Mourning

"So the Bio dome here on the Moon Castle is the basis by which life is sustained?"

"Yes Zoisite, it is also the means by which the other planets manage to build their society. Mercury provides the Hermes drive, while the Silver Crystal gives the technology its initial power start. I am sure, the Golden Crystal has those abilities as well." Stated Ami, as she continued to lead the group of men along the walkway that lead through the engineering section of the palace.

The Generals had been asked at breakfast what they would like to see by the Queen. When none had volunteered, Zoisite spoke up about his desire to look at the superior technology the Alliance was known for.

The Queen had then volunteered Ami to take them on a tour, while she and Endymion stayed to discuss arrangements for the announcement at tonight's ball. Gladly Ami had acceded, as she knew and understood those drives better than anyone. They were the pride of her planet! It appeared though, that the only one paying any attention as ardently as she was speaking, was Zoisite.

When the tour was finished. Lita awaited them, stating that it was her turn to take over the tour. She would be tasked at entertaining the men by presenting them with snacks by the gardens. The men eagerly complied, as the Lunarian breakfast they had, was a little on the lite side for them. Eagerly partaking of the pastries set before them, they could only raise their brows at the delicious treats they were indulging in. When asked about them, Lita gladly informed them of the contents of the tasty morsels. They were a delicacy from Jupiter, as the planet was known for their love of cooking almost as much as their love of athleticism, and in particular, baking was the planets second best known secret.

"I dare say I have never had anything so delectable in my life!" Practically moaned Nephrite, in a way that was unbecoming of his station, as the third strongest man of Earth, following Endymion and Kunzite of course.

A pink blush arose on the Amazonian Princess as she gladly supplied to the group, that she was the one who had inspired such noises from the general.

"My dear, I think I would gladly send the kitchen cooks to Jupiter, that you may teach them such skills! Your pastries could placate even the angriest of men!" The twinkle in his eye as he gazed on the pastries matching the smile on his face.

"Well Nephrite, if you put half the effort in praising women, as much as pastries, you would be a married man by now!" Supplied Jadeite, as he patted his friend on the back, almost causing him to drop the pastry he was enamored with.

When all the treats were ingested by the generals, and a walk around the gardens taken, a new person joined the group.

"I'm glad you are all enjoying the talents of Princess Lita, but I am afraid I am now to accompany you to the next leg of your tour. I will be showing you around the Palace, giving you an in-depth look into the royal family." Said Rei in a very calm manner.

Jadeite only blanched as he saw the way she glared at him, while everyone else was given a polite smile. He supposed he earned it. His borderline lewd way of looking at her yesterday had caused him just short of a slap to the face from the beautiful woman before him. He was sure she would have, had the Queen not been in the room. But he blamed that on the sinfully short skirt that made up their soldier uniforms. He was sure that distraction was the element of surprise the designer had in mind when he created those garments. Place five pairs of toned legs in front of an army of deprived men, and they would easily have an advantage! The thought brought a smile to his face that was quickly removed when he noticed that the Princess of Mars was glaring at him again. He was going to have to do a lot of damage control for his mistake yesterday. Had he known that those "soldier women" where also princesses he would have controlled his wondering eyes better. Now he had until tonight to make up with the princess of mars before they went home tomorrow.

The tour down the Hall of the moon, as it was known, was quite informative. The men had learned about the formation of the Alliance, and how it had helped all the planets progress towards prosperity. The sacrifices made to attain that was not lost on the men as they gazed on the portrait of the late king Apollonius sitting on the throne, with his wife, the current queen beside him. By this portrait they could see a setting was being prepared. When asked, Rei softly supplied that a portrait of their prince and the princess would hang there, after the marriage, whenever that was to be. Four nods of understanding followed. The rest of the tour was lead with Jadeite in good behavior, trying to show his more serious side by asking well thought out questions. By the end of the tour, it seemed the princess almost smiled at him politely.

They were then lead to the training grounds where Kunzite, finally seemed to be quite interested. Instead of meeting with Artemis the head general, they were amazed when they saw a bubbly blond waiting for them. The four would have dropped their jaws in shock, had they forgotten that before them was the actual leader of the guardians to the princess. Not that they underestimated the woman's ability to fight, it was just a foreign concept. Especially when she was there dressed elegantly before them, like the princess she was. It seemed almost impossible for the men to imagine her as a deadly foe, but if that was what the reports stated they would give her the benefit of the doubt.

