A/N: So here it goes. I've always loved the Victorian era. But a Jane Austen style of romance (and yes I know Jane Austen did not classify as the victorian era) where it was prim and proper with a cliché romance just did not fit the style of Invader Zim. Not that any of my stories do. I'm not dissing on those types of book, Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre is in the top 5 of my favorite books. But the wild west seems to fit the IZ characters so perfectly. Honestly I haven't seen that many westerns and I don't want it to have a million ways to die in the west feel. It's my favorite comedy but not the direction I want to go. But that's not going to stop me from trying. I will admit it will have a bit of a steampunk air to it. It suits Zim I think. I just hope I got the western manner of speaking down. I myself am southern so that should help. Though Zim, I will try to make him speak like himself so he stands out more than usual.

So I had to make a new account on DeviantArt because I locked myself out of the old account somehow -_-. But here's some costume ideas I had for the characters IZ inspiration by queenofdoomydoom913 on DeviantArt

So I hope you enjoy as well as Through the ages I'm also in working on. I've written a little of that horrible 40's fic's next chapter but it's not coming together as well as I would like but I am working on it. I've got a middle that I might preview, I just need a beginning and an end to the chapter and an idea on how to end the story.

But for now, here's this. By the way, this will later be edited and the rating may change to mature later on.

Dib's POV.

The sun was near high noon. Already the heat was nearly unbearable, even in the fall. Just another downside of living on the new frontier. But I love this town and the west in general. Sure our little settlement, as most are in the west, was a small mining town. But I'd put my life at stake just to protect it for another day. That's why, I, Dibert Membrana, had dedicated my life to be a sheriff. It ain't an easy job, especially here. Yes, being sheriff is tough, but the people, as much as they hate me can't deny I'm perfect for the job. They know I'm the nosiest and most dedicated person in the west. And no one has the sand to do what I do. It's almost every day there's conflict. Showdowns in the town square, natives attacking, bandits raiding and of course, the most dangerous threat of all. Zim. But I'm not in the mood to think about him at the moment.

Today's a Sunday. There's just something about them that always has me in the down. Perhaps it was the fact my Ma died on a Sunday when I was little, on the trail that we were traveling to get to this town. Maybe it's the fact it's a church day and me and my sister just never fits in with that crowd. Or it could be that the town has an empty feel to it, everyone either at church or went home to eat some grub. And when things are quiet, that's when I'm thinking about things that depresses me with no distraction to pull me away from them.

Right now the town's mostly empty and even though the locals were a bunch of jackasses, I still feel lonely without them. I could go to Bloaty's saloon where I usually spent my free time but that just ain't fitting to do on a sabbath, even if I'm not a religious man. I think the reason for my current feelings was that me and my Pa had another argument this morning. While I know the man was raised catholic and doesn't even believe in God anymore, he stills go to church every Sunday to mingle with the people. Pa's a very respected and powerful man. One who not only owned every mine 'round here but also the reason this little place had been built. He provided them with jobs and had considered running for mayor at the town's request. I hope he doesn't. Mayor Darkbooty and I have an understanding. He doesn't trust anyone else to do the job so he overlooks some minor skirmishes because he knows the danger we're facing daily. There's not doubt Pa would take my badge if he were to replace him. He never liked the idea of my dedication to the law. I'm not sure why, but it's been the seed of many disagreements between us. I'm not sure if it's because he wanted me to takeover for him one day or if he's worried about my safety. Even so, a man needs to be respected when he finds his place in the world. I'd never ask Pa to sell the deeds to his mines, why can't he show me the same courtesy?

I stood from my desk and went to the other side of the room where the cells are. We clean them every Sunday. The town drunks do a number on them during the week. I had been looking forward to the picnic basket with the lunch my sister packed me but after cleaning the jail I don't think I could look at food. I had just finished and sat back down when Gaz stomped in the room. No doubt she was angry again. Surprise, surprise.

Ever since we were little, she's been there helping me out on my adventures. Sure, she always gripes and moans but she's still here. She's kind of my deputy. And a damn good one. It's not an official thing, the town would never accept a woman doing such a job but I know I couldn't do the job without her. Someone who definitely doesn't like it is my father. He's got very different hopes for her. I may see her as a competent assistant and deputy, my father sees her as a fragile flower who need a husband to look after her. What a laugh. It's not her that needs a husband but he who needs an heir to leave the family business to. Gaz loves Pa very much but she's always looked to me for guidance and I don't consider gender to make her any less than a man. She might have not been the baby brother I was hoping for but that didn't stop me from teaching her how to fish or roughhousing with her. She's always been more rambunctious than any boy and with a shorter temper than them too. So I'm not surprised to see her spittin' mad now.

"What's wrong?" I asked.

She growled, "Nothing, just ran into one of the local village idiots."

That was vague. Every local was the village idiot to her.

"Hey, Dib?" She calls me by the nick-name that we use only around of family, "I thought Zim didn't like water."

"He doesn't. I'm not sure why he hates rain but I know for a fact that he's disgusted by the well water we use." I said, trying to resist boring her with my knowledge of all things Zim.

"So why the hell did I just see him at the well in the center of town?" She asked crossing her arms.

