K-chan gruffly picked up the 2 year old by the back of his burgundy shirt and hoisted him up and out of the closet.
“What is it?!” She shouted.
At that moment Night came fumbling out of a near by door.
“There he is- you found him!”
K-chan shook the weeping boy in front of him, “Night is this yours? What is it?”
Koto joined in, her little hands on her hips, “and what is he doing ruining our hard work? I found the ladies’ guest room a mess with his snot all over the new bed sheets!”
Knight shrugged and tried to take the squirming child from K-chan but was only met with increased shrieking. “It’s only a child.”
“It’s going to be only a PANCAKE when I get through with it!”
At this point most of the south east corner of the house including Mikan and Ichigo had gathered to see what the huge ruckus was about.
“Night-kun you never told us you had a baby!” Tanpopo teased with a swat of her hand.
“He’s not mine-” Night shouted between tiny kicks and punches, “He is Lady Momo’s and Lord Sentence’s first child. They have come for a visit and asked that we give it to the nanny.”
K-chan rolled her eyes, “We don’t have nanny. Did you tell them we still don’t have nanny? We don’t got any children!”
“I tried to but Lady Momo-” Night was having a hard time now just keeping the child from falling out of his arms. K-chan spun on the gathered crowd and eyed them down.
“Tanpopo!”
Tanpopo’s eyes went wide. “No offence boss but I’m no good with kids! Plus I gotta watch the door! How would it look to have drool all over my dress?” She stole a glance at Takashi and blushed.
“Fine. Koto-”
“Nooooo. I’ll kill the kid before I take care of him. Plus he just gave me another day’s work to catch up on.” Koto crossed her arms and openly glared at the baby.
“Sami-”
Sami just raised her eyebrows. Immediately K-chan changed her mind.
She was getting desperate and her eyes grazed over her remaining servants who all either had work to do, an excuse as to why they couldn’t possibly do it, or K-chan simply didn’t trust them.
Suddenly, Ichigo had an idea. She nudged Mikan with her elbow to the front of the little crowd. Mikan looked back at her questioningly and then she understood.
“I can do it!” Mikan called out.
K-chan eyed her suspiciously. This maid could barely fold a napkin correctly much less babysit an important child. But Mikan stood firm with her hands clasped behind her apron. What would Queen Aino say about her daughter changing diapers?
When the baby let out a sudden piercing shriek it brought K-chan back to reality. She began giving her orders as she nodded at Night who immediately handed the shrieking burden over to Mikan.
“I don’t wanna hear peeps out of this thing while Lady Momo and Lord Sentence are here, you understand Mikan? Everyone back to work!”
“Yes milady!” Mikan slowly placed the child on the ground and crouched down next to it. Even though K-chan had given the clear order to disperse, no one moved from their spot around the maid and the child who was sniffing madly and muttering the same incomprehensible blather over and over while Mikan listened. They were curious to see what she would do. And so far it looked like she was going to do nothing.
The child soon noticed all had gone quiet and attention was on Mikan, who was staring intently at him, so he began to direct his baby-talk at her.
After a few minutes of pleading Mikan broke into a smile and spoke in a clear but high-pitched voice.
“Are you hungry?” Immediately the child hopped up and put his hands on Mikan’s dress. “I see!” She hoisted the little one onto her hip, ignoring the amazed looks on the faces all around them. She turned to Sami, “Sami would you mind making two luke-warm bowls of porridge and a little plate of brown sugar in a about 10 minutes?” Sami grimaced but nodded.
“How about you take him to the Library? You won’t be in anyone’s way in that part of the house.” Koto offered.
Mikan nodded. “Alright. Thank you Koto!” She bowed as best she could with the sniffling child wetting her once perfectly white sleeve with his tears, and walked toward the library uttering soothing things under her breath.
Ichigo was smiling and said almost to herself, “She had a little sister not too long ago.”
Once they were gone, K-chan clapped her hands in her usual fashion- “I thought you all had work to do! Let go!”
Goshujin-sama approached the heavy wooden doors to the library. There was a point he was trying to make but Sentence just would believe him without at least a little proof. So he had gone in search of a particular book that would explain it but before he could reach the door handle he perceived that it was partially open. And out of that crack came an unfamiliar young woman’s laughter.
Carefully, he approached the door and peeked through. There, on the far side of the room in the streaming afternoon light sat one of the new maids- the one with almond shaped eyes- the one who had served his breakfast all those days ago! She was sitting primly on her knees next to a toddler who was dressed in gaudy clothing (he recognized him as Momo’s first child), laying on his stomach running a pen haphazardly over a piece of loose paper. The girl to his side sat calmly commenting on how interesting or beautiful the drawing was, sometimes pointing at objects and asking the child what they were.
Her voice was sweet but not condescending. It spoke in low tones that filled the musty room with moé that Goshujin-sama had never felt before. The gentle smile on her pale lips was mature and relaxed. After a few minutes, she lifted up the small one onto the couch behind them and placed a book in their lap. She began to read slowly and distinctly, pointing out each picture, and emphasizing every important word. Sometimes the child would react to what has happening in the story and look up at the maid who would mimic the face with love. Never once did the maid think to look up to see if anyone were listening or watching. As far as she was concerned, the whole world was in this small room that was full from top to bottom with his stuffy books.
She was so gentle with the child that Goshujin-sama was instantly mesmerized. How long he had stood there, he had no idea. But it wasn’t until the third time he was called did he wake from his trance
“Goshujin-sama? Are you alright?”
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Friday, November 6, 2009
Maid!Hime
Another dump of usless information...
MaidHime!
The most moé maid manga out there surrounds the story of a little Princess Mikan and her adventures posing as a maid becoming Maid Mikan Hime!