"Despite, all your technology, I see your weaponry has not advanced." Observed Kunzite, as he glanced at the weapons shed by the arena housing mostly swords, daggers, and spears.

"Well that is a true observation. We do not delight in advancing weapons of destruction, we rather use our resources for the advancement of our people." Replied Princess Mina in a calm voice. It was evident she had felt insulted by his previous words, and was trying to keep calm.

"And yet, is it not wise to invest in a strong defense, in order to protect your people, that they may indulge in their advancements?" Countered Kunzite. He had felt her words had been an insult to the state of earth's people, and was now trying to prove a point.

"Well I can see how that may be the case, if you do not have the necessary means to protect the planet without resorting to weaponry." Mina smiled sweetly as she came to stand before the head general with a smirk in her eyes.

Kunzite, was so irritated by the blond before him, but by the look on his stoic face, no one would have been the wiser. He was always the master at disguising his feelings.

"Really then? How do you suppose one fights without weapons?" One arched silver brow accompanied the question.

"I'll gladly show you."

With that the princess walked into the training arena, turning back to smile at him and wink before a blaze of orange engulfed her and she appeared before them in that tantalizing small skirt of hers.

"Well this is already good! I don't know what else can top this!" Whispered Jadeite to Kunzite.

Before Kunzite could chastise Jadeite for his remarks about a person of royal heritage, his attention was once again glued to the blond as she produced an orange light from her hand that radiated power. The light went on to expand and form a golden chain that she swung around her body before letting go and destroying a batch of hologram soldiers. She had done it all with just a flick of her wrist, while looking right at Kunzite.

"Witch craft?" Questioned Kunzite, visibly amazed at what he saw, but knowing no other way of attaining such deeds.

What he received was an angry blond woman stomping her way over to him and having reached him, gracing him with a slap to the face.

"Don't you ever compare our powers to that! They are a holy gift from the Silver Crystal! Each planet's princess was bestowed with this power for the protection of this universe! That has included your precious Earth! Never confuse the light of the crystal with wickedness, it is an insult of the highest means!"

The princess then released her transformation and appeared before them in her royal clothing again before excusing herself, obviously in an angered state. The four men just stared in awe at what had just transpired. No one had ever laid a hand on the leader of the four kings. No one made a noise, until Jadeite started laughing hysterically.

"Here I was, thinking I would take the rep for the worst impression amongst the four, but it seems my fears have been for naught. Kunzite, I fear you have surpassed me!"

"I would stop your teasing, Jadeite, Kunzite looks like he is not in the mood for your jokes." Zoisite whispered to Jadeite.

For indeed the captain did not look too pleased with the situation. He stayed stalk still as he gazed after the princess of Venus. The look in his eyes lost between admiration and anger.

"Would a month after my birthday celebration be an adequate amount of time?" Endymion looked upon the Queen, hoping his suggestion was not too brash.

"That sounds like a sufficient amount of time for preparations. Well then, let us summarize our plans. Tonight at the ball, we announce the Alliance's decision and your betrothal to Serenity to our people. Your birthday celebration would be a good time to present Serenity to the Earth and announce your engagement. Your suggestion, about a months' time after, should be enough for the moon to prepare for the marriage ceremony. "

Endymion stole a glance at Serenity to smile at her, before turning his attention back to his soon to be mother-in-law.

"Mother and Father were very pleased to hear of the arrangement. They were the ones to suggest that we introduce Serenity at my birthday celebration as my betrothed. When I return home tomorrow, we will start with the plans of informing the people of earth about the alliance that they may warm up to the idea. I am sure, with time, the people of earth will accept the Alliance with open hearts!"

"It is my sincere wish as well! Now I fear we should leave you to your men, they should be returning shortly from their tours. We will go and prepare for tonight, it is a going to herald in the coming of a new age! Serenity, I will leave you with Endymion for a bit, I will wait for you in your quarters."

The Queen then tilted her head towards the prince, and turned towards the doors into the hallway. After the doors closed with a loud thud, Endymion walked over to the princess, who he could tell was embarrassed to be alone with him, no doubt her actions from last night being the cause. As he remembered a smile came to his face.

Her frightened expression after her chaste kiss had been so adorable. She looked as if she had committed a mortal sin. His thoughts were interrupted as he heard her speak.