Zim? At the well? He's always been very vocal about well-water and the diseases he thinks it carries. He's never stepped within ten feet of one before. An uneasy filling filled my empty stomach like Pa's chili. No wonder Gaz seemed agitated. Usually she tends to ignore Zim except when he's doing something particularly reckless. I shot up and got my guns, checking to see if they had bullets before shoving them in the holsters on my hips. Gaz likewise fetched the shotgun we kept on the wall and had it slung over her shoulder. There's not time to dally. When in comes to Zim you gotta expect the worse and more than often it was the worst.

I kept Gaz behind me. I already knew where the well was. Then we reached it and saw him. He was kneeling next to the well. The anger I'm feeling was different from the other times I dealt with him. Honestly, I usually found some sort of respect for him. He was a scoundrel yes, but he was the closest thing to a friend besides my sister I've ever known. But this time? The moment I saw him, pouring some sort of liquid from a jar into the towns drinking water, I reacted with an animal's instincts when a perceived threat to my herd is near.

He's always been a threat. Zim is a monster, the likes that we humans have never imagined. From the first time that I saw that falling fire in the sky that one night to when I saw the stranger from out of town at the saloon later that week, I knew he was dangerous. Oh how I want to capture him and send him the gallows or to P.T. Barnum's freakshow. Out of all the criminals I face, he's the one that keeps me on my toes. I guess I've had mercy on him too many times. At one time I did respect him. We were not quiet friends but not quite enemies. That's over now. As it is, I'm gonna have to close the well from the townsfolk. Either they get poisoned or I have to face their ignorant rage for closing it.

Gun in hand, I aimed it and ordered, "Drop it, Zim! Or I'll blow you're brains out like the rabid dog you are."

Zim turned around, surprised. He narrowed his eyes and glared at me and my sister who stood to the side with her rifle pointed at him too, "Dib-stink. I'm surprised to see you aren't at your post or that filthy saloon, drunk."

He slowly stood and smirked, "But I'm glad your here. Have you ever heard of the brain-worms? I doubt it. But you're going to see what it does when your precious humans become empty shells as they're brains and skulls are devoured."

"I don't think so, Hombre." I shot first.

Zim, always fast on his feet, managed to jump behind the well. I missed, hitting one of those mechanical legs of his, it flying off somewhere.

He shot back, the heat from the unearthly weapon burning where it grazed my arm. I took Zim's lead and hid behind a wagon for cover. This continued for a while, each of us only nicking the other when we peeked over to shoot. Eventually we both came up at the same time, our guns aimed right at each other's hearts.

"Just give up, Zim." I shouted to him.

"An invader doesn't quit!"

"I'll shoot."

"Zim will shoot you first."

At this rate, we'll be here all night so I came up with and idea, "How's this. A duel. We both take ten steps back and on the count of three, we shoot. Whoever gets their guns out first survives."

"Zim finds this idea agreeable." The space man smiled evilly.

We stood slowly, eyeing each other for the slightest hint of movement. Both our guns had been put in their holsters. Our eyes never left each other as we started to take or steps. We walked backward as to not turn our backs on the other. You can't trust your enemy to be honorable or else they would not be so bothersome.

"We do this on the count of three..." I shouted.

"One..."

It was before I could say two when I noticed his gun had already been drawn and Zim's trigger finger twitch in preparation, He was not going to wait for three.

Faster than I ever had done it before, I whipped my gun out from my side, immediately aiming it at his head. I snarled at him, "Last straw, you son of a bitch!"

It was in that millisecond that we were both about to put energy into squeezing the trigger did we hear something to stop us dead in our tracks. For a second I was confused, the rage in me still fogging up my head. The streets were empty. But the I remembered Gaz's raspy voice. Suddenly completely aware of my surroundings, did I realize that Gaz had came with me. I dropped my gun and saw Zim drop his, looking almost as worried as I was.

All this with three words, "What's this thingamajig?"

By the time we had turned around to face her she had yelped, now holding her hand in pain.

I grabbed her hands when I reached her, examining the now red and blistering hand she had been holding the strange device with. Zim was on his knees cradling said device that had been dropped to the floor next to her shot gun. It looked like it had been attached to that leg I shot off earlier. I wondered why she didn't use the gun earlier and saved us from all this commotion when she had the chance? She had a perfect shot at him.

Just as I was about to speak, Zim growled at her, anger and concern clearly written on his stupid green face, "What did you do, you filthy human?!"

"Me? I did nothing! It was that thing of yours that malfunctioned. Clearly it's just as broken and useless as it's owner." Gaz hissed back at him as I took out my handkerchief and started to wrap her hand.

Something she said must've pushed a button because his face went to a darker green as he flushed with anger, "Thing? A thing?! You're stupid little human mind would break if you knew what this thing could do. Far more useful than any human. You ignorant, barbaric she-beast. The only use you will ever have is feeding the maggots that will infest your corpse and believe me, when that day comes I will dig you up and watch with joy!"

While Gaz was surprisingly taking his outburst well, looking more amused than anything, my rage was building back up. Nobody talks to my baby sister like that. I grabbed his collar and lifted him up to my face as I hissed at him. Spittle was hitting his face but I didn't care, "The only corpse being watched is gonna be you. I will get you one day. I will squeeze what's left of your body in a jar and send it to the nearest freakshow."

