Clark Kent was at The Daily Planet. He had just gotten there, and the place was already bustling. Lois Lane walked up to him. "Finally. Clark, where the hell have you been?"
"I'm sorry." He had two coffees and two danishes in his hands. He lifted up his hands to show her the reason for his lateness. "I bought breakfast."
She looked at the meager offering and rolled her eyes. "Clark, there's no time to eat. There's a big story developing in Japan. All of these strange attacks have been happening. People have been drained of energy. The attacks have been going on for some time, but we just got wind of it. The chief wants to see you."
"Okay. Here." He handed her the danish and black coffee. "If you find time, eat." Attacks going on in Japan, and him not knowing about it? How could that be? He tried his best to not look distressed.
She took it. "Thanks, Clark."
"No prob." Clark went into Perry White's office, and closed the door.
Lois looked at Clark as he approached Mr. White's office. His pallor had suddenly become so pale.
"You wanted to see me, Chief?"
"Oh, Clark. I want you to go to Japan to write an article about the goings-on. I assume Lois already told you about it. You'll leave ASAP. Go back home and get packed. Here's the plane ticket." Perry handed Clark the ticket. "You have a hotel room at the "Tokyo Sleeping Palace."
"Okay, Chief." Clark walked out of Perry's office in a daze of sorts. Why hadn't he heard the screams of the people being attacked? His super-hearing should have detected the screams. He should have known. It was his job to protect everyone in the world, and he couldn't do it. He went to his apartment, and packed some essentials. He hoped it wouldn't take too long. He hailed a taxi, even though flying would have been more sensible. He just didn't feel like flying today. The shock of what was going on in the east was still too shocking to him. The cab pulled up to the Metropolis International Airport. He had about half an hour to kill. He decided to just wander around aimlessly. The thoughts of the people becoming victims to the energy draining flooded his thoughts. When the thirty minutes were up, he boarded the plane. His ticket was first class. He wouldn't be able to enjoy the flight, though. Not as long as there were people in danger somewhere. He smiled faintly to himself. At least he'd be able to help the people of Japan now.
Meanwhile, in the Negaverse, survivors of Queen Beryl's army were slowly licking their wounds. Armedite, one of Queen Beryl's greatest warriors, had been dubbed leader by the rest of the survivors. He had been trying to develop a plan to destroy Sailor Moon and the rest of the scouts while they were recuperating from their humiliating defeat that day at the North Pole. He had been studying Queen Beryl's books of allies, but nothing was helping. Most of them had been destroyed or lost in battles with Queen Serenity during the Silver Millenium, and were beyond summoning back. Damn it all to hell! He was so frustrated. He threw the book down, and groaned. His head hurt, and so did his eyes. Armedite raked his fingers through his dark-brown hair. How long had he been searching for allies? The search was beginning to look absolutely fruitless. Maybe he should establish some allies of his own. He tried to think. Who could he summon for help? Suddenly, something came to him. He had heard of a being of very great strength. Its name was Colossus, if he remembered right. He was from a planet from long ago. Krypton, he believed. A chain of natural disasters had destroyed the planet, and no one had survived. He could summon this creature. Queen Beryl told him of it long ago, when he was still a young man of 18. It had been far away from the moon, and hadn't even heard of the Silver Millenium or Queen Serenity. The creature called Colossus would be perfect. He smiled slightly to himself. Hopefully there would be enough power in the severely depleted dark energy of the Negaverse, but he doubted it. They would have to send a dark warrior soon. Very soon. Perhaps he should do that before he attempted to summon this creature from Krypton. This Colossus character was probably big, and it would take much energy to summon him. Too much. The Negaverse was barely hanging on as it was. It was time for them to reappear. Who should he choose for the important task of collecting the vital energy needed for this wondrous dark kingdom to survive? Most of the warriors had died, from starvation and sickness. The ones who were still alive were starving and could barely walk around. He sighed deeply. That bitch Sailor Moon would pay for what she did to the powerful and unmerciful Dark Kingdom. The Negaverse would rise again. He would make certain of that. Armedite stepped out of his private office, which used to belong to the malevolent Queen Beryl. Armedite had secretly loved her, but she saw him as just another face in a crowd of millions of followers. It hurt him deeply when she took the pitiful Prince Darien as her king. He had almost rejoiced when his memories were restored, but his happiness was short-lived. The queen had died later that day, destroyed by Sailor Moon. Just thinking of that blond-haired Sailor twit left a bitter taste in his mouth. Armedite walked up to the stage, which Queen Beryl had used to make so many speeches. He took a deep breath, and began speaking. "People of the Negaverse," he started, "We are in desperate need of energy, as you all know. I have developed a plan, but unfortunately, it can not be executed." He paused until all of the murmurs of anger and disappointment faded. "Then again, perhaps it can be executed. My comrades, we need energy. I must summon a creature that has been destroyed. Whoever takes this important task of collecting energy will be greatly rewarded." A young woman of twenty-one years stepped forward. He recognized her as Salimacite, Jadite's younger sister. A smile went across his lips very briefly. She would be a promising choice.
