Story: First Love part six
Author: Razzz
E-mail: Razzzberi@hotmail.com

	So, how many people thought that this part took way too long? Razzz raises her own hand, embarrassed. So, please, let me apologize. It was supposed to come out a few weeks ago when I had finally finished the stupid thing, but then, then my mom decides to not pay her credit card bills and our AOL got cut off, and we didn't have any internet access, until I figured out that Hotmail has free e-mail and the local University computers are still open. So, that is the tragic tale of my life. So, here I am, back with the almost final part - it was getting way too long for just one chapter so I'm breaking it up -  and a new e-mail at Razzzberi@hotmail.com (Big change, huh?) So, what do you guys think? Write back and tell me!!! And, everyone whose been trying to get in touch with me, E mail or otherwise, PELASE WRITE!!!! Because I lost all my addresses and I'm too lazy to track them all down.
Well, see ya around. Razzz - and don't forget, comment!! E-mail!! I need it.
Sailor Moon belongs to Naoko Takeuchi and a whole bunch of other people. NOT ME!! (I WISH!!)

	"A message for you, your highness." the boy said, covered in mud and rain. He held a piece of paper in his hand. The prince gruffly turned from his plans, which were strewn across the small table in the middle of his tent, to glare angrily at the boy.
	"Can it wait?" he asked, annoyed.
	"I . . I don't know. " The boy said, terrified at being in the domineering prince's presence. He looked as cold as he had been rumored to be. But still, the prince had done so much for their planet. The boy couldn't' help but admire him. He acted like this because of his responsibility. It had to weigh heavy upon him.
	"FINE! Hand it over." The prince said, snatching the envelope from his hands and briskly ripping off the top and unfolding the letter. He let his eyes skim over it, the serious, cold look of a warrior melting from his face as shock and concern replaced it. The prince looked at the boy, his eyes burning intensely.
	"Where did you get this?" he asked. The boy trembled under such an intimidating glare.
	"It was just sent by messenger sir." 
	"Are you sure it isn't' a forgery." The prince demanded. The boy shook his head.
	"Yes sir." the boy said nervously, lookign down at his shoes to escape the stare from his leader. "The messenger came straight form his home planet and was wearing the official clothes and -"
	"I believe you," the prince said, stopping the boy's nervous stammering. "The seal on the letter proves it . . . I guess its just hard to believe that the prince is dead . . . " 
	"Dead sir?" The boy asked. The prince snapped back to attention.
	"It is none of your concern. You are excused." The prince said with a wave of his hand to dismiss the boy. The boy turned to leave, when the prince called out to him again. "O! And by the way, tell the captain that I want a ship ready to go to the moon as soon as possible."
	"Sir?" the boy asked, lookign back, shocked at the emotions upon the prince's face. He almost looked caring.
	"You heard me. I need to go to the moon kingdom. Immediately! Now go inform the captain of my wishes!" the prince ordered, exasperated. 
	"YES SIR!" the boy said, saluting before racing out of the tent and back into the rain and the midst of the battle zone. As soon as he was sure the boy was gone, the prince slumped back down in his seat, exhausted, as he re-read the letter.
	' . . . His ship was shot down as they were attempting to land. The source of the fire is unknown and an investigation is being held . . . no survivors . . . ' the prince shook his head. It didn't really affect him too much. He treated it as yet another casualty of war, yet, almost despised himself for thinking so casually about death at all. Then, his minds wandered back to Serenity. She had to be devastated! He closed his eyes, bringing her face to his mind. He knew she was probably dying of sadness right now, to lose someone so close. He slammed his fist on the table, wishing there were a way for him to reach the moon right then. He would not leave her all alone in such a time of need. Whether she loved him or not, he would not leave her to suffer alone. He would always, always be there for her. Prince Endymion opened his eyes, walked to the open flap of the tent, and stared intently at the moon.
	"I'm on my way Serenity."

