by The Emperor's Sister
The room was elegant and still. The leather interior remained, for the moment, untouched and cold, much like the owner. He was sitting with his back to the empty space, facing the partially shuttered windows. His closed eyes hidden behind the black glass of his shades. He remained still, pensive, and very disturbing.
The musty air of the cigar smoke and leather soaked room was disturbed by the arrival of a smartly dressed man and an equally stylish woman. behind them, a quivering, pathetic, creature was dragged in on his knees. he stayed, frozen with fear, between the sinister couple, waiting for the turned chair to acknowledge their presence.
"Well Hawkseye, tell him your news." the woman's snide voice broke the silence.
Hawkseye winced as he began his report. "We we tried to off that guy like you ordered s.. sir. Really we did! Threw everything we had at 'em. But.. but.. you see we.."
"You Failed."
"Yes, yes Lord Diamond sir." Hawkseye stuttered, "But if you give me another chance... just one more chance Please sir!"
Diamond snapped his fingers and the goons dragged the pleading Hawkseye from the room.
"Well it seems our little wolf problem is still a problem, doesn't it." Kunzite remarked with a smile.
"Obviously." Esmeraude replied. "He's been very bad for business. Blowing up our warehouses and knocking off our managers. This 'Lone Wolf' is a very naughty puppy that needs to be... disciplined."
"Ideas." bade the toneless voice behind the chair.
"Well the most logical approach is to get the assassin close enough to him to do the job right." Esmeraude pointed out proudly. "So I say we send a woman to do a hit man's job."
"A woman?" Kunzite asked smiling. "Not a man? I heard female assassins have gone after him before and failed. Perhaps he's gay."
Esmeraude glared angrily at her rival. She wanted to be the one to ice Darien and become Diamond's one and only. Having to have to share his attention with a slut was bad enough. Especially since she wasn't allowed to do the bitch any harm. Esmeraude had been in love with Diamond for almost forever. The fact that he had a girlfriend rankled her to the core. Kunzite, who knew of this, loved to push her buttons knowing he was a lot more powerful and closer to Diamond than she was.
"He's not gay." Their boss explained. "He's a predator. He'll not fall for the buxom and loose sex toy that comes his way. He'd see through their act easily. A wolf craves a special mate. We need a 'special' girl."
Kunzite smiled at his boss. 'Figures' he thought, 'he always seems to have all the answers. One day, when he least expects it, fate's gonna turn around and bite him in the ass'.
"Well sir." Kunzite pointed out, "Serena would be the best choice then."
The chair slowly turned and Diamond stared straight through his right hand man. Esmeraude was shocked at her partner's audacity. Imagine telling Diamond his whore has to go out and do their dirty work. Especially knowing that Diamond treats her like a fucking princess.
"She's cute, innocent, and absolutely the last person one would suspect." Kunzite continued. "Besides sir, she had killed before and," Kunzite added with a nervous laugh "if you ask her nicely, how could she refuse!"
Diamond continued to look at Kunzite unsmiling. "You've got balls, Kunzite." He said to their surprise. "Bring her in."
****
"Diana, ring Darien and see if you can track him down, would you." The intercom's voice asked.
"Sure thing Daddy!" Diana piped, before pushing the button that would connect her to 'Lone Wolf's ' cell phone.
"Hello?" a tired, masculine voice asked.
"Darien! Daddy wants to speak to you! I'm putting him through now!"
"Darien? You there?"
"Go ahead Big A. I'm all ears." Darien replied.
"*sigh* At least call me Artemis, I am your friend, as well as your boss. Anyway... how are things, I haven't received your report yet."
"I haven't written it yet." Darien answered.
"What? Darien you do realize we are a legal firm of operations, who do work for the government, and they just can't settle for the facts and details that the news reporters make up on t.v. *sigh*"
"Yeah I hear you. I'll get it done when I have time. Gotta go Big A. later." Darien hung up.
"Darien! Argh!"
****
The private booth secured its occupants from view as well as made sure the couple's conversation remained private.
"So tell me something I don't know Andrew." Darien remarked to his friend.
"Listen Darien, I'm serious. You're dealing with some very big piranhas here. Those goons before may have been a snap for you but they're just getting warmed up. Word is they iced their own guy when he failed to kill you." Andrew sipped his coffee and swallowed a donut whole before continuing. "All I'm saying is you should watch your back."
"These guys are no different than any of the other fish I've had to fry. Soon they'll try to send some slutty chick to seduce and kill me." Darien explained to his blond amigo. "It's like they read it in a book or something." The freelance agent drank deeply as his companion and informant seemed to relax slightly. "By the way Andrew," Darien asked, changing the subject, "How's married life?"
Andrew smiled and laughed; the earlier tension left far behind. "Rita's great! What a cook! I'm bound to get fat just eating there everyday, if I could." Andrew went on and on as Darien tuned him out, slightly depressed.
