NEW CHAPTER
Title: The Conquest
Author's Note:
Well, this chapter and the next are 10 years in the making…
If you have been a long time fan and have been waiting for this for years I deeply apologize. Life got crazy for a bit didn't it?
If it has been awhile since you have read this, please go back and read it again. If you'd like you can just start at Chapter 20 cause that is when most the changes started occurring from the original. It is much much better now.
This chapter contains the ending of this story and the next will be the epilogue.
I am done for now with this my lovelies. Thank you for being a fan and thank you for reading. 3
-=-
She shifted sleepily among the silken sheets. The feel against her skin causing a smile to come to her lips of contentment as she lazily blew a strand of her blonde hair from her face. Her fingers slipped through the sheets towards her beloved yet came up empty. Slowly her eyes blinked open and spied the empty space her husband normally lay. She shifted, pulling the sheets up against her body as she sat, her eyes scanning the bedroom. Confusion swept her features. Where was he?
She slipped easily from the bed and pulled a silk robe around her form, un-tucking her long strands and tying them messily in a knot at her neck. Silently she padded across the floor and explored once again her new quarters. They had been on Earth now for two days. It was a swirl of activity as they prepared for her coronation in two days. This was her new home. A warm feeling filled her heart and she peeked through the open door to the parlor to see the frame she was searching for. He was bending over a desk, a giant compu screen before him with documents displayed across it.
She held in her sigh of happiness seeing what he was working on.
"I could term this as abandonment…" her soft voice filled the air and Endymion felt his lips curl upwards and he turned to see his bride walking slowly towards him. "And on our honeymoon," she clucked her tongue at him and he let out a soft breath being caught.
"Forgive me my love?" Endymion inquired sweetly as she stepped before him, her fingers going to his robe and undoing the tie. "I am afraid I've been having trouble with this new Alliance… they are rather needy. How on Earth did you ever keep them all happy?" he grumbled glancing over his shoulder at the screen and Serenity smiled guiltily as she slid her hands around his bare waist.
"Many years of practice my love," she whispered pressing against him and he looked down at her accusingly. "But that is no excuse to leave your bride unattended…" His face softened and he pulled her into his arms, lifting her off her feet and turning her to sit her upon his desk. He pushed documents away and leaned into her, his lips attaching to her neck and nibbling up her fair skin.
"How awful of me," his deep voice filled her ears and she melted against him.
"My love you never have to apologize for putting our people before me, I would be angry at you if you did not," her voice wafted over his ears and he stilled his actions to lift his head. His eyes locked on hers and his fingers moved to quickly cup her face.
"Yes, but this is still our honeymoon and while I am for our people… I am also for you," his lips dove and captured her, his hand slipping down around her waist to pull her up against him. Her mouth opened in a surprised moan and he invaded deepening the kiss. Her hands pulled at his robe, yanking it off his shoulders and he leaned her forward, the compu screen instantly vanishing.
Her cerulean eyes studied the schematics before her critically. The Earthen Generals had been nothing but accommodating upon their arrival. Her lip quirked up a bit on one side at that thought but then she was quickly reminded how grateful she was for their help. It had been obvious they had been planning on their involvement for some time. They had been ready to make Serenity their Queen and even though a year had delayed the process their set up system was ready to be put in place the moment she stepped upon her new soil. She could never be more thankful for that.
"So, what is it like?" A voice questioned suddenly into the air and Senshi Venus turned to spy her warriors who had been studying Earth's systems and territories.
"Marriage?" Senshi Mars questioned with a raised eyebrow and Jupiter smirked at her.
"Is it as great as Serenity makes it out to be?" Jupiter questioned and a small smile came on Mars lips. She flicked her eyes to her leader and Venus shrugged slightly.
"I doubt anything could be as great as Serenity makes it look," Venus said with a slight grin and Mercury let out a content sigh. It had been an emotional week. One moment they were losing her… the next she was the Queen of Earth and they were all moving with her.
"How are her nightmares?" Mars questioned quietly and Venus glanced out the window to the lush green gardens below. This world had so many colors… sometimes it was a bit overwhelming.
"Nothing a loving King cannot help fix," Venus whispered. The door to their planning room opened suddenly and the four women stood to attention.
"Queen Serenity," a voice announced and Serenity cast a small smirk at the servant. Lunar was on her heels and Serenity let out a breath seeing them.
"Forgive me for not coming sooner. I have been pre-occupied," she confessed, a small guilty blush on her cheeks and her four closest friends and warriors only smirked at her.
"So have we. This realm is quite different than the Moon. Lots of policies and procedures but they have been very accommodating to us aliens," Venus said walking towards her and Serenity let out a relieved breath.
"General Kunzite said you had something you wanted to show me," she smiled as Venus took her hands in greeting and the young Queen squeezed them back.
"This was a lady in Endymion's court," Mercury began as a face materialized on a crystal compu screen. "Her family is very wealthy, she's the only child. This is the woman his highness had been secretly shackled too," she mused pressing her lips together. Serenity studied the image, dark auburn hair, vibrant green eyes, pale flawless skin…
"She isn't terrible looking," she confessed quietly and Venus smirked.
"He never touched her. Couldn't stand her," Venus informed and Serenity smirked at bit a her, thankful her guard knew her so well. "She was determined though and a few villagers have identified her as one of the culprits in spreading some nasty rumors about you," Venus muttered annoyed and Serenity let out a breath.
"You cannot really blame her can you?" Serenity asked softly and Venus's eyes narrowed.
"Yes. I can," she snapped and the image vanished. "She's on our high alert list. She's harmless but a desperate woman should never be underestimated," Venus mused and Serenity nodded.
"I think we should start training again," Serenity announced suddenly and Mars quirked an eyebrow up at her.
"Eight super natural guardians and a mystical husband not enough to protect you?" The fiery warrior questioned and Serenity smirked a bit at her.
"I'm human now, I think it wise to understand my limitations," Serenity breathed and Venus unsheathed her sword.
"This can kill you," Venus announced and Serenity glanced at her tolerantly.
"The King has given us instruction to not allow you to train until he has deemed you ready," Mercury suddenly spoke up and Serenity let out a laugh. When no one joined in with her, the smile on her lips fell.
"Oh you are serious," Serenity muttered and Venus grinned a bit at her.
