Seeking Love

Chapter 24

It was as if she hadn't left the bath tub in the last 24 hours, here she was again. She could see the steam rise around her, but she still felt like an unmelting ice cube sitting in boiling water.

Since her mother had told her of the engagement to the Prince of Earth, it had been a whirlwind. Her mind traced back to the first day she had landed on the Earth's surface, the blue sky racing by beneath her window. She couldn't tell the difference between falling and flying at the time. Then Takeshi found himself at her feet, literally. The first kiss they shared underneath the night lights seemed so long ago. Now, thinking back, how could she have not seen the signs of his betrayal, they were all there literally in front of her? In a way, it wasn't a betrayal - more just her stupidity. Serenity grabbed for her loufa and started scrubbing at her feet up to her ankles. Then there was Kunzite to think about. A small smile spread across her face when she remembered her many conversations with him. He was a pain in her side, but only the type that comes after laughter.

Now, here she was - Takeshi was gone. She was all too grateful that nobody else got hurt. Her hands were grazing the surface of the water, sweeping across it's serine surface. It brought back the feelings of the surging energy from her last battle. Whose hands were these? Surely not hers. What power laid within her? She had completely lost control of her body - She had lost time.

The engagement party was in a few days. There was so much to prepare. Ceremonies and traditions that needed to be done before the actual engagement could even be announced! All part of the extravagant life of a royal. Thank goodness Mina had all the party planning skills at her disposal. All Serenity wanted to do was wrap herself in soft blankets, fall into a deep sleep and forget about the world around her. Unfortunately, having the title of Princess didn't allow you to do that.

"AGAIN!" Endymion yelled out at his sparring partner. It was all he could do in his spare time but train. He had humiliated himself at the White Forest, not just in front of his generals - but to himself. How he loathed that day. He had failed at a true test of his whit and skill. What was he doing?! Was he really ready to wear the crown? Let alone get married.

Thoughts of the past months were also running through his mind. That man, Takeshi, his aura was pure beast instinct. How could a being reach such a state of pure savagery? Then racing alongside those thoughts was Mina! The power that surged from her. It was pure electric energy. It was life, it was danger. How and when was he ever going to explain that cave explorations to her without sounding like a whack? She'd think he hadn't recovered from his 'torture.'

To add more things to his overflowing plate, his project back at home was falling to pieces. There was still a missing step towards rejuvenating the lower class and help them gather cleaner water. He hadn't even thought about it in the last week, and it was the one thing that he had dedicated his last 3 years of his life to. Seriously, what had he become! Then.. the cherry on top.. Natsumi. She was still in the city somewhere. He wasn't sure if he was ready to see her. There were too many questions, too many events, too much engulfing him at once. He was drowning in the chaos. So, all there was to do was fight.

The clanking of metal resounded in the practice room. The type of training could be considered old school, but it got his mind off of things. It brought back order, and a sense of logic to his life. Jadeite stepped into a deep lung forward, he was about to constrict the Prince into the corner against the wall. Endymion's hair was out of sorts and completely soaked from the exercise. He had ordered no helmets for this match, because he needed to feel the urgency of making that decision between life and death. To feel that primal fear that had been coursing through him like it did at the forest. What could make him feel like that again? The technique to fight Jadeite was already second nature to him, but nothing of use when it came to fighting outside of the ring and set rules.

Twirling his wrist and catching Jadeite's crossguard, he wrenched it out of his man's hand.

"You have me beat once again." Jadeite huffed out. They had been at it for hours. He didn't even bother to find a chair, and collapsed to the ground. "You can't fight forever. Don't you think it's time to give it a rest?"

"You don't understand. I'm not ready. I'm not ready for any of this."

Jadeite shot a quizzical look at Enymion. "What do you mean you're not ready? I'm assuming you're talking marriage, and not combat skills."

"No! I mean, ready to rule! Ready to take on the Universe and those lurking in it's shadows. I'm not saying I'm backing down. I just... need more time."

"Time. You will never have enough time. If you really feel that insecure, I'll contact an old friend - a master of the arts per-say. I'm sure he can find where your block is, because I for one am worn out."

Endymion helped the man up. Leaning against each other they headed for the door. Conveniently it opened on it's own and revealed none other than a hyperactive Nephrite with brown frizzled hair.

"BOYS! I have good news from our Ms. Makoto. One of our problems has been answered by the Gods.. well, the party planner Gods! Apparently, on the Moon - it is custom to have themes for all the events. So... the engagement ball is going to be a masquerade! That means masks, costumes, and above all else - drinks all around!"

Endymion didn't know if he had the capacity in himself to punch Nephrite in the face, or restrain himself and walk away.

