The Winter Soldier and the Queen of the Moon [SailorBucky]

Maeve arrived in Asgard, greeted warmly by Thor and Loki. The air was crisp and filled with the scent of blooming flowers from the palace gardens, a serene counterpoint to the elaborate architecture.

«Maeve! It's good to see you» Thor boomed, pulling her into a bear hug. Loki stood nearby, a rare genuine smile on his face.

«It's been too long» Maeve replied, returning the hug. «I've missed you both.»

Thor and Loki treated Maeve like a beloved younger sister, their bond forged over years of shared adventures and battles. She remembered the times they had fought side by side, defending both Earth and Asgard from various threats. Those memories brought a sense of comfort and belonging that she cherished deeply.

They spent their days exploring Asgard, with Thor showing her the latest advancements in Asgardian technology. They visited the workshop of Eitri, the dwarf king, where weapons of unimaginable power were forged. The air was thick with the scent of molten metal and the rhythmic clanging of hammers. Maeve marveled at the intricate designs and the sheer power contained within each artifact.

«These are incredible» she said, running her fingers over the hilt of a newly forged sword. «The craftsmanship is beyond anything I've seen.»

Thor grinned proudly. «Eitri is the best in the universe. We've been working on improving our defenses.»

Eitri, towering over them despite his dwarven stature, was engrossed in his work, his massive hands manipulating delicate instruments with surprising dexterity. When he saw Maeve, he paused, wiping sweat from his brow.

«Thor, Loki, and who might this be?» Eitri asked, his deep voice resonating through the cavernous workshop.

«This is Maeve, Princess Serenity of the Moon Kingdom» Thor introduced her with a proud smile.

Eitri's eyes widened in recognition and respect. «Ah, the legendary Princess Serenity, Sailor Moon. It's an honor to meet you.»

Maeve smiled warmly, feeling a bit humbled by the introduction. «The honor is mine, Eitri. Your craftsmanship is renowned throughout the realms.»

Eitri grinned, clearly pleased. «Thank you, Princess. What brings you to my forge?»

Maeve took out her moon brooch, the Silver Crystal gleaming within it. «I was wondering if you could help me with this. It's a powerful artifact, but I feel it could be even more effective.»

Eitri took the brooch, his eyes narrowing in concentration as he examined it. «This is an impressive piece. The Silver Crystal is a rare and powerful gem. I can see why you'd want to enhance it.»

Thor and Loki watched as Eitri carefully inspected the brooch. After a few moments, Eitri looked up, a thoughtful expression on his face. «I can modernize this for you, Maeve. I can improve your Spiral Heart Moon Rod, which I believe will serve you well as when you'll be Neo-Queen Serenity.»

Maeve's eyes widened in surprise and excitement. «That sounds perfect. Can you really do that?»

Eitri nodded confidently. «Absolutely. With the right materials and enchantments, I can forge a new scepter that will amplify the Silver Crystal's power and provide you with even greater abilities.»

Thor clapped a hand on Maeve's shoulder. «You see, Maeve? You're in good hands with Eitri.»

Loki smirked, leaning against a nearby anvil. «Eitri's skills are unparalleled. Your new scepter will be a masterpiece.»

Maeve watched in awe as Eitri set to work, gathering rare metals and gemstones from his vast collection. The forge blazed with intense heat as he began the intricate process of crafting the new scepter. Sparks flew and metal hissed as Eitri's hammer fell in a rhythmic pattern, shaping the materials with precision and care.

As Eitri worked, he explained the process to Maeve. «The Spiral Heart Moon Rod as you probably now, is an extension of your own power. It will enhance your abilities, allowing you to channel the Silver Crystal's energy more efficiently. The heart shape symbolizes the love and compassion that are at the core of your strength.»

Maeve listened intently, feeling a sense of anticipation and gratitude. «Thank you, Eitri. This means more to me than you know.»

Hours passed as Eitri labored tirelessly, his focus unwavering. Thor and Loki remained by Maeve's side, offering their support and encouragement. Finally, Eitri lifted the newly forged scepter, the Spiral Heart Moon Rod, and presented it to Maeve.

The scepter was a work of art, its sleek design adorned with intricate engravings and shimmering gemstones. The heart-shaped top glowed with a soft, ethereal light, reflecting the power of the Silver Crystal within.

Maeve took the scepter, feeling a surge of energy course through her. «It's beautiful, Eitri. Thank you so much.»

Eitri smiled, clearly pleased with his work. «May it serve you well, Princess Serenity. Use it to protect those you love and to bring peace to your kingdom.»

Maeve nodded, her heart filled with determination. «I will, Eitri. I promise.»

As they left the forge, Maeve couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of hope and purpose. With the Spiral Heart Moon Rod in her possession, she knew she was better equipped to face the challenges ahead and to continue her search for Bucky.

Loki, on the other hand, entertained her with tales of mischief and magic. He led her through hidden passages within the palace, revealing secret gardens and enchanted rooms. They laughed together as Loki recounted stories of his pranks and escapades.

«Do you remember the time we turned Thor's armor pink?» Loki asked, a sly grin on his face.

