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 me readers! I love you all!

Sincerely,

Lady Susyte 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

Rising of a Silver Utopia
By
Lady Susyte

Part I: Never say Never...
 
Chapter IX

Rei was lying on her bed sobbing as she remembered what had happened. 
She'd never been that angry before, and as every time she let herself 
into those strong feelings of anger, she was now sunken in the worst of 
all depressions. She felt lost and lonely, and most of all, guilty. Her 
room seemed darker than always and a cold wind coming from the opened 
window gave her Goosebumps as she asked out loud how could she be that 
stupid.

Serena and Endymion were walking side by side near the scout's chambers 
on the west side of the great palace. After being looking for about half 
an hour, she sat on a couch and sighed defeated. The prince took a seat 
next to Serena and looking at her sad face he said caressing her cheek.
-Don't be sad, we'll find them.
-That's not the problem -said Serena lowering her head- I know that Rei's 
in her room is just that...
The princess suddenly went silent as the prince looked at her expecting 
to hear what that "that" meant. 
-What's wrong? If you knew since the beginning that she's there, why did 
you kept looking for almost half an hour? -asked Endymion confused.
-It were just an excuse -said Serena softly.
-And excuse for what? -asked the prince even more confused.
-For being with you -said Serena, then she stood up and started running 
covering her face with both hands.
-Wait, Serena! -exclaimed Endymion running after her until he reached her 
and stopped her by grabbing her arm, then he pulled her closer to him and 
encircled her petite body with his strong arms.
-Why did you start running like that? -he asked looking into her eyes.
-I'm such a dumb: I always screw up things! I shouldn't said that! You 
must think I'm stupid and foolish and...
Endymion shut her up by pulling her closer to him and kissing her lips 
passionately as she relaxed letting herself into the moment. After a long 
while, he separated from her and glancing at her with a warm smile, he 
stared at her blushed cheeks and her bright eyes as she looked back at 
him in a curious, yet affable way. He leaned towards her and touched the 
crescent moon on her forehead with his gentle lips then, he said:
-I would never, ever, think you're stupid, or foolish or anything: to be 
honest, you're a really clever lady and I really admire that, and after 
all, it was me the one who decided to join you at the dinning room.
-I think we should get back to the Blue Hall now -said Serena trying to 
escape from his captivating gaze.
-And what about Rei? -asked Endymion releasing Serena.
-I think she needs to be alone right now -answered the princess sighing.
Serena started walking down the aisle as the prince walked next to her. 
She looked calm and serene, yet thoughtful. Endymion couldn't help but 
glancing at her. The princess moved slowly holding her hands in front of 
her and looking down at the burgundy carpet. On the other hand, the 
prince walked straight and looked forward swelling with pride. 

-I can't believe he did *that* -thought Serena submerged in her own mind-. 
I could swear he hated me, but now, I'm so confused! I really like him, 
and his lips...gosh! He's so sweet, so gentle, so perfect. I wonder what 
he's thinking right know: he looks so calm and proud...
-Serena! Watch out! -said the prince out loud.
~CRASH~
-Ouch! That hurts! -exclaimed Serena falling on her back after collapsing 
with one of the marble columns surrounding the stair.
-Too late... -said the prince helping her to her feet-. Are you okay?
-I think so -said Serena rubbing the bump on her forehead.
-Let me see -said Endymion stepping closer to her and putting his hand on 
her head as he looked at the hump-. You'll be fine, but be more careful 
next time.
-I'm always careful! I don't know what happened to me -said Serena more 
to herself than to the prince.
-Lets go, and if you want, I can guide you -said Endymion teasingly.
-It's not necessary -said Serena a little upset as she walked quickly 
towards the stairs leaving him behind.
-Don't get mad at me, I was joking -said the prince approaching her.
-Oh, really? -said Serena sarcastically.
-Don't start with your irony -said Endymion walking next to her-. I rather 
see the sweet Serena I lo...
He suddenly went silent and moved his gaze away from her.
-You lo...?
-I loiter with -finished the prince trying to sound as convincing as 
possible.
-Loiter? -asked Serena giggling-. So being with me is a loose of time?
-Well... -mumbled Endymion-. It depends...
-It depends on what? -asked Serena looking at him.
-I surrender: it's not a loose of time and I accept it -said him finally 
looking into her eyes.
-You said exactly what I wanted to hear -said Serena smiling.
-So you like men to surrender to you, uh? -said the prince returning the 
smile.
-Men? No, just you -said Serena reaching his hand.
They kept walking towards the big dinning room and hearing that the 
sailor scouts and the generals were approaching, they released their 
hands and started walking faster than before. Mina looked at the couple 
and said a bit upset:
-Where were you? We were about to go looking after you too! 
-Sorry, we just had some troubles finding Rei -said Serena making up an 
excuse.
-Did you found her? -asked Amy concerned.
-Well, yes, but I don't think she's coming -answered Serena with a sad 
look.
-Endymion, look what we found lost in the gardens -said Malachite pulling 
the other general's arm.
-Jadeite! Where did you get? We were worried about you -said the prince 
stepping forward.
-Sorry, it wasn't my fault that Rei left me there! I tried my best to 
find my way back, and anyway, I'm not a little boy anymore! I can take 
care of myself: stop blaming me! -said Jadeite angrily.
-Calm down, Jadeite, we're not blaming you for anything -said Serena 
stepping closer to the man-. We were worried about you because you're our 
friend, and because the gardens are no safe place to be by night even for 
a brave warrior: anyone can fall in a hole in the middle of the darkness. 
We don't want anything bad happening to you.
Jadeite lowered his head hearing Serena's sweet words and with a calm 
tone, he said:
-I'm sorry, I shouldn't been so harsh with you, guys.
-It's okay -answered the prince-. Now, we should go back to the Blue Hall: 
they must be waiting for us.
Everyone nod and the sailor scouts and the generals entered the room: 
first Mina and Malachite, then Lita and Nephrite and then Amy, Zoisite 
and Jadeite. Serena and Endymion remained outside, then he looked at her 
and bowing he said gentlemanly:
-Princess, would you let me escort you inside the room?
-I'll be honored -answered Serena politely as she smiled at him.
The princess took Endymion's arm and the two entered the hall walking 
towards the main table. They sat down and Queen Serenity looked concerned 
at her daughter and asked:
-Serena, what happened? Why did you left like that?
-I'm sorry, mother, I was checking on Rei: Mina told me she wasn't 
feeling well at all, so I went to her room -answered Serena evading 
Jadeite's part.
-And how's her? Is she coming or not? -asked Serenity worried.
-No, she's not hungry so she'll stay in her room -said Serena making up 
an excuse.

