I can't believe were at the end of this story. I know a lot of you are going to be surprised and downright angry about the ending. (believe me none of you never saw this coming) However that being said, there won't be a sequal and there won't be an alternative ending. I really hoped you've all enjoyed this story, cause it has been an absolute privilege to share my writing with you all. Thankyou always.
This is the edited version!!
To: Eo, Sere Emberwave, Anhthy, hit60, Princess of the Saiyans 16, hopester002, SilentStar-009, serena-girl, Aithne, SilverMo, lyss-ling, Analiy, llixit-vi3t, Edens-MoonlightAngel, Twighunter, Hopeless Dreamer 1125, Jasmine Deliria, tiffany, hopester002, Taylor9.0, Sailor-Nekawaii: Well, what can I say, there's certainly no love lost for Seiya, not that I can blame you he can be such a wimp can't he? I want to thank you all (especially sere embrewave, Sailor-Nekawaii and silverMo u 3 have been there from the very beginning) I really hope you enjoy the final instalment and I hope I haven't kept you waiting for too long. Love you all heaps and thanks for all your support.
To:venusgoddess: Hey, I wanted to give you a special thankyou as it means a lot to me that you would track my story all the way to a different site. Love you heaps and thanks. Once again I hope I haven't kept you waiting for too long.
To stargirl: I really like the fact that you like Damien, as he's the only character that's completely mine. So thankyou heaps for that, but as for a role in this chapter..i'm not sure if your not going to be disappointed, and if you are then I do apologise. And I do agree with you, Seiya is what Serenity needs at the moment. Love you heaps and thanks for the review.
To fioremaryssa: Lol, well you would have quite a point if Serena did start sleeping with other men, so I agree with you on that completely. As for Seiya, he definitely is a sissy, I think you'll enjoy this chapter, I really hope that you do. Thanks for everything and all your support.
To Water Miko Sera Pisces: don't worry, I'll update on Aria as well, I know I've been slack with updates on that site and I apologise. As for chibi usa-well she never did sit right with me, I mean I don't know I was pictured Serenity with a little baby boy. Thanks for your review!
To Mila: I really hope everything's okay with you, I mean I could be wrong but I detected a cynicism in your review and yeah. Review whenever you have time and smile woman!
To SilverWolf2105: Lol, not a Seiya fan are we? Don't worry that makes two of us and your right, Endy's Serenity's and she's with Seiya out of spite, the question is will she figure that out? Hehe, I'm evil lol. Joins in the chorus for "the Queens going to die" another one of my least favourite characters..lol. As for Lita, well she may just come to her senses. As for Damien, you can't expect too much from him, I mean he's a thinker not a dooer, the complete opposite of his sister. Well I haven't received any death threats yet and that's always a good sign right. Although I'm not sure what your reaction will be at the end of the chapter. Feel free to express any feeling in a review or flame..either way I'm happy. Love you heaps, and thank you for everything.
To Deadly Diva: My dearest and most loyal reviewer. What can I say but thankyou a million times. You have been such an inspiration to me and I always wait expectantly for your reviews. We will defiantly keep in touch after this fic. As for Diamond and Beryl..well no, I really didn't have time to explore that in this chapter..i mean it's the longest chapter I've ever written!! Yes the end will come in Sirocco, and I think your right on both your predictions-even the latter which you don't want. Sadly, that was the end of Luna, she won't be making an appearance in this chapter. I do know what you want, and you will receive it in a way. Your right, prepare for fireworks for there shall be many! My dear it has been my pleasure to share my writing for you-although I really don't know how you'll react to the ending. Anyhow, enjoy and thankyou heaps for all the support you've given me.
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The greatest challenge of life is allowing the heart to coincide with the mind.
-From the Diary of Aura Serenity II, Princess of the Moon and Earth, Leader of the Promised Knights.
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Serenity ran a hand along her forehead, removing the beads of sweat that had accumulated there. A smile curved on her lips as she allowed the rays of the sun to warm her soft features. She took another blouse from her basket and dipped it into the cold waters of the stream, thankful that the last of the week's laundry had finally been finished. She replaced the clean, yet wet, clothes into her woven basket before resuming her path back to Sirocco. She hummed softly. For some unknown reason she was at peace.
The truth was Seiya had given her everything a girl could ever dream of—everything that she had believed she desired for so long; comfort, stability and respect. He was a gentleman in every way, respectable, noble and....utterly boring. She blew away a stray strand of hair that had fallen into her face in a very unladylike fashion. Men, she thought bitterly, they always had a tendency to ruin her most peaceful moments. She would marry Seiya-of that there was no question. She had given her word and her character was one that had been designed to hold a stubborn nature. It would take a miracle to prevent her from fulfilling her word.
A small part of her mind provided the omniscient reminder that her previous husband was capable of providing just that.
She pushed thoughts of Endymion out of her mind almost immediately. She refused to think of him, to consider what would occur if he discovered Darien's existence. Yet in true ironic fashion he was perhaps the only ever present element that lingered in her thoughts, during every hour of every day.
A deep sigh escaped her lips as she made her way to Molly's house. She knocked gently on the soft oak door that was well past its prime. She could not help but smile as Molly opened to door; the world could be scattered to ashes but Molly's appearance would never alter. A stained apron was tied around her slim waist, while a conservative floral print dress covered the rest of her body. Her hair was around her shoulders, flowing in a similar motion to that of the waves.
"Serena, I'm so glad you're here," Molly whispered quietly, her eyes glowing with its ever present warmth. She was truly an old soul contained within a young being.
"He's been that much trouble has he?" Serenity replied chuckling quietly, her comment caused Molly to laugh as she ushered Serenity in.
"He's been asleep most of the time, and when he was awake he was to busy staring at this and that to cause any real trouble." They entered the adjacent room. Darien was sitting in the middle of the somewhat unfurnished room (to prevent any injuries to the young ones Molly looked after). It seemed he had just discovered a ball. The two women watched fascinated as he pushed the ball away from him and squealed in delight as it rolled across the wooden floor. He then crawled towards it, took it in his chubby fingers, and shook it up and down with remarkable glee.
Serenity practically raced towards him, and cradled him in her arms, placing numerous kisses on his cheeks. She pulled Darien into a tighter embrace as she once again remembered that he was the only thing preventing her from falling into an abyss of solitude and isolation. Her attention was diverted when Molly insisted that she join her for tea, a request that Serenity could not refuse. The two women sat on the humble chairs, with Darien playing at his mother's feet, discussing the recent gossip.
"Oh my, have you heard; it is undoubtedly the single most extraordinary event that is to take place in our little town." Molly gushed, her face lighting up noticeably.
"Do not keep me in suspense." Serenity replied, placing her cup into its saucer and glancing at Molly curiously.
"Well it is rumoured that the Promised Knights themselves shall be making a visit. Seiya told me that they will arrive tomorrow no less. We are planning on throwing a grand banquet in their honour." Serenity's very features drained of all colour at Molly's words. It seemed that she had forgotten how one breathed.
