Crystal Flaws - Part 03 Crystal Clear

Elios returned to the Crystal Palace Friday afternoon. Serenity saw the Pegasus land and she ran to greet him. Elios’ face lit up when he saw her. He jumped off the Pegasus and joyfully swept her into his arms. They kissed and both sighed happily.

Elios reached into his shirt pocket and pulled out two pieces of paper. He held them up in front of Serenity’s face, and asked, “Do you want to go?”

Serenity saw that they were tickets to a dinner theater in Crystal Tokyo. She nodded her head yes, smiled and said, “It sounds like fun!”

“Well, the show starts early so we need to get ready. We leave in an hour,” Elios responded.

Serenity pulled out of his arms as she said, “I have to hurry then!” She blew him a kiss and ran off. Elios hummed happily to himself as he headed for the room he used at the palace.

An hour later Serenity stood by the Pegasus as she waited for Elios. She fed the Pegasus an apple she had brought for him from the kitchen, and giggled as his velvet lips tickled her palm. She petted his long nose then impulsively hugged his face to her and lightly kissed his cheek.

Elios stepped out of the palace into the garden. He scowled when he saw his fiancée fawning over the Pegasus. Looking up, the Pegasus silently snickered with amusement at Elios’ expression.

Elios cleared his throat and Serenity turned to face him. She was wearing a long, lavender, strapless gown with a sheer, iridescent layer of material floating over it. A side-slit showed off her leg and silver sandals. Elios’ breath caught in his throat, as he was again amazed at how beautiful his Maiden was. He walked up to Serenity and bowed. Taking her hand, Elios turned it palm up then gently and intimately kissed the pulse on her wrist. “You are beautiful, my Maiden,” Elios whispered.

Serenity was pleased to notice, even though he didn’t have her father’s height or bulk, Elios still wore a tuxedo well. She smiled and said, “You look very handsome as well, my Dreamer.” Elios drew her into his arms and they kissed.

Clearing his throat, Terrance interrupted the couple. They looked at him questioningly and he said, “It looks like you two are going out for dinner tonight. Did you let our father or the Queen know so they won’t worry?”

Serenity sighed. “No, I forgot. We’re going to be late if we don’t get going. Would you please tell them for me?”

Terrance teasingly said, “I guess, but you’ll owe me!”

Serenity stuck her tongue out at Terrance and laughingly said, “Add it to my bill!”

Elios turned to the Pegasus and asked him to kneel. He helped Serenity sit sidesaddle, and then also mounted. They flew away.

The restaurant’s Host sat them at a table near the stage and left them with menus. Noticing the wine list, Elios said, “It’s probably not a good idea for you to have alcohol. We could have tea instead if you like.”

When Serenity didn’t answer, Elios looked up. Her eyes flashed angrily as she stared at him over the top of her menu. Quietly, she replied, “I am almost seventeen, a Princess and engaged to be married. In my book that’s old enough to have a drink with dinner!”

Surprised by Serenity’s strong reaction, Elios hesitated as he thought about her answer. He realized she had misconstrued his reason for saying she shouldn’t drink. Elios leaned forward to reach out and lightly caress her cheek with his fingers. He soothingly said, “I agree. You are plenty old enough to drink, but if you’re pregnant then the babies are not old enough.”

Serenity’s eyes widened with surprise. That thought hadn’t even crossed her mind! She felt ashamed of her reaction and was also touched by Elios’ concern for their possible child. Tears welled up in Serenity’s eyes and spilled down her cheeks. Quickly looking down, she whispered, “I’m sorry, you’re right. I hadn’t even considered that.”

Elios wiped away the tears on her cheeks then squeezed her hand comfortingly. He said, “That’s okay. I know you wouldn’t do anything on purpose that would cause harm. I only know about that from when my sisters were pregnant.”

Serenity looked up and gave him a watery smile. She said, “Tea is fine.”

They ordered their food and the rest of their evening went well. The show was a comedy and they left the restaurant giggling together about it.

Deciding she didn’t care about her dress or propriety, Serenity sat herself down on the Pegasus facing Elios. She smiled saucily as her eyes dared Elios to say something about it. He smiled and decided he certainly wouldn’t complain.

As they flew over the forest, they kissed and soon they were gasping with desire for each other. It had been a long, lonely week for both of them.

Serenity breathlessly whimpered as Elios trailed soft kisses on her skin just above the neckline of her dress. She sighed, “I really want to be with you tonight!”

Kissing his way up her neck, Elios whispered in her ear. “I want to be with you tonight too. I did go to Crystal Tokyo this week so we have protection now.” They kissed again and Elios crushed her against him. Serenity could feel the evidence of his strong desire for her pressed against her body.

