Hi Everyone! Well due to popular demand from the story "I Don't Exist" we decided to write one for each Chibi Scout.
Disclaimer: We do not own Sailor Moon. The Chibi Scouts with the exception of Rini belong to Angel Raye
I Don't Exist, Part Two
By
Angel Raye and Wonderful Miracle
"I wish there was something I could do" Annika sighed playing with Gloria
"About what Annika?" Gloria questioned
"Oh I just wish I could change some things that have happened lately" Annika replied
"Really? You talking about seeing life as if you had never existed?" Gloria asked
"Sort of. I would love to be able to help that girl change her attitude" Annika told her
"You are always wanting to help out people" Gloria reminded her
"I know but that's my nature where as your nature is to always be bad" Annika giggled
"I'm trying to change" Gloria shot back
"I know and you are doing a better job at it" Annika agreed.
"Glad someone notices," Gloria muttered dryly.
"Of course I notice," Annika pointed out.
"Gloria," called Mina coming into the playroom. "Come on we have to go now. We are meeting your aunt, uncle and cousin at the restaurant."
"You mean I have to have dinner with that drip Heather," whined Gloria.
"Drop that attitude young lady," Mina ordered. "And you had better not do anything to antagonize her tonight."
"I won't Mom," Gloria smiled. "I promise." Annika noticed that Gloria had her fingers crossed behind her. She giggled as Gloria and Mina left the room.
"She will never change," Annika thought to herself. She began to think about the reality where she did not exist. Her parents had a child, Angela who was a real brat. Annika wished she could show that child what wonderful parents Chad and Raye were.
Annika suddenly felt dizzy. The room around her began to spin. Remembering what Amy told her she put her head down and waited until the dizziness passed. When it did Annika decided to go and find her mother. She left the playroom and ran into Michiru and Haruka.
"Who are you dear," asked Michiru in surprise. "Are you friend of the twins?"
"Aunt Michiru it's me Annika," Annika told her.
"We don't remember you," Haruka replied.
"I'm Raye and Chad's daughter," Annika protested.
"Angela is Raye and Chad's daughter," Michiru informed her.
Annika gasped. She had been tossed into the reality Meesha had shown her earlier. Why was she here? "I think I have been tossed into another reality," she gasped. "Because I am their daughter in my reality."
"Who's this Michiru and Haruka," Raye came up.
"This child claims to be yours in another reality," Michiru explained.
Raye turned to Annika. She looked at her closely. Annika could not contain herself. She flung herself into Raye's arms. "Mama," she cried. "I am your daughter."
Raye pushed Annika off of her and looked at her closely. "I do feel a connection with you," she said. "Let's take you to Ami. She can check you over." Annika went with Raye to Ami's office.
"Amy do you have a minute?" Raye said walking into her office
"Sure what can I do for...Who is this?" Ami questioned
"This is Annika and she claims to be from another dimension" Raye told her
"That is fascinating. I better run some tests though to confirm it" Ami replied
"I hate tests" Annika whined
"How about if I stay with you" Raye whispered
"Okay" Annika shrugged following Ami into the other room
"I must admit you behaved better than my daughter would for Ami" Raye commented
"In my time I'm always sweet but I do hate to go to the doctor" Annika replied.
"Well you behaved really well for me and I did get the results" Ami said holding a piece of paper
"What does it say Ami?" Raye quizzed
"It proves that she is your daughter and as she said she is from another dimension" Ami read from the report
"Cool!" Annika squealed
"Okay thank you Ami and Annika why don't you come stay with us" Raye offered. "At least until we can figure out a way to get you back home."
"That would be great" Annika replied.
Annika followed Raye to her quarters. She was feeling a little apprehensive. She remembered in this reality Angela was a brat and Gloria was expelled from school. She also remembered that Gloria was killed in this reality. Would she be able to stop it?
"What can I call you," she asked timidly.
"Let's see," Raye murmured. "Why don't you call me Mama Raye?"
"That will work," Annika agreed happily.
Ariel came running down the hall. "Slow down Ariel where are you off to in such a hurry," Raye asked the small child.
"I am going to try and find Aurora again," Ariel called. Annika's heart skipped a beat. In this reality since she was not here Aurora hid the pearl of friendship in Ariel. Since Ariel was so young she was trying to do everything she could to get to Aurora.
"Poor baby," murmured Raye.
"Aurora hid the pearl in me," Annika whispered.
"Did she now," Raye asked in surprise. "Now you definitely seem to be the opposite of my child." Annika just smiled. Raye opened the door to her quarters and led Annika in. A six-year-old was sitting on the couch cutting up some material.
"What are you doing," shrieked Raye running over and grabbing the scissors and fabric from the little girl. Annika saw that the child had cut up her princess dress.
"I hate that dress and I hate those parties," Angela replied.
"This is why Daddy and I never get you new things," Raye shouted. "You destroy everything."
"Who cares," snapped Angela. She turned and saw Annika. "Who are you?"
"I…I…um," Annika stammered suddenly feeling very intimidated.
"This is Annika," Raye quickly explained the situation to the child. "Until we can figure out a way to get her home she will be staying with us."
"Well I hope it's soon," snapped Angela. "I don't want her here."
Raye suddenly turned Angela over and swatted her a couple of times. Angela began to howl. "Go to your room," Raye ordered. "And don't come out until I say you can." Angela stomped back to her room. Raye placed a reassuring hand on Annika's shoulder. "Don't worry we'll get you home soon." Annika hugged Raye and did not say anything.