"Despite that, General Kunzite and General Jedite have created a special training ground for you," Mars suddenly added and Serenity looked at them skeptically. "It is to help you train your magic. I believe they did it so you will not attack your husband again," Mars said with a smile and Serenity narrowed her eyes slightly.
"He deserved that," she spat and the doors opened once more and the four women bowed respectfully.
"King Endymion," the servant announced and Serenity turned to him, her eyes still narrowed.
"My darling, you have no right to command my warriors in regards to me," she snapped in greeting and he walked to her.
"I am King, my rank is higher. I have every right since they were given to me as part of your dowry agreement that you yourself drew up," he said calmly, gently kissing her forehead and she huffed at him. He spied the image on the screen and he hit a button making it vanish. "That woman should be on a no admittance list," he growled and Venus nodded quickly motioning to Mercury who began typing on the compu screen. His arm wrapped around his wife's waist and he pulled her easily against his side. "My love are you finished?" He questioned.
"Certainly not with you," she hissed and his lips curled up in a grin as he gently cupped her face.
"Aw, careful my love… you look a bit crown envious," he teased turning her towards the door and the four women heard the small Queen gasp. Mercury smirked at Mars and Jupiter tried to hold in her snicker.
She silently observed with diligence as Mosk and Lunar discussed the details of the ceremony for the next day. A small smile curled up on her lips as they outlined the traditions of Earth and how she was about to embrace them.
"Excuse me my Queen," a voice said as the throne room door opened. She turned easily and her eyes suddenly widened. "But you have some visitors," General Kunzite finished with a smile and Serenity's face broke into a wide smile as she walked eagerly towards her new guests.
"My darlings," she cooed happily seeing the five Sun people before her.
"Princess," the first spoke with happiness. "I mean my Queen," his voice broke as tears of joy overtook him.
"Words cannot express how complete we feel to have you here," another woman said beside them and Serenity reached out and clasped onto their hands, the five gently putting their hands on top of one anothers to touch her.
"Each one of us represents a region of your kingdom here on Earth. When we heard the news we had to come see you," another spoke and Serenity nodded quickly.
"My husband has even greater news for us," she said, her voice cracking a bit. "The rest of our people will be traveling here. He has invited us all to make one home together," she breathed and sighs and outbreaks of happiness hit the five at once. "How blessed we are to be under such a great King. I adore him with everything in me and he loves us with everything in him," Serenity continued, her voice choking with emotion and they squeezed her hand with encouragement.
"We are so excited to see you crowned tomorrow," another spoke. "Would per chance… King Fergal be in attendance?" He asked quietly with hope and Serenity's smile widened broadly.
"I am his favorite daughter. I am sure he would not miss it for the galaxy," she grinned and her heart almost burst with happiness at the joy on their faces.
He let out a breath as Mosk pinned the last ceremonial medal to his outfit.
"Hm, that looks like a challenge to take off," a female voice filled his quarters and a smile came easily to Endymion's lips. "But I do love a good challenge," she continued as Mosk smiled and headed towards the door. Endymion turned and his breath caught in his throat.
"Seren," he breathed and she smiled lovingly at him.
"Char modeled it after your mothers coronation gown," Serenity said with a soft smile. "I wish I could have met her," she breathed and Endymion closed the gap between them. Gently his fingers ran along her jaw as he took her into his arms.
"She would have loved you," he grinned and she smiled. "She use to tease me about you," he smirked, memories coming back to him. "Told me I would need to be a man of charm and love to ever possess such a woman… and her not kill me," he chuckled and Serenity laughed.
"How wise your mother," she cooed and he captured her lips greedily with his own. He pulled her against him, the kiss slowly breaking for him to press his forehead against her own.
"I ache when you are not near me," he confessed quietly and Serenity clung to him. "Does that ever go away?" He chuckled and Serenity shook her head.
"I hope not," she smiled claiming his lips once more. "This was my unattainable dream… standing here with you on this world," she confessed quietly and Endymion watched as her eyes began to water. "You are the first thing I ever wanted for myself," she confessed her voice lowering. "Am I selfish for wanting you more than anything else?" She asked, her voice low and he strained to hear her words. When he digested them his hands gripped tighter to her and she held on, pressing against him. He sucked in a shaky breath, kissing her forehead with adoration.
"There was no other besides you," he confessed. "If I couldn't have you, I was going to have no one," he breathed and her frame trembled a bit in his arms.
"You could not be so selfish to not produce an heir," Serenity said quickly stopping him and he took her face into his hands, moving her eyes to meet his.
"There is no me… no heir without you Serenity," he affirmed and tears swam heavily in her eyes. "I love you and I will love you with every breath in me," he said strongly and a tear slid down her cheek as her heart swelled with his love. "I only wish I could love you for four hundred years or more than one lifetime," he sighed and she dove forward capturing his lips as their forms leaned into one another.
"A hem," a voice said near the door yet the two did not stop their kiss and Mosk grinned a bit. A trumpet went off down the hall and Endymion pulled away reluctantly. "I did try and warn you," Mosk breathed and the King of Earth smirked glancing down at his bride. Quickly he wiped her tears and stole another kiss.
"I cannot wait to show my world the woman I admire most in this galaxy and the only one I would ever trust them with," he grinned turning her towards the door.
"Still, after all I have done?" She questioned, her voice cracking and he stilled his steps. Her head lowered in shame a bit and he lifted it quickly.
"One mistake does not tarnish you. One mistake that could technically be my fault," he said quickly and she nodded.
"It was," she admitted with a breath and he smirked at her.
"My Queen, I do not wish to drag you both out of here in front of your waiting subjects," Venus suddenly stated as she stood before them. The two looked at her tolerantly. "But I will," she grinned and Serenity let out a breath.
"Come my Queen," Endymion smirked kissing her hand lovingly. "My kingdom has no clue you tried to marry yourself off to a complete psychopath before me so they are quite eager to make you their Queen," he teased and Serenity's face scrunched in anger.
"Endymion," she snapped as he dragged her out towards the main ballroom. Venus smirked and turned on her heel, giving a nod to Mosk as she followed the Monarch out.
"The Queen of Earth, Serenity Lehaire," a loud Harold announced and she sucked in a deep breath. The applause filled her ears and for a moment the noise completely surrounded her. Slowly she lifted her head, the weight of her crown before her as the priest bowed to her. She turned, letting out a breath as she stood before her new people.
