Hey people! I'm back with the next chapter in 'Ladies-in-Waiting' I
just want to thank everyone who has reviewed my story so far. I've never
gotten so much feedback in my life!! Thanx! Oh, yeah, BenRG, I am a HUGE
fan of Anne McCafferey. Let me apologize for not putting in a lot of Rei.
She's not my favorite character, and I have a tendency to leave her out.
There won't be much of her in this chapter either. *Rubs hands together
gleefully* I've got something in store for her.
Thank you to: Ocianne, CrAzYlAdY Surukain (Crazy heifer, love ya!), girl of darkness (one of coolest people), cuttie-blossom, guardianmercury (another cool person), Kaiya, ~~@NGELBLOOD~~, Rei- leigh, BenRG (always honest, but if you're looking for something on the sci-fi side, it isn't going to be in this story.), Izzy (a sweetie), Flame Stardattir, JupiterAi(another nice person), Nicole (very nice as well), Tenshi (I mentioned your name again!), looneygirl (Ah, the wonderful, unsanitary figments of my imagination), Jovian Goddess (a sweetie as well), and three reviewers who were anonymous.
Disclaimer: I don't own anything, so you can't sue! Take that reptiles, I mean, lawyers!
Chapter Summary: It's the day after the Beltane Ball, and Endymion notices how strange his Generals are acting. Meanwhile, Hotaru has a talk with Rubeus. Rei asks about Jadeite's strange behavior. Serenity and Kunzite have a nice long talk. Lita and Jadeite are spending a lot of time together, which makes a few people suspicious. Ami plays a fun little game, with an interesting prize.
Chapter 3-Emotions
It was the day after the ball, and Mina was just getting up. Her eye was a little sore, but because of Hotaru, there was no visible effect. She leaned over her bed and playfully shook Rei awake.
"Rei, wakey, wakey!"
Rei retaliated by attacking her sister with a pillow. Mina valiantly tried to strike back, but overshot her distance and hit Lita. Lita shot up and began attacking Rei with her pillow. Soon, a full-on pillow fight was underway. Ami slept through most of it, until Lita hit her in the stomach with a cushion. Then she and Mina double teamed Lita and Rei. When Serenity walked in, all four girls were out of breath and red-faced.
Serenity giggled. "By all means, don't stop on my account!" She said, grabbing a pillow and belting Rei in the mouth. The pillow fight continued until Mildred came in to fetch the queen at around noon.
"Your Highness, the king requires your presence."
Serenity stood and began pulling feathers from her hair. "Go and tell milord that I will be there shortly." Mildred bowed and left and Serenity turned to her new friends. "Don't just stand there; help me get these feathers out of my hair!" Everyone crowded around the queen and began plucking feathers from her silvery hair. She was soon presentable, and she left to see what was going on.
Endymion was sitting in one of the war rooms, thinking. Serenity glided over to him and placed a kiss on his forehead. "You seem to be deep in thought."
"It's my generals, Usako. By the way, I sent a messenger to the Wiessman estate, and told them that the Baron is dead."
Serenity nodded. There had been no love lost between her and the former Baron. "What about them?"
"They're always so lonely."
"Jadeite? Surely not!"
"Even Jadeite. But today, something seems different."
"How so, love?"
"Zoicite seems more cheerful than usual, Kunzite has a look of utter confusion on his face, Jadeite has that smirk on his face he gets whenever something good is about to happen to him, and Nephrite won't leave the astronomy tower. Something is wrong."
Serenity giggled. "I bet I know what is wrong with Kunzite and Zoicite."
"What, Usako?"
Serenity leaned close to her husband, and lowered her voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "I do believe they have crushes on people."
"Usako, love, I trust your insight, but Kunzite?"
"I will talk to him, and by the end of the day, I will be able to tell you for sure. Zoicite, I'm positive about, but were I you, I'd make sure Nephrite gets fed. It sounds like he's close to discovering a new constellation or planet. You know how he gets when that happens."
Endymion chuckled. "Remember the time he was certain he had found a new planet, only to discover that Jadeite had left dust on his telescope lens?"
Serenity giggled again. "How could I forget? It took Jadeite weeks to get all of that tar out of his hair." She kissed her husband and left. She strolled down to the training area, where Kunzite was trying to kill a dummy. "Kunzite, you do realize that it can't fight you back, right?"
Kunzite stopped and bowed to the petite woman. "Of course, Your Majesty. I just need to stay in shape." Kunzite had a special soft spot for the younger woman, and they had a special friendship.
"For the last time, Kunz-chan, call me Usagi, or Sere. None of this 'Majesty' stuff."
"Sorry, Yo-Usagi, it slipped."
"Don't let it happen again." Serenity said, jabbing Kunzite in the stomach playfully. "What's wrong? You seem more distracted than usual."
"How so?"
"Well, you've been attacking that same dummy for quite a while, and it's arms, legs, and head have all been chopped off, yet you still attack it."
Kunzite seemed to notice the dilapidated dummy for the first time. "I guess I am just a little preoccupied."
"With what? Tailona has not had any wars or major problems, and you and the other generals are quite respected by your soldiers. What's left to be preoccupied with?" Serenity probed gently. She led Kunzite over to a bench.
"I don't know. Usagi, can I trust you with a secret?"
Serenity took Kunzite's large tanned hand in her small white one. "Of course. What is troubling your mind, big brother?"
"It's the Lady Mina. Every time I'm around her; I get this funny feeling in my chest."
"What's it feel like?"
"A big bubble. I can't explain it. It makes me want to be around her. Last night, I actually wanted to run my fingers through her hair."
"Oh, Kunz-chan." Serenity said softly. "Maybe you should get to know her a little better. She's quite a nice person."
"But that's just it, Usagi; I don't want to get to know her."
"Why not?" Kunzite turned and faced Serenity. She gasped. "You're afraid of her!"
Kunzite buried his face in his hands. "Usagi, I can't afford to feel like this."
"Why not? Everyone is meant to be loved." She said softly, stroking his silvery hair.
"I can't do this, Usagi, I just can't."
"Kunzite, why are you so scared of her?"
"I don't want to love someone, and have them not return it."
"How can you be so sure that you love her; for that matter, how can you be so sure she hates you?"
"I just am."
"Kunzite, you are no Eros. How do you know how she feels if you've never even talked to her?"
"I can just tell. It's the way she distances herself from me."
Serenity put a hand over her mouth to keep a chuckle from escaping. "Kunz-chan, it's not her distancing herself from you; it's you distancing yourself from her!"
"I did not distance myself from her."
"Yes you did, I watched you. If you had been any further apart, I would have thought you hated her."
"I just don't know how to act around her."
"The same way you act around me, of course! Honestly, are all men as simple-minded as you and Endy-chan?"
"What am I supposed to say?"
"Try, 'Lady Mina, may I show you around the palace?'."
"What if she says 'no'?"
"Then she says 'no', and you come tell me, so I can have a talk with her."
