I have pasted in some of the next season in on this chapter. Nothing major, just starting it all now rather than all of the sudden when Rini shows up, like in the series. Oh and this is a long chapter – you have been warned. Hope I don't have to tell who is getting hitched this time. Thanks to AnglAshlyM – she asked and now has her new chapter. Hey, I have had limited time this past summer (which is drawing to a close so it will be hard to update given I have almost all writing intensive classes this semester) and – as my Speech teacher loved to harp – "The squeaky wheel gets the oil!" If you have a fav fic – TELL ME SO! If you have ideas – see the previous sentence.
Sailor Moon is copyright © 1992 Naoko Takeuchi/Kodansha, TOEI Animation. English Language Adaptation © 1995 DiC Entertainment
Hearts and Hopes
Chapter Six
A Kitten, A Moon Wedding, and Nightmares Continue and Begin
Two days later the call came in that all had been looking forward to, Luna had given birth during the night to a healthy boy. Black with patches of white, just as all had seen in the vision the Tree of Life had given them. The night of his naming everyone arrived in Serena's room to find the three cats cuddling on the bed. Serena had temporarily moved in with Darien to give the little family a chance to get to know one another in private. Raye smirked with a wink. "Wonder which family she's talking about."
Mina chuckled. "Doubt she was indicating either one specifically."
Serena and Darien both blushed hotly. Their blushes grew hotter when Jadeite grinned. "Now that all of the Generals are hitched, I wonder what excuse they'll use next to postpone the wedding."
Everyone laughed a bit harder, but kept it down for the small kitten that was sleeping next to his mother. Serena sighed. "After graduation for we Scouts?"
Nephrite smirked. "Given the fact that time has been held for you girls in class so that all of you have finished more work than first expected. Plus you each have been set up into higher grade levels through testing by the schools."
Serena went pale. "Nephrite, what are you skating around with that smirk on your face?"
At that he tried to pull on an innocent look. "Moon Princess, I simply wanted to point out that all of you would be graduating at the end of the semester."
Darien joined in paling. "And that will be?"
"Next weekend." Nephrite's eye glittered with his pint up mirth. "Now about that date?"
Serena blushed. She was scared that she was pushing Darien into this. In the early days of their engagement both had agreed that divorce was not what either wanted, so they were going to get to know one another as they went through making the wedding plans. Now it felt too rushed.
Darien too was worried. Worried that she would say no, worried that she wasn't ready, worried that she would only say yes only to get the others to stop. In those beautiful eyes he could see that she too was afraid. Yet, deep inside there was a hope … that he would agree. He refused to let her down. "The weekend after that, my Princess?"
Tears of joy filled her eyes and her smile beamed even brighter. "Yes, my King. Oh, Darien!"
The rest smiled, until Serena chuckled. "After that we get to help pester Amy and Raye."
Before either young woman could cause a ruckus to wake their son, Artemis interrupted. "Well, it's about time you two got together. Didn't get that luxury back on the Moon Kingdom."
"I remember, Artemis. That was one of the regrets that Queen Serenity had before she sacrificed herself for us all." Luna was still fighting her hormones even after birthing her and Artemis' baby boy.
Smiling, Irene transformed herself into Queen Serenity. "And yet you have seemingly forgotten that I have not left any of you."
"Mother?" Serena smiled with tears in her eyes. Her beautiful mother, how could she forget that the woman never left her?
Serenity smiled and nodded. "Now, I believe the wedding plans can be held off until later on. There is another special reason that we are all here."
Artemis smiled down on his true love. Once Luna nodded, he took a deep and proud breath. "Today our son will have his name. Seeing as the Kingdom of the Moon is returning and yet is all new, Luna and I agreed on naming our son Mika, meaning New Moon."
Almost as if he already understood them, Mika sighed and opened his eyes at his mother. Luna smiled and nuzzled the little boy. Mika stretched as his father too nuzzled him, giggling when Artemis accidentally hit a ticklish spot. Everyone smiled at that.
Luna swore it would be a long time before she'd get in the family way again, but everyone could see that she loved being a mother. She coddled and cherished her son and the boy's father. Unlike ordinary cats, their feline species was very human-like. Gestation might be feline in length, but the babies needed extra time to grow after they are born – nearly eleven to fourteen times longer than average cats. In fact Luna's son laid next to his mother, ate, and slept (none of the family wanted to know about the rest) for the first six months of his life.
Little Mika loved when he was handled by his parents' friends, and purred very loudly. He especially liked the baby that would sometimes cuddle next to him. She smelled sweet and never spoke or laughed too loudly. Okay so sometimes she could stink, and she cried really loudly sometimes. But he trusted her and felt like he was supposed to be near her.
Serena gave the little family as much time as they wanted. When she came home to plan the wedding she decided to sleep in the guestroom. Artemis stayed with his love and kitten for the first few weeks, according to him it was to bond with his love and son. Unfortunately, everyone else knew better.
Mina was torn between morning sickness that was worse than any that the others had faced, and mood swings that pushed all but her husband and Queen Jessica into waiting for safety to visit. But, she was happy. Somehow she didn't let her grades slip in that last week, though she did stay at home much of it due to her pregnancy. Amy and her mom had been worried about the battle Mina had no place being in having an effect. Once Mina started having dull cramps at school, she was put on bed rest. Only once did she get out of the house. Nursery Duties.
The group came together to create a nursery for the other two expecting mothers. Mina was only allowed to help Zoicite and Brooke with the designs, but all three mothers were forced to skip the vast majority of work – just as Molly had been. The closing ceremony they had done for Desiree's room was repeat by all though. A handprint and the name of each person in their family sealed the door as a sign that this child was one of them forever.