Serenity quietly asked, “How do we manage this with everyone here at the Palace? Not only do we have to avoid my Senshi, Terrance and my Parents, but there are also the Palace Night Guards. I’m sure they would report it if they saw me near your room.”

Elios’ kisses and hands were very distracting to Serenity and she couldn’t think straight. She grabbed his hands and leaned away from his kisses. Elios looked at her with such a sad expression it made her heart melt.

Serenity implored, “I’m trying to figure out how to work this and you’re making it very difficult! Please, just give me a minute to think. Okay?”

Elios blushed then put his hands under himself and sat on them to make them behave.

Trying not to giggle, Serenity concentrated on their problem. She suddenly realized what they could do. She smiled at Elios and said, “I have the ability to do a personal teleport. As long as I only teleport within the Palace I shouldn’t set off the perimeter alarms.”

Elios looked concerned. “Have you done this before? I don’t want you to get hurt.”

“I’ve teleported with the other Senshi before. I’m sure it works the same way.”

Elios said, “Okay.” He released his hands then realized they were already starting to land. He sighed again with frustration and Serenity couldn’t help but giggle at his woebegone expression. She kissed him gently and whispered, “I’ll be there before you know it!” He swallowed and nodded his head yes.

~~~~~~~~

Quietly moving around her room, Serenity got ready to go to Elios. She prayed her Senshi wouldn’t hear her, or see the light from the teleport under their adjoining doors. Already wearing a little pair of silk and lace underwear, Serenity put on a negligee and a silk robe. She brushed her teeth, unwound her hair and brushed it smooth. Serenity decided she was ready.

Picking up her brooch with her Crystal inside, Serenity closed her eyes and began to concentrate on her destination. She felt a brief cold nothingness and then warm air surrounded her again. Peeking open her eyes, she breathed a sigh of relief when she saw Elios sitting on the side of his bed.

Elios stood up and stared at his fiancée. Serenity’s glossy pink hair hung down to her feet in waves. She wore a light pink silk robe tied at her waist, and tantalizing little pieces of lace peeked out from under it.

Smiling a bit shyly, Serenity loosened the belt around her waist. The robe and her brooch dropped to the floor. Elios could now see that the little pieces of lace were attached to a short, pale pink baby doll negligee.

Moving quickly, Elios gathered Serenity into his arms. He marveled at how delicate and sensual she felt. Serenity reached up and pulled his head down to kiss her.

They slowly made their way to his bed as they kissed. Desperately, the lovers touched and kissed each other. Finally they were able to do what they both had been dreaming of all week.

When the time came to use protection, Elios made sure not to forget. Serenity was curious about it. After he put it on, she ran her fingers up and down his length. “Does this feel different with that on?” she asked.

Elios swallowed then nodded yes. He breathlessly said, “It still feels good though.”

Gently pushing Serenity back down on the bed, Elios buried himself deep inside her. They both gasped as the incredible feeling of being joined overwhelmed them. Elios’ body told him to hurry, but his heart wanted this to last forever. He settled for a slow steady pace. As they kissed, he whispered against her lips, “My Maiden!”

Serenity felt her body tighten and respond to his movements. Suddenly, she breathlessly gasped as she fell over the edge and lost control. She pulled on him and desperately clung to him as her climax washed over her.

What little control Elios had was gone. He groaned and pushed deeply inside of her. He pulsed his release again and again, until he was totally spent.

Still joined, they rested and tried to catch their breath. After a moment, Elios looked in Serenity’s luminous eyes and kissed her gently. She smiled and hugged him fiercely to her as tears slipped out from under her eyelids. He felt the wetness against his cheek and looked at her. With concern he asked, “Did I hurt you?”

Serenity shook her head no and buried her face in his shoulder as more tears fell. She brokenly whispered, “I’m crying because I’m overwhelmed by how wonderful this is. I’m so happy with you here. I Love You!”

Amazed that her feelings for him were as deep and as strong as his feelings were for her, Elios buried his face in her hair. He choked out, “I Love You too! You make me happier than I’ve ever been in my life!”

They kissed again then Elios carefully pulled away from her and went to discard the condom. Returning to their bed he could hear Serenity already quietly snore. He pulled the covers up, set the alarm for early then snuggled her securely in his arms. Elios lightly kissed Serenity’s cheek then quickly fell asleep with a contented sigh.

~~~~~~~~

The alarm rang and Elios viciously hit the snooze button. Ten minutes later it rang again. He was vaguely aware there was a reason for the alarm going off, but he couldn’t place it. Serenity rolled over and hid her head under a pillow as she angrily muttered at the alarm.

