Hi Everyone! Here is Part Seven to "Runaway." In this part we will be jumping back and forth in time as we start Celine's trial and continue with Tiffany's therapy. I will not be doing too much coverage on Celine's trial because I do not know much about the Japanese court system. Also if I have everyone testimonies then we will only be having repeats of the therapy sessions and Tiffany's time in the past.
Thank you to all of you who have given me feedback and suggestions.
If you or anyone you know is being abused then please tell to someone whether it's a teacher, counselor or friend. Or call the Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-96-Abuse
E-mail me with suggestions and feedback to AngelRaye2@aol.com.
Also visit my web site at http://angelrayeschibiscouts.homestead.com/angelraye.html
My web site is in the process of moving to another server. The new address will be www.angelfire.com/anime3/chibiscouts
Captain Commando has set up a Chibi Scout message board at http://pub53.ezboard.com/bangelrayeschibiscouts. Please drop by and leave a message.
Disclaimers: I do not own Sailor Moon. With the exception of Rini I own this generation of Sailor Scouts. I also created the Elysian Scouts and the Crystal Scouts.
Runaway
Part Seven
By
Angel Raye
[During the time of the Crystal Chibi Scouts...]
"You're going to defend me," Celine exclaimed in disbelief.
"Yes I am and I am going to tell you right now that all the evidence is against you," Cosmic Neptune pointed out. "If we're lucky I can get you probation but that is slim."
"Look I didn't want that child to begin with," Celine snapped. "All she has done is ruin my life."
"Sounds to me like you've ruined your own life," Cosmic Neptune muttered. She turned to Celine. "Let's get everything out on the table. I don't like you. I think you are cold and cruel. What you have done to your child is unforgivable. However, their majesties have assigned me to defend you. Right now I am the only chance you have. So I suggest we work together."
"Very well," Celine snapped. The two women glared at each other and then got to work.
[During the time of the Chibi Scouts...]
Tiffany was surprised when she arrived at her session to see Annika sitting in there with Amy. She knew Annika also had sessions with Amy but she wasn't expecting her to be here at the same time.
"Tiffany I asked Annika to come and talk to you for a few minutes today," Amy stated. "I'm going to be right here. I want you to listen to her."
"Okay," Tiffany replied nervously.
"I wanted to tell you that I got locked in a closet once," Annika told her.
"You did," Tiffany asked. "But it wasn't your mama who locked you in was it?"
"No," Annika shook her head. "It was some lady who worked here at the palace for a while. She hated kids and locked me in a dark closet. I was only five and it scared me."
"Who got you out," asked Tiffany.
"Mama, the Queen and the other Scouts," Annika replied. "I had to see Aunt Amy about it. She helped me to see that I was not only scared but also angry that Ms. Ito had locked me in there."
"Why were you angry," Tiffany asked next.
"Because she should not have locked me in there," Annika told her. "It was wrong. Aunt Amy also helped me to see that it wasn't my fault."
Tiffany stared at Annika. The other girl had said a lot to her. Amy reached over and squeezed Annika's hand. "Thank you Annika," she said. "You can go now."
"You're welcome Aunt Amy," Annika got up. She gave Amy a hug and then left.
Amy turned to Tiffany. "I just thought it might help for you to talk to someone who has been through something similar," she told her.
"But her mother loves her," Tiffany sadly pointed out. "Her mother would never lock her in a dark closet."
"I know that," Amy replied. "But she also found out it was okay to be angry."
"I'm not allowed to get angry," Tiffany whispered.
"Who told you that," Amy asked.
"My mother," Tiffany whispered. "She always told me I got angry then I would be punished."
"What would she do to you," Amy gently asked. She handed Tiffany some dolls. "Show me."
[Flashback]
Tiffany was sitting at the table drawing a picture. She was going to give it to her grandmother for her birthday. She was alone in her quarters right now which was the way she liked it. Happily humming a tune she carefully drew the picture the way she wanted to.
A slam of the door told Tiffany her mother was back. Her stomach immediately went into knots as fear built up inside of her. She remembered that she had not cleaned her room yet.
Celine came in and saw Tiffany drawing at the table. "What are you doing," she asked.
"Drawing a picture for Grandma," Tiffany replied nervously.
Celine glared at it. "It looks awful," she snapped. "You call that a good picture?"
"Grandma will like it," Tiffany cried as tears sprouted in her eyes.
"Oh she will," Celine snarled.
"Yes she will," Tiffany shouted. "Because Grandma loves me."
"And I will never know why," Celine grumbled. She snatched the picture out of Tiffany's hand and looked at it. "This is a piece of junk."
"Give it back," Tiffany pleaded.
"Oh you want it back," Celine asked in a spiteful voice. Tiffany nodded her head. "Then here you go," Celine ripped the picture up and dropped it to the ground.
"Mine," Tiffany shouted. She looked up and glared at her mother with anger in her eyes.
"Is that anger I see," Celine asked maliciously. "You aren't supposed to get angry. I told you if you ever got angry you would be punished." Celine slapped Tiffany across the face. Tiffany choked in anger but at attempt of bravery she glared back up at her mother. "Don't get angry and don't you dare cry," Celine shouted and she slapped Tiffany again.
