Falling Away
MarshAngel
watsonma@hotmail.com

Rated: R

AN: Due to the fact that that I don't want to have a dozen chapters, I've decided to start combining the chapters that were previously cut out to be one. This simply means that my typical 10-12 page chapters are now around twenty or more pages long. Unfortunately, this also means more time between updates, though hopefully not as long as the last update. 

I think this is the chapter when you begin to really see the story progress. Enjoy.

Chapter 7

Stop that," Serenity reprimanded, but spoiled her attempt at seriousness by giggling.

"Why?" Endymion groaned and tickled her neck.

Serenity glanced over at the crack of light seeping through Endymion's heavy velvet drapes.

She jumped up suddenly, pulling the sheets with her, leaving Endymion bare on his bed.

"It's late!" why didn't you tell me it was so late, or early?" she screeched, scuttling around the room and trying to get her clothes together.

"We were busy," he reminded her. He lounged on the bed, comfortable in his nudity.

A loud banging came on his bedroom door, startling both of them. "Endymion," a deep voice bellowed.

Endymion groaned and rolled out of bed. "And that would be my father," he grumbled. His father had taken to starting business at an ungodly hour. He hadn't been sleeping lately and whenever he came up with something he felt needed to be discussed he'd wake Endymion to make sure his son was properly informed. The old bastard was going senile. He pulled on a pair of pants hurriedly.

"Your father!" Serenity screeched loudly.

"Endymion, you have a woman in there?"

Serenity's eyes widened with panic. She had to get out, but getting out required concentration or she might end up anywhere but where she'd intended. Somehow the idea of reappearing in the council room half dressed did not appeal to her. She doubted it would amuse her mother either.

"Of course not," Endymion bellowed back. He could hear his father chuckling lightly. The old man was obviously not fooled, and he apparently found it amusing. Endymion indicated for Serenity to get behind the curtains as he opened the door.

King Endymion stepped inside and looked around. He didn't see anyone. "You smell like a woman," he commented.

"Good morning to you too father," Endymion greeted with a healthy dose of sarcasm.  He glanced back, trying not to be obvious. There was no protrusion in his curtains. Serenity was gone.

His father raised an eyebrow in a perfect imitation of his son's common expression. "However did you get rid of her so quickly?"

"If you're going to ask questions like that you're really going to have to specify who we're talking about."

The king chuckled. He wasn't that gullible.

*****

"Serenity where have you been?" Luna demanded. Serenity was completely caught off guard by Luna's voice as she snuck into the solarium. She was late. She'd reappeared in her room after leaving in a near panic over being discovered by Endymion's father. By the time she'd bathed and dressed she'd been more than twenty minutes late for the early appointment she'd forgotten about entirely. Carrying on an affair was hard work.

It had only taken a week since Endymion's return to earth for them to find themselves in each other's arms again. She'd amazed herself with her ability to find time and energy to teleport to Earth after her days had ended and then return home just as dawn broke. She questioned her amazing energy all the time.

Had she been completely dissolute she might have been impressed with her ability to deceive everyone who knew her and pretend all was as it had always been. But she still felt guilty. But guilt didn't prevent her from doing as she wished, so perhaps she was depraved after all.

Yesterday Mael and his entourage had headed back to Drue after staying on a few additional weeks after the ball. She had breathed a sigh of relief when she'd watched from the balcony over the landing pad as his ship lifted off and disappeared into the sky. He'd spoken to her before leaving, holding her hand and securing her promise that she would visit, a promise she didn't feel any urge to fulfill and she didn't feel at all guilty about.

She projected a wide-eyed image of innocent wonder at the tiny dark-haired woman who looked at her in annoyance. Luna was even more petite than she, with wide feline violet eyes that were currently fixing her with the glare of death.

In her absorption with 'other matters', She had completely forgotten that she was supposed to have met Luna to discuss some preliminary arrangements for her wedding this morning including the first sketches of her wedding gown. She'd been so caught up in Endymion that she hadn't even noticed the rising sun. She could only wonder what Marila must have thought when she'd gone into her bedchamber to find her princess missing.

Her mind was consumed with appropriate excuses as she thought over the situation. Fortunately she had gotten into bed last night as usual and lay there for a while before risking a teleport to Earth so her bed had been suitably rumpled. Hopefully Marila thought she'd risen early, which while…

"Serenity!" Luna snapped seeing the absent expression on Serenity's face that indicated that she was thinking, perhaps coming up with a half-baked excuse.

"I overslept?" Serenity tried.

She could tell by the look on Luna's face that she was about ready to deliver a lecture. She was used to Luna's lectures. They had been a staple all of her life, something she could always count on.

Luna had been a second mother to her as well as her tutor in all the things that came with being a princess. She was one of the only people who dared to yell at her and order her about.

"I thought I had worked that annoying habit out of you," Luna snapped. If Serenity expected a lecture she wasn't going to get one. She was past the age for such things, not that she'd paid much attention to any of her others.

"Surely, I'm allowed one relapse Luna."

Luna sighed. "I suppose so." She abandoned the subject with an autocratic wave of the hand. "The dressmaker has been waiting for nearly a half hour now." She indicated to a footman to let the dressmaker and her assistants into the room.

A rotund woman clothed in brilliant red silk entered the room, a Venusian Serenity decided on sight judging by her brilliant appearance and exuberance. She was followed by two younger and thinner girls laden with fabric swatches, sketches, and other not so readily identifiable objects, which they immediately laid out on a table that had been brought in for that purpose.

The woman was introduced as Lucilda Moray. The name couldn't have been more wrong. With her voluptuous figure, auburn curls and vibrant personality the woman should have been a Sophie, a Cherie, a…. what was she doing?

Serenity was visibly surprised when the woman began walking around her in a circle. Making specific, detailed comments on her measurements as if her eyes were scientific instruments. Her assistants dutifully took notes and sketching quickly.

"I had been thinking of a joyous celebratory red," the dressmaker announced, "but I can see now that it will not suit. It will make you look like a trollop. We'll perhaps save that color for your boudoir."