After Endymion took his sit between Serena and the king, Etlio turned to 
look at his son and said a bit upset:
-Endymion, what were you thinking? You're not a kid anymore for being 
running away like that! 
-I didn't mean to bother you, I just needed to help the generals with 
some stuff -answered the prince humbly.
-What kind of "stuff" concerning Princess Serena? -asked the king 
suspicious.
-Well...hmmm...I... -mumbled Endymion blushing.
-It's okay son, just be careful: don't forget that she is the heir to the 
Moon Kingdom -said Etlio winking at the prince with a smile.
Endymion nodded and the banquet were served. The tables were served with 
the most spectacular dishes from the moon. In one of the sides of the 
hall, a violin quartet directed by Princess Michiru were playing melodies 
from all over the solar system. The music and the food were exquisite and 
that was what made Queen Serenity's parties famous. All the people were 
laughing and having fun chatting with the other members of the royalty. 
The banquet was a complete success. Serena felt happy looking how 
everything was working out, so she just finished her food silently 
listening to Michiru's sweet melodies, and then she turned to the queen 
and asked:
-Mother, may I leave now?
-Sure, Serena. You've been working really hard today -answered Serenity 
looking at her daughter sleepy eyes.
The princess stood up and left the room in silence. Endymion looked at 
her and rose to leave, but before he turned to King Etlio and said:
-Father, I must...
-You don't have to explain -interrupted the king nodding-. You can go, 
just remember what I've told you.
The prince bowed at the queen, then he left the room quickly closing the 
door behind him.

Serena started walking towards her own chambers but stopped hearing steps 
behind her. She turned and found Prince Endymion running after her.
-why are you here and not enjoying the party with the other guests? 
-asked Serena looking at him.
-To be honest, I can't enjoy any party if you're not there, but that's 
not the main reason -answered the prince stepping closer to her.
-So? What's the main reason? -asked Serena curious.
-You haven't showed me my room yet -answered him smiling.
-You're right. I'm so sorry, I should do that before. Will you forgive 
me? -said Serena ashamed.
-It's okay, but I was wondering if you can do that now -said Endymion.
-Sure, it's this way -said Serena and started walking.
-Hey! Wait for me -said the prince and took her hand in his as he 
approached the princess.
 
