Chapter Text
"Have you ever been in love before, Lena?"
Princess Darlene had been working on the Moon Princess's hair when the question came to her. It was questions like these that helped the young ladies pass the time, especially since the Serenity's hair was a nightmare to work with. Somehow Darlene managed to deal with it. Yet, there was something about the young Princess's question that bothered Darlene.
Love was not an easy topic for the Princess of Venus. Despite being born of the planet of love, Darlene herself wasn't so lucky when it came to love. She had many suitors who wanted her hand in marriage but Darlene refused all of them. Even her own Mother, Queen Aphrodite, had tried to help her - though Aphrodite's definition of the word 'help' meant that arranging dates for daughter without said daughters acknowledgement. Even now as she was living on the Moon, her Mother was still sending her letters involving courtships. Darlene loved her Mother but sometimes she could be overbearing.
As Darlene had stated many times before, both to her Mother and to the suitors, her duty comes first. As a member of Princess Serenity's inner court her duty was to protect the Moon Princess, just like her Mother before her. She didn't expect those suitors to understand, after all men don't like it when women were taking over their duties. (Honestly though, if they ever met Princess Aurelia none of them would last a day with her.) But with her Mother she thought she would at least be understanding with her beliefs.
Clearly, she was wrong.
When Aphrodite was younger she had a nasty habit of interfering with other people's love life. It wasn't out of malice, though Aphrodite herself had trouble finding a suitable partner - At one point she was seeing two different people. Of Course, Aphrodite put it down to her wanting to help her people and her friends out. Her friends, however, didn't want Aphrodite's help and had told her multiple times that it wasn't needed.
But, at one point when she was meeting with her fellows Queens, it looked like the redhead Queen was changing for the better. She admitted to her mistakes and vowed to raise her daughter to follow her duty. That's why Darlene thought her Mother would be understanding with her beliefs. For a while Aphrodite made good to her promise. She guided her daughter whenever she was training. But, old habits die hard, and eventually Aphrodite went back into her old habits.
At first it was nothing serious and it didn't bother her. If anything Aphrodite was just telling her about the traditions of there planet. Though She'll never admit it, she had always found the traditions of her planet strange and controversial. Polygamy was practiced on her home planet, it was practiced since the days of Gods and Goddess - though, for a while Polygamy was abolished by the Granddaughter of the Goddess of Love. Eventually, the practice came back and was reinstated by her Grandmother.
Honestly, her own family heritage was just as complicated as Serenity's.
Then things changed one day when she found somebody waiting for her in throne room. Aphrodite and her husband, King Andros, told her that he wanted to court her and he was from a noble house. He was handsome with neatly combed light brown hair and sparking blue eye, he was wearing a suit of gold. Though she wasn't happy about it, and she did express her concerns with her parents, she did agree to a date with him. Whilst she did enjoy herself she didn't have any feelings towards him, and that she wasn't ready to fully dive into a proper courtship.
"Darlene, are you alright?"
Darlene blinked. She was so caught up with her own thoughts that she hadn't noticed Serenity looking at her in concern. It was touching, really. Serenity might be forgetful at times, and a bit clumsy, but she did care about her friends. They weren't related by any means but the two of them could easily pass over as Sisters - twin sisters, as Serenity and Darlene were so similar to each other.
"I'm fine." Darlene replied, though she said it more to herself out of assurance. She gave Serenity's hair a once over before she was completely satisfied with it. "There! All done."
Serenity smiled, giving herself the one over as she looked into the mirror. "Thank you, Lena. I swear your a natural when it comes to this."
"I just know how to deal with long hair. Most of the Queens and Princesses on my home planet had trouble with their hair so knowing how to deal with it comes in handy." Darlene replied. "Now then, shall we take our afternoon tea?"
Serenity agreed with her. Despite how unladylike it was, her mouth was always watering with the promise of delicious treats. Darlene smiled at her and guided her to the windows where a table with two chairs waiting for them. Darlene loved Serenity's room, it looked like something out of fairy table.