Earth Year: 22nd Century 58th Earth Cycle

Her mind was closed off to the world. No sound, no sight. In her mind's eye, she pictured herself in front of a mirror, but when she looked at herself there was nothing but a black abyss. Then she began to think of a person. She didn't search for the shape of their nose, or the color of the hair. What came to mind was the texture of their tweed jacket, the smell of coffee lingering on their breath, and the sharpness of the persons wit. Then opening her eyes she found herself looking at a real mirror held by Sir. A middle aged man looked back. A nine o'clock shadow, brown eyes and hair, about 5'9'', and looking just as flabbergasted as she felt. It worked! All the hard work over the past year finally paid off, and she could do it. She checked her body. No discolored skin patches, extra toes, and most of all she didn't feel any discomfort. For the first time she didn't feel like she had stepped into a miniature box, but more like a skin tight bodysuit made especially for her.

"Congratulations Natsumi. Look at you." Sir said, as he began to slowly clap his rough hands together in success.

She couldn't help but let a small smile slip onto her face. This was one thing she had done in her life that she could feel accomplished at. It was what made her special.

"Sir, just one question."

"Go ahead."

"Am I going to have to drink that awful mixture you make every time?"

"Yes Natsumi. It's part of the process. Blood and chocolate. Blood is the reactor, and chocolate - well that helps it go down."

Natsumi's face held still. She knew not to show such emotions of distaste, but she had been drinking... blood? She had beaten and almost killed boys twice her age, but the idea of digesting another's blood made her want to puke.

Present Day

United Galaxy Conference 10:00am

"To order! To order!" called the Mediator. "Representative from the Moon Kingdom, the stand is yours."

All 1,000 eyes followed the elegant figure up to the podium. Her pure white hair stood out against the plethora of blue and black suits. Only a few ruffles of papers and clicks of pens could be heard next to the lady's graceful steps forward. Her voice carried no hesitation, and only of the strongest demeanor and poise.

"This conference has gone on long enough. Many points have been brought up about the possibilities of war, but let me remind you! We may not know who our enemy is, but this war is no longer teetering on the edge! It is only imminent! I expect many of you to already know this, but there was another attack against the Moon Kingdom. Not only against my beloved home, but also against the heir to the Earth Kingdom's crown. If this does not raise alarms in your scribbling notes, I am afraid to ask what will. We must stop the bickering among ourselves, we must stop thinking of just ourselves as individual nations, but as one strong force that will stand strong together for our families, our loyalties, and above all else - the future of this Galaxy. For this conference is NOT called anything else but the UNITED Galaxy Conference. United! As we should be acting right here and now!"

There was only silence after her last words, but slowly one by one an applause rose in her favor. Queen Serenity stepped down, and started her walk towards her seat.

"SHOPPING!" Mina cried out. The girls were drinking tea out in the greenhouse. Things had calmed down, but only on the surface. To get everyone's mind off of the past few days, Mina decided she was going to force everyone to go find their masquerade costumes for the ball taking place in two days.

"Not surprised at your... enthusiasm," said Rei as she rolled her eyes.

"Can't you just go for me Mina? You already know what size I am, and you choose my outfits for me already!" pleaded Ami. "I have system updates and patches I need to run and install before the ball!"

"You two are no fun!" Mina pouted. "At least I have Makoto and Princess Serenity on my side."

Makoto just sat there crossed eyed as Serenity gave her a meek smile.

"Fine, I'll just go by myself! and... with all the generals." That got the girls' attention, and soon each gave in to Mina's pleading.

A big sign loomed over the large group. LORI'S COSTUME SHOPPE. The place had just opened a few months ago, just in time to service all those going to the Royal's party.

"Come in! Come in!" A lady waved from inside. She had bright red overflowing curly hair. It was all tied up on the top of her head with a bright yellow canary scarf. She was a well rounded sort of woman, plump, but her smile was just as big - as was probably her cash drawers. "Hello! Hello! Welcome to my beautiful shop. I am of course, Lori. You do not look like any ordinary people off the street. If I had to guess, you all must be going to the Moon's Masquerade ball."

Moon Masquerade. Mina quite liked the sound of that. "We are actually the hosts," specified Mina. "My soldiers and I need statement pieces, the most daring you have. Then those gentlemen over there also need some.. inspiration." Mina pulled the wide eyed lady aside, "You see, they're from Earth, and to be quite truthful - have no idea what fashion is these days."

"Ahhh... I think I know what you are getting at umm.. then you must be Princess Serenity I assume?" Lori asked.

"Oh dear, you can call me Serenity." Mina continued to introduce the rest of the party.

"Well, as I was saying. I just finished some designs last night. Let me call out my assistant from the back, and she will take care of the men. We can't have you all knowing who is who, 'tis a masquerade for heavens sake!"

