MarshAngel watsonma@hotmailMarshAngel watsonma@hotmail.com
http://angelmoon.sinfree.net
Rated R-NC17 
Disclaimer: standard i.e.: no claim of ownership has or will be made
 
I know it's been a long time and I apologize for that. I have sort of made it up 
with this long and final chapter. I hope it doesn't disappoint anyone but I'd 
understand if you are I'm not sure if I'm quite happy with it. But I am happy to 
have it done. Thanks again for the reviews and... enjoy.
 
Touch
Chapter 11
 
Usagi wandered the streets aimlessly, thinking at times and at others just 
walking with seemingly no thoughts whatsoever going through her head. Saying 
goodbye to her parents was the most difficult thing shed ever had to do and the 
tears had yet to dry on her face. She didnt think she could face another 
goodbye, not to her friends.
She envisioned the scene in her head where she would have each and everyone in 
the same room and try to explain to them that she was leaving them. Even in her 
own mind she couldnt come up with a single scenario where she didnt become 
hysterical with the tears or where they would accept her choice. 
At the moment she didnt think she could face them. How did she say goodbye to 
friends shed known for more time than she had actually been alive on this 
planet? There was just no way to face them. 
As always, when she was upset and mindlessly wandering the streets as she 
occasionally did at two in the morning, she found herself near the park. There 
was something comforting about this place that drew her there which was ironic 
in a way because it had been the site of so many battles. Perhaps it was the 
very reason that every battle fought there had been won and the lives of 
numerous innocents had been saved. 
Innocents and battles were the last things on her mind however, although perhaps 
they should be. She sat on the first bench she came across beneath an enormous 
tree whose branches shadowed a vast area. She pulled up her legs and wrapped her 
arms around them, staring emptily at the few people passing before her without 
really seeing them. 
There was nothing she could say to make leaving them easier for her or for them. 
Perhaps it was best that she didnt at all. After what didnt seem to her, but 
actually was over an hour of contemplation, she decided on what she termed the 
cowards way out. She would write a letter rather than be faced with the full 
effect of their emotions and their efforts to reason with her and convince her 
of all the reasons she shouldnt do this. 
She realized at that moment she had nothing to write with or on, nor had she 
thought much about what exactly she would say. She stood up from the bench and 
rifled through the pockets of her jeans for money. She found some and counted 
it; it was more than enough to buy pen and paper. The last thing she wanted was 
to go back to her house to get anything. Shed turned her back on that, maybe 
not forever but certainly for a very long while at least. 
Time certainly was an odd thing, she thought as she walked out of the park and 
into the streets. It seemed so long ago that she had walked into her brothers 
room and kissed his sleepy cheek goodbye, but it had been not more than an hour 
or two. By her normal standards the day hadnt even begun. It wasnt even 
nearing midday as yet. 
She walked into the first card and stationary store she came by. It was one she 
was very familiar with. Shed bought many mothers day cards here as well as 
numerous birthday cards for her friends. The thought caused tears to well up in 
her eyes but she wiped them away and forced herself to push the thoughts away. 
Certainly she could allow herself to cry a little but she didnt need to be 
questioned by anyone. 
She walked into the back of the store where pads of prettily decorated notepaper 
sat on the shelves. Would she buy cards here ever again? Maybe she was being a 
bit melodramatic but it seemed every little thing reminded her of something 
else. She looked through the many varieties before choosing a plain blue set. 
Usagi the tone was one of surprise and Usagi looked up to see Hisahiko staring 
at her. 
What are you doing here? she stuttered.
Buying you a card, he replied, but it seems youve emerged from your 
self-imposed seclusion so his voice trailed implying the need for an 
explanation from her. 
How could she possibly explain her disappearance into thin air? She simply 
stared at him blankly for a good long while until finally he broke the silence. 
Usagi?
She shook herself from her stupor.
Sorry. I guess I should try to explain but I dont think I can or maybe its 
best that I dont. She turned up her nose, a bit frustrated at not being able 
to get out what she really wanted to say.
His brow furrowed in confusion, a slight reflection of her expression.
I know it all seems ridiculous with me standing here in front off you like 
this, after what happened last night but all I can say is Im really sorry I ran 
out on you and ruined everything.
He was silent for a moment as if trying to decide whether to accept her less 
than satisfactory explanation. 
So did you find him?
Huh?
Endymion; did you find him?
Usagi flushed red, hoping he didnt take note of the bruise on her neck.
She wasnt sure if it was the bruise or her face that told him the truth. I 
take it you did, he stated simply and she nodded, turning an even deeper shade 
of red than she thought possible.
The silence between them became extremely uncomfortable and she could feel a 
