Love and Glory

by Jewelzy

Endymion is doomed to die the death of a traitor in the arena of Capua for having tried to save his sister's life. At the very last moment, Serenity convinces her father and brother to save him by purchase. Endymion ends up as a gladiator in Diamond's Ludus. Forbidden love and secerts will flourish between doomed as not only status will stand in the way of True Love.

20. Decisions Made

Sorry for the long wait - I hope I can make it up to you with this XXL chapter!

Enjoy and share your thoughts!

xx

J

Chapter 20

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Images flickered before his closed eyes, shadows danced, pictures, faces.

His silvery brows knitted as power surged through him – a vision, blurred and hidden. Undetected and yet within his reach. He felt his heart pick up its pace… unsettled, quick, anxious.

Silver hair. Blood. Tainted.

Darkness that drowned the light. A filed of corpses. Eyes that would forever close.

Triumph, an eagle that flew proudly across an ocean of death.

He felt his folded hands squeeze together until it hurt.

Pitch black hair against ivory skin. Screams and tears met with an evil smirk of thin lips.

More hurt, more violence. Silver hair clinging to a sweat-stained face, crimson blood painting the ends red.

Azure eyes meeting silver. Despair. No hope.

How it would end.

His eyes shot open, liquid amber focusing on the blazing fire pit in front of him.

"White Priest?" a concerned voice sounded from behind him-

He pressed his lips together and took a deep breath. He still felt how his heart pounded mercilessly against his ribcage. Flashes of silver, black and red danced before his eyes – fragments of what had been just revealed to him.

"Helios?" the voice addressed him again, now deep with concern.

He felt how the two women sat down on either side of him – each of them putting a comforting hand onto his shoulders.

Helios would continue to stare into the fire before him.

"What did you see, White Priest?" the Maenads whispered in unison, their soft bell-like voices echoing softly from the high temple walls around them. "What did the Gods tell you?"

Helios let out a long breath before he answered.

"They send change." He whispered thoughtfully without looking at the two women. "They send possibilities of futures. Unclear, but every path as gruesome as the other. Decisions have to be taken soon and we will have to accept them no matter the choice. The Fates send their warning to Elysium."

The Maenads gasped at that.

"The Fates, High Priest?" the one to his left whispered, frightened.

Helios nodded his head.

"They warn about interference. They reminded me of our holy law and the consequences."

The young man let out a deep sigh before he took both women's delicate hands in his and brought them to his mouth. He gently placed a kiss on either hand, smiling sadly at both women.

"Help the others prepare for the feast, our time is almost up. And call for the Quartet. I would like to talk to them."

The twins nodded their heads, stood left without asking further questions.

When Helios was alone, a deep darkness settled onto his face.

He folded his hands before his chest and bowed his head.

"Sol Invcitus – Unconquered Sun. Send me your guiding light and help me conquer the darkness within me."

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Rays of sunlight hit his face, causing a muffled groan to escape his mouth as his eyes blinked open. The room was lit in colors of gold and red as the sun bounced back from the white-colored marble walls on either side. Endymion shifted his head and looked down, a smile gracing his features as he was met with the familiar sight of soft silver curls surrounding him completely. He gently stroked away some of her long tresses to reveal her peacefully sleeping face. Gods, she was beautiful! He would never grow tired of looking at her – the beauty both innocent and alluring in her sleep. He shifted a little, causing a soft mewl to escape Serenity's lips as she turned her body until she lay on her back, her beautiful face now turned away from him. Endymion's eyes darkened with desire as his gaze roamed leisurely her form. Her chest heaved with every soft breath she would take, causing her ample breasts that were slightly covered by her long hair to rise and fall in a seductive way. Endymion couldn't help but reach out one hand to gently push away her hair, revealing her entire beauty to him. His right hand developed a life of its own as it slowly floated across her soft skin. A wicked thought entered his mind, and his hand dipped between her legs, his fingers gently stroking the alluring flesh there. Serenity let out a soft gasp in her sleep, followed by a mewl, as his fingers traced her folds. His eyes were dark and dangerous as he kept them focused on her face, and the desire burnt him from within as he watched how every gently stroke between her legs would cause her face to transform to the most delicious view he had ever seen. His movements grew determined, more deep, the gladiator now determined to increase his beloved's pleasure. Her hands formed to fists and clenched around the bedsheet, while her breasts heaved more rapidly from excitement. He smiled almost evilly as her eyes suddenly flew open, the silver within them immediately focusing on him. Her entire face was filled with a mixture of surprise and desire, and out of instinct, she tried to wiggle away from him, but Endymion out a determined hand on her bare hips, keeping her in place. Even if she had wanted to, there was no escape from his and his desires for her. She heard the slightest of sighs escape him as a deep moan escaped her lips. She saw how the hand from her hip moved to his enlarged member, and she watched I fascination as he stroked himself with equal pace as he pleasured her. His eyes were pitch black, staring at her face intently as she succumbed to her desires. He let out a deep growl, a moan so powerful and manly that her heart rate increased even more. His movements increased in speed, bringing them both more and more pleasure. When the feelings reached their peak, Serenity squeezed her eyes shot while her world exploded with white and silver colors. Throughout the waves of ecstasy, she felt and heard how Endymion almost violently touched himself, bringing himself to the peak as he finished with a fierce shout of completion. She felt how his essence landed on her thigh and stomach, white marks of his possession against her ivory skin.

Serenity touched his chest and felt his rapidly beating heart beneath her fingertips. His lips gently grazed the side of her cheek in a soft kiss, and he whispered words of love and adoration into her ear.

She smiled up at him and stroked his dark hair away from his face.

"I like waking up with you like that." she whispered lovingly, her voice still hoarse from sleep and moans.

He chuckled and rolled on top of her, caging her head with both arms.

"I couldn't control myself." he said, but the tone in his voice as well as the look in his eyes showed her that he did not regret a thing.

Her smile broadened at the boyish look on his face. Darkness and desire still whirled within the depths of his azure eyes, and Serenity couldn't help but feel proud that it was her that caused Endymion's blood to boil with lust. She knew that Endymion was a desirable man – with his handsome face, godlike body and the strength and stamina of a true warrior. She doubted that there was any woman in this world or any other that would not fall to her knees right in front of him to offer both body and soul. Surely, even Venus herself would fall into despair in face of this mixture of fine beauty and roughness.

She couldn't help the smirk that curled her lips as she looked into his eyes that have been so solely fixed upon her since the first day they've met so long ago.

"What causes this smile on your face, sweet Domina?" Endymion asked in a low, seductive voice.

Serenity bit her lips with a glint of mischief in her eyes.

"Being so freely with you without prying eyes fills me with happiness." she answered truthfully.

Endymion smiled at her before he placed a long, loving kiss onto her lips.

He looked down at her… at the love of his life. Tonight was the final night of the Saturnalia celebrations. A night that would change everything. He had trained well against Helios, has improved his skills to a level where he was certain that he could defeat the White Priest. Energy surged through him at the mere thought of what this would ultimately mean for Serenity and him. They would finally be free – they would be finally able to leave this place and start their lives in happiness.

Tonight, of that he was certain, would change everything.

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"Dies Natalis Solics Invicti" Helios announced in a strong, confident voice as he stood proudly near a great bonfire in front of all inhabitants of Elysium in the center of the Great Temple Hall. "The Birthday of the Unconquered Sun! For four days now, we have been celebrating the Saturnalia, our sacred Roman festival in the honor of the god Saturn which now reaches its climax in the birthing of the sun."

His eyes roamed lovingly the crowd before him.

"My brothers and sisters, darkness and light stands united during this special time of the year, as we honor our great father Saturn and pray for the restoration of the Golden Age, when Saturn himself ruled this world and freed souls from hardship and brought our kind perfection and happiness. Tonight, however, at the end of this great celebration, my patron Sol shall be honored as he has reclaimed his rightful throne in the heavens. The past weeks have been ruled by darkness, but now that he is back, he will lead our kind to longer days filled with sun and happiness."

The crowd cheered in excitement, but Serenity couldn't help notice the heated glare that Nehelenia was sending her brother. She was standing to his right, clad in a beautiful long dress of a dark blue color, and looking as vicious and beautiful as ever. A shudder ran through the young beauty as she remembered their last encounter, and she couldn't help but press her body firmly against Endymion who was standing next to her. Endymion, sensing her discomfort, looked down at her with confusion and his hand automatically wrapped around her slender form to pull her closer.

"As a symbol of this, my sister, the Dark Priestess of Elysium, will offer up a sacrifice to honor Sol Invictus, and will thereby accept His reign over this world for the next months to come."

He motioned his hand, and the Maenads brought forth a sheep of shimmering golden wool. The animal was led to a platform near the bonfire where everyone could see it. Nehelenia stepped forward and drew a black dagger from her dress.

