Hi Everyone. We are onto Part Three of this series. This part is on a relationship that has only been touched on, Michiru and Ariel. Most of this part takes place about two weeks after Ariel and Hope have returned from being lost in time. I took a poll and everyone wanted to see Michiru deal with Ariel's traumatized side instead of her mischievous side. I am sorry it took so long to get this part out but I started back to work and then just as I was getting back into routine the school system had to transfer me to another school. So I've had to adjust to a whole new group of kids and a whole new set of colleagues. I am still behind but hopefully after another week or two I'll be caught up.
Review please.
My site has moved to a new server. Come and visit it at http://www.craiger.dns2go.com/chibiscouts/index.html
E-mail me at AngelRaye2@aol.com
I have a note for all of the artists who have done work on my site. Please send me your e-mail address or website address if either has changed since you sent me your pictures. Since we have moved to a new server I would like everything to be updated. Thank you.
Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon. With the exception of Rini I own the Chibi Senshi.
Bonds
Part Three: Ariel and Michiru
By
Angel Raye
About a month after Ariel's birth...
Amy sat on the couch with Ariel in her arms. She had just finished feeding her and now was just enjoying the time they could spend together. Everyone rejoiced in the birth of Ariel because now all of the Chibi Senshi had arrived. Rini was the only one who was a Senshi now and it would be at least another six years before the others were awakened but Ariel's arrival had assured everyone that the clouded memories of young visitors in the twentieth century was not a dream.
There was a knock at the door and Amy called for whomever it was to come in. She was pleased to see that it was Michiru. She had something to discuss with her. "Come in Michiru," Amy greeted her. "I am so glad you stopped by."
"I know you wanted to talk with me," Michiru replied as she sat down on the couch. She smiled at little Ariel. "Kawaii."
"Would you like to hold her," Amy asked.
"I would," Michiru replied. Amy placed the infant in her arms. Michiru smiled down at the tiny bundle in her arms. "She looks just like you."
"I know," Amy laughed. "My baby pictures look just like her."
"Amy," Michiru began. "I know I am the only one left to mentor your child. I hope you are okay with this."
"Michiru I think if Ariel had been the first one born instead of the last one I still would have asked you," Amy replied. "At first when the mentors were being chosen I felt like it was unfair because my child was last and she would get who was left where Rini was first and Serenity got to choose from everyone. But as the Senshi got chosen I knew they were meant to be with the children they were chosen for. I feel that I was meant to be Annika's mentor. I know that you are left because you are meant to be with my Ariel. I can't think of anyone I would rather have to be her mentor."
"I am so glad to hear that," Michiru stated with a breath of relief. "And I promise I will always be there for her."
"And that makes me happy," Amy said. "Because I know that she will be in good hands."
Michiru smiled down at the baby in her arms. "I promise that you and I will be very close."
A few days later Amy was putting the little dress for the bonding ceremonies on Ariel. Everyone had a strong feeling of nostalgia because this would be the last time the dress would be worn for a long time. After today's ceremony the dress would be put away into storage until the next generation of Senshi came along.
"How are we doing," Greg asked as he came into the room.
"We're just about ready," Amy replied. She fastened the little button and then picked Ariel up. "There you go. Don't you look pretty?" Ariel gazed up at her mother with her dark blue eyes, exactly like Amy's.
"I must say I am a lucky man," Greg declared. "I have got the prettiest wife and a beautiful daughter."
"Oh you," Amy laughed as she blushed. She pecked a kiss on Greg's cheek. "Shall we go?"
"We shall," Greg stated as he escorted his wife to the door.
"Gloria watch out for that," Venus shrieked as her almost three year old bumped into a table. There were children all over the place. Madelyn had just recently learned to walk and was toddling around. Saturn was keeping a sharp eye on her. Annika was in her mother's arms with her thumb in her mouth.
"Is the guest of honor here," Serenity asked as she carefully placed the silver crystal casing down.
"Right here," Mercury replied as she brought Ariel forward. Neptune came over and took the infant from Mercury's arms. Ariel fussed a little bit at being moved to another set of arms but settled back down quickly.
"We are ready to begin," Serenity announced.
"Girls get over here," Jupiter commanded to Daisy and Maggie who playing a rowdy game of chase. The two dashed over and stood quietly by their parents.
"This is a very special bonding ceremony," Serenity announced to everyone. "Not only because it is a few days before Christmas but because it will be the last bonding ceremony for this generation of Senshi. Luna if you will please."
"Of course," Luna replied and she leapt into the air. A henshin pen with the Mercury symbol appeared. Serenity handed it to Neptune who gently placed it on Ariel's chest.
"Neptune do you have your henshin pen out," Serenity asked.
"Yes your Majesty," Neptune replied as she held hers up.
"Then do you promise to be there for Ariel, guide her in her training and be there when her parents aren't available," Serenity asked.
"I promise," Neptune replied. Serenity held up the silver crystal. It began to glow, as did the two-henshin pens. White, blue and aqua light enveloped Neptune and Ariel for a moment and then it was gone.
"The bonding is complete," Serenity announced as she handed the Mercury henshin pen to Luna to put away until it was time for Chibi Mercury to be awakened. "You are now the official mentor of our future Chibi Mercury."
"And I will be the best one I can be," Neptune promised as she handed the now squalling Ariel back to Sailor Mercury.
Everyone knew she would.
Six years later...
It was after dinner in the palace and everyone had gathered into the living room to visit before the children's bedtimes. All of the children were playing with the exception of one. Ariel sat on her mother's lap, with her thumb in her mouth and one hand clutching Amy's blouse. Her eyes were full of trauma. She and Hope had been back for two weeks now after being lost in time. While Hope, although shaken up, was able to get back to her normal routine Ariel was in very bad shape. It didn't take an expert to see that. She was being home schooled and going through round the clock therapy. Fortunately it was August and the children were out of school for the month. Amy hoped to have Ariel back in school in September so that she could finish the third grade with her friends. Even though the children were out for summer break Amy continued with Ariel's schooling because she had lost so much while she was held captive and lost in time. Since it was the break Amy knew she could keep Ariel's lessons light.
[Author's note: I've mentioned this before but I'll say it again. The school year in Japan begins in April and they get a month off in the summer.]
Michiru was gazing at Amy and Greg. Both of them looked exhausted, especially Amy. Being everyone's doctor, Annika's mentor, a Sailor Senshi and having a traumatized child to deal with was beginning to wear on her. She and Greg needed a break. Michiru walked over to them and sat down next to Amy. She smiled down at Ariel. "Hi there Ariel," she gently greeted the little girl. She held out her arms. "How about sitting with me for a while?"
"Would you like to sit with Aunt Michiru," Amy asked Ariel. The little girl hesitated for a moment and then reached her thin arms out toward Michiru. Michiru stood up with Ariel in her arms. Amy gave her a smile of thanks. Michiru sat down in a chair and got Ariel settled into her lap. She felt a small hand clutch her shirt. She wrapped her arms around the little girl hoping the feeling will give her some comfort. She felt Ariel snuggling down into her arms. Michiru held Ariel and noted the differences. Before her ordeal with Lady Gemmei Ariel would sit on her lap and talk enthusiastically with her. She would feel very relaxed. Now Ariel just sat there, her eyes, haunted by trauma staring ahead and clutching Michiru's shirt. Her thumb would stay in her mouth and she was extremely tense. Michiru was worried about her. She wanted to do everything she could to help the child get better.
Michiru smiled gently and tilted Ariel's face up towards her and looked into the dark blue eyes. She pecked a kiss on the kawaii little face. "You know there is going to be an exhibition at the aquarium for a couple of weeks," she told her. "How about if you and I go to it one day? I think you'll like it." Ariel only shrugged her shoulders. "You like water shows don't you?"
"Yes," a barely audible whisper came out. "But I don't know if I can have fun."
"Why do you say that," Michiru asked.
"I don't want to leave the palace," Ariel replied. "No one can get me here."
"Oh Sweetie," Michiru pulled the child into a hug. "Lady Gemmei is gone and the defective time key has been fixed. You'll be fine." Ariel didn't reply. She just snuggled down in Michiru's arms and continued to stare ahead. Michiru stroked the short blue hair and held her close. Ariel continued to clutch her. Michiru thought. Michiru continued to think of ways she could help Ariel. After a while Amy came over.
"Thank you for letting her sit with you for a while," she said. "But I have to get her ready for bed now."
"Is there anything I can do to help," Michiru asked as Ariel went back into Amy's arms.
"Just holding her on your lap for a while helped me out enough," Amy replied. "She adores you and you are the only other person she feels safe with right now. Occasionally she will let Lita hold her too."
Michiru grabbed Amy's wrist. "I know you have a lot right now with Ariel's condition," she told her. "But please take care of yourself too."
"I will," Amy promised. "Thank you." Michiru watched as Amy and Greg left with Ariel.
she thought to herself.
That night it was Haruka's turn to get the twins ready for bed. So Michiru got out one of her shells and listened to the sound of the ocean. That always helped relax her. She imagined she was on the ocean with the waves surrounding her. An image of Ariel appeared. Not the traumatized Ariel but the child she was before Lady Gemmei took her. She was laughing and running around. "Come on Aunt Michiru," she called. "Come swim with me."
"Don't get lost without me," a voice called to her. Michiru snapped back to reality and saw Haruka sitting by her. "Don't leave me behind."
"Sorry," Michiru said as she put her shell down.
"You seem preoccupied tonight," Haruka observed.
"I'm concerned about Amy," Michiru admitted. "Did you see how tired she looked this evening? Greg doesn't look much better. They're both working full time and taking care of a traumatized child. It isn't healthy for them. Those two need some time for just the two of them."
