Deja Vu

The night stars twinkling in the sky made a beautiful backdrop to the large glass windows that made up one half of the library's north wall. Serenity had grown accustomed to gazing at them while she waited for Terra to arrive. The last two weeks had proven to be very enlightening on the situation of the planet she loved.

Among the things learned about Earth, the system by which it ruled was studied. Serenity learned that the planet was ruled by one reigning family. The lands were divided in four regions that were monitored by the four high ranking generals that protected the Prince. These generals were dubbed 'the four kings', as the Prince trusted their judgement implicitly and allowed them to set up minor posts of governance among the vast lands each region held. Terra had also educated her on the different landscapes and weather patterns that each region was known for.

Serenity was amazed at the diversity found on earth! It was as if one planet held all the differences she had seen along the other eight. Indeed it was a planet to be coveted and protected! Now she understood why the Moon kingdom watched over the earth with much concern.

To prepare Serenity for earthen court life, Terra had taught her some of the customs that differed on Earth from those of the Moon. While not too many differences existed, there were some subtle differences that could cause misunderstandings. On the moon, it was customary to share the main dish with those on your right. It was a sign of equality to those watching you, and encouraged friendship. It also held importance because sharing a meal was also seen as a sign of trust. To Serenity it was shocking to hear that on earth you did not share from a plate, but ate from your own. Moreover, it was considered rude to eat off another's plate! What a lonely way to eat a meal!

Other differences were more notably in women's fashion. The dresses of earthen women were more ostentatious than those of the moon. While those of the moon preferred more simple loose flowing dresses, those of the earth favored large ball gown dresses heavily adorned with bows and jewels. Showing a fair amount of one's cleavage was normal, and not frowned upon as on the Moon. On the Moon it was ok to see a peek of cleavage, but it was not encouraged. Lunarians were not accustomed to dressing anywhere as revealing as some of the earthen dresses she had seen!

Terra had promised she would bring her some dresses tonight, so that she may try them on and not feel uncomfortable when she eventually wore them to visit earth. She had them made for her, with adjustments to protect her modesty. Serenity was glad for it. Those dresses would fit in perfectly with her secret plans to visit earth and spy on her prince!

Endymion! She remembered her first lesson about him from Terra, two weeks ago. They had started with the royal family, and Terra had brought a picture of the prince. When she laid eyes on it she did her best to act as if it were a mere stranger she was looking at. She listened carefully as Terra recited facts about his royal highness. With just those alone Serenity knew he was worthy of her admiration. The king and queen were also spoken of, but no picture provided as Terra had forgotten them.

From there on out it had been an ongoing influx of information that Serenity was gladly enthusiastically taking in. Of course, those first two weeks were merely an introduction. An in depth study was sure to follow. The only complication in these study sessions, was the fact that Terra was only available in the evenings. As a lady of the court, she had functions to attend by day, and could only be summoned to the moon in the evening.

Serenity had come to care deeply for Terra. She had won her over quickly with her motherly way. Her humor was always welcome from the stressful hours she faced daily. As the heir, Queen Serenity had started delegating responsibilities to the Princess, that while not difficult, were time consuming. Who knew one had to have so many approvals to change the simplest of things! That was why, Terra's lighthearted banter and conversations were always welcome. She almost didn't miss Luna as much! She wondered how her trip to Mau was going, and longed for her to meet Terra as well!

Just as the thought entered her head, the sound of Terra's voice was heard.

"Serenity! Dreaming off again now are we? I know the prince is dreamy, but now is not the time for that! You will have your chance at his birthday party in about four months' time! I am sure you will be invited!"

Serenity's cheeks blushed, she should have known Terra would tease her about him! That woman had a sixth sense!

"His birthday party? How old is he turning?" Questioned Serenity as she lazily flipped some pages in a history book that they would be analyzing tonight. As much as she was dying to know, she did not want to look overly eager.