"Stop it," Tiffany pleaded as her reserves started to drop.
"Don't tell me what to do," Celine ordered. She grabbed Tiffany by the ear and dragged her into the bathroom. She stuck Tiffany in the shower and turned the cold water on her.
"No Mother please it's so cold," Tiffany howled as the water soaked her. She began to shake with cold.
"Stop that useless crying," Celine screamed as she slapped Tiffany again. Tiffany continued to scream. "I told you if you ever got angry I would punish you." Celine turned the water off and dragged Tiffany out of the bathroom. Tiffany screamed as she tried to get away from her mother but she did not succeed. Celine dragged her over to the balcony door and opened it. She threw Tiffany out onto the balcony. It was winter so Tiffany gasped as the cold air hit her wet body. "You can just stay out there," Celine snapped. "And you had better not scream or your punishment will be even worse than this one." Celine slammed the door and locked it. Fear had taken over so Tiffany huddled up on the floor and tried to warm herself. She heard a light slam, which told her Celine had left their quarters. Tiffany was alone and frightened.
"Grandma," Great-grandma please find me," Tiffany thought to herself. How she wanted both of them right now. She shivered with cold.
After a while she heard footsteps coming from inside. Someone was back. She heard the balcony door open. She looked up and saw Mina and Celine. "What the," Mina exclaimed as she picked Tiffany up. "What happened to you?"
Tiffany wanted to tell her the truth but Celine was right there. "She's soaking wet," Mina cried. She turned and glared at Celine. "What happened?"
"I guess she got herself locked out again," Celine replied. "She does that sometimes."
"And how did she get so wet," Mina demanded as she started pulling the wet clothes off of Tiffany.
"She must have been playing with water before she went out," Celine stated. "You know how kids can be."
"Yeah right," Mina muttered as she picked Tiffany up again. "Come on let's get you into a warm bath before you catch cold." Tiffany wrapped her arms around Mina's neck and clung to her.
"Don't think I don't know what is going on," Mina icily told her granddaughter. "I know more than you think and you will not get away with it."
"I don't know what you are talking about Grandmother," Celine stated in an innocent voice.
"Oh you know," Mina grumbled as she ran a warm bath and put Tiffany in. The warm water felt good. She looked up at her great-grandmother with tears in her eyes. Mina smiled gently at her. "Don't worry my precious little Tiffany," Mina whispered as she kissed Tiffany on the forehead. "Things will get better one day."
"I'm cold," Tiffany choked.
"Celine she's spending the night with me tonight," Mina crossly informed her granddaughter.
"I didn't say she could," Celine snapped.
"I don't give a damn what you say," Mina shot back. "She is spending the night with me."
[End Flashback]
"That's why I could never get angry," Tiffany choked. "Mother would do things like that to me."
"You are not to blame for that," Amy gently assured Tiffany. "At least your grandmother and great-grandmother were there for you."
"Now I know what Great-grandma meant when she said things would get better one day," Tiffany whispered. "She remembered when I came here."
"Come here," Amy held out her arms. Tiffany went right into them. "We'll get through this. I promise."
That evening Tiffany was playing with Annika in her quarters. Mina was taking Gloria to see her favorite singer in concert. About a month ago Gloria had gone for a week without getting a note sent home from school. As a reward Mina had bought the concert tickets. Since it was before Tiffany came Mina only had two. With Tiffany still having a strong fear of men Mina knew leaving her with Asai would not do. So she asked Brooke to keep her until they got back. Brooke was only too happy to help. So Tiffany and Annika played together and had a great time.
"It must be ironic," Raye commented as she came up to Brooke.
"Nani," Brooke asked.
"Watching your young mother and godchild play together," Raye replied.
Brooke laughed. "Yes it is a little strange," she admitted. "But watching my mother as a child has given me a wonderful gift."
"And what would that be," Raye asked.
"I watch you with her and I now know how she turned out to be a wonderful mother," Brooke replied. "You're just so loving with her."
"She's very loving too," Raye pointed out.
"I know," Brooke whispered. "She still is."
"Annika you need to take your bath and start getting ready for bed now," Raye informed her daughter.
"Yes Mama," Annika replied as she got up and followed Raye into the bathroom.
"You should get ready for bed to Tiffany," Brooke added,
'But I'm not staying the night," Tiffany reminded her.
"Yes but Mama won't be back until late and she told me to put you to bed and she would come get you when she got back," Brooke told her.
"Okay," Tiffany sighed as she went into the spare room.
Later on Brooke was tucking Tiffany into the bed in the spare room where she was staying. "Aunt Brooke," Tiffany said. "Can I ask you something?"
"Anything," Brooke replied.
"How long are you going to stay," Tiffany asked. "Doesn't Tara and Ashley need you?"
"I promised your grandmother and great-grandmother I would keep an eye on you," Brooke replied. "So I will stay as long as I am needed here."
"Why does Mother hate me," Tiffany asked softly.
"I don't know honey," Brooke replied as she brushed a stray lock of hair out of Tiffany's face. "I had no idea your mother was doing all those things to you."
