|
Post by hinorei on Nov 25, 2014 10:36:54 GMT -5
Rei gave a nod and crossed the open waters of the bath to take a seat in front of Serenity. This was another strange bathing custom, but one that she accepted with a smile. The people of the moon were very intimate with those whom they felt a deep bond with and bathing your closest friends was just another tradition.
There was a great deal of truth in the Moon Princess' words as she spoke about calling her planet dangerous. And at the same time she understood her frustration with the burden of her title and her mother's refusal to let her train with them. It was a decision that perplexed the Princess of Mars, for on her home planet even the most pampered nobles could defend themselves.
"I neither understand nor agree with your mother's refusal to let you train with us. You have powers and the will to fight. I realize that as heiress to the Moon Kingdom you have a certain image to maintain, but I see no reason why you shouldn't be allowed at least some training."
In truth, Rei understood Serenity's frustration. They all did. Surely there must be a way they can help her to be happy as well as look after her.
Makoto was far more brilliant than she gave herself credit for. It was a simple request, and yet one that would easily solve their problems. They could tell Serenity a hundred times not to go back to Earth, and with every word they would only drive her further away. They trusted each other completely. Why force her to keep something from them when the solution was so simple? When Serenity had finished washing her, Princess Rei turned to face her and placed a gentle hand on her shoulder.
"Serenity, we aren't here because of some obligation or preordained destiny. We're here because you are our friend, our sister, and we care about you. Simply put, we don't want anything bad to happen to our friend. And so I think Makoto has put forth a rather ingenious resolution: Next time you find yourself stricken with wanderlust take us with you. That way we can protect you while we explore. This will also give you the opportunity to change our minds about Earth and its people."
Her fingers gave Serenity's soft shoulder a gentle squeeze, then released their grip as she backed away so Princess Makoto could have her turn. When the Moon Princess mentioned the young man she'd met, Princess Makoto stepped in, questioning her about him. Rei simply smiled and took her seat. Matters of the heart were the specialty of the Venetian and Jovian princesses. Though the Princess of Mars had questions about the ceremony, she figured they would have to wait until Serenity divulged her secrets about this strange young man.
[Tag: Minako, Makoto, Ami, Serenity]
|
|
|
Post by Usagi_Tsukino_Kagetsu on Nov 26, 2014 9:29:19 GMT -5
Serenity let a small gasp escape her lips as she blinked a few times, growing flustered by Makoto’s questions. She nearly dropped the large glass bottle of shampoo she had selected, hopping about in the water like a fool as it bobbled from one hand to the other, before she settled.
“Well he…well I…” She brought a hand up over her cheek, her fingertips tapped excitedly along the skin, her head tilted to the side as crimson continued to spread strongly across her cheeks.
“I guess he was all of those things.” She said after a moment, tugging the Jovian Princess near her to bath her.
“He was at the spar tournament. In fact, he won. So, he’s a very strong warrior. But, outside of the arena, he was warm and gentle—kind.” She added, expression softening.
Serenity’s arm snaked about the Jovian Princess’ body, moving nearer as she began washing off the lather. She wondered if the woman could feel her heart beat. She almost couldn’t process the next moments between the loud thumps.
“But he didn’t even know who I was. If he had, I’m sure he wouldn’t have treated me the same way.” She frowned, beginning to wash the other woman’s hair. It reminded her so much of Makoto’s persona. It was strong, had a natural bounce, but it was surprisingly soft.
Serenity’s heart melted. She released Makoto from her hold with a nod of respect. She brought a hand carefully to her chest, closing her eyes momentarily. “Rei-Chan…” She said, lips pursed. Her words meant so much to Serenity, who had been spinning in her lack of confidence. It was empowering to hear someone so committed to her, for her.
Maybe Endymion wouldn’t fear who she was. But, she’d never know. She’d never see him again.
A genuine smile spread about her lips. Serenity seemed aglow with the opportunity to connect all the girls to this strange new world she had visited. She opened her mouth. “Oh! Makoto, the flowers are so beautiful. Unlike anything I’ve ever seen. And Rei, the wind… it just creates the most natural calm. And Ami…”
“Serenity, stop.” Minako cut in. Sucking in a deep breath, she bent her knees, letting the warm waters flood her senses. She rubbed the side of her neck uncomfortably. “It all sounds beautiful, but you simply can’t go there again.” Her gaze narrowed as she looked to Makoto and Rei. “We all love you so much Serenity and because of that we forget our duty. We are to protect you now in all ways. We would be remiss as guardians if we let you go to Earth at anytime — let you unknowingly break laws. Laws that you know exist.” She said flatly, shaking her head.
“With every trip you put this Kingdom in danger. I know it seems so silly. But if something were to happen to you, or information of your visits got to the wrong people in the Kingdom, in an innocent act, you could start a war.” She reasoned.
