Dear Readers,
Hellooooo! SailorLeia here! It's Late Monday-Early Tuesday! NEW chapter TIME! Sorry this is getting out a little (a lot) later than I'd planned. Though my final read through took WAY longer than I'd initially planned! (Sigh) Life is a funny thing sometimes, though I hope it was worth the wait for all of you that have been anticipating this update!
Next post day will mark the end of my 'Much Ado Week!' Part of me is SOOOO thrilled, because I love how much growth and closeness has been achieved in these last few chapters. Though a part of me is a little let down, ya know! I've had way too much fun with this, drawing it out, when it was only supposed to be one episode, and one chapter reference! I hope all of you have enjoyed it as much as I have. You guys make it all worthwhile! Now before I start this ride, put on your seat belts, pull down the safety bars and hold on tight. We're going to start this thing right!
Special Thanks to Everyone who reiviewed: James Birdsong (You were my first review this time around, thank you so much for writing in [I'm always a total wreck till I get that first review telling me that I did okay]. Hope you enjoy this chapter as well, Much Love!), Moon Mage Goddess (Wow, I'm so glad that you're reading and enjoying! Also that you were that excited to hear I'd updated, Bless you! My head is taking FOREVER to heal, though I'm staying optimistic and I have to say writing helps. Thank you for your kind comments and I hope that this is reaching you with sunny skies! Much Love!), CaseClosed621 (I'm thrilled that your favorite part was Ann's second entrance! I'm elated that you enjoyed it even though you feel bad for Serena. I felt terrible for her too, but I liked it. I thought everyone would hate it, to be honest. So hearing someone liked it, really made my week! Like you I had been looking through all my recent chapters going, 'it has been too good lately, let's muck it up a little with some more Ann and Alan!' I have to say, their fun to write for too, which surprised me! I hope that this chapter reaches you on this Monday with plenty of blue skies! I also hope you enjoy this installment as much as you enjoyed past chapters. Thank you so much for writing in, you're definitely my kind of reader! Bless you and Much Love!), tiffany aka basketcase (Thank you for the ever-glorious comments! You always brighten my day so much! I'm so glad that you liked this latest Prince twist; I was honestly terrified that you guys wouldn't like it! I'm glad that you liked the way I got Raye and Chad together! Also thank you for commenting on the Knight's interaction, and Jordan's part of the tale. I'm so glad that you enjoyed! I'm also ridiculously happy that you're anticipating how Johnny and Mina will get together. I'm excited about that too, though it's quite possible you and I could be the only ones. I'm still stocked! Bless you, thank you so much for writing in! Hope this reaches you with plenty of sunshine! Much Love!), KageNoNeko (Yes, but it's like you said, Serenity messing with him. She's having a little too much fun with the situation that Darien is constantly talking himself into. She can see that he's so convinced that he's a terrible person for loving Serena and Serenity at the same time. He's so committed; she believes he would miss a neon sign pointing to Serena as Serenity. So she's trying to get him to see he needs to relax… telling him it's okay to have fun, that he doesn't have to be so serious…Which what Serena has always done for him, remind him that he need to let lose. Like Mother, like daughter, or at least that's my personal take on it. In this chapter, hopefully things will be explained a little better. Though thank you so much for your comments, they always brighten my day, and hope this reaches you with Happy times! Bless you and Much Love!), Sophie (Wow, so glad that you found my story, and enjoyed it! Hope you're still reading and loving it, thank you so much for writing in! Much Love!), and IceQueenBarbarien (Yes, that was my longest chapter yet. Though I'm thrilled you enjoied it, and hope you like this one too! Much Love!)
Dedicated to our dear Hannah-Banana, for inspiring me with a fun part of this chapter. Not even meaning to, when I last saw her. Also for being one of the best people I know, growing up is tough, but more fun with you around! So this is for you, our adopted sister!
"Fifteen Ways To Make Your Prince Remember You Exist"
Chapter 14 – Much Ado Sunday
TPPRS or The Princess-Prince Reconnection Scheme
Attempt Four (And Yes this is about our prince and princess!) – Luna and Artemis' Report from their Balcony watch of Serena and Darien.
(Noted by a seriously pumped Mina – though the only reason that they're not reporting it themselves… is because they're cats… anyway)
Summary: Wanting to be of help somehow, and not being able to help at all with Raye's preparations. Our clever feline guardians, of course decided to exhaust themselves with preparation for our new courses of action. All revolving around our princess' new news from our former parents of the Silver Millennium. Of course being cats, they grew bored with this hopeless seeming feat, moments after beginning. That is until they decided to pursue a new approach. That landed them keeping surveillance of Serena while she was with Darien from his neighbor's balcony. They were watching Raye's big concert together up there, with Andrew and the munchkin they've been taking care of all week. Around the time that Raye performed her last song, things got downright steamy!
For when the song was finished, Andrew volunteered to usher the baby off to his crib, giving our Prince and Princess a moment alone on the darkened balcony.
They tell me that the Prince had his arms around Serena practically the whole conversation. As if that wasn't hot enough, there was also a moment that things became very quiet and when our feline friends peeked to see what had made them quiet. They were surprised to see Serena and Darien in a tight embrace on the verge of kissing. Both were leaning in for it, both obviously wanted it… until the baby started crying making them pause.
Though our princess, the little devil in her, did not let the opportunity slip by without being eventful. She kissed the prince's cheek, and whispered something to him. Before slipping inside to attend to the baby, Darien in tow.
Accomplishments? - For one thing Serena is coming along nicely, I think we've taught her well! Darien is definitely attracted to her, he sounds very interested. Boys just don't do things like that unless their interested; especially guys like our prince. While she seems comfortable and happy, for sure. Our princess is a sweet and wonderful person, though I know for a fact, she doesn't just go around kissing people.
But enough of my jabber, what do you guys think?
-Mina (Or Venus)
Raye's Opening Rant –WHOO! HOT! (Can I note that this feels totally weird coming from me… one of Darien's many ex's) Though I have to say, he was never that romantic with me, when we were an item. Like Mina, I think the princess isn't doing too bad! Though I still would have at least pecked those lips.
Lita's Liberation – I agree with Raye! How did she NOT kiss that boy's lips! I would have, and I don't even really have any feelings for the guy!
Amy's Reminder – Yes, but Lita you're boy-CRAZY! Remember?
Lita's Liberation Part two – I digress!
Chad's Chat - Hey Mina! Who knew Serena was such a tiger, right! Grrr! I love it, man! She's really putting herself out there. I think Darien really likes what he's seeing too! I'm happy for them, it's a great start!
Amy's True Analysis – Hooray for Serena, she's making great progress and it looks like she doesn't need as much help as we'd thought. I'm proud of her! Though I say we keep an eye on her regardless. I think our hand in this should remain settle, especially given her advancement!
Greg's Oration – Yes, I think it's all great! Though I must agree with Raye and Lita to a degree. He wanted to kiss her, and she wanted to kiss him, but they were interrupted. Her little peek will encourage him to try again sooner rather than later… Though they better kiss soon, or he'll get discouraged and won't try. We need him to TRY!