	Darien walked by the temple, his mind still whirling at the advice, at his almost kiss with Serena at . . . everything about the day! 
	"HEY DARIEN!" 
	Darien looked up, seeing the source of the voice sweeping her temple steps.
	"Hi Rei!" he called back up, waving. She put down the broom and walked down the stairs to greet him.
	"What are you doing way out here?" she asked, noting how far from his school, and the park, and his other hangouts he was.
	"Just walking, clearing my head." he said with a wry smile.
	"Clearing it? What's wrong?" she asked. He shook his head.
	"I just . . . hey Rei? You don't' happen to know a guy named Tyrian do you? A friend of Serena's." he asked. Her eyes narrowed at that. 
	"We've met." she said darkly. Darien raised an eyebrow, curious at her reaction.
	"Don't like him either, do you?" he said. She shook her head.
	"Not at all." she said. "There's something, I cant' quite put my finger on that just . . . I don't' really know. Why? Do you . . . "
	"Yeah, I know him." Darien said, his own voice becoming dark. 
	"Serena seems pretty tight with him though, so I guess we can deal with him." Rei said, sighing. "She can be so dumb sometimes."
	"Are they . . . close?" Darien asked. Rei was almost surprised at the insistent tone of his voice, the passion in his eyes. Almost, but not completely. She could see that Darien cared for Serena more than he was willing to admit.
	"I don't' really know." she sighed. "I mean, I think, he wants a relationship." she could see his hand clenching in anger. "And maybe Serena does, but she isn't' sure. I think she just likes . . . having someone, you know?" 
	"But him!" Darin said angrily. "He's, he's . . .she could do better!" 
	"I know. I think there's more to it than she's letting on." she said unhappily, her face full of worry. "But he still creeps me out. There's something not quite right with him. I can feel it."
	"Do you thin k we should tell her  that we think he's -" Darien began but Rei shook he head.
	"Us telling her not to do something will only make her more stubborn and probably make her start hanging out with him more. I don't think there's anything we can do about it. If she's going to go out with him, we have to let her." Rei said calmly. Darien's eyes could barely contain his anger.
	"But-"
	"Darien, we cant' tell her what to do." 
	"I guess." he said, still angry. "But . . . I just don't' trust that guy!" 
	"Neither do I." Rei agreed. 
	"Well, how can you just watch her make a mistake like that and do NOTHING! Don't' you CARE AT ALL!" 
	"OF course I do!" Rei said, putting her hand on his shoulder. "And I know you care too. More then you want to probably. But all we can do, if we really do care, is let her learn for herself what kind of guy Tyrian is." She said. Darien looked at her, carefully considering her words.
	"I guess I have no choice then, do I?" He asked. Rei shook her head. "But I don't' have to like it." 
	"It's nice to know that Serenity has such loyal friends." 
	"WHAT? Who's' there!" Rei said, whirling around to face the voice. 
	"I don't' think Serenity would be all that pleased to know that you are plotting against her!" Tyrian said, stepping out to face Rei and Darien. 
	"Tyrian. What are you doing here?" he growled. 
	"I was invited over. Isn't' that so, Rei." Tyrian asked. Rei lowered her head, nodding it slowly.
	"Serena asked me to have him over today." she said. Darien glared at her angrily, then at Tyrian.
	"Well, then, I guess, I'll be on my way." Darien said, moving to leave.
	"Not just yet." Tyrian said, stepping in front of Darien. "I have some things I would like to discuss with you"
	"Well, that's too bad. I really do have somewhere to be right now Tyrian, so if you don't' mind I'll just be going-"
	Tyrian grabbed Darien's arm roughly, yanking him back.
	"I did not say you could leave!" Tyrian yelled angrily. Darien shot a  worried look back at Rei, who shrugged.
	"Fine Tyrian," Darien sighed, "What do you want?"
	"I want you to say away from her. I want all of you to stay away from her!" he said darkly. 
	"Stay away from who?" Darin asked.
	"FROM MY FIANCEE!!" Tyrian roared. "Don't' you pretend! I have seen you two together. You are trying to steal Serenity away! But I wont' let you have her! You stay away from what is mine, do you understand!"
	Rei gasped, her hands flying to her mouth.
	"Fiancée!?!?! Serena and you? She must be nuts if she agreed to -"
	"Not a word from you Rei! As your superior, I order you to-"
	"SUPERIOR!" Rei cried haughtily. "I can say anything I want to you, you prissy, stuck up, spoiled yuppie!"
	"I would not say that Rei. I do not want you, any of you four, coming near Serena again. Or you," Tyrian said, whirling to face Darien, pointing at him roughly. "You are no longer allowed to see her either! You would just as soon steal her away! Don't' think I haven't' seen you two together acting as though . . . you stay way from her!"
	"And what about what Serena wants, or does that not matter anymore!" Darien asked, trying to unclench his fist, trying to make the urge to hit Tyrian go away.
	"It doesn't' matter what she wants!! She is my future wife, and I will not allow her to come in contact with any of you! All you do is try and take her from me at every turn! I will not lose her to you! You have tried for so long, but she will always be mine!"
	"Right . . . and you will always be crazy." Rei said. "You can't just make decisions for Serena! And as for this marriage, I'll bet Serena hasn't' even agreed to it, has she! You're just some obsessed FREAK!" 
	Tyrian could feel his energy gather in anger. Soon, that impertinent Scout would PAY for her outburst.
	"She will be mine! She would already be mine if it weren't for you!" Tyrian cried, staring at Darien. "But you have turned her away from me, made her stop loving me! But you wont' have her! I will make her understand that there can only be one person in her life, and that is me! NOT YOU! It could never be YOU!"
	"I never did anything to make Serena not like you. Have you ever thought that maybe she just doesn't' like you cause you're a jerk?" Darien asked. Tyrian roared in anger, leaping towards Darien, his fists swinging. Darien easily sidestepped the failed attack, laughing, as Tyrian fell to the ground.
	"It is your fault that she questions me! You have made her love you! But soon, you wont' be a threat to us! NONE OF YOU WILL STOP DESTINY!" Tyrian screamed, the energy crackling around his forehead.
	Darien was terrified. Not for himself, but for Serena. This guy was so mentally unstable that he feared what he might do to her. Or what he might have already done! Whatever had set off this anger, this newfound anger that hadn't' been there before . . . Darien was suddenly so afraid for Serena. Why had Tyrian suddenly started going ballistic, thought that Serena was in love with . . . wait a minute! Tyrian had said that Serena loved him, Darien, instead of Tyrian. What would have given Tyrian such an idea? Unless, Serena herself had said so. He could almost feel the joy pour into his heart like warm syrup. But then, it quickly soured, his mood darkening. If Serena had indeed said that, and Tyrian was as unstable as he seemed, then Serena was in danger! She might already be . . . 
	"NO!" Darien cried, lunging towards Tyrian. "What have you done with Serena!"
	Tyrian laughed aloud, as a ball of energy flew forth from Tyrian's forehead, blasting Darien back into Rei.
	"What the hell are you?" Darien asked groggily, trying to stand. The blast of energy was so powerful. Darien realized with horror that Tyrian might not even be human! And Serena . . .he didn't' even want to think about it.
	"I must eliminate you both. It is for the best that Serena no longer have contact with any of you." Tyrian said, the energy crackling around him as he powered up for another attack.
	Rei was stuck. She didn't' know what to do. She couldn't' just transform in front of Darien! No way could she turn into Sailor Mars. But if she didn't . . . . what could she do! There was no choice now! She held her pen tightly, closing her eyes, hoping that this was the right decision.
	"TYRIAN PELASE! Don't' hurt them!"
	"Serena!" Darien and Rei cried at the same time, their voices full of concern. With a leap, Serena had crashed into Tyrian head first, knocking him to the ground, stopping the attack.
	Serena had woken up out side Rei's shrine, resting against the tree, the sounds of a battle ringing in her ears. She thought she heard Rei . . . and Tyrian . . .and Darien! She groggily got up, wincing as her injured foot protested against the stress put on it as she stood on the foot. As she slowly walked forward, not even wanting to remember how Tyrian had somehow caused her to fall asleep, that weird energy beam shooting into her from his forehead, she heard Darien yell out in pain. Her eyes opened wide, coming upon the scene, Tyrian looking extremely angry, almost evil, with the white hot energy crackling about him, and Darien injured in Rei's arms (a pang of jealousy at that). She clutched at her bow, ready to transform into Sailor Moon, when she realized it wasn't' there! She couldn't' transform! Tyrian must have removed it when she was unconscious. She looked back in horror at Tyrian readying another attack for her two friends, this one sure to make its mark, to fishing the job. Serena screamed, hoping that it was enough to stop him, and rammed into Tyrian, the only thing she could think of to save her friends.
	"Please, don't' kill them!' Serena said, grabbing onto Tyrian to try and slow him down. He gently pushed her away.
	"I have to eliminate them! I'm doing this for us, so we can be happy!" Tyrian said, glaring over at Darien and Rei again, who were both on their feet, unsure of what to do. They couldn't' really do anything now, not when Serena was right next to them. 
	Tyrian shut his eyes, letting the ball of white light form in the middle of his forehead. Serena clutched at him in terror, pulling on his arms, scratching him, trying to stop him.
	"NO!! You can't! Leave them alone!" she cried desperately. "Please, don't' hurt them!" Tyrian stopped, looking at her with an annoyed glare.
	"They must die! This is the way it has to be!" Tyrian said, his voice resolute. He turned towards Serena, allowing a thin tendril of power to knock her away form him. She flew through the air, landing about 15 feet away from Tyrian. She landed with a dull thud, tried to get up, but ultimately sunk back to the ground, her eyes shut in pain as the stars danced behind her eyes.
	"Serena!" Rei screamed, as Darien hissed angrily, his eyes burning ice. He rose his head defiantly, to look into Tyrian's eyes for one moment, hatred bubbling in his pupils for a split second. Then, he screamed in rage, an unholy shriek that prompted the birds from the trees, as he leaped forward, his limbs blindly flailing, to connect with some part of Tyrian.
	"I'll kill you." he repeated, as he charged at the scum who had hurt her, hurt Serena. The world had fallen away from him now, had given way to some dream like, burning red place where he was aware of only Tyrian, and how badly he wanted to hurt him, to make him pay. He would not let Tyrian take her away from him. He couldn't' stand it if that monster touched her, hurt her, stole her. Darien was barely aware of the damage he was doing, only knew that he was hitting something soft, something grunting in pain, something hard striking back, ignoring the pain, ignoring the burning in his limbs, as the fury took over, and he struck again, again, again, until his muscles felt as though they were jelly, his arms and legs volcanoes of shooting pain. And it didn't' matter. He swung again, and again, forgetting all reason, and logic, all thought, forgetting that he had powers too, forgetting everything, except the need to hurt this thing, this monster, make him pay for hurting Serena, for everything he had done. To make the prince feel as much pain as he had caused Serena, Serenity . . . 
	Darien suddenly paused in his rampage, as strange thoughts, snapshots of a past time, of a past life, flickered momentarily in his head, increasing his anger, increasing his confusion. Prince? Serenity? Endymion? Who? Who were these people? The earth suddenly came crashing back, was under his feet again somehow, the reds and blacks giving way to green and gray and blue. Darien looked down at Tyrian, who lay on the ground breathing hard, looking at Darien cautiously. Darien, still dazed, still lost in his mind, stared at him, not breathing, not moving, his eyes, hazy. And then, it cleared, the moment passed. His eyes narrowed to hard slits, his fists unconsciously tightened in rage as he stared at the offender. 
	She lay, still on the ground, by the tree, her prone body in plain view if Darien should happen to look over Tyrian's shoulder. He did. Tyrian was instantly forgotten as Darien's face softened, his blue eyes wide, his breathing shallow, as he ran to her side. 
	Tyrian shakily rose to his feet, his eyes intently watching Darien as he gently held his princess against him, stroking her hair so tenderly, speaking softly to her still unhearing ears, his face no longer a rigid mask, but an open play of emotions. No, the Earth prince would not have her, would not take her from him. He stood upright, leaning against a tree.
	"I wouldn't' do that if I were you." Rei said coldly, de - transformed, yet as menacing as she had ever been as a scout. Tyrian looked at her angrily, not moving, his jaw twitching, yet he did nothing.
	Soft whispered tones found their way into her sleep, soft dream like tones, soft emotional tones that guided her back to the world she had lost all awareness of. She recognized that voice. She knew who was speaking to her and yet . . . why would he sound like that, why would his voice contain that open emotion in it, why would he feel that way towards her? And yet, she could hear it, hear the tenderness, hear the feeling, the fear, the hope, the, the . . . could she acknowledge it, could she admit it, could it be true?
	"Wake up Serena. Open your eyes." 
	She would recognize his hand anywhere, the touch of it memorized so long ago, and yet, she could not recall when she had consciously made the effort to memorize its rough touch. But she knew it so well, could tell what fingers were tracing the sides of her face, were stroking her head, were brushing aside the strands of hair that had fallen loose. 
	"Come on Serena. You gotta get up. You're more stubborn that this! Wake up! Do you hear me? Just . . . "
	She could feel the touch of his skin against her forehead, amazingly soft, the point of his nose against hers, his breath dancing upon her lips.
	" . . . Don't . . . Leave. . . "
	She slowly opened her eyes, greeted by a world of shimmering blue, a world of only that shimmering blueness, as his forehead met hers, resting their despairingly, as though such close contact was his only link to her, was all he could have of her, was all he was sue of to keep her safe, with him.
	"Darien." her voice was so small, so soft, astonished, questioning, wondering, that he almost missed it. He was almost afraid he had made it up, made up the whisper of her voice that rang in his ears. He let himself look down, into her eyes, captured by them, and he knew she had spoken, had called, had called him! A sudden grin broke out on his face, laughter caught in his throat, as he pulled her upright in his arms, pulled her closer to him, laughing in spite of what had almost happened, laughing at Tyrian, at the world, at the fates, at anything that dared take her away, dare steal her, hurt her, harm her. He laughed, because he was holding her, was staring into her eyes, her hair running over his arms like a warm blanket. 
	Before she could control them, she could feel the tears coursing over her cheeks, absorbed by the light cotton of his shirt, running  onto his neck as she buried her face against it, as her body shook with the sobs, tremors of fear causing her to shiver violently, her hands fumbling blindly. She didn't' know when she had held onto him, but now, she knew, she was holding onto him so tightly his circulation was probably being cut off. And she didnt' care. She couldn't' let him go. She just wanted to be held by him forever, to be safe, forever, in his arms, forever, holding onto him as her terror eased, his hands somehow comforting her, somehow, magically, causing her sobbing to subside somewhat, until her tears became silent, her body weary and exhausted from her emotions, clinging onto him now because she knew she could not stand by herself, because she knew, he would always be there to take care of her.
	"I wont' let him hurt you again." Darien said, his voice dark and heavy, dark with his unconfined anger, heavy with emotion. A resolute vow she knew he would never break. She turned her face away from his shoulder, to look up at him, her eyes wet and shining and wide. She opened her mouth, wanting to tell him the strange sayings of her heart. 
	"Darien . . . ?" was all she could say, swallowing hard, holding back the tears that seemed to spring to her eyes for no reason.. He smiled, squeezing her tightly. 
	"Silly meatball head." he teased lightly, causing her to smile defiantly, a bit of her will, her fire, starting to return. Suddenly, Darien's arms around her tightened, a protective lock around her, as something crashed behind her, preceded by a scream.
	"REI!" Serena cried, squirming around in Darien's embrace. Tyrian stood over Rei, energy crackling dangerously around him. Serena closed her eyes, feeling the paralyzing fear come again. She looked up at Darien, his face set in a tight grim lock, his mouth a straight, thin line, his eyes no longer soft and glittering but hard as stone.
	"Give me what is rightfully mine." Tyrian said loudly, his hands opening and closing around a ball of energy. 
	"She isn't' yours." Darien said, his voice dripping with hate. He reluctantly released Serena, rising to his feet, staring deeply into her eyes, telling her silently to stay where she was, to not worry, that he would keep her safe. 
	"No . . . please . . . " she whispered. He gave her a lopsided sardonic grin, shaking his head. How could he not stop that thing? How could he let it be when it was Serena it was after? There was no way he could stop now. 'I'm sorry, but I wont' let you go. I won't' let HIM take you.'
	Tyrian threw the first bolt of energy. And Darien dodged it skillfully. Yet he had no weapon to counter with. He needed to buy some time, to find a small moment to transform, even with her watching. He would tell her anyway, eventually. But Tyrian kept on firing one after another after another successively, his anger at what he had just witnessed, their apparent affection, her choice of that Earth boy over him, giving him strength, leaving Darien no time, no chance to pull out his rose, allowing him time only to dodge each attack despite the screaming protest of his tired muscles.
	Serena closed her eyes, unable to watch as her stomach knotted tightly in fear, her hands wrung together nervously.
	'Let him be all right, let him win, please, please, let him win.' she thought. 'If only I had my brooch, if only.. . . '
	A scream.
	Her eyes jerked open instantly, the wail caught in her throat. She got to her feet, wanting to run to him, as he lay on the ground, struggling to stand, with Tyrian standing over him, the final blow ready in his hands, his eyes bright with evil fury. He looked over at her causally, a sick smile on his face.
	"He won't' stand in our way any longer, Serenity." he stated. Serena stared at him in shock, not believing it, willing Darien to rise, even as Tyrian knocked him down again and again as he tried to stand. 
	"No, Tyrian, no please." she said, not noticing her head shaking back and forth and back and forth again in disbelief, She could not, would not, accept that this was it, the end, the end of Darien, of . . . the end before it had even begun. NO! She would not let this happen! She would not let Tyrian hurt him . . . 
	"Darien isn't' a threat to us Tyrian!" she said desperately, her voice a mad cry. 
	"You forget Serenity. I have seen you! With him!! I have SEEN you two together! You have betrayed me! And now, he must die." 
	"You're wrong!" Serena said walking towards him carefully. "WE didn't . . . I mean, you don't' have to . . . there's no reason for you to . . .Tyrian, please, don't' hurt him." she said, her resolve fading to pleading.
	"I wont' let him have you." Tyrian said, his arm tensing as he prepared to let go of the energy in his palm. Serena grabbed his arm tightly, desperately.
	"Please . . . if I ever meant anything, anything at all, you won't . . ."
	"I'm doing this because of what you mean!" Tyrian yelled angrily, his attention back on Serena. From the corner of his eyes, Tyrian could see Darien struggle to his feet, and he immediately lashed out with his foot, mercilessly kicking Darien back on the ground, nearly unconscious. Serena screamed in horror, wanting to kneel beside him, to heal him to protect him. But, she could not do that, she could not sit at his side, could not heal his wounds. But she could protect him. Even if she wasn't' Sailor Moon, she could, she would, protect him, protect him no matter what, no matter the cost.
	"I, I promise, Tyrian, that you don't' need to worry about him, about him and me. He isn't'," she bit her lip, closing her eyes tightly, her mouth tasting bitter. "He doesn't' mean a thing. He's just . . .he's just there. He's nothing." She hoped that her face wouldn't' betray the screaming of her heart, the way the vicious lie contorted her soul, twisted it painfully, cut her heart, froze her marrow as her soul denied such an accusation. She knew that if she opened her eyes, if he looked into them, he would see the lie in them. Why was it that although she had never said she cared for him, to say she did not felt like blasphemy?
	"How do I know-" 
	"I won't leave you Tyrian. I promise. So you don't' need to hurt him. Because, you don't need to worry. I'm yours, just like you said."
	From below her, someone moaned her name. She tried not to look at him, tried to shut out the sound of his voice, whispering her name in horror, unable to lift himself from the ground to protect her, unable to protect himself. She was strong, strong enough to do this, but if she were to face him, she knew she would not be able to go through with it. 
	'I'm sorry Darien. I'm doing this for you.' she thought wishing that he could hear her. 
	"And if he follows you, if he does not realize that you are mine? I should save us the trouble of-"
	Tears in her eyes, her teeth tearing into the skin of her lips, she threw her arms around Tyrian, pretending that it was just like before, when she had thought he had been the nice, kind guy he had seemed to be back when she had thought he was actually sane. Just like back then. No biggie. Just like that. She could do it. So no tears. Because, if she cried, Darien would die. He would know she was lying, was only lying to save Darien, and then Tyrian would kill him. The tears died before they even broke free.
	"Serena?" Darien asked quietly, his voice a mere gaps of pain, from his injuries, from his heart, he knew not which one. It all seemed the same, seeing her in Tyrian's arms, seeing her run into him, hold him, telling Tyrian that he, Darien, had meant nothing to her. For a moment, he thought he heard her voice, floating in his mind, apologizing, rationalizing what she was doing, that she was trying to save him. But that couldn't' be. And he was already so confused. He tried to stand, tried to make his way to her. Did she love him? Or Tyrian? What was she doing? "Serena?"
	She glanced back at him, stubbornly trying to stand, saying her name. She immediately turned to see Tyrian's face, seeing the lines of fury cut across it. An arm let go of her waist, clenched in anger once again, the energy once again waiting for his command. And Darien was fighting him stubbornly, the fool. Couldn't he see that she was trying to save him? Couldn't' he see that he was making her job harder. Did he have a death wish? Did he want to die? Even if he did, she didn't' care. She would not let Tyrian kill him. He was always too stubborn for his own good. She needed to distract Tyrian, make him forget, make him leave, stop this now, because it was careening too quickly out of her control.
	"He will die princess." Tyrian whispered. 
	"It's not necessary, . . . "She closed her eyes. She didn't' think she could do it, the word so bitter on her tongue. " . . . love." she stood up on her toes, leaning into him, trying to quiet the tightness in her stomach, the tense stirrings of her nerves. 'Just pretend it's not him, pretend this isn't' real . . . a play, pretend you're a movie star, and you're making a movie, and this doesn't' count, this is nothing, but you have to do it anyway, even if you don't' feel anything, even if you hate him, because you're an actress, a wonderful actress, so you have to do it, you have to pretend, because you're an actress, you can do it, you can, because you have to save him, because you can't live if he dies, because you're an actress, because your a hero, because you love him because . . .I'm so, so sorry '
	Serena kissed Tyrian, and Darien's eyes went wide in shock, unable to believe it. Of her own free will she had kissed him. As the world spun, and Darien's resolve his fight suddenly left him, he sunk to the ground in defeat, unable to cry, even thought he wanted to, excuse he had lost that ability so long ago when faced with such a feeling of loneliness, of alone - ness. But this, this was worse. For some reason, this was ten billion times worse than that bleak feeling of misery. He felt as though he could not escape this. She was still kissing him when they disappeared in a flash of light, and he felt as though his insides had withered, dried up. He had loved her, and he had lost her, and now, now it was over, and he was still alone, forever alone. ALONE.

