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Post by hinorei on Nov 14, 2014 15:31:41 GMT -5
Rei shook her head as Luna spoke about going to their fitting and leaving Serenity to the mercy of Earth's inhabitants. Makoto voiced her displeasure as well, but before any of them could react a strange figure grabbed the Jovian Princess by the arm and bragged about returning Serenity while flinging bile and insults at them regarding their rolls as Serenity's guardians. The Princess of Mars' exhaustion quickly turned to anger. Who was this person who dared speak to them that way? Did someone else already know about Serenity's disappearance? If so, had they been purposely deceived into thinking Serenity was ill and at rest in her room?
Before she could say a word, the person rushed out of the room. Adrenaline pumping through her veins, Princess Rei leaped to her feet to join the Jovian Princess in her pursuit. But their chase ended before Rei could even take her first step as the royal seamstresses wedged through the door and blocked the way. Frustrated, the Princess of Mars returned to her seat, joined a moment later by Princess Makoto. Her deep purple eyes shifted to Luna, ignoring the overly bubbly seamstresses greetings to them.
"Luna, do have any idea what that was about?" she asked, trying her hardest not to sound accusatory towards the feline. Her view was suddenly obstructed as a wispy older woman stepped in front of her and handed the Princess of Mars a folded red gown.
"Princess Rei would you please change into this? I need to pin the hem and make sure we left ample room for your bust."
With a slow sigh and a great amount of concentration so as not to rudely snatch the satin bundle from the woman's hands, Rei accepted the gown and stood. Once again able to see Luna, she addressed the black cat once more.
"It looks as though the four of us are going to be stuck here for a while. Would you please check on Serenity for us?"
[Tag: Minako, Makoto, Ami, Luna]
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Post by Usagi_Tsukino_Kagetsu on Nov 15, 2014 20:34:05 GMT -5
Minako sighed. “I can understand your frustrations Makoto, but I also understand what Luna is saying.” She frowned. “We could create a far more complicated situation by trying to find the Princess without more information.”
She opened her mouth to try to add some semblance of next steps and comfort to the other women, who she knew where just as concerned as she. But, before she had a chance, an onslaught of spicy words and criticisms flew.
“How dare you!” She hissed, trying to cut into the unknown figure’s strong entrance. “Take your hand off her!” She growled, about to take a step forward to force the action.
Motionless. It was as if the wind had been knocked out of her. Had she failed in her duties as a senshi so quickly? Had they forsaken their Princess? Were they too soft?
Her eyes could only watch the others spring forward to defend their honor. In her insecurity, her mind pulled her back to a memory. She was tangled in her fellow Princesses’ arms. Serenity laughed with them, expressing how much she loved and valued each girl’s unique friendship and personality. She spoke about how important their diversity as a group would be, to challenge each other and support each other without question.
Minako took a few steps forward, plucking her ball gown from one of the aides’ hands. “We’ll discuss all of this later.” She said carefully. “But, I never want any of us to question who we are. We were chosen by the Queen and our Princess for who we are.” She added softly as she followed the other girls to change into their dresses. “We can’t let some stranger knock our confidence and strength.”
She returned to the Common Area as calmly as she could. Her fingertips clenched the soft layers of fabric as she neared the seamstress. "Perhaps we can hem the dress line another inch. With all the layers to this gown, it's quite a bit to carry." She chuckled, some semblance of her being flustered remained in her tone. She felt personally responsible for the words tossed at each of the girls.
Her mind wandered: How should they all truly embrace their new role? How would they address this issue with Serenity? Posture slouched and her foot tapped at her own impatience. "Ouch!" She gasped as a needle poked at her leg.
"My apologies, Princess! I was beginning to hem your gown." The woman frowned.
[Tag Makoto, Rei, Ami]
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Post by Usagi_Tsukino_Kagetsu on Nov 15, 2014 20:37:39 GMT -5
Serenity's head nestled deeper into the soft confines of the pillows about her. Shifting, her legs curved at the knees and her calves rubbed against one another. Her eyelids fluttered as her cheek dipped against one of the pillows; the cold feeling of the fabric against her skin brought her ocean blue eyes back to life.
She sat up slowly with apprehension, bringing a hand to her forehead. ‘What happened?’ She thought, trying to piece back together the last moments she could recall: the wind, the sweet smell of grass, and the warmth she had found felt so far away.