The walls were pastel pink and on the floor was a white carpet. On the celling was a gold chandelier and the windows were covered by lace curtains. The room was furnished with all the necessities. There was four posted wooden bed with white covers and fully pillows, the bed itself had pale pink lace curtains and wrap around the posts were flowers. There was a large wardrobe, a chest of draws with vases on the top with flowers in them, a white vanity with all of the necessities. Near the doors that lead out to the balcony there was three couches with a table in the middle, that was mostly used whenever Serenity had all of friends in the room. In front of the couches and table was a fireplace.
The Princesses sat down. Darlene picked up the tea pot and started to pour for herself and Serenity, her hands were much more steadier then Serenity's and she could be so clumsy at times. She placed Serenity's tea cup before her, then so reach for hers. She was about to take a sip of her tea when she noticed Serenity staring at her with curiosity.
"You didn't answer my question." Serenity said.
"Oh, right." Darlene said. "No. I have never been in love before. I have been on numerous courtships, thanks to my Mother, but I have never been in love with somebody before."
"You haven't found the right person yet, have you?" Serenity asked.
"No. Its strange, as maiden from Venus and the self proclaimed Goddess of Love, I should be able to find a suitable partner right away. But, no matter what situation I'm in - be it in a courtship or just somebody who I have seen - I feel nothing for that person. There's no connection." Darlene explained as best she could. "I can usually see when people make a good match, I did the same for Aurelia and Cordelia, but no matter what I can't see that for myself."
Darlene smiled weakly. "I might never find somebody to love."
"Don't say that, Lena. I'm sure you'll find somebody." Serenity replied.
"Like you did, you mean." Darlene playfully jibbed. The she turned all serious for a moment. "You know if anybody were to find out that you are in love with Prince Endymion and that you two are seeing each other, the both of you could get in trouble. I know I have been chaperoning these little outings but we have to be careful, Selene."
"I know, Lena, but he's just so handsome. Not to mention wonderful. And he so sweet and charming and..." Serenity said dreamily.
Darlene shook her head. Honestly, Serenity was such a daydreamer. There had been many times where she or her fellow Princesses had tried to 'wake' Serenity from her daydreams. Most of the time it wasn't easy. Serenity had such wonderful thoughts that it was hard to break her out of her daydreams. They had asked her what they were about. She didn't tell them everything, she knew she would be scolded for having such thoughts, but the Moon Princess told them what she had been thinking about.
She had been daydreaming about Earth. What was it truly like down there. What natural beauty awaits down there. What secrets were awaiting down there. Not everybody was happy with such thoughts. Aithne had scolded her even suggesting going down to Earth in the first place. Halimeda told her that she should put her studies first as they were very important. Josephine had the same feelings as her but she was more interested in what vegetation was growing on Earth. Herself? Well, she was split down the middle. She would have liked to see what was done there but at the same time she had to keep Serenity away from Earth. Especially, after the reports she was receiving.
Darlene recalled the first time she went down to Earth. Serenity was meant to be doing mandatory Princess lessons, at the request of her Mother, yet the young Princess never made it to the library. Darlene had a feeling that she had snuck down to Earth again, though this time the feelings was much more stronger. So, after transforming into Sailor Venus, she went down to Earth to look for her wayward Princess.
She could tell why the Princess was so mesmerised by it. The landscape was picturesque. There were flowers blooming everywhere. The skies were cloudless and the sun was shining brightly, she felt the warmth of it on her skin.
Eventually, she found the Princess in the arms of another. The person in question was a young man, perhaps not that much older then Serenity, with black hair and blue eyes. He was wearing a dark blue bodysuit with a navy blue breastplate, a silver piece of armour that protected his waist and lower back with extended pieces to guard his hips. He also had knee-high armoured boots in navy blue and a black cape with red on the inside, the cape was attached to silver shoulder guards. Around his waist was a brown sash, a hilt was connected to the sash which had a sword inside.
That's when she felt it, the same feeling she felt before. It was growing stronger and it was coming from Serenity and this young man. Darlene was trying to deny it but there was no mistaking the connection she felt. They were in love and there was a red string of fate tying them together. And, there would be hell to pay if anybody were to separate them. Which was unfortunate as the people of the Moon and the people of Earth weren't meant to interact with each other, that rule had been instated by Serenity's own Grandmother. The Lunarians were only meant to watch over and protect the people of Earth.