'I wonder,' he thought, 'whether fate has someone like that for me.'
****
The young blonde sat on the edge of the desk, cognac glass in one hand and bottle in the other. She slowly poured the strong liquor and handed the glass to the man who was addressing her.
"Thank you my pet." Diamond said, toasting the girl before drinking deeply. He drained the glass of its contents before beginning. "Serena darling, I've a small favor to ask you. Do you think you're up to it sweetheart?"
Serena raised her eyebrows, her curiosity peaked. "Hmmm?" she purred, intrigued.
"You recall me mentioning a certain pest causing problems don't you? Well I need someone to get close enough to him and wipe him out." Diamond explained, drawing the girl into his lap. "You're perfect darling. I'd never think of asking you except, who could resist your charms?"
She leaned back as he ran his hands over her body. "So how about it sweetling? Do it for me?"
"Sure Diamond." Serena answered, "What ever you want."
****
Darien swore he must be cursed. There he was sitting at the bar waiting for the obvious pick up that was supposed to spell his doom. He had been in this situation before. Two names and figures jumped into his mind and he almost laughed out loud.
He recalled the very first time this happened to him. Her name was Beryl. She had had more chest than brains. He could still remember her lame pick up line. "I, the dark queen Beryl, have come to kill you Darien Greywolf."
'Like that was supposed to be a turn on?' he thought mockingly. 'She had a laugh that could kill but all in all she was quite pathetic.'
The last assassin had been a childish and absurd thing that swore she loved him, and couldn't kill him, only to end up falling for the next guy, and the next, and the guy after that too. 'Silly Twit' he mused, 'Anne was a real shame but she was also insane enough to be dangerous, and bloody persistent too. Pity, at least she had been fun, even if she had zero fashion sense.'
Darien could feel the feminine presence behind him before he smelt her sweet perfume and before he felt her tap him roughly on the shoulder.
'Here it comes' he thought.
"You're in my seat."
"Huh?" Darien turned around startled.
"I said, you're in my seat." the blonde repeated, irritated.
Darien stared at the cute, petite female before him. She barely came up to his chin and had vibrant blue eyes. Azure blue eyes that seemed more bent on pushing him off the chair than screwing him silly.
'Wow!' Darien thought, appreciating the way her short black skirt hugged her slim waist and hips, revealing nice shapely legs that ended in shiny white half boots. Her chest, encased in a white tube top, was not buxom but just the size to fit in the palm of his hand, he wagered. She had one hand on her waist, impatient, and the other holding a short black jacket over her shoulder. 'Nothing flashy, nothing sinister. This is no assassin.' Darien concluded.
Her tapping foot brought him back to the present. "Oh. Sorry." he apologized and allowed the girl to take his place. Darien took the seat next to her, causing the passed-out patron to fall to the floor, un-noticed.
"So." Darien addressed the stranger. "Come here often?"
The girl looked at him and smiled. "Now THAT is a really old pick up line. Can't you think of a better one?"
Darien blushed furiously. "N. no I.. I mean, ah, about the seat.." he stammered like a young boy.
"Yeah I do." she laughed. "It's the only place that knows if they ask for my ID, I'll never let them hear the end of it. I really hate that," she mused "being taken for a kid and all."
"Well would you let a guy buy you a drink so he can try and save face?" Darien asked relaxing towards the vibrant female.
"Absolutely! Bartender! A glass of Muscatel wine, with ice! and the cute guy's paying'!" she giggled as the bartender poured her drink. "Thanks. By the way, what should I call you?"
Darien smiled, charmed, as she sipped her wine. "I'm Darien Greywolf."
"Serena! Serena Chiba! Nice to meet you Darien!" Serena exclaimed, shaking his hand. "Wanna try?"
Darien looked at the glass she offered before shrugging. "Sure. Why not." Taking a sip he was struck by its smooth sweet flavor and fruity aftertaste. "Good stuff." he commented before ordering a glass for himself.
Time seemed to speed by as the couple talked, laughed, and drank together. Darien didn't want the moment to ever end so he talked her into going out to dinner with him. She agreed, on the terms that he take her to a movie later, and of course, he foot the bill. Darien quickly accepted, and they moved on to a fabulous restaurant that she knew of.
****
Esmeraude followed the pair, her eyes glowing dangerously. 'It'll be so easy. I'll just kill two pests with one blow. That skanky bitch'll be gone and the wolf history. Then Diamond will be mine!'
The assassin rechecked her equipment. A sniper gun and one rocket. 'Not much' she thought, 'but it'll be all I need.'
She sat down to wait.
****
Neo Tokyo’s Happy Wok never before made soo much money, on just one table. Especially when said table had only two customers.
Serena sat back and patted her full stomach. "That was good!"