Serenity flushed. Endymion liked her in red. He had a satin robe he never wore in that color, a gift from his aunt. She'd wrapped herself in it when she'd stepped out of the tub only last night. He liked her in blue as well; his sheets were blue, several shades lighter than the walls of his chamber. Actually, Endymion preferred her in nothing at all. She flushed at her own thoughts.

"How charmingly innocent, that blush," Lucilda commented delightedly, clasping her hands together. Serenity decided that Luz was the appropriate name for her.

"Perhaps blue?" Luz suggested.

"I like blue," Luna agreed. "But what about a violet?"

"Hmm. I like it! It will bring out her eyes. Perhaps a blue-violet, a periwinkle they call it," Luz said. "Yes that sounds delightful. Bring those swatches here Ally," she commanded one of the blonde girls.

Serenity simply stood there like a doll as they brought swatches to her skin to check for compatibility. The dress would take the better part of the year to make. It would be heavily embroidered and hand beaded until it was so heavy she could barely stand in it. Her stomach churned at the thought. Just now she had envisioned herself in the gown Luz had painted in her mind; a layered white fitted under-dress with its heavily embroidered and beaded periwinkle satin outer dress and train. She walked up a long aisle amidst hundreds of people, her heavily beaded train dragging behind her. The face of the man at the altar was a blur until she came close and it wasn't Mael but Endymion.

Her hands began to shake as she held the sketches Luz handed to her of designs of the various gowns for the wedding ceremonies. It took determination but she pushed the thought out of her head and focused on the elegant fashions before her. She was marrying Mael. She rethought her daydream purposefully replacing Endymion's face with Mael's. That was better. She resolved in her mind never to confuse the two. Endymion was not her future just a pleasurable past time.

****

Endymion looked down at the documents on his desk. He wasn't concentrating, as he should. Serenity had been on his mind all day. He could all but smell the scent of orange spice that lingered on his sheets. He'd visited her last night, the fourth time he'd taken the risk in the last three weeks. Teleporting was easier for her and she enjoyed being here on Earth that so many times she was the one to make the journey. 

For the third time he found himself gazing out the window seeing nothing at all, merely staring mindlessly.

"She's distracting you," Malachite commented sternly. He sat across from Endymion on the other side of the large mahogany desk. He'd been helping Endymion review the reports and various other documents that had come in but they hadn't gotten very far since he'd been doing most of the work. Helping Endymion adjust to taking more control of the kingdom was turning out to be far more work than he'd bargained for. He was born to protect the man not sort through his paperwork.

"She i… Who?"  He tried innocently.

Malachite scowled at Endymion's pathetic attempt. He'd known about the Prince's desire for the Lunarian princess before he'd been fully aware of it of himself. He'd hoped his friend had had more common sense to act on his lust however. Endymion had one thing in common with his friend and guard Jadeite however, and that was impulsiveness. At times he was convinced the young prince could do with a dose more of Zoecite's unwavering logic.

"I've warned you about this before." Endymion didn't bother to ask how Malachite knew that he'd been seeing Serenity. It seemed keeping secrets from his friend was a pointless endeavor. Malachite was older, wiser, and had known him all his life.

"I remember," Enymion muttered not looking at Malechite at all. "Your warnings are useless."

"I've noticed," Malachite replied coldly. "Serenity is not a part of your future and she should be out of your thoughts and your bed. The consequences aren't worth a fraction of the pleasure she's giving you.

Endymion resisted the urge to snort rudely at that comment. If Malachite only knew; Serenity was like an addiction. Then again it's just as well he didn't. But he was right however. He'd sought out Serenity with a determination he'd never employed with any other woman and he'd disregarded the consequences. No pleasure was worth the risk they were both taking but somehow it didn't matter. He tried once again to focus on the papers before him.

Malachite saw the subject was pointless. Endymion was more like his father than he would allow himself to accept. Once he'd started down a path he wouldn't depart from it despite its obvious dangers. He changed the subject rather than continue with his warnings.

"I should let you know. Beryl has arrived to sign the betrothal contracts. She's settling in her rooms as we speak."

Endymion scowled. His 'bride' had arrived. Somehow he couldn't imagine Beryl in any manner befitting a wife; a queen yes, but not by his side. Beryl was the kind of woman men fantasized about and sought out. She was no innocent and didn't pretend to be and somehow by force of will alone she commanded such respect that no one dared question her behavior.

She was vibrant and fiery and a force to be reckoned with. She didn't, in any way, fit the image he had of a wife. He'd envisioned, as his wife, a quiet charming lady with grace and beauty. She'd be someone who would devote herself to the raising of their children and wouldn't interfere with political matters. She would have a body he would crave and…

He muttered a curse under his breath. The image he'd painted in his mind had the face and body of Serenity. Of course Serenity wasn't exactly wifely material either. She had been raised to be queen and as a wife she would be an interfering, meddling, nag. The thought should have cured him of his fantasizing but it almost brought a smile to his lips before he quelled it, reminding himself that Malachite was standing over him like a nagging wife. That thought made him chuckle aloud as Malachite scowled at him.

"There isn't anything about Beryl that should be making you laugh," Malachite reprimanded. "You're right about one thing she's definitely not what you should have for a wife."

"Yes well it wouldn't hurt if you cracked a smile occasionally." He paused and smiled. "Then again your face might break." Malachite glared at him but ignored the barb. "As for Beryl, she's not my choice, but my father is right. The council has made its choice and I must accept it or risk my throne."

"A throne you don't even want."

"True enough, but there is no one to give it to and I suppose there is something to be said for duty to one's family and people. You wouldn't want it either."

Malachite did smile then. He was Endymion's cousin and though an indirect descendant, in some round about fashion that would involve several people dying and several others going insane, the title could fall to him.

"You couldn't pay me enough to deal with the council. If they all die suddenly, I'll open a bottle of rare wine and dance on their graves."

The council was made up representatives of Earth's various royal houses and rulers. The Rose Dynasty was the head of all the Royal houses but was still subject to placing many decisions before the council for discussion and voting. It was tedious, counterproductive and bordered on being corrupt at times. Dealing with a council of manipulative politicians, each representing their own agendas on a daily basis was enough to drive a man insane.

