Hello, moonies!
This story is for you all, so enjoy it!

Sailor Moon and all the stuff involving it was created by the great
Naoko-sama, not me! But, in the other hand, the story and some
characters like Arda, Etlio, Calice and Hyperion are mine, not
their names cause I'm borrowing them from Greek mythology and
Tolkien's universe. I know that there are like 1000 Hyperions, but
I'm not taking that name from any fic, so, don't blame me.

Well, if you want to say anything about the story, or just need
something,
e-mail me to:
susyte@hotmail.com

Thank you to my readers! I love you all!

Sincerely,

Lady Susyte

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Rising of a Silver Utopia
By
Lady Susyte

Part I: Never say Never...

Chapter X

Endymion stood still trying to figure out what Serena meant by saying
"wait for me". What would she like to do at early midnight at his
chambers? Suddenly, the young prince remembered the sweet smile on his
beloved's face and turned into a deep crimson deducing what was in the
girl's mind. He started walking towards his room with a million things
inside of his mind, searching for the right words to say in an hour when
the princess was supposed to arrive. The way to the west wing of the
palace was short, but still, long enough to make the prince think of
about a thousand possibilities of what could might happen if he couldn't
manage the situation.
-She's a princess! -thought Endymion-. I can't do this! What if Queen
Serenity finds out? They'll decapitate me before I can explain. What am
I going to do?
He entered his room and closed the door behind his back locking it as he
let himself into the stuffed couch closing his eyes.
-Oh, Serena, what are you thinking? -he thought out loud sighing.
The prince closed his eyes trying to take a short nap before the girl's
arrival, but he couldn't stay still for more than two seconds. Finally he
took a look at his star shaped watch, and looking it left teen minutes
before eleven, he stood up and walking from one side from the room to the
other he rehearsed the words he was going to tell the princess:
-Serena, I know what you're thinking, but, why don't we leave that for
latter? No! That wouldn't work! Lets see...Serena, we just meet and that
would totally ruin our relationship. No! It's even sillier that the last
one; what about...Serena, that whole thing is kinda crazy, why don't we
just sit and talk? Nooooo! What would I say then? This whole thing is
driving me crazy: I don't want to put her in any risk, but I don't want
to lose her. If I could only...
Before the prince could finish, a light knock interrupted him as his
heart started to beat faster and faster.
-Who is it? -he asked in a trembling voice.
-It's me Endymion, Serena -said the girl from the other side of the door.
The young man stood by the door and breathed deeply, then lifted his
right hand holding the door's lock, rotating it as he opened the door
slowly.
-Serena? Is that you? -exclaimed the prince as he opened the door
completely finding the princess.
-Of course it's me! Now, may I come in? -asked her giggling.
-Sure -answered Endymion moving aside-. But before anything, tell me
something: why are you dressed like that?
Serena was wearing a beautiful princess style dress with a basque
waistline, an ivory corset bodice that's edged with ruffles, flowers and
a center burgundy bow, sheer lacy bell aubergine chiffon sleeves, and a
taffeta tea-length aubergine skirt with a chiffon floor length overskirt.
She had her hair arranged in a single bun holding a long ponytail falling
down her back, and on her hands, she was holding a man's gown.
-This is the way normal selenite teenagers dress -said Serena turning
around to show Endymion her dress -. Tell me, how do I look?
-You look gorgeous, but I still can't understand -said the prince looking
at her.
-Put this on: I'll explain to you latter -answered Serena handling the
gown to Endymion.
-Okay -he said doubtful walking towards his bathroom.
A few minutes latter the prince entered back to the room wearing a pair
of dark brown trousers, a black shirt and over it a brown vest fitted by
a black belt. On his feet, he was wearing a pair of black boot, and tied
around his neck, a long black cloak.
-I look stupid! -exclaimed Endymion looking at his reflection on the
mirror.
-That's the way young men dress here on the moon, and to be honest, I
think you look really cute in that -said Serena walking towards him.
-Wait, Serena, I'm not sure what's in your mind, but, this is wrong, I
mean, you're a princess! -said the prince moving away.
-Don't be such a crybaby: I do this every year! -said Serena getting
closer to him.
-Every year? With who? -asked the prince blushing a little.
-Well, mostly with the scouts -answered Serena looking a bit disappointed.
-The sailor scouts?! -exclaimed Endymion turning into a deep shade of red.
-Yeah, but this years they're so busy with their new boyfriends, that
they can't come with me to the moon feast -said Serena sighing.
