Author's Note: Since I got some reviews I might as well continue it and since all my exams are finally done – I was able to type the second chapter! :D I hope you like it! It also somehow became extra long but I'm not sure it would be good enough but – meh! Just let me know if it doesn't suit your taste.

Title: A Tale of Timeless Love

Disclaimer:I don't own Shugo Chara or any of its characters and if I did –

Sis: hah! You wish!

LosTruth: hey! No peeking! (blocking screen)

Sis: you? Own Shugo Chara? Pfft. In your dreams!

LosTruth: That's why I'm typing the disclaimer, can't you see?

Sis: But it's typed up there 'If I did-'

LosTruth: Shush! I DO NOT OWN SHUGO CHARA. There! Happy? Now go away! (typing away furiously making a go-away hand gesture)

Sis: (rolling her eyes…probably.) Whatever…Just hurry and type your chapter so I can finish mine.

-OoO-

Chapter 2 A World Apart

"The Emperor will see you now." A male attendant with drawn back chestnut colored hair informed Amu. He was wearing a Palace Official robe and he even wore an aide's brooch, as was the custom, which was designated by the emperor himself. Amu studied the face behind the rectangular spectacles and realized that he looked quite weary. She spotted a small stain near the sleeve of his robe; Amu assumed he had been wandering outside before he had come to greet her.

He had actually been the one who found her when she was lost after parting with the blue-haired stranger who helped – or rather, who had forcefully assisted her just a little while before. After she had left the sleeping stranger in that certain room, she found that there were other rooms of the same kind. She had spent a rather lengthy time trying to find the exit in a corridor filled with such rooms. Also, there was nobody in the whole building to ask directions from because it was expected for all servants to be working at that hour.

Once or twice she had even hesitated to go back and ask directions from him but her pride had gotten in the way. She didn't want to be in further debt to a stranger she had just met. And so she wandered aimlessly; maybe she had been going about in circles repeatedly but by a shred of luck she had found the right door to the exit.

Her breathing had become quite haggard when she was inside that stifling building and so the moment she had gotten out she took a deep breath and exhaled triumphantly. Just as she was getting back her breath, the chestnut-haired aide had called her attention and brought her here. She had simply followed him through all the twists and turns of the Palace and they had somehow arrived right into the Palace Audience Room.

Amu now stood behind a lavish and grand golden door. She could feel anxiety bubbling inside her. Only very few people had ever really met the Emperor in person – most of the time only nobles were allowed such a privilege. She was but a mere servant and yet here she was – right behind the door which separated the common people from the nobles.

And beyond this very door was the Emperor himself.

"There's no need to be so tense, Hinamori-san." Someone gently whispered in her ear.

She jumped at the sudden intrusion in her thoughts. She looked at the source of the voice and found that it was the aide who had accompanied her. He chuckled quietly at her reaction.

"Well, I can understand why you are so tense though, but if you are too nervous you might not be able to speak with his Majesty properly," He said reasonably.

Her outer personality had decided to make its appearance then. "I understand. I will compose myself immediately." She replied firmly as she steadied herself. She was glad for his advice but she didn't want to end up depending on him. Actually she didn't like depending on anyone nor did she like being in debt to anyone.

The doors slowly opened and revealed a long scarlet carpet that led to a grand and resplendent throne at the very end of the room. The room was elegantly decorated – there was no furniture and whatnot but the walls and the ceiling itself were utterly superb because of the beautiful and realistic paintings of scenes depicting spring. Amu gazed at all of it in awe, discreetly marvelling, as she walked calmly towards the throne.

As she got nearer to the throne she saw the faces of those attending him. There was an exquisite lady with the most charming smile standing right beside the Emperor. Amu assumed that it was the Emperor's consort. On his other side standing side by side was a fair-haired male and a lady with forest green hair. The fair haired man smiled at her approach while the lady simply looked at her sharply, it was almost an outright glare. Amu took notice that all three of them were wearing extremely fine and beautiful robes similar to the one she currently wore. When she was only a few feet from the Emperor she bowed down gracefully and waited to be addressed by his Majesty.

"Rise, Hinamori Amu." The Emperor's voice resounded clearly in the room. Amu immediately obliged and stood up slowly. As she slowly raised her gaze to meet the Emperor's, it was only then that she spotted the two individuals standing a few feet behind the throne. One was a boy her age with golden hair and carnation colored eyes, beside him was an exceptionally stunning girl with long light blond hair and vivid lavender eyes. The golden haired boy's eyes met hers briefly and he gave her a small smile while the girl beside him looked at her with her forehead knotted together. It was the sort of look you gave to a blemish on your skin you wanted removed immediately or an insect you wanted exterminated.

