Chapter Four
The Introduction of the New Princess
The royal throne room was buzzing with sensation.
The very moment after Queen Serenity had left the chamber a murmur had gone up among her assembled courtiers. There was excited whispering in the air and the topic that was being discussed was the new princess who was going to be introduced to them in a moment.
The Queen's announcement had astonished everyone in the chamber. None had expected it for it had been made apparently on the spur of the moment. And the most startling thing was that nobody knew the name of the princess she had mentioned.
Princess Universe...
None were familiar with the name. Who was she? At present the only man in the room who knew about Universe was Ambassador Xizor and he stood in his place neither saying nor doing anything to give away that he knew any more than anybody else about the mysterious new princess.
And the princesses of the galaxy assembled upon the platform of the throne were no exception to the thrill of excitement in the air.
"What a surprise!" Princess Mercury murmured to her friends. "It would seem that we are about to meet a new friend."
"Yes but isn't it strange?" Princess Venus remarked brightly. "This is all sudden isn't it? And I've never heard of Princess Universe!"
Princess Charon shook her head in agreement as she stroked Estrella the kitten and youngest advisor of Queen Serenity as she sat in her lap.
"Did your mother tell you anything?" Venus asked the Moon Princess who shook her head in response.
"No. This has surprised me as much as it has you." she replied.
"How strange! How mysterious even!" Venus giggled.
There was a grunt. It was Princess Jupiter who made the grunt. "I'd say it's more strange than mysterious." she muttered grimly. "Too strange in fact."
"What do you mean?" Princess Mars spoke for almost the first time that day.
"Well look here did the Queen tell us anything beforehand? No." Jupiter explained. "She's just sprung in on us. Why?"
They all thought about that for a little while. "It's strange I have to say." Venus admitted uncomfortably after a while.
"That's nonsense." the Moon Princess said suddenly. "There has to be a reason. My mother wouldn't simply accept somebody she knew nothing about. You'll see."
"I didn't say that she knew nothing about her. All I'm saying is that there's got to be something odd about this princess that we don't know about yet. and let's face it we don't know ANYTHING about her yet do we?" Jupiter demanded suspiciously
"Oh you're just being suspicious of her because she's new here." Venus cut in impatiently. "Can't you give her a chance before you've even met her?"
"It wouldn't be the first time." Charon said unexpectedly and now there was a mild and teasing smile on her lovely face. "As I've heard you made some pretty unflattering speculations about me before I first arrived Jupiter."
Jupiter's face became defensive. "That was a long time ago." she retorted. "I didn't know you then."
"It was two months ago." Mercury said helpfully.
"Well I turned out to be wrong didn't I?" Jupiter persevered although she felt a strange sense that she was fighting a losing battle.
"Oh I don't know. One isn't sure about what to think of being denounced as big headed, rude and spoilt by one who hasn't even met her yet." Charon mused teasingly. "What do you say Jupiter?"
The other princesses all laughed as Jupiter sat unable to muster a defence.
Estrella was lying in Charon's lap rather than sitting with her elder advisors Luna and Artemis. The kitten was filled with excitement as the Charonian princess stroked her ginger head.
A new Princess! Another new Princess!
Estrella felt the same excitement brewing up inside her as she had the day the Charonian capsule had arrived on the Moon carrying a letter from the Queen of Charon asking Queen Serenity to give safe haven to her daughter during the great war of the between Pluto and it's rival planet Palazea. The kitten remembered how excited she had felt when Serenity had accepted Chara's request so that Princess Charon would be spared from witnessing the evils of the war. Estrella had heard the legend of the Outer Moon Princess many times and it was still her favourite story.
So when she had realised that Princess Charon was actually coming to visit she had looked forward to it with great excitement. Her desire to meet Charon had been well founded and now the Princess of the Outer Moon was her favourite and most loved princess especially after she had been allowed to stay on the Moon indefinitely as part of Queen Serenity's Royal Court.
And now another Princess was coming to stay with them!
Estrella could not wait to meet Universe and her shining eyes were fixed upon the door through which Serenity had gone to fetch her.
And then finally as the kitten's suspense was becoming unbearable the glorious promised moment finally came. The vast assembly became hushed and silent as Queen Serenity appeared in the great doorway.
Serenity walked forward as all around her fell silent and a girl was revealed standing behind her as if she was trying to hide behind the Queen.
There was a dark scowl fixed on the girls lips as the Courtiers and Princesses and Cat Advisors looked upon Princess Universe for the first time ever. The thousands of pairs of eyes gazed fixedly at her in rapt fascination as she was led towards the front of the room by Queen Serenity.
Murmuring filled the room as the people inspected her from all sides. "Oh my…she's gorgeous!"
"She looks nervous…nothing holding this girl up but the stays in her bodice!"
"I wonder where she came from?"
"Who cares? I wish I had her hair!"
Universe walked stiffly beneath the many eyes that watched her as she took her first official steps as a Princess – from the corner of her eye she was sure that she noticed one noblewoman gazing at her in a way that somehow seemed more intent, more speculative than the attention that she was receiving from the other members of the Court. Universe had no time to wonder what it was all about as she walked by this particular noblewoman who watched her pass but it annoyed her like hell for some reason she couldn't quite put her finger on…it made her feel like she was some kind of new imported goods that had just arrived in the market.
"That's her?" Venus murmured as she watched the approaching pair. "That's Universe?"
"I guess." Charon nodded raising herself on her hands slightly to get a better look.
Jupiter gave another grunt. "Well it looks as though I was right doesn't it? Just look at her face?" she snapped.
The other princesses realised that she was right as they saw the unhappy scowl on Universe's face. "I wonder what's the matter with her?" Venus remarked. "She doesn't look happy at all."
"Perhaps she's nervous." Mars suggested, her eyes on Universe curiously.
"Nervous? Does she look like it?" Jupiter retorted hotly.
Mars looked closer at the nearing Princess. "Well...no she doesn't really." she admitted after a while. "She looks more like..." she faltered and trailed off into silence.
"Like?" Venus prompted her.
"Like she'd rather be anywhere than here." Jupiter snapped before Mars could continue. "Well the way I see it we'll wish she was before long believe-you-me!"
The Moon Princess sighed. "I wish you would not insist on being so suspicious of our new friend."
All the while Mercury had been watching Universe intently without heeding her friends voices. Mercury had noticed Universe's expression immediately and seen something she recognised. Something that was familiar to her that she had once know herself.
Mercury spoke almost without realising she did so. "She's lonely." she whispered in a voice so quiet that none of her friends heard her.
Queen Serenity smiled at them all as she stepped up to stand with them on the platform. Universe stopped at the bottom of the steps leading up to the throne unwilling to stand up on the platform for all of those assembled to see.
Universe's mind was blank as she stood among the sea of eyes staring at her and she gazed fixedly ahead avoiding all of them.
Charon felt very much reminded of her own terror on the day she had first arrived on the Moon two months ago - she thought about how terribly frightened she had been as she had emerged from the Charonian space craft. Serenity had had to come in and speak to her alone to soothe her gently such had been her terror and now Charon felt sympathy reaching out towards Universe who now stood in similar turmoil.
Realising that it would be best if she intervened Serenity reached down and placed her gentle hand on Universe's shoulder. Immediately Universe stiffened and her trance broke as she looked up at the Queen.
Their eyes met and Serenity gave her that warm and reassuring smile of hers which always managed to calm angry or upset children. As they gazed at each other Universe's own eyes softened and she seemed to relax.
Not totally but enough...
As she felt the girls shoulder relax in her hand Serenity pulled her up gently to stand with her on the Platform. Estrella shuffled with excitement. The kitten was standing close to the edge of the platform and so she had a perfect chance to look at Universe's face as the Princess stepped up.
Estrella saw the indomitable pride that burned in her eyes and felt herself wondering at it. This Princess was the same as the others. But she was also different at the same time. To Estrella it seemed as she looked upon Universe's beautiful and yet uneasy face that this girl was even wilder than she was herself. A wild untamed princess of the wild.
Estrella could not help but speak out loud as she mulled all this over in her mind. "Not, tame Princess!" she squeaked more to herself than to any of those around her.
"Estrella you say the funniest things!" Charon whispered as she scooped the kitten up in her arms.
Universe had heard the kitten and although her face did not betray it she couldn't help thinking just how appropriate and fitting for her Estrella's words were.
Jupiter's face became even grimmer as Universe lowered her eyes to avoid the gaze of the Princesses. Did she think that she was better than the rest of them? Why else would she refuse to look at them if she wasn't nervous or scared?
Serenity judged that now was the best time and she turned Universe around to face the gathering. Then the Queen of the Moon Kingdom spoke in a voice that was firm and carried throughout the entire room.
"Noblemen, ladies, advisors and princesses of the Royal Court it gives me great pleasure to introduce to all of you the newest member of our court, Princess Universe!" Serenity declared, her face adorned with a radiant smile. "She has come a long way to be with us and I have brought her here tonight so that you can all know that she is now an honoured guest of the Moon Kingdom and a Princess under my Guardianship…" Universe's face was an emotionless mask as the chamber filled with a roar of approval. Hey what…? She thought as she brooded about the last part of what Serenity had just said concerning her. It felt almost as if that roar followed by Serenity's words was the thing that settled the end of her old life and ultimately her freedom.