"Very well, Salimacite. Do what you must to collect energy."
"Yes sir, Armedite. You won't regret your choice."
"Make sure I don't." She nodded and disappeared in a swirling bolt of red energy. He smiled inwardly. She reminded him so much of him at that age. He had heard of her from Jadite before he had been put in an eternal stasis. Armedite suddenly felt very faint. He needed to conserve what energy he had. He went to his suite and lay down on the bed that used to belong to Queen Beryl. He was determined to succeed where she had failed. He closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep in moments.
Serena woke up and looked over at the alarm clock with blurred vision. Her eyes widened. It was 8:45. She was going to be late again! "Oh no! Luna, why didn't you wake me up?"
"I tried to." Luna said matter-of-factly, "several times, in fact."
"You should have tried harder!" Serena threw on her Crossroads Junior High uniform and jetted out of her room. She ran downstairs and almost fell on the way down. She caught herself just in time. Serena grabbed her lunch bag that her mother had packed with care. "Thanks for lunch, Mom." Serena yelled as she ran by. She put her shoes on, and ran out the door. "Oh, I am SO late. It's detention time again. She turned a corner, and bumped into a tall man. She fell on her butt and sat there, stunned. Serena looked up, and saw one of the most handsome men she had ever seen in her entire life. His looks were parallel to Darien's. The tall man smiled down at her friendly, and offered her a hand. Serena accepted it, and he pulled her up to her feet.
"Are you all right," the man asked.
"Yes. I apologize for bumping into you." She gave a small bow of respect, which was customary in Japan.
He smiled at her, gently. "It's okay. Where were you going in such a hurry?"
"School." Serena looked at her watch. "Oh no! I'm late! I have to go!" Serena ran around the man, and went full speed. Who was that handsome man? She had felt strange vibes around him. Oh no! She was starting to sound like Raye! She kept running until she got to school, but the gates were already locked. She was too late. She felt tears sting her eyes, but she fought them back fiercely. She was going to be in so much trouble! She couldn't go back home, not until school was supposed to be over. Maybe her mom wouldn't know. Serena walked slowly around town for a while, window-shopping. Serena went into the Cherry Blossom Park and walked around slowly, enjoying the smell of the flowers and cherry blossoms. She looked at her watch. It was 11:30, lunchtime. Her stomach growled ferociously. Even though she wasn't at school, didn't mean she couldn't enjoy lunch hour. Serena went to a park bench and sat down. She placed her book bag down, and slowly opened her lunch bag. It had a sandwich, carrots, soda, and a chocolate muffin. Her mom always had to slip something healthy in there. Her mouth watered at the thought of getting to eat. She was enjoying her lunch, when she felt someone sit down beside her. She looked over and suppressed a gasp of surprise. It was the man she had bumped into earlier. Her heartbeat quickened slightly. Why did she react that way? She only reacted that way with Darien. He smiled at her. He had dark hair and hazel eyes. This mystery man was so dreamy. He looked like he had a great body under his business suit. He had white teeth, and his skin was an olive color.
The man nodded and said "Hi."
"Hello."
"My name's Clark Kent." He extended her hand, and she shook it gingerly.
"My name's Serena. Serena Tsukino."
"It's nice to meet you properly, Serena."
"Yeah, same here." Clark studied the girl closely. She looked like she was about fourteen, maybe fifteen. She had long blond hair, which was fashioned in pigtails with two buns on either side of her head. She could only describe them as meatballs. He chuckled to himself. She had wide blue eyes. They had a kindness and wisdom in them beyond her years. "So, Serena, what are you doing here?"
"Well, the gates were locked before I got to school, and I can't get in."
"Oh. I'm sorry. Was it because you ran into me?"
"Only partly. I was running late anyway." Clark smiled a dashing smile at her, which made Serena's heart go all a-flutter. "So, umm, Clark, what do you do?" Serena felt her cheeks begin to turn pink.