Serenity's eyes widened and her lips opened in a lout gasp. She knew what was to come – had seen it many times before during her times at the Temple of Selene. She hated it – hated the idea behind sacrificing a pure, innocent being for religious reasons. She could never stand watching the deed.

"The Dark Priestess looks ready to kill Helios instead of the poor animal." Lita commented dryly. "It must be difficult for someone like her to make sacrifices as a symbol of the darkness' defeat."

Serenity looked at her, seeing the sly smile on Lita's face. Like her, the Greek detested the Dark Priestess with a passion. She was the only person besides Helios who knew how Nehelenia hat threatened Serenity, and since then, Serenity had a tough job in convincing Lita to not kill the Priestess barehanded.

"It's her duty as Dark Priestess." Nephrite revealed solemnly. He was standing next to Lita, his face a strange vivid mixture of excitement and awe. Being a man of religion, the Saturnalia celebrations inside Elysium were most likely the undoubtedly highlight of his life. Apart from meeting Lita, of course. Serenity had noticed the change between them. Lita would always skillfully evade her probing questions, but the silver-haired beauty simply knew that something had happened between the two Greeks during their time in Elysium.

"The solstice celebrations symbolize the circle of our world, of our lives" Nephrite continued as he watched how Nehelenia slowly approached the sheep. "The winter solstice, with its shortest period of daylight and longest night of the year, symbolizes the war between darkness and light in which Sol Invictus ultimately comes out as victor. The winter solstice symbolizes the victory of the Light – that is why Nehelenia has to offer up a sacrifice as a peace offer. In a few months during the summer solstice, however, it's the other way round as it heralds the start of the dark period. They have a similar celebration than, but it will be Helios to offer a sacrifice to the Dark Deities."

Serenity's gaze wandered back to Nehelnia who was now kneeling next to the animal.

"And thus it was that the Great Sol Invictus defeated Darkness to rule the world from this day forth!" she shouted to the skies. "Heil Sol Invictus – Bringer of Light! Take this innocent being as a sign of peace from my patrons."

She raised the dagger into the sky, causing the heated fire to be reflected within the silver blade.

Serenity stared at her, and her body froze completely as Nehelenia's eyes suddenly opened and she stared directly at her with cold vicious eyes. She briefly noticed the treacherous smirk that curled her full lips, before she plunged the sharp blade into the sheep's body.

Serenity hid her face in Endymion's chest, the dying animals final cry muffled by his warm, soft skin as he pressed her more determinedly against him.

It was only when the crowd cheered again did she look up again, her eyes sad and swimming with tears as she saw how the dead animal was pulled away.

Endymion tightened his hold around the small beauty in his arms as he caught the Dark Priestess cold eyes across the Temple ground. She coldly smirked at the pair as she stepped back to make room for Helios who ended the official ceremony with another prayer to the Gods. Endymion saw how Nehelenia slowly, determinedly swiped the blood from the dagger with her bare hands, her dark eyes sizzling and sparkling with danger and ill-intent as she smiled at him.

He understood the threat she was sending their way, and it was causing a feeling of anger and dread to pump through his veins. He knew that Nehlenhia would, one way or another, harm Serenity if she stayed longer in Elysium. There was no other way. They needed to escape this place tonight.

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"Are you enjoying yourself?"

Helios appeared to her right, offering her a shiny goblet filled with rich red wine.

Serenity smiled at him and took the drink.

"It's a beautiful celebration." Serenity offered softly as her gaze moved across the mass of people surrounding her, each and one of them having something to drink or eat in their hands, laughing or dancing to the music. "It unlike anything I've experienced in the Temple of Selene during the Saturnalia."

Helios, obviously pleased with her answer, nodded his head and took a sip of wine.

"I'm glad that you are enjoying your time in Elysium, Serenity." he said with a soft smile on his lips, his golden eyes sparkling with happiness. "And I have to admit that I enjoy having you here with us… with me. You fit perfectly."

Serenity couldn't help the blush that formed on her cheeks at the compliment. She offered him a shy smile and nodded.

Silence stretched out between them, both comfortably observing the people around them.

Serenity suddenly felt how Helios tensed a little beside her, and the young man cleared his throat before he addressed her again.

"Serenity… there is something that I would like to talk to you about."

Serenity knitted her brows in confusion and turned her had to fully look at him. Helios was still smiling at her, but she noticed how his chaw was slightly tensed, and his posture strained.

"Is something wrong?" she immediately worried, the beauty confused by his sudden change of behavior.

Helios smiled fondly at her and shook his head.

"No, my dear." he was quick to reassure. "Nothing is wrong. I want you to realize, however, that there will be a time where you will need to make a decision."

"A decision?" Serenity repeated warily with furrowed brow.

"Yes." Helios agreed, his voice and posture still firm. "When the decision needs to be made, I want you to remember this time in Elysium. I want you to remember the work in the Temple and our conversations. And I want you to remember the conversation that we have now, my words that hopefully will reach not only your ears but soul."

Helios smile had vanished completely. Serenity didn't remember when she had last seen him this… serious. Probably never.

"Helios… I don't know."

But Helios stopped her by holding up one hand that caused the words to die on her tongue.

He stepped closer, his golden eyes firmly fixed upon her.

"You belong here." he whispered. "Your heart belongs to Elysium, to the Gods. When the time comes, I want you to remember that."

After a moment or two, Serenity finally shook her head and gave him a small but determined smile.

"My heart belongs to Endymion." she told him gently but firmly. "There is no place for me without him. I'm sorry"

She offered him one last gentle smile before she turned around and vanished into the crowd of people.

Helios watched her go and his heart constricted in pain. This much of interference had been allowed by the Fates. This was all he could to for her – this was all he could offer her. The future was still blurry, but he knew that if she chose to go another path, it would lead to death and destruction.

"She will come with me." Someone said from behind him. Helios' entire body tensed at the voice, and he felt how his hands next to his body balled to fists.

"We will leave tonight."

Helios drank from his goblet of whine before he turned around to meet determined azure eyes.

"You know what first needs to be accomplished, Endymion." he sighed and shrugged with his shoulders. "Enjoy the night, Endymion."

He was about to move past the Thracian when a firm hand suddenly closed around his upper arm, holding him in place.

"No." Endymion growled, his eyes darkened with intent. "This ends tonight."

Helios met his fierce stare and simply shook his head.

"It's useless."

Two simple words were enough to make Endymion's blood boil. His tall frame threateningly towered over the young priest, and he moved his head closer until his nose was almost touching Helios'.

"We will fight." he hissed through clenched teeth. "And when I win, I will take her far away from you, your sister, the Dominus or any Praetor. I will not fail her."

A low chuckle rumbled through Helios' chest.

"Like you did not fail your sister?" he challenged lightly.

Helios knew that it was a cruel thing to say, could see it on the Thracian's face as the mere mentioning of his sister caused a flash of pain and doubt to wash over his face.

Helios sighed.

"See? You are not ready." he insisted and his voice sounded strangely exhausted. "Maybe you will never be."

He placed his hand above Endymion's and freed himself with gentle force from his grasp.

"Enjoy the night Endymion. Save your energy for what is to come."

He was about to leave when Endymion stopped him anew.

"No." the young Thracian insisted. "You told me that I could challenge you whenever I want. And that when I win, I can go with her where I please."

He stepped closer while holding his chin up proudly.

"I want to fight now." he said firmly while stressing every word. "And I hold you to that promise that you made."

Helios stared at him for some moments longer. Endymion detected how appreciation swirled in the depths of Helios' golden eyes, but it was also a flicker of regret that he saw. It made him wonder why Helios was behaving so strangely when it came to their fight.

Finally, Helios let out a long, exhausted sigh. It was as if the entire world's burden was lying on those slender shoulders.

"Fine." The young man agreed, a small smile forming the corners of his mouth. "Let's see how good you've become."

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The entire, big hall was almost exploding with excitement as Endymion and Helios stood opposite from each other. Everyone was excited, except for one. The young Thracian had come to Serenity shortly before Helios had announced their fight. He had kissed her excitedly, long and deep, before he had grinned at her, telling her that everything would soon be fine. It had raised more questions that it had answered. She had numbly heard how Helios had announced a surprise event for tonight – a fight between the sons of Mars and Sol – as another tribute to the Gods. Lita had simply shrugged her shoulders as Serenity had expressed her concern and confusion, while Nephrite's eyes had sparkled with energy and excitement for the fight to come. After all this time, he still was a gladiator to the core.

Serenity stared at Endymion who stood proudly in the center of the circle formed by curious spectators, and he winked at her mischievously as he caught her gaze. He had a sharp sword in his hand while the crowd cheered with excitement. Serenity had almost forgotten how wonderful he looked in the face of fights. Powerful, determined, invincible. He could probably challenge Mars himself.

