Title - First Love Author - Razzz E-mail- Razzzberi@aol.com Thanks!!! Hi - I'm back, after a super long hiatus - FINALLY!!!!!! Well, I'm on vacation now for a week, so I can do some more work!! Yeah!!! I love vacations. OK, there are a million totally cool people out there I NEED TO THANK!!!! LAUREL ANNE!!!! Not only has she written one of the greatest fanfics EVER!!!!!! She is the best person I know - her personality and heart are as amazingly wonderful as her writing, and I'm ETERNALLY grateful to her, for everything. SHE IS A GODDESS!!!!! I LOVE YA!!!! SMn Dolphin - Wonderful girl, wonderful writer, all around perfect person - what more should I say. GRACIAS!!!! Fushigi Kismet has written the most amazing stuff I HAVE EVER READ - it is truly inspiring!!! I think she is the bestest writer out there. Your stories have truly actually impacted me, touched my heart, and you are like your own religion or something to me, so highly do I esteem and adulate you - YOU HAVE GIVEN ME AN IDOL!!!! Lianne - NUFF SAID!! Can we say the absolute queen of fanfic writing - she has earned the title. Far and away, the greatest and most accomplished writer out there, because of her wit, her writing, and her charm. O, so many others who are amazingly wonderful people and I don't' have time to write my own little message to all, but Sui mei, Jenn, Sailor November, Freewaysocks, Kelly, so many others, every one who has written, artemis and luna and andrea for posting, and everyone who has ever ever ever written, or at least read, I have to thank - you all ROCK!!!! So remember, feedback, as usual is very welcome. Please, I really want to know what you guy think. So enjoy, happy Valentine's day. Remember to write, and oh yeah, one more thank you THANKS TRUSTY SPATULA!!!!! Molly's words rang out in Serena's ears, echoing over and over, forcing Serena to listen to each painful syllable. "I never get to see you anymore Serena. You're always hanging out with those new friends of yours." "I know Moll." "Are they more important than me? We've been friends since Kindergarten and suddenly, you don't have time for me anymore because you've got a whole new set of friends." "Moll, I'm sorry. I know I'm not spending much time with you anymore but-" "Serena! You don't' even know what's going on in my life - you even missed my birthday party! My best friends missed my birthday party to be with her new friends." "Molly, I had to. I had something really important to do. I'm-" "I don't want to hear any more Serena." Molly said tearfully, not looking into Serena's own sad face. "I don't think we should be friends anymore Serena." Molly . . .Molly wait." Serena cried, her hand outstretched towards her friend, who had turned and was walking away now, not looking back, her head held unconvincingly high. "Don't' go Molly. I'm sorry." she whispered, her words dying in the wind. Serena wiped at her tears absent mindedly, running as far away from the park as fast as she could, not paying attention to the time, the place, the surroundings. Nothing existed anymore, not at that second, when all she could feel was infinite sadness. She had lost her best friend. And it was all because of Sailor Moon. "I wish I had never ever even met Luna. I wish I was just a normal girl!" she hissed angrily, continuing to run blindly. She felt she just had to get away, to run away from some unseen foe she wasn't all that sure of. She turned a corner, passing by a group of trees. A familiar form was running down the path, heading towards her. "Not him, anything but him." she pleaded aloud, as his face came into focus. She sniffled a little, trying to dry her eyes, and immediately turned back the way she had come, hoping to outrun him. "Hey Meatball head. What'cha doing? Exercise - now that's a concept for you." Darien said, easily catching up to her. He waited for the usual comeback from her - and for some odd reason, was disappointed when it never came. She remained stonily silent, turning away from him and walking briskly ahead of him. "What's the matter. Too tired to talk?" he asked, trying to goad something out of her. Although, he had no idea why teasing this girl was something he felt he just had to do. It didn't make sense, and it was such a return to immaturity that his behavior around Serena totally confused him. But, if a day went by when he didn't see her, didn't have a chance to make her pout or smile or scream he felt that he had missed something, and he usually found himself in a bad mood until he saw her again. "Go away Darien." she said, her voice harder than he had ever heard it before. "Now why would I want to do that Meatball head?" he asked, a little worried at her tone. Something didn't feel right. He could feel some small sadness inside him, although he had no idea where it came from. Maybe with a little more teasing, he would be able to make her say something that while it might not seem like the wittiest thing he had ever heard, seemed to brighten his day just a little. "Leave me alone!" Serena cried, turning towards him and pushing him back, before she fled from him, stumbling over the path. Was that a tear he had seen? This wasn't like Serena at all. And that scared Darien more than he felt he had a right to be scared. "I'm not about to leave you alone till I find out what's bothering you, meatball head." Darien vowed, running after her. HE followed the path, until he heard the most pitiful sound he had ever heard coming from behind one of the bushes. It broke his heart as he recognized the voice. "Meatball head, you in there?" Darien called softly, pushing through the brush to get to her. "No." she replied. He smiled at the stubbornness that had returned, though the following sniffle made him frown. 'What could have made you so sad? You're not supposed to be sad.' he wondered. He finally got through to the other end, and walked towards Serena, who was sitting on the ground, her head buried in her knees and her back against the trunk of a tree. "Meat -" he shook his head. Serena?" he asked. "I want to be alone. Darien, please." she asked, her voice seeming so small and fragile. A thought flittered through Darien's mind, one where he would hold Serena until her tears had gone, one where he would make her smile, one where he would - no, this was Serena he was thinking about! Meatball head. His meatball head. He shook his head to clear it. "Please, tell me what's wrong. Who knows I might even be able to help." he said She shook her head. "If you want to bug me, get it over with and go. I really really don't' want to deal with you right now." she muttered, still hiding her head. "I didn't come to bother you. I was worried. That is not the Serena wail that I know and love." he said. She raised her head slowly, her eyes red from crying and her tears dried up on her face. He almost gasped at her expression. It was all wrong for her. She was supposed to have that wondrous eternal smile on her face, not this defeated look. "Oh Serena." he whispered, taken aback. he reached out to touch her arm comfortingly, as she stared at him, unsure. He stood up, taking her hand in his and pulling her up with him. "How about a shake, and we can talk, ok." he offered, She looked around, as thought the trees would give her an answer. This was Darien they were talking about, mean, teasing old Darien. But right now he seemed so sincere. And she didn't' really have the heart to argue anymore. "Ok." she whispered, running a hand over eyes to wipe away the remnants of her tears. Darien noticed how she walked in that defeated, sad way, so unlike her usual boisterous step. Whatever had happened must have really hurt her. 