	Cheerful laughter was not what Endymion had expected to hear upon his arrival on the moon. And yet, there she was, smiling and laughing as though nothing had happened, as though life were simple and carefree. As though Tyrian's death had not affected her in the least. It was not what he had expected from her. He had imagined Serenity to be distraught, anguished, and yet, she seemed perfectly all right. Endymion shook his head in confusion.
	"Now what is that look for? You look like you swallowed a . . . a FISH!!!" Serenity said, giggling lightly as she danced back and forth as she and Endymion walked through the gardens. 
	"Serenity, are you sure you're all right?" Endymion asked slowly. Serenity's eyes flashed momentarily.
	"Don't' I look it." she demanded, her voice a tad too forceful.
	"You look wonderful Sere, but that isn't' what I'm asking."
	"I'm fine Endy. Don't' worry. I'm perfectly A OK!!! Or B OK, or maybe C OK - always did wonder where they got that ridiculous A from. Don't' you? Wonder that is." She bubbled, her voice never wavering from the incessant cheerful chatter.
	"Sere . . . " Endymion said, taking hold of one of Serenity's arms and pulling her closer to him, and causing her to stop moving and talking, just looking straight into her quivering blue eyes. Endymion nearly gasped as he looked beyond the charming surface, deeper, to the small rivers being held back with quiet determination.
	"Sere, if you want to talk-"
	"ABOUT WHAT!!" she cried, bowing her head in embarrassment at the uncontrolled outburst.
	"I have nothing to talk about. Nothing at all to say." She said softly. "Why don't' we visit the gardens Endy, or maybe we could-"
	"Sere, you're not all right, are you?" he asked. She looked away.
	"I'm fine." She mumbled. Endymion shook his head, his fingers lightly cupping her face and pulling it back so she was once again looking at him.
	"People die all the time Endy. It's natural. I can't' change any of it. So really, there isn't any reason to be sad. It's such a waste of time to be sad over something I cant' change. All the crying in the world won't' bring him back. I know that. I'm fine. Really, I am." She said, her eyes lowered. "O dear, there I go again. I've sprung a leak. One of these days, I'm going to have to learn how to control those stupid tears. It's silly, really how I start to cry for no reason, even when I'm happy. Perfectly happy." She said, as though trying to convince herself and not doing a very good job of it. She sniffed, then stepped out from Endymion's to begin walking again at a rapid pace.
	"Serenity! Where are you going!' Endymion called, starting to run up to her.
	"I'm going for a walk, since you don't' want to go! Really, go on back to the castle Endy. I just want to look at the roses." She said, quickening her pace. She discreetly glanced over her shoulder, frowning at the worry she saw in Endymion's face. "I hate to make everyone worry! I'm fine! I swear, don't 'worry about it. I'll be back before dinner, OK?" 
	"If that's what you want . . . "
	"It is." She said. "And don't' worry about me! I'm not worth it." she said, dashing off into the darker forest. Endymion nodded, starting to walk back to the castle, until what she had actually said suddenly crashed into him, sending him reeling.
	"Not . . . WORTH IT!" he gasped. Did the princess truly say that? Did she believe that she was unimportant? Didn't' she have any idea that his whole world revolved around her, and yet, she didn't' think she was 'worth it!' He ran back into the garden, looking for her familiar form, golden and shining in the dim sunlight.
	
	He silently crept behind her, only her long yellow tresses and delicate, shaking shoulders visible from his side of the tree.
	"Why am I crying? It won't' change anything. All I'm doing is making everyone worry! I'm a princess, I shouldn't' cry! I can't' cry! But . . . why does this hurt so much? Tyrian . . . " Serenity buried her head in her hands as she began to sob again, her choked cries the only thing to break the silence of the forest. 
	Serenity lifted her head slowly, her ears straining to hear a dim, familiar melody. She smiled faintly, recognizing the tune. It was from her locket, the one she had given Endymion years ago . . . Her smile immediately left her as she realized with alarm that she probably wasn't alone anymore. Her head whipped around, her hair flying, as she looked for him. She could hear his laughter, knew he was there, and yet, still gasped in surprise when he stepped out from behind the thick cluster of trees.
	"Endymion! I thought, I mean, um . . . what are you doing here! You're supposed to be back at the castle!" she said quickly, trying to wipe away her tears, hoping he hadn't' noticed. The last thing she needed now was him thinking she was an immature child who would cry at everything.
	"I didn't' go back." He said simply, almost laughing. Serenity pouted.
	"I could tell that! You wouldn't' have been here otherwise! What I meant to say is, what are you doing here?"
	"I was worried Sere." He said, his voice suddenly soft. 
	"About what?" She asked lightly, as though she were uninterested.
	"You were crying." He said. She shook her head stubbornly.
	"No I wasn't." she said. Endymion smiled.
	"If you say so."
	"Well, I do." She said, her nose turned up in the air, her tear stained cheeks puffed up defiantly. He smiled wanly at her. So admirable. Trying to appear so brave, so nonchalant, when just moments before she had been crying . . .
	"It's all right to feel sad. It's natural Sere." He said. Serenity glared at him.
	"I know that Endy. Of course, I know that. Jeez, what do you think I am, stupid?"
	"Occasionally." He said.
	"Excuse me? What did you say?"
	"I said occasionally. Like now." Endymion said. 
	"What gives you the right . . ." she exclaimed.
	"You're my best friend Sere. That gives me the right. I know you better than anyone else, I think, and I know that you're not like -" he pointed at her, "This. Inside, you're not smiling like you are on the outside."
	"How do you know! You've been away for a long, long time Endy."
	"I still know you Sere. I could never forget you."
	"I would hope not!"
	"So why don't' you talk to me? Why do you keep on trying to hide?" Endymion asked. "Let me help. Just like you helped me when my parents . . . "
	"Because it's not the same!" Serenity cried, her hands flying to her mouth as though they could erase her words.
	"Why not?" 
	"Because . . . because . . . Endy . . . I just, I just . . . " her voice trailed off, her shoulders beginning to shake as she struggled to gain control of her emotions. Almost immediately, Endymion was at her side, protecting her in his embrace, and she felt as though she had no other option but to remain with him, let him comfort her, safe, warm, the pain slowly leaving her.
	"What did I do wrong? Why did he leave? If he loved me, he wouldn't have died. And it's my fault. I'm not worth love. I'm not important. Or else he would have stayed. He wouldn't have died if I had been a better-"
	"That's not how it works Sere." Endy said in a low tone. "In war, good people die, good people leave the ones they are about behind. They leave wonderful families behind even if they had no intention of leaving. There was nothing you could have done Serenity."
	"But, I . . .I wasn't' sure!" Serenity sobbed, burying her head deeper into Endymion's shirt. "I wasn't' sure if I loved him anymore. And then he died! He died and I was such a horrible, horrible fiancée . . . and that last night he was here, that last night when I . . .and you . . .and I, I, I'm guilty of so much. And everyone is worrying so much about me! I don't' deserve any of it! I'm not worth anyone's worry. I should be hurting a million times more than I do. And it still hurts so much. Because he was my first love Endy. My very, very first. I, I think I still loved him, maybe not as well as I should have, but I did, and now he's dead and I, I . . . I don't' want to cry anymore Endy. Don't' let me cry anymore." She said, her voice dissolving as she clutched at his shirt, unseeing. He nodded solemnly, his head resting lightly on hers, as he held her tightly to him.
	"I won't let the hurt get you anymore Sere. I'll fix  everything."
	"Don't' leave me too Endy. I, I don't' think I would be able to stand it." she said softly, her voice a whisper, heavy with exhaustion. 
	"I'm not going anywhere." He said into her hair, kissing the top of her head lightly, as he gathered her into his arms and returned to the castle.

