Three Musketeers: Furuba Style!

Chapter Two: The Masquerade

By Takara-Star-Chan

Disclaimer: I do not own Fruits Basket. It belongs to Natsuki Takaya.

-Curtains Up-

(Tohru's POV)

I walked hastily back to my Ladies' in waiting, face feeling hot. I could not believe that I had just met a very handsome, kind young man. I really hoped that I would see him again.

Arisa and Saki came forward to greet me.

"Did you get your fan?" Arisa asked of me.

I held it up, and smiled. "Yes! A young man found it for me!"

Saki smiled back. "That was kind of him. Was he handsome?"

I felt my cheeks heat up in embarrassment. "Um, yes. He was very handsome."

"What's his name?" Arisa said, excitement showing in her face.

"He said that his name was Kyo," I told them. I put my hands behind my back, and began rocking on my heels. "I do hope I get to see him again."

Then, I felt water hit my arm. I looked up at the sky, noticing that a lot of clouds had accumulated over head. In the distance, we could hear thunder.

"Looks like there's a storm coming," Saki said. "We should probably head inside now."

We began to walk quickly back towards one of the entrances to the castle. As soon as we got in, it began to pour and thunder behind us.

-Curtains Up-

(Kyo's POV)

I tucked the handkerchief into my shirt and began to walk on. I was pretty shocked that I had actually met her. She seemed like a very nice girl, and I felt bad that I'd probably never get the chance to speak to her again. It may seem kind of stupid, but the few moments I had with her had an impact on me. Which was silly, because she was probably only trying to be kind. For all I knew, she didn't mean anything by giving me her handkerchief and a kiss on the cheek.

As I walked along, I heard thunder above my head; and soon after, it began to rain on me. It was coming down very hard, and I was getting soaked. I began to run, hoping that I would get to my first destination without my bag of trousers getting drenched as well.

The first stop was Ayame's house. Ayame, as I mentioned, is an incredibly skilled swordsman with long hair. He is flamboyant, and thinks the world worships the ground he walks on. I honestly don't see how his wife, Mine, puts up with him.

Their home is actually attached to their business. Mine is a tailor, and is very skilled at clothes-making. Ayame, rumor has it, has a knack for it too, but somehow decided to do his main work as a musketeer.

I finally made it to the shop, and ran in. I fell to my knees from exhaustion. I wasn't used to running that fast.

"Oh my! Monsieur Kyo!" Mine came over to me with a towel. "You're soaking wet! It's a good thing you came in. That weather is looking really nasty."

"No...kidding..." I said, trying to catch my breath. She helped me to my feet, and led me to a chair, throwing the towel over my head.

"You stay here until the storm is over. I'll go get you some tea." She then turned to the kitchen. I sat there, trying to dry my hair off. Mine was always very kind to me, Yuki and Haru.

I looked up to see what all she had been working on. The thing that caught my eye first was this poufy white gown with light blue beading and faerie wings on the back. I thought at first that it was some strange wedding gown. But, then I decided that it was more than likely for someone to wear to the upcoming masquerade. Wedding gowns, I'm sure (with as little as I know about them) don't come with wings and blue beadwork.

Mine came back in carrying a hot cup of tea, and handed it to me. "There you go! Now you won't catch cold!"

She smiled, adjusted her glasses, and turned back to the mannequin with the white dress, hemming it.

"So...what's that dress for?" I asked in curiosity.

Mine looked up. "Hm? Oh...this is actually for the princess to wear to the masquerade. She's one of our best customers."

"Really?" I felt my heart pick up pace. Why on earth was I thinking so much about a girl I'd just met? It made no sense to me. I guess it was because I wanted so badly to figure out if she actually cared to see me again. I had to find out.

Now, I had my chance. I knew exactly what the princess was wearing. Even with her wearing a mask, I'd be able to find her. She'd be able to spot me easily, I'm sure. There's not many guys running around with bright orange hair.

I wanted to give her something in return. I decided that I would get her a small gift to pay her back for the ones she gave me.

"Madame Mine?" I said, feeling awkward. But, I'm sure she'd know the answer to what I wanted to know.

"Yes?" She looked up from her work.

"Hm. When you...um...want to say thank you or something to a girl you might have some interest in, what kind of gift would be best to give her?" I felt my cheeks heat up. I wasn't used to this sort of conversation.

Mine looked up at me with wide eyes. Then she smiled. "Oh? Do you like someone, Kyo?"