Darien smiled at the amazing girl across from him. She alone consumed over half the restaurants menu, plus desert. He himself ate very little and now was nursing a cup of coffee, but he couldn't help but marvel at the perky enigma he had attached himself to.
"Come on Darien!" Serena bounced to her feet. "Let's go have fun!"
Almost broke Darien began to wonder how he was supposed to pay for tickets and the snacks she was sure to crave. He began to think fast.
"Ah Serena, please don't take this the wrong way but, I just remembered that their having a Sword and Sorcery Movie-thon on tonight and.. do you want to come back to my place and watch it?" Darien asked quickly, hoping it wouldn't blow up in his face.
"Hmm." she thought, "sounds good to me! Lead on Darien."
Relieved, Darien took Serena to his car and they drove to his spacious apartment.
"Whoa! Nice place you've got here Darien!" Serena said, impressed. She walked through to the balcony and leaned over. "Hey! You've even got a pool! Probably could hit it from here."
"Oh huh. Say, you want something to drink? I've got sherry, or there's coffee."
"What ever's good." she said turning on the big screen t.v. "Oooh it's starting!"
Darien prepared their drinks and watched as his guest got more comfortable on his futon. She had taken off her jacket and her crossed legs were swinging in time to 'Sword of the Valient's theme song. He was having a wonderful time.
As he sat down beside his guest he couldn't help but think how fortunate he'd been today. Instead of having to fight someone to the death, he found a pretty damn good reason for living. He realized then that he was quickly falling for Serena, and he was ecstatic. When Serena turned to face him he couldn't hold back any longer. He leaned in, gazing adoringly into her eyes, and kissed her.
Serena kissed him back. Soon the chaste kiss deepened and grew until the lonely couple were making out like a pair of horny teenagers.
Suddenly Serena pulled away from Darien's embrace, got up and walked out onto the balcony. Darien rose and followed her, feeling both confused and a little ashamed.
"Serena I.. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have rushed you like that. I just.. couldn't help myself. I know we just met and everything but I feel I’ve known you my whole life."
Serena blushed in amazement. Never in her whole entire life had anyone apologized to her before... let alone because he kissed her. "Well... I did kiss you back."
Darien smiled, relieved. "Yeah. And it was fantastic. But I just want you to know that I... OH Hell!!!" Darien spied the missile heading for them and reacted. He picked up the surprised and protesting Serena and jumped off the balcony. The screaming Serena, and Darien, hit the water below seconds before the apartment blew up in flames.
They surfaced gasping for air and as they began swimming towards safety, strange splashed erupted, one after the other, around them.
"Shit a sniper! Quick take cover!" Darien commanded.
Without complaint the drenched Serena scurried to safety, Darien close behind. Darien scanned the area for the shooter and spotted her. 'Damn. Must be that assassin I stood up.' he thought darkly.
The potted plant next to Serena's head exploded, as the bullet meant for her missed by a few inches. Serena squealed in fright as a shower of dirt and porcelain rained on her, and ducked down.
Enraged that someone would dare to harm his Serena, Darien whipped out his Colt Magnum, took aim and fired; he missed his target. Ready to do something drastic he told Serena to get ready to run for the car. Standing he fired off four more shots and they began running. fate was on their side as one of the bullets ricocheted and cut deeply into Esmeraude's arm, giving the fleeing couple enough time to make it to the car and speed off.
Breathing heavily, Serena cursed Esmeraude for trying to kill them and herself for not being able to think up a good way to off this guy herself. A sudden curious thought popped into her head as she turned to face Darien.
"Ah.. I guess I owe you an explanation. You have the right to know." he started.
"Yeah, yeah. I've got rights up to the Wazzu. But first... where'd the gun come from? I didn't notice it.. earlier."
"Oh.. ah.. see.. we didn't get to that part yet." he explained, blushing.
"Oh... okay."
"Where to start." Darien began, "well.. I'm a sort of freelance agent the governments, and sometimes even the police, hire to take care of special problems. Mostly I wipe out organizations that deal with exporting and importing drugs, weapons, and such. They contact my boss, he contacts me, pretty simple. This case though, we've discovered, also deals with terrorists, bombers, and they've also made up plans to dominate capital cities and some countries. That assassin was from them."
"And You know how?" Serena asked.
"Ah see I was kinda going to meet her when we met. Its happened before, but I met you and now, whether you're innocent or not, they're going to try to kill you too." Darien explained. he looked at her apologetically, "Sorry about all this. I never meant for this to happen. There's nothing I can do about it, so we're going to have to lay low for a while."
Serena nodded understanding, as she digested the information. She listened in as he called his boss and explained, briefly, what had occurred. She almost smiled when he blushed at the part concerning her.
Darien hung up his cell phone and turned to Serena, still blushing. "Ah we, my boss that is, has a cover we can use till the heat dies down. Someone else'll probably be taking over my job here but, I've got to make sure you'll be ok. I'll never forgive myself if you're harmed in any way, Serena."
