The Heavy Crown
Maiestas, resting the back of his head against the oak door behind him, slowly got up from his sitting position on the floor. The old man groaned feeling his weak muscles ache from the effort. He touched his wounded eye and felt a rising anger, the culprits were undoubtedly sleeping soundly behind the door where he stood. The evil man had spent the entire night waiting on Rei and wishing Minako would leave the room, go to her own, and discover Makoto's trunks for her to rummage in. The sun settled slowly on the horizon giving the corridor a gleam of dusty light, barely strong enough to compete with the faintest flame coming from the torches along the hall.
Maiestas was tired, very tired but the moment to act had come. Filled with confidence and excitement, he ran, limping crudely, down the hall and to the stairs. Holding a steadying hand on the rail, he was quick to make his way down to the Great Hall. He was met by a few soldiers, all standing uncomfortably and bored by the double doors of the Palace. They ignored the feeble looking man as he passed them and disappeared into the Imperial garden.
Maiestas ignored the cold morning as well as the low sky still plagued with small bolts and tinkling rain. He scurried along the inner wall, his bent and pathetic form was well hidden between bushes and trees as he beat the sun rising along the east wing. A few more soldiers, looking just as downhearted as the previous one's, passed him as he made his way safely to the common houses. A few maids were climbing out of the buildings, their tired eyes did not even register the old man's presence as he quietly arrived to the stables. The horses were stirring, someone inside was making them anxious.
"Well? Have you got him?" Maiestas asked as he inched his way further into the hay matted building. Each stall he passed trembled and whined.
"Of coarse. We had a deal. He's waiting in the southeast tower, just as you asked" a soldier, one who just hours before had suffered a terrible beating and humiliating reprimand, said as he made himself shamefully seen.
"Is he safe? I wouldn't want to walk into an ambush" the old man said as he approached the silver and white clad man.
"Of coarse he is. He's been beaten and practically starved. The Jovian is as dangerous and scared as a trapped bird. I've let him know you have honorable intentions for him, he won't feel threatened"
"I doubt that but I don't seem to have a choice, do I? Alright then, here you are, as we agreed" Maiestas mumbled as he took out a half full vial of a shining liquid. He smiled and handed the container over to the soldier who began to inspect the glimmering bottle.
"How do I know this isn't a trick? This surely can't be..."
"I could ask you the same thing. How do I know I won't be attacked by the man sitting in the tower. Or men perhaps? I can assure you the power and veracity of what that vial contains. Take it and be pleased with yourself, for once" the old man said as he turned his back and began to walk away. In an instant he was pulled back.
"If this is...what it is, why aren't you worried what I will do with it? This seems to easy. I could overthrow the Queen with it, would you allow such a thing?" the soldier challenged as he tried giving back the precious item.
Maiestas looked at the man and smiled sinisterly "I'm sure you've realized I want what you want, whatever that may be. Just being here with you makes me as innocent or guilty as you are. I too risk a great deal but if you prefer, I'll give you the money we initially agreed on" he said calmly before revealing from his cloak a heavy leather bag. He shook it, confirming it was filled with coins.
"Wait! I don't want the money...I prefer this..." the younger man said as he pulled his hand back and tenderly pressed the small bottle against his chest - "You drink it, I want to make sure it's safe..." he demanded as with difficulty he tried handing the vial back.
"You know perfectly well I couldn't. Only people of the Moon can make use of it, it's poison for me..."
"Those are rumors, no?"
"I know as much about it as you do. I haven't time and neither have you. After your embarrassing treatment of the Jovian princess I hear you'll be sent to the darkest reaches of the Moon where a weed will barely grow. Am I correct? The money will get you far off this rock, perhaps to Earth. The Crystal could be far more useful, if used correctly. Take your pick and we'll both be on our way. Guards will be here for you soon, hurry!" Maiestas said with excellent confidence but with the perfect amount of urgency.
The soldier, stupid and unsure like most of them, took a deep breath before nodding and possessing the vial close to his heart again. He received an understanding grin from the old man before he turned and walked back along the stalls of the stable.
"Be careful, he likes his drink!" the armored man cried out to the small figure.
Maiestas turned and saw the man had already uncorked the bottle "Really? How do you know this? You didn't give him anything, did you?" he asked suspiciously, his mouth twisting into a malicious grin as he watched the soldier press his lips on the tip of the vial.
"No! Of coarse not! His hands shake, you'll see in a moment" the soldier wailed back before taking a fast gulp of the shining liquid.
"Good to know" Maiestas whispered to himself as he continued his way, very slowly, along the whining horses. A minute passed, maybe just seconds, before he heard a pain filled groan and a thump, armor clanking, moaning and then silence.
The old man stopped and turned, barely making out the limp silhouette of the dead soldier. He took the bag filled with money and threw it haphazardly on the man's corpse, coins flying everywhere.
"Fool" Maiestas growled as he left. Outside, the maids were already beginning to file into the kitchen and scullery. Luckily for him, the path to his next destination was surely deserted. The southern east tower was preserved entirely for esthetic reasons and except for a few circulating guards, the old man made it safely and without care to the abandoned structure. With much displeasure but thriving enthusiasm, Maiestas climbed the spiral staircase until he reached a small door at the top. He pressed his ear against it and could only hear the sudden scraping of a chair against the floor. Satisfied, he entered.
