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, nottheir
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 XIII



The long corridor was deserted when Serena stepped out of the hidden
room being carefully enough so no one would notice where she were.
Everything seemed more normal than when she entered that place for
the first time, but the feeling of amazement and confusion that she
felt when she saw her father's painting were still present inside
her heart. The only thing that made Serena calm was the feeling of
meeting with his prince and feel his strong arms around her once
again. She giggled submerged in her own thought while she opened
the door that connected the aisle to the main corridor, and trying
to look as natural as possible, she started walking back to the
reception's room where the paintings were showed.
Outside the Hall, at a little sitting room placed next to a grand
piano, Endymion sat expectantly just after Setsuna's departure. He
wouldn't accept it, but in some place inside of his heart, a new
joy had lighten with his meeting with his childhood friend, now
transformed in a beautiful grown up lady with a regality and a
grace that only could find is her serious, yet sweet face, something
like the beauty of the deep dark waters. He sighed quietly folding
his arms until the sweetest thing appeared in front of his eyes.
-Endy, I'm back -said Serena waving her hand as he stood up almost
instantly-. Tell me, what are you doing here and not at the expo?
-I guess I missed you -said him sweetly as he stepped closer to her.
-Seriously? -asked the princess laughing.
-Seriously! -answered the prince smiling-. Besides, try to be neutral
when four girls are arguing about a sheet.
-I know what you mean, I've seen that before: Amy and her "conceptual
art" -said Serena grinning.
-You seemed to know them pretty well, huh? -said Endymion- By the way,
Mina was really worried about your bracelet.
-The bracelet! Right! -exclaimed Serena remembering about her jewel
after forgetting everything in the hidden room.
-Didn't you find it? -asked the prince worried.
-No...actually, the Blue Hall was closed so I couldn't search inside
of it, but you yourself said it: it's just a bracelet -said Serena
somehow sad.
-Don't be sad, Sery, you'll find it -said the prince comfortingly.
-I don't think so, but it's okay, really -said her with a sad little
smile.
-Are you sure? -asked him skeptically- Due to the coincidence that,
by chance, I found this...something, that maybe you'll find
interesting...
Endymion searched inside his pocket and took out the little bracelet
as he gave it to the princess. -It's my bracelet! -exclaimed Serena
happily- Where did you find it?
-Somewhere -answered him winking an eye- anyway, it's not important
compared to seeing you so happy again.
-I have my reasons -said Serena giggling, then, after putting on her
bracelet, she hugged the young man and looking at him, she continued-.
Thank you, I can't believe you actually spent this time looking for
my bracelet. You're so sweet!
-You're welcome -answered the prince feeling guilty for not telling
the truth about Setsuna finding the jewel, but trying to look as
calm as possible, he continued-. Let's enter the exposition: there
are some paintings I would like you to explain to me.
-Sure, after all, I know them quite well -said Serena holding
Endymion's arms as the two entered the Hall filled with nobles.

The two lover's tour around the exposition started with a few
paintings of some unknown people, moon embassadors, and unimportant
nobles, but suddendly, a big painting, a body lenght portrait of
a beautifl young woman caught their attention: she had long silver
hair arranged in the traditional selenite hairstyle, and her eyes were
as blue as the sky. Her skin was as white as a moonbeam and in one
of her hands, she held a long scepter with a crescent moon on one of
the edges holding a brillian, crystal clear gem.
-Who's her? She looks a lot like you -said Endymion turning to look
at Serena.
-She's Queen Selene, first and most powerful ruler of the Moon
Kingdom -said Serena proudly- and my great-great-grandmother.
-I see, now I know why you two look alike -said the prince, then
started laughing.
-What's so funny? -asked her curious.
-Oh, nothing, I was remembering Mordreon's expression when you told
him the stateswomen stuff -said Endymion still laughing-. That
totally ought to have a painting here! That face's priceless.
-You still haven't answered the question I told you that day: did I
impress you? -asked Serena giggling.
-You absolutly impresses me -said him smiling at her-. I think that
was the moment when I realized that you wasn't just pretty but smart.
-Stop it! You're making me blush -answered the princess covering her
rosy cheeks.
-But it's the truth! -insisted the the prince stepping closser to
her, then he turned his gaze to the painting again, and finding the
scepter pretty interesting he asked with a tip of curiosity in his
voice- What's the stone on top of the scepter?
-That's the Imperial Silver Crystal -answered Serena looking at the
painting too.
-It's very beatyful: that jewel must cost a fortune -said Endymion
examining the gem.
-It's not just a jewel -said the princess smiling with her gaze
locked in the painting- it's the most powerful weapon in the whole
solar system, maybe in the universe.
As she finished, she covered her mouth with both hands and shoocking
her head, she said:
-Forget what I've just said: it's supposed to be a secret. If
this leaves the palace, I'll be in terrible trouble.
-Don't worry, Sery, I won't tell anyone, I swear it -said the
prince in a comforting tone as he placed his hand on her shoulder-.
The secret is safe with me.

Serena smiled and nodded as the two moved towards the next painting
comenting it ocacionally as they exchanged smiles and gazes.
The morning continue going on, and by noon, the crowd started to get
concentrated in the west side of the room. Looking at the empy spaces
in front of the many pictures, Serena asked:
-Where're the sailor scouts?
-I don't know, the last time I saw them was when you left for your
bracelet, but don't worry, they're all together with the generals,
except for Rei, I think she went after Jadeite -answered Endymion
thoughtfully.
-After Jadeite? Why? -asked the princess confused.
-Well, after Michiru finished playing he went to the stage without
saying anything to us -said the prince as he lead Serena to where
the crowd were going.
-With Michiru? -exclaimed Serena stopping abruptly- Prepare yourself
for a war worse than the Long War.
-What are you saying? -asked Endymion laughing- Don't you think
you're overreacting?
-Overreacting? Rei's gonna KILL him when she finds out! -answered
Serena worriedly- She's even more jealous than you, for impossible
it sounds!
-Hey! I'm not *that* jealous! -said the prince upset-. I just don't
like to see you going out with my generals.
-A walk through the gardens isn't "going out"! -answered Serena as
upset as him as she turned her back to him.
-Serena! Where're doing it again -said Endymion turning her around
delicately.
-Doing what? -asked her seriously.
-Fighting... -sighed the prince- we shouldn't be fighting.
-You're right -said the princess-. I love you too much for losing you
again.
-You never lost me and you'll never loss me -murmured the prince
caressing her cheek-. Now, let's go before Rei can see her boyfriend
with an other girl. She nodded as the couple passed through the crowd
looking for any sight of Jadeite or Rei but there was too many people
in the Hall and it was too big.
-It's nonsense to keep looking -sighed Serena defeated-. We better
go with our parents: the pictures will be uncovered in a few minutes.

He didn't answered anything, just offered the princess his arm as the
two started to walk to the front of the crowd where Queen Serenity
and the Earth's kings where standing, chatting excitedly about the
painting under the white sheets.