	"Dude, you ok?"
	"OF COURSE HE ISN"T OK CHAD!" Rei yelled hotly at him. 
	"Simmer Rei. I was just asking." Chad said, used to her frequent outbursts. "I think he's starting to come around."
	Rei immediately turned her attention back to Darien, wiping her washcloth across his forehead again as Darien moaned a little, slowly returning to the land of the conscious. 
	"Se . . .re . . .na."
	Chad looked over at Rei, worried. Rei shook her head softly at him, her long black hair whooshing behind her. 
	"Darien, can you hear me?" she asked softly. Darien's eyes fluttered, then slowly opened. Rei smiled wanly at him.
	"Serena . . . Rei . . . where . . . "
	"Shh." She said, shaking her head. 
	"Dude, don't' talk. You're still out of it. Someone must have got you two good." Chad said. Rei shot him a dark angry look.
	"CHAD! GET OUT!" 
	"Whoa there Rei. I'm going, OK? Geez!" Chad said, backing out the door. "I was just trying to help and what do I get-" Rei glared at him again, and Chad scrambled out the door, slamming it shut behind him.
	"Idiot." Rei muttered. She turned back to Darien, who was slowly trying to sit upright.
	"How are you feeling?" Rei asked. Darien shook his head.
	"Serena? Where . . . did she . . . ?
	"I don't' know." Rei said sadly. "I guess she's with Tyrian. I don't' really know." Darien pushed himself up from the head rest.
	"We have to find her! NOW! Before . . . "
	"It wont' be that easy. She left WITH him. Remember? And you," Rei said, pushing Darien gently back onto the pillows, "are hurt. What do you think you can do against him? He's not even human! More like those youma or something."
	"It's better than just sitting here. I can't - "
	"Yes you can. Darien, there just isn't anything we can do."
	"What the hell are we supposed to do then! What if she needs help! What if he's - "
	"Serena is a big girl. She's been in tough situations and has been able to handle herself perfectly fine. We should trust her." Rei said calmly, countering Darien's irrationality. "Besides, she CHOSE to go with him."
	"I refuse to believe that she actually wanted to be with that . . . THING."
	"I'm a bit skeptical myself. I'm sure there was a reason for her to have done it. Probably to save us, distract him or something. But whatever the reason is, we have to let her finish it, or else we might screw things up even more than they already are."
	"She NEEDS me! Rei, what if - "
	"If we get involved, we could blow whatever game she's playing and end up getting her killed! Don't you get it! You're just a human! You cant' just go in there and play hero! You'll end up getting yourself killed, and probably Serena too! What do you think you can do against him? Leave it to someone else, someone who can fight him! Or better yet, let Serena finish what she's started. She must have some sort of plan, even if it is a 'Serena' plan, but it is a plan, and we have to let her try and do this or else she might never come back and be free of Tyrian." Rei said passionately. "As hard as it is, all we can do right now is wait and see."
	Darien shook his head. "I can't do that!" Darien cried. The thought of leaving her alone with Tyrian terrified him. He pushed himself up off the bed, groaning softly in pain as his injuries flared up, yet ignoring it. He had to find Serena before it was too late!
	"I have to find her Rei. I can't just sit around and do nothing when she's in trouble!" Darien said, heading towards the door. Rei lowered her head, not raising it until she heard the door shut behind Darien.
	"I'm not sure I can wait either." She said to herself. "Just please, don't get yourself killed."

	"A cold fish. Damned cold." The noble said indignantly.
	"An absolute prude! Do you know she turned me down? ME! After I offered a day on Neptune! The beaches on Neptune are the greatest in the galaxy and she said-"
	"Who cares what she said! That princess is a bitch. Plain and simple. And you know, deep down, she's no better than a common peasant. I even heard that her father was nothing more than a mere farmer, which is why no one has seen him."
	"O yes, I've heard that one! So true! The crown princess of the moon the daughter of a farmer! You can see it in her face you know. And that hair! It's like straw! Not princess like at all.
	"O, if we start that thread, we can go on forever, about her rough skin, those narrow eyes, that nose, her body . . .I think she could fit into my brother's clothes! No curves at all!"
	"And when she was younger, all that play in the mud! Not lady - like at all! She's like some wild beast! You would have to PAY me to take her out."
	"Well, I only wanted to take her to Neptune because I want to make a treaty with the Queen you know."
	"But of course. No one would actually want to take her out. Except for that prince. Endymoron was it? Scandalous how those two carry on. When she was engaged, I heard that those two-"
	"That those two what?" 
	The group of nobles turned to look at the newcomers, their faces turning a ghostly shade of white.
	"P, p, prince, prince-" 
	"Prince Endymoron." Endymion said darkly, a hint of an evil smile on his face. 
	"I, I . . I mean we, well, you know how it is when, I mean, well, it's just that, well she, we um . . .you know?"
	"No, I don't." Endymion said, walking past them as though they were nothing, Which, to Endymion, they were. 
	I, well, we, that is, should be going right now. Pressing business to attend to at um, away . . . at home, right?" the noble stammered. The others quickly shook their heads. Endymion glared at them.
	"Then go." He said. The men nodded, turning to leave as quickly as etiquette allowed. "O!" Endymion called out. The men slowly turned to look at him.
	"Should I see you near Serenity again, or hear a word out of your mouths that in any way disparages her, well . . . just see that it doesn't' happen again." Endymion said lightly, his hand resting meaningfully on the hilt of his sword. The nobles gulped dryly, eyes glued to Endymion's gloved hand and sword, before racing down the hallway.
	Endymion narrowed his eyes angrily at the retreating forms of the men, before turning towards the door and knocking lightly.
	"Come in."
	Endymion pushed the door open, smiling brightly at Serenity, who was curled up in one of her chairs, all traces of the unpleasantness from the hall gone from his face.
	"Endymion!" Serenity exclaimed, jumping up from her chair, beaming. "I thought you were busy with mother or something today."
	"I was. But I'm not anymore."
	"O! Well that's wonderful! Maybe you'd want to go out for a while, take a walk, or maybe go to the market place or . . . Endymion?" she asked mid sentence, noting his quiet, reserved look. "What's wrong?" Serenity stepped closer to him.
	"Your mother has been worried Serenity."
	"Really? About what?" Serenity asked innocently.
	"Sere, when was the last time you  left he castle?" Endymion asked.
	"Why, just last week we went to that lake. Remember, you practically drowned me!"
	"I meant, when was the last time you went outside of the castle with someone other than me, or the scouts, or your mother?" Endymion asked. Serenity cocked her head, trying to think.
	"Well, I went out with . . . well, you know that prince and I, what's his name again, well we went out . . . I mean, last week I'm sure I must have done something with, um . . . " Serenity turned towards Endymion sheepishly. "You know I can't seem to remember."
	"I can." He said seriously. "The last time was when you went to that ball with Tyrian."
	Serenity's head jerked up forcefully at the name. 
	"So what if it was? What's wrong with that?" she said. "Maybe I just don't' want to talk to anyone else? You know how some of those nobles can be."
	"And I also know that not all of them are stuck up, prissy, stuffy old bags. But you're not even giving them a chance."
	"So what? I don't' see why this is even an issue." Serenity said defensively. 
	"It's an issue because I'm worried about you."
	"Then don't' be worried about me! Why you would even worry about me over this is beyond me."
	"Sere, you've pulled away from everyone. You never go out with anyone other than myself or the girls, and even Rei and the rest of them have been saying that they are worried over you, that you have detached yourself from them somewhat."
	"This is getting ridiculous Endy. I have no idea what you are talking about."
	"I think you do though. I can see it, your light, it's fading. Your smile isn't' nearly as quick, your eyes don't' dance as much as they used to. You've distanced yourself from everyone else, some more than others, but it's noticeable Sere. You've changed."
	"Everyone changes Endymion."
	"I miss the old you Sere. You didn't' need to change, had no reason to change."
	"I'm no different than I was last year! You're making too much out of nothing!" Serenity cried angrily, stepping away from Endymion and looking out her window. 
	"Is it really nothing though Sere? You used to care about everyone in your kingdom. Now, it's as though you're afraid to even look at them. Why? You're barely keeping the friends you've got, and you, who usually makes friends wherever she goes, hasn't' made any new ones, hasn't' even attempted to meet new friends."
	"What if I don't' need any new friends? I've got the scouts, you. I've got a great mother. Why would I need anything else?"
	"And love Sere? What about that?"
	"Who said a girl needs a guy anyway! Mother doesn't have a husband, or even a boyfriend! Why should I?"
	"She had one once. And you are not your mother." Endymion said. He stood beside Serenity at the window, gently turning her head towards his so he could look her straight in the eye. 
	"Why are you hiding yourself away from the people who love you? What is it that you are afraid of?"
	Serenity lowered her gaze, staring at her feet as her eyes began to tremble.
	"Because I, I . . . " she sniffed softly, shaking her head and blinking. "I . . . I'M NOT AFRAID!!!!' she suddenly cried. "Do you hear me? I'm not afraid of . . . I'm not afraid at all!"
	Endymion almost stepped back, shocked by the vehemence of her tone. The shock quickly wore off as he watched her thin shoulders begin to shake, her head lowered. He reached his hand out, touching her chin gently, pushing her head up to look at him. His gaze softened as he looked into her eyes, pooling with crystal tears.
	"Serenity?" he asked softly.
	"I'm not, not, not afraid Endy. I'm not afraid of . . . I'm not!"
	Endymion smiled down at her comfortingly. He reached out for her, his arm snaking around her waist and she turned her startled eyes up towards his, looking up at him in confusion. It quickly gave way to another emotion, causing her face to grow soft. Suddenly, her eyes widened, as though they had learned some deep dark secret in Endymion's eyes, and she gasped, struggling against his arm as he pulled her closer to him.
	"No." She whispered.
	"Serenity-"
	Serenity closed her eyes, trying to shut out his intense blue ones. She could almost feel their gaze burrowing into her. 
	"Sere, I-"
	"Don't' say it!" she cried, pushing herself away from him. Endymion, too startled to realize what exactly was going on, let her go.
	"Don't' say it ever, please, don't' change it, don't' say it." Serenity cried,  terrified of him, as she ran from him, the dull thud of her shoes against the marble echoing back to him. Endymion stared down the hall after her, confused.
	"What have I done now?"

	In another part of the castle, Serenity sat against a wall, her head buried in her hands and resting on her knees.
	"I can't! Please, don't' let me!" she pleaded through her tears. "I don't' want to . . . .I can't go through it again." she sobbed. "Please, don't' let me fall in love again."