Ken's 'Hell of a Try!' – Whoa, how can I follow the G-man when he gets that serious? I have to side with Greg though, something needs to happen; and if it doesn't, we may need to assist a little more. Sere's seriously done well on her own so far, so let's see what happens before making any new moves.
Mina's Monolog– Thanks everyone, for your input, I guess this concludes this session of our planning before Serena arrives. Thank goodness she was a little late right?
Amy's Point – Ah, Mina, we can't close a session of this book without input from everyone. John isn't here yet, so we can't just end the session without him.
Mina's Exception – He couldn't have anything to say that will be that useful. I think we're good.
Johnny's Entrance –So nice to know that I'm missed when I'm gone Sailor V.
Mina's Remark –Put that stupid apple your chewing so loudly, on top of your head, and let's see who misses you.
Johnny's Jibe – I think Serena deserves far more credit than we're giving her. She's in love with a man that clearly doesn't remember that he loves her too. Though she's been able to chip away at him little by little, successfully. She's shown strength, maturity beyond her years, all while never being too obvious or over bearing enough to hurt the man. With (let's be honest) minimal help from us, her loyal supporters and friends.
I must admit that just watching these two is teaching me a lot about what love really can do. It's a fascinating thing to behold, and it's different for all of us. Even in this small group of pairs we've got going.
My bottom line is, she's tougher and better at this stuff than probably all of us combined. I think we should put more belief behind her. Only helping when she comes to us and says to please help. For so far, she's done so beautifully on her own.
Mina's Answer - Great advise, except I know Serena a little better than you do. Trust me, she wouldn't ask us for help even if she needed it. She would feel like she would be interfering too much, so I suggest we leave her be as some of you are suggesting. Though I recommend that none of us take our 'eye off the ball,' I fear the very moment we're not paying attention, someone will get hurt.
Johnny's Reply – You just can't let me say anything without a remark can you?"
Raye's Closing Rant: While the denial-partners have at it, I think I'll close this session for another day. Ending result: We're thrilled for our princess though we'll all still be viewing the pair, closely. We all know that it will be Darien who has the power to begin down this enemy, so restoring his memories and place in our team has become everyone's demanding top priority. Till next time!
Serena's Diary
As promised, I woke up early this morning, getting up long before my entire family. I ate, got dressed, and wrote my mom a note reminding her of where I was. Then I dashed off to Darien's apartment so that I could watch Jordan, while he worked. When I arrived, I was right on time; though Darien and I barely said 'hi' or 'bye,' before he was gone.
Jordan was especially fussy for a few hours, though I can't say I blame him. I think it was because Darien's phone was ringing itself off of the hook, all of it was from the same number. The person was calling, literally, every fifteen minutes! Only to hang up without a message, at first I was thinking maybe he had a bill collector on his back. Though the insecure side of myself whispered, 'what if it was a girl?' The fifth time in a row that the phone rang and Jordan began to freak out, I couldn't stand it. So I answered and said "Shields Residence, Hello?"
"SERENA!" The person on the other end screamed as if someone was killing them. It sounded female so I was afraid it was one of my girls trying to reach me. So I panicked and asked, "Who is this?"
"SERENA, WHAT the HELL are you DOING answering DARIEN'S phone? This EARLY in the MORNING!" The person asked, and I realized who I was talking to. It was Ann, I should have known, it looks like stalking is an art form in that family.
"Oh Hi Ann," I greeted pleasantly, "Nice to talk to you too!"
"Shut Up and give the phone to Darien, you waste of skin!" She shouted rudely, while I continued to talk to her in a pleasant voice. Why stoop to her level when she's being that creepy, calling poor Darien every fifteen minutes. I silently hoped this was a new development in her overall scheme; I'd hate to know things have been like this for a while.
"I'm sorry but he's not here, right now-"
"You lying little leech! Why would Darien trust you alone in his place with a child?" She asked rudely.
"If you keep screaming, I'll hang up." I warned.
"No you WILL not! You are going to quit playing these games with me and give Darien the phone."
"Ann, I would gladly, though he is not here."
"Then WHERE is he you GUTLESS toad?" She screamed.
"Working not that it's ANY of YOUR business." I retorted, stooping a little bit to her level, though how much can one person stand?
"And you're supervising the brat?"
"He's not a BRAT, He's a BABY, and at least I know how to change a diaper without a pee-explosion." I shot back, while Ann shouted over me.
"He's just as bratty and unbearable as you, when is Darien getting off?" She asked, while I said honestly, "I have no idea."
"Oh, I forgot who I'm talking to, you probably have to be reminded how to open a can, regularly. I'll just keep calling till I catch him, thanks for nothing." She said, then she immediately started calling every five minutes! AHH!
I had to turn off (or turn low) most of his ringers so Jordan could nap, and play in peace. Though I checked the number each time it rang, even though more often than not it was Ann. I began to consider unplugging the phone line, though I couldn't do something like that in someone else's house. Especially when that someone trusted me, as much as Darien relied on me, right now. I blocked out the noise until around noon, while Jordan played with some toys. Darien didn't really have too much for him to play with, so I'd brought a few with me, that used to be mine, growing up. I was exhausted, frustrated and more than a little angry.
I know Ann's desperate to win Darien's heart, I can see that she wants him. I get it! I even understand that she sees me as an enemy, an opposition, an adversary. Though I can't understand or accept the way she insists on dealing with me. I wouldn't wish this treatment on anyone, yet that's all I get from the girl, why? Why does it have to be that way? Can't we all just get along, or at least act civil towards one another?
I may be 'in her way,' but I'm just as much of a human being as she is. I have feelings and a heart; I cry, bleed and hurt just as much as she does. I cannot understand people treating others this way at all, it was all so exhausting and pointless. It's not like I'm really anything to worry about, Darien is going to probably end up with some other girl. Some beautiful, perfect creature that can give him everything his heart desires; someone entirely different, that he hasn't even met yet. A person who isn't Ann or me, yet the war for his affections rages on. Neither of us are quitters, and he's WORTH it!
Just thinking of all of that made me feel disgusted in my own skin; I flopped down into one of the chairs at his table. To Ann, it was almost like a game, that she intended to win, more than anything else. I can see that she honestly believes that she can not only win him. She also presumes that she can bend him to her will, showing that she doesn't know him at all. I'm just beginning to get to know the guy myself, but I can tell her already, that could never happen.
Darien isn't a prize anyone can win, he isn't a friend anyone can buy or mind anyone could change. He always has (and I hope he always will be) that unswayable, mischievous, mysterious man; who never misses a thing. Especially the things you don't want him to see, or remember. That is who he truly is in this life, it's something I've befriended, and fell in love with before I even realized it. After realizing that love, and how precious it is, I can never look at him the way Ann does… Though I don't think I could look at anyone that way!
To me, his friendship, trust, and love were all things that I would treasure, whenever they were received. Though I didn't count on that day coming, even if my mother was certain it was going to be Darien that finished this fight, the right way. To stand beside him, even for a little while and experience the sensation of him knowing how much I cherished him, would be life affirming. Though my head ached as the impossibilities of that wish became more and more pronounced.
