Hi Minna-san! I haven't been updating -_-... Please bear with me O.O I have hardcore practices with my Recognition Day and I'm having a hard time to think of wonderful stories -_- ANYWAY. Enjoy this chapter :)

Disclaimer: I don't own any of GA... :D

Mikan's POV

Today is already Friday. Time seems to fly so fast now-a-days eh?. I still can't get out of my mind what happened last Monday when the Prince allowed me to ride on his horse. It was sure a fantasy to ride on one of the horses of the Palace! Oh anyways, I'm in Hotaru's so called 'Room' (which for me is a very weird place full of weird bots going everywhere doing the household chores) in the Academy. She told me to come here before classes begins and gave me this little map she made so I wouldn't be lost and here I am now, in this room waiting for her to come outside from her bedroom. Currently she was organizing her lesson plans for the class and obviously, she'll take time.

Normal POV

After 2 hours of waiting, Hotaru came out of her room and went to where Mikan is. Hotaru entered the Kitchen carrying a big white box. Mikan noticed the box and asked, "Oh Hi there Hotaru. What's that big box you're holding?"

"Before anything else, do you already have something to wear for the ball?" Hotaru asked opening the box a little for her to see if everything was there inside.

"Well, I haven't had the time to find a store selling beautiful gowns and masks." Mikan thought for a while.

"Don't buy anymore Mikan. This big white box I'm holding is for you. Everything inside here are for the Masquerade Ball. Take Care of it or else you won't have anything to wear on the event." Hotaru said and handed the box to Mikan.

"Is this why you called me to go here?" She grinned sheepishly.

"Yes. There's nothing else." Hotaru immediately replied.

Mikan ran to her best friend and tried to hug her but swiftly, Hotaru blocked Mikan's face using her hand.

"I don't want to be mushy-mushy and cheesy and I know that you know that. So leave now before I take back everything I gave you and change my mind." Hotaru stoically said.

Mikan turned her back to Hotaru and went to get the box. She sighed but inwardly, she knows that her best friend cares for her so much. She only doesn't want to show off her affection to Mikan because of her pride. Mikan then silently went out the door, but before she could entirely shut it she mouthed a 'thank you' to Hotaru.

When Mikan entered her dorm/house, she went dashing to her bedroom immediately making Misaki curious. She closed the door of her bedroom and opened the box revealing a long balloon-like gown, pink pump shoes, and a very beautiful mask. The gown had a mixture of the colors pink and white making it a sight for the eyes. It had sash-like straps that goes just a little below the shoulder and strings near the chest part. The lower part of the gown had some Sakura Petals design and some glitters making it more beautiful. The pumps were in light pink and had some lines, abstractly put together. On the other hand, the mask was in the shape of a butterfly. The mask only covers the upper part of the face (which are the eyes ) and some parts of the face. It has glittery outlines that makes it stand out and has curvy tips with stars. Mikan was taken a back with what she received from Hotaru. Never did Hotaru gave her expensive items unless it's just too important. She fit the clothes and fantastically, it did fit well. The gown enveloped Mikan's body showing off her curves. She was indeed very thankful to have a best friend like Hotaru.

The staffs in the palace are extremely busy this week especially that the celebration of the 18th Anniversary of the King and Queen are soon. Staffs in different departments are in charge of different certain things like the Chefs, who will of course make food and will also ready the menu for the ball. Even the Prince and Princess are busy finding a perfect outfit for the celebration. As for Natsume, he didn't actually liked trying out different clothes in just a day. Aoi was with him but the purpose of her presence is really annoying Natsume which is; to judge everything he wears. A nice reason eh? Many of us will sure enjoy company from our siblings but for Natsume, it is definitely not a nice thing to enjoy.

Natsume came out of the dressing room and came out wearing a tuxedo. He had a crimson red necktie wrapped around the collar of his white polo.

"Nii-san! That is the perfect outfit for you!" Aoi squealed happily.

"Really?" Natsume slowly faced the mirror and smirked in satisfaction.

"Then I'll wear this." He announced proudly.

"Class, today's topic is all about Table Manners. As all of you know, table manners are indeed important especially to the Royals. Princesses must act well-mannered while eating and not some kind of pig which hasn't been eating for years. Let's start with the utensils used."