Once the crabby moods subsided for the most part, the entire group came to help set up her baby's nursery. Once again the door was given the family seal. And each door had a small paw and hand added on – Desiree's and Mika's.
The girls worked extra hard on their last final exams. Serena put off her wedding planning to put in some extra study. It showed too – she out did all of the Scouts except for Amy, missing only one question at the end! That sent the Scout leader into full flake mode with joy. Hey, they let her have it because the young woman had done what many had thought to be impossible. In fact the girls' graduation was a special celebration where all their schools combined their graduation ceremonies on the campus of the college the following month. Papers, news cameras, and thousands showed up to honor the girls. After all how many times did young ladies graduate at the ages that most girls were finishing middle school?
Serena decided to take a year from school to take a breather and make her life with Darien before planning on future studies. Really she just wanted a breather from school period. She hadn't told the others about Darien working to go to school in America. But, she knew that she would be needed in Tokyo. So, they would be separated for a time. She trusted her Muffin. But it didn't mean that she wouldn't be lonely without him.
Mina wanted to teach physical education in elementary school, and Bryan was ready to make all of his wife's dreams come true. The school year after next she was set to go on to the University. She wanted to finish her pregnancy and have a little time with their baby.
Amy made plans to go to Germany to go to learn to be a pediatric doctor, once she was of the minimum age to register. Her work with birthing Desiree solidified her interest in working with babies, so until she was of age she was going to help her mom with her friends' pregnancies.
Lita was already accepted in an elite culinary college. One of her youmas had learned to turn into Lita's duplicate in case the young woman would need to go into battle.
Raye took over more of the duties at the temple because she was afraid that her grandfather would end up in the hospital again. Plus, she still hadn't decided what she wanted to go on to school for.
Molly was already set helping run Stanton International with her husband, and taking care of their daughter. Once the girls had their children and were off to work or school, they were more than welcome to leave the kids in the business' daycare center.
Daycares were usually expensive in Japan, and they had some female human employees they really didn't want to lose, so Molly got a few of the youma trained in childcare as well as hired young women to look over dozen of children they had planned. Serena was even going to help out now and then, to get herself ready for the little girl she had seen in the Tree vision. However, Nephrite and the other Generals went a little over board by designating an entire floor of the building to the new daycare center! And they all designed it with their own children in mind – play and education up to elementary school. In other words the kids were going to be spoilt rotten and very smart.
First they had to celebrate. With the media following them so, they all agreed to party at the temple. Grandpa flaked out worse than Serena ever did. It was the first celebration that Desiree was at Raye's home, and the first time she was in the public view. In every picture her favorite kitten was with her, seemingly guarding the child. The graduation and Desiree were all over the news and papers that night and the next day.
It was the last weekend in March that the wedding the universe had been waiting a thousand years for finally came about. Serena and her mother helped to design the same dresses that had been created for the last ceremony.
Serena's gown was beautiful! It had an under dress of satin that was colored ethereal moon ivory, a soft off blue highlighted ivory. Over that was silk chiffon of the same color. The empire bodice was created out of a soft near white lace and had medieval braids crossing around the bodice and continuing in the back in a flattering V shape with a lace border that acted as trim to the back. The sleeveless over dress was made of crushed velvet of the same color as the under dress, and was open in the front to show the under dress. Both had a long simple train. The sleeves went down her arms and were made of beaded and embroidered lace. White blossoms were wrapped around each of her buns, which had pinned to them the veil that was made of net veil in diamond white that had an overall pattern of vine leaves that was eighty inches in length.
The Scouts' gowns all were the same design. Raye's color was a soft faint dusty rose, Amy's was a faint sky blue, Mina's was a faint soft gold, Lita's had a faint green, and Molly's was a faint silver. All were created from crusted velvet, with Celtic knot work in the color of the gown. Each woman wore their crowns of their homelands. Raye's crown was made of rubies, onyx, diamonds and gold. Amy's was created with aquamarine, blue sapphire, lapis lazuli and silver. Mina's was made out of yellow topaz, tourmaline, zircon, and gold. Lita's was made of topaz, peridot, pink zircon, and gold. Molly's crown was the combine of both her and her husband's kingdoms, created out of garnet, serpent stone, rose quartz, and a combination of silver and gold.
Brooke's gown reflected the kingdom that she now jointly ruled in name with her husband. It was similar to the scouts with a cape to distinguish her. Her crown was created of bronze, silver, opal, emerald, and diamonds. Kat was in a gown that was very similar to the one the group remembered her wearing the day they first discovered who she truly was. Only she had no wreath of beautiful flowers, no wings, and no jewels. She merely wore her wedding band, a ring that she never removed ever. She truly tried to smile, but all could see that she was not even half way to the beaming grin she wore at her own wedding.
Jayde wore her bronze cornet she received after her parents were named rulers of their kingdom. Glorianna's silver cornet suited her perfectly. Both girls wore their court finest. As too did Zoicite.
All of the male Generals went from military uniform to Full Royal Dress like Darien, just as they had to the weddings on Tintage. They all waited at Darien's apartment for the car to take them to the wedding site.
This time it was Darien who was pacing and a nervous wreck. Yet, his guardians could easily see that the young man was troubled by something. Nephrite took and sat their Prince down. "Darien, what's wrong?"
"Just a really awful nightmare. I can't even really remember most of it. I only remember Serena dying and a voice telling me that it will happen because I marry her." Darien confessed.
