Aurora Eos Rose 4/13/01 http://heavensdawn.org/ auroraeosrose@hotmail.com Redemption: Part 1 Chapter 04 - Five Paths to Power Tory reached for the woman's offered hand. Rita pulled Tory to her feet. "I haven't seen you in forever, Rita." Tory pulled the older woman into a tight hug. Rita held Tory for a long moment, the tears spilling from her eyes. Then Rita moved back a bit, wiping the tears away. "The last time I saw you Tory, you were seven years old getting on a ship that would take you to the moon. You were so excited, your eyes were glowing, and you refused to wear a dress. Your mother was so angry. My goddess, you've grown up well." Rita took a long look up and down Tory's slender form. "You look just like your mother." Tory swallowed back the sob lodged in her throat. She examined Rita for a long moment. "You look different than I remember. Your hair is shorter, not as red." Rita smiled sadly. "In these times, anyone connected to the royal families in any way has to hide. I changed my looks a bit, so I'm simply another woman from Jupiter." Tory glanced around the small landing area. The people around them had ignored the tender greeting, and were hauling supplies out of the shuttle. Tory could see the tunnel leading from the landing area to the central structure. Outside there were numerous small figures in environmental suits working. Tory had never seen the mining operations that were prevalent on the gas giants. "Nice place you have here, Rita." Tory smiled brightly. Rita turned around and yelled at two workers who had almost dropped a box, and then returned her attention to Tory. "It's not as cushy a job as Captain of the Royal Guard of Jupiter, but it works. Less stress, more boneheads and paperwork. I have enough people who bow and stoop and follow my every order." Rita smacked a passing boy over the head. "I saw that, keep your hands out of the supplies." Tory suppressed a smile. She glanced around the loading area again. Most of the workers were fairly young. The war had decimated almost an entire generation. Tory felt curiosity rising inside. The colony was quite large. Tory noticed a few children peeping down at the landing area. Her eyes narrowed a bit. Children on a mining colony? She took a second look at the structure. The outgoing barge area was empty. Even Tory knew most mining colonies had dozens of barges constantly shipping mined goods to the surface. "So you run a mining colony now? You have some awfully young workers." Rita's eyes narrowed for a moment. Then she smiled. "You always were a quick one. Come with me, I have something I want to show you." Rita headed for the exit, Tory close behind. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Cassie felt her eyelids drifting shut again. The library was rather dim, and warm. She felt like a thousand pounds of lead were lying on her eyelids. She hadn't found anything in the books. They talked of wars and peace meetings, births and deaths. But nothing of the origins of the senshi. Cassie glanced over at her grandfather. He was sound asleep, curled up on an old leather chair, snoring loudly. She sighed. She shoved the book in her hand back on the shelf and pulled down the next one. Book after book of history, yet nothing about the time when the Golden Kingdom was formed. The wars afterward were described in great detail, after that the founding of the Silver Millennium. Cassie's eyes narrowed. The only other time period not described were the wars that occurred just before the birth of Princess Serenity. Two time periods that weren't witnessed through brutally boring lists of dates and occurrences. Cassie flipped through the latest find, History of Mars, and groaned. Nothing. She collapsed back on the chair, letting the ancient book fall to the floor. She gazed up at the bookshelf in front of her. It stretched almost to the ceiling, and was almost as long as the great hall on the moon, and there were dozens of similar shelves, all stuffed with books. She groaned loudly. This was an impossible task. Her eyes fell shut slowly. She just needed a bit of rest, and then she'd get back to work. She was standing in fire. The flames surrounded her, reaching toward her like puppies desperate for affection. They caressed her skin gently, flowing like water over her body. Cassie closed her eyes, the sensation too wonderful for words. Then the flames entered her, moving through her as though she were nothing but air. She could hear them within her, speaking with a million voices, and yet only one soul. She heard them, and yet didn't understand. Then a vision formed from the dancing fire. A book, bound in red. And it was resting on top of a tall shelf. The fire swirled around itself then, forming a blazing ball. It dove into her body, coming to rest inside her heart. Cassie could feel the heat and the power. She sat up quickly, sweat soaking her brow. Cassie lifted a hand to her chest, still expecting to feel the fire inside, but all that she felt was her heartbeat. Then she stood up quickly and climbed the huge ladder to the very top of the bookshelves. She swung over the edge, so she was sitting on top of the huge shelf. She had to stay hunched over to keep from smacking her head on the ceiling. Her eyes scanned the shelves. They stopped suddenly, and Cassie took off at a run, leaping from bookshelf to bookshelf. The book was enormous, bound in red leather, with golden lettering embossed. Cassie sat down. She moved one shaking hand forward and traced the lettering. It was written in the ancient language. Not the old language of Mars that graced the temples, but that spoken during the high point of the Golden Kingdom. Cassie groaned. She would need her grandfather to read it. She looked briefly over the edge of the bookshelves, and realized that there was no way to get down. Cassie sighed loudly, then threw back her head and screamed. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Nestor pounded loudly on the doors. Endymion was inside there, alone. Nestor's hands were sore and several knuckles were bleeding. He stopped and slumped against the wood. His eyes were sore. Elysian was simply too bright. Light flooded everything, unlike the cold, dark place Nestor had called home for many years. He lifted his face upward. He couldn't even see the stars. He was cut off with a squadron of bored soldiers, and Endymion was alone and unprotected. "No harm shall come to the master of Elysian." The voice was soft, delicate, and decidedly feminine. Nestor stood quickly, searching for the speaker. He held his staff tightly, knuckles turning white. "Who's there? Show yourself." A gentle laugh rippled through the air. A woman appeared directly in front of Nestor. He took a hurried step back, mouth hanging wide open. The woman was tall and slender, dressed in a simple white gown. Her hair and eyes were white as well, and she glowed with a gentle light. And Nestor could see right through her. "Always demanding, Prince Nestor. Prince Endymion must face this challenge alone. No harm will come to him." The woman smiled gently. Nestor took a step forward. "Who are you, and where is Endymion." The woman sighed. "I am a shrine maiden. My sister and I have tended this shrine since the beginning of time. You need not fear us. Endymion will return when he has accomplished what he came to find." The woman flickered and disappeared. Nestor felt like screaming. Instead he ordered the shaken soldiers to set up camp and maintained a vigil just beyond the great doors. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Endymion stared for a moment at the huge doors. They were now tightly shut. He wouldn't be leaving that way. He turned to look at the hallway in front of him. The entire structure seemed to be coated on the inside with crystal. It was like walking inside a huge diamond. Endymion moved forward slowly. His feet echoed against the marble floors. There was no other sound. The silence wasn't ominous, more peaceful than anything else. Endymion reached the end of the hall and his eyes narrowed. There had been no doors, no stairs, and no exits of any kind. Just a long, empty hall with a ceiling that stretched into infinity. "Welcome, Prince Endymion." He spun around quickly. A woman with white hair and eyes floated a bit off the floor. She rested her blank gaze on his face. Endymion felt power radiating from her. "I see you have finally come to Elysian. Now is the time to meet your destiny. I have something to show you." The woman turned, waving a hand. A winding staircase grew from the crystal walls. Endymion watched, amazed. The crystal was responding to the woman's commands. She began to float upwards. Endymion started up the staircase. He rested his hand against the crystal walls, admiring the rich golden color. The crystal pulsed and glowed under his hand. The room grew brighter. The stairs ended at a crystal door. The woman stopped and turned to face Endymion. "Welcome to your future, prince." She waved a hand and the door dissolved. Endymion moved forwards slowly, a bit nervous. The door led to a huge crystal chamber. There were bodies everywhere. Dried blood stained the floors, and the bodies were in various stages of decomposition. "Who are these people?" Endymion didn't ask, he demanded. The woman's eyes grew sad. "They are the inhabitants of Elysian, murdered by a woman in a single hour." Endymion felt bile rise in his throat. Every inhabitant of Elysian had been slain in a brutal bloodbath. There were old men and women lying next to infants. Endymion moved into the room. He noticed a door propped open on the far side. His curiosity overrode his disgust. The walk over the bodies was long and slow. Endymion ducked under the low doorframe. Lying on a marble slab was a white haired man, arms crossed on his chest. "Father." Endymion felt his knees give way. His father. If Helios was here, that meant the murderer…Endymion stood quietly, turning to face the woman standing at the doorway. "My mother did this." The woman nodded. "She was in a rage, convinced that Helios could halt Selene's plans. In her desperation and rage she stole your father's power. She was filled with bloodlust, and slaughtered the other inhabitants simply for pleasure." The woman's eyes filled with tears. Endymion turned away. "I'm sorry." His voice was soft. The woman laughed bitterly. "You are not responsible for her actions, young man, but you may have to pay the consequences. I will return." She disappeared in a shimmer of light. The door slammed shut, trapping Endymion in the small room. And another voice filled the air. "I see you have finally come, Prince Endymion." Endy turned around. Hovering behind his father's body was a spirit dressed all in white, wings spread. "Father." *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Sere had the urge to cry. Chad had locked her in a tiny room and refused to feed her. And he kept asking stupid questions. "Tell me your name." Sere pressed her lips together. Chad stood up and ran a hand through his shaggy brown hair. Sere resisted the urge to laugh. He was very frustrated with her silence. "Where are you from?" Sere gave him a blank look. She was rather enjoying playing the dumb blonde. Chad moved closer and gripped her arms, shaking her lightly. Sere grimaced. Of course, a side effect was that the man was really starting to get mad. "Start answering my questions or I'll send you to the dungeons, without food or water." Sere's face fell. She better start giving him some kind of answers. "All right, all right. My name is Bunny … Bunny Moon." He shook her again. "I'm supposed to believe that?" Sere knew some convincing was in order. She quickly pasted on her forlorn little girl look. "I'm telling the truth. I was an orphan, my mother was a prostitute. She died giving birth to me, and left me that ridiculous name." Sere let the tears flow to her eyes. "Please, I'm telling the truth. The princess gave me a chance for a new life as a guard. But I'm not very good at anything I try." Chad pulled away. He was disgusted with his own softness. The girl's tears and sincere expression were affecting his ability to judge the truth. "And where are you from? This color hair isn't native to Mars." He ran a hand over Sere's loose hair. She shuddered a bit. "It's dyed. I was raised by the owner of a brothel, and was set to join the trade, but the princess saved me." Sere suppressed a chuckle. She was better at this playacting then she thought. Chad stared at the girl thoughtfully. "Very well. Then I suppose you'd like your natural hair color back." Sere suppressed another giggle. The dummy was a sucker for a pretty face. She sniffed back tears and wiped her eyes. "You'd do that for me? I'd love to look in the mirror and see myself again." Sere gushed the words and batted her eyes a bit, biting her tongue at the expression on Chad's face. He tried so hard to be mean and stern, but was just too softhearted. "Very well, I'll arrange it immediately. Then I must send a message to the moon." Sere's face paled. Well, as long as she kept playing the part, she'd survive. Chad left the room. Sere slumped back in her hard metal chair and waited. "Hurry up, Cassie, or I'll be in over my head here." *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Chad stared at the reply from the moon. He was to send the prisoner. He groaned and ran a hand over his face. He was sure the little thing was lying. She didn't have the skin tone of a Martian, and her hair didn't have any sign of coloration. However, her tears had been very real. Perhaps her mother had been from off planet. That wasn't unheard of for prostitutes. Chad sighed loudly and sent a reply. He had more important things to worry about, like crushing the Martian resistance. If the moon wanted some little guard, they could have her, whether she wanted her hair black or silver. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Aria stared at the chains. She'd never forgive him for this. He was a bastard. No matter how much her heart pulled toward him, no matter how her body responded to his touch, he was just a coldhearted bastard. Aria glared at Athan's back. He held the end of a golden chain in one hand. It was linked to a collar on her neck. Her hands and legs were chained together, with a runner linking the two sets to the collar. She hissed through her teeth. He was leading her around like a dog. "I hate you, you murdering, raping bastard." They were the first words she'd said since they'd arrived at the palace. He'd thrown her into the arms of a burly guard and ordered chains brought. Aria had bit, kicked, and fought as hard as she could, but they had still managed to get the chains on her. Athan didn't pay any attention to her comment. Aria growled low in her throat. He continued to move through the hall; Aria forced to follow like a dog. Her temper flared. She used both hands to grasp the leading chain and yanked. The motion surprised Athan. The chain flew from his hand. Aria draped the chain around her neck and tried to run. The chains were heavy, and only let her take small steps. Aria pushed herself forward, but someone in chains could easily be caught. Athan slammed her to the ground. Aria felt the tears pouring from her eyes. "I hate you." She felt a hand stroking her hair, and tried to pull away, but Athan's body held her in place. "I know, I know." That was all he said. Aria struggled a bit harder. "Get off of me, you bastard. Murderer, demon spawn, evil incarnate." She spit the words through her teeth. Athan's patience wore off. "You have a nasty mouth, you little bitch." He grabbed onto her hair and jerked her to her feet. Aria's eyes filled with tears of pain. "I think you and I need to have a talk, and then we'll discuss who is the murderering bastard." Athan grabbed Aria around the waist and dumped her over his shoulder. She kicked and screamed, but the chains kept her from fighting back. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Diane's voice cracked on the yell, the pain returning viciously. She slammed her eyes shut, determined to keep the tears back. "Don't speak, you'll make it hurt more." Diane's eyes snapped open and she glared at the offending man. "I wouldn't hurt at all if you'd not been so damn ruthless." Diane whispered the words, but there was still a great deal of heat and anger behind them. Zavier smiled. "You're quite brave for a captive, my little nymph." Diane jerked away from him. Zavier's eyes narrowed. "I'd be careful. You staying alive depends on my good will." Diane snorted loudly. "You can't kill me. You need me for something, I can see it in your eyes." Zavier stood up quickly. The girl was far too astute. And she seemed to be feeling much better. He had seen the terror in her eyes when she woke up. Zavier suppressed a surge of anger. He didn't want her frightened. He didn't know what he wanted from her. "You are correct, as usual Princess Dianara. I'm most impressed." Diane's eyes narrowed. "Only my mother called me that. You may address me as your highness or Diane." Zavier felt a smile creeping over his face. "Very well, sweet Diane. I shall return shortly. There are guards at every window and door. Don't try anything stupid." Diane felt her temper rising, but squashed it with cool logic. Now wasn't the time to antagonize the man. Diane would have a better chance at killing him if she bided her time. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Jason moved quickly into the palace, his heart still racing. He had felt her, as if she had been standing next to him. And he knew where she was. Jason moved through the hallways with a quick, steady stride. Zavier appeared from a side room, but stopped suddenly at the look on Jason's face. "She's on Mars." Zavier just stood for a moment, his brow furrowed in confusion. "Who's on Mars?" Jason began to pace across the plush rug. "One of the Princesses." Zavier shot Jason a sarcastic glance. "Is this something a drunk man in a bar told you?" Jason stopped suddenly. He grabbed the front of Zavier's clothing and picked the slender man up off the floor. "I felt her. It was as if she were sitting next to me…no, like she was inside me. She was right there." Zavier stared into Jason's aqua eyes. They shone with truth. Zavier's mouth opened in surprise. "How, why did you, how could this happen?" Jason let go. Zavier crumpled to the ground. "I really don't know. I've never felt anything like it." Jason pressed his eyes shut. "It felt like I was surrounded by fire, and then it was like a link opened." He opened his eyes again, his gaze burning into Zavier. "I can still feel her. I know where she is." Zavier nodded. "We won't be able to contact Endymion until they leave the area of the sun, but Athan's at the Silver Palace. I'll tell him you're leaving." "Immediately." Jason started off down the hall towards the spaceport. Zavier frowned a bit. Now he'd have to find the escaped girl all alone. He quietly opened the door and looked in on the princess, Diane, he corrected himself. She was asleep again, her face more peaceful than before. Zavier shut the door. A manhunt might just take his mind off the girl. And there was a coronation to plan. Zavier moved down the hall towards the library. There was a lot to do. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Sere raised a shaking hand to her new hairstyle. She looked much different. Her hair was black, pitch black. The color stood out sharply against her pale skin and cornflower blue eyes. She turned to face the mirror and almost laughed. Her hair was chopped at the shoulder, and she looked remarkably like Hotaru. Sere's smile faded. Just thinking about the outers made her heart heavy. Michiru had taught Sere and Aria how to put on make-up. Haruka had given lessons on how to take out an overzealous boyfriend. Hotaru had always been there to listen and give advice, and Setsuna treated them all like her children. Sere wiped her eyes. The door swung open sharply. Five burly guards entered the room. Sere backed into the corner, a bit frightened by their solemn faces. Chad entered last, he seemed distracted. "I've been ordered to send you to the moon. There you'll be presented to Endymion as a gift from the Martian people. I'm sure with your past that you'll find some way to please him." Every ounce of color left Sere's face. She stood in shock for a moment, not reacting even when Chad turned to leave. Then she came alive. "Wait! I told you what you wanted, everything you wanted. Please, let me stay here, you can't do this to me." Sere threw herself forward, grabbing the edge of the man's cloak. He sent her a blistering look. "But you didn't tell me the truth, did you little Bunny?" He wrenched the cloak from her grasp. "Chain her." Sere kicked, screamed and howled, but five against one meant she was soon chained and being led away. Tears fell thick and heavy, soaking the heavy iron. "How will you find me now, Cassie?" Sere concentrated on putting one foot in front of the other as they led her to the spaceport. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* "Cassie!" Her grandfather came racing around the edge of the bookshelves, stopping suddenly. Cassie stopped screaming and smiled down sweetly. "Dammit Cassie, you took ten years off my life." She continued to smile. "What in the world are you doing up there and why are you grinning like a cat who caught the mouse?" Cassie simply stared down, the mysterious smile on her face. Her grandfather threw his hands in the air. "Well, at least get down here so I don't have to keep twisting my neck." "That's why I screamed, I need a ladder." Her grandfather's eyebrows lifted in surprise. "Well, how did you get up there? Just come down the same way." Cassie's smile grew bigger. "I'd love to grandpa, but I can't jump over the gaps with this." She held up the book. Her grandfather's jaw dropped. "Where did you find that?" Cassie carefully set the book back down. "That thing weighs a ton, grandpa. I had this dream. There was this fire, and the fire told me where the book was hidden." Cassie shrugged. "Can I have a ladder now? It's kind of a long way down." He smiled and headed around the corner. It took almost ten minutes to wrestle the book and Cassie down the ladder, and another five to locate a desk so they had a place to set the huge volume. Her grandfather leaned close. Cassie waited patiently for him to begin reading. "The origins of the senshi, and the golden kingdom, written by Artemis, first keeper of the royal libraries." Cassie felt a shiver go up her spine. She glanced at the magnificent picture, of a tall handsome man with long white hair and piercing blue eyes. He reminded her vaguely of one of the earth princes, except for the crescent moon in the middle of his forehead. "Stop leaning in my light, Cassie." Cassie moved to the other side of the table, and the pages began to turn. Cassie listened to her grandfathers voice tell a magnificent story, of when gods roamed the cosmos. There were tales of betrayal, lust, war, and love. Cassie became absorbed in the tales, laughing at Hermes and his clever tricks, weeping in sorrow at the plight of Echo, mouth open in shock at the knowledge that the philandering Ares was a female. Cassie was drawn miles away, staring at the brilliant illustrations as though they would come alive and speak to her. And the story continued. The gods were immortal, but tired of their existence. They chose hunks of rock to call their own, imbuing their powers in the planet, and setting up guardians to protect the full extent of the powers. And then the gods became human. But their souls remained immortal, reincarnating in many forms and faces. The book closed slowly, the great story at an end. Cassie sat back in her chair, eyes glowing. The story had been beautiful, but to find legend presented as history complete with dates and intimate details was something she had never hoped to discover, and yet there was the proof. History was Legend, written for the universe to read. Gods had once existed. Their powers were locked away. And only those who possessed the immortal soul of a god could use the powers. Cassie began to put two and two together. If only those who carried part of a god's soul could carry that power…Cassie passed out at the realization of what and who she was. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* "Endymion, I have waited a very long time for you to come to me." Endymion backed up a few steps, his legs wobbly and unable to support his body. He leaned against the crystal wall. "You're dead." The apparition smiled gently. "Yes, I'm dead. Your mother murdered me. She stole what I would not give her freely. The children of earth have always sought after that which is forbidden to them. But you my son are born of earth and sun. The gift of my power was given to you at your mother's death. My powers have found rest in you. Now you must awaken those powers, become a soldier, a warrior, protector and ruler. This land is empty, barren. You can restore Elysian. But you must first banish the dark shadow that lies over you. Listen, Endymion. Listen to your heart." The figure slowly faded from view. The body in front of Endymion began to glow. The light penetrated the room, boring into Endymion with fierceness he didn't expect. And then the light dimmed. All that was left of the body was a golden ring with a fat diamond in the center. Endymion peered into the diamond, surprised to see the symbol of Sol floating within. Beside the ring lay a brilliant golden crystal. Endymion took several hesitant steps forward. He picked up the ring. It was surprisingly heavy, and felt cool in his grasp. He slid it on the middle finger of his right hand, amazed at how perfectly it fit. Then he reached for the crystal glimmering on the slab where his father's body had rested. The moment his fingers closed over the gem, Endymion realized that this was what his mother had searched for all the years she swept the galaxy. He felt the power tingling through his entire body. He was alive, the center of life, the universe. He was a god. And then the crystal's glow disappeared, and the powerful feeling faded away. Endymion tucked the crystal into a pocket on the inside flap of his gray uniform. Then he turned to leave. The woman was waiting outside the door. The bodies had disappeared from the room. Endymion blinked rapidly for a moment. "They were sworn to serve your father, so their souls could not journey on until his left for the next plane. Now they are at peace, and so is Helios." A second woman appeared beside the first. "Your friend outside is growing impatient. You must finish what you have come here to accomplish, Prince Endymion. Take up the mantle of a senshi, become the warrior you were meant to be." Endymion stared at the two for a long moment. "What do you mean?" The two glanced at each other and smiled. "Call upon the power of the sun, the power of Sol." Endymion's brow furrowed. "I'm afraid I don't understand." The woman on the right stepped forward. "The ring you wear harbors great power. You must simply call upon it." The second moved closer as well. "Hold it above your head, and call on the power of Sol." Endymion raised his hand above his head. "All though I feel utterly foolish, I call upon the power of Sol." Nothing happened. Endymion raised one eyebrow as the two women began giggling. "No, no, you try too hard. Sol Power, that is all you need." Endymion glared at the offending spirits. "If you weren't already dead, I believe I'd kill you." He raised his arm a second time. "Sol Power." *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Sere fell to the ground. Some kind of power was ramming into her, as though someone were stuffing her like a suitcase, sitting on the top to close the latches. She couldn't breath, couldn't move. She was going to explode. The power burst through her body, like a bomb exploding. And then she felt him. Someone was there, with her, in that vortex of power. Another soul, reaching out for her. Sere reached back across the void. They met, joined, and Sere felt overwhelmed by intense darkness, shadow trying to penetrate her soul. She screamed in pain at the invasion. She knew the presence was male, one of the Princes, and they seemed to be near the sun. The black figure began trying to yank her across the distance. Sere shuddered, resisting with everything she had. She wouldn't let that shadow steal who she was. A guard jerked her upright, trying to force her forward. Her body was utterly limp. And then her stomach emptied its contents onto the nearest guard. Just when Sere thought she would die from the struggle, the energy receded, and she was left drained, empty. She glanced down at the crystal, on a chain around her neck. It was glowing vibrantly. Sere glanced down at her now filthy body and groaned. At least her trip would be delayed a bit. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Endymion was surrounded by warmth, and light. And then there was another light, even brighter than the power penetrating his body. He reached out for the light. They met in an explosion of energy. Endy could feel the innocence, the goodness spilling from the light. The feeling was better than any drug. He grasped at the light, desperate for more. Then he realized that the light was a person, a woman. Princess Serenity. Endymion reached for her desperately, determined to pull her to him. She resisted the invasion, blocking his access to the warmth of her soul. Endymion poured more energy into the task. And then the power drained away. Endymion felt like stomping his foot in frustration, like a child. He had been so close. But that meant the princess was still in the solar system, and had seemed to be fairly close. Endymion stared down at his body. He was dressed in a brilliant white tuxedo, a mask on his face, a gold lined cape thrown over one shoulder. He stood for a moment, staring. "A white tuxedo?" The voice was oozing displeasure. "Would you have preferred a tiny sailor suit like female senshi wear?" The voice was shaking with laughter. Endymion sighed loudly. "Very well, you've made your point." Endymion looked down at his gloved hands. He shrugged a bit; at least the tuxedo wasn't blue. "I should return. Nestor will be brooding. How do I transform back?" The girls smiled. "Simply twist the ring on your finger." Endymion nodded and performed the simple procedure. There was a flash, and he stood in his uniform once more. "Thank you ladies." The two clasped each other's hands, and spoke in unison. "You will return, Endymion. Not for a time, but you will return, and we shall guide you on the path to the eternal." The wispy forms dissolved into nothingness. Endymion rubbed a hand across his forehead. There was much he needed to accomplish. And he would have Serenity. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Tory stared at the huge complex. "Your workers are very talented." Rita smiled broadly. "They had no choice, either accomplish the impossible, or die as slaves to earth." Tory shook her head again. The underside of the floating mining colony had been turned into a huge military installation. There were ships being outfitted with guns and bombs, laser cannons and such. There was a military academy bursting with recruits, and there were people working everywhere. "I wouldn't believe it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes. You've accomplished amazing feats here, Rita." Tory continued to stare at the small army. Her heart swelled. If the resistance movement in the galaxy was so well organized and equipped, there might a chance yet. They could win. "Welcome to Project Freedom. We have bases on all the gas giants, an underground movement on Venus and Mars, and spies on Pluto and Mercury. The moon is far too close to earth, and too well guarded for any effective movement. The earth is the central hub for the enemy's army. That will be the place to strike when the time comes. We will return the Silver Millennium. The earth cannot be allowed to enslave the solar system." Rita's eyes were bright, and her jaw jutted forward. Tory felt something blossom inside. It was hope. "And who coordinates all the resistance movements for the solar system?" Rita smiled sadly. "Andrew did. But he, he's been taken by the earth. The last we knew he was being held on earth." Tory resisted the urge to flop on the floor and squeal in anger. Andrew had been the girl's valet, butler, and fighting instructor on the moon. The five had adored him. Tory looked up at Rita's sad face. Tory had suspected there was a relationship between the two, at least through the letters Aria and Sere managed to steal. Rita was still staring down at her hands. Tory knew that look of despair. The earth was not known for leniency to prisoners. "Who runs everything now?" Rita's chin snapped upward. "I do. I moved everything when Andrew was taken, changed my looks, changed the main base to a different planet. Every spy was moved. Even if Andrew gave up information, or turned to the earth's side, he wouldn't be of any help at this point." Tory smiled broadly. "I'm impressed, Rita. You did a great job. I always knew you meant to be a leader." Rita's eyes filled with tears for a moment, then cleared. She turned to Tory. "What can we do for you? You girls obviously seem to be in trouble. Last our spies knew, two of you were here on Uranus and two were on Mars. I'm assuming the last one is prisoner, probably on the moon if we have no news. Last we knew one of the princesses here had been captured." Tory cleared her throat. "You have good spies. Yes, Aria's on the Moon. I didn't know what had happened to Cassie and Usa, I'm glad they're all right. But that bastard took Diane. Is there any chance I can save her?" Rita's eyes dimmed. "If you mean the Princess of Mercury, I'm sorry. I won't even allow you to attempt a rescue. In fact, I'm going to demand that you stay here until the two Princes have left the planet. Then we'll sneak you to wherever you need to go." Tory's eyes narrowed and her face flushed red. "Are you cowards then? Diane needs my help. I will not abandon her." Rita spun back to face Tory. She took a step backward, the anger on Rita's face enough to make Tory shake. "Are you willing to sacrifice the entire Project Freedom for one little girl? I would love to go charging in to rescue Andrew, but there is much more at stake here than one person's life. This is about the survival of the Silver Millennium." Rita turned around quickly. "Something happened just recently on Mars. We don't have any information yet." Tory felt a chill go up her spine. Cassie and Sere were on Mars. If anything were to happen to Sere. Rita continued. "There's going to be a coronation for Zavier soon, and then the new King will probably crack down. I've already changed the flight path of this colony to take us nearer to the core. It's dangerous, but not as dangerous as letting Zavier find this place. I'm sorry Tory, but there is no way to save the princess now." Tory's eyes filled with tears. "She's my best friend, Rita. How can I just leave her?" Rita laid a hand on Tory's shoulder. "There will come a day when you can get her back. You simply have to wait for the right moment." Tory nodded slowly and wiped the tears from her eyes. "That's my girl. Now, we need you here, now. I have a new group of recruits. I want you to train them in hand to hand. You were the best I've ever trained, even at seven. I'll continue your lessons in the evening, and during the day you'll teach the recruits. Tory, I really need your help. In three weeks we want to stage a coup on Jupiter. It has the strongest resistance movement, and the lowest earth presence. If we can take even one planet back, we have a fighting chance. I want you to lead that coup." Tory's eyes grew big. "You want me to lead them?" Rita nodded slowly. "You are their true ruler, little rose." Tory flinched. Her mother had called her that. Rita turned back to the view port. "I didn't expect to have the heir to the throne of Jupiter dumped in my lap." Rita rubbed a hand over her brow. "You're tired, aren't you?" Tory turned and leaned back against the wall. "I've been helping organize this since the first wave of the invasion hit Pluto, and I haven't had a lot of help since they took Andrew." Tory stared at a spot on the far wall for several long moments. Right now she could be of use here, even if she couldn't directly protect Diane or Sere. Tory took the planner from Rita's hand. "You have someone to lean on now. I'm stuck here for a while, and I need to get my mind off of Diane. Go get some sleep, I'll get the rest of this list done." Rita smiled sadly. "You were sent by the gods, Tory." The woman turned and headed down the long hall. Tory looked over the list and gritted her teeth. She'd get both Diane and Andrew back somehow, she'd just bide her time. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Athan threw Aria onto the bed. He turned away and started pacing, periodically running a hand through his long hair. Aria could fell the heat and anger radiating off him. She was nervous. He was very unpredictable when angry. He stopped, and moved to the bed. One long arm went on either side of Aria's body, and his gaze sent her scrabbling backward across the bed. "If you hadn't noticed, Mistress Aria, I have a very bad temper. It isn't wise to make me lose that temper, and most people couldn't hope to accomplish the feat. But you seem to have the singular ability to make me extremely angry." The words were whispered quietly, but his voice shook with anger. He pushed against the bed and stood up straight. Then he resumed pacing. "The first time I truly lost my temper I was ten years old. I was training with Hotaru and another little boy, who was my best friend at the time." Aria's eyes grew wide at the mention of Hotaru's name. She hadn't realized Athan remembered life on Saturn. For some reason she'd assumed the Princes became different men after their conversion by Metallia. "The boy beat me, and accidentally sliced open a cut along my thigh. I came at him, full of anger. Hotaru managed to restrain me, but I took the boy's eye out." Aria shivered. Even at ten Athan had possessed a ruthless streak. He stopped pacing and looked at Aria again. His eyes seemed haunted. "The second time I lost my temper, I was twelve. I was outside playing, and a group of Metallia's monsters attacked. I took down fifteen before they finally subdued me." Aria's eyes grew very wide. For a boy to hold his own against Metallia's monsters would have been an amazing feat. "But if…" "Shut up." Athan slapped a hand over Aria's mouth. She flinched, his tone and the fire in his eyes enough to bury her curiosity. "The third time I was fifteen, and training under Metallia. I killed my best friend, and Endymion received a nice scar on his side. I sliced the prince when he tried to stop me from dismembering the dead body." Aria shivered. There was a great deal of pain under that confession, enough to make Aria's eyes soften in sympathy. Athan rubbed his thumb over her lips. "The only other time I lost my temper, you know what happened." Aria felt the terror of the night before rise. She tried to jerk away, but one strong hand on the back of her neck stopped her from moving. Her eyes moved unconsciously to Athan's dark eyes, and moved down to his strong chin, unable to keep the gaze. Athan stared at her mouth for several long moments. Aria felt warmth growing in her stomach. She fought back the only way she could, with more anger. "You're still a heartless, murdering, raping bastard. You still had a choice every time. You decided to do those things." Her voice rose with each word, cresting on the last. Athan's eyes grew hard. He grabbed a handful of her hair and jerked her head backwards, his eyes boring into hers. "You're the one who knows nothing, little girl. I'm a murderer? At least all of my victims were full-grown and could fight back. Your mother is the true murderer." Aria's eyes were filled with puzzlement. Where was Athan going his accusation? "What are you talking about?" The innocence in her voice made Athan growl low in his throat. He jerked hard on her hair, bringing tears to her eyes. "Don't lie to me, you little bitch. Your mother murdered my parents, and my baby sister, and then she tried to murder me. I was five years old." His voice broke on the last word, anger mixed with such sadness that Aria almost wanted to hold him close and comfort him. But the person he was naming as the murderer…Aria's eyes grew round with surprise, and then they narrowed in anger. "You're lying. My mother would never hurt an innocent. She was a sailor senshi, trained to bring peace and justice." Aria screamed the words. Athan hissed his reply. "Your mother would do anything for her precious Selene, even murder innocents. How unsurprising that no one knows the truth. Why would Selene and her precious inner senshi admit to their crime?" His voice was laced with bitterness. He stared at the anger in Aria's eyes. He was disgusted. What had made him think that Aria would listen, that she would believe him over the lies she'd been fed her entire life, that she'd understand. He felt a wave of self-loathing. She was his greatest weakness. He released her and headed for the door. "You can stay in here for the rest of the day. Tomorrow I expect you to be better behaved." He turned back, his eyes almost sad. "When I look at you, I see her, you'd sacrifice anything for duty, even your soul." Aria sat for a long moment, the words battering at her heart. "He's lying, he has to be lying." She closed her eyes against the last taunt. Her mother would have given anything for Selene. But Athan was just trying to get her cooperation. He had to be lying. But a little voice kept echoing in Aria's mind. What if he wasn't? *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Endymion marched briskly from the shrine, past a relieved Nestor. Nestor struggled to keep up with Endymion's long, purposeful strides. "We received a message from Jason and Zavier while you were inside. Zavier has secured Princess Dianara. Princess Ariadne is still on the Moon with Athan. Jason has located at least one of the missing princesses on Mars." Endymion closed his eyes for a moment. Mars. He reached out with his new senses, the ones awakened by his brush with the power of Sol. Jason was heading to Mars. And something else was there. Endymion's eyes snapped open. "I'll meet Jason on Mars and then return to the moon. Athan needs to head to Saturn as soon as possible. I have several jobs for you, Nestor. First, go to the moon and set up a restoration and settlement plan for Elysian. Then you need to head to Uranus. I discovered a power here that will be very useful. I think that all of you have access to similar powers." Nestor looked at the new light in Endymion's eyes. He did seem different. The shadows that had plagued him were lessened. Nestor struggled to keep up with the instructions. "After you speak to Zavier, you are to head to Pluto, find your own power there, and finally head for Jupiter. I've been hearing rumors of instability." Nestor bowed slowly. "I'm sorry Nestor, but you and the men will have to stay here until another ship is sent. I need to leave immediately. Set up things for the reconstruction. I'll contact you." Endymion moved quickly into the waiting ship. Nestor shaded his eyes. Another day on this world of light wouldn't kill him, but all of Endymion's instructions might. Nestor noticed a flash of light on Endymion's hand. The wheels of fate were beginning to turn. He wished that he had more time with Setsuna. There was so much he didn't understand, so much yet to learn. Nestor turned back to the grumbling soldiers. He'd deal with premonitions later. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Sere stared down at the outfit they'd put her in. It was the color of cotton candy, and barely covered her body. The silver chain at her neck was heavy, and the ones on her ankles and wrists dragged her limbs towards the ground. She was being marched briskly toward the spaceport. Sere stared for a minute at the huge spaceship sitting on the tarmac. She had never seen a ship so large, or so nice. A figure left the ship and started toward a second ship. Sere's eyes focused on the second ship. Another figure left. The two met, and had some kind of argument. Then they both headed towards her. Sere panicked. She could see their faces now. It was two of the Princes of earth. She felt like an animal trapped in a cage, unable to move. She stood frozen in time. What if they recognized her? What if they killed her? Her knees felt like jelly, and her heart was pounding so loudly she was sure that they could hear her terror. The dark haired Prince stopped directly in front of her. "On your knees, wench." One of the guards smacked a spear against the back of her legs. Sere fell forward, catching herself on her hands. The tarmac of the spaceport landing area was not soft. She winced a bit in pain. A pair of black boots stopped inches from her nose. Endymion stared down at the girl. She had dark hair, like most Martians, but her skin was white. Endymion had the absurd urge to compare it to alabaster. He crouched over, and used one hand to force the girl's chin upwards. Her eyes were a brilliant cornflower blue. Endymion stared into them for a moment, chuckling as they filled with tears. She was gorgeous, the hair a strong contrast against the pale skin and eyes. He brushed his hand over her cheek, surprised at how soft her skin was. Sere was sure she was going to throw up. Her stomach was rumbling dangerously. Her heart felt like it would explode, and the sapphire eyes staring at her didn't help. The prince was very handsome, but there was darkness in his eyes that scared her. His hand brushed down her cheek, and Sere shuddered at the tender touch. The look in his eyes contrasted strongly with the gentleness of his hands. A finger reached up and wiped a tear from her cheek. Endymion stood. He felt lust pooling in his gut. He turned to the guards. "I'll be taking her with me. Put her my stateroom." He turned on his heel and headed for the ship, leaving a shaken Sere behind. She didn't like the look in his eyes. He had treated her like a pretty toy, something to play with. Sere's temper rose again. A guard jerked her to her feet. She stumbled forward, and managed to gracefully trip on her chains. Strong arms caught her before she hit the tarmac. She looked up into the Prince's eyes. Then he set her upright. "And take off all but the collar. She won't be running from me." The guards hustled Sere toward the ship, but she was too busy glaring at the back of the arrogant Prince. She'd run all right. At the first opportunity. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Diane stared out the window. She could see the gorgeous gardens that surrounded Miranda Castle. She noticed her room was on the tenth floor, and there were guards stationed on the ledge outside her window. She had also spotted a few far below, patrolling the gardens. She pulled the blue silk robe tighter. She had been dressed in a satin nightgown when she woke. Diane put a hand to her head. She still felt a little woozy. The blood loss must have been fairly substantial. Her throat was sore, and her entire body was complaining from running the day before. Zavier pushed open the door slowly. His blood froze for a moment. The bed was empty. A noise that sounded suspiciously like a sigh attracted his attention. Diane was staring out the window. He moved quietly into the room. "What are you going to do with me?" The question was quiet. Zavier stood for a moment, a little angry that she hadn't turned to face him. "I'll use you to take total control of Mercury, that is after I finish my work here on Uranus. Then you'll be presented to Prince Endymion." Zavier moved a bit closer to Diane. She still hadn't turned around. "So I'm the pawn, and you're the rook who's captured me, and Endymion is the king I'm to be presented to. Another person to be treated as spoils of war." Diane lifted a hand to the cool glass of the window. "I'm not in any position to be escaping. It has to be cold and dangerous to be a guard on a ledge on the tenth floor. Why don't you let them go elsewhere?" She felt light headed and wobbled a bit on her feet. Strong arms swept her up and carried her to the bed. For a moment she longed to do nothing more than lay her head against his chest and go to sleep. Then the vision of her mother's body rose in her mind. "You stay in bed, for at least a week." Diane slammed a hand into his chest. He grunted. "Get your hands off me, you bastard. Put me down right now." Zavier grinned and dropped her on the bed. Diane let out a squeal. Zavier leaned over her, an arm on either side of her head. "You have two choices, Diane. You can stay in bed like a good girl until you're healed, or I can chain you to the bed." His eyes were fixed on her mouth. Diane crossed her arms over her chest belligerently. "I'd like to see you try." Diane flicked her tongue over her bottom lip. Zavier groaned loudly and stood up slowly, resisting every urge of his body. "I wouldn't tempt me, nymph." Diane flinched. Her mother had always called her that. "Get out of here you murdering bastard. And keep your hands off me. I may be a prisoner, but I will get up if I want to." Zavier merely left, slamming the door violently behind him. Diane felt tears running down her face. She wiped them away slowly. She had lost her temper, and screamed like some kind of stupid female. Fatigue crept in on her, and Diane drifted slowly to sleep. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* Diane woke up lying on her back. She tried to flip over, but something heavy was dragging on her limbs. Her head turned frantically. A fat metal chain was linked to the bedpost and her hand. "Enjoying your new accommodations?" Diane's head flipped over to the other side of the bed. Zavier was sitting on a chair, legs and arms crossed. His face was emotionless, but Diane could feel the smirk in his words. "You bastard. I didn't think you'd really chain me up. Let me go right now." Diane struggled against the chains, but only succeeded in tangling her robe and nightgown around her legs. She saw Zavier's gaze drawn to her now exposed thighs. "I'll make a deal, Princess. You give your word to stay in bed for three days, and I'll take off the chains." Diane snorted, and shot Zavier a dirty look. "Fuck you, bastard." His royal blue eyes brightened. He stood and moved toward the bed. He leaned over her. "If you insist." His mouth moved downward. "Don't even think about it." Diane was surprised at how breathless her voice sounded. He smiled. "Too late." His lips covered hers in a kiss that was both hot and gentle. Diane resisted for a moment. Then a hand forced her chin down, and Diane was lost. She hadn't realized that someone could be gentle and cruel at the same time. Her heart pounded violently. She could feel all the blood in her body rush to her stomach. And she was even more lightheaded than before. Zavier hadn't imagined so much passion from such a cold little thing. She was so logical, using her head, never letting her emotions out. But she responded to him with abandon, and she was incredibly innocent. Zavier forced himself to pull away. She had called his bluff, but he had been holding four aces. He stared down at her swollen lips and flushed face. Her eyes opened slowly. Zavier resisted the urge to continue. "Promise me." Diane nodded slowly. "I promise." Diane tried to lift a shaking hand to her cheek. She frowned at the chains. "What did I just promise?" Her eyes were misty. Zavier groaned. "You'll stay in bed for three days, and I'll be nice and take the chains off." Diane nodded slowly. She looked back at Zavier. "You're very good at manipulation. Cassie should take lessons from you." Diane's voice was a strange mixture of admiration and anger. Zavier shrugged and yanked a key from his pocket. "I'm not sure if I should thank you or not. I expect you to keep your word." Diane gasped as though insulted. "I always keep my word, it's you I should worry about." Zavier merely sighed and began to unchain her feet. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* "You're certain?" Jason gave Endymion an exasperated glare. "Yes, I'm certain. I don't know how to describe it, but I can feel her. She's very near." Endymion and Jason marched side by side through the streets of Phobos Deimos. The citizens scurried into back alleys like insects. Jason's eyes were shining, and Endymion had a look of pure determination. "Do you have any idea where we're headed?" Endymion grimaced at the red dust caking his boots. Jason shrugged. "It's like following a scent. I simply know where the feeling is stronger, and in what direction it's located. I don't know where we'll end up." Jason continued through the streets. Endymion sighed a bit. Jason could be very single minded sometimes. There was no stopping the man once he'd set a goal. The two were moving towards the back edge of the city, near the canyon. Then Endymion stopped. They were at the gates to the great temple of Mars. "Jason, I don't think that's a good idea." Jason ignored Endymion and started up the stairs. Endymion felt his heart freeze. He'd heard stories about those who tried to enter the temple and were judged unworthy. Their mangled remains were displayed on the walls of the city as a warning to others. Martians always did have gruesome customs. Jason continued forward and laid a hand on the doors. They swung open softly. Jason turned back towards Endymion. His eyes were lit by a fire from within. Endymion sighed loudly. Jason moved through the doors. Endymion followed a bit more cautiously. Then the two stood in the entrance to the great temple, and the doors slammed shut behind them. *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* "Cassie? Cassie wake up." The worried tone and light pat on the cheek didn't wake her, but the bucket of water her grandfather dumped on her head did the trick. Cassie sat up quickly, screaming in outrage. "What the hell do you think you're doing?" Cassie spluttered the words, water dripping from her hair into her face. Her grandfather merely smiled. "It certainly woke you up, didn't it?" Cassie groaned and tried to ring some of the water out of the white uniform she still wore. "Yes, and now I'm totally see through. Thanks a lot." There was a twinkle in her grandpa's eyes. Cassie stood up and moved from the puddle she was sitting in. "So I have the soul of a god huh?" She stared at the bracelet on her wrist. She sighed loudly. "I always wanted to take my mother's place. But now I have to follow some obscure references to achieve the highest level of power." Cassie ran a hand through her hair, the path in the book burned into her brain. "I'm sure you'll do well. I have to leave Cassie, the resistance needs me. You'll be on your own. But if you're ever in trouble, we'll find you." He turned and headed out of the library door. "The symbol of office is the first step. That must be this bracelet. Then I need the proof of inheritance. I obviously don't have that yet, then the protection of the guardian, the talisman and the echo of the heart. Why couldn't they just spell out exactly what I'm supposed to do? All these little riddles are going to drive me nuts." Cassie moved slowly through the temple. Then she heard the main doors slam shut. Her heart froze in her chest. Intruders. The sound would be different if someone had been crushed. Cassie felt a shiver run down her spine. She ran quietly through the halls, and headed for the second level. She remembered a great deal of the temple layout. She ended up in a doorway on a large balcony. She dropped down and moved closer to get a good view of the main entrance. There were two men standing below her. Cassie resisted the urge to swear. She knew those figures. One was tall with dark hair and light eyes, dressed in black. The other was dressed in light gray, was slightly shorter, and had pale golden hair. It was two earth princes. Cassie's eyes grew cold. She wouldn't have to hunt down her mother's murderer. He had come directly to her. The two men were discussing something between themselves. Then the blonde one held up a hand. Cassie racked her brain. Jason, that was the blonde. And the dark haired one was Endymion, the Dark Prince. Cassie reached inside for the training her grandfather had bestowed so long ago. She closed her eyes and concentrated. Two misty aura's, one a mixture of gold and black, the colors oddly twining and fighting. The other was a brilliant aquamarine, like the sea. The men below grew silently. They glanced around the room as though looking for something. Jason closed his eyes for a moment. Then he looked up. His eyes locked unerringly on Cassie. He smiled. She gasped. How had he known where she was? Cassie stood up. She threw one arm over her head. Enough games. It was time to be a champion of justice. Two voices rang through the hallways of the great temple at exactly the same time. "Sol Power." "Mars Power." *^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^* AN: I know, I'm kind of evil, but I find cliffhangers so enjoyable to write.