Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon or associated characters.
AN: My wife called me a review whore… What does that even mean? Well, anyhow, back to the real story. In answer to some questions, asked and/or unasked, no. His memories and his current situation are unrelated, they served to be insight on why his people adore him. Serenity was somewhere else during this time. Part of the plot, can't give it away.
This was planned to be a monstrosity from, say, about chapter three. At first, it was just an idea to play around with. But the ideas keep rolling in. I really don't see an end in sight, so if you enjoy reading this story, then you're in luck! Enjoy this chapter!
Chapter 8: Problems of State
Endy didn't even know that he had been missing something, until that something was placed right in front of him. Even now, with her across his room tidying up, he could feel the emptiness creeping back up on him. Serenity banished it when she was close, but being away for too long left him aching for her. It was a strange sensation to crave someone, especially for him. He hadn't needed anybody for as long as he could tell. Of course it was nice to have people around to help, but with the Jadeite business, he didn't really know who he could trust now.
Even Serenity. But she didn't do anything to warrant suspicion.
Neither had Jadeite. He roughly shoved that bastard out of his mind, not wanting to soil the image of Serenity with association.
What could I do to get her over here again? He thought to himself. He had already used the fever excuse twice today, and it wasn't even noon yet! Both times she had felt his forehead and declared him fever free. Of course the brief touches left him wanting even more. She had fetched him water several times, which lead to him needing to use the privy. He had complained of an itch that he couldn't reach, or for soup left for him that morning. He did all those things just to bring her closer to him.
I'm acting silly. I need to focus at the problem at hand. Jadeite. He thought, surly.
He sat up straighter and looked over to Kunzite, Nephrite, and Zoisite. All three were standing at attention, awaiting his thoughts on the subject they were discussing.
"Rotate them, then. The harvest shouldn't suffer too much, but the volunteers need to be relieved. I want to discuss Jadeite, now. What has been done so far?" Endy's eyes narrowed when he brought up the traitor's name.
Kunzite's face scrunched up as he took a breath to answer, while Nepthrite shook his head and Zoisite put his face into his hands.
All of a sudden, Endy's bedroom door exploded open, revealing the king standing in the doorway. The king strode into the room breathing heavily, honing in directly on Endy. Kunzite let out his breath in a grateful sigh as he and the other captains bowed. Serenity turned around to see who it was. Upon seeing that it was the king, she dropped herself into a perfect curtsy, and then busied herself with rearranging the things on the table again. Endy chuckled silently at her still present nervousness around people, but knew that it would be problematic later.
"Endymion! My son, you're awake! Why didn't you send anyone to get me?" the king huffed. He pulled the young man into a bear hug and held him for a few moments. Abruptly, the king held Endy at arm's length to study him. "I think Makoto has some work to do," he said, eyeing Endy's reduced frame.
"I… Father! Are you okay?" Endy noticed the old man's red eyes. Through all the feelings of hurt and betrayal from Jadeite, he never considered how other people would feel about him being poisoned. Now he felt like dirt, lower than dirt. He should have considered things like this instead of being hell-bent on getting revenge.
"Of course I'm okay! You're alive. We thought we lost you a couple of times. Azumi didn't even think you would make it. The heavens have answered my prayers and saved you!" for an unknown reason to Endy, the king shot a quick glance to Serenity's back, then back to his son. "I've been so worried about you. My only son…" the king broke down into sobs, pulling Endy back into a rib-creaking hug.
"Father, need… air!" Despite his desperate requirement for breath, Endy wrap his arms around his father. Patting his back, Endy took pleasure in the simple bond that only family seemed to share. His father's embrace brought him warmth, and a feeling of everything turning out right. Over the king's shoulder, Endy caught a glimpse of Serenity's face. She had a small smile while watching the two share the heartfelt moment.
Come to think of it, this bond is almost like the one I share with her. But also vastly different… What does it mean?
"Endy, there is more," the king released him while recovering his composure. "I have news from a messenger that arrived this morning. Originally, I wouldn't have alerted you. But due to my interfering and promises, I felt it prudent to tell you as soon as possible."
Endy laid back against his pillows, awaiting the interesting news the king had hinted at in a strange way. Everyone in the room took on an expectant posture while awaiting the king's words. Seconds ticked by as the king reached a hand up to his head and scratched. Almost a full minute went by before Endy exploded.
"Well, what is it?" his face had a slight red tinge to it. Only his father could get under his skin this fast.