Sailor Venus went over to them. She wasn't going to reprimand them, she was certain Princess Aithne would have if she found them instead. The only thing she was going to do was make sure that Serenity okay, find out who this mysterious person and take her Princess home safely. Serenity had introduced him as Endymion, the crowned Prince of Earth. She had questions for the lovebirds, mostly for Endymion but the Prince didn't seem to mind much. He told her how much he loved her and that he would protect her no matter what. She was honestly a breath of fresh air against the current rabble he had seen before.
Satisfied with the answers she received Sailor Venus, perhaps against her better judgement, decided to allow the lovebirds to keep seeing each other. Of course, there were some conditions that came after. She would chaperone Princess Serenity whenever the two of them wanted to meet, and that she would keep an eye on them from a distance. Both parties were happy with the conditions and after a heartfelt good bye Serenity and Sailor Venus returned to the Moon. For a while they were able to keep it a secret but, eventually, there fellow Princess found out about it. As expected Aithne was the only one who had trouble with it but, after some reasonable words and some careful planning, every agreed that they would take turns chaperoning Serenity and Endymion's meetings.
Darlene was thankful for the others understanding, even if Aithne still had her concerns for the couple. Even now, as she was drinking her tea, she knew better then to try and break the red string of fate. Though she would never express she was envies for the young couple. Her duty would always come first, and her heart would come second. But, just for once, it would be nice if she had somebody who she could love.
"Princess Darlene, your Mother wishes to see you."
Darlene was back on her home planet. She had only been there for a day and she had already put herself back to work. Though breaks like these were uncommon, especially since she would have to go back and forth to Venus and the Moon, she was grateful for a change of scenery. And, she was certain that the Moon Princess would be in good company - today was Princess Josephine turn to escort Serenity and she knew the Princess of Jupiter would pack a picnic basket for her.
She was in her study when was interrupted. Already dressed for the day is her yellow gown, she had been busy going over reports which detailed a slavery operation. She was studying the map before her, trying to find the best spot to ambush the operation that would be on route, when there was knock at her door. She allowed the person to come in and in walked a tall young man she had never seen before. He had white hair and grey eyes, and he was wearing a soldiers uniform. On his forehead, surprisingly, was an all to familiar symbol - a heart shaped symbol with a cross at the bottom in orange.
"Thank you, I'll see her now." Darlene said. She was about to leave the room when she stop in front of him. "Forgive me for my bluntness but who are you? I haven't seen you before."
The man offered her a smile. "Its not trouble at all, My lady. My name is Adonis. I joined your father's guard a few months ago. I believe you were still stationed on the moon when I arrived. "
"I was. I might be the crowned Princess of Venus, but my duty is to Princess Serenity." Darlene replied.
"It must be time consuming then if your there for months on end." Adonis observed.
"Sometimes. I am allowed to come and go as I please, on the condition that one of my fellow Princesses is available to protect her." Darlene told him. "We might be of equal rank but we all look out for each other. I don't mean to speak ill of her but Serenity is in no position to protect herself. She hasn't come into her powers, yet so somebody must be with her at all times in case something were to happened."
"She must be lucky to have somebody like you as her friend." Adonis said. He offered her arm. "Shall we get going, My lady? Your Mother must be waiting for you. And we don't want to keep the Queen of Venus waiting now, do we?"
For a moment she had forgotten about her Mother, though she knew better then to keep her own Mother waiting. She accepted his arm and together they left the room. As strange as it was, especially since the man walking along side was a soldier, she didn't mind his company. Though, if anybody else were to notice the pair they probably would've thought that they were a couple. If that was the case then Darlene would have been quick to dispel any rumours. It was just a friendly gesture - nothing more, nothing less. Adonis was just escorting her to her Mother's chambers.
As they were walking Darlene was making polite conversation with Adonis. It turns out Adonis came from a small family. His Mother had died from an illness a few years ago, but he still had his Father and his Sister. When Darlene asked him why he decided to join the Venusian army he told that whilst his family were doing in terms of money Adonis felt that it was only necessary that he did his fair share. On top of that he had the capabilities of a warrior and he hoped that one day he would be able to fight for the royal family.