Malachite shook his head and grinned. "I know the type of nightmare. I had a similar one when I first was mated to my Zoi. That he would be killed and I would be forced to live with that vision in my mind and heart for the rest of my days. I simply challenged myself to take care of him and treasure every moment while trying my best to insure we would have many more together. And you see how much Zoi and I have come through, sire."
Jadeite sat at the King's other side. "We all have faced much to get to this night, Darien. Many close calls and many nightmares – both real and dreamt. I still have those bad dreams on occasion. I just look at Brooke and see that she is laying there beside me breathing and dreaming peacefully."
"I wonder if she's only going through this because of the past or maybe because certain people hounding us. I don't want Serena to feel like she doesn't have a choice. I love her enough to let her go, even if I'd die inside without her." Darien sighed as he stood and walked to the door.
"Darien, Serena has loved you from the start. Even when you two were at one another's throats, you were important to her. I remember a time she didn't know who Tuxedo Mask was, but was willing to risk being trapped to have time alone with him." Nephrite pointed out.
Darien smirked. "Although, it was really you that time Nephrite. But she and I got a little time together to talk. She was flaking and terrified, but I still loved her. All I knew was I had to get her out of that shaft, even if it cost me my own life."
"Exactly. Each of us love our angels that deeply. We would give our lives for them to live." Malachite crossed his arms over his chest.
Jadeite smirked and winked. "Besides, it isn't like you are going to be all on your own when it comes to protecting the Moon Princess."
Darien shook his head. "That is obvious, seeing as you guarded her from even me when I was brainwashed."
"As we vowed to you long ago, our Prince." Malachite pointed as he saluted and bowed slightly.
Just then, former Earth King Aiden and his Queen, Kyna, entered the room. She beamed at her surprised son. "Did you really we would miss this day of all days?"
"Mother … Father …" Darien's throat was restricted with part pain at their loss, and joy at their return to him the one day he wanted them there most.
Aiden nodded. "After all, it would not be of the old Moon Kingdom for you to go into your wedding without your parents there to give you to the Moon Princess and bind the two Kingdoms as one."
The three male Generals smiled and nodded to one another before giving Earth's former rulers their due respect. The three friends were deeply hoping for this to happen for their friend and High King.
At her parent's home with the girls, Serena too was treated to again seeing her family as they would have been if the war had not torn her father and younger brother away. All three were in full royal dress for this day.
Queen Serenity smiled on her daughter of two lifetimes. "Do you realize why I have done all I can to make you put off the calling and scheduling my daughter?"
Serena shook her head. She had assumed that her mother had wanted to make things easier on her being so close to her high school graduation.
"I know you wanted the wedding we had planned so long ago. If you will return the Silver Crystal to me my child I will make sure this will come true more so than could be done by modern day stores and planners." Serenity smiled.
Beaming, Serena turned the Imperium Silver Crystal over to her beloved mother without a question or word. After all the jewel of power had once been the Moon Queen's.
Serenity focused hard. The crystal levitated between her hands and shimmered. "Imperium Silver Crystal, symbol of my line and rule, I beseech you to give my daughter her dreams. Moon Crystal Power!"
Serenity raised the crystal above her head as it flooded the world with magical light – a light that gathered into a beam that left the Earth and hurdled through space to an area of the lunar surface. This light spread unseen by even all of modern man's devices across the moon's cold surface, leaving only the American's space untouched in respect. In heartbeats, the moon was aglow with magic of the purest love and friendship.
This light turned back the timepiece of time for the orb that moved around the Earth only. Slowly the moon twisted in reverse and all of the slow deterioration of the ages reversed. Buildings once lost and covered by lunar soil were unburied and began to right themselves. The atmosphere returned and with it the water of the planetoid. Plants and animals, people who had been reborn on Earth in different identities returned as they once were in mind and dress. Finally the Royal Palace returned to its former splendor. The place was dress for the utmost grandest of Royal celebrations. After all, it was not everyday that the Crown Princess got married.
Darien looked around to find himself and the Generals in the Royal Gardens! Looking at his parents stunned, Darien softly spoke to not draw attention to himself. "How?"
Kyna smiled gently. "Serenity wanted this day to be more than either you or Serena every dared to hope for. Yes, we are on the moon. And yes this will be legal in this age. All that our people and they of the Moon Kingdom who have been reborn on Earth will remember is the wedding that you and Serena planned out."
Darien wondered how Serena was taking this.
Serena was stunned. She and the girls all looked around to find themselves in a rich Royal tent. Cream colored cloth was held up with ten silver poles that each had several roof poles holding up the top of the tent. Inside were silk draperies, censers burning sweet smelling incense, candles and torches giving off a warm glow, exotic and many extinct blossoms, pieces of furniture that looked so inviting, sweet lunar water, and light fruits.
Turning to her mother, the young Crown Princess of the Moon had tears of joy and hope in her eyes. "Mother? Are we?"
"Yes, my daughter. We are home again. However all who are not holders of our family's secrets will only remember what we planned for Earth." Queen Serenity smiled softly.
Kateri looked shaken to her core. "I cannot survive in magic until my beloved Dallan returns to me."
Serenity embraced the worried young woman. "He shall return when you give him that which you think he wishes. Yet, it must be with your whole heart."
Kateri sighed. "Of that I now have no doubts. Yet, how can I survive this?"
"This is not the magic his curse has poisoned your body towards. Lunar magic and Fae magic are very different. You can safely be near the Silver Crystal's magic, though not the magic of your home Isles." King Kendal explained.
Then they all heard the trumpets. Samuel beamed at his big sister. "The summoner's call."
