part of her wondered, if they had met under different circumstances....she didn't continue the trail of thought. The prospects were too painful to accept.
"Is there something you want princess? For I dare say you have been staring at me for the better part of the night." Malachite's voice was low, and he had spoken without turning to see her. Mina bit her lip slowly, she had begun to doubt herself at his words. She had always been confident when it had come to men, yet around him she was no more than warm jelly. She shook her head resisting the urge to stamp her foot in frustration. She would not pursue him unless she knew he also had feelings for her.
"I merely wished to inform you that Jadeite is looking for you." Malachite raised an eyebrow at this. He turned slowly. He would admit that she was a sight for sore eyes. Her lemon blonde hair fell past her shoulders her orange dress clung to her curves like a second skin. He moved closer to her, and decided to test the waters by leaning in closer. He was satisfied when she gasped quietly. He smiled intently as he watched her moving rapidly back into the crowded hall.
May the faiths have mercy on him, for he feared he was already falling for the woman.
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"Endymion." He cringed as he heard the woman drawl his name. He nodded towards the woman. Two days had passed since his conversation with Serenity and this was the only way he could guarantee to win their little bet.
"Beryl." He could not believe that he had returned to her, yet it was necessary.
"What brings you here my Prince?" She whispered huskily letting her fingers not very subtly trace over his chest. He resisted the urge to laugh at her vulgar tactics.
"To inform you that there is a masquerade occurring tonight. Because of our past I thought it necessary to extend an invitation to you, as I am well aware of your hopes of securing a influential position in court."
"That should not be a problem. I could have any noble man wrapped around my finger." Endymion smiled at this. Things were going exactly as he planned.
"Not all Beryl, some men cannot be seduced. Some are far two loyal to fall for your charms." He let his gaze fall down to her chest and then returned it to her face, arching a brow, making his meaning clear.
"Who?" Beryl cried, jumping on the challenge.
"You know I cannot say."
She slowly purred into his ear, while playing with her bright red hair. "Please?"
"Only if you promise not to form any sort of attachment to the man."
"Oh, Endy what do you take me for?"
"Sir Alan Becker, the current fancy of Princess Serenity." He smiled with satisfaction as he could see her sitting quietly calculating her plan.
I'm sure you realise that I was not aware of the events that I have described above at the time. Yet it is of great importance that you are aware of them. For what purpose you ask? Well, you'll just have to read and find out now won't you?
I don't know why but I took particular care with my appearance that night. After hours of deliberation I settled on a white dress with golden embroidery. It was a little more daring then the clothes I usually wore, but I had a point to prove. The white satin gown dipped daringly at the back. My hair was in a messy bun allowing some of the curls to run down my back, directing the eye to the naked flesh. White gloves completed the ensemble. I gently let my fingers run along my mask. It was a simple white with a single diamond tear glistening on its cheek. I could hear a gentle rap on my door and opened it immediately.
"You look ravishing." Jadeite slowly kissed my hand. "I'm beginning to wonder how I ever believed you were a man." I blushed slightly at his comment.
"You don't look too bad yourself." I replied. He was wearing white breeches with a form fitting white shirt. A blood red vest with gold embroidery broke up the white. The upper half of his mask was covered with the same material as his vest. His eyes fell on my mask and he let his hands trail over it, a slight frown on his face.
"Not quite right." He closed his eyes and extended his hand. In a matter of seconds ribbons of silver light formed above his hands. They slowly wove together to form the outline of a mask. In a flash of brilliant white light a new mask lay in Jadeite's hands. This mask was half covered in gold while the other half was a plain white. The gold section had small diamonds placed on it in intricate patterns.
"Its beautiful." He nodded his head and offered me his hand, with that we walked to the ballroom together.
As I entered the ball room my eyes sought and found him immediately. His dark pants accentuated his slim hips while his dark vest and white peasant shirt showed off every taut muscle of his chest. The dark colours emphasised his dark hair and his brilliant sapphire eyes. I could see the mischievous gleam in his eyes. He made his way to through the crowd towards us. When he reached us he slowly nodded his head towards Jadeite, who's hand I could feel tighten around mine.
"May I have the pleasure of this dance my lady?" I nodded and he swiftly led me to the dance floor. He made his way to the maestro, and on his return a tango had started to play. I smiled, his choice was very appropriate indeed. As the music started I felt him pull me against him, his lips inches from my own. Then I span away and he pulled me back pressing me against him once more. As we danced we lost track of time, each of us focusing on gaining the upper hand. Neither of us succeeding.