The two went to the west wing of the palace and Serena lead Endymion the 
room at the end of the corridor. She carefully opened the door and with a 
little smile she said:
-This is you room. I hope you like it.
Endymion stepped inside and took a quick look all around the room, then 
he turned to the princess and grinning he said:
-It's great! I love it!
After that, he hugged Serena and kissing her forehead he finished:
-Thank you...
-You're welcome -answered Serena resting her head on his chest, then she 
closed her eyes and yawned.
Endymion looked down glancing at the sleepy maiden in his arms. She 
looked so adorable with her eyes closed and that little smile on her rosy 
lips. He caressed her check with his hand and said:
-You look pretty tired: if you like I can come in and sat for a while.
-Don't worry, I'll go to my room now. Thanks, anyway -said Serena moving 
away as the prince released her.
-So, I'll see you tomorrow -said Endymion.
-I think so -said Serena holding her hands in front of her.
A heavy silence fall between them as both shut up expecting the other one 
to say something. Serena finally stepped closer to the prince and kissed 
his cheek saying:
-Good night.
-What are you doing? -asked Endymion looking at her confused.
-I thought that's the way you say good bye on Earth -answered Serena 
ashamed lowering her head.
-Well yes, that's the way we say goodbye to a friend, not good night! 
-said the prince looking kinda upset-. I'll show how to do it but you 
must promise something.
-What is it? -asked Serena curious.
-You'll only use that to say goodnight to me -said Endymion seriously.
-All right, I promise -answered Serena confused.
-Fine then -said the prince, then he hold her tight and kissed her lips, 
then he looked into her eyes and said:
-Good night, Serena. I'm so lucky to know you.
-Are you sure that's the way you say good nigh in the Earth? -asked 
Serena still in the prince's arms.
-No, I just made all that up so I could kiss you -said Endymion laughing.
-You're a jerk! You lied to me! -said Serena laughing as well.
-It was for a good cause -said the prince playing with her long blond 
hair.
-Maybe, but anyway, I should go: it's not appropriate for a princess like 
me to be here with a prince like you at this hours -said Serena moving 
away from him.
-Sorry for my impertinence, you highness -said Endymion sarcastically 
bowing.
-Hey, don't start with that, I really must go. It's late and I must get 
up early in the morning -said Serena looking into his eyes.
-I know, I must do that too, so...goodnight -said Endymion stepping 
inside his room.
-Good night! -said Serena walking down the corridor waving her hand at 
him.

***

Prince Endymion locked his room's door and let himself into the soft bed 
grinning. His heart was beating wildly and his whole mind was focused on 
her. Every seemed so perfect when he had her in his arms, and he felt 
paradise when his lips touched hers. 

-I love her! I love her! I love her! -exclaimed the prince to himself, 
but then, a light knock were heard on the door.
-One second! -said the prince standing up, then he walked towards the 
door and opened it founding Malachite.
-Hey, dud, how did you find my room? -asked Endymion letting the generals 
into the room.
-I asked Mina -said Malachite examining the room-. Gosh, this place is 
huge!
-I know -said Endymion siting on the couch.
-And it has a great view! -odd the general going out the balcony.
Endymion stood up and joined Malachite outside looking at the gardens.
-It certainly does -said the prince inhaling the sweet night air 
impregnated with the fragrance from the garden's roses.
-Endy, look at me for a sec -said Malachite looking at the prince.
-What's up? -asked the prince turning to face the general.
-What's that on your lips? Isn't it pink lipstick? -said the general 
looking closer-. How did you get yourself stained with pink lipstick?!
-I can explain that... -mumbled Endymion blushing.
-Wait a minute: did you kissed *her*?! -exclaimed Malachite amazed.
-Said it louder, I think they didn't hear you on Pluto! -said the prince 
sarcastically entering the room-. Yes, I kissed her. So?
-Did she kiss you back? -asked Malachite walking towards the couch taking 
a seat.
-What's with this interrogatory? -said the prince upset sitting on an 
armchair-. Yes, she kissed me back. What's going on? Why are you so 
amazed?
-Maybe because she's the heir to one of the most powerful kingdoms and 
you two used to hate each other -said Malachite still astonished.
-You know what they say: there's a thin line between love and hate, and 
about being the heir, what's with that? -asked Endymion confused.
-Hello! She's gonna be queen someday and you'll be king! It's just a 
matter of interests. If you two have a silly fight you can be risking 
your kingdoms' peace -said the general concerned.
-Come on! That's not going to happen, and after all, any good king knows 
that sentimental and diplomatic relationships do not mix up, so, we can 
hate each other but that doesn't mean that our kingdoms has to be enemies 
-answered Endymion starting to despair.
-Okay, fine, so you asked her to be your girlfriend? -asked Malachite 
changing the subject.
-No, I didn't asked her anything! -answered Endymion.
-You at least told her what you feel about her? -asked Malachite. 
-I tried but I couldn't -answered the prince.
-That's it? She's not your girlfriend, she doesn't know you love her, you 
just kissed each other? -asked the general looking at his friend.
-Technically, yes... -answered Endymion resting his head on his hands.
-What are you going to do? Leave things like this? -told Malachite 
curious.
-Of course not: I'm going to tell Serena that I love her, is just that I 
don't know how or when to do it -said the prince sighing.
-Well, you still have a week think, just make sure to tell her, otherwise 
she'll think you're just playing with her -answered Malachite rising.
-I would never do something like that: I'm really and truly in love with 
Serena. Right now I can only think about her and knowing she's near is 
the only thing that keeps me alive -said Endymion standing up too.
-You see, it's not that hard: just say the same thing to her and 
everything would be solved -said the general putting his hand on his 
friend's shoulder, then turned and left the room.