'I'll kill him. Whoever did this to her I'll kill.' he thought vehemently, surprised by the force of his emotions, unsure why he felt a surge of overwhelming protectiveness all of a sudden. He wanted her to say something, smile, to do something - but she remained silent and it hurt him. Every moment she was unhappy, he couldn't' find a smile in himself. "So . . ." he said, trying to start a conversation. She stared at the path a head of her. "Um, how was school? Fail any more tests?" he asked. He could have kicked himself!!! 'Fail anymore tests? Way to go Chiba! MORON!' he thought. She glared at him. "Did it ever occur to you that I might not like being teased all the time?" she said quietly. "Did it ever occur to you that it just might bother me. It's not like I want to be stupid!" she said, her voice rising. Darien stared at her outburst in shock. She was deadly serious. Guilt poured into him, darkening his soul. "Serena . . .I, I had no idea-" "Well now you do. I don't think I want that shake. I'm not very hungry." she said, stepping p ahead of him. "Not hungry? Serena what's going on?" he asked. She wondered at the worry in his voice. It was an odd combination, but she liked it - she liked it a lot. "Nothing," she whispered in a choked voice, her words a hoarse whisper. "Later Darien." she said, flying off down the road and disappearing into the crowded street. He stared off after her, unsure of what to do, knowing only that he wanted to help her more than anyone in the entire world. Serena turned the volume to her stereo up another notch to drown out the knocking at her door. She didn't want to deal with anyone just then. Her mood just wouldn't' allow civility - she basically just wanted to be left alone. She sighed in frustration as her door swung open, her mother standing there, hands on her hips. "Serena, your teacher called today. She said you're failing Math. Do you have anything to say about this?" Ilene Tsukino asked. "Math is stupid - it's not like you'll ever need to actually know the how to find the area of a triangle in real life. School is so pointless!" Serena complained. Her mother's countenance darkened. " Well, stupid or not, you need to pass this class, Serena Usagi Tsukino, and I am going to make sure that you do." Ilene said. Serena turned to face her mother, her eyes already watering at the thought of punishment. Ilene raised a finger. "And don't' you start the water works young lady. I am absolutely furious with you. How are you ever going to get into a decent school with grades like these? If you can't study yourself, I think it's time we got you some help." "But Mom, I'll do better next time, I promise, I-" "No but's Serena, you're getting a tutor and that's final! Now open up that math book and I expect to SEE your homework done when I come back." she said, her voice final. Serena didn't' dare disobey her mother when she was in one of those moods. She reluctantly opened her book and stared at the problem in misery - this just wasn't' her day. "So so long, my princess. It has been much too long." He said aloud, chuckling. She was there, on that small little planet, the woman that was meant to be his! And he would reclaim her, Oh yes she would be his again. Serena sat at the table in the library, looking around in awe - she had never seen so many books in one place at one time. 'When is that tutor going to show! Oh, I hope he's cute!' she thought. Her mood darkened as she saw a familiar head making its way towards her. 'Can't he just leave me alone,' she scowled. His glasses hung crookedly from his nose, his hair mussed and papers falling loosely from his folder. He looked down at her frowning face and tried to suppress a chuckle. "What's the frown for, meatball head. It doesn't' become you." he said teasingly. "Go away, lame brain! I don't' want to talk to you." she pouted. "Oh really? Then why did you just now?" he asked. She opened her mouth to reply, but it died on her lips, unable to think of a fitting comeback. "OH!!! Just go away. I'm waiting for my tutor and I really don't have time for this and-" "Wait, wait wait, back up there a second. Tutor?" he asked. Yes tutor - I thought you were supposed to go to some smart person, fancy shmancy high school - what don't you get?" "Um, you wouldn't' happen to be Serena Tsukino, would you?" he asked. She stared at him in shock. "How do you know my last name - I never told you!!! You're some sort of stalker - EWWWW get away, scary man, scary man!' she wailed, her pitch increasing with every word. "Calm down Meat ball head! I'm not some pervert," Darien said, holding his hands out in front of him. "You wouldn't' happen to be getting tutoring in Math?" "How did you - oh no. NONONONO!!! I don't' care, I'm not going to take lessons from YOU!" she spat, standing up furiously. "Ah, come on, you're hurting my feelings there meatball head. I'm not that bad, am I.," he asked, feigning hurt. She scowled at him, sitting down as her mother's words reappeared in her head. "All right. I'll stay - but not cause of you - my Mom would fry me if I don't' stay." she said. "You're breaking my heart there," he said, laughing as she glared up at him angrily. He sat down next to her. "So, let's see that book -Algebra 1, right?" "I guess." she said, digging into her backpack, throwing aside the various loose papers and comics she had strewn there until she managed to find the elusive little math book and opening it to chapter two - hoping that she was at least in the right section. "So, what don't you get?" Darien asked, after studying the page quickly. "All of it." she said, shrugging her shoulders. A smile leapt to the corner of Darien's mouth. "All of it -All right, we can do that. Let's start off at the beginning - do you know what kind of problem this is?' he asked. She looked at it, tapping her pencil absentmindedly at the little two that seemed to hover over the x. If she put eyes in the right spot, and added a curve at the end, it could almost be a smiley face with a - "None of that Meatball head. No doodling. Were you even paying attention?" he asked, taking her pencil as he noted her wandering gaze and lack of attention. Her eyes flashed stormy. "I was too listening!" she cried indignantly. "So what kind of equation is that?" he asked. She looked at the page again, determined not to look like a fool, especially in front of him. 