Here is part two. This one is about Sailor Venus's daughter, Gloria. Once
again I love e-mail so please send me any feedback, comments, or
suggestions to AngelRaye2@aol.com
Also please check out my web site at
http://angelrayeschibiscouts.homestead.com/angelraye.html
Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon. I only created the Chibi Scouts
except for Rini.
Our Daughters
Part 2: Gloria
By
Angel Raye
Chapter One: The Announcement
"So Amy," said Mina. "Can you tell me why I have been feeling so sick
lately?"
"I sure can," said Amy. "You are going to have a baby."
"A baby," gasped Mina. "Of course. I am going to have a daughter." The
thousand years of dormancy had left everyone with hazy memories but Mina
vaguely remembered a little girl, claiming to be her daughter, coming back
to the 20th century to see her. Sailor Pluto allowed everyone to revive
their memories except the ones of their daughters. She felt it would be a
good idea if everyone could have their children without memories of the
past influencing them.
"Well, yours will make her appearance in about eight months," said Amy.
Mina was excited. She was the fourth one to have a child. Neo-Queen
Serenity had Rini about four-and-a-half years ago. Jupiter and Pluto each
had a daughter a few months ago. Daisy and Maggie will be about one year
older than Mina's child will.
"I have to tell Asai," said Mina. "He has wanted us to have a child. We
have been trying for a while."
"Well I figured it was about time for you," said Amy. "I remember your
daughter being next after Pluto's and Jupiter's so I knew you were next."
"Asai is going to be so happy," said Mina. "I cannot wait to tell him."
"Then you had better go and tell him now," said Amy with a laugh. "I'll go
and tell the king and queen. You know how Serenity always looks for a
reason to throw a party."
"Then I guess there will be a celebration tonight," said Mina as she left
Amy's office.
Artemis was outside the door waiting for her. "What did Amy say," he asked.
Mina scooped Artemis up and he jumped on her shoulder. "There is going to
be a new member of the family soon," she said.
"Really," said Artemis in delight. "You are going to have a baby?"
"Yes," said Mina. "But not a word out of you until I tell Asai. I want
him to hear it from me."
"Very well," said Artemis. "I promise my lips are sealed."
Asai was waiting for her in their quarters. "So," he asked. "What is
wrong with you? Why have you been so sick lately?"
"I am fine Asai," said Mina kissing her husband. "I do need to
congratulate you though."
"Congratulate me," said Asai in surprise. "For what?"
"You are going to be a father," said Mina.
"I am what," asked Asai in shock.
"You are going to be a father," said Mina.
"That is so wonderful," said Asai happily. "When?"
"Amy said in about eight months," said Mina. "So we have time to convert
our spare room into a nursery."
"I'll get started on it right away," said Asai as he kissed Mina. "I
cannot wait until the baby comes."
That evening there was a party to celebrate Mina's pregnancy. All of the
Scouts and Knights were there.
"A toast," said King Endymion. "To the newest member of the family."
"May she be healthy and happy," said Neo-Queen Serenity.
"Congratulations," said everyone.
Serenity brought her daughter, Rini, over. Rini was pouting. "Another
baby," she said.
"Darling," said Serenity. "What are you supposed to tell Mina?"
"Congratulations," said Rini as she gave Mina some flowers.
"Thank you Pumpkin," said Mina taking the flowers. "I know you will be a
great big sister to her."
Rini smiled a little smile. Serenity leaned over and whispered to Mina.
"I am afraid she has been feeling a little jealous because of all of these
babies that are coming."
"Can't blame her," said Mina. "She was the center of attention for four
years and now all of us our having babies."
"Congratulations Mina," said Raye as she and Lita came over. "Chad and I
are going to start trying for one of our own."
"Just get all of the sleep you can," said Lita winking at Mina. "Because
once that child comes you will never get a full night sleep."
"Don't tell me that," said Mina with a groan.
"I am afraid she is telling the truth," said Serenity. "I rarely got a
good night sleep after Rini was born. Fortunately after she turned one she
started sleeping all night."
"Being a mother is worth it," said Lita. "I really enjoy Daisy."
"Just as long as she is healthy I will put up with anything," said Mina,
Chapter 2: The Birth
Mina woke up feeling uncomfortable. She realized that she was having
contractions. Yes it was about time for the baby to come along. She
reached over and shook Asai. "Asai," she whispered. "I think it's time."
"Huh," said Asai sleepily.
"It's time," said Mina.
Asai sat up suddenly. "It's time," he asked.
"Yes," said Mina. "Get Amy in here quickly."
A few minutes later Amy was in Mina's quarters giving her an examination.
"Yes it looks like this baby is ready to come," said Amy. "It's not going
to be too long. We need to get you to my office immediately. "
Amy and Asai helped Mina to her feet. They left the quarters and headed
toward Amy's office. On the way Mina gave a loud cry.
"What is it," asked Asai in alarm.
"My water broke," said Mina.
"Oh we have got to hurry," said Amy as she sped up.
The baby was definitely ready to come. Amy barely had Mina positioned on
the birthing bed when the baby's head came out.
"Just give a good hard push Mina," said Amy. "This baby is ready."
"Okay," said Mina and she pushed hard.
"I got her," said Amy as a loud wailing filled the room.
"Oh thank goodness," said Mina sinking back against the pillow. Amy
wrapped the baby in a blanket and handed her to Mina. Mina gazed lovingly
down at her. A mop of red hair covered her head. Her eyes were blue like
Mina's. Mina rocked her trying to get her to stop crying.
"She's beautiful," said Asai. "She sure has lung power doesn't she?"
"I hate to say this but she is definitely the noisiest one so far," said
Amy with a laugh.
"I don't care," said Mina. "She is healthy and beautiful."
"That she is," said Asai kissing Mina.
Mina gazed down at the screaming baby. "Gloria," she said. "I love you."
The next morning Asai spread the word about Gloria. Neo-Queen Serenity and
the rest of the Scouts came to visit.
"Just look at her," said Serenity in delight. "She is so beautiful."
"She is so loud," said Rini putting her hands over her ears.
"Rini," said Serenity in a soft warning voice putting her hand on her
daughter's head to quiet her."
"I know she is a screamer," said Mina. "Hopefully she will not always be
like this."
"She is precious," said Mars who just recently found out she was pregnant.
"Look Daisy," said Jupiter holding up her toddler. "Look at the baby."
Daisy giggled and looked at Mina's baby. "She is so beautiful," said Jupiter.
"I cannot get over that red hair," said Saturn.
"Me either," said Uranus. "She is going to be a fiery one."
"And strong," said Neptune whose finger was being gripped by Gloria.
"Mina," said Pluto. "She is going to be a handful but you will love her
and she will love you."
"Listen to her Mina," said Mars. "She knows what she is talking about.
She told me I am going to have a difficult pregnancy and so far she has
been right. I have been sick twenty-four hours a day."
"I am ready for whatever challenges come my way," said Mina.
Chapter 3: A Little Terror
Venus was on her way to the nursery. She had just gotten a call from Palla
and Ves, the palace nannies that Gloria was causing too much trouble and
needed to be disciplined by her parents. Venus was more than just a little
annoyed. The Scouts had been in the middle of a meeting with the Queen
when she was called. She wondered what Gloria was up too.
When she got to the nursery she saw Mars's two-year-old daughter Annika
clutching her favorite stuffed dog and sobbing. Jupiter's four-year-old
daughter Daisy was trying to comfort her. Pluto's four-year-old daughter
Maggie was holding an ice pack to her arm. Neptune and Uranus's
three-year-old twins, Hope and Faith were playing some rowdy game. Palla
was holding Saturn's one-year-old daughter Madelyn and Ves was feeding
Mercury's infant daughter Ariel. Venus looked around and saw her
three-year-old daughter Gloria sitting in the corner pouting.
"What is going on," demanded Venus.
"You daughter is not keeping her hands to herself," said Palla. "She hit
Annika on the head with a block, bit Maggie on the arm and now she just
pushed Madelyn against the door. She is not listening to us at all."
"Do we need a spanking," asked Venus.
"No," said Gloria.
"The you had a better shape up," said Venus sternly.
"I don't have to listen to anyone," said Gloria rudely.
"That is another thing," said Ves. "She has been talking back to us all
day and she has stuck her tongue out at us a couple of times."
"I will talk to her right now," said Venus and she knelt down in front of
her daughter. "Now listen young lady," she said sternly. "I do not want
anymore bad reports about your behavior today. If I have to come back here
you will go straight to bed after dinner tonight."
"But," Gloria started to say but Venus put her hand over her child's mouth.
"No buts," she said firmly. "You have a choice. You can either behave
yourself for the rest of the day or you can get an early bedtime tonight.
Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes," said Gloria in a sulky voice.
"I have to go back to work," said Venus kissing her daughter on the
forehead. "I love you and you behave yourself."
"Bye," said Gloria.
Venus walked over to Palla and Ves. "I talked to her," she told them. "If
she gives you any more problems just let me know."
"Thank you Venus," said Palla.
"Not a problem," said Venus and she stopped in front of Annika who was
still sobbing. "You okay honey?"
"I want Mama," sobbed Annika.
"You will see her in a little while," said Venus patting Annika on the
head. She left the nursery and headed back toward the conference room.
Gloria was a major handful and she was usually the one who got into trouble
in the nursery. It was just another typical day.
Chapter 4: A Day Out
"I don't want to wear a jacket," whined Gloria.
"Then I guess you will stay here and the rest of us will go out," said
Mina. It was Saturday and Mina and Asai decided to go on a picnic and to
the zoo. Raye, Chad and Annika along with Lita, Ken, and Daisy were going
to be coming. Mina had been looking forward to this day but right now
Gloria was being stubborn. It was a cool day and she hated wearing jackets.
"I don't want to stay here," said Gloria.
"Then put on your jacket," said Mina. "Amy is staying here today so I am
sure she can keep an eye on you." Amy's daughter Ariel was only a year old
and was teething big time. Because of that she was cranky all the time so
Amy decided to keep her in that day.
Gloria pouted and wriggled into her jacket. A knock at the door indicated
the others had arrived so Mina let them in.
"Gloria," said Annika bounding up to her. Her mother had put a jacket and
a hat on her since she was getting over an ear infection.
"Hi," said Gloria giving Annika a hug. She loved Annika.
"Hi Gloria," said Daisy waving to her.
Gloria just waved back. She and Daisy were always getting into fights.
"Are you ready," said Raye who did not tolerate lateness.
"We are," said Mina. "Are you ready Artemis?"
"Of course I am," said the white cat.
"Gloria was just being on the stubborn side this morning," said Asai.
"They all go through that," said Lita with a laugh.
"Gloria is just permanently stubborn," said Mina and everyone laughed as
they left Mina's quarters.
At the entrance they met Neo-Queen Serenity. "Have a great time," she said.
"Are you sure you do not want to come with us," asked Raye putting her arm
around her best friend.
"I'm sure," said Serenity with a smile. "Darien and I are going to do
something special today anyway."
"That's good," said Lita. "Don't look so sad. Rini will come back to you
soon." Rini was off in the 20th century training as Sailor Chibi Moon.
The Scouts knew that Serenity was worried because Rini was back during the
time they were battling the death busters. Even though they all knew Rini
was going to be all right a mother always missed her child when she was gone.
"Thank you," said Serenity.
The girls had a great time that day. Annika loved watching the monkeys so
Raye and Chad had to keep taking her back to see them. Daisy wanted to try
boxing with the kangaroos but Lita said absolutely not. Gloria was running
around every where so Mina and Asai were just exhausted by the time
lunchtime came around. They chose a spot in the picnic area that was by a
pond.
"No Annika it is too cold for you to dip your feet in," said Raye firmly to
her daughter. Annika wanted to take her shoes and socks off so she could
wade in the water. Annika pouted but did not press the matter further.
"How do you do it," asked Mina.
"Do what," asked Raye.
"Gloria would still be arguing with me," said Mina. "How do you get Annika
not to argue."
"She knows better," said Raye.
"You have to remember something Mina," said Lita. "Annika and Gloria have
completely different personalities. Annika is just very cooperative.
Daisy is a pretty good child but she can be a handful at times."
"Speaking of handfuls," said Ken. "Look at our kids now."
Everyone looked and saw Gloria and Daisy wrestling with each other. Annika
was watching with wide eyes.
"Girls stop it," said Lita in a sharp voice as she went over and pulled
Daisy to her feet.
"Gloria took my hair ribbon," said Daisy.
"That does not mean you can fight," said Lita crossly. "Come and have a
time out."
"You know you are not supposed to take things that do not belong to you,"
said Mina to Gloria.
"I was just playing," said Gloria angrily.
"Time out," said Mina dragging Gloria by the arm.
"I didn't do anything," Annika said quickly.
"I know," said Raye. "Come and have lunch."
After everyone ate and the punishments were up, Gloria and Daisy ran off to
play some more. Annika had lain down with her head on Raye's lap and had
fallen asleep.
"I guess I am not moving for a while," said Raye gently stroking her
daughter's hair.
"You're lucky," said Lita. "Mine has outgrown naps since she started
Kindergarten."
"Gloria stopped taking naps when she was one," said Mina. "I still have a
hard time getting her down at night too."
Everyone laughed. Poor Mina had not had a decent night sleep since Gloria
was born.
"Look," Gloria said to Daisy. "That tree looks easy to climb."
"Let's go then," said Daisy and the two girls began climbing.
"Girls," said Artemis. "You should not be climbing the tree. You could
fall and hurt yourself."
"You are not Daddy Artemis," said Gloria.
"I know I am not but I still have to watch over you," said Artemis with a
sigh.
"Race you to the top," said Gloria and the two girls giggled and began to
climb faster.
"I am going to beat you," said Daisy. "I'm bigger."
"I can move fast," said Gloria.
"That is high enough," said Mina coming up to them.
"Why," said Gloria with a pout.
"Because you could fall and hurt yourself," said Mina. "You girls are too
young to be climbing up high trees."
"That's what I tried to tell them," said Artemis.
"Rats," said Gloria climbing down. "You never let me have fun."
"What about today," asked Mina. "Didn't you have fun today?"
"Yes," said Gloria.
"Then stop acting so deprived," said Mina taking her daughter by the hand
and bringing her back to the group. Annika was still asleep on her
mother's lap.