"I-I don't know. I might. I'm not sure yet. I was just wondering." I took sip of tea, doing my best to act like it was no big deal. But, she saw right through my ruse.

She stood up, hands on her hips. "Tsk tsk. Kyo, quit acting like it's no big deal. As for a gift, the best one to maybe woo her, and say thank you, would a flower. Not a bouquet, but a single flower. A white rose would be best. Ones with color would be too forward. But a single white rose is nice enough to say that you're interested in her, and that you're thankful for something she's done. A very sweet gesture."

Then, the voice of nightmares sprang to my ears.

"Oh? Do my ears deceivest me? Is Kyon falling madly in love with a young woman? Such a wonderful thing is romance!"

I turned in my chair to see Ayame standing in the front of the store, grinning from ear to ear. Shigure was behind him, smiling as well.

"Ah, now now Ayame. We musn't embarrass the young lad," Shigure said wagging his finger. "He's probably flustered enough!"

I felt my body rise with anger. "Who made you the judge of emotions, huh?" I said to both of them; but mainly to Ayame.

"Well, you were asking my lovely, dear wife for romantic advice! Rather strange since I'm available to aid you young men in the ways of wooing a woman!" Ayame said boldly.

Mine just smiled. "Well, I think he asked for my advice because I'm a woman myself, and I know what other women like...and the fact that you weren't here. He had to ask someone!"

Ayame walked over and put his arm around Mine. "'Tis true, my lovely wife. You are also quite suitable for him to ask advice from! One of the reasons I married you is your deep love and knowledge of romanticism! Not to mention how sweet and pretty you are!"

Mine giggled and blushed. "Why, thank you!" Ayame then leaned down and kissed her.

I stood there the feeling of awkwardness increasing. "Uh..."

Then, they stopped kissing, and turned to me. "Now, Kyon-Kichi, I must give you some advice: when you see this young woman again, don't let your feelings consume you so much you are a little too forward in your kissing! This is no way to win her heart. You must take it one step at a time. No sticking your tongue down her throat!"

I finally had enough. I growled in embarrassment, and pulled his trousers from the bag, and threw them at his head. "Just take the stupid trousers." And shut your stupid mouth, I thought.

Ayame only laughed. "HA HA HA! I hope you find my advice useful!"

"Oh, I'm sure he will, Ayame," Shigure said, chuckling. "Your advice is always so helpful!"

I threw some trousers at Shigure. "You too."

I then turned to go out the door, leaving Ayame and Shigure to their own stupid antics. I began to walk down the street, the rainstorm having ended.

The stop there wasn't a total waste. I knew what she'd be wearing, as well as what to give her. I also got some advice I didn't even need, nor particularly want. Thanks, Ayame for such wonderfully helpful advice. It's not like I'm some creep that would actually do that to a girl. But now I wonder what kind of person Ayame was when he wasn't married.

Either way, I was glad to know what my next plan of attack was.

When I made it back home that night after my errands, Lady Akito was waiting to scold me about Yuki's foot; just like I figured she would.

"You stupid child!" she said, glaring at me. "Why do you let your temper go so easily? Yuki has a burned foot now thanks to your incompetence. Now he can't do most of his chores for a few days! Throwing things does not help anything."

Yeah. I thought. Like you're one to talk. Lady Akito had a reputation for having a horrible temper. She's thrown stuff at us numerous times.

"Yes, Lady Akito," I said with a sigh. "I will not throw things."

She crossed her arms. "You better. The three of you will not ruin my reputation. If word gets out that I can't even control a couple of teenage servant boys, people will start questioning my abilities even more about whether or not I can train a bunch of men to be musketeers. People already doubt me since I'm a woman." She turned away. "I'm warning you...if you three can't behave from now until the masquerade, you aren't going." Then she walked out the door.

"We've got to keep our arguing down until the masquerade. We won't be able to get out if we keep acting like this," Haru said stretching. "Not to mention, I won't get to meet any beautiful women if we get cooped up here that night."

Yuki grimaced. "Is that the ONLY reason you want to get out? To party and meet women? What about keeping our sanity?"

"Oh, come on, Yuki. You know you want to meet some girls. I bet you you'll meet a girl at the masquerade." Haru began to re-bandage Yuki's foot.

Yuki sighed. "Well, yeah, I'd like to. But, I mainly want to get out because I hate being stuck here so much."

