Princess: Chapter 1
"Wake up Odette!" Samara hissed into her mistress's ear. "What time is it." Ten year old Princess Odette Rhea of Crystal Tokyo muttered. "It's eight twenty! Breakfast starts at eight thirty, but we've got to be there by eight twenty five so we can be there before the guests. Then we're going to visit your Aunt Michiru and your cousins and have the regular holiday on Neptune we have each year!"
Odette sat up with a start. "Oh drat, drat, drat, drat!" she said quickly getting out of bed and changing into a dress exactly like her sister, Rini's but instead of white silk it was made of blue. Quickly she ran a brush through her knee-long hair and ran out of her room.
Princess Odette Rhea of Crystal Tokyo was short for her age. She had jet black hair and dark blue eyes like her father. Unlike her mother and sister she had the mark of the Earth on her forehead instead of a crescent moon. Odette could not keep cool under stress and hated to get punished. She was extremely shy which kept her from meeting new people. Her advisor cat was quite a bit more adventurous.
Samara was the daughter of Artemis and Luna and the sister of Diana. She didn't mind getting into trouble and being punished. In fact she was almost always on some sort of punishment. Samara was always coming up with wild plans of revenge or just plain old pranks. Usually Samara needed Odette to help her. Because Odette was too kind to say no she would sometimes get in trouble along with Samara.
"Why type of balls are we having on Neptune this year?" Odette asked Samara, running down the crystal halls of the palace. It was well known that every year there was a royal get together on Neptune. It lasted a week. Each night there was a ball based on one theme. This year it was... "Masquerade." Samara said easily keeping up with Odette.
Four minutes later Princess Odette and Samara slid into the Royal Dining Hall. Sorry I'm late mama." She said taking her spot next to Rini. "You're not late," Queen Serenity said surprised, "You made it here right on time." Odette gave a sigh of relief. "You'd have been in big trouble if you were late." King Endymion said seriously.
"Are you excited to see your cousins?" Serenity asked both of the princesses. "Yes!" Rini and Odette said at the same time. "I'm glad." The queen said beaming.
The doors opened and a servant walked in. "Announcing Queen Minako, King Tadao, and Princess Michiko." Mina entered first. She looked the same as ever. She was not wearing her sailor fuku, but a long orange dress. Her bright blond hair was in its normal large red bow. Next Tadao walked in. He had brown hair and green eyes. (He sort of looks like a male anime Lita) He wore a business suit. Behind Tadao walked Michiko. She looked exactly like her mother except that the hair coming out of her red bow was braided instead of just let down. The three took their seats.
"Queen Ray, King Chad, Prince Michael, and Princess Kimiaka." The family of Mars walked in and took their seats. Ray entered first. She wore a red slinky dress that went to the top of her red high heals. Her purple-black hair was let down as usual. Her purple eyes darted around the room until she caught sight of Serenity then she smiled. Behind Ray was Chad. His brown hair was in his face like usual. Like Tadao he wore a suit. In back of Chad Michael walked in. He had inherited his father's brown hair and his mother's purple eyes. He too wore a suit. Following Michael was Kimiaka. She, like Michiko she was the spitting image of her mother except there were no differences at all.
"Queen Makato, King Raidon, Princess Kaede, and the Young Princess Kohana." Lita was first in line. She was wearing a green flowing dress. The usual rose earrings were in her ears. Lita was holding Princess Kohana because she was only a year old. Kohana looked entirely different from all of her family. Her hair was pink and her eyes were blue. Raidon had brown hair like Lita. His eyes were brown. Unlike the rest of the men he only wore dress pants and a dress shirt. There was no tie or blazer. Kaede had her mother's brown hair and she also had her green eyes, sort of. Unlike Lita's dull green eyes Kaede had bright green eyes that seemed to sparkle even in the darkest room. The Jupiter family took their seats.
"Queen Amy, King Toru, and Princess Nariko." Amy was the first in. She wore a navy blue strapless dress that went to the floor. Her blue hair was cut in its usual short fashionable style. Toru was next. He had blue hair and blue eyes like his wife. He also wore a business suit. Nariko was behind her father. She had her blue hair like her parents but she kept it in a long braid that went to her waist. She also had crystal clear blue eyes. Nariko had on the same dress as her mother except that it had thin spaghetti straps to hold it up. The Mercury family took their seats. The announcer left.
"Seriously what do people have against nick names?" Kimiaka asked, "Why can't everyone just call me Kimi?" "I don't know, but I've got the same problem." Nariko said annoyed, "Why won't they just call me Nami?" "Face it." Michiko said, "We've all got this problem. Except for Odette and Kaede. Why can't people call me Hoshi like mom, dad, and you guys?"
"Forget about our names," Odette said groaning, "What about this thing in front of them they call 'princess'? It's always getting on my nerves. "I sort of like the princess thing." Nami said, "It's the no nick name people that get me! Why can't they just call me Princess Nami? Why does it always have to be Princess Nariko?" "I don't know!" Odette said putting her fist down.
"Girls you're getting too loud!" Queen Serenity warned. "Sorry mother." Odette said looking down in shame. Rini snickered. She whispered something to Michael and laughed, but he didn't laugh with her.
