Hey people, WOOOHOOO 100 reviews! I love you guys. Thank you all soo much for your support, it really means the world to me. However I have some bad news and yes for a little while I was considering discontinuing the story but don't worry I decided that I couldn't do that to you guys. The bad thing is that it will properly take me a while to get the next chapter out, but I will do it eventually, I think it will proberly be the last or second last chapter..and yes it will have a happy ending. Hehe. Love you all!
Ps: I don't own sailormoon
To reviews on
To the reviews on SilverMo, PurpleRose44, eps, Becx, venusgoddess, Seagirl, aquahearts357, Silver Moon Goddess1: Thankyou guys so much for taking the time to review my story, I truly do appreciate the support you give me. I hope you all enjoy this chapter, the ending may prove a tad confusing but bear with me for it will all make sense in the end. Please review again, I love hearing from you! Love you all and thankyou!
To daisy31: All I can say that it will all work out in the end, but until then everyone will go to hell and back, and yes I do mean everyone. But how that happens I cannot revel. I'm glad that your enjoying the story and I look forward to hearing from you at the end of this chapter. Thankyou again!
To Sailor-Nekawaii: I know if Endymion was real he'd have me wrapped around his little finger. As for Luna well..that will reveal itself in time, I can't really tell you much about it..except that she will be causing trouble and stirring up a storm. Thanks heaps for your review girl! You have no idea how much your words mean to me. MWA!
To lavender-dream: I wanted to give you a special thankyou, your comment on my writing skills really meant a lot to me. I mean it's reviews like yours that keep me going and updating so thankyou! I hope you enjoy this chapter.
To Secret Heart: Thanks for pointing out the grammatical mistakes, but I have to say me and my editor are trying really hard to stamp them out hopefully it'll happen soon. I'm glad you enjoyed the story and I am absolutely honored to be your favorite author. Thanks so much for the review and all the best with your story! Out of curiosity what was it about the last chapter that made it your favorite?
To sexylucifer: the reason that Endy didn't grab her arm was because it would have been too predictable. I'm not sure if Serenity knows how Endy feels about it, I think she still has a pretty hard time trusting men, and endy isn't exactly an easy man to trust. As for what he's going to do to Seiya.well you'll just have to wait and see. Thanks for the review and enjoy the story.
To kochokwalo: All reviews touch me but your was just absolutely amazing, I can't begin to tell you how much it meant to hear you say that my words have 'senses' because I really work on trying to get the reader to see the story the same way I see it in my head, and to know that it's working is just an amazing feeling. Thankyou so much for giving me that. I know what you mean about courtesans and being actors 24/7, I think that's half the reason Serenity's conscious is bothering her as much as it is. Once again thankyou and please review again! Happy V-day to you too! (albeit a bit overdue)
To Maroon Heart: Your absolutely right about Luna her little letter will haunt her but I can't say what she said in it..you'll find that out when you read the chapter. And yeah, the aggressive endy is always sexy. You've got Serenity spot on, I mean in a way facing Seiya was the best thing that she could have done. Thankyou soo much for your review and I hope to hear from you again soon!
To Hopeless Dreamer 1125: It's so cool hearing you talk about the characters as if theyre real people, it definitely lets me know that I'm doing something right. I'm glad that your liking the interactions of all the characters. Hopefully you'll find that this chapter was also worth the wait. Please review again, I look forward to hearing from you.
To Raven Haley: What would Serenity and endy be like together? In a word dangerous, I wouldn't ever want to get on the bad side of those two, especially if they figured out how much schemes they could make up together. Well in this chapter you'll see what Luna has already done to Serenity, and as for her telling Endymion about Serenity's weakness well yes and no, remember Luna knows that Endymion might not always be the best outlet for her information. Well that is a hard question, you'll have to read to find out cause a lot of things happen in this chapter that will change many character relationships. As for Seiya, well I'm not quite sure, I think he's played out his role for the rest of the story, a cameo here and there but nothing too important, he donsen't deserve the attention. Thanks heaps for your review and if you have any question feel free to ask, I love answering them. Till the next chapter then!
To SilverWolf2105: Awww I swear your reviews always bring a smile to my face, I mean, damn you make me feel so good about my writing and I love you for it. I know what you mean, but I guess the question here is could Sere and Endy love each other if it wasn't for the games? I mean. Think about it. I can't promise anything with Andrew, but I shall try I'll give you that much. Endymion crushed? I doubt it, and so do you! Lol, nah don't worry you'll like what happens, and you have to tell me what you think about what happens at the end of this chapter! As for luna I agree it would have served her better to have just kept her mouth shut. As for your prediction, well, you'll just have to wait and see. I can't wait to get your next review so don't keep me waiting long. Mwa till next time!