“Endymion.” She murmured. His sapphire eyes and gentle demeanor clung to her every thought. What would become of him and that citizen? What if the bear attacked again? There was so much left unsaid between the two. She found him refreshing and inspired. Yet, she feared her sudden disappearance could not be forgiven. She had tried to run from him so many times in so many ways. He probably thought her a coward, disappearing without notice at the first opportunity.
Back in the safety of her room and all the familiarities that went with it, she thought it all had been a dream. She swung her legs away from the mattress, her bare feet padded near her floor-length mirror. There stood a reflection in disarray—disheveled hair matched the grass and water stained state of her dress.
No. It all had really happened. She had fled to Earth. She had dreamed about making such a trip many times, but her restlessness had finally pushed her past the point of simply dreaming.
“How did I get back here?” She half whispered.
A wave of concern washed over her, fingertips delved into the side pocket of her dress feverishly. The reality of her actions and the looming unknown of how she arrived back brought a flush to her cheeks. As she clutched the metal pocket watch she let out a deep breath. She was relieved it had not been found or confiscated.
“Oh no! I’m late!” She hissed, noticing the time. She quickly moved the treasured object back to its hiding place and then slipped out of one dress and into another. She hopped about trying to re-braid her hair and slip into a pair of pink heels.
She tore out of her room and down the corridor, giving kind glances to each guard she passed. The flowing fabric of the pale green gown danced and waved behind her. She flung the door open to the Inner System Princesses’ common room and hurried within. Her arms dangled at her sides, shoulders slumped forward. She spoke and tried to catch her breath simultaneously. “I’m sorry I was unable to greet each of you when you came.” Her head bowed in respect, tone apologetic.
As gaze fell upon the raven-haired princess from Mars, a flicker of concern rose back in her. “Rei-chan… are you not well?” She questioned. The woman looked tired, pale even.
She turned to one of the seamstress’ aides. “Avry, will you please have some tea made and brought in for my friends?” She questioned kindly. Her composure was coming back and her facial expression softened. She took a few careful steps towards the girls, admiring each’s unique gown.
[Tag Rei, Makoto, Ami]
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Post by Princess Jupiter on Nov 16, 2014 0:11:56 GMT -5
With nowhere to go, Makoto’s bubbling rage slagged into sullenness as the seamstress, historically critical of Makoto’s less dainty figure, encouraged her to try on her ball dress.
Frustrated over Luna’s inhibitions to saving Serenity, being insulted by a completely unknown….asshole, and now needing to prepare for the one thing she had actually been dreading since this morning was almost too much for her overwrought nerves. Makoto felt she would hurl lightning bolts from her eyes if she looked at anyone, so she avoided eye contact and took the gown as if it were prison garb.
Despite Minako’s sound advice, the intruder’s insults swirled around her head like a gathering storm as she pulled the dress over her tall figure, Perhaps it would be in your best interest to spend less time baking cookies…
Why was Makoto here? She had been raised to eventually take this position in Serenity’s honor guard as the representative of Jupiter and pledge of unity to the royal heritage. It was true she always felt unsuited for the dignity and reserve that was expected of a Jovian Princess. Her tutors and even parents were often after her feisty and tomboyish nature, saying it was not appropriate for the Imperial family. Her mother was more understanding, nicknaming her “Storm-chan” since she seemed to embody the fierceness of the storms that Jupiter was most known for, but Makoto knew she hoped she would one day grow out of her need to fix everything with brute force.
Makoto had looked forward to the time she would finally be away from the crushing expectations of the Jovian throne and here as guardian and protector of Serenity. The chance to reinvent herself and maybe make use of those skills that were not appreciated when clothed in royal dress. Makoto felt Serenity was much better Queen material than Mako herself would ever make and she was happy to support her in that role, even if only as muscle and grit...and cookies.
But not even a day in, they lost Serenity and were basically told, “Don’t make the problem any worse by doing anything.” It was frustrating and infuriating…the same type of advice she would get back on Jupiter. What was the point of coming here if she was going to be treated the same way? Makoto just wanted to cry. But as she felt her eyes moisten, she took a deep breath and promised herself that she would take out her frustration later in a less embarrassing way.
She returned to the seamstress after donning the long and flowing green gown that reminded her of home and tried to think of all the fun it was to dress up. She was sitting with the seamstress trying to look aloof when Serenity herself bustled into the room. Mako’s eyes lit up, then fell downcast again. Makoto felt ashamed…but she quickly considered that she didn’t want Serenity to see her looking gloomy at their first encounter since the last time she had been on the Moon. With another deep breath, she looked up and smiled, trying to allow the genuine joy of seeing Serenity to cover over the pain she was feeling from her conflicting emotions.