"No one knew," Tiffany replied. "She only did those things when it was just the two of us."
"I promise Tiffany," Brooke pulled the child into her arms. "Whatever happens I will be spending much more time with you."
Later on that evening Mina arrived to pick up Tiffany. The child was asleep. "Sorry I'm so late," Mina stated as she came in. "Gloria fell asleep on the way home so I had to get her to bed first."
"It's no problem," Brooke replied.
"We enjoyed having her," Raye added.
"How was she," asked Mina. "I know she had another rough session with Amy today."
"She was wondering why her mother hates her," Brooke told her.
"Amy told me she would ask questions like that," Mina sighed as she picked Tiffany up. The child stirred but did not wake.
"That's a question we all have right now," Raye pointed out. "I can't imagine not loving my daughter."
"None of us can," Mina muttered looking at the precious child in her arms.
"I wonder how things are going in the future," Brooke thought.
[During the time of the Crystal Chibi Scouts...]
Cosmic Venus and Venus stood in the Royal Courtroom waiting for the hearing to start. Elysian Mercury was sitting down going through her paperwork. Nearby Cosmic Neptune was working through the little bit of evidence she managed to get together. The rest of the Sailor Scouts were slowly coming in.
"Grandma," called a voice. Cosmic Venus looked up and saw Isao and Chomei coming in.
"Hello Boys," Cosmic Venus greeted them formally. Ever since she had learned of Celine's abuse toward Tiffany she was having a difficult time with the fact that her grandsons might have known about it."
"Grandma," Chomei stated. "We had no idea."
"Mother told us that Tiffany was the reason Dad left," Isao added. "She turned us against Tiffany."
"Do you know why your father left," Cosmic Venus asked.
"Why did he leave," Chomei asked.
"It wasn't because of Tiffany," Cosmic Venus replied. "He came to me a couple of nights before he left and told me. He caught Celine sleeping with the man who is now your stepfather. It broke his heart so he left. Your mother needed to blame someone else so she chose Tiffany who she never wanted anyway. Elysian Mercury has been searching for your father."
"Has she found him," Isao asked in a hopeful voice.
Cosmic Venus nodded her head. "I'm afraid he died shortly after he left," she replied. She saw the heartbroken look in the boys' eyes and she softened. "I'm sorry Boys. I am going to have to tell Tiffany too."
"Damn mother," Chomei growled. "She has really played us a fool these last several years."
"She drove Dad away and now she has driven our little sister away," Isao added. "I hope Tiffany can forgive us."
Cosmic Venus placed a hand on Isao's shoulder. "Tiffany will have to have a lot of therapy," she informed him. "But I believe with a lot of love and support she will forgive you."
"Thank you Grandma," Isao replied.
"Mother," called another voice. Cosmic Venus looked up and saw her youngest daughter had entered the courtroom.
"Minako," she cried and she ran over to embrace Minako.
"I thought you and Grandma could use some support today."
"We're so glad you came," Venus stated as she hugged Minako.
"Celine use to hit me too," Minako whispered.
"Oh honey I'm so sorry," Cosmic Venus choked. "How did my oldest daughter become so cruel?"
"We may never know," Venus sighed.
"All rise," Sailor Jupiter called. "The Royal Court will now come to order. Please greet the Royal Family."
Everyone stood as first Neo-Queen Serenity and King Endymion entered. Next Neo-Princess Rini and Prince Helios came in. They were followed Neo-Princess Chelsea and her husband Prince Jiro. Finally in walked Neo-Princess Rayna looking less than thrilled to be there. However since she was the princess it was her duty. Everyone bowed as the Royal family came in and stood in front of his or her thrones. Sailor Jupiter continued, "Sailor Saturn is presiding. Please stay standing to greet her."
Sailor Saturn entered. She was wearing her Scout uniform with a judge's robe over it. She took her place and banged on the table with her gavel. "Please be seated." Once everyone was sitting Saturn looked over the paper in front of her. "This is both a custody hearing and a child abuse trial. Are the representatives from both sides ready?"
"Yes your honor," Elysian Mercury replied.
"We are ready your honor," Cosmic Neptune added. "As we'll ever be."
"Then I will hear opening statements," Sailor Saturn ordered.
Elysian Mercury stood up. "Your majesties and you honor," she began. "Elysian Venus has been physically and psychologically abusing her daughter, Tiffany Aino for the last seven years. She has made it perfectly clear that she does not want the child and has given her no love. Cosmic Venus has filed for custody of seven-year-old Tiffany Aino. I believe it would be in the child's best interest that she lives with her grandmother. I ask that full custody is granted to Cosmic Venus and secondary custody is granted to Sailor Venus. We also ask for the maximum penalty for Elysian Venus and the removal of her powers."
"Thank you," Saturn replied. "Defense please."
Cosmic Neptune stood up. "Your majesties and your honor," she stated. "Elysian Venus has been a Sailor Scout for many years now. She has done her duties. She has provided a loving home for her two sons. There is evidence against her. We ask for probation and counseling is given to Elysian Venus. I believe with the proper help she can reform."
"Thank you," Saturn turned to Elysian Mercury. "Please call your first witness."
