Hi Everyone! I got inspired to start a new series. This is the "Friendship Series." I thought it would be interesting to explore the close friendships the Chibi Scouts have with each other. Each part will start pretty much when the girls are babies so we will get to see some more of their lives before they became soldiers. Also since Annika and Gloria so far have the most established friendship theirs is being broken up into two parts. The others may be broken up into two parts too but I won't know until I start writing them. Please review but no flames. Also please see the end for credits.
Part One: Annika and Gloria (Subparts A and B)
Part Two: Ariel and Madelyn
Part Three: Daisy and Maggie
Part Four: Hope and Faith
E-mail me with suggestions and feedback to AngelRaye2@aol.com.
Also visit my web site at http://angelrayeschibiscouts.homestead.com/angelraye.html
Disclaimers: I do not own Sailor Moon. With the exception of Rini I own this generation of Sailor Scouts.

Friendship Series
Part One: Annika and Gloria
Subpart A
By
Angel Raye

One week after the birth of Annika...

Raye gazed lovingly down at the infant in her arms. She could still not believe it. This child was hers and Chad's created from their love. Annika was only a week old but the love Raye felt for her seemed to go back further. So far it had been a tiring week. Annika woke up at least two times a night demanding a feeding. Since Raye was nursing her Chad could not help too much. Raye did not mind. Annika was worth every ounce of time she took.
A knock at the door snapped Raye out of her thoughts. "Come in," she called. Mina came in carrying her eight-month-old daughter Gloria.
"How's the new mother," she asked.
"Still a little overwhelmed I guess," Raye sighed. "But I never thought it was possible to love someone this much in such a short amount of time."
"I know the feeling," Mina set Gloria down on the floor. Gloria immediately started crawling around. Raye gazed at the active crawler.
"I find it hard to believe that in a few short months Annika will be doing that," she mused.
"You just better hope Annika won't be as active as this one," Mina groaned. "I have had to completely child proof our quarters. She gets into everything."
"I just think of when these two visited us in the past they were close friends," Raye recalled.
"They'll be in the same grade because of where Gloria's birthday falls," Mina pointed out. "I just wonder when the close friendship will develop."
"Only time will tell," Raye gazed back down at Annika who opened her eyes and gave an enormous yawn. "Hi Sweetie," Raye whispered. "Are you hungry?" Annika began to whimper in response. Raye opened her shirt and began feeding her baby. Mina watched her own baby and began thinking. When was the close friendship going to develop?

******

Two years later...
"I don't know how Palla and Ves do it," Raye gasped as she sat down. She and Mina watched as the children played. Everyone had just had dinner in the dining hall and now settled into the main living room.
"Neither do I," Mina agreed. "And in less than two months there will be another one to take care of."
"Whenever Ariel decides to make her appearance in the world," laughed Lita. Right now Amy was pregnant with her daughter. She smiled shyly and put her hand on her large belly.
"She's been moving around quite a bit lately," Amy observed. "It's usually when I am trying to sleep."
"I know the feeling," Serenity laughed. "I thought Rini was going to kick her way out of me."
A scream interrupted the conversation. They looked and saw that Gloria had grabbed a fistful of Hope's hair. Hope was screaming. "Gloria let go," Mina cried as she got up. Michiru picked up Hope and began to comfort her. Mina swatted Gloria on the behind. Gloria began to cry. "You don't do that," Mina sternly told her daughter. Gloria wiped her eyes and pouted.
"I don't know how you do it," Hotaru stated as she looked up from feeding Madelyn.
"Neither do I," Mina muttered.
Annika came running around the corner. She tripped and fell, smacking her chin against the table. She immediately began to wail. Raye jumped up and ran over to her. "It's okay Darling," Raye picked her up. Annika buried her head in Raye's shoulder.
"Let me take a look," Amy came over. She examined Annika's chin. "An ice pack will take care of that."
Gloria came over and looked at Annika. She patted Annika on the back. "Poor An'ka," she said.
"Look Annika," Raye whispered. "Here's Gloria. She wants you to feel better."
"Glory," Annika reached for Gloria's hand. Together the two little girls went off to play.
"Friendships form earlier don't they," asked Lita in an amused voice.
"They do," Mina sighed. "At least Annika brings out my little terror's soft side." Everyone chuckled at that.

******


A few days later Palla and Ves were getting the children down for their nap. Madelyn was settled into her crib and was already asleep. Daisy and Maggie were both awake but quiet. Hope was already sleeping with Faith lying awake beside her. Annika was holding her stuffed dog, Snuggles and trying to sleep. Gloria was still wondering around.
"Come on Gloria you need to lie down now," Palla gently told the child.
"No," Gloria pouted.
"Yes it's naptime," Palla stated in a firmer voice.
"No nap," Gloria whined. "Hate naps!"
"You are going to take a nap," Palla picked the child up and put her on her mat. Gloria kicked and screamed. "Do we need to get Mommy," Palla asked.
"No nap," Gloria screamed and continued her tantrum. Ves reached for the phone to call Venus.
A few minutes later Venus arrived looking annoyed. She saw her daughter throwing the tantrum and giving Palla a hard time. She went right over to Gloria and swatted her backside. "Enough young lady," she commanded. "It is naptime and your friends are trying to sleep."
"No nap," Gloria howled but Venus swatted her again and Gloria began to cry harder.
"Now you lie down and go to sleep," Venus ordered. Gloria lay down sniffling. Venus began rubbing Gloria's back trying to calm her down. She sensed a movement next to her. She looked up and saw Annika standing by her. Venus smiled at her. "Would you like me to rub your back too?"
"No," Annika replied. She placed Snuggles in Gloria's arms and walked back to her mat.
"What a sweet child," Venus mused. Gloria fell asleep.
Annika was unable to sleep without Snuggles so Raye had to put her tired, cranky child to bed early that night.

******


About a year later...
Raye gazed at Annika who was sitting at the breakfast table. She had her thumb in her mouth, which was a definite sign that she was scared. Raye knew why. Today she and Chad were leaving for a week to go to the United States. It would be the first time since Annika was born that they would be apart. Raye hated to leave her baby for a week but Annika was going to be in good hands. Amy had agreed to keep her. Raye had debated between Mina and Amy. She at first thought that since Gloria and Annika were close friends she would be okay with Mina. But then Raye noticed that Annika and Amy had a strong rapport between them. That helped Raye make her decision. Since Annika was so shy Raye wanted her to feel as secure as possible. Chad was right now taking Annika's car seat over to Amy's quarters.
"Are you finished eating Sweetheart," Raye asked. Annika nodded her head. "Then go and find something to wear today." The three-year-old slid off her chair and walked slowly to her room. Raye noticed that Annika did not have her usual energy that morning. "I wish I could take you with us baby," Raye said to herself. However, since Raye and Chad were going on business a three-year-old would just get in the way.
Annika came back with a cotton dress. Raye smiled. Annika looked so cute in that dress. It was white with purple and pink flowers all over it. Raye helped her put it on and then scooped up the little girl. "Let's finish getting you ready," she whispered. Annika just nodded and rested her head on her mother's shoulder, thumb still in her mouth. Raye carried Annika into her room. She pulled a pair of pink socks out the drawer and got them on Annika's feet along with her white sneakers. "Will you let Mama put a bow in your hair today," Raye asked. Annika nodded her head. Usually she liked wearing her hair loose like Raye's but occasionally she would allow a bow to be put in her hair. Raye selected a pink hair bow and fixed Annika's hair.
"Why can't I come," Annika asked sadly. Raye felt her heart break.
"I already told you Sweetie," Raye replied. "Daddy and I have to talk to some important people. You have to stay here."
"I don't want you to go," Annika choked as a tear rolled down her face. Raye pulled Annika onto her lap and held her close. She gently pulled Annika's thumb out of her mouth and reached for her favorite stuffed dog, Snuggles. "Here," she whispered. Annika took it and held it close. Raye worked on consoling her daughter.