Serenity’s heart sank. Eyes that twinkled with possibility and excitement now seemed so sad. Minako was so cold. She hadn’t expected such a statement from her friend. Was Minako her friend? Was Rei right? Or, would there be a wall between them now, separating their friendship from these new roles and duties.
“I understand, Minako. I would never put the Kingdom in such danger.” She said in a defeated tone. She then turned away from the group, taking in a long, strained breath. She felt raw and emotional. Why was she so torn and sad?
She plunged deep within the water for a moment as if to escape them all, to gather herself before coming back to the surface. “It’s been a long day for all of us.” She added after a moment of silence. “I can finish up here, while you each get settled in your rooms.” She tiptoed back to the carrier to bath herself, rather than have them stay.
“We can meet early in the morning to prepare for your introduction to court at the ball then.” She offered.
[Tag Ami, Rei, Makoto]
|
|
|
Post by Princess Jupiter on Nov 26, 2014 11:06:34 GMT -5
Makoto enjoyed Serenity’s feverish blush. To her it spoke of the depth of Serenity’s infatuation with this earth man. It was the emotional equivalent of what Serenity extended to her as she was pulled in for her turn at the bath. Touching sensitive areas that one usually kept to oneself. Ticklish, yet thrilling. Awkward, but delightful. Makoto was sure that Serenity would have loved to continue talking about this man, but perhaps she didn't how to translate those heartbeats into words.
“Got to say, Serenity, I’m jealous.” The woman said as she enjoyed Serenity’s gentle touch on her scalp, “It’s a shame you had to let him go…but who knows, it is a small universe.” she said with a wistful smile. She knew the laws of the kingdom, but this kind of fateful romantic encounter seemed so much more real to Makoto than laws and politics and obligations. The later held everything together, but the former is what made everything worth holding together. Maybe she was giving Serenity a false sense of hope, but Makoto wanted to live vicariously through that high for a bit.
Makoto moved away with a thankful squeeze of Serenity’s arm and continued to listen to her adventure until MInako interrupted. Like a bucket of cold water in those soothing baths, Minako’s words fractured the mood beyond repair. Mako saw the sorrow in Serenity’s eyes, saw how quickly she retreated, and Makoto reacted as if Minako had kicked a purring kitten. She turned on her captain seeing red,
“Minako! By the Storm, was that really necessary? Isn't Serenity allowed to dream like anyone else? We’re guardians to protect her, not seal her away from everything good and beautiful! Why bother with guardians if she’s not even free to leave the safety of this palace? No better than guarding a damned statue!”
She balled her hands into fists, but she knew it was not Minako she should be angry at, it was the law that Minako’s job was to enforce. A higher responsibility. A greater obligation. That wave of helplessness and entrapment to laws greater than her power to overcome them broke over Mako and she turned and stormed away. She was regretting her outburst even as she said it, but how could she help it? None of them deserved to have their dreams crushed because of other people’s worries and fears of the unknown. She wanted to go to Serenity and pledge to sneak off with her as often as she wanted, to soothe her wounded dreams, but she couldn't bear to just give more vain hope to the hurting girl. Now she just needed to find something to beat up so that she could apologize later…if she could even force the words out.
Tag: Minako, Rei, Serenity, Ami.
|
|
|
Post by hinorei on Nov 28, 2014 20:18:46 GMT -5
It was rare that Rei found herself in a position to be a bastion of peace, but in this instant she felt she must do something. Minako's harsh criticism had made Serenity retreat inside of herself and Makoto's outburst was only making things worse. The Princess of Mars stood slowly and spoke in a calm, even tone.
"Everyone, please. This is no way for us to act on the eve of a ceremony where we will be celebrating coming together as one. Let's table the subject for now and instead focus on what will happen tomorrow. Serenity, please don't leave yet. Tell us what you have planned tomorrow."
Hoping that was enough to calm things down, Rei slowly lowered herself back into the water.
[Tag: Serenity, Minako, Makoto, Ami]
OOC: Sorry it's so short! It's harder for me to post from home sometimes!
|
|
|
Post by Princess Jupiter on Nov 29, 2014 8:39:16 GMT -5
Makoto paused in her retreat when Rei spoke and turned around. Standing there with her bare skin exposed to the stars, she felt doubly naked and exposed. Rei was right, Minako was right, but she could not accept that Serenity and she were wrong either. Perhaps it was best to not worry about it for a time since they would have many years to come to an understanding. Though not a stranger to the Moon Kingdom, there was still so much foreign to her way of thinking and doing. Makoto thought of those earth warriors who liked to settle disputes with violence. She wondered wryly if she wouldn’t get along better with them than some of the more high-minded rulers of the Solar System.
With an expression between repentance and stubbornness, Makoto quietly made her way back over. She lowered herself into the water and pulled her kneels in as she made eye contact with Minako and Rei,
“Sorry…”
It was all she trusted herself to say. It was sincere, though difficult, since she felt apologizing would lower her esteem in the eyes of her companions and Serenity, whom she had reacted to defend.
Now pacified, she glanced at Serenity, wondering what this whole introduction ceremony would involve.