The five girls were bustled to the left side of the cluttered shop. Half dressed mannequins, boas, glitter, animal skins, and all kinds of fabrics covered the tight aisles. How the owner kept it all organized in her head was just a big of mystery as it was who would be dressing up as whom.

The five men were left starring at the colorful shop by the door when a call came out from the back. "This way boys!" Each one tilted to the side to see who was calling to them, but nobody was to be found. "Over here," yelled the voice again. They walked through the maze of clothing, following the sound. Endymion was leading them all, and pushing a neon green jump suit out of the way, he came face to face with Natsumi.

"Hi! How can I assist you today?" she said with a grin of mischief glued to her face.

There were too many options. Lori had sat them all down around her redwood round table. She hefted out a binders full of sketches. Mina immediately picked up a drawing exclaiming how it was meant to be, and Lori began taking down measurements.

"You should be a bunny Serenity!" suggested Rei in a teasing tone. "You could have ears, and a cute little furry tail."

"You can be a little devil!" replied Serenity. "I think it'd fit your personality." She cocked her head in a smile.

"I'm thinking about a robot of some sort. Maybe look like an artificial being," said Ami to try to break up the beginnings of their argument.

"That'd be... you." Makoto said in agreement with Ami. "I want to be... a souffle." Her mouth was already watering at the thought of it.

"You girls need to be serious about this!" Mina called over her shoulder as her waist measurements were being taken. "Classy people. Classy!"

Endymion didn't know what to say to Natsumi. She didn't confront him, so he just went with her act. He couldn't quite introduce her to his generals! He finally was left alone one on one with her when she started fitting him in a black tux. The tails on the one he had on were a tad too long.

"Surprise!" She whispered into his ear as she took his collar measurements.

"What are you doing here? You come down to visit, and then get a job?!" he stammered out of a closed mouth. He didn't want to be too loud.

"Well, you left me all alone out here while you were in that castle... Kunzite. What else was I suppose to do with my time darling? I didn't know you protected the Prince of Earth!" She began fixing the fit in his shoulders.

"I know, I know. I haven't been as truthful as I should have been with you. You need to understand though, I had to keep my job away from you... for security.. and what not. I'm sorry I didn't give you much notice, but to be honest - I'm just a little flustered."

"FLUSTERED? I should be the one flustered. You bring me to the Moon, then you practically forget about me. I find out in the newspapers that you're actually an Earth General, and you expect me to just sit and be merry. I should poke in the eye with one of these needles right here and now!"

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry!" Endymion still didn't know what to say to this flaring red ball of fire circling him. "How about, how about you come to the ball?" Right after the words left his mouth, he knew he was going to regret it. Everyone important to his position would be there! It was like bringing a mistress! He was bringing a mistress! but it was too late to take the words back.

"Won't you be busy doing general duties?! Or are you expecting to get bored, and need me to fill the gaps?" Natsumi stepped back and stood in front of him. Her arms crossed, and eyebrows waiting for an answer.

"I really want you there, as my guest.. my... date." This would have to do until he could figure out what was really going on in his empty head. "I'll have an invitation sent here when I get back to the palace."

"Fine. Only because it's going to be a fancy event... and I'm actually getting tired of the old bat anyway. Lori can be quite the fussy employer," she sauntered while sucking on her thumb as if she had pricked it from all her hard work.

"What are you going to come dressed as?" asked Endymion.

"It's a surprise."

"That's not fair! You know what I'll be in."

"Hey, just look for the most sexy girl out in the crowd. It'll sure be me."

Endymion looked in the mirror after Natsumi was finished. He did look fine, never before had he looked this good in a tux.

"Hey good lookin', you still need a mask." Natsumi handed him a slender white mask. It tapered up at the corner of the eyes, and he placed it on the bridge of his nose. She then popped up behind him and plopped a top hat on his head. "Mmm... Tuxedo Mask. Perfect."

All the other girls had decided on their costume, but Serenity wasn't feeling right about any of the sketches or dresses they shoved at her.

"Lori, do you have anything more elegant, but... striking?" Mina asked.

"I have shown you everything my darling!... well, not everything. I've been working on a sketch, it's not the normal style for these royal events. If you ladies can wait for a bit, I could probably finish it up for you."

The lady bent over a drawing pad, and her pencils started to dance across the page. The red curls bobbed up and down, left and right. Finally, she looked up. "It's done."

She tore the page out, and handed it to Serenity. "Here, take a look. Tell me what you think." She waited there in anticipation.

A lone figure was draped in white fabric. There were pulls and gatherings all over the place, but it created this effect of ordered chaos. Serenity's eyes gleamed over the piece of art. "I love it."

"Good. Now at least I know somebody will wear it. I think I'm going to call it, the Swan."