-You mean, we're going to the festival? -asked the prince confused.
-Of course! What were you thinking? -said Serena laughing-. Now, we must
go: the fair will start by midnight.
-I should know she's the most innocent creature on the universe -thought
Endymion smiling-. How could I think something like *that*?!
Serena started walking towards the door, but then, Endymion grabbed her
hand and looking at her, he said:
-Before we go, would you tell what this whole festival madness is about?
-Sure! -said Serena- let's sit and I'll explain  it to you since the
beginning.
Endymion nodded and the couple sat on the couch, one next to the other as
Serena asked thoughtful:
-Where should I start?
-What about telling me why are we dressed like this? -said they prince
looking down at his gown.
-Okay, as you've seen, my mother organize great parties and banquets
during the Moon Feast, but it has nothing to do with the real fairs, the
ones that gets place out there, at town, specially on the third day of
the festival, that's why every year, the scouts and I get out of the
palace by day-break so we can go to the Golden Sunrise Festival or
"Mereth-Lauremoth", that take's place during the third day from midnight
until dawn, when, according to the legend, the Sun goddess, Lotharelen,
opens a gate between life and death to let the warrior's souls dead
during war rest in peace, so commoners get together and say one last
goodbye to their beloved during this day. This whole thing started after
the Long War eleven years ago, where we selenites got free form the Dark
Kingdom, but all at the expense of many selenite lives, so fifteen days
after the war's ending, the moon people celebrates their independence and
they pay a tribute to the soldiers that gave their lives during this
bloody war, in a festival that last until the Moon Rising Day or "Mereth
Ithilmoth", on July 20, when a big party takes place, and people light up
little paper lamps and hang up them on their porches as the
representation of our kingdom's rising after war, like the sun after a
dark night.
-What a beautiful story -said Endymion thoughtful- but you didn't tell me
why are we dressed like this.
-Simple, haven't you heard that saying that says "when in Rome, do as the
Romans do"? That's exactly what we're going to do -said Serena giggling-
as you know we'll spend the night surrounded by commoners, so we can't go
there dressed like an earthling prince and the moon princes, we have to
act, talk and dress like them, and by the why, we can't use our names
either: so I'll be Aneres, a merchant's daughter.
-Aneres? -asked Endymion laughing-. What kinda name is that?
-It's Serena backwards -answered the princess giggling.
-Then, I'll call you just Ane -said the prince lovingly-. And what about
me?
-You'll be an student called...Darien -said Serena thoughtful.
-Darien...? -asked Endymion doubtful-. It sounds pretty stupid!
-I think it sounds nice -said Serena prideful- besides, it comes from
"Arien", the lady chosen by the gods to rule the sun's ship.*
-Now it sound gay to me, but if you like it, I'll use it for you -said
the prince kissing her hand.
-Now, let's go! It's almost twelve! -said Serena standing up as she
grabbed the prince's hand pulling him towards the door as he took a
little bag in his hand and attached it to his belt.
Serena stepped out of the bedroom and took a look around the corridor to
make herself sure that no one was there, then walked silently with the
prince behind, but suddenly, she stopped walking and stood in front of a
wall and searched for her key.
-I know that you've lived here more than me, but, isn't the exit right
that way? -asked the prince in a sarcastic tone pointing the other side
of the corridor.
-Shhh! They'll hear us! -murmured the princess moving a curtain.
-who? -asked Endymion confused.
-The guards: if they find us, we'll have to stay home -said Serena
softly- and answering to your question, we can't use the door, so we'll
use this!
A soon as Serena started walking, a gate opened behind the curtain
showing a long dark corridor.
-A secret passage? -asked the prince amazed.
-Yes: this wouldn't be called a palace if it doesn't had secret passages
-said Serena with a little smile, then, she took a torch and lighted it
saying: -follow me.
The walked all the way down the long and dark corridor and went down a
high stairway after finding an other aisle surrounded by darkness. Each
corridor lead to an other, as if they were a labyrinth all over the huge
palace, but Serena seemed to know them as her own hand's palm. At last,
the corridor ended before a small ladder, this ones high and narrow
leading to a sewder like door. As she started climbing upon it, Endymion
stopped and said:
-Serena...
-It's Aneres! -interrupted Serena turning to face him jumping back to the
tunnel.
-We haven't left the palace yet! Why should I call you like that? -asked
him a little upset.
-It's better to get used to it now -answered Serena- now, *Darien*,
what's up?
-I ask the same question: what's up there? -asked him pointing the ladder.