The rest of the meal was spent talking about the usual like jokes and popular fashions. Odette did not join in o this conversation. She was too busy thinking about the boy across the table from her. Michael.
Michael, the prince of Mars was the most handsome, kind person she had ever met. Unlike his sister, Kimi, whose favorite thing to do was tease Odette in a friendly manner, Michael never teased her. There were plenty of occasions when he had stuck up for her when Kimi was in a particularly harsh teasing mood. Michael was also always there to help her do her homework whenever she needed help. "Odette? Odette? Are you in there?" Hoshi asked waving a hand in front of Odette's eyes. "Oh. Sorry. I sort of zoned out." She said snapping back out of her daydream, "What were you talking about?"
At the end of the meal Odette and Rini excused them selves to pack last minute items before transporting to Neptune. Michael also excused himself to stretch his legs. Odette let herself into her room. She did not know she was being watched.
Michael sighed and looked away as the door closed. He had been attracted to Princess Odette Rhea since he had first seen her. Her midnight black hair was perfect for bringing out the dark blue color of her eyes. Just like King Endymion. Anything she wore made her look like the loveliest girl living, well maybe besides her mother, Queen Serenity.
A few minutes later, Michael watched Odette walk out of her bedroom. She was wearing the same blue, traditional, Moon Princess Dress, but her hair was now up in a style that looked someone like two cinnamon buns on the back of her head. This was her traveling hairstyle. She wore it whenever she left the palace. It kept her abnormally long and downright beautiful hair, according to Michael, out of her way. He remembered the first time Odette had worn the style. Odette had been three. He had been six. She had kept on reaching back and touching the new style. He smiled at the memory.
"Odette come on, we're going to be late!" Michael heard someone yell. It sounded like his Aunt Mina. Odette picked up her long blue skirts and ran down the hall as fast as she could in her tiny blue slippers. He to went towards the voice. It was time to transport to Neptune.
Queen Michiru, King Kazuo, the four princesses of Neptune, Ayme, Sakura, Keiko, and Choyama, Queen Haruka, Queen Hotaru, and Queen Setsuna waited in the transportation garden for their guests to arrive. In the middle of the garden was a small cement area that the expected guests would arrive on.
"Has it really been a year since we've seen Aunt Serenity and the others?" Sakura asked. She had her mother's green hair and blue green eyes. Sakura wore a forest green dress to greet the visitors. "It has." Michiru replied, "It doesn't feel that long though, does it?" Her green hair was in its usual fashion, waved and let down. She wore an aqua dress embroidered with pearls.
Haruka glanced at her gold wristwatch. "They're late." She declared. Haruka was dressed in a sky blue slinky dress. It was obvious she wanted to get out of it as soon as possible. Her blond-white hair was in its usual short style. "Oh be quiet." Setsuna said, "You know as well as I do that large groups take a while to get ready and then they take even longer to transport." Setsuna was wearing a dark purple silk spaghetti strap dress. Her long green hair was in the usual style of one bun on the back of her head. "I guess you're right." Haruka mumbled.
She looked over at Hotaru who was buried in a book. Like usual, she was dressed from head to toe in black. Haruka looked over at Michiru's youngest twins, Keiko and Choyama. They were quietly playing a hand game. Both had jet-black hair and violet eyes. They were both were dressed in Lavender satin dress.
Ayme sighed, "It seems like we have been standing here forever!" she said. She looked exactly the same as her twin, Sakura. "It's been almost a half an hour. Not forever." Her father said smiling. Kazuo had black hair and green eyes. He wore a business suit for the occasion.
A light started collecting in the middle of the cement area. It flashed and there stood Serenity, Endymion, Odette, Rini, Mina, Tadao, Hoshi, Amy, Toru, Nami, Lita, Raidon, Kaede, Kohana, Ray, Chad, Michael, Kimi, Luna, Artemis, Diana, and Samara. "I'm so glad you guys could come!" Michiru exclaimed, "We thought you had bailed on us or something. "We'd never miss this get together!" Serenity said stepping out of the transpiration area.
After everyone greeted each other the guest went to their usual rooms. They had the same one every year. Odette opened the door to her room. It was the same as always. The walls were sea blue. There was a writing desk in one of the corners of the room. There was also a very grand silver bed. Odette opened the door to the walk in closet. Her clothes were already there.
Odette sighed. It was three in the afternoon and time to get ready for the ball. "This year it's a masquerade ball." Samara informed her, "You've got to were masks. Do you want me to get one for you while you get ready?" "That would be nice." Odette said walking into the closet to look at the seven dresses she had brought for the seven balls. Samara left.
Odette looked at the first dress. It was a sky blue, traditional dress. She'd have to were a corset and petticoats with it. "Not tonight." Odette said aloud.
The second dress was a full length gown made out of red satin. It had been a gift from Ray last year. Red wasn't Odette's favorite color and it didn't look the greatest on her either, but this dress was an exception. It had been tailored just for her. It made her look stunning. "The last night for sure." Odette said going to the next dress.