Alone and tired, Endymion put on his nightgown and lied on his bed 
covering himself with the silk blankets. He rested his head on the pillow 
and looking at the ceiling he murmured a last "I love you" to his princess 
before letting himself into a deep and calm sleep.

***

After leaving Endymion's chamber, Serena thought to return to her room 
and have some sleep, but then she stopped and decided to go and check on 
Rei before leaving the west wing of the palace. She started walking down 
a long corridor and reaching one door, she knocked softly.
-Please, go away -said Rei from inside the room with her voice shakily.
-Rei, it's me, Serena. Please, let me in -said Serena calmly.
-Okay, come in -answered Princess Mars as Serena opened the door and 
entered the room.
The princess with black hair were lying on her bed with her arms around 
the pillow she was resting her head on. Serena sat on the bed next to her 
and handling her handkerchief to her friend, she said softly:
-Calm down, Rei, I know that men are a bunch of fools that doesn't know 
anything, but you can't be angry forever.
-What do you know: you're in love with one of them -said Rei lifting her 
head as she took the tissue from Serena and cleaned her face.
-Maybe Jadeite did something foolish and cruel, but hey! There are a lot 
of men out there. Maybe someday you'll find the one for you -said Serena 
trying to avoid the other girl's commentary.
-I know that you're trying to comfort me, but I'm not interested in guys! 
I want to be a warrior priestess, not a wife -said Rei getting into a 
sitting position.
-What I'm trying to tell you, Rei, is that guys only have one thing that 
guest bigger everyday and that hurts like hell when you hit it, and 
that's their ego. Jadeite found out that you're not the kinda girl that's 
going to feed his ego with praises, so he said all that stuff, not to 
insult you, but to make himself think that he has the control over the 
relationship -said Serena facing Rei.
-Really? -asked Rei skeptical.
-Sure! The same happened with Endymion: he insulted me every single time
we saw each other only because I'm the only person who ever dared to call 
him a jerk. They just feel as if you're invading their territory, but on 
the other hands, that means that the guy respect you -answered Serena 
feeling confident.
-Thank you, Serena, I'm feeling much better now -said sailor mars holding 
the moon princess.
-You're welcome, anyway, what are friends for? -answered Serena hugging 
her friend back.
-Good night, Serena, and good luck with your boyfriend -said Rei winking.
-Boyfriend? What boyfriend? -asked Serena confused moving away from Rei.
-Come on, who else but Endymion! He's your boyfriend, right? -said the 
Martian princess.
-I'm not sure; he hasn't told me to be his girlfriend yet -answered 
Serena thoughtful.
-At least he told you what he feels about you, doesn't he? -asked Rei a 
little concerned.
-I don't think so -answered Serena trying to remember anything.
-So? What did you do? -asked Rei getting despair.
-Well, we kinda...kissed -mumbled Serena blushing.
-And you let him do that?! -asked Rei amazed. 
-Of course I let him: I love him! What's the big deal with that? -asked 
Serena starting do get upset and worried.
-Serena: he's not your boyfriend AND you don't know if he feels the same 
about you or not! If you ask my opinion, I think he's playing with you 
-answered Rei sighing.
-But...why would he do something like that? -murmured Serena sitting on 
the bed as a big sadness covered her face.
-You know men, they only want to have fun! To them, girls are like 
trophies: they always want a new one, but when the get it, they forget 
about the other ones. He will use you, and then, he'll find an other 
princess -said Rei as Serena's eyes got wet with tears.
-No...not my Endymion...I know he's not like that! -exclaimed Serena 
angrily.
-Maybe, but anyway, be careful: you never know a person well enough 
-said the sailor scout solemnly.
-I don't know Rei, I just want to believe in him -said Serena walking 
towards the door, but before leaving she turned to Rei and said-. Thank 
you anyway, but I'll take the risk.

Serena left the west wing of the palace and took his way towards her own 
chamber as her heart and mind fought to give her an answer: she loved 
Endymion and she knew somehow that he felt the same way, but on the other 
hand, Rei was right: he never asked her to be his girlfriend or that he 
loved her too, he just took her in his arms an kissed her as if she were 
a doll. Suddenly, the princess started feeling depressed and confused; 
for the first time in her life she felt that the big empty hole inside 
her soul was being filled, but Rei had plant inside of her heart the seed 
of doubt. Serena entered her room and sighed heavily looking the still 
fresh rose in her nightstand. It looked as red and alive as the first day 
and somehow it seemed as it the flower were smiling at her. The princess 
quickly undressed and put on her nightgown as she let her hair down. She 
sat in front of her vanity and looking her refection on the mirror, she 
said to herself:
-Who am I trying to fool? Rei's right: why would the crown prince of 
Earth would love, at least like a plain, spoiled and silly princess like 
me. I think I've let my mind fly too far from reality thinking that he 
may love me as much as I love him.
Then, she started crying her eyes out and hid her head in her crossed 
arms that were resting on the table.
***