"I think it might be better if you already meet someone before you go," I said, turning to them. "Takes the trouble away of having to mingle." I grimaced. I wasn't one for small talk.

Haru stared blank faced at me. "That's an odd statement. Well, not that odd seeing as you're not exactly the most social person there is. Did you meet someone?"

I felt my face heat up. "I never said that," I mumbled, turning to pick up and read some out of my book.

"I think you did," Haru said, standing up. "Tell us about her."

"Why should I?"

"Well, it's a big event. We never knew that you really had an interest in girls."

I shot an angry look at him. "What's THAT supposed to mean? Of course I'm interested in girls! I just don't talk about it with you guys!"

"Haru does have a point, Kyo. You talk about girls less than any guy I've met," Yuki said to me.

I began to grumble a bunch of nonsense under my breath. I was trying so hard not to explode. So...they basically thought I wasn't a man because I didn't talk about girls that much? Was it really that weird?

Then, the doors opened. "Are you boys fighting again?" Kazuma, a friend of ours came in, pulling off his big hat with a feather. I call him 'shishou', though. He is one of the musketeers. People say his sword fighting rivals that of Ayame's.

"No, we aren't," Haru said calmly. "Just having a borderline heated discussion."

Shishou chuckled. "I see. Are you sure you just aren't trying to annoy Kyo again?"

Haru said nothing, and just stared blankly off into space.

"Hm. Well then, I think now would be a good time to back off, eh?" He smiled good naturedly. He ruffled my hair and said, "And how are you doing today?"

I gave him a small smile. "Okay, I guess."

He turned to Haru and Yuki. "If you don't mind, I'd like to have a discussion with Kyo for a bit."

"Sure Shihan," Yuki said, standing up. He and Haru walked off into the bedroom.

I turned to Shishou, waiting for him to tell me what was going on.

"A couple of my fellow musketeers told me that you were having girl issues. I wanted to come and talk to you about it a bit if you don't mind."

I shook my head. Shishou was the only person I could talk to about anything. In a way, he's like the father I never had. "Yeah...I...think I met the princess today. I found something she lost, and she gave me one of her handkerchiefs and...um, a kiss." I felt my cheeks heat up again. I don't think I ever went through a day where I blushed as much as I did. I pulled out the handkerchief and handed it to him.

"She didn't tell me her name, but, it's embroidered on there."

He ran his fingers over the embroidery, studying it. "Hm. That's her name, all right. It probably was the princess, seeing as 'Tohru' isn't a common name. Which is strange, since she's in the position she's in." He smiled, and handed the handkerchief back to me.

"Should I...should I go to the masquerade and see her? Would it be worth it?" I asked, curiously.

He looked at me, considering. Then he nodded. "I don't see what it would hurt. I've met the princess quite a few times. She's definitely a very kind person. She's friendly with everyone, and remembers everyone she meets. I'm certain she'd be very excited to see you again."

I nodded back. "Okay then. I'll go to the masquerade and see her."

"Do you know what to bring to her as a gift? But as common courtesy, if you're interested in someone, it's always good to bring something," he told me. "Not anything big, but something simple."

"I was already planning on it. Madame Mine told me that a white rose would be good," I told him the information I had learned. "I also received some information from Ayame that I didn't particularly need." I grimaced in disgust.

Shishou let out a small chuckle. "Shigure told me about the whole thing. I know exactly what advice Ayame gave to you. And, I agree, it's not any advice you really need. You're not a bad kid."

-Curtains Up-

(Tohru's POV)

-1 week later, Day of Masquerade-

There was one thing after another in the past week that I needed to attend to; but I kept thinking about the young man named Kyo that I had met. I had thought about him so much, that I had developed a crush on him. I could not get him out of my mind.

I had tried, of course, but to no avail. I was so distracted that I had forgotten of things that I needed to take care of. So, I decided that day I was going to go down to the church, and pray with my rosary that maybe I could at least see him once more to see if it would go anywhere. Either way, once I got closure, I could get back to focusing once again. I felt horrible for being such a burden on everyone.

I sat on my knees that morning at the altar, my hands gripping the beads tightly. I was praying so hard that I almost lost touch with everything around me. A few of the priests were chanting and walking around with incense, the scent from it filling the large cathedral.

Finally, I felt a hand touch my shoulder. "Tohru?" Saki's soft voice came into my ear. "I'm sorry to interrupt. We need to be heading back to the castle. We've been here for almost two hours. There is much to do today."