To Amethyst-Heart: What can I say your reviews are so profound and so utterly humbaling that they often reduce me to a state of utter speechlessness, I could never thankyou enough for all the support you have given me, nor can I ever show you how much your words mean to me. Truly, thankyou from the bottom of my heart. Your compliments on my characterization really meant a lot to me as I spend a lot of time trying to get to know my characters and figuring what their motives are and what makes them tick. To tell you the truth there's a lot of me in Serenity, and in her I can really bring out my feminist streak, I couldn't let her be bullied by her times and yeah. Your spot on about Endy, he's never been faced with a person or situation that he couldn't manipulate to suit his own purposes, until he meet sere. He's furious and in love with her at the same time. Your right about the fact that something ominous will occur and I would love to get your opinion about the twist at the end of the chapter. A lot of the plot has yet to be reveled and a lot of the character relationships are about to be re-established and changed. If you go back and read chapter 2/3 (I'm not sure exactly which) you'll understand the meaning of Sere's words, and it will make a lot more sense. I know I'm trying to bring foreshadowing back, it's such a great technique and it can really drive a reader crazy..hehe. Thankyou so much for your review, and I hope that despite your heavy study commitments that I hear from you soon.
To Deadly Diva: Once again I want to thank you for all that you have done for me. You're help with the editing and the plot of this story. You've been my rock throughout this whole thing and I really appreciate it, you're the reason I keep going so thankyou. I actually hadn't thought about Andrew's father, but it does provide and interesting question, I shall definitely look into it, but your right, he crossed a line that never should have been crossed. True, but you see Luna never expected for Serenity to surpass her and she resents her for that. As for Serenity's benefactor..well you know me too well my friend and have no idea how undeniably close you are. True I like sapphire as the good guy, cause the story seriously needs one..but hey there's more to sapharie than what meets the eye. I know, that Endy setting serenity up with Seiya was harsh, but he did have his reasons, and they'll be reveled in this chapter. You are so right, Endymion is trying desperately to fight his feelings for sere but the more he fights the worse it becomes. I wanted to show you all that Endy's feelings for sere were real, that he wouldn't take advantage of her when she was vonourable. And no Serenity does not know the identity of her benefactor. Once again thanks for everything girl, you truly are my shining star.
To the reviews on Aria:
To freaky: Thankyou so much for the review, I truly do appreciate your support. I'd love to hear from you again, and I'd love to hear what you think about the end of the chapter. So hopefully I'll hear from you soon!
To Anonymous: Well you'll find out if your suspicions are right at the end of this chapter, do get back to me and tell me if they were. Thankyou you so much for your kind words about my writing, it truly means a lot to me and it keeps me going through my periods of writers block. I'm honoured to be one of your favorite authors and hopefully you'll enjoy this chapter as well. Once again thankyou.
To nifer: Thankyou I really put a lot of time into figuring out who my characters are and I'm glad to see that it is paying off. Enjoy the chapter and get back to me and tell me what you think.
TO MMHYUM: I know, I mean, why does Endy always have to be tortured, I really wanted to bring a darker and more human side of Sere in this story. Hopefully I haven't kept you waiting too long for the update and I hope you enjoy the chapter.
To MageQueenHoshi: Thankyou so much, editing does take a lot of work on both my behalf and that of my wonderful editor. It really means the world to me for you to say that I've improved, I mean that statement seriously made my day! I know I know, but I have to do something for your guys to keep reading, and I really wanted to show you that Endy's feelings are real and that he wouldn't take advantage of her when she was vulnerable. I've already been made to promise to deliver a happy ending so don't worry. Thanks for the review once again.
To Jupiter: Thankyou so much for the review, I'm gald you enjoyed the love scene, it was the funnest bit to write. As for Andrew and luna, well yes, They'll definitely prove troublesome in the future. Thankyou so much for all your support, it really means a lot to me. Thankyou, thankyou thankyou!
To bedasses; Well I hope that you enjoy this chapter, and do get back to me about what you think about what happens at the end. Looking forward to hearing from you soon!
TO Anonymous: You have no idea what it meant to me to hear you say that you had read my story 10 times, I mean I was completely speechless. Thankyou! I know Seiya is a slimeball but it had to happen and you'll find out why Endy did what he did in this chapter. I hope I haven't kept you waiting too long for this chapter and I hope reading it will give you as much pleasure as reading your review gave me. MWA hope to hear from you soon.
To jennie: Well, I have to say that I'm very glad that my story is getting such a reaction from you. I'd love to hear what you think about the little twists in this chapter, and I'd love to hear any predictions you have about the stories ending. And thankyou about your comments on my writing, it truly means a lot to me. I hope you enjoy this chapter and review! Lol. Thankyou11
To lacyloss: First of all let me first appologise, as it is 12 30 pm at the moment and I'm half asleep so this response may not make much sense. The good news is that you'll find out what Luna did in the first few pages of this chapter. I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long. Enjoy and tell me what you think ok? Love you heaps!
Now on with the story!