When she looked at Helios, however, she caught herself thinking that he stood no chance against her beloved. He was standing there in nothing but his white pants as he had pulled off his white shirt to reveal a toned, lean upper body. The White Priest smiled calmly at the crowd, while he expertly swirled his sword in one hand. He seemed to be skilled, Serenity had to give him that. But still: he was a priest, slender in form. There was no way he could match Endymion.

Oh… how wrong she had been.

Only few seconds into the fight, and Serenity had to realize that Helios was far more skilled than she would have thought. Even more so, he was an excellent fighter who parried each and every blow from Endymion with an ease that the young beauty had never seen before. She heard Nephrite's appreciative murmur from her left, and she was glad that it had not only been her who had been deceived by Helios' appearance. But this was not the only surprise. Endymion, also, fought so differently from what she remembered. He had always been skilled, but the performance that he displayed today was much more thought-through, his blows much more prudent. The fight itself was an impressive display of what true gladiatorial art was about. She had to think of her father. He would have been delighted to see a fight like this.

She gasped as Helios landed a blow onto Endymion's back, causing the Thracian so scream out in pain as a longish wound tore his skin. But instead of being distracted by the pain or discouraged by the strike, Endymion just whirled around sent a blow of his own, which seemed to surprise Helios.

"Good!" the White Priest praised with a proud grin of his face. "Maybe you have finally learnt the one or other."

Endymion couldn't help the smile on his lips that Helios' words caused.

"Someone once told me the key to victory was believing you have a life worth fighting for."

Helios nodded his head before he pounced again, sending his sharp sword through the air that missed Endymion only by a hair's breadth.

The fight continued liked this for a long time as neither Endymion nor Helios were able to gain the upper hand. Serenity could see that both men grew more and more frustrated with every blow that was not able to strike the opponent down. Both were panting heavily, their skins scattered with small bloody scars, but with their eyes still lit with their fire from within. It was when Helios once again successfully parried one of Endymion's blows that the fight seemed to come to an abrupt end. Helios moved like a cat and used the handle of his sword to push it forcefully against Endymion's ribs, causing the other to cry out in pain and fall to the ground. With inhuman speed, the White Priest grabbed Endymion's sword-leading hand and forced him to let go off his weapon. He kicked it far away and pushed Endymion to the ground. The Thracian was lying on the ground, weaponless, while Helios stood above him, his own sword in hand with its pointy tip pointing at Endymion's throat. A sad smile of triumph could be seen as he pressed it more firmly against the gladiator's skin.

"I told you that were not ready yet." he told him with regret in his voice.

Endymion looked up at him with dark eyes.

"Do not underestimate your opponent's reason to fight and the pain he would go through to win." He hissed.

The crowd screamed as Endymion's hands suddenly shot up to clench around the sharp sword, his hold causing think red blood to tickle down the swords' edge.

Helios eyes shot up in surprise, and Endymion used this smallest moment of distraction for his purpose. He ignored the pain from his hands and pushed the sword backwards with all force, causing the wounds at his hands to deepen. The force made Helios stumble backwards, and before he knew what was happening, Endymion had pummeled him to the ground. The dark-haired man wrenched the now bloodied sword from the other man's hands and threw himself onto him. Helios tried his best to wiggle himself from under Endymion's body, but to no avail. His eyes widened as he felt the sharp blade against his throat, piercing the delicate flesh there. He looked up only to find Endymion's face directly in front of him.

Endymion smirked.

"I win."

Helios' eyes transformed from surprise to pride.

"You do." he confirmed and the crowd exploded with excitement.

Suddenly, the joy from Helios' eyes vanished and filled with regret instead. His entire face went pale.

"I told you it's no use." he whispered, and Endymion could only hear him as his face was still so close to the priest's. Endymion's brows furrowed with confusion.

"It's too late." Helios added with genuine sorrow.

"Well what a wonderful fight!" a voice boomed, causing the crowd to shriek in surprise.

Endymion quickly stood, shock was evident on his face as he spotted the white-haired man at the entrance of the great temple hall.

Diamond was surrounded by ten, maybe fifteen Roman soldiers, his indigo eyes filled with hatred. Endymion felt more than heard how Helios slowly stood, the young man's amber gaze focused on this unwelcomed guest.

"Diamond." He addressed him in a steely voice. "What a surprise to join our celebration."

Diamond gifted him a heated glare. He had already opened his mouth when a sweet female voice stopped him.

"My dear friend." Nehelenia purred as she approached the Dominus. Her hips determinedly swayed from one side to the other, demanding the attention of everyone within the room to be on her. "I'm so glad that you have received my invitation."

"Dark Priestess." Diamond bowed his head and kissed her hand.

Nehelenia laughed – a shrill piercing sound that echoed from the walls around her.

"My dear, aren't we long past these formal greetings?" she laughed before she raised herself on her tiptoes to place a long, heated kiss on Diamond's lips that he was only too eager to respond. The people around them stared at them with open curiosity, while some murmurs started to fill the silent room.

"I admit I've missed you." Diamond murmured with a seductive grin when they finally parted.

He then pushed her gently away, the lustful heat in his eyes suddenly morphing to a dangerous glare as he took in the crowd before him.

"Even though I've missed my sister more." he announced, his eyes searching restlessly for the silver-haired beauty. "Serenity. Step forward."

Serenity felt how eyes turned towards her, and how the crowd slowly parted to reveal her to her brother. A cold shudder went down her spine as his indigo eyes met hers. He waited some more moments in tensed silence for any reaction on her part. But Serenity was frozen, a cold feeling of dread fisting around her heart and rooting her to the spot. She saw how Diamond's eyes lost the small warmth within and grew cold and impatient. He lifted one hand and motioned her forward.

"Are you not even going to greet me, Serenity?" he challenged, his voice low and dangerous.

She quickly glanced at Endymion, but was as paralyzed as her, unable to move a single muscle as he looked at her with pleading eyes. For what he was pleading, she didn't know.

Serenity swallowed the lump in her throat and collected all the courage within. She lifted her chin high in defiance, her eyes cool as she looked at her brother.

"How's Mina?" she asked, surprised how steady and cold her voice sounded.

Diamond stared at her with an unreadable expression on his face before he suddenly barked with laughter. Some of the people around her cringed at the sudden sound.

"Still mad at me because your little slave, are you now?" he replied with a cool smirk on his face. He slowly approached her – and Serenity couldn't help but feel like a predator's prey. Diamond now stood right in front of her, taking her in with a thoughtful expression on his face. He raised one hand to touch her cheek, but Serenity immediately flinched away.

Diamond let his hand drop.

"I could have killed her." he told her with emphatically. "I didn't. Isn't that worth anything?"

Serenity narrowed her eyes. He stared at her for some moments longer before he sighed.

"She's fine." He told her sincerely. "She's still in Capua, safe and sound. Awaiting your return."

"Return?" Helios' voice sounded causing a dark look to appear on Diamond's face.

His head snapped to the left, his cold gaze firmly fixed upon the White Priest.

"Yes." he confirmed in a steely voice. "I've come to bring her home. I will no longer tolerate your treachery, Helios."

"Treachery?" Helios echoed with raised brows. His gaze then moved towards Nehelenia who was watching him through triumphant dark eyes.

"I see." he murmured before his gaze settled back onto the silver-haired Dominus. "It's seldom a wise choice to lend your ears to the words from snakes, Diamond. I thought your father taught you better than that."

Diamond let out a dark chuckle and encircled Serenity's waist, bringing her closer to his side.

"Save your breath, White Priest!" he retorted coldly. "I've seen how you have trained MY gladiator. I know about your intentions to steal my sister from me!"

"That's right, Diamond." Nehelenia purred as she seductively made her way to his other side. Her hand ran over his shoulder, and her long fingernails gently traced his nape. "They've been training in secret for weeks now. I've seen them. My brother's wish is to defy you and keep your sister for himself. He wants to make her a Light Priestess. Like her mother."

Serenity's eyes widened in shock as she started at Endymion and Helios. Both men were glaring at Nehelenia with a hatred she had never seen before in both men's eyes.

"I knew that you wouldn't be able to resist her." Diamond growled with narrowed eyes. "I knew that I should have never left her with you."

His gaze then moved to where Endymion was standing, and disappointment entered his heated glare.

"And YOU" he spat. "I trusted you with her safety! I called you brother despite our status. And this is how you betray me?!"

Endymion's hand clenched around the handle of his sword as he held Diamond's heated gaze.

An amused chuckle echoed through the silent room and all eyes turned to look at Helios.

The White Priest's amber eyes sparkled with mirth, and a sly smile split his face in two.