"Are those two monkeys climbing tree," asked Lita.
"They would have gone to the top if I had not stopped them," said Mina.
"Face it Mina," said Lita. "We both have a couple of daredevils."
"Then they will have no problems when it is time to be scouts," said Mina
and everyone nodded in agreement.
That night Mina got Gloria ready for bed. Despite the difficulties Mina
had enjoyed spending the day with her family and friends.
"Mommy," said Gloria.
"Yes Darling," said Mina picking up the book Gloria had chosen for her
bedtime story.
"I had fun today," said Gloria.
"So did I Gloria," said Mina.
"Even though I was bad once," asked Gloria.
"Yes," said Mina.
"Good," said Gloria.
"We just need to remember to listen and follow rules," said Mina. "I do
not make up these rules to be mean. I make them up because I love you and
I want you to be safe."
"Oh," said Gloria. "I love you too Mommy."
"I know you do," said Mina kissing her little girl on the cheek "Now let's
read you your story." Gloria snuggled down into her mother's arms and
listened to the story. Then Mina tucked her in for the night.
"Mommy," said Gloria as Mina kissed her goodnight. "Will you rub my back?"
"Of course," said Mina. That always got Gloria to settle down quickly.
Mina lay down next to Gloria and rubbed her back until she was fast asleep.
Mina kissed her daughter again feeling the overwhelming love she felt for
Gloria.
Chapter 5: Kindergarten Performance
Gloria crumpled up her paper in frustration. It was during playtime and
when Gloria asked Annika what she wanted to do she said she wanted to draw.
Gloria reluctantly agreed to draw with her but she always made mistakes.
She looked at Annika and saw she had drawn a picture of the palace with
people standing in front of it.
"Who are they," Gloria asked pointing to Annika's picture.
"Me and Mama, and Daddy," said Annika.
"Let's do something else," said Gloria.
"I don't want to," said Annika in her soft, sweet voice. "You can go and
play with Hope and Faith if you want."
Gloria was about to that when Mrs. James rang the bell for clean up time.
Annika obediently started putting away the markers and crayons. Gloria
just stalled. She hated cleaning up.
"Come on Gloria," said Mrs. James. "You have to clean up."
"I don't want to," said Gloria.
"Would you like a time-out," asked Mrs. James. Gloria sighed and started
helping Annika. Once the room was clean the children sat down on the
carpet. As usual Gloria, Annika, Faith, and Hope sat together.
"Now Children," said Mrs. James. "Parent night is coming up. The
Kindergarten classes are going to do two things for that night. We will
put up all of our art work for the parents to see."
Annika looked delighted when Mrs. James said that. She was good at art and
loved to have it on display. Gloria was not very happy to hear that. She
was not good at art.
"Our class will also be singing songs for the parents," said Mrs. James.
Gloria was glad to hear that. She loved singing. Her mother said she got
her love of it from her. Annika on the other hand looked terrified.
"Gloria," said Mrs. James. "How would you like the sing a part by yourself?"
"Yes," said Gloria in excitement. "I would really like that."
"Okay," said Mrs. James. "Now who else would like a chance to sing by
themselves?" Several hands went in the air.
Gloria did not pay attention anymore. She was too excited.
When the girls got home from school Gloria jumped right into her mother's
arms.
"Well," said Venus. "It must have been a good day."
"It was," said Gloria. "I get to sing by myself for parents' night."
"That's wonderful Darling," said Venus giving Gloria a hug. "I knew I had
passed something good onto you."
"They are going to have art too," said Gloria. "But I don't care about that."
"I do," said Annika softly who was snuggled in her mother's arms. "I just
wish I did not have to sing in front of people."
"Oh Annika it is not that bad," said Mars. "I always loved getting up in
front of people and singing."
"You weren't shy Mars," said Mercury. "Annika is."
"It won't be so bad," said Serenity patting Annika on the head.
"Well I cannot wait," said Gloria. "I am going to do so good."
"A star is born," said Venus and everyone laughed.
The next couple of weeks the Kindergarten was busy. Artwork was being done
so it could be displayed for the parents. The children were also
practicing their favorite songs to perform. Gloria and the few other
children who had solos practiced very hard. Gloria could not wait until
she was able to perform.
Annika worked hard with her art. She did not want to sing in front of the
parents. Hope also worked hard on the art but she also had a solo. Faith
just did not care one way or the other. She preferred outside games.
On Parents night Gloria took her parents around the classroom. She was
excited.
"Slow down Gloria," said Mina with a laugh. "I know you are going to do
great."
"Of course I am," said Gloria. "I have been practicing."
"We know," said Asai. Gloria had been walking around the palace for the
last couple of weeks singing the songs that was going to be performed tonight.
"I want to talk to your teacher for a minute," said Mina and she walked
over to Mrs. James who was talking to Haruka and Micharu about the twins.
Raye and Chad were looking at Annika's artwork with her. Pride was in
Raye's eyes.
"So I guess you are here to talk about Gloria," said Mrs. James.
"Yes," said Mina. "I am more concerned about her behavior than anything
else."
"Her work is fine," said Mrs. James. "She does have an attitude problem
though. She does not like authority at all and has no respect for it."
"She has always been like that," said Mina looking over at Gloria who was
showing some of her work to Asai. "I am working on it at home and you can
count on me to help you here."
"I appreciate that," said Mrs. James. "I am also concerned about she can
be toward the other children."
"Gloria does have a mean streak," admitted Mina. "She loves playing tricks
on others and they are not always nice."
"She has a few friends," said Mrs. James. "But most of them are through
Annika and the twins."
"Annika is very sweet," said Mina. "Gloria loves her."
"I can tell," said Mrs. James.
"Just let me know if Gloria gets too out of hand here," said Mina. "She
does not get away with anything at home and she is not going to get away
with anything here."
"I'll do that," said Mrs. James.
"Thank you," said Mina.
The parents loved watching the children sing. Annika refused to get up in
front of everyone and glued herself to her mother's lap. Mrs. James
decided not to force her up there. Hope enjoyed her performing and did a
good job. There was a lot of pride in Haruka and Micharu's eyes. Faith
was not in the spotlight but she did what she was supposed to do and did a
good job. Gloria sang as loud as she could and had a good time. She could
tell that her parents were proud of her. It ended up being a successful
night for the Kindergarten class.
"I was so proud of you tonight," said Mina as she tucked Gloria into bed
that night."
"I did good didn't I," said Gloria proudly.
"You did," said Mina with a laugh as she kissed Gloria goodnight.
"I am going to be a famous singer when I grow up," said Gloria.
Mina just smiled. She had the same dream as a child but had to give it up
when her destiny as a palace guardian was spelled out. Mina decided to let
her child dream about it now but she knew the day would come when Gloria
would have to give up that dream.
"Goodnight Mommy," said Gloria.
"Goodnight Darling," said Mina kissing her daughter again. "Pleasant
dreams," she whispered.
Chapter 6: Trouble at a Party
"Now," said Mina as she put a bow in Gloria's hair. "What is the new rule
at parties."
"Don't get anything to eat or drink without you or Daddy," said Gloria.
Last time at a palace party Gloria and Annika drank wine thinking it was
apple juice. Both of them had gotten sick afterwards. Both Mina and Raye
had been furious to find out that the drink table had been left unattended
with young children around. Even though the king and queen had switched
caterers Mina and Raye decided not to allow their children to get anything
without one of them or their daddies with them.
"Good girl," said Mina kissing her daughter. "You look very pretty
tonight."
"So do you Mommy," said Gloria. "I want to be as pretty as you one day."
Mina did look beautiful in her orange gown.
"You already are," said Mina.
"And I have the two most beautiful dates," said Asai coming into the room
with his tuxedo on. "Are you ladies ready?"
"We are," said Mina taking Gloria by the hand.
"The let's go," said Asai and they all left together.
As it always was, parties honoring adults were boring and this one was no
exception. This one was to honor the Scouts and the Knights for all their
hard work. Gloria was bored out of her mind. She watched Annika being
held by both of her parents as they danced together. Ariel's parents were
doing the same thing with her. Gloria had danced a couple of dances with
her parents and then decided she had enough. She was hoping to play with
Annika but she was still dancing. Gloria had a feeling since Raye was a
bit on the overly protective side that she was going to keep Annika with
her for most of the party after what happened last time.
"Lost your sidekick tonight didn't you," said Rini.
"What do you mean," asked Gloria seething. Rini was almost twelve and
loved using words that the younger children did not understand.
"I mean Annika," said Rini. "I heard Raye saying that she was going to
make sure Annika did not get into trouble tonight. She is planning on
keeping a close eye on her."
"She said that," asked Gloria in disbelief.
"She did," said Rini. "I heard her myself."
"Annika is my best friend," said Gloria.
"I know she is," said Rini. "But the only time she gets into trouble is
when she is with you."
"That's not true," said Gloria fiercely. Meanwhile Daisy, Faith, and Hope
had come over and were listening with amusement.
"Actually that is true," said Hope. "Annika only gets into trouble in
school when she does something with you."
"That is why Mrs. Hastings has split you up," said Faith referring to their
first grade teacher.
"She split the two of you up," said Rini.
"Yes," said Faith. "Annika sits near the door and Gloria sits right by the
teacher's desk."
"So I can keep my eye on you," said Hope mimicking their teacher.
"Face it Gloria," said Daisy. "You are just a troublemaker."
"So are you," said Gloria in rage. "At least I have not lost recess
because of fighting."
That angered Daisy. "At least I am not rude to everyone," she said.
"What is going on here," asked Artemis coming over.
"You girls should not be fighting," said Luna.
"Daisy your mother told me to keep an eye on you," said Crescent. "Please
don't get me into trouble."
"Fine," said Daisy. "I don't want this brat to get me into trouble anyway."
"You big bully," said Gloria and she flew at Daisy.
"Gloria," said Artemis biting the hem of Gloria's dress to stop her. He
did not succeed. Gloria flew at Daisy while Artemis tumbled backward with
a piece of the dress in his mouth. Gloria tried to knock Daisy over but
the older girl was strong like her mother and grabbed Gloria's arm. Gloria
ended up on the floor.
"Girls," said Rini. "Maybe you two should stay away from each other."
"Good idea," said Crescent. "Come on Daisy. Let's go and find your
parents."
"I think that would be a good idea for you too," said Artemis. "I think we
should go and find yours too."
Gloria was not listening. She watched as Daisy followed Crescent. She got
to her feet and flew at Daisy catching her off guard. Daisy crashed to the
floor and Gloria jumped on top of her. The two started fighting.
"Daisy," said Crescent jumping at the two girls. He got flung away and
would of crashed if Faith had not quickly caught him.
"You are such a brat Gloria," said Daisy trying to push the younger child
off of her.
"Shut up," said Gloria as she scratched Daisy on the cheek.
"This is not good," said Luna as she ran toward the crowd of adults trying
to find Mina or Lita.
Daisy pushed Gloria off of her. Gloria bumped into something and then
heard a loud crash. Suddenly she was covered with food. Gloria saw that
she had bumped into one of the caterers and knocked him down. His tray of
food went all over the place.
"Uh oh," said Gloria and she turned toward Daisy. Daisy was looking at
something else. Gloria looked and saw a very angry Mina and Lita standing
over them.
"I have never been so embarrassed in all my life," said Mina once she
dragged Gloria back to their quarters.
"I said I was sorry," yelled Gloria.
"Watch your tone young lady," said Mina. "Tonight's behavior was
completely unacceptable. You know fighting with the other children is not
allowed. You have also ruined your dress."
Gloria looked at her yellow princess dress. It was stained and torn.
"Well Daisy made me mad," she said.
"That does not excuse your behavior," said Mina in a stern voice. "You are
the princess of Venus and I expect you to behave properly at these parties."
"I wanted to play with Annika," said Gloria. "And the other kids said that
Aunt Raye was keeping her with her tonight."
Mina gazed down at her daughter. "It's true," she said. "Raye was not
happy with the note she got from your teacher the other day. The one about
you and Annika gluing another child's book closed. We both know that
Annika only did it because she was with you. Raye thought it would be a
good idea if she kept Annika with her and Chad tonight."
"But Annika's my best friend," said Gloria.
"I know she is," said Mina. "But Raye wants her daughter to stay out of
trouble just like I want you to stay out of it too."
"Why," asked Gloria.
"Because I love you and I want you to be good," said Mina sadly.
Gloria just folded her arms and didn't say anything. She was too mad.
"Go take off your dress and get ready for bed," said Mina. "For the next
two weeks you will be going to bed at 7:00."
"That's when babies go to bed," wailed Gloria. "Even Ariel doesn't go to
bed that early."
"Well I'm sorry," said Mina. "But that is your punishment for tonight's
behavior. Now get moving before you lose TV too."
Gloria pouted and went into her room. Once again she could not stay out of
trouble.
Chapter 7: Heather
"I have a favor to ask," said Asai to Mina one afternoon.
"What is it," asked Mina.
"My sister and her husband have to for out of town on business for a
month," said Asai. "Even though it is summer they are not able to take
Heather with them. She was wondering if we could keep Heather with us."
Mina thought for a moment. Heather was a year younger than Gloria and had
just turned six. She was a good kid. "I guess we could put her into
Gloria's room with her," she said. "It might be good for Gloria to have
her cousin around."
"Great," said Asai. "I'll tell my sister then that it is all right."
Mina went to go find Gloria to tell her the news. She found her outside in
the palace tree house. A couple of years ago it had been built for the
girls to play in. Gloria loved it and spent a lot of time in it.
"Gloria," she called and Gloria's head popped out.
"Hi Mommy," said Gloria.
"Come on down for a minute," said Mina. "I have to talk to you."
"Okay," said Gloria climbing down.
"I have got some news for you," said Mina. "Your cousin Heather will be
staying with us for a month."
"Where is she going to sleep," asked Gloria.
"In your room with you," said Mina. "You have a big bedroom. We will put
an extra bed in there."
"I don't want to share my room," said Gloria.
"Too bad," aid Mina. "Now I expect you to be nice to her. No tricks like
last time."
Gloria smiled. Last time she saw Heather she had taken her jacket away.
Gloria found a stapler in Amy's office and stapled the sleeves together.
