Darkness Descends
"So let me get this straight. Your mother and the Alliance have decided to hold an audience with the Earthen Prince and his Generals?"
An arched eyebrow raised on the beautiful Venusian Princess. Even on the monitor, her beauty was not lost. Serenity simply nodded and then added "Mother expects you to cooperate with Artemis and work out security plans".
"Great! Just when I thought I was going to get to dance with some of those cute lunarian soldiers, it turns out I'm going to be on duty!" Her expression on the monitor was priceless. Bangs blown askew by her frustrated huff of breath.
"Well if you get working on it since now, maybe you can work and play?" offered Serenity.
"With Artemis in charge I hardly doubt that! But then again, he is a married man now, maybe marriage has softened him up a bit! I'll see what I can work out with him."
"Well then I leave it up to you to contact the others and fill them in on the news. I have to go now. I have meetings all afternoon until Terra shows up! I feel like I've aged a hundred years from all the stress these preparations are causing all over the castle!" Serenity vented out her frustrations. She had been awoken from her sleep an hour earlier by her handmaiden at her mother's request. Typically she would not have complained, but last night's adventure had left her with a loss of sleep that she was starting to feel, and it was only noon! Soon she would have a rushed lunch, before she headed out to another meeting.
"Well you know what I say, nothing like a handsome face to distract you at the end of the day! There are plenty of those at your palace. Find one to relax with, you'll thank me later! Venus out!"
With that the monitor turned off and Serenity could only smile in return.
"You are right Mina, handsome faces do take the edge off a hard day of work." Whispered Serenity as an idea formed in her head.
Walking up to the monitor she called forth her favorite image. She could use a small distraction before lunch. That would probably get her through the day until later that evening. A blush started to form on her cheeks as she remembered her plans for that evening, looking up at her prince, she sighed.
"Until later, Mamoru."
The library was silent as Serenity walked towards the table Terra and she usually sat at. Just as she turned the bookshelf that lead to their table, she came to a complete stop at the picture that lay before her. Terra was sound asleep on the table. Her head nestled on her arm, as her glorious ebony locks spilled onto the table. Even asleep, she had a smile on her face. She wondered what she was dreaming about. Deciding it best to cancel for the evening, she was turning when she heard some mumbling coming from Terra.
"See I told you it would happen Endymion! Mother knows best!"
Surprised at the words she heard, Serenity made her way to the table to hear more, but stopped when she saw Terra yawn and open her eyes.
"Serenity! I thought you weren't coming! I guess I fell asleep while I was waiting. I'm sorry. I have been so busy with my duties at court, that I sneak a nap every opportunity I can get! Are you still wanting a lesson?"
Serenity nodded, still shocked at what she heard to speak.
"Well yesterday we discussed the eastern region. Which region would you like to discuss today?"
Deciding it best, not to cause alarm with her suspicions, she regained her focus and answered.
"The northern region Terra, I hear it's very desolate, I would like to know more about their society." The questions had reminded Serenity that she would need to know this region to keep up her guise. Even if it was only for a little more. She would questions her mother about Terra and her background next time she met with her. Something told her there was more to Terra than she was letting on.
The smell of roses was strong this evening. Taking a long deep breath, Endymion let the smell calm him down. The Castle gardens had always been a welcome distraction to the hectic days spent running the planet. As a child he used to come and tend to them with his mother. They were her prized possession. She took great pride in tending to them personally. He smiled to himself as he thought how he had also inherited his love for the gardens from his mother.
Breakfast with her had gone well. His mother had listened patiently as he informed her of his father's latest decision to exclude him from his plans again. She reminded him that if anything should go wrong, he and his crystal would be able to correct the mishap. That maybe it was a blessing in disguise, as he would now be busy preparing himself with his presentation to the Alliance. The rest of breakfast had gone smoothly, with idle chit chat afterwards.
Finding a bench near the semicircular display of roses, he decided to lay down and contemplate the night sky that was littered with stars. He had arrived at the gardens an hour earlier than expected and was now reflecting on the day's events.