Inside, bent over a table filled with food and drink, was a tall and bulky man clad in silver and white armor. The Jovian, disguised in a lunar uniform, spit out the decadent amount of food in his mouth. He jumped up, the chair he sat on falling in the process, and took out his brand new silver sword.
"Calm down, I am the one who sent for you. My name is Maiestas, please, sit. Continue to eat, you must be starving and very...thirsty" the old man said gently as he motioned the man back down and closed the door firmly.
The soldier pulled his sword back and cautiously sat as he took a long gulp from the bottle in front of him - "I sure am. You animals kept me locked up like a common criminal. Ha! Not even! A common criminal is like royalty compared to this place! Beat me up and everything!" he cried tilting the bottle in his hand to prove it was empty.
Maiestas was quick to grab another bottle from the foot of the table and hand it over "I'm dreadfully sorry for whatever...those animals have done to you. I myself am not from the Moon, I am from Mercury, so I do understand your anger" he said taking a seat opposite to the drinking and eating man.
"Ha! Same thing! Back home, we'd never treat even our worst enemy like this" the soldier lied as he continued to drink and eat barbarically.
"I'm sure that's true. You're a Jovian, correct? You came here with the princess?"
"That's right! I am a Jovian! And proud of it!" - the soldier announced as he flicked the armor on him with hate - "I'm not even suppose to be here! That bitch is to blame..." he said bitterly.
"No? I thought you were escorting the princess, keeping her safe?"
"Me? Ha! Not likely! The royal guards left to battle when they realized the princess was gone, leaving us, me, to protect the King and Queen's villa. I could've gone to war! Left to take care of the brat..."
Maiestas nodded kindly and offered another bottle which was hastily taken "Yes, that sounds very unfair. You look like a great warrior, I can't imagine having to take care of a child and coming here..." he tempted.
"We weren't even supposed to come! Orders were to leave to Ceres! That idiot girl got herself almost killed, made us have to come here on account it was closer. We should at least get a reward, considering she's alive" the Jovian complained as he tore into the meat on his plate.
"I'm sorry. Alive, you said? How do you...know she's alive?" the old man inquired much too intensely.
The soldier caught the seriousness of the question and despite his state he grinned "Aren't you suppose to know this?" he asked slyly.
"Of coarse but you are not. Help me help you. What do you know about the Jovian princess?" Maiestas asked calmly but with a hungry glimmer in his eyes, he presented another bottle.
"She's definitely alive. One of the pretty maids says so"
"What does she say? How does she know? Tell me! All the food, drink and pretty maids, you have my word! Tell me everything"
"Like I said, a pretty maid opened her very pretty but big mouth. Coarse, I can't blame her, she never thought we'd get out of that cellar and surely, she couldn't resist a man like me..." the soldier said rubbing his chest proudly.
"Enough! Stop wasting my time!"
"Alright! Sorry...anyways, she was kind enough to bring us soaked sponges. We were talking and I asked her why she was filled with blood stains. She said she had been cleaning the floor leading to the princess's room"
"She just told you this?"
The soldier sighed and took another gulp before continuing "I don't know why! She was nice to me and I was nice to her!" he complained, his voice beginning to slip as the drink kicked in properly.
"Why would a house maid be sent to the cells?" Maiestas asked mainly to himself.
"I don't know! Do you want to hear the rest of it?"
"I'm sorry, go on" the old man said, a searing headache pounding him as he rubbed his temples.
"Her first time around, cleaning the floors I mean, she saw a blue haired girl, she thinks it was your princess, you know, from Mercury. The girl was wandering around outside of my princess's room. Kind of suspiciously, you know?" the Jovian explained drunkenly before almost stumbling over, he laughed grabbing the table for balance.
Maiestas groaned "Is that all? The blue haired girl just wandered around?" he asked urgently as he watched the sun begin to settle from the small window of the tower.
"No...that's why I said her first time around, you know? Cleaning the floors. She was sent back to finish her work. Apparently blood is hard to clean. The blue haired girl was gone but she heard two people in the room. Hick! Swears it was the voices of two young girls. Well, that's not completely true. Says she heard one voice wailing and the other begging her to quiet down. She would have stayed, you know? To see what was happening but the Queen showed up and she left there as quickly as she could!" the soldier finished as he tapped his fingers against the table proudly, moments away from tilting over.
"That's a very interesting story. I'm very pleased with you. How would you like to help me? Something like a personal guard? Like I promised, you'd have all the food, drink and pretty maids as you please" Maiestas offered happily offering the last bottle.
"No thanks, I'll save that one for later. Wouldn't want to be too drunk on the job, eh?" the soldier chuckled as he patted his stomach.
"Very well. I just need you to stay here, I'll come for you when you're needed. Is that alright?" the old man asked kindly.
"Yes-sir, here's fine..." the Jovian mumbled before unsteadily falling to the floor and passing out. The man immediately began to snore loudly.