The sun rose over the palace shinning brightly, giving everything and 
everyone the feeling of being alive. It was nearly seven and all the 
servant were all ready up preparing the hall for breakfast. The warm 
sunrays passed trough Serena's window resting on Serena's porcelain skin 
stained with tears. She opened her eyes slowly feeling them big and dry 
for being crying all night. Standing up, the princess walked towards 
wardrobe and picked a simple empire style lavender dress with a tip 
off-the shoulders neckline, short fitted sleeves and a bow around the 
waistline, then she took a quick shower and dressed up. She put her hair 
as always in the two buns and tried to fake a smile as she walked to the 
dinning room to meet with the guests. She breathed deep and then opened 
the door finding only Queen Serenity, Luna, Artemis, Michiru, Setsuna, 
Queen Calice and King Etlio sitting at the main table. She took her seat 
next to her mother and salute the crown politely as she lost herself 
inside her own thoughts. One by one, the guest arrived to the hall, and 
finally the person the princess was expecting to see passed trough the 
door and join her at the table.
-Good morning, Serena -said Endymion looking at her lovingly
-Good morning -answered Serena her gaze looked in the blue tablecloth.
-What's wrong? -asked the prince looking how sad Serena looked, but she 
just lifted her head and faking a smile she said:
-Nothing's wrong, I'm just sleepy; that's all.
-Liar -he murmured taking her hand under the table, but then a group of 
servant appro9ached the table carrying the trails full of food, do he 
released her hand and glanced at the princess trying to discover what 
were wrong with her.
Everyone ate the wonderful breakfast and then, the whole crowd left going 
towards the gardens to pass the day outside with the other members of the 
royalty. Serena, on the other hand, stood and went to the library 
all-alone with a look of seriousness on her face. She entered the big 
hall all surrounded by bookshelves and took a little book in her hands 
taking a seat at one of the tables all over the place. She started 
reading silently, but then the door behind her went open and she sighed 
expecting to see Endymion, but when she turned around, she found Mina 
standing by the entrance. The princess smile and with relief she said:
-Mina, it's you! What are you doing here?
-I ask you the same question: what are you doing here and not outside in 
a day like this? -said Mina siting on one of the chairs surrounding the 
table-. The sun's shinning, the birds are singing and the people's 
laughing; I shouldn't be telling you this, but Endymion is really worried 
about you. 
-Why would he care for me? I'm just an other of his prince's toys -said 
Serena sadly.
-Where did you get those ideas? The man's mad about you! -exclaimed Mina 
amazed by Serena's commentary.
-Rei's told me...
-Rei says a lot of things! -interrupted Mina-. If you keep acting based 
on what people tells to you, you'll never find happiness! Listen to me, 
Malachite tells me everything, and I can swear to you that Endymion's 
not playing with you, believe me.
-Okay, I'll give him a chance, anyway, what's love without trust? 
-answered the moon princess standing up as she walked towards the door-. 
Come on, Mina, we're missing the sun!
The two girls went out to the back gardens, near the lake, were the 
ladies were walking under their parasols and gentlemen riding horses as 
a typical picture of royalty. Serena and Mina took their way down to a 
big oak just by the lake were the scouts and the generals were sitting 
at the tree's shade. Mina sat just next to Malachite as he put an arm 
around her, but Serena remained standing looking that the prince wasn't 
there. She glanced at the couples sitting on the grass and the little 
boats all over the lake, but suddenly her world became black as a pair a 
hands covered her eyes and a gentle male voice murmured into her ear:
-Guess who...
-Don't be silly! I know it's you Endymion; I saw your reflection on the
water -said Serena turning around as the prince released her hands from 
her eyes.
-Where were you? I was worried about you -said Endymion looking into her 
eyes-. You walked away from the dinning room and I didn't have the chance 
to say that I really had a great time yesterday.
-Me too -answered Serena smiling.
-Come on, lets take a walk -said the prince taking Serena's hand as they 
left the lake surroundings going near Lita's crystal hothouse were 
daffodils and iris grew in little groups all over the courtyard 
surrounded by peach and plum's trees. It was a warm morning and the 
sunrays passed through the leaves and branches projecting the trees' 
silhouettes on the marble floor. Endymion finally stopped in the middle 
of the garden and taking a look around, he turned his gaze back to Serena 
and said:
-The generals told me that there's a great training arena just by this 
gardens: would you show it to me? 
-Sure, It's right this way -answered the princess walking towards a 
little hill by the hothouse.
They finally arrived the training room, and Serena opened the door 
letting Endymion into the room as he looked amazed at the weapons hanging 
on the walls.
-This place is incredible! I've never seen something like this before 
-said the prince examining the room.
-Yeah, that's why I love to come here -said Serena breathing deeply.
-Wait: I thought this kind of places were for princes and warriors, not 
for princesses; I always had the idea that they spent their time dancing 
at balls and embroidering by the gardens, not here playing with swords 
-said Endymion turning to look at the princess.
-Well, you thought wrong: we princesses can be even stronger that you 
princes -answered Serena in an arrogant way.
-What are trying to say? -asked Endymion rising an eyebrow.
-I'm saying that I could defeat you a hand tied on the back -answered the 
moon princess with a mean smile on her face.
-Are you challenging me? No way! I never unshed my sword against a lady 
-said the prince laughing finding her duel silly.
-Come on, it seem as if you were scared, you chicken -said Serena faking 
chicken sounds.
-Stop it! I'm not afraid, is just that I don't want fight with a princess! 
-he exclaimed starting to feel insulted.
-If you're not a chicken, probe it and accept the challenge -said Serena 
looking at him.
-Okay, it goes against all my principles, but I will fight you! Are you 
happy now? -said the prince finally trying to remain calm.
-Not until I win -answered Serena-. Now, ever since I'm the one who's 
challenging you, you'll pick your weapon first.
-I pick my sword, obviously, and you? -asked the prince unshipping the 
shinning blade.
-I won't use any weapon -answered the princess looking confident.