chasm between them that hadnt been there before. She felt like the worlds 
greatest ass or perhaps it was a slut she thought of but refused to even 
acknowledge. She had run out on one man to indulge in the passionate embraces of 
another. 
She inhaled deeply and let it out in an attempt to steel herself against 
whatever words happened to leave her lips. She wouldnt even begin to know what 
she would say until the words were spoken aloud.
Look, Hisahiko, she began twisting her fingers nervously. I like you, which 
is why I probably shouldnt have accepted last nights date. I tried to deny it 
for a long time, longer than you can imagine, but I am in love with someone 
else. I am really sorry about last night and I think that under other 
circumstances we might have had a chance but There was really nothing more to 
say and she looked up at him but had no clue what he was thinking he seemed to 
be just looking at her face. 
Well I guess I should go. She walked past him towards the cash register but 
he grabbed hold of her arm as she walked past. 
Im kind of disappointed, he said with a suitably disappointed expression. I 
I just hope he appreciates what a great person you are. I suppose Ill see you 
around school, perhaps we could even be friends?
Usagi nodded. She was tempted to say that he wouldnt be seeing her, that they 
wouldnt be friends, that this might be the last time he ever saw her, but she 
didnt. 
She walked to the cash register, paid for the paper and a pen and left. 
She paused outside the store for a moment, thinking of where she could go to 
write the letter. She immediately thought of the arcade. She glanced at her 
watch. It was still early, none of her friends would be up this early and out at 
their favorite gathering place on a weekend, even though she had a sneaking 
suspicion Amy might be awake in bed reading some book or the other. 
That brought on a wistful thought of her friend. She could easily see Ami 
reading one of her dog-eared romance novels that she thought no one knew she 
owned. Having stolen one from her apartment, Usagi knew well that every once in 
a while, however rare, Ami took a break from studying to read something more 
interesting.
There was just so much she would miss. 
Not too long later she walked into the arcade and was immediately greeted by a 
surprised Motoki. She watched with mild amusement as he checked his wristwatch 
and then looked up at the large clock behind the counter before checking his 
watch a second time. 
Usagi! Youre up early he greeted, with an undeniably surprised look.
She nodded, not quite ready to speak aloud. 
Is there something wrong? Motoki questioned, frowning at the unrecognizable 
expression on her face. He hadnt seen her in a while but shed always been more 
exuberant than this. As long as hed known her shed never been up on a weekend 
before midday and shed never seemed as serious as she did now.
She shook her head in negation, but if asked to testify in court he could swear 
she was lying and that she was holding back tears.
Then why arent you talking to me?
To his surprise and consternation her lips quivered but she said nothing. 
Instead she just about flung herself at him and hugged him tightly. He was 
baffled but held her close, rubbing her back as her tears soaked his shirt. 
They stood that way for a long time.
To his surprise when eventually her sniffles died away she pulled away from him 
and smiled. 
He raised a questioning eyebrow. 
She sniffled, smiling with a little embarrassment as she eyed the wet spot on 
his dusky red shirt. 
Sorry I made a mess on your shirt.
He shrugged it off as inconsequential. Care to tell me what that was about?
I just realized how much Im going to miss you and this place and all my 
friends.
Going somewhere?
Something like that.
What do you mean?
Im leaving, she replied simply.
Where to? Are you moving away?
How did she answer that question and sound reasonable? Im getting married? Im 
moving to a new dimension? Nothing sounded plausible so she came up with a lie.
Im going away to school.
Wow!
She hated lying but she had good reason like shed had all the times shed lied 
before. 
Where to? 
Some private school in America, I havent even looked closely at the name. I 
think its in Connecticut she said nonchalantly, pronouncing the name carefully 
of the unfamiliar place shed seen in one of the brochures. Unfortunately she 
couldnt remember the name of the school at the moment but it had been the first 
one to come to her mind. 
Wow, he repeated in surprise. Thats amazing. Youre going away to another 
country without your family and friends?
Way to make it easier for me Motoki, she teased. 
Sorry. Im just surprised. I just didnt think youd ever leave your friends to 
go to school. Its something of a shock.
I know, she whispered sadly. I dont really want to leave them either, but 
this is important to me and I need to do this. Its not like Ill never see them 
again.
Yeah I suppose so, he said thoughtfully. Therell be vacations and holidays.
Usagi winced. There would be neither of those, but she supposed shed have to 
make an effort to see them.
Well I have a letter to write, so Im going to go sit.
Do you want anything? he asked.
She thought for a moment and decided she might never have another chance. 
Burger, fries and a milkshake, she announced with a smile. 
Motoki grinned at the familiarity of the order. Be ready in a few, he replied.
 