"It seems my dear sister tricked you to come while not revealing the entire truth, old friend." he drawled as he leisurely made his way to where Diamond and the two women were standing. He held up both hands in surrender, his eyes meeting Serenity's.

"It's true Serenity." He told her warmly. "The moment I saw you, I knew that you would make the perfect Light Priestess. It's also true that I would like to keep you here in Elysium so that you can continue your studies and become a member of our order. The Gods have approved of her."

Serenity felt how Diamond's hand around her hip tightened possessively.

"And…" he continued as his gaze shifted to Diamond. "If she chose to stay here, it would be by the blessing of the Gods. No one would be allowed to take her from here. It would be a deed against Sol Invictus Himself."

He made a pregnant pause there, letting the words sink in as both is offer and threat filled the Temple Hall.

"As for Endymion, however," he continued with a shrug of his shoulders. "My sister might have left out some important facts. It's true, I trained Endymion. And you can see how well he has developed since he's arrived here. He was even able to defeat me tonight. The reason, my dear Diamond, was however not to defy YOU, but to do your bidding in protecting this wonderful creature from harm."

Diamond narrowed his eyes at that.

"He's playing with you." Nehelenia whispered. "They all try to conspire against you. Don't you see how he is trying to twist your…"

"Your jealousy" Helios interrupted her sharply. "Does not become you well, Nehelenia"

The force of his words made Nehelenia close her mouth.

"Don't you want to tell our dear old friend how you threatened Serenity during her stay here? How you wished for her death since the first day she entered Elysium?"

Diamond immediately pushed her away.

"Is that true?!" he barked, hatred filling his face.

Nehelenia glared at him before she let out another shrill laughter and let her hands roam her dark curls.

"Oh please." she snickered haughtily. "Why would I want that? Why would I care about her?"

"Because she is everything that you are not." Helios hissed. "She is light. Pure and innocent."

Nehelenia seethed with anger and her once beautiful face contorted with rage. She narrowed her eyes at her brother, before her lips formed into an evil smirk.

"Innocent, now, is she?" she taunted lightly. "Diamond, maybe it's of interest of you that…"

"Is it true, Serenity?" Diamond ignored Nehelenia and turned towards his sister. "Did she try to harm you?"

Serenity took in a deep breath, her eyes losing focus for a moment. She felt all eyes on her, could feel the daggers that Nehelenia was shooting her way.

"Yes." she finally replied. "Yes, she tried. If not for Helios, I don't know what …"

She stopped there, her voice breaking a little. She could feel how Diamond wrapped his arms around her, supporting her.

"You stupid little BITCH!" Nehelenia cried out, her eyes pitch black. "How dare you.."

Before she was able to continue, a slap echoed from the walls and the force made her fly to the ground.

"You dare lay hands on a protégé in the confines of the temple?!" Diamond hollered. "You dare lay hands on a daughter of Rome?! My sister?!"

He stepped closer and towered above the Dark Priestess.

"I should kill you for that!"

"Diamond calm your storms." Helios calm voice floated through the air. "I cannot tolerate you threatening the High Priestess from Elysium. No matter her deeds. It's not your place."

Diamond clenched and unclenched his fists before he turned around and moved back to where Serenity was standing. He let his hand roam through his silver hair to calm himself before he took hold of Serenity's arm.

"I've heard enough." he said with trembling voice. "Let's go home."

"Diamond!" Helios called out, his face serious. "Not so fast. Serenity has still not made her decision."

He approached her, his eyes solely fixed on her.

"Will you stay here, with us, as a Light Priestess?" he asked her. "No matter the choice, there will be no turning back. But if you say yes, even your brother is not powerful enough to force you back to Capua."

Serenity stared at the young priest whose eyes were filled with the slightest hint of hope.

"You would be safe." Helios urged. "You would be happy. Isn't that everything you've ever wanted?"

She bit her lips, her eyes moving to where Endymion was standing. He had an unreadable expression on his face. But Serenity knew that there was no way she would stay without him.

"What about the others? Lita, Endymion, Nephrite? Would they be able to stay as well?"

Diamond snorted.

"They belong to ME. Just as you do. Stop that nonsense, Serenity!"

Helios ignored him, but his eyes turned sad. He already sensed her decision.

"The Gods granted entry, but your friends' path lead elsewhere."

Serenity's eyes turned back to Endymion. She remembered Mina, Artemis, Luna… No.. she would .. could not stay.

"Then no." she smiled sadly. "My path is with them."

Helios closed his eyes as if physical pain overwhelmed him.

"Then there is nothing I can do." He whispered.

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---

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Saphir watched through hate-filled eyes how Diamond helped Serenity into the carriage. Since they had left the Northern border, Diamond had barely talked to him. Saphir's eyes narrowed. How he hated her! With force, he pulled the strings of the saddle, making the horse neigh in discomfort.

"Careful." a seductive voice whispered. "Or you'll hurt yourself."

Saphir turned his attention to the woman who had appeared from the shadows.

"We don't have business." he told her coldly. "Leave me alone."

Nehelenia made a disapproving sound with her tongue.

"You are handsome." she stated in a seductive voice. "Brave and strong. Loyal also. I admire this in a man."

Saphir's lips curled into an amused smirk.

"Does that work with other men?" he asked sarcastically.

Nehelenia smiled cruelly.

"Only with the stupid ones. So plenty."

She let her hands roam his back and pressed herself against him.

Her lips grazed the side of her neck, and she smirked in delight as a shudder went through his body.

"But you are not stupid, are you Saphir from Thrace?" she whispered into his ear, kissing it lightly. "It was the truth, you know? That admire people who are loyal to their master. Those who are true to themselves and never shy away from performing evil deeds for the greater good."

Saphir's hands stopped and his body went rigid.

"Oh I know about your little secret." she whispered and pressed herself more firmly against him. "I know what you did to Tiberius."

"How"

"Oh the fires showed me." She laughed lightly. "But don't fear, I promise I won't tell anyone. Even though our relationship is troubled at the moment, I like Diamond. I see why you did it."

Saphir slowly turned around and looked at her through wary eyes.

"But I'm afraid you chose the wrong dark deed." Nehelenia sighed, her eyes moving to where the carriage was standing. "His death solved nothing."

Saphir's jaw tightened.

"No." he confirmed darkly.

Nehelenia smirked at him, her vicious eyes betraying darkening storms.

"Then let me caress your ears with a secret of mine." The Dark Priestess breathed. "You will find them soft and pleasing."

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---

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"Mina!" Serenity couldn't help but cry out when she flew into the arms of her beloved friend. The blonde laughed and held her close.

"It's so good to see you again." she whispered lovingly into her friends' hair.

"Let me look at you" Serenity whispered frantically, tears streaming down her face as she took in her friend. "Are you unharmed?"

"Of course she is." a deep voice sounded, making Serenity whirl around.

"Her eyes lit when she saw Artemis standing proudly before her.

"Artemis" Serenity whispered while more tears made their way down to her chin. "It is good to see you again. Thank you for taking care of Mina."

An amused chuckle rumbled through his chest and he shook his head.

"I'm afraid I had nothing to do with it." He retorted with a shrug of his shoulders. "She was under Malachite's protection while you were gone. No gladiator dared to even look her way."

Serenity raised one silver brow at her friend and she noticed with amusement how Mina's cheeks flushed with heat.

"There is so much to talk about." Mina giggled with delight. "I want to know everything about you first. Where were you? How was it? What happened? And did I just see Lita and Nephrite kiss?!"

Serenity smiled at her bubbly friend. How she had missed her… Helios and his priestesses really had no idea who truly was the light in a world like this. It were persons like Mina who could light up every room with just one of her shiny smiles. She took Mina's hand and squeezed it tightly as the other continued to talk her head off. Out of the corner of her eyes, she saw how Roman soldiers led Endymion away from the carriage and inside the villa.

He caught her eyes and smiled sadly at her. Her heart constricted with pain. Since their departure from Elysium some days ago, she had not been able to talk to him. Diamond had been glued to her side, leaving her no possibility to free herself from his clutches.

How easy life had been in Elysium.

"Serenity? What's wrong?" Mina brought her back from her deep thoughts. Her friend had her brows furrowed and gifted her with a concerned look on her face.

"It's nothing." Serenity offered while trying a wobbly smile. "I'm just glad to see you unharmed."

Mina's expression was filled with doubt and concern.

"Come now." Serenity urged and smiled at her softly. "I want to hear everything about Malachite."

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---

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His fingers drummed impatiently against the hard table's surface.

"Won't you eat some more?" Diamond asked in a strained voice, his eyes intent on the beauty sitting across from him.

Serenity was sitting across from him, her eyes downcast as she stared numbly at the filled plate in front of her.

