A gentle breeze blew the thin fabrics of his tunic and pants, cold grey eyes watching the slow march of the caravan through the city below his palace on the towering dunes. Kunzite knew the day was coming, spent a bit of time each morning standing in just this place watching the sand float across stone steps while the day broke into warm colors of orange, gold, and violet kissing the horizon. He'd been corresponding with the King of Elysium purely as just a royal servant to the Middle Eastern realms for several years, never understanding the urging offers his King extended for him to travel to the legend land. Kunzite had a hunch he'd end up there sooner or later but he hadn't counted on having such little time. He loathed the idea of leaving Zara behind, and there was still so much work to be done in his own Kingdoms, but as his stare fell upon the Elysian crest of the golden rose, he felt something powerful stir inside him.
He stood on firm feet, body and mind scarred by his various victories having fought and won his first war at the young age of fourteen, a minor skirmish in comparison to the most recent. Kunzite was unmatched, a force of nature. A product of his destiny he assumed, being one of the Heavenly Kings of Earth was left unspoken by his father who brought him into the world without an education of what that meant. He had always been stronger than most, smarter, more cunning than men of twice his age. Kunzite was worshipped by some, ruling with a very hard hand and built his army up with harsher conviction. The harder a soldier was pushed, the more grateful he'd be for his strength in victory, and should he fall into the arms of death he could be grateful that it wasn't because he was weak.
At the young age of eighteen, he was already a celebrated King, a warlord, economic and financial genius, and both loved and feared by his people. His father had been a disappointment as a human being let alone King, and Father. He was killed in combat when he was only six and left him with no family and little aid to turn their city into the crown jewel of the Middle East. Dying was perhaps the best thing the old Sultan had ever done for him, leaving him to be raised by a doting Nanny and a staff of councilmen and scholars. Never had the people of his lands seen such prosperity, a King who trained and fought with his armies and personally enforced his own law. He was a fair and just ruler, with the reputation for brutality both on the battlefield and with the women that warmed his bed.
Most claimed it was because of his beauty, his strange silver hair that he wore long and smooth just below his shoulders, and his pale grey eyes like storm clouds over the desert sands of his tanned skin. His features held few attributes similar to his people and yet there were subtle similarities that one might have to look for to recognize. His face was fierce, sharp and angular with a strong jaw and cheekbones and well formed mouth that held popular with the women. Kunzite was already imposingly tall, his limbs long and formed with well defined muscle that held power most men did not possess. His soldiers would tell you that he held enough power behind his cold grey eyes to cripple an entire warrior tribe with a glare alone, that his bare hands were lethal but to beware when those hands took up a sword.
His lips tensed in a disapproving frown as the Elysian carriage pulled to the front of the airy palace he called home, shifting on his feet to give the air of impatience. Some would say the palace was close to Heaven based only by the number of stone stairs it took to reach it. Kunzite never put much stock in things like Heaven or Hell, Gods and Goddesses. There were societies in the neighboring realms nearby that were completely obsessed, and while their stories reached his ears he dismissed them just as quickly. He was aware that there was truth to them, a harsh reality he paid little mind to in order to cater to his people, but also defiance. People of his world meant so little to the all powerful beings reigning outside the atmosphere of their world, he figured he'd only extend them the same courtesy.
Kunzite's stance was meant to intimidate, arms crossed over his chest bared with visible scars from the recent battle beneath the open tunic he wore. Eyes hardened as he watched with stone-like grace while the heavily armored Elysian messenger began the long trek in the heat up the stairs toward him. He almost had a mind to feel sorry for the man, baking no doubt in heavy armor with the Sun beating down hard overhead. The man was only going to tell him what he already knew, to prepare for a new Government he'd already begun to implement. He did not feel bad however, because the man was here to deliver him to a destiny that Kunzite had no say in.
His pale eyes squinted slightly as the man approached, lips tugging downward further in appraisal of the soldier's sweat soaked reddened face and lack of breath. The man crossed an arm over his chest, bowing deeply with his free arm extended out with offering of a simple parchment that quivered in his shaking hand. Kunzite shifted on his feet, his posture and stare demanding attention when his hand extended to take the parchment with fluid movement.
"Your name soldier." He commanded, unfolding the paper and skimming over it with stone eyes. It was exactly as he thought it would read, slight personal touches added by the King who thought he knew him. Kunzite was no arrogant man, but realistic where it counted, and the Elysian King knew nothing but whispers of his courts translated through others and into his ears.
"Jenson your Grace." Kunzite frowned and his eyes shifted from the paper to the brown haired man who barely reached his chin. He accepted the wrapped fabric bag from the soldier as well, a new uniform he'd be expected to wear upon arrival when a new caravan would come to collect and bring him to his new home in two weeks time.
"You would do well to walk with your shoulders back and head high if you are going to wear that golden rose." He gestured to the Elysian crest of a gold rose and royal blue banner over the man's heart.
"Yes your Grace." Kunzite's brow raised with a brief further appraisal the way this man's voice quivered slightly.
"You will also do well to regard me as your Commander. And train harder, this is a warning, because I will accept no weak soldier in my army. They would wear that armor and endure this heat without a sweat to their brow on these stairs, do you understand me soldier?" He looked rattled, but he nodded.
"Y-yes Commander." He swallowed hard and Kunzite waved him off in a dismissive gesture. He almost chuckled at the manner with which the younger man shuffled down the steps in a hurry to get away.
The uniform was stiff, a thick fabric that wasn't rough but certainly was not soft. Kunzite set it aside, determined to enjoy his lands while he could because he didn't know when and if he would ever return to the beloved sands and oasis that graced the colorful and fragrant culture of his people. Being that he already prepared for a government structure to function in his absence, quick to remind them with astonishing clarity that he was still King of these lands, Kunzite decided to enjoy as much drink and as many women as he could before he was to set off to be third in line to the throne of Earth itself.