"It's not good news for you or me," the king's expression took on a decidedly unhappy cast. "Do you know Princess Minako?"
"I think I do. Isn't she the daughter of King Kenichi and Queen Isabella? From Gonfuto down south?" he asked.
"Yes. That's her. Well, she'll be here to court you in about five days," the king looked ready to bolt from the room. Serenity made a slight choking noise and Endy's captains let out gasps of relief.
Endy surprised all of them by letting out a hearty laugh. "That's what had you worried? It's not such a big deal. Just tell her that you have someone in mind for me already."
"It's not so simple, Endy. You were only back for a day before you fell ill. I didn't get the chance to fill you in on what I started while you were away. I started to form an alliance with some of the kingdoms on our borders. Gonfuto was the first and most adamant about the idea. Treaties are being written up as we speak. This could be an even bigger step forward then anything we have accomplished so far. But it looks like King Kenichi wanted to seal the alliance even tighter with a marriage. Just blatantly refusing could cause new tensions. I'm so sorry, my son." The king hung his head in shame as he finished.
"What? No plots or anything sneaky prepared for such an event?" Endy just talked to fill the dead space that had overcome the room. His father slowly shook his head. Serenity was sitting in a chair with all color drained from her face. He understood her thoughts instantly. What would happen to her if he married this princess? Take her on as a servant? A secret mistress?
No, that's not good enough for her…
His eyes lit up as an idea sparked in his mind. "Just tell her I'm too ill to be courted right now. Surely news of my poisoning has spread?" While his captains all started nodding in response to his question, his father slowly shook his head.
"No good. By the rate you're improving, you'll be just fine by the time she arrives. You couldn't avoid at least meeting her, and then she'll be able to tell that you're not ill anymore." Damn his father for being able to think of everything!
Serenity was crying silently in her chair. The sight pulled roughly at his emotions, and before he knew what he was doing, he was struggling to the edge of the bed and stood. Mostly successful. Looking like a drunken sailor in only his under trousers, he made his way over to the agonizing angel.
"Don't cry, Serenity," he said as he cupped the side of her face. "There's nothing to worry about." Large, cerulean eyes stared up into his. They almost seemed to have their own special glow. A thought struck him.
Father glanced at her when he thanked the gods for saving me. Does he know about her glowing when I first woke up? He knows of a special ability she has! I know he does!
A smile graced his lips as he wiped away her tears with a thumb. Her return smile made his head spin. It was too late when he realized it wasn't only her smile that had made him dizzy, but his lack of strength that had come back to draw him back into darkness.
The last six days had been nerve racking for Endy. Not only had the fainting spells continued throughout his recovery, but Princess Minako was late as well. Today would be day seven since the king had broken the news to him. Scouts had been sent out every day for the last three days to check on the progress of the visiting monarch. Reports came back that she was behind schedule, stopping in towns that had inns and traveling by carriage.
Endy created an image of an obese, warty maiden who expected everyone to bow and scrape to her whims just because she was high born. Or at least he hoped that would be the case. It would be a lot easier to turn her down if she was rotten. He knew better, though, all nobles traveled like her. He couldn't base anything on how she traveled. A scout returned late the day before to report that Princess Minako would be at the palace the next day.
Now Endy stood in the throne room, nervously shuffling his feet, awaiting the entrance of the foreign Princess. Serenity stood barely a foot away. At first, the king wanted Serenity to hide. But Endy put that idea out the window immediately. He told his father that he had a plan and it didn't matter if the Princess knew about Serenity.
Endy said he had a plan, but on reflection, he really didn't have anything. He was just going to tell the Princess the truth and hope it wouldn't ruin relations with Gonfuto. Rather, hoping to start the treaties on a good trend, honesty.
Serenity had contented herself with just wrapping one arm around his elbow. Much to his relief. He had feared that she would cling to him, making his task more difficult. The king sat on his throne which was on a dais, eyeing Serenity. He knew his father still didn't approve of his 'plan', thinking he would muck up the delicate phase of negotiations.
People don't make friends by lying to them! Endy thought, angrily.
He thought back, to the days he took recovering. Even though the fainting spells hadn't completely disappeared, they had increasingly more time between them. Yesterday had been the first day that he hadn't lost consciousness since waking up. Then there was Serenity's special ability. He hadn't had the chance to talk with his father about it yet and he didn't want to bring it up to her in case she didn't want him to know about. From all the stories about how bad the poisoning had been, he considered that she might have a healing ability she used to save him. His fears and doubts about her had vanished when he thought of that. Someone walking up to the dais brought him back to the present.
