Sailor Cynic: Jedaite's Tale By Beky NeRichnead Preview: Lose yourself… in THE MATRIX. Author’s Rant: I own no real SM characters, but since they’re not the same anyway, it doesn’t matter! Mwahahaha! [Op Song: Stand by Me, revised somewhat] [Jedaite giving his staff and powers to Pluto] When night has come, And the land is dark. And the Moon, is the only light, we'll see. I won’t cry… I won’t cry, no I won’t shed a tear. Just as long, as you wait… wait for me. So darling, darling wait… for me. Wait for me, wait for me. Oh, won’t you wait, for me. * “Ha! Ah! Jo!” Jedaite struck three times in succession. And was easily blocked by his sparring partner. He attempted a quick leg sweep, which was avoided. He stepped back. “You’re not bad, for a noble.” Harli grinned at him. “You’re not bad, for a commoner. And fairly good for a novice wizard.” He chuckled. “You’ve been trained all your life, neh?” She nodded. “Of course. But, naturally, I’ve been trained in more than that. Want to… expand our sparring a bit?” He snorted derisively. “You want to play dirty? Fine. I’m better then you. Maybe not at the lo’dar, but that’s inconsequential. I’m better at real fighting.” She rose an eyebrow speculatively. “Do you think so? Want to try it…. Setsiana!” She walked past her. “How are you?” Jedaite turned to see the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. Green hair, approaching black, spilled down her back. She was dressed in long purple dress, with a large staff in her hand. “Who… who are you?” He recovered. “Good evening, my lady. May I take you for dinner?” The woman raised an eyebrow speculatively. "And who is this bold young gentleman?" Harli bowed formally. "May I present Jedaite, a mage apprentice?" The woman smiled. "What is his attunation?" He shrugged. "I haven't exactly been tested yet." The woman seemed curious. "Yet you are already called apprentice?" He blinked. "That's odd? No one said anything." Harli grinned. "At the risk of inflating Jedaite's head, he's one of the most powerful mages discovered in the past three centuries." She paused. "On the other hand, that power is useless without precise control, which he lacks." Jedaite's temper rose. How dare this young noble woman disgrace him in front of such a beauty? He quickly attacked, two hand chops and a kick. His attack was easily blocked by Harli, who grinned. The woman nodded. "I see what you mean. Still, he is brave to spar with you, Harli-chan." She turned to him. "Most men fear the power of the throne. That you do not is to your credit." He blinked. "You mean that Harli has decent connections in the Tower?" The woman chuckled. "You could say that. You were speaking of dinner tonight?" Jedaite's heart soared. "You bet!" But then he realized that this lady was probably of high aristocratic stature. "But... I'm not sure I have enough money, and..." She laughed again. "Worry not. Simply come, and eat. Wear your best attire." He nodded. "I'll meet you by the sled bay at 7." She smiled. "That will be fine." With that, she exited. * Jedaite's life had not always been so exciting. He had grown up as a bright child in the slums of Qertina City, excelling in both school and gang evasion. As a young teenager, his city school had been visited by a grand man wearing long, flowing, golden and brown robes. He'd claimed to be the Royal Mage of Zephyr, and said he was testing for talent. He'd simply circulated the school, not done anything spectacular, so Jedaite figured that he was probably a scam artist. That night, however, he started to have doubts. He'd been hiding on the school premises, avoiding a battle he somehow knew would occur. It would be the vengeance of a formerly Life Bonded young man whose partner had been killed in a sledding accident. It was weird. Sometimes he'd just... well, feel these things. So there he was, curled up in a corner of the school building. He'd seen the principal and so-called mage walk into a classroom. "So, any potential?" the principal asked hopefully. The mage answered, "Yes. I found three minorly sensitive... and one overpowering talent, Jedaite." The principal gasped, "But..." The mage nodded. "I know. To find two in one generation is odd. But it is incontrovertible. His power level are not my concerns." The principal sounded confused. "Then what is? He's the best student, and he doesn't fight needlessly. He has a strong sense of honor and loyalty. His oath of fealty to King Hartru was genuine. What is the problem?" The mage frowned. "Nothing is wrong with Jedaite himself. The problem is in the court." He paused. "Right now the conservatives are in control. This will probably last a few years, until the young princess comes into