Endymion grinned. "You? Dance?"

"What? Is it too much?" The expression on Malachite's face was a serious one that didn't betray the humor of his questions.

"Only if the dance is a jig."

*****

Serenity strolled down the hall towards her room, glad to have the meeting over with and happy that there were no other commitments for the rest of the day. She never quite made it there as an arm reached out from one of the chambers she passed, grabbed her arm and pulled her in. "So what does it look like?" Mina demanded.

"What does what look like?" Serenity wasn't surprised. This kind of sudden assault was the kind of thing Minaxi and Litalya were known for.

"Your wedding gown of course," Mina snapped impatiently.

"You know you could have stopped by for the meeting if you wanted so desperately to know."

"Mina grinned sheepishly. "And have Lucilda take my head off? She hasn't yet forgiven me for not wearing the dress she designed to the museum opening in Vesta. Now answer the question."

"Well according to Luna and Lucilda, Periwinkle is the perfect color, so periwinkle it is. Luna pointed out one of the sketches with the heavy beaded robe that she thought would be nice and I agreed."

"You let them decide for you? What about what you want? Don't you care what it's going to look like? You only get married once. You should have whatever you want."

Serenity waved the issue aside. "I like the color; what was there to argue about? I'm sure Lucilda will come up with something spectacular. She showed me a few designs, a bit more ornamental than traditional but I left it up to her. She has good taste."

"How can you be so nonchalant about this?" Mina demanded. Had it been her own wedding she would want control over every detail. Her gown would be vibrant and shocking. She'd discussed the details a dozen times with Lita. Lita had already decided what food would be served at her own wedding banquet and a dozen other details.

"Why should I cause myself stress when there are dozens of people to take care of every detail so I don't have to worry?" Serenity questioned. "It doesn't matter what I do or not do; it will be beautiful anyway."

Mina sighed but realized this conversation was going nowhere. Serenity had changed. She used to be involved in the wedding dream conversations too but she always changed the topic when it came up these days. Mina suspected a strong case of the nerves with a hint of denial. It was to be expected in every bride, Serenity was simply handling it in a different way than most, leaving the details up to the professionals and focusing her mind elsewhere. If only she could figure out where exactly that was.

"Do you know what Mael will be wearing?"

Serenity frowned. "No. I hadn't really thought of it. I suppose it will be something traditional from Drue. We haven't really talked about it."

"Have you talked to him at all?"

Serenity tried not to wince. "I spoke to him just before he left," she defended. In fact it was one of two real conversations she'd had with him this week. She had been avoiding him, which wasn't well done of her. It wasn't as though they hadn't spent time together. He'd accompanied her on some of her appointments, which left little room for talk. She'd made it a point to make sure he was otherwise entertained at other times, which hadn't been terribly difficult since they didn't share many interests. Lita's brother had taken him riding on Io and he'd spent one or two days there. There had also been obligatory visits to his relatives, albeit distant ones, on mercury.

She supposed she should be a dutiful fiancée and write him a letter at the very least now that he was on his way home, but she had no idea what to say. Romantic overtures would be excessive, misleading, and complete and utter lies.

Mina rolled her eyes. "I bet it was one of those typical conversations you two have about the weather and trading agreements. I meant a real conversation; the kind two people who are about to be married have."

"I plan to, soon." She was nearly certain that was a lie even as she said it.

"You should at least attempt to find out what his favorite color is, what kind of music he enjoys, how many children you want to have etc. You two are going to have beautiful children," Mina gushed, her mind wandering to all the glorious imaginings she had of marriage. "Maybe a little girl with blue hair?"

Serenity balked at the idea. Children? She hadn't thought much of that either but it was the whole point wasn't it? to produce an heir to the throne.

She had a sudden urge to change the subject. Every time something like this was brought up she just wanted to turn and run. Unfortunately there was nowhere to go; her only escape, however temporary, was in Endymion's arms.

****

Several days and many frustrating days since Serenity had, with visible relief, told him she'd bid her fiancée goodbye. He hadn't, to his disappointment seen her as often as he'd like which was every free moment he had. But free moments were becoming rarer. His father's health had taken a downturn and he had more to do now and he wasn't alone.

Serenity had her own duties and it made the time they had together even more precious.

"Where are you going Endymion?" Malachite demanded as he fell into step beside him as they headed towards Endymion's chambers. The last meeting of the morning, concerning business of the city had been cut noticeably short and Endymion had been growing visibly impatient throughout the morning.

"Nowhere," Endymion replied tersely. He had rushed through the morning, his mind focused on his plan to escape the palace to meet Serenity. He wanted to show her something special, something she had yet to see. The last thing he needed was one of his overgrown babysitters questioning him. He was a grown man. If he wanted to go somewhere he didn't see why he should have to make an account of it to Malachite, Nephrite, or any of his friends.

"Then why are you in such a hurry?" Nephrite questioned in a tone, so calm and patient it was almost as though he were talking to small child.

"I'm an adult. You two don't have to follow me everywhere I go and question everything I do."

"On the contrary; it's our job," Nephrite replied.

"Try not to enjoy it so much," Endymion said tersely, shoving the door of his chamber open roughly as he went in. To his annoyance they followed him in.

"Are you planning to be my nursemaids as well, perhaps you'd like to dress me?" Endymion snapped as he took off the formal coat he'd worn for his meetings and flung it at Nephrite.

"I'm sure Mal here would gladly oblige if you'd just let him know where you're going so that he could choose the appropriate clothing." Nephrite threw the jacket at Malachite who scowled at him and tossed the coat aside.

"He's going to visit his moon princess; clothing is optional," Malachite said tersely with a modicum of sarcasm.

"If you know where I'm going then you had no need to ask," Endymion replied curtly. "Is it too much to ask you to mind your own business?" He removed his shirt and replaced it with a dark blue tunic, followed by loose dark pants.

"You are our business," Nephrite pronounced a little too happily.

 "At least one of us is supposed to go with you wherever you go, you know," He pointed out. He leaned against one wall, watching as Endymion struggled out of his boots. The task would have been made easier by a valet, but carrying on a secret affair couldn't be done with servants milling around his chambers.