It wasn't even eight yet and already Mina was exhausted. Gloria woke up full of energy as usual. There had been the usual battle over what to wear. They finally agreed on a pair of red shorts and a red and yellow striped T-shirt. Now the child was eating her cereal and making a mess. Mina sighed. She had to oversee a Scout practice this morning and then meet with the king and queen to discuss Chibi Moon's training. Before she did that Gloria still had to be taken to the palace nursery.
"Finished Mommy," Gloria cried.
"Finally," muttered Mina. She cleared the dishes away and placed them in the sink. She wiped up the mess quickly. Gloria started chasing Artemis around the room.
"I swear Mina if you don't do something about that kid of yours I'm moving in with the King and Queen," Artemis declared.
Mina sighed and grabbed Gloria. "Sit with me for a minute I need to talk to you," she told her daughter.
"I be good in nursery today," Gloria quickly said.
"Glad to hear it but that's not what I want to talk to you about," Mina sat down with Gloria on her lap. She turned Gloria's face toward her so that they were making eye contact. "You know Annika's mommy and daddy are going away today right?"
"Yes," Gloria chirped.
"You know Annika is going to be very sad," Mina continued. "She won't see her mommy and daddy for a week."
"How long that Mommy," asked Gloria.
"Seven days," Mina replied.
"Long time," Gloria gasped. Mina smiled. A week was not that long but in the eyes of pre-schoolers it was an eternity.
"I want you to help Annika feel happy," Mina instructed. "Can you do that?"
"Okay Mommy," Gloria promised. "I'll make Annika happy."
"Good girl," Mina hugged her daughter. Maybe that will help Gloria stay out of trouble today.

Mercury carried the sobbing Annika toward the nursery. As predicted Annika had thrown a huge fit when her parents left. Jupiter had to pry Annika loose from Raye and then hold her until she stopped struggling. Once the struggling stopped Mercury took over. Now Annika was a little calmer and Mercury realized she had to get her to the nursery. She still had a Scout practice to go to and then she had a schedule full of appointments today. A couple of the maids needed physicals and the little boy of another servant had the flu. Mercury could tell it was going to be a busy day. Not only that but she now had two children to feed and get ready for bed tonight.
She got to the nursery and then realized that going in would not be a good idea. Ariel was only one and would have a fit if Mercury came in and then left without taking her.
Mercury peeked in the window. Thankfully Ariel had her back turned to it. She got Palla's attention and motioned her to come out.
"I see we had a difficult time when mama and daddy left," Palla commented.
"I'm afraid so," Mercury sighed. Annika tightened her grip around Mercury's neck. "Annika dear I have to go now. I'll be back for you and Ariel later."
"I want Mama," Annika sobbed.
"I know you do but she had a go on a trip," Mercury explained gently. "Be a good girl and go with Palla. I'll be by later."
"No," Annika wailed as she clutched Mercury. Mercury realized the only way to get Annika to let go was just have Palla take her. She motioned to Palla who nodded her head and took Annika from her. Annika began screaming again.
"I'll see you later," Mercury promised. She kissed Annika on the cheek and left full of worry.

Palla carried Annika into the nursery. Annika was beside herself. "Oh dear," Ves commented. "A little unhappy this morning aren't we?"
"Just a little," Palla replied as she sat down with Annika in her lap.
"Annika sad," Gloria came over.
"Yes Gloria, Annika is very sad right now," Palla told the little girl.
"Don't cry Annika," Gloria patted Annika on the back.
"Mama go way," Annika sobbed.
"She'll be back," Gloria firmly told her. She took Annika's hand. "Come play." Annika hesitated for a moment and then climbed down. The two little girls went off to play.

Amy headed toward the nursery. Since it was during naptime and she knew Ariel would be asleep Amy felt this would be a good time to check on Annika. She arrived at the nursery and peeked in the window. Ariel was asleep in the crib. Amy went in. "How's Annika," she whispered.
"She calmed down," Palla replied. She pointed to Annika. "Take a look."
Amy smiled at what she saw. Annika was asleep on her mat. Gloria was asleep next to her with an arm around her. "How cute," Amy whispered.
"Isn't it," Ves agreed. "Gloria is normally such a terror but she has been so sweet with Annika today."
"Maybe that's what kept Annika from crying," Amy observed.
"She did," Palla replied. "Gloria may be a pain but she loves Annika."
Amy was glad. She went over to Ariel's crib, gave her a kiss and then left the nursery.

******

"No, no, no," Gloria was shouting angrily. "Don't wanna wear jacket."
"You have to," Mina wearily explained. "It is too chilly out to go without one."
"No jacket," Gloria screamed. Mina decided the only thing to do was to just grab Gloria and put the jacket on her. She reached for the little girl but Gloria ducked and ran.
"Come back here young lady," Mina shouted losing her patience.
"No," Gloria screamed again and continued to run away from her mother.
A knock at the door diverted Mina from the chase. It was Raye, Annika, Serenity and Rini. "We're ready," Raye called.
"We're not," Mina grumbled. "My child refuses to put her jacket on."
"No jacket," Gloria screamed.
"We already had a battle about what to wear today. She wanted to wear shorts but I forced her into overalls."
"I'm glad mine is not like that," Raye mused. Annika was wearing her jacket and hat.
"Allow me," Serenity offered. She walked over to her goddaughter. "Gloria you really should put on your jacket. You don't want to catch a cold."
"I hate jackets," Gloria shrieked. The stubborn four-year-old darted away from Serenity.
"Well Annika I guess Gloria won't be playing," Raye informed her daughter. "You'll just have to play with Rini."
Annika pouted. She went over to Gloria. "Play with me Gloria," she pleaded. "I wear my jacket."
"Why," Gloria snapped.
"I want to play with you," Annika replied.
Gloria thought for a moment and then walked over to her mother. "Sorry Mommy," she chirped. "I put my jacket on."
"Can I keep your kid Raye," Mina asked as she helped Gloria with her jacket.
"Absolutely not," Raye replied as she scooped up her tiny daughter. Annika could always convince Gloria to put on her jacket.

******

Gloria was on a roll in the nursery one day. Palla and Ves were both thankful that Daisy and Maggie were now in school. That was two less to deal with. So far Gloria had pushed little Ariel down, bit Madelyn and got into a fight with Faith. She was now sitting in time-out with a glare on her face.
"Maybe we should just keep her there until the Scouts get off," Ves muttered.
"Don't tempt me," Palla growled.
"Thank goodness she goes off to school this next year," Ves sighed.
"So do Annika and the twins," Palla pointed out. She glared at Gloria. "You may get out now."
Gloria got up and wandered over to Annika and Hope. The two little girls were painting.
"You gonna paint Gloria," asked Annika.
"I hate painting," Gloria grumbled. "Come play with me Annika."
"I wanna paint," Annika replied.
"Me too," Hope added.
Gloria was angry at being rejected like this. She looked at Annika's picture. "What is that," she asked.
"A rainbow with me and Mama," Annika told her. "Mama will hang it up."
"It's ugly," Gloria growled who was in a very fowl mood that day.
"It's not ugly it's pretty," Annika moaned as tears fell down her face.
"No it's ugly," Gloria shouted and she grabbed the painting and tore it up. Annika began to howl. She reached over and hit Gloria. Gloria in turn grabbed a paint can and smashed it on Annika's head. Annika screamed louder as blue paint got in her hair.
"What is going on," Ves demanded as she came running over. Palla was in the middle of changing Ariel's diaper and could not help.
"Gloria tore up Annika's picture so Annika hit Gloria and Gloria hit Annika with the paint," Hope cried in a rush. "Gloria was being mean."
"That's it young lady," Ves growled. She grabbed Gloria and put her back in the corner. "You can sit here until your mother comes."