Kunzite had been reached via the communications chamber earlier in the day. The report had been given to him about his father's decision to visit Norfolk and study the monolith's with Beryl's assistance. Measures were taken to have a spy service set up to monitor them just in case things got out of hand. Then he informed him about the upcoming trip he and the rest of the generals were to take in less than a month. The details of said trip were to be disclosed upon arrival to the Golden Castle of Aureas. Kunzite had not taken too well with the secrecy surrounding the trip, but he had quietly given his consent and accepted the invite. He was then tasked to inform the remaining generals.
Endymion smiled as he remembered the look on Kunzite's face as he gave him his last request. The look of confusion and curiosity, had been due to the Prince's sudden request for him to investigate a family that lived within his region. The only clue being that it was a merchant family that had migrated from the eastern region. The daughter having been named in one of the minor languages spoken there. Usagi had been the name. The general had looked at him in surprise when the request was made, but did not question his prince. Merely uttered a "as you wish" and continued listening for other orders.
The rest of the day had been filled with scheduled meetings. The last of which was a meeting with the castle guards instructing them to keep watch over the gardens from a distance and not interrupt him, as he would be having a quest.
The exhaustion from the day's events must have gotten to the prince, as he fell into a deep sleep before he even knew it.
Serenity was relieved that no had caught her intrusion into the outer courtyard of the castle. She had been learning to perfect her teleportation powers and was now able to do so by recalling a vision of the place she wanted to go to and willing the crystal to take her there. She was surprised with the accuracy she had managed to do so. Gathering her skirts she took slow steps on the gravel so as not to make too much noise. She hated these dresses so much, as they limited her movement, but she supposed she had no choice. "If I become queen of this place, I will definitely have a say in women's fashion!" she muttered under her breath as she tried her hardest to make as little noise as possible. Just when she thought she was going to get away, a hand landed on her shoulder and roughly turned her around.
"Excuse me, what are you doing here in this part of the castle? I don't believe you have clearance to be here!" all but screamed the guard in her face.
Panicking Serenity figured she might as well tell as much of the truth as possible.
"I was meeting someone in the gardens. I just happened to get lost on my way there. If you would be so kind as to direct me there, I will be out of your way." Serenity's sweet voice seemed to calm the irritated man down.
"Well, the gardens are in this area, but I'm afraid I can't let you in, they are off limits to the general public, only members of the court and royal family can access those."
Serenity didn't know what to do! She couldn't very well say she was meeting Endymion, he had not revealed himself to her in that name. Giving the guard his fake name probably wouldn't accomplish much. How was she to meet her prince now? Just as she was about to turn around and leave, another guard made his way over to them.
"Are you here to see the gardens miss?" said the young guard as he quickly looked her over.
Serenity nodded rapidly, hopeful that this guard would be kinder than his companion.
"You fit the description, he told me to be on the lookout for you. Seems like my friend got to you before I could. Sorry miss, he was not informed of the arrangements this evening. I will lead the way. Come with me."
While relieved that her obstacle was removed, a wave of anxiety washed over Serenity as she realized she would be in close proximity to her prince. Giving herself a pep talk, she willed herself to stay calm.
Once outside the garden gates, the guard excused himself. Serenity then walked down the stone path marveling at all the sights before her. Flowers in different shapes and sizes, colors and patterns, filled her vision. Stopping many times along the way to stare at the different displays, she forgot all about the Prince. More so, when a delicate smell filled her senses. It was a smell that seemed vaguely familiar. Following the smell lead her to the biggest surprise that night. A beautiful arrangement of deep red roses in a semicircular display was before her. The area was like a small rest stop along the path that lead through the gardens. Benches lay towards the side of the display so that the visitors could rest and relish in the beauty around them. A large fountain in the shape of a woman stood in the middle. She was dressed in royal regalia, a crown upon her head. The woman was beautiful, it didn't take long to determine that it was probably a queen of Earth, a young one at that, who was honored there. Making her way past the statue, she came up close to the roses. She had never in her mind thought it possible, that her favorite flower, the one she thought extinct was actually of earth. Stretching her arm out, she touched the flower on its petal and gasped at its softness. Deciding to pull it toward her so that she could smell its scent, she was caught off guard by the thorns laying just beneath and came to prick herself. Jumping back she was shocked to find herself bumping into someone who caught her in their arms before stumbling and serving as her cushion as she found herself on the floor.