"Twenty two. Sources say he may be looking for a bride so you better hurry up and study hard, so that we can get you two introduced already. I think you would make a lovely bride for our Prince!" Teased Terra with an ever present smirk on her face.

"We will do no such thing! The princess only needs to concentrate on studying, not wooing your Prince Terra! Is this what you have been up to these last two weeks?"

The sound of the Queens voice was usually one that commanded respect, but it was now trying too hard to sound stern. The attempt was laughable. Especially since the Queen could barely keep a straight face. Not soon after, the sound of three laughing females could be heard ringing about the library. After the giggles came to a stop, Terra spoke.

"My Queen, I mean no ill intent. But if I may say so, I think Serenity would make a great partner for our dear Prince. She is not only beautiful to look at, her mind is one that is not filled with vain things as most women tend to fill it with. Endymion, would fall in love in no time! She has beauty and brains! A powerful combination, if you ask me."

Serenity could only look down while Terra kept trying to convince her mother to push for the match. How close Terra was to the truth! Serenity's face felt warm as she remembered the way Endymion had stared at her in awe that night in the forest. There was no denying that there was a strong attraction between the two. Yet, for all the good that meant, Serenity could not just leave her fate to that. She needed to observe him in another light. The union of Earth and Moon would be beneficial to the Alliance, but if that was determined by her marriage to the Prince, than she needed to make sure it was a marriage of love. A marriage of equals, that was the only way it would work.

Deciding it best to get on with studying, instead of discussing her potential marriage, Serenity spoke up.

"Mother, what are you doing here? Is something the matter?" Asked Serenity, as she truly was interested. The Queen had yet to interrupt her study sessions in the last two weeks. Surely she had something important to say.

"That there is my darling! I have received word from Earth that the Prince will be visiting in one month! Serenity, we will have many things to prepare. Of course the other royals will be called in to meet the Prince. I am informed that his generals will be accompanying him as well. It will be up to us to make a great impression upon them, that they may find no objections and preparations for their ascension into the alliance go smoothly!" stated the Queen with an excitement Serenity had not seen on her mother in a long time.

"Of course mother! What would you like me to do in the meantime?" Questioned Serenity as she stood from her seat and made her way to her mother.

"You will continue your study sessions as you are. By then you should know enough about earth to converse with the Prince without feeling overwhelmed. I will need your assistance with gathering your guardians and informing them of these new happenings. We will need them to be up to date on everything. You know Princess Mina, she is very thorough in her plans and will want to know the details."

"Of course mother, I will start on that tomorrow morning!"

"What of me, your highness, what can I do to help?" Asked Terra as she looked at the Queen with cheery eyes.

"Keep teaching Serenity as you are now. But I would suggest spending less time trying to play matchmaker. By the time she meets the Prince, she will be too nervous to look him in the eye! If things are meant to be, they will come about on their own." Said the Queen with that playful tone Serenity hardly heard. She wondered just how long the two had known each other. They spoke to each other like good friends. Then again she supposed with Terra's personality it was easy to make friends with anyone.

"Well then Serenity, let's do as your mother commands. Can you tell me about the Eastern region and the languages spoken there?"

And just like that, the lesson started. Queen Serenity just watched briefly before returning to her quarters. She had a lot to get started. She couldn't wait till Luna returned, she was her right hand, and she needed to inform her of all the new changes that were going on.

The landscape of the cold tundra of Norfolk, while beautiful in its own way, was not Endymion's favorite. Often he and Kunzite had gotten into discussion about Norfolk, and how difficult it was to populate. Though Kunzite agreed that the north was desolate and therefore not appealing, he always blamed that on not enough promotion of the great north. He argued that given enough promotion by the monarchy, more people would be inclined to visit and stay if they liked.

"I seriously doubt that" mumbled Endymion to himself, as he clutched his jacked tight. The breeze had just picked up and a storm was on the brink. Endymion had just scanned the terrain and knew they had a couple of hours before the storm hit. Thanks to the energy boost the crystal had gotten during his encounter with the Princess, nearly three weeks ago, he was now able to use it without tiring out. With the increase power he had been able to close in on the location of the black monolith. He was sure today would be the day they would find it.