Gloria burst into tears as her mother's hand made contact with her backside. "I can't believe your behavior today," Mina was shouting. "Why can't you go through one day without causing trouble?"
"I hate nursery," Gloria replied.
"I had better get a good report from you tomorrow," Mina commanded. "What you did to Annika was mean. She's your friend. Why did you tear up her painting like that?"
"She wouldn't play with me," Gloria muttered as she wiped her eyes with her fist.
"Well tomorrow you are going to tell her you are sorry," Mina ordered. "Right now you are going to bed."
"Too early," Gloria shouted.
"Too bad," Mina grumbled as she picked up her daughter and carried her to her room.

Once Mina got Gloria into bed she left Asai in charge and went off to Raye's quarters. Chad answered the door.
"I came to see Raye," Mina told him. She heard wailing in the background.
"She is giving Annika a bath right now but you can go back," Chad replied. Mina went back to the bathroom and went in. Raye was washing Annika's hair, trying to get the blue paint out. Annika was crying pitifully.
"We did this last night," Annika was sobbing.
"I know Sweetheart but we have to get the paint out," Raye told her daughter. "Hold still we are almost done."
"Hi Raye," Mina came in.
"Mina," Raye looked up in surprise. "I wasn't expecting to see you." She carefully began to rinse Annika's hair. Annika still continued to cry.
"I just needed to apologize for Gloria's actions today," Mina pointed out. "I know she caused a lot of inconvenience for you."
"That she did," muttered Raye. She smiled at Annika. "We're all done now. That wasn't so bad was it?" Annika just sniffled as Raye lifted her out of the tub and began to towel her off.
"Well she got a spanking and an early bedtime," Mina informed her. "She is going to tell Annika she is sorry tomorrow."
"Annika will probably have forgotten it by then," Raye replied as she wrapped the towel around Annika. She stood up with Annika in her arms. The little girl rested her head on her mother's shoulder. Raye smiled and kissed her.
"How did you end up with such a sweetie," Mina asked enviously. "I wish my child was more like yours sometimes."
"Your child is certainly something else," Raye muttered. She walked into Annika's bedroom with Mina following.
"Gloria mean," Annika piped up as Raye handed her a pair of pajamas.
"Hush Annika," Raye ordered. "Get your pajamas on." Annika began to awkwardly put them on. Since she was now four Raye was trying to teach her to dress herself. If there were no buttons or zippers Annika could manage.
"Done," Annika proclaimed proudly.
"And it's not on backwards this time," Raye smiled at her child. She held out her arms and Annika jumped into them.
"May I," asked Mina holding her arms out. Annika hesitated for a moment and then reached out for Mina. Mina sat down on the bed and settled Annika into her lap. "I just wanted to talk to you about Gloria."
"Gloria was mean today," Annika drew her little mouth into a pout.
"I know she hurt your feelings when she ruined your picture," Mina told the child. "But she is very sorry for what she did."
"She is," Annika asked.
"Of course," Mina replied. "She'll tell you tomorrow."
"Okay," Annika shrugged her shoulders. She hopped down off of Mina's lap and went over to Raye. "Snuggle time."
"You're right it is," Raye agreed. She picked up Annika and the little girl snuggled into her arms. "I'm sorry Mina but I must really finish getting her ready for bed."
"I understand," Mina kissed Annika on the head. "Goodnight. I'll see you in the morning." She left wondering how two little girls who were so opposite could be good friends.

******

"But we aren't allowed in there," Annika protested. She and Gloria were out in the palace yard. It was a very hot day and the sun was beating down on them. Both girls had their hair up in ponytails and had dumped their shoes on the ground. Gloria wanted to go into a shaded area that was off limits to the children. It was full of brambles and sticks.
"Whose gonna know," Gloria asked. "I want to know why we can't go in there."
"Look at all the sharp things," Annika pointed out looking at some thorns. "It'll tear our clothes."
"Then I'll just take them off," Gloria declared. She pulled off her shorts and T-shirt. Wearing only her underwear she began to walk into the shaded area. Annika hesitated for a moment and then peeled off her sundress. She followed Gloria.

"Maggie, Daisy, have you seen Annika or Gloria," Raye asked the two six-year-olds playing on the swings.
"They went that way," Maggie replied pointing.
"Thank you," Mina sighed.
"Careful you two you don't want to get overheated," Lita cautioned as she came out with some water for them.
Mina and Raye continued their search for their daughters. Usually when those two were nowhere to be found it meant they were up to something. "Well here are their shoes," Raye commented as she picked up a pair of white sandals that belonged to Annika. Mina picked up a pair of canvas boat shoes.
"Gloria," Mina called. "Where are you?" There was no reply. "I hope they aren't hurt."
"I'm not sensing anything," Raye replied. Something else caught her eye. She went over to a pile of clothes on the ground. She immediately recognized them as Annika and Gloria's. "What in the world?"
Mina looked over into the shaded area. "You don't suppose..."
"They wouldn't dare," Raye immediately went into the area with Mina at her heels. They walked a few feet and found two little girls clad only in their underwear sitting on the ground. They were covered with scratches.
"Gloria," Mina shouted coming up on them.
"Annika," Raye sternly stated.
"Mommy," Gloria cried in alarm. Annika just took one look at her mother and started crying, knowing she was in trouble.
"What are you two doing here," Mina demanded. "You two know you aren't allowed in this area."
"And why aren't you wearing any clothes," Raye asked as she picked Annika up.
"We didn't want to tear them," Gloria grumbled as Mina scooped her up.
"Look at you both all cover with scratches," Mina stated. "You know you are not allowed in this area."
"You never told us why," Gloria replied in a rude voice. Mina spanked her.
"Now you know why," Raye pointed out. "All of those thorns and brambles could tear you to shreds." She looked sternly at Annika. "You know you aren't allowed in there. Why did you go?"
"Gloria told me too," Annika wailed.
"That is not an excuse," Raye stated sternly. "After Aunt Amy looks at these scratches you can have a long time out to do some thinking. I have told you many times if you know something is wrong then don't do it."

Amy stared in amusement as Mina and Raye came in carrying their two little girls who were clad only in their underwear. "What is this," she asked as she took Annika from Raye. Hotaru reached for Gloria.
"They decided to go into the overgrown area with all the thorns and brambles," Raye grimly replied.
"But why no clothes," Hotaru asked as she began cleaning off Gloria's scratches.
"They didn't want to rip their clothes so they took them off," Mina sighed.
Amy couldn't help it. She burst out laughing. Hotaru followed suit. Raye and Mina glared at the two women. "I am glad you find this amusing," Raye growled. Annika sensing her mother's temper wrapped her arms tightly around Amy's neck. Gloria only pouted as her scratches got cleaned off.
"Sorry," laughed Amy as she set Annika down on the table. "This is not something you hear everyday."
"Well they are both in big trouble," Mina pointed out. "They disobeyed a rule so now they will have to suffer the consequences."
"Please go slow Aunt Amy," Annika timidly whispered.

Annika sat in the corner sniffling. As soon as they had gotten back from Amy's office Raye stuck her in a chair in the corner. Annika played with the ribbon on her sundress and sobbed. She hated it when her mother was angry with her.
Raye came over and knelt down in front of her. "Do you know why I put you in the corner," she asked.
"Because I was bad," Annika replied.
"You disobeyed me and went somewhere you know you weren't suppose to go," Raye explained. "I do not make these rules to be mean. I make these rules because I want you to be safe."
"But Gloria told me to," Annika protested.
Raye shook her head. "Gloria cannot make you do anything," she pointed out. "Annika is responsible for Annika. When you know something is wrong you do not do it. Even if someone tells you to do it you don't because you are the one who will be punished. Do you understand?"
"Yes Mama," Annika choked as she wiped her eyes with her fist. Raye pulled the child into her arms.
"I love you," she said. "Even when you do something wrong I always love you."
"I love you too Mama," Annika sobbed as she snuggled down into her mother's arms. Raye picked her little girl up and carried her over to the couch. Would the child ever learn to think for herself?