Kunzite ran his fingers through his hair thoughtfully. Then he stood resolutely. "You're right, of course Usagi. I'll go talk to her right now." He made as if to leave, but a ladylike cough from Serenity stopped him.
"Kunz-chan, you may want to take a shower first. And after that, you might want to put on some decent clothes, and comb your hair." She suggested, ticking points off on her fingers.
Kunzite bowed to Serenity respectfully. "Thanks Usagi." He left. Serenity watched him fondly, and then left to find Zoicite. She found him, in the library, playing a game with Ami. She hid behind a shelf to watch.
"So you say you have never played this before, Lady Ami?" Zoicite asked as he moved one of his black pieces.
"I've never heard of it until now. It sounds a little like a game we have in Nabol called Junga." She replied, taking one of her clear pieces and moving it carefully to the top of the stack.
"It's almost spelled the same isn't it? Junga and Jenga."
"They're probably the same game, just played a little differently."
Zoicite rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "You know, Lady Ami, I'm not one to gossip, but I believe that my brother has a crush on one of your sisters."
"Really? Who?"
"I'm torn between the Ladies Mina and Rei, but I believe it is Lady Mina."
"That's funny." Ami said thoughtfully.
"How so, Lady?" Zoicite asked, moving another piece.
"If someone even says a word that begins with the letter 'K', Mina sighs, and is in a reverie for about five minutes."
"Do you think they like each other?"
"Forgive my brazenness General Zoicite, but am I winning this game?" Ami replied slyly.
Zoicite looked up then, directly into Ami's eyes and smiled, making Ami's head spin. "It seems I was mistaken about you, milady."
"How so, General?" Ami replied, back to her normal, bashful self.
"There is quite a mastermind lurking underneath that shy exterior. Do you know anything of battle tactics, Lady Ami?"
"No, but I think one day I should very much like to learn." Ami said, blushing slightly.
"Well, after I win, perhaps I could show you how I plan battle strategies?"
"You mean after I win, General Zoicite." Ami replied.
"I believe I was right the first time, milady."
"I do not think so." Ami said as she moved another piece.
"Would you care to make a wager on that, milady?" Zoicite asked mischievously.
"A lady does not make wagers, General."
"Well, this is just a friendly competition, so a wager would be quite proper."
"What kind of wager?"
"A small one, milady. If I win, I get a kiss from you. If you win, you may have whatever you wish from me." Zoicite smiled; he and Jadeite had worked out this plan to the letter. Zoicite was quite confident of his powers in the game.
"Well, I think it would be fair, considering I'm going to win."
"So you agree, milady?"
Ami stuck out her hand. "I agree, General Zoicite." They shook on it.
"And what is your wish?"
"I'll tell you after I win." Ami said confidently. She moved another piece. "Your move." She said, raising a delicate brow.
Zoicite smiled at her and moved a piece, causing the whole structure to come crashing down. He looked shocked. "I've never lost a game in my life!"
Ami giggled. "That, my dear General Zoicite, is because you've never played against me."
Zoicite stood and offered a gentlemanly hand to help Ami out of her chair. "Your wish, milady?"
Ami flung her arms around Zoicite's neck and kissed him hard. She fled, leaving Zoicite dumbfounded. Serenity giggled, and moved to the astronomy tower to talk to Nephrite. By the time she had climbed the stairs, she was winded, and had to take a couple minutes to regain her breath. After she had done so, she tapped on the door.
"Go away!"
"Nephrite, I wouldn't say things like that. You never know who is on the other side of the door." Serenity retorted. Nephrite opened the door.
"I apologize, my queen, but I thought it was Jadeite coming to annoy me again." He said, standing back to let her in the room. She went in, and looked around at the piles of papers everywhere before deciding to stand.
"What has Jadeite been annoying you about?"
"Lady Lita and how wonderful she is."
"Well, she is a wonderful person."
"I know that."
"Then why don't you talk to her?"
"She doesn't like me."
"How do you know?"
"She told me herself."
Serenity winced. "Oh. Well, what did you do to her to make her so mad?"
"I kissed her yesterday."
"And why did you do that?"
"Because she's the most beautiful woman I have ever seen." Nephrite gave a love-struck sigh.
"Have you told her that?"
"How can I? She'll probably kill me." Nephrite leaned on the window, and looked out into the horizon.
"Why don't you write her a letter?"
"And say what? 'Lita, I've fallen in love with you in just two days?' Yeah, that'd work."
"You don't have to sign it. Be a Secret Admirer. And you can fall in love with someone in two days. You saw what happened with me and Endymion. We fell in love at first sight."
"I still don't know. I mean, what if she figures it out?"
"Then maybe she won't be so bad."
"I doubt it."
Serenity picked up a piece of paper. "Nephrite del Winters! If you don't snap out of it and write what you feel, I'll hit you with my shoe." She said, taking a quill pen, and handing both the pen and paper to him.
"What am I to say?"
"Try, 'Dear Lady Lita, I love you. You have only been at the palace for two days, yet I feel as though I have loved you for a long time. From the first time I saw you; I have been enchanted with your beauty, elegance, and kindness. I can only hope that someday I can tell you about my feelings in person, and that you will accept them. Your Secret Admirer.'"
Nephrite was scribbling down the last bit. "Do you think she'll like it?"
"She'll love it."
"How am I supposed to get it to her?"
"Have Jadeite deliver it to her. He and Lady Lita are quite close."
"A little too close if you ask me." Nephrite grumbled.
Serenity raised an eyebrow. "Jealous, my dear General?"
"No, just hoping they don't have a thing going. I hate being made a fool of."
"They don't. Jadeite is completely and totally stuck on Lady Rei."
"She seems a little too stuck-up for my taste." Nephrite said.
"She's a perfectly nice girl; you're just too hooked on Lita to see that. Now, give me the letter, and I'll take it to Jadeite for him to give to Lita." Serenity said, holding out her hand. Nephrite handed her the paper, and she left.
Mina was in the sewing room, rolling bandages. Trista was sitting beside her, sketching outfits for the winter ball, which was no time soon, but the outfits had to be ready and waiting by next month. Mildred came in the door and bowed to Trista. "Princess, Lady. Lady Mina, there's a man waiting for you outside." Mina put down the bandages and stood, completely mystified. She looked at Trista, who shrugged. Mina shrugged back and went outside.
"General Kunzite, to what do I owe this visit?" Mina asked, curtsying slightly.
Kunzite bowed. "It has occurred to me that you have not had a proper tour of our palace yet, Lady Mina. I came to offer my services as a tour guide." He said. {Let her say yes, let her say yes!} He thought.
"I would very much like to see the rest of the palace. It is most kind of you to offer, General." {Ohmigod! He wants to show me around! My hair, is my hair okay? What about my face? Please don't let anything be on my face.} She panicked internally.
