Tsuki no Namida XIV

Winter

...

Fire and ice spun through Serenity's weighed body. The bite of cold on her face, her feet dangled numbly over a horse's flanks as she was rocked gently back and forth. She was warm and secure, her hands tucked securely within a thick blanket of furs and soft leather that cocooned her. She loathed having to wake, drugged and contented by her blissful sleep. Sleep washed the world away and she did not worry where she was or where she was going. Whether she was cold or warm, there was a sense of comfort thicker than the blankets. A giant's warm chest breathed beneath her head and she smiled, not even knowing why. Not a voice or sound disturbed her rest. Whispers of horses, movement, and the winter wind lulled her deeper into her slumber. And so she travelled unknowingly, without mind or care, towards the Earth's great capital.

Disappointed soldiers slumped on their mounts; their trodding expressed no eagerness to return. But return they must, with failure grating at their nerves. Their lord and captain sat straight and tall among them, a beacon of strength. The set of his shoulders and the ease of his expression bespoke of no shame, and the weary, freezing men took heart by it. Still, they thought, a victory would have been nice. One youth trudged behind, anxious and worried as he glanced at his mammoth friend who knew not what silent burden he carried. There was a new fearful expectation in Andrew’s eyes as he regarded his comrades, waiting for a hint of revelation... or a faint light of suspicion to enter their dumb eyes. But even their cool leader seemed to remain ignorant, resigned to return home empty-handed without any glory for his family name.

At his own sudden sense of wariness among men he either admired or had known since a young lad, it was a wonder to him that a Lunarian girl could ever overcome such fear and distrust. Memories of her filled his mind, a lost girl in the wood, panicked by the soldiers--Terran soldiers--that found her. Not simply afraid, being a young woman forced into the camp filled with soldiers, but afraid for her very life. She had been worse than a cornered rabbit or trapped deer she. But still she had begun to listen, to speak, and to reason... even smile or play. Conversations with her replayed like an ocean's gentle insistence, pleading for understanding even as she kept her identity hidden. She was a contradiction of strength and frailty, sadness and joy.

Not a soul spoke of the Lunarians that escaped them, of the miraculous sight at the river. Silence fell with the cold breadth of snow. Whether the sense of blame lay in their defeat or the winter chill, Andrew did not know or care, too lost in his own thoughts of loyalty and justice, of everything he knew or thought he had known.

...

Whispers trailed around Diamond as he strode with purpose through the corridors, mindless of the noble sight he made. He nodded only to those who greeted him, paused only for those with a question or concern. The rest would have to be content in their curiosity, but he had a suspicion and a duty to discover the truth. Thus he had questioned the new arrivals himself, the origin of the spreading rumors. The man had spoken, serious and confident, as he retold his tale to the thoughtful Diamond, not withholding any details. He admitted to being drugged, but with sense and wit enough to wonder at the odd happenings around him; the mist that had returned when his power was naught, a small fire's unnatural fury, and the sudden thunder that froze the soldiers in their places as they beat him. The man had said that a girl was among them. Golden haired, she was more than a child but less than a woman. He had been too feverish and upset to wonder at her awkward place in their midst, and first ignored her insistence to care for him. He paid more attention after the mist had returned.

"I began to wonder," he said, "as impossible as it was... even if she was a Terran--"

"Not quite so impossible," Diamond had interrupted dryly, but did not elaborate.

The man continued, sharing his surprise when she had freed him and left with him, rather than stay with the soldiers. She cupped a golden light in her palm to guide their way. It hadn't felt right to question her, amazed as he was. When they joined with his family hiding in the caves, she revealed that the Silver Path was true and even spoke of Diamond himself. The man's eyes glimmered at Diamond as sat before him. Then he concluded with the most marvelous revelation of all. How the girl had been Lunarian all along, revealing herself for a brief moment to a young soldier who came upon them. "Friends they seemed," the man frowned. "After seeing her, he let us go... but we were trapped there by the cliffs. I knew what she planned, but didn't think it possible." He shook his head, his vision seeming to glaze with the memory. "None of us could help her. She froze the surface of the Kaleia River, bridging land to land. We crossed, but she... she was weakened, and fell behind without our realizing. Soldiers swarmed the shore, stepping onto the ice. She broke the bridge herself, even as it collapsed beneath her."

Diamond stared at the man, fearing the worst. The rumors had not said that the girl had died. "You didn't see what became of her?" he forced himself to ask.

The man sighed, "I lingered, helpless as I was, sure that she would drown. But the Terrans fished her out and seemed to mean her no harm. That's when I left. I know no more."

Diamond took his queue to leave, speaking briefly to Kunzite of what he knew before seeking out Zoicite, who could always be counted on to know a little more of the mystery. Excitement grew in him. There was a feeling that it all meant something, two Terrans with elemental magic and now this new turn of events. If such a Lunarian existed, it had to mean something. He himself was among the strongest of Lunarians, his power surprising many, and even he would hesitate to freeze the largest known river. That alone would pique his interest, but a Lunarian who wasn't tied down by one element?

He barreled through the great doors to the scholar's work chambers, the occupants’ brows arching in surprise at his loud entrance. Diamond greeted the petite Terran woman who nodded back serenely.

At a questioning, pointed glance to his scholar and friend, Zoicite merely shrugged, "I assume you barged into my asylum for a reason?"

"Have you heard the rumors?" Diamond asked.

Zoicite looked at him, amused. "Do I ever listen to gossip?"

Diamond shook his head. "Some are worth listening to. Have you ever heard of a Lunarian controlling all the elements?" Zoicite's eyes widened and he sobered as Diamond paraphrased the Lunarian’s story. Zoicite was quiet afterwards--too quiet. He looked distantly past Diamond, not seeming to believe what he heard and frozen in his own thoughts.

"It is like the Terran's magic, then?" Diamond pressed hesitantly. "You've never heard of such a case before?"

"No, there have been many," Zoicite said calmly, surprising Diamond. Zoicite met his eyes before he could speak. "All the Lunarian Queens had such power as you describe." The scholar's words hung meaningfully in the air long after he said them.

...

All journeys must come to an end, and Serenity was finally pulled back into the waking world. She was too weak to worry--Andrew seemed worried enough for the both of them. Her small body ached from cold and uncomfortable positions and her head still spun at odd moments. She rested her face against the mane of Sparrow's monstrous, gentle horse. Her cheeks and nose were bruised red from the winter's wind and her small fingers curled into the thick mane for warmth. The horse muttered contently beneath her, giant hooves sloshing without complaint through the floor of snow. She loved the horse. The beast reminded her of its rider.

Men grumbled at the snow, but though she shivered, Serenity delighted in watching it drift peacefully down to Earth. The woods almost sighed in contentment, lulled by the white flutters that drowned the air and came to rest in drifts or blanket its trees. It was time for its slumber. Snow was one of Serenity's favorite things to play with and she itched to do so. She didn't like seeing Andrew so serious and uneasy. With a secret smile, she watched him and twirled an unseen finger. Snow spiraled around Andrew in a pretty current, and he jumped, staring wide eyed as the snow to his side formed the visage of a flower in sparkling movement. He marveled at the sight for a moment, under its spell of beauty before he jerked and looked in panic to see if any had been watching. All backs were turned and he sighed in relief, frowning a warning at Serenity. She smiled sleepily at him, knowing he had been pleased by it. She let the snow disperse, and in a fanciful burst, it fell into its normal patterns. Andrew shook his head, but she thought he hid a smile. A secret was always more fun when it could be shared.

A shout from above grabbed their attention and Serenity straightened as the men urged on their horses to a quicker trot. They had found their way onto a well-trodden path. The trees grew sparse as the snow thinned. The horses clunked as they walked onto a cobblestone road and Serenity held her breath. Too distraught during her last visit to the Earth's grand capital, this might as well have been her first time seeing it. The Kaleia River swirled into view while the city bloomed around it and great bridges swung over the impressive city. Buildings, tall and little, old and new, crowded its banks and trickled into markets and farms as they spread ever outward. The castle itself rose beyond, nearly too beautiful and far away to be real. A great lake shone beyond.

"A grand old sight, isn't it?" Sparrow boomed, appreciating the view along with his companion. "Have you been to Adytheis, little Serenity?" he laughed. "Of course you have, what am I saying? You said your uncle lived here."

Serenity nodded, still drinking in the sight. It seemed calmer in winter, but within its outer gates, the city bustled. The outer wall had lost its purpose during the years of peace and growth. Homes and Inns clustered around its parameters as if the city had grown too big. People gathered around in streets and shops, carriages, carts, and horses adding to the organized chaos. The men looked ready to gallop with into the city, their eyes bright. They held back and waited for their captain to turn and address them.

Neklair looked them over for a moment as they held their breaths. Then he nodded. "It has been a long journey. You are home! Go and enjoy it." The men gave shouts of joy and took no further encouragement. Serenity wondered at their sudden impatience. How many of them were eager to reunite with families, had a young wife or children waiting for them? And how many of them simply wanted good food, entertainment, and a warm bed? She realized then that Sparrow and Andrew had not moved to follow and Neklair was staring at her. "You will come with me. I need to report first to the Lunarian Precinct but then I can see you safely to your uncle."

Serenity tensed but was given no time to worry. Andrew frowned at his captain. "Permission to accompany you, sir?" His jaw jutted out stubbornly as if he was prepared to argue. Serenity was proud of him. He never would have dared to argue with the captain before.

Sparrow simply chuckled, oblivious of any tension. "Sounds like an idea! I've nothing better to do and would like to see the little one to her destination and say our farewells."

Neklair nodded at them, serious but for a trace of a smile. "Very well." A blind man could see the affection the giant and youth fostered for the girl and this came as no surprise to him.

Serenity sunk warily into the saddle and Sparrow's comforting girth as they took the side road less travelled. It led off from the city, down to a long structure of dark stone at the edge of the forest. The fortress wasn't pretty, homey, or grand like the buildings of the city. It looked cruel, like an unyielding black rock untouched by the pristine snow. The abyss, the Lunarians nicknamed it. A place of darkness, sorrow, and slavery. Knowing Andrew and Sparrow would be with her, she wasn't really afraid, but that didn't change the fact that it was the last place she ever wanted to see again.

They reached it far too soon, her heart beating dreadfully in her chest as they passed through the gates and then dismounted before the ugly steps. Sparrow set her lightly on her feet but, weak as she was, she nearly collapsed. The soldier swept her back into his arms as if she were a mere doll, climbing up the steps and not letting her down until they passed through the doors and he was sure she was steady on her feet. She almost wished he would pick her back up, feeling safer in the giant's arms. She sought Andrew's eyes, eased when she saw he was as tense and nervous as she. Disguised or not, it seemed to be asking for trouble to enter the heart of Lunarian slavery among the Terrans. Though even if it was unreasonable, knowing that at least one other knew and understood her apprehension made her feel infinitely better.

She waited for the familiarity to hit her but it never did, carefully looking around the spacious room they had entered. Candles cast a dim light, but there were more than she would have thought. It lacked decoration, but the room was well kept and stately in its own way, even shadows lending their own beauty. Couches and chairs sat invitingly to the side. For who? It was then she realized that they used the front entrance, a place no Lunarian slave was ever allowed. Buyers like Lawrence, she mused darkly, probably waited here before being shown in. Sets of stairs twisted up and downward. Above, the Terran sleeping quarters... soldiers, watchers, officials, or cooks. Below would be the nightmare; dark cave-like halls, broken moldy stone, and rusting bars. There Silver-haired men, women, and children lived hopelessly in the dark, many remembering nothing but the cage around them. There you had no name. Names didn't matter.