"I'm not hungry." she simply replied.

Diamond's right hand balled to a fist and he heard his blood roar in his ears. Moments ticked by while neither of them uttered a sound.

"Do you like the gown I've let the tailor make for you?" he broke the silence, his eyes narrowing. "It's from the finest silk the Empire has to offer."

Serenity pressed her lips to a thin line and looked down her body that was clothed it a beautiful Roman dress of a white-blue color.

"It's quite revealing." she replied without looking up.

Diamond's lips curled as he briefly looked at the deep neckline. He took his goblet of wine, eying the beauty closely over the rim.

"It pleases me." he said seductively with a boyish grin on his face.

His words should have provoked her, should have made her cheeks flush with heat. But as for the past few days, since they had returned from Elysium, Serenity would not show any reaction. She would just sit there, staring down into her lap and give single-sentenced answered when addressed. Diamond felt his patience grow thin.

He felt eyes on him and looked at the other people in the room. Serenity's body slaves and Saphir were standing with some distance near the wall, waiting for the dinner to be finished. While Mina and Lita had their eyes downcast like their mistress, Saphir was looking straight at him. A pained expression on his face. Diamond tore his eyes away from his body slave – his former friend. He had still not forgiven him for his betrayal.

Diamond let out an exhausted sigh and pushed his own plate further away from him.

"How long do you want to keep up this attitude, Serenity?" he growled impatiently. "It's been several days now since we've returned from Elysium. Your sadness is becoming tiresome."

Serenity let out a soft laugh and shook her head.

"Maybe you should have just left me there." she mumbled angrily.

"Oh?" Diamond uttered with mock surprise. "So you do still have some emotion within you, now, do you?"

He crossed his arms before his chest, staring at her.

"Why?" he finally asked, shaking his head. "Why should have left you in a place where danger is lurking behind every corner?"

Serenity remained silent.

"You think you were happy there, but it was nothing but an illusion." Diamond continued, barely able to keep the anger from his voice. "An illusion many people fall for, believe me. I must have been crazy to send you to such a dangerous place. I saved you from there, don't you see it?"

"I didn't need saving!" Serenity hissed, finally lifting her gaze. Her silvery eyes were filled with tears and anger. "I was perfectly save there. Endymion, he…"

She stopped herself and bit her lips, stopping herself just in time.

She cast her gaze downwards again and shook her head.

"Endymion and Helios protected me well."

Diamond let out a dismissive snort.

"Helios" he spat and abruptly stood from his chair. "He's a liar, Serenity! Even more than his lovely sister! What picture of himself did he give you Serenity, mh?"

Serenity didn't answer.

Diamond strode towards her and grabbed her chin, forcing her to look at him.

"Do you really think that the White Priest is a shiny soldier, sent by the Gods, to bring bliss and goodness to the world? Let me tell you something, sister mine, he's not who you might think he is."

Serenity glared at him.

"You don't believe me, now, do you?" her brother taunted. "Well then let me give you an example."

He let go off her chin and grabbed her goblet of wine, draining it in one gulp before throwing it against the nearest wall.

"Do you remember the soldiers that were sent to accompany you to Elysium?" he challenged with an evil smirk on his face. "Oh surely you do. Do you have any idea what happened to them? No? Well, then let me enlighten you, darling. He ordered to KILL them."

He enjoyed seeing her eyes widen in shock.

"Oh yes, it's true." Diamond insisted with a triumphant smile on his face. "He killed them because he feared they would reveal Elysium to the outer world. It's their law you know, but HE was the one to order it."

Serenity shook her head.

"How.."

"… Do I know this?" Diamond interrupted sharply. "Very simple, Serenity. One brave soldier was able to escape the massacre. He told me everything! You being there was the only reason why I decided against killing Helios right after I've received the news. If you don't believe me, I would be more than happy to ask the soldier to share his story with you, too But I warn you: it's something that could keep an innocent maiden awake at night."

Serenity closed her eyes in pain. She so desperately wanted to believe that Diamond was lying. But she remembered the conversations she had with Helios back in Elysium. She knew how serious he was when it came to protecting Elysium's secrets.

"Why are you doing this?" she whispered in a pained voice.

She heard how Diamond knelt down next to her, taking her small hands in his.

"Serenity" he pleaded in a sweet, caring voice. "I just want you to be happy again. It's been to long since I've last seen your smile. Where is the carefree, beautiful woman that I love with all my heart?"

Serenity opened her eyes, shaking her head as she looked at him.

"It's not that easy, Diamond." she whispered. "The time in Elysium was special to me. I need some time to accept that …" she stopped and shook her head anew. "that this is my reality. Elysium was nothing but a dream."

Diamond stared at his beautiful sister, his heart swelling as he was overwhelmed with the sadness she was expressing.

"Then let me help you lighten your heavy heart." he said with a smile and stood, taking her with him.

Serenity stared at him with a puzzled expression as she detected the sudden happiness in his eyes. She glanced back to where Lita and Mina were standing, both looking at her with equally troubled expressions.

"I know that you miss Elysium." Diamond said with a compassionate smile. "And that since father's death, this House is lacking the happiness it once harbored."

He sighed before he continued.

"And since I soon have to return to the troops, this villa will be too big for you. I don't want you to feel alone."

Serenity furrowed her brows.

"I… I don't understand." she stuttered.

He took her hand with both hands, bringing it closer to his face.

"I want to fill this House with life again, Serenity." he whispered lovingly. "Our life."

Serenity's eyes widened and she pushed herself away from him.

"What are you talking about Diamond?" she cried out, shaking her head frantically. She looked at the others in the room, desperately hoping that she had misunderstood. Saphir was glaring at her with a hatred she had never seen, while Mina and Lita held each other by the hands, their expressions a mixture of shock and disbelief. She stared at them desperately before her attention was drawn back to her brother.

Diamond laughed at her reaction. He had expected her to be surprised.

"Children, Serenity. I'm talking about children." He chuckled, watching with amusement as Serenity's face paled even further.

He gracefully made his way towards her, grabbing her by the waist and hurled her close.

"Just think about it…" he breathed into her ear while his hands traced her stomach. "Our love, taking root in your womb."

She let out a shocked gasp before she pushed him forcefully away from her, slapping him across his face.

"Have gone CRAZY, Diamond?" she screamed.

Diamond's dreamy smile fell from his face as he held one hand to his burning cheek. His face darkened immediately.

"Leave us." He growled without taking his eyes from Serenity.

Out of the corner of her eyes, Serenity realized how Saphir forcefully pushed Lita and Mina out of the room.

Diamond's hand dropped from his cheek and he let out a short snort.

"Do not ever slap me again." he spat through clenched teeth.

Serenity took a step away from him.

"Do not ever talk such nonsense again, Diamond!" she defended herself. "What were you thinking? Us having children…" she let out a short laugh, shaking her head. "What came over you?"

Diamond stared at her with a blank expression on his face, his eyes void of any emotion. Serenity couldn't stand the look on his face. She swiftly turned around, hugging herself.

"After all this time…" she heard him whisper brokenly. "Surely you must know."

Serenity shook her head desperately.

"I don't know what you are talking about, Diamond." she replied weakly. "I'll go now. You must be drunk."

Before she was able to reach the entrance, hands grabbed her shoulders and forcefully whirled her around. Serenity let out a frightened squeal as she was pushed onto the table. Her eyes widened with fright as she saw Diamond's gaze looming above her. His indigo eyes were pitch black and crazed, and his lips pulled back to a snarl. This man had nothing to do with her brother.

"After all this time you must know!" he hissed, pushing her more firmly against the table as she tried to wiggle herself from under his body.

"Let, let me go!" Serenity demanded as she tried to push him off of her. "You're hurting me!"

"Hurting you?!" Diamond snarled into her face. "The way you have been hurting me for all these years?!"

Serenity realized how tears streamed down freely down her face as she looked up into Diamond's enraged face.

"I have always loved you!" Diamond continued angrily. "I have always wanted you. And I know that you love me too."

"Diamond" Serenity pleaded, shaking her head. "Of course I love you. But not like this. You are my brother!"

She could almost see how something within Diamond's eyes broke.

"Not by choice!" he whispered. "We were forced into this life together. But my heart tells me, sister or not, that we belong together. Forever."

Her eyes grew wide as he pressed his lips against hers, shoving his tongue mercilessly into her mouth. She screamed and tried to push him away from her with all her might, but Diamond just pressed his body more firmly against her, keeping her effortlessly pinned to the table. She felt how his free hand moved along her body, reaching under her gown and squeezing her right breast. Serenity screamed into his mouth, her mind barely able to realize what was happening. When his hand wandered further down her body, she bit him as strongly as she could, causing a pained howl do escape Diamond. He let go off her a little, giving Serenity the possibility to try to free herself again. But Diamond regained his senses quicker than expected, and he pushed her back onto the table. He stared down at her with crazed eyes, his lower lip bleeding from her assault. She felt how droplets of blood fell onto her bared chest.