“Serenity, it’s wonderful to see you. I’m glad…I’m sure we all are, to see you’re feeling better!”
Tag: Rei, Minako, Ami, Serenity
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Post by hinorei on Nov 17, 2014 14:23:06 GMT -5
Rei heaved a heavy sigh as she pushed open the door to her room and began slipping out of her dress. As frustrating as it was, deep down she knew Luna and Minako were right. There was no subtle way for them to sneak down to Earth and look for Serenity without drawing attention to themselves. And, truth be told, she herself knew so little of the citizens of Earth. As the guardians of the Moon Princess, they would have to figure out a better way to keep track of her. Perhaps, when they had a chance to be alone with her, Serenity might enlighten them as to what it was like on the planet closest to the Moon Kingdom and how she managed to sneak on and off of it. And as far as that mysterious stranger was concerned, screw them. They answer to Serenity, not some insult spewing asshole. Carefully donning her mostly finished gown, Princess Rei carefully slipped into her red heels and began heading for the door when she caught a glimpse of herself in her full length mirror and stopped. Her hands instinctively released their tender grip on the fabric and her eyes took in the design and layers of the gown. For the first time since arriving at the Moon Kingdom, the Princess of Mars felt the pangs of homesickness. The gown comfortably hugged her form in the gothic style that was popular on her home planet and the beautiful contrast of the black lace embroidery against the blood red fabric reminded her of the formal gown sometimes worn by the High Priestess. Artfully done, her gown was a reflection of the strength and passion of the people of Mars and simply looking at it filled the Princess with a combination of pride and sadness. Her ruby lips curved into a smile and her sadness dissipated. This was just another sign of Serenity's love. Carefully gathering the satin fabric in her hands once again, the Princess of Mars reentered the common room. Her seamstress smiled, quite pleased with herself and quickly tested the fabric around her bust and hips to make sure the fit was comfortable, then knelt down and began hemming the skirt. A moment later Serenity entered the room and greeted everyone and Rei could not help but smile despite her frustration at the Moon Princess' earlier disappearance. Instinctively, she moved to greet her friend but was caught by a firm hand on her left calf. "Careful Princess Rei. I need you to remain very still." Reluctantly, Rei obeyed the older woman.
"It's good to see you Serenity. I'm fine, really, but thank you for asking," she said with a smile. It was the truth. She was feeling much better and would soon be back up to speed, though she was certain she would sleep very deeply tonight.
"How are you feeling?"
[Tag: Minako, Makoto, Ami, and Serenity]
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Post by Usagi_Tsukino_Kagetsu on Nov 19, 2014 10:42:22 GMT -5
“Hm. I’m feeling well, Rei-chan and Mako-chan.” Serenity nodded. “I’m just…a little tired I’d say.” She added truthfully.
Ami outstretched her left arm as one of the aides tugged at the pale blue sleeve. "We'll bring this up about a quarter of an inch." She said, rolling the smooth fabric and pinning the correct length into place.
"Serenity, aren't you getting your dress fitted today?" She questioned, following the lead of her fellow Princesses. Now was not the time to ask Serenity about her trip to Earth.
"Oh." Serenity grinned slightly, shaking her head. "I had my dress fitted yesterday." She smiled. "Honestly, I don't know how you all stay so still. Even without you here, I was pinned several times." She frowned as the lead seamstress who worked with Makoto chuckled, validating Serenity's statement with a careful nod. "Many times indeed."
Serenity remained quiet for a time, wishing to not distract her friends and the seamstresses from their work. “Your gowns are quite lovely.” She said, sliding back into a nearby chair.
“I know today must be a hard day for each of you.” She admitted, her gaze shifting between each of the girls. “I know each of you are sacrificing a lot to support me. I hope to never disappoint any of you.”
The relative silence was broken up with clatter of many porcelain teacups and saucers bounced about as a women animatedly rolled them into the center of the room.
“Mm. Thank you so much for this!” Serenity said with much gratitude. The heavy braid swung and bounced with her movements. She plucked a cup and saucer from the tray and then slid back into the chair.
The position of her body was quite symbolic of her current internal struggles. Her legs were tucked casually to the side, yet the upper half of her body sat up tall and politely with the posture befitting a Princess.