Andrew's hand fell on Serenity's shoulder and, startled, she looked to him. Tears stung her eyes. She hadn't realized her breathing had grown harsh. Andrew stared back, horrified by his own suspicions, but with sense enough to warn her to calm herself. It wouldn't be wise to have hysterics on the threshold of the Lunarian Precinct. She gave a thankful, barely perceptible nod. It wouldn't do, just then, to be lost in the terrors and memories below. She took a steadying breath, blinking away her fresh tears.

One cavernous hall broke straight off the room they stood in and footsteps echoed, light and clipped. The smallest noise squeaked within Serenity's throat and Andrew looked at her sharply. A woman Serenity knew very well stepped forward to greet them, a messenger by her heels slipping back into the dark. A smile curved her red lips. "So my brother came without a silver-haired gift for his little sister?" She arched a fine brow at Neklair--their silky black hair, fine features, and cool countenances mirrored each other perfectly.

And then General Raye Hark, glancing dismissively at the others, came to an abrupt stop and looked again. Serenity couldn't breathe, caught by unreadable, violet eyes. A smile sprung to the general's lips and Serenity knew she had been recognized. Andrew tensed beside her, but what could poor Andrew do? Serenity hadn’t considered that she would meet the general herself--no other, she believed, would have recognized her. It wouldn't even occur to them. But Raye herself had let her and Diamond escape into the woods. After the fire chased off the others, she had remained and watched them go. Serenity clung to that mysterious hope even as she waited for the worst she was sure would come. No one ever understood the general's intentions. Serenity had conveniently walked into the Lunarian Precinct. She wasn't so very sure that she would be walking out.

"Serenity! How good it is to see you again," Raye laughed at her, the sound melodious and throaty. Serenity tried not to crumble right there and then as Neklair turned to frown at her, his eyes dark with confusion. She waited as bravely as she could.

"We found her, a stray lost in the wood, claiming to be heading here. Says her uncle is a soldier and we were about to find him next. You know this girl, Raye?" Curiosity swam openly on his face, expecting the girl's mystery finally to be solved. Patience was usually rewarded.

"Why yes, I know her very well," Raye assured him. Her violet eyes dripped with amusement as she eyed her brother and her mouth tightened as if fighting not to laugh. "She is Serenity Delacrae, adopted daughter of Artemis Delacrae and his wife. They live quite a distance from the capital in one of the branched cities but yes... I believe his wife does have a brother who is a retired soldier."

Serenity was dumb-founded. How could Raye know so much about her? Only Endymion had known her origin and had the decency not to betray her high-standing family. Worry, confusion, and wonder spun through her like a sudden storm.

Neklair nodded in acknowledgment. "I know of Artemis. That doesn't explain, though, how she came to travel here afoot and alone. I would like to question this uncle of hers."

Serenity shrunk on the spot. Raye chuckled and waved an uncaring hand. "What does it matter? Probably something silly like an arranged marriage or a child's argument." She gave her brother a level look. "You are not fit to handle a young girl's problems, Neklair. Meet with me and then go your own way. The poor thing is a mess and dead on her feet. I will care for her and make certain she finds her way to her uncle, or her home. You can't blame her for not wanting to confide in a man."

Neklair looked thoughtful a moment, as if slightly disappointed. He turned to Serenity. "Would that be your preference?"

Serenity nodded. Andrew shifted uneasily beside her, looking worried.

"It's settled then. Duty comes first, however. You better fill me in on the details." Raye turned on her heel and led Neklair down the corridor.

Sparrow stretched and yawned behind Serenity, lumbering over to one of the couches to settle down. Within moments, a soft snoring met her ears. "Are you sure this is all right?" Andrew whispered beside her.

"I think so," she said after a long pause. Was it too good to be true?

Andrew cast a bewildered look to the corridor and let out a whistle. "The general herself," he mused. "I still don't believe it."

They remained silent as they waited, afraid to move or speak. Andrew kicked Sparrow awake just as their superiors emerged. Sparrow's beady eyes squinted with tears and, true to his nature, he gave Serenity an enormous bear hug. Andrew stepped forward, looking awkward for a moment before mustering one of his old grins. "Take care of yourself. You seem to find trouble--"

Serenity hugged him, cutting him off. "Thank you, Andrew." Only he knew the extent of her gratitude. He patted her back and ruffled her hair.

Raye nodded her approval as Serenity joined her. Then, she regarded the unhappy Andrew thoughtfully and smirked, "If you wish to see me some time, young soldier, we may have something to talk about."

Andrew blinked at the woman in surprise. Collecting himself, he straightened and bowed. "If that would please you."

Serenity tried hard to contain the feeling of loss as both Sparrow and Andrew walked out, looking as if they might disappear in the swirl of white. It had begun to snow again. The doors closed, loud and echoing. Left alone with the general, Serenity grew evermore nervous. The dark-haired woman didn't seem to suffer the same affliction and briskly guided Serenity up the stairs to a higher level. It was a different realm than the Lunarian Precinct she knew. She found it easier to forget the darkness below.

Serenity's eyes danced as she peered nervously around the halls and closed doors, yet always looking back to the woman beside her.

"You don't need my permission to speak," Raye said as their eyes finally met.

"I did once," Serenity mumbled, looking down, for there were too many conflicting emotions to deal with.

Raye paused and lifted the small girl's chin with a finger, her eyes smoldering like purple fire. "I know your secret... but you know mine. As I am now, you have no reason to fear."

Serenity hesitated. "The fire?"

Raye furrowed her brow. "Yes," she admitted, then lifted a golden strand of Serenity's hair thoughtfully. "Perhaps we aren't so different."

The general lowered her eyes, turned and continued onward. Serenity hurried after her. It was impossible to choose one of so many questions. "I didn't know that the Lord Neklair was your brother," she said, realizing how disturbingly similar to her sibling Raye really was.

"I have many brothers," Raye said simply. "It would have been most amusing if he knew he had taken a Lunarian girl under his wing. Father would turn in his grave."

Serenity didn't think she would find it very amusing at all and said as much. Raye laughed, looking at her from the corner of her eye. "You've changed."

"I don't think I have. You've only known me as a slave." Serenity frowned, wondering at herself.

"Really? And what would you have done had I revealed your identity down there?"

"I would have fought with all I had." That was natural enough. She had put up a decent struggle the first time. But being a slave, torn and empty within for so long, had warped her. Serenity shivered, remembering like a nightmare that would always haunt her. That broken and hopeless young girl--was that truly her? Bone-limbed in rags, forever cold, no fire within. The lingering image of herself as a slave, much like a wraith remained in her heart.

"And if you were caught once again?" Raye pressed. "Would you have gone weeping and begging into the Abyss, becoming a shell of yourself like all the others?"

"I am a shell of myself," Serenity demurred, ignoring the question even as she knew she would have refused to cry--at least where others could see. Not that she wanted to test such a conviction. She was horrified at the thought of becoming a wraith again, only a semblance of her previous existence. And the memories were always there, too easy to slip into... like losing oneself in death. That was the fear that lurked within her softened eyes.

Raye shook her head and told her in a brisk voice, "You're comparing yourself to a dream of who you were. Has it ever occurred to you that people change? Suffering defines a person far better than peace or happiness ever could."

Serenity looked at the woman, something akin to hope tugging at her expression. Sometimes, she thought her freedom was only a cloak to cover and hide the slave. As if her body had been freed, but her spirit remained prisoner, locked away somewhere out of reach. Anxious and insecure, wanting only to lick at her wounds, she had been told she was not who she thought she was. Royal Lunarian blood ran through her, blessing and cursing her. The mother she could no longer remember wasn't simply any Lunarian killed that terrible night, but the Queen herself. Serenity was heir to a broken throne. What did it matter if they found a Queen? Her people had suffered too much to deserve a weak ruler who could do nothing for them.

Raye's words were like flames that could thaw frozen fingers if she but reached out to them. She was ashamed by her sorrow and grief, like a blemish or flaw of which she could not rid herself. It was a small revelation to her that what made her weak could make her strong. It seemed like a contradiction, and part of her still denied it--perhaps it worked that way only for others. But she wanted to believe it. She wanted to change. That was the real reason, she thought, that she had run away. She had felt trapped in herself. And had she changed as Raye said--even a little, even at all? She felt odd, different, after she had helped the Lunarian man and his family. It hadn't mattered at that moment who or what she was; only that she had helped someone. She had done something good. Perhaps she could make a difference in her own way.

"Raye," Serenity said quietly. "What would you do if something was expected of you that you knew you were not capable of?"

"I would make myself capable of it," the woman said without hesitation.

Raye's expression softened at Serenity, a strange look on the general’s face, both serene and ruthless in its beauty. She was glad for the excuse of what she had become, not at all certain she would have revealed the girl even before. At the very least, she might have pretended not to know her. Once, that would have unnerved her sense of duty, but now it seemed a silly thing to let bother her after becoming an informant. She was oddly proud and still somewhat amused that the slip of a girl had managed to fool her brother and even gain the loving protection of at least two Terran soldiers.

Raye had learned much of the girl through Endymion. Indeed he had faithfully kept the girl's identity unknown in the beginning, but Raye's curiosity had gotten the best of her when he tried enlisting her help to find the Lunarian. He was coerced to admit how he had met the girl, how she could turn her silver hair a shade of gold, and of the family that had raised and concealed her. Raye had promised the prince she would not act on the information given, but like a cat, had grown more curious. She had showed him the prisons below--it was obvious the prince had never been below the surface into the abyss, so he could see for himself that his Serenity was not there. The handsome young man had marched through as if he were walking the paths of hell, pale and horrified. Half starved and dirty Lunarians moaned and howled and cried out to him. The children stared with wide, bright eyes that he couldn't seem to meet. Raye had suppressed her delight, thinking with satisfaction that it served him right. It was obvious to her, though he never said so, that he had loved the Lunarian girl that he had allowed to be detained there. She never bothered to search for Serenity, knowing that the girl had escaped with the renegade Lunarian, Diamond. Yet, this very day, Serenity had been escorted right to her doorstep. Raye was still curious, very curious, at what would happen if the prince and the Lunarian girl should ever meet again. The thought deserved careful consideration.

Without comment, Raye ushered the girl into a handsome room connected by two others. She ordered a warm bath and food to be brought. There was an odd sense of companionship that was new to Raye as she let the girl bathe and helped her don a shift to sleep in. She had never cared for the conniving women or flighty girls at court and the closest she could call friends were her brothers. The blonde pixie of man with laughing eyes rose in her mind, but she brushed the image aside with annoyance. It was just a strange feeling to look after the girl who remained in a daze and obeyed Raye's soft commands with tired, fragile movements. Raye hadn't exaggerated in the slightest, saying that Serenity looked dead on her feet. The poor thing was exhausted. There would be plenty of time for questions later. Raye tucked the girl into bed in the small, side guest room. She gave Raye a shy, sleepy smile before burrowing beneath the covers, eyes fluttering closed. Raye paused a moment in the doorway, wondering how this would change things for her. Smiling slightly, she waved her hand. The little candle by the bed obediently extinguished.

...