Outside in the garden the Royal Summoner indeed stood at the entrance to the Ritual Parthenon. He stood military straight as he exclaimed loudly. "Hear ye, hear ye! The wedding of Her Majesty, Crown Princess Serena Isis Wilona Tsukino of the Moon Kingdom, to His Royal Highness, High King Neo-Endymion Darien Somnus Eurus Shields the ruler of the Earth Kingdoms is about to begin!"
The three Royal Guardian Generals all took position before Darien. Queen Kyna rested her hand in the crook of her son's left arm and smiled. "Time to see my son gain the love he once lost."
King Aiden took his son's right elbow with a proud face. "I am proud of you, my son."
"Our son, love. Our son." Kyna lovingly corrected her husband.
The six of them led the large gathering into the Parthenon. The area had no roof, only tall columns that were spaced eight feet apart from its neighboring pillar. At the top, a garland of flowers enclosed the space. Seats for all of the masses were in the circle. In the Northeast was the Nuptial tent – the place Darien knew his love, her family, and their lady friends were waiting.
This was it. He was finally marrying the angel he so deeply loved. Then why was there that nagging feeling of dread in his gut? Inside he couldn't shake off the image of his Serena perishing … the voice's warning. 'Prince Darien, remember, you must keep your distance from Princess Serena … I know that is going to be difficult for you, but you must stay away from her.'
Darien mentally sighed and threw the fear away. After all the Generals were right … he wasn't keeping Serena safe all on his own anymore. He had the Scouts, the Generals, and the youmas there to help him in this life. Besides, it was only a nightmare – nothing more.
Finally properly excited again at the prospect of his wedding day, Darien took his position with his parents and Guardians in the center of the ritual space. In fact, this looked nothing like the wedding that haunted his nightmare. That helped to calm the Earth King. This had to go right this time --- for his love … his beautiful Princess.
Akil, the High Priest, stood before the alter. He wore high ritual robes of white that had a ribbon of earth-glow blue down the edges in the center of and cuffs of the robe that was accented with blessings and spells of protection embroidered in gold. His head was bald, but his eyebrows gave away his advanced age with their pale silver color. A cornet of gold with powerful runes engraved all around it was upon his brow.
Beside Akil, was the High Priestess and his wife – Layla. She was a ravishing young woman. Her dark hair and eyes were further emphasized by her soft pale skin. Her lips were a deep rose plum color. Her dark lashes were so long and thick. Overall the woman never found need for makeup. Her white ritual gown was a halter with a silver train that went from the back of her neck to the floor and whose ends were gathered around her body and hooked to the engraved silver broach in the center of her gown. The top layer of her hair was pulled up and held up with an antique silver double pin. A chain belt of silver rested on her hips.
Akil raised his arms above his head, lifted his eyes to the sky and the Earth above, and called out, "May the place of this rite be consecrated for the Gods. For we gather here in a ritual of love with two who would be wedded."
Layla smiled as she crossed her arms over her chest and nodded briefly. "May the groom, Earth's High King Neo-Endymion and the bride, our Princess, Serena please come forward and stand here before us, and before the gods of nature."
Nephrite, Jadeite, and Malachite all moved aside. Darien and his parents moved to the left of the circle's center. It was time to see his love again. Gods, Darien felt his heart racing with anticipation.
The door of the tent was opened by the two guards Darien on then noticed had been stationed on either side of the door. He remembered that the callers would emerge first.
First out was Senshi Princess Mina of the planet Venus and her younger sister, Princess Aurora. Mina was glowing with her pregnancy as she smiled beautifully. Aurora was proudly acting very Princess like. Magically suspended between them was an glowing yellow orb that remained between the sisters as they walked around the inside of the columns. Darien remembered his once long forgotten lessons from the Generals about the colors and elements along with their correspondences. Yellow was taught to him meaning Air – the essence of attraction, charm, confidence, balance, and harmony.
Attraction --- yes he and Serena held a deep attraction for one another, even after all of the centuries apart. He remembered when he had felt that poor algebra test smack his head. The moment he turned and saw Serena, even with her crying he felt something for her. He hated to see her cry, and knew there was something in her that was special … something in her that he wanted to see come to life.
He then remembered the charm his love carried. She could make friends so easily. Of course she never bothered to learn the words rejection or resign when it came to making people happy. His charm was a bit darker and more reserved, but it pulled her back to him.
Darien knew he had little confidence, but that he had was added to and nurtured by Serena's. When she set her mind to something, it was going to happen – no matter what it took. He lovingly remembered how that confidence was part of what sealed him to the leader of the Scouts.
He also thought about how this once crybaby meatball head had came in and twisted his world he had come to accept as all he'd ever have. The balance and harmony she had given him had been worth all they had came through to get to this place in time.
Finally Mina and Aurora made it to the Eastern quarter. The orb rose to high above their heads and exploded into the now element sign for air. Mina took a breath and called out proudly, "with the blessing of the clear pure air, we call upon the powers of the East."
After a beat, Aurora mimicked her elder sister. "Welcome, O'powers of Air! With clever fingers weave tightly the bonds of Heart, Spirit and Love between these two! Let none undo the fabric of their love!"
The symbol shimmered before turning into dust that fell and created a lit censer that gave off the sweetest smelling smoke. The girls both nodded as was expected of their stations and then joined their family in the front of the crowd.
Molly and Raye came next on either side of a deep red orb, and began to walk the path to the South quarter. Darien thought back.