"After tonight, our real life is about to begin. We will start on a new path which will define who we are in history books. As the first marriage to unite Earth and Moon." Serenity lifted her vision from the ground, where it had been planted. The sight of his sapphire eyes looking intently at her causing her heart to skip beats. She sorely needed to stop causing her heart such grief, surely that was not healthy for her!

Just as she was about to look down again, she felt as the Prince gently took her hand, the warmth that said contact had, spreading to her body at the speed of light.

"Let us not focus on the far future, but on the now. I fear I know so little about you. I would like to get to know you better. After all, we will rule together, let us then be of one mind. Allow me the privilege of courting you, even though we are set to end up together, let us enjoy a proper courtship."

Serenity's heart could almost burst from happiness. Here was a man she would truly love! He sincerely wished to woo her, not just take her for granted, since she was already promised to him. He spoke of ruling together, taking her into account! What more could she ask for!

The prince did not know how to construe the tears that were falling from her eyes as she looked at him. Yet, when he saw her soft smile it told him they were tears of joy. Happy that she was glad at his offer, he let the happiness infect him as well. Leaning forward, it was his time to surprise the princess by placing a small chaste kiss to her cheek. Softly he whispered to her ear "thank you for accepting".

When he looked upon her, his sight was greeted with the view of the princess glowing red, if that were possible. The sight she made had him chuckle slightly, before adding "I suppose I am allowed the same liberties as you, right?"

When the princess snapped out of her trance, she just smiled at him, before excusing herself. Making her way she stopped just as she reached the door and called out to him.

"I would like a minute with you at the ball, before the announcement. There is something I would like to show you."

With that she left, leaving the prince wondering what that something was.

By the time Serenity reached her quarters, her mother was waiting in her sitting room with a neatly wrapped package in her hands. She was drinking tea, and appeared to be thinking about something. As soon as Serenity made herself known, her mother stood up, brought back from her thoughts.

"Serenity, I have news for you. Terra has informed me that she will not be able to continue giving you lessons for the time being, until after your presentation at the prince's birthday party. She sends her utmost regrets about the situation. It appears that she has much to do around the castle in preparation for said event. She has told me to please give you this small gift."

Serenity accepted the small package, and slowly studied it. The emerald packaging was very beautiful, with an elegant golden pattern. Sitting down she went to work slowly unwrapping the gift. Once the wrapping was carefully removed, she noticed it was a jewelry case. Slowly lifting the case, a small gasp escaped her lips as she gazed upon the beautiful necklace that Terra always wore. The precious moonstone necklace with rose shaped ruby hanging down the center. A note accompanied her most generous gift. It read:

Serenity, I am so happy to have met you, and see what a wonderful person the princess of the moon truly is. It was an honor teaching you about my planet. I am so sorry that I could not be there to listen to the wonderful announcement that will undoubtedly bring blessings to the earth and moon, but most importantly to you and the prince. I am sure you will be happy with him. I have known that child all his life, and I can assure you that he will not only protect you better than anyone, but love you like no other. I will see you again when you visit for the prince's birthday. On that day, I would like for you to wear this necklace. It is a token of appreciation for the wonderful time spent with you. I would love to see it on you when we meet then! I look forward to welcoming you to earth! I have much to tell you and some surprises!

With much love,

Terra

Serenity could only run her finger over the fine jewelry in appreciation. It truly was an exquisite piece of jewelry! Something that not even a court lady would own. It was something suitable for a queen. Terra had worn it so well, and carried herself with such confidence that Serenity had never felt it out of place on her. She hoped to wear it well and put a smile on Terra's face when she saw it on her. Placing it on the table, she looked at her mother, who had been watching silently, almost as if she knew something more than she. That's when she remembered that she had forgotten to ask her mother about Terra's background and how close she was to the royal family. She had referred to the prince on a first name basis that night, when she caught her sleeping in the library.

"Mother, I have been meaning to ask you, what is Terra's position within court, is she close to the royal family?"

"She has much influence in court my dear. She did not want to intimidate you, and wished to keep her position a secret. In regards to her relationship with the royal family, she has always been in close contact with them. Regardless, just know that she wanted to get to know you without such formalities getting in the way. I will let her fill you in on that a little more when you see her again. But Serenity, I have a much more pressing matter to speak with you."

Gathering her daughter's hands in hers, she squeezed them and looked her straight in the eyes, grey to sky blue.