Mikan who is heir to the throne, wants to prepare to be a good Queen to her people and to know how the lower class of people live so she can better serve them. What better way to do that than to become a servant herself? So, with the permission of her parents Queen Aino (who worries about her beloved daughter and offers lots of advice and sometimes too much help!) and King Lulu (who also loves his daughter but is much more excited to hear about what she learns than her safety), Mikan-Hime becomes Maid Mikan in a distant home of a nobleman.
The trouble is- Mikan loves serving! But is it because she enjoys leaving behind her Princess life, or is it because she is beginning to realize she has fallen in love with her Goshujin-sama?!
Goshujin-sama is a kind and gentle master who has always felt a little guilty about having servants. He owns a lot of land and is very wealthy, but most of it he inherited from him family. He is well known in the community and knows he has to find a good wife soon to help him run the house while he continues his business. Often, he would not come home for weeks at a time travelling the county being generous to the poor and learning as much as he can through his travels. But upon returning home he finds a new maid bringing in his breakfast! Immediately he falls in love with Mikan’s tempered smile and graceful movements- not like the usual maid at all! But the (supposed) difference in their rank keeps them apart. Still, he can’t seem to get her out of his head! Should he leave? Should he get married to someone else faster? Or is it O.K. just to enjoy her company while he can? Thus our story goes…
Along with Mikan comes the faithful but reserved servant Ichigo- her first handmaid back home. Ichigo is devoted to Mikan and has trouble adjusting to working side-by-side with her lady while still protecting her. Queen Aino warned her to keep a close eye on her at all times and Ichigo takes her job with pride. (“Ichigo! I can do this myself!” “But Your Majesty’s hands! Please let me.” “I’ve told you Ichi-chan, please call me Mikan. If you call me ‘Majesty’ it will blow our cover. Now show me how to wash this again…”)
Mikan is always able to fin friends. But when she first starts work for Gosuhijin-sama, he has a hard time figuring out even the simplest of tasks! Luckily she has Koto her roommate to help her. Koto lives down the hall of servant’s quarters and was instructed to look after Mikan to make sure all her job gets done on time- even if she has to finish the work herself. Normally a chamber maid, she has also been known to take on the duties of a Scullery maid as well. Koto, with her small delicate hands makes quick work where ever she goes. Even with a small bit of attitude, she doesn’t mind helping Mikan. Koto has no idea why Mikan is a maid when she was clearly built to be something much more delicate- but never asks. Instead she gladly takes on Mikan (and Ichigo from time to time) as her ward to help her understand the mysteries of the house. (“Don’t go in there after 11. That’s where K-chan takes her evening glass of wine.”)
Sami has been working in the kitchens for Goshujin-sama for many years; she’s a know-it-all woman who is brave and brassy. She really OWNS that kitchen! Through a series of little mistakes and clues, Sami is bright enough to discover Mikan’s secret! But which one is it?! She becomes one of Mikan’s confidants to help her keep the secret safe from the other house members. She is always encouraging Mikan to be bold and go for what she wants! Eventually, she also becomes good friends with Ichigo because of Ichi’s frequent trips to the kitchen to see a special person…Leon the baker.
Squall, Leon, and David have a little catering business that attends to the Goshujin-sama’s parties and the house’s everyday needs.
Leon is the quiet baker with a gentle smile who comes up with some of the most robust breads and most delicate pastries. Upon seeing her for the first time, he develops a crush on Ichigo. Afterwards, he comes by the kitchen on a regular basis on the chance that he might see her again. Soon he starts to leave behind special treats for her (ahem- and the rest of the staff of course) which Ichigo is flattered and a little confused by. Soon she finds she has developed a crush on him too and offers to pick up orders from his shop as often as she can.
Squall handles the meaty part of the business. He knew Goshujin-sama as a boy and has agreed on the exclusivity of the business. He has a bright smile and wide selection of talents. Even though he’s a successful businessman, he is an uncommonly happy person and still a friend of Goshujin-sama’s so every once in a while he attends the big social events dressed to impress!
David is the Bartender of the group. With his cat-like skills behind the bar, he captures the hearts of all the maids in the house. They all love it when he comes by! Once, he tired to hit on Sami, but she told him straight out that she already has a wonderful boyfriend (who we never see) and since then, they have been friends- sometimes drinking during off hours. XD
As head mistress of this house is K-chan and by her side is Night. They run Goshujin-sama’s house from top to bottom! In fact, K-chan is the one who hired Mikan only at the request of the Queen Aino. She is not happy to have such an inexperienced maid on her staff but tolerates her on behalf of the Queen. While with the maids and, K-chan can be tough and demanding hosts (especially at meetings) but it’s worth it. She expects the house to be in tip-top shape at all times – even Goshujin-sama doesn’t care as much as she does! When he is home- K-chan speaks to him in sweetly as a Maid should. She smiles and always begs his forgiveness. (“Goshujin-sama! You’re home early!” “Yes, but the house looks just as beautiful as when I left it. Thank you K-chan.” “Please take a nap while we prepare a snack for you…did you see the way he frowned just a little? Those staircases are filthy! Back to work!”) In her off-time (which is rare), K-chan is smart and savvy and really a very nice woman who likes to eat pho with her friends.
One of those friends is Knight. Knight is a kind but a strong leader. While he takes direction from K–chan, he is definitely a leader in his own right. He especially likes working with a small group of maid and hosts. Most of the time, he is the one who does the interviewing and hiring in the house. He often can be seen doing some of the more menial jobs himself because he’d rather just get it done than ask someone else. As we see later, he tries to build a relationship with his latest hire Vensy- but why does she keep sneaking out late at night?
