The little girl walked into the mist with little fear or hesitation. She
was here for one reason and that was her mission. She looked through the
fog and noticed a taller figure approaching her. The older figure seemed
to glide not walk towards the girl and it was definitely female. She held
a long staff in her hands as she stopped in front of the girl. Only the
tip and the woman's dark heeled boots could be seen. She spoke softly and
her voice was like the smoke that surrounded them.
"Are you ready?" The girl nodded at the question simply even though her mission was going to be long a difficult. "Very well, you will find the next part to your mission once you get there. I will be able to be summoned by touching your key. Speaking of which, here's your key. Do not let anything happen to this, guard it with your life and let no one touch it. Do you understand?"
Once again the girl nodded but with a small-determined voice she clearly said, "I understand and I'm ready." She clutched the key close to her body before waving to the female who smiled down upon her.
The girl raised the key above her and called out loudly, "Guardian of Time, let the Door of Time split the heavens and open to me. I call you by your true name. The all knowing God of Time, the Father of the Guardian, Chronos! Lead me! Protect me! Send me the path of light!" A brilliant light surrounded the girl and in an instant where she once stood, she was gone.
The female looked up to the sky above and whispered, "Protect her father. Guide her with your light!" She touched the tip of her staff to the ground and in an instant she was gone and the mist had disappeared leaving the dark starry night.
The girl opened her eyes and looked at her surroundings. She was outside a brick building with a sign that read, "Municipal Orphanage." She knocked on the door and tucked the key into her pocket. A tiny purple haired girl opened the door slowly.
"Can I help you?"
"Yes, my name's," she paused, "Rini. I'm looking for the director of this facility."
"Excuse me Hotaru. Who is it anyway? Come on all of you move! I'm the director of this establishment, what do you want?" A tall red haired woman asked politely with her accent.
"Molly?"
"How do you know my name kid?" she asked kneeling down to the girl.
"Um, my parents, well they said they knew you. But, they're gone! And I have no where else to go! Can I stay here? Please?" she whined and pouted at the unsuspecting director.
"Oh you poor thing, of course you can stay here honey! You said your name was Rini? You sure look a lot like my friend Serena Rini. Come on in, you must be cold and hungry." Rini followed the woman inside and wiped away the sweat from her forehead and smiled at the people around her. They smiled back before going off into the different rooms of the small house.
"Molly! I'm here! Molly?" A familiar voice called out as She entered the building. She removed her jacket and hat revealing blonde hair done up in an elegant bun. She was very well dressed and looked out of place in the crumbling hallway. Rini gasped, it was ayounger version of her mother. She felt a weight in her pocket and reached in and pulled out a note. It read, "Rini, be sure you are the one she takes! Pu." The girl smiled at the blonde.
"Hi their cutie, what's your name?"
"Rini. Who are you?"
"I'm Serena Tsukino. I don't think I've ever seen you here before. How come?"
"I just got here a few minutes ago."
"It will be okay dear. Don't worry. Do you know where Molly is?"
"Sere! You came! Great now how are we going to choose who?"
"Well, how about this little girl? She's cute! Besides that way she'll have some fun before permanently living here."
"Okay, Rini do you want to go with Miss Tsukino?"
"Where are we going?" she asked suspiciously hoping to find out more about her mission.
"We if you say yes, we are going to my boss' house to stay there for two weeks as his personal guest. What do you say about that?"
"Wow! Sure it sounds like so much fun!" She nodded her head excitedly. She would finally meet her mom's slave driver she was always talking about when she talked about the days when she used to work.
"See you Molly! I'll call you tonight if I get home in time, you know Mr. Master and his hours. Bye Mol!" They walked out of the building and Rini looked at the fancy car infront of the house.
"Is that your car?"
"Unfortunately not, it's Mr. Shields. Ready to go?" Rini nodded and Serena drove off into the city in the beautiful silver car. "My car is a junkie. It's the ugliest thing you'll ever see. I wish this one was mine but it will never happen. So tell me about yourself Rini."
"Well, I was sent to the orphanage because my parents aren't around anymore. I'm nine hu, nine years old and this is my favorites toy, Luna P Ball." She held up the purple ball that was a giant cat's head with a moon on the forehead.
"That's really neat because my cat's name is Luna and she has a bald spot there too!"
"Oh really?" Rini asked excited. If Luna was around, she could get her to help, hopefully, Artemis would if she could find Mina.
"Uh huh. Look, see that building right there, that's Mr. Shield's company headquarters. I used to work there, I sill do from time to time but now I mostly work at his home as her overall secretary."
"Neat. So you know him pretty well then?" Serena nodded and Rini continued. "What's his name again? I think my father might have known him if he is who I think he is."
"Well, your father must have been a business man then. My bosses name is Mr. Darien Shields or Dr. Shields. He will probably tell you what to call him." Serena smiled as the car left the city and entered a wealthy neighborhood. Were here Rini!"
"Is this the train station? It's huge!" Rini gasped, this building was the building in all the pictures that her Mom had said she lived in.
"No Rini, this is his house! Come on there are some people I want you to meet." She parked the car, grabbed her briefcase and gave the keys to the chauffeur. She grabbed Rini's hand and walked into the building.