Amu shook it off and gazed straight at Emperor Kazuomi Hoshina. He was leaning casually against the throne with his left arm on the throne's armrest supporting his head. The crown atop his head glittered as the light bounced off it in all directions. This was the Emperor. But… a year before, that crown had rested on the head of a completely different person, though – a man by the name of Tsukiyomi Aruto.

It was common knowledge that the newly appointed Emperor Kazuomi had only been allowed to sit on the throne when his elder brother, the real heir to the throne, had suddenly disappeared without a trace. They had searched for him for half a year and they still could not find him. Because of the people's unrest of the lack of an Emperor, Kazuomi had been allowed to rise to the throne. Amu had not known the previous Emperor, but it was Emperor Kazuomi who had allowed her to work at the Palace and it was also him who summoned her now.

The Emperor beamed at Amu's appearance before him – then he blinked and cocked his head to one side with a puzzled expression.

"Is something the matter Your Majesty?" Amu asked courteously, making sure to keep her voice as light and normal as possible.

"The pin I that came with the robes, you did not use it?" he asked curiously. Amu's breath caught in her throat. Somehow, she had sensed this coming but she didn't have ample time to find a good reply. She did not want the Emperor to know that she had dropped it so carelessly but she also didn't want him to think that she didn't like it.

This is indeed troubling, Your Majesty. Why must you be so observant? Amu asked forlornly as she searched desperately for a suitable reply. That was when the perfect words materialized in her head.

She bowed apologetically. "Forgive me, Your Majesty. I couldn't bring myself to use such a beautiful ornament. It would never suit one such as myself."

It wasn't a lie – but it wasn't the complete truth either which didn't make her as deceiving as she may seem.

The Emperor chuckled at the apparent foolishness that she created.

"Nonsense. That pin perfectly complements your extraordinary hair. I had it made especially for you. You must use it next time, Hinamori Amu. Promise me," he said good-naturedly. Amu gave a concealed sigh; she had slipped out of that one pretty well. It would be good if the mysterious stranger would keep his word about the pin – or else she was sure she wouldn't be able to get away a second time.

"If Your Majesty wishes it then it shall be so." She replied as she nodded quite spiritedly. She bowed once more to show that she intended to keep her word, after all who could deny the Emperor anything he desired?

"Wonderful. Now, let's proceed to business." He announced as he clapped his hands together. He glanced to the back of the throne. "Utau. Come forward please." The lovely blonde girl silently stepped forward to the side of the throne beside the pretty lady. The Emperor turned back to address Amu.

"Let me formally introduce you. Hinamori Amu this is my daughter, Hoshina Utau, the princess of Seiyo. Utau, this is your new aide, Hinamori Amu. She shall be assigned to keep watch on you and assist you starting today," He said quite exuberantly. Utau looked like she couldn't care less about Amu; her gaze passed over her as if she didn't even exist.

Amu had already guessed that this was the famous Princess of Seiyo the moment she laid eyes on her. Everybodycalled her 'An Angel sent from Kami-sama'. Not only was the Princess unquestionably beautiful, she also had the most captivating voice in Seiyo. It was that very Princess she was assigned to watch over. Strangely, Amu felt a strong sense of foreboding as she examined the princess.

Amu's eyes met Utau's and she clearly saw the annoyance behind them. Of course a princess wouldn't want a simple commoner like her to be her aide, but Amu was determined to succeed in this job for Ami's sake. She didn't care whether she had to walk through flames or be mocked for eternity; she wasn't planning on leaving her duty anytime soon.

"Well then Hinamori, I shall introduce you to my trusted aides who will help you adapt to your new responsibilities. That man beside you or the one who escorted you here is Nikaidou Yuu, one of my personal aides." The chestnut haired man beside her gave her an amicable smile. "It's a pleasure to meet you," He said pleasantly as he adjusted the frame of his spectacles.

"– The other is this lady here," the Emperor continued as he gestured to the lady with forest green hair. "This is Sanjo Yukari. Who is in charge of Utau's performances, be sure to get Utau's schedule from her when you have the time." he added.