Maeve giggled, nodding. «He was furious! I thought he would never forgive us.»

Thor rolled his eyes good-naturedly. «I did forgive you, didn't I? Eventually.»

One evening, as they walked through the golden halls, Maeve found herself alone with Thor. The sky was painted with the soft hues of twilight, the stars beginning to twinkle in the heavens above. They stood on a balcony overlooking the sprawling city, the lights of Asgard shimmering like a sea of stars below.One evening, as they walked through the golden halls, Maeve found herself alone with Thor. The sky was painted with the soft hues of twilight, the stars beginning to twinkle in the heavens above. They stood on a balcony overlooking the sprawling city, the lights of Asgard shimmering like a sea of stars below.

«Thor, there's something I've been meaning to tell you» Maeve began, her voice hesitant.

«What's wrong, Maeve?» asked Thor, looking at her with a gentle expression.

Maeve took a deep breath, gathering her courage. «Before I met Endymion, both times, I had a crush on you. I didn't know how to express it, and I was afraid it would ruin everything.»

Thor's eyes widened slightly in surprise, but then he smiled warmly.

«Maeve, I had no idea and I had the same feeling, both times.. But I know that you were destined to be together with Endymion. I knew that you could never love me the way you love Bucky.»

Maeve nodded, feeling a weight lift from her shoulders. «I know that now and I love Bucky with all my heart... But part of me wonders what might have been.»

Thor reached out, taking her hand in his. «Who knows what the future holds, Maeve? Perhaps one day, if the opportunity arises, we can see where our paths might lead; but for now, we must honor our commitments.»

«Thank you, Thor. Your words mean a lot to me.» Maeve smiled, feeling a sense of peace. 

The moment was interrupted by sound of steps. Loki entered, his expression more serious than usual.

«Maeve, a message has arrived from Queen Serenity. She asks you to return to the Moon Castle.»

«I suppose I've stayed longer than I should have.» Maeve sighed, feeling a pang of guilt.

Thor and Loki exchanged glances, their expressions understanding.

«You are always welcome here, Maeve, but your mother is right. You have responsibilities that cannot be ignored.» told Thor, with a smile.

«And remember, we are only a call away if you need us.» Loki nodded with a smile. 

Maeve stood, feeling a mixture of gratitude and sadness. «Thank you both. I will never forget your kindness.»

As she prepared to leave, Thor and Loki escorted her to the Bifrost. They stood together, watching as Heimdall activated the bridge.

«Take care, Maeve» Thor said, his voice filled with warmth.

Loki gave her a rare, genuine smile. «Until we meet again.»

Maeve nodded, feeling a sense of resolution. «Until we meet again, my friends.»

With a final wave, she stepped onto the Bifrost and was transported back to the Moon. The familiar surroundings of the Moon Castle greeted her, and she felt a renewed sense of purpose. She had found strength and comfort in Asgard, but now it was time to face her duties and continue her search for Bucky.

Maeve walked through the halls of the Moon Castle, her mind filled with the memories of her time in Asgard. She knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, she would face them with the courage and determination that her friends had inspired in her.

As she entered the throne room, Queen Serenity greeted her with a warm smile.

 «Welcome back, my daughter. I trust your time in Wakanda and Asgard was fruitful.»

Maeve nodded, her heart filled with gratitude. «It was, mother. I am ready to continue my duties and to find Bucky. Thank you for allowing me this time.»

Queen Serenity placed a hand on her daughter's shoulder, her eyes filled with pride. «You are stronger than you realize, Maeve and you are not alone in this. We will find him, together.»

With those words, Maeve felt a renewed sense of hope and determination. The road ahead might be long and difficult, but she knew that with the support of her friends and family, she could face any challenge. And one day, she would be reunited with the love of her life.

The next day, Maeve stood on the balcony of the Moon Castle, gazing at the Earth. She placed a hand on her growing belly, feeling the life within her. 

«Bucky, wherever you are, we will find you. Our family will be whole again.»

As she continued to stare at the Earth, lost in her thoughts, she heard the soft footsteps of her mother approaching. Queen Serenity joined her on the balcony, the two women standing side by side in silent companionship.

«Maeve, I know this is difficult for you, but you must remember that you have the strength of the Moon Kingdom behind you and the love of your family and friends.» Queen Serenity said gently. 

Maeve nodded, tears welling in her eyes. «I just miss him so much, mother. Every day feels like an eternity without him.»

Queen Serenity placed a comforting arm around her daughter. «I know, my dear. But you must have faith. Endymion is strong, and I believe he will find his way back to you, as he did before.»

Maeve leaned into her mother's embrace, finding solace in her words. «Thank you, mother. I will hold onto that hope.»

As the days passed, Maeve immersed herself in her duties as the princess of the Moon Kingdom. She worked tirelessly, ensuring the safety and prosperity of her people. Every day in the Chamber of Prayer,  Maeve whispered an additional prayer for his safe return in the Chamber of Prayer.

With a heart full of hope and determination, Maeve prepared to face the future, ready to embrace whatever challenges and adventures lay ahead.