"We have got to seriously stop meeting like this!"
The familiar voice made Serenity's heart skip a beat, followed by an erratic heart rhythm when she realized the position she was in. She had never in her life been so embarrassed! Here lay Princess Serenity of the Silver Alliance sitting on the Earth Prince's lap! She didn't have to see herself to know that she was as red as the roses behind her. She could feel the heat all over her body! It was then that she heard the prince clearing his throat and realized she had yet to move or reply.
Moving with the speed of a cat, Serenity quickly moved off the prince and stood up. Looking down at him, her breath caught in her throat at how stunningly handsome he looked. His tunic had been pulled lower during the fall and now exposed a very chiseled chest. His hair that was tousled by the impact, was framing his face in a way that made him look very boyish. Not to mention the look he was giving her, as if he knew what she was thinking. Gathering her wits about herself she managed to form a reply.
"If you wouldn't have sneaked up on me, this mess could have been avoided. As I see it, it is you who owes me an apology!" turning her nose up, she gave him her back. She needed a moment to compose herself, but it was hard when she could feel his eyes burning into her back. Maybe she had gone too far with her words.
"Well then, sorry for trying to warn you about the roses! I would have thought you to know better than to try and touch them! Everyone knows you have to be careful with the thorns!" Replied the Prince in an exasperated tone. The prince had already stood to his feet and was irritated that his good intentions had been flung in his face! Just moments before, he could have sworn the encounter was going to play out differently.
Endymion had been woken from his nap by the sound of footsteps on the cobblestones. His years of military training had left him with the ability to pick up on sounds as he slept. Quickly standing to his feet, he had hid behind a tree to wait and see who the intruder was. He stood silent as he saw her arrive and was captivated by the way she was engrossed in her surroundings. The way she gazed at everything reminded him of a child seeing something for the first time. Not wanting to make his presence known just yet, he simply watched. Usagi reminded him of her namesake, her cautious nature as she surveyed her surroundings. The way her blue eyes would grow big and round as she spotted something new. Even the way her nose would scrunch up as she smelled the aroma of the garden. He really hadn't meant to spook her. He suddenly felt bad for his earlier remark. Walking up to her, he gently tapped her shoulder to get her attention. She wouldn't turn, and that's when he noticed the tears that were slowly falling on her shoulders.
"I'm sorry Usagi. I didn't mean to scream at you like that. I was just irritated, all I was trying to do was protect you and you misread my intentions. I'm not one to lose my temper like that, it's just, I'm not used to having conversations with women that's all. If you don't want my company, you can finish exploring the gardens by yourself. I'll let the guards know to leave you alone." Defeated the Prince was just about to leave, when he felt her hand on his arm.
"I'm sorry too. I was just so embarrassed that I wanted to blame someone for my folly. I have never really seen roses up close. They don't grow up north (or the moon, she thought to herself). I was just so happy to see one, you see, they are my favorite flower. Mother used to hang them on my cradle as a child, and back home I have a lovely fountain in the shape of rose bushes that I love to sit by. It's the closest thing I have to a real one. So you see, I was so excited to see them, that I forgot about the thorns."
Turning and looking at her he was really surprised at how beautiful the blond before him was. Sure he had passed her off as a pretty face at their last meeting. But looking at her, really looking at her, she had such a gentle aura about her. Her face still reminded him of someone that his memory just couldn't pinpoint, but for now he wouldn't worry about that. Kunzite was sure to find out more about her family for him. For now he would just enjoy her company, and if all went well, she would make a good friend to call on when he visited Norfolk.
