Author's Note: Hello readers!

So this has been our baby for the past...goodness, two months? Since the opening week of the Avengers film I believe. We conceived this crazy idea of crossing The Avengers over with Sailor Moon because we just have a habit of planning Sailor Moon crossovers to everything. Thus this story was born. This is cowritten by serena-tsukino66 and Shrugs, and we both have pretty different writing styles so we've spent a lot of time trying to combine them together.

Just as a quick note, this story will be spanning first in the past during the Silver Millenium on the Moon Kingdom before we head to the present on Earth kicking back with the Avengers, so be prepared for quite the story. We've spent well over a month of hour long walks nearly every night to string this thing together, so we hope you enjoy this. ^^

Disclaimer: We do not own The Avengers or Sailor Moon, nor the Greek gods mentioned and used in this fanfic. We lay claim only to the idea.

Transcend
Chapter One
By: serena-tsukino66, Shrugs
- MarvelSilver -

You saw me before I saw you. I was in a different world, then; in a different life. You had this look in your eyes, as though you wanted something, as though you'd wanted it for a long time. In the centuries that have passed, something tells me you still haven't grasped it. As I sat there, hidden in the shrubbery of the palace gardens, trying to hide from you; you and your company, those eyes somehow sought me out, pinning me where I stood. No one had ever looked at me like that before, with that kind of intensity. It surprised me, I guess. Those cold, green eyes, looking back at me as if I could warm them up. Perhaps at that time, in that life, I was the kind of person that could. I had been undamaged-unchanged. Somewhere between the Serena of then to the Serena now, I've fallen apart. Surrendered to something I never sought out to be, someone I'm ashamed of. Maybe my trust in you, the idea that you could bring that person I was back, had been my first mistake. It was hard to resist, though, looking into your eyes. They're pretty powerful, you know. Pretty beautiful, too.

Serena found herself turning away first, her face turning red as she left her back to those of Asgard.

"What is it?" came the hushed yet curious voice of the Venusian Princess beside her as she strained to get a view of the party while avoiding being spotted as well.

"Nothing," the moon princess' voice was a hushed gasp, gathering her thoughts to herself before reaching out to her friend's sleeve. "Let's go, quick, before we're spotted."

Mina pouted as she was tugged away, wanting to continue admiring the company, but giving in to Serena's insistent pull. "He was so handsome though," she whined, following after as they headed towards an entrance into the palace.

"Leave it to you, Mina, to fall in love with a man you've gotten just a glance at," Serena teased, but felt her cheeks blushed as she thought of those eyes again. Perhaps this was a time she understood.

"I haven't fallen in love, I just know how to admire good looks," Mina defended herself as they headed towards Serena's quarters that had their own private entrance into the garden.

Rounding a corner, nearly colliding with an outstretched fist which grasped the very objects the girls had sought after, a feeling of dread rushed through them.

"Did you forget something?" A voice of masculine timbre questioned in disapproval. Lowering his arm, Eros stared the two princesses down, still expecting an answer. Breathing in, the girls each took their own proffered covering.

"Thank you, Eros. I must ask, however, what were you doing in my room?" Serena asked, sugary sweet, with a suspicious half-glare.

"Yes, Brother." Mina added with the same tone.

Eros, Prince of Venus, towered at least a full head over Mina and Serena. His frame was muscular, manly, but not of such mass to detract from his speed. His hands, soft at the touch, but lethal if need called for it, were without fault whenever he drew his bow. His main occupation wasn't usually a means of war but love-that was his title-Eros, God of Love.

"Why did you decide to go outside naked?" He retaliated. The irritated god crossed his arms at his chest, eyes now glued to his sister. "Mother told me to find you two. I found these," He indicated the veils in the girls possession, "in your stead, as you were absent from Serena's chamber."

"Because of the new arrivals?" Serena questioned although she already knew. Tradition, of course.

"It is. The royalty of Asgard have arrived for the ball. You are to accompany me back to Queen Serenity and my mother once you are decent." He stressed the word as both girls hadn't actually put their veils on, but to rid them of Eros's condemning scowl, they hastily covered themselves. He ran a hand through his light curls with a sigh as if it was taking centuries…in actuality it took less than seven seconds.