"Is anyone else accompanying them?" She asked quietly, closing her eyes and trying to maintain a calm, if not indifferent, demeanour. She bit her lip in the realisation that the stability she had acquired was suddenly sprawling away from her at an unprecedented speed.
"I believe that there was something about a group of Ladies, quite distinguished in some fashion but I cannot recall in what." Serenity let out a sigh of relief, her heart once again resuming a healthy rate.
"Oh yes, how could I forget-the prince of Earth is also with them." A cry of horror escaped Serenity's lips, as her insides literally began to burn with pain. The very thought of Endymion coming to Sirocco sent chills down her spine and caused tears to form in her eyes. Molly placed a hand on her shoulder, her eyes clouded with worry.
"Serena, are you alright?" It took her many moments to regain the ability to think coherently. She smiled shakily at Molly and nodded.
"Perhaps I have stayed out too long today-we should really be going, thank you once again Molly." She answered hurriedly, pulling Molly into a warm embrace. She then gathered Darien's things, and they went home.
A deep sigh escaped her lips as she closed the door to her and Seiya's shared house. She gently walked towards Darien's room and laid him in his crib. She flung herself on one of the chairs in the living room and began rubbing her temples.
She had to figure out a way to stop Endymion from finding her.
"Think, Serenity." She whispered quietly to herself as her mind began the process of coming up with a plan. Her eyes lit up and a mischievous smile formed on her lips. She was good.
But perhaps not as good as she thought.
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The legendary Knights were sitting proudly on their mighty steeds, their eyes alert and their demeanour clearly indicating the power that each held, as they made their way to Sirocco. Damien steered his horse to fall in line with Malachite's.
"I believe I have a plan." Damien's words immediately caught Malachite's attention as he gazed at Damien with plain curiosity.
"A plan attempting to..."
"Retrieve Serenity." The enthusiasm in Malachite died instantly. A deep sigh escaped his lips, as he shook his head slightly, causing his long silver hair to catch the wind. Yet he did not shatter Damien's pride. He nodded his head, indicating that he was willing to listen.
"Serenity knows that I was never meant to rule." Malachite was about to protest but Damien stopped him. "I know it as well as anyone else, Malachite. I am a thinker, an idealist. I was meant to heal, not to lead. I could take the throne and then abdicate. Serenity will be outraged by what I have done and return; she would not risk a power struggle in her country." Malachite sighed deeply. Damien was one of the most intelligent men in his acquaintance, yet his deep desire to find Serenity had started to infringe on his judgement.
"You know as well as I that if Serenity returns it will not be because of her country. She believes that we will be able to handle what ever situation may arrive; it pains me to admit that she was not right. Unless she has been reading our minds, there is a great chance that she would not be aware of the Queen's illness. We cannot risk the stability of the country on a 'what if.' It holds far too much risk." Damien nodded his head, his melancholy clear.
"For now let us hope that she is safe, and that she will return soon." Malachite whispered gently, attempting to soothe Damien yet it was of no use. Making a rather poor excuse about a problem associated with finances, Damien allowed his horse to fall back in an attempt to seek the company of Zoicite.
"Another plan to retrieve Serenity?" Nephrite asked gently, Malachite merely nodded. He glanced at Nephrite and thanked the lords one more time for him, for the two had formed a tight bond based on their ability to understand each other.
"It is the fourth this week." It was Nephrite's turn to shake his head. "I don't know how much longer he'll be able to survive without her." Malachite whispered, his voice barely audible. Although he was not one to openly show his emotions, the emotional and physical burdens were beginning to affect even him.
"Let us hope that we shall never have to find out."
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"You did not have to wait up for me, love." Seiya whispered quietly as he steeped into his home. He walked towards Serenity and gently placed a soft kiss on her forehead.
"I wanted to discuss a matter with you." Seeing the anxiety in her eyes, he quickly removed his hat and cloak and joined her, taking a seat on an adjacent chair.
"What is it? Are you well? Is everything alright with Darien?" Serenity gently bit her lower lip and nodded. Seiya placed a hand on Serenity's shoulder, his face clouding with genuine concern.
"I'm restless. I wish to get out for a while-you've wanted to take Darien on a camping expedition for the longest time. Why don't we go now? Tonight?" Seiya was puzzled to say the least by her sudden request.
"There is no need to be restless-I have the most exciting news for you."
"I have already heard." She whispered anxiously, looking away from his piercing gaze.
"Then you must be aware that I am obliged to meet the Prince and the Knights. Come, Serena, you should be excited; our little town is to be graced with the presence of great warriors." Serenity closed her eyes, hesitating for a moment. She had denied Seiya intimacy of any physical nature. They had shared a kiss once. It had left her feeling, quite simply, nothing. Yet it was the only way to ascertain that Endymion and the Knights would not find her. She cursed the Fates for the hundredth time.
Did they always have to be against her? Could they not just allow her to fall in love with Seiya?
"Seiya-I want us to finally be alone so we can..." She let the words trail on her lips and turned away in a fake gesture of embarrassment. Seiya slowly ran his fingers along her jaw line and turned her face towards him. He had been waiting for months for her to grant him more than just companionship, for her to accept him as a lover. He nodded slowly, not willing to risk losing his opportunity.
"Leave Darien with Molly, go up to the woods, the place where I took you for a picnic last week, set camp there and I shall join you later in the night." Serenity nodded slowly, and moved to pack Darien's things.
She prayed to God that her plan would work.
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Seiya waited patiently by the village gates. The whole town had been lit alight in honour of the Knights. Music could be heard from every corner of the village and the young ones were dancing with merriment clear on their faces. Cheers were heard all around as the guests of honour finally arrived. As the group drew closer gasps of awe could be heard, not only at the rich quality of their clothes, but at the beauty of the women who accompanied them.
"Your hospitality is quite overwhelming. We are honoured to receive such a welcome." A man at the head of the party with shoulder-length hair declared loudly, nodding his head towards the villagers in a show of respect. He dismounted his horse and made his way to Seiya.
"I am Malachite, leader of the Galaxy Knights." He extended his hand politely. Seiya grasped it tightly and gave him a firm handshake.
"I am Seiya, mayor of the village Sirocco. It is truly a privilege to make your acquaintance." Seiya replied bowing respectfully to Malachite.
"We are honoured and most grateful that you would give us such a banquet, yet my men are tired-especially the women who have been travelling with us. Would you be offended if we asked to retire for the night?" Malachite asked, placing a hand on Seiya's shoulder in comradeship.
"Of course, my lord, please follow me-we have had huts prepared." Malachite thanked Seiya. The rest of the group dismounted and followed Seiya to their respective huts. The women all retired, yet the men all gathered in a single hut. The villagers were not in the least unfazed, the very presence of the Knights causing even more mirth to beat in their hearts. Their festivities continued well into the night.
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"How can an entire army vanish without a trace? They are here in the woods. Of that there is no question-yet there is not a single overturned leaf that would give away their presence" Nephrite growled slamming his fist on the table to relieve his frustrations. Malachite leaned back in his chair. The Knights had spent many hours pouring over a worn map that had accumulated a rustic hue. He ran a hand through his hair in an attempt to persuade his mind to resume its functions.
