Sailor Moon Fan Fiction ❯ Uncontrolled ❯ Chapter 12 ( Chapter 12 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: SilentStar-009 
Anime/Manga: Sailor Moon Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Drama | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 07.20.2006 | Pages: 7 | Words: 12.1K | Visits: 1.1K | Status: Completed
Anime/Manga: Sailor Moon Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Drama | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 07.20.2006 | Pages: 7 | Words: 12.1K | Visits: 1.1K | Status: Completed
Chapter 12
Mina rolled to her side and looked blankly at the bare wall of the room. Faintly, she could hear the gently clicking of the clock and Serena's soft snores. Heaving a defeated sigh, she lifted herself out of her warm blankets and tip toed out of the room.
On the cold floors of the beach house she watched as shadows danced in the moonlight shining through the wide windows. Someone snored loudly in the guys' room.
“A snore like that can make the Earth shudder.” She told herself quietly with a chuckle.
“Th at's what I was thinking.” Gasping, she twirled around to confront the dark voice. When she saw him sitting on the couch, she let out a shaky breath of relief, but it faded to anger.
“Damn you Kunzite.” Do you want me to stab you again? She threatened. He lifted an interested brow.
“So you remember.” He said with a small smile. She resisted the urge to roll her eyes and went to a nearby chair to sit down.
“Of course I remember. You almost cried.” She mocked him. Dark humor danced in his slivery-blue eyes.
“I did not.” He shot back and slouched on the couch. “You had bad aim. My leg is far from my heart.”
Mina narrowed her eyes. “I wasn't aiming for your heart. You moved before I could impale my real target.” She murmured, looking thoughtfully at his lower torso. It took a second before Kunzite realized what she had been talking about and he snorted.
“Be en taking sword lessons from Raye?” He asked. She smiled smugly.
“She was always good at finding new places to hurt her foe.” Mina said with a cocky smile. “Besides, you were in my room in the middle of the night. What was I to think? By the way, you never did tell me why you were there in the first place.” She eyed him warily. “Tell me.”
Kunzite sighed. “Why? It was a long time ago and I think you know why.”
Mina searched her memories. When it came to her she smiled. “You wanted to finish what we had started in the field.”
~*FLASHBACK*~
; It was a pass time for her. Archery in the sun-kissed fields of the Moon, bathed in the golden light with colorful butterflies dancing round about her. She was pulling back the ridged string when another arrow came sailing at her target out of nowhere. She jerked her head around and saw Lord Kunzite standing on a shallow hill with his bow still poised. The wind ruffled his shoulder length hair.
No matter how delicious he looked, he was still a jerk. She narrowed her eyes at him and put an angry hand on her hip. “Damn man.” She muttered and watched him saunter to her like he was the most important man in the kingdom.
“Bu ll's eye.” He said and held gave her a small smile. Mina glared at him.
“What the hell do you think you're doing?” She hotly shot at him. “I was practicing. I don't need your company.” She growled and went to her target to pull out his arrow.
“You don't like a little competition?” He asked her and plucked his arrow out of her hands.
“Of course I do.” She said breezily, secretly glad that he wanted to spend some time with her. Ever since they had their touch and tell duel a week ago, she wanted to spend more time with him. He was so cold and mysterious and she couldn't help but be a little curious about him and everything about him. And this was the perfect way to do that. She smiled secretly to herself, Lord Kunzite was awfully stuffy. She wondered if she could take him out of it and bring out his more daring nature.
~*END FLASHBACK*~
“ ;I was quite shocked about the little proposition you had.”
Mina smiled and flipped her hair back. “Yes.” She laughed. “But I didn't hear you protesting. That was quite shocking.”
~*FLASHBACK*~
&n bsp; “Want to make it interesting?” She asked, looking expectantly at him.
“It depends on what you would call interesting.” He told her with folded arms.
“Well, if you want to be boring.” She began.
“I'm not boring.” He protested. Mina rocked on her heels.
“Alri ght.” She chirped and looked around her. Her stomach was fluttering with anticipation. “Every time we miss the bull's eye mark, we have to discard a piece of our clothing.” She challenged. She swore his mouth fell open.
“What? What kind of arrangement is that? Someone could see us!” He answered, a bit flabbergasted.
220;Like I said Lord Kunzite, if you want to be boring then,” She was cut off again.
“I told you I was not boring.” He paused and looked thoughtfully around. “But if we're going to do this, then we have to go to a more secluded place.”
Mina giggled. “Want me all to yourself do you?” Kunzite ignored that remark.
“So the Princess won't see you doing something scandalous.” He retorted. That made Mina laugh harder.
“She won't see anything on you that she hasn't seen on your Prince.” She said between breaths. Kunzite smirked along with her. “Alright. I know a place to go.” She motioned him to follow her. They made their way into the forest taking odd turns and going through overgrown paths until they were in a little clearing. Kunzite looked around, nodding his approval. Mina lifted her finger and pointed it at a large trunk. Golden light shot out of her tip and traced a bull's eye on it.
She locked eyes with him and slowly withdrew an arrow from her quiver and armed her bow. Pivoting on her heel, she pulled back the taunt string to her chin and narrowed her eyes. The arrow shot at the mark like lightning and pierced into the center. It was an easy shot. Kunzite took his turn, standing close to her. His presence was rather overwhelming. It was like she could feel the hardness of his muscles and the command he possessed. Mina had to take a few inconspicuous deep breaths to stop her heart from hammering so hard in her chest.
His arrow whistled through the gentle breeze and pierced the trunk, next to her own arrow. On and on they sparred until Mina missed and hit an outside ring.
“Damn. ” She hissed silently. Kunzite gave her a smile and pointed to her shoes. She kicked one off. And hour or two went by and both of them were striped to their underclothes. Shadows fell over the mark, making it harder to see it. Mina squinted her eyes, trying not to shiver as a cold breeze whipped around her. She was just about to let her arrow go when a loud crashing sound boomed and then the rain came. Big fat drops fell on them.
“We better get inside!” Kunzite hollered over the crashing lightning. Mina blinked the rain out of her eyes and gathered her clothes. She could barely see beyond the grey mist of the storm and tripped over a root. Kunzite caught her around the waist and hauled her back up. She was glad the storm was loud because he would have heard her little gasp. She didn't know what was wrong with her. He was just like the other men in her life wasn't he? Why was she so damn attracted to him? So much that just a simple thing like a touch, a glance even made her get hot for him.
They burst through the thick forest and skidded to a halt when they saw the steep hill they were on. But their momentum was lost and their feet slipped in the soft mud. With a strangled cry, they fell head first down the hill. The world rolled all around her. A sharp rock bit onto her arm. Her hands shot out blindly, trying to stop. They grasped Kunzite's arm and with all her might, she pulled him close to her. With both of them rolling, their paced slowed and when she thought it couldn't get any worse, they landed in a cold puddle of water that pooled at the bottom of the hill.
“Damn it!” Mina shrieked and lifted herself up on her hands. Water dripped down her face and her thick hair was matted to her back and forehead. Kunzite grabbed her hand and pulled her up.
“We need to stay somewhere until the storm ends!” He yelled and jerked her with him. Together they stumbled to a patch of rocks that had a little opening toward the bottom. It was just big enough for them to crawl into. She pulled away from him and huddled against the rocks. Cautiously she peered into the darkness. It was such a small space and he was so big, it was like he took up all the room. Their body heat radiated off them and heated up the place, and all they could do was stay seated and listen to the rain slapping on the ground and hitting on the grey boulders.
“I think I won.” He finally said. Mina eyed him in the darkness.
“H ow so?” She shot at him and folded her arms.
“I have more clothes on.” He simply said. Mina fingered her almost translucent undergarment and blushed a little. When the rain had started, it immediately soaked through and molded to her body like a second skin. He must have seen it. Goosebumps raced across her arms.
“Right .” She said in a breathless voice with a hint of quiver. Oh god, he didn't hear that did he? She cleared her throat. “But I think I would have won if this storm hadn't come.”
He chuckled and she felt the vibrations hit her. Her heart sped up and she licked her lips. Her hands were opening and closing, itching to just touch him. This was just a passing feeling. She hoped.
“What do I win?” He asked. Mina blinked and then leaned forward.
“Sa y that again?” She felt him stretch out until her small body was caged between his long legs. He leaned in as well until she felt his breath on her forehead. She jerked her head back, trying to put a little space between them, but he captured her head in his hands and held her in place. Her heart jumped to her throat.
“Wha t do I win?” He asked again in a silky voice that made desire pool in her stomach.
“Wh at do you want?” She whispered to him. A small sliver of light filtered through the boulders and lit his sliver eyes. He leaned closer and Mina closed her eyes just as he pressed his lips against hers. The touch was electrifying. Her passions flared to life and she gasped at the heat of it. Never in her life was a kiss so intense. He was making her want to toss aside the rule to wait until she was married to make love. She moaned. Who made the rules anyway? Her hands came up and buried into his wet hair, twirling the strands around her fingers. His tongue darted into her mouth...
~*END FLASHBACK*~
Mina snapped abruptly out of her memories, aware that Kunzite was watching her intently. She let out a breath and shook off the wave of desire that assaulted her and smiled.
“Yes . Shocking.” He murmured.
“Y ou know what? I think we would have done something a little too early if Serenity hadn't come.” She said breezily and tucked her feet under her. Kunzite's face turned sour.
“It was partly her fault too. If she hadn't interrupted us then I wouldn't have a scar on my leg.” He said, tapping his old wound. Mina giggled, and put a hand up to her mouth. She had to keep quiet, she didn't want to wake up the others.
“Wel l she was worried about us.”
~*FLASHBACK*~
&n bsp; They were so wrapped up in their kisses that at first, they didn't hear someone clearing their throat. It was only after Serenity said a word that they stopped and looked out to the little entrance of the rocks. The princess was crouched down looking at them with a little blush. Mina felt calloused hands slip from her breast and she flushed.
“We were just ahhh...” She began, licking her swollen lips.
Serenity shook her head. “Think nothing of it Mina. The storm is over. Perhaps you two can come out. Your mother has been asking about you.” She stood up and stepped aside. Mina let out a little laugh and lifted herself out from under Kunzite. He handed her clothes to her and she jerked on her wrinkled overdress. Silently she made her way out of the boulders and stood up. Kunzite followed her out and then stiffened.
“ Prince.” He said rigidly and bowed. Prince Endymion stood by Serenity's side with a blank expression on his face.
“Princ e Endymion, what happened between Lord Kunzite and I-” She began. She didn't want him to get into trouble. Who knew what kind of rules his guards went by or what punishment they could get if they broke the rules.
“You don't need to explain yourself Mina. The Prince understands,” Serenity paused and gave the Prince a look, “Anything can happen when desire takes over. Right?” She asked him. Mina saw that Endymion was a little miffed about being put on the spot. Anyone could read between the lines and get what Serenity was saying. Endymion's mouth thinned and he gave Serenity blazing eyes before he turned back to Kunzite.
“We have to dress for dinner.” He growled and turned around. Kunzite looked a little uneasy, but he gave Mina smile before turning and following his Prince.
Serenity turned back and smiled at her. Mina smiled back. “I guess we have to use the back entrance of the Palace. Wouldn't want anyone seeing you in your rumpled state.” She wiped a smudge of dirt off of Mina's cheek and giggled.