"Welcome back Miss Tsukino. Who is this cutie?"
"Drew, has he returned from his trip?" The man dressed in a servant's attire shook his head no. "Well call the staff together I have some announcements to make." Rini looked as Andrew, her father's best friend walked to a giant computer and pressed a button. A large buzz was heard and moments later several familiar faces quickly entered the room.
"Everyone, I'd like you to meet our newest arrival Rini. She will be staying with us for the next two weeks, for Christmas!"
"Miss what are we to do with a small child?"
"Ami, you know this is a public relations type thing. We can all serve to loosen up a bit, don't you agree Rei?" she chuckled at Rei's frown.
Rini looked at all the familiar faces that lived in the palace with her. All of her "relatives" were here. Aunts Mina, Lita, Rei, and Ami. Her best friend Trista, aka Pu. When Rini glanced at Pu, she winked and Rini smiled back at her. Her mother's council and protectors were all standing in the grand hallway, including Michelle and Amara, the foreign correspondents. In the corner she saw two cats sitting peacefully, Luna and Artemis.
"Well now you all know Rini, I think she should know some of you. We should also figure out who will do what to suit her accomadations. So let's see ah I know! Minalle will pick out all your clothes."
"Blue is her color, no pink I think!" Mina said.
"Your bath is drawn by Amiela Reer."
"Soap! No bubbles I think!" Ami concluded and whisked off.
"Reianne comes in to make your bed!"
"The silk sheets, no satin I think!" She ran up the stairs towards a linen closet.
"The swimming pool is to the left!"
"Inside the house?" Rini asked expectantly. Serena nodded before motioning to Michelle. Michelle nodded and walked off to find a suit and towels.
"The tennis courts are in the rear."
"I've never picked up a racket!" Rini exclaimed.
Serena gasped and gestured to Amara. "She's your instructor, a lesson at noon." Amara walked towards the rear of the huge house. "Oh and Amara! Get her a skort too please!" Rini giggled at how all her relatives were following Serena's command. She turned to Rini and bent down. Rini smiled at her Serena's exuberance.
"When you wake ring for Ken, Ken will bring your tray. And when you're through, Litanya comes to take it away! No need to pick up any toys!"
"That's okay! I haven't got mine with me anyway!" Rini smiled at the happy people around her.
Everyone gathered in around and Rini and two males hoisted her into the air and all sorts of measurements were taken as she was rotated in air. All of the servants spoke to Rini, "We have but one request, please put us to the test."
Rini after being set down on the ground giggled happily and said "I think I'm gonna like it here."
Ladies with fabrics surrounded her and held up her hair. Ami approached her and held out a basket of soaps and shampoos for her to choose one she liked. Rini smiled and chose her mothers favorite choice-Strawberries and Creme shampoo. With a soft peach scented bodywash. Ami winked and whispered into Rini's ear, "A wise choice!"
Rei walked in with a stack of sheets and placed them in front of Rini. Rini choose a pair of light pink sheets. Rei passed the chosen sheets to Chad and then snapped her fingers and servants with pillows walked in and Rini tried each one and choose her favorite one. Rei tossed the pair of pillows to Chad and smiled.
Mina walked in with a brush and some scissors. Around her wrist was a seamstress's band of needles and pins. Mina began to brush out Rini's pink tresses and pull them back into pigtails with ribbons. She then showed Rini a few samples of fabric and Rini picked a pretty pink simple print. Mina winked at Rini and hurried off to make a dress.
Lita waltzed up to Rini with a pen and paper in hand. She fixed her apron once and bent down to Rini's level. "Hey there! I'm Lita and I'll be fixing all your meals so tell me all your favorite dishes! Rini began to list some of her favorite foods and Lita jotted them down and motioned to Ken who was standing behind her. "Ken can you place and order for some of these at the store later?" Ken nodded and Lita walked off to plan the evening's menu.
Serena lead Rini up the grand staircase and turned to the right. She pushed open the doors which several maids were busy preparing a bed and filling the closet with clothes and toys. Rini gasped at the beautiful room before and Trista walked up to her.
"Miss I will be your attendant if you need anything. My name is Trista Meiou and my room is right down the hall. If you need company, help finding something, getting dressed, or you want me to clean your room just ring a bell." Trista winked and left the room for Rini to explore. She ran and leapt onto the bed and sank deep into the fluffy comforter. Serena giggled at the young girl's antics before sitting beside her on the bed.
"I hope you understand, that your wish is our command and I really hope that you're going to like it here. I have to go prepare for Mr. Shields return, my office is down the on the other side of the building but if you need anything don't be afraid to ask anyone. Were so happy to have someone to liven up the place." Serena studied Rini's peaceful form that was asleep on the bed. "You remind me so much of myself sometimes." Serena brushed a stray hair out of Rini's face and kissed her lightly on the forehead before removing the sleeping girl's shoes and tucking her into the bed. She walked to the nightlight and turned it on then quietly left the room.
"I've been away six weeks! Where the hell is everyone? Serena? In my office now!" a deep male tenor voice rang out through out the mansion.