"The ball?" Serena questioned absentmindedly as she fixed the veil before her, making sure her features were well hidden.

Mina wasn't as subtle. "But it's a week away! Who comes this early for a ball?"

"Do you forget, dear sister? We ourselves are just guests of Queen Serenity."

Scoffing, Mina waved her hand dismissively at his words. "We don't count, brother. I practically live here."

"It's true," Serena supported this statement, a wry smile towards her friend. "She never leaves."

The Venusian princess's response was to cross her arms and stick her tongue out firmly, albeit childish for someone raised by the goddess Aphrodite.

Sighing, Eros cut in, knowing that left unattended the girls would never stop their playful banter and would never make it out of the garden, much less to their waiting mothers and guests. Clearing his throat, both girls turned their attention back to him before sheepishly nodding, Mina straightening her haphazardly arranged veil while filing after the god of love.

Straightened and poised, the three set out to where the older royals stood greeting the company glimpsed moments earlier.

"Ah, the late arrivals." Both girls cringed at the sound, they knew they were in for a reprimanding. Queen Serenity extended her arm toward her daughter, signaling her to come forward. "My daughter."

Taking a step towards the visiting party, Serena bowed forward, eyes focused to the marble flooring, "Pleased to make your acquaintance."

"Ah, such a pleasure to meet the Princess Serenity. I've heard so much of you,"

Serena glanced up to see the words had come from Odin, who had a warm smile on his face as he inclined his head towards her. The rest of the Asgardians bowed in her direction, and as she straightened up she stepped back to take her place beside her mother.

Next were the introductions by Aphrodite as she directed her eldest forward, Eros taking his bows before Mina stepped by his side, greeting the foreign guests.

As for the Asgardians, Odin revealed his eldest son as Thor. The blonde, burly prince had an air of confidence about him as he greeted his hosts with a charming smile. The younger son was almost the complete opposite. With hair dark as night, Loki had a leaner build than his brother. He had a charisma when he spoke that delivered differently than Thor, paired with his more humble approach.

Having completed their introductions, Serena caught Mina attempt to restrain an anxious fidget. It was customary for dignitaries to confer in the throne room, discussing private and personal affairs, from their planet's involvements to the happenings of their families. To sum up, the flitty feeling was reciprocated, as this may be their chance to 'disappear' from sight and be without the need for the bothersome veils. Mina could already feel her face getting warm from the lack of air and would give anything to escape from the room, attractive foreign princes present or not.

Their hopes were quickly, dashed, however, as Queen Serenity began to lead their guests from the foyer, giving a backwards glance to her daughter.

"Serenity, I trust you can entertain our guests while we are away? Make them acquainted with the halls and show them to their rooms?"

Forcing a smile they couldn't see, Serena nodded. "Yes mother."

No such luck.

All eyes watched the retreating forms file through the hall, waiting until they were out of sight. Turning back to her appointed task, she noticed a gap in the opposing party's lineup. Following shocked gazes, she nearly screamed at the sight of the Asgardian behemoth infringing upon Mina's personal space.

The girls had been prepared for questions regarding the veil-they were scarcely used in their realm, much less a custom even acknowledged in others. What they hadn't expected, however, was for the eldest Odinson to approach them so calmly. As everyone else watched in puzzlement, Thor reached forward, lifting the coverings from Mina's face. Much too startled to do anything but stare back at the Asgardian prince, Mina felt her mouth open slightly, her protest stuck in her throat. Her brother, however, was all too willing to defend her honor. Shouldering himself in front of his sister, his hand found Thor's wrist, forcing it away. Rather than speak, he let the rage in his eyes show the Asgardian that he had stepped out of line. The younger, dark haired Odinson stepped forward, his hands up in a gesture of peace for his brother, whom was instead laughing, eyes full of amusement rather than worry or apology.

"I mean no quarrel with you, Eros," it was hard to miss the playfulness in his tone. "I was merely intrigued by your customs. Is it not hard to get to know someone while they're hidden away? One might not tell them apart."

Rather than allow Eros' anger to fester, Loki stepped forward to clear the air.

"Please understand, such a custom is unheard of for us. Thor does not understand personal bounds, he means no offense to you or the ladies' honor."