-Serena! Where have you been all morning? -asked Serenity looking as
her daughter as she approached the little group.
-I was...looking at the paintings -said Serena lying-. Maybe you just
didn't see me.
-Not me, not anyone -said the queen skeptically-. You've always had
the ability to disappear, since you where a girl.
-Mother...you're embarrassing me -murmured Serena harshly as she
blushed.
-But it's the truth! I never find you when I need you, and this
festival was supposed to be your responsibility -said Serenity.
-I've been busy attending my guests -said the princess.
-By "guests" you mean your friends? Serena! you're not a girl
anymore! -said the queen sarcastically.
-That's it! I won't tolerate it anymore! All this week you haven't
done anything but making me look as a fool! I'm tired of it, mother!
-exclaimed the princess angrily as she left the room with all the
people's eyes over her.
-Serena!! I command you to come back here! -exclaimed Serenity
harshly, but the princess didn't even turn around.
A big silence filled the Hall just broken by the rumor of a few
voices commenting what had happened. The prince turned his gaze to
the door where Serena had ran away, and his heart and mind started
an arguing:
-I must go after Serena and comfort her, but if I do so, everybody
will notice that there's something between us and then the problem
will become even wrose, but she needs me...Gosh! What should I do?
-Son, is anything bothering you? -asked Etlio looking the stress
look on Endymion's face.
-No, I'm fine -said the prince turning to face his father.
-Let her go, you've already done enough for her -said the king
plassing a hand on his son's shoulder.
Endymion nodded and returned his attention to the exposition.
Suddenly, the big crowd splited and Princess Michiru appeared
next to Jadeite as everyone looked at her and applauded. When she
got to the front of the room, she stepped in front of the group of
paintings and clearing her throat, she said as she pulled the
sheets: -Ladies and gentlemen, I have the honor to present for
the first times my latest series of painting which I call "The
Falling of Paradise".
Everyone in the room gasped amazed by the images shown on the
canvas. There were five paintings, four of them surrounding a big
picture surrounded by a golden frame. All of them showed a sad
landscape covered by a stormy atmosphere, and the sad ruins of a
once majestic kingdom, but the main one, was different: the
painting showed a beautiful female angel with long golden hair
dressed in a white gown holding in her arms a injured warrior dressed
in black as she cried diamonds over his dying form.
Endymion remained a long while staring at the big painting like
charmed until a delicate hand landed softly on his shoulder. He
turned around frightened but calmed down as he saw Setsuna's sweet
gaze over him.
-It's you -said the prince softly turning to look at her.
-Yes, who else were you expecting? -asked the princess with a
little smile.
-You know who -answered him sadly. -What's up? You look very sad...
-asked Setsuna.
-Not sad, concerned -said Endymion looking at the painting behind
him.
-About what? Maybe I can help you -said her stepping next to him.
-Maybe... sighed the prince- will you do me a favor?
-Anything -answered the princess.
-Go and talk to Serena, try to comfort her and tell her that I
love her -said Endymion with his gaze locked in the painting.
-Why don't you go by yourself? I'm sure she'd like that better
-said Setsuna.
-I wish I could, but it's not...prudent -said the prince seriously.
-Oh, I see, well, I'll go and talk to her, but, do you have any
idea of where she is? -asked the princess.
-Knowing Serena, she should be by the lake -answered Endymion
thoughtfully.
-Okay, I'll try to convince her to come back -said Setsuna leaving-.
I'll see you latter.

As soon as the princess left, the prince returned his attention
to the painting, and felt chills down his spine as he noticed:
-That angel in the painting looks exactly like Serena, but the man
she's holding...I wonder who's him.
Endymion quickly left the pictures side fearing he would find out
who the man was not liking the idea at all. He somehow *knew* who
he was, but he denied it as he laughed nervously:
-How can those drawings be prophecies! Serena an angel holding a
warrior? How silly! It's like saying that Mordreon will become king!
He stopped and shook his head as he headed to where the generals
were standing. He could see that they were all together except for
Jadeite looking worried and concerned.
-What's wrong, guys? -asked the prince approaching the group.
-Have you seen Jadeite? -asked Nephrite simply.
-Not since he approached with Michiru -said the prince puzzled.
-We are in trouble -added Zoisite worried.
-What happened? -asked Endymion this time.
-Rei saw him...with Michiru, and she's very angry. The girls are
trying to find her before she finds Jadeite -said Malachite trying
to remain calm.
-So Serena was right about Rei being jealous -said the prince more
to himself than to the guys.
-Would you help us find him? -asked Nephrite.
-Hmmm...yeah, I don't have anything to do right now -said Endymion
thoughtfully.
-What about Serena? Where is she? -asked Zoisite.
-I don't know, but I hope she's okay -answered the prince softly-.
Well, I'll search here in the hall and at the east wing, Nephrite,
go to the west wing, Zoisite, you'll go the south wing and Malachite,
you'll go to the north wing.

The guys nodded and parted heading to the door, but Endymion remained
in the room. He took a quick look around the room trying to find his
general, but he knew it was useless. He *knew* Jadeite wasn't inside
the Hall and intentionally had picked going to the east wing of the
palace as an excuse for visiting Serena's chambers. He took a last
look at the room before leaving it, and making himself a path
between the people, he exited the hall going towards the stairs
heading to the second floor of the palace. The place seemed almost
deserted ever since everyone were too busy working or looking at
the paintings, so he calmly walked knowing that no own would notice
where he was going. The path seemed to be longer than normally,
maybe because the Hall was located on the west wing of the palace,
but it was also because of the atmosphere surrounding the palace.
Thought everything were in place and apparently normal, a tip of
sadness and distress turned the palace into an, almost creepy,
place. The prince finally arrived the familiar corridor on the east
wing, and the big mahogany door decorated gracefully. He opened the
door and entered the big, empty room. Before going to Serena's
bedroom, he sat looked at a little painting placed on the coffee
table. It was of Serena's friends, but she wasn't there, and next
to that one, there was an other one of Queen Serenity with her
typical serious and melancholic look. He sighed and lifting the
picture of Serenity with both hands, he said to himself:
-I wonder why Serena and her mother can't get along fine as other
mothers and daughters do. I think that after having to pass through
Hyperion's death, they'd become closer.

He put the frame back on the table as he headed to the door leading to
Serena's bedroom. The door was wide open the same as the windows. He
entered the place and walked towards the vanity attracted to the
jewelry box lying on it. He examined and opened it carefully as the
sweet melody of the "clair de lune" filled the spacious room. He
remained quiet listening to the music knowing that it belonged to
Earth, and inside the box, he saw the key Serena showed him that
certain day on his palace's gardens. The brilliance of the gem hanging
on it was very particular; it not only shined with all the colors
of the rainbow, but somehow, it irradiated peace and power.
-I wonder what kind of stone is this one -asked the prince to
himself-. It's not a diamond or a zircon...
He put left the key in it's place, and left the vanity walking
towards Serena's stuffed bed covered by cushions and pillows, and
covered by a canopy that let long white and pink organza curtains
fall. In the middle of the cushions and sitting as a king on his
throne, Endy-chan lied with the star locket around his neck. The
prince smiled and took the bear in his arms as he said teasingly:
-Hey you! What do you think you're doing sleeping with my *girlfriend?
Then, Endymion appeared a dozen of fresh red roses from Earth and
left them on Serena's bed with a pink ribbon keeping them together.
Finally, he opened the french doors and went out to the balcony
overlooking the gardens. He leaned on the railing and breathed the
fresh air as he said:
-My sweet Serena, how I wish I there would be anything I could do to
help you...
Then, he looked up at the sky, and firmly, he said aloud:
-What am I saying! There is *something* I can do!
He started walking, swelling with pride as the headed to the chamber's
door, and then he fallowed the long corridor back to the Hall where
the exposition was taking place.