Endy stood at his proper place, at the bottom of the dais off to the right. Serenity stood to his left. Court was in session, so the room was filled with a bunch of sycophants and petitioners. Endy preferred the merchants that came to ask for trade rights or clear a dispute. The minor nobles that came to flatter the king and waste his time almost drove him into a rage at times. Mostly, he tuned them out.
"…brilliant idea! I think I would be most adept at regulating the new trade routes and toll collections this treaty will bring. I ask that you consider myself for such a non-descript position to serve you, your Majesty," the latest flop was ending his request as he started to pay attention. Endy gave a soft snort. Some flattery and asking for an appointment that would guarantee more income, nothing original. Endy glanced at the king to see his reaction. A lazy flick of the wrist sent the noble scurrying back to his gaggle of peers.
That toady bastard should be thankful I'm not king yet. He would've gotten more than just a cursory dismissal, Endy fumed. The next man caught his interest, though. He didn't seem to be either a noble or a merchant. Craftsmen and farmers also came to court occasionally, but the man didn't look like one of them either.
"My Lord. I have returned from the task you have sent me on. I have a report waiting for you at your leisure," the non-descript man said as he straightened from his bow.
"Glad you are back, Umino. Just give me the gist of your report, then I read it later," the king sat up for this petitioner.
"Yes, your Majesty," Umino bowed again, "After two months of following leads, I have found a lot about Serenity. Much of my time was wasted by bad information, but when I came across a story, more of a local legend, I was sure I found what I needed. If you remember Hanerog, my Liege?" He paused for an affirmation of his question.
Endy vaguely remember something about that kingdom. It was conquered around the time he was born, by Okuhin if he remembered correctly. But what did this have to do with Serenity? Why was the king researching her past? The king gave his nod for Umino to continue, oblivious to Endy's questioning look.
"Well, the stories the slaves told was that of Hanerog and the days before Okuhin invaded. They told of the beautiful Queen Selenity and how peaceful her kingdom was. Also, how kind people were to one another. Some thought that was one of the reasons Okuhin invaded, easy pickings. Oh! Sorry, I was getting off track. Seems like Queen Selenity was kept as a slave for a while before she died. A strong rumor told of her getting pregnant and having a beautiful girl, named Serenity," Umino finished in a rush.
Endy's mind was shocked and in over drive at the same time. Serenity just stood there wide eyed and mouth agape.
"I thought as much. Did you get any supporting documentation?" the king replied calmly.
"Alas, my Lord. There is none to be had. Unless you want me to attempt to break into the King of Okuhin's palace? That's where Queen Selenity got pregnant," Umino gave a shrug, but looked ready to do what he just proposed.
"No, I don't think that would be necessary. Go get refreshed and we'll see you at the welcoming banquet tonight," the king inclined his head to the researcher before turning to Serenity. "It seems that you are a more important guest then we thought, Princess Serenity. I offer my palace as your asylum until you figure out what you would like to do."
"I… Yes, your Majesty, thank you," she squeaked, squirming closer to Endy. New thoughts and ideas ran through Endy's mind, processing the newfound information. He didn't like some of the ideas that came to mind, but his father had told him that to be a good ruler, he would need to consider all possibilities. He glanced down at Serenity to see how she was taking the shock of learning that she really is a princess. Her eyes were wide and she just leaned her forehead against his arm. He thought that she might be happier, but he understood her enough that he could see why she wasn't.
"Endymion, I hope you see the uses this information provides," the king addressed him. Endy looked up and saw the calculating gleam in his eyes. "Does this change your plan at all?"
"Not in the least. It only serves to reinforce it," he replied. He didn't blame his father for thinking as he did. It's what made him such a great king. But he felt a strange sort of possessiveness of Serenity and would be damned if the king tried to maneuver her away. "I don't think…"
"King Ranma, Prince Endymion, Ladies and Gentlemen of the court, Goodmen and Goodwomen of Forve! May I present Princess Minako of Gonfuto!" the crier shouted from the double doors, swiftly pulling them open.
Four, unarmed guards in Gonfuto uniforms marched into the room. The girl who came after them shattered Endy's preconception of the princess. She could've been Serenity's older sister. Her hair was more of a buckwheat color and not as long. Her eyes were a darker blue but not as dark as his. She was taller and walked with a confidence that Serenity lacked. The one major difference was the beauty of the two. Serenity had an angelic quality, while Minako had more of an earthly beauty.
