A/N: First of all, I want to say that this is really just a draft that will never be completed... Because from the very beginning this work was intended, only for ONE eyes, for one single person who did a lot for me... I I hope that one day she will find it and it will make her, at least a little bit happy... Because this work is a kind of continuation of the work of that person.
It took me almost a year to find the courage to post this. I'm very afraid that she will hate me even more for this, but... Even this pathetic draft means too much to me, although I managed to put into it only a small part of what I wanted... Nothing left of the rest... I really want this to at least make you smile, even though it will be a mockery. I don't mind.
If you want to know about the "canon" of this work, you can try asking Zabbie Q about it...
For readers. I thank you in advance for reading this and hope you enjoy it.
— I went! - Reika announced as she left the house. Today, as she had for six months, she went to hand over her new job and get paid. These six months were eventful: first, she was offered a job by the godson of the Emperor, after which she was invited by four girls and a fairy to become Precure. The girl perfectly understands how dangerous it is to be a traitor, being in close proximity to a person associated with the ruler. Any of her wrong steps and they can reveal her ... Reika did not even want to think about the consequences.
- Reika-chan!
The response pulled the girl from her thoughts. It was Nao, who was also on her way to work. In connection with the upcoming birthday of the Emperor, preparations were underway in the city for the festival, which will be in two days, and therefore the street is busier than ever: here is a cat in work clothes nailing the last nails to a simple shop, here are clowns dragging boxes from trucks, a stranger who looks like Owl carefully keeps a record of all things, making some notes in a notebook.
Slowly but surely, rows of jewelry and souvenir shops appear and, of course, no festival is complete without food-cords. Nao, with her grandfather's kakigori shop, is determined to take down her friend Akane with her okonomiyaki. These girls loved to compete with each other in friendly battles.
- Hey, Nao-chan. I see you are full of energy.
- Yes. I will do my best this year," the green-haired girl said, imitating the movement of an ice crushing handle. - I've had a lot of practice in this, so I won't give in to anyone.
- Good luck. Just don't overexert yourself. - Reika still remembered how, as a child, Nao decided to help her grandfather and worked so hard that she suffered from pain in her arm for several days afterwards.
- Everything will be all right, - the friend glanced at the long rectangular box in the hands of the blue-haired one. - Another job?
- Yes. Joker-san is always very pleased with my calligraphy. He says I'm getting better every time. — six months ago she was amazed that he offered her a job simply because he saw potential in her work, which didn't turn out very well and even now that calligraphy is hanging in his van.
- Reika… - Nao's eyes became serious and she approached her friend's ear. - Be careful with him. We already know what he's capable of. Who knows what goes through his head? - the green-haired girl still tenses just at the mention of him.
- Don't worry. I am very careful. Worst case scenario, I can escape in time," Reika assured her, though she doubted Joker would let her do so, which meant she would have to fight as a last resort.
- Out of the way, - the stranger shoved roughly, boxes in hand.
- Well, it's time for me to get to work, too. - See you later, - the girl said goodbye, heading to the back of the road.
- Have a good day.
Reika was glad that, compared to the first time, she could now walk freely to the familiar van.
Suddenly, a throwing knife flew right in front of her face.
Almost unhindered.
- Hey dude, what do you think of this trick? I think it will be spectacular, - said a tall clown with a thin body.
- Yes. Just imagine the poor fellow who will tremble with fear, not expecting this, - the short, fat clown echoed.
- I think you should work it out a bit, - the girl said suavely, restraining herself. If these clowns see her frightened, they will decide to work this trick on her right now. - I don't think the show will leave a good impression if the viewer dies of fear. - Hearing this, the clowns began to discuss it among themselves, arguing about something. Taking the opportunity to get out of their line of sight, the blue-haired girl continued on her way.
The only thing that hasn't changed is the relationship with Pickles. This big man continued to look suspiciously or even with contempt at the girl, but did not say a word to her, except for dry greetings.
Standing at the door of the van, the girl hesitated to knock.
"Calmly. There was no way he could recognize me, and if he did, he would most likely have done something by now."
Taking a deep breath in and out, she knocked.
- Great work, - commented the jester, looking at the calligraphy. - And in your style, - he added, pointing to the character "道". Reika began to often bring him works using this character, after he suggested that she find her own style, a distinctive feature, something that would immediately distinguish her work from others. And she did not find anything better than to use her philosophy of the path. This greatly amused and intrigued the Joker when she suggested it. I'm wondering what else you have to offer.