"I want you to know, if you don't want to go through with this, now is the time to tell me. I can still change the terms to so that you don't have to marry Endymion. If you are doing this to please me, you don't have to. I want your happiness more than anything."

Throwing herself into her mother's arms, Serenity hugged her tightly before answering.

"Thank you for giving me a choice, but to be honest, I was more than happy to oblige the Alliance in this arrangement. I think I am finding it easy to love him. I am sure I will be happy with him mother. I think I am actually looking forward to it."

"Well then my dear, you have dismissed my fears! I am thrilled to know that you are in accordance with this decision mind and heart! Now I must leave. We have a ball to get ready for! I have had a special gown prepared for you, it should be brought to you later this afternoon."

As soon as the queen exited her bedroom, Serenity let herself fall on her bed and close her eyes. She was emotionally exhausted and needed to close her eyes for a second, tonight would be a long night. One that would definitely change everyone's life.

"Now here is the final touch Serenity."

The princess could only look in the mirror as Luna attached a pair of fine gossamer wings to the back of her satin ivory dress with platinum embroidery. With every move, the light set of fine sparkles from the polished sapphire stones that were laid about the bodice of her dress. The piece was different than usual, the wings for one, the color variation the other. Her mother said that the blue stones were symbolic for earth. The dress was truly beautiful, perfect for tonight's event.

"The dress is said to match well with Prince Endymion's wardrobe tonight. What a fine pair you will make! To think that you would marry so soon after me! I feel as if time has gone too fast! It was only yesterday that you would run from your lessons. I would always find you sitting on that bench of yours in the garden, staring at the earth. I am glad that you will now be a part of the planet you have always loved so much!"

Luna turned Serenity around, and careful with her wings, gave her a hug.

"Oh Luna, you act as if I wed tonight! That is still about four months away! Let us just enjoy the evening. It will go down in history as a very special day!"

"Well then, let me gather the girls that we may go down to the ball room together!"

With that Luna was off to gather the girls while Serenity pulled out a small package from her drawer and hid it in her dress.

"Oh Gaia! Why didn't you just come tonight! It is a very historic moment! I don't know why you are missing this!"

Queen Serenity looked perplexed on the monitor as Gaia looked upon her. The beautiful queen of earth only sighed as she responded.

"Titus has been off on an expedition looking into some monoliths that have appeared to the far north. He finally came home today, after weeks, and I was excited to see him. I had hoped we would have time to attend, but it appears we won't. He has been in a serious mood since he arrived, and I don't know why." Gaia rubbed her temples as she continued.

"Lately he has been more moody than usual, but his demeanor when he arrived was such that I have never seen before. I am truly worried! Let Endymion enjoy himself without us there to burden him. We still have his birthday celebration to attend, and will be just as glad when we announce the engagement here." Looking up into the monitor she gave her good friend a sad smile.

"Gaia, I will do my best to insure those two have a good time tonight. I am very pleased with your boy. He is every bit the gentleman and turning out to be a great leader! When the time comes, he will lead the Alliance into greater prosperity!" The lunarian queen looked upon her friend with admiration. For she knew that Gaia had everything to do with Endymion's ways. The royal line of the earth was thru Gaia, and Titus had become prince consort to her, but she had gladly allowed him the title of king, for Gaia had wanted equality in the marriage. Such good principle's came from her and Serenity was glad that Gaia had instilled them into her son.

"I leave you to that my friend. I will be glad when everything is said and done. I have had this feeling that something isn't right, for some time. I suppose it has something to do with the monoliths, which is why I need to speak with Titus about what he has found."

Gaia looked upon her friend who had grown quite pensive at her last words.

"Serenity, it will be all right I.." Before Gaia could finish, she was interrupted by the lunarian queen.

"It's not that Gaia, it's the monoliths you mention. I believe the moon had something like that occur as well. Let me look into it, before I say anything else."

Before Gaia could answer she heard a knock at the door, and heard it being opened slowly. Turning around she the smile on her face vanished as she saw the head magician enter her quarters. Looking at the monitor, she addressed her friend.

"Serenity, it seems I have company. I look forward to our next conversation. Please do look into what we discussed. Give your daughter a hug for me."

Turning off the monitor before Beryl could get any closer, she turned to look at her uninvited guest. What she saw unnerved her. Gone was the shy, modest court magician she was used to seeing. Before her vision was a woman that had no shame. Beryl was dressed in a skin tight plum gown that left little to the imagination as it was as revealing as possible. Her hair, which was a beautiful shade of red, resembled flames as it was flowing wildly behind her. The kind eyes she had at one point, were no longer the beautiful green they once were, now they were a dark threatening red. She gave her a slow villainous smile, and started walking towards her.