"The men came back. They say there is nothing to the east or west of here. That just leaves the north. Whatever it is, that stone can't possibly do any harm that up north. There isn't anything there!" shouted Kunzite, as the winds made it difficult to hear each other.

"That's fine. We are close, I can feel it." Responded Endymion with certainty. Just as they kept advancing forward, they came across a cave with a warmth that seemed to come from it. Endymion looked at kunzite and with a glance confirmed the general's unspoken question. They had found it. Endymion slowly made his way to the cave with Kunzite close behind. Summoning power to his hand, should the need arise for confrontation, Endymion stepped into the cave. A soft red glowing light surrounded them, and as they made their way further into the cave, they caught site of a large stone. This one was not the one Endymion had seen in his vision. While it gave the same aura and feel and even looked exactly like it, Endymion suddenly remembered it had been outside, not in a cave. Touching the ground Endymion was able to register the energy it was giving out. Or rather, the energy it was stealing! Looking back, he could see that the soldiers were starting to swoon.

"Get out!" Endymion yelled. "The stone is stealing your life-force! Hurry!"

Running, Endymion guided his men to the safety outside the cave.

"We should have known the minute we noticed there wasn't any wild life around!" gasped Kunzite as he was still trying to catch his breath.

"That stone is pure evil, its intent is to harness energy. For what I don't know, but what I do know is that there are more of them. I had another vision when I touched the floor. These stones are scattered around the earth! We must hurry and find them. That will be our priority at this time! We are heading back home! Kunzite, I need you to inform the others. We will meet as soon as possible. Fill them in on these events that they may have suggestions when we meet. Come I must talk with my father about this!"

Quickly the soldiers followed after Endymion, after all, that run in with the stone was enough to scare them for years. The group quickly made their way to camp, where a transporter was set to return them to Norfolk Castle. From there they would make their way to the capital, Aureas, and the Golden Castle.

Endymion could not believe it! How could his father be so stubborn! He had met with him to inform him of the stones and the need to destroy and demolish them. After listening to him, the King had told him to leave the stones to him and Beryl. They would investigate them to see if they had any use for magic or learn how to mimic their properties to harness power. He had disregarded his plans and waved the matter aside as if it was of minor importance! Just as Endymion was about to keep pushing his agenda with his father, Titus changed the subject completely.

"I suppose Gaia has already let you in on the family secret? The Silver Alliance wishes to hold an audience with us. They have specifically requested you and your generals. You are to leave in one month's time. Gaia will fill you in on more. She has always been in contact with that woman, I'm sure they have planned it all out."

Endymion stood in shock. How quickly things were moving! In one month he would see firsthand the wonders of the universe! His imagination was overwhelmed with all the possibilities. Yet, as quickly as the thoughts had started to flow into his head, they were quickly expelled as one thought overpowered all of them. Serenity.

Just as her image came to mind, his father spoke once more.

"You will have much to prepare for your trip to the moon. I will not deter you much longer. Just remember to concentrate on that, leave the monolith situation to me and Beryl. We are aware of what to expect. We can handle the situation. Your assistance is not needed."

The king then quickly stood from his throne and left the room. Endymion just stood in silence. He needed to speak to his mother, but recently she had taken to retiring for bed early to get her "beauty sleep" as she jokingly called it. He would have to wait till morning time. He would arrange for a private breakfast in the gardens. His father wouldn't mind, as he was usually out of the castle before breakfast. For now, he would see Helios. While he knew his father and Beryl were handling the monolith crisis, he wanted Helios to keep an eye on the matter, as he was going to be busy for the present moment.

Serenity could only stare in glee at her reflection. The dresses Terra had brought her fit like a glove! While the necklines were still a little risqué for lunarians, they still covered more than the average terran dress!