Elios turned the alarm off. He was now awake enough to know why they had to get up. He smiled, stretched, and then reached for his lover. Pulling Serenity into his arms, Elios started to whisper in her ear as he rubbed her back.

Serenity didn’t want to wake up, but Elios’ whispered words and hands traveling up and down her back refused to let her drift off again. She snuggled against him and draped her leg over him. Unconsciously her hand started to caress his chest. He knew if he didn’t stop her, they’d never get up.

Elios picked up Serenity’s hand and gently kissed her palm. “Maiden,” he whispered, “We need to get up or your Senshi will know you’re missing.”

Serenity mumbled that she didn’t care, but Elios knew she would care later when she was more awake. Pulling them both up until they were sitting, Elios held Serenity in his lap as he continued to gently cajole her to open her eyes. She finally did respond, but then she was interested in things other than leaving.

Chuckling, Elios again captured Serenity’s hands. He insistently said, “If I don’t kick you out of here, I won’t be allowed back again. Do you want that to happen?”

Serenity pouted, but agreed she didn’t want that to happen. Finally, she was dressed, and after a last lingering kiss, she teleported back to her room. They had agreed to meet at a more reasonable hour for breakfast. Serenity tried to go back to sleep, but her bed felt too cold and empty. With a sigh she got up and took a leisurely bath. By the time she was done getting dressed and did her hair, it was time for breakfast.

~~~~~~~~

King Endymion and Neo-Queen Serenity were finished eating and lingered at the breakfast table over their coffee. The Crystal Tokyo Times was folded on the table next to the King.

Elios showed up first. He said hello, and poured himself a cup of coffee. He picked up a second cup and filled it with hot water and tea for Serenity. Just as he sat down she entered the room.

Mamoru and Usagi couldn’t help but smile when they saw the joy and happiness that lit up their daughter and Elios’ faces.

Elios stood and gave Serenity a quick kiss before she sat down. As he handed the cup of tea to her, Elios asked Serenity what she wanted to eat. Soon, he returned from the buffet carrying a plateful of food for each of them.

As the couple started to eat, Serenity’s father asked, “What did you think of the show? I heard it was very funny.”

Serenity and Elios looked up surprised. Elios said, “We didn’t tell Terrance where we were going. How did you know what show we saw?”

Serenity sighed as she looked over at the newspaper. She reached across the table, pulled it to her and opened it to the Social Section. The headline read,
“Royal Princess and Priest - Out on Tokyo Town!”
The article went on to say the Princess and her fiancé were seen enjoying dinner and the show at a certain very prestigious Dinner Theater last evening. It reiterated that Lady Serenity, the Royal Princess of Crystal Tokyo, and Elios, the High Priest of Earth and Elysion, were newly engaged just last week. The story went into quite a bit of detail about them.

Serenity knew she should be used to this, but it still greatly annoyed her. Elios’ eyes widened as he read the article. He looked up and asked Serenity, “Did you see a reporter there?”

Serenity shook her head no, and her mother said, “Many times you don’t see them.”

~~~~~~~~

After breakfast Serenity suggested they take a picnic to the cliff. She said she wanted to go on horseback for a change from flying.

The horses were saddled up and waiting for them when they got to the stables. Elios looked at the horses uncertainly. He asked Serenity, “Isn’t that uncomfortable for them?”

Serenity laughed. “I’ve never heard one tell me so yet!” She introduced Elios to his horse and was surprised when it seemed nervous. The horse snorted and tried to turn back to the stables. Perplexed and a bit annoyed, Serenity said, “She doesn’t seem to want to go.”

Elios tried not to sigh with relief as he said, “I’ve never ridden anything other than a Pegasus so how about you ride the horse and I’ll take the Pegasus. He can trot through the forest if the trail isn’t too narrow.” He silently added to himself, [At least I hope he will!]

Serenity shrugged her shoulders resignedly and said, “Okay. Go get him and I’ll return the other horse.”

Serenity turned to walk away with the horse just as the Pegasus trotted around the corner of the stables toward Elios. Serenity was surprised the Pegasus had showed up like that but she didn’t stop to ask how. Once she was out of sight the Pegasus gave Elios a *very* annoyed look. Elios smiled apologetically and shrugged his shoulders as he mounted. The Pegasus sighed and turned his head back around just as Serenity returned to mount her horse.

Serenity led the way down the trails with Elios following on the Pegasus. When they got to the clearing she dismounted then tied her horse to a tree. Elios dismounted and the Pegasus flew away. Surprised, Serenity asked, “Why did he fly away? Will he come back?”

Elios ran his fingers through his hair then said, “Um, he’ll come back before we’re ready to leave.”

Serenity shrugged then turned to pull a basket and blanket off her saddle. She said, “It’s really hot today so I thought we’d set up on the beach by the base of the cliff. It should be cooler in the shade. Elios took the basket from her and followed as she walked to the trail that led down to the pond.