"Coming Mr. Shields!" Serena passed by a mirror and looked at her reflection, she looked tired and worn out. Her suit was a little wrinkled in some areas and her hair a little out of place from the bun. She tugged her skirt around her waist and rubbed her blue eyes clear. Then she hurried down the staircase to meet her boss. "Mr. Shields welcome home. How was your flight?"
"It was alright Serena but I'd like to skip dinner and start typing up some notes for the corporate officials to read. Are you ready for some dictation?"
Serena stifled a yawn and smiled brightly at him before replying, "Of course Mr. Shields let me run and grab my notepad."
"Serena? Who is that?" the tall black haired man pointed to Rini who was cowering behind the edge of the wall and the staircase.
"Oh! Rini! Come on down! This is Mr. Shields, Mr. Shields, Rini. Rini is the orphan you invited to stay with us for the Christmas holidays." Serena brought Rini up to Mr. Shields and Rini smiled widely. She recognized her father anywhere, except her dad's name wasn't Mr. Shields and his hair wasn't as dark.
"Orphans aren't girls Serena. They're boys! I should know. Why do we have a girl in this house?"
"Well sir you didn't specify a gender so I chose a girl. Please sir let her stay here! I promise you that she won't bother you in anyway at all." Serena was pleading to the tall raven haired man before her dressed in a black suit and a trench coat in his hand. A dark blue scarf was still wrapped around his neck.
While Serena was pleading to the man Rini waited impatiently and then she felt a heavy weight in her pocket. She pulled out a note. "Rini introduce yourself to him as a proper lady and charm him. Pu."
"It's okay Mr. Shields. I understand that you don't really like me and all so I thank everyone for being so nice to me and giving me the chance to have a great time here in your house. I'll go pack my things." Rini turned to leave and Serena's heart broke. Her eyes filled with sorrow at the young girls departure.
Darien noticed the change in Serena's demeanor and thought quickly. "Little girl you can stay in my home if you don't interfere with the work around here. Alright?"
Serena jumped for joy and ran up to Mr. Shields and hugged him tightly. Her tiny form was pressed against his muscular form. He wrapped his arms around her waist as her arms settled around his neck. "Thank you so much sir! You don't know what this means to me! Oh, I'm sorry." She backed away from the embrace and both noticed the immediate loss in warmth from the contact. Serena blushed lightly under his gaze and Rini watched in awe.
"Well little girl wha..."
"My name is Rini Mr. Shields. But my parents used to call me Bunny sometimes." she walked closer to him and grabbed his hand and shook it lightly. "By the way, thanks for letting me stay and I promise I won't interfere at all!"
Darien smiled at the little girl and bent down to her level. "Well Rini, since were friends you can call me Darien, it's easier than Mr. Shields I can assure you. Now how about some dinner?" Serena smiled inwardly, she knew he would be a great father if he ever found the right woman, which she couldn't help but hope was her. Only wishful thinking though she thought. Suddenly she felt warmth in her hand and Rini was holding her hand. Rini pulled Serena along towards the direction of the dining room. Darien watched as Serena was pulled along when he felt a small tug and looked down to see Rini trying to pull him along too. He laughed and followed the two girls down the hall.
"Rini, where are we going?" Serena asked her.
"Dinner! Cause I'm starved! You are too right?" Rini looked at Serena. Serena smiled and looked to Mr. Shields, he nodded and smiled before Serena nodded to Rini. "You are too right Darien?" Darien smiled and followed Rini towards the general direction of the dining room.
"Hey Dare, you trying to start a new trend?" A male voice called out.
"Huh?" he looked around himself before trying to remove his blue scarf.
"Here let me help." Serena began to untangle the scarf from his shirt, tie and jacket. Her hands went about his neck and worked their magic while occasionally brushing his deep hair. Rini smiled and casually bumped into Serena sending her tripping into Darien's form. His hands immediately went to her waist to steady her. They were pressed up against each other tightly, nose to nose and Rini giggled.
Andrew who had been observing the scene and smiled when he saw Rini's deliberate actions to make Serena trip into Darien's embrace. He knew Rini knew that something was up between the two of them. So Andrew would have to inform the rest of the mansion staff that operation get-together was still on and they would have a new accomplice. He opened the doors to the dining room and grabbed the scarf from Serena's hands, which were still around Darien's neck.
"You two hungry for something other than dinner?" Andrew chided the embracing couple. They both blushed and released each other as they walked into the grand dining hall. Rini had already taken a seat near the head of the table. She motioned for both of the still blushing adults to join her. Darien sat down at the head of the table, next to Rini's right. Serena backed away from the table when Darien looked up.
"Serena? Won't you join us for dinner?"
"Please!" Rini added and pointed to the seat open on Darien's other side.
"Well, it's not exactly proper for a servant to sit at the grand table with her boss." She stuttered and blushed under Darien's intense gaze.
"Serena! You of all people should know that I am no better than you are! I prefer to treat everyone the same so please sit down and have some dinner. Besides, you are no regular servant, you're a friend of mine and a welcome guest in my home. Now please, join Rini and I for some dinner."
Serena shrugged her shoulders and walked towards the unoccupied seat on Darien's right. She was about to pull out the chair when Darien stood up and pulled it out for her. "Here you go Miss.," he said bowing at the waist to her. She giggled and took a seat when he pushed her in. He then took his own seat and smiled. "Well I wonder what Lita has prepared for us tonight?"