Later, when dinner was over and night fell, Mina was fast asleep and in the middle of a very interesting dream when a loud thump woke her. Immediately, her warrior instincts leaped into play. Stealthily, she slipped out of her bed and moved silently around her bed. Her window was open and sheer amber curtains billowed in the light breeze. She slipped her hand under the feather mat of her bed and grasped the handle of a dagger. The sharp blade flashed in the moonbeams that rested in her room. She peeked around the corner of her bed and saw a large shadow hunched and moving to her bed. Moving quickly, she stood and raised the dagger, but the assailant sensed her, despite her quietness and caught her hand. She let out a gasp, and her leg shot out to trip him. He grunted and landed on a knee. Raye's suggested area to attack popped into her mind and she aimed for it, bit he moved last minute and she stabled him in the leg. He cursed and grabbed her hand.
“Damn you Mina.” He hissed. She stopped struggling and gasped.
“Oh my god Kunzite!” She shrieked and pulled her dagger out of his leg. He groaned and she put a hand to his wound. “You should have told me it was you!” She cried, horrified at what she had just done.
*Ami, come quick!* She fervently telepathed to her friend. When Ami did get the message, she brought the whole gang. Mina groaned. Did she have to bring them all?
~*END FLASHBACK*~
“ ;Good thing Ami was such a good healer.” Mina said with a soft smile. After she had stabbed him she went to see him the week he was in recovery. It was a good thing they had to stay longer because after that, everything went down hill from that. Even looking at him now brought back how much she loved him. She gazed at him and locked eyes. Were things so different now? Could she fall back in love with him easier now?
~ ~ ~ ~
Raye exhaled loudly. He was so damn loud. Some things never change! She thought angrily and whipped the blankets off of her. She stepped over Lita and Ami and slipped out of the room. She ignored the soft murmurings coming from the living room and slipped into the boys' room and spotted him snoring away. How could they even sleep with noise like that!? She reached over and squeezed his nose shut. It was only seconds before he started coughing and gasping for breath. His eyes opened and like all the times in the past, filled with mirth and laughter.
“D amn you Jadeite. Sleep on your stomach!” She hissed and hit him on the shoulder before leaving. But he grabbed her hand and jerked her back on the bed. He trapped her arms to the side of her as he wrapped his own arms around her shoulders.
“ You know I can't sleep on my back without you resting on top of me.” He purred sleepily. Butterflies fluttered in her stomach. In the past, she would always sleep on his back. To this day, that was still the most comfortable position to her. She would bury her face in the crook of his neck and all night, breathe in the unique smell of him.
“Hey, if Serena and I have to stay apart tonight, you have to too.” Darien muttered loudly, and buried his face in his pillow.
“Ser enity banned you from her bed.” Jadeite replied. Darien groaned and gave him the finger, while pointing them out. Jadeite stood, lifting her off her feet.
“What are you doing?” Raye hissed loudly.
“Hey , keep it down!” Zoicite growled and lifted the covers over his head.
“Yeah love, keep it down.” He hummed in her ear. Goosebumps ran across her skin and her heart began to beat rapidly. He opened the door with his foot and exited, just as Kunzite was walking with Mina down the hall.
“What are you two doing?” Mina asked slyly. Raye flushed and wiggled in Jadeite's embrace, but he only tightened his hold on her.
“What are you two doing?” Raye shot back at them. Mina laughed.
“Go ing back to bed.” She said and waved to them, entering the room and closing the door with a soft click. Raye glared at the door. She just left me with HIM? Kunzite stared after her for a moment, a flash of something passing across his face.
“Me too.” He said and shuffled pass them to go into the room. Jadeite said a soft goodnight and then carried her into the front room. He plopped her down on the couch, and she tried to get away, but he dragged her back, this time, sitting first and then having her sit on his lap.
“Let me go. I'm tired.” Raye said, trying to be free of him.
“No, we're going to talk first, love.” He said and blew a piece of her hair out of his face.
“About what?” She asked with a defeated sigh.
~ ~ ~
Jadeite felt her loosen a little and he smiled.
“You remember when we started sleeping together?” He began. Her shoulders tensed, but he ignored it and continued. “You remember how love- hate our relationship was right?” She nodded stiffly.
“Mo re hate that love though.” She said. He nodded.
“It was like than until we finally realized that we couldn't be with anyone else without longing for one another.”
&# 8220;That's what you call jealousy?” She murmured.
~*FLASHBACK*~
&nb sp; “You need to go now.” Raye said and sat up, wrapping the blankets around her nude body and went into the washroom. Jadeite was left on the bed, naked, feeling the air hit his hot body.
“Let me catch my breath first.” He snapped. It was never enough for him. No matter how empty this relationship was, he could never get enough of her.
“How long will it take?” She snapped back and he heard her pour water in a bowl.
“I didn't bitch when you took your dear sweet time getting dressed last night.” He growled and sat up. He grabbed his clothes off of the floor and pulled them on. Raye emerged dressed a red nightgown. Hot desire began to build up again and he narrowed his eyes. He could take her again in an instant.
“It 's almost morning and I have a busy day.” She grabbed his boots and tossed them to him.
“Don't worry Mars. I got what I needed from you.” He snickered. She narrowed her eyes.
“As did I.” She shot back and snuffed out the candles. Jadeite watched her slip back into bed without giving him a second glance.
The next morning he entered the dining room and saw that Princess Serenity and her court were just entering. His eyes immediately focused on Raye. She ignored him of course. That was the arrangements they made when they began their affair.
“Ah Lord Jadeite. You're early.” Lita said brightly and pulled out a chair to sit on.
“Unlike some.” Serenity muttered, looking past him. He turned and saw his Prince enter with the rest of their party. The Prince ignored her remark and sat across from her. As soon as they were all seated, the kitchen doors swung open and a heard of servants entered with their hands full of food.
As they began to eat, he watched Raye beneath his lashes. But the more he watched her, the more he became enraged. He was a pretty laid back guy, always finding the humor in all things, but with Raye, damn, she was the only person who could get him so angry. She acted like she wasn't going through all the turbulent thoughts like he was. Like everything was normal. Like they weren't even sleeping together! As he finished that heated thought, her eyes jerked up, wide with shock.
What was wrong with her? Raye's eyes widened more and she quickly looked around. She was acting strange.
*This is not happening* He heard her. But her lips didn't move. It was his turn to look shocked. He didn't just hear her thoughts did he? Raye's lips parted and she stared at him like her world was going to end.
*This is madness! Stay out of my thoughts!* She shot at him and busied herself with her eggs. *How could this have happened? I never shared telepathy with anyone besides my friends. How could he hear my thoughts? I can't keep secrets from him now. Damn, Jadeite, you better not be listening.* She hissed and took a loud slurp of her juice. *Oops*
Raye looked at Princess Serenity in a sheepish manner. Serenity raised an eyebrow at her. *Sorry.* He heard her apologize.
The new experience was vastly amusing, but disturbing as well. She was probably listening to him think these things right now. Her utensils slowed and she chewed slowly, locking eyes with him.
*I'm going to get to the bottom of this Jadeite.* She told him.
*Who are you going to ask?* He shot back at her. Raye looked to her side at Ami.
*You don't need to worry about that. Until I can block you from my thoughts, keep out of them you hear me?*
*What's the fun in that Mars? Our bond is special. Intimate even.* He purred right back and bit into a piece of warm sausage. Her face flushed at the word intimate and she narrowed her eyes.
*Our agreement was to not mention our nighttime activities during the day. If you insist on doing so, than consider our arrangement finished* She told him icily. He smirked at her.
*I didn't say it out loud Mars. Talk about rigid.* He muttered.
*Don't talk to me anymore.*
*But it's so fun Mars. No one can hear us. Our link is isolated to all.*
*Shut up.*
“Jadeit e!” He broke away from his link.
“What Nephrite?” He asked. Nephrite looked at him oddly.
“That was the third time I said your name. Where did you mind go?” He asked in a little huff.
*To last night when you screamed-*
“ I'm finished.” Raye interrupted his thought and stood up sharply. Serenity glanced at Raye's plate and then back up to Raye.
“But you barely ate anything.” She perceived with a frown.
“I'm not hungry. May I be excused?” She asked, drumming her fingers on the back of her chair. Serenity nodded slowly and Raye left.
*Stay out of my mind!* She yelled at him. The thought was so loud that his head began to hammer. Everyone watched her disappear outside.
“I wonder what's the matter with her.” Mina murmured thoughtfully.
R 20;Maybe she didn't sleep well.” Lita suggested with a shrug. Jadeite had to smile. I bet she slept like the dead when I was finished with her he thought cockily.
*Don't be stupid you jerk.* Her sharp remark cut into what he was thinking and he choked on his food. Zoicite began pounding on his back. He could feel Raye's feline like smile.
*I hope you die on that food.* She said sweetly.
*Bitch.* He sucked in a breath.
“Don 't inhale your food.” Kunzite said dryly. Jadeite coughed one more time.
“Are you alright?” Serenity asked. He nodded and pushed his plate away.
“We were trying to ask you if you wanted to stay here tonight. The Queen is throwing a party to welcome some Royalty. The Mars royalty are looking for a suitor for their daughter and this one could be a possible match.” Nephrite said. A match for Raye? Like anyone could survive being married to her. He heard a hiss and knew Raye was listening to his thoughts intently.
“T hat sounds like fun.” He answered. Yeah, fun to see the poor Prince be mowed down by Raye the spitfire. He couldn't wait to see how she would treat the poor unsuspecting man.
*You'll never know.* The way she replied pulled a curiously new feeling in his chest.
~*END FLASHBACK*~
“ ;I never knew at that time I could ever be jealous. But that night, you proved me wrong love.”
̶ 0;Right, how could anyone like you be jealous?” She snickered. But she remembered that night as well. That feeling was to be shared when the party was in full swing. Her parents thought that they needed to find her a husband. But she wasn't about to bow down to marital bliss as they put it, so easily. If her parents ever found out that she had slept with anyone before getting married, she could lose the throne. But her one affair was locked up tight, thanks to Serenity's mind wipe ability. But the affair she had started with Jadeite was nothing she planned on doing. It just happened.
The sexual tension between them was something she couldn't fight. And she didn't. She thought that if she had him, her hunger would dissipate. How wrong she was. It was hard to pull herself away from him after they had finished. If she could, she would have stayed all day and night and then some, in bed.
~*FLASHBACK*~
&n bsp; Parties were always dull to her. Her hopeful parents had trotted out the Prince and she dismissed him in a second. He wasn't...NO! She stopped herself before finishing her thought. HE could hear it.
She looked around quickly, but he was no where in sight. Maybe his mind was elsewhere. Ami and Zoicite were talking quietly next to the punch table, Mina and Kunzite were dancing, totally engrossed with one another and Lita and Nephrite were arguing over the food and she was stuck here by herself, listening to the boring Prince. Not that he was ugly or anything. Prince Dreadwood had beautiful crystal green eyes with dark curly hair, the color of copper. He was fit too. His royal ensemble molded to his body in just the right places.
“Wou ld you like to go out on the terrace?” He offered. Raye smiled and nodded.