Nephrite couldn't quite decide if he fully disapproved. He'd seen Serenity with his own eyes, she was beautiful, a touch delicate, almost breakable looking, but nonetheless a stunning girl. Endymion had developed an unhealthy obsession which he suspected was based on a lot more than sex, which he naturally assumed must have been amazing to be worth all the trouble it involved for this affair. Personally, he would have found someone more available and less dangerous to have fun with but Endymion was determined and since nothing could sway him, he'd decided that whatever his Prince wanted was fine with him.

Endymion raised an eyebrow. "Do I have to point out why that would be absurd in this case? You can come if you like but I have a feeling Serenity would object."

"And what excuse do we make for you this time?" Malachite demanded.

"Whatever you like. I trust you to come up with something interesting."

"Ahh yes. I could just see myself informing your father and whomever else should ask that 'His Royal Highness is currently otherwise engaged between the legs of Her Royal Highness Princess Serenity of the moon kingdom. It would make for interesting dinner conversation don't you think?" Nephrite smiled in amusement over the scene playing in his mind.

Endymion and Malachite scowled.

"Don't make such crude jokes Neph," Malachite snapped. "This is serious. I doubt anyone else would find it amusing. Endymion is being irresponsible and foolish."

"Stop talking about me as if I'm a child."

"I will when you stop behaving like one," Malachite returned.

Both men glared at each other and the tension in the air warned of a punch about to be thrown. It wasn't the first time they had argued on the matter and every time they did it grew tenser.

Nephrite stood aside, amused by the scene being played out before him. He really should do the right thing and prevent them from coming to blows but it was much more amusing to let it happen. He couldn't decide who would win. He doubted Serenity would appreciate a blow to her lover's handsome face however; the look of surprise and fear on her face said as much.

Nephrite smiled at the petite blonde who had quietly materialized at Endymion's bedside. He cleared his throat loudly to get the attention of the two men who had yet to notice the room's new inhabitant. They both turned to glare at him, only to find him smiling at a spot behind them. They turned to face Serenity, Endymion with embarrassment and Malachite with polite silence.

The silence that followed their notice of her presence was tense and indicative of what was expected of Malachite and Nephrite. Both men excused themselves, Malachite somewhat stiffly, leaving the couple alone.

"Sorry about that," Endymion apologized as the door to his room closed. He pulled her close to him and kissed her softly. It was only meant to be a greeting but once he'd tasted her lips he wanted more and she held back nothing.

"I take it that was about me?" She questioned when he gave her the opportunity to use her mouth again.

"Don't worry about it." He'd already forgotten the incident. It had been the second or third time Serenity had come up between him and Malachite. It probably wouldn't be the last.

She was worrying about it. He could tell by the way she looked away when she didn't want him to see that look in her eyes; the look of guilt and concern.

He turned her face up, forcing her to look at him. "It's nothing. I promise."

"He hates me."

"Malachite? Of course he doesn't hate you. He doesn't approve, but it's not his decision. But never mind him. I wanted to take you somewhere. Get undressed."

Serenity raised an eyebrow and a teasing smile played on her lips. "You want to take me somewhere naked?"

He grinned widely. "I have no intention of sharing that wonderful sight with anyone else." He pulled out a brilliant green embroidered long silk tunic paired with matching magenta pantaloons that narrowed at the ankles from a trunk at the end of his bed.

She took them and held them up to the light. "Why would you want me to wear this…" she hesitated to call the ridiculously bright thing an outfit. She couldn't recall having ever seen anything so bright in her life. She was sure she wouldn't have been more visible if she were standing naked amidst a crowd. She laughed a bit.

"Just put it on," he demanded.

She conceded, catering to his roaming eyes by slowing her movements as he watched her undress.

"I don't suppose you could do that a little faster? If you don't get those clothes on we'll be here a while yet," he threatened, his voice husky with desire. He didn't take his eyes off her long legs, images of them wrapped around him immediately coming to mind.

"Maybe that was my goal," she teased.

"Anything to delay wearing that outfit," he commented and chuckled as she pulled up the bright, slightly sheer pants and tied the strings at her waist. She looked like... well he wasn't sure what she looked like really. She was dressed like a Terran but she still seemed a bit angelic. The terrible outfit wasn't quite enough to subdue her beauty.

"Why am I wearing this thing?" She slipped the tunic on over her head and did a twirl.

He grabbed her around the waist, pulled her up against him, nuzzling her neck. "It's a surprise," he whispered in her ear. "Don't worry about the costume; you'll fit right in. He pulled the pins from her hair and it fell from its twin buns down her back.

He wrapped the long heavy locks around his hand and twisted it around until it formed a heavy and slightly sloppy bun at the back of her neck that he secured with pins.

"Your vast array of talents never cease to amaze me," Serenity mocked. "Why did you do that?"

"Your hairstyle, while charming, stands out a bit. And it wouldn't fit well under this. He placed a veil over her head that covered her face.

"Where in the world are we going that my hair stands out and this ridiculous costume doesn't?"

He took her hand and instead of answering her question, he showed her. They disappeared from his chambers and reappeared amidst a crowd of people. Serenity turned her head in alarm. Everywhere people were dressed in bright colored clothing, some even brighter than her own. It appeared to be some kind of marketplace and people were talking, some yelling, she heard music; some people were dancing, others singing; movement, color, and a variety of scents she couldn't identify were everywhere.

"What is this place?" She demanded feeling a little overwhelmed and a bit dizzy. She had never been this close to so many people at once if she discounted the occasional ball, and they were hardly comparable.

Endymion grabbed her hand and began pulling her along, sliding through the crowd proficiently. "It's a marketplace," he yelled over the noise; a very unusual one. Merchants from all over this area come here to trade in just about anything and everything."

She struggled to keep up with Endymion's hurried pace, muttering her excuses to people she bumped into, most of whom obviously hadn't the slightest clue what she was saying nor did they seem to care. Everyone was in such a rush. Her eyes wanted to devour every new sight but it was simply too much. Everywhere she turned there was something new. A brightly dressed woman to her right sat on a stool amidst mini hills of colorful spices; ahead, to her left, a man dressed all in white displayed shining gold trinkets and another man behind him sold instruments, the larger portion of which were unrecognizable to her. A bird squawked and flew over her head and she ducked in fear.