"And while I'm at it I shall introduce you to other people you will be encountering frequently in the Palace. This lady," This time he gestured to the beautiful lady on his other side. "This is my beloved Souko," He said proudly. The lady blushed slightly at his words and the Emperor chuckled at her reaction. Consort Souko covered her mouth with her sleeve as she murmured something in the Emperor's ear. The Emperor smirked at her words and Amu saw that the Consort's eyebrows were slightly knitted together but when she turned back to Amu it was the same amiable face she had shown earlier.

Next the Emperor pointed to the blond man beside him. "This is Tsukasa Aoi. He is the Head Judge of the Imperial Court and he is my most trusted official." The tall blond man laughed openly.

"You flatter me, Kazuomi." Amu was slightly taken aback; he had uttered the Emperor's name so carelessly, but it didn't seem to bother any of the other people in the room. Amu assumed that it was probably a common occurrence between them.

"An Emperor cannot lie, Tsukasa." The Emperor replied with the same easiness as the man named Tsukasa. This seemed to be their normal tone when addressing each other. It was rather calming in way, Amu observed. They talked like old friends who simply enjoyed each other's company. Amu gave a small smile at the sight.

Abruptly, he gestured for the blond boy behind him to come forward. The blond boy her age stepped forward and stood beside Princess Utau. "This, is my son, the Second Prince, Hoshina Tadase. The two of you are of the same age. I hope you will get along well." He spoke with a tone of nonchalance.

Second Prince? Then where was the first prince? Ahh, of course. The first prince was the one who was going to ascend to the throne. He wouldn't be bothered to welcome her. Amu was a little curious though, to the Prince's appearance. She had overheard countless rumors about the enigmatic 'dashing' Prince; seeing as how his first official appearance would be when he reached the age of 21, which was sometime this year, Amu's interest was slightly piqued.

"It is my greatest honor to meet you all," Amu said sincerely as she bowed graciously. She was overwhelmed being acquainted with people of such high rank. She would have to get used to it since she was going to meet more of their kind in the coming days.

"You must have been taught proper manners by your parents, am I correct?" Tsukasa addressed Amu. She looked up at the handsome blonde man who wore a casual smile. Amu had suddenly realized that he and Prince Tadase looked somewhat alike. She wanted to look more closely but she was being addressed and she was obliged to reply.

"Yes. My mother personally tutored me." Amu replied. She didn't really like touching this subject but it had already been opened, she guessed she could only be as discreet as possible. Not that she really knew her past anyway.

"And is she well?" Consort Souko asked politely.

"She and my father passed away three years ago." Amu replied indifferently. Facts were facts. She had faced this long ago.

She looked at the consort and saw that her eyes had widened a fraction. Amu had seen this reaction often when she uttered this sentence to passing acquaintances.

"I am very sorry for your loss," She said apologetically as she covered her mouth with the sleeve of her robe. There it was again, in the eyes of everyone who heard about her past – sympathy. Amu in truth, hated it when people showed her pity. She didn't need pity nor did she deserve any after the hardships she endured to fend for her sister. Amu unknowingly clenched her jaw.

"It's no matter, my Lady." Amu reassured her. It was no matter; it had happened in what appeared like an eternity ago to Amu. That night still seemed so unrealistic – even the fact that she was still alive but she didn't question it anymore. She was alive, she was breathing… and so was Ami – so what was the use of thinking 'if I was dead –'?

Amu had gotten a glimpse of Tsukasa as she shifted her gaze slightly. She was surprised to find an apologetic yet knowing smile upon his face. So he was aware? Did that mean that he purposely opened this topic? Amu felt slightly angered yet she somehow knew she was being tested. Not just by this man but also by the Emperor, who she realized was actually scrutinizing her carefully.

Amu stood much more erect than before. Steeling herself because she sensed that working as an official was going to be much harsher than she originally thought. It seems like her outer facade would be of use here. She had to accept it. This was the world of the nobles and she had already decided to enter it herself; she was already at a point of no return.

"You are dismissed," The Emperor said audibly, shaking her from her thoughts. "You shall return with Tadase and Utau to the Manor along with Souko and have dinner together with them. You shall accompany Utau to her performance after that." He added swiftly as the meeting came to close. Nikaidou bowed courteously in acknowledgement of the order.

"Sanjo, will this be acceptable?" he appealed to green haired aide beside him with a bit of uncertainty.

Sanjo Yukari nodded. "Yes, Princess Utau does have a performance tonight. If we follow your orders, she should arrive fully prepared."