He grasped her elbow gently and led her outside. Cold air rushed to greet them and she shivered. “Cold?” He asked and took off his coat, draping it over her shoulders.
“ The Moon Kingdom is beautiful.” He commented, looking out into the distance.
“Y es. It is.”
“ I don't get it.” He started. Raye frowned.
“Wh at do you mean?”
̶ 0;I don't get how someone as beautiful as you isn't married yet.” He said with a wide smile.
Raye laughed. “Why aren't you married yet?” She asked him. He sighed and turned back to the night sky. Something was troubling him and she knew what it was. “Your parents didn't think she was suitable?” She asked gently. He shook his head.
“She's not as rich as they think she should be.” He admitted with a tired sigh. Raye didn't know what to say to him. He was obviously in love with whomever his parents didn't deem suitable. But she could see where they were coming from too. He had to bring a good match to his homeland to make his kingdom strong.
Someone giggled in the terrace across from them and Raye turned her attention to it. It was Mistress Avendale. She was a wealthy widow that slept with anything that came her way. And the person with her tonight was none other than a certain manwhore. Raye felt her anger bubble over. She stopped herself from cursing him. Instead, she reached out and grasped Prince Dreadwood's hand and gave it a little squeeze.
“I' m sorry.” She whispered to him and caught his gaze. Her eyes darkened and she parted her lips ever so slightly. It was a bold invitation that he took. Her hands dove into his hair, pulling him close to her.
*Way better than Jadeite's kisses.* She thought with loud clarity. His response was instantaneous.
*RAYE!* He yelled back at her and she broke away and looked around rather awkwardly. She cleared her throat and patted her hair.
“I'm sorry. We should have never done that.” She said, feeling guilty that she used the vulnerable Prince to make Jadeite jealous. “Forgive me, it's just that kissing is a way of comforting where I come from.” A stupid lie, but he didn't know anything about traditions on her planet. The Prince nodded slowly and then smiled.
“For given. Should we go back inside?” He asked. She gave a quick glance to where she saw Jadeite earlier and then followed him inside. As soon as they were inside, he excused himself. She took her place beside her parents and waited until the party was over. It seemed to take forever for it to end, but in truth, she was in no big hurry. She knew that Jadeite would seek his revenge, whatever it was as soon as she was alone. She tried not to fidget in her chair, but his turbulent thoughts kept invading her mind. But she couldn't quite grasp what he was thinking. When the party was finally over, she crept into the hallway as soon as the doors opened, hoping she could sneak away. When she realized what she was doing she scolded herself. She was Sailor Mars, the keeper of the fires. And here she was, slinking around like a child. No matter what he did or what he said, it was his fault in the first place. If he hadn't been with Mistress Avendale, she would have never kissed the Prince.
She parted from the throng of people and passed the guards posted at her wing. She was just about to enter her room when someone harshly grabbed the back of her dress. A little squeak escaped her mouth, but his other hand quieted her.
“What do you think your doing?” Her protest was muffled behind his hands. He dragged her into her room and she resisted rolling her eyes.
“I could ask you the same thing.” He retorted coldly.
“You 're the one who started it. I saw you with Mistress Avendale” She elbowed him in the side and shouted. “Do you think that I could just let you play me the fool? No one ever disrespects me and you're no different. Consider or relationship terminated. Leave my room NOW!” She screamed and shoved him hard in the chest. He stumbled back a little, but rooted his feet to the floor. Angry tears burned her eyes and she blinked them back violently. She was not going to cry over this, she wasn't going to let him get to her like this. He was just a passing fancy. That's all. She bit back a whimper. That's all.
“Raye it wasn't what you thought I swear!” He tried desperately to tell her. She wanted to believe him, but Mistress Avendale? How could she not think those things? She still didn't know why she and Jadeite were linked together, and the more she thought about it, the more she wanted not to think about it. He was the first one that could ever make her feel this way. This was supposed to be a passing thing, it could never last, it wasn't suppose to!
“Why not?” He exploded. She sighted harshly and turned away from him. She hated the fact that he could just get into her mind. “Why can't we be more that just bed companions?”
;“Because I don't need anyone to be more that that. Love can make you vulnerable and make you do things that you wouldn't normally do. I like control of my life. I like knowing how far a relationship can go.”
“ What's happiness if you don't know sadness?” He asked gently. His words rang so true, it burned right down to her core.
“I just don't want to get hurt Jadeite. I don't think I'm strong enough to get over it.” She whispered, her throat thick with emotion.
“I would never hurt you Raye. Never.” He said fiercely.
~*END FLASHBACK*~
“ ;And I never did Raye. I loved you with every fiber of my being. I still do.” He let her go and they both stood up. “I want you to remember my words as you sleep love.” He said and kissed her on the cheek. Raye was left staring after him, a million emotions running through her. I would never hurt you?
He was right, he never did. After that, they spent every waking moment together, fighting ever chance they got and making up in the next second. It was heaven, the feeling she had, like she was floating. She began walking slowly to the bedroom a soft smile on her lips. I wonder if it could be like that again.
~ ~ ~ ~
Serena looked at all of her friends sprawled out on the floor. The moonlight shone into their room and shadows of the different furniture danced here and there. She brought her knees up tot her chin. Something whispered her to wake and here she was. Waiting.
**Secrets seem to come back to life.** Serena perked up at that voice and looked around. But she knew it was coming from her head.
“What do you mean?” She whispered.
**Time is coming back to life. One by one, our protectors will fall back into the past** She whispered. Serena frowned. What was she talking about?
**It will be a good thing. Soon, we will be taken and we can't do anything about it. We have to trust our friends to do the right thing.**
“Wh ere will we be going?”
**I don't know just yet. But be prepared. We have to be prepared.** Her past self faded away and Serena let her go. Taking a deep breath, suddenly feeling tired and light headed, she closed her eyes for a second.
Her past self was talking riddles. First about the scouts falling back into the past and then about being taken. She looked back down at her friends and unintentionally roamed through each of their minds. Brief flashes of dreams flashed in her head. When she came to Ami, she saw a picture as clear as day. She was dreaming about her and Zoicite. With her interest piped, Serena watched a past memory play out. About the time Ami and Zoicite were in the library, talking about some kind of book. Serena resisted the urge to roll her eyes and backed away, letting Ami have her privacy back.
Maybe that's what her past self was talking about. The scouts falling back into the past meant that they were going to fall back in love with the guards. Serena shook her head thoughtfully and laid back down on her fluffy pillow. Ami was going to be the first to fall back into the past, and Serena smiled sleepily. Zoicite was a good match for her.
~ ~ ~ ~
Darien punched his pillow, trying to get back to sleep, but his past self's words kept ringing in his head. He was talking riddles, saying that the past will come back and take the white moonlight, and then he said something about his guards playing an important role in retrieving it. He knew he was talking about Serena, but didn't Beryl want him? Unable to get comfortable, and moody that he had to sleep alone, he walked to his suitcase and opened it with a soft click and rummaged through his socks, taking a black satin little pocket pouch out. He emptied the contents in his hand and moved into the moonlight.
He had two rainbow crystals, but he needed the other five. Zoicite had taken them and so far, she hadn't shown her face. As he rolled the gems in his hands, he looked outside at the ocean waves lapping gently on the shore. The waves were almost hypnotizing and soon, he felt his eyelids droop. Quietly, he climbed back onto the soft blankets and fell fast asleep.
~ ~ ~ ~
Lita awoke to the tantalizing smell of sausage and coffee. In a trance, she sleepily sat up and kicked off her warm blankets. She stumbled into the hallway and let her nose guide her to the food. When she reached the kitchen, she saw Nephrite humming as he stirred the eggs in a skillet pan. He turned when he heard her sliding into a chair.
“Well good morning sunshine. Care for a cup?” He asked and held out a steaming cup of coffee. She smiled and took it from him, trying not to flinch as their fingers brushed. He gave her a wink and turned back around. Faint memories floated in her mind. There was a time he had taken her to a secluded hunting cabin in Earth. After sleeping well into the morning after making love to one another, he always cooked breakfast. He was the one to introduce her to coffee.
~*FLASHBACK*~
; It was a rare trip to Earth. One that could get her into big trouble if her parents ever found out. But she liked it on Earth. There was just something about the blue planet that fascinated her. The spirit of nature was strong here. Even stronger than the rainforests of Jupiter.
She walked the worn paths of the forest she transported to and sprinted to a big tree. She looked up at the towering tree and felt a rush of excitement, but as she looked behind it, she saw an even better one. She went to that one instead and began climbing. The rough texture of the bark scraped against her skin, and she scraped her leg on a broken branch, but continued onward until she was as far up as she could get. The wind blew and tilted the wood, and she laughed softly, feeling the blast of cold air on her face. Birds flew right past her, so close, if she had reached out her hand her fingers would have brushed their feathers. She slid down a little and rested herself on a thick branch that she could easily lounge on. Suddenly, she heard something down below her. Interested to see what was going on, she climbed down a couple of branches and looked down. There was a rustling in the bushes and soon, a huge boar jumped through with a loud squeal. Lord Nephrite was right behind it, with a bow and arrow. She raised and impressed brow and watched as he stalked the boar. She didn't make a move, afraid that she would scare away his pray and bring attention to herself.
He'll probably think I visited Earth just to see him she thought a little moodily. That damn man was so cocky. A small smile tugged at her lips. And she wasn't attracted to that was she? No, not at all.
Or so she told herself.
Stopping herself from getting into another argument with her conscious, she stealthily climbed down the tree. She saw his footprints embedded lightly on the mud floor. She followed the sound of the squealing bore, running nimbly over the fallen logs and through the bushes. When she saw him in sight, she quickly crouched down before he could see her. Peeking through the bushes, she saw him slowly walk toward the unsuspecting boar that stopped to get a bite to eat. Lita remained quiet waiting and watching to see what he was going to do. A tickling sensation kept bothering her leg and she brushed it away several times. Her fingers touched the annoying thing again, when finally the texture of it grabbed her attention. She quickly looked down and jumped up with a loud scream when she saw a huge black bug on her leg. She began jumping up and down, slapping her thigh to get the bug off of her. What kind of monsters do they have on Earth?! After the frightened bug dropped off her and ran away, she took a deep breath.
“It was just a beetle”. In her still somewhat frantic state, she swore she jumped a mile when he spoke to her. She looked up and saw that his face was just inches away from her. Her cheeks began to grow warm. Great, he just saw me act like a girl and he just caught me spying on him. Damn it she cursed her self and forced her body to stand tall.
“It was a big bug.” She muttered in a defensive tone and folded her arms.
“You just cost me my hunt with your girlish screams.” He told her, also folding his arms and looking down at her like a father would a child. Lita felt her anger stir. He WAS arrogant. I wish I could slam my fist into his smirk.
“They were not girlish!” She shot at him with a defiant glare.
“You sounded like a cat in heat”. He shot at her and then smiled. “You could scream like that for me.” He purred. Lita stared at him in shock. No man was ever so bold. Two can play like that she vowed.
“I could scream louder.” She murmured seductively and leaned in until she was inches from his face. His dark blue eyes darkened with lust. “But never for you.” She snickered and pushed him away from her. She saw the fury in his eyes and smiled smugly.