Serenity woke late in the morning, gripped by the strangeness of the unfamiliar room. It took only a moment for it to dawn on her where she was. It was even stranger to consider she was in the Lunarian Precinct, a guest in General Raye's quarters. It wasn't so very frightening. Her stomach knotted as she thought of the realm below her, but she forced herself to forget. Nothing around her reminded her of the stale air, dank prison walls, or twisting labyrinth of tunnels. If she didn't know better, she could be in any normal building. She dressed and stepped nervously into the common room. Raye was not there. Wide-eyed, her attention was then pulled to a window she had not noticed the day before. To her knowledge, the lower floors hadn't a single window to the outside world. She peered out, excited by the sight. It was easy to see over the compound’s wall at such a height. Hills of white spread out before her and the city sprouted and tumbled around the river, lazy and silver in the cold. Turrets and arches of the castle rose above the city, proud and distant. Serenity watched through a curtain of light snow, mesmerized for far longer than she realized.

That was how Raye found her, after quietly entering the room. Having risen early, Raye had finished her morning routine and came to check on her guest. She joined the girl at the window.

Serenity blinked at her. "What happens now?"

"What would you like to happen now?"

"I don't know." She turned, ashamed, to look back out the window. "I ran away from them. The Lunarians, Artemis and Luna."

"And where were you going?"

"Anywhere." Serenity flushed, knowing she hadn't thought anything through. "I have a little money, or jewels that I can sell." Not that they would have lasted her for long, but she thought it gave her some credit to her foolishness.

Raye was more practical. "And this uncle you claimed you have to my brother? Is he real?"

Serenity paused, and then realized she had no reason to hide anything. A soldier who saved a Lunarian would be a traitor--but what did that matter when Raye herself was guilty of the same? Serenity nodded. "His name is Grey, sister to Luna Delacrae. He's the one who brought me to them." He had done more than save her life; he had given her a family.

"Do you still wish for me to bring you to him?" Raye asked her.

Serenity thought about it. "I think he'll tell Luna where I am, but I don't see that I have a choice."

Raye surprised Serenity, her expression thoughtful as she spoke. "I don't expect you to enjoy your stay here. However--you are welcome to stay with me for the time being."

Serenity stepped back, bewildered. Stay willingly at the Lunarian Precinct--as a guest? The thought didn't bother her nearly as much as she thought it should have. Hopeful but worried, she asked, "Wouldn't that cause trouble for you?"

"Perhaps," Raye agreed smoothly, but then slanted a gaze at Serenity. "Though there's a novelty in the idea I find hard to resist. You managed to fool my brother--who isn't an easy man to fool. You survived a Terran camp full of soldiers. I don't see why you couldn't survive the Lunarian Precinct."

"You don't think anyone else will recognize me? You--"

Raye shook her head. "With silver hair, grungy faces, and rags, the slaves all begin to look the same to them. They'll never look past your golden hair--" Raye paused. "How do you manage such a thing? Will it wear off?"

Shaking her head, Serenity pulled off her necklace, letting the general see her hair change to silver. Quickly she donned the necklace again. She fingered the charm. "I can't explain how it works. It was a gift from Artemis."

Raye nodded in approval. "Very well. Never take it off while you are here, even in your room." She stopped to brush Serenity's bangs aside. The woman sighed, disappointed. "I suppose it couldn't hide that as well. I'll come up with something. A simple tiara might do. Many noble ladies are favoring them these days."

And so started the first of many surreal days for Serenity. Raye, true to her word, procured a simple golden band that circled and fit well over her crescent mark. In the beginning, Serenity rarely ventured out of the general's quarters. She mooned about the window--one of only three, Raye told her. It captivated her for long periods of time, but she soon grew restless quickly shut up in one room. She read the few books she found on a lonely shelf, but mostly she waited. Waited for Raye to visit for a quick lunch and for her to return in the evening. Both had many questions for the other, and when their curiosity was filled, they still talked long into the night.

Serenity wanted to know Raye's opinion on everything, and though not always agreeing, usually found wisdom in her words. Serenity marveled that a young woman in her twenties, of noble birth, had chosen to become a soldier. Raye simply told her it wasn't so strange, being raised by a military father and older brothers. Eventually Raye admitted her decision had been influenced from losing her mother. She spoke of a Lunarian and a fire, no more. Despite the mysteriousness of Raye's past, Serenity let her leave it at that. They both had difficult periods in their life they did not wish to share. She was more amazed to find that the woman had found the Silver Path and enlisted Diamond's aid. She recounted to Raye of how the soldiers found her in the wood and took her in, the Lunarian that they captured and eventually freed. By the time, she reached victory, having faced disaster at the river, Raye was smiling as if she had something to say but did not comment.

Any fear Serenity may have still harbored concerning the general melted away like bits of snow near fire. Raye would find her bored and listless by the window, livening only when she realized that woman had returned. Near the end of one of their brief lunches, Serenity couldn't hide her gloom over being left alone again for the long afternoon. Sighing, Raye told her it was time for her to leave the upper floor. "You're not a princess locked in some tower," she chided.

At the choice of words, Serenity nearly choked on her food. Flushing deeply, she pretended not to see Raye's questioning look. The next morning a brisk knock on the door broke the solitude to which she had accustomed herself. Nervous, Serenity found a messenger requesting to escort her under the general's orders. Serenity fidgeted and delayed, but the old man had a great deal of persistence. He had orders to bring her downstairs and refused to go away. The room had become a safe haven to her. It hardly seemed attached to the rest of the place in Serenity's mind. She wasn't ready to be reminded where she was. The messenger didn't care a whit how she felt and eventually Serenity followed him.

They reached the entrance hall, and Serenity eyed the downward stairs like a black hole where a monster lay in wait. Her guide ignored the stairs, leading her instead down the open corridor. Dark walls loomed, but were not terrifying and Serenity felt sense of grim relief.

Raye waited for her in a comfortable office, laughing at Serenity's sullen expression. There were others in the room and Raye introduced her as the daughter of Artemis Delacrae who she agreed to look after, this having raised a few eyebrows. Female guests were a rare occurrence at the Lunarian Precinct. The men grunted or bowed in greeting. Serenity thought they were important men, but didn't care enough to remember their names or faces. Apparently, she had been invited to join them for a formal luncheon.

Raye whispered to her as they filed out of the room. "Be good and I might have a surprise for you after."

Serenity, mostly silent, sat uncomfortably through the meal. The dining room bothered her, rich and darkly furnished with a heavy gleaming table. The men gloated and preened, talking of politics and Lunarians and annoying her greatly. The atmosphere made her long for the soldiers’ campfire gatherings. They may have been a rough bunch, but there was festivity and amusement in their tales--beside that, Andrew and Sparrow had been with her. Amongst her peers, Raye was the epitome of the ice-cold general, possessing a commanding beauty. When she spoke, they listened. When she teased, they laughed. She talked as they did of the Lunarians holed below, like rats beneath their feet. Serenity's only comfort was their lack of interest in her.

When the ordeal was over, Raye ushered her back into the hall. "Don't sulk," she said. "The worst is over. You were just accepted by all the men here with any real authority. It was necessary."

"You could have warned me," Serenity grumbled, already knowing she would forgive the woman.

"And let you worry your pretty head over nothing? That isn't practical. I might warn you now that you have one more person to meet."

"Must I?" Serenity whimpered. She dreaded another pompous noble or soldier.

Her fear was in vain. When they entered the main hall, she stopped, floundering in elation as she recognized the blonde soldier. Andrew stood there, his posture oddly stiff, but this gave way to a familiar, wry grin.

Crying his name, Serenity sprung toward her friend. "How--why are you here?"

Andrew was silent as he took a moment to look her over, seeming relieved. Shrugging with a smile, he gestured to Raye who stood back, crossing her arms with a satisfied look. "The general called for me. Said her new ward needed an escort into the city."

"Is that true?" Serenity gasped, turning to Raye.

"This is too dreary a place for a young girl to spend all her time," Raye said dryly. "Besides, runaways don't carry nearly enough clothes. Andrew has strict instructions not to return you until you have a decent selection of dresses. I won't allow you to hide in my rooms any longer."

Serenity hesitated, caught between joy and exasperation until the former won out.

A horse for her had already been saddled and prepared. She loved the gentle, dapple-gray mare at first sight--even more so when Raye whispered its name, Moonlight. She loved the open skies and pearly fields that spread out beyond the wall. The world beckoned, freer and brighter then she remembered. Andrew laughed at her obvious delight. He didn't understand how dark and confined her days had become with only a window to comfort her. Even the snowy hills and distant city had begun to feel like only a painting, forever showing with the same view. As they rode, Serenity never looked back to the stony fortress.

...

Diamond waited impatiently, his spirit restless. He was not an impatient man, but desire--a longing, the need to know--made every moment in the small room torture. On the outskirts of the city, the humble inn belonged to a withering old man. He acted ignorant of the Lunarians who often swept through beneath his guests' sleeping feet but Diamond knew him better. A sharp old man was the inn keeper. For a forgotten and dusting room it was curiously well stocked. Warm blankets, a change of clothes, imperishable foods. Without a word from Diamond, he always found a bottle of his favorite wine waiting for him. Wine was a luxury he appreciated. Without waiting for his honored visitor, he made use of the beverage, letting it soothe his nerves. Excitement still lingered, a tingling in his blood and hope beating in his chest. No one ever considered, ever thought...

The Lunarians were a people of aging children, there were so many things they never learned before their mothers and fathers were killed. So much had died with them. Diamond himself had only been twelve. That night was remembered like a whirl of memories from a maddened creature, growing faint until it was only an impression. The soldiers weren't concerned by powerless, weeping children and ignorant of the hate that had burned in one twelve year old lad. Diamond had strong arms as a boy. Even his father had laughed and said he was as quick as a rabbit with a sword and had the gift to keep his head in a fight. Diamond was not calm that night. A wild fury bottled up inside him. They thought it curious why he was so quiet when they made him join the other children. They had laughed at him. Didn't he know his parents were dead? Before that terrible night was over, the cart creaked and rambled over a lonely road. The soldier driving huddled, grim and silent, but the others mocked the children. "They shiver like white animals!" they cried. "Pathetic! Your people are weak, nothing without your evil gifts," they scorned. "They didn't even fight us. They let themselves die." The subdued Diamond had lashed out in youthful rage and burning fury. They were too shocked to react. The children sat, stunned. The first wiry shoulder died, fallen with a broken neck. Diamond took his sword. It was then one or two of the older boys woke up from their astonishment and moved to help him. Kunzite, a boy older and bigger than him killed the second soldier by himself. The third screeched and shouted--the last to die.

Diamond had found himself, breathing heavily with a sword half his size in his hand. The other children moved up quietly and stood before him, their expressions expectant with varying visages of fear and grim determination. Within a moment, he had become a hero to them. Even the older boy looked at him in respect. Seeing their will to live had affected the young Diamond greatly. He told them to follow him if they wanted to, and they did, racing into the surrounding forests and hiding themselves like animals. Animals knew how to survive.

For years they had lived, a band of wild vagrants doing all they could to survive. Diamond and the boys thieved and spied in the city streets. Hiding their hair and faces, no one glanced at the beggars they seemed. Rags and dirty, boney limbs didn't bear noticing. They learned quickly, picking up tricks faster than any adult whose world had changed. Their eyes were bright. They learned to listen and listen well. In this way, they learned the fate of the other children, gleaned the thoughts and feelings of the Terran people and discovered why they did what they did. The children had been sheltered, living simple lives as farmers, blacksmiths, and wanderers. But there was strength and quickness in them--a willingness to learn and accept. Diamond discovered not all Terrans felt badly towards Lunarians. He watched them carefully, judging them, and soon Terran sympathizers had a secret--seeing a silver-haired youth in the night and helping him. Food and necessities began to trickle into their gang's needy fingers; knowledge was easier to gain when it was freely given. It didn't matter to Diamond who he befriended. A noble, an inn keeper, or the scoundrels in the streets. The scoundrels were great teachers. They knew the dark corners of the city, the shadows where no respectable Terran went. They knew how to fight and pay attention, how to slip unnoticed and unheard into a dwelling.