"Oooff," wind rushed out of his lungs as Serenity landed an elbow in his side. He had been staring at the Princess too much for her to be comfortable. "You violent, little minx…" he whispered at her, but let off as Minako came closer. Her eyes paused a moment as they roamed over him, but they ended up on the king. A few feet away from Endy, she gave a deep curtsey and held it.
"Good King Ranma, I am Princess Minako. Daughter of King Kenichi and Queen Isabella of Gonfuto. My father has entrusted me with binding authority in matters of the new alliance being formed. Also,… um… King Kenichi… ahh… would like to… um… extend my hand in marriage to Prince Endymion!" she stuttered over the beginning of her last sentence, but the last few words came out in a tumble. Endy suddenly considered the fact that maybe Princess Minako didn't have a choice in the whole ploy.
That will make it easier. Although, she is cute. Maybe she'd make a good friend, he thought.
"Rise, Princess Minako. Welcome to my country and home. Please let us know if we can make your stay more comfortable. I look forward to working with you on the Alliance. Let me introduce my son, Endymion," the king held a hand towards him, ignoring the offer made. Endy executed a bow suitable for a visiting monarch. Then he dragged Serenity out from where she was trying to scoot behind him.
"I am Prince Endymion. Please feel free to call me Endy, though. This is my companion, Princess Serenity," he said with a smile. Serenity looked side to side for an escape, looking like she was in a panic.
"Oh, I wasn't informed about your…" Minako looked at the casual way Endy had his hand on Serenity's shoulder, "engagement?"
She looks mortified! I would be too if I was sent to another kingdom to marry a princess and found that she had another already. I should make her feel better.
"I'm not sure, yet. It's a rather awkward situation right now. But, she is my guest and good friend," he said. He couldn't tell how his words affected Serenity as she was standing in front of him, facing Minako.
"I'm not sure I understand. I haven't heard your name before, Princess Serenity. What Kingdom do you hail from?" Minako seemed quick to change topics.
"I, um… Hanerog?" Serenity's voice quavered some.
"May I escort you ladies to a more comfortable surrounding? My father still needs to conduct court," Endy interrupted. "By your leave, sire?" he bowed to the king.
"Dismissed. See to our guests." His father already had a bored look on his face as the next petitioner was introduced. Endy gently took the elbows of both ladies and led them from the throne room, with Minako's guards trailing behind.
The room was large. At least twice the size of his bedroom. Bookshelves lined two of the walls, while maps hung on the other two. A table that sat eight took up a portion of the room. A few padded chairs were scattered by the fireplace, but the main focus of the room was the huge desk that occupied the space before the window. A spread out map of southern Forve and a few books littered the surface of the desk. Other than those few things, the room was tidy.
"Excuse me for the mess. I haven't been in here since before I left to deal with a revolting garrison," Endy said as he rolled up the map. He left the map on the desk, but took the books over to the bookshelf and put them away. Both girls were already making themselves comfortable in the chairs by the fireplace.
"Do not your servants come in to clean?" Minako inquired.
"To dust and sweep, but nothing else. If they put things away and I couldn't find them, I'd be cross. I don't like people cleaning up after me much," he said with a sheepish grin. Serenity giggled at him, livening up her face. His grin turned into a full smile when he looked at her while taking the seat between the two princesses.
"Ah! I remember now," Minako shifted her focus to Serenity, "Hanerog was conquered by Okuhin a long time ago, was it not? I don't believe I've heard of a survivor of that royal house either. How is it that you've come to claim the crown of Hanerog?"
While it seemed more like curiosity than any sort of malice, Endy could see that it was affecting Serenity negatively. He thought of how she had just learned of her mother that morning and felt he could relate well to her.
"That is actually a pretty involved story," Endy said and then paused, wanting to leave it at that for now. Minako stared at him, expectantly.
Nothing is ever easy, he thought as he ran a hand through his hair.
"It started back when I got home from my campaign. I missed my birthday by a couple weeks and father had a surprise waiting for me. There's something you should know about my father and me. We have a difference of opinion when it comes to women. After my mother's death, a long time ago, my father started being… loose with women. He has never forced one to be with him, but his views are not my own. He's been trying to get me to take a woman for a while, now. But, I just don't feel that is the way to do those types of things. Because of that, I usually avoid women, using either my position or duty as an excuse. I just don't want to play his game. This time my father cornered me with a devious ploy. He had six slaves waiting for me to pick out one…"
"So right before you entered the throne room, Umino filled us in on all of his research on Serenity. It seems as though Queen Selenity became pregnant with Serenity when she was a slave to the King of Okuhin. So it was just today we found out she is a princess," he finished his long narrative with a sip of wine. Servants had come in during his story with trays of fruits and cheese, jugs of wine, water, and juice. All three of them had their fill during the story. Of course he left out some parts that concerned Serenity. Those moments were private and didn't need to be shared.