***


Princess Setsuna used the garden door to leave the Hall as she took
her path to the lake. The courtyard was quiet and lonely, and even
the sun seemed to be calm. She walked silently looking at the flowers,
and when she arrived the lakeshore, she saw the silhouette of Serena
sitting under a tree facing the water. Setsuna smiled and started
walking towards the tree, then set next to Serena as she placed a hand
on her shoulder.
-Don't be sad, my princess, there are very things to be happy for
-said Princess Pluto sweetly.
-Like what? -asked Serena coldly
-Well, like having Endymion as your boyfriend -said Setsuna smiling.
-Who understands you, Setsuna? Yesterday, you told me I rather not
been involved him and to keep my distance, and now you´re telling me
to be happy about being his girlfriend, what reminds me, how did you
know he´s my boyfriend? -asked Serena confused.
-I know more than you think, but don't worry, no one knows -said the
elder girl- and about what I said yesterday, well, I think I had
forgot what what a wonderful person Endymion is. Just forget what I
said.
-Maybe you're right about him, but still... -said Serena as she
started to sob- I miss my mommy and my daddy!
-My little princess -sigh Setsuna holding the other girl- your mother
loves you, is just that she's stressed, that's why she's been acting
coldly. -I don't think it's that -said Serena sadly-, she hates me.
That's the truth.
-Serena, don't say such a thing -said Pluto-. I remember when you
were born: you're parents were delighted, and I'd never seen your
mother so happy. Believe, she doesn't hate you.
-By the way, did she sent you to talk to me? -asked Serena
skeptically.
-No, it was Endymion -answered Setsuna.
-Really? -asked Serena blushing.
-Yeah, he was very concerned about you -said the elder lady- and by
the way, he said that he'd like to come by himself, and that he loves
you.
-And I love him too -sighed Serena-. He's so sweet and kind that
sometimes I feel that I don't deserve someone like him.
-You deserve the best and even more -said Setsuna- and Endymion's
the best, believe me; I know him from a long time ago, and I must say
you're lucky.
-I wonder if he thinks the same way about me -said the young princess.
-He does -said Setsuna smiling-. Knowing him, he could spend the rest
of his life saying how much he loves you.
-Talking of whom, where is him? -asked Serena.
-The last time I saw him, he was at the Hall watching the exposition
-answered the elder princess thoughtfully.
-I think I'll go after him: I don't want him to be worried -said
Serena standing-. Thank you Setsuna! You're a great friend!

The Moon Princess left the lakeside heading to the Hall feeling much
better than before. Now, she was smiling with the thought of hugging
Endymion, but when she arrived the hall, she only found out that he
wasn't there. She walked around the room trying to find him, but
instead, she found a really upset Rei. Serena stopped in from of
Princess Mars and grabbed her arm softly as she asked concerned:
-What's wrong, Rei?
-Jadeite...Jadeite's cheating on me! -exclaimed Rei angrily.
-Come on, Rei, let's go outside and talk about it. Getting mad wont
make things any better -said the moon princess leading Rei out of
the big hall and into the sitting room.
Rei sat on a big couch, and Serena sat next to her as the martian
princess started sobbing.
-Calm down, Rei -said Serena comfortingly.
-I just can help it -mumbled Rei-. All he said, all he did, were
just lies...just a big bunch of them.
-You can't be so negative -said the moon princess-. The fact you saw
him with an other girl doesn't mean he doesn't love you anymore. I'm
sure he was helping Michiru with something, I don't know, maybe she
asked him to escort her into the room.
-Is this the same Serena that used to say that all men were jerks?
-asked Rei rising an eyebrow.
-They are jerks sometimes, but they can be sweet too -said Serena
blushing a little.
-I can't believe that one guy could change your mind so easily -said
mars disappointed.
-Endymion is different from the other men I've met, and I'm sure his
generals are different too -said Serena a bit upset.
-Serena, you're so sweet, so innocent, but you need to face the truth:
all men are the same, they "love" you until the find an other pretty
face, or in my case, an other pretty voice -sighed Rei sadly.
Serena remained silent as an image crossed her mind:
"I know Endymion from a long time ago"
Setsuna's sweet smile and rosy cheeks as she said those words seemed
to play an alarm in Serena's head: Princess Pluto used to be very
serious and solemn, but when she mentioned Endymion's name, she
totally changed.
Serena shook her head and returned to the real world as he tried to
find the right words to tell Rei. Faking the most believable smile she
could, Serena breathed deeply and said:
-Come on, don't you think you're overreacting? Jadeite's not cheating
on you and I'll probe it!
-I can't believe I actually let him convince me to sing in tomorrow's
opera -sighed Rei nervously-. I know I will froze in the middle of
the scenery and I'll lose my voice.
-Don't say such a silliness: you'll do it great, you just need to
practice. By the way, what are you playing? -asked Serena curious.
-Lakme*, a earthling opera -answered the martian princess- your
mother suggested that ever since the Earth's royalty were our honor
guests, we should sing something from there, but I still don't know
who's playing the character of Lakme.
-But the presentation is tomorrow! -exclaimed Serena.
-Yeah, I know, but everyone's been very busy so we haven't had the
oportunity to rehears together, but this afternoon I'll be doing my
scene so at last I'll find who's the main character -answered Rei
softly.
-By the way, what's character? -asked the moon princess this time.
-I don't think I wanna tell you -said the martian princess.
-Come on! Tell me! Who are you going to be? -asked Serena again.
-Mallika, Lakme's slave -mumbled Rei ashamed.
-Remember what they say, there're no small parts, just small actors
-said Serena trying to hide her laughter.
-Hey! That's exactly why I didn't want to tell you: now you're
laughing at me -exclaimed Rei angrily.
-I'm not laughing at you -said Serena calming herself down.
-Then, why are you laughing? -asked Rei skeptical.
-I just remembered something -said Serena smiling suspiciously.
-Oh, really? -said the martian princess rising an eyebrow- What?
-Okay, I surrender, I was laughing because I can't imagine you as a
slave -said Serena blushing a little.
-Me neither, but, well, that was the only part left, and they said I
would do it great -sighed Rei.
-At least you'll share a scene with the main character. That make you
important, right? -said Serena trying to comfort the other lady.
-Yeah, you're right -said the princess mars smiling sadly.
-By the way, Rei, have you seen Endymion? -asked the moon princess
curiously.-No, the last time I saw him was when we were looking at
the painting with the generals -answered Rei thoughtfully.
-It's okay, let's go for lunch. I'm sure I'll meet him there -said
Serena standing as Rei did the same.
The two princesses left the sitting room heading to the Blue Hall
expecting to find the rest of the group there. The exposition was
over, and now the guest were moving towards the big dinning room
still talking about the painting. The hall was almost full, but
there was no sight of Queen Serenity. Serena didn't care too much
about this, and somehow felt comfortable for not having to see her
mother after what she had done to her that morning. She sat at the
empty main table being followed by Rei, and latter, by King Etlio
and Queen Calice. Both saluted her politely and sat leaving the empty
space for his also missing son.
-Serena, have you seen Endymion? -asked the king turning to look at
the young lady.
-I was about to ask the same question -answered Serena with a little
smile-. I haven't seen him in a long while.
-He suddenly disappeared from the exposition, so we supposed he would
be with you -murmured the king winking an eye.
-What made you think that -asked Serena laughing nervously.
-Oh, nothing, it's just that he was a bit concerned about what
happened at the Hall -said the man calmly.
-Etlio! -exclaimed Calice kicking him under the table.
-What? We can't pretend we didn't see anything! -said the king turning
to face his wife.
-But, can't you see that it's hurting her feeling -answered the queen
murmuring.
-It's okay, he's not hurting me at all -lied Serena faking a smile-
but I think I'll feel more comfortable if we change the subject.
After that, the table became silent, and Serena began to talk to Rei
as the royal couple did the same ignoring the other's presence.