-The street, just crossing the palace's walls -said Serena with a
suspicious smile.
-But I guess your mother must know about this whole passages spider web:
why are you so calm? -asked Endymion looking around.
-She does know, but she doesn't know that I know -said Serena giggling.
-Then, how did you find out about this? You seem to know this place quite
well -said the prince leaning on the wall.
-When I was a little girl, I found the planes of the palace in my father's
office, and I took them to my room. it was fun, because one day I was
playing hide and seek with the scouts, and I decided to hide inside the
passages, but I forgot to take the planes with my and I got lost. The
scout started to get worried when they couldn't find me, so they went
told my dad about it. Thanks God he found the planes at my room and
rescue my down here -said Serena smiling.
-And I guess he snarled you as he never did -odd Endymion looking at her.
-Actually, no -said Serena closing her eyes thoughtful-. I was only four,
and he found me crying in one of the tunnels, so he lift me in his arms
and comfort me telling me not to be afraid, then the two of us started
laughing about what had happened and he showed me the whole passages. I
still can remember it as if it were yesterday.
-So, you were a prankish girl, uh? -asked the prince laughing.
-Were? No! I AM a prankish girl -answered Serena laughing as I well. Now,
let's go. It's getting late.
Serena climbed the ladder and opened the little door as she stepped to
the deserted stone street being followed by the prince, then she closed
the door and took a look at the distance to see the lighted city on the
east.
-What a pretty night. I wonder how the moon must be shinning tonight
-said Endymion looking up to the sky.
-I forgot! -exclaimed Serena as she passed her hand over her forehead
making the golden crescent moon to disappear-. Better this way. Now we
can go.
-How did you do that? -exclaimed the prince amazed.
-Easy; the same way I defeated you this morning: with magic! -said Serena
winking an eye at him.
-Wait a second: you didn't defeat me! It was a tie! -said Endymion a bit
upset.
-Don't be mad at me, I was kidding -said Serena stepping closer to him-.
Now, shall we go, Darien?
-Sure, Ane -answered the prince holding her hand as the two started
walking towards the town.
The main moon city was small but shelter and welcoming. People were
hospitable and joyful, and the whole place was filled with the music and
laughter. All over the principal street, there were little kiosks were
the selenites were selling candies and souvenirs, and all kinds of food
specially made for the festival. Also typical fair games were on tents
full of the little moon kinds, but most of the people there, were
teenagers, mainly, young couples.
Endymion looked astonished the surrounding and the atmosphere around gave
him to smile without any reason, but then his gaze were focused on the
most beautiful thing all over the moon: the young lady standing next to
him. He hadn't had the time to see how gorgeous she looked in that gown,
especially with that big smile on her porcelain face.
-Come on! We're not going to stay here all night, lets go an eat some
real selenite food. I'll pay -said Serena pulling him by his hand as she
approached a little tent where an old man was attending the establishment.
-Aneres! It's you! I haven't seen you since last year's festival
-exclaimed the old man grinning.
-Hi, Gaspar! It's been a long time! -said Serena greeting him with a
friendly hug.
-Who's your friend? I haven't seen him before -said Gaspar looking at
Endymion standing behind the girl.
-He's Darien, and his studding at Earth, that's why you haven't seen him,
although his parent's are selenite -said Ane stepping back to stand next
to her prince.
-Nice to meet you, Darien -said Gaspar shaking Endymion's hand-. I'm the
town's librarian, Gaspar.
-I'm pleased to meet you -answered the prince politely.
-He's also the cleverest man in town! He taught me all about the festival
and the legends I told you about -said Serena looking at Endymion as the
old man laughed-. And he's also a wizard!
-A diviner, to be exact, but I haven't work my magic for years. I was
about Darien's age when I decided to become a wizard, but now, I spend
most of my time reading books from all over the galaxy -answered Gaspar
sitting on a chair in front of the desk inside the tent.
-And what are you doing here, at the festival? -asked Serena curious.
-I'm selling some scrolls and books. Maybe you can take a look at them
-answered the elder man pointing a pile of papers on one side of the desk.
Endymion stepped forwards and starting looking each one of the papers
lying on the table, but there was only one that caught his attention. It
was an old scroll written in ancient earthling runes, turned yellow from
years, and a big piece of it was missing, as if someone had ripped it.
Endymion quickly read the text written in the paper, and it said
something like this:

Four stars will fall from the sky
Crashing the glory of the Black Knight
Four stars from a dark land
Four stars disguised in white
The sweet smile of a silver light
Sharpen as a lance, gentle as a sigh
Will shine breaking out the night
And will cut the legend into two halves
As the Main Event prevents the rise
Of the kingdom of the mighty and the wise;
Of the King that never dies
The Rising of...

Just in the middle of the phrase, the text were cut abruptly, almost
intentionally trying to hide a big part of the poem. Endymion went
puzzled as he read the paper, and holding it in his hand he asked Gaspar:
-How much is this?
-That one is not for sale -said Gaspar taking the scroll from Darien-.
This belongs to my personal collection: I wonder how did it get here.
-Well, I think I could buy something, but I forgot all my money -said
Serena sadly.
-You've always been one of my best clients, so I'll let you pick any
scroll you want, as a gift from me to my little Aneres -said the old man
with a sweet smile.
-Really? Any one? -asked Serena grinning.
-Sure! Now: what scroll do you want? -asked Gaspar pointing the pile.
-I'll pick... -said Serena thoughtful- the one about...Beren and Luthien.
-I knew you'll pick that one -said Gaspar searching the scroll-. Here it
is! Enjoy it!
-Thank you a lot, Gaspar -said Serena taking the scroll in her hands-.
I must go know. Bye!
-Farewell -said the old man politely.
-Lets go, Darien -said Serena grabbing Endymion's arm, getting him away
from his trance.
The couple left the tent and started walking again down the main street,
one next to each other but without holding hands.
-So, this guy Gaspar travels a lot to Earth, uh?-asked Endymion looking
at Serena.
Not lately, but he studied Great Divination with one of the most famous
Archimages of Earth -answered Serena-. But, anyway, why are you so
interested?
-That scroll I was looking at -said Endymion thoughtful.
-What's with it? -asked Serena holding his arm.
-It was written in old earthling runes, a language that only Earth
Royalty are allowed to use, and the weirdest part is that it was a poem
talking about the starts falling and the rise of a kingdom -answered the
prince puzzled.
-Well, maybe it was a ballad about the Long War, they're very common
-said the princess.
-I don't think so: instead of been written in the past, it was written in
the future -said Darien concerned-, and anyway, why could been Gaspar
been so interested in something he couldn't read?
-You know, he's a collector, that's why he likes to buy all kind of
scrolls -answered Serena starting to despair.
-But I still can't understand why did he freak out when I intended to buy
it -exclaimed the prince.
-Stop it! Maybe it's very important to him -said Serena impatient-.
You're acting like a total paranoid! Why can't you accept that a normal
person has something from your planet? Okay, you're a prince, but you're
still a human being, like all the commoners!
-You're right...I'm so sorry -said Endymion softly holding her in his
arms-. I didn't mean to hurt you, I just...fell so weird, like a déjà vu.
I know I've heard the poem in that scroll before, but I can't remember
where.
-It's okay, I also fell like that sometimes, but you can't expect to
understand everything in the world -said Serena hugging him back-. Now,
lets go and eat some nimbas.
-"Nimbas"? Are those any kind of snake meat or something? -asked the
prince rising an eyebrow
-Don't be silly! "Nimbas" is an ancient word that means "white bread"
-said Serena laughing as she started walking again holding Endymion's
hand-. They're a kind of sweet biscuits that are only available during
the festival. You'll love it, I promise.
-Don't worry, I trust you -said Endymion looking at her lovingly.
The two entered an other establishment with a big counter, and there,
lots of cakes and candies. The young princess was about to ask for two
big nimbas, but then, she remembered that she had forgot her gold, so she
turned around to face her partner and looked at him with expectant eyes
as he laughing saying:
-Okay, I'll pay.
-How did you know...? -asked Serena curious.
-What you were about to ask? -finished the prince for her-. Easy, there's
also a little of that weird "magic" inside of me.
-Have you been reading me mind? -exclaimed Serena blushing.
-I've never said that -answered Endymion as he paid for the two biscuits
and have Serena hers.
Endymion and Serena left the tent and walked towards a small square with
a big fountain in the middle and little benches around it. The two sat on