Queen Serenity sensed how Universe must be feeling - she understood only too well. The girl she had first met on Min had been so vibrant and alive but now she seemed to have been drained and all that remained was a strange defiance in her eyes.
Serenity knew that she had made the right choice in bringing Universe here for there was no evil in her eyes. Up until now her life had been as free as that of a bird and she had had no responsibilities or obligations.
Now she simply felt tied down…trapped. And though she felt a gnawing sense of guilt for having taken away her freedom Serenity took comfort in the knowledge that the other Princesses would do their best to make her feel at home. The only question that remained was whether or not Universe would let them.
As the cheering went on Serenity led Universe over to the other princesses. "I would like to introduce you to the other princesses of the court." she took her hands from Universe's shoulders. "My dears this is Princess Universe. She has journeyed a long way to be here with us and I know that I can trust you all to make her feel welcome." she made another decision on the spot and followed through with it at once. "There is something which I think that you all ought to know." she lowered her voice so that only they and the cat advisors could hear what she said. "When I told you all that she has come a long way I was being evasive. The truth is that Universe has not always known herself to be a princess. I informed her of her noble blood when we first met yesterday."
The princesses eyes widened on surprise. "Then who is she and where did she come from?" Jupiter demanded giving Universe a hard accusing look.
Serenity took another deep breath and went for it. "Until recently she was a huntress and the leader of a group of Space Warriors called the Star Raiders." she responded simply.
The girls had been surprised before but now they were amazed. Jupiter's eyes were now slits and Charon felt Estrella's body stiffening in her arms. Looking down at the kitten she saw a look of deep dismay on her small furry face.
"Estrella? Are you alright?" she whispered but Estrella could not reply for the fear that had seized hold of her tongue.
She could hardly believe what Queen Serenity had said.
Princess Universe was...a huntress?
One of those horrible people who chased animals in order to trap and then kill them for their meat?
The kitten felt cold prickles creeping up her spine - she had been so excited to meet the new Princess but now she was baffled and began to feel afraid.
Queen Serenity had said that Universe was a good person but how could she be if she was a huntress? And also Serenity had told them that Universe had saved her life on Min so was it possible that it was true? But how could someone be good and bad at the same time?
Feeling unsafe Estrella gave a tiny whimper that was heard by none of those on the platform with her but Charon. As she looked at the purple haired girl who stood with her back to her the kitten felt dreadfully frightened and wondered what was going to happen...
"I have my own reasons for this decision." Serenity went on as she saw the thoughts lurking in their eyes. "During the time I spent with Universe when I first met her I discovered that she possesses powers similar to your own. But more importantly I realised that she is truly good and that her spirit is as pure as snow. For these reason I have decided to bring her to be among those with who she belongs."
Universe was staring at her. She had been assuming that her past would be kept secret but instead she had told the princesses all about her.
Serenity did not seem to mind them knowing that she had once been a Space Fighter.
Universe felt a great weight lift from her shoulders. She had been dreading the other princesses asking her questions about herself and where she had come from and now that Serenity had removed the concern for her Universe felt weak with relief.
"I know that this must come as a great shock to all of you." Serenity was continuing. "But if you need reassurance of my words then look into her eyes."
Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Venus, Charon and her own daughter looked into Universe's eyes.
They all immediately recognised the glow in them. "Oh!" Venus exclaimed as she realised that she was gazing into what could have been her own eyes had they been brown. "Her eyes...they're almost the same but different!"
"I see that you all understand." Serenity nodded. "Now please listen to me all of you, I know that I can depend upon you all to take care of Universe and I have told you this so that you will know not to treat any differently from the rest of you. Can you do so?"
"Of course!" Venus beamed warmly after her surprise at the revelation had died down.
"You can trust us your majesty." Mercury replied - When she had looked into Universe's eyes Mercury had been struck by the pride and defiance she had seen there. But in them there was also a definite warmth and honesty - however the thing she noticed the most about Universe was the great sorrow in her eyes that seemed to forever drag her down.
Mercury didn't understand it but deep down she knew that she and Universe were very like each other.
The others all responded positively to Serenity's request and the Queen smiled pleased by the support they were giving her. "Thank you all. I knew that I could count on you." the Queen raised her voice so that the entire hall could hear her. "And now it is time for you all to know one another properly."
Indicating for Universe to follow her she led the newcomer over to where Venus stood. "Princess Venus I would like you to meet Princess Universe." Serenity said grandly.
Universe looked at the cheerful Princess of Venus who regarded her with great curiosity and interest. "Hi there." Universe said awkwardly speaking out loud for the first time since she had come into the Throne Room.
"It's nice to meet you Universe. I can't wait to hear about what it's like to be a Star Raider!" Venus replied eagerly. "Uh-huh?"
Universe wasn't looking forward to telling her.
"Next Princess Mars." Serenity led her over to Princess Mars.
Universe looked at Mars who gazed back at her questioningly trying to decide what to make of the newcomer. "Hey. How are ya?" Universe greeted her with a forced smile which was more a smirk.
"I'm fine. Thank you for asking." Mars replied politely but quietly. "And you yourself?"
"Fine, fine."
There's that relationship off to a flying start then... Universe thought as Serenity took her to meet Princess Charon.
"Princess Charon." Serenity announced as the two princesses stood and looked each other in the eyes.
Universe felt a jolt - at first she was shocked by the presence of the mythical Princess of Charon but that passed quickly...after all she'd been to places that none of the people around her would have believed and met some of the most incredible people who had ever lived so nothing ever really surprised her anymore.
What came next was much worse - as she realised the implications of the green-haired Princess being the heiress of the throne of the outer moon a familiar tight feeling seized hold of her stomach - a feeling that had been so close to her over the last year that it might as well have been a second heart. However she was keeping the green-haired Princess waiting and hastily she greeted her as she struggled with her own turmoil. "Glad to..." Universe's voice caught off as she caught Charon's gaze.
There was something strange about her eyes that she herself knew well for her own contained it as well - an elegance, a grace that she had never thought she would ever see again...that had been part of the reason for her initial speechlessness when she had first seen Serenity up close at on Min and now she could see that Charon knew it as well for the green-haired Princess' eyes widened as she saw the very same thing in Universe's eyes - the magical light that Universe had seen in those of the Queen of the Moon and now hers.
"Your eyes!" Charon gasped in disbelief. "I don't believe it! They're...!!!"
"Yeah." Universe nodded. "I've seen them as well."
Both Charon and Universe had met the Lyanore who dwelt on Charon in their glory and so their beauty was forever reflected in their eyes just as it was in the eyes of Queen Serenity.
Universe bestowed Charon with an enigmatic wink. "Tell ya later." she promised as Serenity took her over to Princess Jupiter.
Charon looked forward to it already and inwardly Universe could not help but feel a certain warmth towards her - as she had been led towards the Princess of the outer moon the first feelings that had gone through her mind had been fear. Already tonight she had felt a deep nervousness but she of all people knew that the two were not the same and in her own mind she'd had a fine reason to feel nervous about being in such close proximity to the heiress to the throne of Charon. After what she'd done... but shaking her head she realised that for some reason she could not feel the heavy weight of the guilt that had dragged her soul down every day since the last time she had ever been to the outer moon...something about that girl just seemed to disarm worries or guilt. It hadn't made the pain or feelings of responsibility for an evil thing go away but still...she did feel a little better for having met the Princess of Charon.
"This is Princess Jupiter." Serenity introduced her and hoped for the best. The Queen knew that if there was anyone who Universe may not take to it would be Jupiter. And her worst fears were proved to be well founded.
Universe looked at Jupiter and instantly her face darkened. Jupiter's face was cold and unfriendly as she stared indifferently at the newcomer.
"Hey." Universe said utterly deadpan.
"Hey." Jupiter responded with unconcealed hostility and Serenity's heart sank.
As she had feared and hoped against they had gotten off on the wrong foot right from the start. Jupiter didn't care for Universe's attitude and Universe cared even less for Jupiter's.
"Princess Mercury is next." she said tactfully taking Universe to meet Mercury.
Universe's eyes had narrowed into slits and she craned her head to remain in locked gazed with Jupiter who stared after her as she went.
Universe turned away to look at Mercury and in an instant she stared unable to tear her eyes away from her. Universe's first thought as she looked at the Princess of Mercury was that she was the most beautiful creature she had ever seen.
The Mercurian's face had an irresistible comeliness but this was not what attracted Universe to her. In comparison to Mercury, Universe thought that Queen Serenity's beauty was timeless and held a great sadness in it which was the main focus of her silken loveliness. Princess Mercury was quite different.
Mercury's beauty lay in her pure innocence. Goodness and kindness, the best natures of them all beamed from her face and her eyes were so shy that they were to put it plainly gorgeous.
Just thinking about this girl made Universe feel funny... "You're...beautiful." she heard herself say much to her own disbelief.
Mercury gave a start and her eyes widened in surprise. Whatever she had expected Universe to say to her it had not been this.
"I..." Mercury stammered as a light pink entered her cheeks. "That is I..."
Universe cursed herself for letting her tongue run away with her. Getting like that the way she had. She was acting like a barely pubic twelve year old for Gods sake!