"Mama Raye can I go find Gloria?" Annika asked later that afternoon
"Sure but you will probably have to convince Mina into letting you see her" Raye sighed wondering if it would work
"I can at least try" Annika replied walking out the door
"CAN I COME OUT?" Angela shouted from her room once Annika had left
"NO not till I say so" Raye replied wishing her daughter were more like Annika with each passing moment.
"Hello?" Mina questioned as she opened the door to her quarters
"Hi...umm I'm not sure" Annika started but was cut off by Gloria
"Who is it?" Gloria demanded from the couch
"It's that girl Raye found" Mina shot back
"I'm Annika and I was wondering if I could speak to Gloria" Annika asked shyly
"I'm not sure that is a good idea seeing as she is in a foul mood today" Mina commented
"Oh come on Mom what could it hurt" Gloria retorted
"Okay but only for 10 minutes" Mina scolded her as she let Annika into the room
"So your from another dimension" Gloria quizzed as Annika sat next to her on the couch
"Yep and in that dimension you and I are best friends" Annika told her
"Really how odd," Gloria sighed
"Why do you think that?" Annika asked
"Usually I don't associate with people much since I'm a troublemaker" Gloria stated.
"In my time you are a trouble maker too but you are also really nice to me and that is why we are friends" Annika said
"That must be nice" Gloria whispered
"It is most of the time" Annika sighed
"Maybe you and I can play together then sometime" Gloria commented
"That would be fun but I better get back to my quarters for now" Annika called out as she left.
"Is this her," asked Chad as Annika re-entered the quarters.
"That's her," Raye replied.
"She looks more like you then Angela does," Chad commented.
Annika flushed. "Hi Daddy Chad," she whispered.
"Nice to meet you Annika,' Chad replied.
"We have to go down to the palace dining hall for dinner in a little while," Raye told Annika. "Would you like to rest before we go?"
Annika suddenly wanted to go home. She would be out of place here since no one knew her. Her lower lip began to quiver. "What is it Annika," asked Raye. She was surprised when Annika suddenly climbed onto her lap and snuggled down. Angela never did this with her.
"I do this with Mama all the time,' sobbed Annika. "I miss it."
"It's okay," Raye assured the child as she held her close. "We can do this here too."
The next day over Ami's protests Annika did not go to school. Raye felt it would be a good idea to keep the child here until she felt comfortable in this other dimension. Annika found this amusing. Wait until Gloria found out that she did not have to go to school in this dimension. Ami went over some lessons with her and then let her go for the day. She was in the palace dining room when Asai, Mina and Gloria arrived from the school.
"This is a nightmare," Mina was screaming. "A complete nightmare."
"What happened," asked Serenity in concern.
"Our daughter has just gotten herself expelled from school," Asai replied grimly.
"Expelled," asked Lita in amazement.
"Yes," cried Mina. "Where are those boarding school pamphlets? I am going to find one for her."
"And I will run away if you do," shouted Gloria. Annika did not hear anymore. Mina and Asai dragged their troubled child upstairs.
"HEY what are you doing?" Angela demanded as Annika entered the playroom
"I came to read some" Annika said as she went to the reading corner
"Well you can't be here," Angela shouted as she walked over and took the book Annika had just picked up
"Why not?" Annika questioned
"Because I said so and I'm the boss" Angela shot back as she pushed Annika toward the door
"Don't do that" Ariel cried from the painting area
"And why not crybaby?" Angela demanded
"You don't want one of the nannies to come in do you" Faith reminded her
"Oh sure what can they do to me. I've got the outsider" Angela snorted
"What I'm about to do right now," Ves said stepping into the room and taking Angela by the shoulders
"Hey! Lay off I was just umm being friendly" Angela stammered struggling to get away
"Yeah right your mother will hear of this young lady" Ves commented dragging Angela out of the playroom
"Watch your back outsider" Angela whispered to Annika as she left
"Don't pay any mind to her threats" Maggie sighed after Angela had left
"Is she always like this?" Annika asked
"Most of the time she is much worse" Hope said
"Really? That is a bad thing" Annika commented
"Yes it is but maybe since you and her share the same parents you can get through to her" Ariel suggested
"I doubt it after that little show" Annika sighed
"Never know till you try" Madelyn said looking up from her puzzle.
Annika sighed. She was always told be careful what you wish for.
Later on Annika was walking around outside. She needed to clear her head. Annika knew she was there to change Angela but she did not know how she could do that. Annika really wanted to go home now. Even though Raye over here was just like her mother, she wasn't her mother. To Raye Annika was just some child who dropped in from another dimension.
A movement caught her eye. Annika looked and saw Ariel running toward a tree with costume wings on her back. Immediately Annika remembered that Ariel had been Aurora's special friend in this dimension and was obsessed with trying to find her. She also knew that Ariel was going to get badly hurt from this. "I have to go and get Ami," she thought and took off toward the palace.
"Ami," called Annika running into the palace.
"What is it dear," asked Ami.
"You had better get outside," gasped Annika. "Ariel needs you."
Ami did not question. She immediately headed outside with Annika at her heals. She saw Ariel up in the tree trying to stand on one of the branches. "Ariel," she shrieked and dashed over to the tree.
"Hi Mommy I am going to find Aurora now," called Ariel.
"Get down here this minute young lady," Ami ordered.
"No I am going to fly," Ariel replied and she jumped. Ami was ready. She dashed forward and caught Ariel in her arms. As soon as she had Ariel safe in her arms she turned the child over and swatted her. Ariel immediately started wailing.