It was a bit cooler in the shadow of the cliff. They ate their picnic, listened to the quiet sounds of nature and dozed together. As they relaxed, the sun moved and the shade slowly disappeared.

Serenity looked longingly at the cool, deep, spring fed pond. She said, “We should have thought to bring swimsuits. It’s plenty hot enough to swim.”

Elios did agree the water looked inviting. He said, “We could pull a “Terrance” and swim anyway.”

Serenity made a face. “Trust me that was not comfortable! Besides, My dress would float up on me.”

Elios thought he wouldn’t mind if her dress floated. Another idea came to mind and he said, “We could swim if we took our clothes off.”

Serenity blushed and said with shock, “You mean skinny-dip? I couldn’t do that!” Elios shrugged. Turning over on his back, he put his arms under his head to watch the clouds go by.

After a few moments Serenity quietly mused, “I really do want to swim, and it might be fun to try.” Elios turned his head to look at her and she continued with a giggle, “I guess I’ll try it if you get undressed first.”

Elios didn’t have a problem with that idea so he sat up and peeled his shirt off. His shoes and socks were already off, so he reached for his belt.

Serenity giggled nervously. “You really are going to do it?”

Elios answered, “Sure, why not?” He stood to finish stripping. Turning to Serenity with a daring smile, he quietly said, “Your turn.”

Blushing a deeper red, Serenity stood and turned her back to him. She said, “Help, please?” Elios reached for and slowly slid the zipper of her dress down the length of her back. Serenity noted, “You’re getting better at that,” as she shrugged her shoulders and the dress fell to her feet. Serenity quickly stepped forward. She turned around as Elios’ arms closed around the empty space she had moved from.

“None of that! I’m going for a swim,” She said to her disappointed boyfriend as she quickly slipped her underwear off. Serenity knew she’d never get to the water if Elios caught her.

Laughing, Serenity turned and ran for the pond. She got far enough to duck under, but when she came up he grabbed her.

Throwing her arms around Elios’ neck, Serenity kissed him. She then kicked his leg out from under him and pushed him over. They both went under and she managed to slip out of his arms.

Serenity swam away quickly as Elios surfaced. She got about twenty-five feet away then turned to look back. Elios was standing where she had left him with his head down and his arms crossed.

Serenity wondered if her Senshi strength and fighting skills had offended him, or maybe she had hurt him. She swam back and worriedly ducked down to look into his face.

Too late, Serenity saw the triumphant gleam in Elios’ eyes as he grabbed her and lifted her up in his arms. She gasped as he dropped down and dunked them both.

They surfaced and Serenity knew she had been bested. “That wasn’t fair!” She stated with a pout.

“What? What did I do?” Elios responded with an innocent look.

Serenity huffed and rolled her eyes. “Yeah, right!” She looked at Elios and saw he was quietly chuckling at her. Serenity started to get offended and began to struggle out of his arms. Elios tightened his grip and caught her lips with his.

Slowly all the fight drained out of Serenity as she relaxed into their kiss. She sighed as Elios released her lips then trailed kisses over her cheek and down her neck. Under the water his hands were traveling over her back and bottom. The swirls of cool water following after his warm hands were very sensual.

Elios raised her up until her breasts were above the water then kissed his way to them. Serenity wrapped her legs around his waist and gave in to the pleasure he offered to her. He cradled her in his arms as he thoroughly enjoyed her. Eventually Elios kissed his way back up to her lips.

As they kissed passionately Serenity could feel what she desperately wanted so very near where she wanted it. She subtly shifted around and was rewarded with a gasp from Elios. One little push and they would be completed.

Elios groaned and lifted Serenity away from him. He panted as he said, “If we do this here we’ll really regret it.” Serenity felt like crying.

Looking into her eyes, Elios almost gave in. He firmly reminded himself that he couldn’t do that to her again, even if she really wanted it. He took her hand and led her to the beach.

Sinking to her knees on the blanket, Serenity tried to get a grip on herself. She leaned her head down to the ground and breathed deeply as she told herself she would not cry.

Elios had found his clothes and Serenity heard a tearing sound. With sudden joy she realized her *Wonderful* *Fabulous* Fiancé had thought to bring one thing she had not thought of.

Elios crawled to her and kissed her deeply. He then moved behind her and gently directed her to kneel as she was before. He whispered, “Do you mind trying it this way?” Serenity shook her head no as she rested her forehead on her arms.

Elios gently lifted her up and entered her from behind. He buried himself fully inside of her then repeatedly ran his hands over her smooth thighs and hips. He kept himself still as he tried to relax and collect some control.