Gaz sneered even though I could tell her eyes were filled with glee and added, "Imagine that, Zim. Every man, woman and child paying a cent to just look at you and laugh. The popcorn would cost more than you're worth."

"Enough!" Zim practically roared. He started to step back, holding his sparking device up, "When this is fixed, you will rue the day you ever crossed Zim."

We watched him turn and race to his horse. He mounted Mini-Moose and rode away at full speed. Why the thing was named Mini-Moose I will never understood as it was neither mini or a moose. I turned back to Gaz who was rubbing her wrist.

I feel a little guilty like I didn't do enough to protect her. Not that she really needs it but I'll always feel responsible for her. The same way I feel responsible for the people in this little town. Remembering the well, I groaned. There's not much I can do about it today. I'll seal it for the moment and put up signs warning people to go and get their water from the well on our property until we get this one cleaned out and filled again. Mayor Darkbooty won't be happy about this. Hell, no one will be. The townies are going to be pissed with me. Like always, even when I win, I lose. Zim knows how to leave me holding the bag.

This next week is going to be hell, so as I got to work I decided tonight I will have a drink, Sunday or not.

Zim's POV

The sun was staring to set, casting the victorian house in a silhouette. It was truly the envy of the town, built in the latest trend of architecture matched only by the Membrana's hacienda homestead. It was a formidable building, an unsuspecting fortress hidden within a quaint green shell. Zim is quiet proud of his base even though the technology was terribly outdated when he was sent to Earth. Years of modifications had improved it immensely. This is Zim's home. The same home I'm currently pounding and kicking at as desperation kicked in.

The broken control device is now not Zim's most facing problem. I'm hungry, injured, insulted and it's getting dark. It gets cold quickly in the desert. Not to mention the coyotes come out to hunt at night. If I can not get in, Zim will be forced to face the elements. Again. An experience I never wanted to experience more than once.

If my device had not been shot, Zim would've been inside right now. It's function is to control the base where ever I am. I can bring my ship to me in the middle of nowhere or contact Gir and Mini-Moose. It's uses are unlimited. And that filthy Dib-beast shot it. Not to mention his horrid sister may have done further damage. I hope the painful shock she got would linger for days or years if it damaged the nerves.

With one last kick on the door, I sighed, giving up. I heard a giggle and pounding next to me and saw Gir, pounding his fists at a speed only robots could reach. Clearly he didn't know how bad our predicament is. If only he ever actually paid attention to his data that the base constantly updates him with. Wait... it's a slim chance, more than likely Gir had either turned off some important program that he could use to access the base or he's too stupid to understand what he's doing. But it's worth a shot.

"Gir..."

He turned to me with that dumb smile, "Yes, Master."

I took a deep breath and pinched the bridge of my nose, expecting the impending headache, "Could you by any chance hack into the base's systems and find out why we're locked out?"

At first I thought he was going to say he couldn't or something about pigs but he smiled and tried to jump up to hug Zim's face, "I suuuure can!"

Holding my breath, I waited to see if he was really going to comply. Hope instantly hit me as my minion's eyes started to flicker as he sorted through the oncoming data. This was going to work!

Gir's voice spoke in duty mode as he recited the data he was finding, "Detecting a malfunction in controller device #42950. Forced system reset occurred at 12:19 pm."

All that hope was quickly dashed. I could feel my squidlyspooch lurch as I recognized that was around the time the device and Zim's PAK leg had been shot. It must have ended up resetting the base as well. I had a feeling that this was just the beginning of even worse news.

"Reset to factory settings, complete..." Gir continued and fulfilling Zim's prophecy, "New user registered."

"New User..." My hands clenched in fists as I realized what Gir was going to say next, "Mistress Gaz."

He finished up, returning to his usual happy mode, smiling with his tongue poking out.

Energy shot through me and I started pounding on the door with more force, cursing the base, "Zim is your master! Not a stinking human! You worthless pile of scrap, obey me at once!"

Then as if my base took offense (and knowing my computer it most likely did) the hidden panels were opening. Security had been activated. I grabbed Gir and quickly hoisted myself on Mini-Moose, taking off just in time to avoid the weapons firing. Why is everything wanting to shoot Zim today? After we were safely far enough away, I started trying to think of options. But not any of them would work.

I could fix the controller. But how, when Zim has been locked out of his base thus the labs, could that happen? Maybe place an order for another device from those smugglers I trade with. But that would involve being able to send out communications which is impossible. This is not only a pre-contact planet, but a pre-technology one as well. Even the more primitive planets we've invaded had better technology than this. Stupid humans, only now just grasping the concept of converting sound into an electronic signal to create phones. That's like learning to rub two sticks together to discover fire when your neighbors have central heating. Which often enough, that is how they make fire. And it's not like Zim could send the pony express into space. Even if I could get in contact with my dealers, it would still take several months for them to arrive.