He packed very little. The King had insisted in his letters that they would have all he'd ever need in Elysium but there were things Kunzite saw as non-negotiable if he was supposed to call this strange land home like the oils and soaps he favored he set to order monthly with well arranged billing. Based on the uniform, he packed some looser clothing for loungewear since from the sound of it that thick canvas garment he'd been provided would be well lived in.
Most importantly was Zara. Kunzite hired her own house staff that took up a wing in his palace closest to the home he'd retired her to. She had people to cook for her, clean, nurses and doctors on staff. Zara just wasn't faring well anymore with her crooked back, vision problems, and he noticed that her mind was going just slightly. Kunzite took his last night in his lands with her to enjoy a quiet supper of their favorite foods. He read a book in silence while she sat beside him attempting to sew.
"Your mother would be proud of you. The man you've become." She said out of nowhere. Kunzite rest the book on his lap and peered beside him at her shaking hands. "Your people are proud to call you their King..."
"But are you proud Zara?" He could feel the well of emotions tightening his throat, knowing it was the last time he'd ever hear her voice, or see her kind and wrinkled face. She was perhaps the only person who had ever seen him appear vulnerable.
"Oh Kunzite..." The tears pricked his eyes at the lack of formality used toward him. It was then that he decided he hated formalities, and his name had never sounded sweeter than on this worn old woman's voice. "I am proudest of all. You are the Son and family that I never had. You brought me joy in my darkest of hours... I only wish I could have given you a better life."
Her hand lifted shakily to wipe tears from his cheeks. Kunzite had never cried once in his eighteen years, not even when he was mortally wounded, or his Father struck him as a child. But this- to lose her, was far more excruciating.
"My life has been made complete with your care and wisdom Zara...I would have been a worse man and even poorer King." Kunzite's voice was a mere whisper, his large hand lifting to press her frail hand to his cheek and kiss the thinning skin of her palm.
"You have a greater life ahead of you now, a purpose most people wish they had. It is an honor of the highest to be chosen for your rank, and I hope above all hope that you find peace, and maybe love." He swallowed hard, holding her hand in her lap. "Oh don't look at me like that... a King deserves a Queen at his side. A woman that can handle your scandalous affairs."
"You know I never intend to marry... bearing a Son would be fruitless if he is to be a slave to the crown like myself. Who would tend to him if I am killed? Another bastard left to live the life that I have." He sighed, leaning back against some cushions. Zara stared up at him with fiery amusement. "I wouldn't dare placing a woman or child in the position to fear for me every moment. "
"You'll meet someone some day that will make you question all this Kunzite. Mark my words she'll disarm you and you will never want another woman at your side." Kunzite chuckled at this, raising his brow with a good natured pat to her hand.
"That so? I can't fathom any woman would be worth the trouble." Zara joined his laughter, a welcome change from the tears.
"She'll have to be a Hell of a woman for certain if she's to capture your heart and make it her own."
"I think you're mistaking me for a man to make his heart so easy to capture. If it's not guarded I might fail at the oaths I must take to the Golden Rose." Zara nudged him lightly, her head falling to rest at his shoulder.
"Oh Kunzite... it's not a matter of guard. Love is a silent predator. You'll be in love before you know it's even happened."
His lips set, the older woman at his side falling fast asleep before he could retort, or ask her if she had fallen prey to love before to have such knowledge about it. He sat like this a while to ponder it all, a mother's hope for her child for the blissful realms of love and happiness. It wasn't for him, he'd known that for years. A boy born to the life he's had didn't allow much room for it.
Morning came quickly and the Elysian carriage was irritatingly prompt, and Kunzite was a man to appreciate a tight schedule. The uniform he wore was constricting, the cape heavy cumbersome, though Zara gushed over how handsome he looked Kunzite was ready to be free of it already. The old woman spared him her tears, it didn't help that he knew they'd come once the carriage pulled away from the only home he'd ever known.
"You will ensure her every need and whim is cared for." Kunzite commanded, icy glare drifting slowly over the leading members of his new Government. That glare that could make a lesser man cower, one that suggested the meager nod they gave to him was not enough. "I mean it. Any motion or act of neglect will be swiftly rectified."
"Of course Sultan. We understand that Zara is family, she will be regarded as your Mother." The leader of this group spoke up finally, a stout bearded man who was kinder than himself yet held the same resolve in his ideals. Kunzite knew he had chosen well in this man when he had stepped in sometime over the years to replace an elder member. He had hopes his lands would be ruled in gentler hands under this Government. Even beneath him there was a certain edge, and his people had lived in fear for so long. He nodded, placing an affectionate hand on his new leader's shoulder, allowing his eyes to soften just so in his gratitude before he stepped to embrace the old woman beside them.
"You will write me." Kunzite placed his hands gently on either side of Zara's face, needing to bend to press his forehead to hers in affection. Her nearly black eyes had become somewhat clouded so he knew she would need assistance with any form of scripture.
"Of course I will, my little Kunzite." She beamed up at him, seeking to choke him with the love he saw, the pride in her. Zara's arms wrapped around his waist, and Kunzite swallowed down that horrible, dry, knot in his throat with a tight embrace of his own. He kissed the top of her head, taking a moment to memorize the floral shampoo she favored so much. Violets, she smelled like violets. Kunzite offered her a smile, strong and sure though the punch to his gut was stealing his breath with longing for a home he had yet to leave. With a last kiss to Zara's forehead, Kunzite gave them all a salute, one arm crossed over his chest so his fist rest over his heart and he bowed. The salute as a soldier for Elysium.