"Beryl, I am glad that you have returned. I have been expecting to see Titus, have you seen him?" Gaia was scared, but was attempting to mask it with civil talk.

"Titus will not be joining you. At least not for now. Tell me Gaia, how long have you been betraying your people for?" Beryl paused her advancement as she looked the Queen in the eyes.

"Whatever do you mean? I don't know what you are referring to. Do not forget your place Beryl. You are talking to your queen! It is I who ask the questions!" Gaia was urgently trying to buy time, as she knew this meeting was not going to end well. Slowly walking towards her desk, she was hoping to stall Beryl with conversation until she could reach an object she could use for protection.

"You are not my queen!" Screamed Beryl, as her eyes lit up with anger.

"How can a queen betray her people by arranging an alliance that will lead to our downfall? I know how you plan to enslave Endymion to that moon witch! Can you not see that they are toying with us? The people of the moon must be disposed of! They hinder the advancement of earth, and only wish to exploit us! If you can accept that, I might spare you." Beryl started her advancement again.

"Beryl, I am Endymion's mother, I only want what's best for him. If you continue with your plans and harm me, you will only drive him farther away from you." Gaia was almost to her desk and had spotted a good weapon. Her letter opener would have to do.

"You did not answer my question. So answer me now! Will you stop his engagement to the moon witch! Will you join me in killing off those unnatural beings?"

Beryl was standing face to face with Gaia at this point. While Gaia was staring Beryl in the eyes, her hand had quietly secured her weapon.

"Beryl, I cannot do that. Endymion has been linked to Serenity since birth. No matter what form they find each other in, they will always end up together. They are soul bound. Give up on those thoughts! If you truly love Endymion then help him make earth grand, by supporting the changes that are coming." Gaia's voice cracked as she spoke to Beryl. She really did not like resorting to violence, but if she had no choice, she would do it. She readied the letter opener behind her hand. Beryl's next words would decide if she used her makeshift weapon.

"Silly queen, you really think that letter opener will save you?"

With those words, a strong force moved Gaia's arm against her will and brought the letter opener to view.

"It appears my mercy was wasted on you. Do not worry, I will take good care of Endymion. We will blame your death on the moon people. Isn't it grand? Your death will be known as the cause of the war between earth and moon. And here you were trying to unite them!"

A hideous cackle escaped Beryl's lips. Just at that moment. Gaia pulled all her strength together and lifted the letter opener to strike Beryl. Gaia aimed at her neck, if she was going to have one shot, it would be to kill. Just as the makeshift knife was approaching its target, Beryl blasted the queen with energy, sending her flying back into the room, but not before Gaia managed to cause a slash that ran across Beryl's forehead.

"That was close my dear, but unfortunately for you, not enough to stop me."

Walking slowly towards Gaia's body that lay stunned on the ground, she crouched by her and whispered in her ear.

"Rest well, I will take good care of Endymion, mother in law."

Then taking the letter opener, she barely flinched as she thrust it into the queen.

Standing up, she gathered the weapon and incinerated it in her hands. Leaving a note by the queen's body she walked out of the room.

The grand ball room thrummed with energy as everyone was talking about what the grand announcement would be for the night. All knew that it had something to do with earth, as its royal prince had been invited to the ball, and was clearly the talk of the night, amongst the ladies at least.

"Wow Serenity, I have to say, you are the luckiest woman alive. To think the fates linked you to that handsome male specimen! I only hope it bodes well for me when they negotiate for my hand in marriage!" The princess of Venus mused more to herself than Serenity as she looked upon the group of five men that where across the room.

"Oh Mina, I am sure your parents will ensure that you honestly love the man they pair you with! How can a planet that boasts to represent love do otherwise? Of all the girls, you will marry for love without a doubt!" Serenity happily supplied.

"But are you? Serenity, I can see that you are in love with him, but is he with you? A happy marriage is one with two people that are in love, not just one. I can read your aura, and it is blossoming with love. Unfortunately, I can't read him and it worries me." Mina looked Serenity in the eyes, concern evident.