The Venusian prince showed no signs of withdrawal, eyes still glaring daggers at the impulsive god. Knowing him and knowing his instincts, Serena placed a hand upon his shoulder, causing the loyal Eros to step back in recant. If he had been able to see her face, he would have seen she was not angry with him but restraining a giggle at his constant 'Older Brother Ways'.

"Shall we begin?" She said, gesturing with a nod toward the doors.

Surprisingly all members of their party followed obediently after the Moon princess in what began as awkward silence.. Perhaps it was their awe at the splendor the palace held-or perhaps it was the threat of the bow and arrow Eros held, paired so complacently with his stern eyes.

It was left to Thor to break the silence, Mina exchanging weary looks between the visiting prince and her brother, prepared for all out war. She breathed a sigh of relief as he just went about putting names to the rest of their party that hadn't warranted an official introduction earlier in the foyer. While sometimes boastful and exuding self confidence, his words were harmless enough.

Steadfast, Serena had every intention of what would first be exhibited, her favorite location and perhaps the most breathtaking part of the palace,

"Our gardens are free for all to explore," she said, smiling. "You should enjoy yourselves here."

It may not have been the preferred place of a warrior, but the Moon did have gardens worthy of boasting. The walkways were an intricate labyrinth. Many believed that even if you made it to the center, you would never get out again. Yet, somehow, that never came true.

Perhaps it was just that no one had ever found the center.

The flowers, domestic species and some from neighboring kingdoms, were arranged in a complex network, the colors seeming to blend together in a never-ending spectrum. Trees lined the floral paths to give the feel of a forest.

Even if one hated such things, they would have to admit to the peaceful calm that poured over them in this place.

Serena bent to smell a rose, realizing a little late that she wouldn't have a decent way to smell it with her veil on. She settled instead for feeling the silk petals slide between her fingers. So enraptured, she did not notice the younger son of Odin stoop low to pick up something from the ground which he had almost stepped on, nor did she notice him discreetly place said object in his pocket.

"This is truly a spectacle to behold, I dare say I haven't seen such a breathtaking scene in my whole life." The words came from the warrior whom Thor had introduced as Fandral, and whether it was an attempt to please his hosts or patch up for previous events in lieu of his prince, Serena regarded him with a smile.

Thor, however, disagreed. "Forever the romantic you are, Fandral. These grounds would be far more useful for sparring, not the likes of flowers and poetry."

"Are you incapable of appreciating beauty?" Mina asked before she could stop herself, for the first time glad the veil enshrouded her features, keeping their guests from seeing the pink tinge growing on her cheeks. She was often outspoken, but just as often lost herself in the presence of attractive men.

"On the contrary, I do enjoy beauty in all forms," Thor gave a cheeky wink, and Mina found her shade turning more scarlet.

Sif merely rolled her eyes while Loki pinched the bridge of his nose,face buried in his hands as if to hide himself from the embarrassment

Watching Eros warily, noticing his clenched fist, Fandral again made to appease his hosts. "I believe Thor has admired enough beauty for today. Perhaps we should find something a bit more masculine in his favor."

Having noticed her friend's brother attempt to hold in his fury as well, Serena nodded willingly, smiling easily as if things weren't in such a tense state.

"By all means, we can continue our journey."

Setting off down the many halls, she pointed out many things; some of which she found boring herself, so she over-viewed them quickly. The banquet hall seemed to be well received despite not being prepared with a lavish feast. Apparently, they could just imagine the splendor. Serena made a mental note to keep her table manners in check in the newcomers' presence-only one chance to make a good first impression.

She led them into the library, which also may not have been everyone's favorite retreat, but she told them where lied the books that recounted warfare, physical skill, weaponry, and magic. The sections on every planet that made up the Silver Alliance were displayed in separate decorative shelving in it's own area. Even the blind could find it if they had wanted.

The next room, one she hadn't visited in years-the War Room. That was what it used to be. Now it was a shrine to those who had sacrificed themselves. Ancient weapons and armor from ages past, plaques and memorials, lined the room. The table at which they decided strategies and tactics was left in its position where it had always been.

She had only been there once to see her father dress in his armor, the very armor in the case at which she stood, preparing for battle. The last time she saw him alive.

She brushed the light dust from the name plate. She really needed someone to dust this room. It may not be in use, but it should not be left in such a state.