Soon they were outside the Queens chambers. Darlene removed her arm from Adonis, to her relief they hadn't been stopped by anybody. Adonis bowed to her and in return Darlene curtsied, after that the soldier left her. The blonde knock on the door and, a few seconds later, she was allowed to come in. Her Mother was sitting behind the desk, on top of it were a few papers and a tea set.
Queen Aphrodite was a beautiful women. She had long red hair and light blue eyes. She was wearing a yellow dress with light orange tulle, around her waist were white flowers. At the top of gown was a pink bow and on top of bow was a heart shaped brooch with her planetary symbol in the middle, underneath the bow were two sets of pink beads. On her arms were long white fingerless gloves with gold bracelets on each arm. On her shoulders were yellow ruffles and around her neck was a pink pearl necklace pendant.
Darlene smiled at her Mother. "You wished to see me, Mother?"
"I did, sweetheart." Her Mother replied. She gestured to the spare seat in front of her. "Please, take a seat. We have urgent matters that need to be discussed."
Darlene did as her Mother asked, though she was worried about what her Mother wanted to tell her. She hoped it wasn't another courtship or a marriage proposal that needed to be deal with swiftly less Venus ends up going to war - though, judging by her Mother tone of voice she could tell that her Mother was troubled by something.
"What's wrong, Mother?" Darlene asked. "You seemed troubled by something."
"I am, sweetheart, and I believe my troubles concern the Moon as well. Much like yourself I can usually sense when people make a good match, or when somebody heart belongs to another. However, this time my senses were directed at Earth." Aphrodite told her.
Darlene tried her best to not let her fears get the best of her. Did her Mother know about Serenity and Endymion forbidden meetings?
"For a while now I have sensed small amount of affection coming from Earth, mostly from the Golden Kingdom. I know that Queen Amaryllis and King Asher have a Son so I thought the affection was coming from him and a lady he was courting." Aphrodite explained. "However, and just as I felt it again not that long ago, the affection started to grow and after a certain amount of time passes the affection dimes and it starts creating a chain. The chain is connection from Earth to the Moon."
Darlene felt her heart freeze. There was no mistaking her Mother's words.
"Y-you know, don't you?" Darlene whispered.
"About Princess Serenity and Prince Endymion? Yes, sweetheart. I do know about there meetings." Aphrodite said. "And, that's why am I concern about it."
"I... I tried to stop it. I tried putting an end to Serenity's wonderings." The blonde Princess said. "If anything I've made it worse."
"Stopping it would've just made her more eager to visit Earth, to visit Endymion. You have done nothing wrong, Darlene. Neither have Serenity and Endymion, though many wouldn't agree with it." The redhead said. "Nobody fight against love."
Darlene was puzzled by her Mother words. How can she be okay with this forbidden love? How can she be okay with her not being able to put a stop to it?
"I don't understand. How are you okay with this? Relation between the Moon and the Earth are forbidden. The Queen's own Mother put that rule into place" Darlene said. "If anybody were to find out about this then it would be disastrous for all of us."
"I understand where you are coming from, Darlene, and you have every right to be concerned. The situation with the rebels on Earth is growing each day and I fear something dangerous would happen if anybody finds out about this." Aphrodite replied. "However, if by some rare miracle the situation with the rebels dies down and nothing disastrous happens, then perhaps Serenity and Endymion can be with each other."
Aphrodite paused for a moment before continuing. "The people of Earth wouldn't be happy with it, and Endymion will have to forsake his title to be with Serenity - that's one worse case scenario. The other I don't want to speak about. However, lets say everybody is okay with this and they allow the marriage to happen, then Serenity and Endymion could bring in a new era. One that would join the Earth and the Moon together."
Well, if her Mother put it like that then perhaps Serenity and Endymion could end up together. They could bring in a new era of peace, perhaps a new dynasty as well. They could make it work, perhaps they could split there time between Earth and the Moon - it wouldn't be ideal at first but they could plan around it. Of course, not everybody would be happy about and there might be some form of protest. That's when she and her fellow guardians come in to deal with the situation before it can escalate further.
"That would be the ideal, that way nobody has to die and we could be at peace again." Darlene observed.
"Must you say it like that, Darlene?" Aphrodite sighed.
"Of course I do. There are too many what if to consider, we have to be careful and consider every possibility that might happen because of this." Darlene replied.