Taking her hand and placing it on his forearm, he said "If you would allow me the pleasure, I would love to show you this garden. I'm actually a caretaker here as well." He wasn't lying, it was one of his hobbies he participated in at times.
"Of course! I am not familiar with many of the flowers here. As you know, the north isn't the best breeding grounds for much of anything. I would love to know more about these flowers. But most importantly, who is that in the statue?" They both turned to look at it. One with curiosity and one with admiration.
"That there is a statue of Queen Gaia, the primary caretaker of this garden. This is said to be her favorite part of the gardens, which is why she placed benches, so that those that come may sit and enjoy the views. The statue was commissioned by the king upon the birth of the Prince, as he was so happy with his wife, he wanted to honor her with this statue."
Serenity could see the love, Endymion had for his mother reflected in his eyes. As she gazed upon the statue, she could make out the resemblance, and somehow, it reminded her of someone else as well. Taking one last glance, the prince led her down the path to the other parts of the garden. The evening went in absolute peace, with Serenity asking questions and Endymion answering them enthusiastically. When they reached the end of the gardens, which was essentially by the start of the gardens, Serenity and Endymion just stood their gazing at the stars for a moment.
"Have you ever wondered if there is life outside of this planet Usagi?" The Prince decided he wanted to know what an average citizen thought about that idea.
"All the time, it would be wonderful if that were the case! All the new things to learn! How exiting!" Serenity didn't have to act at all, that was how she had felt about the idea before knowing the truth.
"Exactly my sentiments. I wonder how close we are to finding that out. Do not let it frighten you if it happens to be true." Endymion couldn't help but give her a clue as to what the whole world would soon be informed of. No doubt after the induction into the alliance, arrangements would be made to spread the news in a manner which would not alarm the people.
"Mamoru, I must give you my infinite thanks! You have made my visit to the capitol very memorable! It is a shame I never met the prince, but you are just as good! I will be leaving tomorrow, so I fear this is a farewell." Giving her most graceful curtsy, she made to leave when the prince stopped her by placing his hand on her arm.
"Before you go, I must tell you who I am. I owe you that much." Said Endymion with a note of urgency in his voice.
"Mamoru, it is fine with me if we leave our friendship as is. I think we both have secrets that are better left this way for now." Smiling at him with a look that said she knew more than he was letting on, she kept walking towards the inner courtyard. Leaving the Prince looking after her in confusion.
The bitter cold of the northern region, was beautiful to Beryl. Something about the solitude in her surroundings brought peace to her troubled mind. Their expedition had found the monolith within the cave, exactly as the prince had described. Having used a magical shield, she had been able to get near the monolith, without getting her life force sucked out of her. Upon closer inspection she could see that this cave was actually an entrance to a larger building. Behind the monolith were two large doors, which were made of heavy stone. She gathered that no one had made it this far before, as most would have been dead by then. Gathering up power in her hand she blasted the door, but only managed to have it open enough to let her pass. Squeezing past the door, she was greeted by a beautiful sight. Before her was an elegant passageway made of black marble. The remnants of a castle were before her. Walking down the passageway, she came across what could be described as a foyer, with a beautiful grand staircase leading up. Cautiously walking up the stairs, her conscious told her she should leave and gather reinforcements and be better prepared to study this structure. Yet, something about this place was calling to her, as if it wanted to comfort her. Getting to the top of the staircase, an open door awaited her, having gone thru it she realized she was in a sort of throne room. As she made her way towards a large throne that sat high up a platform, she felt a presence behind her. Turning rapidly she came face to face with nothing but air. When she turned back towards the throne, that's when she saw it. A shadow hiding behind the throne. Suddenly a cold chill filled the room, and a voice spoke.
"You have finally made it, my child. I have been waiting for you. I have sensed great power in you for quite some time." Said the voice with a hint of enthusiasm.
"Who are you?" Questioned Beryl, more in fear than curiosity.
"That is a tricky question you see. I am known by many names and in many forms. Most would consider me the source of darkness. For indeed, this is my dark kingdom you have come across. I have been to many places, but none holds as much promise as this place, Earth."