"I'm sorry Darling," Ami told the child. "But you could have been seriously hurt and I am not going to let you get off lightly for this." Carrying Ariel she began to walk toward the palace. She paused for a moment and turned to Annika. "Thank you," she whispered and then walked back inside.
"Annika where are you?" Raye demanded later as she searched her quarters
"In your room" Annika called out in reply
"What may I ask are you doing in here?" Raye questioned her
"Just looking at all the pictures since Angela didn't have any in her room" Annika replied fingering one that they had taken a year ago at one of the many balls.
"When she is mad she throws them against the walls and Chad and I have decided that it would be best for everyone if nothing breakable was in her room" Raye sighed recalling the last time something had been destroyed.
"I'm sorry she is such a pain" Annika told her
"It's not your fault but we have tried everything" Raye answered softly
"Maybe I can try and talk to her" Annika offered
"Who knows maybe that will work but for now it's time we got ready for supper" Raye reminded her
"Sure and thanks for not getting to upset" Annika called out as she was leaving the room
"You're welcome" Raye responded turning to get dressed.
The next day after she had lessons with Ami, Annika decided to go and find Gloria. Since Gloria had been expelled she was home too. Mina and Asai were looking into boarding school for her. She got to Gloria's quarters only to find that she was not there. Annika suddenly remembered something important. She had witnessed Gloria running away and being hit by a car. It killed her. Was today the day? Annika took off to find Mina.
"Mina," she called.
"What is it Annika," asked Mina looking up from the brochure she was looking at.
"I think Gloria has run away," Annika reported.
"Why do you say that," asked Mina.
"She's gone," Annika choked.
Mina snapped out her communicator, "Scouts I need your help. Gloria had run away." Mina took off before Annika could say anything else. Annika decided to go take care of things herself.
Annika ran through Crystal Tokyo as she tried to get to the store that she saw Gloria at when she was brought here before. She finally got there just in time to see Gloria running out of the store with the manager on her tail. Gloria started across the street. Annika quickly ran forward and pushed Gloria out of the way just narrowly missing getting hit by a car.
"Oh my," gasped Gloria. "That car could have hit me."
"I know," Annika winced as she sat up.
"You're hurt," Gloria pointed out. Sure enough Annika's left side was completely scraped up.
"I'm okay," Annika gasped in pain.
"Gloria," Mina came running forward. She pulled Gloria into her arms. "I just saw what happened. I am so glad you are going to be all right."
"Mom I was running away," Gloria admitted.
"I know and we will talk about that," Mina picked Annika up. "But right now we need to have Ami look at Annika."
"There you go," Ami finished putting the bandages on Annika's injuries. "You are going to be fine."
"That was really brave of you," Raye told her. "I may not be your mother in this reality but I am as proud of you as I would be if I were your mother. I know that my other self is very proud of you in your reality."
"She is," Annika flushed. How she wanted to go home.
"Oh look the outsider gets special attention" Angela sneered as she came home a bit later
"Gee it's nice to see you to Angela" Annika shot back
"Where are my parents?" Angela demanded
"They are in their room trying to figure out what to do to help me get home" Annika whispered
"The sooner the better because I HATE having you here" Angela shouted
"Why do you hate me so much?" Annika questioned timidly
"You are such a goody two shoes and mom likes you better than me" Annika replied
"That may be true in some ways but mama Raye loves you just as much as she loves me" Annika reminded her
"Then why does she never show it" Angela cried running to her room and slamming the door.
"WHAT was that?" Raye demanded coming out of their room after hearing the door slam.
"Oh just Angela being mad at me" Annika sighed
"What did she do this time" Chad wondered aloud
"Nothing really but she really thinks you both like me better than her" Annika stated
"WHAT? We do love her but it's hard to show it when she is always getting into trouble" Chad said
"I guess you just may have to find a way to make it known to her" Annika stated quietly
"That's a big task considering but maybe we should at least try" Raye whispered.
"I saved Gloria so why can I not go home," Annika asked out loud later on.
"You are not done here yet," Meesha appeared.
"What more do I have left to do," asked Annika.
"You need to help Angela realize what wonderful parents she has," Meesha replied.
"How can I do that," asked Annika.
"Convince her how wonderful they are to you," Meesha replied.
"I'll see what I can do," murmured Annika.
Meanwhile Raye was talking with Serenity, Ami, Lita, and Mina. "I don't want to send Annika back," she stated.
"You have too Raye," Ami told her. "She does not belong here."
"I know," Raye sighed. "She is just everything I have always wanted in a child. She's sweet, loving and sensitive."
"She is a sweetie," Mina agreed. "But we still need to send her back."
"I know," Raye replied sadly.
"Just enjoy the time you have with her right now," Serenity advised.
"You have your own daughter to think about," Lita pointed out. "I know Angela is trying but maybe one day she will be closer to what Annika is like."
"Maybe," Raye sighed wistfully.
"Can I ask you something?" Gloria surprised Annika with her question
"Sure anything" Annika replied
"Why don't you stay here with me and your Mama Raye" Gloria sighed
"I really wish I could but my parents in my time would really miss me" Annika told her truthfully
"I will miss you though," Gloria cried hugging Annika
"I will miss you too but hopefully if you work really hard maybe you can convince your parents maybe to home school you or find a school close to here" Annika sighed
"Okay I will try but promise not to leave before seeing me again" Gloria stated
"I will try my very best" Annika replied smiling
"Well if it isn't Mommy's precious angel," snarled Angela as Annika walked into the room.
"Your parents love you," Annika pointed out. "Why can't you see that?"
"Because they are always spanking me," snapped Angela.