Diamond began to learn of, search, and find others who had escaped. All were invited to join him. It became a growing problem, however, how to hide them all. The majority of them fled into the forested hills, but many frequented the city streets in search of knowledge and food. Sometimes they slipped up--a soldier spotting them, or were betrayed by one of Diamond’s rare errors of judgment. Boys were taken and lost to their ranks. An attempt to retrieve those captured had ended in disaster. Diamond was sixteen when he had met Zoicite. By then his band of free children had grown to nearly fifty and would have been doomed if not for his connections spreading like a spider web throughout the kingdom. Even then, the pressure was great and doubts began to plague him.

Zoicite was the son of a great scholar, a man Diamond had chanced to meet and had been deeply sorry for it. The man had taken Diamond's presence with calm tolerance, but treated him coldly and told him his efforts were in vain. A stupid boy clinging to hope. There was no pity from such a man. He told Diamond his efforts were doomed. The Lunarians had ignored the Terrans and tried to stay out of their affairs, but their dream of peace had made them blind to their own destruction. The Lunarians were too weak, not willing to fight and so they had no chance to survive on Earth.

Diamond argued. "I will fight!" he said.

The scholar looked at him in disdain. "With an army of children?" he retorted. "You are stupid in your youth."

Diamond had never wanted to see the scholar again, but his knowledge and cunning of the world's way was legendary and Diamond was growing desperate. One day, a note passed to him in the night bore the man’s signature and his wish to meet. Diamond had swallowed his pride and gone, stunned to find the note had been penned by the son and not the father. Diamond regarded him, recognizing the same cold intelligence of the old scholar swimming sharply in Zoicite’s eyes. But where his father scoffed, Zoicite listened and said nothing of folly or stupidity.

Calmly the young scholar gave his advice and suggestions. "Teach the young boys to fight," he said. "They will be men one day. Don't run from every soldier... a friend amongst the enemy is the most valuable. Don't try and fight the Terrans, or blatantly try to free any Lunarian who is caught, even if he is your closest friend. Accept it and move on. The soldiers might become suspicious, but better for you to hide and not reveal that of which you are capable. If they suspect enough to hunt you, you will lose... Secretly draw more Terrans to your side--no, I mean on a greater level than you have been. Make them commit to where they can help you, to set up hidden shelters for the youngest children and those not eager to fight. You fear growth, but you must grow. Seek out your elders who might have survived, search across all the lands. Whether they wish to join you or not, their support and knowledge is worth whatever effort it takes."

Diamond had listened, stunned. "Why are you helping me," he asked, "When your father scorned me and my efforts?"

Zoicite, a scrawny boy for his age--no more than fifteen, had looked at him levelly. "My father is a hard man and has grown cynical. He observes a world that disgusts him but does nothing to change it. I'm not content to follow his example. I want to learn far greater things than he ever did. I think he underestimated you, just as the soldiers will--and that is to your advantage. Do with my advice what you will. It is no real matter to me whether you fail or succeed, but I will be sorely disappointed if you fail. Don't prove my father right."

Diamond faithfully listened to all that Zoicite had said, and having carried out his suggested strategy, a change soon rewarded his efforts. In a time when he was wearing thin, he grew strong again. He found a great friend and ally in the Terran youth, and would come back for advice on many more occasions. One of Zoicite's suggestions, the search for elders, had an unexpected reward. Indeed as Zoicite had said, Diamond had searched for those surviving elders. Most of them lived in farther lands and though they expressed their sympathies, they were content in their places of refuge. One, however, sought Diamond out--a man he didn't know, married and disguised as a Terran in the greater kingdom itself. Artemis praised Diamond's efforts like a father, and shared his vast knowledge. He learned things about his people that he had never known, and was even taught the old and forgotten Lunarian tongue (which he had shared with Zoicite at his request).

It was Artemis who told Diamond the legend of the Silver Path, a hidden kingdom long abandoned by the Lunarians and rumored to be found beyond the dreaded forests surrounding the Eastern Mountains. Finding the lost kingdom had changed everything. Zoicite forsook his comfortable life to join Diamond--said he needed a challenge and that he hated his father anyway. Other Terrans, not tied down by families and long wanting to help, also followed. Survivors and runaways began to flock to Diamond as he spread rumors of the silver path.

Gaining a hidden kingdom had been exciting and more than Diamond ever dreamed for his struggling band of followers. Now, the same sense of excitement ignited inside him. A change even greater, more powerful seemed within his grasp.

Diamond ruthlessly quizzed Zoicite on all he knew of the Lunarian's royal line, even making the man go over things he had already heard. "The queens are who ruled," Zoicite said. "A tradition dating back to the moon itself--but for greater reasons than superiority of sex. The first female born in each generation always inherited a more powerful magic. As heir and future queen, she was special, able to control all the elements. A Lunarian Queen was more than just a queen to her people; she was daughter and mother to them."

“You think it's possible... the girl we hear of now could be the queen?" Diamond probed.

"The daughter of the queen..." Zoicite mused. "The king had announced the death of the lunar family. Some even say he displayed wine glasses of the Queen's blood, circled by locks of silver hair. Those prone to embellish tales say that he even drank it though I don't give much credence to such nonsense. At the very least, he seemed certain of his victory. It would be a miracle if the princess lives... but if this man speaks the truth, then it is the only explanation." He had slanted a wiry look at the quiet Amy. "It makes sense, more than other mysteries around here."

Diamond remained quiet in thought and Zoicite advised him. "Send out messengers with letters to all the elders you know of, describing these odd events and this girl's abilities. Plead for their opinions, whether they can recognize this girl as the princess. I am afraid I can help you no more in such a matter. If this girl is indeed the queen's daughter, I am sure you understand the importance of finding her and quickly. If others should learn of her identity, I'm afraid that she won't live very long. It doesn't matter how well she has shielded herself up to this point. If we have learned of her now after all this time, it's only a matter of time before others do as well. And if the king learns of it?" Zoicite stopped, letting the implication hold tensely in the air.

Diamond knew it could take up to a fortnight or longer before he would hear back from the elders--some were quite faraway and difficult to reach. Artemis however had responded immediately, agreeing to meet him as soon as possible. There was urgency in the abruptly scrawled note that had worried Diamond. He waited in the dark room with only a glimmer of moonlight, lost in his thought, held captive by his impatience. As the hours passed, he feared he would have to wait yet another day for the man. It was nearing dawn.

The door creaked. A dark shadow moved into the room and Diamond sighed with relief. "I hope you didn't wait terribly long?" the cultured voice asked. Artemis Delacrae lifted his hand, a sphere of lightning hovering in mid-air and casting a bluish light.

"Not at all," Diamond lied smoothly. He offered his guest some wine, noting Artemis showed his silver hair--a very rare thing. He forced himself to let the older man speak first.

Artemis was infuriatingly silent for a moment, sipping his wine and then simply staring into his goblet. "You recall my adoptive daughter?" he asked suddenly.

Diamond blinked at him, wondering if Artemis was delaying the real issue. Then a smile tugged at his lips, thinking of the girl in question. "How could I forget? Is she doing well back home?"

"She's been...” Artemis hesitated, "Missing for many weeks now."

Diamond started. "What? How--when? Why didn't you tell me! Was she captured again?"

Artemis, sighing, shook his head. "Nothing like that. She ran away."

"Why would she do such a thing?" asked Diamond, bewildered, noticing the strained expression thinning Artemis's face. "Where would she go, anyhow?" Diamond continued. "She hasn't returned to me if that's what you wanted to see me about."

Artemis smiled thinly. "No, she wouldn't want to return there. I called you here tonight to tell you that she is the girl you described in your letter."

Diamond stilled and Artemis waited patiently for the significance of his statement to sink in. Memories with the girl blurred through his mind. He felt numb with realization.

He glanced suddenly at Artemis' hair that was usually brown and all of a sudden it made sense to him. The one thing that had puzzled Zoicite was the claim that the girl's hair had changed colors. He had to accept the truth. "And who is she?" he finally gasped, his breath short and hoarse.

"I think you already know," Artemis told him.

A princess that survived. Diamond nodded bleakly. Somehow he hadn't imagined the girl as a real person--a legend, symbol, hope. Now he saw Serenity in his mind's eye. Oh the excitement and expectation was still there--that hadn't died. But now he was afraid too. If knowledge that the princess still lived reached the king, he would do everything in his power to make sure she was soon dead. "Why didn't you send her to us?" Diamond demanded. "You never told me of her!" he snapped in an accusing tone.

Artemis shook his head. "I did what I felt was best. Of course I hoped, had thought, that one day she would go to you--to Ambrosia. She didn't know who she was, though, or how the world is and we were too afraid to tell her." Suddenly Diamond knew why Artemis looked so different to him. Sorrow and grief made him look older, regret weighing heavily in his eyes. There was a rasp and weakness to his voice as he spoke again. "I thought I had lost everything. I did lose everything and blamed myself for it. But then--"he looked at Diamond, "She came back. I thought... we had made a mistake all those years, sheltering her, not letting her know her own identity. I thought I was given a second chance to make things right."

Diamond waited when Artemis stopped but then realized he already knew. "That's why she ran away," he said.

Artemis nodded and Diamond's expression hardened. "We have to find her. She isn't safe."

"I thought you might feel that way," Artemis said, nodding in approval. "I will help you any way that I can but my duties will not allow me much freedom. I am staying nearby—I accepted the open invitation offered by a noble for a visit. He was quite surprised and delighted by my decision. I trust you will get word to me the moment you know where Serenity is. Do you have any idea where to start looking for her?"

Diamond slowly nodded his mind racing ahead of him. "She was last seen with the soldiers. I will go to the city and see if I can find what became of her." He offered a brief smile. "I have a few friends in high places now as it so happens.

...

It was several days before Raye noticed strange things happening. Almost a week had passed since Serenity started venturing out and she noticed a startling change had overcome her ward and young friend. Serenity took a peculiar interest in the Precinct’s affairs, staying even as she stayed obsessively clear of the abyss below. Her curiosity narrowed to pointed questions, and when Raye grew suspicious, the girl retreated. She began to hover around the other Terran officers--some of whom she hated. Raye became more suspicious when she started hearing comments from her men, declaring how charming the girl was and that a healthy curiosity didn't hurt anyone. It's good for a girl of good family, they said, to know and appreciate how the peace is maintained. They saw only innocence in her questions about the Lunarians, how they found or sold the slaves and kept track of them. She probed until they shared recent cases to explain it better to her. Those who knew Artemis laughed and said that maybe the girl would go home and bring some sense to the stubborn, proud man. Artemis was respected, but his disapproval of the Precinct was well known.

And then word reached Raye, complaints and reports of missing slaves in the city. Runaways were a rare problem in the Earth's capital, what with the Lunarian precinct so close and quick to act. Runaways in the city were given harsher punishments than one would find anywhere else, their humiliation--and sometimes death--public in order to discourage others from the same folly. Raye sent out the normal soldiers to scourge the streets as was expected of her, but none of those missing were found. It didn't bother Raye as much as it used to. It was more out of curiosity that she looked into the problem, discovering that all those missing had something in common; they had all come from the same safe house and acquired recently by the Precinct. The slaves missing were the first ones who had been sold to nearby owners who needed the extra help during the winter. Probing a little further, she was curious to find that the safe house in question was very near to the Delacrae manor.