"It's going to be hard to convince them right now with the state Ariel is in," Haruka pointed out. "Amy is almost as protective as Raye is when it comes to her child and with Ariel being so traumatized she is even more protective."
"I agree," Michiru sighed. "But I have an idea."
The next day Amy was in her office. Since she was in between appointments she had Ariel in there with her. It was after lunch and Ariel was asleep on the small bed in the office. Amy had the bed put there a few years ago so that on nights when she suddenly had to go in and Greg wasn't around she could just bring Ariel. Usually Amy could call one of the other Senshi or nannies to come and stay with Ariel. Occasionally Amy would be called into the office really late or in the middle of the night and she would just bring Ariel with her rather then disturb someone.
Right now the bed was coming in useful because after lunch Ariel would be exhausted after a morning of therapy and schoolwork. Amy allotted a couple of hours for Ariel to rest or play after lunch. Usually Ariel went to sleep because she was so tired.
Amy got up and went over to the little bed. Ariel was sleeping with her thumb in her mouth and her arm wrapped around her favorite teddy bear. Amy drew the covers up to Ariel's chin and then kissed her on the cheek.
A movement at the door pulled her attention away from the sleeping child. She looked up and saw Serenity and Michiru had come. "Hello," Amy greeted them. "Michiru I thought you weren't coming until later to work with Ariel."
"I'm not but Serenity and I need to talk to you," Michiru told her.
"Please sit down," Amy motioned to the two chairs in front of her desk.
"We won't disturb her will we," Serenity asked casting a worried glance toward Ariel.
"No we won't," Amy assured her. "She'll awaken from a nightmare before we wake her up." She turned to her friends, "So what can I do for you?"
"It's not what you can do for us, it's what we can do for you," Serenity replied.
"Nani," Amy asked in a puzzled voice.
"Michiru came to me today with a concern," Serenity told her. "Amy you're exhausted. You are the palace physician, you're a Senshi, Annika's mentor and you are the mother of a very traumatized child right now."
"And Greg isn't looking much better," Michiru added.
"We are tired," Amy admitted. "Ariel is taking up a lot of our time. We haven't had much time for us lately. I don't think either of us has gotten a decent night sleep for a couple of weeks now. Ariel is having nightmares every night."
"That's why we're here," Michiru said. "We think you and Greg should go off on a romantic weekend trip, just the two of you."
"I can't do that," Amy protested. "Ariel really needs me right now."
"I'll stay with her," Michiru offered. "Haruka told me she can take care of the twins by herself."
"I couldn't ask you to do that," Amy sighed. "She's not way she was when you stayed with her before."
"I'm aware of that," Michiru replied. "But the bottom line is you and Greg need some time for yourselves and I am the only one whom Ariel will probably stay with. I am her mentor after all."
"Amy," Serenity reached over and took Amy's hand. "I don't want you to collapse. It isn't healthy for you to be working all the time and dealing with a traumatized child. It would do you good to take a weekend off with Greg and leave Ariel with Michiru."
"How can I go off and leave her," Amy asked. "I'd be worrying about her the entire time."
"Everyone worries about their children when they go away," Serenity pointed out. "Amy you need to get some rest. You're going to burn out if you keep going the way you are."
Amy sighed. She could see the reasoning. The last thing she wanted to do was to burn out to a point where she couldn't help her daughter. "I'll talk to Greg and see what he says," she relented. She turned to Michiru, "But taking care of Ariel isn't going to be easy."
"I never run away from a challenge," Michiru declared and Amy knew that was true.
Ariel began to whimper in her sleep. Amy was by her side in a flash. She gathered Ariel in her arms and began to rock her back and forth. "It's okay Darling. Mommy's here."
Serenity leaned over and whispered to Michiru. "She really needs to get away."
"I know," Michiru agreed. "Let's hope we've convinced her."
That evening everyone ate dinner with family only. After dinner Amy had gotten Ariel settled in front of the television with a child's video and then went to help Greg clean up the kitchen. She used this time to tell him what Michiru and Serenity had said.
"It sounds like they're ordering us to take a romantic weekend," Greg stated.
"I know," Amy sighed. "They both had a point but I can't see myself leaving my baby right now."
"Amy," Greg took his wife's shoulders and turned her towards him. "I understand how you are feeling right now. I don't want to go off and leave Ariel for even a day but Serenity and Michiru are right. I can tell by looking at you that you are getting close to burn out. If that happens you aren't going to be any good to Ariel. Being cooped up with work and with a traumatized child isn't healthy. To be honest I have been worrying about your health. All this is taking its toll on you too. I think a weekend away with just the two of us would do us both a world of good."
"I'll be worrying about Ariel the whole time," Amy pointed out.
"So will I but she is in good hands," Greg admitted. "Knowing that Michiru will be taking care of her will put my mind at ease."
Amy thought for a moment and then sighed. "I'll go and contact Michiru," she said. "Then we need to tell Ariel."
A few minutes later Michiru arrived. "Why don't you let me talk to Ariel for a moment," she suggested. Amy nodded her head. Michiru went into the living room where Ariel was sitting on the couch watching the video Amy had put on for her. "Hi Ariel," Michiru gently greeted the child.
"Hi Aunt Michiru," Ariel replied. Michiru went over to the couch and sat down next to her. Ariel was immediately on her lap, her thumb in her mouth and one little hand clutching Michiru's blouse. Michiru wrapped her arms tightly around the child and felt as Ariel snuggled into her arms.
"Ariel," Michiru began. "Would you be okay if I stayed with you for a couple of nights while Mommy and Daddy went away for a weekend?"
Ariel snapped up suddenly. Her eyes grew even more fearful then they had been the last couple of weeks. "I don't want Mommy to go away," she wailed as tears rolled down her face.
"I know Sweetie," Michiru soothed as she rubbed her back. "But Mommy is very tired and needs to take a little break for a couple of days. I told her that she and Daddy should go on a little trip this weekend and that I would come and stay here with you." Ariel began to cry pitifully. Upon hearing her daughter's cries Amy immediately came into the living room. Ariel wriggled out of Michiru's arms and was in Amy's in flash.
"Mommy don't go anywhere," she howled. "I want you to stay here."
Amy looked helplessly at Michiru and Greg. "I can't leave her," she said. "She needs me right now. I have to stay with her."
"Amy," Greg stated. "You are going to burn out if you don't take a break." Greg reached over and took Ariel out of Amy's arms. He sat down and settled Ariel onto his lap. Ariel stuck her thumb back in her mouth and clutched Greg's shirt. "Ariel," Greg began. "Mommy and I will only be gone for two nights. That is all. Even mommies get tired and need a rest. That is why she and I are going to go away for a couple of days. You love Aunt Michiru don't you?" Ariel nodded her head. "Then you know she will take excellent care of you. Or would you rather one of the other Senshi take care of you while we're gone?"
Ariel gazed at her father with large, teary eyes. "I don't want Mommy to burn out," she choked. Greg berated himself for forgetting that Ariel understood most adult conversations due to her high IQ. "I want Aunt Michiru to take care of me while you're gone."
"Good girl," Greg kissed his daughter. "And Mommy and I will bring a surprise back for you." Ariel nodded her head. She looked up at Amy and held out her arms. Amy picked her up and held her close.
"I'll miss you Mommy," Ariel sobbed.
"I know Baby," Amy replied. "I'll miss you too but you'll be in excellent hands." She turned to Michiru. "I'm going to leave some things for you so that you can work with her some. I'm not asking you to take over as therapist but there are a few little things I do with her here at home to help her out. It's pretty simple and it helps her out in the evenings."
"Just relax Amy," Michiru soothed. "We've all dealt with traumatized individuals. Remember how the queen was after the battle with Galaxia? She was traumatized for weeks afterwards. But all of us were gentle with her and supported her until she got better. And all of us dealt with emotionally crippled children after they battled Lord Sardonyx's minions. I can certainly handle a little girl for a weekend."
"I know you can," Amy sighed. She looked down at Ariel.
That Friday Amy and Greg were ready to go. Michiru had arrived at their quarters with a small suitcase. Everyone had agreed that it would be best if Ariel stayed in her quarters. She needed all the comfort and stability she could get right now.
Amy had a long list for Michiru. With Ariel being so traumatized Amy wanted to make sure all the bases were covered. "She is at least undressing and dressing herself again," Amy told her. "I don't have to do that for her anymore. But she is still regressed in many other ways. Ariel wants to be rocked in the rocking chair every night. She doesn't eat very much so you will need to coax her somewhat."
"Amy," Michiru held up her hand and took the list from her. "I can handle this. Slow down. I want you to take it easy this weekend. I'll look after Ariel. I know she has regressed tremendously but she will be fine this weekend."
"I suppose so," Amy sighed. She looked up as Greg walked into the room carrying Ariel in his arms. Amy went over to them. "Daddy and I are going to leave now. How about a big hug and kiss?" Ariel immediately reached over and went into Amy's arms. Ariel tightly wrapped her arms around her mother's neck and held on fiercely. Amy heard sniffles coming from the little girl. "You'll be okay Baby," Amy soothed. "We'll only be gone for a couple of nights. Aunt Michiru will take good care of you."
"Mommy," Ariel sobbed as she wrapped her arms even tighter around her mother's neck.
"Now Princess remember what we talked about," Greg reminded her.
"You'd better let me take her now," Michiru stated as she came over to them.
"You're right," Amy sighed. "Prolonging this is only going to make it worse." She kissed Ariel on the cheek and handed her to Michiru. Ariel stuck her thumb in her mouth and began to cry harder. Amy kissed her again. "Be a good girl and we'll be back on Sunday." Amy had a hard time listening to Ariel's squalls. She started thinking maybe she should stay home.