Usagi sat in an empty booth. The place was nearly empty. It had only just opened 
and most of its youthful patrons were still abed. It occurred to her now that 
Motoki was probably doing her favor by firing up the grill this early. Normal 
people ate breakfast at this time of the day. 
She chewed on the end of her pen as she stared at the blue pad. How would she 
begin? What would she say? How could anything she wrote be enough to counter the 
inevitable disappointment and sense of betrayal she knew her friends would feel? 

She started writing, not really thinking so much as letting all her feelings 
flow unto the paper:
First let me say that Im sorry, not for what Im about to do, but for the 
effects it will have on you. I can only hope you will someday understand my 
decision and hate me less. That is, Id rather you not hate me at all, but if 
you do, I understand.
She paused and stared out the window. The city was beginning to come alive. She 
turned her attention back to her writing, momentarily stuck. She needed to 
finish before the world woke up and she was forced to deal with her problems in 
person.
Im leaving to be with Endymion. I went on a date last night with someone else 
and it made me realize that for weeks now Ive been fighting what I think even 
you already knew. I love him more than even I could ever imagine. I know it 
seems sudden, thoughtless, and reckless and maybe it is but I have to do this. I 
have to know that I followed my heart even if it ends in disaster, (and it wont 
because he loves me as much as I love him) because I didnt take this chance 
before.
Last time I chose duty over love. Its a rare thing to get to undo your 
mistakes well I cant say with total confidence it was a mistake. Perhaps duty 
had its time and now is the time to give us a chance. 
I know this decision is selfish on so many levels but I know with all confidence 
that you will be ok without me. In a way I feel like Im giving up a piece of my 
heart to gain another but I want you to know that in my heart Ill never really 
leave you guys. 
Maybe I wont be there physically but youll always be in my heart. Its the 
reason Im writing this letter, because I couldnt stand to see your faces and 
tell you goodbye all at once. So I just wont. This is officially NOT a goodbye 
letter. Ive said one goodbye, to my parents and it was the most painful thing 
Ive ever done. I wont do it again. 
Ill just have to say Ill see you again someday. I promise.
 
Love, Always
Usagi
 
Ps. Rei, Makoto, dont get it into your heads that Im being coerced or that my 
decisions cant be trusted. This is really what I want. 
 
Usagi looked up from her writing. Some of the younger kids, her brothers age 
and a few older ones had already began to come into the arcade. She hadnt 
realized so much time had passed. It had taken quite a while to carefully decide 
on each word and shed crossed out so many words that the page had been a mess 
and shed been forced to rewrite it all and then shed gotten oil from her fries 
all over that sheet and shed had to rewrite yet again.
Shed thought the letter would have been longer, that there was more to be said, 
but when shed begun to write she realized making excuses, for her choice, 
trying to commit every memory of her times with her friends to paper, was 
unnecessary. She knew what she wanted and they remembered the wonderful moments 
theyd shared just as well as she did. And this wouldnt be goodbye, she 
promised herself. 
She gulped down the last of her milkshake and tried to decide where to leave the 
note. Could she trust Motoki not to read it if she gave it to him to give one of 
the girls? 
She folded the letter carefully and strolled over to the counter. Motoki gave 
her immediate attention as the arcade and restaurant was still relatively quiet 
and he had few customers. 
Could you do me a favor Motoki?
Sure. What is it?
If any of my friends come in here could you give this to one of them? You know, 
Ami, Makoto, Rei or Minako. Anyone will do.
He gave her a curious, questioning look. 
Dont you think it would be easier to give it to them yourself?
She didnt attempt to explain. Instead she gave him a wide innocent smile, the 
likes of which he hadnt seen in a long time. It was the kind of bright smile 
that was utterly disarming and he couldnt help but smile in return. 
Please? it was such a winning expression he couldnt help but grin and nod. 
Im going to miss you Usagi, he stated. You were definitely one of my more 
delightful customers.
Im going to miss you too Motoki.
I hope this new school is good for you.
I know it will be, she answered, referring to life with Endymion instead of 
the lie shed invented for Motokis benefit. 
She was surprised when Motoki kissed her lightly on the forehead. 
Good luck Usagi, he wished as she waved a goodbye. 
She would miss him too. Shed had a crush on him since shed been old enough to 
understand the concept. Somehow the childish desire to shower him with kisses on 
a daily basis had faded somewhat when the stress level in her life had 
increased. But strangely, it felt good to be reminded of all that now. 
 
Usagi wandered the city aimlessly for a while hoping she wouldnt run into 
anyone. She familiarized herself again with the sights of the city, burning them 
into her memory permanently. She thought briefly that she probably shouldnt 
look so wistfully upon all the things she would miss and she forcibly pushed 
away her nostalgic thoughts. It was better to focus on the peaceful emerald 
green hills covered with enormous forests, in that world where dusky blue 
mountains rose to touch the sky and colorful birds flew overhead.
There was something exciting about a whole new world, untouched by the 
industrialism that seemed to be the very foundation of her own world. Endymions 
world was even more innocent and new in many ways than that of even the Silver 
millennium. She had to admit that although the very thought of venturing into 
something so very different from anything shed ever known scared her; but part 
of her reveled in the idea. It would just be her and Endymion facing all the 
trials that life would toss at them and she knew innately that with him beside 
her she would be o.k.
She was scared of being responsible. She was wary of facing and being Queen to a 
group of people who had been through so much pain. She was scared of having to 
grow up but life hadnt given her a choice before at least this one would be 
hers. 
She walked until her feet ached. She knew it was time. The sun was high overhead 
now. She looked around for the watchful and curious eyes of passersby before 
entering a quiet side street. She glanced around, as much to make sure she was 
alone, as to catch a final glimpse of the city that had once been her home. She 
pressed herself up against the cool wall of the building, took a deep breath, 
gathering the enormous amount of power it required, concentrated hard and 
disappeared.
 