Since Serenity didn't have to go through any alterations yet, she walked towards the front of the store. The Generals were all clumped by the men's dressing rooms. Looked like they were still changing as well. Up by the front sign, she sat out on a smooth wooden bench to drench in the day's sunshine.

"Hey, what are you doing out here? Finished already?" asked Endymion. He was in his usual stance leaning against the door frame.

"Sort of. You?" Serenity didn't need to look at the man to know who it was.

"All set." He looked at the girl on the bench. That spark that she usually carried with her was missing. Obviously the weight of the past had gotten to her. She looked like she needed to talk to someone and air out the laundry.

"Hey, do you want to go get some ice cream or something?"

She looked up, with a weak smile. "Umm... " She didn't have anymore dress shopping or royal business, and for once it wasn't anything she HAD to do. "Actually, I'd love to."

The two walked down the street to a local creamery. Each got a double scoop of their chosen flavor, it was that kind of day where size didn't matter. Sitting back down, Serenity couldn't help but talk about what was on her mind. It's just what happened when she stuffed her face with sweets.

"Kunzite, what do you do when you become disappointed in someone? or.. you feel like they disappointed you?"

"Woah, way to start off deep." Endymion took a deep breath in. "Hmm... Well, one of my greatest fears is that I think about the situation so much, and hold it in so long that I won't be able to forgive that person. You can't just write it off as if they haven't done anything wrong, but you need to cope with it. I'm not the best person to give advice about these things, my life is pretty messed up too, but - talking about why they disappointed you with someone always helps me. It at least stops all the wrong feelings from building up inside. If that happens, then a trigger can just make it explode, and that is never turns out well."

"Is it alright if I talk to you about it?"

"Hey, ice cream and a pretty girl - I think I can handle it."

"So, you've probably guessed, but it's Takeshi. Even though he's... gone. I thought he was different. I knew this side of him that was heartfelt, and good. He was good! I just don't know what happened, there was someone else pressuring him to do the things he did. Then.. Then I just... destroyed him! Literally killed him body and soul! What type of person does that?! To be honest, I'm scared... I'm scared that I'm going to lose control." Serenity was on the verge of tears. Why she felt that it was so natural to open up to Kunzite she didn't know.

"I've been meaning to talk to you about that. Your power that is. You remember how we were on Nephos, and you blacked out. Well, I didn't tell you this because I thought you'd think me off my rocker, but something happened there between you and me. There was this cave..." and he told her everything. From the glowing lights, to the fall, and finally about the voice and the power stored in her. "...at the White Forest, the voice came again - and he said I would be faced with two tests. I have no clue what it all means, but what's happening is real, there's proof to show for it now. Then when I was with Takeshi, he said there was someone he was looking for, a person named Sir. I know that isn't all that descriptive, but it's a start. Do you think that was the person pressuring him?"

"He wasn't working alone, that's for sure. Sir.. that really isn't much to go off of. It's just a prefix. I just don't know what to do. I feel like nobody does. Do you ever have that feeling of being lost?"

"All the time." Endymion smiled. "You know, there are so many forces pushing us this way and that, it is hard to feel like you are choosing your own destiny. I know that feeling all too well. You just have to keep going forward though, keep striving for what you want, and what you think is right."

"The problem is I don't know what is right anymore. I don't even know me! You tell me I store this power, but I can't even control it!"

"You know what, Jadeite is setting me up with some lessons with this master of his for control and different art forms. You are free to join me if you wish. I'm meeting him this evening."

"I'm not sure if it will help, but I'll plan on it. I need to work on some of my 'moves' anyways. HIIIYA!" Serenity swiped the air with her hand, and the outcome was a SPLAT. Completely forgetting they had been eating ice cream she looked in horror at Kunzite's face. The last scoop of her ice cream had landed smack dab in the middle of his face on his nose.

Endymion burst out laughing. He must look ridiculous, but he didn't care. It had been a while since he had laughed this hard. The ice cream slowly melted down his face, and Serenity joined in on his delirium.

After the mess had been cleaned Serenity suggested they go back. The others were probably done with their fittings. Leading the way back down the road, Endymion casually followed behind. Her hair swayed back and forth to the rhythm of their footsteps. He couldn't help his eyes follow down her backside. She looked enticing for once. He shook his head at himself. This woman, could he really see her like that? Then he thought about it again, more seriously... he could.

"Mina." Serenity stopped at his tone of voice. "I've never told you this, but... I wanted to say I'm glad we talked. You really are an interesting girl. Complicated, but in a good way. As some corny poetry would have put it, 'like a rose bud gradually maturing into a blooming flower.' I seem to see more of the real you every time we see each other." Serenity only smiled to herself, and kept walking.