When Heather tried to put her jacket on later she could not get her arms
through the sleeves and ended up ripping it. Mina used Gloria's allowance
to buy a new jacket. Gloria also locked Heather in the Gardener's shed and
did not let her out. Mina was furious and Gloria had to sit in the corner
for thirty minutes. Gloria knew she was supposed to be nice to her cousin
but Heather was so easy to antagonize.
"Do you understand young lady," said Mina.
"Yes Ma'am," said Gloria in her innocent voice.
Two days later Heather arrived. She was an exotically, beautiful child
with black hair and bright blue eyes. She was overjoyed to see her Uncle
Asai and jumped right into his arms.
"Hi Uncle Asai," said Heather. "Thank you for letting me stay."
"You are welcome," aid Asai giving his niece a kiss.
"Hi Aunt Mina," said Heather as she kissed Mina. "I am so happy to see you."
"I am happy to see you too," said Mina. "What a polite child she is," Mina
thought to herself. "I wish mine could be that polite."
"Hi Gloria," said Heather.
"Hi," said Gloria.
"You are not going to be mean like last time are you," asked Heather.
"She won't," said Mina firmly. "I have talked with her."
"Good," said Heather.
"Come on," said Gloria. "We can play with my friends."
A few minutes later Gloria took Heather to the palace garden. Annika,
Daisy, Ariel, and Maggie were playing with jump ropes. Maggie and Daisy
were patiently trying to teach Ariel. The four-year-old daughter of
Mercury was trying very hard but was not succeeding.
"Hi everyone," said Gloria. "I have my cousin Heather with me."
"Hi Heather," said Annika in delight. "Gloria said you were staying with
us for a while."
"I am," said Heather. She liked Annika. They were the same age and Annika
was just sweet. She liked the other girls too. Heather sometimes wished
that they were her cousins instead of Gloria.
"Do you know how to jump rope," asked Daisy.
"A little," said Heather as she picked up a rope. She was able to jump a
few times but then got caught in the rope.
"We are teaching Ariel," said Maggie.
"It's hard," said Ariel.
"Don't worry," said Rini coming up. "You will get the hang of it."
"Hi Rini," said Heather.
"Hi Heather," said Rini. "I am so glad you are here with us."
Heather smiled and continued to jump rope. Gloria watched her. "I'll
leave her alone today," she thought to herself. "But tomorrow I will do
something to have fun."
The next day Gloria took Heather to the tree house. She and Heather went
to the top.
"This is neat," said Heather. "Do the other kids play here too?"
"Yes," said Gloria. "But not as much as me."
"Why," asked Heather.
"I like it up here," said Gloria. "I come here if I don't want to see
anyone."
"Oh," said Heather. She looked around the palace grounds. While she was
looking Gloria dropped her hair bow to the ground.
"Oops," said Gloria. "I dropped my hair bow. I need to get it."
"Okay," said Heather not paying much attention.
Gloria climbed down. When she got to the bottom she pushed the ladder down.
"Hey," cried Heather. "What are you doing?"
Gloria just laughed and ran off.
"I am going to tell," shouted Heather but Gloria paid no attention. This
was the best trick she had played yet.
Gloria decided to look for Annika. She guessed Annika might be in her
favorite place. Gloria went to the palace pond and found Annika sitting by
it. She had taken off her shoes and was dangling her feet in the water.
On her lap was her drawing book with her markers by her side and she was
drawing pictures.
"Hi Annika," said Gloria and Annika looked up from her work.
"Hi," said Annika. "Where is Heather?"
"In the tree house," said Gloria and she began to laugh.
"What is so funny," asked Annika.
"I knocked the ladder down," said Gloria.
"You just left her up there," said Annika. "You are going to be in big
trouble."
"I know," said Gloria. "But it is so much fun doing things like this to her."
"I wish I had a cousin my age to play with," said Annika. "I think you are
lucky." Like Mina, Raye was an only child. She did have some cousins of
her own who had kids. Chad had a couple of siblings with children but they
were all older than Annika. Whenever Annika went to family reunions with
her parents her cousins treated her like a doll. Annika did not mind the
attention but she did wish there were someone to play with. She was always
glad to get back to the palace so she could be with her friends who were
like sisters.
"Heather is just fun to do things like that too," said Gloria.
"It's mean," said Annika. "And you will be in big trouble when your Mama
finds out."
"I thought I would find you here," said Raye coming up with a towel in her
hand.
"Hi Mama," said Annika.
"I have some free time from my duties this afternoon and thought it would
be nice to spend it with you," said Raye. "Would you like to go shopping?"
"Yes," said Annika in excitement.
"Good," said Raye. "Because you need some new clothes. Get your shoes on
and we will go."
Annika pulled her feet out of the water. Raye dried them off with the
towel and helped Annika put her shoes on.
"Gloria," said a sharp voice and everyone turned to see a very angry Mina
approaching. Heather was behind her in tears. "That was a mean thing you
did to Heather."
"What did she do," asked Raye.
"Took the ladder away while Heather was up in the tree," said Mina. "It's
a good thing Amy and Greg had gotten back from their walk with Ariel or
Heather would still be up there."
"I think we had better get going," said Raye scooping Annika up. "We will
see you later." Raye and Annika left quickly.
Mina walked up to Gloria and spanked her. "Apologize to your cousin right
now," she said.
"Sorry," said Gloria with tears in her eyes. Mina took Gloria by the hand
and they went up to their quarters.
"Now go to your room," said Mina. "You are to stay there until
dinnertime." Mina took Heather on her lap and comforted her. Gloria
stomped off to her bedroom. Can't anyone take a joke?
Dinnertime that night was in the palace dining hall with the King, Queen,
and all of the Scouts and Knights. Several times a week everyone gathered
together to have dinner as one big family. The other nights everyone chose
to have dinner alone with his or her families.
"I told you that you would get into trouble," said Annika said to Gloria.
"I can't believe you did that to your cousin," said Daisy. "That was so
mean."
"Shut up," said Gloria. She had spent a whole afternoon in her room and
was not in a good mood.
"You shut up," said Daisy.
"Cool it girls," said Rini. "Don't you think there has been enough trouble
today?"
"She's right," said Artemis. "Gloria, what you did was wrong and you
deserved your punishment."
Gloria sulked and finished her dinner.
Chapter 8: Silent Treatment
Gloria ran in panic. Tears were falling down her face. She knew she was
in big trouble. Gloria did not mean for Annika to get hurt. When she
tossed Annika's hat onto the ice she thought it would be funny if Annika
had slipped and landed on her bottom. She did not think the ice was going
to break and Annika was going to plunge through it. Gloria was frightened.
What if Annika died? Gloria would never forgive herself if that happened.
Right now she did not know what to do. She did not want to see either of
her parents right now. Gloria thought for a moment and then decided to go
to the Gates of Time. Rini and Maggie went there a number of times to see
Sailor Pluto. Maybe Sailor Pluto would comfort her.
Gloria made her way over to the Gates of Time. When she went in she saw
Sailor Pluto standing by the Time Portal. "Hello Gloria," said Sailor
Pluto. "I have been expecting you."
"You have," asked Gloria with tears running down her face.
"Yes," said Pluto. "I know what just happened."
"It was an accident," sobbed Gloria. "I didn't think Annika was going to
fall in the icy water."
Pluto knelt down and wrapped her arms around Gloria. Gloria rested her
head on Pluto's shoulder and sobbed hysterically. Pluto just held the
child until she calmed down.
"Is Annika going to be all right," sobbed Gloria.
"She will be," said Pluto.
"Good," said Gloria. "I don't want to see my mom right now."
"You have too," said Pluto in a firm yet gentle voice. "Hiding here is not
going to help you. You need to apologize to Annika. You will be punished
for what you did but your mommy and daddy both love you very much. Nothing
will change that."
"Do I really have to go," sobbed Gloria.
"They are looking for you now," said Pluto. "You should go so you will not
get into bigger trouble. Also if you do not show up your parents will worry."
"Okay," said Gloria reluctantly. "Can I come back soon?"
"You can come here anytime you need too," said Pluto.
"Thank you," said Gloria and she walked through the door to the palace.
She did not get very far when she saw her very angry mother approaching her.
"Gloria," said Mina and she went up to her daughter. "You are in big
trouble young lady," she said as she spanked Gloria.
"I'm sorry Mommy," sobbed Gloria.
"Tell that to Annika," said Mina. "You shouldn't throw people's things on
ice. Annika could have drowned."
"I did not mean for that to happen," said Gloria. "I was only playing a
joke."
"I told you sometimes your jokes go to far," said Mina. "Today it went
more than to far. I am really disappointed in you."
"Is Annika okay," asked Gloria.
"Rini and the other children pulled her out of the water," said Mina.
"Raye and Amy rushed her back to her quarters quickly so they could get her
into a warm bath. Hopefully she will be fine."
They got back to their quarters where Asai was waiting. "You found her,"
he said.
"Yes," said Mina. "We will take her to apologize to Annika later."
"Now to discuss your punishment," said Asai.
Gloria was grounded for two weeks. Except for school she was not allowed
to leave her quarters. Gloria for once did not complain about her
punishment. As far as she was concerned she deserved it.
That evening Mina and Asai took Gloria to apologize to Annika. Annika was
curled up on the couch in her mother's arms. She was wrapped in an
electric blanket but she was still shivering. Gloria saw that Annika was
very pale and her face and hands were covered with scratches.
"What do you say Gloria," said Mina in a stern voice.
"I'm sorry Annika," said Gloria in an ashamed voice.
Annika did not say anything. She turned around so that her back was turned
to Gloria.
"Annika," said Raye gently. "Gloria just apologized to you."
"I don't care," said Annika. "I don't want to talk to her ever again."
"Sweetheart you don't mean that," said Raye.
"Yes I do," shouted Annika. "I hate her and I don't ever want to talk to
her again. Tell her to go away."
"Annika I'm sorry," choked Gloria as tears rolled down her face. "Really I
am."
"Get out," screamed Annika. She grabbed a cushion off of the couch and
threw it at Gloria. "I hate you. Get out!"
Fearing that Annika was going to get to upset Raye quickly ushered Mina,
Asai, and Gloria to the door. "Don't worry," she said. "Annika will come
around. She is just stubborn like me."
"I am really sorry Aunt Raye," sobbed Gloria.
Raye patted Gloria on the head. "I know you are honey," she said. "Just
try to put yourself in Annika's place right now. She had a major fright
today. Just watch out for the tricks you play. Some of them are just not
funny."
"Are you okay," asked Mina as she motioned Asai to take Gloria back to
their quarters.
The bravery on Raye's face dropped. "I have been pretty shook up myself
today," she admitted. "I came pretty close to losing her today. If Rini
and the other children had not been there God knows what would have
happened. I have been holding Annika for most of the afternoon because I
just don't want to let her go right now."
"I am really sorry about this," said Mina tears falling rolling down her face.
"It's okay," said Raye giving her friend a hug.
"Gloria is being punished," said Mina.
"Mama," called Annika from the living room.
"I guess I had better get back to her," said Raye. "Thank you for stopping
by."
Mina walked back to her quarters. She felt so bad about what happened.
She was never this mean. Where did Gloria get this mean streak?
The next morning Venus was walking Gloria to the palace doors so she could
leave for school. She ran into Mars Knight.
"Good morning Chad," said Venus. "Where is Raye and Annika?"
"Annika has gotten sick so she won't be going anywhere today," said Mars
Knight. "Raye is taking at least the morning off to stay with her."
"It's all my fault," said Gloria.
"Hush," said Venus placing her hand on her daughter's head. "It's over and
done with now. We just need to move forward."
"Is Annika still mad at me," asked Gloria.
"I don't know," said Mars Knight. "She was feeling pretty miserable this
morning. None of us got much sleep last night. Annika kept having
nightmares. Raye finally ended up sleeping with her."
Gloria also had nightmares last night. She finally crawled into bed with
her parents too.
"You need to get to school now," said Venus. "Remember you come straight
home from school and you go right to our quarters."
"Yes Ma'am," said Gloria.
Venus kissed her daughter goodbye. Gloria ran out the door and saw the
other kids were already out there. "Hi everyone," she said.
"Hi Gloria," said Rini. No one else said anything.
"Hi," said Gloria to them but no one answered.
"I am afraid they are not talking to you," said Rini softly.
"Then why are you," asked Gloria.
"Because I am older," said Rini.
The day was unbearable. Hope, Faith and Ariel had told the entire second
grade what had happened to Annika so no would speak to Gloria. Recess was
spent just walking around the playground because no one would play with
her. Gloria could not wait to get home. Even Maggie and Madelyn would not
speak to her.
That night in Gloria lay in bed crying. Artemis came in and sat down on
the bed next to her. "Are you all right," he asked.
"Oh Artemis I really messed things up this time," sobbed Gloria. "No one
will speak to me now. I am all alone."
"No you are not," said Artemis. "You have me and you have your parents."
"He's right," said Mina coming in. She sat down on the bed and gathered
Gloria into her arms. "Everyone is just a little upset with you right now.
They'll get over it."
Gloria did not say anything. She just cried on her mother's shoulder.
Mina stroked her daughter's long hair and held her tightly.
Gloria finally calmed down a little. "I will never play a trick again for
as long as I live," she said.
"Yes you will," said Mina. "You just have to make sure they are harmless
tricks that won't hurt anyone."
"Mommy please stay with me until I go to sleep," pleaded Gloria.
"Of course," said Mina as she tucked her daughter in. She lay down next to
Gloria and stayed by herself until she went to sleep. Maybe Gloria has
learned her lesson finally.
A few days later Gloria rushed ahead of everyone to get home from school.
She could not bear it. Annika was back in school and she still was not
talking to Gloria. Rini was still the only one talking to her. Gloria was
very lonely right now. She decided it she got back to the palace early
enough she might be able to talk to Sailor Pluto before being restricted to
her quarters. Right now Gloria just had to see another friendly face.
Gloria got to the Gates of Time and went in. Sailor Pluto was there
waiting for her. "Hello Gloria," she said. "I have been expecting you."
"Hi Aunt Setsuna," said Gloria.
Pluto knelt down in front of Gloria. "You are going through a hard time
right now aren't you."
Gloria burst into tears. "Everyone hates me now," she sobbed. "No one
will speak to me except for Rini."
"Don't worry," said Pluto. "It won't be too much longer before everyone
comes around."
"I wish I never threw Annika's hat onto the ice," said Gloria.