Even if Zim could get into the labs and fix the device, there's another pressing problem. I'm running out of gold. It is very valuable to my needs but not for the reasons it is for humans. They use it for the most ridiculous things. Money, jewelry and even teeth. How can that even be good for you? But for me, gold is a very powerful conductor, maybe even more so than the metals of Irk. One brick can keep the base going for ten years. Unlike the steam-power Zim had experimented with, which was messy, inefficient and required too much coal. But here lately Zim has been relying on it more and more. My base, though upgraded, still was an outdated model. It only came with two years worth of a power supply. If electricity was more wide-spread that I could tap into the grid, but not one place in this dump they call a town has it. The gold Zim had managed to get a hold of some gold nearly 9 years ago. If I do not find a solution my base will shut down for good. And Zim is locked out.

Even if I could get in, my base will shut down in a year or so anyway. The base is key to Zim's survival. If it goes so does Zim.

I suddenly feel tired and empty. I jumped down from my trusty steed and sat down near a cactus. I could only stare at it, not knowing what else to do. Gir was singing behind me. How could he be so happy? He's probably too stupid to understand what's happening but that's probably a good thing. Last thing Zim needs is to deal with an hysterical Gir. It's interesting how he doesn't seem to be effected by the reset. But thinking of it, he often turns off his wireless connection to the base. For once I'm glad he did. Mini-moose didn't have a connection to be updated. I created him to be perfection so he needed no updates.

I watched a tumbleweed go by. There's so many of those around here. Now that empty hopeless feeling is back. Zim does not often get this emotion, but when I do it's deep. Zim longs to be inside, safe to be the irken I am. Perhaps humans had something when they invented their locking mechanisms. Sure their keys can rust, be lost or stolen or the locks could be picked. But at least it didn't need stupid handprints.

The Dib-Sister yelping in pain should have been a clue. It wasn't because the device had been sparking. Zim remembers when his handprint was scanned and logged in. It's a sharp, jolting sensation. Now Zim's hand print means nothing. The base will only respond to the Gaz-demon's hand print...

Wait... Who says Zim needs his own handprint to be recognized? I need a handprint, what does it matter whose I use? The sense of glee filled me. A knife was dispensed from my pack. I took the time to admire the blade. Large and serrated. I pressed the button on the handle and the blade started to glow orange as it heated up. Quickly turning it off, I put in back in my PAK and stood to pet Mini-Moose.

After I pulled myself up, I continued to pet his mane, "Mini-Moose, take Zim to the Dib's dwelling. There's something I must retrieve."

And with that we were off, leaving Gir in a cloud of dust that happily played in. I smiled. If Zim needs a hand than I will get a hand. Willing or not.

Gaz's POV

I helped Dib board up the well then let him take me home. I had put some salve on my hand and started supper when he told me he wouldn't be staying. As I had just gotten the stew to boil, he said he would eat at the saloon. He could have said that earlier and saved me the hassle of cooking. I hate lighting up that stove and having to stand there and sweat only to end up more often than not eating alone. Pa usually stays at work and stays in the office and apartment he had built so he could be closer to the mines. He mostly comes home Friday nights or early Sundays to go to church but then heads straight back to work for the rest of the week. That's how we were raised up, with him parenting from afar and us mostly taking care of each other. Once when I was about 3 he had left for a month. Dib had to be the one to take care of me despite being a child himself. When he came back we were rich, apparently he had struck gold and used his reward to open a mining company. He had tried hiring help to look after us but nobody stayed to long. We weren't the most angelic children. But we liked it better this way. We can manage taking care of the house and ourselves fine. Here lately, Dib's been spending more and more time on his own. Usually he can be found tracking down Zim or spending his time at the saloon. Sometimes I join him there for a drink. Usually we spend most of our time when he's on the job. He always seems excited to have me tag along. Probably so he can prove he's a good sheriff to someone. I mostly stick around for some amusement.

I remember the first time Dib had gotten me strung along on one of his misadventures. I couldn't have been more than 16 when we saw the shooting star. At least that's what it first looked like. It seemed to get closer than changed directions in a manner I had never seen. It landed somewhere we couldn't see. Dib had wanted to go and look for it but it was too late and too dark. It was the next day when he went to his new job did it start. The local librarian had sent for him. I had came along too, wondering what criminal would bother with a library. It was out of place in this town, with not many selections not that the idiots here ever noticed. Occasionally a new book would come in and I was there first thing in the morning, especially if it was the newest dime novel of ghost story. So when we walked in and saw the majority of books missing and some thrown on the floor, I was seeing red. But it was odd. Who did it? Surely not the illiterate folk in town. A few days later we found out when we met Zim. clearly, to us at least, he was not from around here. He wasn't even human. The second thing we, well I, noticed was his manner of speaking. Though he seemed to be having trouble with his newly learned english, he would occasionally speak a perfect sentence though the context didn't make sense. I recognized some of the phrases. I had read them many times. Dib deduced that he must have been responsible for the library, needing a way to learn our language. Which has improved some over the years, though he'll always stands out when he speaks. But to Dib's annoyance, everyone bought that he was from Swedanyfranceland.