Ami! Get over here now?
Where is here and why? Ami whispered, instantly worried at the sound of Reis 
anxious voice over her communicator. Shed gone to the library early in the 
morning to return her books and get more just so that she could have the rest of 
the day free for the social demands of her friends. But no one had searched her 
out so she had gotten lost in a book and before shed known it hours had passed 
and midday had come and gone. 
Im at the arcade. Something terrible has happened
Was there an attack? Ami replied hurriedly, trying her best to remain calm. 
No. Usagis gone!
Gone?
Yes, gone, Rei snapped back, with an expression on her face that curiously 
resembled panic. 
Gone where?
I dont know. Just get over here already!
Ami sighed and snapped the over of the small communicator shut. It wasnt that 
she wasnt concerned. In fact she breathed something of a sigh of relief when 
Rei said there was no attack. The idea of Usagi being gone, however, for some 
odd reason did not panic her.
Recently Usagi had been so different, so adult. If something had happened she 
could take care of herself. More importantly though, she didnt get this sense 
of danger or urgency, not that that should have really meant anything, but 
instinct did account for something. It was nave to deny the possibility that 
humans maintained some of their primal instincts. 
It was entirely possible that Rei was overreacting to Usagi taking some time out 
to be alone. She had a lot on her mind after all and she hadnt seemed to be the 
type of girl who ran for a shoulder to cry on every time something went wrong. 
not anymore anyway. Besides, Rei was always a bit melodramatic, particularly 
when it came to Usagi.
Ami packed up her things and actually took the time out to check out the books 
she had gathered before she left the library. She thought amusedly with a 
twisted bit of inner humor that there was technically no rush. If Usagi were 
really missing then shed have to be gone at least twenty-four hours before the 
police could do anything about it. And if not the police, then it would take 
them at least just as long to get the slightest clue where she could have gone. 
 
I cant believe shed do something like this! Rei snapped. And where the hell 
is Ami? Youd think when I told her our best friend and princess disappeared off 
the face of the earth shed get here a little bit sooner.
Rei was actually pacing the aisle by the booths but not for long because Makoto, 
who had been rushed from her breakfast/lunch, grabbed her arm and pulled her 
down roughly into the cushiony chair. 
Say Princess a little louder why dont you? Makoto snapped. 
Well chances are people will just think shes insane or in love with Usagi, 
Minako pointed out. Im leaning towards insane.
Minako actually leaned back in her seat away from Rei who sat across from her, 
when the priestess actually growled at her. If the situation werent so serious 
she might have been laughing loudly. But Usagi really was gone.
Ami walked in just then and Minako was secretly thankful. Ami always had a way 
of making everyone around her calmer. 
Ami looked over at the tense group of three as she walked in. She couldnt quite 
decipher the meaning behind their expressions. Across the room, Andrew kept 
looking over at the group with a curious expression on his face.
Im here, Ami announced as she slid into the booth next to Minako.
Makoto slid Usagis letter across the table and they allowed her to read what 
they had already read earlier. Amis eyes went wide at the words that seemed to 
be written in Usagis neatest handwriting. 
She really was gone. Ami could hardly believe it and the constant nagging 
question of why sang loudly in her head. From the little that she knew of 
Endymion, he was controlling, dangerous, and manipulative. Usagi might not have 
been a member of MENSA but certainly she knew better than to go back into what 
seemed to be a less than healthy relationship with a man whose current status 
was far from definable particularly on the subject of morality and whose 
character was very much in question. The image of him holding Usagi against him 
and touching her came to mind and once again the question of why came back.
How could she trust him? Was love really that blind? Ami had never been angrier 
with her friend or more scared for her in her life.
How could she do something so stupid!? Ami snapped out loud, surprising her 
friends. 
Finally! Rei agreed, equally vehement; someone who sees logic.
Endymion is completely untrustworthy, possibly dangerous Amis rant faded a 
bit but Rei picked up right where she left off.
Not to mention that shes completely neglecting her duties. How exactly does 
she expect us to fight without her? A needling little memory pushed forth from 
the back of her mind reminding her of the words shed said to Usagi only a few 
weeks ago. When Usagi had questioned what would occur should something happen to 
one of them and she had replied: Then the rest will keep fighting Funny how 
much easier it was to say it when it hadnt actually happened. She shoved the 
thought aside.
Minako intruded on her rant. Maybe we should just have some faith that she 
knows what shes doing.
Her track record for making good decisions isnt all that great, Rei snapped 
back. 
Guys she is our princess dont you think we should trust her? Makoto defended.
How can we trust a decision that takes her protection out of the hands of the 
people whose very destiny is to guard her safety, and places it in the hands of 
a man we know nothing about, have no reason to trust, and we have no idea what 
he plans to do or where hes taken her, Ami stated in a restrained tone. We 
are powerless to do anything if the decision she made is the wrong one. She has 
done the ultimate. Shes out of sight, out of reach and very nearly defenseless. 
We wont even know if anything goes wrong.
Everyone was silent as they truly came to terms with the enormity of Usagis 
choice. Had she realized as much when shed made it. Had she even weighed the 
consequences of her actions? 
I guess, for once, well just have to trust her, Makoto said quietly
 
 
Welcome back, a voice whispered in her ear as the room steadied before her. 
She leaned back knowing he would catch her. She was tired. In the past two days 
she had expended so much energy all she wanted to do was sleep.
Youre tired, he stated knowingly.
She sighed quietly in response. Im all yours, she whispered. 
As you should be. He lifted her easily and returned her to the bed. He lay 
beside her for a moment. I have some things to take care of but Ill be back 
later. Sleep for now and Ill wake you later and well talk.
Ok, she conceded. Only moments later she fell asleep and he left the room 
quietly.
 