Serenity desperately whispered, “Please, Elios,” and he almost lost it.

Finally, Elios felt like he could do this. He slowly moved all the way out and Serenity gasped as he reentered her. He waited a moment then did it again. Elios continued to repeat this as he gradually quickened his pace.

Serenity’s pleasure and desperation increased with every move Elios made. As her desires increased she began to move herself quickly back and forth on him.

Elios now held himself still as Serenity took over the lead of their sensual dance. He felt her body grip him tightly as her movements pushed both of them closer to the edge. Elios quietly panted as he struggled to hold onto his quickly fading control.

Suddenly, Serenity gasped as her taut, desperate desires shattered into a million shards of shimmering pleasure inside her.

With a groan of both relief and release, Elios thrust himself into her wildly again and again. He gasped, “Oh my Maiden!” as he joined her over the edge. He emptied himself completely as he pulled her hips up close against him.

After an eternity, the momentum of their mutual passion finally slowed. Elios slowly withdrew and collapsed on the blanket beside Serenity. He gathered her into his arms and they both just lay there breathing deeply.

Running his fingers over her hair, Elios finally whispered, “If this gets any better, I just might die from it!”

Serenity giggled. “What would they put in your obituary as cause of death?”

Chuckling, he answered, “His heart gave out from too much enjoyment!”

“I guess we’ll have to stop doing this so I can keep you around then,” Serenity teasingly said.

Elios leaned up over her and kissed her deeply. He looked into Serenity’s eyes and seriously said, “There is no way I would be able to keep my hands off of you, my lovely Maiden. It would kill me to have to do that!”

Pulling his face back down to hers, Serenity whispered with a smile, “So, you’ll die if we do and you’ll die if we don’t. I guess you’re not going to live very much longer!”

They both laughed at their silliness and kissed again.

After a little while they felt like they could get up. The lovers decided to swim once more and this time they actually did swim. They gathered their clothes, got dressed then cleaned up the picnic. They climbed up the cliff trail and the horse was waiting where Serenity had tied him. The Pegasus was waiting on the other side of the clearing.

Elios helped Serenity tie the basket and blanket to her saddle then he pulled her into his arms. Hugging her tightly, he said, “I Love You, my Maiden. This was a lot of fun! Thank you.”

Serenity smiled and pulled his head down to kiss him. Their lips reluctantly parted and she whispered, “I Love You too, my Dreamer. We’ll have lots of fun like this for the rest of our lives, and I definitely like that idea!”

~~~~~~~~

Elios and Serenity returned to the Palace for dinner. During the course of conversation Mamoru asked if they had a nice time during their picnic.

The question caught the couple off guard and they fumbled for an answer. They looked at each other, both blushed and looked down. Finally, Serenity managed to choke out that they had a very nice picnic.

It was obvious to Serenity’s parents and Terrance that the couple did not want to discuss their day. Mamoru shrugged and looked at his wife. Usagi tried desperately to not to laugh at their uncomfortable response to such an innocent question. The confused look on her husband’s face didn’t help her composure either.

~~~~~~~~

After dinner, Serenity and Elios walked in the garden together until it was time to separate for bed. They had not talked about meeting later, but Serenity decided to surprise Elios. Of course her inability to sleep had absolutely nothing to do with the cold bed she was lying in alone.

Around midnight Serenity teleported to Elios’ room and saw he was already asleep. She slipped into the bed next to him and promptly drifted off to sleep with a happy sigh.

Elios woke up later in the night and was very surprised to see Serenity. He was glad he had woken up though. He set the alarm then cuddled her up close and went back to sleep.

The next morning Elios tried to convince Serenity to leave when the alarm rang, but somehow they managed to get distracted. By the time she actually left, it was much later than Elios thought was safe. He was right.

As she materialized in her room, Serenity was startled to see all four Asteroid Senshi sitting on her bed waiting for her. They didn’t look happy. “Hi guys,” Serenity said cautiously. All four girls jumped up when they saw Serenity.

Ceres sighed and said, “Finally you’re here. We were afraid we’d have to go get you!”

Grabbing Serenity’s arm, Pallas pulled her over to sit on the bed. She said, “Your mother has sent three messengers here in the last twenty minutes!”

Vesta added, “The Queen wants you to go to the Breakfast room right away.”

Juno scolded, “Do you know what would have happened to you and Elios if your mother started a Palace search and they found you in his room?”

Shaken by the close call, Serenity whispered, “Thank you guys for covering for me. I better hurry and go see what my mother wants.” The girls left. Serenity wondered what could have happened to cause her mother to summon her on a Sunday morning like this. With trepidation she hurried to get ready.