Trying to escape this achy sick feelings in my chest, stomach and head; I turned to the best medicine I know, I pulled out my sketch pad. It took no time at all, finalizing my picture of Mina and John, before flipping to a new blank page. After working on one page continuously for a while, I get such a thrill out of a blank page. It's so refreshing and clean, after staring at excessive details for so long.
As I began to think of what I should feature in my new piece, all of my recent dreams and recurring memories were far too frustrating to make me feel better. So I decided to go for something a little different, and a little more original, as opposed to the memories and story pieces I was so famous for. I happened to notice one of the pictures Darien has hanging in his living room. It's this huge and tranquil photograph of the moon, from space. It looked so big and yet somehow so peaceful to me. Though looking at the moon always relaxes me, always has and I know now that it probably always will. It's a part of me, of who I am, I could see my next sketch shaping itself in my head. The next thing I knew, it was all outlined; and the real work had begun.
Like the photograph I was admiring, I let this picture be from space. It started with the moon, dead center like the picture, though I decided to include the earth, which I had peeking out from behind its moon. In my pencil drawing the two orbs looked to be one huge, misshaped orb. I wanted to two to seem connected, as if they were close enough to touch one another. It got better and more defined once I did a quick light pencil indication of where the water, continents and craters all went. Once I'd finished all of that, Jordan began to scream, diaper change time. As soon as he was clean and back to his games, I went back to my tablet.
Though when I sat down to continue my work, my communicator went off. Luckily I was able to silence it before Jordan could react. The Sailor Scouts were in a heavy confrontation with another cardian. I answered to tell the truth, and apologize that I couldn't be there. I couldn't just leave Jordan alone like that; after I signed off with them however, I was on the very edge of my seat, in panic. Worried over all the things that could have gone wrong or right. I was a mess until I received the all clear from Amy, who was kind and assured me everyone was fine. She even promised to give me a play by play of the attack, before the meeting/practice session we were all attending today.
After feeling so much better about all of that, I received a call from Mrs. Winston (Jordan's mother). She sounded so sick on the phone, but she'd called asking me if I could possibly take Jordan to his weekly swim class. She said she wouldn't have asked at all, but this something the little guy looked forward to every Sunday. If he didn't go swimming and get all of his pint up energy out of his system, she warned that he would be absolutely impossible for the rest of the remaining day and evening. Not wanting Darien to suffer through a night like that, I agreed I could do it.
What also helped is when Mrs. Winston was brand new to our neighborhood, my mother had introduced her to this gym, where the classes were taking place. It's the place that keeps most of my neighborhood in shape, including my family. I had also attended these swim lessons with Jordan and his mother before. Mrs. Winston is a very quiet and shy person, and everyone feels better with a friend along. So not only did I know what to do, and where to go, but I had already swam in similar classes. This would be all too easy, and I got to go swimming, on the hottest day we've had this year, so far. YAY!
After I got a little more info from Jordan's mother, I let her go and called Darien. I didn't expect to reach him while he was working, though I knew I could leave him a message. So that is exactly what I did, I let him know what was going on. Asking him to please call me whenever he got a chance, or off of work. I let him know where I would be going and why. Then I called my mother, and asked her two things. After hearing about her day and the madness at home (Sammy and Dad still playing with those stupid nerf guns!), I asked her did she want to come with me. She said she couldn't because she was honestly convinced that if she left, there would be no house to return to. Then I asked her did I have to come home to get my swimming gear, or was it already clean in her locker at the gym. It turns out that as luck would have it, I could go straight to the gym, no problem. Everything was already there; even Jordan's clean swimwear was in Mrs. Winston's locker.
On our stroll to the gym, Darien called me back. I brought him up to speed and told him that I hoped he hadn't minded me and Jordan leaving the apartment. He assured, "No, I trust you. Though have you ever been to a baby swim class before, I haven't."
"Oh yes, and there's nothing to it, I've been to a few with my mom. It'll be fun, just didn't want you to go home and panic when we're not there." I explained.
"Yes, thank you, has anything else eventful happened this morning?" He asked with interest.
"Yes, when you go home you may need to turn your phone's ringers back on because I had to turn them down." I warned him, while he asked (without hostility) "Why did you have to do that?"
"Someone was calling you literally every fifteen minutes and hanging up with no message." I answered and he was quick to realize. "That must have been Ann."
"How'd ya guess?" I asked.
"Well, Andrew warned me that he thought she'd stolen my phone number from one of his billboards in the back of the arcade. She was really calling every fifteen minutes?"
"Well actually it was every fifteen before I talked to her, she was so rude. So last I timed, she was calling every five minutes." I warned him, and he groaned out of irritation.
"Why must she be so aggravating, does she honestly think acting like that is supposed to make me like her?" He asked me and I shrugged.
"Some girls do I suppose, I think she felt threatened knowing I was there." I said, clearly helping the wretch, even though she would only kindly help me off a cliff! I continued, "Face it Darien, she really wants you."
"Well I certainly don't want someone who acts like that, I can't stand the pushy types like her." He said, while I could hear his nose wrinkling up in voice. He's so cute sometimes.
"Darien is there a type of girl that you do like?" I asked him with a teasing tone, adding, "Because Andrew and I are really beginning to worry about you."
"Of course there's a type of girl I like, and I know it when I see it. There just happen to be more types of girls that I don't like. I'm picky! What about you, do you like certain types of guys? You asked me, so I'll ask you."
I wanted to say, 'No, because I only have eyes for you!' Though I did have my head on right enough to recognize that might be a little drastic. So instead I was honest and said, "No, I don't think it's quite right, saying I like 'a type.' I think almost everyone deserves a chance… almost and I don't like the idea of everyone being labeled, or the same. Everyone's so different, ya know?"
"You're a lot nicer than I give you credit for." He said with a smile, that I could hear in his tone. We were getting close to the gym and I knew I was going to have to do a lot of explaining to the poor soul behind the welcoming desk. So I told Darien that I would call him as soon as class let out and he said he'd 'see me around,' and to 'Have a nice swim.'
As he recognized where we were, Jordan began to cheer and coo loudly. Luckily the poor soul was a lady that knows my family very well. So well in fact, that I didn't have to say my name or Jordan's, before she was asking me all about my family and Mrs' Winston's recovery. No problem getting in whatsoever, I got everything I needed, without explaining myself into a hole that I couldn't crawl out of. Though as our talk went on I found out why everything went so smoothly. It had helped greatly that my mother had called and explained the situation, before I donned the door. So it wasn't a hassle at all getting the locker keys I needed to get in my family's locker as well as Mrs. Winston's.
I decided it would be best to go ahead and get myself dressed, then dress Jordan. My mother's friend from the desk was nice enough to follow me and watch Jordan the couple of seconds that it took me to change into my swimwear. Though I nearly squealed with joy when I recognized my mom had put my new swimsuit in there for safe keeping.
It was a two piece, that I'd wanted the moment I saw it. It was a pink top, with a burgundy bottom that was a teeny little skirt. The top was artsy looking with winding vines of deep burgundy and black roses that made the pink pop. Not too humble, not at all plain, while not being slutty is a hard thing to find for a girl, ya know? The skirt bottom had a pink rose on the hip that matched my top. It was too cute, I changed in light speed, racing back out to take Jordan, and get him ready.