She bowed her head once to them and they bowed as one in return. She lifted her hand and Endymion took it gracefully, bringing it to his lips for a chaste kiss. She smiled at him and he returned her grin as the people applauded once more.
She let out a deep breath and smoothed the front of her plum gown once more. Excitement filled her as she stepped once more into the gilded palace of Earth. She felt home here and tonight would be her chance to make this her real home. He must have married her for land or peace… it was a Prince's duty. But just because he married her does not mean he loves her and she could still warm his bed…
A smirk curled on Beryl's lips as she walked easily among the other invited guests to the Queen's new coronation. With the rumors she had started the Prince would soon drop the Queen's dead weight. Already suspicion had began to fester around her and it had not taken much. She imagined even Duucan would have been proud of her little undertaking to destroy the new Queen from without.
She sucked in a deep breath, her eyes scanning the room for her love. He just had to see… had to be reminded… Her eyes caught a glittering form in gold and white and her teeth clenched. That alien had to see too. Had to see she was Endymion's second choice.
His gaze traveled the massive ballroom and his lips curled up in a smirk. He liked Earth.
"Of course you would father," his daughter's voice filled his ears and he smiled turning to the vision in white and gold before him.
"Are we the first aliens to be invited into this realm's court?" Fergal questioned with glee and Serenity smirked at him.
"It helps we look like Earthlings," Serenity mused glancing at the glittering ballroom before them filled with people dancing and socializing.
"That must be why your mother and some of the other monarchs did not attend," Fergal mused as his daughter slinked her arm into his.
"Duucan was hated by Earth's people but still tainted by him… I am afraid we must be slow in introducing the galaxy to them," Serenity admitted a bit sadly and Fergal nodded.
"You cannot move a mountain in a day my dear," he mused and she nodded when suddenly her eyes settled on someone. "Someone you know?" Fergal questioned as a woman walked purposefully towards them. "She does not seem to be a fan," Fergal mused reading the vibe off the elaborately dressed woman in plum as she suddenly stopped before them. She gave a curt bow of her head in respect and Fergal glanced at her with amusement.
"Lady Beryl," Serenity greeted and the woman's eyes widened in pleasure at the recognition.
"How delighted I am you know me Princess," Beryl said with a condescending sneer. "Though I imagine a past lover is one you should look out for," Beryl said with a sigh and Serenity raised an eyebrow at her with amusement.
"A past lover of what?" Fergal questioned and Beryl bowed her head to the king.
"Of King Endymion's. I was his first betrothed," she said with splendor, the knowledge of that lightening her heart.
"And yet I am his Queen," Serenity mused thoughtfully with a soft smile that turned Beryl's moment into a twisted frown upon her face.
"You cannot fault a great King for marrying for land and for peace," Beryl snapped and Fergal out right laughed at her. Serenity dug her fingers into her fathers arm as Beryl looked with horror at the Sun King.
"What a cute imagination you have Beryl," Fergal smirked and the woman seemed to be turning green. "How lucky you are you are not on my world young woman as words like that would be considered treason and punishable by death," Fergal said with amusement.
"Perhaps barbarianism like that is why your world no longer exists," Beryl snapped and Fergal's amusement immediately disappeared. He moved forward and Serenity held him back, her face shifting into anger as well at the insolent woman's statement.
"My love," Endymion's voice filled her ears and Serenity let out a breath,
calming herself. Beryl's eyes widened in happiness at his presence then suddenly her frame deflated as she watched him easily pull his new bride into his arms. His actions were possessive and intimate and she gulped as he kissed her forehead with tenderness.
"My love, Lady Beryl was just telling us all about you," Serenity breathed and Endymion's gaze turned to the woman in question.
"And what is it you would know about me that my beloved of two years would not?" Endymion questioned and Beryl felt panic rise within her. She opened her mouth to respond but suddenly felt a hand grab roughly onto her arm.
"Two years?" She stuttered out and Serenity glanced up at her husband with a loving smile. The arm yanked and Beryl fought against it, anger suddenly coming to her.
"You were with an alien for two years?" She demanded quietly.
"You forget your place woman. Allow me to remind you," a heated voice said suddenly in Beryl's ears and she flinched. "That before you is your King and his bride, your Queen," he breathed and Beryl closed her eyes and bowed messily.
"People who think as others as aliens or inferior based upon where they are from
are not welcome here. Do not ever enter our presence again," Endymion commanded and Beryl shuddered. Kunzite pulled turning the woman away from them when another hand grabbed her other arm. She glanced up to the stunning woman with blonde hair holding her and fear shot through her as the two marched her towards the door. She glanced over her shoulder back to her beloved and her heart broke once more as he pulled that alien lovingly into his arms, his lips kissing her forehead with affection as her hands grasped onto him.
"Farewell," Fergal grinned catching her eye and Beryl's face scrunched in anger and embarrassment as people started to notice her escort out. "Horrid woman," Fergal mused and Endymion smirked.
"Duucan's choice of bride for me," he mused, his arm wrapped securely around his bride and Fergal smirked.
"He really hated you didn't he?" Fergal noticed and Endymion let out a chuckle.
"That indeed he did," he admitted and Serenity smiled lovingly up at him. She caught Mosk motioning for her and she leaned up, kissing her husbands lips sweetly.
"Excuse me darling," she breathed slipping from his grasp and Endymion let out a breath, taking a step closer to his father-in-law. The two men stood in silence for a moment and Fergal smiled.
"I look forward to the day you are a father Endymion," Fergal began and Endymion's lips curled up in a grin.
"That eager to be a grandfather? We've only been married a week," Endymion reminded him and Fergal shook his head with a soft sigh.
"No. Take your time," Fergal mused. "I just look forward to it for in that moment when you hold your little girl and you immediately begin to pray and wish for all of her dreams to come true… you will know what I feel like in this moment in having you for my daughter," Fergal breathed and for a moment Endymion stopped breathing. Slowly he turned his gaze to the man before him and he felt as if his heart was going to leap into his throat. "You are the answer to ever prayer and wish I ever had for her," Fergal repeated and Endymion reached out a hand to him. Fergal clasped it firmly, his other arm grabbing onto his arm. "I love you my son," the King of the Sun finished and Endymion sucked in a shattering breath.
"Father," the Earthen King breathed and Fergal grinned pulling the younger man into his arms, Endymion wrapping an arm around him tightly.