******

Time passed and Annika and Gloria started kindergarten along with Hope and Faith. The four little girls were put into one class together at the request of the parents. Palla and Ves now only had Madelyn and Ariel to look after. Palla took charge of Ariel and Ves took charge of Madelyn.
Now that they had started school Annika and Gloria had more run of the palace. There were still areas where they weren't allowed and they had strict orders to stay out of the way of certain staff members.
Kindergarten was a big adjustment for the four girls, particularly Annika whose shyness was always an issue. Raye had wanted to keep her home and home school but Amy had shot down the idea down saying Annika would never come out of her shell if she did not interact with other children. Fortunately Gloria was there to help Annika out on her first day. Annika loved school. So did Gloria even though she could not stay out of trouble. Ms. James was an excellent teacher and had a lot of patience with Gloria's feisty behavior. She tried to encourage Annika to make other friends because the only time Annika got into trouble was when she followed Gloria's lead.
One day in school Gloria was bored. The children were practicing their writing. Annika and Hope being perfectionists were taking their time. Gloria had rushed through hers and now wanted something to do. Faith was done but she was playing with a couple of the boys in the class. Gloria saw a couple of crayons and went over to them. She began drawing on the back of a chair. Annika finished her work and came over to Gloria. "What are you doing," she asked in surprise.
"Drawing," Gloria replied.
"On the back of the chair," Annika asked incredulously. She looked closely and asked, "What are you drawing?"
"Artemis," Gloria muttered. She was not very good at drawing.
Annika took the crayon from her. "Here I'll fix this." She added some eyes and the crescent moon to the forehead. "There," she proclaimed proudly.
"Annika and Gloria what do you two think you are doing," a sharp voice from behind them said. The girls turned and saw Ms. James standing over them. Neither girl could answer. "Well?"
"None of your business," Gloria snapped and she poked her tongue out at the teacher.
"Too the corner young lady," Ms. James took Gloria's arm and led her to the time out chair. She went back to Annika. "Did you help her with this?" Annika nodded her head, her eyes brimming with tears. "Then you may go and have a time out too. I will be writing a note to your mothers."

"I am glad you and Gloria are good friends," Raye told her daughter after school that day. "But I don't want you getting into trouble by doing the things she does."
"Yes Mama," Annika mumbled wiping a tear out of her eye.
"Now you may go to your room and stay there until dinner. You will also be going to bed right after dinner for a whole week. Have I made myself clear," Raye asked.
Annika nodded her head. She went to her room sobbing her little heart out. Raye watched her go. "Please start thinking for yourself baby."

In Venus's quarters Gloria was going through her own punishment. She was standing in the corner waiting for Mina to decide on a punishment. Mina had hit the roof when she read the note from Ms. James. She dragged Gloria back to their quarters and stood her in the corner so she could think about what to do. Gloria put on a defiant look but inside she was scared. She also felt bad that Annika had gotten into trouble too.
"Gloria Kathryn Aino come here right now," Mina ordered. Gloria walked over and stood in front of Mina. "Coloring on the back of the chair was wrong but I am more upset that you talked back to your teacher and stuck your tongue out at her. That was rude and disrespectful."
"But Mommy," Gloria began but Mina put a hand over her mouth. "You also dragged Annika into it. You know she does whatever you do. Do you want her to get into trouble too?"
"No Mommy," Gloria mumbled.
Mina lifted Gloria onto her knee and swatted her backside a few times. Gloria felt her eyes fill with tears. She hated being spanked. Mina set her back down again. "You will apologize to Ms. James tomorrow. You are also not allowed to play video games for a week. Do you understand?" Gloria nodded her head. "Now go to your room." Gloria walked to her room. Mina sat down and wondered what the future had in store for her.

******

A couple of months had passed and eventually the PR manager retired. That meant a new one had to be hired. Endymion and Serenity hired a Ms. Ito who had been in Public Relations for a large number of years. She fit all of the qualifications. The king and queen were sure she would do an excellent job. However Raye and Michiru both had their doubts about her.
"I can't place my finger on it," Raye mumbled "But she seems so cold somehow."
"I agree," Michiru added. "I don't think she likes children very much."
"Well she will have to learn to live with them," Raye pointed out. "Not only to we have the princess and the children of the Scouts but we also have the children of other staff members living here. She is just going to have to get used to it."
"I wish I could tell you about her," Sailor Pluto suddenly appeared.
"Setsuna," gasped Michiru "What are you doing here?"
"Ms. Ito does not like children," Pluto informed them. "Just remember that."
"Do we need to be concerned," asked Raye.
"Mommy," Maggie came running into the room. She flew into Pluto's arms. Pluto smiled and picked her little girl up.
"Setsuna do we need to be concerned," Raye repeated.
"Just remember that Ms. Ito does not like children," Pluto repeated and then carrying Maggie in her arms walked away.

"Here are the papers you were looking for Ms. Ito," eleven year old Rini told the woman.
"Thank you your Highness," Ms. Ito replied. "Now please get out of my hair. And take that child with you. She is nothing but a pest and a torment."
"Bitch," Rini thought to herself as she walked away.
"I'm not a pest am I Rini," Annika asked slipping her small hand into Rini's.
"Of course not," Rini assured the little girl. "She's just a mean stupid bitch who does not know how to be nice." Annika's eyes opened wide at Rini's choice of words.
"Rini," a quiet voice from behind them said. Rini turned and saw it was Amy. "I know you are the princess but I don't think you should be using that type of language around the children."
"Sorry Aunt Amy," Rini flushed. "Ms. Ito upset Annika and I was mad."
"I understand," Amy replied as she scooped Annika up. "But I know Raye would not want you using that language around Annika and I don't want to hear it around Ariel either." Amy quickly thought, "God help me if Ariel heard that. She is only three but has a phenomenal vocabulary. The last thing I want is her adding profanity to it."
"I'm sorry," Rini muttered flushing a bright pink matching her pigtails.
"You have a Scout training to go to now," Amy informed her. She looked at Annika in her arms. "Why don't I take you to Mama?" Annika nodded her head. Amy left with Annika in her arms and Rini headed to practice.