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
The door slammed closed with a resounding thud. The servants sighed in relief at the fact that their master was now in his room. While many considered him the kindest man that had ever graced the earth, all feared his temper. On arrival, he had stormed through the halls with such malice that it seemed that the fires of hell had taken residence in his body. He had pushed servants mercilessly against the walls if they had been unfortunate enough to stand in his way.
Endymion swore profusely under his breath; his body was shaking with the ferocity of his rage. He did not know how Serenity had found out about his scheme of revenge against his father's murderers. It was certain that if she had even the most minute details she would easily figure out every little thing that he had done. He had made sure that it was impossible to take any legal action against him, but gossip was a dangerous creature. And gossip was what, as the leading courtesan, she could do best. His reputation could be in serious danger and he could not have that.
As he began pacing, his glance fell on a letter that had previously escaped his notice. He walked to it with impatience, thankful for the momentary distraction. However, the distraction was not what he had expected. His eyes narrowed immediately on seeing the Medici seal. He pressed his lips together in order to control his anger and ripped the envelope open. He read the cursive words over and over again. It took a few minutes for the meaning of the words to register in his clouded thoughts, but when they did his anger awakened with a renewed vigour. His renewed rage caused him to crumple the letter violently and hurl it to the other side of the room.
He grabbed a bottle of strong whiskey from its resting place on a small ornate round table. The brittle crystal almost shattered under his brutal grasp. He poured the liquid carelessly, not caring in the least if the alcohol spilled on the expensive carpet. He downed the contents quickly and lavished in the burning sensation as the whiskey ran down his throat. However, the whiskey did nothing to subdue Endymion's anger. The memory of the words in the anonymous letter only ignited his rage further. He hurled his glass to the farthest wall causing it to shatter on impact.
"Damn you!" He yelled at the top of his lungs amidst his ragged breaths. "Damn you Serenity!"
He began to pace, a deep scowl marring his usually handsome features. He was swearing profusely, not caring if anyone heard him. Running a shaky hand through his hair, he stopped and took a deep breath. With calm controlled steps, he walked to the large French doors that lead to his ostentatious balcony. He grabbed the solid gold door knobs and threw the glass doors open mercilessly. He clung to the marble railing and threw his head back taking in breath sharply. The air rushed down his throat and reached his lungs with soothing cool fingers.
Now somewhat calmer, Endymion released the marble railing from his iron grip and gently rubbed his white knuckles. He gazed down at the channel running through the middle of the city. The lights that lit the nearby homes reflected in the gentle ripples of the water, giving it the impression of fragile glass. He slowly leaned forward and allowed his elbows to rest on the railing.
Despite everything his muscles still longed for her touch. He shook his head wryly amused at his own feelings and recent behaviour. The irony of the situation occurred to him and greatly appealed to his sense of humour, eliciting a soft chuckle from his lips. He had never met a woman that had not fallen for his looks, his charm, his money or enigmatic nature. He had used women, delighted in them the same way he did in fine furniture. Now that he had finally met a woman that remotely interested him, she was proving to be the most difficult creature that ever graced the planet.
Involuntarily, his mind returned to the anonymous letter. His fists clenched as he remembered the cursive letters that had ever so politely informed him that Serenity had been Andrew Medici's willing lover for quite some time. The images of the pair in the intimate positions of lovemaking plagued his mind. Like cancerous cells they multiplied, growing more explicit and destructive in nature. The thoughts almost drove Endymion back to the rage that had consumed him only moments ago.
Closing his eyes, Endymion cursed himself for allowing her to ignite his anger so easily. He reminded himself coldly that he could not afford to allow anger or jealousy to cloud his judgment. Too much was at stake. He linked his fingers and allowed his chin to rest on top of them, contemplating his next move. A smirk formed on his lips.
Serenity could not expose him if her hands were full with other matters.
Which left only one other matter that he needed to attend to, and that was the question of Andrew Medici. After all, no man touched his woman without paying dearly. The thought caused Endymion to halt in surprise for a second. Did he really consider Serenity to be his? His mind had only one answer for him.
If she wasn't his already, she very soon would be.
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
Serenity poured the thick heavy brandy into a small stout glass with shaky hands. She clenched the glass and pressed it to her lips. Throwing her head back, she downed the contents of the glass rapidly, her eyes clutching shut in response to the burning sensation. Her trembling lips had made drawing breath a somewhat more difficult task. She pressed her forehead to the palm of her hand and closed her eyes, hoping that the alcohol would soon numb her senses. Only one coherent thought echoed through her troubled mind.
When did life become so complicated?