Serenity twirled in front of the mirror and enjoyed as the skirts bellowed out to make a large hoop. The dress she was currently wearing was different than the previous ones she had tried on. This dress was composed of two parts. The top was made up of an ivory peasant top that thankfully covered her cleavage (unlike the other dresses) and long sheer sleeves that opened up like bells. A very pretty golden colored corset vest that tied to the front made up the rest of the top. The skirt had a beautiful blue trim that started from the waist of the dress and came parting down the front of the ivory gown. Pretty blue slippers came with the dress.

As Serenity looked at her reflection, she really liked the way the blue trim brought out her eyes. Her hair though, would have to go. Closing her eyes she bid the crystal change her hair and complexion. A warm sensation ran though her body and when she opened her eyes, she was pleased with the image before her. Her silver locks were now a beautiful golden color. Her skin while still fair, had more color running through it, almost as if it had been touched by the sun.

Smiling to herself she knew this would do well. She just had one more adjustment she needed to make. Bringing her hands up to each bun, she quickly undid them and let her hair fall. She needed to change the hairstyle, it was a dead giveaway to who she was. If she wanted to fit in, she would have to change her hair. She couldn't bear to cut it, so she decided to use her crystal to shorten it while the glamour was in place. Grabbing a matching blue ribbon from her vanity, she decided to gather only half her hair up and tie the ribbon to it. Looking at her reflection one more time, she decided she was ready to try a trail run of her plan.

Endymion walked out of the forest chapel feeling a bit at ease. Helios had promised to look after his father and monitor the activity of the monoliths. At the moment, Helios had informed him that while those stones had an evil aura around them, they had not caused much harm yet, and he would notify him if any new changes occurred.

Afterwards he had questioned Helios about the Silver Alliance, and his knowledge on the matter. While not exactly versed well in the workings of the alliance. He was surprised to hear that almost eighteen years ago, the Earth had almost joined, but for reasons unknown the offer was retracted by Queen Serenity.

Helios had then changed the subject and questioned the Prince about his powers. While he had not glowed as he did that night with his mother, his powers had indeed grown. Helios had explained to him on the previous visit, when his powers had changed, that it appeared that the 'limit' he had on his powers was removed. When questioned on how that occurred, Helios replied that a great power must have awakened the true potential of the Golden crystal. That was when he knew that the Princess must have supplied that great power. For who else could have done that? Deciding it best that he make his way home, Endymion decided to go get his horse. Even though he had the power to teleport home, he rather enjoyed the late night ride through the forest. It was relaxing to ride in the darkness, with the moonlight as your guide.

Just as he was turning the corner of the chapel, the wind was knocked out of him by a hooded figure that crashed into him. Quickly getting to his feet, he drew his sword and pointed it at the figure. Bringing the tip of hid sword to the hood he drew it back. He could now determine the assailant was a woman. A frightened one at that. He could tell by the way she was shaking. A mop of golden hair hid her face from view.

"Relax, I will not hurt you."

Endymion tried to give the woman assurance on her safety that she may cooperate with the further questioning he had in mind. The young woman lifted her head up and just looked at him with large blue eyes. Eyes that held his gaze for a second. He took a moment to really look at the woman before him. She was quite pretty. Long golden blond hair framed the face that held those blue eyes. Her face seemed familiar, but different at the same time. A feeling of having met this woman before passed, but was quickly put aside when he remembered what had happened.

"What brings you here at this time of night? And most importantly what on earth made you think that it would be fine to tackle me to the ground?"

The woman stared mutely at him for a second, biting her plump bottom lip, before she managed to speak.

"I was running away from an animal that was chasing me. In my haste to look for sanctuary in this building, I didn't look where I was running." Said the now blushing blond.

He could tell she was telling the truth. Her aura was very clear, clearer than most actually. With the exception of his angel of course. Putting his sword back in its sheath, he decided to help the young woman up. Offering his hand, the young woman shyly took it. She was almost completely up when she shrieked and fell to the floor, bringing him down with her, as she had accidently pulled him to her.