"Oh," Minako said, "So the King went against his own policies and bought six slaves to have you pick one? Then the one you pick turns out to be a princess? Sounds like a story out of a book." Even though her words sounded doubtful, her eyes had gotten all starry from the supposed romance of it all.
"Except the stories don't hurt," he replied, glumly.
"I didn't mean to sound like I don't believe you! It's just hard to take all of that all at once. The last three months of your life had enough adventure for anyone's lifetime," she tried to mollify him, offering a sweet smile.
Serenity narrowed her eyes at the gentle flirting. Without thinking, Endy placed a hand on top of hers to mollify her. Minako's smile faltered a bit at his action, causing some tension in the room. Serenity surprised him by speaking up.
"I hope we can be friends. Prince Endymion has been my only friend and it's wonderful. Another would be great," she gave a tentative smile and held out a hand to her. Minako caught it in both of her own and giggled in excitement.
"I don't have many friends at home, either. Being a princess isn't very fun sometimes. I hope we all can be good friends!" Minako's smile got even wider.
"I'd like that," Serenity said softly.
"Me too," Endy added.
"This is wonderful. To tell the truth, I didn't really want to come on this diplomatic envoy. My father told me I had to come. I'm not much of a negotiator, so I think the main reason he sent me was to offer me to you. I don't think he anticipated Serenity," Minako said, thoughtfully.
"I don't think King Kenichi sent a request to that effect. It isn't good manners to deceive a friend in the making. Please pass that on to your father when you return, but also let him know that we are looking forward to working with your kingdom," Endy delivered a gentle rebuke.
Minako had the good grace to blush and tried to cover it up by slipping a cube of cheese into her mouth. Serenity started to look decidedly unsteady, sipping from her cup again.
"Serenity! Are you drinking wine?" Endy asked, concerned.
Her face was beginning to flush and she gently rocked side to side. She answered with a big grin. "I… sum. Tast lic fruuuit…" He let out a sigh while Minako giggled again.
The long morning had taken its toll on him. He felt drained, still recovering from the poison. Not wanting to chance anything, he decided to excuse himself until the dinner banquet his father was throwing in Princess Minako's honor.
"Excuse me, Princess Minako. I'm still recovering from the poisoning. I can have servants show you to your rooms where you can freshen up. My father will have a grand supper planned in honor of your arrival and I'll see you there," he smiled as he bowed. Serenity tried to stand as well, but fell ungracefully back into her seat. She gave Endy a pathetic look while reaching a hand out to him.
"I can help Princess Serenity to her room, before I go to mine," Minako offered, standing to help Serenity up.
"She… umm… she shares my rooms with me," he looked away, sheepishly.
Minako covered her mouth with one hand as she gasped. "I thought you two were not married…?" He gave a shake of his head. "Is it normal to do these types of things here?" Again, he answered with a shake. "But… After all that talk of treating women well, you just follow in your father's footsteps? I've judged you wrongly. You are a vulgar man, Prince Endymion." Her words came out angrily and she faced away from him on top of that.
"Hey, now! I have never impeded on Serenity's honor! She just has to stay close to me because of my father's order. Don't judge what you can't fully understand," his temper flared up quickly, making his words forceful. She spun back toward him, ready to say more, but froze when she saw the rage painted on his face.
"It just doesn't seem decent," she complained, looking defeated.
"We all do what we must. I would never hurt Serenity in any way," his words softened to a calmer tone. "Please excuse me. I'm rather tired and it has affected my good manners. I hope to talk with you more at the banquet tonight."
Minako nodded, accepting his apology for his outburst. "Might I help you with Serenity to your rooms, then?"
He looked at Serenity, leaning back into the chair, half asleep. "My rooms are only a few doors down the hall, but yes. Your help would be welcome."
AN2: There is so much more! Too bad I can't write for a living. Hey look! Another drinking incident, ha ha ha. Please enjoy this chapter and there are many more to follow. Also, let me know of any mistakes, grammar or otherwise. Serenity's special ability will be talked about more in the next chapter. Thank you to everyone who reviews, and even to those who don't. I just want to entertain the world!