Serenity saw Elios walking down the hall before she got to the Breakfast Room. He smiled then noticed the worried look in her eyes. Concerned, he hugged her and asked what was wrong.

As they walked, Serenity told Elios what her Senshi had said and he agreed it did not sound good.

Serenity’s unspoken fear was that something had happened to her father or Terrance. Elios’ unspoken fear was that Serenity would have to go into battle again.

When they neared the breakfast room the two of them took deep breaths, clasped hands then turned the corner together. They walked up to the Royal Breakfast Room door and their hearts dropped to their toes.

Neo-Queen Serenity and the Planet Senshi Mars, Jupiter, Mercury and Venus were all sitting at the table. Serenity knew that nothing short of war would bring the Planet Senshi to the Royal Rooms on the weekend! Serenity’s father and Terrance were missing and she turned fearful eyes to her mother. Serenity squeezed Elios’ hand as she hesitantly said, “Hello Mother and Planet Senshi.”

The five women’s serious expressions did not change. Serenity’s mother quietly said, “Serenity and Elios, please sit down.” As the couple moved to comply, Sailor Mercury got up, closed the door and sat back down. The only things on the table were a large courier’s envelope with a newspaper under it.

The Queen stood up and looked at Serenity and Elios. She was obviously trying to gather her composure before she spoke. Finally she put both hands on the table across from the couple and leaned over into their faces. Both of them sat back with surprise.

“You two have really caused us a lot of trouble!” is what finally came out of the Queen’s mouth. She reached for the newspaper, dropped it front page up on the table in front of the couple, and added, “You’ve been upgraded to the front page.”

Serenity and Elios looked at the paper with confusion. They read one of the headlines and simultaneously whispered, “Oh my God!” Serenity burst into tears and hid her face in Elios’ shoulder.

Her mother said, “It gets better. They put the picture in the Social Section.”

Elios’ face drained of color and Serenity shook her head no as she cried harder.

Serenity’s mother shook her head and paced as she spoke. “I just warned you both yesterday morning about things like this and you did this anyway! What were you thinking? Don’t either of you have any common sense?!” She stopped pacing and pointedly looked at the couple as she added, “I hope you at least had enough common sense to not repeat your previous mistake!”

Elios knew exactly what previous mistake the Queen was referring to. He blushed and quietly said, “We didn’t make that mistake again.”

The Queen turned to the Planet Senshi and tiredly said, “Tell them the rest.”

Standing up, Sailor Mars glared angrily as she said, “Fortunately the paper’s editor is a friend. He couldn’t stop the story from running, but he did keep a picture off the front page and only allowed one picture inside. He sent the first printed copy to me via private courier 4:30 this morning with a letter explaining the situation. He was somewhat able to influence the decision about which picture to use and he apologized he couldn’t keep a picture out entirely. The envelope includes all negatives and prints, as far as he knows.” Mars threw the envelope down on the table in front Elios and sharply said, “You may want to dispose of this securely.”

Neo-Queen Serenity, who had not done a good job of calming down, suddenly jumped up and pulled Serenity off Elios’ shoulder. She opened the paper and yelled, “Look! See what has been sent all over the world and probably to all the planets!”

Serenity and Elios saw a small grainy long shot of the cliff and pond. Part of a blanket showed at the base of the cliff. There wasn’t much detail to the picture, but you could tell there were two people on the blanket. One had distinctive long pink hair and the other white-blond hair. Even without the detail, the couple’s state of undress and what they were doing was obvious.

Serenity covered her face in shame and again turned to Elios in tears. He put his arm around her and wondered what would happen next.

Serenity’s mother was nowhere near finished yelling at them. Pacing the room again, she growled, “Your father is so angry, that I refused to allow him to leave our rooms until dinner. Hopefully by then he will have stopped throwing roses at the walls!”

Coming to a stand still in front of the couple, the Queen continued her tirade. “Of all the stupid things you’ve done in your life, Princess Lady Serenity, *This* tops them all combined!”

Serenity cringed at her mother’s words and use of her full name. The Queen threw her hands up in frustration and continued pacing.

Elios couldn’t stand it anymore. Looking at the Queen and Senshi he said, “Don’t blame Serenity. It was my idea.” Elios had hoped this would take the heat off of Serenity, but his words did not have the effect he expected.

Serenity’s mother turned on Elios and yelled, “Don’t give me that! I know it “takes two to tango” and I also know you couldn’t get Serenity to do anything she didn’t agree to do!”

Nonplussed, Elios looked down. He knew her mother spoke the truth. Sighing, he looked up and said, “You’re right, we didn’t use good judgment. We apologize for the trouble we’ve caused, but what’s done is done. Please stop upsetting Serenity.”