A few days later Annika was looking for Gloria. The girls had just gotten home from school about half an hour ago. Gloria had said something about wanting to take care of a mean lady. Annika's curiosity had gotten the better of her so she went to investigate. One nice thing about kindergarten was that there was no homework yet. She finally found Gloria coming back from outside carrying a box in her hand.
"What are you doing," asked Annika.
"I have two frogs in this box," Gloria replied.
"Yuck," Annika shuddered. "What are you going to do with them?
"I am going to give them to Ms. Ito," Gloria informed her.
"No Gloria you know how mean she is," Annika cried.
"That is why I am doing this," Gloria tersely replied. "You know what she did to Hope." Annika nodded her head. Three days ago when the children had gotten home Hope had an armload of paintings she had done. She had dropped some of them on her way up to her quarters. Once she and Faith got there she realized she was missing some. Hope and Faith went back to look for them. They found Ms. Ito with them. Hope had asked for them back but Ms. Ito took it upon herself to teach Hope a lesson in carelessness and ripped up the paintings right in front of her. Hope had been devastated and cried hysterically. Haruka had been furious and raised a huge fuss at Ms. Ito.
"Hope was really sad," Annika recalled her friend's tear-stained face at dinner that night.
"And did you hear what she did to Daisy yesterday," Gloria added. Annika recalled that incident too. Daisy had been running in through palace when she crashed into Ms. Ito. The woman had been furious and grabbed Daisy's ponytail. Daisy had howled in pain but Ms. Ito had not let go until the child promised she would be careful. Lita had hit the roof and threatened to use her Oak Evolution attack on Ms. Ito is she ever laid another hand on Daisy.
"I just hope you don't get into trouble," Annika shook her head.
"I won't," Gloria giggled. She went to Ms. Ito's office. The woman was sitting at her desk. She looked up and glared at Gloria.
"What do you two want," she snapped.
"Nothing," Gloria replied. She opened up the box and the two frogs hopped out. Ms. Ito screamed in fright. Gloria doubled over with laughter.
"You little brat," Ms. Ito raged. "What do you think you are doing?"
"Playing a trick," Gloria replied sticking her tongue out.
"I swear children should be outlawed," Ms. Ito grabbed Gloria by the nape of her neck.
"Let me go you old cow," Gloria shrieked. Annika came running in.
"Please let her go," Annika pleaded.
"Not until I teach this rude child a lesson," snapped Ms. Ito. She grabbed a whip from the corner. Annika watched in horror as Ms. Ito applied the whip to Gloria's backside. Gloria began to scream in pain as the whip lashed her. With each lash Annika winced, tears falling down her face. She was so scared.
"Now get out," Ms. Ito ordered the two girls when she finished. Annika and Gloria took off like a shot.
"It hurts," Gloria whimpered as she rubbed her backside.
"We have to tell your mama," Annika choked.
"No," Gloria shook her head. "If Mommy found out I played a trick I might get another spanking."
"But Gloria," Annika protested but Gloria grabbed her hand.
"Please Annika," she begged. "Don't tell anyone." Annika reluctantly nodded her head.

Mina could sense there was something wrong with her daughter that evening. Tonight everyone had dinner in their private quarters so Asai had cooked a meal for them. Mina noticed that Gloria was moving very gingerly. At the table she noticed that Gloria sat on her knees. Since they were in their own quarters and not in the palace-dining hall Mina decided not to make a big issue out of it.
It was when Mina was getting Gloria ready to take a bath she decided to find out. "What is going on Darling," Mina asked.
"Nothing Mommy," Gloria got undressed and backed into the tub. She sat down on her knees.
"Gloria you need to sit," Mina took hold of the child and sat her down properly. Gloria gave a howl of pain. "What is wrong," Mina asked in alarm. She pulled Gloria back up and stared in horror at the child's backside, which was covered with welts. "How did this happen?"
Gloria did not answer. She just continued to howl. Mina pulled Gloria out of the tub and held her.
"Come on tell Mommy what happened," Mina coaxed.
"No you'll be mad at me," sobbed Gloria.
"I'm mad at whoever did this to you," Mina stated. "This is wrong. Now tell me who did this to you."
Gloria gulped and quietly told Mina what had happened. Mina turned white with rage. How dare someone lash at her child like this? So what Gloria did was wrong but still no one had a right to do this. "Asai get in here," she yelled.
"What's wrong," asked Asai as he came running in. Mina explained what happened. When he saw the lashes on Gloria's backside he gritted his teeth in anger. "Wait until I get a hold of her," he declared.
"Let's get Amy to take a look at this first," Mina commanded. "Then we'll deal with Ms. Ito."

An hour later Gloria had calmed down and gone to bed. Amy had come over and applied medicine to the welts. Once Gloria was asleep, Mina asked Amy to stay with her so she and Asai could go talk to Ms. Ito. Mina was seething with rage.
They got to Ms. Ito's quarters and pounded on her door. She answered. "What can I do for you Lady Venus," she asked.
"How dare you whip my child like that," Mina snarled in rage. "You leave the discipline to me and my husband."
Ms. Ito held her ground. "Your child was very rude and played an unnecessary trick," she stated stiffly. "I had to punish her."
"Look here," Asai snapped placing a hand on Mina's shoulder to keep her from exploding. "If Gloria does something wrong you take it up with one of us. You do not hit her."
"If you lay another hand on my child I promise you will be brought before the royal court," Mina declared. "Stay away from her."
"Very well Lady Venus and Venus Knight," Ms. Ito bowed. "But tell your child to stay away from me. I made it clear to their Majesties I did not want to deal with children."
"Well get use to them because there are plenty of them around," Mina snapped and with that she and Asai headed back to their quarters.

Annika could not sleep. She sat up in her bed clutching Snuggles to her chest. She could not tell time yet but she knew it was late because her mother was in bed. Her father was still up.
She could not stop thinking about what happened with Gloria that afternoon. It had scared her to watch her best friend being whipped like that. Annika had badly wanted to tell her parents what happened but she promised Gloria she wouldn't. Now she could not sleep. Annika gave a gusty sigh and got out of bed. Holding Snuggles she opened the door to her room. Chad was just walking by on his way to bed.
"What you doing up honey," he asked in surprise.
"I can't sleep," Annika mumbled. Chad picked her up and she rested her head against his shoulder.
"Did you have a bad dream," Chad asked in concern. Annika shook her head. "Do you want Mama?" Annika nodded. Chad carried her into the master bedroom. Raye was asleep in bed. Chad gently nudged her awake.
"Huh," Raye muttered as she opened her eyes. She sat up and saw Annika in Chad's arms.
"Look who I found still awake," Chad replied.
"What is it Sweetheart," asked Raye as Chad placed Annika in her arms.
"I can't sleep," Annika replied. She snuggled down in Raye's arms.
"Did you have a bad dream," Raye asked.
"No," Annika murmured.
"Have you slept at all," asked Raye. Annika shook her head. "Damn I knew I should have checked on her before I went to bed but I was so tired. Now she is going to be impossible to get up in the morning"
"So why can't you sleep Princess," Chad asked as he climbed in next to them.
"I was thinking," Annika replied.
"About what," asked Raye in astonishment. "My goodness she is only five and already her mind is keeping her awake. What is going to happen when she is thirteen?" Raye shook off the thought. The teen years were still a ways off.
"Can't say," Annika snuggled closer to Raye and was contented when her mother tightened her embrace around her. "Mama, Daddy can I ask you something?"
"Anything," Chad replied.
"Have you ever wanted to tell something but you can't because someone told you not to tell anybody," asked Annika.
"What," asked Chad confused.
"She means have you ever wanted to break a promise," Raye clarified for him. "Can tell who pulls the twenty-four seven around here."
"I see," Chad nodded his head.
"Well," asked Annika annoyed that her parents were straying from the topic.
"Sorry Darling," Raye smiled down at her daughter. "It depends on what the promise is. Have you promised not to say something?"
"Gloria," Annika replied.
"Do you think you should tell," asked Raye. Annika nodded her head. "Then go ahead."
"Ms. Ito whipped Gloria today," Annika whispered as a tear rolled down her face.
"You saw that," Raye gasped in astonishment.
"You mean you already know," Annika asked.
"Yes," Chad replied. "Aunt Mina saw the marks the whip left when she was giving Gloria her bath. The queen came by and told us."
"Ms. Ito is scary," choked Annika as a tear rolled down her face.
"It's okay Sweetheart," Raye hugged her daughter close to her. "Ms. Ito only has one more chance but if she does anything to my child I will use my Burning Mandala on her."
"Is Gloria okay," Annika asked.
"She's fine honey," Chad assured her.
"You can sleep here with us tonight," Raye lay down with Annika in her arms. Nestled safely between her parents Annika went to sleep.