Serena was slightly stunned. Although she expected such an eventual outcome, she never thought it would be so soon. 'I have to be careful around this guy. Esmeraude just made my job harder', so she thought.
"Well.. please don't get mad," Darien continued, "we're going to this quiet, remote island as a.. a.. as honeymooners." he managed to force out and blushed even further.
"Well," Serena said finally, breaking the silence, "This is certainly going to be... interesting."
****
"Explain yourself Esmeraude." Diamond's cold voice commanded.
Esmeraude stood before her displeased employer, one hand clutching a badly bandaged arm. Diamond had forbade her receiving medical assistance, so she had had to do the job herself.
It seemed like hours passed before Esmeraude raised her tear stained eyes to Diamond's.
"I had to." she said, shaking. "Sir I.. Diamond I love you! I'd do anything for you! For us! Please!" she added, taking a step towards him, "give me a chance!"
Diamond lowered him hands to his lap. "I never knew you felt that way Esmeraude." He raised the hidden revolver and, before her startled gaze, blew her brains out over the hard wood floor.
The body fell slowly. Her mouth open in shock, as if she were about to call out his name once more.
Diamond pressed the intercom button to summon his secretary. "Clean up this mess," he told her, "and summon Kunzite."
"Yes sir." the bland female voice answered.
Kunzite arrived just as the cleaning crew finished. "You wanted me sir?"
"Yes. I want you to find Serena and bring her back. If anyone gets in your way, eliminate them." Diamond ordered.
"Yes sir!"
"And Kunzite," Diamond continued, "I want her unharmed. Is that understood."
"Yes sir. Absolutely sir."
****
Darien was getting impatient. He was waiting outside the boutique for Serena, who was presently maxing out his boss' daughter's credit cards. They had to buy a complete, new, wardrobe, and luggage, to complete their alias. And in his opinion, Serena was getting far to into her role.
"Ready!" Serena called out cheerfully as she exited the store, caring several bags. Darien picked up their newly acquired luggage and, in a discreet corner, filled Serena's with her purchases.
"Okay.. lets go." The two hailed a cab and took off for the airport.
****
"So any news, Kitty?" Kunzite spoke into his cell phone.
"Yes." Catsy informed. "just saw her pass by in a taxi with the wolf. My sources told me she took a plane to the islands. They didn't know which one though."
"Excellent work. I can take over from there." Kunzite hung up and smiled.
****
They were about to check into a cosey, three star, hotel, and Darien was getting nervous. Serena had run off to the bathroom, leaving him in line. He got to the front desk and started registering. The woman at the front desk was looking at him oddly until Serena raced up behind him, enveloping him in a hug, and kissed him just under his ear.
"Did you get the room yet honey?" she said giggling like a naughty child and whirling her fingers in his hair. She gave the receptionist a conspiratory wink as Darien managed to groan out "Keys!?"
Smirking, the woman handed the keys to their room over and the bellboy collected their bags. Darien picked Serena up and carried her, squealing and giggling, into the elevator and into their suite.
Kicking the door closed behind them, he set her down on her feet.
"Say Serena could you probably explain.." Darien started, feeling puzzled and quite aroused.
"Huh," Serena paused in her study of the overly romantic room. "Oh well, see Darien, think of it this way. I'm here in a fabulously expensive room, on a free vacation, with, I might add, a very sweet and attractive guy. I'm not about to worry about the unpleasantries, I'm going to have fun and live each day to its fullest." She smiled. "Don't worry about me. I can take care of myself, and I know how to act. I took an acting course once, long ago."
Serena tripped over to her roommate and swung an arm round his shoulders. "You, though, need to loosen up a bit."
Darien smiled and relaxed at her teasing. "You're amazing you know that."
Serena smiled and rewarded him with a small kiss.
****
Serena couldn't sleep. She was lying awake, staring at the ceiling, on her side of the gigantic heart, remembering.
She was running and laughing, carefree. The little girl in her cute school uniform, racing home to show her sister the A+ she got on her very first test.
She rushed inside her house, not paying attention to the big car parked out front, nor the fact that the door was already open.
"LUNA!" her happy little voice called out. "Luna guess what!" she stopped her head-long dash once she had reached her sister's side, and had, literally, ran over one of the unsuspecting villains who had been threatening the violet haired woman.
"Serena." her sister said concerned, and a little shocked at her youthful strength. Luna pushed her sibling behind her. "Serena, get out of here. Run and don't look back. I'll find you later, I promise."
"B.. but Luna."
"I said GO!"
Serena began to retreat, her sister having managed to instill some fear into her young mind.
"Heh, cute kid ya got there Luna." the arrogant leader chuckled. "Come on over goldy, I promise not to hurt you."
"Leave her outta this you bastard." Luna growled.