"Well I am sorry to inform you that my alliance is with King Titus and his successor Prince Endymion!" Shouted Beryl as she started to gather up power in her arms to escape.
"Oh, do not fret child! I will not harm you. In time you will come willingly to me. Now regarding that Prince you speak of, is this the one?"
Out of thin air, an image formed before her eyes, of the prince walking around the royal gardens with that white witch! The rage that filled her heart, blinded her for a second before she remembered her current predicament.
"You know, he can be yours. Everything actually, if you let me help." Offered the voice with a tone of pity.
"Do not give me your fake pity! I have always known he would not be mine! I will not have him by whatever means you intend. I only wish to protect him, from the likes of anyone, be it you or her!"
"Well dear, just listen to me. That woman he is with, is from the moon. They are a long lived race that intends to trick the earth to join its alliance, so that they may get their hands on its plentiful resources. If you do nothing, that woman will have him and this earth. He will be but a prisoner to her every wish. Just look at the way he is doting on her."
Beryl could not counter her argument. For indeed, the image before her had the prince smiling and listening intently to that woman. Beryl did not know what to do. Before her she had two evils. Which one was the lesser would have to be her decision. Before she could respond, the voice spoke again.
"I can tell your heart is troubled. You see, I help those that have been jilted by the harshness of life. Prior to you I helped a poor woman from the moon. The Moon Queen, Serenity, was too strong for her. I only wish to help you and this Earth from the chaos that is sure to follow if they join the Alliance. I will give you time to think. All you need is say my name and I will bring you here. Just know that if you call me, it is because you have decided."
With those words, everything went black, and Beryl could not fight the sleep that suddenly overcame her. All she could hear was a bone chilling cackle in the background, and the name Metallia imprinted in her mind.
Serenity stood in front of the mirror. After weeks of preparations, the day was before them. The Earth Prince would be showing up to the moon palace. She had missed him terribly, but had made up her mind based of her last visit, that if marriage was the only way into the Alliance, she would gladly agree. Nervously smoothing out the front of her dress, she looked at her reflection. She looked every bit the Princess she had become. Strong, Intelligent, and Graceful.
"Serenity, the transporters are ready to make contact with Earth. They should be here in about thirty minutes. You are quiet calm, considering what this meeting might lead to." Said Luna as she softly rubbed her shoulder.
"Well I have had time to make peace with what might occur at tonight's meeting. Terra has instructed me well enough, that I feel confident engaging with our visitors. It's a pity she is not here tonight, considering how much she has been pushing for a match between me and the Earth Prince. I guess I'll have to fill her in on the details when I see her next." Chuckled Serenity as she thought of her friend.
In six weeks' time, she and Terra had grown very close. Enough so, that Luna had developed a hint of jealousy towards her. Of course Serenity had quickly sensed it and had laid Luna's fear to rest, reminding her that it was she who had watched her grow and would continue to be her most trusted friend.
Suddenly the door was thrown open and in walked her most trusted guardians.
"Serenity, its time! The Prince will be here shortly. Please come this way. Artemis is watching me like a hawk, that man is insufferable. There will be hell to pay if I don't get you there on ti..."
The words died Mina's lips as she noticed Luna standing beside the princess. Blanching noticeably, she looked down, not knowing what to say to the general's wife. The sound of laughter filled the room, as Luna doubled over holding her stomach as she continued to laugh.
"Princess Mina, it is fine, I know how difficult my husband can be when it comes to security issues! It was not long ago I echoed sentiments similar to yours!" wiping at her eyes Luna looked at Serenity, urging her to follow Mina with her eyes.
The seven of them made their way down the corridor to the teleportation room. Standing in front of the platform by her mother Serenity looked with anticipation as the room filled with a light fog and the bodies of five men started to materialize before them.
"Are you sure about what you are doing Endymion? I have followed you in your decisions without questioning you before, but this time, I'm not too sure you have thought this thru!"