"These weapons are old and poorly tended. They wouldn't serve you well in war." Thor stated, the blade in his hands looking as if it would snap in two. Surprisingly, it was not Eros to keep him in line this time but Loki, who placed the sword back in its exhibit.

"There are no wars on the Moon Kingdom." Serena said a bit more bitingly than she intended, gaining attention from everyone in the room. She could have sworn there was a flicker of humor in Eros's eyes, but a wave of resentment at herself made her wish she was without company.

Mina stepped up beside her, "Perhaps you would like to be shown your rooms now."

Eros agreed wholeheartedly, hoping to rid himself, if only for a moment, of a certain prince. "If the men will follow me." He said without waiting for them to agree.

The group made their way from the mock shrine, splitting off when they came to a cross-section. Eros led the troupe of five men down the left wing before turning another corner. Before long all that remained were their echoing footsteps.

Mina looked over her shoulder, making sure they had completely gone, before ripping at the cover upon her head. She let out a relieved sigh and breathed deep.

"Oh, I was beginning to think they would never leave." That had technically been meant for all the guests but at this moment she didn't care anymore. It was just the three of them now.

"This tradition of yours, is it common within this realm?" Sif questioned, truly interested.

"It was once, years ago, but many of us do not subject ourselves to it anymore." Mina began the explanation with a little more seriousness than she'd shown earlier.

"We begin wearing them while we're young. As we grow, the veil is lengthened. Over time you get used to it, but to tell the truth, they are awfully hot." Serena laughed, following Mina's example, then fixing the mess it had made of her hair. They continued their walk to their own quarters.

The lady warrior likened both girls' appearance to the women of Asgard, rivaling many in beauty. The tiniest niggle cropped up in the back of her mind as she looked at their nearly identical golden hair, but she pushed it away.

"Was this forced upon you by order of men?" Sif asked, knowing full-well the oppression from men.

"It may have been." Serena answered, uncertainly, then continued, "We mainly wear them when those from outside the Alliance arrive. For centuries, it was that female royalty and nobility who were unwed had to shield themselves from foreign eyes. However,-"

"Unfortunately for us, it is now only the princesses' job to hide." Mina cut in, showing her distaste for the slip of material and the custom.

The reason behind it wasn't really clear, lost to time, it seemed; but many had their own theories. Some would speculate the delicate fabric was meant to cover a disfigured or disgraceful appearance, but those who knew better knew that was untrue.

What seemed the most plausible thought was that it came down to two things: peace within the realm and inner beauty.

They had arrived at the rooms, Sif's not being far from either of the princesses'.

"I hope it is to your liking." Serena said, giving the lady warrior a bow. As she was about to respond, a cat came bounding out from around the corner.

"Serenity, your mother wishes to speak with you." The feline spoke. "And where is your veil?" Serena eyed her visitor, grateful she wasn't jolted into attack mode at the sudden intrusion yet still somewhat shocked.

"I shall speak with her, however, Luna, I do believe you should introduce yourself before surprising strangers." Serena replied, begrudgingly placing her veil upon her head once again.

Luna turned to face Sif, crossing one front paw over the other, bowing as her little body would allow. "I am pleased to meet you. My name is Luna, adviser of the royal court."

Startled still, Sif blinked in bemusement before composing herself, bringing an uncertain smile to her face. "Well met, Luna. I am Sif, of Asgard." If the dark haired beauty was anything, she was foremost a warrior, and would not let the feline continue to put her off guard.

Turning her attention back to the moon princess, far more comfortable to converse with her, the dark haired woman gave a brief nod of acknowledgement. "You have an engagement with your mother, I mustn't prolong you. It was a pleasure speaking with you both, I anticipate us meeting soon."

"My apologies for having to leave so soon. I look forward to seeing you again."

Bowing once more, Serena followed Luna to where her mother was. The throne room, well, she hadn't needed help to find that, but perhaps Luna guided her to make sure she actually arrived. The cat guardian hung back while Serena entered her mother's domain.

"Mother you hadn't told me we were having visitors. If this about my absence, I am truly sorry." Serena figured she should apologize now before the accusations flew.

Queen Serenity smiled, waving her off. "This is not about this afternoon."

Serena looked like a lost kitten, confusion written on her face. The smile on her mother's face only grew.