"Well you did," said Pluto. "And you cannot change that."
"I will never play a mean trick again," sobbed Gloria. "If only everyone
would talk to me again."
"They will," said Pluto. "Very soon. Now you had better go before your
mother realizes that you are not in your quarters."
"Okay," said Gloria rubbing the tears out of her eyes.
"Just give everyone a couple of days," said Pluto with a smile.
"Thank you," said Gloria as she left.
A couple of days later Gloria and her mother were walking toward the palace
door so she could leave for school. They ran into Mars and Annika.
"Hi Gloria," said Annika.
"Annika," said Gloria.
Annika walked up to Gloria. She looked at her for a minute and then
slapped her on the shoulder. "Tag," she said. "You're it." Annika took
off and Gloria ran after her. She felt happy for the first time in days.
Annika was talking to her again.
Chapter 9: A New Friend
One Saturday Gloria and Annika decided to go into town and get some ice
cream. It was a beautiful spring day and both girls were wearing new
spring hats.
"Chocolate, my favorite," said Gloria as she licked her ice cream.
"I like strawberry better," said Annika who was taking dainty licks.
"At least it is not a school day," said Gloria.
"What do you want to do when we get back to the palace," asked Annika.
"Let's play that game your mom got you the other day," suggested Gloria.
"Okay," said Annika.
Suddenly a strong wind blew and Gloria's hat flew off. "Oh no," she
wailed. "I have to get it."
"I'm coming," said Annika following Gloria. The two little girls ran after
the hat. It went over a wall.
"Oh no," said Annika. "Now you will never get it back."
"Yes I will," said Gloria. "This is the wall that surrounds the old
people's home. I can just go in and get it."
The two girls went to the front gate. It was open. Gloria and Annika ran
around the wall and found the hat. Suddenly they heard a soft singing.
The girls looked up and saw it was an old woman sitting on a porch.
"Hello my children," she said with a friendly smile. "Why don't you come
over and visit with me?"
"Let's go," said Gloria to Annika. "She seems nice."
"No," said Annika shyly. "I want to go home."
"I want to talk to her," said Gloria.
"You should not talk to strangers," hissed Annika but Gloria didn't pay any
attention. She found herself drawn toward this sweet old lady.
"Excuse me," said Gloria to a nurse. "Who is that lady over there?'
"Her name is Ella," said the nurse. "She is one of our oldest residents
here."
"Is she nice," asked Gloria.
"Yes come and visit with her," said the nurse. "She just adores children."
"Okay," said Gloria. She turned toward Annika. "Are you coming?"
"No," said Annika in her soft shy voice. "I am going home." With that she
turned and ran out of the yard.
"My friend is very shy," said Gloria.
"It's okay," laughed the nurse. "What is your name?"
"My name is Gloria," said Gloria.
"Well Gloria," said the nurse. "Come and meet Ms. Ella."
Gloria followed the nurse to the old lady. "Ms. Ella," said the nurse. "I
have a visitor for you. This is Gloria."
"Well hello my dear," said Ms. Ella. "Thank you for coming to see me."
"You are welcome," said Gloria as she sat down next to the old lady. The
nurse quietly slipped away.
"Tell me Gloria," said Ms. Ella. "How old are you."
"I am eight," said Gloria.
"I must say you are a pretty child," said Ms. Ella. But you look like a
real spitfire with that red hair."
Gloria blushed. "I am," she admitted. "I get into trouble a lot. My
mother tells me I need to watch my manners."
"You remind me of my oldest daughter," said Ms. Ella. "She was one of the
rudest, most obnoxious children that ever set foot on this earth but
underneath that attitude she cared very deeply for her friends and family."
Gloria thought of Annika. She cared deeply for her. "How many children do
you have," she asked.
"I had six children," said Ms. Ella. "All of them are gone now."
"Gone," asked Gloria.
"Yes," said Ms. Ella. "I outlived my husband and my children."
"How old are you," asked Gloria and then she blushed. "I'm sorry. My
mother tells me I shouldn't ask an adult her age."
"That's okay," said Ms. Ella with a laugh. "I don't mind telling. I was
eighty-nine years old when the dormancy period came. Because we slept for
a thousand years that made me one thousand eighty-nine years old when
Neo-Queen Serenity woke us up. I am over one thousand one hundred and
fifteen years old."
"Wow," said Gloria. Her own mother looked very young but she was also over
a thousand years old because of the dormancy period. "My mother was very
young when the dormancy period hit."
"A lot of the young mothers out there were," said Ms. Ella. "Only those
born during after the dormancy period show their true age."
"Didn't your children have kids," asked Gloria.
"Yes," said Mrs. Ella. "I have many grandchildren but they all have their
own lives now."
"Don't they come and see you," asked Gloria.
"No," said Ms. Ella.
"How sad," said Gloria.
"It is," said Ms. Ella. "Do you have a large family Gloria?"
"I live at the palace," said Gloria. "I have my mom and dad but all of the
other kids there are like family to me. Their moms and dads are like aunts
and uncles."
"You must be the daughter of one of those beautiful warriors," said Ms. Ella.
"I am," said Gloria. "Sailor Venus is my mother."
"The Sailor Scout of love," said Ms. Ella. "I remember those Sailor Scouts
were only fourteen when they started defending the earth. I had some
admiration for them."
"How come," asked Gloria.
"They gave up the lives of being ordinary teenagers to protect the earth,"
said Ms. Ella. "Now one of them is the queen and the rest are her
guardians. Whenever one of them had a child it was all over the news."
"Really," asked Gloria.
"Yes," said Ms. Ella. "I remember when each of you were born."
"I did not know that our births were so important," said Gloria.
"Of course they were," said Ms. Ella. "The Sailor Scouts are very
important to us. When they had children the whole world celebrated."
"Do you remember every war the Scouts fought," asked Gloria.
"I sure do," said Ms. Ella. "You will learn about them in history classes
when you get older. They were scary wars but we always knew the Sailor
Scouts would win for us."
"You did," asked Gloria.
"They are strong," said Ms. Ella. "And the love they had for each other
was stronger than sisterly love."
"All of us kids at the palace are like sisters," said Gloria. "The
daughter of Sailor Mars is my best friend. We do a lot together."
"Cherish that friendship," said Ms. Ella. "A special friend like that is
hard to come by."
"I will," said Gloria. "Can I come and see you again?"
"You can come anytime," said Ms. Ella.
When Gloria got back to the palace she ran into Sailor Jupiter. "Where
were you," she demanded. "Your mother is starting to worry."
"I don't have to tell you," said Gloria in a rude voice.
"You know something Gloria," said Jupiter. "If Daisy were as rude as you
are she would be permanently grounded."
Gloria did not say anything. She ran upstairs to her quarters and saw her
parents were already there.
"Where were you," asked Mina. "Annika got back almost two hours ago. I
was getting worried."
"I met this really neat lady at the old people's home," said Gloria. "I
visited her for a while. I really like her."
"You spent all of this time visiting an old lady," asked Mina in surprise.
Her daughter rarely seemed to care about anyone.
"Yes," said Gloria. "Her husband and children are all gone and her
grandchildren do not visit her. She was already old when you all went to
sleep for a long time. She is really nice. She told me I could come visit
her anytime. Can I?"
"Sure," said Mina. "But next time I am coming with you. I would like to
meet her first."
"Okay," said Gloria,
Three days later Mina and Gloria went to the nursing home to see Ms. Ella.
She was delighted to see Gloria.
"Hello my child," said Ms. Ella. "I am so glad you came back to visit."
"This is my mother," said Gloria pointing to Mina.
Mina held out her hand. "It is a pleasure to meet you," she said. "Gloria
has told me a lot already."
"I must say you have a charming daughter here," said Ms. Ella.
"Really," said Mina in surprise. "I would like to see some of that charm."
"Don't worry about that," said Ms. Ella with a laugh. "My oldest daughter
was a lot like Gloria but she did okay for herself."
"Glad to hear it," said Mina placing a hand on her daughter's head.
"I remember when this child was born," said Ms. Ella. "I remember when all
of them were born from the daughter of the Queen to the daughter of Sailor
Mercury. What happy occasions they all were. It made me think of the
times all of my children were born."
Mina smiled. The whole world did rejoice when the scouts' daughters were
born. They were special times.
"Ms. Ella," said Gloria. "Have you always lived in Japan?"
"Yes I have," said Ms. Ella. "But I have visited many places in the world.
I hope one day you will too."
"She has done a little travelling with us," said Mina. "We took her to
England when she was three but she does not remember much."
"I hope you will let your daughter visit me often," said Ms. Ella. "She is
giving my life some meaning again."
"Of course," said Mina feeling proud of her daughter.
The next three weeks Gloria visited Ms. Ella as much as she could. Ms.
Ella was always delighted to see the child. Mina felt a lot of pride for
her daughter. She never imagined her daughter being kind to a lonely old
lady.
"Why do you go and see her so much," Annika asked one day. She and Gloria
were sitting on Gloria's bed playing a game.
"She's neat," said Gloria. "She tells really great stories. Want to come
next time?"
"No," said Annika whose shyness kept her from seeing this old lady.
"She's really nice Annika," said Gloria.
"You told me that," said Annika. "But I do not want to see her."
"Hi girls," said Mina coming into the room. "Annika you need to go home now."
"Okay," said Annika climbing down from the bed. "Bye Gloria."
"Bye," said Gloria.
Mina sat down on the bed. "The nursing home just called," she said. "Ms.
Ella is dying and wants to see you."
"Dying," said Gloria. "She can't die."
"Darling she is old," said Mina. "Everyone dies at one point. Now let's
go and see her. We cannot ignore the last wish of a dying woman."
Gloria jumped down off her bed and ran for the door. "I'm coming Ms.
Ella," she said.
When they got to the nursing home Gloria and Mina were taken to Ms. Ella's
room. She was lying on her bed hooked up to monitors.
"Ms. Ella," said Gloria walking up to the bed.
"Gloria," said Ms. Ella. "It looks like my time is near."
"Mom told me you wanted to see me," said Gloria.
"I did," said Ms. Ella. "There is a box on the table over there. Please
get it."
Gloria went over and got the box. She brought it over to the bed. Ms.
Ella opened it and took out a bracelet. "I want you to have this," she
said to Gloria.
"It's pretty," said Gloria looking at it. The bracelet had rhinestones all
over it.
"That's an extravagant gift for a little girl," said Mina looking at the
bracelet.
"I want to give it to her," said Ms. Ella. "This child gave my life some
meaning for the last several weeks. It is my token of appreciation.
Please let me give it to her."
"Very well," said Mina.
"Thank you for being such a good friend," said Ms. Ella. "I have cherished
these last three weeks."
"Me too," said Gloria as a tear rolled down her face.
"Be good my child," said Ms. Ella. The heart monitor went dead. She was
gone. Gloria burst into tears. She turned around and flung herself into
her mother's arms and wept. Mina just held her daughter until she calmed
down.
That night Gloria could not sleep. She gazed out at the stars. In her
hand she clutched the bracelet Ms. Ella had given her. Mina came into the
room. "How are you doing," she asked.
"I feel sad," said Gloria.
"It's okay to feel sad my dear," said Mina.
"I am going to miss her," said Gloria.
"I know you are," said Mina putting her arms around her daughter. "But
just think how much happiness you gave that old lady for the last several
weeks. Because of you she died happy and I am very proud of you for that."
Gloria did not answer she rested her head on her mother's shoulder and
began to cry again. Mina held Gloria close. "You know what you can do,"
she asked.
"Tell me," said Gloria.
"You can pick out a star for Ms. Ella," said Mina. "Every time you look at
that star you can talk to her."
"Really," asked Gloria.
"Yes," said Mina. "Would you lie to pick one out?"
Gloria gazed up at the stars. Her eyes caught a very bright one. "I like
that one," she said pointing to it.
"Then that will be Ms. Ella's star," said Mina.
"I feel better now," said Gloria.
"Ms. Ella will always live in here," said Mina pointing to Gloria's heart.
"Now you can talk to her star."
Gloria lay down in her mother's lap and gazed at the star. "I promise,"
she said to herself. "I will never forget Ms. Ella."
Chapter 10: The Symbol of Venus
"We had another rough day young lady," said Mina as she tucked her daughter
in for the night. "I do not want another note from your teacher tomorrow
about you being rude to her."
"All right," said Gloria in a sulky voice.
"We are going to work on these manners and your attitude," said Mina
firmly. "From now on when you bring a note home from school about your
behavior you will be grounded."
"Fine," said Gloria crossly.
"Good night Darling," said Mina pecking a kiss on Gloria's cheek. "I love
you."
"Love you too," said Gloria.
Mina left the room. Gloria was now nine and had gotten a major attitude
lately. She was rude to her teachers and everyone else. She defied
authority everyday. Mina was almost at her wits end with Gloria. She
discussed it with Lita who pointed out that Gloria had at least stopped
playing mean tricks on people. That was true. Annika falling into the
frozen lake that time had taught Gloria a sharp lesson. Since then the
mean tricks stopped but the rudeness and now this attitude was still there.
"Did we lay down the law again," asked Asai.
"I hope so," said Mina with a sigh.
"We'll keep working on her," said Asai. "That is all we can do."
Mina sat back resting her head on her husband's shoulder. She loved her
daughter so much and it pained her that Gloria was the way she was. Mina
also knew that time to tell Gloria of her destiny as a Sailor Chibi Scout
was near. Would Gloria be willing to accept that?
Mina got up and went to Gloria's room. The child was already asleep. Mina
noticed a glow on Gloria's forehead. She walked over to Gloria and gently
lifted her hair off of her forehead.
The glow was the symbol of Venus.
Two days later Venus was heading back to her quarters. The Scouts all had
a meeting with the Queen and it was agreed that it was time to awaken the
Chibi Scouts. Luna produced the transformation pens. Venus had Gloria's
in her hand. Rini was informed that she, as Sailor Chibi Moon, would be
the leader of the Chibi Scouts. Venus had foggy memories of Sailor Chibi
Venus coming to the past a couple of times. The child was obnoxious but
she was a good Sailor Scout. Of course back then Venus did not know Gloria
as well as she did now. Maybe being a Sailor Chibi Scout would be good for
Gloria. It might help with her discipline.
"Okay Gloria," she said as she stopped outside her quarters. "Let's see
how you take this."