Not only was Mercury lost for words and left floundering but also the other Princesses were now looking at her even stranger than before although she couldn't really say that she was bothered by what they thought she felt flummoxed beneath their stares.
Luckily Serenity came to their rescue. "And lastly my daughter the Moon Princess." Serenity led her to where her daughter stood last in line.
The Moon Princess looked carefully at Universe. She had heard tales about Space Fighters and had been surprised that her mother had decided to make their leader a Princess.
Because of the newcomer's background she was not sure whether or not she could really trust Universe. After all from what she had seen and heard of her so far Universe seemed very erratic in personality.
But then again her mother had said that she was a good person and she wouldn't have brought her here if she couldn't be trusted. Also she was the Princess of the Moon Kingdom and it wouldn't look good to the Courtiers if she seemed impolite to the newcomer. So as she stood face to face with Universe the Moon Princess smiled her most warm and welcoming smile at her.
"Welcome to the Moon Kingdom Princess Universe. I hope that you will be very happy here among us. We all do." she greeted her. "I would like it very much if we could become friends."
Queen Serenity felt a surge of pride in her daughter and she turned to see Universe's response.
As it happened however the Moon Princess needn't have bothered to make that effort at all for all the time Universe had been wrestling with a problem of her own. As Serenity had led her up to her Universe had told herself sternly that she would absolutely not, under any circumstances do a certain thing.
This order she now completely failed to obey. The temptation to disobey it was just far too great.
Universe's eyes slunk down to look at the Moon Princess's chest - Katarina had aroused her curiosity and it was just too strong to fight now that it was free.
Universe realized that the Moon Princess's chest was pretty flat compared to the other Princesses and herself...
Universe realized that she was staring at the Moon Princess's chest and she jerked her gaze back up to her face silently cursing Katarina as she did so. You did that you bitch! she growled inwardly.
Blissfully unaware of what Universe was thinking about the Moon Princess watched as the purple haired princess looked up her awkwardly realising that she had just been spoken to. "Er...sorry were you saying something?" Universe stammered.
The Moon Princess repeated her eloquent greeting though it must be said that it had lost most of its impact this time.
"Um yeah. Same here." Universe responded uncertainly.
Queen Serenity sighed inwardly. The whole thing had gone rather less than perfectly...still it was early days yet and time would tell whether or not Universe would build bridges with the princesses with who she had not gotten off to a good start with.
Then she decided to bring the princess to the front of the platform and once more formally announce the name of the latest princess of her court. Her nervousness gone Universe walked forward at once, her face totally free of her earlier turmoil.
Queen Serenity faced her subjects once more as she proclaimed in a voice that was quiet and yet carried all the way throughout the Throne Room.
"Princess Universe!"
"Hail Princess Universe!" the courtiers echoed and in the cries of applause that followed nobody noticed the little ginger kitten who slunk out of the chamber feeling terribly frightened.
~*~*~
Three hours onward…
The party had long since begun but Universe for whom the entire affair had been arranged was definitely not having any fun.
Universe was spending her evening stood over at the farthest side of the Ball Room trying to be invisible but this was not to be. As the new arrival she found that she had quickly become a figure of fascination and speculation since nobody present that night had ever heard about her.
Very soon after the party had begun Universe had started to hear her name mentioned in the whispered conversations that sprang up behind her back wherever she wandered. The young ladies were aflutter about a mysterious heartbreak in her past and many of the older women buzzed about the rumour that both of her parents had recently died and that Serenity had brought her here in order to groom her to be a Queen.
Many of the mothers and fathers with sons gave her speculative looks and several single girls and women shot her dark looks as she attracted interest among many men wherever she walked in the hall.
The nobility sure had overactive imaginations…
Universe found that no matter how hard she tried to avoid being noticed many people drifted over to her as the night got underway – all determined to talk to with her whether she liked it or not.
Many of them slyly slipped thinly veiled questions into their long drawn-out conversations – questions that were designed to make her reveal things about herself. Luckily she was clever enough to answer these questions in ways that confused the people who spoke to her or even avoided giving a straight answer altogether so she didn't find herself in trouble.
But Universe was quickly bored by the endless talking and even more annoyed by the many young men who approached her asking her to dance with them that night – she'd turned down several invitations to formal dinners and a ball and put a good few noses out of joint in doing so. And that hadn't been all – as she slowly walked around the hall she'd occasionally felt an urge to look over her shoulder. Her instincts, she realised, were warning her that she was being followed, stalked almost, but whenever she looked around she couldn't see anybody paying her any more attention than the rest of the courtiers – and they were all paying her a LOT. Anyway – it was probably only her imagination.
Yet for some reason she hadn't been able to feel quite sure – after all her instinct had served her well during her life on the trail so it was pretty hard to ignore by now. If she couldn't trust her own gut then what COULD she trust…?
The glasses of wine that she had glimpsed on a table had seemed like a spot of good, strong solace from her isolation from what was going on around her. However Xizor had clocked her and the very moment after she had picked up a glass of wine that would be sure to make her forget her troubles his hand had plucked it away from her before anybody else could notice what she was doing.
"The very idea!" the ambassador had remarked reprovingly as the new Princess had scowled ineffectively at him
After a while she was feeling so closed in by the huge amount of people gathered that she was desperate for a breath of cool fresh air – so desperate for some time to herself so that she could think without some noblewoman speaking to her non-stop – slipping hints about introducing her to her son who would be needing a bride now that he was nearly of age. As she looked around trembling like a caged animal for somewhere to escape to Venus homed in on her. "Are you alright?" she asked.
Universe glanced at the Venusian – she looked concerned. "Yeah." Universe muttered and then abruptly walked right past Venus – she'd spotted a pair of drapes that veiled a balcony outside the Ball Room and made for it like a bird flew for a tree in the middle of a storm.
The sudden manner of Universe's departure had surprised Venus and she even felt a little hurt as well. As she watched the purple-haired girl walking towards the drapes she wondered why she was so upset as she obviously was.
"Venus." Charon called as she walked up to the blonde princess who turned and was struck by the worry she saw in her friends face. "Have you seen Estrella anywhere?"
"No. Why?" Venus asked in concern. "Is she lost again?"
"I don't know…she slipped away from me while we were being introduced to Universe and I haven't seen her since!" charon sighed and shook her head. "Oh well – she'll turn up eventually! But I wish that I knew why she was acting so strangely…" snapping out of it she turned her eyes in the direction that Universe had slipped off into. "Speaking of Universe is there anything wrong with her? She still seems to be quite upset…"
"I must say that I don't know Charon." Venus replied worried about the new princess although she had not known her for very long. "She still seems to be very unhappy doesn't she?"
Charon nodded sympathetically as she thought about Universe. "Well she's bound to feel left out at first you know Venus. All of this must be a lot different than what she is used to you know." She said reasonably. "We must do our best to make her feel welcome."
"You are right Charon." The Moon Princess agreed as she and the other princesses approached them. "It is up to all of us to make Universe feel that she fits in with us."
"Let the good times roll." Jupiter muttered under her breath as she rolled her green eyes sarcastically.
Universe's eyes were calm but also empty of emotion as she stood at the edge of the balcony rail. But the only reason that her face was so vague was that the anxiety in her heart was bordering so near to panic that if she let herself in to it then she wouldn't be able to stop worrying until she'd gone out of her mind.
"I like this spot very much." A cheerful voice remarked lightly as its owner walked elegantly to join her at the rail. "It has such a wonderful view of the kingdom. Sometimes I spend hours here all alone with my own thoughts to keep me company."
Universe was sombre-faced as she looked up at Queen Serenity who stood by her side – the Queen's face was concerned and her eyes understanding as she gazed at the girl who she knew must be feeling overwhelmed with unhappiness and loneliness.
Serenity had seen Universe slinking away from the party and knowing that she must be feeling like a fish out of water she had decided to slip herself to have a talk with her alone.
"But what are you doing out here Universe?" Serenity asked kindly as the purple-haired girl turned to stare at the grand view again as if she were not there. "Is there anything the matter? Weren't you enjoying the party?"
Universe snorted. "Nah – that's just for girls." She replied disdainfully.
Queen Serenity gave her a very peculiar look. "But you ARE a girl Universe…" she murmured looking slightly puzzled.
Of course she knew very well what Universe was going through but she wanted the girl to tell her about it of her own choice. But it was too soon for that – Universe still didn't completely trust her.
"Why shouldn't I be here?" she retorted quietly. "Am I on a leash?"
Queen Serenity gazed at her and felt quite sad at her reluctance to confide in her – resolving to try again she smiled brightly "Come along now Universe – tell me what is troubling you. Or must I make it a royal decree?" she teased.
Universe lowered her eyes and did not reply. The smile on Queen Serenity's face grew sad – she did not like to see the purple-haired girl so unhappy and for a moment she found herself wondering if this had been such a good idea.
"It's alright Universe." She said and reached out and put her hand on Universe's slumped shoulder. "You don't have to do anything that you don't want. I know how hard this must all be for you but I promise that it will grow easier with time. But please remember that if you ever need somebody to talk to I will always be here for you. I understand how you feel and if you decide that you want it then I will help you."
Universe stared at her. "Glad to hear it…now umm, explain to me exactly what you meant back there." She said coolly. "What's the whole 'you're now in charge of me' thing all about?"