Once secured into the first carriage in the small caravan of his belongings, Kunzite did not look back at the small party that gathered to see him off. He knew that to see Zara's small form disappearing beyond the horizon might shatter him, that he would lose the will to follow through. It only took hours before he was unbuttoning the first three of his uniform, taking slow, deep breaths to calm his anxieties. Kunzite had packed the carriage with as many books as he could, knowing the trip would be long he wanted to learn more about Elysium, and these Heavenly Kings he was said to be leader of, to educate himself on things he tried so hard to ignore. Like he would have had the time anyway, he was too busy making sure his people were cared for.
He'd already been a King for twelve years, a slow start since he was a child but he was so blessed to have the support of scholars and councils that forced him to learn things the hard way, forcing him to learn things all too quickly. Kunzite knew that it was Zara that had seen to it. Reached out to tutors, and members of the old Sultan's neglected council because a child has no place creating laws or deciding what is best for the hundreds of thousands of people under his crown. It was her voice in his ear asking what he wanted to accomplish, helping him prioritize and even letting him down gently when he would command something on a child's whim. He smiled to himself in private because in those early years it was Zara who had been Sultan, not the six year old King.
Days went by into weeks, they stopped when they could, and Kunzite slept when he could. The carriage was confining for his rather tall build and after so long his temper was just always beneath his skin, he'd already called the carriage driver every name in the book out of irritation alone. The driver laughed it off of course when Kunzite apologized during one of their stops later, he knew the cabin wasn't exactly comfortable for a man of his size and assured him the driver's seat was no less accommodating.
Kunzite hated being cold, and in contrast with his homelands that's exactly how it felt in the strange and foreign lands they traveled. He learned that Elysium had rapid seasons of intense cold and heat with everything in between. This intrigued him of course because he had never seen snow, or the colors of autumn. He had never seen anything but gold sand and blue waters so despite his temper lingering ever close to the surface of his skin, Kunzite was captivated by endless fields, oceans of grasses and the canopies of forests. He even felt mild fear by the imposing mountain ranges, only really feeling calm by the endlessness of the sea.
Night had fallen when they crossed the borders into the legend lands of Elysium. The driver's sharp call woke Kunzite from a dreamless sleep warranting a slurred name at the poor man before the General pushed the curtain to his window aside to peer out into the night. His pale grey eyes widened and Kunzite threw the curtain open completely. They were in dense forest but even through the door he caught the fragrant smell of jasmine and his gaze was greeted by lush green lit by thousands of fireflies that danced through the night. The Moonlight was so bright here he could clearly see hints of purple, pink, red, and blue flowers and the wildlife that grazed through the babbling brooks of streams and lakes. Kunzite noted as the forest seemed to thin out some, that there were even small villages nestled in the trees and could vaguely see firelight or the burning ember of someone's pipe in the darkness.
Forests gave way to farmlands and small towns that were still filtered by the soft blue light of the Moon above. He noted all the houses and streets were made of stone and elegant architecture laced and accented by ivy and flowers that he had never seen before. Even Kunzite, the stone-like warlord cracked a gentle smile when they passed through a small city and a group of people sang around a bonfire while beautiful women danced and laughed. The closer they drew to the more populated areas near the Elysian City, the more people he saw all vibrant and beautiful and so full of life even if they were just sitting on porches telling old tales and legends of fearsome Gods and beautiful Goddesses and Kunzite could smell their sweet tobacco through the window, mingling with the earthy smell of soil and flora. Elysium made Kunzite feel things, and suddenly the sands of his home world were rendered dull and lifeless in comparison to his new home which appeared to be a massive eden of gardens and temples and lavish manors.
As they approached the Elysian city, Kunzite caught the fresh scent of the sea. One side opened through fields and he could see the harbor, the other lined with thick forest that opened up to more cliffs over the ocean. The greatest spectacle as they drove through the streets of drunk men, brawling outside of bars and happy artisans working late into the night, was the Elysian palace.
They passed through the largest stone walls Kunzite had ever laid eyes upon, greeted by two guards who opened the massive golden gates onto the lawn that still held manors, stables, farmlands, sea and forest. The skyline was occupied by the castle's massive turrets and towers, a mountainous structure that stretched on seemingly for miles. It was nestled against the cliffs overlooking the ocean and the air was thick with the scent of roses. He was anxious, mostly to get the hell out of the mobile prison he rode in, but anxious to meet the King he's corresponded with since he was a child. To meet the brothers he was to lead, and the young Prince he was to guard.
The carriage approached another set of gates, black iron with a large golden rose crested in the center and in mere moments they were pulling up in front of the imposingly elegant castle. Despite his body's screaming at him to get out and stand, stretch his cramped muscles, Kunzite took a moment. He'd done nothing but prepare and strategize these past weeks since he had little else to do, but as he gazed out the window with pale eyes he took a breath knowing his life was tied by destiny and it stared him straight in the face. Kunzite could only hope this would be a life worth living, that he would end his days fulfilled.
The palace was nestled high up on the cliffs above the seas and as Kunzite slowly stepped from the carriage a cool, very fresh breeze filled his lungs and he almost kissed the ground beneath his boots. He managed to keep his face solemn as he assessed his surroundings despite his aching muscles and joints that screamed at him from the long weeks of travel, that carriage was far too cramped for his six foot two inch frame. He pulled his long silvery hair to the side to rub at his aching neck, lifting his chin to gaze up at the stonework of the sprawling castle before him. It was gorgeous, colored stained glass, ivy creeping up the stone, and the sweet smell of roses with the sea salt lingering on the air all around them.
The front doors to the palace opened, the lower ranked guards immediately issued an Elysian salute to three younger men who emerged from the tall heavy doors speaking in quiet tones. Kunzite gathered quickly by their matching uniforms that these were the three other Legendary Shitennou, his brothers and fellow Heavenly Kings. He quickly regained his posture and serious expression with assessing grey eyes and they seemed to do the same to him, falling into silence and pausing only a few feet in front of him. Kunzite was not a man to make note of another man's beauty, but there was something striking about each of their appearances that was more than just King-like.