"Stop it!" she begged through tear-filled eyes. "Please stop it!"

Diamond let out an angry growl and pushed his mouth roughly against her neck, kissing and licking like a desperate man.

"NO!" she screamed, her body shaking from fear and frustration.

He panted against her ear as he reached down and grabbed the hem or her dress, mercilessly pushing it upwards.

"You will learn to love me, Serenity." He whispered heatedly against her ear. "You will learn to love me the way I love you. You will bear my children and we will finally be the family we were always meant to be."

Serenity whimpered and cried, shouted and pushed. But Diamond simply continued his assault, his fingers reaching down between her legs and pushing them apart. Serenity closed her eyes in despair.

Suddenly, she felt how the weight was lifted from her body. She heard someone shout, and how something heavy crashed down onto the floor. She opened her tear-filled eyes, only to look into Endymion's eyes.

"Endymion!" she sobbed and threw herself into his arms.

Endymion pulled her closer, tightening his hold protectively around her. He heard Diamond's groan, and his eyes sparkled with hatred as he watched how the other man got back onto his knees.

"Endymion!" Diamond shouted with rage as he took in the couple in front of him. "What are you doing?!"

"You touch her again and I will kill you!" Endymion hissed.

"Kill me?!" Diamond echoed his disbelief. "Mind your words, slave. Do not forget that I am your Dominus. You do as I please! Now give her back to me! She's mine!"

"She's never been yours!" the Thracian cried out in anger, raising his sword high.

Endymion's words were finally able to break through the crazed haze that seemed to cloud the silver-haired man's mind. He took in the picture in front of him, realized how Serenity clung to the gladiator and how Endymion had his arm wrapped around her. How Endymion glared at him, with eyes full of hatred and emotions Diamond knew only too well.

"What is this supposed to mean?" Diamond hissed through clenched teeth.

"It means that the Thracian has been fucking the lovely Domina behind your back for months now." Spahir sounded from the entrance.

Diamond stared at his body slave, standing there with his arms crossed before his chest – a smug smile on his face. Behind him, several Roman soldiers stood, heavily armed and ready to attack.

Diamond's face paled.

"What?" he breathed, his eyes going back to where Serenity and Endymion were clinging to each other.

"It's true, isn't it, Serenity?" Saphir addressed the crying beauty in Endymion's arms. "You have been betraying the Dominus since the Thracian scum set foot into this house."

Saphir nodded his head at the soldiers.

"Get them."

The soldiers set into motion, forcefully tearing the two lovers apart. Endymion fought desperately, trying to inflict harm wherever he could. But there were just too many. He stood no chance. He had to witness how Serenity was forcefully pulled away from him, and how she was roughly thrown to the floor. She lifted her eyes, the desperation within causing Endymion's heart constrict with pain.

"Tell me this isn't true." he heard Diamond whisper brokenly. He was standing right in front of the broken Serenity, his face a world of pain and betrayal.

He roughly grabbed her elbow, pulling her up and shaking her.

"TELL ME THIS ISN'T TRUE!" he shouted into her face, causing her to sob even more.

He let her go, letting her fall back onto the ground.

His eyes then focused onto Endymion. Endymion had never seen more hatred in another man's eyes. He slowly moved closer to where the Thracian was held captive.

"All this time?" he whispered in a breathy voice.

Endymion held his eyes gaze, but remained silent.

"Saphir." Diamond addressed his body slave with a strangely distant voice. "Bring this Thracian scum to the training grounds. Summon everyone. I want everyone to see what happens when you betray the Dominus of this house."

His gaze found Serenity still lying on the floor, her eyes red and filled with pleading as she stared up at him.

"Make sure she witnesses the punishment from front row."

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Drums played as the House's gladiators were summoned to gather in the training grounds that night. Word had quickly spread about what had happened, what was about to happen. Andrew paled as he looked at the scene before him. Two thick man-sized wooden stilts were standing in the center of the training ground, and one thick black handcuff was fixed at the top end of them. The sky was heavily clouded, but light shone from the big torches that had been roughly pushed into the ground, illuminating the entire ground. There was no doubt that the Dominus wanted everyone to see what would happen that night. His heart froze as he saw Artemis and the High Priestess Luna surrounded by two heavily armed soldiers. Both appeared to be heavily beaten, and their hands were laced together with thick ropes in front of their bodies. His eyes moved further to the right were a pile of thick beams lay prepared. More Roman soldiers, who were guarding Serenity's two body slaves, Lita and Mina. His stomach turned. He knew what these beams were used for. He knew what would await the two body slaves. He glanced at Malachite who was standing next to him. The man's eyes were full of hatred and despair as they looked in the direction where Mina was standing.

"Don't." someone whispered harshly from behind. He moved his head a little to see that Zoisite had addressed Malachite, his hand firmly placed upon the other's shoulder. "Or you'll end up next to her."

"I don't care." Malachite growled, his fists clenching next to his body. "The moment one of these filthy soldiers tries to harm her, I will kill every one of them."

"So do I." Nephrite next to him growled.

Zoisite sighed.

"There are too many." he whispered, but knew it was fruitless. The moment both body slaves were sentenced, there was no doubt that both of the most promising gladiators from this Ludus would fight and die next to their beloved."

The heavy doors opened, and Diamond entered the grounds, dragging a barely covered Serenity with him. No one dared to say a word as he pushed her forcefully to the ground, the beauty sobbing in despair as she tried to push her up while keeping her dirty dress in place.

Diamond knelt down next to her and it was as if he wanted to touch her. But before his hand reached her bare arm, he quickly drew it back and stood. He ran his hand through his silver hair as if to collect himself before he nodded his head towards Saphir.

Saphir, the bastard, Andrew thought, smiled happily as he ordered the soldiers to bring the prisoner. Andrew drew in a sharp breath as Endymion was dragged to the training ground by no less than four Roman soldiers. From what Andrew could see, he seemed to be unharmed. But everyone knew that this would change quickly. He watched as Endymion was forcefully pushed towards the two stilts, the Thracian vividly fighting against his captors. He even managed to kick one so hard that he fell to the ground. Andrew couldn't help the sad smile.

"Not going down without a fight, now, will you?" he murmured sadly as he watched how his friend was forced between the two stilts, and how his arms were secured with the shackles.

Diamond looked at the bound gladiator some moments longer before he finally raised his hand and the drums stopped. A heavy silence stretched out on the training ground, only being interrupted by Serenity's heart-wrenching sobs.

Diamond's eyes focused on her as he raised his voice.

"No one is above retribution." he announced coldly. "for offenses committed against the House of Tadius. No gladiator, no champion. Even the ones you trust the most, should they be guilty of deceit, must face the consequences of their actions. The fault lies in my own chest, as my heart has grown too large over the past months. This cannot stand. What happened tonight has opened my eyes tov the error of my own generosity."

His eyes moved away from Serenity and focused on Endymion instead. He took a step forward, as he gazed at him with pure hatred.

"One that demands correction." he spat.

He turned towards the rows of gladiators, his eyes wild with rage.

"These men and women in front of you are guilty of deceit against me, their Dominus. For months, they have conspired behind my back, have batted their eyes at me and gained my trust through sweet words and promises. But not anymore. Late have I discovered the truth, but I promise they will pay dearly for the crime."

He turned away and nodded his head towards Saphir before he made his way back to where Serenity was lying on the floor.

"Endymion." Saphir addressed him with a strong, proud voice. "You and the other traitors are sentenced to death by crucifixion. As your deed weighs heavier than the rest, however, you will additionally endure 100 whippings. Your bodies will remain here on the cross as a monument to the others who think of betraying the Dominus."

He slowly walked closer, the large leathern whip in his hand.

"Personally, I suggested to remove you from your cock and give it to your little slut as it seems to be so precious to her." he whispered into Endymion's ear. "But alas, the Dominus wouldn't let me have this bit of fun. A shame really. I'm sure she would have loved to have a reminder of you. Now I'm afraid Diamond will make sure to quickly erase your memories from her pretty little head. I wonder if he is inclined to share now that he knows that she is tainted."

Endymion's blood boiled and he forcefully pulled at the shackles around his wrists.

Saphir laughed.

"But then again, maybe not."

With a wink, Saphir went past Endymion and readied himself to deliver the first blow when Diamond gave the sign.

Endymion looked to where Serenity was lying, his face softening as he took in her broken form.