Recognizing the look of doubt on his wife's face Greg quickly steered her toward the door. "Come on," he assured her. "She'll be fine. He went back and kissed Ariel on the cheek. "Good-bye Princess. We'll be back in a couple of days." He led Amy out the door.
"Greg I am really not sure about this," Amy murmured. "She is so traumatized and is still suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. She really needs her mother right now."
"And her mother needs a good rest or she'll burn out," Greg reminded her. "I hate leaving her too but she is in excellent hands."
"I guess you're right," Amy sighed. She picked up her bag and took Greg's arm.
"Now I want you to try and enjoy this weekend," Greg told her as the two of them walked down the stairs toward the palace entrance. "It's been a long time since just the two of us went away. Michiru was generous enough to offer to look Ariel so we have nothing to worry about."
"Very well," Amy forced a smile on her worried face. Together she and Greg headed off to enjoy a romantic weekend together.
Ariel lay in Michiru's arms gasping for breath. She had begun to cry hysterically when her parents left. Michiru had carried her over to the couch and worked on calming the little girl down. Ariel was a little calmer now but was still crying pretty hard. Michiru lay the child down in her arms and began to rub her stomach in circular motions. Since it had worked on the twins when they were younger Michiru decided to try it on Ariel. It helped a little. Ariel stuck her thumb in her mouth and closed her eyes. Her free hand clutched Michiru's dress. "Good girl," Michiru soothed. "Just calm down and relax. You are going to be all right. I promise I will take good care of you."
"I miss Mommy already," Ariel whispered.
"I know you do," Michiru replied. "But you and I are going to have a good time. We are going to do something fun tomorrow."
Ariel opened her eyes and gazed at her mentor. Her large blue eyes grew even larger. "What are we doing," she asked.
"I'm taking you to the aquarium," Michiru told her. "Haruka is taking Faith to the race track so Hope will be coming with us. They are going to have a dolphin show this weekend and I thought you would like to see it."
"But what if some new enemy tries to take me," Ariel asked with a bit of panic in her voice.
"There is no enemy right now," Michiru assured her. "The ocean has been calm and Aunt Raye hasn't received any visions. There are also no defective time keys around so you won't get snatched out of time. You're going to spend the day with people who love you. If you want you can hold onto me the entire time."
"Okay," Ariel whispered with little enthusiasm. She snuggled up against Michiru and tried to be excited about tomorrow.
Michiru found that taking care of Ariel was much harder now then it had been before. They had dinner in the palace dining room that evening with everyone else. Ariel hardly ate three bites of her meal. When everyone had gathered into the living room, Ariel latched herself onto Michiru and refused to go and play. A couple of times she missed her mother and started crying. Michiru had to keep comforting and reassuring the child, telling her that Mommy would be back in a couple of days.
Later on after Michiru had given Ariel her bath she started getting her ready for bed. Michiru had to keep referring to the list Amy left for her. "I want Mommy to give me a kiss goodnight," Ariel choked as she stood there in her mint green summer pajamas and clutching her favorite teddy bear.
Michiru picked the little girl up and held her close. Ariel stuck her thumb in her mouth and rested her head on her mentor's shoulder. "I bet Mommy will give you a bunch of kisses when she gets home," Michiru told her. "I know you miss her right now but you're are going to be fine."
"Will you rock me in the rocking chair like Mommy does," Ariel asked in a hopeful voice.
"Mommy told me that she has to do that every night with you now," Michiru stated. "So of course I will." Michiru walked over to the rocking chair and sat down. With Ariel settled into her lap she began to rock gently. Ariel clutched Michiru's shirt with her little hand and sucked her thumb. Michiru continued rocking until Ariel fell asleep.
"Is she asleep," Moonbeam asked coming into the bedroom.
"Yes, poor thing," Michiru replied. "She misses her parents so much right now. Even though they will be back on Sunday she is just terrified."
"Well you were right to insist that Ms. Amy and Mr. Greg go away for a weekend," Moonbeam stated as he jumped on the bed. Michiru carefully tucked Ariel in and the blue kitten got himself settled beside her. "I was getting worried about those two. They were looking pretty worn out."
"Let's hope they will be refreshed when they return," Michiru sighed. She turned to Moonbeam. "Amy told me I could sleep in the pull out bed in the office but I may just take the extra bed in here. I'm told that nightmares are a nightly thing now."
"They are," Moonbeam replied.
"Then I think it would be best if I'm near her," Michiru decided. "I'll be here in a couple of hours. Goodnight."
"Goodnight," Moonbeam yawned as he closed his eyes.
Michiru left the door ajar and sat down on the couch. She no sooner got herself settled when there was a knock at the door. It was Lita. "I just wanted to check on my goddaughter," she told Michiru.
"She's asleep right now," Michiru replied. "How long she'll stay asleep is another story."
"At least you're here when her parents aren't," Lita pointed out. "You've got your hands full but you won't have to deal with anything like the last time you stayed with her."
"How can I forget that," Michiru laughed.
[Flashback: About One year ago. This is for you Rayvin Knight.]
Amy and Greg had gone out of town on business for a week. Ariel had come to stay with Haruka, Michiru and the twins. Michiru found out quickly that taking care of her own two children and a mischievous five-and-a-half-year-old genius was exhausting. Too make matters even more challenging Ariel had Luna P with her. When she had Luna P she got into all kinds of mischief.
One afternoon the Ariel was playing outside with Madelyn, Daisy and Maggie. After a while Lita came out and told the children it was time to come in. "Do we have to Mom," Daisy grumbled. "We're having fun."
"I know but tonight some important people are coming to have dinner with the royal family," Lita replied. "All of the Senshi and their families with the exception of Aunt Amy and Uncle Greg are to be there since they are out of town."
"It's going to be so boring," Madelyn sighed and the other children nodded in agreement.
"I'm sorry girls," Lita told them. "But this is important. So let's go in so you girls can clean up."
"I'm not going," Ariel flatly stated. "Why should I? My mommy and daddy aren't here."
"You're still their daughter and you will be going," Lita firmly told her goddaughter.
"I don't want to and I won't," Ariel shouted and she began to dribble Luna P. "Luna P henge!" Luna P turned into a cage that trapped Lita inside. The other children gasped in surprise.
"Ariel you let me out of here right now," Lita angrily shouted.
"I don't have to," Ariel replied. "You're not my mommy and I'm not a Senshi yet." With that she took off.
"Daisy you had better figured out a way to let me out of here," Lita angrily commanded.
Although Daisy wanted to get out of this important dinner she didn't want to get into trouble. So she went inside to find Rini and the queen.
In the meantime Ariel had taken off at top speed to the other side of the palace giggling at her trick. Her parents wouldn't be back for another few days and by then this will have all blown over. She knew that if Amy and Greg were in town she would be getting a spanking but they weren't there so she was safe. Unfortunately she forgot that once the children entered school their mentors were allowed to punish them as they saw fit.
So at first she wasn't worried when Michiru found her sitting by a tree. "I guess you thought you were being clever trapping Aunt Lita like that," Michiru dryly stated when she found Ariel.
"Mommy's not here so I can't get spanked," Ariel replied as Michiru took her by the arm.
"Oh don't count on that," Michiru told her and to Ariel's astonishment she got a sharp swat on her bottom. She promptly burst into tears. "Did you forget that once you enter school your mentor is allowed to punish you? And yes your parents gave me permission to spank you if it was necessary and I found this necessary."
"I forgot," Ariel howled as Michiru picked her up and carried her back inside.
"Obviously," Michiru muttered. "Well I hope it was worth it because you will be apologizing to Aunt Lita. After dinner you are going straight to bed. Maybe you will think twice before doing something like this while you're staying with me again."
Ariel did apologize to Lita and during the rest of her stay with Michiru and Haruka she had an early bedtime. Amy and Greg had been informed of what Ariel had done when they returned but had reasoned that Michiru had handled it appropriately. Needless to say they did have a very long talk with Ariel about her mischievous behavior.
[End Flashback]
Michiru and Lita chuckled as they remembered that incident. "You know I miss that side of her," Michiru sighed. "We just haven't seen it for a while. I would rather put up with some of her antics and see her happy then seeing her so traumatized now."
"I know, poor baby," Lita agreed. "She's my goddaughter so I feel the same way you do. However Amy is an excellent doctor. She'll have Ariel back to her old self one day."
"You're right," Michiru stated.
"I'm going to give her a kiss and then leave," Lita told her. "Daisy has had the sniffles all evening and I am wondering if it is because she went swimming and didn't dry her hair afterwards. I want to check on her before she goes to bed."
"Thank you for coming by," Michiru replied. She watched Lita disappear into Ariel's room and thought,
That night Michiru was awakened by a shrill scream. At first she forgot where she was and prepared to dash into the twins' room. But then she remembered she was in Ariel's room and she was the one who was screaming. Michiru scrambled out of bed and ran over to Ariel's bed. Ariel was thrashing around and screaming at the top of her lungs. Michiru scooped the frightened child up into her arms. "It's okay Ariel," she soothed. "It's only a dream."
"Mommy," Ariel screamed. "I want Mommy."
"Sweetie Mommy and Daddy are out of town, remember," Michiru gently reminded her. "I'm here and I'll take care of you." Ariel clutched Michiru and sobbed hysterically. Remembering what was on the list Michiru carried Ariel over to the rocking chair and sat down. She began to rock back and forth. The gentle motions seemed to work as Ariel calmed down. She took a gasping breath and leaned up against Michiru. She stuck her thumb in her mouth and clutched Michiru's nightgown.
Ariel thought. She snuggled even deeper into Michiru's arms.
"What were dreaming Ariel," Michiru asked. One of the things Amy had told her was to try and get Ariel to talk about her nightmares. Usually talking about them with someone she trusted helped Ariel.