Before I started with him, I stashed all of my regular clothes in my mom's locker and safety pinned the key to Jordan's diaper bag, so it would be in sight and I still wouldn't lose it. Then I pinned the bottoms of both my pigtails, to the buns on top of my head. So instead of the long streaming pigtails, I now donned two hanging loops. They would be out of my way, yet still in my trademark style. Once I was all set, my next task was readying Jordan for class. I had to wait for a changing table to open up, which is difficult when there are so many moms and babies around. Luckily there was more than one and most of them were familiar faces; friends of my mom's or dad's. So waiting wasn't too bad, and Jordan was a little prince. Especially once I had gotten him in his swimming diaper and suit.
I locked up his stroller in his mother's locker, and headed for the nearest door leading to the indoor pool area. I crossed through a few rooms, till I reached the right one, the moment the smell of the chlorine hit my nostrils… Jordan began to kick and swim his arms like a whine-up toy. I couldn't seem to hang the diaper bag and get that boy in the water fast enough. I couldn't get over it, he was so cute! The moment I got him in the water, he was like a bullet boat. He was so fast and so good I struggled at first to keep up with him, though I managed to get used to it pretty quick.
When I had attended with his mother in the past, he'd just been starting out. He was basically just being dipped in the water and floated around, getting use to the feel of the water. Now he he'd grown, he was more than used to the aqua, I was checking to see if he still had legs and not fins. Though given the reaction (or the lack thereof) the other ladies in the class were giving Jordan, this is probably how he always swims.
A few moments passed, Jordan and I were having fun with splashing games. Then I heard one of the heavy double doors fly open; I thought it must have been the instructor, coming in to teach the class. Though I didn't look to see for myself, I was too preoccupied with Jordan. All of the older ladies in the class all went silent, and I thought that was a little strange till Jordan zipped off towards the other end of the pool shouting something in baby talk. I followed him, only to realize that he was racing to the step entrance of the pool, because Darien was just stepping in.
I was stunned, because for one, I had not expected to see him here. I was also more than a little astonished at just how smoking hot he was. I'd always suspected as much, though it's very different to deduce something, and to see that something for yourself. All the other ladies' silence made perfect sense to me now, I knew him, he was my friend. He was even waving and calling 'Hi Serena,' at me and I couldn't talk or move. I couldn't seem to peel my eyes away from his toned muscles and bare chest. I swear steam came off of him when he got in the water.
He was wearing a typical pair of black (of course) swimming trunks lined with red and orangish-red colors. The dark colors of his trunks and hair showed off the fact that his skin was lightly sun-kissed. I don't think anyone could breathe in the whole room, except the babies, they didn't seem to notice.
I shook off my own shock, and put on a smile (it wasn't at all hard). Asking him, "What are you doing here?"
"Well you said that you'd done it before, and that it would be fun. So I wanted to see for myself." He reasoned and I heard a few of the ladies immediate revert their attention back to their babies. While others remembered to breathe once he'd spoken, and they knew he wasn't a figment of their imaginations.
Then Darien noticed Jordan swimming and said with fascination, "Whoa, look at him go!"
He kneeled down in the shallow water and Jordan rushed right into Darien's arms. While he smiled excitedly, "He's so fast!"
"Yes, it took me a few seconds to figure out how to keep up with him; he's like a motor boat." I said while Darien began to play with him too. Jordan was suddenly the star of our class. Between all the women mooning over our small wonder, and my gloriously gorgeous prince; they were the center of class attention.
After two hours of play in the water, Jordan's little eye lids began to droop, just in time for our class to end. As our teacher brought class to a close, small kids and families poured out of the changing rooms for free swim time. Darien plucked Jordan from the water and began to walk off with him, following the other ladies. Though the moment Jordan wasn't in the water anymore, he began to scream and shout, wanting to go back in. Darien and I were trying to shush him, but he was too upset, so we let him paddle around a bit more, before Darien came up with a great idea.
"Why don't you go ahead and get dressed, I'll let him swim a little more. Then I can change while you're dressing him." He suggested and I smiled, "Great idea!"
So I headed off towards the ladies room, and then to my family's locker. Though there seemed to be some commotion on the other end of the locker room. I heard a lot of gasps and whispers, from other women in the room. I grabbed my clothes, as well as the small bag my mother stored for transporting wet things home to wash. Then curiosity got the best of me, and I went to check out what was going on. Someone had trashed another person's locker with a bunch of symbols written in lipstick, all over the person's torn and cut up clothes and other belongings.
Some of the women were on their cell phones reporting this destruction of property to the front desk. While I snapped a picture of the damage and messages, sending it straight to Mercury, something about the symbols looked familiar. So I thought that maybe Amy could at least figure out what it says. Then I rushed to slip out of my wet suit and into my dry clothes, remembering to place my wet things in a little bag so I could get it home and washed. Then I rushed back to nab Jordan, Though when I came back out of those heavy doors, I did not expect what I found.
I found Darien still holding the baby, that I had anticipated. Though I didn't expect Darien to be wearing a back pack that looked like Ann… The girl was attached to his upper back and screeching at her brother, who bless him was trying to pull her off Darien, without hitting Jordan. Darien quickly called to me, smiling hopefully that I could somehow help him. While he was trying to break free of these lunatics, though I don't think he had foreseen that Alan would let go of Ann so quickly to pursue me. Darien, Ann and Jordan all took a short dip underwater for a moment.
I covered my mouth to keep my scream in, and Jordan was the first one I saw resurface after two missed beats of my heart. Alan did turn and take Jordan from Darien's outstretching hand. Luckily Jordan giggled happily, REALLY sleepily, no harm done. So I scoped him up, swaddling him with a towel and he gave me a big kiss that I returned. Alan wanted to chat, while I was more concerned about Darien and Ann who each seemed to be struggling underwater. Darien was next to resurface to my relief and I asked him, "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine," he choked, before reaching in and pulling Ann quick and easily out of the water. It was so quick, she fought for a moment in mid-air, before she realized she was free of the water. I asked her, "Ann are you alright?"
"Like you give a damn." She croaked back at me before she grabbed Darien's face and stole a kiss. He pulled back pretty quickly, though that didn't save my stomach from diving down to my toenails. He shouted, "Ann!"
"I was just saying thanks for saving me, Darien." She said while rubbing her scantily clad boobs all over his chest. Alan had now climbed out to stand beside me and asked, "How has you're weekend been so far?"
"Astonishing," I answered flatly, not able to dredge up my normal enthusiasm for life at the moment. "How about yours Alan?"
"Much better now, imagine us bumping into one another like this." He smiled while Darien let Ann fall back into the water for some reason behind us. I never could quite make out what was going on with them, Alan was too into talking right now.
"Who's this little guy," Alan asked me, looking at Jordan now. "Is this little guy your little brother?"
