UPDATED 2016
Title: Conquest
Genre: Romance/Drama
Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon yet do own this storyline and Fergal, the awesome Sun King
Authors Note:
Forgive me for taking so long with this! What a terrible cliffhanger I left you on... shame on me.
All thanks to sweet pdiana90 for her absolutely loving review that got me off my bum and get out this chapter!
ALL of your reviews mean so much to me! Thank you so much for taking the time to leave them for me. They matter so much!
It took so long because every time I read it I kept adding more... it's just such a huge point and it's so long...
Enjoy :)
The room was vast but Endymion was feeling a bit suffocated. Her words still echoed in his head for him not to leave her. He had already left her once and the ripples of that decision had become waves that were crashing into him in this very room. He closed his eyes for a moment to regain himself and he felt warm fingers suddenly squeeze his own.
"They are right outside your majesty. Are you ready?" Princess Marlina breathed beside him and he nodded and gave her fingers a reassuring squeeze. "We are behind you." Those words resonated in his chest and he glanced at the young princess.
"Why is that again?" He chuckled lightly.
"Because the galaxy's pickiest Princess choose you above everyone and that is enough for me," she breathed and Endymion gulped a bit. The large marble doors creaked open and the noise of the galaxy's monarch standing echoed around the room.
"Her highness the Crown Princess Serenity of the Moon and Prince Diamonde of Nemesis," Artemis announced regally with a bow and Diamonde led his soon to be bride beside him to the head of the waiting table.
"Prince Diamonde, my daughter. Welcome. Forgive this sudden meeting but I am afraid some business has come up that involves you both greatly," King Fergal began and just like that the meeting began without any need for pomp. Serenity raised an eyebrow at her father and than sat as Diamonde took the seat beside her.
"I am listening," Diamonde replied and Fergal nodded, Selenity rising to stand by his side.
"Allow me to introduce you to the members of the Galactic Alliance. Each represent one of the nine planets in our solar system. For twenty years we have been at peace and become allies closer than brothers. We are a family and my daughter was elected head of that family four years ago and they have followed her faithfully," Fergal began and Serenity felt her eyes begin to well with tears. As she stared at the faces before her a deep loathing for herself almost started to drown her. She didn't even recognize herself anymore. The woman they all followed and loved was gone and replaced now by a woman who was destroying them. Diamonde smiled lovingly at his bride as her father spoke well of her, but his smile brought her no comfort. It seemed to mock her instead that she had chosen to dance among a minefield rather than lead her people wisely. "Yet, I am afraid with her marriage many of our members are breaking from their alliance," Fergal stated and a single fat tear fell from Serenity's eye as pain smashed into her heart.
"A shame," Diamonde hissed sadly, his bright eyes still smiling with mirth.
"Many is a generous word my lord. All have jumped out and the Galactic Alliance I am afraid no longer exists," Endymion suddenly filled in and a gasp echoed around them as Serenity suddenly seemed to try and suck all of the air out of the room. She tried to stand but Diamonde pushed her back into her seat.
"Oh, we aren't that bad… to all jump out seems a bit excessive," Diamonde cooed, his charm lost on each inhabitant in the room as their stone faces regarded him with mild tolerance. "Would that not leave you terribly vulnerable? I mean… you could be picked off like that," the snapping of his fingers made Serenity jump. She was going to be sick…
"Diamonde," she breathed beside him and he ignored her.
"Perhaps your Alliance was foolish anyway though if you seem to jump ship at first sight of danger," he said with a condescending boredom that made Endymion want to snap his head off. "Not that we of course are dangerous! We are in love…" he grinned wrapping an arm around his bride's shoulders. She visibly tensed and her jaw set as her fingers gripped to the arms of her chair. "This is a terrible wedding gift," he mused.
"The Alliance was anything but foolish. It is the shining star of this galaxy," Serenity's voice cut him off suddenly.
"No, my love. You are the shining star of this galaxy and it is very evident they don't like to share. I can't really blame them though," he sucked in a deep breath as his eyes roved over her possessively. Serenity glanced away, sucking in a deep breath as she felt violated by his very look. "I find it a little childish to turn their back on twenty years of dedication just because of new management…" Diamonde chuckled lightly and Serenity pressed her lips together, her head lowering in a bit of defeat.
"I find it a grand reason," Queen Selenity offered suddenly and Serenity's gaze snapped up to her mother surprised. "And forgive me Prince Diamonde… as I am over seven centuries old I must inform you that I am anything but a child," her voice was stern and Diamonde gulped a bit at the power radiating behind her words.
"Perhaps I was harsh…" Diamonde offered, his charm turning on once more. "You can understand my rash statements of course. To have an alliance suddenly die just because of one perfect union…" He whispered with affection as he turned to his bride. Gently his finger touched her chin and she yanked away from him disgusted. His eyes narrowed at the action and his jaw set.