"Daddy," Serenity's voice hissed suddenly yet the two men did not break apart. "I was gone for a minute and you reduce my husband to a puddle?" She snapped and Endymion let out a breath.
"My apologies," Fergal breathed with a smile to his daughter. "We should probably let go," Fergal mused and Endymion shook his head, not releasing his hold on his father-in-law.
"No," Endymion spat and Fergal smiled happily letting the young Prince enjoy this hug for he had a feeling it may have been the first fatherly one he had truly gotten. After another minute the King of Earth released him and Fergal grinned, cupping his son's neck affectionately. "I shall be leaving soon my children but I hope I have a standing invitation to visit often?" He questioned with a smile and Endymion nodded, a grin on his lips.
"Indeed you do Father," he breathed out and Serenity smiled lovingly at them, her fingers lacing through her beloveds and squeezing with affection.
She pushed harder, her surge of adrenaline helping her ignore the rough terrain on her thin shoes and the trees and bushes that assaulted her frame as she raced through them. Finally she reached a clearing and her face scrunched with anger as she pulled to a stop. The stings and scrapes she had acquired on her run started to burn into her flesh and her nails dug into her skirt as a scream ripped from her throat. It was raw and full of hatred. It burned but she did it again, her frame buckling as she let out all of her pain and anguish.
It was true…
He was never hers. He would never be hers.
Her frame hit the hard Earth and the tears finally came as she pounded the beloved ground he so loved. She hated her. Hated him. Hated his entire court. Hated this entire planet… She cried out, angrily glaring at the Moon above her. Curse them all.
"Child…"
Beryl let out a scream, her body jerking in fright as the unexpected voice hit her ears. Her wild green eyes searched desperately around her.
"Why are you crying?" The hollow voice asked again and Beryl kept trying to find the source. Had she been followed out here? Where was she? It just looked like woods. She stilled when she spotted a small cave opening.
"Hello?" Beryl's voice trembled out.
"Hello," the voice answered back and Beryl had to stop breathing for a moment. Was the voice coming from the cave?
"Who's there?" She asked, trying to muster any dignity she had left as her father's daughter, as one of the highest sought after ladies of the court before that bitch from the Moon stole everything she loved.
"I am afraid you are the one on my land child… who are you?"
"I am? I'm sorry… I was just running and…" Beryl stilled. She was running, running away from her crushed dreams and she felt the torrent of emotions roll into her all at once when suddenly she felt a rush of wind and all the air left her lungs. Before her was set of bright red eyes, a pale face and deep purple hair.
"What anger you have child," the voice cooed and Beryl's eyes widened in fear. "Who dare hurt you?" The woman cooed, her fingers stretching out to gently caress Beryl's smooth skin. The interaction was like ice and Beryl gasped. "My name is Metallia… if you give me your anger I can give you your revenge," she whispered, her eyes alive with promises and Beryl could only stand frozen before her. Her words settled on her and seemed to seep into her very being. Revenge? Revenge… that is what she needed. She needed, no… was desperate for revenge.
"Anything you need," Beryl breathed.
...
...
[One year Later]
Roses. She loved them. When he had brought her to her new home he had shared them with her and her passion for them had sparked. He planted more for her enjoyment. There was not a window she could look out of and not see them. A warm feeling flitted into her heart as love for him overtook her. It had been the best year of her life being his wife. Earth was her home and she loved it as much as she loved the Moon. Her people were here… her life was here and she would not change a bit of it.
"Your highness," the two soft-spoken words brought Serenity out of her revere and immediately the stress and anxiousness crashed once more upon her frame. She turned with hopeful eyes to her most intelligent warrior. Yet the frown etched in Mercury's forehead told her the answer to her question before she had to ask. With a breath she turned away and stared once more out at the colorful world before her. She could feel her heart breaking once more. "We could run another test. Perhaps this one was compromised," Mercury offered as she walked towards her Queen.
"It is not that complicated of a test Mercury. I am either with child or not and apparently for the tenth time I am not," The words betrayed the pain that carried with such a declaration. Serenity gulped, trying to subdue the pain and confusion that always flooded through her. Why was she unable to get pregnant? It was not for lack of trying.
"The time is just not right my darling. You are both so young, give yourself some time," the soothing voice of her mother filled the room and Serenity immediately turned and sought comfort in her arms.
"Why then do I feel time is running out?" She breathed, tears glistening in her cobalt orbs. "Riots have broken out among our people. Their prejudices have not died as quickly as we would have wished," Serenity confessed and Selenity gently kissed her daughter's forehead, pouring comfort onto her through their bond.
"Perhaps you should come visit your father and I. He misses you terribly," Selenity offered, her eyes glancing around the room at the four warriors and one guardians who had relocated to make their life and home on Serenity's new world. On each of their faces she could see their anguish. There was a war brewing on Earth between its people. She could see the effect of Serenity's pain upon them… they were in agony whenever she was and though she hid it well her heart was breaking. Breaking for the child she could not give her beloved and the effect their marriage was having on his world.
"I cannot abandon my husband in his time of need. I should stay and prove to them how much I am a part of them. How much their home means to me," Serenity said with a small smile, resolve coming to her. Selenity smiled with understanding as she gently pushed a stray hair from her daughter's lovely face. "Besides, how could I leave my heart?" Serenity cooed and Selenity smiled adoringly at her, knowing exactly how she felt.
"The offer is always open my darling. Just for a visit. I must depart now but do not forget that everything comes in its own time. I love you," The whispered affections were needed and Serenity watched sadly as her mother departed, Mars escorting her away.
"Do you truly believe everything happens in its own time Minet?" Serenity breathed and suddenly arms were wrapped sturdily around her.
"Aye my Queen. I do. I have heard it said before that married couples who try too hard for offspring always become with child when they stop trying so hard," Venus offered with a wicked glint and Serenity shooed her off with an amused hiss.
"Oh hush. Mercury get your General in here. I want to see that prophecy, perhaps a child is in our sights yet," Serenity teased as she checked herself before a looking glass. Mercury shook her head amused.
"Do not even torture us so your highness," Lunar mumbled as she quietly opened the door to the room. "Mosk has informed me that your husband is free at the moment your majesty if you wish to see him," Lunar finished and Serenity's eyes lightened joyously.
"You always know what I am thinking," she teased heading through the open doors.
"It is my job your majesty," she breathed as Venus, Mercury and Jupiter followed behind them happily. This was a new world for them. One where Serenity made the rules and some protocols were damned all entirely. Their favorite being a restriction to love.