Mikan was miraculously, listening very well. Ever since the start of classes, she hasn't been listening to the class, well actually pretending to. Her mother taught her since she turned 6, how to be a proper-behaved woman. Her mother told her that she wanted to teach her these to help her when she attends Princess Academy already. Anna and Nonoko were amazed with how Mikan was raced by her parents even though they were just living a simple and ordinary life.

"Miss Sakura, care to explain what a fine dining restaurant is?" Hotaru called her making everyone stare at her.

"A fine dining restaurant is seen by many people as a fancy type of restaurant. It is a common place to see in many downtown areas. Anyone who is interested in a fine-dining excursion should consider what fine dining is before heading out.

A fine-dining establishment is a restaurant that features meals that are served in a formal environment. The materials used to deliver the food and the atmosphere and décor of the restaurant will be very nice looking. This is something that will make an eating environment more formal in its appearance. It is something that can add to a nice evening out.

An establishment like this will generally work with meals that have predetermined courses in them. A typical meal will consist of three or four courses. These include things like an appetizer, a small entrée like a soup or salad, a major entrée like beef or lamb and then a dessert. The foods that are served here are very formal and are very well prepared.

The portions of meals at one of these places will be small by each entrée. However, they will still be portions that will be well arranged. This is because the portions will work with the formality of the restaurant in mind.

Fine-dining can also involve foods and ingredients that are made with greater standards in mind. Quality standards are used thanks to how the owners of a fine-dining establishment will work as a small enterprise. A typical fine dining restaurant will have only one location or it might have three or four depending on what it is. Either way it is not some kind of chain that would have a deal with some company to provide foods for preparation.

The formality of fine dining is a key factor to the experience. Fine dining will involve dining in an area that is very luxurious. In many cases it can have live musical entertainment from a pianist or string player. It can also offer waiters and others who wear formal outfits.

The formal outfits that people wear will be strongly encouraged. A fine dining establishment will require people to wear formal clothes. The dress code of an establishment like this will vary but it is generally best to wear a suit and tie or a long dress when heading out to this type of place.

Reservations are often required as well. A place like this can be small in size due to the meticulous preparation that is needed for foods here. This is why a person who is going to be heading out to a fine dining restaurant will need to get reservations well in advance of a visit. In most cases the reservations will have to be handled days in advance but sometimes it can take weeks to get into some of the best fine dining places in town."

Mikan explained as if she was a professional mentor making everyone in class drop their jaw, not for Hotaru of course. Hotaru does know how knowledgeable Mikan is especially that her Mother taught her cleverly. Its as if their family's genes were naturally "Royal-like" as what she calls it.

"Very well said and explained Miss Sakura. You may be seated now." Hotaru said.

Mikan innocently sat quietly and continued to pay attention in class.

"Put them just right in between of every window." a 20 year old Ruka directed the Staff in charge of putting up decorations. It was really hard for Ruka especially that he was recently promoted from being a simple Butler to the palace to being the Head Executive of all Departments. You heard it right folks, from a Butler to a Head Executive. He served the Palace for a decade already earning the trust of the whole Palace. Even the newcomers liked him, well of course as their Boss not any other interest. He continued his job when he noticed that the King and Queen were approaching him.

"Ah your highnesses. May I help you with anything?" He bowed his head a little.

"Honestly, I would just like to see if everything is doing fine but Kaoru here told me that she has something to tell you." Ioran said.

"What is it Madam?" Ruka asked.

"After all, you are one of Natsume's best accompany here. Will you please follow him? He is actually in the Academy, behind the Cafeteria building." Kaoru hesitantly said.

"Of course Madam, it'll be a pleasure to do that but who will manage here?" He was happy deep inside now that he can talk with his guy best friend once again but he must do his responsibilities as the Head Executive of the Palace.

"Tsubasa volunteered to be your replacement for a while." Kaoru said.

"Then I'll leave now your highnesses. I will report immediately if anything happens." He bows down again and left.

It was already dismissal time in the Academy when Mikan decided that she'll be staying at the Sakura tree for a while to have peace in mind. She sat down behind the tree and bushes so that no one will see and disturb her. She was astounded when she saw a bear walking cautiously towards her. She didn't expected the bear to hug her.