When he needed her the most, Serena overflowed with will, strength, vigor and courage. She did some stupid things trying to save him from Beryl, but only because she refused to accept that he was lost to her. All because of the love she felt for him, a love that Darien gave back with all he had within him. He had only remembered her becoming ill once, so he didn't question her health. Nor did he question the passion they both felt for one another. There had been many a time he had to feign sleep or take her for a walk and sometimes home because she had aroused him so deeply with the heat of the passion she showed him.
Then he remembered that day they faced the Doom Tree. There was a giggle and the vague shape of a girl. What stood out in his memory was the beautiful pigtails that were so like his Serena's. Darien held no doubt that the two of them would indeed be fertile.
Once at their position and the orb had raised and became the symbol of fire, Molly beamed. "With the blessing of the inner fire of the sun, we call upon the powers of the South."
Darien noted the irony of Molly's words, as she stood as the Scout of the planet that was once the nearest to the sun.
Raye was trying hard to remain formal, despite she wanted to chuckle for joy. "Welcome, O'powers of Fire! Ignite the Passion and the Love for this blessed pair. Ever burning, yet never consuming one or the other!"
The symbol dissolved and fell to become a great red and gold candle that was cold … for now.
The girls nodded and joined their families. Next came Amy and Zoicite, escorting a blue orb to the West quarter.
Darien finally faced that Serena had brought to lonely and aching life a tranquility that he never before knew existed in real life. Her understanding nature and forgiving heart gave him a new world he never wanted to lose. Her patience at times was one that could come near to outdoing any saint's. That brought a smile to his face as the orb rose and exploded in the West into the symbol of water.
Amy was shy and sweet in her gown, but her voice showed the hidden strength only her friends, guy, and family knew without doubt was within her. "With the blessing of the sacred waters of the pool, we call upon the powers of the West."
Zoicite was as beautiful as Mina had been, but was every bit the Queen she now was. "Welcome, O'powers of Water! Bless this couple with a love as deep as any ocean! May richness of body, of soul and of spirit be theirs ever more!"
The symbol fell and became a bowl of water. After that Amy and Zoicite nodded and returned to their families.
Finally, out came Lita and Kateri with a green orb. Kateri still ached for her husband, but was fighting to each day make him proud of her.
Darien didn't want to, but he couldn't help recalling the nightmare he had. Honestly, he didn't think he could be as strong as their friend if he ever lost his Serena. He was deeply praying for all the luck and prosperity that the green orb offered. Serena had changed him to where he knew he couldn't go back to being alone. She had cultivated and nurtured love, hope, and devotion like none every had within his soul and heart. To lose her beauty ever would kill him without a single doubt.
The green orb raised and exploded into the symbol of Earth. Lita spoke out with all the joy in her heart --- a heart that knowing Serena too had changed deeply. "With the blessing of the deep and fruitful earth, we call upon the powers of the North."
Kateri looked as if she wished she could cast her own magic, but refrained until the time she could be rid of the curse that haunted her. "Welcome, O'powers of Earth! Bless this man, this woman with thy strength and wisdom. To be theirs as long as love lasts!"
The symbol fell and became a bowl of soil. The pair nodded and left to join the extended family they both belonged to.
Nephrite, Jadeite, and Malachite spoke in unison at last, before joining their wives and the extended family. "Gracious Lady, Gentle Lord, grant this blessed pair thy love and protection. Blessed Be!"
A few beats later, Samuel exited the tent with his head high and a smile on his face. He and Darien had gotten along great from the start. Now they were true brothers in all but the last manner.
From behind him, Queen Serenity and her husband, King Kendal, escorted the loveliest vision of beauty Darien had ever seen in both of his lives. Serena had kept the gown a secret, but even if she had described it --- he would have never pictured the lovely angel that now stood just outside of the circle. Her smile lit the world for Darien, and he only then realized how he had missed that light while they had been separated. He held himself back from running over and pulling her into his arms as the three of them entered the forum and took position on the opposite side of the center from Darien and his parents.
Once they were in place, Sammy remained in front of his sister as their parent moved to the very middle of the circle and joined hands the way Darien soon would with Serena – left-to-left and right-to-right. Then the couple spoke in unison as jets of magic shot from his signet pendent and her Silver Crystal. "Circle of love and light we now cast, encircle this place apart from other worlds now fast. Hold safe this rite from all malevolent intent, guard all who with revering heart are now present. At bay hold those not in accord with me. As I will so mote it be!"
The beams of magic collided and blended into a dome of power that was clear like a bubble but was clearly silver and gold light. The two colors swirled and twisted as a living and protective force.
The couple returned to stand on either side of Serena. She caught Darien's eyes and beamed brighter. He couldn't help but smile at her. That was how happy being this near to her made Darien. He hoped that it would forever be that way. Yet, the nagging fear seemed to refuse to be forgotten completely. He determinedly decided to ignore it.
Akil began the service. "In the name of the Ancestors whose Traditions we honor …"
Layla smiled as she spoke. "In the name of those who gave us Life …"
Their hands joined as they spoke together. Darien hoped as deeply as Serena that they too would always remain so devoted to one another. "May we all unite in Love."
The gathered company joined with Serena and Darien at that moment. "Blessed Be!"
Layla smiled at the couple. "Standing before us are Earth's High King, Neo-Endymion Darien Somnus Eurus Shields, and our Crown Princess, Serena Isis Wilona Tsukino. May we all bid them hail and welcome."
The crowd erupted with a happy "HAIL!"
Layla closed her eyes and bowed her head slightly before she went on. "Gracious Lady, Gentle Lord. Grant your blessing and protection upon these two, who have come before you, to celebrate the sacrament of marriage in the presence of their Peoples.