That night's conversation was quite simple. Almost pleasant, Raye mentioned the recent problems in the city. "You've been in the city quite recently, Serenity, with that Andrew. Have you heard or seen anything?"

The blank expression and pretty innocent eyes stared back at her. Raye was almost proud of her and withhed her smile. "I'm sorry. I don't know anything," the girl said.

"Very well," Raye responded. "You will be careful, I assume?" To anyone else, the admonishment was quite practical--any young girl was advised to take caution in respect to rouge Lunarians. Raye knew her meaning could be interpreted differently however.

Serenity smiled back, eyes twinkling in humor. "Don't worry. I am always careful," she said. "Besides, Andrew's always with me in the city."

An accomplice? Raye fought hard to keep down her amusement. She seemed to be doing that a lot recently since Serenity’s arrival. Her moods, usually cool or cynical, melted when she was alone with the girl and left her strangely at ease. Situations and thoughts that had once annoyed her began to bother Raye less and less. She was also growing disinterested in the Precinct's affairs and restless in her duties. She could only hope that such feelings didn't show. Raye had never been so fond and close to another before and it was a new and strange feeling. There was a sense of contentment in her that she had never known. It was nice having someone to talk to and watch over. Serenity was a confusing mixture of charming, childish behavior and a maturing, serene determination. One looking at the girl would have trouble determining if she seemed too young or too old for her age, her expressions changed like the seasons. Quiet and mature in winter, serene and content in spring, playful in summer, thoughtful in autumn.

Raye asked no more after the girl's personal activities, but gained a new habit of watching and waiting for Serenity to return from her many jaunts to the city. Only once had Raye been tempted to go after the girl, when it was deep into the early morning hours before dawn. Then it took all her control to wait. There was a small, hidden sigh of relief seeing the girl finally drag herself through the doors. She looked weary and haunted, tense and trembling, near ready to collapse. Raye wondered at the night's events, but didn't speak a word, noting the girl's stubbornly thinned lips and a satisfaction that gleamed through whatever terror plagued her. As practical as a mother, Raye guided the girl to bed. Serenity curled up like a babe, shivering beneath heavy blankets as if in some remembered fright. Cold finger's sought out Raye's hand, grasping for comfort. Even when Serenity breathed peacefully in sleep, Raye was reluctant to leave. She might have stayed, but had her own personal activities to which she had to attend.

Assuring herself that the girl was safe, Raye noted the late hour and hurried. Somewhere this dreadfully cold night, another blonde was waiting for her and most likely growing anxious. Raye was not usually late to her midnight meetings. She rubbed her tired eyes. Soon they shone bright and alert. She began saddling her horse and was soon riding deep into the forest. She cursed the chill in her bones and the freezing air, longing to create a flame to warm her blood. Had the cold ever bothered her so much before? She wanted the warmth of fire. Ignoring such fancies and grumbling thoughts, she arrived in the small clearing in less than the best of moods. Her look darkened and warily took in the presence of two horses where only one should have been.

She carried no sword. She didn't need one. Fire itched within her. The door swung crookedly open and she sighed, forgetting her suspicions.

"Where the hell have you been?" the flustered blonde demanded. His anger didn't trouble her. She was getting used to waiting and could detect the lurking concern beneath his sulk.

"I am pleased that you would worry about me," she said, moving past him, much too eager for the fire to be polite.

Jadeite spun around and went after her, still upset. "You could still have the decency to--" Jadeite's rant stopped short, realizing Raye's attention was frozen on the silver-haired man standing within the room. Without another word, he retreated to the door.

Raye looked at Diamond curiously. With a mental shrug, she turned to the blazing fire. "Why are you here?" she asked. "Is there some revelation concerning my condition?"

Diamond arched a brow at the general's bored tone. She had been much more vocal--quite fierce really--when they had last spoken within Ambrosia. "Find out what the hell is wrong with me!" had been her own words. Now it sounded as if she didn't even care. He watched in surprised interest as the woman, oblivious to their stares, reached for a wayward flame and let it dance around her fingers. He had often seen Lunarians of fire do the exact same thing. He pushed the curious sight away for thought at a later time.

"No understanding of it, but there is something you might be interested to know," Diamond said. She waited patiently. "Another Terran girl under my protection has discovered an affinity with water... much like yours with fire."

"Well, that is interesting," Raye murmured with an almost reluctant curiosity.

Diamond shook his head, suddenly impatient. "I am afraid that is not why I am here. There are more pressing matters of concern."

"Really? Then I am curious. What is more important than Terrans with magic?"

"A girl," Diamond said. "A Lunarian living as a Terran... we have reason to believe she possesses abilities with all the elements. We also believe she was last seen with a soldier’s encampment. I thought you, in your position, might have heard something of her. If not, I had hoped you might help us in our search."

Raye's breath suddenly caught in her throat and she trapped her surprise beneath a silky layer of indifference. She rose and turned to face Diamond, sober and speculating. "I will not help you in your search," she told him after a moment.

Diamond frowned at her, frustration bristling the edges of his calm expression. "And why not? We had an agreement."

Violet eyes gleamed at him beneath soot-dark lashes. "I have no need to search for her as I have already found her. Don't worry--I assure you that she is quite safe."

Diamond broke his rigid stance and moved forward a pace and stopped abruptly, trembling with impatience and sudden anticipation. He dragged in a restraining breath. "Where is she?" he choked. "Can you bring her to us?"

Raye observed him in silence for a moment with narrowed perception. "Tell me first, why is she so special to you?"

Diamond refused to speak for a moment, two strong personalities clashing, weighing the other. Finally he sighed and admitted, "She is special not just to me. I have recently learned she is the daughter of the last Lunarian Queen, princess in her own right. Surely you see how imperative it is that we find her?"

Raye turned the matter over, considering this new information. A flutter within her blood was the only indication of surprise; no reaction surfaced upon her masked face. A girl, capable of being Queen to the Lunarians would be a monumental event. She understood Diamond's fervor but remained quiet and petulant. The very girl in question was curled upon her bed, oblivious to her fate being discussed. Diamond was anxious, his fear blatant and honest, but the same emotions could make him reckless. Did he even consider how a girl's life would change if she were to be acknowledged as queen to an enslaved people?

She knows who she is, Raye realized with growing certainty. Her actions and strange fragments of conversation lingered in Raye's mind. She had always sensed a strange uncertainty and self-doubt clinging to her small friend, a disturbing frame of mind that was something she had never fully understood and almost forgotten amidst the flurry of her smiles and thoughtful, determined looks. It wasn't gone however, merely morphed into this recent endeavor of hers. There was a frantic energy in the girl in a night such as this one had been, a fear behind the satisfaction that whatever deed she had performed wasn't good enough. She had run away from everyone, Serenity had admitted with shame. Raye could find no shame in it. It would have been rash, folly, to accept such responsibility and trials without careful thought. Was Serenity aware of the strength she gained by simply not accepting her fate? Definitely not, Raye groused to herself.

A protective need snuggled and writhed in Raye and she glared at Diamond, years of authority emblazed in the look. "I will not bring her to you. Not until she is ready."

"Ready?" Diamond scoffed, angered. "She doesn't know the danger. If her identity is discovered and she is caught, it won't mean slavery, it will mean death! Would you be responsible for her fate? For the fate of her people?"

Raye was not moved. "You have done fine without her thus far, and she without you."

Diamond stiffened. "Fine then," he said. "I will find her myself."

"Oh really?" Raye sung, challenge glinting in her eyes. "There's no need to search. Serenity lives with me, in my quarters under my protection in the Precinct. Just try and take her. I am sure a man of your position and talents could waltz right in.”

Diamond paled. "The Lunarian Precinct?" he cried weakly. "Are you out of your mind?"

"She is perfectly safe. I'll have you know that many of the soldiers there are quite fond of her. She is welcome there--you would be too, of course, but I don't think you would like the reception you would find. Would you risk it?" Raye paused, pleased at Diamond's expression. "I thought not. You are not a foolish man." Not unkindly, she said, "You have done great things and will continue to do great things as champion of your people, but this is not your decision to make. It is hers."

Raye left and Jadeite waited for her outside by the horses. "Aren't you cold?"

He shrugged, his eyes shaded and serious. "I'm used to it."

Suddenly Raye felt awkward. She didn't know how to deal with the young man when he was sober. He had amused her and made her curious, but during their many visits he had charmed her too. There was a simple, childish nature to him. He offered his friendship without restraint and or expectation. In that regard, he reminded her very much of Serenity. She envied them their giving, trusting natures. They would always be loved by those around them. How silly that the thought made her feel lonely.

She mounted her horse, the feeling that she owed him something pressing in on her. She nodded towards the cabin. "I am afraid I didn't leave your Diamond in the best of moods. I am sorry for that."

Jadeite shrugged, a smile pulling at his lips. "No need to apologize. I think I'm actually beginning to respect you."

Raye's eyes narrowed on his shifting form. "You were spying," she accused.

His eyes laughed at her and she felt unexpected warmth. "I have many talents," he said. "Humble as I am."

"Hah," Raye scoffed. Her tension released through a sigh. "I suppose you are going to tell me that I am doing the wrong thing, keeping a princess from her people."

Jadeite smiled at her, his voice turning lyrical. "Truth is a game for wise men to play, not for a humble fool as I to say. But if I were to speak my mind, to fairy a thought most kind, I would say that one who walks the path of their heart, will never a worry find."

Raye looked at him wryly. "You a fool? You only act the part for it amuses you."

His rhyming words still sung through her and warmed her blood during the cold ride back to the Precinct. She found Serenity dead asleep, and caressed the girl's brow. Two men now searched for her. One a confused prince by birth, one a misguided prince by character and circumstance. She worried, wondering what was in store for her little friend. Her shoulders squared with a new sense of purpose and she watched the dawn through the window.

...

The days following were frustrating for the ambitious Serenity. Without reason or explanation, Raye had demanded that Sparrow accompany Serenity and Andrew whenever she wished to go into the city. The others of the Precinct approved of Raye's decision, saying that, with the recent escapes, the streets were too dangerous for simply one small guard. Andrew had bristled under their significant looks. He was a scrawny fellow--more so next to the mammoth and grisly looking Sparrow--and didn't like to have it pointed out. Serenity bit her tongue, regarding Raye in puzzlement. She loved the giant soldier fiercely, but it did put a quick and sudden dreary stop to her plans.

She tried to hide her disappointment, and indeed enjoyed herself quite merrily with both Andrew and Sparrow beside her. They walked the city streets, letting silly things amuse them. Sparrow lumbered ahead of them, laughing at and then pointing out a squall around the slaughterhouse where a haggard old woman and apprentice chased a loosed chicken and into the street and local stands. Sparrow's thunderous laugh pulled many gazes from the city folk over whom he towered.

Serenity shared a bleak, understanding look with Andrew and sighed. Their giant friend, good soul that he was, was oblivious to the secret the two shared. To him Serenity was still a Terran, and her previous jaunts an innocent way for the bored girl to spend her time. Serenity thought she had occupied herself quite well recently and was restless during these aimless outings. "What if we told him?" Serenity anxiously asked Andrew once. "You know him better than I do."