“Don’t you love this space?” She questioned, her ocean blue eyes took a moment to drink in all the little treasures within the design. It was rewarding to finally see it all come to life and the girls to be within it. “I so want this to feel like home for you. To really feel like home.”
She tipped the cup toward her pale pink lips, letting the liquid cover her tongue and then slide down her throat. One hand rested gently underneath the saucer, holding the scene into place. She let in a slow breath as the feeling of warmth and comfort continued to travel through her body.
It reminded her of him.
Her fingertips curved about the cup carefully, holding it closer as her mind slipped back to the memory of him.
‘I hardly know you, but I want to know you more.’ She thought.
A loud clatter caused her to gasp as she had let go of the saucer. At impact, it broke into several disjointed pieces. “I’m so sorry! What a mess.” She winced, quickly setting the cup on a nearby table. The broken pieces rattled angrily on the ground before stalling, lifeless.
“Princess, we’ll get someone to clean that up for you. You shouldn’t have to do it.” One of the aides said, as she had finished with Minako. “You can slip out of that gown—well, all of you can. We’ll do a final check for fit tomorrow afternoon.” She said, kneelling before Serenity and helping her dispose of the mess.
[Tag Rei, Makoto, Luna]
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Post by Princess Jupiter on Nov 19, 2014 14:39:20 GMT -5
Makoto chuckled lightly, knowing how normally it was hard for her to stay still as well. She attributed her stillness now to her sullenness, but even as she thought that she shifted and received a pin for her trouble. Serenity’s presence was immediate balm for the soul—it was just hard to be in a bad mood around her.
At length, the seamstress straightened and nodded, “There we are. You’re free to go, Princess Makoto.” Mako thanked her briefly and stood up, admiring the work in a mirror along the wall. The main body of the dress was tight and brought out her proportions well, but came with long sleeves and a flowing shawl which obscured details. Jupiter formal fashion loved anything that made people look stronger and more mysterious.
She gave it a twirl for effect, smiling slightly and the sensation of the fabric catching the resistance of the air. That made her feel better. She gave another look at the other Princesses in their own colors and raiment. Serenity was right, they all looked wonderful. As a group, what couldn’t they accomplish? They’d figure out these mysteries soon enough and then crack the deserving heads.
She sat beside Serenity, “It’s amazing,” she said, responding to Serenity about the senshi’s common quarters, “It’s like you’ve brought all our worlds together in one place. The colors, the facilities,” she said referencing the kitchen, “—oh yeah!”” Mako chuckled, “We left you a gift from the kitchen in your room. I hope you’ll get a chance to enjoy it later.” Makoto grinned, forgetting already the loophole she left open if anyone noticed.
She took a cup of tea gratefully with both hands when they arrived. The hot liquid relaxed her and she almost felt this ball would not be so big a deal. She was pondering the types of people she would see there, and if she would meet anyone special, was a sudden clash jolted her to her senses.
“Serenity?” she asked questioningly, tilting a curious glance at her, “Are you sure you’re feeling alright?” She got up and replaced her teacup on the tray, moving away from the crash so that she wouldn’t get in the way of the servant. She pulled back her sleeve and touched Serenity’s forehead with the back of her hand, “You are feeling a little warm…”
Tag: Rei, Minako, Serenity
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Post by Usagi_Tsukino_Kagetsu on Nov 20, 2014 17:43:01 GMT -5
Serenity remained hunched over the myriad of pieces, plucking one at a time from their resting place on the ground. She shook her head. “My mess. At least let me help.” She offered, gently placing some of the pieces into the woman’s hand.
She froze, realizing she had just been caught in a lie. Her eyes widened and ears perked up with Makoto’s seemingly simple statement. Her arm remained in an odd position, floating just above the ground, the last broken saucer piece clenched gently in her fist.
Her eyes trailed slowly from the ground and up to meet Makoto’s gaze. She closed her them momentarily, feeling her breath catch in her throat as the woman placed a hand tenderly on her forehead. “I… I’m merely tired.” She said, some apprehension flooding her tone.
The servant tapped at Serenity’s closed hand. “I’ll take that last piece, Princess.” She said, some concern in her tone.
Serenity opened her hand that now trembled slowly. Her gaze never broke from Makoto’s. Curious. Had she really been in such a rush that she didn’t see or smell her friend’s delicious cookies? That was so unlike her.