"I have a proposition for you."

Unbeknownst to the two occupants of the throne room, the sneaky Venusian princess had followed after the small cat and Serena as they'd left. Setting aside all composure and dignity a princess should possess, she had collapsed on the doorway, knees cold against the marble of the floor while she pressed against the door, straining to catch the conversation inside. If she could hear anything, it was barely even worth being called muffled sounds.

"What is with this door? It's like it's protected by magic or something!" Mina smiled. She had to humor herself. She wasn't going to stop because she was alone.

She twisted, made sure every strand of hair was moved away from her ears, flipped her veil backward and moved in so close she could have sworn she'd be suctioned to the door forever. None of it worked. She would explode from he curiosity before she heard a single word.

"Would you like a glass to listen through?" A voice from behind her spoke. Immersed into the conversation she couldn't hear, she was too focused for even a small startled jump, instead absentmindedly nodding.

"That would be grea-" She said pivoting to her other side, hoping to accept the offer. Mina gasped, the Venusian queen standing before her. "Mother! I-"

"I'd suggest you get off the floor now, I believe Serenity will be coming out soon." Aphrodite said, saving her smile for in her own head. There was no doubt Mina was her child.

Mina had just enough time to scramble from the ground to the opposite wall, putting on a nonchalant face. As her mother predicted, Serena walked out, calm and poised. She nodded to Mina and bowed to Aphrodite, the older woman now entering the throne room herself.

Following after her friend, Mina knew something was troubling her. The collected exterior was just a mask.

"What did she say? Serena?" The moon girl would not respond. This had to be something she deemed must remain private between them. They carried on in silence, walking back to Serena's room, a place they'd shared many secrets over the years.

The doors were shut behind them, locked for extra measure, and whatever enchantment was on the throne room doors was most assuredly placed upon these.

"Is it that bad?" Mina asked, sitting on the bed. Serena continued to stand, pacing short distances.

"To me, it is." She answered, looking down. Mina stood and forced Serena to sit with her.

"What did she say to you?"

Serena told her all of what transpired after she had entered the throne room, after her mother had utter those words.

I have a proposition for you.

Mina listened fixedly, not wanting to miss a detail of that which she hadn't heard from outside the doors. When she had finished, she felt the heaviness weighing on Serena's shoulders and tried to cheer her up the way her nature knew how.

"At least he's attractive." This was true.

"Forgive me for wanting a relationship based on more than appearances."

"Are you calling me vain?" Mina asked, trying to sound offended but failing to hold back her laughter.

"Leave it to you to take an insult in stride." Serena smiled, ruefully. Mina sobered up, looking her friend in the eye. She could only hope she could bring the light back into them.

"It is a chance for you to get to know him."

"The behavior he displayed today may be all I need see."

"Or perhaps one of our other fine gentlemen visitors has caught your eye." Mina teased, giving Serena a sidelong glance, trying to read any subtle change in her demeanor. Serena gave her nothing but turned her eyes skyward, out the window.

"Have you forgotten about Endymion?"

Mina stared at the blue-swirled planet. She could sense longing from Serena's heart, but she had to bring her back down the the Moon.

"Look, Prince Endymion is on Earth, you are on the Moon. I just don't see this as a love that transcends through time and space, and you live in your own kingdom, a child at your side." Mina comically frowned, eyes shut, shoulders shrugged.

"That is rather cynical for the Princess of Love." Serena responded, not looking away from the blue planet.

"Yes, but as such I can sense these things." Mina waited. This could take some time. Finally sighing, she asked, "What are you going to do?"

She would have to wait longer, watching Serena close her eyes in contemplation. The silence was thick, and she could have sworn the room had gotten warmer. She was just about to question her when Serena's eyes snapped open wide. The accompanying smile made her a bit uneasy.

Serena turned back to Mina, the smile never faltering. "I have an idea."

AN: Alright so there is our first chapter. What is Serena's idea? Find out in chapter two. Thank you so much for reading this, we hope you've enjoyed it as much as we have enjoyed dreaming it up. It'd be great to hear from you! ^^

Bonus Question: Curious to hear, what are YOUR ideal Avengers/Sailor Moon pairings and why? Or even just which of the Avengers is your favorite 'hunkmeister'? ;)