"I suppose your right." Aphrodite agreed, though she didn't like it.
Honestly, Darlene was so much like her Father at times. Andros always considered every possibility when it came to matters of state. He was a overthinker, and that's what Aphrodite loved about her husband. Whenever they were in court he would always listen to both of the argument before giving his observations and the verdict. She would be lost without his wisdom.
Her Daughter was wise to consider every possibility that could happen. Because, if it were to end badly, everything they worked for would be lost.
It had been three days after the meeting with her Mother. Darlene was sitting in a secluded area of the Palaces' gardens, relaxing after the night before. With a small group of her Father's guards, she had managed to stop the slavery job and, whilst the mission had ended successful, Darlene wished she managed to put a stop to it before had even started. But, to do that, Darlene would've had knowledge from inside the operation and she had only received reports detailing the sighting of the group: How many were taken, how many were overseeing the group, what weapons they had.
At least now she could relax. Or, at least try to. Though the Magellan gardens were beautiful, her thoughts were occupied with the conversation she had with her Mother. She had already checked in with the others, mostly with Princess Josephine. She has asked for a full report on the situation with the rebels and, whilst they had simmered down for a while, Darlene couldn't help but wonder if something big was going happen. So far there had only been a few peaceful protest, it was just people spreading propaganda against the Moon. Sadly, neither one of them could deal with it as it would only cause more problems for them. The people of Earth already had their opinions on the Lunarians, if they were to intervene those opinions could become worse and there hatred for the Lunarians would grow.
She was grateful that Serenity and Endymion chose a safe spot for their meetings. She didn't doubt Endymion's words before but it was better to be safe then sorry, especially after what her Mother told her. The next time she was with Serenity she would have to talk to the two of them, perhaps they would arrange to meet in a spot far away from Terra. And, if the situation with the rebels worsened then perhaps she might have to put an end to the meetings - for Serenity safety, of course. She knew neither one of them would like it, and it wouldn't be forever, but if they end up going to war over this then they wouldn't have any other choice.
"Aa penny for your thoughts, my lady?"
Darlene nearly jumped out of her seat. She was about to transform until she noticed Adonis standing close by. He was staring at her with a hint of curiosity, a smile was present on his face. Darlene stared back coldly, almost like she was challenging him to try something. The smile on Adonis's face was dropped and he was now looking at her in concern.
"Forgive me, my lady. I didn't mean to startle you." Adonis apologised.
"Your just lucky I wasn't transformed, or had my love me whip chain out. If I did I doubt you would have lasted long." Darlene remarked.
"I suppose so. Although, I have loved to spare against you, Princess." Adonis replied. "I heard your quite the fighter."
"On this side of the galaxy. Even then I'm only second best to Princess Aurelia." Darlene said. "Is there something you needed Adonis? Or, are you here to tell me I'm needed somewhere?"
"Actually, I was hoping to tell you something." Adonis replied. "There has been something on my mind lately, and I was hoping to talk to you about it."
Darlene raised an eye brow at that, wondering exactly what Adonis wanted to tell her. She gestured to the spare seat next to her, inviting him to seat down. Adonis did just that, taking the seat next to her. He wasn't sitting comfortable. He was shifting ever so slightly. He tried to move his mouth to speak but no words were coming out. Darlene waited for him to talk, even though she was starting to get a little impatient.
"I have to be honest here, Princess. From the moment I saw you I couldn't stop thinking about you. You are the most beautiful young lady in the entire Kingdom, you are more beautiful then your own Mother." Adonis started.
Darlene stared at him in bewildered, wondering where he was going with this.
"If I maybe so bold, Darlene, I was wondering if I could court you. I know I'm only a lonely soldier and I don't have anything to give you, but I do love you, Darlene." Adonis proclaimed. "Your are not just a Princess, your not just another person who lives on this Planet. You are a kind and noble women, you put your life before others. You are the light that guides me, and I'm hoping that same light stays with me now."
It took everything she had to not role her eyes, to not sigh in front of his presence. This wasn't the first time she heard words like these. Of people praising her looks, praising the work she does for her Planet. And for what? In hopes they could court her? Marry her even? In hopes that she would bare their children. She had refused every single time. She didn't love them, she couldn't feel a connection for them. It was just a crush, not love. And what Adonis was projecting was nothing more then a crush. They barely knew each other, and he wanted to court her just like that?