Maiestas smiled "Perhaps it's not a bad idea to keep you around. At least I can use this for later..." - he said taking the last bottle and concealing it under his cloak - "...hopefully your princess likes to drink as much as you do. I'll see you soon, Proditor..." he said leaving the stinking room of the tower. He took out a key and made sure it was locked from the outside.
000
The morning sun attacked Rei's face, making her jerk up and continue to nod stupidly. She and her new friend the Venusian princess had stayed up all night talking, the latter most of all. It was actually fun until about four in the morning when exhaustion began to cloud the miko's mind and eyes. She stayed awake, only for the sake of her blonde guest who seemed overrun with incredible energy. Most of all, it was amazing how much she could learn about a person in a night and how much said person had managed to get out of her.
"Isn't this too heavy? Do you always have to wear it?" Minako asked. She had put on the Martian armor and was in the process of picking up the sword. She looked quite comical and displaced, the helmet on her head easily falling over her eyes.
"I should think so. It was my mother's. My father gave it to me before I left Mars" Rei said tiredly, barely lifting her head to see her friend's ridiculous posture. It made her giggle before yawning.
"I don't understand how anyone can lift this while using such an uncomfortable armor, it's impossible!" Minako cried before swinging the sword unevenly, she hit a brass candle holder causing the object to fly across the room along with small pieces of wax. The sudden commotion made the blonde yelp and drop the sword like it was on fire.
The miko watched as the weapon crashed to the floor. In an instant, like caught in a dream, she returned to the vision she had back on Mars. Her sword, her mother's sword, shining against crackling flames before falling slowly drenched in blood. Rei jumped up and quickly began tearing the armor off of Minako, her gaze turning frightened towards the blade on the floor next to her.
"I'm sorry! I didn't mean to!" the blonde protested as she twisted and turned, the armor on her instantly falling from all sides.
"It's not that, I'm just very tired. I'm sorry, we can talk another time" the miko said urgently and rudely. Her demeanor was worried, almost distressed as she took the helmet off of the blonde's head and placed it gently on the bed.
"Ok. I had fun" Minako said sadly as she was practically pushed out by Rei who simply nodded and hurriedly led her out. The door behind her closed and she was left out alone in the corridor she was already beginning to hate.
"That was rude of her" - the blonde said before yawning - "Though, we did spend the entire night together talking, I guess I should go to bed" she said to herself with a smile, one she couldn't truly explain. That moment, not surprisingly or uncommonly, the sounds of angered stomping filled the hallway. Minako was unmoved when Saeko and Maiestas approached her quickly. The man, as always, looked pleased with himself and sinister while the woman looked red in the face with rage. The Queen ignored the princess as they arrived outside of Makoto's room. She waited patiently while the old man lingered a little.
"Stay out of the trunks left in your room, do you understand?" Maiestas hollered from where he and his Queen stood, his eyes menacing as they pierced Minako's. She failed to notice the small grin on his wicked face and immediately decided to investigate the contents of the trunks, just to spite him. She watched as the two Mercurians entered the room. The corridor was instantly filled with Saeko's screams which led the blonde to quickly find shelter in her room and barricade herself against the door, the Queen's furious yelling too much to handle.
000
"AMI-CHAN! What do you think you are doing!" Saeko demanded as she walked in on her daughter sleeping next to the Jovian princess. They were far from touching, Ami was practically falling off the bed, but it was enough to turn the room into chaos. The ear piercing cries made the blue haired girl jerk awake and slide out of the bed while Makoto also awoke, barely strong enough to slightly twist and moan, clearly she was still too weak to register her surroundings.
"What are you doing in here? How dare you disobey me! Who do you think you are! Are you not clever enough to know how wrong this is? Well? What were you doing with her? Answer me!"
Ami felt dizzy as she stumbled along the furniture in the room, her eyes set on the door "I...I...I don't know! I thought she was dead!" she cried fighting tears.
"Oh! You thought she was dead! I'm sorry! That's an excellent reason to have come in! Very good! Have you lost your mind?" Saeko screamed as she watched her daughter cower away from her.
"Your majesty, I believe it's worse than we thought..." - Maiestas said gravely as he took the shinning vial from the bedside table and presented it to his Queen - "She used the Crystal..." he announced obviously.
"You didn't! Oh, I hope for your sake you didn't Ami-chan! I'll have you locked away!" Saeko threatened before rushing to Makoto's side along with Maiestas. It was clear she had used the crystal, since the girl was alive, but they quickly began removing her bandages to make sure.
Seeing a clear way out, Ami didn't even hesitate as she ran out of the room, her two "superiors" noticed her absence too late. She sped out into the corridor, almost slipping, and along it until she reached the stairway. Feeling a cold fear invade her back she practically threw herself down the steps, her feet barely touching ground as she flew down. At the landing, with such speed and urgency, she fell over onto the hard marble ground of the Great Hall. Several soldiers guarding the palace's entrance ran to her aid and helped her up. Ami, trembling with fear and adrenaline, detached herself from the men and hurried to the door which they opened while asking her if she was alright. She ignored the questions and was quick to launch herself into the wilderness of the imperial garden.