Usagi woke up to the sensation of being watched. When she opened her eyes, she 
was immediately faced with Endymions eyes staring down at her.
Hi, she whispered casually. He chuckled a bit before rolling away and off the 
bed. She sat up and looked around. The curtains had remained open since hed 
pulled them aside earlier that morning and the sun was beginning to set. She 
guessed that shed been sleeping for about five or six hours. 
I brought you something, he announced.
Is it edible?
Not unless you happen to like eating cloth.
I just might. I could eat anything at this point.
Then I suppose its a good thing that I brought some food as well. He gestured 
to the side of the bed where a large tray of bread, fruit, and cheeses sat on a 
small table. She immediately headed towards it.
Youre the only woman Ive ever known who thinks of food first and clothing 
next.
I have my priorities straight, she replied. 
I agree. I would think youd like to see this however.
Curiosity aroused, she grabbed a bunch of grapes and walked over to where he 
stood across the room. In his hands he held a heavy gown. She immediately 
recognized the style as one of the old Earth Kingdom. It was beautiful. 
She touched the richly embroidered fabric, feeling the dark raised flowers and 
vines in the silky red material. The edges were trimmed in dark red satin and 
the belt that resembled a textured obi would wrap her waist beneath her breasts 
was made of rows of dark red silky braided ropes. Over the chair rested the 
white embroidered cotton shift that she would wear beneath the heavy embroidered 
gown that was cut quite unlike anything else shed ever owned or worn.
It had wide-open sleeves like a kimono and a wide low neckline that allowed the 
top of the shift to peek above it and show off a good deal of cleavage. Halfway 
down the front of the gown opened once again to show the shift beneath. 
How did you get this? she questioned. Certainly a gown from that long 
forgotten time couldnt have survived this long.
Its a replica of my mothers wedding gown. I found a remnant of the fabric in 
a trunk. I had it reproduced. Its not exact but its close. 
Its beautiful, she whispered in awe.
He said nothing but she could see he was enormously pleased.
She had only seen one similar to it before. Once, when shed stolen a moment 
away from the moon to be with Endymion, shed found him in the midst of 
preparations to attend the wedding of a relative. Shed hidden and watched as 
the bride and groom completed the bonding ceremony and shed been awed by it. It 
was a solemn ceremony, as Earth weddings usually were, but the brides outfit 
was a bright celebratory blue-green that matched the grooms sash. It was 
nothing like the few wedding ceremonies shed been privileged to attend anywhere 
else. 
As the Moon Kingdom had set trends in all areas for the rest of the solar 
system, white had been the popular color for bride, groom, and guests alike. It 
was beautiful in its own way but it had none of the spirit and vibrancy of an 
Earth wedding. The solemnity of the ceremony of course gave way to a lively 
party filled with music, laughter, and life and shed wished she could have been 
a part of that. Now was her chance to experience that and she pushed away the 
needling thought that her friends should be here for this
I was hoping you would like it. I wasnt sure if youd want to do a traditional 
Moon Kingdom wedding and Im not particularly familiar with the current 
practices. I was hoping well I thought that perhaps well I probably should 
ask 
Usagi was stunned. This he was insecure about? It was charming, utterly 
disarming, and almost unbelievable. It was so incongruous with the overall image 
he presented. She couldnt help but smile.
Would a traditional Earth ceremony be ok with you? He finally got out.
Usagi grinned widely. Of course. I remember when your cousin got married. It 
was wonderful. Its exactly what I want.
He looked enormously relieved. 
We can do the bonding tomorrow He stated simply.
Tomorrow! she very nearly screeched in surprise. It was all happening so fast. 

