Setsuna's Sun Prince

Hi y'all. It is time for part three of this interesting fanfic. As always, I do not own Sailor Moon. She belongs to and is the creation of Naoko Takeuchi. The following story is a work of fiction.


Setsuna's Sun Prince


Chapter 2:


A New Gameplan


Setting: It has been a couple of weeks since The Sun Prince had captured Sailors Mars and Venus. Right now Serena and the remaining scouts are trying to find out where their lost friends are being kept. With only Lita and Amy's eyewitness accounts to go on, Serena and crew are getting frustrated with their failures.

Takeru and Osmia had moved out of the apartment they shared. The two evil powers had found an abandoned mansion and moved in. While exploring the mansion, Takeru had found numerous secret passageways hidden in odd locations.

After renovations, Taki had released Sailor Mars and Venus into two separate rooms that connected to each other by way of a well-appointed sitting room. The rooms that they had been locked in reeked of Darkmoon power. Raye and Mina could not find a way to escape their captivity. They were able to communicate with each other though. For the majority of their captivity, Takeru had left his two prisoners alone; gloating over them whenever he visited their lavish dungeon. For the most part, Taki was trying to figure out whom he should capture next.


Setsuna Meioh sat at her favorite coffee shop pondering the way things were going. She had viewed the recording from Takeru, n ton to her by Serena and the remaining inner scouts. Those girls weren't happy about the way things were going. Her first reaction to the news and the viewing was one of anger. However, Setsuna didn't show it. Outside she was calm and radiating confidence. Inside, anger warred with betrayal. Anger at what she had seen and heard, betrayal at what her former lover had done.


For the past few days, all eight of the remaining scouts had kept a sharp watch for an attack by Takeru and Osmia. Darien had been trying to figure out some of the other secrets of the sword given to him by his former friend.

Today, Setsuna had felt like she needed to get out of the house. Leaving a message for Hotaru, Michiru, and Haruka she explained what she was doing and where she was going.

"Why did he do this? What is he trying to prove? Who is he going after next?", thought the Princess of Pluto.

"Thinking hard Setsuna?", asked a voice from behind her.

Setsuna's heart skipped a beat. She recognized that mellow tone and the smoothness of that voice. As she heard it, Setsuna felt a flash of longing. She also felt a smidgen of anger.


Takeru slid into the opposite side of the booth. Reaching under the table he grabbed her hands gently to keep her from activating her communicator. Wearing a blue turtleneck shirt and a pair of jeans, Takeru watched as Setsuna realized she couldn't move her hands. Applauding her resolve to not let him see her react, Takeru grinned.

Setsuna looked at the man who she, at one time, was considering a life with. She still felt that way. When he grinned, Setsuna's heart gave a leap and her pulse quickened. She still loved him even though he was evil. Setsuna told herself that she find a way to change him back into the loveable oaf she knew before.

"I am surprised to see you here. I thought you would be out capturing the others.", quipped Setsuna.

"What makes you think that I haven't captured the next one.", returned Takeru.

"I don't think that you would want to make it that easy for yourself. You still care about me even though you side with what is left of the Dark Moon family. Besides what makes you think that this isn't an elaborate plan to capture you."

"I know you about as well as you know me. I figured that you would want to see which order I capture the scouts. Maybe you are mysterious to the other scouts but you're somewhat transparent to me.", smirked Taki.

Setsuna didn't say anything. She knew when he had her beat. Taking a sip of her coffee, Setsuna waited for him to give the real reason why he had appeared. Takeru gave the waitress his order for a glass of tea. He waited for his tea to arrive before he continued to speak.

"I bet you are wondering why I am here interrupting your respite. Other than the fact that it amuses me to keep you off stride, I have a very definite reason.", stated the sun prince as he adjusted his sunglasses.

Setsuna indicated that he should continue with a miniscule nod of her head.

"I unfortunately have a formal engagement tonight. The invitation stated that I should bring a companion. I decided to ask you because I felt that it would be better than bringing Osmia. I don't want to leave my two prize possessions unguarded. You or the others might try something foolish. Like attempting to rescue them.", said Takeru in a silky smooth tone of voice.

Taking another sip of his tea, Takeru showed Setsuna a projection of Raye and Mina. The emerald haired princess subtly flinched. Then, leaning forward she sees that the two inner princesses are indeed okay. Looking at the globe of energy, Setsuna noticed that Mina and Raye are no longer in their sailor scout fukus. Instead they were dressed in evening dresses reminiscent of the Silver Millennium.

Raye was wearing a fiery red off the shoulder silk evening dress with matching high-heels. Setsuna thought it matched the fiery temper of the Mars Princess.

Mina was in a full-length yellow dress with a matching Bolero jacket. She had a pair of golden yellow low-heeled shoes on. Again Setsuna thought it appropriate.

"So are you convinced that I am treating them alright?", questioned the curly-haired prince.

"Yes, the only question I have is: why are they dressed that way? Is there a reason?", replied Setsuna, answering his question with one of her own.

"I felt that it maybe better if they were able to relax. Each of them has their own room and a closet full of clothes. You still haven't answered my original question."

Setsuna pondered it for a moment before agreeing to go with him.

"I'll go only on one condition: you let Raye and Mina go."

"Now you know I cannot do that. Besides I like the challenge that it affords me in hunting you all down and catching you. The only thing I can promise is that I will save you for last."

After his statement, Takeru finished his tea, winked and then disappeared in the growing crowd. Setsuna was a bit caught out and started to say something. When she looked he was gone.

"Damn that man, he is so frustrating.", thought the Princess of Pluto.


That evening, Setsuna sat in front of the vanity mirror in her room. She was recalling the conversation with Haruka, Michiru, and Hotaru about what had occurred earlier that day:


************Flashback: earlier that afternoon.************

"YOU DID WHAT?? WHAT POSSESSED YOU TO AGREE TO GO OUT WITH HIM?", questioned an obviously pissed off Haruka.

"I can understand your anger. But I must do this; I believe that I can find a weakness in him that we can attack and exploit. Right now we need every little bit of an advantage going against him. I am not worried about Osmia. I am worried about Takeru because I know him. Or at least I knew him. Calm yourself Haruka.", said Setsuna calmly as she brushed her hair.

Michiru and Hotaru were sitting on the couch. Haruka continued pacing the living room. In a fit of pique she whirled and threw her helmet at the empty love seat with such force that the love seat moved back a few inches.

"I do not understand, Setsuna. Takeru already said that if we interfere he would consider us an enemy. Now he is asking you to be his companion at some formal event that he has to go to. What is keeping him from using this as a ruse just to spirit you away to the same place he holds Sailor Mars and Sailor Venus?", asked Hotaru.