one of the benches as the prince looked at the piece of food in his hands
with an awe face.
-Don't worry, the bread wont eat you; it's the opposite way: you're
supposed to eat it -said Serena teasingly.
-Ha, ha, ha, you're so funny -said the prince sarcastically, then, he
breathed deeply and took a big bite of the biscuit tasting it.
-So? What do you think? -asked Serena looking at him curious.
-Well -said Endymion seriously after swallowing his food- it's delicious!
-I told you! -said Serena eating a bit of her own nimbas- It looks like
crap, but tastes great.
-Yeah, but tell me, if they're so good, why don't you serve that at the
palace? -asked the prince confused.
-They're just common food that doesn't deserves to be served in High
Queen Serenity's table -answered Serena sarcastically, imitating the
noble's accent-. Sometimes my mother acts exactly like that court-people
I hate! When I become queen, I'll make a law ordering chefs to put
"nimbas" in every festival menu!
-You really think a lot about the future -said Endymion laughing-. I'm
sure you'll be a great ruler, and, you know what I will do when I become
king?
-What? -asked Serena looking at him.
-First of all, kidnap a selenite chef -said the prince with his gaze
locked on hers- and second of all, kidnap *you*.
-What are you saying? -asked Serena blushing-. A whole army will go to
Earth and rescue me!
-And I'll send two whole armies to stop them -said the prince getting
closer to her.
-Then, the scouts will go and defeat your armies -added Serena taking his
hand.
-And I'll send my generals and they'll kidnap them too -said Endymion
caressing her cheek.
-Okay, I surrender -said Serena resting her head on his shoulder-. I'll
let you kidnap me.
Endymion smiled brightly and passed his arm behind her back holding her
close to him as the two finished eating their biscuits.
The night went on and the two spent the evening eating, playing and
enjoying each other's company. The soft breeze blew cooling the warm
night air, and the big clock tower's bells announced the feast's last
hour with four loud peals.
-Well, Darien, we've eaten ice cream, nimbas, cakes, cotton candy, and
you've win this cute teddy bear for me at the games, now, what do you
want to do? -asked Serena hugging the bear with one hand, and Endymion's
arm with the other as they approached a little tent.
-Let's see, Ane...I have money just for one more thing -said the prince
looking in his money bag- so, I'll buy anything you want.
-Really? I mean...I can't accept that: you've been buying me things all
night -said Serena looking up at him.
-Come on, I've never had that fun in years, and all thanks to you -said
Endymion caressing her cheek with his free hand- I want to show you my
gratitude.
The tent's counter was full with jewelry of all kinds and colors, and an
old man, with a beard and long white hair, dressed in a black cloak was
attending the establishment. Serena looked at the gold and silver pieces,
adorned with pretty gems astonished with their beauty and their special
shine, but there were one piece that caught her whole attention.
-Darien, look! -exclaimed Serena pointing at a little star shaped locket-
Isn't it beautiful?
-Yes it is -said the prince looking at it- do you want it?
-It must be very expensive -answered Serena sadly.
-Excuse me, Sir -said Darien to the old man-. How much does the locket
cost?
-Oh...the Star Locket...that piece is totally unique -said the old man
smiling as he took the jewel in his hand-. That little jewel has a long
story behind, but I'll just say that it's magical, and that it picks it
owner.
-Yeah, great, but how much is it? -asked Endymion this time.
-Hehehe, you young people want everything right now, but before I tell
you, I must say that this locket belonged to the Moon Goddess, and she
specially made this for her lover, a human being -said the man solemnly-.
Inside of it, the whole moon magic is locked, and only a few chosen ones
are able to feel it.
-And the price... -said Endymion starting to disappear.
-How much gold have you got? -asked the old man.
-Five pieces -answered the prince counting the money in the velvet bag.
-That will be enough -said the man smiling, as he gave the locket to
Darien receiving the gold coins.
-Take, Ane, this is yours -said Endymion lovingly giving the jewel to his
princess- this is my belated birthday present to you.
-Oh, thank you Darien -exclaimed Serena hugging him.
-I know they're the chosen ones -thought the old man looking at the
couple-. But I could swear I've seen this girl before...somewhere.