"Well, I decided that since we have a guest in our home, we should cook some traditional meals. But then I realized hate traditional so I made a few dishes, spaghetti, roast beef, chicken, salad, potatoes of different sorts, um, peas and green beans. There is a wide selection and lots to go around so eat up!" Lita smiled before leaving the room with her eyes twinkling. She winked to Andrew and he smiled before placing plates in front of each of the three.
"You know with the three of you here, it makes you all look like a family, its a good change, cute too." Rini looked up in amazement after Andrew's remarks. She couldn't help but think what if he knew, when she looked at him she saw him wink at her and she smiled back.
"Um, Serena?" she asked hesitantly.
"Yes Rini? What is it?"
"Well, can we do something?"
"What do you mean, so something?"
"You know go out, have fun, relax, everyone here looks like they could use a break, especially you Darien, so why don't the three of us play or something?" she asked.
"Well, um, you see Rini, I can't make that decision. It sure would be fun and all but I'm sure that Mr. Shields wants me to do some work tonight, such as dictation. Maybe another time Rini, I'm sorry." Serena rambled as she looked down at her empty plate.
"Hmm, a break, I haven't had one of those in a long time. You might be right Rini, a break is in order for everyone. Why don't you and I go into town, I'll dismiss the staff, we can catch a movie or something. Sound all right to you?" Darien asked her while raising his brow.
"Sure I guess, sounds fun." Rini said wistfully.
"What's wrong Rini? You don't want to do that?"
"No I do, it's just, aw gee."
"Rini, what is it?" Serena asked concerned.
"Well, I wanted you to come too Serena." Rini sniffed as if she was going to cry.
"Well Rini, why don't you ask her if she'd like to accompany us tonight, that is if she isn't already busy. I think that she deserves a break if I get one, heck she needs one more than I do. So Rini if you'd like her to come, ask her." Darien replied blushing. Andrew smiled, Rini was doing fine.
"Serena! Will you come with us tonight?" Rini turned to her and begged.
"Uh, Rini, I'm kind of tired as it is, and I don't want to intrude on your fun, so I guess I have to decline." she smiled sadly.
"Well then Serena, if you decline, as your boss, I'm ordering you to come with Rini and I tonight too town and relax." he smiled at her and then continued, "Besides, I'd like you to come too." Serena looked up and saw that Darien was blushing heavily as he tried to avoid her eyes. She smiled at him and blushed a little too.
"Well, how can I refuse the invitation then?" she stood up from her place. "I'll be right back, I just want to tidy up a bit before going out." Serena quickly left the room and Andrew smirked at his friend's actions.
"Rini, can you do me a favor tonight?"
"Sure, what kind of favor Darien?"
"Uh, you're going to have to be secretive about this, for it's a top secret mission, okay." He paused and Rini nodded her head energetically to show she understood. "Find out if Serena, uh, seeing anyone. Okay? Just make sure she doesn't know that I asked you to ask, got that?" she nodded again and he smiled.
"Rini?"
"Yes Mr. Andrew?"
"I'd like to have you come here for a few minutes, you know help me out a little." he hinted and she quickly left the table. "I'll bring her right back Dare. By the way, what car do you want to take tonight?"
"Uh, exercise is good, we'll walk and don't worry, I want to go change quickly, so don't hurry with Rini." he left the table and walked out of the room. As he rounded the corner he crashed into Minalle. "Oh, I'm terribly sorry Mina."
"It's quite alright, and I have something for you."
"You do?" he asked questioningly.
"Uh huh, look she's single."
"Who?"
"Well duh, Rena! And she loves roses, red roses to be exact, catch my drift?"
"Ah," he glanced around himself, then quickly smiled at her, "Thanks." She smiled and boith continued in opposite directions.
"Rini, hint to Serena about Darien being single too, and that the two of you would make a cute couple if she's single. Got it?"
"Sure Andrew, what you want me to do is make it kind of hinty that you have a chance with him, so take it." she smiled at his amazed reaction.
"Your nine?" she nodded. "Yeah you got it. Good luck Agent Rini." he saluted her and she saluted him before running up to her room.
Half an hour later Darien was wearing a black trench coat with his dark blue scarf. Rini was wearing a light pink coat with white mittens and a white hat to match. They were standing at the foot of the stairs waiting for the final member to come down the stairs. Moments later a streak of blue came sliding down the marble floor before rushing down the stairs. She held an overcoat, mittens and a beret in her hands. She stopped in front of the duo and smiled.
"I couldn't find my things, sorry it took me so long." She was trying to put her jacket on when she felt two hands grip her coat.
"Here, looked like you could use some help." He held the jacket up as she slid her arms into the sleeves. She buttoned herself up and pulled on her light blue gloves. She looked for her beret and when she saw where it was, she burst out laughing. It was on top of Darien's hair tilted to the side and he was striking a fashion pose. Both she and Rini were giggling at his antics. Serena swiped the beret off his head and placed it on her own, snuggly over her ears.
"Ready?" she asked them both when she noticed her boss's lack of mittens and headgear. "Now I know you're my boss and all, but you really don't want to get sick do you?"