her own." The principal sounded concerned. "Are you sure she will not be conservative?" There was conspiratorial lilt to the mage's voice. "The Prophet has declared that she is the Heir. She has already expressed many views that echo the Queen From Afar's. She will welcome a commoner into the court based on his merit." The principal paused. "I will watch over him a few years longer. But then I am getting the retirement I deserve! I took this job to get *away* from the court." The mage sounded amused. "I'm certain the royal family will agree. You have worked long. Thank you for your time." After overhearing that conversation, Jedaite began to research everything he could find on politics and the Talented. He thought he was prepared when the mage, older now, came to take him to Founding City. He was wrong. * Jedaite's mind returned to the present. He found it amusing that he could remember with such crystal clarity, almost like he was revisiting the whole moment over again. He admired the suit that he'd borrowed from the man putting him up. He looked quite dashing, he thought to himself. He hurried towards the destined meeting place, sure he could swoon this noble woman. They were so easy to swoon in the tales, after all. He walked into a hangar containing thousands of small hovercraft - “sleds”, in common parlance. Workers bustled around, making the bay a hive of activity. “Greetings, Jedaite.” He looked up to see his date approach him. “I am Setsuna of Pluto. Are you ready?” He nodded, “Of course, fair lady. What is your pleasure tonight?” She gestured away from the bay. “Come this way. There is a nice…” Jedaite’s head came around quickly. A bomb was going to go off. He swung about, and saw the sled that it must be hidden in. With an apologetic glance at Setsuna, he ran for the sled. He leapt in and saw it… a large black spider bomb hooked into the sled’s systems. He began pulling wires out, hoping that he didn’t set it off accidentally. He breathed a sigh of relief as the timer stopped. Then he felt strong arms pulling him away, and he fell asleep. * Lomor, one of the Plutian guard, looked at the young man sprawled in the small cell. He was just waking up now. How could such a pup be arrogant enough to date the princess? “Good Morning, sleepy head.” The young man blinked. “Where am I?” Lomor ignored the question. “You are in the custody of the Plutian Embassy. You may at some time be returned to the Zephyrs authorities after appropriate punishment has been determined.” The young man blinked once more. It seemed to be a common habit for him. “Plutian Embassy? How did I get involved with you?” Lomor lowered his voice so that none other could hear. “You date our princess, you become our business.” The young man started . ”Princess? Setsuna is a princess?” Lomor couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “You claim you didn’t know?” He reasserted himself. “You cannot fool me. We’ve helpfully placed you in this place so that you can hear all that goes on in the throne room. Have fun.” He stalked out. * Jedaite was rather confused. Setsuna was a princess? He hadn’t figured on that at all. He put his ear to the wall of his cell and discovered that he could indeed hear something that sounded like a throne room. A familiar female voice was moderating between two crystal farmers. “Look, fellows, this is not so complicated. You have two choices: agree or disagree. If you agree, you can work together and share the profits. The profits that will most likely be higher. Or you can have an honorable duel. One of you will probably be maimed, and less money will be made. It is your choice, I cannot make the choice for you. Dismissed.” The heavy footsteps and voices of the two farmers left his range of hearing, and probably the throne room as well. That strangely familiar voice called out, “Admit the next.” The guard’s mousy voice could be heard, obviously surprised. “Princess? You are conducting court today?” She evidently nodded, for he continued. So, that familiar voice was the princess. He must have seen her around the palace. The guard paused. “Princess, a grave injustice has been done to our Princess by one of your subjects.” She chuckled, and that laugh was terribly familiar. “I disagree. We do not know that the one who placed the bomb was a son or daughter of Zephyr. Founding City receives many off planet guests.” The guard cleared his throat. “I was not referring to the bomber.” There was a pause. “I am referring the young man who placed her life in danger, by attempting to disable the bomb. He should have used the time to get the Princess out of the bay.” Jedaite couldn’t believe what he was hearing. And let the bomb blow