'I'll show him!' she thought. She scrunched up her nose in concentration, trying to rack her memory for the right word, chewing absentmindedly on the pencil end. 'She looks cute when she does that - ARGH!!!' Darien thought, frustrated. 'This is Serena. What are you THINKING!' He looked away, behind him, Serena's face completely out of his view, noting all the people in the library. Something tugged at the back of his mind, something he should have noticed, something he knew he should have recognized, but he didn't. He wasn't' sure what - déjà vu maybe? Maybe- "I don't know." Serena said, snapping him back from his thoughts. "See, you weren't' paying attention. If you would stop all your day dreaming and concentrate on the task at hand -" he was interrupted by Serena standing up abruptly, the chair clattering behind her. "If I wasn't so stupid. If I wasn't so stupid I could get this. But I am stupid Darien. I am beyond dumb, and nothing you can do can make me any smarter. So you can just go home to all your friends at your brilliant person school and laugh about poor stupid me, because I don't care. I don't. I'm so over this tutoring thing, so later." she said angrily, grabbing her things in a haphazard fashion. Darien grabbed her wrist, stopping her. "What are you doing? Let go of me." she said, pulling away. He shook his head. "I never said that Serena. What makes you think I did?" he said softly. Was that sincerity in his voice? "Because it's true. I'm not like you or Amy or-" "Says who?" she looked at him, confused. "What do you mean, says who. Everyone does. My teacher, Mom, Rei, Luna . . ." "Luna?" he asked. "Isn't' that your cat?" "Yeah, well, I'm stupid remember - I forgot cats don't talk. Now let me go Darien. I don't' want to be tutored anymore." "Serena, come on. You're a lot smarter than you give yourself credit for," he said. She was almost tempted to sit back down, his voice sounding so sweet. "I don't' know of anyone else than can somehow manage to verbally abuse me as well as you do - that has to count for something." he said. Serena smiled slightly. Darien broke into a grin as well, as though her smile could brighten his day. "Much better! I like it better when you do that. But lately, you know, I haven't seen you smiling much at all. Like yesterday." Serena's face fell, and she almost pulled away from his grasp, which still lingered on her arm. "I don't' want to talk about that." she said, her voice lost of all bounce. "I seem to remember me asking you out for a shake. Still up for it?" "YEAH!" she said enthusiastically. "But, I don't' want to talk about stuff." she added quickly. "Of course - I wouldn't' dream of asking. See, my lips are zipped." he said, pantomiming with his hands zipping his mouth closed. Darien stood up and gathered their stuff, shouldering both his and her bags. Serena looked back at him. This was a strange situation, to be sure. Grabbing a shake with Darien - mean, arrogant annoying Darien. And he was being DECENT! Wow! Concept! A definite change - one that she rather liked actually. She could feel the blush rise in her cheeks. That is, until she slammed into someone. "OOPS!! Sorry." she said, stepping back from the massive blue shirt that she had bumped into. She looked up at her latest victim. He was staring back down at her, a faraway look in his eyes. "Hey, are you ok? I'm sorry, I'm kinda clutzy - but it's not like fatal or anything." she said quickly. He laughed. "Fine." he said. She smiled. "That's good, well, bye." she said, stepping past him. Suddenly, his hand latched onto her shoulder. "Where are you going?' he asked, his voice seeming too low for Serena's liking. His hand tightened on her shoulder. "Hey! Let go. What's the matter with you? I said I was sorry," she said. He tugged at her, pulling her back towards him. Her heart nearly jumped out of her body. This guy was definitely freaky. He was starting to really scare her. 'Darien! Where are you!' she cried silently. "I'm sorry, but didn't' she just ask you to let her go?" Darien asked, as if hearing her silent plea. The guy just looked at him quizzically, then began to laugh again. "What is this? Why, you don't' mean to tell em you are still with the likes of him!" Darien's face seemed to darken as the man spoke, not liking where this was going one bit. He still hadn't let go of Serena. If he hurt her . . . "Let her go now!' Darien hissed. The man looked at Darien, seeing something in his face that made him back off - he had seen that look before. It was a look that told you not to cross paths with the young prince. No, he would not want to anger him to such a state. The man let go of Serena and silently walked away, smiling to himself. He hadn't' been sure before, but now, now he was positive. It was her - and he was with her! After all this time. No matter, though, he had found his princess, without a doubt, in Serena Tsukino. Serena rubbed her shoulder, watching the man leave, in shock. "Serena, are you all right? He didn't' hurt you or anything, did he?" Darien asked, hovering over her. "Fine. I'm fine. No biggie." she whispered. That had to be one of the strangest encounters she had ever experienced. Something about it just felt weird. And Darien, definitely acting out of character, all worried and nice, was definitely not helping add to the sense of normalcy. "You're starting to sound like my mother. Don't' worry, I'm cool." she said, reassuring him again, as he rubbed her shoulder to make sure everything was all right and where it should be. "Ok, but if anything feels funny, tell me. Are you sure you're up to that shake? I can take you home - or the hospital, I'm sure it's open right no. They're open 24 hours a day, right? Maybe I have some advil -" "Darien, what's wrong with you!" Serena exclaimed, stifling giggles. Darien blanched. "Nothing, nothing. I was just, well, you know, there are all types of bad people out there. I was just-" "Worried? Ah, how sweet!" Serena finished. She smiled, secretly pleased. For some reason, she liked the fact that he was worried about her, that he started babbling when