My, it's been a long time, hasn't it?!  It's about time I got back into the groove.  For those who 
have read this on my homepage, this edition is revised.  The ending is a bit different and I've 
added more details so that it's a little less confusing.  Chapter 10 is the final chapter of this story.  
I'm working on it, but it may be another month until it's out.  I'm also working on Time and 
Again, written by both Ricci and I.  Plus, I'm super busy.  I hope everyone enjoys it.  Big time 
thanks to Lady Julia, my editor, and of course to all the wonderful and supportive people who 
have written to me and visited my homepage at http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Bungalow/5811.  
The fanfic page is down at the moment but will be updated soon.  Please tell me what you 
thought!  S2jemeko@atlas.vcu.edu.
Bye!

********************************
Out of the Darkness and Into the Light

Chapter 9

by

Selene
*******************************


Beryl whips around, her yellow eyes flashing in a dim, fire-lit room.  "This plan of yours had 
better work, Demando!"  She hisses into the darkness, her fangs seeping down her lips.  

Demando smiles slyly and shrugs his shoulders.  "Why all the sudden focus on me?  I thought 
my 'foolish' escapade was secondary to your 'cause', as you put it."  He walks to a nearby 
chair, sits, and stretches.  His calm, clear-blue eyes grow dark.  "I dare say, is there anything 
wrong, 'cousin'?  Is the little prince being stubborn?  What a surprise."  He says mockingly and 
smirks.  "I thought he would come right to you."

Her hair whips above her as a strong gust of choking wind sears through the room.  Her nails 
grow to claws and she lunges at him, stopping just short of his face.  Beryl grabs him by the 
neck and lifts him into the air, allowing her nails to sink into his skin.  "Just remember Demando, 
I am your *Queen*.  I hold a thousand times more power than you will *ever* have.  Many 
souls have cried out in anguish as I absorbed their pathetic energy and powers.  You are *no* 
different, you insolent fool!"

Blood leaves a thin trail down the sides of his neck and stains his tunic.  He touches his hand to 
her stomach and a yellow swirl emanates from his palm.  She screams in pain and drops him.  
Her eyes narrow and glow a bloody red.  "You have just signed your death warrant!"  

"You can't kill me."  He states flatly.  "Face it.  I'm all you have left."

She cackles evilly.  "I don't think so.  I don't need anyone!  You forget, *you* were the one 
who lost him.  You couldn't even dispose of those four insignificant fools.  *I* spared your life 
that day!  And you call yourself a warrior!  I will show you true power!"

"I would have killed him!  I *will* kill him."  He says darkly.

"You couldn't do it once.  What makes you think you could even come near to a chance like 
that again?!  The plan was to preserve him alive!  Now that 'boy' is about to become one of the 
most powerful beings in the universe!  He was the key to unraveling the moon's power!"  She 
raises her hands above her head.  She closes her eyes.  A black symbol appears on her 
forehead.  "Aid me master.  This one must be exterminated!" A glowing yellow cloud swirling 
with green mire rises and hovers in mid air before Beryl.  Reddish brown slits appear in its 
seething depths.  The floor beneath their feet rumbles and quakes.  An eerie, inhuman voice calls 
out from the shadows.  It's voice rebounds off the walls in all directions, making its source 
impossible to locate.  "Beryl, you must have patience.  Our plan has altered but not our goal.  
The Crystal - it must become the power behind the darkness!  The only way is for its master to 
become a slave to the night.  But she must do it willingly, letting her heart turn cold and black.  
The prince will be lost with out her.  His power will be insignificant to ours.  Eventually he *will* 
also join us.  I have a plan for *everything*.   Demando, go!  Rise to the moon and take its 
princess for your own!"  Blackness encases his body and he disappears.  

Beryl tries to argue.  "My master…"

"Silence! You still know nothing!  You are foolish, Beryl.  I now know the demon that 
possesses your soul is weak.  You are unworthy.  This is your *last* chance.  Fail me, and you 
die."


********************************

Selenity lies curled in a fetal position on a large round, white bed.  White shears fall from hooks in the ceiling 
around it.  Variegated greens lace in and out of the hooks.  She stares blankly at the shining ring on her 
finger.  Carefully sliding it off, she sets it on her bed.  Hearing her door open, she sits up and opens the 
sheer curtains.  Selenity's eyes grow wide.  "Venus?!  What are you doing here?  I thought you'd 
be asleep."

Venus shakes her head and sits in a white, brocade chair next to the princess’ bed.  "I came to 
talk to you."  Mina takes a deep breath and looks Selena directly in the eye.  "Have…have we 
done something wrong?  You used to tell us everything.  And now…you’re so far away.  Won't 
you even tell *me* what's going on?  If you don't want to talk to me, then at least talk to Rei.  
She's been so upset lately.  We all care about you and want to make sure that you're ok."

Selena sits quietly for a moment and then meets Venus's worried gaze.  'I wish I could tell you.  
But you'd never understand.  This is something I have to do alone.  No one can avenge his 
death but me for I caused it.'  After clearing her throat, she answers.  "Oh Mina, no!  It's not 
you.  I've just been so very busy lately.  I feel like there is so much pressure resting on my 
shoulders - to be just like my mother."  She says the last sentence rather bitterly.   Mina's eyes 
narrow and she crosses her arms.   Selenity turns and looks out the large glass doors leading to 
her balcony. 

Venus watches her carefully and her eyes fill with sorrow and pity.  Quietly, she moves toward 
the bed and sits next to the princess.  Laying a hand on Selenity’s, she asks  "Is that all…or…is 
there something else?”