So mote it be!"
Everyone echoed her with a "blessed be!"
Akil waited for his wife's eyes to open before speaking. "Good friends, we come here today to witness the joyous celebration of the love between High King Neo-Endymion and our Crown Princess Serena, supporting them in their decision to be joined as one in the sight of this company and of the Gods. Blessed be all who attend this glorious celebration, and blessed be those about to be united in the bonds of love."
Akil explained. "In token that this, your marriage, is not just a casual joining or merely the binding of only to Kingdoms, I ask that some member of your family speak for you."
He looked at Serena and went on. "Crown Princess Serena Isis Wilona Tsukino, is it true that you come of your own free will and accord?"
Serena smiled. This was really happening. She was getting married to her guy. Still a part of her was feeling afraid that she was pushing him into it. Yet, he looked like her truly wanted this. She only hoped that she was doing the right thing. "Yes, it is true."
Nodding his acceptance, Akil went on. "With whom do you come and whose blessings accompany you."
King Kendal looked at his baby girl for only a moment before speaking loud and clear. "I, King Kendal – co-ruler of the Moon Kingdom, speaking as the father of the bride, declare that High King Neo-Endymion shall henceforth be welcomed into our Realm as Serena's husband and the throne's future King."
Queen Serenity knew the deep fears of each of her now children. It was strange how similar they were to her and her own loving husband. "I, Queen Serenity – co-ruler of the Moon Kingdom, speaking as the mother of the bride, accept High King Neo-Endymion as my daughter's chosen consort and future King of the Moon Kingdom, as my daughter hath asked of me. May our love and welcome strengthen the bond between them."
"So Mote it Be." Akil and Layla said in unison.
Layla then spoke to Darien. "High King Neo-Endymion Darien Somnus Eurus Shields, is it true that you come of your own free will and accord?"
"Yes, it is true." Darien was sure of that. He wanted to be there, and he wanted to be Serena's husband more than anything.
Layla accepted this, and then asked. "With whom do you come and whose blessings accompany you."
"I, King Aiden – once ruler of Elysian and High King of the Kingdoms of Earth, speaking as the father of the groom, declare that Crown Princess Serena shall henceforth be welcomed into our Realm as Neo-Endymion's wife and the throne's future High Queen." Darien's father said proudly.
Darien's mother gently squeezed her son's elbow in a gesture of support and love before giving her public blessing. "I, Queen Kyna – once ruler of Elysian and High Queen of the Kingdoms of Earth, speaking as the mother of the groom, accept Crown Princess Serena as my son's chosen consort and future High Queen of all the Kingdoms of Earth, as my son hath asked of me. May our love and welcome strengthen the bond between them."
Akil and Layla smiled and accepted the declarations together. "So Mote it Be."
In the South quarter, the red and gold candle suddenly burst into life with a flame. This showed all that the six vows that had been spoken up to that moment were the honest truth. This allowed the ceremony to go on. Many were grateful to have seen the candle come to life.
Layla raised her hands in a welcoming gesture. Crown Princess Serena and High King Neo-Endymion, please come forward to stand here before us and before the Lord and Lady."
Led by their families, Serena and Darien took their places in front of Akil and Layla. Serenity quietly placed the Silver Crystal in its normal place on Serena's chest. This shows all that Serena was at last on her own in the ceremony, that Serena was in her mother's eyes a grown woman. The families embraced their child and then left to watch the rest of the ceremony in the center of the front of the guests.
Akil looked to his Princess. "Crown Princess Serena, why have you called for the circle of protection and the audience of your Family, Kingdom, and that of the various Kingdoms of the Earth?"
"To be joined in heart, soul, honor, and duty to Earth's High King Neo-Endymion as his wife, consort, and Queen." Serena answered.
Darien smiled as her created one of the magical red roses that he always uses to guard this woman he loved deeper than his own life. He offered it to her. "I welcome you with all my heart and soul and honor and deepest joy, sweet Princess. This red rose of my love for you never wither or fade, for to be with you is not mere duty."
Serena blushed at her Muffin's words as she accepted his rose gift. Until then she had never been certain that he had felt so deeply for her.
Layla continued on. "High King Neo-Endymion, why have you come to this circle of protection with the people of your own Kingdoms before the audience of the citizens of this Kingdom?"
"To be joined in heart, soul, honor, and duty to the Crown Princess Serena as her husband, consort, and King." Darien knew that was barely enough to give a sense what he was ready to do for this beauty before him.
Serena used the Silver Crystal to create a once rare, and now extinct, Star Orchid. This was a bloom that only grew on the moon. It was also one of the plants that she and Darien once planted long before while they had been getting acquainted with one another. She gave it to Darien, who was visibly moved by the gift. Serena was pleased by the look on her Muffin's face. "I welcome you with all my heart and soul and honor and greatest joy, my love. I will be able to face any and all duties with you at my side."
Knowing what was to come next. Serena and Darien went on to take one another's hands and wrists – right-to-right and left-to-left – and then took a step closer to one another. Serena smiled at Darien. "I give you my hand in marriage. Take my hand as a symbol of my love. With this hand, I promise to hold you, cherish you, and respect you always."
Darien looked deeply into those eyes he so desperately loved. "And I give you mine. Take my hand as a symbol of my love. With this hand, I promise to care for you, provide for you, and to be your friend."
Serena smiled as she fought to keep from crying. "As I hold your hands in mine, I feel your love."
"And I feel your love; our love is not only for this moment, but for so long as our love lasts." Darien smiled softly. This felt so good … so right.