End of Part 2. Part 3 will be Daisy's story.
again I love e-mail so please send me any feedback, comments, or
suggestions to AngelRaye2@aol.com
Also please check out my web site at
http://angelrayeschibiscouts.homestead.com/angelraye.html
Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon. I only created the Chibi Scouts
except for Rini.
Our Daughters
Part 2: Gloria
By
Angel Raye
Chapter One: The Announcement
"So Amy," said Mina. "Can you tell me why I have been feeling so sick
lately?"
"I sure can," said Amy. "You are going to have a baby."
"A baby," gasped Mina. "Of course. I am going to have a daughter." The
thousand years of dormancy had left everyone with hazy memories but Mina
vaguely remembered a little girl, claiming to be her daughter, coming back
to the 20th century to see her. Sailor Pluto allowed everyone to revive
their memories except the ones of their daughters. She felt it would be a
good idea if everyone could have their children without memories of the
past influencing them.
"Well, yours will make her appearance in about eight months," said Amy.
Mina was excited. She was the fourth one to have a child. Neo-Queen
Serenity had Rini about four-and-a-half years ago. Jupiter and Pluto each
had a daughter a few months ago. Daisy and Maggie will be about one year
older than Mina's child will.
"I have to tell Asai," said Mina. "He has wanted us to have a child. We
have been trying for a while."
"Well I figured it was about time for you," said Amy. "I remember your
daughter being next after Pluto's and Jupiter's so I knew you were next."
"Asai is going to be so happy," said Mina. "I cannot wait to tell him."
"Then you had better go and tell him now," said Amy with a laugh. "I'll go
and tell the king and queen. You know how Serenity always looks for a
reason to throw a party."
"Then I guess there will be a celebration tonight," said Mina as she left
Amy's office.
Artemis was outside the door waiting for her. "What did Amy say," he asked.
Mina scooped Artemis up and he jumped on her shoulder. "There is going to
be a new member of the family soon," she said.
"Really," said Artemis in delight. "You are going to have a baby?"
"Yes," said Mina. "But not a word out of you until I tell Asai. I want
him to hear it from me."
"Very well," said Artemis. "I promise my lips are sealed."
Asai was waiting for her in their quarters. "So," he asked. "What is
wrong with you? Why have you been so sick lately?"
"I am fine Asai," said Mina kissing her husband. "I do need to
congratulate you though."
"Congratulate me," said Asai in surprise. "For what?"
"You are going to be a father," said Mina.
"I am what," asked Asai in shock.
"You are going to be a father," said Mina.
"That is so wonderful," said Asai happily. "When?"
"Amy said in about eight months," said Mina. "So we have time to convert
our spare room into a nursery."
"I'll get started on it right away," said Asai as he kissed Mina. "I
cannot wait until the baby comes."
That evening there was a party to celebrate Mina's pregnancy. All of the
Scouts and Knights were there.
"A toast," said King Endymion. "To the newest member of the family."
"May she be healthy and happy," said Neo-Queen Serenity.
"Congratulations," said everyone.
Serenity brought her daughter, Rini, over. Rini was pouting. "Another
baby," she said.
"Darling," said Serenity. "What are you supposed to tell Mina?"
"Congratulations," said Rini as she gave Mina some flowers.
"Thank you Pumpkin," said Mina taking the flowers. "I know you will be a
great big sister to her."
Rini smiled a little smile. Serenity leaned over and whispered to Mina.
"I am afraid she has been feeling a little jealous because of all of these
babies that are coming."
"Can't blame her," said Mina. "She was the center of attention for four
years and now all of us our having babies."
"Congratulations Mina," said Raye as she and Lita came over. "Chad and I
are going to start trying for one of our own."
"Just get all of the sleep you can," said Lita winking at Mina. "Because
once that child comes you will never get a full night sleep."
"Don't tell me that," said Mina with a groan.
"I am afraid she is telling the truth," said Serenity. "I rarely got a
good night sleep after Rini was born. Fortunately after she turned one she
started sleeping all night."
"Being a mother is worth it," said Lita. "I really enjoy Daisy."
"Just as long as she is healthy I will put up with anything," said Mina,
Chapter 2: The Birth
Mina woke up feeling uncomfortable. She realized that she was having
contractions. Yes it was about time for the baby to come along. She
reached over and shook Asai. "Asai," she whispered. "I think it's time."
"Huh," said Asai sleepily.
"It's time," said Mina.
Asai sat up suddenly. "It's time," he asked.
"Yes," said Mina. "Get Amy in here quickly."
A few minutes later Amy was in Mina's quarters giving her an examination.
"Yes it looks like this baby is ready to come," said Amy. "It's not going
to be too long. We need to get you to my office immediately. "
Amy and Asai helped Mina to her feet. They left the quarters and headed
toward Amy's office. On the way Mina gave a loud cry.
"What is it," asked Asai in alarm.
"My water broke," said Mina.
"Oh we have got to hurry," said Amy as she sped up.
The baby was definitely ready to come. Amy barely had Mina positioned on
the birthing bed when the baby's head came out.
"Just give a good hard push Mina," said Amy. "This baby is ready."
"Okay," said Mina and she pushed hard.
"I got her," said Amy as a loud wailing filled the room.
"Oh thank goodness," said Mina sinking back against the pillow. Amy
wrapped the baby in a blanket and handed her to Mina. Mina gazed lovingly
down at her. A mop of red hair covered her head. Her eyes were blue like
Mina's. Mina rocked her trying to get her to stop crying.
"She's beautiful," said Asai. "She sure has lung power doesn't she?"
"I hate to say this but she is definitely the noisiest one so far," said
Amy with a laugh.
"I don't care," said Mina. "She is healthy and beautiful."
"That she is," said Asai kissing Mina.
Mina gazed down at the screaming baby. "Gloria," she said. "I love you."
The next morning Asai spread the word about Gloria. Neo-Queen Serenity and
the rest of the Scouts came to visit.
"Just look at her," said Serenity in delight. "She is so beautiful."
"She is so loud," said Rini putting her hands over her ears.
"Rini," said Serenity in a soft warning voice putting her hand on her
daughter's head to quiet her."
"I know she is a screamer," said Mina. "Hopefully she will not always be
like this."
"She is precious," said Mars who just recently found out she was pregnant.
"Look Daisy," said Jupiter holding up her toddler. "Look at the baby."
Daisy giggled and looked at Mina's baby. "She is so beautiful," said Jupiter.
"I cannot get over that red hair," said Saturn.
"Me either," said Uranus. "She is going to be a fiery one."
"And strong," said Neptune whose finger was being gripped by Gloria.
"Mina," said Pluto. "She is going to be a handful but you will love her
and she will love you."
"Listen to her Mina," said Mars. "She knows what she is talking about.
She told me I am going to have a difficult pregnancy and so far she has
been right. I have been sick twenty-four hours a day."
"I am ready for whatever challenges come my way," said Mina.
Chapter 3: A Little Terror
Venus was on her way to the nursery. She had just gotten a call from Palla
and Ves, the palace nannies that Gloria was causing too much trouble and
needed to be disciplined by her parents. Venus was more than just a little
annoyed. The Scouts had been in the middle of a meeting with the Queen
when she was called. She wondered what Gloria was up too.
When she got to the nursery she saw Mars's two-year-old daughter Annika
clutching her favorite stuffed dog and sobbing. Jupiter's four-year-old
daughter Daisy was trying to comfort her. Pluto's four-year-old daughter
Maggie was holding an ice pack to her arm. Neptune and Uranus's
three-year-old twins, Hope and Faith were playing some rowdy game. Palla
was holding Saturn's one-year-old daughter Madelyn and Ves was feeding
Mercury's infant daughter Ariel. Venus looked around and saw her
three-year-old daughter Gloria sitting in the corner pouting.
"What is going on," demanded Venus.
"You daughter is not keeping her hands to herself," said Palla. "She hit
Annika on the head with a block, bit Maggie on the arm and now she just
pushed Madelyn against the door. She is not listening to us at all."
"Do we need a spanking," asked Venus.
"No," said Gloria.
"The you had a better shape up," said Venus sternly.
"I don't have to listen to anyone," said Gloria rudely.
"That is another thing," said Ves. "She has been talking back to us all
day and she has stuck her tongue out at us a couple of times."
"I will talk to her right now," said Venus and she knelt down in front of
her daughter. "Now listen young lady," she said sternly. "I do not want
anymore bad reports about your behavior today. If I have to come back here
you will go straight to bed after dinner tonight."
"But," Gloria started to say but Venus put her hand over her child's mouth.
"No buts," she said firmly. "You have a choice. You can either behave
yourself for the rest of the day or you can get an early bedtime tonight.
Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes," said Gloria in a sulky voice.
"I have to go back to work," said Venus kissing her daughter on the
forehead. "I love you and you behave yourself."
"Bye," said Gloria.
Venus walked over to Palla and Ves. "I talked to her," she told them. "If
she gives you any more problems just let me know."
"Thank you Venus," said Palla.
"Not a problem," said Venus and she stopped in front of Annika who was
still sobbing. "You okay honey?"
"I want Mama," sobbed Annika.
"You will see her in a little while," said Venus patting Annika on the
head. She left the nursery and headed back toward the conference room.
Gloria was a major handful and she was usually the one who got into trouble
in the nursery. It was just another typical day.
Chapter 4: A Day Out
"I don't want to wear a jacket," whined Gloria.
"Then I guess you will stay here and the rest of us will go out," said
Mina. It was Saturday and Mina and Asai decided to go on a picnic and to
the zoo. Raye, Chad and Annika along with Lita, Ken, and Daisy were going
to be coming. Mina had been looking forward to this day but right now
Gloria was being stubborn. It was a cool day and she hated wearing jackets.
"I don't want to stay here," said Gloria.
"Then put on your jacket," said Mina. "Amy is staying here today so I am
sure she can keep an eye on you." Amy's daughter Ariel was only a year old
and was teething big time. Because of that she was cranky all the time so
Amy decided to keep her in that day.
Gloria pouted and wriggled into her jacket. A knock at the door indicated
the others had arrived so Mina let them in.
"Gloria," said Annika bounding up to her. Her mother had put a jacket and
a hat on her since she was getting over an ear infection.
"Hi," said Gloria giving Annika a hug. She loved Annika.
"Hi Gloria," said Daisy waving to her.
Gloria just waved back. She and Daisy were always getting into fights.
"Are you ready," said Raye who did not tolerate lateness.
"We are," said Mina. "Are you ready Artemis?"
"Of course I am," said the white cat.
"Gloria was just being on the stubborn side this morning," said Asai.
"They all go through that," said Lita with a laugh.
"Gloria is just permanently stubborn," said Mina and everyone laughed as
they left Mina's quarters.
At the entrance they met Neo-Queen Serenity. "Have a great time," she said.
"Are you sure you do not want to come with us," asked Raye putting her arm
around her best friend.
"I'm sure," said Serenity with a smile. "Darien and I are going to do
something special today anyway."
"That's good," said Lita. "Don't look so sad. Rini will come back to you
soon." Rini was off in the 20th century training as Sailor Chibi Moon.
The Scouts knew that Serenity was worried because Rini was back during the
time they were battling the death busters. Even though they all knew Rini
was going to be all right a mother always missed her child when she was gone.
"Thank you," said Serenity.
The girls had a great time that day. Annika loved watching the monkeys so
Raye and Chad had to keep taking her back to see them. Daisy wanted to try
boxing with the kangaroos but Lita said absolutely not. Gloria was running
around every where so Mina and Asai were just exhausted by the time
lunchtime came around. They chose a spot in the picnic area that was by a
pond.
"No Annika it is too cold for you to dip your feet in," said Raye firmly to
her daughter. Annika wanted to take her shoes and socks off so she could
wade in the water. Annika pouted but did not press the matter further.
"How do you do it," asked Mina.
"Do what," asked Raye.
"Gloria would still be arguing with me," said Mina. "How do you get Annika
not to argue."
"She knows better," said Raye.
"You have to remember something Mina," said Lita. "Annika and Gloria have
completely different personalities. Annika is just very cooperative.
Daisy is a pretty good child but she can be a handful at times."
"Speaking of handfuls," said Ken. "Look at our kids now."
Everyone looked and saw Gloria and Daisy wrestling with each other. Annika
was watching with wide eyes.
"Girls stop it," said Lita in a sharp voice as she went over and pulled
Daisy to her feet.
"Gloria took my hair ribbon," said Daisy.
"That does not mean you can fight," said Lita crossly. "Come and have a
time out."
"You know you are not supposed to take things that do not belong to you,"
said Mina to Gloria.
"I was just playing," said Gloria angrily.
"Time out," said Mina dragging Gloria by the arm.
"I didn't do anything," Annika said quickly.
"I know," said Raye. "Come and have lunch."
After everyone ate and the punishments were up, Gloria and Daisy ran off to
play some more. Annika had lain down with her head on Raye's lap and had
fallen asleep.
"I guess I am not moving for a while," said Raye gently stroking her
daughter's hair.
"You're lucky," said Lita. "Mine has outgrown naps since she started
Kindergarten."
"Gloria stopped taking naps when she was one," said Mina. "I still have a
hard time getting her down at night too."
Everyone laughed. Poor Mina had not had a decent night sleep since Gloria
was born.
"Look," Gloria said to Daisy. "That tree looks easy to climb."
"Let's go then," said Daisy and the two girls began climbing.
"Girls," said Artemis. "You should not be climbing the tree. You could
fall and hurt yourself."
"You are not Daddy Artemis," said Gloria.
"I know I am not but I still have to watch over you," said Artemis with a
sigh.
"Race you to the top," said Gloria and the two girls giggled and began to
climb faster.
"I am going to beat you," said Daisy. "I'm bigger."
"I can move fast," said Gloria.
"That is high enough," said Mina coming up to them.
"Why," said Gloria with a pout.
"Because you could fall and hurt yourself," said Mina. "You girls are too
young to be climbing up high trees."
"That's what I tried to tell them," said Artemis.
"Rats," said Gloria climbing down. "You never let me have fun."
"What about today," asked Mina. "Didn't you have fun today?"
"Yes," said Gloria.
"Then stop acting so deprived," said Mina taking her daughter by the hand
and bringing her back to the group. Annika was still asleep on her
mother's lap.
"Are those two monkeys climbing tree," asked Lita.