"I'm a reporter for the Daily Planet." Clark hid a smirk, as he noticed she was blushing.
"You mean the really famous newspaper in the U.S.?"
"Yeah. That's the one."
The tension in Serena's voice eased immediately, which always happened when something made her excited. "That's so awesome! I've never met someone like you before."
He grinned at her pleasure. She was so friendly. I hope she stays like this, he thought. It was refreshing to see such a kind soul in such a hateful and chaotic world. "So, Serena, what grade are you in?"
"I'm in ninth grade. I can't wait to get to high school."
"I felt exactly the same way when I was your age." She looked at him and smiled. "What are you going to do all day?"
"I don't know. I certainly can't go home."
"Well, I'm sort of lost. Maybe you could help me find my way back to the hotel?"
"I thought reporters were supposed to be observant," Serena said in a playful, teasing manner.
He laughed. "Maybe you give me a tour of downtown Tokyo?"
"Sure. You'll love it."
"Great. It will be a great honor to have such a lovely escort." Clark winked at Serena in what was supposed to be a playful manner, but it held some flirtatious undertones. What was he doing? She was only fourteen years old!
"Come on!" Serena grabbed Clark's hand enthusiastically. Clark felt little electric jolts from her touch. Did she feel the same? They walked out of the park and into the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. It was an amazing city. He really liked it. The girl named Serena was good company. Serena pointed to a beautiful big tower overlooking the city majestically. "That's Tokyo Tower."
"Wow, that's pretty amazing." He looked up at the tower and smiled.
"Isn't it, though?" It held a lot more awe for Serena, because she knew that the Crystal Palace would someday be there in the stead of the Tokyo Tower. Serena and Clark walked for about an hour as Serena showed Clark various sites. They walked by an ice cream shop, and he noticed her looking longingly inside. He smiled, and got the hint.
"Do you want an ice cream sundae or something?"
"Yeah!" She dragged him inside and plopped down into a booth. She raised her hand to get some service.
"Can I help you?" the man who came to their service asked.
"Yes. I'd like a triple hot fudge sundae. Extra hot fudge and whipped cream, please. Oh, Clark, is it okay if I get a hamburger and fries, too?"
"Sure. Go ahead. Don't worry about cost." He smiled at her.
"Wow! Thank you! In that case, I'd like a double cheeseburger, large onion rings, a chocolate soda, and for dessert the triple hot fudge sundae with extra hot fudge and whipped cream. You'd better put another cherry on there, too," she looked over at Clark. "Are you sure that's okay?"
"Oh yeah, order right ahead."
"Okay. Thank you so much! That will be all." She smiled at the waiter.
"Very good. How about you, sir?"
"Hmm, I guess I'll have a hamburger, french fries, Coke, and a hot fudge sundae.
"I'll be back in a moment." What Serena had ordered surprised him. She looked like she didn't eat that much. Ah, the wonders of high metabolism. The waiter came back with their food, and Serena dug right in. Clark ate his food, watching Serena. How could someone make such a pig of themselves so attractively? Killing the thought as soon as it entered his head, Clark finished his meal.
"This is so good," Serena said through bites.
"It is, isn't it?" Clark smiled at her. After Serena finally finished eating, Clark paid the bill and left a tip, and they walked out of the sundae shop.
"Thank you for the meal." Serena was so satiated, she felt as if she was going to burst. I can't believe I ate so much, she thought. And in front of such a hunkmeister! Serena felt something for Clark, and she didn't like it. She had someone, so why did she like this reporter from America?
"It was my pleasure. Call it a thank you gift for showing me around Tokyo." Serena looked up at Clark and felt herself blush again. She began feeling weak in the knees. Uh-oh! Serena searched her mind to end this moment between them.
"Didn't you say you needed to find your hotel?"
"Yes I did. It's the Tokyo Sleeping Palace."
"Wow. That's swanky."
"Yeah. Tell me about it."
"The Tokyo Sleeping Palace is halfway across town."
"Wow. How long will it take?"
"Probably about an hour."
"That short of time?"
Serena smiled enigmatically. "I know some shortcuts." Subsequently, the shortcut went right past Darien's college.