"Oh no, my little brother much bigger and annoying." I verified while Alan laughed. "This is Jordan, I babysit him sometimes. Darien's been looking out for him and I've been helping. It makes it easier having a familiar face around."
"Espeically one as friendly and as beautiful as yours." He complimented, openly hitting on me. While I smiled, not quite sure what else to do, then I said, "We'll I wouldn't go that far."
"I would, I'm so glad I bumped into you. Do you have plans for later on this evening?" He asked, and I sighed honestly, "Yes, between a study buddy meeting with my friends, and dinner with my family, my night's all full." I shrugged, and Alan's face fell slightly.
"Well that's a shame, maybe we can-" He began.
"ALAN! FOR crying out LOUD!" Ann finished.
"What?" Alan shouted. Jordan began to get fussy, so while the arguing commenced, I snuck by them to the dressing rooms. Before I was behind the safety of the double doors, I noticed Darien following my lead and sneaking towards the men's room too. He winked at me for some reason and we both managed to make it before the gruesome twosome even noticed. While I was changing Jordan back into his normal clothes, he yawned and fussed a little, though behaved for the most part.
Darien called my cell and arranged for us to meet out front, so that there was less of a chance of running into Ann or Alan again. I power walked that stroller to the front entrance without a sign of either sibling. I was about to call Darien and ask him where he was, when he suddenly appeared telling me to hurry. So we walked briskly for a long ways, before we seemed to believe we were 'safe.' Jordan snoozed through the whole thing in his stroller.
We laughed at our own stealth skills, and slowed to a normal pace. I was quiet for a few moments trying to catch my breath. He's fast with his long legs and while I'm fast too, it seems to take three of my short strides to match one of his. The weather was the warmest we'd seen this year, so all of the coolness and relaxing of swimming was dissipating quickly. I told Darien, "Man, all the relaxation and chilling I did in the pool is almost gone."
"Me too," he said, sounding just as annoyed as I did. Though he took me off guard by adding, "I miss the bathing suit already."
I smiled, peeking up at him, "Yeah, we would feel a lot cooler if we'd just run in them."
"That's true, though as hot as it is, I miss yours a little more than mine." He confessed with a smile that made me feel a little faint. "We've got to do this again, sometime."
"Sure," I nodded and smiled, knowing I had to be bright red. Before I could come up with some way of complimenting his swimwear too, and not sound dumb. My cell phone buzzed in my side pocket. I flipped it out and answered to be screamed at, "Hello?"
"SERENA! YOU'RE-LATE!" She bellowed so loudly I know Darien could probably hear her loud and clear too.
"Am I, sorry Raye, you wouldn't believe how nuts this morning has been." I apologized while Darien tried to pretend he wasn't listening… not doing a great job of it.
"Serena, I could honestly careless about why you're late! JUST get HERE! We can't start without you!" She ordered, while I forgot where I was and I shot back.
"Hey watch the ordering, who died and made you queen?" I asked and Darien tried to hide his chuckle at me, while Raye's screeches reached new highs.
"EITHER-YOU-GET-HERE-THE-NEXT-TEN-MINUTES-OR-THERE-WILL-BE-HELL-TO-PAY!"
"Okay Raye, I'll be there as soon as I can." I said, before Raye hung up on me and I put my phone away shaking my head.
"You can go if you like, I heard you tell Alan you have a study session with them today. Plus dinner with your parents tonight," he said showing that he'd been paying attention even over Ann's whining tone. An achievement that there should be a metal ceremony for, or at least a trophy of some kind.
"Well…" I drew out sheepishly, "I probably should go meet the girls, but my parents aren't expecting me at all. I made that up because I didn't want to hurt Alan too much."
"Really?" He said, before clearing his throat and continuing in a more debonair manner. "I mean, you don't have plans?"
"No, it's a date night for all my friends, and actually it's my mom and dad's date night too, this week. Though I think it's neat they still get out and have fun at least one day a week." I smiled saying, "If you'd like I can drop by and see how you're doing after I'm through with studying."
"Yeah, that would be great… if you don't mind."
"Not at all, so I'll see you two then?" I asked and Darien smirked as always, "see you then."
I waved to him and headed off to the temple arriving just in time to meet my deadline and keel over. I'd run the whole way, like a manic the moment Darien was out of sight. As I was laying on the concrete ground, wheezing catching my breath Amy brought me up to speed on what I'd missed as promised.
Before she started on her tales of the monster and battle from earlier today, she told me something creepy about the symbols I'd seen written in lipstick at the gym. She informed me, that there is no record of that dialect in our entire world. So she was entering the data into her mercury computer for safe keeping. Not giving up on finding out their meaning, she even planned to check ancient ruins from the Sliver Millennium and old world texts from that era. Our brainy Amy, you can always count on her!
The monster they'd faced this time, had been a combination of a bull and a nightmare(and I don't mean a dream, I mean the black horse from myths, with the mane, tail, and hoofs of fire!). It had charged down our streets, demolishing cars, trees and somehow stealing everyone's that met it's gaze. Though for this particular cardian, it wasn't enough for him to steal your energy. He wanted to kill you too, so all of my friends were extremely cautious.
The beast left only destruction and devastation in his wake, along with a fire trail. In the end, the monster was taken down by the representatives of Jupiter, who each used a new attack that combined into a huge lighting dragon. Let's face it, that bull was mean, but no match for a freakin dragon. Amy told me that Lita and Ken would show me their new combined attack; in our practice session today.
Which they did first thing, Lita and Ken did this intricate set of moves that resembled a very intense dance. It ended with them both lifted off of their feet incredibly high in the air, so high that we lost sight of them. Then suddenly the spot I'd last seen them in, before they disappeared into the clouds, began to glow. Electricity surrounded us on the ground, shaking everything and everyone around us. Then this huge head came out of the clouds, as soon as I recognized it was a face; it was flying incredibly fast straight for us. Not only did it crash into the target Luna had laid out for this example. The whole way toward it's marked destination; the Dragon that was made of lightening was breathing electricity though it's mouth! It was one of the coolest things I've ever seen!
Once everyone was warmed and practice kicked into high gear, Everyone was paired off, I'm really beginning to think those cats hate me. I know it's important that the partners bond. But the pairs thing, all the time, everywhere I go. Ahh!
Lita and Ken, Plus Raye and Chad were told to practice their mutual attacks. Team Mars nearly burned the whole place down practicing their aim. While Team Jupiter seemed to be the first perfect their methods in their first go. Amy and Greg, plus Mina and John were given the task of trying to discover what their mutual powers were. Which only seem to result in a lot of arguing and disagreeing between Team Venus. While Team Mercury got more into conducting experiments on the data and other findings they'd collected on our enemies.
I know Luna and Artemis gave me a goal for the day too, an important one, that should have made my time fly. Though I got so transfixed on the very hard task of keeping both reps of Venus from killing one another; I cannot remember what that goal was! Even now, after practice ended, I still have no recollection of what I was supposed to be doing!
So instead, I spent the whole practice, working on keeping the peace between everyone. When we weren't working on their little issues with one another, or keeping Mina and John a certain distance from one another (so neither could strangle the other). All of the Scouts and Knights felt compelled to give me advice. Things I should say and try trying to re-spark Darien's affections. Most of them I nodded and said I appreciated, though some of their ideas just made me laugh.