"They would have gone to the top if I had not stopped them," said Mina.
"Face it Mina," said Lita. "We both have a couple of daredevils."
"Then they will have no problems when it is time to be scouts," said Mina
and everyone nodded in agreement.
That night Mina got Gloria ready for bed. Despite the difficulties Mina
had enjoyed spending the day with her family and friends.
"Mommy," said Gloria.
"Yes Darling," said Mina picking up the book Gloria had chosen for her
bedtime story.
"I had fun today," said Gloria.
"So did I Gloria," said Mina.
"Even though I was bad once," asked Gloria.
"Yes," said Mina.
"Good," said Gloria.
"We just need to remember to listen and follow rules," said Mina. "I do
not make up these rules to be mean. I make them up because I love you and
I want you to be safe."
"Oh," said Gloria. "I love you too Mommy."
"I know you do," said Mina kissing her little girl on the cheek "Now let's
read you your story." Gloria snuggled down into her mother's arms and
listened to the story. Then Mina tucked her in for the night.
"Mommy," said Gloria as Mina kissed her goodnight. "Will you rub my back?"
"Of course," said Mina. That always got Gloria to settle down quickly.
Mina lay down next to Gloria and rubbed her back until she was fast asleep.
Mina kissed her daughter again feeling the overwhelming love she felt for
Gloria.
Chapter 5: Kindergarten Performance
Gloria crumpled up her paper in frustration. It was during playtime and
when Gloria asked Annika what she wanted to do she said she wanted to draw.
Gloria reluctantly agreed to draw with her but she always made mistakes.
She looked at Annika and saw she had drawn a picture of the palace with
people standing in front of it.
"Who are they," Gloria asked pointing to Annika's picture.
"Me and Mama, and Daddy," said Annika.
"Let's do something else," said Gloria.
"I don't want to," said Annika in her soft, sweet voice. "You can go and
play with Hope and Faith if you want."
Gloria was about to that when Mrs. James rang the bell for clean up time.
Annika obediently started putting away the markers and crayons. Gloria
just stalled. She hated cleaning up.
"Come on Gloria," said Mrs. James. "You have to clean up."
"I don't want to," said Gloria.
"Would you like a time-out," asked Mrs. James. Gloria sighed and started
helping Annika. Once the room was clean the children sat down on the
carpet. As usual Gloria, Annika, Faith, and Hope sat together.
"Now Children," said Mrs. James. "Parent night is coming up. The
Kindergarten classes are going to do two things for that night. We will
put up all of our art work for the parents to see."
Annika looked delighted when Mrs. James said that. She was good at art and
loved to have it on display. Gloria was not very happy to hear that. She
was not good at art.
"Our class will also be singing songs for the parents," said Mrs. James.
Gloria was glad to hear that. She loved singing. Her mother said she got
her love of it from her. Annika on the other hand looked terrified.
"Gloria," said Mrs. James. "How would you like the sing a part by yourself?"
"Yes," said Gloria in excitement. "I would really like that."
"Okay," said Mrs. James. "Now who else would like a chance to sing by
themselves?" Several hands went in the air.
Gloria did not pay attention anymore. She was too excited.
When the girls got home from school Gloria jumped right into her mother's
arms.
"Well," said Venus. "It must have been a good day."
"It was," said Gloria. "I get to sing by myself for parents' night."
"That's wonderful Darling," said Venus giving Gloria a hug. "I knew I had
passed something good onto you."
"They are going to have art too," said Gloria. "But I don't care about that."
"I do," said Annika softly who was snuggled in her mother's arms. "I just
wish I did not have to sing in front of people."
"Oh Annika it is not that bad," said Mars. "I always loved getting up in
front of people and singing."
"You weren't shy Mars," said Mercury. "Annika is."
"It won't be so bad," said Serenity patting Annika on the head.
"Well I cannot wait," said Gloria. "I am going to do so good."
"A star is born," said Venus and everyone laughed.
The next couple of weeks the Kindergarten was busy. Artwork was being done
so it could be displayed for the parents. The children were also
practicing their favorite songs to perform. Gloria and the few other
children who had solos practiced very hard. Gloria could not wait until
she was able to perform.
Annika worked hard with her art. She did not want to sing in front of the
parents. Hope also worked hard on the art but she also had a solo. Faith
just did not care one way or the other. She preferred outside games.
On Parents night Gloria took her parents around the classroom. She was
excited.
"Slow down Gloria," said Mina with a laugh. "I know you are going to do
great."
"Of course I am," said Gloria. "I have been practicing."
"We know," said Asai. Gloria had been walking around the palace for the
last couple of weeks singing the songs that was going to be performed tonight.
"I want to talk to your teacher for a minute," said Mina and she walked
over to Mrs. James who was talking to Haruka and Micharu about the twins.
Raye and Chad were looking at Annika's artwork with her. Pride was in
Raye's eyes.
"So I guess you are here to talk about Gloria," said Mrs. James.
"Yes," said Mina. "I am more concerned about her behavior than anything
else."
"Her work is fine," said Mrs. James. "She does have an attitude problem
though. She does not like authority at all and has no respect for it."
"She has always been like that," said Mina looking over at Gloria who was
showing some of her work to Asai. "I am working on it at home and you can
count on me to help you here."
"I appreciate that," said Mrs. James. "I am also concerned about she can
be toward the other children."
"Gloria does have a mean streak," admitted Mina. "She loves playing tricks
on others and they are not always nice."
"She has a few friends," said Mrs. James. "But most of them are through
Annika and the twins."
"Annika is very sweet," said Mina. "Gloria loves her."
"I can tell," said Mrs. James.
"Just let me know if Gloria gets too out of hand here," said Mina. "She
does not get away with anything at home and she is not going to get away
with anything here."
"I'll do that," said Mrs. James.
"Thank you," said Mina.
The parents loved watching the children sing. Annika refused to get up in
front of everyone and glued herself to her mother's lap. Mrs. James
decided not to force her up there. Hope enjoyed her performing and did a
good job. There was a lot of pride in Haruka and Micharu's eyes. Faith
was not in the spotlight but she did what she was supposed to do and did a
good job. Gloria sang as loud as she could and had a good time. She could
tell that her parents were proud of her. It ended up being a successful
night for the Kindergarten class.
"I was so proud of you tonight," said Mina as she tucked Gloria into bed
that night."
"I did good didn't I," said Gloria proudly.
"You did," said Mina with a laugh as she kissed Gloria goodnight.
"I am going to be a famous singer when I grow up," said Gloria.
Mina just smiled. She had the same dream as a child but had to give it up
when her destiny as a palace guardian was spelled out. Mina decided to let
her child dream about it now but she knew the day would come when Gloria
would have to give up that dream.
"Goodnight Mommy," said Gloria.
"Goodnight Darling," said Mina kissing her daughter again. "Pleasant
dreams," she whispered.
Chapter 6: Trouble at a Party
"Now," said Mina as she put a bow in Gloria's hair. "What is the new rule
at parties."
"Don't get anything to eat or drink without you or Daddy," said Gloria.
Last time at a palace party Gloria and Annika drank wine thinking it was
apple juice. Both of them had gotten sick afterwards. Both Mina and Raye
had been furious to find out that the drink table had been left unattended
with young children around. Even though the king and queen had switched
caterers Mina and Raye decided not to allow their children to get anything
without one of them or their daddies with them.
"Good girl," said Mina kissing her daughter. "You look very pretty
tonight."
"So do you Mommy," said Gloria. "I want to be as pretty as you one day."
Mina did look beautiful in her orange gown.
"You already are," said Mina.
"And I have the two most beautiful dates," said Asai coming into the room
with his tuxedo on. "Are you ladies ready?"
"We are," said Mina taking Gloria by the hand.
"The let's go," said Asai and they all left together.
As it always was, parties honoring adults were boring and this one was no
exception. This one was to honor the Scouts and the Knights for all their
hard work. Gloria was bored out of her mind. She watched Annika being
held by both of her parents as they danced together. Ariel's parents were
doing the same thing with her. Gloria had danced a couple of dances with
her parents and then decided she had enough. She was hoping to play with
Annika but she was still dancing. Gloria had a feeling since Raye was a
bit on the overly protective side that she was going to keep Annika with
her for most of the party after what happened last time.
"Lost your sidekick tonight didn't you," said Rini.
"What do you mean," asked Gloria seething. Rini was almost twelve and
loved using words that the younger children did not understand.
"I mean Annika," said Rini. "I heard Raye saying that she was going to
make sure Annika did not get into trouble tonight. She is planning on
keeping a close eye on her."
"She said that," asked Gloria in disbelief.
"She did," said Rini. "I heard her myself."
"Annika is my best friend," said Gloria.
"I know she is," said Rini. "But the only time she gets into trouble is
when she is with you."
"That's not true," said Gloria fiercely. Meanwhile Daisy, Faith, and Hope
had come over and were listening with amusement.
"Actually that is true," said Hope. "Annika only gets into trouble in
school when she does something with you."
"That is why Mrs. Hastings has split you up," said Faith referring to their
first grade teacher.
"She split the two of you up," said Rini.
"Yes," said Faith. "Annika sits near the door and Gloria sits right by the
teacher's desk."
"So I can keep my eye on you," said Hope mimicking their teacher.
"Face it Gloria," said Daisy. "You are just a troublemaker."
"So are you," said Gloria in rage. "At least I have not lost recess
because of fighting."
That angered Daisy. "At least I am not rude to everyone," she said.
"What is going on here," asked Artemis coming over.
"You girls should not be fighting," said Luna.
"Daisy your mother told me to keep an eye on you," said Crescent. "Please
don't get me into trouble."
"Fine," said Daisy. "I don't want this brat to get me into trouble anyway."
"You big bully," said Gloria and she flew at Daisy.
"Gloria," said Artemis biting the hem of Gloria's dress to stop her. He
did not succeed. Gloria flew at Daisy while Artemis tumbled backward with
a piece of the dress in his mouth. Gloria tried to knock Daisy over but
the older girl was strong like her mother and grabbed Gloria's arm. Gloria
ended up on the floor.
"Girls," said Rini. "Maybe you two should stay away from each other."
"Good idea," said Crescent. "Come on Daisy. Let's go and find your
parents."
"I think that would be a good idea for you too," said Artemis. "I think we
should go and find yours too."
Gloria was not listening. She watched as Daisy followed Crescent. She got
to her feet and flew at Daisy catching her off guard. Daisy crashed to the
floor and Gloria jumped on top of her. The two started fighting.
"Daisy," said Crescent jumping at the two girls. He got flung away and
would of crashed if Faith had not quickly caught him.
"You are such a brat Gloria," said Daisy trying to push the younger child
off of her.
"Shut up," said Gloria as she scratched Daisy on the cheek.
"This is not good," said Luna as she ran toward the crowd of adults trying
to find Mina or Lita.
Daisy pushed Gloria off of her. Gloria bumped into something and then
heard a loud crash. Suddenly she was covered with food. Gloria saw that
she had bumped into one of the caterers and knocked him down. His tray of
food went all over the place.
"Uh oh," said Gloria and she turned toward Daisy. Daisy was looking at
something else. Gloria looked and saw a very angry Mina and Lita standing
over them.
"I have never been so embarrassed in all my life," said Mina once she
dragged Gloria back to their quarters.
"I said I was sorry," yelled Gloria.
"Watch your tone young lady," said Mina. "Tonight's behavior was
completely unacceptable. You know fighting with the other children is not
allowed. You have also ruined your dress."
Gloria looked at her yellow princess dress. It was stained and torn.
"Well Daisy made me mad," she said.
"That does not excuse your behavior," said Mina in a stern voice. "You are
the princess of Venus and I expect you to behave properly at these parties."
"I wanted to play with Annika," said Gloria. "And the other kids said that
Aunt Raye was keeping her with her tonight."
Mina gazed down at her daughter. "It's true," she said. "Raye was not
happy with the note she got from your teacher the other day. The one about
you and Annika gluing another child's book closed. We both know that
Annika only did it because she was with you. Raye thought it would be a
good idea if she kept Annika with her and Chad tonight."
"But Annika's my best friend," said Gloria.
"I know she is," said Mina. "But Raye wants her daughter to stay out of
trouble just like I want you to stay out of it too."
"Why," asked Gloria.
"Because I love you and I want you to be good," said Mina sadly.
Gloria just folded her arms and didn't say anything. She was too mad.
"Go take off your dress and get ready for bed," said Mina. "For the next
two weeks you will be going to bed at 7:00."
"That's when babies go to bed," wailed Gloria. "Even Ariel doesn't go to
bed that early."
"Well I'm sorry," said Mina. "But that is your punishment for tonight's
behavior. Now get moving before you lose TV too."
Gloria pouted and went into her room. Once again she could not stay out of
trouble.
Chapter 7: Heather
"I have a favor to ask," said Asai to Mina one afternoon.
"What is it," asked Mina.
"My sister and her husband have to for out of town on business for a
month," said Asai. "Even though it is summer they are not able to take
Heather with them. She was wondering if we could keep Heather with us."
Mina thought for a moment. Heather was a year younger than Gloria and had
just turned six. She was a good kid. "I guess we could put her into
Gloria's room with her," she said. "It might be good for Gloria to have
her cousin around."
"Great," said Asai. "I'll tell my sister then that it is all right."
Mina went to go find Gloria to tell her the news. She found her outside in
the palace tree house. A couple of years ago it had been built for the
girls to play in. Gloria loved it and spent a lot of time in it.
"Gloria," she called and Gloria's head popped out.
"Hi Mommy," said Gloria.
"Come on down for a minute," said Mina. "I have to talk to you."
"Okay," said Gloria climbing down.
"I have got some news for you," said Mina. "Your cousin Heather will be
staying with us for a month."
"Where is she going to sleep," asked Gloria.
"In your room with you," said Mina. "You have a big bedroom. We will put
an extra bed in there."
"I don't want to share my room," said Gloria.
"Too bad," aid Mina. "Now I expect you to be nice to her. No tricks like
last time."
Gloria smiled. Last time she saw Heather she had taken her jacket away.
Gloria found a stapler in Amy's office and stapled the sleeves together.
When Heather tried to put her jacket on later she could not get her arms
through the sleeves and ended up ripping it. Mina used Gloria's allowance
to buy a new jacket. Gloria also locked Heather in the Gardener's shed and
did not let her out. Mina was furious and Gloria had to sit in the corner
for thirty minutes. Gloria knew she was supposed to be nice to her cousin
but Heather was so easy to antagonize.