it came to her being in danger. It didn't' make any sense, but it made her happy. "C'mon, let's go before they run out of shakes." Darien said, trying to clear his head. Why in the world did he get so worked up for? Serena! No, that guy acting all odd towards Serena. He hoped she would never know how scared that spilt second had made him, when that man had clasped onto her shoulder so tightly, her eyes suddenly lighting in fear, a glance only Darien noticed, the man whispering to her in menacing tones that made Serena pale. He wanted to make sure that never happened to her again. She didn't' deserve it. She only deserved the best, and that meant . . .what did that mean? Who did that mean? Darien looked in his wallet unhappily, taking the last of his money as Serena slurped away happily on her drink. How such a little girl could eat such a big amount was beyond him. She circled the straw around the cup, trying to get the very last morsels of chocolate, before leaning back in the chair contentedly. "Enjoy?" Darien asked. Serena nodded her head vigorously. "Way, totally super yummy!" she enthused, giggling. Darien smiled back at her, content for some unknown reason. "Thanks Darien! You are for sure my favorite tutor. Most of the time." "Aren't' I your only tutor?" he asked. She wrinkled her nose again, looking too cute again. Darien silently admonished himself for that thought. This was Serena here, 14 vs. 18 - NONE OF THAT! He told himself harshly. The door to the restaurant jangled to signal the arrival of new customers. Serena turned around to see the new arrival. 'Molly!' She thought in alarm, instantly turning her back and slumping down. Darien, utterly confused, looked out at the girl, then at Serena. "What are you doing Serena?" he asked. "Shh." she whispered. "Why are you hiding Serena?" he asked again. She rolled her eyes in annoyance. "Just be quiet!" she said, a little loudly, catching the attention of the one person she was hiding from. "Serena?" Molly asked. Serena tuck her tongue out at Darien, the peered out over the top of the booth timidly. "Hey Molly." she said hesitantly. Molly smiled wanly and cam to their table. "Serena, where you been? I've been trying to call you for the longest time!" "You have?" Serena asked, her voice gradually becoming louder. 'Does this mean she forgives me?' Serena thought hopefully. "Yeah. I wanted to call to apologize and . . hey, who's this? He's totally hot!" Molly said, poking Serena with her elbow in a joking fashion. "Oh, Molly, this is Darien. Darien, this is Molly." Serena said, introducing them. Molly's eyes darkened in concentration then snapped her fingers. "Hey, Darien. This isn't' the mean one your' always complaining about, is it? The one you said was stupid and mean and annoying and icky and conceited and-" Serena began to blush furiously. "All right Molly, we get the picture!" Serena cried. Darien simply looked on, smiling faintly, mildly amused. "So is he your boyfriend? What happened to Andrew or that Tuxedo Mask person - I thought you were totally crazy about those two." Serena resisted the urge to go beat her friend, speaking in the most civil tone she could manage trh0ugh clenched teeth, sure her face resembled a ripe tomato by now. "He's just my tutor Molly. GOD, what have you been watching? Besides, he's Rei's Boyfriend. Speaking of which, how's Melvin?" Serena teased back. Molly laughed, blushing slightly as the two began to gossip. Darien however, didn't' notice. He wasn't' even aware that he was smiling smugly. Serena had a crush on Tuxedo Mask. Now that was interesting. Very gratifying, definitely pleasing. So she did like him. SHE LIKED HIM!!! But would his alter ego give his true self competition? That brought Darien back to his senses. Competition for what? Nothing. Why was it that whenever that girl was around, she managed to royally screw with his emotions? "I've really missed ya, Serena." Molly said, looking down at her hands, wringing them tightly. "Me too Moll." "I've been wanting to say sorry since I said all those mean things that day. I didn't mean them." "Really?" Serena asked, her eyes beginning to sting with her tears. Yeah. I'm sure whatever your reasons are for not going, I'm sure they were good. They were good reason's, right?" Serena shook her head. "No, there is no good reason. I should have been there. I'm so sorry." Serena said, a single tear trickling down her face. She rubbed it away harshly. "I'll bet it was. And with all those attacks, everyone is all so stressed out. Why on my birthday that artist, Loni Lanai got attacked! It was a good thing Sailor Moon was there. I'll bet saving people takes up a lot of her time, Btu I'll bet its worth it. Right Serena?" Molly said. Serena reached over impulsively, hugging the brown haired girl tightly. "Thank you so much. You're my best friend, you know that?" Serena whispered. Molly nodded, crying now as well. She had really missed her best friend. The two pulled back, sniffling profusely and wiping at their faces. "I'll bet Darien thinks we're just a bunch of silly girls now." Molly said. Darien shook his head, still silent through the touching display. "I thought . . .it was sweet. If you girls want to go head out anywhere, I can drop you off on my way home." he offered. Serena smiled gratefully. "No thanks Darien. I gotta head home and it's not real far from here. I can just walk. I'll see you tomorrow Molly. You're gonna eat lunch with me and Aim and Lita, ok?" "For sure. I'll see ya later then. Bye." Molly said, standing up. "Nice to meet you Darien." "Same here Molly." he said, helping her grab her things. Serena stood up, stretching out as she stepped out of the booth. "Was that what you were crying about before?" Darien asked, standing up as well after throwing some money down for the bill. Serena nodded. "Yeah." she said, not wanting to talk any more. Darien smiled evilly, getting an idea. "So . . . you have a thing for Tuxedo Mask?" he asked. Serena immediately flushed bright red, beginning to get flustered. "No . . .well . . argh! I GOTTA GO!! Later Darien!" she cried, zooming out of the restaurant. Darien watched her go, laughing to himself. She was something special indeed. Serena hummed a tune happily. It had been a truly wonderful day. Molly had she were best buds again. And Darien was being totally nice! And he had treated her to a shake. 