The Queen looked at Elios. It was clear from her expression that she was totally fed-up with him. She said, “Elios, I recommend you leave. Hopefully we will have calmed down by Wednesday.”

Refusing to be cowed, Elios quietly said, “No, I won’t leave. I don’t want you to continue yelling at Serenity. We both did this and I won’t allow her to take the heat without me.”

The four Senshi and the Queen stared at Elios incredulously.

Serenity lifted her head from his shoulder and whispered, “Elios, you should go. It’s probably dangerous for you to stay.”

“Dearest Maiden,” Elios whispered as he gently leaned his forehead against hers and looked into her eyes, “Remember when I said I’d brave Hell for the privilege of being with you?” Serenity slightly nodded her head yes. Wiping her tears with his fingers, Elios smiled comfortingly and said, “I meant it.” Serenity rewarded him with a pale watery smile then hugged him close.

The others had heard the couple’s quiet conversation. Their reactions were mixed. Sailors Venus and Jupiter thought it was one of the most romantic things they had ever heard. They immediately decided to forgive the couple for the trouble they caused. Sailor Mercury secretly agreed with Jupiter and Venus, but she knew the Queen and Mars wouldn’t see it that way. She was right.

Neo-Queen Serenity had balled her hands into fists and her eyes flashed dangerously. Standing over Elios, she warned him with a deadly calm voice. “You are walking on very thin ice here. Don’t alienate me, Elios! I am the only thing standing between you and my husband right now!”

Despite the Queen’s wrath and threats to involve the King, Elios didn’t back down. He quietly stated, “Okay. If everyone here is so upset about this then I’ll leave, but I’m taking Serenity with me. I won’t leave her here to be bullied.”

Neo-Queen Serenity started to sputter and Mars’ eyes widened with shock at Elios’ audacity.

Mercury could see Elios wasn’t trying to be antagonistic, but he was serious about what he would do. Turning to Usagi, she quietly asked, “Do you think Serenity would go with him?”

The Queen looked first at Mercury then at Serenity, who was still surrounded by the protection of Elios’ arms. She knew without a doubt that her daughter would go. Usagi also knew she didn’t want that to happen. With this new perspective, she realized what *had* happened wasn’t the worst thing that *could* happen.

With a sigh of resignation, she said, “Okay Elios, your point is taken. However, I do still feel you should leave. On my honor as the Queen of Crystal Tokyo, I will make sure nobody, including myself, harasses Serenity about this again.”

Looking very relieved, Elios said, “Thank you. I will leave as soon as I pack. May we go?”

Tiredly, Usagi nodded her head yes as she held her fingers to her throbbing temple.

Elios grabbed the newspaper, the envelope and Serenity’s hand. They quickly left.

The Queen slowly sank into a chair as she asked her four friends, “What just happened here?”

Mars shook her head in amazement and bluntly said, “Usagi, You just got out maneuvered by your daughter’s fiancé.”

Mercury spoke up in his defense, “I do think his point was valid though. We were being very rough on her.”

Jupiter said, “I have to hand it to Elios, he has guts. I would never have thought he had it in him to face us all down. For all he knew we could have turned him into moon dust. Apparently there’s more to him than we thought.

Venus spoke up, “Hey, there’s a saying for people like him.”

The others said with desperation, “Minako, please don’t!”

“No,” Venus insisted, “I have it this time. Let’s see, “Large oceans are very deep!””

Everyone groaned and leaned their heads down on the table.

Venus looked annoyed and Mercury started to laugh until she couldn’t breath. She gasped, “Minako, let me take a wild guess here. “Still waters run deep!” Right?”

Venus blushed and said, “Yeah, that’s it. I was close though. I knew he was deep water!”

Mercury nodded her head and agreed. “Yes, Elios is deep water.”

~~~~~~~~

Serenity sat on Elios’ bed while he packed up. She tried not to cry, but she didn’t want him to go. Sitting down next to her, Elios hugged her and soothingly said, “You’ll be okay. Here, I want to give this to you.” Elios opened his hand and showed her a small silver whistle on a chain.

Carefully lifting the delicate instrument from his hand, Serenity looked at him and said, “It’s beautiful, but why?”

“No matter where you are on Earth or Elysion, this ultrasonic whistle will call a Pegasus to you within 10 minutes. If necessary, it will fight for and protect you. Then it will bring you to me,” Elios explained.

Serenity looked at him in amazement. With everything that had happened the last few weeks, and especially after what had happened in the breakfast room, Serenity felt like everyone was ganging up against her. Elios had picked up on her feelings and this was his way of making sure she knew he was protecting her even when he wasn’t there. Serenity was surprised how much it meant to her to know she could reach him if she needed him. Tears filled her eyes and ran down her cheeks. “Thank you,” she whispered.

Elios gently slipped the chain around her neck and the whistle settled between her breasts. The fire-rose gold chain he had given her was shorter and hung nicely inside the new chain. Leaning over, Elios kissed Serenity where the whistle nestled then sat up and kissed her lips. He said, “I’ll be back on Wednesday. The appointment is at 9 o’clock right?”

Serenity nodded her head yes. With a sigh she remembered they still had that to deal with too. She looked up at Elios and quietly asked, “Did you mean it when you told my mother you’d take me away?”

Elios smiled. “Of course. I’m glad I don’t have to though. You should stay here until we’re married.”

Serenity sighed wistfully. “Yes, you’re right.” She looked up and her eyes were full of love as she said, “I Love You so much, my Dreamer!” She threw her arms around his neck and kissed him deeply.

After they slowly broke the kiss Elios chuckled. “Wow! A Maiden’s gratitude is definitely worth any suffering required!” Serenity giggled and kissed him again.