-I still cant believe you bought the locket for me -exclaimed Serena
after leaving the establishment.
-Well, believe it -said the prince in an arrogant tone as he rose his
head prideful. And you know, my birthday will be in three weeks, so I
hope you'll be as generous as me.
-You're not that cute at all -answered Serena upset-. I think for your
birthday I wont give you anything just to teach you a lesson about being
greedy and mean, right Endy-chan?
-Endy-chan? -asked the prince rising an eyebrow-. That sounds even
sillier than "Darien"!
-I wasn't talking to you: Endy-chan is my bear! -said Serena hugging the
teddy bear in her arms- Isn't he cute with the locket around his neck?
-Yeah, almost as cute as baby with a sword -answered Endymion
sarcastically-. I just don't get why are you using my name on that...toy!
-He's got black hair and blue eyes, like you, and also you're as grumpy
and cranky as a bear! -answered Serena giggling.
-Ha, ha, ha, I'll buy a hyena and I'll call *her* Sery-chan because the
same as you, she has to laugh about everything I say -said the prince
with a sarcastic smile.
-Don't get upset, is just that you look so lovely when you're mad -said
Serena leaning her head on his shoulder.
-Lovely as your teddy bear? -asked Endymion this time putting an arm
around her waist.
-No, lovely as the jerk that called me spoiled the first time we met
-said Serena looking into his blue eyes.
-I didn't call you spoiled, I just said that all princesses enjoy balls
while their people are starving -said Endymion softly moving his face
closer to hers.
-What's the difference, anyway? -murmured Serena, but when her lips were
about to touch Endymion's, she felt chills down her spine, and a tent
called her attention, so without thinking, she moved her head away and
stopped while she said:
-Look at that tent over there: I've never seen it before.
-Oh, it's just an other of those humbug fortunetellers, and anyway, I'm
out of money, remember? -said Endymion disillusioned about the princess
breaking the romance.
-I know, but I would like to go and take a look -said Serena looking at
him- pretty please...
-Okay -answered the prince sighing-. But remember that I can't pay
anything more.
-It would be just a quick look, and then we'll return to the palace: I
promise -said Serena walking towards the tent holding Endymion's hand.
The little kiosk was fully made by a deep indigo velvet that almost faded
as it merged with the night sky. A pair of silver round cords, finished
in a tassel kept opened the tent, but the interior of it was hidden
behind a veil curtain. Serena carefully putted it aside as she entered
the tent finding it surrounded by candles of all sizes, but none of them
were of any color but white. In the middle of the small establishment,
there were a round carpet showing the symbol of Divination, and
surrounded by shadows, there was a man sitting, dressed in a gray,
almost silver cloak with a hood hiding his lowered head, and his ghostly
white hands folded on his knees. An air of solemnity surrounded the
fortuneteller, equipped with anything but his mind and spirit.
-Have a seat, Aneres, I've been waiting for you, or shall I call you
Serena? -asked the man rising his look at the young maiden standing by
the door, reveling a pair of penetrating gray-blue eyes as two ice stars
in perfect harmony with the young man's features.
-How...how did you know that? -asked Serena with a trembling voice.
-I'm a diviner, I know everything about your past, your present, and your
future too -answered the fortuneteller-. Would you like to know what
fate's keeping for you?
-I would love to, but I have no money left, so...it will be next time
-said Serena walking towards the door.
-Wait, princess, you don't need to pay me anything -said the man a little
louder-. I'm not a diviner because it's my business: I'm a diviner
because that's my destiny, so, have a seat so I can tell you yours.
-All right -said Serena doubtfully sitting on the carpet- but I must warn
you, if you try to do anything...
-I won't hurt you, I promise -interrupted the diviner.
The fortuneteller was totally mysterious. His voice was soft and deep as
the ocean, somehow tranquilizing, and his white skin reminded her of the
puffy clouds. He seemed to be a strong but short man, and his silky cloak
let see a few strings of his silver hair. He, more than handsome, was