The Emperor turned back to Amu. "Work hard." He advised her calmly with an expectant smile.

"I will most definitely, your Majesty." Amu replied with confidence.

-OoO-

Utau looked at the young pink haired girl kneeling before her. All in all besides her hair, the girl named Hinamori Amu was as plain as a clay pot – utterly dull and ordinary. She didn't know what Kazuomi – her father that is – was thinking suddenly giving her an incompetent looking aide. Hadn't he learned? Most of the people whoever became her aides lasted only a month or two at most. Wasn't this girl going to end up the same?

Don't judge a flower by its appearance Utau, even the prettiest flowers can bite you back she remembered him telling her a long time ago – when he still paid attention to her, that is.

Ikuto.

Utau wondered what he was doing at the moment. Was he sleeping under the shade of some tree in the Palace Grounds? Or was he staring at the sky on the roof of some building? She was worried he might catch a cold – no, she shouldn't care about him. After all, he hardly cared about her or noticed her now… but she still couldn't get him out of her mind. His name kept repeating in her mind just like droplets falling from the branch of a tree.

Drip. Drip. Drip. Drip. Drip. Drip. Drip. Drip. Drip. Drip. Drip. Drip. –

Ikuto. Ikuto. Ikuto. Ikuto. Ikuto. Ikuto. Ikuto. Ikuto. Ikuto. Ikuto…

Utau had been taken back to reality when her father had told her to go with Amu, Tadase and Souko back to the Royal Manor. She nodded, not really paying attention but she did hear that Tadase had wanted otherwise.

"Father, if you would allow me to speak," Tadase said quite determinedly. The Emperor looked back at him with a puzzled expression the same expression was mirrored in the faces of the others including Utau. Utau watched as he took a deep breath and nervously intertwined his hands.

"If I could… could you allow me to remain here and watch you work?" he asked in a slightly quavering voice. The Emperor contemplated for a bit then slowly shook his head.

"I'm sorry Tadase. I cannot allow you to." He answered clearly in a flat voice. Tadase's eyes widened slightly. "If I may ask sir, but why aren't I allowed to observe?"

"It should be alright. Shouldn't it, Kazuomi?" Tsukasa suggested but the Emperor shook his head once again. The Emperor sighed and replied.

"It not as simple as it seems, Tsukasa. You have to consider human nature."

"Would you mind elaborating your previous statement?"

This time the Emperor turned to face Tsukasa. "I know you are not a fool, Tsukasa. You know just as well as I do what I meant by that." His face was forming a light smile but the tone of his voice conveyed his order quite clearly.

It was something along the lines of 'Don't fool with me Tsukasa. It's only right for you to agree. My decision is final' Utau was quite amused by scene unfolding before her. In the midst of this small exchange Utau had seen that her new aide, Amu, had turned away and pretended to admire the room. She smirked; at least the girl had some tact dealing with nobles.

"It would be better for you to continue your lessons in your spare time, Tadase." The Emperor suggested in a light tone. Tadase looked a tad dejected at this statement as he bowed his head. "Of course Father, if you say so," He said in a forced – Utau noticed – eased tone.

"Then I shall accompany him to the Manor to allow him to have dinner before we begin our lesson. Won't you be joining us, Kazuomi?" Tsukasa inquired curiously, addressing the Emperor with that uncharacteristic ease.

"I would love to, but I must refuse. I still have business to take care of. I will see all of you later when at Utau's performance." He replied promptly. "Do not fret, Sanjo and Nikaidou will accompany me until I finish my work. We will have dinner together." He added patently.

"Then we shall be on our way," Tsukasa said as he motioned for Tadase, Hinamori, Souko and her to follow him. Hinamori Amu followed swiftly yet elegantly at the same time, Utau noticed. For a girl the same age as Tadase, maybe she wasn't so clueless after all.

-OoO-

Amu was once again in surprised as she entered the Royal Manor. Because it was the personal quarters of the royal family, she had expected it to be grandeur and extravagant but, the building she had entered was simple – simple and yet utterly sophisticated at the same time. It showed that her perception of noble's tastes was quite flawed, Amu realized. She had always assumed that nobles preferred their homes made out of the finest and most expensive materials, but it seemed they actually preferred elegance over extravagance.

When she entered the Manor, it was almost as if she had entered a traditional Japanese home – except much more superb. The corners and walls of the halls were lined with calligraphy, paintings, flower vases and other simple pieces that seemed to further accentuate the house.