"Lady Gemmei had me again," Ariel whispered. "She was hurting me with that device and her minions were beating up."
"That can't happen anymore Sweetie," Michiru assured her. "Daddy killed Lady Gemmei remember. She's gone and she will never come back."
"I know," Ariel choked. "But she still scares me."
"Well you're safe with me now," Michiru soothed. "No one can hurt you."
"Aunt Michiru," Ariel gazed up into her mentor's eyes. "May I sleep with you for the rest of the night?"
"Of course," Michiru replied. She carried her over to the bed and tucked the child in. Then she climbed in next to her.
"You don't mind," Ariel asked as Michiru wrapped her arms around her.
"How many times do you think we've had one or both of the twins in bed with us," Michiru asked. Ariel looked at her quizzically. "Many times. Both of them have had their share of nightmares and had to crawl into bed with us."
"Faith too," Ariel gasped. She couldn't imagine Faith being scared of anything.
"Faith too," Michiru replied. "But don't tell anyone. Faith would die if anyone outside the family knew that."
"I won't," Ariel promised. She snuggled up against Michiru and stuck her thumb in her mouth. Eventually the two of them went to sleep.
The next day as promised Michiru took Ariel and Hope to the aquarium. Ariel clutched Michiru's hand, refusing to let go. Hope, although still a little shaky from their adventure through time herself, was at one of her favorite places so she ventured out looking excitedly at everything. Michiru tried coaxing Ariel to go with Hope but the child refused. She just sucked her thumb and held tightly onto Michiru.
"I want front row for the dolphin show Michiru-mama," Hope squealed in excitement as they got to the show area.
"That's the splash area Hope," Michiru reminded her. "We'll get soaked."
"But it's hot out," Hope whined and it was true. It was hot. Michiru had wanted to be sure that the girls would be comfortable so she had them both wear sundresses and tied Hope's blue curls up into a ponytail.
"I know it's hot but it gets cold in the exhibition areas because of the air conditioning," Michiru pointed out. "I don't want either of you to get colds."
"Can we at least go and see the dolphins after the show," Hope asked.
"Of course," Michiru replied and that seemed to satisfy Hope. The three found a row away from the splash area and sat down. Ariel scrambled up onto Michiru's lap and took a hold of her dress in her little fist. With her thumb in her mouth she gazed with frightened eyes all around her. "Are you okay," Michiru asked in concern. Ariel nodded her head. She looked fearfully at the people as if expecting one of them to snatch her up. Michiru and Hope enjoyed the dolphin show immensely but Ariel was too busy worrying about being taken.
After the show as promised Michiru took Hope and Ariel to see the dolphins. Hope was delighted when the trainer asked her if she wanted to feed the dolphins. Seeing that Hope was busy Michiru focused her attention on Ariel. "Ariel," she began as she knelt down in front of the traumatized child. "I told you that no one would take you. Now do you trust me?"
"Yes," Ariel whispered.
"Then believe me when I say that you are perfectly safe," Michiru pleaded. "I want you to have a good time. That's why I brought you here."
"I know," Ariel replied. "But I really want Mommy."
"You'll see her tomorrow," Michiru assured her. "And remember she and Daddy were going to bring you a surprise." She led Ariel over to a dolphin that was near the edge of the pool. She put her hand in and stroked the dolphin. The dolphin chattered contently. "How about you petting it," Michiru asked Ariel. "They're very gentle." Ariel hesitated for a moment and then timidly reached out and stroked the dolphin's nose. It continued to chatter contently. Ariel immediately took to it and continued to stroke it.
Suddenly Hope gave a scream. Michiru and Ariel looked and saw that she had fallen into the water. "Oh honestly Hope," Michiru sighed in exasperation. She went over to deal with her wet child. Ariel turned back to the dolphin and continued to stroke it. It chattered away at her.
"I've been scared," Ariel admitted to the dolphin. "Some bad things have happened to me and Mommy says I'm traumatized." The dolphin squeaked as if it understood. "You understand me," Ariel asked in surprise. The dolphin chattered again. "You do understand me," Ariel gasped. The dolphin jumped up a bit and nuzzled its nose against Ariel's cheek. For the first time in weeks a hint of a smile appeared on Ariel's little face. Unfortunately no one saw it except the dolphin.
"Come on Ariel," an exasperated Michiru came over with her soaked daughter. "We need to get back to the palace."
Ariel sighed and turned back to the dolphin. "I'll see you later," she told him. "Maybe I can get Mommy to bring me here." The dolphin chattered again and watched as Ariel walked away with Michiru and Hope.
That night after dinner everyone gathered into the palace living room. Ariel again parked herself on Michiru's lap with her thumb in her mouth and watched as the other children played. She was so glad her parents were coming back tomorrow. She really wanted her mother right now. "Don't you want to play with the other children," Michiru gently asked. Ariel only shook her head. Michiru sighed and stroked Ariel's short blue hair. Would Ariel ever want to play again?
"How are things going," Serenity asked as she sat down next to them.
"I have to commend Amy for pulling the 24-7 with this," Michiru admitted. She smiled gently down at Ariel. "But we're doing fine. I think we had a good time today didn't we?" Ariel nodded her head.
"Well Amy will be glad that you convinced Ariel to leave the palace," Serenity stated as she stroked Ariel's cheek. "She hasn't wanted to at all."
"Then maybe Amy will be able to take her out more," Michiru exclaimed. She looked into Ariel's eyes. "It isn't healthy to stay inside all the time."
"Aunt Michiru can we go back to my quarters now," Ariel softly asked. "I'm tired."
"Of course," Michiru replied remembering that Ariel had earlier bedtimes for now because she was so emotionally exhausted. She stood up with Ariel in her arms and quietly bade everyone goodnight. She then carried Ariel back to Mercury's quarters.
"Aunt Michiru I want Mommy," Ariel whimpered as tears began to fall down her face again.
"I know Sweetie but she'll be back tomorrow," Michiru assured her. "Just get through tonight and you'll see her tomorrow." She felt sorry for the little girl. Ariel had been through way too much in these last couple of months. It was too much for anyone, much less a little girl to go through. However like the other Senshi, Michiru had a great deal of confidence in Amy. She would not give up until Ariel had gotten through the trauma.
"Aunt Michiru can I sleep with you again tonight," Ariel suddenly asked. "I'll feel safer."
"Of course," Michiru replied.
The next day Michiru followed some of the notes that Amy had left and had Madelyn come and play with Ariel for a while. It was to help Ariel pull away from her parents and play with one of the other children. It also gave Madelyn a sense of importance because she was helping her best friend. Annika, Hope and Maggie would sometimes come and play with Ariel too since they were quiet and could be trusted not to upset her too much. Ariel pulled away from Michiru and played a quiet game with Madelyn. This gave Michiru an opportunity to work on a painting since she hadn't been able too all weekend.
The door to the Mercury quarters opened and Amy came walking in. "Hello everyone," she called.
"Mommy," Ariel squealed as she leapt into her mother's arms. She wrapped her legs around her mother's waist and held on tight.
"Hi Darling," Amy showered Ariel's face with kisses.
"Welcome back," Michiru greeted her. She looked Amy over. She looked so much more rested then she did before the weekend. "You look a lot better."
Amy sighed and gazed down at Ariel who was resting her head on her shoulder with her thumb in her mouth. "You were right," she admitted. "We needed to get away for a weekend. I worried about Ariel but I knew she was in good hands. Did she do okay?"
"She was fine," Michiru assured her. "She missed you and clung to me the entire weekend but she wasn't any worse then she has been. I took her to the aquarium yesterday."
"You convinced her to leave the palace," Amy exclaimed impressed. "How did you do that? She's been kicking up a fuss about that."
"I assured her that she would be fine," Michiru replied. "Maybe now you can start taking her out as part of her therapy."
"Well we certainly will," Amy replied as she kissed Ariel's head.
Greg came walking in with the suitcases. "Hi," he called out.
"Daddy," Ariel cried out. Amy handed Ariel over to Greg.
"Hi Princess," Greg kissed his daughter. "See you survived a weekend without us."
"But I don't want you to go again," Ariel flatly stated.
"We won't for a while," Amy assured her. She dug around in one of the suitcases and pulled out a bag. "Daddy and I got a present for you." Ariel took the bag from her mother and got down on the floor. She opened it and saw it was a blue teddy bear.
"Thank you Mommy and Daddy," Ariel cried as she hugged it close to her. She showed it to Michiru. "Look Aunt Michiru."
"I can see," Michiru laughed. She gently lifted Ariel's chin toward her. "We look quite happy right now."
"Because Mommy and Daddy are home," Ariel replied. She wrapped her arm around Amy's leg.
"Michiru we can't thank you enough," Amy told her as she picked Ariel back up. "Greg and I did need a break and I don't think Ariel would have stayed willingly with anyone other then you right now. With the circumstances being what they are she needs all the security she can get right now."
"I'm happy to help," Michiru replied. "I can take care of her anytime."
A couple of days later Michiru went to Amy's office to work with Ariel. Since she was an artist she did art therapy with Ariel. She found Amy at her desk with Ariel latched onto her lap. "Michiru," Amy greeted her. "We're glad to see you." She looked down at Ariel. "Aren't we?" Ariel nodded her head. Amy looked up at Michiru again. "Ariel has something she wants to say to you." She looked back at Ariel. "What do you want to tell her?"
Ariel took her thumb out of her mouth. "Thank you for taking good care of me this weekend," she whispered.
"You are more then welcome Ariel," Michiru replied. She reached down and picked Ariel up. "I'm your mentor and I love you very much."
"I love you too," Ariel softly replied.
Michiru smiled at the little girl. "Now how about we do some art together," she asked. "Then Mommy can see to her other appointments."