***



Endymion entered the now almost empty Hall and found Serenity's tall
silhouette in front of Selene's painting looking at it solemnly. He
stood at the door for a second and breathed deeply before walking to
where she was standing. At first, the Queen didn't seemed to notice
his presence, but then, she said not turning to look around:
-What do you need, Endymion?
The prince gasped and amazed asked:
-How did you know it was me?
-I saw your reflection on the painting's glass, and I also saw your
shadow -said Serenity turning around- but you still haven't answered
my question.
-I was wondering if we could talk for a second -said the prince
firmly.
-About what? -asked the queen calmly.
-Serena -answered the prince simply.
Queen Serenity sighed and after being quiet for a while, she rose her
gaze at him and said:
-Follow me.
The queen started walking out of the Hall as the prince followed her
closely. They walked around the palace for a long while, until the
queen got to a locked room. She took a key in her hands and opened the
door showing an astonish private library which walls were totally
covered by books, except for a space between two bookshelves were a
big painting was placed. It showed Queen Serenity and a young man
looking happy and powerful. The prince entered the room and heading
to that wall, he asked examining the image:
-Who's that man next to you?
-The only man I've been able to love in my life -sighed the queen
sadly- and the best husband and father any woman can ask for.
-So, he's King Hyperion -added Endymion still looking at the
painting-. He certainly looks a lot like Serena.
-Looked -corrected the queen seriously- now he's dead, and the only
thing I can ask for is that someday Serena'll find a man like him that
can make her as happy as she deserves.
-I'm sure she will -said the prince smiling to himself.
-Anyway, what was that you wanted to discuss about her? -asked the
queen directly.
-Well, to be honest, I was concerned about the way you've been
treating Serena -said Endymion softly but firmly.
-What do you mean exactly by "the way I've been treating her"? -asked
Serenity rising an eyebrow.
-You know, calling her irresponsible, acting coldly with her and
hiding the truth about her father -said him sitting on a couch.
-First of all, I didn't call her irresponsible, I just said she wasn't
a girl anymore, second of all, she started avoiding me, and third of
all, the memories of Hyperion are too painful for me, as I know they'd
be for Serena -said the queen turning her back against the prince.
-Maybe it can be painful, but she's *his* daughter, and she deserves
to know! -said the young man a bit louder than before.
-Understand it, Endymion, she's too young for understanding -said the
queen softly.
-Now you're contradicting yourself: a while ago you said she wasn't a
girl anymore -said the prince.
-Maybe she's not a girl, but she's not ready yet. She still acts as if
the world were a big playground just to have fun, and not the war
field it really is -said the queen coldly.
-How can you talk about her like that? She cares about this kingdom
more than you think, and the only thing she thinks about is the fact
she'll become queen someday and what she's going to do then -said
Endymion a bit upset.
-She's young, everything seems so different! Power is an idealistic
thing, and being a queen just means being adored and admired by
everyone -said Serenity walking back and forward.
-I don't think that's the idea Serena has about being a queen, and
I'm sure that if you'd talked to her more often, you would have
known -said the prince coldly.
-Are you questioning me? -asked the queen harshly.
-No, I'm just saying that you should pay a little more attention to
your daughter -answered Endymion firmly.
-Listen to me, I wont argue with you -said Serenity turning to face
him- I will tell just one thing: if Serena were interested in talking
to me, she wouldn't sent one of her friends to talk to me about her
father.
-She didn't send me! -exclaimed the prince.
-Endymion, I'm the first one defending the peace between our two
kingdoms, so if you know what's good for you and the Earth, stay
away from anything concerning Serena and me, okay? -said the queen
sweetly but sarcastically.
-I will, but not because you told me -said Endymion angrily as he
left the office shooting the door behind him.
As soon as the prince left, the queen sighed heavely, and looking
at the big painting hanging on the wall, she said to herself:
-I'm sorry Serena, but I'm doing this for your own good.



***



Endymion left the library feeling angry and insulted, then he started
walking towards the dinning room trying to calm himself down. He felt
defeated for not getting to help Serena to know the truth about her
father, so in a silent and cold mood, he entered the Blue Hall heading
to the main table were his beloved were sitting already.
As soon as Serena saw him, a sweet smile were painted on her face
and looking at him lovingly, she said:
-Endymion, at last you came. I've been waiting for you for a long
while.
-Hi Serena -said the prince simply and took his seat next to her.
-What's wrong, Endy? You look worried -said the princess concerned.
-I'm fine, don't worry -said Endymion caressing her cheek.
-I don't believe you -said Serena getting Endymion hands away from
her cheek and talking it in hers.
-Okay, I got bad news from home, that's all -said him sighing.
-What bad news? -asked her this time.
-Hmmm...something concerning a treaty...hmmm...yeah...a meeting for
signing a treaty were canceled -said the prince thoughtfully trying
to invent a good excuse.
-If you say so -sighed the princess.
-Please, don't think too much about my kingdom's problems, after all,
that's my job -said Endymion smiling at her. Serena nodded trying to
look conformed, and then, the sailor scouts and three of the generals
entered the Hall. They sat at the table too and a second latter,
after the arrival of some other guests, entered Princess Michiru next
to Jadeite. First, the princess took her seat at one of the other
tables surrounding the main one as the general took his way there.
Serena smiled and looking at Rei, she said:
-See, I told you he was just escorting her.
As the man got to the table, the girls became silent, but instead of
talking to Rei, Jadeite looked at Endymion and said:
-Hmmm, I just came here to say that I'm sitting at the other table,
and by the way, I'll be busy this afternoon so don't try to find me.
Then he left and sat next to Michiru at the other table. Distress
were painted on Rei's cold and serious face as she glanced at the
table. Serena's look were also placed on that table, but not staring
at Michiru but at Setsuna. She didn't knew or at least didn't want
to know if Endymion was looking the same as her, but as she turned
to face him, she clearly saw his gaze lost deep inside the porcelain
plate. She sighed silently as her mother entered the room and took
her seat at the main table just next to her. Serena doesn't even
bothered to turn to look at her, she just ignore her presence and
started eating as soon as the servants served her. Now, the distance
between the queen and her daughter seemed almost normal. As if they
were estrangers. Lunch went on silently at the main table, and after
finishing the desert, Serena turned her look at her beloved and
softly, she asked without being noticed:
-Would you like to join me for a walk? I know a beautiful place
outside, at the gardens.
Endymion just nodded and stood up as the couple left the room the
same as some other guest that hid their departure making them look
just as a pair of normal people.
Once outside, Serena took the prince's hand possessively in her as
he looked down at her sweetly, yet concerned.
-Don't worry, I'm not going anywhere -said him as he released her
hand and wrapped and arm around her waist.
-Maybe not your body, but your mind's already flying around the
universe -said the princess softly.
-Sorry, I can't help it -said Endymion- now, where is this place
you wanted to show me?-Right this way -said Serena as she walked
towards the gate and into the gardens.
It wasn't exactly the perfect day to be out, but at least, it wasn't
raining. The sky was cloudy and the sunrays made themselves a path
between them making it look weird and magical. Deep inside the great
gardens, there was a small but pretty forest, and inside of it,
everything were forgotten except for the wild nature in it. Serena
lifted a little bit her long skirt as she entered the woods, and
after getting to a clearing in the middle of it, she took a seat
under a tree near a marvel waterfall. The prince followed her and
sat under the fresh tree's shadow looking at the surrounding.
-Nice place! -said him leaning against the trunk- You certainly like
trees.
-I do like trees, but the reason I come here is to hear the birds
-said the princess closing her eyes- I love the way the use to express
themselves, so pure and sincerely. They never lie, they just stand
on a branch and sing whatever is inside of them, being as transparent
as those waterfalls.
-Yeah, birds are cute -said the prince closing his eyes as well.
-You didn't understand me, did you? -said Serena seriously turning to
face him.
-Sure, you said you like birds -said the prince confused.
-Endymion, I want you to be one of them... -said her softly.
-Excuse me? -asked him puzzled.
-Oh, forget it -said Serena defeated-. What I'm trying to say is that
I want you to tell me what's bothering you.
-I told you, problems at home -answered the prince.
-I mean what's *really* bothering you -added Serena-. Do you really
thought I would believe and excuse like that one?
-What do you want me to say? Yeah, that's not the reason, but yet I
can't tell you what's bothering me -said Endymion sighing.
-Why? I thought ours would be a sincere relationship -exclaimed Serena
a bit upset.
-I'm being sincere with you! I can't and I wont tell you! -answered
him forcefully.
-Go ahead! Shout to me! That's the best solution always... -said
Serena as her eyes became misty- I just asked because I was
concerned about you.
-Serena...don't start with that -sighed Endymion holding her by her
hands-. Understand me, just for this time, and don't ask me anymore.
-But you're scaring me!  Seeing you like that is breaking my heart
-said Serena releasing his hands-. If at least you knew how to hide
that you're worried...
-Excuse me? -asked Endymion looking offended- What did that suppose
to mean?
-That you're the worst liar I've known -answered Serena in an arrogant
way.
-If you didn't notice, I did that so you wont get hurt -said the
prince trying to hide his angriness with kindness.
-Now you're the victim! -exclaimed Serena standing- What am I supposed
to do? Hug you and show you my gratitude for hiding the truth from me?
-Talking to me with respect would be a good start -said Endymion
becoming really upset.
-Oh, sorry, you're highness, I forgot I ought you a special kind of
respect for being your girlfriend and caring for you -said the princess
sarcastically as she bowed deeply.
-Serena, don't be silly! -said the prince seriously.
-I also apologize for being silly -said Serena bowing again.
-For God's sake, stop it! I don't care how much you beg or how much
you bother me, I wont tell you anything -said Endymion starting to
get despaired.-You know what? I really don't want to know! It's obvious
that if your hiding it it's because it's something bad about me, which
is almost as disappointing as the fact of you lying to me -said her
looking into the prince's eyes.
-Go ahead, use the inverse psychology, it wont work -said him remaining
under the tree.
-I never said it would work or not, I just don't care anymore -said
Serena calmly.
-About what's bothering me? -asked Endymion.
-No, about you -said Serena as she started to walk quickly toward the
palace.