It's been amusing to watch Dib and Zim bicker. It was harmless play for years until the day Zim kidnapped Pa and came close to destroying everything. His plans were getting better and Dib was getting more determined to make a worm-farm out of him. I ain't sure how I feel about this. On one hand, while I don't like Zim I still don't want to see him dead. His existence was a curiosity for me and made this one-horse town more interesting. But on the other hand, I worry about my brother. I can't lose him, no matter what an annoying fool he is, he's my brother. Like I almost did today. When Dib suggested a duel I knew instinctively that Zim could not stop himself from taking the opportunity presented to him. When I saw the thing at my feet, I knew a distraction was my best bet. What I didn't know was how painful it would be. At least it got the job done and ended the fight.

I groaned again. Did I mention I hate cooking?

By the time the stew was finished, I was a hot sticky mess and had no appetite. I poured it into three waiting bowls and transferred them to the ice chest. Maybe if I get hungry or if Pa or Dib were to come home it would be there. Then again if I were to get hungry I'd probably eat some cheese or that salted beef we got and Dib and Pa weren't going to be home tonight. I could see the block of ice was melting. I'll tell Dib to pick up another block. So help me, if he forgets again...

Now with the chores done I could go ahead and get comfortable. I considered taking a bath but I'm not in any mood to heat up water and carry it all the way to the copper tub only to have to empty it once I was done. I settled for just sponging off at the basin. It was a relief to wash the sweat and grit from the day off. Refreshed, I got redressed. I pinned my skirts up, something my Pa found distasteful and not something a respected young lady does. He's not the one that has to worry about tripping on them. Wanting to cool off a bit more, I decided to leave my blouse and stockings off, only in my chemise, corset and pinned up skirts. I threw my bustle at the wall. Why is it fashionable to tie a metal cage to your ass? Pa won't be home and Dib wouldn't care anyway if he were here. Why do women have to wear so many layers to be respectable? It's hot and uncomfortable. I feel like the chemises and corsets should be enough to be clothed anyway. But women who do that tend to be of ill-repute. I'd like to wear pants at least once, they look so much easier to move around in. But I don't want to give people heart attacks. The again...

I love and respect my Pa, most of the time. But he's got large expectations for Dib and me both. Dib ever since he could talk wanted to be a defender of the law. Of course Pa hated the idea. No, he was to grow up and take control of the mining company that our father had founded. That isn't what happened though. My brother followed in his own footsteps, not Pa's. It's strained their relationship. Pa hardly talks to dib without mentioning the mines and Dib started staying away more. Part of me wonders if it isn't really the mines Pa's concerned about but maybe he has a problem with the law enforcement in general. Still, Dib spends almost every night of the week at Bloaty's. He used to go to the saloon at nights when Pa was expected to be home, when he chooses that to be. I'm not sure though why Dib mingles with the people there that call him crazy. Maybe it's that girl Zita that keeps him coming back. Not like he has a chance in hell with her. Not unless he wants to pay.

Expectations. I have them put on me as well. Ever since I was a child, Pa's tried to influence me to be a lady. And not once did any of it take. not even when he had that crone Miss. Bitters try and teach me etiquette. None of it took. The only thing I ever conceded to was dressing in more proper dresses, at least during special occasions when we entertained guests. Which usually entails of Pa's single and younger investors. Just like he did with Dib on his career, he often lectured me to get married. Usually pointing out that I'm now 25, on the verge of being called an old maid. Which I am more than fine with. Doesn't matter how many men he's tried to introduce me to hoping a courtship would bloom, I never took a shine to any of them. But I sure do like giving them shiners. I can't hold back the giggle when I remembered the Iggin's boy. I know what Pa's hoping for. With Dib being clear on not having any interest in the family business, he wants another heir to leave his legacy too. A son-in-law or grandson and I'm his only bet for that.

Sorry Pa, that just ain't going to happen. I have no interest in love or people in general what so ever. When I want company I go and spend some time with Dib. Maybe one day I'll get a pet, but that's the extent of my tolerance of socializing. No, I'm happy like this. Home, in an empty house, curled up with a good book. Like I plan on doing now.

I went downstairs to the parlor and sat in my favorite settee. Let's see here, I could do some knitting or I could read my new book. I hate knitting and sewing and embroidery. But it helps to keep my hands busy. They always fidget and twitch, the need to be doing something with them itching at me. But I'm close to finishing Frankenstein. Figuring it would help me unwind, I picked up the book and prepared to enjoy my solitude. It couldn't be more than an hour when I thought I heard something. I listened closer and whatever it was had stopped. Then just as I'm about to go back to my book, the doors were kicked in violently. I didn't have to look up to see who it was.

"Dib ain't here." I said, trying to brush him off.

Zim growled at me, "It's not the Dib-beast I'm after. It's you, Human!"

I sighed and turned the page, "You're still angry about what I said earlier?"

"Your foolish words from you noise tube means nothing to Zim. It's what you have done to my device that you will pay for." He tried to pierce me with his hateful gaze. I didn't care.

"If I recall, wasn't it Dib that shot that thing?"

Zim stepped forward, his red eyes starting to show through the lenses in his eyes, "It wasn't Dib that picked it up, it was you. You stupid human, touching what wasn't yours to touch, because of your stupidity, Zim is locked out."

Again I turned the page, no longer looking at him, "And why is this supposed to interest me?"