Because Goshujin-sama is so popular and kind, he has many friends he likes to invite over. Representing the community’s opinion and good friends of his are Sentence and Momo. Even though they had an arranged marriage, they knew they would have ended up together anyway. They were childhood friends and love to attend parties together. Momo loves gossip and to give advice while Sentence loves to hear everything she has assembled. It’s Sentence who first notices Goshujin-sama might like Mikan. He advises against it and tries to help his friend see what a bad match it would be. While Sentence believes it to be only a passing fancy, he also does the kind thing and keeps the crush a secret from his wife who brings the most interesting pieces of the puzzle together for him. Soon he starts to realize perhaps his friend might really have serious designs on the girl! Time to get serious to save the neighbourhood! Momo doesn’t mind playing match maker. Also, she thinks Mikan looks *so familiar*…
Kyosuke is another neighbour but isn’t very close to Goshujin-sama. He is not nearly as wealthy and doesn’t care about social opinion- which is obvious. Although he is often a foolish man, he does business from time to time with Goshujin-sama forcing him to visit the house. He also thinks Mikan is beautiful and starts to prepare to ask her to marry him. Of course Mikan has no intention of doing anything of the kind, but he always seems to be right behind her. And slowly Goshujin-sama starts to realize that Mikan may not be with him for long! That rascal Kyosuke seems to think Mikan is already his! K-chan often has to shoo him out of the house to stop bothering her maids while at work.
One of the wealthiest women in the country is Maiyu who is normally too famous to know who Mikan or Goshujin-sama are. But ever since she heard a rumour about his wealth, Maiyu has been trying to seduce Goshujin-sama to make him her husband. She doesn’t really love him, but then again, she never factored in love to her plans. What she is doing is not evil- but simply accepted by her peers. She seems like a very possible choice and Goshujin-sama was seriously considering the alliance before Mikan showed up. Maiyu doesn’t know what has changed Goshujin-sama’s mind, but she is NOT HAPPY about it and is doubly determined to win him over.
Mikan is not the only princess in her family. Her beautiful little sister Mio-Hime has always been pretty bitter about the love, attention, and power that Mikan was naturally born with. With Mikan out of the castle, Mio thought she’d finally get some attention. But even in her absence, Mikan leaves a mark- everyone is still talking about her! Mio thinks it’s about time to remove her sister from the throne- when she has the least power to change her fate. But Mio isn’t alone in her desires. The devious Duke Kaname has also been waiting for his shot at power as well!
Kaname has been watching Mio carefully over the years as she continued to seethe under her older sister’s shadow. Being a Duke, Kaname is always invited to royal activities but despite that, has been forced to maintain a low rank unable to rise up. Once Mio’s first few attempts fail, Kaname offers his assistance to her and blackmails Princess Mio in return for the promise of power once she takes the throne as Queen. At first they seem to hate one another and bicker quite a bit. But after time they see how they much think alike- they make a great wicked pair! But is it enough to remove Mikan from her throne while she’s not able to take her place as princess? What kind of daughters did Aino and Lulu raise?!
Of course, Kaname needs a source of information. Vensy, has been faithful to Kaname for a long time as his special cat-maid. She acts as a spy for their evil plots, getting herself a position in goshujin-sama’s home. She uses her influence with Night (who has always had a thing for her) to get herself placed near Mikan to hear everything that’s going on. Although she doesn’t need to say much, she hears news and reports it to Kaname. Meanwhile Knight does what he can to help Vensy unwittingly hurting Mikan. But Vensy doesn’t mean to be bad- she’s just following orders. And it doesn’t take long for Knight’s charm to work on her…so what side is she on?!
Of course Queen Aino and King Lulu were not expecting all this drama! While all this is going on, Mikan has forgotten that her parents had been working out a negotiation with a neighbouring country which included her marriage to the handsome Prince Shiro. Queen Aino sends a message to Mikan that they have happily finally agreed upon the marriage- but there is one problem, Shiro-ojo wants to collect his bride! Mikan is no where in sight and Shiro begins to suspect he is being duped. He is going to find Mikan and bring her back home if she doesn’t return to the castle and part her from Goshujin-sama. Shiro is a silent and serious prince that many girls would kill to be married to, but for many years now, he has only had eyes for Mikan. To have her taken away by someone else is simply unacceptable. What will happen when he finds her working as a servant? And what will he do when he finds out about her love? It’s hard to tell behind those mysterious eyes…
Aino worries enough on her own, she really doesn’t need the help of neighbouring Queen Yae. A bit of a busybody, Yae takes on the role representing the interests of Aino’s country (or of her own needs which often sounds suspiciously the same…). Her favourite pass-time is to sit with Aino and King Lulu to subtly lend advice or opinion about the position of their daughter Mikan. (“If it were MY daughter, I would be a little more concerned about the state of her ability to rule rather than the state of her heart.”) Ironically, she becomes good friends with Little Princess Mio who often has the same political opinion. Eventually, Yae convinces Aino to take a much stronger hand in Mikan’s tale. Meddlesome neighbour!