"I'll see you in a little while Baby," Amy kissed Ariel's head.
"Bye Mommy," Ariel whispered. Michiru smiled and carried Ariel off to the room where they did art therapy together. Like Amy she didn't care how long it took. She would work with Ariel until she was back to old self again.
End of Part Three
Review please.
My site has moved to a new server. Come and visit it at http://www.craiger.dns2go.com/chibiscouts/index.html
E-mail me at AngelRaye2@aol.com
I have a note for all of the artists who have done work on my site. Please send me your e-mail address or website address if either has changed since you sent me your pictures. Since we have moved to a new server I would like everything to be updated. Thank you.
Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon. With the exception of Rini I own the Chibi Senshi.
Bonds
Part Three: Ariel and Michiru
By
Angel Raye
About a month after Ariel's birth...
Amy sat on the couch with Ariel in her arms. She had just finished feeding her and now was just enjoying the time they could spend together. Everyone rejoiced in the birth of Ariel because now all of the Chibi Senshi had arrived. Rini was the only one who was a Senshi now and it would be at least another six years before the others were awakened but Ariel's arrival had assured everyone that the clouded memories of young visitors in the twentieth century was not a dream.
There was a knock at the door and Amy called for whomever it was to come in. She was pleased to see that it was Michiru. She had something to discuss with her. "Come in Michiru," Amy greeted her. "I am so glad you stopped by."
"I know you wanted to talk with me," Michiru replied as she sat down on the couch. She smiled at little Ariel. "Kawaii."
"Would you like to hold her," Amy asked.
"I would," Michiru replied. Amy placed the infant in her arms. Michiru smiled down at the tiny bundle in her arms. "She looks just like you."
"I know," Amy laughed. "My baby pictures look just like her."
"Amy," Michiru began. "I know I am the only one left to mentor your child. I hope you are okay with this."
"Michiru I think if Ariel had been the first one born instead of the last one I still would have asked you," Amy replied. "At first when the mentors were being chosen I felt like it was unfair because my child was last and she would get who was left where Rini was first and Serenity got to choose from everyone. But as the Senshi got chosen I knew they were meant to be with the children they were chosen for. I feel that I was meant to be Annika's mentor. I know that you are left because you are meant to be with my Ariel. I can't think of anyone I would rather have to be her mentor."
"I am so glad to hear that," Michiru stated with a breath of relief. "And I promise I will always be there for her."
"And that makes me happy," Amy said. "Because I know that she will be in good hands."
Michiru smiled down at the baby in her arms. "I promise that you and I will be very close."
A few days later Amy was putting the little dress for the bonding ceremonies on Ariel. Everyone had a strong feeling of nostalgia because this would be the last time the dress would be worn for a long time. After today's ceremony the dress would be put away into storage until the next generation of Senshi came along.
"How are we doing," Greg asked as he came into the room.
"We're just about ready," Amy replied. She fastened the little button and then picked Ariel up. "There you go. Don't you look pretty?" Ariel gazed up at her mother with her dark blue eyes, exactly like Amy's.
"I must say I am a lucky man," Greg declared. "I have got the prettiest wife and a beautiful daughter."
"Oh you," Amy laughed as she blushed. She pecked a kiss on Greg's cheek. "Shall we go?"
"We shall," Greg stated as he escorted his wife to the door.
"Gloria watch out for that," Venus shrieked as her almost three year old bumped into a table. There were children all over the place. Madelyn had just recently learned to walk and was toddling around. Saturn was keeping a sharp eye on her. Annika was in her mother's arms with her thumb in her mouth.
"Is the guest of honor here," Serenity asked as she carefully placed the silver crystal casing down.
"Right here," Mercury replied as she brought Ariel forward. Neptune came over and took the infant from Mercury's arms. Ariel fussed a little bit at being moved to another set of arms but settled back down quickly.
"We are ready to begin," Serenity announced.
"Girls get over here," Jupiter commanded to Daisy and Maggie who playing a rowdy game of chase. The two dashed over and stood quietly by their parents.
"This is a very special bonding ceremony," Serenity announced to everyone. "Not only because it is a few days before Christmas but because it will be the last bonding ceremony for this generation of Senshi. Luna if you will please."
"Of course," Luna replied and she leapt into the air. A henshin pen with the Mercury symbol appeared. Serenity handed it to Neptune who gently placed it on Ariel's chest.
"Neptune do you have your henshin pen out," Serenity asked.
"Yes your Majesty," Neptune replied as she held hers up.
"Then do you promise to be there for Ariel, guide her in her training and be there when her parents aren't available," Serenity asked.
"I promise," Neptune replied. Serenity held up the silver crystal. It began to glow, as did the two-henshin pens. White, blue and aqua light enveloped Neptune and Ariel for a moment and then it was gone.
"The bonding is complete," Serenity announced as she handed the Mercury henshin pen to Luna to put away until it was time for Chibi Mercury to be awakened. "You are now the official mentor of our future Chibi Mercury."
"And I will be the best one I can be," Neptune promised as she handed the now squalling Ariel back to Sailor Mercury.
Everyone knew she would.
Six years later...
It was after dinner in the palace and everyone had gathered into the living room to visit before the children's bedtimes. All of the children were playing with the exception of one. Ariel sat on her mother's lap, with her thumb in her mouth and one hand clutching Amy's blouse. Her eyes were full of trauma. She and Hope had been back for two weeks now after being lost in time. While Hope, although shaken up, was able to get back to her normal routine Ariel was in very bad shape. It didn't take an expert to see that. She was being home schooled and going through round the clock therapy. Fortunately it was August and the children were out of school for the month. Amy hoped to have Ariel back in school in September so that she could finish the third grade with her friends. Even though the children were out for summer break Amy continued with Ariel's schooling because she had lost so much while she was held captive and lost in time. Since it was the break Amy knew she could keep Ariel's lessons light.
[Author's note: I've mentioned this before but I'll say it again. The school year in Japan begins in April and they get a month off in the summer.]
Michiru was gazing at Amy and Greg. Both of them looked exhausted, especially Amy. Being everyone's doctor, Annika's mentor, a Sailor Senshi and having a traumatized child to deal with was beginning to wear on her. She and Greg needed a break. Michiru walked over to them and sat down next to Amy. She smiled down at Ariel. "Hi there Ariel," she gently greeted the little girl. She held out her arms. "How about sitting with me for a while?"
"Would you like to sit with Aunt Michiru," Amy asked Ariel. The little girl hesitated for a moment and then reached her thin arms out toward Michiru. Michiru stood up with Ariel in her arms. Amy gave her a smile of thanks. Michiru sat down in a chair and got Ariel settled into her lap. She felt a small hand clutch her shirt. She wrapped her arms around the little girl hoping the feeling will give her some comfort. She felt Ariel snuggling down into her arms. Michiru held Ariel and noted the differences. Before her ordeal with Lady Gemmei Ariel would sit on her lap and talk enthusiastically with her. She would feel very relaxed. Now Ariel just sat there, her eyes, haunted by trauma staring ahead and clutching Michiru's shirt. Her thumb would stay in her mouth and she was extremely tense. Michiru was worried about her. She wanted to do everything she could to help the child get better.
Michiru smiled gently and tilted Ariel's face up towards her and looked into the dark blue eyes. She pecked a kiss on the kawaii little face. "You know there is going to be an exhibition at the aquarium for a couple of weeks," she told her. "How about if you and I go to it one day? I think you'll like it." Ariel only shrugged her shoulders. "You like water shows don't you?"
"Yes," a barely audible whisper came out. "But I don't know if I can have fun."
"Why do you say that," Michiru asked.
"I don't want to leave the palace," Ariel replied. "No one can get me here."
"Oh Sweetie," Michiru pulled the child into a hug. "Lady Gemmei is gone and the defective time key has been fixed. You'll be fine." Ariel didn't reply. She just snuggled down in Michiru's arms and continued to stare ahead. Michiru stroked the short blue hair and held her close. Ariel continued to clutch her. Michiru thought. Michiru continued to think of ways she could help Ariel. After a while Amy came over.
"Thank you for letting her sit with you for a while," she said. "But I have to get her ready for bed now."
"Is there anything I can do to help," Michiru asked as Ariel went back into Amy's arms.
"Just holding her on your lap for a while helped me out enough," Amy replied. "She adores you and you are the only other person she feels safe with right now. Occasionally she will let Lita hold her too."
Michiru grabbed Amy's wrist. "I know you have a lot right now with Ariel's condition," she told her. "But please take care of yourself too."
"I will," Amy promised. "Thank you." Michiru watched as Amy and Greg left with Ariel.
she thought to herself.
That night it was Haruka's turn to get the twins ready for bed. So Michiru got out one of her shells and listened to the sound of the ocean. That always helped relax her. She imagined she was on the ocean with the waves surrounding her. An image of Ariel appeared. Not the traumatized Ariel but the child she was before Lady Gemmei took her. She was laughing and running around. "Come on Aunt Michiru," she called. "Come swim with me."
"Don't get lost without me," a voice called to her. Michiru snapped back to reality and saw Haruka sitting by her. "Don't leave me behind."
"Sorry," Michiru said as she put her shell down.
"You seem preoccupied tonight," Haruka observed.
"I'm concerned about Amy," Michiru admitted. "Did you see how tired she looked this evening? Greg doesn't look much better. They're both working full time and taking care of a traumatized child. It isn't healthy for them. Those two need some time for just the two of them."
"It's going to be hard to convince them right now with the state Ariel is in," Haruka pointed out. "Amy is almost as protective as Raye is when it comes to her child and with Ariel being so traumatized she is even more protective."
"I agree," Michiru sighed. "But I have an idea."