The third dress was the simplest she had brought with her. The only difference from her every day dress, which was a traditional Moon Princess dress except in blue instead of white, was that it was made of satin instead of silk. She preferred satin by far. "Perfect!" Odette said pulling the dress out of the closet.
Ten minutes later Odette whirled around in her chosen ball gown. The only difference visible from her last gown was that this one was shinier. She looked at herself in the mirror. There was no difference. Odette made a pouty face. She loved masquerade balls because people wouldn't recognize her. Even with a mask it would be able to tell she was Princess Odette Rhea of Crystal Tokyo.
Someone knocked on the door. "Come in." Odette called. Queen Serenity opened the door. She was wearing the same dress that she had been wearing to the fateful masquerade ball at the D embassy. "Did you use the Luna Pen, mama?" Odette asked watching her mother close the door and walk towards her. "You caught me." The queen said smiling.
"You're lucky." Odette said, "You've got magic that will disguise you from everyone but papa and your scouts. Even your scouts' husbands won't recognize you." "Do you want to look different than usual?" Serenity asked. "Yes!" Odette said, "But I can't think of a way to make myself look different." "I could do your hair." The queen suggested, "And I could put make up over your Earth sign. Would that work?" "That would be brilliant!" Odette exclaimed happily. "Could you do it now?" "Yes, dear." Serenity said, "Just sit down so I don't have to lean over the whole time.
Twenty minutes later Queen Serenity finished. "There." She said, "All finished." Odette looked at herself in the mirror. "Wow!" Odette said, "I've got meatballs like you!" "You've been spending too much time around your Aunt Ray." Serenity said. "I probably have." Odette agreed, "But who could resist hearing stories about, as Aunt Ray would say it, 'A meatball headed ditz who was the champion of justice'?" Serenity got up rather quickly. "I've got to go talk to Ray about something." She said and swiftly left the room.
"Well aren't you going to follow her and see if she acts like she did years ago?" Samara asked. Surprised, Odette looked down to see Samara sitting on the floor next to the bed, with a white mask next to her. "How long have you been here?" she asked. "Since the time your mom started doing your hair." Samara replied, "And you haven't answered my question." "Well I can't leave to spy manually because I'm not going to let anyone see me until the ball but I guess I'll still watch.
Odette made a complicated gesture with her hands. A tiny golden dot of light flew up so that it was level with Odette's head. The dot got bigger and bigger until it was about a foot wide. The middle of the ball formed into a picture of a scowling Serenity and a surprised looking Ray. They seemed to be in Ray's bedroom.
"What did I do now?" Ray demanded. "You were telling Odette stories about how klutzy I was when I was Sailor Moon!" Serenity exclaimed. "So?" Ray said confused, "I told them to Rini and the others too." "WHAT?!" Serenity yelled. She took a moment to calm herself down then said, "We are going to have a big problem if you told them anything about when Odette was living with Darien." "Oh is that what this is all about?" Ray asked relieved, "No I didn't tell them any stored about that time period."
Serenity seemed to relax a lot. A playful look came over her. In a fake upset voice she said, "You're making me look bad in front of my children!" "I know." Ray said smirking. "If we weren't dressed for a ball I'd chase you down the halls like I used to." Serenity said laughing. "Well if that's it, I've got to finish getting ready for the ball." "I'll see you later then." The queen said leaving the room.
Odette snapped her fingers and the ball disappeared. "What did they mean when they'd have a big problem if Aunt Ray told us anything about when I was living with Darien?" Odette asked, "In fact who's Darien?" "I don't know," The cat replied, "but I don't think you should mention it to anyone. We weren't supposed to hear that." "I agree." Odette said softly.
A few hours later the ball began. Odette walked into the ballroom and gasped. It was beautiful. There seemed to be white roses everywhere. Dancers who were unidentifiable danced by either leading, or being lead. Odette walked to a group of chairs and waited to be asked to dance.
A couple of chairs down a woman laughed. Odette looked over. It was her mother. She watched as the man sitting next to her kissed her mother. "That must be papa." Odette thought, "Everyone knows that mama will only let papa, me and Rini kiss her.
A girl in a black dress with pink hair danced by. She was laughing and generally seemed to be having fun. "That must be Rini." Odette thought, "She's the only one here that has pink hair besides Kohana. I wonder who she's dancing with." She sighed. "I wish someone would ask me to dance she thought."
Odette got up and walked onto the balcony. She loved to look at the sky when she was at Neptune. The scene before her was best described, 'breath taking'. It was much more beautiful than on Earth. The stars were huge because they were much closer. Instead of having a black sky as a backdrop, there was a purple one here.
"Excuse me miss, would you like to dance?" a voice asked. Odette turned around to see a young man standing behind her holding out his hand to lead her back into the ballroom. "Sure." She said taking his hand. Gently, the boy led her into the ballroom. Odette looked him over. He was tall with black hair under a top hat. She couldn't see his eyes because they were hidden under a mask. The boy was wearing a tuxedo like the rest of the men. Odette noted he had a cape like her father.