"Okay. Let's get moving." Serena and Clark walked along the street, laughing and talking. It just so happens that Darien was getting out of one of his pre-med classes as they passed his college. He saw Serena walk by as he walked out, books in his hand. Why wasn't she at school? Knowing her, she had been locked out. He was about to yell for her, when he noticed the man she was with. His mouth opened slightly. They were laughing and talking, and generally having a really good time. Jealousy gripped his chest like a vice. What was she doing with this man? Did she skip school to be with him? Suspicions started to whiz around in his brain. He decided to follow them, to either confirm or disprove his fears. Darien trailed far behind so Serena wouldn't notice him. They were talking about things he couldn't hear, and that caused him a mental anguish he hadn't felt in awhile. There was a lot of jealously coursing through his veins right now. He pursed his lips and narrowed his eyes as he followed. He saw Serena and the man go into the Tokyo Sleeping Palace. Why would she go into a hotel with a person he had never met? What was she going to do? Maybe she was just going to get a drink from the bar? It was hot out today. Sweat trickled down Darien's forehead. He'd wait here, and confront her when she came back out.
Serena and Clark walked into his room. Serena plopped down onto the bed and sprawled out on it, enjoying the air conditioning. "I bet you're really thirsty. It's really hot out."
"Yeah. I am."
"Well then, do you want some water?"
"Yes, please." Clark opened the mini fridge and tossed a bottle of Naya on the bed next to her. Serena sat up and opened the bottle to drink its cool contents.
"Hey Serena, why don't you stay up here and get cooled off? I don't want you getting heat stroke or anything." He smiled teasingly.
"That sounds good." Serena really enjoyed Clark's company. He seemed like a nice man. They talked for awhile. Serena discovered some really interesting things about Clark. He had won a few Pulitzer Prizes for his exceptional articles that he wrote, and on the most dangerous things you could think about. "So, Clark, there's been a question itching at me for awhile. Why are you in Japan?"
"Oh, well I'm investigating some unexplained incidents concerning energy being mysteriously drained from people."
"Oh wow." Serena said. The Americans had finally found out about what was going on. "Hey, have you heard of the Sailor Scouts?"
"Sailor Scouts?"
"Yeah. They fight the monsters that drain away the people's energy."
"Monsters? That's what's doing it? Have you seen these Sailor Scouts?"
"No. I've just heard my friend Molly talk about them."
"Molly, huh?"
Uh oh. I said too much. Serena though. "So, did you always want to be a reporter," Serena asked, changing the subject.
"No. I wanted to play basketball when I was younger."
"Were you good?"
"I was on the college basketball team."
"Wow. That's cool. Can I ask you why you didn't go for a professional career in basketball?
"Reporting called me." Serena nodded.
"It was sort of like destiny?"
"Yeah, I guess so." Clark smiled that dashing smile that never failed to give Serena butterflies. After being in there for a good while, she decided it was time to leave. Serena departed from the hotel and walked out onto the street. She saw Darien leaning against the outside wall of the hotel. "Hi Darien!" She walked up to him. Why was he here?
"Oh, hello Serena." There was a bit of hostility in his voice. Serena chose to ignore it.
"So, how long have you been here?" The enthusiasm she felt from seeing Darien faded as soon as he spoke
"I've been here ever since you went into the hotel with that man. Who is he, Serena?
"His name is Clark. He got lost, and I showed him back to the hotel."
"So, it takes that long, does it?" The hostility, no, jealousy was still in his voice.
"Well, we talked for awhile. He invited me up so that I could get a drink of water and cool off. It's awful hot out, you know."
"Oh, and it takes that long? I doubt that. What else did you do up there?" Darien wouldn't come right out and say what he was thinking. What was coming over him?
Serena glared at him. "We drank water and talked. If you think that we did anything else, you are sadly mistaken." Her jaw clenched as she held back tears.
"Come on, Serena. You were there for over an hour. Don't tell me nothing happened."
"It's the truth."
Darien snorted in disbelief. "Yeah right." He started to walk away, when Serena grabbed his arm. That stopped him.
"How dare you? I would never sleep with him!" She slapped him across the face and then began walking away in a huff. The slap knocked Darien into his senses. How could he do that? He messed up again. Darien started running after her.
"Serena! Wait, I'm sorry." He caught up to her and turned her around. He looked in her eyes. Before she looked away he saw that there were tears threatening to fall. He was making her cry again. Regret tore at his heart. Why did he have to be such an idiot? "I'm sorry. I never should have accused you of such a thing. I know you would never do that." She looked at him, and a single tear slid down her cheek. Darien tenderly wiped it away with his thumb.
"It's okay, Darien. Just don't let it happen again," she said half-playfully. He smiled at her, and bent down to give her a kiss. Serena stood on her toes to meet him halfway. As their lips met, their arms wrapped around each other's bodies in a warm embrace.