Shivers race down the princess's back and her heart beets rapidly.  Forcing a face of stone she 
answers calmly, "Of course, that’s all.  What could possibly be wrong?  We've been successful 
thus far in keeping war from hindering peace on the moon, and my training goes well.  Yes, 
everything is fine."  She smiles falsely.

Mina's yellow eyes flash angrily.  "How long do you think you can keep up this charade?!  You 
can hide all your pain and suffering until it kills you.  But there is one thing you *can't* hide!  
Your heart still calls out for him.  *Me?!*  You thought you could keep that from me?!  I don't 
need you to tell me how much you long for him - because I can *feel* it."  Calming her rage, 
she says gently,  "You must have hope.  I truly believe that love can conquer anything - even 
death itself.
        
Selenity whips away from Venus and slaps her.  "How dare *you* tell *me* what I feel!  The 
Soldier of Love?  Oh there have been many suitors - crowding around you - just dying to get a 
glance at the young goddess of love.  You know what they want- your power, your strength - 
they live off of it and shine in your glory.  But where is the one you claim will steal your heart 
and treasure it forever?!  He isn't here nor shall he come.  You live in a dream, Venus!  Wake 
up! Gods!"  She cries throwing her head back, hot tears streaming down her cheeks and a look 
of utter pain consumes her face.  "I would have died that very night if I thought I could keep him 
and his love!"  She shakes her head.  "But now he's gone."  Selena whispers hoarsely.  "Sooner 
or later the ones we love all die.  Everything comes to an end…" Tears still falling she slides 
from her bed and sinks to the floor.  Wiping away her tears, she says calmly, "Now all I have 
left is my mission.  Only then, will I put reality behind me for it is cold and empty."

Silently, Mars emerges from the dark, Gothic entryway of her room and sits directly in front of 
her on the cold tiles of the floor.  She does not smile and retains a hard, angry visage.  "So you 
will become just like it - cold and lifeless."  She shakes her head and her eyes flash with red fire. 
'This ends now.  Please let his work!  We need you. Princess.'  "For every person, reality is 
only what it seems to be.  You have chosen to be alone - then misery and anguish will be your 
guide in life."  Rei grasps each of her arms firmly and shakes her.  "That cannot happen!  You 
are the one who needs to wake up!  Peace guards the lives of thousands on this world and that 
of countless others.  It's time to reawaken the fire inside of you for we all have it.  It's there.  I 
can see it.  Please…"

Mercury walks to her from the sitting room off to the left.  "Selena, you have to understand.  
We all want to help you but you have to help us.  Don't let your heart become frozen - it may 
never melt.  The decision is left to you alone.  But if you continue the way you are, you'll die."

Selenity looks at her with ice cold eyes.  'Death?  Would that be so horrible?'  She thinks.  'No 
pain.  No sorrow…But…no happiness…no light.'  Confused, she looks down and stares at the 
shiny floor. 

Jupiter stands behind Ami.  "For the past year, we have tried our best to be here for you.  All 
you do is push us away.  But we love you and we're here for you."

"Please let us help."  Mercury begs.  

Selenity begins to shake and her mind clouds.  'Why can't I think?  All I feel is anger…no hate! 
No!'  Her mind screams.  'You will not do this to me!'  She stands away from the others and 
backs into a corner, eyes flashing and wild.   Venus stares at her in shock.  Her eyes grow wide 
and her breathing slows.  'No.  It can't be…But yet, I feel it.  I didn't know that they could...' 

As if recovering from temporary insanity Selenity closes her eyes, and calms her raging 
emotions.  Opening them again, she appears perfectly calm.  She looks at each one and 
addresses them in turn.  "I thought you'd be proud.  I'm not fat, Rei.  Ami, I've read just as 
many books as you have and I am ahead of you in my studies.  Don't I make the perfect 
diplomat?  Lita, I can attend any state dinner without fear of fault or mistake.  And Mina, I can 
walk and talk more gracefully than any lady at court.  Isn't that what they say of me?  That I am 
the perfect, ideal princess?  Yes, the puppet strings have served me well.  And now, I'm going 
to finish what you've started.  In a week's time, an announcement will be made sealing me as the 
future bride of Prince Demando."

"Are you insane?!"  Lita cries.

Rei stares at her in shock.  "I've heard fool ideas, but this one tops them all!"  

Venus still stares at the floor, unable to move or speak.  'I never knew…I never 
understood…but now…I finally see it.  She can't live…can't function without her other half.  
Somehow…a part of her heart is missing.  I felt it.  Her heart was open for just a moment.  And 
now it's closed - shut off to all life and happiness.  Oh, I wish I could help you, princess.'  "Then 
that's it."  She mumbles.  'I can't give up.  Not yet.  I can almost hear her call for help and a faint 
tremor answering her pain…but…Oh gods!  He must be alive!'  She abruptly stands and looks 
at the other scouts, more determined now than ever.  "Let's go."

They stare at her in disbelief.  "Now!"  She commands. 


*********************************


Once outside the door, Jupiter pulls her aside.  "We can't just leave her like that!"

"I know."  Venus answers.  "But there is nothing more *we* can do for her!"

"We can't just give up."  Mars screams.  "Don't you see?!  It's started already.  I felt an evil 
presence as I entered the room.  I didn't realize it was coming from her until she started acting 
crazy!  It's him!  It's Demando - he's slowing turning her against us."

Venus nods.  "Yes, but it's more than that."

"What do you mean?"  Lita asks.