"When are we expecting them to attack?" Malachite asked wearily, glancing towards Zoicite.
"Tomorrow morn, noon by the latest." A deep sigh escaped Malachite's lips; his shoulders were starting to sag in defeat.
"I have roused a number of troops and instructed them to take posts here, here and here." Jadeite stated, pointing to various locations on the map. "If they are able to hold their positions, the enemy has no way of entering the village." Malachite nodded and glanced gratefully at Jadeite.
"I can scout the local woods in search for the army." Endymion stated quietly. Malachite merely shook his head with disagreement.
"No, I need you to command a number of troops within the village. If something should go wrong, you and the scouts would be their only means of defence." Endymion nodded, accepting Malachite's command.
"I believe it is best if we retire-we have been riding for two days and should strive to attain even the smallest amount of sleep." The others nodded in agreement as they each retired to their private huts.
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Seiya raced up to where his love was waiting for him. His heart stopped as his gaze fell on her. She was sitting on a cliff's edge, her hair falling around her shoulders as she gazed towards the lush forests and serene river that ran miles below. He walked up slowly to her and pulled her into his embrace. She turned to face him, a small smile playing on her lips.
He gently brought his lips down onto hers, somewhat unsure of himself. He pressed their bodies close together, causing the locket that hung around her neck to dig into her skin. A small gasp escaped her lips.
Seiya broke the kiss and gazed down on her, a deep sigh escaped his lips. He slowly rubbed his thumb against her cheek, wiping the single tear that had escaped from her eye. He gently brushed the back of his hand against the side of her face in a gesture that was so tender it almost shattered her entire will to keep her true identity from him.
"We do not need to rush, my love. We have the rest of our lives to relish in each other's company." Serenity thanked him quietly as he led her into the tent. They spent the rest of the night sleeping platonically in each other's arms.
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Nephrite stared at the door of the hut, anxiety had never gripped his form with the intensity that it did in those short few minutes. He swore quietly and ran a hand through his hair, cursing himself for his own cowardice before entering the hut. For long moments he merely stared at her in awe, his senses seeming to have forgotten how to react to stimulus. Slowly his body started to regain momentum. It reacted almost violently to the sight of her body wrapped in nothing but flimsy transparent material.
He slowly walked towards her bed, his entire body trembling with anticipation and, even though he would not admit it, the fear of rejection. He allowed the tips of his fingertips to trail along the subtle skin of her arms, causing her to shiver. He gently placed his lips against her neck and kissed a path down to her collar bone. The minute she awoke, her body tensed and her hands pushed him away with fear.
"It is me Lita, it's just me." She glanced at him confused and gathered the bed sheets around her body.
"What are you doing here?" She asked, her voice slightly shaking. He gently ran the back of his hand along her cheek and then through her chocolate curls.
"If you want me to leave I will. But I ask you to first allow me to say my piece." She nodded slowly, indicating that she was willing to allow him to continue.
"I have reason to believe that one of us will not survive to see the next sunset." Lita bolted upright. Nephrite quickly placed a finger on her lips to prevent her from speaking. She gently took his hand and squeezed it reassuringly to help him continue as she witnessed the tears that were accumulating his eyes.
"I have pleaded and begged yet they will not hear my pleas. They insist on keeping their secrecy; they seem to insist that I go through this torment. There shall be a battle tomorrow, and there is every chance that I shall be the one who will not survive."
"Don't say that." Lita whispered, tears threatening to fall from her eyes. He gazed at her defiantly.
"I pray that it is me who will leave. I cannot bear to watch one of my comrades fall. They are my life, Lita. They are a part of my soul." He stopped, closing his eyes attempting to once again regain his composure. "Lita, if this is to be my last night on this gracious earth, then there would be no greater honour then spending it in your arms." He kissed her ever so gently, pouring his need into that single kiss. The tears fell from their eyes in unison mingling together on their cheeks. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him closer to her.
"I want you to stay-I want you to be with me." She whispered quietly, gazing at him from lowered eyelashes. He merely acknowledged her words with another kiss, this one a lot hungrier than the one before. Followed by another and another-as he began showing her the pleasures that were only experienced at night.
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Malachite woke with a start; he quickly pulled on his clothes and raced outside, every instinct of his body was on edge. His heart rate increased at a dangerous rate as he witnessed Diamond's army launching their attack. They had been expecting around 5000 troops. The army before him was at least ten times larger. He quickly called telepathically to the other Knights. He grabbed his sword and mounted his hoarse moving rapidly towards the battleground. The village was in disarray; women were screaming while men were asking what they were to do. He barked orders to the men. Within seconds Jadeite was beside him, his clothes barely on his body.
"There are at least 50,000 men here. We need reinforcements!" Jadeite cried, staring in amazement towards the troops. It was a rare feat indeed for an enemy to be able to deceive Zoicite. Such an occurrence could only have one meaning.
Trouble.
"Will you be able to lead the troops while I'm gone?" Malachite asked. Jadeite knew that the current situation had caused great fear in Malachite, yet a stranger would think that he was completely composed. Jadeite expressed his agreement and within a moment Malachite had teleported back to the palace in order to bring reinforcements.
Jadeite charged towards the enemy, through a multitude of swords, men and shields. His instincts, which had been tuned by training, were the only things controlling his actions. He dismembered men with his sword while incinerating many others with energy bolts.
"Evacuate the city, bring any local guards to the outskirts-we may need them." Jadeite ordered Endymion telepathically. He glanced over his shoulder in time to witness Nephrite's eyes change colour as he began his chanting.
Moments later griffons and dragons appeared in the sky and roared with such conviction that they in no way appeared to be illusions. Many of Diamond's forces simply dropped their swords and ran upon seeing the mythical beasts. He glanced worriedly at Nephrite. Jadeite knew that the attack would have drained Nephrite and was concerned when he immediately began fighting the enemy manually.
Zoicite and Damien were fighting side by side, ruthlessly thrusting their swords into the bodies of the enemy in an attempt to push them back into the depths of the forest. A swift swish caught Jadeite's attention. He glanced up in time to see that a multitude of arrows had been launched. He quickly harnessed his power to create a force field around the troops. Beads of sweat began to accumulate on his forehead and his breathing became increasingly rapid as he attempted to maintain the force fields and fight effectively with a sword simultaneously.
Jadeite glanced at his comrades; they were all tiring yet Diamond's forces had not been moved back sufficiently. He looked to the skies and for the first time in years uttered a prayer.
Nephrite had been right.
This could well be their end.
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The minute Serenity opened her eyes she knew that something was very wrong. She bit down on her lip in an attempt to prevent herself from crying as a series of powerful power surges went through her being. Once outside the tent, her heart stopped as she saw smoke coming from the village. She screamed at Seiya to get up and within an instant they were on their way back to Sirocco.
The force of the magic present even in the outskirts of Sirocco was overwhelming. She dismounted and ran towards the battlefront.
What on earth had happened to her Knights?