She had thought that facing Seiya would have been her greatest challenge. But even after seducing him, she still had to find a way to terminate their supposed relationship without causing him offence. Then there was Diamond. His recent silence was beginning to worry her for she could not risk losing him as a future benefactor. Of course, the question of Andrew remained. She was well aware that he was growing more and more attached to her each passing day, but surely that was not her fault? A deep sigh of vexation escaped her lips. Of course it was her fault. After all she was the one that had manipulated him, despite how easy it was to do so. She clenched her head in her hands and stared down at what was now an empty bottle of brandy. She was carefully studying the way the light softly illuminated its soft curves. The bottle had provided a sudden source of interest as she was unwilling to even think about the last man on her list.
However, not everything was quite so bleak. Earlier that morning news had come that Seiya had cut all links with Jadeite and refused to do any further business with him. There were also rumours that Jadeite had been seen in a drunken rage demanding an explanation for what seemed an impulsive decision. Unknowingly, a small smile began to dance on Serenity's lips. Jadeite was a man of great pride, thus if Seiya discovered that she had deceived him and attempted to repent, Jadeite would have none of it. She gazed at her finely kept nails and focused on the last man she had to bring down.
A knock on her door broke her private reverie. A small servant boy came in and timidly handed a finely embroidered amethyst velvet bag. She thanked the boy and dismissed him indifferently. Opening the bag curiously she found that it held quite a considerable sum of gold. Her brows frowned with displeasure. Her mysterious benefactor who had commissioned her with crushing the Loredans seemed displeased with her. What other explanation could there be for him to reverting to giving her money, after the intimate gift of a necklace? She stamped her foot in annoyance. For now she was even more certain that her benefactor was Diamond and that he was feeling neglected.
She stormed towards her large wardrobe and threw the doors open with a vengeance. She had been invited to a dinner party tonight. Although at first she had decided against going, she now felt compelled to seek companionship. For in solitude, the thoughts of her mind were becoming quite bleak and overwhelming. Of course for any woman there is no greater cure for anxiety or depression then consenting to the demands of her own vanity.
After an hour had passed Serenity gazed at her reflection with satisfaction. After spending an eternity searching for the right dress and enduring the efforts of her maid, she looked perfect. Her golden tresses had been pulled up and then had been allowed to cascade down her back in a mass of swirls and ringlets. Her face had been powdered white and her tempting lips were the same shade of crimson as the silk of her dress. She then gently instructed her maid to bring her the necklace her benefactor had sent her.
Serenity pulled her hair up as the maid gently fastened the necklace around her creamy neck. A small gasp emerged from Serenity's lips in awe of the necklace's beauty. Diamonds and rubies sat amongst gentle curves of white gold that spiraled down her neck creating aesthetic perfection. Serenity smiled softly. The necklace not only complimented her attire, but also drew attention to her ample breasts. She slowly stood causing the material of her dress to rustle softly.
She was out for the kill tonight.
The carriage ride was a pleasant one. How could it not be after Andrew had ordered her one of the most expensive carriages money could buy? Serenity leaned back on the plush velvet seats and let her mind wander to her next target Malachite. She pursed her lips as she thought. Malachite was a very well respected military general. Many feared him and all respected him; after all he had many victories to his name. His skill on the battlefield was unmatched and his bravery one of a kind. A small smile began to dance on Serenity's lips.
Malachite, like every other general, was vulnerable when it came to mutiny.
The carriage came to a halt suddenly. Serenity stepped out of the carriage with renewed confidence. On entering the small house of her hostess she was quite overtaken by the charming atmosphere of the house. It was tastefully decorated and had the aura of a French country villa. She curtsied gracefully to her acquaintances and pretended to not notice the admiring and longing looks she received.
"That is quite a necklace." The sound of his voice made all the hairs of the back of her neck stand. A slight chill rushed down her spine as the his masculine voice resonated through the air. She turned to face him slowly, turning her eyes up in a seductive gaze.
"Most people greet others with a hello."
Endymion chuckled softly at her comment. He leaned down, most indecently, so that his lips were ever so slightly brushing against her ear.
"I'm not most people" He then offered her his arm as if nothing had transpired between them. Serenity resisted the urge to groan in frustration. If she did not accept him, everyone would see that something was amiss between them. The last thing she wanted to do was attract attention to herself and Endymion. After she had linked her arm through his, he slowly lead them to a clutter of chairs. Like a gentleman, he waited for her to be seated before sitting in a chair opposite from her own. Another man of average height and appearance sat near them. Serenity did not recognize him, but it seemed that he shared an acquaintance with Endymion.
"My dear Endymion, have you read the book written by Machiavelli? It is beyond my comprehension how it was allowed to circulate in such a fashion. Why the things it preaches are absolutely preposterous!"
Serenity could not but help smiling as the man's chubby cheeks flushed with indignation as he uttered the words with conviction. Endymion opened his mouth to respond, but Serenity cut him off.
"Yes Endymion, do enlighten us. I would love to know what a man of your position thinks of unconventional politics." Serenity uttered the words in a flirtatious manner, although she was very well aware of the implications of her statement. One of her brows was raised and her head was slightly tilted, making sure that Endymion was aware of the challenge she was putting forth.