A lively song started on the dance floor and they started to dance. Odette was twirled faster and faster but never too fast by the young man. She saw Rini sitting down. Odette guessed that the man who had been dancing with her had decided to dance with someone else. She looked quite upset that her little sister had been asked to dance but not her.
"You dance perfectly." The boy commented. "Thank you." Odette replied. They started to slow down as the song ended. The next song was a waltz. The two had a wondrous time doing the simple dance move. They started to talk. "So what's you're name?" Odette asked giggling. "You know I can't tell you that until Queen Michiru gives the OK." The young man replied. "I know," Odette said, "but it was worth a try."
As the night progressed Odette and the young man continued to dance. Finally at the end of the fifth slow song they had danced through the boy asked, "Would you like to go walk in the garden with me?" "I'd love to." Odette replied. Once again the young man led her with what seemed the gentlest grip ever. "This boy is really polite. Odette thought, "I can't wait to see who he is."
Meanwhile Serenity and Endymion had been looking out over the balcony at the couples walking by. Amy and Toru had joined them a few minutes ago. They and Endymion were currently sitting on three chairs set up away from the edge of the balcony. "Don't you thing that you're being a bit, nosy Serenity?" Amy asked looking at her oldest friend. "I've got to agree with Amy." Endymion said, "You said you wanted to come out here to look at the stars not the people." "It's more interesting to look at the people." Serenity said, "And if any one minds they would have told me already."
Suddenly Serenity gasped with surprise. "Oh, Endy look who's got a man!" she whispered excitedly, "It's Odette!" At this not only Endymion, but Amy and Toru bounded to the edge of the balcony to look. "I hope he's good because my daughter only deserves the best." Endymion declared. "It's your sister." Serenity pointed out. "But she's also my daughter." Endymion said, "Amy who's right?" "Technically she's you daughter." Amy explained, "She's just has your sister looks and soul." "What ever." Serenity said gently, "We should go inside and let them have some privacy." "What about those other people you spied on?" Toru asked. "Lets go inside." Serenity repeated with more force, ignoring the last question.
Odette and the boy stopped in a small garden. Red rose bushes made it circular. There was a fountain in the middle. Odette sat down on a small bench. The young man sat down next to her. Suddenly he kissed her on the lips. Odette was surprised but did not pull back. She had learned to trust this boy that night.
"I've got something to tell you." He said seriously, "I love you. I've known you since you were born. Something just seems to draw me to you." Odette didn't know what to say. Did she know this young man behind the mask? She opened her mouth to say something. "Don't say anything." The boy whispered, "I know you're surprised and maybe a little scared but don't be. I'd never hurt you because I've always loved you." He drew a half copper out of his pocket and gave it to her. I know about your tradition of throwing some money into any well or fountain you see. That's one of the reasons I took you to this garden and not another. Also I know you're quite partial to red roses." The boy said, "Here take this half copper and do what you must."
Odette took the money and walked to the fountain. It was a pretty fountain. The entire thing was made of white marble. There was a statue of a young girl holding a pot in the middle. Odette threw the half copper into the pot. "Thank you for the money." She said to the boy. "You're welcome." He replied, "Are you ready to go back? Queen Michiru will be telling everyone to unmask soon." Odette took the boy's hand and he led her back to the ballroom.
Odette and the young man shared one more song before the music stopped. Then Queen Michiru walked to the front of the room and said, "Everyone can remove their masks now!" Odette took her mask off and wiped off the makeup that concealed her Earth sign. The boy didn't react. Odette wasn't surprised. It seemed that the boy had known who he was dancing with since the beginning of the night.
The boy removed his mask to reveal startling purple eyes. "Michael?!" Odette exclaimed. "Yes it's me." He said sadly, "If you don't return my feelings it's OK. You're too good for -" He was cut off by Odette hugging him. "Oh Michael!" she said happily, "I do return your feelings!" She kissed him on the cheek. "I didn't say anything because I thought that you'd find someone else. You are three years older than me." "Let's dance." Michael whispered into her ear, "The music's started up again."
An hour later Michael dropped Odette off at her rooms. They had danced happily together for a few more songs and then went to find Kimi, Kaede, Hoshi, and Nami the news that they were officially a 'couple'. "I had a great night." Odette said to her new boyfriend. "So did I." Michael replied. "Why didn't you tell me before that you loved me?" she asked. "I was scared you'd laugh." Michael replied, color rising to his cheeks. "I'd never!" Odette said surprised, "Well I'd better get going. See you tomorrow." "You too." Michael retorted giving his new girlfriend one last peck on the cheek for the night.
Odette walked into her room already so rapped up in her daydreams that she forgot to close the door. She put her mask down on the dressing table. CREEEEK! The door closed slowly. Surprised, Odette turned around. There was a heavyset man guarding the door. She would have screamed except a second man put his hand over her mouth. "'Ello Princess." The first man said grinning, "The masta said we was to get yah, so we's do'n that."
Odette made a struggle to get loose from the second man but he was too strong. The first man cupped his hands together and a black ball of energy formed there. That was the last thing Odette saw for a very long time.
Did you like it? What did you think? There's definitely going to be a lot to this story. Much more than Cinnamon Buns.