The first boy was massively tall for his young age of sixteen and his bulkier frame told him he was a trained fighter with broad shoulders and yet his limbs were long making him appear leaner than he was perhaps and not stocky. He appeared to be made of raw power and yet his face and the smile that graced it was one of the friendliest he'd ever seen. His hair was longer than Kunzite's, falling in deep waves of chestnut brown down his back and big warm brown eyes even friendlier than his smile. The man crossed a powerful arm over his chest in salute and gave a deep bow.
"I am Nephrite, Heavenly King of the Western world. Welcome my brother." Kunzite nodded in respect but his face was more than likely a cold mask of weariness. This didn't phase the larger man who only smiled broader, even if his eyes spoke of exhaustion.
Next to Nephrite was the shortest of men, clearly the youngest of them made all the more comical next to the mountainous boy at his side. This man's build was smaller, streamlined and much leaner than all of them. His face was angelic, like a painting popular in the European lands Kunzite assumed he came from and he wondered if this boy inspired those paintings. His features were gentle, not feminine per say but softer with youth. His eyes were a vibrant green that were too wise for his suggested young age and framed by wild strawberry blonde curls that were pulled back carelessly by a green ribbon and fell down his back in a long thick ponytail. The boy couldn't have been older than thirteen years of age and yet his expression was nearly bored when he offered the same bow of Elysian.
"I am Zoisite, Heavenly King of the European Kingdoms."
Lastly was a boy with shorter shaggy blonde waves for hair, he was average of build around fifteen years old but his deep blue eyes spoke of trouble and mischief, barely a head taller than Zoisite. The upward smirk of his lips and the gleam in his eye confirmed that this boy would give him trouble. His features were sharper, angular, giving the appearance of a cunning Kunzite was certain he'd have to keep an eye on. In the same manner, this blonde boy offered an exaggerated bow with his salute and proceeded to grin like an idiot.
"I am Jadeite, Heavenly King of the Far Eastern Kingdoms. Welcome to the Brotherhood."
Kunzite became painfully aware of a few thing in this moment. First, he was the eldest of these men by at least good five years though he was barely a man himself. These were still just boys. Secondly, he was the only one wearing a cape, a sign of superiority and rank. He could feel the assessing eyes of them as there weren't many men his age with silver hair and pale eyes coupled with his tanned complexion beside their paler skin tones. Much against the will of his aching back, Kunzite offered his men the Elysian salute and bowed deeply.
"I am Kunzite, Heavenly King of the Middle East. I am pleased to join you, my brothers." He was already a man of few words but his exhaustion wouldn't allow him to form more words if he wanted to. He was sore, and wanted nothing more than a hot shower, more comfortable clothes, and a real bed. Instead, as he usually did, he offered each boy a lingering stare that commanded attention, effectively wiping the boredom and snarkiness from Zoisite and Jadeite but did little to effect Nephrite who slapped his hand against his shoulder and grinned at him warmly.
"Let's get inside shall we? I think we're all beat from the trip here. I just spent months on a ship so I feel your pain, those carriages aren't nearly big enough. The King and Queen are waiting, let's go do introductions so we can get some shut-eye." Nephrite offered with a weary grin. Kunzite nodded, more than happy to get this part over with. He decided he'd like Nephrite, the perfect warmth to his otherwise icy demeanor. Kunzite never meant to be such an overbearing presence but it was what often landed him in these positions of authority, it was nice to already have someone to balance him out.
The palace was rather dark, dimly lit by candles and put to bed Kunzite assumed by the emptiness of the halls. Everything was polished stone and golden accents with dark wood and jewel toned tapestries and thick rugs. It was grand really, beautifully intricate and elegant like nothing Kunzite had ever seen. The windows held beautiful stained glass designs casting faint colors over the floors by moonlight and the scent of roses seemed to follow them indoors.
It was rather sudden that Kunzite noticed the formation they walked as he lead them through the hallway, an automatic formation with Nephrite at his right directly behind with Zoisite to his left and Jadeite trailed at the flank lazily. He knew nothing of these men so he found himself baffled by how natural it felt. A small mouse of a woman appeared from what was probably a service hallway and she stopped dead in her tracks to gawk at the Heavenly men awkwardly.
"My Lords... if you would please follow me, the King and Queen are expecting you." She seemed to remember in this moment that breathing was important and her flushed face and flustered demeanor had Jadeite snickering and whispering something to Zoisite that made the young King roll his eyes but smirk despite himself. It was no secret that the Shitennou would be beautiful as far as men went, though most of them were still just boys. If Legend turned out to be true, they were wielders of ancient magic, each larger than life and more powerful than average Terran men then they would more than likely entice fear in the people of Earth. Legend stated that they were the product of Angels taking an Earthly mate, another legend Kunzite did not take much stock in. Magic was thought to be dangerous and made you more God-like, hence the name Heavenly Kings of Earth.
Kunzite was too tired to deal with whatever fun Jadeite was poking at this poor woman who had probably served the royal family her whole life, she was probably as tired as they were truth be told. She lead the men to large wooden intricately carved doors that were propped open to a vast room and the Royal Family were perched in their thrones elevated from the rest of the marble floors. The gilded ceilings were accented by gold and white making the room appear lighter against the thick red curtains that were drawn tight across the tall windows. The King and Queen halted their quiet conversation, which had the Queen smiling lovingly at her husband who was chuckling jovially at something private they were discussing. It warmed Kunzite's heart immediately, and he had never seen such beauty in mere Terrans before.