"Of course Mina. Love does not grow overnight! I have had the chance to know of him and study him more than he has me! I don't expect him to feel the same for me at this time. I know it sounds like I am blindly hoping for this, but I can feel that we connect. I just know deep down inside, that all will be well. He will come to love me, I know it."

"Mina, stop worrying the princess with your unfounded concerns! The fires of mars have shown me that he is a great man. He will love and protect our princess, even more than us!" Rei placed a reassuring hand on Serenity's back as she smiled at her in encouragement.

"Besides, we have bigger things to worry about. Like which one of us will dance with his generals when the dance starts! I will gladly take Nephrite, out of the group he is the most agreeable!" Lita smiled as she remembered his love of her baking.

"You only say that because he kept bragging about your treats. If you ask me, I think Zoisite is quite agreeable as well. He is certainly intelligent and can carry on a good conversation." Supplied Ami in defense of her newest friend.

"Well then I guess I will dance with Jadeite, after all blondes have more fun! Rei, you can have that stone faced old man. You can both bore each other to death!" Mina huffed as she remembered that infuriating man. He hadn't even tried to apologize for his words earlier! She had dressed to kill, hoping to make him pay for his words by taunting him with her looks. No man could resist the princess of love, or at least she hoped.

"Mina I regret to change your plans, but you must dance with the head general, as you are the leader of my guardians. Rei, you dance with Jadeite, if you don't cool his wondering eyes, no one else can." Serenity laughed at the faces Mina and Rei made, but it couldn't be helped.

"Fine, I'll do it! But I beg you to give me permission to scorch his rear if he attempts anything against me!" Rei's stoic face looked as if she were being given an important mission, and was asking for permission to use force.

"Fine, just don't leave any permanent damage. We are just establishing peace with them, it wouldn't do to send one of their government officials with burn marks back to earth." Said Serenity trying not to laugh at the idea.

"Who has burn marks?"

At the sound of that voice Serenity straightened and composed herself before turning to see her intended looking at her with a twinkle in his eyes.

"If you are referring to Jadeite, you can leave as many as you wish Princess Rei, but I warn you, that may not be enough to cure him of his ways." Endymion gave a playful smile to the group of princesses. Behind him trailed his guards, all standing with smiling faces, save one.

"If you would accept, we would like to escort you to the dance floor. It appears the dance is about to start."

Endymion bowed and then asked for her hand as he led her to the dance floor. His generals and her guards following close behind.

"Artemis, look! Don't they look lovely?" Luna stood by her husband looking as radiant as ever. She seemed to give off a glow that wasn't there before. Marriage had done wonderful things to both Artemis and her.

"They do love, they do. I can tell you that your princess is in good hands. He has the stance of a warrior and the careful eyes of a tactician." Artemis stated his observations to his flustered wife.

"Darling, I was referring to the way they look with each other. The way he looks at her and her at him. It's the start of young love!" Sighed Luna as she looked at them.

"I suppose. It's always nice to see others find someone to share their life with. I know I am." Artemis softly placed a kiss on her head and held her closer.

"I wish we could join them. I have been so dizzy as of late, I couldn't stomach the idea of dancing. Too many turns. I guess I will celebrate from here!" Luna said as her eyes followed the couples on the dance floor.

"Luna, how long have you felt this way?" Artemis was truly concerned, Luna had not informed him of any of this.

"Ever since we came back from Mau, I think my body hasn't adjusted to being back yet."

"Luna, that was weeks ago. You shouldn't feel like that anymore." Grabbing Luna by the shoulders he turned her towards him and looked her in the eyes.

"Luna is there any chance you could be.."

Before he could finish the sentence Luna fainted in his arms. Hugging her to him, he lifted her up and took her to a private chamber where she could rest. A large smile was planted on his face, it appeared they might have more than one reason to celebrate tonight.

A couple made their way out to the balcony, the light of earth illuminating them in their private meeting. Once sure no one followed, they scurried along the garden path's to stand before a rose bush water fountain.

"What is it you wanted to talk to me about?" Endymion stood still, admiring the flush their run had made on Serenity's face.

"I wanted to confess something to you. Please hear me through to the end. Endymion, I knew of you before we met. Once, over a year ago, I caught an image of you on my mother's computer screen. I always wondered who you were. After searching for you amongst the planets, I almost gave up hope that I would find you. One night, my heart cried out for comfort, and when I woke, I was on earth. There I met you. I believe Endymion that we are bound. By what, I do not know. All I know is that I loved you before I met you. Having you here now, only tells me that this love will continue to grow. You are an amazing person. That is why I would like to give you this. An emblem of my love for you. May you look at it and always think of me in these coming months, and forever."