I said 'amen', and opened my eyes to look up at her. "Yes. I'm sorry. I think everything will be fine now." I slowly stood up, and we turned to walk out. Before we left, I turned to one of the priests with a small curtsy, and bid him good day.

We made our way back to the castle, and into my bedchambers, where Arisa was helping my little sister Kisa pick shoes to wear with her costume that night. She was going as a fall faerie, and I was going as a winter faerie. My seamstress, Mine, would be by probably any minute with my dress, as well as Kisa's dress.

I sat down in the seat next to Kisa, and looked to Arisa and Saki. "Have you both decided what you're going to be?"

Arisa picked up a peach colored pair of shoes. "I finally decided I'm going as a blue fish. I thought it'd make for a nice costume."

"I'm going as batman," Saki said, blank faced.

We all paused, looking at her very strangely. "B-bat-man?" I asked confusedly.

"You're not serious are you? What on earth is batman?" Arisa asked her, cocking an eyebrow.

"No, I'm not serious. Batman hasn't even been invented yet. But, I think in about 800 years or so years it will be. I am going as a bat, though."

"Who on earth would create something so strange sounding as a 'batman'?" Arisa sighed, shaking her head.

Saki shrugged. "I don't know."

Kisa giggled. "That would be a interesting sight to see!"

After we had figured out what shoes Kisa would wear, it was time for tea. But, Kisa had declined to stay with us for tea again. She wanted to meet up with a friend. I didn't mind though. It was good that she had made a friend. She was constantly cooped up in the castle.

I looked out the window as she walked through the gate. I saw her run towards a boy that looked to be about her age. She hugged him, and he gave her a small, quick kiss. Then, they held hands, and walked down the street.

My eyes widened in surprise. My dear sweet little sister...had a secret beau? I smiled as I watched them walk. I could tell by looking at him that he wasn't really wealthy. He didn't look poor though. A commoner, some would say. I try not to group people together like that though. I don't like to judge others based on social class. Though, I know quite a few that do. I just wish that maybe she had told me what was going on. But, I understood why she didn't. It could create an uproar among a lot of people if anyone found out about it. Many believed that love should be kept within their social status. But like my little sister, I didn't really care about that.

"Mademoiselle, what are you looking at? We must be getting down for tea," Saki said to me.

"Yeah. We don't want to keep the other three ladies waiting," Arisa said, opening the door. "You know how much two of them complain when we do."

I turned around. "I'm sorry. I was just watching Kisa leave with her friend. We can go now."

When we made it to the tea room we found, to our surprise, that our guests had not arrived yet. We sat down and began to wait. The first to arrive was Duchess Machi. She's very quiet and reserved, quite lady like. Our other two guests that were supposed to come was Lady Isuzu and Lady Akito. I was surprised that they both decided to come for tea. They both don't exactly get along that well. There's another...Lady Kagura who lives with Lady Isuzu, but, unfortunately, Lady Kagura had other business to attend to.

Then, we heard them coming.

"Why do you have to act like this every time we see each other? Seriously, who made you the queen over everyone?" We heard Isuzu say angrily.

"Shut up! At least I don't walk around looking like a harlot with my bosoms hanging out!" Akito yelled back.

"You are so full of it! I can't exactly help it! The way dresses are made these days along with the corsets don't exactly make it easy to be completely covered up...especially with someone like me!"

"You're wealthy, are you not? I'm sure you could find a way! It's no wonder you can't find a man."

"Oh, that's rich, coming from you," Isuzu said. I looked over, and I could see her rolling her eyes. "When was the last time you actually had a beau? I'm more likely to get one than you are...you're always screaming at people."

"Ha! You don't exactly have the best temperament either."

Isuzu stopped, glaring at her. "At least I don't throw things at people! You need more mental help than I do!"

This finally was the last straw for Lady Akito. She raised her hand and struck Isuzu across the face.

I stood up, and ran over to them. "P-please no fighting!"

Isuzu slowly looked up at Akito, and glared at her. She then turned to me. "I'm sorry, your highness."

Akito turned to me as well. "Yes, my apologies your highness."

"Can we...move on from this and adjourn to tea?" I asked in concern.

"Certainly, my princess," Akito said walking forward toward the tearoom. I wasn't sure, but she seemed to have a mocking edge to her voice, but I just decided to ignore it. She was probably still irritated with Lady Isuzu.

Isuzu turned to me. "I should have never decided to walk over here with her." Then we proceeded to walk into the tearoom.