The smell of vanilla greeted his senses, a smell that called to him from somewhere in his memory. Just as he was about to pinpoint that memory, he was made aware of his current position atop the dainty maiden, that was now trying to sit up with no success, as his frame was too heavy to push off. Quickly rolling off the young woman, he lay on his back and covered his eyes with his arm.

"That's the second time you drop me to the ground! Something tells me I should probably avoid you. You're an accident waiting to happen!" Groaned Endymion as he sat up. Turning toward the woman he was alarmed at what he saw. The young blond was crying holding her ankle. Upon closer inspection he could see her ankle was swelling up and fast.

"Here, let me see your ankle. It appears you sprained it when you collided with me. If you would let me, I can help you."

The blond just nodded, while trying to hold in her tears. Gently he took her ankle in his hands and palpated it, checking for any more injuries. After having deduced that no greater harm had come to her ankle, Endymion decided to heal her injury. Summoning his powers, a soft golden light was produced from his hands and placed over the ankle. A warm sensation followed, then the light disappeared.

Laying her ankle back on the ground, Endymion gave a cheery smile to the shocked girl.

"I think your ankle should be much better now. Come let's try standing again."

Quickly getting to his feet, he helped her to her feet for the second time that night. This time the blond managed to stand up on her feet and stay up. Looking at Endymion in wonder, she asked "how did you do that?"

Endymion could only smile, and responded "you still haven't answered my question. I had asked what you were doing here in the forest at this time of night."

Serenity was caught off guard, she had hoped that he had forgotten about her lack of answers. She supposed she would tell him half-truths.

"I was walking down the forest admiring the scenery. Where I come from, we don't have such beautiful forests. It's very monotone." The last part was said in a half whisper as she looked at the lush green trees and foliage that surrounded them.

"That's interesting, I have yet to meet a maiden that would risk her life to see forests in the dead of night. Where are you from that you risk all for a walk with nature?" Questioned the Prince with a devilish smirk on his full lips.

Serenity could only stare at him while she searched her brain for answers from the lessons with Terra.

"I come from Norfolk. The lands there are barren and covered in snow." Serenity hoped he would not continue to pry, she only had a very limited knowledge of the place.

"Of course! I have visited that region, and can attest to your words. What brings you to the capital and most importantly, the royal forest?"

"My father is here on business. He is a merchant and has come to sell."

"You're a guest of the castle then?"

Serenity could only nod in response. She wished the prince would stop his interrogation. She had cornered herself in and would soon be caught. She needed to change the conversation and quick!

"With all due respect, I have answered your questions but you have not answered mine." Said Serenity as she arched a brow at him.

Taken aback by her statement, the Prince decided to play along and answer her questions.

"If it will please you my lady, then ask away" said the Prince with a mock bow.

Serenity could only laugh at his actions. So he had a sense of humor.

"I have explained why I happened to be strolling through the woods at night, but I ask myself what are you doing here at this time of night?"

Endymion could only admire the light in her eyes as she asked him her question. No one in the castle ever questioned him. Something about her made him more than willing to supply her with answers. Even if they were half-truths.

"I'm an apprentice to the old priest that lives in the chapel. I was locking up for the night." The prince was happy he had come in his less formal riding clothes and looked the part.

"I have never seen an altar boy carry around a sword and be ready to strike a woman down." Said Serenity in a mocking but playful tone.

"Well one never knows what dangers await in the forest! One could be suddenly knocked down by wondering women! Which reminds me, what was chasing you down? It might still be near." Endymion quickly looked around as if expecting the animal to jump out of the bushes at any moment.

"To be honest, as soon as I heard the bushes rustling, I ran in a panic." Serenity could only stare at the floor in embarrassment. She couldn't believe what a coward she had been. She had barely arrived when she had hear the noise that sent her running towards the building.

Endymion could not stop the laughter that erupted from his lips at her sudden revelation. So it appeared the lady was not as brave as she seemed.