Setsuna smoothed the fabric of her purple skirt down over her legs as she pondered the question. Haruka, tired of pacing, threw herself into the open chair across from her friend.

"I feel the tides changing. Maybe it would be good for Setsuna to go with Takeru. Although I do not like the fact that she will be alone and without back-up.", Michiru said into the silence.

"Well did you tell Serena and the other scouts about it? I bet you didn't because I know what her answer would be. She would say that you do not need to do this.", said Haruka brusquely.

"That is where you'd be wrong. Serena and I discussed it earlier and she agreed because of the what we could learn.", stated Setsuna.

"I still don't like it."-Haruka.

"You are too valuable and Prince Takeru knows it. He also knows how much an advantage he could reap if he did capture you."-Michiru.

"Don't go Setsuna, it worries me."-Hotaru.

"To calm all your fears, Takeru told me that he had decided that I will be the last for him to capture if we do not stop him. And even though he is now working against us, I believe him and that is the end of this discussion.", said Setsuna as went up to her room.

************End FlashBack************

Now, hours later, sitting in front of her vanity mirror Setsuna brushed her long, silky, emerald tresses. She had decided to wear a floor length jade green dress with full sleeves. Setsuna chose this dress because it was a simple design. The other reason she chose it was because how similar it was to a dress she wore during the Silver Millennium. Back then she had vowed that she would only wear it for her beloved.

After the attack on the Moon Palace and the subsequent disappearance of the sun prince, Setsuna had destroyed the original dress. Never once having gotten the chance to wear it for him. Putting the finishing touches on her hair, Setsuna heard a car pull up. Glancing out the window she saw a dove gray Mercedes Benz limousine sitting in the driveway across from the front door. As she watched, the chauffer stepped out of the car and went around and opened the passenger side rear door. Setsunareatreath caught on her throat as she watched Takeru gracefully climb out the car.

For his part, Takeru had a part of his mind working on whom would be his next target. He thought about attempting to capture the moon princess and her daughter but abandoned that because he figured that that is what the scouts would be waiting for. Striding to the door of the house, Takeru pressed the doorbell. The door opened and he came face to face with an angry Haruka.

"I don't know what your plan is but you have a lot of guts to ask Setsuna out like you did. I don't like it. I promise you that if she doesn't make it back here unharmed tonight, I will personally find you and gut you like a fish. Then I will stand back and watch as you die. That is a promise.", stated Haruka in a low and threatening voice.

"If it isn't the ever entertaining and loving Haruka Tenoh. I am happy to see that you are your normal self.", replied Takeru.

The light brown-haired princess from Uranus just grunted.

"Sun Prince Takeru, at least I am happy to see you. Even though we are now on opposite sides in this conflict.", cut in Michiru trying to avoid a confrontation.

The water princess of Neptune extended her hand and giggled as Takeru accepted it and kissed the back of it.

"Why hello Michiru, I am charmed to see you. Unlike Haruka, I actually enjoy seeing your face.", said the sun prince smoothly.

Takeru noticed that both Haruka and Michiru were dressed for the evening also. The princess of Uranus had on an off white tuxedo with a yellow rose in the lapel, while her significant other wore a dress of shimmering satin the color of seafoam.

The bright lights in the foyer caused the sequins to twinkle. He asked the duo about their plans for the evening and was rebuffed by the still angry Haruka. Michiru told him that they were going to attend a party for one of her orchestra friends.

Upstairs, Setsuna saw Hotaru standing in the hallway. Hotaru had heard Setsuna's door open and had turned in its direction. Setsuna noticed that the young and powerful princess from Saturn was worried. Crouching down as far as her dress would decently allow her, she wrapped the girl known as the sailor scout of destruction in a gentle hug.

"I am worried about you, Setsuna. I hope he doesn't do anything dangerous to you.", murmured Hotaru.

"I know you are Hotaru. But I must go with my instincts on this one. Right now my instincts are telling me to go and enjoy the evening with him. I will be ever alert though. If he tries something dangerous, I will put a stop to it.", said Setsuna.

Releasing the hug, Setsuna gestured to the staircase with a glove encased arm and indicated that the two scouts should head downstairs. Together they walked down the staircase.

Takeru was still having a conversation with Michiru as Haruka looked on. He could feel the tension radiating from the other scout. By now they had moved from the entryway to the living room. Takeru stood with his back to the door while Michiru had sat down on the love seat and Haruka stood nearby. Takeru was just about to say something when a vision of loveliness draped in jade made its way down the stairs. Not being able to speak, Takeru just watched as Setsuna came down the stairs with the elegance he had come to expect from her.

Setsuna glided down the stairs and was satisfied at the reaction she had gotten from Takeru. At the bottom of the stairs, she had to fight her own reaction to her escorts' choice of apparel. The Sun Prince was dressed in a black tuxedo. Even from where she was standing, Setsuna noticed that the whole tuxedo was silk. From the double-breasted waistcoat to the full-length black cape with a light jade lining. With his matching bowtie, in her eyes he looked sensuous.

"Good evening Setsuna. You look simply ravishing tonight.", complimented Takeru quietly.

Haruka looked sharply in the direction of the smitten man.

"You better kyouryour 'ravishing' thoughts to yourself. That dress better be in the same condition when she gets home.", grumbled the princess of Uranus.

Casting an eye at Haruka, Setsuna stepped off the last step and walked forward. In her wake followed Hotaru. Stopping in front of the chocolate skinned gentleman in front of her, Setsuna reached out and adjusted the light jade shawl that was wrapped around his neck. As she leaned in close to him, she caught a subtle hint of his cologne.

"This is a surprise, he never wears cologne. Or he never did during the Silver Millennium except for very rare moments.", thought Setsuna.

Stepping back from her escort for the evening, Setsuna tensed as Takeru made a motion with his hands. After a moment of fear, she relaxed as she saw the bouquet of roses in his hands. Taking a quick glance around, Setsuna noticed that she wasn't the only one who had reacted. Haruka and Michiru had separated in opposite directions. Haruka's right hand was reaching inside her tuxedo jacket while Michiru had gone around behind her. Hotaru already had her transformation pen in her hand and was about to initiate her transformation. (She's quick don't you think?).

Seeing their reactions, Takeru laughed.

"Calm down everyone, calm down. I gave my word that I wouldn't attack either of you tonight. And I intend to keep it. I know better that to attack you in your own house. That would be stupid of me.", chuckled the amused prince.

Extending the roses out towards Setsuna, Takeru took a slight step forward. Setsuna accepted the roses and put them in the crook of her arm. She was surprised when she felt a gentle hand pinning something to the front of her gown. Looking down, Setsuna saw a single white rose sitting over her heart. As she looked closer she could see hints of orange on the rose petals. Takeru moved his hands again and three separate carnations appeared. Eflowflower was long stemmed. Taking care not to move to hastily, he handed one to Hotaru. Moving on to Michiru, Takeru handed the next carnation to the fair skinned princess from the planet Neptune. Michiru smiled as she accepted the carnation and inscribed a shallow curtsey to the prince.