The next day Amy was in her office. Since she was in between appointments she had Ariel in there with her. It was after lunch and Ariel was asleep on the small bed in the office. Amy had the bed put there a few years ago so that on nights when she suddenly had to go in and Greg wasn't around she could just bring Ariel. Usually Amy could call one of the other Senshi or nannies to come and stay with Ariel. Occasionally Amy would be called into the office really late or in the middle of the night and she would just bring Ariel with her rather then disturb someone.
Right now the bed was coming in useful because after lunch Ariel would be exhausted after a morning of therapy and schoolwork. Amy allotted a couple of hours for Ariel to rest or play after lunch. Usually Ariel went to sleep because she was so tired.
Amy got up and went over to the little bed. Ariel was sleeping with her thumb in her mouth and her arm wrapped around her favorite teddy bear. Amy drew the covers up to Ariel's chin and then kissed her on the cheek.
A movement at the door pulled her attention away from the sleeping child. She looked up and saw Serenity and Michiru had come. "Hello," Amy greeted them. "Michiru I thought you weren't coming until later to work with Ariel."
"I'm not but Serenity and I need to talk to you," Michiru told her.
"Please sit down," Amy motioned to the two chairs in front of her desk.
"We won't disturb her will we," Serenity asked casting a worried glance toward Ariel.
"No we won't," Amy assured her. "She'll awaken from a nightmare before we wake her up." She turned to her friends, "So what can I do for you?"
"It's not what you can do for us, it's what we can do for you," Serenity replied.
"Nani," Amy asked in a puzzled voice.
"Michiru came to me today with a concern," Serenity told her. "Amy you're exhausted. You are the palace physician, you're a Senshi, Annika's mentor and you are the mother of a very traumatized child right now."
"And Greg isn't looking much better," Michiru added.
"We are tired," Amy admitted. "Ariel is taking up a lot of our time. We haven't had much time for us lately. I don't think either of us has gotten a decent night sleep for a couple of weeks now. Ariel is having nightmares every night."
"That's why we're here," Michiru said. "We think you and Greg should go off on a romantic weekend trip, just the two of you."
"I can't do that," Amy protested. "Ariel really needs me right now."
"I'll stay with her," Michiru offered. "Haruka told me she can take care of the twins by herself."
"I couldn't ask you to do that," Amy sighed. "She's not way she was when you stayed with her before."
"I'm aware of that," Michiru replied. "But the bottom line is you and Greg need some time for yourselves and I am the only one whom Ariel will probably stay with. I am her mentor after all."
"Amy," Serenity reached over and took Amy's hand. "I don't want you to collapse. It isn't healthy for you to be working all the time and dealing with a traumatized child. It would do you good to take a weekend off with Greg and leave Ariel with Michiru."
"How can I go off and leave her," Amy asked. "I'd be worrying about her the entire time."
"Everyone worries about their children when they go away," Serenity pointed out. "Amy you need to get some rest. You're going to burn out if you keep going the way you are."
Amy sighed. She could see the reasoning. The last thing she wanted to do was to burn out to a point where she couldn't help her daughter. "I'll talk to Greg and see what he says," she relented. She turned to Michiru, "But taking care of Ariel isn't going to be easy."
"I never run away from a challenge," Michiru declared and Amy knew that was true.
Ariel began to whimper in her sleep. Amy was by her side in a flash. She gathered Ariel in her arms and began to rock her back and forth. "It's okay Darling. Mommy's here."
Serenity leaned over and whispered to Michiru. "She really needs to get away."
"I know," Michiru agreed. "Let's hope we've convinced her."
That evening everyone ate dinner with family only. After dinner Amy had gotten Ariel settled in front of the television with a child's video and then went to help Greg clean up the kitchen. She used this time to tell him what Michiru and Serenity had said.
"It sounds like they're ordering us to take a romantic weekend," Greg stated.
"I know," Amy sighed. "They both had a point but I can't see myself leaving my baby right now."
"Amy," Greg took his wife's shoulders and turned her towards him. "I understand how you are feeling right now. I don't want to go off and leave Ariel for even a day but Serenity and Michiru are right. I can tell by looking at you that you are getting close to burn out. If that happens you aren't going to be any good to Ariel. Being cooped up with work and with a traumatized child isn't healthy. To be honest I have been worrying about your health. All this is taking its toll on you too. I think a weekend away with just the two of us would do us both a world of good."
"I'll be worrying about Ariel the whole time," Amy pointed out.
"So will I but she is in good hands," Greg admitted. "Knowing that Michiru will be taking care of her will put my mind at ease."
Amy thought for a moment and then sighed. "I'll go and contact Michiru," she said. "Then we need to tell Ariel."
A few minutes later Michiru arrived. "Why don't you let me talk to Ariel for a moment," she suggested. Amy nodded her head. Michiru went into the living room where Ariel was sitting on the couch watching the video Amy had put on for her. "Hi Ariel," Michiru gently greeted the child.
"Hi Aunt Michiru," Ariel replied. Michiru went over to the couch and sat down next to her. Ariel was immediately on her lap, her thumb in her mouth and one little hand clutching Michiru's blouse. Michiru wrapped her arms tightly around the child and felt as Ariel snuggled into her arms.
"Ariel," Michiru began. "Would you be okay if I stayed with you for a couple of nights while Mommy and Daddy went away for a weekend?"
Ariel snapped up suddenly. Her eyes grew even more fearful then they had been the last couple of weeks. "I don't want Mommy to go away," she wailed as tears rolled down her face.
"I know Sweetie," Michiru soothed as she rubbed her back. "But Mommy is very tired and needs to take a little break for a couple of days. I told her that she and Daddy should go on a little trip this weekend and that I would come and stay here with you." Ariel began to cry pitifully. Upon hearing her daughter's cries Amy immediately came into the living room. Ariel wriggled out of Michiru's arms and was in Amy's in flash.
"Mommy don't go anywhere," she howled. "I want you to stay here."
Amy looked helplessly at Michiru and Greg. "I can't leave her," she said. "She needs me right now. I have to stay with her."
"Amy," Greg stated. "You are going to burn out if you don't take a break." Greg reached over and took Ariel out of Amy's arms. He sat down and settled Ariel onto his lap. Ariel stuck her thumb back in her mouth and clutched Greg's shirt. "Ariel," Greg began. "Mommy and I will only be gone for two nights. That is all. Even mommies get tired and need a rest. That is why she and I are going to go away for a couple of days. You love Aunt Michiru don't you?" Ariel nodded her head. "Then you know she will take excellent care of you. Or would you rather one of the other Senshi take care of you while we're gone?"
Ariel gazed at her father with large, teary eyes. "I don't want Mommy to burn out," she choked. Greg berated himself for forgetting that Ariel understood most adult conversations due to her high IQ. "I want Aunt Michiru to take care of me while you're gone."
"Good girl," Greg kissed his daughter. "And Mommy and I will bring a surprise back for you." Ariel nodded her head. She looked up at Amy and held out her arms. Amy picked her up and held her close.
"I'll miss you Mommy," Ariel sobbed.
"I know Baby," Amy replied. "I'll miss you too but you'll be in excellent hands." She turned to Michiru. "I'm going to leave some things for you so that you can work with her some. I'm not asking you to take over as therapist but there are a few little things I do with her here at home to help her out. It's pretty simple and it helps her out in the evenings."
"Just relax Amy," Michiru soothed. "We've all dealt with traumatized individuals. Remember how the queen was after the battle with Galaxia? She was traumatized for weeks afterwards. But all of us were gentle with her and supported her until she got better. And all of us dealt with emotionally crippled children after they battled Lord Sardonyx's minions. I can certainly handle a little girl for a weekend."
"I know you can," Amy sighed. She looked down at Ariel.
That Friday Amy and Greg were ready to go. Michiru had arrived at their quarters with a small suitcase. Everyone had agreed that it would be best if Ariel stayed in her quarters. She needed all the comfort and stability she could get right now.
Amy had a long list for Michiru. With Ariel being so traumatized Amy wanted to make sure all the bases were covered. "She is at least undressing and dressing herself again," Amy told her. "I don't have to do that for her anymore. But she is still regressed in many other ways. Ariel wants to be rocked in the rocking chair every night. She doesn't eat very much so you will need to coax her somewhat."
"Amy," Michiru held up her hand and took the list from her. "I can handle this. Slow down. I want you to take it easy this weekend. I'll look after Ariel. I know she has regressed tremendously but she will be fine this weekend."
"I suppose so," Amy sighed. She looked up as Greg walked into the room carrying Ariel in his arms. Amy went over to them. "Daddy and I are going to leave now. How about a big hug and kiss?" Ariel immediately reached over and went into Amy's arms. Ariel tightly wrapped her arms around her mother's neck and held on fiercely. Amy heard sniffles coming from the little girl. "You'll be okay Baby," Amy soothed. "We'll only be gone for a couple of nights. Aunt Michiru will take good care of you."
"Mommy," Ariel sobbed as she wrapped her arms even tighter around her mother's neck.
"Now Princess remember what we talked about," Greg reminded her.
"You'd better let me take her now," Michiru stated as she came over to them.
"You're right," Amy sighed. "Prolonging this is only going to make it worse." She kissed Ariel on the cheek and handed her to Michiru. Ariel stuck her thumb in her mouth and began to cry harder. Amy kissed her again. "Be a good girl and we'll be back on Sunday." Amy had a hard time listening to Ariel's squalls. She started thinking maybe she should stay home.
Recognizing the look of doubt on his wife's face Greg quickly steered her toward the door. "Come on," he assured her. "She'll be fine. He went back and kissed Ariel on the cheek. "Good-bye Princess. We'll be back in a couple of days." He led Amy out the door.
"Greg I am really not sure about this," Amy murmured. "She is so traumatized and is still suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. She really needs her mother right now."