"I will do you a favor, I am on my way to the castle and can provide you with protection by means of escorting you there."

Serenity smiled at his act of kindness. Even though she did not have plans of seeing the castle, she would take his offer.

"It would be an honor to have your protection! May I have the name of he who protects me from animals that rustle bushes?"

"Of course, if you would kindly give me your name first. That I may know who I am escorting?"

Serenity picked her brain for a name that would suit her earthen persona. The image of a picture Terra had shown her came to her memory. It was of a small white animal that's image was said to be on the moon. What did she say it was called again?

"Usagi"

"That's an unusual name. Most people don't use words from minor languages as names. I guess that's unique. Were your parents from the eastern region before moving to the north?"

That's when Serenity remembered that the animal was a rabbit, and usagi was the name it was called in one of the languages of the eastern region. She just nodded her head in agreement with what he was saying, it was the only way anything would make sense.

"Well if that is the case, then you can call me Mamoru."

When Serenity looked at him with confusion, he decided to explain his choice.

"The name comes from the same eastern language yours comes from. It means protector. I take it you don't speak it then? Many of the minor languages are becoming extinct. I make it a point to learn as many as I can. It's important to know your people." Said Endymion smiling to himself as he remembered his mother's words.

"Well then, Mamoru, why can't I learn your real name?" Questioned Serenity, curious as to why he was hiding his real name from her.

"Oh you will, if you stay at the castle long enough." Holding out his arm he escorted 'Usagi' to his horse, and helped her on. He then sat behind her and commanded the horse to move forward.

As soon as the horse starting trotting along a path, Serenity remembered that not all her questions had been answered.

"Mamoru, how did you heal my ankle? I remember a warm golden light and then the pain was gone." Serenity just kept her eyes on the path. She could feel him tense up just the slightest bit at her question.

"You see, as the priest's apprentice, I have learned how to heal using a power that runs through the earth. Only few people have access to this. I happen to be one of them." Actually I'm the only one in a long time, thought Endymion to himself. He hoped her questions would stop, the thought of fabricating more lies did not bode well with him. It would only complicate things more. His thoughts came back to the conversation as Usagi spoke again.

"Well I have yet to thank you for it." Turning her torso around, she placed her hand on his hand that held the reigns and said "Thank you" while looking him straight in the eyes.

Endymion forgot to breathe for a second. His memory screamed at him to recall who this maiden was. Had he met her at Norfolk Castle while visiting? Or was it just that she had a resemblance to someone he had met? Looking down at his hand he noticed she was still holding on to it. She must have noticed too, for she retracted it and turned back around swiftly.

The rest of the ride went in silence, to the relief of both of them.

Serenity was glad she rode in front. She would die of embarrassment if the Prince managed to see how red her face was. She couldn't help it! Especially when every now and then she would get tossed back against his chest when the horse made a quick movement. The feel of his muscular chest against her back was seriously unravelling her nerves. She was as stiff as a board, trying to avoid any unnecessary touching.

Just as they were approaching what looked like the end of the forest, the horse came to an abrupt halt that would have had the princess tumbling off the horse had the prince not gathered her in his arms. The sheer feeling of being in his arms was enough to almost make Serenity faint from happiness. If this was heaven she would do anything to earn admittance! Quickly he let go and urged the horse forward. Just as they had made it out of the forest, Serenity caught a view of the castle in all its glory. A gasp escaped her mouth as she took in the beauty of the gold structure.

"It gets me every time as well Usagi, it's a beautiful building. The gardens are even lovelier!" Endymion beamed with pride as he looked upon its tall towers, beautiful balconies and large floor to ceiling windows.

"I would love to see the gardens! I do love nature! Flowers are my favorite!" Dreamily said Serenity as she turned back to Endymion.

"Well if you like, I can show you the gardens tomorrow. I have special privileges that allow me entrance to the royal gardens, I can take you to see the gardens if you like."