It had been bothering her ever since Serenity had said it – to her the Queens announcement had sounded like a declaration of ownership and even though she didn't think that she would take advantage of such an arrangement Universe didn't like being considered somebody else's charge. It felt like losing a small but important part of her freedom and she didn't like it one bit…
Serenity frowned slightly as she detected the sassiness in Universes voice – she predicted that there would surely be a few problems lying in wait for the new Princess during the first couple of days of her new life here. "That is not a very polite question Universe." She remarked plainly.
"But I'd say that it's a pretty good one." Universe replied stubbornly with a defiant look. "Why don't you answer it?
Queen Serenity frowned – it was obvious that this girl was going to be difficult and she hoped that she would not have to discipline her at any point. "You must learn the ways of a Princess now Universe." she told the purple-haired girl in a gentle but firm voice. "You live in a different world now…a different way of life. Don't worry for I am sure that you will grow accustomed to everything in time...don't rush yourself while you are still learning."
For a while the two stood quietly at the rail – but as she and Universe stood looking out at the enchanting view of the Moon Kingdom Serenity's mind was occupied by the worry of something that she had noticed earlier…
Deciding to discuss the troubling matter that had been on her mind from that very moment she looked at Universe again and this time her face was grave. "I would like to ask you something Universe and I would like you to answer me truthfully." Her tone was not severe but it was definitely stern. "Do you drink?"
Universe thought carefully about how she'd respond to this – she realized that her host had spotted the disagreement between herself and Xizor earlier and made an accurate guess that lying would be a big mistake. "I enjoy the occasional jar." she said stolidly.
Serenity pursed her lips and now her expression did become severe. "Well I must ask you not to touch anymore alcohol until you are very much older." She said in a voice that sounded more like she was giving Universe an unofficial command. "Is that clear?"
Universe stared at her in disbelief but she could see that the Queen was not joking – so what, now she couldn't even drown her sorrows?
"I am waiting Universe." Serenity added patiently yet her voice made it perfectly clear that she expected an answer.
Universe clenched her teeth and for a moment she came closer to saying something she might have regretted very much later on – so she was astonished when she sulkily muttered, "Whatever."
Serenity gazed carefully at her wondering whether she could trust her to keep to her word – Universe was inwardly trembling with anger.
Today she'd lost her spear, her clothes, her comrades, her name, her freedom to go where she wanted and now her freedom to do as she chose – if this was what being a Princess meant then she already hated it.
"Good." Serenity eventually said with a pleased smile. "I am grateful Universe…truly I am. Really it will not be the loss that you imagine it to be. Drinking is very bad for a girl your age – trust me Universe."
Universe didn't say a thing and sighing inwardly Serenity realized that she felt resentment towards her – perhaps even a trace of bitterness. The Lunarian hoped that it would not last for long but she didn't think badly of Universe for feeling the way she did – change was always difficult and this girl had been brought up very unusually so she was willing to make allowances for her.
Universe still didn't say anything but she raised her eyes again and met her own and Serenity smiled at her. "Are you tired?" she asked gently. "Would you like to go to bed now Universe?"
Universe nodded at once – relieved at the chance to leave the Ball Room and be entirely alone to think about all this without a million people breathing down her neck.
"Very well – you may go." Serenity said with a nod. "I arranged for a room to be prepared for you. Shall I have somebody take you to it?"
Universe shook her head vigorously. "Nah – just tell me where I can find it." She said embarrassed at the idea of being taken to bed like a child.
Serenity nodded accepting her wish and gave her the directions that would lead her to her bedroom. "I hope that you like it Universe." She said pleasantly. "If you find anything that you don't like then simply let me know I will have it changed tomorrow."
Universe nodded and turned to walk away – but at the last minute she stopped and turned back to face the Queen again. "Why are you doing this?" she just came out with it like that. "Why? I could be a threat to you… How can you trust me just like that? You barely even know me!"
Serenity's face was calm and patient as Universe stared at her waiting for an answer. When she spoke her voice was clear and firm but what she said calmed Universe. "Well you risked your life to save mine for a start – that in my opinion makes you trustworthy Universe. And from what I have seen of you I think that you are a good person." She paused for a moment and then continued. "As for barely knowing you – well when you have known as many girls of your age as I have you grow to recognize certain things in them Universe. And when you have children of your own one day…"
Universe practically jumped and gave an appalled gasp. "I'M not gonna have kids!" she exclaimed, her face a picture of pure shock.
Queen Serenity resisted the urge not to burst into laughter at the horrified expression on Universe's face. "Oh? Well...I suppose that YOU know best Universe ." She smiled.
As the Queen gazed cheerfully at her distant Kingdom the purple-haired girl stared at her, deep suspicion in her eyes. "Queen Serenity..."
"Yes Universe?"
"I am NOT having kids!"
"Yes Universe...I heard you." Serenity replied demurely, fighting to keep herself from chuckling at Universe' assertiveness and defensiveness on the subject.
Universe stared at the Lunarian, her eyes glaring though a hint of nervousness was slowly creeping into her expression - suddenly she no longer felt so sure.
"Well now…I have kept you talking for long enough now. I am sure that you are feeling tired now Universe. Feel free to go at any time."
For a moment longer Universe stared at her and then she sighed and turned to leave. However Serenity called after her one final time. "Oh and Universe?"
Universe turned back again. "Yeah?"
The Queen gazed fondly at her as she took in ever aspect of her new appearance. "Goodnight." She told her affectionately.
Universe half turned away. "Yeah." She replied over her shoulder and then turned and walked away.
Alone now Serenity watched with a smile on her face as Universe left. "Universe…" she spoke her new charges name quietly as she turned to look at the beauty of the horizon and thought about her.
"Here she comes everyone!" Venus whispered in excitement as Universe came back into view walking past the drapes.
"Alright – let's do this everyone." The Moon Princess ordered the others as Universe walked near to them, As Universe approached they smiled welcomingly at her – even Jupiter though her smile looked especially strained.
"Oh Universe!" the Moon princess began sweetly as she stepped towards her. "We were just thinking that perhaps you would like…"
Universe cut her short. "Can't talk now – tired." She snapped.
Before the Moon Princess could even blink she strode past them and out of the Ball Room. "Oh…" was all that the Princess of the Moon kingdom could think of to say as they stared after her speechlessly.
As the princesses stood almost dazed by Universe's coldness towards them Queen Serenity walked over to them having seen it all. "Do not think too harshly of her." She said to them quietly. "She has only just arrived and is sure to feel distant towards all of us in the beginning."
"She's horrible!" Jupiter blurted out angrily. "Why should we have to put up with her when she carries on like that?"
Serenity just sighed and did not answer the heated question – there was only so much she could do, she realised, she would have to let the Princesses handle this problem by themselves if they were ever going to accept the newcomer of their own choice.
For the last few seconds since Universe had walked out of the hall the Moon princess had stood in silence. Nobody had ever cut her off so rudely and she had found herself at a total loss at first…
Then suddenly, without really knowing why she did it she walked away from the others and out of the Ball-Room to follow Universe – she wanted to speak with her rather than leaving it like this.
As she walked into the corridor she caught sight of the new girl walking towards the doors that led out into the courtyard. "Universe." She called out to the purple-haired girl who stopped and turned around when she heard her voice.
Universe saw her and raised her eyebrows as she wondered what the Moon princess could want from her. As she hurried up to Universe who stayed quiet the Moon Princess clasped both her hands together and spoke from her heart.
"I know that you did not enjoy yourself very much tonight." She said kindly as she did her duty as the Princess of the Moon Kingdom. "But all of us are happy to have you with us you know Universe."
Universe gave a bitter smirk. "Mmmmmm…RIGHT." She replied smoothly as she resisted the impulse to roll her eyes. "Well I've gotta turn in now…nighty-night your highness."
"Why are you so cold?" the Moon Princess suddenly exclaimed right out of the blue. "Why are you so determined to keep your distance when all that I want to do is talk to you?"
Universe felt incensed as she stared at the girl who had accosted her in exasperation. "Better question kitten – why do you want to?" she snapped. "I just cut you blank back there! If I were you I'd have said 'the hell with her' and let it go at that! Why come after me?"
The Moon princess felt taken aback by the anger in the other girl's eyes but she stayed calm in the face of it as she thought of her response. "It is my duty as Princess of the Moon Kingdom to ensure that you find my home a pleasant place to live." She eventually explained.
"Yeah well – you won't have to bother about that for long so don't worry." Universe replied coldly.
"What do you mean?"
"I won't be here for long – in fact I give it a day or two at the most before you're fed up to your back teeth with me!" Universe explained as she turned away. "All clear?"
Before the Moon princess could say another word Universe swung around and walked away without looking back. "I'm still going to try." The Moon Princess called after her though the purple-haired girl showed no sign of whether or not she heard her.
The Moon princess watched sadly as she left – she felt concerned about Universe since she didn't like to see anybody so miserable. Though she felt very awkward around her because of her background the Princess of the Moon Kingdom made a promise to the purple-haired Princess as she stood alone in the corridor.
The vow was that she would do everything she could to help Universe settle into her new home and try to understand her and accept her for who she was. And who knew? Perhaps one day Universe might even smile at her and call her 'friend'.
Who could say...? All things no matter how unlikely they seemed were after all possible...