"I shall meet up with you later if that is all right," Mercury breathed next to her leader and Venus eyed the warrior with a small grin.
"As shall I," Jupiter informed with a playful smile and Venus nodded approvingly knowing exactly where her warriors were headed and it did not sound like too bad of an idea.
"The riots are continuing to grow milord. I am afraid soon we may not be able to contain them," Kunzite reported into the air and calm blue eyes looked up at them. "I am unsure why they are protesting what they are protesting so much. It is like your father's mind has come back to pollute them," he breathed, the burden of the words falling upon all gathered. This matter was more serious than they had been alluding to. Endymion feared greatly a war was coming. It was like a walking time bomb. They had been able to hide the Sun inhabitants as Earthlings for so long but one day it would get out they dwelled among them and this would be the last straw for his people.
"It is like their minds are being poisoned," a voice mumbled confused and Endymion glanced at his four generals. He leaned his chin into his hand. Since his ascension to the throne he had always been aware there were some underlying hatred he would have to cure due to his father's prejudice leadership. Yet, when he arrived home with his new bride it was as if the underlying hatred came to a dangerous boil and was now spilling all over them.
"Perhaps if we moved her off of the planet, just until all of this diminishes," Nephlite began and Endymion knitted his eyebrows together in anger at the thought.
"It has been a year she has been our Queen. I somehow do not see how a month or two off world will solve the situation," Jedite growled, angry at the entire situation knowing from his love how much this was hurting their new Queen.
"She stays. Serenity is their Queen," Endymion snapped, the thought of her apart from him an immediate irritation and the four generals nodded.
Something was churning in his planet he had never felt before… as if darkness was slowly eating away at the energy of his world. He let out a breath and dismissed them. They bowed and walked towards the doors. They opened regally and the four Earthen Generals bowed their head respectfully to the new occupant. Kunzite watched as her frame walked towards his king's back and closed the doors behind them. He sighed at the marble doors. She really loved him… She had proven it countless times and he knew that she was everything he needed. Especially now.
He felt like screaming. He knew without a shadow of a doubt his wife was the cause of none of this… She could cause nothing but her own little battles and usually they were with him but that was before they married. He smiled slightly thinking about her change since their wedding… she was even more amazing. No more games, no more lies… only them.
Slender digits ran across his shoulders as a small frame bent down next to him.
"Darling," she cooed lovingly and his smile broadened. He gently took her arm and kissed her wrist turning to look at her. She was breathtaking… "My parents want me to come visit them…" She said with a soft smile and he let out a breath and stared at her gown. It had changed since she married… he fingered the silk and marveled at it. It was only found on the moon and it helped bring out her true beauty.
"They are afraid I cannot protect you, my beautiful bride?" He asked looking up at her and she laughed. Her voice was intoxicating. He sighed drinking it in as it bounced off of the walls.
"As if I cannot protect myself," she replied and he pulled her to him and she smiled falling into his lap. "I cannot tare myself away from your side…" She whispered, her arms wrapping around him and he smiled kissing her arm.
"I would not have it any other way," he whispered and she sucked in a deep breath. He made her shudder… he was consuming in his love and she reveled in it. She smiled leaning closer to him.
"I love you," she breathed and their eyes locked and his hand ran up to her face, the other wrapping tightly around her pulling her securely into his embrace.
"Oh my love…" He mumbled admiring her beauty and she bit her bottom lip nervously under his gaze. "Why do you look at me so?" He grinned tapping her lips.
"I always want you to look at me like you do now…" She whispered and he smiled playfully at her.
"And how is that?" He asked and she leaned forward, her eyes traveling to his lips and he felt his heart beat speed up.
"As if you cannot live without me," she whispered, her eyes looking up into his own and he felt his breath still as the moment captured them.
"I cannot live without you," he replied, his face drained of all of its playfulness and her fingers ran into the hair at the base of his neck. Her lips crashed down upon his claiming them with delicious passion. His arms encircled around her and their lips meshed and melded together in a loving embrace only the intimate of lovers knew. She tore away with great satisfaction and looked into his eyes, her depths spilling with love.
"Will you always love me?" She asked and he smiled at her, her innocence now was provocative and enthralling. He stroked her face, fingering some of her locks and his hand snaked down her neck to her chest and she let out a breath, her face glowed with her happiness at being with him.
"I will love you for eternity…" He replied, his voice raspy and she put her hands on the sides of his face. "You have captured me that no other will ever do through the ages… I must have only you," he smoldered and she let out an excited sigh, her chest rising with her shallow breaths.
"If only you knew how happy you have made me…" She whispered, tears forming in the corners of her eyes as emotion choked up in her. He smiled and touched her face.
"I imagine as happy as you made me if not more," he grinned and she laughed leaning her forehead against his.
"Yes my husband," she smiled and he smiled playfully at her.
"I like it when you call me that," he smirked, gently caressing her cheek. Slowly she pulled away and his thoughts immediately latched onto her hidden disappointment. "Oh my darling," he whispered pulling her back into the security of his embrace. "We shall just have to keep trying," he whispered lovingly, trying to comfort her over another negative test. "Do you not just want to have me to yourself for awhile my Queen?" He teased and she let out a breath, gripping onto his shirt.
"I want to give you your little girl," she whispered brokenly and gently he lifted her chin, his eyes catching hers and she let out a breath.
"You will my love and we shall spoil her and make every one of her dreams come true," he whispered and she nodded, a smile gracing her features as she once more pushed her disappointment away. He smirked washing comfort over her. Gently he let her up from his lap and she sighed loosing touch from him. Regrettably she traveled towards the doors. He watched her go and the burden once more fell upon him.
Slowly he rose. He glanced at her and she smiled coyly over her shoulder at him as she touched the door handle.
"I will always protect you," he said with a sturdy conviction that brought a smile to her lips.
"I have no doubt," she replied with a bow of her head. "I'll see you tonight," she whispered stepping out and he grinned.
"Yes you will," he smiled and he heard her soft giggle echo down the hallway.
...
[Two Weeks later]
He stepped out of the transport and rushed to an open window. He was haggard, battle worn and knew he had left his men to die on his world… They had forced him on the transport, away from the losing war he had so valiantly been trying to fight and he had fought against them… fought them to stay and fight for what was theirs. What he had spent a lifetime protecting… He sucked in a shattering breath to keep himself standing.