The servant let out a grunt as she pulled herself up from the ground and bowed. “Have a nice rest of your day Princesses.” She offered before excusing herself.
Serenity bit the tender flesh of her lower lip as her gaze panned to the scene behind her, the seamstresses tugging away the mostly finished gowns.
All the unsaid words were springing from her ocean blue eyes, like waves rushing forward and retreating back.
‘I know that you know. Was it you all that brought me back here?’ She thought internally. Her posture straightened some as she thought more upon it all.
“I think we should go to the Laconia. We can share in a bath and speak more about our days…freely.” She bowed her head, tearing her gaze away from them. Had she frightened or concerned them? Would she be punished for breaking the laws? Did her mother know?
Hiding just below the surface was the concern all the Inner Princesses had for Serenity. Had she been wrong to think Rei was tired? It was more. All of their eyes were saying more. She knew they had questions. It was only right that she answer… as much as she could at least.
But public bathing was quite common on the Moon. In fact, Serenity's suggestion to have the girls prepare for their evenings together, without the aid of servants was quite an act of respect. She would treat them as equals—exposed and honest with each other. She had to make this statement to them. She didn't want them to feel like what she had done had anything to do with them. She would be their handmaidens tonight. She would ensure they were prepared for their evening.
“Luna, I trust you’ll make arrangements. Let the bath house girls have their evening. Just have them prepare and leave the oils and shampoos afloat in the west end. Then we’ll truly be alone.” She advised, letting Luna get ahead of things, so they could make the most of the rest of the time they had together this day. With the ball nearing that next evening, Serenity wanted to make sure they had plenty of time to prepare for their introduction ceremony. She frowned, realizing she hadn’t even mentioned that to them. But, she would tackle one moment at a time.
[Tag Rei, Makoto, Ami, Minako, Luna]
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Post by hinorei on Nov 21, 2014 11:23:21 GMT -5
Rei watched Serenity's reaction when Makoto mentioned the plate of cookies. The Moon Princess knew she'd been caught. At her mention of a communal bath, the Princess of Mars nodded.
"That sounds wonderful. It will be nice for the five of us to have some alone time so we can catch up."
The seamstress hemming her dress stood once again and tugged lightly at the thin shoulder straps to make sure they were properly in place, then stepped back take in the whole dress.
"That should do it," the older woman said with a smile. "Go ahead and change out of it so we can have it pressed and ready for the ball."
"Thank you," Rei said with a nod before walking back into her room.
She kicked off her shoes, then carefully slipped out of the dress and laid it across her bed. She then picked up the soft red dress she had been wearing earlier and slipped back into it. After sliding her feet into a more comfortable pair of shoes, Princess Rei crossed the room to her wardrobe and opened the carved double doors. Hanging on the inside of the right door was her black with red trim satin robe. Her hand gently grasped the cool satin fabric and slid it off of the brass hook. Draping the robe over her shoulder, she then made her way over to her dresser and selected a fresh pair of undergarments, folding them neatly and slipping them into the pocket of her robe. She then laid the robe across her bed and gently picked up her ball gown, folding it as best she could, then headed back out into the common room and handed the gown to the seamstress. The woman bowed as she accepted the gown, then knelt to finish putting her supplies away.
While Rei waited for the others to finish, she accepted a cup of tea from the servant and sipped it quietly.
[Tag: Minako, Makoto, Serenity, Ami]
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Post by Usagi_Tsukino_Kagetsu on Nov 21, 2014 16:36:55 GMT -5
[Hey all Inner Princesses. I'm moving folks on to next spot. So if you want to do any recapping, feel free to incorporate those things into your next post!]
A white satin robe slid off her shoulders and down her back as she peeled it away from her lithe frame, setting it aside. She lifted her neck and closed her eyes as she took her first few steps into the laconia’s warm waters. The water splashed and rested about her waist. She paused, her arms bent at the elbows and her fingertips fluttered against the water’s surface as she continued to let its warmth surrounded her and calm her.
The laconia was a spacious dome with sturdy columns supporting its perimeter. Large metal bowls filled with fire hung against its lofty walls, gently illuminating the space. But looking above, a wide circle, where all the walls tore away to the open sky. It was the Moon’s heaven, an endless galaxy of twinkling stars.
The actual pool was a large circle, lined with underwater benches. The floor of the pool dipped, with its deepest part in the center of the circle and was naturally more shallow as one moved on to the outer edges.