She knew her own worth. And she refused to love somebody who didn't show general affection.
"I'm sorry, Adonis. But, I'll have to declined your proposal." Darlene said.
"My lady..."
"No! Listen to me for a moment. I'm sure you are a wonderful man, Adonis, and you will find somebody who loves you equally. But that person is not me." Darlene told him. "As I told you before my duty comes first."
Adonis turned to face her. He took her hands in his. "Maybe to Princess Serenity but she doesn't need you to care of her. She has three other protectors and even then she takes the four of you for granted. She gets to live a carefree life whilst the rest of you have to suffer. Why not take back what she stole from you? You are a Princess and you say you are of equal rank, but your duty is towards a Princess who keeps running away and forsakes her duty to the Moon."
"Are you suggesting I should forsake my duty for love. For you?" The blonde questioned coldly.
Adonis didn't falter under her gaze. "Yes, my love. You are the Princess of Venus, not a lapdog for Princess Serenity. And, we don't have to live on Venus. We could run away where nobody could find us. I know a place where-"
*Slap*
Adonis flinched at touch. It took him a moment to realise what happened. He touch his left check, it was stinging from the touch. He looked back at Princess Darlene who was standing before him, breathing heavily as she looked at him coldly. He didn't miss the murderous look on her face. Perhaps he had overstepped him bounders.
"How dare you!" Darlene yelled. "How dare you even suggest such a thing! I have told you before my duty is to Princess Serenity, regardless of what you or anybody else thinks. Serenity might be a carefree person but she deserved to be happy in a time of uncertain times, and I will not allow somebody like you to talk ill of her."
"My love..."
Adonis tried to reach out for her again, only for Darlene to slap his hand away.
"Don't call me that. You have done nothing to earn my love, what you are feeling is nothing more than a crush. Besides I have no feelings for you, Adonis." Darlene remarked. "If I want to fall in love with somebody then they should show me how are they feel, not just say pretty words in hopes for my hand in marriage. If you ever try something like that again I will be having words with my Father. Good day, Adonis."
With that said Darlene walked away leaving Adonis to his own devices. Perhaps it was bit too much but it was necessary. She didn't have any feelings for him, certainly not the way he had for her.
It wasn't so long after that encounter with Adonis that Darlene had to return to the Moon, swapping her break for Aithne. As much as she knew she would miss her home planet she was glad to be away from it. Away from Adonis. He had tried to apologise to her, and to correct his mistake. He was so certain that he was in love with her but Darlene refused to listen. It might have been childish, but she refused to listen to a man who wouldn't take no for an answer.
Eventually, it was time to chaperon Serenity down to Earth. Darlene tried to not let her concerns get the best of her. Instead she focused on guiding their ship down to Earth safety the cloaking device was already in place so nobody would be able to detect them approaching Earth. They were meeting Endymion in a town called Maplecrest. The town was north-east from Terra and it was surrounded by the forest. Endymion had some business to take of and it was the perfect place for him and Serenity to meet.
Darlene landed the ship on the outskirts of the forest. After checking on the cloaking device Darlene transformed into Sailor Venus. She picked up the two brown cloaks for her and Princess Serenity and together they left ship and walked into the forest. As they were walking, Venus was in front whilst Serenity was close by her, the town started to become more visible. Sailor Venus had to admit it was a charming little hamlet. There were a few little house all made out of wood, the blonde soldier wondered if they ever had any forest fires, and there were a few shops as well. According to Halimeda the town was built by the hands of Eco warriors, they wanted to get away from the capital and start living of the land.
They found Prince Endymion. But he wasn't alone. He was talking to another man with shoulder length silvery-white hair and blue-grey eyes. His outfit was very similar to Endymion's. He was wearing a grey and white bodysuit with black knee-high armoured boots and a grey cape, the inside of the cap was brown.
"Who is that with Endymion?" Serenity asked.
"I'm not sure, but he seems to know Endymion." Sailor Venus replied. "Stay close."