"I'll be fine, besides, I have a cute girl to keep me warm if I need it." he smiled and opened the door. "I also have pockets for my hands, don't worry, if I get sick, I'll blame myself." He closed the door and the trio walked down the path to the road.
"Are you ready?" The girl nodded at the question simply even though her mission was going to be long a difficult. "Very well, you will find the next part to your mission once you get there. I will be able to be summoned by touching your key. Speaking of which, here's your key. Do not let anything happen to this, guard it with your life and let no one touch it. Do you understand?"
Once again the girl nodded but with a small-determined voice she clearly said, "I understand and I'm ready." She clutched the key close to her body before waving to the female who smiled down upon her.
The girl raised the key above her and called out loudly, "Guardian of Time, let the Door of Time split the heavens and open to me. I call you by your true name. The all knowing God of Time, the Father of the Guardian, Chronos! Lead me! Protect me! Send me the path of light!" A brilliant light surrounded the girl and in an instant where she once stood, she was gone.
The female looked up to the sky above and whispered, "Protect her father. Guide her with your light!" She touched the tip of her staff to the ground and in an instant she was gone and the mist had disappeared leaving the dark starry night.
The girl opened her eyes and looked at her surroundings. She was outside a brick building with a sign that read, "Municipal Orphanage." She knocked on the door and tucked the key into her pocket. A tiny purple haired girl opened the door slowly.
"Can I help you?"
"Yes, my name's," she paused, "Rini. I'm looking for the director of this facility."
"Excuse me Hotaru. Who is it anyway? Come on all of you move! I'm the director of this establishment, what do you want?" A tall red haired woman asked politely with her accent.
"Molly?"
"How do you know my name kid?" she asked kneeling down to the girl.
"Um, my parents, well they said they knew you. But, they're gone! And I have no where else to go! Can I stay here? Please?" she whined and pouted at the unsuspecting director.
"Oh you poor thing, of course you can stay here honey! You said your name was Rini? You sure look a lot like my friend Serena Rini. Come on in, you must be cold and hungry." Rini followed the woman inside and wiped away the sweat from her forehead and smiled at the people around her. They smiled back before going off into the different rooms of the small house.
"Molly! I'm here! Molly?" A familiar voice called out as She entered the building. She removed her jacket and hat revealing blonde hair done up in an elegant bun. She was very well dressed and looked out of place in the crumbling hallway. Rini gasped, it was ayounger version of her mother. She felt a weight in her pocket and reached in and pulled out a note. It read, "Rini, be sure you are the one she takes! Pu." The girl smiled at the blonde.
"Hi their cutie, what's your name?"
"Rini. Who are you?"
"I'm Serena Tsukino. I don't think I've ever seen you here before. How come?"
"I just got here a few minutes ago."
"It will be okay dear. Don't worry. Do you know where Molly is?"
"Sere! You came! Great now how are we going to choose who?"
"Well, how about this little girl? She's cute! Besides that way she'll have some fun before permanently living here."
"Okay, Rini do you want to go with Miss Tsukino?"
"Where are we going?" she asked suspiciously hoping to find out more about her mission.
"We if you say yes, we are going to my boss' house to stay there for two weeks as his personal guest. What do you say about that?"
"Wow! Sure it sounds like so much fun!" She nodded her head excitedly. She would finally meet her mom's slave driver she was always talking about when she talked about the days when she used to work.
"See you Molly! I'll call you tonight if I get home in time, you know Mr. Master and his hours. Bye Mol!" They walked out of the building and Rini looked at the fancy car infront of the house.
"Is that your car?"
"Unfortunately not, it's Mr. Shields. Ready to go?" Rini nodded and Serena drove off into the city in the beautiful silver car. "My car is a junkie. It's the ugliest thing you'll ever see. I wish this one was mine but it will never happen. So tell me about yourself Rini."
"Well, I was sent to the orphanage because my parents aren't around anymore. I'm nine hu, nine years old and this is my favorites toy, Luna P Ball." She held up the purple ball that was a giant cat's head with a moon on the forehead.
"That's really neat because my cat's name is Luna and she has a bald spot there too!"
"Oh really?" Rini asked excited. If Luna was around, she could get her to help, hopefully, Artemis would if she could find Mina.
"Uh huh. Look, see that building right there, that's Mr. Shield's company headquarters. I used to work there, I sill do from time to time but now I mostly work at his home as her overall secretary."
"Neat. So you know him pretty well then?" Serena nodded and Rini continued. "What's his name again? I think my father might have known him if he is who I think he is."
"Well, your father must have been a business man then. My bosses name is Mr. Darien Shields or Dr. Shields. He will probably tell you what to call him." Serena smiled as the car left the city and entered a wealthy neighborhood. Were here Rini!"
"Is this the train station? It's huge!" Rini gasped, this building was the building in all the pictures that her Mom had said she lived in.
"No Rini, this is his house! Come on there are some people I want you to meet." She parked the car, grabbed her briefcase and gave the keys to the chauffeur. She grabbed Rini's hand and walked into the building.
"Welcome back Miss Tsukino. Who is this cutie?"