Serenity brought her hands delicately about the ribbon holding her braid together, and with a snap of release, her long golden locks were free. She swept her fingertips through her hair, loosening the braid as she continued to sink deeper into the water with each step.
Her knees bent as she fully submerged herself, after a moment below she popped back up, letting out a content breath. Her hands swept over her face, brushing her long wet hair behind her shoulders. She waded forward to a floating, two-level shelf of sorts that held various oils and shampoos. She moved it closer to the center of the circle.
“So, I guess we should begin at the beginning?” She questioned, raising a brow. “But it would help me to understand what you know and what you don’t know about my brief…disappearance?”
Internally, she braced herself for the onslaught of questions. She’d have to be careful. She promised she would support and protect him. She’d continue to do that in a careful retelling of her time on Earth. They didn’t have to know he was a Prince. Just that he was a person, a humble and strong man.
She smiled lightly, thinking Endymion would like such a simple and informal classification of self.
Her gaze lifted to the stars. It was always a breathtaking view. She was always inspired looking out into space, so full of light. But somehow, it was different. A part of her yearned for the wind, the trees, and the sweet smell of grass—they were different beauties.
[Tag Rei, Ami, Makoto, Minako]
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Post by Princess Jupiter on Nov 21, 2014 17:12:48 GMT -5
Makoto stepped back from Serenity with a doubtful expression and exchanged looks with her fellow princesses before it dawned on her that what she said had triggered the new mood, “Ah..” she gasped in realization and then covered up a flinch by scratching her forehead, “I’ll get changed then.”
Mako retreated to her room with her foot mentally in her mouth. She was just as curious as everyone about what the hell was going on between Serenity’s disappearance and the ninja could-be spy, but Serenity’s reaction made her feel like she had stumbled onto some secret of the Moon Princesses that she wasn't comfortable with. Considering how comfortable she made them all feel, the last thing Makoto wanted to do was make Serenity herself uncomfortable.
She peeled the dress from her body, making sure all the markings and pins were in place before folding it over and placing it on the bed and went to her drawer. Being that the planet Jupiter was so big, there was a greater allowance for privacy and space for people, so something as intimate as family bathing wasn't ordinary. She had been exposed to it on the Moon though, and thought she was mostly comfortable with it. She often couldn't help but compare herself with the others physically…but that was her problem, not her friends. Though nervous, she was looking forward to the chance to symbolically and physically lay aside all her defensiveness. She got redressed in something much less formal and rejoined the rest, passing off the formal gown to a seamstress.
Makoto leaned back against the sloping edge of the large pool, her chin resting just barely above the water surface as she looked to the stars and allowed the hot water to steal away the day’s many tensions. Serenity’s question broke the surface of her settling consciousness. She answered, surprisingly, with a quiet and almost dreamlike quality without even lifting her head, “All we really knew is that you were missing…”
That state was short-lasting however as the sting of remembered insults caused her to shoot up with a bit of splash, exposing her torso to the cold air as she balled her hands into fists at the memory, “it was some weirdo in a blue cape that told us you were back. An arrogant…S-O-B," she censored herself, not wanting to cuss before Serenity so casually, "Who was that?”
Tag: Serenity, Rei, Minako, Ami.
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Post by Usagi_Tsukino_Kagetsu on Nov 24, 2014 10:51:12 GMT -5
Serenity nodded to Makoto’s general statement of not knowing much more than her being absent from the Moon.
In hopes that the other girls would grow comfortable in this moment, Serenity started with Minako. She took a few steps forward, wrapping her hand firmly about Minako’s arm, she gently tugged to move the woman toward her. Briefly, Serenity wrapped an arm loosely about her friend, pulling her close. Her chest rested about the woman’s back.
“I’m glad you’re here Minako.” She said softly and affectionately against the woman’s ear. She then brought her fingertips into the woman’s long flowing locks within her hands, pushing the hair back behind the woman’s shoulders. With a few twists and flick of her wrist, Serenity used the ribbon on her wrist to tie up Minako’s hair in a loose bun.
She turned, plucking one of many glass bottles from the floating carrier before bringing her hands. Of all the Princesses, Minako’s upbringing and culture was closest to Serenity. Because of that, they shared a very close bond.
“No… I do not know of any navy cloaked figure.” She said after a time, some perplexity washing over her expression. “I thought one of you… or all of you had found me and brought me back.” She shrugged. “I guess I don’t really know how I got back here. I just woke up in my room – like it was all some silly dream.”
