Gakupo was quite surprised when I strode into his office. In fact, he was shocked. I never bother to see the ridiculous council at any other time than meetings and the occasional meal.

A tall, large breasted woman sat on the edge of his polished desk. He long pink hair was mostly loose, and her low cut dress was a dark grey with pink trimming. She immediately stood and curtsied as soon as my presence was realized, her face as pink as her hair.

"You are dismissed." I barked. She mumbled a goodbye and left, obviously relieved.

Gakupo, meanwhile, had stood and started to recover from his surprise. His face was smooth once more, with a smile stretched across. His long hair swayed as he bowed to me.

"Princess." He greeted, his deep voice ringing in my ears. I tilted my head and placed a finger on my lips as I watched him.

"Sit." I said curtly, and he obeyed. I walked slowly towards him and smiled.

"I was just getting ready for the ball." I sang sweetly. He smiled hesitantly.

"I'm so excited! I have a new dress, you know." I babbled. He nodded, but did not say anything. I circled his desk, coming around to the back of his chair.

He started to turn, but my words stopped him.

"So I went to the jeweler."

He froze in his chair, his long back stiff and straight. I dropped the smile but made my voice sweeter.

"And wouldn't you know, the jewel I requested- was paste jewelry! A fake!" My voice climbed high, and he didn't move.

I pressed my hands onto the arms of the elegant chair and leaned forward to his ear.

"And I asked myself, who in the world would steal my jewelry?" I dropped the sweetness.

"And then someone told me exactly who it was."

He immediately flew out of his chair, smoothing back his hair.

"Princess, there are some things you don't have to understand, the country, it's in debt. We had to." He protested smoothly.

I laughed, a twinkly sound before narrowing my eyes.

"Oh, is it? The taxes were raised quite a bit though, and I noticed that despite the salary decreases for all staff, including you, councilor, that a few people had not only not decreased their salary but increased it!"

He paled, and began to back away as I strode forward.

"You, you used me!" I screamed. "You lied to me, and raised your salary! And now we are out of money, and I am supposedly the perpetrator!"

His face turned red. "Is that so princess?" he snarled. "As if you are not at fault. Who wasn't paying attention? Who spent thousands on this ball, along with a million other frivolous things?"

I slapped him, but he only smiled. "It is not us who are the perpetrator of this, Your highness. We only took the opportunity you gave to us. Yes, you."

It was as if he was the voice in my head, only right in front of me, proof of all my faults and failures. I felt myself flush deeper until I couldn't take it.

"GUARDS!" I shrieked, and they came barreling in.

"Arrest him!" I commanded, and they did. Gakupo did not struggle much, but as he left I heard him laugh.

"It will be you who pays, Princess! Not I, but you!" He screamed, laughing with a smile on his bright face, his purple hair escaping its tie as he moved. His face was flushed and his eyes wide as he laughed, laughed at me with those long silky strands of lavender framed his face. I turned away and glared at an approaching guard, his face wrinkled with worry as he watched me.

"Are you all right, Princess?" He asked me.

I stood straight, ignoring the laughter from the man being drug away. I looked the guard in the eye.

"Alert every councilor that the council has been dissolved, and if they come to me they will be put in chains." I ordered, my voice trembling.

"B-But-"

"Now."

He disappeared, and I stood in the hall by myself. Courtiers who had gathered at the commotion whispered and stared, and I felt their eyes on me, so I ran.

I ran down the corridors, twisting and turning until I finally found mine. I slammed the door closed and bolted every one of them, closing myself in. Locking myself in, and the others out.

My mind was like a constant spinning top, never pausing where I needed it to. I breathed heavily and sank down to the floor, pulling my knees to me. I willed myself not to cry, and my mind wandered to Len.

Where was he? I wanted him. I would have to wait for him.

And wait I did, slumped on the floor for a long time. Soon enough there was pounding on the door, and his voice.

"Rin! Rin, let me in!"

I pushed myself up, keeping a hand on the wall to steady myself. I went to the door and pressed myself against the solid thing.