"I call Sailor Mercury to the stand," Elysian Mercury called.
Everyone watched as Sailor Mercury walked up. Sailor Jupiter swore her in. Everyone sat back and listened to Sailor Mercury's testimony of many years ago.
[During the time of the Chibi Scouts...]
Tiffany sat quietly in Amy's office playing with the toys that were available to her. Amy sat beside her and talked with her.
"How did you do in school Tiffany," asked Amy.
"All right," Tiffany mumbled. "It didn't matter because Mother would tell me any good grades I got were just from luck. She said a stupid, worthless person like me could never do well on her own."
"How terrible," Amy thought to herself. She reached down and took Tiffany's small hand in hers. "I want you to stop believing all those things your mother told you. You are not stupid or worthless. You are a beautiful, sweet, little girl who will be a success. Please remember that. Did you try hard in school?"
"Yes," Tiffany replied. "It was really bad if I ever brought a bad grade home."
[Flashback]
Tiffany was worried about her math test. She had failed it. Now she was going to have to get it signed. "If I can find Grandma or Great-grandma first maybe one of them can sign it." Sometimes Tiffany would be lucky and be able to find either Mina or Gloria before her mother found the test. They were always happy to sign the tests and they never told Celine. She got home to her quarters and found them empty. Relieved she put her bookbag down and dug out her test. She started to head out the door when Celine entered. Gasping in surprise Tiffany quickly put her test behind her back.
"What are you hiding," Celine asked suspiciously.
"N...n...nothing Ma'am," Tiffany stuttered nervously.
"Yes you are," Celine snapped. She held out her hand. "Give it to me."
"I don't have anything," Tiffany insisted.
"Yes you do," Celine screamed as she grabbed Tiffany's braid. Tiffany gave a cry of pain. Celine brutally took hold of Tiffany's arm and found the test paper. She snatched it out of her hands and then pushed Tiffany to the floor. She saw the test grade. "What's this," she screamed as she slapped Tiffany across the face. "I knew someone as stupid as you couldn't do well. Not only are you stupid but you are conniving. You were planning to take this to your grandma or great-grandma weren't you?"
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany sobbed.
"Stop that crying," Celine shouted as she slapped Tiffany again. She glared at the test. "I didn't even want you. But I was told to have you. Not only did I have to have you but I got stuck with a worthless child who can't do anything."
"Then let me live with Grandma," Tiffany cried.
Celine angrily grabbed one of Tiffany's braids and pulled her to her feet. Tiffany began to cry harder. "Stop that worthless noise," she coldly ordered. "Now what do we say?"
"I am a worthless individual who isn't wanted and will never mount to anything," Tiffany whispered.
"And you never will," Celine snarled. "You do not deserve any love at all."
[End Flashback]
Tiffany was crying very hard. She clutched her teddy bear to her chest. Amy knelt down beside her and put her hands on Tiffany's shoulders. "You do deserve love," she assured her. "Everyone deserves love. How your mother treated you is not your fault."
"She always told me everything was my fault," sobbed Tiffany. "She told me that I would never deserve love."
"You are loved," Amy told her. "Your grandmother and great-grandmother love you. And here in this time everyone at the palace loves you. Your Aunt Brooke also loves you very much."
"Really," Tiffany asked.
"Really," Amy confirmed. "There are many people who love you." Tiffany accepted Amy's loving embrace. She would never go back home.
After Tiffany's therapy session Mina came and got her. Mina saw that the child was still crying. Smiling, she picked Tiffany up and carried her out of the office. Mina took Tiffany down to her office and sat down with her. Tiffany snuggled up against Mina enjoying the warmth she felt.
"Mama can I ask you something," she asked.
"Anything," Mina replied.
"Mother always told me that I don't deserve love," Tiffany stated. "But Aunt Amy told me I do."
"And she's right," Mina confirmed.
"Do you love me," asked Tiffany. "I know in the future you do but do you love me here and now?"
"Of course I do," Mina replied as she pulled Tiffany into a fierce hug. "In the last several weeks I have grown to love you as my own daughter."
"You do," Tiffany cried in delight.
"Yes," Mina exclaimed.
"I love you Mama," Tiffany cried.
"I love you too honey," Mina hugged the child tightly. "Please forgive me in the future sweet one."
[During the time of the Crystal Chibi Scouts...]
Cosmic Venus was sick to her stomach. For the last two days she sat and listened to testimonies from her mother, Sailor Mercury and all the other original Scouts who had statements from when Tiffany was with them in the past. She listened to Elysian Mercury read Elysian Mars's written statement. She had watched the tape of Tiffany's sessions with Amy as she played out the abuse Celine had given her. She could not believe her daughter had done all of this. All this time Elysian Venus sat by Cosmic Neptune, her face devoid of emotion. Cosmic Neptune had very little evidence to back up her case. Chomei and Isao had to testify on behalf of their mother. After all she had given them a lot of love. Elysian Venus was not placed on the stand.
"Well I have heard both sides of the case," Saturn stated. "If there aren't any more witnesses then I will make my decision."