Especially when I could so easily envision Darien's reaction to them. It was just too hysterical. So cheered up and feeling pretty good after a nice practice. I headed back to Darien's apartment, with a smile on my face. So, of course something bad is going to happen, I was attacked by the female twin and their newest cardian. Just my luck right? The most embarrassing part, and scary part is that she was so incredibly fast this time, I didn't even get a chance to transform or anything. I just remember their faces and going down on the street, I remember the scraping of the asphalt on my back. The jarring thud of my whole body hitting the ground hard enough to hear the street cracking underneath the wait of me and my heavyweight captor. Everything immediately went black after that.
I have no idea how long I was out, all I remember is darkness, until I couldn't breathe! I realized I'd been put in water, and I quickly remerged chocking and heaving water all over the ground I was too weak to pull myself completely up on… Once the worst of my coughs and hacking was over and I'd calmed down, I could see what happened. I had been left in boat that had been blasted to sink, in the middle of the river!
I was so tired, cold and wet that I just wanted to go home, so I tried to call Darien and explain what happened. Though my cell phone had gotten wet and was sparking a little. So I planned to call him once I reached home. Though as I began to walk and realize where I was, I knew I was too tired, and too weak to make it home. The person I was closest to at the moment was Darien. I remember feeling utter terror, afraid I wasn't going to make it, and end up sleeping somewhere in the park. All alone, and defenseless, I was too tired fight anything that tried to bother me. Darien was my only hope, so gathered all the strength and determination I sustained in my entire body. Began to walk the rest of the short distance left to reach his home.
The moment he opened the door, he looked concerned, and I can only imagine all he saw. "Serena, what happened?" He asked me, and I told him the truth.
"You know those monsters they keep describing on the news?" I began to explain, but my strength was waning. I began to collapse, he caught me and I remember calling to him, that he didn't want to pick me up, I was wet.
"How are you wet?" He asked, picking me up anyway and carrying me. I was hanging on by a thread. Darien checked my temperature by feeling my forehead with his cheek.
"You're cold as ice and soaked to the bone," He complained, before adding, "How do things like this always happen to you?"
"I don't know," I declared, so tired and exhausted I began to cry uncontrollably. Darien quickly shut the door, and rushed me to his bathroom. He placed me on the counter and wrapped me in a huge towel.
He told me to, "Wait right there," as if moving was an option. Then he disappeared, returning with my satchel, I must have dropped it along the way. Though of course he had to dump it out over the tub, it was so full of water too. All it should have had in was my sketchbook and workout clothes. I asked him still crying, "Was my sketchbook in there?"
"No," he assured me quickly, explaining, "You left that out on my table in the other room."
"Oh thank heavens!" I cried in relief, but Darien looked terrified for a moment. Before he stated, "Well there's nothing dry in there for you, but I think I can throw together something dry for you. Though I don't know how well it'll fit you."
"I'm so sorry Darien, don't worry about it." I told him and he came closer, I suppose I was a little hard to understand, through all of my tears. "I was walking here when they got me, when I woke up I was floating in the water in a boat that they'd broken to sink. They wanted me to drown, and I was too tired to walk home-"
"Of course you were," he soothed, "you're a long ways from your house, to be feeling like this. Your cold, and wet, you must have nearly drowned, because you're face is kind of blue."
I was still so scared and shaken by the whole thing, I just latched onto Darien and hugged him close. He pulled me in his lap and shushed me asking me to 'don't cry.' It was, and I quote 'breaking his heart to see my cry like that. When I finally calmed down, Darien said taking charge, "First we have got to get you dried off and out these wet clothes. There's a good chance you could get sick, we should probably take you to the hospital-"
"No," I insisted, "I don't wanna go to the hospital, I just wanna go home."
"I know, but we've got to warm you up before you're even more hypothermic. I'm not a doctor yet, I only have a little know how. I don't want anything to happen to you."
I made him promise no hospital, because I did not want to put my family though that again. If this kept up, they would start to get suspicious of all my injuries and they could find out my secret second life. I didn't want them to worry about me like that. Darien talked to me some more, but as he was speaking; I felt myself slipping away, into unconsciousness. So there's no guarantees on any of the things I've written down, that I think he said! I could have dreamed it, for all I know. He rushed into the other room again this time returning with some of his own clothes. He asked me, "Do you think you can slip into these before you fall asleep?"
"I shouldn't be here, I should be home." I said, and Darien said with confidence, "You would never make it like this, it looks like you're staying here tonight, and you were lucky to make it here. You made me promise no hospital, so you'll have to settle for a pre-med student."
"But I don't want to impose on you," I cried and he hugged me tight saying, "You're not imposing, I'm so glad you're alright. Please change and I'll try to see if I can let your family know where you are."
"Call Raye and ask her to lie for me," I told him and he was about to object, but I insisted again. "My mom can't know this happened again, she's been super watchful since the last time this happened to me, and we ended up in a hospital. Please Darien, call Raye." I asked and he wiped at my tears and finally said, "Alright…"
I sighed in relief, and he told me, "Just get changed, I'll worry about it. If you feel up to it try to stand under some warm water for a little bit, in the shower, okay? It'll warm you up, before you fall asleep again. Use whatever you need, alright?"
Then he disappeared and I slipped out of the wet clothes. As he suggested, I stepped into his shower and just stood under the hot spray for a moment. It felt nice, but I was so dizzy and faint I had to get out quick. I hopped into the dry clothes he'd lain out, it was like wearing a tent, they were of course huge on me, but warm, dry, and still carried a faint smell of his skin. So I had no complaints, it was that moment Jordan woke up and began to cry softly, that I began to try and rush to help him. I moved too fast I guess, and I felt the world tilt oddly. I barely made it out of the bathroom, before my whole world went black. That is all I remember of this day.
Overall Progress of the Day: Well other than passing out, and the impositions of Ann and Alan… not too bad. Team Jupiter's updated attacks are mind blowing, the others are as well. While Mina and John, against their best efforts, are still alive! That in itself is an accomplishment.
Goals For Tomorrow: Make all of this up to Darien somehow, and try to explain everything to the Scouts.
Wish Me Luck!
~Serena!
Alan's Hidden Agenda
Today could have been great, could been the best day I've ever lived. Though it turned out to be a very lackluster period. Do you know way? One word… Ann! She's out of her mind, she's losing control!
It partially my fault too, I acknowledge, I should have known something was amiss from the start! She woke up long before me this morning; I'm usually the early riser, that is forced to rip her from the bed with the 'jaws of life!' I should have known when she suddenly needs a cell phone, today. Though no, I took her to the store, let her pick the phone of her choice, it seems to always be her choice no matter what we do! I even brain washed the cashier into giving it to her for free. Ann was thrilled! Why didn't I see that evil was on the rise too?
When she continued to call and call with her new phone, I thought it was because she was going through some process to start it up. Then as she continued to use it, after that, I continued to be encouraged. Thinking she must have finally made some friends. She seemed so happy and pleased with the gift, how could I not. As it turns out she was bothering the living heck out of that Darien guy. Calling and calling him while he wasn't home or unplugged his receivers. Either why, no one was answering, I don't think she ever got an answer.