There is only one person integral enough to contact Mikan- her own country sends the speedy Yuri to deliver special messages. When Yuri shows up in her heavy riding cape on a tall black horse, Mikan knows there is news from afar. Is it good or bad? Yuri is proud to keep this deep dark secret. Day by day though, it begins to depress her to have to deliver increasingly dreadful news to the princess- never knowing what burden she might unload. Will she be forever doomed to only pass along messages rather than help her dear princess plight? Perhaps one peek could change everything…
One of the major benefactors to Goshujin-sama’s wealth is Aunt Emi. Emi is only 7 years older than her nephew but still pays a part in his financial situation as she is his oldest living relative and the money has passed from her father (goshujin-sama’s grandpa) and then to her inheritance before him. She feels a certain obligation to make sure he is living a high life worthy of the family name. When he was first searching for a house in the country, she travelled across the country to see him and it was she who did most of the decorating and buying to help him set up. In general, Aunt Emi is a bit of a deviant when it comes to styles and fashions but also firmly believes in having respect and has the strangest ideas on how to preserve it . Goshujin-sama feels a need to please her and has no idea how she might feel about building a relationship with Mikan. Mikan’s also worried about her opinion of the match- tries to get close to her when she comes to town on unexpected visits. But Aunt Emi is hard to read! She just keeps laughing at the most important times.
Chiyo is goshujin-sama’s only sibling- his little beloved sister who travels across the globe to pursue her passion for art. She is loved everywhere she goes- lovely and talented, Chiyo- like her brother, has a soft spot for the underprivileged. When she comes home for a visit she immediately feels a connection with sweet Mikan and notices as plain as day her brother’s preference for her. She can also see Mikan is different from other servants. Chiyo’s main concern is her brother’s future so it takes her a while to make up her mind as to how to advise him. Of course, we all know she’ll help him make the right choice.
For example, Chiyo helped Goshujin-sama hire an old servant of hers- the luxurious Parlor Maid Tanpopo. Tanpopo cares for guests entering and exiting his home. With her pretty face, high voice, and entertaining skills- she is just the thing guests need to see when coming to relax. But when Gosuhjin-sama is away on long trips, the only people who approach the house are delivery men who have to be directed to the back and Tanpopo gets very bored. But even since Mikan came, goshujin-sama has spent a lot of time at home keeping Tanpopo busy! She loves talking to everyone and because of her overt beauty, she feels a strong connection with Mikan, believing herself to be a princess switched at birth. Tanpopo senses romance in the air like a bloodhound and is very knowledgeable about how to catch men. Mikan pretends not to be interested but really she listens carefully to all of her ideas. While Tanpopo has a lot of admirers, she has always had a crush on the sweet tempered and oblivious Takashi who never seems to take a hint.
Goshujin-sama’s new personal man servant is Takashi. He has not been working in the house for long as he is taking over his father’s role who has recently became ill. Upon overhearing his story when moving into the house and telling K-chan he is the new replacement, Mikan goes right to care for Old-man Takashi before Goshujin-sama can. Often, when Goshujin-sama cannot get Mikan off of his mind, he will gently grill his footman Takashi for information about her and how the house is being run. Takashi is a kind and busy young boy who is generally oblivious to feelings of romance. He’s not sure why it was important to Goshujin-sama to deliver this wrapped handkerchief for Mikan. Perhaps she needs it to wash extra-soft windows…
Every once in a while, Mikan is asked to go into town and buy things for either K-chan, Sami, or Night. It was on one such trip to pick up the new tablecloths for a fancy dinner party Mikan me the happy-go-lucky seamstress and dressmaker Mokona. Mokona is a foreigner to this land but just loves everything everyone has to offer. As part of coming to the country she learned all about the royal family- so when she see Mikan walking towards her shop, Mokona almost shouts out Mikan’s secret right there in the street! But Mikan has to quickly hush her with the promise to return the favour. But Mokona doesn’t mind it at all as long and Mikan returns to her shop once in a while to share stories about palace life and in return while Mokona designs some beautiful gowns for Mikan to impress Goshujin-sama. But Mokona is very poor trying to keep her business afloat but too proud to let Mikan help. Mikan tries to help her without revealing her identity but it’s difficult to do without first needing to confront her Goshujin-sama. Together they help Mokona’s business thrive.
At King Lulu’s right hand is his trusted Herald Stae. Stae knows everyone’s names, what they do, their family history, and is an expert in coat of arms. Not that she brags about it. King Lulu is hardly ever seen with out his little companion helping him throughout the day. When not acting as the official cconveyer of messages or proclamations to the public- Stae is with Lulu studying what he studies and attending to his knowledgeable needs. King Lulu trusts Stae to know just how to handle difficult situations with the people. Since Mikan left his side, King Lulu has called on stae more and more often not only because of her knowledge of the people, but also to public send warnings to Mikan for which she is very grateful. Once after a public announcement that a great trial had been adverted, Mikan forgot herself and hugged the Herald in public! What a strange way for a maid to act...
Now where would the royal family be without the protection of Rose – head of the guard to the throne? Rose has a tough side but she’s sweet all the way through! She would never abandon her post beside her lady Mikan, but now that she is undercover rose has set up a much wider but completely secret perimeter around goshujin-sama’s house. At first, Rose can’t help but try to stay near Mikan because of worry. But as other people in the village began to be suspicious, Rose is forced to take a small house nearby Goshujin-sama’s. It’s alright though. Rose is finally getting the chance to live semi-normally and because she is a new neighbour, she is invited into the local parties where she can regularly check up on Mikan’s well-being.
In the middle of everything is the silent Kai. Completely mute but for a few well-chosen words, Kai the host is always present and gathering up information. As we hear more and more from Kai we realise how much wisdom has been gathered up after all these years. Why didn’t you say something earlier?!
MaidHime!
The most moé maid manga out there surrounds the story of a little Princess Mikan and her adventures posing as a maid becoming Maid Mikan Hime!
Mikan who is heir to the throne, wants to prepare to be a good Queen to her people and to know how the lower class of people live so she can better serve them. What better way to do that than to become a servant herself? So, with the permission of her parents Queen Aino (who worries about her beloved daughter and offers lots of advice and sometimes too much help!) and King Lulu (who also loves his daughter but is much more excited to hear about what she learns than her safety), Mikan-Hime becomes Maid Mikan in a distant home of a nobleman.