"Let's get you home, love." Darien kissed Serena lightly again, and he walked her home, his hand in hers.
"I'm sorry." He had two coffees and two danishes in his hands. He lifted up his hands to show her the reason for his lateness. "I bought breakfast."
She looked at the meager offering and rolled her eyes. "Clark, there's no time to eat. There's a big story developing in Japan. All of these strange attacks have been happening. People have been drained of energy. The attacks have been going on for some time, but we just got wind of it. The chief wants to see you."
"Okay. Here." He handed her the danish and black coffee. "If you find time, eat." Attacks going on in Japan, and him not knowing about it? How could that be? He tried his best to not look distressed.
She took it. "Thanks, Clark."
"No prob." Clark went into Perry White's office, and closed the door.
Lois looked at Clark as he approached Mr. White's office. His pallor had suddenly become so pale.
"You wanted to see me, Chief?"
"Oh, Clark. I want you to go to Japan to write an article about the goings-on. I assume Lois already told you about it. You'll leave ASAP. Go back home and get packed. Here's the plane ticket." Perry handed Clark the ticket. "You have a hotel room at the "Tokyo Sleeping Palace."
"Okay, Chief." Clark walked out of Perry's office in a daze of sorts. Why hadn't he heard the screams of the people being attacked? His super-hearing should have detected the screams. He should have known. It was his job to protect everyone in the world, and he couldn't do it. He went to his apartment, and packed some essentials. He hoped it wouldn't take too long. He hailed a taxi, even though flying would have been more sensible. He just didn't feel like flying today. The shock of what was going on in the east was still too shocking to him. The cab pulled up to the Metropolis International Airport. He had about half an hour to kill. He decided to just wander around aimlessly. The thoughts of the people becoming victims to the energy draining flooded his thoughts. When the thirty minutes were up, he boarded the plane. His ticket was first class. He wouldn't be able to enjoy the flight, though. Not as long as there were people in danger somewhere. He smiled faintly to himself. At least he'd be able to help the people of Japan now.
Meanwhile, in the Negaverse, survivors of Queen Beryl's army were slowly licking their wounds. Armedite, one of Queen Beryl's greatest warriors, had been dubbed leader by the rest of the survivors. He had been trying to develop a plan to destroy Sailor Moon and the rest of the scouts while they were recuperating from their humiliating defeat that day at the North Pole. He had been studying Queen Beryl's books of allies, but nothing was helping. Most of them had been destroyed or lost in battles with Queen Serenity during the Silver Millenium, and were beyond summoning back. Damn it all to hell! He was so frustrated. He threw the book down, and groaned. His head hurt, and so did his eyes. Armedite raked his fingers through his dark-brown hair. How long had he been searching for allies? The search was beginning to look absolutely fruitless. Maybe he should establish some allies of his own. He tried to think. Who could he summon for help? Suddenly, something came to him. He had heard of a being of very great strength. Its name was Colossus, if he remembered right. He was from a planet from long ago. Krypton, he believed. A chain of natural disasters had destroyed the planet, and no one had survived. He could summon this creature. Queen Beryl told him of it long ago, when he was still a young man of 18. It had been far away from the moon, and hadn't even heard of the Silver Millenium or Queen Serenity. The creature called Colossus would be perfect. He smiled slightly to himself. Hopefully there would be enough power in the severely depleted dark energy of the Negaverse, but he doubted it. They would have to send a dark warrior soon. Very soon. Perhaps he should do that before he attempted to summon this creature from Krypton. This Colossus character was probably big, and it would take much energy to summon him. Too much. The Negaverse was barely hanging on as it was. It was time for them to reappear. Who should he choose for the important task of collecting the vital energy needed for this wondrous dark kingdom to survive? Most of the warriors had died, from starvation and sickness. The ones who were still alive were starving and could barely walk around. He sighed deeply. That bitch Sailor Moon would pay for what she did to the powerful and unmerciful Dark Kingdom. The Negaverse would rise again. He would make certain of that. Armedite stepped out of his private office, which used to belong to the malevolent Queen Beryl. Armedite had secretly loved her, but she saw him as just another face in a crowd of millions of followers. It hurt him deeply when she took the pitiful Prince Darien as her king. He had almost rejoiced when his memories were restored, but his happiness was short-lived. The queen had died later that day, destroyed by Sailor Moon. Just thinking of that blond-haired Sailor twit left a bitter taste in his mouth. Armedite walked up to the stage, which Queen Beryl had used to make so many speeches. He took a deep breath, and began speaking. "People of the Negaverse," he started, "We are in desperate need of energy, as you all know. I have developed a plan, but unfortunately, it can not be executed." He paused until all of the murmurs of anger and disappointment faded. "Then again, perhaps it can be executed. My comrades, we need energy. I must summon a creature that has been destroyed. Whoever takes this important task of collecting energy will be greatly rewarded." A young woman of twenty-one years stepped forward. He recognized her as Salimacite, Jadite's younger sister. A smile went across his lips very briefly. She would be a promising choice.