They walked over to the pair. For once Serenity had to resist the urge to run towards him. Endymion was the first to notice them, the man's eyes follow after. Sailor Venus was trying so hard to not blush as he was staring at her, there was a mixture of curiosity and concern in his eyes. There was something about him that reminded her a of king. He was handsome, there no was denying that, and there was something about his hair that made Venus wonder if it was soft.
Endymion bowed to them. "Greetings, Serenity. You are looking beautiful today. I hope the trip down from the Moon wasn't too stressful."
Serenity curtsied, trying not to blush as she did. "Thank you, Endy. The journey wasn't so bad, I just wished I could've seen you sooner. And your looking wonderful today."
Endymion smiled. Then he turned his attention to Sailor Venus. "Lady Venus, it's been a while. The last time Serenity and I met Lady Jupiter told me that you were returning to home planet for a while. I hope your visit was relaxing, I know its not very often that you or your fellow Soldiers get to visit your home Planet but everybody deserve at break every now and then."
"Its was fine, Endymion. Thank you for you asking." Sailor Venus replied. She then turned her attention to the other man. He was surprising calm about the whole ordeal, he wasn't even bother that he had been left out of the conversation for a while. "And, who's this then? I wasn't informed that you were bring somebody with you."
"Ah. My apologises, Lady Venus. But the decision was such short notice." Endymion apologised. He then gestured to the man next to him. "Princess Serenity, Lady Venus, allow me to introduced Lord Kunzite, knight of purity and affection and commander of the middle Eastern regions. He is the leader of my generals, the Shitennou."
Kunzite bowed to them. "It is an honour to meet you both. Endymion has told me about you both, but stories alone only do so much. Perhaps in time we could get to know ourselves better. I would love to know about the young lady who capture my Prince's heart, and the goddess of love who beauty knows no bounds I'm sure."
It took everything she had inside her to not blush at Kunzite comment, she barely noticed Serenity grinning sheepishly at him. Although she had heard the words before, there was something about the way Kunzite said it. He told her she was beautiful but it wasn't just that. He wanted to get to know her more. Perhaps after they talked he wouldn't underestimate her. After all she wasn't the leader of Serenity's protectors for nothing.
She had barely noticed Endymion talking to Kunzite. The white haired man nodded and handed him a wicker basket, after that Serenity and Endymion walked off together but they were in close range to the general and the soldier. She hadn't mean to but she was staring at his eyes. They were so mysterious and mesmerising, she generally felt some could get lost in them. She wondered what it was like to be held by somebody like Kunzite.
At that moment she gasped. She felt it! She felt a connection for this man, though his end of the connection was smaller then her own. This wasn't right. She had only just met the man and she was falling in love with him. She scolded herself for having such a feeling. Her duty to Serenity must come first, but why was her heart fighting for a man she barely met?
She felt Kunzite touch her shoulder. "Are you alright, Lady Venus?"
"I... I am fine, Lord Kunzite." Sailor Venus replied.
That's when she noticed something. There was something tied around Kunzite's hand. It was very faint and it look a little red. It looked like a red line. She followed it with her eyes and, to her horror, the line went towards her own hand. It was the same line she saw for Aurelia and Cordelia. The same for Serenity and Endymion.
The red string of fate.
The blonde soldier quickly turned away from him. She had hoped he didn't see her blush at the realization. Why was this happening now? Could it be that she and Kunzite were meant to be together?
"Perhaps you should sit down and rest for a moment? It wouldn't do you or your charge no good if you passed out now, would it?" Kunzite suggested.
Sailor Venus nodded, though no words were coming out of her mouth. She went to sit down on a wooden bench close by to them, Kunzite did the same only to make sure that she wouldn't pass out - they were still close to Serenity and Endymion. She tried to calm her breathing. Perhaps she was mistaken and the red line meant something else. She hoped so because now was not the time to fall in love with somebody.
Although, and perhaps she was mistaken, but judging by the way he talked to her it sounded like he was concern for her. She tried to tell herself that he was just concern for her health, and he was right it wouldn't do her any good if she passed out now. But, perhaps it was more then that. Perhaps there was affection coming him, no matter how much he was willing to show. And, though she would never admit it, it was nice. Not to mention different... and refreshing.
Perhaps her Mother was right. Nobody fight against love.
Although, in this case, she wished she could fight against it.