'Once you get to know him, he's a pretty decent guy.' She thought. Maybe this tutoring thing would work out after all. She started to skip down the street, deciding to cut through the park to get back faster. Dinner was only in 20 minutes, and she didn't want to be late for that. "Lalalala lalalalala . . . lalalala dedumdedumdedumdeee . . ." Serena broke of her singing as she thought she heard something behind her, a twig snapping. The shadows cast by the setting sun made everything seem just a tad bit more scary. "Get a grip Serena. You're just hearing things. Just a squirrel." She told herself, taking a deep breath and starting to walk again, at a faster pace. After a few more steps. She stopped again, sure she had heard the undeniable sound of more twigs breaking. 'This is getting ridiculous!' she thought. But that didn't' stop the panic from rising in her chest. "Stupid or no, I'm outta here!" she said, starting to run. As her pace quickened, she could hear a crashing behind her, someone running fast, no longer caring if he was noticed. Serena pumped her legs faster, trying to gain as much speed as she could. 'Tuxedo Mask, where are you when I need you!?!?!" she cried silently. 'Wait a sec . . .I'm Sailor Moon!' she remembered. 'I ought to be able to take whatever is following me out and dust him, no prob! That would show Rei.' She could hear her pursuer close behind her now. 'Oh oh oh! I can't face him ALONE!' "HELP!" Serena screamed aloud, her terror filled voice echoing loudly before a hand clamped down tightly over her mouth to silence her. Darien hung over the railing of the bridge, staring into the water of the stream that cut through the vast park. He usually found himself there, thinking. This time, he was thinking of her - no, not his dream princess; he was thinking of Serena. He didn't even realize how much he was looking forward to their next tutoring session. Maybe he could ask if she needed help every day. Today seemed to invigorate him. Just another chance to be that near to her again for more than the few minutes they usually ran into each other for. He refused to be able to see her for that paltry amount of time anymore, not when he could spend an entire hour at least with her now. Something about her . . . something more powerful than any drug envisioned. What was this? This desire, this need? He could see her smiling, one of the most beautiful things he had ever seen, that gorgeous smile. And its beauty grew when she smiled for him. Maybe, next time, he would get her to do that again. A sharp pinprick poked the back of his head. But this was an unfamiliar feeling. It wasn't' the usual sensation he felt when he turned into Tuxedo Mask. Somehow this felt different, though still as urgent. And then he heard it. One sound piercing through the quiet. "HELP!" Oh God! Serena! That was Serena! NO! His body stood rigid with overwhelming fear for her for about a millisecond, before he was running faster than he had ever run in his life into the woods. "I'm coming Serena! I'm on my way!" "I have missed you." He said. Serena was too scared to move at that point. She didn't' detect any of the evil that had usually been apparent in other enemies. No this was a truly human threat and for some reason, he scared her more than the others because of his humanity. He stared at her in adoration, smiling, liking what he saw. He slowly removed his hand from her mouth and clutched her wrist tightly, just as his other hand was. "Don't you yell now princess." He said quietly, looking around. Serena nodded slowly, too terrified to do much else. "What do you want with me?" she whispered, gaining limited use of her vocal chords. He stared down at her, confused for the moment, then pulled her behind a large tree, out of sight of anyone who might happen to be taking a stroll down the path. "Don't' you remember me princess?" he asked. He could see by the terror in her eyes that she did not. "Perhaps you don't recognize me. I am much changed from when last I saw you. But, I'm sure you remember this," he said. He bent his head down, pressing his lips against hers. Serena was frozen to the spot, neither fighting nor responding to him. 'NONONONONONO! Help me someone, please, Darien help me, help me.' She thought. The instinct to fight rose up in her, and she began to struggle, raking her nails over the hands which held her in place. This wasn't' right! "Must you go?" she asked. He nodded his head gravely. "I must. There is, after all, a war going on. But do not worry, my princess, I will return to this kingdom." "You will? Promise?" she said. He looked out over the gorgeous civilization that would soon be his to rule, the beauty that would soon be his wife. "How could I leave all this behind?" he asked. She smiled, satisfied of his answer. He leaned over, kissing her deeply. It would all be his so, so soon. He was still kissing her, but Serena had long since forgotten he was even there, retreating into that strange memory. She was dimly aware of a cry of utter rage, and then, she had been released from his harsh kiss, and from his rough grasp; without his hands to hold her up, she fell to the ground. What had just happened? What was going on? Darien let his fist fly again. And again. And again. He wasn't sure how he had known where to find her, but he had, stumbling onto some man, the man from the library, kissing her. How dare he kiss her. She obviously didn't' want to be kissed, her hands trying to claw at him, her body instinctively trying to move away. And as he rushed forward, she had suddenly stopped, her body sagged. Ice settled over his heart. He would pay for hurting her. He would pay! "Get away from her!" Darien had yelled, his voice a fearsome sound. He had no idea it COULD sound like that. "Really, I thought you had gotten over it by now." the man said arrogantly. Darien's face flushed in absolute, pure hatred. "Bastard." He whispered under his breath vehemently. He barely knew that he was now flying into the air, trying to beat the life out of the man, a punch connecting with the man's jaw, stomach, head. The man was a worthy opponent, blocking many of Darien's attempts to land a punch. But the blind, uncontrollable rage that had consumed Darien was not something he wanted to face. He had witnessed the results before. "Until we meet again, my princess." The man said, glancing at Serena who was still on the ground blankly watching the two. "I'll kill you first!" Darien hissed, his right arm sailing forward to meet . . . air? The man had disappeared. Right in front of him. Gone. His parting words had caused a shiver to run down Darien's spine. 