The young soldier shrugged, looking unsure. "I don't think he would expose you, but why risk it?" he said. "I can't see him going along with our nightly escapades. I don't know how you ever convinced me to begin with." He saw Serenity's depressed gaze and sighed himself. He was frustrated too, but partially relieved that their adventures were put to a stop. Their last effort had nearly ended in disaster and he hadn’t fully recovered yet. He would never forgive himself if something happened to the girl. He had let himself be swayed out of his natural fears by her pleas and the new light that shone in her eyes. Indeed, he wondered if he should be grateful that they couldn't pursue such follies, no matter how noble.

And so the trio wandered the city streets, more as three friends enjoying their time together than a young girl and two guards. They became a familiar, strange sight; the towering happy giant and the lanky handsome youth dwarfing the young girl who charmed all in sight. They laughed to themselves, likening the sight to a bear and dog loving and protecting a curious, skittish kitten who loved them in return. Serenity, Sparrow, and Andrew were welcomed by any shop they entered, greeted by the bustling sellers in the street, and even scoundrels began to tip their hats.

Serenity did not linger where young ladies normally did, aside from lingering around the bridges to watch the river. She refused with stubborn resolve to ever go near the castle. They told her of the pretty gardens, courtyards, and lovely manor houses to try and tempt her to no avail. Aside from the castle, she never wanted to see the seamstress again who poked and prodded painfully and glared, no matter how lovely the dresses were. They were alluring, however, and she secretly liked them very much. Andrew had whistled at her when she first began wearing them. She didn't delight in them the way she might have once, but there was a glimmer of maidenly satisfaction. It was only natural for a girl to like to feel beautiful. The dresses were more mature than she was used to, fitting her form in a way that said she was not a child any more.

When she was tired of visiting and exploring the same places, she tagged along with Sparrow and Andrew to livelier areas where many of their friends in the ranks spent their free time. Sparrow had first grumbled complaints that they were no right places for a young lady, but Andrew and Serenity--both bored with wandering--had convinced him it would be all right. "Who would harm me anyway," Serenity had asked, "With two such fine soldiers by my side?" Sparrow had flushed in pleasure and Andrew had laughed at her.

They began to roam the dirtier, darker streets of the city slums where poor, scoundrels, and happy drunks loitered; thieves and trouble-makers eyed Andrew and Sparrow warily and gave them a wide berth. One night they stayed later than usual at a local inn housing a jaunty bar. Frequented by all kinds, it hovered on the border of respectability and a den of rogues. It was not their first visit to the place. Sparrow and Andrew enjoyed themselves and Serenity liked the busty barmaid who kept the men in line. "Beautiful," Sparrow had sighed in content, "with a good head on her shoulders. What more could a man ask for?" Both Andrew and Serenity shared a look, smothering their laughs at their love-struck friend. They told him to stay to say his goodbyes, saying they would start off and wait for him to catch up.

Serenity looked forward to their return and was distracted as they left. A mingling of tired ideas filtered through her mid... ways she might continue her double life, what she could say to Raye, the possibility of Sparrow's romance. Nothing solved itself, merely musings in her head. They walked through deserted alleys, intent on reaching the edge of the city where they had stabled their horses. Andrew stopped shortly once, staring hard into the shadows behind them. "Did you hear that?" he asked. Serenity shook her head. The wind brushed by them, a faint howl as it continued. Shivering, they continued warily. "A man could catch his death in weather this cold," Andrew muttered. "Sparrow's lucky he doesn't know what it's like for those of us without meat on our bones."

"Shouldn't he have caught up by now?" Serenity asked, hoping it was only the pursuits of love that delayed him. It wasn't a thief Serenity feared, but what if they had been careless? What if they had been seen once, if someone suspected they were behind the growing cases of runaway Lunarians? Andrew continued to look often over his shoulder and his frown worried her. Sometimes she thought she heard a shuffle or saw a moving shadow.

They rounded a corner. The very same moment a grunt and a shout tore behind them, followed by Sparrow's angry voice. Sharing a startled look, they ran back to find Sparrow struggling to hold a cloaked figure. The man's feet kicked in the air. Sparrow's girth and strong arms had lifted him off the ground. A head of silver fell free of the hood and Serenity gasped; Andrew took a quick intake of breath. Sparrow had caught a Lunarian.

"Don't hurt him!"

"Easy now!"

Both Serenity and Andrew shouted at once. Andrew added, "Come on Sparrow. You'll kill the poor man with that hold! You don't know your own strength."

Sparrow was red-faced and blustering in indignant fury. "He was trailing you two! Like hell I’m putting him down!" He yelped, his hand suddenly crystallized in ice. The bundled man fell like a heavy, dropped sack to the ground. Serenity scrambled to help the Lunarian and then stepped back, stunned, as she realized she knew him.

"Diamond?" she cried, flustered and bewildered by his appearance. He looked up at her, chagrined, only his pride seeming hurt.

Sparrow's whimper and curses pulled her attention, and she saw with worry that ice still encased the thick fingers that he cradled to his chest. Frantic, she moved to him, only one idea in her mind. She took his giant hand in hers, probing the ice with small, gentle fingers. Her eyes screwed up in concentration and a flame flurried to life in the palm of her hand. Slowly, very slowly, the ice began to melt. When only a crust of it was left, she stopped, letting Sparrow rub the stiff, painfully red fingers.

Serenity braved to meet the giant's face. He looked down at her with a silent, brooding expression. Then Sparrow turned abruptly to Andrew who looked away, embarrassed and uncomfortable under his friend's accusing stare. The Lunarian stood lazily next to Andrew, watching the scene in silence.

"You two have some explaining to do," Sparrow finally barked, his voice gruff.

Andrew stepped forward, patting Sparrow's shoulder. "Come on, Sparrow," he said, glancing wryly at Serenity and the Lunarian. "Why don't we go find ourselves a warm drink? It looks like these two might have something to talk about." He paused, seeing the proud determined stand of the handsome Lunarian and looked at Serenity searchingly. Hesitant, he asked, "You will come and find us when you're ready to return?"

"Of course." Serenity frowned. Did Andrew really think she would abandon him, without a word or goodbye? It pained her to see a resigned fear in her friend, that if not tonight, he expected her to vanish one day. It only just occurred to her that she might not have a choice. She watched her two friends go, tears blurring her vision at the thought of leaving them behind.

She remembered Diamond then, turning to see him watching her intently. A smile slowly pulled at his lips, eyes softening. "You look well, kitten," he said. Approval wavered in his eyes and she blushed faintly, pulling her loosed cloak tighter around her.

Serenity was at a loss for what to say. "How long have you been following me?" she finally asked.

Diamond shrugged. "A few days," he said. "Those two never left you alone. I would have approached sooner."

"But why?" Serenity asked, still puzzled.

There was a pause. Diamond drew in a long breath. "I want you to come back to Ambrosia with me."

She looked at him in surprise, trying to read further into his words. Perhaps before she might have left with him, but now she shook her head. "I don't want to leave. I'm safe enough here. The general herself is taking care of me, protecting my secret."

"Protecting you?" Diamond shouted suddenly and she was startled by his anger. "How can you possibly be safe in that... that place!"

Her smile was strained, her expression pleading. "Isn't that my decision? It hasn't been so bad."

"No, you don't understand," Diamond said, his expression unflinching. "They'll kill you if they find out who you are. You sleep in a den of snakes."

Serenity paled. Of course, she had always known there was that chance... but it was easy to forget. "They won't find out I'm a Lunarian," she said stubbornly.

"Not a Lunarian," Diamond corrected, his eyes imploring. "A Lunarian princess."

Neither of them moved. Serenity's heart stilled, a faintly sick feeling rising within her. She blinked at him. It was a long moment before she truly comprehended the words. Her heart thumped painfully in her chest. Air rushed through her throat as she opened her mouth, but no sound passed her lips. Diamond waited as she floundered, struggled to speak. Finally, she grasped a thread of sound. "Artemis and Luna told you?" she accused, her voice strangled.

Diamond looked at her steadily. "I would have found you anyway. Did it occur to you that the Lunarian family would speak of the one who had saved them, a girl who could control many elements? That girl was you."

Serenity was uncomfortable, panic and denial wavering beneath her flesh. Hadn't she run from them so they wouldn't know of her? She drew in a tight, winded breath. "Couldn't you just leave me be?" she begged. Her fingers curled into fists and shook. "Please? Just pretend you didn't find me."

"Do you know how much it would mean to them," Diamond demanded, "to know that they have a princess? What are you so afraid of and why run from us?" He looked honestly baffled. "It's not much, but there is a kingdom waiting for you. People who would love and protect you with their lives--"

"I don't want that!" Serenity shrieked, cutting him off. All the frustration and fear in her surfaced. "What do you expect of me?" she gasped. "What good is being a princess? Nothing! I can't save them. I can't give them hope. I won't have anyone die for me!"

Her voice rang through the empty alley, drifting in the air. Her whispered breaths came in harsh gasps. Diamond waited for her to calm. Her voice was soft when she spoke again, a depreciating, imploring smile on her lips. "You have given them everything. What have I ever done?"

"You could give them everything just by being alive, just by being safe, being with them," Diamond insisted.

"I will not go," Serenity whispered, glancing away. She gathered a semblance of composure, straightening her shoulders and lifting her head high. She missed the odd, wondering look Diamond gave her; oblivious of the presence she suddenly gave. She stared at him, sapphire eyes huge against her pale face. "If you care for me or your people at all, forget what you know. You're the one who they need. If you need my blessing, then you have it. Just leave me in peace.” She didn't wait for Diamond's answer, turning back through the alley and slowly walking away. Newly falling snow stung her cheek like tears, muffling her steps; a distant storm of emotions spun within her. She ignored the weakness in her legs and ignored the darkness around her. Her body was cold, so very cold.

She didn't know what being guided her steps or gave her strength when she felt so weak. Without seeing anything around her, she found Andrew and Sparrow back at the inn. They waited for her in the snow. She trembled before them, hesitating as she remembered Sparrow had only just learned the truth of her identity. Nothing had changed in her mind, but everything could have changed in his. She looked desperately up at him, suddenly feeling lost and unsure. The pressure in her chest, the fury of unknown emotions was too much. Her legs collapsed beneath her and her mind spun darkly. The ground and snow was wet and freezing beneath her, the grime of the streets spoiling her dress--she didn't care. Words died in her throat as she stared into nothingness, her expression haunted. Without a word, Sparrow lifted her into arms that were gentle. She gave herself into the warm embrace, drifting to sleep.

...

Raye stared at the elegantly scrawled note. At first she scowled--she was easily irritated after Diamond's efforts to reach Serenity. This new turn of events could only complicate things more. But then the visage of annoyance cleared, as if it had been merely an illusion. Her lips curved in a smile. Complicated indeed, but there were interesting possibilities. Curiosity weaved through her, coiling about her ideas. Surely, it would do no harm to meet with the prince as per his request? He would find if odd if she didn't, perhaps odd enough to pay her a visit. She wasn't quite sure if she was ready to let him meet her current guest.

She waved a dismissive hand at the messenger. The lad had grown anxious in her presence and scurried off quickly. She checked with heavy lidded eyes that she was truly alone. Her fingers coaxed a flame out of the air, catching and licking at the note. Satisfaction tugged her as the fire ate at the paper, as if watching an obedient and much loved pet.

The prince urged her to maintain secrecy in respect to the meeting--something with which the general now had plenty of experience. There was much she still wanted to learn from the prince. More so as he was the one subject Serenity avoided.

Raye took her time getting ready and riding into the city. It would do him good to wait a little, she thought. Late evening fell into the earliest hours of night by the time she arrived in the courtyards, properly tying her horse and keeping it out of sight. She slipped like a black cat through the winter encased gardens. Branches dripped with ice and snow dressed the empty beds as if a blanket for the flowers to sleep.