Finally moving over to Haruka, Takeru placed the last flower in the vase that was on the end table next to her.

"I don't care what you think of me in the long run, tonight I just want to not worry about things. You can bury the hatchet, or try to, in my back at a later date and time. Tonight I just want to enjoy the evening."

"Granted, tonight there is nothing between us, Sun Prince Takeru. But in the future, beware of my wrath.", retorted Haruka.

The tense moment passed and Setsuna was able to relax. Stepping over to Takeru and entwining her arm with his offered elbow; Setsuna said goodbye to her friends and gently started walking him to the open door. Once out of the house, the couple strode down to the chauffer and the open and inviting door of the Benzino.

Setting the pace, Setsuna slid into the warm leather interior of the car. Making room for Takeru as he slid his frame into the car, Setsuna slid a few inches over. Situating herself and watching as her one time lover and fiance‚ situated himself, Setsuna once again felt the emotions that he stirred in her.

After closing the door, the chauffer went around to the drivers' side. Getting in, he twisted the key and the big 12 cylinder engine fired to life with a muted rumble. After idling for a few minutes to let the engine warm up, the chauffer engaged the gear lever and selected drive. The car moved away with almost no noise. The couple in the back was silent, each remembering better times.

With the awkwardness of a couple that had been away from each other for a long time (understatement), Takeru and Setsuna turned towards each other and started to speak at the same time. Realizing their faux pass, Takeru indicated that Setsuna should go first.

"It has been a long time since we both went to a formal engagement.", quietly quoted Setsuna.

Inwardly cursing the twinge of nervousness she heard in her voice, Setsuna waited for his response.

"Yes it has. I occasionally still miss those times.", responded Takeru.

The couple had gradually and unconsciously moved closer together. Each of them desiring the inevitable, but neither willing to be the first to initiate the contact they both so desired.

"When I first saw you that day in the park, I was astonished. I was ecstatic to see that you were still alive but saddened to see you working for the enemy. After your disappearance, I transported myself to the Time Portal. I was so devastated that I did not know what to do. I was in a stupor for many centuries until my power was awakened by a surge coming downstream from the future. Once I saw who it was, I was able to pull myself together and close off my emotions.", whimpered Setsuna quietly.

Unconsciously, Takeru felt himself enfolding the depressed princess into his arms. Setsuna flinched at first, then recognizing the beat of his heart she allowed herself to fall into the warmth of the embrace.

"What happened to you? Where did you end up and how did you come to be on Earth?", questioned Setsuna, her voice somewhat muffled by an arm.

"Right now I cannot remember. I only remember bits and flashes from the past. The majority of them are fuzzy but there are two, which stand out with their clarity. One is my feeling for you and the other is something dealing with the Prince oe Eae Earth.", replied Takeru.

As the limo moved through the streets of Tokyo to its destination, the couple in the back looked at each other with low-lidded eyes. Moving through no volition of their own, Setsuna and Takeru found themselves locked in a passionate kiss. This kiss awakened long-banked flames in both of them. The chauffer caught the entwined couple in his rear-view mirror and closed the privacy partition.

He was getting paid to drive not to spy on his passengers.

When they broke apart for air, Setsuna and Takeru realized that they were treading on dangerous ground. Two people: former lovers in the past and now were enemies in the present. Yet fires that they feared were out were now stoked to heights unparalled. Setsuna was the first to speak.

"It has been a long time since I felt that spark.", she said breathlessly.

"I feel as if I was dying of thirst and found a well of pure water and was able to sate myself.", added Taki just as much out of breath.


Looking slyly at the Sun Prince, Setsuna chuckled.

"I don't think I will be going home tonight Takeru.", smirked the emerald haired princess.

At first Takeru didn't get the statement.

Then when the implication of what she said sank in, Setsuna was treated to a sight that she thought she would never see.

Takeru had started to blush.

Across his chocolate skin, a faint reddish spot had started to spread. For the first time since his youth, Takeru was speechless. Luckily he was spared the need to answer because the Mercedes was arriving at its destination.

Pulling up to the queue of luxury cars in front of a well-lit mansion, Setsuna and Takeru's chauffer stopped the car and shut off the engine. Stepping out of the car, he headed around to the passenger side back door. Opening the door, the driver stepped aside as the tall male unfolded himself from the rear seat. Turning back to the car, he watched as his male passenger extended a large hand with slender fingers back towards the interior of the Benz. As his other passenger gracefully departed the car, the driver noticed that her pale pink lipstick had smudged. Glancing at the man now extending his arm, the driver saw a shadow of pink lipstick on the collar of the black silk tuxedo. Closing the door of the large car, the driver took out a small notepad and hurridly scribbled a note onto the topmost sheet. Tearing it off, he slid it inside the invitation and handed it to Takeru. Takeru accepted the invitation from the driver.

As he opened it a slip of paper fell to the ground. Picking it up he read the hastily scribbled note written there. Looking over at the driver who was studiously ignoring his passengers, Takeru smiled and pulled a started to pull a handkerchief out of his pocket, only to have the driver subtly hand him a moist towelette.

"Sir, this will work better than a handkerchief on that spot.", stated the chauffer.

"Why thank you. I take it that you speak from experience. I trust your wisdom sir.", replied Takeru with a small bow.

Setsuna watched the entire interplay between the two men. As she watched, the driver retrieved the now used towelette in a gloved hand. Leaving the couple behind, the driver disappeared toward a waiting area to dispose of the refuse in the appropriate location.

"What was that all about, Takeru.", questioned Setsuna.

Rather than answer, Taki handed her the note, which he had been given.

"Sir, it is not my business to question your choice in formal finery. But I have to let you know that there is a spot of lipstick on your collar.", quoted the note.

Setsuna smiled and returned his shawl to its location. It had slipped off his neck while the couple had shared the kiss in the car. In step and together, with Setsuna setting the pace, the pair arrived at the door. Before Taki could reach out for the handle, the door opened on its own in response to a signal. Glancing around the edge of the door, the couple spotted the very well concealed security camera. Stepping inside, Takeru and Setsuna were both ushered in by servants in formal livery. They found themselves moving down a receiving line accepting compliments from the liup iup important guests.

After moving through the reception line the pair found their way over to a side table. Each taking a glass of Sparkling Apple Cider and Sparkling Grape Juice from a tray bore by a passing servant. (The host of the party doesn't drink. Besides isn't Setsuna slightly underage??) Looking around after taking a sip of her wineglass full of cider, Setsuna spotted Darien and Serena standing and talking to another young couple. Indicating the small group, Setsuna made her way over to them with Takeru in tow.