"And her mother needs a good rest or she'll burn out," Greg reminded her. "I hate leaving her too but she is in excellent hands."
"I guess you're right," Amy sighed. She picked up her bag and took Greg's arm.
"Now I want you to try and enjoy this weekend," Greg told her as the two of them walked down the stairs toward the palace entrance. "It's been a long time since just the two of us went away. Michiru was generous enough to offer to look Ariel so we have nothing to worry about."
"Very well," Amy forced a smile on her worried face. Together she and Greg headed off to enjoy a romantic weekend together.
Ariel lay in Michiru's arms gasping for breath. She had begun to cry hysterically when her parents left. Michiru had carried her over to the couch and worked on calming the little girl down. Ariel was a little calmer now but was still crying pretty hard. Michiru lay the child down in her arms and began to rub her stomach in circular motions. Since it had worked on the twins when they were younger Michiru decided to try it on Ariel. It helped a little. Ariel stuck her thumb in her mouth and closed her eyes. Her free hand clutched Michiru's dress. "Good girl," Michiru soothed. "Just calm down and relax. You are going to be all right. I promise I will take good care of you."
"I miss Mommy already," Ariel whispered.
"I know you do," Michiru replied. "But you and I are going to have a good time. We are going to do something fun tomorrow."
Ariel opened her eyes and gazed at her mentor. Her large blue eyes grew even larger. "What are we doing," she asked.
"I'm taking you to the aquarium," Michiru told her. "Haruka is taking Faith to the race track so Hope will be coming with us. They are going to have a dolphin show this weekend and I thought you would like to see it."
"But what if some new enemy tries to take me," Ariel asked with a bit of panic in her voice.
"There is no enemy right now," Michiru assured her. "The ocean has been calm and Aunt Raye hasn't received any visions. There are also no defective time keys around so you won't get snatched out of time. You're going to spend the day with people who love you. If you want you can hold onto me the entire time."
"Okay," Ariel whispered with little enthusiasm. She snuggled up against Michiru and tried to be excited about tomorrow.
Michiru found that taking care of Ariel was much harder now then it had been before. They had dinner in the palace dining room that evening with everyone else. Ariel hardly ate three bites of her meal. When everyone had gathered into the living room, Ariel latched herself onto Michiru and refused to go and play. A couple of times she missed her mother and started crying. Michiru had to keep comforting and reassuring the child, telling her that Mommy would be back in a couple of days.
Later on after Michiru had given Ariel her bath she started getting her ready for bed. Michiru had to keep referring to the list Amy left for her. "I want Mommy to give me a kiss goodnight," Ariel choked as she stood there in her mint green summer pajamas and clutching her favorite teddy bear.
Michiru picked the little girl up and held her close. Ariel stuck her thumb in her mouth and rested her head on her mentor's shoulder. "I bet Mommy will give you a bunch of kisses when she gets home," Michiru told her. "I know you miss her right now but you're are going to be fine."
"Will you rock me in the rocking chair like Mommy does," Ariel asked in a hopeful voice.
"Mommy told me that she has to do that every night with you now," Michiru stated. "So of course I will." Michiru walked over to the rocking chair and sat down. With Ariel settled into her lap she began to rock gently. Ariel clutched Michiru's shirt with her little hand and sucked her thumb. Michiru continued rocking until Ariel fell asleep.
"Is she asleep," Moonbeam asked coming into the bedroom.
"Yes, poor thing," Michiru replied. "She misses her parents so much right now. Even though they will be back on Sunday she is just terrified."
"Well you were right to insist that Ms. Amy and Mr. Greg go away for a weekend," Moonbeam stated as he jumped on the bed. Michiru carefully tucked Ariel in and the blue kitten got himself settled beside her. "I was getting worried about those two. They were looking pretty worn out."
"Let's hope they will be refreshed when they return," Michiru sighed. She turned to Moonbeam. "Amy told me I could sleep in the pull out bed in the office but I may just take the extra bed in here. I'm told that nightmares are a nightly thing now."
"They are," Moonbeam replied.
"Then I think it would be best if I'm near her," Michiru decided. "I'll be here in a couple of hours. Goodnight."
"Goodnight," Moonbeam yawned as he closed his eyes.
Michiru left the door ajar and sat down on the couch. She no sooner got herself settled when there was a knock at the door. It was Lita. "I just wanted to check on my goddaughter," she told Michiru.
"She's asleep right now," Michiru replied. "How long she'll stay asleep is another story."
"At least you're here when her parents aren't," Lita pointed out. "You've got your hands full but you won't have to deal with anything like the last time you stayed with her."
"How can I forget that," Michiru laughed.
[Flashback: About One year ago. This is for you Rayvin Knight.]
Amy and Greg had gone out of town on business for a week. Ariel had come to stay with Haruka, Michiru and the twins. Michiru found out quickly that taking care of her own two children and a mischievous five-and-a-half-year-old genius was exhausting. Too make matters even more challenging Ariel had Luna P with her. When she had Luna P she got into all kinds of mischief.
One afternoon the Ariel was playing outside with Madelyn, Daisy and Maggie. After a while Lita came out and told the children it was time to come in. "Do we have to Mom," Daisy grumbled. "We're having fun."
"I know but tonight some important people are coming to have dinner with the royal family," Lita replied. "All of the Senshi and their families with the exception of Aunt Amy and Uncle Greg are to be there since they are out of town."
"It's going to be so boring," Madelyn sighed and the other children nodded in agreement.
"I'm sorry girls," Lita told them. "But this is important. So let's go in so you girls can clean up."
"I'm not going," Ariel flatly stated. "Why should I? My mommy and daddy aren't here."
"You're still their daughter and you will be going," Lita firmly told her goddaughter.
"I don't want to and I won't," Ariel shouted and she began to dribble Luna P. "Luna P henge!" Luna P turned into a cage that trapped Lita inside. The other children gasped in surprise.
"Ariel you let me out of here right now," Lita angrily shouted.
"I don't have to," Ariel replied. "You're not my mommy and I'm not a Senshi yet." With that she took off.
"Daisy you had better figured out a way to let me out of here," Lita angrily commanded.
Although Daisy wanted to get out of this important dinner she didn't want to get into trouble. So she went inside to find Rini and the queen.
In the meantime Ariel had taken off at top speed to the other side of the palace giggling at her trick. Her parents wouldn't be back for another few days and by then this will have all blown over. She knew that if Amy and Greg were in town she would be getting a spanking but they weren't there so she was safe. Unfortunately she forgot that once the children entered school their mentors were allowed to punish them as they saw fit.
So at first she wasn't worried when Michiru found her sitting by a tree. "I guess you thought you were being clever trapping Aunt Lita like that," Michiru dryly stated when she found Ariel.
"Mommy's not here so I can't get spanked," Ariel replied as Michiru took her by the arm.
"Oh don't count on that," Michiru told her and to Ariel's astonishment she got a sharp swat on her bottom. She promptly burst into tears. "Did you forget that once you enter school your mentor is allowed to punish you? And yes your parents gave me permission to spank you if it was necessary and I found this necessary."
"I forgot," Ariel howled as Michiru picked her up and carried her back inside.
"Obviously," Michiru muttered. "Well I hope it was worth it because you will be apologizing to Aunt Lita. After dinner you are going straight to bed. Maybe you will think twice before doing something like this while you're staying with me again."
Ariel did apologize to Lita and during the rest of her stay with Michiru and Haruka she had an early bedtime. Amy and Greg had been informed of what Ariel had done when they returned but had reasoned that Michiru had handled it appropriately. Needless to say they did have a very long talk with Ariel about her mischievous behavior.
[End Flashback]
Michiru and Lita chuckled as they remembered that incident. "You know I miss that side of her," Michiru sighed. "We just haven't seen it for a while. I would rather put up with some of her antics and see her happy then seeing her so traumatized now."
"I know, poor baby," Lita agreed. "She's my goddaughter so I feel the same way you do. However Amy is an excellent doctor. She'll have Ariel back to her old self one day."
"You're right," Michiru stated.
"I'm going to give her a kiss and then leave," Lita told her. "Daisy has had the sniffles all evening and I am wondering if it is because she went swimming and didn't dry her hair afterwards. I want to check on her before she goes to bed."
"Thank you for coming by," Michiru replied. She watched Lita disappear into Ariel's room and thought,
That night Michiru was awakened by a shrill scream. At first she forgot where she was and prepared to dash into the twins' room. But then she remembered she was in Ariel's room and she was the one who was screaming. Michiru scrambled out of bed and ran over to Ariel's bed. Ariel was thrashing around and screaming at the top of her lungs. Michiru scooped the frightened child up into her arms. "It's okay Ariel," she soothed. "It's only a dream."
"Mommy," Ariel screamed. "I want Mommy."
"Sweetie Mommy and Daddy are out of town, remember," Michiru gently reminded her. "I'm here and I'll take care of you." Ariel clutched Michiru and sobbed hysterically. Remembering what was on the list Michiru carried Ariel over to the rocking chair and sat down. She began to rock back and forth. The gentle motions seemed to work as Ariel calmed down. She took a gasping breath and leaned up against Michiru. She stuck her thumb in her mouth and clutched Michiru's nightgown.
Ariel thought. She snuggled even deeper into Michiru's arms.
"What were dreaming Ariel," Michiru asked. One of the things Amy had told her was to try and get Ariel to talk about her nightmares. Usually talking about them with someone she trusted helped Ariel.
"Lady Gemmei had me again," Ariel whispered. "She was hurting me with that device and her minions were beating up."
"That can't happen anymore Sweetie," Michiru assured her. "Daddy killed Lady Gemmei remember. She's gone and she will never come back."
"I know," Ariel choked. "But she still scares me."