Endymion closed his eyes and leaned against the trunk not caring about
where Serena was going, or what could happen to her. Now his pride had
taken control over his heart, and in all his arrogant self, the prince
stood taking the opposite way expecting to be alone and not having to
see her at least for a good while.


Serena left the gardens looking calm and serene, but it didn't last
long. As soon as she were far enough from the prince, her eyes became
misty as they filled with bitter tears that started to fall down her
white cheeks. The princess stopped near the gazebo and took out her
handkerchief as she cleaned her face. She sat on a bench and looked up
to see that a group of courtesans were staring at her laughing and
murmuring behind their feather fans. She stood up and swelling with
pride, she started walking toward them as the ladies stopped talking
closing their fans. She looked at them hardly and with a commanding
tone, she said:
-What's the problem with you? Is there anything funny about me?
-For being the princess, you're not very polite -said the first girl
with a sarcastic smile.
-I think you missed the word "highness" -said Serena seriously.
-Oh, forgive us, it's not our fault that you're so miserable,
*highness* -said the second courtesan bowing.
-Miserable? What do you mean? -exclaimed the princess feeling
insulted.
-Well, your mother doesn't love you, you're not good with politics,
and by the way things are going, you'll die single -said the third
girl cruelly as the other two laughed furtively.
-How dare you to talk to me like that! I'm the Moon Princess and
the heir to this Kingdom! -shouted Serena filled with anger.
-Well, *highness*, if you're a princess, act like one, otherwise,
no one will ever get to love you -said the first girl in a sweet,
yet sarcastic tone.

The princess didn't say anything with the last commentary, she just
remained static for a second, and then started running toward the
palace as the tears filled her eyes once again. She entered the main
gate to the east wing and quickly started climbing the stairs
holding her skirt with both hands. Once she was up, she took the path
to her chambers and opened the mahogany doors widely, as she entered
the room. She locked the entry and leaned against the door as she
sobbed silently covering her face with her hands. Still leaning
against the door, she let herself into a sitting position as she
hugged her knees and rested her head on them.
-The courtesans are right -said the princess to herself- nobody
loves me, and no one will ever get to love me. I'm sure the world
would be a better place if I were never born.
She stood up and not thinking about anything, she took her magic
key, and lifting it with her right hand, she exclaimed:
-Nobody loves me and nobody will care if I'm not around anymore!
Crystal Key, take me as far as you can, where no one will ever know
how or where I am!
As she exclaimed this words a ray of pink light fell violently from
the sky surrounding her with its powers, and lifting her in the air
as a cloud of brilliant stars shaded leaving nothing but emptiness
inside the room. Princess Serena was gone, and no one, not even her,
knew where.



***



It had passed a long while since Serena left the garden and Endymion
still remained impassive under the tall tree looking at the water
falls in the middle of the clearing. His expression was totally
unreadable and his eyes cold as the water in the fountain, yet his
mind was full of thought spinning inside his head, making him feel a
bunch of feelings between anger and deception. He knew something was
wrong, he had felt it: the sky seemed darker than before an a cold
breeze blew moving the leaves as they made tourbillions. Birds had
stopped singing abruptly as if they knew the danger was close, but
this fact didn't seem to bother Endymion, or at least, he didn't show
one emotion. While he felt self-pity for his conversation with
Serenity, the prince didn't noticed that a lonely silhouette stared
at him just a few meters behind him. As the sun started to fall, a
shadow projected next to the prince calling his attention as he
turned around finding a serious face and a pair of concerned eyes
gazing at him.
-For how long have you been standing there -asked him coldly returning
his gaze to the water.
-Nearly half an hour -answered the person standing behind.
-Then why didn't you say anything? -said the prince this time.
-I didn't wanted to bother you while you were so deep in your
thoughts -said the person stepping closer.
-As if anybody cared about what I think -murmured the prince closing
his eyes-. I'm just a world-class loser.
-Don't say that, Endymion, you're not a loser, you have everything
any man could ask for: you have a fortune, power, a family, and a
lovely girlfriend... -said the visitor sitting under the tree next
to him.
-Well, I've lost at least one of those things -said him sighing
heavily.
-I don't think it's your power, your family or your fortune -said
the person-. What happened with Serena?
-We had a fight and she ran way of the clearing, as if I care
-answered Endymion-. She's such a baby, I wonder how I ever fell
in love with her.
-So, what was that fight about? -asked the visitor.
-I don't feel like talking about that right now -said the prince.
-I see, your ego is hurt -said the person smiling.
-Explain yourself, Setsuna -exclaimed the prince turning to look
at the princess.
-You know you're the one who acted wrong, you just don't wanna
accept it -said Setsuna.
-Your weren't even here when we had the fight, so don't tell me
I'm the one who's wrong -said Endymion angrily-. She's such a child!
Her mother was right when she said that Serena isn't ready to take
the responsibility for the kingdom and I doubt she ever will.
-Wait a second: did you talk to the queen about...about *that*?
-exclaimed Setsuna amazed-. You must be crazy!
-I thought I was doing the right thing and that Serena had a right
to know about her father, so I asked the Queen -answered the prince
seriously-. She told me that Serena's still too young for knowing
the truth about her father, and that she wasn't ready to rule the
kingdom, but the worst part was that she told me to stay away from
her business.
-Yes, but did you have to speak to Serenity? There are many people
in this palace who got to know the king, but you had to ask *her*?!
-asked the princess puzzled and a bit upset- You really must be mad
about her for doing such a stupid thing! By the way, did you tell
Serena about that?
-Of course I didn't tell her! Do you think I'm stupid or something?
-exclaimed the prince in a defensive way- How do you think I was
going to tell Serena that her mother doesn't think she is ready to
take over the kingdom? That was the fight all about: I didn't want
to tell her the truth.
Endymion became silent and sighed heavily calming himself as he
started talking again:
-Maybe I should asked you, after all, you knew her father, didn't
you?
-Yes, I knew Hyperion. He was a great father and an incredible ruler.
I can cry when I remember that day... -said Setsuna seriously-
Maybe Serenity's right: Serena isn't ready to know.
-But, why isn't she ready? He was her father! She deserves to know
what happened that day! -exclaimed the prince.
-No, it will destroy all of us if she ever found out, including you
and your family -answered the princess solemnly.
-I just don't get it! -said him confused- She will found out, in one
or another way, besides, is just his father death at a battlefield,
not a curse!
Setsuna froze when she heard the last word and got as pale as a ghost
as she looked at him with her burgundy eyes wide opened.
-What? Is it a curse? How can that be? I mean, it was the end of the
Long War! How can one man's death be a curse? -asked Endymion confused.