She tapped the glass bottle upon a sponge that also rested within the carrier, dropping the sponge into the water before she brought it back quickly. She kneaded the liquid and sponge together until it reached a lively lather. She slid the sponge from her left shoulder blade to the right. Then she moved it down the woman’s back, carefully rubbing against her skin in gentle, circular motions.
“I saw you all this morning as you trained. You all have grown so much in your powers since I last saw you. You all seem so grounded and confident.” She offered, continuing to focus her efforts on Minako. “Like you, I have powers, but mother doesn’t support them. She won’t let me train with you. I sometimes feel like a useless, ticking time bomb. I don’t want to hide away and be protected, I just want to stand with you all as equals – as we are here and now.” She sucked in a deep breath as she replaced the sponge in her hand with a large, teal pitcher.
She swept it across the surface of the water and then gracefully moved to pour out the contents over Minako’s chest, shoulders and back – to wash away the lather.
“We spoke about alliances and politics… and I just became so frustrated with all of it. So disconnected from a heartfelt and transparent relationship, all she talked about were games and politics… I had heard the Earth invited us to a Spar match… so I set out to attend it. To see something with my very own eyes and to cultivate my very own opinions.” She blushed, scraping her hands through Minako’s hair, pulling down the lose bun, as she motioned for the girl to wet her hair.
“I’ve just felt so restless lately.” She said, exasperation clearly in her tone. “All mother’s years of experience make her impossible. She doesn’t want to see a new way of doing or thinking. I wanted to break out of a shell that feels like it’s hardening around me – doing what is necessary to be my own person.”
After a time, her fingernails rubbed gently against the woman’s scalp and down through the ends of the golden locks of hair.
“I never intended on meeting or interacting with anyone from Earth. I just went to be a quiet spectator.” She insisted. “It was quite interesting, maybe a tad barbaric to put such violence on display. But, the warriors were impressive…like you all.” She offered. Pausing momentarily.
“Was it selfish of me to go?” She questioned, wanting their honest opinions. “Childish even…” He words trailed off as she rinsed out the last bit of shampoo from Minako’s hair and moved on to applying a lilac smelling oil to her upper body. Her fingertips cupped the woman’s shoulders and moved slowly from their down her arms, gently applying pressure.
[Tag Makoto, Rei, Ami, Minako]
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Post by hinorei on Nov 24, 2014 11:28:33 GMT -5
As the warm waters of the bath enveloped her body a deep sigh escaped Rei's ruby lips. These communal baths were something she was originally uncomfortable with, but being among her closest friends helped her overcome her uneasiness. On Mars, baths were for one person to indulge in quiet contemplation, while here on the moon they were almost viewed as meeting places and social gatherings. She listened to Serenity speak of visiting Earth, of attending a tournament, and of how she didn't know who the cloaked figure was while the Princess of Mars rested her head on the edge of the bath.
"We knew you were on Earth. After we discovered you were missing, we searched for you. I performed a fire reading and that's how we discovered where you were."
Rei sat up, leaning forward and gently splashing some water on her shoulders.
"Earth is dangerous, Serenity. You should not have gone alone. If you wanted to go so bad you should have... wait, why were you unconscious?"
The relaxing warmth of the bath faded as the sudden realization came over the Princess of Mars. Her deep purple eyes filled with concern as she studied Serenity.
[Tag: Minako, Makoto, Ami]
OOC: Lol, sorry! I hadn't seen Serenity's post so I fixed mine!
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Post by Usagi_Tsukino_Kagetsu on Nov 24, 2014 12:52:49 GMT -5
“Oh.” Serenity said softly. Rei was always so mysterious. Calm and relaxed at the surface, but some of her cold and calculated traits tipped up at Serenity like ice. “You’ve really grown in your abilities, Rei. That’s impressive… I’ve always wanted to see you read the flames.” She opened her mouth to give another word of praise, but Rei’s following statements about Earth stung her bitterly.
“That’s my very point.” Serenity scowled. “How do you know Earth is dangerous? How can we categorize and pass judgments on places we’ve never been? What would you do if people were saying the same thing about your home planet?” She questioned, tilting her head to the side with a frown.