The Introduction of the New Princess
The royal throne room was buzzing with sensation.
The very moment after Queen Serenity had left the chamber a murmur had gone up among her assembled courtiers. There was excited whispering in the air and the topic that was being discussed was the new princess who was going to be introduced to them in a moment.
The Queen's announcement had astonished everyone in the chamber. None had expected it for it had been made apparently on the spur of the moment. And the most startling thing was that nobody knew the name of the princess she had mentioned.
Princess Universe...
None were familiar with the name. Who was she? At present the only man in the room who knew about Universe was Ambassador Xizor and he stood in his place neither saying nor doing anything to give away that he knew any more than anybody else about the mysterious new princess.
And the princesses of the galaxy assembled upon the platform of the throne were no exception to the thrill of excitement in the air.
"What a surprise!" Princess Mercury murmured to her friends. "It would seem that we are about to meet a new friend."
"Yes but isn't it strange?" Princess Venus remarked brightly. "This is all sudden isn't it? And I've never heard of Princess Universe!"
Princess Charon shook her head in agreement as she stroked Estrella the kitten and youngest advisor of Queen Serenity as she sat in her lap.
"Did your mother tell you anything?" Venus asked the Moon Princess who shook her head in response.
"No. This has surprised me as much as it has you." she replied.
"How strange! How mysterious even!" Venus giggled.
There was a grunt. It was Princess Jupiter who made the grunt. "I'd say it's more strange than mysterious." she muttered grimly. "Too strange in fact."
"What do you mean?" Princess Mars spoke for almost the first time that day.
"Well look here did the Queen tell us anything beforehand? No." Jupiter explained. "She's just sprung in on us. Why?"
They all thought about that for a little while. "It's strange I have to say." Venus admitted uncomfortably after a while.
"That's nonsense." the Moon Princess said suddenly. "There has to be a reason. My mother wouldn't simply accept somebody she knew nothing about. You'll see."
"I didn't say that she knew nothing about her. All I'm saying is that there's got to be something odd about this princess that we don't know about yet. and let's face it we don't know ANYTHING about her yet do we?" Jupiter demanded suspiciously
"Oh you're just being suspicious of her because she's new here." Venus cut in impatiently. "Can't you give her a chance before you've even met her?"
"It wouldn't be the first time." Charon said unexpectedly and now there was a mild and teasing smile on her lovely face. "As I've heard you made some pretty unflattering speculations about me before I first arrived Jupiter."
Jupiter's face became defensive. "That was a long time ago." she retorted. "I didn't know you then."
"It was two months ago." Mercury said helpfully.
"Well I turned out to be wrong didn't I?" Jupiter persevered although she felt a strange sense that she was fighting a losing battle.
"Oh I don't know. One isn't sure about what to think of being denounced as big headed, rude and spoilt by one who hasn't even met her yet." Charon mused teasingly. "What do you say Jupiter?"
The other princesses all laughed as Jupiter sat unable to muster a defence.
Estrella was lying in Charon's lap rather than sitting with her elder advisors Luna and Artemis. The kitten was filled with excitement as the Charonian princess stroked her ginger head.
A new Princess! Another new Princess!
Estrella felt the same excitement brewing up inside her as she had the day the Charonian capsule had arrived on the Moon carrying a letter from the Queen of Charon asking Queen Serenity to give safe haven to her daughter during the great war of the between Pluto and it's rival planet Palazea. The kitten remembered how excited she had felt when Serenity had accepted Chara's request so that Princess Charon would be spared from witnessing the evils of the war. Estrella had heard the legend of the Outer Moon Princess many times and it was still her favourite story.
So when she had realised that Princess Charon was actually coming to visit she had looked forward to it with great excitement. Her desire to meet Charon had been well founded and now the Princess of the Outer Moon was her favourite and most loved princess especially after she had been allowed to stay on the Moon indefinitely as part of Queen Serenity's Royal Court.
And now another Princess was coming to stay with them!
Estrella could not wait to meet Universe and her shining eyes were fixed upon the door through which Serenity had gone to fetch her.
And then finally as the kitten's suspense was becoming unbearable the glorious promised moment finally came. The vast assembly became hushed and silent as Queen Serenity appeared in the great doorway.
Serenity walked forward as all around her fell silent and a girl was revealed standing behind her as if she was trying to hide behind the Queen.
There was a dark scowl fixed on the girls lips as the Courtiers and Princesses and Cat Advisors looked upon Princess Universe for the first time ever. The thousands of pairs of eyes gazed fixedly at her in rapt fascination as she was led towards the front of the room by Queen Serenity.
Murmuring filled the room as the people inspected her from all sides. "Oh my…she's gorgeous!"
"She looks nervous…nothing holding this girl up but the stays in her bodice!"
"I wonder where she came from?"
"Who cares? I wish I had her hair!"
Universe walked stiffly beneath the many eyes that watched her as she took her first official steps as a Princess – from the corner of her eye she was sure that she noticed one noblewoman gazing at her in a way that somehow seemed more intent, more speculative than the attention that she was receiving from the other members of the Court. Universe had no time to wonder what it was all about as she walked by this particular noblewoman who watched her pass but it annoyed her like hell for some reason she couldn't quite put her finger on…it made her feel like she was some kind of new imported goods that had just arrived in the market.
"That's her?" Venus murmured as she watched the approaching pair. "That's Universe?"
"I guess." Charon nodded raising herself on her hands slightly to get a better look.
Jupiter gave another grunt. "Well it looks as though I was right doesn't it? Just look at her face?" she snapped.
The other princesses realised that she was right as they saw the unhappy scowl on Universe's face. "I wonder what's the matter with her?" Venus remarked. "She doesn't look happy at all."
"Perhaps she's nervous." Mars suggested, her eyes on Universe curiously.
"Nervous? Does she look like it?" Jupiter retorted hotly.
Mars looked closer at the nearing Princess. "Well...no she doesn't really." she admitted after a while. "She looks more like..." she faltered and trailed off into silence.
"Like?" Venus prompted her.
"Like she'd rather be anywhere than here." Jupiter snapped before Mars could continue. "Well the way I see it we'll wish she was before long believe-you-me!"
The Moon Princess sighed. "I wish you would not insist on being so suspicious of our new friend."
All the while Mercury had been watching Universe intently without heeding her friends voices. Mercury had noticed Universe's expression immediately and seen something she recognised. Something that was familiar to her that she had once know herself.
Mercury spoke almost without realising she did so. "She's lonely." she whispered in a voice so quiet that none of her friends heard her.
Queen Serenity smiled at them all as she stepped up to stand with them on the platform. Universe stopped at the bottom of the steps leading up to the throne unwilling to stand up on the platform for all of those assembled to see.
Universe's mind was blank as she stood among the sea of eyes staring at her and she gazed fixedly ahead avoiding all of them.
Charon felt very much reminded of her own terror on the day she had first arrived on the Moon two months ago - she thought about how terribly frightened she had been as she had emerged from the Charonian space craft. Serenity had had to come in and speak to her alone to soothe her gently such had been her terror and now Charon felt sympathy reaching out towards Universe who now stood in similar turmoil.
Realising that it would be best if she intervened Serenity reached down and placed her gentle hand on Universe's shoulder. Immediately Universe stiffened and her trance broke as she looked up at the Queen.
Their eyes met and Serenity gave her that warm and reassuring smile of hers which always managed to calm angry or upset children. As they gazed at each other Universe's own eyes softened and she seemed to relax.
Not totally but enough...
As she felt the girls shoulder relax in her hand Serenity pulled her up gently to stand with her on the Platform. Estrella shuffled with excitement. The kitten was standing close to the edge of the platform and so she had a perfect chance to look at Universe's face as the Princess stepped up.
Estrella saw the indomitable pride that burned in her eyes and felt herself wondering at it. This Princess was the same as the others. But she was also different at the same time. To Estrella it seemed as she looked upon Universe's beautiful and yet uneasy face that this girl was even wilder than she was herself. A wild untamed princess of the wild.
Estrella could not help but speak out loud as she mulled all this over in her mind. "Not, tame Princess!" she squeaked more to herself than to any of those around her.
"Estrella you say the funniest things!" Charon whispered as she scooped the kitten up in her arms.
Universe had heard the kitten and although her face did not betray it she couldn't help thinking just how appropriate and fitting for her Estrella's words were.
Jupiter's face became even grimmer as Universe lowered her eyes to avoid the gaze of the Princesses. Did she think that she was better than the rest of them? Why else would she refuse to look at them if she wasn't nervous or scared?
Serenity judged that now was the best time and she turned Universe around to face the gathering. Then the Queen of the Moon Kingdom spoke in a voice that was firm and carried throughout the entire room.
"Noblemen, ladies, advisors and princesses of the Royal Court it gives me great pleasure to introduce to all of you the newest member of our court, Princess Universe!" Serenity declared, her face adorned with a radiant smile. "She has come a long way to be with us and I have brought her here tonight so that you can all know that she is now an honoured guest of the Moon Kingdom and a Princess under my Guardianship…" Universe's face was an emotionless mask as the chamber filled with a roar of approval. Hey what…? She thought as she brooded about the last part of what Serenity had just said concerning her. It felt almost as if that roar followed by Serenity's words was the thing that settled the end of her old life and ultimately her freedom.