"Perfection just isn't the first word that pops in my mind when I think of your union," Endymion's voice mused casually from across the room and he intertwined his fingers together, his steel blue eyes catching Diamonde's cold blue. "You really shouldn't worry about your 'perfect union's' effect on us though Prince. We have formed a new Alliance," Endymion's voice cut through the air and Serenity turned to stare at him with shock, Diamonde's eyes widened. "With me at its head. The New Alliance is quite ready and willing to protect itself yet in no way is able to be compromised by your… you said perfect union right? Sorry, I just can't get past unholy abomination, it just appears in my head every time," he mused and a few snickers echoed around the room. Diamonde's eyes narrowed dangerously at the arrogant man across the room.
"Prince Diamonde, it is because of your impending union with our daughter that the Moon though has been denied access to the New Alliance," Fergal continued and Serenity turned horrified eyes to her parents. She covered her mouth in shame… she had left the Moon defenseless. "Unless we denounce our only heir," Fergal breathed a bit heavily and Serenity's eyes widened and her hand dropped to her lap in utter shock.
"Excuse me?" Diamonde hissed.
"If the King and Queen of the Moon strip their daughter of her title and crown she will be free to cause no political entanglements with whichever union she undertakes," Queen Amite filled in dutifully from the left side of the table.
"No one does that. You would not denounce your own flesh and blood. I have seen how much you love her," Diamonde huffed and Fergal took a threatening step towards him. Serenity quickly put her hand on her fiancé's arm trying to keep him at ease as she saw her father narrow his eyes at the young insolent prince.
"Indeed, I do love her," Fergal ground out. "I love her so much that I refuse to kill her people… the one thing she will always love more than anything or anyone," his voice boomed across Diamonde's face and Diamonde stared at him with a thin tolerance. "Because of that love, we will never join in Alliance with Nemesis. No lost love between us I hope," Fergal hissed condescendingly and Diamonde's eyes narrowed dangerously at the Sun King. "In order to save our people we here by strip our precious and beloved daughter of her crown, her title and her right to be the next Queen of the Moon Kingdom," Fergal announced and Serenity almost choked. "I would rather her be a peasant than give her power and title to you."
Venus shot a surprised look to her mother as this news hit each of the Senshi around the room with alarm. They were going to strip Serenity of her crown? A look of horror spread across Mercury's face and she took a step forward towards her mother than stilled, stopped by protocol as Lunar shot her a look.
Footsteps echoed to Serenity's left and Serenity looked up to see Artemis gently bend down and remove the crown from her head. His hand suddenly returned and pressed a thumb against her forehead over her moon emblem. She gasped; instinctively trying to jerk away but she held herself straight. It only took a few moments and her eyes tried to glance anywhere but at the man in front of her who was using magic within her. She caught eyes of sympathy from those seated at the table. Yet, when her eyes flickered to a pair that were as deep as an ocean across the table she suddenly felt strength flood her. Her eyes closed in acceptance as her father's words bounced to her heart… She would rather be a peasant than give Diamonde anything.
In an instant her heritage was gone and she felt loss as Artemis moved away from her. Just like that… she was no longer the Princess of the Moon.
"You cannot do this!" Diamonde hissed standing angrily.
"My daughter shall also not inherit the power of the Silver Crystal. Only the Monarch of the Moon can possess it," Selenity breathed, placing a hand over her amulet and Diamonde roared.
"WHAT?" His anger permeated the room and in silence the rest of the monarch took in his actions.
Everything hit Serenity at once. She had just lost her birthright, her future… yet… a small smile fell upon her lips and she closed her eyes once more and tears of joy spilled out. The Galactic Alliance was safe as well as her Kingdom. She sucked in a deep breath to steady herself so she wouldn't scream out with joy.
"My love this is outrageous! Tell me this can't be done!" He yelled and grabbed her by her arms and yanked her roughly to her feet. Endymion rose half from his chair to pummel the Prince where he stood yet King Jaron grabbed his elbow holding him back.
"I am afraid my lord it can," she mumbled through tears and he shoved her back into her seat.
"This is unacceptable," he growled, panic beginning to ebb into him as he saw his plans go up in smoke.
"But we thought you only wanted her Prince Diamonde. We thought this would be agreeable since your planet hates most of our own. This allows you to take your bride and leave our solar system forever," Endymion hissed and Serenity shot a hurtful look at him. True, she had dug her own grave but he didn't have to send her off into it so gracefully.
"This is not in the plan at all! It is a trick! One day before our wedding?" Diamonde demanded and shook his head violently.
"I am afraid our hands are tied. We are bound to our Alliances and this is what they have requested in order for us to remain in their ranks. Just because you have my daughter does not mean we are friends. In fact, it kind of makes us enemies," Fergal rationalized and his wife put a hand on his arm to stop him.
"Darling," she chastised and he shrugged helplessly.
"What? I did not declare war… technically," he mumbled quietly to her and Diamonde turned to him with anger.
"Do you think I am afraid of a King with no planet?" He spat mockingly.
"You really should be," Endymion mused from across the room, a small smirk on his lips at Fergal's actions. "A man without a planet is a very dangerous element…"
"Could snap at any moment," Fergal finished and Diamonde took a small step back, his hand reaching behind him to get Serenity's but her hand did not go to his. He turned surprised and she could only stare back at him.
"Are you going to let these people talk to me that way? Your future King?" He demanded and Serenity let out a shaky breath.