The trouble is- Mikan loves serving! But is it because she enjoys leaving behind her Princess life, or is it because she is beginning to realize she has fallen in love with her Goshujin-sama?!
Goshujin-sama is a kind and gentle master who has always felt a little guilty about having servants. He owns a lot of land and is very wealthy, but most of it he inherited from him family. He is well known in the community and knows he has to find a good wife soon to help him run the house while he continues his business. Often, he would not come home for weeks at a time travelling the county being generous to the poor and learning as much as he can through his travels. But upon returning home he finds a new maid bringing in his breakfast! Immediately he falls in love with Mikan’s tempered smile and graceful movements- not like the usual maid at all! But the (supposed) difference in their rank keeps them apart. Still, he can’t seem to get her out of his head! Should he leave? Should he get married to someone else faster? Or is it O.K. just to enjoy her company while he can? Thus our story goes…
Along with Mikan comes the faithful but reserved servant Ichigo- her first handmaid back home. Ichigo is devoted to Mikan and has trouble adjusting to working side-by-side with her lady while still protecting her. Queen Aino warned her to keep a close eye on her at all times and Ichigo takes her job with pride. (“Ichigo! I can do this myself!” “But Your Majesty’s hands! Please let me.” “I’ve told you Ichi-chan, please call me Mikan. If you call me ‘Majesty’ it will blow our cover. Now show me how to wash this again…”)
Mikan is always able to fin friends. But when she first starts work for Gosuhijin-sama, he has a hard time figuring out even the simplest of tasks! Luckily she has Koto her roommate to help her. Koto lives down the hall of servant’s quarters and was instructed to look after Mikan to make sure all her job gets done on time- even if she has to finish the work herself. Normally a chamber maid, she has also been known to take on the duties of a Scullery maid as well. Koto, with her small delicate hands makes quick work where ever she goes. Even with a small bit of attitude, she doesn’t mind helping Mikan. Koto has no idea why Mikan is a maid when she was clearly built to be something much more delicate- but never asks. Instead she gladly takes on Mikan (and Ichigo from time to time) as her ward to help her understand the mysteries of the house. (“Don’t go in there after 11. That’s where K-chan takes her evening glass of wine.”)
Sami has been working in the kitchens for Goshujin-sama for many years; she’s a know-it-all woman who is brave and brassy. She really OWNS that kitchen! Through a series of little mistakes and clues, Sami is bright enough to discover Mikan’s secret! But which one is it?! She becomes one of Mikan’s confidants to help her keep the secret safe from the other house members. She is always encouraging Mikan to be bold and go for what she wants! Eventually, she also becomes good friends with Ichigo because of Ichi’s frequent trips to the kitchen to see a special person…Leon the baker.
Squall, Leon, and David have a little catering business that attends to the Goshujin-sama’s parties and the house’s everyday needs.
Leon is the quiet baker with a gentle smile who comes up with some of the most robust breads and most delicate pastries. Upon seeing her for the first time, he develops a crush on Ichigo. Afterwards, he comes by the kitchen on a regular basis on the chance that he might see her again. Soon he starts to leave behind special treats for her (ahem- and the rest of the staff of course) which Ichigo is flattered and a little confused by. Soon she finds she has developed a crush on him too and offers to pick up orders from his shop as often as she can.
Squall handles the meaty part of the business. He knew Goshujin-sama as a boy and has agreed on the exclusivity of the business. He has a bright smile and wide selection of talents. Even though he’s a successful businessman, he is an uncommonly happy person and still a friend of Goshujin-sama’s so every once in a while he attends the big social events dressed to impress!
David is the Bartender of the group. With his cat-like skills behind the bar, he captures the hearts of all the maids in the house. They all love it when he comes by! Once, he tired to hit on Sami, but she told him straight out that she already has a wonderful boyfriend (who we never see) and since then, they have been friends- sometimes drinking during off hours. XD
As head mistress of this house is K-chan and by her side is Night. They run Goshujin-sama’s house from top to bottom! In fact, K-chan is the one who hired Mikan only at the request of the Queen Aino. She is not happy to have such an inexperienced maid on her staff but tolerates her on behalf of the Queen. While with the maids and, K-chan can be tough and demanding hosts (especially at meetings) but it’s worth it. She expects the house to be in tip-top shape at all times – even Goshujin-sama doesn’t care as much as she does! When he is home- K-chan speaks to him in sweetly as a Maid should. She smiles and always begs his forgiveness. (“Goshujin-sama! You’re home early!” “Yes, but the house looks just as beautiful as when I left it. Thank you K-chan.” “Please take a nap while we prepare a snack for you…did you see the way he frowned just a little? Those staircases are filthy! Back to work!”) In her off-time (which is rare), K-chan is smart and savvy and really a very nice woman who likes to eat pho with her friends.
One of those friends is Knight. Knight is a kind but a strong leader. While he takes direction from K–chan, he is definitely a leader in his own right. He especially likes working with a small group of maid and hosts. Most of the time, he is the one who does the interviewing and hiring in the house. He often can be seen doing some of the more menial jobs himself because he’d rather just get it done than ask someone else. As we see later, he tries to build a relationship with his latest hire Vensy- but why does she keep sneaking out late at night?