Venus furrows her brows and begins to pace in the hallway.  After a few moments she turns to 
them.  "Well…it's hard to explain.  It isn't something you can see…just feelings…really.  I 
couldn't ask Mars what it feels like to have a burning fire channel through your body; or Amy - 
what it feels like to have ice and snow; Lita - the pulses of lightning.  Each in its own, are very 
powerful forces.  But no one else would know you have them unless you release them.  Right 
now, she's hurting more than we ever could have imagined.  That pain trapped deep inside 
combined with Demando's evil presence is clouding her mind.  But her heart sings out pure and 
clear.  She either can't hear it or something's blocking it out."

Mars thinks for a few moments.  "There's no way *we* can reach her, is there?"
Mina shakes her head somberly.  "There is only *one* way.  We don't possess the key to her 
heart.  We have to find Darien."  

"How are we going to?"  Ami asks quietly.  "We failed once.  I don't know about the rest of 
you, but I haven't the slightest clue of where to look."

"The Queen.  She will know."  Venus answers decisively.


********************************


Gray eyes wide and confused, Queen Serenity weakly places a shaking hand over her heart.  
She slowly backs away from the stranger.  Her lips tremble as she asks, "Who are you that you 
would play such a cruel trick?"

The man looks at her with a cool glare and calmly answers "This is no trick, I assure you."

She stares at him incredulously, heart beating inside her chest and blood roaring through her 
ears.  'How can this be? This is *not* my husband!  It's so odd.  This man resembles him 
but…No.  Apollo is dead.  Then who…I don't understand!'  Her knees feel weak and her limbs 
begin to tremble.  Feeling dizzy, she grasps the arms of a near-by chair and falls into it.

In an instant, the man rushes and kneels beside her, his armor clanging as his knee hits the floor.  
"My Queen, are you alright?!"

Serenity lifts her head.  'I know that voice.'  Slowly she turns to meet his concerned gaze.  A 
pair of eyes the color of Mercurial pools fill her vision.  Realization dawns on her face and she 
quickly rises, motioning for the guards to leave.  "You may go."

After the soldier closes the door behind him, Serenity coolly turns to the stranger.  "So, prince, 
you are alive." 

Regaining his cold composure, Darien stands and turns away from her.  "Yes.  I'm alive."  
Staring, as if in a trance at the flames of a well-built fire, he tries to speak of Selena.  
"Is…is…she…"

The Queen sits back in her chair and closes her eyes.  Sighing deeply, she replies, "Oh, she's 
well enough - physically.  She has…changed much…as have you I see."  She pauses in thought 
and looks at Darien inquisitively, her eyes boring through his soul.  

He turns and courageously faces her.  "Your majesty, I would like to see her…if I may."  He 
adds.    

Serenity stands and with a wave of her hand she says.  "Of course.  However, she is more than 
likely asleep by now for the hour is late.  Please, stay awhile and visit with us."

"I did not come to play courtly games.  I'm sure you're aware of the risk I take.  I cannot stay."  
'I'm already taking a chance the way it is.  Kunzite would have my head.'  

"How dare you!"  Her eyes flash with anger.  "Things have changed here, Endymion.  You have 
been away from this court for over two years."

"Since when have I ever had knowledge of *your* court?"

"Like it or not, you *are* a member as a Knight to the Silver Millenium.  Or will you and all of 
Earth keep to yourselves now? You selfish man!  Care you nothing of your people?!"

Darien raises his voice and meets her challenge.  "It is because of them that I can't stay.  *You* 
don't live there!  Have you ever even been to Earth?!  My people are starving, they're dying!  
You knew this!  I almost died the night Selena brought me here.  If you knew about me, you 
must have known about all the others!  And yet you did nothing!  You are the selfish one, your 
majesty!"  His eyes grow dark and he punches the wall with his fist.  "I will kill the ones who did 
this to my people.  I swear that I will never let Demando touch another living soul as long as 
blood flows through my veins!  And neither you nor your ramblings are going to stop me!"

"Curse you, Endymion.  Still you have not learned anything!  The source of strength lies in your 
heart and not in your anger!  I suggest you start to use it before it is too late.  Demando will pay 
for his crimes, but you must wait. Let go of this ridiculous sense of male pride and vengeance.  
Our enemies draw closer every moment.  Training should have taught you the importance of 
patience, for hastiness will only kill a fool."  The Queen holds back her anger and tries to calm 
him.  "I spared you for a reason.  You are the one who has the power to help your people.  
You were once completely consumed by anger and hate.  Now it has returned.  But you are a 
man and responsible for your actions.  Can't you put it aside and fight for a greater cause?  Save 
lives - Do not take them.  You must understand.  I meant no ill will by refraining from telling you 
the whole truth.  It would have been revealed in time, as you grew ready to accept it.  I thought 
it all for the best."

"And you also think it best that I not see her.  Why?!"

"I do want you to see her, but…" She sighs as tears fill her eyes.  "You cannot simply walk up 
to her, tell her you're alive and not to worry, and then leave.  She is not the same girl as she 
used to be.  Before you see her, you must accept that.  Her heart was already torn apart once 
and I will *not* stand to see it happen again!  I know why you came to me.  It is because you 
can't sense her, feel her as you could before.  Yes, I know - The bond between you is strong.  
And right now, she needs you.  Selenity has built a wall around herself shutting out life and 
happiness - even me.  She has no hope.  And a person without hope will not live very long.  The 
next time you decide to appear, she may *not* be here."  Her voice quivers.  "If you truly care 
for her, you *will* do what is best for *her.*  Either stay and help us or leave.  There is no 
alternative.  Like you, I cannot afford to play games.  We are both waging a dangerous war.  
Now is the time to be strong and fight.  You can fight alone or you can join us.  But I will tell 
you this, *she* cannot do it alone.  If you turn your back on her now, you shall not be welcome 
here again.  But I beg you, please, if you do decide to stay - do not make yourself known to her 
until the time is right."