Tea went well, I should guess. It got a little awkward at times because of the tension between Lady Akito and Lady Isuzu. Duchess Machi couldn't get a word in at all because of the bantering between the two of them. I felt really sad that she was left out of conversation. I also felt sad that Akito and Isuzu have such tight tensions between them.

After it was over, it was time to go get ready for the masquerade. Lady Isuzu and Duchess Machi decided to leave together, and Akito was on her own. As she was leaving, she turned to me and said, "Pardon me, your highness...but you should do well to be careful about who you pledge your loyalties. Some people aren't good company to keep." I kind of got the feeling that she was talking about Isuzu.

Before I could say anything, Arisa stepped in. "Excuse me, Lady Akito...but you have no right to talk to her like that. She is perfectly well capable of deciding who to pledge her loyalties to, as well as her friendships. She is your princess, and you'll do well to show her the proper respect." She glared at Akito threateningly.

"A-Arisa...really...it's o-kay..." I said, trying to get her to calm down.

Arisa shook her head. "No, no it's not. Who you choose as friends is your decision. Not hers."

Akito's face turned into and angry snarl. "Excuse me, but do you have any idea who you're talking to, wench?"

"Yes, I certainly do. And I'll have you know that I'm of higher rank than you are." Arisa stepped forward, looking Akito dead in the eye. "Saki and I are not only Tohru's ladies-in-waiting, but we're also her best friends. We answer to her and look out for her on a daily basis. If we feel her authority, and physical or emotional well-being is being threatened, we will step in and do something. If we tell the parliament or law enforcement that something is going on, something will be done about you; and we'll find a way to handle you...and you won't like it."

The look on Akito's face didn't falter. She spoke through gritted teeth. "Well, then you should realize that I'm head of the best law enforcement organization in all of France! I would have a case!"

"Well then, that leaves parliament, doesn't it? It's our word against yours," Saki piped in.

Akito's face suddenly dropped. She had a glare on her face, but said nothing. Then, she turned, and stomped down the hallway.

Arisa sighed heavily. "The woman has got some serious issues."

"No doubt, Arisa," Saki agreed.

I stood there in shock, not really sure what to say. I don't like people arguing, and I do my best to avoid it. I honestly don't know what I could have said to make the situation any better.

-Curtains Up-

(Five hours later, 4:00 pm)

I sat in front of the vanity mirror as Saki rolled my hair up into a bunch of long curls. I was nervous about the ball, and if I would see that young man. I really did hope I saw him tonight.

"Ugh. Where on earth is Madame Mine?" Arisa exclaimed. "She needs to bring those dresses in."

Saki sighed. "Calm down Arisa. I'm sure She'll have a good explanation. Mine has never been late before. We should be worrying about where Princess Kisa is."

"Hm. That's true. I wonder where she is?" I said in curiosity.

Then, all of the sudden she burst in, huffing and puffing. "I...I'm sorry...I'm l-late..." There was sweat dripping from her face.

Arisa suddenly grabbed a towel, and rushed over to wipe off her face. "Goodness, Kisa! Were you running?"

"Uh-huh," she said nodding. "I kind of...got caught up and didn't realize what time it was. I'm sorry..."

"It's okay, Kisa," I said, looking over at her. "You didn't mean to. I'm sure you were having fun with your friend."

Kisa's cheeks became even more red than they already were. "Y-yes. I certainly did. I had lots of fun today."

"That's good," Saki said, smiling. "I'm glad that you were able to get out for a while."

Then, Madame Mine came in in a huff this time as well. "I am so sorry, your highness! I just had one order after another and-"

I stood up, and smiled. "It's okay, Madame Mine. Really, it's just fine. We all figured you were really busy."

Mine calmed down, and looked at me in surprise. "Oh...thank you so much your highness! Such kindness I do not deserve today!" she curtsied. "I really do feel bad that I didn't get these dresses in sooner today." She set the bag down on the floor, and opened it, pulling out Kisa's costume first. It was a deep rich purple velvet, and orange silk accents. There were beautiful gold buttons going up the back, and a large bow under the last button. Orange faerie wings came out of the back.

Then, she pulled out Arisa's dress. It was a a dark green-blue silk with siliver embroidery all the way through to look like fish scales. Saki's dress was a black lace and silk ball gown with bat wings connected to the sleeves and skirt.