"Hello Serena. I didn't expect to see you here."

Serena flinched slightly at the familiar voice. Turning she saw Setsuna and her present enemy a few feet away.

"Hiylo Setsuna. I am surprised to be here my self.", stated Serena excitedly.

By now, Darien had noticed the approaching couple as well. Seeing Takeru standing behind Setsuna, he felt a slight twinge of anger and stiffened. Feeling a small pinch on his hand, Darien relaxed and tried to be social.

Serena had felt Darien tense up and saw the reason. Hoping to avoid a scene, she had pinched him to make sure he remained calm.

"Hello Darien, so nice to see you again. Although I am surprised to see you here.", stated Setsuna as she brushed Darien's check with a chaste kiss.

"Nice to see you again to Setsuna. I actually wasn't invited but my friend Andrew knows the host a little bit and asked him to attend and bring couple of his friends. Andrew told me and I decided to bring Serena here to get her mind off of her recent problems.", replied Darien good-naturedly.

Turning to the couple standing next to them, Darien added:

"Andrew, Rita this is Serena's friend Setsuna and her close friend Takeru. Setsuna, Takeru, this is my best friend Andrew and his fiance`, Rita."

The two couples exchanged greetings. Soon Serena and Setsuna headed off to the powder room, while Rita and Andrew stepped out towards the dance floor. Now standing alone, the two princes regarded each other warily. Darien was wondering why the cause of the recent problhad had deigned to make an appearance at this event.

"Takeru, why did you come? I mean what possessed you to bring Setsuna instead of that other tart?", asked Darien pointedly.

"I felt that it would be better if I did bring Setsuna. Besides tonight I just want to relax and take my mind off of everything. To answer your question about I c I came, it is because I am a passing acquaintance of the host. I met him in the United States. When he found out I was coming to Japan he told me to look him up. So I did. A few weeks after I did, the invitation for tonight's soiree gala came to me at my job. Does that answer your question?", replied Takeru.

"Yes it does. It clears things up. A bit."

"Don't worry, I already promised Setsuna that I wouldn't attempt anything tonight. And unlike some people, I actually keep my word.", huffed Taki.


Mystified at the sudden change in Takeru's voice, Darien didn't ask another question.

By now, Serena and Setsuna had rejoined the two. Parting with promises to see each other a few hours later the two couples went their separate ways. Takeru and Setsuna went to find their seats in the dining room while Darien and Serena headed off towards the dance floor to join Rita and Andrew.


At Lita's house, Amy and Lita were trying to figure out the location where Raye and Mina were being held. They had been surprised as Serena when she told them of Setsuna's plan for the evening.


*Earlier*



"You're kidding, he asked her and and she accepted? Does she even realize that she could be giving him an excuse to capture her? I don't believe it.", snapped Lita when she heard the news.

Serena tried to calm her tall friend down and only partially succeeded.

"I know, I know; I told her it was a mistake but she wouldn't listen to me. I think she still has feelings for him.", retorted Serena.

Amy had been working on her computer for the past few minutes. Now she looked up from the screen. "Maybe she does, but that doesn't excuse her from safety. In fact, Takeru may try to take advantages of these feelings she has for him.", she stated.


*Present*


Amy had found a miniscule clue that could possibly lead them to Raye and Mina. Searching for anything new in the records, she had come across the purchase and refurbishing of an old abandoned mansion. Somethinout out the report had caught her eye and she had flagged it to peruse later. Now, at Li hou house, Amy had opened the file she had flagged. Lita was back in the kitchen putting the finishing touches on the dinner she had cooked for the two of them. They had guessed that it would be better if the two of them got together in one place so they could continue the search for their missing friends.

Coming back to the dinning room with two plates in her hands, Lita noticed Amy reading a file.

"What is it, you find anything yet?", she asked.

"No not yet. However during one of my earlier searches I had flagged a file that I thought needed a closer look.", replied Amy.

Sliding her Sailor Mercury palmtop computer out of the way, Amy made room for the plate. Taking a bite from her meal, Amy proceeded to explain what she had flagged and was now reading. Closing up her explanation she admitted how slim a clue it could be.

"Yeah that is slim, but at least it is something. We can tell Serena about it tomorrow. We'll let her decide what to do.", stated the brown-haired girl as she picked up the two empty plates and headed to the kitchen.

An hour or so later, both girls were fighting frustration and fatigue. In the file Amy had downloaded, the girls couldn't find anything that looked significant. All they had to go on was the address of the previously mentioned mansion. Deciding that everything else could be gone through better sometime the next day, Amy saved the file.

Twenty minutes later both Lita and Amy were asleep: Lita in her room and Amy in the guest bedroom.


Back at the formal soiree, Takeru and Setsuna had justisheished their dinner of Chicken Cordon Bleu. Every so often they fell into long forgotten habits of theirs from the Silver Millennium. Feeding each other and the like. Some of the other guests at the same table had been amused. Takeru found out that Darien,Serena, Andrew, and Rita had seats nearby. Takeru had wanted to dance but wasn't sure how Setsuna would react. Finally after making a decision, Taki asked Setsuna if she wanted to dance. To his surprise she agreed. Unknown to Takeru, Setsuna had also wanted to dance.

Making their excuses to their tablemates, the couple made their way to the dance floor. Once on the floor, Setsuna put one hand on his shoulder and let him clasp her other hand with his own. She watched as he put a hand on her waist. Waiting for a ge ige in the beat, the pair stood motionless. Once the beat changed, they gracefully moved off in time with the music. Setsuna felt the nervousness that Takeru felt. She was feeling the same nervousness. Outwardly she showed no reaction; inwardly Setsuna was so nervous it felt as if the butterflies in her stomach were the size of jumbo jets.

After a few false starts and missteps, the couple got used to each other once again. Across the dance floor Serena and Darien were dancing next to Andrew and Rita. The two couples had been having a conversation as they danced. As the music went on, Rita noticed that the couples around them had stopped dancing and were now looking at a couple in the middle of the dance floor. She pointed it out to Andrew, who informed Darien. Serena had overheard and in her usual manner suggested that they see what was going on.

"Okay meatball head. Since you are so curious about it we'll look.", quipped Darien good-naturedly.

"I told you not to call me that anymore.", retorted Serena.

"At least you are my meatball head.", returned Darien.

Serena said nothing and just frowned.

The frown disappeared from her face when Darien brushed a light kiss over the tip of her nose. By now the two couples had stopped dancing and where trying to find a way to see whom everyone was looking at. Finding an unoccupied spot, they turned their attention to the center of the gathering.