"Are you alone?" I asked.

"Yes, yes!" he called. I unbolted the door and he hurried in, locking the door behind us.

He swept me up, and I immediately clutched at him.

"Len, they lied to me." I cried. He patted my back and carried me to a chair, sitting down with me in his lap.

"How dare they!" I sobbed. "My jewels, the treasury…"

"I know." Len cooed soothingly. I pressed my eyes against his shoulder, trying to block out the world from my sight.

"Did you know?" I asked him, my voice muffled.

"No, not really. Only suspicions." He told me softly.

"And I wouldn't listen." I whispered. I straightened and grabbed his arm.

"Len," I started, looking into his face. "Is it all my fault?"

His eyes softened and he pressed his forehead to mine.

"No Rin, It's not."

"He said it was." I argued tearfully. Len shook his head.

"You are young, and not raised to rule… you didn't know." Len explained. "How could you have known?"

I hiccupped and shrugged. Len wouldn't lie to me.

Len shifted. "Rin, you did a very dangerous thing." He pressed. I looked back up.

"What do you mean?" I asked.

He frowned. "The council. They are there to supposedly make sure the monarchy does not get out of control. The people will see this as a grave threat."

I bit my lip, but narrowed my eyes. "Len, they were corrupt! I am in charge here."

Len looked as if he were about to say something, but hesitated. He stroked my hair and sighed.

"Alright. If it's what you want." He succumbed.

I nodded firmly. He looked around.

"Why have you locked yourself in here?" He wondered. I sniffed and toyed with my necklace.

"They are all angry at me, staring at me. I wanted to be alone."

Len nodded wisely. I sat up and put my arms around his neck.

"But Len, as soon as the ball is over, I'll marry Kaito and everything will be fixed! They'll like me again, and we'll have money!" I said brightly. Len nodded again, but he looked doubtful. I didn't pursue it, just happy to feel better again.

I'm not in the dark anymore, I reminded myself. I'm no longer ignorant. I'm in charge. Everything will go perfectly.

Finally, the day of the ball had arrived. Kaito was to arrive with his entourage, and in the excitement the dismissal of the council was mostly forgotten.

I was in a flurry the entire day, overseeing the preparations. Len followed behind me dutifully all day, but I hardly had a moment alone with him, which did not improve my nervous mood.

As evening drew closer, I bade goodbye to Len as I prepared for the ball.

I had a warm bath, and then it began as soon as my shift was on. My ladies swarmed around me, primping and polishing happily.

My nails were done; my hair was groomed and done in an elaborate way so it would be swept up off my neck. It looked quite elegant, and a few roses adorned it as well. I hoped they wouldn't wilt and leave petals all over my head.

Claire, the kindest of the ladies, did my makeup.

"Not too much." I instructed. She nodded purposefully and began, her hands moving smoothly, surprisingly skillful.

"Are you excited Princess?" she asked me.

"Yes." I answered, careful not to move. "The Prince Kaito is coming."

She pursed her own lips as she applied something on my own. "Yes, I heard that."

I raised an eyebrow without thinking about it. "What else did you hear?" I asked quieter.

Claire concentrated on applying some powder, but her lips moved inconspicuously.

"I heard he is bringing a woman from the Green Country. Supposedly he is in love with her."

This was interesting, and I was suddenly glad to have such a sort of confidante in Claire.

"Oh?" I said casually. "A mistress?"

She shook her head slightly. "No, not that I've heard. She is a sweet girl, lives in a village."

I thanked Claire quietly, and she finished quickly and smiled at me, content with her work. Then I was absorbed back into the throng of the others, to get dressed.

My dress was pressed and fussed with, and laid on my bed. I had gotten a new corset just for the dress, and it was brought out.

I placed my hands on the bed post and held it tightly as they laced me up tightly. I hated this part the most, because they were always trying to make me even tinier than I was, and I hated the squished feeling I had until my stays loosened. However, tonight I had to be absolutely fetching, so I gritted my teeth as I was squeezed into the steel trap.