"Hi there Mr. Bear. How are you?" She smiled.

Mr. Bear then slowly pulled her to the trees. She was hesitant to follow at first but eventually she followed Mr. Bear. They walked through a pathway that was obviously carved throughout the forest. When Mr. Bear suddenly stopped, she saw a little cottage in the middle of the trees. Mr. Bear pulled a little hem of her skirt obliging her to come in. She nodded and grinned. Upon entering, she noticed a Horse tied up at a near branch. Before she could even go to the familiar horse, Mr. Bear pulled her hand inside the cottage. Unexpectedly, there she saw a sitting figure drinking a cup of tea and reading a manga.

"Your highness, How do you do?" She smiled brightly catching the attention of the said person.

"You again? Are you a stalker?" Natsume smirked as he removed the manga covering his face.

"Of course I'm definitely not a stalker. Mr. Bear here showed me the way to his little cottage." She rolled her eyes a bit and pointed at Mr. Bear.

"Be quiet eh? You can see that I am reading something here." He said returning his attention to reading his manga.

"Ano, Your highness? C-can I ride on Sakuki again?" Hope in her dazzling eyes.

"Sure then. As long as you let me guard the both of you so you won't injure each other or even do something unpleasant to her." He closed the manga and looked straight into Mikan's eyes showing authority.

"Oh okay!" She smiled in glory. Mikan dashed out immediately outside and waited for Natsume to come out. Mr. Bear suddenly pulled out a paper offering it Natsume and he read it. Written there were the words: 'Do you like Mikan-chan?' Mr. Bear stared at Natsume for a while.

"Even you ? You actually think I like her?" He sighed. just shrugged and pointed out the door implying that Natsume must go out to check on Mikan and Sakuki.

Ruka arrived already at the Academy using his own horse, Kyle. He went straight behind the Cafeteria building and there he saw no one but the Sakura Tree who's standing alone in the warm breeze. He concluded that Natsume might be in Mr. Bear's cottage so he went to the pathway that leads to the little cottage. He was astonished when he saw his cousin, Mikan riding Sakuki. Ruka knows that Sakuki is owned by Natsume and knowing his best friend, he never really lets anyone ride his horse unless that person asks for permission, is close to him, OR unless that person amazes Natsume. Ruka tied up Kyle to a near tree trunk and decided to be cautious with every step he makes so he can hear what they're going to talk about and sat down behind the bushes to begin his surveillance.

Sakuki's hooves were click clacking on the ground. Mikan was enjoying the whole time and Natsume did sure was amazed by how boldly Mikan asked for permission to ride on his horse. When Mikan already stopped and settled down on the ground, Natsume started a conversation.

"You are required to attend the ball am I right?" He asked while reading again his manga.

"Yes your highness. Why'd you ask?" Mikan answered while petting Sakuki's head.

"Nothing. Is there something wrong with asking?" He smirkes.

"Well, if you're going to as-" Mikan was cut off by a loud yelp behind the bushes. The both of them turned their attention to the bushes and jogged towards it. There they saw Ruka who was lying on the grass with a quite huge stone on his feet. Swiftly, Natsume and Mikan carried the stone out of his foot and bombarded questions.

"Oi Ruka you were asked to follow me again eh?" Natsume raised a brow.

"Y-yes. Your mother told me to! You know I can't say no to her especially now that there 18th anniversary is soon." Ruka was still holding on his red feet.

"Eh? You know each other?" Mikan was confused now. Never did she knew that Ruka and Natsume know each other.

"Yes Mikan we are best friends." Ruka heartily laughed.

"What! You are best friends with the Prince? Since when!" Mikan was shocked of course.

"Since I was 10. When I started serving the palace." Ruka smiled.

"Oh" Mikan uttered.

"You know each other?" Natsume alternatively points out Ruka and Mikan.

"Yes your highness. We're cousins." Mikan declared.

"What the? You don't even look like cousins. You look like siblings!" Natsume massaged his temples for a while to avoid having headaches and frustration.

"Anyway, why are the two of you here?" Ruka stood up dusting off his pants.

"I was here first to hang out then she came." Natsume immediately replied and pointed out Mikan.

"How bout' you Mikan?" Rukas asked.