The King was handsome, a bit robust in his later years but his features were strong. The gold crown he wore was modest but a brilliant gold in his salt and pepper colored hair and well trimmed beard, strong jaw and well formed features all brought to life by a very lively pair of warm blue eyes. The Queen was slender and beautiful with her dark features of cascading black curls and soft violet eyes that were pale and brought out by the blue and gold gown she wore. There were gentle signs of aging around her eyes and lips that suggested a lifetime of smiles and laughter, though youth had yet to be lost on her. It all made something twist inside Kunzite's stomach, there was a notion of love he'd never felt before and it made him ache. It certainly wasn't his sore muscles churning his insides, Kunzite couldn't help but think that his discomfort with it would give Zara great amusement.
What twisted his heart the most was the young man, comically asleep on the throne beside his mother. He was only about fifteen, same as Jadeite and there was something magnetic about him, Kunzite was like a moth to the flame. His deep black hair fell messily over his closed eyes, his head being held up only by the palm of his hand. Even in his youth he was utterly beautiful, a strong jawline like his Father and foundation that was telling of the man he had yet to become. He wore armor, dark black and blue decorated by silver and a small sword at his side. The fondness Kunzite felt immediately for the boy placed with his careless manner had Kunzite's lips curling in a small and rare placed smile. The Queen nudged him gently, whispering for him to sit up and greet the newcomers as mothers do.
When the boy's eyes fluttered open sleepily, they were far too blue, bright with sleep upon waking. He leaned his head on his mother's arm who kissed his hair affectionately. The three Royals stood, signifying for the Shitennou to fall to their knees in respect. Kunzite was only hoping they couldn't hear his exhale of breath as he fell when his back revolted against him at the action.
"It is our honor to serve you Lord, the Four Heavenly Kings of Earth who guard your realms offer peace and servitude to your family and lands of Elysium until we are parted by death." Kunzite spoke, memorized it on the painful ride to this destination, his...no- their destinies. It was a comfort to him that he was no longer alone, easing the longing he had for his Palace and the old woman he'd left behind. The royal family bowed, and nodded allowing the Shitennou to stand.
"Kunzite, Nephrite, Jadeite, and Zoisite, you will lead our armies to greatness. You will act as guardians to Endymion, maintain Elysian's peace, and keep eye on your governments. Most importantly, you are family here. If there is anything you require, please don't hesitate to ask. I must introduce my son and heir, Endymion." The King's voice was gruff but kind toward the men. Kunzite noticed the queen had taken her husbands arm and smiled kindly at his side, affection that made it easy for him to love the royal family. It also made him yearn for something that he couldn't place but it was something between the King and Queen.
The Queen ushered the young Prince off to bed with a kiss to his forehead and promise that he could get to know his Guard in due time. Endymion gave a short bow to the four men who were already smitten with the boy so close to their ages.
"Goodnight, I am pleased to finally meet you." His voice was still young, only just passed that awkward stage where it wanted to deepen and the Prince shuffled away comically yawning. Jadite grinned foolishly a tired sparkle in his deep blue eyes, Zoisite smirking and stifling a yawn himself- those are contagious you know. The King smirked, gesturing behind the small group a couple young women stepped forward blushing furiously at the uniformed men. The amusement only reached Nephrite's eyes, and of course Kunzite was a statue.
"These girls will show you to your quarters, again let us know if you need anything." The King spoke, his voice booming in Kunzite's ears and he assumed it was because he was just that tired. "It's been a very eventful day, please take your time in getting settled. I need you rested but we will go over agendas and details soon. The ceremony for Knighthood will take place at the weeks end, otherwise I leave you the next days to get settled and acquainted. Above all, please make yourself at home."
"Thank you Your Highness, we are grateful for your hospitality." Kunzite's voice was nearly a murmur because words were becoming impossible to form and he turned to follow the girls, the young Generals falling close behind him.
"Please Lord Kunzite, this is your home. It's not hospitality, you are not a guest here." The Queen spoke up, her voice was soft but demanding and Kunzite politely turned and bowed with his thanks to her. He practically pushed the girls out of the room to find his bed, becoming desperate for a hot shower and sleep.
The Shitennou were gifted with their own wing of the castle. An upper level of rooms nearby the Prince's chambers which were surprisingly far from the Royal wing but the insanely vast gardens were pressed right up against their wing with a private entrance that opened directly out into them. Endymion had his own private entrance and Kunzite found that each Shitennou had a portion of the gardens all their own. Something he was far too tired to explore as he followed the younger girls through the wide double doors intricately carved with a compass signifying their four regions. Four doors lined the long hallway, two on each side, hinting at massively large suites. There were two more double doors at the end of the hallway, a huge library with office space for Kunzite who had a private entry directly into the large study from his room at the very end of the hall.
Kunzite stepped into his assigned room, it was dark of course but he had noted that each room had a huge fireplace, beautiful, more modern bathrooms and private balconies. His private entrance to the library was closed for the moment, the door adjacent to the main entrance. Large windows lined the outer wall with two balcony entrances. The large four poster bed was on the opposite side of the windows and Kunzite could see a sitting area and fireplace behind that next to the bathroom. There was a small table in front of the windows closer to the main entrance with a wardrobe large and already full of his things just to the left of the main entryway. It was elegant, a room fit for a King and his eye was on that bed.
Kunzite vaguely remembered the girl propositioning him when as she handed him some soft white towels, to which he considered momentarily before he gave her a cold look and snatched the towels from her and practically shut the door in her face. There was maybe a moment he felt sorry for his rudeness but delirium was winning over everything as he threw the lock in place before making sure the other door was locked as well. He sighed deeply, raking a hand down his face and he immediately began to remove the uniform, grateful to be rid of those encumbering boots and thick fabric. He stumbled naked into the pristine bathroom and turned on the hot water until it was near painful and scrubbed at his body until he was satisfied he didn't smell like the sweaty inside of a carriage. Kunzite dried himself off sufficiently, not bothering with his hair or clothes he pulled back the covers on the bed and deliriously fell in. It was blissfully soft and comfortable, and he certainly did not remember falling into a blissfully deep sleep.