"Very well, Salimacite. Do what you must to collect energy."
"Yes sir, Armedite. You won't regret your choice."
"Make sure I don't." She nodded and disappeared in a swirling bolt of red energy. He smiled inwardly. She reminded him so much of him at that age. He had heard of her from Jadite before he had been put in an eternal stasis. Armedite suddenly felt very faint. He needed to conserve what energy he had. He went to his suite and lay down on the bed that used to belong to Queen Beryl. He was determined to succeed where she had failed. He closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep in moments.
Serena woke up and looked over at the alarm clock with blurred vision. Her eyes widened. It was 8:45. She was going to be late again! "Oh no! Luna, why didn't you wake me up?"
"I tried to." Luna said matter-of-factly, "several times, in fact."
"You should have tried harder!" Serena threw on her Crossroads Junior High uniform and jetted out of her room. She ran downstairs and almost fell on the way down. She caught herself just in time. Serena grabbed her lunch bag that her mother had packed with care. "Thanks for lunch, Mom." Serena yelled as she ran by. She put her shoes on, and ran out the door. "Oh, I am SO late. It's detention time again. She turned a corner, and bumped into a tall man. She fell on her butt and sat there, stunned. Serena looked up, and saw one of the most handsome men she had ever seen in her entire life. His looks were parallel to Darien's. The tall man smiled down at her friendly, and offered her a hand. Serena accepted it, and he pulled her up to her feet.
"Are you all right," the man asked.
"Yes. I apologize for bumping into you." She gave a small bow of respect, which was customary in Japan.
He smiled at her, gently. "It's okay. Where were you going in such a hurry?"
"School." Serena looked at her watch. "Oh no! I'm late! I have to go!" Serena ran around the man, and went full speed. Who was that handsome man? She had felt strange vibes around him. Oh no! She was starting to sound like Raye! She kept running until she got to school, but the gates were already locked. She was too late. She felt tears sting her eyes, but she fought them back fiercely. She was going to be in so much trouble! She couldn't go back home, not until school was supposed to be over. Maybe her mom wouldn't know. Serena walked slowly around town for a while, window-shopping. Serena went into the Cherry Blossom Park and walked around slowly, enjoying the smell of the flowers and cherry blossoms. She looked at her watch. It was 11:30, lunchtime. Her stomach growled ferociously. Even though she wasn't at school, didn't mean she couldn't enjoy lunch hour. Serena went to a park bench and sat down. She placed her book bag down, and slowly opened her lunch bag. It had a sandwich, carrots, soda, and a chocolate muffin. Her mom always had to slip something healthy in there. Her mouth watered at the thought of getting to eat. She was enjoying her lunch, when she felt someone sit down beside her. She looked over and suppressed a gasp of surprise. It was the man she had bumped into earlier. Her heartbeat quickened slightly. Why did she react that way? She only reacted that way with Darien. He smiled at her. He had dark hair and hazel eyes. This mystery man was so dreamy. He looked like he had a great body under his business suit. He had white teeth, and his skin was an olive color.
The man nodded and said "Hi."
"Hello."
"My name's Clark Kent." He extended her hand, and she shook it gingerly.
"My name's Serena. Serena Tsukino."
"It's nice to meet you properly, Serena."
"Yeah, same here." Clark studied the girl closely. She looked like she was about fourteen, maybe fifteen. She had long blond hair, which was fashioned in pigtails with two buns on either side of her head. She could only describe them as meatballs. He chuckled to himself. She had wide blue eyes. They had a kindness and wisdom in them beyond her years. "So, Serena, what are you doing here?"
"Well, the gates were locked before I got to school, and I can't get in."
"Oh. I'm sorry. Was it because you ran into me?"
"Only partly. I was running late anyway." Clark smiled a dashing smile at her, which made Serena's heart go all a-flutter. "So, umm, Clark, what do you do?" Serena felt her cheeks begin to turn pink.
"I'm a reporter for the Daily Planet." Clark hid a smirk, as he noticed she was blushing.