"Drew, has he returned from his trip?" The man dressed in a servant's attire shook his head no. "Well call the staff together I have some announcements to make." Rini looked as Andrew, her father's best friend walked to a giant computer and pressed a button. A large buzz was heard and moments later several familiar faces quickly entered the room.
"Everyone, I'd like you to meet our newest arrival Rini. She will be staying with us for the next two weeks, for Christmas!"
"Miss what are we to do with a small child?"
"Ami, you know this is a public relations type thing. We can all serve to loosen up a bit, don't you agree Rei?" she chuckled at Rei's frown.
Rini looked at all the familiar faces that lived in the palace with her. All of her "relatives" were here. Aunts Mina, Lita, Rei, and Ami. Her best friend Trista, aka Pu. When Rini glanced at Pu, she winked and Rini smiled back at her. Her mother's council and protectors were all standing in the grand hallway, including Michelle and Amara, the foreign correspondents. In the corner she saw two cats sitting peacefully, Luna and Artemis.
"Well now you all know Rini, I think she should know some of you. We should also figure out who will do what to suit her accomadations. So let's see ah I know! Minalle will pick out all your clothes."
"Blue is her color, no pink I think!" Mina said.
"Your bath is drawn by Amiela Reer."
"Soap! No bubbles I think!" Ami concluded and whisked off.
"Reianne comes in to make your bed!"
"The silk sheets, no satin I think!" She ran up the stairs towards a linen closet.
"The swimming pool is to the left!"
"Inside the house?" Rini asked expectantly. Serena nodded before motioning to Michelle. Michelle nodded and walked off to find a suit and towels.
"The tennis courts are in the rear."
"I've never picked up a racket!" Rini exclaimed.
Serena gasped and gestured to Amara. "She's your instructor, a lesson at noon." Amara walked towards the rear of the huge house. "Oh and Amara! Get her a skort too please!" Rini giggled at how all her relatives were following Serena's command. She turned to Rini and bent down. Rini smiled at her Serena's exuberance.
"When you wake ring for Ken, Ken will bring your tray. And when you're through, Litanya comes to take it away! No need to pick up any toys!"
"That's okay! I haven't got mine with me anyway!" Rini smiled at the happy people around her.
Everyone gathered in around and Rini and two males hoisted her into the air and all sorts of measurements were taken as she was rotated in air. All of the servants spoke to Rini, "We have but one request, please put us to the test."
Rini after being set down on the ground giggled happily and said "I think I'm gonna like it here."
Ladies with fabrics surrounded her and held up her hair. Ami approached her and held out a basket of soaps and shampoos for her to choose one she liked. Rini smiled and chose her mothers favorite choice-Strawberries and Creme shampoo. With a soft peach scented bodywash. Ami winked and whispered into Rini's ear, "A wise choice!"
Rei walked in with a stack of sheets and placed them in front of Rini. Rini choose a pair of light pink sheets. Rei passed the chosen sheets to Chad and then snapped her fingers and servants with pillows walked in and Rini tried each one and choose her favorite one. Rei tossed the pair of pillows to Chad and smiled.
Mina walked in with a brush and some scissors. Around her wrist was a seamstress's band of needles and pins. Mina began to brush out Rini's pink tresses and pull them back into pigtails with ribbons. She then showed Rini a few samples of fabric and Rini picked a pretty pink simple print. Mina winked at Rini and hurried off to make a dress.
Lita waltzed up to Rini with a pen and paper in hand. She fixed her apron once and bent down to Rini's level. "Hey there! I'm Lita and I'll be fixing all your meals so tell me all your favorite dishes! Rini began to list some of her favorite foods and Lita jotted them down and motioned to Ken who was standing behind her. "Ken can you place and order for some of these at the store later?" Ken nodded and Lita walked off to plan the evening's menu.
Serena lead Rini up the grand staircase and turned to the right. She pushed open the doors which several maids were busy preparing a bed and filling the closet with clothes and toys. Rini gasped at the beautiful room before and Trista walked up to her.
"Miss I will be your attendant if you need anything. My name is Trista Meiou and my room is right down the hall. If you need company, help finding something, getting dressed, or you want me to clean your room just ring a bell." Trista winked and left the room for Rini to explore. She ran and leapt onto the bed and sank deep into the fluffy comforter. Serena giggled at the young girl's antics before sitting beside her on the bed.
"I hope you understand, that your wish is our command and I really hope that you're going to like it here. I have to go prepare for Mr. Shields return, my office is down the on the other side of the building but if you need anything don't be afraid to ask anyone. Were so happy to have someone to liven up the place." Serena studied Rini's peaceful form that was asleep on the bed. "You remind me so much of myself sometimes." Serena brushed a stray hair out of Rini's face and kissed her lightly on the forehead before removing the sleeping girl's shoes and tucking her into the bed. She walked to the nightlight and turned it on then quietly left the room.
"I've been away six weeks! Where the hell is everyone? Serena? In my office now!" a deep male tenor voice rang out through out the mansion.
"Coming Mr. Shields!" Serena passed by a mirror and looked at her reflection, she looked tired and worn out. Her suit was a little wrinkled in some areas and her hair a little out of place from the bun. She tugged her skirt around her waist and rubbed her blue eyes clear. Then she hurried down the staircase to meet her boss. "Mr. Shields welcome home. How was your flight?"