Tag: Serenity, Minako, Rei, Ami.
|
|
|
Post by Usagi_Tsukino_Kagetsu on Nov 29, 2014 18:59:11 GMT -5
[OOC—I'm moving everyone to close out this evening. So if there are questions you have regarding the ceremony, etc. that you don't want to cover in a wrap up/recap post, just hold those to when all characters regroup in the morning. Shout if you've got questions!]
“Makoto-chan” Serenity called, outstretching her left hand in one jerked motion. She took a few quick steps forward, her back hunched and eyes humbled by her sweet words. There was guilt buried within her sapphire gaze.
“Please don’t go. I’m sorry to have created this conflict, and on your first day here…” She winced, bringing her arms around her upper body tenderly. As she tightened her hold, her mind drifted again. His arms wrapped about her so tightly, his head pressed against hers.
“I don’t want to be a statue.” She frowned. Her next words were feverous, genuine, and breathy: “I… I’ve honestly never met someone like the man I met on Earth.” She blushed, tapping her fingertips against her chest as if the action could stop the booming vibrations of her heart.
“But with him, I felt so…strong, alive, confident. I felt all these pieces of myself that had been missing lately come together.” She admitted.
“I know I only met him for a little while, but he showed me so much kindness and strength. If he’s any representation of the Earth Kingdom, it’s nothing but light. It’s full of bright hopes and dreams. It was all quite enchanting.” Her gaze softened, moving away from Makoto to the others.
“He protected me today. He leant me his strength so I could protect us…” she stammered, trying to do him justice by the words she selected. Her voice nearly broke with emotion as she continued: “He was defenseless, with his armor and sword back on the shore. He would have sacrificed his body and life for me!”
“And, I know you all would do the same… He reminded me of each of you. True friends, kindred spirits.” Her gaze softened momentarily. “He understood me so completely.” She shook her head at the realization, feeling a sadness swelling in her heart. Her lips parted, taking in a deep breath.
“I so desperately wanted to protect him… And I want to see him again.” Her eyes pleaded with desperation as they scanned across the group, landing on Minako. “I can’t stop you from watching over me, chasing me even.” She turned away from the group, letting out a defeated sigh.
‘But that doesn’t mean I won’t try to run. Try to escape for a moment. Not only to see the beautiful trees, feel the breeze on my face, but to see him again.’ She thought.
She didn’t want to make things worse. She didn’t want to be further chastised for actions, but in this place of transparency, she had to let them know how she felt. Of course, there were things she omitted. She knew his name. She knew he was the Crown Prince of Earth.
Not knowing their actions left her silent. They seemed to waver in this moment as to whether she’d get support in her trips to Earth. If they knew it was Endymion, they’d surely stop all communications immediately. And if her mother knew, well, she didn’t want to consider that scenario. She squinted her eyes, crinkles formed over the bridge of her nose as she awaited more back and forth. Rei’s next words were surprising.
“Oh, she wasn’t going to leave Rei.” Ami said, quietly soaking up all the information Serenity provided. She was driven by her heart and not her head. To Ami, it was a dangerous, but completely endearing quality of the Princess. “She was going to stay back and bathe herself, while we went about our evening.” She commented flatly, shaking her head. It went without saying that Serenity to do such a thing would have been looked down upon from a cultural perspective.
“I think Rei is right. We need to sit with all the information you’ve provided us and make a sound decision. It’s not overnight. It is precious to you and you are precious to us, so give us the time we need to be confident in whatever next steps we take.” Ami added, beginning to wash Serenity’s hair as she motioned for the others to join.
“I don’t think any of us want you to be a statue. Makoto is completely right in her words. We’ll discuss that front as well. But, in the meantime, Luna did say you were frustrated with your council of advisors and their teachings.” She rose a brow, letting her fingertips slide deeper within Serenity’s golden locks to massage her scalp.
“I’ll start attending those classes with you, tomorrow if you’d like.” She smiled. “It will help us keep an eye on you, and I’ll get the opportunity to learn more myself. We can discuss things afterward and maybe strike a compromise.” She added.
Serenity’s eyes closed, head lifted, and a content breath escaped. When they opened, her eyes had a gentle smile that matched what spread across her pale pink lips. “That would mean a lot to me Ami-chan.” She nodded, placing a hand on the woman’s arm with thanks.
Minako nodded, swiftly taking Serenity’s free hand as she began to lather and then rub the sponge carefully up Serenity’s arm, over the tops of her shoulder and up the the left side of her neck. “Maybe we’re all on edge.” Minako confessed. “Yes, tell us about tomorrow.” She said some excitement and level-headedness returned to her tone.
“Tomorrow will be a celebration of each of you — your unique strengths, your personalities. I want the Moon Kingdom to know who you are and how each of you will nurture and progress the Kingdom.” Serenity grinned, knowing she was being vague. “I don’t want some stuffy introductions with endless speeches, curtsies, and bowing. Mother said I could control this ceremony. So what it is, is really up to each of you. I hope it’s become painfully clear that you being here and being my guardians will not be me asking you to assimilate to my culture. Instead, this should be a celebration of how each of you will shape and forever change and improve the culture as we know it today.” She said with a playful expression.