“You have to get me my boar now.” He hissed.
“Why should I?” She shot back, ticked that he was giving her orders.
“You 're the one who scared him away.” He exploded. That was dinner. Lita heaved a sigh. This was a bad day to come to Earth. And she did cost him his meal even if it was a bloody accident.
“I 'll help you get another.” She offered. Nephrite handed her a knife that was stuffed in his pants waist.
“Then let's go.” He told her and spun around. Lita tightened her hand on the hilt, resisting the urge to throw it at his back.
“Damn cocky man.” She muttered and followed him into the forest. The boar wasn't too far off. Together, the crouched behind a wide tree trunk and watched it eat, while looking around to see if he had lost his predators. Nephrite motioned her to the left and she slowly made her way behind another bush, making sure she didn't brush it and scare the pig off again. Through narrowed eyes, she watched Nephrite take his place opposite her. He brought his bow up with an arrow pulled back. Then as quick as lightning, the arrow sliced through the air and buried into its target. The boar reared up with a painful howl and Lita moved quickly and sliced its neck. She felt warm blood pour out of its wound and then, it was still. The dead animal slumped down on top of her. She tried to wiggle her way out from under it, but the thing seemed to weigh a ton.
“A little help?” She snapped at Nephrite who was laughing at her. Her anger sparked her power and she raised a finger and aimed a bolt of electricity at him. His eyes widened and he ducked to the side just in time.
“God woman! Are you mad?” He asked her from his place on the ground.
“Get it off of me!” She shrieked at him and held up a warning finger.
“All right!” He yelled back and stood up. His hands grasped the legs of the beast and he slung it over his shoulder making more blood splash on her. The damn man! She stood up and shook her leg to get blood flowing again. And look at him, making that damn animal seem like a bag of potatoes. Showing off his tantalizing muscles. Making his long hair sway in the breeze. She flexed her fingers, fighting the images of running her fingers through the length. Gritting her teeth, and shaking her out of her fantasies, she looked up at the skies and cursed.
“Wha t?” He turned around. Lita cursed more quietly.
“Th ere're no more clouds in the sky.” She said. He looked at her strangely and looked up into the sky as well.
“They moved out. The weather wizards said that they'll be gone until tomorrow.” Lita's eyes widened.
“To morrow?” She asked in an anxious voice. Nephrite shrugged.
“W hat's wrong?” He asked her.
“I need the clouds to transport back home. And you're telling me that they won't be back until tomorrow?” She started panicking. It was one thing to leave home for an hour or two, but a whole day? Her parents were going to kill her! And there was another damned ball on the Moon again to honor some royalty from a far away galaxy the next night. She exhaled loudly, forgetting Nephrite there for a moment.
“You 're going to get in trouble.” Nephrite teased her in a sing-song voice. Lita fought a smile, but it came anyway. He was acting like a little kid and it was adorable.
WAIT! Adorable? She was calling him adorable? Come on, you can stay at the palace for the night. I'm sure the Prince won't mind. He motioned her along with a jerk of his neck and Lita followed. It was nightfall when they reached the Palace square. Lita looked around her, hoping no one recognized her. Nephrite turned onto a small road near the end of the village.
“Wh y are we going here? Don't you live in the palace?” She asked him.
“I do.” He answered, still turned away from her. His long legs ate up the rotting stairs of an old house. Lita frowned. Despite the fact that she sympathized with the poorer people on Earth, she was use to the finer things. She couldn't help but feel a little hesitant about going in to this dilapidated house. Why was he here in the first place? He paused at the thick wooden door and knocked. Lita watched in curiosity as it opened. Warm yellow light spilled onto his earnest face.
“Why Nephrite! I'm so glad you came to join me tonight!” A plump woman said with a smile on her withered face. Come in! Nephrite picked up the dead boar he dropped on the steps and followed her in.
“Come on Lita.” He called to her. She was a little miffed that he called her by her first name. They weren't on first name basis yet. And she hated the feeling that rolled off her when he said it. Almost like her name was meant to be said by him. Bothered by her turn of thoughts, she went inside to join him.
“Ah you brought a friend!” The woman gushed and ran up to Lita. She was short, barely reaching Lita's shoulder. The radiance the small woman let off was wonderful. She felt totally relaxed in her presence. “I'm Maddy.” She cheerfully introduced herself. Lita smiled.
“Lit a.” She said. The woman laughed and ignored her outstretched hand. Instead, she hugged her and left Lita a bit winded.
“A pretty name. The name of the Princess of Jupiter. Do you by any chance know her?” She asked. Lita bit her tongue and gave Nephrite a quick glance. He was busy putting the boar on the table. But she noticed he was listening.
“ No. How do you know of her? No one really knows the first names of the Princesses of the Alliance.”
T he woman nodded. “Yes, but Nephrite told me all about her. How strong she was, how smart and pretty. My, I feel like I know her myself to tell you the truth.” The woman said in a rush. Lita lifted an interested brow and looked at Nephrite, seeing his cheeks pink a little.
“Was he?” She asked and sat down on a comfortable wooden bench in the living room.
“Yes. It's so good to hear him speak of her with so much enthusiasm. Nephrite can be picky when it comes to women.” She said.
“Aunt Maddy.” Nephrite protested, but his aunt waved off his warning with a fluttering hand.
“I don't know why he doesn't court you dear. You're so beautiful.” Maddy gushed. Lita smiled at the elderly woman, feeling butterflies take flight in her stomach.
“Wh y thank you.”
“ ;Because she's a pain in the ass Aunt. That's why.” Nephrite answered. “She almost made me lose your boar tonight.” Lita glared at him.
“It was an accident. I helped you get it back didn't I?” She shot back.
“Ah I just love the fire in you eyes!” Maddy exclaimed and giggled like a school girl. “You two would be just perfect together!” She exclaimed. Lita turned away and blushed. Like that would ever happen.
“Wha t are you cooking? It smells atrocious!” Nephrite exclaimed, wrinkling his nose at the fire where a medium sized cauldron pot hung. His Aunt rolled her eyes and went to join him.
“Potato es with garlic.” She answered breezily. Nephrite looked disgustedly at the pot's contents. He spooned a little out and tasted it. His face turned sour.
“It's gross. You boiled the potatoes for too long.” He grumbled. His aunt simply laughed.
“We ll you came too late to fix it.”
“ Because of someone.” He gave Lita a pointed look and she glared right back. How many times was she going to have to apologize? She stood up and pushed him out of the way.
“I'll fix it you big cry baby.” She grumbled and turned to Maddy. “Where do you keep your spices?” She asked. Maddy scurried to a small cabinet and opened the door. Lita studied her spices, and picked a couple out. She put a little of this in and a little of that.
“You'r e just going to make it worse.” Nephrite grumbled. Lita ignored him and continued to add spices. After a while, she declared that dinner was fixed.
“Ah I can't wait to taste it!” Maddy exclaimed and went to fetch some bowels and utensils. Lita sat down, across from Nephrite, and dipped her spoon in the soup. Nephrite eyed her.
“Go ahead, taste it. If you survive after the first bit, then I'll eat it.” Nephrite clasped his hands together and made a big scene of waiting. Lita resisted the urge to stick out her tongue at him. She spooned a big helping into her mouth. After she chewed slowly, she dipped her spoon back into her soup.
“I'm such a good cook.” She murmured. Maddy laughed gleefully and gladly ate her food. Nephrite ate as well, not saying anything about how good it tasted, but Lita knew. Lita and Nephrite didn't say anything to each other, by Maddy filled in for their lack of talk.After dinner, they left for the palace. He escorted her to an empty room.
“If you need anything, I'll be right across the hall.” He said with a yawn.
“Is that an invitation?” She asked slyly.
“Only if you want it to be.” He shot back and left her alone. Lita sighed and began undoing the buttons of her dress. The day began wearing into her and she fought with the strings of her corset, but they were unwilling to loosen. Sighing, Lita plopped down on the bed. There was no way she could sleep with this thing on. Her eyes riveted to the door. Well, he said if I needed anything...
She opened the door and stepped out into the dark hallway. Nephrite's door loomed in front of her, beckoning her closer. She knocked before she even knew what she was doing. She heard grumbling and shuffling, and soon, his door was whipped open. Her mouth went dry all of the sudden. He was wearing nothing except his undergarments. His well toned chest hovered in front of her.
“Would you help me with this?” She asked and turned around, pointing to her corset strings.
“Wh at?” She heard surprise in his voice.
“You said if I needed anything I should come to you. Well, I need help with this.” She waited patiently; aware of the position she put him in. It was only seconds before she started feeling the gentle tugs of her dress. His hands moved swiftly, expertly to loosen the strings and he was finished in seconds.
“Th at was fast.” She began and gave him a sultry look over her shoulder. “Your hands must work magic.” She purred, loving the darkness in his eyes. She left him without another word. It was fun to flirt with him. Sliding into bed, she snuggled up to her pillow. She had to be bright and fresh tomorrow morning to return home before her parents caught her. Dark blue eyes danced in her dreams.
The next morning, someone rudely shook her awake. She tried to slap them away, but the inconsiderate person just grabbed her wrists and pulled her to sitting position. Her sleepy eyes blinked, trying to wake.
“Go away!” She moaned and kicked out her legs. “Serenity, why do you have to wake up so early?”
R 20;Lita, wake up, it me.”
Lita forced her eyes open. “Nephrite? What are you doing in my room?” He chuckled. When she heard that she bolted up.
“What time it?” She cried and scrambled out of bed. He pulled her back down.
“Don't worry, we have plenty of time.” He assured her. “Get dressed, we'll head out as soon as possible. Lita nodded and shooed him out. She grabbed her green dress and pulled it on. Without her corset, it clung to her like a second skin, but she didn't notice. When she was finished, she met Nephrite outside. He had a small cup with him and he handed it to her. She gazed into the brew and frowned.
“Wh at is it?” She asked, smelling it. It was a bitter-sweet smell.
“It's called coffee. Only the Palace has it. The bean is rather rare and from an exotic place. But it perks you up rather well. It'll give you enough energy to transport back.”
She took a sip and then spit it out all over him. “Ahh, disgusting!” She cried out.
“Damn it Lita, look what you did!” He shot at her a frustrated look.
“Well, it's gross!” She protested, trying to hold in her laughter. He pulled the cup back under her mouth.
“Drin k it.” He ordered. Grumbling about being ordered about, she took a deep breath and held it, downing the bitter brew. He took the cup from her as soon as she was finished and patted her on the shoulder.
“G ood girl. Now lets get going.”
He was right. An unknown energy made her skip all the way to the forest.
“Tha nk you Nephrite for taking me here. You're so nice. Do people always tell you you're nice? They should. I think that if everyone says something nice to one another each day. It would make the day brighter. I think that's going to be a new goal for me. To say thank you. Thank you trees! Thank you sky! Thank you air. Thank you--hey!” Nephrite put a hand over her mouth.
“Okay , I think nature gets it. Here you are.” He said. Lita giggled and summoned her power. At the last minute, before she shot into the air, she leaned in quickly and gave him a hard kiss on the mouth.
“Than k you Nephrite! You're so handsome!” She called out and then she was home.