Then, Mine pulled out my white ball gown with light blue faerie wings and blue beading. It looked similar to Kisa's dress, only it was poufier, made of white silk, and had silver buttons rather than gold. Every one couldn't believe their eyes.

"Madame Mine!" I said, running my fingers over the beautiful silk gown. "You really out did yourself! I had no clue it would be this beautiful! All of the costumes are simply stunning!"

Mine bowed happily. "Yay! I'm so glad you like them all! You four will look so stunning tonight!"

"All thanks to you," I said giving Mine a bow. "You are so very talented!"

The four of us slipped into our dresses, and put on our masks. My mask was white and silver, shaped like a butterfly. Arisa and Saki's masks were of the same colors as their dress. Kisa's was the same as mine, only purple and gold.

I couldn't believe it as I looked into the mirror. We had the masquerade every year...but, none of us had ever worn anything this beautiful to it. We all looked really wonderful. I was very excited to be sharing this night with my three favorite ladies in the whole wide world.

Then my thoughts jumped back...I also hoped I could share it with that young man named Kyo.

I still couldn't believe that I hadn't stopped thinking about him. Tonight would be the night I figured out whether or not I could pursue him any further. We would see.

-Curtains Up-

(Kyo's POV)

As we made our way into the castle for the masquerade, I was quite surprised by the number of people. There seemed to be more this year than the year before. I adjusted my black mask to make sure it was straight. I had dressed up as a pirate. It may sound stupid, but I had a hard time deciding on a costume. So, that's what I finally decided on at the last second.

I turned back to Haru who was dressed as a jester. I gave him a death glare. "Haru...I'm serious. If you drink too much, or get into another fight, I will punch your lights out when we get home, got it?"

Yuki agreed. "Yes, Haru, don't make a fool of yourself. I really don't want to bail you out of another situation and get thrown out." Yuki was dressed as a Lord, or something. I'm not exactly sure what he was.

Haru only stared at me blankly, and nodded. I sighed, and turned off to go find the princess. I gripped the rose tightly in my hand that I would give to her. I hoped she would accept it.

I began my search in the ballroom, where I assumed she'd be. Unfortunately, she wasn't there. I began to rack my brains again, trying to think of where on earth she might be.

I turned to leave, but then felt a hand on my shoulder.

"Well, hello there, Monsieur," a woman's voice said.

I turned to see a woman in a blue peacock costume. Her mask and dress were a deep blue, and she had dark brown hair.

"H-hello," I said with a nod. "Look, I really can't talk right now, I-"

She cut me off. "You're saying you can't spare one measly little moment to dance with me? A Lady?"

I shook my head. "No, really...I'm here to see someone else."

The girl stuck her lip out. "Well, that's too bad. All the good gentleman are taken tonight. What's your name?"

"Kyo," I told her hurriedly.

"Well, Monsieur Kyo, I'm lady Kagura. And I would really like it if you would dance with me for a few minutes at least," She said flirtatiously.

Unlike some guys, I'm immune to flirtatious advances. Unless it's a girl I'd be interested in, I could honestly care less. And this was one girl I really had no interest in.

"I really can't. I have this rose I have to take to someone," I said, showing it to her.

She frowned. "Fine. Obviously, there's no one here interested in me anyway." She turned away sadly.

"Wha? Wait a second..." I felt a twinge of guilt ignite in me. I wasn't trying to hurt her feelings...

"Why...why won't...ANYONE DANCE WITH ME?" She got this enraged look look on her face, and all of the sudden grabbed one of my arms and pushed me to the floor, bending one of my arms behind my back. I was so shocked then that I couldn't do anything. I mean...this was a girl. I couldn't fight back!

"OW!" I exclaimed in pain. "Lemme go! Lemme go!"

Then, someone pulled her off of me. "Honestly, Kagura, get a grip! It is not the end of the world if someone doesn't want to dance with you!"

"Oh...um..." Kagura stared down at me. "I'm sorry...I just...got carried away." Then she began to cry. "I feel so lonely tonight, Rin!"

The other woman helped me stand up. She was wearing a scarlet red dress and mask. She had long black hair. She began to talk coldly to Lady Kagura. "Obviously. Look, there are plenty of guys still here to dance with. Go find one, Kagura."

Lady Kagura frowned. "Fine." She said, then she walked off.

"Please excuse her. She gets overly emotional about things. I'm Lady Isuzu by the way. Are you looking for someone?" She asked me.

"Uh...yeah. I'm looking for a girl I met recently. I'll just go finish looking for her," I said, turning, and rubbing my arm.