Because Goshujin-sama is so popular and kind, he has many friends he likes to invite over. Representing the community’s opinion and good friends of his are Sentence and Momo. Even though they had an arranged marriage, they knew they would have ended up together anyway. They were childhood friends and love to attend parties together. Momo loves gossip and to give advice while Sentence loves to hear everything she has assembled. It’s Sentence who first notices Goshujin-sama might like Mikan. He advises against it and tries to help his friend see what a bad match it would be. While Sentence believes it to be only a passing fancy, he also does the kind thing and keeps the crush a secret from his wife who brings the most interesting pieces of the puzzle together for him. Soon he starts to realize perhaps his friend might really have serious designs on the girl! Time to get serious to save the neighbourhood! Momo doesn’t mind playing match maker. Also, she thinks Mikan looks *so familiar*…
Kyosuke is another neighbour but isn’t very close to Goshujin-sama. He is not nearly as wealthy and doesn’t care about social opinion- which is obvious. Although he is often a foolish man, he does business from time to time with Goshujin-sama forcing him to visit the house. He also thinks Mikan is beautiful and starts to prepare to ask her to marry him. Of course Mikan has no intention of doing anything of the kind, but he always seems to be right behind her. And slowly Goshujin-sama starts to realize that Mikan may not be with him for long! That rascal Kyosuke seems to think Mikan is already his! K-chan often has to shoo him out of the house to stop bothering her maids while at work.
One of the wealthiest women in the country is Maiyu who is normally too famous to know who Mikan or Goshujin-sama are. But ever since she heard a rumour about his wealth, Maiyu has been trying to seduce Goshujin-sama to make him her husband. She doesn’t really love him, but then again, she never factored in love to her plans. What she is doing is not evil- but simply accepted by her peers. She seems like a very possible choice and Goshujin-sama was seriously considering the alliance before Mikan showed up. Maiyu doesn’t know what has changed Goshujin-sama’s mind, but she is NOT HAPPY about it and is doubly determined to win him over.
Mikan is not the only princess in her family. Her beautiful little sister Mio-Hime has always been pretty bitter about the love, attention, and power that Mikan was naturally born with. With Mikan out of the castle, Mio thought she’d finally get some attention. But even in her absence, Mikan leaves a mark- everyone is still talking about her! Mio thinks it’s about time to remove her sister from the throne- when she has the least power to change her fate. But Mio isn’t alone in her desires. The devious Duke Kaname has also been waiting for his shot at power as well!
Kaname has been watching Mio carefully over the years as she continued to seethe under her older sister’s shadow. Being a Duke, Kaname is always invited to royal activities but despite that, has been forced to maintain a low rank unable to rise up. Once Mio’s first few attempts fail, Kaname offers his assistance to her and blackmails Princess Mio in return for the promise of power once she takes the throne as Queen. At first they seem to hate one another and bicker quite a bit. But after time they see how they much think alike- they make a great wicked pair! But is it enough to remove Mikan from her throne while she’s not able to take her place as princess? What kind of daughters did Aino and Lulu raise?!
Of course, Kaname needs a source of information. Vensy, has been faithful to Kaname for a long time as his special cat-maid. She acts as a spy for their evil plots, getting herself a position in goshujin-sama’s home. She uses her influence with Night (who has always had a thing for her) to get herself placed near Mikan to hear everything that’s going on. Although she doesn’t need to say much, she hears news and reports it to Kaname. Meanwhile Knight does what he can to help Vensy unwittingly hurting Mikan. But Vensy doesn’t mean to be bad- she’s just following orders. And it doesn’t take long for Knight’s charm to work on her…so what side is she on?!
Of course Queen Aino and King Lulu were not expecting all this drama! While all this is going on, Mikan has forgotten that her parents had been working out a negotiation with a neighbouring country which included her marriage to the handsome Prince Shiro. Queen Aino sends a message to Mikan that they have happily finally agreed upon the marriage- but there is one problem, Shiro-ojo wants to collect his bride! Mikan is no where in sight and Shiro begins to suspect he is being duped. He is going to find Mikan and bring her back home if she doesn’t return to the castle and part her from Goshujin-sama. Shiro is a silent and serious prince that many girls would kill to be married to, but for many years now, he has only had eyes for Mikan. To have her taken away by someone else is simply unacceptable. What will happen when he finds her working as a servant? And what will he do when he finds out about her love? It’s hard to tell behind those mysterious eyes…
Aino worries enough on her own, she really doesn’t need the help of neighbouring Queen Yae. A bit of a busybody, Yae takes on the role representing the interests of Aino’s country (or of her own needs which often sounds suspiciously the same…). Her favourite pass-time is to sit with Aino and King Lulu to subtly lend advice or opinion about the position of their daughter Mikan. (“If it were MY daughter, I would be a little more concerned about the state of her ability to rule rather than the state of her heart.”) Ironically, she becomes good friends with Little Princess Mio who often has the same political opinion. Eventually, Yae convinces Aino to take a much stronger hand in Mikan’s tale. Meddlesome neighbour!
There is only one person integral enough to contact Mikan- her own country sends the speedy Yuri to deliver special messages. When Yuri shows up in her heavy riding cape on a tall black horse, Mikan knows there is news from afar. Is it good or bad? Yuri is proud to keep this deep dark secret. Day by day though, it begins to depress her to have to deliver increasingly dreadful news to the princess- never knowing what burden she might unload. Will she be forever doomed to only pass along messages rather than help her dear princess plight? Perhaps one peek could change everything…
One of the major benefactors to Goshujin-sama’s wealth is Aunt Emi. Emi is only 7 years older than her nephew but still pays a part in his financial situation as she is his oldest living relative and the money has passed from her father (goshujin-sama’s grandpa) and then to her inheritance before him. She feels a certain obligation to make sure he is living a high life worthy of the family name. When he was first searching for a house in the country, she travelled across the country to see him and it was she who did most of the decorating and buying to help him set up. In general, Aunt Emi is a bit of a deviant when it comes to styles and fashions but also firmly believes in having respect and has the strangest ideas on how to preserve it . Goshujin-sama feels a need to please her and has no idea how she might feel about building a relationship with Mikan. Mikan’s also worried about her opinion of the match- tries to get close to her when she comes to town on unexpected visits. But Aunt Emi is hard to read! She just keeps laughing at the most important times.