I was too wrapped up in the moment to notice Alan, or the fact the his eyes were searing into the back of my skull. Nor did I see Beryl slowly move towards him and whisper quietly in his ear.
By the end of the dance we were both out of breath, and on edge. His hands were still tightly wrapped around my waist. His lips edged ever closer to mine.
"Do you have any idea what you do to me?" He whispered heatedly as he ran a finger down the bare skin of my back. It was Damien's rather pronounced cough that broke me out my trance.
For the rest of the night I avoided him.
"Have you seen Alan?" I asked one of the men at the party, he pointed to the stairs. I slowly went up the stairs. As I passed the hallway I noticed that the guests were glancing at me strangely. Some held pity, others amusement. I reached a closed door, slowly I knocked. When nobody answered I moved closer. Even before opening the door I could hear soft moaning from the other side. As I opened the door I immediately saw Alan sprawled over the bed, a woman with blazing red hair above him. I turned away from the vulgar display of affection.
Of course I was not hurt, I had no right to be.
As I was walking away I could hear the sound of Alan's voice, but I did not pay any attention. Why would I? As I descended the stair case a certain prince with cobalt hair and an infuriating smile caught my attention. I straightened my already rigid posture, and moved passed him without a glance. I was not more than a meter past where he had stood when I felt his warm breath on my ear.
"Follow me to the balcony." He didn't wait to witness my reaction but rather passed by me making his way to the designated area. I could feel my blood boil with anger. How dare he presume to tell me what to do?
I don't know why I followed him.
As I reached the balcony, his back was to me. He was staring at the vast kingdom, a delicate crystal wine glass in his hands. He took a sip of the translucent fluid and turned his head towards me.
"When can I collect my reward?" His words were cold, his tone indifferent. I didn't know him well enough then to understand that he was not willing to admit his feelings for me yet. I believe he thought that if he actually bedded me that I would be out of his system. That he would bore of me, just as he had with all of his other women.
I believed the same thing, and I was not willing to take the risk.
"I am not your whore Endymion!" I whispered the words furiously. He turned away from me and a deep sigh escaped his lips.
"No, you are not." His face was inches from my own with a few strides. "You are my tormentor, my agony, my curse." He cupped my face in both his hands. "Why do you taunt me thus?" He pressed his lips harshly against my own, his arms pulling me into his brutal embrace. All the frustration and confusion was unleashed in the single kiss. He pulled away, as out of breath as I was. "Will you honour our bet?"
"I gave you no word."
"You cannot resist me forever."
"Try me." With that I spun on my heel and made started to make my way back to the ball room. He grabbed my hand and pulled me back into his embrace pressing every inch of his body against my own.
"You do realise chère, that this means war." I smirked at him. I was not scared of the man.
But then again perhaps I should have been.
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What I am about to describe here is an event that I had no knowledge of at the time it occurred. If I had my tale would have been quite different. But this is what I understand occurred.
A few days had passed since the disagreement between myself and Endymion. He had deliberated with himself for hours for the actions he was about to take, but he had assured himself that what he was about to do was indeed, the right thing. Slowly he raised his hand and gently knocked on the heavy oak door.
"Come." The voice was called. For a minute he hesitated but his pride took control and he opened the door with his head held high. He bowed low to the Queen, aware that she was assessing him with her eyes. Her beauty was unmatched, as was her cold demeanour. She nodded towards a large leather chair. He accepted the invitation and sat down.
"To what do I owe this honour?" The Queen asked, her tone disinterested.
"I have come to discuss your daughter." The change in the Queen was instantaneous.
"What of my daughter?" The Queen asked, her curiosity gained.
"I wish to marry her, in order to secure the alliance between the Earth and the Moon." The Queen stared at him for many moments, considering his sanity. She was suspicious immediately.
"And what am I to do with this?"
"I have reason to believe that the princess would not consent to such an arrangement. I am well aware that you have certain ways of persuading her into such an alliance."
"And what will I gain from this?"
"You will be rid of a daughter you have always disliked. Further, I shall make sure to not revel certain information about the Moon's treasury and how the gold seems to be going to a particular whore house, in which I am informed you seek solace." She glared at him, her countenance dripping with rage. She opened her mouth to yell but before she could her lips curved into a delicate smile.
"Perhaps we could come to an arrangement."
A smile danced on his lips, all was going to plan.