Serena was quite frightened now. She didn't like the stranger’s smile, nor the way his eyes seemed so cold. She whimpered her sister's name one more time before bolting to the back door.
"After her!" the red haired man cried. His goons leapt forward into the chase as Luna was left behind to do battle with their boss.
Serena ran as fast as her little legs could carry her, out the back door and into the yard. One of her pursuers attempted to tackle her but missed. His older partner rushed around to block the far gate. She was trapped. Serena growled, childishly, at her assailants, when they began to move towards her.
"Okay Ail, I'll keep her from escaping while you grab the little brat." the older, frost eyed, goon said as he blocked her way.
Ail picked himself up, glaring at his comrade, before making his move. he rushed Serena and grabbed her by the waist. Serena struggled, kicking and hitting, like an angry cat.
"Arg, Fiore lend a hand." Ail ordered, and the other left his post to pitch in. Serena landed a lucky kick to Fiore's head and bit Ail's hand. With a twin yelp of pain the two dropped their charge and she was free.
Serena wasted no time, and ran down the side of the house. She was almost clear when an arm shot out and grabbed her by the back of her uniform.
Her previous attackers hurried over to where their boss had captured their prey.
"Sorry Rubeous, she's a regular hellcat, she is." they apologized.
"That's okay." Rubeous smirked. "She'll be worth a pretty penny, I've no doubt."
Serena struggled to no end as the tossed her into their car and drove off.
"Where's my sister you bully!" Serena cried.
"Forget about it kid. You're an only child now." Rubeous laughed.
Serena bitterly recalled being sold, like a slave, to a burlesque house. How the woman in charge looked at her with cold, calculating eyes. She reminded Serena of a vicious wolf. 'Not like the one I've got now though' she thought, smiling. 'Though Haruna wasn't soo bad.'
Serena looked around her new room, trembling and near to tears. A soft knock came and a petite brunette bounced into the room.
"Oh.. so this is the New Girl." the girl said, brandishing a Portuguese accent. "You can call me Gina, but only if you tell me your name."
"S.. Serena. Serena Chiba."
"Well Serena I've got good news and bad news. The bad news is Bananu, Lady Haruna's cuz saw you come in and he's going to be your first customer. The good news is this," The Portuguese woman tossed her a small silver vile. "It's a special mixture, that I call 'Silver Crystal'. One drop and they're out like a light. Trust me, you'll need it. later."
After she had gone Serena was left to contemplate the poison. Within moments the door burst open and a young, green haired boy entered.
"Hello sweet thang." he laughed. "Pour me a drink would ya. We've got all night to get... aquatinted."
Serena despised him on sight, and didn't move.
Bananu eyed her wickedly. "You know they don't call me hellmaster for nuthin'." He walked over and made himself comfortable on the divan. "Now Move Your Skinny Little Ass!"
Serena moved. She seemed to be transformed inside. Like she was no longer a human girl but a super heroine. The super heroine knew he would be trouble for Serena, for the rest of her life. Super heroine knew things beyond anyone's imaginings, and how to deal with them. The super heroine used Serena's strong little body to pour Bananu's drink and spill half of the 'Silver Crystal's contents inside. She gave the glass to the evil boy , who swallowed death greedily. And Serena was safe.
'My first kill.' Serena thought. 'After that I got the recipe and started inventing my own mixtures, 'Therapy Kiss', 'Tiara Action', etc. Different poisons for different trials. I felt like a bloody senshi of some sort. I never used the 'Silver Crystal' again. Watching him die was just too horrible.' she mused.
Serena rolled over and watched her bed mate sleep. 'He's so sweet. A real gentleman. I beet he'd never ask me to kill anyone. maybe he'd even ... understand.'
****
Kunzite reclined in his first class seat, paying only scant attention to the in-flight movie. 'Soon' he mused, 'soon I'll have Serena again. We made such a fun couple.'
He remembered how, one fateful day, he visited his old mentor and saw her standing in the corner, blue eyes flashing, scaring some impertinent rich boy out of his mind.
'Imagine thinking she was a meatball-headed nobody. She's a demon queen, wild and exciting.' He remembered how on their first night together she stood up to him. most woman knew of his reputation and cowered with fear. Most, but not Serena. No she beat the crap outta him, and he loved it. 'And I used to think torturing some poor soul was great! Oh Serena how you knew me better. Our glorious battles together! Damn Diamond and his meddling, but no matter... in the end there can be only one who can claim you. And it's going to be me.'
****
Darien walked down the street daydreaming, for the very first time in his life. he had awaken to the sight of Serena snuggled in his arms. He blushed as he remembered wishing he could wake up that way every morning, for the rest of his life. With a sigh he finally admitted "Oh God... I'm in Love!"
A slight skip was added to his step and he began to smile. Never in his whole life had he ever imagined feeling this way, before. His every waking thought was of the mischievous female. Her smile, her vibrant nature, the way she could put away a seven course meal and not gain an ounce of fat. He paused to survey the wares in a shop's window and grinned.