"Well, my opinion can never be a pure one in the eyes of one such as yourself, who has such a high opinion of the church and adamant admiration for priests. I personally found your devotion to father Nephrite particularly humbling."
It took the outmost self control on Serenity's part not to let her jaw fall open with indignation at that moment. She pressed her lips together with a mixture of humiliation and anger. If Endymion had made such a comment in the past in the presence of strangers, she would have shattered into sobs and ran from the room. However not anymore, her rational side had a free rule of her mind and actions. Thus Serenity was able to maintain a cool exterior, and even retain her wit.
"My dear Endymion you flatter me. If anything is admirable it is your passion and shall we say respect for women." Endymion smiled and merely nodded in acknowledgement at the clearly sarcastic comment.
"What can I say I've always had a soft spot for the weaker sex." He replied slowly nodding to the gentleman on his left. He took particular care to emphasize the word weaker. Serenity laughed in response, she almost didn't consider his reply worthy of an answer.
"Answer me this, what is the worst crime a man can commit in the face of an enemy?"
Endymion held her gaze for a moment, his eyes narrowing in concentration.
"To underestimate him of course." He replied with the same ease and confidence that companied all his actions.
"Is that not what your doing with women? We are not as supposedly weak as you think. Furthermore does that appearance not make us more capable of achieving our own desires?" Serenity's tone while flirtatious did not take away from the serious sentiment that she was expressing.
"Are you confirming that women are nothing but vindictive souls attempting to manipulate us?"
"Have you not already confirmed that men are arrogant fools who are quite lacking in judgment?" By this time, the two had attracted the attention of almost everyone in attendance. The hostess cleared her throat rather loudly in order to subdue the heated glares the two were throwing each other. She slowly announced that dinner was served. In this way she was able to end the argument. For she, like everyone else present, could see that neither of the two would back down.
As luck would have it, Serenity was seated next to a military officer. Fortunately, he was more than willing to give her detailed accounts of his recent campaigns. Serenity asked seemingly naïve questions in regard to their food, tent and clothing. The officer merely considered these feminine whims and indulged her curiosity. He failed to notice the slightly calculating look in her eyes as she slowly absorbed and assed the information he gave her so carelessly.
Slowly a plan began to form in Serenity's mind and a smile of satisfaction began to dance on her lips. Endymion did not fail to notice this, nor did he miss the glimmer of pride in her turquoise eyes. He looked at her pointedly and raised an eyebrow, while also allowing the edges of his lips to curl into an enigmatic smile. She nodded her head to him defiantly, ignoring his questioning gaze.
The rest of the night drifted away with the mindless chatter of various acquaintances. Serenity entered her carriage immensely satisfied with herself. Within days the house of Loredan would be no more, meaning that Endymion would also fall into ruin. Quite fitting revenge in her opinion, after what he had done to her concerning Seiya.
Oh, how she would laugh when the time finally came. Of course, she chose to dismiss the thought that claimed nothing could be further from the truth.
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
Sapphire leaned back on his ornate chair regally. The rich cream fabric had a similar texture to silk. The embroidered flowers of gold thread against the cream were in a word stunning. The masterpiece was topped off with polished mahogany feet and headrests. Sapphire carelessly removed the expensive sepia coloured cigar from his mouth and exhaled. Swirls of smoke danced and intertwined with each other in mesmerizing patterns.
"I do not mean to cause offence, but I am certain that you did not come here for the mere pleasure of my company. Perhaps you should tell me what you really seek." Andrew stated, his tone betraying his impatience. Sapphire pursed his lips in reply, and slowly thought out his reply. He opened his mouth, but closed it once again choosing against the words he had wished to utter. Then he attempted again.
"I have come to observe that one of your courtesans, Serenity to be exact, seems to be behind the sudden shortage of Loredan investors." Andrew's face immediately drained of all colour. His posture became rigid with anxiety and beads of sweat became visible on his forehead.
"How?" he asked anxiously.
"Observation mostly. Don't be afraid my friend. I believe that we have much in common." Sapphire's statement rapidly caused Andrew's fear to be replaced by curiosity.
"Please, enlighten me."
"Endymion considers me a fool, and thinks he can use me eternally to reach his own aims. No more, it is time for the slave to become the master." There was deep resentment present in Sapphire's voice, while his eyes burnt with rage and betrayal.
"And how pray do I fit into this picture?"
"I have a proposition for you." Sapphire replied smoothly.
"You have my attention."
"While Endymion presents a calm demeanour to the world, the truth is he cannot support the house of Loredan single handedly. It would be a pity for such a fine and resourceful house to simply fall because of a negligent owner."
Andrew burrowed his eyebrows in thought as he listened to Sapphire's words with outmost attention.
"What are you suggesting?" He asked impatiently.
"I have with me the ownership forms of the house of Loredan. Since I am responsible for much of the paper work, I possess the authority to sign half of the property over to you."