~*END FLASHBACK*~
Lita took a sip of her sweetened coffee and smiled. After she had kissed him and finally realized what she had done, it was like a new beginning for her. He never objected, nor mentioned that kiss. Despite the fact she was wired, she meant that kiss and she never told him. As she watched him stir the contents in the pan, she wondered if she would ever tell him.
Mina rolled to her side and looked blankly at the bare wall of the room. Faintly, she could hear the gently clicking of the clock and Serena's soft snores. Heaving a defeated sigh, she lifted herself out of her warm blankets and tip toed out of the room.
On the cold floors of the beach house she watched as shadows danced in the moonlight shining through the wide windows. Someone snored loudly in the guys' room.
“A snore like that can make the Earth shudder.” She told herself quietly with a chuckle.
“Th at's what I was thinking.” Gasping, she twirled around to confront the dark voice. When she saw him sitting on the couch, she let out a shaky breath of relief, but it faded to anger.
“Damn you Kunzite.” Do you want me to stab you again? She threatened. He lifted an interested brow.
“So you remember.” He said with a small smile. She resisted the urge to roll her eyes and went to a nearby chair to sit down.
“Of course I remember. You almost cried.” She mocked him. Dark humor danced in his slivery-blue eyes.
“I did not.” He shot back and slouched on the couch. “You had bad aim. My leg is far from my heart.”
Mina narrowed her eyes. “I wasn't aiming for your heart. You moved before I could impale my real target.” She murmured, looking thoughtfully at his lower torso. It took a second before Kunzite realized what she had been talking about and he snorted.
“Be en taking sword lessons from Raye?” He asked. She smiled smugly.
“She was always good at finding new places to hurt her foe.” Mina said with a cocky smile. “Besides, you were in my room in the middle of the night. What was I to think? By the way, you never did tell me why you were there in the first place.” She eyed him warily. “Tell me.”
Kunzite sighed. “Why? It was a long time ago and I think you know why.”
Mina searched her memories. When it came to her she smiled. “You wanted to finish what we had started in the field.”
~*FLASHBACK*~
; It was a pass time for her. Archery in the sun-kissed fields of the Moon, bathed in the golden light with colorful butterflies dancing round about her. She was pulling back the ridged string when another arrow came sailing at her target out of nowhere. She jerked her head around and saw Lord Kunzite standing on a shallow hill with his bow still poised. The wind ruffled his shoulder length hair.
No matter how delicious he looked, he was still a jerk. She narrowed her eyes at him and put an angry hand on her hip. “Damn man.” She muttered and watched him saunter to her like he was the most important man in the kingdom.
“Bu ll's eye.” He said and held gave her a small smile. Mina glared at him.
“What the hell do you think you're doing?” She hotly shot at him. “I was practicing. I don't need your company.” She growled and went to her target to pull out his arrow.
“You don't like a little competition?” He asked her and plucked his arrow out of her hands.
“Of course I do.” She said breezily, secretly glad that he wanted to spend some time with her. Ever since they had their touch and tell duel a week ago, she wanted to spend more time with him. He was so cold and mysterious and she couldn't help but be a little curious about him and everything about him. And this was the perfect way to do that. She smiled secretly to herself, Lord Kunzite was awfully stuffy. She wondered if she could take him out of it and bring out his more daring nature.
~*END FLASHBACK*~
“ ;I was quite shocked about the little proposition you had.”
Mina smiled and flipped her hair back. “Yes.” She laughed. “But I didn't hear you protesting. That was quite shocking.”
~*FLASHBACK*~
&n bsp; “Want to make it interesting?” She asked, looking expectantly at him.
“It depends on what you would call interesting.” He told her with folded arms.
“Well, if you want to be boring.” She began.
“I'm not boring.” He protested. Mina rocked on her heels.
“Alri ght.” She chirped and looked around her. Her stomach was fluttering with anticipation. “Every time we miss the bull's eye mark, we have to discard a piece of our clothing.” She challenged. She swore his mouth fell open.
“What? What kind of arrangement is that? Someone could see us!” He answered, a bit flabbergasted.
220;Like I said Lord Kunzite, if you want to be boring then,” She was cut off again.
“I told you I was not boring.” He paused and looked thoughtfully around. “But if we're going to do this, then we have to go to a more secluded place.”
Mina giggled. “Want me all to yourself do you?” Kunzite ignored that remark.
“So the Princess won't see you doing something scandalous.” He retorted. That made Mina laugh harder.
“She won't see anything on you that she hasn't seen on your Prince.” She said between breaths. Kunzite smirked along with her. “Alright. I know a place to go.” She motioned him to follow her. They made their way into the forest taking odd turns and going through overgrown paths until they were in a little clearing. Kunzite looked around, nodding his approval. Mina lifted her finger and pointed it at a large trunk. Golden light shot out of her tip and traced a bull's eye on it.
She locked eyes with him and slowly withdrew an arrow from her quiver and armed her bow. Pivoting on her heel, she pulled back the taunt string to her chin and narrowed her eyes. The arrow shot at the mark like lightning and pierced into the center. It was an easy shot. Kunzite took his turn, standing close to her. His presence was rather overwhelming. It was like she could feel the hardness of his muscles and the command he possessed. Mina had to take a few inconspicuous deep breaths to stop her heart from hammering so hard in her chest.
His arrow whistled through the gentle breeze and pierced the trunk, next to her own arrow. On and on they sparred until Mina missed and hit an outside ring.
“Damn. ” She hissed silently. Kunzite gave her a smile and pointed to her shoes. She kicked one off. And hour or two went by and both of them were striped to their underclothes. Shadows fell over the mark, making it harder to see it. Mina squinted her eyes, trying not to shiver as a cold breeze whipped around her. She was just about to let her arrow go when a loud crashing sound boomed and then the rain came. Big fat drops fell on them.
“We better get inside!” Kunzite hollered over the crashing lightning. Mina blinked the rain out of her eyes and gathered her clothes. She could barely see beyond the grey mist of the storm and tripped over a root. Kunzite caught her around the waist and hauled her back up. She was glad the storm was loud because he would have heard her little gasp. She didn't know what was wrong with her. He was just like the other men in her life wasn't he? Why was she so damn attracted to him? So much that just a simple thing like a touch, a glance even made her get hot for him.
They burst through the thick forest and skidded to a halt when they saw the steep hill they were on. But their momentum was lost and their feet slipped in the soft mud. With a strangled cry, they fell head first down the hill. The world rolled all around her. A sharp rock bit onto her arm. Her hands shot out blindly, trying to stop. They grasped Kunzite's arm and with all her might, she pulled him close to her. With both of them rolling, their paced slowed and when she thought it couldn't get any worse, they landed in a cold puddle of water that pooled at the bottom of the hill.
“Damn it!” Mina shrieked and lifted herself up on her hands. Water dripped down her face and her thick hair was matted to her back and forehead. Kunzite grabbed her hand and pulled her up.
“We need to stay somewhere until the storm ends!” He yelled and jerked her with him. Together they stumbled to a patch of rocks that had a little opening toward the bottom. It was just big enough for them to crawl into. She pulled away from him and huddled against the rocks. Cautiously she peered into the darkness. It was such a small space and he was so big, it was like he took up all the room. Their body heat radiated off them and heated up the place, and all they could do was stay seated and listen to the rain slapping on the ground and hitting on the grey boulders.
“I think I won.” He finally said. Mina eyed him in the darkness.
“H ow so?” She shot at him and folded her arms.
“I have more clothes on.” He simply said. Mina fingered her almost translucent undergarment and blushed a little. When the rain had started, it immediately soaked through and molded to her body like a second skin. He must have seen it. Goosebumps raced across her arms.
“Right .” She said in a breathless voice with a hint of quiver. Oh god, he didn't hear that did he? She cleared her throat. “But I think I would have won if this storm hadn't come.”
He chuckled and she felt the vibrations hit her. Her heart sped up and she licked her lips. Her hands were opening and closing, itching to just touch him. This was just a passing feeling. She hoped.
“What do I win?” He asked. Mina blinked and then leaned forward.
“Sa y that again?” She felt him stretch out until her small body was caged between his long legs. He leaned in as well until she felt his breath on her forehead. She jerked her head back, trying to put a little space between them, but he captured her head in his hands and held her in place. Her heart jumped to her throat.
“Wha t do I win?” He asked again in a silky voice that made desire pool in her stomach.
“Wh at do you want?” She whispered to him. A small sliver of light filtered through the boulders and lit his sliver eyes. He leaned closer and Mina closed her eyes just as he pressed his lips against hers. The touch was electrifying. Her passions flared to life and she gasped at the heat of it. Never in her life was a kiss so intense. He was making her want to toss aside the rule to wait until she was married to make love. She moaned. Who made the rules anyway? Her hands came up and buried into his wet hair, twirling the strands around her fingers. His tongue darted into her mouth...
~*END FLASHBACK*~
Mina snapped abruptly out of her memories, aware that Kunzite was watching her intently. She let out a breath and shook off the wave of desire that assaulted her and smiled.
“Yes . Shocking.” He murmured.
“Y ou know what? I think we would have done something a little too early if Serenity hadn't come.” She said breezily and tucked her feet under her. Kunzite's face turned sour.
“It was partly her fault too. If she hadn't interrupted us then I wouldn't have a scar on my leg.” He said, tapping his old wound. Mina giggled, and put a hand up to her mouth. She had to keep quiet, she didn't want to wake up the others.
“Wel l she was worried about us.”
~*FLASHBACK*~
&n bsp; They were so wrapped up in their kisses that at first, they didn't hear someone clearing their throat. It was only after Serenity said a word that they stopped and looked out to the little entrance of the rocks. The princess was crouched down looking at them with a little blush. Mina felt calloused hands slip from her breast and she flushed.
“We were just ahhh...” She began, licking her swollen lips.
Serenity shook her head. “Think nothing of it Mina. The storm is over. Perhaps you two can come out. Your mother has been asking about you.” She stood up and stepped aside. Mina let out a little laugh and lifted herself out from under Kunzite. He handed her clothes to her and she jerked on her wrinkled overdress. Silently she made her way out of the boulders and stood up. Kunzite followed her out and then stiffened.
“ Prince.” He said rigidly and bowed. Prince Endymion stood by Serenity's side with a blank expression on his face.
“Princ e Endymion, what happened between Lord Kunzite and I-” She began. She didn't want him to get into trouble. Who knew what kind of rules his guards went by or what punishment they could get if they broke the rules.
“You don't need to explain yourself Mina. The Prince understands,” Serenity paused and gave the Prince a look, “Anything can happen when desire takes over. Right?” She asked him. Mina saw that Endymion was a little miffed about being put on the spot. Anyone could read between the lines and get what Serenity was saying. Endymion's mouth thinned and he gave Serenity blazing eyes before he turned back to Kunzite.
“We have to dress for dinner.” He growled and turned around. Kunzite looked a little uneasy, but he gave Mina smile before turning and following his Prince.
Serenity turned back and smiled at her. Mina smiled back. “I guess we have to use the back entrance of the Palace. Wouldn't want anyone seeing you in your rumpled state.” She wiped a smudge of dirt off of Mina's cheek and giggled.