	Tuxedo Mask stood silently on the roof of the building, blending in to the dark shadows cast by the night. Like a cat, he leaped from roof to roof, following a sixth sense he did not quite understand. Suddenly, Tuxedo Mask stopped, an ear cocked towards the sky, listening for a silent cry, some hint as to where exactly Serena might be. But . . . nothing. He rested his foot on the ledge of the sky scraper, staring out over the city, top hat in hand, a weary look on his face, his profile illuminated by the soft glow of the moon light.  He was somewhere close and yet, it felt as though he were still a million miles away from her, his unreachable, untouchable princess, his dream . . . his Serena. Sudden movement below him suddenly caught his attention, the soft scraping sounds of rapid movement, and the creak of a door. He jerked his head down to discern the three darkened figures that stood at the back entrance to the building, squinting hard through the small slits of his mask. Girls, in short skirts that were brightly colored, their features unrecognizable, and yet grim in the darkness. Tuxedo Mask set his hat back upon his head and took a step back from the edge so the girls would not see him. But, what were the Sailor Scouts doing here? Looking for Serena? But why? 
	When he was sure that the scouts had entered the building, Tuxedo Mask silently leapt to the ground, following them into it. He could barely make out their hushed voices, marred by a seriousness that he had never heard in them before. 
	"Are you sure that thing of yours is right Mercury?" 
	"I'm positive of it Jupiter. This 'thing' should lead us right to Serena. It should be able to track her where ever she is as long as she's got her- "
	"But she's not wearing the damn thing!" Mars whispered furiously, her voice still carrying the force of a scream. "I saw her at the park when Tyrian took her and she wasn't wearing it!"
	"I know. I'm assuming Tyrian took it from her." Mercury said, typing some more on her hand held computer. "Which means that we will be lead to Tyrian who-"
	"Who just happens to have Serena with him! So if we find Tyrian we find Serena, and then we can kick his pastry puff butt!" Jupiter said enthusiastically.
	"SHH!! BE QUIET!" Mars said, turning on Jupiter. "Let's not tell the whole world that we're here!"
	"I think it's too late for that girls."
	The scouts whirled around at the new, unexpected voice, thier attacks glowing in their hands, ready to fire.
	"WAIT WAIT WAIT!!! I'm a good guy!" Tuxedo Mask cried, holding his hands out in front of him. The girls all gave a gasp of relief, as thier attacks died away.
	"You almost gave me a heart attack, cape boy." Jupiter said, leaning against the wall for support.
	"You should really try and be more quiet. I could hear you and I was outside." Tuxedo mask said sternly. Although it was dark, he was sure he could see all three of the scouts blush.
	"And what were you doing out there?" Mars asked. 
	"I could ask the same of you." Tuxedo mask said.
	"No fair! WE asked first." Jupiter said defensively. Tuxedo mask nodded. 
	"I'm trying to find a . . . friend. For a friend."
	"O." Mars said.
	"And what about you? What are you doing here?"
	"We think a youma has taken a girl and we are going to rescue her." Mars said confidently. Jupiter narrowed her eyes in confusion.
	"A youma? I didn't' know he was a you-" Mars discreetly jabbed Jupiter in the ribs, which effectively quieted the girl.
	Tuxedo Mask smiled at the three . . . wait! Only three?!?!?!
	"Where is Sailor Moon!?!?" Tuxedo Mask cried in concern. The Mars and Jupiter looked at each other, unsure of what to do or say.
	"Well, uh she um . . . " Jupiter stammered.
	"You know how the super hero biz is like and she um . . . take out or something . . . .or was it her spatula, or . . . well, she is at um-"
	"I've know where they are!" Mercury cried out triumphantly, interrupting Mars. "Serena and Tyrian should be right over-"
	"Did you say Serena!" Tuxedo mask said, trying to get a closer look at the computer screen. "Where is she?!?!
	"Were you looking for Serena too?!?!" Mars asked, although from his expression, she already knew her answer.
	"Why were you looking for her?" Jupiter asked.
	"Because I . . . a friend asked me to find her." Tuxedo mask said. "Now Hurry! We have to get her before Tyrian -"
	"RIGHT! LET'S GO!" the scouts cried, racing down the darkened halls of the building as directed by Mercury. Mars and Mask had taken the lead in the chase, followed by Mercury, who was constantly shouting directions, while Jupiter took care of the rear, cautiously scanning for any creatures that would dare to attack them from behind. Before long, Jupiter could feel herself growing weary. The hallways seemed as though they would never end. But, to save Serena . . . she refused to let herself give in to her exhaustion and pushed ahead, turning forward with renewed determination, and pushing on to walk beside Mars up front.
	"Well?" Jupiter asked impatiently.
	"Well what?" Mars asked.
	"When we gonna get her and get out?"
	"I think we're almost there guys." Mercury said.
	"Then lets get going." Jupiter cried, sprinting up ahead. Tuxedo Mask took a step towards her, reaching out for her.
	"Wait! Jupiter! You don't' know what's ahead!" Mask warned, but Jupiter didn't' seem to hear him.
	"Great, she's probably gonna run into something and get herself killed!" Mars said, exasperated.
	"I don't' have any readings for . . . "
	"For what Mercury? Speak up." Mars snapped, squinting out into the dim hallway Jupiter had run down, not even bothering to look in Mercury's direction.
	"RROOOOOOAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
	Something sharp sliced through the air, leaving a high pitched, whistling wail of air in its wake.
	"RUN!!!!!" Mercury cried, her voice edged with fear, as she pushed past Mars and Mask. Both turned around at the sounds, staring face to face with what they could only guess was a youma, a dark, hairless dog-like creature that stood on two legs, with long claws adorning each hand.
	"Guess Jupiter had the right idea after all." Mars said dryly. Mask grabbed her hand pulled her down the corridor with him, the creature following closely behind them.
	"Over here!" Mercury called, popping her head out from behind a door. Mars and Mask skidded into the stairwell where Jupiter and Mercury had been hiding, slamming the door behind them right in the youma's face. 
	"Where now?" Mars panted, breathless, as she leaned against the door, both to keep the youma from breaking it down, and to support herself.
	"We go up." Mercury said, pointing up the stairwell. 
	"We'd better hurry then." Jupiter said. "I don't think that door will hold that thing for much longer. " As if to emphasize her point, the youma started pounding on the door and roaring in anger even more loudly than before.
	"C'mon then." Mask said, hopping up the stairs two at a time, not stopping until he had reached the roof. He motioned for the girls to follow him then locked the steel door to the stairwell.
	"Do you think it'll leave us alone?" mars asked. Mask shook his head.
	"Not likely."
	"And I'll bet there are more of them too." Mercury added. Jupiter shook her head, pounding her fist against the wall.
	"Serena is still in there! Now what are we supposed to do?!?! And how are we supposed to get off this roof?!?!"
	"We have to get back in there and find Serena." Tuxedo Mask said, a his face set in a grim look. 
	"O. That totally explains everything. Wow, what a big help! Thanks for the advice." Sailor Mars said sarcastically. "What we need is a plan."
	"Just kill the bad guys, grab Serena, and kick Tyrian's butt. That sounds like a plan." Jupiter said, mashing one fist into her palm.
	"And how would you suggest we go about killing those mutated Kujo's out there?" Mars asked.
	"It's not like we're helpless you know. We have our attacks. I mean, if we were just fighting as regular humans and stuff, sure, then we would be goners for sure, but we're not. We've got powers so why not use them. I say we just go for it and stop hiding. Let's get it over with." Jupiter said. 
	"That might work. Ambush them. We'd have the element of surprise. They wouldn't' expect us to be looking for them." Mercury said. "I cant' find a weakness in them, but I'm sure we can beat them, and if not, we can't just stay up here. Serena is in danger, that we know. Every second counts."
	"Then let's be on guard, ok. And be careful." Tuxedo Mask said, cautiously approaching the door. This was it. He was going to find Serena. Finally. He would have her with him.  He closed his eyes as he placed his hand on the door handle and . . . 
	The door suddenly blasted back, flying halfway across the roof, with Tuxedo Mask still pinned under it. The scouts all gasped in horror as the door landed hard on the ground, trapping an unmoving Tuxedo Mask beneath it. Mars jerked her head up towards the door, her hair flying wildly behind her. One, two three four, five, six seven sets of glowing eyes moving steadily towards them, black, hulking shapes in the darkness, giving way to the forms of the . . . . creatures!!! Seven of them, and only three scouts now! Mars narrowed her eyes at them, ready for the defensive. The other two scouts joined her, slowly standing and momentarily forgetting the injured Tuxedo Mask.
	"Well, the sooner we kill them, the sooner we find Serena." Mars said. Jupiter nodded.
	"Then let's make this fast."
	"MERCURY BUBBLES BLAST!!!" Mercury cried, as the rooftop was shrouded in the dense mist. 
	"Quick, let's get them before the bubbles wear off and we've lost the surprise." Mars said.
	"MARS FIRE SOUL!"
	The fire raced towards its unsuspecting  target, blasting it in the chest. The creature stumbled back, roaring in pain, yet did not fall. It swayed on its feet, struggling to stand tall, then raised its head and howled. Mars backed away from it, trying to blend into the mist, but the bubbles were quickly dissipating, and she realized with horror that the creatures could see her! Suddenly, the glow of another pair of eyes, and another, and another, surrounded her, as four of the youmas stalked closer and closer to her. Mars raised her hands for another attack, unwilling to give in so easily, to lose before she had hardly begun.
	"Mars Fire Soul!"
	Mars didn't' realize she had been screaming at the creatures, trying to make her attacks more effective, the terror dripping from her voice as she realized that her attack was nothing more than a pin prick, or an annoying bug to these things. They were still coming closer and closer and closer . . . 
	They suddenly stopped, staring at a curious object at their feet. A single rose. Mars looked up with renewed hope, to see Tuxedo mask standing on the ledge. He jumped down beside her silently, another rose ready in his hand, as he let loose a barrage of flowers upon the creatures. Most were batted away, but some pricked the youmas, poking at their skin painfully, or gouging an eyeball. The moment's distraction was all Tuxedo mask needed to grab Mars and jump away with her safely, bringing her near the rest of the scouts, who were both doing their best to battle the remaining three creatures, and losing to them.
	"JUPITER THUNDER ZAP!" Jupiter cried, dodging a slashing claw as soon as she had released her attack.
	"Mercury Bubbles Blast!" Mercury called, pushing a youma a few feet backwards. Mercury looked over at Jupiter.
	"You all right?" she asked.
	"Never better." Jupiter said through gritted teeth, as two youmas flanked both her sides and, with claws bared, slashed mercilessly down at her.  Jupiter dropped to the ground and rolled away, hopping to her feet as fast as she could.
	"Jupiter Thunder Zap!!!!" she cried again, aiming for the two. "Just die already." she muttered. But the creatures were barely fazed. Jupiter made a  small sound of frustration, making a decision. She ran straight towards them, her hands out in front of her, ignoring their own raised arms that were quickly descending down upon her. 
	"JUPITER THUNDER ZAP!" she cried, sending the lightening at their eyes. The creatures howled out loud in pain, their arms slashing blindly at the air. Jupiter ducked her head, trying to get out of there unscathed.
	"Gotcha you sons of ARGHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" 
	Jupiter put her hand to her shoulder, feeling it go moist and warm all at once upon contact with her shoulder. The work of those killer claws, no doubt.  She bit down on her lip, ignoring the shooting pain, as she looked back up at the two youmas. They had to be dead by now! There was no way they would have survived such a direct hit . . . .
	"NO! I GOT YOU! DAMMIT!! YOU SHOUDL BE DEAD!" Jupiter screamed, as she saw the two youmas still standing. She backed away slowly, feeling numb. How could they still be alive? She didn't' understand. There was no way the scouts would win this. They were going to die and Serena . . . and Serena . . .she would not fail Serena. 
	"Jupiter, are you all right?" Mars asked, as her friend backed up into her. 
	"You're bleeding!" Mercury exclaimed, her attention momentarily taken away from the five youma that they had been facing. 
	"I won't let Serena down!" Jupiter said forcefully. Tuxedo mask jerked his head over in her direction, the tone of her voice startling. Was Serena that important to Sailor Jupiter, to all the scouts? OF course she was. Serena made all who knew her love her. And now she was trapped in this situation, and there was no way they would win against monsters that seemed to have the toughest armor for skin, creatures who were immune to their attacks. No. He wouldn't let it end that way. She would be safe, no matter the cost. He would save her, he would beat Tyrian and all of his monsters. He would not let Serena down.
	Roses rained down on the youmas, stopping them in their tracks as they waited for the rain of flowers to stop.  The hesitation on their part was all Jupiter needed as she let loose another attack.
	"JUPITER THIUNDER ZAP!"
	The lightning was more powerful than any of her others, her whole heart and soul driving the current. 
	The lightning bolt missed. The creatures dodged it, and the power of it only grazed the skin of the creatures. Jupiter's eyes widened, unbelieving, unable to believe that she had missed and Serena would die because of her and . . . 
	Suddenly, behind the youmas, the wall exploded where the lightening bolt had hit, chunks of metal flying up into the air. Then, the tank which had ended up as the target of Jupiter's rage exploded, rocking the building, fire rising into the sky.
	"What's going on?" Mars asked.
	"I think that was the gas for the building." Mercury yelled, trying to be heard over the racket of the exploding objects.
	"Look, the youma's are on fire!" Jupiter cried happily, pointing at the creatures. The gas from the tanks, which were now burning uncontrollably, had covered the creatures, which had been standing right in front of the tanks, setting them on fire. 
	"SO will we if we don't' get off of this roof." Tuxedo mask yelled, pulling Jupiter back to the edge of the roof with him. The rest of the scouts followed, covering their heads with their arms as the ran.
	"This building is gonna blow any second now!" Mercury said. "We have to get off of here!"
	"But the door . . . " Jupiter said, pointing over to the door, behind the wall of fire of the tank.
	"We'll have to jump then!" Mars said.
	"But Serena!"" Tuxedo mask said, looking back at the building. "She's still inside! WE have to-" the building suddenly shook, knocking the scouts and Tuxedo mask to the ground.
	"We cant' leave Serena!" Mars said, her eyes illuminated in the fire, bright red and black, and fear filled.
	"I don't' know what-"
	Suddenly, a youma, still burning, ran towards them, it's hand a mess of flame and claw, a dangerous mix. Tuxedo Mask threw a rose at it, trying to stall it, when again, the building lurched, and the roof tipped, sending the scouts careening toward the edge. The sound of shattering glass, and the squeal of twisting metal filled the night. The youma slid past the scouts, slipping right off the roof with an angry cry. The scouts were helpless but to follow its example, as they too lost their footing, trying to grab desperately for something, anything, on the roof to hold on to. 
	Tuxedo mask slammed into Mars pinning her against the half way broken ledge of the roof, keeping her on the roof. Mercury, who had been holding onto Mars, and Jupiter, who had been holding onto Mercury also slammed hard into the ledge, which moved precariously but did not give way.
	"Get up!" Tuxedo mask ordered, The scouts did, gingerly.
	"THE ROOF IS SLIDING! WE'RE GONNA FALL!" Jupiter cried, lookign out fearfully over the ledge as their part of the  roof began to come off the rest of the building
	"WE have to jump." Tuxedo Mask said. "When I give the cue, just jump as far as you can."
	"But-" Jupiter began, but a stern look from Tuxedo mask shut her up.
	"Just do it! Or you'll die."
	"Serena's still in there." Mars said quietly, looking at the building that was now on fire. The roof lurched again, and she held onto the ledge to try and keep her balance.
	"Once we get down, I'm going in after her. Don't' follow me. I don't' need to try and take care of more than Serena." Tuxedo Mask said starkly. The tone of his voice made it clear that there was no arguing on the subject. 
	"But-" Mars began.
	"OHMIGODOHMIGODOHMIGOD! The roof is falling! WE'RE FALLING!! OHMIGOD OHMIGOD OHMIGOD!" Jupiter screamed, as suddenly, they were all plummeting through the air. Mercury was barely aware that sound was coming from her voice as she just stared at the ground coming up fast on her. Mars looked at Mask, waiting for his cue.
	"OHMIGOD!" Jupiter screamed, her eyes clenched tightly shut.
	"NOW! JUMP!" Tuxedo Mask yelled.
	Jupiter didn't' open her eyes until she felt the harsh, jolting pain of iron below her. She knew her legs would be bruised tomorrow from the . . . fire escape?!?! that they had landed on. Jupiter gingerly peered over the edge of the fire escape, some 10 stories up in the air, looking at the shattered remains of what was left of the roof as it hit the ground. Had they still been on it, they would have all been dead. Jupiter whirled around, making sure that everyone had made it. Groaning in pain and struggling to get up, dirty and sooty, sat Mercury, Mars and Tuxedo Mask. Jupiter gave them a confident smile.
	"You made it! WE MADE IT!" She cried. Tuxedo mask nodded, quickly getting to his feet.
	"Serena." he said quietly, looking at the burning building. He took a step towards the fire escape. He would rescue her. Rescue her and tell her everything. Tell her how much he cared, tell her who he was, what he had been feeling, tell her he . . . tell her he loved her. His future was there, right in front of him, in that building.
	Then, the building exploded in a huge fireball.
	"SERENA!"
	"OHMIGOD!"
	"PLEASE, NO!"
	Tears leapt to the eyes of the scouts, as the saw the fireball consume the entire building, the metal structure collapsing to the ground in a fiery heap. Tuxedo Mask gripped the bar tightly, feeling the metal bend inwards, staring at the sight in shock.
	"No."
	The fire danced in his glazed eyes, the blue now red and orange, his mask sooty, his face white and devoid of everything and anything. She . . . she . . . she had been in . . . .she had been in the building!!! IN THE BUILDING!!!
	"NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