"Really? That would be wonderful!" exclaimed 'Usagi' to 'Mamoru'.

Endymion did not understand why he had offered himself so readily, it just felt like a natural thing to do. This girl made him feel at ease, and comfortable. As long as he was Mamoru, it was like he could let his guard down and be himself, without all the formality that came with a title. A couple of more days of this pretense wouldn't hurt. She would probably go back in that time, as most merchants stayed in the capital for only a couple of days. Reaching their destination, Endymion quickly hoped of the horse and gently helped Usagi down.

Turning towards him, Serenity quickly curtsied and said "Thank you so much for everything you have done for me this night. I will never forget your kindness. I look forward to tomorrow! Shall we meet here? If so, at what time would you like?"

"I am very busy during the day and early evening. How about after dinner say around 8pm?"

"That sounds perfect. I will see you then!"

With that, Serenity walked towards the courtyard of the castle, not knowing where she was going she looked for the first corner, and quickly got out of view. As soon as she saw that no one was around, she closed her eyes, held her hand to her heart and vanished.

Endymion found it odd that Usagi had taken a turn towards the castle kitchens instead of the guest quarters. Checking to see if she was alright, he turned to where he had seen her last, only to be met with nothing but the scent of vanilla. Deciding it best not to worry, as the castle grounds were the safest on earth. He went to his quarters. He needed rest. Tomorrow would be a long day filled with meetings. He looked forward to tomorrow evening and the distractions it would provide. The sound of his boots crunching on gravel was the only sound in the dead of night.

Beryl was livid! How had the wench managed to trick her Prince again for the second time! She might have changed her hair and used glamour to cover up her features. But those cold blue eyes were the same! Couldn't he see through her disguise?

It appeared the little witch had some strong powers. Beryl had gotten very good at spying on the Prince, so good that he hadn't caught on yet. She had recently made an invisibility potion that she was testing out and had decided to use it while she followed him. She had been standing outside the chapel walking around, when a sudden light appeared from the sky. Hiding behind a bush she watched as that creature appeared. Her appearance had been altered but it was her. It had to be! Who else came from the heavens?

Beryl watched as that white witch took in her surroundings, gazing at the forest in awe. If it hadn't been for her thought to step out from behind the bushes and ask her who she was, the woman wouldn't have pulled her hood around her head and took off in a run that ended with her and the Prince on the ground. Mutely, Beryl watched as again the prince fell for her. While not as entranced as the last time, he still gave her undivided attention. Her blood boiled as she saw that creature work her magic on him and even stage a fall again! My, she was clever!

After listening in on their conversation, Beryl just decided to watch and see what would unfold. Once the pair made to leave the forest, she followed closely behind. When they arrived at the castle, Beryl made to hide in the courtyards. It was from her hiding spot, that she saw as that woman disappeared again.

Now in her bedroom, she walked around like a caged animal. The rage and jealousy eating away at her. What did that woman have that she didn't? No matter in what form she presented herself she managed to capture her Prince's interest! How she wished she could be here to protect the Prince! Unfortunately, she and Titus had to go on an expedition to study the monoliths that the Prince was so concerned about. She would go for now, and let that white witch have him. But as soon as she returned, she would do everything in her power to stop her from getting near him! Even if that meant selling herself to the devil! No one would harm her Prince!

Authors note:

Hello! I know it's been a while. I've had a couple of busy work days that have left me in a comatose state afterwards! But luckily I have recovered enough to give you guys this. Hope you enjoy! I am determined to see this story thru to the end, rain or shine! Thank you for your reviews! They are the fuel that keeps me going! Also to those 130 or so of you who have consistently been reading this story, thank you! The site lets me know the average reads this story is getting, and I'm glad you have kept with me. I would like to hear your voices though…..

Anyways, have a wonderful day wherever you are, and I'll see you again sometime next week! More Sere/Endy, Usa/Mamo moments to come! Hope it's not confusing you!

Love,

Tsukilight J