Later, when dinner was over and night fell, Mina was fast asleep and in the middle of a very interesting dream when a loud thump woke her. Immediately, her warrior instincts leaped into play. Stealthily, she slipped out of her bed and moved silently around her bed. Her window was open and sheer amber curtains billowed in the light breeze. She slipped her hand under the feather mat of her bed and grasped the handle of a dagger. The sharp blade flashed in the moonbeams that rested in her room. She peeked around the corner of her bed and saw a large shadow hunched and moving to her bed. Moving quickly, she stood and raised the dagger, but the assailant sensed her, despite her quietness and caught her hand. She let out a gasp, and her leg shot out to trip him. He grunted and landed on a knee. Raye's suggested area to attack popped into her mind and she aimed for it, bit he moved last minute and she stabled him in the leg. He cursed and grabbed her hand.
“Damn you Mina.” He hissed. She stopped struggling and gasped.
“Oh my god Kunzite!” She shrieked and pulled her dagger out of his leg. He groaned and she put a hand to his wound. “You should have told me it was you!” She cried, horrified at what she had just done.
*Ami, come quick!* She fervently telepathed to her friend. When Ami did get the message, she brought the whole gang. Mina groaned. Did she have to bring them all?
~*END FLASHBACK*~
“ ;Good thing Ami was such a good healer.” Mina said with a soft smile. After she had stabbed him she went to see him the week he was in recovery. It was a good thing they had to stay longer because after that, everything went down hill from that. Even looking at him now brought back how much she loved him. She gazed at him and locked eyes. Were things so different now? Could she fall back in love with him easier now?
~ ~ ~ ~
Raye exhaled loudly. He was so damn loud. Some things never change! She thought angrily and whipped the blankets off of her. She stepped over Lita and Ami and slipped out of the room. She ignored the soft murmurings coming from the living room and slipped into the boys' room and spotted him snoring away. How could they even sleep with noise like that!? She reached over and squeezed his nose shut. It was only seconds before he started coughing and gasping for breath. His eyes opened and like all the times in the past, filled with mirth and laughter.
“D amn you Jadeite. Sleep on your stomach!” She hissed and hit him on the shoulder before leaving. But he grabbed her hand and jerked her back on the bed. He trapped her arms to the side of her as he wrapped his own arms around her shoulders.
“ You know I can't sleep on my back without you resting on top of me.” He purred sleepily. Butterflies fluttered in her stomach. In the past, she would always sleep on his back. To this day, that was still the most comfortable position to her. She would bury her face in the crook of his neck and all night, breathe in the unique smell of him.
“Hey, if Serena and I have to stay apart tonight, you have to too.” Darien muttered loudly, and buried his face in his pillow.
“Ser enity banned you from her bed.” Jadeite replied. Darien groaned and gave him the finger, while pointing them out. Jadeite stood, lifting her off her feet.
“What are you doing?” Raye hissed loudly.
“Hey , keep it down!” Zoicite growled and lifted the covers over his head.
“Yeah love, keep it down.” He hummed in her ear. Goosebumps ran across her skin and her heart began to beat rapidly. He opened the door with his foot and exited, just as Kunzite was walking with Mina down the hall.
“What are you two doing?” Mina asked slyly. Raye flushed and wiggled in Jadeite's embrace, but he only tightened his hold on her.
“What are you two doing?” Raye shot back at them. Mina laughed.
“Go ing back to bed.” She said and waved to them, entering the room and closing the door with a soft click. Raye glared at the door. She just left me with HIM? Kunzite stared after her for a moment, a flash of something passing across his face.
“Me too.” He said and shuffled pass them to go into the room. Jadeite said a soft goodnight and then carried her into the front room. He plopped her down on the couch, and she tried to get away, but he dragged her back, this time, sitting first and then having her sit on his lap.
“Let me go. I'm tired.” Raye said, trying to be free of him.
“No, we're going to talk first, love.” He said and blew a piece of her hair out of his face.
“About what?” She asked with a defeated sigh.
~ ~ ~
Jadeite felt her loosen a little and he smiled.
“You remember when we started sleeping together?” He began. Her shoulders tensed, but he ignored it and continued. “You remember how love- hate our relationship was right?” She nodded stiffly.
“Mo re hate that love though.” She said. He nodded.
“It was like than until we finally realized that we couldn't be with anyone else without longing for one another.”
&# 8220;That's what you call jealousy?” She murmured.
~*FLASHBACK*~
&nb sp; “You need to go now.” Raye said and sat up, wrapping the blankets around her nude body and went into the washroom. Jadeite was left on the bed, naked, feeling the air hit his hot body.
“Let me catch my breath first.” He snapped. It was never enough for him. No matter how empty this relationship was, he could never get enough of her.
“How long will it take?” She snapped back and he heard her pour water in a bowl.
“I didn't bitch when you took your dear sweet time getting dressed last night.” He growled and sat up. He grabbed his clothes off of the floor and pulled them on. Raye emerged dressed a red nightgown. Hot desire began to build up again and he narrowed his eyes. He could take her again in an instant.
“It 's almost morning and I have a busy day.” She grabbed his boots and tossed them to him.
“Don't worry Mars. I got what I needed from you.” He snickered. She narrowed her eyes.
“As did I.” She shot back and snuffed out the candles. Jadeite watched her slip back into bed without giving him a second glance.
The next morning he entered the dining room and saw that Princess Serenity and her court were just entering. His eyes immediately focused on Raye. She ignored him of course. That was the arrangements they made when they began their affair.
“Ah Lord Jadeite. You're early.” Lita said brightly and pulled out a chair to sit on.
“Unlike some.” Serenity muttered, looking past him. He turned and saw his Prince enter with the rest of their party. The Prince ignored her remark and sat across from her. As soon as they were all seated, the kitchen doors swung open and a heard of servants entered with their hands full of food.
As they began to eat, he watched Raye beneath his lashes. But the more he watched her, the more he became enraged. He was a pretty laid back guy, always finding the humor in all things, but with Raye, damn, she was the only person who could get him so angry. She acted like she wasn't going through all the turbulent thoughts like he was. Like everything was normal. Like they weren't even sleeping together! As he finished that heated thought, her eyes jerked up, wide with shock.
What was wrong with her? Raye's eyes widened more and she quickly looked around. She was acting strange.
*This is not happening* He heard her. But her lips didn't move. It was his turn to look shocked. He didn't just hear her thoughts did he? Raye's lips parted and she stared at him like her world was going to end.
*This is madness! Stay out of my thoughts!* She shot at him and busied herself with her eggs. *How could this have happened? I never shared telepathy with anyone besides my friends. How could he hear my thoughts? I can't keep secrets from him now. Damn, Jadeite, you better not be listening.* She hissed and took a loud slurp of her juice. *Oops*
Raye looked at Princess Serenity in a sheepish manner. Serenity raised an eyebrow at her. *Sorry.* He heard her apologize.
The new experience was vastly amusing, but disturbing as well. She was probably listening to him think these things right now. Her utensils slowed and she chewed slowly, locking eyes with him.
*I'm going to get to the bottom of this Jadeite.* She told him.
*Who are you going to ask?* He shot back at her. Raye looked to her side at Ami.
*You don't need to worry about that. Until I can block you from my thoughts, keep out of them you hear me?*
*What's the fun in that Mars? Our bond is special. Intimate even.* He purred right back and bit into a piece of warm sausage. Her face flushed at the word intimate and she narrowed her eyes.
*Our agreement was to not mention our nighttime activities during the day. If you insist on doing so, than consider our arrangement finished* She told him icily. He smirked at her.
*I didn't say it out loud Mars. Talk about rigid.* He muttered.
*Don't talk to me anymore.*
*But it's so fun Mars. No one can hear us. Our link is isolated to all.*
*Shut up.*
“Jadeit e!” He broke away from his link.
“What Nephrite?” He asked. Nephrite looked at him oddly.
“That was the third time I said your name. Where did you mind go?” He asked in a little huff.
*To last night when you screamed-*
“ I'm finished.” Raye interrupted his thought and stood up sharply. Serenity glanced at Raye's plate and then back up to Raye.
“But you barely ate anything.” She perceived with a frown.
“I'm not hungry. May I be excused?” She asked, drumming her fingers on the back of her chair. Serenity nodded slowly and Raye left.
*Stay out of my mind!* She yelled at him. The thought was so loud that his head began to hammer. Everyone watched her disappear outside.
“I wonder what's the matter with her.” Mina murmured thoughtfully.
R 20;Maybe she didn't sleep well.” Lita suggested with a shrug. Jadeite had to smile. I bet she slept like the dead when I was finished with her he thought cockily.
*Don't be stupid you jerk.* Her sharp remark cut into what he was thinking and he choked on his food. Zoicite began pounding on his back. He could feel Raye's feline like smile.
*I hope you die on that food.* She said sweetly.
*Bitch.* He sucked in a breath.
“Don 't inhale your food.” Kunzite said dryly. Jadeite coughed one more time.
“Are you alright?” Serenity asked. He nodded and pushed his plate away.
“We were trying to ask you if you wanted to stay here tonight. The Queen is throwing a party to welcome some Royalty. The Mars royalty are looking for a suitor for their daughter and this one could be a possible match.” Nephrite said. A match for Raye? Like anyone could survive being married to her. He heard a hiss and knew Raye was listening to his thoughts intently.
“T hat sounds like fun.” He answered. Yeah, fun to see the poor Prince be mowed down by Raye the spitfire. He couldn't wait to see how she would treat the poor unsuspecting man.
*You'll never know.* The way she replied pulled a curiously new feeling in his chest.
~*END FLASHBACK*~
“ ;I never knew at that time I could ever be jealous. But that night, you proved me wrong love.”
̶ 0;Right, how could anyone like you be jealous?” She snickered. But she remembered that night as well. That feeling was to be shared when the party was in full swing. Her parents thought that they needed to find her a husband. But she wasn't about to bow down to marital bliss as they put it, so easily. If her parents ever found out that she had slept with anyone before getting married, she could lose the throne. But her one affair was locked up tight, thanks to Serenity's mind wipe ability. But the affair she had started with Jadeite was nothing she planned on doing. It just happened.
The sexual tension between them was something she couldn't fight. And she didn't. She thought that if she had him, her hunger would dissipate. How wrong she was. It was hard to pull herself away from him after they had finished. If she could, she would have stayed all day and night and then some, in bed.
~*FLASHBACK*~
&n bsp; Parties were always dull to her. Her hopeful parents had trotted out the Prince and she dismissed him in a second. He wasn't...NO! She stopped herself before finishing her thought. HE could hear it.
She looked around quickly, but he was no where in sight. Maybe his mind was elsewhere. Ami and Zoicite were talking quietly next to the punch table, Mina and Kunzite were dancing, totally engrossed with one another and Lita and Nephrite were arguing over the food and she was stuck here by herself, listening to the boring Prince. Not that he was ugly or anything. Prince Dreadwood had beautiful crystal green eyes with dark curly hair, the color of copper. He was fit too. His royal ensemble molded to his body in just the right places.
“Wou ld you like to go out on the terrace?” He offered. Raye smiled and nodded.
He grasped her elbow gently and led her outside. Cold air rushed to greet them and she shivered. “Cold?” He asked and took off his coat, draping it over her shoulders.
“ The Moon Kingdom is beautiful.” He commented, looking out into the distance.