"Wait," a voice called. Everyone turned and saw Minako had stood up. "I would like to testify on behalf of my niece Tiffany."
To be continued...
We are wrapping up this story. There will be at least one more part and an epilogue.
Thank you to all of you who have given me feedback and suggestions.
If you or anyone you know is being abused then please tell to someone whether it's a teacher, counselor or friend. Or call the Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-96-Abuse
E-mail me with suggestions and feedback to AngelRaye2@aol.com.
Also visit my web site at http://angelrayeschibiscouts.homestead.com/angelraye.html
My web site is in the process of moving to another server. The new address will be www.angelfire.com/anime3/chibiscouts
Captain Commando has set up a Chibi Scout message board at http://pub53.ezboard.com/bangelrayeschibiscouts. Please drop by and leave a message.
Disclaimers: I do not own Sailor Moon. With the exception of Rini I own this generation of Sailor Scouts. I also created the Elysian Scouts and the Crystal Scouts.
Runaway
Part Seven
By
Angel Raye
[During the time of the Crystal Chibi Scouts...]
"You're going to defend me," Celine exclaimed in disbelief.
"Yes I am and I am going to tell you right now that all the evidence is against you," Cosmic Neptune pointed out. "If we're lucky I can get you probation but that is slim."
"Look I didn't want that child to begin with," Celine snapped. "All she has done is ruin my life."
"Sounds to me like you've ruined your own life," Cosmic Neptune muttered. She turned to Celine. "Let's get everything out on the table. I don't like you. I think you are cold and cruel. What you have done to your child is unforgivable. However, their majesties have assigned me to defend you. Right now I am the only chance you have. So I suggest we work together."
"Very well," Celine snapped. The two women glared at each other and then got to work.
[During the time of the Chibi Scouts...]
Tiffany was surprised when she arrived at her session to see Annika sitting in there with Amy. She knew Annika also had sessions with Amy but she wasn't expecting her to be here at the same time.
"Tiffany I asked Annika to come and talk to you for a few minutes today," Amy stated. "I'm going to be right here. I want you to listen to her."
"Okay," Tiffany replied nervously.
"I wanted to tell you that I got locked in a closet once," Annika told her.
"You did," Tiffany asked. "But it wasn't your mama who locked you in was it?"
"No," Annika shook her head. "It was some lady who worked here at the palace for a while. She hated kids and locked me in a dark closet. I was only five and it scared me."
"Who got you out," asked Tiffany.
"Mama, the Queen and the other Scouts," Annika replied. "I had to see Aunt Amy about it. She helped me to see that I was not only scared but also angry that Ms. Ito had locked me in there."
"Why were you angry," Tiffany asked next.
"Because she should not have locked me in there," Annika told her. "It was wrong. Aunt Amy also helped me to see that it wasn't my fault."
Tiffany stared at Annika. The other girl had said a lot to her. Amy reached over and squeezed Annika's hand. "Thank you Annika," she said. "You can go now."
"You're welcome Aunt Amy," Annika got up. She gave Amy a hug and then left.
Amy turned to Tiffany. "I just thought it might help for you to talk to someone who has been through something similar," she told her.
"But her mother loves her," Tiffany sadly pointed out. "Her mother would never lock her in a dark closet."
"I know that," Amy replied. "But she also found out it was okay to be angry."
"I'm not allowed to get angry," Tiffany whispered.
"Who told you that," Amy asked.
"My mother," Tiffany whispered. "She always told me I got angry then I would be punished."
"What would she do to you," Amy gently asked. She handed Tiffany some dolls. "Show me."
[Flashback]
Tiffany was sitting at the table drawing a picture. She was going to give it to her grandmother for her birthday. She was alone in her quarters right now which was the way she liked it. Happily humming a tune she carefully drew the picture the way she wanted to.
A slam of the door told Tiffany her mother was back. Her stomach immediately went into knots as fear built up inside of her. She remembered that she had not cleaned her room yet.
Celine came in and saw Tiffany drawing at the table. "What are you doing," she asked.
"Drawing a picture for Grandma," Tiffany replied nervously.
Celine glared at it. "It looks awful," she snapped. "You call that a good picture?"
"Grandma will like it," Tiffany cried as tears sprouted in her eyes.
"Oh she will," Celine snarled.
"Yes she will," Tiffany shouted. "Because Grandma loves me."
"And I will never know why," Celine grumbled. She snatched the picture out of Tiffany's hand and looked at it. "This is a piece of junk."
"Give it back," Tiffany pleaded.
"Oh you want it back," Celine asked in a spiteful voice. Tiffany nodded her head. "Then here you go," Celine ripped the picture up and dropped it to the ground.
"Mine," Tiffany shouted. She looked up and glared at her mother with anger in her eyes.
"Is that anger I see," Celine asked maliciously. "You aren't supposed to get angry. I told you if you ever got angry you would be punished." Celine slapped Tiffany across the face. Tiffany choked in anger but at attempt of bravery she glared back up at her mother. "Don't get angry and don't you dare cry," Celine shouted and she slapped Tiffany again.
"Stop it," Tiffany pleaded as her reserves started to drop.