The prince paced anxiously along the walk, stopping with relief when he saw her. Raye, without drawing attention to herself, observed him and saw him anew. He was a handsome young man. A shroud of ebony hair over pale, noble features. Even through his anxiety, his shoulders rose with inherent authority. A black, beautifully rich cloak wrapped his form and skirted the ground, a clasp of a gold and silver holding the cloak in place. A young, impressionable girl could easily fall for such a man's charms, came her sulking thought. The prince was notoriously pursued by women--it was about time that he did the pursuing.

"You're highness?" she murmured with the necessary bow.

He waved her formality aside, impatient. "Never mind that. My father sent me away to visit two of the other kingdoms. I have only just returned--what news do you bring me?"

Raye shook her head. "First, you must tell me what interest you have in the girl. What is she to you for you to search so desperately?"

The prince stiffened and glowered at her, suddenly tense and wordless.

Perhaps he truly didn't know, Raye conceded. It was high time he faced the truth and she would help him do that. "Did she affront your highness in some way? Some personal insult to your pride?" she prompted, watching the prince squirm uncomfortably. "Perhaps a slave's life wasn't punishment enough. When you find her, should she be killed as a show for all to see?"

"No!" the prince gasped in horror and rage.

Raye hid her spark of triumph, keeping her expression and voice bored. "I am afraid I am not very imaginative, my prince," she sighed. "What other reason could there be? Enlighten me."

Endymion stared at her tightly, seeming to be undergoing a great struggle. He lifted his head with all the arrogance of a prince. "You have no authority to question me," he said.

"And yet you expect me to keep this secret of yours?" Raye questioned sweetly. "I am sure the king would be very interested in this new obsession of yours. I am sure he would approve if you sought public retribution. Indeed, he might take on such an honor himself in the name of his only son."

Endymion stared at her, white as death. "You wouldn't!" he accused.

Of course she wouldn't, but the prince didn't know such a thing. She smiled at him. "Would you like to test me?"

Raye almost felt pity for the blatant fear and confusion wrestling in the prince's sapphire eyes. After a moment, he let out a gusty breath, a faint tremble about him. He pulled his voice forth, reluctant and dragging. "She kept her identity from me," he finally said, as if that alone explained everything. Raye might have hit him if he hadn't continued. "She seemed a Terran, and I loved her as I have never loved another. I just--I only know that I have to find her. I mean the girl no harm." The prince flushed, looking down with feverish eyes.

The coldness about Raye eased and she stared at him sadly. "And what shames you the most, prince? That you loved a Lunarian, or that you let her go?"

Endymion looked at her, his visage lost and beseeching. She saw a proud young boy who was torn by a love he knew he could never have. Anger was his only defense against such hopelessness. And Serenity? Had she loved such as this? Could she still love him, for all that his pride and confusion caused him to abandon her so utterly? Raye was suddenly disgusted with the world that could create such heartbreak. Endymion didn't even know he loved a princess. Such a love would be treason. Doomed to fail or end in further heartache. And was that it? Hide Serenity and never let them meet, to never have another chance. Rebellion bloomed like fire in Raye's blood and her decision was made. A wise fool had told her one should follow their heart.

She drew in a long, cooling breath, and her posture altered in such a way as if she cried war to the world. She threw her head back in a determined manner, glaring at the mournful prince. "Away with you gloom prince," she snapped, not unkindly. "I have found your Serenity. She lives under the pretense of a Terran under my protection. You have told me what I wanted to know. I will arrange for her to meet with you three days hence in this very place."

Endymion looked at her in astonishment, hope and excitement on his face.

"Don't expect too much," she warned him. "She's never spoken of you and I can't say that she will forgive the wrong you have done her."

Her words didn't faze him and she sighed in frustration. A prince of darkness and a man of silver--both were far too eager for their own good. Raye worried about her friend and what this would do to her. Whether Serenity liked it or not, though, there were too many emotions burdening these two that needed to be resolved one way or the other. She only hoped the girl would forgive her for her meddling. She bid the prince farewell, leaving him alone to drown in his thoughts. It would be an agonizing three days for both individuals.

...

Serenity roused and, moaning, burrowed back into her haven of twisted covers and pillows. An unforgiving hand pulled her quilts away from her and she squirmed in the sudden cold. "Don't you have more important things to do?" she grumbled. "You never have time for me in the morning."

"It's not morning," Raye said dryly. "You're withering away in your bed. I've allowed you to mope about too long. I don't feel sorry for you anymore. When was the last time you went out with Andrew and Sparrow?"

Serenity flushed with guilt, letting Raye prod her up and dress her as if she were a sullen child who wouldn't get ready if she was left to her own devices. "I have gone out with them," she defended, but her claim was weak and Raye knew it. Serenity was afraid to stay in the city for long. Though she didn't see him, it always felt as if Diamond was watching and waiting for her. It made her uneasy. If he faced her again, she wasn't so sure how strong she would remain in her convictions. She was surprised she had stood up to him so well the first time. Why chance a second?

She frowned, suddenly paying attention and coming out of her daze. Raye had made Serenity don her prettiest rose dress and was currently tugging her golden hair into a loose, wispy braid. "What's all the fuss for?"

"I want you to come out with me somewhere tonight." She paused--if Serenity thought Raye was capable of sulking, she would think the next words sounded thus. "But before that you have a visitor right now. Just keep your head and you'll be fine."

Serenity noticed Raye's frown before it smoothed away. She guessed the visitor was unexpected and not quite welcome. She wondered in bewilderment who would visit her. Such fussing couldn't possibly be for Andrew or Sparrow. Raye gave her no time to concern herself, nearly pushing Serenity out the door. She followed the taller woman who had resumed a general's stiffness. Raye led her to the floor below and a closed room. With a resigned sigh, the general knocked briefly on the door and it gave way beneath the disturbance. Raye gestured for Serenity to go in, muttering something about tricks and cheating.

Baffled, Serenity had noticed with vague realization that Raye didn't follow behind her. And then she stopped short, completely distracted. An older, aristocratic looking man stood within. Soft, noble lines matured his face, familiar and long chestnut hair swept back and secured with a tie. He stood, looking at Serenity with gentle, swimming eyes. Elation and horror filled her, but she quickly forgot the latter. With a soft cry, she ran to Artemis--enveloped by a father's embrace. She held him in a tight hug, shedding happy tears. Regret poured into her for having left the way she did. As her sniffling subsided, words fell from her lips as if released by a dam. "Why--how did you find me? Is Luna with you? I'm sorry--I'm so sorry. Can you forgive me?"

She still hugged him and reluctantly let him push her back. His hands remained--comforting--on her shoulders. "No, it's just me. Diamond told me where you were. There's nothing to forgive." His tightened his grip, his eyes suddenly pained. "I'm just glad to find you are safe."

"Are you staying long?" Serenity asked, hope in her voice.

Artemis looked at her strangely but then smiled. "Others would think it odd if my visit was brief. A father is expected to spend time with his daughter, isn't he? I am yours until evening."

Serenity was delighted and they whiled the afternoon away, barely touching the supper they were served. Excitedly, Serenity shared her adventures with Artermis. The soldier's camp, befriending Andrew and Artemis, the Lunarian family she saved. Everything. She bloomed under Artemis' proud visage, missing the contemplative expression that lingered on his face. She spoke of Raye, the Lunarians--old friends--she had liberated in the city, of times spent with Andrew and Sparrow. Artemis let her speak, content to listen. She didn't trail off until well into the evening. Then she fell silent, hesitant about mentioning Diamond and suddenly morose in her thoughts.

Artemis, sensing that her stories were at an end, rose from his seat. "It is getting late, and my kind host near the city will be expecting me. I will be nearby if you have need of me."

Serenity nodded. She was comforted by the thought. Pausing, Artemis considered her warily. "I have to confess that Diamond asked me to reason with you."

"Reason with me?" Serenity asked faintly, alarm on her face. If Artemis tried to persuade her, she didn't think she could refuse him. She waited, fearful in her expectation.

Artemis shook his head. "I had expected to do just that, but now find that I can't. You have flown the nest, little Serenity, and flown well. You deserve to choose your own path from here."

Serenity looked down, moved to tears. Lifting her chin, Artemis added meaningfully, "For what it's worth. I think you would make a fine queen." The words filled Serenity with a curiously light sensation. She didn't think he was right, of course, but it felt wonderful to hear coming from Artemis. There were few people she admired and loved as much as she did her adoptive father.

A frown plagued his features as he regarded her. "Of course, I am not very happy that you are staying here--of all places--but you seem to have a few protectors. I trust you will be careful?"

Serenity gave a wry smile. "How could I forget?" she asked pertly. "Everyone keeps reminding me."

Chuckling, Artemis cradled her face and kissed her forehead. They left the room together, saying their tearful goodbyes once more. Serenity sagged against a wall, exhausted but happy.

"Well, that was interesting," Raye mused, suddenly beside her. "The reunion went well, I see. You look as pleased as a petted cat." Serenity smiled brighter. Raye sighed and shrugged. "No harm done then. His visit even gave credit to your presence here. Are you ready to go now?”

"Go?" Serenity looked blankly at the winter cloaks Raye held across her arm. "Go where?"

"I told you this morning I had plans for you tonight," Raye admonished. "Did you forget?"

Serenity blushed. "Oh--that's right. I vaguely remember something like that. Couldn't we go tomorrow, Raye? I'm very tired."

Raye smiled mysteriously, shadows in her eyes. "No. It has to be tonight," she said. She primped Serenity's hair and draped one of the cloaks around the younger girl's shoulders, donning the other one herself.

Serenity went, unresisting. The idea of going into the city with Raye was a tempting one as she had only ever gone with Andrew and Sparrow. Raye rode without speaking, almost brooding, on her black stallion named Shadow. Serenity was oblivious to the woman's silence, content on her favorite dapple-gray mare and still drifting on a cloud. Seeing Artemis again and knowing she had his approval vastly improved her dour mood. All her worries seemed insignificant, like a flutter of snow that melted too close to the flame.

It didn't occur to her to question Raye on where they were going as they made their way through the streets, following the Kaleia River through the scramble of buildings and prettier sights of the city. Serenity watched the glimmer of golden light from street torches and home windows on the water surface. Like small golden flickers, they danced around the serene reflection of the silver moon. Concern didn't reach her until, uncomfortably, she realized they never turned and headed straight towards the courtyards before the castle. A tremor of unease ran through her as they continued under the great, looming arch. "Must we come here, Raye?" she pleaded. "Couldn't we go somewhere else?"

"Nonsense," Raye said. "If you can live at the Precinct then you have nothing to fear here."

Serenity sank in her seat and cowered. It was much easier waylaying Andrew and Sparrow. She glanced around the shaded courtyard, thinking sadly that they were right. She would have enjoyed this place. The main road followed across the way to the castle gate, where fountains sprouted prettily in corners and statues stood cold in beautiful contrast to the white snow; this surrounding the courtyard that gave way to a labyrinth of gardens, steps, and walls.

They dismounted and Raye told Serenity to wait for her as she found a place for the horses. She watched with apprehension as the woman faded into the gloom of a nearby pathway and found herself suddenly very alone. Her warm breaths bloomed in the frosty air. The courtyard giving off a silvery glow, ice glistened upon lonely stone faces. Silence rang like a mournful song--or was that the wind? She stood as long as she could, burrowing into her cloak for warmth and comfort but it provided neither. The moments drifted endlessly as if time held its breath. Raye was a dream, a comfort nowhere to be seen. She grew worried when the woman hadn’t returned, disturbed at being left alone in such a place. Her flesh tingled, as if unseen eyes watched her in the night.