The five men had retired to their quarters and where discussing the arrangement for the Earth's entrance into the Silver Alliance. Kunzite, was the most vocal about the Prince's decision to marry the Lunarian Princess, as he felt that the sudden arrangement would throw the earth into a panic.
"Kunzite, your hesitance is understandable. But I must assure you that I have already thought this thru. My life has been connected to hers since birth, must I remind you that our betrothal had been arranged before the Queen retracted the offer. This is a second chance at benefiting the earth, moving forward."
"Well, if I were offered a beautiful woman like Serenity, I wouldn't think twice about it! Though I would settle for that raven haired one. Too bad her attitude ruined the mood. I could have sworn she wanted to rip my head off when I smiled at her!"
"Well I was about to rip your head off too, Jadeite! We are here on a diplomatic mission, which could have been ruined by your constant gawking every time a woman crossed your vision!" scolded Nephrite.
Indeed Jadeite had not been the best example of discretions upon arrival to the moon palace. While the other three generals had kept their eyes on the Queen, as the introductions had been made, Jadeite was observing the beautiful women before him. Endymion had caught him from the corner of his eye and had wanted to smack him upside the head for his display, but held back, considering this was a first impression that he didn't want to ruin.
The walk to the audience chamber had been quiet, as the generals and prince, spent most of the walk observing their surroundings. The Palace, while devoid of color, was truly a beautiful structure. It was the very essence of elegance and delicacy all in one. Truly a Palace, made for a great woman. Here and there beautiful tapestry's that depicted the planets that made up the alliance hung from the hallways. Once they had gathered at the entrance to the chamber. The doors where swung open, revealing a circular room with eight thrones surrounding the principle throne, where the Queen now sat. Her daughter, Serenity just stood silently beside the throne. He just stood looking at her, admiring the woman before him. She had shyly returned the secret smile he had given her when they had first seen each other, but afterwards had not made a move towards him at all. He gathered that she wanted to disguise the fact that they had already met, on that magical night. Now she stood before him with a slight blush on her cheeks. Looking at her closely, he couldn't help but think how she reminded him of Usagi. Of course a more ethereal version of her, one that seemed fairylike.
Switching his attention to the others in the room, he stood tall and as gallantly as ever introduced himself and his generals to the reigning monarchs of the Alliance. He then proceeded to give his speech and display for all to see, his control over the Golden crystal. The room was filled with gasps as they saw the power the young Prince controlled. Quickly they had agreed, that with both the Silver and Golden crystal, the Alliance would be as strong as ever. The offer to join was made, as well as an offer to marry the princess. Both were accepted by the Prince. Now here they were, in a private suite in the moon palace, pending a ball in their honor and an announcement that would change the universe so to speak.
Endymion could only try and calm his generals, he knew that the decision would cause anxiety among the peoples, but handled with care, the worst could be avoided. Turning towards them, Endymion cleared his throat to gather their attention.
"I know this decision seems rushed, but after talking with my mother and researching the Alliance, I honestly believe that Earth can only benefit from this. They are a people who only wish for peace and prosperity among them. Is that not what you wish for as well? Our planet has managed to unite, but only you know how many small battles are constantly fought against uprisings in order to manage that. I do not feel they are asking for much in return. If anything, they are the one's sacrificing. Now come, let us rest, tomorrow will be filled with much to see."
The Prince then left for his chambers that were connected with the living area they were in.
"I for one look forward to looking at their technology. I hear it's a special drive made in Mercury!" Zoisite said enthusiastically as he looked at the other generals. The response he received was three pillows thrown in his face.
"I take it I'm the only one looking forward to anything then?"
"I'm sure we have much to learn, I'm just still cautious about everything. I'll give them an honest evaluation tomorrow. It's just hard to take all this information in at once." Said Kunzite, obviously tired with the day's events. The other three, just simply nodded, and headed for their rooms as well. Tomorrow would be a long day.