“I’ve worked with Master Breccan who has arranged music fitting each of your home planets. What I’d love is to have each of you display your talents accompanied with that music. Rei with fire. Makoto with thunder and lightening. Ami with water, mist, and ice. And Minako-chan with light and love. Each of you alone and then we will come together in the end.
She ducked underneath the water quickly as Ami finished washing her hair. Her fingertips moved from her cheeks to her temples and swept into her wet hair, pushing it all back behind her shoulders. She shook her head slightly, a few drops of water continued to slide of her body.
“We’ll leave everyone in awe as we become one and illuminate the crowd with the remnants of each performance. As it is your official ceremony, you’ll be able to use your powers without having to henshin.”
She placed a hand on Minako’s cheek as she saw the concern in her fellow Princess’s eyes. Swinging her body gently in the water, she moved closer to the woman, placing her forehead against Minako’s. “Don’t be upset. I know you don’t have lots of time to prepare, but I want it to be honest and true. This is your essence, your skill. This is natural and flows from your heart.” She said affectionately. “You should need little to no practice to just be yourselves in that moment and know that I’m supporting you every step of the way.” She added, before turning to the other girls.
“You’ll have no limits. No escorts about the Palace. You’ll be free to go and do as you please. To perform in your duties as you see fit.” She began. “And that’s why I’ll teach you to fly, like a select few on the Moon can. I’ve told you many times, on this planet, you are as tethered to the ground as much as your mind lets you to be. Tomorrow, I’ll teach you how to soar. We’ll soar together. I am so excited.” She smiled brightly. Her eyes widened and head turned as she listened to chimes in the background.
“But, it’s extremely late already! We really should regroup in the morning. Then, I can go over everything in detail. That way, each of you will have plenty of time to feel confident in what you’re doing.” She added, nudging the girls to get moving as she tugged Ami out of the water, before slipping her robe about her body. She brought her hands about her long hair, rapidly twisting it to squeeze out excess water.
“Good night.” She said softly, bowing her head in respect to the girls as they parted ways to their living quarters. As she closed the main doors to her chambers, she leaned back against them, letting out a quick, excited breath. Her shoulder blades pressed against the cool surface of the door. She gathered her damp hair into a low pony tail and wrapped it together with the ribbon from earlier near the right side of her neck.
“What a day.” She said softly, a light chuckle coming from within as she thought of her adventure. Thinking of Earth. Thinking of Endymion. Thinking of his words. She needed rest, but part of her yearned to spend the next few hours admiring that beautiful blue planet. Something about it always had pulled her in, and now, she could almost picture his sapphire gaze and relentless will within its glow.
But as she moved deeper into her chambers, she was met with a familiar gaze. “Mother...” She said in a startled voice before gathering herself and bowing her head in respect to the Queen. “...No one said you had been looking for me. I was at the laconia with the Inner Princesses…I…what brings you to my chambers so late?” She questioned, suddenly feeling exposed. Her shoulders rose and fell awkwardly with the satin fabric sticking and then pulling away from her still wet body. She wanted to change to her nightgown, but she felt frozen in place, scared and somewhat excited at what her mother would say next.
[Tag Rei, Makoto, Queen Serenity, Minako, Ami, Luna]
|
|
|
Post by Prince_Endymion on Nov 30, 2014 13:14:43 GMT -5
Queen Serenity reclined in an elegant armchair, her legs crossed properly at the ankle and tucked delicately beneath the chair. In her hands she gently held a small Moon text, one that told of the laws and bylaws of her Kingdom, set forth by her ancestors. The cloaked navy figure suddenly swept into the room, the force of wind she carried causing pages of the book to flutter. Picking her gaze up to watch as the Guardian fell into a respectful kneel, the Queen smiled, laying the book on the table beside her.
Hands folded neatly in her lap as she spoke, her voice soft yet guarded, “Well, it would appear I did not overestimate your abilities, Princess Uranus. I both appreciate the return of my daughter to her home and the swiftness of which you accomplished it.” Her passive tone bore all the eloquence and propriety one would expect from a monarch, yet all the love and tenderness of a mother and fair ruler. Often she rode the lines of her many roles so closely that the lines blurred together, creating a seamless image to her people and her family. “Please, enlighten me. Where was our Moon Princess?” Gesturing to the woman before her to regale her with details.
Princess Haruka’s stormy green eyes rose, meeting the Queen’s gaze. “It is always my greatest honor and privilege to serve as a Guardian of the Moon Princess.” Her breath caught in her throat at the Queen’s question, suddenly feeling her loyalty tear at the seams. Although she cared deeply for the Moon Princess, it was to Queen Serenity whom they all ultimately served. Nodding, she cleared her throat before beginning to recant the events of the past few hours.