The warm Sun was high, streaming in through the cracks of the curtains drawn across the windows and Kunzite momentarily forgot where exactly he was. He sat up slowly, his muscles sore still and he groaned rubbing the sleep from his eyes. The faint smell of coffee was welcoming as he dropped to the floor and stretched, further taking in the details of the dark wood in his room and the oversized chair by the clean fireplace a few feet from his bed. He pulled on a fresh uniform, opting to leave the top three buttons of the thick material open at his chest to prevent it from constricting his airflow. He didn't have a particularly thick neck but it irritated his skin and made him feel suffocated. He hoped the King wouldn't be too upset by it.
Kunzite had just finished fastening his cape to the uniform when he stepped through his private entrance to the library. It lead directly into the small alcove containing his large, pristine desk in the study where Zoisite was perched on top indian style with a book nestled in his lap and a cup of tea rest at his side. The thick rope of his blonde curls lay over his shoulder so his fingers could entwine in them as he read. Vibrant kelly green eyes shifted to Kunzite lazily when he stepped to the sideboard to pour his coffee and seemed to eye him a moment before his eyes shifted back to his book silently. It was hard to believe he was only eleven years old, Kunzite knew he would have to be more gentle with the youngest and build him up instead of intimidating him. Fear was no good motivator, this he knew from harsh experience.
"So do I call you sir? Or how does this work now?" Zoisite's eyes never left the pages of the heavy book in his lap as he spoke and the Commanding General blanched and almost spit out his coffee when he saw the child was reading about Interplanetary Culture. He had heard the myths of his neighboring region, but they were all obsessed with Gods and Goddesses and literally blamed everything on them instead of taking accountability for anything. It became hard to sort fact from fiction. Zoisite made a face at his cup of black coffee when he sat down at his desk behind the young General who was engrossed in a book far above average reading level for someone his age.
"I figure we're brothers, equals. Why be formal in private?" Kunzite leaned back in his chair and Zoisite shifted so he could better face him. He almost had a mind to tell him to get his ass off of his desk but there was something endearing about it and Kunzite was highly intrigued by this young prodigy. Plus it wouldn't hurt to make friends of the other Shitennou, he could be a brute with the rest of his armies, but his men were not just ordinary soldiers. They were all Kings, and all in this together. "Just call me Kunzite." He offered casually, taking a drink from his cup and melting against his chair as warmth spread through his body and the caffeine made him feel more alive instantly. Zoisite only gave him a nod and sat up some to take a sip of tea.
"I can respect that. You can call me Zoi if you want" He added, shifting attention back to his book. "Did you know that Mercurians have invented ways to teleport? Not just to like... other places on their planets but any planet they want? It's some mixture of magic and technology, it has to be because it's biologically impossible to just.. teleport."
"Mercurians... as in from the planet Mercury." Kunzite raised a brow, shamefully uneducated on the lives and truths of other planetary life, even if he knew it was real it was never something that the Middle East concerned itself with. He was too busy making sure his people didn't starve to death.
"Are you serious? No one gave you the rundown on interplanetary relations?" Kunzite furrowed his brow and practically chugged his coffee. He felt like a fool that some eleven year old child could make him feel so small.
"No." He responded plainly, crossing his arms over his chest and leaning back in his chair. Zoisite seemed to come to life now, slamming the book shut and haphazardly tossing it to the chair in front of him while he shuffled to the floor and leaned forward on the desk against his hands.
"Ok Kunz, we have some things to go over before we meet with the King." He took a sip of tea, gloved pinky out, and his brow quirked. It was easy to see the aristocracy in his genes and yet he spoke vibrantly and casually.
"Don't call me Kunz." He frowned at the kid in front of him and he held his gloved hands up in defeat.
"Fine... " Zoisite grabbed a pad and paper, slapping it in front of the Commander and Kunzite almost regretted allowing them to be so casual. "You're going to want to take notes." Kunzite picked up the pen and raised his brow as Zoisite began explaining exactly what Interplanetary Relations were- and to Kunzite they were a full bag of unfair stipulations and laws. One by one the Shitennou filed into the library for coffee and pastry brought up by one of the house staff as Zoisite paced in in front of his desk and began to go over each planet one by one. Kunzite took general notes for now, he would do more research on his own time, but of course Jadeite had to throw his two cents in first.
"Alright Kunzite, here's how it is... that bright ass Moon you saw last night? It's only that bright over Elysian, it's Earth's guardian planet as they call it and there is a whole other civilization up there judging the hell out of us." Jadeite said casually over a mouthful of danish as they all lounged in the library. "Every planet has a civilization and they are like...Gods and Goddesses and shit. Just one of them could wipe out our whole planet, and they have the melons to be scared of us." He swallowed, laughing ironically and shook his head as he dug some dirt from under his thumbnail once the pastry was consumed. "It's bullshit if you ask me. I didn't believe it until Zoi showed me the books." -Clearly Jadeite was no diplomat, Kunzite thought to himself and nearly rolled his eyes at the crude language but just stared at Jadeite with a completely unamused expression. He thought the Eastern Kingdoms were the polite ones...
Zoisite stared at the Eastern General with wide eyes and a sneer on his lips. Jadeite was of course quite satisfied with himself and smugly took a sip of his coffee. They all stared at him like he was a moron, and Kunzite was inclined to be amused if he wasn't more stunned to hear such language from a boy no older than their young King. He decided to dig later about the Eastern cultures- last he checked they were polite and strict but this boy acted like he was raised in a whorehouse. Zoisite cleared his throat and began his more dignified explanations.