"Raye?" she called, nervous at the sound of her voice and the reply of silence. If she simply followed into the path that Raye had taken, she couldn't get lost, Serenity reasoned. Anything was better than standing still. She ventured through the ivy-run archway, onto a cold path flanked by large stone walls. Ivy and vines continued to hang overhead, branching and following her, dripping over the sides. She calmed slightly, feeling Raye was surely ahead of her and peering around with reluctant admiration and wonder. Steps rose to a circular clearing with various exits. She paused--not knowing which path to follow.

She walked to the middle, sighing in disappointment. As she looked around, one of the snowy beds caught her eye. Captivated and dreamlike she walked over, staring at a dark green bush. It sprouted as a solitary beacon in the snow against the wall, all of its peers lost or sleeping in winter’s embrace; ice crusted small jagged leaves wrapped that wrapped themselves around deeply red roses. Her breath grew faint and her eyes wished to cry. Her fingers longed to feel one of the velvet petals, but instead curled tightly at her side. Roses had thorns--and this one brought memories even more painful.

"Serenity?" they seemed to whisper to her in a familiar sighing voice, both melodious and hoarse. She stared a moment longer, frozen in her dreams and nightmares. A footstep crushed the snow behind her. She waited, heart fluttering, and another followed. Roses didn't have voices. Trembling, she stepped back. A hand--hesitant, fluttering--landed on her shoulder. Someone breathed above her. She turned, slowly tilting her face up. Tears slipped unrestrained down her cheeks.

Her eyes closed. It was too painful. The glimpse of ebony hair, of sapphire eyes. It was better to pretend she was dreaming. Her breaths struggled like a drying butterfly beneath her breasts. A warm finger trailed her icy face, touches of fire. Fire rested a moment on her lips and a cry escaped her throat. She pushed the dream away, stepped back. Her eyes opened, trembling with tears. "You're not really here," she whispered, her voice breaking. "You're never really here." As if he truly was a dream, he didn't seem to have a face, have an expression, have a voice. He only stepped forward like a beloved shadow, arms wrapping around her--gentle, as if she would break.

"I'm sorry." It was the rose's whisper again, barely a sigh, softer than the breeze, more pained than thorns. The words whispered again, the embrace tightened like a warm night. A scent sweeter than the rose's. Her face burrowed in his chest, fingers curled in a black cloak. She cried, almost a laugh. Sorrow and grief poured free, a river of faraway memories. Every moment, every torture, every fear slipped through her tears. He was a dream, her nightmare. She loved him and she hated him.

She breathed deeply of him, face resting against the rising lulls of his chest. In those precious moments, the world didn't exist. The world was the dream. Nothing mattered to her, lost in the cruelest joy she had never known. This was more than a child's love, more than heartbreak or sorrow. She sighed, a shuddering sound--a thousand farewells, a thousand murmurs of welcome. A hand stroked her hair.

"Serenity," he whispered, still in the dream. "I'll hide you. I'll keep you safe."

His voice tugged her thoughts, her mind waking sluggishly. Ice ran through her blood, twisted around her beating heart. Once those words were everything she wanted to hear, had coveted with all her being. Now something within her rebelled, resenting the words. Hidden? The prince's dark secret? The world crept back around her, its claws pulling her away and her eyes fading into the distance. "I'm a Lunarian."

"That doesn't matter," he said, stubborn like a child, not wanting to let go.

For the first time she met his eyes, crystal meeting sapphire. "It does to me."

He looked bewildered, confused. Frustration stirred beneath his gaze. "Why?"

"Why should I live tucked away safe and sound, while my people live as slaves?" she asked. A nut of reason surfaced inside her, an unconscious realization. Hidden and safe, she thought, like a worthless princess concealed in a mountain.

The prince shook his head. "We can't change the world," he said.

"But you're the prince of earth," she pleaded. If anyone had the power to change things...

His expression hardened, his voice cold as winter. "No," he said. "One man, even one prince, can't change centuries of hatred. And what if I did try? My father would kill you before my eyes. And if I waited for him to die--waited to be king--it would make no difference. A king is easily ruled by the people--an unwanted king may be replaced. The Terran kingdom stands strong on the alliances of others--the lesser kingdoms would turn on me, their vows would mean nothing. Truly, in what way are they lesser? They would destroy us. Better slaves of the world than slaves of death."

Serenity thought she was looking at a stranger. She didn't know this man, this prince of earth. The world cherished him, held their breath at his every move, and yet he bore responsibilities and a cynical wisdom that she couldn't comprehend. She was afraid of him. He was the one who had turned away from her, left her to the brutality of a slave's life and remembered betrayal. She felt weak in his presence; her heart ached with a storm of fire and ice of such fury she feared it would destroy her.

The prince sighed, his coldness melting. He was Endymion again, warmth in his eyes. Serenity sensed the ice still, lingering beneath the surface. It was a part of him. The prince was his shadow. "Why must we discuss such things?" he pleaded. He reached out to touch her face—she flinched away, and he froze.

Her eyes fell with a disturbing thought, sliding warily over the necklace strung around her neck. Her rose-colored dress clung low over her breasts. The golden charm hung, taunting her, alone over pale skin. With a dream-like, blurred motion, she pulled the necklace off. Holding her breath on instinct, remembering a similar occasion, she forced herself to breathe again, soft gentle breaths, one after the other. Her hair turned silver, winter's snow conquering the gold of autumn. Wisps curled around her face, a soft sheen, a glimmer under the moon's glows. She forced herself to watch him, to see the way he stiffened. To see fear and doubt echo in his eyes. Tears burned in her eyes but she refused to look away.

He seemed to find himself, shoulders rising with a proud breath and his noble chin lifted rebelliously. His eyes returned her stare like blue fire, as if to scoff that her silver hair no longer mattered to him. But it was too late. She had seen him falter in that instant. A pressure was crushing her within her chest. Her fingers, shaking, curled tighter over the charm of her necklace. Suddenly, she hated it. Wanted to throw it away--knowing that was foolishness. And yet it burned in her hand.

She looked at Endymion, looked at her prince, her heart breaking all over again. The tears on her face dried--a desert thirsting for rain. She straightened and matched his willful gaze, drawing all the strength she had left. "You can't love me," she told him. "If you don't love all that I am. Or would you expect me to hide myself from you, and not just from the world?"

He looked struck by her words, wounded, struggling to contain his fury and frustration. "Don't be a fool, Serenity," he begged.

She shook her head sadly, feeling herself slipping away from him. Endymion felt it too and moved towards her in desperation, bruising her arms as he grabbed her and shook her softly. "I am giving you as much as I can! Isn't that enough?" he asked, voice breaking and moisture in his eyes.

Tears pricked her vision. His grief was her grief. The wounds she gave now, she gave to herself. She choked on her words, knowing them to be true. "No. It isn't enough!" she told him, meeting his gaze. Her voice softened, gentle in their command. "Let me go now, Endymion. You have to let me go."

"No!" Endymion shouted--a vicious, wounded cry. Serenity had no warning. He stole her lips in a desperate kiss. Heat, lust, and pride attacked her mouth, and then something worse… a desperate, overwhelming sense of agony and longing. She struggled but his grip hardened. Gasping and crying, her lips couldn't escape his. Tears fell as a river of fear and love broke through her. The kiss, once conquering, turned gentle and loving. A greater pain seared through her and with it despair. It still wasn't enough. It would never be enough. He continued to kiss her. His arms refused to let her go.

Trapped and imprisoned, panic rose from within her and she called out a silent plea for help. A blustery, angry wind spun around them, pushing him from her with sudden force. He stumbled in the snow. Confusion, hurt, and fear slipped over his expression. A crystal tear trailed down his face as he looked at her, stunned and knowing what she had done. The air whipped like hissing snakes. It circled around her in loyal, content waves as it whispered to sleep.

A shadow fell over the prince and his face grew suddenly dark. He gave her a wild and bitter look. "Fine then! If that's the way it is to be, than I don't need you. I never needed you! Leave--go back to your precious silver-haired people! They are cursed, weak and foolish creatures… and you are one of them. You think that you can save them? You were right. I don't care about them--so why should I care about you?"

Serenity stepped back, her face white as the snow at her feet and her heart struggling to beat. He didn't mean it, she told herself. He was angry and hurt. His words injured her all the same. And what did it matter why he said them? They weren't born out of thin air. There had to be a hidden feeling, a resentful thought that bred such cruelty. He was too proud and she had grown stubborn. She wasn't a flowering, weak girl anymore who would fall in tears at his feet and beg for his love--he had made sure of that. It was his betrayal--his abandonment--that made her what she was. He didn't accept that she was a Lunarian, only tried to overlook it. And she couldn't accept the prince that he was, in his arrogance and prejudice. Once they had loved innocently, naively. Now there was too much bitterness, too much hurt--the world stood in their way. Their pride didn't allow the surrender needed for love.

Her voice trembled and broke--a mournful wind. "What love could ever survive between us?" She smiled painfully at the truth. Water shivered, piercing, in her eyes but she held them back. What good was controlling the rains and the floods if one couldn't control their own tears? She faced the prince before her with sorrow and frustration, but her fear of him was gone. His image had haunted and tortured her for so long, a phantom prince of her dreams and nightmares. But this darkly beautiful, foolish man before her was flesh and blood. He held no power, no authority, over her. Her weakness was her own and she refused to surrender to it. Love was a gift freely given and she would take it back, bury it in the furthest corner of her memories where it belonged.

Her eyes narrowed to a shimmer of a blue fury. "You know nothing of who I am! Your love is a farce. This is the last night I will ever shed tears over you," she said

Endymion lurched forward, his glare both freezing and burning as he touched her face and lifted her chin so that she had to stare at him. Had to face his cold rage. She forced herself not to be cowed by his overwhelming presence, forced herself not to tremble at his touch.

"You are wrong," he said in a soft voice, his breath warm on her face. For the briefest moment, she believed he would proclaim his love true, and her body traitorously stilled in longing. His thumb brushed her lip, soft as a rose petal. His voice and sudden gentleness was the flower's rich beauty. The threat rested and held back within his eyes as he continued, his words deeper and more stinging than the stab of thorns. "You will regret this night. You will dream of what you refused, all that you lost and had a chance to have, and you will cry for me. I swear to you now that you will cry for me."

Serenity stumbled back, faint and gasping as winter and stone spun around her. She turned and fled, missing the tormented gaze that followed after her--desperate and weak with rage and the other emotions pulling her apart. She collided into and pushed away from the cold walls. Her skirts caught and swarmed around her. I hate him, she thought. I hate him! She wouldn't regret this night and she would prove him wrong. Somehow she would prove him wrong. Pain ripped through her, greater than she had ever known. Her chest burned and she could hardly breathe. Her surroundings blurred and flashed around her, but she was lost within.

Breaking free into the courtyard, she fell into the drifts of snow, sobbing. Her body stiffened like an animal's when she felt somebody’s arms wrap themselves around her, but relaxed when she heard a woman's comforting murmurs. Turning, she burrowed into Raye's embrace, her tears an endless river. His words seemed to strangle her, grip her like poison. She couldn't push the visions away, couldn't help but wonder what could have been. If she had surrendered, let him protect and love her, let him pretend. She cried harder into the night, sick with sorrow and a heart twice broken.

Edited by Loki