"How can I stop them milord? I am nothing," she whispered holding up her hands helplessly and he smacked one of her hands away and closed the distance between them roughly.
"You are the Princess of the Moon! You are supposed to rule these galaxies forever!" he roared and she winced at his proximity.
"Since she will not be taking the throne and will not inherit the Silver Crystal she will lose her immortality and powers," Selenity announced solemnly and Serenity gulped
as she literally felt Diamonde began to shake with anger. She took a tentative step back and sucked in a shattering breath but her eyes were resolved, her posture perfect.
"I accept those terms," she announced and Fergal grinned at her sweetly. Brave girl. Diamonde grabbed her roughly pulling her against him.
"What are you doing!?" He yelled into her ear and Serenity winced painfully.
"My lord… did you not always say you just wanted me and me alone? How should this new agreement displease you?" Serenity asked quietly and Diamonde turned eyes filled with anger upon her.
"How dare you…" He hissed, struggling with himself to not beat her right then and there. "You are what you are! You are the most powerful Princess in the galaxy… they cannot take that from you! From me!" He screamed.
"Have I displeased you my lord?" Serenity asked meekly and he exploded.
"YES!" He screamed and Endymion almost rose out of his chair once more.
Serenity let out a breath and gently pulled her arm from his grasp.
"Than I must bow out of our engagement. If I have displeased you my lord I have broken our agreement. You are free to pursue another bride," she breathed and Diamonde's jaw dropped. "I am but a peasant now anyway," she finished strongly.
Mercury could take no more. She stepped forward quickly, pulling out a portfolio and placing it in front of her mother. She spoke to her quickly and quietly in her ear and Queen Amite's eyes widened in shock as she opened the book before her, her eyes digging into the words. Queen Selenity watched them with wonder. What on earth would Mercury break protocol for?
"You will never be free. You are mine forever," Diamonde growled grabbing onto her arm roughly and she let out a whimper of pain. Endymion was out of his chair and moving across the room. Mercury quickly stepped before him, cutting off his route. He eyed her angrily and she let out a breath, gently placing her hand on his arm.
"Forgive me Prince Diamonde but I must disagree with you on that point," a voice suddenly said and all eyes turned to the Queen of Mercury.
"Who the hell are you?" He spat angrily, his grip on his bride not lessening and she whimpered, her fingers trying to pry his hand from her arm.
"I am Queen Amite of Mercury. It has been our people's solemn duty to protect this galaxy legally through its many contracts and treaties over the centuries." Diamonde turned away from her immediately and moved Serenity towards the door. Serenity was struggling against him causing her father to move towards her. Selenity grabbed onto him tightly, keeping him in his place, her eyes commanding Serenity's warriors to stay where they were as well. "As it stands your proposal is actually null and void Prince," she breathed and Endymion blinked with surprise as the others in the room looked to the small Queen as well. Diamonde stilled than slowly turned, his crystal eyes darkening angrily.
"What did you say?" He hissed and the Queen's lips curled up in a smirk as she picked up a black portfolio with the crest of Earth embossed on the front of it that her daughter had just handed her.
"It is null Prince because Princess Serenity was under another betrothment when she signed yours. Our galaxy's laws are clear that the first legal contract is binding and any other proceeding contract is null and void as long as the first still exists."
"Excuse me?" He bellowed and Serenity's eyes widened as what Queen Amite was saying dawned on her. Immediately her gaze went to Mercury and the Warrior smiled softly at her Princess with a gentle bow of her head. The last she had seen of that proposal was when Endymion had handed it to the Mercurian before her Peace Conference a year ago. After everything had blown up Amille had told her she had taken care of it… That genius. Dawning hit the rest of the room all at once.
"She's mine," Endymion suddenly announced to the room and Mercury stepped easily out of his way as he sailed towards them.
"You!?" Diamonde roared and Serenity yanked, sending herself falling towards the floor as she freed herself from his grasp. "You were betrothed to an Earthling!?" He snarled, his face turning red and Serenity tried to scurry to her feet.
"Most willingly," she replied strongly and Endy immediately pulled her to her feet and behind him.
"I am afraid I have to cancel your wedding Prince on account that the bride belongs to me," Endymion snarled, Serenity's fingers grasping onto him as she pressed herself against his back. Diamonde stared contemptuously at the two than he spit upon the white marble floor.
"So… you were more than just a conquest to her," he growled angrily and Endymion couldn't stop the curl of his lips into a smirk. "Take the hore… she never pleased me anyway," he hissed and Endymion rushed forward but Serenity grabbed onto him, Mars and Jupiter immediately stepping into his way to prevent him from killing Diamonde then and there.
"Forgive me, did you just call my daughter a hore?" Fergal's voice was right in Diamonde's ear and the young Prince's gaze widened a bit in fear. "Out of respect that women are in the room I will not gut you right here and shove that cape down your throat," he mumbled with amusement, his eyes blazing with hatred for the man before him. "Get off of my planet before I change my mind," his low voice finished and anger mutated Diamonde's face as he took a safe step away from the dark skinned King. Guards immediately entered, grabbing roughly onto the Prince and escorting him from the room.