A few days passed without incident. Gloria's welts healed and the children stayed away from Ms. Ito. However, the final straw was about to happen.
The children had gotten home from school. Rini, Daisy and Maggie were sent to do their homework while Annika, Gloria and the twins were sent to play. Since it was a nice day the four little girls decided to play out side. After about an hour it began to cloud up and thunder was heard. "We had better go in," Hope sighed.
"Let's go to the playroom," Faith suggested.
"Last one there is a rotten egg," called Gloria and the four girls took off running. They ran through the palace halls giggling. Annika laughed as she tried to get ahead of the others.
Then she crashed into a stand knocking it over. The small statue on it fell and crashed on the ground, shattering into a million pieces. "You clumsy little fool," Ms. Ito came up to them. The four children froze.
"It was an accident," Annika stuttered.
"You children have no respect for anything," snapped Ms. Ito as she grabbed Annika by the arm. She began shaking the child. "You kids are nothing but burdens here."
"Please let me go," sobbed Annika. "I'm really sorry."
"No you children need a lesson and I am going to set an example with you," snapped Ms. Ito. She began to drag Annika toward a door.
"Let her go," screamed Gloria unable to contain herself. Seeing her best friend terrorized was more then she could bear. She ran over and tried to pull at Ms. Ito's arm but she only got knocked away. The three little girls watched as Ms. Ito dragged Annika toward a small closet.
"I'll lock you in here for awhile then maybe you will learn some respect," she snapped.
"NO," Annika screamed in terror.
"She's afraid of the dark," Gloria pleaded. "Please don't lock her in there." Ms. Ito did not listen. She opened the closet and threw Annika in. She closed the door and locked it. Annika began screaming and banging on the door in fright.
"Let her out," Faith shouted in fury.
"What is going on," asked Rini coming up.
"Rini Ms. Ito just locked Annika in there," cried Hope.
"Please get her out," Gloria added.
"Let her out by order of the Princess," Rini demanded.
"Absolutely not your Highness," Ms. Ito replied. "You are not queen yet so I will not take orders from you."
"Then I will get someone who you will take orders from," Rini raged and she took off taking Gloria with her.

"Anything else to report," asked Serenity. She and the Scouts were having a meeting.
"Nothing else your Majesty," Venus replied. "Scout practices are going smoothly and Chibi Moon is becoming a fine soldier."
"Glad to hear it," Serenity sat back pleased. "Now onto to other matters."
Before anyone could go on the door burst open and Rini and Gloria came tumbling in. Rini was red with anger.
"Small Lady, Gloria, what is the meaning of this," asked Serenity in a stern voice.
"It's Annika," Gloria gasped.
"What about her," Mars asked in alarm as she stood up.
"She's locked her in," Rini added.
"Slow down girls," Mercury cautioned.
Ves came walking in with her young charge. Madelyn had tears in her eyes while Ves looked very angry. "Ms. Ito has locked Annika up in a small dark closet," she reported. "She won't give either myself or Palla the key. Please go do something Sailor Mars, your Majesty. The child will cry herself into a fit if this keeps up."
The room cleared out as everyone headed to where the commotion was.

They arrived to see Palla with Ariel, Hope and Faith standing outside the closet. Palla was trying to reassure Annika who was sobbing uncontrollably. She was obviously very hysterical right now. Ms. Ito was nowhere in sight.
"Where's Ms. Ito," asked Serenity.
"She left," Palla replied grimly.
"Annika baby Mama's here," Mars called through the door but Annika did not hear her.
"Neptune, Uranus and Jupiter go and find Ms. Ito," Serenity ordered. "Get extra guards if you need to but find Ms. Ito."
"Right," said Jupiter and she, Neptune and Uranus took off.
Mercury was holding Ariel and running a scan on the door. "We have to get her out of there soon," she reported. "Her hysteria level is very high and it could lead to hyperventilation."
"Then I'll break the door down," Mars got ready to do her Fire Soul.
"No," Serenity and Mercury cried together. "You'll hit Annika too."
Mars sighed as a feeling of helplessness washed over her. Serenity fiddled with Rini's hair and got a hairpin out. She handed it to Mercury who began picking at the lock. Just then Uranus and Neptune arrived with Ms. Ito.
"You," Mars started to lash at Ms. Ito but Venus held her back.
"The key Ms. Ito," Serenity demanded in a stern voice.
Ms. Ito held it down. "These children have been very reckless and need discipline," she stated. "I beg you to let me uphold my authority in this matter."
"The key," Serenity repeated in an icy voice. "And as for your authority you no longer have any."
The key was produced and Uranus and Neptune took Ms. Ito to the palace dungeon. Mars powered down knowing Annika would rather see her in civilian form right now. The door was unlocked and Annika flew into Raye's waiting arms completely beside herself. Raye carried Annika off to their quarters in attempt to console her.

While Serenity and Venus were trying to get the whole story from Rini, Gloria and the twins Raye was trying to calm Annika down. It took a while but after much tender loving care the sobs were finally hushed. Annika had always been a sensitive little girl and this experience completely upset her. Exhausted from her ordeal she fell asleep. Catches of breath showed Raye how violent the attack had been. Deep inside she was seething. Just wait until she had a moment to see Ms. Ito in the palace dungeon. She tucked Annika into her bed and then sat down on the couch trying to meditate in an attempt to relax.
After a while Amy arrived with little Ariel. "I just wanted to see how Annika was," she stated.
"She's sleeping now," Raye replied.
"Let me take a look at her," Amy walked into Annika's bedroom. She checked Annika's pulse and noted the catches of breath. "She is still very shook up. I prescribe a lot of love and patience which I know you will give her."
"Of course," Raye nodded her head.
"I also recommend that you do not talk about the incident unless she brings it up herself," Amy continued. "This experience has been very upsetting and she may not want to talk about it tonight. I will schedule some time to work with her on sorting through her feelings."
"Very well," Raye agreed.
"Mommy," Ariel piped up as she began dancing around. At three years old Ariel was recently out of diapers. Amy quickly ushered her toward the bathroom. At the same moment Chad came walking in with Venus and Gloria.
"I heard what happened," he cried. "How's Annika?"
"Sleeping right now," Raye replied.
"Ms. Ito has been fired and she will be tried in the Royal Court," Venus informed Raye. Anthony will be acting as judge and Asai will be representing the children."
"Chad I want us to go and have a word with her," Raye muttered. "I intend to tell her what I think of her. Amy would you mind staying here with Annika?"
"Of course not," Amy replied.
"I had better come with both of you," Venus quickly said. She looked around to tell Gloria to stay with Amy but couldn't find her. "Where's Gloria?" She went into Annika's room. "Raye take a look at this." Raye came and smiled. Gloria was lying on the bed with an arm around Annika trying to comfort her. What a cute sight it was.
"We'll be back shortly Amy," Raye called as they exited the quarters.

Gloria had been very distressed about what had happened to Annika. When Ms. Ito had locked Annika into the closet Gloria had badly wanted to beat up the woman. She had told her mother how bad she felt because she could not save Annika. Venus had told her just to make help make Annika happy now. When Gloria heard that Annika was sleeping she went right into her room. Annika was curled up in her bed clutching Snuggles. Gloria climbed up on the bed and lay down next to her. She slipped an arm around Annika's shoulders and just lay quietly. Gloria wanted to do what she could to help Annika feel better and she had watched Raye enough times to know what comforted Annika the best.
Since Gloria could not tell time yet she did not know how long she lay there but eventually Annika woke up. She saw Gloria and sat up rubbing her eyes. "Gloria," she mumbled as she gave an enormous yawn.
"Hi Annika," Gloria sat up next to her.
"What are you doing here," Annika asked.
"Trying to make you happy," Gloria replied. Gloria sat quietly for a moment and then whispered. "I'm sorry I couldn't help you."
"It's okay," Annika replied as she got out of bed. Annika padded over to the door and went through. Gloria followed her.
Amy was sitting on the couch watching Ariel play. "Mama," Annika called.
"She and Daddy had to take care of something Sweetie," Amy informed her. "How are you feeling?" Annika just shrugged her shoulders. She climbed up on Amy's lap and wrapped her arms around her neck. Amy held the little girl close to her. She noticed that the child was still catching her breath, which indicated she was still shook up. Amy glanced over at Gloria and saw a disturbed look in the little girl's eyes. Of course Ms. Ito had traumatized Gloria too. Amy was thankful that Ariel was still too young to have the run of the palace.
Raye, Chad and Mina got back. Raye still looked like she was seething but when she saw that Annika was up she quickly covered her emotion.
"Mama," Annika jumped down from Amy's lap and ran to Raye.
"Hi Sweetheart," Raye picked Annika and held her close. "Did you sleep okay?" Annika nodded her head.
"I hope you didn't lose your temper too much," Amy said as she picked Ariel up.
"Of course she did," Mina replied dryly as Gloria ran into her arms. "So did I."
"Mama is Ms. Ito going to lock me up again," Annika asked fearfully.
"No Darling she is in jail," Raye replied.
"But you will have to tell what happened in court," Chad added.
"You will too Gloria," Mina informed her child.
"I'll work with them on preparing for it," Amy promised. Raye, Chad and Mina nodded in agreement.