- I hope I don't disappoint you, - the girl breathed a sigh of relief when she realized that there was nothing to worry about and he did not intend to harm her somehow.
- I can't help but notice that your skill has grown. Soon you will be able to overtake your grandfather.
- Thank you," Reika thanked, bowing. - But I still have a long way to go.
- Speaking of a long journey, - Joker began, returning the calligraphy to the box. - There is work to be done in the castle and it will take three days. We have to get there tomorrow.
— That's how. Good luck with your work.
— No-no! retorted the jester, shaking his finger. - You will need to work.
- To me? Reika said in surprise. She never thought she would end up in the castle. However, in addition to surprise, it also causes fear. Maybe he realized that she is precure and now wants to drive her into a trap? - T-This is unexpected, I don't even know how to react. And what is this work?
- It's so trifle. You just need to accompany one person to the ball. I'm sure you'll be fine, - the man explained with a wave of his hand. This is your first business trip, so congratulations.
- But in the castle… In the domain of the Emperor…
- Nothing to worry about. Everything will be explained to you and since I am directly your employer, you can always ask me anything.
- But why-
- Look what time it is! - looking at the wall clock, said the guy. - We need to get ready for the performance, - putting his arm around the girl's shoulders, the Joker began to head towards the exit of the van. I will send you a letter tonight with all the details. You have to leave in the morning, so start packing as soon as you get home.
Without even blinking an eye, the girl realized that she was at the exit of the arena.
- What?! Are you going to work in the castle?! - the girls and the fairy yelled in unison, nearly deafening Reika. At that moment, she was glad that they had decided to set up their secret base in the mysterious library and not in some other place in their world, for their cry seemed to be heard several kilometers from the base.
- Yes. I will have to accompany some person to the ball.
- But why exactly do you have to do it? - Nao asked with concern.
I didn't have time to ask about it. I only know that I will be there for three days and I should be there tomorrow.
- I don't like this, - Akane said. - Suddenly it's some kind of trap.
- Do you think he could recognize Reika then? - Yayoi asked anxiously.
- It cannot be ruled out, - the red-haired woman confirmed. - What if it will be like in the manga about the octopus girl? When the villain decided during the holiday to expose the girl and deal with her in front of everyone.
- What if we disguise ourselves as servants and sneak into the ball? - Like in some fairy tales? Miyuki suggested.
"I don't think it would be that easy, - Akane protested. - Usually, a certain number of employees are already recruited for such events. And I'm willing to bet there's a rigorous selection process for the Emperor's job. Not to mention security. And neither I nor Nao will be able to take part in this.
- But we can't send Reika-chan alone, kuru! - Candy entered. - I don't want to lose Reika-chan, kuru! - said the fairy, clinging to the girl.
- Everything will be all right, - the blue-haired girl soothed, stroking her little friend's head. - After all, I'm not going to do anything risky. And the pact will always be with me, so that I can fend for myself.
- Are you sure you can handle it? - Nao asked with concern.
- If something happens, I won't fight and just run away. I should have enough strength for this, - the blue-haired girl assured. No matter what awaits her, she will be ready.
- Still, I even envy you, - Miyuki said. — To attend a ball right in the castle is so fabulous. Surely everyone will be there in beautiful dresses and costumes and the music will make everyone go to dance, - plunged into her dreams, the girl began ballroom dancing, capturing Yayoi, who was also inspired by fantasies.
As promised by Joker, in the evening she received a letter indicating the time and place from which she would go to the castle. So, getting up at sunrise, Reika went to the square, where a soldier dressed in an imperial uniform of white and black was waiting for her. It was a gray wolf that looked at the girl with undisguised contempt.
- It would be better for you not to cause problems and be obedient, otherwise you know how it happens in fairy tales, - the shaggy man warned, clicking his teeth right in front of the girl's nose.
- I understand you, - Reika said, hiding her fright, which the wolf obviously did not like and, clicking, carried them straight to the castle gates.
As expected, it was a gloomy place with a perpetually red sky, but the sight of the castle did not terrify. Apart from the large dark gates with sharp peaks and dark colors, the castle was no different from other majestic castles with gardens and a fountain on the facade. However, she couldn't say that she felt comfortable here for a number of reasons...
- You don't have time to admire the views, - the gray one hurried, going farther and farther, because of which the girl almost had to run after him.
- What does it mean? - as soon as the girl entered the door indicated to her, she was met by two pretty girls in the form of maids with a long skirt in dresses and aprons among the hangers with ball gowns, of which there were at least twenty. And the jester was sitting nearby in an armchair, waiting for the arrival of Reika.