Kunzite offered her his arm. "Is there any place you would prefer to start at?" {Why the hell am I losing my mind about this? She's just a girl. A beautiful, funny, sweet, perfect...Damn, there I go again.}
"Why don't we start right here?" Mina suggested. {Don't let anything be in between my teeth, don't let me make a fool of me. Please, Cynthia don't let me do anything foolish!} Mina thought. {I wonder what he looks like when he's working out. He's got the body of a god already. All those wonderful muscles.} Mina's face flamed.
"Is something the matter, milady?" Kunzite asked, noticing the color of her face.
"Nothing, General, nothing at all."
"Very well. This is the ladies wing of the palace. As you know, it contains a sewing room, living quarters, and a training ground." Kunzite said, leading her down a hall.
"A training ground? For ladies?"
"Why yes of course. The king believes that everyone who wants to learn to fight should be able to, regardless of their age or gender."
"Could we see it?" Mina inquired.
"Of course milady." Kunzite led Mina to the training grounds, which were encircled by hedges. Over in the far corner, a very nice assembly of weapons was arranged. Mina practically ran over and began looking over the swords. She hefted a slim-bladed rapier, and ran her fingers over the hilt in wonder. She twisted it into a warrior's salute, getting the feel of the weapon. Kunzite watched as Mina began fighting an invisible enemy. {She's good.} The sun shone down on Mina's person, illuminating her hair and face. {She's beautiful. She could put the goddess of beauty to shame.}
"General, would you care to practice?" Mina called.
"If milady wishes." Kunzite said. He walked over to the weapons array and chose the biggest heaviest sword he could find. Since these weapons were made for ladies, the sword was of the perfect weight. He twisted it experimentally, and took up the en garde position. Mina did so as well, and there was a resounding clang as their swords clashed. As they fought, Kunzite's opinion of Mina raised quite a bit. She was attacking him, one of the best sword fighters in the country, with one arm behind her back. Kunzite assumed the same position, and had to hurriedly throw up a block as Mina went for his throat. He counterattacked by swinging low at her legs. She used her sword to raise his, and raised an eyebrow.
"Had enough?"
"Never, milady." Kunzite replied, thrusting at her stomach. Mina retaliated by lashing out with her foot, and knocking Kunzite on his back. She pointed her sword at his throat.
"I win." Mina said simply. Kunzite jumped off the ground, breathing a little hard.
"Milady, I have never been beaten in sword fight before. You are truly a formidable fighter." Kunzite said, bowing to her respectfully.
"I've never had to fight that hard in my life." Mina replied, curtsying. "I would much like a shower before we continue our tour, if you have no objections, General."
"I have no objections milady. Shall we meet back here in an hour?"
"An hour would be just fine, General." The couple went their separate ways. Mina ran into her and her sisters' room, and began looking through the closets. Ami was lying on her bed, writing in a journal that Serenity had given her.
"Mina, what's the matter?"
"I have to meet Kunzite in an hour, and I don't know what to wear or anything!"
Ami smiled, and pushed Mina in the direction of the bathroom. "You go take your bath. I'll be in to wash your hair in a minute. I'll pick out your outfit and do your hair and make-up." Mina smiled gratefully at her sister and went into the bathroom. Ami went to the closet, and pulled out a dress Rei had found. Rei had been meaning to have the hem taken up, because it was a few inches too long for her, which meant it'd be perfect for Mina. The dress was pale lavender-blue satin that was supposed to cling tight to the chest and tie with a thin white ribbon, and then flare out to softly touch the ground. The sleeves were sheer, and fit tightly until they got to the wrists, where they tied with thin white ribbons, and flared out gently. The neckline was a low scoop. Ami laid the dress on Mina's bed, and went into the bathroom to wash her sister's hair.
"Mina, you're tense. Calm down." Ami soothed as she ran her shampoo-y fingers through Mina's hair.
"What if he doesn't like me?"
"He must, or else he would not have asked to show you around."
"He probably thinks he has to because I'm his gift!"
"I highly doubt he thinks of you as his 'gift'." Ami said, pouring water over her sister's hair. Mina stood up, and Ami wrapped her in a big soft towel. She draped another over Mina's head. "Now, I want you to dry your hair and body, and then come out of the bathroom and put on the dress." Ami ordered.
"I hope I don't run out of time." Mina panicked.
"You won't if you do what I tell you to." Ami said calmly. She walked out of the bathroom, and Mina grabbed the hot-air blower. It was some Tailon invention that helped dry hair faster. It was a small fire, with a fan that blew the air onto the hair. It only took her twenty minutes to dry her hair. When she was through, she stepped out of the bathroom.
"Where's my dress?" She asked. Ami held it up, and Mina began to dress. Ami helped button up the back, and then began attacking her sister's hair. After all the tangles and knots were out, she took a pale lavender bow and tied back the sides of Mina's hair. Mina smoothed out the front of her dress nervously. "Ami, be honest, do I look alright?"
Ami's eyes were wide. Mina was a credit to the dress, instead of the dress being a credit to Mina. If Kunzite was any kind of man, he'd fall out. "Mina, you are beautiful."
"You said you'd do my make-up." Mina frantically reminded, glancing out of the window at the sun. "I've only got fifteen minutes!"
"Calm down, sister, calm down. Sit on the bed, and I'll get started." Ami carefully applied some peach lip color, and swept a bit of lavender eye shadow on Mina's lids. She stepped back to admire her work. "Mina, you are gorgeous." She said softly, leading Mina to the mirror.
Mina stared at the reflection. Only when the reflection brought its hands up to its cheeks in surprise did Mina realize that the goddess in the mirror was *her*. "Cynthia, Ami, I look beautiful."
"You were already beautiful; I just added a little touch here and there."
"Whenever you want to impress Zoicite; let me handle it, alright?"
"You don't have to." Ami said, blushing a bit as she remembered what happened earlier that day.
"I want to." Mina gave her sister a kiss on the cheek and left.
Rei was in the gardens, observing the flowers. She came to a fork in the path, and heard a twig crack down one of them. She decided to take the other one. The path meandered quite a bit, with many forks, and soon Rei became completely lost. She attempted to backtrack to no avail. She heard a rustle, and turned around to ask for directions.
"Lady Rei, what are you doing here?" General Nephrite asked.
"I wanted to admire the flowers, but I got lost."
"I see. I come down here often to think. As I'm sure you've noticed, it's very peaceful. Would you like to accompany me back to the palace?"
"Please." Rei said gratefully. Nephrite extended an arm to her and they took off. Rei noticed that Nephrite took only the left forks of the path. Soon they were back at the garden entryway.
"You see, milady, to get back to the palace you keep left at all the forks."
"I didn't realize what I was doing." Rei said, smiling sheepishly.
Nephrite smiled gently. "It's okay. A lot of people do it. I could show you a different path, if you'd like to go."
Rei nodded and took the proffered arm. Together, she and Nephrite wandered around. They had just passed a fountain that spouted purple water, when they heard voices. Throwing Nephrite a mischievous wink, Rei hid behind a bush to hear what the people were saying.
"What I'm trying to say, Lady, is that I, um..."
"You what, Lord Rubeus?" Nephrite stiffened as the gentle voice of his adopted sister drifted towards him. Rei sensed Nephrite tense, and placed a warning hand on his shoulder.