After that was finished, the special hoops for the dress were tied on carefully at my waist. They were so much wider than usual that I'd have to be careful when sitting down, if I sat down at all other than dinner.

A million wide petticoats were brought out, but I denied all but two. It wasn't uncommon for women to wear as many as five, but I thought my dress was wide enough, and I didn't want to get hot. The ballroom was surely to be stifling with all the people anyways.

Despite this sad setback for the ladies, they excitedly gathered round as my underskirt, then finally my dress was slipped on and tied up. A simple gold necklace was fastened at my neck, a real yellow diamond as the pendant. I had kept it in my jewel box due to its smaller size, so it had not been exchanged for a false.

They all complimented me on their finished product, as if I had something to do with it. More like a doll, but I smiled and accepted it anyways.

A mirror was brought, and I was pleased with my own image. My cheeks flushed pink and my skin glowed; my hair was luminous under the lamp's light. I looked wonderful in my dress, and a princess from head to toe.

I smiled at them, for I was glad they were good at something. Then I dismissed them to the hall, so I could have a few moments alone before departing for the ballroom.

They quickly ushered out, and I closed the door behind them. Once they were gone, I breathed out in a sigh, glad to have this moment for me.

I went to my bedside and opened the drawer of my nightstand. In it I took my old faded ribbon and carefully unfolded it to reveal Len's ring.

I smiled at it fondly; for it had been long since I had worn it. Once Len had returned, I had hardly the need. But tonight, I wanted the reminder of him to be with me constantly; a piece of my love. Even as I tried to catch Kaito.

The ring fit on my finger nicely, and was slightly heavy. It shone in the light and looked very fitting. Its engraving was fine in its details, each small swirl perfect. The tiny jewels embedded in it shone warmly, winking like small smiles.

Kaito. I hoped his girl wouldn't get in the way. Hopefully, I could use their bond to my advantage.

A knock startled me, but it didn't come from the front. It came from Len's room, through the parlor.

I hurried over and opened the door, revealing Len.

I squealed and hugged him, for I hadn't thought I'd see him again for a while. He hugged me lightly, as to not muss me.

I drew back, looking at him. He was stunning. His waistcoat was of a dark gold color, his pants a spotless white as they tucked into his shining boots at the knee. His cravat was pinned with a shining pin, and his hair shone as mine did, but pulled back neatly. His clothes fit well, his jacket highlighting his broader shoulders.

I breathed out in a delighted sigh. "Oh Len, you look so handsome!"

He smiled at me tenderly. "You look even more beautiful than before, like a doll."

I rushed forward to hug him again, pressing as close as I could in these hoops. He chuckled and smoothed back a stray piece of my hair.

"I'm wearing your ring." I added, lifting my hand to show him. He took my hand and examined it before kissing my ring finger softly.

"Good, I like to know you won't forget me." He said, his eyes startlingly intense. I giggled.

"Don't worry." I assured him, and our fingers intertwined as he held both my hands.

I smiled at him until he smiled back. I remembered something, and was glad I had met Len here.

"Len, Kaito is bringing along the woman he is supposedly in love with."

Len looked surprised. "So your plan will work, you think?"

I nodded. "Perhaps. But see if you can speak to her, get some information. The more we know, the better."

Len raised his eyebrow, staring at me shrewdly. "You've become quite crafty, Rin."

I gave him a wry smile. "I have to be, to secure our freedom."

He gave me a funny look. "You could call it that." He muttered.

I would have asked what he meant, but he kissed me swiftly and began guiding me back towards the door.

"Len-"

"I'll meet you sometime during the ball. Be as wonderful as you always are, and do what you need to do." Len said shortly.

I nodded, and he ran his fingers along my cheek, smiling at me lovingly.

"Don't forget about me." Len repeated as he backed away, the meaning doubly clear. I nodded, and he left.

I turned to the door, breathing in deeply before placing a large smile on my face. It was time.