Their formation was almost non-existent. Everyone except for Malachite was present, which meant that they had not accounted for secondary attacks and why in God's name was Damien on the battlefield? In front of her very eyes Jadeite lost consciousness and fell from his horse-from harnessing too much energy no doubt. All time seemed to stop as a foot soldier above Jadeite raised his sword-ready to sever Jadeite's head.
Serenity unleashed all the power that had been accumulating in her being from the past year. The enemy forces surrounding her Knights for miles were incinerated instantly from the force of the energy attack. She stood motionless as Damien raced to Jadeite's side and began healing him. Serenity glanced up only to be confronted with the piercing glares of Nephrite and Zoicite-yet neither uttered a word.
A flicker of flame caught her attention. Serenity's entire being suddenly became drenched in cold sweet as she observed that a small hut on the outskirts of the village had been set alight. Tears poured down her cheeks as her heart slammed with such a ferocity against her chest that she feared it would break out of her ribcage. Only one coherent thought was running through her mind.
Darien.
She ran towards the Molly's house, yet strong arms wrapped around her waist and pulled her into a hard chest. She beat against the man that was holding her away from her child, yet she was so mentally distraught that her physical strength had become minute in comparison to her captor's. She screamed Darien's name with such a conviction that it left her body reeling. Yet her captor's grip only tightened on her as he shook her viciously.
"He's not worth it, Serenity. He's not worth your life." His voice broke through her thoughts like a hot knife through butter. She glanced up only to be faced with Endymion's stormy blue eyes. His words gave her back a portion of her rationality. She pushed him away almost violently.
"He's your son, you fool!" She cried without thinking. The shock at her words caused Endymion to release his grip on her completely-not missing the opportunity she began to race towards the burning hut. She was about to leap into the flames when a voice stopped her.
"SERENA!" Serenity turned, and immediately relief washed over her as she realised that Molly had been the one to call her name. She raced towards Molly and practically yanked Darien from her arms. Serenity held him close to her chest and whispered a thousand thank-you's while drowning the small toddler in kisses.
Seiya, once spotting them, made his way towards them and embraced Serenity and Damien tightly. He brushed away the grime and sweat that had accumulated on Serenity's features with his hands, gently caressing her features. Then he proceeded to kiss her quite intimately.
Endymion closed his eyes and turned away, not being able to watch as another man kissed his wife. Tears formed in his eyes as his heart was slowly ripped to shreds. Damn her. He clenched his jaw, as an anger that knew no bounds consumed him. He glanced back at the new couple, yet it seemed that Serenity had lost consciousness in the man's arms.
"Take that woman to my hut, and place her on my bed." Endymion commanded harshly to two nearby soldiers. "Find a crib and bring it and the child to my chambers also." He continued glaring at Molly. Seiya got up and blocked the passage of the troops.
"No, she is my fiancée." The words were a last straw for Endymion. He walked towards Seiya, grabbed him by the collar and crushed him against a wall with such a ferocity that could have shattered Seiya's bones.
"Do you have the slightest inkling who that woman is?" Seiya could utter no coherent response as his entire being was trembling with fear. With good reason, considering that Endymion's eyes had darkened into a midnight black, while the anger present on his face could make the devil himself flee to the fires of hell in hopes of finding safety.
"She is Serenity Aura II, Princess of the Moon Kingdom and my wife." He spat the last words at Seiya, before releasing him, causing Seiya to fall to Endymion's feet in a pathetic mass.
"You are to leave this town within the next hour. I shall make enquiries to provide you with a job elsewhere. If you ever enter my sight again I shall rip you limb from limb with my bare hands." For a few moments Seiya merely stared at Endymion, dumbfound. Few men had the courage to face the anger of a man with such obvious power. Seiya was not one of those men.
"Did I not tell you to leave?" Endymion growled, his eyes narrowing dangerously. Seiya shakily got to his feet, mounted the nearest horse and fled the village.
Endymion watched Seiya leave Sirocco before making his way towards his hut. As he reached the door, Malachite materialised before him. His hair was out of place, and his features were pale, undoubtedly because of the energy he had lost. He did not have to utter a word for Endymion to comprehend the question present in his longing eyes. He nodded his head slowly.
"Yes, I've found Serenity." The relief on Malachite's features was something that Endymion had never witnessed before. "Find Damien and bring him to me. No one else is to disturb us." With that he entered the hut.
Damien burst through the doors only minutes later. He had obviously ran to the hut as he was quite out of breath. For long moments he merely stared at Serenity's unmoving form, then a single tear fell from his eye. He walked towards her and examined her slowly. He was treating her in such a delicate manner that one would be forgiven for thinking that she was made of glass.
"She'll be fine, just a little loss of energy." He whispered quietly, as he gently caressed the back of his hand against her cheek. "You should come out and eat. You need the strength."
"I will not allow her to leave my sight." Endymion replied simply. Damien merely nodded his head and left. Even though he did not want to leave his sister he knew that Endymion and her needed time to sort things out. Endymion was siting in an angular oak chair adjacent to the bed. One of his legs was crossed over another, and his hands were tightly clasping each other. He kept his hands tightly clenched as he was uncertain whether he would throttle her or ravish her if his hands were free. He was furious-that was undeniable. He felt nothing but contempt, anger and lust towards her. He swore quietly, even amidst all the pain he could only think of her body. He sat in silence and continued to stare at the woman he had searched the world for.
He raised an eyebrow as he saw her stir and leaned back into his chair with his characteristic arrogance.
"Wake up and face me, Serenity." He uttered the words harshly.
"Darien" was the first word that sprung out of her mouth as she regained consciousness.
"He's safe, sleeping in the next room." Endymion uttered quietly, he took a deep breath as he attempted to control his senses. It seemed that he lost all self control once he was in her company.
"Seiya, where is he?" She asked quietly as she sat up in bed. For long moments he merely studied her appearance. She had become more radiant since the last time he had seen her. Her blonde hair had been sun-kissed to what seemed pale silver, while her skin now carried an olive hue. Something in her entire countenance had changed, something that he could not yet place.
"I ordered him to leave." Endymion replied coldly, his eyes once again darkening with anger at the very mention of the name.
"You had no right. He was my fiancé." Serenity growled, getting up from the bed, and glaring at him from across the room. Endymion in turned moved closer to her, rooting her to her place with the intensity of his glare.
"It is very interesting that you can have a fiancé, considering you still have a husband."
"You have some nerve. You lied to me, cheated on me with a cheap trollop and still have the presumption-"
"Is Darien my child?" Endymion interrupted sharply. Serenity wanted desperately to avoid his piercing gaze, but the anger present in his eyes prevented her from turning away. She bit her lower lip slowly and for a moment hesitated.
"Yes." She had whispered the word so quietly that she was unsure if he had heard it.
"And you kept him from me." Endymion whispered, his voice shaking.
"I was going to tell you on the night of Amy's wedding-I found Beryl's note." She pushed back tears from her eyes and fought to keep her voice steady. "Are you satisfied now? You accomplished your goal-to get me pregnant." She bit out harshly masking the pain and regret with anger. Yet he saw through the façade easily.