-It's not a curse! What makes you think that? -said Setsuna laughing
nervously.
-The why did you freak out when I mentioned it? -asked the prince
skeptically.
-I didn't freak out, I was just thinking of where Serena could be
-answered the lady inventing her best excuse.
-I don't know, I don't care. I think  she's old enough to take care
of herself -answered him coldly.
-But she could be in terrible trouble! I can feel that something is
not right -said Setsuna concerned.
-What could possibly happen to her? She has plenty of guards to take
care of her inside the palace's walls -said the prince not caring
much, but then, there was a big silence between both of them as they
seem to realize what the young man had just said. After a while,
Setsuna shook her head and said:
-I don't believe you, you are acting like a child. You talk to the
queen about thing that aren't any of your business and then you blame
Serena. Did she ask you to talk to her mother?
-No...she didn't ask me but...
-No buts! You should be ashamed of yourself for acting like that!
She can be anywhere by now! You don't know how much you mean to her!
-exclaimed the princess really worried.
-If I mean so much to her, why can't she just respect my intimacy?
-asked the prince coldly.
-Because she loves you! And a part of loving you is wanting to become
part of that intimacy! -said Setsuna upset.
-Then why wouldn't she just understand that I didn't want to tell her
why I was upset? I didn't want to hurt her feelings, but no, she had
to make a big deal out of it -said the prince becoming despaired.
-I told Serena that she should leave you alone -sighed Setsuna- but
when I saw how much she loved you and that you loved her back, I told
her to fight for that love you have, but now, I can see that I was
right the first time, Your are still too selfish to love anyone.
-So now you'll start with the same thing...you're calling me selfish
when the only thing I did was trying to help? Okay then! I'm an
idiot and talking to Serenity was as stupid and hiding it from Serena!
Are you happy now? -exclaimed Endymion angrily.
-Are you saying this to me...or to you? Cause if you believe those
words, yes, I am happy -said Setsuna seriously folding her arms-.
Serena loves you, and you have hurt her badly. Go and find her, she
needs you now more than ever, The time will come soon enough for her
to know the truth about what happened that day her father was killed.
-Okay, I'll go and talk to her, I just have one problem: where is
she? -asked Endymion.
-You won't know if you don't go and find her -said Setsuna with a
smile.



***


Rei remained silent as she saw Serena and Endymion leaving the Blue
Hall and the generals and scouts talking happily. Her gaze was locked
on Jadeite, and the smile he wore every time Michiru opened her mouth
to say something. After a long while, she stroked the napkin throwing
it on the plate as she stood up angrily. Mina noticed Rei's mood and
trying to be nice, she said sweetly:
-Why don't you stay and join the chat, Rei?
-I can't -answered Rei- I must go to the opera rehearsal.
-Maybe I can join you. I don't have anything to do, besides, I would
love to hear you singing -said Mina standing up.
-Well, okay, a little company won't hurt me -said Rei standing as
well as the two left the Blue Hall.

Inside the great palace's walls, but lost in gardens of roses, there
was the Royal Opera House, a wonderful marble building with a big
fountain in front of it. The main door was closed, and a big poster
was placed on a bulleting board next to door, which was decorated
with water lilies and said: "Lakme". Rei read it quickly and then
started surrounding the building until she found a little door. It
had a little paper pasted on the door which said "actors only". She
opened the door and entered the theater. Mina followed her inside
and the two princesses started walking towards the stage. There, a
tall, handsome man where saying things out loud as a pair of people
moved the scenography based on a fountain, some stairs, and a garden
landscape. As the girl stepped behind him, the man turned around and
with a big smile he exclaimed:
-Lady Rei! At last you're here! You better start practicing because
Lakme will arrive in any second.
-Yes, Lord Amadeus -said Rei blushing as she walked toward a table
placed on one side of the stage.
-Who's him? -asked Mina flushing and with a little mean smile.
-That guy over there? He's Lord Amadeus, the director -answered Rei
looking at him smiling as well.
-He's really hot! -exclaimed princess Venus.
As the two ladies chatted, a boy entered running the theater and went
to where Amadeus were standing and said something to him quickly
before leaving again. The man smiled brightly and started walking
toward the princess as the two turned into a deeper crimson. Lord
Amadeus had a pair a emerald eyes, and long, straight hazel hair,
and everything he said sounded as poetry. All the ladies around the
solar system where mad about the young, mysterious director, but
weirdly, and thought he had a very cheerful and sweet attitude, he
never paid attention to one girl in particular.
Amadeus stood next to Rei as she fixed her hair in a ponytail, and
still smiling he said.
-At last she's here! Our Lakme has just arrived to the theater!
As he said this, Michiru entered through the back door and stepping
behind them asked?
-What's going on?
-Lakme is about to arrive -said Mina-. By the way, did you see her
when you were coming here?
Michiru didn't answer, just started laughing gracefully as Mina asked
a bit upset:
-What's so funny? Tell me, at least do you know who's playing Lakme?
-I sure do -answered Michiru calming herself down-. *I am* Lakme.
-You?! -exclaimed Rei pointing at her amazed.
-Yes, didn't Amadeus tell you? -said Michiru with a little smile.
-No, he didn't -said answered Rei coldly.
-Well, Ladies, no more chat for now -interrupted the young man-.
We must start now.