'Until we meet again . . .' He would be back, again, after Serena. Not if Darien had anything to say about it. He would NOT let that freak near her again. He would protect her, with his life if he had to. Nothing, NOTHING would harm her. And that man had . . . had been . . .Darien gulped, irrationally afraid for her now. He turned around, seeing her kneeling on the ground, her eyes dull, he face slack. "Oh no. No . . ." he whispered, falling to the ground beside her. "Serena?" he asked. She blinked. "Serena, please, please, Serena. Say something. Please, Serena . . ." he was almost sure tears were starting to form in his eyes, even thought it had been years since he had last done so, praying that she was all right, that he hadn't hurt her. With a choked sob, she suddenly flung herself into him, her tears running their course down her face. Darien, not even knowing exactly how to respond to her, but acting impulsively anyways, snaked his arms around her, stroking the back of her head as she cried into his chest, her small hands clinging to him. It was as though they had been made for each other, she fit so perfectly with him, the perfect size and shape to fit so snugly in his arms. He held her tightly as her body shook violently, until the sobs subsided to whimpers, and then until she had finally stopped altogether. She sagged against him, not wanting to leave his protective embrace. She knew, there, she was safe. She could trust him. He would not let her be hurt. Such warmth, spreading over the cold that seemed to penetrate her marrow, taking it and replacing it with another, more pleasant feeling. "Are you hurt?" he asked, hoping that his worst fears were not true. She was unable to speak still, but managed to nod her head. Darien sighed a breath of relief. She was OK. OK!!! For one long moment, he had been so afraid that she might have been . . .that perhaps, she wouldn't' be there, in his life anymore. And, he wasn't' sure if that was a life he was prepared to have, a life that lacked brilliant smiles and jubilant laughs and everything that she was. He held her just a little tighter. 'I need her.' He thought, unsure of whether that was a good thing or a bad. At the moment, he didn't' care. He could figure that out later. Because right now, she needed him as much as he needed her and that was all that mattered. Serena had finally fallen silent, her arms loose, but still holding onto him, her head resting against him. He carefully looked down at her, tilting her face ever so slightly. She had fallen asleep. He smiled down at her, rubbed away a tear that was still left on her moist face, and tenderly lifted her up in his arms. "Sleep well, Meatball head. Sleep well." He whispered, slipping away from the park. "God Serenity, try closing your mouth - you're likely to catch flies." Endymion whispered into the young princess's ear. She turned on him, discreetly sticking out a tongue. "Not my fault he's gorgeous." She said, turning her attention to the new arrival to court that day. "You know, if you weren't you, I think I might get annoyed - and even then, you are most definitely the most troublesome girl I have ever met." "That's why you love me, Endy. Now be quiet, I don't' want to look silly in front of him." Serenity said under her breath. "I don't see what all the fuss is about. It's just Prince Tyrian from - what Asteroid was it he came from? "Endymion! ARGH! Why in the world I had to choose to have a guy for a best friend . . . you just don't get it. I'll bet Mina could appreciate his . . . aesthetic value." "I truly doubt you would WANT me appreciating his 'aesthetic value.'" Endymion countered. Serenity gasped in exasperation. "Eww, pervert. Get your mind out of the gutter! You know, if you . . . oh, Um . . .uh, Good evening Prince Tyrian." Princess Serenity stuttered. "If I may introduce my daughter, Princess Serenity, and Prince Endymion of Earth." Queen Serenity said. Princess Serenity curtsied deeply, while Endymion simply nodded his head in acknowledgement. He already could tell that he wasn't' going to like this new prince. Already, the girls in the court were fawning over him, and after only arriving that day! And what was worse, Serenity was joining them! He had always thought she was the sensible sort, not prone to such silly actions. That was why she was his best friend while he was up at the moon kingdom learning the magic that abounded in that mystical society. Surrounded by girls every day, as most of the court consisted of them, and only the Moon Princess had managed to catch is attention as undeniably, one of the guys. No silly mooning over boys for her - she was always game for the romp in the mud or the sword fight. To tell the truth, the fact that she was starting to turn into another one of those silly girls really bothered him. It just wasn't' Serenity- like at all, and he didn't' like it one bit. Prince Tyrian bowed deeply before the Princess, taking his hand in hers and gently kissing it. "It is always a pleasure to meet a creature as beautiful as yourself," the Prince said gallantly. Serenity could feel a blush rise in her cheeks. Endymion merely scowled at the man. 'It's always a pleasure to meet a creature as . . ." he imitated nasally to himself. "Oh come on Serenity, you're not gonna fall for that one are you? OH NO! Serenity, come on! No, don't . . .you did!" he thought to himself, groaning angrily as she was taken in by the words, giggling slightly in embarrassment. Again confirming Endymion's belief that he wasn't going to like this guy. Too smooth, too much of a BS'er, probably more proud than a peacock, arrogant as an . . ." "Oh, and it's nice to meet you too, Endymion." Prince Tyrian said as an after thought. Endymion swallowed down the urge to go throw the guy in the mud. But then Serenity would think he was being stupid, and boorish and start lecturing him again in that manner that seemed to tell him that he had done something dreadfully disgraceful. Of course, it hadn't' been that long ago when she had been joining him in those wonderfully fun acts that usually ended up with one or both of them being sent to their rooms. "Perhaps, Princess, you would care to show me around the castle." The prince asked, offering an arm to her. Serenity hastily took it, smiling sweetly back at Endymion. '"I'll see you at dinner Endy." she said, before turning all her attention back on the Prince. Endymion watched the two, his eyes narrowing at the threat he saw in Prince Tyrian. He was trying to take his Princess away. But Endymion wasn't' going to let him. No way! She was his best friend, and he wasn't about to give her up to some pompous Prince of Priss. Serena rolled over groggily, rubbing her eyes. 'Where am I?' she wondered in alarm, not recognizing the room, or the bed, or anything else. She stood up, smoothing out her dress, and looking out the window. It was late, the moon already up. 