"You were going to let another man raise my child based on an assumption." He yelled violently, loosing his temper for the first time during their discourse.
"You could not even stay loyal for a few short months. I deserve better-Darien deserves better than you!" Serenity spit out, raising her voice to match his.
"You're right, he deserves far better than a mother like you, who would put pride before the welfare of her own child!" He was immensely satisfied as he saw the deep hurt that immerged in her eyes because of his words. He turned away trying to regain his temper yet a sparkle caught his eye. The anger consumed him like a raging flood as he saw Seiya's engagement ring on her finger.
"Take his god damn ring off your finger." He whispered harshly, his eyes narrowing dangerously.
"Why should I do a thing you say." She bit back, matching his rage with her own.
"Because I haven't touched Beryl-or anyone else since I married you." She merely stared at him dumbfound. She looked away from him, not being able to bear the pain that was present in his eyes. She opened her mouth to reply but Darien's cry stopped her. She closed her eyes and regained her composure before walking into Darien's room.
She gently cradled the crying toddler in her arms and started humming softly in his ear. Endymion slowly leaned against the doorframe, and watched mystified by the image of his wife comforting their child. A small smile formed itself on his lips as he witnessed the change in her expression as she soothed Darien. He was almost jealous of the way she loved him so inveterately.
"Can I hold him?" He asked quietly, almost unsure of himself. Serenity slowly walked over to him and gently transferred Darien to his father's arms. She smiled slowly at the bewildered expression on Endymion's face. Her heart broke when he pulled Darien into a tight embrace and rested his chin against Darien's head, a single tear escaping from his eyes. Serenity bit down on her lip tightly to stop it from quivering and walked out of the room-not being able to stand his pain and not wanting him to witness her own.
She walked out into the living room and slowly wrapped her arms around herself. Goosebumps had formed on her arms, not as a response to the brisk autumn air but the hurt that had frozen her insides. A deep sigh escaped her lips as she glanced up towards the heavens. She had known Endymion long enough to know that he wasn't lying about Beryl. But that didn't change what he had done to her father.
She felt strong arms wrap around her and pull her against a hard chest. For a reason unbeknown to her she let herself relax in his arms and slowly rested her head against his shoulder. She felt his hold tighten around her. In response she turned her head slightly only to see that he had closed his eyes, trying to ascertain that this wasn't a dream.
"I've spent months wishing for this moment. I searched every village, almost cut down the entire forest to find you." She could no longer hold the tears back as she heard the excruciating pain in his voice. Yet at the same time his close proximity had awoken something else in her, a passion that she had believed had died long ago. He gently turned her around so that she was facing him.
"I cannot forgive you for what you have done, Serenity." He whispered quietly, his voice lacked the anger and resentment that was present only moments before.
"And I cannot forget what you have done in the past." She replied, glancing up into his eyes.
Neither knew that they had already accomplished what they had declared impossible.
Endymion slowly ran the tips of his fingers across her shoulders, a smile grew on his lips and hope warmed his heart as he saw her blush slightly and intake sharply at his touch. He trailed his fingers down her arms, enjoying her response to him.
"At least your body never forgot me." He whispered quietly. She looked up at him-she opened her mouth to retort but Endymion silenced her with a soft lingering kiss that awoke in both of them the passion that had been lying dormant for far too long.
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
"Do you think they finally killed each other?" Jadeite commented, half seriously. He was replied with a sharp whack to his chest. He glared at Raye, rubbing the spot where she had lashed out and pretended to be in a great deal more pain than he really was. She merely rolled her eyes at him-but deep down she was glad that his cold exterior had almost entirely faded away. But she too was getting anxious at the silence that had followed the yelling coming from Endymion's hut.
"I can't believe we've finally found her, Jadeite." Jadeite wrapped an arm around his fiancée and pulled her closer to him.
"Yeah, I know exactly what you mean."
"Do you think we should see what's going on?" She asked, growing more worried by the minute.
"Absolutely not." The lovers turned around on hearing Malachite's voice. "You may walk in on a rather intimate moment."
"Do you really think they'd be able to sort things out?" Rei asked, hope sparkling in her eyes.
"If I know Serenity and Endymion, they'll always have something to work out. Both of them are as stubborn as mules. I also know how much they've longed for each other-either that or they really have killed each other." Malachite replied, smiling gently.
"Yes, I believe you're right." Rei replied, smiling warmly at Malachite, causing Jadeite to pinch her gently. Malachite chuckled at the two's antics before excusing himself to go search for Mina.
When he finally found her she was sitting by a lake, her golden hair falling over her eyes gently. For a moment all he could do was stare at her in awe. She seemed to notice his intense gaze and turned. On seeing him she blushed slightly and stood up, brushing off her dress.
"Please, don't let me disturb you." Malachite whispered, still taking her in. His new responsibilities had kept him away from her for far too long. He gently took her hand and brushed his lips against her knuckles.
"It is really no disturbance at all-I was just about to come in search of company." She replied lightly, smiling at him in an almost angelic fashion.
"Mina, I know I haven't been around-"
"You have had immense responsibilities. It is quite understandable." She cut him off, slowly walking away from him. He slowly grabbed her hand and pulled her around to face him once more. He placed a hand under her chin and tilted her face up so that she was gazing into his eyes.
"It is not understandable, nor is it excusable." He kissed her lightly on the cheek. "I want to spend the rest of my life making it up to you, Mina." A stunned expression fell on her face as he fell to one knee. She could feel her heart pounding against her chest and tears were streaming down her eyes.
"Will you give me the great honour and privilege of being your husband?" He whispered quietly. Happiness had filled her being to such an extent that it had destroyed her speech capacities. She nodded her head vigorously, as her hand fell across her mouth. Malachite slowly slipped the gold ring on her finger. He then picked her up with ease and spun her around.
"You have made me the happiest man alive." He whispered the words between kisses, before the two made their way back to the camp to make the good news known to all.
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
Serenity slowly wrapped her arms around Endymion and deepened the kiss. He wrapped his arms around her waist and tightened his hold on her, causing her to moan quietly. He gently broke the kiss and took hold of her hand. He slowly removed Seiya's ring from her long finger and then took out the chain that was resting around his neck.
"You kept it." Serenity whispered quietly, fingering the chain that carried her wedding ring. He took the ring off the chain and put it on her finger, an infuriating smile dancing on his sensual lips.
"Of course I kept it." He whispered, just before he picked her up and gently walked her over to the bed. He ran the back of his hand against her cheek and slowly kissed every curve of her face.
"I need you to surrender to me Serenity, heart, mind, body and soul; because you already have all of me." Serenity did not answer but merely kissed him once again. He broke the kiss and started his journey downward, a smile of pure arrogance on his lips.
"You challenge me, Serenity." He whispered quietly. "I shall not be merciful." She glanced up at him. This was the man who shared her soul; this man carried more passion in a single caress than Seiya did in his entire being.