So, in a vain attempt to cheer her up, I suggested the two of us try to go swimming. We'd both talked of wanting to try that the first time we saw humans attempting it. It looked so fun and refreshing. After at least three hours of heartache, I got Ann to the gym, she did NOT want to go. Though I finally got her to come with me, and we made it past the front desk with ease. We drained a few people, stole their locker keys and their swimming clothes. It turns out humans have special attire just for swimming. Clothes that conceal very little, and make the experience even more enjoyable. As it turns out, Ann's stolen water garments were very skimpy, while mine were very average. I thought Ann was the hottest girl in the building. So I was a little wary about letting others see her dressed so little (Only I have ever seen that much of her, prior).
What made everything so significantly worse, was that stupid Darien guy! When we entered the room where the actual pool was installed, I wanted to tell Ann how hot she looked, but instead she went running and became a tie, hanging from Darien's neck. He'd already been in the water, attending to a baby, that was probably his, for all we know.
I got in the water, and asked Ann to act a little more civilized. Only to be splashed, as she shaped herself to his back, mimicking a bizarre book bag. Just when I thought that this was the way the rest of my day was meant to go. A vision in pink donned the boarder of the room. It was Serena, she was dressed normal, but I could tell by her pinned pigtails and by the way her clothes seemed to stick to her in all the right places, she'd been wet recently too. So that means that I had missed seeing her in a bathing suit. Though the fact that I could, at some point, see such a sight set my imagination off.
So I let go of Ann, and the idiot that she clung to fell, with her and his precious baby. When the baby reappeared, Serena frantically reached for him, so I retrieved the munchkin for her. She catered to it, kissed it, and hugged it; while the child enjoyed every moment. This shows babies are far from stupid!
After Ann and Darien resurfaced, I tried to talk to the angel. Though once again I was denied that pleasure, curtsy of Ann, darn her. I was so fired up arguing with Ann, that both of us missed Serena and Darien's departure. This just goes to show how silly the both of us must have seemed. After that, Ann stalked that Darien guy the rest of her time at the gym, while I swam and enjoyed myself knowing I would try to talk to Serena again tomorrow at school.
I spent hours in the water; it was rejuvenating in a way, though nowhere near the renewing powers of the Doom Tree. I don't know why, other than how the weightlessness of floating anywhere you needed to go. When I got out of the water, I felt so heavy and all of my skin was wrinkling and puckering unattractively. SO I don't think I'll go swimming for quiet so long again though the experience was worth it.
Hours passed before I saw my Ann again, when I was walking home. She had changed over into her true form and was already running a new cardian down the streets of Tokyo. I asked her, "How and why did she begin without me."
She replied, "She'd been bored and needed another boost." So she'd thought, "Why not?"
Though what she didn't realize was that she had only half awakened the creature. So I awakened it to it's full potential, with my flute and we prospered into the night… Until those Sailor Brats and their pimps crashed our party. Just when I thought they couldn't be any more annoying! Mark my words little data keeper, we will rid this world of those Scouts and Knights. Even if it's the last thing we ever do! When our creature was destroyed along with all of that energy it'd stolen, we teleported away, just before Ann broke down. I honestly don't know how much longer this can go on, though I can't get myself to leave either. I really don't know what's going to happen, or what needs to happen anymore. I just hope some miracle shows itself soon, so that we're able to stay here, on earth.
I know we've only been here, for a little while, but it's such a beautiful and interesting place. We've been all over and never found it's equal, I really wish we could live here, and just be happy. Is that really so much to wish for?
Ann's Account
Via her hidden agenda
Alan is such a jerk! I never get anything I want! It's all his fault that I missed my chance with Darien today! Alllllllllllllll his fault!
Wait a minute, it isn't exactly all of his fault, let's give credit where it's due. The bulk margin of liability, belongs to Serena! YES! That's who's truly to blame! Why Darien would waste his time with such a zero, I'll never know!
She the ugliest, dumbest, most pathetic dog in this entire world! Not to mention, she's a total skank! She doesn't just pursue one guy at time, she has to chase poor Darien, AND Alan too! Though I believe if a third hottie presented himself, she would hunt him too! The girl has no prospects, no brains and she's always in my way. It just drives her crazy that I'm so much better looking and smarter than she is.
However today, I got my revenge, I awakened a cardian, that drained all of her energy. It took a little longer than normal, for this to be accomplished, because as it turns out, only Alan can abundantly rouse one. Though regardless of that short coming, I drained Serena completely, before setting her limp body in a sinking row-boat. So I got even with that airhead, and still got even with Alan too. All I had to do was tell Alan that I had sucked his precious crush dry moments earlier. That's all it took for him to go rushing to that lake and looking for her. The half sunken dingy was empty when we relocated, and Alan awakened a fish cardian to help him search the depths.
I don't know why he's freaking, I know it can't be that easy to kill the cockroach. Though he lectured me top to bottom on the importance of life regardless. While I secretly hope that Serena did drown and all of her meddling has come to an end. So I can finally get the one thing I want… Darien's undivided attention.
-Ann
Instant Messaging
Rita & Andrew
(With a surprise Guest)
IM Andrew: Hey Beautiful! (smiley with hearts for eyes)
IM Rita: Hey Handsome, sorry again that I couldn't video chat tonight! I still have no clue why my webcam has conked out! (frowning smiley, with huge sad eyes, brimming with tears)
IM Andrew: Hee hee, It's perfectly alright, just as long as I can still talk to you! How are you, is it sunny there yet?"
IM Rita: Not quite, though the light of the sun if gleaming just behind the horizon. It's really a sight to see, I wish you were here.
IM Andrew: Me too! At least this way, it's sort of like I'm there.
IM Rita: Without the view.
IM Andrew: Describe it to me or take a picture, then I won't lack anything.
IM Rita: I think a photo would be better, I could never find the right words to describe this glow. It's a warmth and heat you feel from the sight of it.
IM Rita: click here to view image sent from (IM Rita)
IM Andrew: Wow, that's amazing! Now imagine us, sitting on your hammock, looking at this together. My arms would be around you, and every few moments I would plant a little kiss on your hands,
You face,
or lips.
IM Rita: And when you weren't kissing me, I'd be kissing you. Though is that all we'd do? (winking smiley)
IM Andrew: What else didja have in mind? (Flirty smiley)
A Mutal Friend (IM Darien) is requesting to join your, in process, chat! Accept or Deny?
IM Rita: Darien wants to talk? He's never done that before! Maybe we should see how he's doing! It could be important!
IM Andrew: It had better be, or I'll kill him! (Mischievous smiley… or murderous, I can't decide)
IM Darien: Thanks guys, I didn't want to interrupt, but I'm FREAKING OUT! You hear me, FREAKING OUT!
IM Rita: What's the problem Darien?
IM Andrew: And this had better be good Shields.
IM Rita: Andrew! (Warning smiley)
IM Andrew: I'm kidding, he knows that! (Innocent smiley)
IM Darien: I'm freaking out between this baby and this girl!