	Serenity couldn't help but watch Endymion from her balcony and smile. He was practicing, preparing to go back to Earth. He was needed to go back to battle. She had kept him for far too long, almost a month and a half. He brushed away a strand of his hair, then resumed lifting with the sword practice, a serious look on his face. She giggled. Serious Endymion. She liked him better when he was being silly, and not so serious all the time. Serenity sighed, propping her head up on her hand as she watched him, smiling even more. Endymion laughed, a broad grin breaking out on his face as he starting swinging the sword around and around above his head. Serenity had never seen a move like that . . . no . . . he was playing. And every time he smiled, Serenity smiled, every time he laughed, Serenity laughed. He was just so cute and . . . Serenity immediately turned away, her eyes wide. 
	"What was I thinking!" she gasped. She shakily got up, flustered, and ran into her bedroom.
	Below, Endymion turned to glance up at her balcony. All he saw were her curtains fluttering behind her.

	"You think you can convince them that it was not an accident?"
	"Prince Tyrian's death was not an accident. It was a willful act of violence against the prince."
	"And you believe you can convince the Queen and the other rulers of the Silver Millenium of this?"
	"Yes."
	"And you believe that they will believe that the perpetrator is-"
	"YES! I've told you already, yes."
	"Then I trust your judgement to make sure that Prince Tyrian's death will be avenged."
	"It will sir. Trust me, it will."

	Serena jerked her head up as Tyrian slammed the door to her room behind him angrily. He didn't' look happy. She hoped he didn't' notice her trembling as she looked at him, biting down on her lip to contain her tears. 
	'I just want to go home.' she thought sadly. 'Darien, where are you? Please help me.'
	"I thought I could trust you Serenity!" Tyrian yelled, his face just inches from hers. Serena backed away, but Tyrian grabbed her head in his hands, holding her close to him, leaving her no escape from his crazy eyes.
	"You, you can Tyrian." she stammered, swallowing hard. What was he so angry about? What had she done? And what would happen to her now?
	"Those scouts of yours attacked me! They blew up one of my buildings! In an attempt to find you no doubt!"
	"They're my friends! They wouldn't just abandon me if they thought I was in trouble."
	"Well, you are with me! YOU ARE NOT IN ANY DANGER AT ALL!!!"
	"Sure I'm not." Serena muttered under her breath. 
	What I want to know is, how did they know where to look for you!" Tyrian asked, his voice low. Serena shook her head.
	"I don't know. I swear, I have no idea how they knew where to look." she said, her voice soft, pleading.
	"The only way they could have known what building I owned is if someone told them!"
	"I wonder who that was." Serena lightly commented. Tyrian narrowed his eyes at her.
	"I can't' trust you Serena. I thought I could, but I can't. You told them!" Tyrian cried angrily, raising a hand. Serena instantly moved back, feeling a lump in her throat. 
	"Please, Tyrian, I swear, I am totally loyal to you. I-"
	"And I was thinking, that perhaps the best way to get rid of the problem is to kill off the source."
	"NO!" Serena cried, jumping up from the chair she had been sitting on. "Don't' you dare touch them! Don't hurt them! I didn't' tell them anything! You leave them alone! I'm here, aren't' I! So don't' you hurt them!"
	Tyrian laughed at the outburst.
	"See, you do care for them still. That my dear, is the problem." Tyrian said, smiling evilly. "But don't' worry, I will cure you of that affliction."

	"Serenity! What do you expect me to tell him! That you're washing your hair- again! This is the fifth time TODAY! He probably thinks you've turned into a prune. PERMANENTLY!!!"
	"SO! What's wrong with prunes?" Serenity retorted. Sailor Mars threw her hands up in despair.
	"He wants to see you and you've been avoiding him all day! You're doing it to him now!"
	"Doing what?" Serenity asked. "I'm not doing anything! I just don't' feel like seeing Endymion today."
	"You haven't felt like seeing Prince Endymion all week." Mars said. "You're pushing him away Serenity. Just like you've been pushing all of us away - "
	"I AM NOT PUSHING ANYONE AWAY!" Serenity yelled. Then, lowering her voice. "Can't I just be alone for a while? All I want is a little time to myself."
	"Sere," Mars said, taking one of Serenity's hands in her own, "you know that's not the case. There's something more to this that I just don't understand. But Endymion is leaving soon. Don't' you want to at least say good bye to him?"
	"I don't' know Rei. I do but . . . "
	"But what Sere. You can tell me." Serenity looked down, away from Sailor Mar's penetrating eyes which were desperately searching for an answer.
	"I, I just don't' want to see him. Please. I just want to be alone."
	"Sere," Mars said, her voice serious, "at this rate you will be alone. Forever." Mars stood up, heading for the door. "I guess I'll tell Endymion that you're washing your hair again. But don't' expect him to ask for you again Sere. I know I wouldn't."
	"Rei, I don't' mean it like that!"
	"Enjoy your solitude Serenity."

	A light knocking on his door caught Prince Endymion's attention.
	"Your majesty?"
	"Come in." Endymion said, running a hand through his hair to tame it. An advisor from Earth stepped in, looking pale and nervous.
	"Your majesty." the advisor stammered. Endymion nodded.
	"Yes, I am. I think we've established that. Now what is it?"
	"Sir, I've got a report. From Earth. About the war." The man said, pulling papers from his bag.
	"Yes, I suppose that is what the report would be about. Let me see it." Endymion took the papers from the advisor's hands, scanning them quickly, his brows furrowing in concentration. He looked up suddenly.
	"Is it truly . . . that bad?" he asked, unable to believe the report.
	"Sir, I'm sorry, but Beryl  . . . her power is incredible."
	"But so many lives! Our armies cant' have-"
	"They are but one third as large as they once were sir. And shrinking every day."
	"My God." Endymion said, sinking into a chair and closing his eyes, fists clenched. " . . . Beryl . . . "
	"Your majesty."
	"What is it?"
	"I would not advise your returning to fight."
	"And why not!" Endymion said, rising angrily to look at the presumptuous little man before him. "If anything, this report shows how much I am needed on Earth. I have to go back, immediately, and fight alongside my people!"
	"Sir," the man began. Endymion glared at him, causing the advisor to swallow nervously, but he continued. "If you go back  you probably will not . . . will not . . . this will most likely be the last time you will be on the moon again."
	Endymion looked at his advisor long and hard. As king, out in the front line of battle, a major target for the enemy, against an enemy that they were losing badly to, even he knew that he would be a target, that Beryl would try and kill him. And, he knew, from the reports, that his own death was a very real and probable possibility.
	"Sir, if you don't' mind me saying, perhaps there is some way you could stay here, remain out of the battle."
	"But my people!" Endymion said, shaking his head slowly. No, he could not abandon them. He would die first than allow his own people to die in a war in which he himself would not fight in.
	"Then, perhaps we should surrender to Beryl. Stop this bloodshed and destruction."
	"That is not an option." Endymion said, his voice hard. "I will go to Earth and fight with my people against Beryl."
	"And there is nothing I can say or do that can change your mind? Nothing that could possibly make you stay here, safe, as the last heir to the Earth Kingdom."
	"There is . . . nothing, nothing here, that would stop me from going." Endymion said, closing his eyes. "And even if there were, my decision would be the same."
	"Then in four days, you will depart?"
	"Yes." Endymion said, taking a deep breath. In four days he would leave. Perhaps, the last days he would ever spend on the moon, with Serenity. The odds were, he would die down there. But if he did die, he would take Beryl with him, stop her from even thinking of coming near the moon kingdom, and Serenity.
	"Then sir, the Queen would like to throw a party in your honor before you go. In two days, if that is all right."
	"It is." Endymion said. "Now leave me. I have things to think over."
	The advisor bowed to the Earth King. "As you wish sir." and left. When the advisor had gone, Endymion leaned back in his chair, pulling out the familiar locket that was never far from him. Opening it up, he let the sweet chords surround him, comfort him. Was this all he would ever have of Serenity? Would she even care that he was leaving? In the last few days she had not even looked at him, had hidden from him. She refused to even speak to or of him. Perhaps, it was never meant to be. Perhaps he was meant to die down there, and Serenity, to have a life of her own, without him. Besides, if he were to die down there, it would be better that she not lose anyone else important to her. Let her love live longer than he planned to live. Become resigned to the fact that she does not love you, and never will. Endymion clasped the locket close. 
	"Ah, but Serenity, I love you and always will."