"Wake up Odette!" Samara hissed into her mistress's ear. "What time is it." Ten year old Princess Odette Rhea of Crystal Tokyo muttered. "It's eight twenty! Breakfast starts at eight thirty, but we've got to be there by eight twenty five so we can be there before the guests. Then we're going to visit your Aunt Michiru and your cousins and have the regular holiday on Neptune we have each year!"
Odette sat up with a start. "Oh drat, drat, drat, drat!" she said quickly getting out of bed and changing into a dress exactly like her sister, Rini's but instead of white silk it was made of blue. Quickly she ran a brush through her knee-long hair and ran out of her room.
Princess Odette Rhea of Crystal Tokyo was short for her age. She had jet black hair and dark blue eyes like her father. Unlike her mother and sister she had the mark of the Earth on her forehead instead of a crescent moon. Odette could not keep cool under stress and hated to get punished. She was extremely shy which kept her from meeting new people. Her advisor cat was quite a bit more adventurous.
Samara was the daughter of Artemis and Luna and the sister of Diana. She didn't mind getting into trouble and being punished. In fact she was almost always on some sort of punishment. Samara was always coming up with wild plans of revenge or just plain old pranks. Usually Samara needed Odette to help her. Because Odette was too kind to say no she would sometimes get in trouble along with Samara.
"Why type of balls are we having on Neptune this year?" Odette asked Samara, running down the crystal halls of the palace. It was well known that every year there was a royal get together on Neptune. It lasted a week. Each night there was a ball based on one theme. This year it was... "Masquerade." Samara said easily keeping up with Odette.
Four minutes later Princess Odette and Samara slid into the Royal Dining Hall. Sorry I'm late mama." She said taking her spot next to Rini. "You're not late," Queen Serenity said surprised, "You made it here right on time." Odette gave a sigh of relief. "You'd have been in big trouble if you were late." King Endymion said seriously.
"Are you excited to see your cousins?" Serenity asked both of the princesses. "Yes!" Rini and Odette said at the same time. "I'm glad." The queen said beaming.
The doors opened and a servant walked in. "Announcing Queen Minako, King Tadao, and Princess Michiko." Mina entered first. She looked the same as ever. She was not wearing her sailor fuku, but a long orange dress. Her bright blond hair was in its normal large red bow. Next Tadao walked in. He had brown hair and green eyes. (He sort of looks like a male anime Lita) He wore a business suit. Behind Tadao walked Michiko. She looked exactly like her mother except that the hair coming out of her red bow was braided instead of just let down. The three took their seats.
"Queen Ray, King Chad, Prince Michael, and Princess Kimiaka." The family of Mars walked in and took their seats. Ray entered first. She wore a red slinky dress that went to the top of her red high heals. Her purple-black hair was let down as usual. Her purple eyes darted around the room until she caught sight of Serenity then she smiled. Behind Ray was Chad. His brown hair was in his face like usual. Like Tadao he wore a suit. In back of Chad Michael walked in. He had inherited his father's brown hair and his mother's purple eyes. He too wore a suit. Following Michael was Kimiaka. She, like Michiko she was the spitting image of her mother except there were no differences at all.
"Queen Makato, King Raidon, Princess Kaede, and the Young Princess Kohana." Lita was first in line. She was wearing a green flowing dress. The usual rose earrings were in her ears. Lita was holding Princess Kohana because she was only a year old. Kohana looked entirely different from all of her family. Her hair was pink and her eyes were blue. Raidon had brown hair like Lita. His eyes were brown. Unlike the rest of the men he only wore dress pants and a dress shirt. There was no tie or blazer. Kaede had her mother's brown hair and she also had her green eyes, sort of. Unlike Lita's dull green eyes Kaede had bright green eyes that seemed to sparkle even in the darkest room. The Jupiter family took their seats.
"Queen Amy, King Toru, and Princess Nariko." Amy was the first in. She wore a navy blue strapless dress that went to the floor. Her blue hair was cut in its usual short fashionable style. Toru was next. He had blue hair and blue eyes like his wife. He also wore a business suit. Nariko was behind her father. She had her blue hair like her parents but she kept it in a long braid that went to her waist. She also had crystal clear blue eyes. Nariko had on the same dress as her mother except that it had thin spaghetti straps to hold it up. The Mercury family took their seats. The announcer left.
"Seriously what do people have against nick names?" Kimiaka asked, "Why can't everyone just call me Kimi?" "I don't know, but I've got the same problem." Nariko said annoyed, "Why won't they just call me Nami?" "Face it." Michiko said, "We've all got this problem. Except for Odette and Kaede. Why can't people call me Hoshi like mom, dad, and you guys?"
"Forget about our names," Odette said groaning, "What about this thing in front of them they call 'princess'? It's always getting on my nerves. "I sort of like the princess thing." Nami said, "It's the no nick name people that get me! Why can't they just call me Princess Nami? Why does it always have to be Princess Nariko?" "I don't know!" Odette said putting her fist down.
"Girls you're getting too loud!" Queen Serenity warned. "Sorry mother." Odette said looking down in shame. Rini snickered. She whispered something to Michael and laughed, but he didn't laugh with her.