“Through examination of Princess Serenity’s room, I discerned that she had a particular interested in Earth. However, I am unsure how she was able to sneak away to the Earth without detection. Regardless, I followed her to Earth. There was some type of an event occurring where it appears she was able to hide amongst the crowd. I tracked her to an Earth lake where she was with a civilian. Apparently some Earth creature had attempted to attack them, and I witnessed Princess Serenity harnessing her powers to heal the creature and protect herself. Afterwords, she was exhausted and fainted. I was able to take her home without any trouble.” Recalling the way the man had demanded that she release Serenity, Haruka frowned slightly, “Actually, the people seemed quite perturbed as I took her away. They demanded I release her.”
A weight seemed to lift from her, as she passed the burden of knowledge from her own shoulders to her Queen. But something inside her chest twisted with remorse, although she had betrayed the Sweet Moon Princess, by taking away her secrets. Yet, as she cast her gaze to the Queen, she was reminded of whom she ultimately served.
With a sweeping sense of grace, Queen Serenity raised herself from the armchair and strode towards the Wind Guardian. With a delicate flick of her wrist, she motioned for the kneeling woman to rise to her feet; a command which the sandy blonde quickly obliged. The composed nature of the Queen never faltered, her deep azure gaze meeting Haruka’s. “Thank you for your discretion and honesty in the handling of my daughter.” Pausing to sigh deeply, she smiled a bit more warmly, taking Haruka’s hand between hers, “and Thank you for protecting her. She is my beloved.”
At her Queen’s request, Haruka scrambled to her feet falling into an ‘at attention’ stance. Her gaze traced the monarch’s movements, carefully watching the ways in which she moved, so calmly, so collected. As the Queen took her hand, she was instantly unsure of how to respond, confused by the warmth she exuded regarding Princess Serenity. A heated blush started at her neck, creeping up her cheeks at the honesty of the motion. Awkwardly clearing her throat, she coughed and then nodded quickly. “…It is my duty. I would always give my all to protect the Princess.”
Queen Serenity released her hand with a gentle squeeze. “Your sense of honor is appreciated, Princess Uranus. I am certain we will meet again soon. Please attend the Inner Senshi ceremonial ball tomorrow, I’ve invited all the Outer Senshi. We so rarely get to celebrate with you. Good Night, Princess Uranus.” With that, the wind guardian slipped out of her chambers with a formal bow, leaving her alone for the moment.
Sighing again, the smile quickly faded from her face, hands wringing together tightly at her waist, fingertips fiddling nervously against the others, calculating how exactly to handle her daughter’s rather brash actions. While she appreciated the spunk that Serenity carried, she also recognized its grave danger. Danger to herself and to the kingdom to which they were both bound. Pulling the white material of her skirt into her fingertips, she hastily moved from her chamber into the hallway making her way towards Serenity’s bed chamber. Upon reaching it, she noted the silence behind the door, realizing that she was not there.
Entering the room, she saw a gray silk dress soiled with dirt and water cast aside, clearly in Serenity’s haste. Stooping to examine the dress, she saw the blades of grass there as well, wondering what exactly it was about the foreign land of Earth that captivated her daughter so. Picking the dress up to examine it further, she held it close, as though it were a token of the way Serenity was stealing herself away from her duties. The natural light from the outside had faded, forcing the Queen to light a lamp to allow her to be able to see.
The sound of activity in the hallway brought her attention towards the doorway, to which Serenity shuffled rapidly into the bed chamber, sighing in reprieve to herself. The gray dress remained folded over her arm, as her gaze fell upon the freshly bathed form of her daughter. She almost felt a pang of guilt for stealing away this moment of rest. Yet the concern for her daughter’s rash actions took precedence. The look of surprise in her daughter’s bright sapphire gaze was not lost on the Queen as she moved towards the stammering Princess.
“Good Evening dearest Serenity, there is no need to explain your absence.” Smiling warmly, her hand moving in a grand sweeping gesture as she spoke, “I’m pleased that you and the Princess’ were able to relax together tonight. The Laconia is ideal for such endeavors, is it not?”
The queen chose to partially ignore the concern in Serenity’s voice. Was it not obvious? Regarding the young blonde woman once again, “Must I notify the guard when I wish to see my own daughter?” A hint of mirth twinkled in the Queen’s azure eyes, “Why, you seemed so ill earlier, I merely wished to ensure that you were well.” With her hand she motioned for Serenity to come nearer, instead of cleaving the escape of the door at her back. Looking down to the soiled gown in her arms, she spoke casually “We shall have to get this cleaned, hm?” Laying it gently over the back of a chair, she approached Serenity, pulling at the ribbon in her daughter’s hair, allowing it to fall in a sheet.