"Well you're safe with me now," Michiru soothed. "No one can hurt you."
"Aunt Michiru," Ariel gazed up into her mentor's eyes. "May I sleep with you for the rest of the night?"
"Of course," Michiru replied. She carried her over to the bed and tucked the child in. Then she climbed in next to her.
"You don't mind," Ariel asked as Michiru wrapped her arms around her.
"How many times do you think we've had one or both of the twins in bed with us," Michiru asked. Ariel looked at her quizzically. "Many times. Both of them have had their share of nightmares and had to crawl into bed with us."
"Faith too," Ariel gasped. She couldn't imagine Faith being scared of anything.
"Faith too," Michiru replied. "But don't tell anyone. Faith would die if anyone outside the family knew that."
"I won't," Ariel promised. She snuggled up against Michiru and stuck her thumb in her mouth. Eventually the two of them went to sleep.
The next day as promised Michiru took Ariel and Hope to the aquarium. Ariel clutched Michiru's hand, refusing to let go. Hope, although still a little shaky from their adventure through time herself, was at one of her favorite places so she ventured out looking excitedly at everything. Michiru tried coaxing Ariel to go with Hope but the child refused. She just sucked her thumb and held tightly onto Michiru.
"I want front row for the dolphin show Michiru-mama," Hope squealed in excitement as they got to the show area.
"That's the splash area Hope," Michiru reminded her. "We'll get soaked."
"But it's hot out," Hope whined and it was true. It was hot. Michiru had wanted to be sure that the girls would be comfortable so she had them both wear sundresses and tied Hope's blue curls up into a ponytail.
"I know it's hot but it gets cold in the exhibition areas because of the air conditioning," Michiru pointed out. "I don't want either of you to get colds."
"Can we at least go and see the dolphins after the show," Hope asked.
"Of course," Michiru replied and that seemed to satisfy Hope. The three found a row away from the splash area and sat down. Ariel scrambled up onto Michiru's lap and took a hold of her dress in her little fist. With her thumb in her mouth she gazed with frightened eyes all around her. "Are you okay," Michiru asked in concern. Ariel nodded her head. She looked fearfully at the people as if expecting one of them to snatch her up. Michiru and Hope enjoyed the dolphin show immensely but Ariel was too busy worrying about being taken.
After the show as promised Michiru took Hope and Ariel to see the dolphins. Hope was delighted when the trainer asked her if she wanted to feed the dolphins. Seeing that Hope was busy Michiru focused her attention on Ariel. "Ariel," she began as she knelt down in front of the traumatized child. "I told you that no one would take you. Now do you trust me?"
"Yes," Ariel whispered.
"Then believe me when I say that you are perfectly safe," Michiru pleaded. "I want you to have a good time. That's why I brought you here."
"I know," Ariel replied. "But I really want Mommy."
"You'll see her tomorrow," Michiru assured her. "And remember she and Daddy were going to bring you a surprise." She led Ariel over to a dolphin that was near the edge of the pool. She put her hand in and stroked the dolphin. The dolphin chattered contently. "How about you petting it," Michiru asked Ariel. "They're very gentle." Ariel hesitated for a moment and then timidly reached out and stroked the dolphin's nose. It continued to chatter contently. Ariel immediately took to it and continued to stroke it.
Suddenly Hope gave a scream. Michiru and Ariel looked and saw that she had fallen into the water. "Oh honestly Hope," Michiru sighed in exasperation. She went over to deal with her wet child. Ariel turned back to the dolphin and continued to stroke it. It chattered away at her.
"I've been scared," Ariel admitted to the dolphin. "Some bad things have happened to me and Mommy says I'm traumatized." The dolphin squeaked as if it understood. "You understand me," Ariel asked in surprise. The dolphin chattered again. "You do understand me," Ariel gasped. The dolphin jumped up a bit and nuzzled its nose against Ariel's cheek. For the first time in weeks a hint of a smile appeared on Ariel's little face. Unfortunately no one saw it except the dolphin.
"Come on Ariel," an exasperated Michiru came over with her soaked daughter. "We need to get back to the palace."
Ariel sighed and turned back to the dolphin. "I'll see you later," she told him. "Maybe I can get Mommy to bring me here." The dolphin chattered again and watched as Ariel walked away with Michiru and Hope.
That night after dinner everyone gathered into the palace living room. Ariel again parked herself on Michiru's lap with her thumb in her mouth and watched as the other children played. She was so glad her parents were coming back tomorrow. She really wanted her mother right now. "Don't you want to play with the other children," Michiru gently asked. Ariel only shook her head. Michiru sighed and stroked Ariel's short blue hair. Would Ariel ever want to play again?
"How are things going," Serenity asked as she sat down next to them.
"I have to commend Amy for pulling the 24-7 with this," Michiru admitted. She smiled gently down at Ariel. "But we're doing fine. I think we had a good time today didn't we?" Ariel nodded her head.
"Well Amy will be glad that you convinced Ariel to leave the palace," Serenity stated as she stroked Ariel's cheek. "She hasn't wanted to at all."
"Then maybe Amy will be able to take her out more," Michiru exclaimed. She looked into Ariel's eyes. "It isn't healthy to stay inside all the time."
"Aunt Michiru can we go back to my quarters now," Ariel softly asked. "I'm tired."
"Of course," Michiru replied remembering that Ariel had earlier bedtimes for now because she was so emotionally exhausted. She stood up with Ariel in her arms and quietly bade everyone goodnight. She then carried Ariel back to Mercury's quarters.
"Aunt Michiru I want Mommy," Ariel whimpered as tears began to fall down her face again.
"I know Sweetie but she'll be back tomorrow," Michiru assured her. "Just get through tonight and you'll see her tomorrow." She felt sorry for the little girl. Ariel had been through way too much in these last couple of months. It was too much for anyone, much less a little girl to go through. However like the other Senshi, Michiru had a great deal of confidence in Amy. She would not give up until Ariel had gotten through the trauma.
"Aunt Michiru can I sleep with you again tonight," Ariel suddenly asked. "I'll feel safer."
"Of course," Michiru replied.
The next day Michiru followed some of the notes that Amy had left and had Madelyn come and play with Ariel for a while. It was to help Ariel pull away from her parents and play with one of the other children. It also gave Madelyn a sense of importance because she was helping her best friend. Annika, Hope and Maggie would sometimes come and play with Ariel too since they were quiet and could be trusted not to upset her too much. Ariel pulled away from Michiru and played a quiet game with Madelyn. This gave Michiru an opportunity to work on a painting since she hadn't been able too all weekend.
The door to the Mercury quarters opened and Amy came walking in. "Hello everyone," she called.
"Mommy," Ariel squealed as she leapt into her mother's arms. She wrapped her legs around her mother's waist and held on tight.
"Hi Darling," Amy showered Ariel's face with kisses.
"Welcome back," Michiru greeted her. She looked Amy over. She looked so much more rested then she did before the weekend. "You look a lot better."
Amy sighed and gazed down at Ariel who was resting her head on her shoulder with her thumb in her mouth. "You were right," she admitted. "We needed to get away for a weekend. I worried about Ariel but I knew she was in good hands. Did she do okay?"
"She was fine," Michiru assured her. "She missed you and clung to me the entire weekend but she wasn't any worse then she has been. I took her to the aquarium yesterday."
"You convinced her to leave the palace," Amy exclaimed impressed. "How did you do that? She's been kicking up a fuss about that."
"I assured her that she would be fine," Michiru replied. "Maybe now you can start taking her out as part of her therapy."
"Well we certainly will," Amy replied as she kissed Ariel's head.
Greg came walking in with the suitcases. "Hi," he called out.
"Daddy," Ariel cried out. Amy handed Ariel over to Greg.
"Hi Princess," Greg kissed his daughter. "See you survived a weekend without us."
"But I don't want you to go again," Ariel flatly stated.
"We won't for a while," Amy assured her. She dug around in one of the suitcases and pulled out a bag. "Daddy and I got a present for you." Ariel took the bag from her mother and got down on the floor. She opened it and saw it was a blue teddy bear.
"Thank you Mommy and Daddy," Ariel cried as she hugged it close to her. She showed it to Michiru. "Look Aunt Michiru."
"I can see," Michiru laughed. She gently lifted Ariel's chin toward her. "We look quite happy right now."
"Because Mommy and Daddy are home," Ariel replied. She wrapped her arm around Amy's leg.
"Michiru we can't thank you enough," Amy told her as she picked Ariel back up. "Greg and I did need a break and I don't think Ariel would have stayed willingly with anyone other then you right now. With the circumstances being what they are she needs all the security she can get right now."
"I'm happy to help," Michiru replied. "I can take care of her anytime."
A couple of days later Michiru went to Amy's office to work with Ariel. Since she was an artist she did art therapy with Ariel. She found Amy at her desk with Ariel latched onto her lap. "Michiru," Amy greeted her. "We're glad to see you." She looked down at Ariel. "Aren't we?" Ariel nodded her head. Amy looked up at Michiru again. "Ariel has something she wants to say to you." She looked back at Ariel. "What do you want to tell her?"
Ariel took her thumb out of her mouth. "Thank you for taking good care of me this weekend," she whispered.
"You are more then welcome Ariel," Michiru replied. She reached down and picked Ariel up. "I'm your mentor and I love you very much."
"I love you too," Ariel softly replied.
Michiru smiled at the little girl. "Now how about we do some art together," she asked. "Then Mommy can see to her other appointments."
"I'll see you in a little while Baby," Amy kissed Ariel's head.
"Bye Mommy," Ariel whispered. Michiru smiled and carried Ariel off to the room where they did art therapy together. Like Amy she didn't care how long it took. She would work with Ariel until she was back to old self again.
End of Part Three