"My King!" A voice yelled at him and he turned to see figures rushing towards him.
"Time to test the strength of our Alliance… where is she?" He asked, his voice going desperate and Artemis nodded grabbing onto his arm to lead him down the hall.
"Endymion!" Her voice echoed and he broke from Artemis in enough time to open his arms and accept her. Her warmth hit him like a tidal wave and comfort instantly washed over him.
"My love, do not leave my side," he commanded and she shook her head, a few tears sliding down her cheeks as she clutched to him.
"My darling, our world…" she began and he gently placed a thumb over her lips, his eyes filled with tears as he looked upon her.
"They killed our people," he struggled out, his frame shaking and she clutched to him. "The Sun inhabitants did not even have a chance to fight," he breathed and Serenity felt her insides turn to fire and lick painfully at her as more tears escaped her eyes. Entire planets and cultures were being eradicated before her eyes…
"King Endymion," Queen Selenity was suddenly beside him and Endymion sucked in a deep breath, his grip on his bride never leaving as he suddenly felt them both being ushered down the hall. "I am afraid it has escaped into the atmosphere. It is moving towards Mercury. We need to give an order."
"We cannot destroy an entire planet… it would affect the gravitational pull and destroy the rest of the planets around it," Endymion breathed shaking his head and the Queen nodded to him sadly as he clutched to her daughter.
"We can perhaps contain it," Queen Selenity mumbled and Serenity glanced up at her mother in surprise.
"You can't contain pure evil… it would eventually break free. Would we doom our children's children with our problem? What if our powers do not carry on?" Serenity voiced the concerns into the air and than they were suddenly before the Monarch of the galaxy.
"King Endymion!" King Jaron of Jupiter breathed relieved. "Are you all right?" He inquired quickly and Endymion shook his head lightly.
"I have no idea how this happened… I can only beg your forgiveness for the darkness that is entering our worlds," Endymion mumbled and felt his beloved's fingers intertwine with his own.
"Where are your Generals sire?" Queen Vinet of Venus asked and Endymion looked at her at a loss.
"I am here because they are not," he whispered and silence fell around the room.
"Our daughters are positioning around the palace…" Queen Martia of Mars whispered, her voice broken as the staggering news her daughter's love was now lost to her hit her.
"Mercury… has fallen," Queen Amite suddenly breathed her eyes looking up towards them from the viewscreen before her that showed the destruction of her home world.
"How can it be spreading so fast?!" King Fergal hissed, anger hitting him. Earth was gone and Mercury just provided the gateway to the other worlds.
"We don't even know what it is…" Serenity breathed when suddenly alarms began to ring throughout the palace.
"Saturn!" Endymion bellowed and the young girl rushed to his side. "Kill it… kill everything on it," he breathed and he heard Serenity let out a sob beside him. "We can't lose any more… if it gets to Pluto…" he stilled as that thought hit him hard on the chest. The young warrior nodded and left. A sad calm came over the room as realizations were being made… what they were up against was nothing they could have ever imagined. It came without warning, it ate everything it touched and killed mercilessly… In a matter of three hours it had destroyed two entire planets.
"We shall not go down without a fight," Fergal said strongly beside him and gripped his shoulder trying to reassure him this was not the end. "To your portals. Take care of your people… we will try and stop it here," Fergal said and the Queen of Mars let a sob tear through her. "I need you to get off planet," Fergal finished turning to his daughter and son-in-law.
"Do not give us that order," Endymion breathed and Fergal looked lovingly at them, as his wife exited the room.
"I cannot let you die with us, not when I need you to rule this galaxy," he whispered and the room quickly emptied as monarch rushed to save their worlds. Endymion felt his bride tare from his arms and panic hit him.
"Serenity!" he cried rushing after her and Fergal quickly followed.
"Mother!" Serenity screamed rushing after her mother when suddenly an explosion rocked the corridor and she slammed into the wall. His arms were immediately around her and she blinked in surprise, the aftershock still vibrating around them. "She is going to use the crystal…" Serenity coughed and Endymion nodded, holding onto her tightly.
"My love you cannot help her. This is what they have all trained for, we have to let them…" Endymion stilled, his guards entering his mind and a single tear slid down his cheek. Gently she wiped it away and he pulled her away from the rubble.
She rushed towards the transport as it docked. It was the last that had left Earth successfully.
"King Endymion?" her voice yelled over the fading engine when the door opened and she let out a relieved breath. "Darling, they have overtaken Mercury… where is our King? Any report?" Jupiter inquired as the four Generals stepped slowly from the transport. They all walked by her, not even giving her eye contact and she felt a cold chill run down her spine.
"Earth has fallen I'm afraid, under new management," his voice was cold and dark and pierced… just like the sword that went through her abdomen as he held tightly to her shoulder, anchoring her in place. His deep chocolate eyes burned into her own and her jaw dropped in horror at him.
"My love," she whispered and a small trickle of blood escaped the corner of her mouth. She had not even seen him unsheathe his sword… He pulled it out quickly and she cried out at the pain as he released her arm. He turned from her and she watched as her blood dropped from the tip to litter the perfect white floors. "Venus," she choked out when suddenly she was silenced.
"Mercury and Mars will have set up a protective barrier. Destroy it," Kunzite began to order, his blank eyes staring at his companions. "I will await our Queen. Once she arrives I will go after Venus, she will be guarding Queen Selenity."
"What should we do with the King and Queen of Earth sire?" Jedite snarled and Kunzite began to walk down the hall, their forms flanking him.
"Leave them to her but any other monarch you see… slay them."
The sound of four swords being drawn echoed the crystal halls as the darkened forms descended upon the Moon Kingdom.
Mercury stood strong and powerful, her power radiating around her as it tried to shield the palace from more attacks.
"My love!" His voice called from her left and her eyes glanced that way. "How can I help you?" He inquired and her eyes narrowed curiously. Why was he asking her that? Should he not know? She turned away from him, not letting him distract her. Too much was at stake. "Darling…" he breathed suddenly beside her and she blinked surprised when his hand wrapped around her neck and a dagger stabbed suddenly into her heart. She choked, her power flickering than vanishing as her frame buckled. She watched in horror as her protective barrier faded around the palace and she felt despair and failure set into her. How had he gotten so close, so fast?