Endymion just couldn't sleep. It wasn't the mattress, it was actually pretty comfortable. Maybe it was the silk sheets? He had long since changed them in his quarters for cotton, not having liked the feel of them. He would have to put up with it while he stayed at the moon palace. Getting up he walked to the balcony and looked at the awe inspiring view. The Earth was before him, in all its beauty. He never imagined how blue his planet was, it was like a sapphire marble with wisps of white clouds encircling it. A sense of pride welled up in his chest as he contemplated his home. Deciding it best to take a walk out in the gardens of the inner courtyard, he gathered his robe and put it on.
It was interesting to see nothing but white flowers surrounding him. He was reminded of the white fields of snow that filled the Norfolk region. He wondered if Usagi had made it there safely. She should have left the capitol early in the morning, as most merchants tended to do. He wondered if she would be mad when she realized who he was. Eventually, on her next visit she would meet him, and his new wife. The thought brought a bittersweet feeling to him. He had really enjoyed Usagi's company, but the princess was truly always meant for him.
Just as he thought of her, she appeared in his line of vision. Sitting on a bench, in front of a fountain shaped like a rose bush. How odd, the image reminded him of what Usagi had mentioned about her home. Looking at her, she truly looked magical. Her silver hair swaying with the slight breeze, and appearing to have a soft glow to it. Her alabaster skin, almost the color of snow, was graced with a soft rosy hue on her cheeks, most likely from the chill in the breeze. Her white satin dress that just clung to her, hugging her curves only to flow loosely from them at other points. She reminded him of a goddess the way she looked. He had seen many statues depicting them, but before him truly was one. He let out a breath he didn't know he was holding, and at exactly that moment, Serenity turned and it appeared her blush intensified, as she realized she been stared at.
"I'm sorry I didn't mean to intrude. I just couldn't sleep and thought a walk might tire me out." Said Endymion with a slight chuckle.
"Its fine, I find myself in the same situation. Want to sit here with me?" Offered the Princess as she signaled to the area beside her.
Slowly Endymion made his way over, and carefully sat beside her. The scent that greeted him, brought back a memory.
"Vanilla" Endymion stated his observation to himself.
"Yes, I use it in everything, the scent is soothing to me."
Silence followed, only the sound of the fountain was heard.
"I hope you don't feel angered by the decision the Alliance took. I wasn't aware if you were in agreement with it. I hope you are." Endymion had not stopped to think of how the Princess felt about the whole arrangement until much after it was decided.
"I was actually aware that I would be offered to you. It seems that our Alliance has made trades of this sort before. Do not worry, I have made peace with that fact long ago. Besides, I have come to know much about you and your planet from a tutor named Terra that visits me. She is a lady from court. Surely you know of her?"
Endymion scrunched his brow as he tried to recall that name. He knew most everyone from court. That name didn't ring a bell.
"To tell you the truth, I am not aware of who she is, but I'll ask my mother about her, I'm sure she knows. I will have to give her my thanks for teaching you about us." Endymion gave her a sincere smile.
Taking her hand in his, he held it firmly and looked her in the eyes.
"I know this arrangement is sudden, but I promise you that I will do my best to protect you and the Alliance. Together I am sure we can defeat anything that comes our way. We are paving the way for a new era. I know it will not be easy, but do not lose hope in this arrangement. I will meet you halfway Serenity, if you will meet me there."
"Of course Endymion, you have my word!" Quickly she placed her other hand above his and squeezed. Letting go she turned her face back to the fountain.
"It is late now, I think I will retire to my room." Getting up to leave she paused when Endymion asked her a question.
"How did you manage to come to earth without a transport system? Why did you show up that night?"
His eyes were searching her for an answer.
Turning she stated, "I don't know. I was feeling very lonely that evening and my heart willed the crystal to send me somewhere where I wouldn't feel alone. Next thing I knew, I was in the forest where you met me. It seems the crystal is powerful enough to teleport its users without a transporter. I'm sure your Golden crystal can do so if you asked it to. Either way, I'm glad it took me to you, maybe it's a sign that we are meant to be together? Maybe it was coincidence? Who knows?"