"Do you understand young lady," said Mina.
"Yes Ma'am," said Gloria in her innocent voice.
Two days later Heather arrived. She was an exotically, beautiful child
with black hair and bright blue eyes. She was overjoyed to see her Uncle
Asai and jumped right into his arms.
"Hi Uncle Asai," said Heather. "Thank you for letting me stay."
"You are welcome," aid Asai giving his niece a kiss.
"Hi Aunt Mina," said Heather as she kissed Mina. "I am so happy to see you."
"I am happy to see you too," said Mina. "What a polite child she is," Mina
thought to herself. "I wish mine could be that polite."
"Hi Gloria," said Heather.
"Hi," said Gloria.
"You are not going to be mean like last time are you," asked Heather.
"She won't," said Mina firmly. "I have talked with her."
"Good," said Heather.
"Come on," said Gloria. "We can play with my friends."
A few minutes later Gloria took Heather to the palace garden. Annika,
Daisy, Ariel, and Maggie were playing with jump ropes. Maggie and Daisy
were patiently trying to teach Ariel. The four-year-old daughter of
Mercury was trying very hard but was not succeeding.
"Hi everyone," said Gloria. "I have my cousin Heather with me."
"Hi Heather," said Annika in delight. "Gloria said you were staying with
us for a while."
"I am," said Heather. She liked Annika. They were the same age and Annika
was just sweet. She liked the other girls too. Heather sometimes wished
that they were her cousins instead of Gloria.
"Do you know how to jump rope," asked Daisy.
"A little," said Heather as she picked up a rope. She was able to jump a
few times but then got caught in the rope.
"We are teaching Ariel," said Maggie.
"It's hard," said Ariel.
"Don't worry," said Rini coming up. "You will get the hang of it."
"Hi Rini," said Heather.
"Hi Heather," said Rini. "I am so glad you are here with us."
Heather smiled and continued to jump rope. Gloria watched her. "I'll
leave her alone today," she thought to herself. "But tomorrow I will do
something to have fun."
The next day Gloria took Heather to the tree house. She and Heather went
to the top.
"This is neat," said Heather. "Do the other kids play here too?"
"Yes," said Gloria. "But not as much as me."
"Why," asked Heather.
"I like it up here," said Gloria. "I come here if I don't want to see
anyone."
"Oh," said Heather. She looked around the palace grounds. While she was
looking Gloria dropped her hair bow to the ground.
"Oops," said Gloria. "I dropped my hair bow. I need to get it."
"Okay," said Heather not paying much attention.
Gloria climbed down. When she got to the bottom she pushed the ladder down.
"Hey," cried Heather. "What are you doing?"
Gloria just laughed and ran off.
"I am going to tell," shouted Heather but Gloria paid no attention. This
was the best trick she had played yet.
Gloria decided to look for Annika. She guessed Annika might be in her
favorite place. Gloria went to the palace pond and found Annika sitting by
it. She had taken off her shoes and was dangling her feet in the water.
On her lap was her drawing book with her markers by her side and she was
drawing pictures.
"Hi Annika," said Gloria and Annika looked up from her work.
"Hi," said Annika. "Where is Heather?"
"In the tree house," said Gloria and she began to laugh.
"What is so funny," asked Annika.
"I knocked the ladder down," said Gloria.
"You just left her up there," said Annika. "You are going to be in big
trouble."
"I know," said Gloria. "But it is so much fun doing things like this to her."
"I wish I had a cousin my age to play with," said Annika. "I think you are
lucky." Like Mina, Raye was an only child. She did have some cousins of
her own who had kids. Chad had a couple of siblings with children but they
were all older than Annika. Whenever Annika went to family reunions with
her parents her cousins treated her like a doll. Annika did not mind the
attention but she did wish there were someone to play with. She was always
glad to get back to the palace so she could be with her friends who were
like sisters.
"Heather is just fun to do things like that too," said Gloria.
"It's mean," said Annika. "And you will be in big trouble when your Mama
finds out."
"I thought I would find you here," said Raye coming up with a towel in her
hand.
"Hi Mama," said Annika.
"I have some free time from my duties this afternoon and thought it would
be nice to spend it with you," said Raye. "Would you like to go shopping?"
"Yes," said Annika in excitement.
"Good," said Raye. "Because you need some new clothes. Get your shoes on
and we will go."
Annika pulled her feet out of the water. Raye dried them off with the
towel and helped Annika put her shoes on.
"Gloria," said a sharp voice and everyone turned to see a very angry Mina
approaching. Heather was behind her in tears. "That was a mean thing you
did to Heather."
"What did she do," asked Raye.
"Took the ladder away while Heather was up in the tree," said Mina. "It's
a good thing Amy and Greg had gotten back from their walk with Ariel or
Heather would still be up there."
"I think we had better get going," said Raye scooping Annika up. "We will
see you later." Raye and Annika left quickly.
Mina walked up to Gloria and spanked her. "Apologize to your cousin right
now," she said.
"Sorry," said Gloria with tears in her eyes. Mina took Gloria by the hand
and they went up to their quarters.
"Now go to your room," said Mina. "You are to stay there until
dinnertime." Mina took Heather on her lap and comforted her. Gloria
stomped off to her bedroom. Can't anyone take a joke?
Dinnertime that night was in the palace dining hall with the King, Queen,
and all of the Scouts and Knights. Several times a week everyone gathered
together to have dinner as one big family. The other nights everyone chose
to have dinner alone with his or her families.
"I told you that you would get into trouble," said Annika said to Gloria.
"I can't believe you did that to your cousin," said Daisy. "That was so
mean."
"Shut up," said Gloria. She had spent a whole afternoon in her room and
was not in a good mood.
"You shut up," said Daisy.
"Cool it girls," said Rini. "Don't you think there has been enough trouble
today?"
"She's right," said Artemis. "Gloria, what you did was wrong and you
deserved your punishment."
Gloria sulked and finished her dinner.
Chapter 8: Silent Treatment
Gloria ran in panic. Tears were falling down her face. She knew she was
in big trouble. Gloria did not mean for Annika to get hurt. When she
tossed Annika's hat onto the ice she thought it would be funny if Annika
had slipped and landed on her bottom. She did not think the ice was going
to break and Annika was going to plunge through it. Gloria was frightened.
What if Annika died? Gloria would never forgive herself if that happened.
Right now she did not know what to do. She did not want to see either of
her parents right now. Gloria thought for a moment and then decided to go
to the Gates of Time. Rini and Maggie went there a number of times to see
Sailor Pluto. Maybe Sailor Pluto would comfort her.
Gloria made her way over to the Gates of Time. When she went in she saw
Sailor Pluto standing by the Time Portal. "Hello Gloria," said Sailor
Pluto. "I have been expecting you."
"You have," asked Gloria with tears running down her face.
"Yes," said Pluto. "I know what just happened."
"It was an accident," sobbed Gloria. "I didn't think Annika was going to
fall in the icy water."
Pluto knelt down and wrapped her arms around Gloria. Gloria rested her
head on Pluto's shoulder and sobbed hysterically. Pluto just held the
child until she calmed down.
"Is Annika going to be all right," sobbed Gloria.
"She will be," said Pluto.
"Good," said Gloria. "I don't want to see my mom right now."
"You have too," said Pluto in a firm yet gentle voice. "Hiding here is not
going to help you. You need to apologize to Annika. You will be punished
for what you did but your mommy and daddy both love you very much. Nothing
will change that."
"Do I really have to go," sobbed Gloria.
"They are looking for you now," said Pluto. "You should go so you will not
get into bigger trouble. Also if you do not show up your parents will worry."
"Okay," said Gloria reluctantly. "Can I come back soon?"
"You can come here anytime you need too," said Pluto.
"Thank you," said Gloria and she walked through the door to the palace.
She did not get very far when she saw her very angry mother approaching her.
"Gloria," said Mina and she went up to her daughter. "You are in big
trouble young lady," she said as she spanked Gloria.
"I'm sorry Mommy," sobbed Gloria.
"Tell that to Annika," said Mina. "You shouldn't throw people's things on
ice. Annika could have drowned."
"I did not mean for that to happen," said Gloria. "I was only playing a
joke."
"I told you sometimes your jokes go to far," said Mina. "Today it went
more than to far. I am really disappointed in you."
"Is Annika okay," asked Gloria.
"Rini and the other children pulled her out of the water," said Mina.
"Raye and Amy rushed her back to her quarters quickly so they could get her
into a warm bath. Hopefully she will be fine."
They got back to their quarters where Asai was waiting. "You found her,"
he said.
"Yes," said Mina. "We will take her to apologize to Annika later."
"Now to discuss your punishment," said Asai.
Gloria was grounded for two weeks. Except for school she was not allowed
to leave her quarters. Gloria for once did not complain about her
punishment. As far as she was concerned she deserved it.
That evening Mina and Asai took Gloria to apologize to Annika. Annika was
curled up on the couch in her mother's arms. She was wrapped in an
electric blanket but she was still shivering. Gloria saw that Annika was
very pale and her face and hands were covered with scratches.
"What do you say Gloria," said Mina in a stern voice.
"I'm sorry Annika," said Gloria in an ashamed voice.
Annika did not say anything. She turned around so that her back was turned
to Gloria.
"Annika," said Raye gently. "Gloria just apologized to you."
"I don't care," said Annika. "I don't want to talk to her ever again."
"Sweetheart you don't mean that," said Raye.
"Yes I do," shouted Annika. "I hate her and I don't ever want to talk to
her again. Tell her to go away."
"Annika I'm sorry," choked Gloria as tears rolled down her face. "Really I
am."
"Get out," screamed Annika. She grabbed a cushion off of the couch and
threw it at Gloria. "I hate you. Get out!"
Fearing that Annika was going to get to upset Raye quickly ushered Mina,
Asai, and Gloria to the door. "Don't worry," she said. "Annika will come
around. She is just stubborn like me."
"I am really sorry Aunt Raye," sobbed Gloria.
Raye patted Gloria on the head. "I know you are honey," she said. "Just
try to put yourself in Annika's place right now. She had a major fright
today. Just watch out for the tricks you play. Some of them are just not
funny."
"Are you okay," asked Mina as she motioned Asai to take Gloria back to
their quarters.
The bravery on Raye's face dropped. "I have been pretty shook up myself
today," she admitted. "I came pretty close to losing her today. If Rini
and the other children had not been there God knows what would have
happened. I have been holding Annika for most of the afternoon because I
just don't want to let her go right now."
"I am really sorry about this," said Mina tears falling rolling down her face.
"It's okay," said Raye giving her friend a hug.
"Gloria is being punished," said Mina.
"Mama," called Annika from the living room.
"I guess I had better get back to her," said Raye. "Thank you for stopping
by."
Mina walked back to her quarters. She felt so bad about what happened.
She was never this mean. Where did Gloria get this mean streak?
The next morning Venus was walking Gloria to the palace doors so she could
leave for school. She ran into Mars Knight.
"Good morning Chad," said Venus. "Where is Raye and Annika?"
"Annika has gotten sick so she won't be going anywhere today," said Mars
Knight. "Raye is taking at least the morning off to stay with her."
"It's all my fault," said Gloria.
"Hush," said Venus placing her hand on her daughter's head. "It's over and
done with now. We just need to move forward."
"Is Annika still mad at me," asked Gloria.
"I don't know," said Mars Knight. "She was feeling pretty miserable this
morning. None of us got much sleep last night. Annika kept having
nightmares. Raye finally ended up sleeping with her."
Gloria also had nightmares last night. She finally crawled into bed with
her parents too.
"You need to get to school now," said Venus. "Remember you come straight
home from school and you go right to our quarters."
"Yes Ma'am," said Gloria.
Venus kissed her daughter goodbye. Gloria ran out the door and saw the
other kids were already out there. "Hi everyone," she said.
"Hi Gloria," said Rini. No one else said anything.
"Hi," said Gloria to them but no one answered.
"I am afraid they are not talking to you," said Rini softly.
"Then why are you," asked Gloria.
"Because I am older," said Rini.
The day was unbearable. Hope, Faith and Ariel had told the entire second
grade what had happened to Annika so no would speak to Gloria. Recess was
spent just walking around the playground because no one would play with
her. Gloria could not wait to get home. Even Maggie and Madelyn would not
speak to her.
That night in Gloria lay in bed crying. Artemis came in and sat down on
the bed next to her. "Are you all right," he asked.
"Oh Artemis I really messed things up this time," sobbed Gloria. "No one
will speak to me now. I am all alone."
"No you are not," said Artemis. "You have me and you have your parents."
"He's right," said Mina coming in. She sat down on the bed and gathered
Gloria into her arms. "Everyone is just a little upset with you right now.
They'll get over it."
Gloria did not say anything. She just cried on her mother's shoulder.
Mina stroked her daughter's long hair and held her tightly.
Gloria finally calmed down a little. "I will never play a trick again for
as long as I live," she said.
"Yes you will," said Mina. "You just have to make sure they are harmless
tricks that won't hurt anyone."
"Mommy please stay with me until I go to sleep," pleaded Gloria.
"Of course," said Mina as she tucked her daughter in. She lay down next to
Gloria and stayed by herself until she went to sleep. Maybe Gloria has
learned her lesson finally.
A few days later Gloria rushed ahead of everyone to get home from school.
She could not bear it. Annika was back in school and she still was not
talking to Gloria. Rini was still the only one talking to her. Gloria was
very lonely right now. She decided it she got back to the palace early
enough she might be able to talk to Sailor Pluto before being restricted to
her quarters. Right now Gloria just had to see another friendly face.
Gloria got to the Gates of Time and went in. Sailor Pluto was there
waiting for her. "Hello Gloria," she said. "I have been expecting you."
"Hi Aunt Setsuna," said Gloria.
Pluto knelt down in front of Gloria. "You are going through a hard time
right now aren't you."
Gloria burst into tears. "Everyone hates me now," she sobbed. "No one
will speak to me except for Rini."
"Don't worry," said Pluto. "It won't be too much longer before everyone
comes around."
"I wish I never threw Annika's hat onto the ice," said Gloria.
"Well you did," said Pluto. "And you cannot change that."