“My darling Serenity... I know sometimes our station requires so much of us…” Her voice was gentle, almost wistful, as she attempted to appeal to the sense of duty that lay somewhere within in her daughter’s heart. Although the Princess evidently adored her kingdom, she also had so many dreams and ideas that she wished to make a reality. Queen Serenity was unsure how to encourage her to accept the path that she had already laid down for her daughter, rather than to reimagine the entire universe. Nimble fingertips began to brush through the thick blonde locks, as she began to delicately pick and pull at the hair, folding Serenity’s hair into an elegant French braid.
“The ability to escape such pressures must be a rather welcomed reprieve. However, is such action wise?” Continuing to the braid the full length of Serenity’s hair, she breathed her questions at her daughter’s neck. “Sometimes our life isn’t fair, for it demands every piece of us. Every idea, every desire, every intent we’ve ever possessed. Such things must be traded in… all for the sake of obligation.” Her slender, bare shoulders rose and set with a heavy sigh as the braid neared completion; she tied the ribbon at the base of the braid, then gripped the young women’s shoulders.
The volume of her voice dropped, whispering as though the words were treasonous, “My daughter… I know obligation is… almost like a curse to you. Almost too heavy a burden for your sweet nature...” Releasing her shoulders, she moved to face Serenity again, the knowing look in her eyes perhaps revealing what she knew of her adventures. Or perhaps not.
[Tag: Princess Serenity]
|
|
|
Post by Usagi_Tsukino_Kagetsu on Nov 30, 2014 17:38:04 GMT -5
As her mother began to speak of the Inner Princesses, Serenity dropped her guard. Her shoulders slid down into a comfortable position. “It was beautiful tonight, mother.” She smiled, moving toward the other woman. The stark white strands of her mother’s hair reminded her of the fierce lights of the stars all about them. “Perhaps I’m making it up, but I don’t recall seeing so many stars shining so brightly above the Laconia as I did tonight, truly it’s the moon’s heaven.” She said contently, her voice soft and calm.
“And I’m so glad I was able to spend time with the girls. I could see how much they’ve grown in their skills this morning…” Her voice trailed off, thinking of their earlier conversation a pained look flickered in her eyes before she picked her energies back up. She tried to her best to sound light and positive—a tone her mother always carried, a tone that befitted a monarch. “They are quite excited for the ceremony tomorrow—all the beautiful gowns, old friends, new acquaintances to be had.” She blushed, her gaze trailed away from her mother’s gentle stare.
His face was so close, hovering nearer to hers. His animated smile and light-hearted laughter flooded her ears. ‘It’s true, though. I would sneak away to see you again in a heartbeat…’ It’s as if she were transported back to that moment. Her heart began to pound, fingertips trailed to the side of her cheek without a thought, brushing back a few stray hands of hair.
“Hm?” She said sheepishly, opening her eyes as they fell upon the dress her mother had hanging over her arm. She knew. She knew it all. Serenity froze in place, her posture straightened as she sucked in a careful breath. “Well…yes… it…” Her gaze cautiously pulled back to her through the mirror in front of her. Serenity sat politely in the chair, closing her eyes as she felt her mother’s fingertips begin to brush gently through the strands.
Her head shifted minutely to the left and right, a calm washing over her body. She could think of all the times her mother and she sat at the foot of her bed and her mother would braid her hair and tell her stories. Those moments had grown few and far between over time.
Serenity’s eyes widened at her mother’s words, shivering as they pierced her senses in heavy, warm breaths that tantalized her neck. Her left hand crossed over her chest and to her right shoulder, gently clasping her mother’s hand.
“You’re wrong.” She said carefully. She spoke to the woman’s reflection in her mirror for a time. “My duty is no burden. It’s right, I never asked to be a Princess, but I fully accept my position and am honored by the duty to serve so many special people.” She urged.
“But what I cannot be is a statue. I refuse to be passive and idle.” She frowned, her hand slipping away from her mother as it rested on the top of the chair, her upper body twisted to the right so she could look her mother in the eye. “You have provided this Kingdom with stability and strength. The people believe in you. But I…” She let turned her hands over, palms facing upward. “There’s no stability here, no strength… how can people ever believe in me?” She questioned.
“Today, I saw commoners and nobles alike fight for their Kingdom. I met a man so full of kindness and selflessness, yet he was also a warrior. He was balanced. I can be balanced, too. I know you've seen the world many times over and you've experienced so many things. But what if things have changed. What if our isolation from the greater universe has crippled our ability to grow and mature, to really help our allies as equals?” She said with conviction and a pointed strength that often did not come from Serenity, as she was often so unsure of herself.
“I’m not asking to go into battle. I’m asking that you allow me to embrace the gifts that were given to me. That way, if needed, I can protect my friends, my people, and you.” She pleaded, slipping her hands into her mother’s, squeezing them tightly. Her voice filled with emotion.
“Please let me find my courage and strength. Let me train with the senshi. Just them. Isn’t that safe?” She questioned. “While we have peace here, we are only part of a larger universe, and I want to be able to support it all. You can’t expect me to be ready. And you can’t expect our Kingdom to have faith in the heiress to such a power as the Imperium Crystal if I can’t even control what I have naturally.” She urged.