"I want to grow up and be like your father," Endymion mumbled quietly in awe of the Sun King and Serenity tightened her grip around him.
"You are so very close my love," her voice danced across his ear and his shoulders immediately relaxed. She was safe.
"You will all pay for this," Diamonde hissed and the doors slammed behind him. At the loud boom Serenity released Endymion and collapsed upon the floor in sobs. No one moved for a moment as what had just happened started to register.
A laugh hiccupped out of Serenity suddenly and she lifted her eyes with joy to those gathered around the table.
"Oh my thanks are as vast as the galaxies themselves," she breathed and as if a dam broke the room erupted with smiles and relief.
"You may not be thanking us long… I believe we cannot undo what we have just done to you. We have truly taken your birthright from you my darling," Queen Vinet said quietly as she knelt down beside her sobbing niece.
"Amille, why the hell did you not tell us about that proposal before we started this?!" Alexander of Mercury snapped at his twin as he stood and walked towards her. Mercury scrunched her face in anger at him then contemplated her options. She was already screwed… might as well break all protocol.
"No one informed her Senshi of this. Did you not think we would have liked to know of a plan to save her?!" She spat angrily at him and Endymion smiled at the four women in the room.
"She is right," he admitted. "We did not inform you. I was wrong for that." He said with a bow of his head and the four guardians glanced his way then bowed their head slightly in return.
"You apparently had a plan to save her. Why did you not inform us?" Alexander spat at her and Mercury punched her brother's arm. He winced and covered the blow and pushed her. She pushed back and they grabbed onto each other.
"I was going to kidnap her this evening and deliver her to Earth!" Mercury hissed and Alexander stiffened immediately as that thought dawned on him. The rest of the room's monarchs focused on the petite warrior as well and Mercury straightened her back.
"Amille… that would have been treason," Queen Vinet whispered and Mercury didn't flinch. Suddenly her brother pushed her again.
"Of all the foolish plans! You think Serenity would have been happy for her freedom if it cost you your life?!"
"Once she stepped foot on my land I would not extradite her," Endymion breathed and Fergal shook his head with a grin, amused and thankful his warriors had a plan for his beloved daughter. "Though effective it still would have caused a war."
"I am a genius. Not perfect," Mercury defended and Endymion shook his head with a grin.
"We are in desperate need of working on our communication skills," Mars snapped and Venus let out a breath.
"Stop it," Queen Amite of Mercury sighed. "There is nothing to be done now. What is done is done. We have saved the Alliance and Serenity," she breathed with relief.
"Forgive us Serenity, we could not let him have you…" Queen Martia breathed with a bowed head.
"You will always be a Princess to us," Queen Vinet added and Serenity turned her eyes to her aunt and she felt the supreme weight of her Aunt's words. Though the others were trying to comfort her, it did not lesson the severity of the situation. She opened her mouth to question but then immediately shut it. She deserved this. Quietly her head bowed in respect to those in the room as she stayed on her knees before them.
"I understand," she whispered quietly. Venus was under her immediately pulling her to her feet. Serenity grabbed onto her tightly, clinging to her cousin for dear life. Arms suddenly yanked Serenity from her cousins and she was assaulted happily with the familiar smell of her mother.
"Title or not you are still my daughter," Selenity cooed into her ear as she smoothed her daughters locks. Serenity melted into her mother's embrace and relaxed even more when she felt her father's strong arms wrap around them both. She smiled joyously.
"I have never been more happy to be disowned in my life…" She breathed in awe and Fergal smirked. "How can I apologize for all the anguish my poor decisions have caused our people? I am unworthy to be your daughter," she bowed pitifully before them with great shame and Selenity immediately pulled her into her embrace.
"Stop it. Do not say things about my precious daughter," she scolded and Serenity wept into her shoulder.
"Forgive me but I am afraid we need to prepare for War," Endymion announced and Selenity nodded against her daughter's soft hair. "Guard please remove Serenity and return her to her quarters. Guard her there," he announced and Serenity blinked. "I am afraid you are no longer privy to this council. You are not my Queen yet," he said quietly and that stung a bit. Serenity nodded painfully and moved towards the doors quickly. Endymion pressed his lips together and tried to send words of comfort towards her. Unexpectedly she stopped and turned, her frame rushing towards him. He blinked at the abrupt action when suddenly she threw herself into his arms and her lips pressed against his for all she was worth. He responded quickly, wrapping an arm around her to steady her, his other hand cupping her cheek lovingly as his lips accepted her. At that moment he didn't care who saw them… he didn't care that this was probably not the best moment to kiss her… but she was his. His bride. His intended and that trumped everything. As quickly as she descended upon him she retreated and bowed low before him.
"My King. My beloved," she whispered with reverence and Endymion faltered a bit. She glanced up at him with eyes filled with tears. "How precious a galaxy you have within your hands and how well I know you will provide for them," she said loudly to all assembled and Endymion tried hard to keep hold of his emotions. "Unlike me… how wisely you have all chosen," she announced to the assembled and Endymion moved to touch her yet stopped himself for fear if he did he would never release her. "Forgive me for my presence but what an honor it was to love you and serve you," Serenity hiccupped and slowly backed towards the door. "Thank you once more for not letting me ruin this galaxy," she whispered than turned to retreat. She was stopped suddenly when Endymion gently grabbed her arm, turning her towards him.