"Because it is your fault! You-you desecrated Zim's property! Don't deny it," I guess he wasn't happy with the lack of attention I was paying because I heard a snarl and felt my book ripped from my hands, "Would you put this thing down already?! You will listen to Zim and come back to unlock my base! Or else I take the only thing about you worth anything."

Enraged, I stood and found myself face to face with him, "I've had it with you."

"And I you. We could get this over quickly and you get to go back to your home in one piece..." He reached back and removed something from that thing on his back, "Or we do this the hard way."

That's when I saw the large knife. It was unlike anything I've seen and sure to do damage. But I laughed mockingly, "No. I ain't going anywhere except to bed. This space mumbo jumbo of yours ain't my concern. Now git on out of here before I doom you to a world full of pain."

I turned towards the staircase only to find myself pinned to the nearest wall. I struggled against him, trying to inflict as much damage as I could. I forgot how much taller he was, now able to easily overpower me and I only ended up wearing myself out fighting but at least I got a few scratches and kicks in. Eventually he had me faced to him. His mechanical arms were holding my right arm and neck. He had my left arm in his grasp, his claws threatening to prick my skin if I move. I looked over his shoulder to the broken door, trying to figure out how to get loose and escape.

Zim brushed the blade across my wrist, still panting from the struggle, "Now is the time to reconsider, that is if you don't want to feel unimaginable pain."

I hissed in his face, "Just do it already. I'm getting bored."

He smiled wickedly giving me a good look at his teeth. Dib was right, he really looked demonic even with his disguise. He grabbed my hand painfully, bringing the blade closer with his other hand. He cackled, "I was hoping you'd say that, Little Gaz. There is nothing Zim looks forward to more than to look you in the eye as I take your hand."

My heartbeat was the only sound I can hear. I bit the inside of my cheek to muffle my cries of pain. I looked at the blade now at my wrist. I won't be a coward and look away. I tensed in preparation, listening to the quickening pace of my heart. And then I heard something else that shook the room. "What in the Sam-hill?" Pa's thunderous voice rang out. Zim hastily put the knife away before releasing me. I smiled as he tried to but distance in between us as possible, his confidence gone. Even he knows you never threaten the offspring in front the parents.

We could see his outline, so similar to Dib's, enter through the broken door without a glance at it, "Well, well..."

His hands were behind his back and his posture resembled the one he would take when he was about to be stern with me or Dib. His voice was cold, a tone at almost frightened me, "Here I spent every day overseeing the mines, listening to those minors complain about dangerous conditions or clean air. So what do I find when I decide to come home to surprise my children?"

Zim tensed as my father now stood in front of him. As tall as Zim was, Pa towered over everybody, making him intimidating at times, especially when he is clearly displeased. Zim took a second to speak, choosing his words very carefully in hopes to escape this situation, "Zim can explain..."

"I find this shocking scene is what I find, and in my own home as well!" He raised his voice, the bandana covering his face doing nothing to muffle it. As long as I can remember we have never seen his face or eyes. He said he had been in a terrible accident wehen were were babies. Though we could tell he must've looked like Dib and seeing him staring Zim down only further confirms my beliefs.

I smiled as I could see Zim, who had just been acting big and tough, now nearly trembling in fear.

"It wasn't what it looked like..." Zim tried to speak but was cut off by Pa once again.

"Oh, think it's exactly what it looks like," He leaned in only inches from Zim's face. Zim seemed to accept the oncoming retribution, standing straight to face whatever was coming, "It looks to me that you were trying to take my little girl's hand. Are you going to pretend I didn't hear that?"

I'm disappointed to see Zim losing his fear, trying to hold his head high, "No, Sir, I won't."

"If it is my daughter's hand you want..." His hand suddenly grasped Zim's shoulder, his jovial nature returning to his tone, "Then you shall have it!"

"Pa!" I looked to Zim who looked just as confused as I did but relieved.

"I can't say I fully approve of that little passionate display but I understand completely. I was young and in love once. Now I know why you never seemed to fancy any of those suitors I brought home.." His voice was now wavering with joy. If we could see his eyes from behind his dark spectacles I'm sure they would be watering. This dream needs to be crushed painfully now.

It's now I remember the state of my undress. The pieces are coming together, understanding just what it was my father thought he had walked in on. From his vantage point at the door he would've seen me pinned to a wall, both of us disheveled and panting with him holding my left hand, the one a ring would go on. Zim even unfortunately expressed that he would be happy to take my hand, which must've been the point of conversation he heard. But instead of Pa seeing it as a violent scene that was about to lead to much blood shed, he saw what he wanted to see, his dream for an expanding family to carry his legacy.

Zim, now coming to the same conclusion, joined in on my protests.

"No Pa! He was wanting to-" I was interrupted.

"I know, I know,' He said and turned to Zim again, "You were wanting to elope, weren't you? Tsk tsk, not even asking for my approval first. Of course I would have said yes. You've been my son's friend for years!"

"Cease your infernal chatter and listen!" Zim shouted, startling me. Never had I heard anyone dare speak to my father like that, "Zim was trying to saw your daughters hand off. Not marry her! I was going to take great pleasure in hearing your daughter's wrist snap as I sawed through bone and I still plan to!"