- As I said earlier, you are needed here to accompany one person. And, since this is a ball, you should look the part, - the jester explained without getting up. - You can choose any of these dresses and, if necessary, it will be tailored to fit you for the ball.
- May I know who I should accompany? - the girl asked, not believing her eyes. She guessed that she could be offered to wear something appropriate for the event, but she could not suspect that there would be such a large selection, and even such beautiful dresses from obviously expensive materials that she could not even imagine. And, since she was given such an opportunity, it means that this is one of those close to the emperor, at least in title.
- It's just me, - Joker replied nonchalantly.
- I see... What? - realizing, the girl screamed. - Excuse me, - clearing her throat, the girl continued. - I just don't understand why I should accompany you? And why me?
- One person is bored at such events. Besides, I'd rather be in pleasant company than in the company of pompous turkeys who are constantly trying to suck up ... - Joker finished with a sigh. - The life of the godson of the Emperor is not easy, - he added dramatically.
- But is it possible for a human to be at this ball?
- Why not? Many of the guests are married to humans or have confidants among them.
- I thought that Pierrot-sama doesn't like people and doesn't allow them to such events.
- It's true that he doesn't like you. No, I'll be honest. He hates, - at these words the girl involuntarily tensed. - But he is too merciful not to let his close friends come without their loved ones or those they are comfortable with. After all, the ball is made for fun and pleasure.
- That's really very gracious of him, - the girl remarked. - So what is my job?
- Everything is extremely simple: you need to keep me company, if necessary, conduct a conversation with other participants in the ball and, of course, behave with dignity. These maids will help you prepare, - Joker informed, pointing to the girls. - Plus, I called a teacher for you to teach you dance and basic etiquette. You don't want to create problems, do you?
- No, Joker-sama.
- Good. He will arrive at lunchtime. And before that- - his speech was interrupted by a rumbling stomach.
- I'm sorry, - Reika said, blushing and pressing her hands to her stomach.
- Of course, first of all, breakfast, - the guy said with a laugh, which made the girl blush even more. Joker got up from his chair, heading for the exit. - Ladies, I leave her to you.
As promised, her dance and etiquette teacher arrived for lunchtime. By that time, Reika had managed to choose a dress for herself, asking to make a hidden pocket in it so that she could put her "powder box" with her.
Following the maid, the girl came to a spacious hall, hung with mirrors and bright lighting, where a man was already standing. He was a very long, thin man with a long nose, admiring himself in one of the mirrors while he waited for his apprentice. He wore an eighteenth-century green men's dress with purple details, lace cuffs and white gloves.
- Excuse me, - Reika said gently, drawing attention to herself.
- Are you the girl I should be teaching? I didn't think that I would ever teach the poor," the teacher said contemptuously. - I hope you are at least not hopeless.
- I would be glad to learn from you, - Reika said, bowing. She didn't expect it to be easy...
- No! No! Save your bows for people like you, - the man said sternly. - Here you need to curtsy, - the teacher said, demonstrating. - Repeat.
The girl repeated after the man... So it seemed to her.
- The right leg should be further than the left and the back should be even. One more time, - Reika repeated again. - The little fingers should be set aside.
After the fifth attempt, it seemed that the man would never be satisfied with the result and the girl already regretted agreeing to all this, but someone clearly had mercy on Reika and the teacher was pleased.
- Now return to the starting position and introduce yourself.
- I am Aoki Reika. I would be glad to be your student, - restraining her indignation, the girl introduced herself.
- Not bad, - the man commented dryly, looking at himself in the mirror again.
— May I know your name?
- Why would a human know my name? - the man said irritably. - Well, okay, - he added with a sigh, making a bow, muttering something under his breath. - My name is Razdvatris, and from this day on I am your teacher. And, since we have only two days, we will have to work at an accelerated pace and you better learn everything quickly if you do not want to embarrass me and yourself in front of His Majesty and guests.
Reika never thought that dancing could be so tiring. For a moment, she thought of Nao, for whom this would seem like a simple workout and still full of energy, but Reika is not like that, even a morning run with her brother did not give her enough stamina.
- That's all for today. You may be free, - said Razdvatris, putting his black flute into its case.
- Thank you for the lesson, - curtsying, the girl thanked. - Goodbye.
As soon as she left the hall, she ran into a jester who was standing near the door.
- Training is in full swing, as far as I can see. Are there any problems?
- No. Razdvatris-san explains well, - despite every minute narcissism, the man managed to notice her every mistake and, sparing no time and effort, explained to her as it should, although it was clear that he was ready to explode at any moment.