Much to Darien and Serena's surprise, the couple that had everyone's attention was Takeru and Setsuna.

"Hey, isn't that your two friends we met earlier tonight?", asked Andrew.

"Yes it sure looks like them. My goodness they dance divinely.", added Rita.

"Yes that is Setsuna and Takeru. I didn't know that they could dance that..... well. Even after all of these years, they still move as one.", answered Darien.

Andrew and Rita gave Darien a curious look, then turned their attention back to the pair on the dance floor. Taking his attention off the couple for a second, Darien looked for Serena. He found her not to far away talking into her communicator. Darien walked over and saw that Serena was talking to a sleepy Rini.

"Come on Rini, I need you to find Luna. I have a few questions to ask her."

"Oh Serena. It's late and I'm tired. I don't know where Luna is. Let me go back to sleep."

"RINI!, I need you to find Luna now.", scolded Serena.

Rini nodded and vanished from the screen for a short time. When she came back, Rini was carrying Luna by the nape of her neck. The cat looked just about as tired as the little girl did.

"Of all the... Serena what do you want. I was having an interesting dream.", snapped the black cat with the crescent moon on its forehead.

"Luna, tell me quickly, back during the Silver Millennium were Takeru and Setsuna known as pretty good dancers?", asked the blond-haired girl.

Darien stood behind his future wife resting a hand on her shoulder as Luna digested the question.

"Are you kidding, Setsuna Meioh and Takeru Corona were known as the best dancers in the entire palace. Nobody could compare or compete with them. I am afraid that even the Moon Princess and Earth Prince were not in their league.", replied Luna, her slight accent emphasizing the later half of the sentence.

Serena looked at Darien and saw that he was also into the report that was being given. Serena started to cut the connection but Luna held up a paw.

"One of the main things I remember about Setsuna and Takeru was that they had a favorite song. Every Crystal Ball the couple went to, your mother, Queen Serenity, always had this song played at the end of the ball. After a while all of the queen's subjects in the Silver Millennium knew that when the queen played that specific song for them only. Whenever this song came on, all the lights in the ballroom dimmed and a spotlight would shine down upon Setsuna and Takeru. What was the name of that song? Oh yeah I remember, it was called 'Moments in Love'.", Luna added.

"Thank you Luna.", said Serena as she rushed to cut the connection.

Darien looked at Serena and knew that there was some plan of hers in the offing. He started to question her but Serena kissed him and then rushed off to find their host.

When she found the host she asked him if he could dim the lights for a special song. Being the way he was, the host agreed and sent one of the members of his retinue to carry out the instructions.

After thanking the host, Serena went and found the bandleader. Requesting the song turned out to be no problem. Thanking the bandleader Serena hurried back to Darien.

"Dearheart, where did you go and what did you do.", asked Darien a bit worriedly.

He got even more worried when Serena leered at him.

"Don't worry muffin, just watch and see what happens.", said a smug moon princess.

Feeling as if he had no choice, Darien agreed.

"Attention ladies and gentlemen, one of the guests requested this song for a friend of hers and her escort. This young lady told me that the couple in question have been separated from each other for many years.", started the bandleader.

"You don't know the half of it." muttered Darien thus receiving an evil glare directed at him from Serena.

"I wish this couple the best of luck now that they have found each other again. Ladies and gentleman: 'Moments in Love'", finished the bandleader as he raised his baton.

On cue the lights dimmed and a lone spotlight illuminated Takeru and Setsuna standing on the dance floor.

For their part, Takeru and Setsuna had been caught flat-footed and were looking around sheepishly. This all changed when their epickpicked up the first notes of a song they knew very well.

"Who requested this? Did you ask for this song Setsuna?', asked a confused Takeru.

"No, but I believe I know who did.", replied the Princess of Pluto.

Looking in the direction indicated, Takeru saw Serena and Darien standing by each other. Serena was smiling like the cat that ate the canary. Setsuna smiled and turned back towards Takeru. Seeing the look on his face she laughed. Taking his arms and pulling him close, Setsuna took the lead as the music coalesced.

"Since she was so generous, lets see if we both still remember. It's been a long time since I have heard our song.", whispered Setsuna.

Takeru nodded and together, the reunited couple started to move with the beat.

At first they were a little bit off. But slowly, as the music progressed, they fell back into the familiar steps of old.

"Even though she is my enemy right now, I can see the goodness within her. Is she trying to get us back together or is she just enjoying the evening as we are?", said Takeru in a return whisper.

Together Takeru and Setsuna dazzled the crowd. Letting the music flow through them, they both felt rejuvenated. Remembering old dance steps and combining them with new ones, the couple; so long apart now returned to each other.

As the song continued (Moments in Love is a ten minute song.), other couples started to join the couple on the dance floor. First to do so were Prince Darien and Princess Serena. Andrew and Rita followed. Soon the dance floor was once again filled to capacity with dancers.

The bandleader seeing the crowd on the floor directed his group to continue playing this one song. Prince Takeru and Princess Setsuna felt as if the years had fallen away. Instead of dancing in the ballroom of this mansion, the couple imagined that they were back at the Silver Palace on the ballroom dance floor. With the eyes of their queen looking over them. And their friends on the dance floor with them.

When at last the song started to end, the couples on the dance floor came to the decision to leave the reunited lovers alone on the dance floor once again as they enjoyed a song that neither had heard for a long time. The others figured that it was their time in the spotlight.

The last couple to leave the floor was Darien and Serena, leaving Princess Setsuna and Prince Takeru to enjoy the floor alone as they did so long ago.

With the last notes floating away on the breeze, the overhead spotlight had gotten dimmer and dimmer till there was hardly any light at all. Lingering on the couple a few seconds after the music died away. Once the music ended completely, the ballroom went dark. Takeru and Setsuna stopped when the music ended. Looking into each other's eyes they saw the renewal of their passions for each other. Tempered by the fact that they may have to fight each other in the future, they decided to live in the present. Their eyes fixed on each other, oblivious to those around them. Gradually, the couple became aware of applause coming from all around them. The spotlight came on again and bathed them in a cool crisp bluish light. Then the main lights of the ballroom came back on, set for a dimmer illumination than before. Everyone in the room realized that the spotlight was for the couple on the dance floor and only for them. Their dancing brought out emotions in everyone, there weren't many dry eyes in the place. Even the party's host had unshed tears in his eyes.

Looking at each other, Takeru took Setsuna's hand firmly in his and nodded at his once and future love. Together they bowed and curtsied for the many couples applauding them. Then turning to Setsuna, Takeru bowed deeply. This was followed up by a deep curtsey in return from Setsuna. Serena, Darien, Rita, and Andrew were the first to arrive by the side of the couple. The four members of royalty all bowed and curtsey to each other with Andrew and Rita following their lead. The host arrived next and Takeru and Setsuna bowed before him and thanked him for inviting them to the event.