"Okay, well, I hope you find whoever you're looking for," she murmured.

I nodded, and turned off down the hallway. Lots of people everywhere. I kind of had a hard time getting through it was so crowded. Normally, I'd avoid the big crowds. Finally it hit me. She could very well be in the gardens. I decided I would check there.

When I made it to the gardens, I noticed that there were quite a few people out there too. Lots of people, especially couples walking around. Finally, I found a group of women standing around talking. One of them was wearing the same dress I saw in Mine's shop.

I made my way over carefully, and made it over to their group. Man, my heart was pounding so hard. I never felt so nervous before. When she finally saw me, I saw her eyes light up through her mask, and a huge grin spread across her face.

"Monsieur Kyo!" She said excitedly, coming over to me. "What a wonderful surprise! How are you?"

"I-I'm okay," I said, trying to give her a small smile back. I was a little surprised at her reaction from seeing me.

-Curtains Up-

(Tohru's POV)

I was so very excited to see him again. I knew it was him because of his orange hair.

"Are you having a good time?" I asked him, trying to make conversation.

"I guess. I just got here over ten minutes ago," he told me. "Good as can be expected." Then he pulled out a white rose from behind his back. "I...got this for you." His face became a bright pink. "I...got this to repay you for the gifts you gave me. Also to say that I was...glad to meet you."

I was sure my cheeks flushed too. "Oh..." I stared that the beautiful white rose that he came to give me. I really wasn't expecting a gift back from him. That was...so nice! That meant...he had to have some interest in me...didn't it?

I took the rose from him, then closed my eyes, and pressed it up to my nose. Then I opened them, and looked at Kyo. "Thank you. It's really beautiful!"

"So, uh, you like it?"

"No! Why would it be? This is even better than the gift I gave you, I think," I told him, running my fingers over the petals.

"Well then," he said, smiling a little. "I guess we're even."

I blushed again. "Okay."

Then, we began to take a walk through the garden.

-Curtains Up-

(Kyo's POV)

I was really glad that she liked the rose. After I'd given it to her, we began to take a walk, and talk.

"...So, you're a servant for Lady Akito? Do you enjoy it?" She asked me in curiosity.

I grimaced a bit. "I don't really like living there. But, it's a place to stay, you know? Haru, Yuki, and I are orphans. We met up when we were younger on the streets. Then, three of Akito's Musketeers convinced her to take us in. She did because she thought maybe we'd be useful to her one day. But, she hasn't started training us yet because she thinks that we're too immature to ever be worth anything."

She got a sad look on her face. "I'm sorry. It's your dream to be a musketeer, isn't it?"

"Yes," I replied, becoming filled with determination. "I want to be one more than anything!"

She smiled at me. "I hope it happens for you. I think you're a really great person, Monsieur Kyo. I think you and your friends should be musketeers."

I sighed. "I'm not entirely sure that will happen. Lady Akito is stubborn. A few of the musketeers have tried to convince her to let him train us, but, it never works."

Tohru looked at me with understanding. "I...can kind of understand where she'd be stubborn. I'm around her a lot, and...she...has a tendency to get easily angered. It's rather sad to me. I really don't quite know why that is."

"You know, I don't really know either...and we've been living at her house for over seven years," I said to her, crossing my arms.

"I guess we'll never really know," Tohru told me. "Do you ever get out to just relax or have fun?"

"Not really. We don't really do much to get out because Akito assigns so many chores for us. We got to get out tonight because it's a big event that everyone's invited too...and I don't think she wanted the three of us at home alone without the other servants there. She thought it would be too much trouble, I think."

Her face became sad. "Do you three argue a lot? Get into fights?"

"Yeah. We do. When you live with two people who are completely different from you, you're more than likely to butt heads. But we stick together because we don't really have anyone else to rely on. We can't really leave Lady Akito either...because she's our key to possible success one day."

She looked at me, face full of curiosity. "A-are you certain about that?"

I looked over at her, considering her words. To be honest, I wasn't really sure what to say. "I don't know."

I've thought about other options I might have. I'm sure that if I, or any of of wanted to, we could leave Lady Akito and go stay with one of the other musketeers. Ayame wouldn't mind, but he would annoy the living daylights out of me. Shigure wouldn't mind either, but it still wouldn't be the most favorable of conditions. Hatori would probably let us, but I'm not sure he'd be particularly thrilled. Our best option for if we wanted to leave would be to stay with Shishou. He's offered a few times...but, would it hinder my dream of being what I really wanted to be...a musketeer?