"Leave them be. Rubeus really likes her." Nephrite gave her a short nod.
"Well, you see, Lady Hotaru, I really admire you, and am very fond of you." Rubeus said softly.
"I am fond of you too Lord."
"And I was hoping that perhaps I could, with the permission of our monarchs and General Nephrite, court you."
"Me?"
Rubeus' soft chuckle was barely audible. "Yes you."
"Why me?"
"You're sweet, smart, kind, and lovely young woman. How could I even look at anyone else?"
If Rei stood on her tiptoes, she could just barely see the couple. Hotaru was sitting against on Rubeus' jacket, leaning against a tree, and Rubeus was sitting near a small lake. Hotaru was blushing furiously.
"I would like that very much." Hotaru murmured. Rubeus looked towards her in surprise.
"Really?" Rubeus stood and walked over to the tree. Hotaru's reply was a small nod. Rei smiled. Rubeus reached in his pocket and pulled out something, which he fastened around Hotaru's neck.
"Oh, thank you, Rubeus. It's beautiful." Hotaru said, smiling up at him. He turned red.
"It's nothing; just something so you'll remember me." He said, becoming very interested in the ground. Rei jerked her head at Nephrite, and they left.
"General, are you and General Jadeite good friends?"
"Yes, I consider him a close friend. Why, milady?"
"Does he dislike me?"
"Not that I know of, milady. Why do you ask?"
"I've seen him three times today, and each time, he bows to me, without smiling, or showing any change of expression. If I'm with Lita, then he becomes more jovial, but he's still cold towards me."
"It sounds quite unusual for him, but I will make an inquiry, and try to find out. Is there any particular reason milady is interested?"
"No, General, just wondering."
Nephrite nodded wisely. "I'll bring it up at training. Jadeite usually does not dislike someone unless they give him a specific reason not to."
"Oh." Rei murmured. She and Nephrite continued their walk, unaware of the pair of azure blue eyes and the pair of emerald green eyes that watched them.
Mina walked slowly onto the training grounds, shading her eyes as she glanced around for Kunzite. A slight cough caused her to whirl around.
"Oh! General Kunzite! I didn't hear you." Mina said, blushing. She dropped a curtsey. The sun was behind her, casting a glow upon her body. The sun illuminated the satin of her dress, and cast a golden sheen on her hair. Kunzite caught his breath, but quickly regained control of himself.
"I apologize, milady, for startling you. Would you like to continue our tour?" Kunzite asked, bowing and extending a hand to her.
"Yes, I would." Mina said, threading her arm through his. They entered the hallway and began walking. "General, Lady Hotaru tells me you are a Shinto priest-in-training."
"Not exactly, milady. I do meditate in front of the Sacred Fire once a day, but only because I find it relaxing. I am not interested in becoming a priest."
"Oh? Swearing off women too much for you?" Mina asked lightly. She stopped dead in her tracks, looking horrified. Her hand covered her mouth in astonishment. "Oh, no. I cannot believe I just said that." Her face was a furious shade of red that even shy Ami would envy. "I do apologize General. I should think before I speak." Mina said. Kunzite had his back to her, and she thought his posture was a little angry-looking. He turned.
"It's quite alright, milady." Kunzite said, the corners of his mouth turning up slightly.
"Is that a half-smile, I see, General?" Mina asked, her own megawatt smile forming slowly.
"It might be milady. You are an amusing person, very different from anyone I've ever met."
"Is that a good amusing, or a bad amusing?" Mina asked.
"Rest assured, milady, that it's a good amusing." Kunzite reassured, stepping closer to her.
Mina made an impossibly cute face that involved her nose scrunching up in an absolutely adorable way. That same face had involuntarily gotten Mina three marriage proposals before she was fifteen. "That's good. Now, if I could only make you laugh, I could consider my mission complete."
Kunzite raised an eyebrow. "Your mission is to make me laugh?"
"Of course. I like seeing people happy; it makes me happy."
"I see. You feel like you have to make me laugh?" Kunzite asked, stepping still closer to Mina. He had no clue how to approach a woman, so he was trusting his gut.
Mina winked at him. "You're handsome when you don't smile, so I bet you'll be a complete god when you do." Her face flamed again as she realized what she said. She covered her face with one hand. "I did it again." She muttered. A sudden sound made her look up in surprise. Kunzite was laughing.
"You really are an amusing woman."
"I think you should call me Mina." She said, after her face had gone back to her proper color. She and Kunzite were toe-to-toe.
"Then call me Kunzite."
"Don't you have a nickname?"
"No."
"Well, I think I'll call you...Z."
"Z, Mina?"
"What's wrong with Z?" Mina asked defensively.
Kunzite shrugged quickly to appease her. "Nothing. You may refer to me as Z if you wish."
"Good." Mina was staring up into Kunzite's eyes. She closed her eyes, and debated on whether or not she should carry out what she wanted to do. Kunzite solved that problem for her. He bent his head down and pressed his lips to hers. Mina barely had time to savor the kiss when he separated from her, and walked away. Mina stared after him in utter astonishment. "Maybe I shouldn't have said what I did. Now what?" Mina turned and walked away into the opposite direction. She passed the throne room, and heard quiet voices. Her curiosity got the better of her, and she leaned on the door to listen.
"Endy, I wish to make a request of you."
"Yes, Trista?"
"I want to marry Lord Demando."
"Does he feel the same way?"
"Yes; we had a long talk before I came here. I love him, very much."
"How can you be sure he feels the same way?"
"Endy!"
"Well? I don't want you to marry some power-hungry lord who just wants to use you to get closer to the throne. I want you to be sure he loves you."
"I thought you trusted him." Trista's voice was quiet, and Mina could barely hear her.
"I do trust him, in matters of state. Matters concerning my only sister's heart are a different story entirely."
"I've known him for twenty years. I think I know his feelings quite well."
"But how can you be sure?" Endymion persisted.
"Serenity thinks, no, she *knows* Demando feels the same way. Do you not trust her judgment, if you do not trust mine?"
"Trista, this is for your own good. I don't want you to get hurt."
"Endymion, tell me. Who bandaged your cuts when you were the smallest page? Who was the one who snuck you cookies and candy when you were sick? I am your older sister. Do not forget that."
"Trista, you're exactly right. You're my older *sister*. I must watch out for you."
"Please, Endy, just think it over. Talk to him and talk to Serenity. Then, if you are sure, you can make a decision, and I will obey it."
There was silence for quite a while, and then Endymion sighed. "Very well. You will have my answer by the end of the next day. You need sleep, sister."
"Good-night, Endy." Mina began walking down the hall. She turned the corner just as Trista walked out of the throne room.
She leaned against a window, and stared out at the full moons. "I wonder if I'll ever find him." She mused. He heard.