Very little was mentioned to the girls about the incident that night. Gloria wanting to protect Annika had begged to stay for a while. Raye and Chad invited the Venus family for dinner. Even after dinner Gloria still did not want to leave so Asai got her pajamas from their quarters while Mina and Raye bathed the girls. Mina decided to let Gloria go to sleep in Annika's room. When she and Asai decided it was time to go they went in to get their sleeping child.
"Take a look at this," Raye whispered. Mina smiled. Annika and Gloria were lying sided by side entwined in each other's arms.
"This is going to be interesting," Mina whispered back. She went over and gently pried Gloria loose from Annika. Gloria's arms immediately went around Mina's neck. Annika started to flail her arms around a little so Raye quickly placed Snuggles in them.
"Only in kindergarten and they already have such a strong friendship," Asai observed.
"I think it's wonderful," Chad added and everyone agreed.

******

After Ms. Ito's trial things began to return too normal. Cold and flu season started up again and all of the children got hit with it at least once. Gloria's throat was badly inflamed and Amy was concerned.
"I may have to remove her tonsils," Amy informed Mina. "I will be by tomorrow to look at them again tomorrow."
"Thank you Amy," Mina replied. She picked Gloria up and carried her back to their quarters.
"Mommy I don't want to have my tonsils out," Gloria muttered.
"I know you don't Darling but we may have no choice," Mina told her.
"Well I don't like it," Gloria snapped in an irritable voice. Mina silently counted to ten. Gloria had been much more trying the last couple of days because she was sick.
"Gloria a lot of us don't like certain things but we have to go through with them because they are necessary," Mina quietly explained as she opened the door to their quarters.
"Can Annika come see me," asked Gloria as Mina tucked her back into bed.
"No Darling Aunt Raye does not want Annika to get sick again," Mina replied. "Now how about I make you some soup?"
"Can't Daddy make me some soup," Gloria asked. Even in kindergarten Gloria knew what a disaster her mother was when it came to taking care of sick people.
"Daddy can't now," Mina replied. She went into the kitchen. Gloria heard crashing around and hid under her covers.

"Come on Gloria let me take a look," Amy commanded but Gloria kept her mouth sealed shut and shook her head. "I'm not leaving until I look in your throat."
"Then you will stay here forever," Gloria replied through clenched teeth. She knew Amy was here to determine if her tonsils needed to come out so she was not going to let her look.
"Gloria I am not playing games with you," Amy demanded impatiently. "If my child behaved like this she would have a sore behind now."
"Are we having problems," Mina asked coming into the bedroom.
"Yes we are," Amy replied grimly. "She refuses to open her mouth and let me take a look."
"Allow me," Mina pinched Gloria's nose. Gloria opened her mouth to protest. Amy gripped Gloria by the jaw and held it open. She managed to get a look.
"Not fair you tricked me," Gloria cried angrily.
"I'm afraid they have to come out," Amy reported ignoring Gloria's protests.
"When," Mina sighed as she placed a comforting hand on Gloria's shoulder.
"Bring her in tonight and I can take care of it tomorrow morning," Amy replied gathering up her things.
"Very well I'll pack some things for her and bring her over," Mina replied.
"I'm not going," Gloria shouted as she hid under her covers.

Raye smiled as Annika arrived home from school "Mama," Annika squealed as she jumped into Raye's open arms.
"Hi Sweetheart," Raye replied as she kissed her daughter. "How was school today?"
"Good," Annika chirped as Raye carried her toward their quarters. "Is Gloria better yet?"
"She's still sick Annika baby," Raye told her. She opened the door to their quarters and went in. "Would you like a snack?"
"No," Annika replied as she jumped down to the floor. "I want to see Gloria."
Raye sighed and sat down on the couch. "Come here Sweetie," she held out her arm and drew the little girl into her embrace. "Gloria is in the palace hospital."
"Why Mama," asked Annika as a look of fear came into her eyes.
"Gloria has to have her tonsils taken out," Raye explained. "So she is going to have them taken out tomorrow."
"Will she be all right," Annika asked as a tear rolled down her face.
"Of course," Raye assured her as she held Annika close to her. "People go through this all the time."
"Can I see her," Annika asked.
"I'm afraid not Sweetheart," Raye replied. "Aunt Amy is very strict about children visiting the hospital. She will only allow them if it's their parents they are visiting."
"Then can I make her a card," asked Annika.
"Of course," Raye exclaimed. "She'll like that." Annika slid off the couch and ran back toward her room. Raye smiled and sat back on the couch. It was nice to have a child who was so caring.

Gloria lay in the bed scowling. She did not want to have surgery. Right now Mina was signing all the papers so Gloria was alone in the hospital room.
Hotaru came walking in. "How are we doing," she asked.
"Rotten," snapped Gloria.
"Rude child," Hotaru thought to herself but she smiled gently at Gloria. "Well Aunt Amy will make you feel better tomorrow. Would you like to watch some television?" Gloria was silent for a minute but then nodded her head. Hotaru turned on the television. She took Gloria's temperature and checked her blood pressure. Once Hotaru finished she left the room. Gloria looked down and saw a vent on the wall. There was something not quite right. Gloria hopped down from the bed and went over to it. She saw that it was loose. Delighted Gloria pulled it free. "I can fit," she thought to herself. "I'm getting out of here." Gloria shimmied through the vent and disappeared.

The Scouts and Knights were gathered in the large conference room with the King and Queen. "I don't understand how she could have escaped," Serenity exclaimed.
"Don't underestimate my daughter," Venus muttered in a worried voice.
"We need to find her," Mercury pointed out. "I will stay in my office so that when she is found she can be brought to me."
"This is a huge palace and there are numerous places she can hide," Uranus pointed out.
"Then we just need to cover every inch of this place until we do find her," Endymion replied. "Let's go."
"Right," everyone took off in different directions.

Annika was wondering back from the playroom. She was not sure what was going on. She only knew that her parents and all the other scouts and knights were busy right now. Palla had told her that if they weren't back by bedtime all the children were going to gather in the playroom until the parents got back. Annika hoped her mother would be back by then. She had a hard time going to sleep in the playroom.
"Annika," she heard a voice whisper. Annika turned around and saw Gloria poking her head out of a closet. Annika ran over to her.
"What are you doing," she asked.
"Hiding," Gloria hissed. "I ran away from the hospital."
"No wonder everyone is busy right now," Annika exclaimed. "They are all looking for you."
"I'm hungry," Gloria whimpered. "Could you get me something to eat?"
"Okay," Annika nodded her head and ran toward her quarters.