"You mean the really famous newspaper in the U.S.?"
"Yeah. That's the one."
The tension in Serena's voice eased immediately, which always happened when something made her excited. "That's so awesome! I've never met someone like you before."
He grinned at her pleasure. She was so friendly. I hope she stays like this, he thought. It was refreshing to see such a kind soul in such a hateful and chaotic world. "So, Serena, what grade are you in?"
"I'm in ninth grade. I can't wait to get to high school."
"I felt exactly the same way when I was your age." She looked at him and smiled. "What are you going to do all day?"
"I don't know. I certainly can't go home."
"Well, I'm sort of lost. Maybe you could help me find my way back to the hotel?"
"I thought reporters were supposed to be observant," Serena said in a playful, teasing manner.
He laughed. "Maybe you give me a tour of downtown Tokyo?"
"Sure. You'll love it."
"Great. It will be a great honor to have such a lovely escort." Clark winked at Serena in what was supposed to be a playful manner, but it held some flirtatious undertones. What was he doing? She was only fourteen years old!
"Come on!" Serena grabbed Clark's hand enthusiastically. Clark felt little electric jolts from her touch. Did she feel the same? They walked out of the park and into the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. It was an amazing city. He really liked it. The girl named Serena was good company. Serena pointed to a beautiful big tower overlooking the city majestically. "That's Tokyo Tower."
"Wow, that's pretty amazing." He looked up at the tower and smiled.
"Isn't it, though?" It held a lot more awe for Serena, because she knew that the Crystal Palace would someday be there in the stead of the Tokyo Tower. Serena and Clark walked for about an hour as Serena showed Clark various sites. They walked by an ice cream shop, and he noticed her looking longingly inside. He smiled, and got the hint.
"Do you want an ice cream sundae or something?"
"Yeah!" She dragged him inside and plopped down into a booth. She raised her hand to get some service.
"Can I help you?" the man who came to their service asked.
"Yes. I'd like a triple hot fudge sundae. Extra hot fudge and whipped cream, please. Oh, Clark, is it okay if I get a hamburger and fries, too?"
"Sure. Go ahead. Don't worry about cost." He smiled at her.
"Wow! Thank you! In that case, I'd like a double cheeseburger, large onion rings, a chocolate soda, and for dessert the triple hot fudge sundae with extra hot fudge and whipped cream. You'd better put another cherry on there, too," she looked over at Clark. "Are you sure that's okay?"
"Oh yeah, order right ahead."
"Okay. Thank you so much! That will be all." She smiled at the waiter.
"Very good. How about you, sir?"
"Hmm, I guess I'll have a hamburger, french fries, Coke, and a hot fudge sundae.
"I'll be back in a moment." What Serena had ordered surprised him. She looked like she didn't eat that much. Ah, the wonders of high metabolism. The waiter came back with their food, and Serena dug right in. Clark ate his food, watching Serena. How could someone make such a pig of themselves so attractively? Killing the thought as soon as it entered his head, Clark finished his meal.
"This is so good," Serena said through bites.
"It is, isn't it?" Clark smiled at her. After Serena finally finished eating, Clark paid the bill and left a tip, and they walked out of the sundae shop.
"Thank you for the meal." Serena was so satiated, she felt as if she was going to burst. I can't believe I ate so much, she thought. And in front of such a hunkmeister! Serena felt something for Clark, and she didn't like it. She had someone, so why did she like this reporter from America?
"It was my pleasure. Call it a thank you gift for showing me around Tokyo." Serena looked up at Clark and felt herself blush again. She began feeling weak in the knees. Uh-oh! Serena searched her mind to end this moment between them.
"Didn't you say you needed to find your hotel?"
"Yes I did. It's the Tokyo Sleeping Palace."
"Wow. That's swanky."
"Yeah. Tell me about it."
"The Tokyo Sleeping Palace is halfway across town."
"Wow. How long will it take?"
"Probably about an hour."
"That short of time?"
Serena smiled enigmatically. "I know some shortcuts." Subsequently, the shortcut went right past Darien's college.