"Don't tell me what to do," Celine ordered. She grabbed Tiffany by the ear and dragged her into the bathroom. She stuck Tiffany in the shower and turned the cold water on her.
"No Mother please it's so cold," Tiffany howled as the water soaked her. She began to shake with cold.
"Stop that useless crying," Celine screamed as she slapped Tiffany again. Tiffany continued to scream. "I told you if you ever got angry I would punish you." Celine turned the water off and dragged Tiffany out of the bathroom. Tiffany screamed as she tried to get away from her mother but she did not succeed. Celine dragged her over to the balcony door and opened it. She threw Tiffany out onto the balcony. It was winter so Tiffany gasped as the cold air hit her wet body. "You can just stay out there," Celine snapped. "And you had better not scream or your punishment will be even worse than this one." Celine slammed the door and locked it. Fear had taken over so Tiffany huddled up on the floor and tried to warm herself. She heard a light slam, which told her Celine had left their quarters. Tiffany was alone and frightened.
"Grandma," Great-grandma please find me," Tiffany thought to herself. How she wanted both of them right now. She shivered with cold.
After a while she heard footsteps coming from inside. Someone was back. She heard the balcony door open. She looked up and saw Mina and Celine. "What the," Mina exclaimed as she picked Tiffany up. "What happened to you?"
Tiffany wanted to tell her the truth but Celine was right there. "She's soaking wet," Mina cried. She turned and glared at Celine. "What happened?"
"I guess she got herself locked out again," Celine replied. "She does that sometimes."
"And how did she get so wet," Mina demanded as she started pulling the wet clothes off of Tiffany.
"She must have been playing with water before she went out," Celine stated. "You know how kids can be."
"Yeah right," Mina muttered as she picked Tiffany up again. "Come on let's get you into a warm bath before you catch cold." Tiffany wrapped her arms around Mina's neck and clung to her.
"Don't think I don't know what is going on," Mina icily told her granddaughter. "I know more than you think and you will not get away with it."
"I don't know what you are talking about Grandmother," Celine stated in an innocent voice.
"Oh you know," Mina grumbled as she ran a warm bath and put Tiffany in. The warm water felt good. She looked up at her great-grandmother with tears in her eyes. Mina smiled gently at her. "Don't worry my precious little Tiffany," Mina whispered as she kissed Tiffany on the forehead. "Things will get better one day."
"I'm cold," Tiffany choked.
"Celine she's spending the night with me tonight," Mina crossly informed her granddaughter.
"I didn't say she could," Celine snapped.
"I don't give a damn what you say," Mina shot back. "She is spending the night with me."
[End Flashback]
"That's why I could never get angry," Tiffany choked. "Mother would do things like that to me."
"You are not to blame for that," Amy gently assured Tiffany. "At least your grandmother and great-grandmother were there for you."
"Now I know what Great-grandma meant when she said things would get better one day," Tiffany whispered. "She remembered when I came here."
"Come here," Amy held out her arms. Tiffany went right into them. "We'll get through this. I promise."
That evening Tiffany was playing with Annika in her quarters. Mina was taking Gloria to see her favorite singer in concert. About a month ago Gloria had gone for a week without getting a note sent home from school. As a reward Mina had bought the concert tickets. Since it was before Tiffany came Mina only had two. With Tiffany still having a strong fear of men Mina knew leaving her with Asai would not do. So she asked Brooke to keep her until they got back. Brooke was only too happy to help. So Tiffany and Annika played together and had a great time.
"It must be ironic," Raye commented as she came up to Brooke.
"Nani," Brooke asked.
"Watching your young mother and godchild play together," Raye replied.
Brooke laughed. "Yes it is a little strange," she admitted. "But watching my mother as a child has given me a wonderful gift."
"And what would that be," Raye asked.
"I watch you with her and I now know how she turned out to be a wonderful mother," Brooke replied. "You're just so loving with her."
"She's very loving too," Raye pointed out.
"I know," Brooke whispered. "She still is."
"Annika you need to take your bath and start getting ready for bed now," Raye informed her daughter.
"Yes Mama," Annika replied as she got up and followed Raye into the bathroom.
"You should get ready for bed to Tiffany," Brooke added,
'But I'm not staying the night," Tiffany reminded her.
"Yes but Mama won't be back until late and she told me to put you to bed and she would come get you when she got back," Brooke told her.
"Okay," Tiffany sighed as she went into the spare room.
Later on Brooke was tucking Tiffany into the bed in the spare room where she was staying. "Aunt Brooke," Tiffany said. "Can I ask you something?"
"Anything," Brooke replied.
"How long are you going to stay," Tiffany asked. "Doesn't Tara and Ashley need you?"
"I promised your grandmother and great-grandmother I would keep an eye on you," Brooke replied. "So I will stay as long as I am needed here."
"Why does Mother hate me," Tiffany asked softly.
"I don't know honey," Brooke replied as she brushed a stray lock of hair out of Tiffany's face. "I had no idea your mother was doing all those things to you."
"No one knew," Tiffany replied. "She only did those things when it was just the two of us."
"I promise Tiffany," Brooke pulled the child into her arms. "Whatever happens I will be spending much more time with you."