"You shall never win." She whispered breathlessly as his lips moved down her neck. His fingertips trailed over every contour of her body, exploring every curve, a path that was soon followed by his lips. Serenity started whimpering below him. She had forgotten how good Endymion was with his hands... his lips. He was torturing her through pleasure, building her up. She closed her eyes tightly and bit down on her lip, she would not beg for release.
"Do you surrender, Chéri?" She looked up at him with a new sincerity as he once again used her pet name. She shook her head slowly, indicating that she did not.
"I was hoping you would say that." Serenity gasped almost violently as he gave her release, her entire body was shaking from the force of the pleasure that had swept through her body. She allowed her head to drown in the pillow comfortably. That was until Endymion once again began his onslaught on her senses.
"Endymion." He gazed into her eyes-he knew that she would never readily surrender to him. Yet there was more than tenderness in her eyes and he could not help but smile. He gently merged their bodies, delighting in a feeling that had been haunting his dreams for so long...
Deep into the night Endymion woke, and cradled Serenity more tightly in his arms. He gently brushed away a strand of stray hair from her face.
"I love you, Chéri." He whispered the words quietly into her ear. "More than you'll ever know."
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
Jadeite had managed to bully a young maid into waking up the couple, for he had been too scared to do so himself; a fact that had caused Rei a ridiculous amount of amusement in Jadeite's opinion, considering that she was no better than him in the situation.
The poor maid timidly knocked on the heavy oak door, and when she received no reply she was very much tempted to pick up her skirts and hurry away. Yet she had been ordered to rouse the couple no matter what occurred, under the threat of vast punishment. She slowly bit her lip and opened the door ignoring years of vigorous training and demands of etiquette. The sight before her caused the blood to flow immediately to her cheeks and a small gasp of surprise to emerge from her childish lips.
Before her lay Serenity and Endymion in all their naked glory. While cream sheets fell below their waists their delicate folds left very little to the imagination. Endymion was sleeping on his back, the muscles of his chest and the cold sweat that had accumulated on his body from making love to his wife numerous times was hardly appropriate for the eyes of a young maid. Serenity was on her stomach, the curves of her breasts visible where they were crushed against Endymion's chest. Her golden hair flowed around them contrasting Endymion's cobalt brilliantly. Sensing another presence Endymion lazily opened his eyes and smirked in a bemused fashion at the young maid.
The image of Endymion, shirtless and smiling at her in a fashion that could melt the hearts of most full grown women could well have reduced the maid to a mass of tears. He laughed heartedly at the maid's embarrassment causing Serenity to stir in his arms and grunt at him irritably from being roused so early.
"You may go, and tell Jadeite that if he wishes to wake us he can do so himself." The girl bowed clumsily and rushed off, relieved to be away from such an uncomfortable predicament. Serenity opened her eyes unwillingly and stretched languidly, causing Endymion to once again stare at her form.
"If you keep that up, Chéri, we shall not be out of bed before noon." He whispered heatedly in her ear. Her lips curled into a satisfied smirk as she glared at him playfully. Yet the moonlight and magnolia was quick to fade and Serenity's pragmatism set in the same instant as when she fully regained her senses.
"What happened to my Knights." She whispered unwillingly.
"I believe they fared quite well considering their lack of a leader." Serenity threw a heated glare at Endymion. For the hundredth time she cursed the man-why was it that he was the only being on the face of the planet that could calm her and enrage her with a simple phrase? She rolled out of bed and quickly pulled on her clothes, pointedly ignoring Endymion's satisfied smirk. She quickly checked on Darien before making her way out of the tent.
She tilted her head back and absorbed the crisp autumn air before walking away from the hut. Not more than a few yards before her, her Knights had gathered around a small table, all bent over an old map. She walked towards them with her head held high, unwillingly to admit the regret she felt so overwhelmingly in regards to her previous actions.
Malachite looked up, and for a moment surprise danced in his eyes from seeing her. Yet he merely acknowledged her presence with a slight bow of the head, in very much the same fashion he would greet a common farmer or complete stranger. Serenity refused to show how deeply Malachite's disregard cut her and merely gazed at Jadeite. She had not expected a warm welcome from him-she knew him far too well for that. Yet she had hoped against hope that he would understand what she herself could not. Unfortunately her hopes had been ill-fated. She immediately recognised the change in him. He had his same carefree air as always, yet a disillusioned cynicism had crept into his countenance. A change illustrated quite plainly in his inability to even look at her. Serenity could feel her heart begin to ache, and she looked away not willing to allow them to see the tears that were now threatening to spill from her eyes.
"We have missed you. I have missed you, sister." Damien whispered, his voice filled with sincerity. He slowly walked towards her and embraced her in a bone-crushing embrace. A sigh of relief escaped her lips as she returned her hug. She turned towards Nephrite. The resentment in his brown eyes was plain. However Zoicite acknowledged her with a soft smile-he could not forgot that she had returned in order to grant his wife's wish on their wedding day. Serenity straightened her already stiff posture and raised her head. She did not care if half her men resented or were deeply mad at her-she had no time for that now. They here her Knights and they would follow her into battle no matter what; she would make sure of that.
"I never wished to cause you any harm, and now is not the time for me to make flowery speeches about regret and friendship. We are being besieged and could have well lost yesterday. I do not ask but demand you to lay your personal feelings aside until we have crushed Diamond." Her Knights merely nodded grimly, a feeling of deep relief in their minds at having their leader back.
"Zoicite, tell me the history." Zoicite pointed at the many villages Diamond had attacked giving her a brief synopsis of the weaponry, men and supplies that each had possessed. She stared at the map, searching the bold red dots for some formidable pattern. Suddenly the pattern flew up at her, causing her face to pale considerably.
"Diamond is not alone is he?" She asked softly.
"No, we are not sure who is aiding him, how did you-" Zoicite's words died on his lips as he watched her hand trail from one of the targets to another, she had discarded two villages but the path she drew was one that completely encircled the palace.
"He wants the palace. He attacked sporadically and often broke his own pattern to ascertain you could not read his plan. Diamond could not have thought of that." Serenity replied simply. Her Knights gazed at her. It had taken her but a few minutes to win back their respect. However forgiveness did not come so easily.
"He will siege the palace." Jadeite voiced the thought that had been passing through all their minds.
"We shall move within the hour." Serenity replied, glancing pointedly at her Knights. They nodded and headed their separate ways in order to prepare for their journey.
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
Serenity walked back to the hut in order to tell Endymion what had occurred. She threw the door open and immediately the anxiety that was cursing through her veins ceased. In the middle of the room stood Endymion, his breaches the only thing that covered his naked form. In his arms was Darien, his head was pressed against his father's chest. Endymion was gently caressing Darien's head. For a moment she merely leaned against the door frame, a smile playing across her features and love warming her heart. Sensing her presence Endymion turned to her and smiled.
"Spying on us, Serenity?" Endymion said in a bemused fashion. Yet his words brought her back to reality.
"Pack your things. We are leaving for the palace in the hour." Endymion narrowed his eyes and quickly laid Darien in his crib before once again facing his wife.