Chiyo is goshujin-sama’s only sibling- his little beloved sister who travels across the globe to pursue her passion for art. She is loved everywhere she goes- lovely and talented, Chiyo- like her brother, has a soft spot for the underprivileged. When she comes home for a visit she immediately feels a connection with sweet Mikan and notices as plain as day her brother’s preference for her. She can also see Mikan is different from other servants. Chiyo’s main concern is her brother’s future so it takes her a while to make up her mind as to how to advise him. Of course, we all know she’ll help him make the right choice.
For example, Chiyo helped Goshujin-sama hire an old servant of hers- the luxurious Parlor Maid Tanpopo. Tanpopo cares for guests entering and exiting his home. With her pretty face, high voice, and entertaining skills- she is just the thing guests need to see when coming to relax. But when Gosuhjin-sama is away on long trips, the only people who approach the house are delivery men who have to be directed to the back and Tanpopo gets very bored. But even since Mikan came, goshujin-sama has spent a lot of time at home keeping Tanpopo busy! She loves talking to everyone and because of her overt beauty, she feels a strong connection with Mikan, believing herself to be a princess switched at birth. Tanpopo senses romance in the air like a bloodhound and is very knowledgeable about how to catch men. Mikan pretends not to be interested but really she listens carefully to all of her ideas. While Tanpopo has a lot of admirers, she has always had a crush on the sweet tempered and oblivious Takashi who never seems to take a hint.
Goshujin-sama’s new personal man servant is Takashi. He has not been working in the house for long as he is taking over his father’s role who has recently became ill. Upon overhearing his story when moving into the house and telling K-chan he is the new replacement, Mikan goes right to care for Old-man Takashi before Goshujin-sama can. Often, when Goshujin-sama cannot get Mikan off of his mind, he will gently grill his footman Takashi for information about her and how the house is being run. Takashi is a kind and busy young boy who is generally oblivious to feelings of romance. He’s not sure why it was important to Goshujin-sama to deliver this wrapped handkerchief for Mikan. Perhaps she needs it to wash extra-soft windows…
Every once in a while, Mikan is asked to go into town and buy things for either K-chan, Sami, or Night. It was on one such trip to pick up the new tablecloths for a fancy dinner party Mikan me the happy-go-lucky seamstress and dressmaker Mokona. Mokona is a foreigner to this land but just loves everything everyone has to offer. As part of coming to the country she learned all about the royal family- so when she see Mikan walking towards her shop, Mokona almost shouts out Mikan’s secret right there in the street! But Mikan has to quickly hush her with the promise to return the favour. But Mokona doesn’t mind it at all as long and Mikan returns to her shop once in a while to share stories about palace life and in return while Mokona designs some beautiful gowns for Mikan to impress Goshujin-sama. But Mokona is very poor trying to keep her business afloat but too proud to let Mikan help. Mikan tries to help her without revealing her identity but it’s difficult to do without first needing to confront her Goshujin-sama. Together they help Mokona’s business thrive.
At King Lulu’s right hand is his trusted Herald Stae. Stae knows everyone’s names, what they do, their family history, and is an expert in coat of arms. Not that she brags about it. King Lulu is hardly ever seen with out his little companion helping him throughout the day. When not acting as the official cconveyer of messages or proclamations to the public- Stae is with Lulu studying what he studies and attending to his knowledgeable needs. King Lulu trusts Stae to know just how to handle difficult situations with the people. Since Mikan left his side, King Lulu has called on stae more and more often not only because of her knowledge of the people, but also to public send warnings to Mikan for which she is very grateful. Once after a public announcement that a great trial had been adverted, Mikan forgot herself and hugged the Herald in public! What a strange way for a maid to act...
Now where would the royal family be without the protection of Rose – head of the guard to the throne? Rose has a tough side but she’s sweet all the way through! She would never abandon her post beside her lady Mikan, but now that she is undercover rose has set up a much wider but completely secret perimeter around goshujin-sama’s house. At first, Rose can’t help but try to stay near Mikan because of worry. But as other people in the village began to be suspicious, Rose is forced to take a small house nearby Goshujin-sama’s. It’s alright though. Rose is finally getting the chance to live semi-normally and because she is a new neighbour, she is invited into the local parties where she can regularly check up on Mikan’s well-being.
In the middle of everything is the silent Kai. Completely mute but for a few well-chosen words, Kai the host is always present and gathering up information. As we hear more and more from Kai we realise how much wisdom has been gathered up after all these years. Why didn’t you say something earlier?!
Friday, September 18, 2009
A problem I am.
I am a serious problem.
I've had this same problem for a long time. My whole life in fact because it lives with me under my skin.
What is exactly wrong with me, I don't know. I do know, however, that the problem is *me*. Not anyone else, just me. It's one of the many reasons I don't go telling people about my problems (excepting that one special person who happens to be closest to me at the moment and my father). Because in the end I'm the only one who can solve it. Only I can stop me from myself.
God only knows what I need to fix this. I wish medication was it. Everyone lives with unrest and frustration, what would we be without at least one real problem going on at all times? I can't seem to figure out why I would be unhappy! I have a job! I have a home! I have hobbies at my access and friends who call me out of my solitude! I have people I see on a regular basis who know my name! I have music and a car! I live in a big beautiful city with so much to do and the OCEAN on my doorstep!