IM Andrew: I told you to let that Ann girl know where you stood. I told you that it would be trouble, did I not!
IM Darien: Not Ann stupid, Serena! Though Ann has been ringing the living hell out of my phones today! No, 'this' has nothing remotely to do with Ann ('this' being the thing that has me losing my grip on my sanity). 'This' is Serena were talking about.
IM Rita: Well then I'm definitely listening!
IM Andrew: That goes for me too! What did she do? What did you do? Important questions!
IM Darien: She's here… right now…
IM Andrew: What do you MEAN she's here right now? At two in the Morning!
IM Rita: Andrew, calm down, let Darien explain… Explain to us please Darien, I'm sure nothing scandalous has taken place… Right?
IM Darien: NO! Of course not! You guys, this is me we're talking about!
IM Rita: I know that, I just also know that you love her, and you're a warm blooded male just as much as Andrew. (A balding, wise, smiley with glasses; a bubble-pipe and a soul-patch.)
IM Andrew: Now that we know nothing disgracefully has occurred, and that awkwardness is behind us! Moving on! What has you so panicked that you feel the need to contact me and Rita for council; at this hour!
IM Darien: Jordan has been especially good and slept most of the night, only crying softly for a change or his bottle. I am so glad he's not wailing as usual, it's scary how smart this kid is sometimes. Serena was attacked by another one of those energy monsters. She couldn't even walk by the time she got to my door, I t happened in the park. I was the person she was closest to, so she came here and she was soaking wet. The monster had tried to drown her after he'd taken all of her strength.
IM Andrew: Good God, she's lucky to be alive!
IM Rita: The poor thing, is she alright?
IM Darien: I hope so, she's sleeping in my room, I gave her some dry clothes and I did get her to warm herself under my showerhead (Before your sick, twisted little minds start jumping to more conclusions, I left the room when she was doing all of that. Though I hovered nearby, afraid she would pass out). I wanted to call her parents, wanted to take her to the hospital. Though she wouldn't let me, she said that this is the fifth time this has ever happened to her. That all she needs is sleep, though with no strength and no color in her skin at all, she sleeps like she's dead. I keep checking to make sure she's breathing and she's warm. She wearing four blankets right now and she's still ice cold to the touch… I'm so worried.
IM Rita: If she's that experienced, I guess she knows what she's doing. You did tell her parents something, didn't you?
IM Darien: … sort of. I wanted to call and let them know exactly where their daughter was, but Serena wouldn't hear of it. She made me call Raye and I had to arrange for her to lie for us. Serena's father would have supposedly gone postal if he'd heard that Serena was here.
IM Andrew: Oh yes, I've met the guy and he's a little bit of a nut. Though in this case, could you really blame him, he doesn't know you Dare, and you're all alone with her in your apartment.
IM Darien: Grr… Everyone thinks we're alone, we're not! There's a small baby in the mix, do you really think something that hot and heavy is going to happen with a baby screaming and crying every thirty minutes, to an hour!
IM Andrew: Hey man, I know that couldn't happen with you two, because I know both of you. Though some would call that plenty of time, you gotta watch what you say, is all I'm saying.
IM Rita: Darien, while you two were talking I looked up her condition in one of my medical books from back home. According to this, she's behaving normally given her condition. You've essentially done everything right, all you need to do now, is keep her warm and let her sleep.
IM Darien: I hope you're right, I'm so freaked something's going to happen to her, I honestly don't think I could bare it. You guys can't see her, she's so small and weak right now. There's a lot of moonlight shining down in my windows. It's giving her skin this this settle glow, the sheen of her spun golden hair, and her parted lips… even though I know she' doesn't feel well, she's utterly breathtaking.
IM Rita: Listen to that Andrew, I think someone's really falling for miss Serena.
IM Andrew: Are you kidding, this dude hit rock bottom ages ago.
IM Darien: You guys aren't helping me, you know, I'm not the right guy for her. She deserves so much better than anything I could ever give her. She also sounds like she needs protecting desperately; from the kooks out there out who steal our body's natural energy.
IM Andrew: If you were there you would have just been drained too, and the both of you would be in trouble now.
IM Darien: I know, I just feel SOOOOOOO helpless. I wish there was some way I could take away her pain, her weakness and doubt in herself. I wish she knew how much all of us love her, and I wish it was me laying there somehow, instead of her. She doesn't deserve this, she doesn't need this, she needs some to take care of her, and love her. She deserves love, why hasn't the right one found her? Why can't the right guy find her.
IM Rita: Because I honestly believe that man is currently in denial, and not giving himself nearly enough credit. Darien look at what you said, print it out and read it to yourself.
You.
Are.
In.
Love.
With.
That.
Blessed.
Girl!
We're not teasing you, making fun, or trying to scare you. We're your friends and we love you, we're telling you this because we want you to be happy to, and I think you may even be able to find some happiness with this girl.
IM Andrew: She's right man, I've never heard you so hung up, strung out, and go so to pieces over another person before. Just let her love you, and let yourself love her back already, all the other stuff will fall into place too, at its own pace. Though I think the two of you are missing out, not being together. You get me?
IM Darien: Yeah I hear you both, and you're putting way too much faith in me.
IM Andrew: We have to, who else would?
IM Rita: We do it because we see what you can't see in yourself.
IM Andrew: It has been wonderful talking to you Dare, as always. Though Rita and I are only allowed these little snippets of time here and there… would you mind terribly… bringing me the rest of the way up to speed tomorrow?
IM Darien: Oh right, sorry, I won't be in school tomorrow, I know that. I've been switching between sleeping on my couch and in the chair next to Serena. As a matter a fact, I'm sitting with her right now, typing quietly on my laptop. Though I promise that I will talk to you at some point tomorrow. Thank you both (you really have no idea how much I appreciate you both at this moment) for putting up with me, and for your advice even though it was a little too romantic for my taste. Hope you enjoy you're little bit of time and have a good night.
IM Rita: Bye Darien! (smiley that blows kisses) Please consider what we've said, and print this conversation, even if you only look at the things you said.
IM Andrew: Take care buddy, and you better not forget to call me, or I'll be battling Ann for your phone line all day tomorrow.
IM Darien has signed off.
IM Rita: Now where were we?
IM Andrew: I thought he'd never leave!
Well, that's it for this chapter, now it's your turn. Did you like it, love it, hate it, tolerate it… let me know! I love hearing from all of you and most of these chapters are fueled by three key things. Pure undiluted determination, Mountain Dew (Diet, I'm watch my figure… its slowly appearing beneath the rolls. Slowly but surely I'm getting there I've lost fifteen pounds so far! YAY!) And you guys! Thanks again all of you who reviewed last week. Thanks everyone who favorite me as an author or this story! Thanks all of you who have still been voting on my poll! All of you who just started reading, and like it! Even those of you reading and not sure where it's going, but you kind of like it, thank you! A BIG special thanks to you all of you reading this, just for making it this far! You're awesome, you all make this so fun and I'll try my best to post next Monday too! Bless you all and Much Love!
-SailorLeia