Queen Serenity sensed how Universe must be feeling - she understood only too well. The girl she had first met on Min had been so vibrant and alive but now she seemed to have been drained and all that remained was a strange defiance in her eyes.
Serenity knew that she had made the right choice in bringing Universe here for there was no evil in her eyes. Up until now her life had been as free as that of a bird and she had had no responsibilities or obligations.
Now she simply felt tied down…trapped. And though she felt a gnawing sense of guilt for having taken away her freedom Serenity took comfort in the knowledge that the other Princesses would do their best to make her feel at home. The only question that remained was whether or not Universe would let them.
As the cheering went on Serenity led Universe over to the other princesses. "I would like to introduce you to the other princesses of the court." she took her hands from Universe's shoulders. "My dears this is Princess Universe. She has journeyed a long way to be here with us and I know that I can trust you all to make her feel welcome." she made another decision on the spot and followed through with it at once. "There is something which I think that you all ought to know." she lowered her voice so that only they and the cat advisors could hear what she said. "When I told you all that she has come a long way I was being evasive. The truth is that Universe has not always known herself to be a princess. I informed her of her noble blood when we first met yesterday."
The princesses eyes widened on surprise. "Then who is she and where did she come from?" Jupiter demanded giving Universe a hard accusing look.
Serenity took another deep breath and went for it. "Until recently she was a huntress and the leader of a group of Space Warriors called the Star Raiders." she responded simply.
The girls had been surprised before but now they were amazed. Jupiter's eyes were now slits and Charon felt Estrella's body stiffening in her arms. Looking down at the kitten she saw a look of deep dismay on her small furry face.
"Estrella? Are you alright?" she whispered but Estrella could not reply for the fear that had seized hold of her tongue.
She could hardly believe what Queen Serenity had said.
Princess Universe was...a huntress?
One of those horrible people who chased animals in order to trap and then kill them for their meat?
The kitten felt cold prickles creeping up her spine - she had been so excited to meet the new Princess but now she was baffled and began to feel afraid.
Queen Serenity had said that Universe was a good person but how could she be if she was a huntress? And also Serenity had told them that Universe had saved her life on Min so was it possible that it was true? But how could someone be good and bad at the same time?
Feeling unsafe Estrella gave a tiny whimper that was heard by none of those on the platform with her but Charon. As she looked at the purple haired girl who stood with her back to her the kitten felt dreadfully frightened and wondered what was going to happen...
"I have my own reasons for this decision." Serenity went on as she saw the thoughts lurking in their eyes. "During the time I spent with Universe when I first met her I discovered that she possesses powers similar to your own. But more importantly I realised that she is truly good and that her spirit is as pure as snow. For these reason I have decided to bring her to be among those with who she belongs."
Universe was staring at her. She had been assuming that her past would be kept secret but instead she had told the princesses all about her.
Serenity did not seem to mind them knowing that she had once been a Space Fighter.
Universe felt a great weight lift from her shoulders. She had been dreading the other princesses asking her questions about herself and where she had come from and now that Serenity had removed the concern for her Universe felt weak with relief.
"I know that this must come as a great shock to all of you." Serenity was continuing. "But if you need reassurance of my words then look into her eyes."
Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Venus, Charon and her own daughter looked into Universe's eyes.
They all immediately recognised the glow in them. "Oh!" Venus exclaimed as she realised that she was gazing into what could have been her own eyes had they been brown. "Her eyes...they're almost the same but different!"
"I see that you all understand." Serenity nodded. "Now please listen to me all of you, I know that I can depend upon you all to take care of Universe and I have told you this so that you will know not to treat any differently from the rest of you. Can you do so?"
"Of course!" Venus beamed warmly after her surprise at the revelation had died down.
"You can trust us your majesty." Mercury replied - When she had looked into Universe's eyes Mercury had been struck by the pride and defiance she had seen there. But in them there was also a definite warmth and honesty - however the thing she noticed the most about Universe was the great sorrow in her eyes that seemed to forever drag her down.
Mercury didn't understand it but deep down she knew that she and Universe were very like each other.
The others all responded positively to Serenity's request and the Queen smiled pleased by the support they were giving her. "Thank you all. I knew that I could count on you." the Queen raised her voice so that the entire hall could hear her. "And now it is time for you all to know one another properly."
Indicating for Universe to follow her she led the newcomer over to where Venus stood. "Princess Venus I would like you to meet Princess Universe." Serenity said grandly.
Universe looked at the cheerful Princess of Venus who regarded her with great curiosity and interest. "Hi there." Universe said awkwardly speaking out loud for the first time since she had come into the Throne Room.
"It's nice to meet you Universe. I can't wait to hear about what it's like to be a Star Raider!" Venus replied eagerly. "Uh-huh?"
Universe wasn't looking forward to telling her.
"Next Princess Mars." Serenity led her over to Princess Mars.
Universe looked at Mars who gazed back at her questioningly trying to decide what to make of the newcomer. "Hey. How are ya?" Universe greeted her with a forced smile which was more a smirk.
"I'm fine. Thank you for asking." Mars replied politely but quietly. "And you yourself?"
"Fine, fine."
There's that relationship off to a flying start then... Universe thought as Serenity took her to meet Princess Charon.
"Princess Charon." Serenity announced as the two princesses stood and looked each other in the eyes.
Universe felt a jolt - at first she was shocked by the presence of the mythical Princess of Charon but that passed quickly...after all she'd been to places that none of the people around her would have believed and met some of the most incredible people who had ever lived so nothing ever really surprised her anymore.
What came next was much worse - as she realised the implications of the green-haired Princess being the heiress of the throne of the outer moon a familiar tight feeling seized hold of her stomach - a feeling that had been so close to her over the last year that it might as well have been a second heart. However she was keeping the green-haired Princess waiting and hastily she greeted her as she struggled with her own turmoil. "Glad to..." Universe's voice caught off as she caught Charon's gaze.
There was something strange about her eyes that she herself knew well for her own contained it as well - an elegance, a grace that she had never thought she would ever see again...that had been part of the reason for her initial speechlessness when she had first seen Serenity up close at on Min and now she could see that Charon knew it as well for the green-haired Princess' eyes widened as she saw the very same thing in Universe's eyes - the magical light that Universe had seen in those of the Queen of the Moon and now hers.
"Your eyes!" Charon gasped in disbelief. "I don't believe it! They're...!!!"
"Yeah." Universe nodded. "I've seen them as well."
Both Charon and Universe had met the Lyanore who dwelt on Charon in their glory and so their beauty was forever reflected in their eyes just as it was in the eyes of Queen Serenity.
Universe bestowed Charon with an enigmatic wink. "Tell ya later." she promised as Serenity took her over to Princess Jupiter.
Charon looked forward to it already and inwardly Universe could not help but feel a certain warmth towards her - as she had been led towards the Princess of the outer moon the first feelings that had gone through her mind had been fear. Already tonight she had felt a deep nervousness but she of all people knew that the two were not the same and in her own mind she'd had a fine reason to feel nervous about being in such close proximity to the heiress to the throne of Charon. After what she'd done... but shaking her head she realised that for some reason she could not feel the heavy weight of the guilt that had dragged her soul down every day since the last time she had ever been to the outer moon...something about that girl just seemed to disarm worries or guilt. It hadn't made the pain or feelings of responsibility for an evil thing go away but still...she did feel a little better for having met the Princess of Charon.
"This is Princess Jupiter." Serenity introduced her and hoped for the best. The Queen knew that if there was anyone who Universe may not take to it would be Jupiter. And her worst fears were proved to be well founded.
Universe looked at Jupiter and instantly her face darkened. Jupiter's face was cold and unfriendly as she stared indifferently at the newcomer.
"Hey." Universe said utterly deadpan.
"Hey." Jupiter responded with unconcealed hostility and Serenity's heart sank.
As she had feared and hoped against they had gotten off on the wrong foot right from the start. Jupiter didn't care for Universe's attitude and Universe cared even less for Jupiter's.
"Princess Mercury is next." she said tactfully taking Universe to meet Mercury.
Universe's eyes had narrowed into slits and she craned her head to remain in locked gazed with Jupiter who stared after her as she went.
Universe turned away to look at Mercury and in an instant she stared unable to tear her eyes away from her. Universe's first thought as she looked at the Princess of Mercury was that she was the most beautiful creature she had ever seen.
The Mercurian's face had an irresistible comeliness but this was not what attracted Universe to her. In comparison to Mercury, Universe thought that Queen Serenity's beauty was timeless and held a great sadness in it which was the main focus of her silken loveliness. Princess Mercury was quite different.
Mercury's beauty lay in her pure innocence. Goodness and kindness, the best natures of them all beamed from her face and her eyes were so shy that they were to put it plainly gorgeous.
Just thinking about this girl made Universe feel funny... "You're...beautiful." she heard herself say much to her own disbelief.
Mercury gave a start and her eyes widened in surprise. Whatever she had expected Universe to say to her it had not been this.
"I..." Mercury stammered as a light pink entered her cheeks. "That is I..."
Universe cursed herself for letting her tongue run away with her. Getting like that the way she had. She was acting like a barely pubic twelve year old for Gods sake!