She found a path, aligned by flowers and stones. The amount of trees slowly turned into a grove as she continued to walk until she could no longer see the Palace properly, only small specks of sunlight inched their way into the cluster of plants. Ami was impressed and couldn't believe she had ignored the garden, especially after spending days locked up in her room or that awful corridor. Her mind raced back to her mother and Makoto and she was suddenly filled with a furious rage and gut wrenching worry, it made her feel sick. She tried drowning out the guilt with reason, sure of herself for saving the Jovian's life, but the thought of the next encounter with her mother made it hard to feel any better. The princess sighed, feeling the urge to cry, wishing she could stay in the garden forever.
The sudden sound of moans and crying beat Ami to her own grief. She ventured forward, following the sniffs and wails until she reached a small clearing. There, sitting on a stone bench next to a small pond, was Usagi crying into a handkerchief. She didn't notice the blue haired girl as she was facing away from her, her sobbing also made it hard for anyone to be heard.
"Usagi-chan? Are you alright?" Ami asked gently as she approached the girl and laid a soft hand on her shoulder.
"Oh! Ami-chan! Hello!" the pig tailed blonde said startled as she quickly wiped her face and gave a fake smile.
"What's the matter? What happened?" the Mercurian said taking a seat next to her princess.
"It's stupid..."
"Please tell me, I don't like seeing you like this..." Ami urged sincerely.
"Well, I suppose it isn't that stupid if it makes me feel like this..." - Usagi whimpered as new tears fell down her cheeks - "...I can't see him again! Luna told me I can't see him again!" she wailed before plunging her face into the cloth in her hands.
"You mean Endymion? Why?" the blue haired girl asked worriedly but glad she had payed the girl a little attention during her rants.
"Yes! First she told me he was coming soon which made me really happy..." -the blonde choked - "...but then she said I was forbidden to greet, meet or speak with him! I couldn't understand...I still don't!" she complained angrily.
"But...why? Didn't she say?"
"It's too dangerous!" - Usagi said in a mocking voice - "...because of the war. My mother says I can't think when I'm around him, she couldn't even tell me personally. She sends Luna...Of coarse I can't think! I'm in love! What does she know..." she mumbled sadly.
"I'm sure she has a strong reason, your mother doesn't seem to make unfounded decisions. You must see that, no? She let you be with him before..." Ami offered as consolation. It made her realize she had no idea what she was talking about. How could she?
"Have you ever fallen in love? I mean, true love. So true you could easily prove it? So pure you wouldn't even have to? Oh...it makes you feel like nothing else matters...I cried the first time I kissed him. Have you ever felt that?" Usagi asked kindly, knowing the answer but simply trying to state her point.
"No...of coarse not. I haven't..." Ami said sounding as normal and understanding as possible when ,in fact, she realized how far and impossible real love felt, it saddened her terribly. Her heart ached, convinced she would never know what her friend felt.
"Don't tell anyone but...oh! I probably won't do it so don't even worry"
"What?"
"Well...I was thinking of hiding in Mamoru's ship until he left. I know! It's stupid! But...I can't help wonder what I'll do when he arrives. Every time I see him I...become someone else, I feel different, insane...you know?" Usagi said sounding calmer.
"I do...kind of..." Ami whispered to herself, her mind returning to Makoto and that night's strange and amazing events. She smiled and in an a very unusual gesture, she took Usagi's hand and squeezed it; both girls sat silently with their own thoughts as the morning chirping and sun over them gave them a small relief from what was to come. With bracing support they decided to return to the Palace.
000
"Serenity! Serenity! Open this door at once! Now!" Saeko demanded as she pounded on the Queen's double doors.
"Perhaps she's not inside" Maiestas ventured as he stood pathetically next to the taller woman.
"Leave me! Go do something useful, stop badgering me!" the Mercurian Queen said annoyed as she motioned him to leave.
"What should I do?" the old man questioned angrily.
"Go sleep! I know you've been wandering around the hallway all night, just go!" Saeko urged before the doors she stood in front of were opened. Maiestas ran off to his room, his posture shrinking as he saw his most powerful superior.
"What is it?" Serenity asked tiredly as she allowed her fellow Queen into her chamber.
Behind closed doors, Saeko was confident enough to continue her balling "You know perfectly well why I'm here at such an hour and in such a state. You gave my daughter that vial didn't you? You led her to break a magical pact for the sake of that girl, didn't you?" she challenged.
"That girl is a princess as well as guardian to my daughter. I could not and would not let her die, you must understand that" the Moon Queen answered calmly.
"Your daughter? What about mine? She could receive serious punishment for this!"
"From whom? The dark kingdom has taken over most of the galaxy! Who will come to judge Ami-chan? No one! Unless you wish to do it yourself. Do you dare?" Serenity retaliated firmly.
"Of coarse not! But don't you understand? I have no control over her anymore, she'll never listen to me again unless you approve! I'm furious at her! No! I'm furious at you!" Saeko cried accusingly.
"What is this about? Are you angry because Ami-chan made her own decision or because I let her and not you? You know what awaits her, she needs security and strength to survive, you'll ruin her if this continues" Serenity said knowingly.
"Stay out of it, please. I'll allow her to make her own decisions as long as they are the right one's. She will not drown her beauty and intelligence in your wavering ideals. Never do what you did again. I'm a headache away from leaving the Moon and taking her with me, despite her apparent duties" the Mercurian woman threatened as she steamed away towards the doors.