Endymion pulled her up a set of whitewashed steps into the cool darkness of an alcove formed by an archway. Only then did she realize she was already sweating from the sweltering heat and she was a bit out of breath.

"Are you alright?" Endymion asked looking down at her? Her veil had come loose and hung to the right side of her face. Its purpose was to hide her face from anyone educated enough to find her face curiously familiar, particularly with the crescent moon on her forehead that shimmered visible from a certain angle. Her eyes were still wide from all she'd just experienced.

"I think so. What are we doing here? Wherever here is."

"I just thought you'd like to experience something I'm certain you haven't before."

"Then why did we rush through it?"

"That wasn't precisely the experience I was hoping for," he admitted. "I didn't intend to land in the middle of the town market. I didn't want you to be overwhelmed."

"I wasn't overwhelmed," she defended. She glanced at his skeptical expression. "Well perhaps a little," she allowed. "I would like to go back and see it all though. This time, maybe you could give me time to adjust to it all. I've never been this close to so many strange people before. There are so many things I want to…" She trailed off at the sight of the grin that spread over his face.

"What?" She demanded.

"Trust you to enjoy the sideshow, when I have a main event all planned."

"And what would that be?"

"It can wait. If you want to see the market, we can do that too." He held out his hand and she took it and they went out to face the crowds.

Two hours later she was stained with red dye and her face was sticky with honey. She laughed loudly as Endymion carried her in his arms towards the waterfall he had intended to show her. He was only a bit disappointed that his plans had fallen through and she had missed all the fun and experience of riding on a horse and admiring the stunning triple waterfalls he had known she would have loved. Right now however, she was a little too drunk to take it all in with equanimity.

She placed her hand behind his neck and pulled his head down to kiss her. She tasted of honey and fruit. She had tripped and fallen chest first into a vat of red dye a shopkeeper was in the process of mixing and her face was still covered with the remains of a sticky bun she'd been given by a small child who'd seemed captured by the large blue eyes beneath her veil. Of course her clumsiness was excused.

A rather rotund, and in Serenity's words, adorable old man, had been determined to have the pretty girl try his 'special drink'. She had, despite Endymion's warnings which had been drowned out by the old man's loud exclamations and had fallen on deaf ears, indulged the old man by downing a large, delicious glass followed by yet another. He really should have prevented the second but she had already become a source of vast amusement and she was still a giggling, drunken bundle of excessive joy.

Getting her atop the horse he'd arranged to take them to the scenic spot he'd intended for her to see had been difficult, particularly since she'd been rather absorbed with petting the white beast and playing with the its mane. Now he was tempted, and determined to follow through with his new plan.

He kissed her yet again as they walked towards the water.

"Serenity, you're very sticky."

She placed a sticky hand on his cheek and laughed.

 "Well I have to say this outfit has been improved on a bit. It's a lovely dark green don't you think?" She pointed out the front of her tunic where the red dye had soaked in turning the bright green dark.

What he was about to do was terrible, but in his mind, now entirely necessary. The veil she had been wearing had long since disappeared, her face was covered in honey and juice and her outfit a complete mess. The front of her hair was tinted red and the rest had unraveled down her back. It was amazing how quickly her grace fell away under the influence of a little alcohol.

"Serenity, I want you to know that in a few minutes you're going to be very forgiving."

"Who am I going to forgive?"

"Me." With that he strolled to a calm pool of water some distance from the waterfalls and dropped her.

She came up sputtering indignantly, soaking wet and more sober than before.

"You vile toad!"

He should have been more fearful given her current state of upset but seeing her dripping wet in that horrid costume was as amusing as it was arousing. Laughing at her was probably not a good idea however; since she then saw fit to make sure that he landed in the water not far from her a moment later. And that was how an attempt to clean a princess turned into a water fight that later resulted in them both making love underneath the waterfalls just as he'd originally intended.

"What are you doing?" Rei snapped in annoyance.

"Pacing," Serenity replied tersely.

"I can see that, thank you. Why?"

"I'm a just a little anxious that is all."

"Why?"

Serenity sighed loudly in exasperation. "If I answer you will you ask me 'why' again like a five year-old child?"

"Why?" Rei questioned just to annoy her.

Serenity threw a pillow at her and Rei ducked and laughed. She had an inkling that Serenity was awaiting the council's decision on Earth. It had taken them weeks of debate to come to the point of making an absolute decision on the matter but finally they were discussing it. They'd debated endlessly on whether they should cut off all contact with Earth or cut only economic ties. They had put off their decision for a while after the Earth's council had made their own decision not to join the alliance but they all finally agreed that it was time.

What she didn't understand was why it mattered to Serenity at all. It wasn't like her to take such deep interest in one single political affair. But here she was pacing the room, waiting for the meeting to let out so she could hear the decision as though it made some enormous difference in her life.

"Why do..." Rei began before Serenity cut her off.

"I don't know, it just does. I guess you can chalk it up to my growing up and becoming more responsible and interested in what goes on in this kingdom." Rei listened with her inner ears but couldn't catch any stray thoughts from Serenity's mind. She'd gotten better at hiding the things that went through her mind lately. She'd become guarded, almost secretive and Rei wondered what had caused the change.

She might have taken up her concerns with her friends, or, if she'd felt it more serious, the queen. But Serenity seemed happier than she'd ever been before. There was something distinctly different about her that Rei couldn't quite put a finger on but she seemed somehow more focused. She had considered the possibility that her increased communications with Mael may have been responsible but Serenity hardly ever mentioned him and seemed not to have any interest in the details of her upcoming wedding. The date had been set and the first stages of planning had already begun but Serenity swept those matters aside, making decisions quickly and easily with very little consideration.

"Sit down. You're giving me a headache," Rei ordered.

Serenity rolled her eyes at her bossy friend. "I am so sorry to cause you discomfort your highness. Would you permit me to gouge your eyes out so you wouldn't have to suffer the displeasure of watching me pace?"