**************************************************************
Well? I hope you liked it. Oh, and my long-term plot is something I've been meaning to run by you. I can't tell you everything, only that some of our least favorite villains will be showing up, and so will someone's long-gone father. I know Mina seems a little OOC, but I'm trying to show her many different sides. I'll be trying to do that for each of the Senshi. I would love reviews, they inspire me. Till chapter four, Ja Ne!
Isis A. Tomoe
Thank you to: Ocianne, CrAzYlAdY Surukain (Crazy heifer, love ya!), girl of darkness (one of coolest people), cuttie-blossom, guardianmercury (another cool person), Kaiya, ~~@NGELBLOOD~~, Rei- leigh, BenRG (always honest, but if you're looking for something on the sci-fi side, it isn't going to be in this story.), Izzy (a sweetie), Flame Stardattir, JupiterAi(another nice person), Nicole (very nice as well), Tenshi (I mentioned your name again!), looneygirl (Ah, the wonderful, unsanitary figments of my imagination), Jovian Goddess (a sweetie as well), and three reviewers who were anonymous.
Disclaimer: I don't own anything, so you can't sue! Take that reptiles, I mean, lawyers!
Chapter Summary: It's the day after the Beltane Ball, and Endymion notices how strange his Generals are acting. Meanwhile, Hotaru has a talk with Rubeus. Rei asks about Jadeite's strange behavior. Serenity and Kunzite have a nice long talk. Lita and Jadeite are spending a lot of time together, which makes a few people suspicious. Ami plays a fun little game, with an interesting prize.
Chapter 3-Emotions
It was the day after the ball, and Mina was just getting up. Her eye was a little sore, but because of Hotaru, there was no visible effect. She leaned over her bed and playfully shook Rei awake.
"Rei, wakey, wakey!"
Rei retaliated by attacking her sister with a pillow. Mina valiantly tried to strike back, but overshot her distance and hit Lita. Lita shot up and began attacking Rei with her pillow. Soon, a full-on pillow fight was underway. Ami slept through most of it, until Lita hit her in the stomach with a cushion. Then she and Mina double teamed Lita and Rei. When Serenity walked in, all four girls were out of breath and red-faced.
Serenity giggled. "By all means, don't stop on my account!" She said, grabbing a pillow and belting Rei in the mouth. The pillow fight continued until Mildred came in to fetch the queen at around noon.
"Your Highness, the king requires your presence."
Serenity stood and began pulling feathers from her hair. "Go and tell milord that I will be there shortly." Mildred bowed and left and Serenity turned to her new friends. "Don't just stand there; help me get these feathers out of my hair!" Everyone crowded around the queen and began plucking feathers from her silvery hair. She was soon presentable, and she left to see what was going on.
Endymion was sitting in one of the war rooms, thinking. Serenity glided over to him and placed a kiss on his forehead. "You seem to be deep in thought."
"It's my generals, Usako. By the way, I sent a messenger to the Wiessman estate, and told them that the Baron is dead."
Serenity nodded. There had been no love lost between her and the former Baron. "What about them?"
"They're always so lonely."
"Jadeite? Surely not!"
"Even Jadeite. But today, something seems different."
"How so, love?"
"Zoicite seems more cheerful than usual, Kunzite has a look of utter confusion on his face, Jadeite has that smirk on his face he gets whenever something good is about to happen to him, and Nephrite won't leave the astronomy tower. Something is wrong."
Serenity giggled. "I bet I know what is wrong with Kunzite and Zoicite."
"What, Usako?"
Serenity leaned close to her husband, and lowered her voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "I do believe they have crushes on people."
"Usako, love, I trust your insight, but Kunzite?"
"I will talk to him, and by the end of the day, I will be able to tell you for sure. Zoicite, I'm positive about, but were I you, I'd make sure Nephrite gets fed. It sounds like he's close to discovering a new constellation or planet. You know how he gets when that happens."
Endymion chuckled. "Remember the time he was certain he had found a new planet, only to discover that Jadeite had left dust on his telescope lens?"
Serenity giggled again. "How could I forget? It took Jadeite weeks to get all of that tar out of his hair." She kissed her husband and left. She strolled down to the training area, where Kunzite was trying to kill a dummy. "Kunzite, you do realize that it can't fight you back, right?"
Kunzite stopped and bowed to the petite woman. "Of course, Your Majesty. I just need to stay in shape." Kunzite had a special soft spot for the younger woman, and they had a special friendship.
"For the last time, Kunz-chan, call me Usagi, or Sere. None of this 'Majesty' stuff."
"Sorry, Yo-Usagi, it slipped."
"Don't let it happen again." Serenity said, jabbing Kunzite in the stomach playfully. "What's wrong? You seem more distracted than usual."
"How so?"
"Well, you've been attacking that same dummy for quite a while, and it's arms, legs, and head have all been chopped off, yet you still attack it."
Kunzite seemed to notice the dilapidated dummy for the first time. "I guess I am just a little preoccupied."
"With what? Tailona has not had any wars or major problems, and you and the other generals are quite respected by your soldiers. What's left to be preoccupied with?" Serenity probed gently. She led Kunzite over to a bench.
"I don't know. Usagi, can I trust you with a secret?"
Serenity took Kunzite's large tanned hand in her small white one. "Of course. What is troubling your mind, big brother?"
"It's the Lady Mina. Every time I'm around her; I get this funny feeling in my chest."
"What's it feel like?"
"A big bubble. I can't explain it. It makes me want to be around her. Last night, I actually wanted to run my fingers through her hair."
"Oh, Kunz-chan." Serenity said softly. "Maybe you should get to know her a little better. She's quite a nice person."
"But that's just it, Usagi; I don't want to get to know her."
"Why not?" Kunzite turned and faced Serenity. She gasped. "You're afraid of her!"
Kunzite buried his face in his hands. "Usagi, I can't afford to feel like this."
"Why not? Everyone is meant to be loved." She said softly, stroking his silvery hair.
"I can't do this, Usagi, I just can't."
"Kunzite, why are you so scared of her?"
"I don't want to love someone, and have them not return it."
"How can you be so sure that you love her; for that matter, how can you be so sure she hates you?"
"I just am."
"Kunzite, you are no Eros. How do you know how she feels if you've never even talked to her?"
"I can just tell. It's the way she distances herself from me."
Serenity put a hand over her mouth to keep a chuckle from escaping. "Kunz-chan, it's not her distancing herself from you; it's you distancing yourself from her!"
"I did not distance myself from her."
"Yes you did, I watched you. If you had been any further apart, I would have thought you hated her."
"I just don't know how to act around her."
"The same way you act around me, of course! Honestly, are all men as simple-minded as you and Endy-chan?"
"What am I supposed to say?"
"Try, 'Lady Mina, may I show you around the palace?'."
"What if she says 'no'?"
"Then she says 'no', and you come tell me, so I can have a talk with her."
Kunzite ran his fingers through his hair thoughtfully. Then he stood resolutely. "You're right, of course Usagi. I'll go talk to her right now." He made as if to leave, but a ladylike cough from Serenity stopped him.