“I know what others say of the Moon. If you had never met me, would each of you had come to this Kingdom to serve some pretentious Princess, who would order you in her biddings, never treat you as equal, and try to push her ways and her traditions on you?” She recoiled from Minako, her shoulders curving forward as she grew emotional. “I know you don’t think that.” She said softly. “But I know many do…” She turned away from them, splashing a hand at the water before crossing her arms.
“Come here, Ami.” She said, trying to piece back her composure. Bringing the blue-haired woman into a soft embrace and beginning to bath her just as she had done with Minako.
Her lips pursed, the wheels in her head spun fiercely, trying to determine the best way to approach her next few words. “At the end of the tournament, I left the arena. I wanted to see Lake Kosuke. It’s a public place, near the Earth Palace.” She brought a hand to her chest momentarily. “I just wanted to see the wind play throughout the trees, real trees and… well, I met a man.” A gentle crimson began to spread on her cheeks. “He helped me find the Lake, told me more about Earth.” She said, stumbling in her words.
“It was quite enchanting really.” She said, her expression softening as her gaze pulled away from the girls and off to her own thoughts. She shook her head, blinking as she lifted her shoulders, waving a hand. “The landscapes, flowers, and such I mean.” She clarified.
“Our conversation was cut short. An animal…thick brown fur… sharp teeth… possessed and raging.” She grew animated, making a ferocious face for the girls as a look of contemplation crept over her. “It was… a bear…he called it a bear. It tore into the scene, coming straight at us after having attacked a man.” She recalled. “The man who escorted me… he tried to protect me… but he was without his armor since we had been wading in the water together.”
The crimson grew across her cheeks as she grew flustered. “I didn’t want to get hurt and he had been so kind…I so desperately wanted to protect him.” She admitted, stopping to let Ami move back to her former position.
Her gaze fell onto Rei and Makoto, a hand gestured to whomever wanted to go next.
“I don’t know how exactly, but he helped me… I was able to use my powers to stop the bear… and after that he went to help the other citizen… and I… I must have passed out.” She paused.
“I’m not used to using my powers,” She reminded them, her story coming back to that same starting point about her inability to hone and control them.
“It doesn’t even matter at this point. I’m back aren’t I?” She shrugged her shoulders. “Are you ready Rei?” She questioned, seeing if she was ready for her turn. “And, we have so much to do before tomorrow’s ball. I haven’t even mentioned your introduction ceremony… to court.” She pursed her lips.
[Tag Rei, Makoto, Ami, Minako]
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Post by Princess Jupiter on Nov 24, 2014 16:49:53 GMT -5
An expression of disappointment grew over Makoto’s features when Serenity mentioned she did not know the cloaked figure. It made him so much more mysterious. And annoying. Makoto wanted another chance to have at the “navy spy” and show him that they meant business in protecting their Princess…and that she would cook him in the oven if he dared insult them again.
She lowered herself back into the pool and watched Serenity as she continued to explain her day. She moved with such an ease and grace as she caressed her fellow Princesses. She really did treat them as equals. The fact made Makoto a little uncomfortable because she didn’t feel she really deserved such tender care. She wanted to earn Serenity’s love and she felt she had done nothing yet to garner it.
Yet, the Jovian princess connected with Serenity’s take on her own mother and politics. Makoto felt herself nodding silently along with the Princess’ points. She understood, as they all did, the expectations of their parents on their royal inheritance. Perhaps they all felt the strain of wanting to be their own person within those confining roles. Mako had relished the idea of being off Jupiter to escape that very thing. It was now that she realized her freedom was at the price of assisting Serenity to perform her royal duty. But, she determined that she would support Serenity’s claim to personal happiness come hell or high water. She deserved it, since the bore the heaviest burden of them all.
“You’ve given everything for this Kingdom…” Makoto said wistfully, imagining that she would respond the same way to being told not to do something because of danger, “I can’t agree that it’s childish or selfish to want to enjoy some of the things that this universe has to offer. Though Rei’s right…it’s dangerous to go alone. Stereotypes are one thing; Jupiter is just thought of as being big and stormy…but you were almost mauled by an earth creature. Next time, take us with you, huh?”
Makoto grinned subtly as Serenity continued her story, “A man, huh…? You take a secret trip down to land of trees and flowers, meet a cool guy, and protect him from a vicious creature. Sounds like my kind of story…” she finished with a glimmer of longing in her eyes, “What was his name? Was he all rough and tumble or refined and noble? I want details!! …as payment for making us worry about you.” she finished with tone of teasing affection.
Tag: Serenity, Rei, Minako, Ami.
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