"Zoy…" she struggled out, her fingers wrapping around his wrist at her neck, the other pushing him away from her.
"Did you see Mercury fall? It was easy for them to take it since I fed them their security codes…" His voice mocked her and she could only stare at him in horror than complete anger. Her eyes narrowed and she pushed out her hand, a four-foot ice pick shooting through his chest and out his back.
"Shall we go down together love?" she snarled the last word and his eyes widened in anger.
"We shall," he snapped and they fell away from each other, their bodies giving out as his dagger remained still in her heart, her ice pick straight through his chest, blood pooling around them.
"Get to the last Portal!" Fergal demanded and Endymion stopped, gripping onto his bride as they looked at him.
"I cannot," Serenity hissed and Fergal moved forward, kissing her head lovingly as he took her into his arms.
"You have been the joy of my life," he whispered and Serenity gripped to him. "I cannot let her do this alone, do not make me choose between you or her," he cried and Serenity couldn't stop the sobs tearing through her.
"Daddy," she wept and he shook his head, gently cupping his son-in-law's arm.
"My son," he whispered and Endymion shook his head grabbing onto him.
"Father," he breathed and Fergal smiled adoringly at them.
"Give me a beautiful granddaughter will you?" he asked and Serenity felt as if she couldn't breath.
"Serenity!" A voice screamed and they turned to see Mars rushing up to them. Another explosion rocked the palace and when they turned back Fergal was gone.
"No!" Serenity screamed and Endymion wrapped his arms around her, sweeping her off of her feet and rushing her towards Mars.
"This way sire!" she motioned down a hall and Endymion rushed them that way. "Jupiter and Mercury are down," she called over her shoulder and he almost lost his step.
"What?" Serenity called and Mars stilled, her back to them and she closed her eyes painfully.
"Mercury… and Jupiter are down," she repeated stoically and Serenity grabbed onto her, yanking her around.
"What?" Serenity screamed at her and Mars sucked in a shattering breath.
"Mercury's barrier has fallen. Venus has rushed to your mother's side, I have to join her. Please let me get you to the portal. Follow me now," she whispered, gripping to her Princess's hands.
"No, please follow me," A voice said suddenly and Endymion yanked his bride behind him and his sword immediately came forward. Fire jumped to Mars' fingertips as they eyed the man before them that stood in their way towards the transport rooms. "Why are you looking at me like that? My darling this way, quickly!" Jedite called holding out his hand and a tear slid down Mars face as her eyes narrowed angrily at the man before her.
"Take the left corridor, do not wait for me," she ordered behind her and Endymion shook his head.
"No, Mars," he tried but she suddenly charged, a smirk coming to Jedite's face as he opened his arms ready for her.
Another explosion rocked around them. The palace was being torn to shreds…
"How can this be happening?" Serenity cried and he grabbed her hand, his eyes seeing a way out through the rubble.
"Seren don't let go," he called and yanked her into his arms. She closed her eyes and they vanished disappearing and than re-appearing once more outside.
"Lovely evening isn't it?"
Endymion stilled, his arms still tightly coiled around his wife. He knew that voice. He slowly turned and encountered dark red hair and a pale face he had hoped to never see again in his life.
"Beryl…" he breathed and Serenity took in the thin woman before them. She oozed darkness… "What have you done?" He asked, shock on his features.
"Amazing what a broken heart can accomplish isn't it?" she sneered to them and Serenity gripped onto Endymion tightly. "I did a bit of remodeling on our world darling and re-instated your fallen guards, I hope you don't mind…" Beryl laughed, her eyes wild and Endymion slowly took a step back, his sword in his hand as his other arm wrapped protectively around Serenity. "Got rid of those freeloaders from the Sun, talk about a drain on our economy," she said with a breath and Serenity moved forward to strike her but Endymion held her strong.
"How dare you… you just killed billions," Serenity roared and Beryl took a step forward.
"So, our little Queen. I'd like to say it is nice to see you again… but we all know that isn't true," she growled and Serenity's bright eyes narrowed, her hand uncurling from her husband's shirt to shoot towards the crazy bitch.
Endymion grabbed her hand shoving it down, pulling her closer to her.
"Not yet," he breathed quietly than his eyes met the crazy emerald before him. They had to find out how she had gotten this power… she did not have it on her own, someone was helping her.
"You did all this, all because I wouldn't marry you?" Endymion asked quietly, trying to hold his anger in check as he stared down the woman who destroyed his world, killed his wife's people and was mercilessly destroying planet by planet.
"Somehow I knew you would make this about you…" Beryl said with a dramatic sigh than her painted dark lips curled upwards. "Why lie, it is all about you. Every since I saw you five years ago… I knew my time would come and when you had me, you wouldn't want anyone else…"
They watched with disgust as she ran a hand suggestively down her side, obviously enjoying having them trapped to listen to her spiel.
"Yet, right when my turn was about to happen you met that heart stealer," Beryl's voice dipped and they felt the evil rip through it. "You stole everything from me… I should have your crown, your world… his heart!" her voice rose in pitch as her face contorted into anger, her long fingers curling into herself and Serenity gulped seeing blood trickle from her palms from the pressure. "And I will have it. She gave me the power to have it…" Beryl said suddenly, her body calming a bit and her fingers relaxed.
"I will never be yours. I've only belonged to her… and will forever," Endymion growled, Serenity leaning into him and Beryl's eyes widened. Anger began to course through her and she screamed, a vein in her forehead bulged and she shot out her hands, black lighting jumping from her razor sharp nails.
Endymion pushed, sending Serenity away from him and they both flew to the ground, the lighting zipping between them. Serenity gasped rushing to stand up when suddenly a hand wrapped around her throat, pulling her from the ground forcefully. She gasped, her eyes widening as she felt the coldness of Beryl's touch flamed by pure hatred.
"It will give me no greater pleasure to snap your neck with my bare hands… but then you wouldn't learn anything," her voice hissed across her face and Serenity closed her eyes, forcing her gaze away not wanting to give the psycho the satisfaction.
"Not as much pleasure as this gives me," Endymion roared and Beryl buckled forward and Serenity hit the ground, pushing the witch's hands away from her. Beryl turned, her back still vibrating with pain from the rubble he had just used to smash into it.