"You are the reason we love being in Alliance. We couldn't let your dream die," he breathed to her and she clutched to him desperately.
"You saved me," she wept and he pressed his forehead against hers.
"My bride… give me just a few minutes to clean this up will you?" He breathed against her and she beamed at him.
"A little haughty young King to assume I will have you…" she teased and his lips curled up in the first genuine smile he had smiled all year.
"It's been foretold in my favor, I think it is safe to make assumptions," he responded with mirth and she nodded lovingly at him.
"I will wait gladly for you," with another kiss she tore herself from him and left the room. He watched her leave and tried to get a grip on himself.
Silence reigned among the room after her departure.
"In your kingdom you are allowed to marry peasants right?" Queen Vinet of Venus asked pointedly towards Endymion and the young King sucked in a steadying breath.
"Yes," he responded soundly and Vinet grinned. "And if it was not so it would be by the time I returned home," he whispered then suddenly he turned grabbing onto the Senshi of Mercury. Their eyes met and he pulled her into his arms. "My thanks are as vast as the heavens," he breathed into her ear and she smiled happily pulling away with a nod.
"We are even now my King. You protected my world and I protect yours. What
you give to me for safekeeping sire will always be safe. Especially if it happens to be a legal and binding contract," she bowed before him and he couldn't even begin to convey his thanks to the woman. He turned to Queen Amite and let out a steadying breath.
"You have prevented the deaths of many people and secured great joy for me. He would have not let her go without a fight," he breathed and the Queen smiled with a bow, gently holding out his proposal to him.
"Sire, this document within is only still legal because you both had used your real names within instead of only your titles. Whoever drew this up had much emotion in them in wanting to claim you personally sire and not just your designation," Queen Amite mused and Endymion let out a shattering breath as a dopey grin curled on his features.
"She was a bit picky on that part," he breathed relieved and Queen Amite smiled.
He turned back to the rest of the galaxy's monarch and their eyes turned to him with great respect and devotion.
"Your orders my King?" Prince Alexander inquired amused.
"I'll need the Senshi and some straws… there is going to be a fight over who will carry out this next task," Endymion suddenly smirked. The four sacred warriors stepped forward eagerly, their eyes blazing into his with anticipation.
She walked silently with the two guards towards her chambers. In a matter of moments she had gone from engaged to Diamonde to being disowned to suddenly being betrothed to Endymion. Her eyes closed as she tried to take it all in yet the resounding thought that kept hitting her was…
"I'm free," she breathed out loud and a smile finally spread across her features. She was free of Diamonde.
A zap echoed on her left than on her right and she gasped as the bodies of her guards jerked and than hit the ground with a thud. Immediately she was on alert yet something slammed powerfully into her body making her hit the marble wall with force. The impact made her woozy for a second then hands grabbed at her roughly and a smack brought her back into focus. Her cheek burned from his assault.
"Did you think you could get away from me so easily?! I don't need your powers to destroy them… I can do it on my own and no old betrothment will prevent me from taking what is mine," he growled into her ear and Serenity tried to push at him but he was strong and she felt herself buckle under him.
"I will never be yours. I never loved you. Every time I was with you I was always thinking of him…" She said suddenly, her eyes filled with determination against him and she watched his eyes almost turn white as anger boiled in him.
"You will be mine forever," he bellowed and tears sprung to her eyes as that future filled her mind. She closed her eyes painfully, gripping at his fingers trying to pry them from her neck. "I will never let him touch you," he hissed, pressing his body against hers and she tried to gasp in air. "I will slowly destroy his world and than come after the Moon. They will pay for trying to take you from me," he taunted and her eyes snapped open and he blinked seeing the once blue orbs flash gold.
"Never," she choked out and in an instant she heard the explosion as his frame was thrown from her, power still radiating from her hands and her frame collapsed to the floor.
"Serenity!" She heard Mars in the back of her head but she ignored it as she took in the image before her. His body was convulsing as the power tore through him and she felt like she couldn't breath. She had finally fought back… "Leave you alone for five minutes," Mars snapped than Serenity yanked away as his frame erupted into flames. She scurried towards the wall, closing her eyes tightly as his image burned into her mind. Her body's flight reflex kicked in as she tried to get to her feet. She heard a slice and a sickening plop and she let out a small cry. If she hadn't killed him, she knew for certain Venus and Mars just had. Fingers grabbed at her and she pushed at them violently.
"No Serenity! No!" Venus breathed, grabbing onto her and Serenity gasped, opening her eyes and quickly retracting her power.
"Minet…" She cried out than let out a cry. "I… I…" She stuttered and Minet nodded, quickly trying to throw comfort her cousin's way.
"It's ok. It's ok. It's over… you are ok," she breathed and tears streamed from her beloved cousins face. Her body was shaking all over and Venus felt panic come to her system. She just wanted to take her into her arms and hold her forever… protect her from everything.