Endymion storms toward the door but stops and turns right before leaving.  His eyes blaze with 
anger and his clenched fists tremble.  "Is this all you are about?!  Are lies and deception the only 
things you know?!"

"No!"  She screams.  "This is about *my* daughter whom I love very much.  By the Gods, I will 
not let her heart be broken a second time when you leave! She's dying inside…" She whispers.  
"And I don't know what to do."  She sinks to her knees and buries her face in her hands, 
weeping.

"Queen Serenity, I didn't realize…"

She looks up, her sad eyes pleading with him.  "Please, help her."  She begs.

His own eyes beginning to water, he nods.  "I will do everything I can."  He opens the door.  "I 
love her.  And I never meant to hurt her.  I tried to come sooner but…well…there is no excuse.  
I know the way to the guest wing.  Good night, your majesty."  

"Darien, wait! Stay in disguise.  There are dangerous beings wandering these halls.  Be weary of 
their tricks."  She rises and takes his hand in her own.  "Thank you.  If you succeed, I don’t 
know how I shall repay you."

His eyes remain hard and his voice as cold as ice. She withdraws her hand.  "Don't.  I'm not 
doing this for you or your kingdom.  I owe her my life and if I have to give it to save her, I will."


***************************************


Early the next evening, Selena wanders out onto her balcony.  The Crystal Spire seems to reach 
the very heavens themselves.  Traces of light and shadow scatter as a monumental fountain 
sheds its tears on the Sea of Serenity.  As Earth ascends to peak in the starry sky, she can hear 
the music coming from the ballroom.  She closes her eyes and can almost see the couples going 
round and round as they make their way across the floor.  Beautiful music sounds the rhythms to 
which they move their feet.  Blue lights dance on the silvery crystal columns and the palace 
glows with the presence of life and laughter.  A dizzy feeling overtakes her and she begins to 
sway.  'How I used to dream of nights like these…But now…It all feels so far away…' 
Opening her eyes, she walks back inside and sits down at her vanity.  She wears a pale pink 
gown of silk and embroidered lace.  Ribbons fall in streamers from the two buns of hair.  
Glittering jewels sparkle at her neck and long wisps of hair gracefully frame the curves of her 
face.  Idly playing with a long silvery, strand of hair, she stops to peer at her reflection in the 
mirror.  She can still see him sitting in the entranceway to the balcony, his arms crossed and legs 
stretched out, and his tantalizing azure eyes watching her every move.

########## Flashback #########              

"Well, how do I look?!"  Selenity turns around so he can see her whole dress.  

He continues to stare at her in silence, his midnight blue eyes drowning in her own.  

She takes his silence as disapproval.  "What?  What is it?!  Is my hair not straight?!  Is my dress 
too tight?!  It's not ripped is it?!"  She panics and runs to the mirror, examining her attire 
carefully.  

He chuckles a bit and flashes a lopsided, curious smile.  "No." He answers simply.

She rolls her eyes and sighs.  "Well?  Then how do I look?"

"You look beautiful…" 

Her heart jumps and catches in her throat.  'He thinks *I'm* beautiful!'  

"But…" 

Her happiness and mirth instantly melts away.  It confuses her that instead of being angry; she 
fells hurt and upset. 'When did his opinion suddenly become so important to me?'  She eyes him 
carefully.  'Perhaps we've become friends…or…maybe even…'

"You look like a princess."

She breathes a gigantic sigh of relief.  "How else am I supposed to look, silly?  I *am* a 
princess."

He smiles a bright beautiful smile.  "It's nothing, I guess."  He stands and walks out to the stairs 
of her balcony, leaving her to wonder what he meant.
 

###### End of Flashback #######

  
Looking at her dress, the jewels on her neck, and the ornaments in her hair, she feels a certain 
sense of disgust, as if it were all wrong.  "Is this all I have become?!  Then they were right."  
Silver tears, now flowing freely from her eyes, Selena lets her hair down and nearly rips the 
jewels from her throat.  She wets her hair and lets it dry in curls.  

*And as for your hair, I like it when it's 'unworkable.'  You look like a woodland sprite with your long 
free curls.*   

Stubbornly, she wipes her moist cheeks dry and takes off her dress.  She runs to her closet.  
When she returns, she wears a simple white dress that flows to the floor.  It has no sleeves and 
see-through chiffon silk adds a second layer flowing from a high waist.  Taking dried reeds from 
the banks of the sea and moon lily buds from a vase, she weaves a wreath for her head.  
Reaching for a brush, she sees the grass ring on her finger.  'How did that get there?  I don't even 
remember putting it on.'

*He takes her hand, kisses it and places the ring on her finger.  Then he gently kisses her sweet lips, 
gradually increasing its depth and feeling.*

 Once again, tears threaten to seep from her indigo eyes.  'It will all be over soon.  Everyone will 
be safe.  Please let me be strong.'  