'My parents are gonna go psychotic!' she thought. A quick glance at the clock told her it was about 8. She carefully peeked out the door of the bedroom, staring into a sparsely decorated room, filled with a couch, lamp, small table and TV, which was on the 24-hour news channel. "Darien?" she asked. The person sitting on the couch turned towards her, smiling brightly when he realized she had finally awakened. "Hey sleepy head." he said. She pouted. "Must you always make fun of everything related to my head!" she said. "Sorry, jeez!" he said. "Want some pizza?" he asked, holding out a slice. Serena's eyes shone as she locked on the food. "Could I . . .?" she asked. He nodded and she grabbed it greedily from him, swallowing it in two huge bites. "So how you feeling?" Darien asked. Serena blinked, trying to remember. And then she did. SCARY MAN!!!! And, a scary dream to accompany it. "OK, I guess." she said, her voice losing some of its enthusiasm. Darien got up, crossing the room to stand close to her. "Are you sure?" he asked, the concern in his voice palpable. Serena smiled wanly at him, nodding her head. "Yeah, positive. How did I end up here?" she asked. "I brought you. You fell asleep on the way back, and I didn't think your parents would appreciate it if I brought you home passed out in my arms." "Yeah. You met my Dad yet?" she asked. He nodded his head, almost paling at the mere mention of her father. "Let's just say I was not what he pictured in a tutor. What I want to know is, where does he store the shotgun that makes it so easy to get to on a moment's notice." "It's a father trick. Kinda like how moms can always see when your lying I guess. I think parents must get some sort of super powers when they have kids, or something," she said, her voice trailing off. "Serena, that guy, did you know him?" "No. The only other time I ever saw him was at the library." she said. 'And in my dream.' she added silently. Darien fell silent, lost in thought. "I think, maybe, he's after you for some reason - a stalker or something. I think it would be safest if you didn't' really go places, or, if you must go out, always stay with a group of people." "All the time?" she asked. "Yea. It would be safest. I don't' think he's going to stop. I think you need to talk to the police. Make them stop this sicko." "But . . ." the images from her dream were starting to overwhelm her. That man, he was a dead ringer for that Prince in her dream. Maybe, she did know him. Maybe he was another one of the Senshi, sorta, that Luna had forgotten about. If that was the case, he couldn't' really be blamed, could he. What if she had just forgotten him? "I don't' want to call the police on this." She said. Darien stared at her, then took her hand. "But Serena . . ." "I don't' Darien. I wont' call the police." "Fine!" Darien cried, frustrated. " If that's what you want, we won't call them. But you have to be careful. Promise me, that you won't go anywhere alone." he said forcefully. She turned away from him doubtful. What if she had to get away for Sailor business? This wasn't' a promise she could make and keep. "Serena, promise me!" he said again, more insistently. "I worry about you. I don't' want you to get hurt, you know?" Darien said, his voice softening. His blue eyes seemed to penetrate hers, digging deeper and deeper into her soul. "All right Darien. I promise." she finally said, giving in. Why had she given in to him? She didn't' know. She knew she couldn't' be faithful to her promise. But, for some reason, she felt that she just couldn't' deny him. Not when he looked at her like that. Darien smiled at her, seeming to cast a whole new light on his face. Serena nearly gasped at the transformation. 'TOO CUTE!' she thought. If he kept that up, he would have to be added to her crush list. "Good." he said, touching her hand lightly. Serena stared down at it, at where their skin met. And looked up into his eyes, again. Both fell silent, looking at each other intensely, a charged air filling the room. Seconds later, Darien pulled his arm back, gazing down at the floor and coughing uncomfortably. "I better get you home before your Dad gets trigger happy." Darien said, careful NOT to touch her, careful NOT to even look at her. Why in the world was that so damn hard? Serena lay sprawled out on the floor, trying to finish the last of her homework. It had only taken her about three hours this time. She had been coming to Darien's for the past week for tutoring, and each day, getting her work done was always easier than the last time. She smiled triumphantly. Pretty soon she would be as smart as Aim. "Hey Darien, is this right - I'm de FOILing this right, aren't I?" she called out, chewing the end of her pencil. Darien put down the book he had been reading and knelt at her side, reading over the work. Serena noted that he was never far from her. Not that she minded. Something was very different about Darien now. He had pretty much stopped most of his teasing, except for a few good-natured ones that for some reason, she more often let slide. Something else about him, about his manner, was much more unsure than he had been, where before he had always been so cocky, so positive of who he was and what he was doing. No doubts. But now, he seemed to have lost that. It puzzled her. "Looks fine to me. You're really getting the hang of this stuff." He said, flashing her a congratulatory smile. He had become increasing proud of her through out the week. He had been trying to stay near her as much as possible, keeping her at 'tutoring' until dinnertime at least to make sure that her stalker stayed away. That feat had been possible due to the fact that her father had been called out of town for then next two weeks. The last few nights he had been keeping her with him even past then, treating her to dinner, when he had noticed someone, a dark shadow that he couldn't' make out, following them. He was careful not to let Serena know his fears that that strange man was following her, but that didn't' stop his own heart from racing each time she stepped outside. He knew that odd man was out there, just waiting for her. But, he had another thing coming. He wasn't going to get her if Darien had anything to say about it. He would protect her, keep her safe from the evil that wanted her. She wasn't theirs to take. "Just finish up this last set and we're done." he said. Serena scowled at him, then turned back to the work. Every so often, Serena would forget about her math problems and peek over at Darien. For some reason, she knew she could trust him. For some reason, she even was starting to LIKE him! Maybe even friends now. She could see that something was bothering him, it was written in his face. "Hey, Darien?" Serena asked. Again, Darien got up, looking over her shoulder at the math problem. "You haven't done anything Serena!" he said, slightly annoyed. "I know. But, I was