"This is the Manor," Tsukasa said grandly as he gestured to the inside of the Manor.

"It's splendid, far beyond all my expectations." Amu replied graciously. The entrance ended in a wide spaced waiting room decorated just as beautifully as the corridor they had passed through. There were tree five doors all in all connected to that one room. Utau went through one door and Tadase through another, while Consort Souko remained with the two of them.

"I shall be taking my leave then, Tsukasa." She announced as she turned back towards the door. She gave a lovely smile and addressed Amu.

"It was a pleasure meeting you, Hinamori Amu. Please take care of my Utau." She spoke candidly and Amu unknowingly gave a smile of her own in return.

"I will do my best to not let you down, My Lady." She replied with a bow.

"Then I shall be on my way. I hope you have a pleasant evening." She replied finally as she gracefully stepped out of the Manor. Amu was left staring at her curiously. When she turned back she saw that Tsukasa had been observing her.

"You must be befuddled as to why she left." He had guessed her thoughts so accurately. He was no ordinary man. Amu was beginning to understand why he was the Head Judge of the Imperial Court.

"There is a building nearby where all the consorts of the Emperor are lodged together. She is not well liked by the other consorts because of Kazuomi's preference for her, but she decided to deal with the matter on her own. She even forbade Kazuomi to interfere," He said with very fond expression.

"Is there any reason for telling me this information in particular?" Amu asked pointedly. She still had not decided whether to trust this person or not. Ever since she was left alone with only her sister, she found it hard to trust anybody at all.

"Yes. This is information is vital for when you deal with other consorts. Hinamori, please remember that in the Palace – manners and interaction are the most important to do an efficient job. You should be able to deal with any situation skilfully so as to not be criticized by your elders, especially since you are an official at such a young age." He explained succinctly without adding any unnecessary details.

"I'm grateful that you are looking out for me but there is no need for you to go out of your way, Sir. I prefer to handle things on my own. If I reach an irreversible situation, I will readily accept the consequences," Amu said, unfaltering. Tsukasa chuckled at her serious expression.

"I see. I will leave it up to you then. Shall I begin with the tour?" he asked, moving the flow of the conversation so adeptly. Amu nodded in agreement.

"Tsukasa pointed to the first door on the left where Tadase had passed through, "Those are the Prince's quarters, where Tadase and the other Prince you've yet to meet, sleep in neighboring rooms," Next he pointed to the door beside the previous one – the one which Utau had passed through "That is the Princess's quarters. That is where you will be staying in the room adjacent to Princess Utau's. You will follow after her when I have finished your tour of the Manor."

Then he pointed to the single room in the center with the most elaborate door, Amu could already guess who stayed in that section. Her guess was confirmed when Tsukasa spoke. "That – is Kazuomi's room." Then he moved onto the next. "That is the door to the rooms where the aides reside. Nikaidou, Yukari, and Kairi sleep there."

"Kairi?" Amu said inquisitively.

"Sanjo Kairi. He's the First Prince's personal aide and he's also Sanjo Yukari's – the lady you met before – younger brother, but I would avoid mentioning that small detail to the person himself." He added.

"I understand." Amu replied and Tsukasa had easily heard her wordless message. She was saying that he could leave it at that. "Then why aren't I sleeping there?" Amu asked politely. Tsukasa smiled in reply, he observed that she too, was adept at changing the flow of the conversation.

"Because all three rooms are currently in use so the only option is to place you beside Utau's room." Amu nodded in understanding. It really was a logical reason, what was there not to understand? Then Tsukasa finally pointed to the last room. "That is the guest hall where I currently stay." He said cheerfully. Amu assumed that there was no one else with him.

"Each of those doors lead to the dining room and the library which are right beside each other if you ever need to visit any of the two. There are also other doors which I assume you would prefer to discover by yourself," He said cleverly. It seems he had already adapted his responses to her personality. What a cunning and shrewd man, Amu thought.

"Would you like to explore the Manor on your own? Dinner will be ready in quite a bit but you're free to wander around on your own." He suggested. Amu contemplated then replied.

"I shall take you up on your offer then, Judge Tsukasa." She replied calmly.

"There's no need to be so formal. You may simply call me Tsukasa."

"I cannot do such a thing." Amu replied resolutely and Tsukasa gave a sigh.