"I love you Serenity." he voiced load enough for everyone to hear. His voice caused her head to lift and she stared at him through tear-filled red eyes. Her lips formed the words of love, but no sound would come out. He smiled softly at her, hoping that she would close her eyes the moment the punishments started. He didn't want her to see him like that. He didn't want her to endure the pain for the rest of her life.

"The others didn't have anything to do with that." He addressed the crowd. "Free them. They are not guilty. I am the only one to blame."

"No words of remorse, then?!" Diamond hissed.

Endymion let out a soft laugh and shook his head. His determined gaze met Diamond's.

"Have you ever regretted loving her, despite the pain it causes?" he challenged.

He saw how the truth of his words hit something deep within Diamond, saw how the hatred of the Dominus' face changed to something else.

"Enough of this!" Saphir growled, and Endymion cried out in hot white pain as the whip smashed against his bare back.

"NO!" Serenity cried and scrambled to her feet only to be held back by one Roman soldier.

Endymion's cries of pain together mingled with the beauty's shouts of despair, filling the otherwise silent training ground.

"Diamond!" Serenity pleaded again and again. "Don't do this. Brother PLEASE I beg you."

Diamond watched with conflicting feelings how Saphir delivered blow after blow. Endymion grunted in pain and he knew that lesser men would have already passed out from exhaustion. But Endymion was the strongest gladiator the Ludus had ever seen. A man who embraced the pain, who had suffered from the world and who would still not give in to despair – even at the end of all. Diamond's hands balled to fists. Endymion was a better man that he had ever been. He had faced the storms and was still trying to stand tall. He had loved her truly. She had loved him truly. He couldn't help but tore his eyes away from the suffering Thracian, and his gaze settled onto Serenity instead. Serenity fought against the Roman soldier holding her captive, the beauty determined to fight for the love she felt.

"Was it worth it?" Diamond addressed her in a hoarse voice, his own tears forming behind his eyes. "Was loving him really worth it, Serenity?"

Serenity's eyes locked with his, the silver within them swimming with tears.

"Every second." she whispered, stressing every word.

Blood tickled from Endymion's back onto the golden sand beneath, tainting the floor crimson. His knees gave in, the Thracian no longer able to withstand the surging pain that flooded his system. Diamond watched in fascination as the Thracian hung between the two poles, only held by the shackles around his wrists as Saphir continued the merciless punishment.

"Diamond please stop this!" Serenity cried out to him. "I will do anything you ask of me. But please stop this. Please! I love him! How can you condemn us for this?"

Diamond's body trembled with frustration. He heard his heart pound in his ears, could feel her pain in every fiber of his body.

"When you kill him, you will lose me forever." Serenity cried. "Is this really worth it Diamond? Brother!"

Was it?

"STOP!" he heard his own voice shout.

Saphir looked at him in confusion.

"I SAID STOP!" Diamond boomed, making Saphir finally to stop.

He looked at Endymion who had lost consciousness sometime during the punishment.

Diamond ran one frustrated hand through his silver hair, could feel every pair of eyes burning holes into his skin.

"Dominus?" Saphir dared to finally speak, the whip still readily in his hand.

But Diamond ignored him. His eyes focused back on Serenity, the glimpse of hope entering her beautiful eyes.

"All I ever wanted was for you to love me." he whispered brokenly.

Serenity shook her head, fresh tears running down her face.

"But not like this." she breathed. "Not by killing the ones I love."

Diamond was just about to reply when a clapping sound suddenly filled the air.

All eyes went to the small platform above the training ground, only to find a man and a woman standing there with amused smiles on their faces.

"Now wasn't this worth the travel?" he man laughed good-heartedly. "Bravo Dominus. Quite a show you have displayed. So… emotional! Heart-breaking even."

Diamond glared at the man above him, his Roman soldiers immediately surrounding him for protection.

"How dare you?!" Diamond shouted outraged. "Who are you?!"

The man chuckled in response. With one swift, calculated movement, he jumped over the balcony rail and laded with sure feet on the training ground right before Diamond.

Serenity's heart froze in her chest as she recognized the man.

"Does that really matter?" the man laughed. He spread his arms invitingly. "I will be the one to kill you."

Diamond narrowed his eyes.

"Rebels!" he growled. "Seize him!"

The Roman soldiers set into motion, but the man effortlessly sidestepped them, laughing with mirth as if this was a mere game.

Suddenly, the heavy doors from the villa were pushed open, and a screaming wild crowd entered the training ground.

"REBELS!" Diamond shouted and grabbed a sword from of Roman soldier.

Serenity was forcefully pushed to the ground, and hell broke loose. She scrambled away, watching in horror as the rebels killed one Roman soldier after the other. The gladiators joined the fight, and she watched how Malachite stormed forward to release Artemis from his bonds so that he could help them fight against the rebels.

"Now where do you think you are going, little beauty?" someone laughed above her. Serenity was pushed to her back and came face to face with a scarred ugly face who was ready to plunge his dagger into her chest. Before he could, however, his face suddenly contorted in pain and he fell to the ground next to her. Diamond was standing there, a fierce look on his face.

"RUN!" he shouted at her. "Bring yourself to safety!"

Before she could answer, he whirled around and slay another rebel and rushed into the battle. Serenity's heart was frantic as she crawled to where she knew Endymion still was. Unconscious and vulnerable. Her heart almost burst through her chest as she saw him lying on the floor, free from bounds but still unconscious. She crouched next to him, tears streaming down her face as she tried to think about how she could ever carry him to safety.

"Get away from him Roman Bitch!" someone screamed at her and pushed her forcefully away from Endymion. A woman with raven hair and fiery indigo eyes was standing on front of her, her sharp blade pointed directly at Serenity.

The woman's eyes flickered to where Endymion was lying, her face contorted with rage.

"You did this!" she screamed in rage. "You Roman scum! I'll make you pay!"

Serenity screamed in fear as the woman leaped forward, her weapon ready to slide Serenity's throat. She was stopped in last second as a hand clasped around her upper arm.

"Don't!" the blond rebel hissed. Serenity looked at the other person, a man with a slender, well-defined figure. No, a woman? Serenity couldn't tell.

The blond rebel's eyes moved to where Serenity was lying in fear, fiery green eyes softening a little as the rebel took in Serenity's trembling form.

"You kill her, I kill you. Understood?" the rebel said firmly to the dark-haired woman.

The raven-haired hissed like a fiery cat, but she eventually nodded her head.

"We'll take this one prisoner." the blond said. "I'll take her to Alan."

Serenity let out a cry of protest as she was pulled from the ground, both her wrists easily held together in the blond's grasp behind Serenity's back. Serenity felt how she was moved away from Endymion, and her entire body fought against it. She screamed and kicked against her captor, but the blond just chuckled.

"You are a fiery cat." The blond chuckled into her ear. "I like that. I hope Alan decides to keep you, kitten."

Serenity shouted Endymion's name as she was led further and further away from Endymion. She craned her neck to look at him, only to see the raven-haired woman crouching besides him, inspecting his wounds.

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Alan smiled with triumph as he looked at the field of corpses that lay scattered before him on the training ground. His gaze caught his sister's, who responded with a sly smile.

He pushed one tanned, muscled arm into the air as he faced his followers.

"VICTORY!" he screamed into the night, and his words were met with a deafening sound bawling and cheers from his rebels.

He looked down at Diamond who was hunched down to his feet, now reduced to a bloodied and beaten shadow of his former self. Alan knelt down next to him, a smug grin curving his lips.

"You have no idea how many nights I have dreamt of coming back and to see your house burnt down to ashes." he laughed. Diamond raised his hate-filled face, his indigo eyes bloodshot from the beatings. He spat right into Alan's face, his salvia mingling with the blood from his mouth.

The skin beneath Alan's eyes twitched before he smoothly wiped away the spit with the back of his hand.

"You bastard!" Diamond wheezed with hoarse voice. "You killed my father!"

Alan's eyes danced with amusement as he replied: "Ah well this. Yes, rumor reached me that you blame my rebels for your father's passing. A shame really. But I'm afraid this is something we have nothing to do with. Unfortunately, I might add."

He laughed and looked at the Saphir's dead body only few feet away from them.

"I heard it through the grapevines, however, that your loyal body-slave was responsible for this deed. A shame really. I think we could have needed someone with his … skills."

Diamond's face fell, his eyes moved to where Saphir lay, his heart growing heavy in his chest as Alan's words sunk in.

"Gladiators! Brothers!" Alan's voice boomed as he straightened himself to look at the imprisoned slaves in front of him. "Your House lays in ashes – as many other Roman Houses do, and more are yet to come. We free you from your shackles, we free your from this burden of being treated as lesser beings as the Romans. Join us and help us take revenge on the Roman Empire. Defy me and my followers, and die together with him."

He pointed his sword directly at Diamond.