Later on that evening Mina arrived to pick up Tiffany. The child was asleep. "Sorry I'm so late," Mina stated as she came in. "Gloria fell asleep on the way home so I had to get her to bed first."
"It's no problem," Brooke replied.
"We enjoyed having her," Raye added.
"How was she," asked Mina. "I know she had another rough session with Amy today."
"She was wondering why her mother hates her," Brooke told her.
"Amy told me she would ask questions like that," Mina sighed as she picked Tiffany up. The child stirred but did not wake.
"That's a question we all have right now," Raye pointed out. "I can't imagine not loving my daughter."
"None of us can," Mina muttered looking at the precious child in her arms.
"I wonder how things are going in the future," Brooke thought.
[During the time of the Crystal Chibi Scouts...]
Cosmic Venus and Venus stood in the Royal Courtroom waiting for the hearing to start. Elysian Mercury was sitting down going through her paperwork. Nearby Cosmic Neptune was working through the little bit of evidence she managed to get together. The rest of the Sailor Scouts were slowly coming in.
"Grandma," called a voice. Cosmic Venus looked up and saw Isao and Chomei coming in.
"Hello Boys," Cosmic Venus greeted them formally. Ever since she had learned of Celine's abuse toward Tiffany she was having a difficult time with the fact that her grandsons might have known about it."
"Grandma," Chomei stated. "We had no idea."
"Mother told us that Tiffany was the reason Dad left," Isao added. "She turned us against Tiffany."
"Do you know why your father left," Cosmic Venus asked.
"Why did he leave," Chomei asked.
"It wasn't because of Tiffany," Cosmic Venus replied. "He came to me a couple of nights before he left and told me. He caught Celine sleeping with the man who is now your stepfather. It broke his heart so he left. Your mother needed to blame someone else so she chose Tiffany who she never wanted anyway. Elysian Mercury has been searching for your father."
"Has she found him," Isao asked in a hopeful voice.
Cosmic Venus nodded her head. "I'm afraid he died shortly after he left," she replied. She saw the heartbroken look in the boys' eyes and she softened. "I'm sorry Boys. I am going to have to tell Tiffany too."
"Damn mother," Chomei growled. "She has really played us a fool these last several years."
"She drove Dad away and now she has driven our little sister away," Isao added. "I hope Tiffany can forgive us."
Cosmic Venus placed a hand on Isao's shoulder. "Tiffany will have to have a lot of therapy," she informed him. "But I believe with a lot of love and support she will forgive you."
"Thank you Grandma," Isao replied.
"Mother," called another voice. Cosmic Venus looked up and saw her youngest daughter had entered the courtroom.
"Minako," she cried and she ran over to embrace Minako.
"I thought you and Grandma could use some support today."
"We're so glad you came," Venus stated as she hugged Minako.
"Celine use to hit me too," Minako whispered.
"Oh honey I'm so sorry," Cosmic Venus choked. "How did my oldest daughter become so cruel?"
"We may never know," Venus sighed.
"All rise," Sailor Jupiter called. "The Royal Court will now come to order. Please greet the Royal Family."
Everyone stood as first Neo-Queen Serenity and King Endymion entered. Next Neo-Princess Rini and Prince Helios came in. They were followed Neo-Princess Chelsea and her husband Prince Jiro. Finally in walked Neo-Princess Rayna looking less than thrilled to be there. However since she was the princess it was her duty. Everyone bowed as the Royal family came in and stood in front of his or her thrones. Sailor Jupiter continued, "Sailor Saturn is presiding. Please stay standing to greet her."
Sailor Saturn entered. She was wearing her Scout uniform with a judge's robe over it. She took her place and banged on the table with her gavel. "Please be seated." Once everyone was sitting Saturn looked over the paper in front of her. "This is both a custody hearing and a child abuse trial. Are the representatives from both sides ready?"
"Yes your honor," Elysian Mercury replied.
"We are ready your honor," Cosmic Neptune added. "As we'll ever be."
"Then I will hear opening statements," Sailor Saturn ordered.
Elysian Mercury stood up. "Your majesties and you honor," she began. "Elysian Venus has been physically and psychologically abusing her daughter, Tiffany Aino for the last seven years. She has made it perfectly clear that she does not want the child and has given her no love. Cosmic Venus has filed for custody of seven-year-old Tiffany Aino. I believe it would be in the child's best interest that she lives with her grandmother. I ask that full custody is granted to Cosmic Venus and secondary custody is granted to Sailor Venus. We also ask for the maximum penalty for Elysian Venus and the removal of her powers."
"Thank you," Saturn replied. "Defense please."
Cosmic Neptune stood up. "Your majesties and your honor," she stated. "Elysian Venus has been a Sailor Scout for many years now. She has done her duties. She has provided a loving home for her two sons. There is evidence against her. We ask for probation and counseling is given to Elysian Venus. I believe with the proper help she can reform."
"Thank you," Saturn turned to Elysian Mercury. "Please call your first witness."
"I call Sailor Mercury to the stand," Elysian Mercury called.
Everyone watched as Sailor Mercury walked up. Sailor Jupiter swore her in. Everyone sat back and listened to Sailor Mercury's testimony of many years ago.