"I see. It can't be helped then. Shall I leave you to yourself?" he asked and Amu nodded. He turned and gracefully entered the corridor to his room. She was left staring after him for a few minutes before she decided to go through the Princess's hallway to the library.

She walked into the wide hallway and saw that were fewer decorations in this part of the house. The Princess must not like ornaments that much. Amu took slow but steady steps down the hallway. As he passed one door a firm voice stopped her in her tracks.

"Hinamori Amu." Utau called out her name with a slight irritation, Amu noticed.

"I don't really expect much from you but the only thing I want you to do is stay out of my way and not be a bothersome ignorant commoner," She said lazily, almost as if she wasn't openly insulting Amu to her face. Amu clenched her fists and kept her voice even as she replied.

"As you wish Princess, I will do my best to stay out of your way." Amu knew the best way to deal with nobles like her was to just do what they wanted. It was no different for the Princess it seems since she just huffed in reply. She decided to take this as a sign that she was dismissed and walked towards the library. She needed a bit of solitude for now.

-OoO-

Tadase lightly ran his hand along the spines of the old books on the worn shelf in front of him. The smell of aged paper always calmed him. He sighed as he brooded over his father. He understood what his father was worried about. It would be bad if people thought he intended Tadase to inherit the throne by letting him observe his work rather than the real heir.

He gave another sigh, randomly pulled a book out of the shelf and decided to take a seat behind the lone wooden desk. He slowly opened the book, not bothering to read the title. He turned to the first page and his eyes only scanned the words; he didn't or more like he couldn't comprehend what he was actually reading. For once, the sentences looked like straight lines to him without any meaning at all.

"Is it really so wrong for me to want to be Emperor?" he said aloud, giving up trying to understand the words before him. He pressed his fingers against his temples; he always thought too much whenever it concerned his father. He sighed once more and a voice intruded.

"Excuse me, Your Highness but if you're to continue on like this, you're sure to have a life of complete misery," A female voice said quite concernedly. Tadase's head snapped up from the table.

He turned to the immediate source of the voice. He looked at the dim entrance where he could make out the figure of a girl leaning quite stealthily by the doorway. The figure stepped forward into the light of the chandelier above.

The bright pink hair of a girl who was his age glittered strikingly under the light. Her feminine features became more defined as she approached him. He noticed that she looked quite exquisite up close. Her hair looked almost silver from where Tadase was seated and her eyes which were a deep gold looked intelligent.

"I'm sorry to intrude so suddenly," she said apologetically. "But you were sighing so much I was afraid you would lose all your happiness." She explained quite embarrassedly, at this Tadase was bewildered.

"Why do you say so?" he asked out of complete curiosity.

"Well there is a myth that whenever you sigh, you lose a little bit of happiness," She said simply as she stood just in front of the desk.

"Really?" Tadase asked, quite amused at such an unbelievable myth. He began to wonder whether she really believed it or not – this Sakura-haired girl.

"Yes, I frequently hear this from my younger sister. She scolds me because of it. I suppose I reacted by instinct when I called out to you. I really didn't mean to interrupt your privacy. If you want, I could leave now –" Amu began to suggest but Tadase cut her off.

"No. Please stay. I could use some company," He said good-naturedly with a genuine smile. She caught his attention with her first words and now he was quite piqued by her. He was beginning to wonder what kind of girl she was.

"Then, please excuse my intrusion," She said as she took a seat by the table that Tadase offered to her. "Would you permit me to ask something?" she said inquiringly. Tadase nodded easily.

"Do you like garlic?" she asked out of the blue. Tadase's brows knitted together, was this something country folk usually asked someone on their first meeting? If so, it was a little strange and Tadase couldn't help but reply with a question.

"Why do you ask?"

"Well, you are reading is books on the different uses of it aren't you?" she said as she pointed to the book which lay open before him. "I read it before when I was looking for a remedy for colds." She added as she looked more intently at the book.

His gaze followed hers and when he scanned the page in front of him, he realized that the book was indeed about garlic. A smile formed on his lips and before he knew it he was chuckling at his own foolishness.

Amu looked confused at his reaction. "Is something the matter, Prince?" she asked. Tadase had to take a few minutes to calm down and stop laughing.

"It's nothing. Forgive my sudden outburst. I was simply amused at my own folly." This further baffled Amu. "Anyway, would you care to tell me why you chose to come here?" he asked, easily changing the flow of the conversation.