"No; thank you. I, and most of the people around here have never seen such exquisite dancing. I was deeply moved by it.", enthused the gentle host.

Leading the couples off the dance floor and through a large crowd, the host brought the six young people to the main table and asked them to sit. The guys waited till after the girls had taken their seats before sitting down on their own. Takeru and Setsuna were tired. Neither of them had danced that length of time in a long while. As all six youths took sips out of glasses of water, almost all of the other guests came up and acknowledged Setsuna and Takeru's mastery of the dance floor. Even the bandleader came up and offered them a short bow, followed by the rest of the band. Setsuna and Takeru wanted to leave the party or at least have some time alone with each other. The host saw this in their expressions and had his liveried personnel clear the balcony and escort the two in that direction.

With Darien and Serena following, Takeru and Setsuna leaned against the railing and watched the sky.

"Doesn't this remind you of the times that we used to share during the Silver Millennium?", asked Setsuna.

"Yes. It brings back some of the memories but others are still fuzzy.", answered Takeru.

Darien and Serena were standing a few feet behind the couple at the railing. They had been watching Taki and Setsuna interact. Now they were discussing how they could use this to their advantage.

"I don't understand. He threatened us, now he is standing with one of his most powerful enemies as if nothing has happened. What's his motivation for this? Is he trying to find out our weaknesses or what?", mentioned Darien.

"Quit complaining, can't you just let him be happy tonight? ru iru is a human being like you and me, albeit with a connection with the evil power of the dark moon. Don't you remember, these two were engaged in the past? They were separated like we were. After a thousand years they were reunited. Now they are on opposite sides. They just wanted one night, nig night where they could put that behind them and be together knowing that the next day of two they will be fighting against each other.", retorted Serena.

Darien was taken aback by the vehemence that accompanied Serena's statement. He kept his thoughts to himself and left the rest of the subject alone. Looking back at the happy couple, Darien saw that they were making their way in the direction of the rest of the party.

Walking up to Serena and Darien, Setsuna was looking at her watch. She had just remembered that Haruka, Michiru, and Hotaru were waiting at home.

"I have to make a phone call and let the others know that I am alright. I also have to tell them not to worry about me coming home tonight. That is going to anger Haruka to no end, but it is my decision.", Setsuna was saying to Takeru as they came up to the other couple.

Within minutes after letting one of the servants know, Setsuna was sitting in a chair with an elegant gold-trimmed classic telephone to her ear.

"Hello, Haruka. Are you awake?", asked Setsuna.

At home, Haruka grimaced when she heard the voice over the handset. Along with Michiru, Haruka had gotten home about an hour or so before the call. They had changed clothes in their room and were now sitting in the kitchen drinking some hot chocolate.

"Yes I'm awake as is Michiru. How about you? Is there anything wrong?", replied Haruka.

"No everything is fine. Nothing is wrong. I am just calling to say that I won't be coming back home tonight.", stated Setsuna preparing for the outbursat wat was sure to be coming.

At first Haruka was surprised, then she got angry and exploded over the phone line.

"WHAT??!! YOU AREN"T COMING HOME TONIGHT? WHAT DID HE DO TO YOU?", burst out the stunned Princess of Uranus. Holding the phone away from her ear, Setsuna tried to explain. Haruka wasn't having any of it. Setsuna looked over at Takeru and smiled wanly.

Back at the house, Michiru had finally succeeded in keeping her significant other from yanking the phone out of the wall and throwing it through a window.

"Oh Setsuna, you are going to stay over at Takeru's place tonight? I think that's so sweet. It seems to me that you both have rediscovered the spark that originally brought you two together a thousand years ago. Hotaru will be okay, she had a short weak period after we got home but she's asleep now. When she wakes up in the morning I will tell her. Haruka has calmed down a little and wants to speak with you again.", commented the Princess from Neptune.

Receiving the phone from Michiru, Haruka placed it against her ear.

"Setsuna I hope you know what you are doing. I'm not happy about this but I concede the fact that you need this. It will probably do you a little bit of good."

"Thank you Haruka, I really needed that vote of confidence. See you tomorrow.", finished Setsuna as she hung up the phone.

Now the party was winding down. Several of the guests had already gone home. As they finished with the phone, Andrew and Rita were preparing to leave.

"Well Darien, Serena it was nice to have you here tonight. Setsuna, Takeru it was nice to meet you and we enjoyed your dancing.", said Rita as Andrew nodded.

"Thank you for inviting us Andrew. If it weren't for you we wouldn't have been here. We enjoyed it very much.", returned Darien.

"Maybe we can get together like this again sometime. It was fun while it lasted.", added Serena.

"Yeah as long as I don't have to wear this penguin suit again.", Andrew joked while running his finger inside the collar of his dark grey tuxedo jacket.

Takeru and Darien nodded in commiseration.

"Oh I don't know. I think all three of you look handsome in formal wear.", interjected Setsuna.

The three guys were smart to at least look a little sheepish.

"Andrew, Rita; I yed yed meeting you this evening. It was our pleasure to entertain you and the other guests. I do hope we are able to see each other again sometime.", added Setsuna.

Darien surprised Takeru by extending his hand. Taki shook it and smiled. He also shook Andrew's hand. Waving goodbye, Andrew and Rita disappeared out the main door. The two remaining couples started walking in the general direction of the door. Just as they made it to the door, the host of the party came over and they thanked him for inviting them and he thanked them for coming and again thanked Takeru and Setsuna for their dancing. After they left the host, Takeru and Setsuna walked outside. Being joined outside by Darien and Serena, Takeru and Setsuna walked over to their driver.

"Darien, Serena, would you like to stop by for a few minutes?", asked Takeru.

"No I think we will pass on it this time.", answered Darien.

After a short conversation, the Mercedes limo that Takeru and Setsuna arrived in came gliding silently to the curb. As the driver stepped out to open their door, Serena looked inside it in amazement at the enormous gray car. Right behind it came a black BMW 740il limousine. Takeru glanced at the limo and quirked a questioning eyebrow at Darien. Darien saw it and shrugged.

"Don't look at me, it just appeared when I was getting ready for the event. The driver didn't say anything, he just handed me a message saying that he was my driver for the evening.", muttered Darien.

Takeru nodded in agreement. The same thing had happened to him. Turning his attention to Setsuna and Serena, he leaned against the open door of the Benz.

"Setsuna, can I ask you to do me a favor? While you are at Takeru's house can you see if Raye and Mina are okay.", asked the younger princess.

"Yes, I will ask him.", answered Setsuna.

A few more exchanged pleasantries and both princesses separated and got into their respective limousines.