-Are you nuts? You MUST pick a weapon: at least a dagger! -exclaimed the 
prince amazed.
-No, I don't need that stuff. Selenite people doesn't use weapons: we 
rather use our magic skills that a sword, or a dagger -said Serena 
crossing her arms in front of her-. Now, on guard!
Serena stood there waiting for the prince to hit her, but he remained 
there looking at her as he started laughing and said:
-I won't attack barehanded princess, is just not right.
-Then I'll do it -said Serena putting her hand in front of her crescent 
moon and screamed as it started shinning: -Moon Tiara Magic!
The magic weapon passed just next to the unalarmed prince scratching his 
robe as he took his sword and started running towards the princess. She 
evaded all the prince's attempts to harm her, but after a while she 
started to get tired and finally Endymion got her inadvertently ready to 
give her the final stroke, but just when the sword was approaching the 
unarmed princess, the crescent moon on her forehead started shinning and 
a blinding light filled the room making the prince to droop his sword as 
he felt his head about to explode with the tremendous energy coming from 
his opponent.
-Stop it! I'm barehanded now! -shouted Endymion as the light started to 
disappear. 
-So, do you surrender? -asked Serena as the energy became less powerful.
-No, I still have this ones -answered the prince moving his hand towards 
the princess.
-What are you going to do -asked Serena curious.
-Use a secret technique that have been in my family for centuries -said 
Endymion getting closer to her-, the monstrous killer tickling machine!
The prince put his hands around Serena's waist and started to tickle her 
as he laughed out loud trying to escape from the her opponent's clutches.
She started to walk backwards becoming corralled by him, but then, she 
didn't see the sword lying on the floor making her to stumbled while she 
tried to keep the balance by grabbing the prince's arm, but this only 
cause him to loose the balance too, making him to fall over her down to 
the ground.
A big clangor sounded as Serena collapsed on her back with prince 
Endymion over her, but then, she managed to opened her eyes crossing her 
gaze with his.
-Are you okay? -asked Endymion concerned.
-My back's aching and I think I sprained my ankle, but I'm fine -said 
Serena making a little pain grimace-. But the thing that's hurting the 
most is my pride: I must say you won...
-What are you saying? No one ever made me drop my sword before; you're 
great! -exclaimed Endymion.
-Okay, lets say it was a tie -said the princess smiling.
Suddenly the training room door went opened and Amy said standing by the 
entrance:
-Guys! Lunch's ready! Wait a minute, what are you doing?! 
The princess with blue hair blushed founding Endymion over Serena lying 
on the floor, but then, Serena blushed too and interrupted saying:
-It's not what you're thinking! We were fighting, and then I stumbled 
and we fell to the floor! Nothing happened! really!
-Sorry, I shouldn't came here, but don't worry: I won't tell anyone 
-said Amy covering her face ashamed and left.
-Great! exclaimed Serena sarcastically as her friend went away with a 
really disturbed story about what really happened.
Endymion moved away from Serena also a little blushed and took his sword 
putting it back in the sheald and then he turned to the princess and 
lifted her in his arms as she said:
-You don't have to carry me: I'm fine.
-It's just fair, and anyway, I want to carry you -answered Endymion as he 
started walking with the princess in his arms a smile on his face.
-You know, I had a great time: I didn't had that much fun since I was a 
kid -said the prince looking into Serena's eyes as he stopped in front of 
the dinning room.
-I also had a nice time -answered Serena as Endymion helped her into her 
feet.
The two entered the room but it was empty, so Serena started laughing and 
said:
-I totally forgot: today lunch will be served outside.
-So, I carried you all the way here and the food will be served at the 
gardens? I won't forgive you, little brat! You're the most spoiled 
princess I've ever met -said Endymion as he held Serena close to him.
Knowing what he was about to do, Serena avoided the prince's gaze and 
moving away from him, she said grabbing his hand:
-Come on, they must be waiting for us!
He just nodded and started walking next to her heading towards the lake 
were several tablecloths were set under the trees as the guest enjoyed 
the outdoor banquet. The couple went to the same oak tree by the lake 
where the scout and the generals were sitting with a picnic basket full 
with Lita's food. They sat down by the sunshade and saluted the group, 
as Lita pass each of them a plate served with her special dishes. The 
food and the company were great and after eating, they just remained 
sitting on the tablecloth as the sweet breeze played with their hair. 
Amy and Zoisite stood and left towards the other side of the lake 
carrying a book, Mina and Malachite went to the wharf and took one of the 
little boats rowing far away from the bank. Lita and Nephrite left too, 
but they went to the stables to take a pair of horses. The only ones 
remaining on the blanket under the tree were Endymion, Serena, Rei and 
Jadeite. The two princes seemed to be comfortable with the other's 
company, but a heavy silence and a lot of killer gazes separated the 
general and the scout. The afternoon went by and the sun left the center 
of the celestial sphere falling slowly down to the west. Endymion finally, 
took Serena's hand and looking at her he murmured:
-Why don't we go somewhere else? Maybe we can row one of those boats or 
something.
-Yeah, sure -answered Serena, but when she was about to stand up, Rei, 
grabbed her arm and murmured to her with a look of concern on her face:
-Please stay! I don't want to be alone with this guy!
Serena sighed and sat again, and looking at the prince she said:
-Why don't we just stay here  ?
-But a second ago you told me you wanted to leave -said Endymion confused.
The princess got closer to him and said murmuring into his ear trying not 
to call the general's attention:
-Listen to me, we can't leave this two alone: they hate each other, and 
Rei herself told me not to leave.
-You're right -said the prince leaning against the oak's trunk-. Maybe 
you should go and do something with Rei while I talk to Jadeite.
-That's a great idea -answered Serena smiling.
-We'll meet for dinner, okay? -said the prince kissing her hand.
Serena nodded and stood up grabbing Rei's arm as she said:
-Come on, there's something I want to show you.
-All right -answered Rei a little confused, but then, she stood up and 
started following Serena to the palace.