"She'll die a lifeless girl or a bitter old woman if you don't let her be, you know this"
"I don't know what you're talking about, excuse me" Saeko said indifferently as she left the room. She barely got a glimpse of her daughter's gown disappearing into her room at the other end of the corridor. No longer aware of who she was angered with, the Queen stomped over to Ami's door.
"Ami-chan! Ami-chan!" - Saeko cried as she knocked. Her pleas were ignored as nobody answered. She turned the knob to find it was locked - "Ami-chan! We'll...speak later! Go to sleep, you looked terrible this morning! Don't distract yourself, get rest!" she hollered sounding almost friendly and wishing she had been heard. Taking small steps she backed away and left for her own room, wondering why it felt so difficult to be kind to her own daughter who feared her so much.
000
The five girls slept throughout the day, completely oblivious to the fact that the sky was now rising and the sun shun brightly, no longer hidden by dark and stormy clouds. The Moon's regular climate finally arrived, bringing with it a sunny but cold winter weather. Rei had easily fallen asleep though her distressed state after reliving her vision, she practically fainted on her bed but not before safely hiding her sword in one of the cabinets, hopeful she would forget it's whereabouts. Minako, who was initially energetic and prone to her mischievous rummaging of unknown trunks, had fallen asleep against her door while trying to barricade herself from Saeko's crazed screams.
Makoto, still too tired and weak to get up, barely began to understand her surroundings while she tried hard to defeat her exhaustion, in the end she fell practically unconscious again. Usagi, to no surprise, cried herself to sleep holding her locket; it was horrible and cheap, except it was actually made of pure gold, but to her it was the most beautiful thing she'd ever seen. And then, there was Ami. Initially she wanted to stay awake, just because her mother told her not to. But something struck her; it wasn't what she wasn't supposed to do that made her happy, it was what she wanted to do. And for the first time she agreed with the Queen and decided to rest.
Even Maiestas was too tired to manage his plans. Having given his Jovian soldier a powerful sedative in every drink he took, in case he didn't manage to reach the last bottle, assured him the soldier would sleep at least for a day and a half. He settled down promptly, despite his anxious thoughts towards Minako's actions and the trunks. He would be greatly disappointed if he missed what was to come next but the exhaustion was overbearing. He simply reassured himself that the blonde had also fallen under sleep's strong spell.
Saeko and Serenity shared an uncomfortable breakfast and lunch. Their shared topic, when suddenly discussed, was reaffirming it was best to leave the princesses' to rest and hope Makoto would feel better and join them for dinner, for the sake of all guardians to meet. The conversation was casual and respectful and though the Jovian topic was a thin string to pull, it never led to an aggressive discussion, as if nothing had happened both women held their burning tongues.
Evening sailed in, unusually calm after everything that had happened during those few days. The sun disappeared leaving a cold but gentle breeze into the Palace. The sky was low again as clouds invaded the blue horizon, bringing with them a sure snow during that night. The Mare Serenitatis began to freeze, a weak and moist layer of ice forming over it which brought relief to the people of the Moon, seeing their usual winter weather finally form after days of uncertainty. Like a ritual, the maids were quick to light unused sconces and drape the windows with thick but elegant curtains only used in that time of the season; it made the Palace much darker but definitely warmer. The servants, as usual, entered each occupied room to light the fireplaces. The princesses' went undisturbed, except for Minako who was pushed against the back, and awakened by a very ashamed maid trying to get in.
"It's alright, I should have been in bed" the blonde assured for the third time as the girl continued to apologize. The maid lit the fire quickly but badly before she finally left, bowing continuously in the process. Wanting to go back to sleep but feeling depressed for getting up at in the late evening, Minako decided it was best to save her tiredness for actual night. She stretched, an ache in her back piercing her, before deciding to finally take a bath. She stepped into the washroom, grateful a tub of steaming water was awaiting her.
"I still look sick..." Minako said as she stepped out of the washroom and looked herself in the mirror. She shrugged and began applying crushed roses on her cheeks which she kept in a small tin box. Satisfied with her false but livelier demeanor she dressed into a nice ocher dress, appropriate enough to greet and dine with anyone, if that was her immediate fate. With nothing left to do she sat on the bed expectantly waiting to be called for until she spotted the green and gold trunks tucked neatly in the corner of the room.
"She wouldn't mind..." the blonde said to herself as she made her way daringly to the luggage. She opened the first trunk, left in that order by Maiestas, and spotted on top of ragged clothes a wrapped box addressed to her. She felt too excited to notice the evident irony in such a discovery and was quick to rip the packaging in two. It felt even greater to disobey her enemy's demands. She pulled out a box from the shining paper and opened it to find a white and very elegant dress inside.
"Hm. Not really my taste..." Minako said as she inspected the small card again. She checked again to see that is was for her from the Jovian princess. It seemed odd since she had never met her, let alone met another Jovian or heard almost anything about them. Still, she appreciated the gesture and pulled out the garment.