- I really hope so, - Joker muttered, looking at the door somehow ambiguously. - Anyway, what are you thinking of doing now?
- I would like to just sit somewhere and not go out until dinner, - the girl honestly said, already barely standing on her feet.
Reika was surprised that her wish was heeded and the pocket that was in the skirt is really invisible if you don't look closely, but you won't be able to easily and quickly get the pact because of the narrow hole, but it's better than not being able to fend for yourself at all in a critical situation.
As she walked through the corridors, Reika began to get worried. Frightening thoughts began to come to her mind: "What if Akane's words turn out to be true? Or will everyone discover my pact?" But she pushed those thoughts away. Excessive excitement will not help her in any way, but will arouse suspicion. She decided that when she entered the ballroom, the first thing she would do was look for ways to escape.
Involuntarily, the girl caught herself thinking: "I wonder if Cinderella had the same thoughts when she went to the ball?" and introduced Miyuki, who in her place would probably be on fire with happiness, realizing that she was in the role of her favorite character. This picture made Reika relax a little.
- It suits you very well, - the guy said, holding out his hand.
- Thank you, - Reika felt her cheeks flush with color.
- Human? - asked Pierrot, squinting. Reika needed a lot of stamina so as not to retreat from the emperor under the power of his gaze and lose face.
- Pierrot-sama, this is the granddaughter of the master who made you that scroll for your birthday, - Joker introduced.
- Oh, I remember. Your grandfather did a good job. Give him my thanks.
- This is a great honor for us, - said Reika, curtsying.
While the girl was considering the guests and the ways of retreat, the gentleman's plate was already empty. Reika couldn't believe that a skinny person like Joker could have such an appetite, as if he hadn't eaten for several days before.
- For a moment, I even thought that Quin was with us, - a man suddenly appeared next to them. It was Clown, thanks to whose order Joker met the girl. - By the way, how is he doing?
- As always, here and there, - putting another canape in his mouth. - I doubt he will honor us with his presence.
— So busy with your own business? the man asked with a chuckle.
- Yes. Says he's more interested in watching "tragedy of people" with Uncle Satterthwaite now than showing off in front of hypocritical idiots, - the guy said, glancing at a bunch of people gossiping about something. — I can understand him.
- Ah, this old man still won't give up his "hobby".
- Is something bothering you?
— Oh, no. Just got curious.
— And what exactly?
- It's probably rude of me to ask this, but... Who is Quin? - the girl seemed to know who it was, but she could not remember.
- Yes, just one clown. He is probably better known to you as Harlequin.
- Oh, your father, right? She received a nod in response. - I really know about him. And it always surprised me that he and Pierrot-sama are friends… It's just… Well… — for all the time she was studying at school or personally studying the "biography" of the emperor, she repeatedly saw plays where Harlequin took away Pierrot's wives and lovers, so it was hard to believe that men were friends, and even so friendly.
- It didn't affect their friendship. As well as many other things.
- For example?
- He was one of those who insisted on not exterminating people. He has always liked you.
- Was he against it? - before that, the girl, like other humans, knew that among the Badends there were those who did not support a complete genocide, but she did not know that among them was a friend of the Emperor and that he liked humans.
- This explains a lot.
— What are you talking about?
— You have humans under your command. You said that you hired them because we can create something new, but, to be honest, I always had doubts about this. Perhaps it was your father who influenced you so much.
- Maybe.
While Reika was waiting, she involuntarily overheard the conversation of a group of people.
-... It's just amazing that this is possible.
- Yes. It is said that this Harlequin did not come to the ball because he was ashamed to look into the eyes of the Emperor.
- Or something happened again, - one of the gossips giggled. - And he's just afraid of His Highness's wrath.
- And yet to send a son instead of himself. Isn't that too cruel?
- No. This youngster is in good standing, - another objected. - Maybe he wants to appease Pierrot-sama with it? It looks like him.
— Really? I would say that he is more likely to use it as a distraction. Well, you know, to carry on quietly with your business.
- Who knows, maybe he will continue his work. As the saying goes, the apple does not fall far from the tree.
— What an interesting conversation. Can you share it with me? - Hearing a familiar voice, all the gossips immediately fell silent and turned to the jester, who, with a smile on his face and sparks in his eyes, was waiting for further actions.
- Ah, Joker-sama, - everyone immediately fell into a low curtsey and bow. -H-how much have you heard?
- Enough to lock you all in a dungeon.