*"You always know how to make me feel better."  'Somehow I think you always will.  You know the real 
me.  You can see through the darkest part of my feelings and make them fade.'*  

'Remembering the words she spoke long ago, she begs the heavens. 'Give me strength.'  
"Tonight, will be my last night before the announcement.” She closes her eyes a moment bringing 
from her memory the vivid image of Darien’s face silhouetted by the warm light of the fire.  
“Tonight, I belong to you.  I cannot do this for much longer.  Soon…I will end it.  Be with me 
always…"


*************************

Endymion shifts uncomfortably and adjusts the black bow tie at his collar, a heavy medallion 
dangling from its center.  Jade rolls his eyes and pokes him in the side.  "Stop fidgeting!  Just go 
look for her already!  The sooner we get this over with, the sooner we can all go home." 

After giving him a dirty look, Darien turns and pushes through the crowd, mumbling curses.  
Wearing an auspicious outfit, covered with the rank insignia of a lunar knight makes him feel 
very uncomfortable, not to mention the blonde hair.  

Jade signals to Nephrite and Zoisite who desperately try to blend in with the crowd while 
following their prince.  Awkwardly, they stand in opposite sides of the ballroom, several ladies 
of court admiring the strangers.  Zoi's eyes look at Jadeite pleadingly for him to get him out of 
there and Nephrite slowly backs into a corner.  He shakes his head.  "They're hopeless.  They 
can't even fend off a bunch of blood sucking women.  But then, if I were them, I wouldn't 
complain."  Gulping a glass of wine, he shrugs.  "Oh well, might as well enjoy the scenery."  He 
scans the ballroom for a suitable partner for the evening.  'My it's been a long time since I last 
went to one of these things…Damn, Zoi and his stupid disgust for parties!  I haven't danced 
with or even talked to a woman in…' His breath catches and he stops dead at the sight of a 
woman dancing with some noble or another.  She wears a long red gown trimmed with satin 
edges and rubies hang from her ears and neck.   Her composure seems calm and proper, but 
her fiery red eyes betray her boredom and disgust.  'Perfect.'  Straightening his jacket and 
pulling down his sleeves, he clears his throat and steps toward the couple, ever so rudely cutting 
in.  

After overcoming her shock and embarrassment, Rei curtsies and begins dancing with the 
stranger.  Some distance away from her former partner, she narrows her eyes at the dashing 
blue-eyed stranger.  "Who are you and where are you from?!"  She demands haughtily.

He chuckles and smiles.  Mars fumes at his amusement at her expense.  "Well, let's just say that 
I'm a stranger to the moon.  A bit of mystery makes life more interesting, doesn't it?"

"No.  I don't think so."  She challenges.  "And you're being a stranger is obvious.  You have no 
manners and are entirely coarse and unfamiliar with court.  I am ashamed to dance with you!"

"Don't worry.  You'll change your mind before the evening is through."  He gives her a devilish 
smile and swirls her around the ballroom even faster than before.

Rei's jaw drops to the floor.  "My, you certainly have a high opinion of yourself, don't you?!  
You are the most arrogant, pompous man I've ever met!"

He tilts his head and winks.  "True.  But I think you need a change.  Besides, you like me."

She can't help but return his smile for he is right.  'There's just something about him that I can't 
ignore.  He's *is* different from all these drab, insipid idiots.  I wonder who he is…' Out of 
nowhere she reaches up and lightly kisses his cheek.  Her face turns beat red afterwards.  "I'm 
so sorry!  I can't believe I just did that!  I don't know what got in to me…" She whispers.

'Eeesh!  I'm gonna have to try that more often!' he decides. But as he lowers his gaze and again 
stares at the lovely vision before him, he reaches a different conclusion.  'Although…maybe…I 
won't ever need to.'  Daringly, he takes her right hand and places it over his heart.  "Don't be 
sorry.  I felt it too."

This time her cheeks turn a healthy shade of pink and she smiles unable to meet his gaze.  She 
dances in silence for the rest of the song, admiring his golden blonde hair and blue eyes - all the 
while wondering if she's crazy for falling for a man in under five minutes.  'Is it possible?'


****************************


Jade stares at the lovely vision standing next to him.  'Her eyes dance like flames and she has a 
spirit that radiates for kilometers.'  Something suddenly grabs him by the back of his collar and 
he begins to choke.  'Oh no!  Not now!'  The pressure releases and he turns back to see Rei 
staring at him with a strange expression.  He gulps.  "Um…if you'll excuse me for a 
moment…I'll…I'll be right back."  'I hope.'

"Wait…are you alright?"  She asks him, startled.

"Yah.  Everything's just…great."  Confused at his abrupt nervousness and the pale color of his 
skin, she nods and watches in disbelief as something seems to be dragging him onto the balcony.  
'Strange.  Something's not right.  He was so cool and confident.  Now he seems afraid of 
something like a little boy.  Oh…just when you think you've finally found the one…he turns out 
to either be a weirdo or a bad guy.  I better check this out.'  She turns and heads toward 
Venus. 

In a yellow, strapless chiffon gown adorned with a white sash, Mina stands surrounded by a 
swarm of young lords and other noblemen, laughing and drinking in their praise.  Still a sense of 
dread and urgency occupies her thoughts.  

"Ahem."  They all turn and the men bow at Mars’ appearance.  "A word, Venus."  She says 
formally.

Fearing the worst, Mina excuses herself.  After walking a short distance, she stops and asks 
worriedly, "Is it the princess?!"

"No.  You mean, she hasn't arrived yet?!"

Venus shakes her head.  "He's not here either.  I've been watching for him.  What if he's left?!  I 
can't find him anywhere.  I can't believe he would leave without seeing her.  Maybe the Queen 
was wrong about him."

"Listen, I have a bad feeling.  There are others here - men I've never seen before.  I feel a 
strange aura emitting from them.  Just take a look at them.  She points to Nephrite and Zoisite, 
who dance with Lita and Ami.  They could be dangerous!"