wondering . . . we're friends right?" she asked. "Yeah." he said, nodding his head. "I think so." "Then friends can tell each other stuff, right," she said. "Yeah, sure they can Serena." She turned to face him, eye to eye. "Then why won't you tell me what's wrong?" she asked. Darien turned away from her, her eyes seeming too intense, as though they could see into him. She gently touched his face, pushing it back into alignment with hers. "If something's bothering you, you can tell me," she said sincerely. "Serena, I'm fine, really it's-" She interrupted him, her hand thrust high into the air. "I KNOW!" she cried, startling him. "You need COOKIE DOUGH!" she said. "Huh?" Darien asked. Now he was really confused. "You can't tell your problems if you don't' have cookie dough. Didn't your mom ever make you cookie dough while you told her why you were bummed out?" she asked. "No. Did yours?" he asked, trying to contain a laugh. Cookie dough? She sure was on odd child. "Are you kidding! No of course not, you never kid. OK buster, we are making you some cookie dough." she said, determined. She sprung up, grabbed his hand and literally dragged him into the kitchen. She threw open the cabinets, throwing out all the ingredients she thought she would need, and laid them out on the counter. "OK, now sit up there." she ordered, pointing to the tabletop. "Serena, this isn't' necessar-" "SIT!" he knew better than to mess with her when she sounded like that, and promptly hopped up onto the counter, watching her in amusement while she poured and mixed and blended. "OK, so, what's on your mind?" she asked. "Serena, I'm not-" "Fine, I'll go first." she said. "Um, let's see, what's bugging me today? There's that stupid math test, oh, and Melvin is going totally nutso, AGAIN! OH YEAH!!! SAMMY is such a pain! So's Luna. But I think that's her job, so I guess it's Ok, sorta. But she expects me to take all this responsibility on, you know?" "Pets demand a lot of care and attention Serena. You have to be responsible of else they'll die." he said. "That wasn't' exactly what I meant." she said to herself. "But, you know how you just want to do the normal kid stuff, like go to the arcade and shop, oh, yeah and eat, and boys and . . .well, all that fun stuff, and then, you get hit with this whole new thing that pretty much takes over your whole life. I mean, I'm supposed to do all these things, and be this great fighter and leader and all this other junk, and I never even get any sleep, but I'm supposed to be a good student too, and I'm supposed to do all this, and I don't' have time to just be a normal kid. I mean, I MISSED my best friend's birth day cause of it. That's not right, but no one really understands, cause everyone says that it's my duty or something. I don't' know. You get what I'm saying?" "Yeah, I think I do." Darien said. She smiled gratefully. "That was cool. Never had a chance to get that off my chest. Feels good. Care to try?" she asked. He looked down at his shoes, trying to decide. Here was this incredible girl, who had just told him something secret, something guarded, something she hadn't ever told anyone, yet she told him? Why? What made him so special that she felt she could tell him her emotions? He couldn't' just not say anything, after she had just said all that to him. "Have some cookie dough first, it'll make things easier." she said, handing him a spatula covered in the sweet dough. He took a cautious bite, then smiled. "Not bad, meatball head." "YOUR TURN!" she said, hopping up on the counter by the bowl of cookie dough and swinging her legs back and forth. Darien sighed. "I guess, It's just really hard for me, cause, see, um . . ." "Just spit it out," she said. 'He sounds so cute when he doesn't' know what to say.' she thought. "I'm not really good at this talking about your emotions thing, you know. I never really let people know . . .well that's beside the point. See . . . .I'm really worried about you. Last week, when I saw you . . . I should have been there sooner, before that guy even had a chance to get his hands on you. I mean, I should have -" She turned to him with watery eyes. "That's what's been bothering you?" she asked. He nodded. "I can't be with you al the time . . . what if -" "NO! Don't' even worry about that." she said. "It's so not a biggie at all, cause I have . . ." she looked around the room, then grabbed the closest thing to her. "I have my TRSUTY SPATULA!" she cried, taking a bit of the cookie dough that still clung to it. "So now worries, right. I'll be fine. En garde!" she challenged, pointing the spatula at him. Darien smiled, jumping off the counter and grabbing an eggbeater. "Oh yeah?" He said. She laughed, clanging her spatula against the beater in a mock sword fight, spraying cookie dough all over, most of it splattering on Darien's face. He wiped it away with a finger. "Get me covered in food, will ya?" he said. He picked up a handful of cookie dough and took a step towards Serena. She shrieked, and ran behind the counter. "Darien, you wouldn't really. I was just kidding - an accident, really." she pleaded. He grinned, then, in one fluid motions, hopped over the counter, standing next to her, and drew a line of dough down her cheek. She quickly refilled on her own edible ammunition, and sprung at him, dough in hand, ready for the attack. He caught her hand easily enough, stopping it from mashing his face with dough, her nose practically touching his. Everything seemed to slow down, and Darien was only aware of being so close to HER. He could feel her eyes on her, and he reluctantly looked back at them despite the protests from his irrational reason, seeing them gazing into his in wonder. His breathing slowed down, matching hers perfectly, the tension in both their bodies seeming to rise, make them both stiff, unsure, and he was almost afraid. Almost. Her lisp seemed to be moving closer to him, or maybe it was he that was moving closer to her. He didn't' know, but he knew that kissing Serena would be so . . . be so . . .SO WRONG! He couldn't' do this! He abruptly let her go, trying to step far enough away so that her breath couldn't' make his skin tingle. "I uh - so . . .sorry, um-" he stammered, trying to clear his head. He was afraid to look at her, afraid that she would do that thing again that made him feel he needed her near. "Darien?" she asked, sounding just as confused as he felt. "Go home, yeah, that's it. Maybe you uh, better, head out. I'll take you to your um, to your house. OK?" he said, still trying to create coherent sentences. Serena nodded her head slowly. "Um, yeah, maybe that would be good." she said quietly, gathering her stuff. 'What the heck just happened?!?!'