Is it too soon? He asked. 
I just thought that Id have time to prepare, to meet people and see things. I 
cant be a queen tomorrow. I need to know things about the people who are here 
about my duties. What if the gown doesnt fit or I cant walk in it? If I trip 
and fall on my face everyone will hate me
Relax, Rena, he placated. Im not asking you to be a queen tomorrow. Tomorrow 
is for us. The coronation can wait until youre ready.
But this is an important day. I want everything to be perfect.
And it will be. Things are being prepared as we speak.
She sighed inaudibly. Things were moving so fast, changing in a dozen different 
ways. Was it just yesterday that she had been getting ready for a date with 
Hisahiko? It seemed like days, perhaps even weeks since yesterday. How did her 
life change so much? 
She remembered a few months ago she had been lying on the floor of Reis room 
giggling like a little girl with her friends. Everything had been so simple, 
well as compared to the way things were now anyway. Now she was getting married. 
It was insane. In the failure of any other of reaction, she laughed.
What do you find so amusing? Endymion asked.
This is all so insane. Im getting married! She laughed a bit more. It wasnt 
a laugh filled with humor. It was a little nervous, a tone higher than was 
normal for her and dosed with a healthy amount of fear. 
He looked at her with a somewhat questioning expression on his face, but said 
nothing. 
So, try it on, he commanded after a short while. 
She turned her back to him for a moment before turning around with and imperious 
expression on her face. 
Get out! she demanded, as though she were talking to the lowest servant she 
could imagine. 
Excuse me? he sat up on his elbows looking up at her.
Im going to try on this gown.
Im not stopping you. He leaned back in a relaxing pose and waited. Of course 
any opportunity to see her naked was a good one. She rolled her eyes.
There is a tradition, a modern one. The groom shouldnt see the bride before 
the wedding or in her wedding gown.
Its too late for both, he responded. Im looking at you now and Ive seen 
the dress.
But you havent seen me in it, so out with you.
He got up from the floor agilely and kissed her on the forehead. Im coming 
back. Dont think you can keep me out of this room for much longer. Your 
tradition is insane.
Youre insane, she muttered. Less than a day to prepare for the most 
important day in my life.
Think of it as your first lesson in being a queen, he encouraged as he walked 
out the door. You should be prepared for anything.
Fortunately he missed a sudden burst of immaturity as she stuck her tongue out 
at his back.
Usagi tried on the gown with a bit of difficulty. It was something she would 
need help getting into tomorrow. She managed to get it on after some struggle 
and was surprised it fit so well. Apparently when Endymion had the gown 
replicated he had her in mind. The thought made her smile.
Just thinking about his name with the title husband attached made her grin. She 
looked down at her chest and was stunned at the amount of cleavage the low 
neckline exposed; the high braided rope waist had pushed them up for notice. She 
didnt know she had that much available for viewing. She almost wanted to call 
him back to the room to see the look on his face but she supposed she could be 
patient and wait for tomorrow.
She wanted to do a twirl but the narrow skirt with its longer back hem told her 
she was more than likely to trip if she tried. She raised her arms to check how 
well it moved and the long heavy wide sleeves that covered her arms came sliding 
down. She loved it. It was beautiful. 
 