"I couldn't let him touch me anymore…" She gasped out and Venus nodded, tears rolling down her cheeks.
"You did nothing wrong. Nothing. I am so sorry… so sorry I didn't protect you," she wept and Serenity shook her head.
"I'm so sorry I didn't let you," she cried and Venus yanked her cousin into her arms, rocking with her trying to give them both what little comfort she had.
"Serenity," a voice said near her and Mars gently took her dear Princess's face and turned her towards her. "We did this. We were sent to do this. That is the story we are sticking with," she hissed and Serenity could only stare at her, shock still traveling through her. "But again… this is a reason why you should not use your powers," Mars huffed at her and Serenity let out a small laugh, wiping at her tears.
"I enjoyed doing it," she confessed and Mars smirked at her, gently leaning forward to kiss her forehead.
"I enjoyed watching you do it. Come. Let's go tell your future husband," she breathed pulling both the women to their feet.
"Maybe he will think it a wedding gift," Venus smirked and Serenity glanced behind her at the charred remains of Diamonde. Mars pulled her forward and Serenity gulped.
"I only regret I did not do it sooner," she breathed quietly and the two warriors glanced at each other and supported their Princess down the hall. She was fine for a few minutes then realization of what had just occurred caught up with her. Venus felt Serenity's body jerk from her but the two warriors held strong to her. "What have I done?" The small ex-princess spat and Venus exchanged a look with her second in command.
"I think she may be going into shock," Venus mumbled suddenly and Mars stilled before the marble doors that led to the Moon's throne room. They both stopped and looked at their Princess. "Sere… Sere I need you to breath," Venus spat as Mars checked her pulse. She let out a Martian curse and Venus grabbed onto Serenity's head forcing her blue eyes to focus on hers. "Breathe. Breathe with me Sere… Breathe," she commanded and slowly the Princess began to do as she ordered.
"Dead… he's dead," she hissed and Venus shook her head.
"Breathe. Just breathe," she cooed and Serenity sucked in a deep breath. Her skin felt as if a million needles were stabbing it all at once.
"Mercury is inside," Mars hissed than pushed open the marble doors, not caring what she might be disturbing within. Venus moved wrapping an arm under her Princess and pulling her securely into her arms.
"Focus on my heartbeat Sere… you will be in Endymion's arms in just a moment," she whispered and they slowly drug the Princess inside.
Three sets of eyes turned to the disturbance. Endymion froze as he watched Mercury and Jupiter silently rush across the room to their Princess. She was hyperventilating. His eyes caught the Queen of the Moon's beside him and he nodded. She rushed out of view of the screen and Endymion caught Mars nod. He turned back to the viewscreen indifferently.
"I suggest you leave as soon as possible Prince," he demanded and Prince Sapphire bowed his head angrily. "My condolences for your loss," Endymion snipped and Sapphire's eyes narrowed. With a push of a button he ended the transmission. Their master plan had gone up in smoke and the loss of Diamonde was staggering. Diamonde had fallen hard for the Princess… too hard in Sapphire's opinion and honestly he was not surprised it ended this way. It still angered him. One day he would get revenge. But for now he would bide his time and save his people. Even he was not foolish enough to think he would survive against all of them.
"On screen. Get me the security footage from wherever she was," Endymion demanded to the man beside him and Artemis nodded turning towards the console. He rushed towards the small cluster of people, his hand skillfully undoing his cape to help him move faster.
She was curled into her father's arms resting silently, her body still shaking a bit.
"Sire," Artemis called and Endymion and Selenity turned to the screen. It played quietly before them of Diamonde attacking Serenity's guards and than her herself.
"Sire, we have done as you commanded," Mars breathed and he turned to look at her with narrowed eyes as the video displayed Serenity blowing Diamonde across the room. "Well…" Mars spat and glanced away ashamed.
"This is why I sent two of you, to prevent her from doing this and having to live with the scars," he growled and gently bent down beside his bride. "My love…" He breathed and her eyes flickered open to him.
"Endy… I am guilty. I take my punishment willingly," she whispered leaning into her father's embrace and the King of the Sun smirked a bit, gently kissing her forehead.
"Oh my darling, how much like me you are," he hissed and she smirked a bit, her lids trying to close once more.
"You are getting married tomorrow," Endymion whispered and Serenity's eyebrows rose as her eyes slowly opened. "That is your punishment," he hissed than let out a breath.
"You are not mad? I started a war," she whispered and he shook his head, gently reaching forward to push a strand of her hair out of her stunning eyes.
"I am only mad you got to do it and not me," he breathed and she pushed forward
towards him. Immediately he pulled her into his embrace, kneeling before them as his arms encircled her securely.
"It is all over?" She asked quietly, tears filling her eyes and he heard the shake in her voice.
"None of this should have started," he snapped at her and she winced. "But yes, it is all over. Nemesis is returning to its quadrant and if it approaches us ever we shall see the strength of our New Alliance in effect," he mumbled into her shoulder and she clutched to him.