"What would I do with a bankrupt whore house?"
"Are you telling me that the Medici cannot support another whore house?" Sapphire asked sarcastically. He chuckled at his own comment before continuing. "Rest assured Seiya du Barbaraq has already claimed the other half. I'm sure your combined means will allow you to support the house of Loredan."
"And what of Serenity?"
Sapphire did not miss the hint of intimacy and longing in Andrew's voice as he uttered her name.
"Why should we stop the child from having her fun? She can ruin Endymion, destroy his reputation and drive him to exile, which will allow you to take over without any obstruction."
Andrew allowed his face to rest on his left hand. He used a finger to rub over his upper lips down to his chin as he pondered Sapphire's offer.
"Of course if you're not interested, I have many other willing parties waiting." Sapphire urged. Andrew sighed and looked up he took out a quill and dipped the tip in rich black ink.
"Where do I sign?"
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
Serenity threw her head back and laughed heatedly. The brisk morning air was calming, overall the picturesque weather had made the Medici courtyard positively stunning. Orchids and roses were in full bloom; their enticing smells intermingling with the clean air splendidly. Speckled patches of sunlight filtered through the canopy of thick green leaves of the trees above. Serenity lightly touched her lips with a white lace gloved hand in a gesture of modesty while lounging on her oak bench. Her cheeks were flushed and her skin was glowing divinely. She leaned forwards unabashedly and placed a hand on the knee of the gentleman sitting beside her.
"Alan you are fast becoming one of my favourite acquaintances, why I have never known such wit."
Alan smiled embarrassedly at her statement, but could not help be flattered by it. After all, he had not had much female attention in his campaigns and to be receiving attention from the reigning Venus was almost overwhelming. Rubeus, who was sitting opposite them, chuckled softly. His fiery hair matched his impulsive nature and sharp tongue. However, Serenity was not entirely a good Samaritan and had not invited the two men from the goodness of her heart. Thus, it was not surprising that both men were in Malachite's regiment and very popular amongst their fellow soldiers. Their opinions would no doubt hold influence over the vast majority of Malachite's forces.
"Enough about politics, it's giving me an awful headache." Serenity pouted her expression indicating mock pain, the men smiled at her. They considered her all the more feminine for not wanting to hear about serious business.
"I'd love to hear about your campaigns. They sound so very different from my everyday life." Serenity asked a strange sparkle of curiosity and longing present in her eyes.
"Long days, hard nights. A campaign really separates men from boys."
Serenity smiled in a way that made Alan believe that his words were a revelation to her. While she really thought that his words could not have been more cliché.
"But everyone enjoys a decent fight once a while. The raging hearts, anticipation and final surge of victory, nothing is like it." Rubeus uttered, his eyes dancing mischievously.
"Nothing?" Serenity asked cheekily, and then giggled in embarrassment. The men joined in her laughter.
"It is a most rewarding experience." Alan concluded.
"Why I'm sure you ate like kings and danced in exotic robes of purple and blue." Serenity almost cringed at the foolishness of her own statement.
"Unfortunately not. Food was scarce during the whole campaign, and we left with the same shirts in which we had came." Rubeus replied carelessly, leaning back and taking a sip of his wine.
"Really, I though after Malachite's new found fortune-" Serenity stopped short and clasped a hand over her mouth. The men gazed at her with curiosity and urged her to continue. She leaned forward and indicated for the men to do the same.
"I'm not meant to say anything, but your general, Malachite, is one of the investors of the house of Loredan. I dare say he has made quite the fortune." She whispered the words slowly and urgently before leaning back and resuming her former position. Inwardly she cheered at the scowls that appeared on the two men's faces.
"I assumed that your leader's great wealth would have aided you immensely. After all, was he not wearing the finest fur during the entire campaign?" Alan had mentioned the last bit of information in one of his stories about the general's bravery. His eyes had darkened considerably while his jaw was clenched. While Rubeus's grip on the wine glass looked positively dangerous.
"He had told us he was experiencing difficulty, and delayed our payments." Rubeus's sneered more to himself than anyone else. He looked up at Serenity sharply.
"Excuse me madam, I must leave. Thank you once again for your generous hospitality." With that Rubeus got up and left in quite a huff.
"I'm afraid I shall have to depart as well." Alan graciously took Serenity's hand and kissed it. "It has been a rare pleasure."
Serenity smiled triumphantly when she was once again alone. All men were fools. Well, almost all.
A few days past and when Serenity took her customary weekly stroll through the town she was very satisfied with her handiwork. She had bribed many common whores to tell their serving lovers of the injustices they were enduring. Now the seeds of her deception were bearing fruit. All around she could see clusters of soldiers whispering heatedly amongst themselves. Their faces were often red with rage and their hands grasped their hilts tightly. They were like the delicate strings of a guitar, ready to break at the slightest provocation.