Usagi awoke to bright light streaming in through wide-open curtains and her 
fiance was nowhere to be seen. He had slept beside her last night but the space 
beside her was now cold. She sat up and frowned. 
The confused expression was fleeting and quickly replaced with one of complete 
surprise. How had she not noticed the single red rose beside her head on the 
pillow? But that was the least of the grandeur her eyes faced as she looked 
around the room. It seemed every surface was covered in a rose of some kind in 
an enormous variety of colors and species. 
Somewhere amidst the jungle of roses was a woman standing patiently as if 
waiting for her to do something. She pulled the sheets up hurriedly covering her 
nudity, her entire skin surface flushed red. 
No need to be embarrassed your highness, a soft motherly voice said hurriedly. 
Im here to help you prepare for the ceremonies. 
Usagi grinned widely. Yes, today was to be the happiest day of her life. 
There is much to be done, the woman continued. First we must go to the baths 
and then theres the offering to the Great Spirit and well have to skip the 
offering to the parents since
Usagi frowned slightly. It was a shame they wouldnt be here for this day. 
The woman walked over to the bed and grabbed her by the hand pulling her out of 
bed and placing a robe around her shoulders. Usagi forced all sad thoughts 
aside, determined to forget anything that could mar this day. 
The first thing on the days itinerary was a bath. She was a bit unnerved at 
being attended by the three women who poured hot water and sweet oils into the 
large pool that was nested in the marble floor of a room right next to 
Endymions. The surface of the water was littered with red and white rose petals 
and she settled into the warm bath, luxuriating in the rich fragrances.
Three hours later when she was somewhat wrinkled, but well dried by a maid who 
had turned her skin a bright shade of red with her rubbing with the towels, and 
her hair had been brushed, her nails clipped and polished and her body 
thoroughly massaged, she was then dressed in white robes and brought to the 
temple, which although somewhat in ruins, retained a lot of its beauty. In order 
to get to the temple, which was separated from the main building of the palace 
she had had to walk quite a distance through ruined corridors, passing by 
passageways that were less than safe. It saddened her how so much of the 
buildings beauty had been ruined by war, neglect and time. One of the women 
escorting her explained that repairs were underway but the workers attention had 
been diverted to the preparations for her wedding. No one would give her a clue 
as to what the ceremonies would be like however.
At the temple she kneeled before a great pool of water that shimmered a dark 
green in the dim light of the large room, in the center of which a fire burned 
brightly, the flames reflecting a brilliant red in the water. Across from her, 
on the opposite side of the pool Endymion kneeled, dressed in similar white 
robes. Despite the solemnity of the occasion he sent a small smile her way, 
which she returned. She couldnt help staring at his still features, cast in 
harsh light by the flickering of the flames that danced in his eyes. She looked 
away only momentarily when Endymion closed his eyes and a man in red robes, 
possibly the last and only priest of ancient Earth came out from the dark 
recesses at the back of the temple and began a rather dramatic recitation of the 
old prayers in a tongue so ancient she wondered if Endymion even understood 
them. She peered across at him but his eyes were closed in prayer and 
embarrassed by her inability to keep her eyes from wandering to him, she quickly 
closed her own. 
With neither of their parents present to complete what would have been the final 
ceremony before the actual wedding, she had time to herself when the prayers 
ended and she was disappointingly separated from Endymion who had more details 
of the day to attend to. She was advised to take a nap as the ceremony and 
festivities would last well into the night. Neglecting that advice however, she 
tentatively stepped out unto the balcony of the room she and Endymion shared. 
She was hoping to catch a glimpse of all the preparations but nothing seemed to 
have changed since the last time she checked. It seemed whatever was happening 
was on an entirely different side of the palace she had yet to see. She stepped 
back inside reconsidering the suggestion of a nap. She couldnt see herself 
falling asleep however, with all the excitement. She lay back on the bed looking 
up at the high ceiling. Her eyes traced the ridges of the arches above her and 
before she knew it her eyes closed and she was fast asleep. 
The next thing she was aware of was a warm hand shaking her. She opened her eyes 
to the sight of the same woman, who had awakened her earlier that morning. It 
was time to get dressed. 
She got out of bed for the second time but with a great deal more apprehension 
than before. This morning shed been overwhelmed by the romance and caught up in 
the small details of her preparation, enjoying the luxuries of being a bride. 
Somehow her nap had managed to shed a new light on everything and the rising 
nervousness within her was quickly turning into fear that had her wringing her 
hands so hard, they were red from her abuse.
She managed to calm herself for the first moments of her preparation but she 
only just got hold of herself before she began hyperventilating. She sucked in a 
deep breath as Ktel, the woman whod awakened her, began tightening the 
closures on the back of the gown. She was trying hard to calm herself down as 
she realized that at the end of the day her life would be changed forever and 
there would be no going back. The firm closures that had before seemed to brace 
her, supporting her breasts suddenly felt like chains. 
Her eyes were lined with Kohl that made them seem even bluer. Her lips were 
painted a deep red and her skin shimmered with a lotion that made her seem 
flawless. She looked amazing, so unlike herself. She let out the breath she 
realized she was holding but it didnt help. She pushed Ktel away and rushed 
towards the balcony in a wild attempt to get some air.
I cant do this, she whispered. I cant get married. Im sixteen, I know 
nothing about anything, and Ive barely lived!
Your highness! Ktel screeched out of concern to see her mistress on the 
balcony, that was less than safe, as well as alarm over her explanations.
Usagi whipped around, a hysterical look on her face. I cant get married, she 
shrieked. I love him but Im not ready. I dont know if Ill ever be ready but 
Im certainly not ready today!
Please come inside your highness Ktel pleaded.
Dont call me that, Usagi snapped ironically regal-sounding. Im not a queen. 
I cant be a queen. Im just a stupid girl.
Ktel saw there would be little reasoning with her. A good deal of time had 
already passed. She had woken her somewhat hesitantly to get dressed. It was 
after all the brides prerogative to be late on this of all days. Now she could 
only hope she could get the prince here in time to convince her before the time 
for the ceremonies began. She rushed out of the room and down the halls.
 