"That's because you are rude and mean," Annika softly replied as she fought to keep the tears down.
"Oh and I suppose you are little Miss Sweetie," Angela yelled.
Annika was usually sweet tempered but she had finally had it with this brat. "Why don't you just stop being such a brat and see how wonderful your parents are," she shouted. "I am very close to them in my reality. Mama and I always snuggle with each other. I bet Mama Raye would do that with you if you tried." With that Annika left the room leaving Angela thinking about what was said.
"Hey dad where is Mama?" Angela questioned a while later
"She and Aunt Lita went to the movies but she should be back very shortly" Chad replied
"Okay then can I ask you something?" Angela asked
"Sure what is it" Chad said putting down the paper he was reading
"Do you think Mama would like it if I started acting better" Angela stated
"She loves you honey but yes your mama would really love it if you did act nicer" Chad told her
"Daddy I love you" Angela said giving her dad a quick hug
"I love you too and oh I think here's your mama" Chad said glancing at the door
"MAMA" Angela said throwing herself at Raye
"Wha? What is going on" Raye stuttered
"I just wanted to tell you I love you very much" Angela cried hugging her mom
"Who are you and where is Angela?" Raye questioned
"It's really me mama I decided I wanted to try and be a little nicer" Angela commented through her tears
"Oh sweetheart you don't know how happy you have made me" Raye said picking Angela up.
In another room Annika watched the scene with a small smile on her face.
Raye came into the room and sat down by Annika. "How are you doing Sweetheart," she asked.
"I am ready to go home," Annika murmured.
"I wish you stay here," Raye told her sadly. "But I know you have to go too. I just don't know how to send you back."
"Actually the person who brought me here has appeared," Annika replied. "I just need to say some good-byes."
Raye looked sadly at Annika. "Then why don't you go and do that," she said. "I'll wait here. I want to be the last one you say goodbye too."
"Same here," Annika flung her arms around Raye. "You are just the same in this reality as you are in mine." Annika took off leaving Raye staring sadly at her.
"I am glad you came," Ami told Annika. "I know I have to keep a closer eye on Ariel until she gets over this obsession with finding Aurora."
"Do you act as a…" Annika's voice trailed off as she tried to think of the word.
"A what honey," asked Ami.
"You know one of those people who talk to other people about what's bothering them," Annika tried to think of the word.
"You mean a psychologist," Ami supplied. "Yes I do. I guess I need to schedule Ariel for some sessions about this."
"You are always seeing me in my reality," Annika told her.
"Really," Ami mused as she gave Annika a hug. "Well I hope I am helping you. Take care of yourself Sweetie."
"I will," Annika replied as she hugged Ami back.
"Hi Aunt Mina" Annika called out as Mina opened the door
"Hi Annika I guess this means it's time for you to go" Mina said sadly
"Yes but I wanted to come say goodbye to Gloria" Annika stated
"She is in her room" Mina replied
"Gloria?" Annika said entering the dark room
"I'm over here" a muffled reply came from the corner.
"What are you looking at?" Annika questioned walking over to the big window
"I like to look for shooting stars sometimes" Gloria mumbled
"Really me too" Annika sighed
"Oh look there's one right now" Gloria cried
"Let's make a wish," Annika said and they did
"I know why you came by," Gloria said as she went back to her bed and turned on the lamp
"I hate to go but I know I am missed at home" Annika sighed
"Well hopefully my wish will come true and I will make some new friends" Gloria stated
"Hopefully so but I will miss you" Annika said giving Gloria a hug
"I will miss you too," Gloria cried hugging Annika tightly
"I better go so I can tell Mama Raye goodbye" Annika commented as she walked out of the room
"Be careful Annika on your way home" Gloria whispered after Annika left.
"I am going to miss you so much," Raye hugged Annika fiercely.
"Thank you for being my mama while I was here," Annika hugged Raye back.
Raye smiled, "You are everything I have ever wanted in a daughter."
"Angela is going to try and change," Annika replied.
"She is trying," Raye kissed Annika on the head. "Take care and always stay sweet. That is a wonderful quality."
"I promise," Annika replied. She hugged Raye again; "I have to go now."
Raye watched as Annika walked away. "Good bye my darling," she whispered.
"Are you ready," asked Meesha.
"More than ready," Annika replied anxiously.
Meesha held up her hand and Annika felt something rush through her. Then she blacked out.
"Annika," a soft voice was saying. "Wake up Sweetheart."
Annika opened her eyes and saw she was in Ami's office. Raye was beside her. "Mama," she murmured.
"Take it easy," Ami cautioned. "Your body has been through some kind of shock."
"I visited the reality where I did not exist," Annika told them. "You were both nice to me over there but I could not wait to get home."
"Didn't Gloria go through that too," asked Raye.
"Yes she did," Ami replied. "Did you make some good changes over there?"
"I hope so," Annika replied. "But I could not wait to get back home."
"Well I am glad you are back," Raye hugged Annika. "I would miss you too much if you were gone."
"Just take it easy for the rest of the day," Ami ordered. "Give your body some time to recover."
"I will," Annika promised while Raye picked her up. Once out in the hall Annika snuggled down in her mother's arms. "I am so glad to be back Mama."
"I am glad to Sweetheart," Raye replied.
A scream interrupted them. They looked over and saw Mina dragging Gloria by the ear. "Can't you stay out of trouble for one evening," Mina was shouting. "I can't believe you flicked your food at Heather in the restaurant."
"It was just a joke," Gloria wailed.
"You need a long lesson in manners," Mina growled. "Maybe two weeks of being grounded will teach you."