"I will never play a mean trick again," sobbed Gloria. "If only everyone
would talk to me again."
"They will," said Pluto. "Very soon. Now you had better go before your
mother realizes that you are not in your quarters."
"Okay," said Gloria rubbing the tears out of her eyes.
"Just give everyone a couple of days," said Pluto with a smile.
"Thank you," said Gloria as she left.
A couple of days later Gloria and her mother were walking toward the palace
door so she could leave for school. They ran into Mars and Annika.
"Hi Gloria," said Annika.
"Annika," said Gloria.
Annika walked up to Gloria. She looked at her for a minute and then
slapped her on the shoulder. "Tag," she said. "You're it." Annika took
off and Gloria ran after her. She felt happy for the first time in days.
Annika was talking to her again.
Chapter 9: A New Friend
One Saturday Gloria and Annika decided to go into town and get some ice
cream. It was a beautiful spring day and both girls were wearing new
spring hats.
"Chocolate, my favorite," said Gloria as she licked her ice cream.
"I like strawberry better," said Annika who was taking dainty licks.
"At least it is not a school day," said Gloria.
"What do you want to do when we get back to the palace," asked Annika.
"Let's play that game your mom got you the other day," suggested Gloria.
"Okay," said Annika.
Suddenly a strong wind blew and Gloria's hat flew off. "Oh no," she
wailed. "I have to get it."
"I'm coming," said Annika following Gloria. The two little girls ran after
the hat. It went over a wall.
"Oh no," said Annika. "Now you will never get it back."
"Yes I will," said Gloria. "This is the wall that surrounds the old
people's home. I can just go in and get it."
The two girls went to the front gate. It was open. Gloria and Annika ran
around the wall and found the hat. Suddenly they heard a soft singing.
The girls looked up and saw it was an old woman sitting on a porch.
"Hello my children," she said with a friendly smile. "Why don't you come
over and visit with me?"
"Let's go," said Gloria to Annika. "She seems nice."
"No," said Annika shyly. "I want to go home."
"I want to talk to her," said Gloria.
"You should not talk to strangers," hissed Annika but Gloria didn't pay any
attention. She found herself drawn toward this sweet old lady.
"Excuse me," said Gloria to a nurse. "Who is that lady over there?'
"Her name is Ella," said the nurse. "She is one of our oldest residents
here."
"Is she nice," asked Gloria.
"Yes come and visit with her," said the nurse. "She just adores children."
"Okay," said Gloria. She turned toward Annika. "Are you coming?"
"No," said Annika in her soft shy voice. "I am going home." With that she
turned and ran out of the yard.
"My friend is very shy," said Gloria.
"It's okay," laughed the nurse. "What is your name?"
"My name is Gloria," said Gloria.
"Well Gloria," said the nurse. "Come and meet Ms. Ella."
Gloria followed the nurse to the old lady. "Ms. Ella," said the nurse. "I
have a visitor for you. This is Gloria."
"Well hello my dear," said Ms. Ella. "Thank you for coming to see me."
"You are welcome," said Gloria as she sat down next to the old lady. The
nurse quietly slipped away.
"Tell me Gloria," said Ms. Ella. "How old are you."
"I am eight," said Gloria.
"I must say you are a pretty child," said Ms. Ella. But you look like a
real spitfire with that red hair."
Gloria blushed. "I am," she admitted. "I get into trouble a lot. My
mother tells me I need to watch my manners."
"You remind me of my oldest daughter," said Ms. Ella. "She was one of the
rudest, most obnoxious children that ever set foot on this earth but
underneath that attitude she cared very deeply for her friends and family."
Gloria thought of Annika. She cared deeply for her. "How many children do
you have," she asked.
"I had six children," said Ms. Ella. "All of them are gone now."
"Gone," asked Gloria.
"Yes," said Ms. Ella. "I outlived my husband and my children."
"How old are you," asked Gloria and then she blushed. "I'm sorry. My
mother tells me I shouldn't ask an adult her age."
"That's okay," said Ms. Ella with a laugh. "I don't mind telling. I was
eighty-nine years old when the dormancy period came. Because we slept for
a thousand years that made me one thousand eighty-nine years old when
Neo-Queen Serenity woke us up. I am over one thousand one hundred and
fifteen years old."
"Wow," said Gloria. Her own mother looked very young but she was also over
a thousand years old because of the dormancy period. "My mother was very
young when the dormancy period hit."
"A lot of the young mothers out there were," said Ms. Ella. "Only those
born during after the dormancy period show their true age."
"Didn't your children have kids," asked Gloria.
"Yes," said Mrs. Ella. "I have many grandchildren but they all have their
own lives now."
"Don't they come and see you," asked Gloria.
"No," said Ms. Ella.
"How sad," said Gloria.
"It is," said Ms. Ella. "Do you have a large family Gloria?"
"I live at the palace," said Gloria. "I have my mom and dad but all of the
other kids there are like family to me. Their moms and dads are like aunts
and uncles."
"You must be the daughter of one of those beautiful warriors," said Ms. Ella.
"I am," said Gloria. "Sailor Venus is my mother."
"The Sailor Scout of love," said Ms. Ella. "I remember those Sailor Scouts
were only fourteen when they started defending the earth. I had some
admiration for them."
"How come," asked Gloria.
"They gave up the lives of being ordinary teenagers to protect the earth,"
said Ms. Ella. "Now one of them is the queen and the rest are her
guardians. Whenever one of them had a child it was all over the news."
"Really," asked Gloria.
"Yes," said Ms. Ella. "I remember when each of you were born."
"I did not know that our births were so important," said Gloria.
"Of course they were," said Ms. Ella. "The Sailor Scouts are very
important to us. When they had children the whole world celebrated."
"Do you remember every war the Scouts fought," asked Gloria.
"I sure do," said Ms. Ella. "You will learn about them in history classes
when you get older. They were scary wars but we always knew the Sailor
Scouts would win for us."
"You did," asked Gloria.
"They are strong," said Ms. Ella. "And the love they had for each other
was stronger than sisterly love."
"All of us kids at the palace are like sisters," said Gloria. "The
daughter of Sailor Mars is my best friend. We do a lot together."
"Cherish that friendship," said Ms. Ella. "A special friend like that is
hard to come by."
"I will," said Gloria. "Can I come and see you again?"
"You can come anytime," said Ms. Ella.
When Gloria got back to the palace she ran into Sailor Jupiter. "Where
were you," she demanded. "Your mother is starting to worry."
"I don't have to tell you," said Gloria in a rude voice.
"You know something Gloria," said Jupiter. "If Daisy were as rude as you
are she would be permanently grounded."
Gloria did not say anything. She ran upstairs to her quarters and saw her
parents were already there.
"Where were you," asked Mina. "Annika got back almost two hours ago. I
was getting worried."
"I met this really neat lady at the old people's home," said Gloria. "I
visited her for a while. I really like her."
"You spent all of this time visiting an old lady," asked Mina in surprise.
Her daughter rarely seemed to care about anyone.
"Yes," said Gloria. "Her husband and children are all gone and her
grandchildren do not visit her. She was already old when you all went to
sleep for a long time. She is really nice. She told me I could come visit
her anytime. Can I?"
"Sure," said Mina. "But next time I am coming with you. I would like to
meet her first."
"Okay," said Gloria,
Three days later Mina and Gloria went to the nursing home to see Ms. Ella.
She was delighted to see Gloria.
"Hello my child," said Ms. Ella. "I am so glad you came back to visit."
"This is my mother," said Gloria pointing to Mina.
Mina held out her hand. "It is a pleasure to meet you," she said. "Gloria
has told me a lot already."
"I must say you have a charming daughter here," said Ms. Ella.
"Really," said Mina in surprise. "I would like to see some of that charm."
"Don't worry about that," said Ms. Ella with a laugh. "My oldest daughter
was a lot like Gloria but she did okay for herself."
"Glad to hear it," said Mina placing a hand on her daughter's head.
"I remember when this child was born," said Ms. Ella. "I remember when all
of them were born from the daughter of the Queen to the daughter of Sailor
Mercury. What happy occasions they all were. It made me think of the
times all of my children were born."
Mina smiled. The whole world did rejoice when the scouts' daughters were
born. They were special times.
"Ms. Ella," said Gloria. "Have you always lived in Japan?"
"Yes I have," said Ms. Ella. "But I have visited many places in the world.
I hope one day you will too."
"She has done a little travelling with us," said Mina. "We took her to
England when she was three but she does not remember much."
"I hope you will let your daughter visit me often," said Ms. Ella. "She is
giving my life some meaning again."
"Of course," said Mina feeling proud of her daughter.
The next three weeks Gloria visited Ms. Ella as much as she could. Ms.
Ella was always delighted to see the child. Mina felt a lot of pride for
her daughter. She never imagined her daughter being kind to a lonely old
lady.
"Why do you go and see her so much," Annika asked one day. She and Gloria
were sitting on Gloria's bed playing a game.
"She's neat," said Gloria. "She tells really great stories. Want to come
next time?"
"No," said Annika whose shyness kept her from seeing this old lady.
"She's really nice Annika," said Gloria.
"You told me that," said Annika. "But I do not want to see her."
"Hi girls," said Mina coming into the room. "Annika you need to go home now."
"Okay," said Annika climbing down from the bed. "Bye Gloria."
"Bye," said Gloria.
Mina sat down on the bed. "The nursing home just called," she said. "Ms.
Ella is dying and wants to see you."
"Dying," said Gloria. "She can't die."
"Darling she is old," said Mina. "Everyone dies at one point. Now let's
go and see her. We cannot ignore the last wish of a dying woman."
Gloria jumped down off her bed and ran for the door. "I'm coming Ms.
Ella," she said.
When they got to the nursing home Gloria and Mina were taken to Ms. Ella's
room. She was lying on her bed hooked up to monitors.
"Ms. Ella," said Gloria walking up to the bed.
"Gloria," said Ms. Ella. "It looks like my time is near."
"Mom told me you wanted to see me," said Gloria.
"I did," said Ms. Ella. "There is a box on the table over there. Please
get it."
Gloria went over and got the box. She brought it over to the bed. Ms.
Ella opened it and took out a bracelet. "I want you to have this," she
said to Gloria.
"It's pretty," said Gloria looking at it. The bracelet had rhinestones all
over it.
"That's an extravagant gift for a little girl," said Mina looking at the
bracelet.
"I want to give it to her," said Ms. Ella. "This child gave my life some
meaning for the last several weeks. It is my token of appreciation.
Please let me give it to her."
"Very well," said Mina.
"Thank you for being such a good friend," said Ms. Ella. "I have cherished
these last three weeks."
"Me too," said Gloria as a tear rolled down her face.
"Be good my child," said Ms. Ella. The heart monitor went dead. She was
gone. Gloria burst into tears. She turned around and flung herself into
her mother's arms and wept. Mina just held her daughter until she calmed
down.
That night Gloria could not sleep. She gazed out at the stars. In her
hand she clutched the bracelet Ms. Ella had given her. Mina came into the
room. "How are you doing," she asked.
"I feel sad," said Gloria.
"It's okay to feel sad my dear," said Mina.
"I am going to miss her," said Gloria.
"I know you are," said Mina putting her arms around her daughter. "But
just think how much happiness you gave that old lady for the last several
weeks. Because of you she died happy and I am very proud of you for that."
Gloria did not answer she rested her head on her mother's shoulder and
began to cry again. Mina held Gloria close. "You know what you can do,"
she asked.
"Tell me," said Gloria.
"You can pick out a star for Ms. Ella," said Mina. "Every time you look at
that star you can talk to her."
"Really," asked Gloria.
"Yes," said Mina. "Would you lie to pick one out?"
Gloria gazed up at the stars. Her eyes caught a very bright one. "I like
that one," she said pointing to it.
"Then that will be Ms. Ella's star," said Mina.
"I feel better now," said Gloria.
"Ms. Ella will always live in here," said Mina pointing to Gloria's heart.
"Now you can talk to her star."
Gloria lay down in her mother's lap and gazed at the star. "I promise,"
she said to herself. "I will never forget Ms. Ella."
Chapter 10: The Symbol of Venus
"We had another rough day young lady," said Mina as she tucked her daughter
in for the night. "I do not want another note from your teacher tomorrow
about you being rude to her."
"All right," said Gloria in a sulky voice.
"We are going to work on these manners and your attitude," said Mina
firmly. "From now on when you bring a note home from school about your
behavior you will be grounded."
"Fine," said Gloria crossly.
"Good night Darling," said Mina pecking a kiss on Gloria's cheek. "I love
you."
"Love you too," said Gloria.
Mina left the room. Gloria was now nine and had gotten a major attitude
lately. She was rude to her teachers and everyone else. She defied
authority everyday. Mina was almost at her wits end with Gloria. She
discussed it with Lita who pointed out that Gloria had at least stopped
playing mean tricks on people. That was true. Annika falling into the
frozen lake that time had taught Gloria a sharp lesson. Since then the
mean tricks stopped but the rudeness and now this attitude was still there.
"Did we lay down the law again," asked Asai.
"I hope so," said Mina with a sigh.
"We'll keep working on her," said Asai. "That is all we can do."
Mina sat back resting her head on her husband's shoulder. She loved her
daughter so much and it pained her that Gloria was the way she was. Mina
also knew that time to tell Gloria of her destiny as a Sailor Chibi Scout
was near. Would Gloria be willing to accept that?
Mina got up and went to Gloria's room. The child was already asleep. Mina
noticed a glow on Gloria's forehead. She walked over to Gloria and gently
lifted her hair off of her forehead.
The glow was the symbol of Venus.
Two days later Venus was heading back to her quarters. The Scouts all had
a meeting with the Queen and it was agreed that it was time to awaken the
Chibi Scouts. Luna produced the transformation pens. Venus had Gloria's
in her hand. Rini was informed that she, as Sailor Chibi Moon, would be
the leader of the Chibi Scouts. Venus had foggy memories of Sailor Chibi
Venus coming to the past a couple of times. The child was obnoxious but
she was a good Sailor Scout. Of course back then Venus did not know Gloria
as well as she did now. Maybe being a Sailor Chibi Scout would be good for
Gloria. It might help with her discipline.
"Okay Gloria," she said as she stopped outside her quarters. "Let's see
how you take this."
End of Part 2. Part 3 will be Daisy's story.