Darien entered the store and left with his purchase securely hidden in his pant's pocket.
****
Serena rose from the bed and stretched. She moved into the bathroom, undressing on the way, and started the shower. When it was hot enough she entered and began to wash away the sleep that still clung to herself. As her body relaxed, her mind continued to recall episodes from her past.
She was standing, defiant, in the corner, ignoring the room's occupants. She recalled some stuck up brat commenting on her hair do and practically exploding on the insensitive prick, when Gina came up to her looking ill-at-ease.
"Listen Serena... you've gotten yourself in some hot water now. I can't explain but.. you have to be Strong. Do you hear me? Strong!" With the cryptic message delivered, she departed leaving the baffled Serena behind.
Serena leaned her head against the wall, letting the soothing water run down her back. 'Haruna sure clued me in after that.' she thought, wishing the hot shower could cleanse her of her memories as well.
The malicious owner sauntered over to Serena. "Well Serena dearest you've got a very special customer waiting for you." Her eyes became cold and her voice serious. "I want none of your games girl. trust me, if you try anything, it'll be the last thing you ever do."
Haruna grabbed Serena's arm and dragged her to her room. She tossed Serena inside and locked the door behind her.
The room was furnished in dark purples and velvets. It was a room reserved for 'special' patrons, a room she had never been in before. As she looked about she realized she wasn't alone. Seated comfortably, a smiling gray eyed man sipped his wine and studied her. He had long platinum hair to his shoulders and dressed in a dark gray suit. One that set off the silvery tone of his hair.
"My my, you're even lovelier up close. Why don't you come on over here and we can get better acquainted."
"Drop dead." Serena growled and stood her ground. The young man smiled even more as he rose to meet her.
"Now Serena darling, that not very polite." Serena still didn't move, only eyed him with caution. "Well I guess I do have the advantage here. My name is Kunzite. You can call me master, if you like."
"Ha! Fat chance." She struck out at Kunzite, catching him by surprise and with a fierce punch, knocked him to the floor. Before he could react she had him in a head lock and began choking the life outta him. "Now's who's the master around here, Kunzite."
Kunzite flipped the angry girl onto her back. She was so shocked she didn't even see how he managed such a feat; and allowed Kunzite to steal a kiss.
"I guess we could share the title darling." He smiled, enraging her even more.
"DIE! YOU SLIMEBALL!" Serena screamed landing another punch and began to beat the crap out of him.
She was stopped by Haruna, who yanked her off the still smirking Kunzite, by her hair. He dusted himself off and stood. "Now Haruna why'd you interrupt. We were enjoying ourselves immensely. Weren't we Serena darling?"
"Well I sure was." she grimaced as Haruna' hand clenched her hair tighter in surprise.
"Excellent. Pack your things love, I'll be around to pick you up later. There's no way I'm leaving my precious Serena in a place like this." he grinned, "No offence Haruna."
Serena got out of the shower and dried herself off. Wrapping herself in a bright pink robe, she walked into the bedroom to get dressed.
"Honey! I'm home!" Darien called laughing. "I've always wanted to say that."
Darien stuck his head into the bed room and spied Serena in her underwear. "Ah sorry." he blushed and quickly turned around.
Serena giggled and bounced over to the embarrassed young man. "Say, Darien dahling." she purred. "What do you think of my new lingerie?"
She had thought long and hard, and concluded that, live or die, she was going to have the wolf, at least once. Darien turned to face her, still blushing furiously.
"It's very n.. nice." he stuttered.
"Just nice?" she pouted, "Well I have more. How would you feel if I modeled them for you."
"I’d feel like I'd died and gone to heaven." he blurted out and blushed another shade of red.
'This is the first time I've ever seen a guy blush like this before.' Serena mused, 'it's... cute.' And she proceeded in her seduction until the two of them could stand the foreplay no longer and went on to make proper use of the suite's facilities.
****
Serena brushed her hair, lazily recalling the night before. She stopped and glanced over at the ring sparkling from her finger. She heard the door open and thinking Darien had returned called out. "Hey did you get the food? I'm starving!"
"Sorry Serena darling." a deadly familiar voice answered.
Serena set the brush down, her face showing no emotion as she turned.
"Well you should have known better."
Kunzite smiled from the doorway.
"So Kunzite how'd you find me?" she asked.
Kunzite strided up to where she was sitting and placed his finger lightly on her lips. "Now that, my dear, is a secret."
Serena punched Kunzite in the gut and he bowled over, gasping in pain. "I hate it when you say that."
"And I love it when you play rough." he smiled. "So Serena darling, where's the body guard?"
"Hmm? You mean Darien? He's getting food."
"Kunzite looked slightly surprised then smiled evilly. "Oh really. So the little puppy is taking care of you.. now isn't that cute. Looks like you were on the road to success after all."