Annika watched as Gloria was dragged away. Some things will never change.
Disclaimer: We do not own Sailor Moon. The Chibi Scouts with the exception of Rini belong to Angel Raye
I Don't Exist, Part Two
By
Angel Raye and Wonderful Miracle
"I wish there was something I could do" Annika sighed playing with Gloria
"About what Annika?" Gloria questioned
"Oh I just wish I could change some things that have happened lately" Annika replied
"Really? You talking about seeing life as if you had never existed?" Gloria asked
"Sort of. I would love to be able to help that girl change her attitude" Annika told her
"You are always wanting to help out people" Gloria reminded her
"I know but that's my nature where as your nature is to always be bad" Annika giggled
"I'm trying to change" Gloria shot back
"I know and you are doing a better job at it" Annika agreed.
"Glad someone notices," Gloria muttered dryly.
"Of course I notice," Annika pointed out.
"Gloria," called Mina coming into the playroom. "Come on we have to go now. We are meeting your aunt, uncle and cousin at the restaurant."
"You mean I have to have dinner with that drip Heather," whined Gloria.
"Drop that attitude young lady," Mina ordered. "And you had better not do anything to antagonize her tonight."
"I won't Mom," Gloria smiled. "I promise." Annika noticed that Gloria had her fingers crossed behind her. She giggled as Gloria and Mina left the room.
"She will never change," Annika thought to herself. She began to think about the reality where she did not exist. Her parents had a child, Angela who was a real brat. Annika wished she could show that child what wonderful parents Chad and Raye were.
Annika suddenly felt dizzy. The room around her began to spin. Remembering what Amy told her she put her head down and waited until the dizziness passed. When it did Annika decided to go and find her mother. She left the playroom and ran into Michiru and Haruka.
"Who are you dear," asked Michiru in surprise. "Are you friend of the twins?"
"Aunt Michiru it's me Annika," Annika told her.
"We don't remember you," Haruka replied.
"I'm Raye and Chad's daughter," Annika protested.
"Angela is Raye and Chad's daughter," Michiru informed her.
Annika gasped. She had been tossed into the reality Meesha had shown her earlier. Why was she here? "I think I have been tossed into another reality," she gasped. "Because I am their daughter in my reality."
"Who's this Michiru and Haruka," Raye came up.
"This child claims to be yours in another reality," Michiru explained.
Raye turned to Annika. She looked at her closely. Annika could not contain herself. She flung herself into Raye's arms. "Mama," she cried. "I am your daughter."
Raye pushed Annika off of her and looked at her closely. "I do feel a connection with you," she said. "Let's take you to Ami. She can check you over." Annika went with Raye to Ami's office.
"Amy do you have a minute?" Raye said walking into her office
"Sure what can I do for...Who is this?" Ami questioned
"This is Annika and she claims to be from another dimension" Raye told her
"That is fascinating. I better run some tests though to confirm it" Ami replied
"I hate tests" Annika whined
"How about if I stay with you" Raye whispered
"Okay" Annika shrugged following Ami into the other room
"I must admit you behaved better than my daughter would for Ami" Raye commented
"In my time I'm always sweet but I do hate to go to the doctor" Annika replied.
"Well you behaved really well for me and I did get the results" Ami said holding a piece of paper
"What does it say Ami?" Raye quizzed
"It proves that she is your daughter and as she said she is from another dimension" Ami read from the report
"Cool!" Annika squealed
"Okay thank you Ami and Annika why don't you come stay with us" Raye offered. "At least until we can figure out a way to get you back home."
"That would be great" Annika replied.
Annika followed Raye to her quarters. She was feeling a little apprehensive. She remembered in this reality Angela was a brat and Gloria was expelled from school. She also remembered that Gloria was killed in this reality. Would she be able to stop it?
"What can I call you," she asked timidly.
"Let's see," Raye murmured. "Why don't you call me Mama Raye?"
"That will work," Annika agreed happily.
Ariel came running down the hall. "Slow down Ariel where are you off to in such a hurry," Raye asked the small child.
"I am going to try and find Aurora again," Ariel called. Annika's heart skipped a beat. In this reality since she was not here Aurora hid the pearl of friendship in Ariel. Since Ariel was so young she was trying to do everything she could to get to Aurora.
"Poor baby," murmured Raye.
"Aurora hid the pearl in me," Annika whispered.
"Did she now," Raye asked in surprise. "Now you definitely seem to be the opposite of my child." Annika just smiled. Raye opened the door to her quarters and led Annika in. A six-year-old was sitting on the couch cutting up some material.
"What are you doing," shrieked Raye running over and grabbing the scissors and fabric from the little girl. Annika saw that the child had cut up her princess dress.
"I hate that dress and I hate those parties," Angela replied.
"This is why Daddy and I never get you new things," Raye shouted. "You destroy everything."
"Who cares," snapped Angela. She turned and saw Annika. "Who are you?"
"I…I…um," Annika stammered suddenly feeling very intimidated.
"This is Annika," Raye quickly explained the situation to the child. "Until we can figure out a way to get her home she will be staying with us."
"Well I hope it's soon," snapped Angela. "I don't want her here."
Raye suddenly turned Angela over and swatted her a couple of times. Angela began to howl. "Go to your room," Raye ordered. "And don't come out until I say you can." Angela stomped back to her room. Raye placed a reassuring hand on Annika's shoulder. "Don't worry we'll get you home soon." Annika hugged Raye and did not say anything.