Serenity produced a small star shaped watch, the same one she had lost when back on earth. Endymion held out his hand to receive that small token, and was about to accept it when a large boom came from the palace.

Turning towards it, they could sense something had gone terribly wrong. The large floor to ceiling windows had shattered and dark smoke bellowed from inside. Taking her hand, Endymion ran back to the palace with Serenity in tow. What they saw when they entered caused Endymion to blanch.

His father was standing in the middle of the wreckage, a wild look on his face. Making his way to the large throne, were the Queen sat, he shouted at the top of his voice.

"Murderer! How dare you try to celebrate tonight, when your plans have been found out! How dare you attempt to take over our world by slaying your biggest ally?"

Standing the Queen looked upon Titus, concern registered on her face.

"Titus, I do not know what you are talking about! Calm down, and let us talk like civilized people! The guests are frightened by the attack you have launched against us! Please, we are about to accomplish so much! What has caused you to act out in this manner?"

The queen was truly devastated by what had occurred. She was sure the Alliance would go back on their arrangement after such a show of hostility from earth.

"What caused this? Do you really wish to see Serenity?"

Titus then signaled to his soldiers to come forth. The one at the head, seemed to be carrying a person in his arms covered by a thin sheet.

"Come here and see for yourself, pull back the cover and face what you have done!" The rage in the king's voice was so raw. The Queen could only do as she was told, and walked over to the soldier with caution. Pulling back the sheet, the Queen stumbled back as she gasped in horror at the image before her.

"This is what you have done, can you not bear to see it? Look at her and tell me that was not your doing!"

The queen could only shake her head to deny those accusations. The shock of seeing her closest friend in that state, blocking her abilities to do anything but stare.

Endymion, not having noticed who lay in the arms of the soldier, quickly called over his guards and Serenity's guardians, who had changed the instant the attack occurred. Giving Serenity to their care, he slowly made his way to his father, approaching with caution.

"Father, what is the meaning of this? Who has…"

His words stayed caught in his throat as he gazed upon the lifeless body of the queen of earth, his beloved mother. Falling to his knees in shock, silent tears fell from his eyes. After what felt like an eternity, Endymion was brought back to reality when he noticed his father move. It wasn't until he noticed his father pull his sword and run towards Queen Serenity that he acted, sending a burst of power from his hand. Having stunned his father he quickly called for his generals to subdue him.

Standing slowly, he went to the soldier who held his mother and removed her from his arms. Cradling her softly he kissed her hair and cried as he whispered apologies against unhearing ears. Looking at his father with pity, he motioned for the guards to let him go.

"Father, what mother needs is to be back home. We will investigate this further, you are clearly out of your mind with grief."

"Turning to the queen he said, I do not know who was involved in this, but what I can say is they will pay."

Walking towards the soldiers and calling forth his father, he had them join and stand together. Calling forth the power from his golden crystal he willed it to transport them home. Glancing towards Serenity he gave her a sad smile before a golden light started surrounding the group. Then with a flash of light, they were gone.

"You have done as I have asked?" Said a dark voice that appeared joyous at the news she was about to hear.

"Yes, she is gone. Now you must allow me the power you have said and the man that I love." Said Beryl with cold eyes to the shadow. An eerie laugh was the response she got.

"My dear I promised you no harm would come to him. But alas, you have done my bidding. Now I will reward you for your troubles. Close your eyes and embrace more power!"

A dark shadow swirled around Beryl, nipping her every so often and drawing blood. It seemed were she was wounded the dark swirl would then heal her. Every time that happened, she felt more power well up within her. When the ordeal was over her body was thrumming with power, and a need to cause more destruction.

"Now my dear, the prince will be yours, he is the end goal. To get to him, you are going to have to engage in an unpleasant union, but only for a little while. I hear there is a new vacancy for queen of earth. How would you like to fill it?"

Authors note:

Hello all! Sorry to leave it here, but if I kept going it would have been too long of a chapter. Did you guys see it coming? What do you expect to happen? Would love to hear your thoughts! Again I wanted to send my thank you to everyone who has read and reviewed. Particularly JFVM, thanks for always being encouraging! Also, to all the people that are following my story and favored it! See you all next week!

Love,

Tsukilight