“It’s obvious that you knew I went to Earth, and perhaps you were the one who brought me back. I just wanted to experience it. Attend the spar match, see the trees, feel the grass and wind…” She pursed her lips, turning her head to the side, tearing her gaze away. “I’m sorry to have disobeyed your trust. But mother… in those simple hours, I learned so much about the greater universe, myself, and the ruler I want to become…Please help me be that.” She said, gaze slowly moving back, her gaze intensely awaited her mother’s next words.
[Tag Queen Serenity]
|
|
|
Post by Prince_Endymion on Dec 2, 2014 20:46:27 GMT -5
Queen Serenity remained composed, even as her daughter’s gaze betrayed her; emotions and nervousness aglow in those bright blue eyes at her knowledge of her escapades. Did she not yet understand? That she was young once as well, bold and full of innovative ideas. The weight of her crown had long ago stifled those desires, dreams long cast aside for the sake of her Kingdom. Returning Serenity’s firm hold, she did what she did best; listened intently to the young woman’s words.
Looking down into Serenity’s impassioned gaze, the plea tore at her heartstrings, reminding her of days when she too felt the same pressures. A time when her best intentions did nothing but make a mess of things. “My sweet Serenity… The last thing I desire for you is to be a statue. I also realize you will never be the same ruler as I am. Nor would I expect it.” A soft smile touched her lips as she reached out and brushed a stray hair from Serenity’s forehead.
“…It has been a very long time since I was young and filled with bold ideas.” Releasing her daughter’s hand she sighed and cast an unexpectedly wistful glance aside. “I wasn’t so different from you, my darling.” The smile on her lips evolved into a smirk, “For I too, was once Princess Serenity…a dreamer and a schemer…” She uttered with a touch of humor in her words. Her chest rose set as she inhaled deeply recalling a similar phase in her own life, where she’d been distressed at the idea of being Queen. Until the day had come where she was able to accept the teachings, the lessons, the destiny before her. Surely, Serenity would also find that piece of herself deep inside. The Queen raised her silver eyebrows as she recounted her tale of the day spent upon the planet Earth. One thing stuck out more than the others. “…You met a man on Earth?” She muttered, her tone lacking the composed air that it nearly always carried. A rush of anxiety plagued her, threatening to cause a break in her self-control. This was an entirely different type of issue. Visiting the distant planet to observe their fauna was one; meeting with people as the laws strictly forbade was far more disturbing issue. The way Serenity described the man, the blush awash on the young woman’s cheeks was rather worrisome.
The Queen folded her arms, to cover the fact that this disturbed her greatly. “Hmmm, well that does complicate matters, does it not? You recall from your lessons that such interactions are strictly forbidden, correct?” Musing over the most effective way to broach this conversation without ostracizing her daughter eternally.
Tapping thoughtfully at her chin, forcing her façade to remain unchanged, to remain calm in this unique conversation. “Please realize that you may not return to Earth, Serenity. The consequences could be… quite disastrous, really.“ The way her words went up ever so slightly at the end subtly revealed the frustration brimming beneath the Queen’s composed exterior. It wasn’t unheard of, Serenity being adventurous, a bit reckless, even. But this? This was a new level of desperation. Had she truly pushed her daughter to the point of fleeing the Moon? Had she not just brought her Senshi here to surround her with support? Or did her best intentions only further frustrate the Moon Princess?
Queen Serenity realized that she was at a critical moment in her relationship with Serenity; that her next words would either keep them connected or send her daughter even further into the depths of rebellion. Considering the options carefully, she unfolded her arms, her fingertips tapped against one another, as though keeping time to a song unheard. The thought of allowing her daughter to train in her powers before taking ownership of the Crystal was distressing to the say the least. Perhaps a deal could be struck, perhaps the young woman would surrender some of her pride to begin to walk her path as a future monarch.
“My Dearest Serenity.” Meeting her daughter’s vibrant gaze with severity reflecting in her own sapphire eyes, she spoke, her tone attempting to maintain poised. “The Royal Family of the Moon does not traditionally begin to train in one’s powers until the future monarch is nearing their time to ascend to the throne and take control of the Maboroshi No Ginzuishou.” She paced herself, allowed herself to fully think through the repercussions of what she was about to consent to. Yet, there didn’t appear to be a choice worth taking. Putting distance between Serenity and herself was not an acceptable option.
“I will allow you to engage in minimal training exercises; enough to begin to control your emotions and hence be able to more readily harness your powers.” Her gaze grew in intensity, not deviating as she drew nearer, “In no way will you train for battle. That is not part of our station, Serenity and I will not allow it to become so.” Inhaling deeply, her chest rising and falling gracefully, as she allowed some small bit of peace to wash over her. “This deal shall only stand should you agree to refrain from returning to Earth.” Truly, it was non-negotiable. The Moon Princess could not be gallivanting about the Earth Kingdom, the stars only knew what type of problems could arise in such circumstances.