"Mama Raye can I go find Gloria?" Annika asked later that afternoon
"Sure but you will probably have to convince Mina into letting you see her" Raye sighed wondering if it would work
"I can at least try" Annika replied walking out the door
"CAN I COME OUT?" Angela shouted from her room once Annika had left
"NO not till I say so" Raye replied wishing her daughter were more like Annika with each passing moment.
"Hello?" Mina questioned as she opened the door to her quarters
"Hi...umm I'm not sure" Annika started but was cut off by Gloria
"Who is it?" Gloria demanded from the couch
"It's that girl Raye found" Mina shot back
"I'm Annika and I was wondering if I could speak to Gloria" Annika asked shyly
"I'm not sure that is a good idea seeing as she is in a foul mood today" Mina commented
"Oh come on Mom what could it hurt" Gloria retorted
"Okay but only for 10 minutes" Mina scolded her as she let Annika into the room
"So your from another dimension" Gloria quizzed as Annika sat next to her on the couch
"Yep and in that dimension you and I are best friends" Annika told her
"Really how odd," Gloria sighed
"Why do you think that?" Annika asked
"Usually I don't associate with people much since I'm a troublemaker" Gloria stated.
"In my time you are a trouble maker too but you are also really nice to me and that is why we are friends" Annika said
"That must be nice" Gloria whispered
"It is most of the time" Annika sighed
"Maybe you and I can play together then sometime" Gloria commented
"That would be fun but I better get back to my quarters for now" Annika called out as she left.
"Is this her," asked Chad as Annika re-entered the quarters.
"That's her," Raye replied.
"She looks more like you then Angela does," Chad commented.
Annika flushed. "Hi Daddy Chad," she whispered.
"Nice to meet you Annika,' Chad replied.
"We have to go down to the palace dining hall for dinner in a little while," Raye told Annika. "Would you like to rest before we go?"
Annika suddenly wanted to go home. She would be out of place here since no one knew her. Her lower lip began to quiver. "What is it Annika," asked Raye. She was surprised when Annika suddenly climbed onto her lap and snuggled down. Angela never did this with her.
"I do this with Mama all the time,' sobbed Annika. "I miss it."
"It's okay," Raye assured the child as she held her close. "We can do this here too."
The next day over Ami's protests Annika did not go to school. Raye felt it would be a good idea to keep the child here until she felt comfortable in this other dimension. Annika found this amusing. Wait until Gloria found out that she did not have to go to school in this dimension. Ami went over some lessons with her and then let her go for the day. She was in the palace dining room when Asai, Mina and Gloria arrived from the school.
"This is a nightmare," Mina was screaming. "A complete nightmare."
"What happened," asked Serenity in concern.
"Our daughter has just gotten herself expelled from school," Asai replied grimly.
"Expelled," asked Lita in amazement.
"Yes," cried Mina. "Where are those boarding school pamphlets? I am going to find one for her."
"And I will run away if you do," shouted Gloria. Annika did not hear anymore. Mina and Asai dragged their troubled child upstairs.
"HEY what are you doing?" Angela demanded as Annika entered the playroom
"I came to read some" Annika said as she went to the reading corner
"Well you can't be here," Angela shouted as she walked over and took the book Annika had just picked up
"Why not?" Annika questioned
"Because I said so and I'm the boss" Angela shot back as she pushed Annika toward the door
"Don't do that" Ariel cried from the painting area
"And why not crybaby?" Angela demanded
"You don't want one of the nannies to come in do you" Faith reminded her
"Oh sure what can they do to me. I've got the outsider" Angela snorted
"What I'm about to do right now," Ves said stepping into the room and taking Angela by the shoulders
"Hey! Lay off I was just umm being friendly" Angela stammered struggling to get away
"Yeah right your mother will hear of this young lady" Ves commented dragging Angela out of the playroom
"Watch your back outsider" Angela whispered to Annika as she left
"Don't pay any mind to her threats" Maggie sighed after Angela had left
"Is she always like this?" Annika asked
"Most of the time she is much worse" Hope said
"Really? That is a bad thing" Annika commented
"Yes it is but maybe since you and her share the same parents you can get through to her" Ariel suggested
"I doubt it after that little show" Annika sighed
"Never know till you try" Madelyn said looking up from her puzzle.
Annika sighed. She was always told be careful what you wish for.
Later on Annika was walking around outside. She needed to clear her head. Annika knew she was there to change Angela but she did not know how she could do that. Annika really wanted to go home now. Even though Raye over here was just like her mother, she wasn't her mother. To Raye Annika was just some child who dropped in from another dimension.
A movement caught her eye. Annika looked and saw Ariel running toward a tree with costume wings on her back. Immediately Annika remembered that Ariel had been Aurora's special friend in this dimension and was obsessed with trying to find her. She also knew that Ariel was going to get badly hurt from this. "I have to go and get Ami," she thought and took off toward the palace.
"Ami," called Annika running into the palace.
"What is it dear," asked Ami.
"You had better get outside," gasped Annika. "Ariel needs you."
Ami did not question. She immediately headed outside with Annika at her heals. She saw Ariel up in the tree trying to stand on one of the branches. "Ariel," she shrieked and dashed over to the tree.
"Hi Mommy I am going to find Aurora now," called Ariel.
"Get down here this minute young lady," Ami ordered.
"No I am going to fly," Ariel replied and she jumped. Ami was ready. She dashed forward and caught Ariel in her arms. As soon as she had Ariel safe in her arms she turned the child over and swatted her. Ariel immediately started wailing.
"I'm sorry Darling," Ami told the child. "But you could have been seriously hurt and I am not going to let you get off lightly for this." Carrying Ariel she began to walk toward the palace. She paused for a moment and turned to Annika. "Thank you," she whispered and then walked back inside.