Rei appeared to give the matter consideration. "Your idea isn't without merit but perhaps we should amputate your legs instead and cut the problem off at its source."

Serenity couldn't help but grin. She gave in and sat down on the couch beside Rei. They had been waiting in Rei's quarters in hopes that a decision would be made soon but it seemed 'soon' was too much to hope for.

Serenity looked at Rei and her friend returned her smile knowingly and both girls glanced towards Amy who sat across the room seemingly unaware of all that had occurred, her nose buried deep in the book in her lap. Serenity glanced at Rei grinning mischievously and then once again towards Amy, concentrating hard. Slowly Amy's book began to rise and then quickly moved higher, floating high above her head.

Amy looked over at them, glaring in annoyance but not surprised. She was quite used to their antics. If Mina and Lita had been here instead of doing an interview with an author from Mars, they would have joined in as well.

"Join us in the real world for while," Rei suggested.

"I see you've run out of things to entertain yourselves," Amy commented.

"Yes. Now dance puppet!" Rei commanded dramatically.

Amy rolled her eyes. She glanced up at the book just in time to catch it as it fell, wincing as the heavy book landed in her hands.

"Sorry," Serenity apologized trying not to giggle.

The door opened and Luna came striding in.

"What's the news?" Serenity stood up and demanded immediately.

Luna gave the princess she'd helped raise a disapproving look. "Do try to calm down Serenity."

"Sorry," she looked at Luna expectantly.

"I have no news," Luna stated simply. "They're still discussing it."

Serenity frowned in annoyance and sat down once more. "They're taking a long time."

"It's a very important decision that affects many people."

"I know. That's all the more reason to make it as soon as possible," Serenity replied.

Luna shook her head in consternation at Serenity's impatience.

"Your aunt is waiting for you in the library Amy," she delivered her message. "Well I have some things to attend to. Dinner will be an hour late tonight. I'll see you then. And Aahe has told me to remind you not to forget your appointment Serenity." She left the room.

A moment later, Serenity stood up. "Well I just can't wait anymore. I'm going for a walk," Serenity announced. She hoped that Rei didn't decide to join her; she wanted to be alone. She let out a sigh of relief when Rei decided to stay inside.

She walked down to the gardens wondering what would happen if it were made illegal to visit Earth, which is likely what they would do if they decided to cut all contact. It would be yet another rule for her to break and still it didn't affect her resolve or make her feel any guiltier. She'd been visiting for weeks without anyone noticing, and she would continue to do so for as long as she could. It seemed that with the increasing awareness that the time when she would no longer be able to see Endymion was growing closer, her need to be with him increased exponentially.

Every time she thought of her approaching wedding her heart began to pound erratically. As a precursor to the wedding, Mael's mother had been suggesting she visit Drue for weeks now but she kept making excuses. She was too busy, she had functions to attend, and she was lying. This week alone she'd spent three nights wrapped in Endymion's arms, returning home only in the predawn hours in time to pretend to be asleep when Marila entered her room. There were other nights when she'd tossed and turned in her own bed only to feel his body solidify next to hers.

She was addicted, perhaps to the pleasure, but definitely to Endymion. Their relationship had grown more complicated than either of them had planned for. There was so much fire and tension that they occasionally exploded into arguments with a passion she didn't even know she had inside her. And yet when they'd run out of breath or finally decided that half the palace might have heard them, they would make love yet again. Their emotions weren't supposed to have been involved but they'd crossed that line and it was what they would not say to each other that defined their relationship.

It was strange how liberated she felt when she was on Earth. It wasn't that they were able to be more public with their relationship, but the atmosphere was different, strangely more exhilarating and yet relaxing. Perhaps things only seemed less risky because she was outside of the confines of her own home, no longer surrounded by dozens of people who knew her.

For the first time she was able to do things she had never dreamed of. Endymion could take her to places on Earth where no one recognized them. She'd been shopping in bazaar surrounded by a wealth of alien faces and smells, bathed under a waterfall, and played in snow for the first time. They were small moments but they had made the deception seem well worth it particularly when she'd seen the absorbed expression on Endymion's face as he'd watched her dance on the beach, playing in the surf like a child.

Most of their time was spent in his room in the palace, a fascinating world unto itself. She knew from what Endymion had told her that it seemed everyone in the palace knew he had a mistress; they simply had no idea who it was, having never seen her, with the exception of his closest friends. Although, she suspected Malachite would have preferred not to know; that way he wouldn't be forced to be openly disapproving.

Endymion's mischievous friend Jadeite, had discovered them together when he'd teleported into Endymion's room to play a prank, using a transporter his other friend and fellow guard Zoecite had put together from spare parts. It had been one of the most embarrassing moments of her life, particularly since he hadn't been nearly as concerned with their privacy as with his surprise at the identity of Endymion's mistress. It certainly hadn't helped that his mind had been screaming out his admiration of her rear end of which he'd an unobstructed view at the time.

She glanced around the gardens to see if anyone was around and seeing no one, on a whim, she teleported to Endymion's rooms on Earth. It had been difficult and tiring to accomplish the first few times she'd teleported the long distance, but it had gotten easier with time and practice. She reappeared in his rooms. The familiar environment immediately relaxed her.

She didn't expect him to be here and he wasn't; but she liked being here anyway. There was something comforting about all the personal touches in this room. It smelled like him, a scent that made her feel warm and at ease. It was unlike any other room she'd ever been in, with the domed ceiling of colored glass over the bed and its dark walls. It was a dark rich blue that he'd chosen himself that turned the large chamber into what she thought of comically as a den of seduction. A pair of his pants hung over a chair and a shirt on the bed. He only, on occasion, let a maid into his bedchamber now that she'd invaded it. Of course that only led to more speculation about the identity of his mistress. If only they knew she thought to herself.

She lay down on this bed and closed her eyes. She didn't recall drifting off but she must have momentarily because she didn't hear him enter the room.

 "In the middle of the day Angel?"  Endymion's teasing voice came up from behind her. He leaned over and blew on a loose curl at her ear causing it to dance and tickle. "If you don't control yourself my ego's going to be completely unmanageable." He kissed her lightly on the neck.