Queen Serenity reached out to Serenity’s face, taking it lightly into her hands as she leaned forward to bestow a kiss upon the young woman’s brow. “The spirit and light within you is so beautiful to behold, my beloved daughter. Understand that the rules I set forth are to protect you and help you. Those are my greatest motivations.” Moving towards the door, she pulled it open, smiling warmly back over her shoulder. “Good night Serenity.” Pulling the door closed behind her, the Moon Queen returned to her own bedchambers, feeling halfway unsure the deal she had just struck with her daughter. Had there possibly been an option she missed? It was a rare moment that she felt insecure in a choice she had made.
[Tag: Princess Serenity]
|
|
|
Post by Princess Jupiter on Dec 3, 2014 10:23:16 GMT -5
What a day.
That was the recurring thought Makoto had as they wrapped up their bathing session and took their leave of each other. Makoto’s emotions had been on such a rollercoaster over the course of the day that the silence was oddly uncomfortable. There was too much to process. So, it was unsurprising that at length she found herself in the small gym that the Moon architects had attached to the Senshi’s quarters. Makoto allowed her thoughts and feelings to flow as she took it all out on that poor punching bag.
The mysterious blue spy.
The ineptitude of not being able to save or support Serenity through her Earth adventure.
The ball, and now this “talent show” that Serenity wanted them to put on. This was a surprise for Mako and to her ears it was just another thing for her to be criticized about. More nervousness. More frustration. More questions of who she wanted to be on the Moon as part of Serenity’s honor guard.
She had wanted so badly to destroy her reputation for violence, but nothing of the day had worked to do so. She was still the tomboy princess who got into fights with anyone who looked at her the wrong way. Fighting was her “natural” talent, but the thought of presenting that to the Moon Kingdom as her introduction was abhorrent. She nearly pleaded with herself to make a better impression. Show them that she was a Princess. An ordinary girl. She would only get one first impression…she had to make it count.
Her thoughts turned again to Serenity. The look on her face and the tone of her voice as she described Earth to them. The instant change when Minako reminded her that it was an impossible dream. It broke Mako’s heart to see Serenity retreat from them as if they had thrown something at her. She didn’t want that for their relationship. She wanted to do everything in her power to protect Serenity’s happiness. To hell with the rules and expectations that they were all burdened with. Makoto had struggled with expectation her entire life and never came out on the side people wanted. It simply wasn’t in her to live by other people’s rules, try as she might. Usually she felt this was a weakness, but tonight she wondered if she might be able to turn it into a strength.
As she thought that, she landed a final solid punch on the bag dangling before her and she smiled to herself, shaking her head. She felt so complicated, so hard to pin down. But she was heir to the Storm—aha! She had her plan for this personal introduction! She would show them the Dance of the Storm…what better introduction could there be for someone who was as turbulent on the inside as she was on the outside?
She nodded happily to herself and went to get ready for bed. Tomorrow would be busy. But perhaps now, she was looking forward to it.
|
|
|
Post by hinorei on Dec 4, 2014 11:21:48 GMT -5
Deep purple eyes studied her own reflection in the mirror as Rei slowly ran her brush through her thick black hair. Today had been a very busy day and tomorrow was their introduction ceremony. Everything seemed to be happening so fast. A soft knock on her door drew the Princess from her thoughts. She laid her brush on her vanity and rose from the cushioned seat. Her nightgown was soft red satin with lace along the neckline and spaghetti straps, comfortable for sleeping but inappropriate for answering the door at night, so she grabbed her black robe and slipped it on before slowly opening the door. On the other side of the door stood one of young serving women Rei had seen around the palace. She curtsied deeply, then presented a wrapped box with a note attached to the top.
"Forgive the late intrusion, Princess Rei, but this just arrived for you from your home planet."
"Thank you," Rei said, taking the package from the woman, who bowed and took her leave.
A look of curiosity crossed Rei's face as she closed the door and returned to her seat at her vanity. She removed the note which bore the symbol of Mars on it's envelope and opened it.
Dearest Rei,
You are the pride of Mars. Good luck tomorrow.
Love, Mom and Dad
A warm smile spread across Rei's ruby lips. It wasn't often she received something from her parents, she barely saw them even when she was on Mars, but it was still a nice gesture. Carefully, her slender fingers opened the package and a soft gasp escaped her lips. The box was lined with black velvet and resting inside was a set of dangling ruby earrings and a black velvety chocker with five rubies dangling from it. The ruby in the center of the choker was larger than the other four, but all of them sparkled in the dim light of her bedroom. Gently she ran her fingers over the shimmering gemstones, her smile nearly taking in her ears. Her mother had a set similar to this and she had always admired it. This set, she could tell, had been made just for her. She would have to write a letter of thanks to her parents in the morning.
Closing the lid to the box, Rei stood from her seat and slid her robe off of her shoulders, then climbed into her bed for. She was asleep before her head even hit the pillow.
|
|