"It was alright Serena but I'd like to skip dinner and start typing up some notes for the corporate officials to read. Are you ready for some dictation?"
Serena stifled a yawn and smiled brightly at him before replying, "Of course Mr. Shields let me run and grab my notepad."
"Serena? Who is that?" the tall black haired man pointed to Rini who was cowering behind the edge of the wall and the staircase.
"Oh! Rini! Come on down! This is Mr. Shields, Mr. Shields, Rini. Rini is the orphan you invited to stay with us for the Christmas holidays." Serena brought Rini up to Mr. Shields and Rini smiled widely. She recognized her father anywhere, except her dad's name wasn't Mr. Shields and his hair wasn't as dark.
"Orphans aren't girls Serena. They're boys! I should know. Why do we have a girl in this house?"
"Well sir you didn't specify a gender so I chose a girl. Please sir let her stay here! I promise you that she won't bother you in anyway at all." Serena was pleading to the tall raven haired man before her dressed in a black suit and a trench coat in his hand. A dark blue scarf was still wrapped around his neck.
While Serena was pleading to the man Rini waited impatiently and then she felt a heavy weight in her pocket. She pulled out a note. "Rini introduce yourself to him as a proper lady and charm him. Pu."
"It's okay Mr. Shields. I understand that you don't really like me and all so I thank everyone for being so nice to me and giving me the chance to have a great time here in your house. I'll go pack my things." Rini turned to leave and Serena's heart broke. Her eyes filled with sorrow at the young girls departure.
Darien noticed the change in Serena's demeanor and thought quickly. "Little girl you can stay in my home if you don't interfere with the work around here. Alright?"
Serena jumped for joy and ran up to Mr. Shields and hugged him tightly. Her tiny form was pressed against his muscular form. He wrapped his arms around her waist as her arms settled around his neck. "Thank you so much sir! You don't know what this means to me! Oh, I'm sorry." She backed away from the embrace and both noticed the immediate loss in warmth from the contact. Serena blushed lightly under his gaze and Rini watched in awe.
"Well little girl wha..."
"My name is Rini Mr. Shields. But my parents used to call me Bunny sometimes." she walked closer to him and grabbed his hand and shook it lightly. "By the way, thanks for letting me stay and I promise I won't interfere at all!"
Darien smiled at the little girl and bent down to her level. "Well Rini, since were friends you can call me Darien, it's easier than Mr. Shields I can assure you. Now how about some dinner?" Serena smiled inwardly, she knew he would be a great father if he ever found the right woman, which she couldn't help but hope was her. Only wishful thinking though she thought. Suddenly she felt warmth in her hand and Rini was holding her hand. Rini pulled Serena along towards the direction of the dining room. Darien watched as Serena was pulled along when he felt a small tug and looked down to see Rini trying to pull him along too. He laughed and followed the two girls down the hall.
"Rini, where are we going?" Serena asked her.
"Dinner! Cause I'm starved! You are too right?" Rini looked at Serena. Serena smiled and looked to Mr. Shields, he nodded and smiled before Serena nodded to Rini. "You are too right Darien?" Darien smiled and followed Rini towards the general direction of the dining room.
"Hey Dare, you trying to start a new trend?" A male voice called out.
"Huh?" he looked around himself before trying to remove his blue scarf.
"Here let me help." Serena began to untangle the scarf from his shirt, tie and jacket. Her hands went about his neck and worked their magic while occasionally brushing his deep hair. Rini smiled and casually bumped into Serena sending her tripping into Darien's form. His hands immediately went to her waist to steady her. They were pressed up against each other tightly, nose to nose and Rini giggled.
Andrew who had been observing the scene and smiled when he saw Rini's deliberate actions to make Serena trip into Darien's embrace. He knew Rini knew that something was up between the two of them. So Andrew would have to inform the rest of the mansion staff that operation get-together was still on and they would have a new accomplice. He opened the doors to the dining room and grabbed the scarf from Serena's hands, which were still around Darien's neck.
"You two hungry for something other than dinner?" Andrew chided the embracing couple. They both blushed and released each other as they walked into the grand dining hall. Rini had already taken a seat near the head of the table. She motioned for both of the still blushing adults to join her. Darien sat down at the head of the table, next to Rini's right. Serena backed away from the table when Darien looked up.
"Serena? Won't you join us for dinner?"
"Please!" Rini added and pointed to the seat open on Darien's other side.
"Well, it's not exactly proper for a servant to sit at the grand table with her boss." She stuttered and blushed under Darien's intense gaze.
"Serena! You of all people should know that I am no better than you are! I prefer to treat everyone the same so please sit down and have some dinner. Besides, you are no regular servant, you're a friend of mine and a welcome guest in my home. Now please, join Rini and I for some dinner."
Serena shrugged her shoulders and walked towards the unoccupied seat on Darien's right. She was about to pull out the chair when Darien stood up and pulled it out for her. "Here you go Miss.," he said bowing at the waist to her. She giggled and took a seat when he pushed her in. He then took his own seat and smiled. "Well I wonder what Lita has prepared for us tonight?"