She sat up and faced him, kissing him lightly on the lips. "You mean it isn't already?" He had been sparring she noticed from his clothing. He was sweaty and his dark hair clung to his forehead; he looked enticing. He had discarded the layers and padding of the costume but he still wore the tight white pants and a sleeveless white undershirt that showed off his powerful muscled arms. He tossed aside the pair of curved short swords carelessly.

"What brings you here besides me of course?" He questioned looking down into her eyes. He loved when she looked at him the way she was now with desire in her eyes.

"I just needed to get away for a while." She traced the muscles of his chest with a finger. "The council is still debating their decision." She mentioned it knowing it was a subject he probably didn't want to hear from her lips.

"On whether to cut us off from their glorious selves," he commented snidely, stepping away from her. The topic cooled his passion like iced water. This was a discussion they avoided as a rule. Politics were generally set off limits because between them it usually resulted in an explosive argument. It only complicated matters and ruined his mood, which wasn't great since he'd lost his match to Jadeite, of all people, who hated short swords. His mind had been occupied as it often was lately, with politics and the business of running a kingdom.

He'd been taking on increasingly greater responsibilities as his father began to withdraw from duty. Serenity had already tried once to get him to go before the council and appeal to them to reconsider the idea of joining the alliance. He'd ended that argument with a definitive 'no' that had annoyed her greatly. The fact that he'd even considered, internally, her argument against the possible economic disaster, was a warning of what their relationship shouldn't become. He could, in no way, allow her to influence any decisions he made, even if this particular decision was entirely out of his hands.

"They want to cut contact completely, maybe even make it illegal for citizens of the alliance to come here." She watched Endymion's guarded expression.

"A touch over the top isn't it?"

"We just want to protect ourselves. My mother felt obligated to tell the council that she feels that something terrible is going to happen. She thinks dark forces have begun to grow on Earth. I'm sure that will probably influence their decision."

"I'm sure your mother is a great queen, but she doesn't know everything. This is my planet and there's nothing here to be concerned about," he replied stiffly.

He felt a bit defensive, perhaps because it had not been the best of days. He'd already been faced with an outbreak of violence on the border of the Eastern territories. Khassan insisted it was nothing to be concerned about; it was merely a manifestation of generations of bad blood. It was hard to be reticent about such matters when people were dying however.

Serenity looked at his face and sensed there was something he wasn't telling her.

Sensing her question, Endymion chose to answer rather than evade it as he'd planned.

"Contrary to your people's beliefs they aren't the only ones with magical abilities. The people of Earth have always been gifted but there have been increasing numbers of people with such abilities being discovered. Perhaps that's what your mother senses."

Serenity was surprised. Endymion's own magical abilities had been surprising but the possibility that such abilities were widespread posed an even greater concern. "Endymion, natural magical abilities aren't all that common even on the moon and the other planets. People don't just develop these things. It's dangerous to dabble in magic, it changes you physically, mentally, and if your people are…"

"Stop," he commanded forcefully. "If you are about to tell me that my people are evil because they exercise what comes to them naturally, then don't bother. Their powers, like my own, come from the Earth itself. It has no moral polarity. So if you plan to call them evil you're going to have to include me as well."

 "Not everything that comes naturally is good," Serenity countered.

"Do you think I'm evil?" he demanded.

Serenity was a bit exasperated by the ridiculous question. Still, her mind couldn't help running on an incident when she'd overhead a conversation between him and Zoecite not too long ago. She'd been lying in his bed waiting for him, when Zoecite had entered his outer chambers, asking what to do about individuals whose identities were a mystery to her, individuals whom Endymion had ordered, quite calmly to be killed and frighteningly he'd added another order to make it painful. It had chilled her at the time but she'd since then she'd managed to convince herself that she didn't know the details of the situation it wasn't right to judge him on that basis. But it came to mind despite her having convinced herself it didn't matter.

"Damn it Serenity! Is that what you really think?"

Serenity flinched at the harsh angry sound of his voice. Her guard had been down and he'd picked the thought right from her mind.

"This isn't the moon. It isn't some dull, perfect, crime-free society. When people rape, murder and destroy the lives of others we handle it in the most efficient manner and prevent them from doing it again. Maybe that offends your Lunarian sensibilities and your high-minded ideals but it is the way things are done here. If that makes us evil then so be it.

"Your mother and the Serene Alliance think they know what's best for everyone. It's time they realized that their power doesn't give them the right to treat everyone else like children. I don't suppose it occurred to you that we could handle any problems that arise on our own.

"You behave as though the powers you've been blessed with are incapable of doing any wrong, that similar powers in the hands of anyone else is unnatural and will undoubtedly lead down the path of evil. It's time someone broke it to you, you are not the keepers of the universe. Stop meddling in other people's affairs."

"And when 'other people's affairs' begin to affect you what then? Should we just wait for your people to build their 'natural abilities' into something dangerous and sit calmly by while they destroy everything we've worked so hard to build?" Serenity yelled back, now furious at his implications. She wondered how long he'd been holding these feelings inside.

"Ahh so this is really about you. I'm glad we've finally come down to the heart of the matter. Are you afraid that Earth may become more powerful and become a force to reckon with that might destroy the hold your mother has on the other planets? It always comes down to power doesn't it? Ours is growing and you fear for yourselves."

Serenity stared at him as if he'd gone mad. "Power? Is that all you Terrans ever think of? Has it occurred to you that for near a thousand years the Serene Alliance has governed eight planets, and dozens of moons, maintaining peace and prosperity throughout the system? We have not ever in that time forcibly intruded on the autonomy of Earth although we now know from experience that you'd be better off for it. Maybe you enjoy your wars, your diseases, and your power struggles but we don't and we'd rather not have you bring your problems to the rest of the system and destroy the peace so many enjoy. We don't need you. You need us. But your arrogance and hunger for power won't let you admit it. You continue to do what you always have done. Bite the hand that feeds you," she bit out.

"You don't know your own history do you?" Endymion questioned coldly. "Have you ever asked yourself how the Earth came to be separated from all the other planets? Why are we so far behind technologically, magically?