"Okay. Let's get moving." Serena and Clark walked along the street, laughing and talking. It just so happens that Darien was getting out of one of his pre-med classes as they passed his college. He saw Serena walk by as he walked out, books in his hand. Why wasn't she at school? Knowing her, she had been locked out. He was about to yell for her, when he noticed the man she was with. His mouth opened slightly. They were laughing and talking, and generally having a really good time. Jealousy gripped his chest like a vice. What was she doing with this man? Did she skip school to be with him? Suspicions started to whiz around in his brain. He decided to follow them, to either confirm or disprove his fears. Darien trailed far behind so Serena wouldn't notice him. They were talking about things he couldn't hear, and that caused him a mental anguish he hadn't felt in awhile. There was a lot of jealously coursing through his veins right now. He pursed his lips and narrowed his eyes as he followed. He saw Serena and the man go into the Tokyo Sleeping Palace. Why would she go into a hotel with a person he had never met? What was she going to do? Maybe she was just going to get a drink from the bar? It was hot out today. Sweat trickled down Darien's forehead. He'd wait here, and confront her when she came back out.
Serena and Clark walked into his room. Serena plopped down onto the bed and sprawled out on it, enjoying the air conditioning. "I bet you're really thirsty. It's really hot out."
"Yeah. I am."
"Well then, do you want some water?"
"Yes, please." Clark opened the mini fridge and tossed a bottle of Naya on the bed next to her. Serena sat up and opened the bottle to drink its cool contents.
"Hey Serena, why don't you stay up here and get cooled off? I don't want you getting heat stroke or anything." He smiled teasingly.
"That sounds good." Serena really enjoyed Clark's company. He seemed like a nice man. They talked for awhile. Serena discovered some really interesting things about Clark. He had won a few Pulitzer Prizes for his exceptional articles that he wrote, and on the most dangerous things you could think about. "So, Clark, there's been a question itching at me for awhile. Why are you in Japan?"
"Oh, well I'm investigating some unexplained incidents concerning energy being mysteriously drained from people."
"Oh wow." Serena said. The Americans had finally found out about what was going on. "Hey, have you heard of the Sailor Scouts?"
"Sailor Scouts?"
"Yeah. They fight the monsters that drain away the people's energy."
"Monsters? That's what's doing it? Have you seen these Sailor Scouts?"
"No. I've just heard my friend Molly talk about them."
"Molly, huh?"
Uh oh. I said too much. Serena though. "So, did you always want to be a reporter," Serena asked, changing the subject.
"No. I wanted to play basketball when I was younger."
"Were you good?"
"I was on the college basketball team."
"Wow. That's cool. Can I ask you why you didn't go for a professional career in basketball?
"Reporting called me." Serena nodded.
"It was sort of like destiny?"
"Yeah, I guess so." Clark smiled that dashing smile that never failed to give Serena butterflies. After being in there for a good while, she decided it was time to leave. Serena departed from the hotel and walked out onto the street. She saw Darien leaning against the outside wall of the hotel. "Hi Darien!" She walked up to him. Why was he here?
"Oh, hello Serena." There was a bit of hostility in his voice. Serena chose to ignore it.
"So, how long have you been here?" The enthusiasm she felt from seeing Darien faded as soon as he spoke
"I've been here ever since you went into the hotel with that man. Who is he, Serena?
"His name is Clark. He got lost, and I showed him back to the hotel."
"So, it takes that long, does it?" The hostility, no, jealousy was still in his voice.
"Well, we talked for awhile. He invited me up so that I could get a drink of water and cool off. It's awful hot out, you know."
"Oh, and it takes that long? I doubt that. What else did you do up there?" Darien wouldn't come right out and say what he was thinking. What was coming over him?
Serena glared at him. "We drank water and talked. If you think that we did anything else, you are sadly mistaken." Her jaw clenched as she held back tears.
"Come on, Serena. You were there for over an hour. Don't tell me nothing happened."
"It's the truth."
Darien snorted in disbelief. "Yeah right." He started to walk away, when Serena grabbed his arm. That stopped him.
"How dare you? I would never sleep with him!" She slapped him across the face and then began walking away in a huff. The slap knocked Darien into his senses. How could he do that? He messed up again. Darien started running after her.
"Serena! Wait, I'm sorry." He caught up to her and turned her around. He looked in her eyes. Before she looked away he saw that there were tears threatening to fall. He was making her cry again. Regret tore at his heart. Why did he have to be such an idiot? "I'm sorry. I never should have accused you of such a thing. I know you would never do that." She looked at him, and a single tear slid down her cheek. Darien tenderly wiped it away with his thumb.
"It's okay, Darien. Just don't let it happen again," she said half-playfully. He smiled at her, and bent down to give her a kiss. Serena stood on her toes to meet him halfway. As their lips met, their arms wrapped around each other's bodies in a warm embrace.
"Let's get you home, love." Darien kissed Serena lightly again, and he walked her home, his hand in hers.