Back in her quarters Annika went right into the kitchen. She pulled a loaf of bread off of the counter and then opened the pantry. She saw peanut butter and jelly but they were too high for her to reach. Annika grabbed a chair and climbed up on it. Once she had what she came for she headed back toward Gloria's hiding place. On the way she saw Luna and Artemis. She quickly hid the two jars and the loaf of bread under her shirt.
"Annika what are you up too," asked Luna suspiciously.
"Nothing," Annika replied in an innocent voice.
"Then what is under your shirt," Artemis demanded.
"Can you keep a secret," asked Annika. She leaned over and whispered, "I have a baby in my tummy."
"Oh come on Annika we know how that works," Luna stated with a snort.
"Look there's a mouse," Annika cried pointing and the two lunar cats took off. Annika quickly got away.
"We have been outsmarted by a five year old," Artemis grumbled.
"Let's report this," Luna demanded. "I have a feeling she is up to something. Raye can get a fix on Annika through her psychic abilities."

"You didn't bring a knife," Gloria complained when Annika brought the food.
"I'm not allowed to use knives yet," Annika replied.
"Then how am I suppose to make my sandwich," Gloria asked.
"Use your hands," Annika suggested. Gloria dug her hands into the jar and began spreading the peanut butter on the bread. Annika giggled. Gloria was making a huge mess. "So why did you run away?"
"I don't want my tonsils taken out," Gloria replied. "It's gonna hurt."
"Everyone is looking for you," Annika pointed out.
"They won't find me," Gloria muttered.
"Don't be too sure," a voice stated. The two little girls jumped. There stood Raye and Mina.

"But I don't want them taken out," sobbed Gloria.
"It won't be so bad," Mina assured her daughter as Amy got her back into bed.
"That's right," Amy added. "When it's over you get all of the ice cream you can eat."
"Ice cream," Gloria perked up.
"Yes," Amy replied. Gloria smiled. Maybe this wouldn't be so bad after all.

Annika sat in the corner bawling her eyes out. As soon as they had returned to their quarters Raye angrily placed her daughter in the corner. Annika hated it when her mother was angry with her.
Raye walked over and knelt down in front of Annika. She handed her some Kleenex. "Stop crying now," Raye ordered. "I want to talk with you." Annika sniffled and wiped her eyes. "I am very disappointed in you Annika Raye Hino," she stated. "You knew Gloria was suppose to be in the hospital but you did not tell us. Instead you helped her out."
"She's my best friend," cried Annika but Raye put a hand over her child's mouth.
"I know she's your best friend but that still doesn't excuse your behavior," Raye explained. "I am trying to raise you to make the right decisions. You are a smart girl and I know you can do that."
"I'm sorry Mama," Annika wailed. "Do you hate me?"
"Sweetheart I will never hate you," Raye assured Annika as she pulled her into her arms. "I love you very much but I do not like it when you misbehave."
"I'll be good Mama," Annika choked.
"I know Darling," Raye picked Annika up and hugged her fiercely. Annika snuggled down in Raye's arms glad that her mother still loved her.

******

Soon it was time for Annika, Gloria and the twins to attend their first palace party. Once the children entered kindergarten they were to start attending palace parties. Annika had mixed feelings about it. She was glad to be going with her parents instead of staying with Palla who would watch her along with Gloria and Ariel. Ves would watch the twins and Madelyn. On the other hand Rini, Daisy and Maggie already told them how boring they were. Annika knew better than to complain so she put on her lavender princess dress.
"There," Raye said with a smile as she finished fastening up the dress. "Now we need to do your hair." Annika followed Raye into the bathroom. She stood still while Raye put a bow in her hair. "Now don't you look pretty?"
"I'm not as pretty as you Mama," Annika replied. Raye was wearing a red evening gown. Annika wanted to be as pretty as her one day."
"You are my pretty little girl," Raye picked her daughter up and hugged her. "Let's talk about the rules."
"What rules," asked Annika.
"The rules at the party," Raye sat Annika in a chair and she sat across from her. "You are to be on your best behavior. When you see the King and Queen you are to curtsey. Also remember your manners."
"Yes Ma'am," Annika replied.
"That's my good girl," Raye picked up Annika and hugged her tightly.

Annika gave an enormous yawn. It was boring here. She sat and watched as her parents danced with each other.
"I told you these parties were boring," Rini stated as she came up.
"They are," Annika agreed.
"I know how we could have fun," Gloria piped up.
"How," asked Rini narrowing her eyes.
"I am going to put a plate of food in someone's chair," Gloria giggled. "When they sit down there will be a big mess."
"Gloria I always knew you were stupid," Daisy commented.
"Shut up," Gloria poked her tongue out at Daisy.
"You little brat," Daisy was about to take a swing but Maggie quickly grabbed her hand.
"Don't you'll only get into trouble," she advised.
"Come on Annika," Gloria grabbed Annika's hand and pulled her away. Annika watched as Gloria got a plate and filled it with food. She then walked over to a group of chairs.
"I don't think you should do this," Annika murmured softly.
"It'll be funny," Gloria saw that someone was about to sit down so she placed the food in the chair. The woman sat down in the plate of food.
"What's this," shrieked the woman angrily and Gloria burst into laughter.
"Gloria," Mina came over in fury. "I saw that. What did we talk about?"
"It was funny," laughed Gloria. Her laughter turned into tears as Mina swatted her backside.
"Annika," Raye's stern voice came from behind her. Annika turned around. "What did I say before the party?"
"I didn't do anything Mama," Annika protested.
"They were both standing there," the woman snapped.
"Really Mama," Annika pleaded as tears sprang to her eyes. "I didn't do it. I just watched Gloria."
Raye frowned. Annika was looking right into her eye, which usually indicated she was telling the truth. "Okay I believe you," Raye assured her. Annika looked relieved.
"How do you know she is telling the truth," asked the woman. "She was standing there with her little friend who did this."
"Annika looked at me right in the eye," Raye replied. "When she's lying she can't do that."
"Well I saw mine do the crime," Mina added. She looked down at Gloria. "You may go and sit in the corner for the rest of the party." Gloria stomped over to the corner with Mina at her heels.
"I'm glad you did not take part in this," Raye hugged Annika. "Go to the other children and be good." Annika nodded and walked over to the other children. She felt very lonely without Gloria. Maggie and Daisy had each other and Faith and Hope had each other. Madelyn and Ariel were too young to be here. She wanted to play with her best friend but of course she couldn't.
"You look like you are getting sleepy," Amy knelt down in front of her.
Annika nodded her head and gave an enormous yawn. "I wanted to play with Gloria."
"You know how proud you made your mama when you did not help with that trick," Amy asked as she picked Annika up. Annika nodded her head and snuggled into Amy's arms. She was aware of Amy sitting down in a chair with her. Annika closed her eyes and enjoyed the comfort she was feeling.

Raye realized it was getting late and decided she needed to get Annika to bed. She looked around and did not see her. She saw Haruka and Michiru, each with a sleeping twin in their arms leaving. "Have you seen Annika," she asked.
"Over there with Amy," Michiru replied nodding her head in the direction. Raye looked and smiled. Amy was sitting in a chair with Annika cradled in her arms. Annika was asleep. Raye walked over to them.
"She was feeling a little lonely without Gloria to play with so I thought I would spend some time with her," Amy explained.
"Thank you," Raye replied. "She loves you." Amy carefully handed Annika over to Raye. Annika stirred a little but did not wake up.
"The feeling is mutual," Amy murmured as she kissed Annika on the cheek.
Raye carried Annika back to her quarters. Annika did not stir as Raye carefully undressed her and tucked her into bed. She reached down and kissed the child on the head. "You and Gloria are such good friends my darling," she whispered. "Much like the queen and I."

To be continued...

Acknowledgements: Sailor Cosmic Star gave me the naptime idea where Annika gives her favorite stuffed animal to comfort Gloria.
The idea of Ms. Ito locking Annika in the closet came from English children's book from the "Chalet School" series. In that case it was the school matron who locked a seven-year-old girl in the closet. I cannot remember the author.