"Kunz-chan, you may want to take a shower first. And after that, you might want to put on some decent clothes, and comb your hair." She suggested, ticking points off on her fingers.
Kunzite bowed to Serenity respectfully. "Thanks Usagi." He left. Serenity watched him fondly, and then left to find Zoicite. She found him, in the library, playing a game with Ami. She hid behind a shelf to watch.
"So you say you have never played this before, Lady Ami?" Zoicite asked as he moved one of his black pieces.
"I've never heard of it until now. It sounds a little like a game we have in Nabol called Junga." She replied, taking one of her clear pieces and moving it carefully to the top of the stack.
"It's almost spelled the same isn't it? Junga and Jenga."
"They're probably the same game, just played a little differently."
Zoicite rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "You know, Lady Ami, I'm not one to gossip, but I believe that my brother has a crush on one of your sisters."
"Really? Who?"
"I'm torn between the Ladies Mina and Rei, but I believe it is Lady Mina."
"That's funny." Ami said thoughtfully.
"How so, Lady?" Zoicite asked, moving another piece.
"If someone even says a word that begins with the letter 'K', Mina sighs, and is in a reverie for about five minutes."
"Do you think they like each other?"
"Forgive my brazenness General Zoicite, but am I winning this game?" Ami replied slyly.
Zoicite looked up then, directly into Ami's eyes and smiled, making Ami's head spin. "It seems I was mistaken about you, milady."
"How so, General?" Ami replied, back to her normal, bashful self.
"There is quite a mastermind lurking underneath that shy exterior. Do you know anything of battle tactics, Lady Ami?"
"No, but I think one day I should very much like to learn." Ami said, blushing slightly.
"Well, after I win, perhaps I could show you how I plan battle strategies?"
"You mean after I win, General Zoicite." Ami replied.
"I believe I was right the first time, milady."
"I do not think so." Ami said as she moved another piece.
"Would you care to make a wager on that, milady?" Zoicite asked mischievously.
"A lady does not make wagers, General."
"Well, this is just a friendly competition, so a wager would be quite proper."
"What kind of wager?"
"A small one, milady. If I win, I get a kiss from you. If you win, you may have whatever you wish from me." Zoicite smiled; he and Jadeite had worked out this plan to the letter. Zoicite was quite confident of his powers in the game.
"Well, I think it would be fair, considering I'm going to win."
"So you agree, milady?"
Ami stuck out her hand. "I agree, General Zoicite." They shook on it.
"And what is your wish?"
"I'll tell you after I win." Ami said confidently. She moved another piece. "Your move." She said, raising a delicate brow.
Zoicite smiled at her and moved a piece, causing the whole structure to come crashing down. He looked shocked. "I've never lost a game in my life!"
Ami giggled. "That, my dear General Zoicite, is because you've never played against me."
Zoicite stood and offered a gentlemanly hand to help Ami out of her chair. "Your wish, milady?"
Ami flung her arms around Zoicite's neck and kissed him hard. She fled, leaving Zoicite dumbfounded. Serenity giggled, and moved to the astronomy tower to talk to Nephrite. By the time she had climbed the stairs, she was winded, and had to take a couple minutes to regain her breath. After she had done so, she tapped on the door.
"Go away!"
"Nephrite, I wouldn't say things like that. You never know who is on the other side of the door." Serenity retorted. Nephrite opened the door.
"I apologize, my queen, but I thought it was Jadeite coming to annoy me again." He said, standing back to let her in the room. She went in, and looked around at the piles of papers everywhere before deciding to stand.
"What has Jadeite been annoying you about?"
"Lady Lita and how wonderful she is."
"Well, she is a wonderful person."
"I know that."
"Then why don't you talk to her?"
"She doesn't like me."
"How do you know?"
"She told me herself."
Serenity winced. "Oh. Well, what did you do to her to make her so mad?"
"I kissed her yesterday."
"And why did you do that?"
"Because she's the most beautiful woman I have ever seen." Nephrite gave a love-struck sigh.
"Have you told her that?"
"How can I? She'll probably kill me." Nephrite leaned on the window, and looked out into the horizon.
"Why don't you write her a letter?"
"And say what? 'Lita, I've fallen in love with you in just two days?' Yeah, that'd work."
"You don't have to sign it. Be a Secret Admirer. And you can fall in love with someone in two days. You saw what happened with me and Endymion. We fell in love at first sight."
"I still don't know. I mean, what if she figures it out?"
"Then maybe she won't be so bad."
"I doubt it."
Serenity picked up a piece of paper. "Nephrite del Winters! If you don't snap out of it and write what you feel, I'll hit you with my shoe." She said, taking a quill pen, and handing both the pen and paper to him.
"What am I to say?"
"Try, 'Dear Lady Lita, I love you. You have only been at the palace for two days, yet I feel as though I have loved you for a long time. From the first time I saw you; I have been enchanted with your beauty, elegance, and kindness. I can only hope that someday I can tell you about my feelings in person, and that you will accept them. Your Secret Admirer.'"
Nephrite was scribbling down the last bit. "Do you think she'll like it?"
"She'll love it."
"How am I supposed to get it to her?"
"Have Jadeite deliver it to her. He and Lady Lita are quite close."
"A little too close if you ask me." Nephrite grumbled.
Serenity raised an eyebrow. "Jealous, my dear General?"
"No, just hoping they don't have a thing going. I hate being made a fool of."
"They don't. Jadeite is completely and totally stuck on Lady Rei."
"She seems a little too stuck-up for my taste." Nephrite said.
"She's a perfectly nice girl; you're just too hooked on Lita to see that. Now, give me the letter, and I'll take it to Jadeite for him to give to Lita." Serenity said, holding out her hand. Nephrite handed her the paper, and she left.
Mina was in the sewing room, rolling bandages. Trista was sitting beside her, sketching outfits for the winter ball, which was no time soon, but the outfits had to be ready and waiting by next month. Mildred came in the door and bowed to Trista. "Princess, Lady. Lady Mina, there's a man waiting for you outside." Mina put down the bandages and stood, completely mystified. She looked at Trista, who shrugged. Mina shrugged back and went outside.
"General Kunzite, to what do I owe this visit?" Mina asked, curtsying slightly.
Kunzite bowed. "It has occurred to me that you have not had a proper tour of our palace yet, Lady Mina. I came to offer my services as a tour guide." He said. {Let her say yes, let her say yes!} He thought.
"I would very much like to see the rest of the palace. It is most kind of you to offer, General." {Ohmigod! He wants to show me around! My hair, is my hair okay? What about my face? Please don't let anything be on my face.} She panicked internally.
Kunzite offered her his arm. "Is there any place you would prefer to start at?" {Why the hell am I losing my mind about this? She's just a girl. A beautiful, funny, sweet, perfect...Damn, there I go again.}
"Why don't we start right here?" Mina suggested. {Don't let anything be in between my teeth, don't let me make a fool of me. Please, Cynthia don't let me do anything foolish!} Mina thought. {I wonder what he looks like when he's working out. He's got the body of a god already. All those wonderful muscles.} Mina's face flamed.