"Well, school hours had just ended and I decided to go sit under the Sakura Tree when suddenly I saw walking towards me. He pulled me and lead me to his little cottage." Mikan said.

"Oh ok then. Mikan go to your dorm room already it's night time and as for you Natsume, let's go back to the palace already." Ruka said.

"Really? It's night time! Oh no! Misaki-senpai might be looking for me already. I'll leave now bye!" Mikan worriedly said and ran out of the forest leaving Ruka, Natsume, Sakuki, and Kyle.

"Oi Natsume, you like Mikan-chan eh?" Ruka teased.

"What the hell? Why do people keep on thinking that I like her!" He said frustrated.

"Obviously you like her Natsume. You act really 'not so you' to her. You let her ride on Sakuki. You always tease her. You even find her amazing!" Ruka chuckled.

"Ugh shut up Ruka. Let's just go to back to the palace." Natsume said while he ride on Sakuki's back.

"Ok then." Ruka then walked towards Kyle and rode on his back too.

"Mikan-chan where'd you go? Do you know what time is it already?" Misaki scolded her.

"A-ano Misaki-senpai, Gomen! I went immediately to the Sakura Tree behind the Cafeteria and eventually was lead by Mr. Bear to his cottage and there I saw the Prince and my Cousin too!" She quickly explained and bowed down her head to Misaki.

"Just don't go home late again Mikan-chan. It worries me a lot okay?" Misaki sighs.

"Yes Misaki-senpai. Gomenasai!" Mikan bowed down again but was stopped when she smelled the aroma of her favorite food.

"Our dinner is waffles?" Mikan gleefully asked.

"Yes my dear. So come sit here already and start eating." Misaki giggled. She knew that Mikan's favorite food was Waffles that's why she decided to cook it for tonight. They sat there eating the deliciously made Waffle and talked about random and different stuff. When they were done eating their meals, Mikan bid goodnight to Misaki and went to her bedroom immediately. She decided to write a letter for her parents since she didn't had the time to write one for this week.

Hi Mom and Dad!

How are you? Are you doing fine? Well, here I am. I am doing great in class. I didn't even expect that Hotaru will be my class adviser! Anyway father, How's Betty? Did she gave birth already? Oh and Mom, thanks for teaching me everything you learned and had gained. It helped me a lot. Oh you know what? I already met the Prince. My first impression of him was an arrogant person but, when he permitted me to ride on his horse, Sakuki, I started to like him (As my friend of course). I also met Ruka here! He is working as the Head Executive of all the Departments in the Palace and is the best friend of the Prince. Isn't that amazing? I also would like to inform you that a Masquerade Ball will be held this Sunday to celebrate the King and Queen's 18th Wedding Anniversary. Don't worry! Hotaru gave me a wonderful and stunning clothes for the ball. I miss you already! I hope I can see you some time.

Lots of love,

Mikan.

Mikan folded the letter for her parents and enclosed it in an envelope then put it inside her drawer. She went to her little comfort room and brushed her teeth. She went to change her School Uniform into her pajamas. Once she lay down on her Canopy Bed, she quickly drifted off to dreamland.

Yes indeed. Natsume is very amazed by Mikan's attitude especially her dazzling smile. He would always feel this tickling sensation every time he sees Mikan smile. He never really did know what it means but he just leaves it behind. When he arrived in the palace, he was welcomed by his parents who were just sitting and having tea.

"Ah, Natsume you're here. Would you like to have tea with us?" Kaoru smiled.

"No thanks Mother. I feel exhausted already." He said and yawned.

"Ruka told us what happened a while ago." Ioran teasingly said.

"What?" Natsume twitched.

"It seems like you like dear Mikan-chan eh?" Kaoru faced her son.

"Why do you keep on forcing that I like her?" He twitched.

"Well, if you say so. Go to your bedroom now Natsume and get some rest." Ioran smiled.

Natsume sighed and went directly to his bedroom not wanting to gain suspicious glances from his parents. He went to his closet and chose to wear a set of pajamas instead of the usual shirt and long pajamas. He brushed his teeth and after that, he went immediately to his bed and forced himself to get sleep.

NOTE: I'll be focusing on Mikan and Natsume's developing relationship for a while! You'll see the hardships and all some day XD R&R! Arigato :3