beautiful, the portrait of harmony, to anyone, a vision of what
perfection would be.
-Ane, what's going on? -asked Endymion opening the curtain-. I thought it
would be a quick look.
-Sorry, Darien, but he was about to tell me my destiny -said Serena
turning to face the prince.
Endymion sighed and walked to the carpet where the princess were siting,
and kneeling next to her, he murmured into her ear:
-Serena, remember we don't have any money left, and the sun will rise
soon.
-Don't worry, I won't charge you anything, my prince -said the
fortuneteller looking at Endymion.
-How...how did he know?! -exclaimed Darien amazed, almost upset-. Did you
told him who I am?
-I didn't say anything -answered Serena calmly-. He just guessed: that's
what soothsayers do.
-Sorry, princess, but I'm not a soothsayer and I didn't guess -said the
young man-. I'm a diviner and I foreknow things before they happen.
-Whatever -said Endymion coldly- diviner, fortune-teller or soothsayer, I
don't believe in such things.
-You should -added the man with silver hair.
-But I won't -answered the prince finally.
-Stop arguing! -interrupted Serena-. Darien, please sit next to me so he
can read our fortune.
-Our? I don't think so: if you want your destiny to be read, fine, but I
prefer to live the present -said the prince rising-. I'll wait for you
outside.
As soon as Endymion left, Serena sighed, and turning to face the young
man sitting in front of her, she said:
-Sorry about that: Darien can be very arrogant and selfish, but I'm sure
he didn't meant to insult you.
-He didn't insult me, Serena, he's just skeptical like most of the
earthlings -answered the man smiling-. By the way, I'm Lomarth.
-Nice to meet you -said Serena shaking his hand- now...
-I know -interrupted Lomarth-. Your destiny.
The diviner shut up and closed his eyes as a cold wind entered the tent
blowing all the candles as a big cloud of silver smoke formed in front of
the princess. Then, Lomarth rose his arms as the candles lighted with a
blue fire projecting the shadow of a vision in the smoke cloud.
-Close your eyes and listen -said the man solemnly rising his head.
Serena nodded and did exactly what Lomarth said as a estrange presence
invaded the place. The diviner's voice became deeper, as if he were the
echo of distant words, and after being murmuring weird things in rare
languages, he shut up, for a long while before starting to talk again.
-Princess Serena -he said in some kind of trance-. You've been rose to
become a queen and that's exactly what you'll be: men will admire you and
women will envy you. Your name will be an echo of power. Peace will
prevail in your kingdom, but a cloud of sadness will darken your soul.
That's your distant future.
Lomarth stopped talking and breathed deeply, then, he rose his arms again
and the blue fire became green, and a new smoke cloud appeared.
-I see many important events happening in your near future -said the man
this time- and the way you act and the decisions you make can modify your
distant future. I see you dressed in a white gown, and I see four stars
falling from the sky crushing the glory of a Black Knight...
Before he could continue, a wild wind blew the candles and Lomarth
fainted falling on the carpet.
-Lomarth? Are you all right? -exclaimed Serena lifting his head as he
opened his eyes weakly as he tried to smile.
-I'm okay -answered the diviner getting into a sitting position-. But I
don't think I could tell you anything more about your destiny, so, as the
prince said, you'll have to live the present.
-But I need to know! -said Serena desperately-. I must find out who the
Black Knight is!
-No you don't -answered Lomarth calmly- destiny can be tricky, and it's
not written in stone: maybe all things I've told you can change with one
word you say right now, you never know.
-So, if the future's not important to you, then why are you a diviner?
-asked the princess confused.
-I've already told you: it's my destiny -said the man rising- and anyway,
divination is not just about the future: it depends also on the past and
the present.
-Thank you, anyway -said Serena getting into her feet-. I'll find a way
to pay you, but please, don't tell anyone about my real identity.
-Don't worry, princess, what is said in this tent, never leave it -said
Lomarth-. Now, good luck...you'll need it.
-Yeah, bye -said Serena starting to get really frightened as she left the
tent quickly.