~~~~~~~~

Elios looked back as the Pegasus took off. Serenity blew him a kiss. He returned it then turned forward. That’s when he realized the Pegasus was laughing. [What’s so funny, Cas?] Elios telepathically asked.

Castor stopped laughing long enough to respond. [I heard you gained a bit of notoriety this weekend!]

Elios blushed and scowled. [How did you hear?]

Castor said, [You and your female really shook everyone up at the Palace. I couldn’t help but overhear what happened.]

Elios sighed. [I just hope it blows over quickly. That reminds me, I gave Lady Serenity the Silver Whistle. I don’t think she’ll need to use it, but I wanted her to have it just in case.]

The Pegasus snorted. [She better not wake us up with it or I’ll be annoyed!]

Elios laughed. [Okay. If it’s nighttime, I’ll go.]

Elios remembered something else he wanted to talk to the Pegasus about. Changing the subject, he said, [I wanted to talk with you about Friday evening. Castor, I don’t ever want to see you touching or talking to Lady Serenity again!]

The Pegasus snorted then tossed his head. He twitched his tail with annoyance. [I’ll have you know,] Castor defended himself. [She offered me an apple. I couldn’t very well offend her by refusing! I can’t help it if your female is affectionate! Maybe if she knew how much more sentient we are than her horses she might be more reserved!]

Elios could tell he had offended his friend. He sighed. [All right, I’m sorry. I love her so much and it really got to me when I saw her hug and kiss you.]

Castor chuckled. [I don’t know why you feel insecure about her. She obviously loves you. Besides there isn’t a Pegasus in Elysion who would challenge you for her now.]

Surprised, Elios asked, [Why not?]

The Pegasus continued, [If you would take your Pegasus form around her you’d be able to tell that her scent has changed. She is irrefutably yours, and she is not a part of the pasture group anymore.]

Stunned, Elios silently thought about what Castor had said. It had been a long time since Elios had transformed into his Pegasus form and he had mostly forgotten about his Pegasus blood. What Castor had said caused Elios to remember. Pegasuses considered an unmarried female to be part of the pasture group and available until she has chosen a mate and becomes pregnant.

Suddenly, the full meaning of Castor’s statement hit Elios. Sighing resignedly, he stated, [So, she is pregnant then.]

[Of course she is,] Castor answered. [What did you expect would happen with the way you two have been going at it? With our race it only takes one time.] He then asked Elios, [Does she even know that you can transform?]

Elios answered, [She saw me transform in the past, but the subject hasn’t come up recently. I’m sure she knows it is still a part of me though. Regardless, I prefer to be in my human form around her.]

The Pegasus snorted. [Of course you do, but you can’t just ignore half your heritage.] Castor sagely advised, [You need to talk with her about it.]

Elios sighed and tiredly said, [Yes, I’ll add it to my “to do” list.]


Continued...

This story was edited and enhanced by the great mind and imagination of Sophia Prester. Her help and ideas have been of great value to me! Thank you Sophia! ^_^

Sophia Prester is also the author or a *wonderful* continuing Sailor Moon fanfic called \"Empire of the Sun\". Her story is very intricate and absorbing and I highly recommend reading it! The most up to date version is on Fanfiction.net . ^_^

Thank you for reading my story. I hope you enjoyed it. If you did like my story, or if you have any (kind and gently worded) suggestions/comments about my story, please let me know. I truly appreciate feedback. You can email me at ndeblock@att.net .

Bye, Luna Hope ^_^

Disclaimer - Sailor Moon and all her friends (except for Prince Terrance Donovan and the Pegasus, Castor - They\'re mine! ^_^ ) don\'t belong to me. They belong to Naoko Takeuchi. I just borrowed them for a little bit of fun.