"So Mercury, we'll start with the first. This planet is super cold, and the people are the Galaxy geniuses. Any hard technology, medical breakthrough, all comes from them. They are insanely powerful minds... like beyond our scope of intelligence. They have the weakest military of course but if you ask me their brains are more lethal than any weapon forged on Jupiter- but I'll get to that. Their people have mostly blue or black hair and can manipulate water... more specifically ice. I believe it's Hermes that rules that planet but I'm pretty sure Athena runs the show there..Goddess of Wisdom and all.
Venus... is pretty much the most powerful planet next to the Moon. How this works I don't know because Aphrodite is the Goddess of Love, beauty and sex so I'm not sure how she's so powerful but the Venusians are pretty terrifying."
"Yeah, I've read aaaaallll about them." Jadeite interjected, adding yet another sugar cube to his coffee. "They are master seducers and they can smite you down with these crazy beams of light from their fingers. It's said their powers of the heart and ability to manipulate make them the deadliest in the Galaxy but I doubt that. Mostly they're just hot blonde babes that want to do you."
"Valiantly spoken." Zoisite looked anything but amused and Jadeite just smirked at the youngest who had perched himself back on Kunzite's desk. He looked bored with the snarky General and Kunzite just observed them for now where he might have put Jadeite in his place under normal circumstances. "He's not entirely wrong, an idiot yes, but not wrong. Venusians are the most beautiful race of people in the entire Galaxy and are known to have powers of seduction over the mind. Their powers and intuitions of the heart are unmatched and they do have the ability to manipulate light beams from their fingers. I am still working on uncovering the source of that light or power but it basically disintegrates matter to nothing and I'm fairly certain they can shift this power however they want. Keep in mind a lot of the nature around these cultures and their magics are mysteries to us."
"Yeah I just want one of them to seduce me." Jadeite quipped innocently and Nephrite nearly choked on a piece of his muffin.
"Idiot." Zoisite muttered, rolling his eyes. Jadeite promptly pulled a grape from one of the platters and threw it at the younger boy who looked less amused were that possible. Kunzite's gaze shifted between the two. There was no hard tension, no malice behind their childish antics and so he remained uninterferring. "Of course Earth is next, I'm sure you're at least educated on our planet of misfits with no magic so I'll not elaborate further." The kid almost sounded envious. "Mars is ruled under Aries, probably one of the only male rulers in the inner rim of the Galaxy. These people are utterly terrifying. They are firebenders, highly psychic and the fiercest fighters you would ever see. They are master weapons crafters but most of the weaponry is forged and supplied by Jupiter. Martians are basically unstoppable though if you think about it. Psychic on a battlefield is a terrifying prospect if you ask me."
Kunzite nodded, furiously scribbling notes down, more intrigued than ever about these beings. Also more terrified, feeling like he'd been living under a microscope his whole life now. Observed and judged by these all powerful Gods and Goddesses that could end them all if they wanted.
"Jupiter... just about as scary as Mars but where they lack in psychic abilities, they make up with brute strength. They are naturally the powerhouses of the Inner Alliance and master weapons crafters. Oh and I forgot to mention they can wield lightning, don't ask me how but these people can control and manipulate atmospheres to produce storms." Zoi took breath, drinking his cooling tea a moment and he raised his brow at the older man he was currently educating. "There are countries in my lands that claim Zeus, the ruler of Jupiter, is God himself if it tells you anything."
"Only thing I have heard he's God of is sleeping around." Jadeite remarked with a chuckle that was cut short by Kunzite's hard stare. Zoisite rolled his green eyes and continued.
"Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto are all part of the Outer Alliance... we really don't want to mess with them. They are known as the Old Gods, those who have written a lot of the laws placing Earth against the rest of them. They are powerful enough to destroy a planet without a thought but are otherwise rather mysterious." Kunzite's brows lifted and he cleared his throat.
"Explain." He demanded and Zoisite sighed, placing his cup back on the desk gently.
"Uranus and Neptune are the only ones with normal guardians. They're far more powerful than the Inner Alliance but they keep to themselves. They all do really so I don't think we have much to fear of them. Uranus is a war planet like Mars but they are able to shift lands and bend terrain where Neptune can manipulate water. Basically they're walking natural disasters. Pluto and Saturn remain unknown to us to a great degree, though it's said Plutonians have the ability to manipulate time itself, or they guard the Gates of Time said to lie at the very outer reaches of our system, guardians of the Underworld which I presume they speak of Saturn. Saturn is Guardian of Destruction and Rebirth, wielding a weapon said to be more potent than the Silver Crystal the Moon Queen wields and somehow still not as powerful. Legend states that Saturn is born an infant and dies as an old crone in cycles. She is immortal and to be kept dormant. We don't know anything else." Zoisite shivered, green eyes drifting over to Jadeite who had grown serious as well. Nephrite appeared far away, gazing off to the side with a solemn expression.
"I'm guessing Saturn is what we have to fear." Kunzite took a long drink of his coffee, keeping his composure and he folded his hands over his stomach, gazing at Zoisite who looked nervous to say the least.
"Saturn is death and reincarnation... she is all powerful." Kunzite motioned for Zoi to continue when he seemed to stumble on his words. "We've observed that the outer rim keeps her at bay but our knowledge of anything outside the Silver Alliance is limited at best."
"And yet the Moon overpowers all of them how?" Kunzite asked, leaning forward to rest on his elbows against the desks surface with his ever collected frown. He'd been surprised how quiet the other boys remained, maybe because they too hadn't learned all this themselves for one reason or another and for the briefest of moments it dawned on him how short they had lived before being thrust into the center of their planet and this mess of overly powerful beings who gazed down upon them with such disdain.