“Y es. It is.”
“ I don't get it.” He started. Raye frowned.
“Wh at do you mean?”
̶ 0;I don't get how someone as beautiful as you isn't married yet.” He said with a wide smile.
Raye laughed. “Why aren't you married yet?” She asked him. He sighed and turned back to the night sky. Something was troubling him and she knew what it was. “Your parents didn't think she was suitable?” She asked gently. He shook his head.
“She's not as rich as they think she should be.” He admitted with a tired sigh. Raye didn't know what to say to him. He was obviously in love with whomever his parents didn't deem suitable. But she could see where they were coming from too. He had to bring a good match to his homeland to make his kingdom strong.
Someone giggled in the terrace across from them and Raye turned her attention to it. It was Mistress Avendale. She was a wealthy widow that slept with anything that came her way. And the person with her tonight was none other than a certain manwhore. Raye felt her anger bubble over. She stopped herself from cursing him. Instead, she reached out and grasped Prince Dreadwood's hand and gave it a little squeeze.
“I' m sorry.” She whispered to him and caught his gaze. Her eyes darkened and she parted her lips ever so slightly. It was a bold invitation that he took. Her hands dove into his hair, pulling him close to her.
*Way better than Jadeite's kisses.* She thought with loud clarity. His response was instantaneous.
*RAYE!* He yelled back at her and she broke away and looked around rather awkwardly. She cleared her throat and patted her hair.
“I'm sorry. We should have never done that.” She said, feeling guilty that she used the vulnerable Prince to make Jadeite jealous. “Forgive me, it's just that kissing is a way of comforting where I come from.” A stupid lie, but he didn't know anything about traditions on her planet. The Prince nodded slowly and then smiled.
“For given. Should we go back inside?” He asked. She gave a quick glance to where she saw Jadeite earlier and then followed him inside. As soon as they were inside, he excused himself. She took her place beside her parents and waited until the party was over. It seemed to take forever for it to end, but in truth, she was in no big hurry. She knew that Jadeite would seek his revenge, whatever it was as soon as she was alone. She tried not to fidget in her chair, but his turbulent thoughts kept invading her mind. But she couldn't quite grasp what he was thinking. When the party was finally over, she crept into the hallway as soon as the doors opened, hoping she could sneak away. When she realized what she was doing she scolded herself. She was Sailor Mars, the keeper of the fires. And here she was, slinking around like a child. No matter what he did or what he said, it was his fault in the first place. If he hadn't been with Mistress Avendale, she would have never kissed the Prince.
She parted from the throng of people and passed the guards posted at her wing. She was just about to enter her room when someone harshly grabbed the back of her dress. A little squeak escaped her mouth, but his other hand quieted her.
“What do you think your doing?” Her protest was muffled behind his hands. He dragged her into her room and she resisted rolling her eyes.
“I could ask you the same thing.” He retorted coldly.
“You 're the one who started it. I saw you with Mistress Avendale” She elbowed him in the side and shouted. “Do you think that I could just let you play me the fool? No one ever disrespects me and you're no different. Consider or relationship terminated. Leave my room NOW!” She screamed and shoved him hard in the chest. He stumbled back a little, but rooted his feet to the floor. Angry tears burned her eyes and she blinked them back violently. She was not going to cry over this, she wasn't going to let him get to her like this. He was just a passing fancy. That's all. She bit back a whimper. That's all.
“Raye it wasn't what you thought I swear!” He tried desperately to tell her. She wanted to believe him, but Mistress Avendale? How could she not think those things? She still didn't know why she and Jadeite were linked together, and the more she thought about it, the more she wanted not to think about it. He was the first one that could ever make her feel this way. This was supposed to be a passing thing, it could never last, it wasn't suppose to!
“Why not?” He exploded. She sighted harshly and turned away from him. She hated the fact that he could just get into her mind. “Why can't we be more that just bed companions?”
;“Because I don't need anyone to be more that that. Love can make you vulnerable and make you do things that you wouldn't normally do. I like control of my life. I like knowing how far a relationship can go.”
“ What's happiness if you don't know sadness?” He asked gently. His words rang so true, it burned right down to her core.
“I just don't want to get hurt Jadeite. I don't think I'm strong enough to get over it.” She whispered, her throat thick with emotion.
“I would never hurt you Raye. Never.” He said fiercely.
~*END FLASHBACK*~
“ ;And I never did Raye. I loved you with every fiber of my being. I still do.” He let her go and they both stood up. “I want you to remember my words as you sleep love.” He said and kissed her on the cheek. Raye was left staring after him, a million emotions running through her. I would never hurt you?
He was right, he never did. After that, they spent every waking moment together, fighting ever chance they got and making up in the next second. It was heaven, the feeling she had, like she was floating. She began walking slowly to the bedroom a soft smile on her lips. I wonder if it could be like that again.
~ ~ ~ ~
Serena looked at all of her friends sprawled out on the floor. The moonlight shone into their room and shadows of the different furniture danced here and there. She brought her knees up tot her chin. Something whispered her to wake and here she was. Waiting.
**Secrets seem to come back to life.** Serena perked up at that voice and looked around. But she knew it was coming from her head.
“What do you mean?” She whispered.
**Time is coming back to life. One by one, our protectors will fall back into the past** She whispered. Serena frowned. What was she talking about?
**It will be a good thing. Soon, we will be taken and we can't do anything about it. We have to trust our friends to do the right thing.**
“Wh ere will we be going?”
**I don't know just yet. But be prepared. We have to be prepared.** Her past self faded away and Serena let her go. Taking a deep breath, suddenly feeling tired and light headed, she closed her eyes for a second.
Her past self was talking riddles. First about the scouts falling back into the past and then about being taken. She looked back down at her friends and unintentionally roamed through each of their minds. Brief flashes of dreams flashed in her head. When she came to Ami, she saw a picture as clear as day. She was dreaming about her and Zoicite. With her interest piped, Serena watched a past memory play out. About the time Ami and Zoicite were in the library, talking about some kind of book. Serena resisted the urge to roll her eyes and backed away, letting Ami have her privacy back.
Maybe that's what her past self was talking about. The scouts falling back into the past meant that they were going to fall back in love with the guards. Serena shook her head thoughtfully and laid back down on her fluffy pillow. Ami was going to be the first to fall back into the past, and Serena smiled sleepily. Zoicite was a good match for her.
~ ~ ~ ~
Darien punched his pillow, trying to get back to sleep, but his past self's words kept ringing in his head. He was talking riddles, saying that the past will come back and take the white moonlight, and then he said something about his guards playing an important role in retrieving it. He knew he was talking about Serena, but didn't Beryl want him? Unable to get comfortable, and moody that he had to sleep alone, he walked to his suitcase and opened it with a soft click and rummaged through his socks, taking a black satin little pocket pouch out. He emptied the contents in his hand and moved into the moonlight.
He had two rainbow crystals, but he needed the other five. Zoicite had taken them and so far, she hadn't shown her face. As he rolled the gems in his hands, he looked outside at the ocean waves lapping gently on the shore. The waves were almost hypnotizing and soon, he felt his eyelids droop. Quietly, he climbed back onto the soft blankets and fell fast asleep.
~ ~ ~ ~
Lita awoke to the tantalizing smell of sausage and coffee. In a trance, she sleepily sat up and kicked off her warm blankets. She stumbled into the hallway and let her nose guide her to the food. When she reached the kitchen, she saw Nephrite humming as he stirred the eggs in a skillet pan. He turned when he heard her sliding into a chair.
“Well good morning sunshine. Care for a cup?” He asked and held out a steaming cup of coffee. She smiled and took it from him, trying not to flinch as their fingers brushed. He gave her a wink and turned back around. Faint memories floated in her mind. There was a time he had taken her to a secluded hunting cabin in Earth. After sleeping well into the morning after making love to one another, he always cooked breakfast. He was the one to introduce her to coffee.
~*FLASHBACK*~
; It was a rare trip to Earth. One that could get her into big trouble if her parents ever found out. But she liked it on Earth. There was just something about the blue planet that fascinated her. The spirit of nature was strong here. Even stronger than the rainforests of Jupiter.
She walked the worn paths of the forest she transported to and sprinted to a big tree. She looked up at the towering tree and felt a rush of excitement, but as she looked behind it, she saw an even better one. She went to that one instead and began climbing. The rough texture of the bark scraped against her skin, and she scraped her leg on a broken branch, but continued onward until she was as far up as she could get. The wind blew and tilted the wood, and she laughed softly, feeling the blast of cold air on her face. Birds flew right past her, so close, if she had reached out her hand her fingers would have brushed their feathers. She slid down a little and rested herself on a thick branch that she could easily lounge on. Suddenly, she heard something down below her. Interested to see what was going on, she climbed down a couple of branches and looked down. There was a rustling in the bushes and soon, a huge boar jumped through with a loud squeal. Lord Nephrite was right behind it, with a bow and arrow. She raised and impressed brow and watched as he stalked the boar. She didn't make a move, afraid that she would scare away his pray and bring attention to herself.
He'll probably think I visited Earth just to see him she thought a little moodily. That damn man was so cocky. A small smile tugged at her lips. And she wasn't attracted to that was she? No, not at all.
Or so she told herself.
Stopping herself from getting into another argument with her conscious, she stealthily climbed down the tree. She saw his footprints embedded lightly on the mud floor. She followed the sound of the squealing bore, running nimbly over the fallen logs and through the bushes. When she saw him in sight, she quickly crouched down before he could see her. Peeking through the bushes, she saw him slowly walk toward the unsuspecting boar that stopped to get a bite to eat. Lita remained quiet waiting and watching to see what he was going to do. A tickling sensation kept bothering her leg and she brushed it away several times. Her fingers touched the annoying thing again, when finally the texture of it grabbed her attention. She quickly looked down and jumped up with a loud scream when she saw a huge black bug on her leg. She began jumping up and down, slapping her thigh to get the bug off of her. What kind of monsters do they have on Earth?! After the frightened bug dropped off her and ran away, she took a deep breath.
“It was just a beetle”. In her still somewhat frantic state, she swore she jumped a mile when he spoke to her. She looked up and saw that his face was just inches away from her. Her cheeks began to grow warm. Great, he just saw me act like a girl and he just caught me spying on him. Damn it she cursed her self and forced her body to stand tall.
“It was a big bug.” She muttered in a defensive tone and folded her arms.
“You just cost me my hunt with your girlish screams.” He told her, also folding his arms and looking down at her like a father would a child. Lita felt her anger stir. He WAS arrogant. I wish I could slam my fist into his smirk.
“They were not girlish!” She shot at him with a defiant glare.
“You sounded like a cat in heat”. He shot at her and then smiled. “You could scream like that for me.” He purred. Lita stared at him in shock. No man was ever so bold. Two can play like that she vowed.
“I could scream louder.” She murmured seductively and leaned in until she was inches from his face. His dark blue eyes darkened with lust. “But never for you.” She snickered and pushed him away from her. She saw the fury in his eyes and smiled smugly.
“You have to get me my boar now.” He hissed.
“Why should I?” She shot back, ticked that he was giving her orders.
“You 're the one who scared him away.” He exploded. That was dinner. Lita heaved a sigh. This was a bad day to come to Earth. And she did cost him his meal even if it was a bloody accident.