"When over a thousand years ago the inhabitants of Atlantis through their closely guarded magic gained the knowledge of traveling beyond Earth, and the goddess Selene came and touched the rest of the solar system with life, where were the rest of Terrans? Why weren't we a part of it all? Your ancestors judged us and found us wanting. You were more than willing to take of our bountiful resources but we were too primitive, to be bothered with. You took our best and our brightest and left the rest of Earth to bumble along slowly on our own while you enjoyed your magic and technology.

"We were your sociological experiment for generations. 'Let's see how well they get along with minimal interference.' But when we don't do what you think we ought to or behave in manner suitable for you, you criticize, and call us barbarians all the while enjoying the fruits of our primitive labor. Now you finally offer an invitation to join the alliance and the idea that we wouldn't want to disturbs you so much that you attempt to punish us by cutting off contact as if we didn't get along for centuries without your interference and the precious benefits you offer now."

"I have news for you Serenity. We need you far less than you need us. Earth, unlike the rest of your precious alliance planets didn't need a goddess' touch to spark life. It's stable, it's bountiful and it will be here for millennia after the magic that holds the rest of planets and moons in an imitation of life and fertility has disintegrated and left nothing but dust in its wake."

Serenity stared at him, her blue eyes wide with shock. A chill ran up her spine and she was aware that those last words had frightened him as much as they had her. His face was stiff and his eyes seemed stunned. His words bore the deep foreboding of prophecy. She felt as though a pool of darkness had settled in her stomach. She was on edge, cold, afraid, and angry and the last thing she wanted to do at the moment was look at him.

In an instant she was gone. She hadn't even been aware of where she was going until she realized she was still on Earth standing in the middle of the small cabin where she'd made love to Endymion only a week ago. It sat atop a mountain some distance away from the palace. She'd adored the small, but comfortable, private place Endymion had brought her where she'd immediately felt comfortable, and secure.

 She let out a choked sob. She swallowed hard and wiped the single tear from her cheek. It was only an argument; they'd had a dozen others before. Why should this particular one have such an effect? With his final words he'd brought to mind images she'd never allowed herself too visualize and remember in the bright light of day. 'Disintegrated and left nothing but dust in its wake': The words echoed in her head repeatedly, bringing back from the depths of her mind where she'd hidden them, the prophetic nightmares that added weight and imagery to Endymion's words.

 When she slept she saw acres of dust, craters and ruins; all that was left of the eternal springtime paradise of the moon. Her mind had refused to allow herself to remember the horror of her dreams but Endymion's words brought it all back. She was still shaking and cold, her mind occupied with the thoughts racing through her mind.

She didn't know how long she stood there, staring mindlessly and unmoving at the blank wooden wall across from the bed they'd slept in. It must have been a long while however, because the cabin had grown darker. She should go. She concentrated and felt the buildup of energy and the shift as she reappeared in her rooms.

****

"Where have you been Serenity?"

Serenity turned to face the voice. Her mother was standing before her, visibly annoyed and her annoyance had touched her voice. It was a rare thing to see her mother's brow even slightly furrowed.

She wondered how she must appear with her tear-stained face standing in the dark. The sun had set a while ago and her bedroom was eerily dark. Her mind was still a mess.

She watched as her mother's eyes widen and her face showed her shock at the confusion and hurt she felt from her daughter.

"Weren't you told that Mael's Aunt was coming to visit today? I had to sit through dinner with her and come up with an appropriate excuse as to where you were and why you missed your appointment with her. I had the whole palace searching for you and you were nowhere to be found."

"I'm sorry," Serenity whispered.

"She invited you to Drue which both Mael and his mother have been pressing for, for months now. You've run out of excuses and I was forced to accept on your behalf. Her ship leaves tomorrow afternoon and you'll be going with her."

"What!" Serenity was stunned.

"Where were you?" The queen demanded again.

Serenity ignored the question. "You accepted and invitation for me without asking me?" How could you?"

"You would have had an opportunity to come up with yet another excuse as to why you cannot visit your fiancée had you been at dinner. Now explain where you were. You weren't in the palace and none of the guards knew where you were. You know you're not supposed to leave the palace without one of the senshi or at least a guard."

"I went for a walk," Serenity replied stiffly. She couldn't believe her mother had accepted an invitation she hadn't wanted. She suspected it was a punishment for having placed her in such a position."

"You weren't on the palace grounds. In fact I don't think you were on the moon."

Serenity shifted uncomfortably beneath her mother's unwavering stare.

"Where did you go?" the queen demanded once again.

She couldn't lie. Her mother would know before it left her lips. "I just wanted to escape for a while. Is that a crime?" She demanded.

"Escape what? You aren't a prisoner here. What is there to escape?"

"You wouldn't understand," Serenity muttered.

"Serenity you are past the age for such behavior. You aren't a misunderstood adolescent. You are a young woman with responsibilities."

"Yes, I'm a young woman," Serenity returned. "One entitled to her privacy."

"Not when it puts you in danger."

"I wasn't in any danger."

"Then please stop evading my question and explain where you've been."

For a moment she actually considered telling her mother the truth. But she had no doubt that while it might stop this particular line of questions it would be the beginning of disaster.

"No."

Queen Serenity was stunned at her daughter's simple refusal. It cut to the core that her daughter was keeping a secret from her. Serenity's mind was completely closed to her and it made her scared and nervous. She had always been open with her daughter. There had never been any occasion where she'd felt the need to violate her daughter's privacy. But then, she couldn't recall a time when Serenity had purposefully lied or kept something from her.

The idea that she would do this ran counter to everything she thought she'd known about her. She was a busy mother one with duties that had forced her to delegate the care of her daughter to others on many occasions but she had never doubted her place in her daughter's life as irreplaceable. They weren't as close as they could be but they'd been a lot closer than she had been to her own mother and now Serenity was shutting her out. She wanted to know why, but she knew from the determined expression that she'd get nowhere today.

"Help Marila put your clothes together," Queen Serenity commanded wearily. "You'll probably be on Drue for at least a month." With that the queen left the room.