all those workers to kingdom come? The princess evidently agreed with his silent assessment. “Really? Is that how you see it, Lomor? And what of the other people in the bay? While his action was both reckless and dangerous, it was also quite heroic.” Lomor’s voice had turned murderous. “Despite any… heroism involved in his actions, I demand he be reprimanded.” The princess’s voice was acidic. “You have the power to demand this…. yet, I will not comply.” His voice was dangerous. “I could have you disinherited for such an action.” She continued, “I will not… because the next request has to do with giving this young man a medal.” Lomor was incredulous. “I will confront the requester myself!” There was a wide smile in the princess’s voice. “Yes, I expect you will.” She raised her voice. “Send in the next, please.” Someone strode in, and it caused the throne room to become silent. Jedaite wondered who it could be. The princess continued. “I will now hear both sides arguments. Lomor?” His voice was strained. “Princess, he should have looked out for you!” “To me, Lomor.” “Well, he should have!” The princess cut him off. “The throne recognizes Princess Setsuna of Pluto.” Setsuna’s cool voice cut through Lomor’s ranting. “On behalf of the throne of Pluto, I request that Jedaite, apprentice mage, be granted the Medal of Honor for his actions in the bay. Instead of gaining recognition, he chose to try and save the common folk.” There was a period of silence. The princess replied. “It is not exactly traditional for the royalty of Pluto to nominate for the Medal of Honor, but I see that you have an overriding interest. Upon my father’s authority, I will grant it at the next public audience. Lomor, your request for a royal reprimand is denied.” Setsuna’s voice was pleased. “In addition, Princess, I ask that you turn Jedaite over to the Plutian Magistry for training. He has shown evident Time Talent.” The princess’ voice was troubled. “I agree that he has indeed, but the Zephyrs Magistry will hate to lose him. You will have to discuss it with both him and them.” “Agreed. Thank you, Princess. Lomor, you will release Jedaite, give him appropriate clothing, and conduct him to the Queen’s Banquet.” Lomor sounded resigned. “If you wish, Princess Setsuna.” The princess suddenly sounded much younger. “Setsuna, do you mind if I join you? Its been a long day, and there are a few hours till the next audience.” Setsuna’s voice was wry. “If you wish, Princess.” * Jedaite was dressed and escorted by a seething Lomor to the fanciest restaurant he had ever imagined. He turned to the gentleman, and was painfully polite. “Thank you, Lomor. Your service is appreciated.” Lomor stomped off, and Jedaite walked inside. Setsuna stood. “Hello, Jedaite.” He smiled hesitantly. “Princess Setsuna, thank you…” She cut him off. “Setsuna is fine. Did you hear what occurred?” He nodded. “Yes, all of it.” She smiled. “It is an honor you deserve. You also deserve the dinner you were promised. Come, let us eat.” He bowed. “May I conduct you, my lady?” She considered. “I suppose so.” He copied the movies and took her arm. They were lead by the maitre’d to a small private table. “What is your pleasure, my lord, my lady?” Jedaite stammered, “But… I’m not…” Setsuna stopped him. “For tonight you are.” She spoke to the waiter. “Please bring us some light wine. We are waiting for a friend to join us.” The waiter nodded and left. Setsuna sighed. “I’m sorry I did not get a chance to tell you, Jedaite. I take it you have been left in the dark as to many people’s stations?” He nodded. “I’m afraid so…” “Hi guys!” It was that voice again, the familiar voice of the Princess. But the person that bounced into the room was Harli. Dressed up a lot, but definitely the girl he’d sparred with. “Thanks for waiting.” As she sat down at the table, he blinked in surprise. Then he made some connections. “You are Princess Harliana.” She nodded. “True, true. Setsiana, why are we eating at such a fancy place? “ Setsuna laughed. “Because Jedaite deserves a taste of royalty.” The waiter unobtrusively reappeared. “Are you ready to order, nobles?” Harli nodded. “The Princess Platter.” Setsuna ordered as well. ”Seafood Delight.” Jedaite was at a loss. Harli grinned. “Give him a Zoitan special.” The waiter nodded and left. Jedaite blinked. “Zoitan? What’s that?” Harli grinned. "A who, actually. You're chief rival, to be exact. He often eats here." Jedaite nodded. "I have a rival?" Setsuna smiled. "In power? Yes you do. One other wizard level talent was found... him. It is rare for two so strong to be found in the same generation." The food seemed to appear before them, and all three dug in with a relish. Jedaite