Not only was Mercury lost for words and left floundering but also the other Princesses were now looking at her even stranger than before although she couldn't really say that she was bothered by what they thought she felt flummoxed beneath their stares.
Luckily Serenity came to their rescue. "And lastly my daughter the Moon Princess." Serenity led her to where her daughter stood last in line.
The Moon Princess looked carefully at Universe. She had heard tales about Space Fighters and had been surprised that her mother had decided to make their leader a Princess.
Because of the newcomer's background she was not sure whether or not she could really trust Universe. After all from what she had seen and heard of her so far Universe seemed very erratic in personality.
But then again her mother had said that she was a good person and she wouldn't have brought her here if she couldn't be trusted. Also she was the Princess of the Moon Kingdom and it wouldn't look good to the Courtiers if she seemed impolite to the newcomer. So as she stood face to face with Universe the Moon Princess smiled her most warm and welcoming smile at her.
"Welcome to the Moon Kingdom Princess Universe. I hope that you will be very happy here among us. We all do." she greeted her. "I would like it very much if we could become friends."
Queen Serenity felt a surge of pride in her daughter and she turned to see Universe's response.
As it happened however the Moon Princess needn't have bothered to make that effort at all for all the time Universe had been wrestling with a problem of her own. As Serenity had led her up to her Universe had told herself sternly that she would absolutely not, under any circumstances do a certain thing.
This order she now completely failed to obey. The temptation to disobey it was just far too great.
Universe's eyes slunk down to look at the Moon Princess's chest - Katarina had aroused her curiosity and it was just too strong to fight now that it was free.
Universe realized that the Moon Princess's chest was pretty flat compared to the other Princesses and herself...
Universe realized that she was staring at the Moon Princess's chest and she jerked her gaze back up to her face silently cursing Katarina as she did so. You did that you bitch! she growled inwardly.
Blissfully unaware of what Universe was thinking about the Moon Princess watched as the purple haired princess looked up her awkwardly realising that she had just been spoken to. "Er...sorry were you saying something?" Universe stammered.
The Moon Princess repeated her eloquent greeting though it must be said that it had lost most of its impact this time.
"Um yeah. Same here." Universe responded uncertainly.
Queen Serenity sighed inwardly. The whole thing had gone rather less than perfectly...still it was early days yet and time would tell whether or not Universe would build bridges with the princesses with who she had not gotten off to a good start with.
Then she decided to bring the princess to the front of the platform and once more formally announce the name of the latest princess of her court. Her nervousness gone Universe walked forward at once, her face totally free of her earlier turmoil.
Queen Serenity faced her subjects once more as she proclaimed in a voice that was quiet and yet carried all the way throughout the Throne Room.
"Princess Universe!"
"Hail Princess Universe!" the courtiers echoed and in the cries of applause that followed nobody noticed the little ginger kitten who slunk out of the chamber feeling terribly frightened.
~*~*~
Three hours onward…
The party had long since begun but Universe for whom the entire affair had been arranged was definitely not having any fun.
Universe was spending her evening stood over at the farthest side of the Ball Room trying to be invisible but this was not to be. As the new arrival she found that she had quickly become a figure of fascination and speculation since nobody present that night had ever heard about her.
Very soon after the party had begun Universe had started to hear her name mentioned in the whispered conversations that sprang up behind her back wherever she wandered. The young ladies were aflutter about a mysterious heartbreak in her past and many of the older women buzzed about the rumour that both of her parents had recently died and that Serenity had brought her here in order to groom her to be a Queen.
Many of the mothers and fathers with sons gave her speculative looks and several single girls and women shot her dark looks as she attracted interest among many men wherever she walked in the hall.
The nobility sure had overactive imaginations…
Universe found that no matter how hard she tried to avoid being noticed many people drifted over to her as the night got underway – all determined to talk to with her whether she liked it or not.
Many of them slyly slipped thinly veiled questions into their long drawn-out conversations – questions that were designed to make her reveal things about herself. Luckily she was clever enough to answer these questions in ways that confused the people who spoke to her or even avoided giving a straight answer altogether so she didn't find herself in trouble.
But Universe was quickly bored by the endless talking and even more annoyed by the many young men who approached her asking her to dance with them that night – she'd turned down several invitations to formal dinners and a ball and put a good few noses out of joint in doing so. And that hadn't been all – as she slowly walked around the hall she'd occasionally felt an urge to look over her shoulder. Her instincts, she realised, were warning her that she was being followed, stalked almost, but whenever she looked around she couldn't see anybody paying her any more attention than the rest of the courtiers – and they were all paying her a LOT. Anyway – it was probably only her imagination.
Yet for some reason she hadn't been able to feel quite sure – after all her instinct had served her well during her life on the trail so it was pretty hard to ignore by now. If she couldn't trust her own gut then what COULD she trust…?
The glasses of wine that she had glimpsed on a table had seemed like a spot of good, strong solace from her isolation from what was going on around her. However Xizor had clocked her and the very moment after she had picked up a glass of wine that would be sure to make her forget her troubles his hand had plucked it away from her before anybody else could notice what she was doing.
"The very idea!" the ambassador had remarked reprovingly as the new Princess had scowled ineffectively at him
After a while she was feeling so closed in by the huge amount of people gathered that she was desperate for a breath of cool fresh air – so desperate for some time to herself so that she could think without some noblewoman speaking to her non-stop – slipping hints about introducing her to her son who would be needing a bride now that he was nearly of age. As she looked around trembling like a caged animal for somewhere to escape to Venus homed in on her. "Are you alright?" she asked.
Universe glanced at the Venusian – she looked concerned. "Yeah." Universe muttered and then abruptly walked right past Venus – she'd spotted a pair of drapes that veiled a balcony outside the Ball Room and made for it like a bird flew for a tree in the middle of a storm.
The sudden manner of Universe's departure had surprised Venus and she even felt a little hurt as well. As she watched the purple-haired girl walking towards the drapes she wondered why she was so upset as she obviously was.
"Venus." Charon called as she walked up to the blonde princess who turned and was struck by the worry she saw in her friends face. "Have you seen Estrella anywhere?"
"No. Why?" Venus asked in concern. "Is she lost again?"
"I don't know…she slipped away from me while we were being introduced to Universe and I haven't seen her since!" charon sighed and shook her head. "Oh well – she'll turn up eventually! But I wish that I knew why she was acting so strangely…" snapping out of it she turned her eyes in the direction that Universe had slipped off into. "Speaking of Universe is there anything wrong with her? She still seems to be quite upset…"
"I must say that I don't know Charon." Venus replied worried about the new princess although she had not known her for very long. "She still seems to be very unhappy doesn't she?"
Charon nodded sympathetically as she thought about Universe. "Well she's bound to feel left out at first you know Venus. All of this must be a lot different than what she is used to you know." She said reasonably. "We must do our best to make her feel welcome."
"You are right Charon." The Moon Princess agreed as she and the other princesses approached them. "It is up to all of us to make Universe feel that she fits in with us."
"Let the good times roll." Jupiter muttered under her breath as she rolled her green eyes sarcastically.
Universe's eyes were calm but also empty of emotion as she stood at the edge of the balcony rail. But the only reason that her face was so vague was that the anxiety in her heart was bordering so near to panic that if she let herself in to it then she wouldn't be able to stop worrying until she'd gone out of her mind.
"I like this spot very much." A cheerful voice remarked lightly as its owner walked elegantly to join her at the rail. "It has such a wonderful view of the kingdom. Sometimes I spend hours here all alone with my own thoughts to keep me company."
Universe was sombre-faced as she looked up at Queen Serenity who stood by her side – the Queen's face was concerned and her eyes understanding as she gazed at the girl who she knew must be feeling overwhelmed with unhappiness and loneliness.
Serenity had seen Universe slinking away from the party and knowing that she must be feeling like a fish out of water she had decided to slip herself to have a talk with her alone.
"But what are you doing out here Universe?" Serenity asked kindly as the purple-haired girl turned to stare at the grand view again as if she were not there. "Is there anything the matter? Weren't you enjoying the party?"
Universe snorted. "Nah – that's just for girls." She replied disdainfully.
Queen Serenity gave her a very peculiar look. "But you ARE a girl Universe…" she murmured looking slightly puzzled.
Of course she knew very well what Universe was going through but she wanted the girl to tell her about it of her own choice. But it was too soon for that – Universe still didn't completely trust her.
"Why shouldn't I be here?" she retorted quietly. "Am I on a leash?"
Queen Serenity gazed at her and felt quite sad at her reluctance to confide in her – resolving to try again she smiled brightly "Come along now Universe – tell me what is troubling you. Or must I make it a royal decree?" she teased.
Universe lowered her eyes and did not reply. The smile on Queen Serenity's face grew sad – she did not like to see the purple-haired girl so unhappy and for a moment she found herself wondering if this had been such a good idea.
"It's alright Universe." She said and reached out and put her hand on Universe's slumped shoulder. "You don't have to do anything that you don't want. I know how hard this must all be for you but I promise that it will grow easier with time. But please remember that if you ever need somebody to talk to I will always be here for you. I understand how you feel and if you decide that you want it then I will help you."
Universe stared at her. "Glad to hear it…now umm, explain to me exactly what you meant back there." She said coolly. "What's the whole 'you're now in charge of me' thing all about?"