Serena's heart skipped a beat. Darien had changed the wording to be similar to Kateri's vows. His sneaky grin told her it was because of their discussion about how she had been impressed by the thought of being bound for more than one life and yet having the release if their hearts ever changed. She nodded and swallowed her tears back. "Yes, for so long as our love lasts."
Akil bound their joined hands and wrists. Layla looked at those who had been gather for this beautiful ceremony. "Will all of you, present here and witnessing these vows, assist and support these (two) people in their union?"
Everyone nodded and agreed in voice. "I will."
Akil spoke next. "You stand before this company and before the Gods, seeking to become one with each other. You have entered into this union with open eyes and full hearts. If either of you, or anyone present here today, know of any reason why these vows should not be made, speak now."
None spoke or made any sound for what felt like an eternity. Finally Akil smiled and nodded to his Princess. Serena looked into Darien's eyes and gave him her vow. "I, Crown Princess Serena Isis Wilona Tsukino – future Queen of the Moon Kingdom, in the name of the spirit of God that resides within us all, by the life that courses within my blood, and the love that resides within my heart, take thee, High King Neo-Endymion Darien Somnus Eurus Shields, to my hand, my heart, and my spirit to be my chosen one. To desire and be desired by thee, to possess thee, and be possessed by thee, without sin or shame, for naught can exist in the purity of my love for thee. I promise to love thee wholly and completely without restraint, in sickness and in health, in plenty and in poverty, in life and beyond, where we shall meet, remember, and love again. I shall not seek to change thee in any way. I shall respect thee, thy beliefs, thy people, and thy ways as I respect myself."
Darien was having a hard time keeping his voice steady, but he forced it to remain stable while he gave his only love his vow. "I, High King Neo-Endymion Darien Somnus Eurus Shields – Ruler of Elysian and High King of the Kingdoms of the Earth, in the name of the spirit of God that resides within us all, by the life that courses within my blood and the love that resides within my heart, take thee, Crown Princess Serena Isis Wilona Tsukino – future Queen of the Moon Kingdom, to my hand, my heart, and my spirit, to be my chosen one. To desire thee and be desired by thee, to possess thee, and be possessed by thee, without sin or shame, for naught can exist in the purity of my love for thee. I promise to love thee wholly and completely without restraint, in sickness and in health, in plenty and in poverty, in life and beyond, where we shall meet, remember, and love again. I shall not seek to change thee in any way. I shall respect thee, thy beliefs, thy people, and thy ways as I respect myself."
Akil questioned the pair before him. "As the Sun brings light to the Moon and Earth do you High King Neo-Endymion and Crown Princess Serena vow to bring the light of love and joy to the union?"
Serena and Darien both smiled softer. "We do."
Layla could see all of the ceremony had only been words and movements, for these two had been married in one another's eyes for some time. "And do you vow to honor each other as you honor which you hold most sacred?"
"We do." The couple knew that it was nearly over with. Soon there would be nothing to hold them apart.
"And do you vow to maintain these vows in freedom, for as long as love shall last?" Akil asked. Though he could see that the question was completely unnecessary.
With a nod to one another, Serena and Darien spoke as one. "We do."
Layla somehow removed the cord without untying it and laid it on the alter before moving the ceremony forward. "But you cannot always be physically joined and therefore the exchange of rings is one of the deepest symbols of a marriage. It is a constant reminder, a shared touch between a man and a woman. The circle is a symbol of the eternal. To give a ring to someone you love is to say that your love has no beginning and no end."
Akil took the next part. "All things in Nature are circular - night becomes day, day becomes night and night becomes day again. The moon waxes and wanes and waxes again. There is Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter and then the Spring returns. These things are part of the Great Mysteries."
Samuel carried the rings up to Layla, who gave the rings to the couple. Slowly each slid the band onto the other's hand. Layla smiled as she spoke. "This bond I draw between you: that though you are parted in mind or in body, there will be a call in the core of you, one to the other, that nothing and no one else will answer to. By the secrets of earth and water is this bond woven -- unbreakable, irrevocable; by the laws that created fire and wind this call is set in you, in life and beyond life. Above you are the stars, below you are the stones; as time passes, remember..."
Akil could see the young couple was becoming impatient. Ah, young love. "Like stones should your love be firm. Like a star should your love be constant. Let the powers of the mind and of the intellect guide you in your marriage; let the strength of your wills bind you together, let the power of love and desire make you happy, and the strength of your dedication make you inseparable. Be close, but not too close. Have prescience with one another, for storms will come, but they pass quickly."
Layla wanted to chuckle for the way the pair before she and her husband were barely paying attention to what was being said and yet hearing every word at the same time. "Be free in giving affection and warmth. Have no fear and let not the ways of the unenlightened make you uneasy for the Lord and Lady are with you always. Ever love, help and respect each other and then know truly that you are one in the eyes of the Gods."
"Air for hopes and dreams; Fire for the spark of love; Water for harmony and healing; and Earth for strength. May these rings be so Blessed." Akil said as he and his wife took a step back in pride.
Layla knew this was what everyone had been waiting for. "Then seal your promise with a kiss."
Not needing any further prompting, Serena and Darien melting into one another's arms and kissed with all of the love and passion they held for one another. The gathering all cheered and applauded excitedly at this. It took several moments for the pair to come up for air.
Once it quieted slightly, Akil spoke up. "Let those assembled here bear witness that Crown Princess Serena and High King Neo-Endymion are joined in love. May their love partake of the beauty, majesty and power of the sacred lands each was first born to and may they grow together in wisdom, joy and harmony. My own blessings and the blessings of all those assembled be with you."