The princess just gave him one last smile before making her way to her rooms. Her heart was pounding at that moment. The prince always made her nervous, she was proud of herself. For once she managed not to fall! Or so she thought, before her foot collided with an upturned stone. Bracing herself for impact, she was waiting to feel the cold stone against her arms, when instead she found herself in the arms of the Prince, pressed against his chest as his ragged breaths beat against her ear. She stood shaking in his arms as the adrenalin left her body, and was then replaced with embarrassment. How she wished the crystal would do her hearts bidding and teleport her out of his arms! Unfortunately she knew that would be childish. She would face this with all the dignity she could muster. Well, as much as she could, given her current situation.
"Maybe it was fate for me to meet you tonight? It seems you would have sustained a bad fall if I were not here." The Prince made sure to right her body before slowly letting her go.
"It seems that might be the case, you have my gratitude." Turning to smile at him, she gave a small curtsy. As soon as she was standing tall again, she leaned forward and whispered in his ear, "here is a token of appreciation" before placing a quick peck on his cheek. Turning quickly, she fled to her quarters. Leaving a stunned Endymion behind, holding his cheek.
"I think I'm going to really like her" he said to himself as he watched her image fade from view.
It had been weeks since Beryl awoke to find herself outside of the cave. She had managed to return to camp with no hassle. The day had gone, and the king had not bothered to ask her what her findings had been. She debated whether to tell him what she had seen, and decided to keep the secret a little while longer. Plans were made to look for other monoliths in the area, and great care was taken to ensure everyone's safety. The weeks had passed, and still nothing new was found. The king was starting to get tired, and arrangements were made to return to the castle the next day.
After a long day surveying the area, Beryl had arrived back to camp and had stopped by her tent to change into something warmer, as her former clothes had gotten soaked thru from the snow. Once dinner was eaten alone in her tent, she decided that now would be a good time to see the king. The soldiers moved out of the way as soon as she approached his majesty's tent. They knew the king would not object to her visits, at whatever time of day. Opening the flap silently, she realized she had walked into a conversation the king was having via the travel monitors set up in camp. She could hear the Queens voice as she informed the king of some very "good news".
Deciding to hear for herself what news this was, she stayed in the shadows to listen in. To her utmost horror, she heard what she feared the most. Her prince, had gotten himself engaged with that white witch from the moon! Just as Metallia had warned her about! It appeared that Titus was happy with the news as well. Feeling alone and betrayed, Beryl silently left the tent. She knew what she had to do. Going far out of the campsite, Beryl called forth the name that she had sworn she would not call.
"Metallia, I Beryl, summon thee!"
With that a cloud of smoke appeared around her and in the blink of an eye she was gone.
Cold was all Beryl felt when she woke up. Rubbing her arms she sat up and realized she was back in the dark castle from weeks ago. Standing up and walking towards the throne room, she felt before she heard Metallia.
"I see you have made a decision. Pray tell me what that is? But before you do, take a look at this, it might interest you."
Before her a vision appeared again. The prince seemed to be holding the white witch, except this time, she held no disguise. She watched in utter disbelief as the prince smiled at her and allowed her to give him a kiss on the cheek! How dare she play with him! Did he not know she was plotting his demise! Turning towards Metallia Beryl made her decision.
"I'll pledge myself to you as long as no harm comes to Endymion."
"Easy my darling! I can promise you that! Now you have to show me how serious you are about your pledge. I need you to kill someone for me. Will you do it?"
The evil Glint in Beryl's eyes was all the answer Metallia needed.
Pluto slowly closed the vision before her. Walking back to her post, with sunken eyes she whispered "It has begun".
Authors note:
Hello! It has been brought to my attention that the chapters are kinda long? If you would like them shorter please let me know! I would be glad to comply! If you guys have any questions or if I have made things confusing I would also like to know! once again thanks for reading! Oh yeah, who do you think is going to die? would love to hear your thoughts!
Love,
Tsukilight