"Why would you do this?" She whispered. "It was my cross to bare… you saved the Alliance I could have just been left to my fate." Gently he pulled her back, her eyes meeting his and he smiled a bit at her.
"Serenity my love… I know this information has been kept from you your entire life but you are going to have to accept that I and I alone am your fate."
She broke.
"Endy…" She wept, her fingers clasping onto him almost painfully but he didn't care. He couldn't seem to hold her close enough, to protect her enough. As he glanced around the small group gathered around he could see on their faces they felt the same way. They all looked at her painfully, longing to take away her pain and anguish. "I do not even know who I am anymore… what has become of me," she wept bitterly, her face scrunched by pain and sorrow.
"I know who you are my love…" He breathed into her ear. "I will happily remind you," he attempted to wash comfort over her but she rejected it.
"I tried to end it… but he caught me. I am so sorry. Please know I meant none of this, I would have never…" Her words caught in her throat and he pulled back to look at her. Confusion spread across his face as he tried to comprehend her words. Jupiter gasped to his left and Mars rushed forward angrily but Fergal grabbed onto her, holding onto her as that news registered on all of them.
"Tried to end…" He repeated than his eyes widened and he pushed her back gently to inspect her thoroughly. She closed her eyes painfully not wanting him to see the shambles Diamonde had made of her. Her eyes popped open when she felt magic travel through her. It felt warm and tingly and it took her a moment to realize he was healing her… removing each bruise and attempting she was sure to remove each memory. She shook her head.
"Please stop. I should not even be here. I do not deserve your kindness," she choked out and tried to pull from him but he wouldn't let her. He remained silent until he was finished healing her than he let out a deep breath.
"How did this happen?" He whispered as he settled on the ground with her, not letting her move an inch away from him.
"You mean how did I single handedly attempt to destroy my own galaxy?" She asked, hatred for herself emanating from her heart.
"If you wish to phrase it that way…" He breathed, gently pushing a strand of hair away from her face. Serenity pressed her lips together as the last few months played out before her in her mind. Diamonde had been kind and charming. He had listened to her and tried to form a connection with her and she had been vulnerable… she had confessed her heartache to him. She winced as she revealed that weakness. Endymion only pressed a kiss to her cheek.
"Forgive me," he breathed and she let out a sad laugh.
"Forgive you for doing what you had only been foretold to do?" She hissed and he shook his head.
"How did you not know I was crazy for you?" He asked with a shake of his head. "The entire galaxy knew. Could you have been in that much denial to not see how I followed you… how I just needed to touch you," he breathed heavily across her neck and she closed her eyes, a sigh leaving her lips.
"I have no defense… I had convinced myself you had yet your words with Osric…" She shuddered. "It was the first moment I felt that perhaps it had all been a trick. That I had fallen for my own game…"
"I was a fool to not tell you then and there. To tell you I had fallen in love with you and only you and in spite of some dumb prophecy," he whispered, lifting her chin so their eyes met.
"Will you still have me? Even though I have nothing… No crown, no power…" She breathed, and he could tell she was trying to figure out what her identity would now be without that.
"You are still quite beautiful though," he snarked and Serenity let out a laugh.
"I can fix that if you wish," she snapped back and he smiled lovingly at her.
"I feel you have been punished enough," he breathed than gently kissed her forehead. "Besides, it was my idea to strip you of your title and powers. You only have me to blame," he confessed and she nodded. "Although if Senshi Mercury would have informed me of her plans I may have not had to strip you of your crown…" Endymion snapped, his eyes glaring at the aquatic warrior over Serenity's shoulder.
"Again, perhaps if you had informed us sire," Mercury responded sturdily and he narrowed his eyes at her than turned back to his bride as she turned his gaze towards her.
"I deserved it. You saved me. I would rather be a peasant the rest of my days than be a slave to Diamonde," she shivered and Endymion held his breath for a moment than smirked and pulled her to her feet. The others stood as well around them, not at all ashamed they had been intruding on their Prince and Princess private moment.
"Well… I was kind of hoping you would only be a peasant for a day or so," he mumbled and Serenity raised an eyebrow at him as he slowly removed his ring from her finger. "On Earth I can marry whomever I wish and I have dreamed of making you Queen there for a very long while…" He said gently holding out the ring before her eyes.
"I have been told I have bad judgment…" She breathed and he smirked.
"That's all right… I've been told I am quite persuasive," he snickered and she smiled hopefully at him. He glanced around the room and than back at her. "I hear they planned a big wedding for tomorrow yet the groom seems to have skipped out permanently."
"What are you thinking my King?" She questioned and he smiled at her kissing her knuckles lovingly.
"I do not think it is just I who is thinking it…" He grinned than glanced at the glowing faces around them and Serenity followed his gaze. She let out a laugh and quickly buried her face in his shoulder.
"Technically… you are nothing to us but, we sort of have a soft spot for you," Artemis mumbled with a content sigh and Lunar smiled happily, tear tracks stained down her face.
"I've made some décor arrangements and it will be a stunning Earth Wedding," Lunar breathed happily.
"I think bridesmaids are in order," Venus snapped and Mercury chimed in agreement.