It had been bothering her ever since Serenity had said it – to her the Queens announcement had sounded like a declaration of ownership and even though she didn't think that she would take advantage of such an arrangement Universe didn't like being considered somebody else's charge. It felt like losing a small but important part of her freedom and she didn't like it one bit…
Serenity frowned slightly as she detected the sassiness in Universes voice – she predicted that there would surely be a few problems lying in wait for the new Princess during the first couple of days of her new life here. "That is not a very polite question Universe." She remarked plainly.
"But I'd say that it's a pretty good one." Universe replied stubbornly with a defiant look. "Why don't you answer it?
Queen Serenity frowned – it was obvious that this girl was going to be difficult and she hoped that she would not have to discipline her at any point. "You must learn the ways of a Princess now Universe." she told the purple-haired girl in a gentle but firm voice. "You live in a different world now…a different way of life. Don't worry for I am sure that you will grow accustomed to everything in time...don't rush yourself while you are still learning."
For a while the two stood quietly at the rail – but as she and Universe stood looking out at the enchanting view of the Moon Kingdom Serenity's mind was occupied by the worry of something that she had noticed earlier…
Deciding to discuss the troubling matter that had been on her mind from that very moment she looked at Universe again and this time her face was grave. "I would like to ask you something Universe and I would like you to answer me truthfully." Her tone was not severe but it was definitely stern. "Do you drink?"
Universe thought carefully about how she'd respond to this – she realized that her host had spotted the disagreement between herself and Xizor earlier and made an accurate guess that lying would be a big mistake. "I enjoy the occasional jar." she said stolidly.
Serenity pursed her lips and now her expression did become severe. "Well I must ask you not to touch anymore alcohol until you are very much older." She said in a voice that sounded more like she was giving Universe an unofficial command. "Is that clear?"
Universe stared at her in disbelief but she could see that the Queen was not joking – so what, now she couldn't even drown her sorrows?
"I am waiting Universe." Serenity added patiently yet her voice made it perfectly clear that she expected an answer.
Universe clenched her teeth and for a moment she came closer to saying something she might have regretted very much later on – so she was astonished when she sulkily muttered, "Whatever."
Serenity gazed carefully at her wondering whether she could trust her to keep to her word – Universe was inwardly trembling with anger.
Today she'd lost her spear, her clothes, her comrades, her name, her freedom to go where she wanted and now her freedom to do as she chose – if this was what being a Princess meant then she already hated it.
"Good." Serenity eventually said with a pleased smile. "I am grateful Universe…truly I am. Really it will not be the loss that you imagine it to be. Drinking is very bad for a girl your age – trust me Universe."
Universe didn't say a thing and sighing inwardly Serenity realized that she felt resentment towards her – perhaps even a trace of bitterness. The Lunarian hoped that it would not last for long but she didn't think badly of Universe for feeling the way she did – change was always difficult and this girl had been brought up very unusually so she was willing to make allowances for her.
Universe still didn't say anything but she raised her eyes again and met her own and Serenity smiled at her. "Are you tired?" she asked gently. "Would you like to go to bed now Universe?"
Universe nodded at once – relieved at the chance to leave the Ball Room and be entirely alone to think about all this without a million people breathing down her neck.
"Very well – you may go." Serenity said with a nod. "I arranged for a room to be prepared for you. Shall I have somebody take you to it?"
Universe shook her head vigorously. "Nah – just tell me where I can find it." She said embarrassed at the idea of being taken to bed like a child.
Serenity nodded accepting her wish and gave her the directions that would lead her to her bedroom. "I hope that you like it Universe." She said pleasantly. "If you find anything that you don't like then simply let me know I will have it changed tomorrow."
Universe nodded and turned to walk away – but at the last minute she stopped and turned back to face the Queen again. "Why are you doing this?" she just came out with it like that. "Why? I could be a threat to you… How can you trust me just like that? You barely even know me!"
Serenity's face was calm and patient as Universe stared at her waiting for an answer. When she spoke her voice was clear and firm but what she said calmed Universe. "Well you risked your life to save mine for a start – that in my opinion makes you trustworthy Universe. And from what I have seen of you I think that you are a good person." She paused for a moment and then continued. "As for barely knowing you – well when you have known as many girls of your age as I have you grow to recognize certain things in them Universe. And when you have children of your own one day…"
Universe practically jumped and gave an appalled gasp. "I'M not gonna have kids!" she exclaimed, her face a picture of pure shock.
Queen Serenity resisted the urge not to burst into laughter at the horrified expression on Universe's face. "Oh? Well...I suppose that YOU know best Universe ." She smiled.
As the Queen gazed cheerfully at her distant Kingdom the purple-haired girl stared at her, deep suspicion in her eyes. "Queen Serenity..."
"Yes Universe?"
"I am NOT having kids!"
"Yes Universe...I heard you." Serenity replied demurely, fighting to keep herself from chuckling at Universe' assertiveness and defensiveness on the subject.
Universe stared at the Lunarian, her eyes glaring though a hint of nervousness was slowly creeping into her expression - suddenly she no longer felt so sure.
"Well now…I have kept you talking for long enough now. I am sure that you are feeling tired now Universe. Feel free to go at any time."
For a moment longer Universe stared at her and then she sighed and turned to leave. However Serenity called after her one final time. "Oh and Universe?"
Universe turned back again. "Yeah?"
The Queen gazed fondly at her as she took in ever aspect of her new appearance. "Goodnight." She told her affectionately.
Universe half turned away. "Yeah." She replied over her shoulder and then turned and walked away.
Alone now Serenity watched with a smile on her face as Universe left. "Universe…" she spoke her new charges name quietly as she turned to look at the beauty of the horizon and thought about her.
"Here she comes everyone!" Venus whispered in excitement as Universe came back into view walking past the drapes.
"Alright – let's do this everyone." The Moon Princess ordered the others as Universe walked near to them, As Universe approached they smiled welcomingly at her – even Jupiter though her smile looked especially strained.
"Oh Universe!" the Moon princess began sweetly as she stepped towards her. "We were just thinking that perhaps you would like…"
Universe cut her short. "Can't talk now – tired." She snapped.
Before the Moon Princess could even blink she strode past them and out of the Ball Room. "Oh…" was all that the Princess of the Moon kingdom could think of to say as they stared after her speechlessly.
As the princesses stood almost dazed by Universe's coldness towards them Queen Serenity walked over to them having seen it all. "Do not think too harshly of her." She said to them quietly. "She has only just arrived and is sure to feel distant towards all of us in the beginning."
"She's horrible!" Jupiter blurted out angrily. "Why should we have to put up with her when she carries on like that?"
Serenity just sighed and did not answer the heated question – there was only so much she could do, she realised, she would have to let the Princesses handle this problem by themselves if they were ever going to accept the newcomer of their own choice.
For the last few seconds since Universe had walked out of the hall the Moon princess had stood in silence. Nobody had ever cut her off so rudely and she had found herself at a total loss at first…
Then suddenly, without really knowing why she did it she walked away from the others and out of the Ball-Room to follow Universe – she wanted to speak with her rather than leaving it like this.
As she walked into the corridor she caught sight of the new girl walking towards the doors that led out into the courtyard. "Universe." She called out to the purple-haired girl who stopped and turned around when she heard her voice.
Universe saw her and raised her eyebrows as she wondered what the Moon princess could want from her. As she hurried up to Universe who stayed quiet the Moon Princess clasped both her hands together and spoke from her heart.
"I know that you did not enjoy yourself very much tonight." She said kindly as she did her duty as the Princess of the Moon Kingdom. "But all of us are happy to have you with us you know Universe."
Universe gave a bitter smirk. "Mmmmmm…RIGHT." She replied smoothly as she resisted the impulse to roll her eyes. "Well I've gotta turn in now…nighty-night your highness."
"Why are you so cold?" the Moon Princess suddenly exclaimed right out of the blue. "Why are you so determined to keep your distance when all that I want to do is talk to you?"
Universe felt incensed as she stared at the girl who had accosted her in exasperation. "Better question kitten – why do you want to?" she snapped. "I just cut you blank back there! If I were you I'd have said 'the hell with her' and let it go at that! Why come after me?"
The Moon princess felt taken aback by the anger in the other girl's eyes but she stayed calm in the face of it as she thought of her response. "It is my duty as Princess of the Moon Kingdom to ensure that you find my home a pleasant place to live." She eventually explained.
"Yeah well – you won't have to bother about that for long so don't worry." Universe replied coldly.
"What do you mean?"
"I won't be here for long – in fact I give it a day or two at the most before you're fed up to your back teeth with me!" Universe explained as she turned away. "All clear?"
Before the Moon princess could say another word Universe swung around and walked away without looking back. "I'm still going to try." The Moon Princess called after her though the purple-haired girl showed no sign of whether or not she heard her.
The Moon princess watched sadly as she left – she felt concerned about Universe since she didn't like to see anybody so miserable. Though she felt very awkward around her because of her background the Princess of the Moon Kingdom made a promise to the purple-haired Princess as she stood alone in the corridor.
The vow was that she would do everything she could to help Universe settle into her new home and try to understand her and accept her for who she was. And who knew? Perhaps one day Universe might even smile at her and call her 'friend'.
Who could say...? All things no matter how unlikely they seemed were after all possible...