"Perhaps it was meant for my mother..." the blonde questioned as she noticed the gown was much to large for her. She held it over her head and still the hem touched the ground. The assumption became realer as the fabric began to tingle in her hands, she examined the possibility that such an old garment could be filled with dust, if it was at one time meant for her mother. A soft knocking at the door made her lower the gift. "Who is it?" she asked ready to hide the evidence of her curiosity.
"It's just me, Ami-chan! I didn't wake you, did I?" came a shy voice from the other side of the door.
"No, it's alright! Come in!" Minako responded calmly and kindly, leaving the dress on the bed. The tips of her fingers felt like they had touched poison ivy.
Ami entered red in the face from embarrassment, she gave a small smile before closing the door "I'm sorry, I heard you awake from outside and I figured you were ready, is it alright?" she asked keeping herself safely by the door.
"Of coarse! I'm glad you're here! Step properly inside!" the blonde urged cheerfully, glad to see the other girl also bathed and clothed for dinner.
The blue haired girl stepped confidently forward and towards Minako. She noticed the wrapping paper, box and dress laying on the bed as well as the green and gold trunks in the corner. "Oh! Is that gown new? A present?" she asked gently but unsure since the color didn't really suit her Venusian friend.
The blonde hesitated before acknowledging the gift and smiling "Yes. It's from the Jovian princess. Very nice of her to give me such a beautiful gown. I just discovered it...on my bed. I was about to try it on..." she said untruthfully but too ashamed to reveal her prying.
"That was very nice of her" - Ami said feeling a tremendous effort to swallow, jealousy eating at her heart - "It looks a little large, no?" she commented a little too bitterly though the tone was only evident to herself.
"I don't know! I haven't tried it on!" Minako said nervously lifting her hands in the air.
"It's large enough to fit over the gown you're wearing, try it on, maybe the color suits you and you'll just have to get it fitted" the Mercurian suggested believing she was sounding supportive and not pushy. Hearing herself made it even more difficult to believe she felt nothing but joy for her friend.
The blonde, trapped between her lie and honesty, made the easiest decision "You're right! I'll try it on over my own dress! Perhaps it suits me!" she said eagerly but clearly distressed by the situation. For some reason, she didn't think Ami would have reacted this way which was why she hadn't decided to hide the gift. As Minako took the white garment and quickly placed it over herself, she wondered how her overly shy and respectful friend had managed to make her so nervous. She would have expected it from Usagi but not from Ami. Once the dress was on it was clear it didn't suit her, in any aspect. The hems of the collar, arms and bottom swung freely and ridiculously while the elegant whiteness in color made Minako seem old and off-putting.
"Are you sure the gift was for you? It seems terribly wrong..." Ami commented sounding a little rude. She realized this and gazed down, her hands fumbling with each other.
"It probably wasn't! I'm sure this was a mistake..." the blonde said hopefully, feeling just as embarrassed as her friend was. She quickly pulled the dress off, feeling her neck and hands begin to itch.
"All I meant was...the color and size...it doesn't seem for you...It was on your bed? addressed to you?" the blue haired girl asked still sounding weak and angered. She continued to try to swallow into her burning throat but found it hard until she could definitely leave the room.
"Yes but it was probably a mistake. Maybe they thought I was Queen Serenity. It seems like a gift for her" - Minako said urgently trying to defer the tension and subject - "Let's go see if dinner is ready, no?" she suggested kindly as she tossed the gown onto a wooden chair next to her.
Ami, finding a sudden distraction from her emotional worries, noticed the box on the floor was lined with various pieces of thin metal in it. It was strange but not as strange as said metal was crisped and brown gingerly tainting the foil. "Do you see that? The packaging, it's burnt" she commented curiously, her normally analytic tone taking over.
"Of coarse, it's just a change in atmosphere, it happened to my jewelry as well" Minako quickly said as she grabbed her genius friend and pulled her out, the burden and suspicion too much to handle. They left to room to find Rei already outside and waiting for someone to arrive.
"I heard you two in there. I've been knocking on this man's door for awhile" - the miko said trying to sound friendly as she directed herself towards Maiestas's smaller room - "I'm glad you appeared. I thought I'd go hungry again" she said amusingly. She looked at the to girls dressed in elegant dresses while she thought it was appropriate to dress in her holy miko attire. Biting her lip, Rei shrugged "Perhaps I should go change..." she said slightly lifting her red and white garment.
"No! It looks very well on you. Please, leave it on. It seems adequate" Ami quickly said, not completely lying since it was a nice outfit but mainly to avoid further tension and awkwardness from the blonde next to her.
"Really? Minako-chan?" Rei asked worriedly, not completely relying on the Mercurian's sense of taste.
"It's fine, leave it on" Minako answered without a single sincere glance, she still felt hurt after being thrown so rudely out of her hostesses' room. She tried to concentrate herself on the flickering flame of a torch only to begin scratching her neck nervously.
"We should maybe go down to the dining hall, it's seems dinner will be served soon" Ami said trying to break the strange feeling in the corridor.
"I thought so. That man, Maiestas? He knocked repeatedly on my door for me to get ready for dinner. Just now I came out and he won't answer. Apparently the Jovian princess feels strong enough to accompany us to eat. Wasn't she dead?" Rei questioned importantly and unconsciously touching her wounded arm.