"They look normal to me!  Ami and Lita happened to save them from shark infested waters.  
And you were having the time of your life before!  What happened?!"  

She sighs.  "I was.  But that was before something really strange happened.  I think we ought to 
check it out."

Venus nods and they both head toward the balcony.


***************************


Kunzite's eyes flash with anger and he holds Jade by his shirt, lifting his youngest brother a foot 
off the ground.  "You have ten seconds to explain what on Earth you are doing here before I kill 
you!  I know you are a reckless, careless idiot, but this time you have gone too far!"

'I knew he'd be furious but I didn't think he'd actually kill me.'  Jade swallows hard.  
"Well…I…" 

A solitary figure walks up behind Kunzite and touches his shoulder.  "It's alright Kunz."

He takes a deep breath and lowers Jade to the ground, releasing him roughly.  Turning to 
Darien, he says with flashing angry eyes,  "My Lord, you shouldn't be here!  None of us 
should!"

Endymion's words are firm and strong.  His blond hair darkens to its natural shade of raven 
black.  "I will decide where I should and should not be!  This is something I have to do.  I *will* 
do it, with or without your help."

Kunzite stares at him in disbelief.  "This is crazy.  We are at the center of the Dark Kingdom's 
next vantage point!  We have enough problems the way it is.  Earth is torn, weak, and 
vulnerable.  You're the only one who can stop it and you want to risk everything for a girl!"

Darien's eyes burn with blue fire and his knuckles turn white as he tightly grips the crystal railing 
of the balcony.  "Yes!" He whips around and waves a hand at Kunzite.   "You don't understand!  
You wonder why I can't fight like I should in practice!  Well, I tell you why!  Half of me is here!  
Don't you get it?!  We are bonded.  The night you found me, she and I exchanged a part of our 
power, even though we didn't know it!" 

"Amazing."  He says riley and takes a deep breath.  "You shouldn't think so highly of your 
precious princess.  Endymion, I think you should sit down."

At Darien's challenging glare, he takes a deep breath.  "Suit yourself."  Kunzite shifts uneasily 
and braces himself.  "I hate to tell you this, but word has it that she is soon to be engaged."  He 
pauses when he sees his prince's mouth fly wide open.  He stands motionless, staring at him in 
disbelief, his eyes confused and hurt.  Reluctantly, Kunzite continues.  "A bond like that wouldn't 
allow her to do anything near it.  I think this Queen has played you for a fool.  I spoke with her 
myself.  She most certainly is the most skilled player of words that I've ever met.  Perhaps it 
was our mutual distrust."  Kunzite shrugs his shoulders.  'I'm sorry.  But you have to forget her.  
I know it hurts.  Believe me.'  He continues casually "In any event, I suggest we return home, 
where we're needed.  If this wedding truly does occur, then may the gods help us."

His words hit Darien like a ton of bricks. *She puts her hands to his lips and shakes her head her 
eyes swelling with tears.  "Shh…I won't ever let you feel alone anymore.  I'll always be here for you.  She 
kisses him in the flickering light of the fire… No!  I won't leave you… I love you.*  The memory sends 
hurt, heartache, and pain surging through his body with a tremendous force.  'It isn't possible, is 
it?  Then how…how can I feel her?  Why do I hear her call for me?  Is it just another dream?  
Why doesn't she answer me?! What is going on?'  Questions swirl through his mind and he 
begins to feel dizzy.  He remembers the Queen's words.  'So that is why you forbid me to come.  
You were trying to hide the truth!  Why can't any of you stop your lies?!'  He calms his rage and 
clamps his eyes shut.  "Who?"  He asks coldly, his eyes and face as cold and hard as ice. He 
tries to prepare himself, fearing the worst.

Kunzite nods his head in disgust and answers reluctantly.  "Demando."  

Darien feels like throwing up.  "No!"  He growls, his fists clenched so hard, he draws his own 
blood.  "You lie!"  Darien roars charging at and plowing into Kunzite, hitting him square in the 
face with a force he has never known or felt before.  

Hearing the commotion, Venus and Mars runs out onto the balcony and shut all the doors 
leading back into the ballroom.  Mina looks on in shock at the violent stranger attacking a 
silvery-white haired man.  "Stop this immediately!"  She commands.

Rei looks indignantly at Jadeite.  "Well?  Don't just stand there.  Do something!"  

Jade grabs Endymion and holds him back.  Kunzite raises a hand to his face and moves his jaw 
to make sure it isn't broken.  Holding his side, he slowly manages to stand and speaks rather 
brokenly.  "I'm sorry…I know you feel betrayed, …but you had to know the truth.  What ever 
sort of bond you feel…just isn't there!"

Darien shakes his head and turns away from them, once again leaning onto the spindled railing.  
Mars steals a glance at Jadeite who seems to be avoiding her.  'What is going on?!'  Her mind 
screams.  'Who are these people?!'   Her eyes grow wide when she sees the shot of black hair 
on the third man and her jaw drops.  "Is…is…that…"

Breathing rapidly, Darien stands with his eyes clenched shut and his head lowered.  He slowly 
looks up at Earth and says to himself,  "Is it true?  Is she going to marry him?"

"Darien!  Is it really you?!"  Venus stares at the tall, muscular man before her.  She remembers 
teaching a lanky, thin boy the finer arts of poetry and court etiquette. She quickly runs to greet 
him, but stops short.   Noting his clenched fists and enraged features, she can almost feel his 
heart breaking in two.  She looks down and confirms his ramblings.  "Yes, it's true."