Zim certainly didn't mince any words. Both of us waited for Pa to react to the horrid truth. Then he started laughing and clapped Zim on the back, "Oh, that was a good one. You've got my daughter's sense of humor. She's the funny child, you know."

Zim looked at me for help. Not that I had any clue. I knew my father. Once he's convinced of something there just simply isn't any other reality. Dib knows this painfully well. I'm trying to think of solutions. Perhaps I'll let Pa have his moment of happiness tonight. Tomorrow I'll go to Zim's house and unlock it for him. With that out of the way maybe we could figure out something. Maybe if I beat him hard enough he'll agree to leave town and I can say I was jilted. Maybe Zim will have an idea, use some sort of hypnosis to make Pa forget. Dib always tells me that the space-man had all sorts of things that could be used on the human populace.

"Now lets discuss this further in my study." Pa slung an arm around Zim's shoulder, making him cringe before he started to lead him out of the parlor. I followed angrily but was stopped at the door.

"Gazlene, I'd really like to have a word with your little foreign fella. I promise, you two can cozy up to each other later," I growled when he patted me on the head, "Why don't you get some refreshments. and bring the crystal stemware we use for dinner parties and the champagne. We're going to have a toast!"

Pa and his damned obsession with giving toasts. Shaking with rage, I did as told. If I stayed any longer, someone would be in a world of pain, maybe even him.

Zim better find a way out of this by the time I get back.

Zim's POV

I took a look around this "study". The furniture, Zim has to admit, was beautifully polished mahogany. And the low lighting from the oil lamp on the desk bathed in it in a warm and cozy glow. It would've been a room Zim liked had it not been for the smell of tobacco and the severed heads of earth beasts hanging of the walls. Not the heads of enemies he conquered but poor deer and worse yet a beautiful moose. That's just disturbing.

The patriarch, who had raised two demon-spawn from the darkest pits that has tormented Zim, turned to me and smiled. I think he smiled, hard to tell. He chuckled, "Now that she'll be busy for a bit, we should talk. Man to man. I'd like to know your prospects about the future and see if I can't sway you to work for our mining company. It was intended to be a family business after all."

"Zim doesn't wish to be in your sadistic family!" I hissed at him. This human, who supposedly was the most intelligent man in the west, was painfully dense. Zim isn't sure where the Membrana offspring got their intellect, but he was sure this man must of had a hand in why both the siblings were so crazy now.

"I understand, there's a lot of pressure being in the Membrana family," He replied sincerely walking over to a globe that inaccurately displayed a map of earth. That was forgotten when he opened it and pulled out a bottle of amber liquid and couple of tumblers. That was neat, "But there are a lot of benefits too. Would you like some brandy?"

"I will say this slowly for your pitiful human brain to understand. I. Don't. Want..." Then that last word finally sank in, "Did you say benefits?"

"Of course! I thought Dib or Gaz would have told you by now." He poured the two small glasses and handed one to me. I sniffed it and nearly gagged. He sat down in the leather armchair across fom Zim and raised his glass at me, "Come now, have a drink with your future father-in-law. Just a small one won't hurt while we wait for the champagne."

Zim will never understand the appeal of something that smells like medical sanitizing chemicals. Worse even. But humans seem to love it. I gave in to curiosity and gulped it down. It was immediate regret. It burned causing be to nearly choke on it. And the taste! Like drinking formaldehyde. I shook and let out a long moan that sounded similar to that of a cow.

Membrane leaned forward from his seat and patted my back, which confused me. Either he was trying to burp Zim or congratulation him, "You alright there, Son? This was your first drink wasn't it?"

I merely nodded, thankful that there was no water in the drink.

"My apologies, I didn't realize. But that's good you don't spend your time drunk in those saloons. Yes, any man who marries my little girl must have honorable values."

Soon the burning subsided and the taste became bearable. Zim felt strange but not all together unpleasant. Feeling more warm and confident I asked again, "What benefits?

"Ah yes," He remembered his original train of thought, "You see, I own the Membrana Mining Co. One of the most successful in the U.S. We have crystal mines, coper mines, silver mines, but the most lucrative of all is our gold mines. Did you know that %15 of America's gold is from our mines?

Did Zim hear right? Gold? And not just gold. Not only could I fix this device but build better weapons as well. Zim's base could be upgraded to be the envy of all invaders not to mention keep it running for hundreds of years. This "marriage" will ensure Zim's survival. Not that I care for that thing named Gaz but it doesn't matter. These human rules and ceremonies may bind her to me as her mate but they don't apply to me. Technically Zim will still remain unattached. This opportunity not only will save Zim's life but perhaps help me squash this ball of dirt. Then maybe I could find a real mate. Mate-ships are only allowed to tallers as they are the only irkens able to reproduce naturally. Two tallers may meet on their own and get approval from the control-brains to mate. Then there's matching the more successful irkens. That could include the Tallest's favorite entertainers, or the politicians that serve under the tallests. And then there's the elite invaders, those who have conquered a planet in the name of Irk. This is what motivates many invaders at least the ones who have gained in height. They can choose from the most attractive irkens, who have trained to please their mates.