"If she isn't then it will be important to meet her, no?" - Minako said bitterly as she grabbed Ami's unwanted arm and dragged her along the corridor, passing the miko with a smirk - "Besides, I should thank her for the gift she gave me" she murmured temptingly and clearly enough for the black haired girl to hear who followed them.
"She gave you a gift? Personally? According to Maiestas she's been bed sick until just now. What did she give you?" Rei asked as she walked behind the two arm locked friends.
"A gown, a very beautiful one" Minako answered mischievously awaiting with glee the reproach.
"We're almost certain it was a mistake. It much too large and definitely not appropriate for Minako-chan's taste. You must discreetly ask her about it at dinner, very discreetly" Ami said seriously and feeling her stomach turn at the thought of seeing Makoto again...and her mother.
"Then...you should ask her" Rei said slyly, seeing her blonde friend's jaw turn hard and tense. The three princesses continued their walk and slow step down the main stairway into the Great Hall. Escorted by several soldiers they entered the dining hall where they were met by Serenity, Usagi and Saeko at the far end of the long table. They filed in accordingly and almost on instinct; as Minako and Rei walked assuming they would be seating side by side as Ami made her way next to her mother.
"No, no! You! Minako-chan! sit next to my daughter. And you! Rei-chan! sit next to Usagi-chan!" Saeko demanded as the miko, as confused as her friend, sat where she was ordered. Serenity frowned at this but decided it was best to keep her mouth in the presence of the young girls.
"Are we here to meet the Jovian princess? Or will she be kept from us as well?" Usagi asked her mother bitterly, completely ignoring the shocked stares coming from her friends. Saeko simply scoffed.
"That's correct Usagi-chan. Makoto-chan is feeling well enough to join us. I dare to ask, how did you know? I was under the impression that you were told she was dead" Serenity said calmly but giving Maiestas, who was standing at the far corner of the room, a frightening glare.
"Ami-chan told me" the big tailed blonde answered defiantly, forgetting what she said was told in confidence. Ami quickly looked across the table at her, her eyes begging for silence.
"That's enough. This conversation may make our guest uncomfortable. I suggest we wait until she arrives before she continue" Saeko said quickly, her gaze falling on each princess at the table.
Rei mouthed a silent "what?" to Minako who was scratching her wrists and neck profusely making her blush when she noticed the attention. The blonde shrugged but gave her a pardoning smile for her previous attitude. The miko smiled back, feeling a strange heat rise in her cheeks. The pleasant moment was broken when the double doors of the Dining Hall were suddenly opened by two guards inside.
Serenity stood, followed by the rest of table. "Remember Usagi-chan, be kind and..."
"I know, I know. Be kind and respectful. You make me seem stupid each time you say that to me, I don't appreciate it" the blonde princess said to her mother sternly.
"If I thought you could implement it more often I wouldn't have to remind you" - Serenity whispered before directing herself to the arriving guest - "Good evening Makoto-chan. We're all extremely pleased you're feeling so much better. Ladies, this is Makoto-chan, princess of Jupiter" she announced motioning the girl over.
Makoto stepped in very shyly, a slight limp in her step as she tried straightening but failing; her posture undeniably angled on her left side. The brunette noticed how properly dressed everyone else was which made it hard to maintain a regal smile. She wore a simple white tunic over dangling beige pants, her feet covered by slip-shoes two sizes too large. The only thing which saved the horrible outfit was a plain black cloak she wore which, after seeing everyone's faces, Makoto was quick to use to shield her embarrassing demeanor.
Usagi began giggling, her mother standing beside her did not hesitate to smack her against the hand. The blonde pouted as she rubbed her aching limb, her prissy face fell when she received a reproachful look from Ami.
"I'm sorry, this is all I found in my room. I don't know where my trunks are" Makoto apologized as she approached the table and stood baffled, unsure of what to do. Her gaze traveled to the blue haired princess who quickly looked away, her face burning.
Minako, who was discreetly rubbing her itching wrists against the table, was about to comment on the trunks before she was surprisingly interrupted.
"I'll see to it that they are immediately sent to your chamber. The servants must have sent them to another room, forgive us" Maiestas said loudly from his spot in the corner. He noticed the blonde's scratching and realized he could safely take the trunks from her room.
"It's quite alright Makoto-chan, you are in kind company. Allow me to introduce everyone. We've already met so I'll skip myself" - Serenity said gently before motioning to the Queen beside her - "This is Saeko, Queen of Mercury. She has been taking care of you, she is a great healer".
Saeko gave the brunette a scornful look but nevertheless bowed respectfully.
"This here is my daughter, princess Serenity of the Moon..."
"You can call me Usagi-chan. I can lend you some clothes if you'd like. Though...you're very tall. How old are you?" Usagi said initially trying to mend her previous mocking but failing terribly by commenting on Makoto's obvious stature, despite her bent body.
"She is just as old as you. Jovians are naturally very tall. I'm sure Makoto-chan's trunks will be found and she'll be able to use her own clothes. Carrying on, this here is Rei-chan, princess of Mars. She too suffered an injury back on her planet, hopefully you two will find relief in each other from your experience" Serenity suggested as both girls bowed uncomfortably. Forcing them to bond made the idea hard to consider.