Amu decided it would be better to follow his lead. "I needed some time to think on my own," She said prudently. This reply made Tadase smile.

"It seems we have like minds. I suppose we'll be companions starting today," He said with pleasure. Amu blinked in surprise.

"Companions?" she asked.

"Yes. Companions – or you may call it friends. Do you not want to?" he asked innocently with pleading eyes. Amu looked quite torn.

"It's not that I don't want to, but I couldn't possibly have such a relationship with the Second Prince of the country." She replied steadfastly to Tadase's surprise.

"Why not?" he asked, a tad disappointed at being rejected straight out.

"Because you are a Prince and I am a mere aide. I couldn't possibly connect myself to you in such a way. It would be best to keep our relationship as master and servant," Amu said coolly. Tadase bit his lip. He always disliked it whenever people said that sentence to him. That was the reason why he always had few friends. What did it matter if he was a Prince if he would never be able to ascend to the throne? he thought gloomily.

"I see," He replied quite dejectedly. As usual, people just pushed him away because of his title. She seemed to have noticed the change in his countenance for she said something to make it up to him.

"But Your Highness, if you ever need assistance feel free to approach me," she said quietly. He looked at her and saw that her face held a bit of guilt. It seems she was had trouble socializing with people, he wondered why but he would just have to keep trying then. She may not be his friend yet but maybe she would allow him to call her one when they reach further in their acquaintanceship.

"Well –" he was about to give a reply when the library door creaked open and Tsukasa swiftly entered. He looked unsurprised to find both of them there. He approached their table with ease and spoke gently.

"It's dinner time. Come," He said as he gestured to the door. He waited for the two of them to rise from their seats before he turned and made a smooth exit in the same way he had entered.

"I look forward to our next chat, Hinamori." He addressed pleasantly as he made his way to the door. When he was about to take a step out he turned back and talked to her. "And about the words you heard me speak. Please keep it a secret," He said as he placed his index finger over his lips, without waiting for a reply he turned back and proceeded to the dining room.

She didn't seem like a bad person but she was somehow withdrawn when she interacted with people. Well, it was no matter. He would just have to do his best to penetrate through that invisible barrier she had around herself, he thought decisively.

-OoO-

Amu entered the location of the performance together with Utau, Tadase and Tsukasa. She was walking behind Utau who was side by side with Tadase and Tsukasa. She counted the number of guests she passed as concluded that there were only a dozen – but those dozen were business associates of the Emperor, most definitely high class nobles. These people were practically at the top of the food chain and she was actually breathing the same air as them. She was beginning to feel the weight of responsibility her position put on her.

She and Utau proceeded to the preparation room together with the other waiting ladies. In the waiting room Yukari Sanjo greeted them and ordered Utau's preparations to begin immediately. The two of them stood against one side of the room watching the progress of work in the room.

"Were you told the overall plan for the evening?" Yukari Sanjo inquired, talking to her for the first time.

"Not specifically. Only certain details."

"I see. Shall it brief it for you?" she asked civilly and Amu nodded.

"I'm sorry to trouble you." She replied politely.

"The plan is that Princess Utau is to perform once the Emperor, the First Prince and the Second Prince have arrived. After the performance a meeting together with the Imperial Judge is to be initiated. Your main duty is to accompany the Princess at all times and to make sure she returns together with the Second Prince to the Manor after the performance. The First Prince and the Emperor are the only people from the Royal Family allowed to attend the meeting."

"I understand. Thank you for your explanation."

"It's no matter. If it will ensure the smooth progress of the night, a small explanation is nothing." She replied deliberately. Amu only nodded in reply.

So that was Yukari Sanjo's character – she was the type who liked to do all her work competently in whatever way she could. If it weren't for her dedication to her work she probably wouldn't even have bothered with her.

"Hinamori Amu." Utau called out from the chair she was seated on. Amu came forward promptly in reply to her summon.

"Be sure to bring me fresh tea after the performance. You can do something as simple as that right?" Utau asked pointedly as her hair was being arranged meticulously. Amu nodded and replied with a courteous bow.

"As you wish, Princess."

"Good then. I expect a tea to my liking, Hinamori Amu," She said with a slight smirk.

Without telling her any of her preferences she purposely told her this. She was provoking her, but she wouldn't lose so easily.

"Yes." She replied calmly "Please excuse me. I shall go and prepare the ingredients immediately." She said politely and Utau simply waved, not really caring what she did or where she went. Amu stepped out into the hallway in which he ended up bumping into Tadase. He caught her and steadied her.