When Endymion came into the room, he found his bride sitting in the middle of 
the large bed staring blankly at the wall. He had had little time to sort out 
his reaction to the news that his bride refused to take the vows with him. He 
had been certain hed allayed her concerns yesterday. Obviously hed been 
mistaken.
He stood across the room examining her without a single notice from her of his 
presence. The anger he felt, not towards her as much as the situation melted 
away with a sigh. She was scared, understandably. He was more than a little 
nervous himself. But unlike her, hed been dreaming of this moment for a long 
time. Hed had time to plan every move, to examine the details in his dreams. 
Hed secretly known hed loved her before she had even been aware of his 
presence. It had taken a while to admit it to himself and acknowledge theat he 
wanted to spend eternity with her; it had been even more difficult to admit it 
to her but time had always been on his side. Hed given her a day.
He walked across the room and sat down behind her. She hadnt acknowledged his 
presence as he walked towards her but now as he placed his hands on her 
shoulder, caressing them encouragingly, she seemed to collapse against him. He 
held her close, planting a kiss on the curve of her neck as he wrapped his arms 
tightly around her small waist. 
Im sorry she whispered. I dont think Im ready to do this. Are you mad at 
me?
She sounded so young and childlike. It reminded him that in this life she was a 
mere sixteen years of age. Of course she was scared. She was committing her 
entire life from this point to him and of course the people that came with him.
Is it me or is it everything else?
She sniffled a little. I love you.
But you dont love it here?
No, yes, I mean. I do like it here but I dont know if Im ready for this. I 
thought I wanted to be a bride, a wife, and I still do but I dont think Im 
ready. I always dreamed of being a wife, of being able to do all the things my 
mother does for my father and I have never been able to get any of that right 
but I had hoped that with time Id get better at it, that Id be more 
responsible, and smarter, and be able to do all those things. 
I thought when you asked me to marry you that the things Id been taught when I 
was a princess would make all the difference but they dont. I wasnt taught to 
be a wife, I was taught to be a Queen and to be honest my training is 
incomplete. No one ever dreamed it would all come to an end so quickly. 
He kissed her lightly again, this time on her ear. I want you to believe me 
when I tell you this. Accept every word I say without argument.
His tone suggested this was a command rather than a suggestion, no matter how 
calmly and softly the words were said.
I expect nothing of you. That is, I expect nothing but your complete love and 
undying devotion.
Usagi frowned. Undying devotion?
Never mind the ridiculous phrasing. Its the meaning that is important. I dont 
need you to cook me dinner and iron my clothes, or whatever else your modern 
wives do. I dont expect you to rule my kingdom and make it into a paradise 
overnight or turn this place into palatial bliss. All I want is for you to be 
happy with me and for us to be together. That is the only purpose of this day 
and nothing else.
Can you do that?
She was silent for a moment. I already do that.
Then you are far more prepared for this day than you think.
A small smile spread across her lips. 
I think that maybe I didnt give you enough time and Im sorry. I suppose Im a 
bit more excited and anxious than I thought. Im still hoping that youll marry 
me though. The last was said with a bit of tentativeness and a dose of hope. 
It would be a blow to my ego if I have to seduce you in order to convince you 
that all will be well, but Im quite willing to do what I must, he stated in a 
self-sacrificing tone that inspired a grin on her face.
She turned around to face him, a more serious expression on her face. I 
wouldnt want you to sink to such improper means. I shouldnt allow you to 
pander yourself in that manner. I will marry you, if only to save you from 
yourself.
It is good to marrying a woman so concerned with the welfare of my eternal 
spirit, he said dryly.
One of us must be, she replied with a smile. How was it that everything seemed 
so much easier now that he was here? Somehow his presence had pushed aside the 
little voice that said that beginning this way with neither friends nor family 
to encourage and give their blessing was an inauspicious way to start a life 
together.
He rose from the bed an offered her his hand. 
Well lets get married then, he announced.
But my hair she began, lifting her locks that hung loosely down her back and 
had not yet been attended to.
Is beautiful, he finished for her. 
Usagi looked up at him skeptically. 
He ran his hands lightly through the long loose waves of silky blonde hair 
appreciatively. I like it.
He held out his hand for her and she placed her smaller palm in his and they 
walked out the door together.
Usagi gasped as they walked out into the gardens on the side of the palace she 
had not yet seen. She stepped out on a grassy area and was immediately assailed 
with fragrances of a variety of flowers. The strong scent of roses, lilacs and 
hyacinth hung in the balmy air. The pathway to where only a few people stood 
around a bubbling waterfall was littered with flower petals. And the garden was 
a mixture of a wild disarray of flowers and well-tended flowerbeds and pruned 
trees. The scene was almost unreal. Everything was too lush and perfect to be 
real. Before the fountain was a small tent-like gazebo, beyond which, in the 
distance was the ocean and the sun hung like a fiery glow, low in the sky. It 
was the very beginning of sunset and violets, and pinks had already begun to 
touch the sky. It was stunning. 
She was surprised by the small number of guests awaiting her. She had expected a 
much larger gathering. This was far less intimidating however, and as she looked 
up to see him smiling down at her, she knew he had anticipated the anxiety a 
larger crowd would have caused and chosen a select group for her comfort. The 
group seemed to consist mainly of people she had yet to meet as well as a few of 
the servants who had attended her earlier. 
Endmyion led her down the path to the waterfall. The sound of the water calmed 
any remaining anxieties she might have had. Before the pool of water at the base 
of the falls were two pillows facing each other. Endymion guided her to one and 
she kneeled while he took the other, kneeling to face her. The same priest who 
had performed the prayers came before them and handed Endymion a bowl of water. 
He sipped and handed her the bowl. She followed his actions, tasting the 
unfamiliar liquid, which was quite obviously something besides water. 
The priest took the bowl from her and to her surprise lit the liquid inside 
which immediately blazed. She immediately remembered that it symbolized the vast 
differences between a couple, like fire and water, and how despite that, they 
joined together in harmony. The priest began to speak again in the same ancient 
language he had before and she obediently bowed her head just as Endymion did. 
To finalize the blessing a small amount of thick red liquid was poured on their 
heads and a dagger was used to knick both their palms and they pressed them 
together to finalize their joining. 
All through the ceremony Usagi felt dazed and a bit overwhelmed by the solemn 
spirituality of the ceremonies. She barely realized its completion as they 
stood together and he pulled her close to him, and covered her mouth with his 
own for a kiss that seemed a little too long and passionate to be appropriate in 
front of all these people. She barely realized the cheers that went up around 
them. When the kiss ended and she stood staring into his dark blue eyes that 
seemed glazed with a need and a possession she recognized. She bit her lips 
hard, as she was immediately struck by the realization that they were married, 
this was her husband and she had never been more happy or terrified in her life. 

 
The End. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