After a couple of words between them, Darien and Takeru also climbed into their seperate limos. The Beemer and the Benzino pulled out of the circular driveway and went in opposite directions.

In the BMW, Darien and Serena were quietly thinking about the couple they had just left.

While in the Benz, Takeru and Setsuna were snuggling together. Setsuna had her head resting against Takeru's chest. Takeru had wrapped his arms around her.

"This feels so comfortable, Takeru. I could live in your arms for eternity.", sighed Setsuna.

Takeru nuzzled Setsuna's head, smelling the sweet and refreshing scent of the shampoo she used to wash her hair. Leaning back in the deep bucket seat, Taki rested with his eyes closed. Setsuna looked up with half-lidded eyes. Seeing the strong jaw, she traced it with a finger. Once her finger reached his lips she had to jerk it back as he playfully nipped at the offending object.

"You keep doing that and you will regret it later.", replied Taki with his eyes closed.

"Maybe I'm doing this for a reason! Had that thought crossed your mind.?", replied Setsuna.

Takeru chuckled, then reaching underneath her chin with one finger and lifting it up; he placed a gentle kiss on her waiting lips. Under the firm yet gentle lips, Setsuna sighed in happiness.

Reluctantly they pulled away from each other. Setsuna repositioned herself in the backseat. Kicking her high-heeled shoes off onto the floor of the backseat, Suna curled up, thus forcing Takeru over into the corner. Once all the movement stopped, Takeru was lodged in the passenger side corner with Setsuna cuddled up against him. Her legs stretched out the length of the backseat.

When the driver lowered the privacy partition just enough to see how his charges were doing,he saw that Setsuna and Takeru snoozing lightly wrapped in each other's arms. Raising the partition again, he shook his head. Thirty minutes later, the driver rapped on the partition to let the couple know that they were approaching their destination. Takeru heard the tapping and opened his eyes. Seeing that they were almost at Setsuna's house, he woke her up.

Setsuna shook her head and looked around. Seeing that they were pulling up to the house she shared. Remembering that she had asked Taki to have the driver stop here so she could pick up some things. Kissing Taki on the lips, Setsuna hopped out of the car and started towards the door. Reaching for her key, Setsuna was surprised to hear the doorknob rattle. Taking a step back in surprise, Setsuna looked into the sleepy face of Michiru Kaioh.

"Hello Setsuna, everything alright?", asked the yawning Michiru.

Setsuna looked at Michiru. She was wearing a full-length flannel nightgown. Michiru also had her feet encased in a pair of thin socks.

"I'm sorry Michiru, did I wake you?", said Setsuna.

"No Setsuna, I had woken up and came downstairs to get a glass of water. I was in the kitchen when I heard the car pull up and saw you as you approached the door. At least it was me who came and opened the door.", chuckled Michiru sleepily.

Setsuna nodded and slipped into the house. Carrying her heels in her head, She padded up the stairs feeling Michiru's knowing grin. Stepping into her room and closing the door, Suna went over to her closet. Opening the door, she looked in trying to decide what to wear for the next day.

Picking a light gray business suit, Setsuna folded it and placed it in a small overnight bag. Suna also picked out a light pink blouse to go with it. Going over to her chest of drawers, she pulled open the top drawer and looked inside. Taking a light orange negligee out of the drawer she folded it up and placed it on top of the blouse and suit. Closing the top drawer, Setsuna opened the second drawer and pulled out a pair of sheer pair of pantyhose.

"Hmm, what am I forgetting?", thought the green haired beauty.

Closing the first drawer, Setsuna opened the second top drawer and pulled o pai pair of peach silk panties and a matching silk brassiere. Thinking for a moment, she pulled out another bra and panty set; emerald green this time. Putting both sets in her overnight bag, Setsuna went over to her vanity and picked some other personel hygiene items. Placing those inside a smaller bag, she put the smaller bag into the overnight bag and zipped it up. As she prepared to walk out of her room, she stopped to grab a pair of gray low-heeled pumps.

Opening the door to the hallway and closing it behind her, Setsuna started to walk downstairs. She only stopped when a sleepy Hotaru stuck her head outside her room and looked on in confusion. Smiling in the little girls' direction, Setsuna continued on her way to the stairs. Descending the stairs, Setsuna was met by another surprise. A sleepy yet still upset Haruka. Shaking her head she continued on to the bottom step.

"Just what I really need right now. An angry and sleepy Haruka.", thought Setsuna.

"For rec record, I still don't approve of your spending the night with him. However, due to the fact that it is your decision and he is, or rather was, your fiance, I see that I cannot change your mind.", stated Haruka flatly.

"I see.", answered Setsuna in an answering flat tone of voice.

"I only have one other thing to say: have fun and enjoy yourself.", said Haruka with some emotion.

"Thank you Haruka. I really need that vote of confidence.", replied a somewhat relieved Setsuna.

After a few minutes of catching up on each other's evening, Setsuna said her goodbyes and opened the front door. Glancing back once with a smile on her face, she closed the door and waited till she heard it lock. Giving the knob a little juggle to make sure, Setsuna continued out to the limo.

Takeru had stepped out of the car when he saw the door open. Now he was leaning against the side of the car. He had untied his bowtie so that the ends were hanging past his collar. When he saw that is was Setsuna coming out the door, Takeru straightened up and held open his arms. Setsuna saw the open arms and her heart soared. Walking till she was just a few feet away, she stopped and looked.

"Go on, you know you want to run up and jump into those strong arms of his. Go ahead, you should allow yourself just this one time to loose control. Even though he is your enemy at this time, he still loves you and you still love him.", ran the thoughts in Setsuna's mind.

Deciding to just go with the moment, Setsuna dropped her overnight bag and the shoes she was carrying and ran into the waiting arms of Takeru. Once he caught her, she planted a long and passionate kiss on his waiting lips. At first Taki was surprised, but he relaxed as he took the extra weight.

Back at the house a curtain fluttered closed at a window. Behind the curtain Haruka and Michiru shared a smile.

"It's about time she did something spontaneously.", the two mused together.

Leaving the window, Haruka wrapped an arm around Michiru and together they went upstairs.

Takeru and Setsuna had finally found a way inside the limo. Collapsing onto the soft cushions of the backseat. The driver closed the door and put the car in gear. He had left the engine running as the lady had gone into the house.

"Set... Set... Setsuna, can't you let me up so I can breathe.", stammered Takeru.

"Not just yet, my love. Not just yet.", replied Setsuna smartly.

"Oh okay, then I will just have to reverse our positions.", grinned Taki.

Gently tightening arms, Takeru took a hold of Setsuna and flipped them over. Now he was on top and she was on the bottom. A smiling Takeru gazed down at the emerald haired goddess beneath him.