"Are you hurt?" he whispered worriedly.

"I'm fine." She replied mechanically and gazed into his eyes filled with worry. "But Prince, what-" she began to ask but he had placed his hand over her mouth to silence her. He held her wrist and gently tugged her away from the door of the preparation room.

"I excused myself for a bit to come and see you," He said whispered in a low voice again.

"What did you need to see me for?" she asked deciding to match her tone with his.

"I came to give you some advice." He whispered pleasantly with a smile.

"Advice? On what matter?" Amu felt her brow knotting together as she gazed at the blond Prince standing before her.

"Regarding Utau's preference for tea – you have to know that she always drinks her tea with a hint of mint and milk in it."

"How do you –?" she began to ask but it he already knew what she wanted to ask.

"It's the test she always gives to her new aides. You are her 11th aide so far and she has always made this the first task to each of them." He replied promptly.

"I see. Thank you for your advice, Your Highness. There was no need for you to trouble yourself for my sake."

"That's not so."

"It's not?"

"No, I've taken quite a liking to you and I would prefer if you worked here for good," He said honestly.

"I'm honored that you would want me to stay but would it be alright for me to ask you to only give me advice when I ask it of you?"

"Why so?"

"Because if I become too dependent on your advice without really trying to discover things by myself, I'm afraid I will become an incapable aide."

"I see. Alright then. I will only help you if you ask it from me," he said simply.

"Thank you very much." Amu replied as she bowed. "Your Highness, shouldn't you be heading back? They might be looking for you," She said as she gazed towards the door to the meeting room. He smiled.

"I believe you're right. I will see you later then," He said good-naturedly

"Yes." She replied right away. Tadase bowed to her then turned and walked back.

Just as he exited, the door to the preparation room opened and Yukari Sanjo stepped out.

"Oh, it's good you're here. The performance is to begin soon. You shall accompany Princess Utau to the stage now. The First Prince will be arriving soon too."

Amu walked right behind Utau as they made their way towards the stage in front of the seats reserved for the Royal Family. Utau was as beautiful as rumoured, she was lovelier up close and her clothes only further emphasized her exquisiteness. Already seated on stage were Emperor Kazuomi and Tadase who smiled encouragingly as they approached – Amu wondered where the First Prince was, it would be such a shame that she could not meet him personally. When Utau stood at the very center of the stage, only then did the doors open noisily.

Two people strode into the room with poise and grace. One was a green haired boy who looked her age and who looked strangely like Yukari Sanjo – the other was a familiar blue haired boy who looked quite bored as he took leisure steps towards the stage.

"Ikuto!" Utau muttered under her breath, Amu had barely caught it.

"Your Highness!" the people greeted him and he nodded lazily in reply.

"It's him!" she whispered in disbelief as she continued to ogle the boy walking towards her direction. He and his aide soon reached the spot where she was told to wait and their eyes met. He gave a knowing smile and continued up the stage without a word.

"Forgive my tardiness. I did not mean to make you wait so," He said as he bowed before Emperor Kazuomi.

"It's no matter. We're glad you decided to grace us with your presence," Kazuomi said deliberately and the blue-haired young man smirked in reply.

You'll find out soon enough was what he had said. And now she was completely flabbergasted as she gazed at the dashing blue-haired young man. The First Prince of Seiyo. The heir to the throne, Prince Tsukiyomi Ikuto. The two of them – were definitely a world apart.

-OoO-

Endnote: Whoa, this chapter is extra long – my longest so far! :D I'm finally moving on to my 4th year in high school! I'm so happy that I wrote this chapter as a gift to you, dear reader and to myself too! Woot! Goodbye junior year, here we come 16 year old seniors! Haha! :D A – NYWAY PLEASE REVIEW! Whatever you can say about this story I want you to write it in a review because I'd love to know what you think about this chapter! Thanks in advance and happy graduation to whomever out there just graduated!

P.S. You might be wondering why Tadase is Hoshina Tadase and why he's the son of Kazuomi but that will all be explained in due time. Hopefully I'll be able to gradually give you the answer. :)

P.P.S.Also, this chapter might not be so good since I lost a little motivation at the last part of the chapter. Forgive my laziness, it kicked in when I took a break – a long break… so anyway. Just review if my hunch is right that the last part is a little lacking. I'll be waiting *grin*