From: Sailor Pluto To: Subject: [neosenshi] Fanfic: Birth of Freedom Date: Tuesday, July 04, 2000 9:20 PM Neo Senshi ML - http://www.angelfire.com/anime/motoki Konichiwa, minna. I would like to take this opportunity to wish all American moonies a Happy 4th of July! I have written this story special for this holiday and I hope you all enjoy it. Arigatou, Sailor Pluto ------------------------ "Birth of Freedom" by: Sailor Pluto Rating: PG-13 for mild violence and implied adult content ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ *FLASHBACK* Spring,1774 Serenity Talbot stretched her back for a moment to give it a rest. Gathering flowers sure was a big job. She was joined by by her four best friends: Amy Anderson, Rebekah Harris, Elizabeth Kent, and Mina Andrews. All gathered together to show each other what they had picked. They had no idea they were being watched. Out sprang four boys, each carrying a large jug. Serenity recognized them immediately as Matthew Foster, Gregory Davidson, Thomas Chadwick, and the biggest troublemaker to ever walk the face of the Earth, Darien Shields. "Good afternoon, ladies," Darien announced. "Darien Shields you no good bully," Serenity scoffed. "What do you want?" "Do you ladies remember the Boston Tea Party?," Matthew said with a smirk. "May we offer you some tea?!," Darien shouted. At that, the four jugs of ice cold tea came down on the five girls' heads and dresses, followed by a chorus of laughter from the boys. Before they could turn to run, Serenity ran up to Darien and landed her fist across his left eye. When Darien recovered from the blow, he shouted,"Retreat!," and the boys went running back down the field. *FLASHBACK* Winter,1776 Serenity saw the grieving face of the young boy as he passed through the Talbot front gate. Serenity remembered the words of her father a few days before: "Darien Shields' father has died of tuberculosis. As you well know, his mother died many years ago in childbirth with what would have been Darien's brother or sister. I have agreed to take him in as my apprentice. I know you do not like him very well, Serenity, but you must be kind to him and respect him. He has place else to go and he really needs a good friend right now." Darien sat alone in his new room. He did not hear Serenity walk into the room. Upon seeing her, he turned his head away. Serenity saw his reaction, and quietly crept to his side and sat next to him on the bed. "I want to help you," she said in a soft tone. "What help can you be?," Darien asked fighting tears. "You can tell me how wonderful he was," Serenity replied. "Well...he dreamed about living in freedom...," Darien started. "...and he told me how beautiful my mother was...the last thing he said to me was that...h-he was sure I w-would g-grow up to be courageous and strong!," Darien cried, as he could no longer hold in his tears. "You are courageous and strong," Serenity told him. "How can I be?" "You can cry in front of someone who once gave you a black eye." Darien then laughed and cried at the same time. After he calmed down, Serentiy handed him her handkerchief. "Thank you," Darien sniffed as he studied the embroidered red rose on it, next to the letters S.L.T., initials for Serenity Luna Talbot. *End Flashback* ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ August, 1779. Williamsburg, Virginia. In front of the Talbot house. Serenity stared at the charming lad, now 18 years old, in his new Continental uniform. He looked handsomer now than he ever did, with his hair tied back in a queque (Colonial equivalent for ponytail), and his tri-cornered hat covering it. She could see his royal blue eyes filled with determination and sorrow at the same time. Finally, he came up to her and embraced her. "I promise I will write you, Serenity," Darien whispered in her ear. "Also promise you will come back to us safely," Serenity added, holding her tears. "I will," Darien promised. "Because I could never ask for a better friend than you." Serenity let one tear fall as he let go. He turned to his waiting companions. As he mounted his horse, Serenity let more tears fall. Serenity's father, Stephen Talbot, called,"Farewell, my boy, and God speed! May he bring you back to us safely!" Then he and his companions rode off down the road. ~*~*~~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Dec. 10,1779 Dearest Serenity, They work us hard here in Richmond. We are mostly trained for manual labor. Other times, we practice shooting at targets with our muskets, and they teach us how to properly wield a sword. The coming winter makes work even harder. The good news is that I have met some friendly companions here. Captain James Kunzite and Corporal Robert Nephrite are from Williamsburg as well as I. Corporal Jonathan Zoisite jons us from Yorktown, and Corporal Benjamin Jadeite is from right here in Richmond. More good news is that we shall be in Williamsburg for Christmastide as a ball is being held there on New Year's Eve in our honor. I would be honored if you would accompany me to the ball. You could meet my new friends as they are eager to meet you. Perhaps you could be so kind as to finds some female escorts for them for the ball. I look forward to seeing you again. Yours, Corporal Darien Shields Serenity's heart jumped as she read. She had the perfect four friends to be escorts...and she was going to a ball with Darien! She was so excited, a squeal forced it's way out of her lungs, startling her brother, Samuel, who was sitting across the parlor. He gave her a weird look, but she ignored him and ran out the front door to tell her friends. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ New Year's Eve. Williamsburg Town Hall. Serenity saw the carriage door open to reveal a silvery white covered walkway, leading to a large, two-story building she barely recognized as the Town Hall. The building was beautifully decorated with evergreens and holly, topped with icicles hanging form the roof. As she and her friends stepped out, Serenity noticed a group of five uniformed men, and her heart jumped. She could hear it beat louder as she approaches the tall, jet black-haired man, who was extending out a glove covered hand to her. "Serenity Talbot...," Darien stumbled for words. She wore a cream colored gown, beautifully lined with gold brocade stitching. "...you look so extraordinary that...," he continued. Serenity crumpled a smile, trying not to laugh. "...that...you are making a soldier stumble over his words!," Darien laughed, noticing what a fool he looked like. The others joined in his laughing. "Ladies...May I introduce Capt. James Kunzite, Corp. Jonathan Zoisite, Corp. Robert Nephrite, and Corp. Benjamin Jadeite," Darien announced as the men bowed. "Gentleman...May I present your escorts for the evening: Miss Mina Andrews, Miss Amy Anderson, Miss Elizabeth Kent, and Miss Rebekah Harris," Serenity added as the ladies curtsied. "I am Miss Serenity Talbot, and I am pleased to meet you all." "The pleasure is all ours," Robert replied. "Shall we?," Darien asked, offering his arm to Serenity. "We shall," Serenity answered, as she and Darien led the others inside. Inside, the halls and staircases were well lit up with millions of candles in chandeliers and lanterns. Each table was elegantly draped with burgundy tablecloth, and was covered with ornate candelabras, suculant meats, and rich sweets. "It looks like heaven," Serenity mused. "Very close, since I am standing next to an angel," Darien replied. Darien smiled as Serenity blushed. String quartets serenaded the guests with minuets and contradances, while a harpsichord sprinkled out the latest sonatas. Serenity was overwhelmed with enchantment, she didn't know if she could handle anymore. Darien saw the enchantment in her eyes and knew it was the appropriate time. He brushed his lips lightly against her silky cheek and whispered for her to follow him outside. When they reached the door that lead to the balcony, Serenity looked back and saw how much her friends enjoyed being with the soldiers: Rebekah was demonstrating how she could play the harpsichord to Benjamin, Mina and James were out on the dance floor, Amy and Jonathan were sitting and talking, and Elizabeth and Robert were sharing drinks. "They are so happy," she said, turning to Darien. "This was a wonderful idea, Darien. Thank you. This is the most marvelous time I have ever had." "I'm glad," Darien replied. "I am just happy to see you again. Being in training has made me miss you so, that I want to tell you how i really feel about you." He lowered to a kneel. "Serenity Talbot, I love you, and have for so long. I wish to spend all my life with you...and I would be the most fortunate man alive, if you would take me as your husband." Serenity felt her body cave in, and collapsed into Darien's waiting arms, and pressed her lips firmly to his mouth. Darien caught her and cradled her body. As her mouth released from his, he asked,"Will you?" Serenity nodded with a smile beyond smiles and replied, "And a million times over." Darien returned her kiss with more force than before. Not long after, the two of them laughed at how silly they must have looked. Darien helped Serenity to her feet. "I too, love you, Darien Shields, and have for so long." Darien once again pressed her lips to his. Gunshots were heard in the background to ring in the New Year. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ March, 1780. An Anglican church in Williamsburg. Serenity's POV- I turn to my left and see my best friends in all their usual colors: Amy in royal blue, Rebekah in crimson red, Elizabeth in forest green, and Mina in spring peach. They all smile at me. I turn around to see my parents, Stephen and Isabella, their eyes glowing with tears. I turn to my right and spy four uniformed men, and the heavenly figure beside me. I turn to look at the priest as we rise and I thank God for letting me live to experience this day. There is no greater moment than this... the reverend says,"What God has joined together, let no man put assunder." My Darien looks at me straight in the eyes, and brings me in, completely, to him. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ One week later. The Talbot House. Serenity and Darien once again find themselves in the same positions as when they first bid each other farewell. Darien holds his conscription notice in his hand, stating that he is being sent to South Carolina, under General Gates' command. Darien once more turns to Serenity with sorrowful eyes. He leans in as they share a final kiss. Serenity lets her tears flow freely. Darien wipes them away with the handkerchief Serenity had loaned him many years ago. He places it in his pocket, and turns to the gate once more. He rides away, blowing a kiss behind him. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ From Camden, South Carolina: Aug.16th,1780 Dear Mrs. Serenity Shields, It is with my deepest regret to inform you that your husband, Darien Shields, has been badly wounded and is in critical condition. He suffered a severe bullet wound to his shoulder. Fortunately, his juggular vein was not damaged, but he remains unable to fight. He will be sent back to you in Williamsburg, by carriage and will arrive within a week. He requires much care. I also ask of you to pray for the souls of Corp. Jonathan Zoisite and Corp. Benjamin Jadeite, as they have fallen in battle. I regret to inform you and your friends of this terrible tragedy. My humbleset condolences to your friends Rebekah and Amy. Forgive me for having to be the bearer of ill news. All my respect to you. Please see that Darien recovers soon. Sincerely, Captain James Kunzite ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ September 20,1780. Williamsburg, Virginia. "No, no!," Serenity cried. "You can't go back!" "Serenity, I must," Darien repied sternly. "I have been called to serve under General Washington." "How did they find out that you have recovered?," she cried, again. "I wrote them about a week ago," Darien said with shame in his face. "Darien...why? What if you get hurt again? What if you don't survive this time?!," Serenity screamed through tears. "That is a risk I will have to take...my father once had a dream to live in freedom. Wouldn't you want to live in freedom?! Wouldn't you want our children to live in freedom?!" Serenity was silent for a moment. "So you'll die to honor your father?!" "No," Darien said as he grasped her shoulders. "I'll die to protect those that I love...and I love you more than any creature on Earth." "You made a promise to me that you would come back to me safely," Serenity cried. "Why are you risking breaking that promise?!" "Because, the war is at a turning point now, Serenity. We are going to win, I can feel it!," Darien replied, pulling her in closer. Then he said to her softly, "And if God does not let me keep my promise..., then I will leave something her with you...so that a part of me will be with you always." Serenity froze stiff and blushed, her eyes locked with Darien's. Darien moved in and kissed her softly. Serenity returned his offer by wrapping her arms around his neck and held his head as she kissed him passionately. Darien embraced his wife, holding her waist tightly, returning every kiss she gave him with equal force. Then Darien broke away and took Serenity's arm, leading her upstairs. Darien led her into his room and sat on his bed, beginning to remove his shirt. Serenity followed him, loosening the stays on her bodice. As the two of them sat there, Serenity reached behind Darien's neck, taking his hair out of its queque. Darien responded by removing Serenity's mob cap, allowing her golden hair to fall freely and cascade down her body. They kissed again as they sank down on the bed, Darien positioning himself above Serenity. Darien ran his fingers through her many strands of gold as Serenity caressed his face and neck. Darien planted kisses on her forehead, then worked his way down to her neck, stopping just above her chest. Finally, Darien noticed the longing look in his wife's eyes, and the trembling in her lips, welcoming his own to them, and he gave in to their command. As he met Serenity's lips, he pulled the covers from his bed over both of them. Serenity awoke the next morning to finds herself in bed alone. She jumped out of bed, threw on a nightshift, and ran downstairs, frantically searching for her husband. Upon entering the parlor, she saw anote addressed to her with a red rose next to it. She did not read it, but clasped it to her heart, sank to her knees, and wept over the rose. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ December,1780. A battle camp in Pennsylvania. As Darien slept, he thought only of Serenity. His peace was suddenly interuptted with a bright light, and a woman dressed in white with silver hair, nearly blinding him. "Are you an angel? Am I already dead?," Darien asked. "No, and you must not die, Darien," said the woman in a haunting voice. "Your wife is with child, and you must be there to be a father to your child. You must not abandon them." Then the woman dissappeared. Darien awoke sweating. He sprang out of his tent only to see the silvery white light of the full moon pouring down on his face. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Dec.25,1780 Dearest Serenity, Merry Christmas my love. The winter here is harsh, but thoughts of you comfort me daily. I hear talk of our army moving to the south. Gen. Washington and Gen. LaFayette are expecting French troops to arrive soon. They are planning a campaign at Yorktown, and Cornwallis is moving up the coast. I must warn you to leave Williamsburg as soon as possible, as Cornwallis is supposed to pass through there. Seek refuge in Richmond or Charlottesville. Promise me you will keep yourself safe, so that our child will be born healthy. Serenity, my love, if our child is born a girl, I ask that she be named after you. I love you, my angel. Yours, Corp. Darien Shields ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ July 4th,1781 Dear Darien Shields, We are pleased to inform you that your wife, our daughter, gave birth to a beautiful, healthy baby girl on June 30th, 1781. Serenity Liberty Shields is a healthy 9 lbs., and has deep brandy red eyes. We would also like to thank you for your warning. We have been staying the past few months in Richmond. Please send all future letters to the Dogwood Inn in Richmond. We look forward to your return. Sincerely, Stephen and Isabella Talbot ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Oct.19,1781 Dearest Serenity, The war is over! We have won our freedom! Cornwallis surrendered to Gen. Washington this morning. I watched as Cornwallis' second in command passed Cornwallis' sword to Gen. Washington's second in command Gen. Lincoln. I am pleased to announce that I will be returning home in December. It is like forever till then. I long for the day that I may hold you again, and hold our new daughter. Yours forever, Darien ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ December 25th, 1781. Williamsburg, Virginia. Serenity sat at the window watching the snow fall as she embroidered a handkerchief for her daughter. It felt good to be home, but something was missing. Amy was singing above the baby's cradle, with Rebekah playing a lullaby from her fiddle. Elizabeth was in the kitchen, cooking with Isabella. Mina walked in the door with a strange puppetlike toy. "Look what I have for you, little girl!," Mina cooed. "Thank you, Mina," Serenity said. "That is sweet of you." "I made it myself," Mina beamed. Serenity laughed and looked back out the window, this time seeing something that was not there before. She thought this was a dream. She ran from the window, up to the door, opening it and closing it behind her. The girls watched her from the window. Serenity looked into the eyes of a boy she once knew, now a man. Dressed in a uniform that had been worn out from many battles, the man bowed to the woman. "Darien?," she whispered. He rose and said, "I am here, my angel." Serenity froze for a moment, but her body forced her to run to the waiting arms of her love. "Oh, how I have missed you so!," she said, through tears of joy. "It has been too long!," Darien said, crying with her. "I will never leave you again, I promise!," he said before kissing her. "Congratulations, Darien," said a deep voice from behind Darien. It was James Kunzite, accompanied by Robert Nephrite. "Oh, I am sorry! Serenity, may we have a few guests for Christmas?!," Darien stammered. "Of course, welcome Mr. Kunzite and Mr. Nephrite. Come inside before you all catch cold." As the officers entered, the room erupted with endless hugs and chatter. Serenity took Darien by the arm, leading him to the cradle. Darien's eyes teared as a pair of brandy red eyes stared back at him. Darien picked up the little girl as she cooed. "This is your daddy," Serenity whispered. "She's beautiful, Serenity," Darien whispered, kissing his wife. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Five years later. The 10th Anniversary of July 4th. Little Reenie ran across the field towards her parents with a big bouquet of wild flowers. "Is it gonna start soon?," she asked her father. "Yes, very soon. Are you excited?!," Darien responded. "Uh huh, this is for you, Daddy, but you have to give some to Mommy," Reenie said. "I promise," Darien said, kissing his daughter. Then he turned to his wife. "For you, by command of your daughter," he said, giving her some of the bundle. "Mommy, will my little sister or brother have red eyes like me?," Reenie asked. "Would you like to ask them?," Serenity said. "Okay," said Reenie, pressing her ear to her mother's womb. "They said they are going to have blue eyes, just like yours." Serenity and Darien smiled at their daughter. Serenity looked at the people gathered around her: Amy watched as Gregory held their three year old son up high, Mina and James were just arriving at the field, Elizabeth and Robert were lying down in the grass, and Rebekah was attempting to appreciate Thomas' singing to her. "I owe all of this to you, Darien," Serenity whispered. "I guess I never told you how proud I was of you for fighting for our freedom. I love you, my soldier." Darien and Serenity shared a kiss as the explosions from fireworks and rifles could be heard in the distance. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ THE END ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Thanks for reading! I apologize for the slight inaccuracies in history. I did the best I could with just one day of research. Once again, Happy July 4th to all! A patriotic Sailor Pluto ________________________________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free E-mail from MSN Hotmail at http://www.hotmail.com ______________________________________________________________________ To unsubscribe, write to neosenshi_ml-unsubscribe@listbot.com Start Your Own FREE Email List at http://www.listbot.com/links/joinlb