Yes, this is a privilege reserved for Tallers and the successful. But Zim is taller now. And soon, when I've crushed this ball of dirt, I'll have met the other requirement.

I took another sip, now growing used to the drink. I waited for the Membrana-father to speak again which he did as Zim predicted, "You remind me a lot of myself. I was a young man, much younger than you or Dib when I came to this country from Mexico. I only knew five words of English back then. And I'm sure you know how tough fitting in is and making a name for yourself in this world."

Despite being insulted at being compared to this old fool, I just noded my head and urged him to continue.

"I had to fight and scratch for everything. Thankfully my instincts and intellect helped me reach where I am today. I just wish my wife could've been alive to see it all."

He continued with a remorseful sigh, "I wish I had spent more time with Dib. Perhaps try to show him the ropes when he was younger. But eventually I had to accept that he is now a man and free to choose his own path. If only it wasn't the law. Dangerous profession ripe with corruption. I had hoped Gazlene would find love and know the joy of a family. I was starting to give up hope. But now..."

Again he raised his glass, higher this time, "Here you are. Having been right in front of our eyes the whole time. I've always liked you, even though I first thought you were more interested in my son than my daughter..."

I nearly gagged on the brandy, choked and nearly died. Where does this human come up with such insane ideas? Must be where Dib gets it from.

"But either way, you've always have been a friend to this family and I'm glad you're finally apart of it." He ended what ever speech it was he was compelled to give and lifted the scarf covering most of his face, only enough to take a sip from his drink.

"Zim appreciates your sentiment. Now tell me more about this mining business." I tried to sound as casual as possible as if I were asking about the weather. What is it with humans and discussing weather?

"I had a feeling about you, my boy!" He laughed somewhat creepily, like a human who is laughing and thanking their imaginary god for saving them from a close call with death, "I was just about to ask if you would be interested in learning about the family business. Well, now it will be a family business thanks to you. I saw that gleam in your eye. That's the look of someone with ambition!"

I flinched as he moved from his chair and patted Zim on the back. Why does he keep doing that? In fact, well he's always seemed like a pleasant sort, but I don't think Zim's ever seen him act this strange. Perhaps it's the excitement about the marriage. Or, more likely from what I've gathered from this conversation, he has sought another son figure in his life, one more in tuned to his interests. It makes thing easier for me when I ask for complete and total access to the inventory.

He moved back into his chair and was rooting around the the end-table next to it. Finally he pulled out a small pocketbook and looked through it, "Hmmm, would you consider setting the date sooner than later?"

I gave my best smile, the one that makes Gir cry for some reason, "Oh, the sooner the better."

"I agree. And it'll fall on her favorite holiday. I'll talk to the pastor tomorrow. He owes me a favor."

The door swung opened and Gaz carried a tray in. She set it down and snarled at the sight of them drinking brandy after she went through that trouble. Still, she poured the champagne into the requested stemware. I found her annoyed expression amusing. Finally she collected herself enough to force out what she wanted to say, "So, has this whole thing been settled for good yet?"

I chuckled darkly. Is she not going to like the answer to that. Serves the Gaz-witch right after all Zim had to go through today because of her and her brother. Now Zim has the upper hand, she'll be more susceptible to unlocking the base. Honestly, Zim hopes to keep this little arrangement short. As soon as I get access to the inventory, I won't need her anymore. Or any of the wretched family. I'll have my resources and return to my former gory.

"Of course, daughter," Her father gave her a reassuring look, "I think we can have the wedding next Sunday."

Her face lost all it's color and nearly turned green. She was careful when speaking, as if she was afraid of vomiting, "S-sunday... no, that ain't right, there's got be be a misunderstanding.

Her head turned from her father to me. Her eyes were wide so I could see her vibrant irises. Gaz observed Zim's face, looking for a hint of some resistance to these plans

I smiled and picked up a glass, holding it out for her before I put another nail in the coffin, "A toast to you, dearest. Till death do us part."

Gaz's POV

I stood there in horror as Pa and Zim made a toast. My corset suddenly felt too tight. I feel sick. I ran out., I ran to the closest water closet and promptly vomited. That couldn't be real. None of this is real.

There is no way Zim would humiliate himself by marrying a lowly human. But that look on his face. It was the most demented smile I've ever scene. He's up to something. Finally realizing I wasn't dreaming and reality sank it, my rage came back,

God damn corsets and stockings.

God damn Dib. If he had been here this wouldn't have happened. Hell, if he had never picked a fight with Zim things might be different.'

God damn Zim... damn him to hell.

And god damn me for not letting him cut my hand off from the beginning.

A/N: I have written this three times because my microsoft word doesn't seem to want to save. I have a purpose changing the last name to Membrana. As I recall from spanish it means Membrane I think. I like the idea of the professor's name be Membrane Membrana.

And my my, Membrane left his daughter out of all the planning didn't he? Dadzilla. And there'll be more about him and his mysterious past later. It's mysterious why he's mysterious, isn't it? And Gaz may seem helpless now but just wait.

I'd like to apologize again for the quality. The first time I wrote this it came out perfect. But writing this three times and the last taking me all night, I'm a bit foggy on what I had originally written. Also the editing may be really bad.

But I hoped you liked, feel free to leave a comment.