The rest of the meal was spent talking about the usual like jokes and popular fashions. Odette did not join in o this conversation. She was too busy thinking about the boy across the table from her. Michael.
Michael, the prince of Mars was the most handsome, kind person she had ever met. Unlike his sister, Kimi, whose favorite thing to do was tease Odette in a friendly manner, Michael never teased her. There were plenty of occasions when he had stuck up for her when Kimi was in a particularly harsh teasing mood. Michael was also always there to help her do her homework whenever she needed help. "Odette? Odette? Are you in there?" Hoshi asked waving a hand in front of Odette's eyes. "Oh. Sorry. I sort of zoned out." She said snapping back out of her daydream, "What were you talking about?"
At the end of the meal Odette and Rini excused them selves to pack last minute items before transporting to Neptune. Michael also excused himself to stretch his legs. Odette let herself into her room. She did not know she was being watched.
Michael sighed and looked away as the door closed. He had been attracted to Princess Odette Rhea since he had first seen her. Her midnight black hair was perfect for bringing out the dark blue color of her eyes. Just like King Endymion. Anything she wore made her look like the loveliest girl living, well maybe besides her mother, Queen Serenity.
A few minutes later, Michael watched Odette walk out of her bedroom. She was wearing the same blue, traditional, Moon Princess Dress, but her hair was now up in a style that looked someone like two cinnamon buns on the back of her head. This was her traveling hairstyle. She wore it whenever she left the palace. It kept her abnormally long and downright beautiful hair, according to Michael, out of her way. He remembered the first time Odette had worn the style. Odette had been three. He had been six. She had kept on reaching back and touching the new style. He smiled at the memory.
"Odette come on, we're going to be late!" Michael heard someone yell. It sounded like his Aunt Mina. Odette picked up her long blue skirts and ran down the hall as fast as she could in her tiny blue slippers. He to went towards the voice. It was time to transport to Neptune.
Queen Michiru, King Kazuo, the four princesses of Neptune, Ayme, Sakura, Keiko, and Choyama, Queen Haruka, Queen Hotaru, and Queen Setsuna waited in the transportation garden for their guests to arrive. In the middle of the garden was a small cement area that the expected guests would arrive on.
"Has it really been a year since we've seen Aunt Serenity and the others?" Sakura asked. She had her mother's green hair and blue green eyes. Sakura wore a forest green dress to greet the visitors. "It has." Michiru replied, "It doesn't feel that long though, does it?" Her green hair was in its usual fashion, waved and let down. She wore an aqua dress embroidered with pearls.
Haruka glanced at her gold wristwatch. "They're late." She declared. Haruka was dressed in a sky blue slinky dress. It was obvious she wanted to get out of it as soon as possible. Her blond-white hair was in its usual short style. "Oh be quiet." Setsuna said, "You know as well as I do that large groups take a while to get ready and then they take even longer to transport." Setsuna was wearing a dark purple silk spaghetti strap dress. Her long green hair was in the usual style of one bun on the back of her head. "I guess you're right." Haruka mumbled.
She looked over at Hotaru who was buried in a book. Like usual, she was dressed from head to toe in black. Haruka looked over at Michiru's youngest twins, Keiko and Choyama. They were quietly playing a hand game. Both had jet-black hair and violet eyes. They were both were dressed in Lavender satin dress.
Ayme sighed, "It seems like we have been standing here forever!" she said. She looked exactly the same as her twin, Sakura. "It's been almost a half an hour. Not forever." Her father said smiling. Kazuo had black hair and green eyes. He wore a business suit for the occasion.
A light started collecting in the middle of the cement area. It flashed and there stood Serenity, Endymion, Odette, Rini, Mina, Tadao, Hoshi, Amy, Toru, Nami, Lita, Raidon, Kaede, Kohana, Ray, Chad, Michael, Kimi, Luna, Artemis, Diana, and Samara. "I'm so glad you guys could come!" Michiru exclaimed, "We thought you had bailed on us or something. "We'd never miss this get together!" Serenity said stepping out of the transpiration area.
After everyone greeted each other the guest went to their usual rooms. They had the same one every year. Odette opened the door to her room. It was the same as always. The walls were sea blue. There was a writing desk in one of the corners of the room. There was also a very grand silver bed. Odette opened the door to the walk in closet. Her clothes were already there.
Odette sighed. It was three in the afternoon and time to get ready for the ball. "This year it's a masquerade ball." Samara informed her, "You've got to were masks. Do you want me to get one for you while you get ready?" "That would be nice." Odette said walking into the closet to look at the seven dresses she had brought for the seven balls. Samara left.
Odette looked at the first dress. It was a sky blue, traditional dress. She'd have to were a corset and petticoats with it. "Not tonight." Odette said aloud.
The second dress was a full length gown made out of red satin. It had been a gift from Ray last year. Red wasn't Odette's favorite color and it didn't look the greatest on her either, but this dress was an exception. It had been tailored just for her. It made her look stunning. "The last night for sure." Odette said going to the next dress.