"Is something the matter, milady?" Kunzite asked, noticing the color of her face.
"Nothing, General, nothing at all."
"Very well. This is the ladies wing of the palace. As you know, it contains a sewing room, living quarters, and a training ground." Kunzite said, leading her down a hall.
"A training ground? For ladies?"
"Why yes of course. The king believes that everyone who wants to learn to fight should be able to, regardless of their age or gender."
"Could we see it?" Mina inquired.
"Of course milady." Kunzite led Mina to the training grounds, which were encircled by hedges. Over in the far corner, a very nice assembly of weapons was arranged. Mina practically ran over and began looking over the swords. She hefted a slim-bladed rapier, and ran her fingers over the hilt in wonder. She twisted it into a warrior's salute, getting the feel of the weapon. Kunzite watched as Mina began fighting an invisible enemy. {She's good.} The sun shone down on Mina's person, illuminating her hair and face. {She's beautiful. She could put the goddess of beauty to shame.}
"General, would you care to practice?" Mina called.
"If milady wishes." Kunzite said. He walked over to the weapons array and chose the biggest heaviest sword he could find. Since these weapons were made for ladies, the sword was of the perfect weight. He twisted it experimentally, and took up the en garde position. Mina did so as well, and there was a resounding clang as their swords clashed. As they fought, Kunzite's opinion of Mina raised quite a bit. She was attacking him, one of the best sword fighters in the country, with one arm behind her back. Kunzite assumed the same position, and had to hurriedly throw up a block as Mina went for his throat. He counterattacked by swinging low at her legs. She used her sword to raise his, and raised an eyebrow.
"Had enough?"
"Never, milady." Kunzite replied, thrusting at her stomach. Mina retaliated by lashing out with her foot, and knocking Kunzite on his back. She pointed her sword at his throat.
"I win." Mina said simply. Kunzite jumped off the ground, breathing a little hard.
"Milady, I have never been beaten in sword fight before. You are truly a formidable fighter." Kunzite said, bowing to her respectfully.
"I've never had to fight that hard in my life." Mina replied, curtsying. "I would much like a shower before we continue our tour, if you have no objections, General."
"I have no objections milady. Shall we meet back here in an hour?"
"An hour would be just fine, General." The couple went their separate ways. Mina ran into her and her sisters' room, and began looking through the closets. Ami was lying on her bed, writing in a journal that Serenity had given her.
"Mina, what's the matter?"
"I have to meet Kunzite in an hour, and I don't know what to wear or anything!"
Ami smiled, and pushed Mina in the direction of the bathroom. "You go take your bath. I'll be in to wash your hair in a minute. I'll pick out your outfit and do your hair and make-up." Mina smiled gratefully at her sister and went into the bathroom. Ami went to the closet, and pulled out a dress Rei had found. Rei had been meaning to have the hem taken up, because it was a few inches too long for her, which meant it'd be perfect for Mina. The dress was pale lavender-blue satin that was supposed to cling tight to the chest and tie with a thin white ribbon, and then flare out to softly touch the ground. The sleeves were sheer, and fit tightly until they got to the wrists, where they tied with thin white ribbons, and flared out gently. The neckline was a low scoop. Ami laid the dress on Mina's bed, and went into the bathroom to wash her sister's hair.
"Mina, you're tense. Calm down." Ami soothed as she ran her shampoo-y fingers through Mina's hair.
"What if he doesn't like me?"
"He must, or else he would not have asked to show you around."
"He probably thinks he has to because I'm his gift!"
"I highly doubt he thinks of you as his 'gift'." Ami said, pouring water over her sister's hair. Mina stood up, and Ami wrapped her in a big soft towel. She draped another over Mina's head. "Now, I want you to dry your hair and body, and then come out of the bathroom and put on the dress." Ami ordered.
"I hope I don't run out of time." Mina panicked.
"You won't if you do what I tell you to." Ami said calmly. She walked out of the bathroom, and Mina grabbed the hot-air blower. It was some Tailon invention that helped dry hair faster. It was a small fire, with a fan that blew the air onto the hair. It only took her twenty minutes to dry her hair. When she was through, she stepped out of the bathroom.
"Where's my dress?" She asked. Ami held it up, and Mina began to dress. Ami helped button up the back, and then began attacking her sister's hair. After all the tangles and knots were out, she took a pale lavender bow and tied back the sides of Mina's hair. Mina smoothed out the front of her dress nervously. "Ami, be honest, do I look alright?"
Ami's eyes were wide. Mina was a credit to the dress, instead of the dress being a credit to Mina. If Kunzite was any kind of man, he'd fall out. "Mina, you are beautiful."
"You said you'd do my make-up." Mina frantically reminded, glancing out of the window at the sun. "I've only got fifteen minutes!"
"Calm down, sister, calm down. Sit on the bed, and I'll get started." Ami carefully applied some peach lip color, and swept a bit of lavender eye shadow on Mina's lids. She stepped back to admire her work. "Mina, you are gorgeous." She said softly, leading Mina to the mirror.
Mina stared at the reflection. Only when the reflection brought its hands up to its cheeks in surprise did Mina realize that the goddess in the mirror was *her*. "Cynthia, Ami, I look beautiful."
"You were already beautiful; I just added a little touch here and there."
"Whenever you want to impress Zoicite; let me handle it, alright?"
"You don't have to." Ami said, blushing a bit as she remembered what happened earlier that day.
"I want to." Mina gave her sister a kiss on the cheek and left.
Rei was in the gardens, observing the flowers. She came to a fork in the path, and heard a twig crack down one of them. She decided to take the other one. The path meandered quite a bit, with many forks, and soon Rei became completely lost. She attempted to backtrack to no avail. She heard a rustle, and turned around to ask for directions.
"Lady Rei, what are you doing here?" General Nephrite asked.
"I wanted to admire the flowers, but I got lost."
"I see. I come down here often to think. As I'm sure you've noticed, it's very peaceful. Would you like to accompany me back to the palace?"
"Please." Rei said gratefully. Nephrite extended an arm to her and they took off. Rei noticed that Nephrite took only the left forks of the path. Soon they were back at the garden entryway.
"You see, milady, to get back to the palace you keep left at all the forks."
"I didn't realize what I was doing." Rei said, smiling sheepishly.
Nephrite smiled gently. "It's okay. A lot of people do it. I could show you a different path, if you'd like to go."
Rei nodded and took the proffered arm. Together, she and Nephrite wandered around. They had just passed a fountain that spouted purple water, when they heard voices. Throwing Nephrite a mischievous wink, Rei hid behind a bush to hear what the people were saying.
"What I'm trying to say, Lady, is that I, um..."
"You what, Lord Rubeus?" Nephrite stiffened as the gentle voice of his adopted sister drifted towards him. Rei sensed Nephrite tense, and placed a warning hand on his shoulder.
"Leave them be. Rubeus really likes her." Nephrite gave her a short nod.
"Well, you see, Lady Hotaru, I really admire you, and am very fond of you." Rubeus said softly.