-There you are, Ane. I've been waiting for you for a long while -said
Endymion as the princess exited the establishment looking pale.
-Sorry -managed to say Serena softly as she walked towards the prince.
-Sorry? I was worried to death! I thought something happened to you!
-exclaimed the young man upset.
-I said I'm sorry -said Serena lowering her head-. I didn't mean...
-It's okay -interrupted Endymion holding her in his arms- Sery, you're
trembling...are you all right?
-I'm fine -answered Serena rising his gaze at his-. Did you just called
me "Sery"?
-Well, I think it's a nice nickname for you -said the prince smiling-
besides, you can call me Endy, but not in front of my court: I don't want
them to start gossiping.
-Don't worry, I won't...Endy -said Serena resting her head in his chest.
-Now, let's go, it's almost five -said the prince kissing the top of her
head.
Serena nodded and took his arm as the two turned and started walking back
to the palace. The sky was starting to turn into a true blue shade
grading from the indigo blue of the top of the celestial sphere. The
morning star shone brightly near the horizon and a soft breeze blew from
the mountains sending a sweet, fresh perfume. They crossed the whole town
and took the stone pad back to the secret entrance of the palace that
Serena opened making herself sure that there were no guards around. The
couple entered the dark tunnel and started walking down the pad silently.
I while passed and the princess opened a door. She made a sing telling
Endymion to stay still while she looked if there were anyone out there,
and after taking her head outside, she exited the tunnel and said looking
at the prince.
-The coast is clear. Come with me.
He did as she said and he found himself in the middle of a gazebo in one
of the gardens.
-I thought we were returning to the west wing of the palace -said
Endymion confused.
-Remember the deal we made the other day? -said Serena looking at him-
The one about showing you the "morning glory"?
-Yes, why? -asked the prince a bit curious.
-Follow me -said Serena with a suspicious look she left the gazebo
heading to a bushes. They finally got into the hidden garden, the one
with the marble fountain in the middle as the sky began to turn clearer.
-So? -asked the prince breaking the silence-. What are we doing here?
-Wait and you'll see -said the princess heading to the fountain.
She looked her reflection on the water and remembering that she had
erased her crescent moon, she passed her hand in front of her forehead
making it to appear again.
-It's know or never -thought Endymion glancing at his beloved sitting by
the fountain-. She's starting to avoid me: if I don't tell her that I
love her, I'll lose her forever.
-Endy, come! -exclaimed Serena as the prince started to walk quickly
towards the fountain.
-Yes? What is it? -asked Endymion curious.
-Look at the blue buds, there're opening! -answered Serena as he sat next
to her looking the how flowers were opening with a smile on his face.
Some of them were all ready in full bloom when the sun appeared on the
east painting the sky with colors.
-Settled debt -said Serena giggling as she turned to look at the man
sitting next to her.
Endymion took her hand on his and asked:
-Are you cold?
-A little -said Serena holding herself.
-If you want, I can take of my cloak and give it to you -said the prince
about to rise.
-No! -interrupted Serena- I have a better idea...
With this, she leaned against him, as he passed his arm behind her back
covering her with the velvet cape.
-Endy, can I ask you something? -asked Serena softly taking his free hand.
-Yes, what is it? -said the prince sweetly.
-Were you really worried about me? -asked the princess concerned.
-Of course I was! You know what I think about fortune-tellers: I don't
trust them one bit -said Endymion a bit upset.
-So...you care about me? -asked Serena this time with a smile.
He remained silent for one second looking at her gorgeous smile and
kissing her forehead he answered:
-You can't imagine how much I care about you. I would die if anything
ever happens to you.
-You're so sweet -said Serena hugging him tight-. Thank you...
-Thank you for what? -asked him hugging her back.
-For being here with me, and also for this -said the princess holding the
locket on one hand.
-Let me see it -said Endymion as Serena gave him the locket. He carefully
opened it as a beautiful melody filled the air.
-It's a music box -she said smiling-. Maybe that's the "moon magic" that
the old man mentioned.
Endymion closed the locket and put it back around the bear's neck as he
said:
-Well, Serena, from now on this is going to be *our* song.
-And Endy-chan's -said the princess giggling.
Endymion nodded and held her close to him as she leaned against his chest.
The two of them remained silent as the sun rose completely, as the little
water drops over the flowers shone with the rays. The prince breathed
deeply and released the air in a long sigh as he said:
-Sery, since you left the Earth there's something I've been longing to
tell you...
He made a short pause and then, he breath deeply once again as said
softly:
-Serena, I...I...
He shut up and lowered his head to look at Serena, but instead of finding
her blushed and looking curious, he found the young princess asleep in
his arms with a little smile on her face. He couldn't help but smile at
the beautiful picture of his beloved dreaming, so he lifted her
delicately in his arms, careful not to wake her up, and murmuring, he
finished- I love you...
Endymion walked silently through the gardens and entered the east wing of
the palace heading to the stairway. He went to the second floor and took
a long corridor that finished at a beautiful mahogany door. The prince
opened the door, than belonged to Serena's room, and put her on the bed
softly, then he took of his cloak and cover her with it. The princess
were lying on the bed, curled as a kitten and holding the teddy bear in
her arms. Endymion bent and brushed his lips against hers, then, he
murmured into her ear.
-Sleep well, Serena, and by the way, I love you.
The princess smiled in her sleep and mumbled something in response, so
the prince put a red rose in Serena's vase and left the room silently
heading to his chambers.


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


*"Arien" and "Beren and Luthien" are characters from J.R.R. Tokien's
book, "The Silmarilion". Maybe I'll use some of this mythology in my
story, so if you don't know the book, you can read it, but it's not
necesary, because I'll explain the main things, and if you know the
book, well, you already know "Beren and Luthien"'s story, so...enjoy
the tale and don't blame me, I'm giving all the credit to Tokien.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well, what do you think? Hope you liked this!
There a are a lot of things coming...I promise that "Serena's near future"
will be really interesting, don't worry, and by the way,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO DARIEN! EVERY YEAR YOU GET EVEN MORE HANDSOME!