The imprisoned gladiators and slaves looked at each other, each of them unsure whether to take this offer or not.

A man with long white hair and many battle scars stepped forward.

Alan eyed him with a smile on his face.

"You attacked us twice. You killed many of our brothers." He announced in a strong voice. "This is our home, and we will go down with it."

Alan smirked at the man.

"Artemis, I suppose?" he laughed and eyed the other man with appreciation. "I was eager to meet you in person and you did not disappoint. I did not expect less from you."

"Artemis" another man addressed the Doctore.

Artemis' eyes narrowed as they fell upon Jedeite.

"These rebels are fighting for a good cause." Jedeite insisted, his green eyes strong as they met Artemis' hostile stare. "Since I've joined them, they have freed many prisoners from their shackles, have saved many from certain death."

He turned around to now speak to his former brothers.

"We freed many of your countrymen from the caves, from the mines." he told them fiercely. "Children, women, men. Young and old. We don't make differences between tribes or races, because we are connected by our desire for freedom. What kind of life awaits you – has ever awaited you – within these walls? They told you that it was honorable to die in the arena for the Roman's amusement. But I ask you this? Is it really an honorable death? Would it be not even more honorable to venture one's life to free the miserable? To fight for freedom and quality in this life? Join Alan and the rebels, and enjoy how freedom feels like. Even if it is just for a short moment. Live with us, give them a chance and you'll see how life is really meant to be. But I promise you that…" he pointed his bloodied sword towards the villa. "It's not this."

A long moment of silence stretched out between them. Finally, Zoisite stepped forward, eying Jedite through cool calculating eyes.

"I have always trusted your judgment, brother." He said. "I'll join you."

Another stepped forward. "Me too." And another "Me too."

Jedeite looked at Artemis, Malachite and Nephrite.

"And you, brothers?" he asked, his eyes pleading. "Will you join me in this final battle?"

Malachite and Nephrite tightened their hold around the women they held securely in their arms.

"Yes, we will join our brother."

Jedeite smiled at them, one of his boyish grins splitting his face into two.

"Artemis?" Alan addressed him. "We could make use of your skills in our humble army of rebels."

Artemis stared at him for a moment longer, his eyes catching Luna's over the training ground. He heaved a sigh, but eventually nodded his head in agreement.

"Traitors!" Diamond hissed, causing the attention to be focused back on him.

"Oh right, you are still here." Alan laughed. He motioned someone to bring a sword.

"Here." he said as he threw the sword in front of him. "I don't fight against unarmed opponents."

Diamond spat to the ground.

"I don't fight with slaves." He hissed, causing an enraged murmur to rumble through the crowd surrounding them.

Alan rolled his eyes.

"Just as well."

"Maybe he only needs … incentive." Anne offered with a sly smile, which caused Alan's brows to raise in mild curiosity.

The crowd suddenly parted and Serenity appeared, being held captive by a blond rebel.

"Haruka!" Alan smirked in surprise. "What a beautiful bird you have captured."

His eyes darkened with lust as he took in Serenity's shivering form.

"I told you I would come back for you." he purred as he stepped forward.

"Careful, Alan." Haruka hissed as she pulled Serenity a little further away from Alan. "She's my prisoner."

Alan chuckled and turned around to look at Diamond whose eyes were wide with despair.

"Tell you what.." Alan drawled. "You'll fight with me and if you win, you and your beautiful sister are free to go. How does it sound?"

Diamond's eyes narrowed and he immediately grabbed for the sword.

"Diamond NO!" Serenity screamed, seeing how her brother was barely able to keep himself on both feet.

"Sh, kitten." Haruka breathed into her ear. "Alan will kill him one way or another. Grant him at least an honorable death during battle."

Thick tears streamed down Serenity's face as she watched how Diamond did his best to attack the rebel's leader. The crowd around them laughed as Alan effortlessly sidestepped every weak attack, and how he pushed Diamond to the ground from time to time, causing the Dominus to fall to the dirt.

"Alan" Anne sighed, her tone one of boredom. "Kill him already. We need to leave before someone detects us."

Alan smiled at her.

"You really are a fun killer, are you now?" he said with mock annoyance, but smiled at her.

Serenity heard her own scream loudly echo from the walls as Alan whirled around and plunged his sword right into Diamond's stomach.

"NO!"

She felt how Haruka's hold loosened, giving her the possibility to push herself away from her and run to Diamond.

Diamond's eyes blinked open, his gaze unfocused as he stared at her.

"Diamond…" Serenity sobbed, cradling his face in her hands.

"Serenity.." he panted, the ghost of a smile forming on his lips. "I'm… I'm sorry."

"Shh" she whispered brokenly. "Sh, you're going to be fine. You're going to be fine."

Diamond offered her a weak smile.

"Let me go, Sere…" he breathed with the last bit of his strength. "Let me go to a place where I can dream of forever with you. I just wanted you. Nothing else, just you."

Serenity clutched his hand in hers, crying bitterly. He tried to lift his hand to touch her face, but was too weak.

He offered her one last smile.

"I'm sorry for the pain I caused." he whispered. "I love you. Like Icarus loved the sun. Too close, too much."

He let out one final breath and closed his eyes.

"NO! Don't leave me! Diamond no!" Serenity begged. She shook him desperately, but he would not wake up.

"Touching, isn't it?!" Alan cackled with laughter, and most of his followers joint in. "Come now, burn this place and let us go!"

Serenity felt how a soft hand wrapped around her upper arm.

"Come now, kitten." a gentle voice whispered. "We need to go."

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The Dark Priestess smiled evilly as she stood, her dark eyes glistering with satisfaction as they stared a moment longer into the fire. She smoothed the wrinkles out of her long dress and made her way back to the temple room.

Her brows rose as she detected Helios sitting in his throne in the Great Temple Hall, a goblet of wine pressed to his lips, his eyes clouded with thoughts.

"What a surprise." Nehelenia said as she approached him. "This is not exactly the time of the day to find you here, brother."

Helios' gaze cleared as he looked at the Dark Priestess.

"I couldn't sleep." was his reply as he shrugged with his shoulders.

Nehelenia rolled her eyes.

"Still pining for the little Light Priestess I took from you?" Nehelenia sighed. "Pull yourself together, Helios. You are getting boring."

Helios stared at her for a moment but eventually nodded his head.

"You are right." He said. "Her path was outside these walls."

Nehelenia smiled with satisfaction.

"Care to join me for a drink, sister?" Helios offered while holding out a goblet.

Nehelenia laughed in surprise.

"It's been ages since you've invited me for a drink." She accused but took the goblet from him. "What changed?"

Helios shrugged his shoulders.

"Sentiments."

Nehelenia raised her goblet, looking at her brother with challenging eyes.

"To Darkness and Light?" she offered. Helios smiled and nodded, raising his goblet as well. "To Light and Darkness." he answered.

Nehelenia took a sip, closing her eyes and humming as the cool liquid moistened her lips.

"Hmmm.." she murmured as she opened her eyes. "Delicious. Where did you get it?"

Helios looked at her a moment longer before he placed his goblet back onto the table and stood from his throne. He approached her, a sweet smile on his lips.

"Capua."

Nehelenia furrowed her brows as she detected the dark glint in his amber eyes. The goblet suddenly fell from her hands.

"GUARDS!" she screamed as she felt how her lungs constricted inside her body.

"Oh don't wait for them." Helios offered sweetly as he circled her calmly, watching as the Dark Priestess collapsed to the ground. "I asked my four best soldiers, the Amazon Quartet, to take care of your three brutes while you were in the praying room."

Nehelenia stared up at him with both fear and anger in her dark eyes. She tried to speak, but the venom in her system caused her to cough instead.

Helios crouched down next to her, making a disapproving tsk-sound with his tongue.

"Sh…" he said sweetly. "Save your breath for the last."

Nehelenia brought both hands to her throat, desperately panting for air.

"You know our rules, don't you?" Helios said. "I'm sure the Fates have come to you as well and warned you from interfering too much."

He watched calmly as the Dark Priestess collapsed completely, lying on her back with her eyes bloodshot as she continued to pant for air.

"You offended our most scared law." Helios chided softly. "You shared the secrets that should have been kept hidden in the confines of Elysium. The Gods want to see you punished for that."

Nehelenia's breath rattled, her dark eyes wild as she looked at Helios.

Helios kissed her forehead, smiling fondly down at her.

"Embrace the darkness, Priestess." He whispered and stood.

He walked away, the sounds of Nehelenia's death rattle echoing from the high walls.

"White Priest?"

Helios smiled at the four female warriors in front of him. The Quartet. His most loyal soldiers.

"No longer." he said with a smirk on his face. "I now am Helios, High Priest, sole ruler of Elysium, the Fortress of the Gods."