"Annika where are you?" Raye demanded later as she searched her quarters
"In your room" Annika called out in reply
"What may I ask are you doing in here?" Raye questioned her
"Just looking at all the pictures since Angela didn't have any in her room" Annika replied fingering one that they had taken a year ago at one of the many balls.
"When she is mad she throws them against the walls and Chad and I have decided that it would be best for everyone if nothing breakable was in her room" Raye sighed recalling the last time something had been destroyed.
"I'm sorry she is such a pain" Annika told her
"It's not your fault but we have tried everything" Raye answered softly
"Maybe I can try and talk to her" Annika offered
"Who knows maybe that will work but for now it's time we got ready for supper" Raye reminded her
"Sure and thanks for not getting to upset" Annika called out as she was leaving the room
"You're welcome" Raye responded turning to get dressed.
The next day after she had lessons with Ami, Annika decided to go and find Gloria. Since Gloria had been expelled she was home too. Mina and Asai were looking into boarding school for her. She got to Gloria's quarters only to find that she was not there. Annika suddenly remembered something important. She had witnessed Gloria running away and being hit by a car. It killed her. Was today the day? Annika took off to find Mina.
"Mina," she called.
"What is it Annika," asked Mina looking up from the brochure she was looking at.
"I think Gloria has run away," Annika reported.
"Why do you say that," asked Mina.
"She's gone," Annika choked.
Mina snapped out her communicator, "Scouts I need your help. Gloria had run away." Mina took off before Annika could say anything else. Annika decided to go take care of things herself.
Annika ran through Crystal Tokyo as she tried to get to the store that she saw Gloria at when she was brought here before. She finally got there just in time to see Gloria running out of the store with the manager on her tail. Gloria started across the street. Annika quickly ran forward and pushed Gloria out of the way just narrowly missing getting hit by a car.
"Oh my," gasped Gloria. "That car could have hit me."
"I know," Annika winced as she sat up.
"You're hurt," Gloria pointed out. Sure enough Annika's left side was completely scraped up.
"I'm okay," Annika gasped in pain.
"Gloria," Mina came running forward. She pulled Gloria into her arms. "I just saw what happened. I am so glad you are going to be all right."
"Mom I was running away," Gloria admitted.
"I know and we will talk about that," Mina picked Annika up. "But right now we need to have Ami look at Annika."
"There you go," Ami finished putting the bandages on Annika's injuries. "You are going to be fine."
"That was really brave of you," Raye told her. "I may not be your mother in this reality but I am as proud of you as I would be if I were your mother. I know that my other self is very proud of you in your reality."
"She is," Annika flushed. How she wanted to go home.
"Oh look the outsider gets special attention" Angela sneered as she came home a bit later
"Gee it's nice to see you to Angela" Annika shot back
"Where are my parents?" Angela demanded
"They are in their room trying to figure out what to do to help me get home" Annika whispered
"The sooner the better because I HATE having you here" Angela shouted
"Why do you hate me so much?" Annika questioned timidly
"You are such a goody two shoes and mom likes you better than me" Annika replied
"That may be true in some ways but mama Raye loves you just as much as she loves me" Annika reminded her
"Then why does she never show it" Angela cried running to her room and slamming the door.
"WHAT was that?" Raye demanded coming out of their room after hearing the door slam.
"Oh just Angela being mad at me" Annika sighed
"What did she do this time" Chad wondered aloud
"Nothing really but she really thinks you both like me better than her" Annika stated
"WHAT? We do love her but it's hard to show it when she is always getting into trouble" Chad said
"I guess you just may have to find a way to make it known to her" Annika stated quietly
"That's a big task considering but maybe we should at least try" Raye whispered.
"I saved Gloria so why can I not go home," Annika asked out loud later on.
"You are not done here yet," Meesha appeared.
"What more do I have left to do," asked Annika.
"You need to help Angela realize what wonderful parents she has," Meesha replied.
"How can I do that," asked Annika.
"Convince her how wonderful they are to you," Meesha replied.
"I'll see what I can do," murmured Annika.
Meanwhile Raye was talking with Serenity, Ami, Lita, and Mina. "I don't want to send Annika back," she stated.
"You have too Raye," Ami told her. "She does not belong here."
"I know," Raye sighed. "She is just everything I have always wanted in a child. She's sweet, loving and sensitive."
"She is a sweetie," Mina agreed. "But we still need to send her back."
"I know," Raye replied sadly.
"Just enjoy the time you have with her right now," Serenity advised.
"You have your own daughter to think about," Lita pointed out. "I know Angela is trying but maybe one day she will be closer to what Annika is like."
"Maybe," Raye sighed wistfully.
"Can I ask you something?" Gloria surprised Annika with her question
"Sure anything" Annika replied
"Why don't you stay here with me and your Mama Raye" Gloria sighed
"I really wish I could but my parents in my time would really miss me" Annika told her truthfully
"I will miss you though," Gloria cried hugging Annika
"I will miss you too but hopefully if you work really hard maybe you can convince your parents maybe to home school you or find a school close to here" Annika sighed
"Okay I will try but promise not to leave before seeing me again" Gloria stated
"I will try my very best" Annika replied smiling
"Well if it isn't Mommy's precious angel," snarled Angela as Annika walked into the room.
"Your parents love you," Annika pointed out. "Why can't you see that?"
"Because they are always spanking me," snapped Angela.
"That's because you are rude and mean," Annika softly replied as she fought to keep the tears down.