	"Maybe Rei was right." Serenity said to herself. Endymion had been ignoring her all night, staying as far away from her as she was staying from him. Their combined efforts created an enormous gap and Serenity felt the overwhelming power of the separation. Sighing, she leaned back in the chair. She missed him, even thought she wanted to run from him. Perhaps, she had lost him, due to her apparent indifference to him. Perhaps she had lost him, allowed herself to lose him, her closest friend, the most important person . . . 
	"Serenity?"
	Serenity looked up, opening her eyes, which had formerly been closed in thought.
	"Mother." she said, smiling. Her mother returned the look, then, her face returned to one of worry and concern.
	"Serenity, is anything the matter?"
	Serenity shook her head, laughing weakly.
	"Of course not. Why should it be? This is a really . . . lovely party."
	"Thank you dear. But," the Queen's eyes swept the room, then rested back on her forlorn daughter. "You haven't' been enjoying it much. You haven't' danced at all and I don't' think I've seen you eat a thing!"
	"I'm on a diet." Serenity said with a smile. The queen laughed, bending down to kiss Serenity's nose.
	"MOTHER!" Serenity cried in embarrassment, turning her head round to make sure no one had seen her mother's public display of affection.
	"You're blushing dear."
	"I SHOULD BE BLUSHING! YOU KISSED ME! IN THE MIDDLE OF A BALL!" Serenity said angrily, trying to will her skin color back to its natural color.
	"Even if you're a princess, I can still give my baby a kiss."
	"O Mother!" Serenity said, exasperated. Her mother laughed, taking hold of Serenity's arm.
	"I do love you dear. Now would you care for a walk with me. I could use some air."
	"As long as you don't kiss me again." Serenity said with a smile as her mother led her out to the balcony.

	"Prince Endymion!" 
	Endymion turned around, startled at the sound of his name being said in such an accusatory manner.
	"Rei?" he asked, looking at the scout, puzzled.
	"This is a party held in YOUR honor, and what are you doing?" she said, pointing a finger in his face. Endymion looked at it, then back up at her face.
	"I'm sitting, in case you couldn't tell."
	"YOU ARE DISRESPECTING THE QUEEN!! You don't' even look like you're enjoying yourself!"
	"I'm not, really. Parties aren't' my thing. I just want to return to Earth as soon as possible."
	"WHY YOU!!!" she said, steam almost coming out of her ears. "How dare you disrespect Queen Serenity like that!"
	Endymion's jaw dropped, as he got up from his chair.
	"No, no no! You have it all wrong. I don't' mean any dis-"
	"Now Prince Endymion, you get up right now from that chair and take a walk with me and act like you're having the best time of your life and I don't want to hear another word our of you!" Mars sai,. pulling forcefully on Endymion's arm and dragging him out to the balcony with her.

	"Beautiful." Serenity commented. Her mother smiled.
	"What is dear?" her mother asked, standing by her daughter's side at the edge of the balcony.
	"The Earth. It shines so much, and it's colors are so vibrant."
	"Hard to believe there is a war going on, a war that is destroying the beauty of that planet." Queen Serenity said solemnly. Serenity nodded.
	"And Endymion will go back to that planet in two days."
	"I know mother." Serenity said quietly, playing with a strand of her hair.
	"It's really a long way from the moon. He won't' return for a long time."
	"I know that too." Serenity said, her voice sounding so far away and lost. Serenity closed her eyes, lost in her thoughts, never noticing her mother slip away.
	
	"Endymion paced the balcony, waiting for Sailor Mars to return. 
	"Only a minute to get some drinks, she said. Don't' go anywhere. I'll be right back, she said. Stupid girl!" Endymion muttered to himself. So now he was stuck on some balcony, waiting for the silly girl to come back, and it had already been twenty minutes!
	"All right, that's it! I'm sick of being out here! I'm leaving. Your loss Rei." Endymion said, throwing his hands up in defeat. He started to walk a ways down the balcony, taking in the night sky. A perfect night, the stars shining silver, the Earth gorgeous and serene. And then, his eyes swept across the most beautiful sight of all, the sight that made his breath catch in his throat, rendering motionless.

	"Your majesty! Look at that!" Sailor Mars whispered happily, peering out from behind a bush. The Queen smiled.
	"I see, Sailor Mars." she said.
	"Do you think they'll-"
	"He loves her, that much is obvious. And," Queen Serenity said, pausing briefly, "I am sure my daughter loves him as well. It was simply a matter of bringing the two together. Which is why we came in to help them along."
	"Do you think this will work?" Sailor Mars said, her eyes glued to the picture of Endymion just staring admiringly at the princess, who still stood, silent and melancholy, at the balcony edge, her eyes closed tight in thought.
	"I hope. It may be . . . their last, their only chance, though I pray it is not." Queen Serenity said, her voice tinged by sadness. Sailor Mars looked at her queen.
	"I'm sure this will work. Just look at him. She can't' deny what she's been hiding for so long. I've seen her. I know this will get them together. But quite honestly your majesty, I never thought that you would play such a game."
	The Queen laughed, looking at the scout with shining eyes. 
	"And why not! Just because I'm a Queen now doesn't mean I can't enjoy playing matchmaker. Just who do you think set up your cousin and that lovely young boyfriend of hers?"
	"Um, your majesty," Sailor mars said nervously, "My cousin and he broke up two weeks ago."
	"OH! O my!" the Queen said, turning her attention back to her daughter and Endymion. "Perhaps we should give them some privacy." The Queen said, changing the subject quickly. Mars nodded, and the two silently returned to the ball.