But then, while I have a job, I don't like doing it- it's not challenging, it's not interesting or progressive. In fact everyday feels like one big loop of nothing. It eats at me- gnaws at my stomach, that everyday when Chris asks how my day was I have nothing to say. No story. Nothing changes. Am I craving punishment?! Do I want hardship and pressure?
YEAH. I guess so! I have time to read and draw and design and create but I don't! I won't! Because this problem is me. Perhaps it's an exacerbated laziness. Perhaps it's early detection of bipolar disease (entirely possible). You know I don’t want to hurt anyone with my insanity.
My poor little brother has no car and had to find a new job. No girlfriend. And he's getting into those *later* classes that start to rip your heart out with the work you put into it. A degree in Phyc much less putting Arabic on top of it all. He is the one who needs love and support. Not me. Not this silly ranting girl full of nothing to share. No place to rest her heart. As I said, God only knows what I need- but could it be I have a heart brimming with love and no place to dump it? I can feel it pouring over my hands as I look for an appropriate container with whom or where I can share it. Not just someONE I can give my heart to (all the way) but a good project or a good job. I want someone or something that needs me.
You would think this time of peace would be one to revel in. I have all this stuff in me and no relief. And even there- the only one stopping me from putting it anywhere is my common sense. What I wouldn't give for a wild or insane moment where I get to jump off a cliff into the "End of the World" (Ender's Game reference, don't worry I'm not suicidal). I want to fly to some remote place and get lost. I want to suffocate just a little bit and come out fine. Did you know today I was almost late to work because I sat at the edge of my bed and day dreamed too long? Seriously? I zoned out. And then I thought the next stupidest thing- 'I should really schedule a time to daydream so it doesn't get in the way of life'.
Even I know how sick that is.
Ah yes. Reason #2 of many that I don't share these thoughts- I don't want to torture anyone who really cares about me with the knowledge that they really *can't* help me. So don't you worry about me. It's all in my head. It's all my own fault. If only I'd stop thinking about it!
Maybe I just need time. Perhaps some huge event will happen or perhaps not! Maybe I'm supposed to be learning something. Do you think perhaps this is just another shining chance for me to prove how I fail at my own life? When the game is down and I'm on my own, I fail.
And reading over this again re-emphasizes to me how crazy I am. How I'm digging my own pit.
I need a change. A really big change.
I know I'm crazy.
I guess all I can do is wait it out. And stare longingly at that cliff…
I've had this same problem for a long time. My whole life in fact because it lives with me under my skin.
What is exactly wrong with me, I don't know. I do know, however, that the problem is *me*. Not anyone else, just me. It's one of the many reasons I don't go telling people about my problems (excepting that one special person who happens to be closest to me at the moment and my father). Because in the end I'm the only one who can solve it. Only I can stop me from myself.
God only knows what I need to fix this. I wish medication was it. Everyone lives with unrest and frustration, what would we be without at least one real problem going on at all times? I can't seem to figure out why I would be unhappy! I have a job! I have a home! I have hobbies at my access and friends who call me out of my solitude! I have people I see on a regular basis who know my name! I have music and a car! I live in a big beautiful city with so much to do and the OCEAN on my doorstep!
But then, while I have a job, I don't like doing it- it's not challenging, it's not interesting or progressive. In fact everyday feels like one big loop of nothing. It eats at me- gnaws at my stomach, that everyday when Chris asks how my day was I have nothing to say. No story. Nothing changes. Am I craving punishment?! Do I want hardship and pressure?
YEAH. I guess so! I have time to read and draw and design and create but I don't! I won't! Because this problem is me. Perhaps it's an exacerbated laziness. Perhaps it's early detection of bipolar disease (entirely possible). You know I don’t want to hurt anyone with my insanity.
My poor little brother has no car and had to find a new job. No girlfriend. And he's getting into those *later* classes that start to rip your heart out with the work you put into it. A degree in Phyc much less putting Arabic on top of it all. He is the one who needs love and support. Not me. Not this silly ranting girl full of nothing to share. No place to rest her heart. As I said, God only knows what I need- but could it be I have a heart brimming with love and no place to dump it? I can feel it pouring over my hands as I look for an appropriate container with whom or where I can share it. Not just someONE I can give my heart to (all the way) but a good project or a good job. I want someone or something that needs me.
You would think this time of peace would be one to revel in. I have all this stuff in me and no relief. And even there- the only one stopping me from putting it anywhere is my common sense. What I wouldn't give for a wild or insane moment where I get to jump off a cliff into the "End of the World" (Ender's Game reference, don't worry I'm not suicidal). I want to fly to some remote place and get lost. I want to suffocate just a little bit and come out fine. Did you know today I was almost late to work because I sat at the edge of my bed and day dreamed too long? Seriously? I zoned out. And then I thought the next stupidest thing- 'I should really schedule a time to daydream so it doesn't get in the way of life'.
Even I know how sick that is.
Ah yes. Reason #2 of many that I don't share these thoughts- I don't want to torture anyone who really cares about me with the knowledge that they really *can't* help me. So don't you worry about me. It's all in my head. It's all my own fault. If only I'd stop thinking about it!
Maybe I just need time. Perhaps some huge event will happen or perhaps not! Maybe I'm supposed to be learning something. Do you think perhaps this is just another shining chance for me to prove how I fail at my own life? When the game is down and I'm on my own, I fail.
And reading over this again re-emphasizes to me how crazy I am. How I'm digging my own pit.
I need a change. A really big change.
I know I'm crazy.
I guess all I can do is wait it out. And stare longingly at that cliff…
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