"Oh and I suppose you are little Miss Sweetie," Angela yelled.
Annika was usually sweet tempered but she had finally had it with this brat. "Why don't you just stop being such a brat and see how wonderful your parents are," she shouted. "I am very close to them in my reality. Mama and I always snuggle with each other. I bet Mama Raye would do that with you if you tried." With that Annika left the room leaving Angela thinking about what was said.
"Hey dad where is Mama?" Angela questioned a while later
"She and Aunt Lita went to the movies but she should be back very shortly" Chad replied
"Okay then can I ask you something?" Angela asked
"Sure what is it" Chad said putting down the paper he was reading
"Do you think Mama would like it if I started acting better" Angela stated
"She loves you honey but yes your mama would really love it if you did act nicer" Chad told her
"Daddy I love you" Angela said giving her dad a quick hug
"I love you too and oh I think here's your mama" Chad said glancing at the door
"MAMA" Angela said throwing herself at Raye
"Wha? What is going on" Raye stuttered
"I just wanted to tell you I love you very much" Angela cried hugging her mom
"Who are you and where is Angela?" Raye questioned
"It's really me mama I decided I wanted to try and be a little nicer" Angela commented through her tears
"Oh sweetheart you don't know how happy you have made me" Raye said picking Angela up.
In another room Annika watched the scene with a small smile on her face.
Raye came into the room and sat down by Annika. "How are you doing Sweetheart," she asked.
"I am ready to go home," Annika murmured.
"I wish you stay here," Raye told her sadly. "But I know you have to go too. I just don't know how to send you back."
"Actually the person who brought me here has appeared," Annika replied. "I just need to say some good-byes."
Raye looked sadly at Annika. "Then why don't you go and do that," she said. "I'll wait here. I want to be the last one you say goodbye too."
"Same here," Annika flung her arms around Raye. "You are just the same in this reality as you are in mine." Annika took off leaving Raye staring sadly at her.
"I am glad you came," Ami told Annika. "I know I have to keep a closer eye on Ariel until she gets over this obsession with finding Aurora."
"Do you act as a…" Annika's voice trailed off as she tried to think of the word.
"A what honey," asked Ami.
"You know one of those people who talk to other people about what's bothering them," Annika tried to think of the word.
"You mean a psychologist," Ami supplied. "Yes I do. I guess I need to schedule Ariel for some sessions about this."
"You are always seeing me in my reality," Annika told her.
"Really," Ami mused as she gave Annika a hug. "Well I hope I am helping you. Take care of yourself Sweetie."
"I will," Annika replied as she hugged Ami back.
"Hi Aunt Mina" Annika called out as Mina opened the door
"Hi Annika I guess this means it's time for you to go" Mina said sadly
"Yes but I wanted to come say goodbye to Gloria" Annika stated
"She is in her room" Mina replied
"Gloria?" Annika said entering the dark room
"I'm over here" a muffled reply came from the corner.
"What are you looking at?" Annika questioned walking over to the big window
"I like to look for shooting stars sometimes" Gloria mumbled
"Really me too" Annika sighed
"Oh look there's one right now" Gloria cried
"Let's make a wish," Annika said and they did
"I know why you came by," Gloria said as she went back to her bed and turned on the lamp
"I hate to go but I know I am missed at home" Annika sighed
"Well hopefully my wish will come true and I will make some new friends" Gloria stated
"Hopefully so but I will miss you" Annika said giving Gloria a hug
"I will miss you too," Gloria cried hugging Annika tightly
"I better go so I can tell Mama Raye goodbye" Annika commented as she walked out of the room
"Be careful Annika on your way home" Gloria whispered after Annika left.
"I am going to miss you so much," Raye hugged Annika fiercely.
"Thank you for being my mama while I was here," Annika hugged Raye back.
Raye smiled, "You are everything I have ever wanted in a daughter."
"Angela is going to try and change," Annika replied.
"She is trying," Raye kissed Annika on the head. "Take care and always stay sweet. That is a wonderful quality."
"I promise," Annika replied. She hugged Raye again; "I have to go now."
Raye watched as Annika walked away. "Good bye my darling," she whispered.
"Are you ready," asked Meesha.
"More than ready," Annika replied anxiously.
Meesha held up her hand and Annika felt something rush through her. Then she blacked out.
"Annika," a soft voice was saying. "Wake up Sweetheart."
Annika opened her eyes and saw she was in Ami's office. Raye was beside her. "Mama," she murmured.
"Take it easy," Ami cautioned. "Your body has been through some kind of shock."
"I visited the reality where I did not exist," Annika told them. "You were both nice to me over there but I could not wait to get home."
"Didn't Gloria go through that too," asked Raye.
"Yes she did," Ami replied. "Did you make some good changes over there?"
"I hope so," Annika replied. "But I could not wait to get back home."
"Well I am glad you are back," Raye hugged Annika. "I would miss you too much if you were gone."
"Just take it easy for the rest of the day," Ami ordered. "Give your body some time to recover."
"I will," Annika promised while Raye picked her up. Once out in the hall Annika snuggled down in her mother's arms. "I am so glad to be back Mama."
"I am glad to Sweetheart," Raye replied.
A scream interrupted them. They looked over and saw Mina dragging Gloria by the ear. "Can't you stay out of trouble for one evening," Mina was shouting. "I can't believe you flicked your food at Heather in the restaurant."
"It was just a joke," Gloria wailed.
"You need a long lesson in manners," Mina growled. "Maybe two weeks of being grounded will teach you."
Annika watched as Gloria was dragged away. Some things will never change.