	"Serenity." Endymion said softly. Serenity's eyes snapped open, turning to face him. She quickly turned her head to look for her mother, but could not find her.
	"Have, have you seen my mother?" Serenity asked. Endymion shook his head.
	"I didn't' see her. I was just getting . . . a breath of fresh air and . . . then I'm going to go back in and . . ."
	Serenity wanted to open her mouth, to say something, something other than what her mind screamed at her to say, ignoring her heart, to say something other than what she did say.
	"Maybe I'll see you inside then."
	"Um, yes, maybe." Endymion said blankly. Her tone was so cold, so unemotional, so automatic. Never had she treated him like that! Even their friendship was no more! He bowed his head, turning to go back inside the castle, when another beauty caught his eye once again. The Earth, his home, seemed to be more beautiful than he had ever remembered it.
	Serenity immediately noticed the sudden change in Endymion, and immediately her heart began to beat a little faster at his stiff shoulders, his painfully straight posture. And, worry crept into her heart, irrational worry at the sudden change in him.
	"Endymion!" she said, softly yet urgently. "What is it?"
	"The Earth." He whispered, his gaze locked on it. "There's something . . . magical almost . . . about it tonight."
	"Maybe because you're going back home to it." Serenity said, watching him without realizing her own actions.
	"Maybe." Endymion said, staring out at his home. From out here, one couldn't even tell that a war was going on. From out here, it looked like the home he remembered from childhood, prosperous, beautiful, peaceful.
	"It's so far away." she commented, now staring at the Earth as well. "You'll be so far away."
	Endymion broke his gaze away from the Earth to look at her.
	"Yes, princess, I will." he said coolly, turning away from her, the magic spell of the Earth forgotten. Serenity glanced up at him, feeling in her bones the changed tone of his voice, harsh now, rough. The same tone he used towards everyone else except for her. Until now. She looked at him, her eyes squinting in confusion.
	"Endymion?" she asked. He shook his head, turning from her.
	"I will be far away, wont' I. Not that it matters much. Not to you." He said casually. Serenity's eyes opened wide in shock.
	"Of course it matters Endy! Why, you, I, we've been friends since forever! Of course it matters to me that you're going away!"
	"Does it now Princess? This has been the most we've spoken to each other in a week!"
	"I, I've been busy!" she said, not looking at him.
	"I know, I know. You've had to wash your hair. And I must say," he said, with a sardonic grin. "It looks very clean."
	"Endymion! I didn't' mean to make you angry, I've just had things to do and-"
	"And you haven't' spoken to me this entire night! What did you have to do here? You've been alone this entire time and you did not talk to me once! ONCE SERENITY! I leave in two days and my oldest and closest friend cannot even find the time to talk to me." 
	"I didn't' mean to." Serenity said, her voice quiet. 
	"Yes you did. You've been avoiding me for a long time Sere. Hiding from me, pushing me away! Just like you're doing to everyone else! I am sorry, but I cannot stand not . . . I thought I could deal with you, that you would grow out of it, if I waited long enough, but my time . . . I just can't Serenity. I can't do this with you, not when time is so short!"
	"I don't' see why you're so angry!" Serenity cried, throwing her hands up into the air.  Endymion laughed, throwing his head back.
	"Angry! You think I'm angry! Princess, you have not seen me angry before. I'm not angry." he said. Then his voice lowered, "I'm hurt Sere. Nothing more. I'm hurt, and in two days I go off to . . . in two days I leave. You've hurt me Serenity."
	Serenity's eyes flashed in anger, anger at him and his selfishness, anger at herself and her weak heart. 
	"I didn't' mean to Endymion. I just can't, I can't-"
	"You cant' what Serenity? I can't' stand you ignoring me like you have, knowing you don't' care for me at all!"
	"Of course I care for you! You're-"
	"Being unfair? Unreasonable?" Endymion demanded, taking hold of Serenity's shoulders as she stared up at him with wide, shocked eyes. "You're actions betray your true emotions Serenity. The tone of your voice shows what you truly feel about me!"
	"That's not true at all! I, I . . . you're my friend and I care about you and-"
	"And I love you Serenity." Endymion cried, forgetting himself for the moment, and instantly regretting his brash words. Gods, had he truly said it? Shock set in as his hands slowly let go of her shoulders, his head dropped low and his voice went dull. "And I cant' stand to be lied to about this, so stop making it so hard! Stop lying about what you really think."
	"Endymion! Don't' say that, please, you don't' know what you're' saying." Serenity pleaded. "Don't' change things! I can't. I just can't."
	"I had to tell you before it was too late Serenity. Before I left. I wanted you to know what I felt, and that, even though you might hate me now, I will always love you. That's why this hurts so much Sere. Because of how I feel."
	"Endymion, take it back! Don't' do this to me!"
	"Do what Sere? I've done nothing. And in two days, you wont' have to deal with me." Endymion said. Serenity shook her head emphatically, forcefully, her eyes blinking hard to hold back the tears. Endymion's face softened at the look of misery on hers, and pulled her close, a hand resting tenderly on a cheek.
	"I hope you find the love and happiness that I can't give you."
	Serenity looked up at him, her blue eyes meeting his in confusion, unable to say anything. She wanted to throw her arms around him, yet they would not obey her simple command. Her mind screamed at her to leave it be, to walk away, before it was too late, to walk away safely, where she would not be able to be hurt again, even though this moment hurt as much as any other moment of loss in her life. But, if she allowed her heart a stake in this, the pain of losing him would be unbearable . . . she would not allow it to get that far, allow herself to be hurt like that again. Serenity closed her eyes, stepping away from Endymion sadly. If felt wrong, it hurt so badly, to take that step, but had she moved in the other direction the pain of losing him would be so much worse. 
	"I'm sorry Endy." she said softly, her head bowed down. Endymion shook his head.
	"I, I guess I should be the one apologizing." Endymion said. "I can't make you feel something you obviously don't." Serenity lifted her head, to look him squarely in the eyes.
	"I still, I still-"
	"I know. I knew. I just," Endymion looked wistfully at the Earth his eyes sad. "I probably won't be coming back you know?" he said. Serenity gasped.
	"Wha-"
	"We're losing down there. I might . . . might . . . this will most likely be the last time I'll be here, the last time I'll see you, and I just wanted . . . I guess, I wanted you to be there with me. For my last couple of days." Serenity's hand grasped Endymion's arm tightly, the icy fear clutching her heart.
	"Endy?"
	"I guess it's better this way anyway." Endymion said. 'At least she doesn't care, so it won't hurt so much if I don't come back.' he thought grimly. 
	"No." Serenity said, her voice strained. "No, it's not better this way! It's not better at all! What do you mean 'not coming back!' What is that all about?!?!" she cried angrily, her voice becoming louder and more high pitched with ever pain filled word. "Of course you're coming back! You can't! You just-"
	Mid sentence Serenity suddenly stopped, her eyes locked on the dark shadow behind Endymion. She imagined she saw two glowing eyes staring right at her, making her blood run cold in her veins.
	"Serenity!" Endymion asked, his voice filled with concern as her face suddenly paled. 
	"Behind you." She whispered, still trapped by the glowing eyes. Endymion whipped his head around to see what had terrified Serenity, his hand instinctively reaching for the hilt of his sword. But that momentary delay was all the time needed for a powerful, furry hand to whip out, bashing into Endymion's face, and send the Prince reeling backwards. Another strike of the claw knocked the sword across the balcony, the clang of the metal on the stone floor mingling with Serenity's scream.
	The cries of the princess drew the creature's attention, and it turned to face her, the wolfish beast's eyes again meeting her own blue ones shimmering in terror. She took an uncertain step back, unable to break her gaze from the creature, evil swirling in its glowing pupils. It seemed to smile at her, a toothy grin that displayed sharpened daggers for teeth.
	"Get away." The only words she could muster sounded hollow and weak; the pounding of her own heart in her ears seemed louder than her own voice. The creature cocked its head sideways, as though amused, then, took a step forward, powerfully launching itself at her. Serenity screamed, trying to step away, feeling as though she were the clumsiest girl alive and unable to move fast enough, for it's claws were so close to her face now and there was no escaping it and . . . 
	Endymion, giving a ferocious battle cry, launched himself at the creature, knocking it away from Serenity. It would not, he vowed, harm her in any way, not while he still lived! Endymion reached out for his sword, his fingers grasping air! It was too far away. Endymion's attention immediately returned to his opponent, barely thrusting his hands out in front of him fast enough to stop the claws that had been zooming towards his face. The creature now had him pinned to the ground, its jaw snapping, its claws slashing, Endymion's vice like grip the only thing stopping the powerfully strong beast from ripping the prince to shreds. And Endymion could feel his muscles straining, growing weaker, the claws inching slowly closer and closer. 
	Serenity again screamed in fear for Endymion, turning towards the doors to get help. She had to hurry, had to be fast, to make sure she didn't lose him. She would not be able to stand it if she lost him! WHERE WERE HER SCOUTS!
	The doors were shut! And the windows had been covered in thick dark blue curtains for decorations. The doors had never been intended to be closed! Serenity pushed hard on the handle, nervously glancing back at Endymion, who was still struggling, his brow covered in sweat. The handle did not budge! She shook it harder, shaking it desperately, but to no avail! THE DOORS WOULD NOT OPEN! Endymion cried out, kicking at the beast, although it did not help his situation, and Serenity began to beat furiously at the doors, her voice frantic.
	"HELP!! SOMEONE! PLEASE! OPEN THE DOORS! HELP US PLEASE!!!!"
	No one came. The tears soon followed, streaming down her face as she pounded and kicked at the door, which would somehow not budge.
	"PLEASE! SOMEONE! OPEN THE DOOR! PLEASE!" she cried, slowly sinking to the ground. "Please."
	"SERENITY!" 
	Serenity shot back up to her feet at the sound of her name.
	"REI! REI! OPEN THE DOORS! Something attacked us and . . . HELP PLEASE REI! PLEASE HELP US!"
	"I'm gonna blast it!" Rei called from behind the doors. Serenity stepped back, away from the doors, waiting for the fire to cut through it and the scouts to stop the creature. An explosion and screams came from the other side of the door, but the doors remained standing and closed.
	"REI! OPEN THE DOORS!" 
	"I can't! My powers aren't working!" Rei cried, her voice strained with worry and fear. Serenity began to shake her head.
	"Rei, please, you gotta help us . . . "ENDYMION!" Serenity suddenly shrieked, seeing the creature slash downwards, ripping the prince's tuxedo and barely missing his skin. She could see his arms shaking with the effort of fighting the creature, which was obviously more powerful than he was. He wouldn't be able to hold out for much longer against it, and then . . . 
	Dazedly, Serenity grabbed Endymion's sword, getting strength from reserves she didn't know she had. She would stop it; it would not kill him. Endymion cried out again as he fought against it, this time, his voice reaching her ears clearer than ever before, breaking something inside of her. 
	"NO!" she screamed, racing towards it with deadly purpose, her sword raised high as the warm tears coursed down her cheeks. She chopped down hard on its neck, again and again, each blow harder than the last, the creature unable to protect itself from her attack, so unexpected it was, the first blow a deadly one. And even after the creature had stopped struggling, had slumped to the ground, she continued to strike it, crying hard now, unseeing, her hands blistering from holding the hilt so tightly, screaming softly at it, her voice hoarse. 
	Endymion gently put his hand over hers, holding her hand still. Her eyes didn't' register him immediately, and she prepared to strike him, and then, stopped, realizing who he was. She looked at the creature, dead, at her feet, and she let her hands open, the sword clattering to the ground.
	"Serenity?" he asked, looking into her confused eyes that seemed covered by a dark mist. She blinked, her body shaking visibly, then with a shudder and a sob, threw herself against him, into his arms, crying painfully hard. And he enfolded her in his soothing embrace, trying to abate the pain, closing his eyes as the sound of her voice sent him into a similar despair as her own. He could not stand to hear her suffer. 
	"Serenity." He said again, this time soothing, his voice soft velvet and warm milk. He looked past her, to the doors that had just been opened, a very frantic Queen and four furious scouts bursting through, followed by terrified guests. Serenity shot him a questioning glance, taking only a moment to look at the monster dead, the bloodied sword at her distraught daughter's feet. She nodded in approval at Endymion, allowing him to comfort Serenity instead of herself, then quietly began to calm the scouts down and, in a composed and regal manner, proceeded to give orders to clear away the carcass of the creature, as well as security issues. 
	Sailor Mars remained outside to stand guard over Serenity and Endymion while the rest moved inside, the night's festivities cut short. Mar's eyes softened as she looked at her friend, whose pain was so obvious. She stepped back into the shadows, an unobtrusive bodyguard that went unnoticed, keeping a silent watch on her most important friends.
	"Serenity." Endymion said again, his voice both soft with concern, yet hard with purpose. "Serenity, it's over. You don't need to cry anymore. You killed it. It won't hurt you anymore."
	Serenity sobbed harder, unable to form words. 
	"Serenity, you don't need to be afraid of it anymore. You don't need to cry. It's all right. Everything is all right." He said again. He could feel Serenity's head shake back and forth, affirming the negative of his words.
	"No . . . no it isn't." she whispered. "It isn't all right at all."
	"Serenity?" Endymion asked. "It's dead. You killed it. Everything will be fine. See?" 
	"No. NO!" she said again, pausing a moment as another sob rose. She held it in, her body shaking, then took a breath to steady herself.
	"It isn't all right Endy. It can never be all right again." she said grimly, her voice dull. She stood to get up, her eyes still red and puffy, her face tear stained. "Not all right at all."
	Endymion grabbed her wrist, stopping her from her flight. She would not meet his eyes, keeping her head lowered.
	"What are you talking about Serenity?"
	"Because I, I . . ." she looked up at him, her eyes cavernous and confused. "Because you, because you're going. Because you're . . . because you're leaving! AND NOT COMING BACK!"
	" . . . " Endymion found that he could not speak, the power behind her words rendering him dumb.
	"You're leaving and not coming back and I can't, can't . . . I can't lose you! I can't lose anyone else I love. I can't handle . . . I JUST CAN'T!!!"
	"Serenity, I. . . I don't know that for sure." Endymion said quietly. She shook her head emphatically.
	"I'm not stupid! I know! I've known that in war . . . I've tried to not feel. . . to stop it, to fight it, but I can't and to lose you now Endy, to lose you now . . . I can't and I won't but . . . but I can't help it, that feeling, even if it terrifies me. I can't stop it, because I, I . . . I love you and you're leaving me too, and you're going to die too, and I can't lose you Endy." She said, her voice so quiet, yet so intense. The tears began to flow again, quietly this time, leaving her voice clear for an astonished Endymion to listen to. 
	"And when that thing . . . I thought it would kill you, and the pain of that, it hurt so bad, you know? And I felt so detached from it all, from that moment, from that world, like I was someplace else it hurt so much. And I, I knew, I know, that I wouldn't be able to take losing you too. Because I guess, I, I . . .  I love you and I'm so scared! So, so scared, and I don't know what to do, and you're going to, to . . . and I'll be alone again and, and . . . " 
	As the tears came free of the walls Serenity had tried to build to hold them, Endymion again pulled her into a tight embrace.
	"Shh, Sere. No more tears. I'll come back." 
	Serenity looked up at him, her blue eyes wide and bright from the tears, trembling from a small ray of hope. 
	"If I have a reason to come back, I promise that I'll survive and return to you. That is, if I have a reason for another visit out here." Endymion said, looking at her closely. "Do I have any reason to come back?"
	Serenity nodded her head, her eyes locked on his. "Yes, you've got a reason to come back Endy. Even if it isn't a very good one." Endymion smiled wanly.
	"I think I've got the best reason in the world, and I will come back." Endymion said. "Trust me, I'll be back, for you."
	"I do." Serenity replied. "I, I know you'll be back. I trust you with all my heart."
	Rei smiled. She turned away from her friends to give them some privacy. Finally, those two were not trapped in some melodramatic soap opera, but a fairy tale with a happy ending, where the princess finally gets her prince. Rei turned back to check on her friends, rolling her eyes. JEEZ!!!! For how long were those two gonna kiss!?!?! She giggled. O well. It was, after all, just so romantic and . . . WERE THEY STILL KISSING!!!!! Rei leaned back against the wall. It was going to be a long night for her, but for Serenity and Endymion, time didn't' seem to even exist.