"That over there is Minako-chan, princess of Venus. She knows that Palace better than my own daughter so I trust she'll be kind enough to show you around, make you feel very welcomed"
Minako blushed and waved before returning to her scratching "Anything you need just ask, I'll be glad to help you settle in" she said kindly. Before she could inquire about the gift, she was interrupted again.
"And of coarse, this here is Ami-chan, daughter of Saeko and princess of Mercury. I believe you two have already met?" Serenity said grinning. The two girls blushed, barely able to look up as they nodded before bowing.
"She saved your life Makoto-chan, I hope you'll care for her as she has cared for you. Ami-chan will one day become a great healer, like her mother"
"I don't think this is proper conversation for the table. Please, sit princess" Saeko mumbled annoyed as she motioned the brunette to take a seat next to Rei.
Makoto was relieved as the wound on her side was starting to ache from standing so long. She placed a gentle hand over her ribs before slowly and carefully taking a seat. She caught Ami staring at her worriedly so she gave her a reassuring smile. The blue haired girl looked away but also smiled, unconsciously feeling her hot cheek. Ami looked back and was disappointed to see Makoto staring intently at Minako who sat in front of her.
"Are you alright?" the brunette asked a little too loudly bringing everyone's attention to Minako.
The blonde was frantically scratching her neck which was now red and swollen, contrasting with her pale demeanor. She stopped and grinned "Oh! It's only a rash, don't worry" she said addressing everyone.
"Are you sure? You look sick" Rei said noticing her friend's usually pink face was white as snow, she looked exhausted.
"I didn't sleep well last night, I'm just tired" Minako assured nervously. She tried to resist the urge to scratch but the itching became unbearable.
"You don't look well Minako-chan. Perhaps you should allow Saeko to examine you" Serenity suggested gravely.
"Please! I'm fine! I just need some food and rest later" the blonde replied a little too harshly.
"As you wish. I'll have some burdock root sent to your room for that rash" the Queen said softly, indifferent to her guest's sudden outburst. The room grew quiet except for the discreet maids beginning to serve soup and drink.
Serenity, feeling the atmosphere very tense, raised her glass "I hope you all find warmth and comfort in each other and that your stay is pleasant and homely" she toasted cheerfully. Her guests lifted their own glasses towards her before drinking.
"What about the Terrans when they come? Where will they stay?" Usagi asked very randomly, clearly her thoughts had been plagued by Mamoru which also made it very clear she had ignored the entire conversation leading up to that moment.
"Oh for heaven's sake! Is it really necessary to begin this discussion again? Nobody at this table wishes to hear this, I can assure you Usagi-chan! Not another word about it!" Serenity demanded angrily.
"But.."
A crash and loud thump stopped the Queen from scolding her daughter. Without warning, Minako had dropped her glass before falling unconscious to the floor. Everyone watched in shock as she began convulsing and twitching, a small pool of blood began to form around her head from the impact.
"Minako-chan!" Rei cried as she ran to her friend and held her uncontrollable body, everyone else still too amazed to move.
"What's wrong with her?" Usagi asked terrified and moments away from crying.
Maiestas was quick to reach the fallen girl. Pushing the miko away, he began examining the swollen and red rashes on Minako's wrists and neck. He knew perfectly well what he was looking for and took his time for the sake of seeming genuine.
"Where is her guardian? He must be here!" Saeko announced urgently.
"Artemis? He won't be back until tomorrow. Why does it matter?" Serenity said anxiously as she began towering over the old man and Minako.
"He's her guardian! He must know what's wrong with her!" the Mercurian Queen protested as she too came closer to the sickly girl.
Noticing Saeko so close, Maiestas raised his hand dramatically "She's been poisoned!" he declared.
"Poisoned? By what? The wine?" Usagi demanded as she looked at her glass with fear, leading everyone else to do the same.
"No. She's been poisoned through the skin. A piece of clothing she's worn, I'm almost certain" the evil man assured somberly though a small grin curled his lips.
"What?" Ami cried loudly, luckily she went ignored. She snapped her gaze towards Makoto who was bending over the table with difficulty trying to see what was going on. Green eyes locked into blue one's. The brunette saw how intently Ami was looking at her so she simply shrugged and bit her lip innocently.
"Well? Is she going to be alright?" Rei asked shaking.
"She'll live. The amount of poison was too little" - Maiestas answered bitterly - "though she will be enabled for some time" he added as comfort for himself.
"I want the princess's room immediately searched and whatever poisoned her found! Burn down the Palace if you have to but find who's responsible for this! Now!" Serenity, panting with rage, shouted to the guards standing apprehensively in the dining hall. They quickly filed out, creating a sudden panic from the soldiers outside.
"It can't be..." Ami whispered as she inspected Makoto who looked worried but calm enough, she couldn't possibly have had anything to do with the poisoned dress. Her mind raced and slowly her gaze fell on Maiestas.
000
I hope you enjoyed the chapter. I took a little longer but winter break will give me more time to write. Please review and tell me what you think. Suggestions, critique and questions are gladly welcomed. Enjoy the holidays!