He closes his eyes again and nods.  "Wait."  Mars interjects hastily.  "It’s not what you think.  
Or at least we hope not."  Jadeite eyes her curiously and takes her hand in his.  "What do you 
mean?"

Mercury quietly enters through the doors followed by a very angry girl with green hair and 
sparkling emerald eyes.  Jupiter searches the balcony, her head whipping from side to side and 
her cheeks red with anger.  "Where is he?!"  She narrows her eyes and trudges up to his back.  
"Well it's about time you finally came back!  The dishes were one thing, but *this* is 
unforgivable!" Darien's back remains still and he doesn't respond.  Appearing out of no where, 
Nephrite places a calming hand on Lita’s shoulder.  "This will not help us.  Look at him.  He 
probably can't even hear you."  He turns to see Zoisite enter through the door.  "About half of 
the room heard that ruckus!"  He turns to Kunzite.  "So what's our next move?"

"We leave."

Alarmed, Venus turns to Kunzite.  "You can't!"  She cries and points to Darien.  "He's the only 
one who can help her!  Darien has got to stay!"

"No."  He contradicts.  "He doesn't.  The prince never should have come here in the first place.  
Your princess has broken him.  Living and dying at another's will only means pain.  If she 
wanted him so much, she would have looked for him."

Mina's eyes flash with anger and she can feel her blood pressure skyrocket.  "How dare you!  
You have no idea what has been going on!"  She slaps him across the face.  She stops in shock 
at what she had just done.  "I'm sorry…I…"

Kunzite shakes his head.  "Perhaps I deserved it.  That still does not change the facts or my 
opinion."

"Then you are not worth my time.  If you think you can trick everyone into thinking you feel no 
emotion, you’re a fool."  She turns with tears in her eyes toward Endymion.  "She thinks you’re 
dead.  And she did try to back after you, but the Queen wouldn't let her.  We searched for you 
for weeks, but we couldn't…" Mina wipes away the tears from her eyes and takes his hand.  
Darien lifts cold, lifeless eyes to look at her.  "She does call to you, doesn't she?"  His brows 
furrow in confusion and he nods slowly.  "I know you try to answer her.  Something keeps 
blocking you out and it's not Selena."

"How do you know this?"  He asks.

"When you communicate you do so with your heart.  That is what makes it easy for me to pick 
up.  You'd be surprised.  Love is the most powerful force I've ever seen."

Mercury nods.  "She thinks that you were killed by Demando.  It is our theory that she will 
marry him to kill him."

"Of course, there is no way to confirm that this is true, but there is something else."  Mars walks 
over to him and takes his hand.  "Darien, do you remember how I taught you to feel the 
presence of forces - good and evil?"

"Yes.  But I don't understand what this has to do with…"

"I felt evil in her.  I think her plan is not going to work out the way she expected.  Somehow 
she's absorbing tremendous amounts of negative energy."

Endymion leans against the balcony railing.  Demando's words echo in his mind.  *Don't worry.  
I'll take good care of her.  The most beautiful jewel in the galaxy, *my* princess, will love 
me, serve me, bear my children, and give me infinite power.  And if the time comes when 
she no longer suits my purpose, she'll die…*  'Gods no!  This can't happen to her!  I won't let 
it!'

"Please.  We've been waiting for you to appear for days.  We don't have much time.  Please, 
help us!"  Venus begs, with tears flowing from her yellow eyes.

"Where is she?"  He asks resolutely.  

"We don’t know."  Jupiter answers solemnly.  "She refused to leave her room."

"I have to find her."


****************************** 


Selenity silently wanders though the intricate maze of gardens surrounding the East Wing of the 
palace.  Finally coming to rest on the edge of the huge fountain, she closes her eyes and tears 
silently fall into the water, causing tiny ripples to form.  Something warm and familiar gently 
brushes her shoulder sending shivers down her spine.  'It can't be…' A large hand rests on her 
face and she snaps open her eyes.  Thinking it is only another dream, Selena looks up at the 
stars.  'Why do you taunt me?!'  Surprisingly, the warmth stays and she slowly turns around.  
Letting out a faint cry, her eyes move in all directions, yet afraid that what she feels and sees is 
nothing more than a ghost.  Selena tries to stand but her knees weakly collapse beneath her.  
Strong arms pull her up and break her fall.  

Darien pulls her close, searches her eyes, and gently strokes her silky hair.  'Gods, she looks so 
beautiful!'  He can't believe she is here - in his arms - once again.

She reaches up a shaking hand to touch his face and shakes her head in disbelief.  'Those 
eyes…it has to be him!'  "D…Darien?"  She whispers hoarsely.  "Is it you?"

He silently nods.  Emotions tear through her soul calling out to him, and she clutches onto his 
shoulders, holding on for dear life.   He lowers his lips to meet hers.  Their kisses are passionate 
and everlasting.  He runs his fingers through her long, silvery hair and runs his hands along the 
curvature of her back, trying desperately to re-familiarize himself with the feel and smell of her 
skin, never wanting nor intending to let go.  Finally, he pauses to stop and wipe away tears with 
his thumbs from her pale cheeks.   She legs weaken beneath her and she begins to shake 
violently.  'This can't be possible!  It just can't!'  She searches his face with tear filled eyes.  
Suddenly she pushes away, feeling as though a cold, clutching hand of death is squeezing her 
heart.  Breathing violently, she refuses to look at him.  'This is what I want, isn't it?  Yes.  
But…why can't I seem to…No.  No!'  Her mind circles haphazardly while her heart screams to 
be back in his loving arms.  A deep, dark voice fills her mind.  'If you stay near him, he will die.  
The one you hate will kill him.  You must not let that happen.  Remember your mission.  
Then…only then…will you be at peace.  Your soul will be free of hurt and pain. Yes…listen to 
me, my child…' Instantly calm, she stares directly at him, her eyes cold and steady.  "I'm sorry.  
I don't know what I was thinking.  It won't happen again."  Darien reaches out to stop her but 
she backs away, staring at him as if her were nothing but an intruder.