The third dress was the simplest she had brought with her. The only difference from her every day dress, which was a traditional Moon Princess dress except in blue instead of white, was that it was made of satin instead of silk. She preferred satin by far. "Perfect!" Odette said pulling the dress out of the closet.
Ten minutes later Odette whirled around in her chosen ball gown. The only difference visible from her last gown was that this one was shinier. She looked at herself in the mirror. There was no difference. Odette made a pouty face. She loved masquerade balls because people wouldn't recognize her. Even with a mask it would be able to tell she was Princess Odette Rhea of Crystal Tokyo.
Someone knocked on the door. "Come in." Odette called. Queen Serenity opened the door. She was wearing the same dress that she had been wearing to the fateful masquerade ball at the D embassy. "Did you use the Luna Pen, mama?" Odette asked watching her mother close the door and walk towards her. "You caught me." The queen said smiling.
"You're lucky." Odette said, "You've got magic that will disguise you from everyone but papa and your scouts. Even your scouts' husbands won't recognize you." "Do you want to look different than usual?" Serenity asked. "Yes!" Odette said, "But I can't think of a way to make myself look different." "I could do your hair." The queen suggested, "And I could put make up over your Earth sign. Would that work?" "That would be brilliant!" Odette exclaimed happily. "Could you do it now?" "Yes, dear." Serenity said, "Just sit down so I don't have to lean over the whole time.
Twenty minutes later Queen Serenity finished. "There." She said, "All finished." Odette looked at herself in the mirror. "Wow!" Odette said, "I've got meatballs like you!" "You've been spending too much time around your Aunt Ray." Serenity said. "I probably have." Odette agreed, "But who could resist hearing stories about, as Aunt Ray would say it, 'A meatball headed ditz who was the champion of justice'?" Serenity got up rather quickly. "I've got to go talk to Ray about something." She said and swiftly left the room.
"Well aren't you going to follow her and see if she acts like she did years ago?" Samara asked. Surprised, Odette looked down to see Samara sitting on the floor next to the bed, with a white mask next to her. "How long have you been here?" she asked. "Since the time your mom started doing your hair." Samara replied, "And you haven't answered my question." "Well I can't leave to spy manually because I'm not going to let anyone see me until the ball but I guess I'll still watch.
Odette made a complicated gesture with her hands. A tiny golden dot of light flew up so that it was level with Odette's head. The dot got bigger and bigger until it was about a foot wide. The middle of the ball formed into a picture of a scowling Serenity and a surprised looking Ray. They seemed to be in Ray's bedroom.
"What did I do now?" Ray demanded. "You were telling Odette stories about how klutzy I was when I was Sailor Moon!" Serenity exclaimed. "So?" Ray said confused, "I told them to Rini and the others too." "WHAT?!" Serenity yelled. She took a moment to calm herself down then said, "We are going to have a big problem if you told them anything about when Odette was living with Darien." "Oh is that what this is all about?" Ray asked relieved, "No I didn't tell them any stored about that time period."
Serenity seemed to relax a lot. A playful look came over her. In a fake upset voice she said, "You're making me look bad in front of my children!" "I know." Ray said smirking. "If we weren't dressed for a ball I'd chase you down the halls like I used to." Serenity said laughing. "Well if that's it, I've got to finish getting ready for the ball." "I'll see you later then." The queen said leaving the room.
Odette snapped her fingers and the ball disappeared. "What did they mean when they'd have a big problem if Aunt Ray told us anything about when I was living with Darien?" Odette asked, "In fact who's Darien?" "I don't know," The cat replied, "but I don't think you should mention it to anyone. We weren't supposed to hear that." "I agree." Odette said softly.
A few hours later the ball began. Odette walked into the ballroom and gasped. It was beautiful. There seemed to be white roses everywhere. Dancers who were unidentifiable danced by either leading, or being lead. Odette walked to a group of chairs and waited to be asked to dance.
A couple of chairs down a woman laughed. Odette looked over. It was her mother. She watched as the man sitting next to her kissed her mother. "That must be papa." Odette thought, "Everyone knows that mama will only let papa, me and Rini kiss her.
A girl in a black dress with pink hair danced by. She was laughing and generally seemed to be having fun. "That must be Rini." Odette thought, "She's the only one here that has pink hair besides Kohana. I wonder who she's dancing with." She sighed. "I wish someone would ask me to dance she thought."
Odette got up and walked onto the balcony. She loved to look at the sky when she was at Neptune. The scene before her was best described, 'breath taking'. It was much more beautiful than on Earth. The stars were huge because they were much closer. Instead of having a black sky as a backdrop, there was a purple one here.
"Excuse me miss, would you like to dance?" a voice asked. Odette turned around to see a young man standing behind her holding out his hand to lead her back into the ballroom. "Sure." She said taking his hand. Gently, the boy led her into the ballroom. Odette looked him over. He was tall with black hair under a top hat. She couldn't see his eyes because they were hidden under a mask. The boy was wearing a tuxedo like the rest of the men. Odette noted he had a cape like her father.