As soon as Serena left, Endymion stood up and walked to where Jadeite 
were siting cleaning his sword's blade with a handkerchief. The prince 
sat next to the general and throwing a little rock into the water he said:
-Jadeite, can I ask you something?
-Yeah, what is it? -said the general without taking his gaze away from the 
weapon.
-You like Rei, don't you? -asked Endymion looking at his friend.
-Of course I don't like her! Why would I like someone like her! She's a 
wolf in sheep clothing! -exclaimed Jadeite drooping the sword.
-It's funny: I used to said the same about Serena -said the prince 
leaning on his back.
-It's totally different: you like Serena and I don't like Rei! -said the 
general.
-I used to say that, too.
-Stop it! I don't like that girl and wont get to like her ever! I mean, 
she acts like a warrior, not like a princess: girls must be feminine and 
sweet, not rude and peevish. I guess she doesn't to anything but playing 
with sword -said Jadeite lifting his weapon.
-How do you know? Did she tell you that? -asked the prince looking at his 
friend.
-No...but it's obvious -answered the general.
-Listen to me, dud, not all that glitters is gold, and thing are not 
always what they seem; maybe you're judging her in a totally unfair way! 
Why don't you give yourself the chance to know her better? -said Endymion 
getting into a sitting position.
-Why would I do that? I know her well enough to say that I don't like her 
-said Jadeite a little upset.
-Come on, I'm just trying to help you, but if you keep being that 
stubborn, you'll never find a girlfriend -said Endymion standing.
-Where are you going? -asked the general looking at his friend.
-I'm going with Serena to tell what you told me so she can to tell Rei 
that you're not interested in her so she can pick one of her other suitors 
-answered the prince turning to look at the other man.
-Suitors? What do you mean? -asked the general rising.
-Come on, she's a princess, she's beautiful, she's smart: why made you 
think she wouldn't have a lot of guys after her, and ever since you told 
me you're not interested in her... -said Endymion about to leave.
-Wait! I said she was a shrew, not that I wanted to see her with an other 
man -said Jadeite getting a bit upset.
-So, you like her -said the prince turning to face general.
-Maybe, but she still treats me like trash -said the blond man.
-You called her irritant and ugly: I would treat you like trash if too if 
you say something like that to me -said Endymion laughing.
-That's not funny! What am I going to do? -said Jadeite upset.
-Well, first of all, you must apologize to her and deny all that stuff, 
second of all, be nice to her: make her feel that you care about her 
-said Endymion calmly and left.