Michiru and Amadeus left the table and went to the stage as Rei said
angrily:
-I won't sing if she's singing!
-But Rei! It's your opportunity for becoming a professional singer
-said Mina worried-. You can't let a little argue interfere with
your career!
-Little argue? She stole my boyfriend! -exclaimed Rei- From all
ladies in this universe I had to be *her* slave. I'm sorry, I won't
do it.
-Well, if you don't want to do it for yourself, do it for Jadeite
-said Mina softly- I'm sure that if he watches you acting in that
opera he will definitely fall in love with you again, 'cause as I
know, he like artists, doesn't he?
-Okay, I will sing, but just because I love that idiot -sighed Rei
defeated.
-Good for you! Now, go and show them your talent -said princess Venus
walking towards the seats on the first row.
On the other hand, Rei went to the stage and took her place next to
Michiru as the orchestra started playing.
Michiru started singing with her beautiful voice as the small audience
looked at her charmed. Suddenly, the backdoor went opened once again,
and Jadeite entered the hall as he went to sit next to Mina. The
orchestra stopped playing as Amadeus said:
-Ladies, let's take a short break while I get my script.
The two women nodded and Rei went for a glass of water calling Mina
with her hand. The blond princess stood and started walking towards
the stage as Rei drank a zip of water.
-I never thought she could be *this* good -sighed Rei worriedly-. I
wish I could have more time to memorize my part.
-Don't worry, you will do it fine -said Mina turning around to go
back to her seat, but when she did so, an unexpected scene appeared
in front of her eyes: Jadeite had Michiru in his arms and was looking
at her lovingly as he kissed her cheek. Mina gasped horrified calling
Rei's attention, who turned around quickly seeing the same thing.
Princess Mars froze as her eyes flashed with anger. The blond guy
smiled at the main character and took his seat as she blew him a kiss
from the stage. Worried, Mina put a hand on Rei's shoulder trying to
cheer her up making up a believable excuse, but the princess with
black hair just faked a smile and said:
-I'll be fine, now go and have a seat.
Mina did what Rei told her to, and princess mars started walking
toward the stage as the orchestra started playing once again.

-Wrong, wrong, wrong! -exclaimed Amadeus standing from his chair-
What's happening, Rei? This is the fourth time we repeat this scene!
-I'm sorry -said Rei lowering her head after forgetting the dialog
again.
-Don't be sorry, just try to concentrate -said the director seriously-.
You should be more like Lady Michiru. She know her part perfectly, and
has a beautiful a voice.
-I can concentrate, but I don't think I can do anything about my
voice -murmured Rei to herself angrily-. I will take revenge!
Once again the music filled the hall and the scene went on as Rei
watched Michiru walking around the stage, looking at the flowers and
being her always charming self. This fact freaked out princess mars,
but she wouldn't allow Michiru to get all the attention. She closed
her eyes in a quiet pondering, and then she started singing in
response to Michiru's dialog. Finally, the scene had reached the end,
and very proud, Amadeus stood and said with his warm smile:
-Excellent! Great job, Michiru. Now, the departure. Rei, you will
stand next to the boat over there and help Lakme into it, then, you
will step in the boat and you will start rowing out of the stage.
The two ladies nodded, and as the director said, Rei took her place
next to the water as Michiru took her hand and walked into the little
Hindu boat. Rei didn't notice it, but the inner part of the boat was
wet, and when she put her foot on it, she stumbled falling into the
water as the orchestra exploded in laughter. Even Michiru giggled
looking Rei all wet, and making the water boil with her anger. Amadeus
ran into the stage and helped the young singer to her feet as he said:
-Next time be more careful. We don't want the opera to be a failure,
and by the way Michiru, you must be careful too, this time it was Rei,
but tomorrow, it can be you.
Rei smiled wickedly as she heard the young man's words. The plan was
perfect! If she couldn't get the attention away from Michiru, at
least she would give the audience a good reason for looking at her.
As Rei tried to fix her now wet hair and her dirty dress, Jadeite
stood behind her and clearing his throat, he said handling Rei a
towel:
-Take this, Rei, you will get sick.
The young princess turned to face the general, and with a look and
anger and a cold voice, she answered:
-And you still dare to talk to me? Go away! I don't want anything
from you.
Then, she turned her back against him and started walking towards
Mina as the two left the theater not saying anything or looking back
at the musicians or the audience.
-What's wrong with her? -thought Jadeite angrily staring at Rei-. I
just wanted to help her!



***


Mina and Rei left the old building heading to the palace, and while
crossing the gardens, the blond princess noticed that Rei's eyes
became watery and red. Mars didn't cover her face as a pair of tears
left her eyes, instead, she remained straight and proud as she gave
long and quite steps avoiding the ladies that looked at her wet self.
-Maybe you should go and take a bath -said Mina softly looking at her
friend.
Rei didn't answer, just kept walking as princess Venus said.
-You can't let that silly guy affect you. You're much better without
him.
The princess with the raven hair turned around and now with tears of
pure anger falling from her dark grape eyes, then breathed deeply, and
said trying not to sob:
-What do you know about being dumped?! You have a boyfriend and he
loves you! You can't understand how I'm feeling!
Then, she started sobbing as Mina hugged her while she said:
-You're right, you're right, I don't know how you're feeling. I'm
sorry, I just want to make you feel better.
Rei nodded and then, the two entered the big palace building heading
to the west wing where Rei's bedroom was placed.
The big old palace was now busy of full as life, and the guest walked
from one side to an other laughing and talking, almost forgetting the
hard situation between the Queen and the Princess. Mina made sure that
Jadeite or an other one of the general were at the corridor where
Rei's chambers were located, and then, the two girls entered the room
as the martian girl collapsed on her bed sobbing and hugging her
pillow tightly.
-Why Michiru? -asked Rei between sobs- Why not a courtesan? Why not
any other girl in the palace? Why one of my best friends? If she were
my fried, she wouldn't had stolen my boyfriend.
-I'm sure Michiru didn't mean to hurt you -said Mina sitting on the
bed next to her friend.
-Then why? If she didn't mean to make me feel as pure trash, then why
did she seduce Jadeite? -exclaimed sailor mars.
Before Mina could find a good answer to make Rei feel better, someone
knocked lightly on the door. Princess Venus stood and walked towards
the entrance as she said before unlocking the mahogany door:
-Who is it?
-It's just Ami and me -said Lita on the other side.
Mina opened the door and let the two princess into the room and sat
on a couch, the Lita breather deeply and said:
-We went to the Opera House to see the rehearsal, but Lord Amadeus
told us that you two were already gone so we thought you would be
here.
-Did Amadeus tell you what happened? -asked Mina murmuring.
-Not the whole story -said Ami- and that's why we came here. We're
worried about Rei.
-And I understand why -said Mina turning to look at the sobbing lady-.
She has gone into a lot of pressure.
Ami nodded and stood up walking toward the bed, then she placed a hand
on Rei's shoulder and she said softly:
-You're yet all wet. You better go and take a bath and change those
clothes before you get sick.
Then, she handled a handkerchief to Rei as she cleaned her tears.
-Okay -sighed the martian princess, then she got up and walked toward
the bathroom where Mina and Lita were already preparing the warm
bathtub for their friend.
As soon as the place were ready, the two girls left Rei alone and
closed the bathroom's door as they walked toward the little living
room where Amy was sitting submerged in her own thoughts.
-How is she? -asked Ami rising her gaze at her friends.
-Much better now. At least she's not crying -answered Lita somehow
conformed.
-Now, Mina, you can tell us what really happened at the theater
-said Amy seriously.
The young lady from Venus sighed deeply before telling them the
whole story of Jadeite kissing Michiru, and how Rei fell into the
water. The two maidens heard the story quietly and with an emotionless
look on their white faces. As soon as Mina finished telling them the
story, the three remained silent not noticing that the bathroom door
had went open and that Rei, wearing a bathrobe, was looking at them
confused.
-What's going on? Did I do anything wrong? -asked the princess
concerned.
-No, no, you didn't do anything wrong -said Mina standing with a
smile-. We were just thinking what you should were tonight for
dinner.
-Thank you, but I really don't feel like going to a banquet -said
Rei softly.
-Come on, Rei, I know it's not a great reason, but looking good
sometimes makes you feel better -said Mina oppening the wardrobe.
-If it didn't worked with Serena, what makes you think it will work
with me? -asked Rei rising an eyebrow.
-Well, you said it yourself -said Amy with a confident smile-:
you're not like Serena.
Rei couldn't help but smile with the comment, and then, she join
Mina on the dress search. A second latter, they were discussing
about what gown was more appropriate for the occasion. Lita and Ami
grinned looking at the two princesses, and how Rei was acting now.
A while latter, they were too busy fixing Princess Mar's hair and
make-up to even remember the name "Jadeite".
Rei stepped forward to look at the reflection on the body length
mirror. She was wearing the prettiest A-line satin burgundy dress
with an organza overskirt and bell bottomed sleeves. Princess Mars
grinned and then turned around to look at her friends.
-Thank you -she said bowing-. You're the best friends in the world.
Mina stepped forward and with a warm smile, she said sweetly:
-Come on, let's go to show everyone how beautiful is our singer
looking.
Rei nodded and the four girls left the chambers. The sun had set now
behind the majestic moon mountains, and the sky was stained by light
violet blue clouds. The gardens were full of young ladies and gentlemen
sitting by the fountains and benches sharing whispers and smiles. The
scouts walked through the white marvel paths looking at the fireflies
flying over the flowers and their delicate light reflecting on the
lake as clouds of living stars. Finally, the took a seat under a big
old oak, and sighing, Mina requested:
-Please Rei, sing one of those beautiful songs you know.
-I don't think so -answered Rei-. I don't want my voice to get tired
before tomorrow's opera. I rather remain quiet for a while.
The girls didn't notice, but when Rei was talking, Amy's face suddenly
became sad and a stress look appeared on her crystal clear blue eyes.
The spent a while just sitting and looking at the stars and the Earth
shinning over the big dark lake, but then, Amy stood up and with a
little smile, she said:
-It's almost dinner time, I better go an get ready.
Lita stood too, and grinning, she said:
-I'll go with you
Then, she turned to Mina and said:
-You wait here with Rei, anyway, you always look great.
Mina flushed with the commentary, and then, the two princesses started
walking toward the palace as Mina said out loud:
-We'll meet by eight o' clock at the Blue Hall!