"I am fond of you too Lord."
"And I was hoping that perhaps I could, with the permission of our monarchs and General Nephrite, court you."
"Me?"
Rubeus' soft chuckle was barely audible. "Yes you."
"Why me?"
"You're sweet, smart, kind, and lovely young woman. How could I even look at anyone else?"
If Rei stood on her tiptoes, she could just barely see the couple. Hotaru was sitting against on Rubeus' jacket, leaning against a tree, and Rubeus was sitting near a small lake. Hotaru was blushing furiously.
"I would like that very much." Hotaru murmured. Rubeus looked towards her in surprise.
"Really?" Rubeus stood and walked over to the tree. Hotaru's reply was a small nod. Rei smiled. Rubeus reached in his pocket and pulled out something, which he fastened around Hotaru's neck.
"Oh, thank you, Rubeus. It's beautiful." Hotaru said, smiling up at him. He turned red.
"It's nothing; just something so you'll remember me." He said, becoming very interested in the ground. Rei jerked her head at Nephrite, and they left.
"General, are you and General Jadeite good friends?"
"Yes, I consider him a close friend. Why, milady?"
"Does he dislike me?"
"Not that I know of, milady. Why do you ask?"
"I've seen him three times today, and each time, he bows to me, without smiling, or showing any change of expression. If I'm with Lita, then he becomes more jovial, but he's still cold towards me."
"It sounds quite unusual for him, but I will make an inquiry, and try to find out. Is there any particular reason milady is interested?"
"No, General, just wondering."
Nephrite nodded wisely. "I'll bring it up at training. Jadeite usually does not dislike someone unless they give him a specific reason not to."
"Oh." Rei murmured. She and Nephrite continued their walk, unaware of the pair of azure blue eyes and the pair of emerald green eyes that watched them.
Mina walked slowly onto the training grounds, shading her eyes as she glanced around for Kunzite. A slight cough caused her to whirl around.
"Oh! General Kunzite! I didn't hear you." Mina said, blushing. She dropped a curtsey. The sun was behind her, casting a glow upon her body. The sun illuminated the satin of her dress, and cast a golden sheen on her hair. Kunzite caught his breath, but quickly regained control of himself.
"I apologize, milady, for startling you. Would you like to continue our tour?" Kunzite asked, bowing and extending a hand to her.
"Yes, I would." Mina said, threading her arm through his. They entered the hallway and began walking. "General, Lady Hotaru tells me you are a Shinto priest-in-training."
"Not exactly, milady. I do meditate in front of the Sacred Fire once a day, but only because I find it relaxing. I am not interested in becoming a priest."
"Oh? Swearing off women too much for you?" Mina asked lightly. She stopped dead in her tracks, looking horrified. Her hand covered her mouth in astonishment. "Oh, no. I cannot believe I just said that." Her face was a furious shade of red that even shy Ami would envy. "I do apologize General. I should think before I speak." Mina said. Kunzite had his back to her, and she thought his posture was a little angry-looking. He turned.
"It's quite alright, milady." Kunzite said, the corners of his mouth turning up slightly.
"Is that a half-smile, I see, General?" Mina asked, her own megawatt smile forming slowly.
"It might be milady. You are an amusing person, very different from anyone I've ever met."
"Is that a good amusing, or a bad amusing?" Mina asked.
"Rest assured, milady, that it's a good amusing." Kunzite reassured, stepping closer to her.
Mina made an impossibly cute face that involved her nose scrunching up in an absolutely adorable way. That same face had involuntarily gotten Mina three marriage proposals before she was fifteen. "That's good. Now, if I could only make you laugh, I could consider my mission complete."
Kunzite raised an eyebrow. "Your mission is to make me laugh?"
"Of course. I like seeing people happy; it makes me happy."
"I see. You feel like you have to make me laugh?" Kunzite asked, stepping still closer to Mina. He had no clue how to approach a woman, so he was trusting his gut.
Mina winked at him. "You're handsome when you don't smile, so I bet you'll be a complete god when you do." Her face flamed again as she realized what she said. She covered her face with one hand. "I did it again." She muttered. A sudden sound made her look up in surprise. Kunzite was laughing.
"You really are an amusing woman."
"I think you should call me Mina." She said, after her face had gone back to her proper color. She and Kunzite were toe-to-toe.
"Then call me Kunzite."
"Don't you have a nickname?"
"No."
"Well, I think I'll call you...Z."
"Z, Mina?"
"What's wrong with Z?" Mina asked defensively.
Kunzite shrugged quickly to appease her. "Nothing. You may refer to me as Z if you wish."
"Good." Mina was staring up into Kunzite's eyes. She closed her eyes, and debated on whether or not she should carry out what she wanted to do. Kunzite solved that problem for her. He bent his head down and pressed his lips to hers. Mina barely had time to savor the kiss when he separated from her, and walked away. Mina stared after him in utter astonishment. "Maybe I shouldn't have said what I did. Now what?" Mina turned and walked away into the opposite direction. She passed the throne room, and heard quiet voices. Her curiosity got the better of her, and she leaned on the door to listen.
"Endy, I wish to make a request of you."
"Yes, Trista?"
"I want to marry Lord Demando."
"Does he feel the same way?"
"Yes; we had a long talk before I came here. I love him, very much."
"How can you be sure he feels the same way?"
"Endy!"
"Well? I don't want you to marry some power-hungry lord who just wants to use you to get closer to the throne. I want you to be sure he loves you."
"I thought you trusted him." Trista's voice was quiet, and Mina could barely hear her.
"I do trust him, in matters of state. Matters concerning my only sister's heart are a different story entirely."
"I've known him for twenty years. I think I know his feelings quite well."
"But how can you be sure?" Endymion persisted.
"Serenity thinks, no, she *knows* Demando feels the same way. Do you not trust her judgment, if you do not trust mine?"
"Trista, this is for your own good. I don't want you to get hurt."
"Endymion, tell me. Who bandaged your cuts when you were the smallest page? Who was the one who snuck you cookies and candy when you were sick? I am your older sister. Do not forget that."
"Trista, you're exactly right. You're my older *sister*. I must watch out for you."
"Please, Endy, just think it over. Talk to him and talk to Serenity. Then, if you are sure, you can make a decision, and I will obey it."
There was silence for quite a while, and then Endymion sighed. "Very well. You will have my answer by the end of the next day. You need sleep, sister."
"Good-night, Endy." Mina began walking down the hall. She turned the corner just as Trista walked out of the throne room.
She leaned against a window, and stared out at the full moons. "I wonder if I'll ever find him." She mused. He heard.
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Well? I hope you liked it. Oh, and my long-term plot is something I've been meaning to run by you. I can't tell you everything, only that some of our least favorite villains will be showing up, and so will someone's long-gone father. I know Mina seems a little OOC, but I'm trying to show her many different sides. I'll be trying to do that for each of the Senshi. I would love reviews, they inspire me. Till chapter four, Ja Ne!
Isis A. Tomoe