"Has there been new information on the attacks?" Endymion asked, his face a picture of seriousness.
"I have reason to believe that Diamond will attack the palace." She explained to him what she had discovered-yet his eyes accumulated a darker worried hue as opposed to the relief she had been expecting.
"You cannot fight." Serenity stared at him, anger begging to awaken in her being.
"May I inquire why not?" She asked not bothering to hide the sarcasm laced in her words. He glared at her in response.
"For the most powerful military leader on this planet you fail to notice a great deal. Can you not see that whoever is helping Diamond knows you very well? Whoever this person is they know the intricate ways in which your mind works. I've seen the attacks that have been conducted on the villages, most civilians were spared. Diamond would have killed them all to the very last infant. Judging from the way the men fall into formation, they're response to magical attacks one would be forgiven for thinking you had trained them."
"Then they would have known I would have been able to decipher their plans to attack the palace." Serenity replied shortly. She did not like being made to look intellectually inferior, especially to her husband.
"Which would be a perfect way for them to lead you into a trap." Serenity glared at him and shook her head in determination.
"I must take the risk, I have a duty-"
"A duty to what? Your country? Your Knights? You seemed ever so willing to neglect those duties only a few days ago!" Endymion boomed, anger masking his fear at once again having to face loosing his wife. He could feel her eyes burning on her skin as she glared at him infuriated.
"You go too far."
"You cannot jeopardise your own life, Serenity. The Queen is dying, she may be dead already. The little curse you uttered caused her skin to shrivel and her bones to fade into dust. You know as well as I that Damien will never be King, if he ever reaches power he will properly relinquish the crown himself. The security of the nation rests on your shoulders." Serenity turned away from him and tightly grasped the edge of a dark mahogany desk. She had been ignorant of the state of the Queen. She could feel tears beginning to sting her eyes. It was not that she cared about the old twit, rather she was infuriated that the old woman could cause her so much trouble even in death.
"If I do not fight, the country will be at the mercy of your brother and whoever is aiding him. Perhaps that is your plan." She regretted the words the minute they left her lips but her anger and pride would not allow her to apologise. Endymion walked towards her, blinded with rage. He surrendered to the anger as that prevented him from having to face the hurt that emerged from the knowledge that deep down Serenity still did not trust him. He grabbed her by the arm and roughly pulled her to him.
"I am your husband, the father of your child-and if that holds no bearing with you then I am a trusted confidant of the Promised Knights." He sneered, glaring down at her. For long moments they merely stared at each other venomously, anger and pride building an invisible wall between them.
"You shall not accompany us." Endymion's grasp on her arm tightened. He observed every change that occurred in her face as she had uttered the words. This observation allowed her façade to unravel before his very eyes.
"What is worse, Serenity; making me believe that you think me a traitor or allowing me to witness your true feelings for me? Don't you dare deny their existence, for you expressed them only a few hours ago in the cream sheets that are behind you. Or perhaps you need to be reminded?" In the second half of his short speech his voice changed from mocking to husky and seductive. He allowed his hands to trail up her waist to just under the curve of her breasts. Serenity stared at him, infuriated at herself for no longer being able to think coherently.
"Damn you to hell, Endymion." She had intended to bite the statement, yet it was laced with anger and lust.
"Only if you promise to join me." Endymion whispered quietly before carrying his wife once again to their bed. On their way Endymion accidentally knocked over a glass of red wine. The couple were too engrossed in each other to notice the red liquid spreading sinisterly across the white floor.
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
Serenity stood erect on her ferocious back Stallion, with Jadeite and Malachite beside her and Nephrite, Zoicite and Endymion closely behind. (Endymion had come despite Serenity's numerous protests-for he could be just as stubborn as she was) The wind was crisp against their skin and any movement was caught by them as their nerves were wound up as tightly as the strings on a violin. The forest, drenched in an eternal heavy fog with heavy trees and thick vegetation, had always been thought to be haunted and was feared as such.
Yet the rumour had not held truth until this day.
The journey from Sirocco to the palace was usually a three day ride. Yet the Knights and Senshi had arrived at their destination in no more than twenty four hours. Upon arrival Nephrite had sensed the presence of the enemy in the forest. Closer inspection from the heights of the palace towers had confirmed Nephrite's suspicions.
So the three most powerful beings in the universe stood outside the walls of the palace, in front of their army of thousands. All faced the forest grim, some remembering the features of loved ones, others thinking of the battle ahead and if they would walk away alive. Yet all stood willingly to give up their lives for their cause. In Serenity's mind this was the protection of the Moon, their kingdom and blood. Yet the motivation that drove many of the troops was a desire to follow the orders of their Princess and Knight.
Their helmets were adorned with white feathers, their thick metal armour embellished with golden designs. For many men it was the greatest honour to bear the burden of the imperial army uniform-for it meant that they could tell their grandchildren that they had worn the same uniform as the legendary Promised Knights.
Serenity's mind was devoid of all thought. She had been trained to rely solely on her senses on occasions such as these. Her eyes scanned the forest searching for any sign of movement. She heard a sharp hiss in the air and brought her shield up instantaneously. A slight pressure on her shield indicated that an arrow had made contact with it.
So the war began.
The enemy relinquished their hiding place amidst trees and shrubs and charged. Serenity's army surged forward enveloping the enemy as a wave does the sand. The air was thickened with sounds of metal clinging against metal and polluted by the wailing of dying men. Serenity cut men down with her sword while incinerating others with numerous energy attacks. Beads of sweat accumulated on her forehead-her heart started racing as she realised that the enemy was sending a flank of its troops in an attempt to surround her army. She used all her power to push the soldiers back. Yet the fact that they had attempted the tactic unnerved her for it was one she had employed many times herself, and she once again remembered Endymion's words of warning. Her head shot up as a griffon, one of Nephrite's illusions, rushed past her head. She stared in disbelief when the enemy troops paid the mythical beasts no heed. She scanned the army in search of the leader. A man at the edge of the army caught her eye and she made her way towards him. She used her powers of telepathy to instruct Jadeite to join her as she was uncertain as to what to expect.
The man's face was covered by a heavy helmet yet from what she had observed he seemed to very much be commanding the troop. There was no doubt in her mind that this was the man who had been helping Diamond. Her sword met his with an audible clang-yet she did not want to give him any further opportunities to guide his army. She used her powers to lift him off his horse and throw the helmet of his face. The result was a sprawl of white hair accompanied with feline features.
Artemis.
A gasp emerged from her lips as if she had been dealt a physical blow. She observed the shock in Jadeite's features that was quickly replaced with a hardened expression of betrayal and hate. Serenity jumped of her horse and stalked towards him, grabbing him by the throat and holding him in the air, while Jadeite, beside her, pressed the tip of his sword to the man's chest.
"Why? In the Moon's name, why?" Serenity yelled, trembling. She could feel the presence of the other Knights and Endymion in her mind and she allowed them to see through her eyes.