"This is no doubt your doing."
The hairs on the back of her neck stood instantly at the sound of his voice. A shiver ran up her back and caused her to tremble momentarily. She turned around sharply raising her chin, attempting to look down on him.
"I'm sure I don't know what you mean." She replied straining to keep her voice carefree. He saw through the façade easily, but his reaction was not what she was expecting. He grabbed hold of her hand unexpectedly and pulled her into a deserted alleyway.
"Have you lost your mind?" She whispered furiously, trying desperately to ignore the fact that he was practically plastered against her.
"Perhaps I have just found it." He replied enigmatically before leaning in closer. His lips were now a hair's breath away from hers. She placed her hands on his chest and pushed him away roughly. Drawing in a sharp breath she calmed down and regained her ability to think clearly.
"Just what is that you want Endymion." She demanded impatiently.
"You."
Serenity stared at him as if he had grown another head before rolling her eyes dramatically. She turned to leave before his voice stopped her.
"Of course, you can refuse my offer if you wish all your escapades to become known to your darling parents."
Serenity stopped dead in her tracks and turned slowly a mocking smile plastered on her face.
"What makes you think I would care if you told my parents?"
"I can tell that you care very much by the precautions you have taken to ensure they don't find out. Quite clever really, seducing your father's business partners and convincing them that your father would be more productive in Rome. Now Serenity do tell me, did you sign the deal during the moment of ecstasy or just after."
Serenity's smile turned to a hideous frown and her body began to tremble with rage and repulsion.
"If you were to breathe a word to my family I shall revel the way you brutally crushed the men who murdered your father."
"But you forget my pet, that it would take a great deal of time for that damage to truly harm me. And it could always be rebuked by a statement that you are nothing but a lover scorned. Your parents genuinely believe you to be dead. They would detest you if they found out you are a reigning courtesan, especially considering how foolishly religious they are. Such a burden would no doubt hinder your plans to destroy me." Endymion's eyes were twinkling with mischief and vexed her beyond belief.
"An hour." Serenity stated simply, her eyes as cold as ice. Her voice devoid of all emotion.
Endymion calmly walked towards her and placed a hand on her waist. His fingers began to gently caress her skin through the rich fabric of her dress.
"An hour can't possibly sate my desires for you. A night, from dusk till dawn."
Serenity swallowed forcefully, trying to maintain her composure. Truth be told she was worried about the dark lust that was present in his eyes.
"When?" She asked simply.
"Tonight."
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
Serenity was pacing up and down the length of her chambers. She stole a glance at the mirror for the hundredth time. Like every other time she was mad at herself for paying so much attention to her appearance. Damn it why wasn't she dreading going to him? If anything it would seem that she was excited. Which of course was an absurd notion despite the butterflies that were dancing in her stomach.
Damn him!
She didn't know how, but somehow this was all his fault. Her frustration was such that she thought any moment she would have to scream in order to stop herself from bursting. There was only one other time that she had felt like this. A deep scowl emerged on her features as a result of the memory. Yet strangely, the memory of Seiya's injustices didn't effect her like it usually did. She scoffed, comparing Seiya to Endymion was laughable.
A knock interrupted her private reverie. A small servant boy walked in bowed and timidly informed her that her carriage was awaiting. For long moments she hesitated. It disturbed her to no end that Endymion's blackmail was not why she was going through with this. There was no question in her mind that she had the power to stop him from acting on his threat. Yet a curiosity that caused a yearning deep inside her soul had prevented her from taking action from stopping the night from occurring. She tilted her head and walked to the carriage with a regal air that would be envied by many of the aristocracy.
The journey was a bumpy one for the carriage wheels managed to find every pothole in the road. However, this did nothing to distract Serenity from her chaotic thoughts. Anger, lust, fear and something that she could not identify were rolling through her at such exaggerated degrees that it was positively overwhelming. Slowly the dark outlines of Endymion's mansion became visible through the foggy night. The majestic house had the same intimidating demeanour of its master.
Serenity stepped out of the carriage. The clicking of her shoes against the pavement caused the pounding of her heart to intensify. Her nerves were like the delicate strings of a violin, strung so tightly that they would snap at the slightest of provocations. The handles of the ornate oak door opened by what seemed to be magic the minute she stepped before them. A footman greeted her and slowly lead her through the intricately decorated halls to what she remembered being Endymion's bedroom. The footman bowed elaborately and abandoned her to the dark shadows of the corridor.
Serenity stared at the door for long moments pondering on what awaited her on the other side. She could not help but wonder what kind of lover Endymion would be. The mere thought of his touch was enough to throw her senses into a raging fire of desire. She was aware that beads of sweat were accumulating on her body, but she could not wipe them off. The urge to run occurred several times, but every time something deep within stopped her. After what seemed like an eternity, she reached out turned the door knob and stepped inside.