Serena smirked and raised her left hand. "He proposed. That means where ever you take me, he'll be sure to follow."
"Oh Diamond's gonna love this." Kunzite laughed.
****
Darien was dancing on cloud nine. He was whistling and skipping down the hall to his and Serena’s room, a takeout bag swinging from one hand.
A dark tingling trickled down his spine as he got to the door but he pushed the feeling aside. He swung open the door and was about to call out Serena’s name when the white haired villain smirked and fired.
Darien went down like a rock. Stunned and hurt his last thought was of the golden haired vixen before, oblivion.
"Night night Wolfy-kins." Kunzite snickered.
****
Serena sat on her bed thinking as Diamond walked up behind her and lay a possessive hand on her shoulder.
"It's good to have you back sweet heart." Diamond murmured as he nuzzled her neck.
"Mmm?" Serena leaned back into his embrace.
"I'm going to take you some place nice tonight but right now, I've got work to do." he said kissing her. "So dress nice."
Diamond left the room leaving her alone with her thoughts.
She was lounging on the red velvet sofa. Kunzite had brought her here to help him 'House Sit' for his boss. She had never seen him before, but could very well imagine what a cold-hearted bastard he most likely was. He employed and befriended, if one could call it that, Kunzite after all.
Serena began to tense up remembering how Kunzite was getting more fierce and pretty soon he'd want more from her than she was willing to give. She thought of using one of her 'Gorgeous Meditations' on him but knew it wouldn't last very long and he'd only get pissed off at her. She was trapped, and had no idea what to do.
"Oh God help me!" she prayed.
As if contrary to her wishes, Kunzite walked into the room, a twisted smile plastered to his face and an evil sparkle in his eyes.
Serena rose to her feet and prepared to fight a battle she was sure to lose. She took the initiative and threw a cup at him, hoping to distract him enough so she could run. It failed. As she jumped over the coffee table, Kunzite grabbed her arm, twisting it painfully behind her. With a swift punch she was knocked to the floor. Kunzite kneeled beside her and when she began to rise, slapped her hard, bringing tears to her eyes.
Serena knew she had lost and felt Kunzite breath into her ear, "You're mine now Serena darling." She elbowed him sharply, earning another powerful slap across the face.
"Kunzite stop that at once." a cold, unfeeling voice commanded.
Kunzite jumped to his feet in surprise. "Diamond! You're back earlier than expected."
Serena strained to see threw her misting eyes, her hair spilled over her face from the recent tussle.
"Quite." Diamond stated. "You can go now Kunzite."
Kunzite spared Serena a glance before departing, unsmiling, as quickly as he could.
Diamond marched over to the softly weeping girl and drew her hair back. Serena tensed as he lightly touched her face, and wiped away her tears. he helped her to her feet and removed his shades, placing them in the pocket of his suit. "How lovely." he murmured, smiling softly, and walked to the mini bar to get her some ice.
Serena slumped down on the sofa feeling stunned and confused. 'He's so.. nice.' she thought, as Diamond applied the ice pack with gentle hands. Serena relaxed.
"There really is no reason to be afraid. I wont let anyone hurt you, if you like." his calm voice seemed hypnotic to the lost and hurt Serena. Under normal circumstances she would have taken those words to mean nothing, but Diamond was different. He was clam, sincere, and powerful. She felt like she had finally, after all she'd been through, found her prince.
'I wonder if that's why I slept with him that night.' Serena pondered. 'It had seemed so right at the time.'
'I cried in his arms after he healed me. I felt warm and cared for. Safe. Almost like a child again.' she sighed.
****
Darien's head was buzzing. He swore he must have eaten his pillow or something, it was the only way his poor befuddled brain could analyze all the tranquilizer's side effects. Slowly he opened his eyes to see the same smirking jackass from the hotel room. Darien became aware that his arms were tied behind him, and he was slumped, uncomfortably in a chair.
"Wakey wakey! Did my little wolfy have a nice nap?" Kunzite giggled, causing the two lackeys in the room to parrot him.
"Where's Serena." Darien growled, un-amused.
"Oh Serena darling's around somewhere." Kunzite smiled.
"What have you done to her!"
Kunzite laughed, clearly amused by Darien’s questions. "Oh Serena darling and I have done PLEANTY of things together wolf. My my.. does Darien here have a little crush on her? Oh how cute." Kunzite mocked, infuriating Darien further.
Darien glared dangerously at Kunzite. "If you've touched her in any way I'll kill you." his voice cold with promise.
Kunzite, smiling, walked over to Darien and tapped him on the nose. "I don't normally kiss and tell, but I’ve done more than TOUCH My Serena, Darien Greywolf. Things you'll never get to even dream of doing, ever again."