It was almost seven and the palaces halls were all now lighted by
cerulean blue candles lying on big, silver chandeliers. The guests
were now entering and walking toward their bedrooms, and weirdly,
the west wing of the palace was oddly busy.

-What's up, Amy, you haven't opened your mouth the whole way here
-said Lita with a concerned look on her face.
-Rei's dying... -sighed Amy sadly- and we were so stupid to fake we
didn't notice.
-What do you mean? You've seen her yourself, she's happy and cheerful,
how could she possibly be sick or anything? -exclaimed Lita amazed.
-I'm not talking about her health, I'm talking about her feelings
-said Amy softly-. He's as depressed as someone can be. She's totally
devastated, and trying to hide it behind a big smile is the first
symptom that she's suffering for real this time.
-But...how did you know? -asked Lita calmly this time.
-I've known her since we were little girls -said Amy with a little
smile-, and she acted exactly the same way when...
Amy shut up suddenly and continue walking as if nothing were ever
said. Lita, on the other hand  remained there and asked seriously:
-When what? What are you talking about? Is there anything about Rei
that we don't know?
-No, no, I just confused her with someone else -said Amy laughing
nervously-. Maybe Rei isn't depressed after all.
-I'm sorry, Amy, I can't believe you now -said Lita lowering her
head-. If anything happened to Rei before I met her, I must now.
-No you mustn't, she's not your girlfriend or anything. Just forget
I ever mentioned *that* -said Amy walking faster toward her own
chambers.



***



The Blue Hall looked lovely that night, all lighted by crystal
chandeliers hanging on the ceiling, and blue flowers on every table.
Most of tge guests were already there when the sailor scouts got
there for dinner, all of them except for Serena. The four generals
were also at the main table, even Jadeite who were enjoying a good
chat with Zoisite. Amy and Lita got to the dinning room before Rei
and Mina, who sat at the table ignoring the men sitting there. Soon,
Michiru entered the Hall too so Jadeite bowed at his friends and
switched to the next table to sit with Michiru, Haruka and Hotaru.
A while passed and there were no sight of Queen Serenity, and several
murmurs were heard in all the tables.
-I wonder were Serena and Endymion are -said Mina looking around the
hall.
-Maybe they just got distracted -said Malachite winking an eye at
her.
-Who asked you, anyway -answered Mina coldy.
-What's wrong, Mina? It was just a joke! -exclaimed the guy concerned
trying to take her hand, but Mina pull it away.
-Nothing's wrong -said her seriously.
-Come on, I know something's bothering you. Why would such a nice
face would be stained by that serious look -said the general sweetly.
-That's it? You just care about a nice face? You guys are all the
same! -exclaimed Mina as she started to cry.
-What's going on with you? -asked Nephrite looking at the fighting
couple.
-It's not of your interest! Maybe you should get more focused in your
own business! -said Lita with a mean look.
-Now are you going to act the same way? -asked Nephrite looking at
his girlfriend.
-And what are you going to do if I do so? Dump me and cheat on me
with my best friend? -said the brunette princess looking at Jadeite.
-What's wrong with you girls? I still don't understand what's the
dumping paranoia! -said Nephrite angrily.
-Well, maybe you should ask your little friend Jadeite over there
-said Lita pointing at the general talking with Michiru.
-Come on! There's no need to fight! -said Zoisite trying to calm
them down.
-Yeah, right! You say that now, but I guess that if you see my
*kissing* and other guy you would start a war! -said Amy seriously.

The generals and scouts kept arguing, until the chamberlain entered
the room and with a clear, loud voice, said:
-Her Majesty, Queen Serenity, wont be having dinner tonight. She deeply
apologize for her absence.

Haruka, looking really, said looking at Michiru in thoughtful way:
-I wonder what could happen to make the Queen not come. She never
cancel any commitment.
-By the way, I haven't seen either Serena or Setsuna. Maybe there are
trouble with the Pluto's royalty -sigh Michiru.
-I just wish they're okay -added Hotaru, and then, the table became
silent.


***



Serena felt herself dizzy lying somewhere she didn't know. Her
whole body seemed to be just a cloud, and something cold touched
her bared back. She knew she had her eyes closed, and the only thing
she could recognize was the deep smell of roses around her. Finally,
she recovered the knowledge. She remembered using the key and the
energy hitting her. Trying unsuccessfully to move, Serena questioned
herself:
-What happened? Where am I? Is it possible that I'm...dead?!



To be continued...


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


At last!! I finished!! I hope you liked this chapter! It took me and
eternity to upload and I'm deeply sorry! I promise I wont take that
much to upload chapter XIV...
So, I love reading your comments! Thanks to everyone who has sent
e-mail to me! You're the best in the world, and answering your
question, I would never leave unfinished this story, so, don't worry!

Sincerely,

Lady Susyte

*This joke was original from Meara, I just thought it was soooo
cute I couldn't help to use it!