[During the time of the Chibi Scouts...]
Tiffany sat quietly in Amy's office playing with the toys that were available to her. Amy sat beside her and talked with her.
"How did you do in school Tiffany," asked Amy.
"All right," Tiffany mumbled. "It didn't matter because Mother would tell me any good grades I got were just from luck. She said a stupid, worthless person like me could never do well on her own."
"How terrible," Amy thought to herself. She reached down and took Tiffany's small hand in hers. "I want you to stop believing all those things your mother told you. You are not stupid or worthless. You are a beautiful, sweet, little girl who will be a success. Please remember that. Did you try hard in school?"
"Yes," Tiffany replied. "It was really bad if I ever brought a bad grade home."
[Flashback]
Tiffany was worried about her math test. She had failed it. Now she was going to have to get it signed. "If I can find Grandma or Great-grandma first maybe one of them can sign it." Sometimes Tiffany would be lucky and be able to find either Mina or Gloria before her mother found the test. They were always happy to sign the tests and they never told Celine. She got home to her quarters and found them empty. Relieved she put her bookbag down and dug out her test. She started to head out the door when Celine entered. Gasping in surprise Tiffany quickly put her test behind her back.
"What are you hiding," Celine asked suspiciously.
"N...n...nothing Ma'am," Tiffany stuttered nervously.
"Yes you are," Celine snapped. She held out her hand. "Give it to me."
"I don't have anything," Tiffany insisted.
"Yes you do," Celine screamed as she grabbed Tiffany's braid. Tiffany gave a cry of pain. Celine brutally took hold of Tiffany's arm and found the test paper. She snatched it out of her hands and then pushed Tiffany to the floor. She saw the test grade. "What's this," she screamed as she slapped Tiffany across the face. "I knew someone as stupid as you couldn't do well. Not only are you stupid but you are conniving. You were planning to take this to your grandma or great-grandma weren't you?"
"Yes Ma'am," Tiffany sobbed.
"Stop that crying," Celine shouted as she slapped Tiffany again. She glared at the test. "I didn't even want you. But I was told to have you. Not only did I have to have you but I got stuck with a worthless child who can't do anything."
"Then let me live with Grandma," Tiffany cried.
Celine angrily grabbed one of Tiffany's braids and pulled her to her feet. Tiffany began to cry harder. "Stop that worthless noise," she coldly ordered. "Now what do we say?"
"I am a worthless individual who isn't wanted and will never mount to anything," Tiffany whispered.
"And you never will," Celine snarled. "You do not deserve any love at all."
[End Flashback]
Tiffany was crying very hard. She clutched her teddy bear to her chest. Amy knelt down beside her and put her hands on Tiffany's shoulders. "You do deserve love," she assured her. "Everyone deserves love. How your mother treated you is not your fault."
"She always told me everything was my fault," sobbed Tiffany. "She told me that I would never deserve love."
"You are loved," Amy told her. "Your grandmother and great-grandmother love you. And here in this time everyone at the palace loves you. Your Aunt Brooke also loves you very much."
"Really," Tiffany asked.
"Really," Amy confirmed. "There are many people who love you." Tiffany accepted Amy's loving embrace. She would never go back home.
After Tiffany's therapy session Mina came and got her. Mina saw that the child was still crying. Smiling, she picked Tiffany up and carried her out of the office. Mina took Tiffany down to her office and sat down with her. Tiffany snuggled up against Mina enjoying the warmth she felt.
"Mama can I ask you something," she asked.
"Anything," Mina replied.
"Mother always told me that I don't deserve love," Tiffany stated. "But Aunt Amy told me I do."
"And she's right," Mina confirmed.
"Do you love me," asked Tiffany. "I know in the future you do but do you love me here and now?"
"Of course I do," Mina replied as she pulled Tiffany into a fierce hug. "In the last several weeks I have grown to love you as my own daughter."
"You do," Tiffany cried in delight.
"Yes," Mina exclaimed.
"I love you Mama," Tiffany cried.
"I love you too honey," Mina hugged the child tightly. "Please forgive me in the future sweet one."
[During the time of the Crystal Chibi Scouts...]
Cosmic Venus was sick to her stomach. For the last two days she sat and listened to testimonies from her mother, Sailor Mercury and all the other original Scouts who had statements from when Tiffany was with them in the past. She listened to Elysian Mercury read Elysian Mars's written statement. She had watched the tape of Tiffany's sessions with Amy as she played out the abuse Celine had given her. She could not believe her daughter had done all of this. All this time Elysian Venus sat by Cosmic Neptune, her face devoid of emotion. Cosmic Neptune had very little evidence to back up her case. Chomei and Isao had to testify on behalf of their mother. After all she had given them a lot of love. Elysian Venus was not placed on the stand.
"Well I have heard both sides of the case," Saturn stated. "If there aren't any more witnesses then I will make my decision."
"Wait," a voice called. Everyone turned and saw Minako had stood up. "I would like to testify on behalf of my niece Tiffany."
To be continued...
We are wrapping up this story. There will be at least one more part and an epilogue.