"Because I fight for justice, and it was not with you." Came the simple reply. His words held the same assurance and confidant arrogance as they did when he had trained them. Serenity glanced at Jadeite and no words needed to pass between them in order for them to understand what the other was thinking.
Ribbons of light began to surround Artemis and in a burst of bright light a cage had formed around Artemis's slim figure. Yet his face showed no signs of regret and defeat. She used her powers to throw him into the palace-she would have to deal with the traitor later. She and Jadeite returned to the fighting with a heavy burden on their hearts. They could both feel the anger that was cursing through their colleague's veins at discovering that their idol had been plotting their downfall. They began to fight with new determination and brutality, as a result the enemy was forced back and they had to fight amidst the heavy foliage of the forest.
The strong presence of unfamiliar magic caused Serenity to glance above. A figure was flying midair. She narrowed her eyes in order to determine the man's identity. On discovering his identity an anger awoke within her that had been laying barren since the murder of her father.
The man in the air stared down on her with eyes of ice.
Diamond.
Immediately she flew into the air in order to finally face the man who had killed her father all those years ago. She unleashed an energy attack on him and he returned with his own. They circled each other in the air, each waiting to discover a weakness, eagerly anticipating a mistake. A flurry of punches and kicks broke out in a result of a riddle of flesh and flying hair. The leaders of the two armies were so engaged in their private battle that they failed to notice that the fighting beneath them had ceased; the armies coming to the silent agreement that which ever leader won the battle in the air would also win the war. No one, not even Serenity's Knights dared to intervene. Endymion could feel his heart pounding against his chest as he for the first time prayed, bargaining with God in order to guarantee his wife's safety.
In one swift moment Serenity observed a falter on Diamonds behalf. She grabbed a small dagger hidden in her boot and flew towards Diamond at an incomprehensible speed. Her movements were too agile for Diamond to properly react and thus Serenity's dagger buried itself deep in Diamond's chest. However Serenity's rage had blinded her usually impeccable senses and thus she had failed to notice the energy bolt that had been forming in Diamond's hands. Moments after she had impaled him with her dagger he released his energy bolt directly to her stomach. Serenity screamed as her skin was scorched and her internal organs began to disintegrate under the force of the attack.
The two leaders fell to the floor, landing beside one another.
She was too weak to prevent Diamond from infiltrating her mind. Images of her father flashed before her. She saw her father, a man that she had seen equal to a saint, demanding the slaughter of millions. She watched horrified through Diamond's eyes as her father grasped the small form of Endymion as a child-forcing him to witness the slaughter of his father. The horrific images only ceased when Diamond relinquished his grasp on life and surrendered to the dark abyss of death.
Serenity crawled towards his dead form, ignoring the horrific pain that she was experiencing. She shook Diamond's form and screamed when she was answered only with stillness. She screamed with such a primitive nature that it caused both her Knights and Diamond's kin, who had surrounded their fallen forms, to shiver. All that she had believed in—all that she had fought for—had been a lie. Her entire world collapsed as she was saw the faces of all the men she had killed in the name of revenge. Endymion's strong arms pried her from Diamond's corpse. He held her in his arms and shook her ferociously, trying to bring her back to her senses.
For a few short seconds it worked.
Serenity turned to face her husband, her face a riddle of tears, sweat, blood and grime. She reached out and touched a man whom she had loved with her whole being, a love which she had denied venomously. Even though her entire world was shattering before her he had remained, his strong arms providing relief in her last hours.
"I-I love you." She whispered the words with the last remnants of her strength.
"Don't you dare go anywhere, Aura Serenity. Hold on. You must hold on." Endymion yelled at her fervently. Yet it was of no use, the damage that had occurred to her body could not have been healed by Damien even if he had been present. (Serenity had demanded he stay in the palace walls for protection.)
Endymion watched, tears streaming down his cheeks as his wife's breathing became ragged. He pressed her body more firmly against his, hoping that by some miracle he could save her. His heart was being ripped to shreds in the same way it would have if had drunk coffee containing ground glass. He watched as the life drained out of her eyes, and his heart stopped as he felt her go limp in his arms.
Jadeite fell to his knees with a dull thump. He merely stared at the dead form of Serenity in disbelief, tears fell freely form his eyes. Nephrite placed a clenched fist in his mouth and bit down on it harshly. He cursed the stars and fate, swearing to abandon both for their games. Zoicite allowed his sword to fall to the ground in a last show of respect. His head hung low with grief. For the first time in his life Malachite allowed tears to freely run down his cheeks-so was the pain of loosing his leader and friend.
Yet their grief was forgotten when their gazes fell on Endymion.
He was grasping Serenity's corpse ferociously his mouth open. Yet no sound emerged from his lips, a deathly scream of silence ran through the armies causing all to tremble at the pain of the Prince. They watched as tears streamed down his cheeks and his body trembled violently as he tried to express his grief. After long moments a deep howl emerged from his body. The frightening sound was repeated again and again-screams that would haunt all who were present for many years to come.
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
When I discovered the news of Serenity's death I could scarcely breathe. For months nobody was safe in my presence as I would hurl energy attacks at any living creature that dare intrude on my solitude and disturb the grief that had engulfed me. You see due to what happened I, Damien, was forced to write the conclusion to Serenity's autobiography. In the last moments of her death she sent to me the last memories of her life and instructed me to write them. I did not have the strength until now, the one year anniversary of her death.
I have been tormented with the knowledge that she died thinking that all she stood for was a lie. I've cursed myself a hundred times for not being there to heal her. Yet I was not alone in my grief. Mina and Malachite remain unmarried; no one has been able to participate in any festivities. Malachite rules the kingdom, as the Queen died only days after Serenity. Her death was ignored and she lies in an unmarked grave, while Serenity was given twelve days of mourning. Nephrite has lost his past mysticism-he refused to talk to the stars and curses them. He and Lita intend to marry in the next fall-yet they share a room in a palace. Serenity's death awoke us to our mortality in a brutal fashion. Zoicite remains quiet and emerges into society less and less each day-the only person that can clearly rectify his existence is Amy. Jadeite is a shell of himself, as is Rei. Their love for each other is plain, yet the fire that used to be so characteristic of their personalities is no more. Lost, as is the ear of the Promised Knights.
Yet our ordeals are nothing compared to that of Endymion.
It took all four of the Promised Knights present to prevent him from dismembering the body of Diamond. The weeks following he was a mad man. He would rant and rave and demand for Serenity to come back-even if it was to haunt him. Darien was the only person that was able to cool Endymion's rage. He walked to his father and simply asked when mummy was coming back. From that day Endymion presented a strong façade for his son. Yet gradually he lost weight, his complexion yellowed. His eyes lack life, and he seems but a vampire walking the earth when in fact he is dead.
We all know that soon Serenity shall be forgotten-her name shall fade with the sands of time. Yet her passion shall live on and become legend. In time it will turn into a myth and soon be seen as nothing but fiction, a children's tale. Yet what I have written is the truth. Remember her, respect her for what she was.
Above all remember to always ascertain the motives and beliefs of your foes, for there is no pain greater than the realisation that you are fighting for the same cause.
The end.