A gasp of shock emerged from her lips as her eyes feasted on the sight before her. Hundreds of candles were sprawled across the floor of Endymion's infamous bedroom. Yet the candles did not create a romantic atmosphere, rather they illuminated the dark colours and rich textures of the room making it seem more like a monster's lair. The soft scent of jasmine reached her senses and the distant echoes of a lonely violin could be heard. Rose petals thrown on the floor created a path to the balcony were the doors had been thrown open. The delicate lace curtains fluttered in the breeze enticingly. Serenity slowly willed herself forward as if drawn by some magnetic charm.
On the balcony, framed by a dazzling view of Venice, was a small dinning table clothed in white satin. The food, enticing to the eyes and immersed in delicious smells, awaited them patiently. He was standing behind the table, casually leaning against the balcony railing, a glass of champagne in hand. A soft smile was playing on his lips as the breeze played with his untamed cobalt locks.
"You approve?" He asked, his voice velvety and soft. While the question was innocent, he had uttered it with a suave confidence that caused it to play on Serenity's senses, as if it was a form of sexual innuendo.
"There was no need for you to go to such trouble." Serenity stated flatly, turning to gaze at the channel running through the city.
"But of course there was." Came the swift reply, he gently motioned for her to take a seat and she obliged him for once without complaint or question. For a long time they sat in silence. Serenity was painfully aware of his heated gaze on her lips, her neck and her fingers as she slowly caressed her utensils. What was more unnerving was the warm feelings in the pit of her stomach that seemed to encourage his every inappropriate glance. She threw the knife in her hand against the delicate china in frustration. She then turned and glared at Endymion furiously.
"What is this game you are playing?" She asked, tilting an eyebrow as if warning him to be truthful in his reply.
"What makes you think I am playing a game?"
Serenity scoffed with indignation and turned away from him. Her eyes darkened with the memories of the night she has been forced to spend with Seiya.
"Do you really expect me to believe that you feel anything more than lust for me after what you did with regards to Seiya?" She demanded her voice trembling with the force of her accusation.
"The only thing that would have prevented me from taking that action would have been feeling nothing for you."
Serenity shook her head in disbelief while her cheeks flushed with anger.
"You are insane."
"There is reason in every madness."
Serenity glared at him before throwing her napkin on the table.
"Spare me." With that she got up and began to move away from the table.
"Now you can see him for what he is, a pathetic excuse for a human being."
His words caused her to stop and turn. Her narrowed eyes while still burning dangerously urged him to continue. He stood up and moved towards her slowly, his gaze meeting hers.
"Your memories were clouded by your infatuation with him. What I did may have caused you pain, but it also released you from his grasp. He no longer holds any power over you."
Serenity stared at him waiting for his words to register in her mind. His statement did seem to hold logic and caused her anger to slowly diffuse. Thus when he slowly traced her cheek with his fingertips, she did not flinch. Endymion pulled her closer before kissing her slowly and tenderly. She wrapped her arms around his neck demurely and deepened the kiss.
"Can't you see-" Serenity placed a finger to his lips and stopped him from going further.
"I know, I feel the same."
His eyes began to flicker with an emotion that she did not recognise. When he kissed her again it was not soft, but rather fierce with a hunger that seemed to have been growing from the dawn of time. He picked her up and took her back inside, laying her on the bed as if she was the most fragile creature on earth. His every caress, the way he kissed her whether it be on the mouth or else where was tender and harsh at the same time. He would kiss her so tenderly that it would melt her insides while roughly grinding his hips against hers.
Needless to say the night was a long and pleasurable one during which Endymion explored every curve and crevice of Serenity's body, and she of course returned the favour. Hours after they had finished making love Serenity's body was still on fire, her mind still foggy from the force of her climaxes. Yet what distinguished this experience so greatly from any other she had experienced before was the fact that in Endymion's arms she felt safe. While this terrified her, it also soothed her. However, she decided to merely savour the experience and to defer analysis to another occasion.
As the sun began filtering though the windows onto the entangled bodies of the new lovers, a soft knock emerged from the door. As female companionship was an almost nightly occurrence for Endymion, the butler did not hesitate to enter. He bowed slowly, and Endymion nodded to him, granting him permission to speak.
"Unfortunately sire the delivery boy has suddenly fallen ill. I was wondering if you would like me to deliver the diamond and ruby earrings to the house of Medici."
The butler's words caused Serenity's entire body to grow stiff with fear and betrayal. Slowly memories filtered through her mind of the diamond and ruby necklace that her mysterious benefactor had given her. A necklace that Endymion had complimented, while smiling with what she could now place as pride. It could not be a coincidence that he had planned to send her what seemed like matching earrings while she was having such success with destroying Malachite. Her body began trembling with anger as she turned almost violently to face him. Yet it made no sense. Why would Endymion want to destroy the Loredans, the house that belonged to him?
No, Endymion could not be her benefactor.
Could he?