"Afraid though that the bride cannot see the groom before the wedding. Forgive us my King but we have to make this peasant good enough for you," Jupiter grinned gently pulling Serenity from his arms.
"I'm afraid Jupiter I will be working the rest of my life to make this King good enough for her," he mumbled and Serenity smiled sadly than rushed forward and pressed her lips to his. He responded eagerly, holding her tightly. When they separated she smiled.
"I have kept my promise and will for eternity my King. To love you and only you the rest of my days…" She breathed across his cheek and Endymion closed his eyes in happiness.
"I promise to love you and only you for all Eternity Seren…" He whispered into her ear and she melted, having waited her whole life to hear those words.
It seemed like it was the first time he had sat and stopped for the last few days.
"Incoming call from Earth sire," Jedite breathed and Endymion pressed the button before him and a man with sandy blonde hair and light blue eyes appeared before him.
"Mosk," Endymion greeted his advisor and the man bowed respectfully. When his father was killed Osric had run off far away into the mountains much to Endymion's delight. Mosk had been one of his servants for years, keeping him on top of things and reminding him what was needed to be done. He transitioned smoothly as Endymion's head advisor and Endymion had never been more thankful.
"Sire, I hope you have news that I should be expecting a Queen in the near future," he smiled and Endymion felt his tiers curl up.
"As a matter of fact… you shall. We only started a small war but we cleaned it up quickly," he breathed with a slight chuckle.
"Always good to hear Sire," Mosk smirked than started sending files his way. "Quick signatures on these documents sire and I wanted to update you that your new quarters have finally been completed. Just in time for your new Bride," he smiled and Endymion let out a breath. Mosk had been determined to move him into the King's wing where his mother and father once resided. Yet, in order to make that happen he practically ripped it all out and re-did it just to erase the memories of what once was there.
"I am sure it is amazing. Will you send word throughout the Kingdoms about their new Queen?" He breathed and Mosk nodded taking notes.
"According to tradition Moon weddings seem to last three days. I shall set up the Earth Ceremony for next week once you return. I feel this Kingdom will be so very excited to celebrate with you on this joyous occasion," Mosk smiled and Endymion grinned. "It has not hit you yet has it sire?"
"No. I'm still trying to adjust… It has been an intense day," he confessed and Mosk grinned.
"Yet, I am sure you both handled it with excellence," he crooned and Endymion pressed his lips together thoughtfully.
"She blew her ex-fiancé to shreds. Her power is staggering," he mused quietly and Mosk took a breath.
"Hm… you shouldn't get on her bad side then," he mumbled and Endymion smirked.
"Indeed not," he grinned than moved to push the end button and stilled. "Mosk… I think she likes roses. Will you have some planted outside our quarters?" He asked and Mosk bowed.
"It would be my honor. Congratulations my King. I look forward to serving you both very soon," he breathed and Endymion nodded.
"Thank you Mosk."
"Shall I pinch you sire?" Kunzite smirked and the young King let out a breath.
"Pinching is for girls… a good punch will work best," Nephlite commented with a grin and Endymion glanced at his four dear friends.
"They elected me the head of their Alliance," he mumbled, his voice heavy with the weight of that responsibility and Jedite chuckled.
"It is kind of funny," he mused and Endymion nodded.
"I do not know the first thing about running an Alliance…" He confessed and Nephlite smirked a bit.
"I know someone who might be able to help you. She has years of experience and is currently unemployed," he joked and Endymion shook his head with a laugh.
"I appreciated that your first action as head of the New Alliance was to cripple a planet that we have wanted to destroy for centuries," Kunzite added with a small head bow of appreciation and Endymion nodded, his frame finally letting his exhaustion show.
"But most important sire… You claimed the bunny," Zoycite smirked and Endymion let out a chuckle. Indeed he had.
"I'd say it was a very successful day," Jedite smirked.
"Have you had a chance to see them?" Endymion inquired of his men and they all just smiled at him.
"Currently your highness their affection is with their Princess as it should be. They have been through a very difficult year with her," Jedite breathed with a small bow.
"They are worth the wait," Nephlite smiled and Endymion nodded.
"I am happy for you," Endymion said honestly and Kunzite nodded.
"Not as happy as we are for you Sire," he breathed and all four of them bowed their head respectfully before him. He was humbled by their devotion and ecstatic about their future.
"Quick question if I may," Jedite suddenly spoke up and Endymion raised an eyebrow amused at him. "Would marriage be out of the question?" He asked casually and Endymion let out a chuckle as Jedite looked at his brothers and they all looked back at their King.
"A valid question my Lord," Kunzite mused and Endymion grasped onto Jedite's shoulder supportively.
"I feel my future wife has that decision in her hand… but if she asks my opinion it will be a resounding yes," he smiled and Jedite grinned at him.
"Princess Marlina procured approval for me to marry Reilie," Jedite breathed suddenly and Endymion looked at him surprised. "Said she could think of no greater gift she could give her sister," he breathed, his voice choking suddenly and Endymion pulled his dear friend into his arms.
"Indeed. No greater gift," he breathed and Jedite choked back a sob and composed himself. It wasn't about him right now but soon… very soon it would be.