***

Serena took Rei to her chambers, as the Martian princess looked confused 
at her friend. The two girls entered the room as the blond one sat on her 
couch. Rei walked towards Serena a little upset, and said:
-So? What are you going to show me? 
-Oh, right, look at my rose -answered Serena saying the first thing that 
came to her mind.
-What's with that? -asked Rei confused.
-Well, it has been there for about two weeks and it's still in full bloom 
-answered Serena trying to make it seem as a great thing.
-That's all? You made come here just to show me your silly flower? 
-exclaimed Rei disappointed.
-Don't get mad at me: I'm making you a favor -said Serena as Rei sat on 
an armchair.
-What do you mean? Showing me a stupid earth flower is not a big deal 
-said princess mars playing with a cushion.
-I'm not talking about that: if I hadn't take you here you still would 
be out there with Jadeite -answered the moon princess looking at her 
friend.
-Maybe, but I also could leave by myself -said the princess with black 
hair.
-Okay, if you can do everything al by yourself, fine! I'll go with 
Endymion while you take care of your own busyness -said Serena a bit 
upset standing to leave.
-Wait! Don't leave me alone! -exclaimed Rei grabbing Serena's arm- Lita's 
with Nephrite, Mina's with Malachite and Amy's with Zoisite: I'm the only 
one who doesn't have a boyfriend or a suitor or anything. 
-That's because you don't know how to treat men: you must be sweet and 
delicate, in other words, use your feminine charms to seduce them -said 
Serena winking an eye at Rei.
-And what am I supposed to do? -asked Rei doesn't liking the idea at all.
-First of all, you must dress like a princess, not like a priestess 
-answered Serena walking towards her wardrobe as she dug searching for 
the right dress-. This one will look really nice on you.
The blond princess turned around carrying a beautiful empire waistline, 
floor-length crimson gown with an A-line crepe skirt, and triple 
spaghetti straps.
-Try this on, Rei! -said Serena as the other princess took the dress on 
her hands and left to the bathroom locking the door. 
A few minutes latter, Rei entered the room wearing the astonish red dress 
as Serena smiled saying:
-Great, now, sit in front of my vanity: I'll fix your hair.
-Fix my hair? But I like it this way -exclaimed the other princess 
sitting in the little chair.
-Trust me, I'll just brush it -said Serena taking her silver hairbrush in 
her hand as she started passing it softly through Rei's ebony hair. After 
doing this several times, Serena opened one of her vanity's drawers and 
took out silver headband decorated with rubies and rhinestones putting it 
on Rei's head holding her long hair back-. Well, what do you think?
Rei stood up and went to the body-length mirror next to the wardrobe and 
amazed, she exclaimed:
-I look so...different! 
-You look completely astonish, now, try act nicely and you'll totally 
melt Jadeite's heart -said Serena standing behind her.
-I don't think so: that jerk hates me -said Rei turning to face Serena.
-He doesn't hate you, he's just shy -answered the blond princess-. But 
tell me, do you like him?
-He's handsome and I like his style, but I can take the fact that he 
insulted me -said Rei thoughtful-. I wish he could be gentler, like the 
other guys, but it seems that he's only interested in weapons.
-How do you know? You haven't gave yourself the chance to meet him: maybe 
his very sensitive; remember what they say: inside everyone's there's a 
warrior, an artist and a lover -said Serena solemnly.
-Maybe you're right -answered Rei doubtful-. Okay, I'll give it a try.
-That's great! -exclaimed Serena going towards the door- Now, let's go: 
it's almost dinnertime.

The two princesses left the room walking to the Blue Hall where dinner 
was about to start. It was dark now, but the gardens were lighted with 
torches all over them. Fireflies flew over the lake and the stars shinned 
surrounding the blue planet. A hot and festive atmosphere encircled the 
palace and everything, even rocks, seemed to smile.
Princess Serena opened the door slightly and took a look around the room, 
but Endymion wasn't there, so she turned to Rei and said:
-Enter and sit with the other scouts: I'll stay here.
Rei nodded confused and stepped inside the big hall sitting at the main 
table were the other princesses were sitting already with the queen and 
some of the guests. Serena, on the other hand, remained outside and 
leaned her back on the wall looking down the corridor. Five, ten, fifteen 
minutes passed and only guests entered the room, so she turned around to 
enter, but before she could open the door, someone came running down the 
aisle and put an arm around her as the gentlest male voice said into her 
ear:
-Sorry for my delay, I'm not used to the moon's time.
-It's okay, but I was starting to get worried -said Serena turning to hug 
Endymion.
-I'm fine, now, we must enter -answered the prince caressing her cheek.

The two entered the room and took their sits as dinner was served and 
everyone enjoyed the food and the chat. After eating desert, Serena stood 
up and left with the prince behind her, and as soon as they were out of 
the hall, the princess looked at the clock hanging on the wall and 
stepping closer to Endymion, she murmured into his ear.
-I'll met you at your chambers by eleven: wait for me.
Then she blow him a kiss and started running down the aisle.
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