A lively song started on the dance floor and they started to dance. Odette was twirled faster and faster but never too fast by the young man. She saw Rini sitting down. Odette guessed that the man who had been dancing with her had decided to dance with someone else. She looked quite upset that her little sister had been asked to dance but not her.
"You dance perfectly." The boy commented. "Thank you." Odette replied. They started to slow down as the song ended. The next song was a waltz. The two had a wondrous time doing the simple dance move. They started to talk. "So what's you're name?" Odette asked giggling. "You know I can't tell you that until Queen Michiru gives the OK." The young man replied. "I know," Odette said, "but it was worth a try."
As the night progressed Odette and the young man continued to dance. Finally at the end of the fifth slow song they had danced through the boy asked, "Would you like to go walk in the garden with me?" "I'd love to." Odette replied. Once again the young man led her with what seemed the gentlest grip ever. "This boy is really polite. Odette thought, "I can't wait to see who he is."
Meanwhile Serenity and Endymion had been looking out over the balcony at the couples walking by. Amy and Toru had joined them a few minutes ago. They and Endymion were currently sitting on three chairs set up away from the edge of the balcony. "Don't you thing that you're being a bit, nosy Serenity?" Amy asked looking at her oldest friend. "I've got to agree with Amy." Endymion said, "You said you wanted to come out here to look at the stars not the people." "It's more interesting to look at the people." Serenity said, "And if any one minds they would have told me already."
Suddenly Serenity gasped with surprise. "Oh, Endy look who's got a man!" she whispered excitedly, "It's Odette!" At this not only Endymion, but Amy and Toru bounded to the edge of the balcony to look. "I hope he's good because my daughter only deserves the best." Endymion declared. "It's your sister." Serenity pointed out. "But she's also my daughter." Endymion said, "Amy who's right?" "Technically she's you daughter." Amy explained, "She's just has your sister looks and soul." "What ever." Serenity said gently, "We should go inside and let them have some privacy." "What about those other people you spied on?" Toru asked. "Lets go inside." Serenity repeated with more force, ignoring the last question.
Odette and the boy stopped in a small garden. Red rose bushes made it circular. There was a fountain in the middle. Odette sat down on a small bench. The young man sat down next to her. Suddenly he kissed her on the lips. Odette was surprised but did not pull back. She had learned to trust this boy that night.
"I've got something to tell you." He said seriously, "I love you. I've known you since you were born. Something just seems to draw me to you." Odette didn't know what to say. Did she know this young man behind the mask? She opened her mouth to say something. "Don't say anything." The boy whispered, "I know you're surprised and maybe a little scared but don't be. I'd never hurt you because I've always loved you." He drew a half copper out of his pocket and gave it to her. I know about your tradition of throwing some money into any well or fountain you see. That's one of the reasons I took you to this garden and not another. Also I know you're quite partial to red roses." The boy said, "Here take this half copper and do what you must."
Odette took the money and walked to the fountain. It was a pretty fountain. The entire thing was made of white marble. There was a statue of a young girl holding a pot in the middle. Odette threw the half copper into the pot. "Thank you for the money." She said to the boy. "You're welcome." He replied, "Are you ready to go back? Queen Michiru will be telling everyone to unmask soon." Odette took the boy's hand and he led her back to the ballroom.
Odette and the young man shared one more song before the music stopped. Then Queen Michiru walked to the front of the room and said, "Everyone can remove their masks now!" Odette took her mask off and wiped off the makeup that concealed her Earth sign. The boy didn't react. Odette wasn't surprised. It seemed that the boy had known who he was dancing with since the beginning of the night.
The boy removed his mask to reveal startling purple eyes. "Michael?!" Odette exclaimed. "Yes it's me." He said sadly, "If you don't return my feelings it's OK. You're too good for -" He was cut off by Odette hugging him. "Oh Michael!" she said happily, "I do return your feelings!" She kissed him on the cheek. "I didn't say anything because I thought that you'd find someone else. You are three years older than me." "Let's dance." Michael whispered into her ear, "The music's started up again."
An hour later Michael dropped Odette off at her rooms. They had danced happily together for a few more songs and then went to find Kimi, Kaede, Hoshi, and Nami the news that they were officially a 'couple'. "I had a great night." Odette said to her new boyfriend. "So did I." Michael replied. "Why didn't you tell me before that you loved me?" she asked. "I was scared you'd laugh." Michael replied, color rising to his cheeks. "I'd never!" Odette said surprised, "Well I'd better get going. See you tomorrow." "You too." Michael retorted giving his new girlfriend one last peck on the cheek for the night.
Odette walked into her room already so rapped up in her daydreams that she forgot to close the door. She put her mask down on the dressing table. CREEEEK! The door closed slowly. Surprised, Odette turned around. There was a heavyset man guarding the door. She would have screamed except a second man put his hand over her mouth. "'Ello Princess." The first man said grinning, "The masta said we was to get yah, so we's do'n that."
Odette made a struggle to get loose from the second man but he was too strong. The first man cupped his hands together and a black ball of energy formed there. That was the last thing Odette saw for a very long time.
Did you like it? What did you think? There's definitely going to be a lot to this story. Much more than Cinnamon Buns.