"We can do foreplay later Endymion… right now I'm trying to kill your bride," she snapped, turning to grab onto the Princess again but she was gone. "Come out wherever you are coward!" she spit out. "Don't you want to be around when I claim your husband as my own, brainwash him like I did his Generals? Oh that's right… you won't see our happily ever after because it can't happen until you are dead!" Her voice hit a high pitch that roared and caused their ears to ring.
"For your crimes against the New Alliance I wish I could sentence you to something worse than death… but death will have to do," Serenity growled and Beryl turned, her green eyes widening as she saw power build within the Queen's hand. She snarled and than shot out, her fingers extended as her nails grew to long thing razor claws. She flew forward fast with malice and force.
"Serenity!"
She felt his magic before it hit her and immediately her heart shattered. His warm arms were around her and he was pushed into her forcefully, her frame stumbling back as she attempted to support his weight.
"Endymion!" her voice broke as she tried to cradle him, she attempted to pull away but couldn't, her gaze falling to her chest to see that Beryl's nails had gone through him and straight into her. "Baby…" she whispered and Beryl growled in anger, ripping her nails from them. They fell to their knees and Beryl grabbed him ripping him from her arms.
"Do not touch him!" Beryl screamed and than a surge of energy shot forth sending her flying through the sky and away from the fallen King's body. Her bloody scream of anger and hatred echoing until her frame ripped apart with Serenity's power.
Serenity gasped, warm blood beginning to trickle down her chest. She couldn't hold onto any air but her eyes could only stare at the form before her that was also desperately trying to breath.
"Endy…" she rasped, her frame crawling towards him until she grabbed onto him, lifting his head into her lap. "My love, my everything," she breathed moving to kiss his forehead and he smirked sadly at her.
"This wasn't really in the prophesy… it said I would have you forever," he choked out and she grasped his hand, intertwining her fingers with his.
"It's just a flesh wound… we will be ok," she whispered desperately and he gently cupped her cheek.
"I am sorry I did not protect our people," he rasped and her tears began to splash onto his face and her frame buckled over him. She tried not to put pressure on his chest but he pulled her to him, letting her fall on him as her organs began to fail.
"You are perfect, don't say otherwise," she hissed and he sucked in a half breath, wishing his lungs would pull more in.
"I wish you were still immortal… to lead our worlds," he heaved and tears trickled from her eyes and she gently shushed him.
"How I am happy I am not, a life without you is agony. Love me forever darling?" her voice was growing faint and stuttered a bit at the end.
"Only you," he breathed and she felt her head go light, their blood mingling together and he gently let her head fall on his chest, her perfect gaze never leaving his own. "I love you Ser…" he coughed, blood tickling out his mouth before his head hit the ground and they both stilled.
The power was building and she allowed it. She felt the sadness, the anger, and the desperation as billions in her galaxy fought for their lives.
"Tell me she got away," she whispered quietly and Fergal approached her, tears streaming down his face.
"They are together," he whispered and her eyes closed sadly, tears leaking from them. "My darling, end this," he breathed, his arms wrapping around her and she sucked in a deep breath.
"I will send all of you into the future, let them all find a new home away from this and give them the tools to defeat this evil…" she began and suddenly her head was turned to face him.
"Do not send me my love," he breathed and her heart broke, her frame leaning into his.
"My darling I must!" She protested and he smiled sadly at her, a tear trickling down his cheek.
"I will not be without you," he responded lovingly and he pulled her lips towards him kissing her desperately with all of the passion and adoration he possessed for her. Her power released, drifting into the atmosphere and her arms wrapped tightly around him, her eyes closing as she refused to let go of their kiss. A bright flash occurred in her peripheral but she ignored it… all that mattered was him and his lips and his heart pressed against her own.
She felt them. Each of them as they slowly perished. Her feet rushed her across the grounds and stilled when she saw a pile of rubble, red and white peaking out from it and a waterfall of black hair. She tried not to vomit. She turned away and her heart seemed to stop at what then laid before her.
"Serenity!" the word tore from her throat painfully as she staggered towards her fallen Princess and her Prince. She felt it then, a small flicker and she rushed forward messily. She fell before her Princess and dulling cerulean eyes blinked open painfully towards her. "Sere…" Minet choked out as she took in the horror before her. Their hands were clutched together, their forms still as they laid upon one another. Five holes still flowed blood from each of their chests. What monster had done this? Endymion was gone. She tasted bile in her throat but she pushed it down as she looked away from her King to his bride clutching to his fallen frame. She moved to take Serenity from him, to get her to a healer when her Princess' eyes caught hers.
Do not make me leave him…
Her words echoed in Minet's mind and they sounded hallow and broken. She was bleeding out…
"Sere, you are dying… let me save you," Minet wept, shaking her head painfully as she held onto her Princess. No other words were coming to her mind as she knew Serenity did not have the strength left. A sob tore through her and her head fell. Her gaze fell to Endymion's sword and she looked up painfully at her beloved friend and cousin. "Shall I let you be with him forever?" Minet asked painfully and Serenity's lungs grasped onto a shallow painful breath, her gaze never leaving her warriors. The sword scraped the ground as she pulled it from Endymion's side. It was heavy. Not out of her strength but the biggest burden she had ever touched with the duty it was about to perform. Without preamble she shoved it into Serenity's heart ending her suffering. She yanked it back quickly and was rewarded with a loving glance from Serenity before her eyes closed forever.
She fell helplessly to her knees before them as the weapon clattered out of her hands. Why had she not been here to protect them? She let out an anguished scream, her voice roaring into the sky her pain. She fell silent, tears trickling down her face and she wanted to touch them. To hold her cousin's hand once more but she couldn't bare to take her hand from her loves.
"They would have wanted it that way," his voice sent a chill down her spine and her face scrunched in anger as his footfalls approached. "Don't you think?" he inquired and she remained silent.
Slowly she reached a hand around her head and pulled her long blonde hair away form her neck, exposing it. Her failure stung deeply into her. Earth had fallen. One by one each planet was being destroyed by darkness. Her warriors… her sisters were killed mercilessly at the hands of their lovers. The lovers she had allowed them to have. And her Princess… her blood… she had killed her herself to end her suffering. To save her from a life without her beloved. A life they should have lived forever but did not because she had not been there to protect them.
She heard him unsheathe his sword, his presence strong behind her and she closed her eyes in acceptance of her fate. She deserved worse. His sword rose high, a sick pleasure forming on his lips as he brought it down towards her neck.
"I love you Kunzite," she whispered quietly and than everything vanished.