found that it was the best food he had ever tasted. "This is really good." Harli chuckled. "The kitchen staff will be thrilled to hear you think so. What do you think of the capital and the politics, Jedaite?" He frowned. "Not half as tasteful as the food." Both girls laughed. Setsuna nodded. "That is my assessment as well. Thankfully, Pluto is not so formal. Liana-chan puts up with things that I would not." Jedaite nodded. Harli sighed. "Speaking of which, I must be going. I'm expecting you at ten sharp, Jedaite." He smiled. "I'll be there." She stood. "Just remember to keep your in-throne room manners formal. I have enough problems with stuffy councilmen as it is." * The throne room was filled with various courtiers, pages, servants, magi, petitioners, etc. Jedaite was seated in the front row with Setsuna. They were both dressed in impossibly formal clothing. He wore the white tailored robes of a mage apprentice. She wore a long purple dress that bore the sigil of Pluto on it. Harli, dressed in court robes of gold and green, sat upon the throne. She smiled. "Thank you for coming. It is late at night, and there is much business to be discussed. But first, I will publicly announce the settlements of the private audiences conducted earlier." A herald stepped forward. "By order of Harliana, Princess of Zephyr, on the authority of King Hartru, I declare the debts of Ryohib to be null and void. I declare that the property known as Janx shall be equally shared by Drag, Dufe, and their cousin Fine." He continued on, listing settlements and other boring paperwork. Then he subsided. Harli stood. "Jedaite, you may approach the throne." He stood and bowed formally. "Thank you, Your Majesty." He walked slowly to the foot of the stairs and knelt on one knee. "My future, past and present are yours." She nodded. "Thank you, subject of my honored father. Jedaite, the throne wishes to recognize the bravery you displayed in Sled Bay 7 earlier. Therefore, I ask you to accept the Medal of the People's Protector." He bowed gravely. "Princess, I shall accept on behalf of the People and the Throne." She stepped forward, and placed a heavy weight around his neck. "Jedaite, you are a fine example of your people, your planet, and your guild. Go in peace." He nodded. "I will, always with an eye to help, and hand to lift, or a heart to give." With that said, he quietly walked off the dais and took his seat. Setsuna smiled at him. "You got through that well. Congratulations on the skilled ad libbing." He blushed. "I tried." Harliana regained her seat. "The throne recognizes Setsuna, Princess of Pluto." Setsuna rose. "Harliana, I have received a communique from the Plutian Magistry. They wish to train Jedaite in the arts of Time magistry." The Royal Mage stood. "Majesty, I object. Jedaite is a valuable resource. We cannot give him up." Harliana frowned. "Princess Setsuna, do you have an apprentice of Stone atttunation to trade to the Zehphyr Magistry?" Setsuna nodded, a smile playing across her lips. "We have three, Princess." The Royal Mage frowned. "I suppose that would be acceptable." Jedaite frowned expressively. Harliana gestured for him to rise. "What is you opinion of all this, young hero?" He blinked. "Your Majesty, what level of competence can I achieve on Zephyr?" The Royal Mage sighed. "Not as high a level as Pluto can give you." He nodded. "Then to Pluto I wish to go." Harliana nodded. "Its decided, then." * Pluto was a small planet, sparsley populated. They did have a capital city - Achronos - but it was quite a bit smaller than his home city of Qertin had been. Setsuna smiled at him. "So, what do you think?" He looked around, taking in the flavor of his new home. The construction of the buildings, the clothing of the people on the street, and the streetside noises all proclaimed this place to be much less rigid than Zephyr. "I like it. It seems so relaxed." Setsuna's expression was wry. "Well, the people of Pluto judge not by class, but they are just as judgemental as yours. Here the standard is intelligence or magical strength." They were joined by a frazzled old man in bright orange robes, carrying a staff. "Hail, Princess. Is this the new boy?" Setsuna nodded. "Yes. I leave him to your care." With that, she flowed down the street. Jedaite looked after her with hungry eyes. The old mage cackled. "So, sweet on Setsuna are you? Well, you should know that she's broke a great many men's hearts. I'm forget it if I were you. You have hard training ahead - keep your mind on that." Jedaite frowned at the insult of Setsuna, but then brightened. "Then I can begin my training?" The old man grinned, and his eyes alighted mischeviously. "You will." *