Maybe staying with Lady Akito was hindering me. She always would refuse training us. If I decided to live with Shishou, I could get training, and then he could go to Lady Akito and show her what I'm able to do. Then again, if I leave, she would probably be furious if we left, and would never let us be one know matter how much we wanted to be musketeers.

It was something I needed to think about.

Then, all of the sudden from behind me, I heard the sounds of yelling. We both turned to see what it was. When I saw, I felt anger rise up in me.

It was Haru, doing exactly what we told him not to do. He was obviously drunk, liquor bottle in hand, and his arms linked around two women's waists. They were laughing, shouting nonsense, and stumbling around.

"Haru..." I groaned in irritation.

"Eh?" Tohru's eyes widened in surprise. "Is that one of your friends?"

I wanted to say 'no', but lying to the princess is not something I wanted to do. "I wish I could say no." I told her, crossing my arms. "He's doing exactly what we told him not to do!" I was feeling a definite mix of anger, and embarrassment.

Tohru stared, her face quizzical about the situation. "Is he...d-drunk?"

"Yes, I think so," I said, covering my face.

I could still hear Haru, acting like a huge moron. Oh, in the morning, hangover or no hangover, he was going to get it. Tonight, I didn't want to stick up for him. He brought this upon himself, and Yuki and I were sick of covering for him whenever he got in trouble.

I looked up. "I think...someone needs to escort him back home."

Tohru gave me a sad look. "I guess you have to leave, then."

I looked at her. I'm sure disappointment was showing on my face. "Yeah. I'm really sorry." I was about to turn away, but then I turned back. "If you don't want to meet up with me again after this, I'll understand. But, I'm not like Haru. I don't drink or anything."

She gave me a small smile. "I know. I didn't think you did. I don't know you that well, but so far, I think you're a really great person."

I blushed, and turned away. "I'm really not that great a person...," I murmured.

She laughed a little. "So, do you want to meet again?"

I looked up at her. "Sure."

"How you meet me tomorrow at three here in the gardens?" She said, smiling.

I smiled back. "Yeah. I'll be here." Even if I had to sneak out, I'd be there.

"I'm glad." She said. "I'll see you then."

I nodded to her, feeling kind of sad that I had to leave. But, I tried not to show it.

I made my way over to Haru, grabbing him by the shirt. He was talking to the woman in the red dress I had met earlier. Lady Isuzu, I think it was.

"Time to go Haru," said through gritted teeth, pulling him away.

"Excuse me," the woman said. "What do you think you're doing?"

I gave her an irritated look. "He's drunk, and this isn't the best place for him to be."

"Aw, lighten up Kyo!" Haru said, his breath hitting my face. I almost gagged.

"No, we're going," I said, continuing to pull him. "He doesn't need to be here right now."

Then, I felt a hand on my shoulder. I looked up, and it was Shishou. "Let me handle this Kyo."

I let go of Haru's shirt, and Shishou took over. "Haru, lets go. Now."

Haru looked up at him. "Uh, yes..." He nodded, starting to stumble forward. I caught him, putting his arm over my shoulder.

"Why do you have to do this every time, Haru?"

"Why can't... yoooou lighten uuuup?" He said to me, speech slurred.

"Now, Haru, Kyo is right. It' s not right to ruin everyone else's night by doing things you know you shouldn't be doing." Then he turned to Lady Isuzu, and took off his hat, bowing. "My apologies, Lady Isuzu. You must understand though that we must regrettably take him home."

She sighed in irritation. "Fine. Whatever. Have a good night, Monsieur Haru."

"You toooo," he said.

Then, we turned off, helping Haru walk. This night ended the way all the other times at events like this have.

I'm just glad that Tohru wanted to see me again.

A/N: I apologize for taking so long to do this chapter. I will continue doing Marmalade as well. I know that in the summary I said I was going to do some editing on it, but I changed my mind and decided to leave it as is, and continue the story. I realized I didn't do as bad as I had originally thought I done.

I realized it was probably a good thing that I stepped back and took a break from writing fan fiction. It helped my head fill up with more ideas for my stories. I just feel bad I took so long!

Anyway, I'd like to thank my readers for their patience while I took so long to complete this chapter and to start working on my other one again! It was much appreciated!

3, and God Bless,

Takara-Star-Chan