Darien snapped. With in-human strength, he broke free of his bonds and lunged at Kunzite. The two goons jumped forth and separated them. Darien struggled like a man possessed and drew the gun that Kunzite had been carrying, firing the stealth c-4000. the bullets seemed to tears giant holes in their guts and blood spurted all over. The lackeys went down in 2 shots, leaving Kunzite in the angry Darien’s grasp.
Darien tightened his grip on Kunzite' throat and pointed the firearm at his head. "Tell me where she is." he growled savagely.
Kunzite snickered. "You're a fool you know that. She played you like a fucking violin, you stupid puppy."
Darien pulled the trigger, killing Kunzite and stopping him from continuing. 'Serena' he thought despertly, the sound of running footsteps could be heard rushing towards the room.
****
'My first time was with Diamond. He had been considerate and kind.' Serena thought, despairingly.
"Ms. Chiba." a voice intruded.
"Mmm? Yes?" Serena turned to the dark haired woman.
"You are summoned, Ms Chiba."
"Ah. Thank you." As the woman turned to go, Serena called back. "Thank you.. for everything Gina."
The Portuguese woman smiled. "Anytime Serena." and left.
Serena looked herself over in the mirror and, making a decision, left to meet Diamond.
****
Darien was pushed to his knees by two grim giants. He was in pain, but his only care was for the sunny haired female whose location still remained a mystery.
'That must be their boss.' Darien thought as he glared at the man seated before him.
"So this is Darien Greywolf." Diamond spoke. "You've been quite the thorn in my side. Disrupting my business. Murdering my right hand man."
"Where's Serena."
Diamond smiled, slightly. "She's coming, don't you fret; and I do believe she has a special surprise for you."
The door opened and the soft click of heels could be heard entering the room.
"Ah there you are my sweet. Come here, I have someone I'd like to introduce to you." Diamond bade.
"Of course Diamond." Serena shashade over to Diamond and kissed him. She sat on the edge of the desk, the black silk of her dress riding up to show her shapely calves.
"Serena my sweet. This is Darien Greywolf."
Darien felt his world fall apart. he stared in shock at the women he'd fallen in love with, sworn he'd protect, and risked everything for. 'All this time...' his brain repeated uselessly. A single tear rolled down his face as his poor heart shattered into pieces.
"Serena" he whispered and looked away.
Diamond laughed at the pitiful Darien. "Don't feel so bad Darien. She was the perfect weapon against you." he mocked running a hand down her arm. "For no man could resist her charms."
Serena smiled at Diamond, amused by his joke. "Serena, sweet heart, pour me something would you?"
"Sure Diamond. Whatever you like." she purred and scooted off the desk towards the small table holding the brandy. Darien’s eyes followed her, as if against his will. She poured a healthy glass and carried it over to Diamond.
"Cheers." he toasted Darien, before downing the liquid. "Now Darien, you're in for a real treat. For you executioner will be non other than the lovely Serena herself."
Diamond opened the desk drawer and removed the small handgun, handing it over to the waiting female. She checked the Couger D Mini, handling it to her satisfaction, and began her slow march over to Darien.
Darien closed his eyes and bowed his head in defeat.
"Serena." Diamond’s soft voice called out. Serena turned to see him standing on his feet, clutching his chest in pain. He called her once more before he collapsed.
"Diamond!" Serena cried, and turning to the guards shouted, "Don't just stand there your Fools! HELP HIM!!"
The guards jumped at her angry command and rushed past, forgetting their charge. Darien opened his eyes in shock and saw Serena turn, aim the gun, and firing two shots, kill the henchmen dead.
"Darien" she cried, snapping him out of his daze.
"Serena? Wha?"
"Come on Darien, let's go!" she ordered, dragging him to his feet and out of the room.
"But.. but.. but Serena how? Why?" Darien continued, desperate for her answer.
"Darien really. Do you think I'd agree to marry just anyone?" she smiled.
Darien smiled back, and the couple hurried to make their escape, leaving behind a cold, elegant room. It's stillness complete, and leather interior decorated with three corpses and a small empty silver vile.
****
"Diana, ring Darien and see if you can track him down would you." the intercom's voice asked.
"Sure thing Daddy!" Diana piped before pushing the button that would connect her to Darien’s cell phone.
"Hello?" a satisfied, masculine voice asked.
"Darien! Daddy wants to speak to you! I'm putting him through now!"
"Darien? You there?"
"*sigh* Yeah, I'm here." Darien replied.
"Good, now listen Darien, I know you did a great job on that last assignment but..."
"Excuse me." a feminine voice intruded on the other line.
"Wha? Who is this?"
"Serena Greywolf. Darien’s wife." Serena answered.
"Serena? Darien’s What?"
"His WIFE! Now if you don't mind," Serena added with an evil giggle, "we're trying to enjoy our honeymoon."
Male and female laughter could be heard before the cell was hung up and turned off.
"Well." Artemis said, stunned. "That was certainly... interesting."
The End.