"Well, I decided that since we have a guest in our home, we should cook some traditional meals. But then I realized hate traditional so I made a few dishes, spaghetti, roast beef, chicken, salad, potatoes of different sorts, um, peas and green beans. There is a wide selection and lots to go around so eat up!" Lita smiled before leaving the room with her eyes twinkling. She winked to Andrew and he smiled before placing plates in front of each of the three.
"You know with the three of you here, it makes you all look like a family, its a good change, cute too." Rini looked up in amazement after Andrew's remarks. She couldn't help but think what if he knew, when she looked at him she saw him wink at her and she smiled back.
"Um, Serena?" she asked hesitantly.
"Yes Rini? What is it?"
"Well, can we do something?"
"What do you mean, so something?"
"You know go out, have fun, relax, everyone here looks like they could use a break, especially you Darien, so why don't the three of us play or something?" she asked.
"Well, um, you see Rini, I can't make that decision. It sure would be fun and all but I'm sure that Mr. Shields wants me to do some work tonight, such as dictation. Maybe another time Rini, I'm sorry." Serena rambled as she looked down at her empty plate.
"Hmm, a break, I haven't had one of those in a long time. You might be right Rini, a break is in order for everyone. Why don't you and I go into town, I'll dismiss the staff, we can catch a movie or something. Sound all right to you?" Darien asked her while raising his brow.
"Sure I guess, sounds fun." Rini said wistfully.
"What's wrong Rini? You don't want to do that?"
"No I do, it's just, aw gee."
"Rini, what is it?" Serena asked concerned.
"Well, I wanted you to come too Serena." Rini sniffed as if she was going to cry.
"Well Rini, why don't you ask her if she'd like to accompany us tonight, that is if she isn't already busy. I think that she deserves a break if I get one, heck she needs one more than I do. So Rini if you'd like her to come, ask her." Darien replied blushing. Andrew smiled, Rini was doing fine.
"Serena! Will you come with us tonight?" Rini turned to her and begged.
"Uh, Rini, I'm kind of tired as it is, and I don't want to intrude on your fun, so I guess I have to decline." she smiled sadly.
"Well then Serena, if you decline, as your boss, I'm ordering you to come with Rini and I tonight too town and relax." he smiled at her and then continued, "Besides, I'd like you to come too." Serena looked up and saw that Darien was blushing heavily as he tried to avoid her eyes. She smiled at him and blushed a little too.
"Well, how can I refuse the invitation then?" she stood up from her place. "I'll be right back, I just want to tidy up a bit before going out." Serena quickly left the room and Andrew smirked at his friend's actions.
"Rini, can you do me a favor tonight?"
"Sure, what kind of favor Darien?"
"Uh, you're going to have to be secretive about this, for it's a top secret mission, okay." He paused and Rini nodded her head energetically to show she understood. "Find out if Serena, uh, seeing anyone. Okay? Just make sure she doesn't know that I asked you to ask, got that?" she nodded again and he smiled.
"Rini?"
"Yes Mr. Andrew?"
"I'd like to have you come here for a few minutes, you know help me out a little." he hinted and she quickly left the table. "I'll bring her right back Dare. By the way, what car do you want to take tonight?"
"Uh, exercise is good, we'll walk and don't worry, I want to go change quickly, so don't hurry with Rini." he left the table and walked out of the room. As he rounded the corner he crashed into Minalle. "Oh, I'm terribly sorry Mina."
"It's quite alright, and I have something for you."
"You do?" he asked questioningly.
"Uh huh, look she's single."
"Who?"
"Well duh, Rena! And she loves roses, red roses to be exact, catch my drift?"
"Ah," he glanced around himself, then quickly smiled at her, "Thanks." She smiled and boith continued in opposite directions.
"Rini, hint to Serena about Darien being single too, and that the two of you would make a cute couple if she's single. Got it?"
"Sure Andrew, what you want me to do is make it kind of hinty that you have a chance with him, so take it." she smiled at his amazed reaction.
"Your nine?" she nodded. "Yeah you got it. Good luck Agent Rini." he saluted her and she saluted him before running up to her room.
Half an hour later Darien was wearing a black trench coat with his dark blue scarf. Rini was wearing a light pink coat with white mittens and a white hat to match. They were standing at the foot of the stairs waiting for the final member to come down the stairs. Moments later a streak of blue came sliding down the marble floor before rushing down the stairs. She held an overcoat, mittens and a beret in her hands. She stopped in front of the duo and smiled.
"I couldn't find my things, sorry it took me so long." She was trying to put her jacket on when she felt two hands grip her coat.
"Here, looked like you could use some help." He held the jacket up as she slid her arms into the sleeves. She buttoned herself up and pulled on her light blue gloves. She looked for her beret and when she saw where it was, she burst out laughing. It was on top of Darien's hair tilted to the side and he was striking a fashion pose. Both she and Rini were giggling at his antics. Serena swiped the beret off his head and placed it on her own, snuggly over her ears.
"Ready?" she asked them both when she noticed her boss's lack of mittens and headgear. "Now I know you're my boss and all, but you really don't want to get sick do you?"
"I'll be fine, besides, I have a cute girl to keep me warm if I need it." he smiled and opened the door. "I also have pockets for my hands, don't worry, if I get sick, I'll blame myself." He closed the door and the trio walked down the path to the road.