“I 'll help you get another.” She offered. Nephrite handed her a knife that was stuffed in his pants waist.
“Then let's go.” He told her and spun around. Lita tightened her hand on the hilt, resisting the urge to throw it at his back.
“Damn cocky man.” She muttered and followed him into the forest. The boar wasn't too far off. Together, the crouched behind a wide tree trunk and watched it eat, while looking around to see if he had lost his predators. Nephrite motioned her to the left and she slowly made her way behind another bush, making sure she didn't brush it and scare the pig off again. Through narrowed eyes, she watched Nephrite take his place opposite her. He brought his bow up with an arrow pulled back. Then as quick as lightning, the arrow sliced through the air and buried into its target. The boar reared up with a painful howl and Lita moved quickly and sliced its neck. She felt warm blood pour out of its wound and then, it was still. The dead animal slumped down on top of her. She tried to wiggle her way out from under it, but the thing seemed to weigh a ton.
“A little help?” She snapped at Nephrite who was laughing at her. Her anger sparked her power and she raised a finger and aimed a bolt of electricity at him. His eyes widened and he ducked to the side just in time.
“God woman! Are you mad?” He asked her from his place on the ground.
“Get it off of me!” She shrieked at him and held up a warning finger.
“All right!” He yelled back and stood up. His hands grasped the legs of the beast and he slung it over his shoulder making more blood splash on her. The damn man! She stood up and shook her leg to get blood flowing again. And look at him, making that damn animal seem like a bag of potatoes. Showing off his tantalizing muscles. Making his long hair sway in the breeze. She flexed her fingers, fighting the images of running her fingers through the length. Gritting her teeth, and shaking her out of her fantasies, she looked up at the skies and cursed.
“Wha t?” He turned around. Lita cursed more quietly.
“Th ere're no more clouds in the sky.” She said. He looked at her strangely and looked up into the sky as well.
“They moved out. The weather wizards said that they'll be gone until tomorrow.” Lita's eyes widened.
“To morrow?” She asked in an anxious voice. Nephrite shrugged.
“W hat's wrong?” He asked her.
“I need the clouds to transport back home. And you're telling me that they won't be back until tomorrow?” She started panicking. It was one thing to leave home for an hour or two, but a whole day? Her parents were going to kill her! And there was another damned ball on the Moon again to honor some royalty from a far away galaxy the next night. She exhaled loudly, forgetting Nephrite there for a moment.
“You 're going to get in trouble.” Nephrite teased her in a sing-song voice. Lita fought a smile, but it came anyway. He was acting like a little kid and it was adorable.
WAIT! Adorable? She was calling him adorable? Come on, you can stay at the palace for the night. I'm sure the Prince won't mind. He motioned her along with a jerk of his neck and Lita followed. It was nightfall when they reached the Palace square. Lita looked around her, hoping no one recognized her. Nephrite turned onto a small road near the end of the village.
“Wh y are we going here? Don't you live in the palace?” She asked him.
“I do.” He answered, still turned away from her. His long legs ate up the rotting stairs of an old house. Lita frowned. Despite the fact that she sympathized with the poorer people on Earth, she was use to the finer things. She couldn't help but feel a little hesitant about going in to this dilapidated house. Why was he here in the first place? He paused at the thick wooden door and knocked. Lita watched in curiosity as it opened. Warm yellow light spilled onto his earnest face.
“Why Nephrite! I'm so glad you came to join me tonight!” A plump woman said with a smile on her withered face. Come in! Nephrite picked up the dead boar he dropped on the steps and followed her in.
“Come on Lita.” He called to her. She was a little miffed that he called her by her first name. They weren't on first name basis yet. And she hated the feeling that rolled off her when he said it. Almost like her name was meant to be said by him. Bothered by her turn of thoughts, she went inside to join him.
“Ah you brought a friend!” The woman gushed and ran up to Lita. She was short, barely reaching Lita's shoulder. The radiance the small woman let off was wonderful. She felt totally relaxed in her presence. “I'm Maddy.” She cheerfully introduced herself. Lita smiled.
“Lit a.” She said. The woman laughed and ignored her outstretched hand. Instead, she hugged her and left Lita a bit winded.
“A pretty name. The name of the Princess of Jupiter. Do you by any chance know her?” She asked. Lita bit her tongue and gave Nephrite a quick glance. He was busy putting the boar on the table. But she noticed he was listening.
“ No. How do you know of her? No one really knows the first names of the Princesses of the Alliance.”
T he woman nodded. “Yes, but Nephrite told me all about her. How strong she was, how smart and pretty. My, I feel like I know her myself to tell you the truth.” The woman said in a rush. Lita lifted an interested brow and looked at Nephrite, seeing his cheeks pink a little.
“Was he?” She asked and sat down on a comfortable wooden bench in the living room.
“Yes. It's so good to hear him speak of her with so much enthusiasm. Nephrite can be picky when it comes to women.” She said.
“Aunt Maddy.” Nephrite protested, but his aunt waved off his warning with a fluttering hand.
“I don't know why he doesn't court you dear. You're so beautiful.” Maddy gushed. Lita smiled at the elderly woman, feeling butterflies take flight in her stomach.
“Wh y thank you.”
“ ;Because she's a pain in the ass Aunt. That's why.” Nephrite answered. “She almost made me lose your boar tonight.” Lita glared at him.
“It was an accident. I helped you get it back didn't I?” She shot back.
“Ah I just love the fire in you eyes!” Maddy exclaimed and giggled like a school girl. “You two would be just perfect together!” She exclaimed. Lita turned away and blushed. Like that would ever happen.
“Wha t are you cooking? It smells atrocious!” Nephrite exclaimed, wrinkling his nose at the fire where a medium sized cauldron pot hung. His Aunt rolled her eyes and went to join him.
“Potato es with garlic.” She answered breezily. Nephrite looked disgustedly at the pot's contents. He spooned a little out and tasted it. His face turned sour.
“It's gross. You boiled the potatoes for too long.” He grumbled. His aunt simply laughed.
“We ll you came too late to fix it.”
“ Because of someone.” He gave Lita a pointed look and she glared right back. How many times was she going to have to apologize? She stood up and pushed him out of the way.
“I'll fix it you big cry baby.” She grumbled and turned to Maddy. “Where do you keep your spices?” She asked. Maddy scurried to a small cabinet and opened the door. Lita studied her spices, and picked a couple out. She put a little of this in and a little of that.
“You'r e just going to make it worse.” Nephrite grumbled. Lita ignored him and continued to add spices. After a while, she declared that dinner was fixed.
“Ah I can't wait to taste it!” Maddy exclaimed and went to fetch some bowels and utensils. Lita sat down, across from Nephrite, and dipped her spoon in the soup. Nephrite eyed her.
“Go ahead, taste it. If you survive after the first bit, then I'll eat it.” Nephrite clasped his hands together and made a big scene of waiting. Lita resisted the urge to stick out her tongue at him. She spooned a big helping into her mouth. After she chewed slowly, she dipped her spoon back into her soup.
“I'm such a good cook.” She murmured. Maddy laughed gleefully and gladly ate her food. Nephrite ate as well, not saying anything about how good it tasted, but Lita knew. Lita and Nephrite didn't say anything to each other, by Maddy filled in for their lack of talk.After dinner, they left for the palace. He escorted her to an empty room.
“If you need anything, I'll be right across the hall.” He said with a yawn.
“Is that an invitation?” She asked slyly.
“Only if you want it to be.” He shot back and left her alone. Lita sighed and began undoing the buttons of her dress. The day began wearing into her and she fought with the strings of her corset, but they were unwilling to loosen. Sighing, Lita plopped down on the bed. There was no way she could sleep with this thing on. Her eyes riveted to the door. Well, he said if I needed anything...
She opened the door and stepped out into the dark hallway. Nephrite's door loomed in front of her, beckoning her closer. She knocked before she even knew what she was doing. She heard grumbling and shuffling, and soon, his door was whipped open. Her mouth went dry all of the sudden. He was wearing nothing except his undergarments. His well toned chest hovered in front of her.
“Would you help me with this?” She asked and turned around, pointing to her corset strings.
“Wh at?” She heard surprise in his voice.
“You said if I needed anything I should come to you. Well, I need help with this.” She waited patiently; aware of the position she put him in. It was only seconds before she started feeling the gentle tugs of her dress. His hands moved swiftly, expertly to loosen the strings and he was finished in seconds.
“Th at was fast.” She began and gave him a sultry look over her shoulder. “Your hands must work magic.” She purred, loving the darkness in his eyes. She left him without another word. It was fun to flirt with him. Sliding into bed, she snuggled up to her pillow. She had to be bright and fresh tomorrow morning to return home before her parents caught her. Dark blue eyes danced in her dreams.
The next morning, someone rudely shook her awake. She tried to slap them away, but the inconsiderate person just grabbed her wrists and pulled her to sitting position. Her sleepy eyes blinked, trying to wake.
“Go away!” She moaned and kicked out her legs. “Serenity, why do you have to wake up so early?”
R 20;Lita, wake up, it me.”
Lita forced her eyes open. “Nephrite? What are you doing in my room?” He chuckled. When she heard that she bolted up.
“What time it?” She cried and scrambled out of bed. He pulled her back down.
“Don't worry, we have plenty of time.” He assured her. “Get dressed, we'll head out as soon as possible. Lita nodded and shooed him out. She grabbed her green dress and pulled it on. Without her corset, it clung to her like a second skin, but she didn't notice. When she was finished, she met Nephrite outside. He had a small cup with him and he handed it to her. She gazed into the brew and frowned.
“Wh at is it?” She asked, smelling it. It was a bitter-sweet smell.
“It's called coffee. Only the Palace has it. The bean is rather rare and from an exotic place. But it perks you up rather well. It'll give you enough energy to transport back.”
She took a sip and then spit it out all over him. “Ahh, disgusting!” She cried out.
“Damn it Lita, look what you did!” He shot at her a frustrated look.
“Well, it's gross!” She protested, trying to hold in her laughter. He pulled the cup back under her mouth.
“Drin k it.” He ordered. Grumbling about being ordered about, she took a deep breath and held it, downing the bitter brew. He took the cup from her as soon as she was finished and patted her on the shoulder.
“G ood girl. Now lets get going.”
He was right. An unknown energy made her skip all the way to the forest.
“Tha nk you Nephrite for taking me here. You're so nice. Do people always tell you you're nice? They should. I think that if everyone says something nice to one another each day. It would make the day brighter. I think that's going to be a new goal for me. To say thank you. Thank you trees! Thank you sky! Thank you air. Thank you--hey!” Nephrite put a hand over her mouth.
“Okay , I think nature gets it. Here you are.” He said. Lita giggled and summoned her power. At the last minute, before she shot into the air, she leaned in quickly and gave him a hard kiss on the mouth.
“Than k you Nephrite! You're so handsome!” She called out and then she was home.
~*END FLASHBACK*~
Lita took a sip of her sweetened coffee and smiled. After she had kissed him and finally realized what she had done, it was like a new beginning for her. He never objected, nor mentioned that kiss. Despite the fact she was wired, she meant that kiss and she never told him. As she watched him stir the contents in the pan, she wondered if she would ever tell him.