The ballroom was absolutely magnificent. Yellow roses everywhere, along with others scented the room and gave it a heady and intoxicating smell. Swaths of red, gold, and silver cloth were draped elegantly, thick red velvet curtains and carpet elegantly trimmed the room. Huge chandeliers hung suspended like snowflakes, each crystal polished to perfection. When lit, they appeared to be a thousand fragments of mirrors, shining their light across the huge room. The marbled floor was polished to a shine, and chairs sat on it like thrones. It was one of the greatest sights I had ever seen.

The dining hall was open as well, with shining silver at each chair. The table shone like rich auburn glass. Everything was perfect.

The room was already filled to the brim with swaying couples. The men were finely pressed and buttoned, each one like a trim figurine, erect and handsome. The ladies swayed like upside-down flowers, their skirts spread like petals across the shining floor. They floated from step to step, their towering hair and huge skirts seemingly weightless. I examined each woman with a far-off glance, and realized Madame had done her job well. Not a single gown held a candle to mine.

As I stood watching them all, I felt a great feeling of power and satisfaction, watching the small figures from above as they twirled. From the tall, hidden balcony, I felt as if they were ants, ants I had gathered and had complete control over. I had brought them here. If I said dance, they would dance. The fools.

This feeling was replaced quickly as I spotted a tall, blue-haired man, surrounded by an entourage of people. And on his arm, a slender, beautiful woman with long teal hair.

She had a lovely smile and a faint blush lit her cheeks. Her skin was white as a lily, and she looked delicate and fragile. She wore a pink dress that complimented her hair, and it was simple, with a white trim. She didn't necessarily draw attention to herself, but that didn't mean it didn't come.

People swarmed round her like moths to a flame, and I watched them, fascinated. She laughed and they all smiled, watching her. Her arm was held possessively by Kaito, and he hardly looked away from her, completely smitten. And as she turned to glance at him, she looked at him like he was a god. Love.

Suddenly, I felt a wave of hatred towards this girl. She was so pretty and dainty, with her long hair shining in the light. It was so long, it almost trailed to the floor. She disgusted me.

I eyed Kaito briefly. He was handsome, older than me but well built. His blue hair was mussed carelessly, and he wore a fine coat of deep green. He was very becoming, but didn't hold a candle to Len.

As my thoughts turned to my brother, I immediately turned my eyes from the happy couple to the rest of the room, searching for him. He was standing by the wall, serving drinks. His eyes were watching me, so I turned my face away, lest we both be seen.

An escort came to me then, and I gave him my arm. Trumpets were sounded and I was announced, and began to gracefully descend down the staircase. Music played and everyone bowed and watched. I kept my head high and my hand on the rail. I put a pleasant, detached look on my face and gave faint smiles to the crowd.

My eyes swept over Kaito and his lady. She was looking at me sweetly and expectantly, but I saw Kaito's eyes on his companion. I bit my tongue, and this almost disrupted my act. Luckily I caught myself.

If he only had eyes for her, how was I to even make my case? Somehow they must be separated.

A/N

Hey guys! Sorry I didn't post last week, things were busy! This ones longer to make up for it.

So maybe you guys know where this is going, hm? Either way, things are definetly getting interesting... Thanks for the birthday wishes btw, I had a wonderful day and I appreciate it!

Anyways~

Cookiexo~

Thanks! Yes, It is definetly getting more intense! Thanks, I'm glad you like it!

Piko is so cute 3 Unfortunately, he will only be seen once more, briefly. :( He's too much Len's rival XD Just kidding~

Thank you TAT I try. You guys are great motivators!

Thank you! I had a great birthday! Oh, at least you don't have to go to school then! XD

Valkyrievampire888~

Thank you! Heh, you really think she will? XD Hope you enjoy!

Exorcist-Dono~

Thank you! Rin is slowly getting worse... I love the crazy ones too XD Although horror isn't exactly my style TAT I'm a big scaredy cat.

Oh I see. Yea, iPhone 5 was not worth it XD Apple is crazy~

Thanks!

Guest~

Thank you~ Of course they do XD