Layla beamed. "The blessings of the Lord and the Lady be with you."
"The blessings of the ancestors be with you." Akil said proudly.
"And with all that grows from your union." Layla's words brought a slight blush to the couple that everyone chuckled at.
Akil looked at everyone as he announced. "So let it be!"
Everyone echoed his words and sentiment full heartedly. "So let it be!"
After a long reception, the group returned to Earth. Serena went with Darien to his apartment … no, now it was their apartment. That felt so strange, yet right. With all he had planned for them and money being tight, they had agreed that they would just have a hometown honeymoon. But, that was not how it was to be.
When the couple got off of the elevator, they were stunned to find all of the Generals, the Scouts, Kateri, Brooke, and the kids, along with Queen Jessica and Serena's family standing in the hallway. Serena smirked. "Guys, did we join in on your honeymoons?"
That gave her chuckles in response from all but Kateri. "Did you really expect that we would allow you two to only have a hometown honeymoon with all you have done for us?"
"Guys, listen …" Darien tried to explained, but this groups was not going to be put off.
Nephrite spoke up. "We Generals all especially owe the two of you. So, you two are to leave town for nothing but fun and privacy for the next two weeks."
Jadeite smirked. "We already have everything covered, boss."
"And you two missed the vote – in which we all agreed that you two deserve vacation time." Kateri smirked.
Shaking her head, Serena sighed. "And this vote took place?"
"Yesterday." The group chorused.
Malachite smiled. "After all that you two have gone through and have done for all of us, you certainly couldn't expect us to let you two down in this way."
Jayde and Glorianna smirked as they carried over and sat two bags at the newlyweds' feet. Molly rubbed her infant daughter's back as she smiled. "Look, The rest of us were told to go on a honeymoon, so we are simply returning the favor."
After that the couple's guardian youmas transported them away.
A blink of an eye later, Serena and Darien were looking up on a hill to a beautiful cabin surrounded by the edge of a forest. Serena fought the urge to cry as she took in the beauty of the scene. Wood walls, slate roof, a huge front porch, and stone steps from the porch to the dirt path to them. The place was fully lit and looked so warm and inviting. There were red roses, beautiful pine trees, wildflowers, and full view of the moon above. It was humid but nice. Then she felt her husband's arms wrap around her shoulders. "Oh Darien. Am I dreaming?"
"If you are then I am, and I really don't want to wake up." He sighed in her ear. "How about we go in and then do some exploring tomorrow?"
Serena nodded with a smile. Just as they reached the porch the door opened for them. They knew their youmas were at work as always. If anything went wrong, some would be there to fight while the rest rushed home for help. Darien gathered his new wife into his arms and carefully carried Serena through the door.
The first thing that caught their eyes was the living room with its lit fireplace. It was made of gray stones and filled the room with warmth. The rest of the light came from candles and lanterns. On the other side of the living room was a glass door and an archway they soon discovered led to the kitchen. To their left, magical orbs lit the stairs that led above them. The place was terrific. Better than either of their dreams.
Hours later in their loft bedroom, Serena was safe in her dreams resting her head on Darien's chest. Yes, she had whimpered a little at first, but really she had taken that first time better than Darien's worse fears. Now they were one in all possible ways. Still, Darien couldn't fight off the gnawing dread in his gut that was keeping him awake. Could something or someone try to kill Serena because he was now her husband?
Slowly he drifted off. He went back to that moment he and Serena became husband and wife … that sweet kiss. No, it wasn't right! This was an Earth church … not the Moon Kingdom! They started to walk up the isle and Serena was smiling. Then it happened … the scene disintegrated around them. The voice echoed out. 'Prince Darien, you must distance yourself from Princess Serena. Even as her husband, this you must do.'
Darien growled. "I am King now, and I am not afraid! Serena does not only have me guarding her!"
'All the extra protection did not keep her safe before.' The voice charged.
"Only because we underestimated our enemy and Beryl stole our best warriors. That will not happen again!" Darien shouted.
The voice wasn't about to stop. 'Are you certain of that? Or will the last you expect to turn will?'
Then Serena was taken away by a bright white light. He shot up in bed crying out her name, and instantly felt Serena wrap herself around him.
"Darien, it's okay. Just a bad dream." Serena spoke as calmly as she could in her fear.
Darien pulled her tighter to him. He was grateful to have her close. None of their friends would betray them. He had to believe it. "Sorry my Meatball Head. Didn't mean to wake you up."
"Hey, that's a part of being married, Muffin. We stand by one another … or lie beside each other in this case." Serena chuckled.
That sweet sound brought a smile on his face. She was right, they were not two separate people now. Never again would he be alone. It felt so wonderful to belong with someone. "Come here beautiful."
A worried look was on her face. "Do you want to talk about it, Darien?"
"No. Just my worse fear of losing you." He sighed as she cuddled closer.
Serena was quiet a few moments and then she took a breath. "I won't leave you Darien, not so long as you want me with you."
"Hope you don't mind being stuck with me forever." Darien breathed her scent in to help chase the last of his nightmare away.
Serena giggled. "Um, I was about to say the same thing."
With a true smile on his face, Darien rubbed her back. "See we are already talking for one another."
They didn't see the two sets of red eyes glimmering through the window, nor did they hear the chuckles ringing outside evilly.
Sorry that it took so long – writer's block is absolutely evil. Next chapter will set up for the break up in the next arch --- I could never accept these two breaking up only because of nightmares like the ones Darien had in the series. Would have wrote on but WB has hit again. Even worse school is coming up soon. I'll try to update soon though.