"Well, the Moon alone holds the power of the Silver Crystal. The equal to Earth's Golden Crystal. Surely you felt its power rolling over these lands when you arrived. It is well hidden and guarded, waiting for the only Terran that can wield it to be ready and according to the legends that could very well be Endymion. The Silver Crystal is a sentient stone and only the lineage of Lunarian royalty can hold it and command its power. It is so powerful that it could undo Saturn's magic if the heart is pure enough and is said to hold the ability to bring back the dead, cleanse evil, and work miracles that we won't ever really know about. It's unknown what our Crystal could do too."
"It sounds like there are a lot of variables." Kunzite muttered, earning a nod from the youngest of them.
"I created an initiative in my lands to learn all we could since they are also responsible for much of the confusion with their foolish tales. As Terrans I also think we should be well informed of their intentions and any movement within their Alliances as they form. It is common knowledge that the Moon Queen seeks to initiate the Silver Millenium, the ultimate peace centered around the Silver Crystal and the rising of four elite soldiers of their own. All you really need to know for now is Terrans are not allowed to interact with them. There are more specific rules, but no interaction is the safest interaction."
"I'm vaguely aware." Kunzite looked unamused, noting how Jadeite had stopped paying much attention in favor of browsing one of the bookshelves, Nephrite looked bored and was fidgeting with a pocket knife and Zoisite just looked a bit worried, glancing down at the book he had picked back up. "Well we don't have to learn every detail today. I think it best if we join our King and get to know our Prince."
"It's only fair you know, that our Master is the one to show us the ropes around here." Nephrite quipped with a wink, pocketing his knife again and hopping to his feet. Jadeite stepped back over to join the group and Kunzite noticed how Zoisite seemed to stick by his side. The boy always seemed nervous, or afraid around the others and he guessed it had something to do with Jadeite teasing him though in observation the Eastern King seemed almost protective of their youngest. Even now as Zoi walked beside Kunzite, Jadeite was close as well, slapping Nephrite's hand away when he went to tug on the long mess of a ponytail Zoisite now let fall loose down his back.
The four stepped into a common room where Endymion was enduring a study session while the Queen sat on a sofa and read nearby. The King was no doubt busy with meetings and when the young Prince lifted his head and met eyes with Kunzite, they seemed to sparkle with excitement. Despite the stone expression of his face, the tall silver haired General's insides were churning. The boy Prince was beautiful, and when he stood quickly, knocking a few books off the table and tripping slightly over his boots. Kunzite dashed forward to catch him before he could fall to the floor. The Queen looked up, her violet eyes warming over at the sight and Kunzite's eyes widened just slightly. It had to be what love was like, the way his heart fluttered and when Endymion gave him a nervous dimpled smile he decided he'd die for this boy in an instant, without hesitation.
"Thank you... Kunzite right? Or should I call you Commander?" The thought of such formality grated Kunzite's nerves though under normal circumstance he would demand to be called by his title. Endymion raked a hand through his inky black hair and regained his composure, trying to play it cool in front of his Queen Mother.
"Please Master, you may call me Kunzite if you'd like." The Commander bowed gently and Endymion laughed, his face taken over by warmth in a carefree way that Kunzite envied.
"I hope you will just call me Endymion. Formalities are reserved for public appearances." Endymion leaned forward, his Mother's face peering over at them with distaste on her mouth. "I know you're supposed to serve me but I hope we can me more like friends." The Prince whispered, shifting his eyes to the Queen's very motherly expression. Nephrite was grinning warmly, Zoi peeking around Kunzite's cape with a slight flushed expression while Jadite smirked, his eyes darting between the Prince and Queen. There was a beat of silence where Kunzite felt lost in stars laced into Endymion's intense midnight stare.
"Well My Prince, the Shitennou and I would very much enjoy a tour of the Palace grounds if you would be so gracious. We should like to get better acquainted with you as well." The Queen laughed lightly when Endymion looked at her with excited eyes.
"Very well my Angel." The Queen spoke softly and the Prince rushed to her side to kiss her cheek. "But don't think you'll get out of studies again this week, I won't have you falling behind and you'll have plenty of sessions with General Zoisite and Commander Kunzite. They have much to teach you as well, but have fun."
"Thank you Mother!" Endymion kissed her cheek again and in a few strides stood by the door leaving a very amused Queen behind them. His youth was infectious and Kunzite lead the other boys to follow the Prince who immediately began talking a million miles an hour, leading them out toward the gardens first, Endymion's very favorite place.
It was the kind of day that leaves you feeling completed. It was the best way Kunzite thought he could describe it when he retired for the night, still tired and sore from the trip but mentally sated and appeased. They spent most of the day in the gardens, talking and getting to know each other and finding that they each felt a sense of completion they never had before. It was then that Kunzite felt it. A roll of something vibrating steadily through the lands, infusing the air with what he could only guess was magic. It was especially strong near the ruins of the original, ancient Elysian palace just at the back of the apple orchard. They teased a little in the moment when Endymion seemed spooked with a notion that his ancestors haunted it, but there was a nervous tension among the Four Kings that they felt something too.
Kunzite learned all about his Prince's green thumb and his love of roses. Kunzite was pleased to learn that just beside his portion of the garden was a vast terrace overlooking the sea with a long staircase that lead down to a private beach. Endymion showed them the stables and how there was a lake nearby under a tree in the center of a field where he had his own firepit and would come to escape. The palace grounds were vast and the Prince had no shortage of things to tell them, including all about the pretty red haired gypsy girl he liked because she could tell fortunes, and Kunzite noted that the young Prince had more knowledge about the Moon than Zoisite seemed to. As well as some very forward thinking ideas that were rather mature for his younger age. Endymion would be a master diplomat, he already had charm in spades and Kunzite knew by the end of the day he'd have to keep himself in check from giving the voracious Prince anything he wanted.
He felt love for the first time ever. A rather sharp, immediate kind of love and kinship with these younger men even when they often had him feeling like a battered nanny. There was no question after a single day that he would end his days fulfilled.