"Ah ha, I got you where I want you, now.", smirked Takeru.

"What if its I got you where I want you!", replied an equally smirking Setsuna.

At the mansion, which was the destination for the couple in the back of the limo, Princess Osmia watched the interplay between Setsuna and Takeru.

She wasn't smiling.

"I told that idiot that he shouldn't ask her to that damn event. He is still smitten with her. I must do something to split them back apart. I can't do it now, but I will do it soon. Hmm, let me go check on those other scouts.", thought the heir to the Negaverse and Darkmoon families.

Osmia got up from the deep leather highback chair in the study. Walking to another section of the house, Osmia checked on her two charges.

Raye and Mina heard the approach of the evil princess. Sitting down, the two acted nonchalantly. Earlier they had found a small kink in the force field that held them. They had spent the last few hours trying to enlarge the crease. Each time that Osmia had came by to check on them, they had covered up their work and acted suitably downtrodden.

"Dammit, we gotta find a way to let Serena and the others know we are all right. We also got to tell them about that weak spot in the force field.", grimaced Raye.

Mina nodded in agreement.

"Don't worry about that. One of the other scouts will be here to check up on you soon enough. By the way, I figured that you would go for that weak spot. That is why I made it noticeable. So you two have been working futilely.", boomed a voice from above.

Raye and Mina were shocked beyond words. They were sure that she hadn't noticed them working on that particular spot. What could have tipped her off? It seemed like Osmia wasn't going to answer.

Back in the Mercedes, Takeru and Setsuna were holding each other tightly. The zipper on Setsuna's jade dress had somehow (???) come halfway down. The couple was once again intertwined with Takeru leaning against the locked door. This time he had been gently running his hand over her semi-exposed legs. Setsuna felt the gentleness of his touch. Deciding to reciprocate the feeling, she ran her hands through his open shirt. Before falling into their present position, she had unbuttoned a few of the buttons on his shirt.

Things were beginning to heat up in the car when the Mercedes pulled up to the mansion. Putting the car into park and shutting off the engine, the driver stepped out from the drivers' side. Going around to the back door closest to the mansions' covered walkway, he started to open the door. When it wouldn't open on his tug of the handle, the driver stepped over to the other passenger side door, opened it, and pressed the button that unlocked the rear doors. Pulling on the door handle once again, the driver watched as the couple hurriedly gathered themselves up and got out of the car. Subtly averting his eyes from the exposed flesh, the driver nodded. As Takeru passed the driver, he extended his hand to the driver. Leaning forward he thanked the driver in a low voice.

"Tell your employer that I said that he should either give you a raise or an all expense paid vacation with your family. I plan on calling him tomorrow and telling him myself. You did a good job. See you next time.", murmured Taki.

Nodding his head, the driver watched out of the corner of his eye as the happy couple jogged hand in hand to the door. Closing the door he was holding, the driver went back around to his side of the car. Looking over the roof before he got in, he watched as the tall dark-skinned gentleman gently lifted the lovely lady and carried her in his arms through the door. Once the door closed the driver got in, started the engine and drove off into the night.

At the door of the house, Takeru and Setsuna stopped. Setsuna was in awe of the house, but it was nothing compared to the feelings she was feeling at that moment for the man standing beside her. Takeru watched as his love looked at the house. Seizing upon a sudden thought, he picked Setsuna up and settled her in the crook of his arms. Before she could voice a protest, Takeru stepped through the door and proceeded to carry her across the threshold and into the vast foyer.

"Huh what? Why did you do that.", asked a somewhat confused Setsuna.

"Practice, my love. Practice.", qud Tad Takeru mysteriously.

"Practice for what?", continued Setsuna not getting the implication of the statement.

"Practice so that in a few years when I do it for real, I don't drop you.", replied Taki quite smug with himself.

Setsuna was about to comment on that when the full implication of his words sank in.

"Do you really mean that, Taki my love?", asked Setsuna in wonderment.

His only answer was a soul-searing kiss.

Breaking from the kiss, Takeru put Setsuna down and started to show her around. Passing some of the minor rooms in the mansion, he explained that since he didn't use them that much he hadn't decorated them completely.

Going into another wing, the happy couple ran into Osmia. Setsuna's first reaction was to attack, after a second she calmed down when she saw that the evil princess had her hands at her side and was giving no indication of attacking.

"Hello Setsuna. I would say I am happy to see you but why should I lie about it. I wish you weren't here at all; unfortunately I have to deal with you while you are. If you will excuse me I have something to take care of.", said a peeved Osmia.

Setsuna didn't trust herself to answer politely. Stepping aside to let her nemesis pass, she didn't spare the other woman a glance. Takeru saw that having both women in the house was like putting a match to a dynamite fuse. Taking the situation in he wasted no time in guiding Setsuna in the opposite direction.

Moving into another hallway, Takeru stood in front of a door. Setsuna was a bit confused when the prince of her dreams opened the door. Standing in the room armed with whatever they could find were Raye and Mina. The two younger scouts looked at the elder scout and their mouths dropped.

"Hello girls, how are things going?", asked Setsuna.

"Why are you here Setsuna, did he capture you also?", asked a stunned Raye.

The green-haired princess shook her head. Setsuna felt that explaining her reasons for coming here wouldn't endear her to the captive girls at this time.

"If he didn't capture you, then why are you here?", asked Mina, confusion written all over her face.

The two captives had shrunk slowly into a pair of chairs as they had asked their questions. Now the black-haired princess from Mars had jumped up out of her seat. Forestalling the statement she saw on the girls face by raising her hand, Setsuna replied.

"I have my own reasons for being here. Maybe sometime in the future you will understand them.", she replied.

Not having anything else to say, both girls nodded.

"Setsuna, times' up. I told you I wouldn't harm them."

"I know, I just wanted to make sure."

Together, the couple walked towards the kitchen. Asking Setsuna if she wanted some tea, Takeru stopped upon their arrival to check the teapot. Seeing that it was oe coe continued into a small room off from the kitchen. This room contained two high-backed chairs sitting in front of a low coffee table. There was also a small couch on the other side.

Done in blue, black, and with a hint of grey, the room looked inviting. There was a fire in the fireplace and a small silver service off to one side. Setsuna lowered herself into one of the chairs and took off her shoes. Her bag had been dropped on the floor next to her seat. Looking up, she saw Takeru walk in and hand her a cup of tea then take a seat in the other chair.

"Do you like the house, Setsuna?", questioned Taki as he took a sip from his teacup.

"Yes I do. I'm happy that you kept your word and haven't harmed Raye and Mina.", replied Setsuna.

Takeru smiled and took another sip of tea. Placing her cup on the coffee table, Setsuna padded lightly over to the other chair. Taking Takeru's teacup