"Is something troubling you, my love?"  A cool, crisp voice asks.  Darien freezes as he hears 
*his* voice and slowly turns around, his clenched fists turning white.

Selenity looks at Demando, who is dressed in a white satin tunic with an icy-blue overlay.  She 
smiles slightly almost as if she were drunk.  'I've never felt so strange.  I feel 
happy…and…sad…and angry…I…don't understand.'  She attempts to move toward him but 
staggers.  Before Darien can reach her, Demando rushes to her side.  "Are you alright, *my* 
princess?"

She glances up at him, her eyes glassy and almost…dark.  "Yes."  She purrs.  "But…I feel a bit 
dizzy.  Darling, you must take me to my room.  I need rest."  

"Of course."  He gently lifts her up in his arms, turns around, and begins to ascend the stairs.

"Stop Demando!"  Darien hisses as he runs up the steps behind them.  

Demando smiles and a black symbol on his forehead glows.  He stops abruptly, the tassels and 
decorations of his uniform swinging.  Not even looking behind him, he lowers the princess to the 
ground and continues walking, leaving the two alone in the gardens.  Selenity turns around, her 
eyes cold and lifeless and her manner distant and perfectly refined.  She cocks her head slightly.  
"Prince Endymion.  You have returned."

Darien stares at her in disbelief.  He strides over to her and takes her by the shoulders and 
shakes her gently.  "Selena, what has he done to you?!"  For a brief moment, a look of 
confusion passes over her face.  Selenity shakes her head, pushes his hands away, and moves 
to sit on the ledge of the fountain once more.  She looks deep into the water as if waiting for it 
to answer her confusion. Endymion sits next to her and takes her hands in his.  She stares at 
them intently.  'They still feel so warm.  No!  They are cold and mean nothing!'  Her mind 
screams once more almost tearing her apart and she clenches her fists.   For a moment it 
actually feels as though ice holds not only her hands, but also her heart.  A dark voice echoes 
through her ears.  'The mission.  Think of the mission.  You have to protect him.  Keep him 
away. Your love will kill him this time.'  Her eyes snap open.  'My love?  Who is…'

"Selena, what's wrong?  I can feel your pain.  If you would just tell me… "  He peers down into 
the crystal clear water and sighs.  "I know that I've been gone a long time and that I have no 
right to expect you to…"

Her eyes cloud over and she stands.  "It would take more than a lifetime to make up for the 
years lost.  I'm not sure that even then…we could…" A strange feeling washes over her, 
begging for his warmth even just his presence.  Turning to him she holds out her hand.  "Walk 
with me."  Hesitantly, Darien takes her hand.  Slowly they begin to stroll through the gardens.  
After a long silence, he stops.  "Say something.  Aren't you even going to ask me where I've 
been - what's happened?  Before, you wouldn't rest until you knew everything."

She looks at him with an icy, empty glare.  "The little girl has grown up - much like you have.  
There is nothing to say.  We have gone our separate ways.  Now we must each look to our 
destinies."

He stares at her in disbelief and then turns to look up at Earth.  'This isn't right.  One moment 
she's confused and just seems to have grown up …yet others…she's completely cold and 
distant.  And the way she kisses me…I don't get it.  But…Rei was right.  I feel it.  It's as though 
she were on a drug.  She couldn't possibly have feelings for that…  No!  It's him.  He's 
controlling her.'     

* I think her plan is not going to work out the way she expected.  Somehow she's 
absorbing tremendous amounts of negative energy.*   

'Is this just another part of her plan or is it for real?'  "Selena, even though things change and we 
change with them, deep down inside, the past and the way we once were is still alive.  We just 
have to remember…"

She cuts him off and for the first time, her voice turns rigid and tears threaten to fall.  "I don't 
want to remember!  That part of me is gone.  All these years, I thought you were dead!  The 
past is now dead with you and it will *stay* that way.  It must!"

"The past mingled with the present is what makes you who you are.  You can't just…"   

"Then I suppose I am no one."  She spits bitterly.  "I have a simple task to perform.  I refuse to 
let anything interfere with it!"

"Can't or won't?"  He asks simply.

She begins to shake.  Everything feels as though it's pressing in on her and the air in her lungs is 
being sucked out.  'I have to get out of here.  I can't think I…' She rubs her temples.  Knowing 
she will not be able to keep up her façade much longer, she desperately reaches for all her self-
control to calm her shaking body and steady her voice.

Once again, Darien reaches out for her and tries to take her in his arms.  "Let me help you."

Her head spins.  'This feels so good…so right.  Then why…' She roughly pushes him away, 
straightens her dress and points her chin up defiantly,  "Good night, Prince Endymion.  I hope 
your stay with us will be a pleasant and enjoyable one."

He shakes his head incredulously.  "Selena…I…"

"Goodnight."  She repeats firmly and leaves Darien staring after her.

From the shadows, Demando smiles.  'Everything is working beautifully.'


****************************

To be concluded in chapter 10…


S2jemeko@atlas.vcu.edu